COMPANIONSHIP, a festive feast and plenty of Christmas cheer will be on the menu at this year’s Mount Gambier Community Christmas Day Lunch.
The volunteer-run event, now in its eighth year, aims to offer a truly special and memorable Christmas Day for community members who are homeless, in need or who would otherwise be alone at this time of year.
Event coordinator Liz Rymill said Christmas can be a lonely or challenging time for some people in the region.
“Not everyone has the means to celebrate the day or come together with loved ones – but we are hoping to put meaning and festive fun back into the lives of those who need it most,” Ms Rymill said.
For this year’s event, around 50 volunteers will join together to deliver a delicious lunch plus plenty of entertainment and festive goodwill to up to 170 guests.
Renowned chef Kirby Shearing will donate his time and skill in preparing a special meal which includes some of the region’s finest local produce, grown and harvested by South East farmers.
The event will also serve lunch guests a take-away meal for Boxing Day.
Businesses including Beachport Berkshires, Mayora Pork, Hogs and Hens, the Splendid Egg and local lamb producers have donated produce for the “shared table” style lunch.
In the afternoon, lunch guests are invited to the Oatmill Cinema for a free screening of The Man Who Invented Christmas courtesy of the Fulwood family and the Oatmill team in conjunction with the lunch committee.
“We are immensely grateful for the generosity and support received thus far from local businesses, community-minded organisations and individuals,” Ms Rymill said.
“This event is all about a community of helping hands, supporting those in need at this time of year.”
The team behind the lunch are still seeking an entertainment act on the day and invite local musicians, choir groups or singers who may have some time spare in the afternoon on Christmas Day to get in touch.
While volunteer positions have now been filled, the working group is keen to hear from people, businesses or organisations who may wish to make a small pledge to support the running of the not-for-profit event.
The event will run from noon to 4pm at Mount Gambier City Hall in the Main Corner complex on Christmas Day.
For further information or to book for lunch, contact Liz Rymill via email at mtgcommunitychristmaslunch@gmail.com or on 0401 854 638.
