WATTLE Range communities are proving ’tis the season to be jolly as residents continue to spread the festive cheer in the lead-up to Chritstmas Day.
Around 40 people – including past and present Red Cross members – gathered at the Tantanoola Tiger Hotel last week in celebration of the 33rd annual Red Cross Christmas luncheon and fundraiser.
Organised by former Tantanoola Red Cross branch president Arvan Carthew and secretary Chris Clarke, the event was an opportunity to catch-up before the busy holiday season.
Tantanoola’s branch folded four years ago after 73 years of existence – however members decided to continue hosting and organising the end of year celebration.
Ms Carthew said it was great to see not only the Christmas spirit strong, but also the support for the humanitarian aid and community services charity.
“The afternoon provided a good opportunity for members and non-members to catch up and show their support for a good cause,” she said.
“It was wonderful to see everyone come together and donate wrapped parcels for the fundraising auction.
“There were even people who could not make it on the day who contacted us and wished us well, which was lovely.
“The Tantanoola Tiger put on a fantastic show – they decorated the pub and there was some great Christmas cheer.”
Meanwhile, Red Cross Limestone Coast vice patron Libby Furner praised the Tantanoola community for planning the event despite not long having a Red Cross branch.
After the lunch attendees delved into their pockets and took part in a “mystery parcel” fundraising auction.
The auction was led by Bruce Carthew and of the 77 parcels, the highest auctioned went for $36.
Zena Lea won the raffle while Delzie Holloway and Jacinta Carr claimed lucky door prizes.
The event raised $1105 for the Southend Red Cross branch, which was represented by eight members at the event.
Among those members was long-time volunteer Thelma Thomas, who has been involved with the charity service for over six decades.
Ms Thomas was the secretary of the now defunct Millicent Red Cross Branch and has since joined Southend.
Red Cross community programs senior manager Rosalie Pace and Red Cross regional manager David Walshaw also attended the event.
The Christmas party started 33 years ago as a luncheon in a private home before it was moved to the Millicent and District Community Club and the Tantanoola Tiger Hotel.
