By Alana Mitchelson
THE Cardinia Community Christmas lunch will make a comeback this year after all, following initial fears that the annual event could have had its last hurrah.
But the event committee plans to lodge a petition with Cardinia Shire Council to scrap the hall hire fee, which had not been charged in previous years.
Each year the volunteer-run luncheon provides a free feast and good company to disadvantaged residents in the region.
Last year was its biggest turnout yet with almost 200 people attending Pakenham Public Hall on Christmas Day.
Event co-ordinator Susan Johns was overwhelmed by the number of new faces at the lunch.
“As guests were leaving, one lady who was from Scotland made me to promise to do it again next year as she had already planned another trip to Australia because of the special day,“ she said.
“There were so many requests that we do it again as they had had such a wonderful experience.
“It (the lunch) has got to go on. We can’t not do it.”
Ms Johns said that, while there had been “many ups and downs“ this year, the committee succeeded in putting a smile on the faces of attendees, making it a happy Christmas for all.
“Even though it was a 35-degree day, we enjoyed a beautiful air-conditioned hall, decorated walls, excellent table displays, well prepared food, waiter service for all food and drinks, which turned into a fabulous day for those who braved the heat and humidity,” she said.
“There were especially many people from the Sudanese community who came along. We don’t make it a religious event; it’s all about just having lunch together on Christmas and giving, which is such a special thing.”
The group feasted on Christmas staples including beef, turkey, ham, potatoes and plum pudding.
Gifts were distributed to each attendee by Santa and Mrs Claus after lunch.
Ms Johns confirmed the committee had agreed to continue the event as long as enough funding and donations were received.
For more information or those who wish to volunteer their time towards planning this year’s Christmas lunch, contact Ms Johns at cardinia.christmas2000@y7mail.com.
The event’s major sponsors were Cardinia Shire Council, Pakenham Op Shop, O’Connor Meats, Pakenham Rotary, Baker’s Delight, Puffing Billy, Pakenham Library and Living and Learning.
