Handmade beanies spread festive giving in Portarlington

MORE than 200 handmade beanies will make a difference to the lives of children this festive period as part of a heart-warming Portarlington Christmas initiative.

Known as the Beanie Tree, the annual display features beanies lovingly crocheted and knitted by local makers and carefully arranged into the shape of a Christmas tree.

The project is a collaboration between the creators and makers of the Bellarine Peninsula, the Portarlington Community Association, the Bellarine Women’s Network and Yarn Me Calm.

Now in its third year, the installation was originally started by Diane Kolomeitz, Andrea Clements and Karen Coulson as a way to bring extra Christmas spirit to the town.

Ms Kolomeitz said the tree, housed at Community Bank Bellarine, had become a much-anticipated feature of the festive season.

“People visiting the bank enjoy the tree and the message behind it, which is giving to others in need, each year,” she said.

“I believe people get hope and inspiration from it.”

While quite the spectacle in the bank, the tree also has a deeper purpose, with all the beanies to be donated to Hope in a Suitcase in January.

The charity supports children entering foster or out-of-home care by providing them with a suitcase of their own, filled with essential items.

Ms Kolomeitz said the initiative reflected the strength of community collaboration at Christmas time.

“In a time when the news is full of self-centred activity, this shows people are willing to work together in the service of others.”

Community members are encouraged to visit the branch and share in the festive spirit.

For more information on Hope in a Suitcase, head to hiasc.org.au