Portarlington group makes hundreds of craft items for cancer patients

A LADIES’ craft group in Portarlington is encouraging newcomers to join them to help the community.

The group of about a dozen members calls itself “Craft Unlimited” and meets on Wednesdays from 1.30pm to 3.30pm at the Portarlington Senior Citizens Club.

Member Lyn O’Brien, a long-time Portarlington resident, said the group had been meeting for more than 20 years at various locations.

“The ladies are very community-minded, and if they aren’t making gifts for family or friends, they gladly create warm items for the needy in our region.

“This year they chose to support cancer sufferers who are outpatients at Geelong Hospital’s Andrew Love Cancer Clinic.

“More than 200 beanies, berets, knee rugs, socks, fingerless mittens and scarves have been created, to help keep them warm.

“Also, over 100 lavender bags, covered coat hangers, toys and brooches have been made to lift their spirits at this stressful time.”

Craft Unlimited made the donated items across the past five months.

Ms O’Brien said the group made more than 100 red poppies last year for the town’s RSL branch to decorate the tree near the cenotaph.

Later in 2024, they made beanies to decorate Portarlington’s Christmas Beanie Tree, before being gifted to children in foster care.

“The previous year over 100 beanies were made for the homeless,” O’Brien said.

“And all the time, rugs are being made for Geelong Mums to distribute to needy children.

“Plus, teddy bears, beanies, knee rugs, slippers and fingerless mittens are made for disadvantaged children who holiday at Cottage by the Sea in Queenscliff.”

Geelong Mums provides emergency relief equipment – including cots and prams – for babies, children and their families in need.

Cottage by the Sea is a charity aiming to enhance the lives of more children by providing inspiration, fun and opportunity within a holiday environment.