Chase away the winter blues

AS winter approaches it’s cold outside, but there’s always a warm welcome at any number of the varied community groups in Heathcote.

Whatever your interest, there is something for everyone – or perhaps you could try something new.

Local death doula and volunteer Amanda Collins has been hosting a Community House morning tea each month since 2021.

Called Dying to Ask, it’s a conversation space for talking about death and dying.

“I’ve learned that superstitions and fears can stop people from discussing something that’s going to happen to us all,” Ms Collins said.

“But when we are ready to talk about it, it’s where the most interesting conversations happen.

“On June 10, we are going to explore Voluntary Assisted Dying.”

Bookings for Dying to Ask can be made at the community house by phoning 5433 2820.

For the literary minded, there are two writing groups and two poetry groups meeting regularly.

Palling’s Poetry and Musings meets on the first Sunday of the month at Palling Bros Brewery; PizzaBoxPoets of Heathcote 2025 meet on the third Sunday of the month at 121 High Street; the U3A Creative Writing Group meets at the Heathcote Winery on the first and third Wednesdays at 11am; and the Heathcote Writer’s Playgroup meets at the community house every Tuesday at 1pm.

U3A Heathcote offers many activities including a book club, gardening group, lunch group, movies, singing, Move it or Lose It and other special events throughout the year.

For more information on U3A activities contact Nancy Miller on 5433 3486.

Heathcote and District Car Club Inc meets on the second Tuesday of each month at 7.30pm at 5 McMahon Street, Heathcote.

The cost is $2 and guests of any age, male or female, with an interest in anything on wheels, are welcome.

Do you like music? The Heathcote Ukulele Group (H.U.G.) will be meeting at Bunbunarik Children’s Hub on Wednesdays from 6.30pm to 8pm until 18 June. A season ticket is $20 or a casual session $5.

Different Journeys Heathcote Carers Cuppa meets at Gaffney’s Bakery from 10.30am to 12.30pm on the third Monday of the month. Meet with other unpaid carers of autistic individuals and enjoy a free coffee and a chat.

The Australian Plants Society Heathcote meets on the second Tuesday of the month at the Mechanics Institute, 121 High Street. The group promotes, appreciates and preserves Australian native plants.

Anyone interested in crafts is welcome at Chatty Community Crafting, fortnightly at the community house from 10am to 2pm. Free morning tea and lunch is provided.

Participants can bring whatever crafts they are working on.

“It is a friendly group and there is always someone to offer advice and encouragement on your craft projects,” community house executive officer Vicki Forde said.

These are only some of the many community groups operating. Why not join one today?