Lunchtime events cook up community ties

HEATHCOTE Community Capacity Builders’ lunches and dinners are all about sharing.

Representatives from community organisations gather at Heathcote Bowling Club each month for a meal made by volunteers from locally grown produce.

Participants also speak briefly about their recent activities, achievements and issues.

Heathcote Community House executive officer Vicki Forde said the event started over six years ago.

“This month’s lunch showcased what HCCB is all about,” she said.

“People that didn’t know each other got to meet, and people that did know each other got to catch up.

“We provided people that do lots within their organisations, and the town, with an opportunity to sit down and be fed and not do anything except share their information.”

Ms Forde said there was a great mix of regulars, those who hadn’t been for a while, and newcomers.

“I overheard a couple of conversations after lunch and it was fantastic to see the collaborations that were happening,” she said.

“Everyone is always so passionate about what they do.”

Ms Forde also highlighted the role of catering volunteers in making the event a success.

“It’s a vital part of the event and if anybody is looking for hospitality experience, or a chance to give back to the community, then we would love to hear from them,” she said.

Amanda Collins represents several organisations at the lunch, including the Heathcote Ukulele Group, and the Pizzabox Poets.

“It’s a lovely chance to get together and hear about the progress of all the different community groups in town,” she said.

“We’re so lucky to have such a keen and friendly group of people who want to bring something special to Heathcote.

“The lunches are such a great opportunity to stay on top of everything that’s going on. I always come away surprised at how much is happening.”

Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, the events continued via video link.

“I think we initially cancelled the first one or two,” Ms Forde said.

“Then we did it on Zoom, people came and picked up meals, or provided their own meal, and we had around 15 to 20 people each time.”

The lunches still managed to be inclusive despite some regulars not having their own computers.

“We actually had a couple of organisations where people came and picked up a computer that we had logged into Zoom for them.

“Then they put it on the front seat of their car, and they drove home with it and were able to participate in the meeting,” she said.

Community organisations wishing to send a representative to the event and anyone wanting to become a catering volunteer should contact Heathcote Community House on 5433 2820.