Volunteers make a welcome contribution

VOLUNTEERS at Heathcote Community House have been busy this year, culminating in a Christmas display on show during the festive season.

Throughout 2023, painting and construction works gave the house a face lift.

Sylvia Crewe started volunteering at the house in May, working in many areas, and especially utilising her craft skills.

“Before moving to Heathcote I was an event florist by trade and have worked in several major hotels,” said Ms Crewe.

“I love what I do and it’s great to be able to do something that others enjoy. I hope people will come along and have their photos taken with the nutcracker and other displays.

“Much of the Christmas display has been created with recycled and donated items.”

Ms Crewe’s parents have lived in the area for 40 years and she joined them earlier this year.

“I am really enjoying being at community house,” she said. “Everyone is accommodating, and I’ve met many new people.

“There have been a lot of compliments on the decorations and my goal is to extend the displays into the main street next year.

“I am very grateful to the crafty ladies’ group for their donations and HQV Bargains for the discount they gave us on the things we needed to buy.

“If I can be of any help to anyone wanting ideas for their decorations, I am happy to help.”

Charlie Bongailis moved to Heathcote three years ago from the Melbourne suburb of Macleod but had been regularly visiting with his wife Monica for 24 years.

“I enjoy living here,” he said. “It’s a great place.”

Mr Bongailis has been assisting with gardening, painting and general maintenance since 2022.

“I’ve made a lot of friends and it’s nice to have a chat with the different people who come to the house,” he said.

“I’m here two days a week and really like what I do.

“My favourite thing I’ve made is the picket fence at the entrance. I think it looks really welcoming.”

Volunteers are appreciated at the community house and anyone interested is welcome.

“Sylvia and Charlie, as well as many others, have done some marvellous things at Heathcote Community House,” said volunteer coordinator Mandy Shelley.

“We value all our volunteers for the time they put into helping us.”

Volunteers are needed in the garden, kitchen, front of house and for administration work and maintenance.

“In the New Year we are hoping more people will come along to offer their particular skills or learn some new ones,” Ms Shelley said.

“We are a friendly bunch and anyone interested will be made very welcome.”

If you would like to volunteer at the house, call 5433 2820 or drop in to 55 Hospital Street, weekdays between 9am and 3pm.