Boandik resident knitting up a storm

As the calendar flipped to a New Year, most people find themselves jotting down resolutions about fitness, work-life balance, or healthier eating.

For Arvan Carthew (nee Chapman), a spirited resident at Boandik Lake Terrace in Mount Gambier, New Year’s resolutions are all about numbers – specifically, the number of beanies she can knit in a year.

At 88 years young, Arvan is a knitting enthusiast with an ambitious goal for 2025: to knit 250 beanies.

With her wool and needles always within arm’s reach, Arvan’s days are filled with the rhythmic click of knitting needles and the vibrant colours of wool transforming into cosy creations.

Arvan’s love affair with knitting began during her childhood, where at just four years of age she was taught by her mother and two older sisters.

During World War II, the Chapman household turned their passion into purpose, knitting socks to send to soldiers.

Wool was in limited supply during those years, and the family carefully exchanged ration coupons to gather enough for their projects.

“We made do with what we had,” Arvan said.

What started as a necessity became a lifelong passion and decades later knitting remains a daily fixture in Arvan’s life.

Her room at Boandik is a treasure trove of yarn, with every shade and texture imaginable neatly organised and ready for her next project.

Last year, she set herself the ambitious goal of knitting 234 beanies and surpassed it with ease.

For this year, she’s upped the ante to 250, confident her fingers won’t falter.

“I’ve always knitted,” she said. “It’s what I do.

“It’s something I can do anywhere, and it brings me so much joy.”

Indeed, Arvan’s knitting is not confined to the quiet corners of her room. Whether greeting visitors in the hallways or during a lively music performance, Arvan’s needles are always at work.

Her beanies have become a beloved feature of the community, bringing warmth and delight to the young children who visit their relatives.

“It’s the best feeling to see a child’s face light up when I give them a beanie,” she said. “I like to think of it as a little piece of comfort and care.

“It’s what I do when I have a spare moment, and I do have a few spare minutes at my age.

“I can’t imagine not doing it.”

Arvan’s dedication to her craft is inspiring, and her annual goals add a sense of purpose and excitement to her days.

“It’s not just about the numbers,” she said.

“It’s about keeping my hands busy and my mind sharp. Each beanie I finish is a small accomplishment that makes me proud.”

Over the years, her beanies have warmed the heads of countless people, from young children visiting relatives at Boandik to staff members sporting their favourite football team’s colours.

Arvan’s creations have even travelled far beyond the Limestone Coast, reaching communities in the remote Northern Territory and Aboriginal outstations, as well as local homeless shelters.

“It’s not just about knitting,” she said.

“It’s about helping people and making them smile. That’s what keeps me going.”

Her passion for the craft extends beyond her own projects. Arvan loves teaching younger generations how to knit, passing on the skills she learned as a child.

“It’s wonderful to see someone pick up needles for the first time,” she said.

“Once they get the hang of it, you can see how proud they are”.

With her knitting bag a constant companion, each week, Arvan also joins the Ladies’ Chat Group, a lively gathering where tea and laughter flow freely, and knitting needles click in unison.

“It’s one of the highlights of my week,” she said. “We share tips, admire each other’s work, and just enjoy each other’s company.”

As she embarks on her 2025 mission to knit 250 beanies, Arvan remains a shining example of how passion and determination can bring joy to oneself and others.

Her knitting needles are not just tools but a means of spreading warmth and love throughout the community. And for those lucky enough to receive one of her handmade treasures, it’s a reminder that simple acts of kindness can make the world a little brighter.