Knitting for a purpose in Torquay

A TALENTED group of residents from VMCH Star of the Sea Aged Care Residence in Torquay are putting their hands together to make a difference to various community groups in need.

More than 10 ladies continue to meet each Wednesday morning to knit for a purpose, with items like teddies, beanies, clothing, toys and more crafted for a special cause.

The group, which has been running for seven years at the local facility has assisted organisations including the Geelong’s Ukrainian Women’s Association in Geelong, Our Village and Hope in a Suitcase.

Lifestyle coordinator Andrea Irving said the local group are tight-knit and keen to make a difference.

 

“June, one of our residents and I have been here seven years, and there’s always been a bit of a knitting group, but it’s really more in the last few years that we started doing things for a cause.

“We usually fill the table here every Wednesday, support the nearby cafe and get a coffee while we knit to make it nice and social.

“We just love helping the community, particularly groups like Hope in a Suitcase who we are helping now. We are always trying to find something to do.

“Some of our ladies knit one line, some do a teddy. We are very inclusive; it’s just about being apart of it.”

Group member Patricia stressed its importance for her health.

 

“I’ve been doing it since I was eight years old from when my mother and sister taught me. I wouldn’t know my life without it to be honest.

“I’ve started a new project which I am super excited for. I can’t reveal it yet though, but I just love everything to do with knitting.”

The group recently had plenty of success at the Royal Geelong Show with many coming away with awards and commendations.

“There were multiple classifications that our ladies entered into including homecrafts which June came first in,” Ms Irving added.

“Elizabeth one of our other residents won first in her section overall which is a huge achievement.”

 

Star of the Sea volunteer Helena said the ladies were almost certain to enter again in 2026.

“The ladies are so motivated. They should be incredibly proud of what we they are doing.

“They’ve even taught me how to knit and I used to not be able to put two stitches together.

“Ultimately we hope to pass on the knowledge of these ladies to the next generation.”

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