What an amazing event this was, a production worthy of an Oscar, by Foundation Boroondara and Hawthorn Rotary Club!

 

From the food preparers, cooks and servers, entertainers and their “roadies”, right down to the cleaner-uppers, and bus and car drivers, events went smoothly and the meal and entertainment were enjoyed by around 250 residents of Boroondara, from many community groups, some of whom are socially isolated.

 

MC Elida Brereton welcomed Mayor Coral Ross and Councillor Steve Hurd, and carols from Camberwell Girls Grammar Group got the afternoon off to a great start.  Traditional turkey and Xmas pudding were consumed with enthusiasm by all attendees, volunteers included, before Santa Claus made his welcome appearance, to hand out gifts all round.  Santa certainly charmed the ladies, young and old, as he skillfully worked the room.

 

Swinburne Rotaractors and schoolchildren were invaluable as waiters, and coffee was served by Starbucks volunteer staff. Their efficiency and enthusiasm was truly amazing.

 

Before closing, CEO Foundation Boroondara Suzie White, thanked the following

  • MC Elida Brereton, former Principal of Camberwell High School
  • Artists  - CAGGS Choir members, Sponsors – Starbucks
  • Second Bite and Camberwell Market donors
  • Rotarians who have made specific donations covering costs
  • City of Boroondara in particular for the Community Buses
  • Camberwell Girls Grammar School for the buses
  • Foundation Boroondara staff, Wayne and Helen Worlidge and Board Members of Foundation Boroondara
  • Rotarian volunteers and friends
  • Rosaleen Falkiner ( Our wonderful chef)
  • Camberwell High School for their generous support
  • A year 12 Camberwell High School student for his outstanding work on the sound and lighting
 

The inaugural Chairman of Foundation Boroondara, the late Ben Bodna  A.M. had a dream that our  community would become a caring community in which all groups understood and cared for each other within. This Christmas Lunch for the socially isolated was a significant step towards the realization of his dream. Our special  thanks go to Noel Halford and his wonderful team, and to Foundation Boroondara for sharing this activity with us. Noel is very happy with a great team effort, particularly from Di Gillies, Susie White ,  Pat Feehan and Denbigh Richards, who were outstanding.

 
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Photos of the lunch can be seen at https://picasaweb.google.com/106224275621582639712/BoroondaraXmas2013?authkey=Gv1sRgCKCzp4WozvvkHw