Christmas Day banquet caters for all

Thanks to the hard work of Victory Church volunteers, nobody in Gympie should spend Christmas day alone.

COMMUNITY: Diane Clift, Lyne Russell and Stephanie Vogler raise money for the Victory Church Christmas Day Community Banquet. Picture: Renee Albrecht

THANKS to the hard work of Victory Church volunteers, nobody in Gympie should spend Christmas day alone on Friday.

Whether doing it tough, new in town or feeling lonely, the organisers of Friday's Christmas Day Community Banquet would like to share the day with you.

Banquet co-ordinator Stephanie Vogler said the lunch, which begins at noon at the Civic Centre, will cater for 200 people, including 25 children, who have registered.

But just like an open invitation from an old friend, anyone is welcome to walk in on the day, she said.

Mrs Vogler said she would like to see as many people as possible get together, who would otherwise be spending Christmas alone.

"Christmas is a family time, I believe my family is my community," she said.

"I'm a part of this community and have been for 23 years."

Volunteers have worked through December, gift wrapping at Goldfields Plaza for a gold coin donation to raise money for the banquet, while many hands will be on deck on Friday  to help with set up and clean up.

Mrs Vogler said the generosity of the community, which included a $500 donation from the Union Church, meant the event would be a great celebration for everyone.

A cold lunch will be served with all the festive trimmings, while Christmas carols and children's activities will make up the entertainment.

A visit from the jolly fat man will mean children will not go without a gift on Christmas day.

Friday's banquet follows on from the Victory Church's successful Annual Free Food Giveaway at Victory Care on Saturday, which helped thousands of people who struggle with costs at this time of year.

To register for the banquet contact Stephanie on 0447 030 307, or turn up on the day. Those with children under 12 are encouraged to register beforehand so children can receive a gift.