“I couldn’t have asked for more” volunteers spread the joy of Christmas
Meet your Gold Coast Christmas Day heroes - from those patrolling the beaches to feeding the needy. See the photos
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A NUN in her 80s, a politician, and local musicians were among an army of incredible volunteers squashing Christmas Day blues in their efforts to feed the less fortunate.
In its 15th year the Gold Coast Community Christmas Lunch played host to over 800 people at Labrador State School community hall with 130 smiling volunteers taking part.
Organiser Susie Longman said the lunch was about connecting with people on a human level during a period that can be tough for many.
“Christmas heightens whatever emotion is going on - it’s either a super happy time or a super sad time, it’s rarely in-between,” she said.
Sam O’Connor MP dressed up as Santa for the occasion, citing it as a really special day for the Gold Coast.
“Susie and I were getting emotional before - I’m just so thankful that this is in Labrador because there’s a lot of people around here that are doing it tough,” he said.
First year volunteer Byron Cracknell said he was overwhelmed, “the smiles and the love that you can feel is just awesome,” he said.
“I couldn’t have asked for more for my Christmas Day.”
Meanwhile, Gold Coast volunteer surf life saver Paul Revitt may be the city’s ultimate Christmas Day saint.
Not only did he give up his Christmas Day to patrol the beachfront at Burleigh, it was also his birthday.
He was among dedicated Surf Life Savers volunteering their time city wide to keep the Gold Coast’s locals and visitors safe in the water.
The birthday boy was pleased to see such great conditions on Sunday after heavy rain fell across the region just the night before.
“The beach is beautiful, we’ve got calm seas, good weather, and only light winds,” Mr Revitt said. “Just remember to swim between the flags.”
A mix of Gold Coasters, Aussie tourists, and even some international visitors hit the surf including Canadian Cassandra Banner, celebrating her first Christmas without snow.
Exchange students from the Czech Republic and Venezuela were also soaking up the Gold Coast sun this Christmas, as well as beachgoers from the UK and Brazil. For many – especially cricket lovers the celebrations will continue Boxing Day.
Young Robina sporting enthusiast Jed Robinson spent Christmas morning playing beach cricket with friends.
He planned to be cheering on Australia as they compete in the Boxing Day Test match, saying “hopefully” our boys can bring home a win.
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