Four Gellibrand Christmas parties were held across three venues in Melbourne’s west this year, where clients, families and team members loved their chance to catch up and celebrate the year together.
I attended the lunchtime party at Melton Country Club where long-time Gellibrand supporter Ann McGowan and her helpers had spread the raffle table with prizes such as picnic hampers, books, teas, pamper packs, wine and toys. Client Wellbeing Manager Margaret Given was the raffle host, and she read out the winning tickets for happy prize recipients.
Earlier, client Tony had said he was hoping for a big win in the raffle but was just excited to be at the party.
“I count down the days to the Christmas party on my calendar every year,” he said.
There was a delicious spread of buffet food – including beef, chicken, and vegetarian options – along with Christmas chocolates on every table. It was client Bernadette’s first Gellibrand Christmas party, and she had been looking forward to the day.
“I love the decorations on the tables,” she said, pointing to the balloons. Like many team members, clients, families and kids, Bernadette took her turn getting a fun portrait taken in the photo booth. People could dress up in police hats, Mario Brothers costumes, whacky sunglasses and ties, and colourful Hawaiian-style leis.
On the subject of dress ups, many clients came in their favourite Christmas-themed outfits. Client Rory wore his red and white Christmas shirt and said he loved the party: “I enjoy it. It’s good to see everyone!”
He was also hoping to win a prize in the raffle, but all clients – and kids – went home with a special Gellibrand gift, as well as a full stomach. Client Derryn loved being at the party with her family and safely stored her raffle tickets in her Elvis Presley-adorned purse. She was also looking forward to Santa coming on the 25th of December.
“You better watch out, you better not cry … Santa Claus is coming to town,” she sang with a smile.
Thanks again to Ann McGowan for organising the raffle, everyone who donated prizes, team members who helped set up and run the parties, and all team members who provided supports on the day. Thanks also to everyone who came along and made the Christmas parties such a wonderful time of fun and celebration!
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