Morning tea highlights what’s on offer locally

THOSE new to town or feeling a little lonely or in need of something to do discovered an array of activities and social opportunities at a morning tea run by volunteer organisation the South Gippsland Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) at Leongatha Memorial Hall on Wednesday.

As well as learning about the services the CAB provides, attendees chatted with representatives of community organisations, hearing what they have to offer.

CAB volunteer Judy Hetherington spoke of the importance of building community resilience, and addressing loneliness, particularly among older people, noting there have been quite a few people moving into the area, many of whom are looking to form connections locally.

Ensuring people are aware of what is on offer in Leongatha and surrounds and creating greater awareness of the CAB and its services encouraged Judy and other volunteers to organise the morning tea.

People who have been residents of Leongatha for years sometimes stumble upon the CAB, located in Michael Place opposite the Post Office, commenting, ‘I didn’t know this existed’.

“We’re like a gatekeeper for people, so we can point them in the right direction to access other services, such as those wanting to know who to contact for legal advice or aged care services,” Judy said.

Help is available at the CAB with basic tax returns between July and October, those wanting that assistance are urged to ring and make a booking.

Help with energy requirements is also available.

“Tourist information is a big part of what we offer, so there are lots of pamphlets, brochures and maps and local knowledge is always helpful, especially for people visiting from other areas,” Judy said.
Leongatha Senior Citizens Club, Treble F Singers, Leongatha Croquet Club, Leongatha Men’s Shed, U3A Prom Coast, Leongatha Probus Club, the South Gippsland Singers and Leongatha Community Garden were all represented at the morning tea.

Mary Shipway and Cheryl Lamb of Leongatha Community Garden displayed some of its produce and preserves made by vice president Cheryl.

Mary came to town about five years ago, soon joining the group, highlighting the value of Wednesday’s morning tea for recent arrivals in Leongatha and surrounds.

Alan and Hillie Hoy were on hand to chat about Leongatha Probus, the club providing a social outlet rather than being a fundraising organisation, arranging meals out, interesting guest speakers, day trips and more extended tours.

Hopefully, all groups involved in Wednesday’s event will gain new members through the exposure it provided.