Woorayl Lodge fete a stunning success

WHILE rain didn’t stay away for the whole of the annual Woorayl Lodge fete on Saturday, the event began in glorious sunshine and a big turnout of Lodge residents and Leongatha community members ensured it was a great success.

President of the Woorayl Lodge Auxiliary, Kaye Warren, was anxious when she woke in the early hours of Saturday morning to discover rain still falling, but was delighted how the day turned out, saying cake stall sales were at a record high, with the raffles also popular.

“I’m amazed with the support from the entire community; we haven’t got final figures in yet but we’re up to our expectations that we’ve had other years, which I’m amazed at,” Kaye said.

That is despite the rain that began to tumble well before the scheduled end of the fete.

The residents sold raffle tickets and their festive craft creations, with many spilling out of the lodge while the sun was shining, enjoying the uplifting sounds of the South Gippsland Shire Brass Band as it mixed Christmas numbers with others.

The Gatha Rock dancers provided colour and movement before they were washed off the dance floor.

Although Woorayl resident Judy Tyson joked while selling raffle tickets outside that, “We’re out of detention,” it’s clear the lodge is a much-loved home.

“We’re all happy here and well cared for,” Alma Williams said after buying some lavender bags at one of the fete stalls.

The positive vibe at Woorayl Lodge no doubt influences the many community members and organisations that pitch in to make the fete a fundraising success.

Leongatha’s three supermarkets all contributed to the cause, enabling hams to be auctioned along with ducks donated by the town’s Ryan family.

Leongatha Lions Club served up golden chips, members of the Woorayl Lodge Auxiliary, staff and others contributed delicious cakes, biscuits and other treats for sale, and enthusiastic volunteers manned the barbecue.

Eziway, salary packaging provider to Woorayl Lodge staff, jumped at the opportunity to be involved in the fete, sending a coffee van from Melbourne when Kaye was unable to find any local ones without existing engagements.

The company donated coffee and the barista services of sociable Bella, so that funds raised would go to the lodge and improvements for residents.

Kaye was delighted to see many of the lodge staff members come in on their day off to escort residents outside and ensure they enjoyed the occasion.

This scribe relished the Woorayl Lodge chef’s tasty Devonshire tea, also stocking up on relishes, jam, and Christmas cards, with the only complaint about the fete that it is held just once a year.