Christmas time can be crazy. That mad rush to buy presents, food and drink, generally undertaken in heavy traffic, heat and humidity can fray nerves and shorten tempers.
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It’s no wonder that people claim that the true spirit of Christmas is dying. But to all those in doubt of what Christmas is about, I say, look no further than the Sapphire Coast.
Christmas is a time for giving and here in Merimbula giving is something we do best!
It’s not uncommon for our communities to rally in support of those in need every day of the year, but it has become particularly apparent during this holiday season.
There is no other way to describe the response by the community to a call out for donations to help those affected by the Merimbula Lake Holiday Park fire than heartwarming.
These people were made homeless and then within a few days they had more clothes and more furniture than before the fire. This is just incredible.
As Michelle Nitschki said: “These donations have illustrated why I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else.”
Christmas is a time to celebrate with family and friends.
It is a time of love and happiness and while not everyone has someone they can be with on this day, no one has to be alone thanks to the generosity and kindness of a group of locals.
For the fifth year in a row, all Bega Valley residents and visitors are invited to share in a three course meal at the Sapphire Coast Christmas Lunch.
The Lunch, which is growing every year, has now spilled over two venues, one in Merimbula and one in Eden.
Every single person who attends the lunch, which last year was more than 200 people, receives a gift, which has kindly been donated by members of the community.
“No one should be alone and everyone deserves a gift and to feel special on Christmas,” event organiser Janita Fernando said.
As another year draws to a close and the Merimbula News Weekly prepares to shut down until January 4, the journalist here want to thank the community.
We want to thank you for showing us the true meaning of Christmas and for reminding us that it’s not the landscape that makes the Sapphire Coast so special, is the people.
Here’s wishing you and your loved ones the merriest of Christmases and the happiest of new years! Melanie Leach
