Shepparton Villages staff organised the fete and residents put their cooking, baking, sewing and crafting skills into action. 

Among the stalls were quilts, vintage clothing, knick-knacks, doll and baby clothes, handbags, toys, books and plants. 

The food stalls had Devonshire tea, cakes and jams Tarcoola residents made from scratch. 

Shepparton Villages chief executive Kerri Rivett said the staff and independent living residents worked hard to make the day a success. 

“It was a massive effort on their part. We have little fetes all the time, but one of our residents had the idea of coming up with a bigger fete. It really empowered them, “she said. 

Ms Rivett said it was a great day for Shepparton Villages and also for the community. 

“It was really nice to see the community of Shepparton Villages pull together with such an event. Even though you’re unwell and even though you don’t have the mobility you had years ago, this is about enabling, this is about feeling worthwhile and giving back to the community,” she said. 

Kids were treated to photos with Santa, face painting and blackboard activities, while sausages, profiteroles, fruit form local orchardists and fairy floss made the occasion more like a big feast that a fete. 

Ms Rivett’s personal assistant Sally Clifton said the day was full of Christmas spirit. 

“It was magic. There were kids jumping on the spot prizes and little old ladies pushing them out of the way to get involved,” Ms Clifton said. 

“It was just really lovely. The residents were so excited. It brought everyone together.” 

The event raised about $11,000 towards the redevelopment of Tarcoola’s Hakea Lodge. 

By Rhiannon Tuffield - As published in the Shepparton News, Friday, December 5, 2014