Fine china topped with an array of delectable delights rung in the festive season at Cabanda Care’s retirement village in Rosewood.
The tea was baked and prepared in a communal kitchen by a small team of residents who also organised the event.
One of them was Joyce Rieck.
“Some of the tableware was more than 65 years old,” Joyce said.
“We spent a lot of time planning, then preparing sandwiches, cakes, slices and other finger food.
“There was tea and juice served with it and many people dressed in festive patterns and colours.”
Long standing member of the district Hazel Johnston was there and everyone was delighted to see her.
“Hazel was born and raised in the district,” Joyce said.
“She was married here too and this is where she raised her children.
“Hazel is also a staunch supporter of the Baptist church and many people’s favourite person.
“She is someone I call into when I’m feeling a bit low because she always boosts my spirits.”
Spencer and Wendy Yarrow have lived at the village for 17 months and the high tea was a way for the other residents to get to know them better.
“Most people at the high tea are residents of the village, except for one who is the daughter of a resident,” Joyce explained.
“There was a good turnout with 30 people filling the hall, chatting, laughing and filling up on delicious food.”
Something Joyce enforces is only helpers are to clear tables and wash up.
“I’ve found when someone begins to clear plates the other guests take it as a signal to wrap things up,” she said.
“That is one of the reasons we like them to stay seated chat and enjoy themselves.”
Cabanda Care is an important part of the Rosewood community.
It was built in the late 1970s by the people who lived around it.
The hard work paid off and today’s village has a reputation as being an excellent fit for the district.
Joyce told Moreton Border News she was astonished how few people knew the origins of Cabanda Care.
Supporters fundraised and through team work the retirement home was established.
By September 20, 1987, the first residents moved in and in October it was officially opened.
Back then it was called Rosewood Aged Peoples Home and it changed to Cabanda in May 1990.
