‘Christmas in July’ at Resthaven Mount Gambier

On Wednesday 8 July, Resthaven Mount Gambier held their annual ‘Christmas in July’ celebrations, with special guests, Board President, Mark Porter, and CEO, Darren Birbeck.

Mark is a regular visitor to the home, and Darren has also visited previously. However, it was Darren’s first visit since his appointment to the CEO role in June 2020.

It was also Darren’s first Resthaven Mount Gambier ‘Christmas in July’ experience – needless to say, he was not disappointed!

Manager, Belle Kerr, says, ‘Our Christmas in July event is always a lot of fun, with guests enjoying a traditional three-course meal, including turkey with all the trimmings, and pudding with brandy custard.’

‘Residents, staff and volunteers all work together to decorate the home with festive Christmas tinsel, lights, and baubles.’

‘This year, the festivities were held across the home in smaller groups, to allow for social distancing. However, this just gave us an excuse to decorate more areas.’

‘It’s so cold here in the South East in July, that it really could be like a Northern hemisphere Christmas!’

‘Mark and Darren were delighted to visit each area of the home to meet and speak with residents.’

‘It was a wonderful, festive event, and we look forward to welcoming Mark and Darren again next year.’

Resthaven Mount Gambier opened on 4 July, 2011, and it wasn’t long before the home started celebrating their annual ‘anniversary’ with a ‘Christmas in July’ feast. What a great way to celebrate a birthday!