Glanville residents warmed by special donation

By Shannon Colee

May 14, 2024

Good morning: Residents Judith Bush, Pat Hann, Patricia Rowe, Martin Priest, Rosemary Northover, William Hayes, Glanville Village’s leisure and lifestyle coordinator Erick Melad and Rich River Quilters’ Carol Martin and Marika Szendroe were glad to share the morning together. Photos: Aidan Briggs Photo by Aidan Briggs

Residents at Glanville Village will be extra cosy this winter after a bundle of quilts was made and donated by the Rich River Quilters.

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Quilters Marika Szendroe and Carol Martin stopped by the aged care home on Tuesday morning to say hello to the residents and to show them the special crafts.

Both women said giving back to the community through Rich River Quilters is essential.

“I moved here about 18 months ago, and I met people in the community by volunteering and being a sower and a knitter. It’s a good way to use your skills,” Mrs Szendroe said.

Crafty fun: Carol Martin and Marika Szendroe said it’s very special to be able to donate the quilts to Glanville Village. Photo by Aidan Briggs

“I mean, we don’t know those ladies and gentlemen, but they were really interested, and they could see the work and just the look on people’s faces when they’ve given something that someone’s spent time making is really nice.”

Most of the quilts given to Glanville Village were made using donated materials, which is a real help to the club.

“We are not constantly trying to fundraise to do these sorts of things, and people are happy to give it to us, and we’re happy to give our time. So we meet every Monday, and it’s a weekly thing. It’s a great feeling to be able to make things for people in need,” Mrs Szendroe said.

Talking quilts: Marika Szendroe and Carol Martin presented the quilts to the residents and talked them through some of the design elements they chose. Photo by Aidan Briggs

This year marks a special point for the Rich River Quilters, who will be celebrating 30 years in July.

Mrs Martin, who has been in the group for about 23 years, said the social aspect has made her so committed.

“Our group has about 40 members, and at least 20 people come each week. It’s nice because we become true friends. You hear about their families growing up, and you see what they’re making for their children and grandchildren,” she said.

“You share ideas and skills and expertise. Some of the older ladies are very knowledgeable in the more traditional designs, and others are more artistic, and it’s great to get both types.”