By Lorraine Peade

The Children’s Medical Research Institute (CMRI) Gerringong branch extends a heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended our Melbourne Cup Luncheon at the Gerroa Boat Fisherman’s Club. The day was filled with fashion, fun, food, and plenty of chances to pick a winner with raffles, sweeps, Lions Club lucky trifectas, and TAB bets. Special thanks to the staff at "The Fisho's" for their hard work and attention to detail.

Raffle Winners and Highlights

The raffle’s top prize, a $200 dining voucher at The Noble Gerringong, generously donated by CMRI member Deidre McLoughlin, was won by Janet Poppett of Gerringong. Many other attendees also took home raffle and lucky chair prizes, adding to the friendly and enjoyable atmosphere. All funds raised went to support vital research at CMRI.

Lorraine Jolley, Sue Reid, Lynne Rutledge & Janet Poppett

Carolyn Peaty of Unanderra was delighted to win the Merelyn Pearce wall hanging in the last Quilt & Craft Show raffle.

32nd and Final Quilt & Craft Show

Last weekend, CMRI Gerringong held its 32nd Quilt & Craft Show, featuring over 80 quilts and wall hangings that delighted members and visitors alike. The exhibition showcased the talents of quilters from Gerringong, Kiama, Shoalhaven, and the Illawarra. Members from the Kiama Quilters' Guild and the Wollongong branch of the Embroiderers' Guild also demonstrated their skills daily.

The CMRI Craft Stall, a favourite feature, displayed children’s clothes, teddy bears, Christmas decorations, and a wide array of handmade crafts. Dedicated life members Marg Weir, Mena Sharpe, Joyce Sharpe, Dawn Miller, and Edith Burgess, along with other members, worked diligently each Monday throughout the year to prepare for the show.

Carole Parsons, winner of Best Dressed Female with Kate Quinn

Community support has been invaluable to CMRI Gerringong, and the show’s success would not be possible without help from local businesses and organisations, including Gerringong IGA, Gerringong Lions, Gerringong RFS, Rotary Club of Gerringong, The Bugle, and Ray White Real Estate.

Karen Forsyth. Micheal Forsyth, Kay Forsyth and at back Sandra McCarthy and Dave Peade

Looking to the Future

The 2024 Quilt & Craft Show marks the final event to be organised by the current CMRI Gerringong Committee, making it a time for celebration and reflection. As CMRI Gerringong looks ahead, new fundraising possibilities will ensure that the legacy of 65 years of community-driven support continues.

Upcoming Events

- Christmas Cake Stall: Saturday, 7th December, from 8:30 am outside the pharmacy on Fern St. These homemade cakes make perfect holiday gifts.

- Bunnings BBQ: Sunday, 8th December at Shellharbour.

Sandra Bennetts, Michelle Longhurst, Veronica McGechen and Glenis Brown enjoying morning tea at the Quilt Show

Thank you again to our generous community for your support. We look forward to many more years of success and innovation in medical research fundraising.

Kay Beynon and Elaine Raper of Kiama