ELEVEN years ago, Max and Karen Davies opened the doors of their home on Christmas Day offering to share a meal, a conversation and extend the hand of friendship to those who faced the prospect of spending the day alone.
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Three strangers sat at their dining table that day, reinforcing for all of them that it is what you can give to another that makes all the difference in the life we share. The sign at their front door says it all - 'There's always room for one more".
Last year, they served Christmas lunch to more than 450 people in a super-sized festive feast on Town Beach as a part of their now annual Christmas on the Beach event.
The Port City Church's dynamic duo remain humble about their astonishing contribution to the local community over the last decade, attributing all of the event's success to the team of volunteers who offer a helping hand and an open heart to those in need.
This year, they are looking for 100-plus generous souls to donate a little bit of their time and join them in bringing some Christmas cheer to the lonely and needy on December 25.
"The first year we opened our house to the poor, the broken and the lonely and we welcomed three people into our home," Max said. "The second year we had 11 people and we could see that if we did it again we would need more space.
"The third year we held it on Town Beach and had to take a fridge down and 16 people came along. Last year there were 450, we now have a refrigerated truck.
"We never cap the numbers, we always over-cater. The food we have left over goes to the McCosker House women's refuge or families in need. Nothing goes to waste.
"Everyone who is there on the day is meant to be there. Many of our volunteers give their time because they too might be lonely."
Christmas on the Beach is supported by Port Macquarie-Hastings Council with many local businesses donating food, services and manpower to make the day happen. Hams need to be sliced, salads tossed, cakes cut, tables dressed and marquees erected. This year, Karen says volunteer teams will be coordinated to ensure the day runs smoothly.
"Without our volunteers and the support of this town, this wouldn't happen," Karen said. "On the day, we just open our arms. People come from all walks of life and a lot of them, for whatever reason, are hurting," Karen said.
"We just want to make them feel special. We want to give them the best, make them feel important and valued and let them know that their community cares about them.
"At the end of the day we all walk away as friends. Everyone gets tossed a curve ball at some time in their life.
"When you can help put a smile back on someone's face you know in yourself that you'll be back next year to do it all again.
"That's why our volunteers are so special."
Anyone wanting to volunteer their time at Christmas on the Beach can contact Max or Karen on 6584 6570, drop in to the church office at 40 Munster Street or fill in the online form at portcitychurch.org.au/christmas
