Christmas on the Beach organiser Karen Davies says the volunteer lunch at Flynns Beach on February 18 was their way of saying thanks to all the people who helped put together the 2016 event.
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About 50 volunteers attended the lunch.
Over 500 people went to the 2016 Christmas on the Beach hosted by Port City Church with the Big Red Bus.
It was the 20th year organisers Max and Karen Davies opened their doors to the public for a Christmas feast.
Over 200 people supported the event to ensure those less fortunate, regardless of circumstance, were not alone, left with a full tummy and enjoyed the company of others on December 25.
Ms Davies said the event recognised the true meaning of Christmas and has become about families.
She said unfortunately the number of people who are struggling in the community never ceases to rise.
“Port Macquarie is a beautiful town so a lot of people don’t see the despair of people who are doing it so hard.”
Ms Davies walks and talks to people on the streets on a daily basis.
She said there are many who are unable to work, have mental health issues, disabilities or can’t afford to pay rent.
Ms Davies credited the amazing organisations in Port Macquarie which work so hard to help those less fortunate in the community.
She said Christmas on the Beach is a wonderful day which grows every year thanks to the hard work of people in the region.
“If it wasn’t for the volunteers it wouldn’t happen,” she said.