Residents of Murray Vale Retirement Village proved once again that community spirit and compassion can come together in the most delightful ways—with cups of tea, sweet treats and plenty of pink!

Organised by the village’s Social Committee, the Afternoon High Tea brought together 30 residents for a heartwarming fundraiser in support of the Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre Trust Fund. From finger sandwiches and scones to music trivia and a silent auction, the event was both elegant and entertaining.

The inspiration behind the fundraiser was simple. “Local people much prefer to support local services,” said Committee Treasurer John McClelland. “At Murray Vale, we all have connections to the Cancer Centre, so we want our donation to make a difference here.”

Fellow committee member Rowena Ginns, one of the key organisers behind the event, echoed those sentiments: “We don’t want our donation going to Sydney. We’re all very aware of the services available here in our local community.”

Planning the event came with its challenges, especially when it came to tracking down tiered platters for the traditional high tea presentation. “When we moved into the retirement village, all residents gave away their tiered platters! We had to go out and beg and borrow 12 for the day,” Rowena laughed.

The hard work paid off. Guests enjoyed a lovely afternoon of food, fun and friendship. “Making finger sandwich was incredibly time-consuming,” Rowena added. “None of us are in a hurry to make them again—but it was worth it!”

Together, the residents raised $578, which was generously rounded up to $600 by the Residents Committee.

Trust Fund Manager Andrew Mackinlay said he was humbled by the village’s efforts. “I am constantly in awe of the generosity that exists in our community,” he said. “Thank you to everyone who helped organise the event, made food, and donated. Here’s to living each and every day!”

As Rowena so beautifully put it: “It’s about learning to live each day and doing what we can to help others.”