SPIRIT
2020
A Guide to Christmas in the Limestone Coast
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Look local this Christmas
Festive puzzles
Sustainable celebrations
The season to keep calm
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MAGIC MOMENT: The NF McDonnell and Sons Santa’s Boulevard was among the region’s most impactful innovations in a year impacted by COVID-19.
Merry Christmas to all After a challenging year due to the coronavirus pandemic, the Christmas holiday period provides the chance for the Limestone Coast to relax and reconnect CHRISTMAS is a week away - let that sink in. A year like no other at times has made weeks feel like months and it seems more recently, months feel like weeks. The COVID-19 pandemic remains an active part of our daily lives through various restrictions and requirements yet its arrival in Australia seems a lifetime ago. The Limestone Coast has been affected in many ways by the pandemic but fortunately our exposure to the virus has been limited. Our impacts have largely been economic and social with many businesses forced to close or operate under heavy restrictions, while so many events we have come to know and love were cancelled. Despite these challenges, our resilient community has rallied behind one another, which has resulted in widespread innovation and some unique concepts that we may never see again. Among the latest examples of this was the NF McDonnell and Sons Santa’s Boulevard, which replaced the traditional Christmas Parade. While bad weather triggered the cancellation of night two, the festive spectacular was a testament to Mount Gambier City Council, its staff and volunteers who transformed Blue Lake Sports Park into a Christmas wonderland. Christmas helps spread joy throughout our community and it was the perfect parade replacement which allowed children to be mesmerised by the magic of the festive season.
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While this purpose-built thoroughfare was well received, Limestone Coast properties right across the region are donning their own Christmas displays and dotting flashing lights and inflatable Santas throughout our residential neighbourhoods. No matter how extravagant or subtle, there is no denying these displays light up the faces of passers-by on a daily basis.
3 A list of many Christmas light displays across the Limestone Coast can be found on the back page of Christmas Spirit. Well done to all who have made the effort to spread Christmas cheer. Sadly for some, the holiday season is not a time of joy due to a range of circumstances. The traditional Mount Gambier Community Christmas Lunch will continue this year, which thankfully has been able to take place by managing COVID-19 requirements. It has already reached capacity, displaying the need for such an event to cater for the community’s vulnerable residents, as well as those who have no-one to share a Christmas meal with. The organisers and volunteers behind this annual tradition deserve the highest praise for taking time out of their own Christmas Day to provide for others. Foodbank Mount Gambier has also put in a mammoth effort behind the scenes to help supply food and Christmas hampers to those in need right across the Limestone Coast. Their peak season preparations were briefly interrupted by South Australia’s circuit-breaker lockdown but the team rallied and is another highly deserving of community praise. For those with last-minute gifts to buy or - if you’re like some - yet to start your Christmas gift shopping, there is no better place to look this year than local. The economic impacts of COVID-19 have been in plain sight for all to see yet so many businesses - new and established - have persevered through this unprecedented period and now is the right time to pay them back. Whether it be Christmas lunch groceries or that highly sought after item on your loved one’s list, please endeavour to spend your money in the region where possible. The Big, Small - Support Us All campaign is the perfect message after a tumultuous 2020, reaffirming that whether you shop at national chains or small businesses, your money is directly contributing to local jobs and local families. For those preparing to hit the road for the summer holidays, please take care. As travel routes open up across the nation, our region’s roads are returning to a more frequent flow of vehicles. For many packing up the car and setting off, it will be the first major trip in almost a year due to travel restrictions enforced across Australia. Prepare, make sure you are well rested and stop as needed to ensure you safely arrive at your destination to celebrate the festive season. There is no telling what 2021 will bring but if this year has taught us anything - it is to not look that far ahead. Embrace this holiday period and connect with your loved ones and your community. From the staff at The Border Watch, we wish all our readers, advertisers and supporters a Merry Christmas and a happy new year. We look forward to keeping you informed about Limestone Coast news, sport, events and people in 2021.
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CHRISTMAS CHEER: The Mount Gambier Community Christmas Day Lunch event organiser Kevin Douglas has booked out this year’s event, with numbers capped due to the coronavirus. Picture: Molly Taylor
Virus caps numbers for charity lunch Mount Gambier Community Christmas Day lunch booked out with places restricted due to COVID-19 requirements. By Molly Taylor
lunch and Christmas pudding dessert. “If many of our guests try and afford some of the food which we provide, it most likely means they are missing out on something else.
BOOKINGS have filled for the Mount Gambier Community Christmas Day Lunch this year as organisers aim to provide the charitable service in a COVID-safe manner.
“Their budget might not go that far even if it is spent wisely.” A group of James Morrison Academy of Music students will entertain guests as they arrive and throughout the event.
The volunteer-driven event has become a staple on the city’s festive calendar, providing food and comfort on Christmas Day in a family-friendly atmosphere for isolated or in-need city residents.
Veteran snake catcher David Miles will also attend to perform a reptile demonstration.
Supported by the Stand Like Stone Foundation and Mount Gambier City Council, 2020 event organiser Kevin Douglas anyone was welcome to attend the luncheon but numbers at this year’s event would likely be strictly capped to 80.
St Paul’s Catholic Church’s Father Dean Marin will be in attendance to bless guests. The event will be held on Christmas Day at Mount Gambier City Hall from 11.45am until 2.30pm.
“It is all about delivering an enjoyable day for the people who do not have much to look forward to.”
Enquiries can be made by contacting Vicki Clark on 0488 100 062 or Kevin Douglas on 0418 840 947.
Provided COVID-19 restrictions allow, a band of volunteers will work from 10am until 3pm to provide a free three-course meal to guests.
If people attend without booking, takeaway food options may be available depending on resources.
The meal will include nibbles upon arrival, a roast meat and vegetable
Gift produce bags will also be supplied to guests when they leave.
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“We want to provide them with the meal, a smile and somebody to talk to,” Mr Douglas said.
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New addition to family Limestone Coast foster parents prepare to celebrate one year old’s first Christmas in nurturing home A ONE year old child unable to live with her biological parents will be surrounded by a loving foster family this Christmas as they share their first festive season together. Limestone Coast parents Brooke and Mark have extended their family of four boys, including four-year-old Harry, seven-year-old Charlie and two older sons of Mark’s, by welcoming the young girl. She was matched with the family through country agency ac.care, which was seeking a safe and nurturing home environment for the child under a long-term arrangement. Brooke said the extended family welcomed the news of her arrival and looked forward to sharing Christmas, and many other occasions, with an additional child. “We love Christmas and it’s always an important event for our family, but I think having that extra one, the first girl in our immediate family, will just make it perfect,” Brooke said. “She’ll play and be so excited with the boys in the morning and that time with family I think will be really great - celebrating with a baby is always really exciting.” Mark added that their own parents also “doted on” the new member of the family as foster grandparents and loved sharing time together. The child’s biological parents also maintain a relationship with the young girl and her foster family, including periodic visits. Brooke and Mark were inspired by other foster carers and were happy to share their story in the hope more people may consider opening their hearts and homes to young people in need of safe homes. “We had some family friends who had gone through the process to become foster carers and they were quite inspirational,” Brooke said. She said it took around 12 months from the couple’s initial inquiry with ac.care, followed by assessment and training processes, through to suitable placement matching and the arrival of their foster daughter, who is expected to remain in their care until she becomes an adult. “It was definitely, definitely worth the wait,” Brooke said. “The boys have been really good - they love her. They spend lots of time playing, spending time together and they now understand the process of foster care and are really happy to share that with their friends as well.” Brooke works at a kindergarten and welcomed access to 20 weeks of foster carer leave to help the young child transition into the family home. “Spending that time with her has been really valuable,” she explained. “It definitely made it easier for us to go through that process and she
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CHRISTMAS JOY: Mount Gambier parents Brooke and Mark have welcomed a new member to their family, a one-year-old foster daughter, and look forward to sharing their first Christmas together. has been very much a part of our family from the word go, which has been amazing.” Mark encouraged other people in regional South Australia who had considered becoming foster carers to contact ac.care and discuss their suitability. “When we’ve got her with us out and about in town and introduce her to people as our foster daughter, so many people come up and say ‘oh, we’ve really thought about becoming carers’ and it would be great to see more people take the next step,” he said. Call ac.care on 1300 ACCARE (1300 222 273) or visit accare.org.au to find out more about becoming a foster carer in the Limestone Coast.
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Presents galore at Riddoch Shop Unique and handmade items provide special touch while supporting artists. IF THE sudden statewide lockdown taught us anything, and not just that we’re willing to queue 30 mins to buy groceries and wine, it’s that even a short lockdown can dramatically affect small business. With Christmas fast approaching what better way to build them back up just by shopping locally. The simple act of doing your Christmas shopping in town rather than online can have such a positive impact on an artist who, like many us, have done it tough this year. The Riddoch Shop stocks a range of unique handmade items from over 40 local artists. You’ll discover prints, photography, watercolour paintings, drawings and even embroidery. Mounted, framed or unframed pieces. Jewelry in sterling silver, glass and polymer clay. Terracotta trinkets, reclaimed leather accessories, dazzling opals, silk scarves and wool hats and neckwarmers. And of course the extensive range of cards and art supplies. So whether you need a gift for a friend, a loved one or that workmate you spend too much time laughing with at work, your purchase will support these hardworking artists. The Riddoch Arts & Cultural Centre Shop is open weekdays 10am-5pm, and weekends 10am-2pm. Check the website at www.riddochartgallery.org.au for public holiday times, and season’s greetings from all of the staff and artists
Shopping local a gift for region Limestone Coast businesses ready to deliver for Christmas customers. CHRISTMAS shopping is hitting fever pitch and you need not look further than the Limestone Coast for your holiday gifts and services. Mount Gambier Chamber of Commerce president Hayley Neumann encouraged people to shop at the region’s businesses where possible this year to help trigger an economic boost in the wake of COVID-19. “We have so many amazing places to shop. Every dollar you spend here in town plays a huge role in the economy and sometimes is unique to the rest of Australia as well,” Ms Neumann said. “Each dollar is spread far and wide, our retailers provide support to the community in many ways so it is time to give back to them. “If we want them around, we need to shop in them. We don’t want them to leave. Let’s support them and keep them going.” Ms Neumann said there was always going to be the pressure of online shopping, but online stores did not have the same amount of outgoing costs as storefronts. “They are able to offer a bigger discount that unfortunately the bricks and mortar stores can’t give,” she said. “They can give some, but not as much. But, if you buy online, your dollar is gone from the community so let’s shop here. “Instead of buying online, there’s nothing wrong with buying a physical gift and shipping it off. You know exactly what you’re getting and what you’re gifting. “Buy it here, wrap and fill it with love, then send it off to your friends and relatives.” DJ Interiors store owner Christine Try said she had noticed Christmas shopping had started slightly earlier this year and had seen many people out and about. “A lot of people are taking advantage of the good weather and are getting in early because of the COVID-19 restrictions and knowing the postal services may be a bit under pressure,” Ms Try said. “All stores in town have so much to offer and you are really helping the local economy, whether it is buying a card or something more expensive. “Anything you can do to help in whatever shop really helps the business community in Mount Gambier.” There is extra incentive to do some Christmas shopping in Mount Gambier year with the Big, Small - Support Us All campaign.
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We wish all of our clients and their families a safe, happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year. Ma^ Lbg\eZbk Pbelhg h_Û\^ pbee \ehl^ Zm .if Mn^l]Zr ++g] =^\^f[^k +)+) Zg] k^&hi^g Zm 2Zf P^]g^l]Zr /ma CZgnZkr +)+*' ?hk nk`^gm fZmm^kl% ie^Zl^ \hgmZ\m rhnk Z\\hngmZgm hg ma^bk Z_m^k ahnkl gnf[^k' S E AS O N S G R E E T I N G S F R O M
9 Wehl Street South Mount Gambier Tel: (08) 8724 0399
www.sinclairwilson.com.au 6 Christmas Spirit 2020
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Take your time behind the wheel Patience a virtue when tackling the busy Christmas car park rush THE festive season sees a spike in car park bingles as shoppers rush to buy last minute presents and take advantage of seasonal sales, according to RAA Insurance data.
BIG, SMALL - SUPPORT US ALL: Mount Gambier Chamber of Commerce president Hayley Neumann has urged Limestone Coast residents to shop local this festive season. Picture: Molly Taylor The collaborative project between Mount Gambier City Council, the Chamber of Commerce, Women in Business and Regional Development and Regional Development Australia Limestone Coast encourages residents to shop local and reinvigorate businesses this festive season. The campaign includes competition which will run until December 20, with 10 $100 vouchers provided as prizes. To enter the competition, participants must like, share and tag three friends on the Big Small, Support Us All Facebook or Instagram pages and also ‘like’ the Women in Business and Regional Development and Mount Gambier Chamber of Commerce Facebook and Instagram pages. Women in Business and Regional Development chair Jacinta Jones said communities were built around thriving town centres and it was vital residents think local when it comes to wielding their spending power. “These businesses are the backbone of our community, they are the ones that support our sports clubs, sponsor events, and keep the community going therefore we ask that everyone looks local first when purchasing any item including supporting the many local businesses that have invested in online purchasing to make your local purchase even easier,” she said. “This campaign belongs to our community and therefore we need to embrace it.” Winners will be drawn on December 21 and will receive a $100 voucher from a list of member organisations that have ‘opted in’ to be a part of the competition. “This collaboration is a result of the ‘Our City. Our Economy’ Business Survey and Reconnect to Recover business networking event that was held in July 2020,” Mount Gambier mayor Lynette Martin said.
December is the worst month for car park prang claims, prompting RAA to call for caution as the pre-Christmas shopping rush ramps up. RAA Insurance data for the past five years shows an average 708 claims in December for car park collisions - 15pc higher than the monthly average of 614. The damage bill for these collisions has also risen in the past five years from $2500 to $3200 - or 28pc - on average as more car bumpers are fitted with technology such as sensors and cameras. RAA claims manager Hayley Cain said this technology often needs replacing as a result of a collision. “Our records show more than half of all stationary damage to vehicles occurred in car parks,’’ she said. “The majority of claims occur in large shopping centres such as Marion and Tea Tree Plaza, followed by the large Coles, Woolworths and Foodland supermarket car parks.’’ Ms Cain said reversing was the riskiest car park manoeuvre, with more than 40pc of accidents involving one or both motorists reversing. “If you are reversing, you are 100pc liable for your insurance claim, and if both parties are reversing RAA Insurance generally looks at 50:50 liability,” she said. “The key contributors to these collisions are inattention and impatience, resulting in motorists misjudging distances, parking haphazardly or failing to make sure the way is clear. “We urge all drivers to take extra time to park safely, even if it means walking another 60 seconds to the shops. “If you value your vehicle it pays to be picky about where you park it. “Stay away from skinny parks, large pillars or walls that block visibility and other vehicles that are encroaching on the adjoining space. “If an incident occurs, gather as much information as possible to assist your insurer in processing the claim as quickly as possible.’’
“The event highlighted the importance of local businesses working together to get through this challenging time.
An RAA poll of 988 respondents last December found nine-in-10 believe drivers are less courteous in car parks around Christmas time, while 49pc had seen or been a victim of car park rage.
“It is anticipated that the Big, Small - Support Us All campaign will be an ongoing initiative to support the local business community and we encourage the community to participate.”
You are legally obligated to report the incident to police if damage exceeds $3000. If you are unsure, check with your insurer, or report it anyway to be on the safe side.
MERRY CHRISTMAS Wishing you The perfect gift all a Merry Christmas from the team at James Gray Salon
From the team at 08 8721 3400
12B James Street, Mount Gambier | 8725 2524 12473440-SN52-20
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Crafty gifts with Clare Scriven Precious time shared when making presents at home
STAR EFFORT: Member for Mount Gambier Troy Bell has shared his DIY budget Christmas decoration method.
MAKING home-made gifts is a huge pleasure that I rarely have time for, but at Christmas our children now lead the way.
Backyard DIY with Troy Bell
This year Genevieve, our youngest, decided to decorate bags to use to make drawer sachets. They will be filled with lavender or dried rose petals for a simple gift to give to aunties, nana and her cousins. Sshhh – don’t tell them – it’s a surprise! We purchased draw string bags to decorate, but if we’d started sooner we could have sewn up simple bags using calico fabric.
Member for Mount Gambier creates homemade festive decoration
A couple of simple steps to make sure they last: Use calico or cotton as the fabric Wash, dry and iron the fabric bags before decorating them. This removes any chemicals that could prevent the ink design penetrating into the fabric.
WELCOME to the first session (and quite possibly the last) of Bell’s Backyard DIY where I swap the tie for cable ties and legislation takes a backseat to fairy lights.
Place some cardboard into the bag before using the permanent markers so the ink doesn’t go through to the other side of the bag.
Today, we’ll be making a Christmas star - the perfect budget decoration project for kids and big kids. Pop on some Christmas tunes and get cracking…
Hold the fabric taut when drawing. Iron it again with a hot iron once you’ve completed the designs.
What you’ll need:
The best part is not so much the final product, but the family memories that it creates.
16 coat hangers
Sharing precious time with the children to make something for others is one of the treasures of Christmas for us.
Zip ties and scissors Fairy lights At least one beer (for when frustration takes hold) Instructions: Connect two hangers with cable ties at their long edges with hooks facing the same direction; Repeat three times, for a total of eight hangers; Arrange in a star pattern with hooks; Use as many cable ties as possible to zip tie it all together; Repeat with the remaining hangers and overlay the two big stars together; Zip tie each hanger down and decorate with fairy lights; and Enjoy your very own Christmas star! If you’re keen to see how mine turned out, visit my Facebook page to watch the video or pop by my electorate office at 22a Bay Road to see the results.
PERSONAL TOUCH: South Australian Labor MLC Clare Scriven is joined by her daughter Genevieve for their Christmas craft.
For a
this year step into DJ Interiors
37 Commercial Street West, Mount Gambier | Phone: 8725 2324
12473707-JW52-20
Dave, Amy and their family wish you a safe and very
Merry Christmas 0423 241 323 admin@precisionsecurity.net.au
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Tony Pasin’s Christmas Pudding Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups (400g) dried currants 2 1/4 cups (375g) chopped raisins 3 cups (500g) sultanas 3 cups (500g) chopped seeded prunes 2 1/4 cups (300g) chopped seeded dates 1 1/2 cups (300g) chopped glace fruit (such as cherries, pineapple, figs, apricots) 2 cups (500ml) brandy 250g butter, softened 2 teaspoons finely grated orange rind 1 1/4 cups (275g) firmly packed dark brown sugar TASTY TREAT: Member for MacKillop Nick McBride has offered up his red fruit salad recipe.
4 eggs 1 cup (150g) plain flour 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cloves
Red Fruit Salad by Nick McBride
1 teaspoon ground ginger
Ingredients
1. To make fruit mixture: combine all ingredients in a large bowl; mix well. Cover tightly. Store mixture in a cool, dark place at least overnight or for up to a month, stirring occasionally.
1 punnet strawberries 1 punnet raspberries 500g fresh cherries (pitted) 125g sugar 75ml red wine 1 tbsp brandy Whipped cream or vanilla ice-cream to serve
Method 1. Boil sugar and water to dissolve sugar. 2. Cool and then add wine and brandy.
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4. Serve with cream or ice-cream.
2 cups (140g) stale breadcrumbs 3/4 cup (110g) slivered almonds 1 medium apple, peeled, grated 1/3 cup (80ml) orange juice
Method:
2. Grease a 2-litre (a-cup) pudding basin; line the base with a round of baking paper.
150ml water
3. Pour over fruit and chill well.
1/2 portion basic fruit mixture (see recipe above)
3. Using an electric mixer, beat butter, rind and sugar in a mediumbowl, until smooth. Add eggs, one at a time, beating until just combined between additions. Transfer the mixture to a large bowl; stir in sifted flour and spices, then remaining ingredients. 4. Spoon the mixture into the prepared basin. Place a sheet of foil on bench, top with a sheet of baking paper. Fold a 5cm pleat crossways through both layers. Place the sheets, baking paper-side down, over ba-
The team at Len’s Trading wish you a safe and Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
sin; secure around the basin with string or lid. Make a handle using excess string tied across the top. Trim away the excess foil and paper, leaving about 4cm. Crush remaining foil around string or lid to help form a good seal. 5. Place the pudding basin in a large pan with enough boiling water to come halfway up side of basin. Cover the pan with a tight fitting lid; steam for six hours. Replenish with boiling water as needed to maintain boil and water level during cooking. 6. Stand pudding 10 minutes before turning out.
The Mount Gambier Chamber of Commerce would like to thank the Mount Gambier business community for 70 years of support. We also thank all past presidents and executive committee members who have dedicated their time to make the chamber what it is today.
WE WISH YOU ALL A MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR
Telephone 08 8725 7555 4 Margaret Street, Mount Gambier 12473443-NG52-20
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Why not get creative when it comes time to wrap all those presents.
Wrapped with love From eco-friendly paper through to handmade and specially-themed prints, choosing the right wrapping paper can add to the gift-giving experience CHRISTMAS shopping is all wrapped up for another year, the tree is up, all that is left to do is wrap the presents.
fashion books, perfume or make up. And with colouring in books all the rage, why not use completed pages to wrap smaller item.
But wrapping doesn’t have to mean buying the most expensive wrapping paper you can, or the cheapest and in these days when we are all looking to save money and the environment, wrapping presents creatively might just be the way to go.
Pretty pillow slips and old pieces of left over lace or buttons could also make suitable wrapping paper alternatives as could cheap calico bags - decorated anyway you like and then re-used for the shopping after Christmas.
Wrapping a kitchen-themed gift for the cook in family could be as easy as buying a nice new tea towel and ribbon or even an apron. A cook book from their favourite chef wrapped in a tea towel or apron - tied up with ribbon gives you two gifts in one. A piece of gingham from the craft shop is also an alternative to wrapping paper - particularly for the crafty member of the family who could repurpose it as a tablecloth.
Brown paper is another alternative - those with young children could make good old-fashion potato stamps (cutting out a star or a Christmas tree from a potato) and have a day of letting the children stamp their own wrapping paper for teachers or friends. Henna stamps and other more professional stamps can also be picked up from craft stores.
For the music lover in the house why not try photocopying or buying old sheet music - photocopying allows for the music to be used again and again and to be blown up if needed. This could be the perfect wrapping paper for a CD, music gift card or DVD. Carol music could also be used - trimmed with ribbons or bells. For the fashion lover, a shirt and brooch from the local op-shop could be repurposed to wrap and decorate a more expensive gift of clothing,
Old maps from a favourite holiday, that are cluttering up drawers would also make unusual wrapping paper, particularly for those members of the family who love to travel. Decorations for your nicely wrapped presents could be anything from shells and raffia, to bells, buttons, ribbons, pine cones and foliage. Making store-bought gifts look beautiful and original under the tree doesn’t have to cost the earth.
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Ensure your pet has somewhere quiet to wind down from the buzz of Christmas.
Take care of your pets this Christmas The holiday season will no doubt be an exciting time in Limestone Coast households but the special needs of pets must also be met around the festive celebrations CHRISTMAS is a time for family - and pets are family too, meaning they too deserve special care and attention over the festive season. It can be a hectic time, with visitors, deliveries, and even time away from home to cope with, along with hotter weather. Changes in routine can be distressing for some animals, and the extra feet in the house, or banging on the door by the postie, can be distressing. Disruption caused by family members going on holidays can compound the stress your fur baby feels at this time of year. The RSPCA has put together a number of tips on how to keep your pet happy, healthy and safe this season. Tips include: Keep decorations up high and out of reach of playful pooches and clever kitties who might see your delicate glass baubles or dangling tinsel as toys. Tinsel, string and ribbon might seem like fun, but they can cause obstructions in the intestines if a pet ingests them. Glass baubles can break into dangerous shards if your pet plays with them, so it’s best to keep them out of harm’s way. Don’t feed your pets cooked bones.
If you plan to give your pet some meat scraps, make sure these are given in small quantities and are free of any sauces that might upset their stomachs. Many Christmas plants, like holly, poinsettia, lillies and mistletoe are highly toxic for pets, so keep them out of reach. Ensure your pet has a quiet spot where they can rest, de-stress and wind down, away from noise, visitors and prying children. Don’t allow children to hug and kiss your dog and if the dog licks its lips, shows the whites of its eyes or turns its head away when being patted, intervene immediately. Ensure your pet is always under the charge of a responsible adult - one that you both trust. Additionally, don’t be tempted to give pets as surprise Christmas gifts. A pet is for life, not just the holidays, and needs to be properly introduced to the home. Talk to your loved one and decided whether they are ready to make that commitment. When they are ready, head to a reputable shelter to adopt a pet that needs a home, and ensure the pet gets desexed, registered and microchipped. And don’t buy un-desexed pets from markets, newspapers or online marketplaces.
Seasons Greetings to everyone in the Limestone Coast. Sincere appreciation for your support throughout the year and we trust 2021 will be a prosperous time for all.
GAMBIER EARTH MOVERS PTY LTD 69 Commercial St West, Mount Gambier SA - 08 8723 9573
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The girls at Bare Necessities wish everyone a very Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year.
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We will be open everyday until Christmas.
29 Avey Road, Mount Gambier, South Australia Phone: (08) 8725 4093 | Facsimilie (08) 8723 0049 | Email: admin@gem-group.com.au 12473722-SN52-20
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holiday challenge
HOLIDAY GIANT
6 4 8 2 1 4 5 6 9 4 3 6 4 7 3 1 8
1 True or false: Namibia shares a border with South Africa?
4 In 1961 Yuri Gagarin became the first human to do what?
2 Which of the Brontë sisters e? wrote Jane Eyre
5 David Bowie (pictured) gained fame in the 1970s with his flamboyant alter ego named what?
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S 26 words: Good 39 words: Very good 52 words: Excellent
QUIZ
T E
L T
ANSWERS: 1. True. 2. Charlotte Brontë. 3. Albania. 4. Travel into outer space. 5. Ziggy Stardust.
3 Which of these countries was not once part of Yugoslavia: Macedonia, Serbia or Albania?
O
I
M
E
WORDSTEP DRINK
_ _ _ _
_ _ _ _
_ _ _ _
_ _ _ _
_ _ _ _
PLAYS
CROSS MATH Complete the list by changing one letter at a time to create a new word at each step. There may be more than one possible word step answer.
÷ ×
× +
÷ −
= 15 +
× +
+
= 21 +
+
= 21
=
=
=
9
11
16
Insert each number from 1 to 9 in the shaded squares to solve all the horizontal and vertical equations. Multiplication and division are performed before addition and subtraction.
ANSWERS
9
ALL PUZZLES ©PAGEMASTERS PTY LTD THE PUZZLES MASTERS
ANSWERS: DRINK, DRANK, PRANK, PLANK, PLANS, PLAYS
2
9 7 5 8
7
Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included, and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”.
3 ÷ 1 × 5 = 15 × + + 6 ÷ 2 × 7 = 21 − + + 9 + 8 + 4 = 21 = = = 9 11 16
9
2
SOLUTIONS
HOLIDAY GIANT
3
9-LETTER WORD
9-LETTER WORD
HARD SUDOKU
62 Work (7) 63 Wetter in terms of weather (7) 64 False and defamatory statement (7) 70 Slippery fish (3) 71 Excavate (3)
49 Melanesian island state (4) 51 Sluggish (9) 52 Dismissed (9) 53 Maryland city (9) 54 More tired (7) 55 Dance musical genre (7) 58 Tell a story (7) 60 Room for sleeping (7) 61 Doubter (7)
elite, else, isle, islet, leet, lest, lime, limo, list, lite, litotes, lose, lost, melt, mettle, mile, milo, milt, MISTLETOE, moil, mole, molest, motel, motile, mottle, mottles, settle, silo, silt, sleet, slim, slime, slit, sloe, slot, smelt, smile, soil, sole, soli, steel, stele, stile, stilt, stole, tile, tilt, tilts, title, toil, toile, toilet
57 59
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Managed (7) Novice (7) Formally put an end to (7) Distribute (food) (5,2) Persuaded (7) Sick (3) Phone program (3) Exaltation (9) Mall (8,6) Study of word history (9) Outstanding (9) Venerate (7) Sooner (7) Georgian state capital (7) Bypass (4) Plant family that includes sage (6) Roma is its capital (6) Concludes (4) Ruler (7) Spanish rice dish (6) Gambling house (6)
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60 Diocese (9) 65 Person who plays the organ (8) 66 Accused (8) 67 Book of the Old Testament (7) 68 Australian animal (8) 69 Carry to excess (6) 72 Banishment (9) 73 German car brand (8) 74 High praise (Medieval Lat.) (8) 75 Obviously (7)
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ACROSS
KIDS’ CHRISTMAS CORNER christmas cracker joke Q. What do you get if you cross an apple with a Christmas tree? A. A pine-apple!
WORD FIND
Colour Me Get creative and colour in the image below!
Can you find all of the words listed below? The leftover letters will spell out a secret message.
DRAW ME Can you copy the image below to the grid to the right?
BELLS
FRUITCAKE
NOEL
CANDLE
GIFT
REINDEER
CAROL
GINGERBREAD
SANTA
CHIMNEY
HOLLY
TINSEL
COAL
KRAMPUS
TREE
EGGNOG
LIGHTS
WREATH
Secret message: And to all a good night ALL CONTENT ©PAGEMASTERS PTY LTD, THE PUZZLE MASTERS
4x4 ACROSS
1 Cover gift with paper 5 Circle of light above an angel 6 The Grinch was thought to be this 7 Head to head, – a –
DOWN
1 Sharpen (a knife) 2 Praise wildly 3 When Santa got down from his sled 4 Santa lives here, the North –
ANSWERS: ACROSS: 1. Wrap, 5. Halo, 6. Evil, 7. Tete, DOWN: 1. Whet, 2. Rave, 3. Alit, 4. Pole. Christmas Spirit 2020 13
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Make your own wreath using plants from the garden or local park.
Have a green, green, green Christmas From presents and decorations to food and festivities, the holiday season brings with it a lot of elements - including waste. Find out how to piece together a more sustainable Christmas this year By Danielle Kutchel THE festive season is a time for joy, but peak consumerism can have a harsh impact on our planet. Look outside the concrete box this Christmas and opt for sustainable choices that will be easier on your hip pocket, better for the planet and will still elicit gasps of joy on Christmas morning. DECORATIONS With a bit of creative nous, almost anything around the house can be turned into a decoration.
Used coffee pods, for example, make a creative adornment for presents or even the Christmas tree. Simply clean them, cut a hole in the top and thread through some ribbon or twine, and you’ve got yourself some crafty little Christmas bells, ready for hanging on a tree or decorating a gift. Cut-up soft drink bottles can be arranged into a boot shape and covered with Christmas-themed fabric to create stand-up stockings, ready for filling with presents. Create one-of-a-kind wreaths using the leaves and flowers you pick up at your local park or in the garden - the kids are sure to love getting involved in putting it together, and the majority of the materials used will breakdown naturally in the garden or compost after the season is over.
Christmas room at Di’s Open everyday until Christmas along with a shop full of gifts. Free gift wrapping. Visit Di’s - you will be surprised • Beautiful nativities • Brilliant decorations • Cards, serviettes, bonbons, named baubles and Christmas story books etc OPEN 7 DAYS UNTIL 5PM. Di’s Gifts n Flowers 43 Church Street Penola SA 5277 08 8737 2284 0429 372 341 12473888-SG52-20
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Look for environmentally friendly ways to wrap your gifts. WRAPPING There’s no need to cut corners on your gift wrapping for the sake of the planet, because there are plenty of eco-friendly ways to wrap up a gift in a way that shows your love for both the planet and the recipient. Thinking about the context of the gift can help. Gifts for the kitchen can be wrapped in a Christmas-themed tea-towel; the wrapping then becomes part of the present and can be used over and over again, rather than being thrown into landfill on Christmas night. Or, try wrapping presents in cloths, like scarves or bandannas. Again, it’s a beautiful way to incorporate the gift into the wrapping. Add some leaves or flowers from the garden under the ribbon for a simple, cheap decoration. Old shoeboxes make terrific gift boxes and are a good way to reuse something you would normally just throw out. Wrap it in newspaper to increase your recycling credentials, or ask the kids to draw their best festive pictures on the box for that personal touch. If you’re handy with a sewing machine, you can pick up fabric scraps or old clothes from the op shop and turn them into Santa sacks, ready to fill with presents to gift to the ones you love.
Homemade jams make delicious and personal presents.
GIFTS If you know there is a cause dear to your recipient’s heart, there are plenty of websites that allow you to make donations to causes around the world. From education for girls to goats for villages or tickets to charity lotteries, the options are endless - and it means you’re giving a present to not just one, but two people or potentially a whole village.
When purchasing gifts, look for those with minimal packaging to immediately cut the environmental impact. Hit up local op shops or see if there is anything around the house that you can re-gift to a better home. Steer clear of cheap products that are likely to break before Boxing Day and opt for something sturdier, like gifts made of wood or metal. Farmers and craft markets are great places to pick up unique presents with less packaging and plastic - and best of all, they’re handmade, locally sourced and support small businesses.
Or why not opt for the gift of an experience they’ll never forget? A gift voucher for a delicious dinner out, a hot air balloon ride or a glamping trip is sure to bring a smile to your loved one’s face. If you are keen to buy something new, try websites or local shops offering sustainable options. Some, like the Melbourne Zoo gift shop, donate some of their profits towards charitable causes like conservation or assistance for farmers - so your gift goes even further.
You could also try your hand at making your own gifts for loved ones. Everyone loves home-cooked treats like jams, brownies, gingerbread or Christmas-themed slices. Decorate jars with a scrap of vintage fabric and twine for that old-fashioned feel.
“Warrick and the team at Taylor Marine would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year”
The team at Chapmans News Agency would like to wish everyone a
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Try to stay calm this Christmas by thinking of your home, head and heart.
Tips for a calm Christmas While the holiday season is typically filled with excitement and joy, it can also trigger other emotions. Here are some tips to help you prepare and enjoy a more relaxed Christmas HOME If your home is a mess your mind will be too. Decluttering expert, Amy Revell shared some ideas of how to give our homes a quick calming make-over before school breaks up.
Wishing everyone a merry and als. safe Christmas especially the anim
1. Declutter toys If you have time before Christmas, sit with your kids and go through their toy collection. Anything they no longer used can be given away to make space for new gifts”, suggests Amy. “This is a great activity to do with your children in December is to do a thorough declutter of their toys.
Wishing you a safe and Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year
We look forward to seeing you all in 2021
Clare Scriven MLC
-From the staff at Gambier Vets
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CHRISTMAS is coming. Are you feeling calm or frazzled? Here are some great tips for the home, head and heart.
17 Use the opportunity when you know they’re likely to receive new toys for Christmas to work with them to donate and declutter toys they no longer love and play with. Clear out space so that after Christmas when it’s time to put new toys away you actually have space to fit them and find a home for everything. 2. Clear out hard rubbish Go around the main living and entertaining areas in your home and declutter the obvious un-wanted, un-needed and broken items in your house. Anything that cannot be donated can be discarded. Tip: do it right away; don’t leave bags of rubbish at your front door or clogging up your car. 3. Donate to others Consider not selling your gently loved toys and usable household goods and donating instead. Drop these off to a charity organisation near you and they could have a second life with another family this Christmas. Important: remember to actually drop donations off as soon as possible and do not leave them in the back of your car until New Year! 4. Make stations Set up a “wrapping station” before Christmas every year. Other than paper, ribbon and labels, ensure to include scissors and sticky tape and remind other family members to keep everything together. The wrapping station could just be a big plastic tub in the corner of your living room or a designated shelf in a cupboard. HEAD Get your mental load organised. Crack out your calendar and face the reality of your time. 1. Make friends with your calendar Give your calendar lots of attention by checking in every couple of days. You can plan some things weeks in advance, but make sure the little things like gifts, food platters and Christmas clothes are organised at least a day in advance from an event. Try and make it a goal to avoid the last-minute dash to the shops or frantically searching for a Santa hat.
There are several ways you can enjoy a sustainable Christmas this year.
2. Be realistic like and get them to wander around and look at everything. Once they show you what they like, you can take a photo and make a note of the price. Use this time to help your kids to understand how many gifts is appropriate to ask Santa for and if you think what they have chosen fits with Santa’s budget.
There is no room for perfectionism at Christmas, or any time of the year in fact. Saying no and “sorry, but we already have enough on our calendar this week”, is not only okay, but healthy for you and your family. Amy says “Kids are particularly tired during December with all the additional childcare and school activities so it’s okay to pop into an event rather than be the first to arrive and the last to leave. It’s even okay to pass on an event that you know will have a negative flow on effect to your family routine and capacity”.
3. Buy experiences Amy says this year get creative in your gift giving and think about moving away from physical gifts to giving experiences. We often do this for adults, but it’s fantastic for kids too. Think movie tickets, play centre passes, local theatre group ticket, theme park voucher, lessons for a hobby (craft, music, theatre, sport), there are so many great experiences for kids that will get them active, creative and learning new things.
HEART Gives should come from the heart, not just from your head and purse. 1. Create a gift list
4. Make a gift stash
Amy advises that before you buy any more gifts this year, take a moment to write down who you intend to buy for and if you’ve already bought items, write these down too. “It’s easy to overspend at Christmas when you forget you bought something and buy another gift for the same person. Keeping a list will keep you on budget and help you feel organised”, explains Amy.
Why not cook up a batch of marmalade, lemon butter, jam or apple sauce with your kids? Or maybe a fruitcake, shortbread or a gingerbread house? This won’t do for “big” presents, but for smaller gifts, a little hamper of homemade deliciousness is perfect. - Amy Revell, is a mum of 2, a Professional Organiser and owner of The Art of Decluttering course and podcasts: www.artofdecluttering. com.au
2. Go Christmas List Shopping Take your kids to two or three shops that sell things that you know they
Wishing you and your family a safe and Happy Christmas and a Prosperous New Year
The Ploenges Marine Team wish you Merry Christmas and Happy new Year
146 Smith Street Naracoorte 5271
(08) 8762 1211
mackillop@parliament.sa.gov.au
www.nickmcbride.com.au
Nick McBride – Member for MacKillop
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Call in and see our range of Boats, Mercury Outboards and Boating Accessories
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Christmas Spirit 2020 17
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Bang for your buck Sitting down for a Christmas meal is typically followed soon after by the unmistakable ‘bang’ from a festive cracker. It is not too hard to make your own, complete with surprise inside By Danielle Kutchel IT’S one of the most beloved Christmas traditions: pulling a cracker with a loved one and seeing who ends up with the funny hat. But Christmas crackers are often the last thing on the shopping list and after buying the presents, trimmings and food, pockets feel a little less than flush. Why not try making your own? It’s easy and economical, using everyday items you probably have at home already. Best of all, you can fill them with trinkets that mean something to your guests, rather than plastic titbits that are likely to go in the bin at the end of the meal. Now that’s ‘bang’ for your buck! Here’s how to put them together: First, purchase some cracker snaps from your local craft store, like Spotlight. That will give you the authentic bon bon bang! Next, place a cracker snap in a cardboard tube, say a toilet roll tube or a paper towel tube cut in half. If you don’t have any tubes handy, you can find these at craft shops, or cut pieces of flexible cardboard into rectangles and roll into cylinders. Secure the snap with a piece of tape or glue. Then, choose your paper wrapping! You can wrap your bon bons in colourful tissue paper to match your table setting, Christmas wrapping paper, or even light fabric that can be washed and reused again next year. Cut it to fit the tube, with enough overhang to cover the ends of the snap. Roll around the tube and stick down with tape. Pinch one end and tie it down with a ribbon of your choice.
You can customise your crackers to suit your Christmas table settings.
Fill the other end of the tube with your trinkets and fillings (see below for some ideas on what fillings to use!) then tie the last end shut. For a personal touch, add a name tag and use each bon bon as a place setting for the table! Here are some ideas for entertaining cracker fillings: If your guests have a bit of a sweet tooth, buy a box of chocolates and divvy them up amongst the crackers. For the adults in the room, you can purchase liqueur-flavoured chocolates to match guests’ favourite tipples - or perhaps even mini bottles of their favourite spirits. Instead of the cheesy jokes we’ve all heard a thousand times before, write some positive affirmations or messages for the New Year and slip those inside. People love to know they are cared for! Are you a romantic at heart? If your beloved loves Christmas as much as you do, a cracker might be the place to hide the ring. Just make sure they get the right bon bon to pull or things could get awkward. For the kids, include something they’ll actually use. Colourful hair ties or clips, badges, marbles or spinning tops make cute gifts for the little ones.
Making your own Christmas crackers is easy, economical and personal.
Wishing
FEDERAL MEMBER FOR BARKER F 27 Commercial Street East, Mount Gambier SA 5290 08 8724 7730 tony.pasin.mp@aph.gov.au tonypasin.com.au Authorised by Tony Pasin MP, Liberal Party of Australia, 27 Commercial Street East, Mount Gambier SA 5290.
18 Christmas Spirit 2020
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everyone a happy and safe holiday season
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Give better this Christmas Consumer behaviour expert puts festive season shoppers under microscope with gifts showing thought and effort the most favoured IT’S OK to veto Valentine’s Day and pay little heed to Halloween, but when it comes to Christmas most of us aren’t willing to suffer the backlash of crushing convention to help the climate. Consumer behaviour expert, Dr Paul Harrison, says that Christmas is the hardest holiday to veto. “Even though many of us accept and believe the warnings of the scientific community on the need for people to consume less in the context of a changing climate, there seems to be an exception around Christmas,” Dr Harrison said. “The acknowledgement of Christmas and rituals of gift giving at this time are fairly consistent across our cultural messaging in the Western world, making it a very difficult social event to veto without seeming like a so-called Grinch.” Dr Harrison’s research into how biology and the environment interacts to influence consumer behaviour and how people make decisions while shopping suggests that Christmas is the most difficult holiday for individuals to challenge when it comes to gift giving. “For anyone challenging this norm, there can be an unpleasant backlash,” he said. “One norm of behaviour that has evolved over time, partly through clever conditioning of consumers by skilled marketers, is to equate the amount of money we spend on a gift to how much we value or love the recipient. That notion, inadvertently, is not great for consumption and the environment.”
You don’t need to buy mountains of presents to give your loved ones a merry Christmas.
Dr Harrison said it’s possible to change our gifting culture from revolving around material items, but this shift will take time. “Christmas and the purchase of products don’t have to go hand in hand. We hear it said again and again that material things don’t make us happy and when it comes to gifts, research shows this adage to be true,” Dr Harrison said. “However, that doesn’t mean that people are able to let go of the idea of a Christmas tree crowded with gifts, or stockings billowing with toys from Santa anytime soon because society has fallen prey to the illusion created by marketers who work to tap into people’s vulnerabilities and emotions.” According to Dr Harrison’s research, the gifts that make their receivers happiest for the longest time are: 1. Gifts that show that thought and effort went into selecting the item; 2. Something personal, that directly connects to the relationship of the giver and receiver of the gift; 3. The gift of an experience has been shown to give the recipient longer joy and satisfaction than a material item.
Wishing everyone a Merry ry Christmas and a Happy & Prosperous New Year. Our office will be closed from 23rd December 2020 and re-open 11th January 2021.
The team at Beaumont Tiles Mount Gambier, wish our clients and the Limestone Coast a very Merry Christmas
Looking
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Poinsettias are an iconic Christmas bloom.
Lilies work well on their own or in an arrangement with other festive colours.
Bring some Rosemary inside for your floral arrangement - and the roast!
Bloomin’ beautiful for Christmas Floral arrangements are the perfect way to inject more colour into your festive displays but just like Christmas gifts and feasts, there are plenty of options to fit your own style FLORAL arrangements are a perfect way to add some colour to your Yule time table. Ensure your house is looking its festive, floral best with these popular blooms:
and green foliage it’s not hard to see why. They are commonly found in pots, ready to adorn a table or bench in your house. However, they can be finicky; they don’t like too much water, but take care also to not let them dry out. If the leaves begin to turn yellow and fall off, you may not be watering it correctly. They’re native to Mexico, so they also prefer warmth and light, and make sure to protect them from wind and draughts to keep them happy for the Christmas season.
Lilies Lilies and amaryllis are always a popular choice at Christmas in a variety of colours. Many varieties have a beautiful scent that will perfume your home. They can be placed in an arrangement with other flowers or in a vase on their own and prefer to be kept away from direct sunlight in a cool environment. Remember though that lilies are extremely toxic to cats, causing acute renal failure, so think twice before gifting them to your cat-loving friend and keep them out of reach of your own felines.
Rosemary It might not be the first plant that comes to mind when you think of Christmas, but this Mediterranean herb is actually perfect for an Australian Christmas. It’s easy to grow and care for, and fills the air with a mouth-watering perfume. It can be pruned into a Christmas tree shape if desired, and best of all, pairs deliciously well with the Christmas roast.
Poinsettia The poinsettia has come to symbolise Christmas, and with its bright red
Seasons Greetings from Resthaven
Make Christmas a Sassi one. Homewares, Clothing, Shoes, Bags, Jewellery and much more! FREE GIFT WRAPPING
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A sweet festive tradition Gingerbread houses are tasty as is but finding what decorations stack up best is the true challenge. From candy canes to chocolates, there is no shortage of options GINGERBREAD houses originiated in Germany during the 16th century. They quickly become associated with Christmas and it’s a tradition many Australian families have adopted too. Once the gingerbread has been baked and the house constructed, the fun really starts. Decorating your gingerbread house is a treat to be enjoyed by the whole family - especially those with a sweet tooth. Here are some tips on the best lollies to use for texture and design. Gum Drops Gumdrops are one of the most iconic gingerbread house candies. They are mainly used as Christmas lights, fences and colorful accents on the roof. M&Ms M&Ms are a must for any gingerbread house. M&Ms are small round chocolates that are commonly use for decorating the roof of the house. By adding some frosting and sticking them individually on the roof, you can create colorful red and green patterns. Hershey Kisses Hershey Kisses can be used as roof decor, but also used to create walk ways for the house.
In addition, candy bricks are great to line the gingerbread house walls. This can bring a nice rustic or classic feel to your house.
Candy Canes
Gingerbread Man Decor
Traditional candy canes are one of the most diverse sweets to use when decorating a gingerbread house. They can be used to create heart shape windows, lamp posts with a yellow gumdrop lamp or even a supporting doorway.
Gingerbread men decor are primary used outside the house. It’s common to have a gingerbread couple or family with every gingerbread house. It’s best practice to find smaller gingerbread men and women so that they are proportional with the house size.
If you are able find stick shaped candy canes, this will allow you to create many red and white boarders around the house. Christmas Sprinkles The primary purpose of Christmas themed sprinkles is to add a pop of color and shapes to your theme. While most sprinkles come in a cylindrical shape, Christmas themed sprinkles can come in round, star, heart, Christmas tree and even Santa shapes which can elevate your design. They can be also found in many different kinds of colors as well. Peppermints Peppermints can be the focal point of any gingerbread house. They are usually placed right above the door or where the two roofs meet. Peppermints can also be used as the primary candy to decorate the roof. Candy Icicles and Bricks Candy icicles can add the winter touch to any gingerbread house. Candy icicles are used to decorate the edge of the roof and around the doors.
Snow Frosting and Confetti Snow frosting and confetti can add an elegant touch of winter to any gingerbread house. The snow frosting design is usually applied to the roof and walls to the gingerbread house and can be anywhere from a very simple pattern to a very intricate design. Confetti is a simple way to add color and simple shapes to your creation. Red and Green Sour Tape A newer candy, red and green sour tape is a great way to add texture to your gingerbread house. The sour tape is mainly used on the walls, but could also be used as grass. Chocolate Pretzels If you are considering a cabin-style gingerbread house, chocolate or regular pretzels can be used to create a wooden design. By adding frosting to the pretzels and placing them on the walls and roof of the house, you can have a log cabin style in no time. Tips courtesy bestgingerbreadhouses.com
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Christmas Spirit 2020 21
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Think about how your pets will respond to the tree. Do you have a Christmas climbing cat in your house?
Trees with all the trimmings It is a tradition central to the festive season but there are options aplenty when it comes to Christmas trees DECKING the halls with boughs of holly is all very well, but if you’re looking to shake up your yuletide style, there are plenty of options out there to inject some modern colour and sparkle into your Christmas decor. It all starts with the tree, the focal point of celebrations. A real tree never goes out of style and also smells divine. Picking the tree is a ritual in itself (we all remember that scene from Christmas Vacation) and something that kids of all ages can enjoy. And with plenty of Christmas tree farms locally, you’re sure to find the perfect pine.
Traditional decorations never go out of style.
Real trees take some looking after. They need a constant supply of water so choose a Christmas tree stand that allows you to fill it with water. Keep the tree away from heat sources like sunny windows, heaters and televisions as these can dry it out prematurely. A blanket or tree skirt at the base will collect up any dropped needles.
Christmas Catalogue out now GIFTS, PLANTS AND POTS FOR CHRISTMAS
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Pink Christmas trees are becoming popular.
Is this the ultimate pet-proof tree?
If you’re after something more low-maintenance, with the added benefit of not having to spend money on a new tree each year, faux is the way to go. Perhaps 2019 is the year to embrace a coloured tree? White trees have been in vogue for many years now and are designed to remind revellers of that elusive White Christmas ideal, in the sweltering Australian heat. Colourful decorations pair well with white trees as they stand out against the neutral base.
and twine. Clear glass spheres with shimmering threads of fabric inside are also appearing on shopping mall shelves, adding intricacy and interest. Oversizes ornaments - think baubles as big as your head - are a popular sight, along with non-traditional trinkets in the shape of birds, deer and even hotdogs. There really is a bauble to suit any taste!
Pink-toned trees have also become popular this year. Colours range from the prettiest pastels to hot popping pink. They’re certainly eyecatching and unique, and work well if you have a specific palette of decorations - for example, white and black baubles for a Parisian theme.
1. Get the family involved. If the kids want to throw some tinsel on, or add the plaster reindeer they made at school, let them! Christmas is a time for family, after all!
Take this trend further with an ombre tree. The gradient of colours, set with the right baubles and lights, can look simply stunning. Ombre trees are beginning to pop up online in shades of pink, silver and even black.
3. You might want to consider your pets as well. Some animals will try and eat tinsel, while cats are notorious tree climbers. Think about how you can prevent this from ruining Christmas. Some creative souls are building minimalist-style trees out of bare branches and stacking or hanging their ornaments on them instead of opting for a traditional tree.
TIPS
2. Ensure your tree doesn’t become a fire hazard! Keep it away from flames and heat sources, and make sure any fairy lights are fireproof.
When it comes to decorations, the classic look of red, emerald and gold decorations remains evergreen (pardon the pun!) and adds a really festive feel to your home. If you’ve chosen a coloured tree, you might enjoy the rainbow effect of colourful baubles, or perhaps you can pick a theme of vibrant jewels that “go” with the base colour of the branches.
4. Trees are a great way to express your personal style. Whether you’re a maximalist or a minimalist, a nature lover or have a more modern aesthetic, now is your chance to put your taste and passions on display. Let it show, let it show, let it show!
A pet for Christmas is a family member for life. Look after your new pet with desexing, microchipping and annual vaccinations. Consider adopting from the South East Animal Welfare League
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Baubles in pastels and neutral tones are ruling the racks at the moment, along with decorations made of natural materials, like wood, clay, sisal
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The team at Millicent Tyre Centre wish you a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year
MILLICENT TYRE CENTRE 8723 9133 seawlsa@gmail.com Riddoch Highway, Mil Lel
40 Mt Gambier Road, Millicent SA 5280
(08) 8733 3300 Christmas Spirit 2020 23
24
Hume Court, Mount Gambier
2020 Limestone Coast Christmas Lights Mount Gambier
Voting for Millicent Lights Up Spectacular competition is open until December 23 with voting forms available at South East Property Sales and Management’s Millicent and Beachport offices, as well as Banner Mitre 10 Millicent, Denton SportsPower and Since Fifty Six. You can also visit https://seproperty.typeform. com/to/e7YtIXHO to cast your vote. The event is proudly sponsored by 3MP Steel, Roofing and Fencing Supplies, Banner Mitre 10 Millicent, Hume Taylor & Co and eSmart Electrical.
7 Acacia Street 77 Acacia Street 16 Arlington Terrace Badenoch Street 2 Bodey Street 3 Braxton Close 10 Brolga Street Callaham Place Cambridge Court 27 Carmel Drive 36 Chute Street
Mayflower Court, Mount Gambier
19 Cockburn Street 192 Commercial Street West
24 Mayflower Court
5 Woodcrest Close
10 Monash Terrace
Dalkeith Drive
20 McArthur Street
19 Werona Street
12 Brennan Street
4 Deakin Court
9 Mickail Court
Derwent Court
Monash Crescent
Worrolong
8 Derwent Court
Montebello Drive
7 Coolum Close
8 Emerald Drive
3 Montrose Court
2 Peppercress Court
Emerald Drive
7 Nelson Street
Kavanagh Road
Flinders Terrace
51 North Terrace
Foote Street
88 North Terrace
6 Hakea Street
Oakmont Court
3 Hayes Crescent
Raleigh Terrace
31 Hayes Crescent
Roach Court
30 Heaver Drive
Roanoke Court
Hilltop Avenue
Sandstone Court
11 Hirth Street
12 Sandstone Court
1 Hume Court
7a Smith Street
7 Jacaranda Court
12 Skyline Place
Jennifer Street
21 Shepherdson Road
1 Alleyn Street
Kalangadoo
Kingsley Court
6 Starline Place
5 Wilshire Street
31 Bott Street
19 Lake Terrace East
15 Sutton Avenue
9 Bonshor Street
Lawson Street
45 Sutton Avenue
1 Brooks Street
Lindsay Street
78 Suttontown Road
38 Williams Road
6 Mawson Avenue
Tawarri Crescent
9 McCourt Street
Matthew Flinders Way
1 Telopea Crescent
18 McCourt Street
8 Mayflower Court
8 Varley Street
90 Mount Gambier Road
Listings courtesy of Mount Gambier Christmas Lights Facebook group and Millicent Lights Up Spectacular - presented by South East Property Sales and Management
Compton John Fallas Drive (A walkthrough with social distancing)
Millicent 15 Chapman Road
12 Hutchesson Street 157 Mount Gambier Road 238 Mount Gambier Road
Rendelsham 28 Railway Terrace South
Beachport 4 Mabel Street 8 Somerville Street 34 Ringwood Drive
12 Commercial Avenue
Tantanoola
23 Commercial Avenue
2 North Terrace
15A Tenth Street