Residents and staff at Ron Smith Care Centre (RSCC) came together on December 19 to celebrate the festive season with a day focused on joy, connection and togetherness.

According to occupational therapy and recreation manager Simoné Botha, residents and staff in each wing enjoyed a Christmas high tea filled with laughter and shared celebration.

Tables were decorated in red and gold, while residents and staff embraced the occasion by dressing in red, white and green.

The morning began with Christmas music and a lively game of Pass the Parcel, which kept everyone engaged and smiling.

The game featured fun surprises, with the final winners receiving boxes of chocolates to enjoy over the festive season.

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The Pass the Parcel prize winners were Irene Watson (River Lodge 1), Cathy Basterfield (River Lodge 2), Myra Forfar (River Lodge 3), Pearl Porter (Woodlands), Marge Garden (Cedar Park) and Olive Jew (Lakeside).

The celebrations continued with tea and coffee, along with boxes of sweet and savoury treats for each resident, prepared by Reef Caterers.

Botha said the festive atmosphere had been building for weeks prior to the main celebration. The annual Christmas Spirit Competition encouraged each wing to decorate their spaces and showcase their creativity. This year, mischievous elves also appeared throughout the centre, bringing delight to residents and staff.

The elves were named by residents and staff, with winning names including Long Legs, Spicy Pants, Elphie Elf, Jelly Tot and Happy Joe.

River Lodge 1 received the Spirit of Christmas Award for embodying the heart of the season through teamwork, creativity and daily festive fun. River Lodge 3 was awarded the Festive Showcase Award for transforming their area into a Christmas wonderland, complete with a creative photo booth that added to the festive experience.