It was a simple gathering in a local park, but for the staff and clients at one disability support service, the event represented so much more.
Carinity Bunderra recently invited the Boonah community to join them for a Teddy Bears Picnic as part of Australia's Biggest Morning Tea, which raises funds for the Cancer Council.
The event was hosted by Bunderra's group participants, who Client Services Coordinator Terri-ann Mcgill said were instrumental to the success of the day.
"Our Thursday cooking group baked delicious treats for the morning tea, including carrot cake and chocolate balls," she said.
"This group practices important life skills each week that support independence, like following recipes, measuring ingredients and using kitchen tools safely.
"They learn about nutrition and healthy eating, and gain practical experience with meal planning, including budgeting and writing shopping lists.
"The group is passionate about cooking and were so excited for the opportunity to share their food with the wider community, especially for a great cause."
Participants of other weekly groups at Bunderra were also keen to contribute to the success of the fundraiser.
"On Tuesday we run a card games group and special projects group. These participants took pride in setting everything up for our picnic, so that it looked festive and ran smoothly," Terri-ann said.
"What stood out was the way they arrived with open minds, big smiles and a willingness to be part of something special."
A highlight of the event for many was Bunderra service user Anton, who embraced the theme and spread joy by dressing head-to-toe as a teddy bear.
Anton said he was proud to have been involved with both cooking for and setting up the picnic.
"The thing I enjoyed most about the day was dressing up in the costume my mum helped me organise, and socialising with all the guests. I had a basket filled with lollies and teddy bear biscuits, which I walked around handing out to everyone," he said.
Anton has been supported by Bunderra for the past 20 years. He is well known as the life of the party, always up for a laugh, and goes out of his way to make sure everyone is included and feels welcome.
"My favourite thing about Bunderra is all the friends I have made. I enjoy my group activities and the individual support I receive on Fridays, where I volunteer at the community centre's weekly barbeque, along with my support worker Pat."
The Teddy Bears Picnic raised $626 for the Cancer Council, which will fund vital cancer research, support services, prevention programs, and advocacy.
Terri-ann said that beyond raising funds for an important cause, she was most happy with the way the picnic brought the community together.
"Watching everyone share food, conversations, and a sense of togetherness was incredibly rewarding. Bunderra is a special place and events like this help our clients to feel valued, capable, confident and connected."
