A display of vintage gowns and outfits dating back 130 years has helped raise $1300 to develop a new garden at Orana Southern Cross Homes.
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An array of gowns was showcased by young local women in the recent ‘Orana, presenting a touch of nostalgia’ event.
About 120 people attended the catwalk show fundraiser, featuring outfits which once belonged to Orana’s residents and volunteers.
Rita Wilson, who originally suggested the parade, said she was ‘‘overwhelmed by the attendance’’.
‘‘It reached beyond my expectations. We had a huge number of volunteers who were just there when we needed them and really made the day a great one,’’ she said.
Orana volunteer Maureen Strutt said the local community got behind the event, helping to raise money for the residents’ communal garden.
‘‘We ran a raffle which raised $1000 and we had an extra $300 from entry fees. This will go towards further establishing the beloved garden here with new plants and products for the existing ones.
‘‘Jane Frazer devoted so much of her time into collecting clothes, describing them in detail and being our MC. Her time was greatly appreciated.
‘‘It was amazing how small a lot of the outfits were as we needed a few young high school students to fit in them.’’
Orana lifestyle coordinator Donna Milne said leading up to the parade, residents were buzzing with excitement.
‘‘A lot of residents were excited, picking out their outfits and putting makeup on for the Best Dressed Resident competition, which was won by Louise Begg.
‘‘We had one outfit on display that was 130 years old. It was a mourning dress all hand sewn. There were many unique and amazing pieces including the hats, which are more than 100 years old.’’