They’re a social lot, the residents of Richmond’s Barrington Place, and for nearly two decades they’ve ensured one of their annual gatherings benefits the Nelson Tasman Hospice.
Long-time resident Barbara James initiated annual street dinners with a pot-luck theme and now she’s calling on other streets to follow suit.
“We have so much fun, we really do. They’re a lovely occasion, and for such a good cause. It’s a marvellous street, and we’d love to see other streets do the same,” says Barbara.
Raising more than $15,000 over the years through donations and raffles held on the evening, their inaugural dinner party was hosted in a resident’s garage and over the years the odd themed party has been introduced, including dressing up as countries for the rugby world cup.
“I just enjoy the company and the neighbourhood, they’re really wonderful neighbours. There’s always someone around to give you a hand if you need it,” says Barbara.
At this year’s street dinner on Saturday, October 6, residents donated raffle prizes including honey, beer, a locally-shot calendar and a miniature cactus garden, with all proceeds, along with generous donations, going directly to hospice.
“It’s extremely important to support the hospice. We all know people who have been or are in there and I guess we’ll all end up there at some stage.”