In August, the gardens of Loraine Community Centre were filled with colour, creativity, and the warm aroma of a community BBQ as residents came together for an afternoon of connection and fun. Families, children, and neighbours gathered to enjoy food, art, and hands-on activities that celebrated the spirit of togetherness that defines the Loraine Estate.
A highlight of the day was the vibrant collage created by Bettina, who worked alongside residents to bring together pictures, textures, and shared ideas into a beautiful collective artwork. Children delighted in clay making and painting, proudly shaping their own creations and adding splashes of colour to the day’s activities. The creative tables quickly became a hub of laughter, imagination, and intergenerational exchange.
While the art stations buzzed with activity, other families relaxed and enjoyed the BBQ, sharing meals and conversations in the sunshine. The event offered a welcoming space for neighbours to meet, catch up, and build new connections.
James Smith added a special educational touch by introducing children to the different types of herbs he grows at the Community Centre every Wednesday and Sunday. Young participants were eager to learn about rosemary, sage, bay, and lavender, gaining a hands-on understanding of how these plants grow and how they can be utilised in everyday cooking and gardening.
Kola, Chair of Loraine Community Centre, expressed his pleasure at seeing such a strong turnout, noting how encouraging it was to witness residents of all ages coming together in a positive and lively atmosphere.
This marked the second community BBQ at the Centre, and it is hoped that it will become a lasting tradition—one that continues to foster neighbourhood connections, strengthen bonds, and create welcoming spaces for everyone on the Loraine Estate.
As the afternoon drew to a close, the sense of shared pride and community spirit was clear. The August BBQ was more than just an event—it was a celebration of what can be achieved when neighbours come together.
