Whiddon Kelso's Great Gatsby evening

Whiddon Kelso director of care services Nicole Mahara said residents and guests enjoyed a three-course meal and entertainment from Bathurst Panorama Chorus, the Kelso High Jazz Band and the Dance Factory.

“To see our residents’ faces when they walked into the dining room, which was themed to recreate and celebrate the 1920s, was something very special,” she said.

“This is our biggest event of the year and one that residents, their loved ones and staff look forward to.

“It’s an important night for us and there’s months of planning that goes into it. 

“Staff go above and beyond to make it a very special experience for residents and their guests. 

“I’m really proud of what we delivered and thank Whiddon staff for making it such an amazing night.

“There was plenty of glitz and glam and the themed photo booth helped to capture some magical moments from the night. 

“It was great to see residents having such an amazing night with their loved ones and staff.”

The organisers of the evening at Whiddon thanked all the volunteers involved, including the Kelso High Jazz Band, Bathurst Panorama Chorus and the Dance Factory. 

In total, 28 volunteers gave their time to make the night a success.

Resident Gloria Constable was effusive in her praise.

“Congratulations to all the staff at the Whiddon Group. Well done,” she said.

“The entertainment was most enjoyable. Everything was beautiful, pretty and well thought-out for the Great Gatsby theme. Everything was so well-presented.”

Whiddon Kelso’s special night last year had a masquerade theme. Residents were joined by loved ones as the dining rooms were transformed into pop-up restaurants for the candlelight dinner.