| 22-01-2010 00:05:28 NEWCASTLE INDONESIAN COMMUNITY CELEBRATES CHRISTMAS AT LAKE MACQUARIE |
 The old heritage-listed railway station at Toronto on the western side of Lake Macquarie proved an ideal location for the Indonesian Australian Community (Newcastle & Hunter Region) (IAC) Christmas party on 27 December 2009. The train service to Toronto was closed by the government in 1990, just one year short of its centenary. However, the Lake Macquarie & District Historical Society now operate a small museum in the old station building, which was built in 1911. Hundreds of old photos of the area, as well as many small items of historical significance, are on display for the public to view during opening times - Sunday and Wednesday afternoons (from 1 PM to 4 PM). The IAC President, Linda Pengilley, hosted the party and her husband, Max, who is the historical society honorary secretary, welcomed members and friends to the Lake Macquarie Heritage Centre. Members and friends helped Linda prepare a delicious banquet of traditional Indonesian dishes, which they spread out on tables on the station platform. A total of 94 people enjoyed the party. Birthdays were also celebrated for eight people who had their birthdays during December. A beautiful layered birthday cake, made by member Yulianty Weaver, was cut and shared among the guests. Some people travelled very long distances to attend - from as far north as Singleton in the Hunter Valley and from as far south as Sydney. Linda thanked members for all their help and support during the year and wished everyone a happy, safe and successful 2010. |
