St Francis residents picked up their knitting needles earlier this year to produce a prize-winning artwork for the Grafton Show.
This year's show theme was 'Make a Scarecrow.'
After enthusiastic discussions in the Knit and Natter knitting group, the residents of St Francis decided to create their unique piece, 'Jacca - the Jacaranda Scarecrow'.
Residents began busying themselves knitting squares, scarves and socks to dress Jacca and even St Francis Registered Nurse Bec joined in the fun, knitting Jacca’s pumpkin head.
Dennis from Maintenance contributed Jacca’s purple shirt, and St Francis’ Residential Manager, Sandra’s husband Bob provided his best work pants and boots while also kindly crafting the frame.
Atop Jacca’s head was a farm hat from Bob’s beloved father, who had been a prisoner of war in Changi during World War II.
In an incredible display of teamwork, St Francis residents and employees all contributed to Jacca’s final outfit, with everyone placing something special on him.
Pleasingly, the end result worked, with Jacca taking out ‘Most Outstanding Exhibit, Scarecrow Aged Care’ at the Grafton Show.
The proud residents were elated with the result, but Dennis was especially happy with the $100 paint voucher reward donated by a local business. He is already deciding what to paint next!
Jacca was not the only winner. Joan placed second and third for her knitted socks. Betty placed first for her tapestry of flamingos, and Ngaere placed first and second for her scarves.
Congratulations on the fantastic result! Great job to everyone involved!