AFTER surviving the Depression, World War Two and being the import controller of a wholesale company trading with six countries, Ruth Hinds’ next adventure is attending the Trinder Park fete.

The 81-year-old volunteers with the Salvation Army in an administrative support role, reads, collects spoons, tends to her fernery, works on her scrap book, carries on with her needle work feeling the need to keep her mind active.

“Growing up the hard way makes you a different person and keeping busy is the secret to good ageing,” she said.

“I was thrust into that management role with a great deal of responsibility for 15 years.

“I grew up in Rockhampton where there were more Americans in town at the time than civilians and we opened our house to them as many people did. 

“My first pay was 19 shillings and nine pence for a 40 hour working week.

“Our fete is a good day to celebrate our home and will bring all of our residents together.”

Along with meeting residents like Ruth, visitors can take a sneak peek at Trinder Park’s facelift at the annual Woodridge event.

The fete will be held on Saturday October 8 from 9am to 2pm and will showcase a variety of stalls featuring handmade accessories, food, gift ware, clothing, décor, gardening supplies and much more.

Attendees can while away the hours in the coffee shop enjoying Devonshire tea while listening to local radio station 101 FM’s outside broadcast.

Trinder Park General Manager Alan Lamb said the fete would feature entertainment, amusements and special displays such as face painting, an animal farm and a jumping castle.

“This market day of fun filled activities and stalls showcasing our local produce will draw people throughout Woodridge and the wider community together,” he said.

“Trinder Park is such a beautiful place, we have 52 acres of bushland here and I often describe it as an oasis in the middle of suburbia.

“Residents like Ruth put a lot of effort into making things for the fete.”

Independent Living Unit resident Edward Stephan is also carving out a niche for himself in preparation for the fete.

The 88-year-old has made more than 30 wooden biros and four walking sticks, and there could even be some salt and pepper shakers for sale.

“I hope people come and see what is going on here and what our home is like,” he said.

Edward has been busy making cupboards and repairing stools for residents in the wood shed since he arrived at Trinder Park 21 months ago.

Alan said the fete will reveal the renovated front entrance, the new external colour scheme and the progress made on the repainting of the Nursing Home, which should be close to completion by then.

“The revamp of the facilities will have lifestyle benefits for all residents and will build upon the great environment we have,” he said.

The renovations are scheduled for completion in December.

Where: 10 Laurel Street Woodridge

When:  Saturday 8, October from 8am to 2pm

For: Everyone

Cost:   Free