Opening is celebrated

Around 60 friends and supporters gathered to celebrate the official opening of Mary Mac's Place on Friday, July 27.

The new site is located in the Ethel Cox Parish Centre and is part of the recently completed St John the Baptist Parish development at 100 Blackwall Rd, Woy Woy.

Project coordinator Ms Robyn Schacht said Mary Macs Place was "most grateful" to the many people who contributed to the great success of the open day.

She mentioned Mary Scarf and her team of caterers, Pat Savage and members of the Parish Craft Group and Gabriel Rossey the event decorator.

Ms Schacht said the major benefactors, who made the relocation possible, were recognised on the Roll of Honour in the foyer of the Ethel Cox Centre.

The major sponsors include Newcastle Permanent Building Society, St Vincent de Paul, Central Coast Community Chest, Gosford Council and Ettalong Beach War Memorial Club.

The open day was hosted by St John the Baptist Parish Priest, Fr John Hill and members of the Mary Mac's Place Steering Committee including Member for Gosford Ms Marie Andrew, Parish Pastoral Council representative Ms Louise Degeling and President of St Vincent de Paul Society, Woy Woy, Mr Bill Raper.

"A huge debt of gratitude is owed to Fr John Hill and the parishioners of St John the Baptist," Ms Schacht said.

"Their generous support and strong commitment to establishing a permanent home for Mary Mac's Place within the parish community centre is greatly appreciated.

"Mary Mac's Place volunteers are now able to support 50 people a day with nutritious, hot meals and information and referrals to appropriate community services."

Press release, 3 Aug 2007 Robyn Schacht, Mary Macs Place