Congratulations to all the talented contributors who made the St Agnes’ and Lourdes Villages’ Art & Craft Fair a vibrant celebration of creativity and community.

Held from 10–12 July 2025 at the MacKillop Senior College Hall in Port Macquarie, the event showcased an outstanding array of exhibits from residents of St Agnes’ and Lourdes Retirement Living Villages, St Agnes’ Catholic Parish aged care homes, and students from MacKillop College.

From cards, paintings, and drawings to woodwork, quilts, and fairy gardens, the fair was a feast for the senses.

Jody Munro, Manager of the Village Office said visitors were delighted by the intricate craftsmanship on display.

“We are so lucky to have such talent on our doorstep, the fair was an opportunity for Village residents and others to show off what can be created by a needle, paintbrush, woodworking tool, pen, or knitting needle,” said Jody.

“It was wonderful to see Village residents connect through creativity, admiring each other’s work as much as visitors to the fair did, too,” she added.

Resident artist Henry Field delighted attendees with live portrait sketching, while Letitia Kimmorley from Life’s 4 Living showcased the results of her creative workshops with Village residents, where everyday items like egg cartons and toilet rolls are transformed into beautiful new works of art.

The Lourdes Village plant stall was a hit, featuring charming fairy gardens, succulents, and peace lilies. And thanks to the warm hospitality of volunteers from both villages, many enjoyed a relaxing cuppa while taking in the exhibits.

Visitor feedback to this year’s fair was overwhelmingly positive:

“The presentation was great.”

“It was a very good event! I thought there was a lot to see.”

“So many benefits for us all – residents and visitors alike – somewhere to go, people to meet, wonderful and inspiring works to behold, something to learn, in fact the whole package.”

“What a superb variety of items on show and such a high standard throughout.”

“This year’s fair saw a 13% increase in visitors compared to the first time we ran the fair in 2023,” said Jody.

“It was great to have more people visit, especially as it is the first time we’ve used MacKillop Senior College Hall as our venue.”

Jody also hinted at exciting plans for the next fair in 2027, including interactive demonstrations and skill-sharing opportunities to make the event even more engaging.

Entry was by gold coin donation, raising $391.10 for the St Agnes’ Foundation, which supports those in need within the local community.

Interested in being part of the 2027 event?

Feedback and ideas from people who visited this year, as well as expressions of interest from people who might like to be involved in the 2027 event, is invited by emailing: communications@stagnesparish.org.au