Mrs Yorky’s love for Christmas, leaves a legacy for Mid North Coast Cancer Institute

TREASURED Glenreagh resident, the late Mrs Nola York, inspired a long-standing tradition that brought the village together each Christmas to raise funds for the Mid North Coast Cancer Institute.

Mrs York, affectionately known as “Mrs Yorky” and who passed away in early November, was renowned for her love of Christmas and her generosity in supporting local cancer services.

Following her passing, the Glenreagh community joined forces to ensure the event was bigger and brighter than ever, raising $15,400.

Granddaughter Lindy Booker said the success of Mrs Yorky’s Christmas was made possible by the incredible generosity of the Glenreagh community and local organisations.

“Volunteers from the NSW Rural Fire Service Glenreagh Brigade, Orara Valley CWA, Orara Valley Lions Club and The Golden Dog Hotel donated time, equipment, manpower and venues to make the event unforgettable,” Lindy said.

“Nan would have been completely overwhelmed by the support and never would have dreamt that she would have raised over $15,000.”

Mid North Coast Cancer Institute’s Nurse Unit Manager Belinda Edgley said the annual donation from Mrs York was always well received.

“We loved her visits and her genuine love for Christmas was very evident,” said Belinda.

“The community was always so supportive of her throughout the years of fundraising, Mrs York will be dearly missed.”  For decades, Mrs York transformed the windows of the former Glenreagh Bakery into a dazzling Christmas display, raising funds for the Mid North Coast Cancer Institute through raffles and donations.

This year, the community rallied to honour her legacy with one final Christmas lights extravaganza.

Mrs York’s love for Christmas and her commitment to helping others will continue to inspire Glenreagh and the wider community for years to come.

By Andrea FERRARI