HOBBY KEEPS THE COMMUNITY TIGHT-KNIT
FOR more than 19 years local resident Marianne Garland has been spreading joy and comfort with her colourful knitted creations, but now she needs your help.
Ms Garland, 86, started knitting at five years of age in her native Germany — at the outbreak of World War II — and helped her family survive the tough times following the fall of the Third Reich.
With her father held as a prisoner of war and in no position to help, Ms Garland and her mother travelled around Germany and took orders for knitwear in exchange for food.
They survived, and in turn Ms Garland eventually started a new life in Australia with her husband, and she brought her lifelong passion for knitting and helping others with her.
Ms Garland has knitted more than 1000 cardigans over the past two decades for charity, with the cardigans going to homeless people and also children in need.
But as much as she loves her knitting, Ms Garland says she must lean on the assistance of others to keep performing her muchappreciated passion.
“It can cost $700 to $800 to get the yarn and buttons, and that is a lot of money, especially for a pensioner like me,” she said.
Donations of 8 ply acrylic wool can be made by contacting Debbie at Bolton Clarke on 4725 3500.