2020 has been a challenging year for everyone, especially the hospitality industry. It was with this in mind that I went ahead with the organisation of the annual HEIA(Q) Retirees’ High Tea.

On Tuesday 25 August sixteen keen ladies gathered for High Tea at Keri Craig Emporium in the Brisbane Arcade. Originally there were to be 24 attendees, which was a heartening response under the circumstances. Then an outbreak of the virus over the weekend prior resulted in a few cancellations due to concerns for themselves or family members.

It was wonderful to catch up again with a few from out of town. Our older (they may not like that) and favourite regulars like Audrey Lawrie and Val Cocksedge were sorry to have to miss this year but were sensible to make the decision to remain isolated.

The staff at Keri Craig were most understanding and obliging. There were COVID precautions in place and social distancing wasn’t a problem. We had our glass of bubbly on arrival and then we were served a tantalising tower of fresh and flavoursome food with tea or coffee.

Those who attended really enjoyed the excuse for a day out and socialising since opportunities to do so had been limited. There was much reminiscing as well as sharing what we had been doing in lockdown. We all agreed that Home Economics people were never bored or short of activities to keep themselves occupied. There was a lot of creativity happening expressed by sewing, quilting, crocheting, knitting and cooking, as well as using the time to have a clean out.

It was very sad to see so little activity in the CBD and the many closed stores. Here’s hoping next year will be brighter and the retirees will be able to enjoy the company of more friends and colleagues on the last Tuesday in August at Keri Craig.

Denise McManus