Joan Shambrook, Anette Mortenson and Inez Bocos reached their target this year – and then some – by selling raffle tickets at Woolworths, the Irish Club and the Buffs Club. 

All raffle prizes were donated, with more than $2500 raised to buy gifts, as some residents don’t even receive a card at this time of year.  

Organiser Joan Shambrook’s daughter Sharon Crossland said the women had been doing this for three years, and the community had been a big help in supporting them.

“These ladies have done all of this on their own to help make the residents’ Christmas a little more enjoyable,” she said. 

“The whole Isa community has really helped, everyone was just so generous.

“We thank the generosity of the Mount Isa community and the local stores that helped out and gave discounts.” 

Ms Crossland said Cheryn Crossland, Rebecca Shambrook, Samantha Kollasch and Katie Murr helped to wrap more than 60 presents. 

All residents received a new wide brim hat from Protector Safety, who organised the right size hats for residents. There were also socks, bath gels and nice-smelling powders given to the residents. 

Registered nurse for Laura Johnson Home Maya Dhambi said residents were happy to get presents. 

“Residents were pleased to receive the Christmas gifts,” she said.