After a year of working for the benefit of others, it was the turn of the Torchbearers for Legacy to relax and enjoy themselves at the Christmas dinner at the RSL on Monday night.

Even so, thoughts of others did not leave the minds of those attending; each Torchbearer and guest took a gift to be sent to the Kylie Williams Home for ill or orphan children.

The dinner of seafood or fruit cocktail followed by roast turkey and Christmas pudding, was delicious.

Conversation buzzed, and laughter abounded but did not detract from the music supplied by Arthur Mainwaring, on his electronic organ.

Each of the ladies in attendance took a gift to be placed under the Christmas tree and these were handed out so that the feeling of Christmas was very real.

Lake Cathie opened

Following an inspection by the shire engineer, Mr Russell, and the Port Macquarie municipal council engineer, Mr Grogan, the two councils decided to open Lake Cathie to the sea on Tuesday.

A bulldozer from the shire council and a front-end loader from the municipal council began work at 10am, on Tuesday. The work was completed by 4 pm.

Reports received yesterday stated that overnight the channel had deepened considerably and the Lake had risen in height of water in the back-up of the lake by about 6 inches.

The engineers are quite hopeful that if the rain continues then the opening of the Lake would be a success.

There has definitely been an improvement in the widening of the channel and it is anticipated that this position will improve still further.

Council won windmill and waterfall

On Saturday afternoon, in great weather for windmills with a boisterous north-easter blowing, another section of Mrs York's Garden was officially handed over to the municipal council.

Former mayor, Mr A. Les Crisp, was among those attending. In a prepared statement he said: "Today we are once again recognising the handiwork of a grand lady whose artistic hands and clever mind have made all things bright and beautiful in the front door showplace we are looking at this afternoon".

"During my years of civic office I have always appreciated the desire and efforts of Mr and Mrs York to set a high standard of civic pride.

"This well landscaped waterfront botanic garden and The Observatory in Rotary Park, will always keep their efforts evergreen in the hearts and minds of present and future generations."

Deputy mayor Ald. Jim Boardman had the pleasant duty of expressing Mrs York's thanks. On her behalf he read the following message: 'May I thank the following, firstly, the mayor, Mr "Mac" Adams, for the trouble he has taken in calling together friends and garden lovers to the dedication of the waterfall and windmill in my garden. Secondly, the council, for approving, then to council staff whose efforts have made the area so tidy ... I conclude by saying the making of the garden has given me great pleasure as well to citizens and visitors. Dear friends, Port Macquarie is beautiful; save this natural beauty whenever and wherever you can'.