Bruce and Muriel Kendall and their family have been going to the same spot at Learmonth Caravan Park for the past 50 years. PICTURE: JEREMY BANNISTER
Ankle deep water one year, smelting hot winds the next – weather that would deter others hasn’t stopped the McKenzie and Kendall family from keeping their family New Year’s tradition.
Rain, hail or shine, in the far corner of the Learmonth Caravan Park you will find generations of smiles come together to celebrate their favourite time of year.
A 50-year-old tent bears the marks of the many memorable times this family has spent together reminiscing on the past year over a barbecue and communal games.
What began in Trawalla as a small family gathering has grown to become a tradition well known among the locals of the town of Learmonth. Half a century later, Bruce Kendall, now in his 80s, has watched his family grow and come together over Christmas and New Year, some travelling from as far as Sydney.
“One year I spent more than $1000 on camping fees,” he said.
“Another year we bought a whole side of lamb for chops for us all.”
The New Year’s gathering has become a huge part of life for Mr Kendall and his family, who have shared many memorable moments under the tent.
“In 2010 it flooded and I remember being ankle-deep in water. We didn’t like that so much,” Mr Kendall said.
“One year it was so cold we huddled together in the laundry, other years we have gone skiing,” Christine Dewhurst said.
“It doesn’t matter about the weather, we will keep coming back,” she said. As generations come and go, the far corner of the Learmonth Caravan Park will be the only place you will find Bruce and his family.