For almost 18 years, the Dungog Cuppa and Chat group has been developing a recipe designed to ward off loneliness.
It may be simple but, to date, it’s proven rather successful.
Firstly, pour a cup of tea, coffee, or hot chocolate, weak or strong, decaffeinated, rich or creamy.
Perhaps add a teaspoon of sugar and a dash of milk – or not.
Secondly, stir well and serve, together with two-way, non-judgemental, open, genuine conversation.
Finally, repeat every Friday morning.
The faces behind Cuppa and Chat say its recipe has been warming hearts since the winter of 2007.
Back then the plan was to offer single mothers a chance to enjoy two hours of uninterrupted conversation with fellow Dungog locals.
While retired teacher Lorraine Walker cared for the babies and children, mums could focus on finding connection.
As temperatures dropped outside, the gathering promised warmth and friendship to all who entered its doors.
But the group soon dispersed as mother’s returned to work or moved away from the township.
What remained in its place is the now-popular, all-ages social group that has been filling the Dowling Street building every Friday morning between 9:30 and 11am.
“We’ve got a lot of people who come here who have lost their partners. Some might be new to town, and then there are others the op shop might have sent over,” Lorraine says.
“We’re here for anyone who walks through these doors.”
Despite the change in clientele, at its heart the group is still a beacon designed to combat loneliness in a town with less than 10,000.
“It is about forming friendships, it’s a chance to socialise, and it’s about finding connection,” Lorraine explains.
“I thought I was going to entertain kids so mums could chat.
“That’s where it got its name.
“But it didn’t work out like that, obviously God had another reason for us to start it.”
Cuppa and Chat meets at Dungog Anglican Church Hall every week.
It regularly draws at least a dozen visitors.
“We’ve got people who come who go to church, don’t go to church, are Catholic, Anglican, anyone can call in, everyone is welcome,” Lorraine adds.
While self-designated hosts Wendy, Lorraine, Lynn, Beryl, and Sandy take turns bringing a cake, slice or biscuits, and switching on the urn and air-conditioner, they also coordinate special occasions and annual fundraisers.
“Christmas means sharing lunch and supporting a local charity,” Lynn explains.
“And birthdays mean cake.”
The group has even produced a recipe book over the years, sharing the secrets to some of their delectable treats.
During Covid-19 lockdowns, the group even met at a local park to stay connected.
“It’s a lovely group of people and a lot of them who have never had any connection to the church are now enjoying other parish events as well,” Lynn says.
“They’ve found a new connection.”
Newcastle Anglican Dungog Reverend Kimbalee Hodges pays a visit to the group each Friday before her service.
“And now they have all made a connection with her too,” Lynn adds.
“It’s lovely that everybody looks after one another.”
For more information about Dungog Cuppa and Chat contact Dungog Anglican Church.
