For Aileen Timmerman, Saturday’s garden fete at Carrick offered far more than just an opportunity to support medical research – it was a chance to reunite with the home she grew up in.
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Mrs Timmerman was born at Hattondale Farm on the banks of the Liffey River and proudly called it home for 18 years, before moving to Melbourne.
On Saturday she returned to the property for the first time since, as the farm hosted the Friends of Clifford Craig annual garden fete.
The event serves as the biggest fundraiser for the volunteer-based group, with more than $10,000 raised on the day for the Clifford Craig Foundation.
Mrs Timmerman said the fete felt like coming home, with the visit also coinciding with her wedding anniversary.
“When I heard about the fete, it seemed like the perfect reason to finally come home,” she said.
“One of the first things I did was wander over to one of the big trees where there used to be a swing, and I got a bit teary.
“I also have a scar on my leg from that big oak tree over there.
“It is wonderful to be here and seeing the farm look so good.”
Ms Timmerman was one of a few hundred people who attended the fete, featuring several acres of picturesque gardens, stalls, live music and Devonshire tea.
Held at a different property each year, Hattondale Farm owner Lynn Presnell said it was an honour to host the worthy cause.
“Clifford Craig does such important work and the committee behind this event couldn’t be more hardworking,” she said.
“Knowing where this money will go and being able to see everyone here enjoying the farm – we are only too happy to support it.”
Friends of Clifford Craig president Toni Maloney, who will be stepping down from her role at the end of the year to focus on her health, said it was a wonderful day.
“We have had a steady stream of people since 10am and I expect that to continue until 4pm,” she said.
“There is such a wonderful atmosphere here and everyone seems to be really enjoying themselves.
“That is the most important thing.
“Knowing how hard everyone works to put together an event like this, it is great to see the community supporting us and continuing to support the Clifford Craig Foundation.”