From Left: Honnie Coffee, Janelle Hamill, Darlene Lye and Maille Stegga

The way Loretta Stegga sees it, a whole generation of Kiama locals have been looked after at the Leisure Centre at some time by Janelle Hamill.

“She’s worked at the crèche for close to twenty years, and helped with the school holiday  programs, so she’s looked after lots of children,” says Loretta.

“I’ve got a 16 year old and a five year old, and I wouldn’t have been able to use the gym as much as I have without them wanting to come along. She loves children, and they love her.”

Janelle is currently having treatment for breast cancer, meaning she is unable to keep up her casual work at the Centre.

“A group of us are keen to raise some money to help her through this period, and we knew right from the start we wanted to do something where she could see families enjoying themselves,” says Loretta.

Their first fundraiser, a kids’ disco, was a great success, but they are hoping their next effort will reach a wider audience of families who have appreciated Janelle’s work over the years.

They’ve enlisted Janelle’s son, Myles Cooley, a keen photographer, to take family portraits in 15 minute sessions and email the results out to participants.

“We’re organising a great backdrop, and there will also be a photo booth element if people want to dress up for some of them,” says Loretta.

“It’s going to be great fun, and Janelle is really going to enjoy seeing the results before they are sent out.”

The sessions aren’t restricted to families with children, but open to anyone who wants to help out a good cause.

Details: Sat 8 July (2-5pm) and Sun 9 July (9-1pm), Kiama Leisure Centre, $25 for 15 minute session with photos emailed out.
To book email misshollyp@hotmail.com or call Nikki 0423 785 161 or Loretta 0417 671 220