One of the final public functions attended by departing Mount Gambier/Millicent Catholic priest Father Dean Marin was a free event hosted by Wattle Range Mayor Des Noll.

After eight years in this region, Father Dean is returning to the capital city to become Vicar-General of the Archdiocese of Adelaide.

After celebrating Mass at Beachport, Father Dean went to the Mayoral Christmas Day Lunch at the Millicent RSL Hall.

“He was warmly received and spoke to the various people present,” Mayor Noll said.

“Low in numbers, those who attended the Christmas Day lunch enjoyed the unity of being together.

“Various personal stories were shared as to why individuals were grateful to attend and vulnerable people were not forgotten.

“Clearly, it’s not about numbers attending but those who need this.

“Thank you to the volunteers who attended, giving up their personal time to support others and ensuring that as a community we do not leave anyone behind.

“It was clear that COVID was a reason for keeping people away.”

Mayor Noll had over 30 official functions to attend around Christmas-time.