At TriCare Mt Gravatt, one resident’s love of knitting is bringing comfort to patients well beyond our walls.
Marie has a true passion for knitting and spends much of her free time creating beautiful handmade items. She is
one of our most enthusiastic residents, always ready to join in an activity, and since moving into our Mt Gravatt aged care residence she
has crafted beanies, scarves, vests and mobile phone holders using wool.
Marie learned to knit at just eight years old, taught by her mother. More than 50 years later, she still loves it as
much as ever. “The skills and passion she passed on to me have stayed with me throughout the years,” Marie
says.
Over those five decades, Marie has knitted thousands of jumpers – her specialty and the item she is best known
for – along with countless other pieces. “It is hard to choose just one favourite,” she says.
Giving back, one beanie at a time
Marie has always loved knitting for other people. She has made mobile phone holders as gifts for staff over the
years, and it was a request from staff member Leonie that set her on the path to her biggest project yet. Leonie
asked Marie if she could knit a beanie for her son, who was undergoing cancer treatment. Marie was happy to
help – and what started as one beanie grew into 14, with two made especially for Leonie’s son and the rest
donated to the hospital for other patients to enjoy.
“Knowing that something handmade could provide comfort and warmth during a difficult time was very
rewarding,” Marie says. She went on to knit another 36 beanies, all donated to the cancer ward.
A generous donation inspires more giving
Last Christmas, Mt Gravatt received a generous donation of four large bags of wool. Marie was delighted, and
immediately set to work creating colourful beanies in a range of styles and colours. As each one came off her
needles, her wish was the same: to give back to the community.
Marie has decided to donate this latest batch of beanies to patients at the Princess Alexandra (PA) Hospital,
continuing the generous spirit that has already brought warmth to so many.
Community and connection
Marie’s knitting is also a source of connection at Mt Gravatt. She attends the knitting club every Wednesday
afternoon, spending time with fellow residents who share her love of craft. “It is a lovely opportunity to
socialise, exchange ideas, and continue a hobby that I have enjoyed for many years,” she says. Interestingly,
Marie has kept her hospital donations largely to herself – most of the knitting club has no idea of the impact she
has had beyond Mt Gravatt.
As for what’s next, Marie isn’t planning to put her needles down any time soon. “I will most likely continue
knitting beanies and jumpers, as they are my favourite items to make and can be very useful for others,” she
says. “Knitting has been a part of my life for more than 50 years, so I do not think I will be stopping anytime
soon.”
Marie’s creativity, dedication and generosity have become an inspiration to residents and staff alike at Mt
Gravatt. Her story shows how meaningful activities can bring joy, purpose and connection – while also making
a real difference in the wider community.
Thanks for your kindness, and for sharing your story, Marie!
