Everyone who knows Bernice Matthews knows she is rarely without a knitting needle or crochet hook in hand.

As well as keeping her busy in the evenings, her craft brings her a quiet sense of enjoyment – something she’s loved doing for as long as she can remember.  

Whether she’s knitting, crocheting or piecing together patchwork, Bernice simply enjoys the rhythm of it. 

“It keeps me occupied and it’s just something I enjoy doing,” she said. 

“I like to have something in my hands in the evening while I’m watching TV.” 

Most days you’ll find Bernice creating blankets, table runners and placemats, some of which are sold through the Montville Arts and Crafts shop. Her beautifully detailed pram covers, made up of 24 small pieces carefully stitched together, have proven especially popular. 

And when she’s not crafting for the shop, Bernice is making simple crochet blankets to donate to the Maleny Community Centre. It’s a quiet act of kindness that reflects the generous spirit she brings to life at Maleny Grove. 

The 89-year-old was one of the first residents to move to the community in 2011 with late husband Bryce. 

Originally from South Australia, she first discovered the beauty of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland on a holiday in 1981. These days life at Maleny Grove is about companionship.  

Bernice added: “We all help each other. It’s a lovely way to live.”