The Katherine Homeschool Group’s annual Christmas bake-up started four years ago as a way for the young children and their families to give back to the community. 

“Each year, home-schooled children from the Katherine region get together for a fun day of baking and decorating Christmas cookies,” organiser Jen Bauer said. 

“We wake up early and bake all day, and then we hand them out to medical staff at the Katherine Hospital children's ward, the emergency ward, the fire station and St John Ambulance,” she said. 

This year, more than 140 cookies were handed out – more than any year in the past. 

“We wanted to teach the kids it is nice to thank emergency services and spread Christmas cheer,” Mrs Bauer said. 

“It is also a great way for the kids to spend time together, while learning to give back and be grateful,” she said. 

The Katherine Homeschool Group is based in Katherine and offers home-schooled children and their families a chance to get together throughout the year to participate in activities. 

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