Alice Gumbley's 40-Year Salt and Pepper Shaker Tradition Lives On

Every year for four decades, Katikati local Alice Gumbley has quietly added a special touch to the Lions' Lone Diners Luncheon — lending her extensive collection of quirky salt and pepper shakers to dress the tables for guests. The 69-year-old hands over two basket-fulls of the condiment sets each year, complete with shakers already topped up and ready to use.

The tradition began at the very first luncheon in 1978, when the Lions approached the Katikati Red Cross — of which Gumbley and her late mother Rona were members — to borrow crockery and cutlery. When the Lions came back asking for salt and pepper shakers, Rona Gumbley stepped up without hesitation, telling her daughter to supply them. Alice has kept the tradition going ever since.

Her collection includes crystal glassware with patterned sets, porcelain animal characters, and pieces painted with fruits and flowers — some inherited from her mother, others picked up from op shops and various places as the luncheon grew in size. With between 120 and 150 guests attending annually, the Katikati News estimated Gumbley has around 40 sets she lends to the event each year. The Katikati Lions honoured her contribution formally at last year's luncheon. "I've been brought up that you help people where you can," Gumbley said.

Originally published in Katikati News (Sun Media).