While the majority of Australians enjoy the company of family and friends, many spend this special day alone.

For a growing number of residents living in the Great Lakes Christmas Day also is a day when strangers become friends, celebrating this special occasion with a free lunch at Forster’s Catholic church.

Since 1986 the church has provided a free lunch for anyone and everyone who turns up.

The original event – which attracted just 10 people –  was organised by Fr Tony Brady who was concerned about the people being alone on Christmas Day.

Over the past 30 plus years numbers to the lunch have swelled to about 50 people, who gather together to share the lunch and the company of others in the church hall.

Long-time organiser, Greg Byrne hoped to welcome a similar crowd through the doors again in 2017.

No need to be alone.

“No-one wants to admit they are lonely,” Mr Byrne said.

“This is a community function to share the joy of the  Christmas season; there is no need to be alone,” he said.

The lunch gives people a place to gather and celebrate, in which everyone plays a part in preparing the meal and share in the family atmosphere of the day.

Christmas Day lunch at the Catholic church hall had become a tradition for Mr Byrne and his five children, and now grandchildren.

The family has been volunteering since the event began, along with an enthusiastic group of volunteers.

Festivities will begin at 11.30am when the volunteers arrive, while meals of chicken and salad are served between 12.30-1pm.