Chris Fibbens has co-ordinated the event since it started and he is just as excited about the eleventh lunch as he was about the first.

He has extended a warm welcome to all to enjoy what he says is "good company, lovely food and a visit from the fat man-in-red himself, good old Santa".

"All in all, it's a relaxed and happy get together," he said.

"Come alone if you wish, or bring a friend or make it a family outing, there's no need to book, simply turn up.

"And if you need transport on the day, contact the Community Centre at 103 Dowling Street, (phone 4992 1133) there's a good chance we can help."

The event is made possible by generous sponsors and hard working volunteers, most who have been involved with the lunch for the majority or all the 11 years.

The free lunch is held on Christmas Day between 11.30 am and 1.30 pm at the Dungog Primary School.

Use the school's Chapman Street entrance.