A taste of home for local expats on Bondi Beach

Three Kells natives were among those who helped launch a new Christmas hamper business aimed at the Irish in Australia. Alan Smyth, his wife Lorraine (nee Garvey) and her sister, Ailish Garvey, all now live in Sydney and will be looking forward to spending this Christmas Day on Bondi beach. They say they will miss Christmas at home with their families but say they are lucky to have their own little family gathering in Sydney. Lorraine said: "You do feel homesick around this time of year, but there are so many Irish here in Australia in the same boat, that everyone really pulls together to make the most of the country at our feet right now - plus it's nice to have the beach and sun to help you get over it!" The trio recently attended the launch on Bondi Beath of Australia's Irish food product supplier, 'Taste Ireland' when the company launched its Christmas hamper and stocking gift service. The online company - www.tasteireland.com.au - is now taking orders for the Christmas season, allowing families and friends of people now living in Australia to send them a taste of Ireland this festive season. For those unable to make a trip back to the northern hemisphere for Christmas, Taste Ireland can bring a piece of home to expats throughout Australia and New Zealand to ward off homesickness. Products include rare treats in the Antipodes, including favourites such as Tayto crisps, Kimberley biscuits, Ballymaloe Relish and Club Orange, not to mention the cherished Cadbury's chocolate selection.