Karuah Carols in the Park add to the magic of Christmas Myall Coast Port Stephens by News Of The Area - Modern Media - December 20, 2024 Kids enjoyed the beautiful weather with a game of rugby. KARUAH saw an early celebration of Christmas with a double whammy of events held at the RSL and Longworth Park on Wednesday, 11 December. Starting with the Kids Christmas Party and Disco at the RSL Club, children were treated to music, prezzies and dancing along with Ruby the Clown, and a special early appearance by Santa and two of his elves. Advertise with News of The Area today. It’s worth it for your business. Message us. Phone us – (02) 4981 8882. Email us – media@newsofthearea.com.au Santa then led the kids in procession down the hill to Longworth Park for Carols by Candlelight, the first such event held by the Karuah Progress Association since COVID-19. Against the peaceful backdrop of the Karuah River, Santa’s sleigh and reindeer hosted young and old for photos. As the sun set, the Christmas lights around the park and onstage lit up for the final songs. Paul Jackson from Karuah loaned the sleigh and reindeer to the community for the event, prizes were generously donated by local businesses, and a sausage sizzle left lots of customers satisfied.. “It was great to see the whole community come out and celebrate together. Well done to Karuah Progress Association for a wonderful event,” said Chris Fraser, Karuah RSL General Manager. “The community spirit, from local business donations and local performers, to local volunteers and locals enjoying the songs and lights, is what this season is all about.” KPA Committee Member Kylie Kaye agreed: “What a great way to spread some Christmas cheer after a big year.” The carols were hosted by Katie Pranevicius and Cameron Peace. They featured performances by Chris Wilcox and performing arts group GET VOCAL. Led by teacher Katie, they sang a mix of traditional, classic and contemporary Christmas favourites. GET VOCAL teaches children and adults and its singers were excited to perform and rack up some experience. “We will be back, bigger and better next year, and want to introduce a full band in 2025,” Chris said. Marion Brown, KPA Secretary, thanked the Karuah Community for making the Carols in Longworth Park a tremendous success. “It was our first event since COVID-19, and we couldn’t have wished for a more wonderful outcome,” she said. “The music by GET VOCAL was truly outstanding, and Santa’s arrival with his sleigh brought magic to the night. “This event would not have been possible without the incredible support of the Karuah Progress Association committee, dedicated volunteers, and our generous sponsors.” By Thomas O’KEEFE Families and friends took in the afternoon and ambience at Longworth Park. Everyone joined in the carols. Santa Claus took photos with many of the Karuah kids on his patented sleigh.