Spirit for community carols

AN URGENT call out to the community has helped save the Hervey Bay RSL Carols by Candlelight.

The Hervey Bay RSL has helped give the gift of giving for over 10 years and this year allocated major sponsorship of $13,000 cash and in-kind support to help stage the event.

However, even with this support the carols were at risk of being cancelled due to increased costs of road closures, facilities, production, security and permits.

Thankfully a call out for help in The Advertiser saw an influx of community support including an extra $7,000 from Fraser Coast Regional Council.

This means that Luke Strochnetter from 360 Degrees Marketing and the Hervey Bay Christian Ministers Association will present the iconic event at Seafront Oval on Saturday, December 9 as a gift to the community in the spirit of the giving season.

“We are very thankful to the RSL, council and everyone who has come on board as sponsors this year. It has saved the carols” Luke said.

A major shakeup to the production of this year’s carols is sure to make it one of the best in its 25-year history.

With a 7000-strong crowd expected to attend, Luke said it was imperative the carols were done right.

“We’ve got a bigger scale production this year with a higher standard,” Luke said.

“No matter where you are sitting on the oval you will have the same experience.”

This year’s entertainment will also look a little bit different with less talking and more singing with young local performer William Ramage, Soul Sisters, students from Miss Rowe’s Music School and vocalists from the Combined Churches all taking to the stage.

There will, of course, also be a visit from Santa.

Luke said while the carols have had a makeover the heart of the event will remain the same.

“It’s about coming together as a community and having fun in a safe environment.”

There will be lots of food vendors available or bring along your own picnic to enjoy.

Gates will open at 4.30pm with the main carols program set to start at 6pm, followed by the Prime Agents Fireworks Finale at 8pm.

Follow the Hervey Bay RSL Carols by Candlelight Facebook page for more information.