Small parcels

managing director Ian Williams on local radio recently, major events of the scale of carols by candlelight at the botanical gardens don’t just happen.

It takes an enormous amount of time and effort, often by small but dedicated event teams who work tirelessly to put on an event for the enjoyment of many.

To do it well and deliver a successful event, it costs money and there are many other challenges that people often don’t fully appreciate.

Given these pressing budget restraints, especially for a smaller scale local business, what Mr Williams is seeking to do is still deliver a quality event, but at a smaller scale less impacted by the vagaries of weather. As an important member of Hobart’s creative industries sector, Mr Williams and ExitLeft need to be applauded in doing that.

Further to Ian’s very generous support of our grants initiative, I would encourage everyone to embrace the rich range of carols offerings right across Hobart this year.

The events the Hobart City Council is supporting will see seven local Christmas carols over four days, organised by community and church groups across several suburbs (see inset). I think it is now really important the community, the media and my political colleagues at the state and local level provide the necessary strong support and space for this new approach to our Hobart Christmas celebrations to develop and grow.

Let us all support and continue the strong tradition of families coming together with the community to enjoy a much-loved community event. Alderman Bill Harvey is chairman of the City of Hobart Community, Culture and Events Committee.