Stawell building on festivities

Agroup

of Stawell organisations are working together in an effort to make their city the Christmas hub of the Wimmera this month.

Stawellbiz, Lions Club Stawell, Stawell Performing Arts Company and the Lutheran Church are offering a variety of events this festive season. They are working with Northern Grampians Shire Council on the December program.

Events have already started, with a Christmas tree festival featuring Christmas trees lining Main Street for the community to decorate and sponsor.

There was also A Very Rotary Christmas movie night last Friday at Stawell Entertainment Centre.

Stawell Community Carols will be at Cato Park on Friday night, where more than 500 people are expected to gather for festive celebrations.

More than 100 decorated lanterns will illuminate the park during the event organised by Stawell Performing Arts Company.

Up until Friday, people can also continue to take part in a Main Street Christmas trail competition, where WKH\ DUH FKDOOHQJHG WR ¿QG ¿JXULQHV LQ shop windows related to the nativity scene and match the name of the shop ZLWK WKH ¿JXULQH

Entry forms are available at Waack’s Bakery, Chris and Di’s Bakery, Stawell Sportspower and Amcal PharPDF\ 2I¿FLDOV ZLOO DQQRXQFH WKH winner during the Christmas carols, starting at 7pm.

Before the carols, an annual Main Street Christmas Parade, co-ordinated by Stawellbiz, will make its way through Stawell’s shopping heart. The parade will start at 6.30pm.

From Saturday to December 24, children will be able to have photographs with Santa at shop 108 in Main Street.

“There’s plenty happening for all, so it’s a good opportunity for the Stawell community to come together” – Murray Emerson

Northern Grampians councillor Karen Hyslop said it was important for the community to make the most of and enjoy the events.

³,W¶V D JUHDW WLPH WR UHOD[ DQG UHÀHFW on the year,” she said.

“With Christmas trees lining the streets in town it’s creating a great atmosphere and we’re looking forward to being a part of the festivities.”

Cr Murray Emerson said the variety of events provided something for everyone.

“There’s plenty happening for all, so it’s a good opportunity for the Stawell community to come together,” he said.

“It’s a special time of the year, so we’d like everyone to come along and join in the festivities.”