General News
21 December, 2023
Celebrate Christmas With Us
For nearly 25 years, the Christmas With Us event has ensured that everyone in the local community can celebrate Christmas. The free event will once again be hosted by the Carisbrook Lions Club with president Jefferson Hoober expecting a day just as...
For nearly 25 years, the Christmas With Us event has ensured that everyone in the local community can celebrate Christmas.
The free event will once again be hosted by the Carisbrook Lions Club with president Jefferson Hoober expecting a day just as big and special as 2022.
“Last year we catered for around 280 people with all of the volunteers there and we are expecting similar numbers this year,” he said.
“Christmas should be a special time for everyone and no one should be at home lonely.
“It is a great day with lunch, presents and entertainment for everyone to enjoy.”
Mr Hoober said the continued support for the event after two decades of running is staggering and can sometimes overwhelm him.
“I want to thank everyone that has jumped on board and supported us this year. The volunteers, the sponsors, the harness racing club who make the day possible for giving us the venue, just the level of community support is staggering,” he said.
“Over the years the whole community has backed the day, with a lot of volunteers helping us throughout the years.
“Even donations from people and organisations like Maryborough Community Services or Mitre 10 who gives a gift voucher to everyone that comes on the day.
“There was even a person who walked in and gave us $1000 for the event, the level of generosity during this time of the year in this community is special.”
Mr Hoober said he is more then happy to sacrifice some of his time each Christmas just to see how the event can have a positive effect on people.
“It is a very proud thing to be a part of — you see the smiles on people’s faces and being greatful for the day, it’s a joyous experience,” he said.
“It is an amazing thing to do, everyone jumps on board and helps us. It brings tears to your eyes and you get a lump in your throat when you see the happiness of everyone on the day.”
Bookings are still open and are essential to attend. To book for the lunch that starts at 11 am, and to be transported by the free shuttle bus, go to Maryborough IGA, Chimney Cafe, or the Central Goldfields Visitor Centre.