General News
20 December, 2024
Celebrate Christmas With Us
The Carisbrook Lions Club will once again grab their festive aprons this Christmas and cater a community feast to ensure everyone has a place to celebrate this December 25.
Originally the brainchild of six local volunteers, the Christmas with Us luncheon has transformed into one of the largest annual charity events locally, serving all those in need for fun and food during the holiday season.
According to Carisbrook Lions Club president Jefferson Hoober, the Maryborough Harness Racing Club is expected to be jam-packed for the most wonderful time of the year.
“This year is looking to be big — so far we have around 280 booked in and I would say we will get past 300 people,” he said.
“We will have enough food for everyone, we have buses organised for people to get to and from the harness club.
“Lots of volunteers jump on board and help the Carisbrook Lions Club on the day and lots of sponsors get on board to make this day a success.”
Visitors will not leave with just a full stomach, as gifts will be handed out throughout the day for everyone in attendance.
For Mr Hoober, the free event has been a mainstay of his family’s Christmas for over two decades.
Mr Hoober said the community’s reaction to the luncheon motivates him to volunteer every year.
“Once you have done things for the community and you put smiles on people’s faces, it brings a tear to your eye and makes you want to continue,” he said.
“Christmas day is very special but it doesn’t matter if it’s Christmas day or a New Year’s Eve party or what it is, you want to see people happy.
“We might sacrifice our own Christmas day but the smiles you see and the thanks you get from families, elderly couples, and little children on the day make you realise you’re doing the right thing.
“We wouldn’t have it any other way — we wouldn’t be there if we didn’t enjoy it.”
The Christmas with Us Lunch at the Maryborough Harness Racing Club begins at 11 am.
Booking is essential by the morning of Monday, December 23 to attend the lunch and to be picked up by the organised buses.
For more information, to book for lunch and bus pick up, or to volunteer, visit or call either Maryborough IGA (5420-3508), Maggies at Chimney Cafe (0458 336 979) and the Central Goldfields Visitor Centre (5460-4511).