Joy and unity was the message of Sunday’s Carols by Candlelight event, organised by the Geraldton Christian Churches.
The evening kicked off with free children’s activities, including pony rides and face painting, while representatives from Fusion led games like tug-o-war. Food trucks from local businesses proved a hit, with Skeetas and JB Cuisine providing the night’s dinner options.
The Geraldton City Band provided the backing for most of the night. Local bands Revenant and Heading Home opened the musical part of the night with some rock hymns.
The carols were led by community singers, whose harmonies inspired the crowd to join in with such classics as Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer, Hark The Herald Angels Sing, Silent Night, O Come All Ye Faithfu,l and Joy To The World.
MCs Eliot Vlatko and Jenny Box encouraged the gathering to make some noise and wave their glowsticks before City of Greater Geraldton mayor Jerry Clune welcomed the crowd. He said it was fantastic to see the community come together for a “joyous occasion” after last week’s devastating fire.
Ben Rollett, a local teacher, led the opening prayer. It was his first time reading at Carols by Candlelight, which he described as a “privilege”, and “very special”.
Waggrakine Primary School performed some Australian-themed Christmas carols, with two young didgeridoo players showing their skill. The school was at risk last week, with firefighters saving it from the fire which reached its doorstep, but the students carried on with their confident performance.
St Francis Xavier Cathedral’s young choristers belted out their hymns as the crowd waved their electric candles and proud parents rushed to the front of the stage to cheer on their children.
“You could probably see these lights from Perth,” Ms Box said.
