Song sheets for season spirit

Students from Chairo Christian College are getting geared up for the Carols by Candlelight. Back row: Ryan, Tahnee, Jenika, Tanner, Cardinia Shire Mayor Graeme Moore, Nathan, Julio and James. Middle row: Sharon, Matilda, Georgia, Taitym, Amy, Misty, Mariah, Jessica, Jessia, Enya and Jasmine. Front row: Celeste, Emmaliegh, Sune, Coby, Jacob, Tahlia and Natile the sheep. Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS 110420_03

PULL out the candles and carol book because Pakenham’s Carols by Candlelight is in back in town.
The annual event is on Sunday 8 December at its new venue, Toomuc Valley Reserve on the Princes Highway in Pakenham.
The council is presenting the event for the first time this year with the support of many local businesses and community groups.
Cardinia Shire Mayor Graeme Moore said the carols would bring the community together and give everyone the chance to get into the Christmas spirit.
“We hope this will be the biggest and best Pakenham Carols by Candlelight yet.
“I’m really looking forward to the evening and, especially, to hearing the marvellous Cardinia Civic Concert Band who, I understand, have been regularly rehearsing to perfect their Christmas harmonies,” Cr Moore said.
“I’d like to thank the many local businesses and community groups helping council deliver this event, and especially acknowledge artistic director Kim Thomsen for the hard work she is now putting in to coordinate the production.
“It will be great to see residents young and old there, hopefully all in fine voice!”
Highlights will include the 30-piece Cardinia Civic Concert Band playing a selection of classic and much-loved Christmas tunes, and will be accompanied by a community choir.
Santa has confirmed he will be flying direct from the North Pole to make a grand appearance.
The night will end on a colourful note with a dazzling fireworks display.
“Council encourages those coming along to spread out a rug on the grass, bring along a picnic and make the most of this local tradition,” he said.
The event has a new home at Toomuc Reserve as “a larger venue than Lakeside was needed, given the celebration gets bigger every year”.
“It’s also safer and more secure as the reserve is fully fenced.”
Some food and drinks will be available for purchase on the night, with proceeds going to local community groups.
Gates open at 6.30pm, with entertainment from local schools starting at 7pm.
Pakenham Carols by Candlelight is an alcohol free event and the council also requests that attendees make it a smoke free occasion.
No pets are allowed.
For more event information contact the council on 1300 787 624 or c.strengthening@cardinia.vic.gov.au.