Speaking of change in the air, I’d like to take this opportunity to welcome our new Campaspe Shire Councillors to their roles and join with the mayor in wishing all community members a happy and safe holiday season.
If we have young children in our family or friendship circles, the season can be a particularly magical time as we get caught up in their enthusiasm for all things Christmas-themed.
Of course, there is no shortage of festive activities for those lucky enough to live in Campaspe Shire.
If you’re looking to add to the festive magic, why not schedule a visit to Santa’s Cave in Kyabram, which is open from December 14 to 22 between 11am and 5pm at Kyabram Town Hall in Allen St; or perhaps the Festival of Christmas Trees from December 14 to 21 between 10am to 2pm at Echuca-Moama Uniting Church in Hare St, Echuca.
Younger children and toddlers may enjoy our Christmas-themed Storytime and Rhymetime sessions, which are happening at the Echuca, Kyabram, Rochester, Rushworth and Tongala libraries, and also at a pop-up location at Gunbower Butter Factory.
A couple of fun activities that don’t need to fit into a specific daily timeframe are the Rochester Scavenger Hunt — in which kids can help Santa to find his missing reindeer at six iconic locations in Rochester and be in the running to win weekly prizes — and the Tongala Hay Bale Trail which is active now and right through until January 8.
Let’s not forget our fantastic Illumination Stations in Echuca, Kyabram and Rochester, too, which offer spectacular displays once the sun goes down.
For more details on all these activities and many more around Campaspe Shire — including the always wonderful Christmas carols events, visit Council’s Events page at https://www.campaspe.vic.gov.au/Recreation-events/Events
Meanwhile, Campaspe Shire Council is sponsoring a shire-wide Christmas Lights Competition, with the winners to receive a slice of $1000 in gift vouchers.
Competition entries closed on November 27, but you can still use the Christmas Lights map to take a tour of the displays and vote for your favourites.
Whatever way you choose to spend the lead-up to Christmas this year, we urge you to take advantage of all our beautiful Campaspe Shire has to offer with your family and friends, helping to make this time of year a true celebration of community spirit and connection.
Warm regards
Pauline Gordon
Campaspe Shire Council CEO
