General News
14 December, 2025
The music of Christmas
In perfect weather, for the third year running Hopetoun residents and visitors enjoyed “Carols By the Lake” last Sunday night.
Once again hosted by the Combined Churches of Hopetoun with support from the wider community, young and old enjoyed hearing the Christmas story in word and song.
Among the activities for children were painting Christmas balls to take home, activity sheets, helping with the Christmas Tree decorations and participating in the Nativity Tableau during the singing of Carols, ‘Silent Night’ and ‘The First Nowell.’
Face painting was also a hit among young and older alike.
The BBQ beforehand was a popular treat, cooked by members of the Men’s Shed and local churches, who assisted with the various tasks involved in such an event.
Tradition continued with the music again led by the Warracknabeal District Band and people joined the singing of carols and enjoyed items played beautifully by the Band.
Pastor Lucas Matushka once again led the evening as Compere and shared the story of St Nicholas, whose generosity began the practice of gift giving now associated with Santa Claus.
Rev Susan Pearse shared the meaning of our Christmas Tree Decorations.
The sound, provided by Tom Huf, was clear for all an made the night most enjoyable.
The Organising Group are grateful to all those who sponsored the evening through in-kind gifts and services, including many individuals as well as Community Groups, including Hopetoun Op Shop, Red Cross, Men’s Shed, Hayden and Team from IGA Hopetoun, CFA & Police, Clugston Butchers, Hopetoun Neighbourhood House, Bunnings Swan Hill and Southern Mallee Spares.
With harvest still in progress and various other events in the district, organisers were very pleased with the turnout and look forward to sharing with the community once again next year.
– SUSAN PEARSE