Stars and locals give the gift of song

Published on 14 December 2020

Arias in the Outback stars Brad Cooper, Clarissa Spata, and Michael Curtain will join X-Factor grand finalist Andrew Wishart to headline a huge local Christmas concert online.

The duo will be joined by Hazel Symonds, Alan Pearce, Arliah Pearce, Abbey Johns, Bowden and Riley McAllister, Silver Notes School of Music, local primary school choirs, and many more.

Council's Events team organised the concert to bring some extra festive cheer to the community after traditional Christmas events were cancelled due to COVID-19.

"With Carols by Candlelight and the Christmas Pageant both unable to go ahead due to COVID-19 restrictions we got together and came up with the idea of an online concert," said Council's Events Coordinator, Rachel Merton.

"Of course nothing can replace the magic of those events, but hopefully the concert gives locals something to enjoy after what has been a difficult year.

"And the support from both national performers and the local community has been fantastic, everyone has been really enthusiastic and keen to contribute."

The concert will be streamed from the Civic Centre Facebook page from 7pm on December 19, and will feature Christmas favourites such as 'Oh Holy Night', 'Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer' and 'Rockin Around the Christmas Tree'.

There will also be Christmas messages from the Mayor and Councillors, Council staff, and even a few appearances by Santa himself.

"It's been a really fun project and I want to thank all the staff and community members who gave up their time to make it happen," said Rachel.

"Although it will be streamed on December 19, locals who would prefer to watch it closer to Christmas can do so on our YouTube channel.

"We hope everyone enjoys the show and has a great Christmas!"