Nicholson Street was a picture of festive cheer as the annual Orbost Christmas Eve Festival welcomed its biggest crowd in years, drawing both locals and tourists in droves.
The street buzzed with excitement as families, friends, and visitors soaked in the vibrant atmosphere of this beloved community tradition.
“It’s always tricky to estimate numbers, but the sheer volume of items sold by stallholders and the density of the crowd stretched over a wider area suggest we’ve outdone last year,” said committee member Garry Squires.
Despite early predictions of morning showers, the weather played its part perfectly, with blue skies and mild conditions setting the stage for a day of unforgettable fun.
The event catered to all age groups, thanks to a boost in sponsorship that funded new attractions ensuring they are all free for the community to enjoy.
Little ones enjoyed a soft play area, creative arts and crafts stations, and the chance to decorate (and devour) gingerbread men.
Meanwhile, teens and adventure-seekers flocked to the ever-popular Segways, which saw record participation this year.
Santa’s setup stole the show with the addition of a gleaming fibreglass reindeer pulling his sleigh, creating a magical photo opportunity that lit up social media. Santa himself, chauffeured by the Orbost SES, delighted children with lollies and icy poles, generously provided by the Rotary Club of Orbost.
Market stalls and food vendors offered a wide variety of delights, while local clubs chipped in with their famous eats.
The Orbost Cricket Club sold more than 370 sausages, and the Orbost Hockey Club’s hot spuds were a smash hit, with 220 potatoes sold.
“This fundraiser is such a win for us,” said Bree Kenny of the Orbost Hockey Club.
“People now come looking for our spuds every year.”
Meanwhile, emergency services engaged kids with interactive displays and vintage car enthusiasts marvelled at a showcase of classic vehicles.
A highlight of the evening was the inaugural Minute to Win It Business Challenge as five local business representatives battled through flour-filled and hilarious challenges.
Travis Price of Orbost FoodWorks claimed victory in a competition that proved to be an audience favourite.
The festival also crowned the winners of its Major Lucky Shopper Competition, with prizes totalling $800 in local vouchers, which went to: Lynette Woods ($500), Tess Luchetta ($200) and Ebony Baker ($100) and announced the best-decorated Christmas lights around the district.
Tom and Sharon Jensen’s dazzling Jarrahmond Road display took top honours, delighting families exploring the streets in search of festive cheer while other properties to take prizes were 37 Bower Street, 3 Hammil Court, Cnr Livingston/Reed St and 2 Duncan St, Marlo.
Forest Park provided a picturesque venue for Carols by Candlelight and became the perfect gathering spot for the festival finale: a record-breaking fireworks display.
The expanded budget for the show paid off, as the longest display in the festival’s history lit up the night sky, leaving the audience in awe.
“The joy this festival brings to our community is immeasurable,” Orbost and District Chamber of Commerce and Industry president, Samantha Reynolds said.
“We’re already looking forward to making next year’s event even better.
“We cannot thank all our sponsors and volunteers enough for their generosity, the event is a unique blend of tradition and community spirit and this year’s event and wider festive season including the Nicholson Street decorations, Letters to Santa and Tarra St Christmas Tree all once again prove why it remains a cherished highlight on our community’s calendar and our committee are very proud to pull it off year after year.’
