By John Baker Rotary Club of Richmond, NSW
The Rotary Club of Richmond, NSW, is fostering community spirit through tradition and music at its annual Carols in the Park.
For nearly half a century, the Rotary Club of Richmond has been the heart and soul behind one of the most cherished events in the Hawkesbury community – Carols in the Park. This annual tradition, now in its 48th year, has become a beloved fixture in the Hawkesbury community, drawing families, friends and neighbours together to celebrate the festive season with song, joy and a sense of unity.
A legacy of service
The Rotary Club of Richmond, known for its steadfast commitment to service and community engagement, has been the driving force behind Carols in the Park since its inception.
The event is not just a celebration of the Christmas spirit but also a testament to the enduring values of fellowship, philanthropy and local involvement that Rotary embodies.
The birth of a tradition
What began as a modest gathering has grown into a much-anticipated annual spectacle. The first Carols in the Park was held in 1976 under the auspices of then president Jim Carrey. It was initiated by a group of dedicated Rotarians who envisioned a community-centred event that would bring people together through the universal language of music.
Over the years, the event has evolved, but its core purpose has remained unchanged: to foster a sense of community and to spread Christmas cheer. The Rotary Club of Richmond has organised this event every year since 1976, apart from 2020, when it was cancelled due to the COVID pandemic.
The event takes place in Richmond Park and now has an attendance of approximately 2,000 to 3,000 people each year.
PICTURED: Soloist Meera Webster at the 2023 Carols in the Park.
Organisation and planning
Planning for Carols in the Park begins months in advance. Club members work to ensure that every detail of the event is meticulously executed. From arranging the program and selecting performers to coordinating logistics and engaging sponsors, the organisation of Carols in the Park is a major undertaking. The commitment and dedication of the Rotarians involved is evident in the seamless execution of the event year after year.
A night to remember
On the evening of the event, the park is transformed into a wonderland, adorned with twinkling lights, festive decorations and a grand stage.
The air is filled with the sound of children’s laughter, the aroma of delicious food from local vendors and the melodies of beloved Christmas carols.
The program typically features a mix of local entertainment groups, and solo performers, each bringing their unique flair to the festivities.
One of the highlights of the evening is the community sing-along, where attendees join in to sing classic carols, creating a powerful and moving sense of togetherness.
The sight of families and friends, huddled together under the stars, their voices united in song, encapsulates the true spirit of Carols in the Park.
The Richmond RAAF Base always makes an invaluable contribution by using their radar facilities to track the arrival of Santa, who always makes an appearance with gifts of lollies for the children.
Community impact
Beyond the joy and entertainment it provides, Carols in the Park has a significant impact on the Hawkesbury community. The event serves as a fundraising opportunity for the Rotary club, with proceeds supporting various local and international charitable initiatives. Over the years, funds raised from Carols in the Park have been used to support educational programs, provide healthcare services and aid disaster relief efforts, among other worthy causes.
Moreover, the event brings together people of all ages and backgrounds, fostering a sense of inclusivity and shared purpose. It offers a platform for local talent to shine and for community members to connect, creating lasting memories and strengthening bonds.
Testament to Resilience
The Rotary Club of Richmond’s dedication to Carols in the Park is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the people of the Hawkesbury who have endured the challenges of floods, bushfires and, of course, the global pandemic.
PICTURED: Attendees of all ages enjoyed The Richmond Rotary Carols Band at last year’s Carols in the Park.
Looking to the Future
As the Rotary Club of Richmond celebrates 48 years of Carols in the Park, there is a palpable sense of excitement and anticipation for the future. Plans are already underway for the 50th anniversary, which promises to be a grand celebration of music, community and the enduring spirit of the club.
The club’s commitment to service and community engagement remains as strong as ever, and the legacy of Carols in the Park is a shining example of what can be achieved when people come together with a shared vision and purpose.
A beacon of unity
Carols in the Park stands as a beacon of unity, joy and community spirit. Thanks to the unwavering dedication of the Rotary Club of Richmond, this annual tradition continues to bring light and music into the lives of many, reminding us all of the power of coming together to celebrate, support and uplift one another.
Here’s to many more years of Carols in the Park and the lasting impact it will continue to have on the Hawkesbury community.
The 2024 Richmond Carols in the Park will be held on Sunday, December 15, in Richmond Park on Windsor St, Richmond, NSW. Festivities kick off at 7pm, but people with picnic blankets start arriving from 5:30pm to get a good position in front of the stage. The Rotary Club of Richmond sells sausage and onion rolls from 6pm on the night.
MAIN PICTURE: Hawkesbury singer/songwriter Luciano Mesiti was joined by Santa (aka Sean Killen) at the 2023 Carols in the Park.
