Oscar Parry
Hume Council will explore options for hosting or funding a small-scale Carols by Candlelight event, with a focus on engaging local schools and emergency services.
The council carried a motion calling for an official report into supporting a Carols by Candlelight event in Westmeadows.
At the June 11 council meeting, Cr Naim Kurt mentioned specifically a lack of council-led Carols by Candlelight events in southern Hume, with the last event hosted in this area being in Broadmeadows in 2014.
“Since that time as a ward councillor, I’ve continued to receive strong feedback from the community to see those festivities return to our area, which has only become louder since I’ve become the mayor” Cr Kurt said.
Cr Kurt noted the success of the council-led Carols by Candlelight event held in Craigieburn and the community events hosted by the Combined Churches in Sunbury and the Bulla CFA.
He noted that Carols by Candlelight events, aside from being a festive celebration, offer benefits to local shops and can connect the community with local schools and emergency services.
Cr Haweil seconded the motion and said he would be “very happy” to receive a report about the proposed event and its rollout to ensure that the council spreads “Christmas cheer right around the entirety of the city”.
Cr Hollow supported the notice of motion, and recommended that the officers directing the report take into consideration event space, parking amenities, availability of schools and emergency services, and all event costs.
“I welcome seeing this report … as it could potentially set up a template for preparing smaller-scaled events across our fantastic city,” Cr Hollow said.
Carols by Candelight events are popular across Hume, with the average attendance at Hume Council’s annual event estimated at around 10,000 people.
An event grants program provides community groups the opportunity to apply for funding to host Carols by Candlelight events.
