Carols by Candlelight for Cafs

CHRISTOPHER O’LEARY

BALLARAT Carols by Candlelight is once again supporting Cafs by having the service provider as its major charity partner.

This year the free event will again raise funds for Cafs and promote the organisation’s work throughout the community.

Carols raised more-than $500 for the child and family service organisation from its 2025 event.

Ballarat Carols by Candlelight secretary Carolyn Bennett said the partnership tied in well to the event.

“It’s great for us because we love to support the initiatives that Cafs run, in particular their Thread Together program,” she said.

“Our event is all about families, inclusivity, and just offering a beautiful celebration to people at Christmas time, which you know it doesn’t cost them anything to come, so it just seems like a lovely fit to have that support there from Cafs as well.”

Ms Bennett, who is also Ballarat Carols by Candlelight’s production manager, said the event was important because it brought people together.

“We just really make a big effort to provide a fun atmosphere,” she said. “And so often at the end of a tough year, and families are doing it a bit financially tough at the moment, to have something that they can look forward to come along without spending a fortune.

“And they’re witnessing at the same time just some incredible local talent.”

Last year’s Carols by Candlelight attracted a crowd of more than 6000.

This year the event is set to be held on Saturday 19 December at Ballarat’s new showgrounds.

Sixt and Ballarat Agricultural and Pastoral Society will also be event partners.

Ms Bennett said Ballarat Carols by Candlelight’s committee had been managing the event since 2019.