Sing out with joy

MORE than 450 locals turned out for a night of singing and festive fun at the Portarlington Community Carols over the weekend.

Attendees enjoyed performances from several local talents, a visit from Santa and a live nativity scene put on by children who dressed up as angels and wise men.

This year there was even a real-life baby Jesus.

Event organiser and MC Julie Rock said this year’s event was “fabulous”.

“We had great weather, we had lots of crowd engagement, and our artists were fantastic.”

“I really enjoy being able to showcase local talent so we try and have performers that are just local people that might be up-and-coming or people that are recording, or that are not super well-known so that we can promote their interest in the industry.”

The beloved community event has now been running for 23 years.

“It just brings the community together,” Ms Rock said.

“Portarlington loves a good festival and community event so it’s just a really nice addition at the end of the year for everyone to just come together, sing some carols and remember what Christmas is all about.”