Initiative to celebrate Christmas in July

LOCAL businesses, a residents’ group and a Surf Coast Shire councillor have backed a plan to bring a little sparkle to the Great Ocean Road over winter.

December brings beautiful warm sandy white beaches with stunning views to the region, and July now provides us another wonderful month of celebrating with family and friends to enjoy bright Christmas lights, decorations, events, superb dining and gorgeous coastal drives – and sometimes a surprise dusting of snow nearby.

With the success of December’s “Christmastime in the Quay” initiative, there is community interest in having it twice a year. Businesses can participate by registering on the “Surf Coast Christmastime in July on the Great Ocean Road” Facebook page, so residents and visitors can see the events and who is participating.

“Peppers The Sands Resort will be decorated for the entire month and will celebrate with a festive family night package on July 28, including a holiday themed two-course dinner, welcome drink by the fireplace, and a children’s holiday movie,” the resort’s Fiona Campbell said.

James and Lou Zocchi of the new Salty Dog Café located at The Esplanade said they were looking forward to the great fun of celebrating Christmas in July with their favourite pooches and customers – including a ‘Dress Up Your Pooch Parade’ and a mobile dog wash on July 21.

The Quay Residents Association is one of the driving forces behind the December Christmas in July event, and the association’s John De Witt said streetlamps and holiday banners would be set up at the neighbourhood’s entrances and roundabouts.

Cr Rose Hodge from the Surf Coast Shire said people came from around the world to enjoy the Great Ocean Road as well as to stay here.

“We hope that this inaugural event grows and becomes more fun in future years.

“With the weather as cold as it is, we can experience the Northern Hemisphere Christmas celebrations.”