Santa to swap snow for the sand

A PAIR of Christmas loving locals have excitingly convinced Santa Claus to trade in his beloved snow and get the sand between his toes on the Surf Coast this festive season.

Later this year, Santa will be riding his sleigh into Torquay and stationing himself under the canopies at Taylors Park for six weeks to take Christmas photos with families, children and pets.

Surf Coast locals and business entrepreneurs Michele Scarce and Kath Brew are behind Surf Coast Santa, a concept which combines their love for the Surf Coast, the ocean, nature and Christmas.

The focus of the new project is aimed at bringing the community together and making Christmas photos a pleasant experience for all, with the gorgeous backdrop of the surf and the bush helping to shape invaluable memories for local families.

Surf Coast Santa co-founder Michele Scarce said she is over the moon to finally be launching the passion project.

“Kath, who is a professional photographer, and I had this amazing idea in the pipeline for a while and thought photos at the beach, on the Surf Coast just made sense.

“The ease and convenience for families not to have to drive to a shopping complex and have to fight the crazy, Christmas crowds, is such a bonus.

“This sort of experience combines everything we love about the Surf Coast.

“The photos will be welcome to everyone including our little fur babies.

“We’ve also got in touch with various special needs associations and schools.

“This concept will accommodate to their sensory overload and bring them back to nature and open air, where they are the happiest and not over stimulated.

“We truly can’t wait and are so stoked to have launched this magical project.”

The local pair have also partnered with the Salty Dog Café for the initiative, who will be providing free bubbachinos and puppachinos for those after they’ve visited Santa.

The Christmas Santa photos package of $85 will include one photo with Santa and immediate family, one family photo (without Santa), one sibling portrait (just kids) and one couple photo (no kids), with an option to bring pets along too.

All five high resolutions photos will be delivered in a personalized online gallery and delivered within 48 hours, unless advised otherwise.

Surf Coast Santa will kick off on Friday, November 3 and extend until December 16.

Photos will be available to be taken on Fridays and Saturdays.

To book, head to https://kbrewphotography.pixieset.com/booking/surfcoast-santa

Those who register, will get a welcome pack and information prior to their photos on what to expect on the day.