Santa run for Bacchus Marsh and surrounds

RESIDENTS of Bacchus Marsh and surrounds are getting set to welcome a very popular seasonal visitor.

The area’s local fire brigades, supported by Community Bank Bacchus Marsh, have recently let slip that Santa Claus will be touring the streets this Saturday 20 December from 12pm.

“He’ll be spreading cheer, handing out lollies, and bringing plenty of Christmas spirit to the community,” community safety manager with Bacchus Marsh Fire Brigade Chris Small said.

The local Santa Run has been a much-loved annual fixture for more than three decades, and over the years has become a cornerstone of the Christmas period in Bacchus Marsh for many brigade members.

“I have fond memories as a child of the truck coming past with Santa on the back,” Mr Small said.

“It’s amazing to be able to continue to drive and grow the initiative for current and future generations.

“For the community it helps to maintain and drive connectivity with the Bacchus Marsh Fire Brigade and CFA.

“As a volunteer organisation it’s important for that connection with the brigade and its membership, and this event helps to build and maintain that.

“This year we’ve consolidated the runs from three routes to two, whilst also widening it to include other stops.

“This will be the first year we head into Merrimu, Long Forest and Hopetoun Park areas, and we are excited to be able to expand our reach.

“Last year we trialled an online route tracker that allowed the public to view in real time the location of the trucks along the routes.”

The online route tracker proved to be a great success and will once again be used this time, Mr Small said.

“This year we will also be aligning the first stop on the Darley route with the Darley Christmas Market,” he said. “Being able to partner and support other events occurring within the community is incredible.”

Mr Small said the main aim of the annual Santa Run tradition is purely to “spread joy and promote the spirit of the festive period whilst also allowing the community to engage with the brigades attending.

“This event is not possible without generous support from the Bacchus Marsh Community Bank.

“They have partnered with the brigade for a number of years and their ongoing support is greatly appreciated.

“We can’t wait to see everyone again this year. Mark your calendars and get ready for a festive afternoon.”

Santa will be making his way through Bacchus Marsh and Maddingley, stopping at parks and playgrounds along the way, while also paying visits to Darley, Merrimu and Hopetoun Park.

The full run itinerary is on the Bacchus Marsh Fire Brigade’s Facebook page.