While Christmas carols sing-along events in Shepparton extend as far back as the 1950s, the Carols by Candlelight event that locals have come to know and love in the Queen’s Gardens annually celebrates 50 years this year.
In 1974, then-City of Shepparton mayor Bruce Wilson and town clerk Patricia Smith were keen to revive the event, which hadn’t been held for many years.
They called a meeting, after which a committee was formed, which saw Cr Wilson in the chairman’s seat and Ms Smith as secretary.
Also on the committee were Shepparton Musical Advancement Society’s Nancy Vibert and Horrie Hildebrand, Shepparton Brass Band’s Syd Curtis, Shepparton Chamber of Commerce’s Hismet Sali, Turaton Musical Company’s David Vibert, a representative from the Shepparton Pipe Band and other interested people.
The committee was supported by the city council and the annual date decided to be the last Sunday before Christmas each year, unless that date fell on Christmas Eve, then it would be the Sunday a week earlier.
Shepparton Brass Band and Turaton Musical Company provided the music and choral backing, respectively, while the Shepparton Pipe Band marched through the park playing bagpipes.
Twins Rod and Don Kilgour, who worked as local radio and TV announcers, hosted the event for its first 26 years.
While many things have changed and evolved over the years, some things remain the same, including that all organisers and entertainers at the event offer their time voluntarily.
It has also always been free for patrons to attend.
Transport was arranged to the gardens for people from aged care facilities.
That first year, 1974, more than 4000 people showed up with their picnic rugs and folding chairs to enjoy a festive and fun-filled night with their families.
The brass band sold wax candles and cold drinks from the Ducat’s van, while the audience sang along with the choir and performers on stage.
The list of artists involved in the early years included Ruth McCracken, Reg Poole, Jan Dean, Chris Eddy, The Wong Brothers, Helen Janke and Ryan Black; some of whom are still involved today.
Don Kilgour says Shepparton’s weather played a big part in its success, with crowds flocking to enjoy the warm evenings.
“In the first 25 years of Carols in the Gardens, it was only moved into the Town Hall on one occasion due to inclement weather,” he said.
“With the popularity of Carols, so many Shepparton residents attended every year and it is wonderful to see that Shepparton is now celebrating 50 years of Carols in the gardens.
“Well done, Shepparton.”
Chocolate Starfish frontman Adam Thompson will perform at this year’s milestone event while past local performers and hosts will return for guest appearances.
If a sponsor can be found, the committee also hopes to put on a rare fireworks display after permission from Greater Shepparton City Council was granted for the anniversary.
This year’s celebration will be on December 22 at the Queen’s Gardens from 6.30pm to 9.30pm.
To inquire about sponsorship, contact Maxima at Greater Shepparton City Council on 5832 9540 or email maxima.larosa@shepparton.vic.gov.au