Bathurst Council's embracing the Christmas spirit

Council was subject to widespread criticism last year for its lack of festive spirit leading up to the Christmas period.

Bathurst Business Chamber president Stacey Whittaker was among the chorus of community members calling for more festive cheer.

In January, she told the Western Advocate it was “a must” that council find the money to fund some Christmas decorations to provide a seasonal boost for shoppers and retailers.

“If they can always find money for anything to do with motor racing and can put up street banners and posters for all sorts of events throughout the year, then why can’t we have some money for Christmas as well?” she said at the time.

Advocate readers also spoke out about the lack of festive joy in the city’s public places.

In a survey run by the Advocate, 37 per cent of the 155 respondents said they would like to see a giant Christmas tree in a public place.

While 28 per cent wanted to see colourful lights, nine per cent wanted a nativity scene and six per cent wanted baubles and tinsel in the central business district.

And, this week deputy mayor Bobby Bourke announced that council had listened to feedback from the community.

Christmas Picnic in the Parade is on Saturday, December 2 from 5-9pm in Kings Parade with activities, music, markets and food stalls on offer for the whole family.

“Council has listened and we want to be part of the community,” Cr Bourke said of the new initiative.

“I hope a lot of families will come along, there’s going to be a Santa’s workshop with Mrs Clause and the elves.

“Council is continuing the Christmas spirit, a lot of other cities aren’t, they don’t like to say ‘Merry Christmas’ any more.”

Mayor Graeme Hanger said the picnic will bring the spirit of Christmas to the centre of Bathurst.

“There will be a variety of entertainment for the children including a jumping castle, face painting, a visit from Santa and the lighting of the Christmas tree,” he said.

“The CBD will be decorated with Christmas flags and businesses will be encouraged to dress their windows.”

Find out more on Bathurst Regional Council’s event page.