JUST as the Christmas Grinch in the Dr Seuss book eventually had a change of heart, so too has Bathurst Regional Council in relation to bringing some festive spirit to our city this year.
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And not before time.
Council came under some heavy criticism for the lack of Christmas decorations in the central business district last December, at a time when both Orange and Dubbo seemed focus on going the extra mile to get their city centres in the festive mood.
In contrast, the Bathurst CBD was home to bare lamp standards and shop awnings down William Street, though council defended the minimalist approach by saying it had illuminated the civic centre with snowflakes.
The community didn’t think that was enough, we didn’t think that was enough and, quite vocally, the Bathurst Business Chamber didn’t think that was enough.
In fact, the lack of festive spirit began to sour relations between the council and the chamber – a split that would have done neither side any good.
But that was then. Twelve months on, council has seen the error of its ways and agreed to fund not only CBD decorations but also a Christmas picnic in Kings Parade featuring activities, music, markets and food stalls on offer for the whole family.
It will be a great way to start the countdown to Christmas and a great way for council to show its support for local businesses and the local community.
Because, as we said last year, Christmas in Australia goes far beyond a religious celebration if the birth of Christ.
It is a season for giving and for recognising that there are those among us who are doing it tough. It is a time for charity and for helping people in need.
It is a time for family and for reconnecting with relatives you may not see or speak to as often as you would like throughout the year.
It is a time for children, a time for looking through their eyes at the world with magic and wonder.
It is a season for reflection, for looking back at the year gone by and celebrating victories while commiserating losses.
And it is a time of hope, a time to look forward at the year ahead and all the potential it holds.
These are the reasons it’s only right for council to take a leading role in bringing the community together at this time. Council has heard the criticism and has responded– and that’s something else worth celebrating.
