Jingle all the way with Glenhaven Carols by Candlelight 2024
The Glenhaven Carols by Candlelight returns for its twenty-fourth year transforming Glenhaven Oval into a festive wonderland on December 8, 2024. The event has become a fixture of Christmas in Glenhaven, with the oval filling with thousands of residents to celebrate the festive season.
It all started in 2000 when a local Glenhaven RFS volunteer was looking for fundraising opportunities for the Brigade. She approached Donna Fraser, a community worker at the former Glenhaven Community Centre, about starting a Carols in Glenhaven.
Donna contacted local organisations – Emmanuel Church Glenhaven, Before and After School Care, Glenhaven Public School and local Rotary clubs. The first year saw over 800 people and the event has grown every year since. We now see over 4000 people.
Donna is still on the committee and Glenhaven Rural Fire Brigade is still heavily involved in the event, which is now hosted by Friends of Glenhaven. The Hills SES also assists on the night. In 24 years, there have only been two occasions where the event did not proceed.
A violent storm in the late 2000’s and 2020 – COVID! In the following year, the committee decided to take the event to the next level. A bigger stage and more sophisticated performances with the North West Wind Ensemble and Castle Hill RSL Youth Wind Orchestra entertaining the crowd with carols. The Hills Shire Council provided a grant and local businesses increased their sponsorships.
In 2023, and again this year, Harvey Norman came on board as the Major Sponsor. The Glenhaven Carols is now the biggest Christmas event in The Hills.
“We are truly grateful for what the Carols event has become and the support the community shows each year. There is excitement building yet again!” said Louise Hedges, member of the Friends of Glenhaven’s Carols Committee.
“Each year the community comes together on this great night to relax and celebrate. It’s a real community event with our local Glenhaven Rural Fire Service and The Hills SES Unit assisting on the night. Entry is a gold coin to our emergency services volunteers at the gate.
To enhance inclusivity, The Fit Kidz Foundation provides a sensory breakout tent at the Carols this year, for individuals with neurodivergent needs, a disability or sensory needs. This space provides resources and activities to individuals who may require some time in a quieter space. This breakout space will hopefully make Glenhaven Carols more accessible to all of our community.
Friends of Glenhaven’s Carols Committee organise the event which also showcases local talent all set to entertain:
• REID THE MUSIC: This award winning school has been awarded Most Outstanding New Business and Most Outstanding Education Service in the Local Business Awards providing music education to many preschools in the area.
• JENNA’S SINGING SCHOOL: Established in 2008 by industry professional Jenna Ingram, The Hills District based studios are known for their elite standard and expertise in one-onone tuition and small group classes. Classes are tailored to suit the individual depending on what their personal goals are.
• SISTER2SISTER SCHOOL OF SINGING – Led by ARIA Award Winning Multi Platinum Selling Singer/Songwriters Christine & Sharon Muscat, the school was established in 2004. Their specialised singing school offers complimentary tuition in music, drama and dancing along with varied workshops, on-site recording studio and ample performance opportunities.
• CASTLE HILL RSL YOUTH WIND ORCHESTRA and CASTLE HILL RSL NORTH WEST WIND Ensemble have a proud tradition of being regarded as Australia’s finest symphonic wind bands. North West Wind Ensemble provides adult performers with outstanding opportunities to perform a diverse range of quality wind band repertoire.
The Youth Wind Orchestra was established in 1996, and this 60–65-piece community wind orchestra provides young musicians with the same exciting opportunities. Musical and artistic direction by James Brice OAM and conductor Australian composer and North West Wind Ensemble horn player, Tim Ferrier.
• HILLS DISTRICT PIPE BAND – formed in 1970, the band values the camaraderie of its members, the importance of upholding the traditions of Scottish music, the renewal of the band through young members and the loyal support and friendship of our community and sponsors.
On Sunday 8 December there will be food, rides and attractions with the event starting at 4pm. Santa will be coming to town and the firework finale starts at 9.00pm.
“Without the generous support of The Hills Shire Council, Harvey Norman, local businesses such as fireworks sponsor Louis Carr Real Estate, West Pennant Hills Sports Club, Kindalin and Eden Brae Homes amongst many other local businesses, this event simply wouldn’t be able to proceed”, added Louise Hedges.
