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Santa swaps sleigh for sirens at Stanhope carols

By Kyabram Free Press

Dec 23, 2025

Santa made a special appearance at Stanhope’s annual Christmas carols, getting a lift from Stanhope CFA on the back of one of its trucks. Photo by Supplied

Santa got a lift from the local firies to visit the children of Stanhope at the town’s annual carols event on Friday, December 12.

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As the sun set over McEwen Place and temperatures settled to a pleasant evening warmth, families and friends came together for carols, with community singing beautifully led by Donald Campbell and accompanied by the talented Rushworth & District Concert Band.

Performances delighted audiences, featuring talented students from Stanhope and St Mary’s Rushworth primary schools alongside local musicians Claire Roberts, Alia Ash and the Shine Church Band.

When not dancing enthusiastically in front of the stage, children were delighting in refreshing snow cones or bouncing joyfully on the jumping castle.

The evening culminated with a treasured Stanhope Christmas tradition, as a red-suited visitor made his grand entrance aboard the Stanhope fire truck.

Children rushed forward with excitement to see Santa as he distributed sweets to the eagerly gathered crowd.

The Stanhope and District Development Committee wished to thank all who contributed to the evening's success, particularly sponsors Fonterra, Shine Church and Campaspe Shire Council.