As adults, it’s easy to get caught up in a frenzy of shopping, planning and preparation.  Warnings about the diminishing number of days until Christmas are heard with increasing dread.

So it’s nice that in the midst of all the Christmas frenzy,  there are opportunities to take time to  share the pleasures of the season with family, friends and the whole  community. 

Carol events and Christmas services in Mudgee, Gulgong, Rylstone and Kandos and many smaller centres are bringing communities together to enjoy the simple joys of familiar songs, happy children, time with friends and a respite from the season’s bustle. 

The biggest of these, Mudgee’s Carols in the Showground, was the result of many hours of planning and effort by a diverse group of volunteers:   From the Rotarians and Combined Church members who organised the program, to the volunteers who helped put their plans into action, the performers who spent many hours rehearsing their songs and play, the businesses who provided sponsorship, and organisations such as the Rescue Squad who were on hand to ensure everyone stayed safe.  

Although on a smaller scale, similar events held across the region in recent weeks have played an equally important role in bringing their communities together in a spirit of good will and fellowship. 

Thanks go to all the volunteers who played a part in helping to make Christmas a true community event in the Mid-Western Region.