DECORATIONS, trees, pop-up shops and displays – despite COVID-19 difficulties across the year, several Waikerie groups are working hard to ensure festivities will be in full swing this silly season.
Clubs, businesses, and schools throughout Waikerie are assembling their Christmas trees for the Waikerie Christmas Tree Trail, which will officially open towards the end of November.
The 100 wooden Christmas trees – each 2.4m tall – have been delivered, and Waikerie Christmas Decoration committee spokesperson Donna Matthews said the committee is “excited” to make the project a joint community event again.
All Christmas trees will be set up at Federation Park on Monday, November 23.
Meanwhile, the Waikerie Institute will host Santa’s Cave in line with COVID-19 restrictions, and committee chair Lizzie Platten said donations and consignment items are “still being accepted” for the pop-up shop.
“The shop has so much to choose from; there’s gifts for all ages, from beautiful homemade jams and chutneys to handicrafts locally made and from afar. The shelves will be overflowing,” she said.
“All our committee members have undertaken COVID marshall training, and we acknowledge the safety of our community is in the forefront.
“With the support from local business we will be having pop-up displays featured in some of the shop fronts.
“We can’t wait to see you all. Once you have filled your bags with lots of gifts, enjoy a walk through the wonderful Christmas Tree Trail and look at the pop-up Christmas displays around the shopping precinct and a walk along the river front.”
To inquire about placing or donating consignment items in the pop-up shop, contact Michelle on 0416 950 618.
The Waikerie Santa’s Cave committee is still looking for volunteers to help out in the cave; for further information, contact Marion on 0417 897 295. For all other inquires, call Lizzie on 0419 817 538 or Jan on 0429 432 226.