Carols back on

By Bridget Brady
THE Cranbourne Rotary Club is singing for joy after the generosity of the community has brought their Christmas carols back to life.
The club has gained a new home for the carols – at the Cranbourne racecourse, and with $6000 in sponsorship from Villawood Properties the 40-year history of holding Christmas carols in Cranbourne will contune.
Offers of help arrived after the News revealed last month the club voted unanimously to cancel the carols because it lost too much money from the event.
Since moving the carols to Casey Fields three years ago, it cost the club about $12,000 to run the event, which left it out of pocket about $4000 each year.
Sponsorship had also become increasingly difficult to obtain.
Rotarian Lance Beckwith, who was devastated when the club cancelled the carols, said it was a wonderful result.
“I didn’t think the whole thing would be turned around like this. It’s nice to know there are really terrific people out there who are willing to help out,” he said.
“It’s fantastic when you see the kids’ faces and how happy it makes them.”
The three racing codes in Cranbourne have donated the use of the racecourse to the Rotary club, and Cranbourne Greyhound Racing Club chief executive Tony Wright said it was great to see the community work together to achieve something for a charitable organisation.
“We’re happy to have them here and look forward to making a great night of it,” Mr Wright said.
He said no discussions had taken place about whether it would be the permanent home for the carols, but thought it would not be an issue if this year’s event proved successful.
Casey mayor Geoff Ablett said the council would chip in a $2000 grant on top of the $3000 already donated through his wards funds and those of Mayfield Ward councillors Kevin Bradford and Amanda Stapledon.
“I read in the paper that the carols were off and I made a few phone calls. We just needed everyone to pull together and, thanks to Villawood, we are able to make it happen,” Cr Ablett said.
Villawood Properties executive director Tony Johnson said he was happy to support the club.
“Geoff Ablett rang me up and said there was a problem with the carols and would you help us out.
“I was happy to. Our business is within the City of Casey and we want to repay the community, if you like,” Mr Johnson said.
Chairman of the carols committee Peter Carpenter said he was grateful for the support of all parties involved.
Rotarian Matt Blake said he hoped the community would come together to celebrate the carols event.
“It is absolutely excellent that Christmas is going ahead this year,” Mr Blake said.
Cranbourne Turf Club chief executive officer Neil Bain-bridge said the grandstand and lawn area would cater for crowds of 4000 to 5000 people and provide shelter during inclement weather.
“We would be very keen to be actively involved in the carols and support Rotary.”
Mr Bainbridge said he was happy the racing venue could be used for the benefit of the community.