Borough branches out with tree-mendous new Christmas program

With new decorations and a street party planned for the first lighting of the Point Lonsdale Christmas Tree, the Borough of Queenscliffe is getting ready to celebrate the Christmas season in style.

Residents and visitors to the Borough may have already noticed glimmers of Christmas decoration, with large trees being installed in the Queenscliff and Point Lonsdale shopping villages, and wreaths, bows and flags soon to appear in a variety of locations. The new festive features, supplied and installed by a Queenscliff local, represent the Council’s largest investment in new decorations in several years. According to Mayor Ross Ebbels, the new decorations will help bring some much-needed cheer to the Borough after a challenging year.

“Christmas in the Borough has always been a special time, but now that we’re able to celebrate together again, we want to make sure this year’s holiday is a memorable one,” said Borough Mayor Ross Ebbels. “With new decorations from a local supplier and a Christmas street party planned in Point Lonsdale, we’re hoping this will be the Borough’s biggest Christmas yet.”

In another nod to supporting local traders, Council is celebrating the lighting of the famous Point Lonsdale Christmas Tree with a public street party in support of Point Lonsdale small businesses on Saturday 4 December. Local business owner Sally Denahy from La Monique Perfumery in Point Lonsdale said that the revamped event, held on the Point Lonsdale Foreshore, would help support local businesses and artists after a difficult coronavirus lockdown.

“Local businesses and performers have really struggled during challenging coronavirus lockdowns, so we’re really excited to host the Christmas Tree Lighting festivities at the Point Lonsdale Foreshore this year,” Ms Denahy said. “We can’t wait to welcome residents and visitors from across the state as we put on a show with music, great food and entertainment for everyone.”

Starting at 3pm on Saturday 4 December, Point Lonsdale Road will be closed along the foreshore shopping village to allow festivities to begin. Visitors to the celebration will be treated to musical performances, a Christmas shopping experience, a visit from Santa, family activities and finally a lighting of the tree at 8:30pm. Local residents and visitors from outside the Borough are all welcome to attend the free event.

Mayor Ebbels said the best way to plan your Christmas in the Borough was to visit the event directory at queenscliffe.vic.gov.au/Christmas.

“A quick visit to our website will show you all the festive events Council and our local businesses have in store. We can’t wait to celebrate the Christmas season with you in the Borough this year.”

/Public Release. View in full here.