By Samantha Wantling
It may have been a bleak and overcast night, but the weather did not discourage hundreds of families from converging on Stanthorpe’s main street to partake in the Enchanting Community Christmas event organised by the Stanthorpe and Granite Belt Chamber of Commerce. Shopkeepers extended their hours, stalls adorned the street, and eateries buzzed with activity. Graham Parker, the Chamber president (aka Santa), expressed immense satisfaction with the turnout, exclaiming, “I am delighted to witness the community relishing the evening.“ He emphasised the joy reflected in the children’s smiles, underscoring the event’s essence. Parker also expressed pride in the community’s support for local retailers, particularly considering the challenges many have endured in the past year.
As dancing grinches added a lively touch, the Stanthorpe Little Theatre contributed to the festive atmosphere by donning costumes.
The evening concluded with the highly anticipated decorated window contest, seeing Granite Belt Cleaning and Hospitality clinching victory, with Nathan and Lynsey Colyer’s window standing out as an absolute favourite among the judges.