Aboriginal elder Bob Glanville opened proceedings at 7pm with a welcome to country and the Reverend Rob Donald led the assembled in prayer before the carols began.

The night was a combined organisational effort by the churches of Cootamundra and truly an event to bring the community together, with wonderful musical performances and contributions from each school.

“This year we had far more representation of talent from the local community, which was great,” Reverend Donald said.

“With more than 100 children attending with their families of all generations this made it a fantastic way to celebrate ‘a good God in our midst’, which after all is the primary message of Christmas.”

The Reverend thanked South West Slopes Credit Union for their support, and also thanked the Cootamundra Herald and Sacred Heart Central School for their assistance with printing programs.

The Sing Australia choir was led by Maureen Bunworth and the band led by Alison Patterson.

The multi-faceted band included members of the Cootamundra Concert Band Ensemble, the Young Shire Band, and Riverina Concert Band flautist Bruce Elshout.

Other musical highlights included performances by Geraldine and Bridgitt Ryan, the Holmes family, and a solo by Sonia Randall.

The successful evening was organised by the Cootamundra Minister’s Fellowship, who will continue to celebrate the spirit of Christmas with other events this month.

Tomorrow evening during late night shopping, representatives from each church will come together to perform a pageant and several carols at various stations around the central business district.

On Christmas day there will also be a free lunch in Dickson Hall open to all residents- see inside for more details.