Carols ring out over city in Christmas celebration

TWIN CELEBRATIONS: Phoebe and Zoe Bonney dress in their best matching Christmas outfits for Sunday night's Blue Lake Carols at The Rail.

NEW COUNCILLOR TAKES TO STAGE: Ben Hood performs at The Rail for the Blue Lake Carols.

A BUMPER crowd flocked to The Rail on Sunday night to celebrate the annual Blue Lake Carols.

With almost 5000 poeple attending last year, it is estimated similar numbers were at Sunday’s event.

Event coordinator Rudy Furlong said he was pleased with the response received this year.

“We had a lot of comments made from participants and the public saying they thought it was the best year yet,” he said.

“I’m really happy with the turn out, everyone had a great time and the whole night was basically seamless.

“Crowd participation was great – I just think everyone really enjoyed themselves this year.”

TWIN CELEBRATIONS: Phoebe and Zoe Bonney dress in their best matching Christmas outfits for Sunday night’s Blue Lake Carols at The Rail.

Hannah Morrison took on her first year as the musical director, receiving praise from Mr Furlong.

“Hannah did an amazing job this year,” he said.

“Our stage manager Monica Hart was also amazing.

“We managed to pull off an incredible night.”

Mr Furlong said thanks must go out to the public in addition to the artists that performed.

“It’s great to have the likes of Louise Adams return for another year, as well as artists like Lizzie Coke and Ben Hood,” he said.

“Scott Maxwell also made his Blue Lake Carols debut after winning an Aria Award this year, so that was really exciting.

“I’m very grateful to everyone who took the time to put this event on in addition to those who came out to celebrate the festive season.”