Enjoying the balmy conditions at Carols by the Bay last week are from left Matt King and Sam King with son Darcy, and Dave, Tracey and Jessica Costello.
Jacinda and Mia Tillotson at Carols by the Bay.
Getting ready to enjoy a picnic on the Esplanade lawns at last week's carols are from left Chris Ford, Jude Thompson and Julie Martin.
This happy group of Bass Coast College Year 10 students were out celebrating the end of their school year at Carols by the Bay. From left are Ciara, Molly, Tess, Amira and Pepper.
Liam and Lucas Jackson meeting up with Santa at Carols on the Bay.
Ernie and his mum Lottie pictured enjoying the festivities at last week's community Christmas event Carols on the Bay.
It's a small but very efficient Island Voice committee that presents the free family focussed Carols by the Bay event and kids rides for the Phillip Island community each year. Pictured are some of the volunteers who work hard to ensure this popular event continues each year: From left are Anne and Peter McMahon, Linda Marston, Cheryl Overton, Glenyce Paul and Andrew Marston.
Bass Coast Mayor Cr Rochelle Halstead (centre) soaked up the atmosphere at the Carols by the Bay community Christmas event with Sisters and Misters choir members Christine Ash, Lynda Clark and Caroline Talbot, along with Island Ward councillor Ronnie Bauer.
Bryn Hamley, Jonah Keys, Max Brown and Chloe Goss got into the spirit of the night.
This happy group arrived early to Carols on the Bay, and thoroughly enjoyed the night. They are Jess and Kristan Phillip with Poppy, Katie and Judd Bland, and Sian and Sonny Webb.
Having plenty of fun while waiting to see Santa were Jessica Krien and daughter Lily, and Brad Hodgetts and Charlie.
Carols by the Bay on December 10 was a resounding success, declared the "best ever" by organisers Island Voice, with an estimated crowd of 5000 people.
A dedicated group of volunteers worked tirelessly to organise the event, a highlight of Christmas for the local community.
President of Island Voice Peter Paul said they'd received numerous texts and emails congratulating them on the event.
"Once again, the weather smiled upon us and delivered a balmy evening. The rides for the children were thoroughly enjoyed by all, and the animal farm was extremely busy for several hours."
He said the three face painters were kept busy all evening and H-Bomb Haley with her coloured hair spray "added more Christmas cheer".
He said the arrival of Santa on the old CFA truck ramped up excitement levels, with Santa swamped by eager children before he even made it to his Santa chair.
Peter thanked the choirs from Cowes Primary and Our Lady Star of the Sea that started the carols section of the evening.
"New artists to the carols were the Ukelele Group, the Drop Kicks, and Dan & Daisy. I'm sure they'll all be invited back."
Also on the bill were crowd favourites The Bandicoots and the Sisters and Misters choir.
"The highlight of the evening was when our artists came back on stage for several numbers, as we counted down to the fireworks display."
Peter thanked Bass Coast Shire Council who funded and organised the spectacular fireworks.
He said the event would not be possible without support from a range of local sponsors.
"The carols were supported by Cowes Bendigo Community Bank and the Phillip Island RSL, and the support from Shire staff, in particular Janine Temme, was greatly appreciated.
"We thank COG Audio Visual for the sound, The Advertiser for the publicity, Westernport Water, Phillip Island Rotary, North Pier, Panny's Chocolates, and Archisign for all the printing and signs.
"Thanks also to A Maze'N Things for their major prize in the lucky tickets."
Peter also thanked the Island Voice carols committee for their efforts throughout the year in planning and putting together the program.
