NEWS RELEASE
12 December 2007
Newtown’s Christmas Tree just got brighter
Workers are today stringing up a brand-new set of lights that are guaranteed to make Newtown’s own Christmas Tree – in
Carrara Park – a spectacular festive landmark from tomorrow night.
Newtown Residents Association Vice-President Martin Hanley says contributions from residents who live around the park,
along with money from a bequest and from the City Council, have secured the $3500 set of lights – which will be given a
“test run” tonight.
The red and green lights will be officially switched on – possibly by a Newtown celebrity – at 6pm tomorrow (Thursday)
night as the highlight of a community gathering in the park. The suburb’s favourite band – Newtown Rocksteady – will be
on hand to provide the necessary festive groove.
Martin says Christmas lights have been switched on in the 15-metre norfolk pine each year since 1999 – when residents in
Regent, Harper, Owen and Daniell streets - surrounding the park – first had a “whip-round” to fund the lights.
“The old lights were however starting to look pretty sad. I can assure Newtown, though, that the new lights will look an
absolute treat.”
ENDS