The Nyngan Community gathered together in Davidson Park, in the Town's main street last Thursday night to celebrate turning on the lights of its new grand Christmas tree.

After Bogan Shire Council received a letter from local resident Elyce Bennett requesting a Community Christmas Tree to foster community spirit, the Council went into action setting up the tree and filling the park with lights ready for the festive season and the all important switching on of the Christmas lights.

Deputy Mayor Victoria Boag said a few words on behalf of the Shire and then - to the joy of the kids and those watching - switched on the lights.

With a visit from Santa Claus and children's activities provided by Barnardos, Mission Australia, Red Cross Community Hub, the families were well catered for on a beautiful December night.

Many families gathered on picnic blankets as the kids ran around eyeing off the tree and the decorations in the park.

"I noticed every year that people ask for a tree," said event instigator Elyce Bennett. "Loads of people passing through Narromine mention how lovely their tree is and being a Christmas fan of course I noticed also."

Ava and Debbie Matheson and Willow Davis 

"I remember as a kid that carols and Christmas markets in Nyngan were always big events (back when kids participated in things through schools) and that it seemed really special when there were lots of community members together in the festive season," she said.

"I remember the Main street being packed and the road being closed and shops and cafes staying open late. It was really great."

"Things have really declined on that front in the last few years since I've been back in town and it's a real shame," said Mrs Bennett.

"My hope by approaching Council was that if we got a town tree and bring the community together to light it, it would be a special event."

"What I really envisioned was a Christmas Carnival - where we had markets, carols and the tree lighting all on the same night and that lots of people got behind it. Unfortunately it was a little late this year to get that together but Haylee Martin of Bogan Shire Council, did a fantastic job in pulling it together last minute," Mrs. Bennett said.

Elyce Bennett with daughter Arden  

"It was so nice to see how supported the idea was by the community given such short notice. Moving forward we are hoping to have a Christmas committee and put together a really great event next year with something there for everyone. We hope to see lots of stalls from market vendors and local shops and café participation."

"We would love to see involvement from the schools with carols and performances and some contribution from classes and families on decorations for the tree such as a personalised bauble so we can look back on them each year the tree goes back up."

"It is all about goodwill and bringing the Community together," she said. 

Mona Stephens Bob and Dorothy Jenner enjoying the night