On a rainy Saturday, community members gathered at the Lismore Turf Club to celebrate CASPA’s first-ever Christmas Carnival. The event was a heartwarming success, bringing together families, local businesses, and entertainers for a day filled with joy, connection, and holiday spirit.
Despite the drizzly weather, the carnival buzzed with excitement. From vibrant market stalls and rides to creative craft stations, there was something for everyone. Children delighted in making snow globes, beading, and writing letters to Santa, while live performances from talented local artists Maca Music, JC Dance, St Joseph's Primary School choir, Blackman Dreaming, The Living School, Katie Brooke, Rattled Snake and CASPA's own DJ Jason Digby, kept the energy high throughout the day.
At the heart of the carnival was the Giving Tree. Guests generously placed gifts for young people in care, beautifully wrapped by volunteers from The Rotary Club of Lismore Networking. This meaningful gesture highlighted the true spirit of the season, generosity sprinkled with a little magic.
CASPA CEO Naarah Rodwell opened the event with gratitude for the Lismore community's continued support and emphasised the importance of creating spaces for connection and celebration, particularly during challenging times. Naarah also shared the hope that this carnival will become a cherished annual tradition that brings us all together.
This celebration wouldn’t have been possible without the collective efforts of local businesses, performers, volunteers, and CASPA staff, all working together to make the day a success. From local makers to delicious treats, carnival rides to heartfelt connections, the Christmas Carnival showcased the best of what Lismore has to offer.
A special thank you goes to our generous event sponsors: Summerland Bank, Lean Finance, Newton Denny Chapelle, Commonwealth Bank, Herne’s Security and Herron Todd White, as well as the numerous organisations who donated prizes for our raffle. Your contributions not only helped bring this day to life but are also a vital part of supporting our ongoing work with young people and families in the region.
We’re already looking forward to next year, with hopes for sunny skies, even more gifts under the Giving Tree, and an even bigger celebration of community, connection, and holiday magic.
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to our CASPA village and the Lismore community. We hope to see you next year!
Want a make a difference in a young person's life this festive season? Contribute to our Christmas Appeal by clicking the link below, or drop a gift off at one of our offices. You can find the locations on our "Contact us" page.
