Christmas is Here, Norfolk Island 2023

Christmas Eve is almost here, and the countdown has started. School holidays have started, and holiday travellers are arriving, delighted to see family and friends. The rain this week was a welcome sound on the roof, a wonderful early Christmas gift as our water tanks filled and gardens were watered.

The Christmas Pageant is on Friday 22 December starting at 6pm and this event is always so much fun. The town roads will be closed so all can enjoy a relaxing evening watching the Christmas Parade as the floats and entertainers delighting the crowds.

Last weekend Christmas Carols were held at the St. Barnabas Chapel on Saturday16 December, locals gathered and Christmas carols were sung, which was an enjoyable time with family and friends.

Christmas lights are displayed around Norfolk Island’s homes. It is lovely to drive around at night to see the sights and don’t forget to check out the big Norfolk Pine tree at Kingston, they always look a picture.

Norfolk Island church services will be busy with many Norfolk Islanders attending the special Christmas services on Christmas eve and during Christmas Day. For service times, check the details with the Norfolk Island Information Centre or the church notice boards.

The Santa Post Box has been at the Post Shop this month, I hope everyone had a chance to post a special letter or pictures to Santa.

Christmas Day is on Saturday this year and that means that many of us will have Christmas day off on Monday and Tuesday as the public holidays as well as Sunday, Christmas Eve, I am

sure we will all enjoy our time with family and friends. The young children will be excited, and I am sure they will be watching the night sky to see of they can spot Santa on his sleigh.

Summertime Christmas on Norfolk Island, I know I will be heading to Emily Bay and hope to spend time snorkelling and enjoying our underwater world. It will be good to catch up with friends and BBQ and relax and picnic under the Norfolk Pines.

The families have set up camping sites under the pines at Emily Bay and I am sure they will have a fun time during the holiday at the beach.

The surf and board riders’ competition will be held next week. I think this will be held on Boxing Day, it will be busy downtown at Kingston as everyone gathers for a day on the water.

For those working, caring for the sick and the hospitality workers, also all the workers looking after travellers here on Norfolk Island, thank you for all you do, helping others at Christmas and New Year.

We must also acknowledge those who are parted from loved ones this year for the Festive Season. We are fortunate to have internet communication with those who are across the water in faraway lands. I know I will be calling my family and grandchildren in the morning, and I can’t wait to see their smiling faces.

My heart goes out to those who have lost family and friends and loved ones this year. I share your heart ache, but their memories will always be with us.

Take care everyone, have a lovely Christmas day as we enjoy the traditional island meals and treats. I know I look forward to a slice of watermelon, Norfolk Island has the best in the world.

Merry Christmas Yorlie

Have a Safe and Happy Festive Season

Betty Matthews

22 December 2023