COMMUNITY leaders believe Launceston may be the only Christian city in the world without a civic Christmas tree this week.
The last one, costing almost $45,000 to buy and erect, was burnt down about two years ago by vandals.
Launceston Chamber of Commerce executive officer Lou Clark said that this dubious honour had to be remedied.
"Every city has a Christmas tree, together with the wonderful lighting up ceremony. Every city in the world - but not Launceston. Have we given up on this tradition?" Ms Clark asked.
She will meet with Cityprom executive officer Karen Stallard and Mayor Albert van Zetten in January to look at the no-tree issue, and also the lack of decorations in the city this year, plus other issues such as sponsorship.
"I am really for a Christmas tree," Ms Clark said. "I am quite passionate about it. We have to get together and have this meeting earlier next year."
Ms Stallard called for the January meeting, which the others readily agreed to.
"The last big Christmas tree was vandalised, even though it was on a high box. It was burnt down," Ms Stallard said.
"Safety obviously has to be above all else. The trouble with decorations is those who own the (city) buildings are not interested in having anything attached to the walls.
"The council does not own the buildings so the council has had to say no to the decoration garlands we used to hang across the street. If they fall down it comes down to who is responsible," Ms Stallard said.
Cityprom had an in- principle agreement with council over three years, which involved Cityprom buying and storing the decorations and the council erecting them.
The cost of installation was usually $10,000 alone.
It also costs about $15,000 just to erect the Christmas tree and around $30,000 to buy one big enough.
Ms Stallard called for a committee of city fathers to look at the issues.
"The city suffers because it lacks Christmas decorations. Let's make Launceston the most Christmassy city in Tasmania. There must be a way to do it," she said.
"Vandalism and rules are the issue. I am sure many older people remember the giant Santa on the Myer corner with the mechanical beckoning finger.
"I hope we can get a group together in the new year to look at next Christmas."
Alderman van Zetten said he would be happy to be part of any committee, and sit down with others to look at this issue.
"I certainly think the idea of music is great for the city. It makes for a great atmosphere and attracts people to the CBD," Alderman van Zetten said.
"We will hold a meeting between stakeholders in mid to late January and see where we can go with this."
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