Long time presenting partners VOS Construction and ONE Agency Launceston have again enabled money raised by the Launceston Carols by Candlelight on Sunday to be donated to The Examiner’s Empty Stocking Appeal.

“Carols is made possible by the wonderful, generous support of local businesses,” said Danny Gibson, chair of the Rotary Club of Tamar Sunrise Carols by Candlelight committee – who organise the event.

“The reality is it costs close to $50,000 to stage the event. And the support that ONE Agency and VOS put in make this community event accessible.”

“Through the support of local businesses we are able to donate what comes through the gate.”

ONE Agency founder Dean Harper said as a small, family-run business, helping out with the event was a great way to give back to the community.

“We don’t want to be a big large agency, we actually want to stay small and in control and helping out with things like this.”

Over the past five years the amount raised by the Carols by Candlelight event totaled more than $73,000.

Funds raised are split equally between the City Mission, St Vincent de Pauls Society, the Salvation Army and the Benevolent Society.

“Last year we donated $16,000 which contributed to the appeal,” Mr Gibson said.

“And we’re obviously hopeful this year – being the 110th anniversary of the appeal – that we can get even more.

“The spirit of Christmas is that families come along for a small fee … thanks to the generous sponsorship that we have.

“Then enjoy a wonderful night, sitting on the grass, signing along to carols and Christmas songs, and spending time with their families, they go home with a wonderful sense of community knowing that in turn they’re helping people doing it tough this Christmas.”

In Person:

At The Examiner’s office on Cimitiere Street.

Any business with an Empty Stocking tin.

Bank Transfer:

BSB: 035 822

Acc number: 011443538

BPAY (with bank details above):

Biller number: 49429

Ref number: 0100 1911180 0144 3538 9

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