River of Christmas joy

Crowds flocked to the Carols on the River event last Sunday. Pictures: CHRIS LOFVEN

The combined churches Carols on Noosa River event on Sunday was a huge success and a strong indication that the spirit of Christmas is alive and well.

Church choirs across Noosa and guest artist The Sandflys performed to thousands of people who turned out for the Noosa River stage performance.

Among them were Anglican Church of Noosa Reverends Chris and Lynda Johnson.

Rev Lynda was asked to deliver this year’s talk with its Christian message.

She brought families on stage and encouraged the children to wrap up their parents like Christmas presents.

“The best present is a person. That person is Jesus,” she said.

Reverends Chris and Lynda Johnson were hoping after two years of celebrations altered by Covid restrictions for a “much more relaxed Christmas”.

The couple arrived in Noosa in the middle of Covid not knowing what normal services looked like but are aware of the changes Covid has made.

“I know there are a number of people who are regular parishioners who are not coming back as they are still worried about Covid. They have health issues or a loved one with health issues,” Rev’d Chris said.

One element forever changed has been the adoption of new technology with live streaming of their 9.30am service from St Mary’s Tewantin enabling everyone to tune in.

With holiday-makers and new residents calling Noosa home, churches are across the shire are looking forward to welcoming new and familiar faces this Christmas.