Whitehorse Carols

Enjoy a night of live music from community performers and celebrated Australian artists. 

Rhonda Burchmore
A beloved star of stage and screen, Rhonda has been part of Christmas festivities across Australia for more than forty years. She brings A Red Hot Swinging Christmas to Whitehorse, filled with joyful classics such as Have Yourself a Merry Little Xmas and Let it Snow. 

Johanna Allen, David Hobson and Dale Burridge
Three celebrated Australian vocalists join together for a star studded performance.

• Johanna Allen is an award winning performer across theatre, opera, cabaret and television. She is known for her Green Room Award winning role in Titanic the Musical and her recent performance as Mrs Lovett in Sweeny Todd for the Victorian Opera in Dubai.
• David Hobson is one of Australia's most recognised operatic and recording artists with leading roles for Opera Australia, including award winning performances in La bohème and Orphée. He has performed at major national events and appeared in Carols by Candlelight for many years.
• Dale Burridge has enjoyed a forty year career across major musicals in Australia and internationally, including Raoul in the original Australian production of The Phantom of the Opera. He recently performed the National Anthem at the Olympic Flag Bearer announcement in Paris. 

Whitehorse Churches Care
Representing almost 30 churches across the municipality, Whitehorse Churches Care opens the evening with a warm and uplifting community performance. The organisation has a long and meaningful connection to Whitehorse Carols and reflects the spirt of collaboration, unity and community across the city. 

Matt Hetherington – MC 
Matt Hetherington has performed for leading Australian companies, sporting icons and even Prime Ministers. His career includes Helpmann and Green Room Award winning roles, as well as years spent performing in New York and Los Angeles, where he worked along international industry greats including Garry Marshall and Hugh Jackman. 

This year's Whitehorse Carols is returning to the grounds of the Whitehorse Civic Centre Precinct and the new, The Round. 

399 Whitehorse Rd, Nunawading VIC 3131 

The Whitehorse Civic Centre Precinct and The Round is well-connected by public transport, offering convenient options for patrons travelling to a show.

• Bus: McCulloch St/Whitehorse Rd on the 901 route is the closest bus station, only a short walk from the bus stop to venue. The nearby Nunawading Station can also be accessed by the 273, 902 and 735 route.  
• Train: The closest train station is Nunawading Station, on the Belgrave and Lilydale line. Which is approximately 1km or a 10-minute walk from the event site. From there, you can alternatively take a taxi, ride-sharing service, or catch a connecting bus.

The Round advises to check for changes to schedules, routes or disruptions of services before taking public transport.  

There is limited parking available at the Whitehorse Civic Centre and Walker Park. We recommend walking, riding your bike, carpooling, or public transport where possible.

Accessibility and Event Inclusions:

There are a number of event inclusions and accessibility features to help support the community.

• Chill out space: A quiet and calm space away from the festivities, providing patrons an opportunity to break away. Located on level one of The Round
• Auslan: On stage interpreters throughout the main show.
• Accessible Viewing Area: Designated accessible viewing area with easy access from the footpath.
• Changing Places Facility: To support individuals with disabilities and their carers, a fully equipped larger changing facility can be found on the ground floor of The Round.
• Accessible Toilets: Available in both The Round and Civic Centre.
• All-gender Toilets: Available at The Round.
• Parents Room: Available in both The Round and Civic Centre.
• Accessible Parking: Located in the eastern carpark of The Round, enter via Whitehorse Road.
• Big Screen: A dedicated large screen promises a comfortable viewing experience from any distance, with the added benefit of featuring Auslan interpreters for enhanced accessibility.

For additional details or specific inquiries, please reach out to the Creative Whitehorse team for further information.

Is the event free?
Yes, Whitehorse Carols is a free community event.

Do I need to book or register?
No. You can arrive at any time and enjoy the event. 

What time should I arrive?
Activities and food begin from 5.30pm. Carols on stage begin at 6.30pm.

Can I bring my own food?
Yes. Picnics are welcome. Food trucks and dessert stalls will also be available. 

Can I bring chairs?
Low chairs and rugs are able to sit anywhere. Higher camping chairs are allowed but must be set up in the designated rear lawn area. 

Will Santa be there?
Yes, Santa will make an appearance during the Carols and be available for family photos throughout the night. 

Are there fireworks?
No. Whitehorse Carols does not have any fireworks. 

What should I bring?
A picnic rug or low chair, a reusable water bottle, sun protection and warm layers for later in the evening. 

Is the event accessible?
Yes, we have many accessible features available throughout the event. More details are listed in the Accessibility tab. 

Can I bring my dog?
Yes. Bringing dogs is not recommended due to large crowds and noise. Any dogs that attend must be on a leash and under control at all times. If not, you may be required to exit the event. 

What happens if it rains or if it is really hot?
The event will continue in most weather conditions. Please dress appropriately. If conditions become unsafe, updates will be posted on the Whitehorse City Council & Creative Whitehorse social media pages. 

Where can I park? 
Limited parking is available in the Civic Centre Precinct. Public transport is recommended. Please see the Getting There tab for more details. 

Are shade tents or marquees allowed?
No. Please bring a hat and sun protection. 

Is there tap water on site?
Yes, there are multiple water refill points available. Please bring a reusable water bottle.

Is there a lost children or lost property point?
Yes. Any lost property or children will be brought to the Information Tent for safe keeping. 

Are drones allowed?
No. Drones are not permitted for safety reasons. 

Can I bring glass bottles or containers?
No. The event is glass free for safety reasons. All BYO beverages must be in non-breakable containers. 

Can I smoke or vape at the event?
No. Whitehorse Carols is a smoke and vape free event for the safety and comfort of all attendees. 

Is there seating provided?
No, this is a lawn based event. Please bring your own rug or chair.

Is this event being live-streamed?
No, the only way to experience the Whitehorse Carols is in person. 

Are sparklers or candles allowed?
No. Open flames and sparkles are not permitted for safety reasons. 

Will there be photographers and videographers at the event?
Yes. Council will be capturing photos and footage for promotional use. If you prefer not to be photographed, please let our staff know on the night.