The large crowd at the annual Carols by Candlelight on Sunday night weren’t deterred by the unexpected storm.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
About three millimetres of rain fell on the city on Sunday, according to the Bureau of Meteorology, bringing heavy clouds and lightning. More than 33 millimetres of rain has fallen on Dubbo in December.
But everyone knows the show must go on.
Organiser of the Rotary Club of Dubbo West Carols by Candlelight Malcolm Cockrum said the crowd was slightly lower than previous years.
However, there were thousands more who braved the storm.
PHOTOS: 2017 Carols by Candlelight
“The storm arrived and interrupted our proceedings. Some people went home, some sheltered where they could and we had new people who came,” Mr Cockrum said.
“We cut the program short by two items so we still got almost the full program.”
The storm arrived and interrupted our proceedings. Some people went home, some sheltered where they could and we had new people who came.
- Organiser Malcolm Cockrum
The sky did turn black and it was filled with lightning, but thankfully it avoided Victoria Park’s No 1 Oval, he said.
Despite the weather, Mr Cockrum said the band was great as usual and the acts, including the choir and local musicians, were very good.
All the classics could be heard from the oval, including Santa Claus is Coming to Town, Away in a Manger and Jingle Bells. There was even a visit from the man in red, also known as Santa Claus, who handed out lollies to those waiting.
However, the organiser said his standout was the singing group from Apollo House, led by Kerry Ellen.
Mr Cockrum said he was particularly thrilled at the performance and the touch of diversity it brought to the community event.
For those who missed the 2017 carols, the date has always been locked in for the next event. The carols will be held at Victoria Park on December 16, 2018.