The beloved Santa Sleigh event in The Gap, organised by the Rotary Club of Ashgrove/The Gap, faces cancellation this year due to a lack of experienced drivers to tow Santa’s sleigh through the streets.
The event is scheduled for 30 November to 6 December, but organisers have issued a call for help, urging anyone with experience towing large vehicles to step forward.
The sleigh has been a tradition in The Gap for over 40 years. Santa, accompanied by volunteers, travels through local streets spreading Christmas cheer to families. According to the Rotary Club, the event relies heavily on community support, including donations from businesses and volunteers. This year, the absence of available tow drivers has jeopardised the entire event.
In a recent appeal, the Rotary stated, “We need people with experience towing large trailers or caravans to tow the sleigh for the seven nights of the event. If we don’t have drivers, Santa will not be able to visit The Gap.”
Caravanning experience is significant as drivers are expected to navigate narrow streets and cul-de-sacs, and turn the vehicle safely.
The Santa Sleigh has long been a highlight of the holiday season in The Gap, bringing joy to children and families who gather to see Santa in their neighbourhoods. Santa visits several stops each night for a week each December, where residents can meet him and receive treats like sweets or stickers. As reported, the sleigh is decorated with festive lights and music, and Santa makes a brief stop in each area, adding to the local excitement.
Since its inception, the Santa Sleigh has been a community-driven effort, with volunteers, local businesses, and even politicians contributing their time and resources. Businesses make the event possible through their in-kind support.
Each night, a traffic safety officer will support volunteers, helping them navigate difficult turns and ensure the sleigh’s safe journey.
“Santa needs more helpers to ensure this tradition continues,” the Rotary Club said in their statement. Anyone interested in helping keep this cherished event alive can contact the Rotary Club through their website.
Losing this annual tradition would be a significant blow to the Gap community’s festive spirit, but with enough support, the sleigh could once again bring joy to the streets this Christmas season.
Published 22-Oct-2024
