Chisholm Christmas tradition a sea of colour and smiles

December 20, 2025

There was a sea of colour, beaming smiles and plenty of festive spirit at the annual Waterford Christmas Carols in Chisholm at the weekend.

And, while the evening featured many performances, photos with Santa, sweet treats and brilliant light displays, the ninth edition also supported several fundraising initiatives for Maitland-based organisations.
Those to benefit included The Salvation Army, Thornton Fire Brigade and East Maitland Lions Club, via a community-wide food and gift drive and gold coin donation upon entry.

AVID NSW general manager Danny Boubli said the event offered an array of very merry Christmas-themed entertainment and activities for residents to enjoy.

“We had a delicious sausage sizzle hosted by the East Maitland Lions, a visit from the man in the red suit and his elves, jumping castles, face painting, a photobooth, fire truck, live band, entertainers and a fantastic performance by Starz on Stage dance school,” he added.

“Every year, the carols provide a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the entire Waterford community.
“It’s our pleasure at AVID to put together an event that has become a mainstay of the precinct.”

Mr Boubli was equally-thrilled to present generous contributions to the three benefiting organisations following the carols.

“It’s very important to us that our Christmas event is an opportunity to relax and enjoy a great night while also spreading festive spirit to community members in need,” he said.

“Waterford truly comes to life at this time of year, with the very best of the neighbourhood on display.

“It is amazing to see the entire community embrace the carols, Christmas lights competition and make our corner of Maitland an amazing place to be.”