The Spirit of Connection: Christmas, Community, and Shared Hope
“I really like Christmas. It's sentimental, I know…
But I just really like it.” (Tim Minchin)
The other day I started singing Tim Minchin’s White Wine in the Sun to a colleague unacquainted with this classic. I got 2 lines in before the tears started rolling down my cheeks. Don’t know the song? It’s a heartfelt, and deeply emotional song about Christmas, family, and the values that truly matter during the holiday season all mixed with Minchin’s trademark humour. In one of the most moving parts of the song, Minchin turns to his young daughter, expressing his hope that she’ll grow up in a world where love and kindness are prioritised over materialism or dogma. His words are deeply personal, but they resonate universally, reminding us that the essence of the season is about love, family, and cherishing those around us. It’s well worth a listen, especially during these uncertain times where global financial and political tension are adding to existing social and environmental challenges.
For many, Christmas is a time of joy and celebration, but also of reflection—a time to hold space for the complexities of life, love, and loss. Tim Minchin’s song White Wine in the Sun resonates with so many of us for this very reason. It reminds us that the heart of this season is not found in the gifts or traditions, but in the people we hold dear and the shared moments that make life meaningful.
For me, the imagery of drinking white wine in the summer sun and gathering with loved ones mirrors the experiences of so many families around Australia. But beneath this warmth lies a deeper truth—that Christmas, while a time of togetherness for many, can also magnify the ache of grief and the struggles of those facing separation, loss, or hardship. This duality—joy interwoven with sorrow—is something we see reflected in our community as we congregate to celebrate, support, and reflect. We think of those we’ve lost and those unable to be with us. Yet, even in the face of grief, there is hope. Hope in the small acts of kindness, in the laughter of children, in the gatherings that bring us together to share food, music, and love.
Ultimately, White Wine in the Sun resonates so deeply because it’s not just about Christmas—it’s about humanity, relationships, and finding meaning in the people who matter most. In Minchin’s words… I just really like it.
On behalf of the team at Mums of the Hills, we hope all the stresses and sorrows that this year has delivered can be put to one side and balanced by the joy, love and happiness of those around you.
Our community is offering countless opportunities to connect, celebrate, and support one another this year. These events are a chance to connect, find joy in the present, and to strengthen the bonds that carry us through life’s challenges. Here are some of the wonderful events happening in our community this season:
Kids Crafternoon Sessions on Dec 8th at Love Always Collective
Cinema in the Paddock… it’s Christmas on Dec 13th at 7:30 PM
Christmas Wreath Workshop on Dec 13th at 7 PM at Love Always Collective
The Parents Hub Annual Christmas Party on Dec 16th at 10 AM
Family Christmas Party at Lollipops Playground on Dec 20th at 5 PM
Christmas Sip & Shop Night on Dec 6th at 4 PM at Rogue Bear
For those who love music and carols, there’s a fantastic array of events to bring the community together in song:
Knox Carols at Walley Tew Reserve, Ferntree Gully, Saturday 14th Dec, 4:00 PM
Montrose Community Christmas Carols, Sunday 8th Dec, 5:15 PM
Carols by the Lake at Emerald Lake, Friday 13th Dec, 5:00 PM
Carols on the Mountain at Ferny Creek, Saturday 14th Dec, 6:00 PM
Mooroolbark Community Carols, Friday 6th Dec, 7:00 PM
Maroondah Carols at Croydon, Saturday 7th Dec, 6:00 PM
Monash Carols by Candlelight at Jells Park, Saturday 7th Dec, 5:30 PM
Merry Monbulk Street Party and Carols by Candlelight, Friday 6th Dec, 6:00 PM
For market lovers, there’s no shortage of festive options to find unique gifts, share good food, and enjoy the cheerful energy of the season:
Pakenham Twilight Market - Christmas Edition, Sunday 8th Dec
Nunawading Arts & Craft Christmas Market, Sunday 8th Dec
Tiny Forest Market @ Casey Central Park, Sunday 1st Dec
Ambleside Christmas Fair and Craft Market, Saturday 14th Dec
Yarra Glen Racecourse Twilight Market, Saturday 7th Dec
Twilight Christmas Market & Lighting of the Tree @ Bunjil Place, 30th Nov
Light Up Upwey Twilight - Picnic in the Park, Sunday 15th Dec
The Lost Woods Christmas Market, Saturday 13th Dec
Ringwood East Christmas Market, Saturday 7th Dec
Lastly, don’t forget to check out when Santa will be joining the CFA on their truck in your area.
We’re also asking for everyone to support local businesses this year. Click on the image below to be taken to our Christmas catalogue. Please be sure to support local businesses when purchasing gifts.
Please support local businesses this year.
As we enter this season, let’s hold space for both celebration and reflection. Let’s remember the importance of family and community, honour those we’ve lost, and commit to creating a world where everyone feels safe and valued. Together, we can carry forward the true spirit of Christmas—love, hope, and the shared strength of a caring community.