How Grand Central shopping centre stole Christmas
CHRISTMAS carollers have had their annual tradition taken away after they were not invited to spread their cheer at Grand Central Shopping Centre.
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CHRISTMAS carollers have had their annual tradition taken away after they were not invited to spread their cheer at Grand Central Shopping Centre.
Since the centre opened, the Helen Earley Ensemble has been part of the rush of December shoppers grabbing last-minute gifts.
This year the choir was sent an email saying its services were no longer required as Grand Central trials other Christmas events.
Helen Earley said the announcement was a huge shock to the group that had been carolling for 25 years straight in Toowoomba.
"There are people who come to the centre just to watch us, who have been coming for years," she said.
"They cry and clap. One lovely lady brings her daughter who has Down Syndrome and they follow us around the centre.
"For them it's an annual Christmas treat. We stop and sing just for her.
"It's those moments that make me sad we won't be there any longer."
The group performs for three hours each day from 11am to 2pm, the busiest time for the centre, entertaining thousands of shoppers.
Mrs Earley splits up the choir into teams of eight to 10 members who donate about 40 hours of their time during the Christmas period.
This year will be the first time the carollers won't perform.
"Shopkeepers and shoppers all stop and listen to us. It's a beautiful service and a big disappointment we aren't welcome there now."
A program has been released by Grand Central for the Christmas period that includes a sensory Santa and workshops for children, but not carols.
While the not-for-profit choir has been paid for its service, Mrs Earley said the fee had not increased since 2008 and all money went back to charity groups.
Grand Central marketing manager Marieke McIntyre confirmed the centre opted not to host the Helen Earley Ensemble this year.
"We have been very happy with the commercial arrangement we have had with the Helen Earley Ensemble in previous years but this year we are trying something new at the centre," she said.
"Our primary focus is to make our customers' experience at Grand Central novel and engaging, which is why we have headed in a new direction this year."
The ensemble will still travel to Laidley to perform for retirement village residents as well as other private events.
Originally published as How Grand Central shopping centre stole Christmas
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