An estimated 6500 people packed Taree's Fotheringham Park for the highly anticipated Carols in the Park.
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This year L J Hooker Taree joined forces with NSW Rugby League to bring our entire community together in support of those among us who have been affected by the recent bushfire emergency.
Organiser Amanda Tate said the time and effort to bring everyone together to celebrate Christmas and support bushfire victims was worth it.
"It was amazing, we were overwhelmed by the generosity of everyone involved," Amanda said.
"Thanks to everyone who helped- we had donations of things like toilet paper, bread and sausages.
"We had business like Wingham Beef Exports who provided 52 kilograms of sausages."
Amanda revealed the 2018 carols event was a 'struggle' and there were initial fears this year's event could be the same. That's when NSW Blues coach Brad Fittler came up with an idea.
"He called and asked if we wanted to combine for the event," Amanda said.
"Then it became bigger than Ben Hur."
Brad was accompanied by a number of Blues players and rugby league identities for the carols as well as a tour of bushfire affected areas, such as Rainbow Flat, and a junior clinic at Johnny Martin Oval.
"They are a really nice bunch of guys, very giving and respectful," Amanda said.
"I have great respect for Brad Fittler- he donates a lot of time to come and work with communities."
Rugby league stars to appear on stage included Brad, homegrown talent Boyd Cordner and Latrell Mitchell, Kylie Hilder, Kezie Apps, James Tedesco, Matt Adamson, Damien Cook and Kieran Foran.
Others to make the trip up included local legend Danny Buderus, Andrew Johns, Roosters coach Trent Robinson, Mitchell Aubusson, James Roberts, Cameron Murray and Angus Crichton.
The night was superbly hosted by Andy and Deb Saunders. They were joined onstage during the event by fellow The Block contestants Jesse and Mel, and Tess and Luke.
Local performers who took the stage included Mick Saunders, Luca Saunders, Taree West Public School, Taree Christian College, Hudson Rose, San Stephens, Jake Davey, Daniel Brewer, The Trapps, Patrick Hayes, Jess Morris Jackson, Stacey Evans, Chloe Hicks, Cassidy Donovan, Kailin Harris, Kelsi Phillips and Matty Zarb.
Australian country music superstar Travis Collins belted out some Christmas tunes and crowd favourites before Shannon Noll took the stage to sing Jingle Bell Rock, It's Christmas Time and his iconic hits What About Me and Drive.
There was also entertainment from local schools, homegrown talent, PCYC Gymaroos and Cheer Squads, and a visit from Mr Hooker Bear and Santa Claus.
This was Amanda's swan song from organisation of the annual event. She cited family and business reasons for her decision.
"We (L J Hooker) will still support it but I can't organise it anymore," Amanda said.
"It's time to hang my hat up and find someone else to take it over."
All proceeds from this event were donated to the Rural Fire Service and those who need it most. Buckets for donations circulated around the crowd.