The Block gets ready for its last Christmas
Residents and visitors to Redfern housing community The Block welcomed Christmas for what could possibly be the last time with a night of food, carolling and community spirit.
The annual ‘Carols at The Block’ celebration has been running for five years and is a joint effort between the Aboriginal Housing Company, Reconciliation Unity Network, Oz Harvest and Hillsong Citycare groups.
Event spokesperson Henry Anuwai said the event is just one of many that bring together members of the local community.
“The underlying emphasis [for the event] is family unity and facilitating an event that kids can be safe and enjoy themselves,” he said.
“Unfortunately, if the planned renovation of the block commences next year, then we would not be able to hold the event on the block.
“But it may be held at another venue.”
A spokesperson for the Hillsong Citycare group said her organisation would find an alternate venue if the event could not be held at The Block next year.
“Things are a little uncertainty at the moment with what’s been happening here,” she said.
“But if we can’t have the event here next year we will just move it somewhere else.
“It’s a wonderful event and we love coming out here and helping the community.”
Onlookers were treated to a musical performance by Angelica Frances-Tremblay accompanied by local children carolling.
“I’ve been all over the world and worked with Maori from New Zealand, American Indians and Australian Indigenous and the sense of community here is special,” she said.
Local resident Uncle Ningena said the bad press about The Block was undeserved.
“This place is a place like any other,” he said.
“People live here, mostly good people. There are some bad people here but there are bad people everywhere.
“We welcome anyone, it doesn’t matter who you are, you can be from Bondi or Newtown or anywhere else.
“When we have things like this we’re showing people – come to The Block and you can eat and have a story and have a good time.”
By Simon Black
