Christmas spirit was truly alive in Cessnock on Friday night, when more than 1000 elves descended upon Baddeley Park for a world record attempt and carols night.
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Organised by Project Cessnock, the aim was to bring as many people dressed as elves together in the one location to break the world record – 1762 – set in Thailand in 2014.
The final count came in at 1004 elves and while the record was not broken, Project Cessnock co-founder Adrian Buckley said the night was fantastic.
“It was a really positive thing in terms of bringing the community together,” he said.
People of all ages filled the sportsground with a sea of red and green, and came from all over the Cessnock LGA and wider Hunter to be a part of the event.
Adrian described the night as very colourful, saying that it was an uplifting experience for all involved.
“Everyone said they loved it,” he said.
Both Mr Buckley and fellow Project Cessnock founder Nicole Spears were relieved and proud to have accomplished what they did, after what had been a year-long process.
The idea came about following last year’s Carols in the Park being cancelled due to weather, and Project Cessnock wanted to ensure that Cessnock embraced the Christmas spirit in 2015.
“We did it,” Mr Buckley said, “we brought something to Cessnock that hadn’t been thought of.”
Cessnock City Mayor Bob Pynsent agreed that the elf challenge was a great concept, saying that the new event led to a hugely successful Carols in the Park, which was held in conjunction.
“There was just red and green everywhere and a great community coming together,” Cr Pynsent said.
“It was the most people I’ve ever seen at our carols. It was a brilliant atmosphere.”
Carols in the Park featured live entertainment by many local groups and artists, along with market stalls and fireworks to end the night.
Mr Buckley said organisers are currently in the process of discussing a future attempt at the world record.
