Tara Murray
Santa Claus is still coming to town.
While COVID-19 restrictions have meant there has had to be changes to the traditional Santa photo, children are still able to get their photo taken at Craigieburn Central.
The centre is offering socially distanced photos with Santa, Sensitive Santa, pet photography, augmented reality Christmas experiences to capture those shareable video moments with friends and family and online live video chats.
Photos must booked in advance online and there will be strict social distancing and hygiene measures in place.
Profits from the online video chats will be donated to the Willmott Park Deaf Facility at Willmott Park Primary School.
Willmott Park team leader Theresa O’Melveny said community connections are important for all children, especially those who are deaf or hard of hearing.
“Our school is a mainstream primary school with a deaf facility, which means that students have all the social and academic benefits of working within the larger classroom while receiving additional support from specially trained teachers of the deaf.
“Any donated funds will go directly to nurturing further community connections, ensuring that our students not only have the benefit of accessible activities but also enrichment experiences that enable them to socialise with other deaf and hard of hearing children and the wider deaf community.
“This could include participation in excursions and incursions such as our annual deaf sports day, Auslan interpreted shows, and visits from successful deaf artists.”
The centre is also offering charity gift wrapping, with proceeds going to the local Salvation Army.
Craigieburn Central centre manager Janet Reading said they know that many people are looking forward to Christmas.
“We’re excited to be bringing back all the magic and joy of the season and spending time with Santa and the elves, but in a COVID-safe way.”
Details: www.craigieburncentral.com.au or facebook.com/craigieburncentral/
