Vision Australia Radio's Audio Described Simulcast of Carols by Candlelight 2024

Vision Australia Radio's Audio Described Simulcast of Carols by Candlelight, makes this popular anual event on Christmas Eve, accessible to Australia's blind and low vision community. The radio broadcast was this year heard across the Community Radio Netowrk and a number of stations within the reading radio network. 

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Episode Transcript

S1 (00:18):
On the Vision Australia radio network via Radio Digital, online
at Viva Radio and on stations around Australia through the
Reading Radio Network and the Community Radio Network. Welcome to
the audio description presentation of Vision Australia's Carols by Candlelight.

S2 (00:40):
And it is a very warm welcome to listeners right
throughout the network. The Vision Australia Radio Network and our
partner stations to the audio description of this year's 2024
Carols by Candlelight from the Myer Music Bowl in Melbourne.
We're here in the in anticipation of a great night's entertainment.

(01:03):
Santa will be along and many others will be along.
Two people who are along to help us through the
evening are John Jenkins and Susie Hill. And Susie, what
are you looking forward to tonight?

S3 (01:16):
Oh, I just love all the singing and, you know,
all my favorites like Silvie Paladino, Denis Walter, casts of
some of the music theater program shows that are on
the moment. And the other thing I love, particularly when
it gets dark, all the candles and all the family scenes,
you know, parents that have brought their kids or grandchildren
with them, which to me is a wonderful thing about

(01:37):
Christmas family time.

S2 (01:39):
And it's a very warm welcome to John Jenkins.

S4 (01:41):
Thank you. John. I think Susie and I must be
singing from the same hymn sheet. Yes. Silvie Paladino, David Hobson,
seeing all the candles and the Hallelujah chorus. Oh, yes.
I'm looking forward to yes.

S3 (01:53):
Which will stand up for, of course, yes.

S2 (01:55):
We will have a tradition for us, a tradition for us.
So we're all waiting in bated breath to cross to
the Sidney Myer Music Bowl for Carols by Candlelight. And
our host.

UU (02:10):
Sara Arbo and her the other guy, snow. David Campbell.

S2 (02:19):
Thank you very much. That's why we're a team here. Yeah.

S3 (02:30):
So view aerial view over the Sidney Myer Music Bowl,
which is such an iconic feature of our beautiful Melbourne
in the gardens. Um, looks like it's packed to capacity.
And a beautiful evening.

UU (02:48):
So many full.

S3 (02:53):
Choir boys in red Cassocks white ties.

UU (02:57):
Come, let us All leave Christ alone.

S3 (03:08):
Possibly National boys choir.

S5 (03:11):
Holy, faithful.

UU (03:14):
Joyful and triumphant.

S5 (03:20):
O come ye, O come ye to.

S3 (03:26):
Bethlehem. This is the lead of Evan Hansen with some
of the cast.

UU (03:33):
Come and behold him. Born the King of angels. Come,
let us adore him. O come, let us adore him

(03:54):
O come, let us adore him. Christ the Lord.

S3 (04:06):
For men in dark suits, the women in black and
white dresses.

UU (04:11):
Of angels sing in exultation. Sing all ye citizens of
heaven above. This is the light of eternity. I would

(04:33):
be to God in the highest. O come, let us
adore him. O come, let us adore him O come,

(04:56):
Let us adore him. Christ the Lord. Yes, Lord, we
greet thee. Born this happy morning. Jesus, to thee be glory.

S3 (05:30):
Give orchestra behind the singers. And then the CBC choir.

UU (05:42):
Will sing. O come, let us adore him. O come,
let us. Come. Let us adore him. Christ the Lord.

(06:19):
Ladies and gentlemen.

S6 (06:21):
Please welcome to the stage David Campbell.

S3 (06:26):
CBC choir is in blue robes with gold trim. David
Campbell coming on. Dark suit, blue shirt and tie.

UU (06:32):
He greets the cast of Evan Hansen and.

S3 (06:42):
Goes to the announcer's podium on the right hand side.

S7 (06:45):
I'm absolutely overwhelmed to see all of you here tonight,
and please give it up for the wonderful cast of
Dear Evan Hansen. Everybody here.

S3 (06:55):
Fully dressed. Christmas tree behind him.

S7 (06:57):
And thank you to our own Carols by Candlelight choir
and the National Boys Choir. Thank you all so very much. Oh,
look at your magnificent. Welcome to the 87th year of
everyone's favorite Christmas Eve tradition. Vision Australia's Carols by Candlelight,
proudly presented by Amy. Thank you so much for joining

(07:19):
us on the land of the Wurundjeri Wurrung people in Melbourne.
Now two quick shout outs before we get on with
the show. Firstly, I want to give a shout out
to Todd and Tash Woodbridge, whose son Beau you just
saw then is Evan in Dear Evan Hansen, who opened
our show. He's what an incredible singer, right? A massive

(07:41):
career for Beau on the way. It's an incredible musical.
It's playing at Melbourne's Playhouse, followed by seasons in Canberra
and Adelaide. So just check the website for details. And
of course, huge news, breaking news tonight right here in
the bowl everybody. I am indeed by myself here for
the first time ever. Um, because if you hadn't heard,

(08:06):
my beautiful co-host Sara Arbor has been struck down by appendicitis.
I know the drama. This only happened a couple of
nights ago. She's had an appendectomy. In fact, in the
last couple of days, she's under doctor's orders to take
it easy. And apparently, you know, hosting a three hour
national TV show. That's not taking it easy. I've seen

(08:28):
her do the today show in her sleep, but this
is too much. Um, I just want to say, Sara.
Get better. I miss you, pal. Right here. So I thought,
as a little pick me up from all of us
here at the bowl, maybe we could just start things off.
We usually just say Merry Christmas, but maybe tonight we
can just say Merry Christmas. Sara. After three. Ready?

S8 (08:48):
One.

UU (08:49):
Two, three. Merry Christmas Sarah.

S7 (08:53):
We miss you, buddy. They miss you a lot. We
do have a huge night. It's your chance to help
light up the lives of children who are blind or
have low vision. Vision, Australia's major fundraising event for the year.
Brighter together is the thing. It's looking very bright here
in the bowl indeed. To donate to Vision Australia, head

(09:14):
to give to carols.com or call one 842 2077. And
don't forget all funds raised go directly to supporting charities
and their families to live the life that they choose.
I mean, it's just weird, isn't it? Cause I'm just
here by myself, you know? It's just. I'm fine with it.
Just a little uncomfortable. But I know that I was

(09:36):
just backstage coming out, and there's so many carols, family
members and friends here. Stars with their hands up, ready
to help me on standby. So I was going to
do this later on. later on. Let's just phone a
friend straight out at the top of the show, all right?
Casey Donovan, please come on out here now.

S3 (09:55):
Casey comes from the left.

UU (09:57):
A vision in purple, full length gown, strapless with a
black jacket over the top, waving to the crowd. Oh!
My God. Oh.

S7 (10:11):
Hi. Merry Christmas.

S9 (10:12):
Merry almost Christmas tree. David Campbell.

S7 (10:14):
Thank you for coming out here and give us a
little glimpse of backstage. What's happening right now. Who have
you seen? What is the mood like? We need to
set up for everybody here and everybody at home. You're
doing two songs, right? I am one by yourself and
one with the cast of Sister.

S9 (10:28):
Act, I sure.

S7 (10:29):
Am. Are they in habits? Are we inhabiting tonight?

S9 (10:31):
Look. Not tonight. It is our night off. And we're
here in Christmas cheer. And there is so much excitement
downstairs around Silvie Paladino hobo Marina Prior, the cast of
sister act Dear Evan Hansen.

S7 (10:45):
Were they incredible?

S9 (10:46):
Amazing.

S7 (10:46):
It's an amazing show too. It's a special night. And performers,
as you know, keep coming back for more. Our very
own Denis Walter is here. He is going to be here.
His 87th straight Carol tonight. Ladies and gentlemen, I've done
the math. I've worked it out. Who else is you
going to see tonight? Here. Dami im, dami im Anthony
Callea I just.

S9 (11:06):
Saw Tim Campbell, Anthony.

S7 (11:07):
Callea and Tim Campbell. It's Anthony's 20th carols.

S9 (11:10):
Ridiculous.

S7 (11:11):
Ridiculous. And this is interesting because it's 20 years since
you guys blitzed Australian Idol. Take us back to that
and how that feels for you. If I tell you
it was 20 years ago.

S9 (11:20):
20. 2004. 20 years ago, I met the one and
only Anthony Callea. And it has been a journey. As
Guy Sebastian would say, it's been a long and winding journey.
But we're finally here tonight. But look, it's been an
amazing career and to have us both on stage and
to be out here celebrating Christmas and together and, you know,
lighting the candles and the hats shine. It's just. And

(11:43):
for Vision Australia. What an amazing.

S7 (11:45):
Thing and what a way to celebrate here as well.
Meg Washington's going to be here tonight too. She's incredible.
She co-wrote and produced the film adaptation of Paul Kelly's
song How to Make Gravy. It's such a good film.
You've got to check it out. It's an instant Australian classic. Ngwenya,
our very own Tina Turner is going to be here
at the ball tonight and she is going to tear
things up. It's a really big night.

S9 (12:05):
It is, I cannot wait. I'm so excited. Are you
all excited?

S7 (12:10):
I've got family tonight. My sister Haley is here with
the cast of Jesus Christ Superstar. Michael Painter, who's Jesus?
Javon King is here as well. They've got rave reviews.
And also kids don't forget. Guess who else is here tonight? Santa.
Has anyone seen him yet? Up in the sky. Clear
sky tonight. Did you have to put milk and cookies
out for Santa in your house?

S9 (12:32):
I did milk and cookies, but I also put out
a cheeky beer and some carrots.

S7 (12:36):
That's how Santa knows is in Australia.

S9 (12:37):
It's very much so.

S7 (12:39):
Yes, very much so. All right, it's time for some
for some music. If Sarah's not here, let's change things
up and do things a little bit differently for you.
What song do you want to hear next? Just shout
out your requests. Anyone? Good choice. They want to hear
this year's winner of Australian Idol, which is handy because
he's here right now.

S9 (12:58):
Casey he sure is. And what a talent. Big future.
Shall I introduce him now? He is, of course.

S7 (13:04):
Oh, yeah.

S9 (13:05):
Dylan, right. Oh, wait.

S7 (13:05):
Quickly, before you do that, I do have a contractual
obligation to fill. Please, can we just get a quick
drum roll? Let me just check with the rest of
the team here. Do we have our conductor, Mr. John Foreman? John,
are you ready?

S10 (13:16):
I'm ready. Yes. Thank you. Good to see you, Casey.

S3 (13:20):
Thank you. Everybody. Do we have Burgundy velvet jacket?

S7 (13:24):
Doug Hayward, are you ready, Uncle Doug?

S3 (13:28):
Thank you.

S7 (13:30):
Rod, you're going to be back a little bit later
on and sing. But why don't you do the next
intro for me?

S9 (13:34):
All right, here we go. Singer songwriter Dylan Wright claimed
the coveted title of Australian Idol 2024. With his soulful
renditions of classic hits, he has spent the year touring
to sold out shows right across Australia and releasing his
new EP that debuted at number one with You Make
It Feel Like Christmas. Please, Melbourne, make Dylan feel welcome.

(13:56):
Here he is on the Carol stage tonight.

UU (14:05):
I want to thank the storm that brought the snow.
Please take over.

S3 (14:10):
White shirt playing guitar, centre stage.

UU (14:16):
I want to thank you, baby. You make it feel
like Christmas. Ooh, ooh. It barely took a breath to realize.
We're gonna be a classic for all time. I want

(14:37):
to thank you, baby. You make it feel like Christmas.
Feel like Christmas. Sweet gingerbread made with molasses. My heart
skipped and I reacted. Can't believe this is happening. Like
a present sent from God. Sleigh bells singing Hallelujah. Stars

(14:59):
are shining on us too I want to thank you baby.
You make it feel like Christmas. You. Thought I was
done for. Thought that love had died. You came along
I swear you saved my life I want to thank you, baby.

(15:25):
You make it feel like Christmas. You make it feel
like Christmas. Sweet gingerbread made with molasses. My heart skipped
and I reacted. Can't believe that this is happening. Like
a present for God. Sleigh bells singing Hallelujah. Stars are

(15:46):
shining on us too I want to thank you baby.
You make it feel like Christmas. I never thought I'd
find a love like this I found forever in that

(16:06):
very first kiss. And I want to thank you baby.
You make it feel like Christmas. Oh, thank you baby
I want to thank you, baby. You make it feel
like Christmas. Merry Christmas God bless. Awesome. And like that

(16:37):
we are away a reindeer.

S7 (16:40):
There is a live a reminder I should say. There
is a live audio description available of tonight's event. Now
that's for people who are blind or have low vision.
Simply visit Vision Australia Radio. You can find that at
to find your local station and listen along. But let's
keep the ball rolling here in the bowl. Our next

(17:00):
performer is an Aria Award winner who isn't just entertaining,
she's simply empowering Emma for her shows. I know her
shows overflow with dance and sign language and signing and
craft and singing and craft. She's taking her brand new show.
You can hear the hubbub in the crowd dance Island

(17:22):
Party on the road this coming April. Kids, are we ready?
Get on your feet Australia with the ready set dance
kits it's Emma, Emma and Melvin Melvin with waiting for Santa.

S3 (17:39):
Lots of the crowd have on Santa hats with the
sponsor name on it. Amy, Emma, Emma now coming on
with her group. Very excited.

S11 (17:46):
For Christmas.

S3 (17:48):
She's in an orange dress. Claus is on his way.

UU (17:53):
Signing the words A sleigh hooray! I can't wait for
Christmas Day waiting up for Santa.

S3 (18:05):
She's with seven Melbourne dressed in green.

UU (18:08):
Sparkly fall asleep. It happens to me every Christmas Eve.
The clock won't tick fast enough for me. Waiting up
for Santa. Six young children dancing with her.

S3 (18:28):
Circle around the Hands.

UU (18:30):
Around, around the world. To every girl and boy around.
Around the world. Spreading Christmas joy. Then out he goes
singing ho ho ho. Santa Claus is on his way
in a slave ship. Hooray! I can't wait for Christmas Day.

(18:57):
Waiting up for Santa Ellen. Everyone here is very excited too.
We're all waiting for Santa Claus. Have you been preparing, Alvin? Yes.
Have you been preparing? Oh, yes.

S11 (19:12):
Milk and cookies for the reindeer. Good idea.

UU (19:14):
We have one more present. I'm going to pass it
to you, if that's okay. Now, don't fall asleep. Alvin,
we need you to stay up. We're waiting for Santa. Oh, Alvin. Around.
Around the world, bringing lots of toys. Around around the world.
To every girl and boy. Around. Around the world. Spreading

(19:39):
Christmas joy. Then up he goes.

S12 (19:43):
Singing ho ho ho.

UU (19:45):
Santa Claus is on his way in a sleigh. Hip, hip. Hooray!
I can't wait for Christmas day. Waiting up for Santa.
I'm not sure.

S11 (20:03):
Even I don't know where Santa is. But we're excited
to see him, that's for sure.

UU (20:09):
Oh, everyone. Merry Christmas! I think he's Santa. Still to come.

S13 (20:19):
Casey Donovan and the cast of Sister Act. Spread the joy.

S7 (20:24):
Anthony Callea returns to the carol stage with a wow.

S13 (20:28):
The achingly beautiful voice of Meg Washington.

S7 (20:31):
The magic that is Damian.

S13 (20:33):
The maestro that is Denis Walter.

S7 (20:36):
Mitch Tambo in a first time duet with his wife, Lila.

S13 (20:40):
And DC, I think I can hear the sleigh bells.

S7 (20:43):
Which means I have about three minutes to get on
Santa's nice list.

S13 (20:47):
Ha! All that plus 1 or 2 surprises on Vision
Australia's Carols by Candlelight, presented by Amy.

S1 (21:02):
On the Vision Australia radio network. VA radio digital online
at VA radio and on stations around Australia through the
Reading Radio Network and the Community Radio Network. You're listening
to the audio description presentation of Vision Australia's Carols by Candlelight.

S2 (21:23):
Dick Boal here in here in Melbourne. We've got Suzie
Hill and John Jenkins here giving us audio descriptions. I'm
John Westland and just a reminder that you can donate
to Carols by Candlelight to Vision Australia on one 842 2077.
That's one 842 2077. Or you can go to VA radio.org.

(21:48):
That's VA radio.org and hit the donate button right there.

S14 (21:53):
Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse. The
stockings were hung by the chimney with care in hopes
that Saint Nicholas soon would be there. Oh, in the
sky his sleigh shall appear. Bells sweetly clanging. But not
before his elves had made him a Spotify playlist that OMG.

UU (22:15):
Was totes bangin. Whoa! Are you ready to rock out
upon the rain. You know you're the mastermind. Run, run, Rudolph!
It's not too far behind. C'mon, run, run, Rudolph. Santa's

(22:37):
gotta make it to town. Rudolph. Oh, Santa! Baby! Hurry!
Come on. You can take the freeway down. Run! Run away.
When Rudolph like a merry go round. It does not
belong to a boy child. What have you been longing for? Hey.

S4 (22:58):
And this is a elf, Bonnie, singing run, run, Rudolph.
And she's surrounded by her helpers. Wrapping Christmas presents and
filling stockings.

UU (23:07):
Like a shooting star. Come on and dancing. Run, run, Rudolph.
Santa's gotta make it stop. Run, Rudolph! Run, run, Rudolph!
And I'm telling you. Take it down. Rudolph. Run run
Rudolph run run Rudolph run. Rudolph. Animated. Santa and reindeer

(23:33):
dancing on.

S3 (23:34):
The projection screen. Behind the choir and orchestra.

S6 (23:39):
Okay. My turn.

S14 (23:42):
Not so fast, Sammy.

S11 (23:44):
It is Christmas Eve, and we all need to keep
to our own roles in Santa's workshop. Each role is crucial.

S15 (23:50):
Crucial. I stick beaks on furbys. Exactly.

S11 (23:55):
Huge responsibility. You stick beaks on furbys. I do all
the music stuff. Lenny sorts through the wishes of the
children who have written to Santa. Oh, and takes our
lunch orders.

S16 (24:07):
Ah, so is everyone all good for the candy cane
salmon skewers? Yum yum. Yeah. Two for one with your
elf meal at North Pole Macca's I love it, I
love it.

S11 (24:15):
Oh and Colin, he does the dad jokes for the
Christmas crackers.

S15 (24:18):
Cracking. Yep. Here's my first joke. I'm just testing it
out tonight. Uh, what do you get if you cross
a snowman with a shark? Frostbite.

S6 (24:32):
Sorry, sorry. Bonnie, you do know I have the voice
of an angel and the hips of Shakira?

S11 (24:37):
Oh, I do. And I also know that we're behind schedule.
Here is my problem. Who knows how far Santa has
to travel on Christmas Eve? Delivering presents.

UU (24:48):
Who knows? What do you think? A little?

S11 (24:52):
Well, yes. Very far. Okay, I'll tell you. It is 1,058,000km.

UU (25:02):
So the thing is, I told.

S11 (25:04):
Santa that I would make him a playlist to last
the entire sleigh ride. I have 1,057,000 songs. We just
need one more.

S6 (25:15):
Well, if you just let me sing, a song would
be sorted. Come on. Who wants to hear me sing
a little song?

S15 (25:23):
Can we just do it quietly?

S11 (25:25):
No, no, no, Colin.

S15 (25:26):
All this noise is interrupting my quality. Quality control on
the bon bon jokes. Okay, I just wrote a good one.
What was it? Um, what's the difference between.

S3 (25:36):
Wise.

S15 (25:37):
Men and Ray gun?

UU (25:42):
Come on. Not the three wise men. Can't. No, not
not not any. Come on, come on, come on. Quickly, quickly.
Santa is on his way.

S11 (25:50):
So what is your suggestion?

S6 (25:51):
Yeah. I've got. It's a traditional melody dating back to
the mid to early 20th century.

S11 (25:56):
Oh, beautiful.

S6 (25:58):
Take it away, Johnny boy.

S3 (26:00):
He's in stripy pants, green vest over white shirt and
an elf cap.

S17 (26:05):
I lift my heart to the.

S6 (26:07):
Sappers round, Khe Sanh.

UU (26:09):
Ah. And my soul was sold with my cigarettes to
the Look. Look.

S11 (26:15):
Look. Thank you. John. Thanks, guys. Thanks, Tammy. Thanks. Parents
in the audience. I know it's a.

S3 (26:20):
Bonnie Stops orchestra.

S11 (26:22):
But it's Christmas, it's Santa. Come on. We need something
more Christmassy. Think presents. Decorations, Christmas trees.

UU (26:31):
Trees. Got it. This one's a sentimental favorite. Great for
road trips.

S6 (26:36):
Great for sleigh trips.

UU (26:37):
Sing along if you know the words. Melbourne. Cup. Good job.
Brothers had. Enough with.

S11 (26:48):
Sammy.

S3 (26:49):
Sammy. Bonnie stops the orchestra.

S11 (26:50):
Again and tell me that that isn't the Cold Chisel song.
Flame trees.

S6 (26:55):
Well, I don't know, Bonnie. I haven't got to the
chorus yet.

UU (26:59):
Oh, there's brain trees will blind the weary driver. And
there's nothing else to set fire to this town.

S6 (27:12):
You know it is. flame trees. You're right. Yeah.

S11 (27:15):
I'm as shocked as you are. Come on, Sammy, we
can do this.

S15 (27:18):
Can we just do it quietly, please?

S11 (27:20):
No, Colin, we cannot do it quietly. Because if I
don't finish the playlist, even I might end up on
Santa's bad list.

S15 (27:28):
Hey hey hey whoa whoa whoa whoa whoa. That is true. Actually,
back to the jokes.

S3 (27:37):
Colin has a very bright, loud Christmas jumper.

S11 (27:41):
Why don't I believe him?

S6 (27:43):
When have I ever let you down? Ever. Twice. Two
minutes ago. Yeah, but I've changed. The spirit of Christmas
has moved me. I've got a song that celebrates all
of Santa's hard work.

S11 (27:55):
Okay, Sammy, but promise me no more cold chisel.

S6 (27:58):
No more cold chisel.

S11 (28:00):
Bless you.

S6 (28:01):
Let's take this up a notch. Melbourne, sing along if
you know the words.

S3 (28:06):
Pulls off his sleeves.

UU (28:07):
Working hard to make a living. Bring a shelter from
the rain.

S3 (28:14):
Sings from the thrust of the stage.

S5 (28:16):
Carry on red denim.

S17 (28:19):
In his grave. Whoa. He's a working class actor.

UU (28:27):
He's a working class stand up. And he flies through
the sky. What a wonderful guy. He's got presents for everyone.
He's the last stand. He bops around the stage. Oh, baby,

(28:47):
I promise no more Cold chisel. That wasn't Cold Chisel.

S6 (28:53):
That was barnesy off his second solo album, 14 weeks
in the charts. Got you on a technicality.

S15 (29:01):
Speaking of soloists, what is Santa's favorite singer?

S11 (29:06):
Not now. Colin.

S15 (29:07):
Beyond sleigh.

UU (29:09):
Lay. Off, Bunny.

S16 (29:14):
Flame trees just gave me the best idea for a song.

S11 (29:17):
Thank you, Lenny, but do you know what? I think
we've run out of time. I think I.

S16 (29:20):
Can hear Santa. Can you? I'll make it snappy.

S3 (29:26):
Oh, Lenny has black and white checked vest over a
green t shirt. Red trousers. Oh.

S6 (29:32):
Christmas tree. This is it. It's just, like, good.

UU (29:36):
At this distance. Come on. It's catchy. Woo! Rockin around.
Get up. Come on, come on. On your feet. Christmas spirit.
Come on, pumpkin pie. Do some. Gary. Woo! You will

(29:57):
get a sentimental feeling when you hear voices singing. Let's
be jolly with The boughs of holly. The Christmas tree.
Have a happy holiday. Oh! Oh! Oh!

S4 (30:16):
I think the two elves are better present than they
are dancers. I'd agree. Best dancers of the children's in
the audience. Come on.

S3 (30:28):
They're all having a fabulous time.

UU (30:30):
Yes! Oh! Boom! Wow!

S15 (30:35):
I think we need a test run before the big
boss arrives, just to see how the jokes are landing. Okay. So, uh, microphone, please. And, uh,
theme music. Thank you.

UU (30:47):
Ooh. Felice navidad. Feliz Navidad.

S3 (30:57):
Black t shirt. Sanders. Crew on the front in white two, two.
Testing the microphone.

UU (31:04):
Wish you a Merry Christmas. I want to wish you
a merry Christmas two. I want to wish you a
merry Christmas. From the bottom of my heart. Hello. Oh, hey.

(31:25):
It's so.

S4 (31:27):
Unprofessional. Oh, Colin with the microphone now.

S15 (31:29):
This is my first joke. What do you call a
snowman in the summertime? A puddle?

S16 (31:36):
Oh, terrible. Oh, predictable.

S15 (31:41):
So it's in your shot?

UU (31:43):
Yeah. I want to wish you a merry Christmas. I
want to wish you a merry Christmas. I want to
wish you a merry Christmas. From the bottom of my heart.

S15 (32:01):
What is an Olympic sport. And where Santa Claus keeps
his money. The pole vault.

UU (32:10):
I wanna wish you a merry Christmas. I wanna wish
you a merry Christmas. I want to wish you a
merry Christmas. From the bottom of my heart.

S15 (32:26):
Who goes 000.

UU (32:32):
Santa's walking back. Everybody and everything. Santa.

S3 (32:38):
Santa comes in on his sleigh. Being pushed by elves.
Lots of parcels in the back of the sleigh. Being
led by reindeer.

S14 (32:50):
Merry Christmas everyone. Hang on mate. Merry Christmas children. Merry
Christmas parents. Merry Christmas to all. Ha ha! Hello there. Hello.
My favorite elves. Ha ha ha! Now, you wouldn't have

(33:10):
made the naughty list, any of you, in my absence,
I hope. Hobo. Oh, you can talk. Colin.

S11 (33:19):
Santa. Yes. I have made you a playlist to last
the entire sleigh ride. All I need is your phone
so I can download the songs onto it.

S14 (33:28):
Sprinkles. Get me my phone, please.

S3 (33:32):
And elf comes with the phone, which is an old
rotary dial one.

S11 (33:36):
Oh, Santa. I can't download any songs onto that phone.

S14 (33:41):
Too new. I've got an older one. Sprinkles.

S15 (33:47):
Oh, do it in this awkward moment. Do you want
another joke to cheer us all up? Oh.

S14 (33:52):
You mean one of your Christmas card ones?

S15 (33:57):
Yes, sir. Let's go. Bonnie.

S14 (34:01):
I hope you're not too disappointed about your playlist. I'm
happy to stick with tradition. Really? Oh, yes. Yes. Life
changes so much. Traditions are so important at this time
of year. Passed down through families. From generation to generation.

(34:22):
Keeping the past alive.

S11 (34:25):
Oh, so, Santa, you don't want any songs?

S14 (34:29):
Oh, no no no no no no no no no.
I do want to sing one song. It's tradition.

S6 (34:35):
Tucker's daughter.

UU (34:38):
Hit it! John. Oh. You see? Ha, ha! Jingle bells,
jingle bells. Jingle all the way.

S18 (34:50):
Oh, what fun it is to ride in a one
horse open sleigh. Hey!

S3 (34:55):
Jingle bells, jingle bells. Vision of children dancing to the carol.

S4 (35:02):
In the audience. Chance for everyone to play.

UU (35:06):
Dashing through the snow. In a one horse open sleigh.
O'er the fields we go. Laughing all the way. Ha
ha ha. Bells on bobtails ring. Making spirits bright. What
fun it is to ride and sing a sleighing song tonight. Oh,
jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way. Oh, what

(35:31):
fun it is to ride in a one horse open sleigh. Hey,
jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle bells.

S4 (35:39):
Santa is back in his sleigh. Now being pushed by
the elves. Off on his journey. Waving to everyone although
Santa's sleigh.

UU (35:50):
Yay! Merry Christmas. Merry Christmas. Merry Christmas Happy Christmas to
all and to all a good night.

S19 (36:02):
Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music, Pandora what
do they have in common? Vision Australia radio podcasts all
your favourite Vision Australia radio programs including hear this. Talking tech.
Talking Vision, Emerging Writers, Focal Point, Happy Pants and more.
Just search for Vision Australia Radio plus the program you're

(36:24):
looking for and enjoy. Also available at Radio Vision Australia
Radio podcasts available now wherever you get your podcasts.

S1 (36:35):
On the Vision Australia Radio Network via Radio Digital, online
at via radio and on stations around Australia through the
Reading Radio Network and the Community Radio Network. You're listening
to the audio description presentation of Vision Australia's Carols by Candlelight. lies.

S2 (36:57):
And it is the audio description service of Carols by
Candlelight for Vision Australia Radio. We're broadcasting all the way
around Australia in throughout certainly throughout regional Victoria, Melbourne, Adelaide, Darwin,
Perth and on the Vision Australia radio regional network as

(37:19):
well also in Tasmania on print, Radio Tasmania and Radio
two Rph in Sydney and across the Community Radio Network.
Welcome all along to the audio description of Carols by
Candlelight from Melbourne's Myer Music Bowl. Santa's been the elves

(37:39):
have had their fun, so we're getting into the next
part of the show. We'll be joined by the Carols
by Candlelight choir coming up next on Carols by Candlelight
from the Myer Music Bowl. I'm John Westland. Suzie Hills here.
Also John Jenkins giving us audio description of the night's

(38:00):
proceedings and all held together by our technician, Ian Easton.
It's great to be here. Um, just a reminder, you
can donate to Carols by Candlelight on one 800, telephone
one 804 277. That's one 842 2077. We'll get you there.

(38:22):
Or you can go to VA radio and hit the
the donate button.

UU (38:30):
To you and to you at Christmas too. And God
bless you and send you a Happy New Year. And
God send you a happy New Year.

S3 (38:45):
Ah, CBC choir. I'm guessing 150 maybe.

S7 (38:50):
People Uncle Doug, we love that. Emma and I are
here with our mouths open. That was beautiful. And everybody.
Santa was just here. Did you all say hi to Santa? Good.
Talking about the importance of traditions. And, Emma, while you're here,
I want to ask you, what are some traditions in
your household of Christmas?

S20 (39:06):
Well, we play backyard cricket. There's a barbecue. Yep. Picnic.
And just a lot of presents. A lot of.

S7 (39:12):
And a lot of food.

S20 (39:13):
A lot of a lot of chocolate.

S7 (39:14):
A lot of chocolate. Before we go too much further,
I have to quickly mention our performing elves who are
with Santa tonight. Bonnie will be back later on. She's
going to come back singing. Colin, you can see Colin
the Elf in Peter and the Starcatcher, opening January in
Sydney and then on to Brisbane. And of course Sammy
J have a what a year he's had. He has
a national tour coming up, the kangaroo effect. And check

(39:38):
out Lenny's. Merry Lenny Christmas album with the tour to follow.
Kids it's going to be really good. So now that
Santa has left Emma, do you have a message to
all the kids out there?

S20 (39:47):
Well, it is a is a big night, and if
all the children are feeling a little bit tired, you
are allowed to go to sleep now. That's absolutely okay.
You don't have to stay up all night. We've seen
Santa and now it's time to go to bed.

S7 (40:00):
You've got to prep yourself for tomorrow's wrap, unwrapping all
those presents. So to my kids as well, Billy and Betty,
it's time. Whatever mama says goes, well, you know it's
Christmas when this next lady sings. We love em, don't we?

S20 (40:12):
I love Dami.

S7 (40:13):
We love Dami em, don't we? Everybody here. Well, her
illustrious career spans over a decade. She has lit up
stages worldwide, from the opera House to the Byron Bay
Bluesfest and everywhere in between. Her song Sound of Silence,
from the 2016 Eurovision Song Contest charted in 43 countries.

(40:34):
She is electric and she is ready to get this
place rocking.

S20 (40:38):
It's right now. Dami Im with all I want for
Christmas is you.

S7 (40:42):
Yeah.

UU (40:52):
I don't want a lot for Christmas. There is just
one thing I need. I don't care about the presents
underneath the Christmas tree. I just want you for my own.

(41:15):
More than you could ever know. Make my wish come true.
All I want for Christmas is you.

S3 (41:39):
Burnished toffee dress, strapless with tiered long skirt And very
ornate necklace.

UU (41:48):
There is just one thing I need and I don't
care about the present. All that needs a Christmas tree.
I want to hang my stocking there upon the fireplace.
Santa Claus won't make me happy with a toy on

(42:08):
Christmas Day. I just want you for my own. More
than you could ever know. Make my wish come true.
Oh baby, all I want for Christmas is you.

S3 (42:26):
Choir backing.

UU (42:27):
Her. I don't want a lot for Christmas. I won't
even wish for snow. I'm just gonna keep on waiting.
Underneath the mistletoe I won't make a list and send
it to the North Pole for Saint Me. I'm just

(42:50):
gonna stay awake to those magic reindeer. Click. And I
just want to get tonight. All in all to me
so tight. What more can I do? Oh, baby, all
I want for Christmas is you, baby. Oh, all the

(43:16):
lights are shining so brightly everywhere. And the sound of
children's laughter fills the air. And everyone is singing. I
hear those sleigh bells ringing. Santa, won't you bring me
the one I really need? Won't you be my baby?

(43:39):
Won't you please. I won't For much this Christmas. This
is all I'm asking for. I just want to see
my baby standing right outside my door. Oh, I just
want you for my own. More than you could ever know.

(43:59):
Make my wish come true. Oh, baby, all I want
for Christmas is you. You baby. All I know is
you baby. All I want for Christmas is you, baby. Oh, you.

(44:43):
Dami Im.

S7 (44:45):
That is how you do it. Thank you. Tommy. We'll
see you a little bit later on in the show.
And how amazing was that?

S20 (44:50):
I just love it.

S7 (44:51):
We have got the spirit of Christmas in us now. Now,
if I tell you that our next performer, you can
hear the crowd go crazy already is a compere, a
radio presenter, a recording artist, a news presenter. Who am
I speaking about without cheating? Emma. Tell us.

S20 (45:09):
Well, I know it's Dennis Walter. And he's having a
special birthday in January.

S7 (45:14):
Congratulations, Dennis. Happy birthday in advance. Dennis. So. Yes, Dennis.
Walter's done everything. He's even covered Nick Cave's The Ship
Song on his 1993 album songs from a Southern Land,
Volume one. Still waiting for volume two. Dennis. Maybe for
your birthday this year.

S20 (45:32):
Dennis has been sharing Christmas Eve with Australia since 1971,
so please give it up for Mr. Denis Walter. Thank you.

S3 (45:44):
In black tuxedo, white shirt. Center stage.

S21 (45:50):
It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas. Everywhere you go.
Take a look at the five and ten, glistening once
again with candy canes and silver lanes below. It's beginning
to look a lot like Christmas. Christmas toys in every store.

(46:18):
But the prettiest sight you'll see is the holly that
will be on your own front door. A pair of
boots and a pistol and shoots is the wish of
Darren and Bear dolls that can talk and.

UU (46:34):
Can go for a walk as the wish of Janice
and Jen, and Mom and dad can hardly wait for
school to start again.

S21 (46:42):
It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas. Everywhere you go,
there's a tree at the old hotel. There's one at
the park as well. The sturdy kind that doesn't mind
the snow. It's beginning to.

UU (47:02):
Look a lot like Christmas.

S21 (47:06):
Soon the bells will start. But the thing that.

UU (47:11):
Will make them ring is the carol that you sing
from within your heart. Ladies and gentlemen.

S21 (47:22):
What about Jon Foreman? This wonderful orchestra and choir.

UU (47:26):
Listen to that chorus. Beginning to look a lot like Christmas.

S21 (47:46):
Soon the bells will start. But the thing that will
make them ring is the carol that you sing from
within your heart. It's beginning to look.

UU (48:01):
A lot like Christmas. Christmas. Christmas. Christmas. Christmas. It's here.

S21 (48:18):
Thank you very much. Wonderful to be here. Uh, as
David mentioned, and I've been doing this for decades, and
I love it. It's like the first time. Every time.
It's very, very special. And hello to all the people
who are here at the at the Myer Music Bowl
watching on channel nine. Maybe listening on nine radio on
stations like three or my work home in Melbourne to GB,

(48:40):
four BC and six PR. The thing about Christmas is
that everyone gets to sing. Anyone in the audience who's
a good singer? Oh, that's going well. Anyone in the
audience who's a bad singer? Well, here's your chance. If
you know any of this next song, join in with me.

(49:01):
It's Christmas. A. Long time ago in Bethlehem. So the

(49:22):
Holy Bible says Mary's boy child Jesus Christ was born
on Christmas Day. Hark! Now hear the angels sing A

(49:44):
new king born today. And man will live forevermore because
of Christmas Day. While shepherds watched their flocks by night.

UU (50:07):
Them see a bright new shining star.

S21 (50:13):
And hear a choir sing. The music seemed.

UU (50:20):
To come from afar. Now Joseph and his wife Mary
came to Bethlehem that night and find no place to
board she child. Not a single room was inside. Hark!

(50:48):
Now hear the angels sing. A new king born today.
And man will live for evermore. Because of Christmas day.

(51:10):
Trumpets sound and angels sing. Listen to what they say.
That man will live forevermore. Because of Christmas Day. By

(51:33):
and by they found a little nook.

S21 (51:39):
In a stable.

UU (51:40):
All forlorn and in a manger, cold and dark. Mary's
little boy was born. Hark! Now hear the angels sing.

(52:01):
A new king born today. And man will live forevermore.
Because of Christmas day. Trumpets sound and angels sing. Listen

(52:25):
to what they say. That man will live forevermore because
of Christmas Day.

S22 (52:54):
And that story, meaning Merry Christmas.

S3 (52:57):
And candles are very obvious now. Both the electric type.

S7 (53:02):
Battery.

S3 (53:03):
And a real life flame.

S7 (53:04):
One song of Bright Star led the way, and tonight
the message is that we can all brighten the lives
of children who are blind or have low vision through
Vision Australia. Yes, we are brighter together.

S20 (53:17):
So please give what you can to help Vision Australia
light up the lives of children they support and their
wonderful families, either online at giftcards.com. Or call one 842 2077.

S7 (53:31):
You see, Joy is what tonight is about. And this
next lady brings it every single year she snuck out.
She was the first one to help me tonight. And
she's just the best. As promised, Casey Donovan, currently raising
the roof of Melbourne's Regent Theatre with sister act. Oh,
does she know she is? She's going to slay. Now

(53:54):
playing until January 26th, followed by Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth.
Make some space up there on the lawn because you're
going to want to get up on this one. You're
going to want to dance right here.

S20 (54:04):
She is the divine Casey Donovan and the cast of
Sister Act with joy to the world.

UU (54:14):
Joy to the world, the Lord is come. Let us
receive her.

S3 (54:31):
King. Casey at the front of her purple gown. Let
every heart cast behind her name.

S23 (54:46):
Let heaven, let heaven, heaven and nature.

UU (54:56):
Heaven and nature.

S24 (55:02):
Sing.

UU (55:08):
And everybody say, good Lord, to the world. For the Lord,
the Lord is come. Let earth receive her King. Men
in dark suits. Women in black dresses. Prepare him room.
And heaven and.

S18 (55:27):
Nature. Yes.

UU (55:28):
Heaven and nature. Sing. Sing. Tell him. Tell him. Glory, glory, glory.
The Savior is born. Heaven and heaven and nature. Sing. Joy,
joy for the Lord. The Lord is come. Let earth

(55:49):
receive her King. Let fields and floods. Rocks, hills and plains.
Repeat the sounding joy. Repeat the sounding joy. Tell his glory.
Shout out in store. The Savior is born. Love and heaven.

(56:13):
Heaven and nature. Sing. Joy to the world, for the
Savior reigns and makes his blessings flow. Joyful all ye
nations rise. Join the triumph of the skies. With angelic

(56:40):
host proclaim. Glory to the King. While the angels sing. Lord,
the Lord, the Lord is come. Let earth receive her king.
And every heart. Prepare him room. Go tell of his glory. Shout! Glory!

(57:10):
That the Savior is born. And heaven and nature sing. Heaven.
Heaven and nature sing. Merry Christmas. Still to.

S13 (57:34):
Come, the spellbinding Meg Washington.

S7 (57:37):
Carols royalties.

S13 (57:38):
Silvie Paladino a performance from Tim Campbell and the emotion.
21 dances that Will make Your heart sing. Simply the.

S3 (57:46):
Best star.

S7 (57:47):
Of Tina Turner, the musical tears up the stage.

S13 (57:51):
Bonnie Anderson returns.

S7 (57:53):
The one and only Anthony Callea is waiting in the wings.

S13 (57:58):
And Mitch Tambo combines with his wife Layla to showcase
the power of music.

S7 (58:03):
You're watching Vision Australia's Carols by Candlelight, presented by Amy.

UU (58:08):
Oh, it's a beautiful thing.

S1 (58:11):
Christmas On the Vision Australia radio network via Radio Digital,
online at RVA radio org and on stations around Australia
through the Reading Radio Network and the Community Radio Network.
You're listening to the audio description presentation of Vision Australia's
Carols by Candlelight.

S2 (58:37):
Yes, this is the audio description of Carols by Candlelight,
Carols by Candlelight coming from the Myer Music Bowl in Melbourne.
Suzie Hill, John Jenkins, are you will describe us for tonight's, uh, event.
Do you know the Carols by Candlelight? Started in 1938.
10,000 people turned up then, and they're still turning up. Now.

S25 (59:00):
If you will.

S26 (59:01):
As a parent, as soon as your child is born,
you have dreams of what you're going to do with
your child. But in Michael's case, as soon as he
was born, it was very obvious that there was a
problem with his eyes.

S13 (59:11):
He had over.

S27 (59:12):
30 operations to control the pressure in his eye.

S28 (59:17):
I can't see out of my left eye. I can
see a little bit from my right eye.

S27 (59:23):
We had a bit of an experience where one of
the doctors was really brutally honest, I suppose, and our
child was two days old and she said, I'm afraid
your child needs a cane and we cannot help him.

S26 (59:38):
So the moment our surgeon organized Vision Australia to knock
on our doors, it was just a massive relief. Seeing
the role that VA plays in our family and Mikhail's life,
it's very obvious that this is a lifelong partnership. They
gave us all those little building blocks.

S28 (59:55):
I would use a magnifying glass so I can read
what the writing is. My favorite sport would be goalball.
Everyone's blindfolded. We're all equal. We're all in the same boat.

S26 (01:00:08):
We shouldn't limit people. We should actually encourage them to
chase their dreams.

S28 (01:00:12):
The achievement I'm most proud of in goalball a Rising
Star medal that I won.

S27 (01:00:18):
There is potential. Fingers crossed for Paralympic representation.

S26 (01:00:21):
I want to tell anyone out there that the pain
and the concern doesn't change, but there's so many people
out there that can support and help you. And it's okay.
It's actually okay.

UU (01:00:37):
Hold back the river, Mikhail.

S7 (01:00:39):
It is more than just okay, mate. And here's the thing.
Mikhail's family have had such fantastic support over the years,
all working together to ensure that beautiful daredevil Mikhail achieves
all of his dreams from the brilliant surgeon still working
to save Mikhail's remaining sight to Vision Australia, stepping in

(01:01:00):
and giving him the tools to feel safe and confident
with each new challenge brighter together. You got it right
there and that is why you need to go to
give to Carol's com or phone one 842 2077. Now,
just quickly before I move on the sunset tonight is

(01:01:20):
just gorgeous over the Sidney Myer Music Bowl. We're just
taking a shot there. Melbourne, you are looking so pretty
tonight girl. It is very, very gorgeous. And last year
we were rained out. But that is not going to
happen tonight. Now we know you all love carols, but
who here loves a good Christmas movie? A the big

(01:01:42):
one this year is of course Australian made and it's
how to make gravy. This movie is so good, I
adored it. Our next performer wrote, co-produced and contributed original
compositions to the soundtrack and she's also in it. This
lady is genre defying. She's been nominated for ten arias.

(01:02:04):
She's won four. She's also the voice of the school
teacher Calypso in Bluey. Kids, you know the teacher. So
with the pretenders Christmas classic 2000 Miles, please welcome to
the Bowl the mighty make Washington.

UU (01:02:25):
DC. He's gone 2000 miles. It's very far. The snow

(01:02:47):
is falling down. Gets colder day by day I miss you.
The children are Singing. He'll be back at Christmas time.

S3 (01:03:11):
In a short black V-neck dress. Guitarist to her right.

UU (01:03:15):
Accompanying her in these frozen and silent night. Sometimes in
a dream you appear. Outside. Under a purple sky. Diamonds

(01:03:37):
in the snow. Sparkle. Our hearts were singing. Oh, it
felt like Christmas time. 2000 Us is very far through

(01:04:05):
the snow. I think of you wherever you go. He's
gone 2000 miles. It's very far. The snow is falling down.

(01:04:40):
Gets colder day by day. I miss you. I can
hear people singing. Oh, it must be Christmas time. I

(01:05:01):
can hear people singing. Oh, it must be Christmas time.

(01:05:25):
Merry Christmas to you and Meg.

S7 (01:05:26):
Thank you so much for being here. I just want
to point out, of course, that so many stars are
here tonight. They are donating their time, and even if
there was a blatant plug or something like that, trust me,
we here at carols are clever enough. We try to
mix it in with the script. We try to just
keep it a little bit subtle, play it down a
little bit. Am I right?

S10 (01:05:45):
Jon Foreman yes, that's absolutely right. If you're going to
do a plug at carols, it has to be subtle
and understated, which is why I want to mention December
30th and 31, the New Year's Eve gala at Arts
Centre Melbourne. It's going to be fantastic. Silvie. Paladino. Josh. Piterman. Paul. Leni.
The jolly dancers. My 60 piece Australian pops orchestra. It's
the best way to ring in the New Year. Matinée

(01:06:07):
evening shows December 30th and 31. APO concerts. Book now,
because tickets are going to sell fast, especially after this
subtle and understated plug. David.

S3 (01:06:18):
Thank you. Film clip behind with large letters. Very blatant plug.
Tickets still.

S7 (01:06:26):
Available. It's truly one of the nicest guys in showbiz
this year. He has continued to light up dance floors
with his band, performing an 80s classic oh seven, and
he's been touring with his husband Anthony Callea on their
fabulous hit show Songs of Elton and George Tour. It
has sold out in Melbourne and Sydney, and in 2025
they will embark on a 30 date national tour covering

(01:06:49):
all corners of our beautiful country. He is going regional
so please welcome Uber festive Tim Campbell and your Christmas
to me. Tim.

S3 (01:07:02):
Christmas is coming in from the left. Dark suit over.
Dark shirt, open neck.

UU (01:07:08):
You're the only gift I need. And I used up
all my wishes. If they only made you see. What
a special time of year for the joy of festive cheer.
There's no better night for miracles. And I believe.

S18 (01:07:27):
That you're the Christmas to me. Christmas. Christmas to me.
Ice cold wind. As the carolers sing. On the doorstep.
Out of.

UU (01:07:36):
The snow. Fire so bright. It's a wonderful life. Everybody
keeps telling me so. And when I see your starry
eyes under the mistletoe. Make you want to sing. Let
the jingle bells ring. It's time to rock and Can
roll the whole year. I've been loving you, dear. Every

(01:07:58):
day feels more like a dream. Snow on the ground
when the shock is all around. As we walk down
Carnaby Street. The people rushing home to spend the night
with family. Stocking to the brim. Baby, it don't mean
a thing. Cause you're Christmas to me. You're the star

(01:08:19):
upon the tree. You're the only gift I need. And
I'd use up all my wishes. If it only made
you see. What a special time of year. Full of
joy and festive cheer. There's no better night for miracles.
And I believe the joy.

S18 (01:08:41):
Of Christmas to me.

UU (01:08:43):
Oh, yeah. Fairy lights on every cloud has been sung.
The more wine's making me fall. It's making me those
who can't be here tonight. Oh, heavens. Deck the halls.
We raise a glass to everlasting love. For one and all.
All right. It is time to raise your lights and

(01:09:04):
your candles. Make them sway from side to side. You're
the star upon the tree. You're the only gift I need.
And I use them all my wishes. If he only
made you see. What a special time of year for
the joy and festive cheer. There's no better night for miracles.

S3 (01:09:29):
And I believe for you. Candles moving from side to side.
Kim Stuart has glittering lapels and tops of shoulders.

S15 (01:09:39):
Christmas to you all. All right. I have to say
this next song. I am so, so, so excited to
share the stage with some incredible dancers we're about to.

S29 (01:09:49):
Bring out here now. I've been an ambassador for the
Inclusion Foundation for probably about ten years now. And they're
their pilot program called emotion 21, which still runs today,
has great dance and fitness programs for people with down syndrome.
So I cannot wait to showcase some incredible talent on stage.
Now for this next song, though, you'll all know it.

(01:10:09):
So we please encourage you to get involved. Raise the
lights more, so raise your voices. But for now, we
need the biggest cheer at the ball we've ever had.
Would you please welcome on stage the incredible dancers from
emotion 21.

S3 (01:10:30):
A. Group of young men and women.

UU (01:10:38):
You better not pout. I'm telling you why. Santa Claus
is coming to town. Santa.

S3 (01:10:45):
Women in black dress, a red Loss is coming. Men
in black pants, red vest over white shirt, red bow tie.

S18 (01:10:56):
Twice he's gonna find out who's naughty or nice.

UU (01:11:00):
One. Santa Claus is coming to town. Santa Claus is
coming to town. Santa Claus is coming. He's coming to town.

S3 (01:11:11):
358 of them.

UU (01:11:13):
When he sees you. When you're sleeping. Emily. He knows
when you're awake. He knows if you've been bad or good.
So be good for goodness.

S3 (01:11:24):
Dancing in pairs.

UU (01:11:26):
You better watch out. You better not cry. You better
not pout. I'm telling you why. Santa Claus is coming
to town. Santa Claus is coming.

S3 (01:11:37):
Now in two lines behind.

UU (01:11:39):
Time and time again. We want to be free. Everybody
here now. So I need everybody to stand up. Come on,
stand up. Get on your feet. Even on the grass
at the back. We want to include you in our dance.
Help me up front. Here we go.

S3 (01:11:56):
Now. Moving in a circle behind him.

UU (01:12:01):
And he knows when you're awake. Come on now. He
knows if you've been bad or good. So be good,
for goodness sake. Here we go. Oh, you better watch out.
You better not cry.

S3 (01:12:15):
Now in a kick line.

UU (01:12:16):
With Tim in the middle. Santa Claus is coming to town.
Santa Claus is coming to town. Santa Claus is coming.
Santa Claus is coming. Santa Claus is coming to the finish.
Here we go. We'll tell.

S3 (01:12:47):
They finished center stage.

UU (01:12:49):
Hands up! Now! Yes. Emotion 21. Give it up for them. Wow.

(01:13:10):
That was amazing. Thank you. Jim and the emotions. 21 dancers, everybody.

S7 (01:13:15):
Tim! Tim, pop! Over here! Come over here, mate. Mate,
that was everyone. Just getting back and sitting down. Everyone
was on their feet. He had everyone pumping their. That
was so great, buddy. Awesome. Love that. They are so
much fun. Some tough Corey there for you too.

S29 (01:13:30):
I know I'm always I said, don't look at me.
I'm the one who always messes up the choreography.

S7 (01:13:34):
Dance captain.

S29 (01:13:35):
They're the professionals, trust me. So oh so good.

S7 (01:13:37):
Tell me how much it means to you to dance
with them tonight of all nights.

S29 (01:13:40):
Well, I've been with them for many years, and they're
just incredible dancers. And I and I just had an
idea this year. How about we get them on the
greatest stage to showcase their talent around the country and
around the world? So thank you to Carols by Candlelight
for having your motion 21. It's brilliant. And, um, it's
so infectious. As you know, being entertainers, we just it's
just so infectious. That's the reason why we entertain. And
so thank you all for your encouragement tonight as well.

S15 (01:14:01):
Oh, I think they felt it.

S7 (01:14:02):
I think they felt it coming from the stage, from
the dancers and from you, mate. I just love how
music brings communities together. For the past 40 years, the
Australian Girls Choir has been proud to play a role
in the growth and development of girls across the country,
and we are proud they have played such a valuable
part in Carols by Candlelight over many years. Tim, a
quick question. I asked it earlier before, but do you

(01:14:23):
have a favorite Christmas movie?

S29 (01:14:27):
Um, I want to say Bad Santa, but probably not
a good one to pick. Um, actually go on. Actually,
you probably haven't seen it. They never play it on TV,
but it's called love. Actually, I don't know, you've probably
never seen it, but, um. Yeah, the the Emma Thompson moment.

S7 (01:14:39):
No, don't don't. I'll start. Don't don't get her a
CD of something. To you anyway. Anyway, we could go on.
Mines die hard, just in case you're wondering. But this.
This song they sing tonight. I actually saw this performed
recently with the Sydney Symphony Opera House. It's from a
remarkable John Williams soundtrack to the Christmas film Home Alone.
And under the baton of their leader, Vicky King, the

(01:15:01):
Australian Girls Choir with somewhere in My memory.

S3 (01:15:32):
The Australian Girls Choir in their pink tunics over black trousers.

UU (01:15:36):
Candles in the With dark shadows painting the ceiling. About
40 of them sitting at the main floor. Feeling that gingerbread. Feeling.

(01:16:01):
Precious moments. Special people. Happy faces I can see. Somewhere
in my memory. Christmas joys all around me. Living in

(01:16:27):
my memories. All about using all of the All of
the family home is with me.

S4 (01:16:53):
And there are shots.

UU (01:16:55):
Of the camera soaring over the crowd, handles waving down
towards the sides where the birds are singing in my memory.
Christmas joys all around me. Living in my memory. All

(01:17:20):
of the music. All of the magic. All of the
family home.

S30 (01:17:32):
Sweet From the staff and volunteers at the Vision Australia

(01:17:54):
radio Network. We'd like to wish you. He's becoming a
lot more alert and aware of what's going on around her.
She asks a lot. Is she different? Can you see mummy?
She's asked why can't I see? Yeah, it's been hard.
But we focus on her strengths. She's so confident. She's

(01:18:15):
so able. You know she's not a quitter. She never
gives up. We had a two day stay in hospital
to get her diagnosis. You know, I'm a single mum,
and receiving news like that on your own is devastating.
Once we receive that diagnosis, we were referred to Vision Australia,
who contacted me within a week. They were so prompt

(01:18:39):
they offered support straight away. We had OTS coming to
the house within a few weeks. Vision taught me the
right language to use. Doing like little affirmations with her
in the morning. It it really helps her. Like, you know,
reminding her how brave she is, how beautiful she is. Hey,
it's a beautiful night. Molly starts prep next year, 2025.

(01:19:04):
She's walking, she's talking. She's doing everything she needs to
do to be independent and to be at a mainstream
school and to be learning like every other kid can. Oh,
I think she'll be a DJ or a CEO for sure.

UU (01:19:19):
I don't want to marry him.

S1 (01:19:31):
On the Vision Australia radio network via Radio Digital, online
at Viva Radio. Org and on stations around Australia through
the Reading Radio Network and the Community Radio Network. You're
listening to the audio description presentation of Vision Australia's Carols
by Candlelight.

S2 (01:19:54):
And welcome back to Carols by Candlelight. The Vision Australia
audio description of the proceedings from the Sidney Myer Music
Bowl here in Melbourne. The first Carols by Candlelight was
held in 1938, when they about 10,000 people turned up
to Alexandra Gardens. It moved to the Myer Music Bowl

(01:20:16):
in 1959, and it's still attracting anything up to 10,000 people.
And it's a packed house there tonight. They're waiting in
pretty keen anticipation for what's coming up next.

S7 (01:20:31):
Here we.

UU (01:20:32):
Go. I'm dreaming of a white Christmas. With every Christmas
card I write. May your days be merry and bright.

(01:21:02):
And may all your Christmases be white. Give yourself a
round of applause. That was so fabulous.

S7 (01:21:21):
Our audience sound fantastic tonight, don't they, Bonnie? Thank you
for joining me on that, too. Why Christmas? The movie
and the song celebrates 70 years this Christmas. Isn't that amazing?
The great Irving Berlin song. It is so over all
the versions, it sold 100 million copies. Oh, to be
the publishing on that one. Bonnie, it is a Bing

(01:21:43):
Crosby classic. Do you have a favorite version? Oh, I.

S11 (01:21:47):
Do. I like Elvis, I like Jessie J, but I
think I like Otis's version the best.

S7 (01:21:52):
Otis Redding's.

S11 (01:21:52):
Version.

S7 (01:21:52):
Otis Redding no, I like it when Macaulay Culkin does it.
I like that part. All right. Here is someone that
we could listen to all day long over Christmas dinner.
She truly embodies the spirit of carols. Silvie Paladino most
recently I'll Hold for applause. Most recently seen in the
role of Norma Desmond in the hit musical Sunset Boulevard.

(01:22:15):
Next week, you might have seen a little plug before.
Silvie will be performing with John for New Year's Eve
gala concert at the Arts Centre in Melbourne.

S11 (01:22:23):
Singing Noel with the Carols by Candlelight Choir.

UU (01:22:26):
Please welcome Silvie Paladino. The first Noel, the angel.

S23 (01:22:45):
Did say, was to certain poor shepherds.

UU (01:22:53):
In fields as they lay.

S23 (01:22:58):
In fields where they lay.

UU (01:23:04):
Keeping their sheep on a cold winter's night that was
so deep. Noel, L Noel Noel Noel, born is the

(01:23:36):
King of Israel in sequined gown with lemon.

S3 (01:23:47):
Draping over the top.

S23 (01:23:50):
And let us all.

UU (01:23:55):
With one accord, sing praises to our heavenly Lord, that
hath made heaven and earth of naught and with his

(01:24:25):
blood mankind hath bought. Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel born is
the King of Israel. Er. Oh. He is born. He

(01:25:03):
is born. The Son of God has come to dwell.
The King of Kings and Lord of lords. He is born.

(01:25:24):
He is born. Come on now. Go and tell. He
has come to save the world. We sing. Noel. Noel. Noel. Noel. Noel.

(01:25:52):
The King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Emmanuelle. Noel. Noel. Noel. Noel.

(01:26:13):
He has come to save the world. We sing nowhere now.
Praise you. Jesus. Bravo! Bravo, Toby! Wow, Sylvie. Wow!

S7 (01:26:43):
Merry Christmas to you. My goodness, Bonnie, wasn't that astounding?

S11 (01:26:46):
I had a few tears.

S7 (01:26:47):
Yeah, I know. Me too. Now, Bonnie, you are the
only elf that I know here with a two year old.
How is it going with young Bobby in your life? Oh,
he's giving you a burst of energy. But has he really?
Is it? Or is it just the lack of sleep?

S11 (01:27:01):
Look, it's a bit of everything. He's a wild child, but,
you know, he's my child, so I kind of kind of,
you know, had it coming for me.

S7 (01:27:08):
No, it's all good. And 2024 saw you release some
new music as well. Yeah, but even more interest to
me is that you have spent the past month down
at Virgin Australia. Down as their Chief Fun Officer, which is.

S11 (01:27:19):
The perfect. That was my title.

S7 (01:27:21):
Is that your title?

S11 (01:27:21):
Perfect, I loved it. I hope there.

S7 (01:27:22):
Was a badge with that too. So, um, now, is
that what you have to do with it? Because you
did a big fundraiser, a big Santa run?

S11 (01:27:28):
Yes, it was amazing. Look, we were there for Vision Australia.
There was lots to do. It was great. It was
the second time in Melbourne we went to Sydney as
well and the kids loved it. Santa came and we
just had the greatest time and people ran, ran and
we raised some money.

S7 (01:27:41):
Yeah, this is of course their big fundraiser night. So
if you are like Bonnie and you want to have
a good example of their message this Christmas, it's brighter
together supporting children who are blind or have low vision
and their families, as you've seen in the videos tonight,
to live the life that they choose.

S11 (01:27:55):
Yeah, they are a great cause. I know that firsthand.
And if you can go to give it to Carol's,
give to Carol's dot com or phone one 842 2077
and donate, please donate.

S7 (01:28:08):
It's a really great cause. All right, look, you're out here.
You've got a fantastic dress on. Would you mind going
getting ready to go to go sing for us.

S11 (01:28:15):
Oh! I'm excited. Let's do it. Let's do.

S7 (01:28:17):
It. All right, I'll do a big wound up for
you now. Chief fun, officer Bonnie is with us tonight.
She tours, she writes. She looks after her gorgeous Bobby.
But most of all, she loves spreading the magic and
the festive fields with underneath the tree. Please bowl and
everyone at home. Put your hands together for the wonderful
Bonnie Anderson.

UU (01:28:41):
Billy. The king where he should be. Snow is falling
as the careless sing just was in the same alone
on Christmas Day.

S3 (01:28:56):
Soft gold gown, strapless full skirt.

UU (01:29:01):
You ain't holding me tight. You're all that I need
underneath the tree.

S23 (01:29:09):
Tonight I'm gonna hold you close.

UU (01:29:15):
Make sure that you know I was lost before you.
Christmas was cold and grey. Another holiday alone to celebrate.

S23 (01:29:33):
Then one day.

UU (01:29:36):
Everything changed. You're already underneath the tree. You're here where
you should be. Snow is falling as the characters sing.
Just wasn't the same. Alone on Christmas Day. Presents. What
a beautiful sight. Don't mean a thing. If you would

(01:29:59):
hold me tight. You're all that I need. Underneath the tree.
Found what I was looking for A love that's meant
for me. A heart that's mine completely knocked me right

(01:30:21):
off my feet. And next year I will fall with
no worries at all. Cause you are near and everything's clear.
You're all I need. Underneath the tree. The king that
it should be. Snow is falling as the carolers sing.

(01:30:45):
The road that I've been underneath the tree. What a
beautiful sight. Don't mean a thing. If you ain't holding
me tight. You're all that I need. Underneath the trees.
Look at you all up there. So beautiful. And then.

S23 (01:31:16):
One day, everything's changed. You're all I need.

UU (01:31:23):
Underneath the tree. Oh, yeah. Oh, underneath the tree. Oh. Yeah.
You're all that I need. Underneath the tree. Merry Christmas everybody.

(01:31:53):
Much love to you. She waves to the crowd as
she leaves the stage.

S3 (01:32:01):
Also acknowledges the musicians.

S7 (01:32:03):
For being a huge supporter. Well, it is now time
for another one of our traditions Hear the Hallelujah chorus. Everybody.
This is a big one for those at home on
the couch. I find that this is the moment that
the singers step up and really dominate. This is Uncle
Doug's moment out front, conducting his choir. Here he comes.
Get ready to raise your candles. Here at the ball.

(01:32:24):
Raise them up. Let's see them and join in on
the tradition. As the Carols by Candlelight choir perform the
Hallelujah chorus. Uncle Doug.

UU (01:32:43):
Hallelujah. Hallelujah. Hallelujah. Hallelujah. Hallelujah. Hallelujah. Hallelujah. Hallelujah. Hallelujah. Hallelujah.

S3 (01:33:00):
As per tradition, many are standing in.

UU (01:33:02):
The audience 10th grader. Alleluia. Alleluia. Alleluia. Alleluia. La la
la la la Fontaine's. Praise him. Hallelujah. Hallelujah. Hallelujah. Hallelujah.

(01:33:23):
FA la la la la la la la la la
la la la la la la la la la la
la la la la la.

S3 (01:33:38):
Jon Foreman walked in with two enormous symbols.

UU (01:33:47):
Of the kingdom of this world.

S3 (01:33:55):
Uncle Doug conducts this.

UU (01:33:58):
Sir John. Symbols. And of his life and of his birth.
And he shall reign forever and ever. And he shall
reign for ever and ever. And we shall reign for

(01:34:21):
ever and ever. Amen. And he shall reign for ever
and ever. King of kings, forever and ever. Hallelujah. Hallelujah.
And Lord of Lords. And. King of Kings. And Lord

(01:34:51):
of Lords. Forever and ever. Hallelujah. Hallelujah. And the King and.
La la la la la la la la la. When
we shall reign, he shall reign. We shall, we shall,

(01:35:16):
we shall reign. He shall reign for ever and ever.
King of kings, forever and ever. And Lord of lords.
And he shall reign forever and ever. King of kings

(01:35:39):
and Lord of lords. King of some form and wandering
the sizes, the symbols.

S4 (01:35:45):
Just waiting for his knowledge.

UU (01:35:49):
And it's coming for. Us. Alleluia.

S4 (01:36:01):
He comes down the front of the stage.

UU (01:36:05):
Cymbals raised. Cymbals smashed. Yes. Yes.

S7 (01:36:21):
Uncle Doug and the CBC choir. Well, well done everybody.
You're fabulous tonight. That was great candle work. How do
you follow that? Well, you follow it with a world first.
Mitch Tambo and his wife, Lele, a renowned singer in
her own right, have never performed a duet together until now.
Tonight marks a beautiful milestone in their family. Sung in

(01:36:43):
both English and Gamilaroi, this is the first single in
a number of extraordinary collaborations between this remarkable couple. They
are supported by the Melbourne Gospel Choir, world artist Mitch Tambo,
everybody and the voice of Lele with amazing Grace.

S3 (01:37:12):
McMahon. Didgeridoo. Melbourne Gospel Choir in black clothing scattered across
the stage.

UU (01:37:21):
What are we gonna do now? One memory of. His
traditional headband with feather around his head. The other one.

(01:37:50):
You could never belong to Me. Amazing grace. How sweet
the sound. That saved a wretch like me. I once

(01:38:21):
was lost, but now I'm found. Was blind. But now
I see. Oh well. What a guy. His jacket. Sleeveless

(01:38:56):
over black pants. Na na na na na na. Oh. Come,

(01:39:17):
let us sing. Grace. How sweet the sound. That saved
a wretch like me.

S3 (01:39:32):
Lei lei stress. Sequined Burgundy bodice.

UU (01:39:36):
I once was lost. But now I'm found. Was blind.
But now I see.

S3 (01:39:52):
Full length gathered raspberry skirt.

UU (01:39:57):
Of a long arm.

S3 (01:40:12):
Hand-painted images on her skirt.

S1 (01:40:23):
On the Vision Australia radio network via Radio Digital. Online
at Via radio and on stations around Australia through the
Reading Radio Network and the Community Radio Network. You're listening
to the audio description presentation of Vision Australia's Carols by Candlelight.

S2 (01:40:44):
And yes, you are listening to the audio description of
Carols by Candlelight and a reminder that Carols by Candlelight
is a very important fundraiser for Vision Australia. You can
donate via telephone calling one 842 2077. That's one 842 2077.

(01:41:04):
Or you can go to the website give to carols.com.
That's give to carols.com. As I say, it's a very
important means to keep the services of Vision Australia funded
for the next year. Carols by candlelight is typically draws
around 10,000 people, and I've no doubt that there are

(01:41:26):
close to 10,000 people in the Myer Music Bowl tonight
because the grounds look absolutely packed. They're broadcast live on
channel nine and on three four here in Melbourne and
across the country on Vision Australia Radio, giving us nationwide reception.

S31 (01:41:46):
Hi. I'm Lily. Music has always been my happy place.
It's always been a place where I can fit in
and belong.

S32 (01:41:55):
Little's singing voice moves me to tears.

S33 (01:41:59):
Do you remember.

S31 (01:42:02):
Me? Vision Australia were part of my life from a
very young age especially. I know that they had a
huge impact on my parents.

S32 (01:42:10):
We had a beautiful childhood educator called Sally. She educated
us so that we'd have the capacity to educate Lil.

S31 (01:42:17):
I believe myself to be lucky. I live a happy life.
I think a lot of people would consider me unlucky
because I'm blind.

S32 (01:42:23):
Lil is Lil. Lil is not defined by her blindness.
Blindness is such a small part of her life.

S21 (01:42:30):
But are you feeling a bit nervous about being on
stage in front of maybe 30 or 40,000 people?

S28 (01:42:35):
Not really. I'm actually quite confident.

S7 (01:42:37):
Lily is here. Everybody say hi to Lily.

S31 (01:42:40):
This is the vision. Australia has given me such amazing
opportunities over the years. I've got an got an amazing
family and I've got an amazing support network, and I've
managed to pursue so many of my dreams.

S32 (01:42:52):
Bill can do absolutely anything if she has the right support.

S34 (01:42:56):
A 17 year old Melbourne schoolgirl who's been blind since
birth is blazing the trail for performers living with a disability.

S31 (01:43:04):
Yeah, I had the wonderful experience earlier this year to
be cast in a professional musical called The Grinning Man.
I'd like more people with disabilities to be able to
be seen on stage. So far, blindness has not stopped me.
I don't plan to let it stop me in the future.

S7 (01:43:21):
No, I think it's not going to stop her at all.
It is not going to stop her at all. What
a beautiful, positive story of Vision Australia providing the tools
for success. Rob Lily's family have a long association with
this night. Did you know this? No. Lily's great grandparents,
Ray and Dot Horton, actually sang with the choir in

(01:43:41):
the late 70s for a number of years.

S29 (01:43:43):
Yeah. Here we.

S7 (01:43:44):
Go. Let's have a look.

UU (01:43:46):
Oh, look. Oh, there's Brian Naylor there, too.

S7 (01:43:53):
Like Lily's family. This is straight in for the long haul.
Brighton together. That is how it's done. Stepping in, lighting
up the lives of those who are blind or have
low vision. So please keep giving it. Give to Carol's.
Com or call one 800 422 77. And we really
can make a difference together. Hey mate, speaking of longevity,
our next performer is celebrating 20 years since his very

(01:44:14):
first Carol's performance in 2004. We made a hint of
that before. Are you guys here ready for some Kalia? Whoa, hey! Whoa, whoa.
He's been toying with Tim performing the songs of Elton
John and George Michael. So tonight he has chosen to
perform the number one song in England at the moment,
the Wham! Christmas classic. And ever since Australian Idol back

(01:44:36):
in the day, Anthony always brings a world class performance
to Carols By Candlelight. We definitely cannot wait, so please
Welcome Anthony Callea and last Christmas.

S3 (01:44:46):
And always some interesting clothing. Be interesting to see what
he's wearing this year.

S4 (01:44:55):
The callea gear.

UU (01:45:11):
Last Christmas I gave you my heart. But the very
next day you gave it away. This year, to save
me from tears I'll give it to someone special. Once bitten,

(01:45:32):
twice shy I keep my distance. But you still catch
my eye.

S35 (01:45:39):
Tell me baby.

UU (01:45:41):
Do you recognize me? Well, it's been a year.

S35 (01:45:45):
It doesn't surprise me. Happy Christmas. I wrapped it up.

UU (01:45:50):
And sent it with an unsent. I love you. I
meant it. Now I know what a fool I've been.
But you kissed me. Now I know you'd fool me again.
Last Christmas I gave you my heart. But the very
next day you gave it away. This year. To save

(01:46:16):
me from tears I'll give it to someone special. Special.
This Christmas I give you my heart. But the very
next day. You gave it away. This year. To save
me from tears I'll give it to someone. Give it

(01:46:38):
to A month. Fisher. Had made friends with Titus, hiding
from you and your soul of ice back. I thought
you were someone to rely on. I guess I was

(01:47:01):
a shoulder to cry on. A face on a lover
with a fire in his heart. A man undercover. But
you tore me apart. Oh, now I've found a real love.
You'll never fool me again. Oh yeah. Last Christmas I

(01:47:26):
gave you my heart. But the very next day you
gave it away. This year. To save me from tears
I'll give it to someone special. Special. Last Christmas I
gave you my heart. But the very next day. You

(01:47:47):
gave it away. This year. To save me from tears
I'll give it to someone. Give it to someone special.

S3 (01:48:06):
Olive green satin jacket and pants. Asymmetric top, double breasted
thin ropes of crystal from.

S15 (01:48:15):
Who doesn't love a.

S3 (01:48:15):
Bold and also twisted around both arms and dangling down
to his.

S15 (01:48:20):
Knees, is 40 years old.

S35 (01:48:24):
It's a testament to the late, great George Michael and
his ability not only as a phenomenal male vocalist, but
as a brilliant songwriter. And Last Christmas and George Michael's
music will live on for generations to come and excite
audiences for for many years to come. And it's so
much of a privilege to be able to stand on
this stage and celebrate his music and sing Last Christmas.

(01:48:46):
So thank you. Um, in Australia, we are so lucky
to live here and to celebrate Christmas the way that
we do with friends and family, whatever Christmas may mean
to you. But unfortunately, as we all know, Christmas this
year will not be safe or happy for many people
around the world. And this next song definitely encapsulates the

(01:49:09):
sentiment that we do need peace on earth. It's a
beautiful song that I came across called I Heard the
Bells on Christmas Day. And can you please welcome some
very talented singers to sing it with me this evening,
members from the Australian Girls Choir and the National Boys Choir.

S36 (01:49:38):
I heard the.

S35 (01:49:39):
Bells on Christmas Day.

UU (01:49:44):
Their old familiar carols play. And mild and sweet. The
songs repeat. Of Peace on Earth. Good will to men.

(01:50:05):
And the bells that ring in summer. Let is sing in.

S4 (01:50:18):
The choir boys.

UU (01:50:19):
Are in long white robes. And choir girls in long
white robes. Back in line and where to land and
in despair I bowed my head.

S35 (01:50:38):
There is no peace on earth.

S21 (01:50:41):
I said.

UU (01:50:44):
For hate is strong and mocks the song of peace
on earth. Good will to men. And the bells ringing.

(01:51:05):
The choir singing. Do you hear them ringing? Peace on earth.
Good will to men. Hearing the bells more And indeed

(01:51:31):
he is not dead, nor does he sleep. Peace on earth.
Peace on earth shall build and prevail. With peace on earth.
Good will to men. On the good shall be singing.

(01:52:08):
Open your heart again. Peace on earth. Good will to men.

(01:52:28):
The life of the world is singing. Open your heart
and hear them. Peace on earth. Good will to men.

(01:52:51):
Peace on earth. Good will to men.

S35 (01:53:08):
Happy Christmas everyone.

S7 (01:53:12):
Wow! Incredible. Just an absolute wow for me, Anthony. And
for all those playing cards by candlelight. Bingo at home.
Mark that off the list. Absolutely. Sparkly microphone was out.
It was fantastic. Now, heads up for those watching Rob.

S4 (01:53:24):
Mills presenting here with.

S7 (01:53:26):
Yesterday. Campbell. Stand by. Check your. Fitbit has enough charge
or your Apple Watch for your millennials out there. You're
about to max out. The next lady is the definition
of powerhouse. Reuven Wenger is epic. She is the star
of the Tina Turner musical, and in the whole three hours,
she barely leaves the stage. Yeah. And Australia. Good news.

(01:53:48):
The season has been extended one final time. David must
close March 25th. But I cannot wait. Let's do it.
Let's do it. This lightning bolt is here right now.
Please welcome Singing Christmas, baby, please come home. Yay!

UU (01:54:08):
Oh! Oh, yeah. I'm moving in a long silver glittery gown.
In three separate scenes. The snow's coming I'm watching it
for Christmas. Lots of people around Christmas. Baby, please come home.

(01:54:37):
The church bells in town. Christmas ringing Christmas. Happy town Christmas, baby,
please come home. They're singing deck the halls. But it's
not like Christmas at all. Cause I remember when you

(01:55:00):
were here. And all the fun that we had last year.
With the lights on the trees. Christmas. Watching them shine. Christmas.
You should be here with me. Baby, please don't go.

(01:55:22):
Merry Christmas. Spirit.

S4 (01:55:30):
Who's clapping from the choir as the river.

UU (01:55:32):
Comes down right to the front of the stage? They're
singing deck the halls. But it's not like Christmas at all.
Cause I remember when you were here. And all the
fun that we had last year. If there was a

(01:55:53):
way I'd hold back the tears. But it's Christmas day. Please, please,
please baby, please please please baby come. Oh yeah baby

(01:56:16):
please come home. Please come home. Oh, yeah. That's driven

(01:56:36):
by your tickets. Yes. Rumor.

S7 (01:56:39):
Tina Turner and Tina Turner the musical. Now playing at
Melbourne's Princess Theatre. Thank you. River. You're an absolute star. Mwah!
Love you. Rob, you are singing. Shortly you've been touring
the fantastic Bon Jovi playlist. Is that what we're doing?
A little bit of this here tonight. A bit of
mullet that. We're getting a bit of mullet out tonight.
This is my rock star. This is me just not
having a haircut since and Juliet. But I could do

(01:57:00):
a shot to the heart. And you're to blame, darling.
You give Christmas a bad name. Fantastic. It all works.
And of course, tonight you'll be singing it with Bobby
Fox again. I see you wearing your lucky jacket. Yes, mate.
Every year I wear the same red velvet jacket. And
so does Jon Foreman. Jon Foreman also wears the exact
same jacket. So it is our is our lucky jacket.
Bob wears the green. I wear the red. Feeling good?

(01:57:22):
I'm feeling good. Why change it? It's a classic. So
the names keep on coming. Dami Im is back. Because
just because we love her so much. And congratulations are
in order. A new number one album. And everybody here
at the ball. We can announce a new baby on
the way for Dami Im two. That's right. A beautiful
moment and a beautiful moment just got even more special.

(01:57:43):
And his Christmas songbook. We are about to hear the
new single Dami Im with Silent Night.

S37 (01:57:56):
Silent night.

UU (01:58:00):
Holy night. All is calm, all is.

S37 (01:58:12):
Bright.

UU (01:58:15):
Round The virgin mother and child. Holy, so tender and mild.
Sleep in heavenly.

S37 (01:58:39):
Peace. Sleep in heavenly peace.

S4 (01:58:55):
Silent night dummy is backed by about ten singers, all
holding a candle and darkness. There is occasionally seen.

UU (01:59:07):
Lovely pictures of babies sitting in silence. Glory streamed From
heaven afar. Heavenly hosts sing. Alleluia. Christ the Savior is born.

(01:59:37):
Christ the Savior is born. I live my life. For

(01:59:59):
love your light. Radiant beams from thy holy face. The
dawn of redeeming grace. Jesus, Lord, at thy birth. Jesus, Lord,

(02:00:41):
at thy birth. Merry Christmas everyone. You're watching Vision Australia's

(02:01:04):
Carols by Candlelight.

S13 (02:01:06):
Coming up, the soul stirring Mahalia Barnes leads an all
star cast from Jesus Christ Superstar Casey Donovan is back
to blow us away.

S7 (02:01:15):
The inspirational Tarryn Stokes will enchant you.

S13 (02:01:18):
We let Rob Mills and Bobby Fox loose. You think
we would have learnt by now.

S7 (02:01:23):
In a night of mighty traditions? David Hobson again sees
his home with his powerful voice.

S13 (02:01:30):
But not before Jess Hitchcock and my mate DC sing
the house down.

S7 (02:01:35):
It is such an honour to sing with Jess.

S13 (02:01:37):
Christmas how it should be. Keep sharing the love of Australia.

S1 (02:01:48):
On the Vision Australia Radio Network via Radio Digital, online
at RVA radio and on stations around Australia through the
Reading Radio Network and the Community Radio Network. You are
listening to the audio description presentation of Vision Australia's Carols
by Candlelight.

S2 (02:02:09):
And just to just to expand a little bit on that,
we are broadcasting on print radio in Tasmania, radio two
in Sydney and across the Community Radio Network, but of
course also across all of the Vision Australia radio network,
which includes stations in Melbourne, Adelaide, Darwin, Perth and Albury, Wodonga, Bendigo, Geelong, Shepparton, Mildura,

(02:02:34):
Warragul and Warrnambool all of our local stations around regional Victoria.
But it's especially important that we and especially warm welcome
and a warm, uh, thanks for being along for those
people out of the state just now.

UU (02:02:51):
And we have gone astray, O tidings of comfort and
joy and joy. O tidings of comfort and joy. Give
him a round of applause. That's fabulous. And we are back.

S7 (02:03:09):
Welcome back everybody. The home stretch you're watching Vision Australia's
Carols by Candlelight, brought to you by the wonderful people
at Amy. Okay, so for those playing at home with
your carols bingo card, we know you've been waiting for this.
You can hear it in the bowl. The Queen of carols,
Marina Prior, is coming up next. Now, you know, there's
always a lot of buzz each year about exactly what

(02:03:32):
color Marina is going to walk out in. Will it
be the royal blue, the misty rose, the dark heather,
avocado fusion, or even paprika twist? Well, thank you for
making me say that. She is always stunning. Next year,
performing in Victoria Opera. Seriously glamorous production of Follies, followed
then by the Mtc's Tony Award winning musical Kimberly Akimbo

(02:03:54):
alongside Casey Donovan. And it's going to back it all
up with the international Arena tour or the Marina tour
of Les Miserables playing Madame Xanadu. But here she is.
You've been waiting for it. Here is angels we have
heard on high. With the impeccable Marina prior.

UU (02:04:32):
Angels we have heard on high. Sweetly singing o'er the plain.
And the mountains in reply. Echoing their joyous strain. Lowly

(02:05:03):
are In excelsis Deo. O Lorea in excelsis Deo. Shepherds.

(02:05:31):
Why this jubilee? Why your joyous strains prolong. What the
gladsome tidings be which inspire your heav'nly song. Lowly are

(02:05:54):
images this day of Gloria de Jesus de.

S4 (02:06:12):
Sousa is not here to describe the dress, but to
me it is a full skirted royal red dress with
a slash at the front, gold showing underneath, strapless and
severely beaded on the front.

UU (02:06:27):
Angels sing come adore on bended knee. Christ the Lord,
our newborn king. Those are Felix's Estadio da Luz Maria

(02:06:55):
Félix Jones's One. One more because. Lift your candles high. Oh!

(02:07:18):
We are living in his kingdom. Oh!

S4 (02:07:34):
Wonderful. Applause for Marina and much.

UU (02:07:37):
Waving of candles and shouting. And it's fabulous! Fabuloso! All right.

S7 (02:07:44):
Actor. Singer. Host. Author. Currently touring, performing the songs of
Bon Jovi and well, straight from this previous segment before
welcome with Please Come Home for Christmas, the fabulous Mr. Rob.

UU (02:08:01):
Bells will be ringing. The glad, glad news. Oh, what
a Christmas to get the blues. My baby's gone I
have no friends to wish me. Greetings once again. Christ

(02:08:33):
will be singing Silent night. Oh, it's Christmas. Carols by candlelight.
Please come home for Christmas. Home. Please come home for

(02:08:57):
If not for Christmas. Bad reason night. Friends and relations.
Send salutations. Just as sure as the stars shine above. Oh,

(02:09:20):
yes they do. This is Christmas. Christmas, my dear.

S38 (02:09:29):
The time of year.

UU (02:09:32):
To be with the one that you love. So won't
you tell me you never more. This Christmas and New year.
New year. You at home will be no more Sorrow.

(02:09:56):
No grief or pain. Cause I'll be happy that it's
Christmas once again. Yeah. Yeah, it's Christmas once again. Hey,

(02:10:31):
merry Christmas everybody. Thank you very much. Oh my.

S6 (02:10:40):
Goodness. Rob Mills everybody. Oh my God. Sorry, Bob. Bobby Fox,
everyone looking resplendent in a white jacket. Bobby. What we're
about to do. The Kings of Christmas thing theme with Bobby.

S4 (02:10:54):
Fox puts a wrapped present on the.

S6 (02:10:56):
Ground red and green jackets every single year. But this
is a very special year. Oh, that's right, it is.
This is the year everybody that Bobby Fox became an
Australian citizen.

S4 (02:11:09):
Much applause.

S6 (02:11:10):
That's right. So I can finally say I am you are.
We are handsome. And this year marks our fifth year
performing together as Robin Bob on Carols by Candlelight. That's
so exciting. So open the box. Okay. Christmas early. Oh

(02:11:32):
my goodness, Bob, is this for me?

S4 (02:11:35):
And then the.

S6 (02:11:35):
Box is it's for everyone.

S4 (02:11:37):
An identical jacket. White jacket. Oh. Rob takes off his
red jacket.

S6 (02:11:43):
Looks like someone puts on the white jacket as well. Oh, we.

S4 (02:11:47):
May have the two photos. Dark pants and Hey, Ross.

S6 (02:11:51):
We three kings of Christmas.

S4 (02:11:54):
Including Jon.

S6 (02:11:55):
Chill in the air. So crisp and so fresh that
frosty himself would be proud.

S18 (02:12:01):
There's a cheer everywhere as the time is drawing close.
For loved ones and friends to gather round.

UU (02:12:08):
There's a feeling of joy. Every girl, every boy. Knowing
Santa soon will be here. It's the time. What a time.
The most magical time of year. The lights. How they
grow on.

S18 (02:12:25):
Trees as it snows. The boys are being joined by
four little.

S4 (02:12:29):
Dancers in swirling pink.

S6 (02:12:31):
Houses.

UU (02:12:33):
Sparkling eyes on every child that you meet. It's the time.
We all know, no matter how young or old, we're
magically filled up with cheer. It's the time. What a time.
That most magical time of year. There'll be cookies and cakes.

S6 (02:12:53):
And paper snowflakes.

S18 (02:12:55):
And songs to be sung. Every day there'll be ribbons
and bows and a shiny red nose.

UU (02:13:02):
Leading that man on his sleigh. By the warmth of
the fire.

S18 (02:13:07):
We'll sit and admire the stockings all filled up. With
our decorations of gold, glitter, silver and gold. Bring back
memories from the past.

UU (02:13:20):
It's the time we all know. That love will always go.
To the ones that we hold so dear. It's the time.
What a time. And it's finally here. The most magical
time of year.

S4 (02:13:44):
Dance routine from.

UU (02:13:45):
The boys and the goes. There'll be cookies and.

S18 (02:13:53):
Cakes and paper snowflakes and songs to.

UU (02:13:56):
Be sung. Every day there'll be ribbons and bows. And
a shiny red nose. Leading that man on his sleigh.
By the warmth of the fire. We'll sit and admire
the stockings all filled up at last.

S18 (02:14:13):
Generations of old glitter, silver and gold. Hey, bring back
memories from the past.

UU (02:14:20):
It's the time we all know. That our love will
always flow. To the ones that we hold so dear.
It's the time. What a time. And it's finally here.
The most magical time. The most magical time. The most

(02:14:42):
magical time of Over. There they show everybody.

S7 (02:14:57):
The kings of Christmas themselves. Rob and Bob. Thanks, guys.

S6 (02:15:00):
Great to see you.

S7 (02:15:01):
And thank you to everyone that has donated so far
tonight for Vision Australia. Know we are brighter together and
together we can make a difference to people who are
blind or have low vision. So please, if you can
at home while you're there or even here in the bowl,
give online and give to carols.com. Or you can just

(02:15:23):
call one 842 2077. All right. Now you might have
seen our next singer. She's going to be touring next
year with the fabulous Paul Kelly. And she's actually somebody
that I've been singing with in some shows around the
country the last year, and it's been one of my
favorite experiences. So Experiences. So I've asked the fabulous Jess

(02:15:45):
Hitchcock everybody to be here tonight.

S4 (02:15:49):
Let's all just sit on this tour of centre stage, round.

S7 (02:15:51):
Out the year by singing.

S9 (02:15:52):
Together. We definitely do.

S7 (02:15:53):
Before I lose you to Paul Kelly. Is that okay?
Of course. All right, let's go. John.

S23 (02:16:02):
Have yourself a merry little Christmas.

S39 (02:16:08):
Let your heart be light.

UU (02:16:14):
From now on, our troubles will be.

S39 (02:16:19):
Out of sight.

S36 (02:16:29):
Have yourself a merry little Christmas.

UU (02:16:36):
Make the Yuletide gay. Next year, all our troubles will
be miles away. Here we are. As in olden days.

(02:17:00):
Happy golden days of yore. Faithful friends who are dear
to us. Gather near to us once more. Someday soon

(02:17:23):
we all will be together. If the fates allow. Until then,
we'll have to muddle through Somehow and have yourself a

(02:17:49):
merry little Christmas time. Give it up for this beautiful orchestra, everybody.

(02:18:19):
Here we are. As in olden days. Happy golden days
of yore. Faithful friends who are dear to us. gather
near to us once more. Someday soon we all will

(02:18:50):
be together. If the fates allow. Hang a shining star
upon the highest bough. And have yourself a merry little Christmas.

(02:19:20):
Have yourself a merry little Christmas. Have yourself a merry
little Christmas night.

S4 (02:20:02):
An embrace between.

UU (02:20:03):
The two singers. Hi, I'm Emma, Emma. And this is
Elva Melbourne.

S20 (02:20:10):
And we really want to spread some Christmas cheer this season.
And we'd like to thank everyone for their contribution to
Vision Australia, which really impacts the lives of so many.
Thank you so much and Merry Christmas.

S11 (02:20:25):
Hey guys merry Christmas. It's Bonnie Addison here. Your support
for Vision Australia could mean the absolute world to somebody.
Merry Christmas and a very happy New Year.

S40 (02:20:36):
Hey, everyone. My name's Bo. I'm Jacob. I'm Georgia. And
on behalf of everyone at the cast of Dear Evan Hansen,
we want to wish you a very Merry Christmas.

S6 (02:20:45):
Yeah, that was exhausting.

S7 (02:20:48):
Amazing. Wow. We were amazing out there.

S6 (02:20:50):
I'm Bobby fox. I'm Rob Mills, and we are the
kings of Christmas. We want to wish you a merry
Christmas because it is the most.

S18 (02:20:56):
Magical time.

S6 (02:20:57):
Of year. You know what? It's time to celebrate. Merry Christmas, everyone.
That's fantastic. You were great. You were great. You guys,
let's go celebrate. Bye. See you guys.

S19 (02:21:10):
Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music, Pandora what
do they have in common? Vision Australia radio podcasts all
your favourite Vision Australia radio programs including Hear This, Talking Tech,
Talking Vision, Emerging Writers, Focal Point, Happy Pants and more.
Just search for Vision Australia Radio plus the program you're

(02:21:32):
programme you're looking for and enjoy are also available at
Radio Vision Australia radio podcasts available now wherever you get
your podcasts.

S1 (02:21:43):
On the Vision Australia Radio network via Radio Digital, online
at via radio and on stations around Australia through the
Reading Radio Network and the Community Radio Network. You're listening
to the audio description presentation of Vision Australia's Carols by Candlelight.

S2 (02:22:05):
And bringing that to you is John Jenkins and John Westland,
Suzie Hill also. And we're coming to you via the
print radio in Tasmania, also to radio two in Sydney
and of course, right around Australia on the Community Radio Network.
We'd love you to donate if you possibly could, because

(02:22:25):
it's very important for Vision Australia to come to Two
donations one 842 2077.

S4 (02:22:37):
Are. Casey Donovan in a long, dark green full dress
skirt dress, full skirted dress.

UU (02:22:45):
Glistening a beautiful sight. We're happy tonight. Walking in a
winter wonderland. Gone away is the bluebird here to stay?
Is the new bird. To sing a love song. As
we stroll along. Walking in a winter wonderland in the meadow.

(02:23:07):
We can build a snowman. And pretend that he is
Parson Brown. He'll say are you ready? We'll say no man,
but you can do the job when you're in town.
Later on we'll conspire as we dream by the fire
to face unafraid. The plans we Me walking in a

(02:23:30):
winter wonderland. Hey hey, hey, let me see those candles
in the air. In the meadow. We can build a snowman.
And pretend that he is Parson Brown. He'll say, are

(02:23:52):
you ready? We'll say no, man, but you can do
the job when you're in town. Later on we'll conspire
as we dream by the fire. To face unafraid. The
plans that we made. Walking in a winter wonderland. Yeah,

(02:24:13):
we're walking in a winter. Yeah, we're walking, we're walking
in a winter wonderland. Merry Christmas and a safe and
happy New Year. Good evening. You are the best. Casey,

(02:24:39):
what a version. And if you want to see more of.

S7 (02:24:41):
Casey sister actors at the Regent Theatre in Melbourne until
January 26th or after that, she, of course, goes to Brisbane,
Adelaide and Perth. Now Mitch Tambo is back. Everybody say
hi Mitch. Welcome back. Merry Christmas. Mitch, you are very
firmly now part of the carols family. I love what
you did with that song at the beginning with Lily.
It was seeing you guys do amazing Grace tonight. Tell

(02:25:04):
us about the importance of that song for you, too.
It's just an amazing night. I think this time.

S41 (02:25:08):
Of the year, so many people are struggling to put
that last bit of food on the dinner table, and
it's that beautiful gift of grace we all have. So
to do that with my beautiful wife and to do
it together for the first time, it's a really special
moment for.

S7 (02:25:21):
Us and for girls. You've had a you had a what,
a Olympics? You had a Christmas Olympics this week.

S41 (02:25:27):
I'm still recovering.

S7 (02:25:27):
What is the Christmas Olympics for those at home that
don't know what Christmas Olympics are?

S41 (02:25:31):
Look, if you don't know about the Christmas Olympics, are
you doing Christmas? Because I'm telling you now, it's all
about apple bobbing. A 50 minute session of musical chairs,
fabulous gingerbread beach hut making. Oh, wow. I know, and sunburn.
You can't forget the sun.

S7 (02:25:45):
Yeah.

S41 (02:25:45):
Slip slip slip, slop and slap, please.

S7 (02:25:48):
Um. And what is Christmas going to be like for
you tomorrow?

S41 (02:25:50):
Look, tomorrow will be a beautiful day. All the families around,
they're actually there tonight, so I'll be cruising back home
for a beautiful midnight celebration. Oh, you do it at midnight.
We're doing a beautiful Christmas Eve midnight celebration, and we'll
flow into a beautiful feast tomorrow in just family time.

S7 (02:26:04):
Well, it was just divine to see you guys perform tonight.
Have a merry Christmas, my friend. It's great to see
you again. Give it up for Mitch Tambo, everybody. Thank you.
Merry Christmas. And speaking of family, you're going to love
our next act to Ben Abraham. You know, his parents
performed on this very stage in 1981, Mitch. And for
20 years, he was John Foreman's page turner. Well, he's

(02:26:26):
come a long way since the heady days of turning pages,
hasn't he? John? Absolutely. You couldn't even replace him. That's
how good he was.

S10 (02:26:33):
Irreplaceable.

S7 (02:26:34):
Irreplaceable. There's an empty chair whenever he wants. But he's
collaborated with the likes of Kesha, Ben Platt, Demi Lovato,
and tonight he is joined by his sister Mikaela Jade
and his parents, Bram and Diane. Singing one of his
own compositions, Don't Wish Me a merry Christmas till I'm home.
Here are the Abraham family.

S4 (02:27:07):
Band at the piano with three members of his family
on chairs.

UU (02:27:11):
And Christ begins to fall around the window. The neighbors
have put Holly on the door. And the colored lights
are shining eyes. The happy sound of carols fills the air.

(02:27:37):
Christmas cards are filling up the mailbox. So glad we
made it through another year. Oh, and every street I
walk on. People greet me with a smile. They seem
so happy. The season's finally here. And I can feel

(02:28:03):
the wind coming. With the cold December wind. I can
feel the spirits rising when it snows. I can feel
the whole world smiling in the songs that you would sing.

(02:28:23):
But it doesn't feel like Christmas till I'm home. Mhm. Well,
I wish there weren't so many miles between us. But

(02:28:47):
I'll be by your side before you know. Now I'm
all packed up and on my way. And I can't
wait to see your face when you open your door.
I can feel the winter coming. The cold December wind.

(02:29:12):
I can feel the spirits rising when it You. Can
feel the whole world smiling in the songs the children sing.
But it doesn't feel like Christmas. Till I move on.

(02:29:37):
Ooh ooh. Ooh ooh ooh. Ooh ooh ooh ooh ooh.
I can feel the winter coming. You could hear the

(02:30:01):
sound of the wind. I can feel the spirits. Rising
stars feel the whole world. Smiling. In the songs that
children But it doesn't feel like Christmas. So don't wish

(02:30:22):
me Merry Christmas. No, it doesn't feel like Christmas. Till
I'm home. Til I'm home. Til you're home.

S7 (02:30:50):
Oh, isn't that just beautiful? Something about families singing together
that just gets me the harmonies. You can't match it.
Singing with your relatives. Hopefully you are doing the same
at home as well. And harmonizing tonight with your rellies.
It's a great thing to do. It's a wonderful reminder
of brighter together, which of course is our theme tonight.
Vision Australia steps in and changes lives, lighting up the

(02:31:13):
path for children who are blind or have low vision.
So if you, like me, have been moved by anything tonight,
then hop on board, go to giftcards.com or call one
842 2077. And if you need any more inspiration about how,
how about Opera star and Vision Australia ambassador Michael Versini

(02:31:34):
and his fiancée Violetta. Michael has been living with a
rare eye condition which has left him legally blind, but
already he has achieved beyond anything that most people could
ever even dream of. Having performed in Italy for the
Pavarotti family as well as the Pope, with Violetta, a
formidable R&B singer by his side. They have gained international recognition.

(02:31:59):
So what an honour. And with the classic Little Drummer Boy,
here is Michael and Violetta.

S18 (02:32:24):
Come. They told.

UU (02:32:26):
Me. PA pa pa pa pa pa pa! A new
born king.

S18 (02:32:34):
To see her. PA pa.

S4 (02:32:36):
Pa! White jacket, black pants.

S18 (02:32:41):
Finest gifts we.

UU (02:32:42):
Bring. PA! PA pa pa to lay before the king.
PA rum pa pum. PA rum pa pum pum. Rum
pa pum pum. So to honor him forever. PA. When

(02:33:07):
we Um. Little baby, pa rum pum pum pum. I
am a party to forever come. Um. Oh. I have

(02:33:33):
no gift to bring upon school that's fit to give
our king. Forever. Pum pum, rum pum pum pum. Rum
pum pum pum. Shall I play for you? Come up almighty.

(02:34:01):
Drum on my I mind your hair? Oh. Berry nodded. Papa, Papa.

(02:34:35):
Said lamb, kept time. Papa, Papa, Papa, I play my
drum for him. PA rum pa pum pa. I play
my best for him. PA rum pum pum pum rum

(02:34:55):
pum pum pum pum pum. Oh. Then he smiled at
me Up up up up. On my drive 25. On

(02:35:26):
my drive. Thank you so much. Merry Christmas. Merry Christmas
and a happy new year.

S7 (02:35:46):
Merry Christmas to both of you. That was spectacular. Oh,
isn't that great? Are we all having a good time tonight?
You all look fantastic. Just raise up your candles and
show me one more time. Give me a bit of
a wave. Fabulous stuff.

S4 (02:36:00):
Candles waving madly from the audience.

S7 (02:36:02):
I spoke to my family and harmonizing before. This is
a special family moment for me. Australia has loved Jesus
Christ Superstar since it first opened here way back in 1972. Well,
superstar is back. Currently rocking hard at the Capitol Theatre
in Sydney until the end of January before it heads
to Perth to Melbourne and Brisbane. It's getting rave reviews

(02:36:26):
these performers. This cast is amazing, so please welcome Michael
Paynter who plays Jesus, Javon King who plays Judas, and
my sister Mahalia Barnes, who plays Mary with Hallelujah.

UU (02:36:47):
Woo! In the winter's chill. Let the candle light the
night up. From the window sill. As I draw you
near and you whisper all the sweet sounds only we

(02:37:14):
can hear. On the coldest evening in this December.

S5 (02:37:25):
I hold you.

UU (02:37:26):
In the heat of the glowing embers.

S5 (02:37:32):
Let the world stand still.

UU (02:37:34):
Church bells ring. Silent night as the angels sing. Hallelujah. Hallelujah.
Let the magic wand. The moonlit and the choirs join
in singing everywhere. Hallelujah. Ooh ah ooh. Let there be

(02:38:08):
peace on earth. Let the lonely join together. Let them
know the word. Oh, let the children know. There's a
brighter day ahead. Let's hold on to hope. On the

(02:38:35):
coldest morning in this December. Let us pray. The spirit
of love will linger. Let the world stand still. The
church bells ring. Silent night as the angels sing. Ooh, yeah! Hallelujah!

(02:39:04):
Let the magic wand the moonlight. Hear the cry shining.
Singing everywhere. Hallelujah, Hallelujah. Glory, glory, glory. I'm so glad
to have you with me. This Christmas moment last year.

(02:39:34):
Let the world stand still. The church bells ring. Silent night.
As the angels sing. Hallelujah, Hallelujah. Let the magic won.
The moon lit in Christ. Join in singing everywhere. Hallelujah, Hallelujah,

(02:40:00):
Hallelujah Hallelujah Hallelujah Hallelujah Hallelujah Hallelujah Hallelujah Hallelujah Hallelujah, Hallelujah.

(02:40:32):
Merry Christmas. Thank you.

S21 (02:40:39):
Hello, I'm Dennis Walter. We're here, of course, celebrating carols
by candlelight, celebrating Christmas, but also the great work of
Vision Australia. If you can donate something.

S28 (02:40:48):
Please do. To everyone who's watching this, I wish you
all a very Merry Christmas. And please support Vision Australia.
It helps kids like me a lot.

S20 (02:41:01):
Hello everyone, its Dami Im here. Hope you're having a
great Christmas and please remember to give generously to Vision
Australia if you can.

S9 (02:41:08):
Merry Christmas! Christmas is a time.

S11 (02:41:11):
Of giving and I encourage you, if you can, to
give to this wonderful cause, which is Vision Australia.

S9 (02:41:16):
And bless someone.

S11 (02:41:17):
This Christmas.

S15 (02:41:19):
Hi everyone. Hi there.

S6 (02:41:20):
How are you going? Tonight we are raising money for
the incredible work that Vision Australia do. So if you
can afford to give anything big or small, please consider
a donation.

S15 (02:41:27):
Merry Christmas.

S41 (02:41:29):
Yum yum. Mitch Tambo, hear the voice of Lily and
we want to wish you the best.

S11 (02:41:34):
Blessed. Merry Christmas.

S41 (02:41:36):
Ever. Take care. Have a blessed holiday season. Okay.

S6 (02:41:45):
From the staff and.

S42 (02:41:45):
Volunteers at the Vision Australia Radio Network, we'd like to
wish you the very best for the festive season and
a happy and happy and prosperous 2025. During this holiday period,
some of your favorite programs are taking a well-earned break.
But rest assured that our regular scheduled programs will return
on Monday, the 6th of January. In the meantime, please

(02:42:06):
enjoy our special holiday features we've put together for you
across the Vision Australia Radio Network. For more details, visit
VA radio.

S1 (02:42:20):
On the Vision Australia Radio network. VA radio digital online
at VA radio and on stations around Australia through the
Reading Radio Network and the Community Radio Network. You're listening
to the audio description presentation of Vision Australia's Carols by Candlelight.

S2 (02:42:41):
And it's a big thanks to all of those stations
around Australia that are helping us to bring the joy
of Carols by Candlelight to everyone around the network in Australia.
And if you can, if you haven't donated yet, if
you can, we'd love to have your donations to keep
the work of Vision Australia going. Call one 842 2077.

(02:43:06):
One 842 2077 or you can go to give to candles.com.
That's give to candles. And remember every donation goes to
helping the work of Vision Australia. Welcome back. As we look.

S7 (02:43:24):
At a beautiful shot over the Sidney Myer Music Bowl here.
Vision Australia's Carols by Candlelight brought to you by Amy
everybody Miranda Price standing next to me. Please give a
round of applause.

UU (02:43:36):
For the Queen of Musical Theatre, the Queen of the carols.
It's so lovely.

S9 (02:43:40):
How wonderful is this night?

S11 (02:43:43):
And it's almost.

S9 (02:43:44):
Christmas. It's almost Christmas. I'm so excited. We're hours.

S7 (02:43:46):
Away. And I tell you what. Christmas came early because.
Look at this frog. Can we just get one more, please, Marina,
if you wouldn't mind. Yes. Okay. Everybody, please. We've got a. Ooh. Wow.

S4 (02:44:00):
Very magnificent little.

S11 (02:44:01):
Bit of Linda Britton.

S9 (02:44:02):
But I have to say that the lovely thing for
me about Carol's is that I just get to relax
and wear my around the house clothes.

S7 (02:44:08):
Isn't that nice for you? It's so nice for me
to come so casually dressed. I know it's like mufti
day for you. It really.

S9 (02:44:14):
Is. No. It's massive, it's massive.

S7 (02:44:15):
And the train is so long.

S9 (02:44:17):
I know, I think it's still finishing my number that
I did 15 minutes ago.

S7 (02:44:21):
That's how long it is. Now, we always like to
end everything here on a high with your mate David Hobson,
who's going to be out here very soon?

S9 (02:44:28):
Absolutely. And it does not feel like Christmas until David
Hobson has come on and sung. So I'm just very
excited for that.

S7 (02:44:37):
Everyone, we're still holding him back. And, you know, we're
feeding him and just giving him some water to make
sure that happens because he's the cream on top of
the Christmas cake. But first we have to talk about
Tarryn Stokes because she's next level. Have you heard of her?

S9 (02:44:49):
Yes, I heard her in rehearsal and. Oh, my goodness,
this this young woman is going to be an extraordinary star. Well,
she is already on the ascent.

S7 (02:44:58):
Yeah. So after becoming an in-demand backing vocalist for some
of the biggest names in Australian music, including Jess Mauboy,
Delta Goodrem, our next performers, big break came, of course,
when she auditioned for The Voice in 2023. She stunned
the audiences, she stunned judges alike and then captured our
hearts by taking out the grand final.

S9 (02:45:17):
She is absolutely extraordinary, and she's going to be performing
with the Melbourne Gospel Choir, of which she used to
be a member. Isn't it nice? Yes.

S7 (02:45:24):
It's really such a full circle moment.

S9 (02:45:26):
It really is. So here is Tarryn Stokes with O
Holy Night.

UU (02:45:35):
Merry Christmas, everybody. O holy Night. The stars are brightly shining.

S23 (02:45:52):
It is the.

UU (02:45:53):
Night of our dear Savior's birth.

S23 (02:46:02):
Long lay the.

UU (02:46:05):
World in sin and error pining. Till he appeared. And
the soul felt its worth a thrill of hope. The

(02:46:28):
weary world rejoices. For yonder breaks a new and glorious
morn I'll love your knees. Oh, hear the angel's biceps. Oh,

(02:47:00):
night divine O night when Christ was born. O night divine.

(02:47:28):
O night, O night divine. He taught us to love
one On.

S4 (02:47:41):
Another inherently has been joined by two lines of six
singers from the.

UU (02:47:47):
Melbourne Gospel Choir for this piece. Whose change shall he
break for the role of mother? And in his name

(02:48:08):
all oppression shall cease. Sweet taste of joy in grateful chorus.
Raise we let all within us praise his holy name

(02:48:39):
Christ is the Lord. And ever the praise we know. Yeah. No. Yeah.

(02:49:04):
O night, O night. Divine. Glory! Oh! Yeah, yeah. O night,

(02:49:37):
All Night 85. Thank you so much. Karen, that was

(02:50:03):
so good.

S7 (02:50:05):
I think we started a new tradition there. Okay, now
it's the last mighty tick in the box. Annual Carols
by Candlelight bingo card, everybody. If you're playing at home,
this is how you finish. Christmas Eve at carols Marina,
before we do this, you know David Hobson. Really? The
whole year he peaks for this night. This is the
biggest night for him vocally, career wise. He just goes

(02:50:26):
for it. We're all behind him. You work with him
for the rest of the 360 days. As he's stumbling around,
trying to find his way to this night. How is
that for you?

S9 (02:50:34):
Oh, look, I just carry him through touring together? Yeah,
I really do. But seriously, you know, it is not
Christmas until David Hobson comes on and really crowns this
evening and he really, really does.

S7 (02:50:49):
All right then, all jokes aside, please do the honors
because it's my favorite part of the night.

S9 (02:50:53):
So it gives me the greatest pleasure because he is
a dear friend for many, many years and a great,
great icon in the Australian firmament of entertainment. And we
adore him. So please, would you welcome David Hobson with.

UU (02:51:11):
The Holy City? Thank you.

S5 (02:51:26):
Last night I lay a sleeping. There came a dream
so fair I stood in old Jerusalem.

UU (02:51:35):
Beside the temple there I heard the children singing.

S5 (02:51:41):
And ever as they sang methought the voice of angels.

UU (02:51:48):
From heaven in answering me thought the voice of angels
from heaven in answer right, Jerusalem, Jerusalem, lift up your

(02:52:13):
gates and sing. Hosanna in the highest. Hosanna to our King!

(02:52:33):
And then Methought.

S5 (02:52:35):
My dream was changed.

UU (02:52:36):
The streets no longer rang. Hushed were the glad hosannas.

S5 (02:52:42):
The little children sang. The sun grew dark with mystery.
The morn was cold and chill. As the shadow.

UU (02:52:52):
Of a cross arose upon a lonely hill. As the
shadow of a cross arose upon a lonely hill. Jerusalem, Jerusalem. Ah, ah.

(02:53:20):
The angels sing. Hosanna in the Yes. Pass that on
to your team.

S5 (02:53:51):
And once again, the scene was changed. New Earth, that
seemed to be. I saw.

UU (02:53:58):
The holy city beside the Tideless see.

S5 (02:54:03):
The light of God was on its streets. The gates
were open wide.

UU (02:54:09):
And all who would. Might enter. And no one was denied.
No need of moon or stars by night Light our
sun to shine by day.

S5 (02:54:35):
It was the New Jerusalem.

UU (02:54:41):
That would not pass away. It was the New Jerusalem
that would not pass away. Making use of steroids for love.

(02:55:10):
Sing for the night. His are forced on us in
the highest. Hosanna Car owners.

S4 (02:55:30):
Are now seeing lots of overhead shots with the ball.

UU (02:55:33):
With candles missing and David Hobson spotlit in the sage.
Is this.

S4 (02:55:40):
Carols by candlelight is drawing, but.

UU (02:55:41):
It ends him forever more. Thank you so much. Happy Christmas.

S5 (02:56:02):
Thank you John.

UU (02:56:03):
There he goes. David Hobson, how good is that? Everybody
give him a round of applause. David, come back here.
Come back here and take a bow, buddy. Take a
bow every year.

S5 (02:56:14):
I appreciate that, thank you.

S6 (02:56:15):
You're the best. Lovely.

S5 (02:56:16):
Lovely singing choir.

S6 (02:56:17):
Lovely playing.

S5 (02:56:19):
And Billy in the orchestra of Melbourne Youth Orchestra.

S7 (02:56:24):
He's hosting on the way out. You got to catch
this man live. He's amazing. He'll be performing at the
Arts Centre Melbourne early next year. And later playing the
lead role in Victoria's Opera's wonderfully twisted production of Boojum.
All right. Now, thanks to hobo and our Carols by
Candlelight choir. Bingo, we are done. I hope you won.
And thank you, one and all. And to all my

(02:56:45):
guests who helped me out here tonight. We've had an
absolute ball. A big thank you to all of our
magnificent artists for their generous time and extraordinary performances. How
good was tonight, everybody? It was really.

UU (02:56:57):
This is really up there, I think.

S7 (02:57:01):
I'd also like to thank our musical director, John Foreman.
Thank you John. Oh. Thank you.

S10 (02:57:07):
And what about a hand for the man that holds
it all together? The one and only.

UU (02:57:11):
David Campbell, everybody. We love you. Also, the Carols.

S7 (02:57:17):
By Candlelight orchestra. Give them a round of applause. Thank
you to the Melbourne Youth Orchestra. A huge shout out
to our favorite uncle, Doug Hayward and the Carols by
Candlelight choir. And in fact, all of the choirs, and
especially Judd Field and the Melbourne Gospel Choir. It is
going to be Judd's last year, everybody, so we wish

(02:57:37):
him all the best. The Australian Girls Choir, the National
Boys Choir, and everyone here at nine for putting on
such a huge, emotion filled show. A special shout out
to our legendary director, Gary Newnham. Everybody, please give him
a round of applause. Gary will miss you, buddy. And
a big thanks to Vision Australia who continue to put

(02:57:59):
on such an incredible event. Amy for being such a
strong and supportive presenting partner. And to all of you
who have made the journey to the ball here tonight,
you look amazing. And to everybody at home who have
donated to Vision Australia, you can still do so. Give
online at give to. Com or phone one 842 2077.

(02:58:20):
The job is job is not done. Everybody, let's just
keep lighting up people's lives. So whether you've been wrapping
presents at home on the couch, you've been singing. You've
been keeping the noisy, noisy teenagers away from tomorrow's pavlova.
We really do hope you've enjoyed this special presentation. Enjoy
your day tomorrow, Australia. Merry Christmas, merry Christmas to our

(02:58:42):
mates Sara. We miss you. Get better soon. We love you, mate.
Keep safe. Everybody here. Remember, Boxing Day is going to
be a hot one here, so please stay safe. Water
the animals. Keep up to date with fire warnings. Leaving
early is the safest option. We want to do this
all again next year. Thank you all so much for tonight.
For now, we want to wish you all a very

(02:59:05):
Merry Christmas.

UU (02:59:07):
Good night everybody. Wow. We wish you a merry Christmas.
We wish you a merry Christmas. We wish you a
merry Christmas. And a happy New Year. Good tidings we
bring to you and your kin. We wish you a
merry Christmas and a happy New Year. We wish you

(02:59:31):
a merry Christmas. We wish you a merry Christmas. We
wish you a merry Christmas.

S2 (02:59:37):
Lighting designer and.

S18 (02:59:38):
Director is Daniel Sobecki.

S2 (02:59:40):
Senior audio director Darren Wheeler. What a job he has
to do. Staging and design supervisor John Sabatos, director's assistant
Kelly Churchill, the producer and the writer, Rob Caldwell. And
what a great job they put together.

UU (02:59:54):
That's it. From the Carols by Candlelight, the audio description.

S2 (03:00:00):
We'll give you a little burst of the music, and then.

UU (03:00:03):
John Jenkins and I will come back with just a
few more comments after the break. O tidings of comfort
and love, good King Wenceslaus Must look down upon the
feast of Stephen. When the snow lay round about. King

(03:00:24):
and priest. And even when they show the moon at night.
Though the cross was cruel. When upon.

S43 (03:00:34):
The.

S2 (03:00:35):
Stage is now lit up by all of the performers
who have all come back out onto the stage to
to join in this final sing of we Wish You
a merry Christmas. There go the streamers raining down from
the roof of the Myer Music Bowl.

UU (03:00:54):
On the roof. Watch out, you better not cry. You
better not pout I'm telling you why. Santa, fireworks are
coming to town.

S4 (03:01:05):
I've been waiting for the fireworks. Rudolph the Red-Nosed reindeer.
This is the big Christmas medley at the end. With
every Christmas song I've ever heard.

UU (03:01:16):
You didn't say it. Close. All of them will appear
at the shouted out with glee. Hey, we're not the
Red nose reindeer! You could have at least the reign
of King of Spain and Sweden.

S4 (03:01:31):
And another wide shot of the ball.

UU (03:01:35):
It's lovely weather for a sleigh ride together with you.
I was going to end with that. You heard the
lovely weather. Stay right here with me. We wish you

(03:01:56):
a merry Christmas. We wish you a merry Christmas. We
wish you a merry Christmas and a happy New Year.

S4 (03:02:05):
John and I will join in the singing.

UU (03:02:06):
Except not now, Partridge. Not ready to say Happy To
him on his death in 1974, with Melvin gone and
become God for the wonderful city of Melbourne.

S15 (03:02:30):
These sorts of.

UU (03:02:31):
Shots, landscape shots of the city, quite spectacular, quite spectacular.

S4 (03:02:37):
Hold it up in the city. In the world. Yeah.
Boulder is lit up.

S2 (03:02:41):
There's fireworks being shot around from the bowl.

S13 (03:02:43):
When news is happening, turn to today.

S4 (03:02:45):
Here we go.

S2 (03:02:46):
That wraps up the Carols by Candlelight from Vision Australia Radio.
Off to a shaky start with Sarah Abo with appendicitis. Yes, yes.
It's a quick way to bring you down. And what
a fabulous job by David Campbell to actually carry the
show all the way through. And all the performers.

S4 (03:03:06):
Stepped up to help.

S2 (03:03:06):
Him. Yeah, well, and, you know, an excellent night. And
thanks very much to all of our partner broadcasters right
around Australia. Particularly the Community Radio Network. Print. Radio Tasmania.
Radio two Rph. In New South Wales. We've been out
on Vision Australia digital radio, also online at. Radio. And

(03:03:30):
then across the Vision Australia radio network where you can
hear us all away. On Melbourne, Adelaide, Darwin, Perth in
regional Victoria and lower New South Wales. Albury-Wodonga. Bendigo. Geelong. Shepparton. Mildura.
Warragul and Warrnambool. So with that, I think, John, we

(03:03:52):
can say farewell again.

S4 (03:03:54):
Good night to everyone.

S2 (03:03:55):
Good night to everyone. What everybody must do is have
and should do is have a very Merry Christmas, but
a very safe Christmas.

S4 (03:04:03):
Safe Christmas.

S2 (03:04:03):
Because we want you all to come back and listen
to this show again next year. Thank you. And good.

S4 (03:04:09):
Night. Good night.