Welcome to a Christmas Wonderland

By Caleb Francis

Dec 1, 2022

Ready for the festive season: City of Greater Shepparton Mayor Shane Sali cutting the ribbon with elves Sue Trevaskis and Teagan Stewart at the official opening of the Greater Shepparton Great Christmas Wonderland Photo by Megan Fisher

This Christmas wonderland is the gift that keeps giving.

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Greater Shepparton City Council has launched the Greater Shepparton Great Christmas Wonderland on the corner of Maude and High streets.

“The Christmas wonderland is a hub for people to gather,” council partnerships and marketing co-ordinator Liz Connick said.

It features a gift-wrapping station, spaces for kids to enjoy and the iconic ‘Elfie Selfie’ window where people of all ages can have their picture taken.

There is face painting and dress-ups for kids and an opportunity for people to win gifts by participating in activities.

Opening speech: Council partnerships and marketing co-ordinator Liz Connick at the official opening of the Greater Shepparton Great Christmas Wonderland. Photo by Megan Fisher

“There are two ways people can win (prizes) by shopping in Greater Shepparton this season,” Ms Connick said.

The first way is by creating a shopping list at christmas.greatthings.com.au

Alternatively, a computer is set up in the wonderland where the ‘elves’ can assist shoppers.

The website allows people to search for Christmas gift ideas from participating stores.

After adding your products to the gift list, enter your contact details and you will be automatically included in the major prize draw.

Major prize: Stephen Schneider from Stephens Jewellers with elves Teagan Stewart and Sue Trevaskis at the official opening of the Greater Shepparton Great Christmas Wonderland. Photo by Megan Fisher

The major prize is a blush Argyle pink diamond earring and pendant combination, crafted in 18-carat white gold with a halo of white diamonds, donated by Stephens Jewellers.

“They are valued at approximately $5700, and they’re a part of the blush collection by Pink Kimberley, which is designed in Sydney,” Stephens Jewellers owner Stephen Schneider said.

“It incorporates a beautiful Argyle pink diamond featured in it, and it’s set in 18-carat white gold.

“It’s absolutely stunning, and it is on display in our Fryers St store. So I encourage everyone in the community to get out and do some local shopping and have a chance to win this amazing prize.”

The shop will be open every Tuesday to Saturday from 10.30am to 4.30pm until Saturday, December 24.

Mayor Shane Sali encouraged people to visit the wonderland, especially after the past two years of COVID-19 and the recent floods.

“This is a really special time to come together and celebrate with family and friends,” Cr Sali said.