Every year, on the Saturday immediately before Christmas, 100,000 people converge on an expanse of green grass in central Sydney for a spectacular celebration of the festive season. They begin to arrive early in the day, laden with picnic baskets and rugs, and trailing little ones eager to get a glimpse of their favourite “soap” star or singer. Undeterred by hot sun or showers of rain they stake out their patch and happily pass the hours until the spectacular televised concert begins once the sun’s set.
I was there last night, but we enjoyed the Carols under much more comfortable conditions, thanks to my friend Robyn Hobbs, the inspiration behind this event.
For 27 Christmases Robyn (seen here with some familiar faces) has run Carols in the Domain, raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for the Salvation Army, and receiving an official ‘pat on the back’ this year with the award of an Order of Australia.
Even if watching Carols in the Domain on TV is an annual ritual for you, here’s something you probably don’t know because it never goes to air.
Every year, five minutes before the telecast begins, Robyn walks out onto this stage, 
surveys this awesome sea of people as far as the eye can see, 
and reminds us all that Jesus is indeed the reason for the season.
With simple words from the heart she puts Christ into Christmas for 100,000 Sydneysiders.
Robyn, you’ve earned far more than your Order of Australia!
This event looks wonderful. How I would have enjoyed hearing Robyn's message, and savoring the music and entertainment! Thanks for sharing this with those of us who wish we could have been there.
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