Jingle in July

It's time to get into the festive spirit and celebrate Christmas in July with a holly jolly river cruise.

July 24, 2024

With only 22 weeks to go until Christmas, some of our participants couldn’t resist celebrating the festivities early with a Christmas in July cruise! The group headed down to Penrith in Western Sydney, to board the Nepean Belle Paddle-wheeler for their Yulefest lunch cruise.

“I had a really wonderful time. It was really good and there were lovely views on the water,” said Human Rights Advisor, Erica Halverson.

While floating down the Nepean River, the group were able to soak in an unparalleled view of the rock formations, a natural archaeological wonder at the base of the Blue Mountains National Park.

The boat was decked out in Christmas finery, complete with a Christmas tree, wreaths, ribbons and bells, and of course with some cheeky mistletoe. The group enjoyed listening to the merry tunes and tucking into some Christmas lunch.

“My favourite part was having the meal. They had roast chicken, Christmas ham, potatoes, vegetables and my favourite beer. We all got to have a chat and enjoy being together,” continued Erica.

For dessert, the tables had two alternating options, a warm sticky date pudding or a classic Aussie favourite, pavlova! It wouldn’t be Christmas without one really.

While it was brisk 14 degrees on the water, the hearty food and the gentle heating kept everyone feeling toasty warm in the enclosed decks.

After the cruise, the Sydney crew headed home with full bellies and Christmas carols stuck in their head, ready to do it all again in just under 6 months.