History Snippet – “Christmas Past”

Saturday December 5th is our Annual Christmas Event, although a little smaller than we'd like due to Covid restrictions. What have past events looked like? Our first contribution is a photo Christmas card produced by our founding member Alf Lucke who was both a champion paddler and class boat builder. (See earlier snippet)

We clearly need to raise the bar in how we dress for the river!

In 1930 The Advertiser reported on December 19th:

Fairfield Canoe Club

Annual Christmas Function – The club’s annual Christmas social on Wednesday night at the clubhouse proved a great success. It was a night of surprises, and a number of presentations were made, causing much amusement. A Christmas tree was presented by Mrs.Loyer, and excitement reigned when Father Christmas paid a flying visit. With dancing to the impelling strains of the High Jinks Orchestra and novelty events, the evening passed all too quickly, and it was a happy crowd that dispersed after singing “Auld Lang Syne”. Each and every one of the hundred present voted it the best night ever held by the club.

Just four years later we have the iconic 1934 photo of the clubhouse decked-out in Christmas streamers as the flood waters lap around the pianist on the stage of the clubhouse.

We leap forward a few decades to 2003 where the Chair, Annette Kendall, notes: “ I would like to thank you all for your great support of FCC last year - and hope that you have enjoyed your time as a member. There was a good turn-out for the last social event of the year - the Xmas Party - which was superbly organised by the social committee - so a HUGE thanks goes to them. There was much fun on the day with Santa arriving in a K4 with his little helpers to deliver presents to those who had been good throughout the year (needless to say very few of the adults received a gift!!!!!!) - however all of the children, Zoli and Margaret were duly rewarded for their excellent behaviour and coaching skills.”

Then, of course, we have reports of last year’s Centenary Christmas with novelty events on the water, as well as a visit from Santa. (Ed: In 2019, Santa had a striking resemblance to Santa’s friend snapped in 2005 – didn’t you think?)

See you at this year’s event – Saturday Dec. 5th.  Book now!