SYDNEY: The Galstaun College community came together as one for the traditional "Carols at the Carnival" on Sunday December 13.

Over 600 community members enjoyed an afternoon of food, games and entertainment, culminating in a two-hour "Carols by Candlelight" program presented by students and teachers, accompanied by guest singers and performers.

College Parents' Committee representative Mrs. Vera Evanian said: "Carols at the Carnival has become a fitting finale to the school year. Students look forward to a day of fun to end a year of hard work and achievements.

"The community looks forward to getting together for one last time in the year to enjoy each other's company and commence the advent of the Christmas season."

The College Parents' Committee, ably assisted by parents and the Alumni, had organised this event, which was enjoyed in fine weather, with the children enjoying the rides, with plenty of food and drinks available to keep everyone happy.

Later in the evening, the message of the season was enacted by the students presenting the story of the Nativity. The singing of carols and hymns in English and Armenian entertained and delighted everyone present for two hours.

In her closing address, Head of College Mrs Carolyn Blanden made a public wish, asking the community to help the College setup a community orchestra based at Galstaun College. Mr and Mrs Hagop and Seta Der Tateossian responded immediately by donating 10 violins to the Galstaun College music instruments library. Donations to the library will continue to be gratefully accepted throughout the holiday period and into 2010.

College Principal Mr Kaylar Michaelian thanked everyone who had made the event an outstanding success on the day. He conveyed his best wishes to the College community for Christmas and the New Year.

Mr Michaelian added: "I ask the community to join Hamazkaine's Regional Committee, the College Board of Directors, staff, students and parents in an unrelenting effort to reach a target of 320 plus students at Galstaun College by the end of 2010."