New Vine Lakes is thrilled to partner with Carols by the Lake – Croudace Bay, a community initiative spreading joy, hope, and the message of Jesus to families in our local area. We support their work through prayer, volunteering, and financial contributions. Discover more and see how you can get involved on their official website, link at the top of the page.
Carols by the Lake has continued to flourish as a cherished community event, strengthened by the enthusiastic, boots-on-the-ground support of New Vine Lakes. Over the years Carols has grown from a backyard Carols to an event that hosts approximately 4,000 community members so they can gather, celebrate, and enjoy a low-cost, family-friendly evening centred on the true meaning of Christmas. This commitment to accessibility and authenticity remains at the heart of the event’s mission.
Carols by the Lake continues to stand as a vibrant expression of faith in community, and generosity. Despite the challenges ahead, we remain committed to offering an event where every person—regardless of background—can gather by the lake, lift their voice in song and worship, and encounter the hope found in Jesus.
For the last few years Carols by the Lake has grown into a collaborative expression of unity among some of the local churches. Eastlakes Salvos, Gateway Church, and Belmont Baptist Church have joined as valued partners, contributing financially, providing volunteers, and/or helping promote the event across the region which has strengthened both the operational capacity and the spiritual impact of the evening.
Local businesses have also played a vital role. The event has benefited from ongoing sponsorships as well as new supporters, several of whom have generously increased their contributions to help cover major event costs. This community-minded generosity has enabled Carols to maintain a high-quality event without placing financial barriers on attendees.
Each year, the team distributes food vouchers to families in need, enabling them to enjoy the BBQ and drinks provided by the Valentine Lions Club. One of the long-term dreams is to expand this initiative so that vouchers can be redeemed at any food or beverage outlet at the event.
While we believe we have found a winning formula and do not anticipate major changes to the event structure, we remain mindful of emerging challenges. Shifts in the broader Australian social climate—racially or religiously motivated incidents—may lead to stricter public safety requirements for events held in council spaces. Compliance with evolving safety expectations could result in increased operational costs. Additionally, while Lake Macquarie City Council has historically contributed $2,000 toward the event—approximately 7.5% of the 2025 budget—this support is not guaranteed in future years.
Carols by the Lake has intentionally sought to “Arise and Shine” within the community. This vision has shaped the event’s spiritual focus, with more time dedicated to the gospel message, a shift away from commercialised Christmas themes, and a commitment to using traditional carols that point clearly to Jesus. Themes inspired by the Holy Spirit have guided the program, emphasising generosity, hope, and the love of Christ.
Practical expressions of this mission have become hallmarks of the event. Volunteers now wear vests boldly declaring “In Jesus Name,” creating a visible witness throughout the evening. Hosts mingle with attendees, offering warm welcomes, engaging in meaningful conversations, praying with those who seek it, and sharing the gospel in personal, relational ways.
Your support of $3,000 will provide funding towards the 2026 Carols by the Lake event.