LOCAL Sensitive Santa returns to the Mount Gambier Marketplace The Limestone Coast’s largest retail shopping centre is getting ready to roll out the red carpet when Santa Claus comes to town next month, but the big man in red and his reindeers won’t be the only VIP guests. Mount Gambier
Marketplace will be offering Sensitive Santa visits for families with special needs during two exclusive sessions in the lead-up to Christmas. Centre manager Andrew Tye says the doors will be opened out of normal trading hours, in order to avoid long queues, crowds and excessive noise. “Having a photo with Santa can be a difficult thing for families of children facing illness or other challenges, so we are offering them their very own visit away from peak-hour groups, in a wheelchair and pram-friendly environment,” he said. “Some of these children will be meeting Santa for the very first time, and we are absolutely thrilled to be able to give families such a memorable gift this festive season.” The Sensitive Santa sessions will be held for two hours prior to trading on Sunday, December 13, and Sunday, December 20, from 8-10am. The 10 minute visits are free of charge, but booking is essential by contacting centre management during business hours on (08)8724 8798. Mount Gambier’s Gordon Education Centre is among those applauding the Marketplace initiative, with principal Robert Barton describing it as an “excellent idea”. “Some of our students come from quite isolated environments, and this is an opportunity for them to access something a little more mainstream,” he said. “Sensitive Santa was a welcome opportunity for children, their parents, carers and siblings last year, by offering the visits again Mount Gambier Marketplace creates a predictable environment for students, relieving
stress and anxiety that any new situation can cause.” The Mount Gambier Marketplace Sensitive Santa experience is one of the key focuses in a broader campaign of exciting, community-based events and attractions this festive season. “Our theme for this year is ‘Christmas 2015 – Where it’s all about giving!’ and while the Sensitive Santa experience really sums up the warm sense of community that exists in our regional city, we will also be adding to the magic of the season by creating additional events that celebrate the spirit of Christmas and engage as many people as possible,” said Mr Tye. Dates for your calendar • December 12 – 10am-3pm. Santa’s big arrival! Live performances, free giveaways, & gifts from Santa for each child. Live radio broadcast, with $1000 shopping spree winner drawn. • December 12 December 24 - Santa daily from 10am-2pm. •December 13 8-10am - Sensitive Santa. Bookings essential. • December 1 to December 24 -11 am4pm. Community Gift Wrapping - local clubs and sporting groups will receive proceeds from a gold coin gift wrapping service.
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