Forget the reindeer and the sleigh. In the Illawarra suburb of Balgownie, Santa Claus makes his Christmas Eve rounds on a piece of Australian firefighting history: a 1961 Bedford fire truck.
A Suburban Tradition Decades in the Making
This unique festive event, known locally as the lolly run, is no fleeting novelty. Fire and Rescue NSW Balgownie Fire Station has been at the heart of this community tradition for an impressive 45 years. Each Christmas Eve, crew members voluntarily give up their time to deck out their vintage appliance and traverse the local streets, distributing sweets to excited children.
Balgownie Fire Captain Luke Rowles said the initiative is all about spreading seasonal cheer. "We travel all the streets through the local area and give out lollies to all the kids, and sometimes the big kids as well," Captain Rowles explained. He noted the dedication of his team, who undertake the run in less-than-festive conditions. "It is hot work and there's no air conditioning on the old 1961 Bedford fire truck. It's tough work, and we just want to wish everyone a Happy and Merry Christmas."
Community Spirit Fuels the Festive Fun
The tradition has grown beyond just the fire crew and has been warmly embraced by residents, creating a true community event. Adding to the spectacle, Santa is often joined by a reformed Grinch, whose heart famously grew three sizes. The sight of the iconic pair on the vintage truck has become a cherished annual highlight for families.
The community's support is tangible. Mount Ousley resident David Swann has turned his home into an essential pit stop for the firies. "We decided to start having a stop here where they could get a drink," Mr Swann said. The stop now provides sustenance for the crew, with sausages, water, and soft drinks on offer. "We started feeding them sausages, water, fizzy drink, and occasionally beer, but the firies never have the beer," he added with a laugh.
More Than Just Lollies: Creating Lasting Memories
For locals, the lolly run represents more than a sugar hit; it's a pillar of suburban Christmas. David Swann highlighted the broader appeal, noting that the event brings neighbours together. "All the local kids and other people, they come here and the kids actually get to see the fire truck," he said. It offers a rare, close-up look at a working piece of firefighting heritage while fostering a sense of shared celebration.
The enduring success of the Balgownie lolly run underscores the powerful role of local emergency services in building community bonds. For 45 years, the selfless act of the Balgownie firefighters has defined Christmas Eve for generations of families, proving that sometimes, the most memorable festive deliveries don't come from the North Pole, but from the local fire station.
