The spirit of Christmas will shine brightly this December as Carols by Candlelight returns to the Pilbeam Theatre for two spectacular evenings of festive music and charitable giving on 11 and 12 December.
As part of the Christmas Starts Here Event Trail, the much-loved annual event continues a proud tradition of bringing the community together to celebrate the season while supporting an important local cause. Proceeds from the concerts will be donated to CQ Healthy Families Inc., a local organisation committed to preventing domestic and family violence. Through community awareness campaigns, education initiatives and pathways to safety, the organisation delivers valuable support and resources to the Rockhampton community.
Audiences can look forward to an uplifting program featuring talented local performers and musicians, alongside all the Christmas favourites they know and love. From joyful festive classics to traditional Christmas carols, the performances promise to capture the warmth, wonder and spirit of the season.
Deputy Mayor and Communities, Culture and Heritage Councillor Drew Wickerson said Carols by Candlelight was one of the region's most cherished Christmas traditions for all ages.
"Carols by Candlelight is a wonderful opportunity for our community to come together and celebrate everything that makes Christmas special," Cr Wickerson said.
"Not only do these concerts showcase the incredible talent we have here in the Rockhampton Region, they also support a worthy local charity, ensuring the festive spirit of giving extends beyond the stage and directly back into our community."
"As part of the Christmas Starts Here Event Trail, Carols by Candlelight is one of a number of events helping create memorable festive season across the region. Whether it's your first time attending or a family tradition, these concerts are a fantastic way to celebrate the joy of Christmas with friends and loved ones."
Co-founder and Managing Director of CQ Healthy Families, Louise Hayes, said support from events like Carols by Candlelight allows CQ Healthy Families to not only raise funds, but also awareness of domestic and family violence and the support pathways to safety that are available in our community.
"We are incredibly grateful to be the charity partner for this year's Carols by Candlelight. Every ticket purchased helps us continue delivering programs that promote healthy, respectful relationships and support efforts to prevent domestic and family violence across our region," Ms. Hayes said.
"Funds raised through Carols by Candlelight will help us enhance our Domestic Violence Prevention Month Candlelight Vigil in May 2027, creating a more meaningful and family-friendly experience for the community."
Tickets for Carols by Candlelight are available through the Pilbeam Theatre Box Office, by calling 4927 4111 or online at www.seeitlive.com.au/Carols
Event Details
Carols by Candlelight
Date: Friday 11 & Saturday 12 December
Time: 7pm
Location: Pilbeam Theatre
Entry: Adults $5.00 | Concession $2.00 | Children $2.00
CQ Healthy Families Inc.
About
CQ Healthy Families Inc. is a Central Queensland charity committed to preventing domestic and family violence through education, community awareness and stronger pathways to safety. Established in 2019, the organisation works alongside local service providers and community partners to connect individuals and families with information, referral options and support services, helping reduce barriers to accessing assistance and ensuring people know where to turn when they need help.
The organisation supports youth, families, parents and vulnerable individuals through a range of targeted programs and initiatives. These include Love Bites respectful relationships education in local high schools, SHINE wellbeing support for women recovering from domestic and family violence, and CQ Dads for Kids, which promotes positive parenting and respectful relationships.
CQ Healthy Families also raises awareness through community events, social media education campaigns and its annual Candlelight Vigil, which brings the community together in remembrance, reflection and solidarity.
In 2026, CQ Healthy Families led EMPOWER - Ending Domestic Violence Begins Here, the region's first two-day domestic and family violence conference. The event brought together practitioners, community leaders and advocates to share knowledge, strengthen capability and enhance regional responses to domestic and family violence. Through collaboration, education and practical community support, CQ Healthy Families continues to drive meaningful change and contribute to safer, healthier futures for families across Central Queensland.
How Carols by Candlelight funds will be used
Funds raised through Carols by Candlelight will help enhance CQ Healthy Families Inc.'s Domestic Violence Prevention Month Candlelight Vigil in May 2027, with a particular focus on creating a more family-friendly and meaningful experience for children. The funding will support initiatives such as a children's lantern-making activity, alongside acoustic performances or a community choir, helping to foster a sense of hope, connection and reflection. By building on the family-centred spirit of Carols by Candlelight, the organisation aims to create a welcoming space where the community can come together to raise awareness of domestic and family violence and support pathways to safety.
