It is a Lake Macquarie tradition spanning close to 40 years - the jolly man in red making the rounds on a boat to deliver joy and lollies to children on the eve of Christmas.
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"It's not Christmas in Lake Macquarie until Santa comes around on the boat," Rotarian Vic Lewis said.
"People have grown up with this annual event and are now bringing their children down to see Santa."
Mr Lewis and friends from the Rotary Club of Toronto Sunrise took over the organisation of Santa on the Lake five years ago when the Wangi Queen wrapped up its 34-year run of the hugely popular annual event.
The aim of Santa on the Lake is to spread the spirit of Christmas around parts of Lake Macquarie with carols and lollies for the young.
Some 9000 lollies, wrapped up in bags by Rotarians, are handed out by Santa at the five stops he makes around the Lake on the night.
The Rotary club is supported by Trevor Mears who has for the past five years has ferried Santa around the Lake on his boat, Sea Flight.
Mr Mears will be back at it on December 24 when he, Santa and his helpers visit the western shores of Lake Macquarie, from Marmong Point to Wangi.
"When you see the look on the kids' faces - that's what it's all about," Mr Mears said.
"The first time I did this it blew me away. Rounding the corner and seeing 2000 kids lining the shore to see Santa, it's special."
All are welcome to take their family to one of Santa's landing points or join the flotilla of boats to accompany him on his journey.
"You will be able to hear the traditional Christmas carols as Santa approaches you on the boat so come and sing along," Mr Lewis said.
Members of the Toronto Rotary club will assist Santa at each landing where they will also be collecting gold coin donations.
"All money collected will contribute to projects in our local area in the coming year," Mr Lewis said.
The Santa on the Lake schedule for Tuesday, December 24 is: Bolton Point Wharf at 4.30pm, Toronto Baths 5pm, Kilaben Bay Park 6.15pm, Rathmines F Wharf 6.45pm and Wangi Workers Club Wharf 7.15pm.
Ellie-Marie Watts
A journalist with 10 years experience, Ellie-Marie connects readers to the stories that matter in their communities. A Port Stephens-based news, sport and event writer and photographer with a passion for human interest features.
A journalist with 10 years experience, Ellie-Marie connects readers to the stories that matter in their communities. A Port Stephens-based news, sport and event writer and photographer with a passion for human interest features.
