The Salvation Army’s Carols in the Domain > Special ceremony dedicated to victims of Bondi Beach attack – Sydney’s most cherished Christmas tradition, The Salvation Army’s Carols in the Domain, returns this Saturday, 20 December, live at 8.00pm on Seven and 7plus, hosted by Sunrise’sNatalie Barr and Matt Shirvington.
The Salvos Carols in the Domain has always been a place of joy and togetherness, but this year’s event carries a deeper meaning following the tragic events at Bondi Beach last Sunday.
The traditional The Salvos Carols in the Domain candle lighting ceremony will include a special moment of reflection to honour the victims of the tragedy, and several songs will also be dedicated to those lost.
For the first time in its 43-year history, Australia’s largest Christmas celebration proudly welcomes The Salvation Army as its official naming partner, marking a new chapter for this iconic event.
Natalie Barr said:
“After such a deeply challenging time for so many Australians, and with the heartbreaking loss of innocent lives still fresh in our minds, this year’s event feels more important than ever.
“It’s a chance for us to pause, to honour those we’ve lost, and to stand together as a community, whether in the Domain or at home, for a night of reflection and the enduring spirit of Christmas.”
Matt Shirvington added:
“The Salvos Carols in the Domain has always been a night of joy and tradition, but this year it’s a powerful symbol of resilience.
“Sydney is a city that rallies together, and this event is our chance to show that spirit through music. It’s about reminding ourselves that even in tough times, we can create moments of hope and connection.”
The Salvos Carols in the Domain Executive Producer, Michael McKay, said:
“In times of tragedy, Carols in the Domain serves as a place where the community can come together, sing together, even cry together, where kids can wonder at the magic of Christmas and adults can relive their favourite childhood Christmas memories.
“Carols will gently acknowledge last Sunday’s tragic events through moments of reflection, including songs dedicated to those affected and a special lighting ceremony. Just as importantly, it will be a night where families, and especially young children, can feel comforted by the familiarity, warmth and togetherness that Christmas brings.”
Joining Nat and Matt will be an all-star lineup of performers, including children’s entertainment icons The Wiggles, ARIA Award-winning singer-songwriter and The Voice Coach Kate Miller-Heidke, international pop legend Leo Sayer, and Australian Idol judge and Australian music royalty Marcia Hines.
Other confirmed performers for the 2025 The Salvos Carols in the Domain include:
Alyssa Delpopolo
Budjerah
Hugh Sheridan
Erin Holland
James Johnston
Jaedyn Randell
Jael Wena
Jayme-Lee Hanekom
Kym Johnson-Herjavec
Layla Schillert
Mark Vincent
Patrick Roberts
Chong Lim AM – Music Director
Marshall Hamburger
The Cast of Back to the Future: The Musical: Javon King, Ashleigh Benach and Axel Duffy
Young Stars of Australian Opera
Australian Girls Choir
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Sydney Youth Orchestra
Carols All Star Band
Rejoice Gospel Choir
The Salvation Army Choir
Carols in the Domain Choir
And for more carols magic, pick up this week’s New Idea — the official print partner of The Salvos Carols in the Domain. The issue includes an official 16-page souvenir event guide, featuring a free carols songbook, a guide to what’s on at the event plus exclusive interviews with Natalie and Matt.
The Salvation Army’s Carols in the Domain – Saturday 20 December, 8.00pm live on Seven and 7plus
Media Release – Seven
TV Central Seven content HERE
The Salvation Army’s Carols in the Domain > Special ceremony dedicated to victims of Bondi Beach attack
