ON Sunday December 8, an afternoon amongst the gum trees, the Christmas spirit soared high at the Tolmie Twilight Christmas Market with over 200 people in attendance at the Tolmie Recreation Reserve.

The festivities kicked off with the grand opening of the resurfaced Tolmie Tennis Court across the paddock from the market.

Newly elected Tolmie Tennis Club president Cameron Merrylees untied the ribbon and then a number of community members had the opportunity to put the court to the test.

Danny Cahill said it took around two days to lay down the grass for the court and one to sand it.

There is 16 tonne of sand on the court now.

“The grass court is softer on your feet; you can slide on it,” he said.

“It also probably doesn’t get as hot as a concrete surface.”

Recreation Reserve committee president Sarah Brennan said the refurbished facility offers the community new opportunities to get involved in sport and recreation.

“Alongside tennis, you can play pickleball, badminton, table tennis, barefoot bowls and netball on the court,” she said.

“It’s fantastic to finally have it all completed.

“We are all thrilled, because it will be a safe and fun facility that can be used all year round.”

Sarah said the Twilight Market is very much for the Tolmie community, with a variety of activities for everyone.

There were fifteen different stalls including arts and crafts, jewellery, photography, berries, fudge and delicious food.

The MAD orchestra performed festive songs and then there were carols.

Even Santa made an appearance.

There was also a raffle at the market raising money for a wheelchair accessible van for Carol Ovenden.

Local businesses donated up to $2987 in prizes.

One of Carol’s carers, Steff Teunissan said they raised $3100 last Sunday.

“We have raised about $9000 all up,” Steff said.

“Most second-hand vehicles range anywhere from $16000 upwards.

“The van we are going to look at is a Toyota HiAce, but it is not set in stone yet.

“If the van is unsuitable, we will need to keep fundraising, because unfortunately they aren’t cheap.”