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Variety Brings Christmas Joy to Newcastle
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Christmas is set to arrive early in Newcastle, with McDonald Jones Stadium transforming into a celebration of joy, fun and festive magic as Variety – the Children’s Charity NSW/ACT brings its much-loved Variety Kids Xmas Party back this November. 

More than 1300 children and their families are expected to join in the inclusive and accessible event, designed to bring Christmas cheer to those who need it most. 

Variety NSW/ACT CEO, Tony Warner, said the festivities will begin with a dedicated Quiet Hour from 3 – 4pm, offering a calm, sensory-friendly experience for up to 150 children before the gates open to an afternoon bursting with Christmas fun, including live performances, sports, games, a petting zoo and of course, photos and Xmas carols with Santa. 

“It’s an absolute highlight on our calendar – a chance for us to give back to the Newcastle community who have stood by us for so long and continue to support our vital work,” he said. 

“From our motoring events to our Spin 4 Kids fundraising events and our Variety Heart Scholarship recipients throughout the Hunter, we deeply value the strong connections we have here with local families and the business community.” 

The afternoon will be hosted by Variety Heart Scholarship recipient and talented musician, Piper Butcher, who is excited to help bring the festive fun. 

“Growing up in Newcastle, I’ve seen firsthand how much this community rallies around its kids,” Piper said.  

“It’s really special to be able to give back through music and help create a bit of Christmas magic for families who deserve a joyful day together.” 

Variety NSW/ACT thanks its generous event sponsors for making the Variety Kids Xmas Party possible – Orica, McDonald Jones Stadium and Woolworths. Thanks also to our event partners – Creative Booth, Klubhouse Karaoke and Bunnings, and to Tamex Transport for delivering the gifts to Newcastle from Sydney. 

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Applications Open for Variety Heart Scholarships

Variety – the Children’s Charity NSW/ACT is calling on families to apply for a 2026 Variety Heart Scholarship, offering life-changing support for young people living with disabilities, chronic illness or financial hardship.   The scholarship provides practical, financial assistance to help children aged 8 – 18 years reach their full potential in sport, music and the creative arts, removing barriers and creating opportunities that may otherwise be out of reach.   Whether its funding for specialist equipment, competitions or training programs, the scholarship is designed to empower children to pursue their passions, build their talent and participate fully in their chosen field.  Variety NSW/ACT CEO, Tony Warner, said the program continues to deliver meaningful, long-term impact for families doing it tough.  “Every child deserves the chance to follow their dreams and feel included, regardless of circumstances,” he said.  “The Variety Heart Scholarship is about recognising potential and providing the support needed to help children thrive – on the field, on the stage, and beyond.”  Over the past decade, more than 500 scholarships have been granted with receipients including:  Parents, carers and guardians of eligible children are encouraged to apply now with applications open until Thursday 21 May at 4pm – visit https://nsw.variety.org.au/variety-heart-scholarships/.   Variety Heart Scholarships are made possible by presenting partner, the Grahame Mapp Family Foundation, in honour of the late Gillian Mapp. 

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