General News
15 December, 2024
New shepherd in town
If anyone's nativity stable is lacking a sheep or several this season, it might be worth casting an eye across a scene that has popped up just outside Rainbow.
Just as he does every year around this time, a striking shepherd in red has taken up residence in a paddock on the Jeparit Road south of Rainbow, where he's watching by day and by night over a small mixed flock that might also include a piebald goat.
The setup can easily be enjoyed by passers-by, occupying pride of place on the bank of a dam opposite the footy ground.
Organised by Rainbow Business Group, local Rainbow artist Karl Williams has been the one to set it up.
Mr Williams has been creating festive displays for the town's playgroup children for the past two years, with this year marking a special milestone as he brings his work to the streets for the first time.
Mr Williams said he was delighted to bring joy to children and was pleased by the community’s reaction.
“I’ve been doing it for the last two years – I hadn't done anything before that due to COVID," he said.
“I did it for school kids last year as well but this is the first time I've done it on the street.
“The response seems very good.
"The community appreciates it and it makes kids happy.
“It’s basically for the kids.”
This being the Wimmera rather than snowy Europe, Santa has by his side not a team of nine lyrically-named reindeer but a trusty red Kelpie, tongue lolling in the summer heat.
The theme might differ each year but the intent remains constant: to be a bit of fun and a talking point in town.