2008 Advent Pageants around the world November 26th

Thousands of school students all over Australia and now the world are experiencing the Christmas story in a new way, many for the first time.

Schools in Harmony have developed a community program that offers a creative edge to Christmas in schools.
A simple and effective way for schools to connect with the local community and other schools during the Christmas season.
Imagine a community celebration where the students are the stars! Advent pageants puts the school in the center of the community. A simple parade through the main street finishes with a celebration concert, where instead of watching someone else perform, the students are the focus of the day.

An Advent Pageant re-enacts the Christmas story with songs and drama. It starts with a parade, a kind of mobile Christmas story, and finishes at a location where the community can join in.

Contributions of various items from schools are central to each aspect of the program. There is also the option of incorporating an activity -based festival so children have other ways of active participation and enjoyment.

"One of my students, a 10 year old boy, said, "When the microphone came to me I should have said, "why aren't you here? This is the best party ever!"
Edith Zimmerman, Teacher, Gawler, SA

"I have been very pleased with my school's involvement in the Advent Pageant over the past two years. I think it's a great idea and a great opportunity for the community to get together and focus on what is most important about Christmas and engender a sense of sharing and celebration that centers on children and authentic values."
John Kirkwood, Principal, St Brigid's School, Wynyard, TAS.

Poatina’s aging residents are valued for their contribution and service, not just in the village, but through the wealth of their life experience, therefore deserving extra love and care.

The aged therefore represent an important part of the community both in terms of the support and encouragement they give, as well as what they receive from others.
Fusion Australia is developing health and aged care services for the Poatina community and surrounding region that includes a residential aged care facility and respite care services.
Poatina has developed good relationships with local medical, nursing and allied health services in the region, including regular visits by a medical practitioner and community nursing. There is also qualified nursing staff available 24 hours. A First Responders volunteer unit has also been established in the case of any medical emergencies.
Other current services include: Golden chain motel and restaurant, golf course, swimming pool, tennis court, primary and secondary schools, training centres and a community radio station.

Comments by residents

“You’re surrounded by people who are friends, who help when its required, and there’s always something of interest happening. I couldn’t think of a better place to live in old age.”

“Its been wonderful to have a team in Poatina prepared to help in any way. Also seeing the young people about and having them visit gives a lot of pleasure. There’s always someone you can see to talk to.”

"We feel cherished and very much cared for. We’re valued even in our eighties, and not on the scrap heap.”

For more information about Poatina Health and Aged Care please contact
John Latten or Anita Dougall
through the Poatina office on
(03) 6397 8280

The network evolved in the mid 90’s as Fusion leaders, in connecting with business and professional leaders were fascinated to keep coming across people who were quietly working at bringing their Christian values to the workplace - often courageously with little support or understanding. It seemed to us that the telling of these stories would be an encouragement to others and affirming for themselves.

This has proven to be true, and breakfasts now total fifteen - in every capital city and a number of regional centres, and now overseas .  Members from across Australia are invited to an annual weekend gathering in Poatina, Tasmania.

Any person from the business, professional or working world is welcome to come along.

Enquire at your local Fusion centre or contact Michael Cleary at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Open Crowd festivals are central to Fusion’s programs in all countries. Based on authentic expression of community with activities that are simple, engaging, involving people of all ages, they have been shown to be effective in building a sense of community which lasts beyond the event. Where Festivals are run regularly trust builds and creativity and connection grow, lonely people find a role and a place. Activities are provided free of charge and experience has shown that communities where there is division and even violence, experience remarkable changes in community attitudes. Training is available for those who wish to explore the Open Crowd festival in their community and manuals are available on every aspect.

Wombat shops are a great place to get good pre-loved clothing. And the prices are pretty low too. Not only that, but by shopping at Wombat, you'll be providing people with work experience, and all money raised through the shop goes to help Fusion run other Awesome programs in the community.

So come on in and find an ugly tie today!