Outrage Erupts at Cronulla Christmas Carols Over “Clashing” Festive Styling

Skye Waverley | Social Reporter | Sutherland Shire Gazette

17 December 2025

What should have been a magical night of festive cheer at the Cronulla Christmas Carols at Gunnamatta Park Pavilion has ended in controversy, with local parents flooding social media in outrage over what they call a “betrayal of the aesthetic brief.”

For weeks, the Mums of the Shire Facebook group had been buzzing with rumors that this year’s event would be styled in muted neutral tones — think beige, ivory, and soft eucalyptus green — a palette beloved by local influencers and boho-themed baby showers. Many parents had meticulously coordinated matching family outfits in preparation, with children dressed in linen rompers and parents in flowing white ensembles, ready for Instagram-worthy family portraits.

However, upon arrival, they were met with a shocking scene: traditional Christmas styling in bold reds, greens, and shimmering golds. “It was a visual assault,” fumed mum-of-three Tahlia Meadowbrook, still clutching her taupe picnic blanket in disbelief. “I expected rustic chic, maybe a Scandi woodland vibe — not something out of a department store Santa setup!”

Social media erupted with furious posts under hashtags like #NeutralOrNothing and #ChristmasBetrayal2024. “We posed in front of a giant inflatable Santa framed by flashing red lights — my kids looked like extras from Elf: The Horror Remake,” wrote local influencer @ShireMamaVibes.

Event organisers defended the classic theme, arguing that “Christmas has always been about joy, tradition, and clashing colors.” However, they promised to consider a more “aesthetically conscious” setup next year — possibly featuring “muted golds, ethically-sourced tinsel, and a neutral-toned reindeer named Dusty.”