Lollies, Surfboards and Santa – an entertainment paradise for the 100-plus Nasties Kid’s at the annual Rugby Club Christmas Party at Clareville Beach on Saturday. Meanwhile it was the beer, wine and good company that had the Mum’s and Dad’s excited on a relaxing 25 degree summers afternoon. “…..why would you want to be anywhere else” commented Flynnie before disappearing into the sunset for an hour. “Don’t worry, I’m sure he’ll be back…..” smirked Skip McGrath while sipping on another red.

Not long afterwards and with excitement at fever pitch, the man in the red suit was spotted in an IRB on Pittwater by an exhuberant Hoff and Colin Scott. “There he is…..there he is” pointed Pete Johnno with the smile of a Cheshire Cat but it was Mark ‘Sin-Bin’ Hodgson who led the charge to Santa before being overtaken by a wall of kid’s much to his disappointment. Upon finding a clear landing, Santa raced off the IRB and along the beach with a cluster of children in pursuit. Lollies were then tossed in the air by the jolly fellow before finally settling onto the famed Clareville ‘Stump’ to give the kid’s their Christmas stocking.

Much talking and laughter engulfed the Nasties Kid’s as they lined-up to receive their lolly bags from Santa. As the Kid’s entrusted Santa with their Christmas Wishes, the man in red was more than accommodating to fulfil their dreams much to the chargrin of the parents. A wave goodbye to Santa then more playing and swimming ensued, the day finishing with a game of tug-o-war between both adult’s and kid’s.

The whole of the Newport Nasties would like to thank the committee Skip, Tink & Cowboy and their wives for organizing such a great and fun-filled day. Thanks also goes to the North Palm Beach Lifeguards and Lifesavers for watching over the kid’s in the water. Also, Darren Warrener for providing the boards for the kids and the IRB driver, Jamie King in ensuring Santa’s safety to and from the venue. The Nasties can now look forward to a family-free BOB next week.

Onwards & Upwards.