Local gifts with a personal touch
THIS Christmas, consider supporting local artisans and small businesses by opting for gifts that are made right in your community. There’s a rich variety of options available, ranging from beautifully handcrafted jewellery and striking artwork to delicious preserves and aromatic candles. Each locally sourced gift carries a unique story and a personal touch that mass-produced items simply can’t replicate.
When you choose these thoughtful presents, you’re not only bringing joy to your loved ones but also making a meaningful contribution to the livelihoods of local creators and entrepreneurs. Supporting small businesses helps to foster a vibrant
local economy, keeping jobs in the community and encouraging creative innovation. So this holiday season, embrace the spirit of giving by selecting gifts that truly reflect the talent and artistry of your neighbors — it’s a win-win for everyone involved!
Here’s your chance to chat with the jolly man in red and connect directly with the North Pole!
Telstra is once again offering a direct line to Santa Claus, ensuring your Christmas wishes go straight to the source.
Use any Telstra payphone across Australia to make a free call to Santa by dialling #HO HO HO (#46 46 46).
Share your wish list, ask those burning Christmas questions, and make sure you’re on the nice list this year!
With over 14,000 payphones nationwide, you can reach Santa from November 20 until Christmas Eve. This festive tradition continues to spread holiday cheer, with over 500,000 calls made to Santa last year alone.
To find your nearest payphone, please visit Telstra's website: www.telstra.com.au/
SHOP LOCAL... Support local businesses and makers by purchasing your Christmas gifts in the community. Your ongoing support helps keep the local economy strong, adds a personalised touch and helps people that live and work here have a merry Christmas too. Photo: Supplied
spirit with Carols by Candlelight events
GRAB your picnic blanket and Santa hats—it's time to celebrate! This December, communities are coming together for their beloved Carols by Candlelight events. In Shepparton, this year marks the 50th anniversary of the iconic celebration, promising a night of cherished memories and festive fun for the whole family.
Here’s a list of the Carols by Candlelight events happening around the district in 2024:
TATURA
WHEN: Wednesday, December 11, 2024, 6pm to 9pm.
WHERE: Mactier Gardens, Hogan Street, Tatura.
STANHOPE
WHEN: Friday, December 13, 2024, from 6pm.
WHERE: Birdwood Ave, Stanhope.
TONGALA
WHEN: Saturday, December 14, 2024, from 6pm.
WHERE: Tongala Sound Shell, Mangan Street, Tongala.
MOOROOPNA
WHEN: Saturday, December 14, 2024, 6.30pm to 9.30pm.
WHERE: John Gray Oval, Mooroopna Recreation Reserve, McLennan Street, Mooroopna.
MURCHISON
WHEN: Sunday, December 15, 2024. Markets and activities from 4pm with Carols from 6pm.
WHERE: Murchison Public Gardens, 4 River Road, Murchison
KYABRAM
WHEN: Thursday, December 19, 2024, 5pm to 10pm.
WHERE: Memorial Gardens, Allan Street, Kyabram.
SHEPPARTON
WHEN: Sunday, December 22, 2024, 6pm to 9pm.
WHERE: Queens Gardens, corner of Wyndham and Nixon Streets, Shepparton. A live stream of the event will be available on Council’s website: www.greatershepparton. com.au
CELEBRATING WITH COMMUNITY... During December, several Carols by Candlelight events are happening around the region.
Photo: Supplied
ORDER NOW... North End Bakehouse in Shepparton and Mooroopna has Christmas hampers packed full of treats for every celebration this year. Nicole, Stacey, Kate and Nikita from North End Mooroopna are taking orders now for Christmas. Photo: Aaron Cordy
Baked goods to make Christmas extra special
CHRISTMAS celebrations wouldn’t be the same without baked goods. Christmas cakes and puddings, fruit mince tarts or a fresh batch of shortbread cookies cut into Santa stockings and stars will bring this Christmas to life.
North End Bakehouse in Shepparton and Mooroopna has Christmas hampers packed full of treats for every celebration this year. North End hampers range from little stocking stuffers to larger ones with Christmas cakes and puddings, shortbread,
rumballs, fruit mince tarts and gingerbread men dressed up as Santa. There is something for everyone.
The time to order is now. Orders close Tuesday, December 17 and final pickup Tuesday, December 24 by 2pm.
If a hamper is not for you, you can still get these delicious treats on their own, and their candy cane
neenish tarts are a must. Don’t forget all North End’s other award-winning pies and cakes.
To check out those award-winning pies and place your order, visit the Shepparton store at 2 Grant Court, open Monday-Friday, 7am-4pm, and the Mooroopna store at 52 McLennan Street, open Monday-Friday, 6.30am-4pm, and Saturdays 8am-2pm.
FESTIVE CELEBRATIONS... Decorations are being put up in public spaces, gardens and on homes and businesses. If you have put special effort into your displays, we’d love to hear from you. Photo: Deanne Jeffers
Festive flavours await Order your Christmas meats before December 14
ACROSS the district, the festive spirit is in full swing as Christmas decorations are being carefully placed on homes, businesses, and community spaces. Twinkling lights adorn rooftops, inflatable Santas and reindeer are popping up on front lawns, and public parks are being transformed into magical wonderlands with vibrant displays. As garlands, baubles, and glowing stars appear throughout the region, the excitement builds, bringing a sense of joy and togetherness as everyone prepares to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year—December 25.
Do you love decorating and wish to share your Christmas spirit with the community? Get in touch with The Shepparton Adviser's editorial team, as they go on the hunt for the best festive decorations and light displays around the region in 2024. You can reach out by calling 5832 8900 and asking for editorial, messaging us on social media, or emailing editorial@sheppartonadviser.com.au
WITH Christmas just around the corner, Brad's Magic Meats is gearing up for the festive season with an enticing selection of delicious meats for holiday feasts.
Customers can now place their orders for a mouthwatering selection that includes hams, seafood, kabana, puddings, roast pork, turkey, and chicken roasts, ensuring that everyone's holiday table is filled with exceptional flavours.
Brad and the team invite the community to pop in and grab an order form by December 14 to ensure they secure their favourite festive meats. For convenience, customers can also reach out via phone or social media to place their orders.
Whether you're planning a large family gathering or an intimate dinner, the high-quality products at Brad's Magic Meats are sure to impress your
guests and make any celebration memorable. This year, the team earned the prestigious title of Best Traditional Beef Sausage in Victoria and placed third in the gourmet sausage category. They take great pride in the quality of their cuts of meat. With a reputation built on excellence, this beloved local business is dedicated to providing the very best for the holiday season. Be sure to place your orders early to avoid disappointment!
Brad's Magic Meats are located at 41 Vaughan Street, Shepparton and are open 7am to 6pm on weekdays and 7am to 3pm on Saturdays. You can also find them on social media or call 5821 4449.
TURKEY TIME... Brad and the team at Brad’s Magic Meats are taking orders for Christmas until December 14. Pop into the award-winning butcher to place your order for roast meats, ham, seafood, kabana, puddings and more. Photo: Deanne Jeffers
Plan your unforgettable year-end celebration
AS the festive season approaches, Noble Monks is the perfect destination to gather with family and friends. With a delightful breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu, you’ll find something to satisfy everyone’s palate. Be sure to check out their weekly specials, which add a unique twist to traditional favourites.
For those looking to unwind, the cocktail and mocktail menu offers a range of refreshing options, perfect for toasting to the holiday season. And don’t miss out on their juices, smoothies or famous Freak Shakes!
BOOK YOUR EVENT... If you’re planning an end-of-year event or other function with friends, colleagues or family, speak to Noble Monks, which has two large function spaces and diverse food and beverage menus that will appeal to any group.
are
family for over four years and proprietor for two, is excited to welcome guests for festive celebrations.
Owner Aum, who has been part of the Noble Monks
Noble Monks is not just about fantastic food and drinks; it’s also an ideal venue for celebrations. With two spacious function areas that can each accommodate up to 100 guests, the venue is licensed for 300 people, making it a perfect spot for any festive get-together or post-Christmas event. Whether you’re planning a birthday, anniversary, wedding, engagement, or work break up, the dedicated team at Noble Monks is here to help you make your event memorable.
Noble Monks is open 8am to 3pm Tuesday to Sunday, and on Friday and Saturday there are open 8am to 3pm,
and 5pm until close. Please note that the business will close for a well-deserved break after December 22, 2024. Book your end-of-year function by calling 0433 314 488 or visit 120-126 Maude Street, Shepparton.
MANY of us will start our Christmas shopping soon and it is important to stay safe while shopping for loved ones, particularly if shopping online. Here are some tips to stay safe during the holiday season:
1. Look out for fake online shopping sites Scammers may set up fake storefronts to entice shoppers to make payments to snap up popular products for attractive prices. Unfortunately, many of these stores sell fake products or simply nothing at all. To avoid falling victim, thoroughly research companies you don’t recognise. Search their ABN, check for reviews online, and search for scam alerts on ScamWatch if something doesn’t feel right.
2. Be aware of phishing emails More than 80,000 phishing scams have been reported to ScamWatch so far this year. Look out for unsolicited emails, messages, or calls requesting personal or financial information. At this time of year, these could look like missing or undelivered parcel emails or texts. Always verify the legitimacy of the communication with the people or business sending them before sharing any sensitive data. Never share your passwords!
3. Be wary of impersonation scams Scammers might try to impersonate organisations, with criminals often posing as cyber security or fraud
specialists from banks. And because it’s also a time of giving, scammers may also see this as an opportunity to target people's generosity with charity scams. Texts, emails and websites may pose as people or organisations you trust. Australians lost an estimated $2.7B to scams in 2023, including impersonation scams, so if you’re not sure, hang up, don’t reply, or don’t engage.
Remember, don’t give money or personal information to anyone if you feel unsure, ask yourself if this message or call could be fake, and act quickly if something feels wrong by contacting your financial organisation or reporting your experience to bodies like ScamWatch.
Pictured
Bijaya and Smaran from Noble Monks. Photo: Deanne Jeffers
Food is the heart and soul of Christmas...
ELEVATE GIFT GIVING...with Europa Deli and Cafe’s renowned and expertly curated Christmas hampers, guaranteed to bring about an abundance of joy and sensory delight this festive season. Available in a variety of sizes, featuring
THIS Christmas, Europa Deli and Café is offering the perfect way to elevate gift-giving with their luxurious, expertly curated hampers. A beloved destination for food lovers, the deli is known for its exceptional selection of European cheeses, cured meats, Dutch cakes, artisanal sweets, and gourmet condiments, making their hampers a delightful treat for anyone with a taste for the finer things in life.
Europa Deli’s Christmas hampers combine an exquisite variety of their expertly sourced wares, including at a glance, traditional and handcrafted sweets, pickles, chutneys, cold-pressed olive oils, gourmet pasta, sauces, biscotti, boutique tea and more. Thoughtfully arranged to surprise and delight, each hamper offers a sensory journey of
rich flavours and textures, perfect for sharing with friends, family, or colleagues during the festive season.
Available in a variety of sizes and price ranges, these hampers cater to all budgets, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the gift of premium gourmet treats this Christmas. Whether it’s a small token of appreciation
or a grand gesture, Europa Deli’s hampers are a tasteful way to celebrate the spirit of generosity and holiday cheer.
For those looking to make their Christmas celebrations extra special, Europa Deli and Café invites customers to place their orders today. With a reputation for quality and customer satisfaction, they guarantee that each hamper will bring joy to the lucky recipient.
Visit Europa Deli at 37 Vaughan Street, Shepparton or phone their friendly team on 5831 3109 to make this holiday season one to remember.
SUMMER DEALS... Solar City Marine and Caravans have great deals in time for Christmas, including substantial discounts on all 2024 caravan models that are ready to be towed out of the showroom.
For gifts, snag a bargain with 20 per cent off all fishing gear and deals on Yamaha outboard motors.
DISCOVER sensational summer savings at Solar City Marine and Caravans! For a limited time, enjoy 20 per cent off all fishing gear, including rods, reels and tackle. Whether you're a weekend warrior or a seasoned angler, now is the perfect time to stock up on the essentials.
With deals on a vast selection of NOVA caravans and the brand-new premium My Dream RV line, this is an excellent time to purchase or upgrade a caravan. Every van in stock is heavily discounted, all 2024 models need to be moved on, meaning they are ready to leave the showroom floor for the open road.
If you're looking for a great gift, Solar City Marine and Caravan's extensive range of caravan and boating accessories is a great place to start. In addition to Quintrex boats in stock, they have 20 per cent off all Quintrex branded accessories, perfect for
anyone who loves spending time outdoors.
But that's not all! Take advantage of exclusive offers on Yamaha outboards, where you can snag $20 off per horsepower on a range of powerful options from 2.5 to 25hp. These reliable motors will have you cruising smoothly on the water in no time!
Don't miss out on these unbeatable summer deals!
Visit Solar City Marine and Caravans large showroom at 195 Numurkah Road, Shepparton, today and gear up for an unforgettable season of fishing, boating, and exploring.
Pictured are sales manager Jim Edmund and principal dealer Leigh McCully. Photo: Deanne Jeffers
Serving up the most important meal of the year
FINDING the perfect card and gift for someone you cherish is simple when you visit Focus Cards and Gifts. The friendly team offers personalised service and an extensive range of Hallmark, Henderson, and other branded cards suitable for everyone on their list this festive season. Choose from greeting cards, blank cards, 3D cards and amusing sound cards.
New season's stock of giftware and Christmas cards has arrived in store, with something for everyone at a price point that suits any budget. Willow Tree nativity scenes and hanging ornaments are perfect as a gift or to decorate your home. Focus Cards and Gifts offers the
most extensive range of Willow Tree figurines locally and boasts an impressive selection of glass angels, candles, friendship knots and more.
Shoppers should not miss the Black Friday sale on November 29, where they can enjoy 20 per cent off handbags, including Black Caviar and Anna Nova ranges.
Gift wrapping is available, or customers can browse the extensive range of Christmas wrapping, boxes, bags, and trimmings, including Bluey wrapping for kids' presents.
Focus Cards and Gifts is located at 181 Maude Street, Shepparton, and their team looks forward to serving you this festive season.
THE CENTREPIECE...of any Christmas table, bringing murmurs of delight and joy, is an expertly prepared ham, succulent turkey or festive roast of choice to mark the most important meal of the year. As one of the longeststanding independent butchers in Shepparton, Krueger’s Fine Meats and Smallgoods offer an exceptional selection of premium meats as well as renowned service to ensure your Christmas is one to remember. Pictured from left are store proprietors Martin and Emma along with team members Paul and David. Photo: Natasha Fujimoto
BRINGING murmurs of delight and eager anticipation, the gathering of loved ones around the Christmas table is perhaps the greatest joy of the festive season, that’s why it’s important to obtain the best quality meats and smallgoods possible.
As one of the longest-standing independent butchers in town, Krueger’s Fine Meats and Smallgoods offer an exceptional selection of premium meats and traditional smallgoods from expertly prepared hams to succulent turkeys, rib eye and all-Australian roast pork, to name but a few fine and festive cuts. These specialty items are the perfect centrepiece for your Christmas lunch or dinner, ensuring a memorable feast that will leave guests asking for seconds.
One of the standout features of Krueger’s is their personalised service. Not only do they stock an
impressive range of traditional Christmas meats, but they also go the extra mile to cater to special requests. If you have a cherished, family stuffing recipe or a specific flavour in mind for your roast, Krueger’s is happy to accommodate you upon supply. Their dedication to customer satisfaction ensures that your meal will be tailored to perfection.
With Christmas just around the corner, it’s best to place your order by December 13 to ensure you don’t miss out. Visit Krueger’s Fine Meats and Smallgoods at 22 Colliver Road, Shepparton, or call them on 5821 5414 to reserve your Christmas feast today.
HUGE SELECTION... Shepparton’s Focus Cards & Gifts is your one-stop shop this Christmas, offering a wide range of cards, wrapping supplies, and unique gifts for every occasion. Pictured is co-owner Shelley Culhane. Photo: Deanne Jeffers
Crafting the ideal Christmas Hamper for your sewing enthusiast
THIS holiday season, skip the stress of finding the perfect gift for the sewing enthusiast in your life and head straight to Shepparton Sewing Centre! Their Christmas Hampers are the ideal solution for anyone who loves to sew, quilt, or craft and they’re guaranteed to look fetching under the tree.
Custom-made to suit any budget, these hampers come packed with all the sewing essentials, from gorgeous fabrics and threads to tools and notions that’ll inspire creative projects. Best of all the hampers are beautifully presented, ready to deliver that “wow” moment when the gift is presented. And for those who want to really raise the stakes, there’s even space to add a little something extra, perhaps a festive bottle to
complement the festive spirit!
No need to fuss over the details; the Shepparton Sewing Centre team will take care of everything, making sure your gift is thoughtfully arranged and beautifully packaged, ready to suit your budget, working their magic because no hamper is too big or too small.
For those who prefer flexibility, gift vouchers are another option, perfect for contributing perhaps to grander aspirations for a new sewing machine, or the like.
Order by mid-December and pick up your hamper in time for Christmas Eve. Visit Shepparton Sewing Centre today, because when it comes to gifts, it’s the thought (and the fabric!) that counts!
Christmas shortbread recipe
BAKING can be a fun activity for the whole family this Christmas. A batch of traditional shortbread with a twist will leave you with a delightful treat for the big day or wonderful little stocking stuffers.
INGREDIENTS
• Melted butter, to grease
• 250g butter, unsalted, at room temperature
• 100g (1/2 cup) caster sugar
• 300g (2 cups) plain flour, sifted
• 90g (1/2 cup) rice flour, sifted
STEP 1
Preheat oven to 150°C. Brush 2 baking trays with melted butter to grease. Use an electric beater to beat the butter and sugar in a bowl until pale and creamy.
STEP 2
Add the plain flour, beating on low speed until almost combined. Use your hands to bring the dough together in the bowl. Turn onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently until smooth.
STEP 3
Divide the dough into 2 equal portions. Use your hands to shape 1 portion of dough into an 18cm-diameter disc. Transfer to 1 of the prepared trays. Use a flatbladed knife to smooth the surface. Pinch the edges to create a fluted edge. Use a small sharp knife to score the disc into 8 wedges and use a fork to prick the dough all over. Repeat with the remaining dough to make a second disc.
STEP 4
Bake the shortbread in oven, swapping the trays halfway through cooking,
THE IDEAL SOLUTION...to bringing a smile of delight to your special sewing enthusiast, quilter or craftsperson this Christmas, Shepparton Sewing Centre is ready to curate the perfect hamper to suit all needs and budgets. Pictured is customer service representative, Sandra Kent. Photo: Natasha Fujimoto
Photo: Supplied
Nothing beats a country woman’s Christmas puddings
THE Country Women’s Association (CWA) of Victoria will hold their annual Christmas Fare on Saturday, December 7 between 9:00am and 2:00pm at CWA headquarters, 3 Lansell Road, Toorak. It will be a wonderful opportunity to experience a morning of relaxed shopping, stroll through Umina’s historic gardens, sit down and enjoy the CWA of Victoria’s famous Devonshire Tea.
It’s a great opportunity to pick up some yummy CWA-baked goodies with old favourites including traditional Christmas cakes, puddings and shortbreads. Stallholders will also be on-site selling a fantastic range of food and gifts including berries, cheese,
jewellery, candles, hampers and plants.
For those who can’t make the trek to Melbourne, CWA Eastern Goulburn Valley Branch in Shepparton will hold a pop-up stall at the Uniting Church, on Fryers Street, Shepparton Friday, December 13 from 10.00am to 1.00pm.
You can pre-order delicious Christmas Cakes and yummy Christmas Puddings by calling Helen Wall on 0427 389 721 or Helen Sands on 0439 372 267. Cash payment upon collection.
Funds raised by the wonderful volunteers of the CWA of Victoria assist vulnerable women, children and families in need.
Candlelight vigil for reflection and remembrance
AS the holiday season approaches, many may find it to be a challenging time filled with memories of loved ones we've lost. To honour those we miss and to provide support to one another, the We Listen Support Group is hosting its annual Candlelight Vigil in Mooroopna. Join in solidarity with the broader community to reflect and remember the lives of family and friends we hold dear on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, from 8pm at Ferrari Park Lake, on McLennan Street.
Steve Neff, the organiser of the event, emphasised the importance of this gathering. "Our annual vigil is to support all those loved family members and friends that we all miss and have lost during the year. It's an opportunity to come together to remember their lives and to show our love," Steve said, extending the invitation to all to light a candle in memory of those dear to us. Help is available. If you or someone you know is struggling, you can reach out to Lifeline Australia on 13 11 14. https://www.lifeline.org.au/
Stocking
SOLIDARITY... If you’re missing someone you love this Christmas, join the community at the We Listen Candlelight Vigil on December 17 at 8pm at Ferrari Park, Mooroopna. This vigil is to provide support to all those loved family members and friends that we all miss and have lost during the year. Photo: Supplied ARE you looking for fun and affordable stocking stuffers? Consider small treats like gourmet chocolates, festive-themed socks, mini puzzles, or quirky keychains. Personalised items like a nametagged keyring or a custom ornament can also make for a thoughtful touch. Remember, it's the little surprises that often bring the biggest smiles on Christmas morning!
surprises!
CHRISTMAS FAIR... The CWA Eastern Goulburn Valley Branch in Shepparton will hold a pop-up stall at the Uniting Church, on Fryers Street, Shepparton. It’ll be the chance to pick one or more of their delicious traditional Christmas cakes, puddings and shortbreads. Perfect for a gift or a special treat for yourself. Photo: Supplied
A opportunityglittering to take advantage of Black Friday Sales
AS the festive season approaches, Prouds Jewellers is making it easier than ever to give the perfect gift with their highly anticipated Black Friday Super Sale. Offering 25 to 50 per cent off selected jewellery and watches*, this is the ideal opportunity to find a meaningful present that will be cherished for years to come. Whether it’s a stunning necklace, an elegant bracelet, a pair of sparkling earrings, or a timeless watch, Prouds’ wide selection ensures there’s something for everyone on your Christmas shopping list.
A family-owned business since 1903, Prouds has earned its reputation as Australia’s most trusted and largest jewellery chain. Known for its commitment to quality and craftsmanship, Prouds works with some of the world’s finest goldsmiths to create pieces that exude both beauty and lasting value. This Black Friday Super Sale presents a unique chance at Prouds Jewellers Shepparton to acquire luxury jewellery at an unbeatable price.
Not just a gift, jewellery is a symbol of love and appreciation, so why not celebrate your loved ones with a thoughtful and exquisite gift that will remind them of your affection for years to come. With discounts on silver, diamond, gemstone jewellery, watches, and more, there’s no better time to shop at Prouds and make this holiday season truly special.
A GLITTERING OPPORTUNITY... Prouds Jewellers is making it easier than ever to give the perfect, meaningful gift this Christmas with their highly anticipated Black Friday Super Sale offering 25 to 50 per cent off selected jewellery and watches. Photo: Supplied
Take advantage of Proud Jewellers’ Black Friday Super Sale by heading into their newly relocated and updated store on the corner of Maude and Fryers Streets. *Exclusions and conditions apply.
For the food lovers in your
Eco-friendlygift wrapping
This Christmas, go green with your gift wrapping. Being crafty and thrifty with wrapping by using recyclable kraft paper, fabric scraps or even a colourful scarf to wrap presents is excellent for the environment and the bank account. Decorate with sprigs of greenery, dried flowers, or biodegradable ribbons.
You can even go one step further and try your hand at making your own festive decorations. There is heaps of inspiration online for recycling trash and turning it
into stunning Christmas decorations. Not only does it look beautiful, but it's also a great way to reduce waste during the holiday season.
SAVING THE PLANET, ONE PRESENT AT A TIME... Do your part to reduce waste this Christmas and try out making eco-friendly wrapping or even your own festive decorations. Photo: Supplied
Prepared to fly on Christmas day?
JAMES Brownjohn is operations manager at RMIT Aviation Academy and a former network controller for major airlines. James had this advice for people looking to travel over the busy Christmas period, that could save you money and be less stressful.
"There’s always a lot of discussion about how to get the best deal when you’re travelling over summer. The tried-and-true method is to travel on Christmas Day,” James said.
a shared sense of community at airports for those working and travelling. There’s also a feeling of gratitude to staff who are working to keep airlines flying over Christmas."
Dr Angel Zhong is Associate Professor in Finance, specialising in global financial markets, behaviour and trends.
"Dynamic pricing taps into the urgency and emotions of the holiday season, knowing many travellers are willing to pay more to reunite with loved ones. This makes it crucial to stick to a budget and avoid spur-of-the-moment purchases.
"Domestic travel goes crazy in the days leading up to Christmas. And then international travel is popular from Boxing Day and into the New Year. If you’re looking for a relatively stress-free day of travel, and to make some savings, the sweet spot is December 25th itself.
"For example, a one-way flight from Melbourne to London on Christmas Day with one major airline costs $1,684. The same fare is more expensive across the festive season, including on Boxing Day. If you were to book in the New Year, it would cost almost 70 per cent more.
"Beyond the savings, it’s often far less stressful to travel on Christmas Day. People are in a festive mood and there’s
"For budget-conscious travellers, the unpredictability of airfare changes can be tough. Tools like price alerts and fare trackers can help manage costs and avoid surprises. Planning ahead, being flexible with dates, and considering alternative airports can also make a big difference.
"Airlines adjust prices in real-time based on demand, seat availability, and competition. Over the festive season, surging demand often leads to sharp price increases, leaving late bookers to bear the brunt."
GETAWAY... Dreaming of a holiday? While this time of year can be an expensive time to travel, two experts have shared their advice to anyone with wanderlust and the best way to save money and your sanity. Photo: Supplied