Q&A: Father Christmas

Father Christmas

GAIL WILLIAMS is pleased to report that the Big Guy guy in red and white is every bit as jolly as his publicity agent said he would be (although he may have been enjoying a generous pour of sherry at the time of the interview). GW: When you and the reindeer are flying over Subiaco, what is the first identifiable landmark you spot, and what emotions does it evoke? FC: This year, I will have ONE Subiaco to guide me into my usual landing spot on the roof at the Subiaco Hotel where I will park the reindeers while I deliver the gifts to the new families. It makes me so happy that ONE Subiaco will bring families to Subi. Subi Hotel always puts out grass for the reindeer and a little something for Santa. GW: What is the most touching interaction you have had with a family in Subiaco? One which drew tears to your eyes? FC: I’m always pleased that the churches in Subiaco do so much for the homeless. What also makes me emotional is getting pictures and letters from the children at the Subiaco library, I take them home and Mrs Claus puts them up on the fridge, so I see them all year.

GW: Why is Santa always so jolly, and what is your “jolly place” in Subiaco? FC: I’m always jolly because Christmas is such a special time of sharing love to everybody. My happy place is the Subiaco library, and that’s because the librarians are lovely and welcome the families to the library year after year and sing songs with everyone. My favourite song is Santa Claus is Coming to Town.

GW: What do you think of Subi chimneys, and do you have a problem getting down any? FC: I love that Subiaco has

so many old houses with chimneys. I don’t really have any problem getting down them because although I might look big, Mrs Claus has me on a strict diet for most of the year. I just ask all owners of Federation and Victorian homes to give the chimney a quick sweep on 22 or 23 December.

GW: Where would Santa find the best tipple of whisky or sherry in Subi? FC: Lums is one I would like to try because it is in an old building and has a chimney. Also, Bark because of its name. I believe it would be friendly to dogs and reindeer.

GW: Best spot for a reindeer carrot? FC: Farmer Jacks. The reindeer are vegan and lactose-intolerant.

GW: After eating all that Christmas cake, where do you have a sneaky little workout in Subi? FC: Lords is my favourite place for a work-out. Mrs Claus has got me doing yoga, and they do a good class there with lots of jolly people. Some even dress up in fancy dress just for me. And they have a good Christmas party with loads of food.

GW: Any funny moments you have experienced while spreading the good cheer? FC: Once Whisk Creamery tried to give the reindeers ice cream but I had to say no because the reindeer can't drink milk.

GW: If you have run out of gifts in the sleigh, where is a good place to stock up in Subiaco for those emergency gifts? FC: I sometimes pop into the Japanese Flea Market because I love their unique, handmade gifts, which fits into my philosophy. The reindeer are bit frightened of the fleas, though. Merry Christmas to you all! To meet Father Christmas in Subiaco, head to seesubiaco.com.au for his schedule.