Following on from the Lismore App's earlier story on Christmas preparations for Lismore and surrounds (What's the news on upcoming events to prepare for Christmas in Lismore) comes the official launch of Shopbaby Carols In The Heart by Mayor Steve Krieg this morning.

This year the venue is a strategic choice, Nesbitt Park, South Lismore off Casino Street, where many houses and businesses were inundated from the February 28 natural disaster.

Mayor Krieg said, "Our events team specifically chose Nesbitt Park as the real epicentre of the tragedy that happened on the 28th of February."

"This is a chance to say that South Lismore is still here. There are people that are living in their homes close by here and we've still got such a long way to go in our rebuild, but it really is a strategic decision to have it at Nesbitt Park.

(The open spaces of Nesbitt Park waiting to host this year's Carols In The Heart)

"You know our mountain bike track is back and fully operational now, which has taken a lot of work and a lot of effort from the council. The state government's been exceptional in their support, but we really wanted to have it at a venue in South Lismore to say that we're still here, we're rebuilding and we're coming back bigger and better than ever."

The Mayor, with key sponsors Shopbaby and the Lismore Workers Club, outlined the key acts that will be performing at this year's Carols In The Heart.

"Cosima from Australian Idol fame is coming as well as JD Smith from the Ten Tenors fame as well as a variety of local musicians so it's well worth the effort to come down and support the Carols."

JD Smith is one of Australia's finest pop vocalists and a member of the international vocal supergroup, The Ten Tenors.

Cosima De Vito is a powerhouse female vocalist who rose to fame on Australian Idol in 2004.

Unlike his 'Horses' karaoke appearance at the One From The Heart concert in May, Mayor Krieg says there will be no repeat performance, "I'm on the soundcheck stage," Mayor Krieg joked.

Along with the entertainment, there will be a spectacular laser display thanks to the Lismore Workers Club.

For those that have lost their mode of transport or may find it difficult to travel to Nesbitt Park, Lismore City Council has partnered with HART Services to provide free transport to the event. More details will be released in the coming weeks so you can book your seat.

Shopbaby Carols In The Heart will be held on Sunday, 11 December from 4:30pm to 9pm at Nesbitt Park, South Lismore.

"We're really looking forward to seeing the smiles on people's faces after what has been a tough year," Mayor Krieg concluded.