A solo performance from forward Taylor Walker was among the highlights of the 2011 Crows Foundation Christmas Carols on Tuesday night.
Around 800 people packed the Westpac Centre and watched on as Walker - after strong encouragement from former X-Factor contestant and Crows Carols headline act Hayley Teal - belted out the chorus of ‘Joy to the World’ in his trademark bass tone.
The evening failed to unearth any budding singers in the playing group, but the team did provide a hearty rendition of ‘We Wish You a Merry Christmas’.
Coach Brenton Sanderson, who had the longest autograph line of anyone, was presented on stage and captain Nathan van Berlo also took the microphone to introduce new recruits, Brad Crouch, Luke Brown, Lewis Johnston, Tom Lynch, Josh Jenkins, Ben Dowdell, Sam Kerridge, Mitch Grigg, Nick Joyce and Cam Ellis-Yolmen.
There was a surprise visit from Father Christmas, who was delighted with the 400 presents placed under the Toyota Christmas tree by the Club’s members and supporters.
The presents were donated to charitable organisations, The Smith Family, Wesley Uniting Care, Time for Kids and the Flinders Medical Centre Children’s Ward on Wednesday.
Part funds raised from the night will go to the Guide Dogs SA/NT Autism Assistance Program, while the Crows Supporter Group donated the proceeds of the-ever popular sausage sizzle to the Crows Foundation.
The raffle was won by a lucky lady, who took home the very first signed 2012 Crows guernsey.
Thank you to everyone who came along, or donated their time to make the event possible.