Annabelle Cleeland MP meets Santa in the region

Annabelle Cleeland, Member for Euroa, has today confirmed she has held a highly productive, and surprisingly jovial, meeting with Santa Claus during his brief stopover in the electorate.

In what Ms Cleeland described as “one of the more spirited stakeholder engagements of the year”, Santa outlined his clear expectations for local children in the lead-up to Christmas.

“Santa was very firm on his position,” Ms Cleeland said.

“He assured me he’s keeping a very close eye on the Euroa electorate, and he asked me to pass on a simple message to our young residents: be good… or at least make a convincing effort.”

According to Ms Cleeland, the meeting covered a range of key seasonal topics, including Christmas wish-lists, reindeer grazing conditions, and the ongoing logistical challenges of chimney-related access in newer homes.

“I took the opportunity to advocate for our region and emphasised that we have some of the best-behaved children in Victoria,” she said.

“Santa nodded politely, took notes, and then suggested that a few households may want to lift their roof cleaning game before the 25th.”

Ms Cleeland said that while the conversation was light-hearted, the message was clear.

“With Christmas just around the corner, it’s time for kids to be on their very best behaviour – helping out at home, being kind to siblings, and avoiding the classic ‘I didn’t do it’ defence,” she said.

“Santa has his list, and I can confirm he does check it twice.”

Ms Cleeland also encouraged families across the electorate to embrace the festive season.

“This time of year, brings so much joy to our communities,” Ms Cleeland said.

“If you spot Santa out and about, make sure to give him a wave – he’s working overtime and appreciates the support.

“And remember, it’s not what is under the tree that matters, it’s who’s gathered around it.”