The smell of eucalyptus wafted through the Blacksmith’s Cottage for the Old Time Christmas open day. A gum tree branch sparkled and shone with hand made decorations and paper chains hung at the windows. Socks were pinned up over the fire-place waiting for Santa’s descent, probably with a whoosh of soot. Puddings hung at the fireplace in the kitchen and the whole romance of an English Christmas transported to the heat of Australia came to life once more. The Old Forge got into the spirit of things and glittered with tinsel. A wonderful celebration of the Festive Season a bygone era!
