Shellharbour City Council’s usual festive “Elfmas Tips” on social media took a “Seussical” twist this year, thanks to being taken over by the mischievous Shellharbour Grinch.
After sharing his green Grinchmas tips on recycling, safety and local treasures, the Shellharbour Grinch has now gone on to boot out the “Elfs” and hidden them away in council’s annual “Elf ‘n’ Seek” at the Shellharbour Civic Centre and library.
CCTV footage has revealed there are 10 of the magical elves hiding within the civic centre and anyone up for the challenge can report to a library staff member to collect their mission. Oh, the places they’ll go.
Shellharbour Grinch will also see his name up in lights on 23 December at the civic centre backyard for the free Movie Under The Stars screening of – you guessed it – The Grinch.
It’s all part of a Dr Seuss-themed school holiday program, including Dr Seuss Create and Play and a Dr Seuss Family Trivia Night in January.
To find out exactly what the Shellharbour Grinch has been up to, Region managed to snag him for a few minutes to answer some questions.
What inspired you to bring your green charm to Shellharbour this Christmas?
It’s not easy being green … and I’ve been a bit envious of that Elf on a Shelf for a while now. He gets so much attention. So, I thought it was time to bump out that naughty elf … and share my Grinchy tips with the people of Shellharbour.
If you could steal one thing from Shellharbour to add to your Grinchy lair, what would it be and why?
I’d have to say, if I could take one thing home it would be The Links, Shell Cove. There are 18 greens and 18 mini greens in The Shanx. All that green makes my green heart sing!
What’s your favourite spot to lurk (or maybe secretly enjoy) in Shellharbour when you’re not plotting to steal Christmas?
I love hiding amongst the books at one of the five libraries – Shellharbour Civic Centre, Oak Flats, Warilla, Albion Park and Shellharbour Village. I can always find a Dr Seuss book to read in a nook. By hook or by crook, the library is worth a look!
What’s your stance on Christmas carols blasting at Shellharbour Square — do they make your green skin crawl, or have you caught yourself humming along?
Christmas carols, oh my. Don’t ask!
If the people of Shellharbour were to win you over with Christmas cheer, what would they have to do to melt your grinchy heart?
It’s a misconception that I’m a mean-spirited guy. The truth is, I have a huge green heart. And there is nothing I love more than recycling. Think green this Christmas, Shellharbour, and you will make my Grinchy green heart swell with pride.
If you’re looking for something to keep the kids entertained these school holidays, check out the Dr Seuss themed school holiday program at the Shellharbour Civic Centre, or follow the Grinch’s tips on council’s Facebook page.