Thousands of people joined in to sing along at Carols by Candlelight in Melbourne on Sunday, with the festivities momentarily interrupted by two Pro-Palestine protesters who stormed the stage as children were performing.
The protesters were tackled and quickly removed, with host David Campbell appealing for calm and assuring people the children were safe.
Victoria police said two people walked on the stage during the event holding flags and chanting at about 8pm.
A 21-year-old Brunswick woman was arrested and issued with an infringement notice for possession of a controlled weapon, police said in a statement. The second protester was moved on by officers.
A further two protesters were denied entry at the gates, police said.
Paul Kelly, G Flip and Casey Donovan were among the performers who lit up the Sidney Myer Musical Bowl stage on Sunday night.
They were joined by the cast of musicals Grease and Wicked, as well as carols regulars Denis Walter, Marina Prior and Silvie Paladino.
The annual event raises money for Vision Australia’s children’s services, with all proceeds supporting families and children who are blind or have low vision.
Carols by Candlelight has been held on Christmas Eve in Melbourne since 1938.
