Each year NSW Rural Fire Service volunteers across the state don the Santa suit to travel around town, waving and giving out lollies to the community before Christmas.
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Lake Cathie Rural Fire Brigade senior deputy captain Bruce Small has been with the brigade for more than 17 years, while deputy captain Nathan Hall has spent 18 years with NSW RFS including three at Lake Cathie.
Both Kris Kringles still believe in the joyful powers of Saint Nick.
"Being able to spread some Christmas cheer to the community each year for me is all about sharing a bit of joy with the kids," Mr Smail said.
"The kids look forward to the Santa Lolly Run and they love it. We get hassled about when Santa is coming to town right through September and November.
"Even the older kids like it and it's a tradition that has been done since day dot. We'd never miss it."
Mr Hall was originally volunteering with the NSW Rural Fire Service on the NSW central coast before moving to the Lake Cathie unit.
"It's a big celebration for us to see the community coming out to support us (after a hard couple of years)," he said.
"Seeing the kids from the community come running out to see Santa and get their lollies makes it all worthwhile."
Lake Cathie is one of 2,100 rural fire brigades across NSW with volunteer members responding to emergencies 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
The brigade was recognised with a NSW Government Community Service Award and was celebrated as the Community Group of the Year in Port Macquarie earlier this year.
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