The Fire and Rescue crew will escort Santa, once again riding in the sidecar of a Harley Davidson, through residential streets in Raymond Terrace and Heatherbrae on Sunday, December 19 where they anticipate some 5000 lolly bags will be handed out to children.

"We are excited to once again deliver the lolly run in Raymond Terrace and Heatherbrae," Raymond Terrace Fire and Rescue deputy captain Giacomo Arnott said.

"Last year we threw 5000 bags of lollies to kids across our area. We went street-to-street last year because of the COVID-19 restrictions, which was really well received, so we're going to go street-to-street again this year."

It is believed that the hugely popular lolly run has been a Raymond Terrace Christmas tradition for 60 years.

Generations of children who grew up receiving lollies from the jolly man in red and his firefighting companions now escort their children's children to meet the truck on delivery day.

A born and raised Raymond Terrace resident, Mr Arnott himself grew up watching the firetruck and Santa deliver lollies and is now part of making that magic happen.

"It's a really rewarding experience to be part of," he said. "Especially in times like this. It's not just kids who love it but adults, too. Everyone seems so excited to see us when we arrive in their street. The reception we get, that's what makes us come back every year."

In addition to delivering cheer, firefighters take the opportunity to deliver fire safety messages and answer questions.

The event is well supported by individuals and businesses in the community, who donate the lollies or cash for firefighters to purchase lollies which are them separated into bags to be handed out during the run.

"We would not be able to do this without the support of local businesses. We really appreciate the support," Mr Arnott said.

The lolly run will begin about 9am on December 19 and wrap up about 8.30pm. The route that Santa and firefighters will make on the day is still being decided.

The route and approximate times will be posted to the Raymond Terrace Fire and Rescue Facebook page as the event draws near.

Santa will visit all major residential areas of Raymond Terrace - Lakeside, the CBD, Riverview, Pommy Hill - and Heatherbrae.

Santa's progress will be live tracked on the Raymond Terrace Fire and Rescue Facebook page on the day.

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