Festive fun lifts spirits

Food, activities, and entertainment were enjoyed by residents of all ages at the 2022 Mayor’s Christmas BBQ, at the Kingston Butter Factory (KBF) Cultural Precinct, on Friday, December 2.

The event supported families in need of a helping hand during the festive season.

Free face painting and rides added to the fun while Santa brought gifts for every child.

Mayor Darren Power, who was unable to attend after contracting COVID-19, described the annual Christmas get-together as a proud City of Logan tradition.

“I am delighted we could once again bring our community together to raise the spirits of those who need it most,” Cr Power said.

“While I was very disappointed to miss this year’s barbecue, I sent my best wishes for the season to everyone at the event and across the city.”

Deputy Mayor Natalie Willcocks welcomed attendees on the Mayor’s behalf.

“It was my privilege to share time, food and gifts with our wonderful guests and hopefully we have helped make their Christmas a little brighter,” Cr Willcocks said.

City Lifestyle Chair Councillor Laurie Koranski said residents from across the city attended the barbecue.

“It felt like Christmas really had come early with so many people enjoying themselves, and each other’s company,” Cr Koranski said.

Division 2 Councillor Teresa Lane said it was the residents who gave the greatest gifts on the evening.

“This event was about spreading hope and joy to others, and we all walked away with something special from the time we spent with each other,” Cr Lane said.

Some of Santa’s gifts were donated by the Mt Lindesay Ulysses Branch, following the motorbike club’s annual Twilight Toy Run.

Other gifts will be distributed to more City of Logan families through local charities including Able Australia, Be an Elf, Lighthouse Care and the Logan House Fire Support Network.

Logan City Council staff have also dug deep in support of the annual Salvation Army Christmas Appeal.

Donations of toys, food and other household items were presented to the Salvation Army this morning.

Chief Executive Officer Darren Scott said staff were proud to help spread Christmas cheer.

“The Mayor’s Christmas BBQ and Council’s annual contribution to the Salvation Army are a fitting end to another year of support for our community,” Mr Scott said.

“I hope everyone can enjoy time with family and friends during this special holiday period across the city.”

Free Christmas events planned in the City of Logan include:

Meadowbrook

City of Logan Christmas Carols (Griffith University Logan campus from 2pm on Saturday, December 10): A stage show featuring the Grinch, Rudolph, Frosty the Snowman and a range of talented community performers begins at 3pm. 

Jimboomba

Jimboomba Christmas Brigade (Cusack Lane from 5pm on Friday, December 9): Santa will arrive in Rotary Park, courtesy of the Jimboomba Fire Brigade, for a community party featuring an outdoor movie (starting at 6.30pm), a jumping castle and a petting zoo as well as Christmas arts and crafts. Entry is free, but registrations are essential.

Eagleby

Christmas carols (1 Bishop Street, Eagleby, from 4pm on Friday, December 9): The event includes a free sausage sizzle, games and face painting. Cold drinks will be available for $1. 

Kingston

Christmas market (KBF Cultural Precinct on Saturday, December 10, from 7am to 12pm): Attendees can do Christmas shopping at boutique stalls or sample a variety of cuisines including hot jam donuts, a Hangi or a German sausage. 

Yarrabilba

Christmas carols (Yarrabilba State Secondary College from 6pm on Saturday, December 17): The ‘Winter Wonderland’ event will include giveaways and a Santa visit.