Christmas tree goes up in CBD
Date published: 24 November 2016
The festive season has officially arrived in Townsville’s CBD.
Council staff used a crane and scissor lift this morning to install and decorate the city’s six-metre solar powered Christmas tree in Townsville Bulletin Square.
The tree, the city’s symbol of Christmas cheer, features strings of LED lights and a multi-coloured star.
It will be complemented by fairy lights in two fig trees in Flinders Street, lights and garlands around poles in Townsville Bulletin Square and special waterfall fairy lights and three large lit presents and stars installed on the top of shade structures in front of Perc Tucker Regional gallery and Mary Who? book store.
Forty-four Christmas light motifs have also been installed along Flinders Street.
Divisional councillor Ann-Maree Greaney said the Christmas tree and decorations would bring a festive feeling to the CBD.
“The Christmas tree is a big community favourite and helps create a festive atmosphere for people in the city,” Cr Greaney said.
“This year our Christmas display is better than ever with more lights and structures to give the city a real Christmas feel. We’re also looking at ideas to grow and evolve what we are able to offer in future, working with traders to ensure our city is at the heart of celebrations.
“The festive season offers a great opportunity to support our local businesses and encourage people to come into the CBD whether they’re working, shopping or a visitor from out of town.”
Cr Greaney said the lights would be officially turned on at a Christmas in the City event on Flinders Street and Townsville Bulletin Square on Friday 2 December from 4pm – 8pm.
Mayor Jenny Hill will turn on the lights at 7pm while a special Winter Wonderland featuring Santa and Elsa from Frozen will be open from 5pm – 7pm.
The event will also feature Central Christmas Markets, Hot FM Food Truck Fiesta, free Timmy the Train rides down Flinders Street and live entertainment.
