City’s littlest locals welcomed at popular Riverway ceremony

Townsville’s newest residents were celebrated on the weekend, with over a hundred families gathering at Riverway for Council’s Welcoming Babies Ceremony.

Held at Raintree Grove on Saturday 16 May, the popular event saw three fully booked sessions held throughout the morning, with proud parents and carers turning out to officially introduce their little ones.

Mayor Nick Dametto said he was honoured to welcome 106 babies to the community in his first time officiating the Welcoming Babies Ceremony as Mayor of Townsville.

“It was a privilege to be part of this long-standing Townsville tradition and share in such a special moment and memory in the lives of our littlest locals and their families,” Cr Dametto said.

“Hearing all the names and seeing the little faces who will make up the fabric of Townsville’s future was something really meaningful and joyous.”

Four-month-old Henry was the first baby to be officially welcomed to the city on Saturday, supported by three generations of proud family members.

“Henry’s my first baby and it’s going great – he’s an absolute blessing,” said new mum Timeka Bodsworth.

“This means a lot, it’s really great to have the whole family here and to see four generations spending time together.

“It’s great for community connection, you get to see so many other parents and know there are others out there, so you don’t feel so alone.”

Division 10 councillor, Brady Ellis was on the mic as master of ceremonies, putting his former radio talent to the test and making everyone feel welcome.

While each family received a personalised certificate to commemorate the occasion, along with a native plant and a gift bag filled with practical baby items.

Councillor Dametto said the ceremony was not only about welcoming babies to Townsville, but also about celebrating the strength and growth of our community.

“The Welcoming Babies Ceremony has been connecting Townsville families for more than 20 years,” he said.

“Again, we saw brand new parents proudly introducing their first-borns, all the way through to growing families returning to celebrate their fourth or fifth babies.

“I’m proud to lead a council that provides so many resources, initiatives and events to help parents raise, entertain and care for their children.

“From programs in our libraries and Riverway Movie nights, to Messy Play in the park and Carols by candlelight – Council is invested in families.”

The Welcoming Babies Ceremony is held twice each year and continues to be one of Council’s most popular community events, with registrations typically filling quickly. To express interest for the next ceremony held in October, join the expression of interest list.