During my recent trip to Cooktown, I was surprised to see the vast array of local people and the differing cultures that reside in such a small town, but also work and play side by side.
There are two reasons that prompted me to write this article; the first which gave me the greatest pleasure is seeing the looks on the children’s faces as they waited for Santa. The second is to admire and congratulate the Cooktown Shire Council, which I’ll explain soon.
When I arrived at the local swimming pool, I was amazed at the number of mums, dads and kids in the pool or merely resting on the grass area surrounding it. As usual all the kids heard the siren of Cooktown Fire Brigade’s trucks bringing Santa. You see, the reindeer were having a rest away from the heat of the day.
As the jolly man settled himself in the shade; presents were distributed to children who had been good all year. Then it was time for Santa to cut this huge cake; because then he had to leave to finish getting ready for his big job on Christmas Eve.
Lastly it’s to send a huge hooray to the Mayor and councillors of the Cooktown Shire Council. These few hours of fun couldn’t be held without their financial support but also being there to cook sausages, hand out drinks, fruit and cake.
I had the pleasure to meet Mayor Peter Scott and his wonderful band of helpers who took a few minutes off serving food to tell me the history behind this day; including the work that goes on to make this extraordinary occasion so special every year.
So as I make tracks, I wish the people of Cooktown and CFA members across the state a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Author: Wendy Cormack