Presents, fun and family at Boggabri Coal Christmas parties

Christmas cheer has certainly made its way into the air and those who were lucky enough to be at the Boggabri – Idemitsu Christmas Parties must have felt it tenfold.

The parties are some of the most well known around and had an anticipated 1200 – 1300 people over two Saturdays joining in at Riverside Race Course.

The parties were open to all workers at Boggabri Coal, whether they be employed through the business or as contractors which totals about 850.

Not only were employees and families rewarded to live music with food and drinks for a year’s job well done, but it also delivered bundles of fun for the little ones.

Water slides, hair braiding, facepainting, a dunk tank, balloon animals, pony rides, along with a visit from Bluey and her friends seemed like just the beginning of all the fun.

With smaller touches like candy cane mounds to stock up on and photo backdrops to pose with, the atmosphere would have made anyone feel jolly.

No one could, however, outshine the man everyone was waiting for. Santa made his arrival with fitting equipment to trot onto the racecourse setting.

He traded his reindeer for a pony and his sleigh for a more appropriate cart, guiding him toward the Christmas cheer.

Children eagerly gathered around the man in red to collect presents and witness him in person.

It was all seemingly made possible by the magic of Christmas but there were indeed people to be thanked.

Boggabri Coal general manager Stewart Dunlop thanked Sonya Pym for organising the event along with everyone who made the day special.

“It’s a good day for the children,” he said.

“Thank you to everyone who came out.

“It’s a family day, I am so happy they could all come and enjoy it, be part of it.”

Further thanks was given to the vendors, many of which were based in the Boggabri and Gunnedah area.

Those who posted a family photo in front of a backdrop had Katie Allgayer to thank for it as she dealt with all things decor. She thanked Boggabri Coal for the support.

“[This] support has helped us grow and take over the Stix n Stonez Emporium Store, keeping it alive for our community,” she said.

Similarly the Boggabri Post Office was involved by sourcing the Christmas gifts. Jason, Kathy and Cloe Davis said it was a joy to be a part of the event and seeing the smiles on the children’s faces when Santa stopped by.