Following on from last month’s Post with Personality feature, where we celebrated the Bay Islands’ wonderfully inventive letterboxes, we’ve discovered one final story that turns creativity into a living memory.
This time, the spotlight shines on the Hilton family from Macleay Island. Since purchasing their home overlooking the tranquil waters of Perulpa Bay in 2018, Lara and Andrew Hilton, together with their daughter Emily, have become part of the island’s creative fabric.
Their letterbox isn’t just another artistic addition to the streetscape, it’s a labour of love. Built by Andrew as a surprise birthday gift for Lara, with Emily helping to design and paint it, the project became a heartfelt tribute to their much loved family pet, Pepper, who had recently passed away.
“It completely took me by surprise,” said Lara.
“It’s such a beautiful reminder of Pepper, and it fills me with joy every time I check the mail.”
That sense of creativity and connection runs deep across Macleay Island, particularly along Beelong Street where locals have taken a playful approach to naming their properties. From Beelongonwater and Webeelongtoo to Beelongtome, residents have turned a simple street name into a reflection of the island’s humour and individuality.
And now, as the festive season approaches, that same imagination is about to shine even brighter.
