Bay Islands.

CHRISTMAS CHEER ACROSS THE ISLANDS

There’s plenty of great Christmas shopping to be done around the islands this December! From local markets to our island stores, you’ll find everything you need for the festive season close to home. As you enjoy the hustle and bustle of Christmas, remember to be kind and patient with your fellow islanders and our hardworking retail staff, it’s the season for smiles and goodwill.

ALIEN CATS CONQUER MACLEAY  Word on the island? Kim Downs just unleashed alien cats on the world via story, and it was glorious chaos. Sculptor, musician, and accidental comedy legend, Kim’s story had the room in stitches imagining our feline overlords. 29 writers entered Art My Word, multi award winning author, Melissa Ashley picked the winners and Kim’s absurd, relatable, laugh out loud vision stole the show.  And then came internationally acclaimed writer, Sarah A. Parker, dropping life truths: “Do what you love. Stay true to yourself.” Hot tip: the full storybook is chilling at MIAC. Grab it before the cats do. By Cindy Jensen

STRADBROKE ISLAND BUS SERVICES ARE GETTING A MAKEOVER!  From 1st December, locals and tourists can hop aboard new and improved services linking Dunwich, Amity Point and Point Lookout.  A new stop is also being added at Quandamooka Arts and Culture Centre for those craving creativity with their commute. Route 881 now rolls straight from One Mile Ferry to Amity (no more roadside swaps at Beehive Road and East Coast Road), while route 880 is adding earlier, later and extra holiday runs. More buses, better ferry links, and still just 50 cents a ride.  Straddie’s transport scene is officially on the move. Beach towels optional, good times guaranteed.

BAY ISLANDS STAR SHINES IN FRANCE!  Last month, OJ Rushton swapped mangroves for baguettes, flying to France as part of the On Country, For Country - Voices of Remembrance tour. The Co-Founder of The OZY Youth Choir Honouring Defence Service wowed audiences, connecting stories of those who died for Country and on Country. Before leaving, she stole the show at La Perouse, reciting The Ode, performing The Last Post and The Rouse, and leading both the French and Australian National Anthems for veterans and dignitaries. From local choir to Flanders fields, OJ proved that big dreams and small islands, can make a global impact.

ISLAND BEANS ON RUSSELL ISLAND isn’t just serving up caffeine hits, it’s a little hub of local mischief. Bella Curlew and Mandy Pearson have created one-of-a-kind gift cards, $5 cash, perfect for pretending you’re fancy. But the real gossip? Rosie’s gone full wildlife whisperer, selling mealworms, the only proper snack for curlews and native birds. Mince and bread? Total junk food. Swing by The Farm, sip something hot, snag an epic card, and maybe feed a curlew while you’re at it.