CHRISTMAS IN PROSERPINE DRAWS LARGE CROWD

(An extract from “Proserpine Guardian” Thursday 31 December 1953)
Christmas 1953 can be regarded as one of the brightest and happiest ever held. This was not unexpected because of the splendid season the district has enjoyed. Money was plentiful as a result, and everyone set about having a good time. The extent of the season can be gauged from the fact that the mill expects to crush 385,000 tons of sugar cane - the previous best was about 257,000 tons in 1950.
Despite the excessive heat, Proserpine's Main Street was packed to capacity when the usual huge crowd of Christmas well-wishers and last-minute shoppers crowded the shops and footpaths. It was a gay crowd filled with the spirit of Christmas-tide - a crowd that appears to increase each year, and one in which it was impossible to seek out a friend unless one was very lucky. Christmas Eve usually provides plenty of entertainment for children, and this year was no exception. The youngsters were about in their hundreds, mingling with the adults, gazing with longing eyes at the many articles displayed in windows, while the elder members of the families moved about the shops making purchases for Mum and Dad.
The absence of sand crackers must have been a great disappointment to most of them, but it was a happy relief to passers-by who found they could stroll about without the fear of a sand-cracker popping off at their feet.
Shops all boasted brilliant illuminations, prettily decorated windows and neon signs presented a scene equal to the best in country centres outside the city.
Parking space was at a premium, and owners early to position were lucky. No one attempted to change their position until it was time to go home.
ENTERTAINMENT
The local sub-branch of the RSSAILA held a dance in the Diggers' Hall on Christmas Eve. There was large attendance and everyone spent an enjoyable time. Music was provided by "Smiler" Webber's orchestra. Novelties were popular. Mr. Alf. Casey was M.C. Messrs. Fred Rogers, A. Penhallurick, A. Cooke, W. Clarke and Peter Bates assisted. Talkie fans were not disappointed with the splendid programmes arranged by the proprietor, Mr. W. J. Ironside. Because of the warm night, cafes and hotels received full patronage and record sales are reported.
When business houses closed there was a general exodus of workers and shoppers to entertainments in the town or private parties at homes. The usual calls were made at homes of friends for Christmas cheer, and many did not reach home until the wee small hours.
CHURCH SERVICES
Rev. A. H. Lambton (Bowen) came to Proserpine and conducted Christmas services in St. Paul's Church of England on Sunday, 20th December. … Masses were said at St Catherine’s Church on Christmas Eve and Christmas morning. Masses were also held at Cannonvale and Hàyman Island during day. The celebrants were Rev. Fathers J P McCoy and V. V. Ashwood.
SPORTS AND ISLAND VISITS POPULAR
Sports programmes were held at Cannonvale and Midgeton on Boxing Day and they were well patronised. Many people visited other centres, the island resorts of Whitsunday Group and popular camping spots, while others remained in the peaceful surroundings of their homes. Generally, a gay spirit pervaded the Christmas festivities which were marked by their freedom from serious accident.
During the present year, we saw the cease-fire on the Korean front. This removed a shadow from the homes of many Australian families. … Unfortunately, there are trouble spots in other centres in the world, and we can only hope that those responsible will eventually see the “light" and return to normal peaceful days. (Some things never change!)
Story courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum.

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RSL Christmas c 1951. Photo courtesy Olive Hughes

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