Flood Damage Brings Early End to Magical Christmas at Pine Rivers Park

The 2024 Magical Christmas event at Pine Rivers Park in Strathpine has been forced to close prematurely after flooding caused hundreds of thousands of dollars’ worth of damage to its equipment.


Read: Strathpine Set to Shine as North Brisbane’s Family Entertainment Hub


Created by Ash and Chloe Neuendorf of High Impact Lighting, the event was designed as a space for families to celebrate the wonder of the season. However, severe flooding left organizers with no choice but to cancel the remainder of this year’s sessions.

Photo credit: Magical Christmas/Facebook

In a social media post, the Neuendorfs shared the devastating news:
“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the cancellation of all remaining Magical Christmas events this year due to significant flooding at Pine Rivers Park,” they wrote.

They added, “Magical Christmas was created with love and passion by Ash and Chloe Neuendorf of High Impact Lighting as a space for families to celebrate the wonder of the season. This unexpected turn of events has been devastating for us, but the safety and well-being of our community remain our top priority.”

Organizers have assured ticket holders that full refunds will be issued, including for add-ons. “Some delays may occur due to the Christmas period, and we truly appreciate your patience as we process these refunds,” they said.

Photo credit: Magical Christmas/Facebook

Despite the heartbreak, the Neuendorfs remain committed to their mission of fostering community celebrations. “Though this year didn’t go as planned, we remain committed to bringing people together and creating magical community celebrations. We are already looking ahead to 2025 and can’t wait to share exciting new plans with you then,” they wrote.

The announcement has sparked an outpouring of support, with many expressing gratitude for the dedication and passion behind the event. The team is currently reaching out to ticket holders to provide updates and ensure refunds are processed as quickly as possible.


Read: $50-Million Development to Bring Huge Play Centre to Strathpine


While this year’s ended in disappointment, the Neuendorfs’ determination and the community’s encouragement promise a brighter and even more magical return in the future.

Published 19-December-2024

Eatons Hill Gears Up for 7th Annual Santa Parade and Family Movie Night

Residents of Eatons Hill are eagerly anticipating the 7th Annual Santa Parade and Family Movie Night. Spearheaded by local resident David Williams, this event promises to be a highlight of the holiday season, uniting the community in festive cheer.



Starting at 4:45 pm on Friday, December 15th, the unmistakable sounds of Santa’s sleigh bells and joyful “ho-ho-ho” will echo through the streets. Emergency vehicles will escort Santa along Bunya Park Drive and Saraband Drive, spreading not only merriment but also crucial safety messages for the holiday season.

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Photo Credit: Facebook / Kathy Lake

David Williams, the driving force behind this annual extravaganza, acknowledges the invaluable support of local emergency services, volunteers, and businesses in making this event a success. Their collaboration ensures that each year surpasses the last, leaving a lasting impact on the community.

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Photo Credit: Facebook / Matthew Sames

“The community looks forward to the event each year,” expresses Williams, emphasising the sense of togetherness it fosters among neighbours and friends.

May be an image of 2 people and text that says 'EATONS HILL SANTA PARADE FRIDAY 15 Dec Dec- 4:45 to 6pm (Bunya Park Drive then Saraband Drive) WANTIMA COUNTRY CLUB 5 to 9pm ENTERTAINMENT FOOD TRUCKS- PRIZES FAMILY MOVIE SANTA ARRIVES 6:15pm Gorilla RUSH MAJOR SPONSOR FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR Monoce AUGMENTING Raine&Horne. BUSINESS Eatons HiLL Albany Creek PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY CITY OF MORETON BAY COUNCIL AND LOCAL EMERGENCY SERVICES CITYOF MORETON BAY Unitywater'
Photo Credit: Facebook / Eatons Hill Santa

Adding to the festivities, the Wantima Country Club will host the Family Movie Night, starting from 5pm. Attendees can indulge in entertainment, food trucks, a Christmas movie screening, and an awe-inspiring fireworks display, courtesy of the event’s major sponsor, Gorilla Rush. Santa’s final appearance is expected around 6.15pm, marking the culmination of his tour through the local area.

With over 25 years of experience in organising community events, David Williams underscores the event’s significance in creating cherished memories and reinforcing a spirit of community unity.

The 7th Eatons Hill Annual Santa Parade and Family Movie Night epitomise the essence of the holiday season, combining festive jubilance with vital safety messages, ensuring a delightful experience for all attendees.



Residents are encouraged to stay updated on the event’s details and route via the Eatons Hill Santa Facebook page as the community eagerly awaits this joyous celebration. Mark your calendars for December 15th and join in the festivities, as Eatons Hill comes alive with the magic of the season!

Published 2-December-2023