For the past five years, Coolum Hearts annual Christmas Day lunch has helped turn an otherwise lonely day into a memorable occasion for a growing number of less fortunate people in the local area.

And in order to keep that tradition alive, Ninderry MP Dan Purdie is calling on the community to help support the event.

“Since the first event five years ago, where Clive and Barb Holden catered for around 40 people, the event has been growing to a point where they now cater for more than 100,” Mr Purdie said.

With numbers expecting to exceed 110 this year, Mr Purdie said Coolum Hearts have placed donation boxes at a number of local retailers, grateful for the generosity of locals who make the event possible.  

“For most of us, Christmas is all about celebrating with family and friends, but for many, it can be a very lonely and difficult time, and there’s obviously a significant need in the community.

“Every little bit helps, and certainly goes a long way in helping Coolum Hearts host this event,” Mr Purdie said.

“A huge thank you to everyone in the local community who continue to support the wonderful efforts of Coolum Hearts in supporting others in our community who are less fortunate.

“It certainly goes to show just what a big Heart the Coolum community has.”

Donation boxes can be found at Freddy Fudpukkers, Coolum Bowls Club, Coolum Beach Hotel, Dan Murphys, Coolum Hearts (Elizabeth Street), Bank of Queensland Coolum, and the newsagent next to Woolworths (Bean in the News).

For more information about the Christmas Day lunch, check out Coolum Hearts on Facebook.