White winter helps wishes come true, how cool

THE magic of a white winter, ice-skating and falling snow is coming to Noosa Civic these school holidays.
Children will get to experience the magic of a white winter during the school when Noosa Civic launches its school holiday activity this week in a bid to raise funds for Make-A-Wish.
For many, the thought of this experience is inconceivable but a synthetic ice-skating rink and snow machine will give those visiting the shopping centre a simulated winter experience in exchange for a gold coin donation which will go towards granting wishes to very sick children and teenagers.
Centre manager Brian Turner said the centre hoped to make a significant contribution to Make-A-Wish during the two-week period from 27 June to 8 July to help support the wonderful work the charity does to grant wishes to seriously ill children across Australia.
“While sales of hot-water bottles and blankets may go up in the centre at this time of year, Queensland children don’t ever get the opportunity to enjoy the fun side of winter that sub-zero temperatures bring,” Mr Turner said.
“We’re hoping to bring a little taste of true winter fun to the centre to raise funds for those kids who aren’t as lucky. If we can help just one child have their wish granted, we have achieved something wonderful and we’re very proud to be involved with such a great cause.”
Make-A-Wish Sunshine Coast president Daniel Chambers said he was delighted that Noosa Civic was using their school holiday program to raise funds for the charity.
“Wishes are only possible thanks to the wonderful support and generosity of local communities and individuals,” Mr Chambers said.
“The money raised will help another seriously ill child experience the healing power of a wish which cannot be underestimated.”
Make-A-Wish Australia was founded in 1985 and since then has granted over 8000 wishes to children with life-threatening illnesses aged between three and 18.
Wishes recently granted have included a play with a husky dog in the snow for a seven-year old diagnosed with a severe heart condition, a puppy for a teenage girl battling leukaemia, a four-year-old meeting his favourite superheroes and an 11-year-old having a jam-packed trip to Sydney to meet her favourite sports team.
“Noosa Civic has always prided itself in being family-friendly and at any given time the sounds of children laughing and having fun can be heard across the centre. We are grateful that there are organisations such as Make-A-Wish that can change the lives of kids going through terribly difficult times,” Mr Turner said.
“We encourage parents to bring in their kids for some fun in the centre knowing that in doing so they are making a contribution to a wonderful cause.”
The synthetic ice rink and snow machine will be in operation from 10am to 3pm daily between 27 June and 8 July. To find out more please visit www.noosacivicshopping.com.au