General News
22 November, 2025
Santa’s tropical arrival
SMITHFIELD Shopping Centre is launching Christmas with a vibrant Far North Queensland twist as Santa’s ‘Tropical Express’ rolled into the centre last Saturday.
Fifty lucky local children enjoyed what many described as the best Santa experience of their lives as they boarded Santa’s decorated double-decker open-top bus from designated Tropical Express stops at Yorkeys Knob, Trinity Beach, and Kewarra Beach.
The exclusive experience gave families an unforgettable start to the festive season, with children singing Christmas classics, waving to locals along the route and enjoying magical moments with Santa himself.
Marketing manager Jodie Scurrah said the event exceeded expectations and brought the community together in a uniquely local way.
“Seeing the joy on the children’s faces as they stepped off Santa’s Tropical Express was truly magical. The atmosphere as the crowds welcomed Santa to his new tropical home was incredible. It was the perfect way to launch Christmas, North Queensland-style.”
The event marked the official opening of Santa’s Tropical Grotto, an immersive North Queensland–inspired Christmas photo experience.
