Thousands turn out for Family Expo event

WHAT a wonderful success the Forde Family Expo proved to be.

After a lot of stressing over how the day would transpire, the fact there was so much love and support on the day was a big sigh of relief said Member for Forde, Bert van Manen.

“Though there was a chill in the air, we couldn’t have asked for better conditions,” he said.

“However, the brave staff from Ray White Beenleigh who were in and out of the icy waters of the dunk tank might’ve wished for a bit more warmth.

“Firstly, I want to give thanks to the wonderful community of Forde for turning out to support the event.

“So, so many of you came up to me throughout the day to say thanks for putting on the event. Your gratitude and appreciation was reciprocated.

“To see so many roll through the gates, see so many happy faces, it made it all worthwhile.”

With times as tough as they are, Mr van Manen said he wanted to do a little something to give back.

“You don’t get a lot for free these days, but we wanted to ensure that our event wasn’t financially out of reach for anyone in our region,” he said.

“Without the support of our incredible sponsors, Saturday wouldn’t have been feasible.

“I want to begin by giving a massive thanks to our partner organisation, Junior Quota. Not only did they run their teddy bear parade, but they were a big help in getting the event off the ground.

“As well as them, a special mention and a huge thank you to our platinum sponsor Ray White Beenleigh.

“My sincere thank you to Club Beenleigh and Bank of Queensland Beenleigh as well.

“I want to also thank Honour Early Learning, Maccas Logan, Best Wilson Buckley Family Law, Beenleigh Marketplace, Home Realty Group and all the stallholders for lending their support.

“A thanks as well to the Beenleigh Show Society for your backing and allowing us to utilise the showgrounds.

“Finally, a thanks to my staff. It was a big undertaking to get this event happening now for a second year running so I want to thank them for all their hard work.

“Should there be a community desire for it, we’ll see you back at the showgrounds in 2025,” he said.

Keep an eye on my Facebook and Instagram pages to see heaps more photos from the day.