What’s happening?
The beloved Rockhampton Christmas Wrap, affectionately known as the ‘Rocky Wrappers,’ is back for its 31st year, offering expertly wrapped gifts to raise funds for heart health research.
Located in Stockland Rockhampton, near Robin’s Kitchen and The Reject Shop, the initiative is supported by 45 volunteers and five convenors who will wrap presents of all shapes and sizes, with every dollar donated going to the Heart Foundation.
Why it matters?
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in Australia, with over 18,500 lives lost annually.
The Rocky Wrappers fundraiser not only spreads Christmas joy but also provides critical support for life-saving heart research.
Each gift wrapped helps make a difference, funding innovative projects to prevent and treat cardiovascular disease.
Local Impact
The Rocky Wrappers have become a cherished part of Rockhampton’s festive season.
Since its inception in 1993, the initiative has raised over $300,000 for heart health research, with last year’s efforts contributing more than $24,000.
This year, sponsors have once again covered the costs of materials, ensuring every dollar raised supports the cause.
By the Numbers
- More than 3,000 kilometres of wrapping paper, 10,000 pre-curled ribbons, and 60 rolls of wide sticky tape will be used this season.
- Over $300,000 has been raised for the Heart Foundation over three decades.
- In 2024, the Heart Foundation committed $13.7 million to 66 new research projects across Australia.
Zoom In
Margaret Whitchurch, who has volunteered since the very first Rocky Wrap, encouraged the community to participate:
“We know times are difficult, but in giving to the Heart Foundation, you can also get your presents wrapped professionally, so it’s a win-win. Heart disease is still the single biggest killer in Australia, and we make sure that every penny that is donated goes to the Heart Foundation.”
Another long-time volunteer, Karen Baker, highlighted the flexibility of the service:
“We’ll wrap anything—from Christmas gifts to birthday presents, anniversary surprises, or even Secret Santa gifts. Often, people donate generously because they know it’s for a worthy cause.”
Zoom Out
Heart Foundation Queensland General Manager Sheree Hughes praised the Rocky Wrappers and the Rockhampton community:
“The Christmas season is a time for giving, and a gift toward life-saving heart research can make a lasting impact on people nationwide. Fundraising and donations enable the Heart Foundation to continue the fight against heart disease.”
This year’s efforts align with the Heart Foundation’s broader mission to fund innovative research and provide vital resources like the Heart Age Calculator to assess heart attack and stroke risk.
What to look for next?
Rockhampton locals can visit the Rocky Wrappers at Stockland until Christmas to have their gifts wrapped while supporting a lifesaving cause. Donations can also be made directly to the Heart Foundation at www.heartfoundation.org.au/donate.
Together, Rockhampton and the Rocky Wrappers are helping to make heart disease history, one beautifully wrapped gift at a time.
