Fairytales and legends will come to life for sick children and their families, with $6000 worth of new books being donated to Ronald McDonald House Townsville today.

The significant donation is being made by Townsville Airport and its book retailer Relay Bookstore, managed by Lagardère Travel Retail, located inside the terminal.

The donation follows a promotion at the terminal in the lead up to Christmas last year, where Relay and the airport team pledged to donate one book to the charity for every book purchased in the store during the 12-day activation.

Townsville Airport Commercial General Manager Isabelle Yates said she was delighted to present the new books to such an important organisation.

“We are pleased to donate this collection of books to Ronald McDonald House Townsville, which is such a deserving organisation. Our partnership with this community group is one of our longest standing,” she said.

“I’m sure our customers will be pleased to know their decision to purchase a book during our promotion will have along-lasting and positive effect on the more than 400 families who pass through the doors of Ronald McDonald House at Townsville Hospital each year.”

Townsville Airport is committed to supporting the local community and its long-standing partnership with Ronald McDonald House Charities is an example of that commitment.

Lagardère Travel Retail area manager Megan Simpson said the group was excited to work with Townsville Airport in supporting such a good cause.

“We are excited to move into our second year of partnership with Townsville Airport to support the local community and Ronald McDonald House,” she said.

“Our team proudly recognises the important role Ronald McDonald House plays in Townsville and the wider Queensland community.”

Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia Acting Chief Executive Officer Denise Lumsden said the organisation was grateful for the support.

“Families often need to stay with us for two or three months at a time, so we are grateful for this generous donation to help keep young and adult minds active during these extended hospital stays,”she said.

“Our partnership with the Townsville Airport and Lagardère Travel Retail is one we are proud of and it is a privilege to work with organisations that are committed to not only giving back but connecting with community. They have been long-time, passionate supporters of our local programs and we are appreciative of their support.”

As the gateway to North Queensland,Townsville Airport welcomed and farewelled more than 1,630,000 passengers through its gates last financial year. It is currently Australia’s 11th busiest airport and supports 21 groups in the community through the Community Benefit Fund and corporate sponsorship program.