COLOURFUL masks added to the gaiety for 125 people at the Friends of MECC Christmas Party.

Therese Dhu was the winner of the Jack Shaw Memorial Award, presented by Jack's widow Betty Shaw. The award is for outstanding service to the Friends organisation, which provides volunteers to help run the MECC.

"Many Friends received prizes on the night for voluntary work they do at the Theatre,” Friends president Colleen Farry said.

"Some of these prizes included vouchers from Porters Mitre 10, belly dancing lessons, wine, chocolates, double passes to shows at MECC, handmade pens and Platypus Dive lessons,” she said.

"As people walked in they were greeted by colourful belly dancers who mingled with people until dinner was served.

"We were entertained by the talented band of Hot Hot Hot who played music for all ages.

"The raffle for CQ Rescue raised about $450.”

Special guests included Mayor Greg Williamson and his wife Annette, and Friends patron Barry Porter and wife Sue.