New playground to bring laughter and joy to families in Mount Alford

Councillor Marshall Chalk and Councillor Duncan McInnes met with Mt Alford State School principal Danny Laegel and students for the unveiling of Bowman Park.

Children from Mount Alford have a upgraded space to run around in, where they can use their imaginations to the fullest following the completion of a new upgraded playground at Bowman Park. 

The upgrade commenced in June and received funding of $142,00 from the Australian Government through the Drought Communities Program (DCP) Extension.  

Federal Member for Wright Scott Buchholz said the opening of the playground was a joyous occasion, given many of the hardships the community has had to endure in recent years.  

“This new playground is great news for the community in Mount Alford, with upgraded play facilities and a family friendly area now complete,” he said.  

“The impact of drought is felt on and off farm, it impacts on the local economy and community well-being, so this project will continue to provide an enjoyable area and benefit our community over the longer term.  

“As the Federal Member, I have heard how hard farming communities like Mount Alford have suffered in the drought, that’s why I advocated in Canberra and delivered locally, so the extension of the Drought Communities Program has provided funding in the Scenic Rim to build projects like this one. 

“We know droughts come and go, so ensuring we have facilities such as Bowman Park to give families a break and attract visitors is a wonderful outcome. 

“I look forward to local families and visitors coming out and using this new playground and supporting businesses in the region.” 

Scenic Rim Mayor Greg Christensen said the updated playground would bring much joy to families for years to come.  

"This upgrade was part of Council's ongoing commitment to developing vibrant towns and supports our Playground Strategy," he said.  

"Playgrounds are important places in our local communities not only because they are a place where families and friends gather for special occasions like birthday parties and picnics, but they are also a great place where new friendships can be made. 

"I am extremely pleased we were able to help deliver this project with the assistance of the Australian Government so the children of today and the future will be able to enjoy this playground for many years to come."  

Upgrades to the playground include a shade sail, a one-of-a-kind play space with a custom tower, three-dimensional yard net and balance links for agile play, sensory play panels and a springer for younger children. 

There is also a three-bay swing with a toddler seat, classic swing seat and a bird's nest seat. The height of the bird's nest seat allows for easy transfer from a wheelchair or walker and users can choose to sit, lie or stand on the swing seat. 

The playground also pays tribute to students from Mount Alford State School, who designed their own matching game using pictures they had drawn of outdoor activities in the Scenic Rim. They matched these with medallions of those activities that are hidden throughout the park for children to find. 

In addition, the park also features new signage with information about the Mount Alford State School and the Scenic Rim written by student