Bundaberg Regional Council has fitted three new shade sails during June before the school holidays, with two additional parks to be covered before the end of July.
Completed shade sail parks include Stehbens Park in Kepnock, Houston Drive Park in Avoca and Hinkler Lions Tourist Park Branyan, with Watch Bell Street Park at Innes Park and The Strand West Park Thabeban to be completed as per schedule.
The work is part of the Council’s Parks and Open Space Strategy 2019 – 2026 to complement the new play equipment installed this financial year with local business Planet Shade completing the construction of the new shade sails.
Planet Shade managing director Andrew McInnes said they were involved in the design, engineering, fabrication and installation of the new shade sails, and it was a pleasure to use locals to complete the projects.
“We are using local suppliers and contractors, employing local people and putting money back into stimulating our local economy,” Andrew said.
“We really enjoy seeing local families appreciating the work we create and produce.”
Andrew said they installed large single shade sails over the playgrounds in each park, with consideration given to the direction of the sun, providing shade during the hottest parts of the day, maximising shade and UV protection, while ensuring clearance around and above the play equipment, for safety.
“We would like to thank Bundaberg Regional Council for giving us the opportunity to provide our products which benefit the community,” Andrew said.
As part of Council’s Parks and Open Space Strategy 2019 – 2026, 85 per cent of people surveyed indicated the importance for parks being safe and welcoming, including the provision of shade.
The Council’s Parks Planning team is now scheduling the next round of parks to receive shade in their annual program.
Bundaberg Regional Council’s Parks and Gardens portfolio spokesperson, Cr Wayne Honor, said it is important to maintain a network of quality parks and open spaces that promote community health, safety and wellbeing.
“We use natural shade where possible, but this is not always practical,” Cr Honor said.
“We want to ensure sun safe play areas”.
“Shade sails provide much needed ultraviolet protection benefiting park users with a cooler and comfortable climate to play under.
“Our community loves participating in outdoor activities with council being proactive in supplying the high UV index protection these shade sails provide from sun rays.
“This ensures that playgrounds can be enjoyed all year round.”
Cr May Mitchell said Kepnock residents will be happy to see shade sails installed.
“Residents around Stehbens Park were happy with the new play equipment when it was installed and will now be delighted that shade sails mean children can enjoy the park in all seasons,” Cr Mitchell said.
- Earlier report: New shade sails at Burnett Heads, Innes Park
