The hospital’s administration officer, and float coordinator, Kate Cusack, said about the win, “we are delighted, we are over the moon, we are just stunned”. 

The hospital also won the award of best dressed premises. 

It had taken months of preparation to design the float to the theme of 150 years since Cloncurry’s foundation, Ms Cusack said. 

“There was lots of planning, lots of blood, sweat and tears. Not tears. Beers,” she said shortly after the winning floats were announced.

“We had a ball tonight.” She was dressed as a nun as part of the float costuming, and had first identified herself as ‘Sister Kate.’ 

The parade began in Station Street, continued up Ramsay, Sheaffe and Scarr Streets to loop around and end at the Cloncurry Recreation Grounds.

The floats were judged before the K & R Contracting Xtreme Bullriding was held. 

St Joseph’s Catholic School won the best school float, while the most outstanding vehicle was considered to be a black and red Falcon. 

Olivers Transport won the best prime mover. 

K & R Contracting owner Kevin Wehrman said “it’s really great to see a lot of people together making the town what it is, together.” 

Mr Wehrman said he was able to sponsor the street parade and the bull ride due to the support of clients Cloncurry Shire Council and Transport and Main Roads. 

“By them supporting us we can support the community,” Mr Wehrman said. “We are in a position to look after the community a bit.” 

It was the first year that the company had sponsored the Xtreme Bull Ride as part of the Merry Muster. Mr Wehrman said the muster was a major event for the town. 

After the floats were judged, Merry Muster announcer Aaron Ryan and committee member Keith Douglas led a minute’s silence in tribute to Cloncurry local, Brent Acton, who passed in tragic circumstances this week. 

“It’s been a tough 24 hours here in Cloncurry, We will keep him here in our thoughts and prayers this weekend,” they said.