Workers and machinery have been busy completing improvements to the Cloncurry Equestrian Centre ahead of local equestrian events.
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An extension of the spectator area near the rodeo arena, was designed by the Curry Merry Muster Festival committee and funded by the Cloncurry Shire Council.
The $100,000 project has transformed the spectators hill into a multi-level seating area to enhance viewing of local events.
Curry Merry Muster Festival president Janessa Bidgood said the stepped design and raised viewing platform were chosen to best utilise the space.
"This allows enough spacing to sit the existing grandstands on and also provide adequate room for spectators to bring their own chairs or picnic blankets," Ms Bidgood said.
"The viewing platform is for maximum viewing, which we plan to use for our sponsors area this year."
Ms Bidgood said spectator comfort was a committee priority especially having three consecutive days of rodeo action.
"We want patrons to be comfortable and we want to maximise the space so we can fit more people in," she said.
Ms Bidgood said the Curry Merry Muster committee proposed the upgrade at a user group meeting, after having several discussions in recent years.
"We came up with a design concept and measurements to suit the grandstands and run it past everyone," she said.
"We then proceeded to try and get a grant through Building Better Regions, but we were unsuccessful so we approached council and they have kindly funded the project.
"It has been fantastic as we will use these improvements at this year's rodeo in August."
"We want to thank council for completing our wishes because it is something that will affect Cloncurry long-term and make local events better."
Ms Bidgood said the Curry Merry Muster committee would continue to lobby for funding for further upgrades.
"In our original design we wanted to see an extension of the existing shed out to the arena fence creating a more shaded seating area," she said.
"This isn't something we are going to drop we will keep chasing funding for this to happen by next year's rodeo."
Disclaimer: North West Star senior journalist Samantha Walton is a committee member of the Curry Merry Muster Festival.
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Samantha Campbell
Samantha Campbell (nee Walton) has worked for regional and rural publications across New South Wales, Queensland and the Northern Territory. She is currently writing for the North Queensland Register based in North West Queensland. Email: samantha.campbell@austcommunitymedia.com.au
Samantha Campbell (nee Walton) has worked for regional and rural publications across New South Wales, Queensland and the Northern Territory. She is currently writing for the North Queensland Register based in North West Queensland. Email: samantha.campbell@austcommunitymedia.com.au
