The Backyard Improvement Program continues to grow from strength to strength, with 2019 being the most successful in recent years.
The program launched on 15th of April 2019, with an increase in entries on the previous year. Upon entering the program, all families were supplied with; a box of grass seeds, fertiliser, vegetable seedlings and a voucher for the Mount Isa Home and Garden Centre to contribute to yard improvements.
Entrants were given over 4 months to make improvements on their yards. Winners were chosen by members of the Mount Isa Lead Reference Group based on their before and after photos which were submitted.
This year, we received some outstanding entries. All families worked very hard to achieve the outcomes they desired. Most entries, had bare soil areas in their front or back yard from the very beginning. It is wonderful to see the changes made possible to the yards at the end of the competition.
Of note, were some inspiring success stories relating to the overall improvement of health for Mount Isa families. One family had obtained blood lead level testing for their children at the commencement of the competition. The reading indicated a blood lead level of 6 for one of their children, which was a key motivator to work on covering the bare soil areas in their backyard. At the end of the program, the family notified the Lead Alliance of their child’s blood lead level which has since halved! The family attribute the Lead Alliance and entering the program towards the improvement of their child’s health.
The Lead Alliance would like to thank the following sponsors for making this program possible: Adels Grove, Mount Isa Home & Garden Centre, Bunnings Mount Isa, The North West Star, Queensland Government, Mount Isa City Council and Glencore. Without your ongoing support, the program would not be as successful as it is today and we value your commitment and support of the program.
Stay tuned for an even bigger program coming your way in 2020!
