Backyard Improvement Program 2023

Initiating its annual cycle in June, the competition saw the submissions total of 31 applications this year, including 7 from educational facilities. This noteworthy participation reflects the enduring interest and engagement in the program, which has now been running successfully for the past 12 years.

This year, we were presented with a collection of exceptionally impressive entries. All families invested substantial effort in working towards achieving their outcomes they desired. Most of the entries, had bare soil areas in their front or back yard from the very beginning. Observing the favorable changes executed in the yards at the conclusion of the competition is genuinely inspiring. It was wonderful to see the changes made possible to the yards at the end of the competition.

Six external judges were selected to assess the before-and-after photos highlighting all of the improvements made during the programs duration. The feedback we received suggested that this year’s competition presented one of the most demanding decisions in determining the 4 categories.

The inception of the Backyard Improvement Program aimed to inspire residents of Mount Isa with young families to cultivate lead-safe and water-efficient gardens/backyards for the enjoyment of children and families. The primary objective for participating families was to diminish bare soil areas in accessible yards or gardens, contributing to a reduction in the risk of elevated blood lead levels in children. The positive changes implemented through this program are anticipated to play a crucial role in fostering a healthier and safer environment for the community.

All Rounder Gardener:– Complete backyard makeover consisting of a minimum  two of the minor categories.

Tavis & Justine Cameron

Go Green Lawn:- Convert bare soils into a well-covered and maintained lawn area.

Derick & Dianne Knudson

Traditional Garden:- Create and maintain a mulched garden bed with flowers and shrubs.

Chloe & Bradley Luke

Edible Garden:- Create and maintain of a mulched herb or vegetable garden.

Alecia Wandel

Prizes:

All Rounder Gardener: The Mystery Holiday package comprises a three-night stay in a family villa at the esteemed BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Townsville. Additionally, the package includes a $500 Visa Debit Card, a $100 Woolworths Debit Card, and 2 adults and 3 children $140.00 Family Pass to the Billabong Sanctuary, complete with a basket of holiday goodies. This experience will ensure a delightful blend of comfortable accommodation for an unforgettable family getaway.

Go Green Lawn: Victa 18” Super Mulcher Petrol Lawn Mower, Victor Swift Straight Split Shaft Timmer & Wheelbarrow

Traditional Garden: Webber Q2000 + 8 Piece Tool Kit + $50 Meat voucher

Edible Garden:  $200 Rose Garden Nursery Voucher

We extend our sincere gratitude to our sponsors: The Rose Garden Nursery, Bunnings Mount Isa, and Mob FM. Additionally, we would like to express our appreciation to the Lead Alliance funders, namely Mount Isa City Council, Glencore Queensland Metals, North West Hospital and Health Service, and the Queensland Government. Your generous support is instrumental in the success of our program, and we are truly thankful for your commitment to the Lead Alliance.

Promoting “Living Safely with Lead” we extend our appreciation to all participants for their commitment to excellence and their significant contributions to making this competition a resounding success.