August 16, 2019
South Burnett Regional Council is considering buying an inflatable sound shell that could be hired by community groups.
Cr Roz Frohloff told Thursday night’s meeting of the Nanango Tourism and Development Association the idea came about when Council officers began to look at refurbishing some sections of Pioneer Park to prepare for this year’s Nanango Christmas Carnival.
Inflatable shells were developed more than a decade ago as an inexpensive replacement for traditional brick and mortar sound shells.
They are made of strong vinyl and can be inflated in about 10 minutes using an air blower.
They can also be secured to a site with tent pegs, enabling them to withstand winds up to 50km/h.
Shells enhance sound by between 1-4 decibels, which is equivalent to doubling the sound level of performers.
They also provide shelter for performers during sudden rain – an important safety consideration when using electrical equipment.
Deflated shells are easy to transport and can be moved from one location to another in a car.
Cr Frohloff said the Council was evaluating options and prices.
However she was confident an inflatable shell would be seen at this year’s Nanango Christmas Carnival, even if it was only hired for the occasion.
If Council bought one, Cr Frohloff believed community groups would be able to hire it for a small fee to use at their own events.
This would save ratepayers the cost of constructing more stages in the region’s major public parks but enhance many community events at little cost to event organisers.
What a great idea. Permanent structures are good but this is a much more cost-effective move.