John Breen Park set to Par-tay for Child Protection Week event  

Published on 29 August 2024

Three face painters, two glitter tattoo artists, three jumping castles, roaming entertainment from Sensory Circus, a petting zoo and a hair braider - now that's a recipe for a party in a park!

Party in the Park, which celebrates and raises awareness of Child Protection Week each year, will be held from 9am to 11.30am in John Breen Park, Malcomson Street, North Mackay, on Wednesday, September 4.

Mayor Greg Williamson said families could connect with playgroups and children’s service providers in a fun and relaxed environment with stacks of free entertainment and activities.

“This is a free morning that highlights the tremendous children’s services and organisations Mackay has to offer for children aged up to six,” Mayor Williamson said.

“This terrific event is an initiative of council’s Community Programs team and the Mackay Family Support Alliance that aims to support families and children’s safety initiatives,” he said.

“Dozens of service providers have stalls at the event and they offer fun, interactive activities and displays.

“It makes for a family-friendly morning out and is a great way for young families to network, socialise and find out what support is available to them.

“I’d encourage everyone with young children, including carers and grandparents, to bring them along, get their faces painted, enjoy the free entertainment and have some fun.”

Mackay Family Support Alliance member Christie Pearson from The Neighbourhood Hub said it was important to promote Child Protection Week.

“The theme of Child Protection Week, which runs from September 1 to 7, is ‘protecting children is everybody’s business’,” Ms Pearson said.

“Events like this are an opportunity to promote the value of children and highlight services and networks that support parents through what can be a very stressful time of life,” she said.

“There’s an old saying that raising a child takes a village, and events like this are a great way for new parents to make connections and find networks that become that village.”

For more information on the event, follow Party in the Park on Facebook.

Image: Sofia and Laura Lombardozzi at the 2023 Party in the Park.