Online edition a game-changer for Sports Expo and Sign-on event

Mayor Greg Williamson said the change to a virtual format was due to COVID-19 restrictions and the large size of this event, which attracted about 8000 to the MECC this year.

“A lot of planning goes into staging this expo each year and, with uncertainty caused by the COVID restrictions, organisers have made the call now to stage an online event in 2021,’’ Mayor Williamson said.

“Using an online platform called StoryMaps, anyone interested will be able to view more than 100 sport and recreation options in the Mackay region with just a computer, laptop or mobile device,” he said.

“Sporting clubs and groups will also be able to promote upcoming sign-on days at their own venues via the online portal as an added benefit.

“The StoryMaps web page will include a map of the MECC, and users will be able to click on the virtual booths to find out more about the sporting and recreation clubs and groups they’re interested in.

“The site will be live for the month of February. We’re encouraging clubs and groups that register to be a part of the event to look at staging sign-on or come-and-try days at their venues during the month if possible.”

Mayor Williamson said the interactive StoryMaps site would also include demonstration videos in “active zones”.

“We had two active zones at this year’s expo. We’ll replicate that online by getting some groups in to do demonstrations that we’ll video and post on the page to add to the virtual experience,’’ he said.

“The online experience is shaping up as an exciting one and a new way to help promote clubs and groups in our region.

“It is likely that we’ll continue to offer an online option into the future, even when the sports expo returns to its normal format.”

Registrations are now open for sports and recreation clubs and groups to be part of the online expo. They can register on council's sports expo page.