Liberty swing back in action

THANKS to a big push from the Bundaberg community, the Lake Ellen Heritage Hub Liberty Swing is back in action.

THANKS to a big push from the Bundaberg community, the Lake Ellen Heritage Hub Liberty Swing is back in action.

The newly restored swing was launched yesterday morning, two months after it was destroyed by vandals.

More than 10 Bundaberg businesses and a countless number of community members came together to raise the $28,000 needed to have the swing replaced.

Bundaberg Regional councillor Mary Wilkinson said she was extremely pleased to see the swing back in use.

“This is just extraordinary to have it back,” she said.

“It took a lot of hard work and effort.”

Cr Wilkinson said replacing the swing would not have been possible without the community.

“I can’t thank the Bundaberg community enough,” she said.

“All of the businesses and people who put in were just fabulous. Every dollar counted so thank you to everyone.”

Bundaberg Motor Group owners Brad and Karen Solomon were major players in getting the swing replaced, chipping in $14,000.

“It’s just great to see the swing back in action,” Mr Solomon said.

“It’s a great community initiative that someone destroyed and a lot of people have put in a big effort to get it back up and running.”

Bundaberg Special School teacher Annie Buck said she was thrilled that the swing was now available again.

“We bring the children here quite often,” she said.

“It is so special for these kids to be able to be on the swing when they usually wouldn’t get the chance.”

Ms Buck said the swing brought plenty of joy to the children.

“It’s exciting to see it back,” she said.

“It’s a real pleasure to see the look on the children’s faces when they’re on it,” she said.

Funds from the Sunrise Bega competition will go towards increasing security with CCTV cameras and lighting being installed.

Rechenberg Security will also patrol the area no less than six times every night.

Other major contributors included Across The Waves, Brothers Sports Club, Bundaberg Brewed Drinks, The Lighthouse Hotel, the Bundaberg RSL, Bundaberg Wholesale Palms and Plants, Rebels Bike Club, Jack Dempsey and Bill Moorehead.

Originally published as Liberty swing back in action