Burdekin Residents enjoy free access to Museum of Tropical Queensland, Townsville

Science, Archaeology, Indigenous Cultures and Social History are just some of the topics that Burdekin residents can explore for free under a new Community Pass Agreement between the Museum of Tropical Queensland and Burdekin Shire Council.

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin said the 12-month agreement provides all Burdekin residents with free entry to the Museum and an opportunity to explore what it has to offer.

“Museum of Tropical Queensland is part of the Queensland Museum Network. As the only campus north of Brisbane, Council is really pleased that we have been able to secure free access for all Burdekin residents” Cr McLaughlin said.

“Under the Community Pass Agreement, Burdekin residents can visit the museum year-round at no charge and can participate in fun-filled holiday programs, attend regular talks and enjoy exciting travelling exhibitions.”

Cr McLaughlin said the Museum has a lot to offer across a variety of topics.

“The Museum has temporary exhibitions and displays that change on a regular basis so there’s always something new and exciting to discover.

“For primary and secondary school students, the Museum delivers curriculum-linked education programs and discovery-zones to make learning more exciting.”

Queensland Museum Network CEO Dr Jim Thompson welcomed news of the Burdekin Shire Council’s decision to continue to support access to the Museum for Burdekin locals under a new Community Pass Agreement.

“We want to continue our strong relationship with the Burdekin community and it is exciting that residents will have the freedom to experience the many permanent exhibitions including the famous HMS Pandora gallery and other exhibits that are unique to the tropics.”

Council’s Community Services Manager, Mr David Cornwell, said that the initiative has been in place in various forms for a number of years.

“Council has previously supported half-price admission to the Museum in past years,” Mr Cornwell said.

“Under the new agreement Council has agreed to pay $9,500 (GST exclusive) which has been funded in the 2019/2020 budget.

“The new 12-month agreement allows for entry to all Burdekin residents at no charge.

“Residents will need to produce evidence of residency, either a current driver’s licence or passport with a Burdekin address listed, to take advantage of the agreement.”

More information about the Museum of Tropical Queensland can be found on their website or follow their Facebook page for all the latest news.

Media contact:          Nick O’Connor

Phone:                        (07) 4783 9800