Buzz in Bowen

It’s been an exciting and busy week in Bowen with the anticipated rocket launch, the start of the Grey Nomad season and some of the winter crops now in full swing.

The crew from ABC Radio broadcasted live on Wednesday from the Big Mango and then live from; 360 on the Hill' in Bowen on Thursday, speaking to various businesspeople and community reps.

They also visited Bowen State School, talking to the kids about the rocket launch and what they had been learning about space.

Presenter Susan Graham-Ryan said it was a great week to be in Bowen.

“Our show is broadcast across all areas of regional Queensland, meaning Bowen was certainly in the spotlight.”

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy told listeners that there had been a lot of excitement in the town and the entire region about the Gilmour Space Rocket Launch.

“We have certainly seen an increase in the number of visitors this week,” she said.

“It is also the start of our traditional grey nomad season, so the numbers have been steadily increasing since the beginning of May.

“In April, we welcomed more than 4500 visitors to the Bowen Visitor Information Centre next to the Big Mango – a 6% increase on last year.”

CEO of Bowen Gumlu Growers Association (BGGA), Jenn Honnery spoke on the ABC about the winter crops including tomatoes, capsicums, beans, corn and zucchinis.

She said the wet start to the year had caused some delays, but most growers were now on track and looking forward to the harvest starting soon.

Jenn also said the growers’ association had been working with local schools, encouraging primary students to eat more fruit and veg.

Contributed with thanks to Bowen Tourism & Business

ABC presenter Susan Graham-Ryan with Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy at the Big Mango. Photo supplied