Sunset viewers at Paynes Prairie getting younger
King heard about Paynes Prairie for the first time in 2017, though she says the sunset-watchers were mostly older people back then. Now, she says, most are students.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, the area has become even more popular.
Students itching to spend more time outside while staying safe have flocked to Paynes Prairie, with many sitting on the roofs of their cars while they watch the golden-pink sun dip below the horizon.
“You’re really spaced out,” said freshman microbiology major Amy Fagan. “The sunsets are really pretty, and this is one of the best places to watch that. It’s a nice break from campus and studying.”
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Subscriber only Benjamin Schembri s stellar showing with bat and ball is the silver lining from a disappointing loss to FNQ on day one of the U15 North Queensland Championships at Harrup Park this afternoon. The Pioneer Valley all-rounder was joint top-scorer for Mackay Whitsundays in an eight-wicket loss to a quality FNQ outfit. Coming in at seven, Schembri blasted 38 off 46, including six fours, to tie opener Joel McFarlane s total and help push the hosts total out to 180. Schembri was then the pick of the bowlers, particularly early in the second innings, with tight lines and smart fields keeping the FNQ openers under wraps.