A safety blitz on Ekka showbags has revealed only one unsafe toy among the 373 bags assessed.
Office of Fair Trading inspectors will continue to monitor product safety during the Royal Queensland Show at the RNA grounds in Brisbane.
It said the initial blitz resulted in a novelty torch with an insecure battery compartment being removed and eight products taken for further investigation.
“Inspectors focused on button batteries, projectile toys, and toys containing magnets as part of the annual checks, to ensure all items meet Australian mandatory safety standards,” the Queensland Government said in a statement.
“Button batteries pose a significant risk to young children if swallowed or inserted, and all products must have child resistant battery compartments to prevent children from accessing them.”
Attorney-General Deb Frecklington thanked Ekka vendors and showbag suppliers for their commitment to product safety.
“I was pleased to see only one non-compliant item identified, with the supplier acting immediately to rectify the issue,” she said.
“Ekka vendors and showbag suppliers do a great job ensuring the safety of Queensland families enjoying the show.”
The Ekka previously announced that there would be 93 new showbags at this year’s show. A complete list can be found at www.ekka.com.au.
Showbags start at $4 and the new bags include:
- Stranger Things
- Vegemite
- The Mandalorian – Grogu
- F1
- Kit Kat
- Onikuma
- Minnie Mouse
- Mickey Mouse
- Allen’s Ultimate Carry All
- Ovaltine
- Hersheys and Reese’s
- ACDC
- Premier
- League Showbags
Six showbags are priced at $5, 81 at $10 or less and 150 priced at $20 or under.
Queenslanders concerned about unsafe products should contact the OFT on 13 QGOV (13 74 68) or at www.qld.gov.au/fairtrading.
