More than 200 pairs scissors seized by security at Mackay Airport will soon be put to good use at two local primary schools.

The Mackay Port Authority has donated the scissors and 250 nail files to the Slade Point and Central State schools.

Slade Point State School principal Peter Mandryk, Mackay Port Authority chairman John Taylor and Central State School principal Christine Wilson, display some of the scissors donated to the two schools.

The scissors and nail files are among hundreds of prohibited items surrendered by passengers at the security check point at the airport departure lounge each year.

Items such as knives, letter openers, scissors, nail files, needles and razor blades are not permitted in carry on luggage. The airlines provide passengers with a comprehensive list of prohibited items.

Mackay Port Authority chairman John Taylor said the schools have welcomed the scissors and nail files with open arms.

The scissors will be thoroughly cleaned and sterilized before finding their way into classrooms.

“It’s great the schools can use them – rather than us tossing them out,” Mr Taylor said.

Slade Point State School principal Peter Mandryk said the schools had a couple of creative ideas for the nail files.

“A number of mums will be very happy come May,” he said.

Mr Taylor said the items would be donated to different schools each year.