On Monday 26th January the Whitsundays welcomed 45 new citizens in the Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony held at Bowen PCYC.

The 45 new citizens, were from 12 different countries including Philappines, El Salvador, United Kingdom, Ukraine, Germany, New Zealand, Scotland, South Africa, Thailand, Wales, Cambodia and Netherlands.

The ceremony was in good attendance with family, friends and important figures in attendance. Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP, Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP, Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins, Deputy Mayor Michelle Wright, Councillor Jan Clifford, Councillor Clay Bauman, Councillor John Collins, Councillor John Finlay and Juru Elder Trevor Prior.

Mayor Collins, said it was a pleasure to congratulate each citizen on this milestone in their lives.

"This is not just a legal step, but a heartfelt commitment to the values and freedoms that define our country," he said.

"Australian citizenship is about embracing the responsibilities that come with it—following our laws, participating in our democratic processes through voting and standing ready to protect our country if needed. But it’s also about the incredible rights you gain—the freedom to celebrate your culture, express your beliefs and contribute to a society that values the rich diversity of all its people."

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Photo credit: Stories in Light

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Police Appeal Following Cannonvale Traffic Crash
Queensland Police Service (QPS) authorities are appealing for information after a traffic crash in Cannonvale on Friday, 23rd January.

Investigations revealed that around 11.15pm a dark-coloured vehicle, believed to be a late-model Ford Everest, was travelling at speed on Island Drive when it struck a 40-year-old Cannonvale man riding an e-scooter. The man was transported to Proserpine Hospital and then airlifted by helicopter to Mackay Hospital with significant, potentially life-threatening leg and head injuries.

The driver failed to stop or render assistance and had left the scene before police arrived.
Police are urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident, or who has dashcam or CCTV footage from the area, to come forward. Officers are particularly keen to hear from anyone in the vicinity of Island Drive before or after the crash.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Policelink online at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or report anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersqld.com.au and quote the reference number QP2600151091.

Police Shift Focus to School Zones After Major Road Safety Operations
QPS have wrapped up two major road safety operations, with enforcement efforts now shifting toward school zone compliance as students return to classrooms across the state.

Operation X-Ray Surety and Operation X-Ray Mistletoe concluded this month, delivering significant enforcement outcomes as part of the Queensland Police Service’s ongoing efforts to reduce road trauma.

Operation X-Ray Surety was launched on 3 November 2025 in response to the increasing use of e-mobility devices, including e-bikes and e-scooters, and rising rates of unsafe and non-compliant riding. Over the 12-week operation, police issued more than 2,700 infringements statewide, the majority for failing to wear helmets, as well as offences for riding on prohibited roads and speeding. A further 142 non-compliant devices were removed from roads.

Road Policing and Regional Support Command Assistant Commissioner Adam Guild said the operation focused on prevention, particularly among young riders.

“Over the 12 weeks Operation X-Ray Surety ran, our officers worked tirelessly to reduce risk and prevent serious injury,” he said, noting that education in schools and communities formed a key part of the operation.

Operation X-Ray Mistletoe began on 13 December 2025 as the annual holiday road safety campaign, targeting behaviours linked to fatal crashes such as speeding and drink and drug driving. During the operation, police detected more than 32,100 traffic offences, including 16,000 speeding offences, and conducted more than 177,500 roadside breath tests and 7,200 drug tests.

Chief Superintendent Mark Wheeler said speeding, impairment, distraction, fatigue and failing to wear seatbelts remain the leading contributors to deadly crashes.

With the holiday operation now complete, police will maintain a strong presence on Queensland roads, with particular attention on school zones.

“Safer roads start with you,” Chief Superintendent Wheeler said. “Every decision you make behind the wheel matters.”

Water Safety a Priority Over The Long Weekend
Queensland authorities ramped up water safety messaging ahead of the recent long weekend, as one of the busiest and highest-risk periods on the state’s waterways unfolded.

With coastal and inland waterways experiencing heavy traffic, Queensland Water Police joined forces with Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) and Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) to help ensure a safe and enjoyable break for boaties, swimmers and beachgoers.

Water Police Sunshine Coast Officer in Charge Sergeant Kyle Bates said officers were out in force throughout the long weekend, focusing on safe and responsible behaviour on the water.

“With increased traffic on both coastal and inland waterways, the choices people make on the water matter more than ever – not just for themselves, but for everyone around them,” Sergeant Bates said.

He also reiterated the dangers of mixing alcohol or drugs with boating, noting authorities have a zero-tolerance policy for anyone putting themselves and others at risk.

“Alcohol and drugs will slow down your reaction time and decision-making, increasing the risk of serious injury or fatal incidents,” he said.

MRQ Chief Officer Tony Wulff said more than 1,000 volunteers were on standby across the state during the long weekend.

MSQ General Manager Kell Dillon said while most boaties were doing the right thing, the long weekend highlighted the need for extra caution.

“Slow down, wear your lifejacket, and make it home safely to your family and friends,” he said.

Authorities reminded Queenslanders that water safety was a shared responsibility, with planning, preparation and smart decision-making key to a safe long weekend on the water.

Jack’s Law Delivering Results Six Months On
Since Jack’s Law became permanent six months ago, Mackay and the Whitsundays region has seen 4,194 people scanned and 10 weapons seized by police, as part of statewide efforts to prevent knife crime.

The expanded law allows officers to use hand-held metal detectors in all public places, increasing their ability to detect weapons and intervene early.

Minister for Police and Emergency Services Dan Purdie said the results show the law is making Queensland safer.

“Every weapon seized is a potential life saved, and that’s how we honour Jack Beasley’s legacy,” he said.

Commissioner of Police Steve Gollschewski also commended frontline officers for their work in leveraging the powers to better prevent, detect, and disrupt crime across the region.

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QPS are appealing for information following a Cannonvale traffic crash. Photo source: QPS
Operation X-Ray Surety and Operation X-Ray Mistletoe will concluded this month. Photo source: QPS

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By Sebastian Conidi

On Wednesday 21st January, more than 70 protestors gathered by the Proserpine Community Centre to campaign against a proposed wind farm by Alinta Energy.

The event was organised by Whitsunday Wind Farm Action Group, who took to Facebook stating: "This is our moment to stand together. We need your presence this afternoon to show the strength of community opposition to Mt Challenger Wind Farm. Every person there matters. Every face counts."

The Mt Challenger Wind Farm is a proposed wind turbine development by Alinta Energy in the Whitsundays region of North Queensland. The proposal involves two separate project locations at Mt Challenger and Crystal Brook/Kelsey Creek with plans for up to 30 industrial wind turbines, each reaching approximately 240 metres in height. Several of the proposed turbine locations are close to existing rural homes and properties, with some situated within 1.5 kilometres of residences and less than 9 kilometres from Proserpine.

There have been ongoing community concerns about the impact on wildlife, safety and liveability. According to the Whitsunday Wind Farm Action Group website, there is still scepticism over the accuracy of the information that is being provided.

Communication action developed after Alinta Energy held a public consultation at the Proserpine Tennis Club on 16th October, 2025. Since then, the group launched a page on social media and have held several protests.

Federal MP Andrew Wilcox has since raised community concerns with the Federal Parliament. In a statement made on 5th December, 2025, Wilcox provided official comments on the matter.

"There is nothing safe, fair or responsible about placing this project in the middle of a rural community. The location is wrong, the risks are real. The majority of the community is united and I will not allow these families to be steamrolled," said Mr Wilcox.

In the same month, State MP Amanda Camm also spoke in Queensland Parliament, reiterating public concerns and stressing the need for proper community engagement.

As of January 2026, a community petition against the wind farm has surpassed 5000 petitions.

According to Alinta Energy's page, they are currently at the 'feasibility and engagement' stage of development, which includes site investigations, raising awareness of the project and seeking feedback from the community.

With Alinta Energy's return to the site this January, it is likely that discussions and campaigning will continue for the foreseeable future.

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A protest was held outside Proserpine Community Centre on 21st January

Photo Source: Whitsunday Wind Farm Action Group

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Extreme weather events affecting the Whitsundays and Mackay regions contributed to a costly year across Queensland, with new figures showing insured losses from extreme weather reached almost $3.5 billion nationally in 2025.

According to data released by the Insurance Council of Australia, North Queensland flooding early last year was one of five major events declared significant or catastrophic, with impacts felt across coastal and regional communities, including parts of the Mackay and Whitsundays.

The North Queensland floods, which occurred between late January and mid-February 2025, generated more than 11,700 insurance claims and an estimated $304 million in insured losses. Heavy rainfall, river flooding and widespread inundation caused damage to homes, businesses and infrastructure, disrupting transport and agriculture across the region.

Later in the year, severe storm activity across Queensland also had flow-on effects for Central and North Queensland communities. While the most destructive hailstorms were concentrated further south, insurers noted that statewide weather systems placed ongoing pressure on claims services and recovery resources.

The data highlights the growing unpredictability of extreme weather. By comparison, insured losses totalled $581 million in 2024 and $2.35 billion in 2023, underscoring how dramatically annual costs can vary.

To support recovery, insurers coordinated community consultation sessions and deployed Insurance Hubs following major events. Insurers have warned that final costs from 2025 events may continue to rise as late claims are lodged.

The trend has continued into 2026, with monsoonal conditions already affecting parts of North Queensland. Insurers say they are prioritising claims and maintaining an on-the-ground presence in affected communities.

For regions like Mackay and the Whitsundays, the figures are a stark reminder of the increasing financial and environmental toll of extreme weather—and the importance of preparedness as communities face another wet season ahead.

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Mackay Whitsunday Taxis has proudly delivered safe, reliable, and professional transport services across the Mackay and Whitsunday regions for more than 40 years. The business provides a comprehensive range of services including general taxi transport, corporate and account work, school and medical transfers, airport transfers, and accessible transport under the Transport and Main Roads Taxi Subsidy Scheme. Its long-standing focus has been to ensure the community has access to dependable, locally operated transport around the clock.

As customer expectations and technology continue to evolve, the transport industry has undergone significant change. Mackay Whitsunday Taxis has responded by integrating digital booking and payment systems through the 13cabs app, enabling passengers to easily book, track, and pay for trips. Demand for airport and tourism-related transport has also grown steadily in the Whitsundays, leading to the introduction of fixed fares on key routes, enhanced vehicle tracking, and driver refresher programs that reinforce safety and service standards.

A key point of difference for the business is its strong local presence. The company is managed and operated by people who understand the region and its unique transport needs, allowing them to provide a personalised, community-focused service.

Over the past year, the business has navigated challenges including driver recruitment, rising operational costs, and the need to adapt to new technologies. These challenges have been addressed through improved driver support, structured onboarding and training, and stronger communication across the organisation. Additional investment in marketing and community engagement has also helped raise awareness of services and career opportunities.

Their advice to other business owners is to:

1. Invest in your people. Your team represents your brand every day. Training, support, and recognition go a long way.
2. Embrace change. Technology and customer expectations evolve quickly. Adaptation keeps your business relevant and competitive.
3. Stay community focused. Building trust and visibility in your local area is the foundation for long-term success.

Mackay Whitsunday Taxis continues to value its membership with the Whitsundays Chamber, recognising the importance of collaboration, connection, and shared commitment to strengthening local business and supporting regional growth. They are also a member of the Chamber’s Ground Transport Operators Sub-Committee.
Learn more: https://www.mackaytaxi.com.au/

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Mackay Whitsunday Taxi are safe, reliable, and professional. Photo supplied

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What Council Does When No One’s Watching

Much of Council’s most important work happens quietly — without ribbon cuttings, announcements or headlines.

It’s the compliance checks that prevent bigger problems down the track. The asset maintenance that stops roads, pipes and facilities from failing. The risk assessments, audits and long-term planning that keep essential services running safely and reliably.

This work isn’t glamorous, but it’s vital.

When systems fail, people notice immediately. When they don’t, it’s usually because someone did the work early — checking, maintaining, repairing and planning ahead. That’s the unseen side of local government.

Council staff spend countless hours reviewing infrastructure, managing safety risks, responding to regulations and planning for future demand. Decisions are made every day to avoid issues most people will never know were possible.

That might mean replacing something before it breaks, upgrading quietly before it becomes urgent, or setting aside funds now to avoid much larger costs later. These are decisions made carefully, often without public attention, but always with the community’s long-term interests in mind.

It’s also about accountability. Council operates within strict legislative and financial frameworks. We’re required to manage public assets responsibly, protect community safety and plan beyond election cycles.

I believe residents deserve confidence that their Council isn’t just reacting — but actively preventing problems before they arise.

So while you might not always see this work happening, I can assure you it’s constant, deliberate and essential.

And it’s one of the reasons the Whitsundays continues to function — day in, day out — even when no one’s watching.

Next week, I’ll reflect on how Council listens to community feedback — what we’ve learned from recent consultations, why not every issue ends in consensus, and how local input still shapes the decisions we make.

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Acres of Support is a new NDIS service provider based in Bowen and offering qualified nursing and social support services to the disabled and the elderly.

The company is a small but dedicated team who provide nursing, cleaning and social support services to clients in Bowen.

“We are fully registered to work with clients who have been approved for NDIS services in the area - that might be as minimal as offering companionship and assistance with the basic daily living needs, to the provision of qualified professional nursing care, advice and liaison with other services as required," said company director Carol Wallace.

“Our support services, clients’ personal independence and ability to live safely in their own environment, allows them to protect their dignity, decision making and quality of life. Our passion is to provide individual care to clients to enable them to get the best out of life, their health and wellbeing.”

With an educational background in psychology and prior experience working in healthcare services – including support Alzheimer’s patients – Carol is putting her knowledge to great use, helping those who need support.

With a strong foundation, the company is looking forward to the future in Bowen and being a NDIS provider into 2026.

“We are available and ready.”

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Company director Carol Wallace and registered nurse Maria Carty. Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi

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Additional disaster assistance has been activated to support Whitsundays communities and primary producers impacted by ongoing flooding linked to the North Queensland Monsoon Trough and Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji.

Flood-affected primary producers in the Whitsundays are now eligible to apply for disaster loans of up to $250,000, as well as freight subsidies of up to $5,000, to help businesses recover and maintain operations following widespread damage. The assistance is being delivered through the joint Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), with 45 local government areas across northern Queensland now receiving support.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said the scale and duration of the flooding had required further expansion of assistance.

“We’re making sure every area of Queensland impacted by this damaging event is receiving the help they need to recover,” Minister McBain said.

“As we continue to learn of the impacts from this period of severe weather, we’ll keep providing the financial assistance to councils and communities as required.”

Federal Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins said the assistance was vital for farmers and food security.

“We’ll always back our farmers and primary producers, with this support to help those impacted in North Queensland to clean up, sustain livestock, and mitigate the impacts of flooding and loss of pasture,” she said.

Whitsundays producers can access more information at www.qrida.qld.gov.au and www.dpi.qld.gov.au, with personal hardship assistance available via www.disaster.qld.gov.au or 1800 173 349.

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Residents and primary producers are encouraged to apply for the newly released disaster loans. Photo credit: Chelsea Ravizza

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The Bowen Visitor Information Centre has a large range of local products and merchandise for sale, including books by local and regional authors.

The range of books available has been expanded to include two books by Bowen author Gary Wood about his solo motorcycle torus around Queensland.

Recently, the centre also started stocking a children’s book by Whitsundays author Cas Rae and a coffee-table book featuring beautiful Whitsunday images produced by Cannonvale resident Tolita Dukes.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and business, Leanne Abernethy said the new books added to the range already available including several books about the region by well-known author Annie Seaton and the children’s series written by Maggie Bowden.

“We also have the children’s book No Drama Cane Farmer by Mackay author Nikki Townley which is very popular,” she said.

“These books all make great gifts and stocking them right here at the Big Mango is our way of showcasing the works of local and regional authors.”

The centre also stocks many other regional products including delicious mango sorbet produced in Bowen, beef jerky from Proserpine, chutneys, sauces and peanut butter from Mackay, body products and candles from Conway and honey from Bowen.

“Visitors love sampling local products when they are travelling and we love supporting local businesses,” Leanne said.

The Bowen Visitor Information Centre next to the Big Mango is open from 9am until 5pm Monday to Friday and from 10am until 3pm on weekends.

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Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business Leanne Abernethy and team member Cindy Tonks with some of the books by regional authors now available at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre. Photo supplied

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St Catherine’s Catholic College, The Whitsundays, is ready to welcome students and
families for the new school year.

In 2026, the College has expanded its team with the appointment of 15 new staff members across administration, finance, teaching and school officer roles. These new appointments reflect St Catherine’s ongoing commitment to providing a supportive, well-resourced and future-focused learning environment for every student.

Among the new staff is Mahezakeen Khan, known as Mez, who brings more than 20 years
of teaching experience from the Fiji Islands, including six years as a Secondary Principal. After migrating to Australia in 2024, Mez continued her teaching journey in Mount Isa, within a school in our Diocese, before being drawn to the St Catherine’s Catholic College community. We are pleased that Mez has chosen to continue her teaching within Catholic Education.

Mez said the College’s strong sense of community and commitment to holistic learning were key factors in her decision to join the team.

“I’m excited to get to know the students, staff and families and to contribute to a school environment that values both academic excellence and student wellbeing,” she said.

St Catherine’s Catholic College Principal, Katherine Nelson said the start of the new school year is an exciting time for the entire College community.

“We are thrilled to welcome so many talented and passionate staff to St Catherine’s,” Ms Nelson said.

“This year we have also seen an increase in Prep enrolments, allowing us to open a third Prep class, which is a wonderful reflection of the trust families place in our College. Each new team member brings unique skills and experiences that will enrich our learning community and support our mission to nurture the whole child.”

“With a growing team and a shared commitment to faith, learning and wellbeing, St
Catherine’s Catholic College is well prepared for a positive and successful year ahead.”

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St Catherine's Catholic College welcomes new staff member Mahezakeen Khan. Photo supplied

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Since 21st January, 2026 marks the centenary of the CANEGROWERS Association, it is an appropriate time to recognise the pioneers from Proserpine who helped establish this organisation. One such pioneer was W H Doherty.

From the cane farm to State secretaryship of Queensland Cane Growers' Council; such was the career of Mr. W. H. Doherty who worked tirelessly building up of a spirit of co-operation among Queensland cane growers.

Born at Yambuk, Victoria, in 1868, Mr. Doherty spent fourteen years in New Zealand, drawn to mining.  This interest lured him to the Northern Territory and to Charters Towers. In 1908, while in Charters Towers, in partnership with Mr Ralph Lewis, he purchased W Compton’s farm at Mt Marlow, later selling half of his share and growing cane in his own right.

While at Mt Marlow, Doherty was responsible for paying for beetles for the Insect Pest Destruction Committee. For two years, he was president of the United Farmers and Cane Growers’ Association and then continued as Mt Marlow delegate. In 1912, he was appointed secretary of the newly formed Cannon Valley District Branch of the association and successfully proposed that farmers in outside districts have the right to vote on all Executive Council business. This power given to branches was a major factor in retaining their importance.

From 1910 until 1918, he was a member of the Proserpine Shire Council and was Chairman in 1911. The formation of the United Cane Growers' Association (UCGA) in 1914, foreshadowed Doherty’s long service as an executive on the statewide body. In 1918, with the imminent retirement of the secretary, delegates urged Doherty to apply. Disheartened by the devastation to his crop in the Mackay cyclone of that year, he did so and was duly selected from twenty-three applicants.

At this time, the organisation had sufficient funds to carry on for only three months, so it was necessary for Mr. Doherty to go out into the sugar districts and endeavour to further organise the farmers who were too busy for meetings. Consequently, Doherty had to make personal calls particularly in the Innisfail, South Johnstone, Tully, Ayr, Mackay, and Bundaberg districts.

In the early days of the UCGA, roads (where they did exist) were in a pitiable condition and the UCGA was too poor to hire a sulky or horse. Doherty was often obliged to discard boots and carry them from farm to farm because of torrential rains and lack of adequate thoroughfares. Such was his determination and dedication! On one of these treks, he walked thirty miles while calling on two dozen farmers. Many and varied were the unusual incidents which befell Doherty, but he always spoke appreciatively of the ready and good-natured hospitality of the hard-working cane farmer to “the wayfarer”.

In just seven months, Doherty raised the membership of the association to over 3000 and the revenue from £750 to more than. £2000 per annum. During the next two or three years, the membership represented 82 per cent of the growers in Queensland.

In 1926, the Primary Producers Organising and Marketing Act came into being. This act made it compulsory for every cane grower to contribute towards the Queensland Cane Growers' Council.  Building on the foundation of the UCGA, the Queensland Cane Growers' Council was formally established as a statutory body in Mackay on January 21, 1926. The Council invited applications for the position of general secretary (equivalent to its Chief Executive) and Mr. W H Doherty was accepted from twenty-five other applicants.

During Mr. Doherty’s twenty-one years as secretary of these associations, he lectured on matters of interest to the industry throughout most states except Western Australia. For many years, he was the Council's advocate in the Industrial Conciliation and Arbitration Court. He retired in 1939 and served on the Royal Commission on Sugar Peaks and Cognate Matters later that year.

Story courtesy of Proserpine Historical Museum.

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William H Doherty, 1911. Photo Source: Whitsunday Regional Council

Inaugural CANEGROWERS Meeting, 1926. Photo Source: Australian CANEGROWERS' Magazine

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East-West Airlines. The State Government approved East-West to run regular flights out of Rockhampton possibly to include Proserpine Airport. Federal Government approval is also required.

Australia Day Honours.
Edna Winton, nominated by Alpha Phi Chapter of ESA. For Citizens Award. She was chairman of its Cancer Research and been very active in fundraising for nursing and the Proserpine Nursing Home.

Helen Raiteri, Junior Citizen Award, nominated by Red Cross Society for achievements in raising money for the Crippled Chidren’s Society in the Miss Australia Quest and a State Finalist.

Ron Demartini, Year’s Sports Medallion, nominated for achievements in bowls during the year having won Whitsunday and North Queensland Pairs and semi finalist in Brisbane.

Awards will be presented by Shire Chairman Peter Faust.

Obituary
Edna May Skaife aged 64, a Foxdale resident.

William Ernest [Bill] Compton, aged 90 was for many years a leading staff member at the old Co-operative store.

Vivian Alan [Viv] O’Brien, aged 81 an old local resident who lived in Marathon Street.

First Days at Schools. The High School had a roll of 558 students.
Other Schools rolls were as follows: Cannonvale SS 247, St Caths. 167, Bloomsbury 37, Proserpine 500.

Pistol Club Opens. The newly established pistol club with its range and other facilities in an impressive outdoor setting in Dryander Hills was opened by local member Geoff Muntz on Saturday.

Donation For Underwater Hockey. Radio 4 donated $150 to the newly formed Whitsunday Underwater Hockey Club accepted with thanks by  Treasurer Steve Helvig.
Jelly Wrestling. Twelve ladies entered and the final between Mary and Vicki Watts ended in a draw.

Body Painting Championships. This was won by Chris Snoeke for his design which included a lizard,and a brolga flying in front of the moon painted on Katrina Brown..

Grays Sawmill- Fifty Years. In 1936 a 22 year old Proserpine man rigged up a circular saw in a backyard to cut timber for his home. He little realised that he was starting a flourishing business with no sign of it ending after half a century.

Uniting Church at Cool Palms, Mandalay Road. Evening worship 7.30 pm

Mackay Intertown Australia Day Cricket Weekend. Proserpine ‘A’ Grade 102 beat Bowen 89 [ S.Rock 5/20]

Proserpine 170 [ F.Quod 85] lost to Sarina 180 [B. Shepherd 4/14]

Proserpine ‘B’ Grade  beat Home Hill but lost to Farleigh.

Tug-O-War Bora’s Hopes toppled eight teams at Malanda to win over a big field.

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BY GLADYS YOUNG

This week's Photo of the Week winner is Gladys Young for their image from outback Winton, Queensland.

The theme was: Something Broken

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Sally is a beautiful 2- to 3-year-old Cattle Dog x Staffy mix with a gentle, easy-going nature and a heart full of love. Weighing around 25kg, she’s the perfect medium-sized companion for someone looking for a calm, affectionate dog.

Sally is: friendly and relaxed, good with children, calm and social with other dogs, easy to live with and settles well.

She enjoys company but doesn’t demand constant attention, making her a wonderful fit for a family or individual wanting a loyal but low-stress companion.

To ensure Sally thrives, owners must have a 4ft+ fence and not own any cats, livestock or chooks.

She has had all ecto-parasite treatments completed and is currently undergoing heart-worm treatment. Otherwise, Sally is healthy and thriving in care.

Sally would suit a calm household with secure fencing and a family who will include her as part of everyday life. She's not demanding, just happy to be loved.

Sally's adoption fee is $400. The fee covers veterinary care and allows the shelter to continue rescuing dogs in need.

For more information or an expression of interest, you can go to the Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc Facebook page. If you know someone who may be interested, spread the word to ensure Sally finds her forever home.

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By Hannah McNamara

Col Benson’s name was met with cheers and heartfelt applause last Sunday, 25 January, when he was named the 2026 Mackay Region Citizen of the Year. Known across the region for his extraordinary knowledge of Mackay’s history and the people who have shaped it, Col has dedicated decades to keeping stories alive through his storytelling, memorial services, and community work.

A Vietnam veteran, former Royal Australian Air Force radio technician, and long-time Mackay RSL member, now Senior Vice President, Col has quietly supported veterans and their families for more than 40 years. His tireless efforts range from organising solemn commemorations to educating young people about the region’s past.

Humbled by the recognition, Col described his work as a labour of love, driven by a desire to preserve history rather than seek accolades. Despite his "unexpected" win, he has proven himself truly deserving, and his dedication continues to inspire the Mackay community.

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Col Benson Recognised For Decades Of Service And Community Dedication

By Hannah McNamara

Col Benson is a man of great integrity, best known for his extraordinary knowledge of the Mackay region and the people who have shaped it, both past and present. His passion for keeping history alive through storytelling is nothing short of remarkable, and his long-standing dedication to organising and hosting memorial services has earned him recognition he never quite expected.

That recognition came last Sunday, 25 January, when Mr Benson was named the 2026 Mackay Region Citizen of the Year at the Mackay Australia Day Awards.

Mr Benson said he was shocked and greatly moved by the honour, admitting he “can’t believe it” and was “quite emotional” when his name was announced.

In an earlier interview about Mackay’s worst natural disaster that happened in 1918, Mr Benson reflected on his work, saying, “We don’t do these things for recognition… I just do it because I want to see these people’s stories kept alive.”

He also referenced the 1918 cyclone in his awards night speech, further emphasising his passion as a local historian, with a heart for preserving Mackay’s history, and the stories of those affected.

As a Vietnam veteran, former RAAF radio technician, Senior Vice President, and long-time member of the Mackay RSL Sub-branch, Mr Benson has spent more than 40 years supporting veterans and their families.

Mayor Greg Williamson noted Mr Benson’s contributions in organising some of the community’s most significant commemorations.

“ANZAC Day, Remembrance Day, Victory in Europe Day, Victory in the Pacific Day, the Rats of Tobruk ceremony, the Bakers Creek Memorial and the annual tribute to the 29 lives lost in the Fokker Friendship crash – each of these solemn occasions is delivered with precision, dignity and deep respect because of Col’s tireless coordination,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Col also educates young people through school visits and supports veterans and families during times of hardship – offering guidance, compassion and dignified poppy services at funerals,” he said.

Col was one of eight individuals and one community group that were recognised for their exceptional contributions to the Mackay region. His humble nature and passion for preserving history, particularly within the landscape of war and some of Mackay’s most memorable events, have had a major impact on those who know him, as well as the wider community.

Congratulations Col!

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Local historian and Vietnam veteran Col Benson took home the 2026 Mackay Region Citizen of the Year award for his lifelong dedication to preserving Mackay’s history and serving the community. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Col Benson, a Vietnam veteran, former RAAF radio technician, long-time Mackay RSL member, and passionate local historian, was named 2026 Mackay Region Citizen of the Year for his decades of dedication to preserving history, supporting veterans, and serving the community. Photo source: Mackay Tiger Moth Museum

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