Local NDIS Community Comes Together for BBQ Event

A warm, sunny start with the unmistakable aroma of a good old Aussie barbecue set the scene perfectly as local NDIS providers rocked up to host a cracking community event. The whole shindig was all about inclusion, connection, and support. It was a fair dinkum chance for participants, their families, and support workers to kick back, leave their usual routines behind, and soak up a relaxed, social vibe.

“The BBQ was a success. Approximately 60 people turned up, from NDIS Participants to their family to Support Workers from both Providers to the local police, a great time was had by all,” said Tracie Cockburn, Group Co-ordinator and Senior Support Worker.

The BBQ marked a promising beginning to what organisers hope will become a regular series of social events, designed to enhance community engagement and participant wellbeing.

“The community BBQ was a fantastic first step in the collaboration of local NDIS providers to host community social events. This can be a game changer for participants especially those working toward goals like social inclusion, confidence building, and community engagement,” Tracie said.

By working together, service providers can deliver more dynamic and inclusive experiences for their clients.

“When providers join forces they bring together diverse skills and expose participants to a range of personalities from both participants and support workers.”

These events also offer a safe space for developing social confidence and forging new connections.

“Collaborative events attract a wider range of participants which helps foster inclusive social interactions. For people with disabilities who may struggle with unfamiliar settings or peer engagement these events offer a safe and structured way to meet others, build friendships and practice social etiquette.”

Participants also benefit from continuity of care, with aligned approaches between providers.

“When providers collaborate, they can align their approaches and share insights. This helps participants feel secure and understood.”

Importantly, collaboration helps overcome logistical challenges and reduce the risk of isolation.

“Without these joint efforts some participants may miss out on community events altogether due to limited capacity or lack of tailored support.”

For further details, Grow & Evolve Owner/Manager Angela Coventry is available to speak more about the event.

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Whitsunday Coast Airport has officially joined the Containers for Change program, launching a new sustainability initiative expected to generate around $80,000 annually through container refunds.

All departments within Council’s Commercial Businesses Directorate will participate in the program, which will support both the environment and local communities.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the initiative was a double win.

“This is about turning everyday recycling into real support for our local groups,” Mayor Collins said.

“Every eligible bottle or can collected at the airport helps keep valuable materials out of landfill and there is a strong opportunity to channel these funds into grassroots organisations in Airlie Beach, Proserpine, Bowen, and Collinsville.”

How the funds are allocated will be determined by Council, with options including support for regional non-profits and sporting clubs. A Bowen-based contractor will manage the initiative, keeping benefits local.

“Having a Bowen-based contractor manage this program means local jobs and local expertise are driving the impact,” Mayor Collins said.

“It’s another example of how we’re backing local businesses and creating practical environmental outcomes at the same time.”

Craig Turner, Director of Commercial Businesses, said the airport was proud to lead by example.

“We’re in a unique position to show visitors and locals that small actions, like recycling a drink bottle, can make a big difference,” Mr Turner said.

He added the program complements other sustainability efforts at the airport, such as Virgin Australia’s sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) trial in partnership with Viva Energy.

“Our team is proud to be part of projects that not only support the environment but also have the potential to deliver tangible benefits to local clubs and organisations,” he said.

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The Grazing Industry

Many people today may not be aware that before Proserpine became the centre of a major sugar-producing area, it was encircled by large cattle stations. There had, in fact, been substantial cattle runs in the area dating back to the very early 1860s.

These early cattle stations included Bromby Park, now Goorganga (once owned by Bodes and Cottons); Bloomsbury (MacCartneys); Proserpine Station and Amelia Vale (Emmersons); Cattle Vale (The James McDonald family); Collingvale (James Collins) and Myrtlebrook (The Bradleys).

In the 1920s, some of these stations were cut up into smaller sections for cane farms but others survived to the present day and still contribute to the local economy.

The McDonalds of Cattle Vale Station

For over three generations, Cattle Vale was home to the McDonald family. Donald McDonald arrived from Scotland in 1827 as a free settler under a three-year contract to the Van Dieman Land Co. He shipped the first live cattle from England and a draft of sheep from Spain. Donald took up land in South Australia and later Forsayth in Queensland. In 1864, while looking for a suitable grazing area, he was fatally injured at Einasleigh River.

Donald and wife, Elizabeth Archibald, had 8 children including 3 sons - Donald Jnr, James and William. Eldest son, Donald Jnr, remained single and settled in North Queensland. William married Amelia Jochheim at Glencoe Station (in Wangaratta Shire, now Bowen) in 1877. They settled on Woodlands Station and had a family of six daughters. The second son, James, married Mary Hughes and they had two sons, Donald Archibald (Archie) and Bert. They lived on Glencoe before taking up Cattle Vale, including the Mountain Home selection in 1897/98.

When James died, this property was left to the eldest of his two sons, Donald (Archie). Archie married and raised three children on Cattle Vale - Vera (O’Donoghue), Doreen (Shelley) and Jim. James’s other son, Bert, who did not marry, owned the neighbouring property, Hecate. After selling Hecate, he retired to Kelsey Creek.

Archie Mc Donald took part in the social and economic life of the district, invested in property and was a member of Kennedy Stockholders Association. In the article, “Proserpine & District Pioneers”, from the special edition of the “Proserpine Guardian” (1947), W B Morgan stated that there was ‘a small cottage and orchard owned by McDonald occupying the land between Webbers Café and the Prince of Wales Hotel Corner in 1897’. Later, McDonald House was erected where Filby’s Toyota is situated today.

Recollections from Archie’s son, Jim, indicate that his family also owned land that included the hotel (Metropole), the picture theatre, skating rink and mini golf in Chapman Street. The picture theatre referred to was the Tivoli and this was also where the skating rink and mini golf were located. This land is where Porters Hardware and Plumbing is now located. The McDonalds also owned the first 240 volt power generator in 1912/13 to power their picture theatre.

On March 8 1919, “Proserpine Guardian” reported that at a special meeting of the Returned Soldiers’ Association, Mr D A McDonald generously offered to donate a piece of the land adjoining the skating rink in Chapman Street on which to build a ‘rest home’ (that being a rest room for the benefit of returned soldiers).

A J (Jim) McDonald took over Cattle Vale after the death of his father, Archie, but, in 1944, he sold it to Mr Fred Watts Snr and his wife, Marjorie Lyons, as he felt the west was more suitable for expansion and cattle grazing. Jim, Marjorie, and their young family moved to Cloncurry where they purchased Brightlands Station in 1946, laying the foundation for the family’s present extensive pastoral operations, MDH Pty Ltd.

In spite of remoteness, low rainfall and challenges of wild cattle, unfenced paddocks and cattle duffing, Jim and his sons, Bob and Don, increased their holdings and formed the McDonald Holdings Pastoral Company. With nearly two centuries of history in the pastoral industry and now 7th generation of beef producers, MDH

Pty Ltd is one of Australia’s largest beef cattle operations running 150,000 head of cattle on 14 Queensland properties covering 3.36 million hectares. The McDonald family still live and work on the founding property, Brightlands, as well as nearby Devoncourt.

So, what of Cattle Vale Station today?

Cattle Vale Station has had quite a few owners since the McDonalds sold to Mr Fred Watts in 1944. In August 1965, it was sold by then owners Messrs A & B D Collins to a Merinda cattleman, Mr G D Smith. Mr Jim Farr and family purchased the property in 1988 and sold it in 2005 to Mr Ken Stevens who still owns Cattle Vale Station today.

Blazing the Trail.

While sugar has replaced cattle at the heart of Proserpine’s primary production, the area owes much to these early cattlemen who blazed the trail. It was their search for grazing land that opened up North Queensland. The McDonald men must be recognised as part of the backbone of the pastoral industry of Queensland but so too those wonderful women who supported them through their endeavours and dreams.

Stay tuned for more stories of pioneers of the cattle industry in future editions.

Story and photos courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum.

The original cattlevale station homestead. Photo supplied.
Jim McDonald. Photo supplied.

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Meet Dax, a tiny fighter with a huge heart. Dumped near railway tracks at just seven weeks old, this little kitten has already overcome more than most. Now safe in foster care, Dax is slowly learning that not all humans are bad, and that love and kindness do exist.

Dax isn’t ready for adoption just yet, but Bowen and Collinsville Pet Rescue are now taking expressions of interest from kind-hearted families who’d love to welcome him into their home when the time comes.

His adoption fee is $170, which includes microchipping, vaccinations, flea, tick and worm treatments, and desexing when he’s old enough.

If you’d like to be part of Dax’s happy ending, email: bowencollinsville@gmail.com with your contact number and email address.

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It is time to shed some light on one of Queensland’s most misunderstood residents, the crocodile.

Like most dangerous animals, much of the fear surrounding crocs comes from knowledge gaps and misinformation. A little information goes a long way to understanding the vital role they play in Queensland’s ecosystem.

Crocodiles are a fact of life in Australia, from Gladstone in Queensland, across the top and down to in Broome in Western Australia. We have plenty of them right here in the Whitsundays. In fact, the Proserpine River has the highest density of crocodiles in Queensland, approximately 5.5 crocs per km of river.

When people talk about Queensland’s croc population, odds are they are referring to the estuarine crocodile (also known as the saltwater crocodile). However, our state also has freshwater crocodiles or “freshies” can also be found in Queensland’s temperate northern waters.

The estuarine crocodile population in Queensland is estimated to be between 20,000–30,000.

They are primarily found on or near the banks of a river, with 90% of the population existing in areas less than 20m above sea level, in tidal reaches of rivers and associated inlets and wetlands, along beaches and offshore islands in the Great Barrier Reef as well as freshwater lagoons, rivers, and swamps up to hundreds of km inland from the coast.

Estuarine crocodiles are capable of long-distance movements, up to several hundred km, along the coast and up and down rivers. As a result, there is a possibility that crocodiles may be present in any water body (saltwater and freshwater) north from Gladstone.

An adult estuarine crocodile, which can reach lengths of over 5m, may prey on sea turtles, goannas, wallabies, cats, pigs, dogs, kangaroos, cattle, horses, buffalo, other crocodiles, and very occasionally, people.

Estuarine crocodiles are water’s edge predators that will ambush anything that moves at or near the water’s surface. They have very good eyesight, and a well-developed sense of smell which sometimes leads them long distances in search of prey.

Crocodiles are apex predators in their environments, playing a crucial role in regulating populations of fish, birds, and other animals. By regulating prey populations, crocodiles help prevent overgrazing and maintain the health and stability of their wetland and marine ecosystems.

Crocodiles create habitats for other animals through their burrowing and nest-building activities.

Crocodiles hold deep cultural significance for many First Nations groups across northern Australia, including Queensland.

Estuarine crocodiles were hunted to near extinction but are now protected under Queensland law due to their vulnerable status. The Queensland Government has implemented management plans to balance public safety with crocodile conservation. These plans involve monitoring crocodile populations, conducting research, and promoting "Crocwise" behaviours to minimize human-crocodile conflict.

Crocodile attacks are few and far between and can be largely attributed to reckless human behaviour rather than crocodile numbers. Culling only removes a protected and culturally significant species without addressing the root causes of these incidents, such as human actions and lack of community awareness. Culling can also lead to a false sense of safety in and around waterways in Croc Country, while the risk of crocodile attacks would remain.

Being Crocwise is the most effective way to reduce your risk of a crocodile attack and allows you to enjoy Queensland’s natural places safely. It means staying aware and choosing safe behaviours around the water in areas where there is crocodile habitat. For details, visit Be Crocwise | Environment, land and water | Queensland Government

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Conservation Council.

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Croc lurking in the water. Photo supplied.

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Eco Barge Hosts Outback Mike Adventure Screening

Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc. is excited to announce a one-night-only event with adventurer and filmmaker Outback Mike at Eco Barge HQ in Airlie Beach on Sunday 13th July at 6:00pm.

Outback Mike (Michael Atkinson) will present his 85-minute adventure documentary, Outback Mike: The Great Reef Voyage, which follows his extraordinary 1,500km solo journey up the Great Barrier Reef in a homemade dugout canoe. Inspired by the historic survival story of a shipwrecked sailor from 1846, Mike retraced the perilous path to experience — and survive — the wild, remote coastline.

After the screening, Mike will give a 25-minute behind-the-scenes talk and Q&A, offering insights into the challenges, wildlife encounters and moments that didn’t make it into the film. His dugout canoe — the very one used in the expedition — will also be on display on the night.

As a proud boating town, this gripping tale of endurance, navigation and connection to sea country is sure to resonate with many local sailing enthusiasts and adventurers alike.

Tickets are limited — book now at www.outbackmike.com

Outback Mike with his canoe and mullet he speared using his woomera. Photo supplied.

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Have you ever been out on the water and spotted a sea turtle, dolphin or even a whale, shark or ray, and thought you should report it but weren’t quite sure how?

Eye on the Reef is a monitoring and assessment program that invites anyone visiting the Great Barrier Reef to help protect it. By recording sightings of marine animals, reef health and incidents, you’re contributing valuable data that helps build a clearer picture of what’s happening below the surface and guides how the Reef is managed.

There are many ways to get involved, and every contribution counts — whether you're a first-time tourist, regular day tripper, fisher, Marine Park ranger, marine tourism staff or scientist.

One of the easiest ways to participate is by downloading the free Eye on the Reef app. It lets you quickly log animal sightings, reef conditions and incidents. For those who visit more frequently, have time to spare or marine knowledge to share, there are more detailed monitoring programs available, including options with training, all outlined on the Eye on the Reef website.

So keep your eye on the Reef, and next time you spot something amazing, you’ll know exactly where to log it!

https://www2.gbrmpa.gov.au/our-work/programs-and-projects/eye-on-the-reef

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To see where whales and other marine life have been sighted click on this Eye on the Reef (EOTR) link https://eotr.gbrmpa.gov.au/sightings

If you sight any whales please enter them into EOTR or send the details to me to be enter on your behalf.

HOW TO RECORD WHALE (& OTHER MARINE LIFE) SIGHTINGS IN THE GBR

1. Download the Eye on the Reef App or click on this link https://eotr.gbrmpa.gov.au/sightings
2. Click on the orange ADD SIGHTINGS tab
3. If you don’t already have a login, click on register, then fill in details. Programme registering for is Eye on the Reef Sightings
4. After logging in, click on the ADD SIGHTINGS box which has the green cross.
5. Complete all lines with an asterisk

If you have sighted a whale and would like me to enter it into EOTR on your behalf, please  send me the following details.

• Location
• Date & Time
• Number of whales sighted
• Any Calves
• Photo (optional)

Post these details in the Whales of the Whitsundays Facebook Group or email to whalesofthewhitsundays@gmail.com

Contributed with thanks to Kellie Leonard - Master Reef Guide/Whales of the Whitsundays

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The Coalition has wasted no time returning to the policy table, meeting this week at Parliament House in Canberra.

Among those stepping into a key role is Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox, who has been appointed to a newly formed energy policy development group tasked with shaping the Coalition’s future direction on climate and energy. His inclusion signals a strong regional voice in the national conversation, with a clear focus on affordability, reliability and resource-backed solutions.

Federal Opposition Leader Sussan Ley has established a dedicated working group to develop practical, balanced and forward-thinking policy for energy. The group will be chaired by Shadow Minister for Climate Change and Energy Dan Tehan and will include Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox.

“I am excited to be appointed to this working group, and I’m ready to take on the challenge to shape the Coalition’s energy policy for Australia,” Mr Willcox said.

“I envisage we will be engaging with a broad range of stakeholders from industry, agriculture, business and the scientific community. We need to ensure that Australia’s path forward balances energy costs and reliability with economic growth as well as environmental responsibility.”

When questioned about net zero and its future under the Coalition, Mr Willcox said this warrants further scrutiny.

“The Net Zero policy is one that we’ll be actively reviewing as we explore alternative, sensible options,” he said.

“Australia is abundant in energy resources, but we certainly aren’t using these resources to our advantage. Labor’s renewable-only policy is killing our economy and environment, so I’ll be pushing to develop policy that can provide reliable and affordable power, create jobs and strengthen Australia’s independence.”

The group will meet and work together over the coming months and report back to Federal Opposition Leader Sussan Ley and Nationals Leader David Littleproud with policy recommendations later this year.

In addition to his role on the energy policy working group, Mr Willcox was also appointed as the Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capabilities last month — a portfolio he describes as critical to both national resilience and regional prosperity. The appointment reflects growing recognition of the important role regional centres like Mackay, Bowen and Townsville play in shaping Australia’s industrial future.

“From defence to advanced manufacturing, food production to space technology — our future relies on Australian-made solutions,” Mr Willcox said.

“And that starts right here in Dawson.”

He said his first priority would be listening to local manufacturers and identifying what’s needed to grow jobs and capabilities across the north. “We’ve got global innovation happening in our backyard, and I’ll be working to ensure federal policy keeps pace with local ambition.”

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Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox has been appointed to the Coalition’s energy policy working group, bringing a regional perspective to the national conversation on energy, climate and economic growth

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The Mackay & District Orchid Society will host its annual Winter Orchid Show this month on Saturday, 19 July, and Sunday, 20 July, at the Mackay and District Senior Citizens Centre, 58 Macalister Street. This year’s event is part of the Festival of Arts Program, drawing attention from across the Mackay and Whitsunday districts.

Visitors can expect stunning displays featuring a variety of orchids, including Vandas, Cattleyas, Dendrobiums, Phalaenopsis, and Australian native species, showcasing vibrant colours and unique shapes.

The event will also offer orchid-growing accessories, cultural demonstrations, raffles, and orchid sales, alongside homemade refreshments and beverages.

Show hours are 8am to 4pm on Saturday and 8am to 3pm on Sunday. Admission is a $2 gold coin donation. Wheelchair access is available.

For more details, visit www.mdos.com.au or call President Noel Acton on 0409 637 384.

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The Mackay & District Orchid Society’s annual Winter Orchid Show will take place on 19–20 July at the Mackay Senior Citizens Centre, featuring stunning orchid displays, cultural demonstrations, sales, and refreshments, as part of the Festival of Arts Program.

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A. L. Tippett Launches Fifth Novel

Mackay’s own urban fantasy author, A. L. Tippett, is celebrating a magical milestone with the recent launch of her fifth novel, Gosh Darn Griffins. The event, held on Sunday, June 22 at Kitten Vintage Mackay, brought together fans, friends, and fantasy lovers for a morning of cake, book signings, and storytelling.

“I had the most wonderful day at the book launch for my fifth novel, Gosh Darn Griffins!

“Thank you to Kitten Vintage Mackay for hosting, to km and zn designs for the stunning edible cake topper, and to everyone who came down and supported me and my books.

“It was such a joy to share my love of storytelling with you all!” Tippett said.

Known for her blend of magic, humour, and heart, Tippett’s Magic and Motherhood series weaves fantastical adventures into familiar Queensland settings – including landmarks like the Big Mango in Bowen – giving readers a whimsical local twist.

But Tippett’s creative mission doesn’t end with her own books. She’s now helping others bring their stories to life with her upcoming Pathways to Print self-publishing workshop, designed to demystify the process of publishing on platforms like Amazon.

The workshop will be held on Saturday, 6 July, from 9am to 2pm at CQUniversity Ooralea.

For just $60, aspiring authors will receive expert guidance on editing, cover design, marketing, distribution, and the most rewarding moment of all – holding a printed copy of their book in their hands.

Whether you dream of sharing family history, educating others, or building a writing career, Tippett says the workshop’s goal is simply “to help you share your story.”

Since 2020, Tippett has self-published five urban fantasy novels and a children’s book, with her titles making it into the top 100 on Amazon in Australia, the UK, and Canada. A self-described “secret rider of dragons,” she blends mystical worlds with real-world wisdom – and now, she’s passing it on.

To learn more or book a spot in the workshop, scan the QR code or visit www.altippett.com

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Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3), in collaboration with Regional Development Australia Greater Whitsundays, has launched the 2025 edition of the Greater Whitsunday Regional Projects Development Register.

The register now features a streamlined, digitally friendly platform that makes accessing economic data easier than ever.

The latest register showcases more than 450 active and planned projects across the Mackay, Isaac, and Whitsunday regions, with a combined value of more than $35 billion. The searchable tool provides a clear snapshot of the region’s economic momentum and outlines opportunities across major industries such as mining, infrastructure, utilities and construction.

Greater Whitsunday Alliance Chief Executive Officer Ms Kylie Porter said the register is more than a directory — it's a tool for shaping the future of the Greater Whitsunday region.

“With a single platform, we’re helping industry and government see what’s possible and act with confidence”.

Ms Porter said GW3 undertakes the Greater Whitsunday Project Development Register to identify key projects valued at over $1 million earmarked for the region.

**Some of the key highlights of this year's data include:

• Construction: $2,827,951,551
• Infrastructure: $1,304,135,456
• Mining: $8,691,558,000
• Utilities: $22,708,290,291

“The Greater Whitsunday region now delivers more than $79 billion in economic output — and the Greater Whitsunday Regional Projects Development Register captures the depth and diversity of that momentum.”

The data has been sourced through CoreLogic, Australia’s leading provider of property-related information and analytics, ensuring high standards of accuracy and insight.

Regional Development Australia Greater Whitsundays Chief Executive Officer Mr Rob Cocco said the collaboration of this register demonstrates the power of aligned regional leadership.

“It provides valuable insight into future workforce needs, housing demand, and even infrastructure requirements, enabling more strategic, collaborative, and timely decision- making.”

“Users can now tailor data access and analysis to their needs, helping to identify not just major projects, but also critical investment gaps and opportunities,” Mr Cocco said.

Mayor of Mackay Regional Council and Chair of Greater Whitsunday Council of Mayors Greg Williamson said the region had entered an exciting growth period with a significant level of investment being experienced in both our traditional and emerging sectors.

“More than $35 billion worth of projects are planned or under construction,” Mayor Williamson emphasised.

“Our key liveability projects include the Mackay Waterfront Priority Development Area (PDA), which is a visionary project that will transform the city,” he said.

“The recent installation of the Pioneer River Pontoon, River Wharves Pavillion and Riverside Link public realm areas have unlocked the true value of our beautiful blue water Pioneer River.

“The Finch Hatton Mountain Bike Trails have put us on the adventure tourism map…and planning for stage two is well under way and it will include an extensive wilderness trail from Eungella through to the Finch Hatton trailhead site.”

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the Whitsunday region is undergoing a significant transformation, with major construction and utilities projects creating new jobs, stimulating investment, and laying the foundation for long-term growth.

He particularly noted that the Whitsunday Skyway will take visitor experience to new heights— both literally and economically.

“It’s a game-changing project that will not only offer panoramic views of the Coral Sea but also inject millions into our local economy through increased visitation, new business opportunities, and year-round tourism appeal.”

Isaac Regional Council Mayor Kelly Vea Vea said, “The Isaac Resources Excellence Precinct in Moranbah is a game-changing project that will drive innovation, strengthen local training pathways and secure a skilled workforce for our region’s future.

“We are also proud to be establishing the Country Universities Centre Isaac, with learning hubs in Moranbah and Clermont that will give everyone the chance to study and succeed without leaving their hometowns.”

The newly upgraded online register is intuitive and fully searchable — enabling users to filter projects by location, industry sector, value, and development stage. Whether you're an investor, policymaker, business operator, or researcher, the platform delivers relevant, real-time data to support strategic decision-making.

To find the register go to www.gw3.com.au and search register in the search bar.

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The 2025 Greater Whitsunday Projects Register highlights 450+ developments worth over $35B, showcasing the region’s booming economic and investment potential

Greater Whitsunday Alliance Chief Executive Officer Ms Kylie Porter

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Sony Camp Returns To Whitsunday Anglican

Whitsunday Anglican School once again proudly hosted the Mackay Sony Foundation Children’s Holiday Camp, held from Saturday 21 to Monday 23 June 2025, marking 11 years of supporting local families through this much-loved initiative.

Sony Camp is a unique programme that offers 18 young people in the region with a disability the opportunity to enjoy a three-day holiday camp experience filled with fun, connection, and care.

This important initiative is Australia-wide and has been hosted in Mackay by Whitsunday Anglican School since 2014.

One hundred and thirty students (in Years 8 - 12) from Whitsunday Anglican School volunteered to help take on the responsibility of caring for children with disabilities over their school holidays.

Fifty Year 11 students had the fundamental role of acting as primary companions and carers of the campers.

Sony Camp Coordinator, Mrs Trisha McHugh, said they were looking forward to the inspirational experience.

“The event is challenging, but incredibly rewarding.

“Over three days our students will support their camper to do everything from swimming and games, to craft, gymnastics and movies! As well as take them through the day-to-day necessities.

“For our campers and their families, Sony Camp creates memories they cherish, and for some campers, the opportunity to do something they wouldn’t normally be able to participate in at home.”

Whitsunday Anglican School Principal, Mr Andrew Wheaton, said the school was proud to participate in such an enriching event for the eleventh year running.

“Sony Camp is a wonderfully transformational leadership experience that allows our students to provide true service in action.

“Students volunteer their time over the school holidays to provide much-needed respite to families of children with disabilities.

“It is also a lot of fun, and it provides a tremendous camp experience for those attending! It was a lot of fun for everyone involved - campers, students and staff alike!

“We are so proud to have hosted our eleventh camp at Whitsunday Anglican School, where we have ensured this wonderful event has continued to serve the Mackay community since 2014,” he said.

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Whitsunday Anglican School proudly hosted its 11th Mackay Sony Foundation Children’s Holiday Camp, offering children with disabilities a joyful three-day experience while students provided care, companionship, and lasting memories. Photos supplied

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The Sugar City Pioneers branch of the Australian Caravan Club (ACC) celebrated their 10th Anniversary at the Sarina Showgrounds on the weekend of 8th of June.

The branch held a Muster over the weekend with 15 vans attending, and many more members joining for a day trip for the Sunday celebration and cake cutting ceremony.

Sarina Showgrounds were selected for the Muster, as it was the location where the branch was formed 10 years ago.

The branch publicity officer Paul Eyles said, “The Showgrounds were great.

“We shared the showgrounds with a Tractor Pulling competition on Saturday with the bonus that the organisers issued all campers with free admission.”

The Australian Caravan Club was founded in September 2006 by a committed group of caravanners who felt that clubs at the time didn’t focus sufficiently on protecting and representing the interest of caravan owners.

Since then, the Australian Caravan Club has grown significantly and now represents owners of all forms of recreational vehicles; caravans, motorhomes, campervans and camper trailers, slide on campers and fifth wheelers throughout Australia.

Members Gordon and Laural Rollinson had hosted several get togethers of ACC members in the region prior to the formal meeting at the Sarina Showgrounds 10 years ago.

As the ACC was growing, one of the ACC Board members at the time arranged a meeting at the Sarina Showgrounds with local area members along with members from the Rockhampton ACC branch with the aim of starting an ACC branch in Mackay.

Paul says the meeting was successful as a secretary was engaged and the Sugar City Pioneers were formed.

“We were lucky enough to have most of the original executive members cut the 10th anniversary cake, with the original treasurer travelling from Innes Park near Bundaberg for the weekend.

“As with any caravan muster, the local community of Sarina benefited with members visiting local attractions, pubs, clubs, butcher, bakeries and coffee shops.

“The branch has been very fortunate in having keen and hard-working members who have arranged numerous musters, dinners, casual picnics in a park, information days, and of course two Christmas Dinners per year.”

Regular social outings are important events, as they allow an easy get-together of members to catch up, as not all can attend musters.

The North Qld branches, (Rockhampton, Mackay Townsville, Cairns) have held several joint musters which have been a great success, considering the great distances we must travel, compared to our sister branches in the southern areas.

The Sugar City Pioneers certainly lives up to the Australian Caravan Club motto, “Where friendships and adventure begin”.

“We’re looking forward to many more years of travelling, friendship, learning new skills and good health.”

Find out more about the Club, by visiting the Australian Caravan Club website or Facebook page.  The Sugar City Pioneers can also be contacted through the website.

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The Sugar City Pioneers branch of the Australian Caravan Club celebrated its 10th anniversary with a weekend muster at Sarina Showgrounds, honouring a decade of travel, friendship, and community connection. Photos supplied

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A group of Mackay locals and businesses have rallied together in a heartfelt campaign to honour Leah Smith, a much-loved community member who tragically lost her life to an asbestos-related disease.

After learning of Leah’s avoidable death, caused by inhaling asbestos fibres as a child, supporters across the region united to help raise awareness and prevent others from suffering the same fate.

It was just eight months and one day after diagnosis, when Philip Smith’s beloved 49-year-old wife and the mother of their two sons, Leah, tragically lost her battle with malignant mesothelioma on 22 August 2024.

“Every year, around 4,000 Australians die from avoidable asbestos-related diseases because they fail to take the warnings about disturbing asbestos seriously,” said Mr Smith.

“With one of Leah’s final wishes being to generate awareness of the dangers of asbestos and the hideous diseases associated with exposure to the fibres including mesothelioma that took our Leah’s life; we’re doing everything in our power to honour our promise to Leah to help save lives,” he said.

Working in partnership with Advocacy Australia’s Asbestos Education Committee who conduct the annual National Asbestos Awareness Month campaign (November) to promote safe asbestos management at www.asbestosawareness.com.au, Philip Smith’s ‘Ride in Shorts for Leah’ initiative and his team of dedicated volunteers began their lifesaving mission to prevent others from suffering Leah’s same tragic and avoidable fate.

“To ensure Leah’s legacy is about saving lives, our national ‘Ride in Shorts for Leah’ campaign is working hard to increase awareness of the dangers of asbestos while raising vital funds to support the vital work of the Asbestos Education Committee,” Mr Smith said.

Leah was a well-regarded horsewoman so to continue to help save lives in her honour, Phillip and his dedicated team of supporters including the highly respected horsewomen Stephanie Wood and Jade Flack are continuing their mission through the ‘Ride in Shorts for Leah Auction’.

“We’re deeply grateful to Stephanie, Kath, Brett, Rebecca, Mark, Tonie and Synergy Performance for generously donating the stallion stud services of My Shining Ashwood, Highbrow Smart Pep, Rumblefish, Picasoes Panther, Drovers Romance, Oaks Redemption, Westlide Choice, Shonbar Cool Ability and Titanium Blue, respectively.

“We’re also grateful for the support of Ampol Beaconsfield and DMR Leisure, Clermont Veterinary Boarding Kennels and Petstock and Chrystle & Co, BMC Rural, BCF Mackay, Belyando Mitre 10 and Bling n Speed for donating high value prizes to the pool,” he said.

“With the total commercial value of auction items being around $42,000, bidding started at half the full value price with 100% of all funds raised donated to Advocacy Australia’s Asbestos Education Committee via the Ride in Shorts for Leah mycause donation page www.mycause.com.au/ride-in-shorts”

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Leah Smith with her family in July 2024

Leah aged 5

Leah Smith’s passing has united Mackay locals in the “Ride in Shorts for Leah” campaign, turning tragedy into a nationwide asbestos-awareness and fundraising movement. Photos supplied

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