This week is National Volunteer Week where we celebrate the power of volunteering to bring people together, create lasting relationships and strengthen our communities. The theme this year is ‘Connecting Communities’ and I can hand on heart say the volunteers across the Whitsunday region have an enormous impact in ensuring our communities are thriving and inclusive.

The breadth of volunteer groups in our region is far-reaching – from the SES, marine rescue crews and wildlife carers to museum guides, event organisers and junior sports coaches – just a few examples of the many locals giving their time to strengthen our communities.

Another great example of volunteer groups is the Rotary Club of Airlie Beach and last Saturday I had the pleasure of opening the Rotary Impact Seminar 2025 at our beautiful Shute Harbour Marine Terminal and delivering the keynote address.

I spoke about Council’s focus for enhancing liveability across the Whitsundays and strengthening the connection between our communities. Community organisations like Rotary play a vital role in supporting this connection. Their tireless work supporting local projects, fundraising efforts, and community wellbeing makes a real difference in people’s lives.

I also had the chance to experience another fantastic volunteer-led initiative – the Whitsunday Brahmans Family Field Day in Proserpine. It was a brilliant afternoon with the family – perfect weather, a great crowd and so much fun for the kids, from face painting and wildlife encounters to tug-of-war and more. It’s days like this that truly showcase the spirit of the Whitsundays – welcoming and connected.

The month of May is Queensland Small Business Month and I’m excited to announce we’re backing our local businesses! Whitsunday Regional Council is partnering with the Department of State Development, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning to deliver a free one-day event on Wednesday 28 May at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre.

The event will include one-on-one sessions with Council’s Procurement Team, tendering and capability workshops and practical guidance on becoming a Local Buy supplier – all designed to give local businesses the tools and support they need to grow. Registrations are now open via Eventbrite ticketing website.

Don’t miss this opportunity to gain practical tips and connect directly with experts who can help your business grow. Register now and make the most of this free workshop.

Whether it’s volunteering time or growing a business, it’s the efforts of our local people that keep the Whitsundays connected and thriving - and I thank you all.

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Sign Up To The Whitsundays First ‘Masterclass For Mums’

Whitsunday mums and local practitioners with specialised skills are being invited to participate in the region’s first ‘Masterclass for Mums’, a short, paid program that aims to support maternal wellbeing and help families thrive.

This brand-new initiative is designed for mums of all ages and stages and will run four times over the next 12 months.

Program creator and founder of Motherhood & Matrescence, Amanda Jackson, said this was not a ‘how-to-parent’ class.

“We’re going to be flipping the script on mothering to explore what happens to women as they mother,” Ms Jackson said.

“Ultimately, I want mums to finish this program feeling good about themselves, feeling confident as mums, and having a deeper trust in their own instincts, their mothering practices and who they are – but to do this we need to look at the expectations they’re carrying and remind them that they matter,” she said.

Approved and funded by the Queensland Mental Health Commission, each of the four cohorts will cover the same five topics of maternal emotions, expectations of motherhood, invisible loads, re-framing self-care, and matrescence – the transformations every mother goes through but few are told about.

“These topics have been deliberately chosen because we know they are related to those feelings of identity loss and burnout that mothers are experiencing regardless of whether their children are tinies, toddlers, tweens, or teens, and that seeing these topics in a new way positively affects women’s wellbeing, restoring their agency and self-esteem, and enhancing the mothering experience,” Ms Jackson explained.

To ensure measurable results, participants will be asked to complete a survey at the beginning and end of the program, capturing changes in their attitudes towards themselves and their mothering.

By engaging additional guest speakers to present their own high-quality information and resources, Ms Jackson is seeking to maximise the opportunity for mums and showcase the range of maternal support services available in the Whitsundays.

“For me it’s the collaboration here that’s key; we have a lot of highly skilled people in our community and part of this program is about showcasing our community and making those skills more accessible,” she said.

Practitioners will be paid for their presentation and program participants will receive $250 on completion of the course.

The program will run within school terms, starting in Term 3 during the week commencing July 28. It will be held at Motherhood & Matrescence, 121 Shute Harbour Road, Cannonvale. Places are limited.

For more information or to register your interest, visit www.motherhoodandmatrescence.com.

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Program creator and founder of Motherhood & Matrescence, Amanda Jackson, said this was not a ‘how-to-parent’ class. Photo supplied

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In Bowen, Coastal Esthétique Skin Clinic, led by aesthetic nurse Leonie, is revolutionising local access to professional skincare treatments and products. Leonie’s passion for aesthetic nursing was ignited in 2012, but after acquiring her Diploma of Midwifery, she focused on consolidating her skills in this area. While traveling Australia with her husband and welcoming their children into their lives, she took the time to  nurture her clinical expertise. After settling in Bowen, Leonie recognised a critical gap: residents faced long waits for visiting aesthetic nurses or long distances for expert advice and  treatments. Whilst balancing the demands of  hospital shifts and motherhood, she saw a chance to serve her community and leapt at the opportunity.

With over 20 years of clinical nursing experience, Leonie launched Coastal Esthétique to provide reliable, high-quality care to locals.

“It’s about bringing professional treatments to Bowen with convenience and consistent follow-up,” said Leonie.

The clinic offers medical-grade chemical peels, micro-needling for skin rejuvenation, and enhanced microdermabrasion with sonophoresis, an ultrasound technology that maximises skincare product absorption. Personalised consultations craft evidence-based plans to soften fine lines, restore facial volume, or address asymmetry to create professional and natural results.

Leonie’s vision is a fusion of passion and purpose, ensuring Bowen residents obtain access to cutting-edge aesthetic services without compromise. Coastal Esthétique empowers clients with confidence, offering tailored care which enhances natural beauty. From its heart in Bowen, the clinic strengthens community ties, making professional treatment and care  accessible locally with pride and skill.

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Coastal Esthetique Skin Clinic Bowen: Photo Provided
Book Now With Coastal Esthetique: Photo Provided

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Last Wednesday, the Bowen Chamber of Commerce hosted a meeting featuring a speaker from Muroona Gardens and QCoal. The  board of Muroona  outlined its role as a not-for-profit aged care provider since 1964, employing 165 locals and offering residential care, home care, and independent living units.

They emphasised challenges such as uncertainties in funding, nurse shortages, and rising dementia rates and consequential care demands, alongside plans for 24 new dementia care rooms funded by a $14.7 million grant.

QCoal, a family-owned mining company, spoke about its economic contributions, employing 580 directly and supporting local suppliers. They discussed environmental efforts, rehabilitating 700 hectares, and challenges like carbon taxes and regulatory hurdles.

Both entities briefly noted community excitement for the highly anticipated Gilmour Space Technologies rocket launch in Bowen and the joint Australia-US military exercise, Talisman Sabre, which will spur economic activity and showcase Bowen’s growing regional significance

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Bruce Hedditch Of Bowen Chamber of Commerce and Dave Nebauer Chairman of Muroona Gardens
Paul Hellery, Chris and Trish Nebaur
Jo Shepherd, Karen Hiyer, Allison Murrell
Bruce Hedditch Speaking
Neil Holloway and Kim Shirley
Chris Hanson, Corrine Williams, Helen Woodhouse
Dave Nebauer, Jodie Masunu, Megan Murray, Sally Vico
Dave Nebauer Speaking

Photo credit: Munir Kilic

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When the going gets tough, the tough get going!

At the beginning of May, I knew this would be the busiest month of the year, and I braced myself for impact. Three kids' birthdays, two weekends away, one magazine deadline, staff on holiday, family visits, and... we’re moving house!

The last three weeks have been a whirlwind, and I think many of us can relate to the madness of mid-year. It feels like the year is flying by at full speed, and May seems to be the peak of it all.

Despite all this, I hope we all manage to find the calm in the storm.

In fact, I was chatting with a colleague yesterday about my tendency for chaos – that rushing around that can send others into a flurry. A lot of self-reflection followed, and I’ve vowed to slow down, find my calm, and be the leader my team deserves.

Next week, some of the team will be heading to the Queensland Country Press Awards. For those who follow our paper regularly, you’ll remember that last year we brought home the title of Best Free Newspaper in Queensland – beating 16 other entrants to claim victory.

Whether we win an award next Friday night or not, I believe we’re all winners for the incredible work we do every day.

It’s hard to believe that a team of 15 dedicated individuals produces four weekly newspapers and two bi-monthly magazines. I’m truly grateful for everyone’s efforts and look forward to many more editions to come.

Rach

Quote of the week: "When making plans, think big. When making progress, think small" (James Clear)

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The Queensland Government has launched the exciting new “All the Best” campaign, celebrating the State’s favourite produce and places, ahead of Queensland Day on June 6.

From the best pie to the best pint, Queenslanders across the State are being encouraged to put their town on the map and vote for their local ‘bests’ across 15 categories, including:

• Fish and chips
• Meat pie
• Coffee
• Bahn Mi
• Parmi
• Ice cream
• Burger
• Beer
• Pub
• Café
• Event
• Big thing
• Beach
• Landmark
• Natural attraction

The Queensland Government launched the ‘All the Best’ campaign in the Wide Bay to kickstart Queensland Day celebrations.

Premier David Crisafulli said this Queensland Day is an opportunity to celebrate everything great about the state.

“We live in the best place in the world, and there is so much to be proud of and celebrate this Queensland Day,” Premier Crisafulli said.

“Queenslanders know what makes our State so special, from the best spot for a Parmi to their favourite beach. I want them to share what they love about where they live.”

Visit www.qld.gov.au/qldday to vote for ‘All the Bests’.

The Queensland Bests will be announced this Queensland Day, 6 June.

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Locals in Jubilee Pocket may have noticed some welcome changes at their neighbourhood store, with new owners Nathan Parker and Tayla Clout taking the reins in September last year and steadily breathing new life into the business.

Alongside Tayla, Nathan has been working hard to restore the shop to its full potential, making it a place the community can rely on and be proud of.

“We are rebuilding the business, trying to bring it back up to a standard that the community wants and needs over here,” said Nathan.

Having lived in Airlie Beach before moving to Jubilee Pocket a year ago, Nathan says the tight-knit nature of the neighbourhood is something special.

“It's just down the road, but it's a different community over here, and we really love it. This side of town has a really small close-knit community,” added Nathan.

Since taking over, Nathan has focused on expanding the store’s range with a strong emphasis on supporting other local businesses.

“We’ve added a lot of new ranges since we’ve taken over, we have MBW Meats, Fishi Seafood, Taste of Africa biltong,” he said.

“We are trying to source a few local products, wherever we can.

“We also like to try and give back to the community whether it be, supporting a local business by buying their products or donating to the local footy club.”

Nathan said he has also focused on increasing the options at the deli at Friendly Grocer.

“We are revamping the deli at the moment to give a bit more of an offering, so lots of different hot food options, hot chooks, pies, sausage rolls, and cold rolls too,” Nathan said.

While the store carries all the essentials from fruit, veg, meat and eggs to snacks, pantry staples and scooped ice cream, it’s the personalised service that makes the difference.

If Friendly Grocer doesn’t have the product you need Nathan said they are happy to get that product in.

“For example, there was a customer the other week that wanted a particular brand of coconut cream, so we'll get that in for them. Somebody else that wanted a particular flavour of Lolly, so we got that in, and it turns out it's quite popular with other people as well,” he exclaimed.

Nathan hopes to remind locals that the store is under new management and continues to improve.

It changed hands about seven months ago, and the team at Friendly Grocer are doing their best to keep making it better, and are committed to making the store work for the community.

Nathan and Tayla, who recently welcomed their first child, are excited for what’s ahead and grateful for the warm support from the Jubilee Pocket community.

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Nathan, baby Theodore and Tayla welcome you all to Friendly Grocer

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New Program Boosts Student Success At Bowen High

In 2025, Bowen State High School has launched the Hands on Learning (HOLA) program as part of its Flexispace learning initiative. This practical in-school program aims to enhance student engagement, wellbeing, and attendance by providing opportunities for students to uncover their talents and achieve success through meaningful, hands-on projects.

HOLA is an initiative of 54reasons.org.au and supports students to develop the social and emotional capabilities. These are essential skills needed for students to understand themselves and others more effectively. Students are also able to manage their relationships, lives, and learning better.

Head of Wellbeing Mr Owen Derrick leads the program every Wednesday with a group of students from Years 8-10. Mr Derrick values the program explaining that, the students positively engage in the practical aspects of the program.

“We start the day with a wellbeing check in, followed by completing practical projects around the school or in the community. Students make their own morning tea and lunch in our Flexispace kitchen,” he explained.

“We eat lunch together in a positive environment. Recent projects include, building new gardens, cleaning up school grounds, building tables and chairs and cooking a BBQ at the Bowen Neighbourhood centre.”

Students who have engaged in the program this year believe the program has been positive for their behaviour and engagement.

Some of the comments included:

“Cooking together is my favourite part of HOLA. The frustrating part at times is getting others to clean up as sir likes the kitchen to sparkle. We are definitely getting better at that!”

“I was not behaving or following instructions. I now look forward to HOLA on Wednesdays. It is a shame every day of the week isn’t a HOLA-DAY!”

“I am now getting along with students more than I used to because I have confidence to speak up.”

“My behaviour in class has changed heaps. Last year, I used to get sent to the office every week.  This year, I have only had 3 buddy class referrals.”

Bowen State High School received a Community Partnership grant from Abbot Point Operations to support the Hands-on Learning program in 2025. This partnership has allowed Bowen State High School to purchase tools, food and resources to enact this program.

Principal of Bowen State High School Robert Harris said he is thankful for the grant.

“I appreciate the support of Abott Point Operations as the grant allows our school to create opportunities for our students to realise their full potential,” he said.

“Whilst the Hands on Learning (HOLA) program is in its initial phase, we have seen improvements in student attendance and an increase in self-confidence for students to engage in community projects.

“Learning within the four walls of a classroom is a struggle for some students, so hands-on learning increases their engagement and self-worth so they can be successful in the future.”

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BMA CQ Rescue has launched its 2025 Annual Appeal with the goal of raising $250,000 to help continue delivering critical, life-saving care across Central and North Queensland.

The appeal comes after a hectic start to the year, with the helicopter rescue service flying 199 missions in the first quarter alone. From floods and horse-riding accidents to cardiac emergencies and snake bites, the service has been a lifeline for countless residents in times of need.

Among the missions this year, BMA CQ Rescue played a crucial role in locating a man lost in the Cathu State Forest, spending nearly eight hours searching for him after his vehicle became bogged in waterlogged terrain.

The Bowen region was the most visited area in the first quarter, with cardiac-related emergencies being the most common reason for callouts.

“Every mission we fly is made possible by the support of our community,” said BMA CQ Rescue CEO Tim Healee. “We never know when or where the next emergency will happen, but we do know that with your help, we can keep saying ‘yes’ when the call comes in.”

One local resident who understands the importance of the service is Rebekah McKinnon, who has twice been flown by BMA CQ Rescue from Moranbah to Mackay for urgent medical treatment. Her story, along with powerful images and the 2025 Annual Appeal video, is available as part of this year’s campaign.

No matter the time of day or how remote the location, BMA CQ Rescue remains ready to respond 24/7. The service relies heavily on community donations to remain operational.

To help keep this vital service in the sky, residents are encouraged to support the 2025 Annual Appeal. Every dollar counts and could be the difference in someone’s life.

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The Bowen Pipeline Project is on track to receive approval from the Queensland Government later this year, promising to unlock significant economic, agricultural, and employment benefits for the Whitsundays and surrounding regions.

Bowen Pipeline Company representative, Sean Brown confirmed public advertising for the project’s Ministerial Infrastructure Designation (MID) application commenced on the 4th of April.

“We are on target for the State approval, with Commonwealth approval shortly after that,” said Mr Brown.

“The project is on track to achieve the timeline of soil turning within 12 months.”

The pipeline, stretching 182 kilometres from the Burdekin River near Home Hill to Bowen, will deliver reliable water to local growers, the Bowen township, and surrounding communities including Gumlu and Guthalungra. It will support North Queensland’s largest winter vegetable growing area, helping to secure water for over 250 million kilograms of fruit and vegetables produced annually.

The project has already attracted more than $4 million from 40 local growers and industry investors, as well as a $5 million Commonwealth grant for design and engineering. It will create 200 jobs during construction and 1,200 ongoing positions once operational.

The Bowen Pipeline will also support emerging green energy industries, with the capacity to generate up to $1 billion in annual economic income from renewable sectors such as ammonia, sustainable aviation fuel and bio-diesel. It will supply water to the Abbot Point Green Energy Export Precinct by 2028.

Significantly, the project includes equity ownership for the Juru and Bindal Peoples, an Australian first, and will be built using Australian-made HDPE pipe technology to reduce emissions and transport needs.

“We’re incredibly grateful to the broad range of supporters and stakeholders who share our vision of developing North Queensland into a commercial and industrial hub,” added Mr Brown.

For more information, visit www.bowenpipeline.com.au.

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The Bowen Pipeline Project is set to deliver reliable water, jobs, and economic growth to the Whitsundays region, with state approval expected later this year (Photo Supplied)

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Protecting Local Wildlife

Covering a vast region from Collinsville to St Lawrence and west to mining towns, Fauna Rescue Whitsundays is a volunteer-run network dedicated to helping sick, injured, and orphaned native wildlife.

Operating a 24/7 hotline, the group coordinates rescues and matches animals with trained species-specific carers.

President Kerry Aspland, involved for over 15 years, leads the macropod rescues and helps manage the team of responders.

“We have first responders that go out and collect the sick, injured animal. Then they speak to the coordinators,” she explained.

“I'm a coordinator of macropods. They then would ring me, and then I will best place the animal to where I know it's going to fit in with that group. We have coordinators in each different area.”

Kerry’s passion began 30 years ago when she rescued a joey on the road to Townsville. Now, with expert support and growing community awareness, she hopes to see even more engagement—especially for hotline operators and bird carers in Mackay.

Every rescue aims for release, using a “soft release” method that eases animals back into the wild.

“We don't just throw them out in the bush and go, there you go, fend for yourself. We support, feed them, and then slowly open their gates so they can go free,” explained Kerry.

“They'll generally come back for a few days, and then they disappear. They become wild again.”

Fauna Rescue Whitsundays continues to play a vital role in preserving the region’s precious wildlife.

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Fauna Rescue Whitsundays Natalie Lock, Gary Brown, Kerry Aspland, and Di Forster at the recent Rock Wallaby Festival in Proserpine. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Are you ready for the 9th Annual Cruisin’ Whitsunday Show & Shine – Car & Bike Show!

This year will be a weekend to remember and to delight both locals and visitors from across the state.

Set to the amazing back drop of the Coral Sea Marina the event is expected to be bigger than last year aiming for over 150 vehicles on display.

Hosted by Whitsunday Cruisin’ Car Club. There is a simplified format for 2025, the main event will take place on Saturday 31st May from 8am – 11.30am. Entry is free, so the whole family is invited to come along and marvel at the awesome vehicles on display.

Due to the success of the ‘Kids Section’ children are invited to show off their ‘Pride and Joy’. Anything from pedal car, go-kart, scooter, electric motor, bike, trike or homemade creation.

The ever popular ‘Rocker Cover Racing’ will take place from 10am, so get your Rocker Cover ready for some high stakes racing action.

The Show and Shine – Car & Bike Show is free to enter your pride and joy. It is also open to all cars and bikes of all ages, makes and models. But you do need to register via the WCCC website at www.whitsundaycruisincar.com.au before 12 noon Friday 30th May 2025. No entries will be accepted on the day!

WHAT: Show & Shine – Car & Bike Show
WHERE: Coral Sea Marina Gardens
WHEN: Saturday 31st May (8am – 11.30am)

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Bowen’s beloved community radio station, 95.1 GemFM, is proudly celebrating its 25th birthday—marking a milestone in local broadcasting and community spirit.

The station’s story began in 1996 when Brian Winterburn, the current President, was approached by Pastor John Robertshaw (deceased) to support a group keen on establishing a community radio station.

Brian joined forces with the late Robert Smart, a computer genius, who was already working to form an incorporated association.

After building a committed volunteer base and holding public concerts and raffles to raise funds, the team pushed through licensing requirements and performed a highly successful test transmission.

With support from the Community Broadcasting Foundation, GemFM secured funding to go on air permanently.

Key early contributors included Wayne Power, Leon Mitchell,  Jarad Mea, Suzin Tait, Wendy Ward, Gavin Volker, Roger James, Glenda Beverly, and many more. GemFM received its official Broadcast Licence in May 2000.

Though the station faced tough times, the commitment and passion of its volunteers kept the dream alive. Today, GemFM stands as a testament to grassroots perseverance and community pride.

Now 25 years on, 95.1 GemFM has been the heart of Bowen’s airwaves—championing local talent, sharing vital news, and connecting the community through music and stories that matter.

More than just a radio station, GemFM has become part of Bowen’s identity, giving a voice to clubs, associations, and local businesses.

Tony Fossey of GemFM said a heartfelt thankyou to listners and volunteers alike.

“Thanks to the dedication of our volunteers and the unwavering support of our listeners and sponsors, GemFM has evolved while staying true to its roots,” he said.

“As we celebrate this milestone, we look forward to an exciting future—continuing to inform, entertain, and unite the Bowen community for many years to come.

“Join us as we celebrate 25 years of music, connection, and community spirit at 95.1 GemFM—still proudly broadcasting from Bowen to the Whitsundays and beyond.”

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The crew of GemFM. Photo supplied

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The Whitsundays was well represented at the Townsville Caravan, 4x4 and outdoor Adventure Expo on the weekend. Leanne Abernethy from Bowen Tourism and Business and Dea Huvonen from Tourism Whitsundays manned a Whitsundays stand.

Other local operators at the expo included Big 4 Adventure Whitsundays and Cruise Whitsundays.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business Leanne Abernethy said the drive market was very important to the local tourism economy and the visitors at the expo were very interested in visiting the region.

“We spoke to hundreds of people who had been to Bowen and Airlie Beach already and were planning to return, as well as hundreds more who showed a very keen interest in what we have to offer here in paradise," she said.

“The response from everyone we spoke to was very positive.

“Opportunities like this are invaluable to our tourism industry as we have face-to-face contact with so many people and we can share our local knowledge and experiences.

Leanne also said they were given prizes.

“We were provided with prizes from Wings Sailing Adventures as well as three Bowen caravan parks - Rose Bay Beach, Harbour Lights and Tropical Beach.

“The visitors were very excited about the chance to win.

“We know from past expos that many people who speak to us about what the area has to offer become visitors in the future.”

Contributed with thanks to Bowen Tourism & Business

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Leanne Abernethy from Bowen Tourism and Business and Dea Huvonen from Tourism Whitsundays. Photo supplied

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A record-breaking $2,500 was raised at this year’s Biggest Morning Tea, marking the most successful event to date for the local organisers. Now in its 20th year, the annual fundraiser has become a staple on the community calendar, bringing people together in support of the Cancer Council.

This year’s success was made possible through a new collaboration with Club Whitsunday, who provided the venue and generously catered the event.

“It’s the most we’ve ever raised,” said Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre Executive Officer Rebecca Woods.

“Being in collaboration with Club Whitsunday, we were able to open it up to a much larger audience than we have been capable of holding at the actual Neighbourhood Centre.”

Guests enjoyed a warm and welcoming atmosphere, excellent food, and a wide selection of raffle prizes to suit all budgets, with $5, $20, and $50 ticket categories.

Each year, funds raised are donated to the Cancer Council, supporting vital research and services. But just as important is the opportunity for those affected by cancer to come together.

“Every year the money that's raised goes to the Cancer Council but it's a really important morning, more so for people who have lived experience with cancer to be able to come together and enjoy good company and good food,” said Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre Executive Officer Rebecca Woods.

The Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre is already looking forward to next year’s morning tea, with hopes to build on the momentum.

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Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre - Rebecca Woods, Jess Barr, Dean Harrison, Tamara Noble and Casey Peterson

Rena Taylor and Rayley Head
Diane Harris, Allison Ladders, Lyn Roberts, and Sue MacMillan
The Morning Tea was well attended
Helen Meehan and Sharon Cousins

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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