Hi Everyone,

It’s hard to believe that by the time you are all reading this I will have shared the stage with the Premier of Queensland David Crisafulli at the official launch event for Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper.

I am writing this in bed on Wednesday morning before I join my work colleague Trish on the four drive to Ingham where the event will be held this evening.

I’ve met David a few times now, in fact earlier this year he presented us with the award for Best Free Newspaper in Queensland at the Queensland Country Press Awards.

He was the Leader of the Opposition then.

I met him again when Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm invited him to the region in August. It was then that I planted the seed about our new newspaper Hinchinbrook Life.

At the time, I knew he would be interested because he was from Ingham originally and had started his career as a cadet journalist at the local paper.

It was early October, just before the State election, that I asked Amanda Camm to forward David a formal invitation to the launch of Hinchinbrook Life, but as expected, I received no response.

After the election, I sent another email, this time it was to the Premier.

Again, I received no response.

Then, when I was in Ingham a few weeks ago I received a call that changed everything – it was from the Premiers department – he wanted to come to the launch!

A few hours and 10 phone calls later, we had formally confirmed the Premier’s attendance at the official launch party this evening.

There is no doubt we have been pretty lucky with this invite – the fact that the Premier is originally from Ingham and also started his career as a journalist definitely worked in our favour! – even so, this is a big opportunity not only for Hinchinbrook Life and Life Publishing Group, but also to shine the light on all regional newspapers and I am very excited to be part of it.

Rach

Quote of the Week: “Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work” (Thomas Edison)

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Bowen State School’s Year 11 Certificate III Fitness class has been spotlighted and congratulated for their outstanding efforts and commitment to organising a wonderful fundraising event which combined both fitness and community spirit.

The students took part in the push-up challenge whereby they each performed as many push-ups as possible in succession to a timed cadence. With unwavering strength and determination, the students received waves of support from local businesses, leading them to successfully perform 351 strict push-ups and raise over $800 to support families in need this Christmas!

The funds raised will be donated to the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre to purchase food, vouchers, and toys to spread holiday cheer and make a real difference within the wider community.

Staff, students and families of the Bowen State High School shared a massive thank you to the businesses who generously donated a dollar value per push-up including Muscle Studio Bowen, Robinson Mining Services, Sargent Sport and Amp’d Fitness.

“Your support has truly helped make this initiative a success and has brought smiles to many faces this holiday season,” shared Bowen State High School Principal, Robert Harris.

“Well done to our Year 11 Fitness students for showcasing not only their physical strength but also their community spirit.”

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Bowen State School’s Year 11 Certificate III Fitness completed 351 push-ups as part of their push-up challenge.

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On Sunday 1 December, Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, visited the Bowen Delta Rural Fire Brigade to share his appreciation for their invaluable service to the community, and showcase the positive impact of the Federal Government Grants program.

“It was good to catch up with our local federal member, Andrew Willcox who popped out for a chat to our members and to thank them for their service to our community,” shared the Bowen Delta Rural Fire Brigade.

Through the 2023/24 Volunteer Grant Program, the Bowen Delta Rural Fire Brigade were able to purchase essential Makita tools from Home Hardware Bowen, which have already proven essential.

Although the recent rainfall led to the cancellation of the Brigade’s Open Day, the wet weather has come as a welcome relief for the shire’s dry landscape, minimising the risk of grass fires.

Andrew Willcox encourages community groups, small businesses and individuals to explore the range of Federal Government Grants available, highlighting their potential to provide much needed resources and support. For more information, visit www.andrewwillcox.com.au/grants.

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Andrew Willcox and members of the Bowen Delta Rural Fire Brigade with their new equipment.

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Gallagher Harbisher Thomson’s beloved blue heeler puppy, Dinghy, has been missing since Sunday, November 10, and is feared to have been stolen from his owner’s fishing boat in Port Douglas in the dead of night while Gallagher was in the hospital.
The 12-week-old pup has been a source of great companionship for Gallagher, and his disappearance has left his owner deeply distressed and anxious about his safety.
Just days before Dinghy went missing, Gallagher and his father had an interaction with a man to whom they had offered assistance. They later grew concerned for the man’s well-being and, on top of that, for their own safety.
As a precaution, they called the police. However, despite their concerns, law enforcement never responded to their call. Since then, the man, who is from Airlie Beach, has left the Port Douglas area and has not been seen or heard from again.
Gallagher, who is a fisherman from Cooya Beach, is increasingly worried that Dinghy may have been stolen and is being hidden somewhere in Airlie Beach.
The young blue heeler, who was not yet registered at the time of his disappearance, was last seen tied up on the deck of Gallagher's boat at the Port Douglas Yacht Club. He had enough rope to access the nearby wharf.
“He means a hell of a lot to me,’’ Gallagher, 30, said.
“I’ve been doing it pretty tough since he has been missing.”
Dinghy is a purebred blue heeler, with striking features that make him easily identifiable. One of the most distinctive characteristics that set him apart from other blue heeler puppies is his kinked tail.
At the time of his disappearance, Gallagher’s father, John, was staying on his own boat at the Port Douglas Yacht Club, which is moored next to Gallagher’s boat. John was looking after Dinghy while Gallagher was away, and had tied the puppy securely to a shelter on the deck of the boat.
The puppy had enough length of rope to move freely around the deck, even accessing the nearby wharf. Dinghy was last heard yelping at approximately 3:40am on Sunday, November 10, but when John awoke around 5am Dinghy was gone.
Gallagher and his family have been desperately searching for Dinghy ever since, reaching out to the local community, friends, and acquaintances in hopes of finding him. They have also posted notices on social media and local message boards, but so far, there have been no credible sightings or information that would lead them to Dinghy.
This story was brought to us by Newsport Daily, an independent newspaper in Port Douglas.
If you have any information or have seen Dinghy, please contact editor@newsport.com.au.

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In November, Bowen State High School celebrated the end of the school year with their Industry Awards Ceremony. This ceremony showcases their students' commitment and passion towards Vocational Education and acknowledges the strong association their school has with local industry and employers.

This year Bowen State High School’s Guest Speaker was Kurt Gaudry, an Electrical Maintainer from Aurizon and a previous student of Bowen State High School. Kurt shared his journey through his career and some important messages for students in how they might progress through their own.

They also celebrated 11 students completing their Certificate II Engineering with Aiden Otto being named the TAFE student of the Year.

A further 11 students completed Certificate II in Automotive, with Ashleigh Boyce named the TAFE student of year.

The school also celebrated 18 students completing studies in Certificate II and III courses including Fitness, Outdoor Recreation, Health, Animal Studies and Financial Services.

This ceremony allows Bowen State Highschool to recognise the long-term support of employers who take on Traineeship and Apprenticeship students. They acknowledged Abbott Point Operations, Hillery Group, Kidz at the Beach, Tres Belle Skin, Bowen Flexi Care, Murrona Gardens and LJ Hooker for their support and assistance for students completing Certificate II and III traineeships and apprenticeships with them in 2024.

The school also acknowledged students who had completed courses to assist in their future pathways including Boat and Jet Ski Licenses, White Cards and Work Experience.

Bowen State High School is excited for 2025, and the expanded offerings in vocational learning, including more certificate courses, a strengthened partnership with TAFE Queensland and more students being engaged by local businesses to complete their traineeship and apprenticeship training.

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Rob Harris Principal Bowen SHS, TAFE student of the year Ashleigh Boyce, Laurie Cox TAFE Bowen
Raylene Doyle from LJ Hooker with School Based Trainee: Jayla Vaituliao
School Based Trainees with Employee representatives.
School Based Trainees Amy Russell and Francis Meeks with Hillery Group staff: Georgia, Laila and Kelly

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Mayor Ry Collins thought he was the one in charge – that is, until a group of sharp young minds from St Catherine's Catholic College took their seats at the boardroom table!
In a lively and inspiring meeting, a group of enthusiastic students met with the mayor to share their insights on the importance of recycling and waste reduction in the Whitsundays.
These bright young eco-warriors are leading the charge to teach adults in the community how to properly dispose of waste and reduce environmental impact.
With the help of Council’s new fleet of waste trucks, emblazoned with bright and important messages about recycling, these students are making sure no one can claim ignorance when it comes to waste management. The message is simple but powerful: Get it right, or risk being outsmarted by a group of school kids!
In a fun twist, the students challenged everyone – from residents to local leaders – to step up their recycling game and prove they can match the commitment and knowledge of these young environmental champions.
Whitsunday Regional Council expressed special thanks to their Eco Warriors at St Catherine's Catholic College, including Nakai Ngoroyemoto, Ms McQuoid-Mason, and Ms Uhl, along with JJ Richards.
Are you ready to impress these young leaders with your recycling skills? The challenge is on!

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The St Catherines Catholic College Eco Warriors

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Whitsunday Regional Council invite community members to celebrate Australia Day at the Airlie Beach Foreshore on Sunday 26 January, from 5pm to 8pm!
The celebrations begin with recognising community achievements in the official awards presentation at 5pm, followed by a family-friendly evening of fun, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display at 8pm.
The Whitsunday Regional Council Australia Day Awards celebrate the outstanding achievements and contributions of individuals and organisations across the region. These awards provide a platform to publicly honour those who have made a remarkable impact or are exceptional achievers within the community.
If you know someone or a community group committed to making the Whitsunday region a better place, the council invite you to nominate them for a 2025 Australia Day Award and help them celebrate their efforts.
To nominate someone head to the Whitsunday Regional Council page:
whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/australia-day

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Are you passionate about hiking and exploring the breathtaking landscapes of the Whitsundays?
The Whitsunday Regional Council is currently assessing the region’s mainland walking trail network to gauge public interest and demand for upgraded or expanded trails. This feedback will help shape the future of outdoor recreation in the region.
The natural beauty of the Whitsundays is one of the area's greatest assets, and Council is eager to learn whether the current walking trail offerings meet the needs of both residents and visitors.
Currently, the Whitsundays boasts 19 mainland trails, offering a diverse range of experiences in varying lengths, difficulties, and habitats – though not all of these trails are located within bushland environments.
Tim Oberg from Healthy Kids Expo explained that this is great news for the Whitsundays.
“It's an amazing idea to have more walking for the residents of the Whitsundays, he commented.
"One of the easiest ways to get moving is simply by going for a walk. And with the stunning natural beauty of the Whitsundays, there’s no better way to experience it than by exploring the new, purpose-built walking trails."
Tim mentioned that he would like to see the boardwalk extended from Cannonvale Beach, with wider paths to better accommodate cyclists. He also suggested creating shorter, easier trails within Conway National Park, similar to the popular Honeyeater Trail, to make the area more accessible and enjoyable for a wider range of visitors.
“I'm looking forward to hopefully some more trails in the area.”
If you would like to see more trails in the Whitsundays head to Whitsunday Regional Council’s website to fill in the survey:
yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/whitsunday-walking-trails

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Tim Oberg organised a group of kids to climb the Honeyeater Trail in Conway National Park a few years ago. Photo supplied

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Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine is delighted to announce the appointment of Brendon Nothard to their Board.  
“We are excited to have Proserpine industry leader Brendon Nothard join the Board. He is a welcome inclusion, and we look forward to his contribution in 2025 and beyond” said Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine Chairman Mark Henry.
Following completion of his master’s degree in early 2003, Brendon started with a career in banking finishing as an Agricultural Specialist in 2007. He then moved to the sugar industry where he served in various management capacities over 10-years at the South African Cane Growers Association. This included two years as the Senior Regional Services Manager, sitting as Chairman of the local Fire Protection Agency and in an advisory capacity to a regionally based Transport Company.
In 2017 he emigrated to Australia and completed five years at the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries as a Senior Economist based in Mackay. He was then appointed as Manager of CANEGROWERS Proserpine in January 2023 where part of his role requires him to serve as Secretary on various local Agricultural Boards. He is thankful to have strong support from his amazing wife, Karlien, and also has two tremendous kids, Mikayla (10) and Zach (8).
“I really am looking forward to contributing where I can on a Board with a diverse set of skills. I also hope to learn a lot along the way and see a Community Bank that is stronger and more impactful in the community over the coming years,” he said.  
“Generally, Community Banks have an added mandate to commit a significant portion of their profits to worthwhile causes in the communities they serve. Giving back to the Whitsundays is a key objective for Bendigo Community Bank. This where local support for the bank can translate into funding being made available to local not-for-profits such as sporting clubs, schools and other community services based in the Whitsundays region,” said Brendon.
Over the past seven years Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine have invested just over $211,000 into local schools, social programs, sporting groups, arts and culture events, conservation initiatives, and community prizes.
“Our ability to invest in the local community is due to our branch team for delivering quality service, our shareholders for backing the Whitsundays community, and all the passionate local directors past and present for their hard work and dedication”, said Mark.
The Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine opened in June 2012 with the support of local shareholders who saw the value of the Community Bank model and raised $800,000 locally to establish a branch in the Whitsundays.
Brendon joins current Board members Mark Henry (Chairman), Cait Fleming (Secretary), Krys Halsey (Treasurer), and Ross Hughes.
Visit the Branch at Whitsunday Plaza Cannonvale or contact the team on phone 07 4948 3599 or email cannonvale&proserpinemailbox@bendigoadelaide.com.au

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Proserpine industry leader Brendon Nothard joins the Board of Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine. Photo supplied

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Arguably navigating people management is up there with cashflow and other demands, irrespective on the size of your business.

With ever-increasing industrial relations complexity and compliance requirements, businesses face more exposure and scrutiny when comes to how they are managing their employees and contractors. With significant financial penalties for non-compliance if known or even unknown, it is critical businesses are on top of their people management obligations.

To better support their members, the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry is now offering a full suite of end-to-end employee relations and employer advocacy services in partnership with local Chamber member The Airlie Group.

The Airlie Group offers Chamber members a free of charge initial confidential consultation with structured general industrial relations and human resource advice.

“There are so many challenges IR and HR requirements place on regional businesses, particularly when we are also trying to juggle workforce availability and productivity - having local, independent expertise available to our members is highly valued,” said Chamber President Allan Milostic.

“We welcome The Airlie Group’s support services and encourage all our members to explore the range of local experts available to help business growth.”

Also, there are a number of other specialist business support services available from members to members:  

   • Finance expertise by Eclipse Financial Planning, Smooth Sailing Finance Consulting, and the Small Business Financial Counselling Service.  
   • Marketing and advertising advice and services from Melinda Louise Media, Kapow Interactive, and KB Design. 
   • Boost your business operations from the Mentoring for Growth program, and reviews by Luxton Safety and Compliance Australia and Zero Waste Solutions. 
   • Workforce solutions with the Whitsundays Customer Service Hero program, Business Wellness Coaches, and Industry Workforce Advisors.
   • Exclusive experiences with Airlie Beach Executive Services and Sailing Whitsundays. 

The Chamber wishes to thank these companies who support their members build their business. 

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Whitsunday Regional Council encourages homeowners and renters to be proactive in identifying concealed water leaks. Catching leaks early can save water, money, and reduce stress.
Look for signs like reduced water pressure, water pooling, damp patches, or unusually green grass. To check for a leak, turn off all taps and appliances for an hour and watch for any movement on your water meter reading dials.
If a leak is detected, make sure a qualified plumber completes the repair, and remember to include photos and a plumber’s report when applying for a bill concession from Whitsunday Water.
Learn more: https://bit.ly/WRCconcealedleaks.

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Following on from a recent article on maternity care in Proserpine, here is the story of two very special nurses from a past era who are remembered as a great nursing team in the maternity ward - Monie Ward and Minnie Oakhill, affectionately referred to as “M and M”.

MINNIE OAKHILL was born Mena Deicke on October 28 1903, the eldest child of Harry and Mary Deicke. She was schooled initially in Bowen and Townsville then finished her education at All Hallows College in Brisbane, travelling there by ship as there was no rail line through to North Queensland at the time.
After leaving school, Minnie worked at her parents' Palace Hotel. She started her nursing career by joining the Voluntary Aid Detachment during the war. After completing the required hours for her certificate at Proserpine District Hospital, she joined the nursing staff where she eventually worked in the maternity ward for many years and was a well-known and highly respected “Middy” in the district.
Word has it that “everything went on hold” in maternity while Gwen Meredith's serial “Blue Hills” was on the radio at 1p.m - it was apparently a daily dose of medicine for Min!
Minnie married Dick Oakhill who owned Proserpine Plumbing Works in Chapman Street and they lived in Ann Street, Proserpine for many years. Min and good friend, Mrs Joe Faust, met every morning at the corner of Faust and Ann Streets and walked together to Mass during WWII. When her husband died in December 1969 and with her own health beginning to fail, Min went to live in Newcastle with daughter, Colleen and her family.  
Minnie Oakhill, who had nursed and loved both babies and mothers in Proserpine Hospital Maternity Ward for so many years died in Newcastle on February 16, 1976.
 
MONIE WARD was born Mary Monica McNeill in 1905 to parents Francis Joseph McNeill Jnr and Madeline Elizabeth nee Armanasco. Monie served as a Pupil Teacher at Proserpine State School from 1919‑1921 then decided her true calling lay in nursing. She completed her training at Mackay District Hospital.  

In 1936, Monie married Henry Ward, a telegraphist at Proserpine Post Office. They resided at Foxdale with their two children, Bruce and Thea.

Monie commenced work in the old Proserpine Hospital on Bowen Road and later worked at the new hospital site in Herbert Street. She returned to nursing c.1949, working under Matron McGrath and worked in the maternity ward.
Her gentle and compassionate nature were a perfect complement to the professional skill required of a nurse. Monie’s daughter, Thea, recalls her mother being a midwife when Peter John Faltinsky, Proserpine's miracle baby, was born on July 7, 1956. “12½ weeks premature, weighing approximately 500 grams. His head, the size of a small orange and pelvis, the width of a nappy safety pin. He was fed on glucose with an eye dropper every half‑hour ...Peter spent his first 10 weeks in a humidicrib and owes his life to tender loving nursing. For 6 weeks, his only clothing was a face washer cut in half for a nappy ... his hands were the size of a halfpenny and his feet fitted loosely in a match box.” (“Proserpine Then and Now” PHMS 1988 p53)
Monie Ward spent her well-earned retirement with her children and their families at Yeppoon and Buderim. This dedicated midwife died peacefully on July 3, 1999 in her 94th year.
Proserpine women were indeed fortunate to have the wonderful care of Minnie and Monie - M and M!
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Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum Society.

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Sister Monie Ward second from left back row; Sister Minnie Oakhill second from right back row.

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At our monthly Ordinary Meeting in Bowen last week, Council made a significant decision to enhance arts and culture in the Whitsundays, officially approving a 10-year Peppercorn Lease for Creative Connections Whitsundays (CCW).

This decision paves the way for Creative Connections Whitsundays to transform the old Visitor Information Centre in Proserpine into a vibrant Community Art Gallery and cultural hub for the region.

I’m thrilled by the opportunity this project brings to Proserpine and the broader region. Establishing a cultural precinct near the Museum and Community Centre not only enriches our local identity but also strengthens our community ties.

I’ve personally witnessed the talent and dedication of CCW through their well-attended and expertly run exhibitions, and I have no doubt this hub will be a tremendous asset for our region.

My fellow Councillors share this enthusiasm, unanimously endorsing the vision to transform under-utilised council spaces into thriving hubs for arts, culture, and heritage. The 7-0 vote reflects our collective commitment to investing in the creative potential of our communities and fostering opportunities for both locals and visitors to engage with the arts.

This project represents so much more than a lease—it’s a step toward a brighter, more creative future for the Whitsundays. Congratulations to CCW on this incredible achievement, and we look forward to seeing this vision come to life.

Members of the Creative Connections Whitsundays group described the approval as a “major milestone,” but also acknowledged the hard work ahead.

They plan to breathe new life into the former Visitor Information Centre, turning it into a beautiful and welcoming venue where people can connect through art.

Together, we’re creating something truly special for Proserpine and our wider region.

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A group of forward-thinking women gathered for a special event last month, the "Women vs Women: Challenging vs Championing" which was hosted by Shiift as its special end of year event of the Thriive series.
The evening featured delicious cheese platters, drinks, and an outstanding panel of female leaders, including Dr. Julia Evans from the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Kate Purdie, CEO of Coral Sea Marina, Melita Jurgen, Owner of Vee Jay's Kalfresh, and Rachael Smith, Editor-in-Chief of Life Publishing Group.
The event fostered dynamic and thought-provoking discussions, where women were able to connect, share insights, and challenge each other in a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. It was an empowering evening that celebrated both the struggles and triumphs of women in leadership.

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Shiift panelists Dr. Julia Evans, Melita Jurgen, Director of Shiift Judy Porter, Rachael Smith and Kate Purdie.
Panelists during their discussion.

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Rich Bates, along with his partner, has owned News Whitsundays for the past two and a half years, having taken over the business from a family who ran it for 15 years. Since then, they have expanded the team to six staff members, helping to continue and grow the legacy of the local news agency.
News Whitsundays offers an expanded selection of magazines, cards, and gifts for every occasion, now featuring a wider range of stationery, Back to School and unique souvenirs that were previously unavailable. A standout addition is the Christmas Sparkly range, perfect for spreading festive cheer during the holiday season.
“I've worked closely with manufacturers to secure exclusive products, so now we can offer items that locals have never had access to before,” explained Rich Bates, owner of News Whitsunday.
“We’ve significantly upgraded our gift selection. While other major supermarkets might offer 400-500 cards, we have over 3,000  with differing Captions!”
Rich, who hails from a regional town, expresses his pride in operating a business in the Whitsundays.
“I love that locals support locals; that’s how we all grow,” he shared.
“We’ve built a strong rapport with the community, and it’s a pleasure to serve them.”
The couple's strong sense of community stems from Rich's role as a JP and his active involvement, alongside his partner's work as a nurse at Proserpine Hospital.
They pride themselves on being customer-focused, ensuring every shopper enjoys a positive, satisfying experience in-store.
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News Whitsundays in the Whitsunday Plaza. Photo credit: Ruth Puddefoot

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