This week marks the final chapter for the community newspaper Whitsunday News, which has been part of the region since its inception in 2020. After shifting to an online-only format in 2024, the publication has now announced it will officially close its doors.

Editor and founder Deborah Friend has been the driving force behind Whitsunday News since day one. In a touching gesture, Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm recently surprised Ms Friend with a gift basket and a certificate of appreciation.

“I was very touched and honoured to be recognised by our local MP Amanda Camm for my contribution to local media and the Whitsunday community during the five years of the Whitsunday News’ existence,” said Ms Friend.

Praised for her passionate advocacy for the Whitsundays, Ms Camm said that Whitsunday News captured the heart of our community.

"As she steps back from her formal role in local media, I offer my heartfelt thanks to Deborah Friend for her outstanding contribution to journalism in our region," said Ms Camm.

"Whether it was covering local council developments, community fundraisers or the stories of everyday people doing extraordinary things, Deborah brought both professionalism and empathy to every piece she produced. She has shown what it means to be a true community journalist; someone who listens, who cares, and who tells our stories with truth and heart.

"With sincere appreciation on behalf of our community, I thank you, Deborah, for your dedication, your voice, and your legacy. The Whitsundays are better for your work, and you will always be part of the story."

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Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm acknowledged Deb Friend's dedication to the community following the closure of Whitsunday News Newspaper after five years. Photo supplied

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Since rolling into town in June, Skyline Attractions’ Ferris Wheel has quickly become part of the Airlie Beach experience. Standing 35 metres tall, it’s given locals and visitors the chance to take in sweeping 360° views of The Whitsundays, from the sparkling Coral Sea to the bustle of the foreshore and some stunning sunsets. 

More than 40,000 people have already hopped on board, and the Wheel has even played host to a bit of romance, with 17 proposals happening high above the sea (that we know of!). With fully wheelchair-accessible gondolas, it’s been an experience everyone could enjoy.

The buzz it’s brought to the town has been fantastic, adding another drawcard to the foreshore and giving families, couples and friends a new way to enjoy Airlie. It’s been a great boost for local businesses too, with plenty of visitors making a day of it.

But all good things must come to an end - the Ferris Wheel wraps up in October. So if you haven’t yet had a spin, now’s the time. Whether it’s your first ride or you’re heading back for another look at that view, don’t miss your chance to see Airlie from the top.

Contributed with thanks to Zoe Lunardelli, Partnerships Coordinator, Tourism Whitsundays

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Check out the ferris wheel before it leaves. Photo credit: Mackay and Whitsunday Life

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The school holidays are about to get seriously fun at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre! From the laugh-out-loud kid’s circus adventure ‘The Farmy Farm’ to big-screen new release cinema including The Smurfs, Bad Guys 2, Kangaroo and Gabby’s Dollhouse,  there’s something for every mini movie buff or theatre lover!

Don’t miss out,  check out the What’s On page on the Proserpine Entertainment Centre website and grab your tickets today!

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It has been a term like no other for St Catherine’s Catholic College with students, staff, families, and alumni coming together to mark a century of Catholic education in the region.

The College’s Centenary celebrations were the highlight of the term, drawing hundreds of people back to the school grounds to reminisce, reconnect, and celebrate the community that has flourished over the past 100 years. From moving liturgies to joyful reunions, the celebrations captured the proud history of the College while looking confidently toward the future.

Principal Katherine Nelson said the milestone created memories that would last a lifetime.

“Reaching 100 years is a remarkable achievement for our College and our community,” she said.

“It was inspiring to see so many generations come together to share stories, honour our traditions, and celebrate all that makes St Catherine’s so special. We are incredibly proud of where we’ve come from and very excited for what lies ahead. ”

Alongside the centenary, students and staff also enjoyed a vibrant and busy term filled with opportunities for learning, leadership, and fun.

● Blak Excellence
● Buddies Program
● Prep Adventures
● R U OK? Day
● Farmers Market

Ms Nelson also said the variety of events reflected the holistic education on offer at St Catherine’s Catholic College.

“From creating culture and achievement to supporting wellbeing and encouraging enterprise and creativity – this term has been a shining example of what it means to be part of St Catherine’s,” she said.

“We are proud of our students’ achievements, both big and small, and grateful to our staff, families, and community who make these experiences possible.”

As the College looks forward to the remainder of the year, the memories of this milestone term will remain a special part of its story for years to come.

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St Catherine's Catholic College celebrated Blak Excellence this term. Photo supplied

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A vibrant showcase of dance, music and storytelling lit up the stage at Bowen State High School’s inaugural Multicultural Evening, where students, teachers and community members came together to celebrate cultural heritage and unity.

Year 10 student Seinimilli Mau was credited as the driving force behind the evening, with her passion and leadership shining through every detail of the program.

Guest compere Joe Mau, a Year 12 student from Burdekin Christian College, kept the evening flowing with a mix of humour, soulful singing and a strong reminder of the importance of recognising and preserving culture.

Local primary school students and seasonal workers attended and students proudly showcased their cultural heritage through captivating dance, movement and song performances.

The evening's theme took the audience on a symbolic sea voyage, it opened with a heartfelt Acknowledgement of Country, led by staff member Greg Power alongside students, before Mary Ellen and Kenzie delivered a moving performance honouring the Torres Strait Islands.

From there, the journey continued to the Cook Islands, Fiji, Vanuatu, Samoa and Tonga, as students presented a series of captivating dances that highlighted the beauty and traditions of their homelands. Teachers were also invited on stage, dancing alongside their students in a moment that captured the event’s spirit of togetherness.

The night was hailed as a resounding success, not only for the talent on display but also for the powerful message of pride, identity and unity. Principal Robert Harris expressed his gratitude to all students, families and community members who helped make the celebration possible.

“Their collective efforts have created a lasting impact, inspiring me to continue celebrating our diversity and unity," he added.

“Students and staff are also saying how great the event was, they have been saying it was great to be able to build a connection.

“The two themes of embracing opportunities and strengthening relationships, they are the two hashtags I keep going on about, they build school culture.”

With the success of the inaugural event, excitement is already building for 2026, when the community will again gather to honour and celebrate the school’s rich cultural diversity.

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Two of the early pioneers in tourism in the Whitsunday region.

It could be said that Leen and Bill Wallace from Coral Art on Dent Island fitted easily into the category of alternate life-stylers; individuals who had chosen a lifestyle that was perceived to be alternative and/or individuals who had chosen to drop out of society and live on islands or the coastal fringes of Queensland.

From 1955 – 1961, they were caretakers of the lease owned by Jack O’Hara who, after his death, left it to his family. The house in which Jack and his wife, Margaret, had lived on the island after their retirement from their mainland farm was built in 1939 from timber from the first Hewitt Building in Proserpine’s Main Street. (Mrs O’Hara then rebuilt a new single storey building on that spot. This is where Home Brewitt is now located). Sons, Roy and Ray, took over the house on Dent after their parents died. Over the years, this house was used by various caretakers.

In the early 1950s, Ray O’Hara and his young wife, Margaret, befriended Leen and Bill Wallace who, at the time, were living at Hayman Island and making coral gardens to sell around the islands. Bill, an ex-US Navy flight engineer, was the collector and the coral, shells and other natural products that he brought back from his diving were decorated by the artistic Leen, a former Sydney showgirl. They had met when Leen was visiting her sister in the Whitsundays and Bill skippered their boat.

After their marriage in Cairns in 1950, they were attracted to the area by its sheltered, white beaches surrounded by crystal clear waters stocked with fish and corals. Ray offered them the use of the house on Dent with the agreement that they would maintain its order. The Wallaces gladly accepted and shortly after, Ray took up a job in Papua New Guinea.

In 1961, the Wallaces applied for and obtained a lease of 1.01 hectares over the area around the house and fronting onto the beach. They purchased the house from the O’Haras and began setting up their Coral Art establishment carving out a niche market for themselves selling painted coral arrangements. Leen and Bill shipped their painted coral around the world and this enterprise was used to promote the Great Barrier Reef through the Queensland Tourist Bureau. Eventually, they opened up their own Polynesian-style art studio.

Leen and Bill were the makers of the Coral Crown that was presented each year to the Coral Queen from the Great Barrier Reef Coral Festival which was first held in 1958. Today, this crown is on display at the Proserpine Historical Museum after having been donated by Thora Nicolson, formerly of Lindeman Island, one of the Coral Queens.

As the area opened up to cruising yachtsman in the 1960s, passing sailors, such as John Gunn, documented them in his 1966 book “Barrier Reef by Trimaran”.

“A married couple live in an idyllic setting on a cleared area of land behind the beach on this northern tip. With tremendous enterprise they have pioneered a business for themselves. The husband dives for coral pieces, and the wife applies delicate shades of colour to them, to make them look like the living corals … One may not be enthralled by this kind of tourist art, but it is popular. And the life that the two have carved out for themselves on their own island is one that many of us would love to have …”

Leen Wallace passed away at her tropical paradise home on Dent Island October 20 1988 after living a life which she referred to as a lifelong honeymoon.

Story courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum and information also sourced from “Island Artists” by Ewen McPhee (“Qld Museum and Community Collections” newsletter May 13 2020) and Ray Blackwood’s “The Whitsundays: An Historical History”. Photos sourced from National Archives.

POSTSCRIPT: If any of our readers have any knowledge of what happened to Bill after Leen’s death, the PHMS would be grateful to receive this information.

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Hi Everyone,

I had a fantastic weekend diving, which sparked my curiosity about fish identification, so I started looking for resources to learn more!

I also thought this would also be a great opportunity to share with readers, so you can better recognise the incredible fish species right here in our backyard. Start by exploring the Whitsunday Conservation Council’s excellent guide on the Great Barrier Reef’s protected species, then read on for tips on how you can begin identifying them yourself.

Happy reading!
Ruth

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Home to Many Protected Species

The Great Barrier Reef is home to a stunning array of animals, from microscopic plankton to whales weighing more than 100 tonnes. If you are counting, you will find 1625 species of fish, more than a thousand species of hard and soft corals, 3000 plus species of molluscs (shells) and a mere 630 species of echinoderm (starfish, sea urchins). And the list goes on.

These are well known facts. But what you may not know is that the Reef is home to a very large number of Protected Species. These species are of "conservation concern" due to threats such as climate change impacts, overharvesting and fishing, pollution, and habitat loss. The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority has designated these species as "no-take" species, meaning they cannot be taken from the waters.

For a protected species, the Reef is not only their home, it is their refuge.

Now, you must be wondering, what animals are listed as Protected Species? Here is the surprisingly, long list.

Corals: all corals are protected (some permitted exceptions)

Molluscs (Shells): helmet shells, triton shells, giant clam

Fish: Seahorses, pipefish, sea dragons, potato cod, Queensland grouper, cods and groupers (Epinephelus) >100cm, barramundi cod, Māori wrasse, freshwater sawfish, whale shark, grey nurse shark, great white shark, manta ray

Reptiles: sea snakes, crocodiles, flatback turtle, green turtle, hawksbill turtle, leatherback turtle, loggerhead turtle, olive ridley turtle

Birds: all birds are protected species

Seals: Southern fur seal

Dugong: the one and only

Cetaceans: whales and dolphins

We all have a responsibility to ensure the well-being of the Protected Species, particularly when visiting the Reef. The simple and most effective rule is to “take only pictures and leave only bubbles”.

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The Great Barrier Reef is home to more than 1,500 species of fish, making it one of the most diverse marine ecosystems on the planet. While it may seem overwhelming, there are a few simple ways to start identifying the fish you spot while snorkelling or diving.

Look at size and shape. Small, slender fish darting in and out of corals are often damselfish or gobies, while larger, bulky species like groupers and cod move more slowly and are easier to approach. Long, beak-like mouths suggest species such as butterflyfish, while the parrotfish’s strong, beak-shaped jaw is used to crunch coral.

Notice colour and patterns. Bright stripes and spots often belong to angelfish, butterflyfish or wrasse. The famous clownfish (or “Nemo”) is instantly recognisable with its orange body and white stripes, usually found among the waving tentacles of an anemone. Blue tang surgeonfish, made famous as “Dory,” are another colourful favourite.

Observe behaviour and habitat. Some species have distinctive habits that make them easy to identify. Damselfish often hover near coral heads, while schools of surgeonfish graze in open areas. Wrasse are known for their thick lips and can often be seen following divers curiously.

For many visitors, spotting members of the reef’s “Great Eight," clownfish, turtles, manta rays, Maori wrasse, sharks, giant clams, potato cod and whales – is the ultimate goal. With a little practice, you’ll soon learn to recognise the reef’s most fascinating fish and their unique characteristics.

You can also head to the queensland goverment website for a full list of fish species: www.qld.gov.au/recreation/activities/boating-fishing/rec-fishing/fish-species-guide/fish-species-id

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Local Artist Shines at the Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibition

Creative Connections Whitsundays is proud to celebrate member Brigitte Peel, whose artwork Unity Comes from the Moon & the Sea captivated audiences at the recent Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibition. The piece won both the Bendigo Community Bank People’s Choice Award and the Reef Theme Award, recognition Brigitte says is deeply meaningful.

"I felt privileged that the community voted for my artwork," Brigitte shared. "It was an honour that the judge also awarded it the theme award. Being acknowledged and recognised for the work you’ve produced really helps to build confidence and create momentum as an artist."

The awards have already sparked new opportunities, including more interest in her classes, commissions and collaborations.

A lifelong creative, Brigitte studied art at school and honed her eye for composition through underwater photography with Cruise Whitsundays. After years of balancing family life with collaborative workshops and commissions, she launched Sunbird Studios & Co in 2023. She now runs regular creative sessions for adults and children, working across mediums from charcoal and pastel to acrylic and watercolour.

Beyond painting, Brigitte has contributed to the Great Barrier Reef Festival’s Immerse installation, worked in stop-motion animation and screen printing, and created live event paintings and portraits. She is currently illustrating children’s books and has designed oracle tea cards.

Despite the challenges of single motherhood and running a studio, Brigitte continues to achieve success, including as a finalist in the Whitsunday Arts Festival and Doyles Art Award. Her recent recognition reflects her passion, perseverance and contribution to the Whitsundays’ creative community.

Brigitte Peel accepting peoples choice award. Photo supplied.
Brigitte Peel and Margie Murphy opening night. Photo supplied.

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Daisy is an 18-month-old Kelpie-cross with a gentle soul and a heart full of hope. Life hasn’t been easy for her, and she can be shy when meeting new people, but with patience and kindness, Daisy blossoms into a loving and loyal companion.

She is already desexed and vaccinated, and at a medium size, she’s a great fit for most homes—playful enough for outdoor adventures but easy to manage day to day. Daisy is particularly sensitive to loud noises and busy environments, so she’s looking for a calm, quiet home where she can feel safe and supported.

Despite her timid nature, Daisy is affectionate and eager to bond once she feels secure. She would thrive in a peaceful, loving household with owners who can give her the time and space to come out of her shell and build confidence.

Daisy is currently in care and ready to find her forever home. If you think you can offer her the safety and love she deserves, please get in touch.

Every dog deserves a second chance. Help us give Daisy hers—please share her story and help her find the family she’s been waiting for.

Message Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue on Facebook with your name and contact number to learn more or arrange a meet-and-greet.

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R U OK? Day was marked across the Whitsundays on Thursday with two community events encouraging meaningful conversations and mental health awareness.

In Cannonvale, the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre and Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN) hosted a morning tea at 9am at Cannonvale Beach, followed by a community walk to Shingley Beach — creating space for connection between friends, families and even strangers.

Meanwhile, the Bowen Community Centre brought locals together with its own R U OK? Day event, offering support, connection and a strong sense of community.

Ask R U OK? Everyday

R U OK? Day is a day dedicated to asking your close friends, family, and even strangers “Are you okay?”, but it’s a conversation that should be asked more regularly.

Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN) President Matt Stokes said he loves the R U OK? Campaign and it’s a reminder that everybody can help when it comes to mental health.

“t's a reminder that checking on everyone is everyone's job," he expressed.

“It's not just for a mental health capacity. It's a friend to friend, family to family, and just those around you. Look for little, subtle changes in their behaviours and check, are you okay?

“Ask the question and then listen and if they need help, get them some help. There's plenty of it out there. It's just connecting the dots.”

Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP said the simple words can make a huge difference in someone’s life.

“It is the most simplest of interventions that can change the course of someone's life for the better,” she said.

“I think at the heart of it, everyone wants to know that there is someone that cares, and R U OK? is an opportunity for us all to express care.

“Whether it's a stranger, a friend, one of our own children, checking in is so important and it's great we highlight this on one particular day, but we should be doing it every day wherever we can.”

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Have you asked R U OK? today? Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm is joined by members of Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network and Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Hi Everyone,

Mental health is something that’s always been close to my heart, ever since I watched my best mate from school go through depression after a traumatic divorce.

I remember being on the phone with him, trying so hard to help. I was throwing out suggestions — fresh air, long walks, joining a club, thinking positive. I thought depression needed action. Solutions. A mindset shift.

And while those things can help, I was totally thrown when he got short with me. Frustrated. Distant.

That night, he sent me an article that changed everything.

It explained that even though I meant well, I was coming at it the wrong way. Depression isn’t a problem you can fix. It’s not something someone can just shake off or “snap out of.” Often, it sits over someone like a thick fog — heavy and unmoving, no matter how badly they want it gone.

And sometimes, that fog just has to run its course.

That’s exactly what happened with my friend. After eleven long months, it finally began to lift. Later, he told me he was glad it didn’t go on any longer — because he’d made the quiet decision to end his life if it had. He’d reached that point. And no one knew.

Thankfully, the fog shifted — and he came through the other side.

As we mark R U OK? Day this week, I just wanted to share this reminder: sometimes it’s not about the advice or the “fix.” What helped my friend most, he said, was knowing someone was there. That someone cared enough to check in. Even when I didn’t have the right words.

Rach

Did You Know?
When people who’ve attempted suicide are asked 24 hours later if they really wanted to die, they almost always say no. They just wanted the pain to stop. Sometimes just being there is all it takes to make the difference.

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The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry is stepping into a new role as manager of the Airlie Beach Cruise Ship Markets, ensuring this much-loved event continues to thrive for stallholders, local businesses, community groups, and visiting passengers.

Commencing this month, the Chamber will oversee market operations with a clear commitment: to continue delivering a market that feels welcoming to cruise ship guests while being supportive of local stallholders.

Chamber President Allan Milostic said the markets are a vital opportunity to showcase the Whitsundays.

“Cruise ship visitors are often getting their very first taste of Airlie Beach and our region through these markets,” Allan said.

“We see enormous potential to strengthen that experience while supporting micro and small businesses and community groups.”

After 22 years of dedicated service, the Whitsunday Lions Club handed the reins of the Cruise Ship Markets to the Chamber. Their efforts have made the markets a much-loved attraction for both visitors and locals.

“Operating a market is a challenging job. Whitsunday Lions are confident that the new operators will meet those challenges and continue the success of this famous market,” said Lions Club representative Helen Toy.

“Our Lions Club will now be concentrating our efforts on the Lions Community Market held every Saturday on the foreshore.”

The Chamber acknowledges and thanks the Lions Club for their stewardship and contribution over more than two decades, which has built a strong foundation for the future.

In this next chapter, the Chamber is focused on working closely with current stallholders to provide additional services and support to help boost their businesses. At the same time, plans are underway to broaden the market’s appeal by introducing new elements in 2026.

To guide this evolution, the Chamber will soon survey stallholders to gather their feedback and ideas. Their insights will be central in shaping what comes next.

“Stallholders are the heart of these markets, and we want to make sure their voices guide how we evolve,” Allan said.

“Our goal is to keep what works well, while exploring new opportunities that will strengthen the experience for visitors and locals alike.”

The Chamber is also pleased to welcome Margie Murphy of Airlie Events and the Great Barrier Reef Festival to manage the markets on the ground over the coming months. Her experience and local knowledge will help ensure a smooth transition.

Chamber say that a key element of this new era will be reinvesting market revenue back into the Whitsundays community.

From 2026, eligible not-for-profits and community events will be able to apply for sponsorship funds generated by the market.

This approach will ensure the markets not only benefit stallholders and visitors, but also support local clubs, charities, and festivals that contribute to the social and cultural fabric of the Whitsundays.

To maintain transparency, the Chamber will publish annual reports outlining how funds are distributed.

“Our approach is about sustainability, accountability, and ensuring the markets remain a valued asset for the whole community,” Allan said.

The Chamber looks forward to working with Whitsunday Regional Council, stallholders, and community organisations to ensure the Cruise Ship Markets continue to grow as a vibrant, welcoming, and beneficial experience for all.

Stallholder enquiries can be made to: markets@whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au

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Cait Fleming, Margie Murphy, Helen Toy, Allan Milostic, and Julia Evans at the Cruise Ship Markets. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Justin Stokes believes rough weather may have saved his life on August 3. The 70-year-old Bowen retiree was about 50km offshore in a 26-foot boat with his son and a mate when he began feeling light-headed and unwell.

“We were already headed back to shore because of the weather and I wasn’t feeling great when the boat began taking on water; the bilge pump couldn’t keep up as the waves were coming over the front,” Justin said.

“My son and his mate had to start bailing. It was all a bit stressful.”

The trio urgently radioed Volunteer Marine Rescue (VMR), advising them of Justin’s history of heart problems. He had undergone a stent procedure in 2023 and still had two blockages. Feeling worse, he was transferred to the rescue vessel and taken back to shore.

Justin declined ambulance transport and was met at the boat ramp by his wife Pamela, who drove him straight to Bowen Hospital.

“I didn’t feel well, but I didn’t think it was going to be a bad problem or issue,” Justin said.

“At the hospital I told them I was starting to get worse chest pain so I was taken in to ED and had just sat on the bed - that’s the last thing I remember before I passed out.”

An after hours admin officer and graduate nurse triaged Justin quickly and moved him to the resuscitation bay. Shortly after, he collapsed.

Bowen clinical nurse educator Tracey Petersen said the ED team acted immediately.

“Within a minute, Justin’s airway was secured, we had commenced CPR and the senior medical officer was preparing to deliver a shock,” she said.

“Within one minute of that first shock, he was back and talking to staff.”

An ECG confirmed Justin had suffered a major heart attack. He was flown to Mackay Base Hospital and spent four days in the Cardiac Care Unit.

“I couldn’t wish for better treatment – they did a fantastic job to bring me back because for a few minutes there I wasn’t of this world,” Justin said.

His wife Pamela added “They really deserve every praise – Justin’s heart is only beating today because of them.”

Tracey said the team’s swift response was the difference between life and death.

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Justin and Pamela Stokes. Photo supplied

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