It was a proud moment for Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ), formerly Volunteer Marine Rescue (VMR) Whitsunday this week, as volunteers were presented with their MRQ Citations during a special ceremony.

Family, friends, community representatives, and fellow first responders gathered to celebrate the dedication and service of the local crew, who have played a vital role in keeping Whitsunday waters safe.

Chief Officer Tony Wulff reflected on the organisation’s long history in the region, acknowledging both the legacy of service and the future ahead.

“𝘞𝘦 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘧𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘤 𝘰𝘱𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘶𝘯𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘞𝘩𝘪𝘵𝘴𝘶𝘯𝘥𝘢𝘺𝘴, 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘴𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘢 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘮𝘦𝘳𝘤𝘪𝘢𝘭 𝘣𝘰𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘶𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘺 𝘵𝘰 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘰𝘵𝘦 𝘴𝘢𝘧𝘦 𝘣𝘰𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘭𝘴𝘰 𝘣𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘯𝘦𝘹𝘵 𝘨𝘦𝘯𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘶𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘺,” he said.

With 60 years of service already behind them, MRQ Whitsunday volunteers continue to demonstrate their commitment to saving lives and promoting safe boating.

“Thanks for having us, crew – here’s to the next 60 years and beyond!”

Marine Rescue Queensland Unit Commander Shane Newell said under Marine Rescue Queensland they will no longer need to fund their own rescues.

"As VMR, we were self owned, so we owned all the assets, and we had to fund our operations.

"We had to charge a fee to cover our fuel, half our work is going to the islands or medi-vacs with ambulance on board, and the fuel bill for every one of those is at least $500.

"We were self funded by sausage sizzles, raffles and things like that.

"The big change now is that MRQ owns us, so all of our assets have been moved over to the government. They now pick up the term costs, which is really good."

Unit Commander Shane Newell added that Marine Rescue Queensland Whitsunday have two vessels with another one expected next year.

"We have a large, 12 metre vessel with 1000 horsepower of diesel inboard engines, and we can take it out in cyclones. So it's a very useful piece of equipment to go and rescue people in the worst possible weather, and it'll cope with it," he said.

"We've also got a 6.7 metre vessel with two 230 horsepower outboards on the back and we can use it for towing quite large vessels as well.

"We're now in the process of having a one and half million dollar vessel being built, and expect it early next year."

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Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) volunteers were celebrated at a special event last week

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Plans are underway for a memorial plaque to honour the four Australian Defence Force members who lost their lives in the MRH-90 Taipan helicopter crash during Exercise Talisman Sabre.

The aircraft, carrying four members of the Sixth Aviation Regiment based in Sydney—Lieutenant Maxwell Nugent, Captain Daniel Lyon, Warrant Officer Class 2 Joseph Laycock and Corporal Alexander Naggs crashed in the Whitsundays on July 28 2023.

A group of ex-servicemen, from Operation Pilgrimage Group is leading the initiative to create a plaque in their honour. The proposed site is near the existing memorial for the missing midshipmen, opposite the police station — a location already familiar to both locals and visitors.

Organisers stress the project is not about fundraising but recognition. “We’re not raising money, we’re wanting to acknowledge their life and their service,” said Allan Miles OAM, CEO of Operation Pilgrimage Group.

“Their lives were cut short, and this plaque is about ensuring they are remembered.”

A planning team has already been formed, with Defence and historical advisers providing guidance. Work will follow a set schedule, moving backwards from the intended unveiling to ensure everything is in place.

The unveiling is hoped to align with either Anzac Day or the anniversary of the crash, providing a fitting occasion for the tribute.

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A Mother’s Mission to Help Grieving Parents

On the 3rd of March, 2021, the Stevens family’s world was shattered when their eldest son, Ethan, lost his battle with Acute T-Cell Lymphoblastic Leukaemia, just three days shy of his 14th birthday.

For Kimberly, her husband Michael, and their youngest son Jett, life without Ethan felt unimaginable. Their “awesome foursome” was broken, and the road ahead seemed impossible to navigate.

“Six months after our teenage son Ethan passed away from T-Cell Leukaemia, I returned to work part-time as a psychologist. I knew then my focus would be on finding a way to help parents and carers who were also bearing the deep ache of child loss,” Kimberly said.

A former Whitsunday local, Ethan was a whirlwind of energy as a child—always outdoors, always moving—and later discovered his greatest love: rugby league. He was on track to realise his dream of playing for the North Queensland Cowboys, having represented Queensland Schoolboys at age 12 and trained with the Brisbane Broncos Elite Player Development Squad. But his bright future was tragically cut short when he became unwell on Christmas Day in 2020 and was diagnosed just hours later. Nine weeks after that diagnosis, his family faced the unthinkable.

“I remember, as we slowly picked up the pieces of our broken family, that it was the unwavering love and support from our family, friends and the Moranbah community that helped us keep putting one foot in front of the other,” Kimberly said.

“It was gratitude for this support that gave me an idea of how I could help.”

That idea became the Kids Connecting Parents (KCP) App, a global platform that uses geolocation technology to help grieving parents and carers find and connect with others nearby who understand their pain.

“There is nothing quite like the feeling of relief when you feel immediately and completely understood by someone who has walked in your shoes,” Kimberly said.

“My vision is that when local connections are made, parents will feel more supported and less alone, and build on these meaningful connections—whether it’s going for coffee or starting a local fishing group.”

The app allows parents to search for others in similar circumstances and connect one-on-one or in groups, whether at home or while travelling. Kimberly’s goal is to create opportunities for genuine support networks that reduce the isolation of grief.

The project hasn’t been without challenges. Funding the app’s $250,000 development was daunting, but Kimberly found strength in Ethan’s own resilience. She recalls his courage before his first outpatient chemotherapy treatment.

“He saw tears in my eyes. He turned to me and said, ‘Mum, don’t cry for me, let’s just do this’.”

Today, Ethan’s words and his “never give up” attitude remain at the heart of the app’s mission.

“Thank you to every person and family who donated to help build the Kids Connecting Parents App—we could not have done it without your support,” Kimberly said.

The KCP App has already begun transforming the way parents find comfort, with a growing community built on empathy, shared experience, and connection. It’s also gaining national recognition.

At the 2025 AusMumpreneur National Awards in August, Kimberly was honoured with Gold in Wellness Services and Silver in Overcoming the Odds—an emotional and powerful moment of validation for her vision and mission.

“The 2025 AusMumpreneur National Awards showed me what happens when women gather to lift each other up and change the world—it’s where magic happens,” Kimberly shared.

“Reaching for the stars with every grieving parent across the world. This is for you.”

She also thanked her key supporters and partners who helped bring the vision to life: Motion Curve Studio and Mining Skills Australia.

“Thank you for believing in this vision and partnering with me to build the Kids Connecting Parents App,” she said.

As the app continues to grow, Kimberly remains focused on its core purpose: healing hearts, one connection at a time.

To learn more or support the project, visit kidsconnectingparents.com.

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Ethan was a whirlwind of energy as a child—always outdoors, always moving—and later discovered his greatest love: rugby league

At the 2025 AusMumpreneur National Awards in August, Ethan's mum Kimberly was honoured with Gold in Wellness Services and Silver in Overcoming the Odds for her app that is bringing grieving parents together

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Since this newspaper’s inception five years ago, office dynamo Crissy Bottrell has been at the very heart of the print house — steering deadlines, supporting staff, and caring for our valued clients with dedication and flair.

Over the years, Crissy has been the friendly voice answering the main office line, effortlessly guiding advertisers through their campaigns with professionalism, warmth, and more than a few cheeky jokes along the way.

In-house, she’s known for her rock-solid work ethic, razor-sharp organisational skills, and an unexpectedly impressive singing voice — capable of hitting high notes few would dare attempt!
Throughout her time here, Crissy has played an integral role in shaping internal processes, helping the business evolve and meet the demands of rapid growth.

But for Crissy, the newspaper has always been more than a job — it’s been a second home. Her colleagues have become like family, and the impact she’s had on our culture is undeniable.
“Saying goodbye after five wonderful years is bittersweet,” she shared.

“The hardest part will be not seeing my workmates every day, or no longer chatting with advertisers I’ve formed close over-the-phone bonds with.

“I’ll also really miss the beautiful messages our readers send in. We often don’t realise how something small can brighten someone’s day — until we receive those heartfelt emails. They always made me smile.”

Although Crissy is stepping away from her role at the newspaper, she’s not going far. She’ll continue to call the Whitsundays home, raising her three beautiful daughters right here in the heart of the community she’s helped connect through the power of print.

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Office power house, Crissy Bottrell with Editor in Chief Rachael Smith and former Mackay Editor Amanda Wright at the farewell event on Friday night. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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Road Safety And Community Awareness

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As school holidays kick off across Queensland, Whitsunday Police are urging everyone to prioritise safety on the roads and in the community. With increased traffic and more children enjoying outdoor activities, patience and care will ensure a safe holiday period for all.

Queensland Police are reminding motorists to take extra care during the holidays, especially as roads may be busier with families heading to destinations such as beaches and parks. Drivers should:

• Obey speed limits: Pay attention to speed signs, particularly in residential areas where children are likely to be playing or cycling.
• Minimise distractions: Stay off your phone and avoid anything that takes your focus away from the road.
• Rest if tired: For those planning long drives, make use of rest stops or service stations to take a break and ensure you’re fit to continue safely.

“We see a rise in road incidents during school holidays, often due to impatience or fatigue. Taking a few extra minutes to be cautious can make all the difference,” Senior Sergeant Officer in Charge of Whitsunday Police Station Anthony Moynihan.

Watch Out for Kids on E-Scooters and Bikes

With many children out riding their bikes and e-scooters during the spring break, drivers and pedestrians must remain extra vigilant. Shared spaces such as paths, parks, and crossings are likely to see increased activity from young riders.

• Drivers: Slow down in high-traffic areas and always be on the lookout for children crossing roads or entering traffic unexpectedly.
• Pedestrians: Be mindful of footpath users, including kids still learning to manoeuvre safely on scooters or bikes.
• Parents: Talk to your children about road safety and ensure they’re wearing helmets and other safety equipment while riding.

Upcoming Police Bike Patrols in Coral Sea Marina and Lagoon Area

Looking ahead, police are partnering with Coral Sea Marina to roll out bike patrols in the coming months within the popular boardwalk and lagoon areas. While not taking place during the school holidays, these patrols are part of a proactive safety initiative designed to make these spaces safer and more enjoyable for families.

Officers on bicycles will be available to engage with the community, provide assistance, and promote safety awareness. Locals and visitors are encouraged to stop and say hello to the officers during their patrols.

These bike patrols are about connecting with the community while maintaining a visible presence around busy areas. It’s not just about addressing safety concerns but also creating positive interactions.

Whether you’re behind the wheel, walking through public spaces, enjoying time on the water or relaxing with family, school holidays are a time to unwind—and to exercise extra care. By being patient and alert, we can ensure everyone enjoys this break safely and without incident.

Let’s make it a memorable and safe holiday for families across the Whitsundays. Take care on the roads, look out for young riders, and remember to rest when needed—your safety, and that of others, depends on it.

Contributed with thanks to Senior Sergeant Officer in Charge of Whitsunday Police Station Anthony Moynihan

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Established September 1 1925

In July 1925, two young men, Messrs C E Mazlin and E S Briggs, foresaw the possible advancement of the Proserpine district and took the big risk of resigning from their positions and purchasing the business of Mr Randolph Traill, a Real Estate and Commission Agent with an auctioneering business and motor car agency. On September 1, they began trading as Briggs and Mazlin.

Mr E S Briggs had arrived in Proserpine in 1921 to establish a branch of the Australian Bank of Commerce Ltd. Mr C E Mazlin arrived from Georgetown in 1923 as the local Clerk of Petty Sessions and acting Police Magistrate.

Spencer Briggs and Cec Mazlin “commenced without any staff … From the sweeping floors to the typing and posting of letters it was their personal work, and they must be congratulated upon their enterprise.” (“Guardian” July 21 1950)

They worked hard but it was not all smooth motoring. The depression years meant curtailment of their activities; World War Two saw employees enlist and a shortage of parts meant that the business was reduced to mostly accountancy. The devastating fire of 1949 in Main Street could have meant their demise but, after just eight months, they re-established on the old site in a new and spacious concrete building. (McDonald’s House where Filbys is now located)

Sensing the future prosperity of the motor industry, Briggs and Mazlin built a new service station opposite what was then the Shire Hall. It opened on September 11 1948 with Mr James Fraser as manager. At the opening, guests were “amazed at the size of the building and the equipment. … (and) a very pleasing front and drive in filling station which will be a boon to Proserpine motorists.” (“Guardian” Sept 17)

But the business was more than motor vehicles and tractors.

¨ The partners were registered accountants conducting a taxation business

¨ It was the district’s oldest established real estate firm. Spencer Briggs conducted every auction sale for over 20 years

¨ They were agents for SGIO, Shirley’s Fertilisers Ltd, and ANA Fertiliser.

¨ The business was a representative of the Immigration Dept assisting new Australians.

¨ As shipping agents for Lloyd Triestino and P & O Line, they arranged bookings to and from around the world.

The period between March 1949 and 1953 saw many changes. Three of Cec Mazlin Seniors’ sons joined the firm and E S Briggs sold his interests and moved to Brisbane in 1953. With the acquisition of Briggs’ part of the firm by Norman Mazlin and Cec Mazlin Jnr, the business was controlled by the Mazlin family. In July 1956, a new shop (Evelyn House) was built opposite the garage. With the death of Cec Mazlin Snr in February of that year, so exited the second partner of the Briggs and Mazlin enterprise.

The Ford business established by Briggs and Mazlin continued to flourish after the death of Cec Mazlin Snr. In the late 1950s, Jim Fraser, who had started work as a spare parts boy for Briggs and Mazlin in 1934, partnered with Norm and Cec Jnr. In 1973, Mr and Mrs James (Jim) Fraser purchased the Ford dealership sector. Jim Fraser retired as dealer/Principal of J F & R M Fraser on February 27 1999. The Ford dealership (Fraser Ford) continued to trade until 2023, having successfully operated for fifty years.

This year marks 100 years since the Ford Motor Company “arrived” in Australia and 100 years since Spencer Briggs and Cec Mazlin opened the Ford dealership in Proserpine making them amongst the oldest Ford dealers in the Commonwealth.

Hats off to Spencer Briggs and Cec Mazlin for their foresight and their faith in the future of the town.

Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum

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Main Street 1937 showing Briggs and Mazlin Ford Dealership located near the electric light pole. Photo supplied.

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Meet Fraser Simpson

Cruise Whitsundays’ largest vessel, Seaflight, has just returned to service after a major repower and a fresh coat of paint in the new company livery. The project forms part of a multi-million-dollar investment strategy focused on upgrading and expanding the fleet, with four of the eight key vessels already undergoing significant works this year and more planned for the future.

But the real story isn’t just about the vessel – it’s about the person now at the helm.

Local skipper Fraser Simpson first joined Cruise Whitsundays more than ten years ago as a school-based trainee while finishing Year 12 at Proserpine State High School. Starting out one day a week during school and picking up shifts on weekends and holidays, Fraser quickly built a career on the water. From deckhand to pontoon crew, to managing the pontoon, and later stepping into Master roles on the resort transfer vessels – he’s worked his way right through the business.

During the COVID-19 shutdowns, Fraser even stayed on the pontoon to keep things running. That commitment, paired with gaining his Master qualifications, set him up for the role he holds today – taking the helm of Seaflight, Cruise Whitsundays’ largest vessel and the one responsible for delivering Cruise Whitsundays’ flagship product Great Barrier Reef Adventure.

Fraser says what keeps him motivated is the joy of the guests.

“I find a lot of enjoyment in taking passengers out to some really special places, and it’s such a satisfying job when I come home with a boat full of happy people who’ve fulfilled their dream of seeing the Great Barrier Reef.”

He also sees the industry as a great pathway for young people.

“It’s a place where you can work and have a great professional career, but throughout your younger years, you can also have a lot of fun, go to some really cool places and meet some really nice people from all around the world. And you live in Airlie Beach too – that’s a bit of a bargaining point for others who don’t live here!”

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Fraser now drives this vessel to take guests to the Reef

Fraser standing in the impressive wheelhouse

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Our Whitsunday region is officially the fastest growing local government area in Queensland and the third fastest in the whole of Australia. Growth at this level is exciting, but it also brings real challenges. One of the biggest is making sure there are enough homes for the families who want to live here.

Yesterday I joined Premier David Crisafulli and our local Member of Parliament Amanda Camm to announce more than 15 million dollars in funding for critical water and sewer infrastructure in Cannonvale and Proserpine. This investment is about putting the services in place that unlock new land and allow more homes to be built.

In Cannonvale, the project will deliver a new sewer rising main, gravity sewer, water main and sewage pump station. These works will unlock land for more than 400 new homes by 2028, with the potential for up to 2,000 homes over the next decade. Cannonvale is on its way to becoming the future city centre of the Whitsundays and this funding makes sure we are ready for that growth.

In Proserpine, 4.8 kilometres of new water mains will unlock greenfield land for housing. This will support 64 new homes by 2028, and a developer has committed to delivering 173 lots over time. For a growing town like Proserpine, this is a fantastic outcome that will support young families and strengthen the local economy.

These projects are part of the Build Whitsundays program, which brings together Council, the Queensland Government, developers, and our community to address housing supply. I want to personally thank the Premier and the Queensland Government for backing our region with this investment.

The Whitsundays is a region that people want to be part of. Our lifestyle, our industries and our opportunities make us a destination for families and businesses alike. With this growth comes the responsibility to stay ahead of the curve. Housing is the key. By investing in water, sewerage, and roads, we are setting the foundations for new homes, new jobs and a stronger economy that will carry us into the future.

Together we are building a Whitsundays that is ready for growth, resilient for the next generation, and a place we can all continue to be proud to call home.

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The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry has announced an action-packed program of events for October, designed to strengthen local businesses and provide practical tools for growth and success.

The month begins with a timely professional development session on Managing Difficult Personalities in the Workplace, to be held on Thursday 9 October, 7:30–9:00am at Club Whitsunday, Airlie Beach. Delivered by Judy Porter of Shiift, this interactive workshop will address one of the top challenges facing small and medium enterprises: managing people. Attendees will gain insight into the do’s and don'ts of handling difficult personalities, strategies for reducing conflict, and techniques to harness individual and team strengths. Registration is free for Chamber and Tourism Whitsunday members, with refreshments included.

On Thursday 16 October, 7:30–9:00am, the Chamber presents Ask An Expert: Money Matters, also at Club Whitsunday. This exclusive session features leading financial professionals including Gus Walsgott (Rural Financial Counselling Service), Justin Butler (Eclipse Financial Planning), Fiona Erquiaga (Smooth Sailing Finance Consulting), and Doug O’Connor (Option Insurance Brokers). Covering compliance, lending, insurance, superannuation, and growth planning, the panel will share financial trends, common mistakes to avoid, and five powerful habits for long-term success. Attendees are encouraged to bring their questions for tailored advice.

The month concludes with the Whitsundays Job Fair on Tuesday 21 October, 10:00am–1:00pm at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre. Open to all, this major regional event will connect employers directly with job seekers, students, and skilled workers. Businesses will benefit from their own booth to showcase vacancies, direct engagement with candidates, networking with other employers and industry groups, and valuable pre-event promotion. Spaces are limited, and registrations for a free business booth must be completed by Tuesday 7 October.

With a focus on skills, financial knowledge, and workforce connection, October promises to deliver practical outcomes for Whitsunday businesses of all sizes.

These events are open to all. Register via whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au/events

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The Whitsundays is set to sparkle as the region prepares to honour its leading tourism operators at the 2025 Whitsunday Tourism Awards, to be held on Saturday, 18 October at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre.

This year marks a fresh chapter for the awards, with the introduction of a new structure based on the Best of Queensland Experience Program (BOQEP). This innovative approach means recognition is awarded not by submissions, but through real results and customer feedback, ensuring the finalists reflect genuine excellence.

To qualify, businesses must have an ATDW (Australian Tourism Data Warehouse) listing and meet strict benchmarks, including:

• Consistently exceptional customer reviews
• A website with secure online booking capability
• Active social media presence
• Membership with the Regional Tourism Organisation
• Holding relevant tourism accreditation

Across The Whitsundays, 123 products were recognised through BOQ, an extraordinary result that showcases the region’s outstanding standards. A total of 93 finalists across 14 categories will be celebrated this year, representing the diversity of The Whitsundays’ offering, from reef adventures and island stays to beachside dining, land tours and mainland accommodation.

“These new criteria highlight what today’s travellers value most: seamless online booking, authentic social media engagement and, above all, outstanding customer experiences,” said Tim Booth, CEO of Tourism Whitsundays.

"October 18 will be their night to shine, and we can’t wait to celebrate with them.”

The 2025 Whitsunday Tourism Awards are proudly supported by Naming Rights Sponsor Bishopp Outdoor Advertising. Alongside Bishopp, the awards are backed by valued partners Hero, Mackay & Whitsunday Life, and Whitsunday Transit. A special thanks is also extended to the Whitsunday Regional Council and Tourism and Events Queensland, whose ongoing support makes this event possible.

Contributed with thanks to Tourism Whitsundays

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The Whitsunday Tourism Awards 2025 will be held at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre. Photo sourced: Online

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October is Seniors Month, a time to celebrate the vital role older Queenslanders play in our families, workplaces and communities. It’s also a chance to connect across generations, share stories and recognise the experience and wisdom our seniors bring to everyday life.

Join in with local events this Seniors Month and help celebrate the theme of social connection and inclusion for all ages. Events include an Ageism Awareness Day Mental Health Session at the Proserpine Library, Stay Safe Online and Energy4Seniors programs, as well as journal writing workshops and special Coffee and Chat sessions at your local library.

For more information, on Seniors Month events in our region, visit the Whitsunday Regional Libraries website.

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Tec-NQ House Year 11 boarder Max has taken a big step toward his future, securing a school-based plumbing apprenticeship with Hilditch Plumbing in Townsville. He splits his week between paid work on real sites, training with Tec-NQ, and the study he needs to complete his Senior Certificate, earning while he’s learning and loving every minute.

“It’s busy and it’s hands-on, which is exactly what I wanted,” said Max. “I’m earning while I learn, and I’m picking up skills on the tools that I can use straight away.”

Right now, Max is working in the civil construction space on local subdivisions. That means early starts, lots of digging, and the practical know-how that comes with preparing ground and pipe for underground services. “There’s a lot of groundwork,” he explained. “We’re trenching, bedding, and laying pipe. It’s hard work, but I’m really enjoying it.”

Head of Boarding, Luke Papworth, says Max’s journey shows how opportunity follows effort. “Max is a great example of what happens when a young person shows up, works hard, and makes a good impression on placement,” Luke said. “Good work experience can turn into paid employment and a school-based apprenticeship, and that’s exactly the vocational pathway we champion.”

Life at Tec-NQ House gives Max the structure to succeed. He leaves for site each morning with a nutritious packed lunch prepared by Don, the on-site chef at the House, then returns to a supportive environment in the afternoon to reset for the next day. “Having Chef Don’s lunches keeps the boys fuelled for long days,” Luke added. “Food, routine, and positive expectations make a huge difference when you’re juggling work and school.”

Max agrees the balance is working. “I go to work during the day, then come back to Tec-NQ House,” he said. “The staff help keep us on track, and the routine makes it easier to manage work, training, and study.”
During school holidays, Max transitions into full-time hours with Hilditch to accelerate his progress. The goal is clear: finish Year 12, move straight into a full-time apprenticeship, and qualify as a tradie with Hilditch Plumbing.

“Holidays are a chance to get more time on the tools,” Max said. “When I finish school, I want to step straight into full-time and keep going until I’m qualified.”

For Luke, Max’s story is exactly why Tec-NQ House exists. “Boarding gives students independence with a safety net,” he said. “We set clear expectations around learning and behaviour, and we’re right there to support them with transport, meals, and pastoral care so they can focus on what matters: doing a good job on site and at school.”

He adds that employers notice the difference. “When a student like Max turns up on time, listens, works hard, and takes pride in the basics, employers are eager to invest in them,” Luke said. “That consistency is what leads to apprenticeships and long-term careers."

With Hilditch Plumbing backing his development and Tec-NQ House providing the platform, Max is building momentum one trench, one length of pipe, and one solid day’s work at a time.

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Bowen Summergarden Cinema will celebrate World Space Week 2025 with a children and youth poster competition and screenings of To The Stars – Beginning, a feature documentary about the early years of Gilmour Space Technologies.

Both events are officially registered Australian activities for World Space Week, which runs from October 4–10 each year. The 2025 theme is Living In Space.

Cinema owner Ben DeLuca said the poster competition invites entrants to pick a planet or planetary moon within the solar system, then design a way to reach it and live there.

“We now have the Bowen Orbital Spaceport so it might get local kids thinking of careers in space and the space industry,” he said.

Entries can be dropped into the cinema until October 1. All posters will be displayed in the foyer during World Space Week, with a ballot to determine the winner on October 5, just before the final screening of To The Stars – Beginning at 7pm. The winner will receive a Bowen Cinema family pass of six tickets and a DVD of the documentary.

“Entries can then be picked up at the conclusion of World Space Week 2025 after October 10th,” Mr DeLuca said. He added that patrons will also have the chance to vote for the best entries, with two small prizes awarded to the top primary and high school posters.

The screenings mark a belated premiere for To The Stars – Beginning, produced by Queensland independent filmmaker Robin Williams of RP Williams Films. The documentary covers the origins of Gilmour Space Technologies, founded by brothers Adam and James Gilmour.

“Like many people my age I was a space nerd and grew up during the Apollo Moon Missions,” Ms Williams said. Filming began in 2017, before Australia had its own Space Agency. The Gilmour footage was completed in 2019, but post-production was delayed by COVID.

“Because of so much uncertainty with lockdowns we entered a few festivals – that resulted in a Best Feature Documentary win at the 2021 Sanctuary Film Festival – held a Cast and Crew screening and one theatrical screening in Brisbane then followed professional advise and ‘put it on the shelf’ until things returned to normal,” she said.

The Bowen screenings have been timed to coincide with Gilmour’s major milestone, the Eris 1 launch attempt.

“So I guess you could call these Bowen screenings a belated official Premiere of To The Stars – Beginning,” Ms Williams said.

Mr DeLuca said the cinema is proud to host the film.

“This is a true story of inspiration about Australian brothers who have already made Australian history and it’s made by independent Australian documentary makers,” he said.

Adam Gilmour said, “Not many people know this about our company, but before Eris there was a much smaller suborbital rocket called One Vision. It was a simpler time back then, but fraught with its own challenges.”

James Gilmour, now based in Bowen, said he has always loved space.

“How can you not look up at the night sky and wonder?”

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Key talent and creative at a private cast and crew screening of To The Stars- Beginning, Paul Williams, Adam Gilmour, James Gilmour, and Robin Williams

Ben DeLuca outside his iconic Bowen Cinema

Photos supplied

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Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, has confirmed that after more than 12 years of lobbying, the Bowen Boat Harbour Master Plan is finally moving forward.

The Master Plan was an election commitment during the October 2024 election, and with funding recently allocated by the Crisafulli Government, the focus turned to timing.
Mr Last said that, following a commitment from the Minister for Transport and Main Roads, work would begin soon.

“Less than two years ago, the former government put the Master Plan project on hold for at least five years,” Mr Last said. “After lobbying the Minister directly, we have secured another win with work on the Master Plan to get underway this year.”

“The Master Plan is the missing piece when it comes to the Bowen foreshore precinct. It is absolutely essential that the redevelopment of the jetty and upgrades of the foreshore tie into any redevelopment at the harbour, and vice versa, so we end up with the best result possible.

“A mismatched series of developments along the foreshore would be a disaster for Bowen from both a tourism point of view and for locals. Getting it right the first time not only improves value for money for taxpayers, it means we get the facilities we need much quicker.

“This is an opportunity to transform the entire foreshore area into an oasis for locals and tourists alike, less than one kilometre from the Bowen CBD. It’s about realising Bowen’s potential when it comes to economic development and job creation.

“The reality is that the Master Plan should have been completed years ago. Whenever they have been asked to, the Bowen community has engaged fully in the planning process but, despite that, nothing has been delivered.”

Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Brent Mickelberg, said the Crisafulli Government was committed to listening to the community and unlocking Bowen’s potential.

“With sailing events on Bowen’s doorstep during the 2032 Olympics, we have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to promote Bowen as a tourism destination and a place to invest,” Mr Mickelberg said.

“I thank the local member’s advocacy on behalf of his community, and I look forward to seeing the planning and engagement process progressing this year. One of the key parts of any development is community engagement, because that ensures opportunities to share ideas or raise concerns to ensure the foreshore precinct brings benefits to the entire town.

“While the previous Labor government was happy to leave Bowen in a holding pattern, we recognise the impact that the Harbour Master Plan will have on Bowen’s growth and economy.”

Contributed with thanks to Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP

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Australians love big things and nine in 10 people are said to embrace the oversized landmarks as a part of their great Aussie road trip.

For 72% of Aussies, visiting one is more than just a detour, it adds purpose to their trip.

Following overwhelming demand for the first collection, Australia Post has released its latest $1 coin collection in partnership with the Royal Australian Mint, celebrating Australia’s iconic roadside attractions.

The ‘Aussie Big Things 2’ collection features 10 of Australia’s favourite Big Things
including The Big Strawberry, The Big Merino, The Big Prawn, and Bowen’s own The Big Mango.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said everyone was very excited to have the Big Mango featured on a $1 coin.

“Everyone loves the Big Mango, and we feel honoured that it has been chosen as part of this new coin collection.

“Aussie Big Things capture some quirky and wonderful aspects of Australia, and more and more people are making sure they include all the Big Things on their road trips.

“The coins are available at Australia Post outlets, including the Bowen Post Office, but we will also be selling them soon at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre.

“Our release date will be October 7 when we will have a limited amount for sale but there will be no pre-orders.”

The Big Mango represents the Kensington Pride variety of Mango as Bowen is the birthplace of that variety.

The Big Mango was named the Best Big Thing in our state at the Queensland Day awards in May.

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