Every year on January 26 the Whitsunday Regional Council Australia Day Awards celebrate the outstanding achievements and contributions of individuals and organisations across our region.
 
Nominations for the 2025 Whitsunday Regional Council Australia Day Awards are now officially open! These awards are an incredible way for us as a community to recognise the outstanding contributions of individuals and groups who go above and beyond to make the Whitsundays such a special place to live.
 
Each year, these awards honour people from all walks of life—our dedicated volunteers, committed educators, passionate community workers, and even our local sporting heroes.
 
Whether it's someone who has made a difference through a lifetime of service or someone who’s made an impact through a project in the last year, these awards offer the chance to say a heartfelt "thank you" for their efforts.
 
We all know someone in our community who quietly works behind the scenes without expecting recognition. These are the people we want to celebrate—the ones who make a real difference in the lives of others.
 
It could be the coach who devotes countless hours to mentoring young athletes, the volunteer who consistently gives their time to help those in need, or the local business owner who always goes above and beyond to support community causes.
 
By taking the time to nominate someone, you’re not only acknowledging their efforts, but you’re also encouraging them to continue making a positive impact, knowing their work doesn’t go unnoticed.
 
We have several categories available, including Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, and Senior and Junor Sports, so there’s a way to highlight every type of contribution.
 
If you know someone who deserves to be celebrated for their contributions, I strongly urge you to submit a nomination. It’s easy to do, and nominations are open until Friday, December 6. You can find all the details on the Your Say Whitsunday page on our website or by dropping into one of our Customer Service Centres in Cannonvale, Proserpine, Bowen or Collinsville and filling out a hard copy form.
 
Let’s take this opportunity to shine a light on the people who make the Whitsundays a better, stronger, and more vibrant place for us all. I look forward to seeing many worthy nominations and celebrating with our incredible community on Australia Day 2025.
 
Together, let’s show our appreciation for those who are making a difference, one good deed at a time.
 
Ry Collins
Mayor of Whitsunday Regional Council

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Over 30 people attended the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre’s Be Connected Mini Seniors Expo on Friday 18 October.

The Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre offers an ongoing  Be Connected program and last year hosted a morning tea to over 50’s and seniors. At the morning tea they provided the attendees with education on digital literacy, and it was well received.

Due to the success, this year the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre partnered with more services to provide a Mini Expo for seniors.

Executive Officer at Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre Rebecca Woods said it was an important event.

“It was obvious to us that we were able to and had the opportunity to have access to a wide range of services for seniors that complement what we offer,” said Rebecca.

“I think it's important for the seniors in our community to have a have a voice and have an opportunity to look at the services that are on offer in our community in a friendly, relaxed, informal way.

“My team were able to get 15 services here today to showcase their services and their offerings in the community.

“Hopefully, in doing so, seniors are more connected to these services.

“They gain the knowledge and the information about the best ways they can support themselves, so that they remain active, healthy, well-connected seniors.”

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The Coral Voices
Samantha Formosa and Magaret Perkins
Cait and Rochelle
Shirley Telford
Diana and Melissa
Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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This Week Mayor Ry Collins presented his two chosen charities with cheques following a successful 2024 Mayor’s Ball where an impressive $66,000 was raised on the night.

Equal donations were given to the two nominated charities; Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN) and BMA CQ Rescue.

Mayor Ry Collins said that this incredible figure was testament to that support of the local community.

Mayor Ry Collins also thanked platinum sponsors of the event, Abbot Point Operations, Airlie Beach Hotel, and Hillery Group.

“To all sponsors, attendees who paid for their ticket on the night. Donors and supporters of any form, a really a big thank you from myself and the team,” said Mayor Ry Collins.

“Your generosity has truly made a difference in supporting our local charities, supporting critical emergency relief and also supporting mental health and suicide awareness.”

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BMA CQ Rescue Tegan Philpott, Mayor Ry Collins, Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network Matt Stokes and Mel Turner.

Mayor Ry Collins
Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network Mel Turner and Matt Stokes, with Mayor Ry Collins presenting the cheque.
BMA CQ Rescue Tegan Philpott and Mayor Ry Collins
Abbot Point Operations receiving a certificate of appreciation
Airlie Beach Hotel receiving their certificate of appreciation
Hillery Group with a certificate of appreciation
Wilmar representative with Mayor Ry Collins
Parc Exclusif receiving a certificate of appreciation from the Mayor
Gold Sponsor Bowen Rail Company receiving a certification
Mayor Ry Collins with Silver Sponsor Whitsunday Transit

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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The Get Cyclone Ready Event hosted by the Whitsunday Regional Council last Saturday was a great success.

Located at the Airlie Markets, the pop-up event attracted lots of attention, with many passers-by stopping to read the information available and talk to local experts on how to prepare for the upcoming storm season.

Whitsunday Regional Council Disaster Management Coordinator Sandra Black expressed the importance of these events.

“The more resilient you are, the more you've put into your education and your awareness of risks in your community, the quicker you recover,” she said.

With Storm season starting on 1st November, it is important to be educated and ready for every possibility.

Sandra explained that preparing an EVAC kit is a great way to prepare.

More information on how to be cyclone ready is available via the Whitsunday Regional Council website or via the Queensland Government’s website.

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Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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The remarkable life of this amazing man began in July 1880. Reared from an infant on a sugar cane property at Breadalbane, Billy took his surname from the owner, George Waite. Some records indicate that he was born in Charters Towers however Billy denied this. On his passenger records when he travelled to the USA, he named Waite as his father and that he was of Proserpine. It was said that his mother was Aboriginal.

Billy grew up droving cattle; a job to which he attributed his great horsemanship. As a youngster, he was known as a champion sprinter in the 50, 100 and 200 yard races.
When Martini’s Buckjumping Show came through the district, Billy’s life changed dramatically. He and another Aboriginal man, Billy Emmerson, were keen to accept the challenge to attempt to earn a few pounds and fame by riding the already famous outlaw, Dargan’s Grey. Neither stayed in the saddle very long, but Martini was impressed with their ability and invited them to join the show.
Being classified as Aboriginal, they were denied the freedom to leave the district. Journalist, Bill Bowyang, who was working in Proserpine at the time, contacted the local member for Bowen seeking permission for them to join the show. Two days later, a telegram of consent arrived. Emmerson, however, decided that buckjumping was not for him.
In Sydney in 1906, Billy took out the title of Champion Roughrider of Australia. While there, he and his wife, Marion Smith, became the star attraction in “The Wild Australia Show”.

The Waites moved to England during World War 1, then they went to Canada where Billy broke in horses for the war effort. Later, in the USA, they toured with the Orpheum circuit where they cracked whips (as long as 65 foot or 19.8m) and threw boomerangs. They appeared in various shows along with Annie Oakley and Buffalo Bill. Billy continued to win roughriding contests often while cracking a stockwhip! They also travelled to Malaya, Java and India.

Extract from “How to tackle a vicious horse” by Billy Waite  

It may interest you to know that … hundreds of wild horses used to roam about the ranges near my home. They are called "brumbies," and once broken in they possess remarkable endurance. …. I caught one once, when I was only fourteen … and soon broke him in. … he came in very useful not long after. … A boy was shot by accident at Glen Isla, and the nearest doctor was fifty-two miles away, at Bowen. So, I saddled my brumby … and rode off at 7 p.m. You can imagine the power of my mount when I tell you I came back with the doctor at 6 a.m. next morning, having covered the 104 miles in eleven hours. …

One of the biggest jobs I ever tackled in my life was during the South African War, when I rode 450 horses in two and a half days for the Government inspection for active service at the front. On the first day I rode 250, which is’, I believe, a record, trotting each of them fifty yards or so, and cantering them back. The "rogues" were cast aside and only the tractable ones selected for service. I had six men catching and saddling them for me ….

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Billy Waite died in New York in March 1941 and is buried in the Kensico Cemetery where a brass plaque marks the grave of this famous buckjumper from Proserpine.

And so, a chance meeting and an extraordinarily special skill, saw the young Billy Waite catapulted onto the World Stage.

Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Society Museum

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Bowen Tourism and Business is hosting a networking event next week, to be held immediately after the organisation’s Annual General Meeting.

The event will be held at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre, right next to the Big Mango.

The most recent networking event was held at Birds Fish Bar in July and was huge success.

Chair of Bowen Tourism Business, Jenn Honnery said the committee would like to see more networking events and she encouraged all members to attend to ensure another successful event.

“It was decided to hold the AGM and networking at the Visitor Information Centre this year to showcase the expanded range of merchandise and services offered at the centre,” she said.

“At the Annual General Meeting, we will highlight the achievements of the past 12 months and introduce four new committee members.

“The networking will also be a celebration as our team recently won three prizes at the Tourism Whitsundays annual awards.

“We are proud of our achievements in recent years which includes several awards and improving the profitability of the organisation, allowing us to increase our spend on destination marketing to benefit Bowen, Collinsville and the entire Whitsundays region,” she said.

Bowen Tourism and Business has more than 200 members with many being from outside the tourism sector as the organisation believes that “Tourism is Everybody’s Business”.
 

What: Bowen Tourism and Business Networking and Annual General Meeting
When: Thursday 7th November from 6pm
Where: Bowen Visitor Information Centre next to the Big Mango
RSVP: Friday 1 November to info@tourismbowen.com.au

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Meet Pascal, the zaniest feline teenager around! He's got swag and isn't afraid to show it. This self-assured adolescent kitty is still learning the ropes of being a social butterfly, so be prepared for some playful mischief.
While still having some growing up to do, Pascal vacillates between caution and hyperactivity. If you have a feisty feline friend with comparable energy for him to play with, that'd be purrfect and would greatly enhance his socialisation.
While Pascal is a great companion, he requests a home with no children - Pascal needs grown-ups who can keep up with his antics. He requires patient owners with some cat experience and the willingness to invest time in his training.
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If you think Pascal would make a good addition to your family email: bowencollinsville@gmail.com with your contact number and email address.

Rehoming fee: $170
Age: 1 years old
Sex: Male
Other dogs: untested
Other Cats: Yes
Children: No
Vaccinated: Yes
Desexed: Yes
Microchipped: yes

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Jackie Froyland clearly remembers the hardest part of being diagnosed with breast cancer at age 44.
She dreaded telling her four children, aged 15, 13, 7 and 5 and her partner, but telling her mum was absolutely “heartbreaking”.
“I went for a mammogram for no other reason than my mum’s neighbour had breast cancer picked up from a routine screening. So I decided I had better go for one at BreastScreen as well,” she said.
“I booked in and had it done and a week or so later they phoned and said they wanted me to come back in so they could look further at something.
“They told me ‘It might be nothing, we might do a biopsy, people have these all the time’.”
Jackie had the follow-up ultrasound and a biopsy done on Wednesday 17 March and returned to the BreastScreen clinic for her results two days later on her way to work.
“The doctor told me that I wasn’t going to go to work that day,” she said.
“They told me there was a cancer. ‘You will need surgery, you will need to make some phone calls, make appointments, get a referral, pick a surgeon’; it was really very overwhelming.
“You just automatically think the worst and afterwards I sat in the carpark and cried.
“Ringing my partner and loved ones who were waiting for me to advise I’d been given the ‘all-clear’ and repeating those words, that was the worst.”
Fortunately, Jackie’s 1.2cm Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS), a type of cancer found in the milk ducts, was found early.
“They said it was actually good because the mammogram did exactly what it was supposed to do – it detected my breast cancer early,” she said.
“I probably wouldn’t have even gone for that screening that day if I hadn’t heard from my mum about her neighbour’s cancer diagnosis.”
Jackie had two surgeries to remove the cancer and a lymph node followed by 15 radiation sessions.
“I had radiation every day after work for three weeks in June and started on the hormone medication Tamoxifen in July,” she said.
“I was given the all-clear in February 2022 although I still have yearly blood tests and see my surgeon and oncologist twice a year, as well as now having to take the hormone blocker tablets for five years.”
Jackie, who is now an administration officer in the Emergency Department at Mackay Base Hospital, recognises that her BreastScreen visit that day helped detect changes that were too small to be felt during a physical examination.
“As important as self-examination is I would never have picked this up myself without that mammogram. I was lucky,” Jackie said.
“So I really feel like I owe it to others to tell my story. I hope it’s the encouragement they need to go and get a breast check.
“If you are aged 40, please book in for a routine mammogram – those 10 minutes of discomfort just might save your life.”
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FACTS:
• October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
• Breast cancer is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia and the most common cancer among females.
• Everyday 58 people in Australia will be diagnosed with breast cancer. That equates to over 21,000 people in Australia being diagnosed with breast cancer each year.
• Book an appointment at the mobile screening by phoning 13 20 50 or visit https://www.breastscreen.qld.gov.au/make-an-appointment

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Jackie Froyland was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 44. Photo credit: Mackay Hospital and Health Service

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By Amanda Wright

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In a split second, the world shifts—what began as a routine moment of motherhood becomes a thunderous alarm bell, revealing a hidden enemy within, as the stark discovery of a breast cancer lump ignites an unrelenting battle, forcing an extraordinary journey of resilience, courage, and the fight for survival.
This was the case for Louise Bennet, whose world shattered when a lump she thought was harmless turned out to be aggressive breast cancer.
At just 34, with her baby in her arms, she faced a brutal battle of mastectomy, chemotherapy, and radiation. Her 10cm scar is not just a mark of survival but a battle cry for every woman to trust their instincts.
From Louise’s story, a clear message emerges. No one is too young for breast cancer. If something feels wrong, act now. Your life could depend on it.

Embracing each moment together, Queensland mother Louise Bennet and her daughter Evie remind us that love and resilience shine brighter than any battle scar. This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, they embody the strength of a mother’s heart and the joy of life's precious journey. Photo credit: Annette Dew

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The Stories Behind The Scars
Breast Cancer Awareness Month

The 10cm scar across Louise Bennet’s chest is a lasting symbol of her battle with breast cancer.
The 34-year-old mother discovered a lump in her breast while breastfeeding her daughter Evie in January last year. Initially, she thought it might be a common breastfeeding issue, like mastitis, but months later, scans revealed the shocking reality: Louise had aggressive triple-negative breast cancer, along with DCIS (Ductal Carcinoma in Situ), a form of cancer in the milk ducts.
Louise, like many others, hadn’t anticipated a diagnosis like this at such a young age. Her message is clear—being breast aware is critical, and no one is too young to be diagnosed.
“I share my story because if I can be open about my experience, I hope I can empower other women to be proud of their bodies.
“My scar is a reminder of the journey I have been on—the journey that has kept me alive and will continue to keep me alive. I don’t feel any less, and I am able to walk through the world as I am—my body is still accepted wherever I go,” Louise said.
Louise underwent a mastectomy followed by 15 rounds of chemotherapy and 16 rounds of radiation. Despite the physical and emotional toll, she remains positive, urging others to be proud of their own journeys.
"From the very moment I found out I had cancer, I was determined to heal, and I am grateful for the multidisciplinary team at Mater, and my friends and family, for making that happen.
“I wasn’t concerned about my physical appearance and did whatever I could to be healthy and look to the future."
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and Louise’s story is a timely reminder for all women to take their health into their own hands. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Australia, and early detection is key. Women are encouraged to be their own health advocates—perform regular self-examinations and seek medical advice if anything seems unusual. If concerns persist or if you feel your concerns aren’t being fully addressed, don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion. Advocating for your own health is crucial, as early intervention can be life-saving.
Breast surgeon Dr. Sally Meade, who treated Louise, noted that mastectomies, while visually and emotionally impactful, have a surprisingly quick recovery time.
“There’s not too much pain, and most patients are able to go home within a day or two,” Dr. Meade said. She emphasised that the management of breast cancer is highly personalised, with multidisciplinary teams supporting women every step of the way.
"At Mater, we have compassionate teams of radiologists, oncologists, reconstructive surgeons, breast care nurses, and therapists all working together to provide holistic care."
Louise’s treatment journey concluded in April, but she will continue regular check-ups to monitor her health. She credits her family, friends, and the expert team at Mater for helping her stay strong throughout her cancer battle.
“After 15 rounds of chemotherapy and 16 rounds of radiation, I am still smiling.
“I was determined to heal from the disease and being able to care for my Evie was a priority,” she said.
For Louise, survival has become a source of empowerment.
“I have learned that before anything else, I need to love myself. With various markings and scars on my body, I certainly look like I’ve been through some stuff, but it’s just evolution."
Louise’s story serves as a powerful reminder to all women: Be proactive, trust your instincts, and never be afraid to seek a second opinion. Your health is in your hands, and early action could make all the difference.

Are You Breast Aware? It’s vital to perform regular self-breast examinations to monitor for any changes. Statistics show that 40 per cent of breast cancers are detected by women who feel a lump. Regular self-exams can help with early detection, and the sooner cancer is identified, the better the chances of successful treatment.
Dr. Cindy Mak, Director of Breast Services at Chris O'Brien Lifehouse, emphasises that while mammograms are essential for early detection, self-exams play an equally important role.
“Mammograms can catch cancer before you feel a lump, but self-examinations help women become familiar with how their breasts look and feel, which can make it easier to spot any changes,” Dr. Mak said.

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Louise Bennet and her daughter Evie radiate love and resilience. This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, they remind us that even amid life’s battles, the bond of family shines brighter than ever. Photo credit: Annette Dew

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On Saturday, October 19th, Rover Matthew Vella was presented with the prestigious Baden Powell Scout Award, the highest honour in Scouting for his age group.

The award ceremony was attended by notable figures, including Mayor Greg Williamson and Region Commissioner Dougal McWhinney, who both commended Matthew for his well-deserved achievements.

Mayor Williamson even recalled presenting Matthew with his Queen Scout Award as a Venturer in 2019, highlighting his ongoing commitment to Scouting.

Matthew, supported by his family, received his award from Joanne Hamilton, with Rover Unit Chair Kat Allen outlining the significant work involved in achieving this accomplishment. The Baden Powell Scout Award requires completing six challenging elements, each demanding at least 18 hours of effort, along with a personal development course, an adventurous journey, and proficiency in outdoor adventure skills.

Since joining Rovers in 2019, Matthew demonstrated a remarkable work ethic, quickly setting his sights on the award. He earned a Certificate II in Outdoor Recreation, provided service to younger Scouts and took on leadership roles in large Scouting events. His passion for the outdoors extended beyond Scouting, as he also completed a Diploma of Outdoor Leadership.

One of Matthew’s personal achievements has been mastering Greenland-style rolling for sea kayaking, a difficult skill that requires intense practice. He can now execute seven consecutive rolls and sometimes adds an eighth for fun. This passion for kayaking will continue, as Matthew has accepted the challenge of coordinating the water base for the Australian Scout Jamboree (AJ2025) in Maryborough, where 9,000 Scouts will participate in water-based activities over 10 days.

As part of his personal development, Matthew earned his Wood Badge and a Certificate IV in Leadership and Management. His adventurous journey involved a 5-day sea kayaking expedition around the Keppel Bay Islands, covering 88.4 km and visiting nine islands.

In his speech, Matthew reflected on his Scouting journey and encouraged others to embrace the opportunities Scouting offers.

“Scouting offers opportunities you can’t even begin to imagine. It challenges you to grow, to explore, and to lead. So, when life presents you with a new opportunity, take it.

“Step into the unknown, because that’s where growth happens…You never know what doors it will open or where it might lead, but I can promise you this—it will lead to something extraordinary.”

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Pictured with Mayor Greg Williamson and Joanne Hamilton, Matthew celebrated this milestone alongside his family and fellow Scouts. Photos supplied

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As the Queensland elections loom, we find ourselves in a familiar yet invigorating cycle of public discourse and spirited debate. It’s no small feat for candidates to step up and put themselves out there for scrutiny, juggling the expectations of their communities while navigating the often turbulent waters of politics. I have immense respect for those who have dedicated months to their campaigns, genuinely listening to locals and identifying the pressing issues that affect us all.
Elections are not just a referendum on individual candidates but a litmus test for our collective aspirations. They present a pivotal moment for reflection—on the values we uphold, the issues we prioritise, and the vision we collectively embrace for our future.
With the polls approaching, it’s a prime opportunity for fresh ideas and policies to take centre stage—policies that could truly position Queensland as a leading place to live and thrive. Our elected officials have a critical role to play; from supporting the most vulnerable in our community to championing the business leaders who drive our economy, their decisions will shape our collective future.
True leadership isn’t just about making grand promises; it’s about fostering a community where everyone has the opportunity to flourish. It’s a delicate balancing act—ensuring that the needs of the many are met while encouraging innovation and growth. When we support one another, we build a stronger, more resilient society that benefits all.
You can find our election feature on pages 9-13, covering the Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce debate, key announcements from candidates as well as a list of locations throughout the region where you can cast your vote.
In a world increasingly driven by polarising rhetoric, it is vital that we champion leaders who are attuned to the pressing challenges we face. Ultimately, the integrity of our democracy rests on the premise that every voice matters, so make your vote count.
Amanda

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Caring has the remarkable ability to transform the ordinary into something truly special.

The ambulatory and elective care team at Mackay Base Hospital exemplifies this sentiment by coming together to support those in their community who need it most. In response to a heartfelt request from Chances House Mackay, which supports vulnerable individuals and families dealing with crises like homelessness and hunger, the committed team promptly sprang into action to create a positive impact.

With compassion and determination, they collected an array of food donations. Partnering with Woolworths Ooralea, the team assembled an impressive basket filled with non-perishable items. This generous contribution was delivered to Chances last week, reflecting the spirit of giving that defines their commitment to the community.

Unfortunately, homelessness remains a pressing issue, impacting many in the region. The compassionate actions of the hospital staff aim not only to provide immediate relief to those in need but also to raise awareness about the challenges faced by vulnerable individuals and families in Mackay.

Through their efforts, the ambulatory and elective care team is not only offering support but also shining a light on the importance of caring for one another in the community.

A spokesperson from the ambulatory and elective care team commented: “Our very generous staff hope this donation provides some relief to those in need, but also helps raise awareness and prompts others to consider those in our region who are less fortunate.”

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Mackay Airport has launched a new program aimed at better supporting customers with ‘invisible’ conditions such as autism, dementia, anxiety and more.
The Hidden Disabilities Program offers a discreet way for travellers to indicate to airport staff that they may need a little extra help or guidance.
Customers can choose to wear a sunflower lanyard or badge when they are travelling through Mackay Airport. Staff have been trained to recognise the symbol and will be prepared to provide additional support, if required. Some staff will also wear a sunflower badge or lanyard to help travellers feel more at ease.
Hidden disabilities can include autism, anxiety, dementia, mental health conditions, visual impairments, deaf or hard of hearing.
Mackay Airport Head of Operations Adrian Miles said creating an inclusive environment for all visitors to Mackay Airport was a top priority.
“Everyone deserves to have an enjoyable airport experience regardless of their abilities or where they are travelling to,” he said.
“The Hidden Disabilities Program offers a simple, yet highly effective way to take the stress out of travel for many in our community, by providing reassurance and a more predictable journey.”
The Hidden Disabilities Program enables customers to pre-plan their journey and make it as seamless as possible. Anyone who wishes to use a sunflower lanyard or badge simply needs to register online at the Mackay Airport website, and the items will be sent directly to them. The lanyards can be used at airports across Australia. Other airports that support the Hidden Disabilities Program include Cairns, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth. The program is backed by the Australian Airports Association.
Mackay mum Corissa Ivory said navigating noisy, bright and unfamiliar airport environments could be challenging for her 12-year-old son Logan and their family.
“The Hidden Disabilities Program will be an amazing asset and credit to Mackay Airport, helping travellers and families with disabilities to feel understood and accepted, and encouraging them to have confidence in their travel journey,” she said.
“It will create a more positive experience for neurodiverse travellers by creating an enjoyable transition through the airport, while obeying all the necessary safety protocols and guidelines.”
The launch of Mackay Airport’s Hidden Disabilities Program coincides with Invisible Disabilities Awareness Week 2024. For more information or to register for the Hidden Disabilities Program, visit Hidden Disabilities » Mackay Airport online.

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Corissa Ivory and her 12-year-old son, Logan. Photos supplied
Logan Ivory with Adrian Miles

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By Hannah McNamara

Mackay Regional Chamber of Commerce and Mackay Engineering College recently partnered to gift two refurbished cars to deserving recipients as part of their Cars for Community initiative. This program allows local students to gain hands-on automotive experience while contributing to a meaningful community cause.

Rebecca Snell, a counsellor for the Trudy Crowley Foundation, was one of those recipients. Ms Snell, who frequently travels long distances to tirelessly provide support to clients, was nominated for her selfless dedication to serving individuals in need. The gift of a car will allow her to continue offering critical home visits and assistance to those in remote areas. She expressed her gratitude, saying, "I’m very shocked, thank you so much.”

“We do a lot of home visits and community work, so it’s going to help greatly with that… I don’t even know what to say."

David Dobbie, a representative from the Salvation Army, also received a car through the program. His new vehicle will be used to assist learner drivers in reaching their required driving hours, an essential step toward obtaining their licenses. Mr Dobbie, like Ms Snell, was deeply appreciative of the students' efforts in fixing the cars, which were previously unroadworthy and destined for the scrap yard.

Simon Korneliussen, an automotive trainer and assessor at Mackay Engineering College, led the project, guiding grade eleven and twelve students from various schools through the complex task of restoring the vehicles.

"Every car comes in with a different set of problems to fix, so it’s a lot of work for them to learn from," Korneliussen said.

The cars required extensive repairs, from timing chain issues to suspension problems and oil leaks. These repairs provided students with real-world experience, enhancing their skills and preparing them for careers in the automotive industry.

The project received tremendous support from local businesses. Repco Mackay, now in its second year as a major sponsor, supplied the necessary parts for the students to complete their repairs. A grant from Major Training also enabled the college to purchase the cars for restoration.

Students, such as Deizel Kite, have found the project extremely invaluable and enjoyable.

"It’s really exhilarating to be able to give to those people in need the cars that we’ve enjoyed working on," Deizel shared.

Director of the Trudy Crowley Foundation, Jacquie Camilleri, praised the work of the students and the organisation behind the initiative for gifting her “beautiful councillor” a new car.

“We wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for this amazing community of Mackay, that is so giving to us, and here we are again today with other people blessing us,” Ms Camilleri said.

“These beautiful young people here, I just thank you so much for all your hard work, you don’t know what it means to us.”

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Rebecca Snell, a counsellor with the Trudy Crowley Foundation, and Salvation Army representative David Dobbie were each provided with new vehicles to support their ongoing, commendable work in the community. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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A 44-year-old Mirani man has been charged following an alleged series of arson and assaults in the Sarina area on the night of October 18.
Authorities were alerted shortly before 7pm, responding to reports that a man had allegedly set fire to a unit complex on Railway Square. Following this, it is alleged the man threatened several people with an axe at a nearby hotel before assaulting a man with the weapon. He is also accused of breaking into a grocery store and a liquor store during the rampage.
The man then allegedly fled the scene in a Nissan Navara utility. A short time later, at a property along the Bruce Highway in Chelona, the suspect allegedly assaulted another man in an attempt to steal a vehicle.
By around 8pm, the Nissan Navara had allegedly crashed into a house on Homebush Road in Rosella, and the suspect is accused of striking a pedestrian before fleeing the scene on foot.
With assistance from the police dog squad, officers apprehended the man in Bakers Creek shortly after 8pm.
He has been charged with one count each of arson, going armed to cause fear, trespassing, dangerous operation of a vehicle, and unlawful use of a motor vehicle, alongside four counts each of wilful damage and assault occasioning bodily harm. The man was remanded in custody and appeared in Mackay Magistrates Court on Monday, October 21.
The suspect, identified as Raymond Thomas Whyte, has had his case adjourned until January 28 next year.

High-risk Domestic Violence Offender Charged
Moranbah investigators continue to take strong action against high-risk domestic violence offenders, charging a 47-year-old Moranbah man on October 16.
Police will allege the man stalked and seriously assaulted a woman in a series of incidents over the past year.
Following investigations, the man was taken into custody mid-morning Wednesday, October 16.
He has been charged with five counts of common assault (domestic violence offence), two counts of strangulation (domestic violence offence), and one count each of grievous bodily harm and unlawful stalking.
Detective Inspector Emma Novosel said officers in the Mackay Whitsunday District will continue to maintain a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to high-harm offenders in the community.
“We are committed to doing everything within our power to ensure violent offences are investigated, and victims are protected,” said Detective Inspector Novosel.
“Our Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) High Risk Team is dedicated to ensuring victims are supported and protected, and offenders are brought before the court.”
“The Mackay Whitsunday District are dedicated to ensuring victims are protected and supported.”
“The Vulnerable Person Unit work closely with investigators and officers across the Mackay Whitsunday District to ensure Domestic Violence offenders are held to account and bought before the court at every opportunity.”
“If you see or hear acts of violence, we encourage you to come forward to police as soon as possible.”
The 47-year-old man has been remanded in custody and due to reappear before Mackay Magistrates Court December 5.

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