Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
A single-vehicle bus crash has sadly claimed the life of one passenger at Gumlu, north of Bowen overnight. According to initial police investigations, at approximately 4pm on Thursday 14th May, a bus with 29 people on board was travelling south along the Bruce Highway from Cairns to Airlie Beach, when it left the roadway and rolled onto its side. Several other passengers were injured and transported to Townsville, Ayr, and Bowen Hospitals. The bus driver, a 70-year-old Mackay man, was transported to Bowen Hospital with minor injuries. As of Friday morning, three patients are confirmed to be in a life-threatening condition with one assessed on the scene and two airlifted to Townsville University Hospital. Multiple people were injured and transported to Ayr Hospital before being airlifted to Townsville University Hospital by Royal Flying Doctor’s Service. There are eight stable patients in Townsville whilst one remains in a stable condition at Ayr. The Bruce Highway has reopened at Gumlu. This tragic accident comes less than two years after a fatal bus crash on the same stretch of the Bruce Highway, which claimed the lives of three women in on June 3rd, 2024. On this occasion, a Greyhound bus with 33 people on board was travelling north along the Bruce Highway, also near Gumlu, when it crossed over to the wrong side of the road and into oncoming traffic. The bus struck a Land Cruiser station wagon travelling in the opposite direction. A 56 year old Townsville woman and two German women aged 21 and 33 passed away as a result of the incident. The 52-year-old bus driver from North Ward was charged with five counts of dangerous operation of a vehicle causing death or grievous bodily harm, but was subsequently found not guilty. Anyone with relevant dash cam vision of incident last night is urged to contact police. Investigations are continuing
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So, what’s going on with the property market? The thing about the property market is that it doesn’t stand alone in its own little world untouched by the drama going on around it. And there is a fair bit of drama at the moment. Let’s get all the dramas to form a conga line and point them out one at a time. First there’s inflation, an annoying factor that adds to the cost of living and affects people’s ability to buy real estate. Right behind inflation, and I mean very close, is its brother in arms/partner in crime/long-time bedfellow, interest rates. Interest rates have been particularly pesky lately as the Reserve Bank pushes them up in an attempt to bring inflation down. The idea is to make housing less affordable so you can make housing more affordable. Then there’s a war in the Middle East. War is very good for business if you are a weapons producer and part of the military-industrial complex but it’s not very good for everyone else. It certainly isn’t good for confidence and housing markets are pretty big on the old confidence factor. So, not good. This particular war has the additional benefit of taking place in the Persian Gulf, where a fair portion of the world’s oil is transported from Middle East oil producers to the rest of the world. The war has created a traffic jam in the Strait of Hormuz, which is restricting the supply of oil, meaning that in a world of demand and supply the price of fuel at the petrol bowser has gone up significantly. Which means our old friends inflation and interest rates give us another wave from the conga line and remind us of another impact on the property market. The conga line of dramas was joined this week by the Federal Budget and its changes to negative gearing, up until now a key driver in property investment and the supply of rental properties. Nothing changes for people who had negatively geared properties up until Budget night. My Pommy colleague Andy Collins, the Sales Manager at Gardian real estate, pointed out after the Budget that there was no way the changes would include investors’ existing properties because too many politicians own investment properties and the pollies wouldn’t do anything to hurt themselves. It’s up to you whether you think Andy is a sniping little Pommy whinger or an astute judge of human nature. Or can he be both? What Andy correctly pointed out is that from now on investors will be looking for properties that provide such good rental returns that they are positively geared, removing the need for negative gearing. That’s where Mackay’s strong rental returns come into it. Investors from southern markets have been active in the Mackay market because of those rental returns. When they can get returns like $750 a week on properties they have bought for $650,000, those southern investors realise Mackay offers better opportunities than the high-priced, low-rent options in their own cities. Andy was suggesting that it is possible that the budget changes will spur even more investment activity in Mackay because the removal of negative gearing makes investments in other markets unviable. I will delve further into the status of the Mackay market in upcoming columns but there are a few initial points to make. There is no doubt that, like every other market, the conga line of dramas has had an impact and given buyers pause for thought. But we are still seeing strong buyer activity and properties selling. As always, the buoyancy of our coal market and the jobs and business it provides will continue to be a driver of our economy and a key factor in the property market. Will the budget changes create an additional spur to our market and bring more investors in or is that conga line going to have a bigger impact? Stay tuned over the coming months.
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With more than three decades of experience and deep roots in the land, Royce Dunn brings unmatched insight to rural property across the Mackay region. Joining Blacks Real Estate in 1991, Royce is a licensed real estate agent and auctioneer, who has spent the past 25 years as Director leading the agency’s rural department. Over that time, he has built a strong reputation for his knowledge across all areas of property sales and marketing, from farmhouses and grazing land to residential subdivisions. Coming from a rural background and operating his own small farm, Royce understands the realities of life on the land, and the expectations that come with it. That lived experience allows him to connect with clients on a practical level, offering advice that is grounded, honest and tailored to the needs of farming families. Known for his straightforward approach and strong work ethic, Royce is committed to delivering results, working closely with clients to navigate the complexities of rural property transactions and achieve the best possible outcome.
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From wildlife caring, to country kitchens or supporting people with disability – a world of volunteering opportunities awaits at this year’s Volunteer Expo! This year’s event is set to be one of the biggest on record, with 55 community, support and other organisations have registered. The Volunteer Expo is being held at the Mackay Showgrounds on Sunday, May 17 from 9am until midday. Deputy Mayor Karen May said volunteering is at the heart of sustainable and supportive communities. “There are so many benefits to volunteering – from the people and organisations being supported, to those who so generously donate their time and skills. It increases community and individual wellbeing and drives positive change in the community,” Deputy Mayor May said. “What’s great about events like our Volunteers Expo is it gives people a one-stop shop to see what’s out there – and it could be something you’d never thought of,” she said. “Feedback from previous years shows how valuable this expo is to our community groups, with one organisation signing up more than a dozen volunteers on the day.” Data from Volunteering Queensland shows that for every $1 invested in volunteering, there’s a $4.70 return to the community. More than 110,000 jobs were created in 2024 through spending on volunteering – with the sector worth more than $117-billion to the state economy. Cr May said volunteering gives people to build on their passions while learning new skills and meeting new people. “It also opens up opportunities beyond the organisation a person volunteers with – it can help build new professional relationships and create new connections,” she said. “Data from Volunteering Queensland shows the overwhelming majority of people (64 percent) volunteer because they want to help others and the Volunteers Expo has dozens of options for people to help others. Entry to the Mackay Volunteer Expo is free. For more information, visit the event page on Facebook
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Nestled in the heart of the Whitsundays, Tassal’s Proserpine prawn farm is proving to be much more than a seafood producer. It is a quiet local success story, combining innovation, sustainability, and a strong sense of community.
The farm, which supplies prawns across the country, is run by locals and focused on local impact. From jobs and training to environmental care and community partnerships, Tassal’s presence in Proserpine is making a meaningful difference.
Over the past year, Tassal has spent almost $55,000 supporting community groups, events and causes across the Whitsundays. This includes local associations such as the Whitsunday Brahman Rugby League, the Cannonvale Swimming Club, the Great Barrier Reef festival, the Whitsunday Show, the Proserpine Golf Club, and the Whitsunday Turtle Rescue Centre.
Tassal’s Manager – Stakeholder and Community Engagement, Courtney Quinn-McCabe, said the company’s community support in the Whitsundays was about giving back in a way that built real, lasting value.
“We believe that when industry and community work side by side, we can achieve much more,” she said. “Our support is about more than sponsorship. It is about helping local groups grow, creating opportunities, and building strong, long-term relationships in the communities where we live and work.”
Tassal has developed a water efficiency plan specifically for its Proserpine site. This is part of a broader approach to responsible aquaculture that includes automated pond aeration, AI-based feeding systems, and real-time water quality monitoring. These tools allow the farm to reduce waste, care for animal health, and ensure long-term sustainability.
The company is also committed to creating jobs in the region. Tassal prefers to hire locally where possible and provides career development opportunities through structured training and leadership programs. It is not uncommon to hear stories of workers who joined as juniors and are now leading teams or mentoring others.
“Our team is part of this community,” Ms Quinn-McCabe said. “We live here, we work here, and we want to see the Whitsundays thrive.”
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One of the great joys of being Mayor is getting out into the community and celebrating the people and projects that are shaping our Whitsunday region for the better.
Last week, I had the pleasure of joining Deputy Mayor Michelle Wright and Cr John Finlay in Bowen to officially open two major sporting facility upgrades that will make a real difference for grassroots sport in our Whitsunday region.
First up was the new field lighting at the Bowen Sporting Complex – a $600,000 project jointly funded by Council and the Queensland Government. With lighting now up to standard for night cricket and football, this upgrade opens the door to more games, more participation, and better opportunities for local clubs and athletes.
Later in the day, we joined the Bowen Seagulls committee to celebrate the completion of the Denison Park amenities upgrade – a $1.6 million investment by the Queensland Government that’s delivered new change rooms, a gym, boardroom, accessible toilets and showers, and space to support growing teams and female participation.
Let’s be clear – projects like these don’t just happen. They’re the result of tireless advocacy from both Council and the community.
While I’ve been proud to advocate at every level of government to help secure funding for these upgrades, it’s the locals – like our club volunteers – who put in countless hours of their own time to drive these projects forward and ensure their clubs and communities get the facilities they deserve.
People like Brandon Mackie and Jill Warren, President and Secretary of the Bowen Sporting Complex Coordination Association, and Shane Douglas from the Bowen Seagulls, who volunteer hundreds of hours every year, often behind the scenes, to ensure future generations have access to top-class facilities.
Their passion, persistence and leadership are what keep the wheels turning. From grant applications and committee meetings to line-marking fields and mentoring juniors, these are the people building a strong sporting future from the ground up.
We are incredibly lucky to have such dedicated volunteers in our region. Their efforts make our towns stronger, our kids more connected, and our sporting legacy more secure.
A big thank you also to Minister Dale Last and the Queensland Government for their partnership on both projects. Council will continue to advocate for investment in local sport as we head toward 2032 and beyond.
In the Whitsundays, sport is more than just a game – it’s community, it’s pride, and it’s a legacy worth investing in.
Did you know?
Public consultation for the draft Airlie Beach Masterplan will close this Sunday 17 August.
Responding to community feedback, the masterplan sets a bold vision for our next generation of experiences, envisioning catalyst projects, public space upgrades and inspiring private investment in the lead-up to the 2032 Olympics and beyond.
Don’t miss your last chance to help shape the future of Airlie Beach by offering your insights on the proposed projects.
For more information and to complete the survey, visit Council’s Online Engagement Portal, Your Say Whitsunday.
The Bowen Tourism and Business volunteers enjoyed a “Christmas in July” celebration last month with a lovely dinner at the Queen’s Beach Hotel in Bowen.
The staff and volunteers all donned their favourite Christmas outfits for the evening.
Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said the volunteers were an integral part of the organisation and this was a way of saying thank you.
The 18 volunteers welcome thousands of visitors each year at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre next to the Big Mango and at the information booth at Bowen’s Front Beach.
“Our volunteers are passionate about Bowen and the entire region, and they are very knowledgeable,” Leanne said.
“They welcome every visitor with a smile and go above and beyond to provide information about our attractions, businesses, culture and history.”
It has been a big year for the organisation with Bowen winning the Top Tourism Town in Queensland, the Big Mango being named the “Best Big Thing” in Queensland and the team welcoming a record number of visitors.
“None of these achievements would have been possible without our wonderful volunteers," added Leanne.
“The dinner was also a good chance for everyone to get together as a team, the volunteers all work on different days and don’t see each other very often.
“After such a busy 12 months, we thought it was time we all had a night out to celebrate.
“Thanks also to the Queen’s Beach Hotel – it was a fantastic evening.”
Contributed with thanks to Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business Leanne Abernethy
Volunteers from Bowen Tourism and Business enjoyed their Christmas in July
Kevin Clarke, Viv Clarke and Glenn Womal
Kate Mackie, Trudy Starkey and Cindy Tonks
Photos supplied
From electric scooters to Rolls-Royces, Precision Auto Service has built a reputation for repairing, servicing, and modifying just about anything on wheels.
Now in its third year of trading, the locally owned business is led by manager and owner Matt Battams, who brings 28 years of experience in the automotive industry.
Starting as a tyre fitter at just 14, Matt went on to work with top-tier brands including Volkswagen, Rolls-Royce, and Mercedes, and even prepared Aston Martins for exhibition racing at the Grand Prix. He is a certified Aston Martin Master Technician, with training also in Maserati and other high-end vehicles.
Precision Auto Service offers a wide range of services, from logbook servicing and insurance repairs to specialist off-road modifications. With a wide variety of techincians and servicemen, Precision Auto Service has the right fit for you.
Four-wheel-drive upgrades are a specialty, with staff member Jared renowned for his expertise in custom exhaust systems and other off-road enhancements.
The workshop boasts an international team, with mechanics from countries including Scotland, Canada, New Zealand, and the USA, each bringing unique skills. Services extend beyond cars to include motorcycles, mobility scooters, golf carts, tuk-tuks, and even children’s electric cars.
Precision Auto Service also supports the community, quietly sponsoring local festivals, school events, fishing competitions, and golf tournaments, often donating car service vouchers as prizes.
Their philosophy is simple, provide quality workmanship and take the time to do the job properly.
Precision Auto Service covering all motor needs big or small. Photo supplied
Two and half years and they still keep metal out of landfiil!
It’s been 2.5 years since local siblings Luke and Clare took the reins at Whitsunday Recyclers in Proserpine, and their mission remains the same: to divert valuable metal from landfill and give it a second life.
Now, they’re expanding that mission—offering on-site farm clean-ups to help rural property owners clear out old machinery, fencing, and scrap metal with ease.
“We’ve had a lot of interest from landholders needing help with bigger clean-ups, so we’re making it easy by coming to you,” said Luke.
“We arrive with our hook truck and excavator with grab, ready to load and remove everything in one go—no hassle, no heavy lifting for you.”
Based at 19 Anzac Road, Proserpine, Whitsunday Recyclers continues to support the Whitsunday community by offering:
• Farm clean-ups
• Free scrap metal bins for business and residential properties
• Free pick-ups of all scrap metal types – including used batteries
• A yard full of metal off-cuts and parts to purchase, perfect for repairs and DIY
And yes—they offer cash for scrap, paying fair prices for a wide range of metals including copper, brass, aluminium, stainless steel, and more.
“We’re proud of how far the site has come. It’s cleaner, friendlier, and we’re busier than ever—thanks to locals who want to do the right thing,” said Clare.
Whether you’re running a busy job site, clearing out the garage, or finally tackling that farm clean-up, Whitsunday Recyclers makes metal recycling simple and worthwhile."
To book a farm clean-up or learn more, drop into the yard or call the team today.
When Marla was rescued while pregnant, she had only just made it to safety. Since then, this gentle 7-year-old Staffy-cross has poured her heart into raising her pups. Now that her mothering duties are complete, it’s finally her turn to find a loving forever home.
Marla is the very definition of a sweetheart. She adores children, gets along with dogs and cats, and even makes friends with roosters. With her affectionate nature and easygoing temperament, she would thrive in a kind, caring family where she can be part of the action.
Her favourite things in life are cuddles (the more the better), playtime with anyone who’s keen, and sharing time with her people. She’s also never one to turn down a tasty treat.
Marla’s adoption fee is $400, which includes desexing and all vaccinations.
If you’re ready to welcome this beautiful soul into your home, please send a message directly to Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue's Facebook page.
More than 600 students from Bowen State High School and Proserpine State High School explored future career opportunities at the 2025 Careers Expo, held in McKenna Hall last week.
The event brought together 40 stalls representing a wide range of industries, including health, mining, transport and logistics, disability support, emergency services, aged care, agriculture, fitness, and universities. Local businesses and regional companies were also on hand to share their expertise and advice.
For Year 12 students, the Careers Expo provided a timely opportunity to explore university courses, apprenticeships, traineeships, and direct employment pathways. Younger students in Years 7 and 8 also benefited by discovering industries they may wish to consider for work experience or future career options, while enjoying the interactive displays and merchandise offered at the stalls.
The event aimed to help students reflect on their interests and strengths, encouraging them to think about possible career directions without the pressure of having to decide immediately. It also provided a supportive environment for developing employability skills, such as confidently approaching exhibitors and engaging in professional conversations.
Many students used the day to further investigate career aspirations, arrange work experience opportunities, or gather information on school-based apprenticeships and university entry requirements.
Bowen State High School acknowledged the contribution of all businesses and organisations that attended, ensuring the success of this year’s Careers Expo.
Proserpine State High School students were treated to history coming to life with a special World War II Commemorative Convoy stopping at the school.
The commemorative convoy was led by Rockhampton Returned Services League members who are travelling to Townsville to commemorate the Victory Pacific 80th anniversary of the end of World War II and remember all who served in the Australian Military during that difficult time.
Dressing in Australian WWII period uniforms and driving authentically restored WWII trucks, jeeps and motorcycles, the gentlemen also have the special task of delivering an Official Commemorative Message to the Mayor of Townsville.
Rockhampton RSL VP80 Convoy Organiser, David Bell, said the aim of the school visit was to preserve and increase awareness about Australian wartime heritage and the experiences of service personnel during that era.
“It’s about us paying respect to those who fought and claimed victory as Australia would look very different today had there been a different outcome,” he said.
“We’re just doing our bit to keep their memory alive.”
The remarkable collection of items included a 1941 Oldsmobile sedan, 1943 Willys Jeep and trailer, a Ford Army Jeep, motorcycles, weapons and more.
Acting Head of Department – Humanities Brigette Foot said when connecting our young people with veterans, history is no longer something they read in a book or online, it becomes something they feel.
“Hearing their personal stories, marked by courage, humanity and resilience, offered a mesmerising, raw and chilling reminder that history truly lives in the voices of those who have served,” she said.
“Our Year 10 History and Year 11 and 12 Modern History students are profoundly grateful to the Rockhampton RSL VP80 Convoy for sharing their time and memories - reminding us all that service to something greater than yourself can bring empathy, hope and compassion into our future.”
Are we looking at the right statistics in the right way? For decades, society has rightly fought for women’s rights. But in the process, have some men been left behind? In the 1960s and ’70s, Australia introduced no-fault divorce laws, initially to protect women—especially those abandoned by husbands. These laws allowed women to retain the family home and often full custody of the children. At the time, it was a necessary reform. But five decades on, some are asking: do these laws now unfairly disadvantage men?
Whitsunday Pastor Andy Wilson married his high school sweetheart when he was just 21 years old. The couple went on to have four children together, bought a house in Brisbane and Andy ran his own business while his wife opted to be a stay at home mother. For many years life was idyllic, but then the marriage started to become strained.
Desperate to rekindle the spark Andy tried to woo his wife again, buying her flowers, leaving little notes for her to find and reading ‘Seven Ways To Be A Hero’ about how to win your wife back. He also sold their boat to renovate the kitchen and invested time improving the house so she could be happy.
Sadly, none of his efforts worked and he was asked to move out of the family home.
Andy rented a small room nearby to stay close to the children. Without a suitable home for overnight stays, and while continuing to financially support the family, he found himself paying over $500 per week in child support.
Meanwhile, his wife left for France on a holiday. During this time, Andy had access to the house while he was looking after the children. It was on one of these days that he saw a handwritten letter from France and curiosity got the better of him. The letter confirmed his suspicions: it was a love note to his wife.
Later that same day he looked on the family computer and discovered multiple images of his wife wearing different outfits. On each of them she had a black eye. He recalled her receiving this injury when their son accidentally swung his head into her. But here, it looked like a set-up. He realised, she was using this to try and incriminate him into a domestic violence allegation.
Andy took the hard drive and when his wife returned home she phoned him up rattled, trying to get him to admit to destroying the evidence. Andy recalls feeling like the police were listening in.
Though ultimately Andy wasn’t charged, the experience left him shaken. After speaking with a lawyer friend, Andy was told the legal battle would be lengthy and costly— his wife likely to receive up to 80% of the assets. Rather than fight, he chose to walk away and start over.
Sadly, Andy’s story isn’t uncommon. Many men report losing their homes, finances, and access to their children following divorce. While domestic violence laws are vital for protecting victims, some allege they are misused during custody disputes. Research suggests that separation and family court issues are contributing factors in male suicide. According to Dads In Distress, a national support group, separated men are six times more likely to die by suicide than their married counterparts.
Fortunately, Andy was one of the lucky ones. He may have walked away without any money, but he was able to see his children. He also met and fell in love with a beautiful woman and was able to become a caring stepfather to her two children.
Andy also discovered his true calling which is ministry – to build God’s church right here in the Whitsundays. Since December last year Andy has been the Pastor at Whitsundays Baptist Church, where his candid and uplifting sermons have grown the congregation.
His journey, however, could have ended very differently.
“I honestly believe after losing everything that without my faith in Jesus I would have been another suicide statistic,” shared Andy.
“After what happened I had every reason to hate but hate but hate locks you in a prison of bitterness. The sun will rise again - hang in there and don’t give up, because I am testament to how life does get better.”
By Sharon Ashman
You can’t talk to an angry brain.
Have you ever tried reasoning with a child in the middle of a meltdown? It doesn’t work – and here’s why.
When your child is yelling, hitting, throwing things, or just completely losing it, they’re not being “naughty” – they’re in their Red Brain. This is the reactive, survival part of the brain – I call it the T-Rex Zone. It’s all fight, flight, or freeze – and it takes over when kids feel overwhelmed, unsafe, or out of control.
In Red Brain mode, logic goes out the window. This is not the time for consequences or deep conversations. It’s the time for calm, connection, and safety. Once your child feels regulated again, then their “thinking brain” can come back online.
As a child counsellor, I work with kids (and their parents!) to understand these brain states – and to build real strategies for calming down, recognising triggers, and shifting out of Red Brain faster.
If your home is full of yelling, big reactions, or you're walking on eggshells – you are not alone.
Let’s help your child tame their T-Rex and rediscover their calm.
Call 0418708214 to book a supportive counselling session or explore our webpage personaltransitions.com.au
Next fortnight : What’s going on when your child suddenly shuts down or bursts into tears?
Meet the Blue Brain.
Sharon Ashman
CMHN MPAS GD Psych
Forty years ago, on July 24, 1985, Kelsey Creek joined the age of modern telecommunications.
Kelsey Creek was the last country exchange functioning in the Mackay District. While the transformation to a new automatic exchange provided subscribers with up-to-date phones and services, many missed the personal service provided by Marie Fraser, the operator of this manual exchange at the time. Marie had tended that country hook up from 1968 – 1985 running the service from the bottom floor of the family’s two-storey farmhouse after taking over from the Trotter family.
Initially, the exchange operated part-time from 8am – 1pm and from 2pm – 10pm which gave the Fraser family with their four children some free time. There were times during floods and bushfires when Marie and husband, Phil, manned the phone all night to connect emergency calls.
As the population grew, the exchange was made a 24 hour service to keep up with the calls in and out of Dittmer Gold Mine. This effectively meant that unless Marie could find someone to relieve her, she was tied to the job 24 hours a day; 7 days a week.
When the Frasers first manned the exchange, they had 485 calls in 28 days. In May 1983, that number had increased to 2293 calls for the same period. But all the family knew how to operate the exchange if need be. Only once did Marie have to shut down and that was when all the children were at school and Phil was out on the farm – and Marie had tonsilitis and could not speak.
In her time as operator, Marie became confidante, co-ordinator, advertiser, and information service to the small close-knit Kelsey Creek community. She was used as a counsellor for the lonely; a co-ordinator for fires and floods and an advertiser for local community groups. If Marie received a call from one of the farms, they would often simply say, “We’ve got a fire!” and hang up so Marie would ring around neighbours to assist - all part of the service.
It was not unusual for a casual caller asking for mates by Christian name only such as, “Could ya get Charlie or Joe?’ Mmmm which Charlie or Joe? If a caller asked for a number or a particular person, Marie was able to tell them they had gone to town because she had seen the car drive past. Then there were requests for function dates, recipes and knitting patterns; even appeals such as how to catch a porcupine!
With the updating of the Kelsey exchange, the era of personal telephone service came to an end. Gone was the convenience of contacting the exchange for information (on any subject; not just relating to phone calls) and leaving messages to be passed on to others.
In place of the old farmhouse-cum-telephone exchange was a series of squat white boxes housing the technology which brought Kelsey Creek to the rest of the world. While residents were then able to ring direct anywhere, at any time, not all were totally happy with the change and admitted they would miss Marie’s familiar, friendly and calming voice at the end of the line.
At Marie’s suggestion, the old manual exchange was kept in the shire and is on display at the Proserpine Museum. Why not pop in and check out this wonderful reminder of the past.
Story and photo courtesy of Proserpine Historical Museum. Information also sourced from the “Proserpine Guardian”.
It was another action-packed week on the green for Wangaratta Bowls Club, with strong turnouts across all competitions.
Monday’s triples winners were Eileen Dunn, John F., and Geof Col, who defeated Grant Ingh, Bob Lindsay, and Leon Fox. Runners-up were Dave Richard, Bob Agg, and Denis Madeley, who overcame Buff Graham and Kennedy. The jackpot remained unclaimed.
On Tuesday, the club hosted a full green for President Margaret’s Day, proudly sponsored by Tropical Beach Caravan Park. The morning’s bowls were followed by lunch and a cent sale. Special guests included North Queensland President Lyn and three visiting ladies from Townsville, along with players from Airlie Beach, Ayr, Brandon, and Thuringowa. Afternoon winners were Allan Gillies, Lyn Sara, and Robyn Stitt, defeating Gail Simms, Beryl Cornford, and Heather Jorgensen. Second place went to Carol Bellingham, Sandra Stitson, Helen, and Pam Power, while third place was claimed by June Paynting, Louise S./Collins, and Fely Duncan. The jackpot again didn’t go off.
Fun Friday winners were Owen, Heather, and Allan, who beat Mary, Judy, and Julie. Runners-up were Carole, Ed, and Grant, defeating Barbara, Tom, and Graham. The evening was capped off with a sausage sizzle and barefoot bowls.
Sunday’s full-green afternoon, sponsored by Life Members Pat and Neil Tracey, featured another great turnout. Pat’s famous soup was enjoyed after play. Winners were Sue Symmons, Shirley Jones, Daryl McStravick, and John Hallas, defeating D. Hallas, J. McStravick, B. Thompson, and Jim Quod. Runners-up were Carole Bellingham, Jan Harvey, Ron Bosma, and Joe Paynting, who beat Karen, Pam, Alan Gillies, and Dave Madden.
The jackpot remained elusive.
Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren
Pat Tracey, Shirley Jones, Sue Symmons, John Hallas, Daryl Mc Stravik, and Neil Tracey. Photo supplied
Mackay is ready to bat above and beyond this August, as the Great Barrier Reef Arena steps up to host men’s international cricket for the very first time. This landmark event, featuring top-tier teams like Australia and South Africa, promises to ignite the city’s passion for the sport while showcasing the region’s vibrant spirit.
To celebrate, the Discover Mackay Cricket Scorecard Challenge invites locals and visitors alike to explore the stunning sights and hidden gems of the region through a fun, interactive adventure. With exciting prizes on offer and a full calendar of thrilling matches, including women’s and men’s contests.
Mackay is ready to shine on the international sporting stage, creating unforgettable memories and economic boosts, all while inviting everyone to step up to the crease and join in the excitement.
Mackay is gearing up for a historic August as the Great Barrier Reef Arena hosts its first men’s international cricket matches, celebrating the sport and the region with an exciting community challenge and a lineup of thrilling games. Photo credit: Hannah Mcnamara
Mackay is ready to hit cricket for six this August, with international matches, family fun, and a brand-new way to explore our beautiful backyard.
For the first time, the Great Barrier Reef Arena will host men’s international cricket, and Mackay Regional Council is marking the milestone with the Discover Mackay Cricket Scorecard Challenge in an adventure that combines sport, sightseeing, and more than $5000 in prizes.
The challenge runs from August 7 to 31, encouraging locals and visitors to “step up to the crease” and rack up runs by completing activities across the region. Whether you’re going solo or teaming up with family and friends, every challenge completed adds to your score.
Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson officially launched the program at Fifth Lane, calling it a perfect match for the city’s biggest-ever month of cricket.
“It’s the biggest month for cricket in Mackay we’ve ever seen. We’ve got T20s and ODIs, including Australia playing South Africa, all at the Great Barrier Reef Arena. I think this will be one of the most celebrated months for cricket ever.”
On the scorecard challenge itself, the Mayor said, “Pick up one of these scorecards from the council website, the Arena, Southern Cross Austereo, or any council service centre, and get as many runs as you can by completing challenges. There’s about $5,000 in prize money to be won.
“It’s a fantastic way to celebrate cricket here in Mackay this August.”
Adrian Young, CEO of Harrup Park and General Manager of the Great Barrier Reef Arena, said the scale of events this month was unprecedented.
“It’s the biggest month of cricket we’ve ever held in the region and the first time we’ve hosted men’s international games at the Great Barrier Reef Arena.
“We’ve got three contests with Australia A women taking on India A women in T20s. Then at the end of the month, the Australian men’s team will play South Africa in ODIs on August 22 and 24.”
He added that tickets were designed to make it easy for families to get involved.
“Tickets are just $20 for adults and $5 for kids… it’s going to be a great day out.
“Get your cricket scorecard, see the sights around Mackay, and enjoy the cricket.”
The buzz is also being felt by the next generation of players.
Eleven-year-old twins Spencer and Scarlett Faulkner are among the youngest fans ready to soak up the action.
Spencer said, “I’ve been playing cricket since I was four and it’s unbelievable to see Australia’s men’s team come to take on South Africa at the Great Barrier Reef Arena.”
Scarlett is looking forward to the Australia vs India T20 clash.
“I’m very excited for the Australia versus India T20 cricket game at the Great Barrier Reef Arena. I even got to see Alyssa Healy last night at the ten years of celebrating Pioneer Valley Girls Cricket.”
Her advice to other girls thinking about picking up a bat, is simply, “Just get in there.”
With prizes including Cricket Australia merch packs, beach towels, mini bats, and jigsaw puzzles, there’s plenty of incentive to explore.
Participants can download a scorecard at www.mackay.qld.gov.au/scorecard or collect one from the Great Barrier Reef Arena, Southern Cross Austereo, any council service centre, or local library.
Mackay’s biggest cricket month kicks off with international games and a Discover Mackay Scorecard Challenge offering $5,000+ in prizes. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Hi everyone,
What a week it’s been!
Sport is thriving across our region – from the recent Wanderers footy carnival featured on page 41, to the excitement building as the Great Barrier Reef Arena prepares to host men’s international cricket for the first time later this month, which you can read all about on page 38.
On a more personal note, I want to take a moment to encourage you to check in – with yourself and those around you.
Last week, I attended the official launch of the Universal Aftercare program at Mackay Base Hospital, which supports people on the road to recovery after a suicide attempt.
It’s easy to get caught up in the busyness of life, but it’s vital to pause and reach out to your mates – because tomorrow is never promised.
As a journalist, I have the privilege of sharing stories about inspiring locals and meeting wonderful people. Yet, I also write about those lost to tragic circumstances. Though I may not have known them personally, my heart aches for the families and friends left behind.
This week we are also mourning the loss of another young man’s life who tragically passed away in a traffic accident, sometimes life feels so unfair.
Tomorrow truly isn’t promised. So please, appreciate the loved ones around you, check in on your friends, offer support, and pray for those grieving or struggling in any way you can.
Romans 12:10 reminds us: “Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honouring each other.”
Because love conquers all.
Hannah
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