The 2024 state elections are heating up with the formal announcement of all candidates who are in for the running. After four years of a Labour-run state led by Premier Steven Miles, the political landscape is wide open as the election approaches on October 26, 2024.
All eight regional candidates are preparing their election campaigns in the lead up to the big day. Each candidate is working hard to connect with North Queenslanders, hoping to secure their votes and represent the region’s interests.
This election cycle features a mix of old and new faces, adding a dynamic element to the 2024 race.

Missing: Peter Atchison from the Family First Party candidate for Whitsunday and Amanda Nickson from the Family First Party candidate for Burdekin. No images could be found at this time.

Who’s Got Your Vote?

With the looming state elections, it's important to identify your voting district and familiarise yourself with the local candidates running for office.
In the Whitsundays region, voters can choose from four candidates: Amanda Camm MP (LNP), Bauke Hovinga (Labor), Julie Hall (One Nation), and Peter Atchison (FFP). If you reside in Airlie Beach, Cannonvale, or Proserpine, these are the individuals on your ballot.
For the Burdekin region, the candidates are Dale Last (LNP), Anne Baker (Labor), Andrew Elborne (One Nation), and Amanda Nickson (FFP). Residents of Bowen and Collinsville will have the opportunity to vote for these candidates.
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Whitsunday Candidates
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Amanda Camm (LNP)
Amanda Camm, current Member for Whitsundays, is well-known in the region. She has spent the last four years in opposition after claiming her first term in October 2020. Before entering Queensland Parliament, Amanda served as a Councillor and Deputy Mayor of Mackay.
A long-term Whitsundays resident, she is running for election with a clear focus on driving positive community change, improving the economy, and connecting community members.
During her term, Amanda claims she has contributed to the region’s growth and prosperity through her diverse experience in government, economic and social development, tourism, mining services, and primary production.
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Bauke Hovinga (Labor)
Bauke Hovinga, a doctor in Mackay is up for election for the Labor party. Bauke understands first hand the importance of access to healthcare. Hearing of the Miles Labor Governments ambitious plan to deliver healthcare to the local community, made him hold his hand up high as a Labor candidate.
Bauke loves living in the Whitsunday region and believes maintaining community connections is vital to see the community thrive. He also advocates for upholding cost of living relief alongside encouraging social and affordable housing.
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Julie Hall (One Nation)
Former Mayor of the Whitsunday Regional Council and a candidate against Amanda Camm in the last state election, Julie Hall is committed to ensuring that Whitsunday residents have a strong voice in the governmental decisions impacting their lives and community.
Julie is passionate about protecting the natural environment and Great Barrier Reef but advocates for a balanced and realistic approach. Julie also stresses the need to address local issues, including, roads, housing, youth crime, and state government cost shifting to local government, which pressures ratepayers.

Burdekin Candidates
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Dale Last
Born and raised in regional Queensland and with a background in the sugar and cattle industries, Dale Last has a big love for regional areas.
After over 30 years as a Police Officer, Dale was elected to the Townsville City Council in 2008 where he also served as Deputy Mayor.
He is now the current Member for Burdekin.
Dale is focused on delivering for the Burdekin electorate and regional Queensland, he claims his first-hand experience in law enforcement and emergency management will help him tackle community issues.

Anne Baker
Having called Burdekin home for 38 years, Anne Baker is a dedicated community champion with a deep understanding of the area and its residents' needs.
With 17 years of passionate service in local government—12 of which she spent as Mayor for the Isaac region—Anne is eager to once again advocate for local working families, businesses, agriculture, mining, construction, and regional communities.
Anne is also family focused in her ideologies, having her own family and knowing the challenges and rewards of raising a family in regional Queensland.

Andrew Elborne
Andrew Elborne, was born in Brisbane and raised in a Catholic home and attended a Catholic school until grade 10 when he left to pursue a trade as an electrician.
Andrew has worked on various significant projects, including Parliament House in Canberra, Ergon and Energex supply authority work, and at the Tarong Power Station.  
Andrew states that he is determined to bring real-world experience and simple, transparent solutions to the table, aiming to simplify legislation and make it more accessible. He is committed to improving infrastructure, supporting trades, and enhancing community services in Burdekin.

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Hi Everyone,

Have you ever shared a moment with others and felt an almost palpable energy radiate?

I experienced this feeling twice this week, on two very different occasions.

The first was when I was at my Saturday morning Body Combat class; we were about two-thirds of the way through and I was doing my two-hundredth knee kick when the moment struck me.

The music was punchy, the stamina was waning and all of a sudden, I felt this almost euphoric energy wash over, one that I felt sure was shared with all the other panting people in the room.

An invigorated enlightenment.

The second time I experienced this was when I attended a Sunday morning service at the local Baptist Church with my mum who is visiting from the UK for three months.

Despite living what I consider ‘a life of Christian values’, I have to confess I only go to church when it is to accompany my lovely mum.

My favourite part is always at the beginning when the little church band belts out the hymns.

Listening to the angelic voice of the singer, watching the congregation begin to sway to the rhythmic sounds - in that moment I felt the whole room connect.

I watched as hands rose to ‘praise the Lord’ and the energy of the room lifted up in shared appreciation.

Both occasions, despite being very different, showed a similar experience, a collective energy that makes us all feel more alive.

I think this connection is the lifeblood of being human and it’s small communities like ours where we get to feel it most.

Where and when have you felt this in your own life?

Was it when you were playing a game of footy, dancing at a festival or perhaps watching a beautiful sunset with strangers on a beach?

Rach

Quote of the Week: “The older I get, the less I know” (Swami Chetanananda)

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Police have charged a 29-year-old Bowen man following a fatal hit-and-run traffic crash that happened in Bowen in July.
Emergency crews were called to the intersection of Bootooloo Road and Wheelers Lane on Thursday, July 25, after a cyclist was located on the roadway by a passing motorist at 4.42am.
The male cyclist, a 69-year-old Bowen man, was declared deceased at the scene.
The cyclist was struck by a vehicle, which had failed to remain at the scene.
Following extensive investigations, the driver has now been charged.
Police will allege the 29-year-old Bowen man was the driver of the vehicle that struck the cyclist.
He has been charged with one count of dangerous operation of a vehicle causing death or grievous bodily harm and left the scene of incident without obtaining help.
He is due to appear before Bowen Magistrates Court on October 1.

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For the past 20 years Zonta Club of the Whitsundays have offered a substantial annual scholarship to one lucky student from one of the local high-schools.

This year the generous scholarship has been named the PJ Halter scholarship in memory of the club’s beloved and very hardworking member who sadly passed in 2022.

The scholarship embodies the club's commitment to supporting women who, due to various life circumstances, may not have had the chance for further education earlier in their lives.
The PJ Halter Scholarship is designed to provide financial assistance and educational opportunities to women in the community, empowering them to pursue their academic and professional goals.
The scholarship will be provided to a deserving student who, because of limited financial means or distance, would otherwise struggle to access the course of their choice.
In addition to the PJ Halter Scholarship, Zonta is introducing the Senior Bursary which is designed to support women who may have missed educational opportunities earlier in life. Zonta Whitsundays has established this scholarship to empower a woman in our community with the chance for further education and personal growth.
Alongside the scholarships, Zonta is also providing bursaries to Proserpine State High School, St Catherine’s Catholic College, and Cannonvale State Primary School. These bursaries are chosen by the school and presented at graduation evening each year.

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Zonta Club of the Whitsundays offer students a scholarship each year. Photo source: Facebook

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The tragic death toll in our region has sadly risen again this week following a road accident on Sunday evening that claimed the life of a 22-year-old woman.

On Sunday 15 September at 5pm a 61-year-old Bowen man was travelling in a silver Rodeo North on the Bruce Highway, and in the initial police investigation, it appears to have veered onto the wrong side of the road.

The silver Rodeo collided head on with a black BMW, driven by a 22-year-old female who tragically lost her life as a result to the traffic crash.

The 61-year-old male is in critical condition at Mackay Based Hospital.

It is believed the female was traveling from Townsville to her residence in Mackay, and the male was returning to Bowen from the Nebo area.

The Queensland Police forensic crash unit conducted an investigation on-scene but now need to conduct follow up investigations before a conclusion is drawn.

Whilst the initial investigation took place, the Bruce Highway was closed and emergency services put a diversion in place with assistance from the Whitsunday Regional Council.

So far this year there have been 13 fatalities on the road in the Mackay and Whitsunday region, resulting in 17 people losing their lives.

Inspector Glenn Cameron said, “It is tragic circumstances and that’s why we are imploring with every member of the public, drive to the conditions, drive to your own conditions, be safe on the road we want to see people get to their destination safely.”

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By Paul Gellatly

The election of the 2024-25 committee for Bowen Chamber of Commerce was backed by presentations highlighting the importance of the Abbot Point coal and industry facility to the town.

An audience of around 40 people attended the chamber's September 11 meeting at the Larrikin Hotel to hear the results of the election of office bearers, for which vacancies closed on September 2.

Although he jested that he thought his existing term would be his last, popular Larrikin Hotel publican and chamber chairman Bruce Hedditch was re-elected to the role he has held continuously since 2014.

"You can't be doing it forever," Mr Hedditch said. "I think it's getting near the time when I should be handing it on.

"But I think I've done my job, giving to the community of Bowen."

Mr Hedditch said the major impact for the future of Bowen rested with Abbot Point and that the chamber must understand the opportunities for this port and the benefits that will accrue for Bowen.

Under Mr Hedditch’s leadership, the chamber has made a significant contribution to the township of Bowen and the community that live and work in it. Although the Chamber of Commerce dates back to the 1920s, it was under Mr Hedditch that it was renamed Bowen Chamber of Commerce Inc. in 2017.

Two vice presidents were elected to serve with Mr Hedditch. They are Alan Bryson, from Harbourside Homestay, and Tony Bale, a Bowen consultant who has led the charge for the redevelopment of Bowen's jetty.

Joanne Shepherd, a Bowen Rail employee and daughter of a former chairman of Regional Development Australia, was elected for the first time as secretary, while Grace Graewe, another first-timer who works at the town's Commonwealth Bank, was elected treasurer.

Mr Hedditch hailed the depth of talent in the new committee, which he said represented "a good cross section of the community", hitting a new record with seven appointed.

They are Mark Steen, a long-time member of the chamber; Lukas Adams from Whitsunday Web, Alexander Pyke, a physiotherapist from Bowen Physio; Matt Bowkett from Engage Marine, Claire Mitchell Must, from Arabon Seafoods; John Barnes; and Doug Eldred from Whole Hog BBQ.

The results were announced at the meeting by Steve Darwen, chairman for election of the board.

Following the announcement of the new committee, three speakers gave addresses on the topic 'Abbot Point - The Most Northerly Deepwater Coal Port of Australia and the Future Opportunities'.

Brendan Lane, general manager of Bowen Rail Company, spoke of the growth of the rail company's operations from its start-up staff of seven, to its present complement of more than 200 employees, 170 of whom are based in Bowen.

Rob Cocco, CEO of Regional Development Australia, said that Abbot Point and Bowen were an ideal location for development.

Alan Brown, general manager port operations at Abbot Point, spoke of the facility as "a driving force for Bowen", having shipped nearly 35 million tonnes of coal in 2023-24 in 360 shipments, to 20 countries.

Mr Hedditch said that with 14,000ha of state government land being available around the Abbot Point area, there was a wealth of potential for development of new industries that would benefit Bowen and the wider region.

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New committee member Mark Steen, secretary Joanne Shepherd and re-elected chairman Bruce Hedditch. Photo credit: Paul Gellatly

Chairman for election of the board, Steve Darwen (right) with Abbot Point port operations GM  Alan Brown

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A local girl from Proserpine, Matilda Braney, sparkled at Australia’s Royalty pageant (ARP) National Finals that were held in Melbourne earlier this month.

Not only has Matilda, obtained numerous beauty titles for her appearance in the ARP, she also has done incredible work in the local community to raise funds for Starlight Children's Foundation.

Matilda, alongside her aunty, raised funds for the foundation by selling chocolate in the mines. All proceeds from their sales went directly to the foundation.

Brooke Lee, Leader of the Etiquette and Runway workshop in Melbourne at the Australia’s Royalty Pageant National Finals stated that it was such a “Joy meeting all the finalists, and witnessing their confidence on stage,” which she commented was “nothing short of inspiring.”

“Every one of them should be incredibly proud,” Brooke added.

Matilda was awarded the titles, Miss Junior of Australia (2nd runner up), Australia’s Popularity Choice, Charity Queen for the Starlight Children’s Make a Wish Foundation and Best in Social Media.

Matilda enthused that she was proud of her achievements at the pageant especially considering it was her first ever pageant:

“I really enjoyed getting to know everyone, because there were so many different people there.”

“It was really great to hear everyone's unique stories, and everyone was really supportive.”

Fellow Whitsunday resident, Madison Richardson from Bowen also participated in Australia’s Royalty pageant (ARP) National Finals.

She was awarded Miss of Australia 1st Runner Up, My Sparkly Life Runner Up, Australia’s Print Model Runner Up, Australia’s Best Dress/Style and Australia’s Popularity Runner Up.

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Matilda proud to have received her brand-new titles
The Girls celebrating their achievements at ARP
A lovely supportive atmosphere from the girls at ARP

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It was announced this week that award-winning viral sensation, Jude York will be joining 7-time ARIA award winner Wendy Matthews at the upcoming Whitsundays Songwriters Festival which is due to take place next month.

Jude’s song ‘Monaco’ is climbing the international charts with a staggering million streams in its first week and Whitsundays Songwriters Festival organisers say they are thrilled to welcome him to the line-up.

“Jude’s clarity of his artistic direction will serve as an inspiration to local songwriters attending our workshop and having witnessed his Queensland Music Awards performance live earlier this year, we know Whitsundays audiences are in for a magical experience when he takes the stage at our Concert and Conversation event,” said festival co-founders Karen Jacobsen and Francesca de Valence.

Jude will join the professional faculty as part of the Emerging Songwriter Workshop on Saturday, October 12, mentoring aspiring songwriters to develop their works.

He will also perform alongside other outstanding artists in a Concert & Conversation event at Whitsunday Sailing Club that evening.

Growing up rurally with an opera-singer mother and jingle-writer father, it seemed inevitable Jude York would create his own musical world.

In 2022, Jude debuted with a unique cult-favourite performance in Australia’s national round for Eurovision, before releasing viral hits, ‘Mr Porcelain’ and ‘Cashew.’

With breathtaking vulnerability, Jude quickly garnered a fanbase of like-minded misfits, a community solidified by seeing him live on tour throughout Europe supporting Dean Lewis and later on his own headline tour of Australia.

The Songwriter Festival is in its third year and provides a brilliant opportunity for local songwriters to learn from professionals.

Limited places are available for this one-day workshop and for more information and to apply for the workshop, head to whitsundaysartsfestival.org

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WHAT: Whitsundays Songwriters Festival
WHEN: 10-15 October
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Award-winning viral sensation, Jude York will be joining the Whitsundays Songwriters Festival this year. Photo supplied

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In 2024, if your business isn’t on social media yet, you’re potentially missing out on connecting with a lot of possible customers. With almost 80% of Australians active on social media, it’s a great way to quickly and easily connect with your audience and show off what you’re offering.  

It might feel a bit daunting to get started, but don’t worry—here are some great free tools to help you get started, or to help you elevate what you’re currently doing: 

   • Instagram and Facebook: Must-haves for getting your business seen and interacting with customers.  
   • TikTok: A fun platform for sharing short, creative videos that can boost your visibility.  
   • Canva: Perfect for making eye-catching graphics and posts without needing a design degree.  
   • Later: Helps you schedule your posts, so you don’t have to stress about timing.  
   • CapCut: Simple video editor for creating engaging videos to share. 

Also, keep an eye on your tagged photos on Instagram. Your customers might be posting some amazing content of your business or our beautiful region—these can be great to share on your own page. 

Social media is a game-changer in the Tourism Industry, it allows you to easily share what your business offers through images, video and short pieces of text, keeping your target audience eager to learn more.

If you need more help or have questions, feel free to reach out to Zana at rosanagh.gallivan@tourismwhitsundays.com.au.  

Contributed by Rosanagh Gallivan, Public Relations & Social Media Executive, Tourism Whitsundays  

Photo supplied

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For this weeks adventure, Jade and Paige explored one of the local Whitsunday land-based wonders by joining Whitsunday Segway Tours for an unforgettable tour.

Expertly guided safely and thoroughly by host, Zak, the mood transitioned quickly from slightly nervous too eager as they stepped on the Segway and adjusted to synchronize with the hi-tech machine. Jade said she was surprised at how quickly she became comfortably at ease with the Segway.

Once the journey began, the 9-kilometre round trip was an absolute feast for the senses. Gliding past towering trees, wildlife and crystal-clear streams, Jade described how she was amazed by how effortlessly the Segway allowed her to take in the vibrant surroundings. 

With an obvious passion and commitment to guide, Zac expertly lead Jade and Paige through the Whitsunday Great Walk, sharing fascinating insights about the local flora and fauna and enriching the ride with his local knowledge and stories.

The halfway moment was nestled amongst the stream at Impulse Creek. Right in the forest's heart, the creek's calm waters provided a perfect spot for a refreshing morning tea, and homemade baked goods replenished energy perfectly. Sitting by the water, Jade felt a sense of peace in the tranquillity and beauty of the local rainforest. 

Jade described how this tour is more than just a ride—it's a chance to connect with nature and learn about its wonders. She highly recommends it for an unforgettable land-based Whitsunday adventure.

Contributed by Jade Yvonne, Business Development Executive, Tourism Whitsundays

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Jade and Paige enjoying their adventure, Photo supplied

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The inaugural Whitsunday Jobs Fair will be held next month and organisers are looking forward to bringing together job seekers and businesses from across the Whitsundays.

Hosted at the Proserpine State High School, this event will bridge the gap between employers and prospective employees, offering a unique platform for recruitment, networking, and career development.

With the job market evolving rapidly, the Whitsunday Jobs Fair offers job seekers a valuable opportunity to explore a wide range of career possibilities and connect directly with employers and service providers ready to hire.

Whether you are a school leaver, new, or returning to, the job market, seasoned professional, or someone looking to switch careers, the Jobs Fair promises something for everyone.

Employers – book your spot today!
For employers with genuine job opportunities, please contact Scott McPherson on mobile 0438 860 931 and EBB@idealplacements.com.au to secure your spot today.

Can’t make it but will have jobs available? Contact Scott for more information on how you can promote your vacancies at the event.

The inaugural Whitsunday Job Fair is being hosted by the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry, IDEAL Placements, Link and Launch, and the Proserpine State High School.

Event highlights:

   • Meet Whitsunday employers: A number of employers from diverse industries will be present, offering positions ranging from entry-level to specialist roles.
   • On-site interviews: Some employers might conduct on-the-spot interviews, so come prepared with your resume, positive job ready attitude, and dressed to impress!
   • Networking opportunities: Engage with local business leaders, human resource professionals, and recruiters to expand your understanding of current job roles and build your network.

What: Whitsundays Jobs Fair
When:  1:00pm-3:30pm Monday 14 October 2024
Where: Proserpine State High School
Admission: Free for all job seekers and employers

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The Council has announced that repair works on the Wilsons Beach Swimming Enclosure will commence on 23rd September, with completion estimated for late November 2024.
The repair work at Wilson Beach has been guided by feedback from concerned community members about the area’s future, following the damage caused by Cyclone Debbie in March 2017, which left the enclosure damaged and non-functional.
The repair works, therefore, will enhance safety and once again provide a fantastic swimming spot for the Conway and Wilsons Beach communities.
Mayor Ry Collins and Councillor John Collins expressed their enthusiasm for the project:
“We are excited to announce the commencement of the repair works on the Wilson Beach swimming enclosure,” Mayor Ry Collins said.
Councillor John Collins shared his excitement as well:
“To say I’m excited is an understatement—this is up there with the Proserpine Water Park,” Councillor John Collins added. “It’s truly sensational.”
Mobilisation works will commence from Monday 16th September with a small compound set-up in the boat ramp carpark and a safety barrier (flagging) will be set up around the site and construction will commence shortly after this.

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The damaged swimming enclosure at Wilsons Beach
Wilsons Beach

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Greater Whitsunday Vet Services has been operating as a mobile clinic since 2020 and from their current Bowen clinic since 2021, with the new location in Proserpine expected to open soon.

The mobile service ensures everybody from, Glenden to Collinsville, Proserpine, Cannonvale, Bloomsbury, and Calen, can have access to a qualified vet.

After successfully operating a clinic in Bowen for three years, owner Jason Mansfield, saw increased demand in the Proserpine and Cannonvale area.

In June this year he purchased 52 Main Street in Proserpine and plans to open a newly renovated clinic this year.

Practice Manager Georgia Bowser said she is excited for the opening of the new clinic in Proserpine, but the building must undergo a complete renovation first.

“Basically everything has to be done, internal walls, adding new sinks, plumbing, adding power points - there’s a lot to do!” said Georgia.

The building at 52 Main Street used to be the historic Commonwealth bank building and ocal trades people are currently in the building doing a full fit out, after the historic commonwealth bank building was completely gutted to make way for the new look clinic.

Owner Jason Mansfield said Greater Whitsunday Vet Services do not limit themselves to only treating small animals, they treat large animals too, they even have client who owns a camel!

“We are a mixed practice veterinary clinic offering advice and services to all animals great and small,” said Jason.

“We have a high emphasis on patient care and client experience. We are a little bit different to the normal vet, as we continue to strive and innovate the industry with fresh ideas and new approaches to patient care.

“We resonate well with people who have a love for wanting the best for their animals.

“For our equine clients we are always on the lookout to invest in new technology and skills that will help us reach conclusions faster and on the move.

“This is the same for our cattle producers who are already innovative people and constantly striving to look after their animals and better their herd performance year on year.”

Greater Whitsunday Vet Services are expanding and opening new doors in Proserpine soon. Photo supplied

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In 1937, Ivan A Hughes wrote a book entitled “In the Wake of the ‘Cheerio’: The Narrative of a Memorable Cruise in Great Barrier Reef Waters” During a fourteen-day cruise on the “Cheerio” between Bowen and Mackay, Hughes and a group of tourists from Sydney visited most islands of the Whitsunday and Cumberland Groups and enjoyed trips to the outer Barrier Reef. The account of their experiences, of the beauty of the area, and the references to relics of early history is both comprehensive and entertaining.
 
A particularly memorable account is Hughes’s vivid description of the track between Cannon Valley (the author was referring to what is now known as Cannonvale) and Proserpine, which the tourists traversed on their first mainland stop. Hughes described how the twenty excited travellers were “full of pleasure at the novelty of the coming jaunt in an open motor truck” for the fourteen-mile trip on the main railway line, and the reaction of locals to their arrival.
 
“We went bouncing and bumping hilariously along the narrow tortuous track. Careering down steep inclines, we slowed up at the creek beds to drop into low gear in time to lurch and roll through the boulder strewn shallows and struggle up the opposite rises. The names Whiskey and Brandy (were) proudly borne by two of the five little waterways we negotiated.”  At Myrtle Creek “stretches of lily pad covered the water and the banks drooped tropic vines.”
 
“Farm succeeded farm in monotonous succession, until we came to wonder how so much sugar cane could be used.” Hughes told how the crew “shamelessly entered a canefield (to) secure cane stalks. All and sundry indulged in the sweet pastime of chewing sugar cane.”
 
“Gazes were turned aloft to scan the branches of each of the tall grey gums … Native Bears had been promised as a special attraction and at last someone … discovered one …”
 
Their arrival in Proserpine – “The very orderly and quiet inhabitants of this little north Queensland town were interested and slightly scandalised at our advent.” Many of the travellers “sported shorts and shirts and displayed limbs already burned a deep shade of tan. There were hats limp and water-stained, and ornamented with fresh garlands of greenery gathered along the way.”
 
“The reader can well imagine the … anticipation of a party of city dwellers who have been denied the luxury of shops for a whole week. Thus, the business people did a roaring trade in refreshments, photo materials, chocolates, fruit, cigarettes, balloons, and beauty aids.”
 
The author portrayed scenes of “trailing children … who accompanied them from shop to shop. One traveller “arranged a scramble amongst the children coming out of school by getting a great crowd together and throwing a couple of handfuls of pennies into the air. With a shouted invitation of “come on, children, … free ice creams for everyone this afternoon, (soon) 70 – 80 little heads were counted in from the milling crowd packed around the door.” More antics followed and “the unusual treat for the children had a fitting ending with one final ‘all in’ scramble for dozens of pennies … tossed into the air in the middle of the street.”

There is much more to this unforgettable account including a visit to the sugar mill, dinner in a local restaurant and an eventful trip back to the beach. But that’s for another time.
 
Postscript: Perhaps some of our readers would be able to enlighten as to where Whiskey Creek may have been.
 
Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum.

Photo caption: The Cheerio

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Council held their latest Citizenship Ceremony at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on Tuesday, and I swore in 38 new Australian citizens from 12 different countries.
 
These citizenship ceremonies are always highly emotional occasions as family and friends also attend to witness what is a huge day for every new Australian citizen officially inducted. 
 
Tuesday was also National Citizenship Day, and this year was the 75th anniversary of the day which celebrates a momentous occasion that reminds us of the values and responsibilities that come with being part of the Australian community.
 
For the Whitsundays, this day is especially important, as it reflects the heart of what makes our region so vibrant—our people.
 
In the Whitsundays, we are fortunate to live in one of the most beautiful parts of the world, surrounded by natural wonders and a diverse community. 
 
From Bowen to Proserpine, Airlie Beach to Collinsville, our towns are enriched by the contributions of those who have chosen to call this region home.
 
National Citizenship Day is not only a celebration of new citizens joining our country, but it is also a recognition of the ongoing commitment each of us makes to create a strong, inclusive, and unified community.
 
Citizenship is more than just a formal process—it’s a symbol of belonging. It’s about embracing the Australian spirit of mateship, equality, and respect.
 
Here in the wonderful Whitsundays, we see these values in action every day, whether it’s through volunteering, supporting local businesses, or simply looking out for one another. Our sense of community is what defines us, and it’s something we should be incredibly proud of.
 
As we reflect on 75 years of citizenship ceremonies, we also look to the future. The continued growth and diversity of the Whitsundays will only enhance our community, bringing new ideas, cultures, and perspectives that make our region an even better place to live, work, and visit.
 
To our new citizens who have made the choice to join our great country, I extend my heartfelt congratulations. You are now part of a proud legacy, and your contributions will help shape the future of both Australia and our region.
 
I look forward to seeing the positive impact our new citizens will have on our Whitsunday community in the years to come.

Contributed with thanks to Mayor Ry Collins.

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Mayor Ry Collins at the Citizenship Ceremony on Tuesday. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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