Step into Flavours of Vietnam, where Mackay locals are treated to a true taste of Vietnam. Known for their “All Natural, All Fresh” philosophy, this bustling restaurant serves up vibrant dishes that celebrate the heart and soul of Vietnamese cuisine and culture. Every bite is a journey into a world of bold flavours, fresh ingredients, and irresistible textures. Whether you're a seasoned fan of Vietnamese food or looking to try something new, Flavours of Vietnam promises a dining experience that's as exciting as it is delicious.

Two must-try dishes that showcase their commitment to freshness and flavour are the Crispy Pancake (Banh Xeo) and Vietnamese Pork Hock.

Crispy Pancake - Banh Xeo
The Banh Xeo offers a delightful sensory experience. Made from rice flour, coconut milk, and a touch of turmeric. This golden, crispy pancake crackles with every bite. Inside, it’s packed with crunchy bean shoots, creating a perfect contrast to the delicate pancake exterior. Pair it with the tangy dipping sauce on the side, and you have a dish that’s light, fresh, and bursting with flavour. The combination of crispiness and freshness makes it a true standout for anyone seeking a taste of Vietnam's vibrant street food scene.

Vietnamese Pork Hock
Looking for something a little more indulgent? The Vietnamese Pork Hock is the answer. This dish is the ultimate combination of tender, fall-apart pork and perfectly crisp skin. Slow-cooked to perfection, the pork hock practically melts in your mouth while delivering that irresistible crunch from the crispy skin. Accompanied by fragrant steamed rice, a fresh salad, and a house-made dipping sauce that’s both savoury and sweet, this dish is comfort food with a Vietnamese twist. It’s hearty, satisfying, and packed with flavour—a true celebration of traditional home cooking.

At Flavours of Vietnam, these dishes offer more than just a meal—they’re an invitation to experience the authentic tastes and vibrant culture of Vietnam, right in the heart of Mackay.

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At just 20 years old, Courtney Fing is living proof of how Richglen Maintenance Services’ career pathways can fast-track progression in the mining and resources industry. Less than a year ago, Courtney was pressure cleaning shovels and draglines, working high up in elevated work platforms and assisting tradesmen with heavy machinery. Today, she’s transitioned from the tools to a key role in workplace health and safety, all thanks to Richglen’s focus on developing talent from within.
Courtney's journey in resources began in November 2022, when she moved from industrial cleaning to a Trade Assistant (TA) role. “I love being on the tools and seeing how things operate and come together,” she says. Her hands-on experience in operations gave her unique insight into the intricacies of the equipment and machinery used on-site, fuelling her desire to learn more and take on new challenges.
Recognising her dedication and potential, Richglen offered Courtney a pathway to further her career, and she soon transitioned to the position of Health, Safety, Environment, and Quality (HSEQ) Administrator. Now, she plays a crucial role in maintaining safety standards for her colleagues by managing safety data sheets, gathering statistics, updating registers, and generating safety reports. “I'm learning about all the things I didn’t realise went on behind the scenes,” she said.
What makes Courtney’s story stand out is the clear and structured career pathway she’s following at Richglen. The company’s commitment to identifying and developing talent has provided her with opportunities for targeted training and skill development. From first aid to risk assessment and investigative processes, she’s acquiring the tools to continue advancing in the company. This tailored progression plan is part of what makes Richglen such a dynamic place to build a career.
Beyond the training, Courtney finds Richglen’s close-knit, supportive environment another key factor in her success. “It’s like a big family. Everyone is always happy to teach you things and help you learn,” she says. This culture of mentorship and collaboration has empowered her to quickly step into her new role while planning for her future growth.
While she loved the camaraderie of working on-site with her mine crew, Courtney values the improved work-life balance she now enjoys in Richglen’s Mackay office. The opportunity to work business hours and be home every night is one of the many benefits she’s gained through the company’s career pathways.
Through structured progression and skill-building opportunities, Richglen is empowering employees like Courtney to achieve meaningful career growth, proving that dedication and the right support can unlock significant potential in the mining and resources sector.

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Courtney Fing (centre) with Richglen colleagues Karl Kupke and Tony Chan at Collinsville
Courtney on the roof of a dragline with colleagues Kiarma Scott (left) and Corrie Hughes

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Research by CQUniversity Psychology graduate Rebecca Brown has found FIFO life is not necessarily lonely, but parenting is tougher.
New CQUniversity research has found FIFO parents and partners are no lonlier than the rest of the parenting population.
But the study highlighted parents with a family member working remotely say parenting teamwork and consistency are tougher to achieve. 
The research was led by CQUniversity Psychology graduate Rebecca Brown and Associate Professor Matthew Thomas, Deputy Director of CQU’s Appleton Institute for health and wellbeing. 
As part of her honours project, Ms Brown studied fly-in, fly-out (FIFO) and drive-in, drive-out (DIDO) workers and their partners to analyse family and wellbeing. 
“We know mental health for this cohort can suffer, and impact workplace productivity, general wellbeing, relationships, and even development of workers children,” the Mackay-based teacher and counsellor said.
 “My study actually found both workers’ and partners’ life satisfaction and loneliness were comparable to parents in the Australian community generally – but remote working life does present specific challenges,” she said.
“Respondents reported above-average difficulty with parenting consistency, parents’ emotional adjustment around roster changes, and how family relationships are maintained.
“Interestingly, there was also no correlation between frequent communication and reduced loneliness – so strong and satisfying relationships can be achieved even if partners aren’t frequently in touch during remote working stint.
“The findings highlight the specific supports that remote workers and families might need to thrive, and I hope they can help destigmatise those challenges, and encourage families to seek that help.”
The research heard from 300 people, with average 2.17 dependents, and most workers on a 7/8 days on, 5/6 days off schedule. 
The cohort had considerable experience in remote working lifestyle, with 69 per cent FIFO/ DIDO for more than five years. 
Ms Brown also found that the cohort reported significantly higher than average life satisfaction when families felt like they’d achieved life adjustments despite the challenges.
Those positive feelings came with better parental teamwork, family relationships and emotional adjustment.
“We know around 70 per cent of Australia’s remote workers have children – so families need to know that strong parenting and relationships are possible, with the right supports.”
If you’re passionate about research to improve health and wellbeing for Australian communities, explore CQUniversity’s research higher degree opportunities. 

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CQU Psychology Honours graduate Rebecca Brown. Photo supplied: CQU

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Mornings at Laffos Bar & Pizzeria are nothing short of egg-cellent… and if you haven’t tried their range of Eggs Benedict yet, you’re in for a real treat!

Despite being known for their handcrafted pizzas and pub classics, it’s the Eggs Benedict that takes the crown as their best-seller. For every 12-inch Supreme pizza that rolls out of the kitchen, three Bennys are served up, making them the go-to breakfast, every day of the week!

Laffos has perfected the art of the Benny, offering an array of creative variations to suit every taste bud. Whether you’re stopping in for breakfast, brunch or even dinner (yes, there’s a Benny available all day!), the options are endless.

Laffos' decision to serve their Bacon Benny all day has been a game changer. No matter what time you’re craving breakfast, you can dive into two poached eggs, smoky bacon and toasted sourdough goodness, smothered in hollandaise… it’s a recipe for perfection and with generous portions, it’s easy to see why this dish is flying off the menu!

Feeling adventurous? Try the Mexican Benny, loaded with pulled pork, jalapeños and tomato salsa, or the Halloween Benny with roasted pumpkin and feta.

Each Benny has its own unique taste…it’s almost hard to pick just one!

The Pesto & Haloumi Benny is a fresh, herby option, while the Reuben Benny with sauerkraut and shaved corned meat gives a delicious twist to the traditional breakfast.

Veggie lovers will fall for the Asparagus & Sun-Dried Tomato Benny or the Avocado & Fetta Smash Benny, perfect for those who want something light but still jam-packed with flavour.

Gather your friends, family or co-workers and start your day off right with the best Bennys in town. Whether you're an early riser or sneaking in a late breakfast, Laffos has you covered.

It’s an egg-cellent deal that’s too good to pass up!

The Ultimate Benny Line-up…Which One Will You Choose?

Big Benny
three poached eggs, bacon, leg ham served on 3 pieces of toasted sourdough and fresh spinach topped with hollandaise sauce

Bacon Benny - ALL DAY
two poached eggs with smokey bacon served on 2 pieces of toasted sour dough and fresh spinach, topped with hollandaise sauce

Leg Ham Benny
two poached eggs and smoked leg ham served on toasted sourdough and fresh spinach topped with hollandaise sauce

Smoked Salmon Benny
two poached eggs and sliced smoked salmon served on toasted sourdough and fresh spinach topped with hollandaise sauce

Halloween Benny
two poached eggs, roasted pumpkin & fetta served on toasted sourdough with topped fresh spinach with hollandaise sauce

Pesto & Haloumi Benny
two poached eggs, grilled haloumi with a pesto drizzle served on toasted sourdough and fresh spinach topped with hollandaise sauce

Mexican Benny
two poached eggs, pulled pork, jalapeno and tomato salsa served on toasted sourdough and fresh spinach topped with spicy hollandaise sauce

Reuben Benny
two poached eggs, shaved cornmeat, sauerkraut served on toasted sourdough and fresh spinach topped with Russian sauce

Asparagus & Sun Dried Tomato Benny
two poached eggs, grilled asparagus & sun dried tomatoes served on toasted sourdough and fresh spinach topped with hollandaise sauce

Avocado and Fetta Smash Benny
two poached eggs, smashed avocado and fetta served on toasted sourdough and fresh spinach topped with hollandaise sauce

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Each year council offers three exciting bursaries for visual and performing arts students, but this year the amount on offer has hit an all-time high.

In total, $7000 is up for grabs.

The MECC’s Jack Sturgeon Bursary has tripled this year, with the Friends of the MECC sponsoring the bursary.

Performing arts students who have been accepted into tertiary studies in any aspect of the performing arts can now apply for $3000.

Two bursaries are also available for visual and creative arts students – the $1000 Rick Wood Bursary and the $3000 Artspace Mackay Foundation Bursary.

Mayor Greg Williamson said pursuing an artistic passion as a career was far from easy and tertiary education was becoming more expensive every year.

“You have to take your hat off to a young person who has the courage to back themselves and their creative talents by undertaking a tertiary degree, especially away from home,” Mayor Williamson said.

“These students deserve support, and we are proud to be able to offer some support to offset rising costs,” he said.

“Our region also takes great pride in seeing Mackay residents succeed and achieve great things on the national and international stage.”

Mayor Williamson said the support of the Jack Sturgeon Bursary by Friends of the MECC was a tremendous gesture.

“The Friends of the MECC do so much for our theatre and convention centre and this is just another way in which they are supporting performing arts in our region – this time on a grass roots level,” he said.

“The Jack Sturgeon Bursary for performing arts had been going for 23 years, and with this contribution from the Friends of the MECC it will give a fantastic boost to the career of young performing artists.

“One of the best things about this bursary is it covers the full gamut of entertainment – it’s not just for those wanting to be on stage performing, but also for those backstage, directing and coordinating.”

Acting Artspace Director Lauren Turton said the $3000 Artspace Mackay Foundation Bursary was geared towards visual arts students looking to take their tertiary study to the next level.

“In previous years recipients have used this bursary for a range of things like studying abroad with expert tutors or undertaking special projects, like major exhibitions or showcases in their final years of study,” Ms Turton said.

All three bursaries are now open and close Friday, November 9, 2024.

Bursaries will be presented in December this year.

For terms and conditions and to apply for the Rick Wood or Artspace Mackay Foundation Bursaries, head to artspacemackay.com.au/learning/bursary

For terms and conditions and to apply for the Jack Sturgeon Bursary, head to themecc.com.au/education/bursaries

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Last year's bursary recipients: From left, Venue and Events Operations Manager (MECC and Events) Jemma Carey, Jack Sturgeon Bursary recipient Baden Day, Mayor Greg Williamson, Artspace Mackay Foundation Bursary recipient Georgia Farlow, Artspace Mackay Foundation Bursary Highly Commended Emma Reginato, Leonie Wood (judge) and Artspace Mackay Director Tracey Heathwood

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Headaches are a common complaint, affecting millions of people worldwide. From tension headaches to migraines, the causes can vary, and so can the solutions. While diet and dehydration often get the blame, some less obvious culprits might be affecting you, particularly stress and poor posture. In this column, we’ll explore how what you eat—or don’t drink—could be contributing to your headaches and how chiropractic care can help alleviate the symptoms associated with these triggers.

The Role of Diet in Headaches
You’ve probably heard that skipping meals can cause headaches, but even your regular eating habits might be the hidden source of your pain. Certain foods and additives are known to trigger headaches in sensitive individuals. Processed foods, rich in preservatives like nitrates and MSG, can wreak havoc on your head. Similarly, artificial sweeteners, especially aspartame, can cause headaches in some people. Caffeine, while offering temporary relief for some, can also lead to withdrawal headaches if consumed in excess.
On the flip side, deficiencies in key nutrients could also be playing a role. A lack of magnesium, for instance, is linked to more frequent and intense headaches, especially migraines. Ensuring you have a balanced diet rich in whole foods, leafy greens, and nuts can make a significant difference.

Dehydration: The Silent Cause
Dehydration is another sneaky contributor to headaches. Many of us are chronically dehydrated without realising it. Water is essential for maintaining normal body functions, and even slight dehydration can lead to a headache. When you're dehydrated, your body loses electrolytes, which can cause the blood vessels in your brain to tighten, triggering discomfort.
Regular water intake throughout the day can help stave off dehydration-related headaches. If you often feel sluggish or develop headaches in the afternoon, it could be your body’s way of signalling that it needs more hydration.

Chiropractic Care and Headache Relief
While diet and hydration play critical roles, chiropractic care can also help in alleviating the pain associated with headaches. Tension headaches, often caused by muscle tightness in the neck and shoulders, can be eased with targeted spinal adjustments. These adjustments can relieve pressure and improve posture, reducing tension that might lead to headaches.

Chiropractic care can also promote better blood flow and reduce nerve irritation, both of which are factors that contribute to headache symptoms. By realigning the spine, chiropractors can help alleviate some of the discomfort caused by stress, tension, and misalignment—giving your body a better chance to heal naturally.

Combined with good hydration and a balanced diet, it’s possible to keep headaches at bay and improve your overall quality of life.

At Move It Chiropractic, we’re here to help you on that journey—guiding you toward a healthier lifestyle.

Dr Suzanne Kippen (Chiropractor)
Move It Chiropractic

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Ten silkie roosters and hens were recently abandoned in bushland without food or water, leaving them in a life-threatening situation. Local animal rescuer Robin Morgan responded quickly, finding the birds severely dehydrated.

The silkies instantly flocked to the water bowl, where a spokesperson from Mackay Pet Rescue Inc said they just “drank and drank”, marking a clear sign of severe neglect.

A call for help saw a team of four volunteers embark on a mission to recover the abandoned birds. By afternoon, seven were successfully captured, while three remained elusive. Undeterred, Robin returned to the area that evening, armed with a flashlight, and discovered two silkies roosting in a tree within reach. The two were promptly reunited with the rest of the flock, leaving just one rooster left to rescue.

The rescued birds are now under the care of Ros, where they are being kept safe until more suitable accommodations can be arranged. Once the final rooster is secured, all of the birds will be relocated to a permanent home in a rural area.

While the circumstances of their abandonment were distressing, swift rescue efforts have ensured these vulnerable animals are now out of danger and on their way to a secure future.

“It is always a good feeling when you save an animal in need,” commented a Mackay Pet Rescue Inc spokesperson.

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10 silkie roosters and hens were recently rescued after local rescuers found them abandoned in the bush. They are now in safe and sound, in care and will be relocated to a new forever home. Photo source: Mackay Pet Rescue Inc (Facebook)

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By Hannah McNamara

Sworn into the Queensland Police on July 2, 1948, Constable First Class Roy Doyle began his career in Cairns before being transferred to Mackay in 1952. His dedication to the community and commitment to his duties were evident throughout his career, but it was on March 30, 1956, during one of the region’s most devastating floods, that he demonstrated the true weight of the badge he wore.

It was on a gruelling Friday afternoon, where heavy rains had caused the Pioneer River to rise dangerously, flooding the Mackay area. Doyle, along with other officers, worked tirelessly to maintain order and ensure the safety of the community. As the river's waters peaked and began to recede, the situation appeared to be under control. However, the unexpected occurred when a man under the influence of alcohol, emerged into the floodwaters, attempting to swim across the raging river. Despite the dangers, Constable Doyle, alongside his colleagues, jumped in to save him.

In the chaos, Doyle’s decision to assist another officer in rescuing the man tragically cost him his life. Diving into the roaring waters of the Pioneer River, Doyle then struck his head on a submerged block of concrete. The impact left him significantly injured and despite efforts to save him, he passed away on April 1, 1956.

His sacrifice was recognised when he became the first Queensland police officer to be awarded the Queen’s Medal for Gallantry.

Just last week, on the 27th of September, former and current police officers as well as family members gathered at the Mount Basset cemetery to unveil Doyle’s refurbished headstone.

What was once a faded tile of memorabilia, has now been refined into a restored place of remembrance, where work colleagues, friends and family members can pay their respects to a man of bravery and might.

In attendance was Doyle’s two daughters Diane Jeff’s and Judith McGrath, who greatly appreciated the ceremony and unveiling of his new headstone.

“Diane and I are so proud of our father,” Judith said.

“Even though it’s been 68 years, we still have the feelings…we still miss him terribly and we wish he’d been here with us.”

The sisters were the first to unveil the restored plaque, which they then laid a reef in loving memory of their Father.

Secretary for the Mackay and Whitsunday Branch of Retired Police, Andre Wijtenburg said, “I ask each of you to remember all police officers who have given their lives in execution of their duty, and the families that they have left behind.”

He emphasised the importance of honouring the officers who sacrificed their life, not just on Police Remembrance Day, but for years to come, setting Constable First Class Roy Doyle as a remarkable example of the selfless spirit that gave his life to save others.

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Constable Roy Doyle, 1948 Image No. PM1791 Courtesy of the Queensland Police Museum

Former work collegues, friends and family members of Constable Roy Doyle gathered at the Mount Bassett Cemetery to honour the enduring legacy that he left behind, even 68 years later.
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Mr Doyle’s two daughters Diane Jeff’s and Judith McGrath. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Queensland’s Premier Steven Miles, Deputy Premier Cameron Dick, and local Labor candidates Belinda Hassan (Mackay), Bauke Hovinga (Whitsunday) and Susan Teder (Mirani) gathered with supporters at the Souths Suburban Bowls Club last Tuesday to discuss Labor's future plans.

The room was a sea of bright red as locals enthusiastically cheered for Premier Steven Miles and Deputy Premier Cameron Dick, who promised cost-of-living relief, improved housing, energy bill reductions and greater economic fairness.

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Premier of Queensland Steven Miles
Deputy Premier of Queensland Cameron Dick
Candidate for Mackay Belinda Hassan
Candidate for Whitsunday Bauke Hovinga
Candidate for Mirani Susan Teder. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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From addressing common electoral issues to confronting topics often deemed "controversial" by critics, Pauline Hanson’s One Nation party continues to be a vocal advocate for what it sees as the pressing concerns of everyday Australians. The party has made a name for itself by tackling issues that many believe are overlooked by the major political parties, positioning itself as a defender of traditional values and fair working class.

Last Saturday, One Nation candidate for Whitsunday and former Whitsunday Mayor, Julie Hall, welcomed Pauline Hanson to Mackay for a dinner event with local supporters at the Blacks Beach Tavern. The evening offered an opportunity to discuss pressing national matters and the party’s vision for the future.

The room was filled with applause as Hanson and Hall touched on a range of topics.

Whether it's championing stricter immigration policies, supporting pro-life initiatives, or advocating for greater investment in local industries like farming and mining, the party seeks to address what it sees as the key issues impacting the lives of Australians in rural and regional communities.

“I will continue my journey in representing the people and giving the people a say, and that’s what One Nation stands for…because we need change,” said Julie.

Pauline Hanson, Senator for Queensland, was pleased to be in Mackay and expressed her confidence in Hall, commending her dedication to the region.

“Julie is working tirelessly to bring strong representation to its people.

“I know she will be a powerful voice for this important part of Queensland.

“I have conservative values… I believe in a hard days work for a fair days pay and I also believe in reaping the rewards of hard work like the farming sector and our defence forces… these are things that are close to my heart.

“One Nation is standing up for the people who’ve been left behind and now is the time to fight for our future.”

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Pauline Hanson highlights One Nation’s dedication to improving local industries, as Julie Hall pledges to bring a powerful voice to Mackay and the Whitsundays. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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The Proserpine Entertainment Centre hosted the elegant and colourful 2024 Mayor’s Charity Ball over the weekend.

Over 200 people attended the evening, and it was a night of delicious food, generous fundraising and merriment.

Mayor Ry Collins selected two charities this year, BMA CQ Rescue and Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN), two charities that do important life-saving work in our region.

Over $60,000 was raised for these great charities through ticket sales, raffles, and an auction.

It was a spectacular event.

Blair Vea Vea, Isaac Regional Council Mayor Kelly Vea Vea, Melanie Collins, Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins, Annette Williamson, and Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson, Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Glitter, Sparkles & Great Times
At The Mayor’s Charity Ball

Mayor Ry Collins’ first Mayor’s Charity Ball was a high-class evening, with a touch of sparkle.

This year the event had two options, the Gala Experience, complete with a three-course meal and charity auction.

This was followed with the After Dark Experience which started at 8pm and guests could dance the night away in front of the amazing 1RAR band and DJ Cue.

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Deputy Mayor and Councillor Michelle Wright, Councillor Gary Simpson, Councillor Clay Bauman, Mayor of the Isaac Kelly Vea Vea, Mayor of the Whitsundays Ry Collins, Melanie Collins, Mayor of Mackay Greg Williamson, Councillor Jan Clifford and Councillor John Collins.
Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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The Collinsville Men’s Shed could get an upgrade if plans to enhance its facilities with a proposed $400,000 extension go ahead.
Under the leadership of Club President Philip Higham, the shed has served as a vital gathering place for local residents since its inception eight years ago.
Higham, who has been president for five years, emphasises the shed's role as a sanctuary where members can engage in meaningful projects, vent their frustrations, and foster camaraderie.
The shed is known for its community initiatives, including timber projects for local schools, fundraising raffles, and casual gatherings. However, as demand for its services grows, so does the need for more space.
Higham is working with Member for Burdekin Dale Last to install a larger shed, which will allow for better timber storage and the installation of an overhead dust extraction system.
“We currently have nowhere to build and store larger projects safely,” Higham explains.
The Men’s Shed has been fortunate to receive substantial support from the mines and the council, which owns the building. With upgrades to electrical systems and machinery, the shed has transformed from a small room into a well-equipped workshop. Higham acknowledges that while running the shed takes organisation and dedication, the impact it has on members is immeasurable.
“It's absolutely critical,” he states. “This space provides mental health benefits as members connect with like-minded individuals.”
Currently operating on Tuesdays and Saturdays with around 20 members, the shed plans to expand its hours to include Thursdays once the new extension is completed.
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The Collinsville Men’s Shed. Photo supplied

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Hi Everyone,

Over the weekend I had the honour of listening to Matt Stokes from Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN) speak to an audience of over 200 people at the Mayor’s Charity Ball.

He was on stage to thank the Mayor and attendees for donating half of the proceeds of the ball to WSPN, but his message was so much bigger than that.

The suicide rates in Australia are heartbreaking to witness and one so recently here in our own community was undoubtedly on the minds of many as they listened to Matt speak on Saturday night.

To think an individual would feel so lost and without hope that they choose to take their own life is so shattering and so difficult for many to comprehend.

Despite suicide being so often misunderstood the incredible team at WSPN are doing such amazing work to change this stigma, to let people know that they are not alone, it’s ok to say you are struggling, everyone finds life hard sometimes.

Having such a public platform at the Mayor’s Ball opened the conversation even further and Matt’s impassioned speech really resonated with me, and I expect many others in the room.

He encouraged us all to connect, for when we connect and ask ‘are you ok?’ or take the time to check-in with others, look for signs that someone is struggling – we may just help save a life.

Suicide is not something that is happening behind closed doors, it is happening to people we all know right here in our community and, while sadly it can sometimes be too late, there is still so much hope.

If you are struggling right now reach out, talk to a friend.

Or perhaps attend a free WSPN sponsored Breathing Class – held weekly in Bowen and Cannonvale these classes are incredible – I know this from personal experience.

Rach

Quote of the Week “There’s not an expiration date on needing help, or needing people. You don’t get to a certain age and it stops.” - Hanya Yanagihara, A Little Life

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Meet Darcy, a kind-hearted gentleman who generously donates his homegrown pumpkins to the Proserpine Community Centre for those in need.
In today’s world, fresh and healthy food can be a luxury, and sometimes, just one pumpkin can make a huge difference in someone’s day.
Ingrid Ruck, coordinator of Proserpine community centre commented on how amazing Darcy had been for the centre:
“He is well respected within our community, and I think he has been overwhelmed with the response.”
Many community members rallied together on the Facebook post, which was posted by the centre to thank Darcy for his generosity.
The Proserpine community centre’s free food trolley is there for community members to enjoy and they encourage everyone to stop by and say hello, for a free item or for one of their amazing events, such as the sausage sizzle, Latin dancing and more.
A huge shout-out of gratitude to Darcy for providing the seasonal treats to the community centre. if you could use a pumpkin or some other goodies, the Community Centre encourages anyone to stop by anytime Monday to Friday, between 9am and 3pm.

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Darcy generously donating his homegrown pumpkins, Photo supplied

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The search for missing man, Joel Pringle, sadly came to an end when his body was discovered last week.

The 40-year-old man was last seen on Monday 19 August at 4.30pm at the Lagoon in Airlie Beach and, when he did not return home, was soon reported missing.

A massive search ensued with emergency service personnel and dozens of regular people all involved in a desperate effort to bring him home alive.

Teams of people scoured the areas he was known to frequent by land and by air, but there was no sign of Joel for almost three weeks.

His last known location was at 6am near Conway Range, the day following his disappearance.

Despite the intensive search to find him alive, Joel Pringle has tragically been found deceased and his death is believed to be non-suspicious.

Joel’s partner Eve Houghton shared the devastating news via her ‘Find Joel Pringle’ Facebook group.

“It is with deep sadness that we share the news that Joel was found late yesterday evening. Unfortunately, he has passed,” the post said.

“We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has come together in the search for Joel – family, friends, and the many people who travelled from far and wide to help.

“We are incredibly thankful to the police, water police, SES, and local businesses that displayed flyers and posters.

“To everyone who offered their support and kindness - your love and care will forever be treasured by Joel’s family and close friends.

If this article has been a trigger for you, please reach out to LifeLine on 131144. Help is available and this service is open 24 hours a day. Locally, you can call Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network if you are worried about yourself or someone you are close to: 4945 2858.

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