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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For a club of 30 members, Bowen sure does put on a great show.
On 31st August and 1st September, Bowen Orchid & Foliage Society’s (BOFS) Spring Show was held in the Pat Tracey Pavilion at the Bowen Show Grounds with over 200 visitors passing through their doors to view the array of orchids and foliage plants.  
Although the show was held a couple of weeks earlier than in previous years, it still showcased an impressive variety of orchids and foliage for both judging and public viewing. Members from the Ingham, Mackay, and Proserpine clubs traveled to attend and enjoy the spring event.
On Friday evening, the Mackay judging panel, consisting of Dennis Farlow, Doug Penningh, Debbie Clark, Wayne Culla, and Jay Turner, carried out the judging duties. The event offered an excellent opportunity for the junior judges to develop and refine their skills.
Various Phalaenopsis, Cattleya, Dendrobiums, Oncidiums, Paphiopedilum and Vandaceous orchids were all represented.  
The Foliage competition was also equally amazing and included displays of Stunning Tassel ferns, gorgeous Tillandsias, Cactus & Succulents, Bromeliads, Aglaonemas, Philodendrons, Anthuriums, Caladiums, Ferns and Begonias.  
The Show had something for every garden enthusiast.
The event also had potting demonstrations conducted by BOFS member Brian Stapleton and helper Peter Millward followed by fertilising and disease management demonstrations by Noel Acton which were well attended by the visitors and members.  
In the dry tropics, a combination of bark, stone, charcoal, and large perlite is used for potting most orchids. The fertilising and disease management demonstration provided novices with insight into the purposes of various products and their specific applications.
A wide variety of orchids and plants were sold, with most of the inventory disappearing by lunchtime on Saturday.
On the Saturday evening, members celebrated their successes with a judging review of the winning orchids followed by dinner and dessert.
BOFS Club President, Liane Carruthers, presented the trophies to the winners.
Champion Foliage was won by Doug Chippendale with his Tassel fern and Reserve Champion was won by Brian Stapleton with his Maiden Hair Fern.

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Introducing Carlos, a stunning 3-year-old Bullarab/Mastiff mix who’s ready to find his forever home.
Carlos is up-to-date with his vaccinations, including his annual Proheart injection, and is on a consistent tick and flea prevention regimen. The current owner is also open to having Carlos neutered before adoption.
Carlos is a well-rounded companion who gets along wonderfully with people, older children, and other dogs.

Interested in making Carlos your new furry companion? Call Emily (Private rehoming) on: 0439 840 966

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St Catherine’s Catholic College is proudly celebrating the incredible achievements of four of its First Nations students in the 7th annual Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Foundation (QATSIF) Creative Arts Competition.

The event, held in partnership with Griffith University, showcases the creative talents of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students from secondary schools across Queensland.

This year’s competition was especially significant, with a record-breaking 201 entries across a range of artistic categories, including visual arts, dance, music, poetry, and storytelling.

The competition provides a valuable platform for young Indigenous artists to express themselves, share their culture, and showcase their creativity.

Among the standout participants were four students from St Catherine’s Catholic College, who each earned a spot in their respective categories:

   • Robert Sam took home 1st place in Year 11 Photography and also secured 2nd place in Year 11 Portraiture

   • Gaby Antrim claimed 1st place in Year 11 Story

   • Keeley Ninnes won 3rd place in the competitive Year 11 Song & Music category

   • Violette Matthew was awarded a Highly Commended distinction in Year 12 Acrylic Painting

St Catherine’s Catholic College is extremely proud of its students’ success and participation in such a meaningful event.

The college extends its heartfelt congratulations to Robert, Gaby, Keeley, and Violette for their remarkable accomplishments and looks forward to seeing where their creative journeys take them next.

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The four St Catherine’s Catholic College students who entered the Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Foundation (QATSIF) Creative Arts Competition. Photo supplied

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Transitioning from Year 6 to high school can be overwhelming and a nerve-racking experience for both students and their parents and carers.

At Bowen State High School they are trying to make this transition as smooth as possible.

In 2025, Bowen State High School will introduce four scholarships which will be awarded to a number of Year 6 students who effectively demonstrate the criteria for each scholarship. The scholarships focus on the areas of Academic Excellence, First Nations, Sport and Creative and Performing Arts.

Principal Mr Harris said, “These scholarships are an opportunity to recognise the outstanding achievements of Year 6 students as they transition from primary school to secondary school.”

“We want to continue to celebrate the successes of students and encourage them to continue this throughout their high school years.

“Our school is committed to preparing students for all things, and these scholarships will provide additional support to engage in the many opportunities we provide students at our school.”

Over the last two years, Bowen State High School has worked with their feeder schools to ensure the transition period is not just an event for students but also an ongoing process to ensure all students are prepared for their next steps in education.

To guarantee new students and parents feel prepared, Bowen State High School has hosted several Q and A sessions and feeder school visits. They strongly communicate with primary schools, and get to know the students prior to their first day of Year 7.

Bowen State High School will also host a transition day next term, and next year the first couple of days for Year 7’s will be Get to Know and Well-being activities.

Delores Tuyishime, known as Mr T by the students, is the Year 6 to 7 transition coordinator and it is his responsibility to help the students transition smoothly.

Mr T says he enjoys working with the primary school teachers and getting to know the Year 6 students before they start at Bowen State High School.

“It is wonderful to see their excitement as they are learning about high school,” he said.

“My goal is to make their journey into this new chapter of education as comfortable and confident as possible.”

Craig Ninnes is Head of Diversity at Bowen State High School, and his role is to work closely with Year 6 teachers and their inclusion teams to gain a deeper understanding of each student's individual needs, ensuring that current adjustments are effectively tailored to Bowen State High School’s environment.

“This is to support the social emotional wellbeing of students and their access to the Australian curriculum,” Mr Ninnes said.

“For our vulnerable students, Bowen State High School also offers an Extended Transition Program to provide more time for students to orientate themselves around the school, become familiar with our school processes, and meet our support services team.

“Bowen State High School also recognises that staff require professional learning to support transition, particularly for students with disability who require extensive support. This involves meeting with families, collaborating with departmental specialists, and providing repeated opportunities for staff to build capability through training and work shadowing.

“At Bowen State High School, we want to live by our motto of being ‘Prepared for All Things’.”
Enrolment applications are now available for Year 6 students.

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Photos supplied

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Last Friday, 24 students from Whitsunday’s Senior Schools reached a significant milestone by earning their Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Coxswain Grade 1) through the VETiS program. This government-funded initiative allows students to gain nationally recognized qualifications while still in school.
Their hard work and dedication culminated in this prestigious achievement, marking the beginning of their exciting journeys in the maritime world.
The initiative is managed by the Whitsunday Sailing Club who is the registered training organisation and was brought to life by Asher Telford, the operator of Red Cat Adventures, in response to widespread staff shortages across the Mackay and Whitsundays’ marine and tourism industries:
“I wanted to create a program where kids had hands-on learning in real-life situations so that when they finished the course, they didn't just have a piece of paper; they were real-life ready and employable,” Asher stated.
“It brings a tear to my eye whenever I see a bunch of kids come out and know that they're ready to be gainfully employed straight out of school.”
When asked why students should take advantage of this fantastic opportunity Asher stated that it helps the students get into a well-paid trade early on:
“It sets them up with a trade straight out of school that's healthy and is outdoors, with good earning potential, not with low apprentice wages, they're straight into earning and having fun.
“It also builds massive confidence being on boats, and especially in tourism, where they can sometimes be in front of hundreds of people.”
Trainer Deb Duggan from Whitsunday Sailing Club enthused about the initiative:
“I think it's very unique,” she said.
"In the past, students could pursue certificate courses through the school, but these were typically limited to fields like cookery or tourism.
“Now, however, they have the opportunity to integrate all these skills and embark on a career at sea.
“This new option not only opens up exciting career prospects but also benefits local students and supports the regional economy."
As the Whitsunday Sailing Club are a registered training organisation, they provide all the facilities and the training, alongside getting the students through the certificate.
The Whitsunday Sailing Club reaches out to local schools to provide information about the VETiS program. They gauge interest from students and, based on this feedback, offer the opportunity to participate to those who are interested.
A huge congratulations to the newly awarded Coxswain students!

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Photo Credit: Ruth Puddefoot

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Ahoy there, parents and guardians!

We’re heading into the final stretch of the school holidays, and if you’re anything like me, you’ve been navigating these waters with a mix of excitement, exhaustion, and just a splash of chaos. As I sail through a good week—feeling well enough to get out and about before my next chemotherapy treatment—I’ve been making the most of it with my little one, who’s nearly a year and a half now. Let me tell you, keeping up with a toddler during school holidays is its own kind of endurance test!

We decided to jump aboard Mackay Regional Council’s Treasure Trail this year after only managing to visit a few locations last year. I was determined to redeem myself, and I’m proud to say we conquered most of it over the weekend, with just one stop left to check off Monday morning (thanks to a Sunday closure). Hats off to the crew who blitzed through it in under five hours—that’s some seriously impressive charting and time management! If you haven’t signed up yet, there’s still time to register and embark on your own adventure. Who knows? You might even win a treasure trove of prizes! Check out page 26 for all the details and some of the fantastic photos families have shared.

And here’s a pro tip (without giving away too much): you’ll be heading up the Valley on this adventure, so why not make a pit stop at one of the cafes, pubs, or galleries along the way? Show some love to our Valley neighbours and let them know Mackay’s got their back.

If you need more inspiration for how to survive the final week of holidays, our event guide on page 22 has you covered. Plus, there’s a special school holiday feature on page 24 and all the info you need about the fun day at the Dunes on page 25.

Happy sailing, me hearties—may you find adventure, relaxation, and just enough caffeine to see you through!

Amanda

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On a quiet Sunday afternoon at the Ampol service station in Farleigh, a local woman found herself in a predicament, unsure of which oil to buy for her car.

The young employee, though polite, couldn’t provide much assistance, so they decided on a 5-litre bottle of 30-weight oil. Just as she was about to pay, a friend messaged her, suggesting she needed 40-weight oil instead.

Rushing back to the shelves, she encountered what she later described as an "angel" in the form of a "gentle giant" named Scott.

Scott, seeing her dilemma, stepped in without hesitation.

“You’ll need a 40, and only a litre,” he said, quickly locating the correct oil. Not only that, but he kindly offered to put it in the engine for her.

At the counter, as she fumbled to transfer funds, Scott surprised her further.

“Grab your drinks, I’ve got the oil,” he said with a smile.

In shock, she realised Scott had already paid for everything. Running out to thank him, she found him by her car, pouring the oil into the engine.

When she expressed her gratitude, Scott simply replied, “There has to be some kindness in this world... too much sadness.”

This small but touching act of generosity serves as a beautiful reminder that kindness is alive and well, often appearing when it’s needed most.

“Mackay has some beautiful angels living here... in all sorts of shapes and sizes,” she said.

What small act of kindness can you offer today?

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A graduation ceremony at Mackay Base Hospital for six Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students last week marks the next big step in turning their healthcare career dreams into a reality.

The teens have completed an 18-month traineeship across various departments at the hospital as part of the Budyubari Bidyiri Kebi Stapal or Big Dream, Small Steps Program.

In a ceremony on Tuesday 10 September, the students cut the graduation cake and were presented with their Certificates lll qualifications in either Health Services Assistance or Allied Health Assistance.

Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) chief executive Susan Gannon congratulated the 2024 graduates who began their traineeships early last year.

“Each trainee has gained valuable skills, insight and experience in the healthcare industry while still at high school and working in various units across the Mackay Base Hospital,” she said.

“The aim of the program is to build the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander workforce to better reflect the community we care for.”

Mackay HHS organisational development manager Kelly Klemen said the traineeship gave the students ‘on-the-job’ experience and helped them develop foundational skills, knowledge and practical experience working in the health sector.

“It’s become such a valuable, growth experience for many of them it solidifies their decision to work in the healthcare industry,” she said.

As one of seven children in his family, trainee Domonik Battersby felt very “at home” working in the paediatric department at Mackay Base Hospital and well as spending time in the surgical unit, wound clinic and emergency department.

“This traineeship has been a real stepping stone for me to realising my dream,” Domonik said.

“I’ve worked different shifts, seen many different aspects of working in healthcare and heard some really interesting stories; it’s helped finalise my decision to work towards being a travel nurse,” he said.

North Mackay State High School student and trainee Tiarni Walker is committed to studying nursing at university after she began her traineeship in April last year. Working in both the renal unit and F2 medical unit at the hospital helped her to develop rapport with patients and grow her confidence.

“I did a range of different tasks such as feeding, showering and bathing and bed making in the unit. I really liked seeing the elderly patients, having a chat with them and knowing that what I was doing was making a difference to them,” Tiarni said.

The Big Dream, Small Steps Program is a collaborative effort which provides a network of support for students. It is funded through Metro North’s Deadly Start program who have partnered with registered training organisation (RTO) Connect ‘n’ Grow to deliver the training. Students are also provided with support by Seed Foundation Australia.

The Budyubari Bidyiri Kebi Stapal (Big Dream, Small Steps) program 2024 cohort began their school-based traineeships in July.

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Big Dream, Small Steps traineeship graduates and local high school students include, from left, Tiarni Walker, Yasmin Johnson, Fletcher Pinkard, Domonik Battersby, Bella Roberts and Macy Rudken

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Member for Whitsunday, Amanda Camm MP, is calling on the Queensland Government to be open and honest with Queensland commercial and recreational fishers about its future plans for the fishing industry.  

“For the last two years, this Labor Government has treated our Queensland fishers with contempt bringing in changes with little consultation or transparency around their decision-making process and with little concern as to the implications on the future of the fishing and seafood industry in Queensland”, Ms Camm stated.

Ms Camm said that Mackay and Whitsunday fishermen have declared that the temporary Government-issued NX licenses are inoperable and require urgent review.

“The LNP candidate for Mackay, Nigel Dalton and I have sat around the table with our local fishers, many of whom have already been impacted financially and are concerned about their future viability and the future viability of the industry,” she said.

“I’ve met with stakeholders, I’ve written to the Minister, I’ve asked questions in Parliament and still the Government refuses to consult and listen and be transparent with our community.”

Representatives from the tourism industry have also raised concerns about the implementation and inconsistency of the regulations.

Mr Dalton said, “The onboard vessel monitoring regulations mean that currently fishers are being filmed going to the bathroom in the boat, effectively in their workplace, in front of their colleagues, which has to be considered a huge breach of privacy.”

Ms Camm stated that the industry is struggling as a result of these changes with 90 per cent of fresh fish sold in our region now imported from interstate.

“There are not enough licensed providers in our region to catch fresh fish. Local businesses are expected to either absorb the interstate freight costs or pass them on to the consumer,” Ms Camm stated.  

“In a cost-of-living crisis, these increased costs cannot be sustained.”

Ms Camm and Mr Dalton are calling on the Queensland Government to be honest about the further restrictions and regulations they are proposing to introduce on our commercial and recreational fishers.  

“The Queensland Government needs to advise fishers and all seafood-loving Queenslanders if the fishing industry has a long-term future under a Labor Government.

“Regional Queenslanders and our fishing community deserve better.”

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Member for Whitsunday, Amanda Camm, LNP Candidate for Mackay Nigel Dalton listening with local fishers David Caracciolo, Paul Vickers and Deb Ahern. Photo supplied

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By Amanda Wright

For nearly four decades, M&P Services has been a cornerstone supporter of the Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club, showcasing a remarkable dedication that started in the 1980s. The foundation of this enduring relationship was laid by Max Lamb senior, who, using M&P’s first truck, transported vital materials to Mackay to establish the lifesaving club at Harbour Beach.

This long-standing partnership was celebrated recently when Max Lamb Jr. from M&P Services presented the club with a generous donation, courtesy of their 9th annual charity golf day in conjunction with Key Solutions Group.

Alongside the cheque, the club received two custom-made FBE eskies, crafted in M&P’s workshop specifically for the lifesaving club.

Peter Marshall, the Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club's Gear and Equipment Officer, highlighted the critical support M&P has provided.

“Max and his team have been extraordinary in their support,” Pete said.

“Not only do they offer financial aid, but their logistical help is invaluable. For instance, they arrange for dongas and dangerous goods containers for major events like the North Australian Titles. These resources would typically be a huge expense for us.”

Pete stressed the importance of M&P’s contribution to the club's operations.

“The eskies provided by M&P help us store drinks during beach events, ensuring our volunteers and participants stay hydrated.”

Pete also highlighted the broader impact of M&P’s support on the community: “Kids need to learn about ocean safety from a young age, as our environment includes everything from creeks and dams to the open ocean.

“M&P’s support helps us continue teaching these vital skills, from identifying rips and swells to overall water safety.”

The M&P Services & Key Solutions Group’s annual charity golf day, now a cornerstone of Mackay’s philanthropic events, once again showcased how swinging clubs can make a world of difference. This year’s event raised an impressive $61,200.

Each hole was a chance to contribute to something greater, with the community uniting for a common cause and turning a day on the greens into a meaningful opportunity for giving back.
The funds raised were allocated to a variety of worthy causes, with the Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club among the beneficiaries. This year's charitable efforts also supported the Trudy Crowley Foundation, Ronald McDonald House, and the Mackay Cutters. Essential services and community organisations were also aided, including BMA CQ Rescue, MCVA, Wildlife Rehabilitation Queensland, CASA, Mackay Netball Association, Mackay Hospital Foundation, Australian Street Aid Project, and the Kidney Support Network.

Once again, the community came together, showing that when it comes to supporting important causes, everyone is ready to step up to the tee.

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M&P Services Director Max Lamb Jr. (left) presented Peter Marshall from the Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club with two eskies and a cheque from the recent charity golf day. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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Applications are now open for 10 more Regional University Study Hubs to be established around Australia, giving more students from rural and regional areas access to tertiary education.

MP Andrew Willcox is throwing his support behind the program which has already supported over 12,000 students in 46 locations across Australia since its establishment.

“Living in rural, regional, and remote areas can create significant barriers of entry for students looking to study at a tertiary level, but this program helps to alleviate these difficulties by bringing the universities closer to where these students live,” Mr Willcox said.

“Where you live shouldn’t dictate whether or not you can access tertiary education, and I strongly encourage eligible organisations in Dawson to apply to establish study hubs to support the students in our electorate.”

For more information on the eligibility criteria and application process, visit: www.education.gov.au/regional-university-study-hubs

Applications close Friday 18 October 2024 at 5:00pm AEDT.

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