Sparking Powerful Conversations On Mental Health

Almost 140 people attended the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network’s (WSPN) Legends Night and over $25,000 was raised.

President of WSPN Matt Stokes said the event was a huge success, not just because of the money raised, but the response he has had from the community.

He said many people have come to him to express that they had a wonderful time at the event.

On the night, WSPN invited several inspiring speakers to address the audience.

Ray Thompson ex NRL Cowboys player talked about his personal challenges during and after his rugby career, but he also talked about practising gratitude and empathy. He then explained that practising these two will eventually lead to inner joy, feeling happier and being more optimistic.

Jay Shipston from Triple M talked candidly about his own experience with suicide, about what he was going through but ultimately about how suicide impacts friends, family and the community around you.

Bowen community member Lisa Cocker inspired the room with her passionate story telling, as she spoke about her sister who sadly took her own life. Her broader message highlighted the power in kindness and how we can all share love.

Nick Farr-Jones former Wallaby captain and World Cup winner spoke about a broad range of things including an eye-opening statistic that in Australia one person every eight minutes attempts suicide.
More positively he spoke about his time volunteering. If he feels down, he volunteers to help other people, and it lifts him up.

WSPN’s mission is to end the stigma around mental health and Matt Stokes says the worst thing to do is to say nothing.

“We all choose to say nothing and pretend it doesn't happen, whereas we all need to be encouraged to speak and talk to people,” said Matt

“If you are someone who's struggling to put your hand up and talk that's the thing we are trying to get broken down.

“Mental health is not exclusive to any age, demographic or person. You might be at the lowest of the low or the highest of the high, we're all very much exposed to mental health problems.”

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Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network with founder Ron Petterson. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Hi everyone,

I’m jumping into the editors column for this week.

I’ve been with Life Publishing Group for almost a year and a half now and I can say that I am still thoroughly enjoying my time here. Every day I am meeting even more new people and I love attending our local events - if you see me out and about - come and say hi!

Last Friday I attended Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network’s Legends Night at the Reef Gateway Hotel. I was the night's official photographer, but I also got to enjoy the great guest speakers and a delicious dinner.

I found the speakers incredibly inspiring, and I noticed that they all had something in common.

Being kind, practising gratitude, and being optimistic were the key points that I took away from the evening.

After going through a tough time myself recently, I was able to take on board what they said and I have already started to implement these practises into my life. Almost instantly, I am starting to feel more settled again and I’m feeling great.

Amongst practising gratitude, being kind and being more optimistic, I am also exercising more. I find exercising a positive outlet, and the feeling after a run, swim or bike ride is something I’m starting to seek more and more often.

Although exercise is great for mental health, I am not training in all those sports for no reason! I am pleased to announce that I am training for the sprint distance in the Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival in August. My friend, Sam from Adelaide, will be visiting the Whitsundays for the first time to compete, and I can’t wait to beat him! And of course also show him our amazing region.

Quote of the week
"Happiness equals reality minus expectations"

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Creative Connections Whitsundays is looking at transforming the former Proserpine Information Centre, located next to the Proserpine Museum, into a vibrant community art gallery through their ‘Frame Our Future’ campaign.

This space will be more than just a gallery; it will be a dynamic hub for local artists to exhibit their work, a venue for creative workshops, and a welcoming place for people to gather, learn, and connect.

Creative Connections Whitsundays say the building has great potential but it needs some work. They want to enclose the veranda, add soundproofing, fit out the space with flooring, lighting, furniture, and materials for workshops. It’s a big project but they say it will make a meaningful impact.

Once complete, the gallery will be a valuable asset for the entire community. It will boost local tourism, support small businesses, and help establish Proserpine as a cultural destination. Most importantly, it will provide locals with a space to create, share, and connect.

Creative Connections is currently seeking donations to allow them to bring this dream to life.

Creative Connections is a local group whose focus is to highlight the region's local artists and the art gallery could be a great addition to support their mission.

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The old Information Centre is set to become an Arts Centre. Photo supplied

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The Whitsunday Regional Council's new 'Let's Get It Sorted' initiative is focused on improving the region’s recycling habits by getting back to basics. The campaign is designed to help residents understand what goes into each bin and how their choices at home can lead to real improvements in waste reduction.

The Waste team at Council have one objective and that is to reduce total waste to landfill.

"One of the main ways to do this is to increase the total of materials that can be reprocessed or recycled, and this can be done by increasing public knowledge on general waste disposal practices and waste separation prior to disposal," said a council spokesperson.

At the heart of the campaign is a clear message, small changes in everyday waste disposal can lead to big results for the environment. By reinforcing simple 'do’s and don’ts' of recycling, the Council hopes to make waste management more accessible and achievable for everyone in the community.

The campaign has already started to gain traction, with strong interest from residents keen to do their part.

“There has been positive feedback so far through requests for fridge magnet or sticker noting handy recycling tips, as well comments and participation in increased school presentations and information stalls at community events such as the recent Qld Day stalls at Proserpine,” Council said.

While it’s still early days, with the campaign running through until October, a number of measures are in place to monitor its effectiveness.

These include a kerbside bin audit scheduled for September, which will examine contamination rates in recycling bins and the amount of recyclable material being placed in general waste.

This data will be compared with the results of a similar audit conducted in 2023.

For those wanting to do more Council say you can share your own journey and spread messages of positive recycling practices and methods to spread the word and increase knowledge around the community.

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Sports Day in 1984
Sports Carnival in 2025

A newsletter in the 1980’s
A newsletter in 2024

The Year 5 Last Supper performance in 1985
The Year 1 Last Supper performance in 2025

Rugby League in the 1980’s
Rugby League in 2025

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As the proud principal of St Catherine’s Catholic College, I would like to extend a welcome to community members to learn more about our College, and to join us for the 100 year celebration.

In 1925, the Sisters of Mercy founded St Catherine’s School in Marathon Street. Many of our current students have parents and grandparents who attended the school and who have fond memories of their schooling. Catholic schools were originally founded to provide for those who might not otherwise gain an adequate education. Clearly, this has changed over the years, but many other things have remained the same.

The nuns who taught early students certainly demonstrated the Faith, Hope and Love that form the theme of Catholic Education Week 2025 - the week in which our celebrations will happen. The early nuns had faith that they were supported by God and faith that a good education would lead to a productive future for their students. That faith continues to drive us forward. Their hope that the school would make a difference to the lives of those who passed through their doors remains our hope today. The world has changed but the intention of Catholic education has not. The love - or charity - shown by those founders who often endured great challenges to achieve their goals, remains fundamental to the way we work, with productive relationships prioritised in the College. So, while we have moved to bright, modern and extensive grounds in Proserpine, our Catholic foundation remains unchanged.

It is my hope that generations of St Catherine’s students will recognise clearly the spirit of St Catherine’s in what we do, and how we do it, year after year. We are proud of the learning environment that our students access. This encompasses not only excellent facilities and grounds, a breadth of academic options, caring and dedicated teaching and support staff, but also guidance within the Gospel values of Compassion, Justice, Community and Excellence.

So many people I have met in the Whitsundays tell me of their association with the school - past students and others. Please join us for the celebrations, particularly at the Centenary Community Picnic. We hope the day will allow for some nostalgia; the rekindling of connections with others in the community; and a chance to look around our beautiful College. I look forward to seeing you there.

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At St Catherine’s CatholicCollege, education begins with a strong foundation. The school iscommittedto nurturing students from Prep through to Year 12, helping them growacademically, spiritually, socially and emotionally.

The MercyPrecinct, named in honourof the Sisters of Mercy who founded the school in 1925, is home toPrep to Year 2 students. This dedicated area includes spaciousclassrooms and shaded outdoor play areas featuring mini soccer fieldsand imaginative play spaces designed to inspire curiosity, creativityand exploration.

Early years teachers focus onestablishing essential literacy and numeracy skills in a warm,inclusive environment. Parental involvement is highly valued, andyoung learners are made to feel part of the wider college communitywhile enjoying their own tailored learning space.

Students engage in structuredlessons that build skills in reading, writing, speaking, andmathematical thinking. Teachers at St Catherine’s use the VisibleLearning Framework and regularly track each student’s progress,supported by diagnostic assessments from educators and specialists.

Technology also plays a key role inlearning. All classrooms have wireless access, and students use 1:1mobile devices and Google Apps for Education to create, collaborateand communicate responsibly. Families of students in Years 4–6 canopt into a 1:1 Chromebook program, further enhancing learningoutcomes.

St Catherine’s also prioritisesphysical development, incorporating gross motor programs into theweekly routine to ensure learning extends beyond the classroom.

Strong partnerships with familiesare a cornerstone of the college. Parents are encouraged to attendassemblies, help in classrooms and connect through class blogs andnewsletters. Regular information sessions with child developmentexperts are also offered to support families on the educationaljourney.

At St Catherine’s, every learneris seen, heard and supported to flourish, in the classroom, in theplayground and in life.

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At St Catherine’s Catholic College, the primary school program for children in Years 3 to 6 lays a strong foundation for academic success and personal growth within a supportive and inclusive environment. With a focus on educating the whole child through head, heart and hands, students are guided through these important years by dedicated classroom teachers who support both their wellbeing and academic development.
Literacy and numeracy remain central to the curriculum, but the learning experience is enriched through specialist subjects such as instrumental music, visual arts, Indonesian, drama, and health and physical education. Early intervention programs ensure every child receives the support they need to thrive.
Technology also plays a key role, with students participating in a 1:1 laptop program and engaging in hands-on learning through robotics and coding. These practical experiences deepen understanding, build confidence and prepare students for the digital future.
Beyond the classroom, St Catherine’s offers a wealth of extra-curricular opportunities designed to build leadership and character. Students can join the Student Representative Council, take part in inter-school sport, attend literacy and arts festivals, and get involved in social justice projects. Camps, retreats and a homework club further enrich the school experience.
St Catherine’s value strong partnerships with families, encouraging parent involvement through assemblies, classroom help and community events. This collaborative approach fosters a sense of belonging and ensures each child feels supported on their learning journey.
The primary school years at St Catherine’s are shaped by high expectations, a supportive culture and a strong commitment to excellence, fostering confident, capable learners ready to embrace new challenges as they move into secondary school.

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At St Catherine’s Catholic College, the Secondary Campus caters to students from Years 7 to 12, offering a vibrant and supportive environment where young learners are empowered to thrive academically, socially, and spiritually.
Igniting Curiosity in Years 7 to 9
The middle years at St Catherine’s are all about exploration and discovery, offering a rich curriculum designed to ignite curiosity and uncover hidden talents. Students dive deep into essential subjects like English, Maths, Science, and Religious Education, while also exploring the exciting worlds of Humanities and Social Sciences, including economics and business. Creativity truly comes to life through dynamic programs in drama, visual arts, music, dance, media, and design technology, where students bring their ideas to vibrant reality.
In today’s fast-paced digital age, students gain valuable skills with hands-on courses in digital technologies and design technologies that equips them to thrive in a tech-driven world. The opportunity to learn Indonesian as a Language broadens their cultural awareness and global outlook. Health and Physical Education rounds out their learning experience, with extension PE options that inspire students to stay active, healthy, and confident.
A rotating subject schedule ensures every student has the chance to explore a variety of fields, helping them discover what excites them most while building a diverse and balanced skill set for the future.
At St Catherine’s, every student’s potential is nurtured. The Learning Enrichment Activities Program (LEAP) challenges and supports high-achieving students, offering stimulating projects and opportunities to extend their learning beyond the classroom. Meanwhile, the Inclusive Education team works closely with classroom teachers to provide personalised support for students who need extra assistance, including access to specialists like guidance counsellors and speech pathologists. Individual learning plans ensure all students receive the care and attention they deserve.
Year 9 with Purpose
Year 9 students often face the challenge of navigating between junior enthusiasm and senior responsibility. St Catherine’s responds with the ‘innovative 9@StCaths Program,’  a dynamic initiative designed to develop students academically, physically, spiritually, and psychologically.
Each term focuses on a powerful theme. Students start by building confidence through challenges and self-reflection, then move to entrepreneurship by creating and selling products at a community fair. Later, they connect with global issues through activities like a trip to Canberra, before culminating the year with leadership opportunities and personal growth.
Building Bright Futures in the Senior Years
For Years 10 to 12, the college offers a diverse and challenging curriculum tailored to individual goals. Students choose from general subjects, applied courses, and nationally recognised Vocational Education and Training (VET) certificates, providing pathways to university, further education, or the workforce.
Work experience and school-based apprenticeships are actively encouraged, helping students gain practical skills and real-world insights. The dedicated Careers Coordinator guides students through career planning, subject choices, and post-school pathways, ensuring a smooth transition into adult life.
A Community Rooted in Values
Guided by gospel values of justice, compassion, and reconciliation, St Catherine’s fosters a close-knit community where students, teachers, and parents work together to support every learner. Pastoral care is a priority, with dedicated coordinators ensuring students feel valued and supported throughout their journey.
Homework is set thoughtfully to consolidate learning while allowing for a balanced lifestyle. Regular reporting and parent-teacher interviews keep families connected and informed.
St Catherine’s Catholic College is more than a school; it’s a place where young people discover their strengths, explore new possibilities, and prepare for a future full of opportunity.

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Whitsunday Regional Council is proposing changes to the Whitsunday Planning Scheme 2017 to better manage short-term accommodation, like Airbnbs, within the Low-Density Residential zones.
The aim of these changes is to strike a better balance between homes for locals and holiday stays for visitors.

We’ve mapped out 10 precincts across the region where STA may be supported, based on things like community feedback, existing use and historical holiday areas.
Head to Council’s online engagement space, yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au to find out more and to have your say!

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In the last couple of weeks there has been a few humpbacks whale sightings in the Whitsundays, as well as whale sounds through a hydrophone.  The whales will start to become more regular now.

The first humpback whales to arrive in Whitsundays in late May/early June are the females who are looking to mate this year.  Followed by the pregnant females.

Humpback whales only mate every 2-3 years.  Their gestation period is 11-12 months and their calf will stay by their sides for 12 months.  Some females will take a gap year after weaning their calf.

The last to arrive are the males wanting to mate.   They often stay in the Antarctic feeding grounds for a couple of extra weeks to build up their energy reserves for performing and pursuing the females wanting to mate.

The males will often be in a competitive pod showing off their speed and strength.  They will breach out of the water showing their strength and land on their backs which makes them appear bigger than their competitors.  The female leads the chase, where the weaker whales will drop off, ensuring she will mate with a male with the best genes.

This can often be seen early in the season, in the open water to the outer GBR or at the reef, which is outside the 300m vessel exclusion zone, but within the 100m zone.

During the season there are regular sightings on Explore’s Full Day GBR tour. The crew love seeing this as well, so will often cut the engines if there is a pod spotted in the distance.  Often whales are spotted cruising along the wall at Bait Reef, while the vessel is on the mooring (see photo).

Cruise Whitsundays have sightings on their full day GBR tour to Reef World and Sealink on their GBR tour.

In mid to late June the pregnant females settle into the maternity ward areas around the islands and then give birth and stay in the nursery area for the first few weeks of the calf’s life.

There is a high chance of spotting pregnant females, mothers and calves; and other humpbacks on any of the regular Whitehaven, Hill Inlet and snorkeling tours around the islands from July to September.

Humpbacks can also be spotted from July,  from anywhere on Hamilton Island including the balcony of your accommodation, One Tree Hill, Passage Peak, the marina break wall and the Yacht Club.  As well on ferry trips to and from the islands.

Land based locations on the mainland include Flagstaff Hill at Bowen, Shute Harbour Lookout, St Helens Beach, Dolphin Heads, Blacks Beach, Slade Point Water Tower, Lamberts Beach Lookout, Mackay Harbour Breakwalls and Campwin Beach Lookout.

You could also charter a boat, but be mindful of the 300m exclusion zone in the ‘Special Whitsunday Whale Protection Area’ zone or near a calf anywhere.  It’s a 100m exclusion zone everywhere else, except if a calf is present.  JetSkis must stay 300m away everywhere.

If you see a whale please post it on the ‘Whales of the Whitsundays’ Facebook group page.  Also check the page to see where whales are being sighted.

Contributed by Kellie Leonard - Whales of the Whitsundays/Master Reef Guide

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Here in the Whitsundays, we are very fortunate to have such a diverse landscape, made up of a variety of vegetative regimes; woodlands, grasslands, rainforests, mangrove forests and…Littoral Rainforests.

Littoral Rainforests occur on coastal headlands, dunes, sea-cliffs or other places influenced by the sea. There are a range of plant life forms including trees, shrubs, vines, herbs, ferns, and epiphytes (plants that are supported by or grow on other plants). Several plant species found in littoral rainforests are listed as threatened.

Littoral Rainforests support a wide array animal species, and are crucial for biodiversity. Animal life includes a variety of birds, mammals, reptiles, and invertebrates, with some listed as vulnerable and endangered. Coastal dunes and beaches adjacent to the forests provide nesting sites for the endangered sea turtles.

They also provide essential ecosystem services like water filtration, carbon sequestration, and nutrient cycling. This, in turn, protects the Great Barrier Reef by helping maintain water quality.

Littoral Rainforests provide coastal protection by acting as natural buffers against erosion, storm surges, and strong winds, safeguarding coastal communities and infrastructure.

Unfortunately, littoral Rainforest is listed as a critically endangered ecosystem, protected by the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act (EPBC).

What was once an almost continuous group of patches of the ecological community along the eastern coast of Australia has been and continues to be reduced and fragmented by land clearance, weed invasion, recreational disturbance, animal browsing/grazing, fire, and natural disturbance.

Climate change may directly impact on Littoral Rainforests by changes to rainfall and increased temperatures and by an increased intensity of coastal erosion.

In the Whitsunday region, Littoral Rainforest is found along the mainland coast in areas such as Hydeaway Bay and Dingo Beach as well as on several islands.

Conservation efforts include protective zoning (no clearing), management plans, and restoration efforts which are crucial for their survival. Raising awareness and involving local communities in conservation efforts is also vital.

By recognizing the unique importance of littoral rainforests and actively addressing the threats they face, we can ensure their long-term survival and the valuable services they provide to coastal communities and ecosystems.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Conservation Council.

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Hi everyone,

Winter is well and truly here, and I’ve been hearing more and more about the amazing marine life this season brings! While whales often steal the spotlight, we’re also seeing more sightings of manta rays and dugongs!

It’s been freezing lately, I’ve been tucked up with my hot water bottle most nights! Luckily, the chill hasn’t stopped me from getting creative. I’ve been running some wonderful weekly art sessions at Eco Barge HQ, where we turn recycled waste into beautiful pieces. It’s been so rewarding to see how they’re coming along, and even more so to share it with a lovely community of like-minded people. We’re very lucky to have such a special crew here in the Whitsundays.

Happy reading and stay warm,
Ruth

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Budget 2025–26: Building a Fairer, Stronger Whitsundays

Last week, Council handed down the 2025–26 Budget—my second as Mayor, and one that truly reflects the direction Councillors and I want to take as a region.

My first budget last year was delivered just weeks after we were sworn in. This year, we’ve had time to dive deep, confront the financial realities, and make tough but necessary choices to put us on a more sustainable path.

We uncovered a structural deficit in our general fund—around $10 million a year—partly masked by cross-subsidisation from water and sewerage revenue. That simply wasn’t sustainable.

At the same time, we’re facing rising costs, from roads to rubbish to insurance, and a $779,000 drop in state financial assistance grants. Like households, we’re feeling the squeeze.

That’s why this year’s budget includes significant reform, starting with how we fund our services. We’ve introduced a fairer, more modern rating system—built on principles of equity, simplicity, and sustainability.

For residential owner-occupiers, the average general rate rise is 2%, with utilities increasing by about 5%—an overall weekly increase of $2.92. For commercial and large industrial ratepayers, there’s a larger adjustment to bring their contributions in line with service use and property values.

We’ve also worked hard to reduce waste and improve how we operate by delivering $3 million in savings across areas like libraries, environmental services, communications, and internal functions. That’s allowed us to reinvest in core services, including an extra $2.5 million for road and footpath maintenance.

Importantly, we’re investing in the future, with a $114 million capital works program. That includes water and sewer upgrades, major road renewals, and improvements to parks, waste facilities, and community spaces.

Projects like the Cannonvale Community Hub, the Whitsunday Sports Precinct, and the Collinsville Hub are more than infrastructure—they’re a signal of confidence and a foundation for growth.

This budget is about balance—responsibility today, and ambition for tomorrow. It doesn’t fix everything overnight, but it sets us on the right track: fairer, more sustainable, and future-ready.

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Proserpine’s very first show brought together an isolated community for social activity and friendly competition. While these days our community is no longer isolated, today’s show (now known as Show Whitsunday) continues to be an important and greatly anticipated social event. The people of the Whitsundays owe a debt to the many dedicated men and women who, for well over a century, have given their time and talents to make the annual show the success that it is today.

Rail, hail or shine, this annual event has drawn crowds. At times, volunteers have had to work under extremely difficult conditions to ensure that the show would go on. In 2007, despite rising floodwaters that threatened to take over the showground, the mud, and extreme cold weather, the show went ahead. It was the wettest on record resulting in the cancellation of several events including cattle and wood chopping. “Gumboots, raincoats and umbrellas were out in force as crowds mingled.” (“Whitsunday Coast Guardian” June 27 2007).

Three years later, Cyclone Ului in 2010 caused widespread damage to the grounds but was nothing compared to the utter destruction inflicted by Cyclone Debbie in 2017. BUT again, the show went on thanks to the tireless band of show committee and community volunteers.

The first official show was held on its current site in 1910 and members of the community have maintained the tradition of displaying their arts and crafts, their flowers and farm produce, and much more every year apart from 1919, when there were no exhibits due to restrictions during the great flu epidemic; the two years during World War 2 and 2020, during the lockdowns necessitated by the global Covid pandemic.

Recollections from our first show – 1910
Extracts from “Show Whitsunday: Celebrating 100 Shows” sheds an interesting light on this very first show held on the same grounds as it is today.

• The guessing competition has been altered in the schedule and the first prize now is a Singer sewing machine valued at £15.
• The secretary was instructed to write to the Tramway Board for an excursion train for Saturday 27th.
• It was decided that in the event of the catering not to be tendered for, that it be included in the privileges to be sold by auction on Saturday and that a guarantee be given for 40 lunches at 2s 6d per head.
• It is announced this issue (referring here to the local paper) that the business people intend to close on Thursday during show week at 1 pm to 7 pm, Friday close all day, Saturday open from 8 am to 10 am, close from 10 am to 7 pm. It is a poor heart that never rejoices, and it is hoped customers will call and give their orders in early and make it as light as possible for those who are connected with shops, so as to let them have the full benefits of the joyous time.
• The Proserpine Show Ball during the carnival week was one of the most successful ever held at Proserpine. About 130 people were present and dancing was kept up till the small hours of the morning. Mr Setter’s taxi was busy engaged taking the dancers to and from the ball which contributed in no small way towards its success.

While times have certainly changed since 1910, the annual show remains a popular event in the social calendar. And this year, the 112th show is sure to deliver yet another fun-filled and action-packed two days of entertainment for all the family; something for everyone.

So, mark the dates in your calendar – June 20 & June 21. Your support is important if the show is to go on …

Story courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum. Photo and extract on the 1910 show sourced from the publication, “Show Whitsunday: Celebrating 100 Shows”.

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