Many years ago I was sitting on a ferry docked on the shores of Lake Van in eastern Turkey, near the borders with Iran, Iraq and Armenia, when two young Western women came racing towards me and asked if they could sit next to me.

I had been sitting on the deck of this aquatic jalopy with a handful of other travellers and locals while the skipper waited for more people to arrive for the trip to the ancient cathedral we had come to see on a nearby island.

A bus had pulled up and the two women in their early 20s got out, grabbed their backpacks from the under-carriage, and started walking towards the old ferry.

I noticed they were speeding up and making a beeline towards me. They walked straight up to me and said: “Can we sit with you?”

I was happy to oblige and they sat on the bench on either side of me, pressed up pretty close against my legs.

Like me, the young women had been through quite a journey from Istanbul, through various Aegean cities and the amazing central region of Cappadocia to get this remote dot on a map near Mount Ararat, which is said to be the landing place of Noah’s Ark after the big flood.
But our experiences had been quite different. I was in my late 20s, travelling by myself,  and had thoroughly enjoyed the history of the country and the warm friendliness of the people as I visited cafes and restaurants and explored the country’s incredible tourist attractions.

But for my new female companions, New Zealanders named Diane and Susan who had been travelling together, the experience had been completely different.

At that time, in that part of the world, there was a cultural misunderstanding, a misinterpretation, when it came to two young women travelling around by themselves.

As they huddled up next to me they told me their past few weeks had been hell. In a nutshell, they said local men had taken the firm view that these two single women had come to the country to have sex with them. It was just a matter of which men they were going to choose … and there was no lack of keen participants.

From then on Diane and Susan stuck to me like baklava to a blanket for the remainder of their time in the country.

That night we stayed at a lovely old village. We got a lot of attention, more than I usually received.

The girls stayed at my side and the men really only spoke to me or at least looked at me first, as though for approval, before talking to Susan or Diane.

Later in the night at some café or restaurant, a couple of the blokes took me aside and asked me: “Which is your girlfriend? Is it Susan or Diane?” Clearly they were trying to establish availability and show me due respect.

I said I was with both of them. “You are with both? They are both your girlfriends?”
“Yes, they are both my girlfriends.”

“Oh, really. Wow. Two girlfriends!”

In a remote region filled with history and legends, a new one was established that night. It was the one about David the Australian, sadly a myth, but one that confirmed the perceived benefits of male life in the Western world.

These days, selling real estate in Mackay, I am not required to provide the same type of protection. But protection is what a good agent provides.

An agent’s job is to protect your greatest asset, do all the things that need to be done to get the best price. You have to trust the agent, know in your heart they will do the right thing, the professional thing. You know you will be safe with a good agent because they respect and honour the responsibility.

Just like looking after Susan and Diane.

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The Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC) will come alive on Saturday 27 September with two dazzling performances of Simply BRILL - a celebration of the songwriters who transformed 1960’s rock ’n’ roll forever.

Starring three of Australia’s most acclaimed cabaret artists - Amelia Ryan, Michaela Burger, and Helpmann Award-winner Michael Griffiths - Simply BRILL transports audiences to the heart of New York City’s legendary Brill Building.

Known as the “one stop shop” hit factory, this iconic address reshaped the sound of popular music, launching the careers of young songwriters whose work would dominate the charts and define an era.

The show’s theatrical storytelling blends history, humour and heart, retelling the rise of icons like Bill Haley & The Comets, Neil Sedaka, Bobby Darin, Carole King, Cynthia Weil, and Ellie Greenwich.

Backed by a live five-piece band, audiences will be swept up in timeless hits such as Rock Around the Clock, Splish Splash, Oh Carol, Will You Love Me Tomorrow, You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling, River Deep Mountain High, and Leader of the Pack.

Michael Griffiths, whose career spans starring roles in Jersey Boys, Priscilla Queen of the Desert, and We Will Rock You, has performed everywhere from New York’s 54 Below to London’s Royal Albert Hall and the Sydney Opera House.

Known for his magnetic stage presence and vocal mastery, he leads the trio alongside the dazzling Ryan and Burger - both celebrated nationally and internationally for their powerhouse performances and award-winning original work.

"This is the kind of show that just makes you feel good," said Andrew Bobeldyk, Executive Manager MECC and Events.

"The music is infectious, the stories are fascinating, and these performers light up the stage. You don’t just sit and watch - you find yourself singing along and remembering why these songs have lasted for generations."

Simply BRILL will have two performance sessions at the MECC on Saturday 27 September - a 12:00pm matinee for those who love an afternoon of great music, and a 7:30pm evening show for a night out filled with energy, nostalgia, and world-class entertainment.

Event Details
The MECC Presents: Simply Brill
Saturday 27 September
Matinee: 12:00pm | Evening: 7:30pm
Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre
Tickets available at www.themecc.com.au

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The MECC will light up on Saturday 27 September with Simply BRILL, a vibrant, hit-filled tribute to the 1960s songwriters who defined rock ’n’ roll. Photo supplied

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Residents will again have the chance to spruce up their gardens with the ever-popular native plant giveaway on again.

The bi-annual event gives residents the opportunity to collect up to 14 free plants.

Nurseries team leader, Sue McCormack, said staff at the Mackay Natural Environment Centre were prepared for big crowds.

“We get between 600 and 700 ratepayers at the centre in the two days, which is wonderful to see,” Ms McCormack said.

Among the species on offer is the Eungella Bottlebrush, which has small, dense foliage making it an attractive hedging plant.

“The Eungella Bottlebrush loves full sun and tolerates both dry and boggy conditions and a wide variety of soil types,” Ms McCormack said.

“They are also critical for biodiversity, with the stunning pink flowers attracting bees, which are so important in the local environment.”

Those who are looking for more of a groundcover are also catered for, with the Everlasting Daisy also available.

“The eye-catching, papery yellow flowers attract bees and insects when in the garden and also make stunning dried flower displays,” Ms McCormack said.

Co-chair of the Sustainability Strategic Advisory Committee, Councillor Alison Jones, said the native plant giveaway helps to deliver council’s Urban Greening Strategy.

“We are working to increase Mackay’s vegetation coverage over the next 20 years, after it was found our urban vegetation coverage was relatively low,” Councillor Jones said.

“Having more trees and plants not only improve the look and feel of an area, but increased vegetation improves air quality, reduces storm water run-off and creates cooler neighbourhoods.”

To claim your four free native plants, head to the Mackay Natural Environment Centre at 6 Swayne Street, North Mackay on Friday, August 22, from 9am to 3pm and on Saturday, August 23 between 9am and noon.

For an additional 10 free plants, including a shady tree for wildlife, sign up to the Gardens for Wildlife online https://www.mackay.qld.gov.au/gardens.

You can also buy extra plants for $3 each.

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Mackay residents can collect up to 14 free native plants at the popular bi-annual giveaway on August 22–23, supporting biodiversity and council’s Urban Greening Strategy. Photos supplied

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Fun Ways To Stay Active With Kids

Staying active doesn’t have to be a solo pursuit – bringing the whole family along can make fitness fun, foster healthy habits, and create lasting memories. For parents looking to keep kids engaged while moving their own bodies, a variety of activities can turn exercise into play.

Outdoor adventures are an ideal starting point. Local parks, beaches, or walking trails offer opportunities for family walks, nature hikes, or even scavenger hunts that encourage exploration while keeping hearts pumping. Cycling around neighbourhood streets or nearby trails allows kids to burn energy safely, while also giving parents a moderate workout.

Backyard workouts can be both practical and entertaining. Set up obstacle courses with cones, ropes, or household items, or organise mini sports tournaments like soccer, basketball, or badminton. Even simple activities such as jumping rope, tossing a frisbee, or running relay races can improve agility, coordination, and cardiovascular fitness.

Structured family fitness classes are gaining popularity in many communities. Dance or martial arts sessions designed for parents and children can build strength, flexibility, and confidence while encouraging positive interaction and teamwork.

Integrating activity into daily routines can also make a difference. Short bursts of movement while doing chores, playful stretching during TV breaks, or even active travel to school can add up over the week.

Ultimately, the key to successful family workouts is making them enjoyable and inclusive.

When exercise becomes a shared adventure rather than a chore, children develop a positive relationship with fitness, and parents benefit from quality time and improved well-being.

Because, who wouldn’t want to turn family time into fun and fitness all at once?

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Fitness Cartel Mackay: Our Largest Health Club Opens This Year

If you thought you knew what a gym could be, think again. Opening later this year, Fitness Cartel Mackay will be Fitness Cartel’s largest health and wellness club, delivering Affordable Luxury to every member. This 3,450sqm fitness sanctuary is purpose-built to inspire, energise, and connect. Opening in Spring this year, Fitness Cartel Mackay isn’t just another club — it’s a flagship destination redefining what it means to train, recover, and belong.

Build your own fitness stack with a huge range of facilities and flexible membership options — combining the training styles, recovery methods, and lifestyle perks that work for you. Whether you want to lift heavy, stretch deeply, cycle hard, or simply unwind, you can train your way.

When you step inside you will discover the difference.

From six-star bathrooms and over 20m of dumbbell racks, to over 500 pieces of world-class equipment hand crafted in Italy, everything is designed to inspire. Explore group training in the ultramodern Cycle Studio, a dedicated Reformer Pilates Studio, and a versatile Group Fitness Studio offering Les Mills, Yoga and custom classes. For something different, there’s the exclusive Comfort Zone for those who prefer to train in a quiet, private space, a dynamic Functional Training Zone, and even a full Multi-Sport Court.

Parents are well looked after with the Kids Cartel Crèche, featuring a custom-built playground, so parents can train with peace of mind. After your workout, refuel at the Cartel Café with a fresh coffee, a post-session protein shake, or stock up on your favourite supplements and the latest Fitness Cartel Apparel.

The Wellness & Recovery Centre is unlike anything Mackay has seen before. Inside you’ll find a 12 person 6–8°C Cold Plunge, a 40-person 32°C Magnesium Pool, and an 18-person 38°C Hot Spa. There’s also a spacious 24-person Traditional Hot Rock Sauna and a dedicated Compression Therapy Room with Normatec Dynamic Air Compression Boots.

For those looking to take recovery even further, additional treatments are available, including access to a Massage Room, Red Light Therapy, and Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy.

Foundation Memberships are now live, giving early members access to exclusive rates. Secure your place today and be among the first to experience Mackay’s ultimate fitness playground.
Get started today at fitnesscartel.com.au.

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Which is Right for You?

Deciding whether to rent or buy a home is one of life’s biggest financial and lifestyle choices. Both options come with their own advantages and challenges, and understanding these can help you make an informed decision that suits your personal circumstances, goals, and budget.

The Pros of Renting

Renting offers flexibility that buying often cannot match. If your job or lifestyle requires frequent moves, renting allows you to relocate with relative ease and without the financial burden of selling a property. Renters are also generally not responsible for maintenance and repair costs, which can save money and hassle.

Another advantage is the lower upfront costs. Renting usually requires a bond or security deposit and perhaps a few weeks’ rent in advance, but avoids the large down payment, stamp duty, and closing costs that come with purchasing a home.

For many, renting can also offer access to desirable locations or amenities that may be unaffordable if buying, such as apartments in city centres or complex facilities like gyms and pools.

The Cons of Renting

However, renting means you’re paying towards someone else’s asset without building equity for yourself. Rent can also increase over time, often unexpectedly, which can impact your budget. Renters have limited control over their living space – restrictions on pets, renovations, or even lease renewals can affect your comfort and stability.

The Pros of Buying

Buying a home is often seen as an investment. Over time, property typically appreciates, allowing owners to build equity that can contribute to financial security and wealth creation. Homeownership also offers stability – no sudden lease terminations or rent hikes – and the freedom to personalise your space without restrictions.

Owning a home can provide tax benefits, depending on your location, and the chance to leverage your property as collateral for other investments.

The Cons of Buying

On the flip side, buying requires a significant upfront financial commitment. Down payments, legal fees, inspection costs, and ongoing expenses like mortgage repayments, rates, insurance, and maintenance add up. Additionally, property markets can fluctuate, sometimes decreasing in value, which poses a risk to owners.

Owning a home also ties you to one location, making it harder and costlier to move quickly for job changes or lifestyle needs.

So, Which Option Is Right for You?

Choosing between renting and buying depends largely on your financial situation, lifestyle preferences, and long-term goals. If flexibility and lower upfront costs are priorities, renting may be the better choice. If building equity and establishing a permanent home are important, buying might suit you more.

Before making your decision, consider factors like job stability, savings for a deposit, credit score, and how long you plan to stay in one place. Consulting with real estate and financial professionals can also provide personalised guidance.

Ultimately, whether you rent or buy, understanding the pros and cons helps ensure your housing choice supports your wellbeing and financial health.

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Life Publishing Group's newest staff member, Mia Galbraith, who works for Burdekin Life Newspaper is stepping up as a Burdekin Water Festival (BWF) Senior Ambassador representing CORES QLD. As part of her mission to help others, Mia, has taken it upon herself to run a Self Love Night to raise awareness for the importance of mental health and valuable funds for the invaluable work of CORES QLD.

The event takes place this weekend and in the run-up Mia has shared several videos and posts online, detailing how important it is to take care of and prioritise your own personal mental health, featuring BWF Committee members as guests on occasion to encourage conversations surrounding mental health awareness.

This Saturday, the 23rd of August, Mia invites the community to come on down to The Vault in Home Hill for an evening of positivity, self-love and family connection from 4:30pm onwards.

The evening will include live entertainment, wonderful guest speakers, drinks, and delicious food as well as plenty of activities, BINGO games and raffles to keep the fun flowing well into the night!

All proceeds from the event will be directly donated to CORES QLD, and all attendees are kindly asked to wear bright colours to contribute to the event’s joyful atmosphere!

What: Mia's Self Love Night
When: Saturday 23rd of August, from 4:30pm
Where: The Vault, Home Hill

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Hello Everyone,

Over the weekend, I had the pleasure of attending the 25th annual Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival—and what a treat it was! A huge congratulations to Mick, Val, and their incredible army of volunteers who made the event not only possible but truly memorable.

A big shoutout also to all the participants—from overall winners Josh Ferris and Tara Sosinski to every single person who trained, showed up, and gave it their all. Dozens of local kids took part again this year, cheered on by proud families, filling the course with energy and community spirit. It was a joy to watch.

Alongside the pros came the amateurs—everyday people who made the brave decision to step outside their comfort zones, challenge their limits, and use their bodies in ways they hadn’t before. It wasn’t just a physical feat; it was a mental one too. And I’m sure for many, crossing that finish line wasn’t just a triumph for the body—it was fuel for the soul.

One such amateur was our very own journalist Daniel Heggie, who had been quietly training for months. His goal? To race alongside a childhood friend travelling up from Adelaide who had thrown down the challenge. In true friendly rivalry fashion, the competition wasn’t about beating others—it was about beating each other! If you see Daniel around, ask him for the full story—it involves a three-minute margin and a catastrophic bike leg.

We wrapped up the weekend at the Sunday night Sponsors Dinner, where I was once again blown away by the festival’s warmth. Many guests commented on how unique this event is — intimate and welcoming to everyone from elite athletes to first-time triathletes. It’s that sense of connection and community that makes this festival so special.

Rach

Quote of the Week: "Don't be pushed by your problems. Be led by your dreams" (Ralph Waldo Emerson)

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Calls from Whitsunday Regional Council and Mayor Ry Collins have borne fruit, with $18.9 million secured under the Country Road Connects Program to seal 15 kilometres of the Bowen Developmental Road.

Mayor Collins said the funding is a long-awaited win for the region’s rural industries, residents, and road users.

“We’ve heard over many years how important this road is—particularly to our rural industries, cattle farmers, the livestock sector, as well as the residents that traverse our rural areas,” he said.

Currently, three sections of the Bowen Developmental Road remain unsealed, creating ongoing problems for road safety and access, particularly during disaster season when wet weather makes travel unpredictable and sometimes impossible.

“This will really be that additional stage that’s needed to enhance user safety, strengthen our resilience during wet weather events, and improve accessibility for the community out there,” Mayor Collins said.

The sealing will provide certainty for freight and agricultural transport, ensuring livestock from high-volume cattle areas in the west can move more efficiently and safely.

Mayor Collins said the announcement reflects years of advocacy by council and local stakeholders.

“We really extend our appreciation to the Crisafulli Government for recognising the importance of additional sealing on the Bowen Developmental Road, and look forward to delivering a fantastic project,” he said.

Council also acknowledged the support of Minister Brent Mickelberg MP and Burdekin MP Dale Last, who have backed the project as part of a broader investment in regional roads.

“This upgrade is a huge win for safety, industry and our Whitsunday rural communities,” Council stated in a recent Facebook post.

Work is expected to begin following project design and planning, with further announcements to come in the months ahead.

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15 kilometres of the Bowen Developmental Road will be sealed
A map showing the area where works will take place
Mayor Ry Collins has been a strong advocate for the funding

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The Crisafulli Government will deliver certainty and restore fairness for commercial and
recreational fishers in the Whitsundays and across the state, with a new stock assessment
revealing sustainable populations that would support increased catch limits for Spanish
mackerel.

This year’s Spanish mackerel stock assessment found the population was now likely to
have doubled since the previous assessment, revealing restored populations that would
support increased catch limits.

Based on this, the Department Primary Industries has proposed raising the Spanish
mackerel catch limits for both commercial and recreational fishing.

If these proposals are adopted, the recreational boat limit will double from two fish per boat
to a maximum of four fish per boat.

For commercial fishers it will see a 51.5 per cent increase with the annual commercial total
allowable catch raising from 165 tonnes to 250 tonnes.

The stock assessment for Spanish mackerel is the first conducted since the Crisafulli
Government’s overhaul of the former Labor Government’s flawed processes in 2021,
which attracted strong criticism from industry, qualified experts and independent reviews.

Existing Spanish mackerel limits will remain in place until the proposed changes are
adopted subject to public consultation.

Amanda Camm MP, Member for Whitsunday, has welcomed the proposed increase to
recreational and commercial limits.

“The proposed increase in the commercial catch limit represents approximately $3.5
million in gross value of production to the Queensland economy, that’s extra money that
will circulate through our coastal communities," Amanda Camm said.

“Spanish mackerel is a favorite in our local fish and chip shops, and this announcement is
a step in the right direction toward supporting not only our local commercial fishers but
also our small and family businesses that supply fish or support recreational fishers.”

Matthew Calder, owner of FISHI Whitsundays, said the proposed increase is a positive
move forward for Queensland’s commercial fishers and the seafood consumers we
represent.

“We need to keep pushing, with the help of the LNP Crisafulli Government, and put
Australian Seafood first," he said.

Public consultation will be announced in due course, with the proposed changes intended
to take effect by the end of the year.

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FISHI Owner Matthew Calder and Amanda Camm MP Member for Whitsunday. Photo supplied

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Proserpine-born actor Connor Hawkins is set to return to his hometown next month for a debut performance of Tom Paine: Based on Nothing, an intense, thought-provoking one-man show that promises to push both performer and audience out of their comfort zones.

Written by acclaimed playwright Will Eno, the 75-minute monologue is described as “stand-up existentialism” and a stream of consciousness dialogue through life’s rawest moments: life, love, childhood and mortality.

Connor describes the show as its title.

“The title says it’s based on nothing, and it definitely leans into that,” added Connor.

Connor has performed in numerous productions, but this is the first time he will perform a monologue-type script.

“It’s probably going to be the hardest thing I’ve ever done in my acting career,” Connor said.

“I needed something to test me, but also to prove to myself that I could do it.

“Once I get through that first performance, it’ll be like a monkey off my shoulders, and I will feel pretty good after that.”

Connor, who grew up between Proserpine and Airlie Beach, first discovered his love for theatre in high school drama classes, later building a career across stage and screen. Bringing this production home, he says, is particularly special.

Tom Paine: Based on Nothing will be performed at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on Friday, September 12.

WHAT: Thom Pain (based on nothing) performed by Connor Hawkins
WHERE: Proserpine Entertainment Centre
WHEN: Friday 12 September (7:30pm – 8:45pm)

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What started as a glorious day on a tropical island took a serious turn for BMA CQ Rescue’s patient today.

The patient experienced cardiac distress while on Daydream Island, and the helicopter was called to provide the urgent medical care they needed.

Normally, a routine landing occurs on the helipad at Daydream Island, but this time the BMA CQ Rescue team had to be winched down to the patient. Once the patient was stabilised, both the medical team and the patient were winched back up to the helicopter.

With everyone safely back on board, the chopper headed for Mackay, where further medical care awaited.

The winching operation was required as the helipad is currently under repair. When asked about the helipad, BMA CQ Rescue CEO Tim Healee said, “The Daydream Island helipad is currently closed for repair. BMA CQ Rescue and Daydream Island are actively working together to build a new helipad that is purpose-built for our AW139 helicopters.”

“We thank Daydream Island for their proactive approach to ensuring we can offer critical care to their island guests and staff and for their commitment to the new helipad.”

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In just a couple of short weeks, one of the state’s longest running annual celebrations will return to the streets of the Burdekin Shire for a memorable day of fun, festivities, food and fabulous entertainment!

Just a few hours’ drive North of the Whitsundays, the Burdekin Water Festival will come alive on Saturday the 6th of September to celebrate the township’s abundance of water and rich agricultural sector with a series of events scheduled throughout the afternoon and into the night in the heart of Ayr itself.

The official Queensland Country Bank Grand Parade will line Queen Street from end to end with an array of magnificent floats, machinery, marching bands, and community groups for all to enjoy from 4:30pm onwards. Over the past couple of months, countless local businesses, schools, community groups, and organisations have been hard at work, decorating their floats to bring the magical 2025 theme of “Bon Voyage – Roam the Globe” to life for festival goers to admire from the footpath.

The procession will then be followed by a memorable Mardi Gras overflowing with live entertainment, games, amusement rides, side-show alley favourites, face painting, Melville’s Petting Zoo and a wide variety of market stalls.

2025’s Burdekin Water Festival will also stage the debut of Burdekin Eats, a new international culinary experience inviting attendees to experience a wide array of foods from across the globe! In line with the festival’s travel theme, Queen Street will be filled with tastes, sights, and sounds from countries far and wide to create a wonderful family-friendly atmosphere like never before.

Additional festival favs will also make a return this year including the Tug-O-War Competition, where teams will battle it out for the coveted title of Grand Champion! Winning announcements for the Garden Competition, Window Display Competition, and the drawing of the Major Raffle will also take place during the evening.

At 7pm sharp, all eyes will turn to the Main Stage, where judges and committee members will crown the Winning Junior Ambassadors, bringing the 2025 Ambassador Program to a close and marking a key highlight in the festival calendar.

Building on the success of last year’s iconic come back, the Burdekin Water Festival Committee is hopeful this year’s event will be bigger, better and more brilliant than ever!

To view the full program of events and festival updates, visit the Burdekin Water Festival’s newly launched website, www.burdekinwaterfestival.com.au or check out the event’s social media pages across all platforms to stay in the loop!

What: Burdekin Water Festival
When: Saturday the 6th of September from 4:30pm
Where: Queen Street, Ayr

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Worldly themed floats and endless festival fun awaits at the Burdekin Water Festival this September (Photo Credit: Sharron Bozzetto)

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The Whitsunday Coast Chamber of Commerce brought local businesses together last week for a practical and engaging session on the art of networking, emphasising how the right connections can fuel both personal and professional growth.

The event, hosted by The Whitsunday Coast Chamber of Commerce and Kath Barker of Compass Realty Whitsunday, was built around a simple but powerful idea: networking isn’t just about exchanging business cards it’s about building trusted relationships.

Chamber Liaison Dr Julia Evans highlighted that an effective network can be operational by providing people who help you execute, strategic by surrounding yourself with peers who help you think and aspirational by being with those who inspire you to grow.

Throughout the event, members explored both the features and benefits of networking. On a practical level, networking allows business owners to connect with peers, industry leaders, and potential collaborators, while sharing knowledge, market insights, and best practices. It also provides access to valuable resources, from funding opportunities to support services, and increases visibility within the community. The benefits flow directly back into businesses, creating opportunities for growth, mentorship, and stronger collaboration across the region.

A key takeaway was understanding your reputation and knowing your relevance. To strengthen both reputation and relevance, focus on advocacy by being clear about what you stand for, marketing yourself to communicate your expertise effectively, continually learning and staying visible through education and events, building meaningful networks, and ensuring operations—following through on commitments and taking consistent action.

Many members shared that networking is the key to securing most of their work. By simply talking about what their business offers, they open the door for others to connect them with opportunities because in a small town, people are always willing to help one another.

The session delved into the importance of reputation and relevance, reminding members that how they show up, treat others, and deliver results is what builds trust. Both Julia and Kath shared horror story experiences of networking, and the don’ts for hosting your own networking event.

Attendees were asked to consider the unique strengths they bring to the table, whether it be hard-won skills, results achieved for others, or challenges they have personally overcome. These reflections formed the foundation for participants to craft their own elevator pitches. Concise introductions designed to clearly convey who they are, who they help, the problems they solve, and what makes them different.

To ensure the momentum continues beyond the session, the Chamber encouraged participants to take small but meaningful follow-up actions. Suggestions included sending a personalised video or voice note, arranging coffee catch-ups, swapping email addresses, sharing curated resources, or even hosting mini masterminds. These simple gestures, are what turn initial meetings into lasting professional relationships.

The underlying message of the day was clear, networking is not a one-off event but an ongoing practice. By intentionally building connections, local business owners can position themselves for long-term success while also strengthening the Whitsunday region’s economic fabric.

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Chamber Liaison Dr Julia Evans, Chamber President Allan Milostic, and Kath Barker. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Monday the 18th August through to Friday 22nd August is Queensland Road Safety Week. A week dedicated in Queensland for sending a message for all road users about the choices they make could save a life or take one.

Police across the State are asking road users to pause and reflect on how they drive ride walk or use our roads. Like my previous article road safety is a shared responsibility, whether you are a driver, passenger or pedestrian. One poor decision can lead to life long consequences so this week we are asking everyone to drive smart and stay safe for your family, your mates and every Queenslander.

Queensland Police are committed to reducing the trauma on Queensland roads, but we can’t do that without your help. It’s not just about fatalities. We are seeing a rising number of people left with life changing injuries including spinal damage, traumatic brain injuries and amputations.

This year alone, data from the Motor Accident Insurance Commission (MAIC) shows the number of people left with road crash injuries is increasing, with 3,526 injury claims this year, 262 of those with serious injury, compared to 3,214 the year prior, of which 236 were serious injuries. These are mums, dads, mates and colleagues whose lives and families will never be the same. All it takes is one moment of distraction one wrong judgement or one tired blink and a life can be shattered.

There is no excuse for getting behind the wheel while impaired by alcohol or drugs. Plan ahead so you can get home safely. Nominate a designated driver. Book a rideshare or taxi. Stay overnight if needed. The safest choice is to plan before you drink not after.

Motorcycle riders, pedestrians, cyclists, e-scooter and e-bike users are among our most vulnerable road users. They have less protection than those in vehicles and are more likely to be seriously hurt in a crash. Actively check for these users, especially when changing lanes. Follow the road rules and be alert of your surroundings at all times.

As of the 18th August 2025, 178 lives have been tragically lost on Queensland roads this year. Many of these deaths were the result of speeding or dangerous driving. Every life lost is one too many and these high numbers are why we have increased our presence on the roads. If you don’t want to listen to me, listen to the greatest full back to ever play the game of Rugby League.

In local news Whitsunday Station has been busy of late. We’ve seen an increase in anti-social behaviour down the Main Street of Airlie Beach the last couple of weekends. Mostly between the hours 1am and 3am (the time when most people are making their smartest decisions). Incidents are generally when the licenced venues have closed, and people are waiting for Taxi’s to drive them home. Please can I ask that you be patient with each other. Plan to leave earlier, as I know there is a delay in Taxi services at that time of night. Don’t let your evening be ruined by a trip to the Airlie Beach Hilton with the local Constabulary. But if you do, please leave a positive review.

Contributed with thanks to Contributed with thanks to Senior Sergeant Officer in Charge of Whitsunday Police Station Anthony Moynihan

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