Community News

Then & Now  A Snapshot Through Time

Then & Now A Snapshot Through Time

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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WELCOME A Message From The Principal Katherine Nelson

WELCOME A Message From The Principal Katherine Nelson

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 ade

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Nurturing Young Minds At St Catherine’s

Nurturing Young Minds At St Catherine’s

At St Catherine’s Catholic College, education begins with a strong foundation. The school is committed to nurturing students from Prep through to Year 12, helping them grow academically, spiritually, socially and emotionally. The Mercy Precinct, named in honour of the Sisters of Mercy who founded the school in 1925, is home to Prep to Year 2 students. This dedicated area includes spacious classrooms and shaded outdoor play areas featuring mini soccer fields and imaginative play spaces designed t

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Progressing With Purpose

Progressing With Purpose

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 experien

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Proserpine Girl Steals the Spotlight At Australia’s Royalty Pageant

September 19, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Jude York Announced For Songwriters Festival

September 19, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

WHAT: Whitsundays Songwriters Festival
WHEN: 10-15 October

Award-winning viral sensation, Jude York will be joining the Whitsundays Songwriters Festival this year. Photo supplied

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Tourism Whitsundays’ Social Media Top Tips

September 19, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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


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


Photo supplied

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Tourism Whitsundays Member Spotlight Whitsunday Segway Tours

September 19, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contributed by Jade Yvonne, Business Development Executive, Tourism Whitsundays

Jade and Paige enjoying their adventure, Photo supplied

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Whitsunday Jobs Fair Coming Soon

September 19, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Event highlights:

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

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

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Wilsons Beach Swimming Enclosure Repairs Underway

September 19, 2024

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.

The damaged swimming enclosure at Wilsons Beach
Wilsons Beach

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Much Loved Bowen Vet Service Opening In Proserpine

September 19, 2024

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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There’s a track winding back … The journey from CannonValley to Proserpine 87 years ago

September 19, 2024

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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Mayor Collins Welcomes New Citizens

September 19, 2024

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.

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

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Spring Show Success! For Bowen Orchid & Foliage Society

September 19, 2024

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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Pet Of The Week: Meet The Beautiful Carlos

September 19, 2024

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 Students Get Creative!

September 19, 2024

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.

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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Preparing Students For Secondary Education With Bowen State High School

September 19, 2024

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.

Photos supplied

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Whitsunday Youth Prepare For Maritime Careers

September 19, 2024

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!

Photo Credit: Ruth Puddefoot

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School Holiday Survival Guide

September 25, 2024

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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