Stella Life is hosting a special morning tea, inclusive of uplifting music, inspiring speakers and an overview of their new Neighbourhood Heart program set to help combat community loneliness.
The Neighbourhood Heart program is a free initiative designed to link local residents through volunteer support, creating a network of care and inclusivity. The program will highlight how you can get involved in enhancing your community's sense of belonging, safety, and support.
Head on down for a cuppa and see what you can do to support the community!

What: The Neighbourhood Heart Program Morning Tea
When:  Wednesday, 4 September, 9–11 AM
Where Bowen Garden Club Hall, 65 Williams Street, Bowen
RSVP: RSVP by 26 August and inform of any allergies or dietary requirements. Contact info@stellalife.com.au 0456951980 to secure yourself a place.

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A new expanded seagrass nursery
has been unveiled in Airlie Beach
which will support the enhancement
of degraded seagrass meadows,
helping to build their resilience against the
increasing impacts of climate change.
CMERC Director, Professor Emma Jackson,
said the new expanded nursery, which
is part of the Coastal Marine Ecosystem
Research Centre, would play a crucial role
in seagrass restoration in the region.
“Seeds collected from nurseries are used
to re-seed damaged or fragmented meadows,
helping to improve their overall condition
and resilience,” Professor Jackson
explained.
“This upscaled initiative which is hosted
by the Coral Sea Marina Resort in Airlie
Beach builds upon the success of the pilot
nursery, which demonstrated outstanding
seagrass growth and serves as a model for
other areas,” she said.
“The new nursery is three times larger
than the pilot nursery and will enhance
our capacity for seagrass restoration, but
also have more accessibility for local community,
schools and tourists to visit and
learn about this important habitat.”
The project is working with Traditional
Owners as custodians of Land and Sea
Country to deliver restoration activities
and build capacity. As part of the project,
CQUniversity has employed two local Traditional
Owners to maintain the nursery
and safeguard the seagrass.
“This collaboration underscores our commitment
to integrating traditional knowledge
with scientific practices. Community
members can also volunteer to help collect
seagrass flowers, with multiple events held
each year.”
The nursery is part of the Great Barrier
Reef Foundation’s Reef Islands Initiative
Whitsunday Seagrass restoration Project
and is a partnership with the Great Barrier
Reef Foundation, CQUniversity, Reef
Catchments, the Coral Sea Marina Resort
and Ngaro and Gia Traditional Owners.
Great Barrier Reef Foundation’s Reef Islands
Initiative Senior Program Manager
Clarissa Elakis said the importance of seagrass
to the Great Barrier Reef could not
be overstated.
“The Pioneer Bay seagrass meadows are
an important nursery and food source
for endangered species like the turtle and
dugong and help filter pollutants like fine
sediment and nutrients from the water.
But they also have another critical job –
mitigating climate change by storing carbon.
“However, as the climate continues to
change, the Reef ’s seagrass meadows are
struggling to recover from increasingly
severe and frequent cyclones like Cyclone
Ului and Cyclone Debbie which severely
impacted the region’s seagrass meadows in
2010 and 2017.
“The new expanded seagrass nursery will
give local seagrass meadows an additional
boost toward recovery.”
Professor Jackson said the increasing impact
of climate change and water quality
had been felt by seagrass meadows worldwide.
“Initiatives such as this play an important
role in building the health and resilience
of these important marine environments.”
The Reef Islands Initiative is supported by
funding from Lendlease, the Australian
Government’s Reef Trust, the Queensland
Government and the Fitzgerald Family
Foundation, and locally coordinated by
Reef Catchments.

Opening of the Sea Grass Nursery, Photos supplied

Sea Grass Nursery

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A recent article published by Whitsunday Life Newspaper and written by the Proserpine Museum set in motion a remarkable story of connection.

It revealed that a current Proserpine Hospital obstetrician is in-fact the grand-daughter of the first baby born at the facility 100 years ago.

The connection only became apparent when Dr Kyren (Ky) Baxendell was reading the article about the history of maternity care in the Proserpine region and noticed the maternity ward’s official opening date of 12 July 1924.

This was just one day prior to the birth of her maternal grandmother Joyce Alice Nicholas.

“My grandmother was always super proud of being born at Proserpine Hospital on 13 July 1924,” Ky said.

“She loved the fact that I was working here and said ‘you just wouldn’t believe it Ky, I was born there and now you are delivering babies there’. She just loved that.

“Now I really understand why as not everyone was born in a hospital in those days; most births were attended by untrained midwives at home.”

The first hospital maternity ward was an extension of the original Proserpine Hospital built in 1911 on the riverbank opposite the Junior Sporting Complex on Crystalbrook Road.

Ky’s beloved grandmother Joyce Bagley (nee Nicholas) sadly died in Brisbane in May this year, just two months shy of her 100th birthday.

“We combined Joyce’s 100th birthday celebration and her funeral on her actual birthday on 13 July,” added Ky.

“She had already received her letter from the King prior to passing away two months before her birthday.”

“Whenever patients come into the hospital who are around that vintage I often tell them my grandmother was born here and tell them her name.

“They often don’t remember her, but then remember her playing at the dances or remember her brother Fred Nicholas who lived in Proserpine all his life.”

Although moving to the Whitsundays in 2019, Ky feels very connected to the Proserpine community.

“From a rural doctor perspective, it’s a great hospital in that it’s a non-specialist hospital and I’m a GP obstetrician. It also has a very high birth rate at more than 300 births per year,” she said.

“I was already familiar with the Whitsunday area, we loved the coast and I knew rural doctor jobs here didn’t come up very often.

“I’m not local, but kind of, sort of am really,” she said.

“My family is local and I’m incredibly proud to be delivering babies here where my own grandmother was born.”

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Dr Kyren (Ky) Baxendell and her grandmother Joyce Bagley.
Young Joyce Nicholas
Albert and Joyce Bagley wedding party in Proserpine 1945
Joyce and Albert Bagley with family (including mother Elizabeth Nicholas)

Photos supplied

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Woodman Group of Companies (WGC), a proud Proserpine local business, is your go-to destination for all your building needs.

With a wide range of products and services, WGC caters to both trade professionals and the general public.

Whether you're a seasoned builder or a DIY enthusiast renovating your home, WGC has you covered.

Their extensive stock includes essential building materials such as fixings, fibre cement products, timber, and pine.

The business also boasts sizing and dressing facilities, ensuring that you get the exact materials you need for your project.

What sets WGC apart is their commitment to offering competitive prices without compromising quality.

They understand the importance of value for money, especially in today's economic climate.

To make things even more convenient, WGC provides delivery services, saving you time and effort.

As a proud stockist of trusted Australian brands like Hume, James Hardie, Hyne Timber, and Laminex, WGC guarantees the highest quality products for your building projects.
These renowned brands are synonymous with durability, performance, and aesthetic appeal.

Located at 2 Mann Street, Proserpine, WGC welcomes both trade customers and the general public.

Their friendly and knowledgeable staff are always on hand to assist you with product selection, advice, and any questions you may have.

With convenient yard hours of 7am-4pm from Monday to Thursday, and 7am-1pm on Friday, WGC makes it easy for you to visit and explore their extensive range of building materials.

For more information or to place an order, contact WGC on 07 4952 9057 or 07 4945 1466.

Woodman Group of Companies – Building your future, one project at a time.

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The Whitsundays Writers Festival is preparing for the inaugural Love Letter to Queensland event, which is set to take place on Thursday 5 September 2024, at the Coral Sea Resort ballroom in Airlie Beach.
This unique initiative aims to highlight the deep community spirit and affection for Queensland through heartfelt stories and expressions of love.
The Love Letter to Queensland community writing competition invites individuals to share their personal stories and tributes to marvellous Queensland.
The competition offers prizes for best submissions in the categories of Adult ($500), Under 18 Years ($250), and Under 12 Years ($200) plus Highly Commended Certificates. Submissions have now closed for entries; however, the winners will be announced on Thursday 5th September.
The Love Letter to Queensland event, hosted on the Thursday will feature a stimulating lineup of notable speakers, each presenting their own love letters to Queensland.
Reading their own personal love letters aloud on the special evening is:
   • Marco Renai, awarded 2024 Queenslander of the Year, recognised for his impactful work with at-risk youth through the Men of Business program.
   • Elizabeth Hackett, Executive Chair of the Australian Adventure Tourism Group, known for her significant contributions to the tourism industry and the Whitsunday Skyway Project.
   • Dr. Chris Sarra, CEO for the Office of First Nations Engagement and Innovation, leading initiatives for youth engagement within Queensland.
   • Dr. Melissa Ashley, award-winning author of historical fiction novels and celebrated academic.
   • Karen Jacobsen, President of the Whitsunday Writers Festival, international speaker, author, and the voice behind over a billion GPS and smartphone devices.
   • Andrew Willcox MP, Federal Member for Dawson will announce and read the winning Love Letter to Queensland community writing competition entries.
With this special event fast approaching, make sure to grab your tickets for this special supper-club styled event before they sell out. Premium ticket holders receive guaranteed VIP up-front seating with personalised table service, and standard ticket holders will enjoy the event from the gallery, standing room only with limited seating available.
What: Love Letter to Queensland event
When: 6:30pm-9:00pm Thursday 6 September 2024
Where: Coral Sea Resort ballroom, Airlie Beach
Registration: Tickets are strictly limited. Standard tickets $49/$39 concession and Premium tickets $69/$59 concession include light supper and two drink vouchers followed by a cash bar.

Event Speakers:
2024 Queenslander of the Year Marco Renai
Elizabeth Hackett, Executive Chair of the Australian Adventure Tourism Group
Andrew Willcox MP, Federal Member for Dawson

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In 2023/24, a total of 353,552 people visited our aquatic facilities. Whitsunday Regional Council proudly provides the Airlie Beach Lagoon, three swimming pools and water parks across Proserpine, Bowen, and Collinsville, all free to use. These facilities offer a fantastic, cost-free way to enjoy the water, keep cool, and stay active!

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From floods to bushfires to storms and cyclones, the tropical Whitsunday region faces many extremes, so it is good news that Council has expanded our flood camera network with three new cameras in Bowen, enhancing the region’s capacity to monitor and respond to potential flood events.
 
These new installations at Queens Road, Inverdon Road and Soldiers Road will be crucial in providing real-time updates to residents and emergency services, bolstering the community’s safety and preparedness.
 
Our network of flood cameras is strategically located in high-risk areas across the Whitsunday region and will capture images that are refreshed approximately every 15 minutes.
 
The Flood Camera project began as a joint initiative under the Queensland Reconstruction Authority’s Flood Warning Infrastructure Network (FWIN), funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments, and supported by Council.
 
Since its inception, Council has committed to extending this vital network, with these three new cameras representing the latest effort to improve our flood response capabilities.
 
The new installations are a Council-led initiative, designed by our IT department, and were completed at a total cost of approximately $50,000.
 
This innovative, in-house solution builds on the successful trial of the first Council-designed system at Kelsey Creek, providing a more cost-effective alternative to the larger systems installed under the FWINP, which typically cost around $60,000 each.
 
Our growing network of flood cameras is a crucial tool for the community, helping residents and visitors make informed decisions during the wet season.
 
It’s important to remember that any flooded road can be deadly, and the condition of the road surface underneath remains unknown until the waters recede.
 
Regardless of the size of your vehicle, flood waters are dangerous for all. Always have a Plan B and equip yourself with multiple alternative routes to stay safe. Remember, once you enter flood water, you give up control of your vehicle—if it’s flooded, forget it!
 
For the latest road closures and road condition information, we encourage everyone to check Council’s Disaster Dashboard.
 
I’d like to thank the IT team for their hard work on this project and for their ongoing efforts in expanding the flood camera network that ensures the safety and well-being of all residents and visitors to our region during the wet season.

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In July, Tourism and Events Queensland kicked off a campaign called ‘Great Things Are Happening Here’, which aims to shine a spotlight on the heroes of the Great Barrier Reef.

The campaign will be run nationwide to share the stories of tourism operators’ incredible conversation initiatives across TV, YouTube, social media and through print partnerships.

The campaign will tell these stories and spread the word that one of the best things that we can do for the reef is to see it, love it and protect it. 

In support of this campaign, Tourism Whitsunday have recently been gathering information from local tourism businesses that are undertaking inspiring projects to create a meaningful difference in the health of the reef to ensure its conservation for future generations.

Some of the conservation projects include coral nurturing programs, marine debris clean-up initiatives, Crown of Thorn control projects, seagrass restoration projects and much more. All of which is happening right here on our doorstep. 

If you want to make a difference and support the health and conservation of the reef, one of the best (and most fun) ways to do this is to support the tourism operators that undertake this work, so they can continue to grow these projects and make a difference.

Have a read about some of the conservation work that is happening, look for an Eco Certification qualification and book a trip! 
 

Contributed by Laura Knipe, Marketing Manager, Tourism Whitsundays  
 

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Jade from Tourism Whitsundays took a moment to step aboard the Whitsunday Explorer by Explore Group Australia , a 2-night cruise boat offering a unique way to experience the stunning Whitsunday Islands. Although she didn't embark on the full tour, she had the opportunity to explore the ship, which left a strong impression. 

The Whitsunday Explorer is a blend of luxury and adventure, designed to provide an exceptional cruising experience. The vessel features modern, comfortable accommodations with stylish interiors that not only enhance the sense of relaxation but also ensure your utmost comfort.  

Onboard amenities include spacious lounges and dining areas that are perfect for socialising or unwinding after a day of exploration. The boat's design focuses on maximising comfort while offering a sophisticated environment.

The open decks provide ample space for taking in the stunning views and enjoying the sun. The menu, perfected by the experienced in-house Chef, offers an indulgent selection of foods that will tantalise your taste buds. 

Seeing the Whitsunday Explorer up close gave Jade a strong sense of its luxury and the quality of service it promises. For anyone seeking a leisurely yet immersive way to explore the Whitsundays, this 2-night cruise offers a premium blend of comfort and adventure, making it a standout choice for a memorable getaway. 

Currently offering 2 nights at $999 per person based on a shared twin/double basis, take your opportunity to spend the weekend floating around The Whitsundays in style! 
  
 
Contributed by Jade Yvonne, Business Development Executive, Tourism Whitsundays  

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Stuart and Nicole Morris, the managers of Azure Sea Whitsunday Resort, have been named ‘Resident Managers of the Year, Short Stay’ 2024 at the Australian Resident Managers Association (ARAMA) Awards. This distinguished award highlights their exceptional management of one of Australia’s top holiday resorts.
Stuart and Nicole had only been managing the resort for one and a half years after relocating to the region from the Gold Coast, where they operated a business at Pacific Fair as Retailers in paramedical aesthetics and skin care. When they arrived at the resort there were a lot of maintenance issues to address – the two swimming pools were falling apart, and there were glass shards that had to be picked out.
“We conducted a refurbishment of 255,000 litre pools and a spa in six weeks, (according to trades who completed the work) it should take three months!” Stuart stated.
Despite the initial setbacks, Stuart and Nicole managed to maintain strong performance by offering a reduced accommodation rate due to the absence of a pool over that period.
This is just a small example of the quick-thinking and business acumen which has led them to receiving the recognition among their peers at the prestigious awards.
Stuart and Nicole stated that what sets them apart from the rest is that they are, “conscientious individuals,” with a “desire to make a difference.”
The judges of the award stated that whilst it was very difficult to select a winner out of the exceptional candidates, this year's winners (Stuart and Nicole) tick all the boxes.
“They have greatly improved the resort’s facilities from personal efforts, won the appreciation and respect of unit owners... particularly the (Body Corporate) committee members, (and) been integral to the body corporate management.”
“They are a great example of what fresh talent and hard work can produce in this industry.”
Thanks to the vision and expertise of Stuart and Nicole, Azure Sea Whitsunday Resort has blossomed into a beautiful retreat set amidst the lush rainforest of Airlie Beach.
The 30 fully equipped apartments offer breathtaking, panoramic views of the Coral Sea and Hayman Island, providing an unparalleled escape into paradise.
The resort has lift access, secure undercover parking, unlimited Wi-Fi, and a new infinity-edge waterfall swimming pool. Azure is also just a short stroll from the beach, main street shopping and an array of fantastic restaurants.
The dedicated onsite management team is committed to creating a warm and welcoming community experience for all of Azure’s guests.
Nicole mentioned that the resort’s welcome letter features the phrase, "There are no strangers, only friends you haven't met yet,” capturing the warm and inviting atmosphere the resort aims to provide.
Azure Sea is excited to extend a warm invitation to all future guests for an unforgettable stay. You won't want to miss out on the recently refurbished infinity pools, breathtaking views, and enhanced landscapes. The resort's award-winning hosts, Stuart and Nicole, can't wait to welcome you. Check out https://www.azureseawhitsunday.com/ for more information on how to book your stay at Azure Sea Whitsunday Resort.

Stuart and Nicole Morris stand proud with their award

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On August 15 the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry revealed an ambitious economic vision for the region's next 20 to 30 years.

Developed with insights from over 130 local business voices, the plan envisions Bowen becoming a leader in agriculture, aquaculture, and marine services, while Collinsville focuses on mining technology and tourism.

Proserpine and Cannonvale are set to evolve into key residential and commercial hubs, and Airlie Beach aims to enhance its reputation as a premier tourist destination.

The Chamber emphasises the importance of political leadership, strategic development, infrastructure investment, and workforce evolution to achieve this vision.

Chamber President Allan Milostic and Mayor Ry Collins
Trevor Rees and Craig Turner
Fiona Erquiaga and Bernadette Porter
Tanya Hardy and Jade Richardson
Chamber Liaison of Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce & Industry Julia Evans
Mayor Ry Collins
Chamber President Allan Milostic
Justin Butler and Tim Langford

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Community-minded individuals who would like to ensure the continuation of one of the most iconic institutions in the state are invited to attend a public meeting this Saturday.

The Queensland Country Women’s Association (QCWA) has been empowering women since 1922, across Queensland's regional and remote communities and last year the Proserpine/Whitsundays Branch celebrated its 100th birthday.

In a sad turn of events, this beloved arm of the state-wide institution is now without leaders and is currently looking for a secretary, treasurer and president in order to continue.

Current members of QCWA Proserpine/Whitsundays have dedicated many years to participating in the group and volunteering countless hours, but these selfless women have now decided they need to take a step back, hoping other proactive community members will now step up to the roles.

Hoping to fill those positions QCWA is hosting a public meeting on Saturday 31 August at 10am. At the public meeting, members will be informing attendees about what CWA do and what it stands for.

At their previous public meeting, they saw good numbers and with this upcoming meeting, they are hoping that someone will be confident enough to become an executive member.

Current member Robyn Creighton said that all existing members will offer the new executives their upmost support.

“We will be giving them lots of help, anybody that wants to put up their hand we won’t be abandoning them! We will be here to help them,” added Robyn.

“It's been going for 102 years; it would be a bit shame for it to close.

“We love CWA and everything it’s brought us, friendship and confidence. We would really love to see it continue with some office bearers.”

QCWA is great for making new connections and friends, sharing knowledge and learning new skills, or influencing the unique needs of our local community and ultimately, improving the lives of women and families.
 
To avoid this loss to our community, go to the next public meeting at the Cannonvale Neighbourhood Centre at 10am and put your hand up.

What: QCWA Public Meeting
Where: Cannonvale Neighbourhood Centre
When: Saturday 31 August at 10am

QCWA Proserpine/Whitsundays Branch, Photo supplied

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The highly anticipated ‘Don River Dash’ will soon be taking place in Bowen.

This multi-terrain off-road event is a thrill-seekers paradise and a huge crowd attraction with spectators able to watch the action from the banks of the dry Don River bed where all the action takes place.

Dirt flies, motors roar as the racers all vie to complete the course in the fastest time possible.

A bucket list item for many adrenaline-junkies, the race attracts motorists from all over the country.

Event Secretary Wanita Sparr said this race is as exciting to watch as it is to participate in.

“It is an endurance event, and it's very difficult, very challenging and a technical race,” she said.

Burdekin Off-roaders President Michael Marson said it is a unique race.

“It's a very unique in Australia and there are not many events that run the same format under those conditions,” said Michael.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said the Don River Dash creates a great economic boost for the region.

“People travel from long distances to compete as well as to watch this event,” she said.

“We are always very busy at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre over the Don River Dash weekend and many of the visitors stay and explore the wider Whitsundays region after the event has finished.”

What: Don River Dash
Where: Don River, Bowen
When: Friday 6 September – Sunday 8 September

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Motorbike hitting the track during the Don River Dash, Photo supplied

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The arrival of whales in the Whitsundays at this time of year is a big drawcard for tourists as well as locals who never tire of watching them as they move about our waters. Their presence is not a new phenomenon nor is the delight of observing these magnificent creatures.
The “Proserpine Guardian” of Saturday 30 July 1938 published the following story “AQUATIC DOINGS AT HAYMAN ISLAND”.
“Two immense whales decided to inspect the “June” as she lay at anchor off Bait Reef, coming within some thirty feet of the boat before sounding. Some good photographs were secured of the sea “beasts’’. Whales are swimming about everywhere now. Mr. G. Stephenson, managed to hook one when trolling, accidentally of course, but it provided a lot of amusement to lookers-on before his line came free.”
A report on Friday 24 August 1945 in the CANNON VALLEY NOTES stated – “Whales have abounded in Whitsunday Passage during the past two weeks. Quite a number, of calves were noticed among the several schools observed by our correspondent. Tourist traffic, due no doubt to school holidays, has been very heavy recently. 
And in the “Guardian” Friday 12 May 1950 the headline read “PILOT WHALES”.
“A large school of Pilot whales, or better known as Black Fish whales, passed through Hook Passage off the coast of Proserpine last Sunday. Mr. M. E. MacDougall told the "Guardian" yesterday that the whales were in groups of three and four about 100 yards apart as far as one could see in all directions. The whales seen in Hook Passage were about 15 feet long, and they were travelling south. This is the species of whale which sometimes commits suicide. If the leader goes ashore all the others do likewise. Such incidents have occurred in New Zealand and more recently in Victoria, where 60 whales were stranded on a beach.”
WHALES DIE ON BEACH (“Proserpine Guardian” July 30 1976)

The stranding of whales on beaches is not uncommon. In 1976, early risers on the morning of July 24 were excited to observe a large school of whales tossing around in the water just off the beach. Eventually two of them were separated from the school and became stranded on the sand at high tide. The theory is that a sick whale was driven from the group and followed toward the shore by its mate.

The sick whale died very quickly but the active one lived several hours, during which time “Kingy” Hurst from Wilson’s Beach and others made several attempts to encourage and to drag it out to sea. At one stage, they succeeded in pushing the whale into the receding water but “it immediately turned and dashed back onto the beach. The beautiful creature was struggling, becoming more and more distressed and its wellbeing was deteriorating. Eventually, it became so sick that it was decided to put it out of its misery with a rifle.”

The whales, both six metres long, were identified as false killer whales. They were buried above the highwater mark but not before James Cook University representatives had procured some body parts for research.

Recent history of these mammals beaching has shown that rescued whales will continue to repeatedly beach themselves.

Today, regulations have been introduced stipulating the proximity of boats to these creatures – for the protection of not only these magnificent mammals who visit our waters to give birth but also the people witnessing the spectacle they present.    

Story courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum and photo courtesy Mrs May Davy.

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A plan to build a brand-new satellite hospital in Mackay has just been announced by the state government, when Premier Steven Miles visited Mackay on Monday.

Building on the success of similar facilities in South East Queensland, this hospital will provide free, walk-in treatment for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries from 8am to 10pm, helping to reduce pressure on local emergency departments. It’s a major coup for Mackay, as it will become the first of its kind to be built outside of SEQ.

Premier Steven Miles and Health Minister Shannon Fentiman joined the candidate for
the seat of Mackay, Belinda Hassan to announce that, if elected in October, this health infrastructure investment will not only bring better healthcare closer to home but also create vital healthcare jobs for the Mackay community.

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Queensland Premier Steven Miles, Health Minister Shannon Fentiman, and Mackay Labor candidate Belinda Hassan announced the plan for a new Satellite Hospital in Mackay, promising better healthcare access. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Labor’s $78.3 Million Investment To Build New Satellite Hospital In Mackay

Premier of Queensland Steven Miles said, “Our hospitals are under pressure – exacerbated by the rapid growth of our state and the decline of primary health care.

“My government has proven that publicly owned, free Satellite Hospitals work in reducing
pressure on our Emergency Departments and giving families greater access to care when
and where they need it.

“This will help reduce pressure at the Mackay Hospital and create good local jobs for
healthcare workers,” Premier Miles said.

The Mackay Satellite Hospital will include a Minor Injury and Illness Clinic, which will open from 8am to 10pm and provide free treatment for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries like fevers, ear aches, cuts, burns and broken bones, and is run by doctors and senior nurses.

It will also offer specialist outpatient services, specifically targeting the needs of the local
community. That could include renal dialysis, chemotherapy, oral healthcare and mental
health support.

The announcement follows the success of seven Satellite Hospitals delivered across South
East Queensland – which have already provided critical care to more than 160,000 patients
since their staged opening.

Labor Candidate for Mackay Belinda Hassan commented on the success of the initiative and said she’s proud to be part of delivering on the government’s commitment for better healthcare closer to home.

“Having seen how successful the satellite hospital program has been, I have been
personally advocating for one in our community here in Mackay.

“The free Minor Injury and Illness Clinic, which will be part of the satellite hospital, will provide families with free healthcare for a range of things like fevers, coughs and colds and even broken bones,” Ms Hassan said.

“Locals have told me how challenging it is to access primary care in our community, and this new facility will deliver urgent care for local families without the need to visit the emergency department.”

Minister for Health, Mental Health and Ambulance Services Shannon Fentiman also commented on the success of the initiative, stating that, “We’ve heard so many stories from people who love their local satellite hospital, and how they’re providing savings for households and families who need urgent access to minor healthcare.

“Not only do they look after people with minor injuries, but they also provide access to vital
services such as dialysis and mental health support closer to home,” Minister Fentiman said.

The satellite hospital program has been proven to alleviate pressure on local hospitals –
with up to a 26 per cent drop in less serious, non-emergency presentations to hospitals
located close to a Satellite Hospital.

The Mackay Satellite Hospital will be delivered through a $78.3 million investment, funded by borrowings.

“We know that all Queenslanders deserve world class healthcare – no matter where they live,” Minister Fentiman added.

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A satellite hospital in Mackay will offer free walk-in treatment for non-life-threatening conditions and specialist outpatient services, following the successful model of similar hospitals in South East Queensland. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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