The recent Super Story Time event at Mackay Regional Council Libraries brought together local families for a morning of storytelling, imagination, and fun, celebrating young readers and their grown-ups alike.

The library remains a welcoming space where knowledge thrives and all individuals are encouraged to explore, learn, and grow together.

With a diverse calendar of activities and programs on offer, residents are invited to visit the library website or download the Mackay Libraries app to discover upcoming events and make the most of these valuable community resources.

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If you’re old enough to remember the jingle about the Mackay City Heart, you probably remember Centrepoint Arcade too. Maybe you blew your cash on a Walk Like an Egyptian cassette from the record store in there. Before the mega extension at Caneland, the City Heart was full and buzzing. But that wasn’t the only change that shifted the scene. The rise of online shopping transformed how we buy, the pandemic kept many of us home more than ever, and those shifts all took their toll on the heart of the city.

We got the heart of the city (clap, clap)

Nostalgic Facebook groups overflow with black-and-white photos—ladies in gloves, strolling the footpaths in their Sunday best. Folks fondly remember cafés with plastic curtains, dances in Catholic halls, the bands that played them, and department stores with chocolate escalators (OK, maybe that one’s just me).

But while we’re busy reminiscing, the City Heart is still here. And it’s changing.

CBDs across Australia are shifting. The main drag is no longer the automatic centre of gravity. We see boarded up shops, and “for lease” signs. Online shopping has exploded. International chains have arrived. And then there’s parking.

But here’s the thing — parking is not the real problem. It is just the easiest to complain about.

The “parking problem” isn’t just the thing Mackay people like to complain about... Walk down any main street in regional Australia and someone will tell you parking is killing their CBD. But we’ll all happily trek the length of a shopping centre carpark without a second thought. If you park a couple of blocks away in the City Heart, you might run into someone you know, discover a new business, or just enjoy being part of a living street. That’s how community happens—by being in it.

What stings is this: we mourn the empty buildings but forget to cheer for the new businesses having a go. We scroll through memories of old floats and parades, but don’t turn up for the events happening now.

We all miss the buzz of the City Heart.

There’s plenty of love for how it used to be—but bringing that energy back means more than a walk down memory lane.

At the Chamber, we do everything we can to get the word out: socials, emails, posters, word of mouth. And still, we hear it— “I didn’t know it was on.”

But the truth is people are trying. New businesses are opening, events are happening, and there’s real passion to keep the City Heart alive. What it needs now is more of us showing up.

So here’s how you can help:

Like. Share. Tag a friend. Talk about it. Show up.

The City Heart doesn’t need more commentary—it needs community. You are not making an impact on the CBD in the comments section—real progress needs real people showing up.

If you want to see it thrive, be part of the change.

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Working to your strengths is personally empowering and enables you to present your best self, whether in your work or personal life.

We each have a combination of qualities, talent and skills that are unique to us. To work to your strengths, you first have to identify them. For some this is an easy list; for others this focus on self is more challenging. Here are some ways to identify your strengths.

Check in with your colleagues and trusted advisors/friends, and ask them what they see as your top 3 strengths (you can ask for more – 3 seems a good number).
Spend some time personally reflecting on those activities and tasks that you are drawn to and enjoy, then write up the list – what may be a natural tendency for you may be more difficult for others.
Cross check these lists for common themes on your strengths.
There are also professional tools available to assist you in identifying your strengths.

When you focus on and work to your strengths, it builds confidence and reinforces self-belief. You will feel more engaged and make the most of opportunities to show your best self. When you do something you enjoy, you will be more productive and overall add more value in your work or organisational context. You benefit, and so do others.

In a career context, when you are working to your strengths, you will look for opportunities that align to your suite of strengths. You are more likely to be successful and success builds confidence, and improves your performance. This in turn will allow you to leverage your strengths for further growth and personal development, as well as build your skills base.

Strengths are not stagnant. You can expand and refine your strengths and become even more effective. We also need to know when to ‘regulate’ our strengths with a good dose of self-awareness. Knowing when and how to best use our strengths takes it to another level. A strength used inappropriately or overused can be a ‘weakness’ – e.g. being an effective organiser versus taking over/bossy and not letting others develop.

Knowing and working to your strengths also feeds into self-worth and truly knowing your value – the unique combination that you contribute - to enable you to flourish and inspire.

For personal and dedicated assistance with identifying your strengths and using this to further your career - contact me at powerup@careerforceaustralia.com.au or 0409 894 131 to learn more.

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Australians today are navigating increasingly complex financial terrain. From managing mortgages, superannuation, and insurance, to preparing for retirement and developing effective tax strategies.

The financial decisions most people face is significant and often overwhelming. Add the weight of a cost-of-living crisis and it’s no surprise that many people feel stretched, uncertain and unsure where to start.

Yet, financial advice is still widely seen as a luxury, something reserved for the wealthy or retired, something that is left to deal with later in life. But the truth is, the greatest cost may come from not seeking advice at all.

At its core, financial advice is about helping you make informed, strategic decisions that support your goals and improve your long-term wellbeing. This may involve setting clear priorities, structuring your cash flow and debt, building investment portfolios, optimising superannuation and tax strategies, protecting your income through insurance, and planning for life’s transitions, whether that’s buying a home, changing careers, or retiring.

But the technical side is just the beginning. Where quality financial advice really proves its worth is helping people stay on track when emotions rise. Because let’s face it, we’re not always rational with money. We tend to panic in downturns, overspend when confidence is high, delay important decisions out of fear and underestimate the future costs of inaction.

An adviser’s real value often reveals itself not in calm times, but in moments of uncertainty, when clarity, structure, and an unbiased view are most needed.

Research by Vanguard and Russell Investments shows financial advisers can add around 3–4% in annual value, not by picking the perfect stock, but by helping clients avoid emotionally driven decisions.

That value compounds significantly over time.

Financial Advisers are here to ask the right questions, challenge knee-jerk reactions and help you stay focused on the big picture, not the headlines or hype.

Still, many Australians attempt to manage their finances alone and understandably so, we’ve all tried a bit of DIY in the hope of saving some money. But much like fixing plumbing or rewiring a house, what seems simple on the surface often reveals unexpected complexity.

In hindsight, many realise the time, risk, and stress would have been avoided by engaging a professional from the outset.

Financial advice isn’t about complexity. It’s about creating a strategy tailored to your life, with someone in your corner to keep you accountable and confident, especially when life throws you off track.

In a world full of noise and competing priorities, advice offers something rare: clarity, control, and peace of mind.

And when you consider what’s really at stake, your lifestyle, your security, your future — the real question isn’t can you afford to get advice?

It’s... can you afford not to?

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Friday 20th June

Crochet & Conversation
9am
Join a welcoming morning of crochet, coffee, and conversation with Northern Beaches locals at Beachfront Bar & Restaurant on Bucasia Esplanade. Bring your own tools or borrow from the communal box. All skill levels welcome—just look for the yarn to find the table. Connection and creativity guaranteed.
Bucasia Beachfront Bar and Restaurant

Free Friday Guided Walks
10am
Join a Friday Guided Walk at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens and discover the unique plants and features of this beautiful space. Led by experienced Gardens Guides, the walks run every Friday (excluding public holidays) from 10am to 11am at a relaxed pace. Meet at the Visitor Information Centre opposite the café. Don’t forget your hat, water bottle and comfy shoes. A free and informative outing for nature lovers.
Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens

LIVE Music
6-9pm
Enjoy LIVE music every Friday at Ocean International – it’s a performance you won’t want to miss! Pizzas & tapas available on the deck! Call 4957 2044 to make your booking!
Ocean International

Bob’s Your Auntie
7.30pm – 20-21 June
Bob’s Your Auntie” is a cheeky cross-dressing comedy where secrets, stilettos, and a suspicious lotto ticket collide. When Bob lands in a tight spot, a pair of heels and a hastily invented ‘auntie’ become his only way out. Expect laughs, lashes, and plenty of leg.
Kucom Theatre

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
7.30pm - 20-22 June
Get ready for a hilarious, heartwarming, and high-energy musical that’s taken audiences by storm! Join six quirky kids as they compete for the spelling championship of a lifetime—sharing laugh-out-loud stories, facing made-up words, and hoping to avoid the dreaded "ding" of elimination. With catchy songs, witty dialogue, and a touch of audience participation, this award-winning show is one unforgettable ride! Winner of the Tony & Drama Desk Awards for Best Book Directed by Emma Goding Don't miss the fun, spelling has never been this entertaining! Book your tickets via  cqcm.sales.ticketsearch.com
Central Queensland Conservatorium Of Music, Ooralea

Saturday 21st June

High Tide Festival - Mackay
1pm
High Tide Festival returns to Bluewater Quay for a celebration of beer, food, and live music on the banks of the Pioneer River. This free, all-ages event features performances by Brad Butcher, Heath and Leyon Milner, Brendan Radford and more, alongside a line-up of local and international brewers.
Bluewater Quay

The Harbour Moon Market
3.30pm
Soak up the sunset at the Harbour Moon Markets on 21 June, set on the grass in front of the surf lifesaving club. Enjoy handmade local goods, face painting, meat raffles and more. Book a table at the restaurant or bring a blanket for a relaxed family afternoon by the sea.
Mackay Harbour

Family Boogie Night
5.30pm
Get ready to hit the dance floor at Family Boogie Night on Saturday 21 June. This all-ages, drug and alcohol-free event offers a fun evening of music, games, and connection. Bring your own dinner or enjoy a sausage sizzle—everyone’s welcome, no matter your style or age. Let the boogie begin.
Andergrove Community Hall

Catherine McAuley College Mystery Dinner
6pm
Step into Shakespearean Verona for an evening of intrigue at Catherine McAuley College’s Murder Mystery Masquerade Ball. Guests will enjoy a three-course meal, live entertainment and a dramatic twist—murder is afoot. Dress in disguise, don a mask, and prepare for a night where nothing is quite as it seems. 18+ event.
239 Nebo Road

Sunday 22nd June

CASA Sunday BBQ
11am
Everyone’s welcome at CASA’s weekly sausage sizzle, held every Sunday at the Blue Water Quay BBQ area. Enjoy a free bite to eat, connect with others, and bring a friend along for a relaxed and friendly start to your Sunday. Just bring a smile—everything else is sorted.
Blue Water Quay

Live Music At The Pinnacle
11.30am-3pm
Enjoy live music from 11:30 am to 3pm! Indulge in delicious pies, crumbed steak, and in-house sweets for a perfect day out with great food and tunes.
Pinnace Family Hotel

Mackay Country & Western Club Family Afternoon
1.30pm
New artists are welcome, with a band available to provide backing for those who wish to perform. The event commences at 1.30pm, with an admission fee of $5. Everyone is welcome. For more information, contact Charlie on 0408 776 564.
Senior Citizens Hall, Macalister Street, Mackay

Monday 23rd June

Mackay NAIDOC Community Committee Meeting
12.30pm
The Mackay NAIDOC Management Committee invites all community members to attend the upcoming NAIDOC Community Committee Meeting at the Jubilee Community Centre. This is an opportunity to connect, contribute ideas, and support the planning of this year’s NAIDOC celebrations. Everyone is welcome.
Jubilee Community Centre

Tuesday 24th June

Northern Beaches Community Playgroup – Hall Session
9am
Enjoy a morning of play and connection at Northern Beaches Community Hall. Special guests include a Child Health Nurse offering weigh and measure checks—bring your red book. Activities start at 9:15am with crafts, sensory play, and storytime. A $3 donation per family supports consumables; children under 12 months attend free. Remember to bring hats, water, sunscreen, and morning tea. Membership with Play Matters and arrival check-in are required. Families are responsible for their children at all times.
Northern Beaches Community Hall

Thursday 26th June

Mackay Get It Together - Better Housing Together
10.30am
Better Together Housing supports women over 55 exploring shared housing options. Gatherings offer casual meet-ups, connection, and occasional guest speakers. Join the Mackay Get-it-together for coffee and conversation. Register to attend or contact Project Worker Lauren at 0419 179 495 or lauren@gwcommunities.org.au. More info is available on the Better Together Housing website.
Gordan White Library

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A man in his 30s is in critical condition after being shot in the shoulder at a rural property in Devereux Creek, west of Mackay.

Police and emergency services were called to the scene on Devil’s Pool Road shortly before 10:30am.

Upon arrival, officers found the man with a gunshot wound and he was quickly transported to Mackay Base Hospital. A Queensland Ambulance spokesperson confirmed the injuries were life-threatening.

Authorities have assured there is no immediate threat to the public. Investigations are ongoing, with no further details released at the time of publication.

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When people need something important done, something that really matters, they tend not to simply find out who offers the cheapest quote and go with that option.

If someone owns a classic car, for example, you will never hear them do a ring-around of mechanics or spray painter shops to see who is the cheapest.

A conversation you’ll never hear at a pub: “Hey fellas you know that beautiful 1968 HK GTS Monaro of mine that I’ve had forever, well it needs a paint job and I rang around and found someone who’ll do it for hundreds of dollars less than everyone else. Booked it straight in.”

When a professional sportsman has a knee injury their focus is not on arranging the cheapest surgeon to do the job.

Matildas captain Sam Kerr injured her knee a while back and this was not the conversation at the time.

Matildas football manager: “Sam, we’ve rung around and we’ve found a really cheap orthopedic surgeon in Mt Isa who reckons he can get you in for surgery next week. It’ll be thousands of dollars cheaper than the other options.”

Sam: “Sounds great, book me in.”

That conversation will never happen because the team and the player know there is a price to pay for going with the cheapest option.

It’s not how much you pay, it’s how much it hurts the player and the club to go with someone who is not going to create the best possible result.

It’s the same for the owner of the HK Monaro. The car is too important for the cheapest option and you will probably lose money in the end.

Which is why it’s so odd that, in real estate, you will often get a call along these lines: “Gidday mate, I’m planning to sell my house and I’m just ringing real estate agencies to see who can offer me the best deal. What’s your commission?”

Now I know that the cost is important. Agents get paid well and the cost of commission is absolutely something that a seller needs to factor in. There is no reason for someone to charge over-the-top commission that’s higher than everyone else. That’s a rip-off.

Agents have to justify their commission, produce a result that means the investment in commission is a good one.

The truth is that the person who does a ring-around to find the cheapest agent, usually ends up with the person who has one trick up their sleeve; low commission. A bit like the cheap spray painter and the cheap surgeon. Not very good but cheaper than everyone else.

And the problem is that saving money at the start can cost you in the end. You can save $1000 on commission but lose $30,000 on the sale price because the stupid agent didn’t know how to create competition for your property and negotiate the best price.

Good work by the agent can produce a result that means the difference in commission between that agent and the cheaper one is not only irrelevant but completely justified.

I recently sold a three-bedroom, one bathroom house in Beaconsfield with no pool and no shed for $590,000 after getting 38 groups of buyers at the open house and receiving eight offers on the property.

The sellers were hoping for something in the low $500,000s and comparable sales reflected that expectation.

The thing is that the sellers were not thinking about whether my commission was $1000 higher than someone cheaper, they were thinking about the result.

I know I am not the only agent to get better-than-expected results in this market and I mention this one, not to brag, but to simply illustrate that cheaper isn’t always better.

Well, maybe to brag a bit. Oh, shut up! At least I didn’t start off with it!

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The closure of the Caneland Central Post Office has sparked confusion and disbelief across the region, with residents and community leaders describing the move as short-sighted and totally unfair.

Federal Member for Dawson and Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability Andrew Willcox said he was advised the branch will shut its doors on 18 July, without any public consultation or clear reasoning from Australia Post.

“We don’t have an explanation, but it’s a decision made by some faceless, nameless person down south who doesn’t understand the impact this will have on local residents,” Mr Willcox said.

“The people most affected are the most vulnerable – our elderly, people with disabilities, young people without transport. We don’t have the public transport networks like the city. People down south just don’t get it.”

He said his office had already received dozens of calls and emails from concerned locals.

“This is more than just a post office, it’s a vital service for the community of Mackay and
surrounds.

“For many locals, especially older residents and those who are living with a disability, it’s their only practical way to access mail, pay bills, and stay connected,” he said.

“This is another attack on rural and regional Australia, and it’s simply not good enough.”

Long-time Mackay local Margaret Edwards, who represents a local seniors group with over 400 members, said many people had reached out to her in frustration.

“Mums and bubs, people with disabilities — they’re all affected by this closure,” she said.

“Canelands is the biggest shopping centre in the Mackay region — I’m sure of that — and now it won’t have a post office? It makes no sense.”

“Transport’s a big issue. Not everyone has a car. You’re talking taxis, buses, Uber, community transport — that’s an extra cost to them, or to us, the taxpayers.”

“I buy things there, post things there — now I’ve got to go somewhere else. It’s disgraceful. The worst decision anyone could’ve made.”

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The sudden decision to close the Caneland Central Post Office on 18 July has been slammed as “disgraceful,” with locals and leaders outraged over the lack of consultation and the impact on Mackay’s most vulnerable residents. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Honouring History, Celebrating Service

By Cr Heath Paton

As a councillor, who was born and raised here in Mackay, it is important to me to not only aid in the growth of our region but also protect and promote our vast catalogue of past accomplishments.

Mackay has such a wealth of history and accolades, and it’s imperative for a region to acknowledge the pillars of our community.

Scattered throughout our footprint are numerous monuments and plaques commemorating events and people who helped shape our community.

It’s no secret that Mackay has a very strong military representation throughout our history and undoubtedly Jubilee Park is perhaps the centrepiece of this history. The park is home to the heritage-listed World War I Cenotaph with monuments for World War II, the 2nd/12th Infantry Battalion and National Serviceman’s Memorial, Vietnam War Memorial and the ANZAC Walk, which displays images from World War I to present day.

It’s exciting to note that Mackay Regional Council are now currently working with Mackay RSL subbranch to create another monument in Jubilee Park, this time to commemorate the veterans who served in the Australian Defence Force from 1975 onwards.

These memorials and plaques at Jubilee Park are more than monuments, they are an opportunity to reflect, educate and bolster community pride.

It’s crucial as a community that we honour those who served for us, and those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation and fellow countrymen.

These historical touchstones link the past to the present and offer opportunities to remember and pay respect – not only on days of great significance such as Anzac Day and Remembrance Day.

Through this collaborative effort we are looking forward to delivering a timeless and fitting monument that our community can be proud of.

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Mackay Careers Expo

Mackay’s Careers Expo is back for its third year, offering an extraordinary opportunity for school leavers, recent graduates, and career-changers to gain invaluable insights into potential career paths.

Held at the Mackay Showgrounds on Thursday 7 August, this free event is a must-attend for anyone looking to launch a new career, upskill, or transition into a different industry.

Explore Endless Opportunities

This year, the expo features an impressive array of exhibitors. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with highly qualified representatives from prestigious organisations, with many offering opportunities across the nation.

The Mackay Careers Expo isn't just for students; it’s an inclusive event that welcomes parents, experienced workers, and anyone considering a career change.

Why Attend?

The current economic climate means more people are gaining an awareness of the importance of gaining new skills or upgrading existing skills, to open opportunities for advancement as one way to combat the rising cost of living.

Here’s what you can expect:

Expert Advice: Get insights from industry leaders on how to apply for courses, the costs involved, financial support options, and the qualifications required.

Career Options: Learn about current career and employment opportunities, trainee and apprenticeship programs, and options for adults to upskill and retrain.

Networking: Connect with professionals and educational providers who can offer guidance and support for your career journey.

The Mackay Careers Expo is an event that no one can afford to miss if they are serious about taking control of their future. Admission to the expo is free, making it accessible to everyone who is keen on making informed career decisions.

This event is more than just a career expo; it’s a gateway to your future.

For more information, visit careersevent.com and click on Mackay Careers Expo.

What: Mackay Careers Expo
When: Thursday 7th August
Where: Mackay Showgrounds
Admission: FREE

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Hi there,

Hope you’re keeping well and enjoying this crisp, cool breeze while it lasts…because let’s be honest, we’ll all be complaining about the humidity again soon!

Did you make it to the show and grab a classic Dagwood dog or a showbag or two?

I popped in on Tuesday, bundled up in a warm coat and boots, bracing for the mud – but to my surprise it wasn’t too bad!

On page 10, you’ll find a beautiful story that reflects what makes our region so special – locals looking after each other, always ready to lend a hand.

And on page 28, I was thrilled to include a mention of local author Kaaren Sephton, who I had the pleasure of interviewing recently. Her book Shining a Light: Women of Mackay, beautifully honours the remarkable women who helped shape our region – many of whom history deemed ‘invisible.’

What stays with me each day is a deep sense of gratitude. So let this be your reminder to pause when you can, enjoy the simple things in life, and never take a single day for granted.

For me, it’s a quiet moment with coffee in hand, or a burst of laughter shared with my husband at the end of a long day.

And if today feels heavy, and you're struggling to find something to be thankful for - remember, that simply waking up this morning is a gift.

Cherish every moment while you can.

“Let all that you do be done in love” – 1 Corinthians 16:14

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The first humpback whales of the season were sighted on Friday 6th June, breaching between Penitecost Island and Suprise Rock, just south of Whitsunday and Hamilton Islands

It’s exciting and we are privileged to have them visit our waters to court, mate, give birth and rear their calves.  This is why the Whitsundays are a Whale Heritage Area.

The whales have to rely on their energy reserves until they return to their feeding ground in the Antarctic. Mothers will already loose a third of their body weight producing milk, feeding and protecting their calf.  If they loose too much weight by not resting enough, both the health of the mother and calf can be compromised.
It’s important to their continued survival that their ‘nurseries’ are free from any harassment.

Everyone using the waters of the Marine Park, have a responsibility to help protect whales and dolphins and to keep safe distances from them.

Interactions are on the whales terms and it’s possible to have amazing experiences still following the regulations.

Anywhere in the GREAT BARRIER REEF MARINE PARK
🐋Prohibited vessels (i.e. jetskis, parasails, hovercraft, hydrofoils, wing-in-ground effect craft and motorised diving aids such as underwater scooters) must not approach closer than ‘300 metres’ to a whale or dolphin.
🐋No vessels can approach within 300 metres of a calf.
🐋Whales and dolphins must not be approached within 30 degrees in front or behind.

When in the WHITSUNDAY WHALE PROTECTION AREA there are some additional rules in relation to whales.

The boundary of the WHALE PROTECTION AREA is the dashed line, which has been highlighted in yellow on the zoning map, or the darker blue area on the other map.

🐋A vessel must not approach closer than ‘300 metres’ to a whale.
🐋Negligible wake within ‘500 metres’ to a whale.
🐋A helicopter must not approach below 2000 feet or within 1000 metres of a whale.

If you are unsure of the Whale Protection Area boundary, please pick up a zoning map from a Marina office.

If you see anyone doing the wrong thing please take photos of the vessel and registration, and report all Marine Park regulation offences to 1800 380 048
or via the Reef Authority website by completing an incident report form:
https://www2.gbrmpa.gov.au/help/report-an-incident

To find out more about special whale events and information on whales in the Whitsundays, join the WHALES OF THE WHITSUNDAYS Facebook page; or go to https://www.whitsundaymarine.org/projects

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

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We have a range of free and exciting children’s activities across our regional libraries for the upcoming school holidays! From craft workshops to storytelling and everything in between,
there’s something for kids of all ages!

Libraries are the perfect place to relax, have fun, and stay connect during the holidays - and membership is always free!
For more information, head to Whitsunday Regional Libraries website.

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Hi Everyone,

Ruth 2 Reef is back after a short break, and I’m thrilled to bring you a special edition packed with exciting environmental stories.

During the pause, I had the incredible opportunity to take part in the Coral Nurture Program which is a brilliant initiative dedicated to coral restoration. Last Sunday, therefore, I spent the day scuba diving and planting new coral on the Great Barrier Reef alongside an amazing team. It was a real pinch me moment, and you can read all about the experience on page 25 of this issue.

In other exciting news, the first whale sightings of the season have been reported right here in the Whitsundays, And if you’re curious about the underwater world, the Whitsunday Conservation Council is sharing fascinating insights into the mating strategies of reef fish.

For those eager to learn even more about the sea, one of my biggest inspirations, David Attenborough, has just released a brand new documentary called Oceans — a fantastic and eye-opening watch!

Happy reading,

Ruth

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Planting Hope on the Great Barrier Reef

By Ruth Puddefoot

I shuffle myself onto the edge of the boat, and my Dive Manager and I look at each other before hurtling ourselves backwards into the warm Whitsunday waters. Our supplies are handed to us off the boat, and we fade into the blue.

Suddenly, we are engulfed in a kaleidoscope of colour; little sea goldies begin to inquisitively inspect us as they dart in front of our masks, then return to feed on zooplankton near the soft and hard coral colonies. The only sounds we can hear are the ‘shh’s' from our regulators and the peaceful clicks from our marine life neighbours. Suddenly, the coral starts to fade, and we come to an eerily emptier part of the reef, and the reality of the damage sets in.

It is the beginning of winter, and I’m taking part in a coral restoration project courtesy of the Coral Nurture program. We have been out on the boat all morning, the air is crisp, and the water is like glass as we pass the Whitsundays archipelago. The distance between us and our dive spot on Blue Pearl Bay that fringes the northwestern side of Hayman Island closes. It is a quaint little bay, with towering, vegetated slopes overhanging the secluded beach, enveloped in coral, that contrasts with the famous turquoise waters for which the Whitsundays are renowned.

Growing up on David Attenborough documentaries, including his 2015 series ‘The Great Barrier Reef,’ and learning of the threats the reef faces, I had always wanted to see the reef with my own eyes. As headlines about its health circulate, a question emerges: what is truly happening beneath the surface, and who is stepping up to safeguard the reef? Then, my opportunity to find out arose, I was invited to join a coral restoration project.

“The first dive will consist of carefully removing corals from nursery frames, classifying each by species and photographing them for the research team, alongside cleaning the frames and removing algae and drupella,” our PADI Dive Manager of the project, Augusto Cazón (or Gus to me!), explained. “The second dive, wearing protective gloves, we will plant corals in their new homes.”

“Who wants to go first?”

Gus is a diver on Kiana and one of the few instructors who have been offered the opportunity to look after the coral nurseries the Coral Nurture Program has built. After hearing these words, I could barely contain my excitement and was eager to get a first look at the coral nursery; however, I decided to let my friend and park ranger Daniela Lo Surdo go first. Blue Pearl Bay has experienced a decline in hard coral cover; however, the full extent and causes of this decline remain unclear. Some reports suggest a significant reduction, while other research points to recent fluctuations and even signs of recovery. Gus explained that the reef here has been shaped by significant events, including Cyclone Ului, Cyclone Debbie and episodes of coral bleaching.

While the pair suited up and got in the water, I started with the paperwork, measuring the water depth, recording their time in the water, and keeping an eye out for their bubbles to make sure everything was going smoothly.

They then returned, fully energised from what they had just experienced. After a quick lunch stop, it was my turn, and I could not wait to get stuck in. Once underwater, the process was meticulous: hammering the registered coral clips into the ground, brushing the surrounding area, and then placing the corals in their new homes while surgeon, parrot, and clown fish swam around us erratically, inspecting their brand-new ecosystem.

While I was underwater, all I could think about was how we were all contributing to something much larger. To us, it is planting corals, but to the fish, it’s the start of a whole new home and ecosystem, learning that the worlds biggest coral survey confirms a decline in the great barrier reef, makes me sad to think that what I experienced today, might not be there in the future. Therefore, while the reef’s future is uncertain, we must support localised programs like the Coral Nurture Program to give it the best chance at recovery, as they provide valuable insights into reef management and strategies for future inventions.

The project wrapped up on Monday, 16 June, and throughout the initiative, more than 2,500 new corals were planted at Blue Pearl Bay.

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How you can help protect the Reef:
   • Be a sustainable tourist: avoid touching or stepping on coral,and snorkel carefully
   • Reduce plastic use and dispose of waste responsibly
   • Buy sustainably sourced seafood
   • Educate yourself and others about reef conservation
   • Use reef-safe sunscreen
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For more information, visit: https://www.coralnurtureprogram.org/

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Coral nursery at Blue Pearl Bay
Coral nursery at Blue Pearl Bay
Ruth Puddefoot planting a coral in its new home
A fish being inquisitive while watching us work
Names of Corals at Blue Pearl Bay
Augusto Cazón and Ruth Puddefoot about to start planting corals
Ruth Puddefoot infront of Coral Nurture Program Sign
Augusto Cazón and Ruth Puddefoot commencing the dive.
Dani Lo Surdo about to begin first dive.
Augusto Cazón and Ruth Puddefoot after finishing the planting process.

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