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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As we gear up for a special day this weekend, it’s a time to honour the fathers, step-dads, granddads, and all the father figures who have a special knack for dodgy dance moves, overused catchphrases, and, of course, those legendary dad jokes that somehow never get old. Father’s Day is a day to celebrate the wisdom, the patience, and the endless love these people bring into our lives—often served with a side of wit and a penchant for reminding us to 'check the oil.'
This Sunday, the region is buzzing with activities tailor-made for the dads in our lives. Head over to Dad's Day in the Valley, where an array of cars and machinery will be on display, accompanied by delicious food stalls—because we all know the way to a dad’s heart is through his stomach. For those with a love of nostalgia and locomotion, the miniature trains will be chugging along at Ooralea, offering a delightful day out for young and old alike. Meanwhile, Jazz in the Park promises smooth tunes in the sunshine, and for the more active dads, the River to Reef cycling challenge is back with a heap of great events, testing pedals and perseverance across the weekend.
As we raise a glass (or a wrench) to the father figures who’ve shaped us, remember this: "A father is someone you look up to no matter how tall you grow." I’m exceptionally lucky to have a wonderful husband who has had to step up even more as a dad this year in ways he never would have pictured a year ago. When I’ve been in hospital countless times for surgery and chemotherapy, he’s been the one taking time off work to look after our son. Thank you, Hamish, you’re one in a million.
And in the spirit of the day, here’s a little something to keep the tradition alive: Why do fathers take an extra pair of socks when they go golfing? In case they get a hole in one!
Happy Father's Day to all the amazing dads out there—you’re simply the best!
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Amanda

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The community is inching closer to completing the highly anticipated Pioneer Valley Rail Trail (PVRT), thanks to the generous efforts of volunteers and cycling enthusiasts.

With residents and volunteers from all walks of life contributing to its success, this project has been one driven by the community - for the community.

Brothers Ryan and Evan Corry, who own the local bike shop Corry Cycles, are among the treasured names of many who have supported the rail trail from the very beginning.

Ryan Corry, continuously donates his time and equipment to clear the trail and has been instrumental in bringing the project to fruition. With the support of his machines, the once-overgrown path is now well on its way to becoming a fully accessible rail trail, ready for locals and visitors alike to enjoy.

Councillor Alison Jones has rooted for the project since its inception and is thrilled to have seen the trails come this far with the help of the communities “quiet achievers.”

Cr Jones emphasised the crucial impact that the Corry brothers along with numerous volunteers have had in the lead up to the opening of the trails and said that, "Everyone has played a part, and we couldn't have achieved what we have without them.

“Out of all the volunteers that we have in our community, most of them are quiet achievers and that’s how things get done.

"They have done an enormous amount and we’re eternally grateful for the volunteering and time that they have given.”

Before and after photos of the trail, cleared thanks to Ryan Corry, who generously donated his time and equipment to advance the rail trail project for the community. Photo source: Pioneer Valley Rail Trail

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Last week marked a proud moment for Mackay as 21 eager candidates gathered at the historic Mackay River Wharfs, eager to shape the future of their community. These student participants in the groundbreaking Young Mayors Program, have undergone a transformative election process with nearly 2,500 of their peers casting votes. The result: 12 driven individuals were selected to form the next Mackay Youth Council.

First introduced in 2023, the Mackay Regional Council pioneered this initiative, aimed at empowering the region's youth and giving them a formal platform to voice their concerns and ideas. This year’s election is a testament to the program’s continued success, offering these bright minds an unparalleled opportunity to effect change in the issues that matter most to today’s youth.

Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson expressed his admiration for the candidates and the impact this initiative has already had on the region.

"It's inspiring to see so many young people stepping up to serve their community,” Mayor Williamson said.

“These students aren’t just the future leaders of Mackay; they're showing us that they are leaders right now."

Outgoing Youth Mayor Bridget Wright, having served her term with enthusiasm, had some encouraging advice for the incoming council.

"Don’t lose focus, bring your unique voice into your new role, and never get discouraged,” Ms Wright said.

“Creating change is possible."

As the torch passes, Mayor Williamson was quick to acknowledge Bridget’s leadership:

"Bridget’s time as Youth Mayor was marked by passion, dedication, and tangible results. She set the bar high, but I’m confident the new team will rise to the occasion."

The newly appointed Youth Council members are:
   • Amelia Webber
   • Elena Mathew
   • Ethan Forde
   • Lila Munt
   • Lily Cheyne
   • Logan Ivory
   • Magenta Arthy
   • Natacha McKay
   • Nate Ralph
   • Nathaniel Espartinez
   • Soham Rana
   • Zena Ali

As they prepare to elect their new Youth Mayor and start working on initiatives, the future looks bright for the young voices of Mackay.

Mayor Williamson summed it up best: "Our future is in great hands with these young leaders."

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Mayor Greg Williamson with nine of the newly elected members of the Mackay Youth Council, as they prepare to bring fresh perspectives and ideas to the region's future. Photo supplied

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Last Friday, the region took a significant step towards economic diversification with the launch of A Revenue Diversification Strategy Report from The Greater Whitsunday METS Sector.

This strategy proves to be a crucial component of the Decarbonisation Accelerated Project and was developed under the leadership of Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) and the Resources Centre of Excellence (RCoE).

The launch held at Field Mining Services Group in Paget, brought together key industry leaders and stakeholders to discuss the region's future.

Greater Whitsunday Alliance Chief Executive Officer Kylie Porter emphasised the importance of the strategy in leveraging the region's vast Mining Equipment, Technology and Services (METS) sector.

“We know that this region has the biggest density of METS businesses in the southern hemisphere,” Porter said.

“What it really demonstrates to us is that there are many new emerging industries that are ideally aligned to our regional strengths and capabilities."

The report identified seven industries primed for growth, including critical minerals, renewables, bioenergy, biomanufacturing and aerospace. These sectors present opportunities for METS businesses to diversify their revenue streams and secure their futures as global demand for sustainable solutions increases.

Field Mining Services Group General Manager, Tony Liddelow, expressed his excitement about the region's potential.

"Our unique selling point has been our desire to take the risk away from our customers," Liddelow said.

"It’s really exciting to see what’s happening in our backyard and it’s given our directors a lot of confidence to invest."

Dean Kirkwood, General Manager of Resource Industry Network (RIN), backed these statements by commenting on the importance of the strategy for the region's prosperity.

"We see it as something absolutely necessary for us to thrive and ensure that we remain prosperous into the future," Kirkwood stated.

With over 40 stakeholders involved in its development, the strategy sets a clear path for the Greater Whitsunday region to embrace economic opportunities, power its workforce and champion change for generations to come.

Visit www.greaterwhitsundayalliance.com.au for further information.

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Key industry leaders and stakeholders gathered at Field Mining Services Group in Paget last Friday for the launch of the Greater Whitsunday METS Sector - A Revenue Diversification Strategy. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Acknowledging 30 years since the Commonwealth Government officially recognised South Sea Islanders as a distinct cultural group in 1994, the Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) reaffirmed its commitment to addressing the unique health challenges faced by Australian South Sea Islanders.

Most Australian South Sea Islanders are direct descendants of approximately 50,000 people brought from the Pacific Islands to Australia to work as indentured labourers between 1863 and 1904.

QAS Chief Operating Officer Steven Zsombok and Central Region Assistant Commissioner Robbie Medlin met with Elders from the South Sea Islander community to discuss the ongoing health inequities experienced by the community and expressed their continued support in addressing these concerns.

The QAS Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Action Plan was developed to ensure an inclusive and culturally appropriate focus for the organisation. These community partnerships have played a crucial role in providing equitable healthcare in culturally safe environments.

A recent initiative by the QAS to promote culturally safe care involved introducing a South Sea Islander identification question for paramedics when completing a patient’s electronic Ambulance Report Form. The QAS also maintained its focus on Australian South Sea Islanders through the Multiculturalism Project, with Chief Operating Officer Steven Zsombok serving as the Executive Champion.

South Sea Islanders have forged a unique identity from a tumultuous history, contributing significantly to many aspects of Queensland, including the ambulance service.

The ceremony provided an opportunity to formally recognise nearly 100 years of service from the Fatnowna family, including Clacy, Noel and Norman Fatnowna, whose affiliation dates back to the days of the Queensland Ambulance Transport Brigade (QATB).

President of the South Sea Islander United Australia Association Clacy Fatnowna expressed his appreciation to the Queensland Ambulance Service and honoured those who have supported his vision of introducing a dedicated medical check box for the Australian South Sea Islander community, aimed at addressing their specific healthcare needs.

“It’s a start of a journey that I hope I can repeat numerous times across government departments with regards to engaging and challenging their department to get on board to support Australian South Sea Islanders.

“Thank you to the Queensland Ambulance service,” Mr Fatnowna said.

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Queensland Ambulance Service met with Clacy Fatnowna, President of the South Sea Islander United Australia Association, and the South Sea Islander community last Friday to reaffirm their commitment to improving health outcomes, marking the 30th anniversary of Commonwealth recognition. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara and Queensland Ambulance Service

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Police Call For Witnesses For Pedestrian Injury In Andergrove

Police are appealing for witnesses after a pedestrian was critically injured in a serious traffic crash at Andergrove last week.

Initial investigations indicate at approximately 8am on Friday, August 23, a blue dodge RAM struck a pedestrian on Bedford Road near a roundabout along Oak Street and Celeber Drive in Andergrove.

The 66-year-old male pedestrian sustained extensive injuries and was transported to Mackay Base Hospital before being airlifted to Townsville Hospital.

The driver of the vehicle, a 53-year-old man, was not physically injured.

Investigators are appealing for witnesses, or anyone with dashcam footage between 8am and 9am along Bedford Road and Oak Street in Andergrove on August 23, to come forward.

Investigations are ongoing, please quote reference number QP2401425993.

TWO HIGH-SPEED DRIVERS CAUGHT IN ONE TRIP

On August 24 the Highway Patrol officer from Moranbah station was scheduled to travel on the Peak Downs Highway to Mackay to collect IT equipment and then return.

Mobile speed enforcement was conducted on the journey resulting in the issuing of 17 infringement notices for varied offences, the majority of which were speed related - two speeds were notable.

A 39-year-old man who resides in Moranbah was stopped at 4:14pm on the Peak Downs Highway at Nebo for the alleged speed of 140 kilometres an hour in a 100-kilometre-an-hour speed zone. He was travelling in a Holden Cruze sedan at the time.

This driver was issued with an infringement notice to the value of $1,209 resulting in the loss of 6 demerit points.

A 35-year-old man who resides in Edmonton was stopped at 8:18pm on the Peak Downs Highway also in Nebo for the alleged speed of 163 kilometres an hour in a 100-kilometre-an-hour speed zone. He was travelling in a Toyota Kluger wagon at the time.

The driver was issued with an infringement notice to the value of $1,854 resulting in the loss of 8 demerit points and their driver's licence will be suspended for a period of 6 months.

Regardless of the time of day or location, drivers should expect to witness police conducting speed enforcement patrols

"The speeds that we continue to detect in our enforcement patrols are an ongoing concern," Senior Sergeant Shane Edwards, Officer in Charge of the Highway Patrol Group said.

"All motorists should expect to see police conducting speed enforcement patrols on their journeys, regardless of the time of day or location. Speeding drivers are a risk to themselves and other motorists," Senior Sergeant Edwards added.

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The Mackay North High School Z Club recently presented a generous donation to the Mackay Days for Girls team.
This donation was collected by Z Club members solely for Days for Girls in Mackay, to assist the local volunteer team in their efforts to produce sanitary kits for women and girls in developing countries.
The Zonta Club of Mackay was first chartered in October 1992, and at present, it consists of around 30 active members.
One of the many ways Zonta Club supports the community is by sponsoring Z Clubs in high schools across the Mackay District.
A High School Z Club is led by a voluntary teacher, with participation from students that are primarily female, though with a few male members as well. Meetings are typically held weekly or monthly, often during lunchtime where a representative from the Mackay Zonta Club serves as the contact person for all Z Clubs in the region.
Z Club student members are given resources, information and guidance to help them make a positive impact on the world around them. Together, they plan, organise, and participate in activities that offer them opportunities to improve the lives of others, both locally and internationally.
The club is made up of an enthusiastic and diverse group of women which reflects a cross-section of the Mackay community. Despite differences in age, careers, lifestyles, backgrounds and experience, the compassionate group includes a blend of young professionals, business owners and retirees that all share a love for their community.
Zonta International remains a leading global organisation that empowers women worldwide through service and advocacy, with a focus on visualising a world in which women’s rights are acknowledged and every woman is able to achieve her full potential.
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Zonta Mackay representative Gail Clark with MNSHS teacher Deb Sellars and Mackay North High Z Club members Ella-Grace Newsome, Miley Capron, Georgia Bickford, Taylor Fisher, Charlotte McGuinness and Ailey Matheson at the recent presentation
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Days for Girls – Mackay team members Cathy Davis & Bente McDonald, with Mackay North High Z Club members Charlotte McGuinness and Ailey Matheson at the recent presentation to Days for Girls by Mackay North High Z Club. Photos supplied

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The mining community is in mourning following the tragic death of another worker at the Byerwen Mine site, located west of Glenden.

Emergency services were called to the site at approximately 1.10 pm on Thursday, August 22nd, where they discovered a man believed to be in his mid 50s suffering from critical injuries.

Bundaberg man, John Linwood (56), was fatally injured at the Byerwen mine site and was pronounced dead at the scene.

The incident involved a collision between a haul truck and a light vehicle, and the details surrounding the accident remain under investigation. It is understood that a loaded dump truck was ascending a ramp leading out of the pit at low speed when the light vehicle approached from behind and collided with it.

Macmahon, the company operating at the mine, has expressed deep sadness over the incident.

Michael Finnegan, Managing Director and CEO of Macmahon, said, "This is a tragic and sad incident which has impacted our whole team.

“We continue to support our people, especially friends and family of our deceased colleague, as well as the dump truck operator."

RSHQ CEO Rob Djukic said that as of Tuesday afternoon (27th August), Byerwen coal mine is able to resume activities provided it can maintain a safe operating environment.

“The RSHQ inspector who issued the directive to suspend the use of heavy vehicles is satisfied the requirements have been met,” Mr Djukic said.

“Our investigation into the incident that caused the fatality on Thursday 22 August is ongoing.

“We can also confirm that the incident involved an interaction between a light vehicle and a haul truck.
“Our investigation will look at what caused this interaction.”

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Photo source: Macmahon

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Whitsunday Anglican School’s 2024 Academic School Captain, Rohit Vaidya, was one of only
fifteen students in the State, and the only student from the Mackay and Whitsunday region, to
receive a Peter Doherty Award for Excellence in STEM Education, where he was celebrated for
his outstanding and innovative contribution to STEM education in Queensland.

Marking 21 years of the Peter Doherty Awards for Excellence in STEM Education, the awards
recognise students, teachers, support officers, schools and education partners who demonstrate
their commitment to excellence in STEM education for their schools and communities.

Named after Professor Peter Doherty, a Brisbane-born Nobel Prize-winning scientist, the award
and scholarship program assists students in their continued pursuit of STEM education.

Attending the ceremony with his family, including his older brother Raj, an alumni of Whitsunday
Anglican School and previous Peter Doherty Award winner, Rohit said that he was humbled by
the award.

Rohit has been an advocate for STEM within the Whitsunday Anglican School community and
has embraced the countless opportunities provided by the school, and in the newly-opened
state-of-the-art STEAM Centre.

“It is truly an honour to be one of the fifteen students to have received this prestigious award,”
he said.

“I am looking forward to pursuing a career in medicine after school and continuing in the footsteps
of my older brother Raj and my father in specialising in cardiology.

“I really want to work in a rural or remote community because I believe that these areas require more specialist interventions and I want to strive to be the best doctor I can be.”

Principal, Mr Andrew Wheaton, said Rohit is an outstanding student, excelling in his academic
studies, particularly in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.

“Rohit is a tremendous role model to our school community, and we are immensely proud of
his achievements. He is the embodiment of our school values, and as academic captain,
where he generously supports students from the Preparatory Year to Year 12 in their academic
studies.

“Since joining Whitsunday Anglican School in 2014, Rohit has proven himself as an impressive
young man with a bright future, immersing himself in every opportunity to advance a balanced
education, that has been accentuated by a passion for STEAM – Science, Technology,
Engineering, Arts (critical thinking, literature and The Arts) and Mathematics.”

Rohit’s contributions to STEM education are significant, including the JCU Heroes in Health
program, Australian Mathematics Competitions completed with Distinction in 2023, Opti-MINDS,
Science Olympiads, and he was awarded a scholarship for the Lions Medical Research
Foundation SPARQ-ed (Students Performing Advanced Research Queensland) program.

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Whitsunday Anglican School Deputy Principal (Teaching and Leaning) Natalie Sunner with award winning student Rohit Vaidya. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Rohit Vaidya receiving his award with Di Farmer MP, Minister for Education and Minister for Youth Justice and Michael De’Ath, Director-General, Department of Education. Photo source: Whitsunday Anglican School (Facebook)

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Mackay Writers is hosting a special Memoir Writing Workshop with esteemed Queensland writer Edwina Shaw on Saturday, August 31, and Sunday, September 1, at the Seabreeze Hotel, Lamberts Beach. Shaw, known for her fiction, memoir, and screenwriting, brings a wealth of experience to the event. Her novel Thrill Seekers was shortlisted for the NSW Premier’s Award for New Writing, and she has over 40 stories published internationally. With years of teaching under her belt, including at the University of Queensland and Queensland Writers Centre, Shaw is eager to guide participants through the craft of memoir writing.
The workshop will feature four sessions across the weekend. On Saturday, participants will explore their personal stories and delve into the art of character and dialogue. Sunday’s sessions will focus on developing a plot and navigating the publishing process. It’s an opportunity for both aspiring and seasoned writers to refine their skills and explore new storytelling techniques.
Complimentary morning and afternoon teas will be provided, and Saturday evening will include wine and nibblies courtesy of DBCT. Participants can also enjoy a 10 per cent discount on rooms at Seabreeze Hotel, perfect for those wanting to make a weekend of it.
Supported by the Mackay Regional Council and the Queensland Government, this event is made possible through the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF). Mackay Writers, going strong after 35 years, welcomes new members. For registration forms, email Mackay Writers at mkywriters@gmail.com.

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