Welcome to the first in our series of Chat Local segments where we ask community members a topical question of the week

This week’s question:

How was your day disrupted by last week’s global IT outage?

Richard Evans

During the recent global IT crash, I was at home trying to meet a publishing deadline. The outage totally disrupted everything. I couldn't access files in the cloud or communicate with international suppliers through email and messaging apps. It really showed me how much I rely on technology for simple tasks like research or coordinating activities.

As it happens, I’m writing a political crime thriller about cybersecurity highlighting how our lives, especially our national security is tied to technology. This recent experience was an eye-opener about how chaotic a prolonged global shutdown could be. I have lost manuscripts and other writing in the past before committing to the cloud, and now I reckon offline backups become important again. Given we are susceptible to natural disasters it’s something we all should reconsider how we operate effectively if technology and power were down for an extended period.

Leanne Abernethy

I was at work when the outage occurred, but our organisation was not affected.

However, I am well aware of how reliant we have become on technology. Whenever the internet drops out, we obviously do not have access to emails which are a very important part of our communication. It can also mean we are unable to make tour and accommodation bookings at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre.

When EFTPOS is down, obviously our visitors are unable to buy merchandise and local produce at our centre unless they have cash.

In all businesses, technology is now very important to all processes so it can be very inconvenient whenever there is an outage of any kind.

Rosanagh Gallivan

I was on Magnetic Island on annual leave so there was minimal impact on my day. For a few hours I didn’t have access to my internet banking app, although payments still went through so this wasn’t really a concern.

On the island itself I didn’t see any major issues or impacts either.

Overall, though from what was reported, I think it does show how reliant we all are on technology in certain industries and instances, but on the flip side, perhaps just how quickly we can bounce back. 
 

Alyssa Turner

During last week's IT outage, I was between work and home. It was interesting as my tech was not affected at work; however, at home, I had no mobile data on my phone or Wi-Fi for days.

It was certainly an eye-opener to people's reliance on technology (I was forced to watch deal or no deal on regular TV—this was devastating!). However, I had no serious implications; it was more just an inconvenience, not the end of the world!

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Where can I get good apprentices, trainees, and young people for my business?

Scott McPherson of IDEAL Placements said: "Are you an employer of choice? That is the first question you must ask yourself. With the labour market so tight, you need to know what separates your business from everyone else. That is your starting point and will help market yourself to apprentices and trainees.”

“Looking internally is always a great place to start. That young person on your books doing 10 hours a week could be your next leader in your organisation. Be prepared to invest time into a young person and watch them grow and thrive."

Reaching out to local schools and government providers to invite students and participants to visit your business is a great way to showcase your business.

Proserpine State High School’s Bernadette Porter (work experience coordinator) and Shelley Simpson (Link and Launch coordinator, a program that connects Year 12 leavers who have not yet transitioned to further study, training, or work) said “pathways include work experience, offering students a taste at their chosen career and the potential to meet a future employer, and Certificate II and III training across many industries. These are precursors to apprenticeships and employment straight after finishing high school.”

“Employers can connect with schools to advertise job vacancies, training opportunities, and get involved in school events.”

The Chamber is partnering with Proserpine State High School and IDEAL Placements for the Whitsundays Job Fair (14 October).

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Shelley Simpson PSHS

Berndadette Porter PSHS

Scott McPherson IDEAL Placements

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Whitsunday Regional Council offers lower differential general rates for owner-occupiers of residential properties used as their principal place of residence. Eligible property owners that comply with council’s policy need to complete and return the required form by 4 August 2024 to take advantage of this. If you already receive this benefit, there's no need to reapply. Ensure your property is correctly categorised for the reduced rate by visiting https://bit.ly/WRC-owner-occupier

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Looking for a real estate agent that offers a personalised experience tailored to suit all your buying and selling needs? Kath Barker is just a phone call away, offering extensive experience and dedication to the real estate market.

With over five years in the industry, Kath has established herself as a trusted independent agent in the Whitsundays area, operating under Compass Realty Whitsundays, and with the support of @Realty.

Having lived in the Whitsundays many years ago, Kath's roots in the community enable her to know the ins and outs of the area. She has even developed a background in building and construction due to working alongside her husband in the construction industry, giving her a unique advantage in understanding property intricacies.

Whether assisting first-time buyers or experienced sellers, Kath is dedicated to achieving the best possible outcomes. What sets her apart as a standout in the industry, is her ability to provide an empathetic approach with a commitment to transparency. This ensures that clients receive honest advice and informed decisions every step of the way.

“I just love the satisfaction of helping people achieve whatever their goals are in real estate, whether that’s buying or selling,” she said.

“I’m not out here to compete with the big agencies, I really just want to be that person that can provide a personalised experience for my clients.”

Beyond her client-centric approach, Kath remains actively engaged in the local real estate landscape, providing regular market updates through informative videos on her socials. Her proactive marketing strategies, including in-home appraisals and targeted listings demonstrate her commitment to delivering quality value and results.

Contact Kath Barker today on 0401809697, email kathbarker@atrealty.com.au or visit Kath Barker - Compass Realty Whitsundays on Facebook for all your buying/selling needs!

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@kathbarkerrealestate/featured

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Next week Whitsunday Regional Council will host a key event at the Shute Harbour Marine Terminal for invited stakeholders to collectively explore the current economic landscape of our region and chart a course towards a prosperous future.
 
Council’s Economic Development Day will focus on “Growth and Opportunity in the Whitsunday Region: Unveiling Our Economic Future" and this event is an exceptional opportunity for invited tourism and commerce stakeholders to network and engage.
 
Guest speakers for the day will be headlined by industry recognised housing market analyst Michael Matusik, who has helped over 1,250 new residential projects come to fruition, many of which involved innovative and often affordable housing solutions.
 
Michael will deliver an in-depth housing/ demographic/property economic market report for the Whitsunday region providing invaluable insights into the current market trends and projections that will undoubtedly shape our economic strategies moving forward.
 
Throughout my career I have always prioritised supporting economic development and advocating for local businesses, fostering strong partnerships, and promoting innovation and this will continue to be a focus in my role as Mayor.
 
Economic development is the cornerstone of a thriving community. It is about more than just growth in numbers; it's about improving the quality of life for our residents, creating opportunities for businesses, and ensuring that our region remains a vibrant, attractive place to live, work, and visit.
 
Here in the Whitsundays, we are blessed with an abundance of natural beauty, from our world-renowned beaches and the Great Barrier Reef to our fertile agricultural lands and diverse marine life. These assets provide a strong foundation for economic development, allowing us to attract tourists, investors, and new residents to our region.
 
However, leveraging these assets requires strategic planning, innovative thinking, and collaboration. This is where the role of the council becomes pivotal.
 
By fostering an environment conducive to business growth, supporting local enterprises, and investing in critical infrastructure, we lay the groundwork for sustainable economic development.
 
A key aspect of our strategy is to diversify our economy. While tourism will always be a vital part of our identity, we must also look to other sectors such as agriculture, marine services, and renewable energy. Diversification not only makes our economy more resilient but also creates a wider range of job opportunities for our community.
 
We must also focus on workforce development. Ensuring that our residents have the skills and training necessary to meet the demands of a changing job market is essential.
 
Community engagement and collaboration are at the heart of our economic development efforts. By working together with local businesses, community groups, and government agencies, we can identify opportunities, address challenges, and create a shared vision for the future.

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Have you ever stopped to think what would happen if your family’s income stopped due to someone dying, getting sick or having an accident?

The loss of wages might be manageable for retirees or people later in their working lives who have brought up their kids, paid down their debts and built up their super and passive assets.  For families with younger kids, bigger debts and lower super balances it may well be disastrous.  Centrelink benefits don’t cover home loan payments and hungry mouths to feed, let alone building for eventual retirement.  You may have some basic cover in your super, but have you ever sat down and worked out if it is enough or even too much?

There are solutions to the problem in Personal Insurances.  These are separate to Health Insurance which covers medical costs, these provide money to the family to keep going.  There are two main types of Personal Insurances, Lump Sum Cover and Income Protection.

Lump sum Cover provides a large lump sum of money to sort out your finances in the event of something major happening.  You can insure for a payout in the event of Death, Total & Permanent Disability (TPD) and Major Medical Trauma, things like cancer, heart attack and stroke.  You need to work out how much is required to keep a roof over the family’s head and provide for ongoing income to get through in the event of each of these things happening to either partner.  The amount required is always different as it is based on your personal situation regards debts and existing super balances and family situation.  You need to consider covering not just the working parent but also any non-working parents as if something major happens, the worker may need to come home or change their job.

Income Protection provides an ongoing monthly income in the event of being off work due to sickness or accident.  The variables are how much you will be paid per month, how long you have to be off work to start getting paid and how long you will be paid for if off work for an extended period.  Considerations are how much sick leave and cash reserves you have and if you have TPD cover.

The key with personal insurances is to know where you stand.  What cover do you have now, and do you need to top it up or reduce to save premium and know how things will pan out.  Like all insurance you hope you’ll never need to claim but you sleep better knowing you have some cover in place, especially at that stage of life where you have lots of financial commitments.

If you think you could benefit from a discussion with a Financial Planner, give us a call on 49467359 of visit www.eclipsefp.com.au   There’s no obligation, the first meeting is free and all fees are spelled out clearly in advance.

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EvoPrime Fitness opened its all-new gym space on Shute Harbour Road at the weekend. The opening event was filled with fun activities, free sessions and delicious food.
EvoPrime Co-owner Ash Lade was thrilled with how the opening day went:
“It was fantastic, it's probably something that we'll do annually to not just showcase what we do but also connect with the community.”
Ash and her husband Matt, have owned EvoPrime since 2019, originally located in Cannonvale. The gym has now expanded and re-opened near Mount Marlow and Ash said that making this move has “proven really successful & we’re just getting started”
“We've got a great location, it's much more accessible for people, in Prossie, Mount Julian, Sugarloaf and this side of Cannonvale.”
To coincide with the re-opening, the gym is offering a special 28-day kickstart program. The personalised program is designed to jumpstart your health and fitness journey.
Rather than a collective group challenge, the team at EvoPrime tailor the nutrition component for you, providing customised meal plans. EvoPrime also offers holistic approach to Nutrition focusing on supporting hormones, gut & metabolic health. Additionally, the team will help you set up sustainable workout routines within the sessions.
The gym provides a diverse array of classes including endurance, strength, performance, active recovery, and flexibility. Each session embodies a holistic approach to whole human health & fitness, targeting fascia, bones, nervous systems, cognitive function, and beyond. The gym’s primary focus is on implementing anti-ageing techniques that promote sustained mobility, longevity and vitality.
Clients can anticipate a deeply individualised experience, with a coach always present on the floor, providing guidance and support, to ensure no one has to figure out their fitness journey alone.
Additionally, the gym environment is mirror-free, encouraging a focus on internal awareness, and participants train barefoot.
“Do you know how many people over the last three weeks said I am signing up because you don't have mirrors?” Ash enthused.
To find the gym’s timetables and additional information head to EvoPrime’s website or socials. While some classes do require membership, there are also many classes which do not, at EvoPrime there is a class for everyone: evoprimefitness.com.au

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The Lade family at EvoPrime Fitness’s opening event
Racing Driver Jure Portelli with her car
Event attendee’s getting into the fitness spirit

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Dear Manager,
 
I’m a Millennial.  I was born between ’81 and ’96. 
 
I am sociable and self-confident, but you may think I’m self-absorbed. I am competitive, goal driven and I rewrite many of society’s habits – like avocado toast & ride-sharing! I prefer online training and a collaborative communication style. I expect change to be a constant and I see it as an opportunity. 
 
I love technology – it’s the only way we get stuff done! The internet was my playground and digital is in my blood.  I grew up with a smart device in my hand – not a book. I enjoy being idealistic, multi-tasking and having access to more information than I need. I need goals, a clear target, and constant feedback. I also love things that look great on my resume 🤣. I prioritise work-life balance so I value adaptability and flexibility. I need to know I make a difference – especially in community and world issues. I have a strong moral-code and I advocate strongly for right over wrong. I want to fix the world – but I want to enjoy life while I do this. I want to be better tomorrow than I am today.
 
My differences aren’t negatives. I bring a lot to the workplace, if you just understood me better . . .?
 
If reading this has already p!#ed you off, here’s some handy tips so you can get the most out of your millennials: 
 
   • Create collaborative multi-generational groups for cross-mentorship
   • Use multiple communication platforms and identify what the majority would like to use – face to face, messenger, WhatsApp etc.
   • Create an environment which supports reciprocal respectful feedback across generations and align feedback with mentorship
   • Be clear, transparent and consistent with roles, responsibilities and goals – don’t assume
   • Create flexible work schedules and conditions - quality and quantity of output is goal, not where and when it’s done
   • Provide recognition and/or incentives – tell them how they make a difference and the positive impacts they create
 
. . . And while you’re at it:
   • Acknowledge and embrace different learning styles
   • Ensure all your people feel heard and valued (if I have no voice, I have a no care attitude)
   • Keep all generations working and communicating together, and help manage potential irritations
 
And lastly, understand that one-size-doesn’t-fit all when it comes to your team-members. We all think, act, respond and behave differently. Embrace the differences and leverage them to the individual’s and the business’s benefit. Need help with your multi-generation team-members? Call Shiift – We Do People!

Ref: The Executive’s Guide to Leading Millennials, Gen Xers, and Baby Boomers (Wharton UofP)

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Originally from the Gold Coast and working briefly on a boat on Hamilton Island 35 years ago, Trish moved permanently to Airlie Beach in 1996, establishing herself as a longstanding member of the local community.
Trish recently worked in administration for a Legal Firm, before realising that her true passion laid in Sales:
“I love sales, that’s why I came back to it, I really missed it.”
Trish is really excited to have joined the team at Whitsunday Life Newspaper and is ready to get stuck into meeting more members of the community.
“I’ve always liked that Mackay and Whitsunday life is community-based, and I've always read it.”
Trish brings a wealth of sales experience to Whitsunday Life, gained through roles with various companies Australia-wide. Her background includes positions with a financial company, solar sales, and facilitating for Coles Supermarkets.
When Trish isn’t wearing her sales hat, she is relaxing at home and, “cooking with a glass of wine.”
Trish has been with Whitsunday Life for two weeks, and is settling in great, she says the thing she is enjoying most about her new position is the people in the team and the community members she meets:
“I love speaking to people on my rounds, I'm loving the connection with the community, and seeing faces I haven't seen for ages and everyone in the team here is lovely.”
Trish is a wonderful addition to Whitsunday Life, with her vibrant and positive energy and extensive sales expertise. If you spot her around, please take a moment to introduce yourself and say hello!

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Trish Jandt, Whitsunday Life’s new Sales Account Manager

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Tourism Whitsunday are excited to announce that expressions of interest are open for their Working with Cruise Workshop in September. This year they will also have a B2B component for operators who want a short one-on-one appointment with the Cruise Reps. 
Together with Tourism and Events Queensland Tourism Whitsunday have been working on confirming a mix of Shore Excursion providers and Cruise Company Reps to come and speak with members about working with Cruise Ships. 
In attendance they will have; Carnival's Director of Destination Management, Michael Mihajlov, a representative from Royal Caribbean, alongside reps from Bob Wood Tours, Intercruises, Shorex Australia and A&K. 
This year's workshop will feature panel sessions with Q&A opportunities from the audience. After the workshop and panels, they will be holding a B2B session which will comprise timed appointments between operators and the CruiseLine and Shorex reps. These appointments will give individuals the opportunity to make a connection or discuss a product. 
Please contact Cait – cait.fleming@tourismwhitsundays.com.au for further information.

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Provided by Cait Fleming, Industry Trade & Development Manager, Tourism Whitsundays  
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Image provided by Tourism and Events Queensland
Contributed with thanks to Rosanagh Gallivan

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Our local PCYC is thrilled to announce it became a finalist in the Queensland Training Awards with its Get Set for Work Program which was nominated for the North QLD Community Training Initiative of the year.
The event was held on 20th July in Townsville and this year the awards had over 800 applicants spread out over eight different categories.
The Community Training Initiative of the Year is an award for a community-based not-for-profit organisation delivering a specific program or project (an initiative) to Queenslanders who need support to gain the skills, experience and qualifications required to enter and stay in the workplace.
Despite not winning the award, PCYC made it to top three and became a finalist. Sargent Billy Li, expressed his enthusiasm to what was a, “really exciting night”, and emphasised his pride in their efforts.
“At the time of nomination, ‘Get Set for Work’ had only been around four months, and by the awards evening only 18 months,” Billy Explained. He further highlighted that many of the other nominees had been established for years, making their top three finish even more noteworthy.
Program Coordinator, Scott lynch added: “While we didn't get the awards, it was very humbling to be recognised on stage with a finalist's certificate at the QLD Training awards.”
“We’ve all worked very hard here for the past two years to make the program what it is today, so to be recognised with our efforts and the success, we’ve generated with participant outcomes was quite emotional.”
“We are only a small club but we punch above our weight, and then some more again.”
Scott Lynch, also stated how they would like to thank all the team for their hard work and all the “stakeholders who contributed to this outcome.”
“Without 3rd party involvement, such success would not be possible,” Scott added.
“We couldn't run without them,” Billy agreed.
To find out more about the great work being done at PCYC head over to their website: www.pcyc.org.au/clubs/pcyc-whitsunday/

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The PCYC Team with their Finalist Certificate for their ‘Get Set for Work’ Program. Photo supplied

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Youth mental health is an important topic for many families and Proserpine State High School Year 12 student Nathan Richards is passionate about the topic. 

Nathan has been accepted into the Mental Health Foundation Australia’s Youth Leaders Program (YLP) for 2024 and is the only high school student selected, with the other leaders being current university students. 

Nathan said it was a great honour to be accepted into the program as one of 16 from across the country.

“I’m hoping to raise greater awareness about youth mental health for rural towns to help improve support services,” he said.

This year Nathan was named the first ambassador at his school for the Push For Better Foundation that aims to raise awareness and remove stigmas when talking about mental health.

He was also one of the first six b kinder ambassadors named at Proserpine State High School as part of the b kinder foundation.

Proserpine State High School Principal Don McDermid said Nathan has never underestimated the impact his actions can make on his peers and the wider community.

“It’s impressive to witness Nathan’s actions and passion towards making a difference to the wellbeing of Australia’s youth,” he said.

“Now he takes his vision to a national level. It’s very inspiring!”

As part of the YLP Nathan will take part in a series of webinars and discussions with businesses, parliamentarians, government organisations and agencies, universities, TAFE colleges, schools and professionals working in the mental health sector.

They will be discussing issues youth are faced with regarding mental health and what it is younger Australians require when it comes to support and advocacy.

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Proserpine State High School Principal Don McDermid and Nathan Richards. Photo supplied

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Whitsunday Christian College invites the community to join them for an exciting evening of fun at their highly anticipated 'Night Under the Stars'.

Scheduled for Friday, August 16, this biennial celebration promises music, amusement stalls, an 'Eat Street' experience, fireworks, and more.

"We are delighted to announce our biannual 'Night Under the Stars', a family-friendly event that embodies our community spirit," said Principal Kylie Langshore.

"Organized by our dedicated students and staff, this evening promises to be a highlight of the year, celebrating the vibrant community here at Whitsunday Christian College.

"We aim to open our doors and connect with the local community through this special event.

"Families will have the opportunity to explore our campus, engage with our school community, and enjoy a range of activities spread across the grounds."

The event will feature a Farmyard Nursery, inflatables zone with jumping castles and the mechanical bull, Mr Poppa’s Balloons, face painting, art exhibition, book fair, sideshow amusements, and more, illuminated by festoon lighting to enhance the Eat Street ambiance.

Students will host amusement stands and perform on stage, showcasing their talents through various musical performances.

As part of the night's theme, families can participate in the 'Star Gazers Lucky Stars Competition', collecting stars around the College for a chance to win a Nintendo Switch Lite.

The event offers a memorable experience for all.

“Community building is at the heart of our vision, and this event embodies that goal”, added Mrs Langshore.

“We invite you to join us, stay awhile, enjoy the festivities, share a meal, and embrace the winter atmosphere.”

“Events such as ‘Night Under the Stars' highlight how vital community is in shaping our students' educational journey.

“Our students actively contribute to planning and executing the event, learning valuable lessons in cooperation, empathy, and leadership.

“These skills extend beyond academics, preparing them for future endeavours. Such occasions also cultivate a deep sense of belonging and pride within our school community, reinforcing our identity as members of the Whitsunday Christian College family.”

Beginning at 4:00 pm and running until 9:00 pm, 'Night Under the Stars' promises a festive atmosphere and all are invited to come and join in the fun!

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What: Night Under the Stars
When: Friday 16 August 4pm – 9pm
Where: Whitsunday Christian College

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Whitsunday Christain College’s previous ‘Night Under the Stars’, photos supplied

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Bowen’s annual Art Exhibition this year will take place on the 9th of August 2024 until the 13th of August at the Bowen Community Hall cnr William and Leichhardt Streets, Bowen.
One of Bowen Art Society’s long-term goals is to promote the wonders of the Whitsundays Region as a destination for Artists and Arts retreats and workshops. Working toward that goal the society annually host an Art exhibition which has attracted Artists from Interstate, regional and local areas.
The exhibition will be judged by Townsville artist, Rhonda Payne and the open section theme is black and white, which is open to artist interpretation. First prize this year is a whopping $700.
Categories for this year’s exhibition are as follows: marine /sea scape, Landscape/cityscape, Flora/fauna, Miniatures. This year’s exhibition also includes two exciting new categories which are abstract and 3D.
All sections can include drawing or printmaking relating to the category described. Entry forms are due Friday 2nd of August with delivery of artworks on Thursday the 8th of August and collection of artworks Tuesday 13th of August after 4pm.
The Art Society are also hosting an opening night event on the Friday the 9th of August from 6pm, which includes a wine and cheese night with music and a raffle. Entry to the event is $10 per person and includes a presentation at 7pm.
The exhibition is also supported by various sponsors: Abbot Point Operations, Whitsunday Regional Council, Dale Last MP, Queensland Country bank, The Professionals Real estate, Bowen Home Hardware and Rose Bay Resort.
For further information contact Terry Laidlaw 0412758984.
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What: Bowen Art Exhibition
When: 9th -13th August 10am-4pm
What: Opening Wine and Cheese Night
When: 9th August 6pm until late
Where: Bowen Community Hall cnr William & Leichhardt Streets, Bowen

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Entry to Bowen Art Exhibition

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Bowen professional bull rider Beau Willis helped secure three event wins, by winning one event at the QLD Pro Bull Riding State of Origin Series Champions held in Cairns two weekends ago.
The State of Origin PBR consists of the best 10 riders in the state. Athletes compete over 3 rounds (every 2 weeks) and the winning state is the state that wins 2 out of 3 rounds.

Beau, who has been competing professionally for 15 years, originally found out about the sport through his school, who offered rodeo as a subject:
“There was a group of us that started doing it through school and fifteen years later I am still doing it!” Beau explained.
The school course consisted of theory, followed by a practical where Beau said they were allowed to ride some small bulls.
When asked about his part in winning in the State of Origin, Beau said:
“It was great to finish on a good note.”
Beau is also competing to qualify for the grand finals, which will have around 22 finalists aged 18 and over.
“We have a few weeks off before the next event, and then it's on to the new season,” Beau added.
Team Queensland Captain Macaulie Leather said he couldn’t have asked for a better ending to the series and was extremely proud of Beau and the team.
“I know what the boys are capable of and they know what they’re capable of and they went off and proved it,” Leather said.
“They always ride unreal, they’re all exceptional athletes individually and to do it as a team is even better.”
With one event left until the final showdown, riders, such as Beau will now be looking to gain crucial points ahead of the Grand Finals in Townsville on November 1 and 2, which is the richest bull riding event in the southern hemisphere, where $30,000 of prize money is up for grabs.
To prepare this, Beau says he has been doing a lot of training, including gym work and practice bulls.
Congratulations Beau on a fantastic win.

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Beau Willis competing in PBR State of Origin
Beau Willis

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