At a time when big banks are cutting services, a local branch is celebrating its institution’s success in bucking industry trends, adding more accolades to its collection, and demonstrating that the customer-focused approach is a clear winner.

Queensland Country Bank, a member-owned institution, is distinguishing itself in an industry facing significant challenges, recently securing wins at the WeMoney 2024 Awards, including Customer Owned Bank of the Year, Best Flexibility – Home Loans, Best Rewards Credit Card, and Lender of the Year (Customer Owned Bank) – Car Loans.

These awards have bolstered their existing product and service recognition from Canstar, Mozo, and RateCity.

Mackay Area Manager Bill Paton said the ongoing accolades from multiple independent bodies in recent years support the success of their member-first model.

“One of the key differences for us is that we are a member-owned organisation so we can put people ahead of profits and deliver a genuine Member experience,” said Mr Paton.

“Such accolades and recognition from independent bodies is a testament to the success of our member-first approach, which enables us to reinvest our profits directly into the communities we serve, instead of paying dividends to shareholders.

“In light of the regional banking inquiry and the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, maintaining the trust and reliability of our Members has never been more important.”

Mr Paton noted the challenges posed by the recent surge in branch closures across regional Queensland and emphasised the importance of maintaining reliable financial services for rural and regional communities.

This is especially vital in the Mackay region, given the  National Australia Bank’s (NAB) recent closure of its Sarina branch in April 2024.

“In the past three years, we’ve witnessed a notable increase in branch closures across regional Queensland,” said Mr Paton.  

“While other banks are scaling back their offerings, we’re instead focused on adapting to meet the evolving needs of our Members here in Mackay.

“We’ve seen a notable increase in online banking services, and with our Call Centre based in Queensland, our Members can rest assured knowing they can contact a local representative whenever they need support.

“However, we also understand that everyone has their preferred banking method and recognise the importance of providing face-to-face services for our Members in Mackay who prefer to come into the branch for that in-person contact and support.”

The bank’s people-first philosophy is also evident in its workplace, with Queensland Country Bank earning the ‘Great Place to Work’ certification for a second consecutive year.

“The staff at our Mackay branch truly embody the spirit and values of Queensland Country Bank, and are heavily involved in the local community,” said Mr Paton.

“As an organisation, we’re committed to ensuring our Members have access to the financial solutions they require and look forward to supporting the Mackay region for many years to come.”

‍

Stephanie Nahow, Kiera Duck and Bill Paton. Photo supplied

‍

Right now, either way, you’d be in heaven with show season going full on all this week.

For me personally, you can throw me any show-bags and I’ll be set for a winning day. Set me up on the roller coaster, or any machine that spins, rolls over and goes upside down? Well, you can forget it, because I’ll be guaranteed to bring up last week's smoko if I did. No one wants to see that, or even hear it for that matter.

Show season is one of those weeks that we all love. Sure, we get a public holiday. Sure, we get to have some fun with the family in the cool winter weather, and sure we spend a few bucks to make the economy click over a few times.

Last Sunday we had a ball at Finch Hatton for the 60th Pioneer Valley Show and wow what a day that was. I was lucky enough to be on the mic all day in the centre ring calling the shots for the horse riding and stud cattle. That just amazed me. So did seeing all the families love the entertainment and the fireworks was really a huge highlight.

So, this week it’s all happening at Mackay and of course Proserpine Friday and Saturday. If you get a chance to head out, take the family and make some great memories that will last a lifetime. I say that because when I first came to town in ’81, going to the Mackay show was the highlight of the week. I couldn’t wait for school to be done at Milton Street, so I could head down and run around at the showgrounds for some winter fun.

If you’re doing that with your kids, or even grandkids, have the best time. Take lots of pics, and leave your wallet open, and you really won’t have time to shut it again, if you know what I mean.

One other thing I will say is, please take a moment or three to thank the volunteers who put these events on. Without them, there wouldn’t be any shows. Months and months of planning have gone into them for your enjoyment. Give them a wave or a high five to thank them for what they’ve done. They are a credit to the region.

Oh, the last thing too. If you’re in charge of a little one, get them to drink some pink fizzy drink during the night. Why? Well, wait and see what happens at around midnight, when they are safely tucked in bed, and all of a sudden, the hotdog they ate for dinner wants to come up, and you’ve got to contend with the pink mess on the Bluey bedspread.

Enjoy the cleanup! Just saying! Have fun!

‍

You can join Rob Kidd from 5am weekday mornings on 4MK 1026 AM in Mackay and Proserpine, 91.5FM in Airlie Beach or just ask your smart speaker to play 4MK on iHeartRadio!

‍

By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

‍
Farmers are typically your quiet achievers. They get in, get on, and get the job done.
It’s been a frustrating start to the season again. Marian Mill has been a few weeks late getting up and running, and Plane Creek has been on a delayed start as miller and workers negotiate on wages.
In the background, CANEGROWERS has been in communication with unions and miller, making sure that it is clearly understood that, while worker capacity to earn a living, and mill profitability are both important to keep the industry going, it is coming at a cost to the grower and harvester sector as start dates get pushed back. CANEGROWERS will continue to monitor the situation and make representations where we are able.
The crop needs to be harvested, and the industry really cannot afford season after season running into Christmas. Eating your Christmas cake out in the harvester is a pretty poor way to spend the day, and worse, throws out all your crop cycles and farm profitability to boot.
We’ve been in the background, quietly fighting an action for the interpretation of the Cane Supply and Processing Agreement (CSPA) clause on the calculation Initial CCS for Mackay Sugar growers. It’s an important matter, affecting cash-flow at the start of the season. The action, heading to arbitration, has been borne out of a clear understanding of the CSPA, and many years’ experience and success in managing and maintaining conditions for growers.
We’ve been talking to councillors about rates. We’ve been busy recruiting harvest workers from all across the nation to come work the crush in Mackay through a comprehensive media campaign. CANEGROWERS Mackay has put government funding to good use running haulout driver courses to increase capability in the workforce. We’ve been running workshops on irrigation and building your triple bottom line. And we’ve been working together with other research, productivity, government and economic development organisations to build the local industry’s productivity, profitability, and environmental outcomes.
There is a top professional team working at our Wood Street office, ensuring our members can come in, sit down and talk with the people who process their payroll, their insurances, who organise their farm leases, and who coordinate training across transport, chemical use, business and ag skills. People who will help them get advice on legal and regulatory matters. It’s a big job, and committed, caring member service is at the core.
Queensland CANEGROWERS has been successful in recent times in fighting hard for the supply chain affected by the closure of Mossman mill. For the extension of disaster funding for growers affected by Cyclone Jasper. Continuing to develop programs like the blockchain project that create traceability for Australia’s quality, sustainably produced sugar and sugarcane-based bio-commodities helps build brand and protect our markets.
As one of Australia’s largest and oldest grassroots-run grower organisations, CANEGROWERS typically doesn’t blow its own trumpet. As a not-for-profit, the organisation is very conscious that a large chunk of its funding comes from member levies.
Members trust us to invest these in the future of their agribusinesses: by fighting for the interests of growers, and the success of the industry. We owe it to members to make sure that happens, and that’s why 80% of growers put their faith in CANEGROWERS.
We put in the hard yards, talk straight, represent our members. And that earns the respect of governments, trade organisations and businesses from Australia and around the world, causing them to seek us out to discuss matters of policy, industry, and international trade. We have been the leading grower representative organisation for 100 years, and when you put the experience of over 80 elected representatives statewide together, it certainly attracts the attention of organisations we work with.
There’s a couple of mobs out there that have had a good go at duplicating what we do, and reckon they can do it better, but CANEGROWERS just keep being like that quiet confident farmer out in the paddock, tending the crop, working away in the shed keeping everything running. Farmers are good at that.

‍

Last week, CANEGROWERS Mackay presented to the Mackay Regional Council, providing an update on the status, challenges and opportunities for the region’s cane growing sector. Pictured are District Manager Michelle Martin, Chairman Kevin Borg and Deputy Chairman Joseph Borg. Photo credit: Kirili Lamb

‍

An Australian rural charity has been urgently assisting farmers who are battling increased levels of mental ill-health in recent months.  
 
Rural Aid CEO John Warlters said primary producers are feeling overworked, underappreciated and anxious.
 
“In a recent Rural Aid study, one in two farmers said they’ve felt their mental health decline in the past year,” Mr Warlters said.
 
“76 per cent of our farmers rated their mental health as poor, very poor or average.”
 
“These numbers show that all is not well on the farm,” Mr Warlters said.
 
“It’s a sentiment echoed across the industry; Rabobank’s Rural Confidence Survey has shown farm confidence has plummeted in the past three months.”
 
Rural Aid’s Mental Health and Wellbeing Manager, Myf Pitcher, said weather conditions, biosecurity concerns, and disaster recovery are on farmers’ minds.
 
“Our counselling team is making a really important difference every day, we've been all over the country supporting primary producers,” Ms Pitcher said.
 
“From hay drops in South Australia, to water tank deliveries in Western Australia, and resilience and recovery conversations in Queensland, our mental health and wellbeing team have been working overtime to assist farmers with the challenges they’re currently facing.”

 
To donate to Rural Aid, or to find out more about Rural Aid’s mental health and wellbeing program, visit www.ruralaid.org.au or call 1300 327 624.

‍

OPINION PIECE

 
Returning from Western Australia earlier this week, Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox said it is now clear that this “Albanese Labor Government wants Australian farmers to flock off.”
 
“Make no mistake about it. They have decimated our fishing industry in Queensland, they are now attacking our live sheep exports in WA, and cattle exports will be next across Australia,” Mr Willcox said.
 
“Over 3,000 farmers, families, and children from all around Australia turned out to send Labor a message that ending live sheep exports will decimate their livelihoods.
 
“It’s very simple. Farmers move with supply and demand and change practices accordingly and the Government has no right to interfere in that market because of politics. 
 
“Australia has the world’s best practices in live export, and the world wants our product, so why is Labor standing in the middle of that.”
 
Mr Willcox travelled across Australia to see and listen to those personally affected by this “bad policy” and made sure he could arrive in WA on time to tour a live sheep export vessel so he could see the situation for himself.
 
“I unfortunately had to reschedule a lot of events in my electorate, but this decision is important and important to all of Australia,” Mr Willcox said.

“I made sure I arrived in time to tour the MV Dareen vessel and see for myself the state of the sheep and cattle and the cleanliness of the ship. I also had the opportunity to sit with Dr. Roeger who has been a vet on these vessels for over 30 years and hear about the misinformation being peddled by activist groups.
 
“I can confidently say the staff on these vessels care more about the welfare of the sheep and cattle than Labor does about Australia,” Mr Willcox said.
 
During the inquiry Mr Willcox was “bewildered” by Labor’s thought process that meat processing facilities would just pop up to process the frozen meat, when one hasn’t been built in WA for 30 years.

When asked why, Mr Willcox explained it is because it is purely not economical.

“The market for frozen sheep meat is not there, and there is no confidence in this Government.
 
“Confidence in investment is at an all-time low because what is stopping this Labor Government from interfering with an abattoir because they just don’t like the look of their feedlot pens.
 
“A dangerous precedent is being set here that Australians will allow this level of Government interference in a world market.”
 
Mr Willcox explained the emotional impact this is having on our citizens is real and that was felt in the hearing.

“It was very difficult at times to hear the stories of those living this nightmare and trying to make sense of this situation.”
 
“Of the $107 million compensation package that Labor has announced, we still have no clear indication how much of that will be placed into the mental health of the communities and who will deliver those services on the ground.
 
“Over 11,000 submissions have been made in under one week to the inquiry and a report to be handed down on the 21st of June.
 
“I am not sure about you, but the timeframes of which this inquiry has been stipulated is a prime example of the disrespect this Albanese Labor Government has for Australian farmers.
 
“We will continue pushing for a Senate Inquiry on this legislation because that is what our farmers and our communities deserve,” Mr Willcox said.

‍

One of the good Australian sayings is that someone or something is “punching above their weight”.
The term is often used to describe an ordinary looking bloke with a good-looking girlfriend or wife … “gee, he’s punching above his weight”.
The phrase, I imagine, comes from the world of boxing, where fighters are restricted to a weight division.
Which brings me to a local bloke by the name of Liam Paro. Born and raised in Mackay, Paro won the world title in his IBF light welterweight division against the Puerto Rican world champion, Subriel Matias, in Peurto Rico on Sunday.
It was an exciting bout all the way to the 12th round, with the boy from Andergrove taking it to his more-favoured opponent right through the fight.
The fight finished with a final round climax that showed off Paro’s skills, determination and absolute elite level of fitness as he clearly asserted himself as the better boxer.
He won the bout with a unanimous decision that means he is now the world champion, Mackay’s World Champ.
Now, I’m not going to say that Liam Paro was punching above his weight because that would suggest that his victory was a surprise, maybe with an element of luck.
That would be untrue and unfair on a world champion who has never been beaten … that’s right, 25 wins from 25 fights. The bloke is a legitimate, well-deserved world champion who is definitely not punching above his weight but, rather, is getting the rewards that hard work and talent can produce.
But he is a kid from Andergrove and now he’s a world champion and deserves the highest recognition from this city for what he has achieved … hopefully that will happen in the weeks and months ahead because he deserves to be celebrated.
No doubt, as his achievement sinks in, attention will turn to Mackay.
It will be interesting because Mackay usually flies under the radar. In real estate this city flew under the radar for years.
But as our economy grew and rental returns started growing a few years ago, some of us in real estate made the observation that southern investors would soon discover the opportunities here.
With the economy powering ahead, rental vacancies tightening and a trickle of southerners looking here for a sea change, local people had real estate to themselves for a while. Southern investors did not seem to know about us.
It started to change last year but this year the flood gates have opened and southern investors have turned their attention to Mackay in a big way.
Investors see great value in Mackay in terms of the relatively low-prices, high rental yields, high average incomes, low crime rates and livability of the region.
I had an open house on Saturday that attracted 35 groups of buyers. Those people were all local or a local person looking on behalf of someone who is moving to Mackay.
However, I had a further 40 or so inquiries from southern investors. We ended up with eight offers on the property, most of which coming from investors.
There will be plenty of people who think this is a bad thing and I understand that because the external competition is creating additional demand that is pushing prices up for local people trying to get into the market.
Unfortunately, in a free market economy, demand and supply decide the price of things and, at the moment, real estate investors think Mackay is under-priced and they are looking to take advantage of the opportunity.
So, whether we like it or hate it, there is a new reality and this is a hot market … Mackay is punching above its weight.

‍

Creating inviting outdoor living spaces through DIY projects can transform your backyard into a functional and aesthetically pleasing area for relaxation and entertainment.

Here are several creative ideas to inspire your outdoor makeover:

Cozy Outdoor Lounge: Begin with comfortable seating options like DIY pallet sofas or repurposed wooden benches with plush cushions. Add a handmade coffee table using a reclaimed crate or an old trunk topped with a custom-cut piece of glass.

DIY Hammock Corner: Create a cozy retreat with a hammock hung between two trees or posts. Customise it with handmade pillows and a small side table for books or drinks.

DIY Fire Pit: Build a fire pit using bricks or stones arranged in a circle. Line the bottom with gravel for drainage and safety. Enhance the ambiance with string lights hung overhead or solar-powered lanterns for eco-friendly illumination.

Vertical Garden Wall: Utilise a bare fence or wall by creating a vertical garden. Install wooden pallets horizontally and fill them with small potted plants or herbs. This not only adds greenery but also maximises space.

Outdoor Dining Area: Construct a sturdy dining table from reclaimed wood or pallets. Pair it with DIY benches or chairs made from old wooden crates or tree stumps - complete the setting with a handmade table runner, lanterns and outdoor dinnerware.

DIY Pathways and Walkways: Define pathways using materials like gravel, flagstones, or recycled bricks. Create a rustic look by embedding old railway sleepers or wooden planks for a natural, earthy feel.

Repurposed Outdoor Bar: Convert an old kitchen cart or dresser into an outdoor bar by adding shelves for storage and a countertop for serving. Use reclaimed wood or tiles for the bar surface and decorate with potted plants and hanging glassware.

Outdoor Movie Theatre: Hang a white sheet or use a blank wall as a projection screen. Set up seating with floor cushions, bean bags or homemade pallet sofas. Install outdoor speakers and a projector for movie nights under the stars.

‍

The last of Wilmar Sugar and Renewables’ four Burdekin mills were on track to start crushing earlier this week, on Tuesday.
General Manager Operations Mike McLeod said he expected the first bin to be tipped at Pioneer Mill near Brandon just after lunchtime on Tuesday, and the first raw sugar to be produced by Wednesday.
This means half of Wilmar’s mills will be in full swing by Wednesday, making sugar, molasses and renewable energy.
Inkerman Mill in Home Hill was first to begin the crushing season for the Wilmar group on Monday, 10 June. Despite an unexpected shutdown because of industrial action, Inkerman has already crushed 66,000 tonnes of cane and produced about 8,100 tonnes of sugar.
Kalamia and Invicta mills started crushing on Thursday, 13 June – a week later than originally planned because of industrial action.
Mr McLeod said Wilmar’s other four mills – Victoria and Macknade near Ingham, Proserpine on the Whitsunday coast, and Plane Creek south of Mackay – are all expected to be in production early next week.
The Sarina Distillery has been operating since 1 June, producing bioethanol for fuel and industrial products.
Mr McLeod said crews had worked hard to maintain throughput at the sugar mills that are operating, so growers could continue harvesting while fine weather prevailed.
“Everyone in the industry has an eye on the weather at this time every year, so we can’t afford to lose any time,” he said.
“Our people have worked hard to recover from the earlier stoppages and delays and, with everything going our way, everyone will have a good season.”
Wilmar’s eight mills are expected to process 15.59 million tonnes of sugarcane this year, to produce more than 2 million tonnes of raw sugar.
Representatives from Wilmar and union bargaining agents will meet for another round of bargaining for a new Enterprise Agreement on Thursday (20 June).
The parties will report back to the Fair Work Commission on Friday (21 June).

‍

Wilmar’s Plane Creek site near Mackay and Proserpine site are expected to be in production next week. Photos supplied

‍

Students and teachers from a range of different Mackay regional schools gathered for the annual Festival of STEM, which proved to be a major success last Wednesday as attendees gathered to engage in the Whitsunday STEM Challenge.

This initiative explores the future of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) to prepare and equip generations to come with the knowledge needed to work with an ever-growing world of technology.

The Festival of STEM in Mackay is in its 7th year of competitions and is a range of competitions for primary and high school students including F1 in Schools™, Pedal Prix, Robotics & Drones. These events are proudly supported by Mackay Regional Council and BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA).

F1 in Schools™ competition is the world’s largest STEM competition. Where students not only develop skills in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics but also problem solving, project management, communication, presentation marketing and entrepreneurism.

Mackay bats above its weight in these competitions and previously have had two teams of students' progress through the competition to qualify and attend the world finals.

Robocup has four categories junior and senior rescue challenges, soccer, and dance. These challenges promote a variety of skills that extend across a school curriculum including cooperative spirit, engineering, and IT skills, along with teamwork and organisational skills.

President of the Whitsunday STEM Challenge, Rowan Cahill said that, “the festival of STEM is all about giving an opportunity for all students across all sectors a chance to come together and showcase their abilities.

“It’s huge in the sense that these students will be looking at jobs in the future that at the current point and time don’t exist, with jobs that we can’t even foresee yet.

“The skills they learn, the teamwork, innovative thinking and problem solving is great but on top of that, as part of a lot of the competitions, they need to do presentations and interviews which means they’re learning communication skills and building their confidence.

“On the day, there was kids from state schools and private schools all gathered and working together because at the end of the day, they’re there to get involved and learn while also having fun.”

‍

Students from all types of schools in the region gathered at the big shed, Mackay showgrounds last Wednesday to engage in innovative STEM activities. Photo s supplied: Whitsunday Anglican School

‍

Get ready to be transported to Sudan as you engross this next film night of morality drama - Goodbye Julia.

Across the divides of rich and poor, Muslim and Christian, north and south, light-skinned and dark, Goodbye Julia tells the story of two women who forge an unusual friendship. It takes place in Khartoum during the last years of Sudan as a united country, shortly before the 2011 separation of South Sudan. Wracked by guilt, Mona — a northern Sudanese retired singer — tries to make amends for causing the death of a Southern man by taking in his unsuspecting widow, as her maid. Unable to confess her transgressions to Julia, Mona decides to leave the past behind and adjust to a new status quo, unaware that the country’s turmoil may find its way into her home and put her face to face with her sins. Winner of the 2023 Cannes Un Certain Regard – Freedom Prize.

In upcoming news, Film & Arts Mackay proudly presents an exciting line-up of 7 films.
Pinnacle Playhouse: 27th July as well as on ​22nd to the 24th of August at BCC Mt Pleasant Cinemas.

Bookings essential, please visit their website for more information.

What: Goodbye Julia
When: Friday 21st June 7:30pm
Where: CQU Conservatorium of Music Theatre
Tickets: www.trybooking.com/CSEBJ

‍

Step into Sudan's rich tapestry with Goodbye Julia, a compelling morality drama set against the backdrop of societal divides and unlikely friendships. Image supplied

‍

On Friday 24th May, about 100 members of Mackay 50's & Better celebrated their 30th year of community social events.

The party was held at Goosies North Mackay with what was described as a “lovely delicious 2-course luncheon”, with live music by guitarist Graham Day.

As hundreds of photos were displayed on the big screen, club members reminisced the special events and memories had throughout the years

Generous raffle prizes were gifted by Member for Mackay, Julieanne Gilbert and Chris Ashmore of City funerals, plus several lucky door prizes made for an enjoyable day out. 

Copies of "Tilly's Book of Memories" were also reproduced for guests on the day, in commemoration of Tilly, who was a very active member of the club until her passing. She organised many holiday trips around Queensland and New South Wales, as well as humorous concerts and skits around Mackay. Her book provided many delightful memories and photos of their antics. 

Andrew Willcox MP, Bonnie Hull and Betty White shared their unique stories of their involvement over the years, reflecting on the fellowship of the social club.

Margaret Edwards gratefully said, “I thank each and every one of our host of volunteers who made our big day such a success.”

If you are interested in joining, membership is free however, new members have to complete a membership form for insurance coverage and concessional prices. All venues are wheelchair accessible. Please phone 0400 242 779 for more details.

The next mag and meal luncheon will be held on Thursday, the 27th of June.

‍

Members of Mackay 50's & Better gathered to commemorate three decades of shared memories and camaraderie. Images supplied

‍

Dagwood dogs dipped in sauce, fairyfloss and fairground rides, side show alley and the dodgem cars. A cuddly chicken and a friendly goat, the horse parades and the orchid display – there is so much to see at Show Whitsunday!

Muster Dogs
“A Must”

This year Show Whitsunday will welcome a special guest with ‘Muster Dogs’ winner Frank Finger in attendance.

Frank will “bring the crew” and be in the main ring at lunch time and again at 3pm, to talk to the crowd and inspire them through his humble demeanour.

He’ll tell us how to raise dogs, treat them, how to care for them, his experiences and extra tips.

Show Whitsunday President, Donna Rogers is thrilled to have Frank and his dogs at the show this year.

“We are very excited to be hosting Frank Finger and his Muster Dogs team in the Whitsunday,” said Donna.

“Frank’s down to earth, humble persona is legendary, as is his love of a chat and I think the crowds will be inspired by his story and amazed by his gentle control of his muster dogs.”

What: Show Whitsunday
Where: Proserpine Showgrounds
When: Friday 21 June & Saturday 22 June from 7am

‍

Leader of the Opposition, David Crisafulli, held several public events in the Whitsundays on Monday this week, accompanied by Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm.

The pair attended a special breakfast at Coral Sea Resort followed by an exclusive interview with Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper.

They then headed into Proserpine and met with Councillors before being welcomed at the Tourism Whitsundays board meeting.

For the past 10 years Labor has been in power in Queensland, with Annastacia Palaszczuk Premier for the duration of that time.

David Crisafulli was nominated as Leader of the Opposition in November 2020 and will go up against current Queensland Premier Steven Miles in the State Elections which are due to take place later this year.

Locally, Amanda Camm will once again represent the LNP in her bid to secure a second term as our local member.

A Labor candidate for Whitsundays is yet to be announced.

Having made her bid public earlier this month, former Mayor of the Whitsundays, Julie Hall, is representing One Nation in the election.

“I am pleased to announce that I am running in the seat of Whitsunday with One Nation for the upcoming State election in October 2024,” she said.

Mackay and Whitsunday Life will be covering the upcoming election across our printed publications and also in a new series of videos on our YouTube Channel entitled ‘Life Publishing Group’ – Follow this QR code to watch the first video which features an interview with David Crisafulli and Amanda Camm in the first of our ‘Up Close And Political’ series.

‍

Mayor Ry Collins, Councillor John Collins, Leader of the Opposition, David Crisafulli, Councillor Clay Bauman, Deputy Mayor Michelle Wright and Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm. Photo supplied

David and Amanda at their interview with Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper at Coral Sea Resort. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

‍

Hi Everyone,

I hope you’re enjoying the cracking weather we’re having at the moment!

I know Leader of the Opposition David Crisafulli certainly did when he came to the Whitsundays this week and it was great to catch up with him and our local member Amanda Camm for a chat.

Feel free to scan the QR code on the page opposite if you would like to view the full video of our interview.

Every week I am amazed at the stories that come out of our region and this week was no different.

I have been in semi-regular contact with Shell Wardrope, the local mum who tragically lost her leg following a freak accident seven weeks ago.

When she finally arrived home and invited me up to their house for a chat, I was honoured to be welcomed into their home, especially since the family had been through so much and so recently.

When I arrived there I was amazed to discover there was no sense of bitterness, no ‘why me?’ or feeling of injustice (although I’m sure they certainly feel that sometimes too!)

Instead, what I found was an all-embracing sense of gratitude and acceptance – a feeling of making the best of everything life offers, even when something as vital as your leg is taken away.

When I told Shell I’d like to take a photo she asked if I’d like her to stand up and I simply love the photo we captured.

Instead of a weak victim to circumstance you can see Shell’s strong and powerful nature – her shoulders are back, head held high – she is proud to be here and forever grateful to be with her family.

As we all fall victim to occasionally complaining about our lot in life – our achy back, a tough day at work or a runny nose – let’s remember people like Shell who have been through hell and back, but still have a smile on their face.

While every hardship is of course relative and every feeling we have is valid, it sure does put our daily gripes into perspective.

Rach

‍

Earlier this week, a local sunset cruise company called Whisper Cruises, captained by Dale Tansley, was on one of their regular turtle-spotting sunset tours, when they heard a plea for help in the distance. To their surprise, after searching with their spotlight, they noticed a 24-year-old woman perched on a mangrove branch near Pioneer Bay.
Immediately, the brave crew and guests jumped into action, in hopes of rescuing the poor girl, who by this point said she had been stuck there for an hour. After some deliberation, the team didn’t think that they would be able to get in close enough to rescue her, so phoned Tripple Zero (000) for help.
Dale mentioned how the young woman appeared, “pretty freaked out” and was concerned about the potential crocodiles around her.
Despite not thinking the boat could get any closer, they were eventually able to get near enough to the woman to attempt a rescue. Everyone on board played their part, including the guests, one of whom helped her onto the boat, and the others who had blankets ready for the cold and panic-stricken woman. When the boat got back to shore police checked her over.
This was a courageous act from everyone aboard, Dale affirmed that he didn't “know what would have happened”, if they had not been there to save her. He added that had it not been an electric boat it could have had a very different ending, as they probably wouldn't have heard her cries for help.
Despite the eventful trip, Dale emphasised that the guests still got to see lots of turtles on their sunset tour.
Caption: Superstar Captain Dale Tansley who saved the day

‍