The new easy-to-use yet powerful chainsaw from Stihl is available at Bowen Small Motors & Cycles, with the whole community invited to come on down and check it out.

The new 172 and 182 chainsaws from Stihl are newly improved models of the 171 and 181.

The predecessor was extremely popular at Bowen Small Motors & Cycles and with winter here, it’s the perfect time to purchase.

“The 172 and 182 are good for normal homeowners that like to cut timber and go camping,” said Bowen Small Motors & Cycles Service Manager Stephen Firth.

“Stihl has improved them a bit and made them more efficient.”

“They now meet the emission rules and there’s a computer diagnostic which is a new thing that they've added to it, and it makes it easier to use.”

The computer records all information; run times, how many times it has been used, and speeds up diagnostic systems ensuring the product performance is better.

Both models also have an anti-vibration system which reduces the vibrations at the handles, allowing the user to have pro-longed use without the long-term effects vibrations can have on the body.

To reduce maintenance, there is also a compensator acting as a control system in the carburettor.

It uses pressure compensation to ensure that engine performance, exhaust gas quality and fuel consumption remain relatively constant over a long period of time.

The 172 costs $349 and the 182 costs $449 and both are available now at Bowen Small Motors & Cycles.

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Service Manager Stephen Firth, Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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On Saturday, 22nd June, Bowen's McKenna Hall was transformed by dozens of beautiful white dresses, gloves, heels and corsages. Here, gathered 14 debutantes for the St Mary’s Catholic Parish Debutante Ball in Bowen, where the ladies were ‘formally introduced’ into society.
The ladies and their partners arrived from St Mary’s Church, in a school bus, to the winter wonderland themed evening, that was decorated with snowflakes, balloons and fairy lights.
The ladies spend weeks preparing for the event, including, learning and practising their dances for the evening (taught by local volunteers), searching for their gowns and getting their hair and makeup done.
Federal member for Dawson, Andrew Wilcox was in attendance and commented that everyone looked “absolutely stunning”.
“Congratulations to everyone involved in bringing this wonderful occasion together from the team of volunteers who provided dance lessons to the decorators of the hall and everything in between. And, of course, to the mums and dads and carers who encouraged and organised their young people to be part of this very special, age-old tradition.”
The night included presentations and a formal dance program in front of an audience of 150 family, friends and community members. There was also a speech from Sister Judith Foster from Townsville, a live band called ‘Hot, Hot, Hot’ from Mackay and a light supper for everyone to enjoy.
The event has been held uninterrupted for over 90 years and is Queensland’s longest consecutively run debutante ball.
Organiser of the Debutante Ball, Raynee Bidgood, said that the evening was “lovely”.
“Everyone enjoyed themselves, the debs had a great time and that's what matters”.

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Start the financial year in style as the highly anticipated MG3 hits MG Bowen’s showroom and is now available throughout the Whitsundays.

“The MG3 is Australia’s best-selling light hatchback at the moment and it’s now got a brand new generation model,” said Marketing Manager Angus Outram.

“It’s a small little hatchback and the newest model has got massive technology upgrades.

“Massive upgrades to the infotainment system; Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and all the features you'd expect in a brand new car.

“It’s got bold styling; it is a very good looking car.”

Popular amongst first time car buyers due to its low price, Angus expects this new model to be popular as well.

The old MG3 started at $18,990, but this newest generation has more technology, and is priced at $25,948 Drive Away for the Excite Petrol.

The all-new MG3 is available in both Petrol and Hybrid models, with the hybrid’s rated at 4.3L/100KM and it starts at $30,068.

MG customers receive a seven-year unlimited kilometre warranty.

“Considering that reliability is a very important part in people's purchasing decisions, having the peace of mind of a seven-year unlimited kilometre warranty is quite good,” exclaimed Angus.

“For people in Airlie Beach and Bowen that are looking for something super affordable locally, they have to resort to a used car, so it's great that they have a new car option with warranty and all the good things that a new car has.”

MG Bowen has been in the region for almost a year now and they have many happy customers, and you could be the next one with your brand new MG3 hatchback.

Be sure to pop into Bowen MG at 98 Herbert Street to pick up your new wheels.

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MG3 Hatchback, Photo supplied

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Jenn Honnery, Chair of Bowen Tourism and Business has newly been appointed as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Bowen Gumlu Growers Association.

Ms Honnery loves Bowen and the Whitsundays and looks forward to starting her new position.

“Right now, I am looking forward to getting out and catching up with the growers themselves, and certainly learning more about crops that I haven't had much to do with,” said Ms Honnery.

“I am excited to learn more in this space and see what projects we can continue to deliver that helps everyone out.

“It's a great opportunity to work with growers directly on supporting the industry.

“The horticulture industry in Bowen, Gumlu and up to Burdekin region, is quite big. It's Queensland's largest winter crop of vegetables.

“So, if you're eating a tomato in winter in Australia, chances are it came from Bowen.”

President of Bowen Gumlu Growers Association Carl Walker said, “We are very fortunate that she (Jenn Honnery) decided to apply because it is very hard to find good people who can actually work in our industry because the industry is extremely diverse.”

“It is extremely difficult at times because it's ever changing, our industry is never the same two days in a row.

“Our new mayor, Ry Collins was our CEO and obviously we've lost an extremely good person with Ry but we're very fortunate enough to have someone who's equally as passionate to take over his role as CEO of the Bowen Gumlu Growers Association.

“We look forward to Jenn putting her stamp on the position. The growth of our organisation going forward is in very good hands.”

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business Leanne Abernethy said, “We are delighted that Jenn will be head of the Local Growers Association.”

“We’ve always worked closely with the organisation which supply us with farming maps for our Bowen and Collinsville Visitor Guide.

“We wish Jenn all the best in her new role and look forward to her continuing her voluntary position as chair of Bowen Tourism and Business.”

Bowen Gumlu Growers Association are a regional industry body that represent the interests of their members, horticultural growers, producers and associated agribusinesses in North Queensland.

Their mission is to support and be a voice for growers and to lead a sustainable future for the horticultural industry in North Queensland, and their vision is to have a strong cohesive horticultural industry in North Queensland that enhances the communities in which we live.

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CEO of the Bowen Gumlu Growers Association Jenn Honnery. Photo supplied

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"We can't help everyone, but everyone can help someone"

In a heart-warming gesture, a local business has jumped on board to offer a helping hand to those in need by providing a clothes rack of warm jumpers and essential items for winter – completely free of charge. Given the rental and financial crisis, many people are left grappling for money with others forced to sleep on the street.

In light of this, IDEAL Placements Mackay have provided a Community Rack on display at the front of their business to “help the less fortunate people and families struggling with no warm places to live or able to afford new season clothing.”

The kind company posted to their Facebook page in an attempt to spread the word so that those who are struggling can access the items free of charge and with no communication necessary.

The post read: “Located out the front of our building (70 Sydney Street) is a clothes rack with coats, dressing gowns, oodies, cardigans, etc. - where anyone is welcome to collect or donate items throughout the day!

“Please, if you'd like to donate something, feel free to come and replace anything that's been taken or bring it into the office for us to add to the rack.

“If you are struggling or need some warmer items - feel free to pop by and take something, no fees or no communication necessary - you can just take what you need.”

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IDEAL Placements Mackay have kindly offered a selection of free jumpers and warm clothing for those who are unable to buy new items due to financial strain. Image supplied

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Last night, tragedy struck in South Mackay with a devastating homicide that claimed the life of a 34-year-old woman and left a 66-year-old man seriously injured. Emergency services were called to the scene at 4.36pm where the incident unfolded at Robb Place.

Initially, the area was placed under an emergency declaration as police launched a comprehensive search for the alleged perpetrator and residents were urged to remain indoors while the operation was underway.

The boundaries under the Public Safety Preservation Act (PSPA) included Robb Place, Paradise Street, Archibald Street, Kindermar Street and Denton Street.

Investigations revealed that the 31-year-old assailant who was reportedly armed with a firearm approached a woman who was seated in a vehicle outside her residence. The attack was said to be unprovoked and with no prior connection between the suspect and the victim.

Police authorities confirmed that “It is understood the pair were not known to each other, however resided on the same street.”

Paramedics arrived to find the woman with critical head and chest wounds, sadly pronounced deceased at the scene.

Devastatingly, two children were also in the vehicle at the time, but they managed to escape unharmed, fleeing on foot from the scene.

Shortly after, another victim, a man in his 60s was also shot after trying to intervene. He sustained non-life-threatening gunshot wounds to his sternum and hand and was transported to Mackay Hospital under the care of Critical Care Paramedics.

The suspect fled the area and police later tracked the Mitsubishi Triton to a service station along the Bruce Highway near Hilton Street, where the 31-year-old man was taken into custody without incident.

The emergency declaration was lifted later in the evening as police assured the public that there was no ongoing threat.

The 31-year-old man has since been charged with murder and attempted murder and is scheduled to appear before the Mackay Magistrates Court today, on June 20.

This tragic incident has shaken the community to its core, leaving residents deeply devastated by the senseless act of violence. Many express disbelief that such a tragedy could occur in their hometown, likening it to something out of a movie rather than reality.

Our sincere condolences go out to all who were affected by this tragedy.

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Photo Credit: Queensland Police Service

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Winter is my favourite time of the year in Mackay!
To be fair, when I lived in New Zealand, I loved winter too. Living at the base of Mt Hutt skifield in Mid Canterbury, we had regular blankets of snow, which I always found utterly magical.
However, I have an even fonder love for winter in Mackay. No de-icing the car windscreen, no slipping on icy driveways and I still rarely need to hunt out a pair of socks. But what truly makes winter my favourite time of year here in Mackay, besides the stunning sunny, mild weather, is...drumroll, please... Show week!
Yes, all the carnival delights, starting with the Pioneer Valley Show, followed by Mackay a few days later. If we really wanted to go for a hat trick, we could head to the Whitsundays on Friday too! Three shows in one week—now that's what I call a triple treat. I had a blast at the Pioneer Valley Show last Sunday, as you can tell by the double-page spread of photos on pages 24-25. My son went to his first show last year, the Mackay Show, before he was even three months old. This year, he rode the little pirate ship solo—his very first ride without a co-pilot. My husband had a ball taking him down the big slide while I was on teacup ride duty, spinning into dizziness.
It was extra special because my parents are visiting from New Zealand, experiencing their first Aussie show day. We indulged in the obligatory Dagwood Dog, and my Dad asked, "Why is it a saveloy instead of a sausage?" Ah, the subtle nuances of culinary delights across the Tasman! My mum was keen to try a twisted potato, while I was curious about hot buttered corn on the cob and mushrooms on a stick. A special shout-out to Finch Hatton State School for their delicious steak burgers—the long line spoke volumes!
I hope you managed to catch some of that show magic at one of the region's events this week, and if you missed out, don't fret—there's always Sarina later in the year!
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Amanda

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By Amanda Wright
Geotechnical drilling has produced “promising results” for the Queensland Government’s proposed pumped hydro storage project at Pioneer-Burdekin, but the project is stirring significant controversy within the community and across political lines.
Following drilling by local Mackay-based company Twin Hills Engineering, investigations by WSP and SMEC have found very strong, coarse competent granite rock, which the Queensland Government claimed is ideal for dam construction, tunnels, and potentially multiple underground multi-turbine powerhouses.
The proposed hydro power station aims to store surplus renewable energy to power Queensland when the sun doesn’t shine, and the wind doesn’t blow. The station plans to pump water up the Great Dividing Range when power is plentiful and cheap, before letting gravity generate immense power during evening peaks when energy is scarcer and prices higher, a process the State Government says will help drive down prices for households.
The state Government says that this project, if completed, will be the largest water battery of its kind in the world.
To date, 33 boreholes have been completed along with 20 test pits. These tests have revealed two main types of rock at the site, while comparatively, Snowy Hydro has over 20. According to the Queensland Government, the results will help refine the project design to lower costs and improve delivery timeframes, with more data leading to more detailed design specifications and lower risk.
Minister Mick de Brenni highlighted the significance of these findings, stating, "The results of the Miles Government’s investment in detailed geotechnical engineering have delivered the best possible scenario for Queensland’s most important energy project.
“The quality of these core samples upholds the many years of preliminary assessments the Government has done across multiple locations, and is another win for Queensland’s Energy and Jobs Plan."
Queensland Government Geologist, Tony Knight added, “The samples I inspected from the site at a meeting with Minister de Brenni and Queensland Hydro looked to be very strong, competent and solid rock.
“This is exactly the type of rock needed for these projects for strong foundations and stability.
“I look forward to seeing the full data from the investigations.”
Qld Hydro CEO, Kieran Cusack said that the purpose of conducting a range of initial investigations, including geotechnical investigations, is to ensure they have a deep understanding of the proposed Pioneer-Burdekin project site so they can consider all the options and present the most informed business case possible.
“These are important projects for Queensland’s future, so it is incumbent upon Queensland Hydro to be methodical in our approach,” Mr Cusack said.
“Our geotechnical investigations have shown very promising, high-strength, highly competent granite throughout the proposed project site. We are encouraged by the results of the geotechnical investigations conducted so far. Our investigations are continuing.
“Conducting methodical investigations now to obtain this critical geotechnical data will ensure our initial plans are more robust, which allows for more accurate estimating of costs and timelines for construction if the project is approved.”
However, after months of speculation on where the opposition stood, the LNP has publicly declared its stance against the project.
Opposition Leader, David Crisafulli said, "The government does not have a credible plan.
“They have a multi-billion-dollar fantasy based on the Pioneer-Burdekin pumped hydro project, a project energy experts and environmentalists believe just won't happen.
“Massive cost blowouts on this project will unavoidably drive up the price of power.
“This is a project without direct funding, no approvals, no social license from the local community, it will inevitably lead to higher prices for consumers."
Mr Crisafulli added that there's a difference between responsibly supporting budget’s supply and honouring underway fully funded programs and backing exorbitant thought bubbles.
The LNP has vowed to halt the project if elected, aligning with local voices who oppose the flooding of Netherdale.
The debate over the Pioneer-Burdekin Pumped Hydro Project has created a clear division, with the Queensland Government touting it as a critical step towards renewable energy targets and job creation, while the LNP and many local community members view it as an impractical and costly endeavour with devastating consequences for the Eungella environment.
Advocacy group, ‘Save Eungella’ said that no Queensland politician should support this project.
“Huge thanks and acknowledgement to Eungella's local members (State) Stephen Andrew for Mirani and (Federal) Michelle Landry LNP for supporting our fight from day one,” the group said, acknowledging the politicians who have publicly opposed the project, supporting protestors who have voiced their concerns in Canberra.
Federal Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry, added that the LNP’s announcement was a win for common sense.
“I’ve been campaigning hard against this nonsensical project since it was announced in September 2022.

“I thank my state colleagues for coming on board to stop the destruction of Eungella and the Pioneer Valley.”

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Federal Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry, supported Pioneer Valley locals at the Reckless Renewables rally in Canberra last February. Photo supplied

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By Hannah McNamara

Sixty-four years ago on June 10, twenty-nine lives were claimed in one of the region’s most tragic, yet mysterious plane crashes in Australia’s aviation history.

In the lead-up to the 65th anniversary next year, it’s important as a community to remember the history of our regional landmarks and learn about this catastrophe, one that is unheard of for some, but remembered by many.

In 1960, the Fokker Friendship F-27 aircraft named Abel Tasman was set to arrive in Mackay after departing from the Rockhampton Grammar School on the Queen’s Birthday long weekend.

The plane held four crew members and twenty-five passengers, with nine of those passengers being young students from the Rockhampton school.

It is believed that the local men and women aboard the plane were eager to arrive home in Mackay to visit parents and loved ones for the long weekend, however, in a tragic turn of events, the flight became Ill-fated and they never reached their destination.

Locals, to this day, still discuss the possible theories as to what went wrong on that day in 1960 - a day that was questionable to some and life-changing for others.

While the official cause of the aircraft crash remains an unknown mystery, it is said to have been a gloomy night with air that was filled with thick fog, sparking suggestions that it was merely impossible for the pilot to see what was ahead.

Past news reports suggest that at 8.30pm the aircraft hovered low over the airport runway in an attempt to land before suddenly regaining height over the strip. The plane then circled around Mackay until around 9.30pm before disappearing without a trace.

At 10.10pm an emergency alarm was finally made and at 10.45pm a public announcement was given to the families and awaiting crowd, declaring a loss of contact after receiving information that the radio had apparently failed.

The plane then crashed at Dudgeon Point, southeast of Mackay.

Each year, families of those lost to the tragedy still visit the headstone plaque located at far beach (also known as Illawong) to commemorate their loved ones.

Col Benson from Mackay RSL Sub Branch said that, “About twenty-five years ago, I was down here (at Far Beach) one afternoon when a lad came up and said ‘I helped make that plaque’ and he said that Mackay was in such grief that they needed something for people to focus their grief on.

“The plaque was unveiled about ten days after the crash and it’s believed they did it in their lunch hour.

“And here we see it standing sixty-four years later.”

Col Benson shared heart-breaking, yet touching stories of families who would devotedly visit the place of remembrance even after many years had passed.

An illustration of this was seen when Stewart Douglas Jackson's father would visit the memorial to commemorate his late son every Sunday, a tradition he upheld until his own passing about fifteen years ago.

Audrey Camilleri and Tyra Whales are another example of this, after sixty-four years, they still visit the memorial for their cherished brother, Edgar Dowse.

The two sisters were raised in Mackay and after many years, they still remember the incident like it was yesterday. Each year they bring along flowers and lay it down next to the stone monument in honour of their beloved brother.

Tyra and Audrey said, “It’s nice to have a place where we can commemorate him.”

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Audrey Camilleri and Tyra Whales visit their late brother Edgar Dowse every year to commemorate his legacy, following one of Mackay’s most tragic air crashes in regional aviation history. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Eight well-deserving non-profit organisations were presented with outstanding grants from the Mackay Community Foundation with a focus on bettering the community and making a difference.

The presentation ceremony showcased the selfless work that these organisations have contributed and highlighted the profound impact that the foundation has made in areas that need it most.

Mackay Community Foundation Chair Frances Easton announced that an anonymous donor was ensuring that the financial year of 24/25 would be a memorable one for our community.

“Thanks to an anonymous donor, every donation of $5,000 or more that the Mackay Community Foundation receives in the 2024/2025 financial year will be matched – dollar for dollar,” Ms Easton said.

“So effectively a $5000 donation, will become a $10,000 donation – a $25,000 donation, will be a $50,000 donation. The impact from this generous commitment will be felt by our community for as long as the Foundation stands.”

The eight grant recipients for 2024 included CQUniversity, Kidney Support Network, The Neighbourhood Hub, McDonald House Charities, Crossroad Arts, Community Accommodation & Support Agency (CASA), Share the Dignity and Australian Street Aid Project (ASAP).

Australian Steet Aid Project received another Foundation grant, following their first award of a $10,000 back in 2020 which established a “Specialist Homelessness Medical Fund” to assist homeless people with accessing medical care from GP’s, dentists and essential medical services.

The second, most recent 2024 fund provided by the Mackay Community Foundation was rightfully earned in support of their tireless efforts to engage and improve the lives of the homeless population in Mackay. The generous fund also assisted with transporting clients to medical appointments and filling scripts that are deemed essential to their mental and/or physical health by a GP.

This initiative was instrumental in improving the health and wellbeing of many individuals who would otherwise have limited access to such vital services.

At this year’s presentation, the Australian Street Aid Project achieved a significant milestone, thanks to an additional grant of $41,095 from the Mackay Community Foundation. This funding will enable the establishment of a dedicated medical centre next to their existing facilities, Chances, where the homeless can find respite during the day and receive nourishing meals.

With the new medical centre, the Australian Street Aid Project aims to transition from a reactive to a proactive approach in healthcare, providing timely medical assistance and preventive care to those in need.  

“We are thrilled to support the Australian Street Aid Project once again and witness their incredible progress,” said Ms Easton.

“Their commitment to improving the lives of the homeless in Mackay is truly inspiring, and this new medical centre is much needed in our community.”

To find out more about the Mackay Community Foundation or donate to local causes, visit www.mackaycommunityfoundation.com.

Congratulations to the following recipients of the 2024 Mackay Community Foundation Grants:

$5,000 – Central Queensland University UniCares MCF Emergency Grant, helping students financially who come into an emergency crisis, so as to assist them to continue with their studies
$7,997 – Kidney Support Network, funding of 2 modern point of sales machines for 2 community opportunity shops that KSN operate to ensure that they continue to fund their renal patient transport service
$10,000 – The Neighbourhood Hub – Oh Baby Program!, to support new Mums & Bubs from birth to 6 months to access support, information and social connections.
$12,000 – Ronald McDonald House Charities North Aust – Learning Program, that supports 5 local Mackay students for the cost of 40 hours of tutoring to assist in the journey back to school after receiving cancer treatment
$15,000 – Crossroad Arts – Loose Ends, funding the artist’s that will be participating in the Loose Ends Event. An event initiated to address the gap for inclusive night-time activities in the CBD for young people with disability.
$19,948 – Community Accommodation & Support Agency (CASA) – Homeless Expo, to support set up costs and packages, items, food and drinks for the Homeless.
$20,000 – Share the Dignity, funding the stock of 2 Dignity Vending Machines in Mackay for 2 years. These machines are positioned at CASA and The Neighbourhood Hub
$20,000 – Central Queensland University – U-Beach Project that aims to transfer beach access and inclusion for children, youths and adults with a disability in Mackay
$41,095 – Australian Street Aid Project (Chances) – to fund the establishment of a Homeless Health Clinic beside Chances House.

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CQUniversity, Kidney Support Network, The Neighbourhood Hub, McDonald House Charities, Crossroad Arts, Community Accommodation & Support Agency (CASA), Share the Dignity and Australian Street Aid Project (ASAP) received funding from the Mackay Community Foundation to continue their missions of bettering the region. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Nineteen-year-old Annabelle Munt left her hometown of Mackay just three weeks ago after moving to Melbourne to pursue a career in modelling.

Before the big move, she was employed at Blacks Real Estate but has since settled into the outskirts of Melbourne where she has already claimed a new apartment and full-time job as a property agent.

Reflecting on what Annabelle loves the most about the industry, she says that “Fashion helps me express myself in a way that gets me out of my shell from being shy.

“I think fashion is transformative, and I want to be a part of the industry.”

Last year she won the CQ Rescue Talent Search held by Brooke Lee Modelling and as part of her prize, she won a bid to compete in the QLD final of Top Model Australia, which she attended in May.

Due to her undeniable beauty and talent, Annabelle was selected as a finalist and will compete for the upcoming National title in Melbourne. Annabelle is thrilled to enter in hopes of winning this prejudice competition so that she can travel to London for the Internationals.

Since kickstarting her passion for modelling in grade 11, she has clutched the crown title for CQ Rescue along with securing the position as a finalist Crown for Miss Galaxy Australia in May.

In addition to these remarkable achievements, you may have seen her in commercial campaigns for Calanne, Canelands Central, Mackay Street Chaplaincy and Ma's Pizza Kitchen, which she is hoping to do more of in future.

On Sunday the 23rd of June, the overall winner will be announced at the biggest event of the Top Model season. The W Melbourne will host the exciting runway event, featuring contestants from all over Australia aspiring to launch their careers as an international model.

The selected winner will win the trip of a lifetime to compete in London on the International stage, and walk in London Fashion Week whilst there in September, 2024.

When she’s not competing for the top title in modelling, Annabelle loves singing, cheerleading and travelling and her biggest inspiration is her step-mother.

“Since the day I met my step-mum, she inspired me,” said Annabelle

“She is always elevating me to be my best even when I don’t feel like trying, she has always been there to help me and I love watching her push herself to thrive and seeing how she’s always busy pursuing the things she loves which I admire.

“Even though I’m not her own, she has always treated me like I am.”

With the determination to achieve her goals and a bubbly, positive personality, Annabelle is on the road to success and we wish her the very best in future!

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Mackay local, Annabelle Munt recently relocated to Melbourne to pursue her dream in the modelling industry and will compete for the international title. Photos supplied

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Embarking on the 20th year of excellence is The Whitsunday Voices Youth Literature Festival and tickets are selling out fast!

Schools, groups and individuals are encouraged to check out this incredible two-day line-up, featuring the largest youth literature festival north of the Sunshine coast with dates penned in place for the 11th and 12th of July at Whitsunday Anglican School Mackay.

Kate Ceberano, Belinda Murrell, James Foley and Nick Earls are just some of the many talented presenters, authors, poets, illustrators and performers who will grace 65 schools across the region in a quality fun-based learning experience.

With workshops and sessions catering for students from Preparatory to Year 12, there is something for everyone with over 80 program sessions and workshops during the two-day Voices Festival event to share the wonder of books and reading.

Festival Manager, Mrs Tracey Gurdler, said the Voices Festival team were incredibly excited to bring the 2024 Festival to fruition next month and to play a part in the journeys of the region’s youth in writing and literature.

“A personal highlight is watching the student’s faces light up as their favourite authors hit the stage, encouraging the next generation of readers and storytellers,” Mrs Gurdler said.

“Every year, the Voices Festival brings a different buzz amongst the attendees.

“To see children engaged and inspired in the fun of literature, reading, writing and sharing stories is a joy to witness, this is what Whitsunday Voices Literary Festival is all about,” she said.

Bringing his infectious energy and enthralling sessions is Nick Earls, who attended the first Festival event in 2004 and is now back to join the line-up for the 20th. Nick’s sessions and experience with 28 books to his name, provide students with the tools to be ‘word hunters’ themselves, and encourages a new way of thinking about language for both middle graders and seniors alike.

Hailing in over 35 books, and soon to be another is Belinda Murrell who is launching the next title in the loved series, The Daredevil Princess during the two-day Festival. Her interactive sessions cover the stories behind the stories, her inspiration, life as an author, and her creative writing process. The LitChat event on Thursday 11 July with Belinda also provides an exceptional professional development opportunity for teachers and educators.

Whitsunday Voices Youth Literature Festival 2024 will be held on 10-12 July 2024, on campus at Whitsunday Anglican School, with tickets on sale now. Students can purchase tickets individually, or as part of their School’s program.

To continue their contribution to the literacy, cultural legacy and social fabric for future generations, Whitsunday Voices Youth Literature Festival heavily relies on major sponsors and supporters in the local community.

For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit the website whitsundayvoices.com.au.

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The Whitsunday Voices Youth Literature Festival marks its 20th year with a stellar line-up promising an enriching literary experience for students from Prep to Year 12 at Whitsunday Anglican School Mackay on July 11th and 12th. Images supplied

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Mackay Regional Council Libraries are offering residents the chance to win two $250 EFTPOS gift vouchers simply by completing a 10-minute survey.
The survey, which is live now on connectingmackay.com.au, asks a variety of questions to help Libraries understand what residents’ ideal library service looks like.
Questions include what library services bring you to libraries, what branches you visit and whether you’d like to pick up reserved items from alternative locations, like shopping centres.
Feedback provided will be used to help council plan for future growth and the evolution of regional library services.
Residents can take the survey online at Connecting Mackay, by dropping into any library branch or visiting the team at the Mackay Show. Hard copies of the survey are also available on request.
The survey closes at 11.59pm on Sunday, June 30.
The two $250 vouchers will be drawn at 10am on Thursday, July 11, and the winners will be notified via the email address supplied on the entry form.

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Mackay Regional Council staff will begin scheduled maintenance of palm trees in the Mackay City Centre next week.
The maintenance will start on Tuesday, June 25, in Wood Street and will include removing dead fronds, cutting away visible fruit stalks and removing seed pods.
Arborists will be on site between the hours of 5am and 9am on weekdays and they will be carrying out maintenance on trees located on Wood, Victoria, Sydney, Macalister and Nelson streets, Matsuura Drive and Mangrove Road.
Work on Sydney Street has been scheduled for Saturday, June 29, at 5am to minimise disruption to the public and to avoid the heavy traffic flows on this road during the week.
The maintenance is expected to be completed by Thursday, July 4, weather permitting.
Full traffic control will be in place and some road/lane closures will be required during the work.
Residents are asked to obey all instructions from council staff and traffic control officers.
The work is part of council’s annual maintenance program.
For further information call 1300 MACKAY (622 529).

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Works on the Paradise and Webberley streets intersection in West Mackay have progressed to stage two.
Mackay Regional Council have completed the northern drainage and subgrade replacement for the entire project and will commence work on the southern stormwater drainage works, subbase pavement layer and pavement widening, and reconstruction of Webberley Street this week.
Traffic management will be in place and the intersection at Simpson and Webberley streets will be closed with local traffic access only.
The current road closures on Webberley Street, Simpson to Paget streets and George Milton Street will continue with local traffic access only.
Parking bays along Paradise Street, between Graffunder and Amiet streets, will be closed to allow for safe two-way traffic.
The northbound and southbound bus stops on Paradise Street have also been temporarily relocated to near Chauvel Street.
Council is upgrading the intersection at Paradise and Webberley streets to improve safety in the area.
The project includes additional lanes to facilitate two-lane through traffic, right turn signals from Paradise Street into Webberley Street, right turn signals from Webberley Street into Paradise Street, pedestrian signals through the intersection, a designated bike lane and pathway connectivity to existing pathways in Paradise Street, Webberley Street and the bus stop.
The project is due to be completed by December 2024.
For enquiries, please contact council on 1300 MACKAY (622 529).

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