Hi Everyone,

I came home this evening and for some unexplained reason I felt an overwhelming sense of sadness wash over me.

I can’t place the exact feeling, just a heavy weight of negative thoughts – I’m a terrible boss, I don’t have time for anyone! I am a terrible mum, I have no energy left at the end of the day! That sort of thing.

Each thought compounded and all of a sudden, my life was terrible and I was feeling fairly depressed.

Fortunately, I have learnt over the years that it is better to sit in your feelings rather than push them down or dismiss them. When you do this, they will soon depart.

So, I allowed myself to feel it. Work through it and give it the respect it deserved.

Of course, I had no reason to feel ‘down’ this evening. My life is pretty perfect – I have a family who loves me, a partner who adores me, friends that think I’m cool and a job I love.

With all these life goals already ticked – what did I have to be sad about?

Well, that’s the thing with life, and something I was reminded about again today when I chatted with Matt from Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN).

It’s not about needing a reason to work on your mental health, it’s about committing to an ongoing relationship with yourself, a relationship that needs constant nurturing.

When I spoke to Matt today, I loved hearing about the recent ‘Legends’ night where famous sports players and community heroes shared their mental health journeys.

It reminded me that there is power in prevailing and strength in showing vulnerability.

When I got home tonight and felt a little sad, it was comforting to draw upon thoughts of these inspiring people and I was able to relate to the story I’d just written – it really helped.

This is what I believe is so special about WSPN, they simply want everyone to know they are here and that you are not alone – put your hand up and talk – you will be heard.

Rach

Quote of the Week: “Almost anything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you” (Anne Lamott)

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In a display of community support, locals gathered from all walks of life to extend a helping hand at the Drug ARM Street Outreach Service in Airlie Beach.

On board with the powerhouse team was Shirley from Whitsunday Housing Company Limited, providing essential accommodation and wellbeing support.

Isaac from YWAM (Youth with a Mission – Whitsundays) ensures ongoing care and collaboration throughout the week, addressing various needs from housing to mental health services.

Patrick from Airlie Beach Crew also joined in, bringing his personal connection with homelessness to assist with the day’s BBQ.

Two ambulances were also present.

“We’ve recently had a bit to do with the QAS here with various events happening where our people have needed assistance,” said Mental Wellness Coach and Mentor, Barb Hill.

Her involvement along with Real Mates Talk and Family Support Facilitator for Drug ARM ensure that all bases are covered with a readiness to support those in need.  

With an outpour of community donations and a number of personal hygiene packs gifted from Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, the team are beyond grateful for all the support they have received.

“I appreciate everyone who supports what we do, from the bottom of my heart a big THANKYOU! We live in such an amazing community,” Barb added.

“If you or someone you know is doing it tough at the moment, please send them to join us on Mondays, no judgement, no pressure, just yarns, food, laughs and connection.”

The Drug ARM Street Outreach Service in Airlie is every Monday from 11am to 12:30pm at the Lagoons carpark and up at the BBQs at the point.

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Compassionate locals and respected community services gathered together in support of the Drug ARM Street Outreach Service last Monday. Image source: Barb Hill Coaching & Mentoring (Facebook)

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Over $20,000 was raised for the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN) event held in Cannonvale over the weekend but volunteer Matt Stokes said the fact that people knew the organisation was present within the community was even more valuable.

“Raising community awareness that we are here to talk was the biggest value of the night,” he expressed.

WSPN is an active charity organisation which is dedicated to raising awareness about suicide prevention and helping those impacted.

Any money donated goes directly to three key local initiatives; giving families effected by suicide free and immediate counselling when they need it most, school-based programs that educate children about mental health and weekly free breathwork sessions that help people with staying calm and present.

Each year WSPN hold regular fundraising events and last weekend’s ‘Legends on the Field,’ was a huge sell-out success with 130 people present on the night.

Attracting an all-star cast of speakers, NRL legend, Shane Webcke, former AFL player Peter ‘Spida’ Everitt, Brant Webb, and Rob Payne owner of Mark Twain yacht, each spoke about their experiences.

The evening was full of raw and powerful stories where each of the speakers shared details about their personal journeys.

Take-home advice included “put your hand up and talk” right through to mindset and an understanding that “life isn’t fair and it’s pretty tough getting up and doing the grind, but if you scratch beneath the surface most people are feeling the same.”

Speaker Brant Webb, who is one of the miners trapped at Beaconsfield Gold Mine in Tasmania in 2006, explained what was running through his head during the incident but also said his main battle was after the event.

“He was fine for many years,” said Matt.

“Then he was hit with medical anxiety and couldn’t physically het himself to work – he offered practical tips for getting back again.”

During the evening Matt Stokes also gave an insight into how WSPN actively helps the community and two courageous community members shared their own accounts of personal battles.

“They talked about their lived experiences, and it was heartbreaking,” explained Matt.

“But it was worth so much to see their raw emotion.”

WSPN’s next event is on September 10 on World Suicide Prevention Day, and they will be launching a Shine The Light Program and conducting a memorial service with blue lights on the Fig Tree on the Airlie Beach Foreshore at dusk.

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The dedicated volunteers and guest speakers at the ‘Legends on the Field’ event held at the Reef Gateway last weekend. Photo credit: Tropix Photography

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Four, two-bedroom units in Bowen are now under construction thanks to a $3.2 million government grant that was initiated by Bowen Community Centre.

Concerned about the shortage of suitable rental accommodation for working professionals such as doctors, nurses and teachers, the Community Centre decided to take matters into their own hands and apply for the grant.

“It is very difficult to get a rental in Bowen,” said Jacintha Bezgovsek from Bowen Community Centre.

“There is no accommodation for the professionals who service the community.”

The grant will be used to provide accommodation for professionals with the necessary skills to fill the gaps in the labour supply and ensure Bowen has enough front-line workers.

Bowen Community Centre is working with the Department of Education and local Doctors Surgeries and asking them to take the ‘lead’ on the lease to supply the units to their workers.

“Professional workers want a certain standard of building,” added Jacintha.

“And all that thought process has gone into the design of the new buildings.”

Each unit is totally self-contained and located in a gated community right in the centre of town on Kings Street.

Titled the Yaringa Housing Project, it is estimated that construction will take around 12 months.

Bowen Community Centre said it is delighted to reveal that local Bowen builder, Lowcock Builders, has been selected as the successful tenderer for this significant project.

“Their expertise and commitment to quality align perfectly with our vision for this initiative,” said Stephanie Cora from the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre.

The Chairperson of the Bowen Community Centre Christine Coventry added:

"This is what we wanted to achieve, and our motto here at the centre is that every dollar stays in our town."

“This project exemplifies our dedication to reinvesting in our community and ensuring that the benefits of such developments are felt locally.”

“This housing project is a testament to our commitment to providing essential support for the professionals who serve our community tirelessly.”

“We are excited to see the positive impact these new residential units will have on the lives of our frontline and professional workers.”

Funding for this project was announced in the recent State Budget and is part of the Resources Community Infrastructure Fund - Round 3.
 

The group from Bowen Community Centre and Lowcock Builders standing at the site where the four two-bedroom units will soon stand. Photo supplied

Shock news ricocheted across the tourism industry earlier this month when Tourism Whitsundays CEO Rick Hamilton left the top job citing, “personal reasons,” for his sudden departure.

Rick leaves behind him a legacy of success spearheading initiatives that significantly increased visitor engagement and overnight visitor expenditure.

Under his tenure, the Whitsundays reached a record-breaking $1.6 billion for the year ending in March 2023.

He will also be remembered for his work advocating for and supporting infrastructure projects that have improved accessibility and amenities for tourists, and significantly increasing the membership base, fostering collaboration and support within the local tourism community.

He was also dedicated to enhancing and attracting funding opportunities and connections within local, state, and federal governments.

Julie Telford, Chair of the Board, stated, "It is with great sadness that we announce the departure of our CEO.”

“Rick has decided to resign for personal reasons, intending to relocate back to Brisbane to be closer to family. We understand and respect Rick's reasons for this decision.”

“His vision and dedication will leave a lasting impact on our organisation and the region. The Board of Tourism Whitsundays is grateful for his achievements during his tenure and wishes Rick all the best. As the Chair of the Tourism Whitsundays Board, it has been an absolute pleasure working with Rick."

The Board of Tourism Whitsundays are currently searching for a new CEO and in the meantime Chair Julie Telford and Deputy Chair Tom Young are overseeing operations.

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Rick Hamilton former CEO of Tourism Whitsundays. Photo supplied

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Airlie Beach Race Week 2024 is fast approaching, and the anticipation is palpable as sailors and spectators prepare for this iconic event in the heart of the Whitsundays.

With more than 150 boats already registered, this year’s event will showcase an epic array of sailing yachts from trailer boats to Extreme 40s, making up approximately 16 racing classes.

Renowned for its thrilling races and vibrant social scene, this year’s regatta promises even more excitement both on and off the water.

One of the highlights onshore this year will be the Shoreside Long Lunch, a gastronomic feast featuring local seafood and produce, set on the balcony against the stunning waterfront backdrop of the Whitsunday Sailing Club.

This three-course ticketed event has limited numbers and is a highpoint of the Airlie Beach social scene year after year. Book your tickets now to secure your seat.

More onshore activities include the Creative Connections art exhibitions, showcasing works from local and regional artists that capture the essence of sailing the Whitsundays. Guests can even partake in onsite classes, including watercolour, pastel, felting and of course, Sip & Paint. Visit Creative Connections’ website for availability and booking.

Each evening, the Race Week Village at the Whitsunday Sailing Club becomes the hub of entertainment, with food vans, bars and nightly live music providing the perfect soundtrack to unwind after a day on the water.

With its mix of competitive racing, cultural events, and community spirit, Airlie Beach Race Week 2024 promises to be an unforgettable celebration of sailing and seaside fun.

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WHAT: Airlie Beach Race Week
WHERE: Whitsunday Sailing Club
WHEN: 8-15 August

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Sailing into Race Week

Prominent federal National Party hardman, fossil fuels supporter, climate change denier  and renewable energy sceptic Matt Canavan was in Bowen last week to spruik energy policy, LNP style.

Bowen Chamber of Commerce staged the Coffee with Senator Matt Canavan event at the Larrikin Hotel on Thursday July 11 in place of the usual evening monthly meeting to fit in with the senator's busy schedule.

Sen. Canavan, who is a regular commentator for Sky News, wasted no time in putting the blowtorch on the rapidly growing renewable energy sector to turn the debate towards a nuclear future for Australia, as outlined by LNP Leader Peter Dutton with a proposal to build seven nuclear plants around the country, featuring a mix of conventional and SMR (small modular reactor) plants. Under the plan, the closest nuclear plant could be built at Callide, near Gladstone.

Whitsunday Life asked Sen. Canavan how the LNP nuclear policy could be justified with the failures of the Edf project in France, the NuScale project in the US, and the Hinkley C project in the UK over cost and build time blowouts, and could the LNP assure the electorate that they could deliver SMRs as well as conventional nuclear plants on time and within budget, and affordable energy to the electorate?

"I'm in favour of a mix of all technologies," Sen. Canavan said, saying he understood the focus had been on SMRs and agreeing they had problems at present.

"We can do this," he said. "We built the Snowy Mountains Scheme, the LNG industry, our coal industry … Just invest in everything; don't put all your eggs in one basket."

"I think we need to use more coal and gas, too. If we don't build something, NSW will have blackouts soon."

Sen. Canavan is a staunch supporter of the Adani (now Bravus) coal project near Bowen and he became fired up over the protest movement against its expansion.

The project will result in 10 million tonnes of coal a year being exported, prompting Sen. Canavan to ask why protesters did not protest directly to India over their 160 million tonnes a year of domestically mined coal, claiming that "They've built 16 Adanis in just a year."

China, with 55 million tonnes, also prompted him to ask: "Where is the boycott of those countries? Why are they (protesters) not chaining themselves to the Chinese embassy?"

Electric vehicles also were in Sen. Canavan's sights and he claimed that Australia had "lost 10,000 jobs in nickel" because of a unfulfilled boom in demand for the metal in EV batteries. "We are just getting our pants pulled down, really," he said.

Of the "net zero" meetings in Glasgow, Sen. Canavan said: "We seem to be one country in the world that stands up for this. I think we need to stand up against this. We are going to wake up in a completely different country soon."

Sen. Canavan expressed his concern about the lack of corporate involvement and support for energy sector reform. "It is my biggest regret that the corporate sector has fallen behind in recent years … We need to have some corporate leaders stand up," he said. "The most dangerous thing is that we all want to get along."

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Sen. Matt Canavan enjoys catching up with Bowen Chamber of Commerce chairman Bruce Hedditch. Photo credit: Paul Gellatly

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Winter water-lovers are warned that the Bowen Water Park will be temporarily closed from Monday 15 July, to Monday 29 July.

Scheduled inspection and maintenance will be undertaken on the bucket and the red slide will receive minor repairs.

Council thanks you for your patience and understanding while we undertake this maintenance.

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Did you know, that during the winter harvest season from May to November, North Queensland contributes nearly 90% of Queensland's tomato production? That’s a total of more than 40,000 tonnes annually!

Helena De Bortoli, regional coordinator for Pick of the Crop in North Queensland, recommends incorporating tomatoes into sandwiches, lunchboxes or pastas to enhance children's vegetable consumption.

Ideal for the whole family, cherry and grape tomatoes are not only nutritious but also budget-friendly, making them a top pick for shoppers during Queensland's bustling tomato season.

“Tomatoes have to be the most versatile vegetable going: you can eat them fresh or cooked, add them as a sauce or paste, enjoy them as a side dish or as the main squeeze,” Ms De Bortoli said.

“They are also an excellent source of nutrients, including lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that gives tomatoes their red colour and helps protect us from heart disease and some cancers.

“What I love about our region is that so many growers are selling their tomatoes at their roadside stalls, helping to make fresh tomatoes highly accessible and affordable for our community.”

Bowen Gumlu Growers Association (BGGA) supports Health and Wellbeing Queensland’s whole-school healthy eating initiative Pick of the Crop, which aims to increase opportunities for Queensland primary school students to learn about and eat more vegetables and fruit.

“Tomatoes are part of the Aussie staple diet – smaller varieties like cherry or grape tomatoes are perfect to snack on and for throwing into salads, while larger varieties like gourmets and eggs are perfect for sandwiches and cooking,” Mr Walker said.

“Buying local and in-season is a great way to support growers, and to make sure you’re getting bang for your buck when buying your vegetables.”

For more recipes and healthy eating ideas, visit hw.qld.gov.au.

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Following the success of the inaugural Welcome Whales Festival last year, the second annual event took place on Friday last week, with over 200 people attending.

Poor weather saw the event move location at the last minute from Airlie Beach Foreshore to Proserpine Entertainment Centre and organisers said they were thankful Whitsunday Regional Council were able to offer an alternative facility enabling the event to go ahead.

A celebration of Indigenous Culture and the deeper meaning of whales within our local culture and history, the event aims to educate, enthral and inspire people to understand more about how whale season connects with us all.

Organised by community-led initiative, Whales of the Whitsundays (WOW), the event fosters and shares cultural connection.

Traditional owners who sit on the steering committee of WOW had been keen to share the story of their connection with whales and the Welcome Whales Festival is a vehicle for this.

“The festivals helps people realise how significant this time of year is for Traditional Owners,” said Olivia Brodhurst, President of WOW.

“This is a time of year where mother whales are calving and it is also the same time of year for ‘Women’s Business’ for Indigenous people.”

The Welcome Whales Festival offered attendees the opportunity to immerse themselves in both nature and Indigenous culture.

From basket weaving experiences to bush tucker tasting and information from Yooribaya Cultural Experiences, there was plenty of knowledge to soak-up.

Two pieces of artwork from Giya Ngaro woman Casey McAvoy were also commissioned for the event and then given to platinum sponsors.

Guests of the festival could browse these works and other art pieces at the exhibition, they could also purchase merchandise from the WOW stall with proceeds going back to the organisation.

The formalities of the festival included a welcome ceremony, traditional dancing and storytelling.

This was followed by the premier of the “Whale Nation” cinematic experience.

Plans are already underway for the event to return for its third iteration next year.

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The Welcome Whales Festival Indigenous dance performance. Photos supplied
The WOW stall offering signature merchandise
Some of the incredible artwork on display

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The year is hitting its stride and there have been a number of regional developments the Chamber wishes to share.
 
Business Chamber Queensland’s March 2024 Quarter Pulse Survey shows a grim view of Queensland businessowner perceptions on sales, employment, and profitability decline. The report reveals the longest sustained no-confidence business trend since mid-2022. Our Chamber is keen to hear from you, if you share the same views and experiences.
 
Last month, Whitsunday Regional Council announced its 2024-25 budget. It’s great news for residents and addressing legacy issues however the burden of the Council’s forecast profit is being placed upon business and agriculture who will experience an eight per cent rate and 12 per cent utility charge increases, which will inevitably be passed on to the customer with increased prices.
 
Council has also refined its Airlie Beach pedestrian trial, with work undertaken to re-open four pedestrian crossings as vehicle priority areas. The Chamber and main street businesses are supportive of Council’s intention for Airlie Beach – ‘A place for people’ with the goal of reducing through-traffic and making the main street more pedestrian friendly.

The trial failed to reduce through-traffic and the only improvement for pedestrians at four poorly placed pedestrian crossings. To spend money on making that failure permanent doesn’t make sense. Two thirds of vehicles in Airlie are simply driving through – creating congestion that is of no benefit to businesses or visitors. An opportunity has been missed here to reduce through-traffic by 50 per cent and genuinely make Airlie Beach a place for people – not cars. We will continue to collect Chamber member feedback so we can bolster our advocacy on the main street’s safety and prioritising trader needs.
 
We also welcome Uber to the region. However, with the introduction of Uber comes competition and customer choice, and we encourage the region’s existing taxi fleet and private transport providers to re-appraise their business model and their service delivery to ensure they remain competitive.
 
The Chamber is hosting a range of exciting business education events in August. Jump online to learn more and register.

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The Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF), a collaboration between Whitsunday Regional Council and the Queensland Government, supports local arts and cultural initiatives. This fund helps bring diverse and inclusive arts projects to life, offering real training and employment opportunities for artists in our community. With several funding rounds each year, it's a great chance for local creatives to bring their projects to life and make a lasting impact. If you're involved in the arts, consider applying to help grow our vibrant cultural scene! See our website for more details https://bit.ly/WRCgrantscommunityassistance

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I am excited to be hosting my first Mayor’s Charity Ball at the amazing Proserpine Entertainment Centre on Saturday, September 21, 2024.

This will be an opportunity to come together, not only to celebrate our vibrant community, but more importantly to raise funds and support two incredible local charities: RACQ CQ Rescue and the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network.

As many of you know, RACQ CQ Rescue provides an invaluable service to our Whitsunday region, offering rapid response medical assistance and airlift capabilities that save lives.

The Whitsundays account for over 40 per cent of RACQ CQ Rescue’s regional tasks, so by supporting them, we are directly contributing to the life-saving operations that keep our community safe in times of critical need.

Their unwavering commitment to saving lives, often in challenging circumstances, is truly awe-inspiring.

While no one is in a hurry to call on this great service, we can sleep well knowing that in our time of need, RACQ CQ Rescue will always be there for our loved ones. 

From out west to Mt Coolon, north to Guthalungra, Gumlu and Wangaratta Creek, south to Proserpine and the O’Connell River or Airlie Beach and the 74 beautiful islands, and all our communities in between - wherever an emergency arises, a rescue is always possible.

Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network is my other chosen charity to benefit from the Mayor’s Ball because mental health is a vital aspect of our community’s overall well-being.

The Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network works tirelessly to provide support, education, and intervention to prevent suicide and offer hope to those struggling with mental health issues.

The Whitsundays face serious mental health challenges, including high rates of suicide and substance abuse. WSPN delivers essential early intervention and support, raises awareness, reduces stigma, and connects individuals with help through local and national partnerships.

The 2024 Mayor's Charity Ball promises to be an evening of elegance, entertainment, and heartfelt giving. It is an opportunity for us to reflect on the importance of community support and to rally together for causes that make a real difference in the lives of our friends, families, and neighbours.

I invite all residents and businesses to join us for this special night. Your participation and generosity will not only ensure the success of this event but will also provide essential support to these two outstanding organisations.

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Tourism Whitsundays hosts journalists to showcase the diverse experiences our region offers. Recently, we hosted Urban List for a five-day famil trip, focusing on the youth and adventure experiences that best showcase our destination.
Keep an eye on the Urban List website and the Urban List Travel social media platforms for a glimpse of the featured experiences and accommodations designed for those looking for an adventurous holiday. Whether it's exploring the best of the mainland, snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef, or experiencing adrenaline pumping outdoor activities, The Whitsundays truly has something for everyone.
We are always seeking passionate operators to collaborate with, ensuring each experience is tailored to highlight the unique offerings of our region. If you’re interested in getting involved or need more information, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at
pr@tourismwhitsundays.com.au

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Contributed by Rosanagh Gallivan, PR & Social Media Executive, Tourism Whitsundays

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Journalist, Isabel Croker, who went on a famil trip

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Last Saturday, as people gathered at the Whitsunday Marine Club to celebrate the new VMR Headquarters and the 60th anniversary of VMR, another exciting event took place; the release of the brand new VMR history book, ‘The History of VMR Whitsunday.’
The book takes you on a journey through time from the inception of the VMR in 1960 to its evolution into a professional rescue institution. It details the dedication of its volunteers and the evolution of VMR vessels alongside pivotal moments and gripping rescue missions that shaped its identity.
President Mal Priday, Marlene Manto, Larraine Biggs, Alan Midley, Brian Richardson, Carmel Pyatt, and numerous others who dedicated their time and effort behind the scenes collaboratively created the project.
Having sadly missed the VMR’s 50th Birthday, President Mal Priday knew they had to do something to find out more about the institution's history:
“We missed the 50th and when I became aware of that five years ago, I started doing a load of research,” Mal explained.
Marlene Manto, one of the contributors to the book added that they, “pulled together a project team, going through everything from microfiche at the old Proserpine Guardian through to photos of the museum.”
Marlene also mentioned that volunteers went round to all the families of the founding members and asked them if they could go through their own photo albums.
“There was this two or three years of collection process before I came on board, and I said, I'll give you a hand with that,” Marlene explained.
Marlene noted that the volunteers were not sure about how to proceed with making their research into a book and that's where, herself, and contributor Larraine Biggs stepped in. The pair took the research that had been collected and began interviewing, which took many hundred hours.
The volunteers want to emphasise that the book is for everyone:
“My vision is that this is not just for VMR people, this is not just for boating people, this has to be for everybody. I want everybody to pick it up and be excited by the stories, the rescues, by the tenacity of some of these people, there are stories about going out in a cyclone in Proserpine,” Marlene said passionately.
The book launch on Friday was full of stories and people reconnecting, while individuals reunited over cups of tea:
“The beauty of the book launch was having the family members of the members who first met in that pub in Proserpine and having them share stories with people they hadn't seen for ages,” Larraine Biggs enthused.
When asked about the launch of the book President Mal Priday voiced, “It's all come together very well, and from all accounts been really well received.”
Mayor Ry Collins also wanted to congratulate individuals on the release of the book:
“A big congratulations to the VMR team on the publication of their book ‘The History of VMR Whitsunday’ which is a great historical document that chronicles the challenges and triumphs of the Volunteer Rescue Marine team.”

The book is available for purchase on the VMR’s website:
https://vmrwhitsundays.com.au/our-history/

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Larraine Biggs and Marlene Manto handing out the books at the grand opening
Andrew Wilcox and Life Member and former Vice-President Tom Manning.
Mal Priday and Marlene Manto standing proud with new history book

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