Life changed significantly for 11-year-old Callum Brown when he was diagnosed with diabetes; but a new program is helping kids like him feel supported at school and giving their parents peace of mind.
Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) is one of two pilot sites outside of Brisbane to run the Diabetes in Schools program, an information and training program designed to help schools better support students with Type 1 diabetes.
Callum, a Year 6 Emmanuel Catholic College student, was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at age nine after serious complications put him in a coma in the intensive care unit at Mackay Base Hospital.
During National Diabetes Week (14 to 20 July), Callum’s mum Jordan Martin recalled his diagnosis in November 2022, describing it as “traumatic and very stressful”.
“Managing his diabetes now is a 24/7 job and it impacts everything Callum does from what he eats to the sports he plays as well as the other activities he can participate in at school,” Jordan said.
“As parents, it’s scary to send your child to school and hand over his care to someone else. It’s very important that Callum is healthy and supported both at home and at school so he can achieve and enjoy school like any other child.”
The program provides access to a range of tools, resources, information and support as well as face-to-face practical training by qualified health professionals including Mackay HHS diabetes educator Yolanda Gibbons.
The program eased the anxiety of families in knowing that a range of staff at their child’s school were trained and knew what to do and how to help when needed, Yolanda said.
“We currently have 105 diabetic patients aged from one to 20 across the Mackay HHS requiring different levels of support, but this particular program focuses on children attending primary and high school,” she said.
“All school staff can be trained across a range of topics including administering insulin, what to do if the child’s blood sugar levels are too high or too low and how to use a variety of insulin pumps.”
Jordan said it was an enormous relief to know the training was available and that Emmanuel College had been “fantastic and supportive” about staff taking advantage of the education program.
“It means we are less anxious and know that the school staff are comfortable and confident in managing Callum’s condition,” she said.
Callum now wears a Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) which tracks his glucose levels, day and night. The unit sounds an alarm if his blood glucose levels are changing rapidly, Jordan said.
“Callum still has to check his levels before he eats and then calculate how many carbs are in his next meal to program it into the CGM,” she said.
“I had originally worried he wouldn’t advocate for himself, but Callum knows his symptoms sometimes before they even register on the CGM and he tells the teacher when he doesn’t feel great so they can help him.
“He is coping well and is confident in telling people at school what he needs so they can help.”
Mackay Base Hospital paediatrician Dr Shaun Cousen said the education program improved the care available to Type 1 diabetic children in rural and regional centres.
“This program is funded by the National Diabetes Service Scheme through the Queensland Children’s Hospital and is run locally by a qualified diabetic educator,” he said.
“Mackay is very lucky to be selected as one of only two pilot sites across the entire state and we have received some fantastic feedback from schools as well as children and their families.”
The Diabetes in Schools program is funded by the Australian Government through the National Diabetes Service Scheme to help kids with Type 1 diabetes thrive at school.

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11-year-old Mackay schoolboy Callum Brown wears a Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) to track his blood glucose levels

I’m a big fan of liberalism and the central belief of that philosophy that focuses on the individual and his/her rights in a capitalist, free market democracy.
However, I am clearly in the minority as the world increasingly defines people by the group to which they are seen to belong: if you are black or gay or Muslim or a woman, for example, you are allocated your group and the world is somehow supposed to view you through that lens rather than as the individual you are with your own specific views, interests, desires and expectations.
I won’t go too far into that philosophical discussion except to admit I am part of the most offensive of all groups; white, middle-aged, middle-class men. Disgusting pigs!
There was a time when the only group categorisation I knew of, apart from male and female, was Baby Boomers. There were Baby Boomers and there was everyone else.
Later the marketing people/social demographers came up with Gen X, then Gen Y or the Millennials, Gen Z … and on it goes.
I have to admit it is convenient to be able to use that age-based categorisation to assess the habits and behaviour of a particular group.
The ABC recently had a piece about Millennials in relation to real estate. It found that Millennials (born between 1981 and 1996) have been priced out of the market in big capital cities and are now looking to regional areas.
The report pointed out that the median price for a house in Sydney is $1.4m and this was forcing Millennials who live there to look for other options to buy.
The focus of the report was on one couple who have decided to buy in regional Lake Macquarie, where the median price is “just” $925,000.
The post-COVID, cyber-enabled world has created an environment where people can work from home and live regionally. That has allowed millennials to move to regional areas, become home-owners and, in many cases, keep their city jobs.
With Mackay’s median price of just under the $500,000 mark, it looks a lot more affordable than other regional centres (let alone capital cities) and there is no doubt this is driving the booming investor interest in our market.
We are also starting to see Millennials arrive and snap up properties.
The move to regional areas is having an impact on prices. The ABC report pointed out that the migration to regional Queensland centres has pushed up prices, in particular in the Gold and Sunshine coasts.
So what happens when the arrival of those Millennials pushes up the prices in those big regional centres in the south-east? Many of the people living there look further afield to less expensive regional centres to buy a home. Enter Mackay.
In Mackay we are getting price-pressure from investors who see terrific rental returns on affordable properties, Millennials and others who buy here because they can’t afford big city prices and, now, from people from the big regional centres. And then there’s the locals.
It is a dynamic environment with Mackay now very much part of the real estate story in Australia.
Mackay’s high rental yields, comparatively low sale prices, high income levels, low rental vacancies etc are all part of the story. I am not going to predict the future but I do know that local people who thought prices were too high five or six months ago and didn’t buy then are now in a higher market.
One thing locals do need to understand is that you are not just competing against other locals. It is a much bigger pool than that and the competition has money and sees this place as under-priced.

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Mackay’s Kutta Mulla Gorinna Special Assistance School is ready to grow following the State Government's granting of a 30-year lease for a new location. The school will be based on the site of the city’s old fire station on Sydney Street which closed in 2018.

This pivotal development will allow the school to expand and enhance its facilities, all aimed at creating a nurturing and advanced learning environment for Mackay’s youth.

Kutta Mulla Gorinna Special School specialises in providing educational opportunities for young people who have disengaged from mainstream education.
The school places a strong emphasis on understanding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, community connection, and delivering personalised support to its students.
 
Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert said that the Kutta Mulla Gorinna Special Assistance School holds a special place in the Mackay community, and this new location will provide unparalleled opportunities.

“We are committed to helping young people achieve their full potential, regardless of their postcode, and I am thrilled about the prospects this new facility brings for both students and staff,” she said.

“This is just another way we are engaging with at risk youth because we know education is so important for people’s futures.

“This new facility will also give the local economy a boost, supporting jobs and opportunities for local trades and businesses during the construction phase and beyond.

“It’s a win-win for our community, providing both educational and economic benefits.”
 
Resources and Critical Minerals Minister, Scott Stewart said, “This lease came about after I met with the school at the Mackay Community Cabinet earlier this year and is a great example of government listening to the community.

“This is what Community Cabinet is all about – listening and working with the community – and I’m proud to be part of the Miles Government that will continue to do just that.”
 
Kutta Mulla Gorinna School executive school director Justin Giblett said the Kutta Mulla Gorinna School has made a difference to so many young people’s lives.

“That’s exactly why it’s so important to find a new permanent home for the school which is continuing to grow,” Mr Giblett said.

“We have a major emphasis on engaging with young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and their culture.

“I’m so thankful for the Queensland Government to help us find a new home so we can continue to help support young people in their educational journey.”

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Members of the Kutta Mulla Gorinna Special Assistance School

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Hundreds of lucky locals and visitors were invited onto Cape Hillsborough Beach earlier this month, for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. 
 
Between The Tides, a signature event of QLD Music Trails’, The Reef Trail capped off its back-to-back two-night run with a headline performance by multi-ARIA Award winner, prolific singer-songwriter, Josh Pyke.
 
The QLD Music Trails is a program run by Queensland Music Festival (QMF) and known for using the power of music to create experiences perfectly unique to place. In its sophomore year, Between The Tides delivered two nights of music and yarns, with Christine Anu on Saturday night and Josh Pyke on Sunday night, for an intimate audience of just a few hundred on the sands of Cape Hillsborough beach, Yuwi Country.
 
QMF CEO Daryl Raven explained the importance of an event such as this.

“It’s incredible to come back to Cape Hillsborough and be with the Yuwi People again, welcoming us on Country to have these phenomenal events.

“We’re bringing significant artists, but more often than not it’s about the nature and the beauty of the place. It’s never been done before and we’re privileged to come back here and do it for a second year.”, he said on Saturday afternoon as the crowds started rolling in for the first night.

With a near-impossible task ahead of them, the QMF Team of experienced arts workers, together with Yuwi Corp, Rangers, and Cultural Guides, coordinated a full event bump in and out, quite literally between the tides on both Saturday and Sunday. 
 
With the commitment to leaving only footprints, the staging and audio equipment was strategically built on the sand as the tide went out during the day and was swiftly packed down as the tide rolled back in under the stars.
 
Each night featured a performance by Gunggari performer Lloyd Saunders in the Gathering Space, before Uncle Gary Mooney, Yuwi Elder and Traditional Owner invited guests onto the beach through a Smoking Ceremony, encouraging the crowd to remove their shoes to really feel the Country before being wowed by the Tchundal Malar Aboriginal Dancers. Mackay local and Lama Lama performer, Tia Gostelow serenaded the crowd as the sun set on both nights before headline acts.
 
Uncle Gary Mooney, Yuwi Elder and Traditional Owner acknowledged the significance of the event, perfectly placed ahead of a busy and celebratory NAIDOC Week. Speaking of the opportunity to showcase his Country to locals and visitors, he said, “I love it when a plan comes together, and I enjoy that.

“Everybody is enjoying themselves and having a good time, asking questions.”
 
Sunday delivered an incredibly unique experience, with Josh Pyke taking time to meet and connect with the Tchundal Malar Aboriginal Dancers during his sound check. An engaged lifetime Ambassador for the Indigenous Literacy Foundation and avid supporter of Indigenous music and arts development, this event provided a meaningful opportunity to connect with young artists and traditional stories.  
 
“Thank you to QLD Music Trails for putting on such a unique event and to the crowd for making the effort to come to this beautiful location so we can experience this together,” Pyke exclaimed on stage during the Sunday night gig. 
 
Shortly after, a true display of connection with Country and the Sub-Tropical environment saw a surprise shower come down that certainly didn’t dampen the crowd’s or Pyke’s enthusiasm. Taking a quick break to save the instruments from the wet, he returned to stage solo (although still accompanied by AUSLAN interpreter) for an altered, acoustic set to close out the special night.

The Reef Trail extended through paradise to the serene shores of Lake Proserpine last weekend. Hundreds came together for the final stop, The Reef Sundowner, a free event, which delivered on its promise of an afternoon filled with acoustic folk music and delectable local food amidst a breathtaking lakeside location. Trail-goers and visitors were invited to set up camp and spend the night at the nearby Lake Proserpine campground – flip over to see our article and gallery on page 21 in Whitsunday Life.
 

QLD Music Trails' Between The Tides event marked a historic convergence of music, culture and natural beauty on Yuwi Country, delighting attendees with its unique charm and scenic backdrop. Images supplied

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The brand-new VMR Headquarters was officially opened last weekend, with invited guests and dignitaries celebrating both a new era of operations and an epic history spanning an incredible 60-year period.
Guests were offered a tour of the newly expanded VMR facility which had been brought about following the consistent lobbying of both Member for Dawson, Andrew Wilcox and Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm.
The extension, which nearly doubled the floor space of the operational room, began in 2023 and is thanks not only to the politicians that advocated for funding but also the VMR volunteers and tradespeople that drove the project on the ground level.

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Volunteer Roger Wodson, Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Wilcox, Volunteer Marlene Manto, Mayor Ry Collins, Member for Whitsundays Amanda Camm, Volunteer Mal Priday. Photo credit: Ruth Puddefoot

A New Era Of Safety Begins
With Expanded VMR Headquarters Opening!

This year marks 60 years since the Volunteer Marine Rescue (VMR), began in a pub in Proserpine, back then, at the launch of Queensland's first VMR, the volunteers and founders could have never imagined how far the VMR would come.
After gaining a federal grant of $700,000 in 2023, the execution of the extension to the VMR headquarters began and has been completed just in time to celebrate the 60-year milestone.
Whitsunday VMR President, Mal Priday, enthused about how the expansion will be vital for marine emergency call-outs but also as a hub for many community events:
“The Marine Club is a very popular venue in the community and a community asset,” Mal explained.
Attendees at the opening included Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox, Member for Whitsundays Amanda Camm, Mayor Ry Collins, and Councillors Jan Clifford and Clay Bauman.
The day began on the lawn of the Marine Club in the sunshine where President Mal Priday welcomed attendees and speeches began:
“We are very proud of what we have achieved to date,” Mal emphasised.
“The support we get from the community is fantastic,” he added.

Rodger Wodson, a VMR volunteer who hugely contributed to the efforts to gain funding, followed shortly after, expressing gratitude to the government and Andrew Willcox for obtaining approval for the grant.
Mayor Ry Collins, also spoke at the event, and said the VMR Whitsunday building upgrade is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the local VMR team who have tirelessly served the community:
“With a new radio room with upgraded technology and meeting rooms that will be available for community use, the renovations will enhance their ability to provide critical maritime safety services for boaties,” he said.

Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm, then took to the stage to thank the VMR members for their tireless efforts in keeping the community safe.
After successfully securing funding for the organisation last year, Federal MP Andrew Wilcox, concluded the speeches and awarded the medals to four volunteers.
“The work that VMR Whitsundays do is crucial when it comes to keeping out boasties and fishers safe on the water, which is why I was incredibly proud when the previous Coalition Government committed to supporting this invaluable organisation and their volunteers, and I am honoured to be here today to officially open the new operations and training centre,” Mr Willcox began.
Federal MP Andrew Wilcox officially opened the new headquarters with the cutting of a ribbon, before, individuals were invited to view the new headquarters, and enjoy some refreshments downstairs.  
VMR President Mal Priday, enthused over the day's events and stated:
“It's been a long, long process. But with support that we got from all sides of government; we've made it we've got it.”

Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox and Mayor Ry Collins with the volunteers from VMR Whitsundays. Photo credit: Ruth Puddefoot
Mal Priday President of VMR Whitsundays, Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox, volunteer Rodger Wodson and Member for Whitsundays Amanda Camm
The new control headquarters. Photo credit: R Jean Photography
VMR Whitsundays’ volunteers. Photo credit: R Jean Photography

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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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