Zonta Clubs from all over North Regional Queensland gathered in the Whitsundays in May for a weekend of friendship, fun and activity.

The weekend started with welcome drinks which were held at the Coral Sea Resort on Friday 17 May.

This was followed by the Area 5 meeting which was conducted in Coral Sea Resort’s function room on Saturday.

The meeting began with an opening by the Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor, Ry Collins.

During the day, District Governor, Lyn Agnew gave several presentations on various topics including, ‘Achieving More in 2024’, ‘Zonta Australia Caucus’, and ‘Zonta Convention Brisbane 2024’.

Other Zonta presentations were given by Sue Wicks from Mount Isa.

Sue formed a group discussion about ‘The Zonta Spirit’.

Jenni Ziesemer, the Zonta Foundation Ambassador, spoke about the various options for donations.

In addition, each Club gave a presentation about the work they had done over the year and plans for the future.

44 members were able to attend on the day, including District 22 Governor Lyn Agnew, one guest and three guest speakers.

Following the meeting, a casual dinner was held at Paradiso Restaurant in Airlie Beach.

The next Zonta meeting will be on June 13 at 5.30pm, if interested call 0418 787 300.

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Photos supplied

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This week, the Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine celebrates 12 years of serving the Whitsundays community.  
The locally owned and operated Branch opened its doors 5 June 2012 and is one of 322 community banks across Australia.
The Bendigo Community Bank model is unique.
“Our success is based on our profit-with-a-purpose model which sees around 50 per cent of the profits generated by our independently owned and operated Community Bank branch invested back into the community” said Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine Chairman Mark Henry.
The establishment of the Branch was backed by local shareholders who saw the value of the Community Bank model and raised $800,000 locally to establish a branch in the Whitsundays.
This journey started in 2009 where a passionate group of locals formed a Steering Committee to undertake work to assess the feasibility of establishing a community bank and help raise necessary local investment. This group worked tirelessly delivering flyers, newsletters, hosting information stalls at local supermarkets and cafes, canvassing businesses and community groups, holding public meetings, and conducting media interviews to gather support.
In 2011 the Whitsundays Community Enterprises Limited (WCEL) formed and appointed owner-operator of the Branch, with Jeff Law appointed the inaugural Chair, Anton Yuskan Secretary, and Krys Halsey Treasurer.
Today, the WCEL Board is Chaired by Mark Henry (since 2019) along with long-standing Treasurer Krys Halsey and Board members Cait Fleming, Ross Hughes, and Kim Porter.
“We thank our shareholders for backing the Whitsundays community and providing an essential banking service, and all the passionate local Directors past and present for their hard work and dedication,” said Mark.
This year the Branch welcomed Amanda Anderson as its new Branch Manager.
“She is a welcome inclusion for our Branch team – joining Chantelle, Danica, Kristy, Kareen, and Natasha – and we look forward to their contribution in 2024 and beyond,” said Mark.
Over the past eight years Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine has invested just over $201,500 into local schools, social programs, sporting groups, arts and culture events, conservation initiatives, and community prizes.

Most weekends Whitsunday locals will also see the Branch’s fully equipped Community Trailer and BBQ out and about at sporting and community events.
Applications for sponsorship and the Community Trailer are now open. Email the Branch’s Board Secretariat on secretary@whitsundaycel.com.au for more information.

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Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine’s Board: Ross Hughes, Mark Henry, Cait Fleming and Krys Halsey. Photo supplied

Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine’s dedicated team: Kirsty, Kareen, Amanda and Danica. Photo supplied

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The Freight Distribution Centre at Whitsunday Coast Airport offers a streamlined one-stop-shop for all types of freight, simplifying the shipping process from start to finish. Notably, pet owners can now transport their pets directly from the Whitsundays, avoiding trips to Mackay or Townsville, thanks to the centre's full-service capabilities. Whether it's perishable goods, general cargo, or precious pets, the Freight Distribution Centre at Whitsunday Coast Airport makes shipping and receiving more accessible and efficient. For more information visit www.whitsundaycoastfreight.com.au

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I have been in Brisbane since Wednesday for multiple meetings with Queensland Government Minsters to advocate for funding and turn a spotlight on priority issues for the Whitsunday region.
 
It is my belief that the relationship between local, state, and federal governments should be a partnership built on mutual support and shared goals rather than always criticising a lack of funding.
 
I have had high-level meetings with multiple Ministers over the past two days and some of the issues discussed include confirmed funding for Hamilton Plains flood proofing and Shute Harbour boat ramp; advocacy for the Skyway project and other major projects; infrastructure funding to support the fast growing Whitsunday Coast Airport; infrastructure planning support for the Bowen Pipeline and Water project; lack of affordable social housing in the Whitsunday region; and increased funding for Yellow Crazy Ants and feral pigs and dogs control.
 
One of the most critical areas where state and federal funding is indispensable is in infrastructure development with regards to water, waste, and sewage.
 
These projects are often costly and beyond the financial capacity of local councils alone so by working together with all tiers of government we can continue to improve the lives of our residents and build a brighter future for all.
 
Addressing environmental challenges requires significant resources so state and federal funding supports local initiatives aimed at reducing carbon emissions, protecting natural habitats, and promoting sustainable practices.
 
For instance, grants for renewable energy projects or conservation programs enable Council to implement green policies that might otherwise be financially unfeasible.
 
Asset management remains a key focus for Council because by looking after our assets, we are looking after our community and ensuring that Council can continue to deliver the services for future generations.
 
However, the ability for Council to deliver these responsibilities effectively depends significantly on the financial support they receive from both the state and federal governments.
 
Investments from state and federal governments also help stimulate our local economy by funding projects that create jobs and attract businesses.
 
An example are regional development grants that can be leveraged to improve local amenities, making our communities more attractive places to live and work.
 
This, in turn, leads to increased investment, tourism, and economic opportunities for our residents.
 
The funding provided by state and federal governments is not just about direct financial assistance; it is about ensuring that diverse regional councils like the Whitsundays have the resources needed to build vibrant, resilient, and sustainable communities.
 
It is my intention to make these visits to Parliament House in Brisbane, and to Canberra, regularly to ensure the Whitsunday region is always front of mind for the Queensland Government with regards to funding and partnership opportunities.

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Tourism Whitsundays headed to Melbourne last week, making a splash at the Australian Tourism Exchange (ATE), which is Tourism Australia’s largest annual trade event.

ATE brings together all Australian tourism businesses with global distribution partners for business appointments and key networking events.

Industry Development and Trade Manager, Cait Fleming, and Marketing Manager, Laura Knipe had a whirlwind week, securing over 100 meetings with international travel partners.

From tour wholesalers and airline representatives to travel agents, they showcased the Whitsundays' experiences and beauty of the region to key partners.

The two were joined by thirteen local operators who participated in presentations, industry briefings, and networking events and allowed operators to connect directly with the travel industry.

Public Relations and Social Media Executive, Rosanagh Gallivan also played a key role at the International Media Marketplace, forging connections with influential travel journalists.

By promoting unique Whitsundays stories and product offerings, Rosanagh aimed to secure positive media coverage and shine a spotlight on our region. 
 Contributed with thanks to Cait Fleming, Industry Development and Trade Manager, Tourism Whitsundays.

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Tourism Whitsunday, Industry Development and Trade Manager Cait Fleming, Public Relations and Social Media Executive Rosanagh Gallivan, and Marketing Manager Laura Knipe, Photo supplied.

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Would you love more media coverage for your business?

Don’t know where to start, or want to try something different?

Getting quality media coverage is a vital part of building your business brand and sales. But many businesses of all sizes often don’t know how to get noticed by the media or think they don’t have a newsworthy story to tell.

Plus, journalists are constantly trying to find interesting people to write about and talk to – your business could be one of them!

Mark your calendars for 7:30am-9:00am Thursday 13 June at Whitsunday Green Golf Club on ‘Getting Free Media for Your Business’.

Hosted by the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry, regional media outlets and specialists will answer your questions on how to get free publicity for your business, top tips for maximising your media exposure, and how to respond to media enquiries. 

Our expert line-up includes:

   • Rachael Smith, Editor in Chief of Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper.
   • Deb Friend, Editor of Whitsunday News.
   • Paul O’Connor, General Manager of Star 101.9, 4MK and Kix MACKAY.
   • Tegan Philpott, former Chief of Staff for ABC Tropical North and current Stakeholder and Sponsorship Manager for CQ Rescue.

Start your day with like-minded local business owners and Chamber Board members and team, who will provide an update on Chamber activities and hear your views on current business priorities.

This event is open to everyone.

When: 7:30am-9:00am Thursday 13 June
Where:  Whitsunday Green Golf Club 
Register: Free tickets for Chamber members; discounted tickets ($18.25) for members of Tourism Whitsundays, Bowen Chamber of Commerce, and Bowen Gumlu Growers Association; and non-members $25. Register today. Visit the Chamber website or email admin@whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au

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Originally from New Zealand, San Maere and his family emigrated to Australia when he was six years old.

It wasn’t until San moved to Airlie Beach in 1993, however, that his love for food and passion for cooking was ignited.

In the early 90’s, San joined some of his friends and they all began their cooking journey together on Hamilton Island.

Hamilton Island was in a very progressive stage at that time and San was lucky enough to work alongside some prestigious Master Chefs who inspired him and taught him work ethics that keep him humble to this day.

“When I started my culinary journey on Hamilton Island, I spent many years over there so that kept me grounded during those infant years of cooking and from that I was able to scale then be sent across this country,” said San.

“Rubbing shoulders with some great chefs, gave me the confidence to grow and then travel south.

San travelled through Melbourne and Adelaide before arriving in Perth.

It was two years ago when San returned to Airlie Beach, bringing with him all the skills and experience he developed from travelling the country and working at some incredible restaurants.

Gaining experience in Australia’s biggest hotel chains, QANTAS airline catering, and in the mining industry, San has now joined the team at epochal Hotels - Australia’s newest hotel brand - with iconic venues along the east coast of Australia from Freshwater to Manly, Merewether, McMahon’s Point and the Whitsundays with Colonial Palms Motor Inn and their new Hook Island Resort Development, opening soon.

Now, Head Chef at Colonial Palms, San has been in this position since February and loves sharing his insight and experience in the kitchen.

The Palms restaurant kitchen has three chefs, and with a combined 107 years of experience the food is immaculate, especially with San’s new menu which has been created with local produce in mind.

“The menu itself is going to reflect some great dishes that have been fine-tuned,” said San.

“It’s the history of meals, we are just recreating the same thing over and over and it's keeping within the cultural lifestyle of Airlie Beach.

“Cooking is always refreshing ideas that have worked in the past, it's taking traditional techniques and bringing them into 2024, 2025, springing them into this new era.”

With a diverse team of different nationalities, San said they are able to grow as a team and he is continuing to learn, despite having all this experience.

“You’re always a student of the industry, you’ve got to absorb, got to be able to change when the time has changed,” San added.

“Cooking also bridges the gap, it brings families to the table, it brings people to connect - you have meaningful relationships and food expands people, it changes the behaviour of people, that's what food does.”

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San Maere, Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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A sultry blend of beans that speaks to the romance of a menage a trois, the Date Night coffee now being served at Whisper Gin Bar and Restaurant is made by combining three different beans in a match made in heaven.

The strong, dominant Columbian bean is nestled within the softer Papua New Guinea notes and enhanced with the sweetness of an Ethiopian bean.

This magical mix is created by passionate coffee-roaster Dan Shaw who began his journey as a hobby-roaster in Western Australia 15 years ago.

“I am one of those lucky people that have been fortunate enough to turn a hobby into a business and I have so much gratitude to the community and suppliers for supporting us.”

For the past five years Dan has been operating Primal Coffee café and espresso bar in Mackay along with a Barista Training Academy.

He also distributes his coffee to 52 outlets up and down the coast and just last week, had his biggest ever roasting week, producing an impressive 590 kilograms of coffee.

The Date Night Coffee is an award-winning combination, having recently received a bronze award in one of the biggest roasting competitions in Australasia.

You can get this special brew at Whisper Gin Bar and Restaurant.

What do you love most about coffee?
With great coffee, comes great conversation

What’s your favourite coffee to make?
The Bee Sting – a single espresso poured on a bed of honey

What’s your favourite coffee to drink?
Cappuccino on oat with our Soul Mate blend

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Master-roatser Dan Shaw supplies Primal Coffee to Whisper Gin Bar and Restaurant

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Queensland Day at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre was a huge success last Sunday 2 June.

Mayor Ry Collins was in attendance and conducted a Welcome Speech, followed by live music performances by Luella and Shayne and Skyhigh Juggling.

Food stalls and activities kept everyone busy.

Everyone was in high spirit and enjoyed the wonderful Whitsunday winter weather.

The day was celebrated the Whitsunday way.

A celebration of Queensland’s birthday; it marks its official separation from New South Wales as an independent colony in 1859.

It is an important celebration of our state’s culture, heritage and an opportunity to reflect on what Queensland means to you.

To get a copy of one of these photos head to – mackayandwhitsundaylife.com

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Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Raphaelle Faust
Ses Howard, Ava Howard
Oleina, Amanda and Uthyr
Mahlia, Melissa, Lee and Lidiia
Kendall and Nicole
Isaiah, Nataliya and Zemes
Abigail, Isabelle and Reuben

Melanie Collins and Mayor Ry Collins
Skyhigh Juggling – Dan and Roo
Harison, Nathan, Izzy, Charlie and Lisa
Layla
Jo Green, James Borg and Tracy Staniland
Harry, Maggie-Laurie, Daniel and Lachlan
Craig and Kayla
Jazz and Priscilla
Kirby Clarke and Jordan Hinton

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Hundreds of people flowed through the doors of the inaugural Pre-loved and Vintage Clothing Markets which were held in the large function room at Kipara Rainforest Retreat on Sunday.

Dozens of stalls hosted by enthusiastic fashionistas created an Aladdin’s cave of delights where attendees could explore the racks of colourful clothing and discover hidden gems to add to their own collection.

Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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June 10 1944 1400 hours

It was a quiet Saturday afternoon in Proserpine. Walter Magnetti was getting ready for his wedding and a young Ivo Botta recalled that many men were away playing bowls.

With the sound of a plane crashing into a cane paddock in the Foxdale/Up River area, locals could be forgiven for thinking the war had arrived at their door.

The plane was a Spitfire (A58-345) on transit from Amberley to Darwin with Flt/Lt Alan Edward Davison 9106931 at the helm. An hour and a half after departure, the plane suffered engine failure. The formation was above 7/10th cloud at the time. Davison headed for the coast and eventually crash landed at 1400 hours.

Newspapers of the day did not report the event.

But unofficially …

Walter Magnetti recalled, “I was getting dressed for the church and, still in my underwear, when I saw the plane hit the ground. There was a large explosion and ball of fire that could be seen eight miles way. I took off to see how the pilot was. When I got there, my cousin, Wilma, who was also in just her underwear, was already there. Luckily, the pilot had been thrown clear. He kept saying, ‘Keep clear of the plane!’ then he passed out.”

Others reported that Livio DeAndrea was first on the scene and when he arrived, the pilot still had the presence of mind to ask him to turn off the controls. There were reports that the plane was loaded with ammunition.

Despite his young age, Ivo Botta had very clear memories of the event. “After the Spitfire crash … I remember the pilot being brought up to the house. (Even though) the men were away … the women were home. They offered him brandy. Neighbour, Walter Dodd, arrived and advised them against this, saying alcohol was dangerous as the pilot was in shock and he told him not to drink any. The pilot had other ideas, grabbed the brandy himself and gulped it down.”

Ivo’s father, Mario Botta, was a partner on Magnetti and Co’s farm where the crash occurred. Years later, Ivo positioned the crash site as 13.5 kms by road or 6.6 air miles WNW from Proserpine Post Office on the northern side of Proserpine River. This farm is now owned by the Orr family. Because people had begun to souvenir parts of the plane, Eddie Maloney stood guard over the wreck with a .303 rifle until the Home Defence Guard arrived. These guards were based in the farm barracks until the wreckage was removed.

Davison was in hospital for some time and after his release he stayed at the Dobbins’ residence until his return home to England. Mrs Arthur Dobbins, who was an aircraft “spotter” during the war, recalled how when she gave him a cup of tea, his hands would shake so violently that he spilt practically all of it.

Families who had befriended the pilot, were saddened to hear that he was killed in a sortie shortly after his return home. However, this was discounted years later when Mrs Joan Clay, whose husband, Phil, also flew Spitfires in the war, provided this information from RAF Personnel Management Agency (Gloucester) “He (Davison) survived the war, and after re-enlisting as an airman, left the service in 1958.”

(Note: While there are discrepancies in these reports, nonetheless their “stories” are interesting.)

Postscript: And what of the wedding? Well, not surprisingly, Walter was late. The bridal car kept driving around town, stopping at the church and asking, “Has he arrived yet?” He eventually did!

Story courtesy of Proserpine Historical Museum and “La Mia Vita My Life” by Walter Magnetti.

Photo courtesy of the late Tom Dobbins.

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Queensland Police have issued an appeal to the public for assistance in locating Celeste McGain, a 40-year-old woman reported missing since Saturday 1 June from the Whitsundays area.
Celeste McGain was last seen on Paluma Road in Woodwark around 2pm on Saturday 25 May. Since then, there have been no sightings or communications from her.
Concerns for Celeste's well-being are heightened as her disappearance is considered out of character by family and friends.
Described as Caucasian, approximately 175cm tall, with brown eyes and curly brown hair, Celeste was last seen wearing a blue skirt and a white shirt.
While she was last seen in Woodwark, Celeste is known to have connections to the northern New South Wales area.
Queensland Police are urging Celeste to make contact or for anyone with information regarding her whereabouts to come forward immediately. Assistance from the public in such cases can often prove crucial in locating missing individuals and ensuring their safety.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or call 131 444.

Celeste McGain

Photo Supplied

The culmination of four years dedicated efforts to bring free local news to the Mackay community has been recognised at the Queensland Country Press Awards, which were held in the Sunshine Coast last Friday night.

Mackay Life was honoured to bring home the award for Best One-off Commercial Feature for its in-depth coverage of the Fergus Builders 40-year celebrations. Sister publication, Burdekin Life also won Best Locally Produced Advertising Campaign and the broader Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper won Best Free Newspaper in Queensland.

Bringing It Home For The Region

Representatives from Life Publishing Group were thrilled to bring home three accolades at the Queensland Country Press Awards on Friday night, the win however was bittersweet, with Mackay Life Editor Amanda Wright unable to attend having recently received a cancer diagnosis.

Despite this, Amanda said it really lifted her spirits to receive the news of the three awards from her hospital bed where she was recovering from bowel surgery to remove colon cancer.

“It was an emotional and uplifting moment during one of the most challenging times of my life,” she expressed.

“My cancer diagnosis has been an incredibly tough journey, filled with fear, uncertainty, and pain.

“But to have a nurse on hand at Mackay Base Hospital to hear with me that our newspaper has been honoured in such a significant way brought tears to my eyes, and she gave me an enormous hug.

“It was a profound reminder that I have so much to live for and many more celebrations are yet to come, as well as recognition of the importance of our work and the impact we have on our community.”

Amanda was diagnosed with Colon Cancer in April and, following a successful operation, she is about to begin intensive life-saving treatment.

Editor of Mackay Life Newspaper since its inception, Amanda’s talent, passion and personality is etched on every page of this newspaper – her stories are renowned for being compassionate, inspiring and engaging.

This was the third year in a row that Mackay and Whitsunday Life had attended the Queensland Country Press Awards, and Amanda was present at the previous two.

As such, it was a real honour for the team to receive the awards in her name, especially the award for Best One-off Commercial Feature which she had personally written.

Amanda said winning an award for the Fergus Builders Special Feature showcases the quality editorial and advertising we deliver right here in Mackay.

Rebecca Douthwaite, owner of Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper and the broader Life Publishing Group, said she understands the value these features bring to the community.

“Big businesses come to us to celebrate big events such as their birthdays, milestones and rebranding, they do that because we involve everybody in their business, and we get everybody excited about it – we are very passionate about running corporate features and obviously very good at it!” she expressed.

Amanda agrees, saying all three awards are a testament to the team's passion and hard work.

“They are a source of immense pride,” she shared.

“They represent in a tangible way our unwavering commitment to delivering quality, free news to our readers and giving businesses a powerful advertising platform.

“And of course, taking out the big state award of Best Free Newspaper of the Year means more to me and the team than words can express, especially those who have been here since Mackay and Whitsunday Life's inception almost four years ago.

“I still remember our very first photo shoot in Queens Park, with the headline PRINT IS BACK! And look at us now.”

Federal Member For Dawson
Andrew Willcox

A huge congratulations to the Mackay and Whitsunday Life & Burdekin Life Team on being awarded the Best Free Newspaper in Queensland. Amanda, Bec, Rachael, Sam and your entire team, this is a testament to the hard work and dedication to provide the news to our communities.

Member For Whitsunday
Amanda Camm

Congratulations Mackay and Whitsunday Life the Best Free Newspaper in Queensland!
An outstanding local publication!

1: Mackay Life Editor Amanda Wright
2: Sales Manager Jess Clarke
3: Cadet Journalist Hannah McNamara
4: Rachael Smith, Editor in Chief of Life Publishing Group, Leader of the Opposition David Crisafulli, and Owner/Publisher of Life Publishing Group, Rebecca Douthwaite at the Queensland Country Press Awards in the Sunshine Coast on Friday. Photo credit: Samantha Wantling

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Hi there to our lovely readers,

I don’t think I could ever fill the shoes of Amanda as she does such an amazing job, but rest assured, all going well, she will be back very shortly!

I’d like to start off by introducing myself if we haven’t crossed paths already at recent events.

I’m Hannah the cadet journalist with Mackay Life Newspaper, and what I love most about my job and working with this paper, is that we all have a great love for our community.

I was born in Melbourne but I now call Mackay home after living here for over 16 years. For one…it’s too cold down in Victoria… and two, you just don’t get local community love like you do here in Mackay.

Sure, there’s good and bad people everywhere, but working for this paper has truly shown me how amazing this community is.

Each week we easily find a good deed story to place right next to this editor’s note, we have so many amazing fundraisers happening, like the recent Mayors Charity Ball that raised over $80,000 for the Grapevine Group and Australian Street Aid Project (page 5).

Not to mention the unbelievable local talent that never fails to amaze me and the exciting upcoming events like the Family Fun Day at BB Print Stadium on this Sunday to raise funds for our local hospitals (page 9), as well as a live performance from Pierce Brothers (page 20) and so much more.

Recently we received the ‘Best Free Newspaper Award’ at the 2024 Queensland Country Press Awards, along with two other amazing achievements across our three community papers, and while that’s a remarkable accomplishment, our biggest thanks go to you, our readers, for supporting us and allowing us to share YOUR remarkable stories.

Thank You & Stay Blessed!
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Hannah

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An anonymous member of the local community took to a neighbourhood crime page on Facebook, not to report an incident, but to express her heartfelt gratitude.
The focus of her message was directed towards a family wearing orange hi-vis attire and the manager of the Ooralea McDonald's, both of whom came to her aid when she unexpectedly fell ill around 8:30pm the previous Sunday night.
In her post, the anonymous individual conveyed profound thanks, expressing regret for the inconvenience caused by her sudden illness. She emphasised that her condition was not contagious but rather a reaction to medication following her release from the Mackay Base Hospital.
Her gratitude extended beyond words, with an eagerness to know the names of those who helped her, so she could personally extend her appreciation.
Despite the option to turn away, they chose compassion, a gesture she valued immensely.
Her post radiated with a sense of humility and genuine appreciation, which then lead to an outpouring of positive reactions from readers on the platform.
The anonymous poster said “I can't thank you enough, I had just been released from the Base and unfortunately wasn't as well as they and I had assumed.
“I feel so terrible that the situation even occurred, but I would love to know your names to gift you for your help,” she expressed.

“You didn't have to help me and could have turned away, but you didn't and I appreciate it more than you will ever know.

“Thank you so much for the concerns, I really hope this gets to the people who helped me.”

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