Mackay residents are being encouraged to roll up their sleeves for their annual flu vaccination, with the Queensland Government again making the vaccine free this year.

Member for Mackay, Nigel Dalton said the message for the community is simple as winter approaches.

“The message is to get your flu jab ahead of winter,” he said.

“It’s a really difficult disease to get through, and when you’ve got elderly people in the community, you don’t want to pass it on to them.”

Mr Dalton said residents should speak with their GP to determine whether the vaccination is suitable.

“The idea is that you consult with your GP and, if it’s the right thing for you, come and get your free flu jab either at the pharmacy or at a doctor’s clinic,” he said.

After receiving his own vaccination, Mr Dalton said the process was quick and easy.

“It was absolutely painless. It’s so easy and so quick. It just takes a couple of minutes out of your day and you know you’re protected for the coming winter.”

He also highlighted a needle free option available for young children.

“There’s a nasal spray now, and I believe it’s for under-fives which is a really good alternative.”

Owner and pharmacist Jie Lu van der Horst from Express Pharmacy Mackay said getting vaccinated each year helps protect both individuals and vulnerable members of the community.

“It’s really good to get the flu shot every year to protect yourself and also protect those who are vulnerable in the community,” she said.

“That includes the elderly, little children and anyone who is immunocompromised or chronically ill.”

She said the free program has made vaccination more accessible.

“As the owner of a local community pharmacy, I have to applaud the Queensland Government for making this program free for everyone this year so that it’s accessible to everyone.”

Ms van der Horst said the process is simple and convenient.

“It takes less than five minutes. You can come to your local community pharmacy or GP clinic, fill out an easy questionnaire and receive your flu shot.”

She added that the vaccine protects against influenza specifically, while COVID booster vaccinations are also available.

Nigel Dalton MP received his flu vaccination from pharmacist Jie Lu van der Horst and is encouraging the community to speak with their GP or local pharmacy about getting their free flu jab ahead of winter. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Mackay State High School sent a team of Year 12 students to camp on Konomie Island recently to collect data for their Biology assessment.

Students got to explore a number of different sites across the island, even donning snorkels to learn about the sea.

The trip was a chance to gather data about the natural environment, whilst gaining many valuable lifelong skills in the process.

The trip was a demonstration of how the rich landscape of the Mackay region can offer our young ones unique chances to interact with nature and engage with the natural world.

Photo source: Mackay SHS

A miniature park, or ‘parklet’, will be installed this week that will bring more shade, greenery and community activity to the Bluewater Quay.

The temporary placemaking intervention will remain in place for about three months and will act as a trial to test community sentiment and public use of the area.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the parklet was a quick win to help continue the reactivation of the Riverfront Precinct.

“We’ve had some tremendous success lately with the Riverfront Action Plan,” Mayor Williamson said.

“This plan began with extensive collaboration between council and State support agencies to engage with homeless people in the area and make it safe, tidy and welcoming for the public,” he said.

“We then moved to the activation phase which saw a fee-free food truck and recreation provider trial, which has seen hundreds of people flocking to the area on the weekends, especially on Saturday mornings.

“This parklet trial directly responds to community feedback gathered during engagement on the Mackay Waterfront Place Strategy.

“The community told us they wanted more shade, more greenery and more reasons to spend time at Bluewater Quay.

“This temporary parklet is a practical way to test those ideas on the ground, activate the space and see how people use it before considering longerterm options.”

The parklet has been designed and supplied by specialist placemaking company Future Village, using highquality temporary furniture and greenery to create an inviting, flexible space for locals and visitors.

Mayor Williamson said the project would support communityled activations and complement existing events at the waterfront.

“We’re working closely with market convenors and local community stakeholders to ensure this space supports a range of activities,” he said.

“It’s about creating a place where people can meet, relax and connect, whether they’re attending a market, hosting a small group activity or simply enjoying the river.

“This is a trial, but it’s an important one. If it proves successful, there is potential to purchase and recycle the parklet for use in other Waterfront and City Centre locations, helping us to activate various locations as needed.”

Caption: The temporary parklet is a practical way to activate the Bluewater Quay and see how people use it before council considers longerterm options. Image supplied

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Local student Nate Ralph represented Mackay in Canberra last week, having earned a place at one of Australia’s most prestigious student forums.

The 31st National Schools Constitutional Convention was held at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House, bringing together more than 100 high-achieving Year 11 and 12 students from across Australia to explore the Australian Constitution and contemporary political issues.

The achievement built on an already impressive record for Nate, who previously served as the Youth Member for Whitsunday in the 30th Queensland Youth Parliament and continues to contribute locally through his role on the Mackay Youth Council, where he is serving his second term. He has also been recognised as a nominee for the 2026 Mackay Regional Council Young Citizen of the Year.

As part of the program, Nate took part in a series of high-profile experiences, including a welcome reception at Parliament House hosted by the Minister for Education, a meeting with the Governor-General, and an official dinner at the National Press Club of Australia.

Local member for Dawson Andrew Willcox praised Nate and congratulated him on the milestone.

“It is fantastic to see a young person from our region with such passion and interest in politics and the issues driving our nation's future,” Andrew said.

“This achievement is the latest in a significant string of contributions Nate has made to our community.”

Nate said the event gave him a “good insight to how the constitution works, and a deeper understanding of how it can be amended, changed, added to or removed from to better apply to Australia.”

“It’s absolutely crucial young people are involved in our decision making and have a proper understanding of our democracy so they can make informed decisions.” He added.

“This needs to be part of education curriculum.”

Nate highlighted Royalties for Regional Advancement and the decentralisation of Australia as issues he personally feels strongly about.

Looking ahead, he would like to see more regional industry profits reinvested into local communities, and advocates for boosting on-shore manufacturing across the country.

1 – Nate Ralph, Minister For Education Jason Clare, and Asha Chalmers.‍
2- Nate Ralph with Governor-General Sam Mostyn
3 – Nate Ralph with Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox. Photos supplied

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OPINION PIECE By Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox

The Coalition will strongly oppose any move by the Albanese Government to increase the size of the Australian Parliament; warning it would come at significant cost to taxpayers at a time Australians are already under severe financial pressure.

Analysis from the Parliamentary Budget Office shows that expanding the Parliament could cost taxpayers more than $620 million, including salaries, staff, travel, and office costs.

Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, said the proposal is a direct threat to the representation of regional Queensland.

Leader of the Opposition, Angus Taylor, said the Government had its priorities completely wrong.

“At a time when Australian families are tightening their belts, the last thing they should be asked to fund is more politicians,” Mr Taylor said.

“This is a Government that cannot manage the economy, cannot control spending, and now wants to make Australians pay for a bigger Parliament. This is more spending, more bureaucracy, and more pressure on the budget at exactly the wrong time.”

Leader of The Nationals, Matt Canavan, said the proposal showed how out of touch the Government had become.

“People in regional Australia are doing it tough. They are paying more for fuel, groceries, and power,” Senator Canavan said.

“They do not want more politicians in Canberra; they want practical help with the cost of living.

“This Government is focused on itself; the Coalition is focused on Australians.”

Mr Willcox said that increasing the number of seats would further diminish the voices of regions like Dawson by shifting the balance of power toward the major cities.“This is a calculated Labor tactic to stack the deck in their favour.

“By adding more seats to urban areas with high levels of immigration and a heavy reliance on government services, they are effectively diluting the voting power of our regions,” Mr Willcox said.

“More seats in the cities means more voting power for urban centres, and that diminishes the voices of our farmers, miners, and regional small business owners.

“This city-centric ideology is already strangling the country, it will be detrimental to an Australian-made future.”

As the Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability, Mr Willcox warned that the move would erode the national identity.

“Our sovereign capability relies on a strong, independent regional Australia.

“The more we pander to imported ideologies and urban-focused agendas, the more we lose our national identity.

“The Coalition will always back our regions and fight to ensure that Dawson is not left behind by Labor’s bureaucratic expansion.”

Contributed with thanks to the office of Andrew Willcox MP.

Andrew Willcox MP says making room for 28 additional politicians in Parliament won’t be as easy as simply dismantling and rebuilding this impressive LEGO model of Parliament House, which is on display inside Canberra’s Parliament House. Photo supplied.

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Mackay and surrounding regions embraced the Easter long weekend with a mix of family gatherings, community events, and traditional church services. Residents took the opportunity to relax, reconnect, and celebrate the holiday in ways that suited everyone, from festive outings to quiet time at home.

Many residents enjoyed spending quality time with loved ones, whether sharing meals, enjoying the outdoors, or simply relaxing together. Local churches also saw strong attendance over Easter, as families came together to commemorate the season with reflection and worship.

Across the community, events added a festive touch for children and adults alike. Easter hunts were popular highlights, with children eagerly searching for hidden treats while parents cheered them on. At Walkerston Library, the Easter Story Time drew a crowd of families, who enjoyed stories, songs, and playful bunny antics.

Community groups also celebrated in style. Mackay VIEW Club members enjoyed a lively morning of laughter, coffee, scones, games, and friendship, with the Easter Bunny making a special appearance.

Meanwhile, the Mackay & District Senior Citizens’ Association hosted their annual Easter Ball, with attendees enjoying music, dancing, and social connection.

Whether heading out to events, participating in Easter hunts, gathering or simply staying home with family, the long weekend was a chance for families, and the greater Mackay community to come together, celebrate, and enjoy the joys of the season.

Mackay VIEW Club members celebrated Easter with hats, games, coffee, and scones, enjoying a morning of friendship and treats hosted by Ocean International. Photo source: Mackay View Club

Kids and families hopped into Easter Story Time at Walkerston Library, enjoying stories, songs, and playful bunny fun before the long weekend. Photo source: Mackay Regional Council Libraries

Members of the Mackay & District Senior Citizens’ Association enjoyed a lively Easter Ball, celebrating friendship, music, and community spirit. Photo source: Mackay & District Senior Citizens' Association Inc.

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Generosity has been on full display at Pioneer State High School, where students and staff have once again united to support those in need through their annual Tin Drive.

This year’s campaign delivered an impressive contribution, with more than 1,900 tins, hygiene products and essential pantry items donated to Chances House Mackay.

Members of the school’s wellbeing team and student Pride group personally delivered the supplies to Chances House, where the donation was met with heartfelt gratitude from those who rely on the service.

School representatives said the overwhelming response from the community reinforced why the initiative continues to be an important tradition each year.

The school thanked every student who contributed money, food items or their time to support the drive, noting that even the smallest donation can make a meaningful difference.

This year’s effort was further strengthened by the support of Beaconsfield State School, which joined the initiative and helped collect additional tins.

The combined effort highlighted the strength of community spirit among local schools, with Pioneer State High School describing the outcome as “Pioneer pride at its finest.”

Photo source: Pioneer State High School

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After a long 36 hours of solo travel, Peter arrived at Whitsunday Coast Airport and was collected by his wife, putting an end to a tiring two days.

Unfortunately, technical difficulties struck; the parking meter wasn’t accepting their payment. They were stuck behind the barrier, tapping cards and phones with no luck as a queue of other tired travellers formed behind them.

Luckily, in the car behind waited a kind local couple, who got out and came to offer a hand, paying the $7 fee and setting them free to go home, with no further hassle.

Peter offered to pay them back, but the do-gooder sent them on their way.

“It was extremely frustrating after a long flight hot day so I was very grateful of the help from this couple. I can’t even remember the car they were in I was that flustered,” Peter recounted.

The encounter stands as yet another demonstration that, in the Whitsundays, newcomers and locals alike are treated with warmth and kindness from the airport carpark, to the islands and beyond, with help consistently offered to those that need it.

1- Photo Source: Whitsunday Regional Council

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A group of nine puppies have been saved from a tragic fate thanks to the quick actions of a local Good Samaritan and the overwhelming support of the community.

A concerned member of the public contacted a volunteer from Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc (BCPRI)  around March 30^th after discovering that nine puppies were about to be drowned.

Upon receiving the call, BCPRI put out an urgent appeal on social media for foster carers. As a small, privately run rescue with no shelter facilities, the organisation relies entirely on foster homes to care for animals until they can be rehomed.

“Our carers were already at full capacity,” a spokesperson said. “We had nowhere for nine puppies to go, but we knew we couldn’t turn our backs on them.”

The community response was swift and overwhelming, with an outpouring of support from locals offering to foster the puppies.

The rescue is now attempting to locate the owner of the mother dog to offer support, including desexing, to prevent similar situations in the future.

While all nine puppies are now safe in foster care, the rescue faces significant ongoing costs. Each puppy will require extensive veterinary care, including three rounds of vaccinations, heartworm and parvovirus prevention, flea, tick and worm treatments, microchipping, and desexing when they reach the appropriate age.

The organisation is using this incident to highlight the importance of responsible pet ownership.

“We urge the public to desex their animals as soon as they are able,” the spokesperson said. “One simple procedure can prevent countless unwanted litters and situations like this.”

The rescue also called for stronger regulations around breeding and improved systems for reporting and addressing animal cruelty.

BCPRI encourages anyone struggling to care for animals to seek help before situations escalate.

Contributed with thanks to Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue (INC)

Captions

Photo supplied

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After proving hugely popular last year, the Airlie Beach Ferris Wheel is coming back in 2026 to light up the same location on the Foreshore from May through to November.

The return is prompted by strong community support, following last years trial, with over 80% of locals and visitors surveyed expressing support for the fixture. Feedback said the wheel boosted the atmosphere and Foreshore experience, whilst attracting buzz that supported local businesses and activity.

Standing 35 metres tall, the wheel will once again offer sweeping 360° views of The Whitsundays, from the sparkling Coral Sea to the bustle of the foreshore and some stunning sunsets. 

Last year over 40,000 people hopped on board and, according to Tourism Whitsundays, the Wheel even played host to a bit of romance, with at least 17 proposals happening high above the sea.

With fully wheelchair-accessible gondolas, the wheel will be open to all.

Whitsunday Regional Council shared the good news and highlighted that the project will have other hidden benefits:

“As part of its use of public land, a share of profits generated by the wheel will be re-invested back in the Foreshore, helping fund ongoing improvements for the community,” a representative shared.

“This is all part of building a vibrant, welcoming Foreshore that locals are proud of and visitors keep coming back to.”

1 - Airlie Beach Ferris Wheel will return to the foreshore for May-November 2026. Photo credit: Mackay and Whitsunday Life

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A community petition is gaining attention, with more than 5000 signatures so far, after eighteen-year-old Bucasia woman Mia Ryan sadly passed away following a  traffic crash last month at the intersection of Glenella Richmond Road and Holts Road. Now, locals are urging authorities to consider installing a roundabout to improve safety, with widespread community backing.

Launched by Mackay resident Andrew Collins, the petition seeks to improve safety at the intersection. It states: “This petition is not based on any specific incident findings, but on a shared community concern and a desire to prevent future harm.”

It also highlights that the intersection has become known for “confusion” and “potential danger” for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. Supporters say the current layout is difficult to navigate and can lead to misunderstandings between motorists.

According to the petition, the alignment of the roads creates an unusual driving movement for motorists, and states that drivers travelling straight along Glenella Richmond Road are often required to indicate right and then immediately left to continue forward, which can cause uncertainty for other road users. Residents online have also vocalised that some drivers even cross Holts Road without indicating, contributing to hesitation and misinterpretation at the junction.

Advocates for the proposal argue that roundabouts are a proven road safety measure. The petition references evidence indicating that converting traditional intersections to roundabouts can reduce serious injury crashes by up to 75 per cent by lowering conflict points and improving traffic flow.

Traffic growth is another concern raised by supporters and locals. The petition states that Glenella Richmond Road is increasingly used by motorists seeking to avoid congestion along Mackay Bucasia Road during peak periods and by drivers travelling between the Northern Beaches and the Mackay Ring Road.

While acknowledging that infrastructure upgrades require planning and funding, the petition argues the long-term benefits could improve both safety and traffic efficiency for the growing region.

Community members are now being encouraged to consider the proposal and add their support if they believe changes are needed.

In the wake of this tragedy, residents and local leaders are calling for action, with questions still lingering about whether a roundabout should be installed at the Glenella Richmond Road and Holts Road intersection, and what it will take to ultimately make the crossing safer for everyone.

Please place in circle Headshot - of girl -

The heartbreaking loss of 18-year-old Bucasia woman Mia Ryan in a crash at the Glenella Richmond Road and Holts Road intersection has prompted a community petition calling for improved safety. Photo source: Centre Stage Dance Company

Photo source: Google Maps

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Mackay local Tracey Morgan is sharing her story to raise awareness about chronic kidney disease and help others understand that treatment options can allow people to continue living a full and independent life.

Born and raised in Mackay, Tracey says the region has always felt like home, with strong family, friend and community ties.

Her health journey began after routine blood tests revealed abnormalities. Further testing and monitoring eventually led to a life changing diagnosis.

“In February 2024 I was told I have stage five chronic kidney disease,” Tracey said.

“Part of that was through hypertension and genetics because my dad had the same thing as well.”

Tracey watched her father manage treatment at home through peritoneal dialysis, which allowed him to continue working while remaining present for family life.

“Seeing my dad do dialysis at home and still work full time definitely influenced me,” she said.

Tracey had originally planned to manage her kidney disease with home dialysis, preparing through surgeries, training with specialist nurses and learning how to monitor her treatment from home. However, after complications with the catheter used for peritoneal dialysis, she is currently receiving haemodialysis at hospital while completing further testing to join the active kidney transplant list.

While home dialysis remains an option she hopes others will learn more about, Tracey currently attends hospital twice a week for treatment. Despite the challenges, she continues to work full time as a support worker.

“We had a lot of training with the PD nurses and they come out to your house… they make sure you know what you’re doing before you start,” she said.

“At the moment I do dialysis twice a week at the hospital while getting ready to go on the active transplant list.”

With around one in ten Australians living with kidney disease and rates expected to rise significantly in coming years, Tracey hopes sharing her story will encourage greater understanding of the condition and the treatment options available.

“Dialysis should work around your life, not have your life dictated by dialysis,” she said.

She also wants people to understand that kidney disease can affect anyone.

“Chronic kidney disease doesn’t discriminate. People come from all ages, shapes, sizes and walks of life,” she said.

Tracey says awareness and education are key, particularly when it comes to home dialysis options that may help people maintain independence and continue working or spending time with family.

“People assume you lose weight because you’re sick, but people waiting for transplants have to work really hard to be in the best condition possible,” she said.

By speaking openly about her journey, Tracey hopes more people will feel confident asking questions and learning about the support and treatment options available.

“We don’t want pity from people. We just want people to ask questions and understand that it is possible to receive dialysis treatment at home, on your own terms.”

Photo caption: Mackay local Tracey Morgan is raising awareness about chronic kidney disease by sharing her journey with stage five kidney disease while continuing to work and preparing for a transplant, hoping to help others understand their treatment options and maintain independence. Photos supplied

Local member Nigel Dalton has completed his final laps for the annual Laps for Life campaign, using the challenge to raise awareness about youth suicide prevention and the importance of mental health support. Over the month of March, Mr Dalton swam around 20 kilometres and raised nearly $1,000 for ReachOut Australia, helping fund resources aimed at supporting young Australians experiencing mental health struggles. As the community heads into Queensland Youth Week from April 6–12, the campaign highlights the need for open conversations and stronger support networks for young people in Mackay. Local services, including MADEC Australia, continue to play a vital role in connecting young people with help and encouraging them to seek support before reaching crisis point.

Diving Into Action

For Youth Mental Health

Each stroke in the pool is carrying much more than water for Nigel Dalton. With every lap completed during the Laps for Life challenge in March, the Mackay MP is helping create a ripple effect of awareness around youth suicide and mental health, turning kilometres in the pool into meaningful support for young Australians who may be struggling.

Mr Dalton swum 22.95 kilometres, the equivalent of 918 laps, and almost reached his fundraising goal of $1000.

“For the last month I’ve been doing Laps for Life, which is basically swimming a certain distance in the pool and reminding myself that youth suicide is an issue in Queensland and in Mackay, and we need to raise awareness,” he said.

Funds raised through the challenge will support ReachOut Australia.

“The money that I raise will go towards the foundation ReachOut, which helps people reach out and get the information they need about mental health and suicide.”

Mr Dalton said suicide remains a significant issue in Australia.

“It’s awful that we have twice as many people dying in Australia through suicide than we do on the roads.”

Drawing on his background in policing, he said the issue has long been close to his heart.

“It was very much part of my policing career, working in the youth suicide space, and I wanted to make sure I carried that on while being an MP.”

He said exercise can also play a positive role in mental wellbeing.

“Sometimes I get in the pool even when I don’t feel like training because it removes anxiety and stress. It’s also a great way to decompress.”

Mr Dalton said the challenge is also about encouraging young people to seek help.

“Moving into Youth Week in April, it’s important to remind young people that they can seek help.”

Chief Executive Officer of MADEC, Jasmine Lowry, said the organisation was proud to support the initiative.

“As a youth service provider in the region, we’re really passionate about youth mental health and making sure people have access to the services they need,” she said.

Ms Lowry said demand for youth support services remains high.

“We’re seeing a lot of young people reach out in crisis and struggling to access the mental health supports that they need.”

She emphasised that mental health challenges can affect anyone.

“Mental health affects everyone. It doesn’t matter about your background or social standing.”

Ms Lowry also encouraged young people and families to seek support when needed.

“It’s really important to reach out and just have the conversation.”

Nigel Dalton is raising awareness for youth mental health through the Laps for Life challenge, while Jasmine Lowry says supporting young people and ensuring access to mental health services remains a key priority for MADEC. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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The waters off the Whitsundays came alive over Easter as top local sailors hit the waves for the thrilling Sail Airlie 2026 regatta.

Hosted by the Whitsunday Sailing Club, the four-day event (April 3–6) brought together competitors of all ages and skill levels for fast-paced racing and community fun.

From high-speed catamarans and classic ‘off the beach’ dinghies to windsurfers and the ever-popular Green Fleet, the regatta showcased the region’s best and brightest on the water and delivered plenty of action for spectators along the shore.

Sail Airlie Features Whitsunday’s Best And Brightest

Over the Easter period, some of the Whitsundays’ finest sailors came together for the ‘Sail Airlie 2026’ regatta. The event welcomed all classes of ‘Off the Beach’ dinghies and catamarans, including windsurfers and a dedicated ‘Green Fleet’ for emerging sailors. Between 3 and 6 April, competitors of all ages and backgrounds took to the water for a series of thrilling races, organised by the Whitsunday Sailing Club at their scenic local venue.

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Photo credit: Stallion Studios Photography

The Whitsunday Game Fish Club (WGFC), together with its junior arm “Reefies,” is set to host its popular Sweeties & Squires Ladies and Kids Fun Fishing Weekend — a celebration of family, fishing, and fun on the water.

Festivities begin on Thursday, April 9, with registration and briefing from 4 pm at the club. The afternoon opens with an important presentation from Maritime Safety Queensland, followed by a weekend overview, registration, pizza, and family activities.

Fishing will take place at anglers’ leisure from Saturday morning (April 11) through to lines out at 2 pm on Sunday, April 12. The final weigh-in will be held at 3 pm Sunday, with fish either weighed or measured. Photos of released catches are encouraged and will count toward results. All Queensland size and bag limits apply, and fishing is restricted to rod and reel only.

Sunday afternoon will feature presentations and a wide range of prizes awarded on merit — not just size or quantity — ensuring everyone has a chance to win. Highlights include a mystery prize, lucky door prize, raffles, fun activities, great food, and a prize for the best-dressed team.

The event is free for WGFC members, with memberships available at the briefing. WGFC and Reefies are also official Play On providers, offering sports vouchers for juniors aged 5–17, covering membership and event entry through to July 2027.

What: Sweeties & Squires Ladies and Kids Fun Fishing Weekend
When: April 9th–12th (briefing April 9th from 4pm; fishing April 11th–12th)
Where: Whitsunday Game Fish Club, Altmann Avenue, Cannonvale

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Photo source: Facebook

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