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

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

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Journalist, Isabel Croker, who went on a famil trip

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

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

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

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It was a typical Wednesday evening in May of 1964 and a group of locals, primarily cane farmers, were gathered at the Metropole Hotel in Proserpine, enjoying some cold drinks.

Among the group gathered were Aldo Cantamessa, Terry Hinschen, Gordon Barr, Fred Baxter, Fred Tetley and Kevin Tetley. Amidst the friendly banter, there was talk about the growing issue of potential accidents at sea and the increasing risks of losing friends and visitors while fishing or exploring the Whitsunday waters. Recognising the need for a more organised response to maritime emergencies, they took it upon themselves to address this concern.

Little did they realise, the events of that evening back in 1964 marked an historic moment in the narrative of marine rescue in the Whitsundays. They were the founding members of what we now know as Volunteer Marine Rescue (VMR) Whitsunday.

This forward-thinking group laid the foundation for a new era of marine safety for boaties. They devised a communication process and a roster, each man pledging his own vessel to stand ready for any call of distress. Initially, the group used three main boats privately owned by Gordon Barr, Aldo Cantamessa and Fred Baxter. Other boats used in the early days were those of Jack Hickmott, John Watts, Fred Tetley, Brian McDermott, Terry Hinschen and Wally Rogan. On one search, up to 24 private boats were involved!

The Squad could not charge for their services and relied on donations from assisted boaties – and this was more often than not a “thank you” in kind. After rescuing a family of three who had chartered a sailing boat owned by a baker from Mackay, members were surprised when, a few weeks later, they received thanks from the owner in the form of a huge carton. It was full of bread!

Proserpine Sea Rescue became an official entity in January 1967 after a steering committee was formed to draw up a constitution and rules, thus formalising what first began three years earlier. By July, the name had been changed to Whitsunday Air Sea Rescue (WASR). The year 1994 marked another milestone in the history of marine rescue when the new Whitsunday Marine Club officially opened thanks to a collaborative approach from WASR, the Game Fish Club and the Power Boat Club. In 1995, Coast Guard (QF18) which had formed back in 1977 and Whitsunday Air Sea Rescue (VMR442) merged to officially become known as VMR Whitsunday.

Thanks to the unwavering commitment of volunteers, the next three decades bore witness to many remarkable developments. VMR Whitsunday now bears little resemblance to the fledgling organisation initiated by a small group of local men in a Proserpine hotel sixty years ago.

From little things, big things grow …

The transformation from its humble beginnings in 1964 to what we now know as VMR Whitsunday has been nothing short of remarkable.

VMR Whitsunday has evolved from an informal body of six dedicated volunteers to an organisation with an active crew of over 80 members.  

In the formative years, marine radios were a luxury and mobile phones were a distant dream. Communications relied on landline phones, word of mouth and a basic blackboard system. Not so today! VMR Whitsunday is now equipped with mobile phones, advanced radios, AIS and other modern technology, to provide 24/7/365 emergency marine support.

Initially, operations had no centralised facilities, relying on the homes of dedicated volunteers, with meetings taking place at venues in Proserpine such as the Metropole Hotel, the RSL Club and the CWA Hall. It was over twenty years before the organisation acquired an official base – a demountable purchased for $80! Fast forward to 2024 and VMR Whitsunday boasts an impressive dedicated facility featuring a state-of-the-art training/meeting room.

The legacy born on that seemingly ordinary night at the Metropole Hotel when a small group of locals met to share some camaraderie and a few drinks has become a highly professional organisation that continues to save lives at sea, not just locally but statewide.

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Story courtesy of VMR Whitsundays. Photos from R Jean Photography, VMR Whitsundays and the Proserpine Museum.

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On Wednesday, July 10th, Bowen State High School celebrated NAIDOC Week with a fun-packed day of activities.
The day commenced with a traditional smoking ceremony conducted by Juru Elder Uncle Jimmy Gaston, Acknowledgment of Country and traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander dancers.
Principal Robert Harris welcomed Juru Elders, community partners, families, sponsors, students and staff to the day of celebrations and shared how proud he is of the opportunities and support Bowen High provides First Nations students and families.
“We are committed to create a culture of teaching and learning fostered through strong relationships, common language and understanding,” he said.
Students, staff and community members participated in a range of activities including spear throwing, traditional dance and games, indigenous arts and craft. Students were also treated to a traditional Kup Muri which includes cooked meats, vegetables and damper. Students and staff also enjoyed the NAIDOC cake.
Students also had the opportunity to sit and listen to the protocols and purpose of a yarning circle.
Bowen SHS NAIDOC Celebrations were also attended by NAIDOC National Poster Winner Mrs Deb Belyea and 2023 School Captain Danzel Lewis.  
The celebration is an important event on the school calendar. Bowen High dedicates an entire school day for celebration, reflection and an opportunity to come together as one to honour the enduring strength and spirit of First Nations culture. Student attendance at this years NAIDOC celebrations was the highest it’s been for years.
The 2024 NAIDOC celebrations were made possible through sponsorship from the National Indigenous Australian Agency, AURIZON and Postech. Community support was received from Juru Elders, First Nation’s families, Girudala, Pacific National, and Woolworths.

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Students celebrating NAIDOC week
Students listening to protocols and purpose of a Yarning Circle.
Cutting of NAIDOC cake

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Fifteen-year-old Emily Eggleston struggled with school from the beginning, disliking the environment and facing numerous challenges in education. After an altercation with another student, Emily decided that traditional schooling was not the right fit for her:
“I went, I don't really want to do this anymore, I'm going to do something better.”
Before the incident, Emily’s school had told her about the PCYC Get Set for Work program, a program that funds intensive employment and training assistance to young, disengaged Queenslanders aged 15–19 years. The teachers had mentioned previously that this might be a good opportunity for Emily.
At first Emily was adamant that the program was not for her:
“I thought about it, and I didn't really want to go.”
However, after the fight she decided to call up PCYC and got accepted.
After going through the program Emily now has a whole new outlook on PCYC:
“They got me a trade and helped me; they took me pretty much everywhere that I needed to go to hand in resumes."
Emily now works at Master Butchers Whitsunday and is really enjoying the work she does there. She emphasised how she wanted to work as a butcher from a young age but was not allowed to:
“It was always in the back of my mind. I wanted to do something in agriculture, something to do with Butchering so when the opportunity came up, I was very excited about it.”
Emily is really happy with how far she has come with the program:
“I'm really enjoying my apprenticeship and PCYC is great for anyone who's looking for a job who can't find one on their own”.
“Get Set for Work is one of eight programs that make up the Queensland Government’s Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative.”

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Emily Eggleston, outside her new workplace.

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Proserpine State High School have their annual Year 6 Into Year 7 Parent Information Evening on Wednesday 31st of July.
 
Parents and Carers are invited to take a guided tour around the school grounds taking in the modern learning facilities and grounds. Tours start outside the Administration Office on Ruge Street at 5.30pm with school leaders.
 
An information session will follow in the school’s state-of-the-art Performing Arts Centre at 6pm. Here you will meet the school Principal Don McDermid and key leadership staff who will be there to support your child in their transition to high school life.
 
Important information about educational opportunities and subjects on offer as well as the many extra-curricular opportunities available at Proserpine State High School will be explained in depth. Support systems and relevant app information will also be made available to help parents navigate the high school system. 
 
“We aim to ease the transition from primary to high school and ensure your child is well-prepared for the next step in their educational journey,” Mr McDermid said.

“We encourage parents to ask questions and hear why our families choose Proserpine State High School.”
 
For more information about the event, please email Year 7 Coordinator Nick Kapitz at nkapi5@eq.edu.au.

WHAT: Year 6 Into Year 7 Parent Information Evening
WHERE: Proserpine State High School
WHEN: Wednesday 31st of July

Come on down to the Parent Information Evening if your child is starting high school next year. Photo supplied

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Many consider the senior years of high school to be crucial in shaping future career paths. Whitsunday Christian College equips students with the tools to explore their passions, discover tertiary options, and gain work experience in relevant fields.
The senior pathways program, for year 10 upwards, provides students with several key events and sessions to ease their decision-making process.
Senior Studies and Pathway Coordinator and Teacher of years 9 through to 12, Phoebe Lam, walked through what students can expect from the process:
“We have a lot of different events, making sure that parents understand the terminologies and how to pick the right subjects for their children and to see the reality of what university looks like.”
The plan helps students to think about their education, training and career goals and structure their learning around their abilities, interests and ambitions.
This year, the school has partnered with Busy at Work, James Cook University (JCU) and Ideal Placements.
Busy at Work provides valuable guidance on preparing students for the workforce by helping them craft effective resumes and understand their personality traits to match them with suitable industries.
JCU, provides the opportunity for students to come on their UniX Senior Excursion. This opportunity allows students to stay overnight in one of the colleges to experience what university is like, without their parents, what the rooms are like, see the seminar rooms and to see what the experience is like as a whole.
The students thoroughly enjoyed visiting JCU:
“My highlight was the chemistry tour, which included looking in chemistry labs as well as looking at machines like the nuclear resonance imaging,” Madison Krieger from Year 12 enthused.

“I really enjoyed the biomedical science tour where we looked at the PC2 lab. We spoke to lab technicians about their roles in research and also did a blood smear to examine under microscopes,” Zoe Shepherd-Smith from Year 12, added.

Maribel Gudes from Year 12 stated that her highlight was “exploring all the different tents. Each tent showed and told us all about the different courses that they offer at JCU.”
“I'm now considering JCU for my further education,” Year 11 student Oliver Pook concluded.
The college also partners with Ideal Placements, which provides students who are not interested in university with a comprehensive view of local opportunities. Ideal Placements engage with these students, offering insights and guidance on the numerous opportunities available within their community.
The Police Force and ADF also come to the school to provide students with information and entry requirements.
Additionally, the school hosts an information evening for QTAC and ATAR qualifications, for year 12 students, as well as a visit to Mackay Career Expo.
Phoebe Lam added that Whitsunday Christian College, work hard to “be supportive and make sure that our students get to know about as many different opportunities as possible”.
Book a tour today and learn about what Whitsunday Christian College can offer your child in a personalized and nurturing environment.  
Whitsunday Christian is holding their 2025 Senior Pathways Evening on 6 August commencing at 6pm. This is for all current and potential Year 10 Students and Families.
For enrolment information, contact the school's registrar:
P: 4948 5100 E: mail@whitsunday.qld.edu.au

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Students attending UniX Senior Excursion at JCU
Students looking around JCU Campus
Students attending Seminar Rooms

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From little things big things grow!
No, I am not protesting with Paul Kelly, I’m suggesting you grow from seed!
It is not as challenging as most people seem to think.
I still have so many people ask me for vegetable seedlings, even for vegies that do not transplant well, so let’s talk seeds and how to get it right.

As long as you chose the right month to get started with your seeds and as long as they have enough water and sunlight, you will succeed!

The month of July is a perfect month to plant from seed for most vegetables that grow well in the Whitsundays, with low soil temperatures and warm sunny days.

If you are new to growing vegetables then why not start a small plot in a pot.

IMPORTANT NOTE:
The two main reasons I see people struggle to get results are:

1: Burying their seeds
If you plant your seeds too deep, the first shoot will not have enough stored energy to push its way through to the surface. A general rule of thumb is to plant the seed at twice the depth of the seed’s width. For very small seeds like lettuce and many herb seeds, they are literally sprinkled on the surface and then sprinkle the finest layer of soil on top (with a sieve is perfect). Larger seeds like peas and corn must be pushed into the soil but remember, not too deep! You would be better off planting too shallow, then too deep.

2: Not watering daily, allowing the soil to dry out
It is essential for germination that the soil remains moist. This means watering every morning without fail. The soil must not dry out in this crucial period of a seed’s transition.
I sow all my vegetable seeds directly into the ground and as I am not at home during the day (due to work commitments) I water my seeds in the morning and then cover the soil until the green shoots pop out of the ground. Your vegetable seeds do not need the sun to germinate, they need the correct soil temperature and moisture, so covering them from direct sunlight is not an issue.  

Note: Don’t forget to label your seeds. You think you’ll remember what you have planted and three weeks later you’ll regret you didn’t label.

It pays to keep in mind that different vegetables take a different length of time to be ready for picking. Here is a bit of a guide of what takes how long before you are harvesting, and these are all things you can be planting this month from seed:

Vegetable Days to Maturity

Lettuce / Rocket 30-60
Kale / Spinach 50-70
Capsicums 70-110
Zucchini 50-100
Tomatoes 80-120
Cabbage 60-120
Carrots 70-120
Corn 80-120
Cucumbers 60-90
Chilli 60-110
Eggplant 90-120
Pea 65-90
Pumpkin 100-140
Radish 40 – 60
Parsnips 120-140
Rhubarb 100-140

And that’s just to name a few! From the end of July your options start to decrease so get your seeds in the ground this month so that in a few months’ time you will be eating from your garden and there is nothing more rewarding than that!

And don’t forget your herbs!
Now’s a great time to plant your seeds for an abundance of:
Basil, Coriander, Dill, Mint, Sage, Thyme, Lemon Balm, Borage, Nasturtium and Parsley.
And I mean abundance! Not only am I NOT paying between $5.00 - $8.00 for a bunch of fresh basil (that I know a lot of people use half of and the rest wilts in the fridge before you throw it out – into the compost I hope), I also have so much growing that it’s time to start making pesto! It is easy to make and is a family favourite in pasta.

There is nothing better than nicking out to the vegetable patch and picking what you need.
There is nothing fresher, you know they are chemical free and best of all they are at your door step.

Did you know?
That bees love herbs too!  If you leave some of your herbs to go to flower, your bees will thank you.  Basil has anti-inflammatory properties; it is a diuretic and helps prevent acne.

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Photo credit: Tropix Photography

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National NAIDOC Week began on Monday 8th July, with a flag-raising ceremony hosted by the Mackay Regional Council, marking the start of a week-long celebration of Indigenous culture, history, and achievements.
The event saw the participation of numerous community members, who gathered to witness the ceremony and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The Tchundal Malar Aboriginal Dancers and the Mackay Torres Strait Islander Cultural Group delivered exceptional performances, captivating the audience with their traditional dances.
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Photo credit: Lee Brake, Mackay Regional Council

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NAIDOC Week
Culture In Full Colour

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Mayor Greg Williamson said the flag-raising ceremony and morning tea was a tremendous tradition that unified the community and kicked off the local NAIDOC celebrations in a meaningful way. “This is a wonderful event that brings our community together to celebrate Indigenous culture, history, and diversity,” he said. Mayor Williamson also highlighted the significance of community involvement and the sharing of culture through performances by the Tchundal Malar Aboriginal Dancers, Mackay Torres Strait Islander Dancers, and local Didgeridoo player Lyndon Francis.
NAIDOC Week will continue today with the NAIDOC Street Parade to Queens Park. Assembly for the parade will begin at 9am in Macalister Street, with the march set to commence at 10am. The parade will conclude at Queens Park around 11am, where the NAIDOC Family Fun Day will feature a showcase of cultural performances and food stalls. Approximately 60 community and cultural information stalls will be onsite until 3pm.
NAIDOC Week is celebrated across Australia in the first week of July each year, from Sunday to Sunday, to recognise and honour the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It offers an opportunity for all Australians to learn about First Nations cultures and histories and to participate in celebrations of the oldest, continuous living cultures on earth.
This year's theme, "Blak, Loud and Proud," emphasises the unyielding spirit of Indigenous communities and invites everyone to stand in solidarity, amplifying voices that have long been silenced. The theme calls for a reclamation of narratives, an amplification of voices, and an unwavering commitment to justice and equality.
The fire represents the enduring strength and vitality of Indigenous cultures, passed down through generations despite numerous challenges. It symbolises the connection to the land, to each other, and to the rich tapestry of traditions that define Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. As this flame is honoured, it kindles the sparks of pride and unity, igniting a renewed commitment to acknowledging, preserving, and sharing the cultural heritage that enriches the nation.
Through collective efforts, a future can be forged where the stories, traditions, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities are cherished and celebrated, enriching the fabric of the nation with the wisdom and contributions of the oldest living culture in the world.
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Caption: Photo credit: Lee Brake, Mackay Regional Council

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Navigating chemotherapy feels a bit like being in a surreal sitcom where the punchlines are tinged with irony. Last week marked the beginning of my chemo journey—an adventure (that nobody wants to be a part of) that’s turning out to be quite the rollercoaster ride.

Imagine this: just hours before my first chemo session, my son, Brydon, decided to test his superhero skills by attempting flight off the bed. Straight onto his head. Ironically, it had been superhero day at daycare, and he had dressed up as a Ninja Turtle.

Spoiler alert: turtles don't fly, especially not off beds. Cue a long evening in ED, superhero costume and all, adding a dramatic twist to a day that already had me packed with nerves and anxiety.

Since that gravity-defying bedtime escapade, my little daredevil hasn't been quite himself. Perhaps it's just unfortunate timing and potentially he's also caught a nasty bug, turning him into a mini-insomniac who's suddenly decided food is optional, but he has been very unsettled and not the same since.

Meanwhile, as I navigate the delightful world of chemo side effects (note the sarcasm), I'm also playing the role of chief comforter and coaxer, trying to bring back the usual sparkle in my son's eyes. Not the easiest to do through nausea, pins and needles in my hands and feet and a host of other unpleasant sensations.

They say when life gives you lemons, make lemonade. Well, let me tell you, lemonade tastes weird along with everything else when you’re going through chemo, so I don’t even know what to do with those lemons anymore.

A positive in my week has been witnessing the colour, passion and fire that comes with NAIDOC Week. Embracing the theme "Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud & Proud," the resilience of our Indigenous community shines brightly, inspiring us all to keep our own fires burning through life's ups and downs.

You can find our NAIDOC coverage on pages 6, 24 and 25 in this edition.

Amanda

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Mackay Pet Rescue Incorporated is deeply moved by Jacob Cook and Limitless Asset Assurance's extraordinary act of kindness.

Jacob Cook and Limitless Asset Assurance's generous donation of time and materials to install secure fencing has profoundly expanded Mackay Pet Rescue Incorporated's capacity to provide safe shelter for more puppies in need of foster care. Jacob's selflessness and dedication have empowered foster carers to open their hearts and homes to these vulnerable little lives, ensuring they receive the care and security they deserve.

Mackay Pet Rescue Incorporated extended their gratitude in a Facebook post to acknowledge Limitless Asset Assurance who donated both their time, and the material, to put up the secure fencing that will allow more puppies to come into foster care.

“Jacob's remarkable act of kindness has filled our hearts with joy and hope,” the Mackay Pet Rescue team commented.

“His selfless donation of time and materials for the fencing has enabled our foster carers to welcome precious puppies into their care,”

“We are forever grateful for his unwavering support and generosity.

“Thank you, Jacob Cook and Limitless Asset Assurance.”

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Jacob Cook and Limitless Asset Assurance donated their time and materials to build fences for the Mackay Pet Rescue Inc team, ensuring pets remain safe and secure while in foster care. Image source: Mackay Pet Rescue Inc (Facebook)

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Mackay has earned accolades on the national stage, receiving a special mention from Australia's new Governor-General, Her Excellency the Honourable Sam Mostyn AC, during her inaugural engagement in Canberra last week.
Following her swearing-in as the 28th Governor-General of Australia, Mostyn officially opened the 2024 National General Assembly (NGA), where Mackay's proactive approach to youth engagement stood out. Mackay Regional Council CEO Scott Owen and Mayor Greg Williamson were present at the event.
Mostyn, known for her advocacy through the Federation of Young Australians, highlighted Mackay's pioneering initiative as the first region in Australia to host the Young Mayors program. This program empowers young people aged 11-17 to serve as democratically elected representatives, giving them a platform to influence local decision-making.
Reflecting on the special mention, Mayor Williamson expressed pride in Mackay's leadership in youth empowerment. "Partnering with the Federation of Young Australians to introduce the Young Mayors program has been a significant step towards fostering youth leadership and community involvement," Mayor Williamson said.
“Mackay was the first region in Australia to partner with the Federation of Young Australians to bring the Young Mayors program here.”
The Young Mayors program offers participants training, mentoring, and funding to execute local projects and campaigns, ensuring that youth voices are not only heard but actively contribute to shaping their communities.

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Mackay’s residents are invited to roll up their sleeves and help plant trees as part of Mackay Regional Council’s National Tree Day event.
This year’s event will be held at Glenfields Park on Wheeler Drive in Glenella on Sunday, July 28, from 8am to 11am.
Mayor Greg Williamson said council was aiming to plant more than 3000 plants at this year’s National Tree Day events, which also includes School’s Tree Day on Friday, July 26.
“These events help to increase the region’s tree canopy coverage and provide essential shade in this popular recreational area,” Mayor Williamson said.
“By participating in National Tree Day, residents can contribute to a greener, healthier future for our region,” he said.
“The benefits of tree planting extend far beyond aesthetics – trees improve air quality, provide habitat for local wildlife and can reduce surface temperatures by up to 20 degrees.”
Mayor Williamson said these types of community events brought people together and fostered a sense of shared responsibility for the environment.
“Whether you’re an avid gardener or just someone who cares about our environment, your help on National Tree Day is invaluable,” he said.
If you would like to play a part in improving the future of our region, you can register as a volunteer for National Tree Day at https://treeday.planetark.org/site/10029535.
Please wear sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and bring a water bottle. If you have your own gardening gloves, bring them along too. A free barbecue will be provided to everyone who participates in this event.
National Tree Day and School’s Tree Day in Mackay is supported by Mackay Regional Council and Mackay Toyota.
Stay up to date on all the latest urban greening events and initiatives by subscribing to council’s urban greening eNewsletter at connectingmackay.com.au/urban-greening.

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Mackay created history last week by becoming one of the first marine rescue units to join volunteer organisation Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ).

MRQ is a new service established under the Marine Rescue Queensland Act 2024, aiming to enhance community safety and improve protections for volunteers.

Marine rescue volunteers undertake approximately 4,000 rescue activations each year, operating across 46 units along Queensland’s coast, with plans in place to transition existing units to MRQ over the next 12 to 18 months.

During the transition period, VMRAQ and AVCGA units yet to transition will continue to provide lifesaving marine rescue services to their communities.

Representatives from across the community were present for the launch, including Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert. Other attendees included Mackay Whitsunday Police District Superintendent Graeme Paine and local police officers as well as local senior representatives from the Queensland Fire Department, Mackay residents and most importantly, the volunteers themselves with their families and friends.

Minister Mark Ryan said, "Our volunteers are everyday Queenslanders that devote their time to help save lives and protecting people while out on the water.

“Over the next 12 to 18 months, we will see more units come onboard as MRQ.

“In the meantime, MRQ, VMRAQ and AVCGA are committed to continue to deliver services across Queensland.”

Commissioner Steve Gollschewski welcomed the Mackay volunteer marine rescue unit into MRQ and said it was an important part of the disaster and emergency management response.

“The relationship and connection with the QPS, in particular the Water Police, has always been strong and we will continue to maintain and support these valuable relationships.

“The QPS will continue to support volunteer marine rescue units as they transition to MRQ to ensure continuity of service and keep Queenslanders safe while out on the water.”

Mackay MP Julieanne Gilbert also commented on the establishment and said that “Mackay has a long proud history of marine volunteering and rescue.

“The transition to MRQ will bring together volunteer groups under one banner and provide a single, integrated base for better access to equipment and greater support at local and regional levels, enhancing delivery of these lifesaving services,” she added.

The large crowd gathered to show their respect for the role of Volunteer Marine Rescue Queensland (VMRQ) in Mackay over a period of almost 60 years and the considerable efforts in recent times to bring about the launch of MRQ Mackay in its place. 

All the speakers at the launch unanimously reinforced just how critical MRQ will be moving forward.

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Mackay joined Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) last week, marking a significant step towards unified marine rescue services across Queensland. Photo source: myPolice Mackay

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