By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

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It is only a matter of months until the start of the 2025 crush, and CANEGROWERS Mackay is urging people thinking of a change to take a look at opportunities in the sugarcane industry. This year, the annual CANEGROWERS Mackay harvest labour campaign is taking an all-of-industry approach.

Our industry offers a broad range of opportunities from farming, harvesting, milling and service businesses. Having an adequate and skilled workforce from paddock to mill and beyond is critical in getting our cane processed and our sugar to market. The growing, harvesting and milling sectors are all interdependent on each other to succeed.

It is important that people see opportunity in the sugar industry. It is an industry with a diversity of jobs where drivers, skilled tradespeople, technicians and growers, and supporting professionals all play a valued role.

As a renewable resource, there is a strong potential future for cane across food, fibre and fuel. In this region alone, there is well over 6 million tonne of cane to harvest and process every year.

As it has been for 15 years, the heart of the campaign is the Canegrowers Mackay Haulout Driver courses, funded through the Queensland Government Skilling Queenslanders for Work program, and delivering 20 new workers every year to the harvesting sector, equipped with basic practical and safety skills.

The four-day courses are conducted on-farm and led by highly experienced grower harvesters. As an added bonus for people new to agriculture, it features RTO-accredited modules in Rural Operations Cert II, this year backed by our new RTO course partner, Civil Safety, who will work alongside the experienced grower-harvester training team of Ron Gurnett, Glen Brady and Zac Borg.

We are always thankful for the expertise these growers bring to the course, delivering practical advice and guidance to industry newcomers. Not to mention Ron Gurnett making his farm and machinery available for the trainee’s use.

It is vitally important for our harvest sector that all Haulout driver positions are filled. As a service to industry, CANEGROWERS Mackay are committed to helping people get basic training and become employed in our industry.

C Class (drivers) licenses are all that is required to drive the more common tractor/trailer haulout combination used in Mackay region, while HR and, in some cases, HC is needed for trucks. There is a demand for drivers that have HR and HC licenses across milling areas also.

The haulout course gives a great ‘bootcamp’ start to the industry, harvest contractors and growers will still need to deliver some on the job training and site-specific inductions.

We welcome people to apply for jobs and training. There are about 130 harvesting groups across the region. Many have people who return year on year, but many are looking for new staff also. Equally, there are millers and businesses right along the supply chain looking for staff.

In recent years, we have had interest from younger retirees looking to supplement their retirement income with work through the cooler months. We have had interest from all walks of life: backpackers, women, school-leavers. From people who become tired of working the drive-in-drive-out working away from home lifestyle, and instead be home every night.

Registrations are open now for the Haulout Driver courses, closing on Wednesday 16 April. The four-day courses start 13 and 20 May. You can find out more about Haulout Driver training and see the CANEGROWERS Mackay jobs board on our website. www.mackaycanegrowers.com.au.

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Haulout Senior Trainer Ron Gurnett shares a lifetime's experience in harvest with course participants

Haulout Driver training is an excellent way to get acquainted with industry procedures. Photo credit: Kirili Lamb

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The Queensland Government is investing $2 million in targeted action to tackle the state’s escalating feral pig problem, easing the burden on regional communities and supporting the agricultural sector.

Following years of limited progress, feral pig populations have exploded across Queensland, causing widespread damage to crops, natural ecosystems and waterways. In 2023 alone, ABARES reported $95 million in production losses and control costs due to feral pigs in Queensland.

The new investment includes $1 million to develop a Queensland Feral Pig Action Plan, designed in consultation with key stakeholders and tailored to meet the unique challenges of different regions. The remaining $1 million will support the development of innovative control methods over the next three years.

This initiative adds to the government’s broader $50 million, four-year commitment to strengthening biosecurity across the state.

Regional feral pig coordinators, funded by the state government, are already on the ground in six key areas—Cairns, Longreach, Mareeba, Townsville, Mt Isa, and more—working alongside landholders, local councils, and agencies on coordinated control measures including baiting, trapping and aerial shooting.

Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett said reducing feral pig numbers would take investment, innovation and teamwork.

“We need to make a dent in feral pig populations, not only to protect primary production but to mitigate biosecurity risks,” Minister Perrett said.

“Feral pigs cost primary producers millions of dollars every year.

“We know the only way to get on top of this growing problem is to have a coordinated plan with everyone from landholders to the Government working together.

“Whether you’re a grazier out west, a sugarcane farmer up north, a strawberry grower on the granite belt, a natural resource manager in the Wet Tropics, a traditional owner on the Cape, or part of a local, state, or Commonwealth government agency—your ideas, expertise, and action are essential.”

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From The Armchair Warrior

The 2022 election was all about the Climate. The results reflected this with a swag of teal independents announcing themselves on the national political stage, while the Greens picked up seats in Brisbane for the first time. But a lot has changed in three years and in 2025 the election is about the Cost of Living. Making the case for who can ease the pressures on managing household costs will go a long way to claiming a victory on May 3rd.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers in his budget speech a few short weeks ago announced income tax cuts, saying a ‘modest’ cut will come in from July 2026. The cut amounts to about $5 per week for every worker.

Opposition leader, Peter Dutton’s reply two nights later argued that $5 next year is hardly help and does nothing for people now. Dutton’s tax relief counter is to halve the Fuel Excise, cutting 25 cents a litre for every road user for 12 months with a review at the end of that 12 months.

Dutton vowed to introduce this measure to parliament in the first sitting day of a Coalition government.

The government and opposition have hotly debated who is best served to save households on their power bills. Albanese and Climate Change Minister, Chris Bowen argue for staying the course with continued investment in green technologies said to be the way to go with more wind and solar. Meanwhile Dutton has said that under a government he leads a greater emphasis will be placed on opening up gas supplies with a quarantined amount of Australian produced gas set aside for Aussie users.

Long term Dutton’s vision is nuclear power for base load power. His plan is that nuclear power plants will be built adjacent to existing coal fire power stations, pointing out that existing infrastructure means thousands of kilometres of new polls and wires, like that required for wind and solar is not needed.

The Albanese promise of $275 cheaper power bills has not materialised. Instead, the current government has given each electricity account $75 per quarter rebates over 12 months and has announced the rebate to be extended a further 2 quarters.

With the cost of everything, from supermarket items, to insurance, to healthcare, and accommodation rising, many Aussies are finding less in their pockets.

This observer’s question is – Over the next few weeks of this election campaign, will voters see any final hand on heart promises to reverse a sliding standard of living?

Bottom Line – The party who can best sell their cost of living policies will be well positioned come election day.

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With deer breeding season fast approaching, the Centre for Invasive Species Solutions is reminding communities of the heightened risk of feral deer on the road as well as increased activity and damage across Australia’s landscapes, including in suburban streets.

Dr Annelise Wiebkin, National Deer Management Coordinator, says feral deer cause serious damage in farmland, native bushland and urban areas and that the breeding season is a particularly critical time to notice their presence and manage their impacts.

“Feral deer activity will intensify in the coming weeks, so people may see deer more often or even for the first time in a new area. It’s important that the community reports sightings on the free DeerScan app,” Dr Wiebkin said.

“We have a small window of opportunity to track their spread and support control efforts, particularly in areas where feral deer numbers are still low.”

“Feral deer trash and eat native vegetation, ringbark trees, create wallows, trample undergrowth and spread weed seeds, all things that threaten the survival of native flora and fauna,” Dr Wiebkin said.

The Centre’s Chief Executive Officer, Shauna Chadlowe, warns that feral deer are becoming an increasing concern to communities across the country, with extreme weather events – such as droughts, floods and fires – pushing them into new areas.

“It’s astonishing – deer have now spread to every state and territory in Australia,” she said.

“We need everyone to stay alert.

“Every Australian can play a role by reporting feral deer sightings or signs, like tracks and damage. These reports are crucial – they help drive coordinated efforts to control new deer populations before they spiral out of control.

“By acting now, we can stop their spread and save Australia millions of dollars each year,” she added.

Feral deer also hit the farming community hard, with Ted Rowley, Independent Chair of the National Feral Deer Action Plan Committee, showcasing the importance of control efforts.

“Farmers are fed up: deer cause $69 million in agricultural productivity losses and $4.5 million in vehicle and train collisions each year. The Plan is key to stopping these losses," he said.

Jenny O’Sullivan, champion of Victoria’s Cape Liptrap community deer control group says “The free DeerScan app is really important for our community group. Reported sightings enable us to know where the deer are moving about in our community, and to focus our control efforts more effectively”.

Deer by the numbers: costing us ‘deerly’

• Six species of feral deer have become widespread in Australia.

• Deer numbers in Australia are estimated at between 1 and 2 million.

• Feral deer cost the Australian economy about $91.3 million in 2021, including:

o $69.1 in agricultural losses

o $17.8 million in public expenditure for control efforts

o $3.3 million in motor vehicle impacts

o $1.2 million in train collisions

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1: Photo credit: Darryn Mundt

2: Photo credit: Peter Bradford

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Cars For Community Brings New Wheels To Collinsville Youth Coalition

The Cars for Community initiative is revving up real-world learning and making a meaningful difference, proving that it’s much more than just a car giveaway.

Now in its third year, the program sees students spend the school year restoring donated or purchased vehicles, bringing them up to roadworthy condition before gifting them to local not-for-profit organisations in need.

Automotive Trainer Simon Korneliussen shared that the program is as much about education as it is about giving back to the community.

“We receive cars that have either been purchased or donated, and we work with our students throughout the year to restore them to roadworthy condition,” he explained.

“Once they’re ready, we pass them on to organisations that can truly benefit from them.”

The most recent handover saw a restored vehicle delivered to the Collinsville Youth Coalition. Originally purchased for $600, the car required significant repairs before it could be deemed roadworthy.

“This one’s been a long time coming — it needed quite a bit of work,” Mr Korneliussen explained, reflecting on the time and effort invested in the project.

The initiative offers dual benefits, where students gain hands-on mechanical experience and valuable teamwork skills, while local community organisations receive much-needed assets that can make a tangible difference.

For student Stathi Kypridis, the project has been a rewarding experience.

“It feels great, to be honest,” he said.

“It’s really rewarding to see something we worked on go to someone who needs it, and I’ve definitely learnt a lot about cars and tools.”

Sixteen-year-old Amelia Dos Santos added that the experience was both challenging and educational.

“Knowing the car was going to people who need it made us want to work even harder,” she said.

“It was a challenge, but working with the other students and asking questions really helped.”

For the Collinsville Youth Coalition, the donation will have a big impact.

“We do a lot of transporting gear to and from events,” said Youth Activities Coordinator Luella Widt.

“We didn’t have a vehicle that could support moving larger items — now we can do everything ourselves.

“There’s really no price on that kind of independence.”

The initiative wouldn’t be possible without the support of generous local sponsors, including Repco, OGR Tyres, DC Power, and Bakers Creek Wreckers.

“We couldn’t run this initiative without our sponsors,” Mr Korneliussen said.

“It’s all about building relationships with the community and creating pathways into the automotive industry for our students.”

With more vehicles in the pipeline and students gaining industry-relevant skills, the Cars for Community initiative is proving to be a powerful engine for change — both in the classroom and across the region.

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Cars for Community gifted a fully restored vehicle to the Collinsville Youth Coalition, giving students hands-on automotive experience while empowering a local organisation with vital transport support.

Automotive Trainer Simon Korneliussen

Work experience student, Stathi Kypridis

Youth Activities Coordinator Luella Widt. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Last Friday marked a significant milestone for the Sarina community, as Sarina Hospital celebrated one year since opening the doors of its state-of-the-art facility on Brewers Road.

Staff, volunteers, project teams and community supporters gathered to recognise the hospital’s first year of operation — a year marked by growth, resilience and commitment to delivering high-quality health care close to home.

Director of Nursing Pauline Maude reflected on the journey, commending her team and acknowledging the importance of taking time to celebrate achievements.

“We are incredibly proud of the facility we have today. Our team has experienced remarkable growth, adapting and streamlining our processes together,” she said.

“The celebration today is about taking a moment to recognise those achievements which ultimately contribute to the best possible outcomes for our patients.”

In its first 12 months, Sarina Hospital has become an essential part of the region’s health service network, with more than 9,400 Emergency Department presentations, over 4,000 inpatient days, close to 1,100 x-ray examinations, and upwards of 3,000 outpatient appointments.

The numbers tell a story of a busy hospital — but more than that, they represent real people in the community receiving timely, professional care when it matters most.

The hospital has quickly become a valued asset to Sarina, not just for its services, but for the dedication of the people behind it. Community member Leanne expressed her appreciation, and said, “Thanks to all the staff and fellow co-workers for the past 12 months!

“It really is a fabulous facility, and the effort put in to get it up, running and established has been nothing short of miraculous.”

The new hospital, which replaced the ageing original facility, was built to meet the current and future needs of the growing Sarina region. With modern infrastructure, advanced technology, and a focus on patient comfort, the facility has significantly enhanced the healthcare experience for both patients and staff.

Having access to quality health care locally is vital for regional communities like Sarina. It means patients can avoid long travel times for urgent or ongoing treatment, and families have the peace of mind that support is nearby. The hospital also provides local employment, training opportunities, and a sense of security for the entire community.

The one-year milestone served not only as a moment of reflection but also as a promise for the future.

“Happy Birthday Sarina Hospital, what an amazing team.”

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Sarina Hospital celebrated its first birthday last Friday, marking a year of delivering vital, high-quality healthcare to the local community and recognising the dedicated team behind its success. Photo source: MHHS (Facebook)

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A huge congratulations to Bowen’s own Jacob Ross, a Year 10 student at Bowen State High School, who has been selected as a delegate for the Ministerial Student Advisory Council. Jacob attended the first meeting in Brisbane on the 28th of March, where he joined 17 other young leaders from across Queensland to discuss important issues affecting students.

The Ministerial Student Advisory Council is an invaluable platform for the Minister for Education to hear the voices of students from all corners of the state. As a North Queensland representative, Jacob is in a unique position to bring the concerns and ideas of local students to the forefront. This achievement is a significant honour, not only for Jacob but for Bowen State High School as well.

Jacob, who is passionate about his school studies, instrumental music, and hockey, has expressed a deep commitment to promoting safe and supportive environments in schools.

“I am passionate about safe schools that promote the growth of healthy minds and bodies," he says, "I look forward to the opportunity to collaborate with like-minded students to help shape the future of education in Queensland schools."

Minister for Education and the Arts, John-Paul Langbroek MP, highlighted the council’s focus on key issues such as bullying, mental health, and the future of virtual learning.

Jacob’s participation in this important initiative will allow him to contribute to discussions on issues like these and many more, ensuring that the voices of young Queenslanders are heard.

This is an exciting opportunity for Jacob to make a difference and to bring a North Queensland perspective to the broader conversation about education in Queensland and we wish him all the best in this rewarding endeavour and two year council position.

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Jacob Ross in Brisbane ready to attend the Council meeting. Photo provided: Bowen State High School.

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After a heartbreaking fire tore through Sarina Junior Rugby League’s team shed earlier this year, the club was left without vital equipment and its young players without a home base. Now, there’s a flicker of hope on the horizon, with Federal Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry, committing $200,000 to help rebuild the shed – if an LNP Government is elected.

Michelle Landry said she was proud to stand with the club and help restore what had been lost.

“Sarina Junior Rugby League is more than just a footy club, it’s part of the heart and soul of this community,” Ms Landry said.

“This club has helped shape some of Australia’s top NRL talent, like Reuben Cotter, Daly Cherry-Evans and Brianna Clark.

“We need to make sure the next generation of players has the same opportunities and support.”

Ms Landry said the $200,000 commitment would ensure the club can build back bigger and better, with upgraded facilities that support players, volunteers and the wider Sarina community.

“When local clubs lose essential infrastructure like this, the whole community feels it. This funding will help the team get back on their feet, rebuild their shed and boost the morale of everyone involved.

“This is what strong local representation looks like; standing up for the clubs and communities that make our region great.”

Club representative Aimee Korte said the support from Michelle Landry had lifted spirits and given the players and volunteers hope for the future.

“We’re incredibly grateful to Michelle for not just listening, but taking real action to help our club,” Ms Korte said.

“This funding will go a long way in helping us rebuild. It means our players will once again have a place to store their gear, gather as a team, and feel proud of their club.

“Our young players train hard and play with heart. Having the right facilities shows them that their efforts matter and that the community is behind them.”

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Back row: Deslee Stevens, Aimee Korte, Lain Korte, Ian Korte. Front row: Shae Korte, Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry, Shannon Korte, Mackay Regional Council Deputy Mayor Karen May, Sophia Hussey, Zoe Hussey. Photos supplied

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A three-part social media training series has equipped local community groups with the skills and confidence to better promote their events, engage with their audience and maximise their online presence. Thanks to the sponsorship of Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank, participants attended free of charge, making the program accessible to a wide range of local not-for-profits.

Delivered by Rebel Nation, the training covered essential topics such as content planning, engagement strategies, social media insight, and the power of digital tools like ChatGPT and Canva. Participants walked away with practical knowledge and newfound confidence to grow their online reach.

Karen Perry from the Sarina Poultry Society said the training has transformed how she manages social media for her group. “Before, I felt I wasn’t very good at writing – I knew what I wanted to say but didn’t know how to express it. Now, I’ve started using ChatGPT to help write posts and it’s great. I’ve also been able to get organised ahead of time with our posts, so that when I go away, our page is still active.”

Marg Rowlands, Chaplain at Sarina and Swayneville Primary Schools, also saw a huge shift in her approach to managing the Sarina District Schools Chaplaincy Committee Facebook page.

“Previously, I was scared to post in case I got something wrong. But now, I feel 100% better about posting – and we’ve already got some live. I’m still a little nervous, but I’ve learned not to be afraid to try, experiment and see what works. That’s where the reviewing your data comes in – if something doesn’t work, it’s not a failure, it’s just a lesson for next time.”

Marg expressed her appreciation for the sponsorship that made the training possible. “The wealth of knowledge imparted over these three sessions was outstanding. For a not-for-profit to benefit from that wisdom without having to pay for it – thanks to the support of Community Bank Sarina – is phenomenal. We are so, so grateful.”

This training series has given community groups the confidence and skills to share their stories, promote their events and engage more effectively online. Thanks to Community Bank Sarina’s sponsorship, participants walked away feeling empowered, equipped with new tools and ready to take their social media to the next level.

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The local community group members who attended the social media training series, sponsored by Community Bank Sarina, along with training facilitator Jade McAuley (Rebel Nation) and Board Chair Karen May (Community Bank Sarina)

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First Nations Artists And Craftspeople

Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF) has issued a Queensland-wide call to First Nations artists and craftspeople to showcase their culture and wares to thousands of visitors at this year’s Tanks Arts Centre-based Artisans Showcase between Thursday 10th and Sunday 13th of July 2025.

Set within the botanic surrounds of the event’s new Tanks Arts Centre hub, the Artisans Showcase, one of CIAF’s much-loved program highlights, will provide a welcoming and inspiring marketplace featuring a new and diverse range of authentic Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander arts and crafts at various price points, from meaningful gifts to artefacts and collectibles.

CIAF’s Artistic Director, Teho Ropeyarn, said that while the art market is traditionally one of the most popular and visited attractions of the annual event, it has been rebranded Artisans Showcase to better reflect the organisation’s commitment to showcasing authentic, high-quality artwork and craftsmanship.

“Importantly, the Artisans Showcase will provide an inclusive, ethical platform to present and sell a diverse and culturally rich range of arts and crafts celebrating the heritage, traditional techniques, and creative expressions of Queensland’s First Nations communities,” said Mr Ropeyarn.

CIAF will span four days and will feature the work of approximately 300 visual artists and 100 performers across a multifaceted program of mostly free and family-friendly events.

Highlights include this year’s 'Pay Attention!' themed art fair, 'Look & Listen' fashion performances, The Artisans Showcase, Eat Street, music, cultural dance and demonstrations, Masterclasses, CIAF Talks (with keynote speakers and panel discussions) and more.

CIAF is a platform for independent artists, galleries, art centres, and market stallholders. It is one of Queensland’s most significant cultural events, with a far-reaching social and economic impact.

Queensland’s First Nations artisans are invited to apply between now and 30 April 2025. To submit an EOI scan the QR Code or visit https://ciaf.com.au/ciaf-2025-artisans-showcase-eoi-now-open-0

WHAT: Cairns Indigenous Art Fair 2025 | Theme: Pay Attention!
WHEN: Thursday 10th to Sunday 13th, July.
WHERE: Tanks Arts Centre, Edge Hill, Cairns.

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During the school term, 170,000 children across Queensland are fed breakfast through school-based breakfast programs, but with school holidays upon us, the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre has created a program to support families in need when school is out.

The Brekky Pack program provides a package of breakfast foods to help families across the region. The centre sought sponsorship to fund the packs that include: a choice of cereal, vegemite or honey, bread, milk, butter, Milo, pancake mix and juice. There were 20 families selected to receive the packs, with collection on Thursday and Friday 3rd and 4th April, ahead of the two-week school holidays.

Whitsunday Transit and Smooth Sailing Financial Consulting each sponsored 10 packs and the program aims to distribute packs at the beginning of each holiday break.

“We know that families are relying on school-based breakfast programs because of the cost of groceries, and our concern was that children won’t have that over the holidays," Rebecca Woods Executive Officer.

The Centre also provides $15 pantry packs that would retail at around $70 and other low and no-cost food options from our My Community Pantry program, these pantry packs are not means tested and are available to any who are struggling to fill their pantries. “The pantry was accessed 362 times in March and 347 in February, for bread, meat, fruit and veg," Ms Woods said

“The Centre is advocating to set up a Food Bank in the near future,” she said, as this would help support these programs and the people they help. So, if you need support, or would like to be involved with sponsoring the program, reach out to the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre on: 4946 7850 or visit them at: 14-20 Hazelwood Crescent, Cannonvale.

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Rebecca Woods, Executive Officer with a pack on display. Photo supplied: Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre

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In today’s busy world, one-on-one time with the people you love can be a rarity, and I’ll admit, I’m often guilty of not making enough time for it with my own family.

Last Sunday, however, I made a point to carve out a two-hour window for just my son and me. We often have ‘family time’ with other members of our family, but when I thought about it, I realised we haven’t had much time just the two of us lately.

We took a trip into Airlie Beach, grabbed some sushi, and then had ice cream — enjoying both while we sat on a towel on the sandy slope of the lagoon, looking at the water and the turquoise ocean beyond.

We tested the water and were delighted by the temperature, so we stripped down to our swimmers and raced in. We swam a little, then played ‘catch’ for almost an hour. It was absolute heaven. We chatted the whole time, and I really felt like I got to know my son again. Afterwards, he told me that he loved me and asked if we could do it again soon. Of course, I said yes.

If you get the chance to have some one-on-one time with a loved one over this Easter holiday, I strongly recommend it - taking the time to connect with those who matter most can offer a refreshing perspective on what really matters.

Similarly, as the Federal Election approaches, it’s important to make informed decisions about what truly matters for our region and we’ll be covering the election thoroughly while striving to remain fair and impartial.

Next Tuesday, we’ll be live-streaming the members-only ‘Meet the Candidates’ event hosted by the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce & Industry. If you’re not yet a Chamber member, now is a great time to sign up and attend an event that promises to be highly engaging.

When deciding who to vote for this election, ask yourself: Who would you want a one-on-one with? Which candidate would listen to your needs and the needs of our region the most?

Rach

Quote of the week: "You will never look back on life and say 'I spent too much time with my kids'"

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With Shell Wardrope

Local hero Michelle Shell Wardrope, whose determination and resilience have inspired the community, has successfully completed her 50-squats-per-day challenge throughout March, all while adjusting to life with only one leg after a life-changing incident last year.

In March 2023, Shell tragically lost her leg after a soil-borne bacterial infection entered her bloodstream following a fall. Despite the trauma, she channeled her energy into a mission to raise funds for the Royal Flying Doctors, the service that helped bring her home after her initial recovery.

To support her cause, Shell invited the community to join her at a special on March 30th, at the Airlie Beach Foreshore. The afternoon was filled with heartwarming moments as people gathered to cheer her on, including a special challenge to participate in her penultimate set of 50 squats.

Shell would like to make sure a big thank you goes out to everyone who made the event possible. The Mayor of Whitsunday Ry Collins joined Shell for the event, showing his support for her inspiring journey.

Mr Whipsunday kept everyone cool with free ice creams, while the local Bendigo Bank generously donated chairs and tables for the BBQ. Beagles Pizzas also provided delicious pizza for attendees, ensuring no one went hungry.

Although Shell’s journey has been difficult, she’s shown incredible strength and positivity, raising over $1,000 for the Royal Flying Doctors. The event was a beautiful display of community spirit and support, and Shell was overwhelmed by the love and encouragement from all who attended.

“I’m getting way more out of it than I ever thought I would,” Shell said. "This community has really uplifted me, and I’m so grateful for every person who has supported my journey."

The challenge may be over, but Shell’s message of resilience and the importance of helping others will continue to inspire the Whitsundays for years to come.

With the funds from the 50-squat challenge going to the Royal Flying Doctors, Shell is also currently running a personal GoFundMe page for anyone who would like to donate to help her get a new car so she can become more mobile.

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Shell Wardrope and her family with Mayor Ry Collins who attended the recent community event

Shell and her husband next to the Airlie Beach sign, moments after she completed the last set of 50-squats per day for the month of March. Photos supplied

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Collinsville is set to shine even brighter, with Federal Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry, announced this week a $250,000 commitment to deliver the next stage of the town’s beautification project if an LNP Government is elected in May.

This fresh injection of funding will deliver Stage 2 of the revitalisation, focusing on landscaping both entrances to Collinsville and enhancing the area leading to the cemetery, ensuring the first and last impressions of the town reflect the heart and pride of the local community.

Michelle Landry said the project would build on the solid foundation already laid by the LNP Government through the $741,750 delivered in 2022 under the highly successful Building Better Regions Fund for Stage 1 of the Collinsville CBD upgrades.

“I’ve fought hard to deliver real infrastructure for Collinsville. This has included a brand new QCWA hall, to the Stage 1 town centre upgrade and $1.2 million for the waterpark,” Ms Landry said.

“This additional $250,000 commitment is about finishing what we started. Collinsville is a hardworking, proud community and it deserves to look just as good as it feels to live in.

“Under the former LNP Government, we backed regional towns like Collinsville with funding that made a real difference. If elected, the LNP will get back to delivering for our regions, not forgetting them like Labor has.

“The new commitment is a clear sign the LNP is delivering for regional Queensland and the people of Collinsville.”

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Federal Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry and Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins in Collinsville where Ms Landry made a $250,000 commitment to deliver the next stage of the town’s beautification project if an LNP Government is elected in May. Photo supplied

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In May this year, Proserpine Golf Club will celebrate 100 years of chasing that little white ball. Today, the club boasts over 300 members who tee off on what is now regarded as a championship standard golf course. But 100 years ago, it was a vastly different scenario.
How it all began …

The Proserpine Golf Club was born when a group of golf lovers met at Phaff’s Paddock (the current site of Whitsunday Gold Coffee Plantation) to swing a club. Men such as local dentist of the time, W E (Bill) Hood, Claude Kieran, Matt Ingram, Fred Barnes and Arthur Toohey are some of the names of early golfers recorded in past notes from these early days. Soon, many other local citizens and their wives joined and a club was formed with Council Chairman, Bob Shepherd as patron.

A small golf course with no recognised fairways was drawn up. However, the paddock had to be shared with several football clubs. The local Ramblers, All Blacks and other footballers played on this field and the place became overcrowded however it served the purpose until the committee decided to lease the showgrounds.

But conditions at the showgrounds were poor. The only shade available was provided by the spreading branches of trees and water had to be taken there in a bottle. A shelter was desperately required and so too were funds. Mr C E Mazlin spearheaded a working party which gathered black mangrove timber and built a rustic shelter – such ingenuity.

Eventually, a small clubhouse was erected a short distance from the present entrance to the grounds and opened in 1932. From there, players hit the ball down the fairway towards the horse paddock. After that, it was across the show ring where the fence rails were often a hazard, then towards the cattle yards and then Pig Creek and by the time the course had been completed, players had done a full circuit of the showgrounds.

The Golf Club provided more than just a sporting opportunity. It was also a wonderful social occasion. The women would make afternoon tea and the men brought a dozen bottles of beer. Soon competitions were held with Bowen, Mackay and Collinsville.
Moving along …

After World War 2, moves were made towards securing the club’s own land but finances and suitable land were stalling points until 1948 when it was decided to renegotiate with Mr Gordon Edwards for the land now owned by the club. Mr Tom Foxlee also agreed to sell the club 10 acres bringing the total area for the course to 42 acres.

Thanks to volunteers with tractors, ploughs and graders, the hard work of clearing and burning gums, ti-trees and other scrub, especially on weekends, was accomplished. Next there was a course to be planned. This was drafted out by Frank Wilson, Joe Carter, Alan Spence, John McLellan and Lyall Jones. And then a “new” clubhouse was necessary as the one at the showgrounds had served its purpose. Mr W Greenwood’s old home, said to have been built around the 1890s, was purchased and its removal and reconstruction were supervised by Mr Dick Oakhill.

About 350 people attended the official opening in May 1952 which was performed by Mr Lloyd Roberts, Member for Whitsunday. When Club Patron, Mr Charlie Faust, drove off the first ball from No 1 Tee to the accompaniment of loud applause, the men and associates did a crocodile dance with Arthur Neill on the bagpipes. The band rendered lively music and celebrations continued well into midnight.
Fast Forward to 2025 …

From an impromptu rest under a tree, with a hasty swig from a water bottle, members can now revive their flagging spirits with a cool drink and a comfortable rest in a spacious, air-conditioned clubhouse after playing on the rolling greens of what is now (since 1971) an 18 hole course.

Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum

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