Hi Everyone,

Happy Easter! I don’t know about you, but I’m really looking forward to the long weekend and the chance to relax and catch up with friends.

This past weekend was a special one for me. As some of you will know, I’ve been spending my spare time over the past few months helping care for a sea turtle named Betty. She came into the care of Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc. after suffering from float syndrome and a boat strike that left a serious wound on her shell.

During her time in our care, I formed a real bond with her. Betty has such a quirky personality and quickly became known for her insatiable appetite — we often joked we could barely keep up with her food demands! One of my favourite things she’d do was pop her head up the moment I walked in, as if to say, “Feed me!” She also loved putting her head under the running water during tank cleans.

Over the weekend, we released Betty back into the ocean at Shute Harbour. It was such a proud and emotional moment. Watching her swim off strong and healthy reminded me how far she’d come. You can read more about her release and see some beautiful photos by my friend Joschua Wittorff on page 6.

In other news, I had the pleasure of writing a feature on Hamilton Island’s stunning new resort, The Sundays (pages 12–17). It’s an absolutely stunning venue and writing about it made me wish I was on holiday!

Lastly, due to space constraints, Ruth 2 Reef is on 'pause' this week, but fear not! An extended version will be published in next week’s edition of Whitsunday Life.

What an amazing week!

Ruth

"If you are brave enough to say goodbye, life will reward you with a new hello." - Paulo Coelho

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Who doesn’t love a Soda? This sweet 3-month-old pup was heartbreakingly found dumped at the Bowen tip, but you’d never guess it from his happy, playful nature. Soda is full of love and can’t wait to share it with his forever family.

Soda is a Bull Arab X, medium to large in size, and great with both kids and other dogs. He’s a snuggly soul who adores naps and is doing wonderfully with his toilet training.

While he’s mostly a gentle boy, Soda has a little watchdog spirit—he’ll let you know if someone’s nearby with a quick bark. One of his favourite things? Curling up beside his foster family’s kids’ beds at night, keeping them company as they sleep.

Could Soda be your new best mate?

If you'd like to adopt Soda contact Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc:
• Phone: 0459 757 455
• Facebook: Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue
• Email: bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com

Rehoming fee: $400
Age: 3 months
Sex: Male
Breed: Bull Arab X
Other dogs: yes
Kids: yes
Fences: 5ft

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Adopt Soda the beautiful 3-month-old puppy!

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This year’s Mayor’s Charity Ball will be taking place at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on the 26th July 2025.

We are proud to announce that the masquerade themed ball will be raising fund for three incredible charities – BMA CQ Rescue, the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, and the Bowen Community Centre.

Tickets go on sale on Monday, 21 April 2025 – don’t miss your chance to be part of this important cause!

For more information, head to Council’s website.

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As ANZAC Day approaches, preparations are well underway for a touching local tradition that has quietly grown into a cherished community event.

Now in its tenth year, the annual flag ceremony at Proserpine Cemetery pays tribute to nearly 400 service men and women laid to rest there.

Organised by Lyn Burke, the event sees flags placed beside the graves of veterans, including Boer War veterans, Gallipoli survivors, Rats of Tobruk, Prisoners of War, Commandos & many more men & women who served this country.

It’s a gesture of respect and remembrance that organiser Lynn Burke says began as a labour of love and has become something much larger, with growing support from the community.

Lynn said it’s been great to see the youth come along to the flag ceremonies and they will become the future of this event.

Each row of graves will have a bag containing a flag, maps and brief stories about the service personnel, giving community members an understanding of the lives and sacrifices being honoured and who they are erecting a flag beside.

Guests and volunteers will be spread throughout both the old and new cemetery sections during the morning, placing flags and quietly acknowledging the stories tied to each grave. This year a flag will be placed on World War 2 soldier Arthur Read for the first time.

The flags will remain in place for about two weeks, allowing visitors to wander through the site and pay their respects.

What: 400 Flags For Cemetery
Where: Proserpine Cemetery Old and New
When: Monday 21st April 9am (Easter Monday)

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Federal Member For Dawson Andrew Willcox MP with members of the Whitsunday Old Iron Restorers Club at the flag laying ceremony at Proserpine Cemetery last year. Photo supplied

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The Whitsundays region recently welcomed the R U OK? Conversation Convoy, with events held in both Airlie Beach and Bowen, bringing locals together in a show of support, connection, and awareness for suicide prevention.

On April 6th, the convoy made its stop at the Coral Sea Marina carpark in Airlie Beach, where the community gathered on the hill to enjoy an afternoon of conversation, learning, and reflection. With a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, attendees explored the caravan display, participated in games, and accessed free mental health resources. Many shared a chat over a game of checkers or simply watched the sunset together with a sausage in hand from the free BBQ.

Matt Stokes from the WSPN reflected saying, “Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network were honoured to host the R U OK? Conversation Convoy in Airlie and Bowen. Their message aligns with ours, essentially looking out for each other, and asking the question, R U OK?” He also praised the visiting convoy adding, “The R U OK? team were a fantastic group and we had many great conversations with the public.”

The turnout and energy across both locations showed the power of community when it comes to supporting mental health. Whether people came to learn how to support someone else or to seek help for themselves, the convoy provided a safe, inclusive space for hope, help, and healing. Remember, you can ask Are You Ok? Any Day.

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Nicky and Rob from WSPN handing out pamphlets. Photo supplied: Matt Stokes of WSPN.
Bob, Mel, Kezza, Donna, and Nicky from WSPN holding up the R U OK? letters. Photo supplied: Matt Stokes of WSPN.

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Last week, a local mother experienced a heart-warming reminder of the power of kindness at Silly Solly’s. She had gone in for sparklers for a friend's cake, a simple errand that quickly turned into a moment of connection.

While waiting at the counter, she noticed a woman drop a spray bottle. Without a second thought, the mother picked it up for her – just a small, polite gesture.

As she was about to leave, the woman approached her with a gift.

And while it caught her by surprise, the mother politely declined, but the woman insisted, and said, “You deserve to treat yourself.”

This unexpected act of generosity left a lasting impression on the mother. It wasn’t the gift that moved her most, but the kindness and sincerity behind it.

“There are some amazing people out there and you never truly know what someone else is going through,” the mother reflected.

“An act of kindness goes a long way.”

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Welcome to Week One of the school holidays – how’s everyone holding up? Still got snacks in the pantry? Still friends with your children? A moment of silence for the grandparents who thought retirement meant rest, only to be ambushed with an entire fortnight of babysitting duty. You are the true heroes of the holiday hustle.

If you’re a Northern Beaches local, you’ll know school holidays are in full swing by one tell-tale sign: the roads are EMPTY. Suddenly that usual 55-minute crawl into town turns into a breezy 10-minute coast.

Of course, if you’re still working, navigating childcare is like one of those twisted escape room puzzles — except there’s glitter glue involved and someone’s yelling “I’m bored!” every four minutes. Thankfully, we’ve got some solid survival tools. Exhibit A: Cheeky Little Monkeys. Yes, it’s a play centre, but also, it has a creche service where you can drop and go for three blissful hours. Whether you use that time to do groceries, get a coffee, or finally vacuum under the couch cushions without tripping over a scooter, we won’t judge. I personally use it to clean the house. In peace. Sweet, sweet peace.

And if you’re dreaming of a few kid-free hours with your significant other, they even run monthly date nights – in fact, there’s one on tonight. If you're reading this early enough, maybe give them a ring and see if there's still a spot. Freedom may be only a phone call away.

For those looking to make the most of the Easter break, pages 26-27 are packed with family-friendly inspo. Next week’s edition will be out a day early – Thursday 17th – and we’ll have even more Easter goodness for your calendar.

In the meantime, drive safely if you’re heading off for the long weekend. Watch out for caravans, road rage, and rogue chocolate eggs melted into the car seat. And if you're taking a dip — at the lagoon or up in beautiful Eungella — keep an eye on the little ones.

You’ve got this, parents. Sort of.

Amanda

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By Amanda Wright

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A long-held dream to give koalas a dedicated space to heal has officially become a reality, with the opening of the Fauna Rescue Whitsundays Koala and Wildlife Rehabilitation Facility near Mount Jukes.

The facility, located on the property of Alison and Chris Pighills, has been purpose-built to support the recovery of injured and orphaned wildlife across Central Queensland, with koalas now set to benefit from a safe and natural rehabilitation space.

The site will include a fully enclosed 40m x 40m bushland area planted with ironbark and Queensland blue gum trees to help koalas relearn how to climb, forage and grow strong before being released.

A treatment room, isolation area and outdoor enclosures have also been established, with Chris Pighills behind the construction of much of the infrastructure.

Mayor Greg Williamson was on hand for the official opening and praised the Pighills and the Fauna Rescue Whitsundays group for their vision and dedication.

“Isn’t this sensational for our region,” Cr Williamson said.

“Looking after our wildlife is part of a whole community.”

“Along with the Fauna Rescue Whitsundays group, Alison’s passion for protecting wildlife is inspirational. It takes a vision and a drive, we’re exceptionally proud of what you have built here.”

“Without the generosity of the community, everyone who has contributed to this wonderful facility for our wildlife, I think you should be very proud. This facility will do a lot of great work for our region, thanks to the wildlife rescue volunteers.”

The sanctuary will operate as a key recovery site for a large catchment area, with animals transported from as far south as Yeppoon, west to Clermont and north to Bowen.

“This facility will take in wildlife from a very large coverage area,” Cr Williamson said.

“With a 24-hour hotline, it takes a lot of passion and a lot of drive to make this work.”

The rehabilitation centre also strengthens local capacity to respond quickly to wildlife emergencies, with enclosures tailored to the specific needs of each species and a peaceful bush setting ideal for rehabilitation and recovery.

Alison, who serves as treasurer and koala coordinator for Fauna Rescue Whitsundays, has been caring for wildlife on her property for almost a decade.

From possums and wallabies to bats and koalas, her efforts have already seen hundreds of animals returned to the wild.

Now the sanctuary marks a new chapter—not just for Alison and Chris, but for every injured koala that will soon be climbing toward a second chance.

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Supporters, volunteers, and community leaders joined Alison Pighills to celebrate the opening of the Fauna Rescue Whitsundays Koala and Wildlife Rehabilitation Facility, including Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson, Yuibera Traditional Owner Philip Kemp, and members of local organisations who helped bring the project to life. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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Yuibera Traditional Owner Philip Kemp (right) and Mayor Greg Williamson helped mark the official opening of the Fauna Rescue Whitsundays Koala and Wildlife Rehabilitation Facility with a symbolic tree planting

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A 22-year-old Ooralea

man has tragically died

after crashing into a

light pole on Archibald Street,

Paget, last Monday, April 7.

At around 12:40pm, the driver

of a classic XY blue Ford Falcon

lost control of the vehicle and

struck a light pole. The driver,

who was the sole occupant,

was immediately transported to

Mackay Base Hospital. Despite

efforts to save him, the young

man succumbed to his injuries.

The Forensic Crash Unit is continuing

its investigations into

the cause of the crash.

Authorities are urging anyone

with information, or who may

have captured dashcam footage

of the incident, to come forward.

Police are asking the public to

assist in their investigation and

provide any relevant details that

could help determine the circumstances

surrounding this

tragic accident.

Investigations remain ongoing

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A partnership between two local organisations has resulted in countless happy faces among the remote villages of Papua New Guinea.

FMS Group, the major sponsor of Mackay skateboarding event Rumble on the Reef, travelled to PNG last week to hand-deliver skateboards, helmets and safety gear to Skate PNG – a small community group located in Taurama.

The delivery was part of the community engagement program within FMS Group, focused on giving back to the people who reside in mining regions. It was also thanks to a collaboration between The Rumble, FMS Group, TSG and Postal Skateboards to develop a world first Pacifika Cup, held at the 2024 Rumble on the Reef event in Mackay.

The winner of this competition was Josh O’Loughlin who represented PNG and donated his prize to the small skateboarding community – Skate PNG – who deliver development and coaching programs in Port Moresby.

FMS Group PNG Area Manager John Wilshere, who is also the former Captain of Rugby League Team PNG Hunters, said it was a privilege to support the PNG community in this way.

“Working in this country, it is important that we engage with and support the local community and this delivery of skateboarding equipment will have an immense impact on the children here who are learning to skate with limited resources,” Mr Wilshere said.

The Rumble Head of Partnerships Donny Fraser said it was a monumental moment for his team.

“This has put our entire crew on an emotional high,” he said.

“Thanks to FMS Group and their team for supporting the Mackay event for years, it has been a backbone of developing skateboarding in the Pacific, and it’s a privilege to work with them to be able to support PNG and developing skateboarding in our neighbouring countries.”

With operations across Australia and Papua New Guinea, FMS Group provides a wide range of services across all industries including mining, construction, marine and renewables. Their partnership with Rumble on the Reef began in 2023 and has produced remarkable opportunities for the Mackay skateboarding community.

Rumble on the Reef 2025 will be held at the Mackay Sugarbowl Skate Park on September 25 to 27.

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FMS Group PNG Area Manager and former PNG Hunters captain John Wilshere shares a special moment with young locals in Taurama, after delivering skateboards and safety gear to support the growing skateboarding community. Photos supplied

Rainee Shepperson, FMS Group Marketing and Communications Manager, shares a moment with a local child in Taurama

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Applications Closing Soon

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Mackay Community Foundation (MCF) is accepting applications for its 2025 Grant Program, offering not-for-profit organisations the opportunity to access a share of up to $207,000 in funding for impactful community projects. But hurry, applications close next week on 15th April.

MCF is seeking applications for one-off projects that aid, relieve, or support individuals in distress in Mackay and surrounding districts.

While most grants are expected to range between $15,000 and $20,000, larger-scale projects are also considered.

MCF Board Chair Frances Easton highlighted the significance of this funding opportunity.

"MCF is committed to strengthening our local region by supporting projects that make a meaningful difference,” Ms Easton said.

“To date, we have awarded a total of $1,764,830 in community grants, empowering organisations to provide essential services and programs for those in need.

“We encourage local not-for-profits to apply and take advantage of this opportunity to create lasting positive change."

Ms Easton also encouraged those organisations applying to be very thorough in their submission.

"We want to ensure that every grant is allocated where it will have the most impact. To do this, we need applicants to provide as much detail as possible about their organisation and project.

“The more comprehensive your application, the better we can assess its potential to support and sustain our region’s most needy."

Eligible projects must build social capital, capacity, and/or resilience within the Mackay community.

It must also deliver economic benefits to the community, support local suppliers and be completed by June 2026.

The 2023/2024 Grant Program saw a wide range of projects funded, including a social support group for new mums, an inclusive arts program, an increase in beach access for youth and adults with a disability, an education program for children with cancer and the Australian Street Aid Project Medical Clinic.

Interested organisations should visit www.mackaycommunityfoundation.com for an application form – applications close 5pm 15 April 2025.

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The 2024 Mackay Community Foundation grant recipients. Photo supplied

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MIDGE POINT residents are now enjoying a renewed and refreshed water supply following the completion of significant works to water infrastructure in the region.

The most recent and final stage of improvements involved extensive cleaning of watermains suppling the Midge Point township, which required a planned water outage over several days.

Mayor Greg Williamson said council truly appreciated the patience of the community during this most recent phase of the project.

“While we tried to lessen the impact of the water outage by supplying bottled drinking water and restoring water at night for cleaning purposes, we recognise that this still required a level of planning and preparation for residents,” Mayor Williamson said.

“We understand this was inconvenient and we thank everyone for their patience,” he said.

“All planned improvements to the network have been completed but, as always, our water network teams are on standby to address any issues should they be raised.

“We often take quality drinking water for granted, but this project has showed just how much goes into getting water from its natural source to our homes and workplaces, and ensuring it’s of top quality once it gets there.”

Midge Point Tavern owner Neil Brooks said he was relieved to see the improvement in water quality.

“We are a proud community out here, and having our water issues resolved means that we can now be confident of our township’s future and potential growth.,” Mr Brooks said.

“It’s been a journey and together with council we’re glad we’ve been able to find a long-term solution.”

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Photo caption: Midge Point Tavern publican Neil Brooks is pleased to see his business and township now has access to improved water quality. Photo supplied: Mackay Regional Council

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The much-anticipated Webberley-Paradise streets intersection upgrade is now expected to be completed in about three weeks.

This major project, being undertaken to improve traffic and pedestrian safety, has been delayed by the recent ongoing wet weather and contractor availability.

However, it is now planned to be complete and Webberley Street re-opened to traffic in early May. Temporary traffic arrangements, including in Paradise Street, will also return to normal.

Since construction resumed in January, council has completed all road surfacing works, constructed all traffic islands and started line marking work.

Due to wet weather and contractor availability, there are still works to be completed, including line marking, final landscaping and street lighting.

Until then, temporary traffic arrangements in the area remain in place.

Please slow down and take care when driving through this work area and obey all signage.

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Photo supplied: Mackay Regional Council

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Mackay Welcomes Laffo’s Cookies

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Mackay is set to indulge in a delightful new business venture that combines homemade cookies, locally roasted coffee, and a heartwarming story of friendship and collaboration. Laffo’s Cookies will officially open its doors at Caneland Central, outside Target, today (Friday 11 April), offering the community a perfect blend of sweet treats and exceptional coffee for both everyday enjoyment and unique gifting.

The brainchild of lifelong friends Mark (Laffo) Laffin and Christeen McKeever, Laffo’s Cookies is the culmination of a shared passion for food, baking, and community. Mark, who secured the lease for the purple van outside Target, invited Christine to bring her lifelong dream to life by sharing her incredible homemade, artisan cookies with Mackay.

Christeen, a retired nurse and lifelong baking enthusiast, has always dreamed of sharing her creations with the world. After running a small shop at The Leap a few years ago while juggling her nursing career, she is now fully embracing her passion for baking.

“I’ve always wanted to bake for others, and now, with Laffos’s Cookies, I can finally do that on a larger scale,” Christeen said.

To complement her cookies, Christeen sought out a local coffee partner who shared her values and passion for quality. She found the perfect match in Dan Shaw from Primal Coffee, a Mackay-based coffee roaster and barista trainer.

“Dan’s passion for coffee and his commitment to the Mackay community align perfectly with my vision for Laffo's Cookies,” Christeen added.

Together, they aim to create a unique experience that combines Christeen’s signature cookie recipes with Dan’s expertly roasted coffee.

The business also plans to introduce custom cookie gift boxes, which can be purchased online and delivered the same day through services like Menulog.

“We want to build a brand that people trust and love,” Christeen explained.

“Our cookie boxes will be the perfect solution for anyone looking for a unique gift or a way to brighten someone’s day.”

Mark and Christine are thrilled to bring Laffos Cookies to Mackay and are excited about the future.

“This is more than just a business—it’s a celebration of friendship, passion, and community,” Mark said.

“We can’t wait to share our love for food and baking with everyone in Mackay.”

Laffos’s Cookies invites the community to join them for their grand opening TODAY (Friday 11 April) at Caneland Central. Follow their journey on social media for updates, special offers, and more.

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L-R: Nicole Laffin, Mark Laffin, Christeen McKeever and Dan Shaw are all smiles ahead of Laffo’s Cookies' grand opening at Caneland Central – blending friendship, freshly baked cookies, and locally roasted coffee into one sweet new venture. Photos supplied

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As the Federal Election in May approaches, the Greater Whitsunday region is setting the stage for a brighter future by unveiling its comprehensive election priorities, guided by the theme "Greater Possibilities."

Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) Chief Executive Officer Ms Kylie Porter said this strategic vision aims to drive economic growth, enhance community well-being, and ensure sustainable development across the region.

“The entire Greater Whitsunday region makes an oversized contribution to the Australian economy, with a total economic output of $75B annually,” said Ms Porter.

“Our region has three key asks of investing in the basics, driving economic productivity and support local projects to underpin our communities.”

Ms Porter said the Greater Whitsunday region is calling for a fairer funding model for local governments. Currently, councils receive just 0.5 per cent of total taxation revenue. By increasing this to 1 per cent, local governments can continue to provide essential services that make our communities liveable.

“Additionally, significant investment in critical road networks and digital infrastructure is essential to prevent economic losses and improve productivity.”

Ms Porter said the region is poised to boost economic productivity through several key projects.

“The Great Barrier Reef Arena Stage 2 will enhance local sporting and major events facilities, supporting inclusivity and driving tourism. This investment is particularly timely as Harrup Park is the cricket venue for the Olympic and Paralympic Games Queensland 2032.

“Investment in the Whitsunday Marine Discovery Centre will also capitalise on the tourism opportunity coming from Olympic sailing in the Whitsundays.”

The marine centre will also create educational and tourism opportunities related to the Great Barrier Reef, further stimulating the local economy Ms Porter said.

“Supporting local projects is crucial for the region's growth and sustainability.

“The Northern Beaches Road Network Improvements project will address congestion and improve productivity by getting residents out of cars and into workplaces more efficiently.”

Ms Porter said the Isaac Royalties Road Package aims to ensure safe roads for the Isaac region, supporting the coal industry and the broader economy.

“We are calling on all candidates to clearly articulate their commitment to funding priorities and driving greater possibilities cross the entire Greater Whitsunday region in the next term of government.”

Greater Whitsunday Alliance is the region’s peak, independent economic development body committed to making the Mackay, Isaac, Whitsunday region strong for generations.

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