The Proserpine Entertainment Centre buzzed with excitement and pride as 57 new Australian citizens were welcomed in a heartwarming Citizenship Ceremony held on Tuesday 11 June.

The event marked a significant milestone for the conferees hailing from eight different countries, symbolising the rich diversity and multicultural spirit of the community.

Conferees from Canada, the United Kingdom, South Africa, the Philippines, New Zealand, Taiwan, France and China took the pledge of commitment to Australia, embracing their new identity with joy and gratitude.

The ceremony was attended by dignitaries, family members and friends who gathered to celebrate this momentous occasion.

The event featured inspiring speeches, cultural performances and the official swearing-in ceremony.

The Mayor of Whitsundays, Ry Collins, delivered a heartfelt address, emphasising the importance of unity, diversity and the shared values that bind the community together.

The Citizenship Ceremony included a rousing rendition of the Australian national anthem, followed by a reception where attendees mingled, shared stories and enjoyed refreshments.

For more photographs check out our website mackayandwhitsundaylife.com.

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Daniel Heggie and Lucy Seddon-Brown, Stories In Light Imagery.

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The Bowen River Rodeo saw 3000 people attend over the weekend and the entire event was a huge hit.

The rodeo had 200 competitors and the camp drafting had 220!

Friday night live music entertained rodeo lovers too.

There were lots of activities for the younger kids to enjoy, including the Flag Race, Bounce Pony, Barrell Race, Snakes & Ladders and more.

Bowen River Committee Secretary, Sally Fry said “The Bowen River is now 136 years old and I think that’s quite special.”

“Bowen River Rodeo associated with Buck Off Melanoma and proceeds from the raffle and Calcutta is split between Buck Off Melanoma and CQ Rescue Helicopter.

“Thank you to our wonderful sponsors, without them we wouldn’t be able to hold this wonderful event.

“And thank you to our hard-working committee and volunteers who work so hard over the weekend to make our event such a success.”

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Mayor Ry Collins and his family at the Bowen River Rodeo
The rodeo was a huge success over the weekend
Photos supplied

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Much-loved local Councillor Jan Clifford was awarded an Order of Australia (OAM) on Australia Day this year and last month she attended a special ceremony to collect her medal at Parliament House in Brisbane.

A Whitsunday Regional Councillor since 2008, Ms Clifford is now serving her 5th term and was uncontested at the recent Local Government Elections.

When asked what she believes were the reasons for her nomination and subsequent recognition, Ms Clifford said “you’ve got to go above and beyond”.

“I think it’s a lot to do with the things I do for rural women and all the community efforts I’ve put in over the years,” she shared.

It is well known that Ms Clifford volunteered graciously throughout the Cyclone Debbie recovery period and has been giving up her own Christmas Day to assist at community events for those in need.

Since 1995, Ms Clifford has been an advocate for the Whitsundays region, working within the tourism sector for many of those years.

She started attending Council meetings in 2000, becoming interested in the process and then going for election.

Flash forward to this year and Ms Clifford said it was an absolute honour to receive her OAM.

“It was absolutely awesome!” she said.

“It was like you’d been dreaming about something and all of a sudden it happened!”

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Councillor Jan Clifford received her OAM at Parliament House in Brisbane on May 16. Photo supplied

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Local businesswoman, Katelyn Aslett, was awarded Queensland Emerging Philanthropist of the Year at the Queensland Philanthropy Awards which were held in Brisbane last Friday night.

The founder of a charity organisation called My Giving Plate, Ms Aslett uses her skills in event management to facilitate dinner parties, both large and small, with all proceeds going towards worthwhile charities.

Over the past year, My Giving Plate has raised almost $180,000 and since its inception four years ago it has raised over $600,000.

The idea for the charity began when Ms Aslett felt a calling to help those effected by the floods in Townsville, a place she had previously resided and where she still had friends.

With a desperate desire to help raise money to help her friends, Ms Aslett held a dinner party where she accepted donations.

Its subsequent success inspired her to spread the concept far and wide by creating a platform that funnelled the money raised through a more streamlined system.

This is when she created the My Giving Plate platform which has now hosted more than 50 dinner parties.

The process is simple and can be adapted to dinner parties of any size, from a gathering of 10 friends to a large-scale event for hundreds of people.

The idea is that, by skipping the cost of venue hire and hospitality staff and holding an event in your own home or backyard, you can absorb the food costs as well and so much more money can be raised and then given to the charity of your choice.

Ms Aslett guides each person through the process and can help with any questions along the way.

An entrepreneur at heart, Ms Aslett had her own art and design label for over 20 years.

“If your business is going well, you’ve got the ability to give back,” she explained.

“It’s amazing to be amongst so many incredible people doing so much good, and I couldn’t do half of it if I didn’t have such an amazing team.”

“It was an honour to accept this award and I love that it has lifted the profile of what we’re doing so that more people will now want to get involved – we can make a lot more happen and I would love to raise half a million dollars a year, which I think is possible!”

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Katelyn Aslettt with her mother and husband at the Queensland Philanthropy Awards in Brisbane last Friday night. Photo supplied

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The Bowen Community Centre proudly celebrated National Volunteer Week by honouring 20 of its dedicated volunteers.
This special event highlighted the vital importance of volunteers to the centre and the broader community.
During the celebration, volunteers were recognised for their selfless service and the significant impact they have on the lives of those who need it most.
Their efforts help the Centre to expand its reach and enhance the quality of services provided, from support programs to community events and educational workshops.
"We are immensely grateful for the dedication and hard work of our volunteers," said Stephanie Cora the Executive Officer of the Bowen Community Centre.
"Their contributions are invaluable, and they truly embody the spirit of community and compassion.
“Without them, our mission to support and uplift the most vulnerable members of our community would not be possible."
The event was a heartfelt tribute to the volunteers who give their time, skills, and energy to make a difference.
It also served as a reminder of the power of volunteerism and the positive change it can bring to society.
Volunteers are the backbone of the Bowen Community Centre, and their contributions enable the centre to provide a wide range of free services to their most vulnerable members.
Without the volunteers unwavering commitment and generosity, the Bowen Community Centre would not be able to function or offer the support that so many in our community rely on.

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Volunteer Dee Jastremski and Executive Officer from the Bowen Community Centre Stephanie Cora
Photo supplied

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Welcome to this month’s Member Spotlight organised by Whitsunday Chamber Of Commerce And Industry.

This month’s article showcases our diverse businesses community.

AWB First Aid First owner-operators, Andrew and Wendy Barker, are passionate for first aid.

AWB First Aid First has been supplying the Whitsundays with professional first aid training, first aid kits and supplies, and volunteering first aid services at local events since October 2009.

They are motivated to train the community as a way of making our community safe.

In recent years they have seen the need for everyone to be capable of delivering lifesaving first aid – from workplaces, schools, community groups, public events, and even in our homes and families.

While a critical skill, they have seen their clients and the community struggle with taking the time to learn first aid.

They urge the community to ensure all our first aid skills are up-to-date.

As proud local business owners, their advice to other businesses is to:

   • Connect in with a business coach so you can stay focused on goals and what’s important.
   • Continually work at building a good, reliable network of other businesses and professionals around you.
   • Know your numbers and regularly review income, costs, and your financial position.

As Chamber members they enjoy seeing what is happening in the Whitsundays through the Chamber’s communications and events, getting support when needed, and meeting other local businesses through networking.

Visit their website to learn more about upcoming courses and services: https://www.awbfirstaid.com.au/

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AWB First Aid First owner-operators, Andrew and Wendy Barker. Photo supplied

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After six weeks of hard work, artist Glen Gillard is thrilled to have finished the latest of Bowen’s murals and is extremely happy with it.

“It is probably the longest that I have ever spent on a mural,” said Glen.

“I am glad to see the end of it, and I’m happy and think the results are pretty good.

“Everybody's saying how wonderful it is and magnificent, but most of the comments I get is that it’s beautiful and that's what I'm really happy about.”

Glen joked that his favourite part to paint was the end, adding his signature at the end.

Secretary of the Mural Society Heather Skinner, President Josie Tons and Treasurer Marcia Land are over the moon with it and describe it as “Fan-bloody-tastic!”

This mural is of Herbert Street and the Mural Society have plans to extend it, adding additional buildings from Herbert Street on the blank spaces next to the newly finished mural.

This mural would not be possible without Bowen Hire, supplying scaffolding and the Mural Society express a huge thank you to them.

Glen would also like to add that he loves green tree frogs, and he likes to add them into his murals – see if you can spot one!

“This mural here has three Green Tree Frogs which people have to find before they go home,” Glen laughed.

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Glen Gillard in front of his finished mural
Treasurer Marcia Land, Secretary Heather Skinner, President Josie Tons and Artist Glen Gillard

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Queensland’s new favourite game has taken the state by storm as a part of the launch of Tourism and Events Queensland’s biggest campaign in over a decade.

On the second of June, Queensland officially set the record for the Worlds’ Biggest Game of Keepy Uppy, with games happening concurrently across the whole state.  
  
The Whitsundays played along with a game on Whitehaven Beach, on a boat around Heart Reef and on Hamilton and Hayman Island to feature in a campaign centered around the hit animated TV series, Bluey.

Now live in five countries, the campaign introduces Queensland ‘Bluey’s World, for real life’ to inspire international and domestic travelers to experience our incredible state.  
  
Supported by a huge media buy, including a TV commercial fronted by Robert Irwin, the campaign is expected to reach tens of millions across Australia, New Zealand, United States, United Kingdom, Japan and Singapore.

If you are travelling outside of Queensland, keep your eyes peeled for Bluey! 
 

Contributed by Laura Knipe, Marketing Manager, Tourism Whitsundays  

Photo supplied

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Our local libraries in the Whitsunday Region offer much more than just books! Hosting over 200 free events annually, they provide a variety of tech and literacy programs suitable for all ages. They will also be running a range of children's activities during the upcoming school holidays. Be sure to visit libraries.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au to discover what's happening at your local library and make the most of these fantastic resources and events!

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As the 2024 Whitsunday Show approaches, it is interesting to consider what the annual show was like a century ago in the 1920s.
It is fascinating to read the publication, “Show Whitsunday Celebrating 100 Years” published on the occasion of the show’s centenary. Covering ten decades of annual shows in our district, it provides an absorbing insight into what has changed and what remains the same.  
In the 1920 -1929 segment, the writer noted that the Proserpine A P & I Association Show was “moving into its second successful decade of community support”. This is one factor that has certainly stayed the same. Such support remains integral in contributing to the success of shows and we are indebted to community of volunteers who work tirelessly behind the scenes to provide the venue that is the Show.
So, let’s turn back the clock to the 1920s to see what else has remained the same and what has changed …  
An excerpt from the “Proserpine Guardian” (August 27 1921) tells the story …
“Show dances were becoming increasingly popular, many held at the Tivoli Hall during Carnival Week.
There was a large number of visitors for the carnival during the weekend and the excursion train from Bowen on the last day of the show carried a very large number of passengers and there must have been a record number of visitors in attendance which no doubt was due to the local association having their annual event include the northern circuit and thus everyone was afforded the opportunity of witnessing the local fixtures without any fear of counter attractions elsewhere.
The side shows too were numerous and with a few exceptions they were the “cheap jack” class. On the ground Mr R C Traill who is R.V. Mackay’s local agent had a number of farm implements and keen interest was displayed by the farmers in the various implements exhibited.
The sugar cane display showed some nice cane and the exhibits from Banana Pocket were of a very high class. The quality of the cane displayed was a splendid advertisement for Banana Pocket and goes to prove that the land at that place is most suitable for the cultivation of sugar cane.  
There were also some splendid potatoes, maize and cigar leaf that came from the pocket which is further proof that the land is one of the very best. …
The Grand Parade on the last day of the show was well worth witnessing. Some fine exhibits were to be seen, some of which carried prize ribbons from other shows. A notable feature was the large number of cattle that took part in the parade and this was the first occasion that such a large number of animals were led round the ring which made the parade all the more attractive.
The competition in the ring events was keen and, in the majority of classes, there were a good number of exhibitors. The younger generation who took part in the riding events caught Mr P Salmon’s eye (a champion rider from Natal Downs) and he remarked that the riding of the youths from Proserpine was equal to if not better than he had seen anywhere in the north. These remarks are very complimentary more especially when they come from a gentleman who attends practically the whole of the shows in North Queensland.”
In 2024, the 111th Show is certain to deliver something for everyone just as it did a century ago. So, mark the dates in your calendar. Your support is important if the show is to go on …
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Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum

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A Year 12 Proserpine State High School student has been named as a top three finalist for the Queensland School-Based Apprentice/Trainee of the Year Awards and will find out if he’s won during a special ceremony held in Townsville in July.

Rio Withyman is currently undertaking his Certificate III in Maritime Operations with local tourism operator Sealink and is being recognised for his commitment to his formal studies at school and in the workplace.

Growing up onboard a sailing catamaran for three years with his family sailing the Queensland Coast, Rio set his sights firmly on pursuing a career in the Maritime Industry.

“The experience I am gaining through my traineeship and hands-on work on large vessels is equipping me with the skills and knowledge to pursue my dream job,” he shared.

“My goal is to undertake my practical assessment of skills towards the end of this year. This will see me completing my Master 24 training and qualification in under two years, while the usual timeline for a school-based trainee is four years.”

Rio works on Sealink’sHayman Island boats every Friday as part of his traineeship and he also works for Red Cat Adventures on the weekends.

He is focusing on finishing year 12 and completing his traineeship that will see him a fully qualified Vessel Master (Captain), able to skipper commercial vessels up to 24m.  

After graduation he is looking forward to work with Paspaley Pearls on their pearling vessels out of Broome for the pearling season.

In his spare time, he is either out on the water free diving or fishing, or playing AFL with the local Whitsunday Sea Eagles U17 team.

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Rio Withyman has been named as a top three finalist for the Queensland School-Based Apprentice/Trainee of the Year Awards. Photo supplied

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The Proserpine Historical Museum have been honoured to accept the donation of a significant artefact; a handmade pair of shorts worn by William Dalziel Rudd from 1942 – 1945.

William Rudd wore these shorts during his years as a prisoner of war (POW).

William preserved the shorts throughout his life and his family has now donated them to the museum.

William Rudd was born at Hughenden 14th April 1914 but later lived in Proserpine and at the age of 26 enlisted in the Australian Army.

Shortly after Singapore fell to the Japanese on 14th February 1942, William became a POW until 5th September 1945.

He served as a slave in brutal conditions on the Thai-Burma railway and the Changi POW camp.

The brutality of the Japanese is well documented, 15,000 Australians were POWs and there were 7000 deaths.

Researcher at Proserpine Historical Museum Ailsa Reinke said some of Williams’ relatives still live in the region and are happy the shorts are at the Proserpine Museum.

“They finally arrived here and we're very privileged to have them and the family are happy to have them here as well,” said Ailsa.

“We just think it's a real privilege to have them because there's such few things that survived all that time.

“It might have been the only shorts he had because, they wouldn't have been issued with clothing.”

In addition to the shorts, Proserpine Historical Museum have included post cards from William to his family back at home.

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William Rudd’s Shorts,
William Rudd

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Bowen Summergarden Cinema often hosts charity screening events and everybody is welcome, the films are usually true stories and suitable for all ages.

Their next charity screening is of ‘Unsung Hero’, hosted by the Bowen and Collinsville local Chaplaincy Committee charity.

Bowen Summergarden Cinema owner Ben De Luca is looking forward to this showing.

“It’s based on a remarkable true story, a mum's faith stands against all odds and inspires her husband and children to hold onto this,” said Ben.

The charity screening costs $15 and food and drinks are supplied by the Chaplaincy Committee, additional food and drinks can be purchased from the cinema.

“They usually have nibblies, sometimes depending on the size of the charity they put on some fairly lavish plates of food and that sort of stuff,” said Ben.

Tables are set up in the foyer for the food and drinks, raffle tickets are also available.

The charity screening is always previewed in the biggest theatre and there are additional tables set up in the theatre with more refreshments.

Ben has owned Bowen Summergarden Cinema for 62 years and he still works as the cinema’s projectionist.

He loves his work and said that, 62 years on, it is still a bucket of fun.

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What: Charity screening of ‘Unsung Hero’
Where: Bowen Summergarden Cinema
When: Monday 17 June, 6.30pm
Tickets: $15

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Ben De Luca, the owner of Bowen Summergarden Cinemas for the past 62 years. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Young people of Bowen are invited to come to PCYC Bowen Drop-In sessions where they can meet other people their age, connect with worthwhile community events and enjoy sport and activities. 
 
On Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, young people in the Bowen area aged 12-18 can join the PCYC Drop-In sessions. 
 
Every day has a different activity, with Tuesdays from 3pm – 5pm an opportunity for attendees to go to Queens Beach for pizza and fun. 
 
On Wednesdays the PCYC Bowen Youth Leadership Team meet to discuss upcoming events and activities they are planning in the local community.  
 
Thursdays, 5pm – 7pm, the group head down to Bowen’s Skate Rink where PCYC offer a Basketball After Dark activity.  
 
Acting Sergeant Ann Davies co-ordinates, the Drop-In sessions and said it’s important the children can see the police as not just law enforcement. 
 
“It gives a chance for them to get to know police and not be scared of us but actually know that we are real people,” said Ann. 
 
“Drop-In sessions give our local young people a fun, safe activity to participate in as an alternative to potentially anti-social behaviours." 
 
“Coming to PCYC Bowen is a positive choice our young people can make to engage in their local community in a really worthwhile way.” 
 
Community Development Officer, Josh Peters runs the Basketball session, offering pointers to help players improve their game.   
 
Young people from the PCYC Bowen Drop-In group and Youth Leadership Team also attend Friday evening’s Skate Night. 
 
The Skate Nights are an extremely popular Friday night activity in Bowen, around 200 people attend and it’s a great activity and fun way to start the weekend.  

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Bowen PCYC Drop In Basketball, Photo supplied

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At Whitsunday Christian College their vision is to see students develop as life-long learners of faith, character and purpose, achieving personal excellence and cultivating community through service. 

They seek to educate the whole person, with a focus on the head, the hands and the heart.

They encourage student to have strong minds, develop practical skills and cultivate character, instilling Christian values.

Mrs Kylie Langshore the College Principal believes, “Middle School is an important phase of learning and development for our young people from Years 7 - 10.”

“It is a time when they discover more about who they are, what they enjoy and what they are good at.”

In Years 7 and 8, students study core subjects and explore a range of additional subjects.

In Year 9, while continuing study in core subjects, students select electives to explore. In doing so, they commence their learning pathway which will ultimately lead into Senior Secondary and beyond.

For families desiring a values-based Christian education in a community that fosters character growth, academic excellence and a supportive environment for Secondary education, Whitsunday Christian College invites you to the Year 7 Twilight Tour.

The Year 7 Twilight Tour which will be held on Wednesday 24th July from 5pm – 7pm. This is an opportunity for parents and children to experience Secondary School and gain an insight into the different learning structures and subjects on offer.

School tours will be held in small groups and operate from 5pm – 6.30pm.

Students will engage in subject specific experiences relevant to Secondary School life.

Come along and meet the Leadership Team, Secondary teachers and students and share in a free sausage sizzle.  

To conclude, at 6.30pm, an information session will be held in the Hall for all families to discuss important aspects of Year 7 in 2025.

All enrolled students for 2025, are then invited to the Year 7 Step Up day which is due to take place in October.

Students will experience and follow a Secondary timetable to prepare them for transition from Primary to Secondary school, moving through a range of different specialist subjects while meeting staff and students.

This is an important day in preparing students for the change and opportunities of their next educational phase, helping them build confidence and familiarity with the new environment.  

Whitsunday Christian College invites you to explore Secondary school opportunities.

To register your interest, please contact Administration by calling 4948 5100 or email mail@whitsunday.qld.edu.au . There are limited spaces remaining in Year 7 for 2025.

WHAT: Year 6 into Year 7 Twilight Tour
WHEN: Wednesday 24 July, 5pm – 7pm

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Photos supplied 

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