Northern Queensland Legacy have once again hosted a series of heartwarming Christmas Lunches across several shires to bring the community together and ensure veterans’ families are supported this festive season.

Annually, the Christmas Lunches provide a chance for widows and children of veterans to reconnect and celebrate the festive season with others who understand their unique circumstances.

The Northern Queensland Legacy's Bowen Christmas Party was held on Friday, the 28th of November at the Grandview Hotel where invited guests gathered together to share in a wonderful lunch and celebrate the silly season.

David Burke, President of Northern Queensland Legacy sees the events as a rare opportunity to ensure that for those living in small towns or remote communities, distance doesn’t mean disconnection.

“These Christmas lunches are much more than just a festive celebration. They are a vital lifeline for those who might otherwise feel isolated,” said David.

“It’s in these moments of shared joy that we remind each other that we’re not alone, and that the Legacy community stands together, not just during the holidays, but every day of the year."

Northern Queensland Legacy CEO, Nicole Hayes, believes the events are an essential part of Legacy’s tailored approach to addressing the challenges veterans’ widowers and children in small, remote communities face, especially when it comes to social isolation and access to services.

“For many, especially those facing social isolation, these events are a lifeline, offering not just a social gathering but a reminder that they are part of a supportive network,” Nicole explained.

“The sense of belonging and connection that these events foster helps reduce feelings of loneliness and builds a stronger sense of community. For those who might be living alone or distanced from family, these gatherings are a welcome opportunity to bond with others, share experiences, and feel supported in a fun, festive environment.”

Northern Queensland Legacy provides a range of support services, including social activities, financial assistance, home visits, and advocacy, all aimed at connecting individuals with vital resources.

“We strive to undertake regular contact including home visits and phone calls to check on people’s wellbeing to make sure that no one feels forgotten,” added Nicole.

“We provide a listening ear and practical supports including links with services and agencies. We try to create opportunities for connection to bridge the gap that isolation can create and we aim to ensure that veterans' families are supported no matter where they live.”

Northern Queensland Legacy has expanded its eligibility criteria to now include the dependants of veterans who did not serve operationally or deploy overseas, opening the door for more families to access support. If your spouse served in the Australian Defence Force and you would like to check your eligibility, contact the Northern Queensland Legacy office on 4772 7533 or email admin@nqlegacy.com.au after the 26th of January 2026.

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By Merewyn Wright

This weeks photo is of the reflection in Airlie Creek of the Airlie Beach Ferris wheel, with the ripples in the creek making an interesting reflection.

These photographs are submitted by the Whitsundays Amateur Photographers group

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Well-known comedian, Bob Hope, once said - "When we recall Christmases past, we usually find that the simplest things - not the great occasions - give off the greatest glow of happiness."

The festive season in Proserpine in 1908, was both a simple and happy time for residents of the district. The merriment began with a street fair on Christmas Eve and was rounded off with picnics and a dance on Boxing Day. The celebrations were joyous occasions. The following newspaper extract from “Port Denison Times” and “Bowen Advocate” Tuesday 5 January 1909 provides a wonderful insight into the Christmas traditions early last century.

“Fine but extremely oppressive weather prevailed in the Proserpine district during the festive season. On Christmas eve a fair number of country people came into town, many of whom did not return to their homes until late in the evening; The principal streets presented a very animated scene at night. The majority of the business places were decorated with greenery, and in one or two instances the brightness of the streets was added to by a number of vari-coloured Chinese lanterns. The juveniles were, as was to be expected, in the " seventh heaven of delight.” The noise they made with squeaking " blow-outs,” &c., and the firing of crackers served to remind grownups of the happy days of childhood. The adult portion of the crowd were in a jovial mood, and the season’s greetings were exchanged in the good, old, time-honoured way. Though the temperature provoked a thirst, very few men over-indulged; consequently, the police had not an arduous duty to perform. Compared with previous years, the trade done by the storekeepers was not brisk - due to the fact, no doubt, that large numbers of people proceeded South some days previously to spend their holidays.

On Christmas Day, several parties were astir early, and lost no time in journeying to Pioneer Bay, the O’Connell River, and other delightful picnic resorts. At St Paul’s (Anglican) Church, the usual Christmas services were held. There was a large congregation at the morning service which was conducted by Mr A. P. Jennings. The church was decorated with greenery, flowers, plains, ferns, &c., the effect being very pleasing indeed. The choral portion of the service was commemorative of the birth of Christ, and the choir sang the hymns of rejoicing with reverential feeling. The anthem, " I will lift up mine eyes,” was splendidly rendered, Miss B. P. Waite singing the solo with capital effect. Mr F. E. Leggett presided at the organ. Mr Jennings, who preached both morning and evening, chose subjects appropriate to the occasion.

The principal attraction for Boxing Day was the hospital benefit race meeting … Several picnic parties made a jaunt to Pioneer Bay, where they spent a very enjoyable day. At night an open-air concert was held, followed by a dance in Mr Compion’s newly erected house. During the day there were fully 120 persons on the beach.”

More than 100 years later, many traditions continue - even if they do now have a modern slant. There is still that last minute Christmas shopping; we have our street fairs and picnic parties; the community comes together for the singing of Christmas carols by candlelight in our parks and on the Airlie foreshore, and, at times, firecrackers can be heard at night, despite not being permitted!

Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum. Information also sourced from “Proserpine Guardian” January 5, 1909

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Wall calendars depicting beautiful photos of Bowen are now available at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre next to the Big Mango.

These have been produced by Bowen Tourism and Business and feature photos by Mark Fitz and Jack Collins.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said the Bowen calendars were always very popular and would make the perfect Christmas gift.

“A lot of visitors buy these calendars each year and love the photos of Bowen’s beaches and other landmarks.

“A lot of local residents buy them for their own homes or to post to family and friends in other parts of Australia and the world.

“This is the fourth year we have produced the calendar, and they have become increasingly popular,” she said.

They are also available at other businesses in Bowen, including several caravan parks and resorts.

The 2026 calendars include photos of beaches as well as the Big Mango, a mango farm and the Bowen lighthouse.

“Bowen has such beautiful scenery, and we love producing these calendars each year to showcase what is on offer.”

Contributed with thanks to Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy

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Bowen Tourism and Business team member, Melissa Beuzeville with the 2026 Bowen calendar. Photo supplied

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The Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN) is inviting the community to a free BBQ at the Bowen Foreshore, next to the Jetty on Santa Barbara Parade. The event will run between 4:30pm and 6:30pm on Friday 19th December and it is open to everyone.

This gathering provides an opportunity for locals to come together, enjoy a meal, and support mental health awareness in the region.

All members of the public are welcome to attend.

WSPN have provided the Whitsunday community with a free Tradie BBQ breakfast since the beginning of this year and the popularity has grown immensely.

The Tradie BBQ has gone from a small handful to over 70 people, to enjoy conversation, connection and asking the important question "What's Up Mate?"

Held in the carpark outside Shirtfront Solutions and Enzed it's a popular and central location for many.

The Bowen Community Christmas BBQ is also in a central, easily accesible location for the Bowen Community.

WHAT: Bowen Community BBQ
WHEN: 4:30 to 6:30pm, Friday 19th December
WHERE: Foreshore - Santa Barbara Parade - Front Beach - Next to Jetty

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Narlyn is a beautiful rescue dog who has found safety in foster care and is now learning what it means to be loved. Affectionate and gentle, she’s waiting for the right family to discover just how special she is.

About Narlyn:

• Sweet-natured and friendly with people
• Dog-friendly and enjoys the company of other dogs
• Affectionate and loves being close to her humans
• Medium energy – enjoys walks and playtime
• Thriving in foster care with routine and care

Narlyn has proven just how resilient and loving she can be. With her gentle personality, she will make a loyal and caring companion for the right family.

To meet Narlyn and see if she’s the perfect addition to your home, email bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com.

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Every skin has a story, and The Beauty Room Airlie Beach takes the time to understand it. Blending clinical expertise with a serene, welcoming environment, the focus is on delivering real results for every skin type.

“The Beauty Room has been part of the Airlie Beach community for almost 14 years, and being the longest-running beauty salon here is something we’re incredibly proud of.” Current owner Charlotte purchased the business several years ago and has continued to evolve the brand, "the focus for us has really been on growing with our clients and listening to what they have been asking for."

That client demand led to the launch of The Beauty Room Skin Clinic, a dedicated space focused on advanced skin treatments. “Opening The Beauty Room Skin Clinic was a natural next step, we wanted a dedicated space that could focus purely on advanced skin treatments.” she added.

The clinic has recently introduced a suite of new services using advanced IPL and RF technology. “IPL hair removal is something our clients had been asking for years, so finally being able to offer it has been really exciting.” The custom-built device allows multiple treatments in one platform. “Using one advanced machine, we’re able to effectively treat hair removal, skin tightening, pigmentation, vascular concerns, acne, and photo rejuvenation," Charlotted explained.

RF skin tightening has become a standout treatment, "delivering visible results after just one session," Charlotte said.

Extensive training underpins the clinic’s high standards. “We spent months working behind the scenes, training staff, refining protocols and making sure everyone was trained to the highest standard.”

“Ongoing education is really important to us; we have industry representatives coming up every few months to keep our team up-skilled.”

The clinic also ensures that “Every treatment is personalised." Thorough consultations and advanced skin analysis ensure tailored care. The Beauty Room's "advanced skin analysis lets us look beneath the surface, not just what you can see in the mirror.”

With a strong commitment to community and sustainability through the use of reusable products where possible, The Beauty Room continues to set a high standard for professional skin care in the Whitsundays.

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By Sharon Ashman

Family gatherings can bring warmth, laughter and stress. The holiday period often stirs up old dynamics, differing expectations, and emotional triggers, particularly for families managing mental health challenges. Be aware that alcohol can intensify emotional moments so be mindful of your intake. Adding ice to wine makes it go further for longer.  Swapping out light beer for full-strength beer reduces your alcohol intake.

Maintaining open communication and healthy boundaries is key. It’s okay to say no, take breaks, or step outside for fresh air if emotions run high. Encouraging empathy and understanding within the family can reduce tension and foster genuine connection.

Creating a balanced schedule with time for rest as well as togetherness can supports everyone’s wellbeing. Small gestures, like checking in on how each person is feeling or planning low-stress activities, can go a long way.

If conflict or distress arises, remember it’s normal and temporary. Focusing on shared values rather than past disagreements can help shift the mood. Ultimately, holidays are an opportunity to practise compassion, patience, and acceptance for others and for ourselves.

Turn your life into living by being your own best friend and enjoy your break.

“If you’d like more support, visit my website  https://www.personaltransitions.com.au/ or give me a call 0418708214.”

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Scientists have long understood that thriving fish communities are essential for healthy coral reefs. Now, new research has revealed just how important fish are in protecting the Great Barrier Reef from one of its most destructive natural threats: the crown-of-thorns starfish.

A major study by Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO, and the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) has found that one of the nation’s largest-ever marine conservation efforts has significantly reduced the likelihood of crown-of-thorns starfish (COTS) outbreaks across the Reef.

A Natural Predator with Plague Potential

Crown-of-thorns starfish are native to the Great Barrier Reef and form part of its natural ecosystem. But under certain conditions, their numbers can explode into plague proportions. When that happens, they become one of the leading causes of coral loss, devouring living coral tissues at a rate that reefs cannot keep up with.

For decades, scientists have debated what drives these outbreaks. While many questions remain, evidence is mounting that human activities over the past 40 years have made outbreaks more frequent or more severe.

Two leading causes stand out:

·         Nutrient runoff from land, which boosts phytoplankton levels in the Reef’s lagoon. This provides extra food for larval COTS, improving their survival and resulting in more starfish reaching adulthood.

·         Overfishing of key predators, such as fish and invertebrates that eat juvenile starfish. Fewer predators mean young COTS have a much greater chance of surviving and growing into adults.

Fewer Predators, More Starfish

Predatory fish like emperors and groupers are known to feed on crown-of-thorns starfish, playing an important role in controlling their numbers. Recognising this, reef managers acted early. In 2004, major protective measures were introduced to rebuild predatory fish populations. These included increasing no-take zones to 33 per cent of the Reef and tightening fishing regulations.

The new study shows just how critical those decisions were. Without them, grouper and emperor numbers would have continued to decline under fishing pressure, creating ideal conditions for increasingly frequent — and potentially continuous — starfish outbreaks.

Instead, the protections helped stabilise and rebuild predator populations, restoring an important natural check on COTS.

Avoiding a Tipping Point

Researchers believe these conservation efforts may have prevented a catastrophic ecological tipping point. Without enough large predatory fish, the Reef could have entered a cycle of ongoing COTS outbreaks, leaving far less living coral and undermining the resilience of the entire ecosystem.

Long-term monitoring now confirms the benefits: crown-of-thorns outbreaks occur far less often in protected zones where fish populations are healthier.

Science + Management = Results

The findings offer powerful evidence that reef protections are working. They also highlight the importance of long-term monitoring programs, which provide the data needed to understand how the Reef is changing and what actions are making a difference.

For this, we can thank the ongoing work of CSIRO and AIMS scientists — decades of research that continue to guide reef management today.

The Next Big Challenge

Protecting fish populations is only part of the solution. To fully safeguard the Great Barrier Reef, we must also improve water quality by reducing nutrient runoff from the land. Cleaner water means fewer phytoplankton blooms — and fewer opportunities for crown-of-thorns starfish to thrive.

Healthy fish, healthy water, healthy coral: all three are needed to give the Reef the best chance of survival in a changing world.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Conservation Council.

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Hello everyone,

I hope you have all got your christmas shopping ready and are excited for the christmas period!

In this week's Ruth2Reef, we explore why a healthy fish population is essential for a thriving reef and reveal the answer to the question: where do whales go after leaving the Whitsundays?

As always, happy reading, and I would also like to send my thoughts to everyone affected by the events in Bondi over the weekend.

Ruth

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Spouts of water shooting up in the distance, big water slaps and dramatic breaches, are a common sight when travelling through the clear whitsunday waters during Winter. Whales grace the whitsundays every year, but after the season ends, where do these elegant mammals go?

While whales are not known for their speed due to their large rotund body's and huge bobbly pectoral fins, their distance is impressive, with them travelling a 10,000 km roundtrip from cold and frigid Antarctic feeding grounds to the warm, welcoming whitsunday waters for breeding and calving.

Their journey after the Whitsundays, however, is not an easy one, with struggles involving depleting energy reserves, threats from human activities like ship strikes and fishing gear, alongside protecting their calves from predators such as Orca's and sharks.

Sadly, these aren't the only issues the whales have to avoid, as the growing impacts of climate change are affecting their food source, krill. Whales do not feed during their time in the Whitsundays, so they rely on stored fat for the three to four month period that they are completing their journey, therefore, with changes to their food web, alongside the dangers from human shipping and nets they risk starvation.

Why do whales risk travelling so far? The Great Barrier Reef foundation states that. "As winter approaches in the Southern Hemisphere, the Antarctic krill population diminishes due to sunlight reduction and sea ice formation."

"Whales are highly attuned to environmental cues. This seasonal change and decline in food availability prompts whales to instinctively embark on their journey north," the foundation added.

Having experienced many whale encounters in the Whitsundays it is very upsetting to find out that some of the whales won't make the journey after visiting here. To reduce your impact on our marine friends try to avoid single-use plastics where possible and volunteer or donate to an organisation focusing on protecting our marine life, such as Whales of Whitsundays.

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Humpback whales, I was lucky enough to swim with in WA. Photo credit: Laura Gourgas.

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This year has flown by! December is here, Christmas is just around the corner, and we’ve been lucky enough to tell Santa that all our bowlers have been good. The standard of bowls at our club has steadily improved throughout the year.

Tuesday afternoon’s Social Bowls saw Tony “Take the Money” Whitehorn, with his wonderful wife Betty, our club’s Bowler of the Year for 2025, take home the prize with an outstanding victory.

Wednesday afternoon Social Bowls featured 16 bowlers competing for first prize. Stand-in skipper Mark Mawson led his team to a fantastic 15-point win, with an outstanding performance from lead Rick Brunell and second, new bowler Rene, who was faultless in a great team effort. Well done, boys!

Wednesday night hosted the final of Business House Bowls, a fantastic night of competition. The winning team was CES Electrical. Second place went to Blue Science, and third place to Rock Plumbing. Business House Bowls will resume on Wednesday, 28th January, and all are welcome.

Saturday morning saw the last games of Scroungers for the year, resuming in January. First-round winners were Margo Stanley, Dennis Donadelli, Greg Fennell, and new bowler Alma Rose Mawson, who has amazed everyone with her controlled performances in such a short time. Margo Stanley won the A Division, while Tony Whitehorn won the B Division.

Sunday afternoon Social Bowls saw 20 bowlers competing for the prize. The winning team was led by skipper Andy McDougall, with lead Sandra Argo and second Mark Mawson.

Details of the presentation will be published next week.

Contributed with thanks to Airlie Beach Bowls Club

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Winners of Corporate Bowls from left to right - Gary Rusell , Des Ballance, Eric Barnard, Maureen Barnard, Sue Dakin, Cathy Russell. Photo supplied

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By Hannah McNamara

Last Friday, a quiet laneway in Mackay transformed into a vivid display of colour, emotion, and life as Artspace Mackay revealed local photographer Marty Strecker’s newest collection. The Flow and Form of Energy invites viewers to step into a world where movement, light, and unseen forces are captured in striking portraits that pulse with feeling.

Among the collection, Marty says each image carries its own quiet power, inviting viewers to pause and reflect. From portraits that shimmer with unseen energy to landscapes infused with emotion, the artworks speak of connection, resilience, and the fleeting beauty of life, offering glimpses of stories that unfold slowly, drawing the audience into a world of feeling and interpretation.

Marty’s intimate artwork, combined with the laneway’s unexpected setting, creates an experience that encourages exploration, reflection, and discovery.

Through The Lens
Mackay Laneway Transforms Into A Canvas Of Life And Creativity

They say a picture tells a thousand words, and local photographer Marty Strecker proves it to be true.

Last Friday, Mackay’s Gregory Street laneway came alive with colour and creativity as Artspace Mackay unveiled Marty’s striking new collection of portraits at the Second Lane Blueprint Gallery.

The exhibition invites the community to experience the unseen energy that flows through life, captured beautifully through his lens.

Titled The Flow and Form of Energy, the collection has been described as “a profound meditation on aging, impermanence, and the cyclical nature of life.”

Marty described his work as capturing the energy that surrounds us.

“I think it's unwise to think that we're independent from nature, all the energy that circulates us. Each one of these images has a different story of how that energy may manifest,” he explained.

“It's particularly relevant to the people in the image.”

While the exhibition features multiple compelling works, one image holds a special place in Marty’s heart.

He captured a mother and daughter duo who had been growing their hair long to donate to a local cancer foundation. Marty blended the portrait of the young girl with a sunset landscape to reflect her energy and spirit.

“It was intentional… it was like it was flowing out of her, you could say, with the sunset… It all just depends on how you interpret it.”

The young girl attended the exhibition on the morning of the launch, adding a meaningful touch.

Marty explained that the collection came together over about a month.

“I've just had images for a while, sometimes I made new images straight after that. They're all my own images; no AI in that. I just found the feeling and blended them with what I thought worked for that person.”

Reflecting on the exhibition’s setting, Marty noted, “This isn’t really a conventional art gallery… it’s a little bit out of the way. That could be part of the appeal. You’ve gotta look for it, you gotta find it. I’m hoping people do that.”

He also highlighted the supportive local art community.

“Leanne is one of the other artists, a local watercolourist… there’s lots of people in town doing fabulous stuff, and I’m just lucky to be here at the moment to do this.”

For aspiring creatives, Marty advice is to “Just keep doing it.”

“There’s no perfection. There’s no wrong. It’s just how you feel. If it means something to you, that’s the most important part.”

Artspace Mackay Director Tracey Heathwood described Marty’s series as a meditation on impermanence, beauty, and resilience.

“Marty’s photographic series is a profound meditation on aging, impermanence and the cyclical nature of life,” Ms Heathwood said.

“His portraits challenge society’s binary perception of beauty and decay, offering instead an inclusive vision – one that honours every stage of life as meaningful and beautiful,” she added.

“Through works such as Hair Today (2024), Marty invites viewers into a dialogue about resilience, identity and the quiet elegance found in nature’s rhythms.”

The exhibition is part of Artspace Mackay’s Blueprint Galleries program, which gives emerging artists a public platform to showcase their work.

Mackay Regional Council’s Arts, Culture and Heritage Advisory Committee Co-chair Cr Namarca Corowa said, “By showcasing work in highly visible, outdoor locations, Blueprint helps artists build confidence, connect with audiences and transform early ideas into fully realised creative expressions.”

Mackay Regional Councillor Belinda Hassan attended on the morning and praised the program for its positive effects.

“This is another part of Council’s Blueprint series, giving local artists a very public platform to display their amazing work. Marty Strecker’s talent really highlights what we have in our community. Our City and Waterfront team have worked hard to activate our laneways as part of Council’s place strategy.

“It’s about encouraging people to look around and discover these beautiful public artworks. We want people to get out, explore the city, and enjoy the artworks while walking around our laneways.”

Marty Strecker’s exhibition opened on December 5, offering the Mackay community the chance to witness stories that are both personal and universally moving.

For more information on the Blueprint Galleries visit www.artspacemackay.com.au

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As part of Mackay Regional Council’s Blueprint Galleries program, a quiet laneway came alive last Friday as local photographer Marty Strecker unveiled The Flow and Form of Energy, a series of emotive portraits capturing the unseen forces, stories, and resilience that flow through everyday life. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Hi lovely readers!

As I write this, I’m in Airlie Beach, typing away in the Whitsunday Life office.

It’s great to change up the scenery every now and then, and it’s always fun to catch up with work mates you normally don’t get to see.

Last week I celebrated my dad’s 45th birthday! So I’d like to say a public belated Happy Birthday to my dad, who also delivers this very paper you’re holding in your hands.

A few weeks ago, I wrote about the veggie garden I’m growing, and not long after that my dad built me a wooden garden bed to place them in – which is something I’m so grateful for.

The plants are thriving by the way! I reckon I’ll see a tomato very soon!

Last Saturday afternoon I attended the Carols in the Gardens, hosted by our fabulous local radio stations 4km and Star 101.9. It was amazing to see so many hues of red and green – we’re really starting to get into the Christmas spirit now!

Only a couple of weeks left until we all take a well-deserved break, and what a privilege it is to spend the holiday season with the loved ones around you.

This season, I’d like to remind you, that it’s not about the gifts or the even the giving, but about the time we are given to spend with the people who matter most.

So this year, please remember the reason for the season and love your friends and family.

Life is truly a gift!

Scripture of the week: “Though an army may encamp against me, My heart shall not fear; Though war may rise against me, In this I will be confident.” - Psalms‬ ‭27‬:‭3‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

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The Marian Ladies Bowls Club once again demonstrated its commitment to community care, completing another year of heartfelt giving through two meaningful projects that touched both young women and aged-care residents across the Mackay region.

In the lead-up to Christmas, members assembled twenty-six thoughtfully packed handbags for the annual Share the Dignity campaign. Each bag was filled with essential items, and a few small luxuries, to support women and girls facing domestic violence, homelessness, or financial hardship.

Club treasurer Judith Miller said the initiative had become a long-standing tradition. Each year, Share the Dignity provides handbags to women in need, and the club has contributed for the past decade.

Members hoped the bags would “give a little joy and happiness to the recipients,” she said.

Their service didn’t stop there.

Last week, Club Secretary Lyn Jackson and Judith Miller delivered twelve handmade knee rugs to Anne Crowley, Facility Manager at Ozcare’s St Elizabeth Villa Aged Care Facility.

Crocheted and knitted by club members, the colourful rugs were crafted with both comfort and companionship in mind.

Anne Crowley said the rugs would be put to good use in the Theatre Room, offering warmth and homely comfort to residents during activities.

This ongoing project has already reached multiple facilities, with Ozcare now the second aged-care home in the Mackay region to receive the lovingly made rugs in a true showcase of kindness, connection, and community spirit.

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Club Members

Judith Miller, Lyn Jackason, Anne Crowley. Photos supplied

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