The team at Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper are beyond thrilled to announce the news they have just taken out three top gongs at the annual Queensland Country Press Awards which were held in the Sunshine Coast over the weekend.

The accolades include Best One-off Commercial Feature, Best Locally Produced Advertising Campaign and the most significant award of the night, Best Free Newspaper.

Back row: Cadet Journalist Daniel Heggie, Sales and Social Media Representative Ruby Gorlick, Graphic Designer Taylor Trewartha. Front row: Junior Graphic Designer Lara Moss, Editor in Chief Rachael Smith and Production Manager Crissy Bottrell. Photo credit: Norina Jane.

Big Awards For Small Passionate Team

Representatives from Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper headed down to the Sunshine Coast last weekend to attend the annual Queensland Country Press Awards.

This was the third year in a row the team attended the awards, returning last year with one gold, a silver and two bronze accolades.

This year, they were elated to discover they had won the top gong, bringing home the award for Best Free Newspaper, along with Best One-off Commercial Feature for Mackay Life’s Fergus Builders Feature and Best Locally Produced Advertising Campaign for Burdekin Life’s My Pets Rural advert.

Rachael Smith, Editor in Chief of Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper, commented that representing the team at last weekend’s awards was one of the best moments of her life.

“Best Free Newspaper in Queensland is the award I was always hoping we’d get but I honestly thought it would take us another couple of years to get there,” she explained.

“We are a newspaper that is very much ‘out of the box’ and I didn’t think judges really knew how to take us! But hearing that they loved our newspaper as much as we do, and our community does, is real validation for what we’ve been doing over the past four years.

“The judges commented that our passion for community really shone through, and that is something I am most proud of.”

There are 60 Queensland newspapers which are registered members of Queensland Country Press and the award for Best Free Newspaper was judged by industry experts who viewed six consecutive issues of the newspaper.

“What I love about the judging process is that every aspect of the newspaper was commended, from the designs to the page layouts, the editorial content to the advertising sales – our whole team earned this award and everyone contributed!”

Owner and Publisher of Mackay and Whitsunday Life, Rebecca Douthwaite, has been the driving force behind the publication since its inception and the creator of the now-infamous flip-book format.

She said she was extremely proud of the whole team and thrilled with the awards.

A real highlight for her was to be sat in a room full of newspaper professionals, some of whom had been publishing news for over 100 years, and to be recognised among such revered experts in their field.

“To get the nod from the Queensland Country Press Association at such a high level was very exciting for such a small regional newspaper that started on the back of News Corp shutting down all local newspapers and us feeling the need to bring the community back a free voice in print,” she expressed.

“When you look at a big corporate organisation, compared to the small passionate team we have, it’s very different and vast in what’s available – we’re just so lucky to have such great human beings, real human beings serving our community every day.”

Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper was launched in July 2020 by Core Life Publishing, a company which produces Core Life Magazine and Tripping Magazine.

Bringing together their passion for photography, eye for vibrant graphic design and aptitude for compassionate storytelling, the weekly newspaper was launched.

With no formal training in newspaper production, the team created their own rules and delivered weekly news on their own terms, carving out a unique formula which focused on heart-felt 100% local stories.

They are now thrilled to call this an award-winning formula that is not only proving popular with the local community but also leading to state-wide accolades and commendation from print industry leaders.

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“we’re just so lucky to have such great human beings, real human beings serving our community every day.” Rebecca Douthwaite

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The Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper representatives standing with Opposition Leader David Crisafulli at the Queensland Country Press Awards last Friday night. Sam Gillespie from Burdekin Life Newspaper, Rebecca Douthwaite Founder and Owner of Life Publishing Group, David Crisafulli Leader of the Opposition and Rachael Smith Editor in Chief of Life Publishing Group. Photo credit: Samantha Wantling

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Proserpine Community Centre hosted their Biggest Morning Tea event last Friday.

The theme for the event was ‘Come to the Cook Islands’ and bright colours and traditional Cook Island ‘ei katu or flower crowns were all in sight.

Every guest was greeted with a handmade flower crown, the room was filled with them, and Tivaevae quilts adorned the walls, coconuts and flowers decorated the tables, all items bringing together a vibrant tropical theme.

During the morning, there was of course morning tea as well as a fashion show, music and more.

All this was organised and hosted by 15 local ladies, calling themselves The Tivaevae Mamas, and they were thrilled with the success with over 60 people attending the lively event.

This morning tea, however, wasn’t just a nice afternoon full of fun and laughs, it was a charity event which raised $2,700 for Cancer Research, an outstanding amount of money that will go to a great cause.

The morning concluded with a give-away, spreading more joy to the Proserpine community.

A raffle for the Tivaevae quilt decoration, flowers, a set of cushions and Lucky Door prizes all went to a new home to be enjoyed.

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Colourful handmade flower crowns were the theme of the day. Photos supplied

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Stories of a family with a newborn baby living in a tent in Bowen have compelled Member for Burdekin Dale Last to call for urgent assistance to the current housing crisis that is sweeping the nation.

Mr Last is asking for the issue to be addressed immediately, demanding a response to a recent Question on Notice from the Housing Minister which, he believes, proved the people of Bowen had been left with broken promises in their hour of need.

“We have waited for this response from the Minister in the hope of having a clear indication of what help is actually out there for people seeking crisis accommodation in Bowen,” he said.

“Unfortunately, the response from the Minister confirmed our fears that there is no crisis accommodation available in Bowen.”

“This is the same town in my electorate that I spoke about in Parliament where, sadly, a local family with a newborn baby were living in a tent.

“You would think their tragic story alone would trigger the Minister to pull whatever strings are needed to fund crisis accommodation in the Bowen area.”

Mr Last stated that the housing crisis is having knock-on effects, contributing to staff shortages with workers unable to find accommodation locally.

“We are already seeing detrimental impacts of this housing crisis in other areas of our electorate with potential new teachers turning down jobs in Bowen due to a lack of housing,” he states.

Do you have a story about how the housing crisis is impacting your family – let’s spread the word and create action – email rachael@lifepublishinggroup.com.

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Stock image, illustration only

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The latest victim of severe staff shortages in the medical industry is the Bowen Herbert Street Family Medical Centre which announced this week that it will close its doors at the end of June.

Over 200 GP clinics in Australia have closed down in the past year, many of them citing the same reason – they simply cannot get enough GPs.

Bowen Herbert Street Family Medical Centre is operated by the Girudala Community Cooperative Society, which is a non-for-profit organisation which predominantly overseas the welfare of Indigenous and South Sea Islander community members.

Since 2010, Girudala has been operating the Medical Centre and they welcome all patients, with more than 2,000 people registered on their books.

When they close their doors on June 30, there will only be two other medical centres in Bowen, servicing a population of over 10,000 people.

Bowen Herbert Street Family Medical Centre was also the last service to offer Bulkbilling to all patients.

The other Bowen GP clinics offer Bulkbilling to pensioners and children under 16, but there was a huge demand to fill the gap for vulnerable people that did not fit that age-bracket.

Bowen Herbert Street Family Medical Centre filled that gap.

The closure of this much-needed medical Centre will put immense pressure not only on the other GP clinics but also Bowen Hospital.

A spokesperson for Bowen Herbert Street Family Medical Centre, Jean Andersen, said they are appealing for help.

“It’s been a really hard decision to close the doors and we’ve been trying to reach out to the government for some kind of support,” she explained.

“We’ve gone through everything we can think of and now we’ve made the decision, our primary focus is to refer our patients onto other health services.

“I’m sure every rural and remote community is crying out for GPs as well; we are asking the government to help us in any way they can – is there any funding to attract doctors here?
“We need a resolution soon and I really hope we can find one.”

For several years, the Bowen Herbert Street Family Medical Centre has been surviving with locum GPs who work at the clinic for short periods.

A few years ago, they had two permanent doctors, but there are now no regular GPs to fill the huge demand and the service simply cannot cope anymore.

“This is a national crisis and governments are failing remote communities like Bowen, who simply cannot afford to pay for doctors,” stated Ms Andersen.

“The closure of Herbert Street will place extreme pressure on health services in the area and we’re calling on local governments, namely local, state and commonwealth to work together with us and with the community to develop a sustainable long-term and viable medical health solution.”

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Local events to mark Reconciliation Week took place across the Whitsundays this week, beginning with a special ceremony hosted by Whitsunday Regional Council and held in Proserpine on Monday.

Mayor Ry Collins was in attendance and said he was honoured to participate in the ceremony held at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, which marked the beginning of National Reconciliation Week. 
 
"The ceremony was a poignant reminder of our shared history and the importance of reconciliation," he said.
 
"During this week, it is important we all take time to educate ourselves, to listen, and to engage in meaningful conversations about reconciliation. 
 
“I would like to thank all those involved in the ceremony, including Yooribaya Cultural Experiences and representatives from our local schools, who came together to share their messages celebrating Indigenous culture and promoting understanding on the journey of reconciliation.”

National Reconciliation Week (NRW) provides an opportunity for every Australian to delve into our collective pasts, cultures, and successes, while contemplating our individual roles in fostering reconciliation across the nation.

Make sure to visit the Airlie Beach Foreshore tonight, Friday 31 May, from 5pm onwards for a Welcome to Country, Smoking Ceremony, Traditional dance, songs and workshops with Yooribaya Cultural Experiences.

The night ends with a showing of ‘The Last Daughter’ a documentary film about Aboriginal woman Brenda, that remembers growing up with her loving white foster parents before suddenly being taken away and returned to her Aboriginal family.

Along the way she uncovers long-buried secrets, government lies, and the possibility for deeper connections to family and culture. 

Watch Brenda’s journey to unearth the truth about her past, and to reconcile the two sides of her family.

In Bowen, Reconciliation Week continues with The Reconciliation Week Twilight Markets starting at 4pm, Friday 31 May at Hansen Park. This event will showcase traditional cultural arts and customs such as a Welcome to Country, smoking Ceremony and traditional dance.

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Mayor Ry Collins at the PEC giving a speech to mark the beginning of Reconciliation Week
Uncle Robert Congoo conducting the Smoking Ceremony

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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As part of World Boating Day, Coral Sea Marina are launching their own documentary series which will showcase the Whitsundays and display why it is the ultimate cruising destination.

There will be three episodes and they’ll all be relevant to anyone interested in boating in the Whitsundays.
 
The first episode, “Your Whitsunday Home Port”, explores the top-notch facilities and services offered at Coral Sea Marina, as well as delving into what’s on offer in Airlie Beach and the surrounds. 
 
Episode 2, “A Local’s Guide to Cruising the Whitsundays” features Sharon Smallwood, a seasoned sailor and long-time resident of the Whitsundays, as she offers viewers an exclusive glimpse into her favourite cruising spots, hidden gems, and must-see locations throughout the Whitsunday Islands. 
 
The episode includes breathtaking footage of Smallwood’s own sailing expeditions onboard her yacht, Brilliant II, showcasing the diversity of experiences available to boaters in the Whitsundays. From tranquil sunsets to exhilarating hikes, viewers will be immersed in the magic of exploring the region on the water. 
 
The third episode, “Discover the Great Barrier Reef”, is a deep dive into UNESCO World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef. Experienced Master Guides Crystal Lacey, James Unsworth, and Brent Chatterton, offer invaluable insights into the natural wonders of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park with their extensive knowledge and expertise in marine biology, reef ecology, and sustainable tourism. 
 
“We set out to create a series of videos that would educate and inspire people to cruise the Whitsundays and Great Barrier Reef region and have hopefully achieved that with help of some industry experts sharing their knowledge and passion with the viewer”, explained Joscelyn O’Keefe, Head of Marketing and Business Development for Coral Sea Marina. 
 

Coral Sea Marina, Photo supplied

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Two forward-thinking local individuals and leaders in their field have brought their industry together by creating the inaugural Social Enterprise Conference which took place in the Whitsundays last week.

Inviting 120 Neighbourhood and Community Centres from across Queensland to the conference, Bec Woods of Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre and Steph Cora from Bowen Neighbourhood centre Cora led the inspiring two-day event.

Beginning with a day in Cannonvale, participants were involved with a series of workshops and information sessions.

“We wanted more professional development opportunities closer to home, and we thought, why not host an event ourselves?” Ms Woods explained.

“We are stepping into new territory [delivering a conference] but we are excited to show our peers what we can achieve.”

The second day of the event took place at Flagstaff Hill Conference Centre in Bowen.

“It was really important that we showcased the whole region,” Ms Woods said.

“We want to showcase our communities and the best way to do this was to host the event in each location,” Ms Cora added.

“Facilitating 120 attendees to spend time in our region is one of the best ways to support our towns.”

An opportunity for professional development, the conference made inspiring movement toward social enterprise models and less reliance on funding from the government and charity to deliver community development.

Eight knowledgeable speakers were brought together to lead a variety of workshops and lectures on relevant subjects.

The conference has been supported by industry peak body Neighbourhood Centre Queensland, Abbott Point Operations and Whitsunday Regional Council.

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Rebecca Woods from Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre speaking at the inaugural Social Enterprise Conference. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Work on a refurbished community mental health facility at 32 Chapman Street in
Proserpine is progressing well with contractors now busy on the internal fit-out of the Greater Whitsundays Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drugs service.

Currently operating out of the Proserpine Hospital, this service will now re-locate and have its own space on Chapman Street, creating a hub for assistance within the community.

Meanwhile, the vacated space at Proserpine Hospital will now make way for a new Renal Dialysis Unit, with construction set to commence in August.

The internal works under way at present are the framing and sheeting of internal
partitions and the installation of internal ceilings.

The relocation of this service is part of a broader $7 million capital project that includes construction of the Renal Dialysis Unit at Proserpine Hospital and staff are looking forward to adding renal haemodialysis to the services provided locally.

Patients in the Proserpine, Cannonvale and Airlie Beach area who currently require
dialysis travel to Bowen and Mackay two or three times a week for care.

The Proserpine renal unit will be a satellite service supported by the Mackay Base
Hospital Renal Unit and will be for stable patients.

Contractors Taylor Builders Townsville advise that they are on track for completion in August 2024.

Chief Executive Susan Gannon said “This is a positive step forward to increase space for those seeking mental health and AODS support, and it will provide access in a purpose-fit building that is separate to the Proserpine Hospital.”

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Team Leader Greater Whitsundays Mental Health and AODS Elise Dawson, Taylor Builders construction manager Alexander Dzidic, Acting Operations Director Mackay Mental Health and AODS Catherine McLaren, project supervisor Clay Pearce and Director of Nursing Proserpine Hospital Nicola Young. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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The much-anticipated new Collinsville Pump Track in Darcy Munro Park is complete and open for public use.

This welcome community activity will see the youth of Collinsville enjoy outdoor recreation at this purpose built facility.

Pump tracks are similar to BMX tracks and the new track provides opportunity for enthusiasts of any age to use the track at their leisure and hone their skills.

It’s a great place to create new friends that share a similar passion for bike riding.

The circuit is designed for users to apply a push-and-pull technique rather than pedalling to make their way over a series of rollers, jumps, and berms.

The installation of the new Pump Track was part of the Whitsunday Regional Council’s ‘Shaping Collinsville’s Future’ consultation.

The Whitsunday Regional Council designed the track to challenge a range of skillsets, most suitable for beginners and intermediates.

The Whitsunday Regional Council would like to thank the Bowen Rail Company for their funding contribution towards the pump track.

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Collinsville Pump Track in Darcy Munro Park, Photo supplied

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Emblazoned on the colourful team shirts proudly worn by our local sporting teams, fashioned for striking work uniforms across multiple business sectors and adorning our adorable children as they head to school each day, you will have seen countless ShirtFront Solutions’ creations over the years, each of them playing a central part in the fabric our community.

At the beating heart of business branding, every aspect of ShirtFront Solutions’ diverse services and product range is conducted from their friendly shopfront in Cannonvale. Whether it be an item of branded clothing or a piece of merchandise, the team can coordinate seamless and cohesive branding solutions that will make your small business, community club or even personal endeavour, pop!

Operated by well-known local couple, Kev Fancke and Kylie Allen, ShirtFront Solutions first began as a small screen-printing business 15 years ago. With 20 years of screen-printing background behind him prior to this, Kev knew he could devote this expertise to his own business. Meanwhile Kylie, a talented graphic designer, brought her creative passions to the table. Adept at business branding, she could provide stunning designs for her clients which were then printed by Kev and the Team on a multitude of fabrics and merchandise.

A perfect partnership soon unfolded.

Over the years the team has both expanded and evolved. They now employ five dedicated team members and are constantly investing in the future of the business, both by expanding their stock range and purchasing new equipment. Incorporating a dedicated embroiderer to the team marked a significant moment and, with high-tech in-house multi-head embroidery machines, ShirtFront Solutions can offer a quick, efficient and high-quality local service for both garment creations and alterations.

And while the art of ‘old-school’ screen-printing is still very much relevant and utilised for specific jobs to this day, the methods by which ShirtFront Solutions can brand clothing has diversified over the years. Always staying abreast of the trends and eager to offer our regional community the most modern, high-tech services, Kev and Kylie are constantly reinvesting in the most up to date machinery.

Digital printing and transfers have become a popular offering, and the team are excited to soon welcome a new direct to film garment printing machine which will elevate their services to the next level. Previously, they had been outsourcing this to another Australia-based supplier, but with the ability to do this in-house, they anticipate it will be a highly sought-after service.

At ShirtFront Solutions they offer so much more than many people realise – from branded pens to stubby holders, sunglass straps, and business cards to stickers – almost all your branding needs can be solved right here in the Whitsundays!

In addition, with every product comes over 30 years of experience in the industry. This means their personalised service includes a ton of free experience which can often save you money, hassle and time. Talk to one of their friendly team members and hear about the different options that could make your branding experience much more streamlined, engaging and ultimately more effective. Not only that, but you are supporting a local business who is actively giving back to the community with the sponsorship of several local sports clubs.

If you haven’t called into ShirtFront Solutions yet, then make sure you take a browse - the business is located at 17/3 Commerce Close, Cannonvale next to Tackleworld. Whether you are looking for new work uniforms, hi-vis PPE gear, team sport kits, kids school clothes or want to have a more in-depth chat about overall business branding or merchandise – they will have the perfect solution for you!

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With 25 years in the field and 15 years of experience as the accounts manager, Jaime Deakes finds working at ShirtFront Solutions very rewarding.

Specialising in organisation with a profound talent and passion for making people laugh, Jaime is loved by her work-colleagues and customers alike.

Having been with the company since its inception, Jaime now dedicates one day per week to completing payroll, managing accounts, assisting with quotes and tackling any additional tasks that arise.

Originally born and bred in Moranbah, she moved to to Airlie Beach in 1998, at which time she decided she was firm on never marrying a Coal Miner…until she fell in love with one and decided to marry him. They have now been happily together for 25 years.

Her three adult children have all moved out to live with their own partners as they begin their own journey towards a prosperous life and, now that they are “empty nesters”, Jaime and her husband enjoy the company of their toy poodles which she says “are like my babies now.”

As an honoured colleague, devoted mother, loving spouse and cherished friend, Jaime's versatile nature extends to her deep appreciation for the outdoors.

Camping trips hold a special place in her heart, yet she also treasures moments of down-time on her property, where she often likes to plug in her earphones, put on a bit of country music and hop on the zero-turn mower.

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“It’s interesting and no two days are the same”, according to Darren (Yogi) Smith, the warehouse manager at ShirtFront and the person who organises everything behind the scenes of the store to ensure a smooth running in all aspects of production.

Yogi had known Kev before ShirtFront was established and the two make a formidable team, both through innovation and fast-paced efficiency.

From managing the warehouse to receiving stock, unpacking all the orders and ensuring that everything is running in tip-top shape, Yogi is at the beating heart of production.

Having relocated from his home town in Geelong to North Queensland 33 years ago, Yogi remained dedicated to his profession ever since. With decades of experience in the field, he brings great value to his role at ShirtFront, contributing to the company's continued success and growth.

In his spare time, Yogi enjoys crafting his own brews at home, casting his line into the tranquil waters, or scouring the earth for precious gems.

“My hobbies are home brewing and fishing, I also love gem fossicking in my spare time,” he said

Yogi’s hobbies reflect his love for the outdoors and relaxation, intertwining with his perspective of his own personality, which he describes as “cool, calm and organised.”

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The youngest member of the team, Fletcher is a calm and confident achiever who is soaking up all the knowledge in his first ever job. Electing to pursue an interest in everything from screen printing to digital transfers, this young man is learning a broad spectrum of skills.

At just 14 years of age, Fletcher spends some weekends and weekdays after school helping out this family business and learning skills from the ground up.

“I peel back the transfers so they’re ready to print, I’ve also tried screen printing before and peel a lot of tape off screens – anything I can do to help out really,” explained Fletcher.

“I love this job because I am always doing different stuff and learning skills that I’ll keep forever – I get to learn how to do a lot of different things.”

Fletcher has lived in the area for the past four years and attends St Catherine’s Catholic College in Proserpine.

Prior to this, he travelled Australia with his family, having many adventures along the way.

In his spare time, he likes to play AFL and go fishing or camping.

Kev and Kylie love having a young apprentice on the team. Not only does he bring a vibrant young energy to Shirtfront Solutions, he also represents the continuation of skills that are now being passed onto a new generation.

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Bringing with her over 60 years of sewing experience, Jenny started learning how to sew at a very young age from her mother who was a skilled tailoress. She can remember sitting under her mother’s feet for hours as a child, watching her sew and absorbing knowledge which she still uses to this day.

For many years, sewing was a much-loved hobby for Jenny, and one that led her to receive significant acclaim. An international prize winner, Jenny’s talent for quilt making has seen her receive world-wide appreciation.

It was just four years ago, however, that Jenny turned her hobby into a profession. Prior to this she worked within the schooling system, having risen in the ranks from teacher’s assistant to school registrar. After purchasing a domestic embroidery machine, however, she discovered a new and exciting avenue to explore. Harnessing her computer savvy knowledge from years in administration, Jenny became proficient in machine operation, and was able to apply these skills to the industrial embroidery machine at Shirtfront Solutions.

She started with the business four years ago and has since taken the helm of this vital section of the company. With a passion for turning drawings into digitised creations, Jenny can generate precise and refined finishes that give your branding a look of finesse and quality workmanship. She is also a highly skilled seamstress, offering everything from alterations to hemming and everyday jobs like fixing zips.

If you are looking for a quality, internationally award-winning seamstress then make sure you call into Shirtfront Solutions today!

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The friendly face that greets you as you walk into the Cannonvale storefront, Michelle is the Office Manager at Shirtfront Solutions.

Adept at answering all your questions, Michelle can guide you through their product range and the different methods of branding your clothing or piece of merchandise. From uniforms for school children to a wide selection of workwear which includes high-vis, health care, corporate and more – Shirtfront Solutions have you covered.

“We take a lot of custom-made orders, and we can create almost anything for anyone!” said Michelle.

“We can mix and match colours and styles, and when someone walks through the door, I can help them work out exactly what they want.”

Michelle started working at Shirtfront Solutions in 2017 when she moved to the Whitsundays from Melbourne with her family. They originally came to the region while on holiday, falling in love with the area and, after 25 years in the pharmaceutical industry, Michelle was ready for a change.

One day she walked through the doors to Shirtfront Solutions to purchase a school uniform for her children and began chatting with Kev and Kylie about the local AFL sporting club. By the end of the day, she not only had a footy team to join, but also a job and career she has come love.

On the weekend you will find Michelle at the footy field with her family, but during the week you will see her at the front desk, ready to take your enquires at Shirtfront Solutions.

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