In a frantic search for her daughter’s beloved bunny, a Mackay mother turned to a local mums and bubs Facebook page, hoping the power of community could help return her little girl’s most cherished companion. “Long shot, but us mummabears will do anything for our munchkins,” she wrote. “Andergrove State School mums and parents, my daughter has misplaced or lost her purple plush bunny at school… She is absolutely devastated.” The treasured toy – a Frankie & Friends plush bunny – carried
Read the full storyThe 2025 Woollam Art on Show Awards & Exhibition is already generating strong national interest, with entries coming in from across Australia and growing support from art societies, artist groups, and regional advocates. Now in its 19th year, the exhibition has become a key fixture in Mackay’s cultural calendar and a recognised highlight of the Mackay Festival of Arts. The $10,000 prize pool and the high standard of presentation continue to attract both emerging and well-established artists fro
Read the full storyLocal business Professional Inspectors is proudly celebrating 20 years of service to the Mackay region, offering trusted building and pest inspections backed by decades of experience and deep local knowledge. At the heart of the business is Jeff Keioskie, a well-known and highly respected figure in Mackay’s building industry. With over 45 years of experience, Jeff brings an exceptional level of expertise to every inspection. His background spans housing, group title units, commercial and indust
Read the full storyStan Camm Park in Midge Point has officially reopened following the completion of significant upgrade works. Mayor Greg Williamson said the revitalised park was a great example of council’s commitment to improving liveability across the region. “Creating high-quality public spaces like this is all part of council’s broader vision to enhance liveability for our residents,” Mayor Williamson said. “Stan Camm Park has always been a much-loved space and these upgrades make it more accessible, func
Read the full storyThe Queensland Small Business Commissioner (QSBC), Dominique Lamb, visited the Whitsundays last week to engage with the local business community and budding entrepreneurs, providing valuable insights and support tailored to the unique challenges faced by small businesses in the area.
Council’s Economic Development Team hosted an event for the Commissioner to showcase the extensive support available through the QSBC to help businesses succeed. This includes financial advice, upskilling and training, assistance with navigating disputes and government regulations, wellness checks, and a variety of other tools.
Approximately 40 people attended the event held in Cannonvale and the Commissioner then travelled to Bowen to have one-on-one meetings with some local businesses there.
Initiatives such as these are crucial in fostering a resilient small business community in the Whitsundays and I encourage everyone to use the QSBC as it’s a fantastic resource.
I represented our region at the Greater Whitsunday Council of Mayors meeting which is a partnership between Whitsunday, Isaac and Mackay Councils to identify joint opportunities for innovation and collaboration across the region.
This group works together to address regional issues, promote sustainable development, and advocate for the interests of our communities at state and federal levels. By pooling resources and expertise, the aim is to get better leverage when advocating for the region.
Over the recent weeks my fellow councillors and I have been through a new council induction which has included updates on changes to legislation and planning for mandatory training to be completed over the first six months of the term. We’ve also been in discussions about the upcoming budget with our attention drawn to the intricate balance between meeting community needs, recognising the cost-of-living pressures and maintaining financial responsibility. We are looking to adopt the budget in late June with information to be provided to the community in due course.
The Disaster Management Team kicked off their visits to primary schools across the region for Under 8’s Day! Under 8’s provides us with a unique opportunity to educate our youngest community members about the importance of disaster preparedness and safety. As a father myself I know that kids are great for sharing their knowledge and teaching their parents a thing or two from time to time!
They also enjoy saying hi to our disaster mascot Turbine and have had fun completing activities in our disaster preparedness activity book, which helps them prepare for disasters in a fun way. While we aren’t officially in storm season anymore, disasters can strike at anytime and it’s important our community is prepared all year round.
From Mayor of the Whitsundays, Ry Collins
Councillor Clay Bauman, Queensland Small Business Commissioner Dominique Lamb and Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
Whitsunday Regional Council promotes responsible pet ownership to enhance community safety and enjoyment. Always keep dogs leashed in public spaces such as parks, reserves, and foreshores, except in designated 'off lead' areas. This practice not only ensures everyone's safety but also allows all community members to enjoy these spaces worry-free. For those times when your dog can roam freely, check the Council’s website for detailed maps of approved off-leash areas where your pet can safely explore and play!
Celebrated local artist, Karen Jacobsen, has been nominated for an Australian Independent Record Award in recognition of her Misogyny Opus masterpiece.
The Mackay-born artist, known widely as the ‘Voice of Siri’, moved back from America with her family several years ago, electing to make the Whitsundays her home.
Since then, Karen has been cultivating a career in Australia, becoming a popular personality and talented artist both locally and nationally.
The acclaimed pop orchestral work, Misogyny Opus, recites word for word Julia Gillard’s historic speech and is performed by Karen who is accompanied by musicians from the Queensland Symphony Orchestra.
Nominated in the Best Independent Classical Album or EP category, the song is vying for the award against The Australian Chamber Orchestra among other prominently known performers.
Karen says she feels deeply honoured to be seen alongside these incredible musicians.
“I truly feel like I have already won!” she expressed.
“The other nominees in comparison are very well-known, it’s such a boost to be alongside them and flying the flag for female composers.”
Karen said she would like to thank the Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre (MECC) for being her co-commissioning partner, along with Mayor Greg Williamson, MECC Acting Manager Jemma Carey and the rest of the team.
The news of the nomination could not have come at a better time for Karen who has just released a new album, The Slipstream, which features 10 cinematic, timeless, melodic, piano-driven songs which were written and recorded remotely between Airlie Beach and New York City.
Karen Jacobsen has been nominated for an Australian Independent Record Award in recognition of her Misogyny Opus masterpiece. Photo supplied
It’s that time of year again when those who are looking to build wealth are reviewing strategies to minimise their taxation expenses prior to the 30 June deadline. Whether you own a successful business, are on a good salary or have had a once-off taxable transaction such as selling an asset and triggering a capital gain, there are a variety of legitimate, legal strategies to help minimise your tax bill or boost your refund.
Tax minimisation is all about creating tax deductible expenses to offset taxable income and therefore reduce tax payable. If an individual is in the top personal tax bracket, they are paying 47% income tax and therefore any tax-deductible expenses are really only taking 53 cents in the dollar out of their pocket as the Government is funding the remainder.
Spending a dollar to save 47 cents tax only makes sense if the expense is part of a logical, broader investment strategy that will deliver an acceptable return to the investor on the 53 cents they have contributed. This return may be in the form of capital growth on a portfolio of traditional passive investments such as shares, bonds and property, or in the form of income streams from investments at a later stage. The science is in researching and finding tax deductible expenses which have a realistic prospect of delivering the required return with an acceptable level of risk.
Common strategies include utilising the superannuation tax structure, negative gearing programs or prepaying expenses. Superannuation is a simple savings scheme so you can retire after 60 years of age with huge tax benefits when you contribute. Negative gearing is borrowing to invest into shares or property, which is inherently riskier than a saving plan but suits some people. Pre-paying might be a farmer topping up their fuel or fertiliser account or pre-paying interest for 12 months on your tax-deductible loans to bring the extra interest into this year.
30th June is just around the corner. It’s time to get serious about your strategy.
For a free consultation with local people who understand the complexities of these or any other financial matter, contact Eclipse Financial Planning at Cannonvale on 49467359 today or visit www.eclipsefp.come.au
“Who do I think I am talking and advising about leadership? Wait til someone realises I’m not the expert in this field . . . Wait till someone discovers my past epic failures.”
This is the little voice in my head I’ve come to fear and now finally befriend after many years.
This voice follows me around most days and is either so small I can hardly hear it, or booming through my ears loud enough for me to think everyone around me can hear it.
Imposter Syndrome is feelings of self-doubt and negative self-talk, resulting in missed opportunities.
If you weren’t aware, the majority of humans suffer from this at some stage in their life. It most commonly occurs when starting something new – a new job or a new role.
We often fear we are out of our depth and people will realise we don’t know what we are doing or are not as capable as they assume we are.
We believe the worst-case scenario may be realised, our fear of being seen as a failure.
The negative: It stops you from reaching your potential.
The positive: It spurs you on to become more knowledgeable, competent, experienced; it can be a catalyst for personal and professional growth and development.
Exposing your Imposter Syndrome to the light and sharing your fears with good friends helps alleviate any beliefs these thoughts are real.
Your peer group will help challenge this negative self-talk and dilute its potential power over you.
Don’t let Imposter Syndrome hinder your ability to reach your potential. Identify it when it creeps in, understand it’s a normal human response, and use it to push you forward.
Contributed with thanks to Judy Porter From Shiift.
This week is National Volunteer Week, and Tourism Whitsundays is celebrating the incredible Whitsunday Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors.
Since 2004, their tropical shirts and warm smiles have become synonymous with arriving in Airlie Beach.
These passionate volunteers are the first to greet cruise ship passengers, offering a wealth of local knowledge and ensuring a smooth start to their Whitsunday adventure.
These volunteers have already welcomed over 44 cruise ships and nearly 77,000 passengers in 2024 alone.
Their dedication goes far beyond their cruise ship duties. With a love for their region that shines through, they also volunteer at the Whitsunday Visitor Information Centre. You'll also find them lending a hand at community events like the Lions Markets, the Airlie Beach Marathon Festival, and the Great Barrier Reef Festival.
The Cruise Ship Ambassadors are a testament to the true spirit of The Whitsundays, they are welcoming, knowledgeable, and deeply invested in their community, ensuring every visitor feels welcome within our region.
This National Volunteer Week, we offer a heartfelt thank you to the Cruise Ship Ambassadors, and all volunteers who dedicate their time and passion to making our region a vibrant and unforgettable destination.
Contributed with thanks to CEO of Tourism Whitsundays, Rick Hamilton
Fuel your sense of wonder and excitement at Coral Sea Marina, where every visit promises unforgettable experiences.
Nestled in the wondrous Whitsundays, Coral Sea Marina is the heart of adventure and relaxation for travellers seeking an extraordinary winter escape. Renowned as the region's premier tourism hub, this marina is a treasure trove of experiences, promising endless adventures and unforgettable memories. As the temperatures drop elsewhere, Coral Sea Marina emerges as a vibrant tropical haven, teeming with life and excitement.
In 2023, Coral Sea Marina celebrated a decade under the visionary leadership of Paul Darrouzet, marking a milestone of transformation and innovation. Awards such as "Best Community Support" and recognition as a finalist for "Superyacht Industry Service Provider of the Year" elevated the marina's commitment to excellence. These accolades are a testament to Coral Sea Marina's unwavering dedication to providing unparalleled experiences and fostering connections, both locally and globally.
One of the marina's most captivating initiatives is the Superyacht Donation Hub, which returned in 2024 following a successful pilot scheme. This program embodies Coral Sea Marina's ethos of giving back, facilitating the collection and distribution of essential supplies to remote island communities in the South Pacific. From sporting goods to medical supplies, these donations provide much-needed support and solidarity, bridging the gap between communities and fostering a sense of global responsibility.
Coral Sea Marina's commitment to education and engagement is exemplified by the Coral Sea Academy, an innovative platform designed to connect people with the wonders of the Whitsundays. Through digital expansion, the Academy offers enriching experiences, from virtual tours to educational resources, ensuring that visitors can immerse themselves in the region's natural beauty and cultural heritage.
But perhaps the true magic of Coral Sea Marina lies in its atmosphere—a vibrant tapestry of sights, sounds, and sensations that captivates the senses and ignites the spirit. From the moment you set foot in the marina, you're enveloped in a sense of wonder and possibility. The waterfront pathways, shaded meeting areas, and lush marina gardens beckon you to pause and soak in the beauty of your surroundings.
For boat owners, Coral Sea Marina offers a premium range of shore-based facilities and services, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience. From world-class berthing facilities to attentive guest services, every aspect of the marina is designed to exceed expectations and provide a home away from home.
For visitors, Coral Sea Marina is a gateway to adventure and discovery. Whether you're embarking on a day tour to explore the Whitsunday Islands or chartering your own vessel for a week-long odyssey, the possibilities are endless. Thrill-seekers can indulge in jet ski rides or scenic helicopter flights, while those seeking relaxation can simply watch the boats go by with a drink in hand.
And let's not forget the culinary delights that await at Coral Sea Marina's array of cafes, restaurants, and bistros. From waterfront dining to sunset cocktails, each venue offers a tantalising array of flavours and experiences to savour. Live music and vibrant ambience add to the allure, creating the perfect setting for unforgettable moments with loved ones.
This is where you discover that Coral Sea Marina is more than a marina.
It’s a sanctuary of serenity and a hub for excitement where dreams are realised and memories are made.
With so many award-winning businesses calling Coral Sea Marina home, it really has become the tourism mecca of Airlie Beach, and the ultimate base from which to explore the Whitsundays and Great Barrier Reef.
Observed on 18 May every year, International Maritime Organisation’s (IMO) International Day for Women in Maritime celebrates and recognises women in maritime, with this year's theme "Safe Horizons: Women Shaping the Future of Maritime Safety".
As a multi award-winning, high standard marine operator, Ocean Rafting has been showcasing the Whitsundays for 27 years, always with women at the helm, so to speak, in some shape or form.
International Day for Women in Maritime celebrates women in the industry and is intended to promote the recruitment, retention and sustained employment of women in the maritime sector, raise the profile of women in maritime, strengthen IMO's commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 5 (gender equality) and support work to address the current gender imbalance in maritime.
Owned by long-term locals, Peter and Jan Claxton, not only is Ocean Rafting 50% female owned, but the ratio of female staff to male staff stands at 58% to 42% respectively.
From Skippers, Eco Hosts and Master Reef Guides to Front Office, Accounts, Sales and Marketing, Groups, Catering, HR and Maintenance, females are peppered throughout Ocean Rafting’s core structure.
“Our ratios are very complimentary, which creates a dynamic and gender equal workplace, where support and encouragement for growth and development is strongly supported at all levels of employment,” said Jan.
“We promote internally and truly believe it is based on the individual’s personality, performance, passion and desire for growth. This mindset has allowed us to support the personal development of our female staff, who work with us in both shore-based and sea-going posts.
“Our structure and values reflect a strong culture of gender equality, and we are proud to support women with their unique capabilities. It goes without saying that we are extremely proud of all our staff,” said Jan.
For enquiries and bookings, call Ocean Rafting on 4946 6848, email tours@oceanrafting.com.au or visit your local agent.
The amazing team at Ocean Rafting. Photo supplied
It’s time to celebrate sunsets, sea views and decadent dining with two of the best local Whitsundays’ restaurants both marking five years in business this year. The iconic Italian inspired eatery, Sorrento's, and the enchanting Garden Bar, both located at Coral Sea Marina, and both owned by the same family, are popular with locals and tourists alike.
In April, Sorrento Restaurant and Bar reached its five-year milestone and it was time for owners, husband and wife Iyas and Mandy, and sister Penny to reflect back on how far the business had come. The renovation of the Ocean Deck was a highlight, enabling Sorrento’s to welcome guests for an à la carte dining experience with ultimate uninterrupted 180-degree waterfront views of the Coral Sea. This newly upgraded space also opened opportunities to offer a function space which has become popular for everything from weddings to events.
Over the years, awards have also been won including 2nd place at the Australian Wedding
Industry Awards (1st in The Whitsundays/Mackay) this year and 5 Star Certificates of Excellence four years running, Best of Qld Experience Program and Best Italian Restaurant.
While the upstairs Ocean Deck is a refined dining experience, the downstairs bar area offers a more casual atmosphere where stunning views of the Whitsundays are accompanied by live acoustic music daily.
The Garden Bar, located just a short stroll from Sorrento’s overlooking the Marina’s super yachts, offers a similar high standard of delicious cuisine, stunning sunsets, marina views and vibrant atmosphere, but with its own unique twist. This venue, which was featured on Jetstar, celebrates five years in November. Since the family took over they have completely transformed the menu, provided casual, intimate dining and also expanded to offer function spaces, specialising in group bookings and now offering Weddings in The Garden.
A contemporary cocktail bar set right on the waterfront, Garden Bar offers fresh, signature cocktails and a simple yet superb menu infused with influences from across the globe. Blending comfortable seating and stylish design, lush tropical greenery and incredible marina views, Garden Bar is simply a special venue.
Iyas, Mandy and Penny would like to thank the Coral Sea Marina for their constant support, as well as the venues long term Managers, Chefs and Staff; it’s a team effort.
Mandy, Iyas and Penny celebrating their 5 years. Photo supplied
For just over a decade, Airlie Boat Hire has been giving its customers the freedom to explore the Whitsundays independently by becoming the captain of one of the vessels they have for hire.
Their exceptional personalised service, selection of quality vessels and the convenient extras, such as their range of water activities and eskies, make Airlie Boat Hire an easy, exciting and affordable way to get out on the water.
Airlie Boat Hire sits securely at the heart of Coral Sea Marina surrounded by floating pontoons and an efficient floating office.
This rapidly expanding business began with two boats in 2014, and now operates with over 10 vessels in their fleet.
Customers possessing a recreational boat license are able to hire a vessel on a self-hire basis to enjoy a day on the water or an extended hire period, which can include multiple days indulging in all the Whitsundays has to offer.
Those without a boat license can still join in on the fun with relaxing day trips and fishing excursion in the protected waters of the beautiful bays running alongside the mainland. Airlie Boat Hire conveniently hires out fishing rods, tackle boxes, snorkeling equipment, stinger suits, solar powered phone chargers, sunshades, and much more to further ensure both their travelling and local customers get the most out of their experience.
New to the fleet are the McLay CrossXover and an impressive 7-meter Yellow Fin which stand as luxurious boats to provide an elevated environment with closed cabins and extra shade covers for long days spent in the open ocean.
One of the boats available for hire from Airlie Boat Hire. Photo supplied
On International Nurses Day hospitals and nurses were awarded for their hard work and contribution to the world of nursing, with Bowen Hospital recognised amongst the winners.
James Cook University (JCU) awarded Bowen Hospital for Outstanding Contribution to Student Learning for Nursing and Midwifery.
Students from JCU said they experienced great opportunities, were treated respectfully, encouraged to be involved and felt supported by the registered nurses (RN) at the hospital, whilst completing their placement at Bowen Hospital.
The hospital staff do not know who nominated them for the award, but they imagine it was the students.
Since the early 1990’s Bowen Hospital has welcomed JCU students to their hospital to complete their placement.
Placements are essential and have to be completed by the students in order to get their degrees.
On placement, students see and learn from real life experiences.
At Bowen Hospital, the small size and rural setting provides students with a broader range of practical services, more than what they would experience in a CBD hospital.
“You’re a jack of all trades here, you don’t just get to do one area of health,” said Director of Nursing Facility Manager, Julie Minogue.
“You’re working with mental health, paediatrics, adults with respiratory disease, you're working in trauma and emergency, cardiac and resuscitation.
“We try to expose them to everything we possibly can.”
Bowen Hospital understand that it can be quite confronting but say it is important for the student nurses to learn as much as possible while they study.
Nurse Student Manager, Anne Buckingham said they train over 10 student nurses a year and that the students become a real asset to the team, helping to ensure smooth operation of the whole hospital.
In addition to students taking their placement, Bowen Hospital offers them paid work.
“At Bowen, we actually encourage students to work here during their time, while they’re doing their training,” said Ms Minogue.
“Once they've done their first year, they can come here, as a student in nursing, they're employed like an assistant in nursing, and are paid for their hours.
“They work at a lower level, so they can't make the decisions they make when they're registered nurses, but in third year, they start to get some patients allocated to them under the supervision of a registered nurse and we start to develop them.”
Director of Nursing Facility Manager, Julie Minogue and Nurse Student Manager, Anne Buckingham holding the award from JCU.
Clinical Nurse Jayde Knight, previous JCU Student and RN Georgie Guest, previous JCU Student and RN Stacey Harrex, RN Amanda Glazebrook, RN Amy Cunningham and Nurse Student Manager, Anne Buckingham. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
Experience the thrill of a Red Cat Adventures, an award-winning tour orbiting the Whitsunday Islands in a single day. Explore iconic destinations like Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet lookout as well as snorkeling spots on the Great Barrier Reef. Departing from Airlie Beach, this all-inclusive package welcomes families, couples and groups seeking unforgettable adventures.
Meet Reece Fearnside, a seasoned skipper with Red Cat Adventures, who has spent the last 18 months orchestrating memorable maritime experiences.
For Reece, the decision to pursue a career on the water was a calling deeply ingrained in his soul.
“I’ve always wanted to work on the water, I absolutely love the ocean – it’s where my heart is at,” he shared.
Since joining Red Cat Adventures in September 2022, Reece has witnessed the business flourish, particularly with the introduction of the new Outer Reef Snorkel Adventure, where he took on the pivotal role of skipper.
At Red Cat Adventures, he excels in the realm of underwater knowledge, specifically in relation to coral and aims to showcase the vibrant underwater life while providing a personalised experience for all involved.
Originally from North Stradbroke Island, Reece's journey to the Whitsundays was fueled by the allure of paradise and the chance to merge work with recreation.
"What brought me to the area was the opportunity to work and play in paradise," he enthused.
When he’s not at the helm of the waves, he’s back in nature, engaging in adventurous hobbies such as camping, freediving and seeking out hidden treasures in waterfalls.
Reece describes his personality as "Patient, driven and honest," which undoubtedly contribute to his success as a skipper along with his ability to create memorable experiences for others.
Now that you’re acquainted with the skipper, jump on board and take an exhilarating journey around the Whitsunday Islands, that promises adventure, scenic marvels and unforgettable encounters with the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef.
So what are you waiting for? Book a Red Cat Adventure today!
Reece Fearnside
The Whitsundays was on show at the Townsville Expo last weekend.
Three team members from Bowen Tourism and Business and a representative from Tourism Whitsundays all attended the expo, along with several Whitsunday operators.
Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said all expos and trade shows were a great way to showcase what we have to offer in the region.
“We spoke to thousands of people who were interested in visiting our piece of paradise,” she said.
“Growing the drive market is a very important part of what we do.
“We were able to provide people from Townsville and surrounds with information about Bowen, Collinsville, Airlie Beach and Proserpine.”
The expo is held annually and is the region’s largest and most successful event of its kind.
There were more than 100 exhibitors at this year’s Townsville Expo.
The Mackay Expo is being held this weekend, May 24-26, at the Mackay Showgrounds.
Glenn Womal representing Bowen Tourism and Business and Carolyn Bromley representing Tourism Whitsundays. Photo supplied
The winners of North Queensland Bulk Port’s (NQBP) ‘Design your Dream Jetty’ art competition were announced last week.
There were close to 100 entries in the competition, with the youth of Bowen submitting their designs in a special art competition which invited them to highlight ideas for a future jetty.
There were three categories - Lower Primary, Upper Primary and High School, and each category had two winners, the Winner and the Encouragement Award.
Piper from Bowen State Primary School won the Lower Primary School award.
From Queens Beach State School, Matilda won the Upper Primary School award and Elsie won the Lower Primary School Encouragement Award.
Ella from St Mary’s Catholic School won the Encouragement Award in the Upper Primary category.
Winners of the High School category were Sarah and Isaac.
All winners received a cash prize.
NQBP Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Brendan Webb said the competition provided Bowen youth with an opportunity to create artwork to represent their ideas for a future Jetty.
“We’ve received fantastic ideas from the young people of Bowen,” Mr Webb said.
“The entries showcased not only creativity in their designs but also practical safety and accessibility features, such as lighting,”
The competition is part of the government-owned port authority’s project to develop a concept design for the Bowen Jetty.
NQBP have been utilising the Bowen Jetty for tugboat operation for some time but are soon due to move this service away leaving the Jetty redundant.
To future proof this historic community asset, they have kindly coordinated a variety of outreach projects to source ideas for its next purpose in life.
Mr Webb said acknowledging history, public amenities and the opportunity for recreational activities will be core considerations in the design.
“Dating from the late 1860s, the current structure is nearing its end of life,” he said.
“However, thanks to a $50 million commitment from the State Government, the future of the jetty has been assured.”
NQBP CEO Brendan Webb with Lower Primary School winner Piper and Bowen State Primary Principal Christien Payne.
NQBP Senior Advisor Stakeholder Engagement Stacey Gibson with Upper Primary Encouragement Award winner Ella and St Mary's Catholic School Principal Alicia Ninnes.
Queens Beach State School Acting Principal Nadine Gibbons, NQBP CEO Brendan Webb and General Manager Infrastructure Tim Lewis with Upper Primary School winner Matilda and Lower Primary School Encouragement Award Elsie.
High School winner Sarah and Encouragement Award winner Isaac with NQBP Project Director Nawar Spear, CEO Brendan Webb and General Manager Infrastructure Tim Lewis.
Photos supplied
Gizelle Lee, a beautiful young Whitsunday resident is about to head to Paris Fashion Week, having been selected by a Sunshine Coast Based modelling agency to represent their brand.
Gizelle is just 16 years old, and, for over a year, she has been pursuing a career in modelling.
Following her first modelling experience with Belle Le Chic, Gizelle was selected to be their signature model at the widely known fashion week.
Belle Le Chic also included a picture from the shoot on a billboard in Times Square, New York, and Gizelle has truly hit the ground running.
Modelling comes naturally for Gizelle who has been praised for her work in front of the camera.
Travelling to Paris Fashion Week, however, is a self-funded experience and Gizelle needs to raise money for herself and her mother as she is underage and cannot travel alone.
Determined to raise as much funds as possible Gizelle has been working at Little Vegas Burger & Bar to save for the travel costs.
To help her in her endeavours, Little Vegas Burger & Bar owner, Tristan, is preparing an in-house fundraiser whereby a portion of every special Gizelle burger sold will be donated towards her trip to Paris.
In addition, Gizelle has already organised car washes at her family business BASE 51, sausage sizzles and an event, all in hopes to raise enough for her to feature in the fashion week, which would be a huge scouting opportunity for her.
Gizelle is also in the development stages of creating a juice stand at the Airlie Beach Markets.
Called Coco Hut, Gizelle will be selling tropical drinks to thirsty customers.
In addition to all of Gizelle’s hard work, a GoFundMe has been started to further help with funds if needed.
Gizelle Lee on billboard in Times Square, New York
Gizelle Lee
Photos supplied