Renee’s Relentless Fight Through Stage 4 Melanoma

By Amanda Wright

When Renee Fenech felt a pea-sized lump in her upper arm in late 2023, she didn’t panic—but her instincts whispered that something wasn’t right. For months, she’d battled constant headaches while working full time in childcare, pushing through each day with little relief.

“I was told many opinions of what could be troubling my headaches,” she later recalled.

“Neck out, teeth grinding… but Panadol was not helping and my instincts knew something was wrong.”

A doctor initially dismissed the lump as “just a fatty tissue” that would grow. But it did grow, visibly and rapidly, and when another lump emerged in the same arm, Renee pushed for further tests. What followed was a diagnosis that shattered the life she knew: Stage 4 metastatic melanoma. The cancer had spread throughout her body, including her brain.

“I was sent to have a PET scan immediately that found I had metastatic melanomas all throughout my body,” Renee said.

“Meaning I had cancer and a tumour in my brain causing all that built-up pressure I had been experiencing.”

She was immediately admitted to Mackay Base Hospital, before being flown to Townsville for urgent neurosurgery. A large tumour was removed from the left side of her brain. But the operation was only the beginning.

In the weeks that followed, Renee's world unravelled. Her bipolar disorder, already a quiet companion, became unmanageable after the surgery. “My brain was unstable with my bipolar disorder distorting my thought process,” she said.

“I spent my 41st birthday there and celebrated with new friendships formed during my stay.”

For Renee, this was the culmination of a cancer journey that began years earlier. In 2016, she booked into a free mole check at her GP and underwent a biopsy for a suspicious spot on her right forearm.

“It would always start to bleed when scraped past things,” she said. The pathology confirmed it was a nodular melanoma, classified as Level 3 and malignant.

That discovery led to years of vigilance. Another melanoma was removed from her lower back in 2018, followed by one on her right shin in 2020. But each time, she healed, returned to work, and pushed on.

Until now.

The diagnosis of advanced cancer has completely upended her life. Renee now struggles to walk and has had to put her beloved childcare career on hold. Her treatments, four rounds of immunotherapy spaced three weeks apart, resulted in repeated hospitalisations due to severe side effects.

She also underwent Gamma Knife radiation therapy in Brisbane, only to experience another health collapse.

“I spent four weeks in hospital; one lung collapse, liver and pancreatitis affected which led into diabetes,” Renee said.

“It took six months to recover from that before I could start immunotherapy again.”

Through it all, one constant has remained: her mother. She has been her daughter’s carer, companion, and fierce advocate, visiting her daily in hospital, even when it meant relying on public transport. The shift in roles has been monumental, but unwavering.

“I would also like to say many thanks to the Trudy Crowley Foundation for their support to myself and my carer (mother),” Renee said.

“For their friendship and expert advice. And their friendly, open centre to allow people together fighting cancer to talk about their ways of dealing and coping in everyday situations and treatments.”

The Foundation’s fortnightly support groups have been one of the few places where Renee and her mum can catch their breath and talk honestly with people who understand. In a battle filled with unknowns, the comfort of community has become essential.

Theirs is a story not just of cancer, but of quiet endurance. A mother who shows up, every day. A daughter who fights to hold on to hope. And a disease that demands everything, yet still meets defiance.

Despite her setbacks, Renee is determined to one day return to the work she loves.

For now, she’s focused on recovery, on learning to walk again, gaining strength, and navigating a new world where even a short trip can be exhausting. But in sharing her story, she hopes others will listen to their own instincts and never stop asking questions.

“No one is ever really prepared for something like this,” she said.

“But I knew something wasn’t right, and I’m so glad I kept pushing.”

As May marks Melanoma Awareness Month, Renee hopes her story serves as a wake-up call for others to take their health seriously. Her journey has shown just how aggressive melanoma can be—and how crucial it is to act early.

She’s encouraging people to be vigilant: book regular skin checks, trust your gut when something doesn’t feel right, and push for answers if symptoms persist.

“If my story helps someone else catch it sooner, then something good can come from all of this,” she said.

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Renee (right) and her mum Trish at the Trudy Crowley Foundation, where they regularly attend support sessions. Renee’s immunotherapy is now in maintenance mode with monthly treatment and fortnightly blood tests. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

The scars left behind after Renee underwent brain surgery to remove one of the tumours, part of a life-saving operation in her fight against Stage 4 metastatic melanoma. Photo supplied

The radiation therapy brace Renee wore during targeted treatment on the remaining brain tumour was a confronting but necessary part of her complex cancer journey. Photo supplied

Renee receiving immunotherapy via drip during one of her many hospital stays. The treatment has come with serious side effects, but it remains a vital tool in her recovery. Photo supplied

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More than just a race, the 2025 BMA Mackay Triathlon Festival is a celebration of community, resilience, and giving back. Held 20–21 September at the Mackay Harbour, this iconic regional sporting event is proudly supported by naming rights sponsor BMA and the Mackay Regional Council’s Events and Attractions Fund.

This year, the festival takes a meaningful stride forward by supporting Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC), with $5 from every race entry going directly towards helping families with sick children.

Mackay Triathlon Club President Stephanie Allen said the partnership gives the event an even deeper purpose.

“Our club has been part of the community for over 38 years, and this year we’re aiming to raise $10,000 for Ronald McDonald House Charities,” she said.

“It’s not only about racing, but about rallying together to help local families in their time of need.”

Stephanie emphasised that while hosting a large-scale event brings logistical challenges, especially around traffic safety, strong community and council support has allowed the club to implement new measures, including a dedicated lane closure for cyclists.

“These changes are vital not only for the safety of our athletes, but for the long-term future of this event,” she said.

“We want Mackay to have a high-calibre triathlon right here at home, without needing to travel hours away.”

Mayor Greg Williamson praised the club’s efforts and the broader vision behind the event.

“This is exactly the kind of event our Events and Attractions Fund is designed to support,” he said.

“Last year saw athletes from across Australia, and this year we’re expecting even more, including participants from New Zealand.”

He added, “It’s a fantastic partnership, and it’s just wonderful to see everyone involved coming together for the good of the region.”

For Ronald McDonald House Charities Northern Division, the partnership is incredibly impactful.

Samantha Baker, Community Engagement Executive for RMHC Mackay and the Whitsundays said the support means everything.

“Last year, over a third of the families who stayed at our Townsville House came from Mackay,” she said.

“The funds raised through this event will directly help families in our region when they’re facing some of the hardest days of their lives.”

For Brad Walz, the impact of RMHC was life-changing. After losing one of his twin daughters during pregnancy and spending weeks in hospital with his premature baby, he said the family room gave him a safe place to rest and recharge.

“Ronald McDonald House helped us so much…It meant the world to us during a very difficult time,” he said.

With race categories for all ages and fitness levels, plus opportunities for community fundraising, the 2025 BMA Mackay Triathlon Festival promises to be a true showcase of spirit, sport, and heart within the region.

To learn more or register, visit the official Mackay Triathlon Club website: www.mackaytriclub.com.au

EVENT DETAILS:

Saturday, 20 Sept | From 1PM
• Ocean Swims – 500m, 1000m, 2000m
• Kids Triathlon – Inspiring future athletes
• Event Village – Food, stalls, and live entertainment

Sunday, 21 Sept | From 6.30AM
• Triathlon Events – Sprint, Enticer & Standard (Olympic) distances
• Duathlon, Aquabike & Aquathlon – Fun for all fitness levels

KEY DATES:

• Entries open: 1 July 2025
• Early Bird closes: 31 July 2025
• Final entries close: 4pm, Saturday 20th September

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The 2025 BMA Mackay Triathlon Festival on 20–21 Sept combines sport, community, and charity, with $5 from each entry supporting Ronald McDonald House Charities

Brad Walz. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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When the call went out for a few strong arms to help relocate cupboards and supplies from inside St Vincent de Paul to the Mackay City Girl Guides hut across the road, the Mackay Brothers Football Club stepped up without hesitation.

“There was no fuss, no bother,” said Mackay volunteer Lisa Jamieson.

“All they needed to know was, ‘when and where do you want us?’” And with that, the Brothers arrived in numbers, ready to lend their strength to a good cause.

Demonstrating teamwork and comradery both on and off the field, the Brothers set about packing utes, lifting heavy items, and relocating everything swiftly and safely to its new home at the Girl Guide Hut.

“The comradery and teamwork came to the fore,” Lisa said, as the task was tackled with smiles and good humour.

True to the old saying, “many hands make light work,” the job was done in no time thanks to the club’s collective effort and can-do attitude.

This is just one of the many quiet yet powerful acts of kindness that reflect the heart of Mackay.

“It’s this community spirit that helps make Mackay such a great place to live, work and play,” Lisa added.

“A big shout out to Mackay Brothers Football Club.

“Much appreciated Brothers!”

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Local not for profit selectability will join forces with other Mackay community services in an effort to connect those experiencing (or at risk of) homelessness with essential support.

The team will hold a stall at the Together for Shelter expo to showcase the range of services selectability provides across the Mackay community.

Regional Coordinator Nicole Guzowski said making connections at local events was important for selectability.

“Participating in events like Together for Shelter helps us to better understand local needs,’ said Nicole.

“This helps us to tailor our supports to ensure they are effective and accessible.

selectability Mackay specialises in delivering NDIS individual supports, support coordination and recovery coaching, to group programs and supported accommodation.

“Everyone deserves a place to call home that is affordable, sustainable, safe and secure.

“We work with our recipients who may be at risk of homelessness to increase their capacity and address factors that can contribute to housing problems.

“This could be through tailored group programs around topics and activities that will work for YOU, including financial management, healthy cooking on a budget, and maintaining a tenancy.”

Throughout the expo, selectability will provide information and help to link people to a range of support services.

selectability provides services through the NDIS and other funding options for those who are not.

“Our team is available during the expo to find the right service to suit your needs, you can also contact the team via our website or drop in and see the team at the Mental Health Hub on 21 River St Mackay - no referral needed.”

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A picture-perfect Saturday morning set the scene for the 10th Open Day at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens — and what a celebration it was!

The Tropical Sun Lawn came alive with colour, community and curiosity as hundreds of visitors turned out to explore plant displays, get hands-on with nature activities and soak up the sunshine in one of Mackay’s most beautiful outdoor spaces.

From up-close wildlife encounters to educational exhibits, orchid sales and native bee demonstrations, there was something to delight all ages. Children were kept entertained with creative activities and competitions, including a visit from crowd favourite Parker the Library Van. Many young explorers proudly filled out their Nature Passports, tracking down at-risk native plants and entering the draw for prizes.

The atmosphere was buzzing with joy and learning, thanks to the incredible effort of community exhibitors and council teams — especially the dedicated Botanic Gardens and nursery crews, whose passion for local flora shone brightly throughout the day.

The 10th anniversary Open Day marked a decade of inspiring conservation, education and community connection. With vibrant displays, smiling faces and plenty of leafy love, it was truly a milestone to remember.

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Photo credit: Mackay Regional Council

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Volunteers On The Frontline At Chances House

In the quiet corners of Mackay’s toughest nights, where hardship often casts a long shadow, a steadfast light burns bright. Behind every warm meal served, every hand extended in compassion, and every moment of dignity restored at Chances House stands a quiet army of dedicated volunteers. They are the heart of the mission, the pulse behind the purpose, and the reason why so many vulnerable people have somewhere to turn.

“There are so many organisations that wouldn’t exist without volunteers,” says Kayleigh Brewster, Founder and CEO of Chances House.

“We honestly couldn’t do it without them. They give their time, and we’re extremely lucky to have them.”

Chances House, Mackay’s only homelessness drop-in centre, is more than a shelter. It is a sanctuary of humanity and hope, where volunteers form the frontline of support for those living in crisis. Located at 2 Endeavour Street, this refuge offers daily meals, safe spaces to rest, healthcare assistance, case management, pet care, and vital resources like lockers, internet access, and clean clothes.

Kayleigh spoke passionately about the invaluable role these volunteers play.

“I just want to thank our volunteers for their hard work. I really can’t express my gratitude towards what they do for our community.”

The numbers tell a story of relentless dedication, with over 120,000 meals served, thousands of essential items distributed, and more than 800 nights of crisis accommodation provided.

At Chances House, every volunteer brings more than just time – they bring heart.

“Everyone’s background is valuable – especially those with lived experience or mental health understanding. Volunteers bring heart and insight to what we do,” Kayleigh adds.

Their empathy and lived knowledge allow Chances House to reach those who have often disengaged from mainstream services.

This spirit of service will be on full display next Thursday, 5th June, as Chances House participates in the Together For Shelter Expo. The event is a critical opportunity to broaden the reach of their lifeline services and connect with those who may not yet know help is available.

“It’s a really good opportunity for us to let them know we’re open, as well as what kind of services we offer,” Kayleigh explains.

“We know that people benefit from a hot meal, clean clothes, and all those essential things, so we really want to broaden our reach and make sure those who are in need can find us.”

Kayleigh’s gratitude extends to every volunteer throughout the region, spanning all organisations.

“There are many organisations that wouldn’t exist without volunteers; they play a very special role…I can’t thank them enough.”

For anyone wondering if their time, skills, or story could make a difference – Kayleigh’s message is clear: they can. And they do.

If you need their services, wish to volunteer, or want to donate, connect with the wonderful team at the Together For Shelter Expo, or reach out through their socials or website.

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At the Together For Shelter Expo, Chances House will showcase their vital services and connect with the community to expand their reach, offering hope and support to those in need. Photo source: Chances House

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May has been a significant month for Mackay, marked by substantial legislative advancements aimed at enhancing community safety and justice.

Expanding 'Adult Crime, Adult Time' Legislation

The Queensland Parliament has passed the second tranche of the 'Making Queensland Safer' laws, expanding the 'Adult Crime, Adult Time' framework. This expansion increases the number of offences subject to adult sentencing for youth offenders from 13 to 33 offences. Newly included serious offences encompass attempted murder, rape, arson, kidnapping, and trafficking in dangerous drugs. This legislative move ensures that young offenders committing grave crimes face consequences equal with the severity of their actions, reinforcing our commitment to community safety.
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Crackdown on Illegal Tobacco and Vaping Products

In response to the growing concern over illicit tobacco and vaping products, Queensland has introduced the nation's toughest on-the-spot fines. Individuals caught supplying or possessing illegal tobacco or vapes now face fines up to $32,260, while corporations can be penalised up to $161,300. Additionally, landlords who knowingly lease premises to illegal tobacco and vape traders may face fines up to $161,300 or one year in prison. These stringent measures aim to dismantle the black-market trade that endangers public health and undermines lawful businesses.

Boosting DNA Testing Capabilities

To address the backlog in forensic DNA testing, the Queensland Government has committed $50 million to expedite the processing of critical samples. This initiative involves outsourcing DNA analysis for rape kits, major crimes, and unidentified remains to accredited overseas laboratories. The move aims to reduce the current average processing time of over 440 days, ensuring timely justice for victims and reinforcing the integrity of our forensic services.

Engaging Communities on Domestic and Family Violence

On May 23, the Education, Arts and Communities Committee held a public hearing in Mackay to discuss the Domestic and Family Violence Protection and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2025. The forum provided a platform for community members, including representatives from the Mackay Regional Council and local women's services, to share insights and recommendations. This engagement is part of our broader commitment to preventing domestic and family violence and ensuring that legislative reforms are informed by those directly affected.

These initiatives reflect our unwavering dedication to making Mackay a safer place for all. By implementing tougher laws, enhancing forensic capabilities, and fostering community involvement, we are taking decisive steps to protect our citizens and uphold justice.

Nigel Dalton, Member for Mackay

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Queensland’s small and family businesses will soon benefit from a major boost in crime prevention, with the launch of a $40 million Secure Communities Partnerships Program to help protect livelihoods and restore safety across local business precincts.

Councils can apply for up to two grants worth $400,000 each to fund crime prevention measures to improve the security of business strips, including CCTV, bollards, lockable fencing, and improved perimeter security.

A total of $10 million is available to councils in the first of four rounds of funding under the program, with future rounds to be delivered over three years.

The LNP said that cost of crime for small and family businesses soared under Labor’s "soft-on-crime approach", with insurance costs skyrocketing by 79.6 per cent under the former Labor Government, making it unaffordable for many businesses to continue operating.

The Crisafulli Government says it continues to strengthen Queensland’s laws with the expansion of Adult Crime Adult Time passed in Parliament last week, giving police and the courts the powers they need to fight Labor’s Youth Crime Crisis.

Premier David Crisafulli said small and family businesses have long called for tougher action on crime, and this program delivers real support.

“We will continue to strengthen the law to ensure consequences for actions, but we will also strengthen our defences against would be criminals,” Premier Crisafulli said.

“Small and family business owners deserve to feel safe from crime, without worrying about being broken into and having their shop ransacked.

“The cost of a break-in to a small business isn’t just the value of what’s been stolen, it’s also the repairs, rising insurance and lost turnover from being closed.

“This funding will protect more livelihoods and, by bolstering security measures to stop crime before it happens, we can help restore safety where you live.”

Small and Family Business Minister Steve Minnikin said creating safe communities would allow small businesses to grow and prosper. 

“We are delivering on our Small Business First promise to create safer communities, and this initiative is a key step in fostering safer and more vibrant business areas,” Minister Minnikin said.

“By working with local councils to deliver these vital safety projects, we’re not just protecting small businesses, we’re strengthening entire communities. When small businesses feel safe, they can invest, expand, and innovate”. 

Minister for Police and Emergency Services Dan Purdie said this program was an example of the Crisafulli LNP Government’s commitment to drive down crime levels Labor left behind.

“There’s no denying the impact crime levels are having on Queensland small business owners,” Minister Purdie said.

“Infrastructure safety upgrades, like CCTV or bollards, can act as vital deterrents for would-be thieves with zero regard for the hard work of Queensland business owners.”

Round 1 is now open for applications at: www.business.qld.gov.au/securegrant

The Secure Communities Partnership Program is a key priority under the Queensland Government’s Small and Family Business First Action Statement.

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Premier David Crisafulli was in Townsville as the Secure Communities Partnership Program was activated — a $40 million commitment to help small and family businesses enhance security and deter crime. Photo supplied

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As you flip through this week’s edition, some of our team are swapping deadlines for datelines — soaking up wisdom, inspiration and (hopefully) some wins at the Queensland Country Press Association’s annual media awards and conference.

It’s a special trip for us. Last year, we had the incredible honour of being named Queensland’s Best Free Newspaper — an unforgettable achievement that still gives me tingles. We launched this paper right in the thick of Covid five years ago, with nothing but guts, passion, and a healthy dose of community spirit. After four years, we were recognised with the industry’s top award.

But that moment was deeply bittersweet. Just the day before, I had major bowel surgery to remove colon cancer. My body felt like it had been hit by a freight train. I remember staring at the ceiling, numb physically and emotionally, heavy with fear and the weight of the unknown. Then my phone lit up with a flurry of messages. We’d won.

I read them slowly, still in a daze, letting the joy and disbelief wash over me. There were tears — lots of them. It was surreal to feel such pride and celebration when my world had been so consumed by fear. But in that moment, this paper, this little community champion we built during such uncertain times, reminded me what hope lay ahead for me.

So this trip? This one’s my redemption ride. Will we bring home an award again? I’ll let you know next week... but regardless, just being here is a win in itself, in more ways than one.

Of course, I’ll be racing back home for Sunday’s Mackay Hospital Foundation Family Fun Day, proudly presented by Gardian. My little one’s counting sleeps 'til he meets Bluey, Bingo and a few Paw Patrol heroes. And let’s be honest — so am I.

Make sure you check out pages 24–29 for all the latest social snaps and event info, and don’t miss Cr Nathenea MacRae’s great wrap of the region's upcoming events on page 31.

Keep your fingers crossed for us — and thank you, always, for reading.

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Hi everyone,

I'm back after three wonderful weeks in the UK and excited to dive back into all the incredible environmental stories the Whitsundays has to offer!

This week, we're featuring new whale names, vibrant reef fish, and a special focus on World Environment Day.

As always, I’d love to hear from you! Please keep sending your environmental stories to ruth@lifepublishinggroup.com.

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Happy reading!
Ruth

“You are the last, best hope of Earth. We ask you to protect it. Or we, and all living things we cherish, are history.” –  Leonardo DiCaprio.

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The Whitsundays will take centre stage in Queensland’s tourism sustainability agenda this World Environment Day, as industry leaders, local operators and environmental champions gather to explore the future of eco-conscious tourism in one of the state’s most iconic natural settings. Local businesses and tourism operators are encouraged to book their place to attend the event on 5 June.

Hosted by the Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC), the World Environment Day event will shine a spotlight on the Whitsundays as a region leading the way in balancing environmental stewardship with vibrant visitor experiences.

QTIC CEO Natassia Wheeler said the event will highlight both the urgency and opportunity for the tourism industry to take a leading role in protecting the natural assets it depends on.

“The Whitsundays is one of Queensland’s most spectacular destinations - and it’s the perfect place to spotlight the role tourism can play in protecting what makes it so special,” Ms Wheeler said.

“This event is about learning from the region’s passionate operators, Traditional Owners and environmental leaders, and putting sustainability at the centre of how we move forward as an industry.”

The day will feature a series of thought-provoking panel discussions, local case studies and collaborative workshops, with contributions from Traditional Owner groups, the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, ecotourism operators, and regional tourism organisations. Speakers at the event include Christian Bennett, Chief Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Officer at Virgin Australia, Robbie Congoo - Owner of Yooribaya Cultural Experiences, Johnny Gaskell - Marine Biologist from the Great Barrier Reef Foundation, Nigel Greenaway - CFO at Crystalbrook Collection and Hon Amanda Camm MP.

QTIC’s World Environment Day event is part of a broader effort to embed sustainability across Queensland’s visitor economy through supporting operators to adopt climate-smart practices and celebrate the unique environments that underpin the state’s tourism appeal.

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Natassia Wheeler, CEO of QTIC

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The name Younga,  means mother in local language of the Gia and Ngaro people of the Whitsundays.

The sea people of the Whitsundays, the Ngaro People, have been watching over humpback whales while they are calving in the protection of the islands, for over 9,000 years.

The Ngaro people have a strong cultural connection to land, sea and country.  The whales have significance as totemic ancestors.  The Ngaro have creation stories that indicate the whales have been here since their creation spirits formed the islands snd people.  They would often observe humpback whales which they incorporated into song.

Younga has been sighted and identified four times over six years along the Australian East Coast by submissions to the HappyWhale database.

The sightings were

1. 29/08/2012 in Hervey Bay
2. 26/08/2015 in Gold Coast Bay
3. 30/07/2017 in the Whitsundays
4. 26/09/2018 in Gold Coast Bay

Lynne Boyce recently submitted the photo she took of the whale’s fluke near the entrance of Cid Harbour back in 2017.

This is link if you would like to follow Younga https://happywhale.com/individual/63563;enc=190308

It is never too late to submit photos to HappyWhale, so if you have any recent or old tail fluke photos please upload them to HappyWhale.  Just go to www.happywhale.com and upload your tail fluke photo.

To find out more about special whale events and information on whales in the Whitsundays, join the WHALES OF THE WHITSUNDAYS Facebook page go to https://www.whitsundaymarine.org/copy-of-home

Contributed by Kellie Leonard - Master Reef Guide/Whales of the Whitsundays.

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I recently had the opportunity to meet in Brisbane with Queensland’s new Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Brent Mickelberg MP, during a busy week in Parliament. I’m grateful he was able to make time to sit down with me to discuss several key infrastructure priorities for the Whitsundays.

We spoke at length about the long-overdue upgrades to Shute Harbour Road, including the $24 million Hamilton Plains flood immunity project and the $79 million Paluma to Tropic Road upgrade. I’m pleased to report that Hamilton Plains is expected to commence in the new financial year, with the remaining works to follow soon after.

The Bruce Highway was another major focus of our discussion. The Minister confirmed the $450 million upgrade to Goorganga Plains remains a priority for the new government—and importantly, it forms part of their planning in the lead-up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games.

I also highlighted the potential for the new Country Roads Connect program to support upgrades to key unsealed and missing link roads—particularly the Bowen Developmental Road and Suttor Developmental Road, which are vital to our rural communities and resource industries.

Another issue I raised on behalf of our community was the need for improved disaster resilience, including publicly accessible flood cameras along the Bruce Highway. The Minister was receptive, and we’ll be following up on opportunities to deliver this important safety measure.

Finally, we discussed the importance of forward planning to keep up with our rapidly growing population, ensuring our road and public transport infrastructure doesn’t continue to lag behind. I also took the chance to raise the need for stronger collaboration to unlock the economic potential of Bowen Harbour.

It’s refreshing to see a Minister genuinely willing to listen and include Council in decision-making. I’ll continue to advocate strongly—and work closely with both the state and federal governments—to deliver the infrastructure and investment our region needs and deserves.

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Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc. is proud to announce a new partnership with Green Energy
Technologies through the installation of a 13.2kW solar system at Eco HQ in the
Whitsundays.

The system will power essential components of Eco Barge’s conservation operations,
including the five quarantine turtle tanks, water pumps, and marine debris recycling
machinery in the Ocean Trash Recycle Shack — allowing Eco HQ to run almost entirely
on clean, renewable energy. This upgrade represents a major milestone in Eco Barge’s
mission to be truly eco-efficient and demonstrate sustainability in action.

“This is more than just solar panels on a roof,” said Libby Edge, Founder of Eco Barge.
“Every day, we do our best to care for our local environment, so being able to harness
renewable energy to power our turtle tanks, recycling machinery, and all our work at
Eco HQ feels like a true gift — from both Green Energy and Mother Nature. It’s the
perfect extension of our commitment to protecting the environment in every way we
can.”

Green Energy Technologies has provided not only top-tier solar technology and
installation but also their exclusive GET360 Guarantee, which ensures long-term
savings, system service, and performance monitoring for 10 years—all covered at no
cost to Eco Barge. This ongoing contribution empowers Eco Barge to operate
sustainably for years to come in partnership with Green Energy. Through their GET
Capital Support Package, Green Energy also reduced the total cost to zero, making this
an incredibly generous contribution to both Eco HQ and the Whitsunday community.

"We're excited to be supporting one of the most important eco-friendly not-for-profit
businesses in the Whitsundays, they're work is vital in protecting our unique and
spectacular ecosystems." Said Kon Flaherty, CEO Green Energy Technologies.

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An Airlie Beach woman’s lunch break took an unexpected turn after she opened her phone and discovered she’d won $100,000 in today’s Lucky Lotteries draw, leaving her lost for words.

The Whitsunday resident held the 1st Prize winning entry in Lucky Lotteries Super Jackpot draw 10988, drawn on Tuesday 27 May 2025. She is now looking forward to receiving a total prize of $100,000.

"Woo-hoo! That’s unbelievable!” she cheered when an official from The Lott confirmed her win.

“I’m on lunch break right now, and when I opened my phone and saw I had multiple missed calls, texts, and an email from The Lott. I thought to myself, ‘What the heck is going on?’.

“Now I’m here and you’re telling me I won $100,000! I’m in complete shock right now.

“I usually enter other lottery games, but something told me to give Lucky Lotteries a go.

“I don’t know what to even say right now. All I can think is that it’s going to be a huge help.

“I’m not entirely sure what we’ll do with the money just yet, but I’d love to get a new car.

“I can’t wait to surprise my husband tonight. I don’t think he’ll believe me.”

Her winning entry of ten random numbers was purchased via The Lott app, the official home of Australia’s lotteries.

The Lucky Lotteries Mega Jackpot prize is currently $6.04 million for draw 1703, while the Lucky Lotteries Super Jackpot stands at $19.35 million for draw 10989.

In 2024, 147 Lucky Lotteries 1st Prize and Jackpot-winning entries across Australia shared in more than $52.2 million in prize money.

The Lott is the official operator of Australia’s leading lottery games, offering chances to win every day. In 2024, more than 195.3 million winners took home over $4.84 billion in prize money from games including Saturday Gold Lotto, Weekday Windfall, Powerball, Oz Lotto, Set for Life, Lucky Lotteries, Keno (SA), Super 66, Lotto Strike, and Instant Scratch-Its.

Last financial year, Australia’s official lotteries contributed more than $1.8 billion to state governments through taxes and donations, supporting vital community initiatives such as hospitals, health research, disaster relief, and education.

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Airlie Beach woman scores big in Lottery

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