Zoe Kennedy – Financial Adviser

The calendar has flipped and the new financial year has officially begun. But while many people are looking backward as they finalise their tax returns, the new financial year presents the perfect opportunity to reset, refocus, and take control of your financial future.

Whether you’re starting from scratch or simply refining your finances, here are some powerful money moves you can make this July to set yourself up for a stronger, wealthier year ahead.

Review and Reset Your Budget

Your income, expenses, and goals may have shifted over the past year, and your budget should reflect that. Understanding what you earn and how much you spend is the cornerstone of any good financial plan. Without this clarity, it’s easy to feel like your money disappears without knowing where it went, or to wonder why you’re not making progress despite earning a decent income.

The start of the financial year is the perfect time to sit down and create or revisit your budget.

Budgets aren’t about restriction; they’re about intention. Done right, a budget helps you spend without guilt, save with purpose, and build the future you want. Use this time to realign your money with your goals and objectives.

Set or Revisit Your Goals

The start of a new financial year is also the halfway point of the calendar year, making it the perfect time to check in with your goals. Are you on track? Have your priorities changed?

If you haven’t set any yet, now’s the time. Vague goals like “save more money” are a great intention, but they don’t give you a roadmap. Instead, make your goals specific and actionable.

Write them down and track your progress regularly. You don’t need to be perfect; you just need to be consistent. Remember, progress builds momentum — and momentum builds motivation.

Check Your Superannuation

From 1 July 2025, the compulsory superannuation guarantee (SG) rate increased from 11.5% to 12%. While this is a win for retirement savings, it could impact individuals in different ways.

If your total super contributions are nearing the annual concessional cap of $30,000, this increase could push you over the limit, potentially resulting in extra tax.

If you're on a total remuneration package, the SG increase may mean less take-home pay, as your employer adjusts the super component within your overall salary.

Super contributions are calculated across the entire financial year, so now is the perfect time to review your contribution strategy, take advantage of any available incentives, and ensure your structure still aligns with your goals and tax position.

Review Your Insurances and Estate Planning

While the new financial year is a great time to reset your budget and goals, it’s equally important to review your personal protection. True financial wellbeing isn’t only about growing wealth but also safeguarding it.

Take the time to review your insurance policies, both inside and outside of super. Are your policies still relevant to your current stage of life, income, and family needs?

If you’ve had any major life changes — like a new job, new house, partner, or child — your insurance needs have likely changed too.

Also, check your estate planning documents. Ensure your will, power of attorney, and superannuation beneficiaries are up to date and clearly reflect your wishes. It’s not the most exciting task, but it’s one of the most important gifts you can leave for your loved ones.

Protecting your future isn’t about expecting the worst but being prepared, so that you and your loved ones can move forward with confidence — no matter what life brings.

Financial years, like calendar years, give us a fresh page — but instead of resolutions, they offer real opportunities for growth. If you’re not sure where to start, a financial health check with a trusted adviser can help.

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The National Fire Ant Eradication Program has confirmed a detection of fire ants in Moranbah — marking the pest’s arrival in the greater Mackay region and signalling a serious biosecurity threat to Central Queensland.

On 9 July 2025, program officers responded rapidly to the detection at BHP Mitsubishi Alliance’s Broadmeadow Coal Mine site, destroying fire ant nests using direct nest injection treatment.

This detection has triggered an urgent response, with eradication officers set to carry out intensive surveillance and broadscale treatment across the area to ensure any remaining ants are eradicated.

Moranbah falls within the Burdekin state government electorate, placing this detection uncomfortably close to areas that had, until now, avoided the spread from South East Queensland.

Michael Homden, Executive Program Director of the National Fire Ant Eradication Program, said cooperation with local industry was key.

“The National Fire Ant Eradication Program is working closely with BHP Mitsubishi Alliance to contain, treat, and eradicate this significant detection swiftly,” he said.
“This detection is a strong reminder that community and industry vigilance can, and does, stop the spread of fire ants.
“Eradicating fire ants is a shared community responsibility – and BHP’s cooperation demonstrates how industry partners contribute to this critical national effort.”

Tracing and genetic testing are currently underway to determine how the ants arrived in Moranbah — which sits well outside the South East Queensland eradication zone.

The spread underscores the risk posed by the movement of materials like soil, mulch, quarry products and machinery from fire ant biosecurity zones. Businesses must ensure they comply with legal obligations when moving such materials. Breaches may result in regulatory action.

Residents and businesses alike are urged to remain vigilant. Learn to identify fire ants and their nests, and report any sightings online at fireants.org.au or by calling 13 22 68.

Eradicating fire ants is a national priority — and now it’s right on our doorstep. It will take all of us to stop the spread.

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Community Power Drives New Firetruck For Habana Brigade

Habana Rural Fire Brigade has proudly unveiled its brand-new Quick Response Firetruck, a major milestone made possible through years of planning, saving, and strong community support.

The locally driven initiative began when the brigade recognised the urgent need for a faster, more agile emergency vehicle, one that could get “straight out the door and first to the fire.”

Rather than wait for funding, the brigade began saving its fire levies, collected through Council rates over several years. When the right cab chassis became available, they seized the opportunity and purchased it, laying the foundation for their custom-built truck.

The specialist fit-out was completed by Varley Group, renowned builders of emergency vehicles and equipment, engineered to meet the Rural Fire Service Queensland’s exacting standards. Brigade officers made multiple visits to ensure every detail met operational requirements.

Of course, more funds were needed to bring the vision to life. Determined not to let cost stand in the way, members tirelessly applied for grants, sought donations, and held their breath as the results rolled in.

Now, the truck is here – and it’s already been put to work. On a recent 5am call-out, it was out the door in moments. Unlike larger trucks that require a licensed truck driver and full crew, this Quick Response unit allows trained responders to attend incidents immediately, making all the difference in the critical early stages of a fire.

Being first to the fire can stop it from taking hold – or allow crews to call for backup early if it’s spreading fast. And because it’s smaller, this truck can access tighter spots many larger trucks can’t.

The community is invited to view the truck up close at the brigade’s Open Day on Saturday 19 July from 10am to 4pm, at 978 Yakapari-Habana Road, Habana.

The brigade extends heartfelt thanks to the many generous donors who helped make this achievement possible:

Major Supporters:
• Habana Community (Fire Levy contributions)
• Gambling Community Benefit Fund Qld
• Daly Bay
• G-Mech
• ADN Testing Services
• ISS First Response
• Rural Fire Service Queensland
• David Stewart
• June Critchley (Symons)
• Bob Clutton & Lynne Bryant
• Pauly’s Security Service
• Mackay Sugar
• Savage Industries
• Jack, Rachel & Wayne Roberts
• Winifred Manning

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Habana Rural Fire Brigade will proudly showcase its new Quick Response Firetruck at a special community Open Day this Saturday, 19 July, celebrating local generosity and years of dedicated effort from volunteers and supporters. Photo supplied

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Supporting Sustainable Farming And Cleaner Waterways

Reef Catchments (Mackay Whitsunday Isaac) is launching the Proserpine Integrated Project (PIP), which brings together seven initiatives tailored to the unique characteristics of this region. The project focuses on improving water quality through practical, place-based solutions that balance environmental, social, and economic factors.

The PIP is part of the Queensland Government’s investment of over $5.5 million through the Queensland Reef Water Quality Program’s place-based projects across the Great Barrier Reef Catchment and will run until May 2027.

Reef Catchments’ Sustainable Agriculture Manager, Todd McNeill, explained: “This project takes a whole-system approach, combining innovation and sustainable farming practices to protect our waterways and support local communities. It’s about working with landholders, industry, and researchers to find practical ways to reduce harmful pollutants while also improving farm productivity and resilience.”

_The seven PIP sub-projects include:

Harnessing water quality improvement through circular economy approaches led by the aquaculture industry. Project Lead: Tassal Group

Proserpine Catchment Sustainability Plan – using a whole-of-system, values-based framework. Project Lead: Alluvium Consulting

Catchment Treatment Systems. Project Lead: Reef Catchments Limited

Reducing pesticide use using AI (AutoWeed). Project Lead: James Cook University (JCU)

Supporting practice change to reduce water quality risk. Project Lead: Reef Catchments

Circularity Material Flows Analysis. Project Lead: Pitt & Sherry

Supporting investment in Natural Capital. Project Lead: Truii Pty Ltd_

Each initiative addresses a different part of the catchment’s water quality challenges — from innovative seaweed biofiltration and AI technology to on-farm chemical management and circular economy practices. The project also aims to raise awareness in the community and build capacity for long-term sustainable land and water management.

McNeill added, “Each project aims to support improved land management practices and catchment condition, with benefits for water quality across the region’s waterways, wetlands, and ecosystems connected to the Great Barrier Reef.”

Benefits for Regional Agriculture

Agricultural producers participating in the project will gain access to expert advice, cutting-edge trials using the latest AI technologies, and tools to boost productivity while contributing to important environmental outcomes.

By integrating scientific, cultural, and economic knowledge, the Proserpine Integrated Project will create lasting value for the local landscape and the people who depend on it.

Program Director for Reef Catchments, Bernie Cockayne, said: “This is a real opportunity to tailor solutions for this region. We're working hand-in-hand with local landholders, industry, and research partners to improve water quality while supporting long-term social and economic outcomes.”

For news and information about the Proserpine Integrated Project and other Sustainable Agriculture projects, visit
www.reefcatchments.com.au/projects/sustainable-agriculture

Healthy soils are the foundation of productive farming, supporting crop growth, water retention, and long-term sustainability. Photo credit: Reef Catchments

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Central’s Crushing Reality

We are now well past the first month into the 2025 crushing season in the Central District, with millers reporting reasonable factory operations, albeit plagued by wet conditions and other adverse impacts.

Mackay Sugar Limited, as of 6 July, was at 8 per cent of its 5.15Mt estimate, leaving around 4.75Mt to crush. The miller is predicting, on current estimates, that the season will end—dependent on the usual myriad of factors, including weather—around 5 December. The current throughput for the season at the same date is 413,799 tonnes, with a season-to-date CCS of 11.4.

Proserpine Mill has crushed 179,640 tonnes of its 1.58Mt estimate at the end of its fourth week on 12 July, with a season-to-date CCS of a healthy 13.02. Again, inclement weather has had an impact on the start, and weather conditions have not been conducive to drying the ground.

The Plane Creek Mill area has also had weather impacting operations, as well as recent operations being impacted by key personnel illness. At the end of week 6 (12 July), the season-to-date CCS was 12, with 219,249 tonnes crushed of its 1.6Mt season estimate.
Standover is being factored into all three areas, and the challenge will be to get the significant tonnage through the mills to ensure a clean slate for cane growers to achieve a sense of normalcy around the 2026 season and mitigate the ongoing issues of out-of-cycle growing patterns and standover.

QCAR Central District Manager Sonia Ball and the QCAR Central District Committee have proudly supported the regional shows in the region, with the Sarina Show the final to be held on the weekend of August 2 and 3.

The Central District Committee is also supporting other regional events in each of the three regions that make up the Central District.

QCAR has initiated meetings with some Mackay Regional Council councillors to discuss issues that relate to local government and have an impact on agriculture—and specifically cane growing—including rates, land acquisitions and feral pests and weeds.
This week, QCAR will attend the Mackay Sugar annual general meeting, meet with Federal Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry, and attend the annual 2025 Mackay Show Cane Awards.

QCAR also met recently in person with Agri Labour Australia’s Senior Business Development Manager, Kellie Colvin, and Gus Saunders, Agri Labour’s Health and Safety Manager.

Networking with Agri Labour is a key strategy for QCAR and the agricultural sector to fill the labour gap with experienced and skilled workers.

Anyone having any issues retaining a reliable worker has Agri Labour as an option. To contact Agri Labour for further information, call 0461 598 900 or visit www.agrilabour.com.au to see available applicants.

Finally, QCAR would like to remind everyone to put safety first while we collectively make tracks to the end of the 2025 crushing season – farm safe, home safe.

QCAR Central District Manager Sonia Ball

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QCAR Central District Committee member Bryce Jackson and Chairman Steve McKeering caught up recently with Mackay Regional Council councillors to discuss a variety of issues that impact cane farmers in the Mackay Regional Council electorate

QCAR Central District Manager Sonia Ball, right, met with Agri Labour Australia’s Senior Business Development Manager Kellie Colvin, centre, and Health and Safety Manager Gus Saunders, left, to discuss labour options for the sugar industry in the Central District

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By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

Prime planting time is almost here for growers, and after the challenges of a wet start to winter, it’s important to make time for getting clean seed planting material.

The beginning of the crush has been very much a stop/start affair due to the consistent rainfall events which the majority of the district have been experiencing over the first month of the crushing season.
Paddock conditions vary by the locality, but the general rule is that they are very wet to moist, at the time of writing. We require some substantial periods of prolonged sunshine to help dry out the district to improve harvesting conditions.  CCS (sugar content) has been slightly up on previous years however the stand over cane is very much a mixed bag.

Across both Mackay and Plane Creek milling areas we are dealing with a lot of cane that remained uncut in 2024: standover cane. Being older, the CCS can be iffy, and it is often harder for the mill to process.
One of the other effects which this rainy June-July has had on growers is that very little early planting was achieved. Wet field conditions have narrowed the planting window period. Even with this situation occurring, and the compressing of the planting timeframe, growers make use of several important tasks which are essential at this time of year, prior to planting.

Firstly, we are fortunate in the Mackay and Plane Creek region to have very low levels of Ratoon Stunting Disease (RSD). This debilitating sugar cane disease can have catastrophic impacts on productivity and farm viability. Unfortunately, this disease is rampant in some other areas of the state.

Our low levels of RSD in this region is primarily due to the terrific work which the local productivity boards - Mackay Area Productivity Services and Plane Creek Productivity Services - perform in inspecting and testing seed cane sources before planting has commenced.  Growers are reminded of the importance of this critical step in the planting process.

Growers are given the opportunity to receive clean seed and new varieties from their local productivity board clean seed plot.  Not only does this help in the prevention of disease, but trials have indicated significant productivity gains are to be achieved by continually updating your planting material from these seed plots.
Whilst it is a very time-consuming and, at times, a painstaking process to go and collect and plant this clean seed, the benefits far outweigh the negatives and growers are reminded not to forget about his invaluable process during this hectic time of the year.

Finally, to help control the spread of Ratoon Stunting Disease, growers, harvesting contractors and planting contractors are reminded of machinery sterilisation procedures which are quite simple but effective in mitigating the spread of infection of this devastating disease.

Prevention is always better than the cure, for the hip pocket and for sustainability.

If we all work together on this, we can certainly maintain the low infection rates across our region.

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Some of the crew taking billets back to the sampling station, while walking each row to check for RSD. Photo credit: MAPS

Productivity services work hard to prevent RSD

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Mackay Unites For NAIDOC 2025

A record-breaking crowd gathered at Queens Park last Friday to mark the 50th anniversary of NAIDOC celebrations in Mackay, with this year’s Family Fun Day hailed as one of the most powerful yet.

With the event held during school holidays, families turned out in force to celebrate the 2025 theme Next Generation: Strength, Vision and Legacy. Mayor Greg Williamson described the turnout as “wonderful,” praising the contributions of youth performers and cultural dancers.

Cr Alison Jones said, “I felt a sense of pride and belonging in this region... as a multicultural community we came together to recognise our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.”

A representative from Yuwi Aboriginal Corporation added, “Our hearts are full... the beat of the drum, the clap of the sticks, the laughter of children and the power of dance.”

The annual NAIDOC march and festival continue to grow as cornerstones of cultural pride in Mackay.

Find the social pics here: https://tinyurl.com/29rbkrpr

A heartfelt Christmas in July event hosted by disability support group SNAGS brought smiles, music, and mid-year cheer to nearly 90 participants and support workers in Mackay last Saturday.

“We received a donation from the Rotary a few weeks back, so we planned on what we could do with the donation, which became Christmas in July,” said the group’s organiser Rainelle Peterstorfer.

With the support of Sally’s Curry Hut, who donated their time and cooked the meal, the SNAGS team brought the celebration to life with care and dedication.

“We crazily started organising presents and wrapping and got it sorted within about 10 days… and it turned out really amazing,” Rainelle said.

SNAGS, co-run by Rainelle Peterstorfer and Kathryn Andrews, is a not-for-profit volunteer-run group that brings people with disabilities, families, and support workers together for regular karaoke nights full of fun, laughter, and a whole lot of dancing and singing.

To support SNAGS, email snags.mackay@outlook.com or visit their Facebook page to purchase merch.

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A joyful Christmas in July event hosted by SNAGS brought nearly 90 people together for music, gifts, and a free lunch. Photo source: SNAGS Karaoke Mackay (Facebook)

Test Flight Of Bowen's Eris Rocket Delayed

FRONT

Australia’s first private orbital rocket launch has been postponed again, with Gilmour Space Technologies confirming the Eris rocket will now lift off no earlier than July 27.

The delay follows operational setbacks and upper wind forecasts that ruled out a safe launch during the original July 16–20 window. The Gold Coast-based company announced the change in a social media update, saying they were “standing down from this week’s launch window” and shifting to the next opportunity.

The Eris rocket is a first-of-its-kind orbital launch vehicle developed entirely in Australia and is set to launch from the Bowen Orbital Spaceport in north Queensland. The team continues working through weather checks, range assessments, and final system reviews in coordination with national agencies including CASA, the Australian Space Agency, and Airservices.

“Rocket launches are complex,” Gilmour Space stated. “Delays are normal, especially for a first-of-its-kind testflight.”

One Small Step Back For Launch Day

Australia’s first private orbital rocket launch has been delayed again, with the test flight of the Eris rocket now scheduled for no earlier than July 27.

The updated target comes after operational delays set the team back by a day, and the latest upper wind forecasts ruled out a safe launch within the original window of July 16 to 20. Gilmour Space Technologies, the Gold Coast-based company behind the mission, announced the change in a social media update, stating they were “standing down from this week’s launch window,” and shifting focus to the next opportunity.

The adjustment comes as part of final preparations by Gilmour Space, which is behind the ambitious mission. The Eris rocket is a first-of-its-kind orbital launch vehicle developed entirely on Australian soil—and while excitement builds, the company is taking a cautious approach.

“Rocket launches are complex,” a Gilmour Space spokesperson stated on their Facebook page. “Delays are normal, especially for a first-of-its-kind testflight.”

The team is working through a series of weather assessments, range checks, and final system “go/no-go” reviews. Coordination with regulatory bodies and safety authorities is also a crucial part of the process. This includes the Australian Space Agency, CASA (Civil Aviation Safety Authority), Airservices Australia, and maritime agencies.

"We're carefully working through weather, range checks, final system go/no‑go reviews, and coordinating with the Australian Space Agency, CASA, Airservices, maritime authorities, and others," the spokesperson explained.

The Eris rocket represents a new era for Australia’s growing space industry. Designed and built by Gilmour Space, it’s intended to carry small satellites into low Earth orbit, offering an Australian solution to a rapidly growing global demand.

Despite the delay, enthusiasm remains high. Space industry supporters, science enthusiasts, and local communities—particularly in north Queensland—are eagerly watching as the countdown continues. The launch will take place from the company’s Bowen Orbital Spaceport, near the coastal town of Bowen in the Whitsundays.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said the proposed rocket launch was exciting for Bowen, the entire Whitsundays region, all of Queensland and the Nation.

“While we understand there has been delays, we are confident the rocket launches will be a great attraction for our region going forward," she said.

“This is rocket science – so delays are part of what happens – but we are so pleased that Gilmour Space Technologies chose Bowen as their launch pad.”

For those keen to follow along, Gilmour Space is providing real-time updates on the launch window via their mission page at gspace.com/missions. But for those who’d rather wait until the rocket’s in the sky, the company says they’ll also be sharing full launch coverage and results after the fact.

The launch is expected to be a major step toward establishing a sovereign space capability in Australia, something space experts say is critical for national innovation, security, and economic growth.

The company also shared a scenic image of the launch site, captured by a staff member in Bowen, to highlight the unique location from which Australia’s space ambitions are taking off.

With final checks underway and eyes on the weather, the countdown to lift-off continues—now tracking for July 27.

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Launch date gets pushed back. Photo Credit: Steven Holden - Gilmour Space Technologies.

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Hi Everyone,

Exciting news! The latest issue of Core Life and Tripping Magazine is hitting the stands this weekend—so keep an eye out for the brand-new edition.

A huge thank you to our incredible team for creating yet another amazing magazine—an impressive 116 pages of blood, sweat, and passion!

Speaking of blood and sweat, in this edition of Core Life, you can read about my Metabolic Diet journey with local nutritionist Bec Tarver.

Together with my husband, I spent a month with no sugar, no carbs, and no alcohol (okay, the no alcohol part may have only lasted two weeks!)— but we both experienced miraculous results.

During the challenge, our diets were scientifically tailored based on our blood test results, showing exactly what our bodies needed for optimal fuel. We also had to cut out snacking, eat only every five hours, and prepare each meal with precisely measured ingredients.

It was exciting, gruelling at times, but ultimately incredibly rewarding. I now feel better than I have in years—full of energy, healthy, and no more bloating!

You can read the full story in Core Life Magazine in my feature, “Bye-Bye Mum-Bod.”

In other exciting news, Core Life and Tripping Magazine has now doubled its coverage in Townsville, following our expansion into Hinchinbrook and Burdekin earlier this year.

There’s clearly a strong demand for a quality lifestyle and travel publication in regional areas—and now, with a growing gap in the Townsville market, we’re eager to meet that demand too.

This means that when you advertise in Core Life or Tripping Magazine, your business will now reach audiences from Cardwell in the north to Sarina in the south, as well as your existing local markets.

It’s a major step forward, and we’re thrilled to bring local businesses along with us. If you’d like to book an ad in Core Life or Tripping, please reach out to your local Sales Manager, Trish Jandt—her number is listed on the left-hand side of this page.

Rach

Quote of the Week: "Happiness is having better problems. Success is having better failures. Discipline is having better addictions" (Mark Manson)

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No one knows a stringed instrument quite like Roger Buckmaster. For 60 years, strings have been his profession, from crafting violins to selling handcrafted banjos through a shop in Nashville. Now retired, Roger has been pulling on the heartstrings of the community by freely restoring cherished stringed instruments for those in need.

Now 81, Roger has spent a lifetime making and repairing violins, banjos and guitars. Trained in London, and originally from Loughborough, Roger has travelled across Australia helping schools, orchestras and musicians keep their instruments alive and well.

"I used to service all the orchestras and many schools. I had 200 schools on my books at one stage," he said. "We just went everywhere."

From Alice Springs to the Whitsundays, Roger’s generosity has struck a chord. His custom guitars and violins have been displayed in the Powerhouse Museum in Sydney, and one of his banjos even lives in a museum in Oklahoma.

"I must have donated them two dozen instruments from different makers... mainly from Australia, right back into the 20s and 30s."

While many have admired his work, one famous fan stands out.

"Rod Stewart wanted to buy one of my guitars and his manager said to me, name your price. But I said I hadn’t got one. It had already been sent to the Powerhouse Museum."

Currently travelling between Bowen, Burdekin, and Airlie Beach, Roger continues to offer his expertise to anyone in need, simply out of goodwill.

"Everyone knows where to find me. I can meet them at different places... they can always contact me."

From museum collections to helping out locals with beloved instruments, Roger’s kindness is music to the community’s ears.

If you need a stringed instrument serviced, Roger is available over the next month and is kindly happy to help. You can reach him directly on 0419 549 841.

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Rogers guitar that Rod Stewart wanted now in Sydney Powerhouse museum.

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Family Thank Community For Support As Local Dad Faces Fight Of His Life

A local family is facing one of the most challenging times of their lives, but their battle has been buoyed by an incredible wave of community support.

In February 2024, Brad Lindsay was diagnosed with Testicular Lymphoma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer. He spent the next nine months undergoing intensive chemotherapy and radiation, and by October 2024, he was considered in remission.

Tragically, several weeks ago, while at work, Brad suffered a seizure while driving and crashed his vehicle. A CT scan revealed that his cancer had returned, this time spreading to his brain. Devastatingly, Brad’s diagnosis was confirmed as Testicular Lymphoma Stage 4 Central Nervous System (CNS) Brain Cancer.

Due to the complexity of his condition, Brad will now undergo further chemotherapy, as well as an immunotherapy called CAR T-cell therapy — a highly specialised treatment that offers him the best chance of fighting the disease.

Brad has now moved to Townsville for treatment, and his loving wife Nikki has not left his side, becoming his full-time carer. Unfortunately, they have both had to give up their employment, and with Brad having used all his leave entitlements during last year’s battle, the financial stress has become a reality.

Brad and Nikki remain as positive as possible and are deeply grateful for the kind words of support and invaluable financial donations made through their GoFundMe page.

“I cannot describe the emotion that I personally have felt over the last couple of days from the outpouring of financial support you have all given,” shared Nikki on the GoFundMe page.

“It is extremely overwhelming for me to accept, but I am feeling very grateful and humbled to receive help from you all.

“This is a really hard time for our family, and it just amazes me that there are people we don’t even know who have donated to us.

“To every single one of you, please know that I am forever grateful for your support to help us through this devastating time.”

Friend of the family and GoFundMe organiser Ella Griffiths said, “If you’re able to donate, no matter the amount, your support will greatly help in reducing the financial stress they are facing.

“Brad and Nikki are kind, humble people who’ve always given so much to others — and now they need our help. Please help us to help them.”

https://gofund.me/a4ff126a

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Brad and Niki in happier times
Brad is going through the toughest battle of his life, but the community can help ease the financial burden at this difficult time
Brad and Niki with their family

Photos supplied

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The twelfth annual Smart Arts Exhibition, will open this Friday 18 July and it will be showcasing art work from local artists of Cannonvale Smart Arts.

A special feature of this year’s event will be an auction of pieces from the exhibition’s African-themed section, with all proceeds going to Aid for Africa Down Under AFADU).

The works will be judged by renowned artist Carol Bell, with the live auction to follow, conducted by Brad Sobott of Taylors Property Specialists.

Suzi Hancock, founder of Smart Arts, has long supported AFADU, a registered charity that has been helping children in Zimbabwe for over two decades. AFADU funds the Lirhanzo Children’s Village, which cares for orphans affected by HIV/AIDS in the remote and disadvantaged Zimbabwe.

Cannonvale artist Pammie Harrison, who has served on the AFADU board since 2009 and has made nine visits to the village, praised Suzi’s commitment.

“I am elated that the ever generous, Suzi, a sponsor of orphans at the children’s Village for many years has come up with this fabulous way to raise money for the children’s on-going education,” she said.

More than 80 original artworks will be on display and available for purchase during the week-long exhibition. Two standout pieces in the auction include Mzimba (Rhino) and Chimp My Ride.

The opening night kicks off at 6pm on Friday 18 July at Smart Arts Studio, 8 Commerce Close, Cannonvale.

Tickets are $10, which includes wine and nibbles. The exhibit is on display for one week only

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The Smart Arts Exhibition opens Friday 18 July, and will be on display for one week only. Artwork supplied

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The Whitsunday Regional Council’s public consultation regarding Short Term Accommodation closes this weekend Sunday 20 July 2025.

Open from 11 June Council has asked the community to ‘Have your say” relating to Council’s scheme.

The Whitsunday Regional Council announced change to the Whitsunday Planning Scheme 2017 following resident's concerns that short term accommodation was conflicting with the availability of housing for long-term residents.

Council said that the changes were to help better manage short-term accommodation, within the Low Density Residential zone, hoping to  find the right balance between supporting tourism and protecting residential amenity and housing supply for locals.

Council had identified 10 precincts in which Short Term Accommodation would be allowed and supported, these included Shute Harbour, Brisk Bay, Dingo Beach, Hydeaway Bay, Conway Beach, Wilson Beach, parts of Airlie Beach, North Mandalay, and Bowen, Queens Beach, Grays Bay and Horseshoe Bay.

The recent changes will not change the following:
• Home based businesses - e.g. letting a room alongside permanent residents living in the home.
• STA within the Low-medium density residential zone or other non-residential zones where it is currently permitted, subject to requirements
• STA that already have planning approval in any zone.

Council is seeking public consultation on the new amendment.

You can have your say until Sunday 20 July, when council close the ‘Have your say’ and begin consideration.

• Online via a registered account on Yoursay - via the online survey below
• In writing to Council, by mail or in person to a Customer Service Centre
• Email to planning.submissions@whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au, including the name and address of each person who is making the submission.

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Accomodation in Airlie Beach. Stock image

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The Airport: More Than A Gateway

It’s fantastic to see Whitsunday Coast Airport (WCA) reaching new heights and truly flying high. In the past year, we welcomed over 522,000 passengers, smashing our previous record and cementing WCA as one of Australia’s top regional gateways.

But this milestone is about much more than numbers. The airport is a powerful driver of our regional economy, creating local jobs, opening doors for small businesses, and strengthening our tourism and hospitality sectors. It also means better connectivity for everyone, whether you are a business owner, a worker, or visiting family and friends.

This success highlights the Whitsundays’ incredible appeal, not just as a holiday destination but as a vibrant, thriving place to live, work, and build a future.

Whitsunday Coast Airport is a fully self-funded, Council-owned asset that operates without ratepayer subsidies. It delivers strong financial returns, which are reinvested into essential services and infrastructure to keep our region moving forward. Every dollar of profit supports projects that make the Whitsundays an even better place for all of us.

This record-breaking year is a win for our economy, our tourism industry, and our entire community. I want to thank our dedicated airport team, airline partners, and of course, all of you who continue to support this vital part of our region.

Beyond passenger numbers, our team remains focused on providing a seamless, high-quality experience for everyone, whether they are heading on holiday or returning home. Our steady growth from 280,000 passengers in 2021 to over 522,000 today shows what we can achieve with careful planning, smart investment, and strong community support.

Importantly, the airport is much more than a tourism hub. It supports business travel and freight services, keeping our region connected and competitive, and stands as a true symbol of how strategic investment can drive economic growth and strengthen our community for years to come.

As part of this forward focus, I’m also excited to share that the airport has joined the Containers for Change program. By collecting and recycling eligible drink containers, the airport and other Council business units are expected to raise around $80,000 each year.

This isn’t just about recycling, it’s about turning small actions into big community benefits. We’re exploring options to direct these funds to local non-profits, sporting clubs, and grassroots groups across Airlie Beach, Proserpine, Bowen, and Collinsville.

Partnering with a Bowen-based contractor keeps jobs and expertise local, backing our businesses and delivering practical environmental outcomes.

Additionally, our airport is part of pioneering efforts to trial sustainable aviation fuel through Virgin Australia’s partnership with Viva Energy that helps reduce emissions and keeps us at the forefront of industry change.

When I reflect on these milestones, I’m reminded that our airport is more than a gateway. It’s an engine for economic growth, environmental progress, and community pride.

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