We have been recording whale songs and social noises in the Whitsundays for the last two whale seasons.  Last week I wrote about why we are recording them and about the songs.

The way we record them is using a hydrophone, which is an underwater microphone, connected to an amplifier and a recording device.

We can record humpback whales 5 to 10 kilometers away, so we don’t have to see whales, to record them.   A whale song lasts around 30 minutes and then it is repeated over and over.  The fittest whales sing the longest, so it is thought it is a way to attract a female to mate, so she will choose the one with the best genes.

We try to record for at least 30 minutes in an attempt to capture the entire song.  Because it is constantly repeated, it doesn’t matter what section we start recording it.

Often when I start the recording there are no whales in sight.   I have the engine off with the motor tilted out of the water, hold the hydrophone cable away from the hull, and try to be in a sheltered spot to avoid water splashing against the hull of the boat. Calm days are best for recording to avoid interference.   The hydrophone is extremely sensitive and picks up boat engine noises from over 10 kilometers away, as well as wind, waves, anchor chains and mooring creaking.

Even though I can only hear whales when I start recording, usually by the time I have finished multiple pods of whales have passed me, usually single mother and calf pairs.  I have had many more close encounters with whales, when I have been stationary with the motor cut to record, than when cruising around in the boat.

Humpback songs generally range from 30Hz to 15Hz.  We use a Zoom recorder and capture in WAV format.  The WAV format audio files can be analysed visually using special software to view the audio files as a spectrogram.  We upload our recordings to the University of Queensland Cetacean Ecology Group’s research data management system, where Professor Michael Noad is the director of the Centre of Marine science and Genevieve Willians is PhD Candidate.

The image below is the spectrogram of a whale song, so we can view the audio of a song.  The songs consist of a series of themes repeated in a particular order, then repeated from the start.  Within the themes are individual units joint together to form phrases.

This year we also plan to work with Dr Olaf Meynecke from Griffith University’s Whales and Climate program who is also researching acoustic whale sounds.  The traditional methods have only captured whale sounds during daylight hours.  Dr Olaf has started deploying longer term hydrophones which capture sound 24/7.  Initially the focus will be when, where and what time of day or night whales are making noises or not making noises. Monitoring the sounds and songs of humpbacks is a helpful indicator of ecosystem health.  It can help scientists understand migration activity, patterns, mating calls and competitive behavior.

For more information and to listen to a whale song please go to the Whales of the Whitsundays Facebook page.

Contributed with thanks to Whales of the Whitsundays.

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Image credit: Spectrogram of a humpback whale song, Danielle Cholewiak, NOAA/NMFS.
Basic hydrophone recording kit, consisting of a hydrophone, amplifier and zoom recorder

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Schools across the region wrapped up the term in festive style with vibrant Easter Bonnet Parades, bringing a joyful splash of colour and creativity to classrooms and playgrounds.

Students proudly paraded their handmade bonnets, each one a unique expression of imagination and artistic flair. From bold colours to whimsical designs, the bonnets reflected the excitement of Easter and the spirit of celebration that marks the end of term.

The parades have become a cherished tradition in many schools, offering students a fun and creative outlet while bringing the school community together to celebrate the season.

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Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Christian College, Cannonvale State School and Bowen State School

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The Bowen Health Connection event united local community members and health service providers for a day devoted to health and wellbeing across the entire spectrum of life, from babies to the elderly.

Brought to life through the hard work and dedication of Stephanie Cora, executive officer of the Bowen Community Centre, and Josephenie Ferguson, community liaison officer with the Together Strong, Connected Care program.

“The intention of the event was to not just focus on women's health but health in general for people of all age groups, whether you're a parent with a new-born or a senior seeking support," said Ms Cora.

The overarching purpose of Bowen Health Connection was to make local health services more visible and approachable, giving residents the opportunity to access programs which support their health and ultimately improve their quality of life.

Booths and displays were erected for a range of health services, with providers on deck to answer questions and supply attendees with resources.

“Our goal was to give locals a clearer picture of the health services available to them here in the community,” said Ms Ferguson.

The event was made possible through the generous funding from Give Queensland and Q call, whose support allowed the organisers to breathe life into the idea. Both Ms Cora and Ms Ferguson expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the funding and the strong community turnout.

By shifting the focus on inclusion, awareness and access, The Bowen Health Connection succeeded in ensuring essential health information was delivered to the individuals most in need.

“We hope this becomes a regular event,” said Ms Ferguson. “Because healthy communities start with connection.”

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Stephanie Cox and Bowen Health Connection Organisers. Photo Supplied
Josephine Ferguson and Stephanie Cox
Paige Cox and Raeni Ashton of Selectability
Antoinette du Toit and Carol Norris, Senior Coordinator and CEO of Greater Whitsunday Communities
Josephine Ferguson Together Strong Connected Care
Anna Cubis, Linette Leville, Isla Caskie, Penny King of NWRH
Joanne Mulcahy of TRACC
Kaylee Ahern of Headspace and Megan Waite of Madec
Amanda Hunter of Wellways
Tiarna Ezzy of Footprints Community
Ariko Idagi of Girudala Family Support
Michelle Bates and Alicia Gubb of Frail Age Service
Stella Life Care, Stella Community

Photo Credit: Munir Kilic

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Will Donald Trump’s presidency lead to a stock market crash and how will that affect your retirement plans?

We’ve all watched on as Donald Trump has taken a wrecking ball to the established world order over the last few months.  This has led to what is officially called ‘a correction’, where share markets have fallen by over 10%.  Will this turn into a ‘crash’ where markets fall over 20% from their highs?  The real answer is no one knows.  Trump’s policies are so aggressive that no one has any precedence or prior experience of them to accurately gauge their impact on investment markets.  Trump has openly announced that there may be more economic pain to investment markets as he reshapes how countries defend themselves and trade with the US.

We’ve fielded several calls from people who’ve recently retired or are close to retiring, concerned that their Super or Pension fund balance has dropped since the start of the year.  This is the first ‘correction’ on world investment markets for several years and it naturally makes people worried about their financial security.  No one retires and wants to have to go back to work for 5 years to rebuild their super balance.

Establishing a solid financial plan for retirement means getting your head around a few different concepts.  One is having at least a basic understanding of how investing works.  Another is accepting that there will be investment corrections and crashes and having a proven plan in place to protect against them.  Once you have these, you can sleep better at night.

At Eclipse our style has always been to explain things to people over a couple of free interviews before we decide whether to proceed to formal written advice.  This provides time to identify where you’re at, how much you have got in the pot, how old you are and what sort of income and lifestyle you’re chasing in retirement.  We then look at where your money is invested now and explain how investment markets work in simple terms on a whiteboard.  If protecting against market crashes is important to you (and it always is!) we will then explain how we protect retirees against crashes.  We’ll also look at how things like Age Pension work and explain the pros and cons of the different types of super pensions and what suits your situation.

All this is done over a coffee in one or two free interviews and should give you plenty of food for thought.  Once we understand the scope of work required, we will clearly quote any fees to proceed with formal written advice so you can make an educated decision.

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.com.au

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Nestled along the pristine waterfront of the Coral Sea, Marina Shores Airlie beach offers guests an unparalleled fusion of luxury, style and striking views. My recent tour of this exquisite property, under the guidance of the knowledgeable Ross Martin. Demonstrated why Marina Shores raises the bar for luxury living in the Whitsundays. From its elegantly designed accomodations to it’s enviable amenities, Marina Shores is a for seekers of indulgence and serenity.

The tour commenced with a journey through the property’s diverse range of rooms, each painstakingly tailored to maximise comfort and capitalise on the stunning surroundings of the Whitsunday coast. On the ground floor, I viewed the one-bedrom apartments. These spacious units exude modern grace and elegance, with open-plan layouts and large windows that warmly invite natural light. Ascending to the second floor, Ross introduced the two and three bedroom apartments, Which offer Garden, Marina or Ocean views. Ideal for families or groups, these cosy abodes provide ample space and private decks perfectly suited for soaking in the beauty of the Whitsunday Islands.The highlight however, was the third-floor penthouses. Available in two, three or four-bedroom layouts, these lavishly luxurious suites boast both Marina and Ocean views, featuring expansive decks perfect for entertaining guests or quiet reflection. Designed by renowned Ken Down Architects, every room at Marina Shores features vogue interiors, state-of-the-art lightning, and a harmonious interplay of space, light and colour.

Beyond luxury accomodation, Marina Shores offers amenities which uplift the guest experience to even greater heights. Ross proudly showcased the large, heated pool, a standout feature that ensures year-round enjoyment for guests, especially on cool winter nights. The property’s viewing platform cosily tucked away in the back was a personal favourite. This vantage point presents a panoramic view of the surrounding woodland and marina, furnishing guests with a serene spot to relax and unwind. These excellent facilities combined with the fully self-contained, serviced apartments, serve to make Marina Shores a must stay destination which caters to both relaxation and sophistication.

Ross also shared insights into the broader portfolio of the at Hotel Group, which manages Marina Shores. The group oversees an impressive 1,010 properties across Australia, including eight in Airlie Beach, They also operate the Grand Mercure on the tropical gem of Magnetic Island, and a Mantra property in the quaint coastal retreat of Nelson Bay. This diverse collection underscores the group’s commitment to delivering exceptional hospitality in some of Australia’s most sought-after destinations.

Marina Shores is the jewel of Airlie Beach’s crown. Situated at Abel Point Marina and offering wonderous waterfront living with views  spanning across the Whitsunday Islands. The property’s design prioritizes pure decadence, with spacious decks, luxurious finishes, and an ambiance of both exclusivity and inticement. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family holiday, or a lavish escape, Marina Shores delivers an experience as unforgettable as the Whitsundays themselves. For those planning a visit, this property promises not just a stay, but the experience of a lifetime.

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Waterview Apartment in Marina Shores. Photo Supplied.
Apartment Room In Marina Shores. Photo Supplied.
Bedroom in Marina Shores. Photo Supplied.

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By Ruth Puddefoot

Blink and you’ll miss them, but catch a glimpse and you might think you’ve discovered an alien lifeform. Nudibranchs are the ocean’s most flamboyant residents: tiny, slow-moving sea slugs adorned in neon colours, wild patterns and surreal shapes. Like living confetti, they drift across the seafloor. For divers in the know, spotting one is a very special moment.

These vibrant creatures come in an astonishing array of shapes, sizes and colours. Yet despite their dazzling appearance, nudibranchs can be surprisingly difficult to find, often camouflaging perfectly with their surroundings.

They inhabit a wide range of marine environments, from shallow rock pools and coral reefs to sandy seabeds and the dark depths more than 2,000 metres below the surface. As benthic animals, they spend their lives crawling along the ocean floor.

But nudibranchs are more than just a visual delight. As carnivores, they play a vital role in the marine food web, feeding on sea anemones, sponges, soft corals, tunicates and other invertebrates, while also serving as prey for other sea slugs, crabs, lobsters, turtles and even humans. Most of their time is spent grazing or hunting for food.

To eat, many rely on a specialised, toothed structure called a radula, used to scrape or tear food from surfaces. Some species go further, injecting prey with digestive enzymes before sucking out the liquefied tissues. Others have developed a remarkable partnership with symbiotic algae, harnessing sunlight to produce energy in a process similar to corals.

Beyond their ecological role, nudibranchs are gaining recognition as important indicator species. Their populations respond rapidly to changes in the environment, making them valuable barometers of ocean health. A sudden increase or decline in nudibranch numbers can signal broader environmental shifts, particularly those driven by climate change. As coral reefs are one of their preferred habitats and are among the most vulnerable ecosystems, the presence of nudibranchs can reveal much about their condition and resilience.

Fast fact: Nudi's were unknown until the 18th century

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Hi everyone,

As promised, here is the extended edition of Ruth2Reef!

I’m excited to bring you three full pages of fascinating environmental news from around the Whitsundays.

In this week’s edition, we explore the geological history of the Whitsundays and how the region was formed, dive into the vibrant world of nudibranchs, and share some amazing reef and whale facts.

I spotted my first nudibranch a few weeks ago and it was absolutely beautiful. It was tiny, bright blue, and slowly making its way across a coral formation.

If you have an environmental story for me please send it to ruth@lifepublishinggroup.com, I would love to hear from you!

Ruth

"We can't just continue living as if there was no tomorrow, because there is a tomorrow." - Greta Thunberg.

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Only one more week until the big dance – election day is next Saturday. Candidates will be making their final pitches. Chances are though, many voters have already made up their minds and are heading for an early vote. Early polling opened this week and people can cast their vote anytime from now until polls close on May 3rd.

At the 2022 election 32.2% of eligible voters chose to cast their vote before polling day with another 15.9% sending in postal votes. That is a whopping 48.1% of Australian voters had made up their minds early. Many political commentators expect to see a similar figure replicated this year. However, many suggest that while there is a large block of voters who have long known where their vote is headed, a large number are still undecided.

With so many voters this year still undecided, could we see a late surge in support for one of the two major parties or maybe like in 2022 will votes be parked with minor parties and independents?

The betting agents say a hung parliament is on the cards which will result in a drawn out declaration of who forms government. In 2010, the Labor government hung onto power via a minority government before a comprehensive victory by the Coalition in 2013. Could history repeat?

The fallout of the election will make for interesting watching as the outcome usually sees decisions on the futures of political careers made. Unless there is a definitive victory, behind closed doors the caucus of each political party will discuss, debate and unpack the election and decide if a new leader will be best to take them forward.

There is some speculation that Albanese already has one eye on his NSW Central Coast property and unless Labor win a majority this will be his last trip to the big dance. The school of thought is that if the Coalition claim victory his resignation from parliament will be weeks or months after the election, and if Labor secure victory but via a minority, he will pass the baton on half way through the term. Doing this would give time for a new voice to take over and if need be pivot central polices in the hope of avoiding a landslide outcome like that of 2013.

Both Albanese and Dutton are spruiking confidence that they can secure a majority government. They both say they have a plan for Australia’s future.

If Albanese is thinking this could be his last campaign, is he going to pull some last minute moves and throw a Hail Mary or can Dutton successfully sell the Coalition’s message for a majority? Either way, the outcome as to who will lead Australia for the next 3 years will be known soon, albeit if there is a hung parliament there may be a bit of a delay.

Bottom line – Leaders are not forever but the direction the country takes under their leadership can be long lasting.

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The price tag for Labor’s failed ‘Voice’referendum hit more than half a billion dollars. At a
time when Australians are doing it tough, that money could have helped ease cost of
living pressures, putting food on the table, covering rent, or paying power bills.

Here in Dawson, I hear from families every week who are struggling just to get by. Cost of
living pressures are crushing our local communities, yet the Albanese Government chose
to pour hundreds of millions into a divisive referendum that failed to deliver any practical
outcome.

Nearly 61% of Australians said “No,” and in Dawson, more than 80% rejected Labor’s
‘Voice’ proposal. The message was clear: Australians want unity, not more bureaucracy.

On top of this failed and expensive referendum, Labor has made no real impact in
improving the lives of indigenous people living in remote communities.

I made my position clear from the start. Like many here in Dawson, I saw the Voice as the
wrong approach, out of touch with real community needs. The failed referendum
highlighted how disconnected Labor is from ordinary Australians.

The Coalition believes in one Australia, united under one flag, proud of our history, and
inclusive of both Indigenous and non-Indigenous cultures. As Prime Minister, Peter
Dutton has committed to representing all Australians with leadership grounded in
common sense and shared values, vowing to stand in front of just the Australian flag.

Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price, a proud Indigenous Australian with firsthand
experience of life in remote communities, will be a strong Minister for Indigenous Affairs
in a Coalition government, focused on real outcomes, not symbolism.

We’ll invest in better housing, health, education, and jobs where they’re needed most, delivering
practical change to close the gap.

A Coalition government will focus on practical solutions that bring Australians together
and not waste tax payer’s money on creating division and more bureaucracy. We
understand the strain on everyday Australians, from struggling families, to young people
finding their way into work and housing, and to pensioners on fixed incomes.

By cutting unnecessary government spending, reducing red tape, and supporting local businesses,
the Coalition will help ease cost of living pressures. We’ll invest in housing, job creation,
and make it easier for first-time homebuyers to enter the market.

Unlike Labor’s divisive agenda, the Coalition is committed to uniting the country and growing a stronger, more prosperous future for all Australians.

A Dutton/Littleproud Coalition Government will focus on what unites us. We will grow a
stronger, united future.

The Coalition is ready to lead — one people, one future, under one flag.

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Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP with Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price who could be a strong Minister for Indigenous Affairs in a Coalition government. Photo supplied

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Proserpine has a rich military history dating back to the Boer War and since then generations of men and women from this community have answered the call. Some made the supreme sacrifice and are remembered on our cenotaph. Others suffered the horrors of being a prisoner of war, either dying in captivity or returning home as shadows of their former selves.

It would have been heart-wrenching for families to watch their sons head off to war, but imagine what it must have been like for those who saw more than one child enlist. Such was the case for several families in Proserpine in both world wars.

In World War Two, four of five Farrell brothers; sons of James Joseph Farrell and Mary Teresa (nee Brennan) volunteered to serve their country. Further adding to the anguish that must have been felt at this time, Mary Farrell, known to most as Tessie, was a widow having lost her husband in 1938. To add to her heartache, two of her boys died on active service.

In this feature, we pay tribute to the four brothers Farrell and we thank them for their service.

Lance Corporal Jack Thomas Farrell QX11230 (2/26th Battalion - F Force) POW Died on Active Service

Born December 3 1918, Jack (John) enlisted at Miowera on July 3 1940 along with several other Proserpine men and was deployed to Singapore in 1941. Captured when the Japanese over ran Malaya, he spent several years in various Japanese prison camps and worked on the construction of the infamous Thai-Burma Railway line.

Soon after the family received word of his safety, they learnt that his years of captivity had undermined his health and he was placed on the army’s dangerously ill list. On October 27 1945, Jack returned to Australia on the hospital ship “Manunda”. He was taken to Concorde Military Hospital but sadly died on October 29 only two days after arriving in his home country. His mother was enroute to Sydney by train to meet Jack but in Brisbane she received the sad news by telegram of his passing away.

Lance Corporal Jack Farrell is buried in the Sydney War Cemetery, Rockwood. He is remembered on the Proserpine Cenotaph and his name is located at Panel 53 in the commemorative area at the Australian War Memorial.

Joseph Farrell QX 24851 (2/7TH Battalion) KIA

Born June 22 1922, Joseph, whose real name was Patrick but known as Joe, was the youngest of Farrell brothers. He signed up on January 1 1942. Joe was killed in action. He died at Mubo on August 23 1943 during the Salamaua – Lae campaign in New Guinea with the 2/7th Battalion. He was reinterred on May 5 1946 in the Lae War Cemetery SB 12 and is remembered on the Proserpine Cenotaph.

James Joseph Farrell QX27969 (Z Special Unit)

Born August 8 1911, James, known as Jim, was married and the eldest, enlisting on February 2 1942. He was a member of Z Special Unit which was a training school set up outside Cairns. In February 1943, special operations were reorganised under Special Operations Australia (SOA); sometimes known as Special Reconnaissance Department. Z Unit, which came under the control of SOA, conducted 81 covert raids in WW2.

James was posted to Thursday Island Fortress with Torres Strait Force and to Morotai with Z Special Unit. He was discharged November 26 1945. James was an active returned soldier and would regularly act as MC at dances held to raise money after the war. He worked at Faust Bros. Hardware Store.

James Joseph Farrell passed away November 11 1962, aged 51, and is buried in the Proserpine Cemetery.

Sapper Eric John Farrell Q112034 (11 Field Company)

Eric, born March 12 1913, enlisted before his older brother on June 21 1941 and served for 203 days until he was discharged twelve months later, on June 26 1942, classified as an essential service person - those who worked on a farm, in a mine, or in a business that needed some of their men. When Japan entered the war, many men dropped their tools and enlisted, leaving the workforce very low and affecting the country’s ability to produce items necessary for both the military and civilians.

Eric Farrell worked as a labourer in the sugar industry on both farm and in the mill. He was called back to cut cane.

Eric John Farrell died May 18 1967, aged 54 and is buried in the Proserpine Cemetery.

Lest we Forget

Lance Corporal Jack Farrell
Eric John Farrell
Private Joseph (Joe) Farrell
Private James Joseph Farrell

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Everywhere I go in the Whitsundays, I hear the same concern: insurance is becoming unaffordable. Whether it's families, small business owners, or strata property holders — the cost of protecting what matters most has blown out.

And during a cost-of-living crisis, those costs hit even harder. Too many people are being forced to go without insurance or settle for inadequate cover.

This leaves our communities exposed and underprepared — especially in regions like ours, where extreme weather events are a known risk.

What’s most frustrating is that we’ve done the right thing. Across Queensland, councils have invested heavily in flood mitigation, resilience infrastructure, and natural hazard planning to reduce risk and better protect our communities.

Yet, despite these efforts, we’re still seeing insurance premiums skyrocket by 100%, 200% — even 500% in some areas. It’s unsustainable, it’s unfair, and it’s leaving too many Queenslanders behind.

That’s why councils across the state, including Whitsunday Regional Council, are calling on the Federal Government to take urgent action.

We want to see:

Greater transparency in how premiums are set, including proper recognition of local mitigation measures;

Increased affordability and availability of insurance — for homes, strata title holders, and businesses alike;

A holistic review of the Australian Cyclone Reinsurance Pool, including extended claims periods and broader eligibility for cyclone and flood-related damage.

We are doing our part to make our communities safer and more resilient, but we need a system that recognises and rewards those efforts, not penalises them.

It’s time for a fairer insurance framework that supports regional Queenslanders, protects livelihoods, and strengthens our ability to bounce back when disaster strikes.

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By Ruth Puddefoot

As the Easter treats disappear, the foil starts piling up, it is important to remember that Aluminium foil is fully recyclable. To make sure it actually gets recycled and doesn’t get mistaken for paper, scrunch your wrappers together into a ball about the size of your fist.

If you somehow didn’t get through enough chocolate to make a fist-sized ball of foil (hard to believe, but it happens!), you can pop those smaller bits into an empty aluminium drink can. Once it’s full, pinch the top closed and drop it in your recycling bin... easy!

Who knows? That Easter wrapper could one day come back as a drink can, a toy, more foil, or even part of a plane!

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The Queensland Tourism Industry Council, in partnership with Whitsunday Regional Council, invites you to join us for a special World Environment Day event on Thursday 5 June at 3:00pm.

Taking place at Shute Harbour Marine Terminal, this event is all about bringing sustainability into the spotlight and exploring how we can build a more environmentally-conscious tourism industry - right here in one of Queensland’s most iconic regions.

Whether you're just getting started on your sustainability journey or already leading the charge, this is a great opportunity to connect with others, share ideas and be part of the conversation shaping the future of tourism in Queensland.

There’ll be inspiring speakers, local insights, and a chance to reflect on how we can all play a part in protecting the natural places we rely on and love.

Everyone is welcome - come along, get inspired, and help us celebrate World Environment Day. Early bird tickets are now on sale at https://www.localtickets.com.au/

Contributed With thanks to Tourism Whitsundays

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Pre-polling opened this week, marking a pivotal moment in the Federal Election race as candidates ramp up their campaigns, attending events, meeting voters, and making their case for the title.

Last week, the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry hosted a Meet the Federal Election Candidates Event, where attendees were eager to hear about the candidates' plans and promises. This will be followed by a formal debate in Mackay this Wednesday. The Australian Federal Election will be held on Saturday 3rd May.

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Allan Milostic President of the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Amanda Nickson from the Family First Party, Michael Lockyer from the Trumpet of Patriots, current Federal Member for Dawson and LNP candidate Andrew Willcox, Labor candidate Neil Wallace, Greens candidate Paula Creen, Independent Queensland Senate candidate Jason Brown and facilitator Judy Porter. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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The Mayor’s Charity ball is a fundraising event with all proceeds supporting BMA CQ rescue, the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre and the Bowen Community Centre. The event is fully funded through tickets sales and sponsorships.

There are multiple sponsorship levels available, from becoming a Platinum sponsor to donating a prize for the auction or mystery reveal game. Sponsors are acknowledged during the Mayor’s Charity Ball promotional activities as well as at the event.

For more information on becoming a sponsor, email mayorscharityball@wrc.qld.gov.au or call 1300 972 753.

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