On Friday 13 March, Proserpine Entertainment Centre hosted a citizenship ceremony, welcoming the newest citizens. The event was hosted by Mayor Ry Collins, with Uncle Leo Gabey presenting the welcome to country. Mayor Collins, Uncle Leo, Cr Jan Clifford and Cr Gary Simpson provided the certificates, along with a gift to show the regions warmest welcomes.

Mayor Ry Collins was happy to welcome his next-door neighbour of nine years - Bo Zhang - as an Australian citizen. The event was a fantastic morning as many individuals and families were presented with their certificates. It is wonderful to see so many people become more connected with our beautiful community.

1. Tyme Henry, Sharlene Ranginiwa (newest citizen), Cassius McLeod, and Jordan Henry. Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi
2. Bo Zhang and Mayor Ry Collins. Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi
3. Uncle Leo, Cr Clifford and Mayor Collins presenting the certificate and gift. Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi
4. Cutting of the cake. Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi
5. Karen Vloedmans, Brad  Vloedmans, Clement Autret (newest citizen) and Loretta Lopez. Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi
6. A great morning for everyone involved. Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi

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Following last weeks’ unexpected resignation from Deputy Mayor Michelle Wright, a new Deputy Mayor was elected on Wednesday at the Ordinary Council Meeting held in Bowen.

Mayor Collins thanked Cr Wright for her service.

“Councillor Wright will continue to serve the community as Division 4 Councillor, and I thank her for her contribution in the role of Deputy Mayor over the past two years,” Mayor Collins said.

Cr Michelle Wright said that “while there can be differing views around governance and organisational matters, I believe it is important to ensure clarity and stability moving forward.”

“I remain fully committed to serving the residents of Division 4 and the broader Whitsunday community as a Councillor. It continues to be a privilege to represent our community, and I will remain focused on delivering positive outcomes for our region.”

Councillor John Finlay was appointed as the new deputy mayor on Wednesday.

Cr Finlay brings significant experience to the role, including his background as a former CEO of both Bowen and Whitsunday Regional Councils.

“Thank you for your support in nominating and appointing me as deputy mayor. I am honoured and blessed to accept the position”, he said.

“Regardless of local demographics, the single most important for a community to have is – I believe – unity.”

Mayor Ry Collins has stated his support.

“I look forward to closely working with Cr Finlay as we continue to get on with the job for the Whitsundays”, said Mayor Collins.

“I also want to acknowledge and thank Cr Michelle Wright for her service as Deputy Mayor over the past two years.”

1 - Councillor John Finlay appointed as new deputy mayor. Photo credit: Facebook

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Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton recently brought together several local women for a high tea at Deja Vu Cafe last Friday to acknowledge their contributions to the community as part of Queensland Women’s Week 2026.

Among those recognised was Amanda Potter, founder of The Held Project, who supports mothers experiencing perinatal mental health challenges by creating safe and compassionate spaces where women can feel seen, supported and understood during one of life’s most vulnerable seasons.

FACESS Mackay manager Penny Tatow was also acknowledged for her work supporting local youth. Through her leadership and care, she helps keep young people connected to school while encouraging them to believe in their future and pursue their dreams.

Caroline Fitos, founder of Pink Co Collective, was recognised for the support she provides to women recovering from breast cancer. Through her volunteer work, she offers emotional support, nutrition guidance, personal training and education, helping women rebuild strength, confidence and hope.

Long-time community advocate Vasiliki Comino was also honoured for more than three decades of volunteer service and support for local causes. A charter member of the Zonta Club of Mackay and a business owner with P Comino and Sons, she has also been a long-time sponsor of the Mackay Regional Council Australia Day Awards, generously giving back to the community she has long called home.

Maryanne Palliaer was recognised for her volunteer work with the River for Life, where her kindness, warmth and quiet generosity continue to uplift those around her and support important local initiatives.

Mr Dalton also recognised his beloved wife, Sue, acknowledging her ongoing support and encouragement throughout the years.

The morning provided a heartfelt moment to pause and thank these women for the difference they make, not only during Queensland Women’s Week, but every day across the Mackay region through their dedication, compassion and service to the community.

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton hosted a high tea at Deja Vu Cafe to recognise several local women whose dedication, compassion and community work were celebrated during Queensland Women’s Week 2026.

Amanda Potter with Nigel and Sue Dalton.

Penny Tatow with Nigel Dalton.

Caroline Fitos with Sue and Nigel Dalton.

Vasiliki Comino with Nigel Dalton.

Maryanne Palliaer with Nigel Dalton. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Arhamah Haider has been named the 2026 Lions Youth of the Year by the Mackay Northern Beaches Lions Club, impressing both judges and audiences with her poise, confidence, and articulate public speaking.

Taking not only the overall title but also the public speaking component, Arhamah stood out in a field described as exceptionally strong. Her ability to express complex ideas with clarity and confidence set her apart, marking her as a young leader to watch in the region.

As the Mackay Northern Beaches Lions Youth of the Year, Arhamah will now represent her club and the Northern Beaches community at the wider Mackay Region competition, taking on other outstanding students from across the region.

The judging panel, comprising Andrew Carley, Gerri Kissner, and Kelly Menzies of Local Eyes Mackay, were praised for generously volunteering their time and expertise to support this important youth initiative.

Participants tackled challenging topics during the public speaking component, including human rights issues, the medical gap within communities, manufacturing in Australia, artificial intelligence, and other matters impacting youth today. Their presentations showcased insight, research, and maturity well beyond their years, leaving judges with the difficult task of selecting a winner.

The Lions Club also acknowledged the decades of dedication from Kaye Petersen, who has convened the Youth of the Year competition for over 30 years. Petersen’s countless hours coordinating the program have ensured its continued success and its lasting impact on young people in the community.

Mayor Greg Williamson, who was part of the judging panel over the weekend, praised the event and the calibre of the entrants.

“The calibre of young people who step forward to take part is outstanding, and it’s always encouraging to see the confidence, leadership, and community spirit they display,” he said.

“Congratulations to Zone Finalists Matilda McKenna and Arhamah Haider, with Arhamah taking out the win. Both represented themselves extremely well and should be very proud.

“Arhamah will now go on to compete in Townsville and I wish her all the very best for the next stage of the competition.”

Known for her confidence and can-do attitude, Arhamah Haider has already made her mark in the region. The Mackay Northern Beaches Lions Club, along with the wider community, looks forward to following her journey at the wider Mackay Region competition and wishes her every success as she continues to shine.

Well done, Arhamah!

Arhamah Haider has been named 2026 Youth of the Year by the Mackay Northern Beaches Lions Club, impressing judges with her poise, confidence, and outstanding public speaking, and will now represent the region at the wider Mackay competition. Photos supplied

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On Saturday 15^th March, Proserpine State High School student Tiarne Watson won the Lions Youth of the Year Zone 9 final. She competed against talented students Isaiah Howell (Bowen State High School), Kodie Mackie (Collinsville State High School and Public Speaking Winner) and Sophie Morgan (St Catherine’s College), as all showcased excellent skills in public speaking and leadership.

“I feel very grateful to have been commended as the overall District’s Lions Youth of the Year,” Tiarne said.

“The experience proved incredibly valuable and I appreciated the opportunity to meet and learn from like-minded young people who are passionate about their communities.”

The competition entailed a panel interview along with a formal lunch where the contestants responded to two impromptu questions, in addition to presenting their prepared speeches.

Tirane’s prepared speech concerned domestic violence, focusing on the long-term impact it can have on children and families whilst highlighting the importance of community recognition towards the issue.

As winner of Zone 9 (Bowen, Collinsville, Whitsunday, Proserpine) – Tiarne will go on to compete in the regional competition in Townsville on the 28^th March.

“I would like to thank my mentors Casey Scott and Jane Bettridge for their support and guidance. I also give thanks to my school for their encouragement. I am incredibly grateful for the Proserpine Lions Club for supporting me throughout the process.”

Tiarne is incredibly active in her community. She is the Vice Captain of Proserpine State High School and performs leadership roles as a Care Group Representative and UCAT Study Club Representative (2025). She is involved in many community initiatives such as volunteer work at Proserpine Nursing Home, Clean Up Australia Day, volunteer marshal at community sporting events, Vice President of Leos Club and a member of National Youth Science Forum UQ Brisbane.

The Lions Youth of the Program is now in it’s sixith decade and has always aimed to provide Australian Senior School students a forum to gain experience and confidence in presenting themselves to a selection panel and an audience. The program is managed and supported by Lions Australia and run by Lions Club in each of our 18 districts in close collaboration with and supported by – participating schools.

The program is designed to foster, encourage and develop the leadership capabilities of youth at the age where they are about to enter the fields of higher education or employment. The main qualities emphasised are leadership, personality, sportsmanship, public speaking and good citizenship.

It was wonderful to see the extent of support and enthusiasm towards the event. We wish Tiarne all the best at the District Final in Townsville. A further congratulations to all involved. It is wonderful to see the youth talent on full display across the entire region.

Captions

Tiarne Watson with mentor Scott Casey and Mayor Ry Collins

Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi

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Aussie rock powerhouse Jimmy Barnes is heading to Mackay in a major coup for the region, set to headline Legends on the Lawn 2026 this May. The iconic performer will take the stage alongside a stellar line-up, bringing decades of world-class hits, raw energy and unmistakable soul to the Great Barrier Reef Arena.

In an interview with Mackay Life, Barnes shared his excitement about returning to North Queensland, a place he says he has always loved for its beauty, atmosphere and passionate crowds. With a career spanning more than 50 years, he remains one of Australia’s most electrifying live acts, known for delivering powerful performances that connect deeply with audiences.

Barnes says it’s the connection with the audience that makes it all worthwhile: “The minute I walk on stage, it all disappears — and that connection with the audience is what it’s all about.”

Jimmy Barnes, the heart and soul of Australian rock, is coming to Mackay to headline Legends on the Lawn 2026. Photo supplied

Soul Deep And Stage Ready

Jimmy Barnes To Grace Mackay In May
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Aussie rock icon Jimmy Barnes is set to bring his unmistakable grit and heart to Mackay this May, headlining Legends on the Lawn 2026. If his words are anything to go by, audiences can expect a performance charged with energy, emotion and authenticity.

In an interview with Mackay Life, Barnes said he’s always had a special connection to Queensland, describing it as a place that feels as vibrant as the music he’s spent decades creating.

“I love North Queensland… it’s got beautiful climate, beautiful beaches, great food… you can’t beat it.”

With a career spanning more than five decades, Barnes remains one of Australia’s most enduring and electrifying performers, but behind the powerhouse stage presence is a performer who still feels the weight of every show.

“On the day of the show, from the moment I wake up, I’m nervous. By lunchtime I’ve got knots in my stomach, and by four o’clock I’m pacing around.”

That nervous energy, however, transforms the moment he steps into the spotlight.

“The minute I walk on stage, it all disappears, and that connection with the audience is what it’s all about.”

It’s this connection – raw, honest and hard to miss, that has kept fans coming back year after year. Barnes credits that longevity not to chasing fame, but to staying grounded in truth and emotion.

“I’ve always been honest — I wear my heart on my sleeve. I sing about things everyone feels: love, fear, pain, hope.”

“No matter who you are, we all share the same emotions — and I think that’s what people connect with.”

From an early start in music, Barnes’ journey has been anything but ordinary.

“I’ve been singing since I was about four. I joined my first band at 12 as a bass player — but the singer got sacked after the first show, so I had to step up.”

That moment would shape the trajectory of an extraordinary career, one built on passion, persistence and a relentless drive to create.

“If you want to write, you’ve got to turn up. Sit down, pick up the guitar… eventually something will come.”

“There’s inspiration everywhere. I’m always writing lyrics in my phone or recording melodies… you’ve just got to catch it when it comes.”

Despite his success, Barnes remains grounded in what matters most, the music itself.

“Music was my way of escaping. When I was on stage, I could just sing and be free.”

It’s that sense of freedom and release that continues to resonate through his timeless catalogue, with songs like Khe Sanh and Working Class Man still striking a chord with audiences today.

Over the years, Barnes has experienced countless career highlights, but one moment still stands above the rest.

“Singing at the 2000 Olympics closing ceremony — that was incredible. Sharing that moment with the whole country and the world was probably one of my biggest highlights.”

As he prepares to take the stage in Mackay, Barnes carries with him not just decades of experience, but a message to aspiring artists.

“Don’t chase fame — chase connection. Find your voice… Pace yourself and enjoy the journey.”

And when the lights go down and the amplifiers fall silent, it’s the simple things that bring him back to centre.

“I love being at home — cooking, growing food, spending time with family. Those simple things are really precious.”

Fans will have the chance to experience the Aussie icon live at Harrup Park’s Great Barrier Reef Arena on Saturday, May 30, with tickets for Legends on the Lawn available now via Ticketmaster.

Jimmy Barnes brings his iconic voice and unstoppable energy to Mackay, promising a night of unforgettable hits and raw, electrifying connection. Photo supplied

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Members of parliament, police officers and construction representatives gathered on Wednesday 18th March for a turning of the sod ceremony to celebrate the beginning of works on Proserpine’s new Police Station.

The $9.8 million facility will be replacing the previous 60-year-old station which was flooded during Cyclone Debbie, later being criticised as damaged and unfit for purpose.

The upgraded station will include two holding cells, interview rooms, and a safe space to accommodate trauma-informed response for victims of domestic and family violence.

“This new facility will provide our officers with the tools and resources they need to work towards the safety and security of the community, while also creating a space that supports the wellbeing of both staff and community members,” said Acting Assistant Commissioner Paine.

1 – MP Amanda Camm and MP Dan Purdie turn the soil on site for new Police Station for Proserpine.

MPs Turn The Sod As Proserpine Police Station Works Commence



Minister for Police and Emergency Services Dan Purdie and Member of Whitsunday Amanda Camm joined Police representatives last Wednesday to turn the soil on the site of Proserpine’s new police station, whose completion is planned for September 2026. 

Minister for Police and Emergency Services Dan Purdie said:
“This new Proserpine Facility with help local police respond faster, investigate more effectively and restore safety to the Whitsundays community.” 
Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm said:
“As the Whitsundays continues to grow, it’s critical our police have contemporary facilities to better support victims and keep our community safe,”
As Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence, she also highlighted the project’s inclusion of a domestic violence safe space.
“With the prevalence of domestic and family violence, that has only continued to grow year on year, infrastructure like this is really important, because it encourages a safe place for victim survivors to be able to come.
“Sometimes it takes up to 12 times before a victim will come forward to actually express and report the violence that's occurring in the home. And so being able to ensure that we have infrastructure that supports that the needs of victim survivors is really critical.”
Acting Assistant Commissioner Graeme Paine said the replacement Proserpine Police Facility reflects the QPS’s commitment to adapting to the changing needs of the local community:
“This new facility will provide our officers with the tools and resources they need to work towards the safety and security of the community, while also creating a space that supports the wellbeing of both staff and community members,” 

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If you had to design the ultimate ocean giant, you might come up with something like the whale shark — a fish as long as a bus, covered in dazzling white spots, and gentle enough to swim alongside humans. The magnificent Whale Shark (Rhincodon typus) is not only the largest fish in the sea, but also one of the most fascinating creatures on Earth.

Despite their enormous size, whale sharks are surprisingly harmless. Adults can grow to around 12 metres long, although some individuals may reach 18 metres or more. That makes them heavier than an elephant and longer than many boats. Yet these giants are gentle filter feeders that eat some of the smallest organisms in the ocean.

Instead of hunting large prey like many sharks, whale sharks glide slowly through the water with their huge mouths open, filtering tiny creatures from the sea. Their diet includes plankton, small fish, fish eggs, and shrimp-like animals called krill. As water passes through their gills, specialised filters trap the food while the water flows back out. It’s a feeding style more commonly associated with baleen whales, which explains how the whale shark earned its name.

Another cool feature of whale sharks is their extraordinary appearance. Their dark blue-grey skin is covered with pale spots and stripes arranged in a pattern that is completely unique to each individual — much like a human fingerprint. Scientists actually use photographs of these patterns to identify individual sharks and track their movements around the world.

Whale sharks are true ocean travellers, migrating thousands of kilometres through tropical and warm-temperate seas. They can be found in oceans all around the globe. Australia hosts one of the best-known seasonal gatherings of whale sharks at Ningaloo Reef in Western Australia, where dozens of these giants arrive each year to feed on plankton blooms.

Whale sharks are increasingly spotted on the Great Barrier Reef (GBR), with a newly identified, consistent seasonal aggregation site for juveniles in Wreck Bay (northern GBR). Peak sightings occur from late November to late December, coinciding with coral spawning.

Whale sharks are rare but occasional visitors to the Whitsundays. While not common, these gentle giants have been spotted near locations like Blue Pearl Bay.

Despite their size, whale sharks remain surprisingly mysterious. Scientists still know relatively little about their breeding behaviour. Pregnant females are rarely seen, and no one has ever observed whale sharks mating in the wild. One female examined by scientists contained more than 300 embryos, suggesting they produce many young at once — a useful strategy for survival in the vast ocean.

Another impressive ability is their diving behaviour. Whale sharks spend time feeding near the surface, but they are also capable of deep dives to more than 1,000 metres. These dives may help them search for food or navigate long migrations through the open ocean.

Unfortunately, even giants are vulnerable. Whale sharks face threats from ship strikes, accidental capture in fishing gear, and plastic pollution. In some parts of the world, they have also been hunted for their meat and fins. As a result, the species is now listed as endangered.

Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Conservation Group

Captions

Whale Shark

Photo supplied

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An international research team, including scientists from James Cook University (JCU) and the Queensland Museum, has turned to centuries-old records to modernise the way hard coral species are identified, reshaping coral science and conservation.

New JCU-led research published in Memoirs of the Queensland Museum details the development of a global database of hard coral information that reduces reliance on historical gatekeepers. The framework blends modern DNA sequencing with historical observations to create a more rigorous and accessible approach to coral identification.

“People the world over who work on coral reefs know that hard coral identification has been a problem,” said JCU Professor Andrew Baird, co-author and supervisor of the research.

“Our database provides the basis for a new identification framework, at a time when accurate species-level knowledge has never been more critical. It encourages the use of multiple lines of evidence for coral identification, and we hope the database will make what’s previously been a specialist-led taxonomy, more accessible.”

While molecular techniques have transformed coral science, linking modern genetic data with historical species descriptions has long been difficult. The team’s key innovation is the use of ‘topotypes’ — living coral specimens collected from the same locations where species were first described — allowing scientists to sequence genetically comparable material.

“Most historical species names are based on museum specimens which are bleached skeletons, lacking tissue. We need topotypes so they can be sequenced using modern genetic techniques,” said JCU PhD candidate and first author, Augustine Crosbie.

“The significance of this work is that it tells us where to look for topotypes. We’ve found the locations for thousands of corals, right across the world’s oceans.”

The database collates 2338 nominal coral species described between 1758 and 2025.

Professor Baird said improved identification is critical as reefs face growing pressure from warming oceans.

“Inaccurate identification can lead to silent extinctions, misleading experimental results, incorrect species distributions and flawed conservation decisions,” he said.

CAPTION: Professor Andrew Baird, and Julia Hung of JCU processing coral samples after a successful morning of collection diving at Orpheus Island Research Station. Photo credit: Augustine Crosbie

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The Queensland Government has confirmed the Bowen Developmental Road will be among key regional routes upgraded under the new Country Roads Connect Program, aimed at improving connectivity and reliability across rural Queensland.

The road, located within the Whitsunday Regional Council area, is one of 22 projects identified for upgrades as part of the program, which focuses on sealing unsealed roads and strengthening transport links for regional communities, freight operators and local industries.

The Country Roads Connect Program aims to improve road resilience and accessibility, particularly during wet weather events when unsealed roads can become difficult or unsafe to travel.

Minister for Regional and Rural Development Dale Last said investing in regional road infrastructure was essential for the long-term strength of Queensland’s regional industries.

“Regional Queensland delivers so much for the state’s economy from mining to manufacturing and agriculture, and these country roads are the arteries that keep our vital industries connected and support thousands of jobs,” Minister Last said.

“Country Roads Connect is about improving the resilience and connectivity of the regional roads that were left to deteriorate for a decade under the former Labor Government.”

Across Queensland, the program will focus on sealing and upgrading roads that play an important role in supporting freight transport, agriculture and regional travel.

Once completed, improvements to roads such as the Bowen Developmental Road are expected to enhance safety, strengthen regional supply chains and support economic activity throughout communities within the Whitsunday region.

CAPTION: Government has actioned plans to deliver reliable roads for regional Queenslanders, by breaking ground on the first Country Roads Connect Project. Photo supplied

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The closure of Lions Camp Kanga near Lake Proserpine marks the end of an era for North Queensland communities.

Operated by the combined Lions Clubs of North Queensland under a long-term State Government lease, the camp officially opened in October 1992. The site was originally part of the construction camp used during the building of the Peter Faust Dam. Over the past three decades, Lions transformed it into a place where generations of school children and community groups could learn, connect and enjoy the natural environment at an affordable cost.

Sadly, the camp has faced significant challenges in recent years. Severe Tropical Cyclone Debbie caused major damage in 2017, requiring extensive rebuilding after lengthy insurance negotiations. Not long after the rebuild was completed, the COVID-19 pandemic halted bookings and disrupted operations.

While the camp has always focused on providing affordable experiences, it has struggled to regain its former booking levels since the pandemic. Schools, traditionally the camp’s main clients, are increasingly choosing newer facilities with more modern infrastructure and activities.

Despite efforts to refresh programs and attract bookings for 2026, the camp secured less than half the income required to remain financially viable. At the same time, ageing buildings, some now around 40 years old, would require significant investment to maintain.

For Lions, the decision to close the camp is a difficult but necessary one. The organisation remains proud of the role Camp Kanga has played in supporting education, community connection and local tourism for more than 30 years. Negotiations with the State Government are now underway to determine possible future uses for the site.

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The Queensland Government has announced the release of 18 new exploration areas for petroleum, gas, coal, and vanadium, including significant opportunities within the Bowen Basin, as part of broader efforts to support resource development and strengthen regional economies.

Among the newly released areas, 12 petroleum and gas sites span more than 7,000 square kilometres across the Bowen/Surat and Cooper/Eromanga Basins. A further four coal exploration areas cover approximately 235 square kilometres within the Bowen/Surat Basins, contributing to the pipeline of potential future projects.

Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dale Last said exploration remains critical to the long-term strength of Queensland’s resource sector.

“Exploration is where every major project begins and without it, there is no pipeline of future supply,” he said.

The government has also applied Australian Market Supply Conditions to some of the petroleum and gas areas, requiring any gas produced to be supplied to the domestic market.

“This release is part of a broader plan to ensure Queensland continues building its pipeline of petroleum, gas, coal and mineral projects, delivering long-term energy security and economic growth.”

In a further boost to the region, the government has awarded more than $1.5 million to Coreo Pty Ltd to investigate opportunities to recover valuable minerals from coal mine tailings across the Bowen Basin.

The study will examine ways to extract critical minerals such as rare earth elements and vanadium from mine waste, building on the work of the Bowen Basin Circularity Project and exploring new opportunities within the mining supply chain.

“Queensland’s coal industry helped build this state and now it’s helping us build the next generation of resource opportunities,” Mr Last said.

“This collaboration is what our industry does best, bringing together some of Queensland’s leading coal producers with government and research partners to find value in materials once considered waste.

“By finding value in what was once considered waste, we’re creating new jobs, attracting new investment and supporting a more sustainable future for regional Queensland.

“After Labor’s anti-mining policy chaos sent investor confidence off a cliff, the Crisafulli Government is giving the coal industry certainty and backing the thousands of mining families the sector supports.

“Under the Crisafulli Government, Queensland’s resources sector is open for business, and we’re backing new innovations and technologies that will keep our state competitive well into the future.”

Coreo CEO Ashleigh Morris said the funding would strengthen efforts to unlock new value from mining by-products.

“By focusing on critical minerals in coal tailings, and the potential to extract them alongside other valuable components, we are targeting full value from the full volume of tailings,” Ms Morris said.

The government said the combined initiatives aim to support long-term resource development, strengthen supply chains and create new economic opportunities across regional Queensland.

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Despite finding his true calling to art later in life, James Stickland has certainly made a name for himself with a host of achievements, prizes and accolades under his belt.

Although interested in art from a young age, James would not find his true until passion later, initially running his sign business for 19 years whilst raising two children.

“Back at school I was sporty, but I also got bored easily. I always have to be doing something so I would sketch and draw,” said James.

The calling came after a chance encounter on a last minute road trip.

“I was still doing art through graphic design, but it wasn’t hands on. The kids got older – they reached their late twenties and life started feeling poignant, like something was missing. We just happened to buy a work van and had one week left off for Christmas. We went for a drive and stumbled across the Tweed Regional Gallery – it was this massive structure in the middle of nowhere.”

Upon viewing the art, James had a thought that would change his life trajectory forever, “I could probably do this.”

After lots of practice, googling and some YouTube tutorials, James was well on this way to becoming a highly acclaimed artist.

“That started my passion, now it’s an addiction.”

Talking to James, we reflected on the power of one of his favourite forms: portraiture.

“When I first started chasing sitters for the big national prizes, they’d request you have a sitting which I thought was going to be a pain, but you 100% need to meet the person and sit with them for a few hours, even if just for a coffee,” he said.

“You get to see their personality, what they’re like – and you can really start to think about what you want to put in the painting.”

In discussing influences, James cited an artist by the name of Vladmir Bologov.

“He’s a very loose painter in the same vein as John Singer Sargent. I used to do realism to prove I could, and I love what others produce, but I find it a bit boring,” James explained.

“It’s more the expressive strokes that excite me. All my paintings are a bit looser – more contemporary.”

Having now transitioned to full time work with his new studio, James is still in shock over his newfound success.

“It’s just surreal. It doesn’t feel real yet. I never thought it would happen, and now that it has it’s like – oh well this is weird – better commit.”

James has already amassed a huge string of achievements including the Brisbane Art Rotary Prize, valued at $15,000 as well as becoming a six-time national finalist in major portrait prizes across Brisbane, Perth, Sydney, Townsville and the Doug Moran. He also received a Highly Commended award from an ARC International competition of 5,400 entries and was awarded a scholarship to attend the Portrait Society of America conference in Washington DC in 2025.

We look forward to what James does next. He is truly a great creative talent.

CAPTION: Artist James Stickland at work in his studio, where he now creates the expressive portrait paintings that have earned him national recognition. Photo supplied

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This week, I’d like to discuss something a bit more personal. The day this paper comes out will mark four years since my grandfather passed away. It is also the birthday of my uncle who passed away in 2024. My grandfather was poet and therefore I believe this is a perfect opportunity to share some of his poetry.

The beautiful thing about poetry, and art in general, is that it has the power to immortalise someone. It allows you an intimate connection in the midst of grief. It is perhaps one of the truest ways to remember someone many years after they have passed away. So this poem – and the creative corner this week - is dedicated to my Grandpa Bob (who also went by the name Mr Possum), and my Uncle Kane.

I hope they’re having a good time – wherever they may be.  

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This week’s winner for the theme of fun was Rebecca Ross, with this joyful photo of her dogs playing at Conway Beach.

Budding photographers are welcomed to the Whitsundays Amateur Photography Facebook Group to participate in next week’s theme: in my town.

Photo contributed by Whitsunday Amateur Photography on Facebook.

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