There are two exciting events in the Mackay Festival of Arts where you can sing and dance like no one is watching.
Massaoke OZ is a mind-blowing, high-energy live music experience that will have you singing your heart out to the biggest hits of the 70s, 80s, 90s and beyond.
Acting Executive Manager MECC and Events Jemma Carey said Massaoke was karaoke on a massive scale and the atmosphere that built at the shows was electrifying.
“Massaoke started life in a London pub basement as a live band sing-along called ‘Friday I’m in Love’,” Ms Carey said.
“They had printed song sheets for the audience, and it was really just a pub sing-along,” she said.
“Within a few years the team had added the big screen and restyled themselves as Massaoke.
“They then took the show global and became famous for their high-energy stage shows and extraordinary outfits.”
Massaoke OZ will be giving Mackay audiences the chance to bring the sing like never before and unleash their inner rock star at the MECC on Friday, July 19, and Saturday, July 20.
Deputy Mayor Belinda Hassan said there was a particular buzz around the Saturday show which opened an hour earlier than the Friday show.
“On Saturday night the foyer will open from 6.30pm and the show starts at 7pm, because Massaoke OZ is the official Wisely Wine and Food Day afterparty,” Cr Hassan said.
“After a day of relaxing on the Queens Park lawn, it’ll be the perfect way to take things up a notch,” she said.
“I’ve had a look at the set list and it’s full of hits that will have everyone singing along – lots of karaoke must-haves like Bohemian Rhapsody, Livin’ on a Prayer and even John Farnham’s classic You’re the Voice.”
Cr Hassan said the appeal of Massaoke was it created a judgement free space where everyone could join in.
“And it’s not the only Festival of Arts event to tap into the appeal of being able to express yourself,” she said.
“No Lights No Lycra takes it to the next level – you can literally dance like no one is watching, because no one can see you.
“They crank up the music and make the room pitch black.”
Initially created by dancers in Melbourne, this kind of dance party is now a phenomenon throughout the world. So, if you love to dance, but don’t want anyone to see you do it, then head along to the Performing Arts Centre, Northern Beaches Mackay State High School on Wednesday, July 24, from 6.15pm.
No Light No Lycra tickets are just $10.
Also running over this coming week of the Mackay Festival of Arts is:
   • Annie Jnr, a musical theatre production based on the Broadway Musical, Annie. Proudly bought to you by Mackay Fame Talent School on Saturday, July 13, and Sunday, July 14, at the CQU Conservatorium of Music.
   • Whitsunday Wealth Festival Hub – four nights of free music at Bluewater Quay, running nightly until Sunday, July 14.
   • Neon Fireworks Paint and Sip Night – Saturday, July 13, from 6pm at the Creative Art Studio.
   • The Sarina Small Halls Concert, featuring Canadian duo Quote the Raven, Australian folk singer Hailey Calvert and local Tiffany Grace – Saturday, July 13, at the Bob Wood Cultural Hall.
   • Graeme Connors – My Lyrical Life 50 Years On will be at the MECC on Saturday, July 13.
   • The Appleton Ladies' Potato Race is at Kucom Theatre from July 18.
For more details on any Mackay Festival of Arts event, visit themecc.com.au/festivals

Massaoke OZ will be giving Mackay audiences the chance to bring the sing like never before.  Image credit: Luke Dyson Photography
Whitsunday Wealth Festival Hub map
Graeme Connors – My Lyrical Life 50 Years On

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Calling all high school students!
Get ready to put your journalistic skills to the test.
As part of the Mackay Careers Expo, Mackay Regional Council will be holding a competition for students to interview the Mayor and CEO and receive a $100 gift card to celebrate!
Mayor Greg Williamson said council was excited to launch this competition to encourage the future leaders of our community to start getting involved in local government.
“The competition is open to all students in years 10 to 12 and it’s not just for students looking to pursue a career in journalism” Mayor Williamson said.
“It’s a great opportunity for students who want to practise their public speaking and interviewing skills and is a great insight into the functions of local government and the career paths available here at council,” he said.
Students can submit their “toughest questions for the Mayor and CEO” as individuals or a group submission, in a written or video format.
If you would like to take up the challenge, head to mackay.qld.gov.au/interviewcomp to submit your entry.
The Mackay Careers Expo will be held at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC) on Thursday, August 15, from 10am to 11am.
Council will once again have a stall at the expo, so drop in to meet the team!

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A new initiative to streamline the tourism experience and provide unparalleled customer service to all Whitsunday visitors has been launched by a forward-thinking local marketing agency 8 Seconds, in collaboration with Tourism Whitsundays.

The project is the brainchild of Tolita Dukes, Director of 8 Seconds, who was inspired to give local industry the tools to provide exemplary customer service by helping operators deliver best practice and sharpen their people skills.

Crystal Walton, Paige Moore and Jade Richardson from Tourism Whitsundays, Tolita Dukes from 8 Seconds, Julie Telford Chair of the Board for Tourism Whitsundays and Alyssa Turner and Rosanagh Gallivan from Tourism Whitsundays. Photo credit: Norina Jane

More Bang For The Tourist Buck!

Taking the lead in this exciting new ‘Customer Service Hero’ initiative is Tolita Dukes from 8 Seconds, a highly regarded marketing agency which has offered business coaching and advice to Whitsunday businesses for over 11 years.

Determined to help drive the visitor experience in the Whitsundays so it can become more streamlined, Tolita created a course that will educate workers on how to provide best practice experiences.

The ‘Customer Service Hero’ initiative was launched this week, and it invites operators to sign their workforce up to a 30-minute online course which covers topics such as conflict resolution, meet-and-greet etiquette, crisis management and customer service best practices.

“This bold industry initiative aims at elevating the skills of all tourism professionals in region through innovative online accreditation,” explained Tolita.

“This not only benefits tourists but also fosters a culture of continuous improvement within the Whitsunday's tourism industry.

“The Customer Service Hero program aims to raise our already high standards across the board, by educating and encouraging consistent customer service excellence region wide, whether your guests are catching a transfer, ordering a coffee, or boarding a day cruise.”

Elizabeth Hackett, Executive Chair of Australian Adventure Tourism Group, applauds the program's potential to transform the industry.  
 
"The creation of the Customer Service Hero Program is set to be a game changer for the service industry. It is a timely introduction of a program needed to ensure our region and our state are leading the way in customer service.”   
 
“This program will serve as a critical resource for small business as well as provide benchmark standards to the broader industry. The program will offer all stakeholders a clear pathway with accountability for being a successful part of the change our industry needs to see.”

Julie Telford, Chair of the Board for Tourism Whitsundays said she encourages all stakeholders to seize this opportunity for industry leadership and pioneering excellence in customer service region-wide.

“As one of Queensland's premier destinations, known for its stunning landscapes and award-winning experiences, delivering exceptional service is essential to our brand,” she expressed.

“We are thrilled to partner with Tolita to roll out this program, as it will play a crucial role in establishing a foundational shift in our customer service culture, ensuring the best possible customer experience.” 

8 Seconds manages all aspects of the program and, with the upcoming Olympics in sight, the rollout ensures The Whitsundays shines brightly during this global spotlight. 
 
“Together, we can elevate The Whitsundays to new heights of service excellence which is so critically important in the lead up to the 2032 Olympics,” states Tolita. 
 
“The Customer Service Hero Program marks a pivotal moment for our industry - it's not just about improving service; it's about cementing The Whitsundays as a global destination of choice, ensuring our region thrives.”
 
The Customer Service Hero program is a cost-effective option for tourism businesses, with pricing starting from $29 per person for Tourism Whitsunday members and $37 for non-members. In addition, $2 from each booking will be reinvested into Tourism Whitsundays.  Beyond the initial training, the program offers annual updates to keep participants ahead of industry trends. Find out more, visit customerservicehero.com.au

In short,
the Customer Service Hero Program is:

   • Fast and efficient: Online training takes just 30 mins.
   • Affordable: This is training on a budget, at $29 for Tourism Whitsunday Members, and $37 for non-members.
   • Results Driven: Customer Service translates all about sales, and repeat business.
   • Process-Focused: Consistency is key, with extra templates and resources provided to support process-driven customer service excellence.

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Tolita Dukes, Director of 8 Seconds and Julie Telford, Chair of the Board for Tourism Whitsundays launching the initiative earlier this week. Photo credit: Norina Jane

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Unexpected acceleration while performing a U-turn on a steep incline was cited as one of the contributing factors that could have caused the golf buggy accident that resulted in the death of newly wed Marina Hanna on Hamilton Island two years ago.

Ms Hanna’s husband of 10 days, Robbie Awad was at the wheel on that fateful day in June 2022 and was subsequently charged with driving without due care and attention causing death, pleading not guilty to the charge.

He did, however, plead guilty to failing to wear a seatbelt, failing to ensure a passenger was wearing a seatbelt and using a mobile phone while driving.

Mr Awad’s hearing took place at Proserpine Court House last week and an ABC Tropical North report stated that Mr Awad had been using his mobile phone earlier whilst driving, but it was back in his pocket at the time of the accident.

The court also heard an account of what unfolded in the minutes surrounding the incident, details of which had previously not been made public.

Mr Awad’s Sydney defence lawyer Phillip Boulten asserted that the accident was largely caused by the buggy accelerating unexpectedly when it was part way through a U-turn on a steep incline.

It was argued that Mr Awad had noticed the buggy was running low on battery and not operating correctly when he decided to turn around so he could return to their accommodation at the island’s five-star qualia resort.

Mid-way through this turn, which was on a hill, the buggy allegedly jolted forward and accelerated, at which point Mr Awad lost control and the vehicle flipped on its side trapping Ms Hanna underneath.

It is understood that she sadly died straight away.

The ABC court report stated that Police prosecutor Sergeant Linden Pollard detailed how the buggy flipped because of the driving speed and the angle of the road.

The court questioned whether Mr Awad could have chosen a safer way to turn the vehicle with Magistrate O’Callaghan ultimately concluding the cause of the accident was downwards topography, gravity and the struggling performance of the gold buggy.

While it was uncovered that there could have been a better way to perform the U-turn, it was decided that unexpected acceleration could likely have caused a similar result.

Mr Awad was found not guilty of driving without due care and attention causing death, but he was fined $3483 for both buggy passengers failing to wear seatbelts and using a mobile phone while driving.

A Hamilton Island spokesperson said: “our deepest thoughts and condolences remain with Robbie Awad and the family and friends of Marina Hanna”.

“The safety and well-being of our guests, residents and employees continues to be our highest priority.”

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Robbie Awad and Marina Hanna on their wedding day, just 10 days before Ms Hanna died in a golf buggy accident while they were honeymooning on Hamilton Island. Photo: Facebook

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Hi Everyone,

Back to school this week and many parents (and grandparents) may be feeling relieved to have the routine returned – I know I am! Although I love the holidays, I think children get so much from school these days, not only connection with friends but also mental stimulation that both challenge and invigorate them.

My son, however, certainly didn’t realise this new routine was a welcome addition when he woke up on Monday morning. In fact, he promptly informed me that he hated school, followed by - “this is the worst day of my life!”

Thankfully, we pushed through the morning and as suspected, when his dad picked him up, he was told he’d had a “wonderful day!”

I asked him about it later that evening and I found the one thing he chose to mention to be very interesting.

He said they had a class where they were told to look in a mirror and say three positive things about themselves – one of his was that he was brave, which I thought was lovely as he definitely has to dig deep with daily challenges.

I love that positive affirmation and mental wellbeing is part of the curriculum these days and the fact that it was a highlight of the day for my son really reinforces that it’s not only important but also working.

It got me thinking about my own little rituals – one of them is in the shower each morning where I imagine the water is good vibes washing over me for the day. As I wash my face, I list the things I want to embody – good health is always first, but I also add things like confidence, compassion, energy, ability.  

This little routine really sets me up for the day – what routine do you have? Or what routine could you start?

Rach

Quote of the Week: “I breathe in confidence and exhale fear” (Stevie M Starks)

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This week’s Good Deed goes to Whitsunday Coast Airport (WRC) which has just announced news that it has broken the 500,000 annual passenger barrier for the first time in its 73-year history.

A gateway to the region, Whitsunday Coast Airport plays a vital role in bringing tourists to town and it has adapted to significant increase in traffic over the past three years, recording 280,000 guests in 2021 and jumping to a whopping 507,000 this year.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said breaking the 500,000-passenger milestone is a testament to our Whitsunday region’s tourism appeal and the airport’s commitment to providing an exceptional experience for all travellers.

“The sky really is the limit, and the new record is a clear indicator of our airport’s essential role in supporting tourism and economic growth in the region.”

WRC Director of Commercial Businesses Craig Turner said increased flight frequencies and adding more new routes were key to the record passenger numbers.

“It is exciting that, despite the collapse of Bonza earlier this year, we have still set a new annual record and, with direct Adelaide flights starting in September, it is vital that we continue to explore new tourism markets,” he said.

“While my airport team will celebrate this milestone, we remain focused on ensuring every passenger enjoys a top-tier experience from take-off to touchdown while also expanding our reach to welcome more visitors to the stunning Whitsundays.”

“The Whitsunday Coast Airport's role extends beyond just tourism. It is a vital link for business travel and freight, ensuring that our region remains connected and competitive.”

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A beautiful array of colours, flags, banners and decorations lined the streets of Bowen on Monday the 8th of July for the annual NAIDOC Week Flag Raising and March.
The event launches a week full of festivities, highlighting the communities' inclusive spirit and celebrating the invaluable contributions of the Indigenous members of the community.
Girudala, a community control society, that is celebrating its 50th year, this year, organised and hosted the event with CEO Associate Professor Carmen Parter, who appeared quite enthusiastic about the day.
“I've been told that this is the biggest march they have had here in Bowen,” she said.
“Today is really about the whole week.”
“That’s a whole week celebrating our culture and showcasing who we are as First Nations people in this wonderful country, and to be back on Juru land to make that celebration,” Professor Parter highlighted.
The day started with a March, beginning at 10:00am from Bowen Front Beach, and finished in Town Square, beside the council chambers.
The March was followed by speeches, a traditional smoking ceremony, dance and a cutting of a cake. Individuals then gathered for the flag raising.
The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags were raised alongside the Australian flag over the council chambers, by guest speakers Mayor Ry Collins, Aunty Stephanie Cora, Juru decedent and Uncle Kakam Billy, local Torres Strait Islander decedent.
Mayor Ry Collins expressed how important it is to “make time in our calendars,” to pay tribute to and recognise the importance of Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander culture to our community.
These events are “really important events in our community calendar, and I love being the leading community representative for that,” Mayor Collins added.
NAIDOC has many other events over the week, including schools which are running their own independent events, and a Family Fun Day down at the Sound Shell on Saturday.
Professor Parter emphasised that these events, “once again showcase our culture, our food, our dance, our Music, our stories, and celebrating our elders”.
She added that special mention needs to go to Lela Idagi, who organised the fantastic event for the local community.
“It's a celebration, so, all you can say is be happy, be proud of who you are as First Nations people, Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander people in this country, because we are awesome, we are the oldest living culture.”
Mayor Ry Collins wanted to thank everyone for coming down and supporting the event:
“I just want to thank everyone for their attendance today. I think we saw a really good turnout here this morning.”
The mayor added that he noticed a “strong desire, particularly from our kids to get out and really understand more about what NAIDOC week’s about.”
In her speech, Professor Parter highlighted: “Today is not just about celebrating the past, it is about creating a stronger future.”
NAIDOC week is an important time to come together to honour and celebrate the Indigenous community, find out more about events near you on their website: https://www.naidoc.org.au

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Guest speakers raising flags
School children supporting the event
Traditional smoking ceremony
Cutting of the cake
School children with ‘Blak, Loud and Proud’ banner
The Indigenous Elders who attended the event

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As of Monday this week transport around the Whitsundays just got a whole lot easier with the introduction of ride-sharing app, Uber, which now has 50 vehicles operating in the area.

While transport users are undoubtedly excited by Uber’s arrival, which is set to provide both cheaper rates and better availability, there are concerns about how Uber will impact the livelihood of existing taxi operators.

Local taxi driver Matt Raymant, however, said that Uber will definitely help ease the load during busy periods.

“It could be a benefit to the community, especially in peak times,” he said.

“We can be 100 per cent booked in every aspect and can have up to six pages of jobs holding – at times like this, we could definitely do with a bit of extra help!”

“It’s going to hurt the taxi company a bit though, especially in quiet times.”

Matt did say, however, that in terms of work quality he will be sticking with the local taxi driving company as he “jumps in, does his shift and then walks away,” he doesn’t have to worry about taking responsibility for damage caused or maintenance to the vehicle.

“I’ll be sticking to my taxi for now!” he added.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor, Ry Collins welcomed the launch, saying he was happy to hear people now have more options.

“Any business that makes the lives of locals easier, while offering another earning opportunity, is certainly welcomed in Whitsundays,” he expressed.

“It is an exciting development for our community!”

A statement from the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry said the introduction of Uber will be a game-changer for the local transport sector, however, “market disruption has proven to be good for consumers in most markets”.

“Uber will always disrupt new markets, and this will be true for their arrival into the Whitsundays.”

“However, with the introduction of Uber comes competition and customer choice. If done well, all taxi and private transport users will benefit from an improved service experience.”

Richard Evans from Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry added that local taxis “may see a drop in their revenue which means they may need to take a look at their business model and perhaps improve services.”

Meanwhile, Julie Telford Chair of Tourism Whitsundays, said that she is excited for Uber to assist with the transport of tourists around the region.

“I don’t think it is something that the local taxi drivers should be concerned about, I think it is something that will complement them,” she expressed.

Craig Turner, Director Commercial Businesses for Whitsunday Regional Council added that this is about providing visitors and residents with another option that may be convenient for them.

“I think it’s a sign that the Whitsundays is being seen as quite a mature destination now,” he stated.

Emma Foley, Managing Director of Uber ANZ, said Uber elected to come to the Whitsundays as a result of demand.

“For years Whitsundays locals have requested Uber’s services to get from A to B at the click of a button,” she explained.

“We’re excited to launch our ridesharing offering across Whitsundays, providing a safe and convenient transport solution to travel to any destination, whether that’s a local running errands, or for a tourist visiting local attractions.” 

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Welcome to the latest Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry article showcasing our diverse business community.
 
Dr Faye McPherson graduated in 1991 and took sole ownership of Proserpine Vet Surgery in 2010 after partnering with Dr William Bowman.
 
The Surgery serves the community by providing the high standard pet and animal care.
 
“It’s a very rewarding and fulfilling business that is never dull. There are continuing developments in medications, treatments, ever increasing restrictions and policies, and economic pressures, “ explains Faye.
 
“The biggest challenge is the lack of vets wishing to come to a regional community where after-hours services fall on them and not to an emergency clinic. 

“It’s a lot when you work all day, then be the ‘go to’ person for the community all night, then back to work the next day.”
 
Many people treat their pets as their own children these days. So, vets must be good communicators - fixing, healing, treating as well as sympathising and supporting.
 
Faye’s top tips to other business owners are:

   • Enjoy what you do and the people you do it with. Love and support your staff.
   • Say “thank you” often. Be aware of how much staff are putting in.
   • Don’t sweat the small stuff.  96% of the time it’s not the person’s fault but a procedural problem.
 
Faye enjoys supporting all small businesses in our region and having a voice through the Chamber.
 
Learn more about Proserpine Vet Surgery: localvet.com.au/proserpine/

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The team at Proserpine Vet Clinic. Photo supplied

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Residents of the Whitsunday Region can enjoy a discount on dog and cat registrations if they register early! Renewal notices have been issued, and the discount period for pet registrations runs until 31 July. Registering your pet is a responsible step that greatly enhances the chances of your pet being returned if they get lost. Keep in mind that properties are typically allowed up to two dogs or two cats unless a special permit is obtained. Take advantage of the discounted rates during this period to ensure your pets are safely registered!

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Last week Deputy Mayor Michelle Wright, Director of Corporate Service Jason Bradshaw and I attended the 2024 National General Assembly of Local Government (NGA) in Canberra.
 
This assembly brought together leaders from councils across Australia, providing an invaluable opportunity to explore innovative solutions to the challenges we face as local governments.
 
As well as attending the National Assembly I also stepped up our advocacy efforts by pre-arranging face to face meetings with Catherine King MP (Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government), Speaker of the House Milton Dick, Senator Nita Green (Special Envoy for the Great Barrier Reef), Senator Anthony Chisholm (Assistant Minister for Education and Regional Development) and Senator Susan McDonald (Shadow Minister Resources and Northern Australia. In addition, I managed to secure meetings with senior advisors to Senator Don Farrell (Minister for Trade and Tourism).
 
Following the recent tragic bus and caravan head-on collision at Gumlu the hot topic was disaster resilience and the urgent safety upgrades required on three major routes in our region.
 
Floodproofing Hamilton Plains and Goorganga Plains to allow connectivity to our airport and Airlie Beach and Proserpine’s only hospital has been on the drawing board and promised funding for years, but still our Whitsunday community remain disconnected during Cyclone and flood season.
 
I was also advocating for assistance to seal the remaining 68km of the Bowen Developmental Road between Collinsville and Belyando Crossing which is a major freight route and key connection road for mine workers.
 
The multiple meetings allowed me to engage face to face on a range of challenges facing our Whitsunday region which is the fastest growing local government area in North Queensland.
 
With latest figures showing that 50 per cent of tourists visiting the Great barrier Reef come via our Whitsundays it is important that our infrastructure upgrades keep pace with our growth.
 
Added to our population boom, we have recorded 10 per cent annual growth for passenger numbers transiting through Whitsunday Coast Airport and 30 per cent annual growth in passengers visiting by cruise ships.
 
I am passionate about engaging with federal and state representatives to advocate for the needs of our region.
 
The 2024 National General Assembly of Local Government reaffirmed the vital role that local governments play in shaping the future of our communities and the importance of strong partnerships between local, state, and federal governments to drive positive change and secure the necessary resources for our residents.

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Mayor Ry Collins and Deputy Mayor Michelle Wright standing with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. Photo supplied

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As we move into the next financial year, Tourism Whitsundays has been working on a full marketing activations and membership opportunities calendar.
Through collaboration with industry, we have compiled several strategic national campaigns and targeted ‘moments’ focusing on specific tourism industry segments.
From dining and nightlife to weddings to youth and adventure, our campaign calendar aims to highlight the region's diversity and inspire travellers to visit us all year round.
This marketing activity is supported by a jam-packed calendar of trade events, both domestically and internationally focused and regular industry events.
Throughout the past week and over the next two weeks, we have been running six industry round tables to providing additional information on the activity and encouraging ideas and feedback from industry.
If you are interested in becoming a member of Tourism Whitsundays or would like to attend one of our round table events, please email reception@tourismwhitsundays.com.au for more information.
As always, we look forward to continuing to work closely with our incredible operators within the Whitsundays Tourism Industry to inspire travellers from all walks of life, from Australia and all over the world, to visit our beautiful home.
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Contributed with thanks to Laura Knipe, Marketing Manager, Tourism Whitsundays

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Talk about the winter blues - I think I now know how they feel in England!
Well maybe not as cold, not as wet and not as house-bound but this continual rain has admittedly got the better of me and my vegie patch at times this season.

So, if you have struggled with powdery mildew, late flower set or motivation to be in the veggie patch, know you are not the only one. The upside is very little watering required and root veggies like carrots are bound to be long, straight and plentiful this season (as long as the soil is free draining).

Right, it’s July, so no excuses, get seeding because this is the last month of being able to do so, with a lot of vegetables, until next year! So, get stuck in (even in the rain) and do not put it off for another day (message to self).  

Planting now means vegies for the rest of the year. Miss this time slot and your options diminish rapidly.

July is the last month to seed veggies such as: Broad beans, Spinach, Sliverbeet, Kale and Beetroot.

Here is what diggers suggest from month to month and you’ll see what I am talking about:

I think that most people who grow their own vegetables are concerned or at least motivated by good health and flavourful, chemical free veggies to feed yourself and possible family or friends (sharing is good).  When you grow your own, you know exactly what your food has been exposed to, you have to feed it from conception and chemicals are banned!

For a long and healthy life, seven servings of fruit and vegies every single day is without a doubt a necessity.  What’s your count?  Food diary time.

So what vegies top the list of high in antioxidants that you can plant in July (or miss out this year)?   Let’s talk Beetroot, Spinach and Red Peppers – chillis and/or capsicums.

BEETROOT (Last chance)

It’s easy to grow, and is very happy in full sun but can tolerate part shade. These guys like water, if they grow through dry conditions they can be tough and stringy. So it’s a good season this year for beetroot.

Beetroot take 3-4 months to mature. If you are going to freeze your enormous crop of beetroots, then pick them while they are young 5-7cm in width, cook until tender in the oven at 180 for about 1.5hrs, peel, top and tail and then freeze and they’ll last up to six months.

Beetroots are truly enjoyed pickled and a great way to preserve for 6 months.
Or make beetroot chutney!

Editor would not allow me enough words to include this recipe but email me, I’ll send it to you norinajane@whitpro.com.au

SPINACH (Last chance)

Spinach likes moist soil but avoid watering the leaves where possible. Although known to enjoy cooler climates, certain varieties do well here too! However, winter is the only season to start growing spinach in the Whitsundays.

Planting in a part shade area can benefit this veggie. You can harvest leaves in their infant form as early as eight weeks after planting.

Although best eaten immediately (google spinach recipes, you’ll be very busy in the kitchen), you can also freeze spinach. Just make sure you blanch the leave first. It’s a simple process. Drop them in boiling water for 1 minute and then drain and drop into chilled water for one minute. Drain well. I put mine in a tea towel and make sure excess water is removed.  Put in airtight container and freeze for up to six months.

CAPSICUMS /CHILLIS  (You have more time, but stop procrastinating!)

The longer on the bush, the sweeter and/or hotter these must-have additions to your patch or garden pots will be! Three – four months will see the beginning of production and boy do these guys give and give.

Leave until capsicums are red is my advice. They are so much sweeter and add so much colour to any dish. Chillis however, that’s up to your tolerance! Red means hotter and their second season will see you inundated with chillis so try making chilli oil.

Heat three cups of your chosen oil, add 3 – 10 chillies (do you like your friends or not?), a cinnamon stick, black pepper and whatever herbs you want to try. Cover for at least two days. Strain the oil and bottle. I have an extensive range of olive oils for cooking, you’ll be amazed at the difference it makes to simple meals.

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After six wonderful years of delicious Asian dishes, the community-loved Cool La La is closing its doors for the last time on Monday 15th July.
Owner of Cool La La and Village Cafe, Abbi Gatdula, has decided to close the restaurant due to wanting to focus more on Village Cafe. Abbi also mentioned that she and her partner will be semi-moving back to the Philippines, however, emphasises to her regular customers not to worry as you will still see her “face in Village Cafe regularly.”
Abbi stated that she has mixed emotions about having to close the restaurant:
“I have mixed emotions, obviously we have had the restaurant for six years and we have had a really good time, but we are going to focus on Village Cafe.”
Some highlights for Cool La La and Abbi have been moving into the bigger space that they currently have:
“Through Covid, all our customers actually supported us, which is why we were able to move to that big space for growth.”
As Abbi and her team’s focus moves towards Village Cafe, she announced that the cafe will be open for dinner very soon rather than just breakfast and lunch.
Abbi continues that her valued Cool La La customers can expect to see some of their favourite dishes from the restaurant appear on Village Cafe’s menu:
“As I was telling some of my customers, we can offer some of the food at Village Cafe.”
After a fantastic six years, Abbi wants to thank everyone who has supported them on their journey:
“Having that place for six years was not easy, but we have been able to make it because of our customer’s support.”
Abbi encourages her customers come and join them at the restaurant for their favourite dishes this weekend before they close.
“Hopefully it is not the end of it,” Abbi added.
“It may come back with the support of the community, and we would love for it to come back.”
Head down to Cool La La before Monday 15th to support Cool La La for the last time.

Owner of Cool La La and Village Cafe, Abbi Gatdula, sad to be closing the restaurants doors.

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Bowen Tourism and Business is holding a networking event next week and all members are invited to come along, connect with others and enjoy a lively evening.

The event is free to all members of Bowen Tourism and Business and is being held just before National Mango Day.

The event will be held at Bird’s Fish Bar next Thursday, July 18 from 5.30pm.

It is National Mango Day each year on July 22.

It is hoped the members of Bowen Tourism and Business will take the opportunity to come along and meet other business owners and hear about what the organisation is achieving.

Chair of Bowen Tourism and Business, Jenn Honnery said it had been some time since the organisation had held a networking event and the committee believed the timing was just right.

“We have just finished the financial year so we can update our members on key achievements and visitor numbers,” she said.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said the team of staff and volunteers were really looking forward to the event.

“This is a great chance to bring the business community together,” she said.

If members would like to attend, they should email info@tourismbowen.com.au by Monday or give the Bowen Visitor Information Centre a call on 47864222.

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