Sporting legend Ash Barty will add her star power to the State Library of Queensland’s successful play-based learning initiative, First 5 Forever.
Ash’s new role as First 5 Forever ambassador was announced at a special event at the State Library earlier this month.
The tennis champion will promote the benefits of parents and caregivers talking, reading, singing and playing with their children.
First 5 Forever helps families discover ways to support their children’s development in the first 5 years.

“As a new mum and auntie, I know how important it is to find everyday moments to connect and build a bond with little ones. That’s why I’m so excited to be the First 5 Forever ambassador,” Ash said.

“I’m proud to be championing First 5 Forever and sharing how talking, reading, singing and playing with children helps them to thrive,” she said.  

Ash’s appointment follows this year’s launch of the Ash Barty Foundation, which provides opportunities for young boys and girls through sport and education. It also builds on her close relationship with State Library.

Minister for the Arts Leeanne Enoch said, “We know when young Queenslanders learn early while they play, they thrive with lifelong health benefits.

“As a world tennis champion, a new mum and a Queenslander, Ash Barty is a wonderful ambassador for giving our kids the best possible start in life.

In acknowledgment, State Librarian and CEO Vicki McDonald AM shared, “The early years matter, which is why State Library is thrilled to continue its partnership with Ash and the Barty family through First 5 Forever.”

“We look forward to working with Ash to help parents connect with their children, in fun and meaningful ways.”

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Leeanne Enoch MP with Queensland tennis ace Ash Barty, whom is now adding her star power to First 5 Forever as the new state-wide ambassador.

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North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) is investing around one million dollars to improve the area, near its Port of Mackay.
The improvements to the North Wall recreational area will provide long-term benefits not only for its current visitors but also for future generations.​
With a local office in Mackay, landscape architects at RPS Group have been engaged to develop a preliminary layout for consideration.​
It’s anticipated that the project (including construction) will be completed in early 2025.
NQBP Chief Executive Officer Brendan Webb said the project had been initiated to provide port community members with improved amenities.
“At NQBP, we share the passion the community has for safeguarding the local environment and are committed to continuing to provide recreational access to North Wall Beach,” Mr Webb said.
“We’re looking forward to enhancing the area’s natural beauty while maintaining its unique and peaceful outlook for the community and future generations,” he said.
Mr Webb said the port authority had been working closely with key stakeholders to incorporate their feedback.
“Community engagement is at the forefront of this project.
“We have been working with representatives from our key stakeholders such as Yuwi Aboriginal Corporation, Mackay and District Turtle Watch and NQBP’s Port of Mackay Community Reference Group (CRG) who have all provided their feedback into the project.”
Long-term CRG member Mick DePinto said he was looking forward to the project coming together.
“As a regular user of North Wall, I’m really excited about this project,” Mr DePinto said.
“I’m looking forward to working together with NQBP and seeing this project come to life,” he said.
With a local office based in Mackay, Queensland-based landscape architects RPS have leveraged its extensive experience in coastal landscape development to prepare the preliminary design layout.
RPS Principal Practice Leader Tim Connor said RPS was pleased to be part of this important project.
“Our goal is to deliver landscape design that reflects and responds to the distinctive character, climate and culture of the North Wall site.”
“We’re looking forward to hearing from the community to understand what matters most, and evolving the design of this exciting site.”
Broader community feedback on the preliminary layout is now open for a period of four (4) weeks and will close at COB Friday 3 May 2024.
A final design layout will be prepared once the consultation period has closed and relevant feedback has been considered and included where possible.
Michael DePinto from community group ‘Save Our Northwall’ said that while the advocacy group didn’t get everything they wanted, they viewed this as a win for the turtles, the ecosystem and the community.
In a post on the group’s Facebook page, Mr DePinto said “I can’t thank the NQBP team at all levels enough for what has been achieved with their support. They live in Mackay and love Mackay, we could not have achieved this outcome without their support.”
He also highlighted some positives from the planning.
“The North wall area around the car park has been declared a Recreation Reserve. This has huge implications for long-term public access.

“The SEMP or Shoreline Erosion Management Plan is underway to understand and then develop a plan to stop erosion and replenish our beautiful beach. This is so important.

“Significant increase in the environmental reserve which separates the sand mining operations and natural dunal systems and the flora and fauna in those areas.

“While we might not have got everything we wanted, this is still a huge win for all of us in this group. It's a win for the turtles; it's a win for the ecosystems that exist in the beautiful bush behind our beach, and it's a win for all of us who use and love that little bit of Paradise we call Northwall.

“So to everyone on this page, nearly 2800 of you, give yourself a clap and a pat on the back for getting involved and making a difference, for without all of you and the noise we made, this would not necessarily be the outcome we got.”

NQBP said that a separate project is also underway to develop a Shoreline Erosion Management Plan (SEMP) for North Wall Beach which is required before any coastal works can occur in the area.
Information on the project, including the preliminary design layout and online survey is available on the project page on NQBP’s website.
Mentioned on its project website, NQBP says “During the construction phase, every effort will be made to minimise disruption to the community, however at times it may be necessary to restrict public access to the North Wall beach recreational area to ensure safety. Stay tuned for updates on social media.”

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Community member Mick DePinto, NQBP CEO Brendan Webb, NQBP Hossein Saadai and NQBP Board Director Lynn Smart
Conceptual plan map of North Wall
Proposed design elements

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Do the kids need a back-to-school refresh?

Little Treehouse Lane, upstairs in Caneland Central, has lunchboxes, lunch bags, drink bottles, snack containers, backpacks and more!

From the super cool sparkly Munchboxes to Montiico insulated food jars, Subo food bottles for the little sippers and Bento cups to divide the food for the fussiest of eaters, there’s something for every age and stage!

Check out the range online or visit the team in Caneland Central, upstairs opposite Snap Fitness! (Little Treehouse Lane has moved across the laneway, opposite its original location, into a bigger and brighter space).

Check out online back to school here: https://tinyurl.com/LTHLBTOS

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Almost all Queensland children will experience at least one RSV infection by the time they turn two, with the virus the most common cause of hospitalisations among infants and young children.

The highly contagious virus attacks the lungs and can spread quickly, particularly between little ones.

The State Government will invest $31.06 million to rollout a free Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) immunisation program to more than 70,000 newborn babies, eligible infants and young children.

While RSV can infect people of all ages, newborn babies and young children have tiny airways and what may seem like a cold, can rapidly turn severe, causing a range of respiratory illness including bronchiolitis or pneumonia.

Minister for Health, Mental Health and Ambulance Services and Minister for Women Shannon Fentiman said, “We know caring for a little one can already be a stressful time for parents and this is an important step to help reduce the risk of contracting RSV and keeping our most vulnerable out of hospital.”

This year alone around 7,000 cases of RSV have been recorded in Queensland, which is double the number of cases in 2023 between the same period, 1 January to 24 March.
More than 2100 of the cases recorded so far this year are children under two years of age.

Last year, nearly 29,000 RSV cases were recorded. Of these, 9,703 cases were recorded among children under two years and hospital admissions accounted for more than 5,000 occupied paediatric bed days, of which 3,525 were for infants under one year of age.

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Free immunisation against RSV will be available for newborns, eligible infants, and young children

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As we proudly mark our 27th anniversary in Sarina, First National Real Estate reflects on nearly three decades of dedicated service to this growing community. Originating as Honeycombes Sarina in 1995 and later joining the esteemed First National family in 1998, our journey has been defined by a steadfast commitment to professionalism and integrity.
Throughout the years, our reputation as one of Australia's largest real estate networks has been built upon a foundation of trust and reliability. Clients have consistently turned to us for their needs, knowing that choosing a well-established and reputable agency provides assurance and peace of mind during every step of the buying, selling, or renting process.
What truly sets us apart is our local expertise. While we are part of a national network, our local office operates with a deep understanding of the Sarina market. This localised knowledge allows us to accurately price properties, navigate local regulations, and provide tailored advice that meets the unique requirements of our clients. Our team members aren't just real estate professionals; they're integral members of the Sarina community, deeply invested in its growth.
We are deeply committed to supporting the fabric of Sarina itself. From sponsoring local organisations and sporting clubs like the Sarina & District Netball Association, Sarina Bowls Club, Sarina Pony Club and Sarina Equestrian Vaulting Team, just to name a few, to backing vital community institutions such as the RACQ CQ Rescue helicopter, Ronald McDonald Family House and Kids Help Line.
Beyond sponsorship, we engage in community events and support local initiatives, promoting growth in Sarina and beyond. As we celebrate, we thank the Sarina community for their trust over the past 27 years. Looking forward, we anticipate many more years of collaboration and success together. Contact (07) 4943 1616 us if you would like to learn more

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The Sarina Hospital on Brewers Road has officially opened its doors, marking a milestone in healthcare accessibility for the region. Health Minister Shannon Fentiman, who attended the inauguration, emphasised the significance of the upgraded facilities, including an expanded emergency department, larger consultation rooms, and a purpose-built rehabilitation facility with a spacious gym.
"It's got more beds, an expanded emergency department, a rehab gym, and new staff accommodation," Minister Fentiman said.
"We're proud to announce that the new Sarina Hospital is the first rural hospital in Queensland to be fully digital, using the ieMR digital medical system," she added. "This innovative digital infrastructure replaces traditional paper patient charts, enhancing communication between departments and hospitals and improving overall patient care."
Executive Director Public Health and Rural Services, Terry Johnson, praised the Sarina project team for their dedication in ensuring a smooth transition. "This is an exciting time for our Sarina Hospital staff who have done an amazing job in preparing for this transition," Ms. Johnson commented.
The opening of the new Sarina Hospital represents a significant step forward in delivering quality healthcare closer to home. With its modern facilities and cutting-edge digital infrastructure, the hospital is poised to meet the evolving healthcare needs of the community. The ceremony also heralded plans for the redevelopment of the former Sarina Hospital site at 1 Hospital Street. Minister Fentiman announced a further $10.4 million investment to transform the former building into a long-stay health facility. Set to commence in May 2024 and scheduled for completion by mid-2025, this redevelopment aims to bolster healthcare capacity in the region.

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Health Minister Shannon Fentiman (centre) was at the official opening of Sarina’s new hospital on Brewers Road. Photo supplied

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To celebrate the incredible 19-year journey of Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank, we are hosting a Celebration of Community Anniversary Dinner. Together, let's acknowledge our shared achievements and toast to continued collaboration for many years to come supporting our community.

Join us for an unforgettable evening on 8 June 2024, at the Bob Wood Cultural Hall in Sarina. Doors open at 5:30pm for an event filled with style. In semi-formal attire, anticipate delicious food crafted by Sinful Kitchen, featuring welcome canapés and a two-course dinner. The bar will be stocked with beverages to complement your evening. Tickets are $90 per person, with RSVPs requested by 12 May 2024. Gather your friends, colleagues, or community group as tables of 8 are available for reservation. Let's join forces to celebrate what’s great about where we live and the vibrant essence of our community!

Featuring Shane Webcke as our keynote speaker - a true example of community leadership and resilience. From sports to farming, family life to business, his life story, vividly told in his autobiography "Warhorse," reflects his unwavering commitment to safety advocacy, because of the tragic loss of his father to a workplace incident.

In "Warhorse", Shane shares the highs and lows of his football career and farm management, alongside the profound impact of personal loss. Through his experiences, he emphasises the importance of resilience and community support.

Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate this milestone for the Community Bank Sarina, book your tickets today at bit.ly/communitydinner2024

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The Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Foundation (QATSIF) extends a warm congratulations to students from Sarina State High School, who have now joined an outstanding collective of 4290 QATSIF students.

QATSIF provides educational scholarships to assist Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. The foundation also funds $500 each semester across Years 11 and 12 to assist with essential educational costs such as school fees, uniforms, excursions, subject levies and VET courses etc. The foundation aims to support students on a pathway to success despite financial constraints.
The 16th Round of QATSIF Scholarships is set to open in May, presenting another opportunity for eligible Year 10 and 11 students across Queensland to apply.
Schools will receive application forms, and interested students and parents are encouraged to talk with their school about applying for a QATSIF Scholarship.

Congratulations to these Sarina State High School students who are now collectively part of 4,290 other QATSIF students

Sarina Student Receives $5,000 QCoal Bursary For Uni

Introducing Emily Wright, the recipient of a $5,000 bursary from the QCoal Foundation to pursue her studies in Education at JCU: James Cook University, Australia.
Hailing from Sarina, Emily demonstrates a profound dedication to enhancing education in rural and regional communities.
She recognises the pivotal role of educational opportunities in fostering resilience within Queensland's regional and remote areas. The Foundation shares Emily's sentiment wholeheartedly and extends sincere congratulations to her on this achievement.
This year, in addition to its annual $30,000 scholarship, the Foundation has awarded three additional $5,000 bursaries to deserving students for their studies at JCU.

Emily Wright, recipient of $5,000 bursary from the QCoal Foundation to pursue her studies

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In just 24 hours, Eva, a tiny, frightened kitten, has shown a remarkable, yet rapid transformation in character and health after arriving at Mackay Pet Rescue Inc.
On arrival, Eva was extremely lethargic and weighed only 364 grams, raising high concerns among the staff and volunteers, which prompted preparations to implement fading kitten protocols - a last resort for kittens in critical condition.
Despite her chronological age of five-weeks-old, she remained the size of a three-week-old kitten, highlighting an alarming development issue.
Eva's turnaround since arriving at Mackay Pet Rescue Inc has been astonishing to see for both the rescue team and locals alike. Instead of shutting down in fear, she is now ‘full of happy beans’ and joyously exploring her surroundings. The stark contrast from her state just a day prior speaks volumes about the dedication and care she has received from the staff and volunteers at the rescue organisation.
Although she is currently thriving, Eva's journey is far from over. Despite her improved condition, she still has significant milestones to achieve in terms of her health and development. As she continues to grow under the loving care of Mackay Pet Rescue Inc, close monitoring remains essential to ensure she reaches milestones successfully.
When she has attained the necessary levels of health and strength will she be deemed ready for pre-adoption, where she can continue her journey towards a bright and promising future in the loving care of a new family.

Showcasing the remarkable transformation, Mackay Pet Rescue Inc posted to Facebook, in awe, “Look at the difference 24 hours in care makes.

“This is another fantastic save.”

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Image of little Eva, frightened and weak vs her 24-hour healthy and happy transformation in care. Images sourced from Mackay Pet Rescue Inc (Facebook).

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If it’s pink, you are in luck, and tonight is your night to shine.

Tonight is a massive night for sporting fans in Mackay. It’s a night to get your pink on and have some loud fun at Mackay Basketball on Juliet Street because our top-level competition, the NBL1 North comp starts up, and tonight is the night you don’t want to miss.

Our Meteors and Meteorettes start their 2024 campaign against Townsville, and we want to fill the stadium, make more noise than ever before, and start the year off in style.

We’ve got a stack of great players coming back for this season including Chelsea Brook and Samantha Haiby for the Meteorettes, and Todd Blanchfield and Emmanuel Malou for the Meteors, so you know it’s going to be a star-studded year of fun at Candlestick Park!

If you’ve never been to a game before, just think of a big room, lots of music, heaps of fun, a basketball game to watch, and a great night to be had. That’s what this season will be and more. I reckon we’ve got what it takes to take the title this year, but we need you to join us.

I’ll be the crazy one on the microphone having some fun with you in the crowd, so I reckon you’re mad if you don’t come along.

Tonight is also a wonderful night to come down, because it’s a pink night fundraiser for the McGrath Foundation so they can get more breast care nurses on the ground in the Mackay region. We have two, but we need more.

So tonight, will be a pink night, with pink hair, pink shirts for sale, raffle tickets, pink basketballs, pink players jersey’s being auctioned after the games with all funds going to help the McGrath Foundation do the great work, they continue to provide many women battling this horrible disease.

Over the years we’ve had Jason Borg, legend of the Meteors come dressed in a pink wig! There’s even been local superstar Graeme Connors, adorned with pink singing our national anthem. That’s all been done in the past. What will happen tonight? We are only hours away.

Plus, the ladies are playing for the annual Shelley Rutland Memorial Trophy as this Mackay – Townsville rivalry continues.

I hope to see you down there tonight for a great night of fun. I may even wear my pink suit again!

You can join Rob Kidd from 5am weekday mornings on 4MK 1026 AM in Mackay and Proserpine, 91.5FM in Airlie Beach or just ask your smart speaker to play 4MK on iHeartRadio!

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You don’t hear the term “Chinaman” much these days.
It was fairly common some decades ago in Australia and you used to hear it in Hollywood Westerns, usually describing some poor old pony-tailed gold-fossicker from the Orient.
It was a dismissive term with racist undertones/overtones and has largely disappeared from the language.
Serious cricket fans will also be familiar with the term “chinaman”, a word formerly used to describe a “googly” or “wrong-un” delivered by a left-arm spin bowler.
The “chinaman” has disappeared from cricket commentary due to the same racial aspect that has driven it from more general use. Unfortunately, the loss of the word means there doesn’t seem to be a simple word to label that specific cricket delivery, so they need to come up with something new.
The fishing community does not seem willing to make the same sacrifice and the Chinaman fish lives on in the vernacular of that politically incorrect group of renegades.
Of course, other words and terminology have been lost, removed or simply disappeared from the English language, generally, and Australian English specifically.
Most of the words are racist and are associated with terrible racial practices. Our language has evolved and many words are, rightly, no longer used.
It becomes more controversial when the names of consumer products are changed as corporations avoid controversy associated with racist, sexist or homophobic terms.
Witness the controversy over the change of name from Coon cheese despite the name not having any connection with the racist term. Cheer cheese just isn’t the same.
Other product names have disappeared: Red Skins are now called Red Rippers, Chicos are Cheekies and, as for Fags … well they were a disaster on several levels; homophobic lollies that promoted smoking. They’re now called Fads and no longer have the distinctive red tip.
People will have their views about name changes and there is a constant tussle between the politically correct and those who resist PC moves.
But there are other traditional Aussie words and phrases that are simply disappearing because they have gone out of fashion.
Witness rascal, sheila, strewth, cobber … common words you hardly hear any more. Larrikin is hanging in there but is seriously under threat.
While I like those words because they are part of our character and are essential to understanding our culture, the real estate industry is full of words and terminology that have had their day and should be quietly put out of their misery.
There are the classics: “Renovator’s Delight”,  which is putting a positive spin on a property that is a terminal disaster, an unlivable junkyard; “Cute”, which means it is an amazingly small house with no room for visitors; “Charming Cottage”,  which tells you it is an old-fashioned little place that is overdue for an update, “Location, Location, Location”, which tells you it is a property with very little going for it in terms of features and space and is possibly situated on a busy road but it is in a central part of town.
The list goes on; something is “cosy” not small, a bathroom is “fully functional” not extremely basic and unrenovated, and I imagine a “family friendly estate” is one of those ones where the neighbours don’t turn up at your door-step wanting to kill your kids but instead say: “Strewth cobber, I’ve got a sheila and a cuppla billy lids of me own”.

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Kucom Theatre recently welcomed a new management committee last month on Tuesday March 26 at its AGM.
Outgoing President Bronwyn Grannall paid tribute to two valued Kucom members; Life Member and past President Joe Clutterbuck, and former Patron and Honorary Member Kevin Casey, both of whom passed away within the past few months.
2023 Committee members were recognised for their hard work and dedication during the year along with the individual donors and corporate sponsors who had made it possible for Kucom to purchase and install the new retractable seating system.
Kucom Theatre is delighted to announce that Mayor Greg Williamson took over as Kucom Patron after Kevin Casey retired in 2020 and he has now been confirmed as Patron for the upcoming year.
Kucom’s next production is a psychological thriller by Constance Cox, The Murder Game, directed by Maureen Coleman. The cast includes Dennis Rozekrans, Carolyn Roche, Michael Brennan and Lani Seaton.
The Murder Game opens on Thursday 11 April for a two-week season, with performances on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings at 7.30pm and a matinee at 2pm on Sunday 14 April.
Bookings can be made at https://events.humanitix.com/the-murder-game
Kucom’s Festival of Arts Fringe event will be The Appleton Ladies’ Potato Race, by Australian playwright Melanie Tait, directed by Luana Royle, followed in October by David Williamson’s Family Values, directed by Kristyn Everett.
For more information, please visit the Kucom Theatre Facebook page.

Front row: Maureen Coleman (President), Jayne Royal (Vice President), Asta Ryan
Back row: Tessa King (Treasurer), Hayley Long, James Hunter
Inset: Carolyn Roche (Secretary). Photo supplied

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The winner of the 2024 BMA River 2 Reef Ride Youth Art Competition was the talented Naiya Luczynski from Moranbah State High School. Her captivating design, inspired by the diverse landscapes of Mackay, won the hearts of both event followers and the community.

Alongside Naiya, finalists Amelia Webber from Holy Spirit College Mackay and Abbie Boulton from Sarina State High School were also recognised for their exceptional designs.

Naiya shared her inspiration behind the design, stating, "My design is inspired by the beauty and diverse landscapes of Mackay. Where community seeks connection, not only to others but also nature. Where people, including our cyclists, seek adventure and get immersed in local beauty.

In addition, the BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival proudly announces that it has raised over $50,000 in 2023 for its two local beneficiaries, RACQ CQ Rescue and Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay.

The annual cycling festival took place on 7 and 8 October 2023 and attracted participants from across the region, all pedalling for a cause. The funds raised will be directly contributed to support the critical services provided by RACQ CQ Rescue, a vital aeromedical rescue service, and Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay, an organisation dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities through sports and recreational activities. 

Linda Murry, General Manager of BMA’s (BHP Mitsubishi Alliance) Hay Point Coal Terminal, expressed her pride in both the jersey design as well as the community's efforts and the impact they have made.

"The BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival has raised over $50,000 for our local beneficiaries in 2023.

"Naiya's design beautifully encapsulates the spirit of the Mackay region, showcasing its natural beauty and sense of community.

“We are thrilled to see her talent recognised and are proud to have her design featured on this year's BMA River 2 Reef Ride Cycling Jersey.

“BMA is deeply committed to supporting the well-being of our local community, local events, and not-for-profit organisations in the region.”

RACQ CQ Rescue provides critical aeromedical services to the community, ensuring that those in need receive rapid and efficient medical assistance, while Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay empowers individuals with disabilities to engage in physical activities and improve their overall well-being.  

Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay’s Program Coordinator Peter Sumptor said valuable donations will go towards coordinating and facilitating recreation activities both in and out of the Mackay region for their athletes.

“Activities such as supporting local disabled athletes in the Wheelchair Basketball Team, the "Mackay Machines", to attend and participate in wheelchair basketball tournaments outside of Mackay, as well as support our local programs such as the Wheelchair Dancers, "Strictly Wheelchair" and Friday Fun sport-based games and socialising,” says Peter.

The BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival has become a flagship event in the region, promoting community spirit, health, and charitable giving.

2024 BMA River 2 Reef Ride Sponsors, Youth Artist Finalists and representatives from RACQ CQ Rescue and Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay. Image supplied
Youth Art Finalist and Winner: Naiya Lucynski’s cycling jersey design. Image Supplied
Amelia Webber and Abbie Boulton were also recognised for their outstanding designs. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
The BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival proudly announces that it has raised over $50,000 in 2023 for its two local beneficiaries, RACQ CQ Rescue and Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay.

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By Hannah McNamara

On May 18, a candle lighting vigil will be held, in honour and remembrance of the lives of those who were devastatingly taken in an abrupt act of domestic and family violence.

Broken Ballerina Inc will hold the special event at Eimeo Surf club by the beach, commencing from 5pm, gathering locals, supporters and survivors alike to pay respects to the innocent lives that were cut short in an attempt to raise awareness of the rising issue.

Broken Ballerina Inc is a non-for-profit charitable organisation, founded by Jules Thompson who is a powerhouse advocate in the community. Her realism and determination for change in the matter of domestic violence acts as a blueprint to the community after she fled from multiple life threating situations in her own experiences, which has led her to be a current supporting voice for many.

With first-hand knowledge on the subject of domestic violence, Jules uses her past experiences to uplift and support those who are going through similar situations. Her ability to constantly provide for individuals and families in desperate need of compassion and safety is what makes Broken Ballerina Inc so vital in the community.

Founder of Broken Ballerina Inc, Jules said, “We wish to acknowledge the women, men and children who have been victims of domestic homicide in this past year.

“Come and join us to pay tribute to those who lost their lives due to another person’s immaturity, insecurity and who chose not to respect nor value their victims right to live.

“Please lock this important date into your calendar, we hope to see you all there.”

There will be guest speakers sharing their insights and experiences on the night, followed by a candle lighting ceremony to commemorate the list of precious souls who were brutally murdered in the act of domestic and family violence.

This event is FREE to the public, featuring local favourites, Mango Junction who will play live throughout the evening with food and drinks also available.

Whilst this event can be overwhelming to attend for some, it is crucial to remember the importance of coming together, listening to the raw stories of survivors and sharing your experiences with others, in light that you are not alone and there is help and hope for your future.

If you are in need of support or you would like to donate, please visit www.brokenballerina-inc.com.au - or call 000 in an immediate emergency.

What: Candle lighting vigil
Where: Eimeo Surf Club
When: Saturday, May 18, from 5pm

Light a candle by the beautiful ocean side view as we commemorate the lives of those tragically taken due to domestic violence
Broken Ballerina committee members Jules and Pete Thompson, Maree Sturdy, Hannah McNamara and Sgt Rowena Lacey with Whitsundays MP Amanda Camm at last year’s Candle Lighting Vigil

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Sarina Sugar Shed. Photos by The Wilde Collective

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