In our ‘Out And About’ segment with Tourism Whitsundays, we showcase the team and share how connected they are with local tourism.

In this feature Jade Richardson, from Tourism Whitsundays invites you along with her as she takes trips around our beautiful region and shares her experiences with you.

Her most recent visit included a trip for her and her family to Daydream Island Resort and Living Reef.

With the staff’s exceptional hospitability and service, they all felt like a VIP from the first welcome and throughout their stay.

Their days were filled with activities such as table tennis matches, the Cockatoo Kids Club, fish feeding, underwater exploration, close encounters with rays at the living reef and snorkelling at Lovers Cove.

On relaxing days they enjoyed refreshing dips in the pool, and for the adults taking some well-deserved relaxation at the swim-up bar.

Evenings involved, sunset strolls around the island, unwinding in their luxurious poolside rooms, enjoying movies and delightful room service or with a delectable alfresco dinner overlooking the water at Salti.  

Jade said it was a truly unforgettable family-friendly experience, showcasing the stunning beauty of the Whitsunday Islands. 

For more exciting outings, keep an eye on Tourism Whitsundays Facebook page. And if you're considering joining Tourism Whitsundays, reach out to Jade at Jade.richardson@tourismwhitsundays.com.au to start your journey today. 

Daydream Island.
Jade Richardson
Photos Supplied

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Did you know you can claim a tax deduction for putting up to $27,500 into your super? That means if you put say $10,000 into your super, you could get a tax refund of up to $4,700 depending on what you earn.

Tax deductible contributions into super are taxed at 15% on the way into the fund.  You then claim them as a tax deduction in your personal income tax return and if you’re earning between $45,000 and $120,000 than you get a personal tax refund of 34.5%.  

If you’re earning under $45,000 the refund is 21% and if earning over $120,000 it’s 39%. That’s pretty handy, it’s like the government giving you an immediate return of 6% to 24% on your money on top of any actual interest it earns. On top of that you’ve put it away where it should grow to fund a good retirement lifestyle, smart.

As always, the devil is in the detail so get some advice. The $27,500 is the current annual cap on tax deductible contributions but remember these include the compulsory super your boss pays in. From 1st July that annual cap goes to $30,000 for the new financial year.  

If you super balance is under $500,000, you may also have the option to make ‘catch up concessional contributions’. This allows you to make up for the last 5 years unused concessional contribution cap. I.e., if you’ve only had $10,000 go in per year the extra, unused $17,500 carries forward and you could make a huge contribution in one year.  

Your accountant can run a simple ATO report showing what you’ve got available in catch up contributions or you can get it from your MyGov if you have the ATO linked.  

As of 1st July 2024, any unused cap from the 2018 Financial Year drops off so you should at least consider catching that up before 30th June, or it’s gone. This is especially true for self-employed people who often neglect their super, which can come back to haunt them at retirement.

The key to making big financial decisions, just like making a big purchase, is doing your homework. You wouldn’t buy a boat or caravan without some research. How much is your boss paying in? What about Salary Sacrifice? What is your carried forward allowance? Are you confident your existing super fund is good value and is getting a good return?  

These are the sort of things that financial planners will work out, often with the assistance of your accountant. They should also provide some guidance around the right investment choice within your existing super or recommend a better super fund if required. Start the conversation now so you have time to make a good decision before 30th June. Plenty of people get caught each year by leaving it too late.

If you think you could benefit from a discussion with a Financial Planner, give us a call on 49467359 of visit www.eclipsefp.com.au. There’s no obligation, the first meeting is free and all fees are spelled out clearly in advance.

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We get it, no matter what industry, we are all time poor. However, it’s time to get our collective heads out of our a!#ss and stop rewarding ‘busyness’. Why? Because today’s society pays homage and respect to those who are busy – we celebrate it, it’s one of the first questions we ask. “How are you? You busy?” However, for many, ‘busyness’ is a waste of time and doesn’t get much done.
 
We need to start rewarding effectiveness, not just random ‘busyness’. Busyness is one’s ability to run around making a lot of comments, noises, disruptions but not really getting much done. Effectiveness is the opposite – we plan, we implement, and we work methodically towards an outcome.
 
How do we turn a culture around and stamp out ‘busyness’? By being clear and consistent in our communication and directions, ensuring team members understand what their outcomes for each day, week and month are. 
 
Perhaps you are in a role which is 50% reactive and cannot be planned out due to phones, customers, breakdowns etc. Understanding what percentage of each day / week can actually be planned for ensures we create realistic workloads and don’t burn out our most loyal workers. Step back and identify reactive vs proactive roles in your business. Which ones can have planned outcomes and which ones need space for reactive tasks. 
 
Understanding and identifying these differences ensures you can set your team up for success by planning for only the portion that can realistically be planned for. Your team members will be able to leave with a sense of achievement each day rather than overwhelmed and de-motivated.
 
And instead of rating people on how busy they are – whether team-mates, colleagues or friends – let’s lead with “How are you today? You’re looking well.

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With locals giving feedback, the Bowen Jetty’s future is shaping up to be what the community wants.

Current CEO of North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP), Brendan Webb, asked the community how they would like to use the jetty, what improvements are needed and if they have ideas for the future.

He said, “Eight key themes were consistently raised through our engagements; amenities, history, accessibility, education, ecology, fishing, recreation and commercial activities.”

“We are also building our understanding of the cultural values of significance of the jetty through regular engagement with Juru Elders and representatives of the broader Juru community.

“Emerging themes from our conversations include the protection and preservation of local marine life and their habitat and acknowledging the Juru people’s history and their connection to Sea Country.”

The project team is now reviewing all the feedback for consideration in the design development.

“We will prioritise what is important to locals and how the Bowen Jetty can meet the community needs for generations to come,” Mr Webb said.

In June, two design options will be presented to the community for further feedback.

The refurbishment of Bowen Jetty is possible due to the Queensland Government, in June 2023, allocating $50 million, to ensure the Bowen Jetty remains safe and accessible to the public.

NQBP are responsible for the jetty’s refurbishment.

During an assessment of the jetty, studying its condition, identifying refurbishment, and comparing refurbishment to rebuilding the structure, it was found that they would exceed the $50 million if they were to conduct whole-of-life repairs.

With those plans exceeding the $50 million budget, an initial refurbishment could be achieved within the budget allocated, but over time, further enhancements and refurbishments would exceed this.

After hearing from local residents, business operators, community groups, school students, elected representatives and tourism operators, NQBP are working on designs that the community will approve of whilst also sticking within their budget.

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North Queensland Bulk Ports pop up at the Multicultural Fair
Bowen Wharf enquiry by Design Workshop
Photos Supplied

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Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Crowds from all over the region visited the Bowen Come n Try event last weekend, some visitors from as far afield as the Burdekin and Mackay regions.

Families and children enjoyed the many activities on offer, one of the most popular was the Wildlife Whitsundays pop-up and the fun train ride.

The drumming class was also an exciting activity.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said it was great to see such a big crowd attended the Try Bowen Event.

“There were people of all ages and everyone seemed to enjoy themselves.”

“It was pleasing that so many people travelled from Airlie Beach and the Burdekin to take part.

“We thank Whitsunday Regional Council for hosting the event in Bowen.”

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Photo credit: Daniel Heggie and Whitsunday Regional Council

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TO VOTE FOR YOUR FAVOURITE, CLICK HERE

https://take.quiz-maker.com/poll5149571xbCc94a53-155

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Winner will be chosen and announced on 1st of May

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Sometimes you have to be cruel to be kind.
Plucking little seedlings out of the ground, roots and all, is something I still struggle with today but it is essential for a strong, pest and disease free vegetable garden.

Over planting is going to reduce air flow, encourage fungal growth, cause root competition and prevent foliage from being exposed to sunlight which is needed to dry off moisture and will reduce your plant’s ability to produce starches and sugars that give your vegetables flavour.

If you have planted from seed (as I always do), chances are you have too many seedlings popping out of the ground.  

It is easy to get caught out planting from seed. There are more seeds in a packet than you need, so the temptation is to be liberal and throwing in a few extras too close together is inevitable (unless you are extremely self-disciplined). Don’t stress, this is not a terrible practice as it enables you to thin out the weakest seedlings, leaving you with a plethora of strong plants.

So, cull now! Well, cull if they have their second set of leaves.
Imagine that seedling fully grown. Give it space from its companions. Look for the one that seems to be the strongest and remove any others around it.
This is the child you get to pick! And nurture to maturity. Choose well.

Be careful not to disturb the roots of seedlings you want to keep. Sometimes it’s unavoidable, so make sure you water your garden bed after you have completed the removal of additional plants, as this helps them settle into the soil again and remove any large air pockets that you may have created.  

Your new seedlings will grow very quickly, this makes them hungry feeders. They are going to require more assistance now than they will for the rest of their growing and producing lives. They’re going to need protection from the Whitsunday’s intense sunlight, on our blue sky beautiful days, which are numerous as we head into the picturesque Whitsunday winter. And they are going to require food themselves!

So, from three to four weeks out of the ground, I start liquid feeding with a weak solution of Seasol, once a fortnight.

I also use shade cloth over just about all of my garden beds - 25% shade cloth is optimal.
Not only does this assist in keeping the soil moist (yes, I hate that word too but it does describe the amount of water needed well), but it is also a fantastic barrier from pests, especially grasshoppers and cabbage moth!  I could not produce a successful patch without a shade cloth. Give it a go.

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By Amanda Wright

With the scent of fresh mountain dirt in the air as tyres tore through trails and the hum of wheels sliding across the high-speed pump track, the Finch Hatton Mountain Bike Trails were officially unveiled in a community ceremony last Sunday. This opening marked not just the inauguration of a new outdoor attraction, but the birth of a haven for mountain biking enthusiasts and the ticket to increased tourism potential for the Pioneer Valley beyond its natural assets.

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Members from the MAD Mountain Bike Club, Mackay Cycling Club, Mackay Cycles and Corry Cycles united for the official opening of the Finch Hatton Mountain Bike Trails. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

Riding High
Finch Hatton Mountain Bike Trails Officially Open

Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson, one of the many driving forces behind the Finch Hatton trail project, expressed his joy during the opening ceremony to see the vision of two men from the local mountain biking club come to fruition.

"It was a fantastic idea that came to the council in 2016. Iain Masters and the late Jeff Rafferty from MAD Mountain Biking Club saw the potential of our top end of the valley, and how it could be transformed into a world-class mountain biking destination,” Mayor Williamson said.

"The whole Council at that stage, including the officers, said that this is going to be a great thing for the valley.”

Mayor Williamson also acknowledged former councillor Justin Englert for being one of the project's most passionate spokespeople over his two terms in council, advocating for its advancement at every opportunity.

The collaborative effort of the community, local authorities, and stakeholders over the years transformed this vision into a reality, culminating in the development of world-class mountain bike trails.

Mayor Williamson emphasised the economic benefits of the trails, saying, "These trails will put Mackay on the national and international map as a mountain bike destination."

He also acknowledged the significant financial investments made by both the state government and the council, amounting to around 13 million over several years.

“It’s too much for one budget, but over six or so years, it’s possible,” he said.

Member for Mackay, Julieanne Gilbert, expressed her delight at the project's completion, noting, "It's a wonderful day to celebrate."

She also commended Mayor Williamson's vision and persistence in pushing the project forward, stating, "Mayor Williamson has been talking to the state government about stage two with our paths and trails funding."

Stage two, will be an 82-kilometre network that spans from Eungella to Finch Hatton and takes in Australia's longest stretch of subtropical rainforest. Planning and investigation works are underway and will continue until 2025. Construction is forecast to commence in 2026.

The day's festivities included market stalls, food vendors, and family-friendly activities, with the community invited to bring their bikes, have a go on the pump track and check out the fantastic trails that are open for everyone to use.

"This is a fantastic occasion for us as a community,” Mayor Williamson said.

He also highlighted the historical significance of the trailhead site, which was once part of the original Cattle Creek mill, now restored to serve as the administration building for future events.

"The trailhead site will be a place where you start and finish your mountain bike adventure and enjoy a family day out.

“Finch Hatton will be the best trailhead town in Australia.”

As riders of all ages geared up for an exciting day on the trails, the Finch Hatton Mountain Bike Trails became a hub of community spirit. The bustling opening day showcased the importance of shared passion in bringing this thrilling project to life.

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Representatives from Mackay Regional Council celebrated the official opening of the Finch Hatton Mountain Bike Trails. L-R: Cr Namarca Corowa, Cr Heath Paton, Cr Ash-Lee Johnson, Mayor Greg Williamson, Deputy Mayor Belinda Hassan, Cr Alison Jones, Cr Nathenea McRae, Cr Karen May. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

Mayor Greg Williamson and Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert revealed the plaque for the official opening of the Finch Hatton Mountain Bike Trails

The community enjoyed the festivities at Finch Hatton, strolling the markets or riding the pump track. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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In a momentous week for our beloved Mackay, we've witnessed the unveiling of two projects that herald a new era of prosperity and vitality for our region. With Prime Minister Albanese’s visit earlier this week, Mackay's Riverside Revitalisation Project was officially opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the new river pontoon, transforming what was once an industrial precinct into a vibrant hub for locals and visitors alike.
It's the start of a significant plan for River Street, which will eventually transform into a bustling precinct all the way to Binnington Esplanade and Town Beach, connecting the city's heart to our underutilised natural beauty.
But that's not all. Nestled amidst the verdant beauty of the Pioneer Valley, the Finch Hatton Mountain Bike Trails were also officially unveiled in a spectacle of excitement and anticipation. What began as a vision shared by two local mountain biking enthusiasts has blossomed into a world-class attraction, beckoning adventurers from far and wide to explore our natural wonders.
Beyond the ceremonial formalities of these unveilings lies an excited buzz: the economic windfall and renewed sense of purpose that these projects bring to our doorstep. As our region evolves and our tourism offerings expand, so too do the opportunities for growth and prosperity. It's a moment to reflect on how far we've come and to look forward with unbridled optimism to the possibilities that lie ahead.
Have a great week, Mackay!
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Amanda

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During the months of January and February, Harrup Park committed to supporting the Far North Queensland flood relief.

For every main meal served in the Bistro during this period, the venue pledged to donate $1 towards the cause.

This initiative stemmed from the aftermath of Cyclone Jasper, which devastatingly caused destruction to numerous residential communities in Far North Queensland last year.

Each main meal ordered by guests and members during January and February contributed directly to aiding those who were affected by the natural disaster. Together, through collective efforts, the venue managed to raise an impressive total of $5,177 for Operation ClubsCare, a significant contribution to ongoing flood relief within the region.

Participating in Clubs Queensland Operation ClubsCare was a source of immense pride for the venue. It not only demonstrated their commitment to supporting the community in times of need, but it also makes a tangible difference in the lives of those who were impacted by the cyclone.

Sharing this remarkable achievement to Facebook, Harrup Park stated, “We are proud to have participated in Clubs Queensland Operation ClubsCare and thank our wonderful members for their support!”

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Harrup Park raised a whopping $5,177 by donating $1 out of every main meal served to support the Far North Queensland Flood Relief. Image Sourced (Harrup Park Facebook)

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With an estimated 6,000 homeless defence personnel in Australia, the issue of veteran homelessness is a pressing concern that demands attention.
Shockingly, only 1.1% of veterans access homeless support services, compared to 3.4% of the general population. Current and former service personnel experience homelessness at a rate three times higher than the broader population, highlighting a significant issue that most are unaware of.
16-year-old cadet, Murray Macgroarty has taken on the mission to raise awareness and tackle the problem of defence veterans' homelessness head-on. His approach involves connecting resources, services and funds to veterans through a coordinated and comprehensive strategy.
‘Just Keep Marching’ symbolises the beginning of Murray's focused efforts to combat this pressing issue.
Driven by a deep desire to give back, Murray's inspiration has been fuelled by conversations with current serving members, diggers, community leaders such as Mayor Greg Williamson and the active support of organisations like the Mackay RSL and Finch Hatton RSL Sub Branches. Together, they aim to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who have sacrificed so much in defence of our country.
“There’s not a lot of recognition for veterans’ homelessness,” Murray remarked.
“Those guys wouldn’t think twice about stepping in front of a bullet for us - in the defence of our country, so we should have a solid think about how we can give back to them.”
To support the cause, Murray will be embarking on a 382-kilometer march around the Blue Water Trail with former veterans, locals and supporters, to not only raise awareness, but to call to action a solution in light of defence veterans' homelessness.
By coming along, or joining Murray on his march, individuals can play a crucial role in making a difference in the lives of veterans who have served our country with dedication and sacrifice. It's time to continue the march from where our veterans left off, ensuring that they receive the support and care they deserve.
There is a $5 admission fee that will go directly towards veterans in need. Those who are interested in participating are encouraged to come along and support the cause and what better way to start than by coming together over a home baked afternoon tea, symbolising the unity and camaraderie that defines our country’s legacy.

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16-year-old Murray Macgroarty will march an estimated 382-kilometers to raise awareness for veterans’ homelessness. Photos credit: Hannah McNamara

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Following the announcement of the Mackay Base Hospital expansion project and subsequent relocation of the Ronald McDonald Family Room in Mackay, Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) North Australia are proud to announce a major extension for their care of sick and injured children in the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsundays region.
The Charity has introduced the launch of the RMHC Hospitality Cart, operating at the Mackay Base Hospital to continue servicing families with sick and injured children when they need it most.
The RMHC Hospitality Cart delivers care items at no cost to sick or injured children and their families in the Children’s Wards including the Paediatric Ward, Paediatric Oncology Day Unit, Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU), Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), and more.
Samantha Baker, Community Engagement Executive for RMHC Mackay and the Whitsundays said, “we have an amazing team of volunteers every week and it’s filled by kind donations from the community as well as our three amazing sponsors on board, which really helps with purchasing all the items and making sure it’s fully stocked every single day.
“Any family member that has a child receiving treatment here can get items off the cart, it’s not just for the patient, but also for the family and siblings as well,” Samantha added.
“We have so many amazing toys, snacks and meals for families at no cost at all so that just takes a massive financial burden off them and gives them and their kids some things to do.”
In the last 12 months, over 4,730 families have been supported by the RMHC Hospitality Carts, with over 15,290 care items supplied.
Volunteers say that “the children’s faces light up like Christmas when they see the toys.”

Dr. Charles Pain, Chief Medical Officer, Mackay Base Hospital with Samantha Baker, Community Engagement Executive for RMHC Mackay
RMHC North Australia Hospitality Cart Volunteers Sue Bartlett and Sue Trask
Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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In the lead up to ANZAC Day, RSL Queensland launched its ‘Postcards of Honour’ initiative for the second year, encouraging Queensland’s youngest generation to express their personal connection to ANZAC Day through writing and illustrations.

Secretary of the Walkerston/Pleystowe RSL Sub Branch, Dan Peters paid St Johns Catholic Primary School a visit to share his stories and insights on ANZAC day while educating the students by answering their questions and teaching them about the importance of ANZAC Day.

Mr Peters said, “This activity of ‘Postcards of Honour’ gives the kids an insight on what it’s like to write to somebody during the War as well as what the families went through back then.

“I think it’s important that we keep reminding these younger generations of what these guys went through in World War I and World War II,” he added.

Year 4, St Johns Walkerston students eagerly wrote and designed their own personalised postcards to participate in a pretend send off, in recognition of the vital support that letters and postcards have played throughout Australia’s military history.

RSL Queensland State President Major General Stephen Day DSC AM said he was pleased to see the age-appropriate initiative continue and grow year-on-year, providing a meaningful opportunity for thousands of students across the state to remember those that went before us and how the past has impacted our futures.

“It may seem like a small gesture, but the postcards acts as such a meaningful keepsake and are truly valued by the veterans who receive them,” MAJGEN Day said.

For more information on how to get involved and to download your own ‘Postcard of Honour’, visit rslqld.org/postcards-of-honour.

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Year 4 students from St John’s Catholic Primary School in Walkerston penned their treasured postcodes in honour of ANZAC day.
Secretary of the Walkerston/Pleystowe RSL Sub Branch, Dan Peters
Creativity sparked as Year 4 students presented their wonderful postcard designs.
Photo Credit: Hannah McNamara

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“The Albanese Government promised programs to support the regions, but after almost two years there is nothing to show for it.”
These are the words of Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox who believes the Dawson community is suffering from the government’s failure to allocate grants for much needed community infrastructure projects.
“The Labor Government in Canberra has imposed a two-year funding drought on regional communities as a result of the Prime Minister’s decisions to abolish programs designed to strengthen rural, remote and regional Australia and a failure to deliver initiatives of their own,” Mr Willcox said.
He goes on to say that “right across the nation, regional councils and community organisations have been waiting more than 40 weeks since Labor opened the so-called Growing Regions Program, and over nine months later not one application has been approved and funded.”
“By failing to award grant moneys under this program, Labor is effectively stealing $300 million in much needed funding from the regions,” Mr Willcox added.
Mr Willcox said this is not the only program the government has failed to deliver, with not a single grant approved in the first assessment round of the $400 million Precincts and Partnerships program, undertaken in September/October last year.
“The Government is starving the regions of funding. Over Labor’s first two years in office, they have stripped more than $20 billion in infrastructure and programs from regional communities,” Willcox added.
“Labor has abolished or allowed to lapse important job and community building programs such as the Building Better Regions Fund, Community Development Grants, Regionalisation Fund, Roads of Strategic Importance Program, and the Stronger Communities Program, just to name a few.”
Willcox is currently developing a Dawson project register, and is strongly urging any community organisation, not-for-profit, or sporting club who does have a project in the works and has applied for this funding to contact his office and register their project to ensure they are the first to know about any current or future grant and funding opportunities that become available.
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“For anyone who would like to be added to this register, they can contact my office via email at Andrew.Willcox.MP@aph.gov.au.”

Opinion Piece

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