Queensland Government Extends Support for Greater Whitsunday Regional workforce collaboration Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) has welcomed the Queensland Government’s announcement of continued funding for the Greater Whitsunday Regional Jobs Committee (RJC), securing the program through to 2027. This extension confirms GW3 as the host organisation for the Regional Jobs Committee program until 2027 and reinforces the vital role the committee plays in aligning local industry needs, training pathways, and regional workforce development. The program is designed by locals, for locals, providing a coordinated approach to identifying unique skilling challenges and strengthening connections between industry, government, training providers and community organisations. The Greater Whitsunday RJC forms part of a statewide network of 12 Regional Jobs Committees operating from Cairns to the Gold Coast. Together, these committees deliver region-specific skilling and workforce solutions that respond directly to local needs and support long-term economic growth. Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) Chief Executive Officer, Ms Kylie Porter, said the commitment demonstrates the importance of proactive workforce planning as local industries continue to evolve. “We are delighted the Queensland Government is continuing to invest in regional workforce development through the RJC program. “This extension ensures we can keep driving a coordinated, industry-led approach to skills, training, and workforce attraction across Mackay, Isaac, and Whitsunday. Greater Whitsunday Regional Jobs Committee Chair, Ms Carissa Mansfield, said sustained funding provides important certainty for industry and partners. “Workforce remains one of the biggest challenges facing our region. The continuation of the RJC program means we can keep bringing local voices together to address barriers to training, participation, and business growth.” Member for Mackay, Mr Nigel Dalton, said the Queensland Government is committed to supporting strong regional jobs and skills development. “The Greater Whitsunday RJC is delivering real impact by strengthening local training pathways and helping businesses connect with the support they need. Extending this program through to 2027 ensures continued investment in regional jobs, industry alignment, and sustainable economic growth.” “This funding reflects our commitment to ensuring local people have access to local opportunities, and that regional communities are supported to thrive.” The Greater Whitsunday Regional Jobs Committee is proudly supported and funded by the Queensland Government.
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Mackay residents are being encouraged to put their hand up to help shape the future of the Bruce Highway, with Expressions of Interest now open for regional representatives to join the Bruce Highway Advisory Council. The State Government has opened applications for the next round of regional representatives, including one position for the Mackay Whitsunday region, as part of its commitment to improving safety, reliability and long-term planning along Queensland’s major north–south transport corridor. The Bruce Highway Advisory Council brings together regional representatives and industry experts to help inform priorities for investment and upgrades, including the $9 billion Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program and the development of a statewide Fatigue Management Strategy. Chaired by the Minister for Transport and Main Roads, the Council includes stakeholders from Pine River to Far North Queensland and plays a key role in identifying local issues and directing where funding should be prioritised. The six regional representatives will join five peak industry bodies on the Council, including the Royal Automobile Club of Queensland, Queensland Trucking Association, Queensland Farmers' Federation, Queensland Tourism Industry Council and the Local Government Association of Queensland. Regional representatives are appointed on a voluntary basis for a 12-month term and may reapply if they wish to continue. The government said the process ensured a diverse mix of local experience and industry expertise was brought to the table. Expressions of Interest are open for representatives from six regions, including Far North Queensland, North Queensland, Mackay Whitsunday, Fitzroy, Wide Bay Burnett and North Coast. Applications for the Bruce Highway Advisory Council close on the 23rd of January.
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Mackay To Become Specialist Cancer Service Hub The Queensland Government has confirmed major progress on its fully funded Hospital Rescue Plan, unveiling clear timelines for hospital upgrades and new facilities across the state — with Mackay set to benefit as part of a strengthened regional health network. The plan has reached a significant milestone, with masterplans finalised for key hospital projects including Townsville University Hospital, Toowoomba Hospital, Coomera Hospital, Redcliffe Hospital and Bundaberg Hospital, alongside confirmed planning details for major upgrades at hospitals across Queensland. The Government said the plan was introduced after inheriting what it described as a failed and under-funded health infrastructure program, which resulted in major delays, missing services and $7 billion in cost blowouts. Under the Hospital Rescue Plan, the government is delivering a coordinated and fully costed approach to hospital construction and upgrades, aimed at restoring health services and delivering urgently needed hospital beds across Queensland. While Mackay is not listed for a major hospital expansion under the current tranche of projects, the region is expected to benefit directly through the Queensland Cancer Plan, which will establish Mackay as one of several specialist cancer service hubs across the state. The network will support regional hospitals and improve access to cancer care for communities outside Brisbane. As part of the statewide plan, specialist cancer hubs will be established in Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Wide Bay, Darling Downs, Brisbane and the Gold Coast, helping reduce the need for patients to travel long distances for treatment. Across Queensland, the Hospital Rescue Plan will deliver at least 2,600 additional hospital beds through new hospitals, expansions and upgrades, representing the largest hospital infrastructure investment in the state’s history. Major hospital projects are already moving forward, including expansions at Townsville University Hospital, which will deliver at least 165 new beds by 2028, and Bundaberg Hospital, which is set to receive more than 200 new beds along with an expanded emergency department and improved maternity services by 2031. Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls said the government was focused on delivering hospital beds and services when Queenslanders need them most. "Our fully-funded Hospital Rescue Plan is delivering new and expanded hospitals, 2,600 new hospital beds and health services when Queenslanders need them most," Minister Nicholls said. "After Labor’s decade of decline that left the system in crisis and without a credible path to building the hospital beds needed, Queenslanders are starting to see the results of getting our hospital build back on track with masterplans, designs and construction moving forward. "We’ve put to bed the poor planning, delays and cost blowouts we inherited and we’re now delivering the hospital beds Queensland needs now and into the future." Queensland Health Implementation Lead Sam Sangster said extensive planning was underway to ensure hospital projects met the needs of local communities across the state. “These masterplans mark an exciting first step in the process where Queenslanders will begin to see work intensifying on sites across the state,” Mr Sangster said. “It’s important to take the time to properly plan these major projects to ensure we leave a lasting legacy through sustainable infrastructure that caters for staff, clinicians, patients and their families.” The Queensland Government said the Hospital Rescue Plan marked a turning point for health infrastructure delivery, providing certainty for communities like Mackay through improved access to specialist services and a stronger statewide hospital network.
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In celebration of 20 years, Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank has introduced an additional higher education scholarship as part of its Community Engagement Program, allowing more students to receive a share of $39,000. For eligible degrees and apprenticeships at CQUniversity in 2026, the program includes three $9000 scholarships for undergraduate degrees and two $6000 scholarships for apprenticeships, providing not only financial assistance but also opportunities for professional development and growth. Community Bank Sarina Board Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich highlighted Community Bank Sarina’s commitment to supporting local talent, describing the scholarships as “an ongoing investment in the personal growth and skills development of young people in our region, marking two decades of community impact." “Scholarships show students that their community is behind them, allowing them to stay close to family, friends and support networks while pursuing their studies and careers,” Ms Franettovich said. “This initiative creates opportunities for networking, mentoring and connection with local businesses - key elements in building a strong foundation for their future.” Higher education scholarships are available for a range of fields for those commencing their studies in 2026, including accounting, agriculture/agribusiness, business, digital media, environmental science, health, information technology, law, nursing, science and teaching. In addition, scholarships are offered for first-year apprentices in automotive engineering and technology, building and construction, electrical, manufacturing engineering and technology, hairdressing, horticulture, hospitality and mechanical trades. 2026 Community Bank Sarina CQUniversity Scholarship applications close 28 February. To find out more information and request an application pack, email executive@sarinacommunity.com.au.
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The Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre (MECC) has been awarded Gold for Business Event Venue at the Mackay Isaac Tourism Awards 2025, recognising the venue’s excellence in hosting business events, conferences, and corporate gatherings.
As the largest convention facility between Cairns and Brisbane, the MECC boasts a 1,090-seat auditorium, two plenary halls, four meeting rooms, a 100-seat studio, breakout areas, and an in-house professional conference organiser office.
Over the past year, the centre welcomed more than 80,000 visitors and hosted over 100 business events, including major gatherings such as the Australian Regional Tourism (ART) Conference, Queensland Country Women’s Association Annual Conference, Queensland Mining Awards, Institute of Public Works Engineering Australia (NQ) Conference, Resource Industry Network Professional Development Conference, and the Australian Sugar Milling Safety Conference.
Key innovations contributed to MECC’s recognition, including the launch of the MECC Event Portal, streamlining event planning, document sharing, and communication for clients. The venue also upgraded its PA system across major spaces for clearer, more reliable sound and implemented a strategic team restructure to enhance client experience and operational efficiency.
Customer service remains a hallmark of the MECC, with a 95% client satisfaction rating. Initiatives such as the MECC “SHOWTIME” program celebrate staff excellence and embed service standards, while real-time QR code feedback provides instant visitor insights.
Sustainability and inclusivity are also priorities, with biodegradable catering and waste-sorting stations, energy-efficient LED lighting, and accessibility upgrades including Companion Card ticketing currently underway.
Executive Manager Andrew Bobeldyk said, “It’s been a big year, and this award is a credit to our entire team. Their hard work, passion, and commitment to excellence are what make the MECC such a standout venue for business events in Queensland.”
Celebrating innovation, service, and professionalism, the award underpins the MECC as a leading venue and a must-visit destination for high profile events.
Tucked away in one of Andergrove’s most tightly held pockets, 13/42 Wattle Street is where architectural flair meets everyday functionality. Every inch of this remarkable home has been designed with purpose – offering the perfect sanctuary for families, professionals, and entertainers alike.
Behind the understated façade lies a home that truly delivers on all fronts: five generous bedrooms, four bathrooms (three ensuited), and a selection of indoor and outdoor living zones that flow seamlessly for both privacy and togetherness.
The heart of the home – the kitchen – is a culinary masterpiece. Boasting three ovens, including a steamer, a gas cooktop, and a built-in Miele dishwasher, this space has been curated for those who value both beauty and performance. Overlooking the dining and living areas, it effortlessly connects to the undercover patio, creating a true entertainer’s dream.
Attention to detail is evident everywhere – from the VeriShades in the dining area that filter light perfectly, to the 20kW solar system that keeps energy bills in check without sacrificing comfort. The air-conditioned garage/workshop adds flexibility for hobbyists or those working from home, while rear lane access and space for a shed make it as practical as it is polished.
Set within a boutique, secure enclave, this home provides peace of mind and a strong sense of community, yet remains only minutes from schools, shopping, and the Mackay Marina.
Whether you’re a growing family seeking space, a couple wanting room to host, or simply someone who appreciates quality craftsmanship, 13/42 Wattle Street promises a lifestyle upgrade in every sense.
At a Glance:
Contact Area Specialist Shirlz Russell today to experience it for yourself.
Photos supplied
Get ready! The Airlie Beach Festival of Music is back this weekend, and it’s set to be bigger than ever!
With more than 60 acts lighting up bars, cafes, and iconic venues across town, Airlie Beach transforms into one giant stage. Catch headline performances from Jessica Mauboy, Pete Murray, The Screaming Jets, Diesel, The Black Sorrows, Choirboys and more under the big tent at the Whitsunday Sailing Club.
This award-winning festival is the event in paradise. Tickets are still available, make sure you don't miss it!
For the first time in a long time Jessica Mauboy returns to a festival stage, and crowds in Airlie Beach will be the lucky ones to witness it.
Best known for her powerhouse vocals and warm stage presence, Mauboy first captured national attention on Australian Idol and has since become one of the country’s most celebrated artists. But despite her fame, she says it’s performing live that brings her the most joy.
“Being able to play live is my ultimate favourite. So, it’s an absolute honour and opportunity to be able to do that in Airlie Beach. I'm looking forward to that,” she said.
Festival-goers can expect a setlist spanning her full career, from early hits and soundtrack favourites from The Sapphires, through to fresh material like her latest single While I Got Time, which recently featured on Home and Away.
Mauboy said the inspiration behind the track came from a deeply personal creative brief.
“The intentional production was very intimate and just little harmonies here and there, just to kind of hear the guitar play, the emotions of the lyrics and the voice, is what we wanted," she expressed.
“I've never been a part of a project like that in my life. So this was really unexpected, but such a really warm project and sincere experience I've never been a part of.”
While she’s excited to headline the Airlie Beach main stage, Mauboy is equally passionate about supporting emerging talent through initiatives like Passport to Airlie, which provides opportunities for up-and-coming musicians to perform at future festivals.
“Our local stages are so important, so we need to take care of them, we need to nurture them. As much as the big stages outside are amazing. You always remember the beginning of it, and I still remember my first stage,” she said.
“The one thing I would say is learn from that experience. Learn from the stages. Learn from the people who build the stages from the ground up, and who create the festivals and take care of them.”
Hi Everyone,
You may notice something a little different about this edition of the paper – we have rebranded!
After five years with the same masthead, the team thought it was time to freshen up our look, and I’m sure you’ll agree the new cover really does pop! Inspired by our lush green hinterland and the Great Barrier Reef – where all four of our regional newspapers are located – we opted for a vibrant blue-green gradient.
You’ll also notice our brand name ‘LiFE’ is now more prominent. This is because we want people up and down the coast to easily identify one of our publications.
Plus, LiFE really resonates with us as a team – not only do we love life, we’re all about promoting the local lifestyle and delivering positive community news to the regions.
For more than five years, we’ve been dedicated to bringing back the community’s free voice in print, and next year I’m looking forward to broadening our scope even more.
As you know, newspapers aren’t just printed anymore – they’re experienced in many ways: holding a hard copy in your hand, scrolling through stories on Facebook, liking photos on Instagram, and heading online to read, watch and listen to the news.
As we continue to evolve, our journalists will also be updating our website daily and uploading breaking news as it happens across the region.
News moves fast – and even though we live in a relaxed regional town, so do we!
Our newly refreshed branding marks the start of a new era for us – one we’re really looking forward to sharing with all of you.
Rach
Quote of the Week: "You cannot get through a single day without having an impact on the world around you. What you do makes a difference and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make" (Jane Goodall)
Not all heroes wear capes, some crawl through storm drains.
When residents in Jubilee Pocket noticed a young curlew trapped in a storm drain and unable to escape for two days, they raised the alarm. Concerned for the bird’s wellbeing, the community reached out for help and Fauna Rescue Whitsundays volunteer Trent didn’t hesitate to answer the call.
Braving the heat and tight conditions, Trent crawled around 100 metres underground to reach the frightened curlew. After a tense few moments, he emerged safely with the little bird in his hands, tired and hot but unharmed.
The rescue has since captured the hearts of locals, serving as a reminder of the incredible dedication shown by the region’s volunteer wildlife carers.
Fauna Rescue Whitsundays posted on Facebook about the ordeal and thanked him for rescuing the curlew.
"These are the moments that remind us just how dedicated our community of wildlife heroes truly is," they said on the post.
The young curlew was released back into the wild and was spotted with a friend shortly after, a happy ending made possible by a local hero and caring community.
On Wednesday morning at 2.35am paramedics were called to Island Drive in Cannonvale after a woman suffered a head injury following an e-scooter incident.
Queensland Ambulance Service reported that the woman was taken to Proserpine Hospital in a potentially life-threatening condition.
Two hours later in Bowen, a woman in her 50s was taken to hospital following an e-scooter incident on Whitsunday Street around 4.35am.
She was transported to Bowen Hospital in a stable condition, suffering from chest pain.
Bowen is set to undergo a major transformation with the development of the Bowen Foreshore Master Plan, a long-term strategy designed to revitalise the town’s waterfront and strengthen its identity as a vibrant regional hub.
Stretching more than a kilometre along the coast, from the south-west edge of Mitchell Street to the Eddie McCane Place parklands, and including the Bowen Boat Harbour, Santa Barbara Parade, and Bowen Jetty, the plan outlines a vision to create a connected, inclusive, and sustainable foreshore precinct that celebrates Bowen’s character and community spirit.
The master plan aims to unite local stakeholders, guide future development, and deliver projects that generate long-term economic, social, and environmental benefits. By providing a clear yet adaptable framework, it positions Bowen to attract investment, secure grant funding, and advocate for initiatives aligned with Council and community priorities.
Aligned with the Whitsunday 2030 Economic Development Strategy, the plan focuses on revitalising the waterfront, stimulating tourism, and unlocking new opportunities for local businesses. Enhancements will include improved access and connectivity, greener public spaces, and vibrant social and cultural areas that encourage people to live, visit, and invest in Bowen.
A key element of the plan, Precinct 1: Leisure at the Shore, envisions a lively foreshore blending leisure, culture, and nature. Anchored by the new Bowen Jetty and the proposed Bowen Catalina Experience Centre, the precinct will feature family-friendly activities, dining, retail, and cultural attractions. Streetscape upgrades along Santa Barbara Parade will create a low-speed, pedestrian-friendly boulevard linking the foreshore with the town centre, enhancing walkability and local business activity.
Resilience and sustainability are central to the design, with strategies to mitigate climate change impacts such as sea-level rise and storm surges. The plan includes shaded areas, native vegetation, and strengthened seawalls that provide both protection and recreational opportunities.
Ultimately, the Bowen Foreshore Master Plan represents a community-driven vision, one that connects residents, businesses, and visitors through shared pride in Bowen’s heritage and optimism for its future. By balancing growth, sustainability, and identity, the plan will help shape a vibrant waterfront destination for generations to come.
The Airlie Beach Masterplan sets a bold vision for the future (Photo Source: Whitsunday Regional Council)
Whitsunday Regional Council has voted unanimously to reopen the popular Proserpine RV Rest Stop, marking a major win for local tourism and small business in the heart of Proserpine.
Located behind St Catherine’s Church on Main Street, the free 48-hour stopover will welcome fully self-contained vehicles from April to October each year, coinciding with the region’s dry season. The decision is expected to inject between $860,000 and $1.7 million annually into the local economy, as travellers spend on goods, services, and attractions around town.
Mayor Ry Collins said the move highlights Council’s ongoing commitment to strengthening regional tourism and supporting local business growth.
“Reopening the Proserpine RV Rest Stop makes good sense for our region as it’s a small investment with a big return,” Mayor Collins said.
“This initiative reinforces Proserpine’s role as a welcoming gateway to the Whitsundays and delivers a real boost for local shops, cafes and service providers.
“It’s about getting travellers to stop, explore and spend time and money in our town centres.
“We have been working with staff since late last year to explore how we could reopen the site in a more economical way while still delivering strong outcomes for the community.
“It’s great to now see that work paying off and this project moving forward.”
Division 3 Councillor John Collins said the unanimous 7–0 decision reflected the strong community support behind reopening the site.
“I’ve advocated strongly for the return of the RV Rest Stop because the community has been very clear that it works for Proserpine,” Cr Collins said.
“This is a win for our local business community, our tourism operators and the many volunteers who have worked hard to make visitors feel welcome here.
“Council’s unanimous 7-0 decision shows we’re united in backing projects that make a difference for Division 3 and for the broader Whitsundays.”
Under the plan endorsed at this week’s Ordinary Council Meeting, the Rest Stop will reopen in April 2026 with minor upgrades, improved signage, and a seasonal operating model designed to minimise wet-season maintenance.
Council will now move forward with the Development Approval amendment and finalise lease and operational arrangements ahead of the official reopening.
The upgraded Proserpine RV Rest Stop will re-open in April next year. Photo supplied
A local woman has sparked an incredible wave of community generosity after launching a fundraiser to support a young girl from Charters Towers living with Rett syndrome.
When Airlie Beach local Abby Duffin shared a simple Facebook post seeking raffle prizes for a fundraiser, she never expected the overwhelming response that followed.
“I’m shocked myself with how much it took off,” Abby said.
“I just wanted to do something to help Haven and her family. I grew up with them, they are basically family.”
Two-year-old Haven was diagnosed with Rett syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that affects only girls and causes severe impairments in movement and communication. While children with Rett maintain full understanding, their bodies slowly lose the ability to function.
“Haven is two and a few months, but she still can't talk and she can't walk either,” said Abby.
“The more I can make, the better it is for her future.
“Her mum, Shannon, is trying to get her to go to there's a therapy place in Brisbane, and there's like three weeks stints of intensive therapy for her to try and get her walking, or as close to walking as much as they can.”
Abby’s fundraiser will be held at Lola’s Bar, with a $5 entry fee and all proceeds going directly to Haven’s family to assist with travel, medical, and therapy costs. The night will feature live music, karaoke, and raffles with prizes donated by both local and national businesses.
“The support has been insane,” Abby said. “Mirage Whitsundays donated a two-night stay in a three-bedroom villa with a private plunge pool, Big4 offered a weekend getaway for Haven’s family, and even Australia Zoo got involved.”
Abby now has 12 major raffle bundles, and each are worth around $500 or more.
Abby said she will continue accepting donations and prizes right up until the event.
“It’s just blown me away how generous people have been,” she said. “This community really does rally behind people when it matters.”
Anyone wishing to contribute a raffle prize or donation can contact Abby via abbyduffin19@hotmail.com.
The fundraiser will take place at Lola’s Bar, on 21st November from 7pm til late. Attendees encouraged to come dressed in their coolest retro outfits for an evening of fun, music, and meaningful support.
Preparations are officially underway for the construction of the new Collinsville Community Hub, marking a major milestone for the town’s social and recreational future.
Whitsunday Regional Council has announced that the current Collinsville Community Centre will close after 26 November 2025 to allow site preparation and equipment storage to commence ahead of construction.
The new Community Hub is expected to provide a modern, versatile space that better meets the needs of residents, local groups, and visiting organisations. Once complete, it will serve as a central point for gatherings, meetings, and events—continuing the strong community spirit that Collinsville is known for.
To ensure activities can continue during the construction period, Council has arranged for community events to be temporarily relocated to the Collinsville Rugby League Clubhouse. This arrangement will ensure there’s room for local groups to meet and for social activities to continue uninterrupted.
Council say they are eager to see this long-awaited project move forward and will share updates as key milestones are reached, including the announcement of the successful tenderer and the commencement of construction.
Council also said they will provide construction dates, progress updates, and further details once the tender has been awarded.
The Whtisunday Regional Council urge residents to stay tuned as thye prepare to bring this exciting new community hub to life in Collinsville!
The new proposed Community Centre in Collinsville. Photo sourced: Facebook
Almost 12 weeks on from his disappearance, the search continues for 42-year-old Brett Breeze, with his family and friends greatly concerned for his welfare, spreading their love far and wide across the East Queensland coastline.
Brett was last seen leaving the Bowen Hospital on Tuesday, the 19th of August, wearing a blue fishing shirt, black shoes and black shorts with a khaki backpack. Shortly after he was last seen, his belongings including his shoes and phone were found on the right-hand side of Kings Road 20 meters into the clearing.
Since his disappearance, his family have established the Facebook page titled Missing Person Brett Breeze in an effort to gather details of his whereabouts and promote searches across the coastline and further inland.
Amanda Breeze has coordinated countless efforts into remote areas of the Whitsundays Shire, with one conducted just last week along the roads neighbouring Crofton and Cowrie Streets.
Many concerned locals have posted in the group to highlight areas where possible sightings have been reported and offer their assistance to Brett’s family through the flying of drones to covering remote waterways.
Brett has been described as Caucasian, approximately 180cm tall with auburn hair and blue eyes. If anyone has any information about his whereabouts, authorities are urging the community to contact Amanda on 0466 256 175, emergency services on 000, crime stoppers on 1800 333 000 or police link on 131 444.
At the time of print Brett Breeze is still missing.
Michael and Val Kimpton, originally from Melbourne, have quickly become familiar faces and community champions in Airlie Beach.
After successfully helping to revive the Airlie Beach Triathlon, the pair have turned their energy toward another cause, securing a Mobile Blood Bank for the Whitsundays.
In the 1970s, Michael received a life-saving blood transfusion after a serious accident, an experience that continues to inspire his passion for helping others.
Proserpine Hospital currently relies on blood supplies transported from Mackay. With blood having a limited shelf life — and only a small number of locals able to make the long trip south to donate — maintaining adequate supplies continues to be a challenge.
On Sunday 2 November, Michael and Val travelled to Mackay for a Cabinet meeting, where they presented their proposal to Queensland Health Minister Hon. Tim Nicholls, pledging their own financial contribution to help get the service off the ground before seeking state funding.
The Whitsunday region’s population now exceeds 41,000 - not counting backpackers and seasonal workers and it continues to grow. The Kimptons believe this growth strengthens the case for a regular mobile service.
While Australian Red Cross Lifeblood has responded that current supplies are sufficient, the Kimptons disagree and are backed by Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins, Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson, and Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm.
The couple plan to continue their campaign until a Mobile Blood Bank becomes a regular visitor to the Whitsundays, making it easier for locals to donate and save lives.
Val and Michael Kimpton want to see a Mobile Blood Bank come to the Whitsundays. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
The Whitsundays is set to benefit from a boost in social and affordable housing, with the State Government announcing dozens of new homes now underway or under contract across the region. The initiative aims to support local families and individuals struggling to secure housing, ensuring more residents have access to safe, stable and affordable places to call home.
In the region, 30 new social homes are planned for Proserpine, 32 for Bowen, and 11 affordable homes for Moranbah. This is all part of a growing housing pipeline aimed at tackling Queensland’s housing shortage.
Minister for Housing and Public Works Sam O’Connor said the projects form part of the Government’s commitment to delivering 53,500 social and community homes by 2044.
“Projects like this one are vital to meeting the need for social housing for Mackay-Whitsunday locals waiting for a place to call home,” Minister O’Connor said.
“We’re ramping up construction across the State to deliver 2,000 social and community homeseach year on average by the end of this term.
The new approach also empowers community housing providers to apply for funding year-round, supporting a steady supply of new homes in regional Queensland.
In Mackay, 18 new social homes are now under construction, comprising 15 one-bedroom and three two-bedroom units to be completed by late 2026.
Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the 141 new homes across the Mackay-Whitsunday region mark a significant step forward.
“These 18 new social homes will be life-changing and provide stability for some of our most vulnerable locals,” Mr Dalton said.
The Governments new housing hopes to help locals find a place to call home. Stock Image
Last Friday the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN) hosted their biggest Monthly Brekky in front of nearly 70 people.
The monthly breakfast held out the front of Shirtfront Solutions and Enzed Whitsundays has been growing every time and President of WSPN Matt Stokes said these breakfasts are a fantastic way to promote conversations amongst mates.
"It's great to see the numbers increasing and I'd like to see it even bigger than this. So keep inviting your mates!" he said.
"Suicide prevention is everyone's job, so if you know anyone struggling, make sure you bring them along."
Matt also thanked Earthwise Waste Solutions for being the sponsors of the BBQ Brekky, and Food From the Heart Airlie Beach who donated Bacon. Matt said he wants to keep this event free forever and urges sponsors that are interested to come forward.
Whitsunday Zonta and Whitsundays Property Buyers both donated $500 to WSPN.
WSPN are a community funded organisation that spend money where it matters most - finding counselling for people that are the most vulnerable to suicide.
"Our message is simple, it is that suicide prevention is everyone's job, and we are really grateful for everyone here today."
Whitsunday Zonta Vicky Krogh, President of WSPN Matt Stokes, and Whitsunday Property Buyers Lara Kell-Colliver and Drew Colliver
WSPN Di, Rob and Gis
Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
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Few Australian soldiers fought in Europe in World War 2 however the RAAF, including thousands of Australians who were posted to RAF squadrons, made a significant contribution to the bombing of Germany and patrolling of allied shipping in the Atlantic. The air war in the European theatre claimed the lives of 5488 RAAF airmen.
One of those who was fortunate to return home was Flying Officer Cecil Graham Mazlin 018007 (434989) whose flying logbook was recently loaned to the Proserpine Museum. Cec Mazlin served in the Royal Australian Air Force undertaking 50 combat missions in the skies over Europe in World War 2.
Born in Proserpine on July 24, 1924, to parents, Cecil Evelyn Mazlin and Kathleen Doris nee Ledlie, Cec, as he was known, attended Proserpine State School and completed his education at Brisbane Boys’ College and Thornborough College. Upon leaving school, he worked as a clerk for CC Wakefield Oil Company in the Valley in Brisbane.
After about a year with the company, Cec left to join the RAAF enlisting on February 25 1943 as Air Crew V with the rank ACII. His initial training was in Kingaroy after which he went to Wireless and Gunnery School in Maryborough and Bomb and Gunnery School in Evans Head. Cec graduated in November 1943 as a Sergeant Wireless Operator Air Gunner.
In Sydney, in December 1943, Cec boarded the steamer “Willard A Holbrook” bound for San Francisco. After crossing the USA by train and eventually embarking on the “Queen Elizabeth”, the troops arrived in Glasgow then travelled by train to Brighton for conversion courses on Ansons, Wellingtons, Halifaxes and Lancasters. In March 1944, he was reclassified to Wireless Operator (Air).
In October 1944, Flight Sergeant Cec Mazlin was posted to 100 SQN RAF (a subsidiary of 460 SQN – Australian) at Waltham, outside Grimsby. This was a British Squadron into which RAAF crews were seconded to boost numbers. There were three major operational commands in the RAF – Bomber Command; Fighter Command and Transport Command. Cec and his crew flew 35 successful combat missions operating Lancaster bombers over Germany - a significant achievement considering that for RAAF members in RAF Bomber Command, more than one in three were killed. (Source: Australian War Memorial)
Cec and his crew were then posted for instructional duties however the men did not like this, so they volunteered for Pathfinders (PFF) and were posted to the south of England. After a couple of trips, someone discovered that their skipper did not have adequate eyesight for a pilot!
Cec then applied for a transfer back to 100 SQN where he joined a Canadian crew and completed 15 more combat missions before war’s end. Just prior to the end of the war, he was promoted to Warrant Officer. Cec and his crew then flew to Europe where they participated in the Berlin airlift operation to help repatriate ex-POWs to the UK. In September 1945, he was commissioned as an Officer with the rank of Pilot Officer while on a posting to Headquarters in Brighton where he spent five months.
Pilot Officer Cecil Graham Mazlin embarked for return to Australia in November 1945 and was demobbed in February 1946. After his return to Australia, he was promoted to Flying Officer. He was awarded the 1939-1945 Star, France and Germany Star, Defence Medal, War Medal 1939-1945, and the Returned from Active Service Badge.
Back in Australia, Cec returned to Wakefields. In 1949, he married Ailsa Johnson, and they moved to Proserpine where he worked as a clerk for Briggs and Mazlin before buying into part of the firm then branching out on his own. Cec and Ailsa had three children – Joanne, Graham and Warren.
Cecil Graham Mazlin passed away on November 8, 1991. He is buried in the Proserpine Cemetery.
LEST WE FORGET
Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum and Cec Mazlin’s son, Warren Mazlin. Information also sourced from “The Proserpine News 1939 – 1945 WWII” by Lyn Burke and Lloyd Fox
Cec Mazlin. Photo supplied.
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