Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Last week the Whitsunday Counselling and Support organisation hosted their annual Candle Lighting Ceremony in Cannonvale to mark the beginning of Domestic and Family Violence Prevention month. Each May, the annual initiative aims to raise awareness of domestic and family violence and coercive control. The theme for 2026’s DFV month is: Together Queenslanders can prevent domestic and family violence. The event saw attendance from Mayor Ry Collins, Cr Jan Clifford and representatives from the Whitsunday Police Station and Whitsunday Counselling and Support. An acknowledgement of country was provided by Vicky Brimble (Koa Banburi) with music performed by Nicke Di Gregorio. Manager of Counselling Services at Whitsunday Counselling and Support Sharon Parker presented a powerful speech as she memorialised those lost, and put forward a call to action. “In our commemoration today, I would ask you to not just think about these deaths as statistics, but to reflect on the people behind the statistics,” Sharon said. “These were real people, with lives that mattered. They mattered.” Clothes were displayed to mark the individuals who tragically lost their lives to domestic violence. A list was provided of individuals across Australia who had lost their lives to domestic and family violence over the past two years, with many of the cases still ongoing. “This is not a comfortable thing to do,” Sharon said. “I know that whilst compiling this list I got emotional thinking about the victims. However, commemoration is important, as without discomfort, we are rarely moved enough emotionally to make change.” Sharon defined domestic and family violence, to improve awareness across the region. “Domestic and family violence is behaviour that occurs between people who are, or have been, in a domestic or family relationship. It is not just physical violence. It can include abuse that is emotional, financial or sexual. Tragically, it can have fatal consequences.” The speech touched on societal factors that contribute to domestic and family violence. “We did not arrive here suddenly. This harm has been shaped over time by gender inequality, rigid power structures and attitudes that have normalised control, silence and excuse making,” Sharon shared. “Misogynistic beliefs and patriarchal standards – when left unchallenged – can normalise control, silence and violence, particularly within homes and relationships. “Such attitudes can affect women’s safety both at home and in public. Many women live with the risk of domestic and family violence and often are making constant decisions with behaviour, routine or clothes – just to feel safe.” Sharon has also addressed the impacts of patriarchy and misogyny on men. “For men it is also harmful. It creates pressure to fit into narrow ideas of masculinity which may discourage men from expressing feelings, showing vulnerability or asking for help. These expectations can negatively affect men’s mental health, relationships and wellbeing. Patriarchy can also limit men’s freedom take on caring roles, seek support or live in ways that don’t fit traditional gender stereotypes.” Sharon then put forward a call to action, advising community members on how they could show their support. “Each of us has a role to play. Speaking up matters. We must all challenge sexist or violent language. Refusing to make excuses matters. Listening, believing and supporting survivors matters. Changes comes when individuals choose to reject attitudes that devalue, dismiss or endanger others. “So today, I challenge you with this call to action. I challenge you to reflect on how you view domestic and family. I challenge you to examine everyday behaviours, attitudes and conversations – and to choose to do better. Real change happens when individuals are willing to challenge what feels familiar and take responsibility for creating safer, more respectful relationships and communities.” Following on from the vigil on Thursday 14th, a roundtable was led by the DFV Prevention Council at Shute Harbour Marine Terminal. The stakeholder roundtable focused on domestic and family violence (DFV) primary prevention, with a strong emphasis on community-led approaches and collaboration across the region. The session brought together a range of local leaders and stakeholders, including representatives from council, police, community services and state agencies, to discuss opportunities for strengthening prevention efforts across communities including Airlie Beach/Cannonvale, Proserpine and Bowen. The focus was to identify local drivers of DFV, map community strengths and resources and explore practical, place-based solutions to help prevent violence before it starts. If you or someone you know is in a dangerous or life-threatening situation, call Triple Zero (000). If you don’t want to speak to the police you can also call DV Connect on 1800 811 811 or 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732 (24 hours, 7 days a week). You can also go to the Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month website for more details and support. https://www.qld.gov.au/community/getting-support-health-social-issue/support-victims-abuse/need-to-know/i-want-to-help-someone/practical-steps-to-help-someone-experiencing-dfv/taking-community-action/domestic-and-family-violence-prevention-month#:~:text=Each%20May%2C%20Queensland%20marks%20Domestic,Violence%20(DFV)%20Prevention%20Month. – can designers make into QR Code please. Domestic and Family Violence is an ongoing issue across the country. Change is required at an individual level to make a difference on a national scale. The Whitsunday Counselling and Support team with Mayor Ry Collins and Councillor Jan Clifford. Constable Christina Smith speaking about domestic and family violence. Photos supplied
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Millions of Australians, including households across the Mackay Shire, are being encouraged to reconnect with loved ones as Australia Post and Beyond Blue mark a major milestone in their national Connection Postcards campaign. This month, four million prepaid postcards are being delivered to letterboxes across the country, with Queensland receiving more than 824,000 cards as part of the initiative aimed at tackling loneliness and social isolation. The campaign also celebrates two significant milestones, the delivery of the 25 millionth Connection Postcard since the initiative began in 2021, and 25 years of Beyond Blue supporting Australians’ mental health. Australia Post General Manager Community and Stakeholder Engagement, Nicky Tracey, said the campaign comes at a time when many Australians are feeling increasingly disconnected from their communities. “More Australians are saying they’re feeling disconnected, and that sense of isolation can have a real impact on wellbeing,” Ms Tracey said. “This year is particularly exciting as we celebrate 25 years of Beyond Blue supporting Australians’ mental health and deliver the 25 millionth Connection Postcard since the campaign began. “Connection Postcards are a simple way to reach out, to let someone know you’re thinking of them, and to remind people they’re not alone.” Recent research from Beyond Blue found only one-third of Australians feel a sense of belonging within their local community, with loneliness and isolation particularly affecting regional and remote areas. The issue is especially significant for farming communities across regional Queensland, where financial pressures, cost-of-living challenges and extreme weather events continue to impact mental health and wellbeing. Beyond Blue CEO Georgie Harman AO said simple acts of connection can play a powerful role in supporting mental health. “Staying connected with others is so important for our mental health, but too many Australians, particularly those in regional and rural communities, are feeling lonely or disconnected,” Ms Harman said. “Simple, everyday interactions that foster connection, like writing a postcard or saying hello to people in our neighbourhood, are some of the most effective ways to support mental wellbeing and strengthen the relationships we rely on for our mental health.” Connection Postcards are available through participating Australia Post outlets and can also be ordered online through Beyond Blue’s Connection campaign page. The campaign encourages Australians to send a handwritten message to a friend, family member or neighbour as a reminder that support and connection matter. CAPTION: Australia Post and Beyond Blue are encouraging Mackay region residents to reconnect with loved ones through the nationwide Connection Postcards campaign, which this year celebrates the delivery of its 25 millionth postcard. Photo supplied
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When it comes to CPAP therapy, there are plenty of myths that can stop people from getting the sleep they need. The reality is that modern CPAP technology is quieter, smaller and more comfortable than ever. Let’s separate fact from fiction. Myth 1: CPAP is for old, overweight men Fact: Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), doesn’t discriminate based on age, gender or body type. While excess weight can often make symptoms worse, a 2025 meta-analysis suggests that roughly 60–70% of people with OSA are not obese at all. Meanwhile, Men are often diagnosed easier and earlier due to classic symptoms like loud snoring or choking during sleep. Women, also suffer from sleep apnea and tend to be overlooked or misdiagnosed as their symptoms differ. Women tend to present with more subtle signs such as insomnia, morning headaches or fatigue especially when approaching menopause. Myth 2: CPAP machines are loud and bulky Fact: Modern CPAP machines are quiet, compact and designed for convenience, with features like auto-adjusting pressure and ramp settings to improve comfort. There are even ultra-portable travel CPAP devices that are small enough to fit in your pocket! Myth 3: CPAP masks are uncomfortable to wear Fact: Whilst the mask is the most important part of your CPAP setup, technology has made them smaller, lighter and more minimalistic to maximise comfort. Some masks even use ultra-soft memory foam cushions that gently conform to your face. Most people adjust to modern CPAP masks within a few weeks of starting therapy. The bottom line? CPAP therapy is supper common and the upsides of a great night sleep make it worth a try. At CPAP Direct, we regularly help fit, active individuals, as well as women of all ages, who never expected sleep apnea to be the cause of their symptoms. Ready to start a trial? Visit www.cpap.com.au or call 1300 133 298 to chat with CPAP Direct’s crew.
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Biofuels Push Could Unlock New Future For Mackay Cane Industry Queensland’s push to kick-start a domestic biofuels industry could unlock significant new opportunities for Mackay’s sugarcane sector, according to CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan. Mr Galligan welcomed the Crisafulli Government’s recent $25 million investment into biodiesel production at Ampol’s Lytton Refinery in Brisbane, describing it as an important first step towards building a stronger and more resilient economy while paving the way for future growth across regional industries. “While this project may not directly involve sugarcane, it’s an important step in establishing the kind of industry that, with the right investment and policy settings, can unlock significant opportunities for cane growers,” Mr Galligan said. Queensland’s sugar industry has long advocated for the expansion of a domestic biofuels sector, with the potential to significantly increase ethanol production, generate more green electricity through sugar mills and eventually produce advanced biofuels such as sustainable aviation fuel. With the Mackay Shire recognised as one of Australia’s largest sugar-producing regions, Mr Galligan said local growers could play a major role in helping power Queensland’s renewable fuel future. “This is about more than cleaner energy – it’s about building a stronger, more resilient economy, creating new markets for growers, adding value to every tonne of cane, and backing regional jobs and investment,” he said. “It’s also about fuel security. Recent global disruptions have shown how exposed Australia is to supply shocks, and building a domestic biofuels industry helps reduce that reliance.” Mr Galligan said ensuring sugarcane remained central to future biofuel production would be critical to delivering the industry at scale and strengthening long-term opportunities for regional Queensland communities. The announcement comes amid growing national discussions around fuel security, regional manufacturing and reducing Australia’s reliance on imported fuel supplies. In recent weeks, the Queensland Government announced plans to strengthen the State’s fuel security through expanded local drilling, refining and storage capacity, including unlocking additional infrastructure opportunities at ports across Queensland. Official expressions of interest have also opened under the new Accelerating Fuel Infrastructure Program, inviting industry proposals for fuel refining and storage projects on government-owned land and ports in Townsville, Mackay, Gladstone, Abbot Point, Bundaberg and Brisbane. Minister for Natural Resources and Mines and Minister for Manufacturing Dale Last said the focus was now on future-proofing the industry and creating long-term opportunities. "We know what the challenges are and I’m looking at the opportunities going forward, because that's where we can make the greatest change and get the most benefit," Mr Last said. Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox said recent fuel shortages had exposed critical gaps in Australia’s fuel storage capacity, particularly for regional and agricultural communities. “This crisis has exposed Australia’s vulnerability to global supply shocks of critical liquid fuels, including in Dawson,” Mr Willcox said. “We must protect our economic foundations by scrapping the Safeguard Mechanism costs on refineries and lifting the minimum stockholding obligation. This is the only way to ensure that during global disruptions, our tractors keep moving and our supermarket shelves stay stocked.” CANEGROWERS said it would continue working with government and industry partners to ensure momentum in the biofuels sector translates into practical outcomes for growers and regional communities across Queensland. CAPTION: CANEGROWERS says Queensland’s growing biofuels industry could create major new opportunities for Mackay cane growers. Photo source: CANEGROWERS
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Harper Bee, the much-loved gift and lifestyle store for tweens and teens, is buzzing with excitement as it prepares to move to a new, iconic home in Mackay’s CBD. Soon, the boutique will trade from the heritage-listed Queensland National Bank building on Victoria Street—an upgrade that reflects just how far this family-run business has come.
The move comes as their sister business, Cheeky Little Monkeys Play Centre, prepares for a major expansion of its children’s soft play space. Rather than staying put, Harper Bee saw an opportunity to grow, setting up shop in one of Mackay’s most prominent locations. And watch this space — plans are already brewing to add barista-made coffee to the Harper Bee experience.
But what really makes Harper Bee special is the family behind it. Owned by Lisa Versaci, the store is run by her three daughters—Isabella, Alexis, and Stella—as well as her son’s fiancée, Brooke. These young women aren’t just helping out; they are the driving force behind Harper Bee, handling stock selection, social media, and daily operations with entrepreneurial flair. Their keen eye for trends ensures every item on the shelves is exactly what tweens and teens want.
Harper Bee offers a delightful array of products that cater to the unique tastes of their young clientele. Their exclusive branded items include stylish backpacks perfect for school or weekend adventures, cozy cushions that add flair to any bedroom, chic duffel bags for dance classes or sleepovers, and trendy pencil cases that double as cosmetic bags. Every product reflects the creativity and passion the family pours into the brand, ensuring that what’s on the shelves is as fun, fashionable, and unique as the shoppers themselves.
With their tagline Bee Bold, Bee Creative, Bee You, Harper Bee is more than just a store—it’s a family-run haven for young shoppers. Mark your calendars for their grand opening in mid-March, and get ready to explore their brand-new hive!
Lisa Versaci with her three daughters—Isabella, Alexis, and Stella. Photo credit: Photos by Nell
Some of the products available at Harper Bee, in-store and online
Harper Bee is moving into the iconic original Queensland National Bank Building in Mackay’s CBD on the corner of Victoria and Wood Streets. Photos supplied
Pioneer Catchment Landcare has been recognised on the national stage, winning the prestigious Group Community Champion Award at the Clean Up Australia Day Awards in Canberra. This year marks the 35th anniversary of Clean Up Australia Day, making the honour even more special.
The award celebrates outstanding commitment to environmental stewardship, recognising community groups and organisations that champion sustainability. Criteria for the award include the longevity of service, the number of Clean Up events organised and participated in, and the ability to generate enthusiasm and a ‘wow’ factor for Clean Up Australia Day.
Pioneer Catchment Landcare Coordinator Nancy Pratt said the organisation has been a leader in on-ground environmental work in Mackay for many years, hosting four annual clean-ups at Harbour Beach and Pioneer River, as well as the large-scale Clean Up Australia Day event.
“This award is a testament to the dedication of our volunteers, staff, and community members who show up year after year to make a real difference,” Nancy Pratt said.
“It’s an honour to be recognised for the work we do and to celebrate this milestone with Clean Up Australia.”
Clean-up activities are driven by engagement officer Taleah Virgona, who travelled to Canberra to receive the award on Thursday February 6.
“Over the years, the group has removed hundreds of kilos of waste from our local environment, preventing pollution from harming wildlife and waterways,” Taleah said.
"It can be challenging work at times: we occasionally have to grapple with some really unpleasant items, but you do it anyway, because it matters for our ecosystem.”
One story that hooked judges was Taleah's valiant efforts with a dumped beanbag on Harbour Beach, that turned out not to be full of beans, but a colony of cockroaches.
“I screamed and ran for the ocean, pulled myself together. Then got back to work!” she laughed.
Beyond their clean-up efforts, Pioneer Catchment Landcare actively engages the community through education, conservation and restoration projects, and partnerships that improve our local biodiversity creating healthy landscapes and waterways. The award acknowledges not only the group’s past achievements but also its ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability.
“Pioneer Catchment Landcare extends its gratitude to Clean Up Australia, local volunteers, and the broader community for their support in making each event a success. The group looks forward to continuing its mission of protecting and restoring the natural environment for future generations,” said Taleah.
“Our Clean Up Australia Day event is just around the corner, happening at Harbour Beach on Sunday, 2 March, 2025, from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM. We’ll meet at the Mackay Surf Lifesaving Supporters Club.”
_Our cleanups are part of ReefClean and our Landcare Support Program, funded by Mackay Regional Council. ReefClean is funded by the Australian Government’s Reef Trust and is delivered by Tangaroa Blue Foundation in partnership with Pioneer Catchment Landcare along with Mackay Regional Council through the Landcare Support Program._
Taleah Virgona speaking at the award cerimony at Parliament House on Thursday 6th February
Volunteers alongside Landcare at Plytupus Beach, Mirani as part of a Clean Up Event – Cleaning our Freshwater Beaches. Photos supplied
Mater Mothers’ Hospital in South Brisbane urgently needs donations of ‘cuddle hearts’ to give its tiniest patients the best start to life.
The Neonatal Critical Care Unit is looking to restock the cupboards with the fabric hearts, which are two heart-shaped pieces of material (soft cotton or flannelette) sewn together.
Mater Neonatal Critical Care Unit Education Coordinator Julia Maguire is calling on crafty volunteers to turn on their sewing machines and lend a hand.
“One fabric heart is given to the mother and placed on her chest to pick up her scent, with the other heart placed close to the baby for the same reason,” Ms Maguire said.
“The hearts are then swapped so mother and baby are left with each other’s scented heart.
“The little cuddle hearts help a mother’s milk come in when she is apart from her baby, while the scent of the mother also has a calming effect on the baby.”
Sewers in Mackay can donate specially stitched cuddle hearts to help mums with sick and premature babies in Brisbane.
Ms Maguire said while donations are always welcome, for safety reasons it is important to stick to strict sewing instructions (available on the Mater Mothers’ website) when making the cuddle hearts.
Mater Director of Neonatology Dr Pita Birch said: “Smell is such an important sense and one that has been shown to be critical in developing and strengthening the bond between baby and parents."
Every year almost 1700 sick and premature babies are cared for in the Mater Mothers’ Neonatal Critical Care Unit.
Mater Mothers' Hospital Lactation Consultant Kerryn Dadge with mum Melissa McCallum. Photo credit: Annette Dew
Reef Catchments and Drought Hub recently hosted a highly successful workshop in Sarina, designed to help local farmers tackle the challenges of transitioning their agricultural businesses to the next generation. Led by renowned succession expert Scott Patterson, the Succession Planning workshop offered practical strategies tailored to the realities of farming life.
Scott used real-world case scenarios to deliver practical insights that deeply resonated with attendees. Farmers gained a clearer understanding of succession planning, the differences between business management and ownership, and the importance of structured processes.
Discussions covered key barriers to successful succession, trading versus holding assets, and strategies for ensuring a smooth transition. The relaxed atmosphere encouraged open conversations, with the key takeaway being to _‘start planning and communicating now.’_
In response to the positive reception, Reef Catchments and Drought Hub are excited to announce two additional workshops in Proserpine and Sarina in March 2025. These sessions will again focus on equipping farmers with the tools they need to navigate succession planning in a practical and supportive environment.
Reef Catchments Sustainable Agriculture Facilitator Kellie Harmsworth notes, “Planning for the future is key to keeping family farms thriving for generations.
“These workshops help farmers take proactive steps to secure their legacy—giving them the tools and confidence to start important conversations now, so they can avoid challenges down the track and keep their properties productive and successful for years to come."
An online condensed version of the 2024 workshop is available on Reef Catchments’ YouTube page for those who want a preview of the topics covered.
_For more information, please contact Reef Catchments Project Officer Rachel Taylor: rachel.taylor@reefcatchments.com or 0419 778 402._
Since its founding in December last year, Purrrfect Treasures has been dedicated to rescuing and rehoming surrendered, dumped, or abandoned cats and kittens in need of a loving family. In just a short time, the not-for-profit organisation has already made a significant impact, recently celebrating the adoption of 10 cats in a single adoption day.
Purrrfect Treasures hosts ‘Cat Haven’ adoption days every Saturday from 10am to 2pm at Petstock, providing potential adopters with the perfect opportunity to meet their future feline companions.
With cat dumpings on the rise over the past five years, rescues like Purrrfect Treasures play a crucial role in giving these animals a second chance. Through the dedication of carers and supporters, many cats and kittens find the safe, loving homes they deserve.
Karina Baulch, Secretary for Purrrfect Treasures, encourages potential adopters to look beyond a kitten’s appearance and focus on forming a meaningful connection.
"We encourage everyone to not just pick for looks, but for the connection that they have with the kitten."
To ensure each cat is ready for their forever home, they receive their first vaccination, are desexed, and microchipped before adoption. The adoption fee is $280, plus a microchip transfer fee, and while council registration is recommended, it is not required.
The organisation’s success relies heavily on community support, with donations and foster carers playing a vital role in saving more lives.
"The more donations and carers we have under our rescue, the more cats we can save."
Those eager to support Purrrfect Treasures can email ptcathaven@gmail.com, donate via the QR code, or contribute in-store at Petstock Mackay.
If you're ready to adopt or want to help, visit Purrrfect Treasures on Saturdays at Petstock and follow them on Facebook: PTCatHavenInc to stay updated on upcoming events.
Purrrfect Treasures hosts ‘Cat Haven’ adoption days, providing potential adopters with the opportunity to meet and connect with rescued cats and kittens in need of a loving home. Follow their Facebook page to stay up to date with upcoming events.
Captured in stunning detail by Belinda Eckford, this breathtaking image showcases a powerful wedge-tailed eagle in flight, clutching its latest meal. Taken approximately four hours west of Mackay, near Clermont, the photo highlights the raw beauty of nature in the Australian outback.
Belinda described the experience as surreal, watching the mighty bird soar effortlessly. As Australia’s largest raptor, the wedge-tailed eagle is an awe-inspiring sight, a true symbol of the rugged wilderness.
Thank you, Belinda, for sharing this incredible moment!
Mackay Regional Council began refurbishment work on Brewers Skate Park in Sarina earlier this week.
The project includes refurbishing four of the existing ramps to ensure the skate park remains a popular and safe recreational space for the community.
To minimise disruption, temporary fencing will be placed around two ramps at a time, allowing half the skate park to remain open while work is being carried out.
A new half pipe will also be installed to replace the one that was vandalised last year.
Work will take place on weekdays, during school hours, to minimise disruption to the community.
The project is expected to be completed by late February, weather permitting.
Council appreciates the community’s patience as it works to improve this popular facility.
Long pants and sturdy shoes might help avoid a trip to the ED as yard clean ups begin across the region after recent wet weather.
Residents are being urged to be vigilant with an increase in snake bite presentations recorded across the Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) with snakes on the move due to high temperatures and floodwaters.
There have been 27 snake bite presentations at Mackay Base Hospital since December last year. There were 11 patients treated at the hospital in December 2024 and 13 in January 2025, an increase from 16 patients in total for the same two-month period in the previous year.
A man is in a stable condition at Mackay Base Hospital after a snake bite at Blacks Beach earlier this week. Last weekend there were two patients taken to Proserpine Hospital after snake bites, both of which required transfer to Mackay Base Hospital for antivenom treatment. One of these patients, a woman in her 40s, was bitten at home and later transferred from Proserpine Hospital by rescue helicopter on Sunday. She remains in a serious condition in the Mackay Base Hospital.
Mackay Base Hospital Emergency Department Senior Medical Officer Dr Nirindu Weerakoon said all snake bites should be treated as a medical emergency, regardless of whether you think the snake is venomous or not.
People who are bitten can often feel very well with little to no symptoms, Dr Weerakoon said.
“Some potential symptoms that you might get are headaches, bleeding from the bite site, double vision, sometimes difficulty with breathing or stroke-like symptoms,” he said.
“The worst-case scenario is cardiac arrest. Knowing snake bite first aid is critical and can save a life.”
Dr Weerakoon said the most important thing to do in the event of a snake bite was to apply a pressure immobilisation bandage as soon as possible.
“Always call 000 or get someone else to go for help. As long as you are not in danger of being bitten again, remain where you are,” he said.
“Venom travels through your lymphatic system so the more you move the faster it is pumped around your body.”
Valentine’s Day is more than just roses…though you’ll find plenty of those too at Blossoms Flower Boutique. Now under the new ownership of Frances Deguara, this boutique is THE one-stop-shop for thoughtful gifts, fresh flowers, and locally made treats.
From elegant lilies and sunflowers to handcrafted fudge and gourmet Poppy’s chocolates, there’s something for every taste. Blossoms Flower Boutique also features the ever-popular Ecoya candles, adorable teddies, and custom hampers filled with authentic local and Australian-made treasures.
This Valentine’s Day, elevate your gift-giving with a selection of romantic bouquets and gifts that truly express your love. While you’re picking out that perfect gift, why not treat yourself to a freshly brewed Merlo coffee and enjoy the warm, welcoming atmosphere in-store?
Whether you’re looking for the ideal bouquet, a unique gift, or a sweet treat to make the day special, Blossoms Flower Boutique offers a welcoming space filled with handpicked options designed with love.
_Visit the boutique or check out their brand-new website at www.blossomsflowerboutique.com.au today and discover something meaningful…just for you or your special someone!_
Love is in the air, and what better way to celebrate Valentine’s Day than with an unforgettable dining experience at Tropical Phoenix Garden Restaurant? Nestled on River Street in Mackay, this charming spot offers the perfect blend of exquisite Asian cuisine, warm hospitality, and a relaxed atmosphere beside the Bluewater Lagoon.
For those looking to impress their special someone, the restaurant’s special Valentine’s Day set menu delivers exceptional value, featuring a selection of beautifully crafted dishes designed to delight the senses. Whether indulging in a leisurely lunch or a candlelit dinner, couples can savour fresh, flavour-packed meals while enjoying the tranquil ambiance.
If a night under the stars sounds more appealing, why not take the romance on the road? The full menu is available for takeaway, making it easy to plan a picnic by the river or a beachside feast with your loved one. And for those who prefer a cozy night in, their home delivery service ensures a stress-free evening of great food, good company, and perhaps a little Netflix and chill.
With a menu bursting with authentic flavours, expertly prepared dishes, and a setting that feels just right for love, Tropical Phoenix Garden is the ideal destination for Valentine’s Day—whether you’re dining in, heading out, or staying home. Book ahead to secure your spot or place an order for the ultimate romantic feast.
A huge thank you to the rescue services and local emergency stars who stepped up to support flood-affected areas. Your generosity and hard work did not go unnoticed! Amanda Camm MP, gave a special shoutout to Britt and the Mackay team from Ergon Energy Network, after the crew gifted her a pair of gumboots during her visit to Ingham.
Photo sources: State Emergency Service - Central Region and Amanda Camm MP (Facebook)
How good is it to finally see the sun?! After what felt like a never-ending stretch of rain and gloomy skies, I was beginning to forget what natural light looked like. Just when I thought my washing might never dry again, the sunshine decided to make a grand return—right as I boarded a plane to New Zealand, of course. Timing, right?
This trip isn’t for a holiday, though. Two of my beloved family members have been diagnosed with aggressive cancers, and both have been told their conditions are inoperable. Their treatment—radiation and chemotherapy—is purely palliative, focused on quality of life rather than a cure. It’s heartbreaking, and to be honest, it’s a lot to process.
In the meantime, our brilliant journalist Hannah will be taking the reins on this editor’s note. She recently marked her first anniversary with us, and I’m so proud to share that she’s been nominated for the JSP Women’s Awards in the Rising Star category.
Next week, we’re celebrating all the phenomenal women nominated for this year’s JSP Women’s Awards. What started as a simple blog by Fallon Drewett has grown into a powerhouse of female empowerment, storytelling, and connection. It’s a space where women lift each other up, swap stories, and remind the world that we are strong, capable, and—most importantly—never alone in the challenges we face. If you need a dose of inspiration (or just a reminder that you are an absolute queen), this special feature is one not to miss.
Speaking of inspiration—flipping to pages 26-27 and seeing all those sweet, squishy newborns gave me a moment of nostalgia. That is, until I remembered my ‘baby’ is now a fearless, furniture-climbing, boundary-pushing little tornado who is just over a month away from turning two. How did that happen?! One minute, you're rocking them to sleep, and the next, you're negotiating with a tiny human about why Marmite doesn't belong on the cat.
Enjoy this week’s edition, and I’ll be back with you in a couple of weeks!
Amanda
Mackay Regional Council will consult with the community to determine the ideal location for an off-leash dog park in Slade Point.
Four potential locations for the new off-leash dog park have been identified including a stretch of beach accessible from Swallow Street Park, Lamberts Beach Lookout Park, Cumberland Park and Wren Street Oval Park and the adjoining Swift Street Reserve.
Mayor Greg Williamson said he supported the development of an off-leash dog park in Slade Point as it was aligned with council’s vision of providing accessible spaces where residents and visitors can live, visit and play.
“Council moved a motion to develop a community consultation plan for this facility at an ordinary meeting of council on October 30, 2024,” Mayor Williamson said.
“This was in response to a petition that was signed by 68 residents,” he said.
“The project will provide a dedicated space where dog owners in Slade Point can exercise their pets off-leash within a safe and controlled environment.
“Currently, the nearest off-leash dog parks are located in North and East Mackay, meaning residents have to drive across multiple suburbs to access these facilities.
“We are looking forward to meeting with the local community to gather feedback on the best location for the proposed off-leash area through a formal community engagement process.”
_Council will hold a community consultation session at Slade Point Community Hall, 4 Wren Street, Slade Point on Tuesday, February 18, from 4pm to 6pm to discuss the options with residents._
If you can’t make it to the consultation session, you can learn more and share your feedback at connectingmackay.com.au/slade-point-off-leash-dog-park.
The online survey will be open from 9am on Wednesday, February 19, until 11.59pm on Wednesday, March 5.
By Ruth Puddefoot
The Great Barrier Reef offers breathtaking views both above and beneath the water's surface, but it also harbours delicate ecosystems increasingly threatened by various growing pressures.
These combined stresses undermine the reef's resilience, impairing its ability to recover from significant disturbances, such as frequent coral bleaching events predicted to occur more often in the future.
The Great Barrier Reef, along with its surrounding island national parks, is home to numerous well-established fringing reefs, which are especially vulnerable to anchor damage. A single drop of an anchor can cause immediate harm, and while recovery may take years, the coral may never fully return to its previous state.
The government’s Reef Trails project is a vital initiative for safeguarding the reef, serving two essential purposes. First, it designates areas where boats should refrain from anchoring, helping to prevent damage to fragile ecosystems. This is achieved through the use of white pyramid-shaped buoys with blue labels, which clearly mark no-anchoring zones.
Second, the project offers an effective alternative by installing moorings, enabling visitors to experience the reef responsibly and sustainably.
Environment and Tourism Minister Andrew Powell explained how the project has been a huge success so far:
“We're getting to a point of capacity in terms of what we can put out in the Whitsundays,”
“But there's certainly more work we can look at across the Great Barrier Reef to the north and south.”
Marine Park Ranger Max Van Der Leden stated the moorings will be upkept by contractors, with the help of ranger dive inspections, to clean and replace as quickly as possible when needed.
Owner of bareboat charter company Whitsunday Escape and President of the Whitsunday Bareboat Operators Association, Trevor Rees, stated that using these moorings allows boaties to safeguard fragile coral formations and seagrass beds that could otherwise be impacted by anchoring.
“We thank the Queensland Government for expanding public moorings, as they minimise accidental harm and encourage responsible boating habits, particularly in disbursing vessels and discouraging crowding at other anchoring points.
“The moorings will play a vital role in maintaining the Reef’s natural beauty and ecological health, ensuring it remains a treasure for future generations.”
Online maps showing the locations of public moorings on the Great Barrier Reef are available: Public moorings and no anchoring areas | Environment, land and water | Queensland Government (www.qld.gov.au)
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Hi Everyone,
I wanted to start by saying how truly touched I was by all the kind messages I received about last week's Ruth 2 Reef feature, and I am thrilled by how many of you are eager to share your own environmental stories with the paper!
This week in the feature (pg18 & 19), we have had some wonderful contributions from local environmental organisations and initiatives, each doing fantastic work to protect the beautiful Whitsundays, and amid the recent weather, it is always nice to have some uplifting community stories to share.
The environment has always been important to me, having grown up in the small village of Tewin in the UK, with a family who consistently instilled the importance of looking after nature from a young age during our hiking and camping holidays.
Though I'm no longer the 12-year-old girl who would quietly pick up litter after her friends had left, as I've grown older, the values taught by my family have stayed with me. The principle of never leaving an environment worse than you found it is still something I strongly believe to this day.
It had always been a dream of mine to visit the Great Barrier Reef, and having the opportunity to live on its doorstep, explore the marine life, and learn about the incredible environmental projects underway is an experience that will stay with me for a lifetime.
I think 12-year-old Ruth would be very proud.
Ruth
“The more connected you are to your future self, the better you live in the present.” - Benjamin P. Hardy.
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