1: Prior to becoming the Member for Burdekin, I spent more than 25 years as a Police Officer in regional Queensland as well as serving as a Local Government Councillor and running my own business. That means I bring wide ranging experience and knowledge to this role.  My track record in advocating on behalf of rural and regional Queensland and the Burdekin Electorate speaks for itself and my ability to deliver results is evidence of my passion for representing our community.

2: The Burdekin Electorate is a powerhouse of the state’s economy thanks to our agriculture, mining and tourism industries as well as the local small businesses. Despite this, across the electorate, we are not seeing a return for our hard work. Ensuring that we see our fair share of the funding pie would mean that our roads were safe, our services received the resources they need and the critical infrastructure that we rely on would be funded accordingly.

3: To properly engage with people across such a large electorate means a lot of time behind the wheel and very little time at home but I am fortunate to have my family's full support.
As the Member for Burdekin I have been, and continue to be, committed to visiting and meeting the needs of all residents and communities in my electorate, especially schools, hospitals, police stations and community organisations.
 
4: No matter where you live in Queensland, everyone is feeling the effects of the cost of living crisis as well as issues like youth crime and an overloaded health system. Along with my LNP colleagues I have pledged real action on those issues from day one because Queenslanders, and the people of the Burdekin electorate in particular, deserve to have their concerns heard and addressed as a priority.
  
5: As I always have in my first 100 days, I plan to hit the ground running. If the LNP secures government, that means rolling the sleeves up and delivering on our commitments to address the issues Queenslanders face. My top priority is, and always has been, delivering for the people of the Burdekin electorate.

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1:

The last four years has been a privilege to serve as the Member for Whitsunday; I’m asking for the community to give me the opportunity to continue to serve them. I have worked hard and believe I have stood up on the issues that matter to our community.
 
2:

Our road projects – we need Hamilton Plains to commence – its ready to go, and congestion on Mackay Bucasia Road - we just need a government who is committed to regional Queensland to ensure our region gets its fair share instead of stalling or reprioritising projects in South East Queensland.

3:

I have tried to be visible and connect with community groups and individuals and schools across the electorate. It doesn’t matter where you live – your concerns and issues have equal priority. I haven’t been able to solve every issue; I’ve tried to be accessible; been available to constituents and prioritised local matters.
 
4:

Our fair share particularly in road and health funding and policy to address the cost of living and youth crime crisis. We have a plan and, as a senior member of the LNP, I believe we can deliver if we are elected to Government.
 
5:

Very busy… I will hit the ground running to deliver for our region with energy and a smile. As the local member and a Shadow Minister in the Opposition I have demonstrated I have the capacity and commitment to work hard. I will continue to do this.

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1: As a health professional, now working as an Emergency Physician, I have seen firsthand how the community’s health and wellbeing thrives when Governments invest in healthcare and health infrastructure. As a local dad of five kids aged between 10-21, cost of living relief is vital to our family. I want to continue on Labor’s commitment to doing what matters to Whitsunday families by providing free Kindy, free TAFE as well as $1000 energy rebate, and 20% off car rego.
 
 
2: My health background allows me to know how important the satellite hospital in Mackay’s Northern Beaches will be to the region. And I know this is all at risk under the LNP. I am committed to new Premier Steven Miles’ plan to train more doctors, nurses and health professionals and to attract and retain them in our beautiful region.
 

3: It is so important to listen to the community and meet them where they are. Our local Whitsunday community is diverse and filled with so many wonderful people, the only way I could ensure their needs were met by their local representative is to do what Labor MPs do best – listen and act.
 

4: Cost of living relief is what local families want now. We have seen the pressure interstate migration has put on our community, so the new Premier Steven Miles’ cost of living measures have really had a positive impact on our community.
 
5: My focus right now is to talk to as many people in my community as possible from now and until election night. I want to talk to the people of Whitsunday about Labor’s plan in doing what matters for Whitsunday. And talk about the risks the LNP pose to our community. This election is a choice between a Miles Labor Government taking Queensland forwards or the Crisafulli LNP who will cut what matters and take us backwards.
 

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1: Previously the people’s Mayor of the Whitsunday Regional Council, I am a mother and a grandmother with a passion for representing my community to ensure the world we are creating for our children is one worth living in. I didn’t go into politics to become a career politician, I did it to give my community a real voice. I have the guts to say what most people are thinking, and I can have a much stronger voice in State Government.

2: I can’t pick one issue, there are so many that are affecting the lives of our community, the cost of living, the Bruce highway, youth crime and no one is listening. There is too much talk and no action and I intend to bring action. I will do what it takes until something is done, even if it takes blocking the roads to parliament to give the politicians a taste of what it’s like when the Bruce Highway is closed.

3: By listening to them. I am sick to death of the bureaucracy and top-down leadership that continually tell our communities what’s good for them and how we should run our businesses and lives. Community consultation is mainly undertaken by stakeholder groups chosen by the government to give the government the answers they want to hear. It’s an honour and a privilege to represent your community and the role of your local Member is to represent you first.

4: They want a politician that actually stands up for them, who has the guts to say what they are thinking. They want government accountability and for more debate and community say in legislation that is being pushed through with little opposition. LNP and Labor will tell you a minor party vote is a wasted vote, it’s not it is actually a vote for the people and from the cross bench we can start holding whoever is in government to account.

5: My 100-day plan is to go into every community large and small and hold a town meeting to listen and workshop the needs of that community. I want to ensure we are setting our priorities together. This will also include touching base with all the major stakeholder groups like schools, police, community groups, emergency services and Councils. I want to start with a fresh slate and at the end of 100 days know my electorate and its real needs personally.

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Questions posed for each candidate to answer:

1: Who are you and what do you think qualifies you for the role?

2: If you could initiate a project or address one issue in the region – what would it be and how you would go about it?

3: There are many diverse communities within your electorate, how would you ensure each was served fairly?

4: What do you think the people most want now and how would you give it to them?

5: Tell us what your first 100 days would look like if you were successful in your election bid?

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Gilmour Space has successfully completed a major wet dress rehearsal at the Bowen Orbital Spaceport in North Queensland, marking a key milestone towards the launch of the country's first Australian-made orbital rocket later this year.
 
During the test, the Eris rocket was safely loaded with propellant and all launch procedures were executed up to T-10 seconds before lift-off.

The full rehearsal confirmed the performance of critical systems and only minor issues were identified.

These issues included two faulty valves and some minor software reconfigurations.

They are expected to be resolved before the first flight.
 
Director of Launch Vehicles and Satellites at Gilmour Space David Doyle said this rehearsal was a success.

“I cannot overstate the significance of what we’ve accomplished, with only minimal issues detected,” he said.

“This was the final major test to validate the readiness of our rocket, ground systems and crew, while allowing us to address any concerns ahead of launch day. 
 
"At this stage, we expect to resolve all identified issues in the coming weeks. Pending approvals and other unforeseen events, Eris should be ready for launch as soon as we get the green light."

Gilmour Space are currently pending launch permit approval and airspace management clearances from the relevant agencies.

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Eris, Australia's first sovereign-made orbital rocket, at the Bowen Orbital Spaceport in QLD
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Gilmour Space Mission Control during Wet Systems Test 
Photos supplied

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This month’s Member Spotlight from Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry showcases our diverse businesses community.

After 22 years in the finance industry, Fiona Erquiaga established Smooth Sailing Finance Consulting in 2020.

As a finance and mortgage broker, she assists clients to achieve their goals by offering strategic, tailored and competitive options for first and new homes, investments, business and equipment purchases, and self-managed super funds.

Having worked with the big banks for many years, Fiona wanted to do something more rewarding, something that allowed her to prioritise and spend time with clients.

With 70% of all home loans in Australia now written through brokers, more and more consumers are taking advantage of better service and the introduction of Best Interests Duty requiring brokers to act in the best interests of their clients.

Like many industries, new technologies and AI is changing finance, giving even more lending options and making it easier to do business.

Fiona also established Smooth Sailing to work for herself. Like most small businesses, she is enjoying the benefits of self-employed flexibility and faced the usual challenge of keeping up with demand while trying to find reliable and efficient support staff.

As an active Chamber member, Fiona enjoys the range of opportunities to network with other like-minded business owners which has been invaluable in expanding her business; as well as receiving resources and information on local and state developments, changing regulations, grants and opportunities that may otherwise be overlooked.

Her top tips for other business owners are:
   • Outsource the tasks that you can. Stick to the tasks you are good at that generate your income. Focus your time on those things and let others do the rest.
   • Keep a close eye on your cashflows and ensure you always have a buffer for large and/or unexpected costs, particularly ATO liabilities.

Fiona Erquiaga from Smooth Sailing Finance. Photo supplied

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It was a positive step forward for our region when Councillors unanimously voted to establish an Economic Development Advisory Group (EDAG) at last week’s monthly Council meeting in Bowen.
 
As a first term Mayor I am committed to building a prosperous future for our region and the new Advisory Group will bring together Council, community leaders, and business representatives to ensure our economic plans are aligned with the needs and opportunities of the Whitsundays.
 
The EDAG will act as a forum for dialogue, knowledge sharing, and the development of innovative strategies to enhance economic development in the region.
 
As Mayor I will chair the group, and we have elected Cr John Finlay as a Councillor representative on the group.
 
To ensure representation from diverse industries and stakeholders within the Whitsunday region industry members will be selected through nomination by our Economic Development Team in consultation with the myself and CEO Warren Bunker.
 
Having key stakeholders on board ensures their voices are heard to ensure it is a collaborative approach that will deliver the best outcomes.
 
EDAG will focus on key areas such as tourism, infrastructure, job creation, and innovation, ensuring the region's economic growth aligns with community values and environmental sustainability.
 
This renewed focus on economic development is part of my broader strategy to bolster the local economy, create employment opportunities, and further establish the Whitsundays as a premier destination for both businesses and tourists.
 
We are one of the fastest growing regions in Queensland and this new initiative will help navigate the region through current economic challenges and set a strong foundation for the future.
 
Given the Whitsundays' strong reliance on tourism, proactive economic strategies ensure the region remains competitive. By attracting investment in tourism-related infrastructure and facilities, the Whitsundays can increase visitor numbers and enhance the overall visitor experience.
 
It is also vital that we diversify the economy beyond tourism to ensure the region withstands economic shocks (like natural disasters or pandemics) by creating a more resilient local economy.
 
Sustainability is also key so it is important that our region’s rapid economic growth can be guided to balance progress with environmental stewardship to encourage sustainable tourism and development practices, protecting the natural beauty and ecosystems that are central to the region’s identity.
 
Proactive development fosters a business-friendly environment, attracting domestic and international investors. It also encourages local innovation, supporting start-ups and creative ventures that can adapt to changing economic conditions.
 
By focusing on proactive economic development, the Whitsunday region can secure a prosperous future, providing economic stability, environmental sustainability, and improved social cohesion for generations to come.

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Tourism Whitsundays has welcomed a fresh face with creative energy to its team. New Marketing Coordinator, Emma Bailes brings a passion for brand building and says she will be acting as both the brand guardian and the creative go-to for the organisation.

In this role, Emma will be focused on creating campaigns that highlight the natural beauty and unforgettable experiences that make the Whitsundays such a unique destination.

Emma is looking forward to collaborating with local businesses and creative teams to help share the unique offerings of the region. The goal is to ensure that the Whitsundays shines on the world stage as a premier travel destination.

“I am excited by the idea of living in such a warm, sunny paradise. The Whitsundays’ scenery and laid-back lifestyle feels like the perfect setting,” Emma shared.

Emma comes from Melbourne and has already discovered the vibrant mornings we have that make the Whitsundays so special.

“When the sun rises, the community really comes alive! Making the most of the lagoon at sunrise is a great way to start the day,” she said.

In her new role, Emma will focus on boosting tourism and strengthening the region’s brand presence, ensuring that the Whitsundays’ charm and beauty continues to be shared with domestic and international visitors.

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Tourism Whitsundays Marketing Coordinator, Emma Bailes, Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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The Proserpine Whitsunday Uniting Church invites the community to join in celebrating its Grand Opening, set to take place from October 10-13, 2024. The four-day event will feature a series of special services and community activities.

The Grand Opening festivities will kick off on Thursday, October 10, with a Civic Celebration Service at 7:00pm. This service will include the participation of dignitaries, builders, consultants, and architects who played a significant role in the construction of the church. The Proserpine Citizen’s Band will provide music for the event, starting at 6:30pm.

On Friday, October 11, a Dedication Service will be held at 6:30 PM, led by notable church figures such as Rev. Dr. Adam McIntosh and Rev. Scott Ballment. This service will focus on the dedication of the church to its spiritual mission within the community.

Saturday, October 12, will see the church host a Family Open Day from 10am to 2pm under the theme "Family, Food & Fun with Jesus." The event, which promises to be a family-friendly celebration, will feature a sausage sizzle and activities that highlight the church's message, "See what God has done."

The Grand Opening celebrations will conclude on Sunday, October 13, with a Worship Service at 9:30am, marking the end of the celebratory weekend.

Please RSVPs by October 4, 2024, via email at admin@proserpineuniting.org.au​

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Bowen Tourism and Business (BTB) is calling for nominations for the committee.

The committee of Bowen Tourism and Business sets the strategic direction of the organisation with the operational matters being carried out by a small team of staff.

The organisation currently has 18 active volunteers.

The current chair of BTB is Jenn Honnery, who is encouraging members to join the committee to help set the future strategic direction of the organisation.

“A strong committee always has a diverse range of skills and it would be good to see different business sectors being represented including tourism operators, retail outlets and hospitality,” she said.

“We have more than 200 members and many of those have past experience in a good cross-section of industries,” she said.

The not-for-profit organisation operates the Bowen Visitor Information Centre next to the Big Mango and the information booth at Bowen’s Front Beach.

The Local Tourism Organisation has a mission to drive tourism, promote destination awareness, provide excellence in visitor experience and membership support through effective marketing and exceptional customer service.

The organisation receives some funding from Whitsunday Regional Council and sells local merchandise and local produce at the Visitor Information Centre, as well as providing advertising opportunities for members.

Any profit is spent on destination marketing.

If anyone is interested in becoming a committee member, they must be a current financial member of Bowen Tourism and Business.

Nominations close on Thursday, October 17 with the Annual general Meeting scheduled for Thursday, November 7.

Nomination forms are available by phoning the Visitor Information Centre on 4786 4222 or emailing admin@toruismbowen.com.au

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Chair of Bowen Tourism and Business Jenn Honnery, Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business Leanne Abernethy, and Deputy Mayor Michelle Wright, Photo supplied

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At Coral Sea Pavilion, the seafood platter is more than a meal – it’s an experience that celebrates the freshest local bounty from Australia’s pristine waters, all while enjoying extraordinary views of the Coral Sea.

The seafood platter is carefully curated and features a selection of seafood delicacies that highlight the region’s rich marine offerings.

Start with the famous Coffin Bay oysters, known for their briny sweetness, paired perfectly with a tangy shallot vinegar and a squeeze of fresh lemon.

The Whitsunday wild tiger prawns have tender succulent meat, which is accompanied by a classic Marie Rose sauce, enhancing their natural flavour without overpowering it.

Moreton Bay bugs are a true Australian specialty and add a touch of luxury to the plate with their delicate, sweet flavour. The platter is rounded off by a vibrant reef fish ceviche, marinated in citrus to bring out the freshness of the ocean.

Why not complement this seafood feast with Coral Sea Pavilion’s extensive selection of boutique wines which are carefully chosen to enhance each dish.

Whether it’s a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a full-bodied chardonnay, the perfect pairing awaits. And for those seeking a little more indulgence, the cocktail bar offers delicious, hand-crafted drinks that range from classic mojitos to innovative tropical blends, perfect for sipping while taking in the stunning views.

With al fresco dining and breathtaking vistas of the Whitsunday Islands, Coral Sea Pavilion promises a dining experience that’s as memorable as the food itself.

Coral Sea Pavilion Seafood Platter, Photo supplied

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Feeling hungry at lunch and looking for a healthy and locally sourced poke bowl? Lokahi at the Whitsunday Shopping Centre has you covered!

Inspired to explore healthy alternatives beyond traditional salads and vegetables, owner Erina Miyake discovered the vibrant world of poke bowls.

Originally from Hawaii, poke bowls blend Asian and Western flavours, offering a delicious and nutritious alternative. Erina is excited to share this culinary gem with the Whitsunday community, hoping locals will embrace the unique flavours and healthy benefits just as she has.

Erina’s ingredients are all from local suppliers where possible, but if not available locally she sources them from larger cities such as Brisbane.

“Our poke bowls are not pre-made.”

“Customers can customise them according to their preferences and dietary needs, from the base to mix-ins and protein, people can create their own DIY poke bowls,” Erina explained.

Erina highlights that every signature bowl is a “must-try,” crafted with the perfect blend of base, mix-ins, protein, and dressings. She particularly emphasises that the combination of rice, mix-ins, sashimi, and homemade sauce called “classic sauce” is “particularly exceptional.”

To address the issues of vegetable deficiency and lack of nutritional balance within the region, Lokahi focuses on using a variety of vegetables while carefully seasoning them with proteins such as tofu, fish, and meat to ensure they are delicious.

Lokahi has also introduced online ordering to help busy office workers, tradies, and others with limited time access healthy meals, making every effort to provide them as quickly as possible.

Erina claims their best seller is the "Build Your Own Poke Bowl." This is a DIY poke bowl that allows customers to create their own unique combinations, with their top three sellers being Grilled Teriyaki Salmon, Karaage Chicken, and Teriyaki Chicken.

Additionally, an exciting new addition has made its way on to the Lokahi menu. "CUP-BAP" (Cup-Rice), starting at just $9.90 is the perfect option for those looking for a smaller portion or fewer vegetables while still enjoying the same tasty meat at a lower price.

Lokahi is open for brunch, lunch, and dinner from 10am to 3pm and 5pm to 8pm, Monday to Saturday, head on down and poke your head in!

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Erina Miyake owner of Lokahi Poke Bowl

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This week, Jade had the pleasure of visiting Hayley and Paul at Airlie Health Hub. If you're in the Cannonvale area, be sure to pop in to say hi, enjoy a delicious cup of coffee and a raw treat while you browse their fantastic selection of groceries, cleaning, and health supplies. You will not be disappointed!

Currently in the heart of growing season Airlie Health Hub sources fresh produce directly from local Whitsunday growers. Every Monday, Paul heads out to the farm to select the best fruit and veggies while gaining insights straight from the farmers themselves.

Right now, tomatoes, pumpkins, capsicums, watermelons, and corn are all in season.

Unlike your typical grocery store, Airlie Health Hub offers entirely organic produce —no artificial colours, chemicals, or confusing numbers here. Their commitment to quality reflects their passion for supporting small-scale producers and family-run businesses, making a significant impact in our community.

Hayley and Paul have become local favourites, with not just individuals stopping by but also local businesses who are interested in stocking items which are locally sourced and high quality throughout the Whitsunday region. Their friendly smiles and welcoming atmosphere creates a space where everyone feels at home.

There are some exciting improvements on the way for the shop, keep your eye out for the next in-store additions!

Contributed by Jade Yvonne, Business Development Executive, Tourism Whitsundays

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Jade Richardson from Tourism Whitsundays with Hayley from Airlie Health Hub.
Paul serving up a delicious coffee. Photos supplied

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Eco Barge has excitedly announced their selection as one of six successful applicants for a grant under the Queensland Circular Economy (Industry-Research) program.
This initiative is supported by the Resources Centre of Excellence and the Department of Environment, Science and Innovation.
The Circular Economy program aims to drive industry-led research and innovation to transition from the traditional take-make-waste model to a sustainable circular economy.
This approach focuses on designing out waste and pollution, circulating products and materials at their highest value, and regenerating natural systems.
Eco Barge is dedicated to transforming marine debris collected by their passionate volunteers into valuable and saleable products.
This grant will enable them to enhance their efforts in keeping the Whitsunday seas clean while providing opportunities for skill development and program growth that align with the principles of the circular economy.
Eco Barge’s key project objectives are to Eliminate Waste and Pollution, circulate materials at their highest value, utilise advanced recycling technologies and create a closed-loop system where resources are continuously reused and repurposed.
Through these initiatives, Eco Barge is committed to contributing to the regeneration of natural systems and promoting sustainable practices. By actively participating in the circular economy, they strive to create a more resilient and sustainable future for the Greater Whitsunday Region.
For more information about their initiatives and how you can get involved, please visit ecobargecleanseas.org.au or contact info@ecobargecleanseas.org.au.
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Eco Barge volunteers counting and sorting rubbish

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