A much-loved annual community event which spreads the word of kindness and remembers the life of an inspiring young girl, is taking place across Australia once again this June 22.

Billie Kinder was a Whitsunday local who, at just 12 years old, sadly lost her life in an accident while horse riding.

Her mother, Danny Mason-Kinder found her daughter’s paintings and poems that illustrated incredible insights into kindness and empathy, and she has since used these to create a book using her daughter’s work.

Seeing how this book inspired others, Danny created the b kinder Foundation and the broader b kinder day, to help spread kindness and combat bullying in the community and within schools.

It is now part of Billie’s legacy to help thousands of children discover the power of kindness through various programs.

Every school in the Whitsundays celebrated b kinder day last year and Proserpine Kindergarten, Proserpine High School and now Proserpine Primary School have all become b kinder schools.

“Proserpine has become Proser-kind!” said local b kinder day organiser, Mel Turner.

“All Proserpine State schools now not only celebrate b kinder day but have also taken the step to being b kinder schools with a year round student lead program!”

Last year 146 schools and over 200 businesses were involved in b kinder day.

The main activity on the day is for everyone to write a kind message in one of the b kinder day cards and give it to someone they care about. 

b kinder day cards are $1.00 each and orders over 40 cards include b kinder day posters and biodegradable b kinder day balloons. 

To date, over 120,000 b kinder day cards full of kind messages have been sent around the world.

In addition, b kinder programs, designed by teachers, have been introduced into the syllabus at many schools – each of them actively teaching students about how to be kind every day of the year.

“We would love schools, businesses and the community to get involved and help spread kindness,” expressed Ms Turner.

“The ultimate goal is to weave a tapestry of positivity, kindness and compassion that blankets schools and communities throughout Australia.

“b kinder day addresses what it means to be kind and amplifies the power of kindness, connection and thoughtfulness.  

“Reaching out and connecting with others can literally have a life changing impact on those around us.”

This year, Proserpine State High School has been named the first secondary school in Australia to become a b kinder school.

Six student ambassadors have been announced and they will lead initiatives to help their peers continue to spread kindness within the school community and broader Whitsunday community alike.

Year 11 and 12 students Mia Vloedmans, Abbie Green, Savannah Lamont, Hurley Diessel, Nathan Richards and Holly Perrin have the honour of being the school’s first b kinder ambassadors.

Principal Don McDermid said it was a great privilege to work with the b kinder Foundation on a journey to ignite empathy, compassion, resilience, and confidence in students from Years 7-12.

“It’s an opportunity to spread some kindness and reflect on the power of positive actions towards someone else,” he said.

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Proserpine State High School’s six b kinder student ambassadors. Photos supplied
Proserpine State School celebrate b kinder last year
Subway in Bowen also celebrates b kinder day

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The Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors have been greeting cruise ship visitors as they arrive in Airlie Beach for the past 20 years, and last week marked a special milestone.

According to records, they have just welcomed their one-millionth visitor into Airlie Beach, a moment that was 20 years in the making and an amazing achievement.

Lyn Blanche, Coordinator of Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors said it’s a great feeling to have welcomed the one-millionth visitor and that its terrific for businesses in the area.

“We try to get the cruise ship passengers to engage with the local businesses and spend a bit of money in our area, that's what we want,” said Lyn.

As Coordinator, Lyn organises the group of volunteers that will greet the ship, and they work in a rotational roster.

All cruise ship ambassadors are volunteers, and welcome holiday makers into Airlie Beach.

“We welcome them to the area, we've got some little maps that we give out, so they know where they're going,” explained Lyn.

“We chat about what they want to do, many of them have got an idea already of what they would like to do, so we can point them in the right direction.

“Others just say, well, we don't know what we want to do, so tell us what we can do and we try and fit something around they what they might like.”

Lyn added that “We get fantastic support from the Whitsunday Regional Council, and from Tourism Whitsundays”.

“We couldn't do this without them!”

Chief Executive Officer of Tourism Whitsundays, Rick Hamilton said this is an extraordinary achievement.

“Welcoming 1 million visitors to Airlie Beach is a truly remarkable milestone for our Cruise Ship Ambassadors,” said Rick.

“These passionate volunteers help to create an unforgettable experience for every single person who steps ashore, leaving a lasting impression of the region.

“Their efforts help to make Airlie Beach such a special destination, and we are incredibly grateful for their service, today and every day."
 

Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors, Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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PCYC Whitsunday’s Get Set for Work Program has become a top 3 finalist in the Queensland Training Awards.

The award is part of the Community Training Initiative of the Year category in a North Queensland regional area.

The awards ceremony takes place in Townsville on Saturday 20 July, 2024.

With testimonies from parents, and students, PCYC Brand Manager Sergeant Billy Li believes they’ve put in a strong application and they have a strong chance of winning.

If they win, the Get Set for Work program will be selected as a state finalist and will attend the state final awards night in Brisbane on Saturday 7 September, 2024.

Winning either award would create an opportunity for PCYC to grow their program.

Billy believes winning the awards will create better awareness for the program, which is currently only known about through word of mouth.

With greater awareness, participant numbers can grow and with high numbers Billy wants to see kids from other areas have access to their program.

The PCYC Get Set for Work program is dedicated to disengaged kids or young adults who need extra support to create better employment pathways.

The PCYC Get Set for Work program coordinator, Scott Lynch said “We help participants build resumes, cover letters, we help them obtain industry entry level certifications, so things like construction white cards and responsible service of alcohol.”

Get Set for Work is one of eight programs that make up the Queensland Government’s Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative.

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PCYC Get Set for Work program coordinator, Scott Lynch and PCYC Brand Manager Sergeant Billy Li, will be heading to the awards in Townsville soon. Photo supplied

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Collinsville has been experiencing subpar telecommunication coverage for several months, with many constituents reporting they’ve been unable to obtain service unless connected to home Wi-Fi.

Federal Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry, is calling on the Minister for Communications, Michelle Rowland, to urgently address the severe telecommunication issues plaguing Collinsville.

“Telecommunication issues with Telstra were brought to my attention in March and I have been working closely with representatives of Telstra to resolve the issue,” Ms Landry said.

“Upon my escalation, Telstra dispatched a service technician to assess the issue and make the necessary repairs. Upon review, the technician was able to identify and I was advised that the problem had been resolved.

“Despite some constituents reporting their service had been restored, many people were still unable to utilise their phones outside of their homes.

“Telstra is now informing customers that they cannot provide further assistance while also attempting to sell their new Starlink package.

“This effort to convince residents, who are already paying a premium for Telstra's substandard service, to spend even more each month has rightfully angered many constituents.

“I have written a letter to the Minister for Communications to advise her of the substandard service the Collinsville community is experiencing and the lack of assistance being provided and have requested immediate support in resolving the matter.”

The 2024 Regional Telecommunications Independent Review Committee is currently conducting a survey to better understand regional, rural and remote Australian’s issues with accessing and using telecommunication services.

The 2024 Regional Telecommunications Review survey can be done by visiting rtirc.gov.au.

Ms Landry strongly urges everyone that is affected by poor telecommunication services to complete the survey.

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Federal Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry, advises everyone with impacted phone coverage to take the independent survey.  Photo supplied

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The future of the $8 million Whitsunday Sportspark Club House known as ‘Club Whitsunday’ is at a crossroads due to conflicting opinions within the eight different committees who operate the five different sports played at the public facility.

For the past eight years the Hospitality Club has been under planning and construction, with various extenuating circumstances responsible for several delays.

During this time the dedicated and hardworking committee, led by Chairman Justin Butler, have been resolute to complete the project and open  Club Whitsunday for all the community to enjoy.

From the beginning, the plans have been to open a large bistro and bar area with TAB and gaming to provide a community owned, integrated offering like the commercial hotels and service the hundreds of people that come through the facility each week.

For the past two years, however, they have been waiting for a liquor licence which finally came through  last month.

This means, the facility has now reached the stage where it can fulfill its original plan and become a fully functioning Club House with commercial kitchen,  extensive dining areas, gaming room and a sports lounge.

To enable this to happen, however, Club Whitsunday will need to borrow additional funds and are currently liaising with a Specialty Hospitality Lender to arrange.

It is set to cost a further $3.5M to fit out the facility, which was always part of the plan.

There are, however, some additional costs that have accumulated over the years.

Since the facility’s completion, $4000 a month has been accrued in ‘holding fees’ which are largely from insurance and electricity, despite the Club not operating and having no money coming in.

This, coupled with the usual building cost overruns means  a further $1.5M will need to be borrowed.

This means they will need a total of $5M.

At this current stage the Sportspark Club House committee have very limited money in the bank and are calling for the Whitsunday Regional Council to help if they can.

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Bowen River Rodeo and Campdraft is taking place right now and running throughout the weekend, the exciting event once again supporting highly regarded charity Buck Off Melanoma which is celebrating its 10th year this year.

The charity’s founder, Janice Brown, has been a passionate advocate for Melanoma Research following her son’s Melanoma diagnosis and, over the last decade, has raised over $150,000.

A self-funded charity, 100 per cent of the proceeds go directly to the QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute to assist in the research for a cure for Melanoma. 

Over the years, life-extending drugs have been made available, and helped people living with Melanoma to live longer.

Janice would like to thank all the different community events over the years that have been benefactors for Buck Off Melanoma.

“Thank you so much for all your help and thank you to every person that has supported us over the years,” expressed Janice.

Back in 2016, the scientists from QMIR Berghofer Medical Research Institute came to Bowen for a special community walk to raise awareness for using sunscreen to prevent Melanoma.

This year, Janice is pleased to report they are back and will be attending Bowen River Rodeo and Campdraft this Sunday to meet people and to answer any questions in regards to Melanoma. 

In fact, Sunday at the Rodeo is all about Buck Off Melanoma with all the riders wearing special branded shirts that raise awareness for the cause.

This is thanks to Scotty Prosser from Liberty Fuel who has kindly contributed to the shirts this year.

There are 60 shirts in total and the whole event will be themed with the special branded shirts for the whole day.

According to ABS data, of the Australians living with cancer in 2017-18, nearly one in three (30.8%) had skin cancer, making this the most common type of cancer.

It is estimated that at the end of 2018, there were 216,408 people in Australia living with melanoma who had been diagnosed between 1982 and 2018.
At least 2 in 3 Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer in their lifetime, and the risk is higher in men than in women.

Prevent Skin Cancer By:

   • Slip on some sun-protective clothing that covers as much skin as possible.
   • Slop on broad spectrum, water resistant SPF30 (or higher) sunscreen. Put it on 20 minutes before you go outdoors and every two hours afterwards. Sunscreen should never be used to extend the time you spend in the sun.
   • Slap on a hat – broad brim or legionnaire style to protect your face, head, neck and ears.
   • Seek shade.
   • Slide on some sunglasses – make sure they meet Australian Standards.

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WHAT: Bowen Rodeo and Campdraft
WHEN: 6-9 June
WHERE: 41 Mt Wyatt Road, Collinsville

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The community is invited to come down to the Reef Gateway Hotel next month for a special event which is set to raise awareness and funds for the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network.

Not only does this event support a meaningful cause, it is also hosted by some well-known sporting heroes and other inspiring role-models who will share their own journeys in mental health and finding fulfillment.

A Night with Legends is your opportunity to hear from ex professional sports men, interact with them, learn from their stories and connect with others.

NRL legend, Shane Webcke, former AFL player Peter ‘Spida’ Everitt, Brant Webb one of the miners trapped at Beaconsfield Gold Mine in Tasmania in 2006, and Rob Payne owner of Mark Twain yacht, all talk about their experiences and their belief in perseverance.

The evening will include raffles, auction items, live music, and food and drink.

All proceeds from the evening go towards funding activities and events for Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network.

The Network provides free counselling for those effected by suicide, it also offers free weekly Breathing Sessions which are open to all community members, and many other incredible services.

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What: Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Fundraiser
When: Saturday 13th July - 5.30pm till 9.30pm
Where: Reef Gateway Hotel
Tickets $125 + booking fee, Tickets available online https://bit.ly/ANightWithLegends

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NRL legend, Shane Webcke
Former AFL player Peter ‘Spida’ Everitt

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The Little Mango at Bowen’s Front Beach has had a facelift.

The six-metre high Little Mango has been repaired and re-painted by Martin of Gwada Murals.

The structure is a smaller replica of Bowen’s 10 metre “Big Mango” on the Bruce Highway south of Bowen.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy thanked Whitsunday Regional Council for ensuring the Little Mango was ripe again in time for the busy winter tourism season.

“The Little Mango is located right near the information booth manned by our volunteers – and they were very pleased to see the structure has been repainted,” said Leanne.
 
In 2014, Bowen’s 10 metre ‘Big Mango’ was removed and news of it being stolen made international headlines.

It was mentioned in more than 3,000 media reports and reached over 25 million people worldwide.

It was then revealed the restaurant chain Nando’s was responsible for the stunt as a promotion.

Bowen Tourism and Business had worked with an advertising agency to organise the removal and hiding of the mango during the night. 

The stunt moved to Melbourne where Nando’s released a 6-metre replica in Federation Square with the launch of their Mango and Lime Product. 

That ‘Little Mango’ is now located at Bowen’s Front Beach.

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Volunteers Margaret Hurst and Marie Bailey with Martin from Gwada Murals at the Little Mango at Bowen’s Front Beach.

Photos supplied

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This year marks the 111th year of the annual Show Whitsunday.

Starting in 1912, the show has always been a cornerstone of local life, a time when the community gather and celebrate the lifestyle we love here in the Whitsundays.

With horse shows, cattle grading, garden produce competition, two-days of wood cutting, a poultry pavilion, a local sugar cane exhibit and many more, the rural life of our region is on display for all to see.

Children can cuddle a chicken or play with a baby goat at the friendly petting zoo, they can be amazed at the strength of the competitors at the wood-chop and watch as the horses race around the equestrian ring.

For the thrill seekers, there are classic show ground rides for those seeking that rush of adrenaline.

Zoom around on the bumper cars, spin your heart out on the zipper, or scream out loud of the ‘Surge’.

Explore the fun house, get an aerial view of the bright lights from the Ferris Wheel and explore the sideshow alley.

Catch a yellow duck, throw a ball at clown, fire a shot at a target and see what prize you could bring home with you.

With so much action, you’ll never want to go home!

Tickets are available now to purchase, buy the two day pass and save!

What: Show Whitsunday
When: Friday 21 June & Saturday 22 June
Where: Proserpine Showgrounds
Tickets: Available via Show Whitsunday Facebook and Website

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The Whitsundays Writers Festival is thrilled to announce the featured local authors of this year’s pen-dropping event which is happening this September.

Festival President, Karen Jacobsen says “We are excited to be showcasing the creative talent and diversity of the region’s writers and there are many ways local authors can get involved.”

Featuring among the esteemed line up of local authors is Rachel Armstrong, North Queensland award winning contemporary romantic fiction author, who loves writing about rural small towns, stirring up the suspense with terrifying villains, and placing paranormal shifters in an everyday world.

Joining Rachel is Bec Russell, a long-term Whitsundays local. Having lived in the area for most of her life she feels blessed to have grown up in a beautiful, small, yet vibrant community. A holistic health coach and yoga teacher, Bec loves exploring her creativity.

Adding to this list of engaging local authors is A.L. Tippett. Having written her first novel when she was twelve, this passionate writer almost abandoned her dreams after deciding that being an author wasn’t a “real” job and not worth pursuing. Thankfully, she rediscovered her passion for storytelling and has published The MINATH Chronicles.

Meanwhile, Jo Nightingale is local author and Airlie Beach local. In 2013 she was travelling through India when she felt compelled to record her journey. Unbelievable events were taking place that needed to be shared and her first book — Finding the Quietness Within — was born. This began her trilogy following her journeys around the world with the second book Finding the Stillness Within.

“We can’t wait for Festival attendees to meet our local authors by discovering their stories through our bookshop and taking time to meet them and learn more about their work and writing journeys,” said Karen.

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A.L. Tippett almost gave up on her dreams of becoming an author but has now published the MINATH Chronicles. Photo supplied

Rachel Armstrong is a North Queensland award winning contemporary romantic fiction author. Photo supplied

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Zonta Clubs from all over North Regional Queensland gathered in the Whitsundays in May for a weekend of friendship, fun and activity.

The weekend started with welcome drinks which were held at the Coral Sea Resort on Friday 17 May.

This was followed by the Area 5 meeting which was conducted in Coral Sea Resort’s function room on Saturday.

The meeting began with an opening by the Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor, Ry Collins.

During the day, District Governor, Lyn Agnew gave several presentations on various topics including, ‘Achieving More in 2024’, ‘Zonta Australia Caucus’, and ‘Zonta Convention Brisbane 2024’.

Other Zonta presentations were given by Sue Wicks from Mount Isa.

Sue formed a group discussion about ‘The Zonta Spirit’.

Jenni Ziesemer, the Zonta Foundation Ambassador, spoke about the various options for donations.

In addition, each Club gave a presentation about the work they had done over the year and plans for the future.

44 members were able to attend on the day, including District 22 Governor Lyn Agnew, one guest and three guest speakers.

Following the meeting, a casual dinner was held at Paradiso Restaurant in Airlie Beach.

The next Zonta meeting will be on June 13 at 5.30pm, if interested call 0418 787 300.

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Photos supplied

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This week, the Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine celebrates 12 years of serving the Whitsundays community.  
The locally owned and operated Branch opened its doors 5 June 2012 and is one of 322 community banks across Australia.
The Bendigo Community Bank model is unique.
“Our success is based on our profit-with-a-purpose model which sees around 50 per cent of the profits generated by our independently owned and operated Community Bank branch invested back into the community” said Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine Chairman Mark Henry.
The establishment of the Branch was backed by local shareholders who saw the value of the Community Bank model and raised $800,000 locally to establish a branch in the Whitsundays.
This journey started in 2009 where a passionate group of locals formed a Steering Committee to undertake work to assess the feasibility of establishing a community bank and help raise necessary local investment. This group worked tirelessly delivering flyers, newsletters, hosting information stalls at local supermarkets and cafes, canvassing businesses and community groups, holding public meetings, and conducting media interviews to gather support.
In 2011 the Whitsundays Community Enterprises Limited (WCEL) formed and appointed owner-operator of the Branch, with Jeff Law appointed the inaugural Chair, Anton Yuskan Secretary, and Krys Halsey Treasurer.
Today, the WCEL Board is Chaired by Mark Henry (since 2019) along with long-standing Treasurer Krys Halsey and Board members Cait Fleming, Ross Hughes, and Kim Porter.
“We thank our shareholders for backing the Whitsundays community and providing an essential banking service, and all the passionate local Directors past and present for their hard work and dedication,” said Mark.
This year the Branch welcomed Amanda Anderson as its new Branch Manager.
“She is a welcome inclusion for our Branch team – joining Chantelle, Danica, Kristy, Kareen, and Natasha – and we look forward to their contribution in 2024 and beyond,” said Mark.
Over the past eight years Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine has invested just over $201,500 into local schools, social programs, sporting groups, arts and culture events, conservation initiatives, and community prizes.

Most weekends Whitsunday locals will also see the Branch’s fully equipped Community Trailer and BBQ out and about at sporting and community events.
Applications for sponsorship and the Community Trailer are now open. Email the Branch’s Board Secretariat on secretary@whitsundaycel.com.au for more information.

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Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine’s Board: Ross Hughes, Mark Henry, Cait Fleming and Krys Halsey. Photo supplied

Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine’s dedicated team: Kirsty, Kareen, Amanda and Danica. Photo supplied

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The Freight Distribution Centre at Whitsunday Coast Airport offers a streamlined one-stop-shop for all types of freight, simplifying the shipping process from start to finish. Notably, pet owners can now transport their pets directly from the Whitsundays, avoiding trips to Mackay or Townsville, thanks to the centre's full-service capabilities. Whether it's perishable goods, general cargo, or precious pets, the Freight Distribution Centre at Whitsunday Coast Airport makes shipping and receiving more accessible and efficient. For more information visit www.whitsundaycoastfreight.com.au

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I have been in Brisbane since Wednesday for multiple meetings with Queensland Government Minsters to advocate for funding and turn a spotlight on priority issues for the Whitsunday region.
 
It is my belief that the relationship between local, state, and federal governments should be a partnership built on mutual support and shared goals rather than always criticising a lack of funding.
 
I have had high-level meetings with multiple Ministers over the past two days and some of the issues discussed include confirmed funding for Hamilton Plains flood proofing and Shute Harbour boat ramp; advocacy for the Skyway project and other major projects; infrastructure funding to support the fast growing Whitsunday Coast Airport; infrastructure planning support for the Bowen Pipeline and Water project; lack of affordable social housing in the Whitsunday region; and increased funding for Yellow Crazy Ants and feral pigs and dogs control.
 
One of the most critical areas where state and federal funding is indispensable is in infrastructure development with regards to water, waste, and sewage.
 
These projects are often costly and beyond the financial capacity of local councils alone so by working together with all tiers of government we can continue to improve the lives of our residents and build a brighter future for all.
 
Addressing environmental challenges requires significant resources so state and federal funding supports local initiatives aimed at reducing carbon emissions, protecting natural habitats, and promoting sustainable practices.
 
For instance, grants for renewable energy projects or conservation programs enable Council to implement green policies that might otherwise be financially unfeasible.
 
Asset management remains a key focus for Council because by looking after our assets, we are looking after our community and ensuring that Council can continue to deliver the services for future generations.
 
However, the ability for Council to deliver these responsibilities effectively depends significantly on the financial support they receive from both the state and federal governments.
 
Investments from state and federal governments also help stimulate our local economy by funding projects that create jobs and attract businesses.
 
An example are regional development grants that can be leveraged to improve local amenities, making our communities more attractive places to live and work.
 
This, in turn, leads to increased investment, tourism, and economic opportunities for our residents.
 
The funding provided by state and federal governments is not just about direct financial assistance; it is about ensuring that diverse regional councils like the Whitsundays have the resources needed to build vibrant, resilient, and sustainable communities.
 
It is my intention to make these visits to Parliament House in Brisbane, and to Canberra, regularly to ensure the Whitsunday region is always front of mind for the Queensland Government with regards to funding and partnership opportunities.

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Tourism Whitsundays headed to Melbourne last week, making a splash at the Australian Tourism Exchange (ATE), which is Tourism Australia’s largest annual trade event.

ATE brings together all Australian tourism businesses with global distribution partners for business appointments and key networking events.

Industry Development and Trade Manager, Cait Fleming, and Marketing Manager, Laura Knipe had a whirlwind week, securing over 100 meetings with international travel partners.

From tour wholesalers and airline representatives to travel agents, they showcased the Whitsundays' experiences and beauty of the region to key partners.

The two were joined by thirteen local operators who participated in presentations, industry briefings, and networking events and allowed operators to connect directly with the travel industry.

Public Relations and Social Media Executive, Rosanagh Gallivan also played a key role at the International Media Marketplace, forging connections with influential travel journalists.

By promoting unique Whitsundays stories and product offerings, Rosanagh aimed to secure positive media coverage and shine a spotlight on our region. 
 Contributed with thanks to Cait Fleming, Industry Development and Trade Manager, Tourism Whitsundays.

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Tourism Whitsunday, Industry Development and Trade Manager Cait Fleming, Public Relations and Social Media Executive Rosanagh Gallivan, and Marketing Manager Laura Knipe, Photo supplied.

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