As Christmas approaches, we tend to become caught up in the flurry of preparations for the celebration.  The decorations come out.  Celebratory food is prepared and gifts are chosen for giving to those we love.  
It is a time to reflect upon the awe experienced by the shepherds and the wise men as we view the beauty of peaceful, serene paintings and images of the nativity.  
However, Christmas is not just a lovely idea.  The message is serious.
It is a time for all Christians to reflect upon the beauty and glory of the gift of the great love, God has given to us in the incarnation of his Son our Lord Jesus Christ.
John the Baptist reminds us, it is the time to reflect and remember the gift of the good news brought to us by the birth of Jesus, is a gift God asks us to share with others.  It is a gift requiring awareness and self-discipline, in putting others ahead of ourselves.
May we be blessed with grace to grow and share the gift of God’s love and mercy, towards each person we encounter this Christmas and remember,  especially, those in need.

Supplied by Mackay Anglicans

‍

Residents living near the Ports of Mackay and Hay Point are encouraged to nominate for a seat on North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) community reference groups (CRGs).
NQBP Chief Executive Officer Brendan Webb said the CRGs, which have been running for more than 20 years, provide an invaluable link between the port authority and its communities.
“The Port of Mackay has been there every step of the way as our region established itself as a cornerstone for mining and trade in Northern Queensland,” Mr Webb said.
“And the Port of Hay Point is one of the largest steel-making coal export facilities in the world.
“These Ports are of tremendous benefit to Queenslanders, facilitating around 40,000 jobs and an economic contribution to the state of more than $22.2 Billion.
“We recognise that the port communities of both Mackay and Hay Point are an integral part of the Ports’ success story.”
The CRGs serve as a platform for community members to engage with NQBP on key issues, share feedback, and stay informed about port activities.
Members are also involved in shaping key community projects such as the recent improvement to Mackay’s North Wall Beach recreational area and identifying community projects for sponsorship.
Through this collaborative approach, NQBP aims to enhance its environmental stewardship, support local economic development, and contribute positively to the social fabric of the region.
The CRG positions are made up of a diverse range of representatives including Yuwi Aboriginal Corporation, local businesses, port industry, environment, and recreational users. The voluntary membership term is three years with the CRGs meeting three times each year.
Six positions, including three community representatives, one local Marina resident and two recreational group (boating, surfing or fishing) representatives, are available on the Port of Mackay CRG.
Nine positions are available for community representatives and interest group representatives on the Port of Hay Point CRG.
Nominations close 5 pm Friday 31 January 2025.
For more information and to apply, visit NQBP’s website.

‍

NQBPs Tim Lewis with Mackay CRG members Rachael Haycock, Alison Jones, Edan Stolberg and Elizabeth Warren at the unveiling of the Southern Breakwater as a 10,000 steps walkway in 2021

‍

We see Christmas light displays around the city, and I guess that means it's looking a lot like Christmas.  But what is this "Christmas" thing?
Christmas is a Christian celebration of the birth of Jesus of Nazareth, whom Christians believe to be God's promised Messiah: Saviour and Lord of all.
The public celebration of Christmas mixes a huge range of things from an equally huge range of sources and histories.  For example, Santa traces back to St. Nicholas, the 4th-century Christian bishop of Myrna, through many different historical pathways.
The tradition of giving gifts hails back to the magi who brought gifts to Jesus, but also to St Nicholas the gift-giver.
One half of the world celebrates Christmas deep in Winter, while for our half of the world, it is in the heart of summer.
Around the world today, Christmas is celebrated with many variations, but at heart, it is a feast day celebrating Jesus’ birth, most commonly with giving and receiving gifts.
There is also a sizable collection of traditional Christmas carols and a growing number of contemporary songs that get sung at this time of year, and numerous public gatherings for Christmas Carols.  This also has a long history.
There is a long tradition of attending church on Christmas Eve or Christmas morning.  Many churches have extra worship gatherings specifically for this celebration, and those for the Uniting Church around Mackay are listed here.  As always, anyone is welcome.
However you celebrate Christmas this year, we wish you God’s blessing.
‍

By Rev Wayne McHugh, on behalf of the Uniting Churches in and around Mackay.

‍

Although he has just completed Year 12, Leo Gorrion already has an impressive resume of stage production and design.
From set painting to lighting and sound for productions by both his school and the Mackay Musical Comedy Players, Leo is well on the way to a remarkable career.
Leo was named as this year’s recipient of the MECC’s Jack Sturgeon Bursary, which has tripled this year to $3000 thanks to a sponsorship by the Friends of the MECC.
The Mackay State High School graduate hopes to extend his passion for production design at the University of Melbourne in 2025, where he plans to study a Bachelor of Fine Arts (Production).
This year, council has offered $6000 in bursaries for talented visual and performing arts students from our region.
The Jack Sturgeon Bursary was one of two bursaries presented by Mayor Greg Williamson at a special morning tea last week.
Mayor Williamson said Leo’s achievements in stage production at such a young age were inspirational.
“Leo has had his sights fixed on this dream for a number of years, and council is pleased to be able to support him to achieve his dream,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Pursuing an artistic passion as a career is far from easy and tertiary education is becoming more expensive every year,” Mayor Williamson said.
“You have to take your hat off to a young person who has the courage to back themselves and their creative talents by undertaking a tertiary degree, especially away from home,” he said.
The $3000 Artspace Mackay Foundation Bursary recipient for 2024 is Visual Art student Ebony Wright.
Ebony is studying a Bachelor of Visual Art at Queensland College of Art, Griffith University, in Brisbane.
She is a Mackay local and attended Fitzgerald State School and Mackay North State High School.
“Ebony has been exploring collage as a new medium throughout her first year of art school,” Mayor Williamson said.
“She is doing this through prints, sculptures and painting and has found inspiration in the often-harsh truths we must face in the world and the beauty and resistance of nature,” he said.
“We are very pleased that Ebony hopes to return to Mackay after she graduates and encourage and establish a stronger community of emerging artists,” he said.

Jack Sturgeon Bursary recipient Leo Gorrion, second from left, and Artspace Mackay Foundation Bursary recipient Ebony Wright, second from right, with Mayor Greg Williamson, centre, Executive Manager MECC and Events Andrew Bobeldyk, far left, and Artspace Mackay Gallery Director Tracey Heathwood, far right

‍

Hi Everyone,

For the past few days, I have had my seven-year-old son on ‘work experience’ with me.

To make him feel special, I ordered him a fully branded work shirt and it was a moment of great pride when he first put the shirt over his head and stood in front of the mirror smiling.

Over the next two days we took the long drive up to the Hinchinbrook region where we inducted a new staff member, visited local businesses, took photos, attended a Chamber of Commerce meeting and even distributed the newspaper!

It was an action-packed and very hot few days that culminated in a purple sky thunderstorm as we drive back down the coast on Tuesday afternoon.

I was impressed with how well my son behaved, especially with the extra-long days, and I think he now has a new respect for the big busy schedule we all have at the newspaper.

This is the last issue of the newspaper for 2024 and on behalf of the entire team I would like to say a big thank you to all our readers for picking up the paper and connecting through the pages each week.

A special thank you also goes to our incredible advertisers, without all of you the community would not have a local printed paper so thank you all so much for choosing to spend your advertising dollars with us.

This has been an incredible year for our little publishing house.

Not only have we launched another new newspaper and hosted the Premier at our recent newspaper launch – we have also loved every minute of being the Best Free Newspaper in Queensland 2024.

Every paper we produced is packed with love, from the journos writing the stories to the sales team working closely with local businesses and the production team creating beautiful designs.

Each person in this team gives 100% all year and they deeply care about bringing the community an amazing paper each week, thanks for being a part of that.

Merry Christmas to you all and best wishes for a wonderful New Year ahead.

Rach

‍

Haven’t you heard? Christmas cheer has become more contagious than ever! Santa Barry has become a friendly face across the Whitsundays, sporting the fashionable gear of the jolly man himself and working tirelessly behind the scenes to keep the picturesque region pristine throughout the busting holiday season.

The Whitsunday Regional Council’s dedicated outdoor teams have been working their magic, keeping roads, drainage and waste systems, parks, gardens, and water services spick and span to ensure visitors and locals alike can indulge in all the region has to offer.

With the holidays well and truly in full swing, crews will be working all the way through the Christmas and New Year period, maintaining footpaths, and ensuring all parks, barbeque areas, playgrounds and everything in between are in tip top shape!

Santa Barry has a very important mission of his own this Christmas! In operating the footpath sweeper with the same precision Santa Claus himself pilots his spectacular sleigh, Santa Barry has been dressed from top to toe in a full Santa suit as he runs his early morning rounds through both Proserpine and Airlie Beach’s main streets.

Make sure you send a wave Santa Barry’s way if you spot him on his route!

‍

In this year's highly anticipated Christmas Lights Competition, organised by the Whitsunday Regional Council, the community was treated to a dazzling array of spectacular displays that truly captured the holiday spirit.
Among the standout entries was the brilliant light display on Walker Street in Collinsville, which was crowned the winner of the coveted ‘Best Street’ award. This extraordinary display featured a mesmerising interactive light show that captivated both children and adults alike, creating a festive atmosphere filled with joy and wonder. Families flocked to the street to experience the magic, with the synchronised lights and festive decorations sparking smiles and holiday cheer all around.
The true shining stars of this year’s Christmas Lights Competition, however, were undoubtedly Barry and Sandra Haran, whose spectacular display in Mahogany Place in Cannon Valley captured the hearts of everyone who passed by.
Their home in, a winter wonderland of twinkling lights, inflatable decorations, and festive charm, stood out as a true highlight of the competition.
From a towering, cheerful blow-up Santa to rows of sparkling fairy lights and candy cane accents, their display was magical.
The house left all visitors in awe, spreading holiday cheer to all who were lucky enough to experience it. Barry and Sandra’s dedication to creating such a vibrant, joyful atmosphere made them well-deserving winners, and their home became a beacon of Christmas spirit in the community.
Barry shared that the journey to their stunning light display begins as early as November each year. With meticulous planning and an eye for detail, they work tirelessly to create the breathtaking result now on full display at their home. The Harans have become well-known in the neighborhood for their commitment to spreading holiday joy, and Barry mentioned how he encourages his neighbors to join in the festive spirit.
Mayor Ry Collins presented Barry with his vouchers which were kindly provided by Sealink Whitsundays and Lake Proserpine Glamping and congratulated the couple on their fantastic efforts in bringing the Christmas spectacular to life.
Whitsunday Regional Council took to Facebook to thank all those who took part in the competition:
“A huge thank you to everyone who has decorated their homes and streets, bringing festive sparkle to the Whitsunday region.”
Although the competition has officially ended, you can still enjoy the stunning light displays throughout the area. A convenient map highlighting all the display locations, can be easily accessed through the council's website. Don't miss the chance to experience these captivating installations before they’re gone:
bit.ly/4giseRy

‍

Mayor Ry Collins presenting winner of the Christmas Lights Competition Barry Haran with his prize. Photo credit: Ruth Puddefoot

‍

At the Ordinary monthly meeting in Proserpine last week Council adopted a new Flying Fox Policy and Management Plan and Collinsville Roost Management Plan to address the challenges posed by Flying Fox roosts in the region.
Mayor Ry Collins expressed his thoughts on the new policy:
“This new policy represents a significant step forward and ensures that we balance the needs of our community with our environmental responsibilities.”
Flying Foxes are a protected species under Queensland legislation, and wildlife management is primarily a responsibility of the state governments and landholders.
The new policy, however, includes three key amendments to clarify council's role within the management of flying foxes.
Firstly, for roosts on council-controlled land, council will assess and undertake appropriate management actions based on the cost, likelihood of success and impact on the community.
Secondly, for roosts on private land, council encourage landholders to take approved actions to manage the issue while offering coordination and potential funding support within their allocated budget.
Lastly, for roosts outside of urban areas, these will be referred to the state government as council states that they do not have any jurisdiction in these cases.
So far, management of the flying fox issue has cost over $416,000 since 2021, which council states highlights the scale of this challenge.
Mayor Ry Collins, claims that this is a complex issue with no one size fits all solution however the adoption of the new council flying fox policy “marks a clear pathway forward – one that reflects a more strategic and responsive approach, aligning with both community expectations and state guidelines.”

‍

What began as a simple conversation with two homeless men in a park sparked the creation of a regular Thursday lunch gathering at the Lagoon.
Barb Hill, an organiser with Drug Arm Mackay, approached the men and asked how she could assist them. Their response was straightforward, they needed food. This led Barb to develop the idea of providing regular meals, which has since expanded to weekly gatherings in both Airlie Beach and Bowen.
While the meet-ups are a great way for individuals to have food and socialise, they also offer a support network, where people can be connected with essential services.
Barb expressed that everyone is welcome:
“Homelessness looks different to different people.
“It doesn't just mean someone sleeping in the garden, it can be in their cars, or other places.
“What we do is bring that connection and non-judgment.”
Alongside organising social gatherings, Barb also has nonperishable food items, sleeping bags, sleeping mats, clothes and personal hygiene products, that she brings along for anyone who may need it.
“We operate on donation for the outreach, It's not funded at all.
“The Neighbourhood Centre also helps out much as they can.”
Alongside a fantastic Christmas spread, there was even a special appearance from Santa, who brought along a fruit platter for the event.
“It's planting the seed of kindness and compassion, and in turn, helps them in the long term,” Barb explained.

‍

Santa delivering the fruit platter
The wonderful volunteers
Everyone enjoying their Christmas lunch
The delicious Christmas spread

‍

The Proserpine Mill has officially concluded its 2024 crushing season due to wet field conditions and an inadequate cane supply, according to Wilmar Sugar Proserpine Cane Supply Manager Peter Luke.
The mill ceased processing operations last Thursday, 12th of December, following widespread rain that significantly hindered harvesting efforts. A storm on Monday night compounded the situation, delivering 40mm to 120mm of rain across the region and further delaying any chance of field recovery.
Discussions with harvesting sector representatives and growers confirmed that cane supply was unlikely to improve enough to justify continued operations and after consulting grower representatives earlier this week, the decision was made to officially shut down the mill for the season.
Despite the challenges, the Proserpine Mill managed to process approximately 1.67 million tonnes of cane, achieving 97 per cent of the total forecast crop for the year with Peter thanking growers and harvesting contractors for their dedication and hard work throughout the season.
“I’d like to thank all growers and harvesting contractors for their efforts throughout the 2024 season and extend our best wishes for a safe and relaxing Christmas with family and friends,” shared Pete.
Looking ahead, the mill will now focus on preparing for the 2025 season, with hopes for better weather and harvesting conditions in the year ahead.

‍

The Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassador Program is dedicated to ensuring that every passenger has a warm and welcoming experience in the Whitsundays. From offering helpful tips on local activities to assisting with the coordination of cruise ship markets, each ambassador plays a unique and vital role in creating a memorable visit for all guests.
Last Wednesday, the ambassadors gathered to celebrate Christmas and reflect on a successful year for tourism in the region.
Lyn Blanche Woodham, Leader of the Whitsunday Cruise Ship Ambassador Program, expressed her appreciation for the volunteers' hard work and commitment over the past year:
"I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all our Cruise Ambassadors for their dedication and time. I hope everyone enjoys a well-deserved break over Christmas."
According to the 2023-24 economic impact report on cruising in Australia by Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) and the Australian Cruise Association (ACA), Airlie Beach has emerged as a key contributor to the state's overall performance. The region saw an impressive 144,959 passenger days, generating direct expenditure of $57.39 million, underscoring its growing importance as a cruise destination.

‍

The Cruise Ambassadors celebrating christmas in Style

‍

This week, the Proserpine Community Centre had the honor of welcoming a very special VIP guest all the way from the North Pole—none other than Santa Claus himself! But this wasn't just any ordinary visit. Santa made a grand and unforgettable entrance, arriving in style on a stunning Harley Davidson motorcycle, much to the excitement and delight of the gathered crowd.
Accompanied by his acrobatically talented elf, who added a touch of flair and fun to the festivities, Santa spent the afternoon spreading joy and holiday cheer. He handed out an abundance of treats and goodies, and posed for countless family photos in front of a beautifully decorated Christmas tree.
But Santa's visit wasn’t just about spreading festive cheer in Proserpine. Santa had an important mission to accomplish, one that spanned the entire Whitsundays. His task? To make sure he visited every child in the region and spread some Christmas magic. According to the Proserpine Community Centre, Mr. Claus' mission was a resounding success!
With his mission complete, Santa Claus will now be heading back to the North Pole to finalize his preparations ahead of next Wednesday’s big day. The elves are no doubt busy wrapping up the final touches at the North Pole, as Santa gets ready for his annual global journey to deliver presents and holiday cheer to children all around the world.

Santa on his Harley at the Proserpine Community Centre.

‍

As I wrap up my second month at Tourism Whitsundays, I’m really settling in and enjoying the chance to connect with our amazing Whitsundays community. It’s been a fantastic journey so far, and as we approach the end of the year, I wanted to share an update on tourism in our region.
This week, we received the National and International Visitor Survey update for the year ending September 2024, and the results are promising. Domestic tourism continues to grow, with visitor spend hitting $1.4 billion—up 12% from last year. We also saw a 2% increase in domestic visitors, reaching 742,000. The average visitor stayed longer too, with total nights rising 6% to 3.3 million, and average spend per person climbing by nearly 10% to $1,927.
On the international front, recovery is strong and in line with Queensland and Australia but still has a little way to go. Visitor numbers have hit 188,000, which is 85% of pre-pandemic levels and holiday visitor nights are up to 1.1 million, a recovery of 80%. Visitors from the UK and USA have seen significant growth, with numbers from the UK increasing by 30% and USA visitors increasing by 18%.
It’s clear that The Whitsundays continues to shine, and I’m excited to see what 2025 holds. Wishing everyone in The Whitsundays a Merry Christmas and a safe, relaxing holiday season!

Contributed by Tim Booth, CEO, Tourism Whitsundays

Tim Booth, CEO, Tourism Whitsundays.

‍

Recently, Jade visited Azure Sea Resort to speak with managers Stuart and Nicole Morris. Located in Airlie Beach, this resort offers stunning 180-degree views over the Coral Sea towards Hayman Island. Azure Sea Resort features 30 exquisitely appointed, fully equipped apartments accessible via lift. Guests can relax in tropical gardens or enjoy a spectacular infinity-edge waterfall swimming pool that flows into a second pool. Conveniently, the resort is only an 8-minute walk from the beach and shopping areas.
Stuart and Nicole were honoured as the 'Resident Managers of the Year' for 2024 at the ARAMA Awards. This prestigious recognition reflects their outstanding management of a premier Australian holiday destination. Since taking over the resort in December 2022, they completed a refurbishment of the 255,000-litre pools and spa in just six weeks—well ahead of the initially estimated three months.
While managing the renovations and coordinating with three Body Corporates, they also launched a successful marketing campaign that significantly improved investor returns. Since their arrival, the letting pool has increased by 25%. This award highlights the importance of delivering excellent service in property management and exemplifies how dedicated efforts can enhance the overall experience for both owners and guests at the resort.

Contributed by Jade Yvonne, Business Development Executive,  Tourism Whitsundays
Caption: Azure Sea Resort

‍

Having recently taken over the iconic Kevla Espresso Bar in Bowen, new owner Brad Williams is enthusiastic about the café’s future. With years of experience in hospitality, Brad has long dreamed of running his own business, a vision he has now brought to life after transitioning from the coal mines to the café industry.
Kevla Espresso Bar offers a delightful selection of coffees, mouthwatering paninis, and a variety of healthy options, all served in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Tucked away on Murroona Street, just behind the chiropractor's office and nestled within the gym, this hidden gem is the perfect spot to relax and recharge.
Brad shared that the decision to take over Kevla Espresso Bar was driven by his passion for the hospitality sector and his desire to create a welcoming space for the community.
When asked what sets Kevla Espresso Bar apart from other local eateries, Brad highlighted the café’s exceptional coffee.
“One of our main selling points is our coffee,” he said. “We source our beans from Kai Coffee on the Sunshine Coast, which allows us to serve a smooth, rich cup every time.”
Along with the exceptional coffees, the outstanding service and the dedication of manager Abbie Paul truly elevate the entire experience at Kevla Espresso Bar:
“Abbie is a young local from Bowen, and she runs the place so well!” Brad added.
The business is deeply involved in the community, organizing events such as toy runs and lolly drops in collaboration with local firefighters and paramedics. In addition, they host suicide prevention initiatives and, just this week, invited families to a Christmas cookie and craft workshop.
Looking ahead, Brad envisions taking Kevla Espresso Bar to new heights by diversifying its offerings and creating a dynamic space for both the local community and corporate clients.
One of his key goals is to position the Espresso Bar as a prime venue for corporate events, providing a relaxed yet professional atmosphere for meetings, workshops, and team-building sessions.
Additionally, Brad is excited to expand the café's menu to include convenient picnic and takeaway options, allowing customers to enjoy Kevla Espresso Bar’s delicious food and drinks wherever they go.
The cafe's outdoor space is also something Brad is eager to maximize. With plans to host live music on Sundays. To make the space even more family-friendly, Brad is exploring the idea of adding an outdoor play area for children, ensuring that families can enjoy a leisurely meal while their little ones have fun in a safe and engaging environment.
If you are in Bowen head on over and say hi and enjoy the delicious offerings of Kevla Espresso Bar.

‍

Head over to Kevla Espresso Bar to try one of their locally loved coffees.
A hidden gem in Bowen.

‍