On March 20, Whitsunday and Bowen SES celebrated 50 years of service, bringing recognition to decades of dedicated support for the community.

To mark the milestone, the SES flag has been travelling across Queensland since last year, visiting communities far and wide.

This month, the flag arrived in the Whitsundays, making stops at some of the region’s most iconic locations, including Peter Faust Dam in Proserpine.

Bowen SES were also pleased to have visited Gilmour Space and Abott Point with the flag.

This is a significant occasion that marks five decades of vital work ensuring the region stays protected during emergencies and natural disasters. A great thanks to all SES volunteers both past and present who have dedicated crucial time and immense effort to helping people across the region.

Captions

1. Whitsunday SES at Peter Faust Dam in Proserpine.
2. Bowen SES at Gilmour Space. Photo source: Facebook

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The Queensland Community Energy Forum in Proserpine drew a strong crowd last week, with around 130 residents, landholders, Traditional Owners, industry representatives and government officials coming together for an open and constructive conversation about the region’s energy and resources future.

Hosted by Coexistence Queensland in partnership with the Whitsunday Regional Council, Queensland Renewable Energy Council (QREC), and the Queensland Resources Council, the forum focused on practical and locally relevant information, highlighting the importance of landholder, neighbour and broader community engagement as part of project developments.

Mayor Ry Collins said the strong turnout reflects the community’s desire for clarity and meaningful input.

“The Whitsunday Region has a diverse mix of industries and a strong history of being a resources and energy producer,” Mayor Collins said.

“The conversations at the forum emphasised the importance of putting local voices at the centre of the conversation for new resources and energy development.

“It is vital that the community has access to clear, practical information and a genuine opportunity to ask questions and raise issues directly with industry and government.

“This forum brought those voices together in one room and was a critical component of the ongoing conversation around resources and energy projects in this region, ensuring developments deliver a lasting legacy for the community.”

Warwick Squire, CEO, Coexistence Queensland said that a strong focus on community engagement, open conversations, and collaborative partnerships was essential.

“The energy and resources conversation is important for many Queensland communities and a consistent message is that benefits and impacts of development need to be understood and managed appropriately,” Mr Squire said.

“The Queensland Community Energy Forum provided a place to bring everyone together to have those conversations.”

The forum brought together QREC members, including Powerlink Queensland, Alinta Energy, and GHD, to engage directly with community members and local businesses on proposed developments across the Whitsundays energy project pipeline.

A topic on the top of some attendees’ minds was a divisive Alinta proposal that seeks approval of 30 wind turbines near Proserpine.

CANEGROWERS reported growers were attending with questions surrounding the proposal. Proserpine Chairman for the company, Glenn Clarke, said while growers understood the need for renewable energy, they wanted to ensure their concerns were properly heard before any determination on planning approval.

“This isn’t about opposing renewable energy,” Mr Clarke said.

“But when a project of this scale is proposed in the middle of a productive farming district, growers have every right to understand what it means for their operations and their future.

“Construction traffic, access to haulage routes, aerial spraying, fire risk and the movement of large machinery are all real operational issues for farmers, and they need to be carefully worked through.”

The Proserpine Forum has indeed played an integral part in hosting crucial dialogue, as conversation continues to unfold surrounding energy development and innovation in and around our region.

CAPTIONS:

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1 - Jana Dore, Policy Director, External Affairs, Queensland Resources Council, Katie-Anne Mulder, CEO, Queensland Renewable Energy Council, Cr Ry Collins, Mayor, Whitsunday Regional Council, Warwick Squire, CEO, Coexistence Queensland, Glenn Clarke, Chair, Canegrowers Proserpine, and Stephanie McKechnie, Energy Engagement and Education Advisor, Queensland Farmers’ Federation.
2 – Discussion sessions highlighted the importance of landholder, neighbour and broader community engagement as part of project developments.
3-6 – 130 members of the community attended the forum on March 20th.

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Last week in Bowen, Elizabeth Myrtle Wilson celebrated her 100^th Birthday, surrounded by her children, grandchildren, Cunningham Villas staff, and—in true Betty-style—heaps of chocolate.

Elizabeth was born in 1926 in Singleton NSW, the second of six children to William Lucas Coffey and Delda Myrtle Coffey. Her father served as a Light Horseman in WW1, serving in Egypt and Palestine before being wounded in the Somme. Repatriated to Australia, he was given a small 1000 acre farm in Fernvale, where he raised his family.

It was a hard childhood for Elizabeth, but one full of love. The farmland was plagued with drought, and Elizabeth had to walk a mile a day to fetch buckets of water, working hard to farm sheep alongside her parents. She rode her pony to school on the days they weren’t taken by horse and buggy.

The family even had a pet pig – a gorgeous, clean animal that followed them like a dog. Unfortunately, when times were hard, the pet became a luxury they could no longer afford, and they had to eat him to make ends meet.

According to Elizabeth’s daughter, Kerrie, Elizabeth’s mother Delda was “a real pioneer, a remarkable woman in so many ways.” She raised six children in these unforgiving circumstances, keeping them fed and clothed against all odds.

Elizabeth met her future husband, Elton Wilson, at a dance during the second world war years.

“My father was very musical, and he was up playing the trumpet on stage.” Kerrie explained.

“And Dad's never danced in his life. He hated dancing, but he saw my mother there with with my aunt, and he jumped down from the stage and started dancing with mum. That was virtually love at first sight.”

The pair wed in 1946, and started a family in Singleton, having their first children, Susan and John. They built a home, and sadly, lost it, when floods took away everything they owned.

So, they moved, and began to rebuild. Elton’s work took them to Sydney, Gove, and Tumut, before they eventually settled in Collinsville, where Kerrie was born. Elton worked in mining and Elizabeth opened a dress shop that became hugely popular amongst locals.

She had always been a beautiful dresser and was very well known for her intricate crocheting and knitting- also renowned for her traditional Christmas cakes.

Otherwise, she dedicated her life to her family.

“She saved every cent they could so that we children would ultimately benefit in the end from their hard work.” Kerrie explains.

There were times when it didn’t seem Elizabeth would reach the century milestone.

“She is regarded as an incredible woman and nearly died on 3 occasions.” Kerrie says.

“One of those after contracting Human Metapneumovirus.  All of the Doctors and Nurses said she would not recover from this.

“But despite them calling a Priest to give her last rites, she defied us all.  She did this again and again.”

Now, Elizabeth has piles of cards congratulating her on her long life, from respected figures including the King of England, the Premier of Australia, and Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox.

She spent her 100^th birthday surrounded by loved ones, doing her favourite activity – eating chocolate – which, Kerrie jokes, is perhaps the secret to her longevity.

1 – Elizabeth’s 100th birthday was celebrated in style.
2 – A beloved member of our community, Elizabeth has lived a long and fascinating life.

Bowen-raised Judah Kelly has made headlines across the nation with his recent Oscar victory as part of the short film The Singers. Speaking to Judah over the phone, you would never have guessed he had won both an Oscar and the sixth season of The Voice. In conversation, he displayed a deep humility and genuine gratitude for how far he has come.

Long before The Voice auditions and Oscar red carpets, Judah began his singing journey performing around Bowen after moving there in 2006.

“We met a local musician called Ahi. He sold my parents a PA system and got them set up with a karaoke business,” Judah said.

At just 10 years of age, Judah began singing in and around Bowen, with the old Denison Hotel becoming a key performing spot.

“I would sing until 10pm and then I’d have a taxi waiting to take me home every night. That’s really how I started gigging.”

After getting his P-plates, Judah set out to perform in as many locations across Queensland as possible.

“The first year I had my P-plates, I did 90,000km. I played pretty much wherever anyone would pay me.”

Following his studies and a move to Brisbane, Judah auditioned for The X Factor, though success did not come straight away.

“I did X Factor twice and thought TV was not for me. One day I was playing at a festival out in Birdsville and I knew some friends on the lineup. Their drummer said to me ‘If I could get you on The Voice, would you go on?’ It turned out her partner was a scout for the show.”

A chance encounter led to the opportunity of a lifetime, though last-minute doubts almost saw Judah walk away.

“You know it was just a major hassle at the time. The day before I made an excuse and got out of it. A year later they followed up again and I thought – hey, if they’re putting in this much effort I may as well give it a go. I went in thinking I wouldn’t make it very far… Then I just kept getting through round after round. Then I made it to the top 12. I thought – it’s been a good run, I’ll probably be the first eliminated – and then it just never happened.”

Despite his doubts, Judah went on to win the sixth season of The Voice Australia in 2017, earning the title ‘King Judah’.

The win launched a successful music career, with the release of his debut single Count on Me shortly after.

Now, he has added another major milestone to his career, taking home an Oscar for his role in The Singers.

“It’s like winning the lottery by accident. I’m not an actor, I’d never even thought about it.”

During the experience, Judah met a number of stars, including musical hero Buddy Guy. He also crossed paths with acclaimed actors Joel Edgerton and Anya Taylor-Joy, while spotting superstars Michael B. Jordan and Timothée Chalamet from afar.

With such achievements comes perspective, and Judah shared an important message for aspiring artists.

“If you’re presented an opportunity – follow it. I had a teacher one day tell me I needed to be quiet because I wasn’t going to achieve anything. I’m just lucky I have parents who would never let me believe it. I do wonder how many people don’t have that. How many people are put off by bad advice or doubt?”

Judah is currently touring with a Motown tribute show, The Big Chillout, and shows no signs of slowing down.

He has undoubtedly made the Bowen community incredibly proud.

Captions

Photo supplied

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This beautiful boy, Kobe, has now been in care for 206 days, patiently waiting for his forever family to find him. He’s watched so many others head off to their new homes — and we would love nothing more than to see his turn come next.

Kobe is an energetic, fun-loving boy who truly shines when he has space to move.

He loves:

• Long runs alongside a quad bike

• Ute rides, Bunnings trips and river swimming

• Being included in everyday family life

• A property with plenty of room to burn off energy

Kobe would do best with an active family who can give him the physical exercise and ongoing training he needs to continue being his best self.  He is great with well-mannered dogs his size after a slow and positive introduction.

This boy has so much love and loyalty to give. After 169 days in care, he deserves a couch to call his own and a family who sees just how special he is.

If you think you could be Kobe’s forever home, please reach out to the team at Lucy’s Lucky Tags & Dog Rescue Inc. Let’s find this deserving boy the happy ending he’s been waiting for.

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At Mackay’s Bluewater Lagoon, a recent string of incidents has prompted council to flush out a new awareness campaign, urging visitors to keep what belongs in the loo out of the lagoon.

Since late September, nine faecal incidents have forced temporary closures at the popular facility, with each one carrying both a financial and social cost to the community.

Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson said while the campaign may lean into light-hearted messaging, the issue itself remains serious.

“From today (Monday, March 23), we’ve got a brand-new campaign to keep the poo out of the pool. It might sound a little flippant, but it carries a very serious message,” he said.

“Every time there’s a code brown at our facilities, it costs about $3,000 – and we’ve had nine since the end of September.

“That’s a significant amount of money just to make sure the pool is clean and sanitised.”

The impact, he said, goes far beyond a simple disruption.

“There’s also the social impact of these unplanned closures – kid’s birthday parties, school events and family days out are all thrown into disarray.

“Each time the Bluewater Lagoon has to close for a faecal incident, it takes a minimum of six hours for our team to cycle and treat the water and re-open the facility.”

Bluewater Lagoon venue manager Kimberly Armstrong said the disruptions take a toll on both visitors and staff.

“It can get quite frustrating… People come here for a fun day out with family and friends, and that’s taken away when these incidents occur,” she said.

“We immediately close the pool, evacuate the area and notify the water treatment team to begin the sanitation process.

“There is also definitely a health risk, which is why we go through microbiological and scientific testing to ensure the water is safe,” Ms Armstrong said.

“It is an extended process, which is why people can be out of the pool for several hours.”

While the source of incidents is difficult to pinpoint, younger swimmers are often part of the equation.

“We’re probably looking at younger children, around two to three years old, but accidents do happen,” she said.

“Kids get busy, they get preoccupied, and they’re not thinking about going to the bathroom.”

With up to 300 to 400 people visiting the lagoon on busy days, even one incident can quickly disrupt the entire facility.

The campaign urges families to take simple steps to prevent closures, including teaching children to take regular toilet breaks.

As part of the campaign, free swim nappies are now available on site.

“If you don’t have a swim nappy, we’ve got them here — free until the end of the summer period.

“We’re not here to be punitive. This is about awareness and getting the message across,” he said.

“Swim nappies on kids are absolutely essential, and toilet breaks are absolutely essential.”

Mayor Greg Williamson and Bluewater Lagoon manager Kimberley Armstrong met to launch a new campaign aimed at preventing pool closures from ‘Code Browns’. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

By Hannah McNamara

In a celebration of the weird, the wonderful and the surprisingly cute, Star 101.9’s Scotty and Kaley brought plenty of laughs to the region last Saturday with their ‘Mackay and Whitsunday’s Ugliest Pet Competition,’ held at Digger Landscape Supplies in Bucasia.

A quirky line-up of local contenders drew smiles from the crowd, with Frankie the dog, Tiny the hairless cat, and Shaun the goat all vying for the title. But it was Sarah Parrot’s pooch Pippy who ultimately stole the spotlight, taking out first place and earning the title of Mackay and Whitsundays’ ugliest pet with captivating style.

Each contestant walked away a winner in their own right, receiving a framed photo, while Pippy proudly took home the trophy. Frankie placed second, Tiny secured third, and Shaun the goat rounded out the competition in fourth.

Digger Landscape Supplies owner Joel, who helped judge the pets alongside Star 101.9 radio hosts, said the idea came about quickly and was all about bringing the community – and ugliest pets – together.

“We thought it’s pretty awesome… it’s all about bringing the community together and having a bit of a laugh… I suppose also to get the ugly pets out,” he laughed.

Joel admitted the judging process wasn’t necessarily easy.

“Some of the pets here are actually a bit terrifying… But they’re also quite cute in their own little way.”

While Pippy claimed the crown, Joel revealed he had a soft spot for another contestant.

“I actually really loved the hairless cat – it didn’t look too impressed to be here though,” he joked.

For Pippy’s owner Sarah Parrott, the win was a light-hearted moment for her much-loved companion.

“Poor Pippy… she’s a very unique little dog,” she said. “She’s just got that unique little personality. She’s so out there, and she goes everywhere with us.”

Now 10 years old, Pippy’s bold personality and unmistakable appearance have made her a standout wherever she goes.

“When everybody sees her, they’re like… ‘What is that?’,” Sarah giggled.

“She’s a Chinese Crested cross, with a Papillon mix on her mother’s side.”

With laughter, personality and plenty of unconventional charm on display, the event proved that beauty truly is in the eye of the beholder, and even the quirkiest pets can capture our hearts!

1^st place winner Pippy with her owner Sarah Parrott

2^nd place contestant Frankie with his owner Jodie Grosskreutz

3^rd place contestant Tiny the cat, who was eager to get back home.

4^th place contestant Shaun the goat, with her owner Cassie Dawes.

Group pic - Star 101.9 hosts Scotty and Kaley joined contestants and organisers at Digger Landscape Supplies for the Mackay and Whitsundays’ Ugliest Pet Competition, where Pippy the dog, owned by Sarah Parrott, was crowned the region’s ugliest pet. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

On Sunday 22^nd March, Coral Marina Gardens was flooded with a sea of purple as the community turned out in support of domestic violence survivors, raising awareness and funds for the Women’s Legal Service Queensland. Participants walked the Bicentennial Walkway, with kids, friends, and dogs in tow, in a huge turnout that made organisers proud.

The event took place in four hubs across Queensland: Brisbane, the Gold Coast, the Sunshine Coast, and here in Airlie Beach. The combined events raised $350,000.

1 – Participants in purple took to the board walk to make a stand against DV. Photo supplied

The Community Paints the Boardwalk Purple

Participants in the Epic Walk for DV donned purple t-shirts and walked 5 kilometers for the Women’s Legal Service Queensland this weekend, supporting their efforts to support survivors of family and domestic violence.

Bright and early on Sunday morning, participants congregated at Coral Marina Gardens, where a coffee van, sausage sizzle, and music boosted energy ahead of the walk. Whilst pop-ups from Whitsunday Counselling Support and Zonta raised funds and awareness, organisers gave speeches and led warmups before setting the walkers on their way.

The event was hosted by Real Estate agent and 2026 Dancing CEO, Clarice Davis, with special guests including the CEO of Women’s Legal Service Queensland, Nadia Bromley. Those wishing to contribute can still donate via the QR code below.

1 - Kara Drury Amanda Venaglia Lisa Jackson Charli Goldspeink

2- Felicity, Freya and Claudia representing Whitsunday Counselling & Support.

3 - Jo Parker, Melita Hensley, Margaret Kennedy, Nicki Firmin, Helen Newell, Dominique Noire.

4- Zoran from Whitsundays Self-Defence Academy giving practical tips.

5 - Peter Wetherby, Niamh Mulvihill & Bailey.

6 - Sarah Dean, Airlie Norton, Leanne Burnett, Jack Markham, Jamie Coles, Jordan Wilkie, Kiana Sims

7 - CEO of Women’s Legal Service Queensland Nadia Bromley & Epic Walk host, Clarice Davis.

8 - Michael and Mandy with glammed-up Miss Bling & Dash.

9 - Jade Yvonne, Sam, Jessica and Billy.

10 - Jono and Stacie Cutting.

11 - Kimberly Hose, Carolyn Lewis & Teddy.

12 – Nicki Firmin & Mayor Ry Collins.

13 – The walk begins. Photo credit: Suzanna Mcloughlin.

QR – Scan here to donate

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Whitsunday Anglican School’s Junior School was awash with colour earlier this month, as students donned red and yellow in support of surf lifesaving as part of the nationwide Red & Yellow Day initiative.

Held annually on March 4, the event recognises the vital contribution of volunteer surf lifesavers who dedicate their time to keeping Australian beaches safe.

Students from Prep to Year 4 took part in an engaging beach safety session, led by Senior School students Zara, Hayden, Amelia and Nate, alongside staff, volunteers and Nippers from Eimeo Surf Life Saving Club. The presentation reinforced key safety messages and highlighted the importance of awareness in and around the surf.

Funds raised through the initiative will be distributed to local clubs across the Mackay region, including Mackay Surf Life Saving Club, Sarina Beach Surf Life Saving Club and Eimeo Beach Surf Life Saving Club, supporting the ongoing efforts of volunteers on the frontline of beach safety.

Photo source: Whitsunday Anglican School

This Saturday, Mackay will light up as local and regional dancers take to the stage for Dancing With Heart 2026, an event that blends entertainment, courage, and community spirit for an important cause. Now in its third year, the annual event has quickly become a standout on the Mackay social calendar, drawing crowds eager to see familiar faces step out of their comfort zones and onto the dance floor.

Guided by celebrated choreographer Dolly Low and supported by the talented performers from Fame Talent School, each routine promises to deliver energy, skill, and heart. From rehearsed routines to last-minute improvisation, the performers are dedicating their time and talent to bring a night of dazzling entertainment, all while raising vital support for the My Hospital Foundation. Guests will have the chance to vote for the People’s Choice Award, putting them at the heart of the action, while one standout dancer will be crowned with the coveted Mirror Ball Trophy.

Proceeds from tickets go directly to enhancing patient care and comfort in our local hospitals, helping families and patients when they need it most.

Attendees will also enjoy a special main-course meal, an indulgent cheese platter, bottled wine on the table, and a drink on arrival, making it a night for all the senses.

One stage. One night. Countless memories and a lifetime of impact. Dancing With Heart 2026 presented by Mackay City Auto Group is at its most vibrant, compassionate, and connected — and it’s not to be missed!

Simon Robinson

Sergeant at Queensland Police Service

Simon Robinson is a familiar face to the community of Mackay, having dedicated 22 years to policing our streets.

Simon spent 17 of those years in Highway Patrol, riding the police motorcycle, leading parades and events and promoting road safety across the region.

Today, his role sees him working closely with local youth through sporting and community programs.

Before joining the police service, Simon spent nine years working at Mackay Base Hospital.

In October 2023, he was diagnosed with an aggressive, life-threatening melanoma under the nail of his right big toe. Thanks to some incredible doctors’ expertise, he recovered, though the treatment required the amputation of his right big toe; “Not great for dancing,” he jokes. He now encourages others to prioritise regular skin checks.

Outside of his police work, family is at the centre of everything. Simon has been married for 32 years to “an amazing woman who supported me throughout my career”, with whom he has raised two beautiful daughters.

Recently Simon has been supporting his wife in running the Driving Miss Daisy Mackay North franchise, helping locals through companionship and transport services.

What have you found the most difficult?

The only moves I have on the dance floor are dad moves! Counting steps is extremely challenging when I have the attention span of a goldfish and two left feet.

What do you love the most about the My Hospital Foundation?

Medical treatment is a reality for everyone at some point. Supporting this foundation and others like it provides vital assistance during those difficult times, for both patients and their families. It is a meaningful way to give back to our community and express our deep gratitude to the Mackay Health Service staff and volunteers, whose dedication we often take for granted.

Tegan McGovern
Fitstop Owner/ Personal Trainer

Mackay local Tegan McGovern is stepping into the spotlight this Saturday for Dancing With Heart, bringing with her a grounded sense of purpose shaped by community, consistency and care.

A Fitstop owner and personal trainer, Tegan takes great pride in her connection to Mackay, having spent her life growing up across the region and the Northern Beaches. It’s a familiarity that has helped shape both her personal and professional identity.

“I grew up in Mackay and the northern beaches my entire life, but really it wasn’t until I started my Fitness career that I found a place I felt I could make an impact,” she said.

Through her work, Tegan has found meaning in helping others, describing the role as more than just physical training.

“Fitstop and Personal training is such a wonderful way to be a part of people’s lives and have a positive impact.”

That same mindset carries into how she hopes to be remembered.

“I would like to be remembered for the good I have tried to put out into the world, even under pressure,” she said.

“Being an example to my family and community is important to who I want people to know me as.”

As she prepares for the stage, Tegan said the experience has already delivered memorable moments.

“Meeting the team behind the dream and the other participants has been such a highlight.”

What have you found the most difficult?

I am terrible at remembering choreo it turns out ...

What do you love the most about My Hospital Foundation?

I think the work that My Hospital Foundation does to support the local community and making sure those who require the health services provided have the best possible experience is so important to the overall outcomes of patient care.

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Five-month-old Oreo is a playful mixed-breed pup with a bright personality and plenty of love to give, but he is still waiting for a place to call home.

Described as a clever and curious young dog, Oreo is a quick learner who enjoys training, chasing toys and exploring the backyard. Like most puppies, he has plenty of energy and would thrive in a home where he can run, play and continue learning as he grows.

Oreo would particularly benefit from a home with another friendly dog to help keep him company and guide him as he develops his confidence. A securely fenced yard is recommended so he can safely burn off his happy puppy energy.

The young pup comes microchipped and up to date with his vaccinations, including Leptospirosis and heartworm. A desexing voucher is also included as part of his adoption.

Those looking for a loyal companion, playful sidekick and future best friend are encouraged to consider giving Oreo the loving home he has been waiting for.

For more information or to arrange a meet and greet, contact his carer Cheryl on 0408 133 822 from Lucy’s Lucky Tags & Dog Rescue Inc

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One of the realities I’ve found in leadership is that every decision carries weight. When decisions affect a whole community, there will always be different views, expectations and outcomes, not just the ones people may assume I represent.

As a councillor, I represent all parts of our community. Some people will agree with decisions, others will not. That is the nature of public responsibility. That is the reality of democracy.

Some people may also assume that because you are elected by the people, you must choose a side. But local government isn’t about sides. It’s about everyone. I was elected by many different people across our community, and that responsibility requires considering the broader picture.

For me, the most important element in decision-making is perspective – accurate perspective.

In today’s environment, opinions move quickly and certain voices can become very loud. Those voices matter, but leadership requires looking beyond the immediate noise to understand the full picture. It means taking a step back to see the bigger picture. It means listening to community members, local businesses, families and organisations who live with the outcomes of decisions every day.

At the same time, decisions must also consider long-term responsibilities, budgets, sustainability of services and the future needs of our region. Sometimes these realities collide, and those are the moments when leadership is tested most.

If you ever find yourself wondering what issues are being discussed, or how decisions are being considered, I encourage you to come along to one of council’s “Let’s Chat” sessions. These conversations are an opportunity to share perspectives, raise concerns and help ensure the voices shaping our community decisions are as broad and informed as possible.

Because good decisions begin with good perspective, and the best perspective often come from the community itself.

Let’s Chat – Council Connect

Residents can catch up with councillors in person at upcoming Let’s Chat - Council Connect sessions held across the region.  The next session will be held at Bob Wood Cultural Hall in Sarina at 5pm on Tuesday, April 7.

Further details can be found on the Connecting Mackay website.

By Cr Namarca Corowa

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Kris Cotter is the epitome of strength.

What was sent to destroy her soon became the driving force behind creating change, not only within herself, but for the many Australians who lace up their steel-cap boots each day and head into the field.

Founder of the Regional Safety Expo Australia and owner of Synergy Safety Solutions Pty Ltd, Kris’s passion for workplace safety was shaped by personal experience.

Nearly 20 years ago, while working in construction as a rigger, scaffold and crane operator, she was seriously injured in a workplace incident at the Gladstone Power Station – a moment that would ultimately change the course of her life.

“An eight-foot scaffold plank dropped six meters above me… it flew past my face, hit my right shoulder and elbow, and crushed my right hand inside my glove while I was holding another plank,” she said.

“It scared the living daylights out of me and was the pivotal moment that pushed my safety career forward.

“I didn’t want something like that to happen to anybody else.”

Determined to ensure others wouldn’t endure the same experience, Kris immersed herself in the study of workplace safety. She completed a bachelor’s degree in health and safety, followed by a diploma and later a master’s degree in advanced safety science – all while working and raising five children as a single mother.

Today, that determination has evolved into a broader mission. Through her consultancy work and the creation of the Regional Safety Expo Australia, Kris hopes to spark stronger, more positive safety conversations across industries and regional communities.

“My passion is positive safety conversations,” she said.

“If people walk away from the expo having learned something from another industry they can implement in their workplace, then that’s exactly what I hope it achieves.”

Kris believes the initiative is especially important for regional Australia, as major industry events are often concentrated in capital cities.

“Everyone always has to go to the big cities for these expos, but the regions are what grow our country,” she said.

Her vision is to bring businesses, organisations and community groups together, encouraging collaboration, knowledge-sharing and a stronger culture of workplace safety.

“If I can help one more business simplify their safety and make it easier for the people on the ground to work safely, then I’m very happy,” she said.

Looking back, Kris says the incident that once threatened to derail her life ultimately became the catalyst for everything that followed.

“I’m actually grateful that I had that incident, because if it hadn’t happened, I wouldn’t be where I am now, and this expo may never have existed.”

The Regional Safety Expo Australia will bring industry leaders and the community together in a first-of-its-kind event for regional Queensland. Held in Rockhampton on 6 August 2026, the expo will focus on strengthening workplace safety across the industries that power the region’s economy.

The expo is currently seeking a 2026 Headline Presenting Partner. For more information or sponsorship opportunities, visit www.regionalsafetyexpoaustralia.com.au

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Behind every successful creative agency are businesses willing to take a leap, back a vision, and commit to building something meaningful. Real Conversations puts the spotlight on those businesses sharing, in their own words, how strategic branding and marketing have shaped their growth.

On Point Eyecare is Mackay's newest indepent optometry clinic, founded by Joel Bialy (Optometrist) and Diana Lovadina Long.

From the outset, the vision extended beyond clinical care, placing equal importance on creating a considered, welcoming patient experience.

Branding and marketing were treated as foundational, not an afterthought. Partnering with redhotblue resulted in a distinctive logo, a bespoke campaign and a clear, confident market presence helping this start-up business achieve strong visibility from day one. Here is what Joel & Diana had to say:

1. As a start-up, why was it important to invest in a professional creative agency to develop your logo?

As a new independent optometry clinic in Mackay, we knew our logo and branding would be one of the first things people noticed about On Point Eyecare. We wanted it to feel memorable, professional and true to the kind of experience we’re creating for our patients.

We know the ins and outs of Optometry, but branding and design are a different skill set. Working with Redhotblue helped bring our vision to life, creating something that felt right from the start.

2. How would you describe the marketing campaign redhotblue created for you?

Eye-catching, pun intended.

We wanted a campaign that would introduce On Point Eyecare to the Mackay community, but also share the story behind what we’re building. It really captures the heart of our clinic, personalised genuine care, in a fun, fresh and memorable way.

Honestly, they came up with something even more creative and unique than we expected. We’re really excited to share it with the Mackay community over the coming months.

3.  Many believe DIY options are a cost-effective approach to their marketing - having invested in a professional approach, what are your thoughts around this?

Having tried both, we’ve really seen the value of working with professionals.

DIY can seem cheaper at first, but it often costs more in time, stress and overlooked details. There are so many moving parts in building a strong brand, from the message to the visuals to making everything work well together.

For us, working with a professional team has been well worth it. It’s taken a lot of pressure off and helped us create something much stronger than we could have on our own.

4. How important was it to work with a team that truly understood you?

This has been one of the most valuable parts of our experience.

The team at Redhotblue took the time to get to know us, what we care about and what we wanted On Point Eyecare to stand for. It feels like they are on this journey with us, sharing our excitement as we create something meaningful for the Mackay community,

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The Maltese Corner Fundraising Group Inc has been working since June 2021 to bring an important piece of Mackay’s migrant history to life, with plans to install three bronze statues at the corner of Wood and Victoria Streets.

The project honours the legacy of Maltese migrant men who began gathering at the site in the late 1950s, forming a long-standing meeting place built on resilience, mateship and shared ambition.

Many of these men arrived in the region with limited financial means, but strong family values, frugal habits and a willingness to work hard in the cane fields. With little or no collateral to secure loans, they relied on each other to build a future.

As earlier migrants became established, they supported new arrivals by pooling their resources and negotiating with the local bank to help others gain a foothold. Over time, the corner became more than a meeting place. It became a hub of opportunity, where conversations often centred around farming, land ownership and interest rates.

The gatherings continued for more than 50 years and remained a regular social connection as the men grew older, while still reflecting the same spirit of support and community.

Despite having little formal education, many demonstrated remarkable numerical skill, particularly in calculating interest rates, highlighting their adaptability and determination.

To honour their contribution, three life sized bronze statues were commissioned in 2021, created by local sculptor Kay Paton. The sculptures are now complete and ready for installation.

The official unveiling will take place at Maltese Corner at 2pm on Saturday 18 April, followed by refreshments at St Patrick’s Hall.

Contributed with thanks to Carmel Baretta.

1-  The statues will celebrate the gatherings of Maltese immigrants as they built lives in Mackay. Photo sourced: Facebook

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