What marine creature can have up to 21 arms, hundreds of venomous spines, a taste for coral, and the ability to appear in plague-like numbers?
If you guessed the Crown-of-thorns starfish, you’d be right!
Often referred to as COTS, Crown-of-thorns starfish are native to the Great Barrier Reef and are not an introduced species.
According to the Australian Institute of Marine Science, genetic studies have shown that there are at least four species of COTS. The species found on the Great Barrier Reef is currently referred to as Acanthaster cf. Solaris.
These large marine invertebrates feed on coral as adults, playing a significant role in the reef ecosystem. However, when their numbers surge, they can cause widespread damage.
COTS outbreaks are a major cause of reef-building coral loss on the Great Barrier Reef, with each starfish capable of consuming up to 10m² of hard coral per year. In addition, they have an incredibly fast reproductive rate, with a single female able to release millions of eggs annually.
Master Reef Guides in the Whitsundays often assist in controlling excess numbers at local tourism sites, while the COTS Control Program works throughout the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area to monitor and manage outbreaks.
The COTS Control Program uses a combination of data and modelling to prioritise reefs based on their ecological and economic value to the wider reef. So far, in the 2023–2024 period, the program has targeted 192 priority reefs, protected 11,640 hectares of reef habitat through targeted culling, and removed 50,227 Crown-of-thorns starfish.
The Crown-of-thorns starfish isn’t just a thorn in the reef’s side, it’s a royal pain for the coral. For updates on the work being done to manage them, head to the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority website:
Www2.gbrmpa.gov.au
Fast Fact: COTS have eyes in their arms.

Since the Whitsundays border the Great Barrier Reef, they are home to not only stunning coral formations but also a diverse array of marine life.

Among the many iconic species inhabiting this remarkable ecosystem, the dugong plays a crucial role in maintaining the reef's balance and is frequently spotted along the Airlie Beach boardwalk.

Historically known as “Sea Cows,” Dugongs are more closely related to elephants than whales and dolphins.  

The Great Barrier Reef is a UNESCO World Heritage site, largely due to the presence of dugongs. The Reef's significant dugong populations played a key role in earning its World Heritage status.

The Dugong is a culturally significant species for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples along the Reef and is the only marine mammal that exclusively feeds on plants.  

Dugongs play a vital role in maintaining the health of seagrass meadows by dispersing seeds and promoting germination. While grazing on seagrass, these gentle marine giants help spread seeds, supporting the growth and sustainability of these essential underwater ecosystems.

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Fast Fact: A dugong's age is estimated by counting tusk rings, like tree rings. They can live up to 70 years, accumulating many rings!

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Hi Everyone!
This week's Ruth 2 Reef is a bit shorter, as the paper is packed with exciting news, but rest assured the content is just as engaging!
If you have a local environmental story you'd love to see featured, feel free to email me at ruth@lifepublishinggroup.com.
Happy reading!
Ruth
"Our task must be to free ourselves ... by widening our circle of compassion to embrace all living creatures and the whole of nature and its beauty" —Albert Einstein.

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Harry, a charming 6-month-old male Cattle Dog cross, is searching for a loving forever home!
This sweet boy was surrendered through no fault of his own and is now hoping to find a family to shower with love.
Harry is incredibly affectionate and thrives on being close to his humans. He’s also a smart pup! He already knows how to play fetch, shake hands, is fully toilet trained, and enjoys his daily walks.
He gets along wonderfully with other dogs and absolutely adores his three foster fur friends. If you're looking for a loyal and loving companion, Harry could be the perfect addition to your family.
If you'd like to adopt Cosmo contact Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc:
• Phone: 0459 757 455
• Facebook: Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue
• Email: bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com

Rehoming fee: $650
Breed: Cattle X
Age: 6 months
Sex: Male
Other dogs: Yes
Fences: 6ft

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Can you adopt the gorgeous Harry?

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On Friday last week, Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP attended a community forum in Mackay hosted by the Queenslanders With Disability Network (QDN), sparking important conversations about NDIS reform and the ongoing Royal Commission at the federal level.

This marked the third such forum for Minister Camm, with others held in Cairns and Brisbane. These forums aim to listen to those living with disabilities, identify what is working, and highlight areas where support services may be lacking, particularly in regional and rural areas like Mackay and the Whitsundays.

“The Queensland government is partnering with the Qld disability network to consult across the state with those living with a disability along with service providers and other agencies to identify the priorities that we as a state government need to consider given the large reform being led by the federal government with the NDIS,” said Ms Camm.

“It was an opportunity to hear from local disability advocates who shared where there are gaps in services to support their needs.”

Ms Camm further noted that “These gaps become bigger in regional and rural settings like Mackay and the Whitsundays.”

In late 2024, the Queensland Disability Stakeholder Engagement and Co-Design Strategy was introduced to place people with disabilities at the forefront of the disability reform process through Co-design. The strategy involves establishing governance structures, creating a Disability Engagement and Co-Design Hub, organising community engagement activities, and supporting data collection to ensure that the needs of the disability community are effectively addressed.

Queenslanders With Disability Network (QDN) promotes inclusive communities and advocates for equal rights. Through initiatives like Peer Support Groups, QDeNgage, and the Emerging Leaders Program, QDN connects people with disabilities, encourages inclusive design, and nurtures the next generation of leaders.

The network addresses essential issues such as the NDIS, healthcare, accessible housing, transport, disaster planning, and employment, ensuring people with disabilities have a say in all decision-making processes.

Ms Camm stressed the power of community voices in shaping meaningful change.

“It’s important our communities voices are heard in these reforms.”

1: Queensland Disability Peak and Representative Network organisations met with Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm in November last year

Let’s be honest…house hunting in Mackay right now can feel challenging. It’s frustrating, competitive, and at times, downright overwhelming. You scroll through endless listings, rush to inspections, and still feel like you’re in a race with half the town. But don’t lose hope - securing that dream rental is possible with the right approach.

Prepare Your Application Early: Before inspecting properties, gather all necessary documents, including proof of income, identification, rental history, and references.

Make a Strong First Impression: Arrive on time for inspections and present yourself well. Being polite and showing genuine interest can leave a positive impression on property managers.

Have References Ready: Landlords value reliable tenants. Ensure your references, particularly from previous landlords or employers, are contactable and prepared to speak on your behalf.

Be Financially Prepared: Demonstrate your ability to pay rent consistently. Showing evidence of stable employment or savings can reassure landlords you’ll meet rental obligations.

**Be Flexible: **The more flexible you are with move-in dates, lease terms, or property features, the better your chances. Consider broadening your search to different suburbs or property types.

Act Quickly: Good properties are snapped up fast. Monitor online listings daily and register for alerts. If you find a suitable home, apply without delay.

Follow Up: After submitting your application, follow up with the property manager to express your interest and ensure your application is being considered.

Remember the three P’s: Be prepared, proactive, and professional!

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Business Break-In, Mount Pleasant

Police are investigating an unlawful entry into a business on Grandview Drive, Mount Pleasant, between 10am on February 17 and 6am on February 18.

Offenders allegedly smashed a glass panel to gain entry and searched the entire premises, causing damage during the process.

At this stage, nothing has been confirmed stolen, but inquiries remain ongoing.

Police are appealing to anyone with information, including CCTV footage or dashcam recordings, to come forward.

Witnesses to any suspicious activity in the area are urged to contact police immediately.

Quote reference number: QP2500294115.

PSPA Declaration Revoked After Beaconsfield Incident

Around 1:15pm last Tuesday, emergency services attended a Pandanus Street address in response to a mental health-related incident involving a man allegedly making threats with a knife.

An exclusion zone was established under The Public Safety Preservation Act (PSPA) declaration, covering Pandanus Street, Nandina Street, and Shiral Drive, to ensure public safety.

Residents within the zone were advised to remain indoors, while others were asked to avoid the area.

The situation was safely resolved, with no further risk to the public.

Authorities have since cleared the scene, and normal activity has resumed.

The Public Safety Preservation Act (PSPA) declaration was swiftly revoked not long after.

Police thank the community for their cooperation.

South Mackay Man Arrested For Drink Driving After Erakala Crash

A 20-year-old South Mackay man has been arrested and charged following an alleged traffic crash on Sugarshed Road in Erakala on the evening of February 11. The incident occurred around 8:15pm between Coakley Court and Sunset Drive, and was reported to police.

When officers arrived at the scene, they discovered a Nissan Navara utility that had crashed into a ditch beside the road. The driver, a 20-year-old man, approached police and identified himself as the person behind the wheel at the time of the crash.

He was then subjected to a roadside breath test, which allegedly returned a positive reading.

The driver was detained for further analysis and transported to the Mackay police station. Following a more thorough breath test, the man’s breath alcohol concentration was alleged to be .163%, significantly over the legal limit.

As a result, the driver was arrested and charged with driving under the influence of liquor and driving without due care and attention. He is scheduled to appear in the Mackay Magistrates Court on February 26 to face the charges.

The matter is being referenced under QP2500253501.

Photo source: QPS Media

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Member for Mirani, Glen Kelly, has wholeheartedly endorsed the Crisafulli Government’s announcement of a substantial $100 million funding increase for elective surgeries.

This investment will result in the provision of an additional 10,000 essential procedures by the end of June, significantly alleviating pressure on the Queensland healthcare system and improving access to timely treatments for patients across the state.

It comes as a significant relief to Mirani residents, who have long faced the challenge of having no local options for elective surgery.

“This announcement is incredibly important for the people of Mirani,” Mr Kelly said.

“Too many residents in my electorate, and across the state, have been left waiting for surgeries that could significantly improve their quality of life.

“When individuals require surgery to improve their mobility, the process becomes even more challenging if they must repeatedly travel for assessments to confirm their continued need for the procedure.

“People in Mirani are already at a disadvantage when it comes to accessing health services, and the blowout in elective surgery wait times under the previous Labor government has only made things worse.

“Many people have been left living in discomfort, unable to get the surgeries they need.

“The LNP is taking real action to fix the health crisis Labor has left behind.”

The $100 million funding boost will be directed to Surgery Connect, which leverages private sector capacity to provide planned elective surgeries through private hospitals.

This initiative will help deliver crucial procedures faster, including cataract surgery, tonsil and

adenoid removal, and knee replacements.

Caption: Glen Kelly has welcomed the $100 million funding boost for elective surgeries, which will provide 10,000 additional procedures by June, easing access for Mirani residents and the wider community. Photo supplied

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A mother’s stressful afternoon at Walkerston Chemist turned into a moment of unexpected kindness, thanks to a young man named Rohan.

"This isn't baby related - more a feel-good story," she shared to a local mums and bubs Facebook page.

She had been ready to pay at the counter when she realised her partner had locked their card after recently being scammed. Unable to reach him or her parents to transfer money, panic set in.

"I had my sick baby in my arms as well…I was so bloody stressed out even using the chemist phone to see if they would answer."

Soon after, a young man approached the counter and saved the day. He had been standing nearby, quietly observing the mother’s distress as she struggled to pay for her items.

"This young man came over to me asking how much it was and then proceeded to pay for my medication.”

The mother stood in shock, momentarily speechless at the selfless gesture.

“I was in shock.

“The most sweetest young man…who didn't have to do that at all.

“He sure did make my week and definitely has brought a huge smile to my face.”

She wished to find him and return the favour, believing good karma would come his way.

As she reflected on the moment, she felt a deep sense of gratitude and wanted to find him to say thank you properly.

“His name is Rohan… if this is your son, he is amazing.”

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Mackay Regional Council has been rocked by the sudden resignation of CEO Scott Owen, with his departure effective immediately. After leading a major organisational transformation since 2022, Owen’s exit marks the end of a bold era of change. Mayor Greg Williamson praised his leadership and assured residents that council operations will remain steady. With recruitment for a new CEO now underway, Executive Officer David McKendry steps into the Acting CEO role. Questions begin to arise, with residents wondering what led to Owen’s departure? And what’s next for our council?

The news was confirmed following a special council meeting held on Monday, February 17, where Mayor Greg Williamson was granted the authority to formally accept Mr Owen’s resignation.

Mr Owen's decision brings to a close more than two and a half years at the helm, having led the organisation since November 2022 through a period of significant change and modernisation.

Mayor Williamson paid tribute to Mr Owen's impact, praising his leadership and drive for innovation.

“Scott joined council in November 2022 and since then has driven major transformational change," Mr Williamson said.

“He delivered a major organisational restructure aimed at cutting red tape, achieving efficiencies and improving the delivery of services to our community.

“He leaves council with a major focus on continuous improvement, innovation and striving to do business better, faster and more efficient.”

Mayor Williamson expressed gratitude on behalf of the council for Mr Owen’s leadership and hard work over the past two years, extending best wishes for his future endeavours.

“We thank Scott for his hard work over the past two years and wish him well with his future endeavours.”

With Mr Owen’s resignation effective immediately, Mayor Williamson assured residents it remains business as usual at council.

“Council will begin recruiting for a new CEO immediately.

“In the interim, Executive Officer David McKendry is Acting CEO," he said.

“We have a strong ELT and senior leadership team, as well as a dedicated workforce and councillors working hard for the community they live in.”

Mr Owen described his tenure as CEO as a privilege, expressing pride in the achievements made alongside the council team.

“I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together and have no doubt that council will continue on the journey that is now well under way,’’ he said.

“I wish all staff the greatest of success.”

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David McKendry steps in as acting CEO while Mackay Regional Council begins search for new CEO.

Caption: In April last year, the newly elected Mackay Regional Council was officially sworn in, with Mayor Greg Williamson and 10 councillors taking the oath administered by former CEO, Scott Owen. Photo source: Mackay Regional Council

2: Executive Officer David McKendry steps into the Acting CEO role

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Let’s talk personal branding. In my (very humble) opinion, it’s not about shouting “Look at me!” from the rooftops or being enslaved by socials. It’s about making thoughtful, strategic moves that highlight what makes you you – and using that to naturally attract the right people. Here’s how you can do it, without compromising who you are, or treating the world like a stage (unless you’re into that!).

Start with your story (and keep it real)

Your personal brand begins with your story. It’s about what you’ve learned, how you’ve grown and why you love doing what it is that you do. Don’t overthink it – share the moments that have shaped you. Be authentic. People are more likely to connect with a genuine story than a curated persona. Keep it real, and they’ll keep coming back.

Show up consistently, not aggressively

Building your brand isn’t about being everywhere all the time. It’s about showing up consistently where it matters most to your audience. Whether that’s on your website, a few well-chosen social platforms or (one of my faves) face-to-face at local events – just stay visible and make sure it feels aligned with your values. No need to be in everyone’s face – just be there, and have a good time doing it.

Authenticity over perfection (actually, everything over perfection)

Forget about trying to create the perfect brand. You’re not a robot (I’m assuming), so your brand shouldn’t be mechanical either. What people really connect with is your authenticity – ie how genuine you are. Share the good, the bad and the lessons you’ve learned along the way. I get caught in this with Wild Oats (our weekly newsletter) all the time – writing my intros more like a business diary than something that’s going to be seen by hundreds of people (oops…).

Celebrate progress, not just success

Your personal brand should be an ongoing reflection of where you’re at in your journey – not a highlight reel. Celebrate your wins, but don’t shy away from talking about the setbacks or challenges you’ve overcome. It’s these moments that give depth and meaning to your brand, and they help people see the full picture. Plus – they’re often where the biggest learnings come from, for you and others.

Keep on rollin’

Your brand isn’t set in stone. As you progress and develop through your career or business or whatnot, so will your brand. Stay open to new ideas, and be willing to adjust your messaging as needed. A personal brand that evolves is one that stays relevant, sustainable and connected to your audience – and most importantly, to you.

Like I said, personal branding isn’t about pushing yourself onto others. It’s about making sure the world sees the real you – the one who shows up, stays authentic and adds value in a way that feels natural. So take it slow, make intentional moves and let your brand grow at its own pace. You’ve got this!

Jade McAuley

Director at Rebel Nation

#marketingdigitaldesign

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The next wave of female leaders will be empowered to chart their own course through a new partnership between North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) and Regional Development Australia Greater Whitsunday (RDA GW).

The NQBP Women in Leadership program, co-ordinated by RDA GW, aims to help address the under-representation of women in leadership roles in regional areas.

NQBP Chief Executive Officer Brendan Webb said the government-owned port authority had sponsored $60,000 towards the program, which is about building a strong pipeline of female leaders.

“Thirty women from across the Mackay and Whitsunday region, including 25 community members and five NQBP employees, will be supported to grow their skills and confidence in leadership roles,” Mr Webb said.

“The ten-month program includes workshops, masterclasses, access to local and regional leadership mentors, and industry networking opportunities.”

NQBP’s General Manager People, Safety, Environment and Sustainability Carissa Mansfield highlighted the program as a key initiative supporting the organisation’s diversity and equity strategy.

“The NQBP Women in Leadership program is designed to empower our female colleagues with the skills, support, and confidence to become the leaders of tomorrow, while also fostering strong local and regional networks,” Ms Mansfield said.

“As a female leader, I know how valuable it is to have the right support and opportunities. It’s inspiring to see a program equipping women with the tools to step into leadership roles and make a lasting impact.”

RDA GW CEO Rob Cocco said the program not only benefits participants but strengthens organisations by fostering leadership succession and enhancing opportunities for women.

“By empowering the women in our workplaces, we are not only investing in their individual growth but also creating a stronger, more diverse leadership in the region,” Mr Cocco said.

“If you are an emerging or developing female leader looking to grow your skills, confidence, and networks, we encourage you to apply for the NQBP Women in Leadership program.”

The subsidised program costs $350 per participant, commences in March 2025 and completes in December 2025. Applications are now open, closing Wednesday 5 March.

To find out more and apply, visit www.rdagw.org.au/news/nqbp-women-in-leadership-program.

Caption: Proudly supporting the NQBP Women in Leadership Program: RDA GW CEO Rob Cocco, NQBP’s General Manager People, Safety, Environment and Sustainability Carissa Mansfield, RDA GW Project Manager Nic Willis and NQBP CEO Brendan Webb. Photo supplied

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Australia’s leading and emerging artists' book makers will once again vie for Artspace Mackay’s prestigious Libris Awards: The Australian Artists' Book Prize.

Held every two years, the Libris Awards bring together works by leading and emerging artists' book makers from across the country.

Entries for the Awards open on Tuesday, February 18, and will close on March 25. The exhibition will run from July 5 to September 14.

The Awards are a chance to celebrate the artform and build on the gallery’s significant artist book collection through the competition’s acquisitive prizes.

Mayor Greg Williamson said, in this ninth iteration of the Libris Awards, Artspace Mackay had made some format changes.

“This year, the Tertiary Artists Book Prize category will be an invitational award, with seven outstanding artists selected to vie for the $3000 prize,” Mayor Williamson said.

“The winning work will be acquired by Artspace for its collection. Acquisitive prizes like this provide a fantastic opportunity for emerging artists to have their works become a part of a regional or state collection.

Mayor Williamson said it was an honour to have renowned artists Marian Macken and Ana Estrada as judges for this year’s Libris Awards.

“Both Marian and Ana are previous Libris winners and it’s wonderful to have them back with their experience as artist book makers to judge,” Mayor Williamson said.

This year entrants will vie for four prizes in three categories:

• The Daly Bay National Artists Book Award (acquisitive) $10,000.

• Tertiary Artists Book Prize (Invitational award – acquisitive) $3000.

• The Daly Bay National Artists Book Award, Highly Commended (acquisitive) $5000.

• The Cathy Knezevic Regional Artists Book Award (acquisitive) $3000.

For more information on the 2025 Libris Awards visit www.artspacemackay.com.au/librisawards

Caption: 2022 Libris Awards winner Jessica Dorizac, left, receives her prize from Sharon Johnston (Daly Bay), for her work ‘Passages 1-5’. Photo supplied

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It has been a challenging time across our growing communities, with every region affected to various degrees by the recent rain event.

The Herbert region obviously bore the brunt of it with extensive flood damage, lengthy power outages, communication issues and prolonged supply issues.

In the Burdekin, we had floodwater through Invicta Mill at Giru twice in the space of one week, and the whole region was impacted by localised flooding, highway closures and access issues. Our Proserpine region had some local flooding and minor track damage while Plane Creek largely dodged a bullet.

As our Grower Marketing consultants live in the regions, they have been reaching out to our growers to check in on their general well-being as well as assessing crop status for this year’s harvest.

It’s too early to say what the impact will be on the 2025 crop. Suffice to say that we need a bit of clear weather to allow growers to get into fields to visually assess crop status – particularly in the Herbert.

A few days of sun will also allow us to do a detailed inspection of our Herbert rail network and get the job under way of assessing bridges and replacing ballast that was washed away by floodwater.

Our Grower Marketing team has also used this period of time to talk growers through the wash-up of pricing for the 2024 season.

Even with final deliveries and CCS being lower than estimates, there were very few hard washouts, which is a good result.

There is still a portion of pricing to be done for the tidy up of the 2024 season with growers hoping for a kick above $700/t to close out their orders. Growers appear to be targeting $650/t as the next level to fix some more 2025 Season GEI sugar exposure.

Interestingly, results from our survey of growers last year indicated that, among the things that keep them awake at night, sugar price volatility ranked number four while the weather came in at number seven.

A quick reminder for growers who may need a cash injection with the disruptions caused by the recent flooding. Our Pre-Season Payment allows for an advance of $5/t cane for all cane nominated to Wilmar.

Caption: Repairing ballast washouts will be a key focus for Wilmar's Herbert cane rail network in the coming months. Photo supplied

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Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank has pledged $20,000 to the Bendigo Bank North Queensland Flood Appeal, providing vital support to communities devastated by recent flooding.

This donation will support residents on their recovery journey, helping them rebuild homes, restore their livelihoods, and regain a sense of stability after the severe impact of floods.

The Bendigo Bank North Queensland Flood Appeal follows a community-led approach, directing all contributions to where they’re needed most, working with local partners in the affected areas.

Community Bank Sarina Board Chair Karen May said our region understands all too well the long-term impact of flooding and the devasting effects on peoples’ lives.

“The recovery process continues for months—sometimes years—after the water recedes. We want to ensure that affected communities have access to the support they need, both now and into the future.”

She emphasised the importance of standing by North Queensland communities in their time of need. “As a community focused bank, we believe in supporting not just our own backyard but our neighbours as well.”

"This donation is a testament to our long-standing commitment to supporting communities—both in Sarina and beyond. We encourage others to give to this important appeal and help our northern neighbours recover and rebuild."

Bendigo Bank customers affected by these weather events can also apply for a Natural Disaster Assistance package, providing relief on loan repayments, discounted interest rates and waived fees, where applicable.

To support flood-affected communities, donations can be made directly to the Bendigo Bank North Queensland Flood Appeal at: www.bendigobank.com.au/community/foundation/disaster-appeals/north-queensland-flood-appeal/

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