Mackay residents are being encouraged to put their hand up to help shape the future of the Bruce Highway, with Expressions of Interest now open for regional representatives to join the Bruce Highway Advisory Council. The State Government has opened applications for the next round of regional representatives, including one position for the Mackay Whitsunday region, as part of its commitment to improving safety, reliability and long-term planning along Queensland’s major north–south transport corridor. The Bruce Highway Advisory Council brings together regional representatives and industry experts to help inform priorities for investment and upgrades, including the $9 billion Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program and the development of a statewide Fatigue Management Strategy. Chaired by the Minister for Transport and Main Roads, the Council includes stakeholders from Pine River to Far North Queensland and plays a key role in identifying local issues and directing where funding should be prioritised. The six regional representatives will join five peak industry bodies on the Council, including the Royal Automobile Club of Queensland, Queensland Trucking Association, Queensland Farmers' Federation, Queensland Tourism Industry Council and the Local Government Association of Queensland. Regional representatives are appointed on a voluntary basis for a 12-month term and may reapply if they wish to continue. The government said the process ensured a diverse mix of local experience and industry expertise was brought to the table. Expressions of Interest are open for representatives from six regions, including Far North Queensland, North Queensland, Mackay Whitsunday, Fitzroy, Wide Bay Burnett and North Coast. Applications for the Bruce Highway Advisory Council close on the 23rd of January.
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Mackay To Become Specialist Cancer Service Hub The Queensland Government has confirmed major progress on its fully funded Hospital Rescue Plan, unveiling clear timelines for hospital upgrades and new facilities across the state — with Mackay set to benefit as part of a strengthened regional health network. The plan has reached a significant milestone, with masterplans finalised for key hospital projects including Townsville University Hospital, Toowoomba Hospital, Coomera Hospital, Redcliffe Hospital and Bundaberg Hospital, alongside confirmed planning details for major upgrades at hospitals across Queensland. The Government said the plan was introduced after inheriting what it described as a failed and under-funded health infrastructure program, which resulted in major delays, missing services and $7 billion in cost blowouts. Under the Hospital Rescue Plan, the government is delivering a coordinated and fully costed approach to hospital construction and upgrades, aimed at restoring health services and delivering urgently needed hospital beds across Queensland. While Mackay is not listed for a major hospital expansion under the current tranche of projects, the region is expected to benefit directly through the Queensland Cancer Plan, which will establish Mackay as one of several specialist cancer service hubs across the state. The network will support regional hospitals and improve access to cancer care for communities outside Brisbane. As part of the statewide plan, specialist cancer hubs will be established in Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Wide Bay, Darling Downs, Brisbane and the Gold Coast, helping reduce the need for patients to travel long distances for treatment. Across Queensland, the Hospital Rescue Plan will deliver at least 2,600 additional hospital beds through new hospitals, expansions and upgrades, representing the largest hospital infrastructure investment in the state’s history. Major hospital projects are already moving forward, including expansions at Townsville University Hospital, which will deliver at least 165 new beds by 2028, and Bundaberg Hospital, which is set to receive more than 200 new beds along with an expanded emergency department and improved maternity services by 2031. Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls said the government was focused on delivering hospital beds and services when Queenslanders need them most. "Our fully-funded Hospital Rescue Plan is delivering new and expanded hospitals, 2,600 new hospital beds and health services when Queenslanders need them most," Minister Nicholls said. "After Labor’s decade of decline that left the system in crisis and without a credible path to building the hospital beds needed, Queenslanders are starting to see the results of getting our hospital build back on track with masterplans, designs and construction moving forward. "We’ve put to bed the poor planning, delays and cost blowouts we inherited and we’re now delivering the hospital beds Queensland needs now and into the future." Queensland Health Implementation Lead Sam Sangster said extensive planning was underway to ensure hospital projects met the needs of local communities across the state. “These masterplans mark an exciting first step in the process where Queenslanders will begin to see work intensifying on sites across the state,” Mr Sangster said. “It’s important to take the time to properly plan these major projects to ensure we leave a lasting legacy through sustainable infrastructure that caters for staff, clinicians, patients and their families.” The Queensland Government said the Hospital Rescue Plan marked a turning point for health infrastructure delivery, providing certainty for communities like Mackay through improved access to specialist services and a stronger statewide hospital network.
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In celebration of 20 years, Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank has introduced an additional higher education scholarship as part of its Community Engagement Program, allowing more students to receive a share of $39,000. For eligible degrees and apprenticeships at CQUniversity in 2026, the program includes three $9000 scholarships for undergraduate degrees and two $6000 scholarships for apprenticeships, providing not only financial assistance but also opportunities for professional development and growth. Community Bank Sarina Board Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich highlighted Community Bank Sarina’s commitment to supporting local talent, describing the scholarships as “an ongoing investment in the personal growth and skills development of young people in our region, marking two decades of community impact." “Scholarships show students that their community is behind them, allowing them to stay close to family, friends and support networks while pursuing their studies and careers,” Ms Franettovich said. “This initiative creates opportunities for networking, mentoring and connection with local businesses - key elements in building a strong foundation for their future.” Higher education scholarships are available for a range of fields for those commencing their studies in 2026, including accounting, agriculture/agribusiness, business, digital media, environmental science, health, information technology, law, nursing, science and teaching. In addition, scholarships are offered for first-year apprentices in automotive engineering and technology, building and construction, electrical, manufacturing engineering and technology, hairdressing, horticulture, hospitality and mechanical trades. 2026 Community Bank Sarina CQUniversity Scholarship applications close 28 February. To find out more information and request an application pack, email executive@sarinacommunity.com.au.
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It’s the most wonderful time of the year! There are lights on Christmas trees, topped with bright stars. Everything is merry and bright. Have you ever noticed that there is a definite theme of “Light” at Christmas time? But here is the catch; It is at night that the lights are on and shinning in all their glory. About 700 years before Jesus Christ was born the prophet Isaiah wrote about him; For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah also said; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned. And here is my point; The darkness! Christmas is a joyful time, but we realize that there are people for whom Christmas is a time of great sadness because things are not the way that they should be. The message of Christmas is most authentically for the people living, not just in darkness, but in deep darkness. That might be YOU this Christmas. However, into that darkness, Christ wants to enter and transform it. God loves you and waits for permission to be born in your life and for you to experience his magnificent transformative light.
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Calling all students and teachers! You’re encouraged to attend an inspiring film night for just $5 per student!
On Friday, September 13th, at 7:30pm, the CQ University Conservatorium of Music will host a screening of Divertimento. This French drama, with English subtitles, tells the remarkable story of how classical symphonic music is everything for 17-year-old Zahia Ziouani and her twin sister, Fettouma.
Nevertheless, living in underprivileged Parisian suburbs in 1995 with their Algerian background, they struggle arduously to approach their dreams – becoming an orchestra conductor and a cellist. Driven by determination, passion, and courage, they create their own orchestra, Divertimento. It will be a game-changer. DIVERTIMENTO is inspired by the life of Zahia Ziouani, one of the few worldwide renowned female conductors.
Students are invited to immerse themselves in this powerful story of music, perseverance and breaking barriers.
Tickets are available for $5 through trybooking.com
It’s a story about David Bowie, David Boon and David Fisher. In truth, the least-famous of those Davids was a mere observer and is now telling a story that’s a reminder that in real estate, and life, you can’t rest until the job is done.
When I was 15, I was picked as the youngster in an ACT representative team to play in an Under 19 Australasian cricket competition in Christchurch, New Zealand.
There were quite a few emerging stars there that year, none of whom were from Canberra. Cricket fans among you will recognise the names of Queenslanders Carl Rackemann and Greg Ritchie and the Tasmanian, David Boon.
Even at the Under 19 level, those three players had already emerged as talented cricketers who had been earmarked for future success on the national stage.
But this story is about the day we came up against Tasmania. We boys from Canberra had heard of David Boon, who at that stage in his career was already in the Tasmania men’s squad and was tipped as a future opening batsman for Australia.
We knew we had no chance if Boonie got “his eye in”.
Tasmania batted first, with Boonie opening the batting, and in the surprise of tournament we got him out for just four runs. Tasmania ended up getting a pretty average score and we felt at least we were in a position not to get absolutely smashed.
Our innings went pretty well but we were still chasing 20 or 30 runs when the 9th wicket fell and our last two batsmen were in. (They weren’t called “batters” in those politically incorrect days.)
But the runs kept ticking over … 15 runs to go, nine to go and then just four runs to win at the change of over.
That’s when David Bowie came into it. While the change of over was happening and with victory in sight, our two batsmen came together in the middle of the pitch.
Instead of chatting about strategy, remaining focused and keeping their heads, one of our batsmen started singing the David Bowie song, Heroes, to the other batsman.
“Oh, we can beat them, for ever and ever. Then we could be heroes, just for one day.”
Apparently it was an excellent rendition of the recent Bowie hit but it wasn’t included in the “what to do” section of the cricket textbook for when the last two batsmen are chasing four runs to win.
First ball of the next over and the Bowie fan was bowled, middle stump. All out. Game over. Later that evening the other batsman told us about the Heroes rendition in the middle of the pitch.
The sporting lesson of not counting your chickens before they hatch was pretty obvious. But seeing the job through is also a big part of selling real estate.
It’s great to get a good offer on a property but the job is not done at that stage. You still have to get the deal done, contract signed and then manage the period up to settlement.
There’s a building and pest clause and finance approval to get through before the property is actually sold.
Doing high-fives when a property goes under contract is premature. There is still work to do, potential issues to manage and a deal to be kept together.
Sometimes contracts sail through with no issues but often the building and pest report brings up issues that can potentially crash a contract.
The agent needs to be in contact with the buyer, understand any concerns, communicate everything to the seller and be the calm intermediary who hopefully keeps the deal together.
When the contract goes unconditional it’s time for another Bowie classic, Let’s Dance.
Founder of one of the community's newest markets, 'Trash & Treasure,' and owner of Healthy Clean & Green, Wendy Steindl, has just been recognised for her honourable environmental conservation efforts.
Last Thursday on August 29, she won the Mackay Chamber of Commerce Best in Business Award for the 2024 "It’s Not Easy Being Green Environmental & Sustainability Award."
Reflecting on this milestone, Wendy shared that she was "mind blown and extremely chuffed" by the recognition.
“It was super nice to be nominated for the award, to know that my efforts are actually being seen and then to actually win was just so amazing,” Wendy remarked.
Healthy Clean & Green is an online shop and market stall business that focuses on encouraging people to make sustainable choices by replacing everyday items with reusable or home-compostable alternatives.
Beyond retail, a significant part of her work involves educating the community on why making sustainable choices is essential and how to implement these changes.
Wendy notes that many people are unaware of the environmental, health and financial damage caused by their everyday products, however, once they become aware, they often think switching to sustainable alternatives is too difficult, expensive or time-consuming. That’s why Wendy’s goal is to make the transition as easy as possible by sourcing better-choice products, offering delivery and pick-up options and keeping prices accessible.
This approach saves her customers both time and money, while also benefiting the planet.
In 2023, Wendy expanded Healthy Clean & Green by launching two markets under the business banners of Sweet Repeats and Trash & Treasure. These biannual markets focus solely on second-hand items, with Sweet Repeats dedicated to wardrobe items like clothes, shoes and accessories.
With a goal to promote a circular economy and reduce waste, these markets don’t contain single-use items like coffee cups and water bottles for purchase. Instead, attendees are encouraged to bring their own reusable items and waste stations are set up to separate compostable and recyclable materials.
Save your wallet and the planet some damage by marking your calendars for the upcoming Sweet Repeats Pre-Loved Clothing Market held on Sunday, September 15 from 8am-12pm at the CQ University Mackay City campus!
What: Sweet Repeats Pre-Loved Clothing Market
When: Sunday, September 15 8am-12pm
Where: CQ University Mackay City campus
Feeling stressed after a long Tuesday or Wednesday? Skip the hassle of cooking and head to The Dispensary, where their irresistible deals will turn your tough day into a delicious one!
Every Tuesday: Pasta Night
Pasta Night is your go-to on Tuesdays! For just $40, choose from a variety of creamy pasta dishes, complete with homemade bread and a glass of wine to top off the evening. Whether you're seeking rich flavours or a refined dining experience, The Dispensary is the place to be!
Every Wednesday: Hump Day Rump Day
Prefer a steak? On Wednesday nights, it's all about Hump Day Rump Day! From 3pm, enjoy a succulent 300g Black Angus Rump steak served with house-cut fries, a fresh Dispensary salad and a glass of house red or white wine, all for just $40. It's the ultimate midweek treat for steak lovers!
Whether you’re savouring the juicy Black Angus Rump on Hump Day or indulging in an al dente pasta on Pasta Night, The Dispensary offers the ideal setting to enjoy great food and cherished company.
These irresistible deals are perfect for a night out, so scrap your plans and enjoy exceptional service and delectable cuisine at one of Mackay’s favourite spots for relaxation and fine dining!
1 Rice Paper Rolls: Delight in light, refreshing rolls that burst with vibrant flavours and textures – the perfect choice for parties and gatherings!
2 Tempura Tofu: Crispy, golden-brown tofu, lightly crumbed in potato starch and fried to perfection, paired with a house-made sauce featuring soy, chili oil and crispy shallots.
3 Vietnamese Pork Hok - Tender and crispy pork hock served with delicious steamed rice, salad and home style sauce.
4 Crispy Pancake - Banh Xeo (Vietnamese pancake) - Rice flour, coconut and turmeric is perfectly blended to make a crispy pancake stuffed with bean shoots with a choice of pork, bbq chicken, tofu or mushrooms.
5 Spicy Special Fried Rice with BBQ Chicken: This spicy special fried rice is infused with lemongrass, ginger, kaffir lime leaves, and a sweet mix of tomato, mushroom, and corn, all complemented by juicy BBQ chicken.
For Takeaway orders or reservations call (07) 4881 0209 or visit https://flavoursofvietnam.info/ today!
As the festive season approaches, bookings at Laffos Bar & Pizzeria are coming in thicker and faster than a Tasmanian snowstorm!
With Christmas right around the corner, the jolly man in red will soon be making his appearance, and there’s no better place to celebrate than at Mackay’s legendary Bar & Pizzeria at Caneland Central.
Laffos, renowned for its famous pizzas and cold drinks by the river, offers the perfect setting for Christmas parties and festive gatherings. The spacious venue, with its charismatic atmosphere, is ideal for sharing ‘laffs’ and creating memorable moments with friends, family and colleagues.
Avoid the holiday rush and secure your spot at the town’s most vibrant dining spot by booking your Christmas party or function now!
Whether you're celebrating with a large group or a small gathering, Laffos ensures a festive celebration filled with good food, great company and a lively atmosphere that will leave everyone with laffable moments to share!
By dining at this exceptional venue, you’re not only enjoying delicious food and drinks, but you’re also supporting a local business that actively gives back to their cherished community.
Visit Laffos for all your seasonal celebrations and make your next dining experience one to remember!
Looking to kickstart your busy day on a high note? Ocean International offers an unparalleled early morning experience tailored for busy professionals and early risers!
With exceptional breakfast options and inviting dining areas designed for relaxation, it's the perfect spot to savour a revitalising meal before diving into your hectic schedule.
Picture yourself beginning your morning with a delightful selection of breakfast options, from sweet fluffy pancakes to a savory smashed avocado, all paired with expertly crafted coffee.
Nestled by the serene outdoor pool, Ocean International offers a calming escape from the day-to-day hustle and bustle, enhanced by the gentle ocean breeze.
With breakfast open daily from 6am to 11am, the venue features a rotating breaky menu with specials that offer both variety and exceptional value.
Whether you're grabbing a quick coffee or indulging in a relaxed breakfast either solo or with colleagues, Ocean International’s blend of high-quality food, attentive service and picturesque setting makes it a favourite destination for locals and visitors alike.
Elevate your morning routine and experience a breakfast that will put a spring in your step as you start your day on a high note at Ocean International!
Open 7 Days A Week!
Breakfast: 6:00am to 11:00am.
Lunch: 11:30am to 2:30pm.
Dinner: 5:00pm to 8:30pm.
Bar: Open all day!
As domestic and family violence statistics continue to increase, so does the support from organisations such as Broken Ballerina Inc, who remain persistent in their mission to become a living hope for those most vulnerable in the region.
Local QPS domestic and family violence representative, Tamara Cook spoke on the rising issue and said that community charities such as Broken ballerina are making the changes that are needed to help women and children at risk of domestic violence.
Constable Cook said, “Domestic Violence is no longer a behind closed doors issue, it’s a major social issue but we’ve all got a part to play, and police can no longer do it on our own.
“I encourage every one of us to stand up against domestic violence…we have a role to play in ending domestic violence, whether it’s speaking out when we see something is wrong, supporting victims and survivors or educating others about the signs of abuse.”
Broken Ballerina committee members agreed and emphasised that an influx of women and children within the region are crying out for support, and that “Broken Ballerina is one of the only organisations helping these victims out.”
A spokesperson from the committee said, “We support vulnerable women and children within the region as a small agency and our income is solely just fundraising and donations.
“We don’t get grants or funding from the government so any businesses or agencies that can jump on board and support us is greatly appreciated.”
To shed light on this troubling issue, Broken Ballerinas highly anticipated Annual Charity Ball fundraiser is just around the corner and is set for the 21st of September at the Mackay Turf Club, from 5pm.
Tickets are $160/person or $1500 for a table of 10 and include a drink on arrival as well as a delicious 2 course alt drop of entrees and mains…plus, surprise desserts, raffles, auctions and an epic night of fun to be had where attendees can dance the night away to the Lady Gaga & Pink Tribute show!
“We want this ball to be a fun night out so bring your friends along and get ready for some great raffle prizes and dance the night away to the live tribute performance from Lady Gaga and P!nk!”
Come and enjoy a fun evening whilst raising crucial funds to help local DV Victims in the region!
Fusion128 lives up to its name by offering a culinary experience that is truly fusion by both name and nature. This vibrant restaurant brings together a diverse array of flavours from around the globe, seamlessly blending Asian and French influences with the unique taste of Australian bush herbs. Each dish on the menu is a celebration of cultural diversity, yet unified by a common theme: they are all hearty, delicious, and crafted with genuine care.
The chefs at Fusion128 take pride in creating meals that satisfy the soul as much as the stomach. Among the popular favourites are the succulent pork ribs with vegetables, the perfectly cooked sirloin steak with king prawns, the rich and tender duck, and the aromatic Thai chicken curry. Whether you're enjoying these crowd-pleasers or exploring other options, you can be sure that every bite has been thoughtfully prepared.
Despite the sophisticated fusion of flavours, Fusion128 maintains a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant’s friendly staff and inviting ambience make it the perfect place to enjoy a meal that’s as comforting as it is creative. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the experience at Fusion128 is bound to leave you feeling satisfied and eager to return for more of their filling, flavourful dishes, all made with love.
With World Suicide Awareness Day fast approaching, Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network has been raising awareness with a variety of initiatives right across the region.
From the recent Memorial Service and plaque unveiling held in Airlie Beach last week to the sunflower sale at Stackelroth Farm where over $500 was raised for the cause.
Starting a conversation about suicide awareness is considered the most effective way to normalise such a stigmatised issue and encourage those living with mental health issues to connect with the community.
Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network volunteer Megan Mattingley and Belinda Williams from Stackelroth Farm sold sunflowers to raise awareness for suicide prevention over the weekend. Photo supplied
Many members of the community called into Stackelroth Farms in Bowen on the weekend to purchase a bunch of bright yellow sunflowers to show their support for suicide prevention.
At initiative of Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN) the event was hosted by volunteer Megan Mattingley and made possible through the kindness of Belinda Williams and Michelle O’Regan from Stackelroth Farms.
A total of $250 worth of sunflowers was donated to WSPN and a further $500 was raised for the community organisation, but Michelle O’Regan said the outcome was worth more than money.
“It was so much more than the donation of money and flowers,” she said.
“Starting a conversation was the most important part of the day for us. It was great to meet so many people and thank you to everyone who volunteered their time.”
There are several other suicide prevention events taking place this week, turn to page 4 to see which one you could attend.
Andrew Willcox Federal Member For Dawson with young WSPN volunteer Jordyn and Belinda Williams from Stackelroth Farm. Photo supplied
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Hi Everyone,
Thank you so much for all the well-wishes and congratulations following my wedding.
I really appreciated the phone calls, text messages and personal encounters that have all made my husband and I feel super special over the last few weeks.
You’ll be pleased to know, it was the most spectacular day and the weather was perfect . . . thankfully!
A few people have been asking me to share photos so here is one for you!
In other news, it’s the much-anticipated Whitsundays Writers Festival this weekend and if you haven’t got a ticket yet, make sure you check out the website and book into an event.
The Festival is not just for writers; it’s for lovers of books and culture, for thinkers and readers – people who like a heart-warming community event crafted with passion and delivered with heart.
I am on the Whitsundays Writers Festival committee which has spent over a year planning the event - well done to the entire committee and thank you in advance to all the volunteers who will undoubtedly be running around all weekend.
There are so many fantastic speakers attending, including 2023 Miles Franklin Literary Award Winner, Shankari Chandran, international crime writer Garry Disher and award-winning author of The Slap, Christos Tsiolkas.
You’ll be pleased to know my own public speaking venture also continues as I deliver one of my own poems alongside my beautiful mum at the Poetry Karaoke event on Friday night.
Then, on Sunday I will share my story of cancer survival and the book I have written about the journey.
For the full festival itinerary turn to page 23.
There is so much to enjoy at this years’ Whitsundays Writers Festival, if you’ve been thinking about coming for a while, you’ve still got time!
I promise you will receive a warm welcome and have a rewarding experience.
Hope to see you there!
Rach
Quote Of The Week: “Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one’s courage” Anais Nin
Even here in the Whitsundays with its diverse wildlife, it’s not every day a wild echidna comes crawling across your driveway, but for local Ruby Honey Gorlick, that is exactly what happened.
When Ruby arrived home last week, she saw the echidna crawling across her driveway and initially approached it because she was curious. When she got closer, however, she noticed it had ticks embedded into its skin.
“I noticed it had lots of ticks on it, which I know can hurt them and potentially kill them,” explained Ruby.
“So, I ran back to my car, grabbed my makeup bag, got my eyebrow tweezers and removed the ticks!”
Ruby has prior experience with removing ticks from animals as she has removed ticks from her dogs in the past.
Backed by this knowledge and coming from a family that often stop to help injured animals on the roadside, Ruby’s first instinct was to carefully remove the ticks and help the animal that was in distress.
Ruby says she loves animals and would help any creature if it was experiencing a life-threatening situation. She added that it is important to help animals because they can’t always do it themselves and need assistance.
Ruby counted six ticks on the echidna and after carefully removing all of them left the echidna continued on its way in good health.
The team at Tourism Whitsundays are elated this week, not only with the announcement of their new CEO, but also with Council increasing its annual funding from $750K to $1M this year.
The CEO position at Tourism Whitsundays has been efficiently overseen by interim CEO Aimee Cameron for the past few months following the surprise resignation of Rick Hamilton earlier this year.
The team is now excited to announce that highly experienced tourism leader, Tim Booth, has accepted the role and is due to start in November.
Tim will be moving to The Whitsundays from New South Wales in the coming weeks to lead the organisation's efforts in destination marketing, increasing visitation, enhancing visitor expenditure, and extending the length of stay in the region.
Tim joins Tourism Whitsundays with over 17 years of experience in tourism management and a remarkable track record of achievements.
He is the current CEO of Mudgee Region Tourism, which has won multiple State and National Tourism Awards during his tenure.
For the three years prior to being in Mudgee, Tim's efforts helped the Eurobodalla region emerge stronger following devastating bushfires.
Tim shared his excitement for the role and his commitment to the community.
“I am honoured to take on the role of CEO at Tourism Whitsundays and to work with such a passionate and dedicated team,” he said.
“My vision is to drive sustainable growth, enhance visitor engagement, and strengthen our relationships with partners and stakeholders.”
The newly announced CEO of Tourism Whitsundays, Tim Booth. Photo supplied
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There was a great turnout at Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network’s (WSPN) ‘Shine The Light’ event which took place at Fairy Tree Park on the Airlie Beach Foreshore last week.
WSPN has illuminated the two iconic fig trees on the Foreshore, hoping to raise awareness for World Suicide Prevention Day, to start conversations and encourage anyone affected by mental health stuggles to speak up and reach out for assistance.
As trees around Australia are being painted blue to raise awareness for mental health, here in Airlie Beach WSPN has placed two solar panelled lights shining blue light onto the fig trees. WSPN hope to have similar projects in Proserpine, Bowen and Collinsville as soon as possible.
WSPN President Matt Stokes said the lights illuminated onto the fig trees raise much-needed awareness.
“People need to know they're not alone - we all at some point go through it and those thoughts in our head that swirl usually get bigger when we are not talking to someone,” said Matt.
To help locals take a moment to sit and gather their thoughts, WSPN has repurposed the bench seat near the fig trees to create a place of contemplation. A plaque with the inspiring phrase – “We all have the power to light up the darkness and spread love and hope to those who require it” – has been placed near the location. It is hoped this space will become a safe and quiet place to think and also connect.
“You can scan the QR code on the plaque and a whole bunch of resources come up for that person, depending on what they're facing at that time,” said Matt.
“So, if you don't know where to go, we want everyone to know that this is the spot where you can make a link, and if you need to meet someone, it's a good safe place to do it.”
WSPN’s mission is to end the stigma about mental health and Matt says the worst thing to do is to say nothing.
“We all choose to say nothing and pretend it doesn't happen, whereas we all need to be encouraged to speak and talk to people,” said Matt
“If you are someone who's struggling to put your hand up and talk that's the thing we are trying to get broken down.
“Mental health is not exclusive to any age, demographic or person. You might be at the lowest of the low or the highest of the high, we're all very much exposed to mental health problems.”
Upcoming Events
Bowen Memorial Service
WHEN: Sunday 8 September at 8.30am
WHERE: Kelva Espresso & Health Food Bar – 33 Murroona Street
WHAT: An opportunity to reflect with a walk along the beach followed by casting of sunflowers, live music, stories of lived experiences and a message of hope,
World Suicide Prevention Day BBQ Breakfast
WHEN: Tuesday 10 September – 7am-10.30am
WHERE: Bowen Town Square Herbert Street
WHAT: Tea, coffee and conversations
World Suicide Prevention Day Memorial Service
WHEN: Tuesday 10th September
WHERE: Proserpine at Pioneer Park from 3pm
WHAT: Free sausage sizzle, food and conversations. Memorial Flower Ceremony at 5pm.
WSPN Committee - Matt Stokes, Mel Turner, Di Fleetwood and Rob Murphy
WSPN Committee and Councillor Clay Bauman and Mayor Ry Collins
Scan this QR code for help via WSPN website
Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
Protecting children is a shared responsibility, and organisers Whitsunday Counselling & Support Inc. is dedicated to raising awareness about this crucial issue through their upcoming Community Colour Run.
This year's activities will include a colour fun run, bubble blowing, face painting, sausage sizzle, raffles & prizes, arts & crafts, games, races and a fantastic live music performance from Josiah.
Intensive Family Support Case Manager, Niamh Mulvihill, says she is excited for another year of the Fun Run, and says she looks forward to having Josiah come and play at the event:
“I suppose feedback from us for last year that we got from people that attended, is that the musician was a really big hit,” she said.
“I think having like a musician there keeps people interacting for the day, and it's a nice, chill opportunity for families to sit down. So, I'm looking forward to that, just to seeing kids, families and communities together.”
While the event is guaranteed to be a day of fun, organisers have also arranged for headspace, PCYC, and other support organisations to have stalls at the event to provide much-needed information and to raise awareness on the important topic of child protection.
The event takes place at Coral Sea Marina Gardens, where children will run around in an oval being splashed with paint until the paint runs out. Last year, comically the children took revenge throwing paint right back at the adults.
In an exciting twist, this year’s event will also have a foam cannon, due to feedback from last year stating that the paint actually becomes more luminous and sticks better with water.
The paint used at the event is Holi colour powder, a non-toxic biodegradable paint that is safe to use in the Coral Sea Marina Gardens.
Everyone is welcome to join the free event! Simply show up and register at Coral Sea Marina when you arrive.
The event is proudly sponsored by ARS Whitsundays, Paddy Shenanigans, Zonta, Shirt-front Solutions, All Whitsunday Electrical, Queensland Child Protection Week and Coral Sea Marina.
“We're very grateful this year to have loads of workplaces involved in sponsoring events,” Niamh added.
“It means we are able to get more free activities for the kids to join on the day.
“It is a good community effort this year.”
Join for a fun run and support a great cause!
What: Colour Run for Child Protection
Where: Coral Sea Marina Gardens
When: 9am on Saturday 7th September.
Registrations: FREE EVENT, just show up!
Community Fun Run!
Run for fun
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