Early voting officially opens on Monday March 4, for voters wishing to escape the hectic polling booths on Saturday March 16.

Here are the locations to vote early in the region:

Cannonvale

Shop 15 of Whitsunday Shopping Centre

Proserpine

Proserpine Whitsunday Freemason Lodge

Collinsville

Collinsville Community Centre

Bowen

Bowen PCYC

All sites are open Monday March 4 to Friday March 15 (excluding weekends) from 9am to 5pm

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The upcoming Country Fest Queensland, a North Queensland country music festival due to be held in Bloomsbury later this month announced this week that headlining act, John Fogerty will no longer be playing at the festival.

Event organisers released a statement saying John Fogerty will “no longer be attending Country Fest QLD.”

“We are working hard on a revised line up and will have more information coming soon,” the official statement on the events Facebook explained.

However, the Credence Clearwater Rival star John Fogerty released an opposing statement.

“I was ready to celebrate with you all for my one and only show this year in Australia, when Country Fest Queensland blindsided me yesterday by cancelling my appearance,” John explained.

“It was posted that I would not be appearing due to unforeseen circumstances.

“Well, I can tell you, my friends, I was not the reason for the ‘unforeseen circumstances’,” John continued.

“I was ready to come down there and excited to celebrate getting my songs back with you all.”

A fan commented on Country Fest’s Facebook page speculating that the event organisers could not afford to have the star attend while others are still committed to the event without John.

“Was going to the event no matter who was playing,” one comment explained.

“Rain, John or shine, I’ll be there!” said another.  

The event still boasts other big names such as The Wolfe Brothers, Morgan Evans and Lee Kernaghan.

Country Fest QLD explains that for ticket holders wishing for a refund due to the non-appearance of John Fogerty, that Oztix will contact all ticket holder via email for refund options.

Country Fest QLD is scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, March 30 and 31, at Bloomsbury.

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John Fogerty has been removed from the line up of 2024 Country Fest QLD. Photo supplied

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A joint venture between Proserpine State High School and Whitsunday Shire Family Day Care (WFDC) has seen the creation of a new ‘The Whitsundays: Our Home, Your Adventures’ novel.

The idea came from the team of WFDC, as a way to celebrate the region, the community’s identity, and incorporate iconic landmarks in a children’s book.

“Our goal was to capture the unique charm of the region and involve the children in the process,” explained Amanda Brett, Coordinator with Whitsunday Shire Family Day Care.

“Collaborative efforts among Educators, children and students aimed to showcase not just physical landmarks but also the essence of the community. The grant facilitated the production of a high-quality book, serving as a keepsake for families and a source of community pride.”

Spanning over 18 months, from the initial concept to the point of publication and distribution, WFDC are now eager to spread the news of the project.

“The children at Whitsunday Shire Family Day Care are mostly under five and loved the project,” Kylie Smith, Coordinator with WFDC explained.

“They had a wonderful time learning about local animals and doing fun crafts with their Educators. Even though they didn't fully grasp the final product concept, their excitement peaked when they saw the book.

“Finding the animals they created in the book made them really excited. The project went from a learning experience to amazement for the children when they discovered their creations in the colourful pages.”

Year 12 student Alice Attwood worked closely with the students of WFDC.

“I think the book is a great idea and opportunity for the community to collaborate for kids to see different art textures and mediums. It will be great to show the book to our own children one day.”

Don McDermid, Principal of Proserpine State High School, is excited with the project.

“It has been such an incredible opportunity for our school,” he said. 

“Our students showed such excitement and enthusiasm through their work and appreciated the chance to demonstrate their artistic skill, interest in child care and ultimately their love of our Whitsunday Region,” he explained.

“It been an absolute privilege to work with Amanda and Kylie on the book release.”

The books are available for purchase for $20 each from the WFDC office, at 18B Chapman Street, Proserpine.

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Back: Teacher Bhrett Bell, students Isabella Grenci, Sienna Thomson, Amelia Brain, Arthina Straker, Lilly Tarver, Emily Vique, former Teacher Tia Attwood, student Sophie Whish, Whitsunday Shire Family Daycare staff Kylie Smith and Amanda Brett.

Front: Students Alice Attwood, Millie Groom, Lexi Di Benedetto, Ella Williams, and Flynn Squires.

Absent: Students Ellizay Brett, Gabby Beach, Demi Vardanega, Alessa Penglase, Preis Boileau, Courtney Beard, Anaiyah James-Hankin, Jahla Thompson, Belamy Poles, Dominick James-Johnson, Zanthia Brimble-Jacobi, Olivia Whibley, Giselle Tronc, Jordan Welsh, and Natalie Cooper. Photo supplied

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The Whitsunday Foodbank in Proserpine is welcoming a grant from the 2024 Ergon-Energex Community Fund.

The generous grant of $4,500 has already been allocated for the purchase of a new freezer for the not-for-profit venture, to allow community members to access frozen grocery items.

Chairman of the Board for Whitsunday Foodbank, Jeff Boyle, welcomes the gift.

“Our previous freezer has just died, and being able to replace it so quickly is great,” he explained.

“Our previous freezer was a classic chest freezer, which a lot of our customers overlooked.

“The new one is an upright, two-door freezer with glass panels, so that customers can see exactly what is in the freezer without having to rummage through a big chest freezer.

“It means they can see when we have steaks, or a chook, or meatballs in there without too much hassle.”

Expecting the delivery of the new freezer in the next few weeks, Jeff is eager to stock it full for the Foodbank customers.

“We see between 30 to 40 local residents shop at the Foodbank each week, and being able to better our offering is great.”

The items at the Foodbank are at greatly reduced prices, compared to main chain grocery stores, and are available for pension and healthcare card holders.

“And any families in need,” Jeff explained.

“The cost of the items covers the bare essentials of the shop, that being rent and electricity.

“This isn’t about profit but helping the community.”

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The official opening of the Whitsunday Foodbank Proserpine, with Member for Whitsundays Amanda Camm, Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox, and Chairman Jeff Boyle. Photo supplied

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Since she was three years old, Roze has passionately pursued her dream of becoming a fashion model and she finally realised this dream when she appeared on a billboard during New York Fashion Week recently.

Answering a callout by former locals Belle Le Chic, Roze’s mum Katrina put Roze forward as a model to showcase Belle Le Chic’s new collection, the Goddess Collection.

In the two-day shoot, Roze was sure that photographer, Alexis Turner, knew her good side, and posed perfectly, the hope of appearing on a New York Times Square Billboard present on her mind.

“We knew that some of the models would appear on the New York Times Square Billboard, and then we were sent the picture, and it was amazing,” explained Katrina.

“Roze squealed, she was so excited.”

Roze’s commitment to her modelling career started when she stumbled across modelling videos, and just a year later, Katrina enrolled her in Brooke Lee Modelling lessons to help her perfect her craft and expand her skills.

“She is obsessed with the entire process. She knows her poses, her angles. Roze loves playing with makeup and practicing her runway walk,” Katrina explained.

Along with the Times Square Billboard, the Belle Le Chic dress she was modelling was named after her, a gorgeous gown which now is proudly displayed in their family home.

“We’re all so proud of Roze. It all comes from her, and we’re happy she is doing something she loves.”

Living on a property, Katrina explained that Roze lives the best of both worlds.

“She does her modelling, with the makeup and the hair, but at home, she’s a bit of a tomboy. She rides her motorbike, catches crabs, and works with her brothers. She loves it all.”

Progressing her modelling career, Roze will make appearances at the Cairns Fashion Week runway, and the Mackay Wedding Expo, sure to model gowns beautifully and with perfect confidence.

  1. Roze modelling the Belle Le Chic Roze Gown. Photographer: Alexis Turner Photography

   2. Roze on the New York Times Square Bill Board. Photo supplied

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Whitsunday Regional Council has set a new precedent, overruling Botanica Estate’s governing body and body corporation recommendation, by approving an owner’s application for their property to be a short term accommodation listing.

Botanica Estate is a gated, residential community, with 48 residential lots.

Managed by Whitsunday Body Corp Management and the Botanica Body Corporate Committee (BCC), the committee opposed the application, on the grounds of personal safety, residential amenity and precedent.

“While a body corporate cannot enforce the council’s requirements, it can complain to council about the lack of compliance with the planning approval,” BCC’s official opposing statement detailed, in a letter submitted to Council.

“As Whitsunday Regional Council has local planning laws that are specific in terms of short-term occupancy rights, the Botanica Estate Body Corporate seeks to prohibit short-term letting through engaging the council to enforce its own planning laws.

Councillors Clay Bauman and Jan Clifford opposed this application.

“I believe that people have the right to enjoyment of their property, particularly in a gated community,” Cr Clifford explained.

“If we approve this, this will become another residential estate that is full of short term accommodation dwellings,” Cr Bauman said.

While Major Julie Hall explained her opinion on not supporting the application, citing that the Council’s proposed Local Law will need to further investigate such matters in the next Council term, however, in this case, it is not worth fighting when the Lot owners take Council to court.

“This will cost ratepayers money, fighting this in court,” Mayor Hall explained.

“Our current policy and planning do not allow us to select areas for these applications, so I suggest that the new Council look into establishing a short-term accommodation precinct, to better manage and decide applications.”

Two of the 48 lots in the Botanica Estate are already approved short term accommodation dwellings.

This application was approved by Council at their Ordinary Meeting on Wednesday, with a four against two vote.

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Three Proserpine youth have spoken their heart out, at the annual Proserpine Lions Youth of the Year competition.

The Lions Youth of the Year was created to enable and encourage student to take an interest in leadership, providing the opportunity to take an active and constructive role in their community.

The Youth of the Year Final includes one prepared speech, on the topic of their choosing, and two impromptu speeches.

The three youth at the Proserpine Youth of the Year embody community spirit and positive leadership.

Alice Pinni is a Year 12 student from Proserpine State High School, a current school captain and heavily involved in sports, arts, and culture, with aspirations of pursing a career in healthcare and dentistry.

Alice’s prepared speech was on the topic of ‘The Erosion of Empathy in the Digital Age’.

Hurley Diessel is a Year 12 student from Proserpine State High School, with commitments in committees at his school.

His passions include personal fitness and musical theatre and his prepared speech was on the topic of ‘Paying Attention to Attention’.

The third speaker was Mia Vloedmans, a Year 11 student from Proserpine State High School, whose passions include the Senior Leadership team, the Social and Cultural Committee, and Care Group representative.

Mia’s prepared speech was ‘Burden to Blessings’, speaking of her Type 1 Diabetes diagnosis.

“All three speakers were excellent,” explained Jane Bettridge, the Lions Youth of the Year Coordinator.

“These youth are truly inspiring.”

The first of the two impromptu topics were ‘Consider the recent phone ban in schools, and how has the school’s culture changed?’

“All speakers believed that the ban was positive,” Jane explained.

“They all felt that the school culture has positively changed, and more conversations were being had at break times.”
The second topic was ‘Do you agree or disagree with this statement: A sense of humour is essential?’

“They all believe that having a sense of humour is essential,” Jane explained.

In the tight competition, all the students spoke eloquently, and “The judges had their work cut out for them.”

Hurley Diessel was awarded the Public Speaking Award, while Mia Vloedmans was awarded the Overall Winner, and will represent Proserpine, next weekend, March 3, in Collinsville at Zones, going up against the youth winner of Whitsunday, Bowen, Ayr and Collinsville Lions.

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Mia, Alice, Hurley, Member for Whitsunday Ms Amanda Camm. Photo supplied

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Questions Of The Week:

1.

Who do you think is your biggest competitor? What do you admire about them and what qualities do you have that will ultimately make you better for the role?

2.

If you could throw your support behind a particular local community organisation what would it be and how would you support them?

3.

What’s your vision of the Whitsundays in 10 years? Tell us about the infrastructure, services and facilities you think are most important to the region and paint a picture of what you would like to see.

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Tony Price

Division 2 Candidate

 
1.

Clay Bauman delves deeply into council documents and reports. I excel in fostering constructive collaboration among fellow Councillors and Council Staff, earning their support and driving positive outcomes for the Whitsunday Coast. With two previous terms as a councillor and 45 years of local business experience, I bring invaluable communication and negotiation skills, region-wide connections and expertise to the table. 

2.

While I support all community-orientated organisations, my priority is to ensure that the Greater Airlie Beach Masterplan 2022 is fully funded which will help many community organisations in Division 2. As part of this plan, the completion of projects including Cannonvale Lakes Park, Cannonvale Fishing Jetty, and the Cultural & Civic Hub (art gallery, library, customer service and disaster resilience centre) will enable families to engage in low-cost recreation, fostering community bonds and healthy lifestyles amidst our region's natural beauty.

3.

In 10 years, I envision the Whitsundays with an Emergency Hospital and State High School on the Coast, improved road infrastructure, and upscale, medium-density dwellings for families, workers, and visitors. Vital aged care facilities and lifestyle communities will flourish alongside a world-class sporting complex which can host major events while benefiting local clubs and schools. Additionally, a thriving tourism industry with accessible island resorts will enrich the region, fostering sustainable growth and prosperity for residents to relish.

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John Finlay

Division 6 Candidate

1.

The qualities and attributes I have to undertake the role are my community values and involvement including economic development, my professional qualifications including Fellow of Certified Practising Accountants Australia and local government qualifications and my professional employment including owning and managing an accounting business in Bowen and the Whitsunday, former roles in Councils being Chief Executive Officer of Whitsunday and Bowen Councils and Director of Corporate and Financial Services. This combined experience will be important in the role as Councillor.

2:

The community spirit in our region is built upon the amazing not for profit community organisations. These organisations include churches, sporting clubs, social welfare and support services, the arts, and others and are all worthy of support depending on their needs. This support can be in the form of assistance with applications for grants, concessions with rates and charges, and working together for the betterment of the community.

3.

The vision for the Whitsunday Region is for the prosperous sustainability of the region in all areas of the community and economic and social development. The maintaining of current infrastructure and facilities and ensuring planning for future infrastructure for the growth of the region. Providing and encouraging economic development including small business, tourism development, major industry developments and supporting the social needs of the communities. Working together with the above will make for a prosperous vision for the region.

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David Paddon

Division 6 Candidate

1.

Defiantly apathy and lack of an economic plan for Bowen. Having now interviewed 100’s of residences they say candidates messaging is nonspecific, does not address “what will it do for me”.

I bring a career’s worth of experience in long-term planning and economic growth/achievements.

 Bowen is falling behind and if this continues, we can expect to see government serves and retail move to the southern end of the WCR. My solution is we need 200 more permanent long-term jobs.

2.

If successful, my focus will be on driving jobs growth and none better would the decades old plans to expand the Marina facilities in Bowen and work with the local sailing clubs and community groups to achieve a level of congruity for this transformative project

3.

 In 10 years from now the Whitsundays will double in population and therefor the WRC faces significant infrastructure projects, power, water, roads, telecommunications, hospitals etc and each of the major community centres will evolve in their own direction e.g. Airlie will continue as the region’s capital for tourism. Proserpine Evolves as the transport hub, with the airport, rail and major Highway, Agriculture will still be a major contributor to the town economy. Bowen Develop more industry, be the major marine repair facility, Mining and agriculture powerhouses.

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Clay Bauman

Division 2 Candidate

1.

My only competitor lives in Proserpine, and while I admire anybody who wishes to serve the community, ‘serve’ must be the key word. As a Cannonvale resident, with my deep understanding of our community's needs, coupled with a proven track record of navigating bureaucracy for real outcomes, my dedication to progress and ability to deliver results are what Division 2 needs. Voting Clay ensures a future where our community's voice is amplified and we move forward together, not backwards.

2.

While Council has a limited budget that mostly comes from ratepayers, there is huge amounts of money available from external grants. I feel if Council assists with preparing grant applications, rather than just dolling out a few dollars, our community organisations would blossom with a sound financial basis. Teaching and helping someone to fish, rather than giving them a fish, is my plan to support all our clubs, charities and groups that benefit so many, thanks mainly to tireless volunteers.

3.

My vision is for a better Council, lower rates and low-rise development. While my plan for the Cannonvale Civic Centre saves ratepayers millions, we must not forget less visible, yet critical infrastructure: roads, aging pipes, stormwater and networks for new residential developments. I'm already onto a sportspark plan, the challenge remains in extending services to the proposed Havengrand site. If 13 years ago Council had heeded professional advice to buy land closer to Cannonvale, we might already have the sportspark.

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Ry Collins

Mayoral Candidate

1.

I've been focused on my own race and what I can bring to the region but would think my biggest competitor is one who brings a wealth of current experience addressing our region's challenges and opportunities as well as deep commitment and roots into our community, qualities I greatly respect. I feel I offer a unique forward looking proposition, a fresh perspective, innovative ideas, and proven dedication to advocating for our region which sets me apart. I believe these attributes are crucial for addressing our community's needs.

2.

All our community groups are incredibly important to our region and sense of place. If I were to pick just one, it would be housing. I would support organisations such as Whitsunday Housing Company, to further address the critical housing and accommodation crisis facing our community. By advocating for policy changes, securing funding for affordable housing projects, and facilitating partnerships between government, the private sector, and non-profits, I think we can make an impact in increasing accessible housing and accommodation options for our community.

3.

I envision the Whitsundays as a leading region for the convergence of our traditional and future industries. A strong and growing economy known for embracing sustainability and community liveability where everyone still knows their neighbour. Key infrastructure investments in renewable energy, water security and digital connectivity will support our growth. Enhanced health, education, and transport services will ensure a high quality of life and help keep our kids here. I dream of a vibrant, resilient community where nature and progress coexist harmoniously.

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Richard Evans

Mayoral Candidate

1.

I respect all candidates' commitment to the election process, regardless of experience. Apathy among voters is our biggest competitor. Ratepayers seek change in council attitude and performance. If you want change, vote for it. My experience in politics and managing large organisations equips me to drive meaningful change from day one. There is no luxury of time to settle into the role. My expertise, policy positions, and action plans distinguish me and I’m on the record at www.richard4mayor.com

2.

Our community organisations make an incredibly valuable contribution, like the VMR where I volunteer. Yet, housing availability and affordability demand immediate prioritisation especially for the vulnerable – single parents, elderly, and victims of domestic violence. Proserpine’s Tiny Homes initiative shows promise and worthy of support, as do other pathways such as reviewing town planning regulations, public-private partnerships, and workforce villages. As mayor, I pledge to explore avenues to support Tiny Homes that align with our community's needs and aspirations.

3.

Navigating the complexities of the Whitsundays region requires multifaceted solutions. Restoring trust in local government is paramount. While projects matter, a cultural shift within council towards accountability is vital for effective management of rates and ratepayer satisfaction. I envision a Whitsundays characterised by heightened accountability for our mayor, councillors and council staff, instilling community pride with meaningful community interactions. In 2034 we will have a high performing, accountable, and respected council delivering more than just rates, roads and rubbish.

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Phil Batty

Mayoral Candidate

1.

I am sure each of the candidates have qualities to be admired but as I had never heard of Ry Collins or Richard Evans until the nominations for this election it would be disrespectful for me to judge and comment. I can say that I have the skills, the strength and the ability to take my passion for this entire region into the role of Mayor and truly make a positive impact to the lives of the residents both current and future generations.

2.

Choosing one would be like picking your favourite child. An example of one of the many organisations deserving of support would be the Whitsunday Housing Company who are working hard to alleviate one of the biggest problems right across the region. They seek to provide affordable, safe, secure and accessible long-term housing for people in need and those wishing to gain meaningful work but housing is inhibiting those opportunities. I would support them with expertise, properly funded and budgeted support.

3.

The big picture is a thriving, forward looking, environmentally and financially responsible, culturally aware, affordable, welcoming and still the best place in Australia to live and raise a family. That means starting now on the journey, planning for the schools, hospitals, roads and amenities that contribute to that lifestyle. We need to see an environment which is in better shape than it is today, we need to see agriculture and manufacturing grow to be the envy of Australia for its quality and leading edge practices.

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Peter Hood

Mayoral Candidate

1.

Residents of the Whitsundays; please go to https://www.facebook.com/100078511399893/posts/pfbid037o1k89zAt6DQBJUgKpqdKx6Yuu81frgmWAyYGKFxgncJj8edHmzfC6kZXaqQmCGql/ for my accurate answer. Or go to my Mayoral Facebook Page and see the Post 27.02.2024, “Search & Seek answers on matters for the Candidates.”

2.

As a result of Whitsunday Life’s (WL) publication on matters for me two editions ago, my accounting practice is now providing no-charge assistance to 471 Whitsundays Residents in their dealings with Centrelink and the Tax Office. Up from 117 prior to the WL article coming out. I now have the ammunition I need to “convince” Centrelink to get their Community Assistance Bus rolling to all the isolated communities in The Whitsundays and beyond. Because Centrelink cares; yea right; they do now!

3.

No Candidate can accurately predict anything on matters for WRC and our Communities until the successful Candidate gets to the truth of WRC’s financial position and quickly confirms the extent of WRC’s wastage of Community Resources. Yes, roads, housing and all the other feel-good comments that other candidates might sprout are automatic musts. It is a bit like the Miss World beauty pageant contestants all exclaiming their priorities for “world peace.” Of course!

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Bowen Gumlu Growers Association led initiative ‘New Realities in Agriculture and Aquaculture Project’ has successfully concluded, revolutionising youth engagement in agriculture and aquaculture by offering an immersive virtual reality experience.

The project allowed participants a window in careers in agriculture and aquaculture, utilising virtual reality, with the selected young people reporting newfound enthusiasm and appreciation for the diverse career opportunities in the industry.

"This innovative initiative has effectively bridged the gap between new technology and traditional industries for North Queensland's youth. Through virtual reality, we've provided a practical glimpse into the future of agriculture and aquaculture, sparking genuine interest, and understanding among young participants that we hope to continue to build upon for the future of our rural and regional industries" said Ry Collins, CEO of Bowen Gumlu Growers Association.

Supported financially by the Queensland Government’s Growing Workforce Participation Fund (GEPF), a critical component of the Back to Work Initiative, and was instrumental in enabling the ‘New Realties Project’ to bring virtual reality experiences to the youth, helping them gain insights into the vast potential of the agriculture and aquaculture sectors.

The Bowen Gumlu Growers Association looks forward to sharing the case studies, highlighting real life success stories and the positive industry perception change by the project.

“This will continue to shape the future of agriculture and aquaculture in North Queensland.”

Bowen Gumlu Growers Association is a not-for-profit industry association that represents growers, producers, and agribusinesses in North Queensland, with key activities including advocacy, industry development and delivery of projects focused on improving on-farm practices, commercial outcomes of farming businesses and the prosperity of the wider regional Whitsunday community.

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The Department of State Development, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning and Whitsunday Regional Council are inviting business to a Business Capability Development session aimed at supporting local businesses and industry in positioning for work throughout major project and business supply chains.

This session will include delivery of a Capability Statement Workshop and Tendering: Top Ten Tips presentation.

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WHAT: Business Capability Development Sessions
WHERE: Whitsunday Regional Council Chambers
WHEN: Thursday March 7, from 9am
REGISTER: $50, available through https://bit.ly/3uczICX, with registrations closing March 4

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The Rotary Club of Bowen has officially celebrated 71 years of establishment, alongside the 119th anniversary of Rotary around the world.

While the actual birthday of the Rotary Club of Bowen isn’t until June, Club President Helen Woodhouse explained that the Club decided to “tag” along with the 119th anniversary of Rotary as their birthday function.

The group were delighted to see Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, come along to celebrate the milestone.

“The idea of the event was to tag along with the Rotary’s birthday, share the story and legacy of Paul Harris, Founder of Rotary,” she said.

Helen Woodhouse was also awarded with her third Paul Harris Fellow recognition Medal, for her outstanding commitment and dedication to Rotary.

Helen was surprised by the award.

“I never expected it,” she explained.

Being her third Paul Harris Fellows Recognition Medal, Helen said that she is honoured by the recognition, however her work is primarily the promotion of the Club in the Bowen community.

“I have been the President for six years, and in June, I am stepping down.

“When I first stepped up to the job, we only had three members, and now we have nine. It is very important to keep our club going, and I am very honoured by this medal.”

Regular initiatives of the Rotary Club of Bowen include fundraising for Polio research and treatment, fundraising for local schools and for annual school awards, and the upkeep of Rotary Park at Horseshoe Bay.

The Club are also about to launch three Little Free Libraries, to be erected at high thorough fare points in Bowen, for residents and visitors to collect and return novels and literature at no cost.

“We’re a lowkey club, but with an increase in members, we’re excited to increase our efforts.”

If you are interested to join the Rotary Club of Bowen, please contact Club President Helen Woodhouse, on 0439 549 962 or via email bowen@rotary9560.org. Interested parties are welcome to attend their monthly meetings, on the first Saturday of every month.

  1. Guests of the Rotary Club of Bowen’s birthday celebrations

   2. Club President Helen Woodhouse with Merewyn Wright Former District Governor

   3. Merewyn Wright and Helen Woodhouse with Allan Church, Former District Governor. Photos supplied

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Greys Bay in Bowen is welcoming two new undercover shelters, ahead of the expected influx of visitors.

The shelters, which include a picnic setting, overhead cover and solar lighting, will allow visitors and locals to enjoy the beach in shade.

The first shelter will be placed at Greys Bay Lookout, with works beginning earlier last week, and expected to be completed by mid-March.

The second shelter will be in Lions Park, with exact times for the expected work to be confirmed, once materials arrive.

Both areas will be cornered off using temporary fencing, while the works are being completed.

“It is fantastic to see the Whitsunday Regional Council improving facilities in these areas,” explained Leanne Abernethy, Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business.

“Bowen is the heart of secluded beaches, so it is great for our tourism industry that we continue to update facilities around all our beautiful beaches and bays.”

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Photo supplied

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This month’s Ask An Expert with Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry asks: Are business plans a waste of time?

Some Chamber Board members responded. 

Melinda of Melinda Louise Media believes that business plans are key to success. It provides a framework for strategic direction, identifies goals, timeframes to monitor growth and financial targets, and track progress. It can be revisited as the business grows and adapted to market and customer shifts. 

Are they a waste of time? 

“No way!” said Jannah of Scallywag Fabrication. “Often, it feels they are when you’re knee deep in customer deadline quicksand, but when you're trying to win a job, negotiating supplier pricing, comparing competitors, planning your marketing, thinking about your goals, or just looking at future cash flow, you’re drafting your plan in your head. Just write it down!”

Kim of Hummingbird Refrigeration, Electrical & Air Conditioning said “Definitely not, so long as you treat it as a dynamic rather than static plan and regularly review it. Don't overthink it!”

“You can’t drive a car without knowing where you’re going … that’s what a business plan is, the navigation map to the end point” replied Annette of PRD Whitsunday Real Estate.

Anthony of Airlie Beach Executive Services believes that business plans serve to reference the original idea, it's important to be able look back and see how you've tracked. 

Got a business question? Contact the Chamber to ask!

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Respected people-focused company, Shiift, celebrated year four by holding their first 2024 Thriive Event last week, bringing together over 40 women in an uplifting evening event which inspired conversations and self-reflection.

Participants were guided through a series of lively soul-searching activities, sharing experiences with their peers, and insightful observations about their journeys so far.

Thriive is a monthly women-only event held by Shiift, a local company which specialises in people, culture, leadership, and performance.

Their invigorating two-hour evening workshops are high-energy and packed full of useful content about how to navigate both hectic lives and demanding careers.

Held monthly, the first workshop focused on setting your future self-up for success.

Attendees were asked to imagine where they would be in five years and also 10 years’ time – asking the question – is the person you imagine similar to the person you are today?

Small group discussions were held, and animated conversations ensued followed by an opportunity for each group to share their thoughts with the rest of the room.

Workshop facilitator, Judy Porter, offered entertaining and thought-provoking dialogue on the topic and encouraged everyone to treat their future selves as a dear friend.

“By understanding and liking your future self you can make better informed decisions today,” she said.

“People who are more connected with their future selves are more successful and experience greater life satisfaction.”

The next event will take place on Thursday 21st March and will cover the interesting topic of ‘Finding Utopia For Introverts and Extroverts’.

All women are welcome and invited to join the group for monthly inspiration and connection that enables you to truly Thriive.

To find out more https://shiift.com.au/events/ 

Caption: Judy Porter from Shiift speaking at the most recent Thrive event. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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Earlier this week, I travelled out to Collinsville to meet with people interested in building tourism in Collinsville. It was such a great trip, and I really enjoyed the short time I had out there. My colleague, Cait Fleming, and I visited to work with the established Collinsville Tourism Advisory Group and it was a really collaborative session. There are so many ideas that come out in sessions like this.

If you’re in Collinsville and interested in joining in on the group, please email reception@tourismwhitsundays.com.au and we’ll ensure you’re on the list for the next meeting date.

As a local who had previously only visited Collinsville briefly, this week’s trip opened my eyes to what is a little town with a lot going on.

There’s a community pool, waterpark and playgrounds, a free 72-hour RV Park, the Coal Face Experience – a look at the history of mining in Collinsville - and many more activities to do.

On my list for next trip is the No.1 Mine Site and Historical Society, I’m looking forward to it.

If you find yourself out that way, make sure you stop in on the Pit Pony for lunch or dinner – the Mango Chilli Prawns are delicious!

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Caption: Jade Richardson from Tourism Whitsundays with Shayne Crump from Collinsville Community Association. Photo supplied

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