Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Students with a creative flair are being encouraged to step forward and submit their artwork for the chance to see it projected onto the façade of Australian Parliament House. The opportunity is open to creative students in Years 5 and 6 across Dawson, with selected artworks set to feature as part of Canberra’s Enlighten Festival 2027, which will run from February 26th to March 8th and celebrate light, art and creativity. As part of celebrations marking 100 years of Parliament in Canberra, artworks from every Australian state and territory will be projected onto the Australian Parliament House façade. Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP said the opportunity would allow young artists to showcase what makes the Dawson region special. “Our part of Queensland is pretty hard to beat when it comes to inspiration,” Mr Willcox said. “We have the Great Barrier Reef, cane fields, beaches, rainforest, rivers, farmers, fishing, wildlife and some of the most unique communities in the country. “There is plenty there to put on the big screen, and in this case, the screen is Parliament House itself.” From the natural beauty of the Great Barrier Reef and cane fields to local wildlife and communities, students are being encouraged to draw inspiration from the places, people, animals, plants and landscapes that make their part of Australia unique. Mr Willcox said he would love to see Dawson represented among the artworks selected for the national display. “I would love to see a slice of Dawson among them,” Mr Willcox added. “Imagine walking around Canberra at night and seeing Parliament House illuminated with artwork created by a student from Dawson. “That would be something to be proud of.” The program also provides students with an opportunity to engage with civics and learn more about the home of Australia’s democracy. Mr Willcox is encouraging schools, teachers and parents across Dawson to support creative Year 5 and 6 students to take part. Submissions close Thursday, October 29th. A student toolkit containing tips and templates, along with a fact sheet for parents, is available through the Parliament House website at aph.gov.au/StudentArtwork. Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP is calling on creative Year 5 and 6 students across the region to submit their artwork for the chance to feature on Australian Parliament House during Enlighten Festival 2027. Photo supplied
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Mackay’s CBD and St Patrick’s Church on River Street were filled with officers in blue last Tuesday 29th September, as Queensland Police Service officers gathered alongside local representatives and members of the public to honour the lives of those who never came home from their shift. A march through the Mackay CBD was followed by a memorial service at St Patrick’s Church for National Police Remembrance Day. Officers and staff from across Mackay joined members of the community to honour those who lost their lives in the line of duty and reflect on their courage, dedication and sacrifice. Mayor Greg Williamson spoke about the community’s appreciation for police and the important role officers play across the region. He highlighted how police are often the first people the community turns to when there is a safety concern, while also recognising officers as members of local families and communities. “The people of Mackay call them when there's community safety at risk. And so, today, there's a chance for us, as a community, to join with the police force and say, We, as a community, really appreciate what you do.” “To the people who put their hand up to be in the police force, thank you. Thank you for what you are doing for us as a community, and for Queensland in general.” “Quite often, we take the police for granted, but that's who we call first, when there's a community risk apparent.” Mackay Whitsunday District Officer Superintendent Dean Cavanagh spoke about the officers who made the ultimate sacrifice and the lasting impact their deaths have had on families, friends, colleagues and the wider community. He also reflected on the strong attendance at the memorial and the respect shown towards those being remembered. “Today we come together as one voice to remember those officers who made the ultimate sacrifice.” “We gather not only to remember their courage, but also to acknowledge the profound impact their loss has had on families, friends, colleagues, and this community.” “It’s a privilege to see such a strong attendance here today, and it always demonstrates the enduring respect held for those that we remember.” “Please remember that today’s an opportunity to recognise the values of service, sacrifice and a reminder that behind every badge is a person.” “With honour they served.” On Tuesday 29th September, Mackay police officers, local representatives and community members gathered for National Police Remembrance Day. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
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A one-year-old girl has tragically died following a fatal traffic crash in Dysart on Sunday, 27th September. Emergency services were called to Golden Mile Road at about 9.05am after a single vehicle left the road and rolled. The one-year-old girl was declared deceased at the scene. A five-month-old boy also sustained serious injuries in the crash. The driver, a 22-year-old Moranbah woman, sustained minor injuries. Police are appealing for anyone who may have information, including dashcam or CCTV footage, to come forward. The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash. There were no further updates at the time of print.
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A thoughtful act of kindness is helping bring a little extra warmth to premature babies and their families at Mackay Base Hospital. My Hospital Foundation recently expressed their gratitude to the team Mackay Youth Justice Services, for a delivery of hand-knit premature baby beanies. The cosy hats were knit by a young person in connection to the service as part of their community hours, with help from Indigenous Service Support Officer Jackie T. “These beautiful handmade gifts have been donated to babies at Mackay Base Hospital and will bring comfort to families during a very special time,” a spokesperson said. “Acts of kindness like this make a real difference in our community. Thank you for your generosity and support.” The beanies are a reminder that even small gestures can make a big impact, with the young person's time and effort helping to support local families when they need it most.
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The Rotary Club of Mackay has marked a major milestone, celebrating 100 years of service to the community with the unveiling of a commemorative plaque and a mural honouring the organisation's rich history and far-reaching impact.
Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson attended the unveiling on Tuesday evening, where the plaque was installed at the site where the club's founding members first met to discuss establishing a Rotary club in Mackay.
The plaque has been placed on the wall of the former Imperial Hotel building in Victoria Street, thanks to the support of Brown and Bird's Andrew Duck and Chris Wright. Visitors can scan a barcode on the plaque to learn more about the club's history.
The story of the Rotary Club of Mackay dates back to July 1926, when Brisbane Rotarian Tom McWilliam travelled to Mackay to investigate whether a local chapter could be formed. Following a series of meetings, including a preliminary gathering at the Imperial Hotel on July 27th the club was officially established, with its charter granted later that year.
As part of the centenary celebrations, artist Martin Jegou, of Gwada Murals, created a mural reflecting Rotary's local and international contributions over the past century. The artwork highlights the club's support for youth programs, healthcare initiatives, homelessness services, domestic and family violence prevention, reconciliation projects and environmental efforts.
Over the decades, the club has contributed to projects throughout the Mackay region, across Australia and internationally, including work in Vanuatu and Timor-Leste, while continuing to uphold Rotary's enduring commitment to service above self.
Image source: Queensland Police Service, Mackay & Sarina
A 46-year-old man from Beaconsfield has been charged following investigations into a break and enter at an East Mackay residence on 18th July.
Police will allege the man unlawfully entered a retirement facility on McIntyre Street between 2pm and 4.30pm on 18th July, stealing multiple items from the residence of a 95-year-old woman. The stolen property allegedly included jewellery, identificationand cash.
As part of ongoing investigations, police executed a search warrant at a Bellavista Court address in Beaconsfield on 28th July, where several items of jewellery were allegedly located.
The 46-year-old has been charged with enter dwelling and commit, and possessing dangerous drugs. He has been remanded in custody and is due to reappear before Mackay Magistrates Court on 3rd August.
The investigation forms part of Operation Yankee Forge, a six-month, district-led statewide initiative targeting high-harm and high-volume offences, including unlawful use of motor vehicles, unlawful entry and robbery.
The operation is designed to strengthen community safety by enhancing policing activities across Queensland, with officers undertaking coordinated disruption operations aimed at reducing victim numbers and holding offenders accountable.
Supported by specialist squads, police regions will focus on crime prevention through increased visibility while preventing, disrupting and investigating offences, with particular emphasis on unlawful use of motor vehicles, robbery and unlawful entry. The initiative is locally led and centrally coordinated, drawing on the knowledge and experience of officers within their communities.
Reference number: QP2601392813
Sarina Police are seeking the public's assistance to help identify the owner of a trailer seized during a search warrant at Armstrong Beach on 2nd July.
The trailer, pictured, was seized by Sarina Police during the execution of the search warrant.
Anyone with information about the trailer or its contents is urged to contact Sarina Police on 4964 8444 or report information at any time via Policelink.
Reference number QP2601281517
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The proposed site for the approved McDonald's development at 230 Anzac Avenue, Marian. Photo source: Mackay Regional Council
A proposed McDonald's restaurant for Marian has been approved by Mackay Regional Council, despite attracting dozens of community submissions, a petition and ongoing concerns about its location on the banks of the Pioneer River.
The proposed 24-hour food and drink outlet will be built at 230 Anzac Avenue, with council confirming it was legally required to assess the application against the Mackay Region Planning Scheme and the State Government's Planning Act.
Council received 52 public submissions and a petition opposing the development, with many residents raising concerns about traffic, pedestrian safety, environmental impacts and the loss of valuable riverfront land.
Mayor Greg Williamson said council understood the concerns raised by the community but was bound by legislation when determining the application.
"Based on the amended plans, supporting reports and State Government approval now before council, the proposal was determined to largely satisfy the applicable assessment benchmarks. Where non-compliances were identified, these were able to be dealt with via conditions and have been approved subject to a number of conditions, including conditions designed to limit its impact on neighbours," Mayor Williamson said.
Council Chief Executive Officer Gerard Carlyon said while many residents opposed the proposal, the site had been zoned for mixed-use development since 2017.
"While council appreciates a number of community members are opposed to a McDonald's in that location, the reality is that the land was zoned for mixed use development, including commercial development back in 2017 and the site has been available for McDonald's or any other suitable commercial development since that time," Mr Carlyon said.
Under Queensland's planning laws, the application was assessed as a code assessable development, meaning council was required to determine it against the planning scheme rather than public opinion. While community submissions were considered, the application had to be approved if it complied with the planning requirements or could be made compliant through conditions.
Because Anzac Avenue is a State-controlled road, the Queensland Government was responsible for assessing traffic, road access and pedestrian safety. That approval was granted on June 30th and included conditions requiring a dedicated right-turn lane, a centre median with a pedestrian refuge and improved pedestrian connections.
The outcome has disappointed members of the Pioneer Valley Community Alliance, which had campaigned for the proposed McDonald's to be relocated to a more suitable commercial site rather than the Pioneer River frontage.
Campaign spokesperson Karla Costello argued the proposal was not appropriate for a venue specifically designed to attract children and families.
"McDonald's is actively designing this venue to attract children, birthday parties and family groups, yet it has not demonstrated that those families can safely park, cross the road and reach the restaurant," Mrs Costello said.
The group also questioned the proposal's impact on the Pioneer River frontage, pedestrian access and parking, while a Change.Org petition opposing the location attracted more than 1,500 verified signatures available via www.change.org/p/stop-mcdonald-s-from-being-built-on-the-pioneer-river.
Although the campaign acknowledged Marian could support a McDonald's restaurant, it maintained the business should be built within the established commercial precinct rather than on the riverfront.
Council has now approved the development subject to conditions.
Mackay & Sons House Removals and Demolition is taking part in this year's Queensland MACK Muster Charity Convoy to raise funds for two deserving Queensland charities. Photo source: Mackay & Sons House Removals and Demolition
Mackay & Sons House Removals and Demolition is hitting the road for a cause, joining this year's Queensland MACK Muster Charity Convoy to help raise vital funds for two Queensland charities supporting families through some of life's toughest challenges.
Proudly organised by the Woodford Lions Club, the annual convoy brings together truck owners and operators from across the state, with all proceeds split equally between the Jackson Hepner Foundation and Get Yourself Checked.
Established in memory of Jackson Hepner, the Jackson Hepner Foundation provides practical and emotional support to young people battling cancer and their families through care hampers, financial assistance and community support.
Meanwhile, Get Yourself Checked is dedicated to raising awareness of men's health, particularly prostate cancer, encouraging regular health checks and promoting the importance of early detection.
Mackay & Sons is calling on the community to get behind its fundraising efforts, with every dollar donated going directly to the two charities.
"Every donation, big or small, helps these amazing organisations continue their life-changing work," the team said.
To support Mackay & Sons' Queensland MACK Muster fundraising campaign, visit the Queensland MACK Muster website and sponsor the team's trucks.
Mackay community members came together for powerful workshops focused on healing, respectful relationships and creating positive change for future generations. Photo supplied by Zonta Club of Mackay
Powerful conversations about healing, accountability and respectful relationships took centre stage in Mackay when the Zonta Club of Mackay hosted two She Is Not Your Rehab events featuring internationally recognised speaker Matt Brown.
Bringing together frontline workers, educators and community members, the events encouraged honest reflection on trauma, personal responsibility and the importance of breaking harmful cycles for future generations.
Held with the support of local organisations and volunteers, the free sessions highlighted the Mackay community's commitment to creating safer, stronger and more connected communities. Through storytelling, shared experiences and practical tools, attendees were reminded that meaningful change often begins with a single conversation.
Zonta Cub of Mackay recently hosted two powerful She Is Not Your Rehab events, creating important conversations around healing, accountability, respectful relationships, and the prevention of domestic and family violence.
Presented by Matt Brown, co-founder of She Is Not Your Rehab, the events challenged participants to reflect on their own stories, the impact of childhood experiences, and the role each person can play in creating healthier families and communities.
The workforce development event brought together professionals from across the DFV, community and education sectors. The free session provided an opportunity for those working on the frontline to explore how understanding trauma, emotional wellbeing, and personal responsibility can enhance their support for individuals and families.
The community event, held at Mackay North State High School, welcomed community members for an evening of honest storytelling, reflection, and connection. Through powerful lived experience and practical tools, attendees were encouraged to consider how breaking cycles of hurt and choosing healing can create positive change for future generations.
Matt Brown shared a powerful message throughout the event:
“We can’t heal what we won’t acknowledge. The work starts with looking within ourselves, understanding our story, and choosing to do things differently for the people we love.”
A key resource highlighted during the events was the Inner Boy app, a free wellbeing tool designed to help people reflect on their emotions, build self-awareness, and begin the process of reconnecting with the younger parts of themselves that may still carry pain, fear, or unresolved experiences.
The response from both events highlighted the Mackay community’s willingness to have courageous conversations and be part of creating meaningful change. Addressing domestic and family violence requires more than awareness—it requires education, reflection, accountability, and a commitment from all members of the community.
These events were made possible through the generous support of community partners and sponsors, including the Queensland Mental Health Commission, Mackay West Rotary Club, Queensland Centre for Domestic and Family Violence Research (QCDFVR) and Rotary Club of Mackay. Their support helped bring this important conversation to Mackay and demonstrated a shared commitment to building safer, stronger communities.
By continuing to challenge harmful behaviours, encourage healing, and promote respectful relationships, Mackay is taking important steps towards a future where every person has the opportunity to feel safe, valued, and supported.
The Whitsundays might still be enjoying cool mornings and dry days, but the tropical wet season will be here before we know it. While there's no need to rush into storm preparations, spring is the ideal time to get ahead on the jobs that are easier to tackle in mild weather.
Start by checking your roof for loose screws or damaged sheets, trimming back overhanging branches and making a note of any gutters that need cleaning before the first heavy rains arrive. Spreading these jobs over a few weekends now can save a last-minute scramble later in the year.
It's also a good time to give the garden some attention, before it’s forced to hold its own against the elements. Pull weeds, top up mulch and prune back plants so they'll be ready for the warmer months ahead. Outdoor furniture can be cleaned and checked for signs of wear before barbecue season gets underway.
Inside the home, consider servicing your air conditioner before the heat returns. A quick check now can help avoid long waits once demand increases heading into summer. The last thing you want is to be boiling over a broken system.
Whether you're preparing your family home or an investment property, tackling a few maintenance jobs during spring can help your property weather the tropical months ahead while making the most of the region's pleasant winter conditions.
Six-month-old calico Paisley is searching for a patient family. Photo supplied: Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue.
Some friendships take a little time to blossom, and for six-month-old Paisley, the reward is well worth the wait.
This beautiful calico rescue cat may be shy when meeting new people, but it doesn't take long for her gentle personality to shine through. Once Paisley feels at home, she's happiest curled up beside her favourite person, earning her the title of the ultimate "Velcro cat."
Paisley has done well around older children and is searching for an indoor-only home where she can continue to grow. At just six months old, she's becoming more curious by the day and is ready to spend her kitten months exploring, playing and building lifelong bonds with her new family.
Desexed, vaccinated, microchipped and up to date with her veterinary care, Paisley is ready to find the forever family she deserves.
If you think Paisley could be the perfect addition to your home, contact Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue by direct messaging your name, phone number and "Paisley" to begin the adoption process.
No matter where you live in the Whitsundays, you should feel like your Council is delivering for your community. That's something my fellow Councillors and I are committed to, whether it's a major infrastructure project or smaller improvements that make everyday life a little better.
From Bowen to Collinsville, Proserpine to Airlie Beach, and our smaller rural communities, every town has its own character, its own priorities and its own story. Our job as a Council is to make sure we're delivering for all of them.
I was delighted to see the new Dingo Beach Swimming Enclosure completed after being rebuilt following Tropical Cyclone Kirrily. It's more than just a swimming enclosure to the Dingo Beach residents as it's a much-loved community asset that'sbeen bringing families together for generations.
What's even more special is that the original enclosure was built by local residents back in the 1960s using tea tree branches and netting. That community spirit is still alive today, with more than 600 people providing feedback that helped shape the design of the new enclosure through consultation.
The swimming enclosure is just one of several projects currently underway across the Gloucester community. The Gloucester Avenue road upgrade is progressing well, delivering safer access and improved drainage, while construction of the new Gloucester Trail will soon provide a beautiful walking connection between Dingo Beach and Hydeaway Bay.
These projects might seem small when compared with some of our major regional investments, but they're every bit as important. They improve everyday life, make our communities more connected and help showcase some of the most beautiful parts of the Whitsundays.
Whether we're delivering housing-enabling infrastructure in Cannonvale, Proserpine and Bowen, building new community hubs in Cannonvale and Collinsville, or investing in communities like Dingo Beach and Hydeaway Bay, our commitment is the same—to ensure every corner of the Whitsunday Region shares in the benefits of Council investment.
Because strong communities aren't measured by their size. They're measured by the pride people have in the place they call home, and that's something worth investing in.
The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce & Industry is inviting businesses from across the region to step out of the workplace and into the inaugural Chamber Games 2026.
Taking place from 3:00pm–5:00pm on Thursday 27th August at Club Whitsunday, the Chamber Games is a new community event celebrating teamwork, participation, and a healthy dose of friendly competition.
Open to businesses, community groups, and individuals, the Games will see teams of four rotate through a series of fun, accessible challenges inspired by local sporting clubs. No specialist skills or sporting experience are needed – just a willingness to have a go.
The event follows the 2026 Whitsunday Business Conference, but attendance at the Conference is not required. Whether you're joining us after the Conference or simply coming along for the Games, everyone is welcome.
Teams will compete for the Gold Medal Team and the inaugural Chamber Games Perpetual Trophy, along with Silver and Bronze medals and the Best Dressed Team Award.
Whitsundays Chamber President Allan Milostic said the Chamber Games was created to encourage businesses to celebrate the importance of teamwork in a fun and inclusive way.
"Strong businesses are built on strong teams. The Chamber Games is an opportunity to bring colleagues together, support our local sporting community and enjoy an afternoon that doesn't take itself too seriously. It's about participation, encouragement and having fun together."
Don't have a team of four? No problem. If you're keen to take part but need teammates, get in touch with the Chamber and we'll do our best to connect you with others looking to join a team.
With team entry just $20 for a team of four, it's an affordable way to celebrate your workplace, build team spirit and enjoy an afternoon of fun.
So gather your colleagues, choose a team name, wear your colours, bring your cheer squad, and get ready to take on the challenge.
Registrations are now open. We'd love to see businesses from across the Whitsundays represented on the field when the inaugural Chamber Games gets underway on 27th August.
Event Details
What: Chamber Games 2026
When: 3pm-5pm Thursday 27th August
Where: Club Whitsunday, Airlie Beach
Register: https://www.whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au/2026-chamber-games/
The mayor meeting his new coworker on the council, GJ. Photo supplied: Mayor Ry Collins.
Between the check-in counters, security and departure gates at Whitsunday Coast Airport, there is one team member whose job is to bring a little more ease to passengers before they fly.
Meet GJ, Whitsunday Coast Airport's four-legged therapy dog. Since joining the airport earlier this year, the chocolate Labrador has been swapping boarding passes for belly rubs, helping bring a sense of calm to travellers before they take to the skies.
Trained and assessed through Therapy Dogs Australia, GJ is right at home in the busy airport environment. Whether it's a wagging tail, a gentle nudge of the nose or sitting quietly beside someone, he's always happy to brighten a passenger's day and help ease any pre-flight nerves.
GJ's airport journey began after his family reached out to Whitsunday Coast Airport following his qualification as a therapy dog.
The partnership complements the airport's focus this year on creating a smooth and stress-free travel experience, alongside initiatives like its free curbside assistance program.
GJ's role is also set to extend beyond the terminal, with the four-legged ambassador soon joining Whitsunday Regional Council's Book Magic program, helping children build confidence and a love of reading through the calming presence of a canine companion.
GJ was unable to comment on this story as he is enjoying some much-deserved annual leave this August and will return, tail wagging, come September.
At Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine, we’ve streamlined the process by offering our free Home Loan Health Check service to anyone, even if they don’t bank with us. Here’s what’s involved and how you can benefit.
What’s involved in a home loan health check? The process starts with a review of your current interest rate, loan structure, home value, repayment options and remaining loan term.
We’ll also ask you about your goals and aspirations and any short or long-term plans you have for your lifestyle. We'll then explore options available to you. Every borrower has different needs, so a loan suitable for one person won't always suit another.
Why do I need it? Keeping the same home loan for a long time can mean missing out on more favourable loan options and interest rates. Plus, as your circumstances change, you may benefit from new features, repayments, or interest rates, better aligning your home loan to your life plans. You may even unlock equity in your home to finance a renovation, dream trip, or purchase another property.
Get a lower interest rate. Lower loan-to-value ratios (LVR) can sometimes secure a lower interest rate. When a home loan has been in place for a while, the LVR may have improved due to increased property value and decreased outstanding loan balance.
Access more suitable features. Older home loan products may lack features suiting your current financial situation. For example, an offset account can substantially reduce interest charges.
How often should you review your home loan? Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine recommends checking your home loan annually.
Other signs it’s time for a review include:
Realise your goals sooner with a home loan health check
Neglecting to review your home loan regularly can mean missing out on big opportunities, like accessing equity in your property or making significant savings on your interest repayments. If you have goals, a free home loan health check with Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine could unlock opportunities and get you there faster.
Make a time to see the Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine Branch Manager Amanda and the team.
Located: Whitsunday Plaza Cannonvale
Call (07) 4948 3599
Email cannonvale&proserpinemailbox@bendigoadelaide.com.au
WSPN July 2026 Brekky. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville.
The Whitsundays Suicide Prevention Network Breakfast continues to grow each month, with this month's gathering featuring generous community donations and a heartfelt motivational poem.
Held on the last Friday of every month outside Shirtfront Solutions, the breakfast brings tradies, business owners and community members together over sausages, eggs and a chat, creating a welcoming space to connect and support one another.
“It's really great to see the support from the community,” said WSPN CEO Matt Stokes.
“These are real opportunities that if you've got a friend that's struggling you can say, hey, why don't you come along?”
This past month saw an outpouring of support for the Whitsundays Suicide Prevention Network, with Justin Butler from the Whitsundays Game Fishing Club and Michael Kimpton from the Airlie Beach Triathlon Club presenting significant donations to the cause.
“By joining any sort of club, you're bringing in other people that you have other conversations with, particularly when things aren't going so well,” Justin said.
After the donations, attendees heard from Mike Fry from Lives Lived Well, who spoke about the link between addiction and suicide, drawing on their experience as an alcohol and other drug counsellor across the Whitsundays and Isaac region.
"There's a lot of connection between addictions and suicide, they share a lot of parallel journeys," Mike said.
Encouraging people to have a plan for difficult moments, Mike shared the "3Ds" strategy of delay, distract and decide. He explained that taking time to pause, find a positive distraction and lean on support networks can help people through a crisis.
The presentation concluded with a heartfelt poem about hope and resilience, leaving the crowd with a powerful reminder of the importance of connection and checking in on those around us.
Reeflections Artists with their teachers and Mayor Ry Collins. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville.
Young artists from across the Whitsundays are getting their time to shine, with a reef-inspired student exhibition opening at the Heart Hotel during this year's Great Barrier Reef Festival.
Featuring 11 artworks created by 10 Year 8 to 12 finalists from Proserpine State High School and St Catherine's College, the exhibition has more than doubled in size since showcasing just four artworks in its inaugural year.
Having judged the competition, Mayor Ry Collins attended the exhibition to present the awards and congratulate the young artists.
“We've got some great kids that do sport and sporting success…. but I think what we're seeing is we've got a real cultural undercurrent,” Mayor Ry Collins said.
“It's great to see that we've also got a really strong arts presence as well.”
Three students were recognised for their standout pieces, with Year 12 Proserpine State High School student Natalie Cooper taking first place for Guardians of the Reef.
Charlize Hunter, also from Proserpine State High School, claimed second for Woodsia, while St Catherine's Catholic College Year 11 student Sabine Butler placed third with False Idol, a reflection on climate change's impact on the Whitsundays.
The finalist artworks will remain on display at Heart Hotel and Gallery Whitsundays throughout August, giving the young artists the opportunity to have their work exhibited in a professional gallery setting.
"I think a lot of kids are just not sure about their ability,” said Visuals Art Teacher St Cats College in Proserpine, Caz Hanks.
“Giving them the push and encouragement that their work is actually amazing and worthy of being in a gallery is a great experience."
Chris Sturrie and the Grand Master of Kennedy Lodge, Jamie Collins. Photo supplied: Chris Sturrie.
Bowen Meals on Wheels has received another generous boost from one of its longest-standing supporters, with Kennedy Masonic Lodge making a significant donation to help the service continue supporting local residents.
The lodge has contributed thousands of dollars to Bowen Meals on Wheels over the years, most recently presenting the organisation's treasurer with another substantial donation.
The contribution comes at an important time for the service, with operating costs continuing to rise while demand has nearly doubled over the past 18 months. Despite increasing expenses for essentials such as insurance, groceries and gas, Bowen Meals on Wheels has maintained both the affordability of its meals and the high standard of service it provides.
The organisation says it has been fortunate to receive ongoing support from businesses, community groups and local organisations, allowing it to continue operating at a time when many Meals on Wheels services across Australia are struggling with reduced government funding and financial pressures.
While financial support has helped keep the service running, volunteers remain in short supply. Bowen Meals on Wheels has made several appeals this year for more delivery volunteers and is still looking for people who can spare around two hours on Monday, Wednesday or Friday mornings.
The organisation is encouraging anyone able to help, either as a driver or delivery assistant, to get in touch. It also hopes friends and family of existing clients might consider volunteering to help support some of Bowen's most vulnerable residents.
Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP invited locals for a barbecue at Peter Faust Dam last Sunday to mark the removal of the southern section from Alinta Energy’s Wind Farm proposal, which locals protested due to its proximity to Proserpine.
To acknowledge the milestone, Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP joined residents at Peter Faust Dam on Sunday for a community barbecue, bringing together those who had spent months campaigning against the proposal in the Kelsey Creek area.
"The community's collective voice demonstrated the positive outcome of this project not proceeding at Kelsey Creek," Ms Camm said.
"It was an opportunity to thank the community and Wind Farm Action Group for their respectful, consistent and united voice. It was through these efforts that supported my advocacy as the local member.”
Wind Farm Action Group member Alysha Lee said the gathering was a chance to celebrate a small win while recognising there was still more work to do.
“It was great to get together and go over what we’ve been fighting for the last 10 months, while being able to celebrate the small victory so far,” said Alysha.
"We still have the northern area to think about, but we feel like we have their support as we continue trying to help the community, which is great.”
Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP at the community barbecue held at Peter Faust Dam on Sunday.
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