With Swift mania sweeping the country, Blink 182 returning to the country for the first time since 2013, Pearl Jam announcing an Aussie tour and of course P!nk headed to Townsville next month there is truly something for everyone in the gig circuit right now.

Now the growing chorus of people yucking other’s yum is frustrating because when you think about the artist or entertainment that is your favourite, you cannot wrap your head around why others wouldn’t get on the boat with you. Interest is subjective to the individual.

I look at all these artists and while some of them I do love I wouldn’t say I’m a super fan by any means, but it reminded me of freshly 18-year-old Kaley, a student at Holy Spirit College, saved all my money from working at Eagle Boys Walkerston, flew to Brisbane to go to Rihanna’s September 2013 Diamonds World Tour solo. No regrets about that decision and would do it again in a heartbeat. The moment she hit the stage was euphoric, I sung my littles heart out, I cried, she touched my hand, and it will be a concert I’ll never forget.

Honestly, I’m so excited for the millions of people who will be having that with their favourite artists, especially in a post COVID world where there was a time when we thought we may never get the chance to see these people in person ever again.

So whether you’re into Swiftie, Blink, P!nk, Pearl Jam or anything else – I hope you have the best time and create memories that you’ll never forget to the sound tracks of your life. And if you’re a hater… I hope your favourite artists never come here because we have no time for negativity. Let people live their best life.

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Hi Everyone,

Great to hear Bowen Pink Stumps was another huge success over the weekend and congratulations to the organisers, Bowen Cricket Association, whose event was once again able to be included in the top 10 of fundraisers Australia-wide.

Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, the Bowen Pink Stumps event was made even more special by the attendance of cricketing legend Glenn McGrath who catapulted our small regional town onto the national playing field once again.  

Our journalist, Bronte, was present on the day and was thrilled to get an exclusive interview with the man himself, commenting that he was indeed, very tall.

Speaking of Bronte, this is probably a good time to let you all know that sadly she is leaving us to return to her home town after a year writing across all four of our publications, and in particular this newspaper.

Since she started, Bronte has been a ray of light, not only in the office, but also with everyone she has met in the community.

I am frequently getting calls or involved in conversation where Bronte’s name is raised and praised far and wide.

She will be fondly remembered for her year in the ‘hot tropics’ – her hilarious phone interviews with good looking local musicians, her pineapple hair styles when it gets too hot and her ability to make every one she spends time with feel great.

For me personally, I will miss the massively important role she played writing often dozens of articles every week, always ready to help, forward-thinking and jumping in to predict what the paper needs next.

Bronte will now be moving closer to family who she has missed greatly over the last year, and we wish her all the luck in the future.

She is not leaving until the second week of March so if you see her around over the next few weeks make sure you wish her well.

Rach

Quote of the Week: “Change is hard at first, messy in the middle and gorgeous at the end” (Robin Sharma)

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The Year 12 cohort at Whitsunday Christian College spread the Valentine’s Day love last week, gifting students and members of staff with a rose on Wednesday, February 14.

The students were excited to get involved, hand delivering roses to all students, from pre-kindergarten to Year 11, and all members of staff.

“We thought that roses would be a great way to spread love and kindness throughout the school for Valentine’s Day,” the Year 12 students explained.

“Staff, students, and families responded really positively to our idea. The students were especially excited to buy flowers and write notes for family, friends, and even beloved teachers.

“Everyone was really supportive and onboard with our plans whether that was by assisting us in preparing the roses or buying roses. The excitement definitely showed when everyone got their roses on Wednesday morning,” the cohort explained.

“The response from the school as a whole was much bigger than ever expected. We ended up selling about 450 roses.”

Principal of the College, Kylie Langshore said she is proud of the students.

“Our students are leading with purpose and have a heart for service. Student-led initiatives have such impact on the College community I am excited to see the fruit of these.”

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By Paul Gellatly

Bowen’s Chamber of Commerce has raised a jar to the health of Whitsunday region projects ahead of council elections in mid-March.

At its monthly meeting on February 14, the chamber heard addresses from Chris Monsour, agronomist and director of Prospect Agriculture, which operates a 250-hectare agave farm between Bowen and Proserpine; and Sean Brown, director of Bowen Pipeline Company, which is planning to build a 115-kilometre water pipeline from the Burdekin River to Bowen.

Chris Monsour told the audience of about 40 people that Prospect Agriculture's first agave harvest was in December 2023 and the resulting bottled debut has been on a limited release online, with Mr Monsour assuring  thirsty first customers that their purchases were being delivered "about now".

The focus of the first four years of the project has been to determine how best to harvest the plants to yield its heart, or pina, which has a 35 per cent  sugar content, about twice that of sugar cane. There is a range of uses for the processed pina, and one of the first is a trio of alcoholic beverages including whisky, vodka and agave spirit (known in Mexico as tequila).

Mr Monsour said agave had proved an ideal crop for the dry-region farm, although he conceded that "the Mexicans are probably not too happy with what we are doing".

The agave is harvested by a computer-controlled harvesting machine, which will process about 1000 plants a day, or a plant a minute, far faster than the manual harvest of Mexican tequila. The agave hearts are processed on site and according to Mr Monsour, "all the reports from those who know about spirits is that it is a very good spirit."

Mr Monsour said the international agave project was based on a slow-growing succulent crop (planting started in 2020) that was only really starting to get into gear now. New plantings were being added continuously and there are hopes that there will be a million agave under cultivation by 2025, up from about 580,000 now.

"If you laid the rows of agave end-to-end you would go from here to Rockhampton", he said

The farm is following green practices, with weed control being left to three goats, which Mr Monsour said gratefully were not eating the agave plants ... so far.

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1: Bowen Chamber of Commerce chairman Bruce Hedditch (left) with Chris Monsour, Cr Julie Hall and Sean Brown.

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Raising money and awareness for a cause close to their hearts, local couple Jared and Sophie Russell have launched a campaign to encourage more donations to fund much-needed research into brain cancer.

Sophie’s father, Brendan who is in his late 50s, was sadly diagnosed with a Glioblastoma Multiforme grade 4 in August 2023, and since then the family have been passionate about raising both money and awareness.

Originally from Armidale NSW, Brendan (Brenno) is a regular visitor to the Whitsundays, enjoying the atmosphere at the Airlie Beach Hotel.

He now has plans to move to the region permanently at the end of the year to be close to his family.

Fortunately, his treatment has been excellent following a referral to a highly skilled Neurosurgeon, who did a fantastic job at resecting 95 per cent of the tumour at the end of August.

He has since undergone six weeks of radiotherapy and chemotherapy at Tamworth Base Hospital and is now completing more chemotherapy at home.  

“Dad has the best attitude and outlook on life, and we know he will fight this with everything he has!” said Sophie.

To support her dad and raise money for additional research, Sophie has been sponsored to shave her head for charity.

Brenno is flying up to the Whitsundays this week and will personally shave off his daughter’s hair in a special gathering which will include close friends and family.

“My decision to shave my head is to raise much needed funds to help further research advancement for brain cancer,” explained Sophie.

“My goal is to raise $10,000, if you would like to support my fundraising efforts it would be amazing! Any donation, big or small, would be greatly appreciated! Thanks so much!”

So far, she has raised $6,295 and hopes to reach her goal over the coming weeks.

If you wish to donate, please go to the hostyourown.markhughesfoundation.com.au and select Sophie Russell.

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1: Brenno’s daughter, Sophie, will shave her head for charity this week. Photo supplied

2: Brendan was diagnosed with Glioblastoma Multiforme grade 4 in August 2023. Photo supplied

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Married at First Sight Australia Season 11 couple Eden and Jayden checked into Airlie Beach, for their Episode 3 honeymoon.

The Australian branch of the Show, Married at First Sight follows a number of strangers from across Australia who participate in a social experiment and are paired together by ‘love’ experts.

While the participants are not legally married for the television show, the stars complete an unofficial commitment ceremony, enjoy a luxurious honeymoon, live together for a time, and at the end of each week, enter a commitment ceremony to declare if they will stay together or leave the experiment.

First airing in 2015, over 100 couples have been paired together, however only about 10 couples have managed to keep the spark and remain together following the conclusion of their season.  

Season 11 couple, Eden and Jayden join a short list of couples who have honeymooned in the Whitsundays with Married at First Sight, following their unofficial commitment ceremony, staying at Club Wyndham in Airlie Beach.

Eden is a 28-year-old Gold Coast based recruitment manager, who has been single for three years, following her previous partner cheating on her with her best friend. Now deciding to put her trust in the experts, she is looking for a partner who is ambitious, generous, and loyal.

Jayden is a 26-year-old Queensland kickboxer, who is used to keeping people at arm’s length, and is looking for a partner who is fit, ambitious and independent.

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Eden and Jayden, staying at Club Wyndham. Photo supplied

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With the election race heating up, Mayoral Candidates are looking for every opportunity to engage with the community and The Whitsunday Conservation Council (WCC) are hosting a special event which is open to the public.

The Mayoral Candidate Forum is due to take place on 28 February, 6:30 pm start at the Reef Gateway Hotel in Cannonvale.

It is a free forum and everyone is welcome.

The forum theme is Sustainability and Liveability in the Whitsundays.

“As a Great Barrier Reef destination, the Whitsundays is second to none. But as tourism grows, so does the community. This growth is putting pressure on what we love most about the region, our natural environment,” said Tony Fontes from the Whitsunday Conservation Council.

“Our Council plays a key role in promoting sustainability and liveability in the Whitsundays. It is important that our elected officials recognise and fulfil their role. At the forum you will hear the candidates for mayor explain their vision and leadership for our region.” 

WCC is a community group operated by volunteers, with a supporter base of over 1,500 individuals. WCC works closely with Whitsunday Regional Council, advising on environmental issues and recently won their Environmental Achievement Australia Day Award.

The community is welcome to submit questions for the candidates through WCC. Simply email them to forum@whitsundayconservation.org.au by midday, Tuesday, 27 February. 

Doors at the Reef Gateway Hotel conference room will open at 6:00 pm for a 6:30 pm start.

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Please share with us one personal experience during your campaign trail so far that has really reinforced the reason you are running for council?

Richard Evans

Mayoral Candidate

It's the moments of truth with residents throughout the Whitsundays that drive home a common frustration: the perceived lack of effective engagement and responsiveness from our Council. This sentiment echoes across regions and towns, signalling a clear need for change. We can either do more of the same, keeping the status quo or vote for change. I want to bring the Whitsundays Pride back, fostering a culture of leadership, unity and integrity. My integrity statement is on my website: richard4mayor.com. 

Ry Collins

Mayoral Candidate

During the last week I’ve had a number of meetings including two of similar focus, one with a Bowen resident and another with a local hospitality business who expressed a strong desire for a council that genuinely values community engagement, delivers a strong plan, and lives by its public commitments and code. Their passion on these issues was inspiring and underscored the community’s craving for transparency, accountability, and a council committed to embedding customer service at the heart of its values and organisational culture.

Peter Hood

Mayoral Candidate

Peter Hood and Phil Batty are the only two candidates that have been threatened with legal action from the Whitsunday Regional Council for getting too close to the truth, just like they did with Mr Allan Dufty when they labelled him a serial pest back in 2011. Allan is loved by the community. We are not going away; we will not be silenced, and I think the recent behaviour of the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry has been disgusting.

Phil Batty

Mayoral Candidate

I approached a member of the public to tell him I was standing for Mayor and hand him a flyer. Immediately he reached for his phone, opened it, and showed me the screen from his notes. It said “Mayor Philip Batty”, he went on to say he read up and researched the profiles of all the candidates the night before and his take from that was Philip Batty Mayor. This was before seeing the flyer and a little more about my story and who I am.

Tony Price

Division 2 Councillor Candidate

Housing and accommodation are an issue mentioned all the time. There is a chronic shortage of 5–6-star accommodation all the way down to accommodation for staff and employees. Housing is too expensive so the Council as a matter of priority must look at ways to bring units, hotels, houses, and other forms of accommodation onto the market immediately. Maybe it’s a cultural shift whereby lots and houses are smaller or bigger densities used. This affects our ability grow and prosper as a region.

Clay Bauman

Division 2 Councillor Candidate

I'm encouraged by the support for my campaign, evidenced by the abundant “VOTE CLAY” signs in Division 2. All placed in accordance with Council’s guidelines at private properties with the owners' consent. This overwhelming support and other community feedback of appreciation for my council representation fuels my commitment to remain our voice in Council. It's heartening to see my efforts recognised collectively, motivating me to continue working towards our shared vision for the community's vibrancy, strength, and safety.

John Finlay

Division 6 Councillor Candidate

The experience of the overwhelming support of the community for my candidacy has really reinforced my desire to be Councillor.

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The Cannonvale Police Station is welcoming its newest recruit, First Year Constable Zac Richters-Nielsen, who joined the team last week.

Relocating from Brisbane, Zac’s professional background was in banking before he decided to make a career change and join the police force.

“I have always wanted to be a police officer since I was a little kid,” Zac explained.

Zac has started his new position at Cannonvale Police Station and says he is eager to get on the ground.

“I bring a readiness and eagerness to learn,” he shared.

“I am excited to experience what policing in the Whitsundays has to offer.”

During his training, Zac most enjoyed working alongside other recruits.

“My favourite aspects of training would be the other recruits, working closely alongside likeminded people made the experience very enjoyable.

Being pushed outside my comfort zone and building on my own capabilities and skill set was equally as rewarding.”

Since relocating to the Whitsundays, Zac has most enjoyed venturing to the beaches, something very different from Brisbane.

In his spare time he enjoys going to the beach and being social with mates.

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Whitsunday’s newest Police Officer is second from the left, with three other new first year constables and State Member for Mackay, Julieanne Gilbert. Photo supplied

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Terms 3 and 4 intakes of PCYC Whitsunday’s Get Set For Work Program have unveiled a refurbished dresser which has been brought back to life and is available for sale at the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre’s Furniture Shop.

Get Set For Work program coordinator Scott Lynch said he was looking for a project to complete with participates during the term, when the idea of renovating and refurbishing a piece of furniture came to mind.

“The Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre generously donated us the dresser, which had been donated to them, and all together, we sanded, painted and refinished it,” Scott explained.

Rebecca Woods, the Executive Officer of Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre welcomed the project, saying “All of us community organisations collaborate often, so this wasn’t the first time, nor will it be the last time that we all work together.”

“This is something that makes our town different, this collaboration, and it happens a lot more than people realise. Being a small town, we all rely on each other and network with each other,” Rebecca said.

The program participants worked with guidance from the Men’s Shed in Cannonvale, under the watchful eye of President Don McDonald.

“Scott rang us and told us he had some boys who wanted to get some hands-on experience and they were great,” Don explained.

“There’s was quite a bit of work to be done on the dresser, and we showed them how to do it, and then left it to them. The boys didn’t work quick, but it’s come out great.”

And Bunnings Airlie Beach generously donated the necessary products and treatments.

“Bunnings have a strong commitment to giving back to communities,” explained Kaci, the Bunnings Airlie Beach Activities Organiser.

“We’ve worked with PCYC and the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre before and we are always excited to get on board.”

The dresser was officially handed back over to the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre to be placed for sale in the Furniture Centre, ready for a new home.

“We wanted to do something to give back to the community,” Scott explained.

“It gave our participants something constructive to do, something great to complete and great skills to achieve. And now a number of this term’s participants have gone into trades, stemming from the skills they learned over this project.”

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1. The dresser before the Get Set For Work team refurbishment. Photo supplied

   2. The completed dresser handed over to the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre. Photo: Bronte Hodge

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Completely student led and student run, Proserpine State High School’s Seagrass Theatre and Music Company is gearing up for their 2024 production, reaching for new heights of performance, choreography, vocals, and costuming.

With over 90 students involved, including on stage, backstage, technical, front of house, and in the orchestra, the Seagrass Theatre and Music Company will be performing the inspiring ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat’.

Established in 2021, Seagrass allows students to explore the whole theatre experience, and provides them with the opportunity to be in a production outside of the bi-annual whole-school musicals.

“Our passion for the theatre really led Seagrass to what it is today,” explained Year 11 student Allegra Bradley, the productions Head of Promotions, as well as one of the show’s narrators.

Telling the story of Joseph from The Book of Genesis, ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat’ follows Joseph, who is betrayed by his brothers and sold into slavery. Created by Andrew Lloyd-Webber and Tim Rice, this is a must-see rock opera.

Year 10 student Wiremu Tairaki reprises his position as a minor role with a big character, coming on stage as the Pharaoh. This is his second school-based production, having performed on the school theatre stage initially with 2023’s production ‘Sweet Charity’.

“Theatre is something I am passionate about,” he explained.

Year 11 student Arwen Edwards-Bland returns to the stage with multiple roles in this production, often with 30-second quick changes and enigmatic characters. However, her biggest passion is choreography, having choreographed three of the dances for ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat’, and teaching them to the cast.

In fact, Arwen’s future prospects involve moving into musical theatre, before opening her own dance studio and dance school.

“It’s always been a dream of mine,” Arwen explained. “Dancing is a passion of mine, and I really want to teach dance.”

With her natural talent for choreographing, Arwen is excited to take to the stage and showcase her skills to a packed audience.

Year 11 student Hayden Hudak comes on stage as Reuben, one of Joseph’s 11 brothers.

For Hayden, this production really excites him, as his passion aligns highly with the stage.

“I have been involved with Seagrass since its inception and have always been helping put together shows and helping at every single rehearsal,” he explained.

Hayden said he was looking to pursue theatre as a profession following secondary school, wishing to get onto Broadway.

Not surprisingly, Hayden’s childhood is closely tied with musical theatre, having been born in New York City, and spending time at the theatre with his parents. Hayden is well known amongst the cast and crew for his tips and tricks for the stage, and for always being a helping hand.

“We wish to thank Mr McDermid, Mrs Napier and all the teachers and staff who have assisted and mentored our students withing Seagrass,” Allegra explained.

Allowing equal opportunity for all students with varying interests, the Seagrass rehearses and performs from the purpose-built Performing Arts Centre at Proserpine State High School.

“It’s amazing how everyone gets behind us and supports us.”

‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat’ performances will be April 18 to 20, with three evening shows and one matinee on Saturday.

Tickets are going on sale in the upcoming fortnight. Keep updated via the Proserpine State High School Facebook page and website for more information.

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Some of the Seagrass Theatre cast, ready for the ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat’. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge

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Around town, Jaime Sparke is a notable figure, a much loved local and dedicated music fan, whose influence and impact is felt within the waves of the beats in the street.

He has become a regular face on the Airlie Beach Main Street, having moved to the region over 10 years ago, the temperature and climate agreeing with him and his active lifestyle, with many a local recognising him and his furry friend, Rocco.

Jaime’s diagnosis of cerebral palsy has not hindered his passion for life, with his active lifestyle including his job with the Airlie Beach Hotel in Band Promotions, his love for the beach and being outdoors, and spending time with his Rocco.

However, his primary mode of transport, a 20-year-old Honda Jazz, has outgrown its appropriateness, no longer supporting his needs, or catering to his lifestyle.

“The car isn’t entirely accessible,” explained Ben, a member of Jaime’s support family.

“Every time we use the car, we damage a part of Jaime’s wheelchair, and the car. And having Rocko riding on Jaime’s lap is cute, but not ideal.

“For the safety aspect, we would prefer something with a bit more space, something easier for Jaime to get into, and that we’re not damaging his chair too much.”

The NDIS specify they will only make the necessary modifications to a brand-new vehicle, something which Jaime and his family is unable to financially afford at this time.

With this in mind, Jaime has decided to crowd fund his way to a new car, hoping that people will support his desire for comfort and freedom which, in turn will enable him to give back more to the community he loves.

Primarily communicating through sign language, Ben translated for Jaime, explaining that Jaime is looking forward to riding shotgun in the new car, as well as sleeping in the car comfortably when travelling around

“Jaime is also excited to go on more road trips,” Ben translated.

“On our last road trip, he got a lasting piece of memorabilia, a tattoo of Rocko that he just loves.”

Having a new vehicle will provide freedom and comfort to Jaime.

“Jaime’s a bit of a local celebrity, and we all appreciate the people who have donated to the cause,” Ben explained.

To donate to Jaime’s new ride, please scan the QR Code here.

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1. Jaime Sparke with Rocco riding shotgun

   2. Jaime and Rocco at work at the Airlie Beach Hotel

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Last month I confessed to my dislike for setting goals – this month I’m professing my love for feedback!

And not just positive feedback – feedback which, when phrased the right way, is constructive, motivating and provides a clear pathway to creating tangible positive outcomes.

Negative, positive, constructive, and those hideous 360s – all feedback can be fraught with danger if it doesn’t land the right way and can result in further discord in the workplace than previous. Here’s some simple rules in providing constructive feedback to help you navigate your way to successfully build engagement, trust and growth.

   1. It’s about the behaviour – not the person. Discuss feedback objectively rather than create a personal attack on a team-mate. i.e. “You’re always late” vs “Do you think your Ops Manager role could be ready to roll by 8am each morning? If so, what’s stopping this from occurring?” The second scenario creates a safe entity to discuss further rather than having to defend your actions (which may occur in the first scenario).

   2. Feedback is a dialogue – not a directive. This means you are entering into a two-way discussion where you need to invite them to contribute to the discussion. If you simply give feedback and end the discussion you have only posited your point of view. This can alienate many people and create resentment if they have not been given a space for their perspective and to be heard.

   3. Listening creates space to learn – so learn to listen rather than continually provide your perspective.

   4. Create trust in workplace relationships – to be open to critical feedback we need to trust the person has our best interest at heart

   5. How often do you ask for feedback on your own performance? Not only will you gain insights into how others perceive you, you will undoubtably find new areas to grow in.

   6. Positive effort should praise effort as well as ability – some people may never kick the goals you set out for them but should still be recognised for the amount of effort they put in to the job at hand.

   7. Strong workplace relationships are built on a culture of honest, respectful feedback

   8. And lastly, everyone loves receiving positive feedback, but many just forget to give it ... don’t be that person.

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Holy cow – blink and it is the end of February! 2024 is charging ahead! Have you settled in and hitting your stride? Or are you still trying to get a handle on the year?

An essential quality for everyone in business is endurance – from starting a new business, having big goals to achieve, or just your to do list. Endurance in businesses means owners, operators, and their teams have the willingness to stick it out and the ability to work through challenges productively. Like any endurance athlete, businesses need to work on their strengths, fitness, and resilience to be the best and on top of their game. Looking after you and your team’s physical and psychological health is a great starting point for endurance building. While the year might be moving quickly for some, we have many months ahead. 

Just in case you missed it, the Whitsunday Regional Council election campaign is on.

The Chamber congratulates all Mayoral and Councillor candidates for stepping forward and their commitment to serving our community. As in the past, the Chamber will once again provide our members the opportunity to meet the mayoral candidates to explore specific issues relating to business, industry, and economic development. Event details are available on our website. This will be a member only event – focussed on business and economic issues specifically relating to local business and industry.

Post-election, the Chamber looks forward to briefing our newly elected representatives on our Ten Point Advocacy Plan. The purpose of the Chamber’s advocacy plan is to reflect and clearly articulate the major issues of shared aspiration and concern for the Whitsunday business community as a way of influencing decisions across all levels of government.

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With Allan Milostic, President, Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce & Industry

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By Paul Gellatly

At last week’s Bowen Chamber of Commerce meeting, Sean Brown, CEO of Bowen Pipeline Company, outlined his vision for a $600 million, 115km pipeline from the Burdekin to Bowen, using on-site extracted HDPE plastic pipeline yielding a 45 per cent cost saving and a five-million km reduction in B-double truck movements.

The pipe is to be extruded in 100m lengths and laid in a cutting that follows an old stock route for much of the way, which will simplify the approvals process. It will end at the Don River and will have 72 branches, many going to agriculture, which will ensure that the growing season can be extended from eight months a year to the entire year, and additional job certainty for farm workers. It will also allow opening up of a 400,000ha area south of Home Hill to high-value cropping.

BPC is in consultation with Sunwater to take a minimum of 80,000ML a year from the Burdekin dam total of 195,000ML available, providing a boost for agriculture, aquaculture, construction and others. The Burdekin water could also be used to top up Bowen's supply from Proserpine when needed.

Mr Brown said the company was seeking equity funding for the project, based on a model that he said aligned with industry expectations and timetables.

Another beneficiary could be the proposed HyNQ North Queensland Clean Energy hub, where water could be supplied for hydrogen production.

Mr Brown said the Federal Government had contributed $5 million to advance the business case, which was to be lodged in the next few weeks. He acknowledged the support of state ministers for agriculture, Mark Furner, and water, Glenn Butcher, and local member Dale Last.

"We hope that the (state) ministers will decide the project before the election," he said.

"We should be ready to start 12 months after that."

The meeting also farewelled Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor, Cr Julie Hall, who is retiring ahead of the March local government poll.

Cr Hall outlined some of her achievements during her term, which included expansion of the Proserpine airport terminal and increased flight services, and the Shute Harbour marine terminal, and the "tiny homes" project for older women.

Chamber chairman Bruce Hedditch paid tribute to Cr Hall for overriding the perceived alternating funding biases between north and south in the region, adding that: "You brought us all together."

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