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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A hidden oasis in the heart of Airlie Beach, Anchor Bar is celebrating a decade in business and the team are excited to invite locals and visitors alike to a weekend of birthday celebrations, in just over two weeks’ time.

And with a spectacular line up for the event, this will the celebration of the year!

“We have Chris Booroff and Friends ready to jam the afternoon away,” explained Josh Knutson, owner and operator of Anchor Bar.

“And a sweep of specials, with our Head Chef experimenting and showcasing his culinary skills with exotic and exciting dishes.”

And don’t miss the variety of delicious cocktail specials that Josh and his team have concocted, especially for this event. From sweet to sour and everything in between, there will be the perfect cocktail for your taste buds.

Open from 12pm, everyone is invited for this special event!

Anchor Bar first opened its doors back a decade ago when local couple, Josh and Leah Knutson embarked on a new venture at the old Terraces Bar which was an exciting local’s bar in need of revival.

Over the years, what Josh and Leah find the most pride in is playing a part in life’s milestones, of celebrations, and of memories.

“We’ve had christenings, then first and more birthdays,” Josh laughed.

“Birthdays, engagements, weddings, and everything in between, we love hosting special events and this is another one we are looking forward to sharing with our customers.”

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WHAT: Anchor Bar Turns 10!
WHERE: Anchor Bar, 5 Golden Orchid Drive
WHEN: Sunday, March 10, from 12pm

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It seems like the whole town has been talking about Eastwoods for several months now, so when I was asked where I’d like to go for my birthday dinner, I immediately knew where I wanted to book. I love Asian fusion cuisine and had been eagerly awaiting the moment I could devour some mouth-watering morsels at this popular local restaurant.

As soon as we arrived, we were ushered to our seats and served instantly by our waitress who eloquently detailed the cocktail of the day and specials list which she had memorised precisely. As a former-waitress myself, I was impressed by the service and doubly impressed when it remained equally proficient throughout the night.

Looking at the menu, every dish seemed exciting! A broad range of culinary delights from sticky pork ribs to raw hiramasa kingfish and spicy beef tartare. Despite being enthralled by the menu, however, I was unsure what to select. Thankfully, when our waitress returned, she explained that the dishes are meant for sharing so we enjoyed picking a variety.

Earlier that day, a friend had recommended the ‘Son In Law Eggs’ and, determined to be good to my word, we ordered them, along with the fried chicken wings for entree.

Brought to the table in rustic and charming kitchenware, both dishes looked like works of art and the tantalising aromas emanating from each was like a feast for the senses. Almost reluctant to break their beauty, we cut into the delicate looking eggs that were served with green mango chilli and sweet yellow bean sauce. The eggs were softly cooked to perfection and the sweet sauce left the tastebuds dancing in delight. I had never experienced eggs quite like this!

Next up were the fried chicken wings with lime leaf coriander house sweet chilli sauce and lime. The outer skin of the chicken wings gave a satisfying crunch when bitten into and the and the tangy sauce was punchy and vibrant. Again, some of the best I’d ever tasted.

For main course, we decided to share the Penang Curry with braised beef kipfler potato shallots and pickled cucumber. The meat and potatoes melted in your mouth and the sauce was deep and complex with a hundred flavours sending waves of bliss across your pallet. Meanwhile the pickled cucumber broke the flavour perfectly, its sharp tanginess a delicious contrast to the curry.

Sitting at our table afterwards with full and satisfied bellies, we felt absolute contentment. The rumours about Eastwoods are all true, a dining experience is an absolute delight and the food a lasting memory.

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Food Review By Rachael Smith.

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The newest kid on the block is here and they are here to stay, with a fantastic turn out for the opening of their new Bourbon Bar.

KC’s very own Bourbon Bar is making waves in the bourbon-whiskey world, with experts and connoisseurs coming out of the woodwork to put these specially curated bourbons to the test.

Owner and operator, and chief whiskey-drinker, Geoff Small “Smally” is eager to showcase this diverse selection.

“While you are exploring the 74 islands of the Whitsundays, you might as well explore our 74 new bourbons as well,” he said.

“Come on a journey with KC’s and pair our new bourbon cocktails with one of our bourbon flavoured dishes.

“Bourbon, steak and live music seem to all go hand in hand and are the perfect mix.”

Head Chef Troy Fuller has risen to the task, creating a series of dishes which perfectly blend the rich bourbon with delicate flavours.

“We love this selection of bourbon dishes for now, but we are already brewing up our next pick of dishes that is bourbon infused,” Troy explained.

“So, keep your eye out for our next menu re-invention in 4 weeks-time.”

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BEST BOURBON COCKTAIL: The Jack and Joe:

Bourbon, Kahlua, espresso, honey, cream, dash of cinnamon and coffee beans

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The return of the Whitsundays Writers Festival has just gotten better, with the announcement of internationally acclaimed author, Sally Hepworth, hosting a bespoke high tea book club, at My Rainbow Café.

Sally Hepworth is a renowned author, captivating hearts with her compelling storytelling.

With nine novels under her belt and over a million books sold globally, including her latest masterpiece, Darling Girls, Hepworth's literary prowess knows no bounds.

Festival President Karen Jacobsen expressed her excitement for the upcoming event, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome Sally to our Festival's Big Book Club High Tea.

“She is a talented author, and the event promises an afternoon filled with insight into her journey to literary success, including the exciting adaptations of her works to screen.”

The inclusion of Hepworth further enriches the Festival's stellar line-up, which already features distinguished authors such as Shankari Chandran, the 2023 Miles Franklin Literary Award winner, and renowned crime author Garry Disher.

“Our aim is to spotlight the remarkable success of Australian authors and showcase the extraordinary talent within our literary landscape,” Karen emphasised.

“The addition of Sally to the Festival’s line-up underscores our commitment to providing our community with unparalleled access to influential voices shaping contemporary literature. Stay tuned as we unveil more celebrated speakers in the coming weeks."

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Save The Date

WHAT: Big Book Club High Tea
WHERE: My Rainbow Bakery, Shingley Beach
WHEN: Saturday, September 7, from 3.15pm to 4.45pm

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Collinsville State High School have officially inducted their 2024 Student Leaders, with a ceremony held earlier this month.
The student leaders embody poise, confidence, and an eagerness to serve the school with pride and determination.

Senior Leaders

Cooper Groocock

Claudia Lee

Jayme Lee

Darcy Teichmann

Senior Student Council Executives

President: Cooper Groocock

Vice President: Claudia Lee

Secretary: Darcy Teichmann

Treasurer: Mckenzie Grosskreutz

House Captains Boomerang

Senior Captain: Kayne Bird

Junior Captain: Alexie Collett

Senior Vice Captain: Matilda Lee

Junior Vice Captain: Natalia Bull

House Captains Woomera

Senior Captain: Stevie Lee

Junior Captain: Katie Sammon

Senior Vice Captain: Shianne McGregor

Junior Vice Captain: Yasmin

'

   1. Senior Leaders: L-R: Mckenzie, Darcy, Claudia and Cooper

   2. Senior Student Council Executives Back : Cooper Front L-R: Jayme-Lee, Claudia and Darcy

   3. House Captains Boomerang L-R: Kayne, Natalia, Matilda and Alexie

   4. House Captains Woomera L-R: Yasmin, Katie, Shianne and Stevie – Lee. Photos supplied

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The end of 1939 saw our first real holiday. Arrangements were made with Ken MacPherson to take our family and the Jenkins family to Nellie’s Beach. When Ken arrived with the seven Jenkins, Colin Hinschen (Doris Jenkins’ brother), his friend Bill Hewson and the five in our family, it made a total of 14, plus Ken the driver. Ken’s truck was a one ton four-cylinder Chev with a tray body.  

We had borrowed two tents and used our empty 100-gallon tank to store clothes and food. So much had to be thought of - for instance, an axe to cut tent poles, a hurricane lantern, kerosene frying pan, billy cans, enamel plates, cutlery, pannikins etc. Being the first camping trip for both families meant a lot of sorting out so we did not double up, when everything plus people had to fit on a fairly small tray.  

We set off with the smallest kids in the middle perched on whatever was available and the men at the back getting covered with dust. There were countless gullies with the crossings virtually straight up and down. The women were scared of the creek crossings with high banks and would get out and walk.

We arrived mid afternoon and unloaded. The men cut tent poles, set up camp, then went on the truck with the tank, filling it about half full from the water hole. They slid it off on skids and that was our week’s water supply for drinking and cooking.

During the day, the grownups would go fishing at Nellie’s Point. Only having three fishing lines that they borrowed with a piece of rock or coral for a sinker, they would take turns to fish.  To get bait, Dad set me up with a grass tree rod, a cork and a perch line.  He would smash a periwinkle for bait and I would soon catch a parrot fish which would then be chopped up and proved to supplement the larder of schnapper, bream and cod. In those days, we always scaled but never filleted.

It was a real adventure, sleeping on the ground, eating off a camp fire. Most of the children had never seen the ocean.  It was a great time for everybody mixing together, sharing the work, we kids running around in the pools when the tide was out, swimming twice a day, probably the cleanest we ever were.

On Sunday, our neighbours, the Daffaras, arrived in their dickey seat Chrysler bearing fresh bread which was most welcome.

One evening, just on dark, there was a real scare. Our three-year-old sister was missing so we all scattered, calling her. Fortunately, while there was just enough light to see, Mum found her wandering between the beach and the scrub.

A chap, Len May, was camped a little further along. He and his mate, were going around to the gully at the end of Dingo Beach and Dad and I joined them. Len had a cast net and caught lots of small herring, whiting and mullet. Amongst them were small black eel tailed fish with a white stripe. Of course, I would have to pick one up! Talk about sting! Apparently, it was a type of cat fish. Len chewed up some tobacco and put it on my finger. It eased the pain somewhat but made me worry about picking up unknown fish in the future.

Eventually, the trip ended but this was to set a pattern for holiday trips to Dingo Beach for many years to come.

Text and photo courtesy of Proserpine Museum.

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Larry Muller had 37 points in Tuesday's stableford event to beat Sean Gower by a shot. Anna Winterbourn edged out Nicole Cooper on 29 points. Pins went to Sean Gower, Diane Chard, Larry Muller and Tina Badenhorst.

Wednesday's two-shot winner was Anna Winterbourn with 31 points ahead of Tina Badenhorst; with the pins going to Diane Chard, Rehab Hull, Tina Badenhorst and Jacqueline Wall.

Sean Gower won the A division of Thursday's stableford by edging out Chris Brett on 37 points. John Strelec took out the B division with 36 points, John Oates was runner up on 35, and the pins were to Lewis Tuck and Gary Scotford.

Friday's Met run winner was Troy Leisch with 22 points ahead of George Steen on 19. Pins went to Elise Hodgson and George Steen.

The MBW A division winner was Scott Lee with 40 points ahead of Theunis Venter on 39. Marcus Heathcote won the B division with 38 points ahead of Jalen Jarvis on 36. Pins went to Joshua Mansley, Jayden Lloyd and Philip Batty.

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Contributed with thanks to Tanya Bandow.

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This week’s 9-hole stableford saw Edwina Pettiford take first place with 22pts, second with 21 pts was Melinda Macleod and third place with 20 pts c/b was Scotty Hayes – Williams. 

Fridays 9-hole stableford saw Alan Clinch in first place with 22 pts c/b, second place with 22 pts was Ryan Kenny and third with 21 pts c/b was Tyson Flavel. 

Sunday was our Monthly medal 18-hole stroke competition, a great turnout which saw Adam Singleton in first place with a 46 NETT, second with a 49 NETT was Jimmy Miller and third place was Tyson Flavel with a 52 NETT c/b.

Nearest the pin was Sean Fogarty and Troy Pettiford. 

This Sunday 3rd March will be 18-hole stableford tee off anytime. 

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Green.

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Ryan Kenny and Chris Bartlett. Photo supplied

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Mackay’s home spun rugby league sensation Jaxon Purdue gave a glimpse to the
future with an eye-catching debut for North Queensland Cowboys in the NRL
Pre-Season Challenge last weekend.

Lining up at fullback against the Brisbane Broncos at BB Print Stadium,­ the
ground where he cut his teeth in the Mackay Junior League,­ the versatile
rookie showed his class in a 46-20 trial loss.

The St Patrick’s College graduate had the local crowd in raptures after
swooping on a loose ball and scooting 90 metres to score a spectacular solo
try in the dying moments.

Purdue, an emerging half who represented Queensland Schoolboys and the
Junior Maroons last season, is one of a batch of Mackay juniors contracted
to the Cowboys club.

Head coach Todd Payten had no hesitation in blooding the talented colt in
the Cowboys opening trial and tips a bright future for the Mackay Norths
Devils product.

Caption: Jaxon Purdue scored a 90-metre try for the Cowboys on debut. Photo credit: Ben Van Moolenbroek, Mackay Cutters

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Flurry Of Tries For Broncos

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The Broncos showed they will again be a force to be reckoned with in the NRL
premiership after finishing strongly with a flurry of second half tries.

Led by their general, Adam Reynolds, the super-slick Brisbane outfit
entertained supporters with superstar fullback Reece Walsh, dashing centre
Selwyn Cobbo and the promising Tristan Sailor turning in dynamic
performances to help their side secure two bonus points.

Mackay Cutters captain Sean Mullany impressed at hooker for the Cowboys with
his darting runs from dummy half and racking up 41 tackles.

In the earlier games the Mackay Cutters women’s team registered a hard fought
10-6 victory over the Central Queensland Capras in a BMD Premiership trial.

The Cutters led 4-0 at the half time interval and defended stoutly in a
solid hit-out.

In a further boost the Cutters re-signed Maroons Under 19s Origin centre
Libby Surha and former West Brisbane Panthers and Valkyries Queensland
winger Montanah Best in the lead up to the match.

Michael Comerford¹s new look Cutters toppled the Capras 32-12 in the
Hostplus Cup trial in a positive start to their 2024 campaign.

The Mackay team led 20-0 at the break and unveiled some exciting new
combinations in an encouraging performance.
 

Photo credit: Ben Van Moolenbroek, Mackay Cutters

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As I typed this heading, I accidentally wrote ‘wider’ instead of ‘wiser’, and had a chuckle, thinking that was perhaps a more accurate depiction of another year around the sun.

I’m not sure if we really do get wiser with age, I tend to find myself forgetting almost as much as I’m learning, but I do believe we have a deeper appreciation for moments of authenticity.

During my birthday week I was very fortunate to have my cup filled in many ways.

First stop: the Gold Coast, where I danced my heart out at a P!NK concert on my birthday, proving that age is just a number when you've got killer dance moves and a penchant for sequins.

Being an older parent does give me the opportunity to find my childhood joy again. At Dreamworld, I found myself transported back to my own youth, reliving the magic through my son’s unbridled enthusiasm. It was a reminder that age is just a number, and the true essence of life lies in cherishing each moment with childlike wonder.

And filling my friendship cup, the Company of Women luncheon hosted by the fabulous Jo from Kickass Women was just the inspirational soiree I needed to get myself back on my feet after a bout of gastro (thanks daycare). Surrounded by a squad of fierce, fabulous females, I couldn't help but feel like I'd stumbled into my own version of "The Golden Girls" (minus the retirement home and questionable fashion choices). Seriously though, this bi-monthly luncheon is a fabulous place to be uplifted by the success of other women around you.

As the candles melted away on my birthday cake (seriously, who thought it was a good idea to put that many candles on a single cake?), I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the journey that is life. Sure, there may be a few more wrinkles and grey hairs along the way, but each one tells a story.

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In a selfless act, Janine has brought joy to Katie, the lucky recipient of a P!NK concert ticket, with a thoughtful gift of spending money for her upcoming trip to Townsville.

Katie, who has been facing her own challenges, found solace and support through the airwaves of the STAR101.9 brekkie show with Scotty and Kaley. Janine, touched by Katie's story, decided to make a difference in her life by gifting Katie an early birthday present of money to spend on her trip, ensuring her 40th birthday celebration is one to remember.

As Katie prepares for her trip to Townsville, she carries with her not only the excitement of attending a P!NK concert but also the warmth of Janine's generosity. It's moments like these that remind us of the power of compassion and the ripple effect it creates, touching hearts and spreading joy to those among us in need.

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Caption: Janine (left) gifting Katie (right) funds for a Townsville trip to remember. Photo credit: STAR101.9 (Facebook)

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It is with heavy hearts that the Mackay community remembers the life and service of Kevin Casey, a dedicated former councillor whose impact resonated deeply within the Mackay community.

Mr Casey embarked on his journey in local governance when he was first elected to the Mackay City Council in 2004, later transitioning to serve on the amalgamated Mackay Regional Council from 2008 to 2020. His commitment to public service spanned 16 years, during which he devoted himself to addressing the needs of the community he loved. Kevin's tenure witnessed the passage of four mayors, six CEOs, and 27 fellow councillors, reflecting his steadfast dedication and enduring presence in council chambers.

Hailing from a family with a longstanding interest in politics, Mr Casey inherited a legacy of civic engagement from his uncle, who served as a Member for Mackay for 26 years. Throughout his tenure, his proudest moments stemmed from his ability to listen to and uplift the voices of the community. In an interview with 7News Mackay upon announcing his retirement in 2020, Mr Casey reflected on his most cherished aspect of public service: "The thing I most enjoyed was helping the little person, who thought their problem was a mountain, and in actual fact it’s only a little pimple."

As well as being a devoted husband and father, he was a driving force behind the Mackay Regional Council's sports expo, a unique event that he chaired with passion and dedication.

On Sunday, February 11, 2024, Kevin Casey passed away from acute respiratory failure due to stage four metastatic lung cancer.

A host of councillors paid their respects to Mr Casey online and at his funeral service which was held last Friday.

Cr Alison Jones served two terms on council with Mr Casey and said he will be sadly missed.

“Kev was a man that did what he said he would, always honouring a gentleman handshake. He led by example, and it was that, that I admired about him,” Cr Jones said.

Deputy Mayor Karen May has known Mr Casey since 2004 also served with him on council for eight years. She conveyed her condolences to his wife, Tricia, and their children.

“Kevin was a great advocate and champion of the North Queensland Games,” Cr May said.

During his 16 years in local government, he played a huge role in making sure our community had the opportunity to compete at the highest level that the games provided.

He was also a great community councillor always making himself available to meet with community members.

Cr Belinda Hassan didn’t serve with Mr Casey however has known him and his family for many years.

“Kev was the epitome of a community-focussed Councillor,” Cr Hassan said.

He served his community tirelessly, and never had a bad word to say about anyone.

“I certainly looked up to him as a role model, and admired the time and effort he put into everything.

“A good man, who will be sadly missed.

Kevin's unwavering commitment to the betterment of Mackay will forever be remembered and cherished by the community he served so faithfully.

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Caption: Kevin Casey (left) with local breakfast radio personality Rob Kidd at the last Sports Expo Mr Casey attended as a councillor in 2020. Photo credit: Mackay Regional Council

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When it comes to choosing your council representatives, there's a lot more on the ballot than just the typical talk of rubbish collection and road repairs. It's about finding leaders who can tackle the tough stuff while advocating for progress in creating a place where people are proud to live.

Over the past four years of working for the people of Mackay, Councillor Belinda Hassan shoulders an impressive number of Council-related appointments - a total of 17 committees and boards, with an additional four as a proxy. With her extensive array of responsibilities and a steadfast dedication to community service, Belinda embodies the kind of leadership needed in local government. And with a profound connection to the Mackay community as a fifth-generation local, she brings a wealth of experience and a deep-rooted commitment to serving her constituents.

Throughout her tenure on the Council, Cr Hassan has been instrumental in driving forward key initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of life for residents and fostering sustainable development in the region. One of her primary areas of focus has been waste management, where she has played a pivotal role in shaping policies and strategies to promote environmental sustainability. Serving as Treasurer and Council representative on the Local Authority Waste Management Action Committee (LAWMAC), Belinda has championed initiatives aimed at advancing towards a Circular Economy and Zero Waste by 2050.

Belinda's commitment to continuity in leadership recognises the importance of experienced hands to guide ongoing projects and initiatives.

"I firmly believe that re-electing a candidate deeply entrenched in the work is essential to maintaining momentum and driving positive change within our community," Belinda said.

She is committed to advocating for the rights and inclusion of individuals with disabilities in the Mackay community. Through her involvement with organisations like Crossroad Arts and the Special Olympics, Belinda works tirelessly to ensure that these individuals have a voice and access to opportunities for growth and participation. From her membership in the Zonta Club of Mackay and Sarina Lions Club to her role as Secretary of the Pine Islet Lighthouse Preservation Society, Belinda demonstrates a steadfast commitment to serving her community in diverse capacities. Whether fundraising for charitable causes, volunteering with the Mackay Men’s Shed, or advocating for women’s rights through her involvement with the Mackay Women’s Centre, Belinda's contributions embody the service that defines her approach to community engagement.

Additionally, Belinda is a staunch supporter of recreational fishing and its potential to boost tourism and economic development in the region. Her advocacy for the development of facilities supporting fishing tourism aligns with her broader vision for a prosperous and vibrant Mackay community. By leveraging the region's natural assets and promoting sustainable tourism practices, Belinda aims to foster growth and prosperity while preserving the area's unique environment and cultural heritage.

With integrity, dedication, and a proven track record of leadership, Cr Belinda Hassan stands ready to continue serving the Mackay community in her pursuit of a brighter future for all residents. For more information or to get in touch with Belinda's campaign, please email info@belindahassan.com.au or call 0412 421 451.

Authorised by Belinda Hassan, 14 Petersen Street, North Mackay.

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A total of $193,000 is available now to community and not-for-profit groups through council’s community grants program.

Funding is available for small equipment (up to $1500), community initiatives, programs, events and upgrades (up to $7500) and minor infrastructure and assets (up to $30,000).

This means grants can be used for everything from buying simple office equipment to infrastructure projects, including concept development, as well as the purchase of large equipment like vehicles.

Applications close on Friday, April 5.

Visit the website for application information: https://www.mackay.qld.gov.au/community/grants/community_grant_program

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