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

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

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

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

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

Helen was surprised by the award.

“I never expected it,” she explained.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Photo supplied

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

Some Chamber Board members responded. 

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

Are they a waste of time? 

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

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

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

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

Got a business question? Contact the Chamber to ask!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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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