In last week’s edition, we honoured two of the three Debney brothers who served their country in World War Two - Corporal Harry Stanley Debney QX2390 and Private Douglas Ross Debney QX 2389, both in the 2/15th Battalion 9th Division. In this edition, we salute George Frederick Leonard Debney, Warrant Officer Class QX4606 of the Royal Australian Engineers.

The first of the Debney brothers to enlist, George was the eldest son, born 16/01/1910. He enlisted in the early days of the war on 03/11/1939 and was posted to 2/1st Field Workshop.

Initially serving in Tobruk, the workshop unit was divided into small sections and scattered about the waddies so that if one section was blown up the unit could still function. This was preferable to having the unit in one area and a target for the German planes to immobilise the much-needed equipment and skilled tradesmen to repair tanks, vehicles and guns. They had no planes and the German planes would dive out of the sun making them very hard to see. Tobruk was known for the daily bombing of the harbour, the Australian infantry grit, the British “bush” artillery and the tank workshops where holes were patched, blood was hosed out and the tank returned to service. George was instrumental in this tank work, no doubt due to his time served training in England on British tanks.

Not long after Tobruk, George suffered from meningitis and was isolated in a British hospital. George was paralysed down the right side and was told that he would never walk again - but he defied these predictions thanks to his fighting spirit and a Polish masseuse who did a marvellous job getting his strength and mobility back again. Such was George’s skill, when the infection had passed, a fellow soldier would visit and sit at his bedside taking notes on repairing and maintenance of the Rolls Royce Merlin tank engines.

When George returned to his unit, forces were under General Montgomery for the big push west against General Rommel and the AIF convoy drove west to El Alamein. The men of 2/1st Workshop were responsible for keeping the vehicles moving. The three brothers – George, Harry and Douglas – were together again.

By this time, the Japanese were in the war so eventually the 9th Division was brought back to Australia. The war in the Pacific was different from fighting in the desert and the 2/1st Field Workshop was divided up into smaller units with George being transferred to the 2/118 Australian Brigade Workshop. George served in Milne Bay, Port Moresby and Finschhaffen. He was involved with the 9th Division landings at Scarlett Beach in New Guinea; in the 2nd wave.

The 9th division returned to Queensland’s tableland area and were regrouping for the landing in Borneo and many older troops were downgraded medically. George was one of these. He was discharged on 18/11/1944.

Upon his return to Australia, he married Dulcie Jean Olsen and they had four children. George had returned with malaria, and this troubled him for many years after the war. Jungle warfare and the climate in New Guinea were detrimental to his health, especially the muscles which had been damaged by the paralysis with meningitis.

George Debney died in Nambour on 20/07/1963. As was the case with many World War Two veterans, he died young.

Postcript: On 17/04/1942, the father of George, Douglas and Harry, Lieutenant Douglas Debney Q224671 enlisted in the Volunteer Defence Corps (VDC) as a way of “doing his bit” at home.

Lest we Forget

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On November 11th we remembered those who lost their lives in wars.

Remembrance Day services took place in many places in the region, including Cannonvale, Bowen and Proserpine.

At the Cannonvale Remembrance Day service almost 50 were in attendance including Mayor Ry Collins, Councillor Clay Bauman, and Councillor Jan Clifford.

Treasurer of Airlie Beach – Whitsunday Sub Branch John Schweitzer spoke on half of the president.

“Today was originally attempted to mark the ending of World War One, the war to end all wars,” he said.

“However, our history has shown World War One was not the war to end all wars.

“Today, we remember not only those during World War One, but all the servicemen and servicewomen we lost and were injured during all wars.

“When you remember those no longer with us don't remember them as older veterans with a bunch of medals, remember them as young soldiers, airmen and sailors full of life with a smile on their face.

“We also ask you to spare a thought to all families left at home while their loved ones are serving in some country on the other side of the world.”

Social Pics
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Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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There are four new faces on the Bowen Tourism and Business (BTB) committee. Erika Schmid, Bernie Mackie, Jilly Paddon and Amanda Brockbank joined the committee at last week’s Annual General Meeting held at the Big Mango. The other committee members are Jenn Honnery, Chloe Bauer, Michelle O’Regan and Natalie Lydom.

Jenn Honnery will remain as chair of the organisation.

In her report, Jenn thanked the staff and the volunteers for their dedication, hard work and passion and she thanked the outgoing committee members.

She said BTB was in a very strong financial position and that the team had welcomed a record number of visitors in the past financial year.

More than 56,000 visitors were welcomed at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre on the Bruce Highway and the information booth at Bowen’s Front Beach – representing more than 150 people every day.

“The revenue we raise through selling merchandise at the Visitor Information Centre, membership, and the funding from Whitsunday Regional Council is invested directly back into the community through our ongoing marketing efforts,” she said.

“In June 2024, we sponsored a full 30-minute episode of Queensland Weekender, taking viewers on a journey through Bowen and Collinsville.

“We are proud to continue to promote Bowen as a holiday destination through television, radio, print and digital channel.”

More than 60 people attended the AGM and this was followed by a night of networking with music provided by Kim-Maree.

The new committee also met after the AGM and elected the executive for 2024/25.

Deputy Mayor Councillor Michelle Wright is pictured with the Bowen Tourism and Business committee for 2024/25 - Jenn Honnery (Chair), Erika Schmid, Bernie Mackie, Jilly Paddon, Leanne Abernethy (Manager and secretary), Chloe Bauer (Treasurer), Natalie Lydom (Deputy Chair), Michelle O'Regan and Amanda Brockbank. Photo supplied

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Long-awaited works have finally begun at Hamilton Plains, located between Proserpine and Strathdickie Road.

Shute Harbour Road is the only major route connecting the Bruce Highway and Proserpine to the Whitsunday townships of Cannonvale, Airlie Beach, Jubilee Pocket, and the port of Shute Harbour. This key road runs through Hamilton Plains, a flood-prone, low-lying area that frequently experiences closures following heavy rainfall.

The project aims to enhance the flood resilience of this section of road by raising its level and increasing the capacity of culverts. These improvements will help floodwaters drain more quickly and efficiently, reducing the likelihood of road closures during wet weather.

The project was secured through funding championed by Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox during his time as Mayor in 2019. However, until now, no work had been done, leaving residents of Cannonvale and Airlie Beach, for the most part, cut off whenever heavy rainfall impacted the area.

“The funding for this project, which I secured as Mayor from the Coalition federal government in 2019, has been sat on for too long by the State Labor government,” Mr Willcox stated in a Facebook post.

“Advice from Queensland Transport and Main Roads is pre construction was set to take place from 28th October to late December 2024, weather permitting,” he added.

Amanda Camm, MP also remains dedicated to ensuring the successful delivery of this project, after having advocatedfor it since 2019. She has emphasised its importance for the community's safety, especially with the wet and disaster season fast approaching:

“Once this project has been completed it will provide minimal disruption during wet season especially for school goers and commuters who travel for work between the towns preventing the roads being cut off.

“Just prior to the election it was announced that the Government advised they will start the flood immunity upgrade.”

As Amanda has only just been sworn in, she will be requesting a briefing on the project as to how it is progressing and to receive more details from the Department including a time frame on the project.

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Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox

Amanda Camm, MP

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Beautiful, affectionate and smoochy Tigger loves attention and cuddles. This bundle of joy came into the care of Bowen and Collinsville Pet Rescue after sadly being abandoned.

Whilst Tigger can be a little shy at first, once he is comfortable with you, he is the most loving boy and will want lots of your affection.

Tigger is great with children and is toilet trained, he also has been desexed, microchipped and vaccinated, so is ready to go to his loving home.

Do you think Tigger would be a great addition to your family? Email: bcpri_adoptions@outlook.com with your contact number and email address.

Sex: Male

Age: 12months

Breed: Ragdoll

Adoption fee: $170

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Can you give Tigger a loving home?

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For this year’s Breast and Prostate Cancer Awareness Day the Proserpine Golf Club have seen the wonderful community we have here in the Whitsundays come together and get behind the cause.

Event organiser Noelene Spurway said the community have come through with supporting the event, with many amazing raffle prizes.

“The community has been amazing,” she said.

“Filbys have donated a Cowboys jersey that is signed, I’m going to get it framed so it can be auctioned off, I’ve also had a Broncos jersey donated as well.

“Lots of people have promised me prizes and donations to the raffle, it's been really good.

“Our community rocks!”

The Proserpine Golf Club has held a Breast Cancer Awareness Day in the past but this is the first time the club has combined it with prostate cancer awareness too.

Noelene expresses that most people have been touched by either of these diseases and it’s important to make people aware of them.

One in six men and one in seven women are diagnosed with the diseases and Noelene also understands the importance of getting an early diagnosis.

“In the earlier stages, there is a much better chance of getting that full recovery as opposed to the late diagnosis. So early detection is best,” said Noelene.

With so much community support the Breast and Prostate Cancer Awareness Day is bound to be a great day out.

Best of all, you do not have to be a club member to join in on the fun, everyone is welcome.

What: Breast and Prostate Cancer Awareness Day

Where: Proserpine Golf Club

When: Sunday 24 November, 10am

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As the waters around the Whitsunday region begin to warm up, it's crucial for locals to be more aware of the upcoming cyclone season, which officially runs from November 1st to April 30th.

Preparing for cyclone season goes beyond simply knowing the dates—it requires careful planning and proactive measures to ensure safety and minimise damage.

Below includes some vital information on how to start getting prepared for cyclone season:

Before Cyclone Season:

1. Council: Verify your home meets cyclone standards with your local council or building authority.

2. Secure: Check the stability of walls, roof, and eaves.

3. Trim: Prune trees and branches near your home (with council approval).

4. Clear Property: Remove loose items that could become hazards in high winds.

5. Storm Surge/Tide: Know the nearest safe high ground and access route in case of flooding.

6. Emergency Kit: Prepare a kit with essentials.

7. Emergency Contacts: Display a list of important phone numbers.

8. Neighbours: Check on neighbors, especially newcomers, to ensure they’re prepared.

When a Cyclone Watch Is Issued:

1. Secure: Secure loose items around your property.

2. Fuel: Fill your vehicle's fuel tank and top up water containers, including those in your emergency kit.

3. Review: Review your emergency plan with everyone in the household, including shelter locations and evacuation steps.

4. Stay updated: Listen to local radio or TV for warnings and info.

5. Check on neighbours: Ensure your neighbours are prepared too

When a Cyclone Warning is Issued

1. Children: If requested by local authorities, collect children from school or childcare centre and go home.

2. Shelter Vehicles: Park vehicles under solid shelter

3. Furniture: Put wooden or plastic outdoor furniture in your pool or inside with other loose items.

4. Secure Windows: Close shutters or board-up or heavily tape all windows. Draw curtains and lock doors.

5. Pack an evacuation kit

6. Remain indoors: and stay tuned to your local radio/TV for further information.

When Hit by Cyclone:

1. Electricals: Disconnect all electrical appliances.

2. Shelter: Stay inside and shelter clear of windows and in the strongest part of the building.

3. Protect: If needed, protect yourself with mattresses, rugs or blankets under a

strong table or bench or hold onto a solid fixture, e.g. a water pipe.

After the Cyclone:

1. Stay Indoors: Wait for official confirmation before going outside.

2. Check for Hazards: Look for gas leaks and avoid using wet electrical appliances.

3. Stay Informed: Listen to local radio or emergency broadcasts for updates.

4. Evacuation Precautions: Only return when it's safe, using recommended routes and taking your time.

5. Be Cautious: Watch for downed power lines, damaged buildings, and never enter floodwaters.

6. Help, Don’t Sightsee: Avoid unnecessary travel; check on neighbors and offer help.

7. Limit Communication: Keep phone lines open for emergencies.

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With cyclone season fast approaching, now is the time to start your garden preparations. Norina Jane from WhitPro gave us her top tips for protecting your garden, and yourself during cyclone season.

The first tip Norina gives is to clear all vegetation at least 1 metre from all buildings. Vegetation close to your house can cause damage to the building in the midst of a cyclone as it brushes against, or worst still, smacks against walls continuously. Also worth noting, is that vegetation against a building is a direct highway for termites, something we all need to be aware of in the Whitsundays.

Norina also explains how it is important to clean out your roof gutters this time of year. Gutters that are blocked by leaf matter and other debris can have dire consequences during cyclonic weather, with excessive water being held in your gutters and back flowing into your home. Water will find “the path of least resistance”, so make sure all gutters are free of debris.

Alongside roof gutters, cleaning out drains and water ways of any obstacles that will affect water flow is also important. This includes buildup of debris such as fallen tree branches, silt, mud and any rubbish piles lying around your garden that you have been meaning to get to. Address these now before the wet season is in full swing.  Make sure that water will follow via its intended path.

Whilst assessing your garden, look up.  Evaluate trees by checking for signs of dead branches, sections of trees that are diseased or have been damaged by pests. One of the biggest causes of home damage during cyclones is fallen trees or branches that damage roofs. This often leads to water entering the home, causing internal damage that can be costly to repair and distressing to deal with during a severe weather event.

Lastly, clean your palms by seeding, removing dead fronds and, of course, coconuts. Coconuts can become dangerous projectiles in a cyclone.

It's always important to plan ahead. Make a plan as to how you will manage outdoor furniture, trampolines and any other lose objects around your yard if there is notification of an impending cyclone.

https://www.whitpro.com.au/

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At the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry Annual General Meeting (AGM) the new board for 2024 – 2025 was announced.

Introducing the Board: President Allan Milostic (LiveLife Pharmacy Airlie Beach), Vice President Vacant, Secretary Megan Taylor (Kapow Interactive), Treasurer Fiona Erquiaga (Smooth Sailing Finance Consulting), Jannah Baker (Scallywag Fabrication), Emily Harvey (Filby’s Motors), Anthony Nobilia (Airlie Beach Executive Services) and Asher Telford (Whitsunday Charter Boat Industry Association and SeaLink).

The Board is supported by the Chamber Liaison Dr Julia Evans and Policy Advisor Richard Evans. Together, they bring over 30 years’ experience in executive leadership, strategy, advocacy, member education and engagement, and operations in state and national peak industry associations.

During the AGM president Allan Milostic reported on activity and future plans for the Chamber’s strategic pillars of advocacy, membership, and business education having spent the last year bedding down new Chamber operations and communications.

“Our advocacy activity this year included opportunities for local and state government candidates to meet and address business community concerns, being appointed to the Council’s newly formed Economic Development Advisory Group, establishing regular knowledge exchange briefings across all levels, as well as joining conversations with Chambers of Commerce from Brisbane and northern Australian,” said President Allan Milostic.

“Looking ahead, in the new year, we will be convening a Chamber Advisory Group – a strategic think tank that will shape a range a Chamber initiatives such as the federal election, regional economic development, workforce availability and productivity, and our Whitsunday Business Conference. Additionally, a special Proserpine Committee will be formed to address specific issues and ideas.

“We’ve seen our membership base increase to 180 spanning all industry sectors. Together with Tourism Whitsundays, we launched the new and historic joint membership offer and have expanded the range of exclusive services and opportunities available to members.

“In the new year, we expect to see increased growth and membership engagement as we strive towards our goal of 300 members by December 2025.”

Following the AGM, a lively and informative conversation took place with two 2024 Whitsunday Business Award winners — Hall of Fame appointee and Most Outstanding Whitsundays Service Provider Judy Porter of Shiift, and Most Outstanding Whitsundays Retailer, Patrick Atkins from Airlie Beach Crew Clothing Co.

1 Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce Board Members Emily Harvey, Megan Taylor, Allan Milostic, Anthony Nobilia, Asher Telford and Fiona Erquiaga (absent Jannah Baker).

3 Courtney Quinn-McCabe, Jude Tyzack, and Joana Mendes

5 Sue Birch, Mark Henry, and Leanne Abernethy

7 Chamber Liaison Dr Julia Evans, Judy Porter of Shiift, and Patrick Atkins from Airlie Beach Crew Clothing Co.

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

At the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry Annual General Meeting (AGM) the new board for 2024 – 2025 was announced.

Introducing the Board: President Allan Milostic (LiveLife Pharmacy Airlie Beach), Vice President Vacant, Secretary Megan Taylor (Kapow Interactive), Treasurer Fiona Erquiaga (Smooth Sailing Finance Consulting), Jannah Baker (Scallywag Fabrication), Emily Harvey (Filby’s Motors), Anthony Nobilia (Airlie Beach Executive Services) and Asher Telford (Whitsunday Charter Boat Industry Association and SeaLink).

The Board is supported by the Chamber Liaison Dr Julia Evans and Policy Advisor Richard Evans. Together, they bring over 30 years’ experience in executive leadership, strategy, advocacy, member education and engagement, and operations in state and national peak industry associations.

During the AGM president Allan Milostic reported on activity and future plans for the Chamber’s strategic pillars of advocacy, membership, and business education having spent the last year bedding down new Chamber operations and communications.

“Our advocacy activity this year included opportunities for local and state government candidates to meet and address business community concerns, being appointed to the Council’s newly formed Economic Development Advisory Group, establishing regular knowledge exchange briefings across all levels, as well as joining conversations with Chambers of Commerce from Brisbane and northern Australian,” said President Allan Milostic.

“Looking ahead, in the new year, we will be convening a Chamber Advisory Group – a strategic think tank that will shape a range a Chamber initiatives such as the federal election, regional economic development, workforce availability and productivity, and our Whitsunday Business Conference. Additionally, a special Proserpine Committee will be formed to address specific issues and ideas.

“We’ve seen our membership base increase to 180 spanning all industry sectors. Together with Tourism Whitsundays, we launched the new and historic joint membership offer and have expanded the range of exclusive services and opportunities available to members.

“In the new year, we expect to see increased growth and membership engagement as we strive towards our goal of 300 members by December 2025.”

Following the AGM, a lively and informative conversation took place with two 2024 Whitsunday Business Award winners — Hall of Fame appointee and Most Outstanding Whitsundays Service Provider Judy Porter of Shiift, and Most Outstanding Whitsundays Retailer, Patrick Atkins from Airlie Beach Crew Clothing Co.

Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce Board Members Emily Harvey, Megan Taylor, Allan Milostic, Anthony Nobilia, Asher Telford and Fiona Erquiaga (absent Jannah Baker).

Courtney Quinn-McCabe, Jude Tyzack, and Joana Mendes

Sue Birch, Mark Henry, and Leanne Abernethy

Chamber Liaison Dr Julia Evans, Judy Porter of Shiift, and Patrick Atkins from Airlie Beach Crew Clothing Co.

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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The Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors celebrated their 20th year last Thursday.

A huge congratulations to all volunteers for reaching such a monumental milestone.

Coordinator Lyn Blanche said herself and fellow Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors, past and present, are extremely proud of this accomplishment.

The event was held at the stunning Shute Harbour Marine Terminal and all volunteers, current serving and old were joined by representatives from Tourism and Events Queensland, Councillor Jan Clifford, Councillor Clay Bauman, CEO of the Whitsunday Regional Council Warren Bunker and Mayor Ry Collins.

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Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors, Tourism Whitsunday Visitor Services Manager Dea Huvonen, and Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins

Manager Aviation, Tourism and Marine Shaun Cawood, Councillor Clay Bauman, TEQ Marina Neidig, Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth, CEO of the Whitsunday Regional Council Warren Bunker, Mayor Ry Collins, TEQ Kim McConnie, Director of Commercial Business Craig Turner, and TEQ Josh Green

Councillor Jan Clifford and Whitsunday Regional Council Manager Aviation, Tourism and Marine Shaun Cawood

Zak Kelly, Emma Murray, and Ross Courtenay

Geoff Smith, Celia Smith, and Robert Woodham

Allan Milostic and Linda Richardson

Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors Coordinator Lyn Blanche, and Tourism Whitsunday Visitor Services Manager Dea Huvonen

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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The Pioneer-Burdekin Pumped Hydro Energy Storage Project, once a key part of Queensland’s energy future, has officially been scrapped by the newly-elected LNP Government. After releasing a detailed report into the project’s feasibility, Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie confirmed it was neither financially viable nor environmentally sustainable, citing an overwhelming $36 billion cost. For many local residents, the decision brought a sense of relief after years of uncertainty, with concerns about transparency and community consultation now coming to light. As Mr Bleijie put it, “Queenslanders were kept in the dark.” The LNP now looks to shift its focus to smaller, more feasible energy solutions for the state.

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton, Queensland Premier David Crisafulli and Glen Kelly spoke to locals in Eungella last weekend to confirm the Pioneer-Burdekin Pumped Hydro scheme would not proceed. Photo supplied

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LNP Confirms Pioneer-Burdekin Pumped Hydro Project Axed

The newly-elected State Government has officially confirmed that the Pioneer-Burdekin Pumped Hydro Energy Storage Project will not proceed, following the release of the project’s Detailed Analytical Report.
The report highlighted that the proposed project was deemed not financially viable and not environmentally appropriate, with significant concerns raised about the lack of community consultation. Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie said that the analysis revealed that the estimated cost of the project would have imposed a staggering $15,653 burden on each Queensland household, contributing to the total projected cost of approximately $36 billion—an amount that he said the previous government had not disclosed during its campaign.
Mr Bleijie addressed these concerns at a press conference held in Mackay on Tuesday November 5, and said, “Steven Miles during the election campaign refused to release the costings of the Pioneer-Burdekin Pumped Hydro scheme, and now we reveal that it was a $36 billion project.
“Not only that, the government’s own report says it was not commercially viable. It didn't stack up and recommended it not proceed.
“The Labor government had a lot of questions to answer. How is it that the Liberal National Party government within 48 hours of forming government was able to ascertain that the project was not commercially viable and cost $36 billion?”
Newly elected Member for Mackay, Nigel Dalton echoed Mr Bleijie's sentiments in Mackay, reflecting on the emotional response from the community following the announcement.
“It was a relief to hear the news,” he shared.
"Just a few days ago, I was with Premier David Crisafulli up in Eungella, witnessing incredibly emotional scenes as residents of Netherdale, Eungella, and Finch Hatton learned that the pumped hydro project would not go ahead. For many, it was a moment of relief, and they finally felt as though their voices had been heard and their concerns valued once again.
“There were emotions which I had rarely seen when there’s an announcement from a politician.
“This is actual politics in our regions.”
The LNP said that the report also indicated that the project could not be built in time to meet Queensland’s emissions targets, highlighting a need for a shift in focus.
“We want to explore smaller pumped hydro projects that can be delivered without burdening the taxpayer,” Mr Bleijie remarked.
“It’s crucial that we look for viable solutions that work for our communities and our environment.”
As the LNP government moves forward, it aims to resettle communities impacted by the project’s halt and support local businesses.
“We want to resettle those communities,” Mr Bleijie said.
“We want businesses that are struggling to thrive again and people back in their communities to support those local businesses.”
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‍Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie and Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton held a press conference in Mackay on Tuesday to confirm the Pioneer-Burdekin Pumped Hydro Energy Storage Project would not proceed. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Cancer brings with it a profound sense of uncertainty, a reality that can feel overwhelming at times. Each stage of this journey, from the jarring moment of diagnosis to the draining side effects of chemotherapy, presents its own unique challenges. Now, as I await my PET scan results just one day before my next round of chemotherapy, I find myself in a particularly daunting moment, grappling with the weight of what those results may bring.
By the time this paper goes to print, I’ll know the outcome, and I’ll have had a couple of days to process it. There’s really no in-between, either the news will be good, or I’ll be bracing myself for the next round of obstacles. Regardless of the results, treatment will continue; chemotherapy number seven will be on the horizon, potentially with adjustments if things haven’t gone the way we hope.
Each time I sit in that chair, my port accessed with a deep breath and a long needle, I feel the side effects take hold as the chemo enters my bloodstream yet I remind myself I’m not alone in this battle. Every three weeks, I’m surrounded by other brave patients in oncology, all of us sharing silent looks that speak volumes. We understand each other in a way others might not, knowing nods that acknowledge the exhaustion, the fear, and the determination we all carry. Though our paths differ, many of the hopes, fears, and challenges overlap. My own journey is unique in many ways, as is every cancer patient’s journey, but the struggles resonate across the room.
What differs for me, is that I’m fortunate to have this platform to share it. I write about my journey to highlight both the unique aspects of my experience and the common threads that bind us as cancer patients. Each path is distinct, yet there are universal truths that resonate within our stories.
Bridgeen Doherty, an ambassador for the Trudy Crowley Foundation who is under palliative care, has brought us all powerful advice: “Know your body, know your normal.” If something doesn’t feel right, keep asking until you get the answers you deserve. The difference time makes is immeasurable. If my own questions had been answered sooner, perhaps I wouldn’t be sitting here undergoing chemotherapy.
When it comes to "knowing your normal," sometimes it's the small, seemingly insignificant moments that can be the most telling. I think of stories like that of Ailsa Millewski, a dedicated nurse who spent years caring for others, but whose own health issues first became apparent in the most ordinary of ways, forgetting a simple recipe she’d cooked hundreds of times before. One evening, she found herself standing in her kitchen, unable to remember how to finish a chicken stir-fry. For her husband Gary, that moment was a clear sign that something wasn’t right. It took until the end of that year to work out that Ailsa had developed a tumour in her adrenal glands, but a biopsy and PET scan revealed it was already a stage 3 carcinoma and had spread to her spine.
Tragically, Ailsa passed away in the very same palliative care unit where she had once provided compassionate care for so many patients. Her legacy lives on through her family and friends, and the story of her journey is a powerful reminder of how even the smallest changes in our health can signify something more. You can read this deeply emotional story on page 9.
Ultimately, many of us have the same goal, to reach the day we can ring the ‘all clear’ bell, signalling the end of treatment and the start of hope for a brighter tomorrow.
That’s the sound I long to hear.
Amanda

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The waterfall and slide at the Bluewater Lagoon has been temporarily closed due to a water pump failure.

A new pump has been ordered and will be installed as soon as it arrives.

Mackay Regional Council aims to have the slide back in action by Saturday, December 14, just in time for the summer break.

Council apologises for any inconvenience caused and appreciates your understanding while they complete these essential repairs.

The rest of the lagoon will be unaffected by the repairs and will continue to operate as normal.

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The Bluewater Lagoon slide is temporarily closed. Photo credit: Mackay Regional Council

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A snorkelling trip turned into a high-stakes rescue when a woman in her 50s was bitten by a shark approximately 200 kilometres off the Mackay coast. On October 30, around 4:30pm, the Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) received an urgent call reporting the woman had sustained severe lacerations to her lower leg, requiring immediate first aid and a coordinated rescue effort.

The first responders on board acted swiftly, applying a compression bandage to control the bleeding, which proved essential for stabilising her condition throughout the 10-hour journey to Mackay.

Shane Tucker, QAS Senior Operations Supervisor for the Mackay District, commended the quick thinking, saying it was “absolutely critical that first aid was done and done well.” He added, “Given that they’ve left the bandage on the patient throughout the whole incident… hats off to their first aids on scene.”

The remote location posed significant challenges, demanding a complex, coordinated response. The Royal Australian Navy vessel HMAS Warramunga, which was nearby, was mobilised to assist, arriving around 9:30pm to provide medical support and prepare the woman for transfer.

“Being 200km out was quite a coordinated effort from all services,” Tucker noted. The operation involved precise communication between QAS, clinical teams, and Navy personnel to ensure the patient’s safe and timely transport.

The woman, who remained conscious throughout, reported that the bite caused two deep lacerations, each about 30 centimetres long, on her lower leg.

“The patient was stable and responsive, despite experiencing significant pain,” said Tucker, mentioning that she was likely in shock given the trauma of the encounter.

When HMAS Warramunga arrived at Mackay Harbour around 12:45am, paramedics took over, transporting her to Mackay Base Hospital for further treatment.  

Reflecting on the rescue, Tucker once again acknowledged the teamwork and precision displayed by all emergency services involved.

“Obviously being quite a distance away there was quite an extensive co-ordination to retrieve this patient,” he remarked.

Details about the shark remain unknown, as neither its species nor its size was observed following the incident. Reports indicate that the attack occurred near a reef roughly 200 kilometres offshore. Addressing questions about the specific location of the attack, Tucker explained, “Unfortunately, we don't know too much of that in detail…particularly as it was so far off the coast…we are just concentrating on the patient and her injuries.”

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QAS was notified at 4.30pm on October 30, that a woman in her 50s had sustained lacerations to her lower leg from a shark bite while snorkelling about 200 kilometres off the coast. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Take a moment to think about the people around you, the quiet achievers, the volunteers who go the extra mile, the sportspeople pushing their limits, and the local legends making a real difference. Now is your chance to shine a light on their extraordinary efforts, and this year, a powerful new category has been added shining a light on inclusion.
Now is the time to nominate residents for the 2025 Australia Day Awards.
Mayor Greg Williamson said there was a new award category this year – the Brenden Borellini Access and Inclusion Achievement Award.
“This award honours individuals or groups who have gone above and beyond in their efforts to remove barriers, implement innovative solutions and advocate for the rights and needs of those who may be experiencing disability and/or mobility and access concerns,” Mayor Williamson said.
“This new award is named in honour of Brenden Borellini, who was the Mackay region 2021 Arts and Culture Award winner but was also Young Australian of the Year in 1989,” he said.
“Brenden broke down the boundaries of what was thought possible for someone who was deaf and blind.
“He was an actor, workshop facilitator, photographer and researcher, and he was strong advocate for people with disability and those that use alternate communication.
“Brenden passed away this year, and with his family’s blessing, we have introduced this award to celebrate those who follow in his footsteps as champions of access and inclusion.”
Nominations are also now open for the following categories: Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, Arts and Culture, Environmental Achievement, Lori Burgess Community Volunteer, Community Group, Senior Sports and Young Sports Award.
Mayor Williamson said there had been so many tremendous nominations last year and our region was extremely lucky to have so many amazing groups and individuals that stepped up for our community.
“We had 183 nominations across the eight categories and this year we’d love to get to 200,” he said.
He said nominating someone for an Australia Day Award took just minutes and was as simple as filling out a nomination form on council’s website or grabbing a hard copy at council’s customer service centres.
“One thing that every nominee says each year is just how much it means to them to be nominated and recognised for the work they do,” he said.
“If there’s someone you know who goes above and beyond for our community or is achieving great things, then please recognise them today with a nomination.”
Nominations close January 5, 2025.
Online nominations can be found at mackay.qld.gov.au/australiaday
All award winners and nominees will be recognised at a special awards ceremony at the MECC on Saturday, January 25, 2025.
The Australia Day Awards are proudly sponsored by P. Comino and Sons and Tropical Exposure and are supported by Triple M and 7NEWS Mackay.

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Peter Reedman was named the 2024 Mackay Regional Council Citizen of the Year due to his unwavering dedication to junior rugby union in the Mackay region.  
 
There is a new award named in honour of the late Brenden Borellini (pictured with Mayor Greg Williamson and his late mother Marlene 'Merle' Mitchell). Photos supplied: Mackay Regional Council  

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