The team at award-winning Airlie Beach boat and yacht hire service, Whitsunday Escape, is throwing support behind ‘Team Whitsundays Dancing CEOs’ fundraising initiatives by donating an epic charter experience to the cause.

General Manager, Jaclyn Watson, announced at the Cocktails for a Cause event that proceeds from the company’s annual charity raffle for a luxury five-night Whitsunday charter, will be donated to WLSQ through the Team Whitsundays Dancing CEOs campaign.

“This cause holds deep significance for our team, as domestic violence is an issue that casts a long shadow over all communities, affecting individuals, children, families and workplaces,” Ms Watson said.

“By purchasing a ticket to our raffle, you’re not only entering for a chance to win an unforgettable holiday, but you’re also helping to fund vital services that support and empower women and children across Queensland,” she said.

“Only 1000 tickets are available so this will sell out!”

Tickets cost $50 each, with the getaway aboard the stunning, brand-new Longreach 44 Power Catamaran, ‘Bella Luna’, valued at $13,750.

To purchase tickets, visit www.raffletix.com.au/whitsundayluxury2025.

The winner will be drawn and announced at the Team Whitsundays Dancing CEOs Charity Gala on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at the Shute Harbour Maritime Terminal.

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Katelyn Aslett-Collins, Julie Telford, Beth Sutherland, Jaclyn Watson, Kate Purdie, Alice Harriott and Candice Crossley launching the Whitsunday Escape luxury charter raffle for WLSQ. Photo by Andrew Pattinson, Vampp Photography

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Great things happen when women support women.

This was abundantly evident among the 125 Whitsunday women who stepped out in support of Women’s Legal Service Queensland (WLSQ) at The Garden Bar in Airlie Beach last Friday afternoon.

Together with a humbling array of local businesses providing services, donations and raffle prizes for the ‘Team Whitsundays Dancing CEOs’ event, this powerhouse collective raised a whopping $12,000-plus in just four short hours of fun, camaraderie and friendship.

WLSQ Ambassador and Team Whitsundays Mentor, Katelyn Aslett-Collins, said examples of generosity and kindness like this were among the reasons she was proud to have brought the organisation’s flagship fundraiser to the region, with high hopes of achieving outcomes specifically tailored to regional women.

“The work WLSQ does is about breaking the cycle of domestic violence in our communities and while we know this is a prevalent issue in regional and remote areas like ours, statistically fewer regional women are currently accessing their services,” Ms Aslett-Collins said.

“We need women here and in other remote areas of Queensland to know there is a statewide helpline where they can get free, legal advice, on a range of issues, including financial abuse, coercive control and child support matters – and ultimately for me, increasing access for regional women to WLSQ’s on-the-ground outreach services is also an end goal,” she said.

“In the meantime, the message is that if you yourself, or someone you know is in need of free, confidential, anonymous, wrap-around services and support, please pick up the phone and call the WLSQ Helpline on 1800 957 957.”

The team at award-winning Airlie Beach boat and yacht hire service, Whitsunday Escape, is backing this message, with General Manager, Jaclyn Watson, announcing at Friday’s event that proceeds from the company’s annual charity raffle for a luxury five-night Whitsunday charter, will be donated to WLSQ through the Team Whitsundays Dancing CEOs campaign.

“This cause holds deep significance for our team, as domestic violence is an issue that casts a long shadow over all communities, affecting individuals, children, families and workplaces,” Ms Watson said.

“By purchasing a ticket to our raffle, you’re not only entering for a chance to win an unforgettable holiday, but you’re also helping to fund vital services that support and empower women and children across Queensland,” she said.

“Only 1000 tickets are available so this will sell out!”

Tickets cost $50 each, with the getaway aboard the stunning, brand-new Longreach 44 Power Catamaran, ‘Bella Luna’, valued at $13,750.

To purchase tickets, visit www.raffletix.com.au/whitsundayluxury2025.

The winner will be drawn and announced at the Team Whitsundays Dancing CEOs Charity Gala on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at the Shute Harbour Maritime Terminal.  

On behalf of her fellow Team Whitsundays Dancing CEOs, Kate Purdie (Coral Sea Marina), Julie Telford (SeaLink Whitsundays), Alice Harriott (Whitsunday Family Dental), and herself, Whitsunday Transit’s Candice Crossley extended a heartfelt “thank you” to the team at Whitsunday Escape and everyone who made Friday’s fundraiser a sellout success.

“It was thanks to the generosity of Mandy and Penny Coles and their team at The Garden Bar that so much of the ticket price could go directly to WLSQ, with additional support from Wilmar Sugar, Whitsunday Entertainment, Andrew Pattinson of Vampp Photography, Sophie Camm, and all the businesses who donated prizes for our raffles,” she said.

“We’re asking people to please follow our Team Whitsundays Dancing CEOs Facebook Page, which is where we’re sharing all our ‘Thank You’ tributes and also details of our upcoming events.”

Team Whitsundays is the first regional team to ever participate in the Dancing CEOs initiative, culminating in a dance contest at Brisbane City Hall on May 31, 2025.

To donate directly to their campaign, visit https://www.dancingceos.com.au/kate-purdie-julie-telford-candice-crossley-dr-alice-harriott.

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125 Whitsunday Women stepped out for WLSQ at Christmas Cocktails for a Cause. Photo by Andrew Pattinson, Vampp Photography

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Hi Everyone,
It's crazy to think that this time six months ago I moved from Sydney to the Whitsundays to start my new life out here all on my own.
I remember how I felt at the time, and the day before I was leaving, worried about making new friends, sad about leaving the friends I had made in Sydney, and apprehensive about whether this regional area would be for me.
Despite the fear, deep down I was excited to see where this new path would lead.
Now, fast-forward six months from the nervous Ruth, who was unsure about the future, I have completely changed. Gained in confidence and grown as a person. I have made friends for life, developed skills in my journalism career, had experiences I never thought I would, alongside meeting so many inspiring people in the community.
My friends have played a huge role in making my experience in the Whitsundays so special. They've supported me through the highs and the lows and even accepted my love for watching endless shark documentaries (much to their dismay!).
I'm deeply grateful for them, and I know that if I had stayed in the place I was in Sydney, I would never have had the chance to meet such amazing people.
Here’s to many more months of growth, change, and new opportunities.
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Ruth
“When it feels scary to jump, that is exactly when you jump, otherwise you end up staying in the same place your whole life.” Abel Morales (A Most Violent Year 2014)

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One local resident who has been through serious trauma this year is a whole lot happier after receiving the news that Whitsunday Regional Council is organising her family to visit over Christmas.

Michelle Wardrope tragically lost her leg following a seemingly innocent fall on her driveway in April this year.

The mum of one received a gash to her leg when she slipped on her driveway and went to hospital where the wound was cleaned and stitched before she was sent home.

It was later that night that her leg began to throb, and excruciating pain ensued.

Her husband Ben raced her back to hospital, but her condition quickly deteriorated and she lapsed into a coma where she remained for 13 days.

Michelle had contracted a soil-borne bacterial infection from the run-off streaming down the hill directly above the property.

This caused the infection to spread rapidly up her leg and within 48 hours of the incident her leg had to be amputated.

For the past nine months Michelle has been adjusting to life with only one leg.

With limited government support, her husband has relinquished his business to be her full-time carer.

When Mayor Ry Collins discovered the family’s battle he pledged to help and collaborated with the Whitsunday Coast Airport team, Jetstar, Cruise Whitsundays and at Hotel Group to bring Michelle’s brother, sister-in-law and niece to the Whitsundays for a pre-Christmas reunion.  

“You inspire us all and we are so proud to have you here as part of our Whitsunday community,” said Mayor Collins.

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Michelle Wardrope is looking forward to seeing her brother and his family for Christmas. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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Proserpine Youth Space marked an incredible 25 years of making a difference in the community with a spectacular celebration last Friday. The event was bursting with energy, featuring everything from trampoline fun and face painting to delicious sausage sizzles and cake.
Locals of all ages gathered to celebrate this milestone, reflecting on the Youth Space’s vital role in the community. Mayor Ry Collins highlighted how, beyond the fun, the space provides essential support for young people facing challenges like mental health struggles, domestic violence, and housing instability, offering them hope, resources, and a chance to thrive in a safe environment.

Celebrating in Superhero style: Councillor Clay Bauman, Cath McManus, Renee Buckley, Mayor Ry Collins, Christine Young (President), Bec Murton, Vanessa Hartle and Christopher Mason. Photo credit: Ruth Puddefoot

Proserpine Youth Space Celebrates 25 Years

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Proserpine Youth Space has been a cornerstone of the community, providing children with a safe and welcoming environment to relax, unwind, and connect.
Last week, Proserpine Youth Space celebrated an incredible 25 years of community impact with a fun-filled event.
The celebration featured sausage sizzles, delicious cake, trampolines, face painting, henna art, and much more, bringing together locals of all ages to mark this special milestone.
Mayor Ry Collins also attended the event and explained how important Youth Space is for the local community:
“The mission goes beyond fun and personal development.
“For many youths that are facing serious challenges in our community, such as mental health struggles, rising domestic violence rates, drug abuse and housing instability, the youth base provides critical support and guidance, connecting them with the resources that they need to thrive.”

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Councillor Clay Bauman, Cath McManus, Renee Buckley, Mayor Ry Collins, Christine Young (President), Bec Murton, Vanessa Hartle and Christopher Mason. Photo credit: Ruth Puddefoot

find more images at: https://www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/proserpine-youth-space-celebrates-in-superhero-style

A brand-new artisan distillery has opened in Airlie Beach to rave reviews, producing premium handcrafted gin and vodka with a distinctly Whitsundays twist.
74 Islands Distillery, nestled within the stunning Elementa Whitsundays venue in Airlie Beach, is distinguished by its unwavering commitment to exceptional quality and craftsmanship. What truly sets it apart is its dedication to the art of drinking well, elevating the experience with the use of reverse osmosis water and a showstopping copper still in the distillation process. These elements enhance the purity and flavour of every drop, ensuring that each sip is a moment to savour.
So luxurious are their spirits that some of the Whitsundays' most renowned establishments have selected them for their cocktails or keep them stocked behind the bar. Among these are Eastwoods, The Garden Bar, Sorrento, Mika, Whitsunday Sailing Club, Red Fish, and Northerlies, all of which showcase the distillery's premium offerings.
The distillery places a strong emphasis on sustainability, which has become one of its defining features. By harnessing the power of the Whitsundays sun to fuel both their solar panels and distillery operations, and using eco-friendly, recycled packaging, their commitment to preserving the beauty of the islands that inspired 74 Islands Distillery is at the heart of everything they do.
Anna Allbury, Creative Director at 74 Islands Distillery and Elementa Whitsundays, shared the inspiration behind the distillery’s ethos:
“The inspiration for 74 Islands Distillery and spirits is the natural beauty and purity of the seventy-four Whitsunday islands and the crystal-clear water that surrounds them.
“The islands themselves create a unique and unforgettable experience for all who head out to enjoy them, and we wanted to capture that spirit in our offerings, so we set out on a quest to develop the purest spirits possible with a connection to the flavours of our environment.
"At the moment we're using reverse osmosis water in our distillations, but our next run is going to incorporate Whitsundays rainwater, which excitingly after initial testing, we’ve discovered is incredibly pure.  We're also highlighting locally sourced botanicals in our infusions, for a unique taste of pure paradise.”
The distillery offers an exceptional range of stunning gins, from aromatic botanical blends and classic London Dry to their smooth, refined vodka, ensuring there's a flavour to satisfy every palate.
While 74 Islands Distillery have just launched their website for a seamless online shopping experience so that you can enjoy the gin in the comfort of your own home, you can also head down to their first ever exclusive cellar door sale on Thursday 12th and 19th December 3-7pm at Elementa Whitsundays, the home of 74 Islands Distillery, to grab a bottle (or two) just in time for the Christmas festivities to BeGIN.

What: 74 Islands Distillery Cellar Door Sale
When: Thursday 12th and 19th December 3-7pm
Where: Elementa Whitsundays, 24 Mount Whitsunday Drive, Airlie Beach
www.74islandsdistillery.com

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Road users are reminded to take care when navigating areas where road re-sealing is underway at various locations over the next four months.

The $7.8M road re-sealing project commenced this week at the Whitsunday Coast Airport Road and will continue to be rolled-put on specific roads across the region until March 2025.

Council urges motorists to take care, stay alert and be considerate to others:

“Please note, that as re-seals occur, line marking cannot be completed for approximately three weeks until bitumen or asphalt has properly cured. Please ensure you drive to conditions, particularly in wet weather,” said a Council issued statement.

“We will endeavour to minimise impacts on the community with works being completed in small sections, one lane remaining open at any one time and nightworks occurring on highly trafficked roads.

“Please exercise patience around road works and ensure the safety of our workers so they all make it home for Christmas.”

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Earlier this week a new Red Bench was unveiled by Mayor Ry Collins at Shingley Beach in Cannonvale, as part of the Red Rose Foundation LGAQ Walk Against Domestic Violence campaign.
It is one of four Red Benches that will be central places for reflection in the Whitsunday region.
Other locations are set to include Lions Park, Collinsville; Case Park in Bowen, and Ken McPherson Park, Proserpine.
Zonta Club of Whitsundays oversaw the installation of the Red Bench at Shingley Beach.
The local not-for-profit organisation donated the seating as part of the Red Bench Project, a program launched in 2019 by The Red Rose Foundation.
In his speech on the day Mayor Ry Collins reflected on the bench’s significance:
“These benches not only raise awareness but also serve as lasting reminders that we must continue to stand together to fight against domestic violence and support survivors. Together we can Change The Ending.”
“This initiative highlights our commitment to raising awareness and promoting action to end domestic and family violence.
“We are proud to contribute to this effort and to stand in solidarity with the Local Government Association of Queensland, which encourages councils to take part in activities such as the ‘walk against violence’.”
“Through unity, compassion and collective action, we can build a future where safety, respect and dignity are rights that belong to everyone.”

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The Zonta ladies with Mayor Ry Collins and Councillor Clay Bauman. Front row:  Nikki Firmin from DV Safe Phone, Dancing CEO Ambassador Katelyn Aslett-Collins, Dancing CEO Julie Telford and Councillor Jan Clifford at the bench’s unveiling.
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The Zonta ladies sitting on the brand new bench.

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A spate of vehicle crimes over the weekend has prompted some local residents to reach out on social media to warn others and raise awareness.

Technology has worked in the favour of one Mackay business owner who was able to track his stolen car to the Whitsundays and use the on-board GPS tracking device to help identify potential future locations where he suspects car thefts might occur.

“We have followed it from Mackay to the place where it is now located,” said the post which was published on Whitsundays Chat.

“The reason I have posted this is the people that have stolen it have been scoping out a lot of your homes. As you can see in a screen shot. The idle time means they are checking your homes out in this location.

“Yesterday morning our vehicle was stolen from Mackay and driven north to Strathdickie and burnt. This is a serious loss to our business. These vehicles are not easily replaced because we are waiting 6 to 12 months for new cars.

“I have also screen shot the speeds that they were driving. 152 in one place 120 through Proserpine 60 zone. I don’t have that in email but is on file.

“This is scary to be honest, we have more information that has been passed on to the Police.
Please lock up everyone and be safe.”

Two other vehicles crimes were published on social media over the weekend, one along Richardson Road in Sugarloaf and the second on Gregory Cannon Valley Road.

A third vehicle was reported stolen from Arundel Court in Cannonvale and believed to have also been burnt out.

If you have experienced a crime recently please report the incident to your local Police Station.

If you would like to raise awareness in the community and alert others please email ruth@lifepublishinggroup.com and we can share your experience in the newspaper.

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This work vehicle was stolen from Mackay and driven to Strathdickie where it was discovered burnt out. Photo supplied

A map of the area the car was tracked, the orange sections show where the vehicle paused and could have been staking out houses

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The completion of the Whitsunday Healthy Heart Project (WHHP) was celebrated at Mantra Club Croc, last week with dozens of local participating businesses in attendance to commend the success of the overall intiative.
The WHHP is a four-year program funded by the Great Barrier Reef Foundation and Whitsunday Regional Council as part of the Reef Islands Initiative Whitsundays Project, aiming to drive and facilitate greener, more sustainable business practices in the Whitsundays tourism sector, including the reduction of carbon emissions.
Between 2021-2024, around 50 participating tourism businesses have entered energy, fuel and waste data into an online carbon calculator which has quickly calculated a carbon footprint and listed decarbonisation and sustainability actions that businesses may implement.
A broad network of motivated tourism businesses has been identified and mobilised, and the collected emissions data has provided a deeper understanding of the Whitsunday tourism sector’s emissions data base.
Mayor Ry Collins said, “Well done to all involved, past and present, including project coordinator Lee Hawkins who has done a great job bringing the industry together on the initiative. Eco-tourism is an area of great future potential and it’s assuring to know we’re leading the way.”
A steering committee was established at the beginning of the project and included representatives from Reef Catchments, Whitsunday Charter Boats Industry Association, Whitsunday Conservation Council, Tourism Whitsundays, Ocean Rafting, BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort, Cruise Whitsundays and Whitsunday Regional Council.
The steering committee provided guidance and recommendations, offered advice on methods to improve the project’s engagement with the tourism sector, identified potential subject matter for project workshops and steered the development of decarbonisation activities and advocacy in the region.
Steering Committee member, Adrian Bram, commented, “The Whitsunday Charter Boat Industry joined the Healthy Heart Reef Partnership because it presented the opportunity for collaboration on ideas and actions that can contribute to reducing our carbon footprint.”
Additionally, the WHHP has introduced and aligned over 56% of participating businesses to the Business Chamber Queensland’s, ecoBiz program.
The ecoBiz program has provided additional support to businesses in sustainable operations and will ensure that the WHHP’s long-term legacy actions can continue.
“One of the most inspiring outcomes of Whitsunday Healthy Heart has been the creation of the network of businesses from across the tourism sector.
“More than 50 businesses, from across the region, have come together to work towards a shared goal: a healthier Reef.
“This incredible network reflects the commitment of our community to preserving the Reef, not just as a natural treasure but as an essential part of our lives and livelihoods. This collaboration is something Whitsunday Regional Council can be truly proud of,” commented Reef Catchment Chief Executive Officer, Katrina Dent.
The Great Barrier Reef Foundation’s Managing Director, Anna Marsden, said we’re already seeing the effects of climate change in many parts of our Reef and the time to act is now.
“We’re proud to be working towards a carbon neutral Reef industry in the Whitsundays as part of our Reef Islands Initiative, which is protecting the habitats of the thousands of species of marine life that call the Reef home,” Ms Marsden said.

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Steering Committee

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A huge thank you to everyone who attended the combined Tourism Whitsundays and Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce end-of-year networking event at the Airlie Beach Hotel. It was a great night with everyone enjoying the mixed company and relaxed format, and to support the silent auction with all proceeds going to Eco Barge Clean Seas.
The event reminded us that the silly season is upon us. Are you ready? No matter what business you’re in, now is the time to prepare for the next few months. Regular staff may be away – Is your staffing mix right? Do you have a plan for stock and deliveries? Are you prepared for extreme weather events, disaster, or disruption? Always worth a rethink and review.  
It is also a time of closing off the calendar year. A time to say thanks to your team, customers, and our local community for their support.
One way to support your local community is to shop local. Every dollar spent locally contributes to our local economy – to jobs and building a vital, sustainable community.
In 2025, the Chamber looks forward to continuing representing business community needs and ideas, evolving our membership services, and expanding our business education programs.
The Chamber has released its 2025 event dates which will include a Meet the Candidate event for the federal election, and our Whitsunday Business Conference on Thursday 28 August 2025.
The Chamber Board and Liaisons will be taking short break during the festive season from Monday 24 December to Sunday 6 January inclusive. The Chamber Board wishes all our members, supporters, and the broader Whitsunday business community a happy and safe festive season.

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In the 2023/24 financial year, Whitsunday Regional Council hosted 28 events across the region, attracting approximately 8,127 attendees. These events brought the community together, providing opportunities for connection, entertainment and engagement throughout the Whitsundays. From cultural festivals and community celebrations to educational workshops and family-friendly activities, these events aim to enrich the community spirit and add vibrancy to life in the region.

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It was a privilege to be at Shingley Beach in Cannonvale on Tuesday to officially unveil one of four Red Benches in the Whitsunday region as part of the Red Rose Foundation – LGAQ Walk Against Domestic Violence campaign.
 
Council is installing four red benches across our region—in Airlie Beach, Cannonvale, Proserpine, and Collinsville—as a visible commitment to ending domestic violence. These benches will be placed at Lions Park, Collinsville; Case Park in Bowen, Shingley Beach, Cannonvale and Ken McPherson Park, Proserpine.
 
A massive shout out to Whitsunday Zonta for their dedication to supporting victims and survivors of domestic and family violence within our Whitsunday region.
 
Their tireless efforts have brought hope and courage to those in need, emphasising the vital role that community groups play in creating a safer and more compassionate environment.
 
Each Red Bench will include a plaque engraved with a powerful message: “Change the ending – Let’s Stop Domestic Violence,” accompanied by the logos of Council, Red Rose Foundation and Zonta Club of the Whitsundays.
 
These benches are a powerful symbol of hope, remembrance, and resilience and Tuesday’s unveiling brought people together to recognise an issue that affects every community, and these benches serve as a public reminder of lives tragically lost and our collective commitment to ending this devastating issue.
 
Tuesday’s unveiling of the Shingley Beach Red Bench aligned with the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, an international campaign that ran from November 25 to December 10.
 
This initiative underscored the community's commitment to raising awareness and fostering action with activities such as the ‘Walk Against Violence’.
 
The benches are intended to be more than a symbol, they represent a space for reflection and a reminder of the shared responsibility to create change. Through unity, compassion, and collective action we can build a future where safety, respect, and dignity are universal rights.
 
Congratulations Whitsunday Zonta, the Red Rose Foundation, and everyone who contributed to this initiative. Your efforts continue to inspire us all to work toward a brighter, safer future.

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Alita DeBrincat was recently celebrated as the Queensland Touch Administrator of the Year at the 2024 Queensland Touch Football Awards which was held in the Gold Coast on Monday 2 December.
Alita has held the position of President of the Whitsunday Touch Association for the past three years and was recognised as Touch Football Australia’s Volunteer of the Month in June for her continued commitment to the club.
“It takes every single member in our club to make it great, and we’re so lucky to have an awesome committee that’s passionate about what we do,” shared Alita.
“At Whitsunday Touch, it’s really simple – it’s about footy for fun, for everyone.”
Alita’s dedication and contributions to the Whitsunday Touch Association’s overall success within the community cannot be understated.
“Our goal is to make our carnival, the Whitsunday Cup, a must-do event for every touch football affiliate in Australia and we’re so lucky to have a great community here in the Whitsundays,” added Alita.
“It’s the perfect sport for kids, mum, dads, the whole family as it’s safe, non-contact, and there’s no training or travel required – even if you’ve never played before, we’ll show you the ropes – just come and give it a go!”
Alita has been part of the touch football community since she was fourteen years old, and she continues to draw inspiration from fellow Whitsunday Touch Association members to cultivate a welcoming environment.

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Alita DeBrincat was awarded Queensland Touch Administrator of the Year at the 2024 Queensland Touch Football Awards. Photo supplied

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As summer heats up in the Whitsunday region, so do your cars.
Leaving children or pets in the car, even for a quick errand, may seem harmless, but it can have serious, potentially life-threatening consequences.
Recently, Whitsunday community members have raised concerns on social media after spotting individuals leaving children or animals unattended in vehicles locally.
One Facebook post on the Whitsunday Chat group captured the growing frustration:
“Nothing is so urgent that you need to pay bills, buy food, or do chores to put your kids and pets at risk of heat exhaustion, dehydration, and even death.”
The Raising Children Network strongly advises against leaving a child in a car under any circumstances:
“Never leave your child unattended in the car, even for a moment. If you need to leave your car, always take your child with you.
Heat is the main risk for children left in vehicles.
Children can suffer from life-threatening heatstroke, rapid dehydration, suffocation, and even death.
Similarly, while it’s not yet illegal to leave dogs in cars, the risks are equally alarming. As temperatures inside vehicles rise, dogs can quickly become dehydrated, experience blood thickening, and suffer brain damage, organ failure, or even death.
Heatstroke can take hold in as little as six minutes, making it vital for pet owners to never leave animals in cars, even for short periods.
Leaving children or pets unattended in a car, regardless of the situation, is never worth the risk.

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