The construction of the new Sarina Hospital is reaching completion and preparations are now well underway for a move from 1 Hospital Street to the new site in April 2024.

Executive Director Public Health and Rural Services Terry Johnson said the Sarina project team and others throughout Mackay Hospital and Health Service were working hard to affect a smooth transition.

“This is an exciting time for our Sarina Hospital staff and others across the health service who are busy ensuring all the many aspects of the new operation are in place as we move rapidly towards the transition to our new facility on Brewer’s Road,” Ms Johnson said.

“The construction phase is almost complete, and we then move onto the commissioning phase where we oversee the fit-out of new equipment, finalise fittings and furnishings and undertake staff training in digital technology.

“We look forward to providing an opportunity for members of the Sarina community to take a look at the new hospital before we commence operations at an Open Day to be held at the end of March.”

Sarina Hospital Director of Nursing Pauline Maude is the Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) project lead for the redevelopment.

“I find the project build fascinating,” she said.

“There are so many players involved – architects, consultants, the builders, project management in Brisbane and building and IT teams in Mackay.

“As we move into the commissioning stage, we will roster a minimum number of staff for the new hospital, for those few weeks before we move in.

“We want to ensure every single staff member has the opportunity to go into their new workplace before we make the final move. We are also looking forward to showing off our new facility to our community.”

Keep an eye on the Mackay Hospital and Health Service Facebook page and website at www.mackay. health.qld.gov.au for more details on the hospital open day.

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Executive Director Public Health and Rural Services Terry Johnson, Director of Nursing Pauline Maude, Mackay Hospital and Health Board Member Dr Maude Chapman and Nurse Unit Manager Tammi O’Shea

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Celebrating the 2023 major production Breathe In, Crossroad Arts have hit the jackpot after receiving five nominations in the Queensland’s prestigious Matilda Awards.

Crossroad Arts is a local Mackay based inclusive arts organisation, recognised as a leading inclusive arts practice in Queensland throughout the duration of 25 memorable years in the region. Those involved in the organisation are at the forefront of current shifts happening nationally in the inclusive arts space.

Breathe In is a disability-led, unique project incorporating poetry, live music and projection to reveal the fine line between both connection and isolation.

Co-creator Brenden Borellini says, “Breathe In is about survival and we hope the audience feel connected by me sharing my story as a Deafblind person and seeing how we can communicate and survive in the unknown world.”

This collaborative poetic piece is portrayed by star performers such as Georgia Cranko, from Melbourne, Victoria and Brenden Borellini, based in Mackay, Queensland. 

Lead performers and co-creators Georgia Cranko and Brenden Borellini give a captivating, yet at times alarming perspective of how people who use alternative communication survive in a world that can be startling, relentless and inaccessible.

Crossroad Arts received a pronounced nomination for Best Main Stage Production.

Co-Creators Brenden Borellini, Georgia Cranko and Alison Richardson received a nomination for the Lord Mayor’s Award for Best New Australian Work.

Alison Richardson was nominated for Best Direction.

Autumn Skuthorpe and Josh Notting received a nomination for Best Composition and/or Sound Design and Freddy Komp was nominated for Best Video Design.

Autumn Skuthorpe, CEO and Artistic Director shared her thoughts, acknowledging the great efforts those involved in the performance have shown by their underlining dedication, resulting in multiple deserved recognitions.

"Crossroad Arts is incredibly proud of Breathe In and that our work has been nominated for 5 Matildas, especially being a regional based theatre company. We are thrilled to see the stories of Brenden and Georgia celebrated and acknowledged by the wider sector and the recognition of their work is so well deserved."

The Matilda Awards celebrates and promotes the excellence of the Queensland theatre industry. This year the awards will be held on February 26th at Brisbane Powerhouse.

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Caption: Breathe In cast: Josh Notting, Brenden Borellini, Georgia Cranko and Autumn Skuthorpe Photo credit: Leah McLean Photography

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In a touching rescue effort, a group of four tiny kittens, estimated to be around two weeks old, have been discovered seeking refuge under wooden pallets at a local Mackay business. Responding swiftly, the team at Mackay Pet Rescue Inc made it their priority to provide immediate care, arriving on-site shortly after receiving a phone call about the situation. With much to their surprise, no injuries were found. The four tiny kittens were placed on warm towels and a heating pad. Soon after they were taken into the hands of a foster carer at the pet rescue sanctuary.

Efforts to reunite them with their mother were unsuccessful as the large number of feral cats in the area made it impossible to identify the mama cat. Despite the setback, the kittens were placed under the care of an experienced foster carer, housed in a large area where they will receive round-the-clock care and food every two hours for the next few weeks.

Expressions of interest for adoption will be considered once the kittens reach the age of six weeks, due to their fragile state. Their journey to recovery will be closely monitored, with updates provided on their progress.

Through the selfless actions of the team at Mackay Pet Rescue Inc and the unwavering support of their foster carer, these kittens have been granted a second chance at life.

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Rescued kittens sleeping on a warm blanket Kittens huddled up together in a box. Photo credit: Mackay Pet Rescue Inc (Facebook)

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When I was a kid my father would often hurl the accusation at me that I was “as slow as a wet week”.

Partly that was because fathers were less patient in those days but it is also true that the description would emerge when I had been asked (let’s be honest, in those days it was an order) to do something I didn’t really want to do.

Typically, that would be a boring chore of some sort.

I can’t remember rain interfering much with my activities, limited as they were to kick a ball and ride a bike whether it was rain, wind or shine, but it is true that a wet week during school holidays did seem to drag on forever and the saying “as slow as a wet week” made sense.

Wind the clock forward and when I returned to work in mid-January this year it was a wet week, but I can tell you it was anything but slow and boring.

I had half a dozen fresh listings ready to go and as soon as they were uploaded to the real estate portals and on the market the activity was intense. Just keeping up with the buyer inquiries was hard enough, let alone arranging inspections.

The inquiries and activity meant the wet week was almost moving too fast for me to get everything done.

On my first Saturday of open homes on the 13th of January, buyers were dashing into my properties drenched but unbowed by the weather.

They ran from their cars shielded by umbrellas or simply with towels over their heads, determined to see the properties. I got more than 20 groups at every open house that day.

I reckon I could have added an obstacle course - with nasty Raiders of the Lost Ark-type challenges involving trap doors, snakes and ladders to get past - and I still would have had good numbers.

My second week back was also wet, and it also whizzed by in a frenetic flash of buyer inquiries and multiple offers on properties.

And, as the year starts to roll on, it is clear we have a strong market at the moment with good buyer demand and their enthusiasm won’t be diminished by a wet season.

There are a mix of buyers - young people getting into the market, people moving to Mackay for work and lifestyle opportunities, older people moving here to be close to kids and grandkids and the usual array of people downsizing or upsizing.

But there is a new breed of beast in the jungle, one that was sighted over the past year or two, but which has now grown bigger, hungrier, and more determined … the southern investor.

Investors from southern states have worked out that Mackay’s relatively high rents and low sale prices offer an excellent yield for investment properties.

They see an opportunity to get a very good, positively geared return on a property that is much cheaper and more accessible than in southern markets. They are often willing to pay more than locals because they see the value even if they pay 10 or 20 grand more to get the property.

The mix of buyers and level of activity is creating opportunities for sellers because there is not much on the market … plenty of buyers but not many properties for sale.

I am getting phone calls from buyers’ agents from down south and investors saying they are ready to buy in Mackay and to let them know as soon as I get new listings.

The rules of demand and supply tell us that there are good opportunities for sellers right now because they don’t have much competition.

Just like a wet week, that will end one day.

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In a world where misleading and damaging influences can have a major impact on our community youth, children and young adults are often left soul-searching for their identity or trying to swim against a tide of stresses and are unsure of how to work through their hardships.

In times of despair, it’s important to be led in a positive direction of faith and encouragement.  

With this in mind, Christian communities are on a mission to help spread the good news that through God and faith, we can find reconnection, salvation and fullness within ourselves as well as the relationships we form with those around us.

Amplify is a Christian based conference program, created to inspire, equip and resource leaders who serve in ministry with children and families, youth and in schools.

The Christian conference sets an example based on the body of Christ as they guide and reconnect children, young people and families.

Last year, 52 leaders joined from 12 different churches and this year the Amplify Christian Conference will be held on Saturday the 2nd of March.

It will be followed by two sessions of electives with four live presenters from Mackay and other excellent pre-recorded electives. 

An opening session will commence with Dr Graham Stanton and keynote speakers will share their knowledge and experiences relating to the theme. Presenters at the event will include Kimberly Smith, specialising in children and family ministry as well as Dr Rowen Lewis, focussing on guiding youth and young adults.

To find out more, visit amplifyconference.com.au for more details. 

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

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

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

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

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

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Hi Everyone,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rach

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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By Paul Gellatly

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Eden and Jayden, staying at Club Wyndham. Photo supplied

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

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

It is a free forum and everyone is welcome.

The forum theme is Sustainability and Liveability in the Whitsundays.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Richard Evans

Mayoral Candidate

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

Ry Collins

Mayoral Candidate

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

Peter Hood

Mayoral Candidate

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

Phil Batty

Mayoral Candidate

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

Tony Price

Division 2 Councillor Candidate

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

Clay Bauman

Division 2 Councillor Candidate

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

John Finlay

Division 6 Councillor Candidate

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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