My professional qualifications, experience and community involvement include: Fellow Certified Practising Accountants, Bachelor Business Degree, Graduate Certificate Local Government. Employment: Manager SBB Partners (Accountants, Business Advisors) Bowen. Former Managing Director Rekenen Accountants. Council Positions: Chief Executive Officer, Director Corporate and Financial Services. Community: Current Treasuer - Bowen Community Centre, Bowen Collinsville Enterprise, Bowen Christian Outreach Centre. Former Bowen Senior Rugby League Treasurer, Bowen Community Council Youth Committee Chairman, Bowen High School Parents and Citizens President, Bowen Soccer Treasurer.

Community events bring the social capital of our communities together and facilitating/staging/involvement of events are projects that Council can support. A strong cohesive community brings prosperity both in economic and social wealth. Seek the input/strategies from the regional business groups for consideration and develop strategies conjunctionally to address or assist in implementation. Rates and charges are often spoke about and upon the review of Council’s financial strategies ensure the community is well informed of Council’s budget and financial position.

The community wants to know that the Council is being operated efficiently and effectively, maintaining the community facilities, future capital works, has prosperous economic and social development strategies. Community forums and sharing at business and tourism forums are avenues to inform the community.

Gain an understanding and review of the current financial budgets, financial plans of Council’s operations, business activities, and Capital Works Program and asset management plans in preparation of the budget for 2024/25. Gain a knowledge and review of Council’s Economic Development plans and activities to further business and investment growth in the region.

‍

With a long history in the Whitsundays, raising our family in Cannonvale, I’m well positioned to represent our community. A business owner-operator of 45 years (Cannonvale and Proserpine) I’ve gained strong communication and negotiation skills. I’m community-focussed and bring experience as a former Councillor. My decisions are made in the best interest of Division 2 and region. I’ve organised major events and been on boards for Tourism Whitsundays, NQ Games and NQ Economic Development supporting sustainable growth to the region.

In 2009 I suggested, and council now own a 96-hectare site at Mount Marlow. The proposed Master Plan at the time included a motel, caravan/motorhome park, individual sporting fields for athletics, all football codes, cricket, basketball, netball, tennis, Olympic size swimming pool, club house, grandstands and barbecue area. Sport/event tourism is big business and would attract plenty of State and Federal Government funding heading towards the 2032 Olympics. My plan included rural-residential lots to reduce cost and support affordable housing.

Secured local employment so people can enjoy the Whitsunday lifestyle. Infrastructure and support of tourism is key, so we need to create the planning environment that builds less costly homes or rental accommodation and a road network that can manage the increasing traffic flow. I’d encourage Council to increase tourism funding and chase government grants. Increased tourist numbers means more high quality accommodation, more jobs, more flights into the area and more funding for investment in community infrastructure and development.

I’d introduce myself to schools (the voice of youth is often missing, but important) and most businesses in Division 2 to get a feel for concerns and aspirations. I’d talk to Tourism Whitsundays to understand growth and management ambition. Using my experience as a long time Councillor, I can ensure that our projects are not only on the table but high on the agenda. I’d meet with councillors and staff to develop a collaborative relationship to deliver our projects.

‍

across year groups being friends, and of assisting each other to better themselves and excel at their chosen passions.

This passion for achieving your personal best, and of helping each other is strong in the 2024 College Captains both Primary and Secondary School.

For Secondary School Captain, Zoe Shepherd-Smith, she decided to become a captain because she’s always admired the captains, since watching them from Prep.

“I’ve seen a lot of captains, and they have helped me develop my own leadership skills, and helped me grow in confidence,” Zoe explained.

“Now that I have the opportunity, I wanted to step up and become a role model for younger years and serve the school. I want to support everyone and make an impact.”

Zoe’s a regular contributor to the school, consistently lending her time and energy to help in productions, school projects and extra curriculars.

“I just want to help out whenever and however I can,” Zoe explained.

“I am always happy to step in and give a hand where I can.”

Zoe is joined by Vice-Captain Paige Whincop, who’s involvement lends itself in the form of advocacy.

“I want to be a voice for the students, and make sure their ideas are heard and we are able to accomplish things that they wish for,” Paige explained.

“I want to be a leader that gets things done, and advocates.

“I want to show every student that we can have fun at school, and that it’s great to get involved with the school and to help out.”

A goal of School Captains is the further Whitsunday Christian College’s community outreach, extending off the great work the 2023 Captains began.

“We want to keep that ball rolling,” explained Paige.

“We want to keep getting involved in the community, with another food drive, and bring in the Primary School. We’ve got fun ideas too, like a bingo night, to help our fundraisers.

Kylie Langshore, Whitsunday Christian College Principal, said she was thrilled to see the new leadership team take shape.

“It’s inspiring to have two strong and confident young ladies take pride in our school,” she said.

“These ladies are working hard to contribute and create positive change, and they have already been quite successful and influential within the school community.”

Alongside Zoe and Paige are the two Primary Captains Oliver Webb and Elliana Langshore who are excited to instil positive energy and happiness in the College’s Primary School.

For Oliver, becoming a Captain is something he’s always aspired to do.

“My brother was a captain,” Oliver explained.

“He inspired me, and I am excited for what we can do.”

Elliana knew she wanted to become a captain since Year 3.

“I tried my hardest, and I want to be a voice for Primary School,” Elliana explained.

This pair have big plans for the College’s Primary School, wishing to hold the inaugural Whitsunday Christian College Talent Show, to allow each and every student the opportunity to showcase their special talent.

“We want to be able to give students the chance to get up and show off their talents and to encourage each other,” Elliana said.

Ms Langshore is excited for these two young students to stand at the helm of the College’s Primary school, and is pleased to see them bringing enthusiasm and excitement to the role.

“Our College is cultivating a culture of encouragement, and Oliver and Elliana are prepared and excited to help each and every student to achieve their own personal best,” she explained.

These Captains will be joined by other school leaders, along with the revitalised Student Representative Club, to promote the goals and values of the College.

Led by Year 12 Student Jackson Riley, the updated Student Representative Club will more closely work with the College Captains, to collaborate across year levels and college leadership with the informed opinions of students.

The year of 2024 is looking bright for Whitsunday Christian College, led by the confident and capable hands of young people, who’s enthusiasm is palpable and ideas are running rampant, ready to cultivate the College’s culture.

‍

   1. The Senior Leadership Team

   2. The Primary Leadership Team

   3. The Senior Captains

   4. The Primary Captains

   5. Senior Captain, Zoe Shepherd-Smith, with parents

   6. Senior Vice-Captain, Paige Whincop, with mother

   7. SRC President, Jackson Riley, with parents

   8. Primary Captain, Ellianna Langshore, with parents

   9. Primary Captina, Oliver Webb, with parents. Photos supplied

‍

Advertising Feature

Get ready to share and experience the many cultures that call the Whitsunday Region home, with the return of the annual Whitsunday Multicultural Festival.

Celebrating and sharing the cultures that are prevalent in our region, the Multicultural Festival is sure to have a large variety of food and drink, arts, music, and performances scheduled for the day.

Don’t miss the excellent cultural cooking, traditional dance, and amazing activities and celebrate our Whitsunday Way.

This year, the Whitsunday Regional Council is expanding its reach, welcoming community groups and organisations to register interest to be a part of the day.

To register interest, visit the Council’s Engagement Portal at https://bit.ly/Multiculturalfestival2024

SAVE THE DATE

WHAT: Whitsunday Multicultural Festival

WHERE: Bowen Foreshore
WHEN: Saturday March 23

‍

Performers at the 2023 Whitsunday Multicultural Festival. Photo: Supplied

‍

The 2024 School Leaders of Proserpine State High School have officially been inducted into their roles, at a special ceremony last week.

These students are now eager to begin their year of school leadership with prowess and confidence.

The School Captains, Reid Ogden and Alice Pini are two confident and capable leaders, and are joined with School Vice Captains Holly Perrin and Nathan Richards.

School Principal Mr Don McDermid said he looked forward to seeing all students thrive and reach their full potential.

“I encourage all students to use their leadership skills or simply be a role model to make a difference to those around them and help make our school a better place,” he said.

“Work hard to be the best you!”

2023 Graduates Sam Rogers and Shehara Bradely were also invited back for the special ceremony, where they were awarded for their academic prowess in 2023.

Sam was awarded Dux of the Year, as well as the Douglas Debney Memorial Bursary, on behalf of Wilmar Sugar for being named top male student for 2023.

Shehara was awarded the George Telford Memorial Bursary on behalf of Wilmar, for being the top performing female student of 2023.

Sam expressed his gratitude for the generosity of Wilmar towards himself and Shehara. He also acknowledged the support from the broader school community.

“The bursary provided will be a significant help as we embark on our first year of university,” he said.

“It’s a scary time, but support like this paves the road beneath our feet. It’s truly remarkable to belong to a community where local organisations like Wilmar are so personally invested in the dreams and pursuits of young individuals.”

‍

   1. School Principal Don McDermid, Reid Ogden, Alice Pini, Holly Perrin, and Nathan Richards.

   2. The entire 2024 Proserpine State High School Leadership team

   3. Sam Rogers and Shehara Bradely, recipients of Wilmar bursaries. Photos supplied

‍

The revitalised Whitsunday Writers Festival has announced their Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards this week, just in time for Valentine’s Day.

With substantial cash prizes up for grabs, the awards will recognise and honour the diverse and talent writers, while paying homage to the beautiful Great Barrier Reef.  

With categories encompassing writing, poetry, and book cover design, the Whitsunday Literary Heart Awards is offering up to $10,000 in prizes across four categories, with finalists in each category to receive significant recognition.

Festival President Karen Jacobsen expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, “Beyond assembling some of Australia’s celebrated authors in Airlie Beach, our festival aims to celebrate and champion homegrown writing and design talent.

“The Heart Awards epitomise our commitment to nurturing creativity and honouring the legacy of festival founder Gloria Burley,” she explained.

"We believe in celebrating the richness of Australian creativity in all its forms. The Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards are a testament to our commitment to recognising and rewarding the extraordinary talents within our community," remarked Karen.

The Heart Awards comprise four distinct categories, each offering a platform for recognition and celebration:

   • The Gloria Burley Award for Best Unpublished Manuscript

   • The Published Book Cover Design Award

   • Best Short Story Award (adult and under 18 years old divisions)

   • Poetry Prize

“The unparalleled generosity of these prizes solidifies the Heart Awards as a premier platform for Australian regional writers’ competitions,” Karen affirmed.

“Our festival stands as an example for recognising and rewarding creative talent, fostering a culture that champions the invaluable contributions of our artists.”

Complete details, deadlines, and submission forms are accessible on the Whitsundays Writers Festival website, http://www.whitsundayswriters.com/whitsundays-literary-heart-awards/

‍

For the past 35 years, people have been travelling to Bowen for the town's annual polocrosse carnival.

Polocrosse is a horsemanship sport that is a combination of polo and lacrosse and has been played in Australia since the 1930's.

The annual Bowen carnival will be held on July 27 and 28, 2024.

Representatives of the Bowen Polocrosse Club met with representatives of Bowen Tourism and Business this week to discuss the promotion of the 35th annual carnival.

Chair of Bowen Tourism and Business, Jenn Honnery said events like this added to the diverse range of activities available for our visitors.

"Bowen Tourism and Business is proud to support events that bring visitors to our region,” she said.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy, said all events provided an economic boost for the town.

"The Polocrosse Club is currently looking for sponsors as well as food vendors," she said.

"We are looking forward to working with the club to spread the word about the carnival so more people will come to Bowen and discover the many attractions in our region."

While the Club has yet to solidify their 35th anniversary celebrations, they are excited to welcome players, old and new, to the carnival.

“The Club was founded by just a few people who were passionate. The first President was president for over 20 years, before he took a step back, and a lot of the same committee are still on the team,” Jess Foster, a Committee Member of the Club, explained.

“We’re expecting big numbers for our Carnival, and our anniversary celebrations will be great, whenever we have them.”

‍

SAVE THE DATE:

WHAT: Bowen Polocrosse Club Carnival

WHEN: July 27 and 28 2024

‍

CHATTING ABOUT POLOCROSSE CARNIVAL: Bowen Polocrosse Club representatives, Jess Foster, and Jessie Russell (and young Mackenley Russell) with Chair of Bowen Tourism and Business, Jenn Honnery and Manager Leanne Abernethy. Photo supplied

‍

Over the last month we have been working with Tourism and Events Queensland (TEQ) and the Department of Tourism and Sport on marketing campaigns to help the region recover the losses sustained in early December and late January from tropical Cyclones Jasper and Kirrily.

There are several campaigns already underway or finished, including; 50 per cent off deals with Bonza that finished on 14 February, deals were available on Whitsunday Coast to Newcastle, Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast routes.

Also, in market is TEQs whole of state campaign, Unmissable Holiday Deals which is on sale in February and March in our key markets of Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne.

Also, Virgin Australia have just launched an airfare sale from Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne to The Whitsundays starting from only $69 per person each way and, to Hamilton Island starting from $85 per person each way.

These are on sale until Tuesday 20th February and travel periods are throughout March and May.

These campaigns present an excellent opportunity for inter and intra state visitors to get to The Whitsundays at a bargain price and enjoy a holiday outside our peak periods.  

Internally, we are putting the finishing touches on a campaign that will be in market late February – March and spike again in April – May. These two spikes on top of our baseline Whitsundays awareness pieces will help us to drive visitation in our off-peak times. It will also help all the Southerners to escape the cold winter for our slice of heaven in The Whitsundays!

‍

What started as a simple gathering in 2014, to bolster the relationship between the Bowen Cricket Associations’ wives, girlfriends, and mums, while raising important funds for the McGrath Foundation, has grown exponentially in 10 short years.

Bowen Cricket’s Pink Stumps Day has become a much-loved feature on the Bowen community calendar, an event that is widely known and regularly sees over 300 ladies attend, dressed in their best pink outfits to support the worthwhile breast cancer charity.

In 2019, with Club President Danny Borgh, Pink Stumps Day outgrew the clubhouse, and a marquee was erected to house all the ladies.

“This really got the ball rolling to make the event a bigger thing,” Bowen Cricket Association President, Seth McIntosh, explained.

Under Seth’s presidency, the Pink Stumps Day has continued to raise its profile and has donated about $10,000 per year on average to the McGrath Foundation, a feat that Seth is incredibly proud of.

“The Pink Stumps Day is a staple in our calendar every year, and something all of the cricket community looks forward to each year,” Seth explained.

Bowen Cricket Association also hold a memorial test in February, to honour the deaths of two local club legends, Ducky Lea and Harold Watts.

In 2016, the Harold Watts & Ducky Lea Memorial Shield was inducted as a trophy, and a competition was played between their two-representative teams, the Raiders (merged with the Bears) and the Bulls. This was played last week, with the Bulls coming out on top.

“And, in 2020,” Seth explained. “A Pink Stumps Cup was inaugurated by Harolds Watts’ son Lee Watts, who was president of the club at the time, to open up the Pink Stumps Match to all teams in the competition. For 2024, this will be played between the Bulls and the Chargers.”

Now, with the 10th Anniversary of Bowen Crickets’ Pink Stumps Day, Seth and the team are excited to welcome the likes of The McGrath Foundation’s own Glenn McGrath for their 2024 event.

“Having Glenn attend, it’s more of a gift for the community, to recognise the effort and support they have shown the event,” Seth explained.

The importance of Pink Stumps Day is well reflected in the attendance of the region’s ladies, who attend to support the cause, and to be informed on conditions such as breast cancer.

“This is a day of public education,” Seth explained.

“The party and celebrations are just a trick to sit the women down and talk about something they usually won't put much thought into. You don't get many opportunities to do something like this, so making it an education-first event is important to me.

“It’s a bit of balance of not boring the hell out of the attendees, and getting your message across, and we always try and get the balance right.”

Seth would also like to take this opportunity to thank the team who were instrumental in organising the event.
“I wish to thank Stacey Patterson, Tamika Lindner, and Hannah Altmann for your tireless hard work, making this event as great as it is.”

Bowen Cricket Association’s Pink Stumps Day has consistently placed in the Top 10 of organisations in the donation board Australia-wide, and Seth is excited to see the 2024 fundraising be one of the highest they have produced for The McGrath Foundation.

   1. Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox attending Pink Stumps Day

   2. The Ladies of Pink Stumps watching the Pink Stumps Match

   3. Pink Stumps, supporting breast cancer patients. Photos supplied

‍

For Karen Linich and Denise McCallum, becoming a McGrath Breast Care Nurse was an honour and a privilege, a decision that has allowed them to assist and support all breast cancer patients with quality care and upmost confidence.

Karen started her nursing journey at the age of 18, beginning her training in New South Wales, before she specialised in surgical nursing. She transitioned to clinical nursing and nurse counselling, primarily working within regional BreastScreen, where she excelled in the role for nine years.

In 2016, Karen and her family relocated to Mackay, and she picked up the helm of the Mackay region’s BreastScreen, before she moved into the role as a McGrath Breast Care Nurse in Mackay in 2020.

“I have a genuine heartbeat for people,” Karen shared.

“Being in the nursing role, my natural affection for people thrives, and my care blossoms and grows.”

Within her role as McGrath Breast Care Nurse, Karen works closely with the men and women in our region that are afflicted with breast cancer, primarily in the early treatment phase.

“When I look back on my career, I wouldn’t have thought I would work with breast cancer,” Karen explained.

“But now, I wouldn’t have it any other way!”

While she acknowledges that she cannot change the diagnoses, or change the necessary treatment, Karen is grateful for the influence she does have on her patients.

“I can’t change the situation, but if today, just today, I can make them feel that little bit better, that is the most important thing,” she shared.

“I am honoured and feel incredibly privileged to be a part of my patient’s cancer journey, demystifying the clinical information, as a listening ear, a helping connection, or providing tips for care.”

Karen is joined by Denise McCallum, who’s newer to the role but no less experienced. Having been a registered nurse since 2013, Denise signed onto the role as a McGrath Breast Care Nurse in 2023.

As McGrath Breast Care Nurses, Karen and Denise offer supportive care services, information, and resource.

“We are often a thread that holds people together, with their various specialist appointments,” Karen explained.

“We are forever grateful for the impact, even minor, we have on their cancer journey.”

Karen has attended the Bowen Pink Stumps Day since becoming a Mackay based McGrath Breast Care Nurse in 2020, and is always grateful to share her knowledge with ladies.

“Everyone has access to a McGrath Breast Care Nurse. Bowen is the northern end of our catchment, so myself and Denise service everyone from Bowen, Collinsville, Cannonvale and Airlie Beach, all the way to Drystart, Moranbah, Mackay and Saint Lawerence,” Karen explained.

“We are only as far away as a phone call.”

At the Bowen Pink Stumps Day, Karen and Denise will join the likes of Glenn McGrath, Mackay surgeon and Clinical Director of Surgery Mackay Base Hospital Dr Adrian Westcott, seeing Bowen patients in Proserpine Outreach clinics, amongst others sharing breast cancer awareness.

“We just want to be a speed bump in a patient’s health journey.”

‍

Breast Cancer Statistics

1/7 Australians will be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2024

57 individuals will be diagnosed with breast cancer every day in Australia

In 2024, 20,400 women and 217 men are expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer

‍

   1. Karen Linich, one of the friendly faces McGrath Breast Cancer Nurses in Mackay

   2. The McGrath Breast Cancer Nurses have helped over 127,000 families across Australia, since 2005. Photos supplied

‍

The Whitsunday Regional Council local government elections were delivered a curveball on Wednesday this week when the popular current Mayor, Julie Hall, announced she would not be running for the Mayoral seat in the next election.

Ms Hall provided a public statement citing her reasons for withdrawal were “putting my health and family first.”

“It has been a very hard decision and an honour to serve the people of the Whitsundays, I will complete my time as Mayor when the new council is elected and takes office,” she said.

Mayor Julie Hall will not be running for Mayor in the next election. Photo credit: Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper

Goodbye And Thank You

Julie Hall was declared Mayor of Whitsunday Regional Council in August 2022 and for the past 18 months she has served the local electorate with the goal of being ‘the people’s mayor’ and increasing the connection between the community and Council.

During her tenure she introduced the engaging face-to-face community catch-up sessions, helped to facilitate a resolution to fix the long-standing issue of the Shute Harbour Boat Ramp and been a strong supporter and advocate for the Whitsunday Coast Airport among other significant local issues.

She also hosted the record breaking 2023 Mayors Charity Ball, raising over $105,000 for two local charities.

“A big thank you to the community for your support and it was a pleasure to serve you,” read her public statement.

“Having been elected against the odds and against three sitting members whilst only living in the region for just over three and a half years was a strong message to Council that the community had lost trust in the Council and wanted change.”

“I would personally like to thank Deputy Mayor, Cr Gary Simpson who supported my role as elected Mayor with the utmost respect and integrity as did my committed personal Executive Assistant, Mardi Mathieson.

“I can honestly hand-on-heart say to the community, I have done my absolute best, I have worked determinedly for the people and our community, and I hope Council will continue my legacy to always acknowledges the voice of the community first and foremost.”

Deputy Mayor Gary Simpson and Councillor Michelle Wright both expressed their respect and gratitude for Ms Hall.

“I thought Julie did a great job and it was quite unfortunate that she didn’t get as much support from other people as she should have,” said Mr Simpson.

Ms Wright said that she wishes Ms Hall “all the best in the future.”

‍

Who’s Up For The Top Job?

‍

Councillor Gary Simpson: “I’m happy to put my hand up if need be, I’ll do it, but I think there will be a few good candidates come forward in the next few days”

Councillor John Collins: “It’s not for me, I’m sure some other worthy candidates will put their hands up”

Councillor Michelle Wright: “At this stage in my life with a young family it’s not for me, but it is something I would be interested in down the track”

Councillor Jan Clifford: “I’m contemplating it, but I haven’t made my mind up yet, I think the community will benefit in having me at the table so it would be a risk” (because a Mayoral candidate cannot also run for Councillor and if they are unsuccessful, they would be out)

Councillor Clay Bauman: “I think the role of Mayor is a very important job and it’s not a decision that anyone should make lightly, I haven’t made a decision yet”

Councillor Mike Brunker: Stated he would not be running

As of going to print on Wednesday afternoon, the Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) register had one official completed candidate nomination for Mayor which is Peter J Hood.

Any other candidates have until 12pm, Tuesday 13th February to officially nominate.

At this stage no-one has stepped forward to publicly announce, but it is expected more candidates will come to light in the next few days.

The Local Government Elections will take place on Saturday 16th March.

‍

By Hannah McNamara

In a splashing triumph of athleticism and adventure, the Mackay Triathlon Club set North Mackay ablaze with its second Aquathlon race on a sun-soaked Sunday. The air was filled with the energetic buzz of club members, from seasoned triathletes to spirited newcomers, all ready to dive into the thrill of the Aquathlon, starting at the Pioneer Pool. With courses designed to challenge and exhilarate, from the shorter enticer's scenic run around the Gooseponds to the pulse-quickening swim, to the daring repetition in the sprint distance, and even a mini kids race for the future champs, the atmosphere echoed with the laughter and determination of multisporters.

‍

Names from Left to Right: Theo, Luca, Jack, Issac, Leon, Ashton, Hayden, Georgina, Ameilia

‍

Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

‍

Splash And Dash With The Mackay Triathlon Club

‍

From club members with years of experience to completely fresh newcomers, The Mackay Triathlon Club kicked off its second Aquathlon race on Sunday the 4th of February.

The Aquathlon course includes a Shorter Enticer distance, which is a 2.5km run around the Gooseponds followed by a 300m (six lap) swim in the pool, then the sprint distance repeats the run and swim. Races for children aged 5-11 can compete in the mini kids race in which they do a 1km run and a 100m swim. With a wide range of categories for all ages and individuals, the Mackay Triathlon Club are hoping to welcome new members.

Club members Demi Caldwin and Cristian Smith shared their perspectives about the club over the years.

“We’ve done all the local events over the past three years and we’ve learnt everything about it since.

“It definitely keeps you engaged, and it’s social so it’s just fun,” Demi explains.

When asked if she prefers swimming or running, she said, “definitely running.”

Cristian had a similar perspective as he applauded the club's diverse event offerings and inclusive nature.

“Mackay triathlon hosts a really good event, they put lots of different events on for all different ages and categories here, everybody’s welcome, it’s awesome.” Cristian says.

According to Cristian, the weather has taken a favourable turn, creating a more enjoyable atmosphere for the athletes.

Members like Ben Croker and Jack Anderson also contribute to the club's dynamic. While Ben confesses a dislike for running and swimming, favouring cycling, he underlines the fact that he enjoys the triathlon as it trains him for bigger events.

Jack Anderson, a new-comer in the club says he hasn’t done many triathlons but enjoys the test of strengths and weaknesses that play out throughout the events.

What unites these eager participants is their steadfast dedication and resilience. The final race of the series will be held this Sunday (February 11).

To check out the Mackay Trathlon’s calendar, visit its page on Facebook.

‍

Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

‍

‍

Amidst the ongoing discourse surrounding the maintenance of our community's green spaces, Councillor Martin Bella's recent Facebook post struck a resounding chord. I don’t always see eye-to-eye with Marty on everything, but his heartfelt message, directed towards the resilient members of our council's outdoor crew, echoed how I felt about the online (and in-person) abuse these workers have been copping.

Marty speaks directly to the struggles faced by these workers, offering a glimpse into the harsh realities they confront daily.

“I know how you are struggling to keep up, I know you are doing your best in bloody atrocious conditions, “I know that the constant attacks in the media must be demoralising.”

"I know your loyalty in sticking it out and not leaving for higher paying jobs with air-conditioning," he adds,

“Keep doing your best like the champions you are. Stay strong and take pride in what you do. I have your backs.”

Marty’s post struck a chord because it reminded me of my own father—a hardworking individual who, like the lawnmower men and women, toiled tirelessly to provide for his family. After spending more than 25 years in the RNZAF as an aircraft technician, my father found himself facing a challenging job market. Undeterred, he took on the role of a street cleaner for the local council in Marlborough. Despite his expertise, he embraced the job with humility, recognising the importance of providing for his family, despite taunts he would receive while working.

Little did those people know he was also one of only a few people in the country who could fix specialty aircraft like a Skyhawk. Yet they only saw the ‘town garbo’.

This story serves as a poignant reminder of the humanity behind every job, urging us to extend empathy and understanding to those labouring behind the scenes. These men and women are doing the best they can to provide for their families.

After all, it’s only grass.

‍

Photo source: Martin Bella (Facebook)

‍

In an act of kindness, a volunteer from a local hamper organisation has announced the startup of a monthly giveaway for families in Mackay, particularly aimed at mothers, to lighten the burden of financial stress and give a helping hand to those who deserve it most. Realistically, all mothers are deserving of a pamper pack, but if you know a special mother figure in need of support, nominations are now open! The idea of the giveaway is to uplift those who are struggling, to remind them that they are loved, supported and valued.

The small but impactful act of generosity has showcased the kind nature of our community. Amanda Potter shared a post on Facebook, announcing a monthly giveaway from The Nurtured Village Hampers Mackay. Amanda is joined by Courtney Simpson in this new initiative. Shortly after, the comment section was filled with caring souls who offered additional services to add to the hamper packs, like; remedial massages, house cleaning, children’s hair cut services as well as cash donations.

As the cost of living continues to increase, many families are under a heavy load of financial stress. Amanda emphasises that they are in need of one-off donations and regular donations, whether they be financial support or physical items, vouchers or an offer of service. Donations can be anything from groceries, coffee vouchers, to massages, beauty products, flowers or anything that could potentially take the load off a family’s shoulders and make a mum feel special.

If you or your business would like to spread the love this month, visit The Nurtured Village Hampers Mackay on Facebook to find out more.

‍

Amanda Potter (left) and Courtney Simpson gathering a ‘bundle of love’ to donate

‍

Last week marked another leap into Queensland’s resources future with the unveiling of concept designs for a state-of-the-art pilot processing plant in Mackay.

Unveiling the concept at the Resources Centre of Excellence, Resources and Critical Minerals Minister Scott Stewart said FlexiLab would provide a dedicated facility for industry to test processing and recovery of minerals not normally produced.  

Rapidly growing global demand for a wide range of minerals essential to new technologies like renewable energy, is creating new opportunities for companies to develop new value streams based on different critical minerals.

Designed as a common-user facility, FlexiLab is poised to become a hub for helping prove the commercial viability of processing critical minerals such as cobalt, nickel, zinc, vanadium, molybdenum, silica, alumina and rare earth elements.

The unveiling of FlexiLab comes as a part of the State Government's commitment to diversifying the resources industry, creating a genuine pit to product value chain, creating more jobs along with meeting the challenges of a low-carbon future.

The Resources Centre of Excellence opened in mid-2020 and provides training options for students and apprentices as well as supporting companies to develop new products and research.

Funding the expansion of the resources centre is one of the key actions in the Miles Government’s 30-year Queensland Resources Industry Development Plan.

Resources Centre of Excellence CEO Steven Boxall agreed, saying it’s amazing to see this project come to fruition as a result of such a successful collaboration between all involved.

“The Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday region has long been known for its ability to adapt and capture new industries and we now look to use our mining, METS and agriculture expertise to support the emerging critical minerals sector,” Mr Boxall said.

“Understanding the opportunities and technologies required to successfully transform end-of-life and closed mine sites through economic rehabilitation will be invaluable,” he added.

“The Queensland Government and the visionary nature of the Queensland Resource Industry Development Plan has specifically funded this project and for that we are extremely grateful.

“We look forward to continuing the partnership with a burgeoning critical mineral industry in the Bowen Basin.”

FlexiLab will complement the Queensland Resources Common User Facility, which is being built in Townsville.

Resources and Critical Minerals Minister Scott Stewart said that Mackay is a key player in Queensland’s critical minerals sector.

“Investments in initiatives like FlexiLab, will help to ensure a strong resources future for the community and for Queensland for decades to come,” Minister Stewart said.

“As we continue to face the global demand for critical minerals, FlexiLab will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of mineral processing.

“This state-of-the-art facility, designed with a vision for innovation and collaboration, is set to redefine the landscape of mineral processing and accelerate growth in the critical minerals sector,” he said.

“This common-user facility is an investment not just in infrastructure, but in Queensland's economic resilience and future prosperity.

“Queensland’s critical minerals are needed to build our future energy supplies and this facility is a step towards ensuring the entire minerals lifecycle from pit to product stays within Queensland.”

Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert said that the resources industry is a huge part of Mackay’s economy supporting thousands of jobs and countless businesses.

“We want to see that continue which is why we’re investing in the FlexiLab at the Resources Centre of Excellence,” Mrs Gilbert said.

“There are great opportunities to continue to grow and diversify the resources industry which is good for everyone in Mackay.”

‍

L-R: Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert, Resources Centre of Excellence CEO Steven Boxall and Resources and Critical Minerals Minister Scott Stewart at the Resources Centre of Excellence

‍