Local author and humanitarian Sandy Clark will launch her powerful new memoir, Anyone Can Become a Princess, at Eastwoods in Airlie Beach on June 24. The event, running from 6pm to 9pm, forms part of the “Africa Calls” charity cocktail party supporting Dignity Zambia - Clark’s long-running charitable initiative.

Published by international house Austin Macauley Publishers (London, Cambridge, New York, Sharjah), Anyone Can Become a Princess tells the remarkable true story of Sandy’s unexpected royal honour and the life-changing work she spearheaded in one of Zambia’s most remote regions.

An Australian dreamer turned volunteer, Sandy Clark never imagined her journey would lead her to the Lozi Royal Palace in the rural village of Nalolo, Zambia. Amongst the traditional mud huts and straw roofs, she was invited by a local chief to the palace, and there, made a promise that would change countless lives: to raise the funds needed to build a hospital in a village with no running water, no roads, and no electricity.

That promise led to the opening of the Arthur Wina Memorial Hospital (AWMH) in 2019, named after Zambian freedom fighter and first Cabinet Minister, Arthur Wina.

“The story chronicles the extraordinary collaboration between thousands of volunteers, sponsors and supporters from Australia and Zambia,” Sandy said.

“Zambia’s first President, Dr Kenneth Kaunda, joined the celebration of the opening of the hospital, dancing and singing with joy.”

The book also highlights Clark’s friendship with Zambia’s former Vice President, Inonge Wina - herself a Lozi Princess - whom Clark met during her time working in Zambia in the early 1970s. Back then, she was employed by Arthur Wina’s advertising agency, a role that opened doors to a career in Australian journalism, and today, Clark is still registered with the Media Entertainment & Arts Alliance (MEAA), a testament to her long-standing media credentials.

More than a memoir, the book is a call to action.

“This book aims to inspire readers to believe in the power of volunteering, to use their talents to make a difference, and to follow their dreams with confidence,” added Sandy.

“Nothing is impossible for those who believe.”

Sandy's charity, Dignity Zambia, has operated for over a decade. Thanks to her leadership and the support of NewsCorp Adelaide - who ran complimentary advertisements during the charity’s early days - Dignity Zambia has helped bring life-saving services to Nalolo.

“Approximately 3,500 babies have been born at the AWMH with not one loss of life of a mother,” she said.

The Zambian government has since extended vital infrastructure like roads and power to the hospital and wider community, helping transform the once-isolated village into a growing, sustainable township.

All proceeds from the June 24 book launch, including royalties, will be directed towards Stage 3 of the hospital’s development.

Tickets can be purchased through Airlie Events and for further enquiries, contact sandy.clark@dignityzambia.com.

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Local author Sandy Clark launches inspiring memoir and donates proceeds to charity. Photo supplied

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After relocating from Sydney, Mark Edgar and Anna Panton identified a gap in the local market and established Whitsunday European Prestige. They found no nearby services for European cars, and since they had run European Prestige successfully in Sydney for many years, they decided to bring their concept to their new location in 2016.

Whitsunday European Prestige specializes exclusively in European car brands such as Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi, Volkswagen, Fiat, Peugeot, and Bentley. While the workshop is equipped to handle a variety of mechanical tasks, from Timing Belts to Air Conditioning, what truly distinguishes the company is its in-house capabilities and dealership-level technology.

Mark boasts over 40 years of experience in the automotive industry and is specifically trained in Land Rovers, Rolls-Royce, and Bentley. All mechanics at Whitsunday European Prestige are highly trained in specific car brands, ensuring they are well-versed in every vehicle's intricacies.

The business is focused on a niche market.

“We specialize in a niche market; we don’t overextend,” Anna stated.

“European cars are fundamentally different from Japanese vehicles, from the way you work on them to the diagnostics, computers, and technology involved.”

At Whitsunday European Prestige, you can expect scheduled car servicing through to advanced ECU (Engine Control Unit) programming using the latest a dealership-authorized system called Pass Thru, which allows the team to program and update vehicle computers as main dealers do in major cities.

Whitsunday European Prestige loves your European car as much as you.

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A spur-of-the-moment decision saw 20-year-old Mac Rogers change the trajectory of his life when he came across an ad for the YouFor2032 Olympic Testing Sessions and decided to give it a try.

After tests that included the beep test, sprints, pull-ups, and detailed physical measurements such as height, wingspan, and body composition, the combined data revealed that Mac had the potential to excel in as many as five sports.

He was told he could succeed in beach volleyball, pole vault, boxing, canoe sprint, or rowing.

After trying pole vaulting and deciding it wasn’t for him, he jumped into a rowing boat and discovered his true passion. Now, the sport has his full commitment, and the 2032 Olympics are within his sights.

Mac Rogers Powers Toward Olympic Dreams

Once Mac Rogers committed to rowing, there was no turning back. After choosing the sport, he was invited to give it a try and was granted three months to see if it was the right fit.

That trial period led to a 12-month probation, where Mac proved his dedication and determination, setting the stage for his future in the sport.

He said training was ramped up in the 12-month period and he is training two times a day, nearly every day. But all the training is necessary because the sport is extremely demanding.

“It requires your entire body and soul,” laughed Mac.

“We always raced over 2000 meters, which is like a special kind of distance because it's a sprint, but you can't sprint for 2000 meters!

“It's a pretty painful mix between energy systems, to be honest. It’s endurance but also strength.”

Before he got into the program, the former Proserpine State High School student said he trained hard without knowing what his future would look like.

“In my eyes, I was sort of building a baseline so that once I knew what I actually wanted to do, I would be prepared to go all in, which is pretty much what has happened,” he said.

“It has worked out, even though I didn't have those six years of private school rowing, I had built enough of a baseline fitness in that time that it wasn’t that much of a jump.

In that short time, Mac has already competed at the national level, placing 12th in the under-21s at the Australian Rowing Championships, and picking up a win at the Queensland State Championships in the quadruple scull.

“Not exactly the result I would have liked, but it went pretty well,” he shared.

“I’m definitely shooting for a lot higher up in that ranking next year.”

Now, Mac is currently waiting to find out if he has secured a spot with the Queensland Academy of Sport (QAS), and he is expected to find out within the next few weeks.

Above all, Mac feels extremely lucky to be in the sport, he said he wouldn’t be in rowing if Queensland weren’t going to host the Olympics.

“I feel really fortunate to have been born into these circumstances,” he said.

“I'm only in it because of this talent ID program that came around, and they told me that I had potential in rowing.

“If that hadn't happened, I don't think I would have found it approachable enough, because everyone else has been doing it for six years before me.”

Mac is also an ambassador for the YouFor2032 program and says they have just launched an app, so people can test themselves at home.

He encourages any young local athletes to give it a go.

“It allows you to test yourself at home and if you're good, then they'll invite you to the testing days,” he said.

“That's really big, and it could be a big thing for people in Whitsundays too, which is exciting.”

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Whitsunday Local Mac Rogers has been selected for the YouFor2032 program and has a spot in the Olympic Rowing Team in his sights. Photo supplied

After being in rowing for such a short time, Mac feels honoured to be in the sport
20 year old Mac Rogers has committed himself to rowing
Mac on the water

Photos supplied

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At the Metropole Hotel Proserpine, they believe in more than just great service, they believe in the community. At the driving force behind the retail and corporate liquor sales division is Bruce Spannagle.

With over 20 years of experience in the liquor industry, Bruce brings a wealth of knowledge, dedication, and a genuine passion for helping local businesses and customers alike. Whether you're a café, restaurant, event organiser, or small business, Bruce and the Metropole team are there to make sure your alcohol needs are covered, quickly, efficiently, and with a friendly, can-do attitude.

More Than Just Sales - It's About Service
Bruce Spannagle's leadership isn't just about numbers, it's about people. "At the end of the day," Bruce says, "we're here to support the community that supports us. Whether it's a single bottle or a full commercial order, we treat every customer with the same respect and dedication."

Bruce describes his job as demanding but he likes the challenge.

“Anyone can do an order, but there's only certain times you can buy stuff cheap,” he said.

“We always make sure we keep our prices down!"

So, whether you're running a business, planning an event, or just dropping in to grab your favourites, the Metropole Hotel Proserpine is your one-stop shop for all things liquor, with Bruce and the team ready to help every step of the way.

Supporting Local Business, One Delivery at a Time
At Metropole Hotel the corporate sales division is built on the philosophy that no job is too small. They understand that every business is unique, and by tailoring their service they can suit everyone’s individual requirements.

With fast delivery times, competitive pricing, and a deep understanding of the local market, they're here to help your business thrive.

From restocking shelves to planning large events, Bruce ensures every order is handled with care and delivered on time every time.

Three Convenient Locations to Serve the Community
The Metropole Hotel Proserpine doesn’t just pride itself on supporting local businesses, they are also part of the daily lives of people in Proserpine and the surrounding region.

• Two locations at the Proserpine Hotel, offering a wide selection of beers, wines, spirits, and friendly service.
• One at Fresh Fields Shopping Centre, perfect for those on-the-go or grabbing their weekend favourites.

At every outlet, the team is committed to providing helpful advice, local knowledge, and that warm country hospitality our community is known for.

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Proserpine State High School student Allegra Bradley has returned to Australia after her life-changing Anzac Tour of Europe walking in the footsteps of our Anzacs.

The trip was made possible because Allegra was named one of the eight Premier’s Anzac Prize recipients from across Queensland for 2025.

As part of the application process, Allegra had to submit a video research project about a local service person.

“I met with local historians and ex-service men who were very kind to share with me their stories,” Allegra said.

“I was inspired by their stories of resilience, courage and bravery, which are valuable lessons we the younger generation can take forward into the future.”

Allegra and her fellow recipients had the incredible opportunity in January to partake in a three-day Young Historians Workshop delivered by the State Library of Queensland.

Here they explored the rich tapestry of stories of Australia’s service personnel while also visiting important Australian war memorial sites in Brisbane city.

A highlight for Allegra, however, was the exclusive white glove experience at the State Library where students were allowed a behind-the-scenes look at research material to deepen their understanding of their service person they had chosen to explore in their application.

Donning white gloves to preserve the records, they viewed and handled precious World War I artefacts and first-hand accounts such as journals, trench art and letters from the time.

This experience provided Allegra with more of an in-depth understanding of the Anzac legacy. She shared her research with students from Proserpine State School before her trip to inspire them about the Anzac spirit.

On April 11, the Anzac Tour began and included visits to war memorial sites, former battlefields, museums and many world-renowned historical landmarks throughout England, France and Belgium, with their attendance at the dawn service at Villers-Bretonneux the most memorable.

Allegra said her favourite memory from the tour was Anzac Day Dawn Service.

“The dawn service was unlike any I’ve been to, and following that, we were immersed into the community of Le Hamel, which allowed us to gain the perspective of the impact and appreciation the people of France have with Australia,” she said.

Research wasn’t Allegra’s only focus in the lead up to the tour. The Premier’s Prize recipients spearheaded fundraising initiatives across the state that raised more than $20,000 for Australian charity Mates4Mates that supports the mental health of veterans and their families.

Applications for this year’s Premier’s Anzac Prize are now open. For more information about the prestigious annual program or to apply, visit https://education.qld.gov.au/about-us/budgets-funding-grants/scholarships/premiers-anzac-prize/this-years-program.

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Allegra enjoyed The White Gloves Event
Students honouring the ANZAC's overseas

Photos supplied

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Television presenter Greg Grainger has been in Bowen and Collinsville filming for an episode of “Travel Oz”. The show is expected to be aired on Channel 7TWO at 8.30am on Saturday, May 17.

It will also be aired on international TV.

The crew were hosted by Bowen Tourism and Business with co-sponsors – Rose Bay Beach Caravan Park, the Collinsville Community Association, Meraki Whitsundays, and the North Queensland Cruising Yacht Club.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said Greg really enjoyed his time in the region and was very impressed with the beautiful beaches and the great hospitality he received.

“Programs like this would not be possible without our co-sponsors and we appreciate their support,” she said.

Greg is a Logie award winner and is known for travel and adventure documentaries and wildlife programs.

While in Bowen, he went snorkelling and sailing, visited the Summergarden Theatre, local farms, Birds Seafood and the Collinsville May Day celebration.

He stayed in a glamping tent at Rose Bay Beach Caravan Park and catering was provided by Meraki Whitsundays.

He really enjoyed his bushwalk to Mother Beddock and learning about the history of the region.

Of course, he also visited the Big Mango and enjoyed a delicious mango sorbet.

“Programs like this offer great exposure for Bowen and entire Whitsundays region and we are looking forward to seeing the end result,” Leanne said.

Contributed with thanks to Bowen Tourism & Business

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Travel Oz at the Big Mango
Travel Oz on a walk through Bowen

Photos supplied

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What a week at ATE25! Tourism Whitsundays was proud to represent our region on the global stage in Brisbane. Alongside 10 passionate operators, we formed Team Whitsundays, showcasing the very best of our destination to the world.

Across four busy days, we held 84 appointments with international buyers from over 30 countries. Each meeting was an opportunity to highlight the unique experiences and natural beauty that make The Whitsundays so special.

Beyond the tradeshow floor, the famil program gave us the chance to welcome international buyers and media to experience the region first-hand. From scenic flights to sailing adventures to island visits and beachfront dining, we offered a taste of everything The Whitsundays has to offer.

The strength of our region really shone through thanks to the amazing products and experiences from our Whitsundays operators. Their passion and professionalism made it clear why The Whitsundays is one of the most exciting destinations for international travellers.

Contributed with thanks to Tourism Whitsundays

Australian Tourism Exchange 2025 (ATE25) in Brisbane
Tourism Whitsundays at ATE25 in Brisbane

Photos supplied

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This past week I had the privilege of joining fellow Mayors Greg Williamson (Mackay) and Kelly Vea Vea (Isaac) in Brisbane, as part of a united Greater Whitsunday delegation led by GW3.

Over two days, we proudly showcased the strength and opportunity of our region to key state decision-makers – culminating in the Greater Possibilities Showcase at Queensland Parliament House, attended by more than 90 ministers, Director-Generals and invited guests.

The flavours of our region made the journey with us – from locally farmed prawns in Isaac and award-winning sauces from Sarina Sugar Shed, to a handcrafted agave spirit proudly distilled in the Whitsundays. Together with our local MPs Amanda Camm, Nigel Dalton and Glen Kelly, we shared why the Greater Whitsunday is one of the few regions globally capable of supporting multiple billion-dollar industries.

The Showcase also highlighted key opportunities requiring government support – including infrastructure investment at Abbot Point and Mackay SDAs, realignment of aquaculture and agriculture policy, improved digital connectivity across 15 regional projects, housing investment and the Road Royalty Package proposal to strengthen our freight routes.

In addition to the Showcase, I met with four Ministers and the Treasurer to advocate for the Whitsunday region. We discussed a range of priorities, including seeking funding for major projects and the essential infrastructure needed to support our growth. As the Whitsunday Region continues to experience rapid expansion, particularly with the highest rate of internal migration in Australia, it is imperative that we secure investment in infrastructure to keep pace with this growth.

A significant point of discussion was the responsibility of local councils to fund the considerable infrastructure required to support this development. The scale of investment needed is substantial, and without strong government collaboration, it’s challenging for local councils to bear the full financial burden. Ensuring state and federal support for this infrastructure will be critical to maintaining the region’s momentum and ensuring sustainable growth.

We discussed unlocking new housing stock, which is a critical need, and the possibility of adding another secondary school to meet the demands of a growing population. Another key topic was the collaboration on road network planning and the much-needed investment, especially in major and rural roads that are essential to supporting both residential and industrial growth across the region.

This visit wasn’t just about promoting our region – it was about securing the partnerships and support we need to unlock even greater possibilities.

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Social bowls enthusiasts made the most of mixed weather conditions last week, with several solid performances on the green and the long-anticipated return of Barefoot Bowls.

On Wednesday, ten players took part in social games, with Trevor Parsons and Philip Brown claiming a convincing 28–11 win over Alen Sanderson and Barry Zillmann. Meanwhile, the trio of Aurora, Bruce Uhe, and Heather Brown secured a 24–15 victory over Arthur Griffith, John Anderson, and Sandy Daffara.

Friday night saw the successful launch of the club’s first Barefoot Bowls evening for the year, following previous cancellations due to rain. The turnout was strong, and organisers extended their thanks to everyone who helped bring the night together.

Saturday’s social bowls doubled as a chance for selectors to assess players keen to represent the club in upcoming pennants competitions. While rain disrupted some of the games, it didn’t dampen the enthusiasm of those hoping to make the team.

Unfortunately, Sunday’s bowls had to be called off after a good dose of rain soaked Proserpine.

Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Bowls Club

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All five Sea Eagles AFL teams braved the wet and windy conditions for the home crowd on the weekend with some great results. Lots of supporters were out and about also making the most of having footy back at The Nest, enjoying the new rendition of the Sea Eagles Club song multiple times with wins throughout the day.

Sea Eagles Senior Men clashed with Mackay City Hawks using the wind to their advantage in the first quarter, able to hold that lead for the remainder of the game running out winners 57 - 32.

Sea Eagles Senior Women were victorious in the rematch with Moranbah, running hard in the second quarter to put goals on the board eventually taking the win 32 - 8.

Moranbah came out firing against Sea Eagles Under 17s and although Sea Eagles were able to improve on last week's performance and stay in reach, the final term saw Moranbah pull away to post a 37 point win.

Sea Eagles Under 15s were eager to take on Moranbah again after a close match last week, however Moranbah took off in the first quarter and Sea Eagles were unable to make it back with 23 - 49 the final score.

Under 13s Sea Eagles went out early in the ever changing conditions to beat Moranbah Bulldogs for the second week running, in what ended as a close match 20 - 16 after Bulldogs used the wind in the final term to make it interesting.

This coming week four teams head to Mackay with U13s and U15s headed Mackay Magpies and Senior Men and Women at Eastern Swans.

Saturday 10th May
8:00am U13 Sea Eagles vs Mackay Magpies (Magpies)
9:15am U15 Sea Eagles vs Mackay Magpies (Magpies)
1:50pm Senior Women vs Eastern Swans (Rogers Oval)
3:20pm Sea Eagles Senior Men vs Eastern Swans (Rogers Oval)

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Sea Eagles

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May

8 Proserpine Rock Wallaby Festival 8th – 11th | Exhibition Opening Night 6:30pm

9 Mamma Mia, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

10 Art in the Park, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 9:00am - varied class start times. Bookings required for class participation, $25pp. Exhibition free.

10 Car Boot Sale, Airlie Beach Bowls Club, 9:00am-3:00pm

11 Mother’s Day

11 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

11 Handmade & Homecrafted Markets, Ken McPherson Park / P.E.C

11 Mother’s Day Morning Tea, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 9:30am, $35pp, Bookings Required

12 Spellbound, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7:00pm

13 Sailability, Downstairs at the Whitsunday Sailing Club, Volunteers 8:00am-2:00pm & Sailors/Carers 9:00am-1:00pm, Bookings Required

13 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

14 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

14 The Whitsundays 2025 Whale Season Information Night, Whitsunday Sailing Club, 6.30pm

16 Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea, Club Whitsunday, 9:30am-11:00am, $25pp Bookings Required, Group Bookings Welcome.

17 Whitsunday Multicultural Festival, Bowen Soundshell Santa Barbara Parade, 10:00am-2:00pm

17 Whitsunday Brahmans Family Field Day, Les Stagg Oval in Proserpine, 3:00pm-7:00pm

18 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

18 Distinguished Gentleman's Ride, various location, 8:00am-11:00am, Registration Required to Participate

20 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

25 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

26 National Sorry Day

27 National Reconciliation Week, May 27th – June 3rd

27 Sailability, Downstairs at the Whitsunday Sailing Club, Volunteers 8:00am-2:00pm & Sailors/Carers 9:00am-1:00pm, Bookings Required

27 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

28 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

31 Whitsunday Cruisin’ Car Club SHOW & Shine, LOCATION, 8:00am-11:30am

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Friday 9th

• The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
• Grand View Hotel: Julias Dator (from 8pm)

Saturday 10th May

• The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Shania Twain Tribute (2pm – 5.30pm)
• The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
• Grand View Hotel: 80s to the MAX (from 8pm)
• Coral Sea Pavillion: (Live Music & DJ Session 1pm – 6pm)

Sunday 11th May (MOTHER’S DAY)

• The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Shania Twain Tribute (2pm – 5.30pm)
• The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
• Grand View Hotel: Julias Dator (4pm – 8pm)
• Coral Sea Pavillion: Chill Acoustic Session (2pm – 6pm)

Thursday 15th May

• The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Chris Booroff (6.30pm – 9.30pm)

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A significant fire broke out at a Hostel in Bowen last Wednesday morning 30th April, and sadly a fatality has been confirmed.

At approximately 3:30am a large-scale response was initiated by emergency services after police were alerted to a building fully engulfed in flames on Gordon Street, following reports from concerned locals.

Fire crews from the local station were swiftly deployed, with three teams arriving on scene around 3:40am. 

The fire, located near the intersection of Brisbane Street and Herbert Street, was confirmed as a structural fire. Emergency personnel initiated both external and internal firefighting operations in an effort to control the blaze.

By 4:45am, the fire had been largely extinguished, though crews remained on site to suppress any remaining hotspots and prevent the fire from spreading to adjacent buildings. 

Authorities confirmed that no other structures in the vicinity were impacted.

While initial reports indicated that all occupants were evacuated safely, at 8:04pm Wednesday 30 April, the Queensland Police Service announced that a fatality occurred.

Further searches of the property located a body and forensic examination is underway to identify the deceased.

Anyone who may have witnessed anything, or has dashcam or CCTV from the area, is urged to contact investigators.

Police investigations are still ongoing at the time of print. (Wednesday 7th May)

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Local author and writers’ mentor Richard Evans is set to captivate readers with his latest political thriller, 'Horrible People', the first in the Jack Hudson MP series. Drawing on his experience as a former federal politician and national industry leader, Evans brings a unique and authentic perspective to political storytelling.

Evans believes apathy towards politics often breeds scepticism and discontent. 'Horrible People' explores this idea through a compelling narrative filled with page-turning plots and memorable characters, offering a glimpse into the murky waters of political life.

The book launched in Mackay at the Dudley Denny City Library, coinciding with Evans’ creative writing course on federal election day — is a fitting blend of literature and civic engagement that reflects his approach to storytelling.

When asked if 'Horrible People' is a memoir, Evans grinned and said, "You may say that, but I could never confirm such a proposition." He added, "While the novel draws from my lived political experiences and the fascinating individuals I’ve encountered, it is a work of fiction designed to entertain and provoke thought."

Regarded as a master of the political thriller genre in Australia, Evans has penned nine novels that captivate and challenge readers. His work doesn't just thrill — it reflects on the political landscape with insight and wit.

'Horrible People' is now available. Ask for a copy at your local bookstore, library, or preferred online retailer.

Take a gripping journey into the dark arts of politics and discover how fiction can reflect the truth.

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'Horrible People' by Richard Evans is available now. Photo supplied

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Following a successful 2024 event, the Whitsundays Writers Festival is thrilled to announce its 2025 From the Heart Keynote speaker—Dr Anita Heiss. An award-winning author of 25 books, Dr Heiss is a proud Wiradyuri woman, Indigenous Literacy Foundation Ambassador, and Professor of Communications at the University of Queensland.

Her novels include Manhattan Dreaming, Tiddas, and Barbed Wire and Cherry Blossoms, with Bila Yarrudhanggalangdhuray winning the 2022 NSW Premier’s Literary Prize for Indigenous Writing.

Festival Chair Karen Jacobsen expressed excitement, saying, "It's rare for regional Queenslanders to have the opportunity to meet renowned national and international writers. This is an important event for the Whitsundays and a golden opportunity for readers and writers to visit the heart of the Great Barrier Reef at one of the most ideal times of year.”

Running from September 12–14, 2025, the festival will also feature the prestigious Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards, recognising outstanding unpublished manuscripts and short stories. Supported by the Roderick Centre for Australian Literature at James Cook University, the Best Unpublished Manuscript prize includes $2500.

Writers of all levels, across Australia, are encouraged to submit entries by July 14, 2025. Submission details and entry guidelines are available on the festival’s website.

“This event will bring together creative minds in the picturesque setting of the Whitsundays. What better place to immerse yourself in the brilliance of Australian literature?” remarked Karen. “I strongly advise securing your place at the festival and booking accommodation early to fully enjoy the wonders of the Whitsundays while indulging in the myriad of events the festival has to offer.”

Visit www.whitsundayswriters.com for more information, early bird tickets, and updates on speakers and events.

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Dr Anita Heiss will be a Keynote Speaker at this years Whitsunday Writers Festival. Photo supplied

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