As the school bells chime and the back-to-school rush begins, there's no better place to gear up for the academic adventure than Little Treehouse Lane. Nestled upstairs at Caneland Central Shopping Centre, this haven for parents and little scholars alike is not just a store; it's a destination for quality, functionality, and style in back-to-school accessories.Emphasis on Quality from Trusted BrandsLittle Treehouse Lane takes pride in curating a selection of products from loved and respected brands, ensuring that every purchase is an investment in durability and reliability. Quality is the cornerstone of their offerings, and this commitment shines through in the carefully chosen items that grace their shelves.Daycare Essentials for a Seamless ExperiencePreparing for daycare? Little Treehouse Lane has you covered with a comprehensive range of essentials. From sheets and bottles to pacifiers, teethers, sleep sacks, and more, the store anticipates the needs of parents and caregivers, making the daycare experience more manageable and enjoyable for everyone involved.Back-to-School Kids EssentialsLittle Treehouse Lane transforms the back-to-school shopping experience by offering a vast array of backpacks, insulated lunch boxes in various sizes, and a massive selection of long-lasting lunch boxes and bento-style snack boxes. The store goes above and beyond, providing insulated bottles to keep food and drinks at the perfect temperature throughout the day.Spotlight BrandsLittle Treehouse Lane proudly features spotlight brands that exemplify their commitment to quality and functionality. Among them is MontiiCo, an Australian-designed and owned company offering long-lasting, everyday essentials for family life. Their products, including insulated drinkware, lunch bags, and lunch boxes, are not only functional but also stylish and fun for kids and adults alike. OmieBox, another highlight, is an insulated bento box designed to pack healthier lunches with more variety while keeping food hot and cold in the same box. It's a game-changer for school lunches. b.box, with its age-specific feeding solutions, provides functional, innovative, and award-winning essentials that cater to every stage of childhood, from newborn to high school. ergoPouch, known for its natural fibre, premium sleepwear and sleep solutions, offers TOG-rated sleep sacks perfect for daycare, ensuring a comfortable and restful naptime for your little ones. Little Treehouse Lane believes in creating a more functional life to cut down on chaos. The store features items you might not have even thought of, like Banana savers to prevent bruised bananas and packs designed to streamline before and after school routines. It's all about making daily life more manageable for busy families.

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A couple of things I want to touch on, as I let you drink your first of three coffees’ today, as we know this weekend will be a busy time for many around Mackay and the Whitsundays.

The first one is Monday. It is the day to start the week, and I have got to say, this Monday will be special in so many ways. It is the start of school for so many kids around town. That means if for the first time, the second or the last time, emotions will be running high as we let our kids explore a new grade, or the new wide world.

Good luck to those little ones heading off to Kindy, Primary School, or even starting High School for the first day. Next Monday will be exciting and nerve racking at the same time. Soak it all up, smile. Oh, and do not forget, it will be over before you know it. Plus, the paper they give you at the end of it all, does not make you at all. That comes from firsthand experience.

The other thing that is on next week is I am back on 4MK after a couple of weeks holiday. It has been fun switching off the 4am alarm and just getting up when I feel like it for a fortnight. While I say that, it does not mean that I have been sleeping on a hammock all the time after mowing the yard. I have been kept busy. Volunteering, catching up with friends, going to the gym at such early hours (thanks Steve you’re a legend) and eating too much peanut butter and sun-dried tomatoes. Not at the same time.

It will be good to get back in the groove of breakfast radio on Monday, so join me for some fun and a few laughs along the way.

The other thing that is on next week, is something big to many people for different reasons. Australia Day is officially this time next week, and whilst it is a divisive day to many people, it is a day that is celebrated for what it is. This column is not a place to discuss why, but to tell you that next Thursday night the Mackay Australia Day awards are on at the MECC.

This is a night to thank those people who give so much to our community, but never reach out for acknowledgement. I have been nominated again for Citizen of the Year and Volunteer of the Year awards, and for that I am truly grateful to whoever did put my name forward. I feel very humbled to be nominated in the company of so many beautiful people who give back, day after day.

I have been nominated many times before, and I tell you, to just to receive this early acknowledgment is winning in my eyes. So, thank you one and all, and good luck to everyone else whose names are up in lights. You are all winners to me. Let us congratulate them all on Thursday. Oh, and Happy Australia Day.

You can join Rob Kidd from 5am weekday mornings on 4MK 1026 AM in Mackay and Proserpine, 91.5FM in Airlie Beach or just ask your smart speaker to play 4MK on iHeartRadio!

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In a heartening display of community connection, Glenella Care Centre opened its doors last week to mothers and their little ones as part of a special Mums and Bubs initiative. The event aimed to foster interaction between the elderly residents and the joyful energy of toddlers and babies, creating an atmosphere filled with love, compassion, and the magic that happens when generations intertwine.

The initiative is a win-win situation, not only does it warm the hearts of the residents at Glenella Care Centre but also provides invaluable benefits for the little ones and their mothers. For children who may not have family or close relatives nearby, the opportunity to bask in the love and compassion of the elderly becomes a priceless experience. On the flip side, the elderly residents, many of whom may not have regular interactions with young children, relish the chance to watch, play, and connect with the lively babies and toddlers.

The Mums and Bubs day at Glenella Care Centre is set to become a regular occurrence, particularly during school holidays, enriching the lives of both the elderly residents and the young families in the community.

Glenella Care Centre has also extended its commitment to fostering connections across generations by introducing a pen pal program. Collaborating with a local school, the Care Centre has facilitated a heartwarming exchange where students correspond with a resident. With the help of the dedicated care centre staff, the residents lovingly craft replies, creating a bridge between the young minds and the wealth of life experiences held by the elderly.

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Little ones and elderly residents at Glenella Care Centre share smiles, toys and the timeless joy of human connection during the heartwarming Mums and Bubs initiative. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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For several organisations, December was a time to finalise their year and wind down in preparation for the Festive Season but the team of helpers for Mackay Hospital Foundation were busy volunteering their time to make Christmas easier for many shoppers at Mt Pleasant Centre with its Christmas Gift Wrapping Service.

Mackay Hospital Foundation General Manager, Kristi Algate said, “The result of our Christmas gift wrapping at Mt Pleasant Centre in the lead up to Christmas was our most successful yet and thanks must go to the many people who volunteered their time and expertise to make it such a success.”

Mt Pleasant Centre generously supports a number of local charities and Mackay Hospital Foundation is very fortunate to have had a wonderful working relationship with the Centre for a number of years.

Ms Algate said on most days in the lead up to Christmas, the gift-wrapping station which was located at the top of the escalator at Mt Pleasant Centre, was operational between 10am and 2pm daily. Offers of support came from local organisations such as Hays, Gardian, ANZ Caneland Branch, SBB Partners, Westpac, Mackay Tourism, students from St Patrick’s College and Holy Spirit College, Mackay Base Hospital staff, our MHF volunteers as well as family and friends.

Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert donated her time as did Cr Fran Mann who not only wrapped gifts on a number of days but also made hundreds of bows to adorn the gifts.

A total of $8,138.20 was raised for our local hospitals as a result of the gift-wrapping which Ms Algate said is a record for the Foundation.

“It’s our most successful year yet”, she added.

Mt Pleasant Centre very generously donates the wrapping paper, tape, ribbon and bows, with staff on hand to assist when needed.

Mt Pleasant Centre Manger, Cathy Sullivan said, “From the smallest of gifts to the largest, we had them covered. Christmas is a busy time in the Centre and the gift-wrapping service is an added bonus for shoppers, while at the same time, giving us the opportunity to support a worthy local charity in Mackay Hospital Foundation.”

Ms Algate added, “We’re extremely grateful to the management and staff of Mt Pleasant Centre, to everyone who volunteered their time to wrap gifts and also to every person who donated money in support of our local hospitals.

“Christmas is a special time of year and we’re pleased we could share it with so many visitors to Mt Pleasant Centre and hopefully add a small amount of joy to each person who stopped by to see us”.

Staff and volunteers from Mackay Hospital Foundation will be back at Mt Pleasant Centre in the lead up to Easter as the Easter Bunny visits the Centre, helping out with gift wrapping prior to Mother’s Day and assisting with craft activities during school holidays.

For anyone interested in volunteering for Mackay Hospital Foundation, please contact the office on 4885 5915. Find out more information about Mackay Hospital Foundation, visit mackayhospitalfoundation.com.au

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Cr Fran Mann (Mackay Regional Council), Kristi Algate (Mackay Hospital Foundation) and Denise Phillips (Gardian Group)

The team from SSB Partners

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Applications for round three of Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) grants, worth about $80,000, close next Wednesday, January 24.

This funding is available for projects commencing after Monday, March 4.

Funds are allocated across three categories – $53,400 is available in the general category, $15,000 for young people and $12,000 for green arts.

The Green Arts category aims to support initiatives that focus on environmentally based arts and cultural practice that highlights issues relating to our unique local biodiversity.

The Young People category works to support young people (12-21 years) to pursue creative career pathways and helps to fund projects and programs run by young people for young people.

RADF is a flexible fund that supports local councils to invest in arts and cultural priorities as determined by local communities across Queensland.

RADF is delivered as a partnership between the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland and eligible local councils across the state.

For more information or to apply, head to mackay.qld.gov.au/radf

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More than thirty dedicated runners laced up their shoes and embraced the challenges of the Shawn’s Summer Social Series off-season program with the Mackay Road Runners, kicking off from the Blacks Beach Tavern car park. A special salute goes to Club Captain and Race Director, Jim Ford, whose ingenuity carved out a course encompassing flat and undulating roads, sandy stretches, challenging hills, and stairways that tested the mettle of each participant.

The 5km and 10km course, a two-loop journey, allowed runners to tailor their experience based on their individual capabilities for the day. Battling the relentless summer heat and humidity, all participants eagerly pushed themselves for the ultimate reward awaiting them at the finish line – the coveted zooper dooper. A heartfelt thank you goes to Col Meng, Alana and Adam Knesevic for generously providing the refreshing treats. Special appreciation also extends to Andrew Short for assisting Jim in the meticulous course set-up.

Outstanding performances lit up the track, with notable runs from Paul Mackenzie, Grant Holmstrom, Luke Leven, Alana Knesevic, Glynis Forse, Jose Short, Lily Leven, Tim Dalton, Ryan Evetts, Natasha Joynson, Kim Saron, Leanne Connor, Julie Whibley, Abbey-Jane Whibley, Lauren Connor, Carmel Mahon, Jo Hughes, and newcomer Todd Turner. Birthday celebrations were in order for David Isbister, who conquered a remarkable 5km alongside impressive runs from Daniel Stampa and Adam Knesevic, navigating the course with a double pram carrying Vivien and Harvey.

The excitement continues this Sunday with the #13 Shawn’s Summer Social Series event launching from the scenic Northern Beaches suburb of Bucasia. Runners and walkers are urged to assemble at the Bucasia Shopping Centre carpark by 5 pm, with the race set to commence at 5:15 pm sharp. Keep an eye out for the formal 2024 Club calendar/program on the website soon. The running community eagerly anticipates another exhilarating event as the series unfolds.

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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Champion veteran swimmer, Daniel Stampa also loves lacing up the running shoes.

Champion all-round cricketer, Ryan Evetts enjoys pounding the hilly Blacks Beach pavements.

New runner to the Shawn’s Summer Social Series, Todd Turner (left) gets a big welcome from the Mackay Road Runners.

Daughter and Mum Abbey-Jane and Julie Whibley enjoy a training run in the leadup to this year’s running goals.

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To the sound of a squeaky dog toy, I am writing this.

Our office dog (who doubles as Rachael’s pet pooch) has found a toy and is so excited that we may not exist in his world.

I also write this off the back of another Core Life Magazine deadline. During my time with this team, we have sent about six Core Life Magazine’s to print and each time is more exciting than the last. And then, when we receive the perfect finished copy, it is so exciting to flick through the pages and marvel at it.

It’s a little bit crazy to be in this world, where you can tangibly see all the hard work and effort that you’ve spent on this amazing project.

In other worlds, the sport club registrations are opening up, and are announcing their season dates, plus the annual Whitsunday Sports Expo, on February 3.

I’m playing with the idea of signing up for Netball again, just because I loved it last year and I met some great people, and it kicked off my exercise journey.

Before I moved here, I found it too cold to really get out on the courts (even though it was my childhood home town and I’d lived in the cold for upwards of 10 years), but relocating up here, I made it a priority to get out, join clubs and try and make some friends.

That being said, I also joined soccer at the beginning of summer, with the Summer Sixes, and I unexpectedly loved it. I hadn’t played soccer ever as a proper sport, only ever at university in college one-off competitions.

My team’s colour was fluro yellow, which really got some giggles in the office when I had to get changed at work for the 5.30 games.

While I would have wished for any other colour, I loved the game and loved the team I was placed with.

As someone who is still quite new to the area, what would you suggest I do, to get out and about, meet people and make friends?

Likeminded residents have rallied together, sending a truckload of material donations to flood affected communities in North Queensland.

Primarily for the smaller and remote communities of Rossville, Wujal, Helensvale and Bloomfield, Jenni Walters turned to Facebook to send out the call for donations.

Particularly asking for linens, towels, pillows, summer clothing, shoes, and home goods, including clothing racks and kitchen utensils, Jenni was inundated with locals wishing to donate.

Jenni does specify that no monetary donations are necessary as residents in these communities aren’t able to receive deliveries and the shops nearby are closed. Plus, food supplies have been delivered to these areas already, and residents are lacking with household goods.

The first truck will be making its trip to these communities next week, so any donations are welcome to be dropped off at Cartridge Universe in Stewart Drive, Cannonvale.

Jenni also sends her thanks to those have already donated and contributed to helping these affected communities.

One Rockhampton man’s pride and joy, a vintage 1974 Blue Holden HQ LS Monaro has been allegedly stolen from his property, striking a statewide search.

The vintage Monaro was safely stored away on John Moyle’s property at Struck Oil, near Mount Morgan, when on January 11, 2024, the car vanished.

John is the second owner of the original Monaro, and the car is in near perfect, original condition. He purchased the Monaro 40 years ago, and it’s his “Pride and Joy.”

“He is absolutely gutted,” Ben Moyle, John’s son, explained.

“People came onto the property from time to time and offered to buy the car, but no money could buy it off him.”

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John Moyle’s classic Monaro stolen in the night from his property. Image supplied

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Classic Car Stolen

Seen Travelling Through Proserpine

The 1974 Blue Holden HQ LS Monaro is in near perfect, original condition and is the prized possession of John Moyle.

He purchased the car 40 years ago, and religiously drove the vehicle up until the birth of his son, 20 years ago. From then, his father drove it up until his own death, and the Monaro has been parked in its spot since.

Now, 12 years on, John has continued to keep the car in pristine condition, with plans to begin working on it later this year, with his son, Ben Moyle, to turn it into a display club car.

“This was one thing that was keeping him going,” Ben Moyle explained.

In the early hours of January 11, 2024, the Monaro was allegedly removed from John’s property by a white Prado, which was then dumped 10 to 15 minutes down the road.

“Since then, it has been spotted being towed by a black Nissan Patrol,” Ben explained.

“Dad’s been offered prices for it, but thieves do what thieves do.”

The original vinyl roof has allegedly been removed, as too have the registration plates.

John reported the Monaro stolen to the police, and Ben turned to Facebook, however the post has since been shared across Australia, with running commentary in local community groups reporting sightings, including within Cannonvale and Proserpine.

One man, Kent Murray, has been sharing sightings, sharing that the Monaro was seen in Proserpine on Sunday, January 14, but wasn’t yet spotted in Home Hill that evening.

“It sticks out like a sore thumb,” Ben explained.

The Monaro has the original woodgrain dash and is one of allegedly only 400 produced in Australia, with some fetching prices upwards of $150,000.  

“We’ve reported to Police, but it seems like we’re doing more work than they are!” Ben said.

“We can watch it travel north on government cameras, but police just aren’t rocking up to catch the guys.

“It’s bullshit.

“This was well planned, by semi-smart people. They had the time and money to take the car and travel north with it. This is not their first rodeo.”

Ben believes it is now being hidden in Home Hill, with the perpetrators waiting for the media coverage to die down to continue their travels or list it for sale.

“The police have received reports of it going north, but they can’t seem to accept the help from the public,” Ben explained.

“It really shows that there are still good communities out there, sharing and helping us bringing the Monaro home.”

The Queensland Police have recently unveiled a new Stolen Vehicle Portal, allowing members of the community to access a comprehensive list of stolen vehicles in Queensland.

Community members are welcome to access the portal here: https://bit.ly/4b2D5N9

And in the case of a spotting of a stolen car, individuals are encouraged to report via Policelink on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

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The Monaro, seen being towed through Mackay.

The 1974 Holden Monaro stolen in the middle of the night. Photos supplied and Facebook

The Rotary Clubs of Airlie Beach and Proserpine have joined together to send one local youth to the National Youth Science Forum (NYSF) in Brisbane last week.

Holly Perrin, entering Year 12 in 2024 at Proserpine State High School, was selected for the nine-day science, technology, and engineering opportunity, and is jointly sponsored by Rotary Club of Airlie Beach and Proserpine.

NYSF is a great opportunity for young people looking to pursue a career in STEM to actively learn and engage with aspects of industry with likeminded youth and supportive teachers and supervisors.

For many years, Rotary Clubs of Airlie Beach and Proserpine have jointly sponsored local young people to attend the yearly forum.

“Whether it’s NYFS or another forum program, it is not easy for students in our area to participate,” explained Merewyn Wright, Rotary Club of Airlie Beach’s NYFS Coordinator.

“We always want to give students the opportunity to attend. STEM is the key area for the future, and we always want to support youth to attend, learn and grow.”

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Holly Perrin with Club President and Councillor Jan Clifford and Club Secretary and the club's NYSF coordinator Merewyn Wright. Photo supplied

As Australia Day draws nearer, Whitsunday Regional Council have released their nomination list for the 2024 Australia Day Awards Nominees.

These nominees represent the community and the spirit of our region, and their individual achievements and commitment to the Whitsundays is a testament to their individual compassion and respect, to their strength and ability to bring our community together and make it a better place for all.

Citizen of the Year sponsored by at Hotel Group

   • Rabia Morris

   • David Cooper

   • Tarnia Patton

   • Megan Taylor

   • Christine Hinschen

   • Kayne Fayolle

   • Rob Harris

   • Tina Everett

   • Ashleigh Thompson

   • Claire Mitchell-Must

   • Dr. Myint Soe

Young Citizen of the Year sponsored by Whitsunday Triathlon Club

   • Danzel Lewis

   • Skye Kennedy

   • Sam Rogers

Art and Cultural Award sponsored by Whitsunday Regional Council 

   • Sally Hannemann

   • Jahla Thompson

   • Betsy Atkinson

   • Kieran McCarthy

   • Gleezus: Teen Rock Band

Community Event Award sponsored by Whitsunday Triathlon Club & Environmental Award sponsored by Whitsunday Regional Council 

   • Proserpine Community Markets

   • Proserpine High School production - Sweet Charity

   • Bowen Community Sunday Markets

   • Proserpine Whitsunday Uniting Church Flower Show

   • The Baby Welcoming Ceremony - Bowen Lions Ladies

   • Airlie Beach Park Run

   • Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre - 2023 Program of Events

   • Whitsunday Conservation Council

Senior Sports Award sponsored by Whitsunday Triathlon Club

   • Kara Olver

   • Scott Boldy

   • Wayne Hinschen

   • Aimee Sulzberger

   • Leah Savelio

   • Tim Mcquoid Mason

Junior Sports Award sponsored by Whitsunday Triathlon Club

   • Wesley Homewood

   • Giselle Tronc

   • Jure Portelli

   • Jack Oberg

   • Jacob Bell

   • Hannah Moore

   • Zane Devine

   • Lillian Kelly

Wally Hinschen Volunteer of the Year Award sponsored by at Hotel Group

   • Jill Warren

   • Sabrina Mitchell

   • Steve Fraser

   • Camryn Fordham 

   • Kym Bates 

   • Sheryl Gordan

   • Raymond Wallace

   • Kylie Borellini

   • Susan Gravelle

   • Sandy Clark

   • Mark and Anne Steen

   • Dave Tindall

Whitsunday Regional Libraries’ new initiative is making waves, promoting reading to the region’s youngest with free reading resources.

Available at locations across the region, the Book Swap is primarily for young readers between the ages of zero to five.

Up to two books can be taken at a time, to be exchanged the next time families visit a Book Swap Box.

“The book swap boxes are part of Whitsunday Regional Libraries First 5 Forever literacy program,” explained Robyn Batman, Team Leader of Whitsunday Regional Libraries.

“And provide the opportunity for families visiting our community partners to access free books and information about library services. They are regularly restocked and maintained and can be found at the following locations.”

The carefully curated selection of books has been chosen to support early language skills and literacy development in the children at home.

Book Swap Locations:

Cannonvale

Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre

Whitsunday Community Health Clinic

Whitsunday Counselling and Support Service and Women’s Refuge

Proserpine

Child Health Clinic, Proserpine Hospital

Woodwark

Peak Body Mechanics Clinic

Bowen

Child Health Clinic, Bowen Hospital

54 Reasons Playgroup

Collinsville

Community Health Clinic, Collinsville Hospital

54 Reasons Playgroup

The Choose Collinsville Town Centre Upgrade has been officially opened at a special ceremony on Monday, January 15.

The Whitsunday Regional Council project began in July 2023 and was a part of the Collinsville Masterplan 2021 to beautify the community.

Completed in November 2023, the project was predominately undertaken by Council staff and was supported by the Australian Government’s Building Better Regions Fund.

Upgrades included new irrigated garden beds within the street, including plants and larger shade trees to help cool the street, new disabled car parks, in key locations, new furniture, including bin shelters, bench seats and bollards, new asphalt and reseal, line marking, and street print at entrances to Stanley Street, and new town map, including a history of Collinsville.

“Council looks forward to more rains this wet season that will help our shade trees and ground covers create a green and welcoming Stanley Street for residents and visitors,” a Council spokesperson explained.

“The upgrade has helped revitalise the feel in Stanley Street and aligns with Councils Main Street upgrades completed in Bowen, Proserpine, and Airlie Beach.”

Other projects completed from the Collinsville Masterplan 2021 include the waterpark, playground upgrades, town centre upgrade, pathway upgrades, town centre enhancement, tennis court refurbishment, rugby league club lighting and clubhouse upgrades.

Upcoming projects for Collinsville include the Darcy Munro Park Pump track, and further pathway upgrades to create pedestrian connectivity.

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CEO of Council, Warren Brunker, Councillor Michelle Wright, Mayor Julie Hall, and Acting Director Infrastructure Services, Michael Downing. Photo supplied

Community organisations in Bowen are cheering off the back of another successful Christmas and festival season appeal, providing close to 300 individuals and families of Bowen with access to presents, vouchers, and an abundance of toys.

A joint initiative with the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre, Cooinda Family Centre, Salvos, and Chayim Community Care, over 270 individuals and families were gifted access to Christmas Hampers, and a pop-up shop.

The Bowen Neighbourhood Centre also embarked on their Adopt a Family initiative, with local businesses donating vouchers and funds to support local families and individuals.

“Bowen Neighbourhood Centre was overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from local businesses eager to bring joy to families in need,” Stephanie Cora, Executive Officer of the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre explained.

“The local Business generosity, played a pivotal role in adopting 51 individuals and families, ensuring they experienced something truly special this Christmas.”

Ms Cora said a heartfelt thank you goes out to these businesses for their commitment to spreading Christmas cheer and making a positive impact in our community.

“The Bowen Community Centre extends its appreciation to Pacific National, Aurizon, Abbot Point Operations, Bowen Industrial Hire, Pat McDonald Earthmoving, and Zonta Bowen for their unwavering support and dedication,” she said.

Due to the overwhelming support, the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre was able to approach other community organisations, such as Relationship Australia, Whitsunday Counselling Services, Girudala Community Society Ltd, and Cooinda Family Centre, to nominate families they knew of.

Ms Cora also said that The Bowen Community Centre acknowledges the outstanding efforts of Mayor Julie Hall and Abbot Point Operation for swiftly stepping in to rescue 20 families that missed the hamper cut-off date.

“Their quick and compassionate response ensured that no family in our community was left without the joy of a Christmas celebration,” Ms Cora explained.

“As we reflect on the success of this year's Christmas Hampers, we are reminded of the incredible spirit of generosity and unity that defines our community. The Bowen Community Centre looks forward to building on this momentum, continuing to serve and uplift our community in the years to come.”

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Photos supplied

Whitsunday Water Police have made an impressive arrest at Peter Faust Dam during the first week of January.

Patrolling the waters to ensure the safety of every individual, including vessel operators, swimmers, fishers and jet-ski operators, water police intercepted a male operating an unregistered vessel.

However, Water Police uncovered a bigger mystery.

The male had fled the state approximately 26 years ago, in an alleged attempt to avoid an arrest warrant.

He had returned to Queensland to complete a holiday at Peter Faust Dam and was arrested finally.

Police allege the male was wanted on a warrant for failure to appear in court 26 years ago, on unrelated minor drug charged.

The now 51-year-old man was arrested and is expected to appear at Mount Isa Magistrates Court at a later date.