In 1860, Daniel Emmerson and his two sons took up leases in the district and on August 30 1861, successfully applied for the lease of The Proserpine Creek Run (The first recorded use of the name ‘Proserpine’).

In 1870, Charles Bradley was the first actual settler living in the Gregory area. About the same time, Mr MacArtney took up land at Lethebrook (then known as Banana Pocket).

Then, in 1872, there was a gold rush at Normanby near Bowen and Happy Valley out from Proserpine where a small township on the diggings at Paul’s Pocket sprang up. J. A. Gregory, after whom the river is named, also settled in the area.

You may well ask why the year 1873 is recognised as when Proserpine started.

The answer? 1873 was the year the Waite brothers, George and Charles, took up a selection of land extending from the railway corner to Glen Isla on the south side of Main Street. They were amongst the first to do so. Pioneer, George Waite, came to be regarded as The Father of Proserpine.

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So, just where does Mavis McClements fit into this story?

Mavis was a member of the Royal Historical Society of Queensland; a passionate and accomplished historian most well-known for writing the book, “The Story of Proserpine: 100 years of Settlement 1873 - 1973” which was commissioned by Council.

The McClements came from the Bankstown area to Proserpine just before Cyclone Ada (1970) after Richard McClements was transferred to Proserpine State High School.

While living in Sydney, Mavis had acquired numerous pieces from second-hand and antique shops however, their home was not a suitable location. So, with all their remarkable collections in hand, two years after arriving in Proserpine, on March 25 1972, their Folk Museum, located in Marathon Street, was opened. The McClements ran their very popular museum until 1980 when they sold it and all its contents to Gordon and Merle Staniland who relocated it to Braemar on the Shute Harbour Road.

Never one to be idle, Mavis was prolific in researching all aspects of the history of the Whitsundays. On April 24 1975, she presented a reading “A Town called Proserpine” at a meeting of the Royal Historical Society. In that same year, she wrote the story of St Catherine’s Parish for their Golden Jubilee Celebrations.

Mavis also completed a history of the Proserpine Sugar Mill which she undertook on a voluntary basis. This research formed part of the booklet celebrating the mill’s 50th anniversary as a co-operative.

From “Proserpine Guardian” September 22 1978 - Mrs McClements’ letter to the editor referred to another history which she had written - the history for the Proserpine Primary School’s 75th anniversary which the then Principal, Mr Kevin Boylan, had asked her to write. Apparently, there was some disagreement between members of the Parents and Citizens Association and the history “never surfaced”.  She also worked on the compilation of a history of the coast between Bowen and Mackay, including the Cumberland and offshore islands.

Ever the advocate for women, in May 1978, Mavis presented a paper entitled “A Tribute to a Working Woman” at the Women and Labour Conference at the Macquarie University.  

Mavis was versatile and her interests many – she was a member of the Arts and Crafts Society and an enthusiastic member of the Australian Labor Party. She also had a most interesting collection of dolls and bears.

We are indebted to Mavis McClements for her work in preserving the history of Proserpine’s first 100 years.

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Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum.

A young one in the 150-year belt of Proserpine, Whitsunday Mowers punches above its weight, a testament to the calibre and experience of the team behind the engine.

For Wayne Drabsch, owner and manager of Whitsunday Mowers, the last five years that he has owned Whitsunday Mowers have flown by, with overseeing an expansion, directing growth, and securing the shopfront as the preferred retailer for Proserpine residents.

However, Whitsunday Mowers’ history is older than that.

“I took it over five years ago, but the business itself was going for about 20 years prior to that,” Wayne explained.

“The business had two people on the books, and we’ve got now five, with a much larger premise. In fact, one of these bays is about the size of our old premise.”

Wayne has also overseen a massive growth in brand’s that he stocks, ensuring that the people of Proserpine have the best equipment for their home.

“I am proud of what Whitsunday Mowers offers Proserpine, the brands that Proserpine deserves, and we’re excited to enter the 151th year of Proserpine township, with the revitalisation of the town happening right now.

“It is good to see people reinvesting into Proserpine, because it’s been some time since money has been spent to make Proserpine prosperous again.”

Despite its youth compared to Proserpine town, Wayne is proud of Whitsunday Mowers, who continue to employ locals, to help locals, and look after locals.

Affectionally known as Dr Bill, Dr William Bowman was Proserpine’s first full time veterinarian. The business is now nearing 50 years young.  Dr Bill gave full time care and attention to the community until his retirement in 2010.

Dr Faye McPherson began locuming for Dr Bill in the 1990’s and loved working with fulltime nurse Billye-Jean Stevens so much that she then permanently joined Dr Bill in partnership in 2003.  Since then, the practice has continued to expand and develop to what it is today.

Proserpine Vet Surgery wishes to serve each and every resident in Proserpine, with confidence, compassion and integrity.

“We are a friendly country service you can rely on – this is our motto and mantra,” Dr Faye explained.

“We offer a wide range of treatments in an affordable way. We strive to give the best service possible and to serve our community the way they wish to be served.  One customer’s wants are often something different to another and we cater to all. It’s a team effort and each and every staff member is vital in the work we do.”

Dr Faye is honored to be a crucial part of Proserpine’s history, and she proudly sponsors many junior sporting clubs and various other Proserpine events.  She looks forward to the next chapter in Proserpine’s future.

“This part of the world is lovely. The climate is the best. The mix of clientele is truly interesting.  Proserpine is a close-knit community and I wouldn’t be anywhere else!”

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The Proserpine Vet Surgery team. Photo supplied

Mackay's Memorial Pool Celebrates 60 Years

By Amanda Wright

When is a pool not just a pool?

It's when it embodies the living memory of valour, sacrifice, and service in the face of conflict, a testament to resilience and community passion.

For the Mackay War Memorial Swimming Centre, its significance transcends being a mere recreational facility. It's a symbol fought for and safeguarded, not just against laps or splashes, but against closure, time and time again, by a devoted community.

Six decades ago, this pool, now a living memorial, emerged through determination and a shared sense of honouring those who served. Erected through funds raised by raffling a house, its construction was more than bricks and mortar. It was sweat and dedication, built by the hands of soldiers returning from war, ensuring a legacy to those who never returned.

That effort was remembered and celebrated at a special 60th anniversary party held at the pool last weekend, with returned soldiers, swimmers and the people behind the pool’s survival marking the impressive occasion.

Mackay's Memorial Pool Celebrates 60 Years Of Legacy

On that historic 14th of December, 1963, the Mackay War Memorial Swimming Centre opened its doors, adorned with a mural capturing the essence of sacrifice and duty. The mosaic, a breathtaking triptych, celebrates the Navy, Army, and Air Force alongside poignant symbols, the Lancaster bomber, battleship, submarine, and the landscapes of New Guinea and Egypt. It stands as a daily tribute to the men and women who selflessly served our nation.

Under the watchful gaze of the sun shining upon a dove of peace and the Southern Cross, the pool was dedicated to the fallen of Mackay and district. The opening ceremony, graced by the Postmaster General and the Mayor, echoed with military traditions; a prayer of dedication, inspection of a guard of honour, and the poignant call of the Last Post.

This cherished landmark, listed on the Queensland War Memorial Register, has remained a vital hub for both remembrance and everyday life. Schools gather for swimming carnivals, local squads train, aqua aerobics classes thrive, and a spectrum of swimmers from athletes to enthusiasts find solace and joy within its waters.

As the 60th anniversary celebrations unfurled, the Memorial Pool resonated with stories, memories, and a sense of pride. Members of the Mackay RSL Sub Branch, the Memorial Pool Community Action Group, and the wider community gathered to honour the past and celebrate the present.

A special appearance was made by Keith Payne VC OAM who spoke passionately about his memories of the Memorial Pool.

Member of the Mackay War Memorial Community Action Group, Carol Single, said, “Our group is so appreciative of the support Keith Payne has given to our group over the past 13 years and the successful Heritage Listing of the Mackay Swim Centre in July, 2020.”

Sue Willett said it was a fantastic event which had been 60-years in the making. This milestone celebration, coordinated by Millie Volpe and the dedicated team from DMR Leisure, echoed the feeling of pride and perseverance that resonates within every ripple of this cherished pool.

Peter Sheedy echoed the sentiments, reminiscing on the pool's humble origins and the pride it invoked among World War II soldiers.

“I clearly recall the huge effort that went into fundraising for this pool and the pride that returned soldiers from WW2 expressed at the time in honouring those who served in both world wars,” he said.

“That pool hosted numerous events in my high school years and later.”

The Mackay War Memorial Swimming Centre stands, not just as a pool, but as a living, breathing testament to remembrance and community, ensuring that the sacrifices made are never forgotten, and the values they represent endure for generations to come.

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The North Mackay Sinkers Masters Swimming Club took out the relay at the Memorial Swim Centre 60th anniversary celebration. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

L-R Back: Mackay RSL President Ken Higgins, Mackay War Memorial Community Action Group Members – Carol Single, Sue Willett, Graham Townsend, Darby Monro, and Jane Conlon. L-R Front:  Dawson MP Andrew Willcox and Keith Payne VC OAM

Photos captured by Carol Single and Amanda Wright during the 60th anniversary celebration at the Mackay Memorial Pool

CatholicCare's School Savvy CQ initiative is a vital lifeline for local families in financial distress during the back-to-school season. Through pop-up shops across Mackay, Rockhampton, Gladstone, and Bundaberg, the program offers crucial low-cost uniforms and essential stationery.

During the official launch for 2024, Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert commended the initiative, stating, 'It was an honour to join with the staff for the official launch for 2024. Well done to everyone involved!'

In a time of rising living costs, School Savvy CQ stands as a crucial resource, ensuring every child has access to necessary educational tools. The upcoming January pop-up shops play a pivotal role in alleviating educational inequalities.

No child should ever be denied an education, especially for reasons completely outside of their control such as facing financial hardship.

School Savvy CQ aims to ensure that every child has access to the basic resources that they need to succeed at school.

For details on locations, visit schoolsavvycq.com.

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Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert attended the 2024 launch of School Savvy CQ, a crucial initiative supporting local families' educational needs. Photo supplied

Parts Of Bluewater Trail To Temporarily Close

The Mackay Base Hospital helipad has reopened after a temporary closure to meet new national helicopter landing guidelines.

The RACQ CQ Rescue helicopter service conducted a successful test landing last week to trial new security procedures for take-off and landings. CASA guidelines issued in November require a 50metre exclusion zone that is clear of parked vehicles and people during helicopter take-off and landings. The exclusion zone is due to the helicopter downwash from the blades which can cause objects such as prams or bikes to be blown away if they are closer than 50metres to the helicopter.

Mackay HHS Chief Executive Susan Gannon said this meant the section of the Bluewater Trail near the hospital would be closed for short periods of time.

“Mackay HHS has worked closely with RACQ CQ Rescue and Mackay Regional Council to see how we can meet the new CASA requirements and reopen the helipad,” Ms Gannon said.

“Mackay Regional Council is happy to support the health service temporarily closing the Bluewater Trail for short periods of time when the helipad is in use.

“Access will be limited during both approach and landing and take-off and departure.

“To minimise disruption to path users, the Bluewater Trail will be reopened when the helicopter is on the ground and the engine has been shut down,” she said.

Ms Gannon asked for community support during the periods when the trail will close. There are an average of one to two helicopter landings a day.

“People will notice a flashing light on the path, and we ask for cooperation from trail users.

“We will also have security staff at the flashing lights and a temporary barricade, and I ask that people are respectful to them.

“They are there for the safety of our patients and to ensure the helicopter can land. If there are any people within the exclusion zone the helicopter will not land,” she said.

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Enhanced safety measures ensure the re-opening of Mackay Base Hospital's helipad, complying with CASA guidelines for secure helicopter landings and take-offs. Photo supplied: MHHS

On the 11th of December, a group of 16 workmates arrived at a restaurant for their Christmas dinner. One of the individuals in the group needed wheelchair access. Despite multiple confirmations with the venue that this would not be a concern, trouble arose. After multiple attempts to lift the 300kg wheelchair into the restaurant, they were unable to attend their booking and had to form a contingency plan.

Unsure of how their evening would unfold, they contacted Harrup Park Country Club and explained their situation. The reception staff on the phone understood the situation and were elated at the opportunity to help. The staff at Harrup Park were more than happy to accommodate the group, even though it was a last-minute booking during a very busy time.

When the group arrived at the country club, they were overjoyed to find bistro staff moving tables and going out of their way to make all necessary accommodations, so that the work colleagues could enjoy their evening, free of concern.

The group have since praised Harrup Park for doing so much to make the Christmas party special and ensure that everyone felt included and had the space to enjoy their night. They have also noted how accessible the building is for those in need of handicapped access, with ramps, toilets and the ability to order food without leaving the table.

Overall, everyone enjoyed their evening, even after the earlier hiccups.

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Harrup Park Bistro. Photo credit: Harrup Park Country Club

I’m eager to know and share in the festive joy!

I’m on a quest to uncover your ultimate Christmas traditions—whether they’re quirky, heart-warming, or downright hilarious. Why, you ask? Well, this year’s Christmas isn’t just about me anymore, it’s the first with our son, who will be almost 9 months old. I’m determined to create traditions that’ll make him giggle, ponder, and possibly spill his milk in astonishment.

What’s your festive secret sauce? Whether it’s an offbeat Christmas Eve ritual involving reindeer socks or a post-Christmas feast sandcastle contest, I’m all ears! Oh, and a burning question: in homes without fireplaces, how does Santa work his magical entry? Is there a secret kangaroo expressway we’re missing?

Traditions are the delightful sprinkles on the holiday cupcake—those quirky rituals that make our hearts merry. Take, for instance, my recent Kiwi holiday home where I tooted my way through the Kaikoura tunnels. Yep, it’s a Kiwi tradition. And just this week, as our home got a fresh concrete slab in the backyard, my little one's footprints and initials now grace our territory. I guess you could call it the foundation of our traditions!

Now, speaking of festive shenanigans, I’ve been invited to an Aussie Christmas blowout at a friend's family farm. Since my folks are far, far away, it's all about diving headfirst into the Aussie festivities! They’ve asked for a classic Kiwi lolly cake, but I couldn’t resist adding a touch of Kiwi flair with a pavlova. I'm also attempting my first trifle. Disaster or masterpiece? Only the North Pole elves know!

But hey, I'd love to hear about your Christmas traditions. Even better, share a photo from past years and tell me the story behind it at amanda@mackayandwhitsundaylife.com. In next week’s edition, our last for 2023, I’ll create a collage of your cherished traditions, capturing the true essence of this festive season.

We will also share a selection of Santa photos, so if you managed to grab a snap with the jolly man in red, send them to me with the names of everyone in the photo.

Here’s to traditions, magical memories, and sharing the laughter that truly makes this season magical!

Warm festive wishes,

Amanda

With Project Booyah

Nine young girls recently graduated from an action-packed Project Booyah in Mackay. The 16-week community-inclusive police mentoring program offered a unique blend of education, work experience, and adventure-based learning.

Teaming up with multiple local community groups, the cohort first collaborated with Mad Cow Coffee, who provided their time, resources, and knowledge, to teach our young ladies the skills required to make the perfect coffee over a four-week Barista course.

This not only earned the girls’ certificates for their resumes but also enhanced their communication skills and confidence. They showcased their coffee-making and customer service skills at Mackay’s Local Farmers Market, receiving positive feedback and some of the ladies have even obtained job interviews from their interactions.

Further expanding their skills, the girls attended the Mackay Woodturners Association for a crash course in woodturning, making hand-crafted wooden pens with guidance from experienced members. Frank and the Woodturners Association selflessly offered their time and resources to teach them the basics of using the lathe and other tools in the workshop. The final product was a hand-crafted wooden pen that gave the girls a sense of ownership and pride in what they had achieved.

The girls were also exposed to the world of virtual reality by Senior Constable Jaime Brooks, who delivered a Drive to Thrive Road Safety VR session, educating the group on road rules and safety. The girls enthusiastically participated, engaging in the session, and learning the effects of operating a vehicle while under the influence of an intoxicating substance.

To culminate an exceptional semester, Project Booyah Mackay partnered with Whitsunday Water Police to surprise the girls with a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Whitehaven Beach aboard Police Vessel Damian Leeding. The girls expressed their excitement and gratitude for the opportunity, building rapport with police officers and showing genuine interest in their roles.

Program Coordinator Senior Constable Keiran Horsfall was overwhelmed with pride seeing his cohort graduate and is excited to see what the future holds for them.

“Project Booyah doesn’t use a cookie cutter approach, we base our course content around the cohort that we have to achieve the best outcomes for them, “he said.

“The blend of education, work experience, but also knowing when to have fun is intentional. It’s not just about preparing for a job or school; it’s about preparing for life.

“The nine graduating girls have had a lasting effect on me and I’m certain the program will have a lasting effect on them.

“Seeing these young girls graduate with new skills and confidence is the greatest reward.”

Senior Constable Keiran Horsfall’s leadership, coupled with community collaborations, has not only empowered these young women with practical skills but has also opened doors to exciting opportunities and career prospects.

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Mackay Booyah girls making coffees with Sonia from Mad Cow Coffee

Booyah girls and Mackay Woodturners members with their handmade wooden pens

Booyah girls using the lathe to make wooden pens

Trying out the VR headsets

Mackay Booyah girls aboard the Damian Leeding vessel

Photo credit: myPolice Mackay

Nine young girls recently graduated from an action-packed Project Booyah in Mackay. The 16-week community-inclusive police mentoring program offered a unique blend of education, work experience, and adventure-based learning.

Teaming up with multiple local community groups, the cohort first collaborated with Mad Cow Coffee, who provided their time, resources, and knowledge, to teach our young ladies the skills required to make the perfect coffee over a four-week Barista course.

This not only earned the girls’ certificates for their resumes but also enhanced their communication skills and confidence. They showcased their coffee-making and customer service skills at Mackay’s Local Farmers Market, receiving positive feedback and some of the ladies have even obtained job interviews from their interactions.

Further expanding their skills, the girls attended the Mackay Woodturners Association for a crash course in woodturning, making hand-crafted wooden pens with guidance from experienced members. Frank and the Woodturners Association selflessly offered their time and resources to teach them the basics of using the lathe and other tools in the workshop. The final product was a hand-crafted wooden pen that gave the girls a sense of ownership and pride in what they had achieved.

The girls were also exposed to the world of virtual reality by Senior Constable Jaime Brooks, who delivered a Drive to Thrive Road Safety VR session, educating the group on road rules and safety. The girls enthusiastically participated, engaging in the session, and learning the effects of operating a vehicle while under the influence of an intoxicating substance.

To culminate an exceptional semester, Project Booyah Mackay partnered with Whitsunday Water Police to surprise the girls with a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Whitehaven Beach aboard Police Vessel Damian Leeding. The girls expressed their excitement and gratitude for the opportunity, building rapport with police officers and showing genuine interest in their roles.

Program Coordinator Senior Constable Keiran Horsfall was overwhelmed with pride seeing his cohort graduate and is excited to see what the future holds for them.

“Project Booyah doesn’t use a cookie cutter approach, we base our course content around the cohort that we have to achieve the best outcomes for them, “he said.

“The blend of education, work experience, but also knowing when to have fun is intentional. It’s not just about preparing for a job or school; it’s about preparing for life.

“The nine graduating girls have had a lasting effect on me and I’m certain the program will have a lasting effect on them.

“Seeing these young girls graduate with new skills and confidence is the greatest reward.”

Senior Constable Keiran Horsfall’s leadership, coupled with community collaborations, has not only empowered these young women with practical skills but has also opened doors to exciting opportunities and career prospects.

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Mackay Booyah girls making coffees with Sonia from Mad Cow Coffee

Booyah girls and Mackay Woodturners members with their handmade wooden pens

Booyah girls using the lathe to make wooden pens

Trying out the VR headsets

Mackay Booyah girls aboard the Damian Leeding vessel

Photo credit: myPolice Mackay

Petition To Halt Works

Residents of the region are encouraged to sign the ‘Save Eungella’ petition, to halt the proposed construction of a pumped hydro scheme, backed by the Queensland Government.

The petition is a part of Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry’s Save Eungella campaign and aims to preserve the rich biodiversity of Eungella for wildlife and the local community.

According to Ms Landry, the government is hastily pursuing a target of 70 per cent of renewable energy by 2032.

“However, in their urgency for renewable energy, both levels of government are jeopardizing untouched wilderness, valuable agricultural land and mental wellbeing of locals,” Ms Landry explained.

“In their rush to renewables, Labor is investing billions of dollars to build the world’s largest pumped hydro scheme right in the heart of one of Australia’s most diverse rainforest wilderness areas. It will completely decimate the habitat of iconic native animals, such as the platypus and northern quoll. Once Eungella, land of clouds, is under water, we will never get it back,” she said.

“Queenslanders are rightly concerned about how much these renewable projects are going to be affecting our wonderfully unique environments, particularly projects which will be constructed in one of Australia’s most ecologically diverse areas.

“Not only is this impacting the habitat of native animals, but it is also forcing locals from their homes,” Ms Landry said.

“Meanwhile, those residing in close proximity contend with devaluation of their land, disruptions to their lives, and the challenging toll on their mental health.”

Residents can find the ‘Save Eungella’ petition here: michellelandry.com.au/saveeungella.

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Charlene and Joe Slack with David Littleproud and Michelle Landry. Photo supplied

Mackay police have charged a 46-year-old woman following a two-year investigation into the suspicious death of a child at Munbura, near Mackay on August 29, 2021.

Emergency crews were called to a Munbura Road address on that date, after a four-year-old child, Tarrin-Macen O'Sullivan, was reported to have drowned in a backyard pool.

After extensive investigations through Operation Tango Anise, detectives will now allege the four-year-old child died before entering the pool.

Last Friday, December 8, detectives from the Mackay Child Protection and Investigation Unit (CPIU) arrested the mother, 46-year-old Tara Richardson, at a South Mackay address.

Ms Richardson has been charged with one count of murder (domestic violence offence) and one count of misconduct with corpse by interference.

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Tarrin-Macen O’Sullivan. Photo source: Facebook

Mackay Airport is celebrating Christmas early this year, gifting a total of $10,000 to five charities.

Each will receive their share of $2,000 of five different charities and not-for-profit organisations.

With the public able to vote for the charities up until yesterday, Thursday 14, the ‘Mackay Airport Making Christmas a Little Brighter’ campaign is aimed to promote and support smaller charities.

Mackay Airport Head of Operations Adrian Miles said the new initiative would aim to support lesser-known charities who may be overlooked during typical festive season fundraising.

“Charity donations are often more frequent during the Christmas period; however, community groups with limited marketing capacity often miss out on this much needed money,” he said.

“Many smaller organisations across our region do vital work that can improve people’s lives immeasurably. A donation to these groups can make a real difference to their bottom line and enable them to extend their reach to more people in need.”

“We plan to make this initiative an annual and evolving event. Along with providing financial support, we hope this campaign will help to increase awareness around the many charities and projects that are doing important work around our region.”

Each successful organisation will be handed a life-size cheque of $2,000 in the lead up to Christmas, delivered by a Mackay Airport representative and Santa himself.

The five public chosen charities will be announced on Wednesday, December 20.

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Santa Claus with Mackay Airport Head of Operations Adrian Miles, with the $10,000 cheque for charities. Photos supplied

She’s only 11 weeks old, but baby Rosie Connell already starred in her first role last Friday at Mater Private Hospital Mackay.

Rosie fulfilled the role of Baby Jesus in Mater’s annual nativity play, which has become a tradition at the facility performed for Mater staff and patients – and starring the children of Mater People.

Rosie’s mother, Mater Private Hospital Mackay Registered Nurse Jasmine Connell, said she was thrilled to have both her children starring in the nativity play for the first time.  

“Even though I’ve worked at Mater Mackay for 12 years, this is the first year that I’ve had the chance for my children to be in the nativity play, which is performed every year,” Ms Connell said.

“Rosie played baby Jesus while my eldest, who is five years old, played one of the angels.

“I’m on maternity leave with Rosie at the moment, but am normally a registered nurse on our surgical ward.

“One of the reasons I enjoy working at Mater is the family environment, which is reflected in the staff and our families being able to come together for the nativity play.

“I also feel the nativity play is a fantastic way to give insight to the true meaning of Christmas and Mater’s own Mission of providing compassionate care to our community.”

Mater Private Hospital Mackay Acting General Manager Chris Junge said he was proud the nativity play tradition was continuing.

“Mater Mackay’s nativity play has been performed annually for more than 30 years by Mater staff and their families, and is a wonderful opportunity for us to celebrate our Mater People, entertain our patients and visitors, and reflect on the meaning of Christmas,” Mr Junge said.

“Our Mater People embody our vision to empower people to live better lives – and in Mackay we are very proud to put these values into action and provide opportunities for our staff and their families to feel supported.”

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Mater Mackay’s nativity play has been performed annually for more than 30 years. This year, baby Rosie Connell starred as Baby Jesus. Photos supplied

Excitement was palpable in Mackay last week, with the Wiggles performing at the MECC, as part of their national The Wiggles’ Wiggly Big Day Out Tour. During the show, there was a special message, supporting the upcoming free kindy for 2024.

A partnership between the Queensland Government and The Wiggles, the advertising campaign showcased the free kindy initiative, beginning January 1, 2024 for eligible families.

It is estimated that 64,000 children will benefit from this initiative, and have access to quality early education program in the year before Prep, for 15 hours a week, 40 weeks a year.

Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert was excited to spread the message in Mackay alongside The Wiggles.

"Free kindy is a huge investment and historic reform from the Queensland Government which will see local Mackay families saving up to $4,600 per year,” she explained.

"It's important that Queensland families know kindy will be free, inclusive and accessible from the start of next year, so that every child can get a strong start to their learning."

"Who better to help us share this fantastic message, than Australian children's musical icons — The Wiggles?

"It's terrific to have The Wiggles on board to share this important message and inspire audiences to enrol in free kindy from 2024."

One lucky local family was also given the opportunity to meet The Wiggles in Mackay.

Families can learn more about kindy and use the Free Kindy Finder online tool to search for a free kindy location by searching 'Free Kindy Queensland.'

To find your local approved and free kindergarten, search 'Free Kindy Queensland' or visit www.qld.gov.au/FreeKindy

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Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert was at the MECC to help The Wiggles spread the message of ‘free kindy’ beginning in 2024