At Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network’s Monthly What’s Up Mate Breakfast

A crowd of more than 70 people stood in solidarity for the “best free breakfast in the Whitsundays” last Friday, as the smell of sizzling bacon, eggs, tomatoes and mushrooms wafted enticingly into the early morning air.

They were, however, standing in solidarity for more than a delicious breaky, it was an opportunity to gather together, reconnect and ask a simple but powerful question – What’s Up Mate?

What’s Up Mate?

What started as a small and intimate monthly breakfast gathering has gained momentum and has now flourished in numbers growing from attendees of around 20 to a whopping 70 people consistently over the last few months.

Held in the open carpark area outside the two host businesses – Shirtfront Solutions and Enzed – the venue is both central and casual, making it easy for people to come along.

“We wanted to make it quick and easy so there is less excuse if you can’t come!” joked Matt Stokes President of Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN).

“We’ve seen steady growth over the last three or four months and we’ve become known for having the best free breakfast in town!”

Matt added that, in addition to being an event where people can connect, it has also become a place for people to seek help.

“For me, by having these meetings, I’ve had half a dozen people that have come to me because they needed a bit of help. I was able to point them in the right direction, and a lot of it is just talking.”

Each ‘What’s Up Mate Breakfast’ includes a five minute impactful speech by a local invited speaker. Previously they have had talks about self-discipline, alcohol and trauma, and finding purpose in retirement.

On Friday they welcomed Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins who spoke candidly about his own experience with stress and shared advice on how to combat mental health issues.

“For myself, it hasn't been a clean run to where I am today. I've had to battle things like a previous marriage breakdown and that was a really tough time for me getting through that, as well as the loss of my father a number of years ago," he said.

“I just implore you to at least take some time to consider how you're feeling, how your energy is, your state of mind, and try and factor in some time each week to actually make sure you're looking after yourself.”

With suicide rates peaking over the Christmas period WSPN say now is the time to stay connected more than ever.

“Make sure you are not alone for Christmas Day,” shared Matt.

“There is a whole lot of people in the same situation and the longer you leave it without reaching out the harder it gets.

“We also compare our lives to what we see on social media so make sure you stay connected to family and friends, especially at this time a year."

If you would like to talk to someone about your own mental wellbeing reach out to Matt and the team at WSPN, or call LifeLine on 13 11 14.

You can view the photo gallery from last Friday’s What’s Up Mate Breakfast on page 29.

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A vibrant handcrafted artwork created through a blend of creativity, therapy and community spirit has found a new home at Cannonvale State School, thanks to the Whitsunday Leisure Activity Centre’s Connecting Community Through Art program.

“The artwork was lovingly created by participants of the Whitsunday Leisure Activity Centre's art therapy program, supporting NDIS participants and seniors,” a spokesperson for the Centre said.

The Centre recently donated a hand-painted vase filled with vividly coloured felted flowers, crafted collaboratively during its regular art therapy sessions. The project brought NDIS participants and local seniors together, working side by side under the guidance of Art Therapy Facilitator Jeudi Croker.

Each flower was carefully hand-felted, shaped and arranged by participants, while the vase was painted in soft, calming tones to complement the piece. T

he final artwork reflects not only the individuality of each contributor, but also the unity that emerged throughout the creative process. The finished piece symbolises hope, healing and the strength of community connection through creativity.

Representatives from Cannonvale State School said the donation was intended to bring joy and a sense of reconnection to the school community. They hope the colourful artwork will serve as a meaningful and uplifting addition to the school environment.

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Hello everyone

I hope you're all doing well.

We've almost made it to the end of the year and I hope you've all had a blast!

Just last week, our sister publication Hinchinbrook celebrated its first birthday—a milestone that’s especially close to my heart because I was part of the team that launched the publication last November, living in the region as their on-the-ground journalist for four months.

It was an incredible honour to be trusted with the launch, and I’m ecstatic that it’s thriving after its first year. I want to say a big thanks to Sherie for being such a wonderful companion and Sales Manager during my time there, and to Victoria for carrying on the brilliant writing that makes the paper so special.

In other celebratory news, I’m flying down to Adelaide next Wednesday for my sister’s wedding. She and her fiancé actually got engaged during their trip to the Whitsundays last year, and I’m really looking forward to being there. Family from all over the world are coming for the wedding next Saturday, and it’s sure to be a fantastic celebration.

After the wedding, I’ll be working from Adelaide, writing this paper remotely, and I’ll return after the New Year. So, it’s goodbye for now but I’ll still be around for a few more days.

Daniel

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Bowen Fire Brigade Faces Fiery Summer Day

Summer in the Whitsundays always seems to bring its share of extreme weather. While the Bowen Delta Rural Fire Brigade hoped the recent rain might finally signal the end of fire season, in their words, "Mother Nature had other ideas."

The brigade taking to facebook detailed that the 2nd of December was "probably [the]  busiest day of the year so far," with their first call coming in at 1:20pm for a small grass fire burning close to a home and two beautiful horses, fortunately, the brigades Attack Unit was able to get the fire under control pretty quickly.

Just when they thought they were in the clear, their Water Tanker responded to another job at Whitsunday Paradise, where a fire had jumped the highway and was threatening structures. Bowen Delta Rural Fire Brigade's attack unit, ATV and Support Vehicle also responded to the incident working tirelessly throughout the night to keep it under control.

Then, whilst crews were still working at that incident, another fire ignited at Longford Creek. Crews claimed this was the largest of the day, with multiple resources responding from Cannonvale, Proserpine, and even Mackay. Several structures were under threat and they recieved vital support from above with a helicopter called in to water bomb.

Unfortunately, the Fire Brigade believe that these fires have been "deliberately lit," though no formal statement has been made.

If you ever see anything suspicious, call 000 immediately. Community vigilance plays a huge part in keeping everyone safe.

Bowen Delta Rural Fire Brigade, thanked Brent, Jaiden, Mitch, Mick, and Ashleigh for their "hard work, dedication, and commitment to protecting our community."

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On November 22, community members gathered in Bowen to honour two World War I veterans whose previously unmarked graves were formally recognised with new headstones during a short ceremony.

Secretary of Bowen RSL Sub-Branch Marty Tanzer led the ceremony and said he didn't know why the graves were unmarked but that was irrelevant, what was important was what the RSL would do about it.

"This issue was first brought to our attention by a guy in Brisbane who is conducting research on the WW1 AIF 26th Battalion," he said.

"We then sought and received support from Lyn Burke who has done a lot of work identifying veterans from the Whitsunday area who lie in unmarked graves."

He added that the two that have recently been given thier headstones are laid beside three others Archibald Cheffins, Thomas Garside Barker and Charles Rainbird Rodgers.

The Bowen RSL applied to the Office of Australian War Graves for official commemoration for all five veterans and was successful in obtaining official commemoration for Archibald Cheffins, Thomas Garside Barker and Charles Rainbird Rodgers. The other two were found to be ineligible.

However with grant funding from the Whitsunday Regional Council the plaques were underway.

Now with their plaques finally in place, the stories of Private Edward Edwards and Lance Corporal Edward Henry Hammond can be properly honoured.

Private Edward Edwards, born in 1883, was a miner before enlisting in 1915. Serving with the 42nd Battalion, he fought at Messines, Broodseinde, Passchendaele, the German Spring Offensive, Hamel, Amiens and the St Quentin Canal, surviving gas attacks twice. He returned to Australia in 1919 and died in Bowen in 1938. He was 55.

Lance Corporal Edward Henry Hammond enlisted at 18 with his father’s consent and served in major battles including Messines, Passchendaele and the Spring Offensive. He later served in northern Australia during WWII. Hammond died in Bowen in 1977 at age 79.

Finally now, Private Edward Edwards and Lance Corporal Edward Henry Hammond have a fitting memorial to these brave soldiers who served their country.

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Regional Historian Lyn Burke lays a wreath. Photo supplied

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The Whitsunday Regional Council has welcomed new national data confirming \ the Whitsunday Coast Airport (WCA) is the fastest-growing airport in Australia, recording an outstanding 15.1% year-on-year passenger increase for August 2025.

The official Bureau of Infrastructure and Transport Research Economics (BITRE) results place WCA at the top of the country for annualised growth, well ahead of major metropolitan and regional airports including Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney and the Sunshine Coast.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the national recognition reflects the strength of the Whitsunday brand and the dedication of the airport team.

“To be recognised as Australia’s number one airport for passenger growth shows that our region is in demand and it proves our airport is the gateway powering tourism and economic growth across the Whitsundays.

“Whitsunday Coast Airport is one of Council’s greatest success stories, and this result is a testament to the hardworking team who deliver an exceptional passenger experience every single day.

“Every new passenger through Whitsunday Coast Airport means more local jobs, stronger tourism, and greater opportunities for our businesses and communities.

“This momentum strengthens our case for more government investment, new airline partnerships, and the future expansion needed to keep pace with our region’s growth.”

Director of Commercial Businesses Craig Turner congratulated the WCA team and highlighted the combined effort behind the result.

“Achieving 15.1% growth and placing us number one in Australia is an incredible accomplishment and a direct reflection of the professionalism, dedication and pride our staff bring to the airport,” Mr Turner said.

Mr Turner said the airport’s performance is a significant win for the wider Whitsunday region.

“This momentum is the product of teamwork, targeted route growth, strong airline partnerships and a united effort with our tourism and business community. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved and excited for what’s ahead.”

Mr Turner also said that big things are coming in 2026 with new destinations to be announced in the new year.

Whitsunday Coast Airport continues to outperform national averages, outpacing growth figures from major centres including Perth (3.3%), Brisbane (5.3%), Adelaide (5.6%) and Sydney (4.0%).

The next closest regional performer was the Sunshine Coast at 13.5%.

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Director of Commercial Businesses Craig Turner. Photo credit: R Jean Photography

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About 60 people attended the Annual General Meeting of Bowen Tourism and Business at Flagstaff Hill last Thursday.

This was followed by a networking event to celebrate a great year for the organisation. The committee members will remain unchanged for the 2025/26 financial year with Jenn Honnery continuing in the position of Chair.

Jenn announced that the team had welcomed a record number of visitors in the past 12 months and won several awards.

“With a record 56,360 at the Visitor Information Centre and a further 3477 visitors welcomed at the Front Beach booth, our staff and volunteers welcomed a total of 59,837 in the past financial year,” she said.

“In a world with rapid changing technology, some visitor information centres are facing the challenge of declining numbers, but we are bucking that trend and recorded a 9% increase in visitors”

Jenn mentioned that Bowen had been named the Top Tourism Town in Quensland, and that the Big Mango had been named the 'Best Big Thing' in the State. She also congratulated the team on taking out the 'Visitor Information Centre of the Year' award at the Queensland Information Centre’s Associations annual conference.

Jenn thanked the staff and volunteers for their dedication, along with the members and Whitsunday Regional Council for their support.

She said the organisation looked forward to continuing to work with the community to promote Bowen and the region, including working closely with Tourism Whitsundays.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins attended the networking event and congratulated the team on a successful year.

He said the success had continued since the financial year had ended with the team being named 'Community Champions' at the recent Whitsunday Business Awards.

He also spoke about the popularity of the coin featuring the Big Mango.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy spoke about the future, saying the team was currently working on a new website to be launched next year and a new edition of the very popular Bowen and Collinsville Visitor Guide.

Bowen Tourism and Business has more than 200 members including many from non-tourism sectors and operates the Bowen Visitor Information Centre next to the Big Mango and the information booth at Bowen’s Front Beach.

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In recent weeks, my fellow Councillors and I have had the privilege of attending end of year school award ceremonies right across the Whitsundays. These events are full of pride, joy and a wonderful sense of community spirit, and they are always among the most uplifting moments of the year.

But what has struck me most this year is not just the trophies, certificates, or applause. It’s the character of our young people. Whether they were walking across the stage to receive an award or cheering loudly from their seats, I saw the same qualities everywhere: resilience, kindness, curiosity, and a willingness to have a go. These are the attributes that shape strong communities, and our students demonstrated them in abundance.

Congratulations to all award winners being recognised for excelling. But I want all students to know that success is not defined by one night or one certificate. It’s shaped by the choices you make every day: the effort you put in when no one is watching, the discipline to keep going when things get tough, and the courage to be someone others can rely on. Those qualities will carry you far beyond your school years.

I also want to give special recognition to the parents, carers and families who fill the seats at these ceremonies year after year. Behind every confident young person is someone who has driven them to early-morning training, helped with homework, listened at the end of a hard day, or quietly encouraged them to keep trying. You are shaping the next generation of Whitsunday leaders, workers and citizens, and your contribution deserves enormous appreciation.

As Mayor, I am incredibly proud of the pathways our region offers young people. Whether it’s opportunities in tourism, aviation, hospitality, trades, agriculture, aquaculture, emergency services, health, marine industries or the booming events and sports sectors, the Whitsundays is a region where young people can build a future, start a career and stay connected to community.

Council is investing in facilities, masterplans and partnerships that continue to open doors for our youth, from modern learning spaces to community hubs, parks, sporting infrastructure and major regional projects.

To all our students: keep learning, keep serving others and keep backing yourselves. The Whitsundays believes in you. And your future, shaped by your choices and your character, is bright.

Well done  and keep shining.

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Locally owned and operated, Whitsunday Dash is a delivery service built on reliability, professionalism, and genuine community spirit. Established in June 2025, the business provides tailored transport solutions for both businesses and individuals across the Whitsunday region — from bulky and high-value items to time-sensitive deliveries.

Founders Tom and Sarah created Whitsunday Dash after years in the mining industry, driven by a desire to build something meaningful close to home.

“We saw a real need for dependable, flexible delivery services that understand our local landscape,” they said. “Starting Whitsunday Dash has allowed us to support our community while coming home each night to the place we love.”

The business services a broad range of industries including construction, retail, tourism, events, and commercial operations, as well as personal deliveries with every job handled personally.

“Our biggest point of difference is also our greatest strength; every delivery is managed by us. In an industry dominated by faceless logistics, we pride ourselves on clear communication, accountability, and doing the job right.”

Whitsunday Dash is also exploring in-kind sponsorships and local partnerships to support community events and organisations.

“We want to be an active, visible part of the community – whether it’s helping with festival logistics or collaborating with local businesses.”

As a new business, building connections from the ground up has been their biggest challenge. Starting with no established network meant they had to be proactive by reaching out to vendors, attending events, and introducing Whitsunday Dash by simply walking into our local businesses, shaking hands, handing out business cards, and letting people know what they do.

Persistence and local engagement have paid off. “We’ve found people in this community genuinely want to see others succeed.”

Now new members of the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Tom and Sarah say they already feel at home. “We’ve felt so welcome and are excited to be part of such a supportive network.”

Learn more: https://www.whitsundaydash.com.au/

Contributed with thanks to Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry

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Whitsunday Dash founders Tom and Sarah. Photo supplied

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Friendly Grocer in Jubilee Pocket is thrilled to announce the launch of the Tatts Lotto at their store, it's been in the works for months and now it's here.

Owner Nathan Parker said last week was the first week of the lotto at the store, and thinks this weeks $20 million will attract more players.

They offer all of the Lott games including scratchies, Set for Life, Oz Lotto, Powerball, X lotto, and all the others. The Friendly Grocer contains a total of eight games.

Obtaining the rights for the Tatts Lotto has been a long process.

"It took us a good four to six months and I went up to Townsville for a week of training," said Nathan.

"I had a registered training at an outlet up there, which was great experience. It was nice to see a busy outlet up there.

"There's a lot more to it than what it seems, it isn't just scan the ticket and sell.

"Having the Lotto here is great and it is a dream for us to make somebody a millioanire, or make multiple."

The Tatts Lotto is not the only new thing at Friendly Grocer, they also have your Christmas sorted.

Nathan said they are currently stocking decorations, table clothes, tinsel, baubles and they are even open on Christmas Day.

In more news they have also started new hot deli meals with six to seven meals each day ranging from curry to meatballs, and pies and sausage rolls.

With hot meals, Christmas decor, Tatts Lotto, and a wide arrange of produce and local products Friendly Grocer in Jubilee Pocket is becoming a one stop shop.

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Tayla, Theodore and Nathan Parker with Vikki Spicer. Photo sourced.

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The Misses Valmadres

The contribution of women to the growth of our shire was often underestimated and undervalued. However, from its earliest time, women were playing a major role in the development of the shire, not only in their customary roles as wives and mothers but as active, essential and successful members of the business community. Three such women were sisters, Erminia (Min), Mavis and Edna Valmadre.

In 1911, Battista (Jack) Valmadre and Margherita (née Cecini) moved to Kelsey Creek from Ravenswood where Min and Mavis had been born. Edna was born three years later.

While she was still quite young, Erminia (Min) moved to Brisbane and worked with her aunt, Nora Keane (née Cecini) who had established a dressmaking business in the city after leaving Ravenswood where the Cecini family lived. Min worked under the professional guidance of her aunt for six months to fine-tune her skills and develop her natural talent for dressmaking before returning to Proserpine to start her own business - perhaps the early twenties - in a little shop which was owned by Mrs Beames and situated near the Grand Central Hotel.

When Mavis and Edna joined Min, the business became known as M. Valmadre and Co. They worked from Dobbos building near the State School (then located opposite the Post Office). The building consisted of a central showroom and two side verandahs, one from which Harry Muller sold bikes and the other from which the Valmadre girls operated their business for some years.

On June 1 1935, “Proserpine Guardian” reported -

“The Misses Valmadre have opened a drapery business in the old ABC Bank building and have a new stock of drapery, millinery, hosiery, dress lengths and ladies’ apparel on display. The new business will be known as “Valmai Salon” where the latest in dress lengths and ready to wear frocks may be purchased at reasonable rates. A feature of the business is that dressmaking will be carried on as usual by Miss Min Valmadre and customers’ own material will be made up if desired.” (The site is now the premises of the Prince of Wales Hotel Bistro).

The Valmadre girls built up an enviable reputation and dressed their clientele with flair and distinction. Fitting rooms were set up in part of the living quarters at the back of the shop. Min did all the cutting out and fitting, Edna and Beattie Brown sewed, Mavis was in charge of the buying and selling with Rita Biggs/Fraser as the shop assistant. Mavis specialised in the beading.

Over the years, numerous local girls learnt their trade at the Valmai Salon and went on to do dressmaking in their own right. The museum archives contain some wonderful stories shared by local ladies no longer with us.

· On her father’s advice, Irma Pini (later Borellini) approached Min Valmadre for a job. Irma was thirteen at the time. Can you hold a thimble?” Min asked. “Yes, Miss Valmadre,” she replied, “We do a lot of fancy work at home with Mum.” “Come on in then – you can start now,” replied Min. Thimbles were an absolute must!

· Moofie Johnstone (née Paradies) recalled how they had to make crepe de chine bloomers, mostly by hand, especially for Mrs Valmadre - and always with lace around the edges!

In 1942, with the fall of Singapore, the bombing of Darwin, and the war entering a more dangerous phase for Australia, the Valmai Salon was closed when all three Valmadre girls joined the services. The Valmai Salon did not re-open after the war as the sisters moved in different directions.

Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum

L-R Edna, Min and Mavis Valmadre. Photo supplied.

Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine celebrated another year of community impact at its Annual General Meeting and Community Event on Wednesday 12 November, where the clear message was that the Whitsundays community remains the biggest winner of the Community Bank model.

Chairman Mark Henry said the success of the branch comes down to its unique “profit-with-a-purpose” approach.

“Our profit-with-a-purpose model means most of the profits generated by our branch go straight back into the community,” he said.

This year’s event featured a $1,200 prize pool recognising the contribution of local clubs. The Whitsunday Swimming Club, Cannonvale Cannons Swim Club, Choral C Voices, Whitsunday Outriggers, Whitsunday Cruisin Car Club, and Airlie Beach Football Club all took home prizes on the night.

Over the past seven years alone, the Community Bank has invested more than $250,000 into local schools, sporting clubs, conservation initiatives, arts programs, social services, and community prizes.

It’s an impact made possible thanks to the partnership between the branch team, shareholders and volunteer Directors who help guide the Community Bank, first established in the Whitsundays in 2012 after locals raised $800,000 to open the branch.

“Our ability to invest locally is thanks to our hardworking branch team, supportive shareholders and passionate volunteer Directors,” Mark said.

Sponsorship Applications Now Open
Local not-for-profit groups are encouraged to apply now for 2026 sponsorship funding, including bookings for the popular Community Bank BBQ Trailer. With limited funding and high demand, applicants are urged to prepare strong submissions.
For more information, contact secretary@whitsundaycel.com.au.

Thank You, Ross Hughes
The AGM also marked the retirement of long-serving Board Director Ross Hughes, who has dedicated 11 years to the Community Bank.
A former Deputy Principal of Proserpine State School and the 2013 Whitsunday Citizen of the Year, Ross has spent more than 25 years supporting the region through education, fostering, community music and volunteer service. His commitment to cultural, social, and educational causes has enriched lives across the Whitsundays.
The Board extended its gratitude for the compassion, leadership and generosity Ross brought to the organisation.

Welcome to New Director, Dr Julia Evans
The meeting also welcomed newly elected Director Dr Julia Evans, who brings a wealth of real-world experience to the Board. Julia has worked with state and national industry associations, major companies, and community organisations on governance and stakeholder engagement. Her academic research into small business education challenges been recognised and referenced by regulators, government agencies, and industry experts.

Many in the Whitsundays will already know her through her leadership role at the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry, as well as her work with the Whitsundays Writers Festival, where she has supported local business and cultural initiatives.

Julia joins current Board members Mark Henry (Chairman), Cait Fleming (Secretary), Krys Halsey (Treasurer), and Brendon Nothard.

Visit the Branch at Whitsunday Plaza Cannonvale or contact the team on phone 07 4948 3599 or email cannonvale&proserpinemailbox@bendigoadelaide.com.au

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Bendigo Bank Board: Brendon Nothard, Mark Henry, Julia Evans and Ross Hughes. Photo supplied

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Abbot Point Operations has been inducted into the Business Legends of the Whitsundays Hall of Fame, a milestone General Manager Damien Dederer says belongs to the entire team that keeps the North Queensland Export Terminal running.

While it is the first time Abbot Point Operations has received a Hall of Fame accolade, Damien noted the organisation’s long history of achievement across four decades includes major infrastructure milestones, strong community partnerships and environmental programs.

“We’re honoured to receive this award,” he said.

“We don’t do what we do for awards and accolades, but it’s lovely for the 190 men and women who work at Abbot Point Operations to keep the North Queensland Export Terminal running to be recognised for their hard work and what that work means for this amazing place we get to call home.”

On the night members of Abbot Point Operations leadership and community teams attended and Damien said having them share in the moment was a fitting tribute to what they do to deliver our Community Support Program and more.

When asked what set the business apart, he pointed to long-term collaboration rather than any single achievement.

“The successes Abbot Point Operations and the North Queensland Export Terminal have enjoyed are rooted in hard and collaborative work between private enterprise, the not-for-profit sector, and government over many decades,” he said.

“The Hall of Fame award is a reflection of that.”

He also highlighted the terminal’s economic significance, something he believes many locals may not fully realise. The export of Queensland’s high-quality thermal and metallurgical coal, facilitated by the terminal, contributes substantial royalties to the state budget. Locally, Abbot Point Operations workforce and contractors support hundreds of families, with flow-on benefits to small businesses throughout the region.

Damien extended his thanks to the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Bowen Chamber of Commerce Inc., and Whitsunday Regional Council for an event that both celebrates local business and strengthens community ties.

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Abbot Point Operations has been inducted into the Business Legends of the Whitsundays Hall of Fame

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Create Career Qualifications For Local Workers

A unique on-site apprenticeship program at the North Queensland Export Terminal is helping workers convert years of experience into formal qualifications while keeping jobs and skills in the Bowen region.

Five Bowen Industrial Hire (BIH) employees have now gained their Certificate III in Engineering – Fabrication (Surface Finishing) through the program, which Abbot Point Operations developed with BIH after the company won the protective coating contract for the Terminal’s offshore infrastructure in 2023.

Abbot Point Operations General Manager Damien Dederer said the initiative allows workers to earn, learn, and gain a nationally recognised trade at the same time.

“When we first contracted BIH, many of their workers had years of experience but no formal trade qualifications,” Mr Dederer said.

“BIH wanted to keep those local jobs secure and that sparked the idea for the apprenticeship program. We’re already seeing dividends, with experienced workers now recognised for their skills and young people stepping into careers they never thought possible.”

Blast Painter apprentice Jesse Brown said a school visit from BIH inspired him to join the trade.

“When BIH came to our school and talked about the Blast Painter apprentice program, I knew it was for me. I called them the next day and signed up,” he said.

“Now, heading into my third year, I’m still loving it and proud of how far I’ve come.”

BIH Business Development and Resource Manager Liz Little said the program has opened doors for both seasoned staff and new starters, from long-serving workers finally gaining formal certification to an 18-year-old apprentice beginning his career close to home.

“Both organisations share a commitment to live local and support local, and that’s what makes this partnership so successful,” she said.

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Apprentices from Bowen Industrial Hire working at the North Queensland Export Terminal. Photo supplied

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Whitsunday Mowers, located in Proserpine, is continuing to strengthen its reputation as one of the region’s most trusted outdoor power equipment suppliers, offering an extensive range and delivery of large mowers to Mackay, Collinsville everything in between and even the Islands.

Seven years after taking over the long-standing business, owners Wayne and Sharon Drabsch have transformed the former roller-skating rink into a bright, modern showroom now stocked with more than 30 zero-turn mowers and one of the widest Stihl product ranges in North Queensland.

Manager of Whitsunday Mowers Stephen Deller also said the store has recently had a reshuffle, allowing for more light to come into the store and display everything well.

The Proserpine-based business is run entirely by locals, with Sharon’s family history in the district stretching back six generations. “Everyone who works here is local,” said Wayne. “We support the community and they support us.”

Whitsunday Mowers services a wide area, delivering new and large machinery across the Whitsundays, into Bowen, Collinsville, Sarina and Mackay, and even coordinating dispatches for island resorts. Stihl brochures are distributed throughout these regions, reinforcing their commitment to customers living further afield.

“A lot of customers tell us they drive up from Mackay because they know we’ll have what they’re chasing.”

Whitsunday Mowers also has a complete workshop where Wayne, a fully qualified Mechanic will be found teaching their first-year apprentice Caleb Mount. The fully air-conditioned workshop allows staff to assemble, test-run and fine-tune equipment before it leaves the premises, they also have a grassed area out the back dedicated to trial cuts and equipment checks.

Repairs remain a major part of the operation, and priority is given to the brands the store sells to ensure fast turnaround times during peak mowing season.

“Once the rain comes, we’re flat out,” Stephen said. “People hit rocks, snap belts and everyone wants their mower back as soon as possible.”

Whitsunday Mowers now employs five staff and proudly sponsors community groups each year, including local schools and the Whitsunday Old Iron Restorers Club Inc.

They have a strong reputation in the region for expert advice, great product range and availability and friendly local service.

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Stephen Deller, Caleb Mount and Wayne Drabsch. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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