With the rising demand for healthcare professionals, many New Zealand nurses are setting their sights on Australia as an exciting career destination. For cities like Mackay, this is a win, as they continue to thrive as healthcare hubs, offering new graduates the chance to grow professionally in a supportive, dynamic environment.

In fact, 32 fresh-faced graduate nurses, including Stef Wickes from Greymouth, have recently started their careers at Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS), eager to dive into their new roles. Stef’s move across the Tasman is part of a larger trend of Kiwi nurses attracted by the opportunities Australia offers, and Mackay is proving to be the perfect place to embark on this next chapter.

Stef moved to Australia with a zest for adventure and desire to learn. She does admit she was surprised by the heat, arriving in Mackay at 10pm in January.

“The muggy conditions hit me as soon as I got off the plane– it’s still hitting me every day since,” she said.

“I didn’t really know where Mackay was – being from a small town in New Zealand, I didn’t realise how big Queensland actually is. My friend got a job on the Sunshine Coast and I thought ‘cool, we’ll be close’. Turns out it’s only a 10-hour drive!”

Stef is one of 32 graduate nurses who started their careers at Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) last month.

Originally from Greymouth on the west coast of the South Island in New Zealand, Stef did her three-year nursing degree at Ara Institute of Canterbury.

“At the start of my third year there was a lot of publicity about the lack of nursing jobs in New Zealand as the government had put a freeze on hiring staff,” she said.

“I was on my last placement in the Greymouth Hospital and my friend had gotten a job in Melbourne and thought I’ve always loved Queensland as I’d been to the Gold Coast on holidays.

“So I decided to apply for a post graduate program here in Queensland.”

The Mackay HHS recruitment team helped cement her decision to bravely ‘cross the ditch and work in Australia’.

“We're very lucky as a New Zealander that we're treated as Australian citizens essentially because of the Trans Tasman agreement, which is amazing,” she said.

“The Mackay nursing recruitment team were just so lovely and really supportive,” she said.

“Yes, I wanted adventure and to expand my skills in a different community, but it was really their encouragement to come over and how very easy it was to communicate with them and how responsive they were to emails and phone calls which really sealed it for me,” she said.

Stef has now completed her orientation and is looking forward to the challenge and ‘adrenalin’ of working in the emergency department at Mackay Base Hospital.

“So Mackay is quite a big hospital for me but I really liked that the health service here also offers rural hospitals as part of the graduate program,” she said.

“I’m from a rural town and that's the aspect I like. My last placement was in the ED in Greymouth and I loved it – but there was only four nurses there and seven beds, so it’s going to be very different experience here in Mackay.”

Stef is also hoping to spend some time in the health service’s rural hospitals.

“I love that in nursing you are building a rapport with your patients and you also get to see a lot of different stuff in the ED, so it’s all going to be a great experience for me,” she said.

“People really aren’t aware of the new grad program here in Australia and how it offers us the opportunity to get so much experience on the job, but also experience a different country.”

For now, Stef is focused on finding her feet in nursing, gaining more skills and acclimatising to a new country.

“I really like it here so far and everyone has been really lovely.

“Although on my first day of orientation I walked in not knowing a soul here which was a bit overwhelming,” she said.

“I introduced myself to the group and said my name is Stef. Some of them said ‘what?’ I said ‘Stef’. They said Stiff? I said ‘No Stef’.

“Guess I can’t escape my Kiwi accent here.”

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Kiwi nurse Stef Wickes embraces new challenges and adventures as she begins her career at Mackay Base Hospital, bringing her passion for rural healthcare to the heart of Queensland. Photo credit: MHHS

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Are you feeling overwhelmed by clutter? Taking small steps to declutter your space has proved to have a significant impact on your mental and physical wellbeing. As one of Queensland’s largest NDIS providers of mental health and suicide prevention support, Selectability is here to help you explore the transformative effects decluttering can have on your mental health

A tidy space can create a calmer environment, reducing stress and making you feel more in control. It can also provide relief from mental health challenges like grief, depression, or anxiety. When you declutter, you create room to think clearly and make decisions more easily, boosting your focus and productivity. Letting go of things that no longer serve you can free up space not only in your home but also in your heart, bringing a sense of freedom and happiness.

If you or someone you care about is struggling with hoarding or decluttering, asking simple, reflective questions like, "What does this item mean to you?" or "Could you live without it?" can mean all the difference, and open up important conversations.

Hoarding can be a complex challenge, but with patience, empathy, and the right support, healing is certainly possible.

If you're ready to take the first step towards better mental health, pop into Selectability’s safe and welcoming space at Sarina’s Mental Health Hub on Broad St. Since opening late last year, it has been vital in supporting the mental wellbeing of the local community. Whether you’re looking to connect, learn new skills, or make new friends, the team is here to guide and support you.

Visit selectability.com.au/sarina to learn more.

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Can you help give this pet a second chance of a loving home?

If interested in adopting, please contact the Animal Management Centre on 1300 MACKAY (622 529) or visit during opening hours 11.30am -1.30pm or by appointment.

For more information on Mackay Regional Council's pound pets, visit the website: www.mackay.qld.gov.au/poundpet

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By Hannah McNamara

Tropical Cyclone Alfred caused significant damage across southeast Queensland, leaving hundreds of thousands without power and triggering severe flooding. Amid the destruction, the state’s first responders, including SES volunteers from Mackay, worked tirelessly to clear debris, deliver aid, and rescue residents. Queensland Police and other emergency services collaborated closely, with more than 2,200 SES volunteers responding to thousands of requests for help. Their coordinated efforts, supported by volunteers from northern Queensland, showcased unmatched resilience and teamwork, for which locals will forever be grateful. As recovery begins, this disaster will serve as a stepping stone, with the community uniting to rebuild and emerge stronger together.

Queensland’s First Responders’ Heroic Response To Cyclone Alfred

In the face of destruction, Tropical Cyclone Alfred has wreaked havoc across southeast Queensland, but if there’s one thing that remains unshakeable, it’s the dedication and commitment of our local SES crews and First Responders who have dropped everything to serve those in need.

As 450,000 properties were left without power and floodwaters continued to affect many areas, the support of emergency responders and volunteers has persisted, and their efforts have not gone unnoticed.

As Cyclone Alfred made landfall, it unleashed severe rainfall and flash flooding, affecting both Queensland and New South Wales. The damage was widespread, resulting in the largest power outage Queensland has ever experienced due to a natural disaster. But even amid the chaos, the response from communities across the state has been astounding.

Mackay's SES volunteers quickly deployed to assist in the hardest-hit areas, leaving behind their families and responsibilities to join forces with Queensland Police, Marine Rescue Queensland, and other emergency services. Together, they cleared debris, delivered supplies, and conducted rescues in flood-stricken zones.

Queensland Police Service (QPS) officers, including 176 deployed to the Gold Coast, worked side-by-side with SES teams to ensure residents were as prepared as possible. Acting Police Commissioner Shane Chelepy expressed deep appreciation for the collaborative effort.

“This response reflects the strength of our partnerships across the service and the community, with police, staff, SES, Marine Rescue Queensland and others all working together to ensure our communities are as prepared and supported as possible.

“I want to particularly thank our colleagues from Far North Queensland, who are no strangers to these types of events,” Acting Commissioner Chelepy added.

“Their willingness to step up and assist is a reminder of the incredible teamwork and resilience our service demonstrates time and again.”

SES Chief Officer Mark Armstrong said, “We’re so appreciative of our northern members who’ve just gone through their own disaster event and have now come down to help out the southeast.”

A representative from the Queensland Police Service also thanked Central Queensland officers who had travelled to Brisbane to assist communities in the South-East that the severe weather had impacted.

“More than 100 extra police from Cairns, Townsville, Mackay and Rockhampton have arrived in Brisbane, to support South-East communities impacted by the severe weather event.

“Thank you to our amazing Central Queensland SES volunteers who are being deployed to South East Queensland to assist communities prepare for Cyclone Alfred.”

While the road to recovery is long, the strength and unity shown by Queenslanders in the face of this disaster will surely carry them through to brighter days ahead.

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Business Break-In – Mount Pleasant

Police are investigating a break-in at a business on Grandview Drive, Mount Pleasant, which occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, March 11.

At approximately 2:00 a.m., unknown offenders gained entry to the premises, where they proceeded to search through drawers before stealing a quantity of food items. No other property has been reported stolen at this stage.

CCTV footage capturing the incident has been obtained by investigators. Police are urging anyone with information that may assist in identifying those responsible to come forward.
Authorities are also reminding business owners to review their security measures and report any suspicious activity in the area, regardless of how minor it may seem.

Anyone with relevant information is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers or their local police station.

Missing Girl Located – Mackay

A girl reported missing from Rural View has been safely located, police confirmed on Tuesday, March 11.

Earlier in the day, an appeal was issued seeking public assistance after the girl was last seen at approximately 7:30 a.m. Concerns had been raised for her welfare due to her young age and the length of time since she had last been in contact with family.

Following investigative efforts and public support, she was found safe and well. Police have since removed all identifying details from the initial appeal.

Authorities have expressed appreciation for the assistance provided by the community and have reiterated the importance of promptly reporting missing persons, particularly in cases involving young or vulnerable individuals.

Fatal Traffic Crash – Valkyrie

A 69-year-old Mackay man has died following a single-vehicle crash in Valkyrie, south of Mackay, on the morning of Saturday, March 8.

Emergency services were dispatched to Fitzroy Developmental Road shortly before 8:00 a.m. after receiving reports that a truck had left the roadway and collided with a tree. Upon arrival, paramedics confirmed that the driver, who was the sole occupant of the vehicle, had passed away at the scene.

The Forensic Crash Unit has commenced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident, including possible contributing factors such as road conditions, fatigue, or mechanical failure.

Police are appealing to any motorists who may have witnessed the crash or who were travelling in the area at the time and may have relevant dashcam footage to come forward.

Anyone with information is urged to contact police and quote reference number QP2500408514.

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When we talk about the cost-of-living crisis, we think of families struggling to keep a roof over their heads, pensioners making impossible choices at the checkout, and young people priced out of the housing market. But there’s another group quietly suffering—one that can’t speak for itself.

Pets are the forgotten casualties of the housing crisis. Rental shortages, financial strain, and changing circumstances are forcing people to surrender their animals, sometimes with heavy hearts, sometimes with no choice at all. And when there’s nowhere else to turn, it’s the tireless volunteers at local rescue organisations who step up, night and day, to ensure these animals aren’t left behind.

Mackay Pet Rescue Inc. is a prime example. In just 48 hours, they took in 18 animals—abandoned kittens, a dumped puppy, a grieving pet facing euthanasia after its owner passed away. Volunteers spent those two days dashing between vet clinics, pet stores, and homes, setting and checking traps, feeding neonates, and making space where none existed. They’re exhausted. But they keep going, because if they don’t, who will?

With around 65 animals in care and more arriving by the week, the burden on these rescues is immense. And this is just highlighting the effort of one of our fantastic rescue organisations in the region. They need food, foster carers, and helping hands. If you've ever thought about getting involved, now is the time. Because while the housing crisis continues to displace people, it’s also leaving countless animals without a home—and without the dedication of local rescuers, their fate would be far worse.

Amanda

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We’re about 10 weeks into 2025 and although there have been some significant global  changes, in many ways there is a feeling of more of the same.

Politically, the big shift has been a new bloke moving into the White House. The funny old dude who used to aimlessly wander the halls hoping he would recognise someone has been turfed-out.

The resulting changes have been quite dramatic. Humans who are born with male bits and pieces can no longer play sport against women in the US. Foreigners who used to casually walk over the border from Mexico now need to ask for permission.

Other changes have had a global impact, particularly those relating to policy on wars in Ukraine and Gaza, climate change, manufacturing and tariffs.

Depending on your political persuasion, you will either support or condemn the changes, although none of us will be happy about increased tariffs on Australian goods. But whatever your political view, there is no doubt that the bloke in charge is a disruptor who wants to create change.

Whenever I start a new year in real estate, I wonder what sort of changes we will face.

Last year was the strongest I have experienced in my 13 years of selling real estate in Mackay. The median price rose by around 25 per cent.

So I was wondering, when I came back to work in mid-January, whether there would be a slow-down from the previous year. I can safely say that has not been the case.

There has definitely not been a change in intensity and interest from local buyers and investors. In my experience, the thing that has changed is that local buyers, both long-term residents and newly arrived people, are aggressively stepping into the market.

Last year investors from southern regions were dictating prices but I have found this year that locals have decided that they are not going to sit on their hands waiting while prices continue go up. They are jumping in and securing their properties.

Investors are still there and I get dozens of phone calls every week from southern buyers’ agents telling me they have a long list of buyers looking to invest in Mackay.

But locals are asserting themselves this year and the competition for the limited number of properties on the market is continuing to push up prices.

And the properties are selling quickly. Everything I have sold this year has gone under contract in one or two weeks.

When a property comes on the market, buyers are ready to pounce. Some of them have missed out on earlier properties and they are willing to make strong offers to secure the new one.

And the numbers at open homes have been astounding. Sixty groups of buyers turned up at one Gardian open house last week.

The tight rental market has also not changed and that is continuing to help drive the sales market.

Will the market continue to rise? As always, the demand for our steel-making coal will have a big role to play and what happens internationally will determine the strength of the economies of Mackay and Australia generally.

The US stock market has been strong but suddenly looks shaky. Could there be a US recession or is a Trump-led US going to boom and drive the world economy, including Australia’s?

One thing hasn’t changed this year ... I still haven’t got a crystal ball.

Sure, lots of talk but he’s no Nostradamus.

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To celebrate her son’s fifth birthday, a mother and her son headed to one of Mackay’s most cherished spots—The Dispensary.

“It was my son’s 5th birthday, and he wanted to go out for breakfast—The Dispensary is his favourite,” the mother shared with a smile, knowing this outing was the perfect way to mark his special day.

The two enjoyed a hearty breakfast, soaking in the atmosphere and the birthday joy, when they made their way to the counter.

But what happened next took them by surprise.

“I was so surprised when the staff member came over to let me know our table had been paid for,” the mother said, still in disbelief.

Overwhelmed by the kindness, she turned to a local Facebook community page in hopes of finding the generous stranger.

She posted, “To the beautiful stranger who anonymously paid for mine and my son’s breakfast at The Dispensary that morning, thank you so, so much.

“I wish I knew who you were so I could thank you, so hopefully you see this post!

“You have absolutely made our day with your kindness. Lots of good karma coming your way.”

This simple, beautiful act made an already special birthday celebration even more unforgettable, and it’s a day they will forever get to cherish.

How can you spread kindness today?

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The birthday boy enjoying his special day with mum at The Dispensary. Photo supplied

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This week I have the very exciting news that I have become a volunteer turtle carer for Eco Barge Clean Sea’s Inc. Currently I am looking after the lovely Betty, a juvenile green sea turtle.

Sadly, Betty has come into Eco Barge’s care due to two serious issues: she’s affected by a condition known as 'float' and has a significant boat wound on her shell. Her situation serves as a crucial reminder to boaters to take extra care when navigating near seagrass beds in Pioneer Bay and Airlie Beach. By reducing speeds to under 6 knots in these delicate areas, we can help protect these magnificent animals from preventable harm.

Eco Barge does an incredible job rehabilitating the turtles in their care, with the ultimate goal of releasing each one as soon as they’re ready. This past Saturday, I had the pleasure of hanging out with Betty, and it was lovely to see her with such a good appetite!

Over the weekend, we celebrated International Women's Day, and I had the honour of attending the Zonta International Women's Day Event. It was an inspiring gathering, showcasing many incredible women who have made significant contributions across various fields. One standout was Faye Chapman who was recognised for her outstanding environmental efforts, which you can read more about in this feature.

Please continue to email any of your environmental stories to ruth@lifepublishinggroup.com.

Happy reading!

Ruth

“We are the first generation to feel the impact of climate change and the last generation that can do something about it.”- Barack Obama

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For a plant, one of the harshest environments on earth is the intertidal zone. Half the day, inundated with salt water. The other half of the day, high and dry. 24 hours a day, strong tidal currents and crashing waves.

A tough place for a plant to survive. But mangroves are survivors. They thrive in these wild conditions that would quickly kill most plants.

How do they do it?

Through a series of impressive adaptations—including a filtration system that keeps out much of the salt and a complex root system that holds the mangrove upright in the shifting sediments where land and water meet

Not only do mangroves manage to survive in challenging conditions, the mangrove ecosystem also supports an incredible diversity of creatures. As well, mangrove forests are extremely important to our own well-being and to the health of the planet.

Mangroves form dense barriers against storms and tsunamis, saving lives and protecting property. They also provide us with many other important benefits; mangroves produce seafood, fruits, medicines, fiber, and wood. Up to 70% of all commercially harvested fish on the Great Barrier Reef, spend a part of their lifecycle in the mangroves.

They stabilize shores by trapping sediments and building land. They improve water quality by filtering runoff and polluted waters. They protect the climate by absorbing carbon dioxide and reducing the amount of greenhouse gas. All in all, researchers estimate, the world's mangrove forests provide human communities with many billions of dollars worth of free services

The question is: Will mangroves be able to survive the impact of human activities?

Despite their critical importance, mangroves are disappearing at an alarming rate around the world. Human development, port development, and aquaculture are rapidly replacing the mangrove trees and the ecosystems they support. There are a few places where mangrove cover is increasing. But, in just in the last decade, at least 35 percent of the world's mangroves have been destroyed. That is a rate of loss that exceeds the disappearance of tropical rainforests.

It is time to appreciate our mangrove forests. In Queensland, all mangroves are completely protected under the Fisheries Act 1994. Let’s keep it that way.

Contributed by Whitsunday Conservation Council.

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By Ruth Puddefoot

What is Native to Africa, has exceptionally long legs, has an erratic walking style, and measures just 5mm in length yet poses a serious threat to the environment? The yellow crazy ant.

This invasive species is infamous for forming vast ‘super colonies,’ devastating natural ecosystems by preying on native wildlife, including birds, frogs, insects, lizards, and mammals. If left unchecked, they threaten biodiversity, agriculture, tourism, and local communities and is listed as one of the world's 100 worst invasive alien species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.

Since their discovery at Shute Harbour near Airlie Beach in 2019, the Whitsunday Yellow Crazy Ant Treatment Programme has been working tirelessly to contain their spread.

Recently, Queensland National Park Rangers collaborated with over 30 field staff from the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area, Biosecurity Queensland, and Whitsunday Regional Council for a three-day intensive survey of yellow crazy ant infestations in Conway National Park. Their objective was to accurately map affected areas and refine the most effective control strategies.

The survey results showed significant progress in reducing ant populations, with only small numbers detected within Shute Harbour.

Complete eradication remains the ultimate goal, and sustained monitoring over the next five years will be crucial in confirming success.

Fast Fact:

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Crazy Ants may spray formic acid when disturbed.

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There's plenty happening in Bowen right now, with attractions for food lovers, adventure seekers and anyone looking for a great day out.

The new "360 on the Hill" restaurant at Flagstaff Hill will offer Aussie-Italian cuisine with stunning ocean views when it opens just before Easter. Enjoy breakfast and lunch featuring local Bowen mangoes, Mt Dangar strawberries and fresh seafood. On weekend evenings, they transform into a full Italian dining experience with homemade pizzas and pasta.

For water enthusiasts, the Bowen Marine Centre now provides guided snorkelling tours at Murray Bay reef and kayak trips through Cape Edgecumbe's mangroves, with all equipment and knowledgeable guides included.

Thanks to Whitsunday Regional Council, Rose Bay has received upgrades with new sandstone entrance features replacing the old wooden rails, a repositioned beach shower and additional seating areas.

Mark your calendar for March 15, the earliest possible launch date for Gilmour Space's rocket from Bowen Orbital Spaceport. This milestone event features Australia's first locally designed orbital rocket, a project year in development.

Entertainment options include the Speedway Season Opener on March 22 at Bowen Showgrounds and the inaugural "Soundzgood" music event on March 29 at Flagstaff Hill, featuring local performers with free shuttle service from Grand View Hotel.

Whether you're looking for new dining options, outdoor adventures or entertainment, Bowen has plenty to explore for your next day trip.

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Flagstaff Hill
Rose Bay Foreshore

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Dea, Emma and Ellie from the Tourism Whitsundays team joined the Airlie Beach Cruise ship Ambassadors and Bowen Tourism for a memorable outing with our wonderful friends at Pioneer Adventures. They were treated to a stunning sunset and coral viewing experience, cruising comfortably aboard their glass-bottom boat. This scenic tour is a true highlight, offering a unique perspective of vibrant marine life, all while enjoying the warm glow of the sunset over crystal-clear waters.

The evening was extra special as we celebrated the Cruise Ambassadors, whose dedication and passion help showcase The Whitsundays to thousands of cruise passengers annually. During the busiest month for cruise ships, it was refreshing to see this incredible volunteer group experience our beautiful backyard from a more serene vantage point.

Pioneer Adventures' glass-bottom boat is a great way to explore the underwater beauty of the region without getting wet. The boat allows guests to observe colourful coral gardens and tropical fish, all from the vessel's comfort. As the sun set, the sky transformed into a canvas of brilliant colours, adding a magical touch to the already stunning scenery. It was an unforgettable experience for all and a great way to spend a relaxing evening in The Whitsundays!

Contributed by Jade, Business Development Executive, Tourism Whitsundays

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The majority of people who have endured a life-changing traumatic event would likely focus on their personal recovery, but local hero Michelle Wardrope says she feels more inspired to help others than ever before.

Michelle tragically lost her leg last year after a soil-borne bacterial infection entered her bloodstream when she slipped and fell on her driveway following heavy rain.

Initially believing it was nothing more than a deep cut, she left the hospital with several stitches, but woke up that evening in severe pain.

Rushed back to the hospital, within less than 72 hours her leg was amputated, and she spent the next 13 days in a coma.

Eventually returning to her Whitsunday home months later, life had changed forever for Michelle and her family.

With limited NDIS support, Michelle’s husband became her full-time carer, and the family had to adjust to a new way of life.

However, instead of feeling self-pity, Michelle felt deeply grateful to be alive. She embodied an inner strength and positivity that not only helped her through the tough days, but also propelled her into a new and empowered way of living.

She exhibits this strength once again this month as she embarks on a 50-squat-per-day challenge, completing 50 squats each day throughout the month of March.

Most people would balk at the idea of 50 squats a day with two legs, but Michelle is smashing it with just one.

Now, almost halfway through the month, she is ready to share her story.

“I don’t really have the money to help the causes that I’d like to support,” Michelle shared. “So that’s why I wanted to try to do something that would help raise money instead."

“It’s been very, very hard, but it turns out that I’m getting way more out of it than I ever thought I would!”

So far, Michelle has raised just over $1,000, and all proceeds are going to the Royal Flying Doctors, the service that brought Michelle home once she had completed her initial recovery and was able to leave the hospital.

Looking ahead, Michelle invites everyone in the community to come down to an open parkland area in Airlie Beach on Sunday, March 30th.

This will be an opportunity for her to thank those who have supported her journey. There will be prize giveaways, a sausage sizzle, and an abundance of inspiring community spirit shared with all who attend.

Michelle is also issuing a challenge to anyone who would like to join her in completing her penultimate set of 50 squats.

Members of the Whitsunday Life Newspaper will be there to join in, and Michelle is also hoping to get representatives from the local council—perhaps even the Mayor—to participate.

“I’d love it to be like a Flash Mob Squats,” Michelle expressed. “Doing it with other people really uplifts me, and I’d love to share that feeling with others in the community.”

WHAT: Flash Mob Squats and Community Gathering
WHERE: Airlie Beach Foreshore
WHEN: Sunday, March 30th, late afternoon

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Shell Wardrope completing some of her 50 squats earlier this week
Shell with her family when she was in hospital after her leg was amputated

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Four weeks ago, a local lady was bitten by a Coastal Taipan while attending to the laundry underneath her pole home in Proserpine. Accustomed to living in a remote area, Kate Cross commented in her social media post to the community that "I have always lived on acreage and have been bitten, stung, and spiked by many things," once having even been bitten by a snake.

Due to this, following the initial bite, Ms Cross was not too concerned.

"It was early evening and dark, but the light was on. I was barefoot, planning to be there for just a minute. The bite felt like a sting, not unlike a wasp. While looking for the source, I saw a small, dark snake entering some nearby cardboard packaging. It was about 50 cm long and the thickness of my finger. I feel grateful that I saw it, as I might have guessed the cause of the bite to have been a spider, a more common sighting in that area," she shared.

"I called my partner to tell him that a snake had bitten me and asked him to bring the phone so we could take a photo. We commonly photograph snakes we see to confirm identification, and due to the bite, it seemed like a good idea.

"I was not concerned. It may have been shock or disbelief but I felt okay."

"I have been on this property for 25 years, and snakes are common. At least 90% of sightings have been tree snakes, pythons, or whip snakes. I was confident that an identification would confirm nothing more sinister than a lesser black.

Ms Cross commented that the snake identifiers were fantastic.

"Within six minutes, we had an approved ID. In the interim, we received directions to apply first aid and call 000. The clear and concise directions were helpful in this confused moment. A special thank you to the person who contacted Proserpine Hospital so the medical staff knew I was coming before the ambulance called it in. The community response meant that my partner felt supported, and I appreciated the kindness."

Symptoms started approximately 20 minutes after the bite.

"I began to feel intoxicated, poisoned, I knew then I was being affected by venom. My eyes were blurry, and I felt a little woozy. I had developed a bad headache and intense jaw pain. The ambulance arrived 15 minutes after the call, about five minutes after the onset of symptoms. By then, my symptoms had worsened and now included nausea, throat tightening, and vomiting.

"While traveling to the hospital, I contemplated what being bitten by a taipan meant, but I had no idea what my body was about to go through. It was shutting down!"

Once Ms Cross arrived at Proserpine Hospital her symptoms had escalated.

"The left side of my face had begun to droop, and I struggled to open my eyes. My left arm was weak, and my body began to experience muscle spasms."

When injected with the anti-venom she experienced an allergic reaction.

"I couldn’t see, my throat was closing, my muscles spasmed, and my heart was beating hard."

Immediately transferred to Mackay Base Hospital by CQ Rescue’s helicopter, Ms Cross spent six hours in the ED undergoing neuro testing, monitoring, blood tests, and fluids.

Overall, she was hospitalised for four days and rested for another 10 days at home in bed and has sustained some organ damage that unfortunately cannot be reversed.

Ms Cross finished her message to the community with the following: "I would like to thank everyone involved. There are many: the medical teams at Proserpine, Mackay Base, and Mackay Mater hospitals; the paramedics; CQ Rescue; the snake identifiers; the tea ladies; my family and partner; and the kind community that sent best wishes. Thank you!"

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