Almost 100 people attended the Sea of Pink fundraiser over the weekend in Collinsville with friends and family all coming together to raise money for breast cancer.

The format of the event was a 5-kilometre fun run and this is the second year the event has taken place with organisers hoping to make it an annual fundraiser for all the community to get involved with.  

This years’ event raised over $13,000, smashing the $10,000 goal they had set in place.

Organiser, Alice Randell, said she is thrilled with the result and is still expecting another $1000 to come in before the end of the week.

The Sea of Pink is a celebration for International Women’s Day while simultaneously raising money for breast cancer.

Due to Covid-19 the fundraiser became virtual and it continues to offer the virtual option for those who cannot attend the event in Brisbane each year.

This is ideal for the Collinsville community who can participate in this worthwhile cause from the comfort of the local region.

The Collinsville event was extremely popular and the 5k run or walk was accessible to all, with children on bicycles and parents running along with prams.

Members of the public are already expressing their excitement for next years’ event.

"There’s nothing quite like it in town, it’s the only one in town so people really look forward to it," said organiser Alice Randell.

“Seeing everyone up and early at 7am on a Sunday morning, really keen and in the spirit, was great to see!” she added.

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HERO – The local community in Collinsville got behind the Sea of Pink fundraiser in Collinsville again this year. Photos supplied

‍2: First to finish was Michael Delahunty

3: The kind volunteers from the Collinsville Country Women’s Association

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Bowen State High School student, Dasani Appoo will be among 95 Year 11 and 12 students from across Australia attending the 29th National Schools Constitutional Convention (NSCC), in mid-March.

Held at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House in Canberra, Dasani will be the second Bowen State High School student to attend the Convention.

Dasani is excited to participate in the Convention and is looking forward to meeting likeminded students from across Australia.

“I became involved with the National Schools Constitutional Convention by Miss Raylene providing the opportunity,” Dasani explained.

“I decided it would be fun and I took part in it with Danzel and Frances.

“I am extremely excited, but also nervous as I've never flown before especially alone.”

The Convention will pose a topic to the students to investigate, critically discuss and debate.

The 2024 topic for the Convention is ‘Section 96 of the Constitution allows the Commonwealth to grant funds to areas that fall outside those prescribed in Section 51. Should Section 96 be amended to decentralise the power of the Commonwealth?’

“The topic is simple,” Dasani explained.

“And I agree with the topic about section 96 of the Australian Constitution being amended to fit the criteria of section 51 and for it to decentralise the power of our Commonwealth.”

Following the students’ debates and discussion, the overall outcome will be incorporated into a Communiqué, that will be sent to the President of the Senate, Senator Sue Lines, for tabling in Parliament and recorded in Hansard.

Outside the Convention, Dasani will also attend an official dinner at the National Press Club, the Prime Minister’s Reception at Parliament House, and have a meeting with the Governor-General, the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retd) at Government House.

Principal of Bowen State High School, Robert Harris explained that he is proud of Dasani to be attending the Convention.

“I am very proud of the opportunities provided to all students at Bowen State High School to enrich their knowledge and experiences to prepare them for whatever post schooling endeavours they wish to peruse,” he explained.

“Overall, I hope this experience brings forth many more amazing opportunities and makes me and my community known,” Dasani explained.

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Dasani Appoo from Bowen State High School will attend the National Schools Constitutional Convention in March. Photo supplied

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One of the Whitsundays very own has been announced as the Regional Finalist for Translink Queensland and on the short list to become Queensland Bus Driver of the Year.

David Bussey joined the Whitsunday Transit team close to seven years ago, initially joining the team as a bus cleaner, before being promoted to a service bus driver one year later.

A dedicated team member and avid driver, David, more affectionately known as ‘Buzz’, enjoys sharing local history and fun facts with his passengers, which has earned him a lot of recognition and praise.

“The word I would use to describe being a bus driver is - amazing!” Buzz explained.

“I enjoy driving buses because I love interacting with people, trying to advise them on the local area, get them to or from the destination safely.

“And I just love driving.”

Surprised by the nomination of the state award, Buzz immediately called his mum.

“To be nominated for Bus Driver of the Year Award, I'm overwhelmed.

I really enjoy the job. It's mind blowing,” he explained.

“When I first found out I was nominated for Bus Driver of the Year Award, I rang up my mum and told her, and she was overwhelmed and crying over the phone.

“The fact that Mum kept on saying ‘I'm so proud of you, even more Dave’.

“Which means a lot because I love my mum to death, as everybody does.

“If I won the award, it would be good for my moral support, the business support, the “local support,” Buzz said.

To vote for Buzz, visit translink.com.au/driverawards. Voting closes April 8.

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Caption: Buzz the bus driver has been nominated for Queensland Bus Driver of the Year. Photo supplied

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Despite the weekend’s weather challenges the Cut Out Party in Proserpine was a huge success.

Close to 200 people gathered at the Proserpine Showgrounds to celebrate the sugar industry which is marking its third year.

This time around the event supported the Royal Flying Doctors Service.

As of the time of going to print, there was no official number announced but organisers are expecting funds raised to be upwards of last years’ $38,000.

“It’s been a real community effort; you don’t know when you’ll need the support of the Royal Flying Doctors Service,” said treasurer Amanda Hadlow.

Amanda showed her gratitude towards the public supporting the event saying she is really appreciative of the support for the sugar industry and public coming together in the community.

A variety of items were auctioned off on the night, most notably being, fire pits, a signed North Queensland Cowboys, accommodation vouchers and local adventure activities which included the Crocodile Safari, Ocean Rafting and sailing experiences.

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Tony Price

Division 2 Candidate

High-rises in Airlie Beach – what are your views on allowing more to be built in our local holiday town?

The Whitsundays is facing a critical housing and accommodation crisis that threatens our growth and prosperity. We have inadequate housing for our valuable staff and a shortage of top-quality accommodation. I support council’s existing Town Plan which outlines Highrise limits for Airlie Beach. It’s vital that Council supports developers and works towards some quality, medium density highrise accommodation enabling tourism/retail/hospitality opportunities underneath. We need to work together to ensure the relationships between council, developers and the community are positive.

 Hamilton Plains often floods cutting off access to the hospital and airport - how would you advocate for better infrastructure so residents have access?

It has been announced that a $21Million upgrade to Hamilton Plains has been approved with the Federal Government contributing 80 per cent and State 20 per cent with work expected to commence in Mid-2024. We need to ensure it happens. The back road to Proserpine through Strathdickie often floods at Crofton Creek so this should also be addressed. Talking hospital, it’s time Council pressed the State Government to plan for an Emergency Hospital near Cannonvale so any crisis can be avoided.

 The Bowen Jetty – what would you like to see happen with this community asset in the future?

This could be a wonderful attraction if developed in the right manner. If upgraded to its former glory, wouldn’t it be great to see a Whitsunday boating operator picking up guests from Bowen and bringing them to Cape Gloucester/Montes, Airlie Beach and back? The Jetty is a Bowen icon and should be preserved in some form if possible. It’s great to see North Queensland Bulk Ports providing residents an opportunity for feedback to ensure a win-win result for Bowen and the heritage-listed jetty. 

 Ted Cunningham Bridge – where do you think fault lies with this situation and how would you have managed it better?

I don’t have access to all the details that current councillors would have regarding Ted Cunningham Bridge but from community discussion I understand that the approach should have been built with concrete instead of gravel and bitumen. Common Sense in Council has always been my motto and fast-flowing water will always be an issue so better planning and design should be looked into. It’s vital that the approach be reinstated securely as it’s a lifeline for many graziers and businesspeople.

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Ry Collins

Mayoral Candidate

High-rises in Airlie Beach – what are your views on allowing more to be built in our local holiday town?

My views are plain and simple with regards to high rise and any development in our region - we need to be assessing them in accordance with our planning scheme. If that planning scheme isn’t fit for purpose anymore then we need to be engaging with our community to really understand exactly what it is that they want, and how our town should look.

Hamilton Plains often floods cutting off access to the hospital and airport - how would you advocate for better infrastructure so residents have access?

I’ve got a very good background in advocacy, good relationships with the State Government and what I’ve already committed is within my 90 days that I’ll meet with transport minister Bart Mellish to discuss Hamilton Plains along with our other key roads that are problems in the region and really develop a plan for how we address these.

The Bowen Jetty – what would you like to see happen with this community asset in the future?

The Bowen jetty, is an important piece of Bowen’s history and I’ve had the luxury of being heavily involved with the project already, through my existing relationships in Bowen and with North Queensland Bulk Ports. Really for me it’s all about connectivity, its ensuring that we have an asset there that adjoins the Bowen foreshore and is able to connect back through to our main street of town.

Ted Cunningham Bridge – where do you think fault lies with this situation and how would you have managed it better?

It ultimately comes down to communication to me. From my perspective someone needs to take leadership on this issue and really look to connect the dots between what’s going wrong from a contractor perspective and make sure that the needs of the community are addressed.

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Richard Evans

Mayoral Candidate

High-rises in Airlie Beach – what are your views on allowing more to be built in our local holiday town?

There are two parts to this question – do we need high quality 5-star tourist accommodation? And is there a shortage of housing in the Whitsundays?

Firstly, we don’t need to be the Gold Coast. I think the 12-story development is a mistake. The community clearly doesn’t want it and questions remain about process. However, we do need properly planned 5-star developments.

We also need housing, and we should consider high density housing to accommodate the demands of the community. 

 Hamilton Plains often floods cutting off access to the hospital and airport - how would you advocate for better infrastructure so residents have access?

To have any community cut off during wet season is totally unacceptable. The state government has approved works over 12 months ago, and yet there is no action. Indeed, the TMR is negligent in the manner it maintains roads across the Whitsundays. The potholes on our major roads are a disgrace.

Desk thumping advocacy is required and in an election year there is a perfect opportunity for us to get action. We need to improve the attitudes of the TMR.

 The Bowen Jetty – what would you like to see happen with this community asset in the future?

Bowen Jetty is an important historical location, and the community wants it saved. However, saving it should be part of an entire development of Bowen Wharf, harbour, and foreshore. In consultation with the community, we must look at opportunities that may exist for development beyond just saving the Jetty, such as dry dock facilities. The Jetty cannot be a stand-alone project and we need to work to provide facilities that incorporates it.

 Ted Cunningham Bridge – where do you think fault lies with this situation and how would you have managed it better?

The Bridge and its complex aftermath are problematic of my issues with Council making decisions. Clearly the management of the project remains inadequate with no accountability taken. This tells me a culture of chaos exists where no-one takes responsibility. If this lack of responsibility exists in a project, then that culture permeates throughout the entire operation. I think the bridge is emblematic of culture and systems in place that at times wastes money. I’ll bring accountability culture to council.

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Phil Batty

Mayoral Candidate

High-rises in Airlie Beach – what are your views on allowing more to be built in our local holiday town?

We already have high rises, nine and a half stories over at the Sebel but its hidden against the hill. So, I’m not against high rise per say, but, I am against high rises sticking out in the middle of the foreshore and the precedent it sets for the rest of the town, because there are people that are sitting on land projects that are waiting to get final approval so they can build higher. I don’t want to see that; I think the foreshore needs to stay as it is and I think there’s opportunity to build higher density than high rise.

Hamilton Plains often floods cutting off access to the hospital and airport - how would you advocate for better infrastructure so residents have access?

In the 22 years that I’ve been here, every four years, somebody says they’re going to fix Hamilton Plains as part of their election campaign and every four years somebody else says that they’re going to do it but it never happens. I think I can get that over the line and get that fixed. The main plains that are flooding are 450 metres long, if we can’t fix the 450 metre stretch of flood plain then I think there’s something missing somewhere. There’s an election coming up in October, state elections, the Government in charge will start allocating funds.

The Bowen Jetty – what would you like to see happen with this community asset in the future?

I walked Bowen Jetty only a couple of months ago from end to end, it’s in a state of disrepair but I don’t think it’s beyond the point of salvage. The plans at the moment are about demolishing it and building a new one and I don’t think that necessary. I walked Bowen CBD yesterday and talked to some shop owners and one of the things that came up was a really simple fix for livability. They wanted to see some fishing rod holders and bait stations down the jetty and maybe a few seats so people can sit down and to me that’s a very simple $10,000 fix. Why can’t we just get it done and move on and get it sorted? But I think the jetty’s got loads of potential if the surface that’s starting to deteriorate is repaired you can have cafes, you can have marine signs, you can have all sorts of things on that jetty without going to the disruption of knocking it down.

Ted Cunningham Bridge – where do you think fault lies with this situation and how would you have managed it better?

Difficult question and subject to a court case probably although the council say they’ve had some without prejudice discussions with the designers and the builders of the bridge. The span of the bridge simply wasn’t long enough and the lead in and lead out was the biggest issue. It wasn’t going well, it washed away in four days. Somewhere between the original designer, the construction company that actually built the bridge, and the council that provided the lead in and lead out of the bridge. Somebody has to be held liable and responsible. I’m not sure how in the legal sense that’s playing out at the moment but for something that cost millions of dollars to wash out in four days means that it’s a serious issue and somebody needs to step up and find out who it was and get it fixed and get them to pay for it.

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Clay Bauman

Division 2 Candidate

High-rises in Airlie Beach – what are your views on allowing more to be built in our local holiday town?

I support developments that embrace Airlie’s unique charm. We don’t have "high-rise". I believe the court approval, laden with limitations or “killed with conditions”, will probably never be built. My aim is for the Council to collaborate, not conflict, with both community and developers who genuinely appreciate Airlie's special character.

Hamilton Plains often floods cutting off access to the hospital and airport - how would you advocate for better infrastructure so residents have access?

Our priorities are clear and must be communicated concisely to the State, through our Mayor. With 77 councils all having wish lists, councillors making individual requests to Ministers, risks creating confusion. A unified and coordinated approach from our Council will strengthen our voice and ensure our needs are heard effectively.

The Bowen Jetty – what would you like to see happen with this community asset in the future?

For me preserving the jetty's history and character is key. Given the high repair costs I’ve heard bandied about, restoring the original timber of a shorter jetty with desired improvements would be most feasible. I think this approach could maximise the jetty’s potential within the $50 million budget currently available.

Ted Cunningham Bridge – where do you think fault lies with this situation and how would you have managed it better?

After reviewing the email exchange and an expert report post-washout, it's clear to me that the contractor underestimated the flood water’s impact. My priority is reopening the bridge and avoiding a costly court battle over blame. I think giving clearer instructions and contracts in future could prevent such problems again.

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John Compton was a pioneer of the Proserpine district - the very first Chairman of the Proserpine Shire Council (1910) and a mover and shaker in the separation of Proserpine from Wangaratta (Bowen Rural Shire).

Born in Herefordshire England March 14 1865, he migrated to Bowen in 1883. Though working in the Bowen district, in October 1884 he purchased 160 acres of land at Mt Julian (called “Fern Hill”).

In 1893, he married Sarah Gray and together they travelled to stations where John, a proficient carpenter, constructed stockyards and homes. In 1895, the Compton family settled on a 50 acre block on Glen Isla estate. At that time, plans were underway for progression in the sugar industry. In the early 1900s, John and his family moved to his farm “Fern Hill” described in his son Alex’s diaries, as being “two square miles and (extending) as far as Palm Creek on one side and Proserpine River on the other.” John Compton started clearing land in time for the first crushing at Proserpine Sugar Mill in 1897. It was wild country in those days.

John also purchased land in Proserpine’s Main Street (portion 193) and also owned a farm named “Auburn” in the area where Proserpine’s Hospital and Fresh Fields Shopping Centre now stand.

A story of many firsts …

In 1896, John Compton was one of the first shareholders in the Proserpine Central Sugar Mill and was one of the first suppliers of cane to the mill when it opened in 1897. In 1908, the “Port Denison Times” described him as one of the largest canegrowers in the district.

John Compton was one of the original members of the Proserpine Progress Association (1897) and an active member of the Hospital Committee in its early years.

As an early Proserpine representative on the Bowen - Proserpine Tramway Board, he made many visits on horseback to meetings in Bowen agitating for a separate shire for Proserpine. His dream became a reality when the first meeting of Proserpine Shire, newly separated from Wangaratta, was held on March 11, 1910 and he was elected its first Chairman. It was a fitting reward that he held this position when the Bowen – Proserpine Railway was opened later that year.  

The first church to open in Proserpine, the Presbyterian Church, was built on land donated by John Compton and the first show was held in that same year (1899) in his shed on his land on the corner of Main Street and Herbert Street. The community picnic held to celebrate King George V’s Coronation was also held on this spot in 1911.

In 1913, the first Council Chambers was established in a building in Main Street that was purchased from John Compton.

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The ensuing years of John’s life were characterised by a propensity to shift about. After building a house on his “Auburn” farm in town, he sold his Mt Julian farm (circa 1915). Just prior to this, he purchased 10 acres of farm land from G A Waite to add to the town property. Then in 1920, he sold “Auburn” moving further down to another farm, “Yelvertoft”, in the vicinity of what is known today as Glen Isla turn off.

In 1922, John sold this and moved the family to Warwick however a few months later they returned to Proserpine due to his ill health. Still owning a residence in Herbert Street, the family remained there until John’s pioneering spirit impelled him to take up 150 acres at Banana Pocket (now known as Lethebrook) where he once again built a new home and cleared land to grow cane.

After a life of hard work and service to the Proserpine district community, John Compton died on July 27 1932

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Story and photo courtesy Proserine Historical Society.

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Caption: John Compton - the very first Chairman of the Proserpine Shire Council (1910)

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Peter Hinschen

Cannon Valley

I'd like to see a freeze on rates, every year they seem to go up. A freeze on rates and I’d like know before the election what their intentions are in dragging that wind farm between here and Collinsville. I think someone should come forward and let us know whether they want to approve it. That’s my opinion.

Liz Pearson

Cannonvale

I think the first thing is obviously the roads and the main town of Airlie Beach it's just, Airlie Beach is abysmal, you know, for a tourist town, it just looks terrible. From cleaning up the footpaths to making it tidy, to uplift it and just to be listened to about those kind of things. And every year at Christmas we don’t get any decorations, things like that. It's a simple thing, you know, we're a great town. And yes, we need that uplift.

Alan Steffes

Bowen

I’ll give you a prime example, I’m looking at going to the counter, you know what the girl told me? I can’t help you otherwise I’ve got to help everyone else, so guess how many people had their hand up, just me. I want to be more talked to, don’t go palming me off saying ‘oh I can’t help you, or I’ve got to help everyone else’. And I’d like more things for kids but other than that they’re not too bad and well potholes, that’s just part of life.

Sheena

Cannonvale

I don't think they do enough for senior people. So, anything from the new council will be good.

They have senior classes in Bowen, why can't they have them here? I've asked the previous council or previous mayor. She wasn't able to help at all. That's my main concern. Otherwise, they're pretty good, I think.

Noel Wolsten

Brandy Creek

Well, I just want development to be less commercial. I don't want any high rise. I think we're already at saturation point with development in the foreshore anyway. I've been here for 50 years and it’s just not the same place. I know progress, it happens everywhere but it just goes beyond. I just want them to be gentle with the nature.

Wayne Bolitho

Cannon Valley

The interest of the local government has been the bloody high rise down the road and apparently its gonna happen anyway. A high rise that close, I don’t think that’s good policies. At Surfers Paradise, it’s all high rises but they don’t see it being an issue, and it’s all been approved, council approved it, council even went to court over it to try and get it approved, so yeah I don’t really like it. You know what I want as priorities? Roads and rubbish.

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In 20 years, the population on the Whitsunday Coast (Cannonvale/Airlie Beach area) has almost doubled while the infrastructure to support that growth has never happened.

What I bring to the table is an ability to fight for more than a fair share for Division 2.

I’m about getting things done in the area, not endlessly trying to find a reason to say no or put-up roadblocks to stop something that will help our region grow and prosper.

10 Reasons to Vote 1 Tony Price for Division 2

1:

Pro-Business: I have been in business in the Whitsundays for 45 years and totally support the business, tourism and development sector.

2:

The Big Picture: I am dedicated to ensuring vital infrastructure is established and planned for through council initiatives, state/federal support or private investment including improved road infrastructure, Aged Care facilities, planning for a State High School and Emergency Hospital near Cannonvale and sporting/recreation and leisure facilities.

3:

Action on housing and accommodation: We’re losing highly trained workers and their families. There are hundreds of lots approved but not developed in the Cannonvale corridor. A stumbling block is two major round-abouts. Let’s meet with the developers and Main Roads to find a solution and bring properties onto the market.

4:

Unparalleled Local Knowledge: I know the area from the Whitsunday Islands to the Coal fields so understand other divisional needs when it comes to negotiations to ensure the best result for Division 2.

5:

Proven Councillor Experience: I was the Division 2 Councillor for two terms, serving on several boards including Tourism Whitsunday and North Queensland Economic Development Board.

6:

Effective Communication and Negotiation: I know all four unopposed elected Councillors. I was able to get things done as a Councillor as I could work and reason with other councillors for the best possible outcomes for Division 2.

7:

Tenacious Advocate: I helped organise the ‘Save our Airport’ protest and secure funding for projects including Airlie Lagoon and PCYC I am willing to stand-up and make some noise for the Whitsunday Coast’s rights and future.

8:

Grounded in Common Sense: After 45 years in business, I can see the issues clearer and make decisions based on logic and a positive outlook.

9:

Family Values: I raised my four children in the Whitsundays and have 11 grandchildren (1-21 years) – I know what the community wants and expects from their local representative.

10:

Community focused: I started the Cannonvale Airlie Beach Junior Rugby League so kids on the Whitsunday Coast had an opportunity to train and play closer to home. Recently we donated $6,000.00 to junior sporting clubs in the area following a sports reunion.

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Authorised by Tony Price, 34 Faust Street Proserpine, QLD 4800

Tony Price presenting a cheque of $6,000 to junior sporting clubs in the Whitsunday area after a Reunion in Airlie Beach. Photo supplied

Sarah Watson From Lightning Comms

Star sign: Capricorn

Fav Colour: Green

Fav holiday destination: Fiji

Fav quote: Life’s too short to drink bad wine.

Describe your personality in three words: Focused, loyal, compassionate

Sarah Watson is the shining force behind Lightning Comms, a business she runs alongside her husband. She takes on a multitude of roles, including office manager, all-rounder and helping hand on site when needed. The businesses specialises in information and communications technology and security. And while it is quite a specialised field with technology constantly changing and products forever evolving, Sarah and her team consider themselves to be experts in the field and are dedicated to ensuring their work is consistently up to date.

The team work on residential, commercial, government and school projects and are certified cablers for two different data cable brands which allows the company to offer 25-year warranties on the cabling systems installed.

In light of International Women’s Day, Sarah is proud to be a woman in business as she role models for her children that “whatever goals they have or want in life, if they try hard and give it their all, they can achieve them.”

Although Sarah owns her own successful business, she touches on the influences around her, like her mother and mother-in-law who both have strong work ethics, giving 110 per cent into their work. Both these women have played a big part in Sarah’s devotion and dedication to her very own career journey.

With an ever-growing business, Sarah often finds it hard to balance home and work life but understands the importance of family time and is a pro at organising meal plans, groceries, home planners for activities, appointments and extracurricular activities throughout the week.

Sarah finds joy in spending quality time with her husband Sam and three children, Ruby, Xavier and Willow along with their beloved cat Eddie. She also loves relaxing with a good glass of wine.

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Jade Richardson from Tourism Whitsundays

Star sign: Cancer

Fav Colour: Light Blue

Fav holiday destination: Anywhere with a beach

Describe your personality in three words: Kind, passionate, enthusiastic

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given? from Robin Sharma: “A burning sense of passion is the most potent fuel for your dreams.”

Coming from a small coastal country town in South Australia called Yankalilla, Jade moved to the Whitsunday region seventeen years ago and says she is here to stay after falling in love with the area, claiming it to be a perfect place to raise kids, live a good life and stay connected to all of its natural beauty.

Combining her love for nature and all things Whitsundays, Jade is now the Membership and Marketing Coordinator at Tourism Whitsundays and is fully dedicated to establishing quality communication with members, both current and prospective. The organisation is deeply committed to showcasing the Whitsunday region as a tourism destination and works hand in hand with Tourism and Events Queensland and the Whitsunday Regional Council to lead the marketing efforts.

Jade reflects on the importance of International Women’s Day and what it means to her as she touches on her pride in being part of a predominantly female team. As a woman in business, surrounded by many other strong, intelligent, and goal-focused women, Jade is reminded daily of what can be achieved with an abundance of focus and inspiration in the workplace. Jade was left inspired by Naomi McKinnon’s leadership and focused work ethic, she learnt that regardless of how life changes we can rebuild incredible futures for ourselves and our children. Most of all Jade is inspired by the everyday leaders of her community.

When she’s not chasing her career dreams, Jade likes to take her kids to the beach for rock walks and enjoys outdoor activities.

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Wendy Bickhoff

Star sign: Virgo

Fav Colour: Blue

Fav holiday destination: Tasmania

Fav quote: When one door closes another one opens.

Wendy Bickhoff was born in Bowen with a heritage line dating back to 1863 when her family arrived on the first migrant ship in North Queensland from England.  She attended school through to grade 10 until she joined the workforce at a local IGA, and later worked in a Pharmacy which also included a banking agency.  After living in Mackay for a short while, she returned to Bowen to run a grazing operation for 16 years before buying Corals City 2 Country.

Wendy is one of the owners and is the lead manager at Corals City 2 Country, specialising in fitting shoes especially for people with feet problems. Wendy was born with turned feet and has endured problems with finding suitable shoes throughout her life, thus understanding those who struggle to find the right shoe when dealing with similar conditions.

In honour of International Women’s Day, Wendy addresses that women bring a different point of view to a business. Stemming from her mother’s dedication and ‘never say no attitude’ Wendy says her mother is her greatest role model and mentor, touching on the importance of having strong people in life to keep us going when life gets in the way.

Emphasising on the importance of family time, Wendy likes to cook, watch a good movie as well as spend quality time with her two children and a ‘very naughty’ Jack Russel who believes he is the most important family member.

Corals City 2 Country is a unique business that has something for everyone… from your hat to your hanky and even engraving. The store stocks well-known brands like Ariat, Wrangler and Thomas Cook to Orientique, Escape and Sass.

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Coral Sea Resort was transformed into a sea of purple and white on Sunday when around 120 people celebrated International Women’s Day with the Zonta Club of the Whitsundays.

The guests were greeted to a glass of sparkles on arrival and enjoyed a three-course meal that set the stage for a sensational afternoon.

At the event the young and talented Scarlet Foti was given recognition for her astonishing work.

At just 17 she has developed a self-guided book for neurodivergent children and has an active involvement in various community services, such as Occupational Therapy Whitsundays and she also teaches for the Music Evolution.

Scarlet was given a scholarship on the day and congratulated by all in attendance.

Dame Carol Kidu also attended the event and donated a handcrafted item from Papua New Guinea which was auctioned off during the afternoon.

Member for Whitsunday, Amanda Camm and Julie Hall, Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor were also in attendance.

The event was full of raffles and auctions, and it served as Zonta’s fundraiser for their many ongoing projects and scholarship.

The Zonta Club of the Whitsunday expresses its gratitude to all donations and sponsors that participated in making the weekend’s event so special and impactful.

Zonta is a group based in the Whitsundays with the mission to raise money for struggling women, whether that would be women in third world countries or local.

The Zonta Club of the Whitsundays hold monthly meetings every third Thursday and everyone is welcome to join.

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Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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Guests had a fantastic time at this years’ International Women’s Day High Tea hosted by The Zonta Club of Bowen on Sunday.

A crowd of 85 attended the event held at Wangaratta Bowls Club in Queens Beach.

Attendees reportedly had a whirl and said the food was amazing.

Numerous guest speakers attended the event, including Associate Professor Carmen Parter who spoke about her family life, work life and her strong belief of standing together united.

Suited to Success representative, Emma Galligan gave a presentation by dressing Zonta employee Nan, in three different outfits with varying accessories to create four different outfits for different scenarios.

Suited to Success provides free styling, clothing, and career support services for people in need throughout Queensland. 

Final guest speaker was Katrina Smith, she is studying Bachelor of Nursing through Central Qld University, while also working at Bowen Hospital and she won the 2024 Bursary Award on the day.

Other awards at the event were the Community Recognition Awards and this year more categories were added.

The Agent of Change award is given to a local lady or ladies who are recognised for their tireless work towards bettering the community.

This years’ winners were, Chris Storrie, Anne Steen, Jenn Honnery, Dee Jastremski, Shelley Tait and Kasie Lane.

Mover of Mountains award is given to the local lady or ladies who have achieved big things for the Bowen community with Christine Coventry and Julies Jurgens winning the award this year.

The Group Greatness is awarded to a local club or group that has proved themselves numerous times to be pillars of the community and this years’ winner was The Bowen Community Op-Shop Volunteer Ladies.

Susanne Gaffney; Sharyn Stoessel; Cheryl Throssell; Carmen Lynch; Heather Johnston; Christine Prosser.

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1: L to R: Chris Storrie; Anne Steen; Jenn Honnery; Dee Jastremski; Shelley Tait; & Kasie Lane with Zonta President Jacintha Nawia

2: Christine Coventry; Julies Jurgens with Zonta President Jacintha Nawia

3: L to R:  Susanne Gaffney; Sharyn Stoessel; Cheryl Throssell; Carmen Lynch; Heather Johnston; Christine Prosser, with Zonta President Jacintha Nawia

4: Associate Professor Carmen Parter  

5: Emma Galligan from Suited to Success

6: 2024 Bursary winner Katrina Smith

All images supplied

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With friendships made over the pool table, Anchor Bar tattoos seen around town and people recommending the ‘retreat from the main-street’ as you board a plane from Brisbane – it is easy to see how this iconic local venue has become both a meaningful and memorable place for many people over the years.

Opening its doors 10 years ago, Anchor Bar came to life when couple Josh Knutson and Leah McMillan saw an ad in the local newspaper and jumped at the opportunity to run their own place.  

The pair had met in Airlie Beach a few years earlier and had known each other from their homeland of New Zealand before this chance reconnection changed the trajectory of their lives.

Leah recalls that Josh had been working in construction and landscaping on the main-street revitalisation project when she called into town for two weeks to take a sailing course.

Having travelled the world for five years prior, when the couple met, Leah decided to stay and make a life here in Airlie Beach with Josh.

“You travel all around the world, but end up finding another Kiwi from your hometown!” she laughed.

When they first took over the venue it needed a little love as it had previously been a quiet bar that did not serve food and predominantly looked after resort clientele.

With a vision to create something different, but in-fitting with the casual coastal atmosphere of the town, Josh and Leah began to organically develop the offering.

Over the past decade Anchor Bar has evolved to become the popular place it is today.

“It’s our secret hideaway, the ‘retreat from the main street’ and it has its own unique identity, its own cult following,” shared Leah.

“We’ve seen people with Anchor Bar tattoos and had people come in who said they’d been told about us while boarding the plane from Brisbane.

“We are loved by locals but also travellers and holidaymakers who come through town.”

When asked the reason for their success, Leah said it is to do with consistency, especially when it comes to food.

“Putting consistently good food out has been our main goal,” she shared.

“We saw the potential to make this beautiful space into a family-friendly spot for everyone and I think over the years we have achieved that.”

With limited hospitality experience before they opened Anchor Bar, Josh and Leah say it was a whirlwind first few years when they managed the business before buying it in 2014 and then finally purchasing the freehold in 2017.

“It’s such a fun industry to be in and we love it!” Leah said.

“Usually, you pay to go out but we’re getting paid to be out and have fun!

“All this would not have been possible without our fantastic staff, our loyal locals and of course our amazing local suppliers – thank you all so much for making Anchor Bar what it is today.”

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It was three years ago that Rabia opened the doors to Palace Hair and Beauty in Proserpine, after trading in the same location for 15 years as AMAC Hair Design with a long-standing clientele.    

Prior to taking over the salon, Rabia had been running a variety of businesses for almost 20 years in several different countries, which provided a solid foundation in business fundamentals to bring to her new hometown of Prosperine, whilst learning and loving the “Prossy” way of doing things.  

As Rabia grew her customer base, she identified a gap in the market for a proper Barbershop, and after securing the shop next door, proceeded to open the Kingsmen Barbershop with a focus on traditional barbering techniques and modern trends.

The mission of the Palace Hair and Beauty & Kingsmen Barbershop is to provide exceptional hair and grooming services while fostering a sense of community and belonging for clients.

The team understand the importance of looking and feeling great and are dedicated to helping individuals achieve their desired style with personalised consultations and top-notch services.

Understanding the unique style and preferences of their clients is key, given a common challenge is discovering a preferred stylist has moved away or relocated to the mines. Rabia and her team address this challenge by ensuring the entire team are consistently trained in all customer preferences and styles, so if a team member relocates, the rest of the team can continue to take good care of that customer.  

As a business owner, Rabia suggests that it is imperative to look after your staff and customers, communicate effectively to promote good management, seek feedback from clients and staff, and share this feedback with the team to facilitate improvements.

Rabia says “Being a member of the Chamber has enabled me to receive support and advice to broaden my understanding of local market demands.The Chamber of Commerce truly shares their knowledge and leadership, as well as providing member education and engagement, which helps alleviate the day-to-day pressures of running of a small business.”

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Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

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Caption: The dedicated team at Kingsmen Barbershop. Photo supplied

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The Bowen tourism community are celebrating this week with news that one of their own was awarded Gold at the Grey Nomad Awards held over the weekend.

Queens Beach Tourist Village once again received the top gong in the Best Large Caravan Park Category.

This is the third consecutive year the park has received the award which means it has now been inducted into the Hall of Fame for these awards.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said it was fantastic news that the Queen’s Beach Tourist Village had won Gold in their category again in the Grey Nomads Awards.

“Peter and Jennie and the Team at Queen’s Beach run a fantastic park. They are also great ambassadors for Bowen and the greater Whitsundays region,” Ms Abernethy said.

In addition to this, two other local hot spots were finalists in the awards.

“We were also very pleased that the Big Mango was named a finalist in the Best Attraction category and that Bowen was also a national finalist in the category for the Best Grey Nomad Friendly Town,” she added.

“This was the first time we had nominated for these awards so to be named finalists in both categories was very pleasing.”

The Grey Nomad Awards shines a light on the best places for older travellers to stay and play around the country.

The Awards are judged by tourism leaders from across the country who offer valuable insights and detailed feedback to each entrant, ensuring nominees have practical tips to improve their tourism offering for the future benefit of their business, their community and visitors.

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Caption: Queens Beach Tourist Village once again received the top gong in the Best Large Caravan Park Category. Photo supplied

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Tourism representatives from across the region are heading to Darwin this weekend for the much-anticipated 2023 Australian Tourism Awards which is due to be held this evening.

Still on a high from winning the trifecta at the 2022 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards which were held in Sydney last year, there is a general atmosphere of excitement surrounding the event once again.

Rick Hamilton, CEO of Tourism Whitsundays, says he is thrilled to attend the event again this year.

“This event is the pinnacle of awards in our industry and The Whitsundays is well represented this year,” he shared.

“The businesses who are in the running tonight entered and won gold at the 38th Annual Queensland Tourism Awards in November 2023, along with the gold winners from the other states.

“Securing gold in 26 per cent of the state award categories, The Whitsundays claimed seven gold, two silver, five bronze, and one highly commended award, marking another significant achievement for the region.

“We’re all wishing the best of luck to Ocean Rafting, BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort, Pinnacles, Airlie Beach, Magnums Accommodation Airlie Beach and Whitsunday Coast Airport.”

Caption: Whitsunday representatives attending the 2022 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards in Sydney last year. Photo supplied

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