Wilmar Sugar and Renewables and representatives of three unions met last week at the company’s request to discuss current positions in relation to their enterprise bargaining dispute.

Wilmar suggested today’s meeting following discussions two weeks ago in Townsville facilitated by Fair Work Commissioner Bernie Riordan.

Subsequent to those discussions, Commissioner Riordan recommended some potential solutions to a range of issues in dispute.

A Wilmar spokesman said last week’s meeting established that each side saw merit in exploring at least some of the Commissioner’s suggestions and a number of options were raised.

“We reinforced again our commitment to finding a mutually acceptable solution by suggesting new options for an agreement based in large part on a suggested solution from Commissioner Riordan,” he said.

“We see these as a possible opportunity for headway.

“We have left it with unions to come back to us on the options put forward,” the spokesman said.

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Simon Hood
Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

Following a jam-packed July that was dominated by our international sugar trader roadshow, the Grower Marketing team has been busy compiling the first edition of our new grower newsletter – The Sugar Brief.

In this new communication offering, we collate the range of activities we engage in that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Wilmar Sugar and Renewables sponsors dozens of events within our sugar milling regions that are linked to cane growing, local schools, sporting clubs and community activities.

Through July and August, the Grower Marketing team sponsored the Ingham Tractor Pull Championship held at the Ingham Show and the Young Farmers section at the 2024 Proserpine Show cane exhibit.

As part of Wilmar’s corporate sponsorship of the North Queensland Cowboys, we are able to entertain growers at some of the local games. Unfortunately, the most recent of these corporate box events coincided with the Broncos bringing their A-game to the Townsville stadium.

Port tours and school education events are a regular activity for our team in the field, and we hope to get some mill tours underway once the season progresses.

We also intermittently hold shed meetings for interested parties, especially those who missed out on the trader roadshow.

On the Pricing and Pooling front, Wilmar’s results continue to outperform the competition. Our Production Risk Pool is tracking well ahead of QSL’s Harvest Pool as is our Managed Pool and US Quota Pool.

The all-important Allocation Account is currently forecast at approximately $42/t Actual which is effectively twice as much as the QSL shared Pool. Obviously it is very early in the 2024 season and forecast prices will move around with the market. However the established trend of the Pool and Allocation continuing to add significant value to growers who choose to market with Willmar looks to be repeating.

Remember you have until 31 October 2024 to finalise your 2025 season GEI marketing nomination. Even if you have already nominated, you are able to change your GEI marketer up until that date.

Feel free to contact one of our team members to talk about your marketing options.

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We were proud sponsors of the Tractor Pull Championship held at the Ingham Show

Proserpine Grower Marketing Consultant Shirley Norris with the Valmadre family who placed second in the Young Farmers section at the Proserpine Show

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Thousands of young people will get a taste of democracy when they head back to the ballot box this week for the Mackay Youth Council election, building on the success of last year’s inaugural election.
Voters will head to local high schools and community spaces to elect 12 representatives from 21 candidates to the second Mackay Youth Council.
Young people aged 11-17 (inclusive) are eligible to vote for the candidates running in the region they live or spend the most time in. Voting will be optional preferential, mirroring state and federal elections to provide a comprehensive voting experience for young voters.
This is the second election for the Mackay Youth Council, which was voted in in last year’s inaugural election. That election saw over 1400 young people vote across the region for their initial crop of Youth Councillors, as the first region in the Young Mayors Program, a pilot program being delivered by the Foundation for Young Australians (FYA) in partnership with Local Councils in Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria.
The pilot has seen over 7000 young people participate in democratic elections in its first year. The pilot program aims to get young people more involved in civic life and local decision-making.
Mackay’s inaugural Youth Council identified youth mental health as a priority and organised a series of free youth mental health first aid workshops for the community. They also explored creating more “third spaces” for young people in the community, including working with the Mackay Regional Council Library network to increase youth engagement of their services.
Mayor Greg Williamson said council had been proud to see what was achieved by the first group of Youth Councillors.
“Council is excited to see what this next term in office holds,” Mayor Williamson said.
“At the ‘Meet the Candidates’ event this month, we heard directly from candidates who had a range of tremendous ideas and policies that could ensure the Mackay region continues to support and retain young people,” he said.
“It’s fantastic that the young people of Mackay have a platform for actively engaging with and helping to solve issues that are affecting their communities.”
Candidates have had access to free media training, workshops on being an elected representative and campaigning workshops, marketing tutorials and campaign materials and more.
The program will back young people to learn about and participate in the systems that govern their lives, and influence decisions that impact their community.
FYA’s Executive Director of Young Mayors, Tahlia Azaria, said a youth council ensures local government decisions reflect the desires of young people.
“Local governments play a huge role in the everyday lives of people in our communities, and that includes young people. But young people are often locked out of power – consulted but never in charge,” she said.
“This program puts young people in the driver’s seat - ensuring that council policies and programs better reflect the concerns, needs and desires of local young people.”
The Young Mayors pilot program has been designed by FYA and is based on successful UK models.
For more information about the Young Mayors program, visit: https://www.fya.org.au/program/young-mayors/

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It’s time to dust off your bikes and scooters; construction on Woodlands Track in Andergrove is now complete.

The new 300-metre multipurpose active track has been designed for all ages and a variety of wheeled devices including bikes, scooters, skateboards and more.

Mayor Greg Williamson said Woodlands Track would be the ideal spot for exercise and family outings.

“The track’s thoughtful design ensures it is a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone, from young children to adults,” Mayor Williamson said. 

“Featuring a variety of different sized slopes and valleys, the track caters to parents wanting to teach their children how to ride a bike or adults and older children who want to try something more adventurous like scootering, skateboarding or rollerblading,” he said.

“Council is committed to improving the liveability of the region and we have been focussing on enhancing local recreational facilities that promote healthy living and active lifestyles in our region.
“Projects like the Finch Hatton Mountain Bike Trails, Seaforth Esplanade Redevelopment and Woodlands Track reflect this commitment.”

Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert said the Queensland Government was proud to invest in regional communities through the $1.1 billion Works for Queensland program.

“We’ve already seen the benefits the Works for Queensland program is delivering for local economies, tradies and families right across the Mackay region,” Ms Gilbert said.

"I look forward to seeing the lasting benefits this project will deliver for the local community," she said.
Woodlands Track is part of the second phase of stage one’s Woodlands District Park project, along with new public toilets (opening soon). Landscaping is also included as part phase two, and these works are due to be completed in September, weather permitting. 

The first phase of this project involved drainage improvements, construction of connecting paths, barbecue facilities and lighting, which were completed in March.

The next phase will involve the installation of an all-abilities playground, with the design stage already underway.

This project is proudly funded by the Queensland Government’s Works for Queensland Program in association with Mackay Regional Council.

Visit connectingmackay.com.au/woodlands to learn more about Woodlands District Park and subscribe to project updates.

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Gabby Hoffmann tests out Woodlands Track on her bike

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If the Mackay real estate market were by itself at a school dance or sitting solo at a busy bar, there would be a line-up of suitors asking for a dance or offering to buy drinks.
Mackay Market would be dressed nicely, nothing flashy or ostentatious, and would not be part of the boisterous “in-crowd” that likes being the centre of attention.
But the conga line of admirers would be dizzy with delight at the very sight of this attractive, although slightly distant beauty.
The admirers would be swept off their feet by something so alluring yet strangely accessible.
They would compare the situation in other bars they have been to … those expensive ones in Sydney and Melbourne that are full of pretentious, stuck-up types who wouldn’t give you the time of day.
“No, Mackay Market is different to the others. I don’t have to be a millionaire to get noticed. And Mackay Market seems available, open to offers,” they would observe.
For a southern real estate investor, the Mackay real estate market is all those things: attractive, geographically distant, alluring, accessible and available.
The key driver is the price of real estate and the rental returns.
There are other factors that are important and are definitely part of the equation for southern investors: low rental vacancies, relatively high average incomes, low unemployment, lots of work opportunities, a good standard of health, education and sporting facilities and the outdoor lifestyle that attracts and keeps people here.
Demand and supply is, as always, a key factor. Mackay has an under-supply of properties and an over-supply of buyers and renters.
But once all those boxes are ticked for investors, the one biggie is rental yield; the return on investment. The simple question for investors is: How much does it cost and how much rent do I get?
I have a client who has a property in a large city down south. The house is worth $1.1-$1.2 million. She gets $650 a week rent … and that’s after a recent increase.
In Mackay, you would expect to get that same amount of rent, $650 a week, for a property worth about $500,000. So, the same rent for less than half the purchase price.
If an investor buys a Mackay property for $500,000 and rents it out for $650 a week, the gross yield is 6.76 per cent. The net yield, with costs for rates and insurance included in the calculation, is about 5.2 per cent depending on those costs.
A recent assessment of rental yields across the country came in with a gross average yield of 3.5 per cent to 4.5 per cent and a net yield of 1.5 per cent to 3.5 per cent. Sydney’s gross rental yield is about 2.6 per cent and Melbourne’s is about 2.95 per cent.
I know none of this will bring comfort to local buyers who are finding it increasingly difficult to get into the market but, rather than trying to rub it in, I am seeking to explain what is happening and help local buyers plan their buying strategy.
But locals should remember we are still priced well below the national median price. Instead of having to come up with well over $800,000 around the nation, in Mackay the median is around $500,000.
And first home buyers should bear in mind that a unit is a lot cheaper than that. You can still buy a decent two-bedroom unit for the high-$200,000s to mid-$300,000s depending on the location and features. That’s an affordable way of breaking into the Mackay market that is definitely not available in other big-city markets.
Uh oh, someone’s over in the corner flirting with Mackay Market again.

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Last week, the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC) hosted the annual Resource Industry Network (RIN) Awards Gala Dinner, where the region’s top organisations and individuals were honoured for their contributions across various categories. The event highlighted achievements in safety, innovation, community engagement, and more, reflecting the sector’s commitment to excellence.

The standout winners included:

Safety Foremost Award (Sponsored by Diacon Australia): BMA took home the award for their exemplary safety practices, setting a high standard in the industry.

Champion Culture Award (Sponsored by Field Mining Services Group): Ausgroup Industrial Services QLD Pty Ltd was recognised for its focus on local workforce development, achieving a notable 3.1% attrition rate through its commitment to upskilling and career growth.

Connecting in the Community Award (Sponsored by Local Buying Foundation): Muscle Garden Health & Fitness Centre was celebrated for its exceptional community engagement and collaboration with external stakeholders, demonstrating a strong commitment to local connections.

Expansion into New Markets Award (Sponsored by Queensland Hydro): Twin Hills Engineering and Drilling received acclaim for their strategic move into the renewable sector, driven by their principle of working with nature and their efforts towards achieving net zero.

Manufacturing Excellence Award (Sponsored by Queensland Manufacturing Hubs Program): KCL Industries from Gargett was honoured for their innovative design and manufacturing, showcasing outstanding engineering and industry impact.

Standing out from the Crowd Award (Sponsored by Onsite Training Australia): Rod Erwin of Mastermyne was recognised for his exceptional leadership and mentorship, valued for his dedication to fostering relationships and supporting both his team and the wider community.

Inclusion and Diversity Award (Sponsored by BHP Mitsubishi Alliance): KAEFER Integrated Services was awarded for its commitment to building a diverse and inclusive workplace, and promoting equal opportunities within the industry.

The 2024 RIN Awards Gala was more than a celebration of individual success; it was a testament to the collaborative spirit and relentless drive of Mackay’s industry leaders.

As each winner took the stage, it became clear that their achievements were not just milestones but beacons guiding the region’s future. With their groundbreaking work and unyielding dedication, these industry champions are not merely navigating the challenges ahead—they are redefining them, forging a path that others can follow and inspire.

Award winners, finalists and industry members gather at the 2024 RIN Awards Gala, showcasing their exceptional contributions and commitment to the resources industry. Photo credit: Resource Industry Network

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Eight-year-old Cindy is making moves, not just on the runway as a model, but as a compassionate young star now raising funds for Share The Dignity Drive – a movement dedicated to ensuring that women, girls, and those at risk of domestic violence, homelessness or poverty, have access to essential period products.

Whilst Cindy eagerly awaits the grand final of the Fashion vs Beauty competition on the Gold Coast in September, she gladly dedicates her time to giving back to her community alongside her mother, Monique.

Cindy has creatively decorated a donation box and is accepting donations of brand new sanitary and period products including pads, tampons, maternity pads, incontinence pads, reusable pads, period-proof underwear and menstrual cups.

If you would like to donate menstrual products to support Cindy’s fundraising efforts, please email Monique at Brownm01@outlook.com.au for drop off details, or donate online via the QR code or www.sharethedignity.org.au/dignity-drives

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Cindy’s donation box is ready to receive sanitary products for the Share The Dignity Drive. To donate menstrual items, please email Monique at Brownm01@outlook.com.au. Photo supplied

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A tragic car accident on Sunday, 11 August, which initially resulted in the deaths of two Filipino women and an unborn child, has claimed another life.

The incident, involving two vehicles, has now also claimed the life of a man from Mermaid Beach. He was transported to Townsville University Hospital following the crash but succumbed to his injuries on Friday afternoon.

According to a Queensland Police Service (QPS) report, the collision occurred at approximately 1:06pm in Mount Marlow. A Nissan Navara, travelling towards Cannonvale, collided with a Toyota Landcruiser moving in the opposite direction, the report stated.

This latest fatality brings the total number of traffic-related deaths in the Mackay Whitsunday district for 2024 to 15. Police continue to urge drivers to exercise caution on the roads.

In response to the tragedy, the Filipino-Australian community has rallied together, creating a GoFundMe page to support the affected Filipino family. The page had raised more than $20,000 in its first three days, demonstrating the strong sense of community and support within the Whitsundays.

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Hi Everyone,
Rachael is taking a well-deserved break this week to celebrate her wedding, which took place over the weekend. In her absence, the Editor’s Note reins have been handed over to me, so I will give you a quick introduction to myself.
The team and I were kindly invited to Rach’s wedding, and it was a truly beautiful event. Rach looked stunning, the weather couldn't have been better and we all had a fantastic time celebrating with her (even if there were a few sore heads in the office on Monday!).
Although I've been with the team for less than three months, I’ve felt genuinely welcomed. Celebrating Rach's wedding together really underscored the supportive and friendly atmosphere in the Whitsunday Life team.
After relocating from the UK, where I was born, to Australia in January, I spent five months living and working in Sydney before making my way to The Whitsundays. I’m thoroughly enjoying exploring this stunning part of the country and writing about one of Australia’s most beautiful destinations.
Having worked for Sky News in the UK, I was keen to explore a different style of journalism. It's been interesting to see how different print journalism is to TV! Working for a local paper and getting to know members of the community has been something I’ve particularly enjoyed about the job.
Those who know me, know that I’m passionate about environmentalism and ocean conservation. This week, I was thrilled to write about Chez the turtle's release. It was uplifting to witness the local community rally together in support. It has been lovely to see how deeply the community values environment, especially considering our proximity to the Great Barrier Reef.
Another exciting addition to our paper is the new ‘Pet of the Week’ column! If you have time, make sure to give it a read, there are some really wonderful animals that need a loving home.
Enjoy reading!
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Ruth
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In the words of Rafiki, (I just watched Lion King with my housemates):
“Oh yes, the past can hurt. But from the way I see it, you can either run from it or learn from it.”

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There is no doubt that the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre does remarkable work for the community. One standout initiative is their Community Food Pantry.
The fantastic program which aims to help reduce food waste and support community members has distributed a tremendous 519 kgs of fruit and 704 kgs of veggies in the six months since January.
The Whitsunday Community Food Pantry provides grocery packs for $15, featuring a variety of items donated by the community as well as Coles and Woolworths supermarkets. The pantry also offers a selection of free items available to everyone.
One memorable donation to the pantry this week came from a young girl named Bliss. After her Pyjama Day at kindergarten, she visited the centre to donate some food items and $2 of her own pocket money. This is not the first time Bliss has donated, having donated $1 of her pocket money last year.
Bliss donated a generous array of soups, pasta and noodles towards the Community Food Pantry.
Tara Tissington, the Receptionist at the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, emphasised that while all donations are highly valued, there is a particular need for children's lunchbox items like muesli bars.
“School lunch boxes never go astray,” Tara explained.
“The program is available to everyone in the community, it doesn't matter who they are, they can come in and we will see what we can do.”
“We always try and help out where we can.”
You too can donate unopened, in-date food items to the pantry. Drop-off points are available at Coles Cannonvale and Woolworths Cannonvale.
Donate and feel great!

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Food panty grocery pack, Photo sourced

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Last Sunday, local communities gathered together to mark Vietnam Veterans Day, honouring the significant contributions of Australian veterans who served in the Vietnam War. August 18th is the anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan, one of the most pivotal engagements for Australian forces during the conflict.
Between 1962 and 1973, over 60,000 Australians served in Vietnam, with some returning for humanitarian missions in 1975. Tragically, 523 lost their lives, and around 3,000 were evacuated due to wounds, injuries, or illnesses. Many who came back faced a lack of respect and recognition amidst strong anti-war sentiment.
Vietnam Veterans Day offers an opportunity for individuals to acknowledge the service and sacrifice of veterans, many of whom have continued to contribute as dedicated community leaders and volunteers even after their military service.

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This week Queensland (QLD) Cricket launched their Play Cricket Week.

Queensland and Brisbane Heat batsman, Matt Renshaw visited the Whitsundays this week to help drive Play Cricket Week. His presence had a significant impact on local engagement. 

“What we're trying to do is try and make as many people play cricket as possible,” said Matt Renshaw.

“I think Australian cricket is strong and the country cricket is strong too. I think putting more funding into the country areas is really important. So, to see a new cricket club here in Airlie is pretty great for the area.”

Matt believes young people should start playing cricket not only because it is enjoyable but because of life experience and skills too.

“There are some really good things you can get out of it, both with cricket and as people. The resiliency you go through, the enjoyment, and then the skills that you can develop can take you all around the world,” said Matt.

“We want to try and build the game as much as we can. We want guys and girls coming in and playing for Australia. We want Australian cricket to be strong.

“Being able to play with your mates is something that I've always enjoyed throughout my whole career. That's why I keep playing cricket.

“You get to stand out in the sun with your mates, which is pretty special.”

Play Cricket Week comes at a great time for Airlie Beach Cricket Club (ABCC) who have established the first cricket club in Airlie Beach for over 20 years.

“We are thrilled to align our launch with Play Cricket Week,” said ABCC Media Spokesperson Stephen Logan.

“Having an Australian cricket player and Brisbane Heat cricket player is huge advantage for the cricket club, but also great for the kids to actually see where they can actually get to.”

The launch of Play Cricket Week was at Cannonvale State School, and Principal Nicholas Shirley was thrilled that QLD cricket chose their school to host the fun games and activities to help boost cricket within young people.

Cannonvale State School will also be working in conjunction with ABCC and Principal Nicholas Shirley is looking forward to it.

“We haven't had a cricket organisation that we are able to utilise for our school, so to have it right here in our backyard is fantastic,” said Nicholas.

“Airlie Beach Cricket Club will be giving us some wonderful facilities and it's a dream come true for our school to not only have that partnership, but to actually get some first-class facilities for our school, including a new pitch that we're super excited about.”

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Cricket Manager of Mackay and Whitsundays Bo Saunders, Matt Renshaw, and Airlie Beach Cricket Club President Brett Simpson
Play Cricket Week at Cannonvale State School
Playing games in Play Cricket Week
More activities

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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This year, the Mayor's Charity Ball introduces a brand-new ticket option: the After Dark Experience! For just $150, you can join the celebration from 8pm, enjoying a sparkling drink on arrival, gourmet canapés, an open bar, live music, and even a surprise performance. With free transport and a fireworks finale, it’s the perfect way to experience all the excitement without the formal dinner. This year's event supports RACQ CQ Rescue and the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network. To join the fun, head to https://bit.ly/MayorsCharityBall for more info or to purchase tickets!

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Council regularly receives requests for improved lighting throughout the region and Council is always keen to improve public safety where possible.
 
Obviously, we cover a massive area, so it is up to Council and Councillors to identify areas with the most urgent need and prioritise these locations.
 
This year Council has been trialling the installation of 30 temporary solar-powered lights in Hansen, Lions, Case, and Barker Parks in Bowen to improve lighting in the busy Grays Bay area.
 
The benefits of this lighting project include increased visibility along pathways, making it safer for pedestrians to navigate these areas, especially during early mornings and at night.
 
The improved lighting also makes these parks more suitable for hosting community events in the evenings, encouraging more frequent use of these public spaces by residents and visitors.
 
Community Consultation was open to residents and visitors via an online survey on our Your Say community engagement platform for six weeks, as we sought feedback from the community about the temporary lights, their placement and if they have improved use and safety for park users.
 
We recognise the importance of engaging with our community in a meaningful and genuine way about decisions which affect you.
 
The survey had great feedback with 87 submissions received. The majority were in favour of the improved lighting, so Council has now engaged a lighting consultant to incorporate feedback, including refining the placements of lighting to minimise nuisance, ensure solar access and meet needs of users.
 
I thank the community for having their say during the trial as their feedback has assisted Council to determine the most suitable and cost-effective options for a permanent light design and placement.
 
The good news is that $900,000 has been identified in our three-year capital budget for delivery of the Grays Bay lighting project once the design phase has been completed. The use of solar power aligns with sustainable energy practices, reducing the carbon footprint associated with lighting the parks.
 
This initiative demonstrates a commitment by Council to not only improve public safety, but also embrace sustainable energy practices, reducing the carbon footprint associated with lighting the parks.

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Tourism Whitsundays and Cruise Whitsundays are heading to Brisbane in early September to meet with 49 buyers from India and South East Asia at Experience Queensland - India and South East Asia. This event, run by Tourism and Events Queensland, is focusing on this emerging market and building relationships with travel buyers and wholesalers from these locations.  
  
"Going back to pre-Covid times, India was quickly gaining momentum as a source market for The Whitsundays and this business-to-business networking and meeting day is a step to restarting that market," said Cait. 
  
The international travellers have been slower to return than expected and there's an element of retraining involved in terms of how to get to The Whitsundays from the other side of the world, however we're seeing our international visitor numbers grow each and every quarter which is fantastic,  
  
Earlier this month, we attended Queensland is Calling - North America where Ben Summers met with travel agents across America to educate them on The Whitsundays.  
  
These trade shows, whether they are in America, UK, China or Australia all focus on the same key points:  
   1. Where The Whitsundays are 
   2. How do travel agents get their clients here 
   3. Why The Whitsundays is different to other reef or beach destinations 

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Contributed by Cait Fleming, Industry Development & Trade Manager, Tourism Whitsundays  

Tourism Whitsunday’s at Down Under Summit

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