I struggle to set goals. Really struggle – it bores me . . .

I struggle to concentrate in our yearly strategy session; I drive the team nuts. Tasks, goals, KPI’s - they just don’t excite me. But people do!

Just recently I stumbled across something which is a surefire way to excite people like me into being able to create action plans and actionable items (my preferred description for a goal). It all changed when I started researching the science behind your ‘future self’ and the concept of setting your ‘future self’ up for success.

We tend to think who we are now is the “real” and “finished” version. However, your personality, skills, likes, dislikes, beliefs, priorities, and values change over time. As Daniel Gilbert once stated:

“Human beings are works in progress that mistakenly think they’re finished.”

Are you really the same person as 10 years ago?

Take a moment to imagine yourself in five years – where are you, what are you doing, how have you grown, what have you achieved, what do you look like, how do you feel?

Create the best scenario for yourself.

Now consider – how is this going to happen if you are not making choices and decisions today that align with this outcome? By embracing our future self, we are setting that person up for success by making more informed and calculated decisions today. This is a people-oriented (vs task-oriented) approach to setting goals.

For example – if personally I see my future self hiking Patagonia for 10 days, then I need to make better decisions today to keep myself strong, fit, and agile. If professionally I see my future self really enjoying the thrill of keynote speaking at large events, what am I doing right now to set the actional items (sub-goals) required to achieve this?

Both examples demonstrate how we can create actionable items to achieve our goals through visualising what our future self wants. This people-oriented approach to goal setting, in effect, creates a really simple motivator to spur us into action.

Your future self is a relationship that needs to be nurtured and strengthened. Take the time today to get to know that person five years in the future. Slip into your future self shoes to feel what it’s like in order to create the changes you need today.

By Judy Porter

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Two long serving Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) volunteers of Bowen have been recognised for their outstanding and lasting service and legacy.

For Arthur and Robyn Burrell, signing up for the Bowen Rural Fire Brigade was a quick decision, following a short community meeting close to two decades ago.

“Arthur has lived here all his life, and we figured it was high time to get involved and help out where we could,” Robyn said.

“To this day we might be the only couple who have been silly enough to do this together!”

Completing a vast range of tasks throughout their time with the Bowen Rural Fire Brigade, the Burrell’s have volunteered through fires, floods, traffic accidents, and even volunteered with the PCYC’s Braking the Cycle program, assisting youth gain their drivers licence.

Having retired from the post of actively assisting in emergencies, Robyn and Arthur have signed up as Treasurer and Secretary of the Bowen Rural Fire Brigade, while assisting home base during emergencies, which includes keeping volunteers and staff well-fed and hydrated.

Robyn remembers when Arthur first picked up the tongs and got behind the barbeque to feed more than 40 QFES volunteers and staff who were fighting a fire that lasted five days.

“We were stationed at a homestead preparing food over an old camp barbeque around the clock for crews who were rotating through the blaze,” Robyn said.

“It was in the season when everything was tinder dry, and the fire was started with a machine blade skimming a small stone. In those conditions, it is easy to imagine how such a small thing could start a community emergency.”

Robyn and Arthur are being formally recognised for their commitment, with the QFES Australia Day Achievement Award, with a special ceremony that occurred on Thursday.

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Robyn and Arthur Burrell, with their lasting legacy to the Bowen community. Photo supplied

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For over 150 years, the Bowen Jetty has been a beacon on the community’s foreshore, a testament to the town’s marine and exports infrastructure.

Constructed in 1867, the Jetty stands at over 750 metres long, and has undergone two rounds of refurbishments, in 1880 and 1910, followed by repairs, funded by North Queensland Bulk Ports, in 2022.

Currently leased and used by North Queensland Bulk Ports (NQBP), the Jetty acts as a resupply base for their tugs, that service the Abbot Point export wharf. However, with NQBP looking to relocate this operation to their Abbot Point terminal, the lease on the Jetty will come to a halt.

One stipulation with the NQBP lease is the demolition of the Jetty once its usage terminates, a stipulation which is causing great concern within the community.

Since 2016, the Bowen Chamber of Commerce have advocated for funding to restore the Jetty instead.

In the 2023 State Government budget, $50 million was allocated to future proof the asset, and the Chamber is now determined to ensure every cent is spent wisely, and with community consultation on the matter.

“NQBP has committed to work with the Bowen community by engaging in a community consultation process this year to lay out future options for rebuilding or repurposing the Jetty,” explained Tony Bale, Deputy Chairman of the Bowen Chamber.

“Before this process starts, it is important that we all understand whether the community is in favour of completely demolishing the Jetty and replacing it with something else, or preserving the existing structure and finding new ways that the community can make good use of the Jetty.”

The Bowen Chamber of Commerce and the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre has partnered together to promote a community survey, to gather the true thoughts and expectations of Bowen residents.

“The survey is intended to gather community thoughts about the future of the Jetty, as a means of guiding NQBP’s consultation process,” Mr Bale explained.

Jenn Honnery, Chair of Bowen Tourism and Business endorses the community survey and encourages Bowen residents to submit their thoughts.

“Visitors to Bowen love the town’s mix of secluded beaches, country hospitality and rich history. At the centre of our town is the Bowen Jetty, offering both a glimpse into the past and a wonderful walk to explore local marine life and bay views.”

“I congratulate the team behind Save the Bowen Jetty on their work to ensure the Bowen Jetty remains an integral part of our town into the future,” Ms Honnery explained.

“The Survey is the perfect opportunity for locals to voice their opinions on how that future takes shape and provide meaningful feedback for stakeholders to safeguard our town’s history.”

Scan the QR Code to submit your thoughts on how best to move forward with the Bowen Jetty and get your chance to win a $100 voucher for the Grand View Hotel.

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The Bowen Jetty in 1921

The Bowen Jetty as it now stands. Photos supplied

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Over 67 families have felt the helping hand of the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre, in partnership with Abbott Point Operations, Salvos and the Department of Communities.

As part of the Centre’s Back to School initiative, these 67 families received essential back to school supplies, ready for the start of the school year earlier this week.  

Stephanie Cora, the Executive Officer of the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre extended her thanks to the businesses and schools that donated generously to the cause.

“Their support during this busy time of the year demonstrates the strength of community bonds and the collective commitment to ensuring every child has the opportunity for a successful start to the school year,” she explained.

‘The collaborative effort not only ensured the success of the event but also added a touch of fun to the day. Families not only left with essential supplies but also with smiles on their faces, thanks to the joint venture's commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive community atmosphere.

Ms Cora further remarked, "We have identified a considerable number of families still in need of school uniforms. If anyone has preloved school uniforms to spare, the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre is more than happy to accept them. Your generosity can make a difference in the lives of these families."

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Staff of Abbott Point Operations and the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre were excited to equip Bowen youth with the necessary school supplies. Photo supplied

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The PCYC Bowen is hitting the streets with style, unveiling their new Kia Stonic, equipped and ready for Braking the Cycle participants to gather their hours for their licence.

Due to be upgraded very four to five years, the 2023 Kia Stonic has the club, volunteers, and program participants excited.

“How often do you get to drive a brand new car?” PCYC Bowen Club Manager Christopher Masina explained.

“Having this new car just better equips our Braking the Cycle participants with the best opportunity to get their licence.”

Braking the Cycle is a PCYC program aimed at youth between the ages of 17 and 25, supporting to achieve their Learners Driver Licence required hours in a supportive and encouraging environment.

Paired with a Mentor Driver, these youth will have regular driving sessions with this Mentor in the Kia, to gain confidence and skills behind the wheel.

PCYC Bowen is also welcoming new Mentor Drivers into the program, to assist Bowen’s youth to gain their provisional licence.

“There’s no special requirements,” Mr Masina explained.

“Our Mentor Drivers have got to have their full open Licence, complete a small amount of paperwork, and just have a spare 90 minutes to help youth get on the road.”

To contact to the Club about becoming either a Mentor Driving or to get your hours up, ring 07 4786 1383 or email bowen@pcyc.org.au

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PCYC Bowen’s Club Manager Christopher Masina and a Braking the Cycle Volunteer checking out the brand new Kia Stonic learner driver car for the Braking the Cycle program. Photo supplied

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The beautiful township of Bowen has been declared national finalist for the Grey Nomads Awards, in two massive categories.

Championing experience for visitors over the age of 50, the township of Bowen has been shortlisted for the 2023 Best Grey Nomad Friendly Town category, while The Big Mango and the Bowen Visitor Information Centre has been named finalist in the Best Attraction category.

Chair of Bowen Tourism and Business, Jenn Honnery said making it to the shortlist for the Grey Nomads awards shines a light on the efforts of the staff and volunteers, local tourism businesses and the whole community.

“Bowen is a place brimming with country hospitality set against a stunning backdrop of tropical beaches and islands,” she said.

“This makes it a friendly, safe and inclusive place for over 50s to visit and one which they return to year on year.”

She congratulated the Bowen community and the staff and volunteers at the Big Mango Information Centre for this achievement.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said this was the first time the organisation had been nominated in these awards.

“We entered in two categories and were named as national finalists in both,” she said.

Leanne also congratulated Queen’s Beach Tourist Village who has also been named as national finalists after winning the Large Caravan Park category two years in a row.

Grey Nomads Awards Director, Kim Morgan, said the awards shone a light on coastal, inland regional and remote Australia by rewarding organisations and destinations which catered to mature age visitors in an exemplary way.

National and state winners will be announced in March, as part of the Art of Attraction Tourism Summit on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast.

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NATIONAL FINALISTS: Bowen Tourism and Business volunteer Kev Clark with visitors from Brisbane – Angie, Jeff ad Dean Kelk and Anastasia Bowell at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre this week with the Grey Nomad awards finalist certificate. Photo supplied

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As the school year kicks off, packing a wholesome lunchbox is a fantastic way to ensure that both kids and adults stay fuelled and focused throughout the day. Ditch the monotony of pre-packaged snacks and explore these mouth watering yet healthy lunchbox recipes that will satisfy taste buds while providing essential nutrients.

1. Quinoa Salad Jars: Prepare a batch of quinoa and layer it in portable jars with colourful veggies like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and capsicum. Add a protein boost with grilled chicken or chickpeas. Drizzle with a zesty vinaigrette for a refreshing and nutritious lunch option.

2. Veggie Wraps: Create wraps using whole-grain tortillas or lettuce leaves filled with a rainbow of vegetables. Add a spread of hummus or a light dressing for flavour. Incorporate lean proteins like turkey or tofu to make these wraps a filling and well-rounded meal.

3. Bento Box Delights: Divide a lunchbox into sections and fill each with a variety of nutrient-packed goodies. Include wholegrain crackers, cheese cubes, sliced fruits, and a handful of nuts. This customisable option allows for a diverse and balanced meal.

4. Pasta Salad Power: Prepare a pasta salad with wholegrain or chickpea pasta, mixed with colourful veggies, such as cherry tomatoes, broccoli, and olives. Toss it in a light olive oil and herb dressing for a tasty and satisfying lunch.

5. Teriyaki Chicken Skewers: Marinate chicken chunks in a homemade teriyaki sauce (soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger) before threading them onto skewers with pineapple chunks and capsicum. Grill or bake for a savory and protein-packed lunchbox addition that transports taste buds to a delightful Asian-inspired realm.

6. Homemade Beef and Veg Sausage Rolls: Having that loving warmth of homemade yummy-ness, these beef and veg sausage rolls are full of goodness. Using zucchini, carrots, celery, beef mince, and garlic, these are tasty lunch items are sure to leave children full and ready for an afternoon of learning.

7. Rice Paper Rolls: Create light and refreshing rice paper rolls filled with colourful veggies, prawns, or tofu. Serve with a tasty dipping sauce, and these rolls become a delightful and healthy addition to any lunchbox.

8. Bean Salad: With three types of tasty beans, Cannellini, Kidney, and Chickpeas, this a refreshing alternative for lunches, that keeps children feeling satisfied and full, with flavours of onion, parsley, and the crunch of celery.

9. Vegetable Quesadillas: Fill whole-grain tortillas with a mix of sautéed vegetables, black beans, and a sprinkle of cheese. These quesadillas are not only flavourful but also a great source of fibre and essential vitamins.

10. Chicken Noodle Salad: Refreshing for a hot summer’s day, this chicken noodle salad is full of protein and necessary nutrients to keep children fuelled throughout the day.

Incorporating these recipes into your lunchbox routine not only adds variety but also ensures you're getting a well-rounded mix of nutrients. Remember to stay hydrated throughout the day and consider involving the whole family in the lunch-packing process for a fun and collaborative experience.

Here's to a school year filled with tasty and nutritious lunches!

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Celebrating the ninth annual Whitsunday Sports Expo, organisers are opening the doors to more than just sports, inviting all other local groups to participate in this vibrant community event.

Held at the Whitsunday Sportspark, the Expo has established a reputation for bringing a wide variety of community groups together, offering each club a platform to connect with potential members.

From swimming to basketball, the annual Whitsunday Triathlon Festival, ball sports such as netball, water sports such as sailing and combat sports such as Karate – almost any local active club is represented at the Expo.

To complement this already extensive range, it is hoped this year will include representation from an even more diverse range of groups.

From Bridge Clubs to promote an all-ages approach or other groups that focus on all-ability activities – everyone is welcome to join in and promote positive connection in our community.

“It’s all about activities in our community,” said Justin Butler, event coordinator.

“It’s about getting off the screens and really connecting with each other, promoting social interaction and keeping busy.”

There are almost 40 different groups signed-up to participate at the Expo already and Justin says he is happy to take more registrations over the coming week.

“Everyone is welcome, and we are happy to accommodate!” he said.

During the event attendees can talk to stall holders and discover more about the club.

This provides a great opportunity to discover the time of training sessions or club nights, also any time commitments required so you can work out how your new hobby will fit into your schedule.

By chatting to the club representatives, you can also find out whether the sport or group is suited to you.

The Expo is an interactive event where everyone can explore and try their hand at certain sports – touch a real sailing dinghy, hit a tennis ball, or sit on a stationary motorbike – your new passion could be ignited with this one experience!

With the café open all day there will be tea, coffee, and drinks for sale, along with pies and sausages.

The Shaved Cone van will also be present, providing ice-cold treats for the kids and kids at heart on what is promising to be another hot summer’s day.

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WHAT: Whitsunday Sports Expo

WHERE: Whitsunday Sports Park

WHEN: Saturday, February 3 from 9am – 1pm

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Sunday Social: W.Coles, and Helen Jacobsen, Steve Roome defeated Harry, Ross Scanlon, and Mitch Wright. Ron Muir, Rob, and Jane Gilbert defeated Herb Dalton, Andy Peebles, and Tiarna Rogers. Keith Kirk, Wayne Crowhurst, and Kevin Jewel defeated Jake Delic, Ray Muir, and Gavin Charles.

Wednesday Social: Jake Delic, Ron Gould, and Steve Roome defeated Sue Fox, Lou Fordham, and Doc Fordham. Peter Bruce, and Jason Wright defeated Ray Muir, and Mitch Wright. Jocelyn, Tracey Roach, and Mark Drummond defeated MaryEllen Pratten, Allen Williams, and Gavin Charles. Winning team for the afternoon were Harry, Jane Gilbert, and Lloyd White defeated Tony, Robyn Stitt, and Gus Munro.

Contributed with thanks to Joan Edwards.

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The Winning team of Harry, Jane Gilbert, and Lloyd White. Photo supplied

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Now is the time for Mackay residents to get ready, and the message is to be prepared, but not panic.

At a press conference on Monday morning, Mayor Greg Williamson announced that the region transitioned from an alert position to a 'lean forward' stance. This signifies that the Disaster Management Group (DMG) is actively engaged in providing all the necessary resources and support for our region to prepare for the possibility of a significant flooding event.

With the high possibility that Cyclone Kirrily will cross the coast near to us, the council is calling on all residents to stock up their emergency kits, familiarise themselves with council’s Emergency Action Guide and get their emergency evacuation plans in place.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the council’s Emergency Dashboard was the key point of information for all residents during a cyclone situation.

“Residents should go to the dashboard at disaster.mackay.qld.gov.au and opt in to receive text messages and email notifications of emergency alerts and weather warnings in our region,” Mayor Williamson said.

“The dashboard is updated in real time with the latest information regarding disaster preparation, management and recovery,” he said.

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Mayor Greg Williamson highlights crucial information in the Emergency Action Guide, a valuable resource readily available from Council, local libraries and the Visitor Information Centres. The information is also available on the Council's website. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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Sandbags And Supplies

Mackay's Call To Action For Disaster Readiness

Mayor Williamson said history has shown that our best defence when it comes to disaster is preparation.

“We are asking residents to make a plan and discuss it with their family, so they have the ‘five knows’ covered,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Residents should know when to go, where to go, how to move and what to take. We’re also asking them to get to know their neighbours who can be lifesavers in an emergency,” he said.

Mayor Williamson said as part of household preparation, it was essential that everyone has at least three full days of supplies.

“We recommend that an emergency kit is kept in a safe dry place at all times, and should include water, non-refrigerated food items, medicines and toiletries, batteries and food for pets as well,” Mayor Williamson said.

“You should also fuel up your vehicles and ensure you have fuel if you have a generator,” he said.

One aspect of this weather system that is concerning is the potential rainfall.

“All of the prediction models have significant rainfall attached to them. The part which is concerning is that once the cyclone impacts the cost, it is likely to turn to a southerly direction and drop a lot of rain in our western ranges,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Somewhere in the vicinity of 800ml to a metre is anticipated which is reminiscent of Cyclone Debbie which resulted in flooding we had never seen.

“It’s all a hypothesis at the moment so the greatest message we can deliver is to be prepared and not panicked.”

Mayor Williamson said that the storm surge and timing of the high tide on the weekend will be factors in the extent of the flooding.

“We have automatic monitoring systems in the Pioneer River, Sandy Creek and other tributaries so we will be very well informed immediately,” he added.

“Our Emergency Management Team is already working hard.”

Mackay Regional Council has emergency sand stockpiles at 13 locations across the region, at:

   • Armstrong Beach Rural Fire Brigade.

   • Calen – Church Street.

   • Campwin Beach SES Facility.

   • Finch Hatton SES Facility.

   • Grasstree Beach – Zelma Street.

   • Koumala SES Facility.

   • Midge Point – SES Facility.

   • Mirani – Victoria Street.

   • North Mackay – Norris Road reserve.

   • Sarina Darts Hall.

   • Seaforth tennis courts.

   • South Mackay – BB Print Stadium overflow car park.

   • West Mackay – Hume Street.

   • West Mackay – Shakespeare Street.

Residents must bring their own sandbags and a shovel to self-fill bags.

Residents are encouraged to keep an eye out on council’s Facebook page for tips on how to get prepared for disaster season as well as advice on the cyclone’s approach.

You can also council’s website at www.mackay.qld.gov.au/residents/emergency_management  

Please note, information was accurate at time of printing on Tuesday 23rd January. Please visit council’s Facebook page to stay up to date with current warnings.

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Mayor Greg Williamson briefed local media on the likely path of Tropical Cyclone Kirrily and highlighted the valuable information within the Emergency Action Guide on Monday morning when the Disaster Management Group took a ‘lean forward’ action stance. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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As I reflect on Mother Nature's frightening force, my mind drifts back to where I grew up in Renwick, a quaint town perched atop New Zealand's South Island, where the Wairau Fault Line offered a regular reminder of seismic uncertainties. During school days, earthquake drills were almost as routine as morning roll calls, with the ringing bell signalling a well-practiced dive beneath sturdy desks.

My journey to Australia held the promise of seismic serenity, yet North Queensland brought a different kind of meteorological show - an annual dance with cyclones. Unlike the abrupt tremors of earthquakes, cyclones offer polite warnings, however it had me pondering which was worse. An earthquake is over in moments, whereas an approaching cyclone can tie your stomach up in knots for days, trying to anticipate its next move.

In the aftermath of the devastating Christchurch earthquakes, I embarked on a mission to rescue my younger brother who was stranded in the CBD. Dodging crumbling buildings in relentless aftershocks, the urgency of the situation was made more difficult with no cell phone coverage and no way to know exactly where he was. The search led me through the debris-laden streets until, to my relief, I discovered him wandering down a road, clutching his two pet turtles.

Cyclones, unlike social guests, don't bother with RSVPs, and Queenslanders have mastered the stormy tango. It's a dance that demands agility, foresight, and community unity. The regular rituals unfold, from securing loose items to stocking up on essentials, a symphony of collective preparedness.

As I write this, we brace ourselves in readiness, not quite knowing what Kirrily has in store for our region. My hope is that by the time you read this, the cyclone has changed course or lessened in severity. If not, please take the time to prepare your emergency plan. Discover more information on page 6 about how you can prepare.

In the dance with nature's formidable forces, Queenslanders are resilient, showing that, with preparation, collaboration, and a dash of meteorological humour, we can navigate any atmospheric twist.

I wish all of our readers a safe week ahead,

Amanda

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In a sugar-covered gesture, a local mum and her young son spread a little sweetness during a challenging morning for Anita Pritchard and her children.

Facing the unexpected hardship of waking up to a power outage caused by a car accident near their home, the Pritchard family found themselves on the way to an appointment with empty stomachs.

The thoughtful duo ahead in the line at Mount Pleasant Donut King surprised them by purchasing a dozen cinnamon donuts, paying it forward in an unexpected and delightful way.

Though Anita's children eagerly chased after them to express their gratitude, she took to a local mother's group on Facebook to extend her heartfelt thanks.

In the spirit of generosity, this simple yet impactful act reminds us that a little sweetness goes a long way, especially in times of unexpected challenges.

Anita said her children can’t wait to pay forward the kind gesture to someone else.

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Anita Pritchard’s children with the box of doughnuts bought by the generosity of a stranger. Photo source: Anita Pritchard, Facebook

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The Isaac Regional Council is set to receive a crucial funding boost from the Queensland Government, securing $70,200 in grants as part of the Flying-Fox Roost Management in Queensland Program. This initiative, now in its sixth round, disburses over $620,000 among sixteen Queensland councils, empowering them to enhance flying-fox management projects. The funding will enable Isaac Regional Council to implement low-impact actions outlined in their Hoods Lagoon draft flying-fox management plan, focusing on roost habitat improvement, sprinkler system installation, and the delivery of an educational awareness program.

Minister for the Environment and the Great Barrier Reef, Minister for Science, Leanne Linard, emphasises the government's dedication to assisting local councils in managing the impacts of flying-foxes while recognising their ecological significance, stating, “The State Government is committed to supporting local councils to manage the effects of flying-foxes on their communities.

“We know that flying foxes can present challenges when they co-exist with residents, but these protected native animals also have a vital ecological role in dispersing seeds and pollinating flowering plants, as well as keeping our native forests healthy.

“The successful projects in this latest round of grant funding will help to reduce the impacts of urban flying-fox roosts and support local communities to co-exist with flying-foxes.”

While the latest funding completes the allocation of the original $2 million funding commitment to the program, the 2023-24 State Budget extended the program by committing an additional $500,000 per year for the next three years.

The Department of Environment and Science works with the Local Government Association of Queensland to deliver the program and ensure that funds are targeted to the areas of greatest need and provide maximum long-term benefits for roost management in local government areas.

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On Saturday, just after 4.00pm, RACQ CQ Rescue received word from Queensland Health that four hikers needed help after it received a triple 0 call.

The chopper headed to the dense bushland of Cape Hillsborough to search for the bush walkers.

The four were reportedly walking the trails when they became disoriented and overcome by the heat of the day.

On arrival, RACQ CQ Rescue quickly located a hiker in steep, wooded terrain. A Rescue Crew Officer was winched to the site to determine what medical support was needed. A second person was located with the hiker sighted from the air, accounting for two of the four bush walkers.

A 17-year-old male was ambulatory and able to communicate with the RCO which was a relief to all. His 18-year-old female companion had succumbed to the heat and required considerable assistance from the RCO to be able to be transported to the helicopter hovering above.

The two hikers were winched to the safety of a chopper where a doctor and a paramedic were able to fully assess and treat them. They were flown to the Mackay Base Hospital for further evaluation.

The remaining two hikers had made their way out of the bush on foot and did not require assistance from the helicopter crew. That was the second emergency task that has resulted from heat related complications in recent weeks, as a man was airlifted from Middle Percy Island on New Year's Eve.

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RACQ CQ Rescue responds to a distress call in Cape Hillsborough's dense bushland, rescuing overheated hikers. Photo credit: RACQ CQ Rescue

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Amid community concerns over potential delays, Mackay Base Hospital's helipad operations are set to temporarily move to Mackay Airport during the forthcoming $250 million hospital expansion. This relocation introduces a travel distance of 5.4 to 6.2 km from the airport to the hospital, sparking apprehensions about extended transfer times. The decision, guided by extensive consultation and expert evaluations, underscores the importance of Mackay Airport as the interim landing site due to not having additional capital expenditure while maintaining a commitment to efficient and secure patient care.

Work on the expansion of Mackay Base Hospital to deliver an additional 128 beds will start next month. Managing contractors BESIXWatpac will take control of the hospital expansion site on 1 February and begin site establishment works.

The hospital expansion will also deliver additional paediatric beds in a new ward with a co-located Ronald McDonald Family Room as well as expanded maternity services.

To safely deliver these works in line with aviation requirements, the current helipad at Mackay Base Hospital will be temporarily relocated to Mackay Airport.

This decision follows an intensive exploration into potential locations for the temporary helicopter landing site by aviation and critical care consultants.

Mackay Hospital and Health Board Chair Helen Darch said the Department of Health and Mackay HHS engaged independent experts and undertook extensive stakeholder engagement to ensure the temporary relocation best serves the needs of the health service and its patients.

“There are many factors at play in determining the safest location for an interim helicopter landing site, and the decision to use the Mackay Airport during our construction phase is the best overall solution based on the independent advice of experts in this field, both in aviation and in critical care,” Ms Darch said.

Ms Darch said the safety of patients and helicopter crews was the overriding consideration for the health service when selecting an interim landing location.

“The decision-making process has been underpinned by our unwavering commitment to transparent consultation and patient safety and comfort,” Ms Darch said.

“Following independent expert advice and consultation with local community groups, the decision for the temporary location considered clinical, environmental, aviation, and technical considerations.

“The temporary relocation will enable the delivery of our vital expansion works, which will include a permanent helipad on campus.”

Ms Darch said the assessment report included consideration of 21 locations at 19 potential landing sites, and considered relevant legislation and safety standards, the landing requirements for the different-sized helicopters and assessed the conditions at each site.

The distance to the Mackay Base Hospital from each potential landing site was measured, and other factors impacting a helicopter landing site such as lighting, security and patient privacy, were also assessed.

“With the report findings carefully considered, the decision to relocate the helicopter landing site to Mackay Airport was bolstered by the location's existing safety procedures and the number of patient movements that already occur via the airport.

“We are talking with the ambulance service, Mackay Airport and CQ Rescue about procedures and resources that may be needed to support this arrangement.”

In supporting the decision of the Board, Mackay HHS Chief Executive Susan Gannon said the health service had sought the opinion of medical experts based in Mackay, Queensland and externally from interstate. The decision was also supported by Queensland Health.

“It’s important to remember that critical care starts when a highly skilled doctor first meets the patient, not when they get to the Base Hospital. They will continue to receive this one-to-one support while being transferred from the helicopter in the ambulance,” Ms Gannon said.

“If a patient is critical, it is better to provide care to the patient in an ambulance and not on a trolley,” she said.

The Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) has reviewed the findings of the various reports and recommendations into the relocation of the Mackay Base Hospital helipad in relation to patient transport arrangements. There will be a dedicated ambulance vehicle at the helicopter base to allow the immediate transfer of incoming patients to Mackay Base Hospital.

QAS acknowledged the need for a guaranteed timely transfer of patients between the proposed landing zone at Mackay Airport and the Mackay Base Hospital, and remains committed to the safe and timely care of patients in all circumstances.

The report concluded that the airport presented the best options based on a number of factors.

The conclusion read, “The analysis of identified options for the establishment of an interim HLS to serve Mackay Hospital during the construction phase of the new P-Block development indicates that the continued use of the existing facilities, protocols and procedures for patient transfers at Mackay Airport (Option 9 and Option 11 in Figure 4) represents the best overall solution for an interim HLS facility.”

In the report, Option 9 is the eastern apron area currently used by fixed wing air ambulance flights as well as helicopter air ambulance flights operated by QG Air and CapRescue services. The travel distance to the hospital from the east apron is 6.2 km for which Google Maps nominates a travel time of 10 to 16 minutes. Option 11 refers to the existing CQ Rescue base with a travel distance to the hospital of 5.4 km and a travel time between 9 and 14 minutes.

Option 9 (East apron) and Option 11 (CQ Rescue, west apron) are the existing on-airport areas where patient transfers already occur with established protocols and procedures available and in use. As such, both options are available without delay and the efficiency of the current operations can be enhanced by considering the suggested ‘tweaks’ to protocols and procedures identified in the stakeholder consultation.

The report also concluded, “It is noted that the road ambulance transfer options provide the best patient care as the patient is stationary inside the moving vehicle and can be given maximum attention by the attendant medical crew that travels with the patient. One key advantage of the on-airport options is that they currently exist and the identified enhancements can be implemented with minimum delay and at a nominal cost, significantly less than would be involved in any alternate development requiring capital expenditure.”

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Locations 8 – 12 were all considered at Mackay Airport, with the report finding in favour of locations 9 and 11 where existing infrastructure is already located. Image source: Mackay Hospital and Health Service

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