A record number of people have visited the Bowen Visitor Information Centre in 2023 – smashing the previous year by more than 25%.The Visitor Information Centre next to the iconic Big Mango and the Information Booth next to the Little Mango at Bowen’s Front Beach are both operated by the team of staff and volunteers from Bowen Tourism and Business.For the first time in history, the team has welcomed more than 50,000 visitors this year.Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said the busiest months had been June and July when the team had welcomed more than 15,800 visitors in those two months alone.“Traditionally, the winter months are the busiest, but this year has been busier than ever with the number increasing every month of the year compared to 2022.“By the end of November, we had already welcomed more than 52,000 people – so the average will end up being well above 1000 people every week of the year.“This is great news for Bowen as the more people who visit the centre, the more who make the trip off the highway and into Bowen,” she said.“It is also great news for the greater Whitsunday region as we are a booking agency so many people travelling from the north stop to see us, enjoy a delicious mango sorbet, and get a selfie at the iconic Big Mango.“While here, they are able to book their reef trips and other tours based from Airlie Beach.”Chair of Bowen Tourism and Business, Jenn Honnery said the significant increase in visitors to the Information Centre and Booth was a direct result of the effort by the team to promote Bowen to a national audience.“Behind the scenes our team of staff and volunteers work incredibly hard to ensure Bowen is on the radar for potential visitors. Once our visitors arrive they are greeted with a warm smile and expert knowledge of all there is to experience in Bowen and the wider region. “This dedication to our destination translates directly to increased visitor spend in Bowen and a boost for all local businesses.“I’d like to congratulate the team on this impressive achievement.”

QUICK FACTS*More than 52,000 visitors in 2023 up until the end of November.*Busiest month of 2023 was June – 6934 welcomed at Big Mango and 1124 welcomed at information booth at Bowen’s Front Beach.*Highlight of the year was the Big Mango’s 21st birthday in May*Bowen’s Big Mango was built in 2002 and is 10 metres high*More than 1.5 million people have had a selfie at the Big Mango in the past 21 years.

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Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy with the Sortino family from Melbourne and Visitor Information Centre volunteer, Steve Fisher last week. Photo supplied

Intelligent and confident does not begin to describe the four students of Bowen State High School’s F1 team Ignition.

Being one of the world’s most competitive STEM Challengers, F1 in Schools asks students to directly engage with all aspects of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics in order to create the fastest miniature F1 car.

Practicing real-life engineering and manufacturing skills, including design, analysis, testing, creating and then racing, Bowen State High School’s ‘Team Ignition’ flourished in the recent State Finals.

Having recently been selected to progress to the F1 in Schools National Finals in 2024, Keela Ross, Ella Homewood, Madeline Lean, and Matilda Payne have created and constructed their own miniature F1 car.

For these girls, the design and construction of their F1 car was simple, requiring only a few rudimentary designs and test cars, before they settled on the award-winning solution.

“The cars are just made of bolted wood, but they’re accelerated using a CO2 canister in the back,” explained Matilda.

“We’re very proud of our work, because we know we can deliver a great speed,” said Keela.

Tim Close, Bowen State High School Head of Department, explained that the student’s success is a testament to their determination and hard work.

“This is our second year of student’s making it through to state finals, but we’ve never gone through to nationals. We’re just super proud of them, and the effort that they have gone to is remarkable. These students are going to be successful.”

Team Ignition progressed to the National Finals based upon the speed of their car, as well as the calibre of their portfolio, despite a miscommunication on the page limit of the portfolio.

“The regulations say that the portfolio can only have 10 pages, however we modelled ours of a pro-class portfolio which had 20 pages, so only the first 10 pages of ours were marked,” explained Ella.

“That was only our original and draft designs in those pages, not much of our new content, and that cost us a lot of points, but they gave us the wildcard position to move into the Nationals,” she finished.

“They saw potential in us,” Madeline said.

Confident in their design and now reviewing their portfolio carefully, Team Ignition is ready for Nationals in April 2024, which will see them travel to South Australia.

“The judges recognised their hard work,” explained Tim.

“And they saw your potential. The quality of their work and what they are able to produce was industry standard.”

Team Ignition would like to thank their sponsors for their commitment to their work and promoting their F1 in Schools journey.

The school also wanted to give a massive thank you to the following local businesses for supporting the F1 in Schools Journey in 2023.

Their success to the National Level would not have been possible without their support. Sponsors for 2023 were as follows; Diamond Sponsor – Abbot Point Operations; Platinum Sponsors – Whitsunday Regional Council, Hillery Group and NQ Dry Tropics; Gold Sponsors – Whitsunday Civil Pty Ltd, Lowcock Builders Pty Ltd and Snell’s Electrical; Silver Sponsors – RTM Engineering, Kylie’s Family Dental, Flagstaff Hill Café, Bowen Fisherman’s Seafood and Bird’s Fish Bar; Bronze Sponsors – Bowen Automotive, Core Contracting Services Pty Ltd, Yum Yum Dumplings, Lip’s Kitchen, Dynamic Fitness, Dynamic Chiro and Kevla Coffee.

“We’re very excited to get to Nationals and see how we go,” Matilda said.

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Team Ignition is heading to F1 in Schools Nationals

Competing in State Finals, Team Ignition are proud of their work. Photos supplied

One of Bowen’s best attractions is about to receive a facelift, with Whitsunday Regional Council approving the Mullers Lagoon Park Masterplan, at last week's Council Ordinary Meeting.

Mullers Lagoon is 19.5 hectares of Council-run Park land, containing a large lagoon, several picnic areas, small playground, walking paths, unique gardens, diverse bird habitat and bird watching hides.

Council approached the Bowen community for their ideal construction for the upgrades, receiving 60 online submissions and 102 workshop ideas, from March to April 2023.

Consultation resulted in a well-developed and realistic proposal that much of the community is happy with.

The vision includes creating a versatile space for individuals of all ages and abilities, with ample parking, playgrounds, sporting facilities, pathways, seating, BBQ areas, landscaping, shade trees and various activities.

Other upgrades include establishing eco walk trails, made of Deco paths to access habitat areas with signage describing flora and fauna, an events rotunda, off-leash dog play area, and traditional owner and cultural heritage precinct with upgrades to existing sculptures, interpretive and informational signage, and Bush Tucker eco walk.

Mayor Julie Hall said the approval of the Masterplan for Mullers Lagoon is a significant milestone for the Bowen community to upgrade the area located in central Bowen.

“We are excited about the positive impact this staged Masterplan revitalisation will have as the approved plan encompasses various aspects to ensure the lagoon becomes a vibrant and inclusive hub for both residents and visitors.

“Now that the Masterplan has been adopted by Council, we can budget for the stages to upgrade the 19.5 hectares of beautiful parkland smack bang in the middle of Bowen.”

The entire revitalisation of the Lagoon is proposed to occur in stages over 15 years, with the priority on functionality and appeal.

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Mullers Lagoon in Bowen to receive a rejuvenation. Photo supplied

For close to 120 years, Archers Soft Drink has been creating, bottling and distributing their products across the region, and with Proserpine’s 150th birthday, Archers are proud of their stamp on the township.

Steeped in history and lush with connection, Archers continues to be integral to Proserpine and the wider Whitsunday region.

Allan and Michael Horsford are the helm of Archers Soft Drink, and have been since 1977, when their dad took on the business.

So here’s a bit of this massive history.

In 1906, Archers established Archers Soft Drink in Proserpine, creating and distributing a wide variety of glass-bottled soft drinks.

In 1917, Archers Soft Drinks moved to Bowen and set up business. In the late 60’s Archers amalgamated with Unwin Brothers in Bowen and all production moved to Bowen.

In 1977, Allan and Michaels father purchased the business and kept the business going

In 2009, Allan and Michael moved Archers Soft Drink from Bowen to Proserpine.

The move to Proserpine coincided with the brothers deciding to switch focus and focus on producing and distributing spring water across the region.

“80 per cent of our business was in Proserpine and it’s where we started, so it felt like a good move,” Michael explained.

Currently, Archers bottles and distributes over 12,000 litres of water daily, supplying many of the islands, as well as many of the tourism operators.

“We are proud of everything we do and proud of what Proserpine has become. We have a lot of history, both professionally and personally.”

In fact, Allan and Michael’s father was the Proserpine Mayor for six years and with Sir Reginald Ansett was instrumental in getting the Proserpine Airport tarmac bitumen coated.

“We are incredibly proud of Proserpine and we are excited for the 150th anniversary. Proserpine has grown, changed, and prospered.”

For Lui Raiteri, the time spent within the Proserpine sugar industry is enormous and memorable. Spanning over four generations of the Raiteri clan, Lui has called the Up River farm home for 75 years, and now welcomes his son  on to the farm professionally.

During his time in the industry, Lui has held positions on the board of Proserpine mill, BSES  and the Co –Operative Federation of QLD and many other industry boards  giving back to the industry that has given him so much.

And with Proserpine turning 150 in 2023, Lui could not be prouder of the industry that so heavily influences and promotes Proserpine.

The Proserpine Mill was established in 1897, and led to much of Proserpine’s development, encompassing residential, industry, agricultural and infrastructure development.

From 1931 till 2011, the Proserpine Mill was owned by a grower cooperative, which saw many local growers contribute to the growth and prosperity of the mill.

However, in 2011, while Lui was chairman of the  Proserpine Mill Board, the Proserpine Mill was approached by both Wilmar and a Chinese company, who offered to buy out the Mill, and take on ownership.

Taking the offer to the cooperative, the growers of the Mill were initially hesitant, however, after long discussions and much back and forth, the Mill decided to go with the Chinese company’s offer.

“However,” Lui explained, “On the day of settlement, the money wasn’t there. The deal with the Chinese company fell through and the mill went into voluntary administration, as a decision from the growers could not be achieved.

From here, a short fortnight later, the administrator came back to Lui and the Board and gave them one option, to take Wilmar’s offer.

“And the transition was seamless, and each grower received a pay out as well, which was well received, due to previous years not treating us well,” Lui explained.

While this time was hard on Lui and his board, he would do it all over again, as the board at the time were so supportive to him.

“Maybe without all the trauma, but we, as growers, are in a much better spot. As we are now rulers of our own individual destiny.

Over the years, that payout that growers received is one of the most proud moments he remembers as some other areas were not so fortunate.

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Lui Raiteri, a third generation Proserpine cane farmer. Photo Credit: Bronte Hodge

By Paul Gellatly

One of the directors of the Bowen spaceport venture has jokingly promised "the largest party" the town has seen if its Eris rocket launch early next year makes it into orbit.

Adam Gilmour, CEO and co-founder of Gilmour Space with his brother James, told 50 attendees at the December meeting of Bowen Chamber of Commerce about progress towards the launch of their Southeast Queensland-built space vehicle.

With the company planning for an initial 12 rockets and 15 satellites, much is riding on the February/early March launch, although Mr Gilmour tried to hose down expectations of a faultless first launch.

"Every first rocket will fail," he said frankly, "and if it makes 10 seconds into its lift-off, we'd be happy," with a second launch being "a better prospect", and a third launch being the "big hope".

Mr Gilmour hailed Bowen's acceptance of the spaceport venture, which he said promised to make the town part of an exclusive club comprising 11 nations with a space launch capability.

"We've always felt very welcome in Bowen," he said, adding that Gilmour Space had never experienced a "not in my back yard" response from the town.

In fact, he said, a Bowen resident's query, "when do we launch", had been instrumental in securing a $60m venture capital raising, because backers "were incredulous that people in Bowen actually supported us".

Mr Gilmour said he believed that his company could make rockets cheaper, faster, and more economically than other suppliers, because all the complicated componentry could be made at the company's manufacturing facility at Helensvale, between Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

Support was received at community and local government levels in securing the spaceport facility near Abbot Point, which now has more than 100 staff, while at the federal level a visit to the manufacturing facility by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and deputy PM Richard Marles was elevated by their learning that all componentry was made in Australia.

The rocket has a two-metre diameter first-stage and a payload fairing of 1.5m, and it will carry a test satellite to be deployed if the rocket makes orbit.

Mr Gilmour promised a visceral launch experience for Bowen, with people in town still able to feel vibrations from the lift-off about 30km away. The lift-off could also have a tourism angle, with potentially 30,000 people expected to watch from a 5km barrier.

He said the Bowen launch site was chosen because its near-equatorial location gave a wider range of choices for orbits. Further north, the closeness to Papua New Guinea and islands presented regulatory problems.

"Bowen is not too remote to be able to handle launch problems.”

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From left, Gilmore Space founders James and Adam Gilmour with Bowen Chamber of Commerce president Bruce Hedditch. Photo credit: Paul Gellatly

Officially recognised in 1873, the township of Proserpine turns 150 years old in 2023.

The town of Proserpine began when brothers George and Charles Waite took up a parcel of land, from the railway corner to Glen Isla, on the south side of Main Street.

From then, Proserpine exponentially boomed, becoming the central hub that the town now is.

1895 – First school opened, at Kelsey Creek. Stores set up by Jonathon Jupp.

1896 – Jonathon Jupp operated an unofficial post and telegraph office. Proserpine’s first church, Presbyterian Church and Manse

1897 – Proserpine Central Mill constructed. First police station, of two tents, was established.

1902 – Proserpine continued to grow. J Jupp and Sons began a new store on Main Street. The Great Northern Hotel, now known as the Metropole, was constructed.

1904 – Jubilee Pocket saw its first settlement.

1907 – First bank, the Bank of New South Wales, opened on Main Street.

1910 – Proserpine declared a separate shire from Bowen, in January. The first Proserpine Show occurred.

1911 – First public hospital opened.

1919 – First cenotaph established.

1923 – Proserpine Mill produced 35,840lbs sugar can crushed, 4,730 tonnes of raw sugar, 370lbs of tobacco leaf, and 84,80lbs of butter.

1929 – Electricity switched on

1930 – The ambulance opened their own building in Chapman Street.

1939 – Cannonvale Jetty opened for use.

1944 – Secondary education available for students.

1949 – Massive fire destroyed a block of four shops in Main Street.

1951 – Proserpine Airport opened.

1986 – Proserpine Nursing Home officially opened.

1991 - Proserpine Dam officially opened.

1995 – VMR building officially opened

2001 – The new Proserpine Historical Museum officially opened.

2013 – Proserpine Show celebrated its 100th anniversary.

2022 – Official opening of Proserpine Entertainment Centre. Proserpine State School, Proserpine Sugar Mill and Proserpine Police celebrate 125 years.

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Information and images sourced from Proserpine Historical Museum.

In 1860, Daniel Emmerson and his two sons took up leases in the district and on August 30 1861, successfully applied for the lease of The Proserpine Creek Run (The first recorded use of the name ‘Proserpine’).

In 1870, Charles Bradley was the first actual settler living in the Gregory area. About the same time, Mr MacArtney took up land at Lethebrook (then known as Banana Pocket).

Then, in 1872, there was a gold rush at Normanby near Bowen and Happy Valley out from Proserpine where a small township on the diggings at Paul’s Pocket sprang up. J. A. Gregory, after whom the river is named, also settled in the area.

You may well ask why the year 1873 is recognised as when Proserpine started.

The answer? 1873 was the year the Waite brothers, George and Charles, took up a selection of land extending from the railway corner to Glen Isla on the south side of Main Street. They were amongst the first to do so. Pioneer, George Waite, came to be regarded as The Father of Proserpine.

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So, just where does Mavis McClements fit into this story?

Mavis was a member of the Royal Historical Society of Queensland; a passionate and accomplished historian most well-known for writing the book, “The Story of Proserpine: 100 years of Settlement 1873 - 1973” which was commissioned by Council.

The McClements came from the Bankstown area to Proserpine just before Cyclone Ada (1970) after Richard McClements was transferred to Proserpine State High School.

While living in Sydney, Mavis had acquired numerous pieces from second-hand and antique shops however, their home was not a suitable location. So, with all their remarkable collections in hand, two years after arriving in Proserpine, on March 25 1972, their Folk Museum, located in Marathon Street, was opened. The McClements ran their very popular museum until 1980 when they sold it and all its contents to Gordon and Merle Staniland who relocated it to Braemar on the Shute Harbour Road.

Never one to be idle, Mavis was prolific in researching all aspects of the history of the Whitsundays. On April 24 1975, she presented a reading “A Town called Proserpine” at a meeting of the Royal Historical Society. In that same year, she wrote the story of St Catherine’s Parish for their Golden Jubilee Celebrations.

Mavis also completed a history of the Proserpine Sugar Mill which she undertook on a voluntary basis. This research formed part of the booklet celebrating the mill’s 50th anniversary as a co-operative.

From “Proserpine Guardian” September 22 1978 - Mrs McClements’ letter to the editor referred to another history which she had written - the history for the Proserpine Primary School’s 75th anniversary which the then Principal, Mr Kevin Boylan, had asked her to write. Apparently, there was some disagreement between members of the Parents and Citizens Association and the history “never surfaced”.  She also worked on the compilation of a history of the coast between Bowen and Mackay, including the Cumberland and offshore islands.

Ever the advocate for women, in May 1978, Mavis presented a paper entitled “A Tribute to a Working Woman” at the Women and Labour Conference at the Macquarie University.  

Mavis was versatile and her interests many – she was a member of the Arts and Crafts Society and an enthusiastic member of the Australian Labor Party. She also had a most interesting collection of dolls and bears.

We are indebted to Mavis McClements for her work in preserving the history of Proserpine’s first 100 years.

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Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum.

A young one in the 150-year belt of Proserpine, Whitsunday Mowers punches above its weight, a testament to the calibre and experience of the team behind the engine.

For Wayne Drabsch, owner and manager of Whitsunday Mowers, the last five years that he has owned Whitsunday Mowers have flown by, with overseeing an expansion, directing growth, and securing the shopfront as the preferred retailer for Proserpine residents.

However, Whitsunday Mowers’ history is older than that.

“I took it over five years ago, but the business itself was going for about 20 years prior to that,” Wayne explained.

“The business had two people on the books, and we’ve got now five, with a much larger premise. In fact, one of these bays is about the size of our old premise.”

Wayne has also overseen a massive growth in brand’s that he stocks, ensuring that the people of Proserpine have the best equipment for their home.

“I am proud of what Whitsunday Mowers offers Proserpine, the brands that Proserpine deserves, and we’re excited to enter the 151th year of Proserpine township, with the revitalisation of the town happening right now.

“It is good to see people reinvesting into Proserpine, because it’s been some time since money has been spent to make Proserpine prosperous again.”

Despite its youth compared to Proserpine town, Wayne is proud of Whitsunday Mowers, who continue to employ locals, to help locals, and look after locals.

Affectionally known as Dr Bill, Dr William Bowman was Proserpine’s first full time veterinarian. The business is now nearing 50 years young.  Dr Bill gave full time care and attention to the community until his retirement in 2010.

Dr Faye McPherson began locuming for Dr Bill in the 1990’s and loved working with fulltime nurse Billye-Jean Stevens so much that she then permanently joined Dr Bill in partnership in 2003.  Since then, the practice has continued to expand and develop to what it is today.

Proserpine Vet Surgery wishes to serve each and every resident in Proserpine, with confidence, compassion and integrity.

“We are a friendly country service you can rely on – this is our motto and mantra,” Dr Faye explained.

“We offer a wide range of treatments in an affordable way. We strive to give the best service possible and to serve our community the way they wish to be served.  One customer’s wants are often something different to another and we cater to all. It’s a team effort and each and every staff member is vital in the work we do.”

Dr Faye is honored to be a crucial part of Proserpine’s history, and she proudly sponsors many junior sporting clubs and various other Proserpine events.  She looks forward to the next chapter in Proserpine’s future.

“This part of the world is lovely. The climate is the best. The mix of clientele is truly interesting.  Proserpine is a close-knit community and I wouldn’t be anywhere else!”

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The Proserpine Vet Surgery team. Photo supplied

Mackay's Memorial Pool Celebrates 60 Years

By Amanda Wright

When is a pool not just a pool?

It's when it embodies the living memory of valour, sacrifice, and service in the face of conflict, a testament to resilience and community passion.

For the Mackay War Memorial Swimming Centre, its significance transcends being a mere recreational facility. It's a symbol fought for and safeguarded, not just against laps or splashes, but against closure, time and time again, by a devoted community.

Six decades ago, this pool, now a living memorial, emerged through determination and a shared sense of honouring those who served. Erected through funds raised by raffling a house, its construction was more than bricks and mortar. It was sweat and dedication, built by the hands of soldiers returning from war, ensuring a legacy to those who never returned.

That effort was remembered and celebrated at a special 60th anniversary party held at the pool last weekend, with returned soldiers, swimmers and the people behind the pool’s survival marking the impressive occasion.

Mackay's Memorial Pool Celebrates 60 Years Of Legacy

On that historic 14th of December, 1963, the Mackay War Memorial Swimming Centre opened its doors, adorned with a mural capturing the essence of sacrifice and duty. The mosaic, a breathtaking triptych, celebrates the Navy, Army, and Air Force alongside poignant symbols, the Lancaster bomber, battleship, submarine, and the landscapes of New Guinea and Egypt. It stands as a daily tribute to the men and women who selflessly served our nation.

Under the watchful gaze of the sun shining upon a dove of peace and the Southern Cross, the pool was dedicated to the fallen of Mackay and district. The opening ceremony, graced by the Postmaster General and the Mayor, echoed with military traditions; a prayer of dedication, inspection of a guard of honour, and the poignant call of the Last Post.

This cherished landmark, listed on the Queensland War Memorial Register, has remained a vital hub for both remembrance and everyday life. Schools gather for swimming carnivals, local squads train, aqua aerobics classes thrive, and a spectrum of swimmers from athletes to enthusiasts find solace and joy within its waters.

As the 60th anniversary celebrations unfurled, the Memorial Pool resonated with stories, memories, and a sense of pride. Members of the Mackay RSL Sub Branch, the Memorial Pool Community Action Group, and the wider community gathered to honour the past and celebrate the present.

A special appearance was made by Keith Payne VC OAM who spoke passionately about his memories of the Memorial Pool.

Member of the Mackay War Memorial Community Action Group, Carol Single, said, “Our group is so appreciative of the support Keith Payne has given to our group over the past 13 years and the successful Heritage Listing of the Mackay Swim Centre in July, 2020.”

Sue Willett said it was a fantastic event which had been 60-years in the making. This milestone celebration, coordinated by Millie Volpe and the dedicated team from DMR Leisure, echoed the feeling of pride and perseverance that resonates within every ripple of this cherished pool.

Peter Sheedy echoed the sentiments, reminiscing on the pool's humble origins and the pride it invoked among World War II soldiers.

“I clearly recall the huge effort that went into fundraising for this pool and the pride that returned soldiers from WW2 expressed at the time in honouring those who served in both world wars,” he said.

“That pool hosted numerous events in my high school years and later.”

The Mackay War Memorial Swimming Centre stands, not just as a pool, but as a living, breathing testament to remembrance and community, ensuring that the sacrifices made are never forgotten, and the values they represent endure for generations to come.

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The North Mackay Sinkers Masters Swimming Club took out the relay at the Memorial Swim Centre 60th anniversary celebration. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

L-R Back: Mackay RSL President Ken Higgins, Mackay War Memorial Community Action Group Members – Carol Single, Sue Willett, Graham Townsend, Darby Monro, and Jane Conlon. L-R Front:  Dawson MP Andrew Willcox and Keith Payne VC OAM

Photos captured by Carol Single and Amanda Wright during the 60th anniversary celebration at the Mackay Memorial Pool

CatholicCare's School Savvy CQ initiative is a vital lifeline for local families in financial distress during the back-to-school season. Through pop-up shops across Mackay, Rockhampton, Gladstone, and Bundaberg, the program offers crucial low-cost uniforms and essential stationery.

During the official launch for 2024, Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert commended the initiative, stating, 'It was an honour to join with the staff for the official launch for 2024. Well done to everyone involved!'

In a time of rising living costs, School Savvy CQ stands as a crucial resource, ensuring every child has access to necessary educational tools. The upcoming January pop-up shops play a pivotal role in alleviating educational inequalities.

No child should ever be denied an education, especially for reasons completely outside of their control such as facing financial hardship.

School Savvy CQ aims to ensure that every child has access to the basic resources that they need to succeed at school.

For details on locations, visit schoolsavvycq.com.

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Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert attended the 2024 launch of School Savvy CQ, a crucial initiative supporting local families' educational needs. Photo supplied

Parts Of Bluewater Trail To Temporarily Close

The Mackay Base Hospital helipad has reopened after a temporary closure to meet new national helicopter landing guidelines.

The RACQ CQ Rescue helicopter service conducted a successful test landing last week to trial new security procedures for take-off and landings. CASA guidelines issued in November require a 50metre exclusion zone that is clear of parked vehicles and people during helicopter take-off and landings. The exclusion zone is due to the helicopter downwash from the blades which can cause objects such as prams or bikes to be blown away if they are closer than 50metres to the helicopter.

Mackay HHS Chief Executive Susan Gannon said this meant the section of the Bluewater Trail near the hospital would be closed for short periods of time.

“Mackay HHS has worked closely with RACQ CQ Rescue and Mackay Regional Council to see how we can meet the new CASA requirements and reopen the helipad,” Ms Gannon said.

“Mackay Regional Council is happy to support the health service temporarily closing the Bluewater Trail for short periods of time when the helipad is in use.

“Access will be limited during both approach and landing and take-off and departure.

“To minimise disruption to path users, the Bluewater Trail will be reopened when the helicopter is on the ground and the engine has been shut down,” she said.

Ms Gannon asked for community support during the periods when the trail will close. There are an average of one to two helicopter landings a day.

“People will notice a flashing light on the path, and we ask for cooperation from trail users.

“We will also have security staff at the flashing lights and a temporary barricade, and I ask that people are respectful to them.

“They are there for the safety of our patients and to ensure the helicopter can land. If there are any people within the exclusion zone the helicopter will not land,” she said.

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Enhanced safety measures ensure the re-opening of Mackay Base Hospital's helipad, complying with CASA guidelines for secure helicopter landings and take-offs. Photo supplied: MHHS

On the 11th of December, a group of 16 workmates arrived at a restaurant for their Christmas dinner. One of the individuals in the group needed wheelchair access. Despite multiple confirmations with the venue that this would not be a concern, trouble arose. After multiple attempts to lift the 300kg wheelchair into the restaurant, they were unable to attend their booking and had to form a contingency plan.

Unsure of how their evening would unfold, they contacted Harrup Park Country Club and explained their situation. The reception staff on the phone understood the situation and were elated at the opportunity to help. The staff at Harrup Park were more than happy to accommodate the group, even though it was a last-minute booking during a very busy time.

When the group arrived at the country club, they were overjoyed to find bistro staff moving tables and going out of their way to make all necessary accommodations, so that the work colleagues could enjoy their evening, free of concern.

The group have since praised Harrup Park for doing so much to make the Christmas party special and ensure that everyone felt included and had the space to enjoy their night. They have also noted how accessible the building is for those in need of handicapped access, with ramps, toilets and the ability to order food without leaving the table.

Overall, everyone enjoyed their evening, even after the earlier hiccups.

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Harrup Park Bistro. Photo credit: Harrup Park Country Club

I’m eager to know and share in the festive joy!

I’m on a quest to uncover your ultimate Christmas traditions—whether they’re quirky, heart-warming, or downright hilarious. Why, you ask? Well, this year’s Christmas isn’t just about me anymore, it’s the first with our son, who will be almost 9 months old. I’m determined to create traditions that’ll make him giggle, ponder, and possibly spill his milk in astonishment.

What’s your festive secret sauce? Whether it’s an offbeat Christmas Eve ritual involving reindeer socks or a post-Christmas feast sandcastle contest, I’m all ears! Oh, and a burning question: in homes without fireplaces, how does Santa work his magical entry? Is there a secret kangaroo expressway we’re missing?

Traditions are the delightful sprinkles on the holiday cupcake—those quirky rituals that make our hearts merry. Take, for instance, my recent Kiwi holiday home where I tooted my way through the Kaikoura tunnels. Yep, it’s a Kiwi tradition. And just this week, as our home got a fresh concrete slab in the backyard, my little one's footprints and initials now grace our territory. I guess you could call it the foundation of our traditions!

Now, speaking of festive shenanigans, I’ve been invited to an Aussie Christmas blowout at a friend's family farm. Since my folks are far, far away, it's all about diving headfirst into the Aussie festivities! They’ve asked for a classic Kiwi lolly cake, but I couldn’t resist adding a touch of Kiwi flair with a pavlova. I'm also attempting my first trifle. Disaster or masterpiece? Only the North Pole elves know!

But hey, I'd love to hear about your Christmas traditions. Even better, share a photo from past years and tell me the story behind it at amanda@mackayandwhitsundaylife.com. In next week’s edition, our last for 2023, I’ll create a collage of your cherished traditions, capturing the true essence of this festive season.

We will also share a selection of Santa photos, so if you managed to grab a snap with the jolly man in red, send them to me with the names of everyone in the photo.

Here’s to traditions, magical memories, and sharing the laughter that truly makes this season magical!

Warm festive wishes,

Amanda