What if you could buy toys that are not only fun, but also educational AND good for the environment? It may sound too good to be true, but Playful Eco makes it a reality! This online toy store is every parent's dream, offering eco-friendly, sustainable toys that encourage creativity, promote learning, and instil a love for the planet.

At Playful Eco, each toy is crafted with care by an experienced early childhood teacher who understands the importance of fostering growth from a young age. Whether it’s wooden blocks, organic cotton dolls, or natural rubber toys, every product has been thoughtfully selected to support your child's development in a safe, fun, and eco-conscious way.

Crafted from non-toxic, biodegradable materials like bamboo, organic cotton, and natural rubber, Playful Eco’s toys provide peace of mind for parents. No plastic, no chemicals - just sustainable, high-quality materials that are both safe for little hands and better for the planet. These toys not only provide hours of fun, but also help children develop key educational skills they’ll use for a lifetime.

We all know kids can be a little rough on their toys, and that’s why durability is a priority at Playful Eco!

Designed to withstand the wear and tear of daily play, these toys are built to last. Whether at home or in a childcare centre, they’re tough enough to handle the enthusiasm of young children. This means Playful Eco toys aren’t just an investment in your child’s growth, but in long-lasting, high-quality playtime.

Choosing Playful Eco also means choosing a cleaner, greener future. The store’s commitment to eco-friendly packaging and sustainable practices ensures that every purchase contributes to reducing waste and carbon footprints. By supporting ethical manufacturers, Playful Eco works with partners who share the values of sustainability, fairness, and quality, ensuring that each toy is produced with care for both people, and the planet.

Tired of the chaos at crowded shopping centres? Shopping at Playful Eco has never been so simple. With easy navigation, detailed product descriptions, and fast, eco-friendly shipping, it’s the most seamless way to find the perfect toy for your little one. Whether you’re shopping for your own child, gifting others, or looking to implement eco-friendly toys into your business or childcare centre, Playful Eco has something for every age and developmental stage.

When you shop at Playful Eco, you say no to toys that end up in landfill, and yes to sustainable options that help your child develop, whilst protecting the environment. It’s a win - win!

“At Playful Eco, we’re more than just a toy store,” said Playful Eco Founder Aleisha Lade.

Contact info@playfuleco.com.au or call 1800 982 638 for more information.

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Melanie Grenier, an employee at one of Mackay's leading creative marketing agencies, redhotblue, will be shaving off her long locks and go bald to raise funds for medical ovarian cancer research.

This cause hits close to home for Melanie, whose family has been affected by various forms of cancer over the years, including her mother, who has been impacted by cancer multiple times. In addition, the redhotblue team is honouring the memory of a beloved former employee, who tragically lost her life to ovarian cancer several years ago.

"Sadly, most people have experienced cancer to some degree, so we know the impact it can have on the individuals suffering, and on the family" Melanie shared.

"It wasn’t until I decided to shave my head that I learned ovarian cancer has little to no standout symptoms, and no reliable early detection methods. It’s scary to think that people can be completely blindsided by this disease".

The majority of women and girls are diagnosed with ovarian cancer at an advanced stage, where the five-year survival rate drops to around 29%. Melanie hopes her fundraising efforts will encourage conversations about the signs and symptoms, early detection, and improved treatments, while also inspiring others to support ongoing research that could drastically improve outcomes for this disease.

Funds raised from the event will go towards the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation (OCRF), Australia’s leading independent funder of medical ovarian cancer research. The OCRF supports promising research projects across early detection, treatment, prevention and more.

The Director of redhotblue, Jody Lee Euler, is very passionate about this cause and stated “if we all do our bit there is a real possibility of a future where an early detection can exist for this silent and deadly killer.”

Community members can donate to Melanie’s fundraising efforts online at www.ocrf.com.au/fundraise/bald-for-the-brave or contribute in-person at the event.

Tickets are now on sale via redhotblue’s facebook event page – BALD FOR THE BRAVE.

Sponsorship opportunities are also available with a unique twist. For anyone interested please contact the team at redhotblue on 4953 2833 or email: jody@redhotblue.com.au

Bald for the Brave is being proudly delivered by redhotblue. A special thank you to our sponsors: Maxyn Asher Hair, Ocean International and Life Publishing Group, home of Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper and Core Life Magazine.

Funds raised will be donated directly to Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation.

WHAT: Bald for the Brave
WHERE: Ocean International, poolside
WHEN: April 4th from 4pm – 10pm.

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From little things big things grow was a great way to describe the growth of Catherine McAuley College, Mackay, according to Principal Jim Ford.

“I think we would be quite unique in terms of our dramatic change in student and staff numbers for the start of the 2025 academic year,” Mr Ford said.

The Catholic co-educational College has commenced its fourth year of operation, having opened in 2022 with the expansion plan seeing the College add a new Year level each year until 2027 as it steadily builds to a full secondary school for Years 7 to 12.

Built on the site of the former Sugar Research Institute, a world leader in sugar research for over 50 years, the college is looking to lead the way in Catholic Secondary education well into the next 50 years and beyond.

“Most importantly, though, we are all about young people and their experience of school at Catherine McAuley College,” Mr Ford said.

“Everyone is new at the start of Grade 7. It’s an exciting and an anxious time for most with an array of uncertainties; ‘Will the teachers be nice? Will I make friends? Will the classwork be challenging? Will I know where to go?”

The answer to all the above, Jim Ford said, is YES.

“High school is an exciting time full of new experiences, challenges, changes, and a much broader curriculum than students have experienced so far in their educational journey,” he said.

“Our dedicated and passionate teachers and staff at Catherine McAuley College are here to make it happen supporting students and their families every step of the way,” Mr Ford said.

“It’s extraordinary growth and very much in line with forecast demand from a growing number of families choosing a Catholic secondary education, with our Senior phase to commence as of 2026 and enrolment enquiries are welcome now for year 11,” Mr Ford said.

Catherine McAuley College, striving to live the values of Learning, Courage, Faith and Mercy.

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By Hannah McNamara

In the shadows of rising living costs and a housing crisis, two Mackay organisations - CASA and Broken Ballerina Inc. - are battling to protect society’s most vulnerable. Women and children fleeing violence are sleeping in cars, with crisis services stretched beyond capacity.

“We’re providing motel stays, but it’s just a band-aid fix,” says Jules Thompson of Broken Ballerina.

General Manager at CASA, William Stafford says cases have shockingly doubled in a year. Despite working independently, both organisations collaborate to provide housing, counselling, and support services, reinforcing the importance of local partnerships in rebuilding lives and breaking the cycle of violence and homelessness.

Broken Ballerina Founder Jules Thompson and CASA General Manager William Stafford met last Tuesday to address the pressing challenges of domestic violence and homelessness. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

From Survival To Stability
The Push For Long-Term Solutions

Two powerhouse organisations in the Mackay region have shared their insights on two of the state's most pressing social issues – domestic violence and homelessness.

Domestic violence knows no boundaries, often hidden behind the walls of a house that’s meant to be a home. Yet, with the rising cost of living and a shortage of housing, local organisations like CASA (Community Accommodation Support Agency) and Broken Ballerina Inc. are struggling to provide the help survivors desperately need to break free from the violence.

“Women and children are sleeping in their cars because they’ve got nowhere else to go,” said Jules Thompson, founder of Broken Ballerina Inc.

“So many people are coming to us, but we simply don’t have the accommodation... we can only provide a few nights in a motel... and that’s just a band-aid fix.”

CASA General Manager William Stafford highlighted the overlap between domestic violence and the housing shortage, with cases continuing to rise.

“Last week, we had nearly 10 women come into our service after fleeing. With each case, we’re dealing with individuals who have endured extreme distress and emotional trauma,” said Mr Stafford.

“When we look at the stats, they’re showing about double the numbers we were seeing a year ago, so we’ve had to adapt as an organisation to meet the increased demand for support.

“It can be challenging at times to meet that demand, but our ultimate goal is to provide housing for those experiencing homelessness - whether through crisis accommodation or helping them find a long-term place to stay.”

Ms Thompson is working towards building a Broken Ballerina Safe Haven, where survivors can receive holistic support, including accommodation, employment, education, and counselling, to break not only the cycle of domestic violence but also its ripple effects.

“Our goal is to create a safe haven where people can access support and get back on their feet - whether that’s through employment, study, or breaking the housing cycle, which would be the ultimate goal.”

Both CASA and Broken Ballerina Inc are focused on a future where survivors can easily find housing. However, they agree that it’s crucial for survivors to be willing to accept help and stick to the plans in place to avoid setbacks.

Although both organisations operate independently, they often collaborate by referring clients to either CASA for housing or Broken Ballerina for additional support, such as escape bags or counselling.

Mr Stafford expressed the importance of collaborating with local organisations to provide the best possible outcome for those in need.

“We know we’re making a difference and we have had some really great success stories,” he said.

“It’s the spirit of collaboration that really makes a difference for clients and the wider community, so it’s important for us to maintain that level of collaboration with local DV services in Mackay.”

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Jules Thompson of Broken Ballerina Inc. and William Stafford of CASA are tackling domestic violence and homelessness in Mackay, providing emergency support and working towards long-term solutions. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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For nearly 50 years, the Mackay Scope Club has brought together women dedicated to fundraising for local causes. Meeting monthly at Breezes Retirement Village, the club’s efforts benefit various charities through sausage sizzles, raffles, and even Christmas gift-wrapping.

Ms Brenda Travaskis has been a member for almost a year now and thoroughly enjoys her time fundraising for those in need.

“We hold sausage sizzles, wrap Christmas presents outside Spotlight for donations, and organise Mother’s Day raffles,” she says.

“All the funds go towards supporting a variety of organisations within our community.”

Most recently, the club contributed their hard-earned funds to MARS Wildlife Rescue, a volunteer-run organisation dedicated to rehabilitating injured animals.

Mackay will soon host the National SCOPE Club Conference in June, bringing together members from across Queensland to expand their community impact.

Brenda encourages others to join and said “It’s a great way to meet people while giving back to the community.”

The Scope Club’s work has created lasting benefits for the region, fostering unity and positive change while supporting vital initiatives like MARS Wildlife Rescue and Care Kitchen.

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For nearly 50 years, the Mackay Scope Club has united women to fundraise for a variety of local charities. Photos supplied

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Driver Caught Speeding Over 50km/H Above Limit In School Zone

A 38-year-old Pacific Pines man was caught speeding over 50km/h above the limit in a Southport school zone on February 19. Police recorded his white Tesla travelling at 92km/h in a 40km/h zone during morning patrols. He received a $1,854 fine, eight demerit points, and an immediate six-month licence suspension. This incident highlights the dangers of speeding in school zones, where excessive speed increases the risk of fatal accidents. Queensland Police urge the importance of road safety and encourage drivers to avoid the 'Fatal Five' behaviours - speeding, drink and drug driving, seatbelt non-compliance, fatigue, and distraction.

Domestic Violence Charge, Moranbah

A 32-year-old Moranbah man has been charged following a domestic violence incident on February 22. Police were called to a home on Connor Drive around 10:15am after reports that the man had assaulted and stabbed a woman, causing injuries to her elbow and behind her ear. Upon arrival, the man reportedly armed himself with a bladed weapon and stayed inside the property. After negotiations, police arrested him at 11:30am. Both the man and the woman were treated for non-life-threatening injuries. The man has been charged with grievous bodily harm, assault occasioning bodily harm, serious assault on a police officer, and breaching a domestic violence order. He has been refused bail and is scheduled to appear in court on February 24. Investigations are ongoing.

Reference number: QP2500323212

Theft of Cabling, Paget

Between February 14 and 15, cabling was stolen from a business in Paget. Thieves used implements to damage a secured gate, then drove a vehicle onsite to steal heavy cabling drums. Police are urging businesses storing cabling to secure their property and report any suspicious activity.

Reference number: QP2500301008

Arrest Following Altercation, Mackay City

A 26-year-old Mount Pleasant man was arrested on February 20 after an altercation on Mangrove Road, Mackay City. Police officers observed the incident and intervened. The man allegedly ignored warnings and grabbed at an officer’s vest. A knife was found on him during a search. He was charged with public nuisance, assaulting and obstructing a police officer, and unlawfully possessing a knife. He will appear in court on March 10.

Reference number: QP2500312822

Business Break-in, Mount Pleasant

On February 17-18, intruders broke into a business on Grandview Drive, Mount Pleasant, by smashing a glass panel. They searched the premises but nothing has been confirmed as stolen. Police are asking anyone with information to come forward and report suspicious activity.

Reference number: QP2500294115

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For 45 days, volunteers set up two wrapping stations inside the shopping centre, offering beautifully wrapped Christmas gifts in exchange for a gold coin donation. While each contribution may seem small, the collective effort has resulted in a substantial impact.

This year, the funds raised will be distributed across three key beneficiaries: BMA CQ Rescue ($52,000), QRAT ($10,000), and Ronald McDonald House ($2,000). The generosity of shoppers, combined with the dedication of volunteers, has ensured that these essential services continue to support those in need.

Caneland Central marketing manager Lianne Gee expressed pride in being part of this initiative.

"We look forward to it every year.

“What better way to celebrate the festive season than to have charity literally at the heart of what we do."

BMA CQ Rescue CEO Tim Healee was astonished to hear about the $52,000 donation to the emergency helicopter service. In recognition of their contributions, BMA CQ Rescue will now display the ESA Alpha Rho logo alongside major partners on their new AW139 helicopters.
"We can’t thank ESA Alpha Rho enough for what they do for us.

“We rely on community support so that we can continue to save lives. This contribution is appreciated by all of us at BMA CQ Rescue.

“We want ESA to know that they are valued, and we see how hard they work year in and year out.

“What better acknowledgement than to adorn the helicopter with their logo," said Healee.

The statistics behind the gift-wrapping effort roll out beyond measures!

Over 112 volunteers gave their time, making it the most successful year yet. Volunteers spent a combined 450 hours at the wrapping stations, ensuring that at least 11,200 gifts were beautifully wrapped.

It is estimated that around 16 to 18 kilometres of wrapping paper was used, along with a staggering 24,000 meters of sticky tape!

Volunteers begin preparing months in advance, handcrafting decorative bows and preparing supplies to ensure the smooth running of the initiative. A portion of the funds raised is reinvested to cover the costs of wrapping materials for the following year.

QRAT volunteer Paul Crowe highlighted the significance of ESA Alpha Rho’s support.

"We run solely on community donations, and by far, these ladies have been one of our biggest supporters," he said.

"Their donations have been ongoing, and they allow us to continue providing essential support, including the search for missing persons."

Mr Crowe even offered to hug each volunteer individually as a heart-warming representation of his thanks.

Toni-Maree Ernst from the Neighbourhood Hub also shared how the funding will benefit the organisation, as well as the broader community.

"The funding will go a long way in boosting our supplies for hygiene products and essential food items for our vulnerable community members.

“The Neighbourhood Hub has been established for over 33 years - we are a not-for-profit organisation with two locations, one on George Street and the other on Shakespeare Street."

BMA CQ Rescue representative Tegan Philpott praised ESA Alpha Rho’s ongoing generosity.

"It’s absolutely phenomenal - who would have thought that you could raise so much money from wrapping Christmas presents?"

She emphasised the financial demands of running the rescue service.

"We have to find $6 million every year within the community to be able to fly, and to say that over $50,000 came from a Christmas gift wrapping exercise is just amazing."

ESA Alpha Rho volunteer Bonnie Spratt finds great fulfillment in what she does despite the significant amount of work that goes into it.

"That’s just what you do…because you're helping somebody less fortunate," she said.

"To see the smiles on little kids' faces when you're wrapping presents for their mum and dad…it's just wonderful. I just love it."

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ESA Alpha Rho raised $72,000 for local charities through their Christmas gift wrapping stations at Caneland Central, with funds benefiting BMA CQ Rescue, QRAT, and Ronald McDonald House. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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"Don’t let anybody put you down… be strong, don’t let anyone tell you what to do. Go for what you want to achieve, follow your dreams… and be happy."

These powerful words from 64-year-old Patricia Boneff encapsulate her journey of resilience, courage, and triumph over adversity.

Like many individuals with disabilities, Pat faced barriers that kept her out of the job market for years, often feeling stuck and uncertain of her future. After enduring domestic violence, Pat could have easily succumbed to her challenges, but instead, she rose above them with great determination.

Her journey to employment began when she joined the Disability Employment Services (DES) program at APM Mackay, seeking support to overcome her barriers and secure a stable job. It was here she met Sovana, an APM employment consultant who became instrumental in helping Pat navigate her path to success. Together, they worked on updating her resume, identifying suitable job opportunities, and addressing her mental health challenges with the help of counselling services.

With the support of Sovana, Pat obtained her Blue and Yellow Cards, completed her police check, and gained the confidence she needed to apply for a cleaning role. After practicing interview techniques, Pat secured the position and stepped into her new role with pride.

Now, as a confident employee, Pat encourages others to follow their dreams, no matter the obstacles.

Pat is incredibly proud of what she has accomplished, especially in her role as a cleaner, which she loves. She gained much of her experience in previous years helping her late-mother who worked in a motel when she was younger, and has now been in the cleaning profession for over a year.

During this time, she has met many great people and even won awards for her work.

Pat said, “I enjoy my cleaning, it gets me out and I’ve met a lot of friends along the way.”

“I’ve achieved a lot since I’ve been out of that domestic violence situation.”

She’s also deeply proud of her two children, Jessica and Bradley.

Known for her strength, courage, and big heart, Pat has earned a reputation for helping others, with those around her describing her as having a “heart of gold.”

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Hey everyone!

Hope you’re all doing amazing.

If I’m being honest, I can’t wait to relax this weekend! The last couple of weeks have been absolutely chockers. Between unpacking, deep-cleaning and setting up our new home, it’s been non-stop… not to mention keeping a close eye on Facebook marketplace like a hawk to find the best deals on furniture!

Despite being a little sleep deprived, I’m still overwhelmed with gratitude as I move into this next chapter of life.

I remember when I first got my license, I used to drive up to the Northern Beaches all the time, simply because I just loved the drive… and now I’m living there! It’s crazy how life unravels sometimes. You just never know what kind of opportunities are out there, and that’s the beauty I find in life.

I had the privilege of meeting with CASA’s General Manager Will Stafford and Broken Ballerina Founder Jules Thompson earlier this week to discuss the ongoing issues of domestic violence and homelessness. It was such an eye-opener, and you can read all about it on the front page.

A few years ago, Broken Ballerina helped me through a tough time, and their support is one of the reasons why I’m thriving today – along with the grace of God.

Every day is yet another chance to be grateful for what you have, and if you can’t find anything, just be still, and know that better days are coming!

“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” — Romans 12:12.

   Hannah

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The North Queensland dad had unknowingly become the country’s newest multi-millionaire, holding the only division one winning entry in Oz Lotto draw 1619, drawn Tuesday, 25 February 2025.

“Holy fing s!” he exclaimed.

“Are you kidding me?! Holy s***!

“Oh my lord! Oh my lord!

“I can’t believe it. Holy, holy, holy!

“I had no idea. I’m just starting my day at work. I have to call my parents and partner immediately!

“My mum is really into lotteries; she won’t believe it.

“I’m really trying to wrap my head around it all myself. I can’t believe this. Oh my god!”

With $15 million now in his pocket, the generous man can’t wait to lend a helping hand to loved ones, offering support to those who’ve been doing it tough.

“I’ll help my friends and family who have been really struggling,” he shared.

“I have a few people in mind. I can’t wait to make their lives easier.

“I’m very grateful, very blessed.”

His winning 12-game QuickPick was purchased via The Lott app – the official home of Australia’s lotteries.

The winning numbers in Oz Lotto draw 1619 on Tuesday 25 February 2025 were 12, 8, 11, 30, 17, 46 and 18, while the supplementary numbers were 24, 37 and 42.

Across Australia, there was one division one winning entry in Oz Lotto draw 1619 – one in Queensland.

The Lott’s division one winning tally has now reached 316 so far in FY25, including 82 won by Golden Casketcustomers.

In 2024, 17 Oz Lotto division one winning across Australia collectively won more than $295 million.

During this time, the biggest Oz Lotto prize was a $50 million jackpot pocketed by a man from Burra in South Australia.

Of the 17 Oz Lotto division one winning entries in 2024, nine landed in New South Wales, three each in South Australia and Queensland, and two in Victoria.

Tickets can be purchased at any licenced lottery outlet, online from thelott.com or via The Lott mobile app.

The official home of Australia’s lotteries, The Lott operates and markets Australia’s leading lottery games customers know and love creating everyday winners, winning every day.

In 2024, more than 195.3 million winners took home more than $4.84 billion in prize money from their favourite games at The Lott, including Saturday Gold Lotto, Weekday Windfall, Powerball, Oz Lotto, Set for Life, Lucky Lotteries, Keno (SA), Super 66, Lotto Strike and Instant Scratch-Its.

Last financial year, Australia’s official lotteries contributed more than $1.8 billion via state lottery taxes and donations to help community initiatives, such as hospitals, health research, disaster relief and education.

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Locals have been eagerly awaiting the historic launch of Eris TestFlight 1, the first Australian-designed and built rocket aiming for orbit. Now, the wait is finally over with the No Earlier Than (NET) launch date confirmed for the 15th of March, marking the maiden flight of Eris.
This milestone follows final airspace approvals, marking years of research, development, and manufacturing. The company, which also built Bowen Orbital Spaceport, received Australia’s first orbital launch facility license and launch permit.
CEO Adam Gilmour emphasises that launch delays are normal, early attempts are challenging, and building sovereign space capability is crucial.
Backed by private investors, Gilmour Space aims to position Australia among leading spacefaring nations. Regardless of the outcome, the launch signifies a historic step for Australia's space industry.

NET Launch Date announced for Eris TestFlight 1.

Bowen Is Shooting For The Stars!

The countdown has begun. Gilmour Space Technologies has announced a launch window opening no earlier than the 15th of March for the maiden flight of Eris which is the first Australian-designed and built rocket aiming for orbit.
This milestone follows the final airspace approvals from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) and Airservices Australia, clearing the last regulatory hurdle before launch.
It also represents the culmination of years of pioneering research, development, and manufacturing by the Gold Coast-based company, which has designed and built both the Eris launch vehicle and the Bowen Orbital Spaceport in North Queensland.
Gilmour Space made history last March when its Bowen Spaceport became the first in Australia to receive an orbital launch facility licence. The company further cemented its status as a national leader in space exploration by securing the country’s first Australian Launch Permit for the Eris TestFlight 1 in November.
Now, with airspace arrangements finalised and the required notice given to the Australian Space Agency, Gilmour Space is gearing up for liftoff.
"This will be the first attempt of an Australian rocket to reach orbit from Australian soil," said Adam Gilmour, co-founder and CEO of Gilmour Space.
With the March 15 window fast approaching, Mr. Gilmour shared some key points to note before launch:
Firstly, it's important to understand that delays or 'scrubs' are a normal part of rocket launches. These can last anywhere from hours, to days, or even weeks, and are often caused by weather conditions, technical issues, or other factors. "Safety is always the top priority. We'll only launch when we're ready, and when conditions are appropriate," he said.
Secondly, the first launch is always the hardest. Reaching orbit is a highly complex engineering challenge, and every successful rocket company has faced setbacks in their early attempts—SpaceX, for one, did it on their fourth attempt.
"It's almost unheard of for a private rocket company to launch successfully to orbit the first time. Whether we make it off the pad, reach max Q, or get all the way to space, what's important is that every second of the flight will deliver valuable data that will improve our rocket's reliability and performance for future launches."
Thirdly, this is the road we must take to build sovereign space capability that's critical for Australia's future. Launching Australian-owned and controlled rockets from home soil means more high-tech jobs, greater security, economic growth, and technological independence. "Only six countries in the world are launching regularly to space using their own technology, and Australia could soon be one of them."
Finally, he said: "I want to thank our incredible team at Gilmour Space for all their hard work and dedication in getting to this critical first flight. Whatever happens next, know that you've already made history—we now build rockets in Australia. And this is only the beginning."
Get ready for liftoff Bowen!

Eris TestFlight 1 preparing for liftoff!
Eris Testflight 1 is the first Australian-designed and built rocket aiming for orbit.

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The Proserpine Entertainment Centre hosted the second Australian Citizenship Ceremony of the year this week on the 25th of February. From individuals to large family groups from 18 different countries, 38 people took the pledge and chose to become Australian Citizens here in the beautiful Whitsundays. Mayor Ry Collins, Councillor Jan Clifford, Uncle Leo Gabey, and Whitsunday Regional Council’s Director of Services and Facilitation Julie Wright presided over the ceremony.
“For myself and for council, this is probably one of the better parts of what we do, really recognising the contribution of people that come from outside of our country and have chosen to settle here and now become an Australian citizen,” said Mayor Ry Collin.
Mr Collins stated that to hold another ceremony just speaks to the greatness of the region, and the how all the new citizens choosing to settle here will be a great contribution to the region.
Uncle Leo welcomed all the new citizens and recognised the traditional owners of the land, the Gia and Ngaro people, saying it was an honour and a pleasure to attend the ceremony and perform the Welcome to Country.
“It was great, a great atmosphere, and it always is when I come here to do these citizenship ceremonies. I'm always happy that I get to do a Welcome to Country, it was just excellent” said Uncle Leo.
The joyful sentiments of the ceremony were felt all around by all who attended from the youngest pledgers to the eldest. Councillor Jan Clifford reflected on this saying; “I'm just delighted to be here today to welcome our new citizens. It's one of the most wonderful things that I get to do as a councillor, and I wouldn't miss it for the world.”

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Mayor Ry Collins congratulating the youngest new Australian Citizen. Photo Credit: Victoria Velton.
New families settling in the Whitsundays is great for the region. Photo Credit: Victoria Velton

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Hello Everyone,

I am writing this Editor’s Note on my 43rd birthday from a hotel room in the Burdekin where I have just attended an Industry Breakfast and will shortly be meeting up with the local Mayor and CEO of Council.

It’s always nice coming up to the Burdekin, the people here are fantastic, but I always look forward to the drive south, returning to the turquoise waters and my cosy little beachside life. Especially today, where I have family waiting to see me.

As I reflect on the year that was and the year that is to be, the milestones, the moments – the ‘taking stock of life’ that inevitably happens once a year on my birthday –  I simply feel incredibly lucky and incredibly grateful to be here another year, surrounded by loved ones and doing a job I love.

They say that passion leads to great things and that is certainly true for the family team behind Gilmour Space Technologies, whose impending rocket ship launch features on our front page this week.

At the office, we have been earnestly following news of the launch with our journalist Ruth determined to get an invite to the event.

It is undoubtedly one of the biggest events ever to happen in our region and one that will attract international attention – many eyes will be on the Whitsundays and that is exciting not just for the aeronautical industry, but also local tourism and overall economic growth.

This is a wonderful coup for our region and it is certainly drumming up some excitement and conversations – stay tuned to our Facebook page where we are publishing any updates and announcements as soon as they are released.

Wishing all our dear readers the most wonderful week,

Rach

Quote of the Week: “In the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years” Abraham Lincoln

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Dr. Alice Harriott is no ordinary dentist; she is also a ‘Dancing CEO’, raising money and awareness for Women’s Legal Service Queensland (WLSQ), in an effort to break the cycle of domestic violence across our state. Combining her roles as a dentist, fundraiser and now dancer Dr. Harriott has created two special raffle prizes, designed to change lives. For just $25 a ticket, participants can win either a dental care package worth $9,000.
The prizes offer a full orthodontic diagnosis, braces, or aligners, ensuring a perfect smile for the winners, and in a generous twist, the prizes are transferable, meaning if the winner doesn't need orthodontic work, they can pass it on to a family member or friend.
“Maybe you don’t need the work yourself but you might have a child who does, or even a good friend,” Dr Harriott said.
“Whoever you pick to receive this treatment, the end result will be the same – beautiful smiles for everyone involved, including the women and children that WLSQ will be able to help as a result of receiving your raffle ticket price.”
All proceeds from the raffle will go directly to WLSQ, helping break the cycle of domestic violence. The winners will be announced on March 30th at the Epic Walk for DV in Coral Sea Marina Gardens, so get your raffle tickets by scanning the QR code, or by following the links on the ‘Team Whitsundays Dancing CEOs’ Facebook posts.

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https://pulse.ly/x3yk2qwyzp
1800 WLS WLS (1800 957 957) the state-wide helpline for legal advice, and 1800 457 117 for the Rural, Regional and Remote Legal Advice Line. DV Connect: 1800 811 811, and 1800 RESPECT: 1800 737 732
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Dr. Alice Harriott at her dental clinic. Photo Supplied: Sharon Smallwood

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Cunard’s latest addition to its cruising fleet, Queen Anne, is due to anchor offshore at Airlie Beach next Wednesday 5 March.
 
Launched in May 2024, the magnificent modern ship completed sea trials and shorter journeys before embarking on her inaugural world cruise on 9 January 2025 from Southampton carrying just over 2,600 passengers.
 
Onboard from Southampton to Sydney were Whitsunday locals Dr Julia and Richard Evans presenting their creative writing program.
 
“We had the absolute privilege of meeting many international guests and gaining new friends,” Julia said. “Many cruise extensively and they attest that Cunard Queen Anne is a five star experience.”
 
“As Whitsunday locals we were sought out to share with guests what to do to maximise their day in our wonderful region,” said Julia, who also coordinates operations for the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce.
 
While onboard, Julia and Richard Evans presented their creative writing program with over 1,700 guests attending the 16 interactive workshops.
 
“Our sessions attracted enthusiastic writers with amazing stories to share,” said Richard. “Many have kicked-started creative projects onboard and we look forward to continuing to support their writing journey online.”
 
Queen Anne’s inaugural world cruise has already visited New York after a challenging North Atlantic crossing, Miami, Columbia, the engineering wonder of the Panama Canal, Guatemala, Mexico, San Francisco, Hawaii, Samoa, Tonga, New Zealand before arriving in Sydney.
 
Queen Anne, captained by Inger Klein Thorhauge, Cunard’s first female captain will continue its world cruise for another 107 days heading north to Hong Kong then south to South Africa visiting many countries before rounding the cape and cruising back to Southampton stopping off at various locations.

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Dr Julia and Richard Evans with Cunard’s first female captain Inger Klein Thorhauge. Photo supplied

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