Mackay Sugar mills have closed for another sugar cane crushing season with the final bin being tipped at Marian Mill at around 2.00am on 25 December 2023, following Racecourse and Farleigh Mills that crushed out on Friday 22 December.

“Our people have worked tirelessly throughout the season to see more than 99% of the total crop harvested and processed and I know our workforce, along with growers and contractors, are glad to finish the crushing season,” said Carl Morton, Mackay Sugar General Manager Operations.

“It is never good when cane is left in the paddocks at the end of the season and ideally, everyone would have liked to see a consistent supply of quality cane that meant the mills could remain operational until the entire crop was harvested,” said Mr Morton.

Mackay Sugar made the difficult decision to stop crushing for the season due to declining harvest allocations in the week leading up to Christmas, and more than 70% of harvesting contractors had declared by Friday 22 December that they had finished work for the year, with others finding paddocks inaccessible due to recent wet weather.

Whilst official numbers won’t be available until next week, Mackay Sugar’s initial season summary reports a total 5.15 million tonnes of cane was crushed over the 30-week period with an expected production of more than 684,000 tonnes of raw sugar. Mackay Sugar also generated approximately 181,440 MWh of renewable electricity throughout the crushing season across its three mills, with some 86,677 MWh of that being exported into the national grid and supplying local Mackay households.

“To ensure we can get a good start to the next season we are already working on critical path jobs, including an extensive list of capital improvement projects that we have already started to implement,” said Mr Morton.

“One of the major projects we’re excited to deliver this year is the replacement of the entire high grade fugal stage at Marian, which kicked off several weeks ago with the demolition of redundant equipment in preparation for further cleaning and removals scheduled to take place this week” he said.

“In addition, we are well prepared for key maintenance tasks and have large amounts of materials already in our stores to ensure we have a seamless transition into our maintenance season,” explained Mr Morton.

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The final bins were tipped on December 22nd at Racecourse Mill. Photos supplied: Mackay Sugar

Anglo American has forged a crucial partnership with Emergency and Long-term Accommodation Moranbah (ELAM) to provide vital support to families and individuals facing crises across the Isaac region. This significant collaboration spans two years and focuses on delivering essential food relief measures through the Community Pantry and Emergency Relief initiative.

At Anglo American’s Moranbah North and Grosvenor mines, dedicated donation bins have been installed to gather non-perishable pantry goods donated by staff members. These donations play a pivotal role in keeping the pantry fully stocked and ready to assist those in need.

ELAM manager Tracy Chapman said, “ELAM’s vision is to combat hunger, achieve food security, and improve nutrition in our community.” She highlighted the critical role Anglo American plays, not only in funding this essential initiative but also in encouraging ongoing donations from its employees.

The collaboration extends beyond food provision. ELAM’s Food for Thought Program has been instrumental in delivering 65 breakfasts and lunches daily to several schools, including Moranbah State School, Moranbah East State School, Moranbah High School, and Coppabella State School.

Principal Anthony Edwards from Moranbah State School expressed deep appreciation for Anglo American’s sponsorship of the Food for Thought Program in 2023 and 2024. He underscored the program’s significance in ensuring no child faces hunger at school.

“People may not realise Moranbah has a large population of families doing it really tough,” he remarked, emphasising the considerable number of students from families struggling to put food on the table.

Highlighting the program's impact, Edwards elaborated, “If a child arrives at school and they haven’t eaten, they can grab something to eat (through the Food for Thought Program) and be in class on time like their peers.”

He stressed that this initiative reduces the stigma associated with food insecurity, allowing every student to access the program without any embarrassment or discomfort.

Anglo American’s commitment to Moranbah’s social services sector extends significantly, with a total investment of $621,000 over two years. This partnership aligns with their existing $463,000 mental health initiative with Moranbah and District Support Services. The aim is not only to alleviate food insecurity but also to contribute positively to the well-being of individuals and families within the Isaac region.

Mrs. Chapman concluded, “We are committed to fostering a community where everyone has access to essential resources, ensuring a more secure and thriving community for all.”

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Tracy Chapman - Manager, ELAM and Paul Stephan - General Manager, Grosvenor Mine

Bravus Mining and Resources was recognised in prestigious mining awards for its leading environmental management and Indigenous engagement programs at the Carmichael mine near Clermont in central Queensland.

The regional Queensland business was named a finalist in both the Excellence in Environmental Management and Sustainability and the Indigenous and Community Engagement categories at the 2023 Australian Mining Prospect Awards.

The Prospect Awards are among the most respected national industry awards for Australia’s mining and minerals processing sector.

Bravus Mining and Resources Head of Community, Communications and ESG Kate Campbell said the nominations acknowledged the company’s significant investments in responsible mining practices.

“The Carmichael mine has some of the strictest environmental conditions of any resources project in Australia’s history,” Ms Campbell said.

“That means we also have some of the best environmental monitoring and scientific research programs in the world, especially in the areas of groundwater and species management.

“Being a finalist in these awards is due recognition of the outstanding work our talented environmental teams and their research and Traditional Owner partners do at Carmichel to ensure we continue to operate in a way that is responsible, sustainable, and protects the environment and our neighbours.”

The Excellence in Environmental Management and Sustainability nomination is for innovative AI-supported monitoring of the endangered Black-throated Finch.

Bravus Mining and Resources developed a targeted Management Plan to protect local Black-throated Finches and their habitat and researchers built an automated call recogniser to help track bird movements and to identify individual bird's home ranges, providing insights into their day-to-day behaviour.

The automated call recogniser has proved a more accurate method to detect the finches than visual surveys and the findings have been published in scientific journals to improve surveillance of other rare birds around the world.

The Indigenous and Community Engagement nomination is for collaboration between Bravus Mining and Resources and Wangan and Jagalingou Traditional Owner business, Woongal Environmental Services, for ecological management of the 33,000-hectare conservation area that surrounds the Carmichael mine.

Bravus Mining and Resources’ Indigenous Participation Plan has a $250 million First Nations contracting and business development commitment.

Woongal was initially engaged for monitoring and surveying across the mining lease and in the Doongmabulla Springs Complex area but has since expanded its services at the Carmichael mine to include fauna spotting and catching, erosion and sedimentation control, weed and pest management, fencing, research into groundwater-dependent ecosystems, and road and track maintenance.

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Woongal ecologist Janelle Vanderbeek and ranger Cecil Sullivan heading out to do biomass and fauna surveys at the Carmichael mine. Photo and story supplied by Bravus

In a world racing toward sustainability, the clarion call for recycling and repurposing has never been louder. The urgency to save our planet from the brink of environmental degradation is pressing. As we grapple with the consequences of excessive waste and finite resources, the ethos of recycling emerges as a beacon of hope. It's not just a choice anymore; it's a necessity, a fundamental responsibility we owe to our planet and future generations.

In a world where the fate of our metal matters, Wade Ruffin, the Business Development Manager at Raw Metal Corp, stands as a steward of the recycling revolution. For four years, Wade has delved into the dynamic realm of recycling, lured by the environmental benefits of repurposing scrap metal to save our planet. His passion for customer-centric roles led him to Raw Metal, where the chance to make a difference, one piece of metal at a time, became a career mission.

Wade explains, "The recycling industry, despite its current strides, is still in its infancy, with immense room for growth and innovation."

Recycling has become a focal point in today's world. As the survival of our planet increasingly hinges on efficient waste recycling, Wade finds the industry's evolution truly captivating. At Raw Metal Corp, their mission is clear: reuse, recycle, and repurpose.

Their Mackay yard boasts the only metal shredder in Queensland north of Brisbane, a machine that can take an entire car and methodically strip it down. "This technological marvel rescues items that would otherwise find their way to the landfill, saving time and reducing costs," Wade emphasises.

Raw Metal Corp is set to introduce a colossal shear to the Mackay facility, capable of slicing large steel objects into smaller, more manageable pieces for shipping and recycling.

Wade and his team ensure that no piece of metal goes to waste. From your grandmother's old fridge to the excess metal from large-scale mining operations, Raw Metal Corp transforms scrap metal into cash. "We facilitate farm cleanups and even provide a free removal service for metal scrap from homes," Wade adds.

"It's a concerted effort to encourage responsible recycling and reduce our carbon footprint.”

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Wade Ruffin, Business Development Manager at Raw Metal Corp

Hot off its sold out 2023 UK Tour, ‘A Taste of Ireland―The Irish Music & Dance Sensation’ returns with a performance that is ‘Celtic―for this decade’. Laugh, cry and jig into the night with a show that has entertained thousands, as A Taste of Ireland returns to Mackay for the first time in 3 years.

Having performed over 300 shows since 2019, ‘A Taste of Ireland’ has merged cultural traditions, modern flair, and craic galore to deliver a performance that has brought the house down night after night. This season, join an acclaimed cast of champion Irish dancers, dazzling musicians, and a contemporary vocalist, as they blend Irish charm with mind-blowing talents to present an unforgettable night of entertainment.

Featuring revamped classics like ‘Danny Boy’ and ‘Tell Me Ma’, the show’s energetic blend of melodic folk music mash-ups, live jaw-dropping acapella tap battles, and heart-warming emotion, transports you through the story of Ireland’s tumultuous history - complemented by stunning production and lighting.

Starring dancers from Lord of the Dance alongside a treasure trove of Irish Dancing Champions, ’A Taste of Ireland’ merges international Irish dance stars with the very best talent in the nation to deliver intricate choreography that is 100% live.

With over one hundred and fifty 5-star Facebook reviews, ‘A Taste of Ireland’ is exactly what it promises: a taste of everything you love about Ireland with a generous helping of more!

Don’t miss your chance to see one of the world’s most prominent Irish dance shows before it takes off around the globe once again! ‘A Taste of Ireland’ returns in 2024, and it’s truly ‘Celtic―for this decade’.

What: A Taste of Ireland

When: 22 June, 2024. 7:30pm

Where: MECC

Tickets: themecc.com.au

Discovering foods that offer not just sustenance but a mood boost is the ultimate win-win. Here's a roundup of seven potent brain foods that do more than just satiate your hunger—they supercharge your memory, focus, and mood. These foods are not just about eating; they are about nourishing your mental well-being, and they make the perfect addition to your 2024 diet!

Fatty Fish: The Brain's Omega-3 Treasure Chest

Reeling in omega-3 fatty acids, fatty fish like salmon and sardines aren't just excellent protein sources; they're the go-to for brain essentials. Laden with mood-boosting serotonin and dopamine, they nurture your brain and its structural components, fending off inflammation and promoting emotional well-being.

Eggs: Memory Fuel and Happiness Makers

Eggs—more than just breakfast essentials—are rich in tryptophan, boosting serotonin, and choline, a memory and learning champion. With the #1 spot for choline content, they fuel your memory and pave the way for sharp thinking and learning, making every day a "senior moment"-free experience.

Berries: The Antioxidant Delights

Berries, from blueberries to raspberries, pack a powerful punch with anthocyanins, protecting brain cells from oxidative damage. They promote the formation of new brain cells and defend against age-related mental decline, while their rich flavonoids bolster cognitive skills, making them a colourful, cognitive superstar.

Avocados: The Brain's 'Perfect' Friend

The creamy avocados stand out as a nutrient-dense fruit, boosting memory, and learning capabilities with their healthy fats. With vitamins C, E, K, and B complex, they act as nutrient catalysts, enhancing brain function, promoting blood flow, and keeping your focus sharp.

Kale: The Nutrient Dynamite

Love it or not, kale is a nutritional powerhouse, brimming with antioxidants, B vitamins, and omega-3s. With its rich reservoir of vitamins C and K, it's a verbal memory supporter, fighting brain aging, and preserving cognitive health, making you forget about "forgetting words."

Dark Chocolate: A Blissful Treat

Indulge guilt-free in the blissful effects of dark chocolate, a serotonin and magnesium source, and anandamide provider—the "bliss molecule." Boosting endorphins and enhancing mood, it's the ultimate pleasure without the caffeine jitters.

Walnuts: Brain's Nutritional Kingpin

Walnuts, the standout in the nut family, top the charts with ALA, the plant-based omega-3 fat, fueling your brain and fighting brain aging. Laden with serotonin and brain-protecting antioxidants, they're the real brain boosters.

These seven food wonders aren't just about satisfying hunger—they're your 2024 mood lifters, working behind the scenes to invigorate your brain, sharpen focus, and make every day brighter. Incorporate them into your diet, and let the food-mood magic begin!

Ah, the annual dance with fitness resolutions!

It's time to dust off those joggers, because we're diving into a new workout routine – literally! Let's talk about making waves – quite literally! Picture yourself in your chicest water gear, grooving along with an aqua aerobics class. It's like a dance party, except you're in a pool, bopping to the beat and working those muscles without even noticing.

Now, for those sceptical about aqua aerobics, let's debunk the myth that it's just for water enthusiasts or older people. It's for everyone! The class vibe is like a secret society of aquatic movers and shakers, where the water makes everything feel like a fun challenge. There's a certain grace in trying to do jumping jacks submerged in water – it's an art form in itself!

Now, for some solid motivation. Ever considered hiring a personal trainer? They're not just there to count reps; they're your friendly drill sergeant, cheerleader, and occasional comedian. It's like having your very own hype squad! They'll keep you accountable and make workouts feel less like a chore and more like a pool party.

Here are some other fun ways to get moving in 2024.

Hula Hooping for Health: Remember those childhood days of spinning hula hoops around your waist? Well, it turns out they aren't just for playgrounds! Grab an adult-sized hula hoop and give your core a whirl. It's a surprisingly effective workout that tones your waistline and gives you a giggly nostalgia trip at the same time.

Trampoline Therapy: Bouncing around like a kid on a trampoline is not only a blast but also a fantastic workout! A mini-trampoline, also known as a rebounder, can be your secret weapon. It’s low-impact, fun, and works wonders for your cardiovascular health. Plus, it's like a built-in stress reliever – who can resist smiling while bouncing?

Dance, Dance, Dance: Turn your living room into a dance floor! Blast your favourite tunes and dance like nobody’s watching (even if the neighbours are). Not only is dancing a joyful way to exercise, but it's also a fantastic stress buster. So, put on those funky socks, show off your groovy moves, and let the music be your fitness guide!

Remember, fitness doesn't have to be a chore; it can be an adventure! So, grab those yoga pants, hop like a kangaroo, or laugh your way to fitness. The goal is to have fun, move that body, and start the year feeling fabulously fit!

Balancing business and family life is like performing a daily magic act. For Mackay's multitasking mavens, here are some real tips and tricks to ace this balancing act without dropping the ball:

Set Boundaries: Draw a clear line between work and family time. Allocate specific hours for business tasks and then switch off completely when it's family time. Imagine it as a "Do Not Disturb: Family Zone" sign popping up on your mental door.

Delegate and Prioritise: Embrace the power of delegation. Learn to prioritise tasks—some things can wait while others need immediate attention. Delegate chores at home and empower family members to share responsibilities.

Embrace Technology Wisely: Use tech to your advantage. Schedule tasks, set reminders, and automate what you can. Leverage technology for flexibility—those conference calls don't always need to happen from the office!

Establish Support Networks: Surround yourself with a strong support system. It could be friends, family, or even a professional network. Having a support circle provides both emotional and practical support when the juggle gets intense.

Time Management Mastery: Develop a ninja-like grasp of time management. Break tasks into manageable chunks, set realistic deadlines, and reward yourself for meeting them—chocolate, anyone?

Self-Care Isn't Selfish: Prioritise self-care! A well-rested and content businesswoman is a powerhouse. Schedule "me time" without guilt—be it a yoga session, a good book, or that long-overdue bubble bath.

Flexibility is Key: Be flexible and adapt to change. Life isn't a rigid schedule; it's more like a rollercoaster ride. Embrace the twists and turns and learn to go with the flow.

Learn to Say No: Understand that you can't do it all. Saying "no" sometimes doesn't make you less capable—it means you're conscious of your limits and priorities.

Be Present: When you're with family, be fully present. The same goes for work. Multitasking sometimes means not giving 100% to anything. Quality over quantity, always.

Communication is Vital: Have open, honest conversations with your family and colleagues about your needs and expectations. Clear communication fosters understanding and support.

Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all solution. Balancing the juggle is about finding what works best for you and your unique situation. Embrace the messiness, laugh off the chaos, and celebrate the victories—big or small!

So, to all the incredible business mavens across Mackay, here's to you! Here's to your ability to juggle spreadsheets and soccer practice, to navigate family dynamics and corporate boardrooms with unwavering grace. Because let's face it, who needs a workout routine when you're lifting the weight of the world, one strategic decision and sport’s practice at a time?

Yesterday we were cracking bon-bon’s eating stacks of food and getting more sand around our feet than a nesting turtle off Blacks Beach. But where has that time gone? It was only yesterday that we were seeing in the new year! What a night that was on Sunday at the Bluewater Quay! The Smurfs were brilliant! Time is certainly going too quickly.

The next thing you know we’ll be playing beach cricket at the harbour and cooking a few snags on the BBQ for Australia Day. That’s only days away.

I reckon the biggest thing right now for parents around Mackay and the Whitsundays is getting their children ready for the school year.

Maybe you’ve got your little one starting high school for the first time at Mackay North. You could even have a little one getting it ready for primary school at West Mackay. It doesn’t matter which school they are going to, having everything ready for the big day is huge.

Bag checks. Lunch boxes ready. The right sized shoes as your gems might have already grown out of them in the holidays. It can happen! Books, pencils, school uniforms and tech gear are all things that must be sorted and quickly.

The last thing you want is to try and work it out on Monday Jan 22. It’s not going to end very well at all. Do it now is my advice.

Think about it this way. Do it just like Grade 3 maths. Today is Jan 5. That means there’s only a couple of weeks until this ‘get back to school stuff’ becomes real. Not long really hey! Take out the 6 days of weekends that just leaves 11 days to sort it out. If you also account for a few meltdown days of perhaps 2 a week, that only leaves 7 days to get ready. That’s 7.

Not a lot of time to make sure you and the kids are all set to go into 2024. I hope it goes to plan.

Oh by the way, you might want to ask the family where you want to go camping for Easter time. It’ll be here before you know it, just like those hot cross buns on the shelves now. That’s another conversation. Have fun.

You can join Rob Kidd from 5am weekday mornings on 4MK 1026 AM in Mackay and Proserpine, 91.5FM in Airlie Beach or just ask your smart speaker to play 4MK on iHeartRadio!

Mackay Regional Council has approved funding for some fair dinkum community events for 2024 Aussie Day celebrations.

Funding ranging from $400 to $1000 will support 13 Australia Day celebrations by local not-for-profit groups.

Deputy Mayor Karen May said the wide range of events and locations for 2024 was great to see.

“From barefoot bowls and live music at Seaforth to beach games and races at Sarina Beach, there really is something for the whole family,” Cr May said.

“The Australia Day events are spread around the Mackay region from Armstrong Beach to the Mackay City Centre, north to St Helens Beach and west to Eungella,” she said.

“Held at various times throughout the day and at 13 locations across the region, the events are a perfect opportunity to celebrate what makes our region great.”

Joanne Freegard from the Eungella Community Development Association said the committee was thrilled to receive a grant.

“It’s been a long time since the ECDA committee had applied for an Australia Day event grant from council and we were very excited to be successful,” Ms Freegard said.

“We’ve partnered with a number of local groups to help put on a grassroots community BBQ and twilight market,” she said.

“The event will run from 3pm to 10pm at the Eungella Community Hall and will have something for the whole family.

“Bring the kids and come on down for some backyard cricket, thong throwing competitions, live music, American style barbecue, twilight market and more.

“We just ask that people book in advance if they are planning to attend the dinner at 6pm, via the website at hillbillybakehouse.com.”

To be eligible for funding, all events had to be held on the Australia Day public holiday (Friday, January 26), be free for all to attend and be within the Mackay Regional Council area. Please note some events may have a fee for some rides, activities, food or drinks.

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A list of council supported Australia Day 2024 events can be found below, with more information available on the council website at mackay.qld.gov.au/ausdayevents:‍

Armstrong Beach Progress Association – Australia Day Celebrations 2024, 3pm to 10pm, Llewellyn Hall, Armstrong Beach Road, Armstrong Beach.

Eimeo Surf Lifesaving Club – A day at the beach, 3pm – 9pm, Eimeo Surf Lifesaving Club, Eimeo Esplanade, Eimeo Beach.

Eungella Community Development Association – Eungella grass roots BBQ and twilight markets, 3pm – 10pm, Eungella Memorial Hall, 5 North Street, Eungella.

Grasstree Beach Progress Association – Grasstree Beach Australia Day Sundowners, 4pm – 8pm, Grasstree Beach foreshore.

Habana and Districts Progress Association – Australia Day the Habana Way, 3pm to 7pm, Habana Community Precinct, 1091 Mackay-Habana Road, Habana.

Mackay Bowling Club – The Aussie tradition of lawn bowls, noon – 4:30pm, Mackay Bowling Club, 27 Nebo Road, Mackay.‍

Mackay Contract Bridge Club – Contract Bridge Aussie Day come and try, 10am – 3pm, Mackay Contract Bridge Club House, 414 Shakespeare Street, West Mackay.

Mackay Surf Life Saving Club – Australia Day 24, 10:30am to 2:30pm, Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club, East Point Drive, Mackay Harbour.‍

Sarina Bowls Club – Social Aussie Day event, 1pm – 3:30pm, Sarina Bowls Club, 1 Patroyce Court, Sarina.‍

Sarina Surf Lifesaving Club – Australia Day at Sarina Beach, 1pm to 5pm, Sarina Beach Esplanade, Sarina Beach.‍

Seaforth Bowls Club – Australia Day on the green 2024, noon till late, Seaforth Bowls Club, Walsh Avenue, Seaforth.

St Helens Beach Progress and Environment Association Inc – St Helens Beach Aussie Day Celebrations, 9am to 4pm, Repulse Esplanade, St Helens Beach.

The Scout Association of Australia Qld Branch (Banksia Scout Group) – Australia Day Open Day, 10am to 1pm, Jaycee Park, Bedford Road, Andergrove.

The new Soggy Doggy game is a splash of fun!

The perfect warm weather game has just launched in store. Ideal for young pet lovers, Soggy Doggy is the suspense-filled interactive board game sensation that has kids on the edge of their seat. Kids take turns rolling the dice and giving Soggy Doggy a bath as they race around the board. But watch out- he loves to shake himself dry! Get soaked and you’re sent back to start.

2018 Winner of the prestigious Toy of the Year (TOTY) award, Soggy Doggy is shakin’ things up with a new look. Designed for ages four to eight years, Soggy Doggy is an easy and fun game for kids to enjoy and keep entertained for hours.

Each round takes about 10 minutes and is ideal for two to four players. Kids can unleash their imagination with this immersive experience as Soggy Doggy takes you for a round of showering, shaking, wet doggy fun. Race to wash this playful pup for a fun-soaked time that brings the whole family together. Share some laughs and try not to get splashed!

Soggy Doggy (RRP $29.99) is available in major retailers Kmart, Target and Big W, as well as Amazon and independent trade.

Hi everyone and welcome to the first Whitsunday Life for 2024!

I hope everyone had a relaxing and enjoyable Christmas and New Years break. For me, I headed back to my parents for the week of Christmas, before coming back up to Airlie Beach for New Years Eve.

And I must say, Airlie Beach certainly knows how to party!

With the amount of visitors we currently have in town, this shouldn’t surprise me, but looking out over the crowds at both the 8.30pm and the 12.00am-midnight firework shows on the Airlie Beach Foreshore, it did astound me how many faces I just did not recognise.

But all in the same, we stood together and joined in the celebrations, with our loved ones beside us.

And in that moment, we all witnessed something spectacular, and welcomed the new year.

Now, of course, it’s New Year, New Me, so here are some of my boxes on my 2024 bingo card.

I want to actually go to Park Run. I signed up months ago and have chickened out every single week on going.

I signed up for netball and soccer last year, and I want to do that again. I loved meeting all the new people and having a regular commitment to sport. It was also so lovely to get out of the house during the week and enjoy the fresh air.

I want to explore the region a little bit more. I was able to tick off Conway Beach last weekend, but I still haven’t gone to Hamilton Island yet. There is just so much beauty in this area and every weekend I need to be out and about.  

What are your resolutions for 2024?

Similar to mine or completely different.

Looking forward, the team at Mackay and Whitsunday Life are excited to continue delivering community-based news for the region, with a particular focus on the joy and happiness that is so rampant in the community.

Cheers to 2024!

For Airlie Beach resident Jj Saleh, establishing the men’s support group was an easy decision, one where he could support and be supported by likeminded men in the region.

“The group allows for a safe space for men to express their feelings, to feel vulnerable, and reintroduce accountability,” Jj explained.

Jj himself is on his own self-healing journey and wished to create a group to foster connection with males, to share and grow.

“I thought it would be good to give back and share what I’ve learnt.”

Having only held a small number of catchups, Jj is excited to grow the group and welcome new men into the weekly meetings.

“I turned to facebook, and had 15 men reach out, however none came to our last meeting for 2023. This caused me to reframe the intentions of the group, because when you come to the group, you’re not just coming for yourself, you’re coming for the other men. You are their support, and you are needed.”

The weekly meetings take place in nature, where breathwork and grounding oneself is critical. This is followed by Individual Share and an accountability pack, a seven-day promise to yourself.

“Everyone shares what they’re going through. And if you don’t want to share, then you have to share why you don’t want to share. This is what brings men together.”

“Female relationships are often the talking to each other, with a task secondary, when, with men, it’s fishing, beers, or sport is the task, and talking rarely happens.

“I couldn’t be prouder of the men who have come along to the meetings, of sharing and supporting each other.”

The group meets weekly, on Thursday evening, 6.30pm, so that members approach the weekend with confidence.

“You know you're supported and you’ve decided your accountability for the week. You won’t drink on the weekend cause you told the boys you wouldn’t on Thursday, that sort of thing.”

To learn more, contact Jj on Facebook or Instagram, @jjsaleh.

Australia Day celebrations have been thrown into disarray, due to false information generated by news outlets, stating that Whitsunday Regional Council has decided to scrap Australia Day Ceremonies and Citizenship Ceremonies.

Whitsunday Regional Council was named alongside Burdekin Shire Council, Bundaberg Regional Council, and Toowoomba Regional Council.

However, Whitsunday Regional Council wishes to share that they have not scrapped Australia Day and Citizenship Celebrations and are gearing up for a big day of fun and festivities.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Julie Hall said it was disappointing that Council needed to address the recent circulation of false news regarding the cancellation of the Australia Day citizenship ceremony.

“Let me be unequivocally clear: this information is entirely untrue and at no stage did this national media outlet contact the Council to fact check their claims,” she said.

“Australia Day and its associated citizenship ceremony hold immense significance for us as a community.

“It is a day to celebrate our diverse identities, honour our shared values, and welcome new citizens into Our Whitsunday community.

“Any suggestion of cancellation goes against the very spirit of inclusivity that defines our region.

“Our commitment to fostering unity and cultural celebration is unwavering, and we look forward to coming together on Australia Day to mark this important occasion,” Mayor Hall said.

“I encourage our residents to rely on official communications from the Whitsunday Regional Council via our website or Facebook page or statements from Council to our valued local media outlets for accurate information.”

On the Australia Day schedule, from 5pm, the Whitsunday Regional Council is celebrating Australia Day the Whitsunday Way.

5pm will kick off the event with the Citizenship Ceremony, welcoming new members of the community, followed by Australia Day Award Ceremony, acknowledging and honouring those in the region for their outstanding contributions.

Proceeding the ceremonies, there will be a Smoking Ceremony, free lamingtons, live music and free family activities, including wildlife meet and greet, face painting, craft workshops, and fireworks.

“We look forward to welcoming everyone in our community to our Australia Day event,” Mayor Hall said, “and Citizenship Ceremony in Bowen on January 26 where we will welcome more new citizens into our amazing Whitsunday community.”

WHAT: Australia Day

WHERE: Bowen Soundshell, Santa Barbara Parade, Bowen Foreshore

WHEN: Friday, January 26, from 5pm to 8pm

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2023 Australia Day Award recipients. Photo supplied

New data by the National and International Visitor Survey (NVS and IVS) has highlighted the incredible captivation that visitors find with the Whitsundays.

As of September 30, 2023, domestically, the Whitsundays saw 513,000 visitors, an increase of 15.8 per cent over the past three years, with 266,000 or 36.6 per cent, from interstate.

On average, visitors stayed 4.2 nights, down by 1.3 nights over three years, however, spending has increased, with $1.3 billion expenditure, a 28.4 per cent increase over the three years.

Internationally, visitor numbers have jumped from 68,000 to 102,000, from the previous quarter.

This increase coincides with increased stays, with international visitors staying for an average of 8.2 nights, 1.9 nights longer than 2019.

By far, United Kingdom visitors are most popular, with 26,000 arrivals, while North American and German visitor numbers steadily increasing.

Tourism Whitsundays CEO Rick Hamilton commends the region's resilience and strong return in visitor numbers.

"While not record-breaking this time, these results solidify The Whitsundays' position as an unmatched holiday destination,” he said.

We're seeing a slight shift in length of stay as economic factors influence holiday budgets and duration. However, the Overnight Visitor Expenditure and visitor numbers remain strong, showcasing the enduring appeal of our region. We're incredibly proud of our world-class operators and businesses who continue to deliver exceptional experiences for all visitors, regardless of their budget."