Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Makayla Groves and Bianca O'Brien are part of the commercial property team at Blacks Real Estate, supporting landlords, tenants and business owners across the Mackay region. Working as Commercial Property Managers, Makayla and Bianca assist with the day-to-day management of commercial properties, helping clients navigate leasing and property management requirements across retail, office and industrial spaces. Based at the agency’s Wood Street office, the pair work closely with business clients throughout the region as part of Blacks Real Estate’s commercial division. Makayla Groves can be contacted on 07 4963 2522, while Bianca O’Brien can be contacted on 07 4963 2525. CAPTION: Bianca O'Brien works with Blacks Real Estate as a Commercial Property Manager. Photo supplied Makayla Groves works as a Commercial Property Manager with Blacks Real Estate. Photo supplied
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Visitors to Gooseponds Park can expect improved access and connectivity, with major upgrade works set to begin on a replacement pedestrian bridge, new fencing and a renewed shared pathway. The project, to be delivered by D&M Composites Pty Ltd, will include replacing the existing footpath between Valley and Hicks streets with a widened 2.5-metre shared pathway, enhancing links to the popular Gooseponds circuit. Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the project is another example of the Queensland Government delivering for the state and supporting important upgrades for the community. “That’s why we made Works for Queensland funding permanent, to back local councils with the funding they need to deliver vital projects like this for their communities.” A new bridge, parallel to Malcomson Street, will be constructed one-metre higher than the existing bridge to provide increased flood immunity. The existing bridge will remain in place while the new one is constructed directly behind it. Some short traffic delays are expected on Malcomson Street. Traffic control will be in place. Pedestrians can detour via Glenpark and Meadow streets while the work is completed. New fencing will be installed and 23 new trees will be planted along Hicks Street. Work is due to take place between mid-June and late September, weather permitting. Mackay Regional Council have said they apologise for any inconvenience caused by the works and appreciate the community’s patience and understanding. Jointly funded by Mackay Regional Council and the Queensland Government. For more information visit www.connectingmackay.gooseponds-park-upgrades Major upgrades at Gooseponds Park, including a new pedestrian bridge, widened shared pathway, fencing and tree planting, are set to improve access and connectivity, with works expected to run from mid-June to late September. Illustrative image supplied.
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Improved safety, stronger infrastructure and greater resilience are on the horizon for motorists travelling between Mackay and Sarina, with the latest round of Bruce Highway upgrades welcomed as a significant investment in the region's transport network. Member for Mirani, Glen Kelly, said the upgrades form part of the historic $9 billion Bruce Highway funding agreement between the Queensland and Federal governments and will deliver lasting benefits for road users across Central Queensland. Mr Kelly said the Bruce Highway remains one of the most vital transport routes within the Mirani electorate, supporting thousands of vehicle movements each day, including freight transport, daily commuters, tourists, school buses and emergency services. “Roads are consistently the number one issue raised with me by local residents, and that's not surprising when the Mirani electorate contains over 400 kilometres of the Bruce Highway stretching from the Mackay city gates right through to Raglan Creek,” Mr Kelly said. “These upgrades are about improving safety, reducing road trauma and ensuring Queenslanders can get where they need to go safely and reliably.” Mr Kelly highlighted the importance of the Mackay to Sarina section of the Bruce Highway, particularly its role in connecting local communities, industry and freight movements throughout the district. “The Mackay to Sarina corridor is one of the busiest sections of highway in regional Queensland. It supports our agricultural sector, our mining industry via the Port of Hay Point, and the thousands of people who travel this route every week for work and family commitments.” “That's why it is fantastic to see significant investment being directed towards projects such as pavement strengthening at both the northern and southern entrances to Sarina, along with ongoing works at Bakers Creek.” Works at Bakers Creek include bridge resurfacing and repairs to expansion joints, helping improve skid resistance and road performance during wet weather. Mr Kelly said, “Many locals were concerned about the significant deformation that had developed in the road surface at Spider Creek. “The upgrades delivered there, including road widening, wide centre-line treatments and audio tactile line marking, will provide a much safer journey for motorists.” While the investment is a welcome boost for the region, Mr Kelly acknowledged that additional improvements are still required. “For too long, Queenslanders have had to accepted that travelling on the Bruce Highway means dealing with potholes, narrow sections and safety concerns.” “These upgrades are a major step forward, but nobody is pretending the job is finished.” “We will continue advocating for further investment because regional Queensland deserves a Bruce Highway that is safe, resilient and fit for the growing freight and passenger task it carries every day.” “Every upgrade matters. Whether it's a major highway project, a bridge repair or pavement strengthening, these investments help keep people safe and keep our regional economy moving.” For more information on the Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program and Bruce Highway Upgrade Program projects, visit www.yoursay-projects.tmr.qld.gov.au/bruce-highway-priority-projects Bruce Highway upgrades at Bakers Creek and Sarina will boost safety and strengthen a key transport link for Central Queensland motorists. Photo supplied
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By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay A decade ago, Queensland Canegrowers was in the throes of a fierce defence of growers’ right to choice of sugar marketer. Now, the industry has been called to consider the future of the Code of Conduct that emerged from that industry debate. Growers retain an interest in the sugar produced from their sugarcane, and in the 2010’s, the industry moved away from a single desk marketer model with new marketers emerging. Some industry players wanted growers to market only through their miller. The situation was resolved through good support from some key politicians of the day – and particularly the then member for Dawson George Christensen – and through some strong and important industry tools including the 2015 “Real Marketing Choice” amendments to Queensland Sugar Industry Act, then at a Federal level in 2017 with the introduction of the Sugar Industry Code of Conduct. The Code of Conduct requires parties to negotiate in good faith, and protects growers’ ability to choose who markets their Grower Economic Interest sugar, and provides access to pre-contract arbitration if negotiations break down. This week, submissions closed in the review of the Code of Conduct, with the Australian Government to consider these and consider whether the Code be allowed to sunset as scheduled on 1 October 2027, or be retained as is, or with changes made. CANEGROWERS is committed to the Code being retained in its current form. In our view, the current Code continues to provide an essential and balanced framework that promotes fair dealing, transparency and workable commercial discipline across the sugar supply chain. The review is intended to examine whether the Code is meeting industry needs and objectives. The Australian Government has described the Code as supporting fairness and transparency in commercial arrangements, and that objective remains as important today as when the Code was introduced in 2017. The underlying market conditions that justified its introduction have not disappeared. In most cane-growing regions, growers cannot simply switch counterparties if negotiations fail. Cane is perishable, harvest windows are tight, and freight economics limit alternatives. In that setting, the Code performs an important public policy function by establishing minimum rules of conduct and a framework for resolving bargaining impasses. Those protections are not redundant; they are fundamental to a fair negotiating environment. Importantly, the current Code is not an excessive or unworkable intervention. It does not remove commercial risk, guarantee outcomes, or prevent parties from pursuing their legitimate commercial interests. Rather, it sets baseline expectations for conduct, transparency and process in circumstances where bargaining power is uneven. In our experience, that balance remains appropriate. The Code provides a disciplined structure for negotiation while still allowing commercial parties to reach outcomes that reflect local conditions and business realities. It is critical that the Federal Government upholds this important industry tool, allowing us to retain the Australian sugar industry’s good reputation as an equitable, stable player in global sugar trade. The Sugar Industry Code of Conduct protects growers’ ability to choose who markets their Grower Economic Interest sugar. Photo supplied
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The Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors celebrated the 20th anniversary of being active in the region this Thursday with a special event held in their honour at Shute Harbour Marine Terminal.
Coordinator Lyn Blanche said the group was extremely proud of this milestone especially since it is a volunteer group.
The Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors celebrate 20 years this week. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
The Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors’ main role is to greet the cruise ship passengers. As they disembark, the volunteers are there to welcome guests to Airlie Beach, they provide maps, information booklets, and ask what passengers want to get out of their day.
Cruise ship passengers only have limited time in Airlie Beach, so if the passengers do not currently have plans, the volunteers can suggest numerous activities.
Browsing through the local markets, exploring the Bicentennial Boardwalk, taking a dip at the lagoon or indulging at one of the restaurants are popular choices.
Many passengers enjoy spending time in a café or eating lunch and Lyn says this is a byproduct of what they are trying to achieve.
“The main priority is to make sure that every person who comes off the boat has a really good time because what we are looking for is return business,” said Lyn.
“We want them to have such a great day in Airlie Beach that they are going to come back again another time and spend a bit longer with us.
“Additionally, we're aiming to support the local businesses, that's the flip side of inviting people and being enthusiastic about the area is that it supports our local businesses as well.”
As Coordinator, Lyn creates a schedule of all arriving cruise ships and then creates a roster open to all volunteers, and those available can greet the passengers.
Lyn has been with the Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors for almost five years and Coordinator for two.
“In July we reached the millionth visitor and it has been fantastic to be able say, we have welcomed our one millionth visitor in our twentieth year,” said Lyn.
“A big thing for us this year was to win the gold award at the Whitsunday Tourism Awards for Outstanding Contribution by a Volunteer or Volunteer Group.”
Visitor Services Manager at Tourism Whitsundays Dea Huvonen helps out Lyn and the Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors where possible and is thrilled with them reaching 20 years.
“It is an incredible achievement for a volunteer group to celebrate 20 years of service,” she said.
“A big warm thank you and congratulations to each and every cruise ship volunteer who has so kindly donated their time over the years.”
Tourism Whitsunday Chief Executive Officer Tim Booth expresses his thanks towards the volunteers and says they showcase our region to travellers.
“Their dedication and warm welcomes make everyone feel right at home, creating an unforgettable experience for everyone who arrives,” he said.
“We want to give a huge thank you to each and every one of the volunteers for helping showcase the beauty of our region.
“In doing so, they create a lasting impression of our community and truly make Airlie Beach such a special destination.”
Cruise Ship Ambassador Lyn Blanche Woodham and Dea Huvonen from Tourism Whitsundays accepting an award for Outstanding Contribution by a Volunteer or Volunteer Group at the Whitsundays Tourism Awards last month. Photo credit: R Jean Photography
Congratulations to the Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors on celebrating 20 years this week – such a huge achievement for this active volunteer group who bring bright smiles and friendly welcomes to cruise ship guests as they arrive in the Whitsundays.
To think they’ve welcomed their 1 millionth passenger this year as well is just incredible.
Twice this week I have been down to the Airlie Beach sign at the Lagoon, once with our journalist Daniel to meet up with the Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors and the second time we went down to interview Tim Booth, the new CEO of Tourism Whitsundays.
It was great to meet Tim who seems like a really nice guy and is full of energy and enthusiasm for the massive role of leading tourism marketing in our region.
You can watch our full interview by clicking the QR code next to the article on page 6, this will take you to our YouTube Channel.
While at the Airlie Beach sign I noticed a nearby landmark had popped-up overnight – the iconic Airlie Beach Festival of Music big-top tent was in-place and ready for this weekend’s festivities.
There is always something that makes your heart sing when you see the big white awning of the tent – the promise of fun and good times – the tent perched on the headland, creating one of the most scenic main-stage venues anywhere in the country.
Now in its 13th year, our local music festival attracts thousands of people from all around the country and, if you haven’t got your tickets yet, I suggest you go and get some!
For the full line-up and an insight into some of the local venues that will be hosting live performances over the weekend turn to page 15 for our special feature.
The weather looks to be amazing all weekend so it will be a spectacular event to attend.
Rach
Quote of the Week: “Life is like a bicycle. To keep your balance you must keep moving” (Albert Einstein)
In November, you might notice more mo’s popping up everywhere. While they often serve as a fashion statement, this month they carry a much deeper significance.
Movember is a charitable organisation dedicated to raising funds for different facets of men's health, including mental health, suicide prevention, testicular cancer, and prostate cancer.
Now emerging as a global movement, Movember is a powerful conversation starter for men worldwide and opens a safe space for those struggling.
Here in the Whitsundays, local men are already embracing the spirit of Movember by growing their moustaches, whether on their own or as part of their workplaces.
Do you think you can grow the best moustache in the Whitsundays? Enter our free competition for a chance to have your 'mo featured in the newspaper! The top mustache will win a business feature valued at $600 for your chosen business.
Join the Movember squad this year and make a difference. Grow a 'mo for your bros and help raise awareness!
Head to Mackay and Whitsunday Life Facebook page on how to enter the competition:
Monday, November 11, marks the anniversary of the Armistice that ended the fighting with Germany in World War I.
Each year, at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, millions around the world observe a moment of silence to honor the sacrifices made by countless individuals, ensuring the freedoms and peace we enjoy today.
Suburbs around the Whitsunday region are all hosting remembrance services to pay respects to the lives that were lost.
Find your local remembrance service below:
Bowen – Bowen RSL, 11TH November 2024, 10:45am
Airlie beach – Cannonvale Cenotaph, 11TH November 2024, 11am
The Whitsunday region is one step closer to being Australia’s first space rocket launch site following the announcement this week that an orbit launch permit has now been granted for Bowen Orbital Spaceport.
If all goes to plan, the first rocket launch for the Gilmour Space launch site in Bowen could happen within the next few months.
Minister for Industry and Science, Ed Husic MP, and the Australian Space Agency has granted the country's first orbital launch permit to Gilmour Space Technologies for its maiden Eris rocket launch from the Bowen Orbital Spaceport.
An Australian launch permit is required under the Space (Launches & Returns) Act 2018 to launch an object from Australia to an altitude of over 100 kilometres. It comes with a number of conditions that must be met before launch, and a mandatory 30-day notification period.
Gilmour Space CEO and co-founder, Adam Gilmour, welcomed the news as a major milestone for the local space industry. "With this green light, we will soon attempt the first orbital test flight of an Australian-made rocket from Australian soil.”
"Our team is assessing the conditions of the permit and will advise on the anticipated launch date for Eris TestFlight1 in the coming weeks."
In March, Gilmour's Bowen Orbital Spaceport was granted Australia's first orbital launch facility licence by Minister Husic and was officially opened by then-Queensland Deputy Premier Cameron Dick.
In September, the company announced it had successfully completed a major wet dress rehearsal of its Eris launch vehicle, progressing the countdown to T-10 seconds.
The upcoming TestFlight1 will be the first of several planned test launches to reach orbit with Eris, which leverages new propulsion technologies developed by the Gold Coast-based company.
Since starting its rocket program in 2015, Gilmour Space has expanded to over 200 employees, built a local supply chain of more than 300 Australian companies, attracted significant private investment, gained support from local, state and federal governments, and actively engaged communities across the region.
Its north Queensland spaceport, one of only a few private orbital launch sites globally, will initially provide access to low- and mid-inclination orbits.
With rockets and satellites designed and built on the Gold Coast and launched from Bowen, Gilmour's efforts have been a boon for regional Australia.
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said this is a huge milestone.
"The launch approval marks an incredible milestone for Bowen and the Whitsundays region,” said Mayor Ry Collins.
“The team at Gilmour Space have been incredible to work with, and their commitment to engaging Bowen residents in this journey is a model of proactive community involvement.
"Success here isn't just about reaching orbit—it's about positioning Bowen as a key player in Australia's journey to space. This is just the beginning."
For updates on TestFlight1, visit gspace.com/missions.
Gilmour Space founders, brothers Adam and James Gilmour
Gilmour Space's Eris orbital launch vehicle at the Bowen Orbital Spaceport in north QLD
Eris on the pad
Photos supplied
Tourism Whitsundays new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Tim Booth is now in the region and started his new position on Monday.
Tim has 18 years of experience in destination marketing organisations, progressing through the ranks and most recently was the CEO of Mudgee Region Tourism before becoming the CEO of Tourism Whitsundays.
Under Tim’s leadership the Mudgee Region increased visitation, visitor spend and won multiple State and National Tourism Awards.
Tim said he is thrilled to be working alongside the dynamic team at Tourism Whitsundays and is looking forward to meeting the fellow Tourism Whitsundays partners and members.
“We have always got to try and be better every day, that’s what we are trying to do for the entire region,” said Tim.
“We are managing the brand for the Whitsundays, we want to make sure that we get the message out there about how beautiful our region is and thankfully its absolutely iconic and world class.
“We have also got to look at continuing to build and be better every day. That’s the community, that’s all of our businesses and continue to offer a world class destination.”
Tim's prior experience includes developing and implementing major projects such as brand redevelopment, social strategy, website overhauls and event-specific platforms like the Everi platform.
He has successfully managed all aspects of digital strategy, including SEO, SEM, social media, and content creation, all while driving a data-led decision-making approach.
Tim is thrilled with his new position saying, “How could you not want to work in one of the most magical places in the world?”
Click on the QR code here to watch the full video of Tim’s interview.
Tim Booth New CEO of Tourism Whitsundays was interviewed by Rachael Smith from Whitsunday Life Newspaper earlier this week. Photo supplied
Last week Bowen Gumlu Growers (BGGA) celebrated a two-day agricultural event titled ‘GrownIn NQ’.
Bowen Gumlu Growers Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Jenn Honnery said the two-day event went well.
“On day-one growers, agribusinesses and related industries, got together for an industry breakfast. We had a couple of speakers talking about their specific industries, soil health and crop rotations and then we headed out for some farm tours,” said Jenn.
“On day two there was an Innovation Showcase. We had about 21 exhibitors showing off a very broad spectrum of Ag tech that's available in Queensland right now.
“It was a great opportunity for growers to get their hands on what's available for their businesses and have a really good chat with their suppliers about what would work for them."
Jenn noted that on day two it was great to see not just Ag tech suppliers and businesses interacting but seeing business to business interaction too.
“At BGGA we're really supportive of growers who are interested in investing in ag tech,” said Jenn.
“Ag tech isn't a new thing. It's been in this space for a very long time.
“I think now it's really drilling down into more data, and the more data you have about your crops, your yields, water management, pest management, the more you can fine tune your business decisions and support cutting costs, and get some real benefits in certainly yields, but also quality of produce.”
GrownIn NQ event was extremely successful with many businesses attending. Photo sourced: Facebook
It’s a new era for the Whitsundays, with our re-elected Queensland Member of Parliament Amanda Camm entering government and the Cabinet as Minister for Families, Seniors and Disability Services and Minister for Child Safety and the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence.
The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry offers our congratulations to the candidates who stepped up to represent our community and responded to Chamber member concerns. We look forward to continuing raising the challenges and ideas of the Whitsunday business community with Ms Camm, particularly the priorities of road infrastructure, business insurance, and increasing regional influence.
The Chamber’s advocacy efforts span all levels of government and regional stakeholder groups, where we are a voice for the business community. We have recently been appointed to the Whitsunday Regional Council’s Economic Development Advisory Group that has the distinct purpose to support and promote the growth, sustainability, and competitiveness of our local economy through collaboration between the local government and key industry and business stakeholders. In addition to this forum, the Chamber has embarked on a series of regular knowledge exchange briefings with Council, and our members for state and federal government.
Yesterday we held our Annual General Meeting, providing positive reports on membership growth, engagement, and financial sustainability. We also outlined plans for the year ahead including the establishment of a Chamber Advisory Group, a strategic think tank that will shape a range a Chamber initiatives such as the federal election, regional economic development, workforce availability and productivity, and our Whitsunday Business Conference. We look forward to sharing updates on our progress and how the business community can get involved.
Contributed with thanks to Alan Milostic,
President of Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
The Council's Greening and Growing Bowen initiative created a recycled water network for Bowen's parks and public green spaces. The recycled water is treated to very high standards, ensuring it's safe for community use. With additional measures like late-night irrigation to ensure absorption before public use, this program saves $250,000 annually. Starting 1 July, the program will extend to Grays Bay Foreshore Park. For more information, check out the fact sheet on our website. https://bit.ly/Whitsundayrecycledwater
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Council recognise that local businesses are the backbone of our economy. When we engage local suppliers, tradespeople, and service providers for council projects, we’re not just delivering value for money; we’re investing in the long-term prosperity of our region.
For local businesses looking to work with councils in Queensland, understanding the strict procurement process is key to successfully securing contracts.
Which is why Council is proactive in hosting FREE workshops, specifically designed to guide you through the council's tender process and boost your chances of success. Our procurement team held a workshop recently at Shute Harbour Marine Terminal and another is planned for Flagstaff Hill.
I know that navigating tenders can sometimes feel complex, but these workshops are designed to make the process simpler and more accessible to local businesses. The workshops give practical insights into the process and allow interaction with procurement specialists to better educate local businesses in understanding the tendering process and improving their chances of success.
Council also gives a percentage weighting to local businesses to make them more competitive because we believe local businesses bring more than just skills and expertise. When they work on council projects, they’re doing more than fulfilling a contract—they’re helping to build the very community in which they live, work, and raise their families.
Using local businesses keeps money circulating within our region. It means jobs for local people, growth for local enterprises, and an economy that’s strong, resilient, and capable of weathering challenges, whether they be global pandemics or natural disasters.
We know that supporting local businesses also brings other benefits—environmental sustainability by reducing transportation costs and emissions, increased engagement and collaboration, and higher levels of trust and accountability, because the people delivering council projects are your friends and neighbours.
Council is committed to ensuring that local businesses have every opportunity to participate in our procurement processes through initiatives like our free tender workshops.
To the businesses that already partner with the council, thank you for your hard work and dedication. And to those considering taking part, I encourage you to get involved, bid for tenders, and help us continue building a bright future for our region.
Together, by investing in our local businesses, we’re investing in a stronger, more connected Whitsunday community.
The B Kinder Foundation is taking meaningful action to foster a kinder world by hosting a Stand and Walk for Kindness on World Kindness Day. Local children will come together to participate in this inspiring event, spreading a message of compassion and encouraging others in the community to join in and make a difference.
The B Kinder foundation offers a positive solution to the mental health issues that youth are facing.
Former Whitsunday resident Danny Mayson-Kinder founded B Kinder to honour the legacy of her beautiful 12-year-old daughter Billie Kinder who tragically died in a horse accident in 2016.
After Billie's accident, her mother, Danny Mason-Kinder, found her daughter’s paintings and poems, which illustrated incredible insights into kindness and empathy. She has since used these to create a book using her daughter’s work.
Seeing how this book inspired others, Danny created the B Kinder Foundation and the broader B Kinder Day, to help spread kindness and combat bullying in the community and within schools.
It is now part of Billie’s legacy to help thousands of children discover the power of kindness through various programs.
These programs and initiatives are having a substantial impact in schools and throughout communities around the country taking positive and preventative action.
Using Billie’s insightful words and beautiful artworks, B Kinder has created evidence-based well-being programs and resources to help children in their pivotal years by encouraging them to become kinder, more empathetic and more compassionate.
Everyone can make a difference. The Walk for a Kinder World will help individuals to connect with community, remind them that kindness matters and help raise funds to supply our programs and resources where they are needed most.
At the event there will be a free sausage sizzle, fruit and water provided as well as everyone receiving a free b kinder card to pass on some kindness to someone else for World kindness day!
Head on down and remember to B Kinder!
What: Walk for Kinder
When: Wednesday 13th November, 7am-8am
Where: Cannonvale Beach Foreshore opposite Fat Frog Cafe
Proserpine State High School students mark B Kinder Day
The grand opening of the Classic Christmas Shop at 18 Main Street in Proserpine, last Friday, was a huge success.
As we enter the festive season, this new Christmas store in Proserpine supplies us with joyful spirit and good cheer.
From snow globes to tree decorations, to ornaments, the Classic Christmas Shop in Proserpine has your festive season covered.
Caroline Garraway is owner of the shop alongside her daughter Alexandra Garraway.
Alexandra Garraway expressed these thoughts:
“Christmas is such a magical time for our family,” she said.
As Christmas is the time to be spreading joy Alexandra also expressed that the store is a place where you can always find joyous Christmas spirit.
“The joy on people's faces is always really fun and we did a little preview night a couple nights ago, with some friends to welcome them to the shop,” she said.
“It was so exciting, and to see everybody wanting to see everything light up was honestly the best.”
The family behind the Classic Christmas Shop are extremely proud of the store they have created.
The opening day was made even more special with Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins cutting the ribbon to officially mark the opening.
Head down to Classic Christmas Shop in Proserpine and make sure to check out the family’s resident Nutcracker Harry. He has been in the family for years and he is always available for a photo.
The family behind the Classic Christmas Shop Caroline, Alexandra, Jessica and Amy Garraway
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins cutting the ribbon
Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
This week
Season to date
Cane crushed
91,441
1,261,715
Average bin weight
9.50
9.61
CCS
13.89
14.05
Cane variety performance for region
Variety
%
CCS
Variety
%
CCS
Q208
20.9
14.53
Q253
10.7
12.30
Q240
20.2
14.08
KQ228
3.3
13.37
SRA9
13.5
14.10
Q252
2.0
13.67
Q183
13.1
14.16
SP80
1.7
13.10
Comments
Proserpine Mill processed just over 91,400 tonnes of cane for the week, bringing the season total to 1.26M tonnes.
Throughput was above budget, following the successful installation of a new injection water pump motor early in the week. This addressed an issue which had been limiting the factory’s crushing capacity.
The average weekly CCS came in below budget at 13.87 units.
The highest CCS was 16.60 units from a rake of ratoon Q208 from the Elaroo productivity district.
Please remember to use your train brain and always take care around our cane rail network.
A fully loaded cane train can take up to one kilometre to pull up. Our cane trains work around the clock, seven days a week.
Peter Luke
Cane Supply Manager
Proserpine Region
The Proserpine Lions Club is excited to announce that students from Proserpine State High School have taken the initiative to establish a young Leo’s Club. This new venture aims to engage local youth in community service, fundraising activities, and a variety of projects designed to support and enrich the Proserpine community.
Leo clubs are the youth arm of the Lions Clubs International organisation, empowering young people who understand the impact of service and are committed to making a difference. Through volunteer work and community involvement, Leo Club members not only improve the lives of others but also grow personally, gaining valuable leadership skills, building lifelong friendships, and creating positive change.
Leo Clubs can be established in schools or within local communities. Each club is supported by a Lions club sponsor, with a designated Leo Club Advisor from the sponsoring Lions club providing guidance. For school-based clubs, a faculty member is often appointed to assist and support the club's activities and goals.
The Proserpine Lions Club will be actively involved in guiding and mentoring the students as they embark on this journey. The Lions believe that this club will not only empower young people but also strengthen community ties and encourage a spirit of volunteerism among the youth.
Proserpine State High School students with Mayor Ry Collins
Proserpine Golf Club is hosting a fantastic fundraising event in support of Breast Cancer and Prostate awareness day.
The event was organised in response to several club members having both breast and prostate cancer. Additionally, event organiser Noelene Spurway was personally impacted, with both her father and a close friend battling one of these cancers.
In previous years, the club has primarily focused on fundraising for breast cancer awareness. However, recognising that prostate cancer is equally significant, the club has decided to expand its efforts this year to support both causes.
This year's event will consist of a variety of activities, including a ‘Best Dressed’ competition, live music and a BBQ. If that isn't enough to get you excited, the club will also be auctioning off a framed signed football jersey donated by Filby's Motors and framed by Whitsunday Framing, a Broncos Jersey, a trip to the reef and a fishing charter, alongside much more.
There will also be a raffle and a 100’s Board, to keep you entertained throughout the day, and to help fundraise for the cause.
If transport is a worry for you, Whitsunday Transport will be providing rides to and from the event for a gold coin donation. The bus will be stopping at all major bus stops from Proserpine to Jubilee Pocket, to ensure anyone wanting to attend the event, can.
Another great perk is that you don’t need to be a club member to join in — everyone is welcome to come out and support the cause. Whether you create your own corporate team or simply show up to play, your participation makes a difference!
Noelene Spurway added that she looks forward to seeing individuals come and support the cause:
“Nearly everyone will have been touched by prostate or breast cancer, whether it's having it themselves, or a friend or family member having it, there's very few people it hasn't touched.
“We are just trying to raise as much money as possible for breast and prostate cancer.”
Prostate and breast cancer are two of the most common forms of cancer, with 1 in 6 men being diagnosed with prostate cancer and 1 in 7 women getting a breast cancer diagnosis. It is, therefore, highly important to support these events.
Join the Proserpine Golf Club for a day of fun and fundraising! Play your best round while fundraising for breast and prostate cancer – and who knows, you might even score a hole-in-one!
What: Breast and Prostate Cancer Awareness Day
When: 24th November, 2024, 10am
Where: Proserpine Golf Club
Come support Prostate and Breast Cancer Awareness day
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