Proserpine Lake saw a successful Kids Fishing Day at the weekend, with 92 campsites booked out and around 400 people in attendance almost doubling last year's turnout.
Craig Turner, Director of Commercial Businesses at Whitsunday Regional Council, expressed his excitement for next year's event, looking ahead for continued growth and the introduction of live music.
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Mayor Ry Collins and Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm with two children at the Lake Proserpine Kids Fishing Day. Photo credit: Ruth Puddefoot

Droppin’ A Line At The Kids Fishing Day

Photo credit: Ruth Puddefoot and sourced via Facebook

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As we step into Get Ready Queensland Week (8-13 October), it's crucial to reflect on the recent devastating weather events that have unfolded globally. The toll of Hurricane Helene has been catastrophic, claiming over 230 lives across multiple states in the US. Helene made landfall as a Category 4 hurricane in Florida's Big Bend region, marking the deadliest hurricane to strike the mainland since Katrina in 2005.

Hot on Helene's heels, Hurricane Milton is set to strike Florida with unprecedented force, hitting similar states to Helene. With over a million residents in the Tampa Bay area ordered to evacuate, the urgency of preparedness cannot be overstated. At the time of writing, people in Tampa were working furiously to prevent furniture, appliances and other waterlogged wreckage from Helene from becoming deadly projectiles in Milton. Additionally, the destruction caused by Typhoon Shanshan in Japan and Super Typhoon Yagi in Vietnam last month reminds us of the ongoing threat posed by natural disasters.

As we face the approaching cyclone season in Mackay, we must remember that complacency is not an option. The goal isn’t to instill panic but to encourage proactive measures. Consider how you would prepare for a week in the wilderness: ensure you have enough food and water, essential medications, and important documents ready to go. Think about what comforts you might need, such as insect repellent, and have sturdy footwear for unexpected flooding.

Know when to evacuate, where to go, and what to take with you. This preparedness can make all the difference in a crisis.

For more information on how to get ready, turn to page 8 for guidelines from the Mackay Regional Council.

And don’t forget about your furry companions. Ensure your food and water for a week includes them, and don’t forget about keeping an eye on them during extreme heat. Don’t walk your pets on hot pavement or sand during the heat of the day, check the temperature with the back of your hand, and keep those water bowls filled.

Stay vigilant and prepared as cyclone season approaches, the time to get ready is now.

Amanda

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A major funding boost for a significant piece of Whitsunday boating infrastructure could be a game changer for local boaties, with upgrades announced this week to the Shute Bay Boat Ramp and Carpark.
Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm was at the site of the current boat ramp last week and vocalised her intentions to deliver a new four-lane boat ramp and 130 trailable carparks if she is elected for a second term in the upcoming state elections due to be held later this month.
The current boat ramp has been a point of contention for boat owners within the Whitsunday community since it opened in 2021.
The $1.8 million state-owned structure has been called an “engineering disgrace” as it becomes submerged at hightide, with many boaties calling it dangerous and not fit for use.
With the Whitsundays having the highest boat ownership per capita in the state, Ms Camm is concerned our boating infrastructure is not sufficient to meet demand.
If elected, Ms Camm says the LNP government will deliver a new boat ramp and carpark at Shute Harbour, to improve access and safety for the Whitsundays boating community and visitors.
Ms Camm said local boaties have been missing out for too long with second class infrastructure.
“The LNP will restore a government that works for you, with the Right Plan for Queensland’s Future,” Ms Camm said.
“This $10 million investment in infrastructure is exactly what this community needs.
“Better boat ramps and more carparks mean improved safety for those using Shute Bay.
“The Labor Government had a chance to get it right after the Shute Harbour Boat ramp was damaged in Cyclone Debbie.
“Instead, what we saw was a government that refused to listen to the community and offer up a dangerous substandard ramp.
“Well, the LNP and I have listened, and we know that we need better boat ramps and more carparks.
“If elected in October we will commit $10m to a four-lane floating boat ramp with more than 130 trailable car parks,” said Ms Camm.
Mayor Ry Collins welcomed the announcement.
“Having these facilities in place will ensure we can grow as a region and that our boaties in the region will be served for years to come”, said Mayor Collins.
“The LNP are committed to delivering for our regional communities.”
Ms Camm said Queenslanders could vote for a new boat ramp and a government focused on delivering for regional Queensland, by voting LNP at this election.
“Our state needs a fresh start and only the LNP has the Right Plan for Queensland.”

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Shaun Cawood from Shute Harbour Marine Terminal, Mayor Ry Collins, Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP, Councillor Jan Clifford. Photo Credit: Ruth Puddefoot
The current boat ramp is said not to be fit for purpose

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Mackay’s Leap Into Bio-Manufacturing

A groundbreaking development is set to revolutionise Mackay, as Australian food-tech company Cauldron Ferm partners with the Queensland government to establish the region’s first precision fermentation contract manufacturing facility. The $100 million-plus "Cauldron Bio-fab" will become the largest end-to-end contract manufacturer of precision-fermented products in the Asia-Pacific, deploying state-of-the-art ‘hyper-fermentation’ technology to drive down costs and boost production.

The facility, which will have the capacity to produce over 1,000 tonnes of bioproducts annually, is a major step forward in both local and national biofutures. From food and nutrition to beauty, personal care, chemicals, and biofuels, this Mackay-based hub will supply key ingredients and materials to a variety of sectors.

Cauldron Ferm’s new venture will build on the company’s success at its 25,000-litre demonstration site in New South Wales, representing its first industrial-scale bio-manufacturing site and laying the foundation for future global expansion. The Queensland government’s support comes from its $415.5 million Industry Partnership Program, which is committed to growing the biofutures sector and creating new economic opportunities for regional communities like Mackay.

This initiative is poised to accelerate Mackay’s status as a bio hub, leveraging years of government investment in the Queensland University of Technology’s Renewable Biocommodities Pilot Plant. It will also provide a critical commercialisation pathway for precision fermentation, aligning with forecasts from CSIRO, which predicts Australia’s market for precision fermentation protein ingredients could reach $13 billion by 2030.

Minister for State Development and Infrastructure Grace Grace said, “Cauldron is a step closer towards building a first-of-a-kind facility that will produce ingredients used in fibre, fuel, feed and food products at commercial scale.

“The United Nations predicts that globally 70% more food, especially protein, will need to be produced by 2050 – a demand that traditional protein production systems cannot meet alone.

“This is another example of an important new industry being developed with assistance from the IPP supporting Queensland’s economic shift by establishing new regional industries and boosting regional supply chains.”

Michele Stansfield, co-founder and CEO of Cauldron, said, “We are honoured to be receiving support from the Queensland Government to develop our first industrial-scale operations in Mackay.

“This funding enables us to scale our innovative technology as a major milestone in our journey to redefine the scope of biomanufacturing. We look forward to developing the critical infrastructure to produce essential bioproducts more efficiently and sustainably to meet growing demand.”

The development scheme for the Mackay State Development Area (SDA) has also been approved, helping to unlock land for new and emerging industrial development and supporting the creation of more jobs.

The SDA sets aside 907 hectares of land adjacent to the Racecourse Mill and at Rosella to support value adding industries to the existing sugar cane production.

The development scheme will support the Mackay Whitsunday region to become Queensland’s home of an emerging biofutures sector dedicated to the development and manufacturing of innovative products from sustainable resources.

Labor candidate for Mackay, Belinda Hassan added that, “Queensland is leading the nation in the biofutures sector, so it’s tremendous to have Mackay at the core of this drive to unlock future industry development opportunities.”

The Labor Government also supports the Australian Sugar Milling Council (ASMC), Tully Sugar, and Wilmar Sugar through the Queensland Bioenergy Fund.

The ASMC, Tully Sugar and Wilmar Sugar are the first three recipients from the fund.

The ASMC will receive $330,000 for studies that will advance the sugar industry’s understanding of the commercial viability of liberalising feedstock and investing in greater cogeneration capacity.

Tully Sugar Limited will receive $175,000 for studies towards developing best practice cogeneration efficiency and assessing potential future investment to optimise network cogeneration capacity.

Wilmar Sugar will receive $700,000 for studies to increase cogeneration capacity of bioenergy and reduce electricity imports and coal consumption.

Assistant Minister for State Development and Infrastructure and Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert said that, “Our communities in regional Queensland, including Mackay, know this program is creating high value jobs and bringing new skills and capabilities to established and emerging industries.

“Biofutures is the sector of today, for tomorrow. It brings together old and new industry creating new products and opportunities around energy, waste and emissions.

“The Queensland Bioenergy Fund aligns with the Queensland New-Industry Development Strategy and the Biofutures 10-Year Roadmap and Action Plan to decarbonise by capitalising on the use of waste and other by-products of traditional industry to support demand for renewable energy.

“Bioenergy is an emerging industry and can only change on the scale needed to support decarbonisation and meet domestic demand with government intervention and proactive industry partners.”

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Hi Everyone,

It’s a kid’s life here in the Whitsundays!

Everywhere I turn there seems to be another event for our little darlings to enjoy – from the recent Kids Fishing Day to the upcoming Healthy Kids Expo – there is so much for families to enjoy, no wonder we are considered one of the most liveable places in Queensland for young families.

I remember when I first arrived in Airlie Beach as a 23-year-old backpacker on a Grey Hound Bus almost 20 years ago – it was certainly a different place!

Like many of us, I fell in love with the view of the turquoise ocean as I rounded the hill and saw our iconic panoramic vista for the first time.

I could live here! I thought.

Back then, however, Airlie Beach was a party-town and backpacker mecca – great for me in my younger years - but I remember thinking it was a little ‘wild’ to raise a family back then.

How wrong I was! – over the past 20 years the town (and probably myself!) has evolved into a diverse and thriving community that, in my opinion, is the perfect place to raise a family.

Our entire region encompasses a broad demographic of families, oldies, working professionals, backpackers and everyone in between.

I love how cosmopolitan our community feels, there are so many different nationalities choosing to settle here, so many different accents you hear on the streets – we truly are a melting pot of cultures!

But we all share one thing in common – a love of natural beauty and a holiday atmosphere -which is likely the reason most of us chose to create a life here.

As you flick through the pages of the paper this week, enjoy the diversity, enjoy the colour and the life of our community.

Rach

Quote of the Week: “Beauty can be bold or natural, but it always has to be in harmony with the individual” (Danny Sanz)

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In a powerful show of support, seven senior students from Whitsunday Anglican School came together in their final term to make a difference, cutting their hair for the Ponytail Project and supporting those affected by cancer through the Cancer Council.

Amelia Werner, Faith Rayner, Alex Otto, Amel Seethyah, Emerson Crowe, Olivia Whitehead, Hope Ware and Jazzie Sullivan all took part in this meaningful cause, where each student pledged to cut at least 20 centimetres from their hair. The donated hair will then be turned into wigs for individuals experiencing medically induced hair loss due to cancer treatment.

Throughout the year, these students were dedicated to growing their hair and their efforts resulted in a special event that saw them “rock the chop” in front of their peers. With support from their classmates, teachers and the wider Whitsunday Anglican School community, the group managed to raise over $6,800 for the Cancer Council.

Service to others is a significant part of Whitsunday Anglican School’s approach to education and this initiative allowed the senior students to not only give back, but also to learn valuable lessons in empathy, teamwork and community leadership. The school has participated in fundraising events for three consecutive years now, each focusing on raising awareness and support for important causes.

The students involved reflected on their experiences with pride.

Amelia Werner, who cut 27 centimetres from her hair, said, “It’s a really good feeling knowing it’s going to be made into wigs for patients affected by cancer.”

She added, “At first, it was a bit of a thrill, but it’s nice having shorter hair now, especially with summer coming.”

Jazzie Sullivan also shared her thoughts, saying, “I still feel a bit nervous, but I love it. It’s a real privilege to be part of this since people in my family have been affected by cancer.”

In previous years, the school has participated in “Mullets for Mental Health” and “Shave for a Cure,” making this year’s “Ponytail Project” another memorable milestone in the school’s charitable events.

Deputy Principal Jamie Novosel commended the students’ commitment, saying, “What a great initiative for a great cause for our students to be leading.

“Over the past three years, we’ve raised money through events where hair is shaped into mullets, completely shaved, or, as we have here today, cut for the Ponytail Project.

“It’s great to see our students take part in something that has such a positive impact.”

When asked about future plans, Mr. Novosel added, “I’m not sure what next year will entail—it could be mohawks or coloured hair…we’ll see what the senior class of 2025 comes up with.”

If you would like to donate, please visit www.ponytailproject.com.au/fundraisers/2024WASSeniorGirls

This fundraiser is only open for a limited time.

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$6,800 raised and counting: Whitsunday Anglican students “rocked the chop”, as they donated their locks to help provide wigs for those in need through the Cancer Council. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Mr Novosel, Deputy Principal (Pastoral and Head of Senior School) and Ms Holm, Dean of Senior School, with the team from Moldielox Barber and the courageous senior school students who Rocked The Chop as part of The Ponytail Project. Our biggest congratulations to:  Amelia Werner, Faith Rayner, Alex Otto, Amel Seethyah, Emerson Crowe, Olivia Whitehead, Hope Ware, Isabel M, and Jazzie Sullivan, who have been growing their hair and cut at least 20cm off for donation to The Cancer Council to make into wigs for those experiencing medically-induced hair loss.

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Technology advances in the medical sector, along with specialist training, are delivering a service to women in the Mackay region that previously required surgery.

Endometriosis in Queensland has a higher prevalence than the national average and is a condition where endometrial-like tissue is present outside the uterus.

It is associated with pelvic pain, infertility, and poor mental health, and often many women suffer for years without a diagnosis, as up until now it would require surgery.

With new advances in imaging and specialist training undertaken by the team at Mackay Base Hospital’s Medical Imaging Department, this condition can now be identified, diagnosed and treated sooner, and without the need for surgery to confirm its presence.

Having the ability to diagnose Endometriosis locally is proving a boom for the Mackay region, with women across the area now able to take advantage of the new imaging process without having to travel.

Allan Hellmuth is the Ultrasound Team Leader at the Mackay Base Hospital Medical Imaging Department and working alongside Senior Radiographer/Sonographer Amy Symonds, they are both excited about the future of imaging in a region that continues to grow at a fast pace.

“Endometriosis can be a debilitating condition, and it can affect women of all ages,” Allan said.

“In fact, we are seeing young women, even teenagers coming in for scans who get diagnosed. The symptoms are abdominal pain, and many women live with it for years.

“One of the main issues with endometriosis is a lack of knowledge, and the fact is that many women simply haven’t heard of it. I’ve seen some women suffer for up to seven years before getting diagnosed, and that’s where this technology, while in its infancy, is so good for patient outcomes.”

“That’s one of most exciting things about my job…we’re still finding new ways to do things and implementing new innovations to find things we couldn’t find before. Ultrasound technology can change so much in a short space of time,” Allan said.

Senior Radiographer/Sonographer Amy Symonds recently travelled to Sydney to undertake specialist training in the detection and diagnosis of endometriosis through imaging, and believes that this will be a great step forward for women’s health in the region.

“There is definitely more awareness about endometriosis, especially in the last couple of years,” Amy said.

“For patients, it takes years to get a diagnosis but now with these new techniques and technology, that is going to change. The training I did has put me on a whole different path, so much more in-depth. I’m looking at parts of the body I wouldn’t have looked closely at before, I’m looking now for things I wouldn’t have before, and the ripple effect of this is that there are going to be many surgical procedures that can be avoided. That’s going to affect thousands of women in Mackay.

“We are now doing scans at a level that Mackay has never seen, our knowledge and training has gone up to new levels. Ideally, we hope that one day we can set up an endometriosis clinic and that’s never been done before.”

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Mackay Base Hospital Medical Imaging Department Ultrasound Team Leader Allan Hellmuth and Senior Radiographer/Sonographer Amy Symonds

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Last week, two dogs embarked on an unexpected adventure. While enjoying their regular morning beach walk, Rebecca and Paul Douthwaite were accompanied by their three dogs: Nym, Bella, and Loki. Suddenly, Nym and Bella bolted into the nearby bush.
The worried dog parents quickly jumped into action, posting on facebook and approaching everyone on the beach. They approached a woman called Megan. The lovely lady still had Rebecca’s number saved to her phone from the last time Bella and previous dog Boyd ran off years before. Megan walked home immediately, got on her ATV and started searching for the missing pups and sharing the post with all her neighbours.
Alongside Megan, Rebecca also approached another guy on an ATV on the beach, who had seen the post on Facebook and had also began looking, and a family friend Karen Penhallurick, who also contacted a neighbour and spread the word. Before long, it felt like everyone in the community knew Bella and Nym were missing and were on the lookout.
Rebecca and her family were touched with how amazing the community is and how they all rallied behind them in efforts to find their dogs:
“I just couldn't believe how amazing and helpful they all were,” Rebecca enthused.
After finding their dogs, nearly 12 hours later, safe and sound Rebecca wanted to thank the Conway community for their efforts.
When she went to do this, she realised there was no community Facebook page, but took it upon herself to create a new page for Conway community members called ‘Conway Community Chat’.
“Thank you again for all your help! Bella and Nym are very sore, but home safe.”
A worrying beginning but a happy ending, welcome home Bella and Nym and hello to the new Conway Community Chat.

The two adventurers, Nym and Bella

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A growing coalition of community groups is raising concerns about the Government’s plans for privatisation of iconic parts of National Parks across Queensland.
These groups believe that developers are being offered exclusive leases and parks will be pricing everyday Queenslanders out of the natural experiences these parks were created to offer, for private profit.
Local community groups are worried that if Queensland’s National Parks continue to grant exclusive leases to commercial operators it will transform public parks into high-priced, privatised ventures that only a few will be able to afford.
At a recent public meeting in the Whitsundays, residents and business operators made it clear that they did not support these moves. While eco-tourism is touted as a benefit, many fear it has become a cover for high-end, profit-driven enterprises that cater only to wealthy tourists. Instead of genuine conservation-driven activities.
"National Parks were established for conservation and for all people to enjoy. We believe these plans are nothing less than developer land-grabs being carried out in a process that by no stretch of the imagination could be called open and transparent" says Suzette Pelt, President of Whitsundays Save Our Foreshore Inc, a local public land advocacy group.
Suzette believes that privatising National Parks undermines the very purpose of these protected areas under the Nature Conservation Act 1992.
They are calling on the Queensland Government to put a stop to this commercialisation and to protect the rights of all Queenslanders and future generations to access and enjoy the state’s stunning natural landscapes without financial barriers.
You can show your support for this issue by signing a petition entitled Save Our National Parks From Commercialisation available through parliament.qld.gov.au and sponsored by Michael Berkman MP.
So far, the cause has garnered 4,183 signatures on the petition.

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Community groups say no to privatising national parks

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Council wishes to inform the community that the old Quota Park playground, which is currently fenced off, will be decommissioned in the coming weeks.

Recent testing has shown that the softfall no longer meets current Australian safety standards.

The playground equipment is also showing signs of wear.

As a result, council has made the decision to remove this playground, located at the southern end of Binnington Esplanade, permanently.

The newer playground in Quota Park will remain available to use while these decommissioning works are underway.

Iluka Park, which is located at the northern end of Binnington Esplanade, is also available as an alternative playground.

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This year’s 2024 order of candidates on Election Ballot Paper was determined earlier this week on Tuesday 8 October at Returning Officer Whitsunday in Whitsunday Shopping Centre.

The Electoral Commission Queensland (ECQ) had the 5 candidates’ names and parties on separate pieces of paper, all the same size. Placed them into blank envelopes also the same size.

They were then placed in a Ballot Box, shaken, mixed up and drawn blindly.

The results:

   1. Bauke Hovinga - Labor
   2. Amanda Camm - LNP
   3. Elena Quirk - Greens
   4. Julie Hall - One Nation
   5. Peter Atchison - Family First

Julie Hall from One Nation party was in attendance on the day.

Election Day is Saturday 26 October and voting is compulsory.

Can’t vote on Election Day? Below are early voting centre locations.

Early voting centre locations:

Proserpine
Whitsunday Masonic Lodge, 29 Chapman Stree

Cannonvale
Whitsunday Shopping Centre, Shop 15, 226 Shute Harbour Road

14 – 25 October
Monday - Friday 8am-6pm

1 One Nation candidate for Whitsunday Julie Hall attended the Ballot Draw on Tuesday

Photo Credit: Daniel Heggie

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This week Cruise Whitsundays proudly marks its 20th anniversary, celebrating two decades of delivering world‐class experiences and pioneering innovation in the Whitsundays.
From the introduction of Australia’s first luxury underwater accommodation on The Great Barrier Reef, to timeless adventures on Camira Sailing Adventure, Great Barrier Reef Adventure, and Whitehaven Beach tours, Cruise Whitsundays has been at the forefront of showcasing the region’s unparalleled natural beauty.
The jewel in Cruise Whitsundays crown is Reefworld, the only permanently moored pontoon in the Whitsundays outer Great Barrier Reef. It provides an unforgettable way to explore the reef, with guests able to spend the night on the Reef sleep deck or enjoy the unique experience of Reefsuites, Australia's first underwater accommodation, where they can sleep surrounded by the beauty of the reef.
While these unique offerings have delighted guests, Cruise Whitsundays continues to honour its classic experiences that have stood the test of time. The Camira Sailing Adventure remains a much‐loved choice, offering a perfect blend of sailing, snorkelling, and beachside relaxation.
The Great Barrier Reef Adventure takes visitors on an unforgettable journey to explore one of the world’s most renowned natural treasures, while tours to Whitehaven Beach, famous for its untouched white sands and crystal‐clear waters, are an essential experience for any visitor to the Whitsundays. In addition to sharing these incredible places with the world, Cruise Whitsundays has played an active role in supporting the local Whitsundays community.
Over the past 20 years, the company has contributed to the region by sponsoring events, offering prize giveaways, and employing hundreds of locals. This long‐standing commitment has helped foster a strong connection between Cruise Whitsundays and the Whitsunday community.
General Manager Renee Branton‐Brown expressed her pride in the company's journey:
"Celebrating 20 years is a wonderful milestone. Over the years, we’ve been fortunate to share the Whitsundays with so many guests, helping them create memories that last a lifetime. Our focus has always been on sustainably showcasing the natural beauty of the region and supporting the community that makes it so special."
As Cruise Whitsundays looks to the future, the company remains committed to sharing the unique beauty of the Whitsundays with the world, creating experiences that shape lasting memories for guests.

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Sales and Marketing Manager Liza Muller and General Manager Renee Branton‐Brown cutting the cake. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
Some fantastic prizes were given out
Cruiser the turtle paid a visit

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The Mackay and Whitsunday regions are facing uncertainty as they await road infrastructure commitments from both major parties ahead of the Queensland Government election on October 26.

While the Labor Government announced it will invest $157M, funded by progressive coal royalties, for critical improvements to Isaac region roads to enhance safety and supply chain efficiency, Mackay and Whitsunday regions have received only one commitment for their key state-controlled road projects.

Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) Chief Executive Officer Ms Kylie Porter said the $157M commitment from the Labor Government for Isaac was welcomed, however noted the LNP was yet to extend a similar commitment.

The LNP announced a $20 Million proposal for upgrades to the Mackay Bucasia Road and Golf Links Road intersection, however neither major party have announced any funding for the Dawson or Capricornia sections of the Bruce Highway.

“The entire Greater Whitsunday region makes an oversized contribution to the Queensland economy, with a total economic output of $74.4B annually,” said Ms Porter.

“Like the Isaac region, both Mackay and Whitsunday have a long list of road projects that require investment now to not only improve safety and connectivity outcomes across the region, but also promote economic prosperity.

“We are calling on all candidates to clearly articulate their commitment to funding road projects across the entire Greater Whitsunday region in the next term of government.”

Ms Porter said that both Whitsunday and Mackay are key mining communities and also deserve their share of progressive coal royalties to fund key road and other infrastructure projects.

“The Whitsunday region is an important mining community in its own right, while Mackay is the key service sector location for the entire Bowen Basin region,” said Ms Porter.

“The Greater Whitsunday region deserves its fair share of election commitments and funding announcements in anticipation of a new government. It is vitally important to invest in the Greater Whitsunday region to protect Queensland’s long term economic prosperity.”

The Greater Possibilities for Greater Whitsunday and Queensland election priorities document outlines strategic initiatives and investment commitments needed for the Greater Whitsunday region.

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GW3 Chief Executive Officer Kylie Porter, Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins and Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson are advocating for commitment from state election parties to fix the shocking condition of the region’s Bruce Highway. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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At 5.50pm this Sunday 13 October the annual Miners Memorial Day will commence at Collinsville Workers Club but this year it is even more special to the Collinsville and Whitsunday community.

This year marks the 70th year since seven miners lost their lives in the state mine in Collinsville.

The disaster was a Carbon Dioxide CO2 gas outburst and happened at 5:50pm at the Collinsville State mine on 13 October 1954.

The gas outburst was later said to be 98% CO2 and the seven men died from asphyxiation.

The seven Collinsville men who died were Alex Parkinson, Peter Miller, Henry Petersen, Frederick Ernest Walker, James Reid Logan, Arthur Shrubsole and Herbert Ruff.

Two other men, Robert Munro and J. A. Baker were severely affected by the CO2 outburst and were taken to hospital to make a recovery.

The mining disaster has affected all miners and the broader Collinsville community for generations.

Even today, people who have since moved away from Collinsville often return specifically to be part of the Memorial Day.

President of the Memorial Committee Brett Murphy said for the first time this year they will also be honouring the two horses that passed in the mine during the disaster.

“This year we will be having for the first time a plaque for the two horses that died down there that day,” explained Brett.

“It was always about the men, but we've decided that the horses needed to be on the wall as well.”

The plaques will be unveiled by one of the horse handlers.

Brett also said that Memorial Day is always important to past and present miners, due to the closeness and relationships you develop in the mines.

“Underground workers form a family very quickly when they're working underground, and I believe that that's because of the danger, and you've got to look after each other,” said Brett.

“Basically, you really need to be looking after each other and be like family.

“And when someone from your family dies, and especially if it's seven people out of your family die on the one day, you can imagine how they felt.”

What: Miners Memorial Day
Where: Collinsville Workers Club
When: Sunday 13 October, 5:50pm start

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The community marched to pay their respects following the  Collinsville State mine disaster which claimed the lives of seven men on 13 October 1954

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Geoffrey Huegill, an Australian swimming legend and dual Olympian, boasts an incredible career with 72 international medals, including two Olympic medals and six world champion titles. Known for his dominance in the 50 metres butterfly, Geoff also held eight world records throughout his career.

Although originally from Mackay, Geoff now resides in Singapore but maintains strong ties to his hometown as he cherishes his time visiting his mother, friends, and family in the Mackay region.

Understanding the challenges faced by regional athletes, who rarely have access to world-class mentors, Geoff is passionate about inspiring the next generation of swimmers.

He recalls his own journey, beginning in Mackay, where he was raised with a strong work ethic and grew up swimming at local clubs.

“I grew up in Mackay, and it’s always special to come back and visit my mum and reconnect with the community… hopefully this is the start of many trips back,” Geoff said.

“Swimming is a connector and it's really helped me in my life.

“I'm still in the pool in some way, shape or form every single day and I'm very blessed to have that opportunity, and for me, it all started in Mackay.”

During his visit to the region, Geoff will conduct a series of swimming clinics tailored for athletes of all skill levels. These sessions will cater to a wide range of participants, from club and regional swimmers to state and national competitors, as well as those involved in surf sports and open water swimming.

• Club and regional swimmers specifically for Butterfly, Sprint, Speed and Skills on Sunday 13 October at 08:30-11:00 at Pat Wright Swim School

• State and national swimmers specifically for Butterfly, Sprint, Speed and Skills on Sunday 13 October at 11:30-14:00 at Pat Wright Swim School

• T.O.M.S (Triathlete, Open Water, Masters Swimmers) for competitors wanting to fine tune ALL strokes, dives and turns on Friday 11 October at 17:00-19:30 at Mackay Memorial Pool

• Surf Swimmers especially for surf sports athletes. This pool-based session will focus on building skills and endurance necessary for the unique, dynamic conditions faced in the surf on Wednesday 16 October at 16:00-18:30 at Mackay Memorial Pool

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Photo source: Australian Olympic Team (Facebook)

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