Headaches are a common complaint, affecting millions of people worldwide. From tension headaches to migraines, the causes can vary, and so can the solutions. While diet and dehydration often get the blame, some less obvious culprits might be affecting you, particularly stress and poor posture. In this column, we’ll explore how what you eat—or don’t drink—could be contributing to your headaches and how chiropractic care can help alleviate the symptoms associated with these triggers.

The Role of Diet in Headaches
You’ve probably heard that skipping meals can cause headaches, but even your regular eating habits might be the hidden source of your pain. Certain foods and additives are known to trigger headaches in sensitive individuals. Processed foods, rich in preservatives like nitrates and MSG, can wreak havoc on your head. Similarly, artificial sweeteners, especially aspartame, can cause headaches in some people. Caffeine, while offering temporary relief for some, can also lead to withdrawal headaches if consumed in excess.
On the flip side, deficiencies in key nutrients could also be playing a role. A lack of magnesium, for instance, is linked to more frequent and intense headaches, especially migraines. Ensuring you have a balanced diet rich in whole foods, leafy greens, and nuts can make a significant difference.

Dehydration: The Silent Cause
Dehydration is another sneaky contributor to headaches. Many of us are chronically dehydrated without realising it. Water is essential for maintaining normal body functions, and even slight dehydration can lead to a headache. When you're dehydrated, your body loses electrolytes, which can cause the blood vessels in your brain to tighten, triggering discomfort.
Regular water intake throughout the day can help stave off dehydration-related headaches. If you often feel sluggish or develop headaches in the afternoon, it could be your body’s way of signalling that it needs more hydration.

Chiropractic Care and Headache Relief
While diet and hydration play critical roles, chiropractic care can also help in alleviating the pain associated with headaches. Tension headaches, often caused by muscle tightness in the neck and shoulders, can be eased with targeted spinal adjustments. These adjustments can relieve pressure and improve posture, reducing tension that might lead to headaches.

Chiropractic care can also promote better blood flow and reduce nerve irritation, both of which are factors that contribute to headache symptoms. By realigning the spine, chiropractors can help alleviate some of the discomfort caused by stress, tension, and misalignment—giving your body a better chance to heal naturally.

Combined with good hydration and a balanced diet, it’s possible to keep headaches at bay and improve your overall quality of life.

At Move It Chiropractic, we’re here to help you on that journey—guiding you toward a healthier lifestyle.

Dr Suzanne Kippen (Chiropractor)
Move It Chiropractic

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Ten silkie roosters and hens were recently abandoned in bushland without food or water, leaving them in a life-threatening situation. Local animal rescuer Robin Morgan responded quickly, finding the birds severely dehydrated.

The silkies instantly flocked to the water bowl, where a spokesperson from Mackay Pet Rescue Inc said they just “drank and drank”, marking a clear sign of severe neglect.

A call for help saw a team of four volunteers embark on a mission to recover the abandoned birds. By afternoon, seven were successfully captured, while three remained elusive. Undeterred, Robin returned to the area that evening, armed with a flashlight, and discovered two silkies roosting in a tree within reach. The two were promptly reunited with the rest of the flock, leaving just one rooster left to rescue.

The rescued birds are now under the care of Ros, where they are being kept safe until more suitable accommodations can be arranged. Once the final rooster is secured, all of the birds will be relocated to a permanent home in a rural area.

While the circumstances of their abandonment were distressing, swift rescue efforts have ensured these vulnerable animals are now out of danger and on their way to a secure future.

“It is always a good feeling when you save an animal in need,” commented a Mackay Pet Rescue Inc spokesperson.

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10 silkie roosters and hens were recently rescued after local rescuers found them abandoned in the bush. They are now in safe and sound, in care and will be relocated to a new forever home. Photo source: Mackay Pet Rescue Inc (Facebook)

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By Hannah McNamara

Sworn into the Queensland Police on July 2, 1948, Constable First Class Roy Doyle began his career in Cairns before being transferred to Mackay in 1952. His dedication to the community and commitment to his duties were evident throughout his career, but it was on March 30, 1956, during one of the region’s most devastating floods, that he demonstrated the true weight of the badge he wore.

It was on a gruelling Friday afternoon, where heavy rains had caused the Pioneer River to rise dangerously, flooding the Mackay area. Doyle, along with other officers, worked tirelessly to maintain order and ensure the safety of the community. As the river's waters peaked and began to recede, the situation appeared to be under control. However, the unexpected occurred when a man under the influence of alcohol, emerged into the floodwaters, attempting to swim across the raging river. Despite the dangers, Constable Doyle, alongside his colleagues, jumped in to save him.

In the chaos, Doyle’s decision to assist another officer in rescuing the man tragically cost him his life. Diving into the roaring waters of the Pioneer River, Doyle then struck his head on a submerged block of concrete. The impact left him significantly injured and despite efforts to save him, he passed away on April 1, 1956.

His sacrifice was recognised when he became the first Queensland police officer to be awarded the Queen’s Medal for Gallantry.

Just last week, on the 27th of September, former and current police officers as well as family members gathered at the Mount Basset cemetery to unveil Doyle’s refurbished headstone.

What was once a faded tile of memorabilia, has now been refined into a restored place of remembrance, where work colleagues, friends and family members can pay their respects to a man of bravery and might.

In attendance was Doyle’s two daughters Diane Jeff’s and Judith McGrath, who greatly appreciated the ceremony and unveiling of his new headstone.

“Diane and I are so proud of our father,” Judith said.

“Even though it’s been 68 years, we still have the feelings…we still miss him terribly and we wish he’d been here with us.”

The sisters were the first to unveil the restored plaque, which they then laid a reef in loving memory of their Father.

Secretary for the Mackay and Whitsunday Branch of Retired Police, Andre Wijtenburg said, “I ask each of you to remember all police officers who have given their lives in execution of their duty, and the families that they have left behind.”

He emphasised the importance of honouring the officers who sacrificed their life, not just on Police Remembrance Day, but for years to come, setting Constable First Class Roy Doyle as a remarkable example of the selfless spirit that gave his life to save others.

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Constable Roy Doyle, 1948 Image No. PM1791 Courtesy of the Queensland Police Museum

Former work collegues, friends and family members of Constable Roy Doyle gathered at the Mount Bassett Cemetery to honour the enduring legacy that he left behind, even 68 years later.
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Mr Doyle’s two daughters Diane Jeff’s and Judith McGrath. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Queensland’s Premier Steven Miles, Deputy Premier Cameron Dick, and local Labor candidates Belinda Hassan (Mackay), Bauke Hovinga (Whitsunday) and Susan Teder (Mirani) gathered with supporters at the Souths Suburban Bowls Club last Tuesday to discuss Labor's future plans.

The room was a sea of bright red as locals enthusiastically cheered for Premier Steven Miles and Deputy Premier Cameron Dick, who promised cost-of-living relief, improved housing, energy bill reductions and greater economic fairness.

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Premier of Queensland Steven Miles
Deputy Premier of Queensland Cameron Dick
Candidate for Mackay Belinda Hassan
Candidate for Whitsunday Bauke Hovinga
Candidate for Mirani Susan Teder. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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From addressing common electoral issues to confronting topics often deemed "controversial" by critics, Pauline Hanson’s One Nation party continues to be a vocal advocate for what it sees as the pressing concerns of everyday Australians. The party has made a name for itself by tackling issues that many believe are overlooked by the major political parties, positioning itself as a defender of traditional values and fair working class.

Last Saturday, One Nation candidate for Whitsunday and former Whitsunday Mayor, Julie Hall, welcomed Pauline Hanson to Mackay for a dinner event with local supporters at the Blacks Beach Tavern. The evening offered an opportunity to discuss pressing national matters and the party’s vision for the future.

The room was filled with applause as Hanson and Hall touched on a range of topics.

Whether it's championing stricter immigration policies, supporting pro-life initiatives, or advocating for greater investment in local industries like farming and mining, the party seeks to address what it sees as the key issues impacting the lives of Australians in rural and regional communities.

“I will continue my journey in representing the people and giving the people a say, and that’s what One Nation stands for…because we need change,” said Julie.

Pauline Hanson, Senator for Queensland, was pleased to be in Mackay and expressed her confidence in Hall, commending her dedication to the region.

“Julie is working tirelessly to bring strong representation to its people.

“I know she will be a powerful voice for this important part of Queensland.

“I have conservative values… I believe in a hard days work for a fair days pay and I also believe in reaping the rewards of hard work like the farming sector and our defence forces… these are things that are close to my heart.

“One Nation is standing up for the people who’ve been left behind and now is the time to fight for our future.”

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Pauline Hanson highlights One Nation’s dedication to improving local industries, as Julie Hall pledges to bring a powerful voice to Mackay and the Whitsundays. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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The Proserpine Entertainment Centre hosted the elegant and colourful 2024 Mayor’s Charity Ball over the weekend.

Over 200 people attended the evening, and it was a night of delicious food, generous fundraising and merriment.

Mayor Ry Collins selected two charities this year, BMA CQ Rescue and Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN), two charities that do important life-saving work in our region.

Over $60,000 was raised for these great charities through ticket sales, raffles, and an auction.

It was a spectacular event.

Blair Vea Vea, Isaac Regional Council Mayor Kelly Vea Vea, Melanie Collins, Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins, Annette Williamson, and Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson, Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Glitter, Sparkles & Great Times
At The Mayor’s Charity Ball

Mayor Ry Collins’ first Mayor’s Charity Ball was a high-class evening, with a touch of sparkle.

This year the event had two options, the Gala Experience, complete with a three-course meal and charity auction.

This was followed with the After Dark Experience which started at 8pm and guests could dance the night away in front of the amazing 1RAR band and DJ Cue.

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Deputy Mayor and Councillor Michelle Wright, Councillor Gary Simpson, Councillor Clay Bauman, Mayor of the Isaac Kelly Vea Vea, Mayor of the Whitsundays Ry Collins, Melanie Collins, Mayor of Mackay Greg Williamson, Councillor Jan Clifford and Councillor John Collins.
Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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The Collinsville Men’s Shed could get an upgrade if plans to enhance its facilities with a proposed $400,000 extension go ahead.
Under the leadership of Club President Philip Higham, the shed has served as a vital gathering place for local residents since its inception eight years ago.
Higham, who has been president for five years, emphasises the shed's role as a sanctuary where members can engage in meaningful projects, vent their frustrations, and foster camaraderie.
The shed is known for its community initiatives, including timber projects for local schools, fundraising raffles, and casual gatherings. However, as demand for its services grows, so does the need for more space.
Higham is working with Member for Burdekin Dale Last to install a larger shed, which will allow for better timber storage and the installation of an overhead dust extraction system.
“We currently have nowhere to build and store larger projects safely,” Higham explains.
The Men’s Shed has been fortunate to receive substantial support from the mines and the council, which owns the building. With upgrades to electrical systems and machinery, the shed has transformed from a small room into a well-equipped workshop. Higham acknowledges that while running the shed takes organisation and dedication, the impact it has on members is immeasurable.
“It's absolutely critical,” he states. “This space provides mental health benefits as members connect with like-minded individuals.”
Currently operating on Tuesdays and Saturdays with around 20 members, the shed plans to expand its hours to include Thursdays once the new extension is completed.
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The Collinsville Men’s Shed. Photo supplied

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Hi Everyone,

Over the weekend I had the honour of listening to Matt Stokes from Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN) speak to an audience of over 200 people at the Mayor’s Charity Ball.

He was on stage to thank the Mayor and attendees for donating half of the proceeds of the ball to WSPN, but his message was so much bigger than that.

The suicide rates in Australia are heartbreaking to witness and one so recently here in our own community was undoubtedly on the minds of many as they listened to Matt speak on Saturday night.

To think an individual would feel so lost and without hope that they choose to take their own life is so shattering and so difficult for many to comprehend.

Despite suicide being so often misunderstood the incredible team at WSPN are doing such amazing work to change this stigma, to let people know that they are not alone, it’s ok to say you are struggling, everyone finds life hard sometimes.

Having such a public platform at the Mayor’s Ball opened the conversation even further and Matt’s impassioned speech really resonated with me, and I expect many others in the room.

He encouraged us all to connect, for when we connect and ask ‘are you ok?’ or take the time to check-in with others, look for signs that someone is struggling – we may just help save a life.

Suicide is not something that is happening behind closed doors, it is happening to people we all know right here in our community and, while sadly it can sometimes be too late, there is still so much hope.

If you are struggling right now reach out, talk to a friend.

Or perhaps attend a free WSPN sponsored Breathing Class – held weekly in Bowen and Cannonvale these classes are incredible – I know this from personal experience.

Rach

Quote of the Week “There’s not an expiration date on needing help, or needing people. You don’t get to a certain age and it stops.” - Hanya Yanagihara, A Little Life

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Meet Darcy, a kind-hearted gentleman who generously donates his homegrown pumpkins to the Proserpine Community Centre for those in need.
In today’s world, fresh and healthy food can be a luxury, and sometimes, just one pumpkin can make a huge difference in someone’s day.
Ingrid Ruck, coordinator of Proserpine community centre commented on how amazing Darcy had been for the centre:
“He is well respected within our community, and I think he has been overwhelmed with the response.”
Many community members rallied together on the Facebook post, which was posted by the centre to thank Darcy for his generosity.
The Proserpine community centre’s free food trolley is there for community members to enjoy and they encourage everyone to stop by and say hello, for a free item or for one of their amazing events, such as the sausage sizzle, Latin dancing and more.
A huge shout-out of gratitude to Darcy for providing the seasonal treats to the community centre. if you could use a pumpkin or some other goodies, the Community Centre encourages anyone to stop by anytime Monday to Friday, between 9am and 3pm.

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Darcy generously donating his homegrown pumpkins, Photo supplied

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The search for missing man, Joel Pringle, sadly came to an end when his body was discovered last week.

The 40-year-old man was last seen on Monday 19 August at 4.30pm at the Lagoon in Airlie Beach and, when he did not return home, was soon reported missing.

A massive search ensued with emergency service personnel and dozens of regular people all involved in a desperate effort to bring him home alive.

Teams of people scoured the areas he was known to frequent by land and by air, but there was no sign of Joel for almost three weeks.

His last known location was at 6am near Conway Range, the day following his disappearance.

Despite the intensive search to find him alive, Joel Pringle has tragically been found deceased and his death is believed to be non-suspicious.

Joel’s partner Eve Houghton shared the devastating news via her ‘Find Joel Pringle’ Facebook group.

“It is with deep sadness that we share the news that Joel was found late yesterday evening. Unfortunately, he has passed,” the post said.

“We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has come together in the search for Joel – family, friends, and the many people who travelled from far and wide to help.

“We are incredibly thankful to the police, water police, SES, and local businesses that displayed flyers and posters.

“To everyone who offered their support and kindness - your love and care will forever be treasured by Joel’s family and close friends.

If this article has been a trigger for you, please reach out to LifeLine on 131144. Help is available and this service is open 24 hours a day. Locally, you can call Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network if you are worried about yourself or someone you are close to: 4945 2858.

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Congratulations to Steve Pilcher from Pilcher’s Mitre 10 Bowen who won the Mackay and Whitsunday Life 2024 NRL Footy Competition.

It was an extremely close contest, with Steve winning by just one point with 132 points and Bruce Spannagle from the Metropole Hotel in Proserpine and Stacey Gerhart from Leader Group in joint second place with 131 points each.

Steve said he has been watching football on and off his whole life and his knowledge of football plus checking weekly stats helped him reach the win.

Additionally, since entering the competition Steve has tried to watch as many matches as possible to understand the teams and see how they were performing.

Since winning Steve said he has already been bragging to his friends that are also in the competition.

Steve considers himself a Bronco’s fan but being in North Queensland he has started to root for the Cowboys too and watches them play at least two times a year in Townsville.

Although the competition is over, Steve is already thinking about the final.

“I think it's going to be a Storm vs Panthers final,” Steve said.

“I think the Panthers will just tip them, their consistency and their structure has been very impressive so far this year.”

For winning the competition Steve receives Two Grand Final Tickets, $1000 cash, a one-page profile in Core Life Magazine (valued at $1895), and a full-page advert in Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper.

Well deserved, congratulations – let’s see if you can back it up next year!

Steve Pilcher winner of our 2024 Footy Tipping Competition. Photo supplied

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4-year-old Theo Large is described as an easy-going and fun-loving kid, who always has a bright smile on his face. Sadly, little Theo’s life changed on the 14th August 2024, when he was diagnosed with Childhood Leukaemia.
Theo was taken to the Proserpine Hospital on 14 August, as it was clear to his parents something wasn't quite right. He was taken by ambulance to Mackay hospital that evening. Theo was then flown to Brisbane by Life Flight on the 15th of August and his treatment began at the Queensland Children’s Hospital in Brisbane on 17th August.
The news has been devastating for Theo’s family. As the middle child of three, Theo's family has been temporarily divided, with Theo and his parents staying in Brisbane while his siblings are with their grandparents in Proserpine.
With the need for the community to rally around them for support, the family, alongside The Hangar Cafe and Bar have organised a community raffle to help them raise much needed funds, to help mitigate the mounting bills for ongoing treatments and travel and living expenses the family are currently enduring.  
Every contribution counts. Whether you make a small donation or purchase a $20 raffle ticket online or from The Hangar Cafe and Bar, you can truly make a difference in this little boy's life. Plus, you’ll have the chance to win amazing prizes, from an acrobatic flight to a thrilling skydive over the stunning Whitsundays.
Family friend and manager at The Hangar Cafe and Bar, Dan Shoebridge, stated that the money raised from the raffle will help relieve the pressure for the family.
“It will help give some stability and normality to them, while their life's been turned upside down,” he shared.
Despite the devastating news, lovely Theo still has a smile on his face, and seems to be remaining positive.
Dan commented on how amazing the Whitsundays community has been in the midst of such turmoil, and in just 24 hours of the fundraiser being live, the community had helped raise over $9000.
“It's so overwhelming, to see the amount of support that everyone rallies together and brings, especially in the trying, tough times we're all experiencing at the moment with financial hardship, it's amazing to see people giving.”
Theo still has a long journey ahead, and with the raffle continuing on until October, you still have plenty of time to enter.
“Any funds that come through are extremely appreciated on behalf of the family.”
Help support Theo’s journey and his family by donating anything you can through this extremely difficult period.
The Whitsundays are thinking of you Theo.
Head to The Hangar Cafe and Bar Facebook page to donate or call the cafe to find out more: 0487 006 929

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Four-year-old Theo battling through with a smile
Help raise funds for Theo and his family

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Equipped with all-new, state-of-the-art facilities, the brand-new Airlie Beach Fire Station has opened its doors and is ready to serve its community members.
The stunning new space has replaced the older and smaller station that was located in Jubilee Pocket, near PCYC.
With Airlie Beach’s continued population growth, the decision to upgrade and expand the local fire station was in order to better help serve the community, with the old station having been in operation for the past 45 years.
Fourth class firefighter, Jay Steele mentioned how the new station offers modern facilities and a dedicated training room for firefighters.
He also stated that the new location on MacArthur Drive in Cannonvale enables improved response times.
It allows for better coverage of areas like the highway and maintains service to existing areas.
Firefighter Blair Mitchell also spoke about the new facilities and their improvement on response times:
“It means much better response times, we are in the centre of the community now, rather than all the way out in Jubilee Pocket.”
Station Officer, Kevin Tomas, expressed his excitement about the new facilities and how they will improve the firefighters' operations:
“It allows us to respond a bit more towards the highway as well, so we can reach a lot more jobs.”
The move will enable firies to get to the residential areas quicker and more efficiently, in turn, better serving the Airlie Beach community.
Senior fire fighter Blake Broadwood explained how the brand new large and open space, allows for more expansion opportunities within the station itself including it becoming a 24/7 fire station.
“It is capable of harbouring a 24/7 fire station,” he shared.
An official opening ceremony was held last Thursday, and in attendance was firefighters and their families alongside special guests, Amanda Camm MP and Councillor Gary Simpson, although the official operations began on Monday 16 September.
The fire station is also looking for any new potential Auxiliary Firefighters that can help assist at the station. At present the station has 11 Auxiliary firefighters and maximum capacity is 20.
If you are looking at getting in the red truck and being Airlie Beach’s newest firefighter, make sure to enquire at the brand-new station which is actively hiring, or head on down to take a sneak peak of the shiny new facilities in Cannonvale.

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Firies showing off their brand-new station
Blair Mitchell, Jay Steele, Blake Broadwood and Kevin Tomas with the fire truck.
Amanda Camm MP visiting the new facility.

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Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP is calling on Whitsunday residents frustrated with the lack of decent boating infrastructure in our region to have their say and register their support for boat ramp upgrades.

“We have the highest boat ownership per capita in the state and our boating infrastructure is not sufficient to meet demand,” Ms Camm stated.

“And the infrastructure we do have is not only under par but in some cases dangerous.

“Shute Harbour boat ramp is a prime example of a government refusing to undertake proper community consultation on design and leaving our community with an unsafe ramp, not fit for purpose”.

The 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” and becomes submerged at hightide, with many boaties calling it dangerous and not fit for use.

Ms Camm is calling for safer ramps with more all-tide access, more trailable carparks, better lighting and security and for more local consultation on design and planning.

“It’s time the government got serious about our infrastructure. Instead of just patchwork upgrades, it’s time to look at the big picture and look at new infrastructure, like at Shute Bay,” Ms Camm stated.

“For the last four years I have been standing up for our local boaties, but this government has refused to listen.  

“It’s time for locals to have their say on what boating infrastructure improvements they want in our region and call on this government to make a commitment ahead of the election in October”.

Ms Camm invited the community to go to www.betterboatramps.com.au to register their support.

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Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP fights for local boaties
The Shute Harbour boat ramp has been labelled an “engineering disgrace”

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Last week in this newspaper we incorrectly stated that Julie Hall ran against Amanda Camm in the last state election.

Please note, this information was incorrect.

Julie Hall in fact ran for the One Nation Party in the Federal election.

We apologise to Ms Hall and look forward to featuring more about her current election bid as a candidate for the role of Member of the Whitsundays in the upcoming state election due to be held on October 26th.

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