Whitsunday Regional Council offers a range of Community Assistance Grants to support local volunteer-based organisations, including sport and recreation clubs, facility managers, and other community groups. These grants recognise the vital role these groups play in our community and provide targeted financial support. Additionally, there’s special funding for Junior Elite Athletes under 18, who represent North Queensland, Queensland, or Australia in official events. This support helps cover participation costs and acknowledges our young athletes' dedication and achievements. If you're part of a local group or a young athlete, consider applying to help further your goals!

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In our ‘Out And About’ segment with Tourism Whitsundays, we showcase the team and share how connected they are with local tourism. 
In this feature Jade Richardson, from Tourism Whitsundays invites you along with her as she takes trips around our beautiful region and shares her experiences with you.
In Tourism Whitsundays Out and About segment this week, Jade enjoyed visiting Oh Deere Farm Stay in Calen.

This farm offers camping and experience-based activities focused on the Cane industry.

Visitors can learn about the industry in-depth, including sugar cane preparation, growth, and harvesting. But what makes Oh Deere Farm Stay remarkable is its owner, Karinda Anderson.

Her story of resilience and determination is truly inspiring and reminds us to chase our dreams, cherish every moment, and find strength in adversity.

The farm also boasts a John Deere Collective Museum, a cane maze, a love swing with a breathtaking view of the outback scenery, as well as an awesome little gift shop.

Overall, Oh Deere Farm Stay offers a unique and educational experience for all, where you can learn about the cane industry and be inspired by Karinda's story while appreciating life's precious moments.

Jade was thrilled to visit and highly recommends the experience to anyone looking for an experience that inspires and educates. 
 
Contributed with thanks to Jade Richardson, Membership Coordinator Tourism Whitsundays

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Full name : Wuisan Chandra
Position : Executive chef

Every fine restaurant deserved a refined chef at the helm, someone to guide the way, inspire the menu and select dishes that will transform a delicious meal into an experience you will remember.

Indonesian Chef, Wuisan Chandra, understands this first hand, having started his own culinary journey in 2006 in Australia.

He worked in Sydney for a few different restaurants over a period of four years.

But home was calling for Wuisan and he decided to go back to Borneo, Indonesia.

Using the skills he developed in Sydney he opened a restaurant in his home country.

“I was privileged to open a restaurant with my friend in 2010, it was a beautiful menu comprising of modern Japanese dishes,” he said.

After working in his own restaurant for some time he was offered a position as Executive chef with Arma Resort, Chapung Sebali resort in Ubud, and a beach club in Jimbaram Bali.

During his time at the resorts Wuisan developed his skills as a chef, but the urge to open his own restaurant was too strong, and in 2019 he took the leap and opened his own restaurant in Seminyak.

His hard work and delicious food did not go unnoticed, and it wasn’t long until one of the biggest hospitality companies in Australia offered him a head chef position at a rooftop bar.

Drawn to new challenges and wanting to express himself as a chef by cooking Indonesian dishes, Wuisan decided to bring his career to the Whitsundays.

Recently hired as Executive Chef at Whisper Restaurant and Gin Bar, Wuisan said he wants to add his personality to the new and exciting menu.

“I love to cook Asian food with a western twist,” explained Wuisan,

“My aim is to stamp my personality on the Whisper lunch and dinner menu, to give our customers a dining experience they won’t forget, highlighting my delicious unique signature dishes.”

Wuisan is loving his new life in the Whitsundays and said “Starting my day looking at the beautiful views from the Mirage Resort doesn’t get boring and breathing the fresh Whitsunday air.”

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Wuisan Chandra, Photo supplied

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At the Proserpine Entertainment Centre enjoy the fun activities whilst honouring what Queensland has to offer.

Enjoy a range of activities, including. Live music, free craft workshops, exciting games, delicious food vans, creative face painting, thrilling wildlife encounters and heaps more.

There's so much more in store for you to discover and enjoy.

This spectacular event is brought to you by the Whitsunday Regional Council and proudly sponsored by the Queensland Government.

Don't miss out on this fantastic afternoon full of celebration for our beautiful state!

Queensland Day is an important day to celebrate the state and recognise the state’s culture and heritage.

It is an opportunity to reflect on what Queensland means to you and what makes you proud to be a Queenslander, whether that be the people, place, opportunities or lifestyle.

WHAT: Queensland Day
WHERE: Proserpine Entertainment Centre
WHEN: Sunday 2 June at 10am

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The Sportspark saw an impressive display of football over the weekend, with Whitsunday United netting a total of 24 goals across senior matches, conceding only 2. Unfortunately, the youth teams did not fare as well.
Senior Men’s Division
The Divisional men faced the Wanderers in Mackay on Friday night. The Division One team fell just short in a closely contested game, with a goal from Caleb not enough to avoid their first loss of the season. However, the Division Two Men claimed their third victory of the season, with goals from Ali and Tate securing a win and moving up the ladder.
Youth Teams’ Challenges
The U13 Division had a bye, but the FQPL team faced a tough match against the Rangers. After an early equalizer from Sam, WUFC struggled against the Rangers' relentless attack, eventually losing 8-1. The U15 FQPL also had a challenging game against Lions in Mackay, suffering an 11-1 defeat despite their effort.
Afternoon Success at Home
The FQPL U23 Women started strong against the Wanderers, showing excellent communication and play from the kick off. Nicole's standout performance at left back, combined with solid midfield support and relentless forward pressure, led to a 5-0 victory. Goals were scored by Imo, Franny, Mabel (twice), and Keely.
The Premier Women also dominated their game against the Wanderers. With early pressure from Willow and Steph, supported by Dom and Emily in midfield, Dom opened the scoring, followed by Steph. Jess H. and Monique’s wing runs kept the pressure on, and Willow added a third just before halftime. The second half saw Jess W. orchestrating play, with Dom and Steph each scoring again and Monique sealing a 6-0 win.
Men’s FQPL U23 and Men’s Premier
The Men’s FQPL U23 team had a tough match against the Lions but broke through in the first half with a trademark long-range shot from Smithy. Goals in the second half from Lewis Elder, Lincoln Fricker, and Andres Vega secured a 4-0 victory.
The Men’s Premiers, seeking revenge against the Lions, showcased their prowess from the start. They went into halftime with a commanding 6-0 lead thanks to two early goals. Despite a stronger second-half showing from the Lions, Whitsunday wrapped up the game with a 9-2 victory. Jake Kenna scored five goals, Simon Rohan-Jones added a hat trick, and Alan O'Donnell rounded off the score with a bullet header. This victory solidified their second place in the league, keeping them within striking distance of the top spot.
Summary
The weekend at Sportspark was a mixed bag for Whitsunday United. While the senior teams delivered dominant performances, the youth teams faced significant challenges. The club looks forward to building on these results as the season progresses, with the senior teams aiming to maintain their strong form and the youth teams working to bounce back from their tough matches. The community remains hopeful and supportive as Whitsunday United continues to compete with determination and skill.

Contributed with thanks to Allan Milostic.

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Whether you’re looking to change career paths, want to work fewer hours and have more flexibility as you wind down, or want to get back amongst the action in retirement, the tourism and hospitality industry could be the perfect option for you.
With roles ranging from tour guides, drivers and receptionists to caravan park maintenance, hotel housekeeping and restaurant servers, there is something for everyone.
At the Mature Australians Career Seminar which is due to take place at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre today, you will hear from industry experts, industry employers and employees on the benefits of working in the tourism industry.
It is an opportunity to learn the new conditions that allow you to work without impacting your pension and for the opportunity to network with tourism businesses looking to employ mature-aged Australians.
The tourism industry offers some of the country’s most flexible and social working conditions, and mature-aged workers have been identified as a target group for new employees.
Register your spot today here.

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WHAT: Mature Australians Tourism Career Seminar  
WHEN: Friday 31 May 2024, 9am – 12 noon
WHERE: The Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 16 Main Street, Proserpine

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Roze is a rising star from The Whitsundays, and she has graced one of the most iconic billboards in the world; Time Square in New York.

This is the second time this year she has been featured on the dazzling display for the Met Gala Fashion production by Belle Le Chic.

The talented Holley Webb Creative brilliantly executed the photographs, capturing the essence of her poise and elegance.

Roze has quickly become a name to watch in the modelling industry, proving that dreams can come true with hard work and dedication.

Roze's parents, who are filled with an indescribable sense of joy and pride, shared their excitement.

"To see Roze, our daughter, representing our town on such a grand scale is a feeling that words cannot capture,” said her mother.

“Roze has set her sights on big goals, and we believe she has the potential to achieve great things. This is just the beginning of her journey."

The Met Gala, renowned for its extravagant fashion and star-studded guest list, is a global event that brings together the world's top designers, models, and celebrities.

To be featured in its promotions, particularly in a location as prominent as Times Square, is a testament to the high regard Roze holds in the fashion community and the magnitude of her success. 

Let's keep our eyes peeled for this local gem as she continues illuminating the world's stage with grace and charm.

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Roze on a billboard in Times Square, New York.

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By Amanda Wright

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The RACQ CQ Rescue Emergency Services Day soared to new heights as families from Mackay and beyond flocked to the event, held on Sunday, May 19 at Harrup Park.
With the rotor blades spinning and excitement buzzing, the day was a true lifeline of support for our rescue helicopter service. Although the final fundraising figures are still up in the air, initial estimates suggest the event lifted around $12,000 – enough to keep our region’s chopper flying for a full hour. It's a clear reminder of the importance of community backing for our aerial heroes in times of need.
Amidst the festivities, the helicopter needed to make an early departure on a medical transfer mission from Bowen to Mackay, providing a real-time demonstration of its vital role in our region's emergency response.

The opportunity to sit in the RACQ CQ Rescue helicopter was a highlight of the Emergency Services Day before the chopper was tasked to a medical transfer from Bowen. Photo credit: Coffee + Hops

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Emergency Services Day A Sky-High Success

RACQ CQ Rescue Emergency Services Day, presented proudly by BMA, was more than just a day of fun and games – it was a high-flying showcase of our region's finest emergency responders and community heroes. From the thrill of sitting in the pilot's seat of the rescue helicopter to the excitement of exploring fire trucks and police cars, attendees of all ages were treated to an action-packed day. The event, which ran from 10 AM to 2 PM, offered a plethora of interactive exhibits, hands-on demonstrations, and educational displays. Families enjoyed free entertainment like face painting and jumping castles, while food and beverages kept everyone fuelled up for the festivities.
A highlight of the day was the opportunity to meet the extraordinary volunteers from the State Emergency Service and organisations like Volunteer Marine Rescue as well as RACQ CQ Rescue crew and members from the Australian Army. These selfless individuals shared firsthand accounts of their heroic efforts, offering a glimpse into the invaluable work they do in our community. Children with their parents queued in long lines for the opportunity to sit in emergency vehicles, such as police cars and fire engines, while sitting on a police motorbike proved popular for photo opportunities.
The funds raised will play a crucial role in supporting the ongoing operations of the RACQ CQ Rescue service, ensuring that they can continue to provide lifesaving assistance to those in need.
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Photo credit: Coffee + Hops

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Today marks a peculiar moment for me as I sign off, knowing that by the time this is in print, I will have undergone my operation to remove colon cancer. As I write this, I am a bundle of nerves, but I am also eager to reclaim my life. A life where I don’t constantly feel drained, where I no longer have to monitor my blood loss and wonder if it’s time for another transfusion. The road ahead is uncertain and full of bumps, I won’t know the extent of the cancer’s spread until after the operation, nor how much chemotherapy or radiotherapy I will need. These questions loom large, but the journey is necessary to give me the best chance to spend many more precious moments with my family. The thought of not being here for my little boy brings me to tears every time.
The hardest question I face daily is how I am feeling. Most of the time, I don’t really know. I just focus on my task list and get on with it. But now that this edition is complete, and I am on medical leave for a couple of weeks, I am left to confront my reality and ponder all the unknowns. I still don’t really know how I feel.
However, I am incredibly proud of this edition. It’s one of the biggest we’ve produced in a while, packed with community content from a range of events, loads of local news and the sports section is huge. I hope you enjoy the read, and hopefully, I’ll be back in a couple of weeks.
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Amanda

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A local musician was performing at the front of a local supermarket, hoping to spread joy through his music, when an aggressive individual approached him and deliberately poured water over his amplifier.
This malicious act occurred last week at Coles in Andergrove and quickly caught the attention of bystanders, prompting a Facebook post to condemn the incident and call for support for the musician, Joshua Vine.
The response was overwhelming, with community members expressing outrage and compassion to the point of offering their amplifiers to replace the damaged one. One individual even volunteered to repair it free of charge for the local artist.  
Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music collaborated with Yamaha Music Mackay to cover the remaining costs for a replacement amplifier through public donations.
Star 101.9 radio station also reached out through a social media post in hopes of finding the artist as they expressed their interest in interviewing Josh and recording his new single, ‘Outgrown,’ live on air.
As the opportunity arose, Joshua made a live appearance on the radio station, where local listeners were left in awe of the amazing talent that flowed from Joshua’s voice in the studio.
From what was deemed to be a devastating result of the ruined amplifier, soon turned into an outpour of support from the community and various organisations, including the generous gift of a new amplifier along with a live on-air radio opportunity.
With new doors opening in Joshua’s musical journey, we hope that opportunities continue to arise in his future.

Joshua Vine has been gifted a new amplifier after he was approached by a malicious individual who ruined his equipment whilst performing at a local supermarket.  Photo source: STAR 101.9FM Mackay

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Queensland Hydro has recently released artist impressions of the proposed lower reservoir of the Pioneer-Burdekin Project. These visualisations offer a first glimpse of what could become a significant renewable energy facility in the region.
Queensland Hydro has said it will put in place mitigation strategies to reduce the visual impact of the project if it proceeds.
"We committed to developing visualisations of the proposed Pioneer-Burdekin Project so the community could see how it may look. We can now share the artist impressions of the proposed lower reservoir," stated a Queensland Hydro representative.
"When viewing these artist impressions, especially of the proposed lower reservoir dam wall, remember there are many ways the visual impact would be mitigated if the project receives approval."
The initial impressions depict an unmitigated view of the project, but Queensland Hydro assures the community that various strategies will be explored to enhance the visual appeal.
"We have decided for these first impressions to show the unmitigated view. However, Queensland Hydro will explore and expand on existing ideas to mitigate the view as our plans and initial investigations progress," the representative added.
Some of the suggestions received so far include strategic planting near the proposed dam wall, murals and public art, vertical gardens, and green plating walls.
"We are always open to receiving feedback and ideas from the community so please get in touch if you have suggestions.”
As discussions about the Pioneer-Burdekin Pumped Hydro Energy Storage Project continue, there have been remarks highlighting its potential as the world's largest hydro facility in terms of storage and generation. However, Queensland Hydro clarifies that this does not equate to the largest surface area or footprint.
The project is poised to produce more energy than any other pumped hydro facility worldwide, but its surface footprint remains relatively compact. Queensland Hydro has said that this compact size is offset by the facility's capacity to generate unprecedented amounts of reliable renewable energy.
Key factors contributing to this efficiency include a 700-meter elevation difference and short tunnel lengths between the lower and upper reservoirs, approximately 5 kilometres compared to the Snowy 2.0 Scheme tunnels at 27 kilometres. Additionally, the facility will house up to 16 underground turbines, capable of storing and circulating water to generate electricity on demand, ensuring power availability when solar and wind sources are inactive.
The community is encouraged to stay engaged and provide input as Queensland Hydro moves forward with its initial investigation on the viability of this project.
Geotechnical investigations and environmental studies continue across both the proposed upper and lower reservoirs. The drill rigs in the upper reservoir areas are investigating proposed locations for dam foundations and waterway tunnels.  The lower reservoir site investigations are collecting core samples in proposed locations for the Mackay Eungella Road realignment and the proposed dam.  

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Proposed lower reservoir from Goodes Lookout – 6-8 hours after pumping. The surface area of the lower reservoir is about half the size of nearby Kinchant Dam. Images supplied: Queensland Hydro
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Proposed lower reservoir wall from Mackay-Eungella Road towards Netherdale. This image is shown approximately 400 metres from the lower reservoir wall. The wall height is based on early design work and expected to be 65 metres, similar to the height of nearby Teemburra Dam

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Around thirty-eight riders set out on the epic RideWest biannual 1311km charity bike ride from Brisbane to Longreach in the month of April, which was designed to raise crucial funds for mental health support programs, in particular focus to rural Queenslanders and their mental wellbeing in the bush.

Successfully, this year’s event raised more than their target of $600,000.

Mental health services for the Royal Flying Doctor Service are extremely vital out west in 2024 and the $2 million that RideWest riders have raised over the past 13 years has been an enormous boost for the Wellbeing Out West program. This event was made possible with over a dozen support staff such as paramedics and police escorts on board to ensure a smooth trip for everyone involved.

Les and Shelley Hancock founded the RideWest organisation in 2010 after recognising the lack of resources and support for those out west who were struggling with their mental health. John and Petrea Sloman have also been instrumental in organising the event since 2016.

Participants ranging from 19 to 73-year-olds demonstrate that all ages are welcome, so long as you have the mental and physical fortitude to tackle the rewarding challenge.

We spoke with Mackay local, Bernie Bell, who participated in his first ever RideWest event earlier this year on the 19th of April, spanning eight days of cycling which he says was not only a physical test, but most importantly a mental one.

After conquering mountains in Nepal and pushing himself to his cycling limits, Bernie recalls a pivotal moment in 2014 that ignited his interest in riding. Initially drawn to the RideWest event for the physical endeavour, he soon discovered the profound camaraderie that arose from riding alongside individuals who shared the similar passion of combatting mental health.

“This is the first ride I’ve been on and it was just really fulfilling, the people were fantastic and it was just brilliant.”

Bernie said that it was quite an insightful trip, where riders shared their personal journeys and connected with each other after a shared meal on some nights, underlining that it wasn’t just an athletic challenge, but rather an experience where people of all walks of life could come together and acknowledge the very real effects of mental health.

“There’s a lot of mental health struggles out in the bush and there’s no facilities out west to cover it,” he said.

“You know on the coast, we’re pretty lucky, we can see a therapist or talk to somebody all the time, but out there, they don’t even have regular doctors, so it’s very difficult.”

With an eager mindset to enter into the next ride in 2026, Bernie is hoping to raise funds for the next RideWest event. Money raised will go directly to the RFDS and to those battling their mental health alone in rural areas.

If you would like to contribute to Bernie’s mission, you can donate at:
https://ridewest-2024.raisely.com/bernie-bell

Caption: Thirty-eight riders peddled from Brisbane to Longreach over a period of eight days to raise funds in light of mental health support in rural areas. Local participant, Bernie Bell says it was a “challenging, but rewarding” experience.

Caption: Bernie Bell embared on his first ever RideWest challenge this year, but loved every minute of it and is eager to enter again in 2026. Images supplied

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An increasing trend of incidents involving verbal and physical threats against its staff has prompted Mackay Regional Council to act.
Council is standing up for its workers and saying it won’t tolerate this abuse.
It is about to launch a No Excuse for Abuse campaign, which will include radio and television ads featuring four council staff members, as well as posters at its facilities.
CEO Scott Owen said there had been an alarming increase in incidents involving threats against staff.
“This includes in person, over the phone and on social media,’’ Mr Owen said.
“Our staff are part of the community and are just doing their job. It is totally unacceptable to abuse, threaten or intimidate our staff, he said.
“Council will not tolerate this sort of behaviour.”
Mr Owen said there had been more than 165 safety incidents involving some factor of unsavoury interaction by the public in less than two-and-a-half years.
He said that included 40 in 2022, 96 in 2023 and 30 so far in 2024.
“Some of that increase is due to better reporting by staff, but the high numbers are alarming, especially as much of them were going unreported previously.”
Of the injury and near miss incidents reported to council in the past couple of years, 15 per cent were aggressive interactions with members of the public.
“This includes physical assault, threats, inappropriate behaviour, stalking, inappropriate physical contact and verbal abuse,’’ Mr Owen said.
“That is nearly as high as muscular stress injuries suffered by our staff, which was 18 per cent of all incidents reported.”
Mr Owen said as council’s campaign included real staff and not actors, it would not be putting the videos on social media.

“Unfortunately, social media is also where we see a lot of abuse directed at council and its staff,’’ he said.
“We don’t want to subject the staff who have put their hands up to front this important campaign to any abuse on social media.”

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Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, said common sense has prevailed, after confirmation the crossbench will block Labor’s “disastrous and ill-thought-out” fresh food tax in the Senate.
 
It comes after The Nationals spent the past year campaigning with farmers and industry against the tax, called a biosecurity protection levy, which Willcox said would have hurt both families and farmers in Dawson amid a cost-of-living crisis.
 
“This is a win for families, a win for farmers and a win for regional Australia,” Mr Willcox said.
 
“I am proud to have been part of a campaign to stop Labor’s fresh food tax as soon as it was announced in Labor’s bad Budget last year.

“I would like to thank everyone who supported The Nationals and joined our efforts to scrap this tax, either by signing our petition, backing our media campaign or helping to highlight just how disgraceful Labor’s reckless new tax would be.
 
“Not only would this tax drive up the price of fresh food in Dawson, with farmers forced to pass on costs, it would also undermine the entire levy system, causing chaos and confusion across industry.
 
“Families need food that is more affordable and our farmers need support to get food from paddock to plate. While Labor tried to introduce the exact opposite, The Nationals will always fight for common sense and for fairness in the regions.”
 
Mr Willcox added Agriculture Minister Murray Watt should be ashamed for even contemplating the idea, let alone trying to push it through and introduce the tax on July 1.
 
“The fact Minister Watt refused to listen to concerns and instead doubled down, carrying out a rushed and confusing policy which lacked in detail, is either lazy or arrogant,” Mr Willcox added.
 
“It was senseless when better alternatives were offered by The Nationals, such as an importer container levy, which would charge importers, not our own farmers, to pay for biosecurity risks being created as produce comes into the country.
 
“In what parallel universe would a government charge its own farmers to pay for the biosecurity risks their competitors are creating, just to raise $150 million over three years for consolidated revenue?

“I want families and farmers to know The Nationals have your back. We stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Australian farmers today and welcome news the Senate will reject Labor’s fresh food tax.”

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Last week, the CEO of the Red Rose Foundation joined the Mater Mackay leadership team to unveil Mater Hospital's first Red Bench to take a stand against domestic violence, in recognition of Domestic and Family Violence Awareness Month, this May. 

CEO of the Red Rose Foundation, Betty Taylor had the honours of cutting the ribbon as the official unveiling of the shiny red bench situated to the side of the main Mater Hospital entrance.  

“It’s such a bright red, you can’t miss it and it does send that signal of what we call a ‘beacon of hope’ because it says to a victim, ‘here’s an organisation that cares about domestic and family violence and wants to make a public statement against it’.”

Local QPS domestic and family violence representative, Tamara Cook spoke on the meaning behind these benches and the importance of them being visible across the community. 

Constable Cook said that “Domestic Violence is no longer a behind closed doors issue, it’s a major social issue but we’ve all got a part to play, and police can no longer do it on our own.

“Domestic and family violence is devastating to not only those directly involved but it affects all of us.

“Who would have thought that in 2024, we are desperately trying to repair basic human rights and the freedom to be safe in a relationship.”

“I encourage everyone of us to stand up against domestic violence, we have a role to play in ending domestic violence, whether it’s speaking out when we see something is wrong, supporting victims and survivors or educating others about the signs of abuse.

“We must all do our part to create a world where everyone feels safe and respected in a relationship,” she remarked.

The Red Rose Foundational moto ‘Take A Seat To Take A Stand’ is a simple yet meaningful gesture to offer community support and stand against domestic and family violence in hopes that small steps will soon enough make a big impact on this rising societal issue.

With the unveiling of this bench, the staff within the Mater Hospital aim to make it known to patients and their visitors that there is support for them or their loved ones if they are currently experiencing DFV. 

The presence of a Red Bench in a public location aims to raise awareness of domestic violence and provide an opportunity for this important issue to remain visible.

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Supporters from various organisations united in their efforts to stand against the issue, including representatives from the Red Rose Foundation, QPS, Women’s Health Service, the Mater Hospital staff and Member for Mackay Julianne Gilbert. Photo credit Hannah McNamara

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