Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
There are new things to consider when buying real estate in Australia. Up until last month, people buying real estate in Sydney really only considered the capital growth they were expecting to create within just a few years of making their purchase. Paying $1.2 million for an inner-city two-bedroom apartment didn’t matter so much if it was going to be worth $1.5 million two years later. It didn’t really matter that the crap rental returns you got for that price didn’t go anywhere near covering the mortgage because the old negative gearing benefit meant you could claim the losses on your tax. Things have changed. Negative gearing has gone and prices are dropping in Sydney … so that $1.2 million apartment doesn’t look so enticing any more, even though it’s now $1.1 million. Other cities have also been hit hard. Melbourne is now one of the cheapest cities in Australia to buy real estate. Although there are special Victorian reasons that come into play in that state. Victorians were bullied during COVID in a way that impacted small businesses in a disastrous way. The state’s debt is exorbitant, and no one seems to know how it gets paid back. Tobacco shops keep getting blown up by some underworld gang thing that the Government can’t control. They have metal boxes where people can hand in their machetes and that doesn’t appear to instil peace of mind in anyone. Terrible Governments end up having an impact and it definitely has had one on property prices in Victoria. A quick scan of on-line property sites shows you that you can pick up a decent two-bedroom unit in an inner-city suburbs like St Kilda and Collingwood in the $400,000s. I saw a three-bedder in St Kilda advertised in the $500,000s. While those prices might seem like great value, there are reasons the market is so low. People don’t trust the state Government and its management of the economy and the obvious concern would be that even though the prices might be low, there is no guarantee of capital growth. Capital growth has offered a warm embrace for investors in Australian real estate over many years. There has been an expectation that prices will go up. Obviously they will go up again but the questions is: Where will they go up, when and by how much? Unfortunately I don’t have the answer to that but I do find that when things get a bit blurry and uncertain, it’s good to stick to what you know … which, for me, is Mackay. We have several advantages over many other markets. Our median price for houses, in the $600,000s, is a lot lower than bigger cities so more affordable for local people who, by the way, still need somewhere to live. And, with the end of negative gearing and the banning of borrowing for property out of self-managed super funds, lower prices and strong rental returns should become a key factor in real estate investment. Yes, investors want capital growth but I feel the focus will probably shift more to rental yield and the monthly return on investment. Mackay’s rental returns are good and the purchase prices relatively low compared to other markets so there seems to me a good chance that our market will continue to be buoyed by those wanting to take advantage of that. Meanwhile the Mackay economy seems to be going well, driven by that crucial resource that is dug out of the ground and exported to countries that make steel. I got strong offers on three properties this week so there is a feeling that while there has certainly been a change driven by national political factors, our market is moving through it, adjusting to the new information and still bubbling along. The only thing I would say is that if any of you bump into David Crisafulli tell him to dump those high-level coal royalties.
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Queensland’s top real estate professionals and agencies are being called to step into the spotlight, with nominations now open for the Real Estate Institute of Queensland’s (REIQ) 2026 Awards for Excellence. REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella said the awards remained the state’s highest professional recognition in real estate and continued to adapt alongside the profession itself. “The REIQ Awards for Excellence are the pinnacle of professional recognition in Queensland real estate, and each year we ensure the program remains contemporary, inclusive and reflective of the full scope of our profession,” Ms Mercorella said. “This year, we’re delighted to add a new Multi-Office Network of the Year category, recognising real estate agencies that operate as a unified multi-office network. “It’s a category our members asked for, and it’s a great example of how the awards continue to evolve alongside the structure and sophistication of Queensland real estate businesses.” Ms Mercorella said there was even more incentive for members to nominate this year, with a pathway from the outset to national recognition in eligible categories through the Real Estate Institute of Australia’s (REIA) National Awards for Excellence (NAFE). The REIQ Awards for Excellence span individual and agency categories, with some split into regional and SEQ areas, across residential and commercial sales, property management, buyer’s agency, auctioneering, business broking, multimedia, innovation and community contribution. Ms Mercorella said real estate professionals throughout Queensland could now start preparing and polishing their award nominations with the clock now ticking down. It’s time to shine! Nominations close on Sunday 12th July 2026, with the winners announced at a spectacular awards gala on Saturday 31st October 2026 at The Star Brisbane. Nominate now via awards.reiq.com
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Makayla Groves and Bianca O'Brien are part of the commercial property team at Blacks Real Estate, supporting landlords, tenants and business owners across the Mackay region. Working as Commercial Property Managers, Makayla and Bianca assist with the day-to-day management of commercial properties, helping clients navigate leasing and property management requirements across retail, office and industrial spaces. Based at the agency’s Wood Street office, the pair work closely with business clients throughout the region as part of Blacks Real Estate’s commercial division. Makayla Groves can be contacted on 07 4963 2522, while Bianca O’Brien can be contacted on 07 4963 2525. CAPTION: Bianca O'Brien works with Blacks Real Estate as a Commercial Property Manager. Photo supplied Makayla Groves works as a Commercial Property Manager with Blacks Real Estate. Photo supplied
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The Coalition has pledged to make the Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility (NAIF) a permanent institution, arguing the move would provide long-term certainty for regional investment, infrastructure and jobs across Northern Australia, including Mackay. The announcement follows the Federal Government's decision to extend the NAIF for a further 10 years, rather than permanently removing its sunset clause. Leader of The Nationals Matt Canavan said while the Coalition would support Labor's legislation, it believed the independent review's recommendation to make the facility permanent should be adopted. “The Developing Northern Australia is a proud LNP achievement,” Senator Canavan said. “Despite naysayers at the time, Northern Australia has remained on the agenda ever since. I am personally proud to have introduced the original Northern Australia legislation in 2016, with the policy built on the work that was done by LNP Members of Parliaments such as former Senator Ian Macdonald and former MP Warren Entsch. “Unfortunately, Labor is now kicking the can down the road. Northern Australia shouldn’t have to fight every decade to prove it is worthy of investment. “The independent review recommended making the NAIF permanent because it works. The Coalition established the NAIF in 2016, and we will make it permanent because Northern Australia should have long-term certainty for investment, jobs and economic growth.” Since its creation, the NAIF has supported 33 projects with $4.3 billion in finance commitments, helping deliver more than 18,000 jobs and an estimated $33 billion in public benefit across Northern Australia. Those investments include upgrades to airports in Darwin, Alice Springs, Townsville, Cairns and Mackay, along with projects supporting agriculture, mining and manufacturing. Shadow Minister for Northern Australia Senator Susan McDonald said permanent funding would continue to drive regional development. “Labor talks about Northern Australia, but the Coalition backs it with lasting investment,” Senator McDonald said. “The NAIF has transformed communities, unlocked private investment and created jobs across the North. Making it permanent sends a clear message that the Coalition believes in Northern Australia’s future and won’t treat its development as a temporary priority.” “Governments come and go, but Northern Australia’s importance will never diminish,” she said.
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The Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors celebrated the 20th anniversary of being active in the region this Thursday with a special event held in their honour at Shute Harbour Marine Terminal.
Coordinator Lyn Blanche said the group was extremely proud of this milestone especially since it is a volunteer group.
The Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors celebrate 20 years this week. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
The Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors’ main role is to greet the cruise ship passengers. As they disembark, the volunteers are there to welcome guests to Airlie Beach, they provide maps, information booklets, and ask what passengers want to get out of their day.
Cruise ship passengers only have limited time in Airlie Beach, so if the passengers do not currently have plans, the volunteers can suggest numerous activities.
Browsing through the local markets, exploring the Bicentennial Boardwalk, taking a dip at the lagoon or indulging at one of the restaurants are popular choices.
Many passengers enjoy spending time in a café or eating lunch and Lyn says this is a byproduct of what they are trying to achieve.
“The main priority is to make sure that every person who comes off the boat has a really good time because what we are looking for is return business,” said Lyn.
“We want them to have such a great day in Airlie Beach that they are going to come back again another time and spend a bit longer with us.
“Additionally, we're aiming to support the local businesses, that's the flip side of inviting people and being enthusiastic about the area is that it supports our local businesses as well.”
As Coordinator, Lyn creates a schedule of all arriving cruise ships and then creates a roster open to all volunteers, and those available can greet the passengers.
Lyn has been with the Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors for almost five years and Coordinator for two.
“In July we reached the millionth visitor and it has been fantastic to be able say, we have welcomed our one millionth visitor in our twentieth year,” said Lyn.
“A big thing for us this year was to win the gold award at the Whitsunday Tourism Awards for Outstanding Contribution by a Volunteer or Volunteer Group.”
Visitor Services Manager at Tourism Whitsundays Dea Huvonen helps out Lyn and the Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors where possible and is thrilled with them reaching 20 years.
“It is an incredible achievement for a volunteer group to celebrate 20 years of service,” she said.
“A big warm thank you and congratulations to each and every cruise ship volunteer who has so kindly donated their time over the years.”
Tourism Whitsunday Chief Executive Officer Tim Booth expresses his thanks towards the volunteers and says they showcase our region to travellers.
“Their dedication and warm welcomes make everyone feel right at home, creating an unforgettable experience for everyone who arrives,” he said.
“We want to give a huge thank you to each and every one of the volunteers for helping showcase the beauty of our region.
“In doing so, they create a lasting impression of our community and truly make Airlie Beach such a special destination.”
Cruise Ship Ambassador Lyn Blanche Woodham and Dea Huvonen from Tourism Whitsundays accepting an award for Outstanding Contribution by a Volunteer or Volunteer Group at the Whitsundays Tourism Awards last month. Photo credit: R Jean Photography
Congratulations to the Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors on celebrating 20 years this week – such a huge achievement for this active volunteer group who bring bright smiles and friendly welcomes to cruise ship guests as they arrive in the Whitsundays.
To think they’ve welcomed their 1 millionth passenger this year as well is just incredible.
Twice this week I have been down to the Airlie Beach sign at the Lagoon, once with our journalist Daniel to meet up with the Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors and the second time we went down to interview Tim Booth, the new CEO of Tourism Whitsundays.
It was great to meet Tim who seems like a really nice guy and is full of energy and enthusiasm for the massive role of leading tourism marketing in our region.
You can watch our full interview by clicking the QR code next to the article on page 6, this will take you to our YouTube Channel.
While at the Airlie Beach sign I noticed a nearby landmark had popped-up overnight – the iconic Airlie Beach Festival of Music big-top tent was in-place and ready for this weekend’s festivities.
There is always something that makes your heart sing when you see the big white awning of the tent – the promise of fun and good times – the tent perched on the headland, creating one of the most scenic main-stage venues anywhere in the country.
Now in its 13th year, our local music festival attracts thousands of people from all around the country and, if you haven’t got your tickets yet, I suggest you go and get some!
For the full line-up and an insight into some of the local venues that will be hosting live performances over the weekend turn to page 15 for our special feature.
The weather looks to be amazing all weekend so it will be a spectacular event to attend.
Rach
Quote of the Week: “Life is like a bicycle. To keep your balance you must keep moving” (Albert Einstein)
In November, you might notice more mo’s popping up everywhere. While they often serve as a fashion statement, this month they carry a much deeper significance.
Movember is a charitable organisation dedicated to raising funds for different facets of men's health, including mental health, suicide prevention, testicular cancer, and prostate cancer.
Now emerging as a global movement, Movember is a powerful conversation starter for men worldwide and opens a safe space for those struggling.
Here in the Whitsundays, local men are already embracing the spirit of Movember by growing their moustaches, whether on their own or as part of their workplaces.
Do you think you can grow the best moustache in the Whitsundays? Enter our free competition for a chance to have your 'mo featured in the newspaper! The top mustache will win a business feature valued at $600 for your chosen business.
Join the Movember squad this year and make a difference. Grow a 'mo for your bros and help raise awareness!
Head to Mackay and Whitsunday Life Facebook page on how to enter the competition:
Monday, November 11, marks the anniversary of the Armistice that ended the fighting with Germany in World War I.
Each year, at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, millions around the world observe a moment of silence to honor the sacrifices made by countless individuals, ensuring the freedoms and peace we enjoy today.
Suburbs around the Whitsunday region are all hosting remembrance services to pay respects to the lives that were lost.
Find your local remembrance service below:
Bowen – Bowen RSL, 11TH November 2024, 10:45am
Airlie beach – Cannonvale Cenotaph, 11TH November 2024, 11am
The Whitsunday region is one step closer to being Australia’s first space rocket launch site following the announcement this week that an orbit launch permit has now been granted for Bowen Orbital Spaceport.
If all goes to plan, the first rocket launch for the Gilmour Space launch site in Bowen could happen within the next few months.
Minister for Industry and Science, Ed Husic MP, and the Australian Space Agency has granted the country's first orbital launch permit to Gilmour Space Technologies for its maiden Eris rocket launch from the Bowen Orbital Spaceport.
An Australian launch permit is required under the Space (Launches & Returns) Act 2018 to launch an object from Australia to an altitude of over 100 kilometres. It comes with a number of conditions that must be met before launch, and a mandatory 30-day notification period.
Gilmour Space CEO and co-founder, Adam Gilmour, welcomed the news as a major milestone for the local space industry. "With this green light, we will soon attempt the first orbital test flight of an Australian-made rocket from Australian soil.”
"Our team is assessing the conditions of the permit and will advise on the anticipated launch date for Eris TestFlight1 in the coming weeks."
In March, Gilmour's Bowen Orbital Spaceport was granted Australia's first orbital launch facility licence by Minister Husic and was officially opened by then-Queensland Deputy Premier Cameron Dick.
In September, the company announced it had successfully completed a major wet dress rehearsal of its Eris launch vehicle, progressing the countdown to T-10 seconds.
The upcoming TestFlight1 will be the first of several planned test launches to reach orbit with Eris, which leverages new propulsion technologies developed by the Gold Coast-based company.
Since starting its rocket program in 2015, Gilmour Space has expanded to over 200 employees, built a local supply chain of more than 300 Australian companies, attracted significant private investment, gained support from local, state and federal governments, and actively engaged communities across the region.
Its north Queensland spaceport, one of only a few private orbital launch sites globally, will initially provide access to low- and mid-inclination orbits.
With rockets and satellites designed and built on the Gold Coast and launched from Bowen, Gilmour's efforts have been a boon for regional Australia.
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said this is a huge milestone.
"The launch approval marks an incredible milestone for Bowen and the Whitsundays region,” said Mayor Ry Collins.
“The team at Gilmour Space have been incredible to work with, and their commitment to engaging Bowen residents in this journey is a model of proactive community involvement.
"Success here isn't just about reaching orbit—it's about positioning Bowen as a key player in Australia's journey to space. This is just the beginning."
For updates on TestFlight1, visit gspace.com/missions.
Gilmour Space founders, brothers Adam and James Gilmour
Gilmour Space's Eris orbital launch vehicle at the Bowen Orbital Spaceport in north QLD
Eris on the pad
Photos supplied
Tourism Whitsundays new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Tim Booth is now in the region and started his new position on Monday.
Tim has 18 years of experience in destination marketing organisations, progressing through the ranks and most recently was the CEO of Mudgee Region Tourism before becoming the CEO of Tourism Whitsundays.
Under Tim’s leadership the Mudgee Region increased visitation, visitor spend and won multiple State and National Tourism Awards.
Tim said he is thrilled to be working alongside the dynamic team at Tourism Whitsundays and is looking forward to meeting the fellow Tourism Whitsundays partners and members.
“We have always got to try and be better every day, that’s what we are trying to do for the entire region,” said Tim.
“We are managing the brand for the Whitsundays, we want to make sure that we get the message out there about how beautiful our region is and thankfully its absolutely iconic and world class.
“We have also got to look at continuing to build and be better every day. That’s the community, that’s all of our businesses and continue to offer a world class destination.”
Tim's prior experience includes developing and implementing major projects such as brand redevelopment, social strategy, website overhauls and event-specific platforms like the Everi platform.
He has successfully managed all aspects of digital strategy, including SEO, SEM, social media, and content creation, all while driving a data-led decision-making approach.
Tim is thrilled with his new position saying, “How could you not want to work in one of the most magical places in the world?”
Click on the QR code here to watch the full video of Tim’s interview.
Tim Booth New CEO of Tourism Whitsundays was interviewed by Rachael Smith from Whitsunday Life Newspaper earlier this week. Photo supplied
Last week Bowen Gumlu Growers (BGGA) celebrated a two-day agricultural event titled ‘GrownIn NQ’.
Bowen Gumlu Growers Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Jenn Honnery said the two-day event went well.
“On day-one growers, agribusinesses and related industries, got together for an industry breakfast. We had a couple of speakers talking about their specific industries, soil health and crop rotations and then we headed out for some farm tours,” said Jenn.
“On day two there was an Innovation Showcase. We had about 21 exhibitors showing off a very broad spectrum of Ag tech that's available in Queensland right now.
“It was a great opportunity for growers to get their hands on what's available for their businesses and have a really good chat with their suppliers about what would work for them."
Jenn noted that on day two it was great to see not just Ag tech suppliers and businesses interacting but seeing business to business interaction too.
“At BGGA we're really supportive of growers who are interested in investing in ag tech,” said Jenn.
“Ag tech isn't a new thing. It's been in this space for a very long time.
“I think now it's really drilling down into more data, and the more data you have about your crops, your yields, water management, pest management, the more you can fine tune your business decisions and support cutting costs, and get some real benefits in certainly yields, but also quality of produce.”
GrownIn NQ event was extremely successful with many businesses attending. Photo sourced: Facebook
It’s a new era for the Whitsundays, with our re-elected Queensland Member of Parliament Amanda Camm entering government and the Cabinet as Minister for Families, Seniors and Disability Services and Minister for Child Safety and the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence.
The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry offers our congratulations to the candidates who stepped up to represent our community and responded to Chamber member concerns. We look forward to continuing raising the challenges and ideas of the Whitsunday business community with Ms Camm, particularly the priorities of road infrastructure, business insurance, and increasing regional influence.
The Chamber’s advocacy efforts span all levels of government and regional stakeholder groups, where we are a voice for the business community. We have recently been appointed to the Whitsunday Regional Council’s Economic Development Advisory Group that has the distinct purpose to support and promote the growth, sustainability, and competitiveness of our local economy through collaboration between the local government and key industry and business stakeholders. In addition to this forum, the Chamber has embarked on a series of regular knowledge exchange briefings with Council, and our members for state and federal government.
Yesterday we held our Annual General Meeting, providing positive reports on membership growth, engagement, and financial sustainability. We also outlined plans for the year ahead including the establishment of a Chamber Advisory Group, a strategic think tank that will shape a range a Chamber initiatives such as the federal election, regional economic development, workforce availability and productivity, and our Whitsunday Business Conference. We look forward to sharing updates on our progress and how the business community can get involved.
Contributed with thanks to Alan Milostic,
President of Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
The Council's Greening and Growing Bowen initiative created a recycled water network for Bowen's parks and public green spaces. The recycled water is treated to very high standards, ensuring it's safe for community use. With additional measures like late-night irrigation to ensure absorption before public use, this program saves $250,000 annually. Starting 1 July, the program will extend to Grays Bay Foreshore Park. For more information, check out the fact sheet on our website. https://bit.ly/Whitsundayrecycledwater
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Council recognise that local businesses are the backbone of our economy. When we engage local suppliers, tradespeople, and service providers for council projects, we’re not just delivering value for money; we’re investing in the long-term prosperity of our region.
For local businesses looking to work with councils in Queensland, understanding the strict procurement process is key to successfully securing contracts.
Which is why Council is proactive in hosting FREE workshops, specifically designed to guide you through the council's tender process and boost your chances of success. Our procurement team held a workshop recently at Shute Harbour Marine Terminal and another is planned for Flagstaff Hill.
I know that navigating tenders can sometimes feel complex, but these workshops are designed to make the process simpler and more accessible to local businesses. The workshops give practical insights into the process and allow interaction with procurement specialists to better educate local businesses in understanding the tendering process and improving their chances of success.
Council also gives a percentage weighting to local businesses to make them more competitive because we believe local businesses bring more than just skills and expertise. When they work on council projects, they’re doing more than fulfilling a contract—they’re helping to build the very community in which they live, work, and raise their families.
Using local businesses keeps money circulating within our region. It means jobs for local people, growth for local enterprises, and an economy that’s strong, resilient, and capable of weathering challenges, whether they be global pandemics or natural disasters.
We know that supporting local businesses also brings other benefits—environmental sustainability by reducing transportation costs and emissions, increased engagement and collaboration, and higher levels of trust and accountability, because the people delivering council projects are your friends and neighbours.
Council is committed to ensuring that local businesses have every opportunity to participate in our procurement processes through initiatives like our free tender workshops.
To the businesses that already partner with the council, thank you for your hard work and dedication. And to those considering taking part, I encourage you to get involved, bid for tenders, and help us continue building a bright future for our region.
Together, by investing in our local businesses, we’re investing in a stronger, more connected Whitsunday community.
The B Kinder Foundation is taking meaningful action to foster a kinder world by hosting a Stand and Walk for Kindness on World Kindness Day. Local children will come together to participate in this inspiring event, spreading a message of compassion and encouraging others in the community to join in and make a difference.
The B Kinder foundation offers a positive solution to the mental health issues that youth are facing.
Former Whitsunday resident Danny Mayson-Kinder founded B Kinder to honour the legacy of her beautiful 12-year-old daughter Billie Kinder who tragically died in a horse accident in 2016.
After Billie's accident, her mother, Danny Mason-Kinder, found her daughter’s paintings and poems, which illustrated incredible insights into kindness and empathy. She has since used these to create a book using her daughter’s work.
Seeing how this book inspired others, Danny created the B Kinder Foundation and the broader B Kinder Day, to help spread kindness and combat bullying in the community and within schools.
It is now part of Billie’s legacy to help thousands of children discover the power of kindness through various programs.
These programs and initiatives are having a substantial impact in schools and throughout communities around the country taking positive and preventative action.
Using Billie’s insightful words and beautiful artworks, B Kinder has created evidence-based well-being programs and resources to help children in their pivotal years by encouraging them to become kinder, more empathetic and more compassionate.
Everyone can make a difference. The Walk for a Kinder World will help individuals to connect with community, remind them that kindness matters and help raise funds to supply our programs and resources where they are needed most.
At the event there will be a free sausage sizzle, fruit and water provided as well as everyone receiving a free b kinder card to pass on some kindness to someone else for World kindness day!
Head on down and remember to B Kinder!
What: Walk for Kinder
When: Wednesday 13th November, 7am-8am
Where: Cannonvale Beach Foreshore opposite Fat Frog Cafe
Proserpine State High School students mark B Kinder Day
The grand opening of the Classic Christmas Shop at 18 Main Street in Proserpine, last Friday, was a huge success.
As we enter the festive season, this new Christmas store in Proserpine supplies us with joyful spirit and good cheer.
From snow globes to tree decorations, to ornaments, the Classic Christmas Shop in Proserpine has your festive season covered.
Caroline Garraway is owner of the shop alongside her daughter Alexandra Garraway.
Alexandra Garraway expressed these thoughts:
“Christmas is such a magical time for our family,” she said.
As Christmas is the time to be spreading joy Alexandra also expressed that the store is a place where you can always find joyous Christmas spirit.
“The joy on people's faces is always really fun and we did a little preview night a couple nights ago, with some friends to welcome them to the shop,” she said.
“It was so exciting, and to see everybody wanting to see everything light up was honestly the best.”
The family behind the Classic Christmas Shop are extremely proud of the store they have created.
The opening day was made even more special with Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins cutting the ribbon to officially mark the opening.
Head down to Classic Christmas Shop in Proserpine and make sure to check out the family’s resident Nutcracker Harry. He has been in the family for years and he is always available for a photo.
The family behind the Classic Christmas Shop Caroline, Alexandra, Jessica and Amy Garraway
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins cutting the ribbon
Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
This week
Season to date
Cane crushed
91,441
1,261,715
Average bin weight
9.50
9.61
CCS
13.89
14.05
Cane variety performance for region
Variety
%
CCS
Variety
%
CCS
Q208
20.9
14.53
Q253
10.7
12.30
Q240
20.2
14.08
KQ228
3.3
13.37
SRA9
13.5
14.10
Q252
2.0
13.67
Q183
13.1
14.16
SP80
1.7
13.10
Comments
Proserpine Mill processed just over 91,400 tonnes of cane for the week, bringing the season total to 1.26M tonnes.
Throughput was above budget, following the successful installation of a new injection water pump motor early in the week. This addressed an issue which had been limiting the factory’s crushing capacity.
The average weekly CCS came in below budget at 13.87 units.
The highest CCS was 16.60 units from a rake of ratoon Q208 from the Elaroo productivity district.
Please remember to use your train brain and always take care around our cane rail network.
A fully loaded cane train can take up to one kilometre to pull up. Our cane trains work around the clock, seven days a week.
Peter Luke
Cane Supply Manager
Proserpine Region
The Proserpine Lions Club is excited to announce that students from Proserpine State High School have taken the initiative to establish a young Leo’s Club. This new venture aims to engage local youth in community service, fundraising activities, and a variety of projects designed to support and enrich the Proserpine community.
Leo clubs are the youth arm of the Lions Clubs International organisation, empowering young people who understand the impact of service and are committed to making a difference. Through volunteer work and community involvement, Leo Club members not only improve the lives of others but also grow personally, gaining valuable leadership skills, building lifelong friendships, and creating positive change.
Leo Clubs can be established in schools or within local communities. Each club is supported by a Lions club sponsor, with a designated Leo Club Advisor from the sponsoring Lions club providing guidance. For school-based clubs, a faculty member is often appointed to assist and support the club's activities and goals.
The Proserpine Lions Club will be actively involved in guiding and mentoring the students as they embark on this journey. The Lions believe that this club will not only empower young people but also strengthen community ties and encourage a spirit of volunteerism among the youth.
Proserpine State High School students with Mayor Ry Collins
Proserpine Golf Club is hosting a fantastic fundraising event in support of Breast Cancer and Prostate awareness day.
The event was organised in response to several club members having both breast and prostate cancer. Additionally, event organiser Noelene Spurway was personally impacted, with both her father and a close friend battling one of these cancers.
In previous years, the club has primarily focused on fundraising for breast cancer awareness. However, recognising that prostate cancer is equally significant, the club has decided to expand its efforts this year to support both causes.
This year's event will consist of a variety of activities, including a ‘Best Dressed’ competition, live music and a BBQ. If that isn't enough to get you excited, the club will also be auctioning off a framed signed football jersey donated by Filby's Motors and framed by Whitsunday Framing, a Broncos Jersey, a trip to the reef and a fishing charter, alongside much more.
There will also be a raffle and a 100’s Board, to keep you entertained throughout the day, and to help fundraise for the cause.
If transport is a worry for you, Whitsunday Transport will be providing rides to and from the event for a gold coin donation. The bus will be stopping at all major bus stops from Proserpine to Jubilee Pocket, to ensure anyone wanting to attend the event, can.
Another great perk is that you don’t need to be a club member to join in — everyone is welcome to come out and support the cause. Whether you create your own corporate team or simply show up to play, your participation makes a difference!
Noelene Spurway added that she looks forward to seeing individuals come and support the cause:
“Nearly everyone will have been touched by prostate or breast cancer, whether it's having it themselves, or a friend or family member having it, there's very few people it hasn't touched.
“We are just trying to raise as much money as possible for breast and prostate cancer.”
Prostate and breast cancer are two of the most common forms of cancer, with 1 in 6 men being diagnosed with prostate cancer and 1 in 7 women getting a breast cancer diagnosis. It is, therefore, highly important to support these events.
Join the Proserpine Golf Club for a day of fun and fundraising! Play your best round while fundraising for breast and prostate cancer – and who knows, you might even score a hole-in-one!
What: Breast and Prostate Cancer Awareness Day
When: 24th November, 2024, 10am
Where: Proserpine Golf Club
Come support Prostate and Breast Cancer Awareness day
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