By Hannah McNamara

Rosemarry Waldon, a 14-year-old from Mackay, is strutting her way to pageantry stardom, leaving a trail of glitter and grace with Brooke Lee Modelling & Deportment School.

Her journey began with a dream and a leap into the world of pageantry, competing in Mini Miss Tasmania last year, fuelled by her desire for personal growth and confidence. Starting out a little shy, she was introduced to the spotlight by her modelling teacher Ruby with the help of an insightful seminar, which soon developed Ms Waldon’s passion and purpose for the stage.

Recently, Ms Waldon competed against a diverse group of contestants at a Modelling Competition in Melbourne, where she won the Miss Junior of Australia 2024 title. She was also honoured as a member of the Royal Court for Australia’s Royalty Pageant and earned side awards for Best Social Media, Taxi Design Ambassador and Runner-Up in Popularity and Print Model, showcasing her extreme versatility and appeal.

Although Ms Waldon shines in the world of modelling, she also whole-heartedly values the connections she makes and treasures the friends around her.

“I really enjoy the different people you meet along the journey and the friendships that are formed from just participating in the events.

“I’ve made some wonderful friends and everyone supports each other,” she shares.

Ms Waldon has embraced her unique style, even incorporating balloons into her dress design to spread joy.

“My family has nicknamed me Random Rosemarry because I tinker with my outfits for weeks.

“I even put balloons onto one of my dresses just because I like balloons and how they make people smile.

“The outcome I believe was fantastic…very random me!”

With a humble heart, she recalls some of her most memorable moments, which includes fundraising for the Cancer Council and engaging with local communities.

“I was invited to travel up to Townsville and meet patients in the Cancer Council Queensland Gluyas Rotary Lodge.

“I absolutely loved the feeling of being able to help and support others in time of need.”

These experiences, such as creating origami daffodils for elderly residents, have left her with some remarkable memories, all while addressing the importance of giving back and connecting with others.

“I really hope that others can follow my pageantry journey and then become inspired to try new things in life.”

Ms Waldon’s future plans include representing Australia in the Universal International Miss Title competition in America and pursuing a career as a veterinarian.

“I adore animals and would use my caring nature to help animals when they are unwell.”

Her involvement with Brooke Lee Modelling & Deportment School has not only surpassed her modelling skills but also strengthened her confidence and resilience.

“I aim to inspire others that no matter where you come from or your background, if you are passionate and committed, great things can be achieved.”

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14-year-old Rosemarry Waldon is excelling in the world of pageantry, showcasing remarkable confidence and talent as she inspires and encourages others to do the same. Photos supplied

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By Amanda Wright

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At just 16 years old, Emersen Lamb is already taking the pageant world by storm. Crowned Miss Teen of Australia at the prestigious Australia’s Royalty Pageant in Melbourne, Emersen’s rise to the top is a dazzling mix of hard work, resilience, and undeniable charm. From winning her first major pageant in 2022 to visiting New York, Milan, and Paris for Fashion Week, this young model is proving that she’s more than ready for the international spotlight.
“Winning feels surreal, It’s a mix of overwhelming joy, pride, and gratitude,” Ms Lamb said.
“Standing there as the winner felt like a dream come true. It’s not just about the title—it’s about the journey, the growth.
“Personally, it’s a symbol of resilience, growth, and believing in myself.”
Ms Lamb’s modelling journey began four years ago with Brooke Lee Modelling, where she first fell in love with the world of fashion and pageantry. Her debut competition came in 2022 when she entered the Miss Diamond International Pageant and won the Junior Teen division. That victory sparked a passion for the stage, pushing her to pursue even bigger dreams.
Last year, Ms Lamb’s talents took her overseas with Australian designer Belle Le Chic, where she walked in the iconic Fashion Weeks of New York, Milan, and Paris.
“Walking in those cities was beyond incredible,” Ms Lamb said.
“I even had the surreal experience of seeing myself on billboards in New York. It was a month-long trip, and we also visited Greece and Venice. It was truly life-changing.”
Ms Lamb’s dedication to the Miss Teen of Australia pageant began last November. For nine months, she balanced community involvement, fundraising, and intense competition preparation.
“It was a strong nine months of commitment,” Ms Lamb explained.
“One of my highlights was organising a charity golf day, where we raised over $3,000 for several causes, including the Starlight Children’s Foundation and Ronald McDonald House Charity Mackay.”
Throughout the three-day pageant, Ms Lamb impressed judges in every category, from the Preliminary Interview to the Fun Fashion and Evening Gown rounds. She also delivered a powerful onstage speech during the Spokesmodel segment. In addition to her national title, she collected six side awards, including Miss Rising Star and Australia’s Runway Model.
“Winning felt like the culmination of all the hard work and growth I’ve experienced,” Ms Lamb said.
“It’s a reminder that when you work hard and stay true to who you are, incredible things can happen.”
Brooke Hargrave, Director of Brooke Lee Modelling, expressed her pride in Emersen’s success.
“Watching Emersen exude so much grace on stage fills me with pride,” Ms Hargrave said.
“She has always shown immense potential, and it’s rewarding to see her rise to these heights.”
Looking ahead, Ms Lamb is set to represent Australia at the Ultimate International Miss competition in Virginia, USA, next August.
“I’m filled with so much pride and honour,” she said.
“To be the first Mackay Teen to win Miss Teen of Australia and now compete internationally is a dream come true. I absolutely can’t wait for this next chapter of my journey.”

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A Mackay student was recently honoured for her inventive talent at the Independent Education Union – Queensland and Northern Territory (IEU-QNT) Excellence in Art and Design Awards.  

Year 11 student, Ernestine Hankin from Kutta Mulla Gorinna School in Mackay was recognised with an Award of Excellence in the First Nations category for her artwork, titled Leaving the Nest.

Art and Design Awards reviewer Donna Hensen recognised the creativity behind the artwork and said that Ernestine’s piece stood out.

“The piece contains amazing representation of the difficulties of growing up and navigating others,” Donna said.

The judges praised Ernestine along with Art Teacher Melissa Larsen who noted “what a great achievement it is,” hoping that “it is an encouragement for her to pursue her career goal of becoming an artist,” a spokesperson from Kutta Mulla Gorinna School said.

The presentation was held at the Queensland Multicultural Centre in Brisbane, where Awardees’ artworks were displayed in an exhibition and recipients were presented with certificates and a cash prize.

The annual Art Awards was established in 1994 to promote and encourage artistic students and celebrate their flair for creativity.

A First Nations category was first introduced in 2017 to provide specific recognition to First Nations entrants and their custodianship of the land.

IEU-QNT Branch Secretary Terry Burke said the reviewers were wowed by the quality of the over 600 submissions across all age groups in response to the 2024 theme of ‘Growing Up’.

“The reviewers commented on the high standard of entries and the varied and creative interpretations that entrants brought to this year’s theme,” Mr Burke said.

“Our union established the Awards to promote and encourage artistic students and celebrate their flair for creativity.

“Art is a very important area of learning in schools, and IEU-QNT is proud to support the artistic talent of students and staff in the Queensland and Northern Territory non-government sector,” he said.

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Ernestine Hankin with Art Teacher Melissa Larsen from Kutta Mulla Gorinna School in Mackay won the Award of Excellence in the First Nations category for her masterpiece titled ‘Leaving the Nest’. Photo supplied

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By Amanda Wright

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From the tiny rural community of Septimus, where his school once had only three students in a class, local author Earl Neilsen has crafted a magical story that captures the heart of his childhood. His debut children's book is not just a blend of fun and rhyme, but a celebration of embracing uniqueness and resilience—a reflection of the country upbringing that shaped him.
Growing up in the Pioneer Valley, Earl fondly recalls a community where larrikins were the storytellers, and everyone had a legendary nickname.
"Pumpkin, Plugger—everyone had one. Embracing being a country bumkin became a big part of who I am," Earl said.
That country spirit inspired his persona, Bumkin, the beloved children's entertainer and songwriter who delighted young audiences for more than 20 years.
Earl's love for entertainment started early, in the country school too small to even form a cricket team.
"We had to do it all. One day we'd be playing rugby league, and the next, we'd be doing gymnastics. Boys would pirouette, and girls would run with the footy," he laughed, noting how the blended curriculum nurtured talents like his for song and dance.
It wasn't until he took part in a dance school production of Grease that Earl truly caught the performing bug.
"That adrenalin rush of being on stage—it never goes away," he said.
After graduating from Mirani State High where he was the school captain, Earl's passion for performing took him across the globe, where he entertained children at summer camps in the U.S. and met his wife, Stephanie, during a time of uncertainty following the 9/11 attacks.
Earl vividly remembers the day the world changed. He was set to leave for a Contiki tour in the UK when the tragic events of 9/11 unfolded.
"I was stuck in Chicago, and it was surreal. Cars were lining up at petrol stations, and no one knew what would happen next," he recalled.
Flights were grounded, leaving Earl with no choice but to return to the summer camp where he had been performing. It was during this unexpected extension of his stay that he grew closer to Stephanie, the camp leader who would later become his wife. What could have been a harrowing time turned into a life-changing chapter for the couple.
He returned to Australia and knew it was where he wanted to continue his life with Stephanie.
"Traveling to different parts of the world made me appreciate the Pioneer Valley even more. It's where I knew I wanted to start my family," Earl said.
Today, from his home near Teemburra Dam, he channels his childhood memories and love for the arts into his storytelling, the culmination of which is his new book, a heartwarming tale about a dancing barramundi called Barrarina.
The story, brimming with humour, resilience, and even a touch of fish biology, follows a young male barramundi who is teased for his love of dance. Earl weaves a tale as intricate as the dance the barra performs on the end of a fishing line, flipping and twirling in a way that mirrors the grace of a ballet. Each movement of the fish is like a pirouette, as it glides through the water with a rhythm only nature can provide.
Barrarina’s journey is about more than just dance—it's about resilience, embracing uniqueness, and turning what makes you different into your greatest strength. Taunted for his love of dance, Barrarina finds wisdom in the advice of an old platypus, who encourages him to embrace his talent. In the end, this very talent saves his life, transforming him into a legend of the pond.
"Own your difference," Earl said. "It doesn't matter what it is that makes you unique, own it." This powerful message is the heart of the book, and one Earl hopes will resonate with readers of all ages.
The book, filled with Earl’s signature watercolour illustrations and clever local references which adults will also enjoy, has been praised for its positive messages for children and adults alike.
“It’s for everyone who needs a reminder to embrace who they are,” he said.
Barrarina is available locally at the Badila Art and Craft Centre in Pinnacle, Let the Children Play toy shop in Mackay, and online at ejneilsen.com.au
Earl's story is one for all to enjoy, dedicated to his sons, Eli and Ewan, and supported by his wife, Stephanie.
With a mantra like "Keep on dancing," his message is clear—embrace the dance of life, no matter how different your steps may be.

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Barrarina possibly became the ‘highest’ selling children’s book when Earl’s friend took it to the top of Mt Dalrymple. Photos supplied
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Author Earl Neilsen with his sons, Eli and Ewan with Earl’s first children’s book, Barrarina

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The Trudy Crowley Foundation has further cemented their legacy for cancer support and care in the Mackay community, by announcing Levi Crowley as a newly appointed director at the recent Touch of Teal Soiree.

Founded in 2018 by Jacquie and Charles Camilleri, the Trudy Crowley Foundation was named in honour of local Mackay Mum Trudy Crowley, who was diagnosed in 2016 with ovarian cancer.

When Trudy passed in 2018, the Foundation had just commenced – with Trudy’s husband Damian as one of the directors since 2019.

Founder Jacquie Camilleri said that announcing Levi’s appointment to the Board at their biggest event of the year “gave us even more reason to celebrate”.

“Levi worked as a volunteer for the Foundation, before his appointment to the Board, and is a dedicated, committed and energetic young man – so much like his Mum,” Ms Camilleri said.

“Establishing the Trudy Crowley Community Cancer Support Centre was a massive milestone for us, and bringing Levi onto the Board is another step in ensuring Trudy’s legacy is felt in our Mackay community for many years to come.

“Trudy always said that she didn’t want anyone experiencing cancer to walk the journey alone, and we are committed to making sure her dream comes true now, and into the future.”

The 2024 Touch of Teal Soiree was attended by over 300 people, and raised $78,419.08 in net profit.

Like all donations and fundraising for the Foundation, the funds will be invested locally in the Mackay and Greater Whitsundays communities to benefit any person undergoing cancer treatment, and their families. As part of this commitment, no Trudy Crowley Foundation Board member receives remuneration – it is 100 per cent volunteer-based.

“All the money we raise and everything that is donated to us goes to supporting local people who are going through cancer. Thanks to our community and, of course, our gorgeous Trudes – no one in Mackay needs to go through cancer alone.”

To find out more about the Trudy Crowley Foundation or donate, visit www.trudycrowleyfoundation.com.au.

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Levi Crowley was announced as a newly appointed director of the Trudy Crowley Foundation at the 2024 Touch of Teal Soiree. Photo credit: Liz Andrews Photography

Levi Crowley holds one of the popular auction items which contributed to more than $78,000 in net profit being raised at this year’s fundraising event

The late Trudy Crowley’s husband Damian has been a director of the Trudy Crowley Foundation since 2019

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Younger readers won’t know about this but there was a time, in the years before we so warmly and thankfully embraced political correctness, when people would unashamedly crack jokes about certain groups in society.
They were dark, shameful days in human history and not at all funny.
There were jokes about Scotsmen, Kiwis (particularly in relation to sheep), old people, young people, blondes, sporting teams, various religious groups, all sorts of professions … the disgraceful list goes on.
And one of the worst aspects of those ugly days was that the jokes would perpetuate certain stereotypes about particular groups. If there was an Aussie, an American and an Irishmen at a bar, the punchline would always suggest that the Irishman was stupid. Cruel and unwarranted.
In these more modern times we don’t get to laugh much but, thankfully, we don’t have to hear jokes and stories that reinforce unfair stereotypes.
Which is why I am so reluctant to raise this story about car salesmen and reinforce the “myth” that they are dodgy. Some might think that, as a real estate agent, I am kicking the one group I can get away with picking on. But that’s not true ... I could also pick on politicians.
Anyway, I’ve got a good mate who’s a car salesman and he once told me about the tried and true strategy for forcing a sale when a male buyer has a look at a car but hasn’t brought his wife to the car yard.
It goes like this. The bloke looks at a car and takes it for a drive and loves it. The salesman knows he wants it.
But then the bloke says: “Yeah, well it’s a nice car and I’m pretty interested. I’ll just talk to the missus and get back to you.”
Salesman: “What if she says no?”  Buyer: “Well, she won’t say no … it’s up to me, it’ll be my car.”  Salesman: “Okay, it sounds like you don’t need to wait for permission. You can have it today. Let’s do the deal.”
The scenario would certainly be a lot easier for a car salesman than a real estate agent. It would be a bit of a stretch to apply the same tactic to a house.
But the truth is that the last thing I want is to have a buyer who is not 100 per cent committed to the property. And I want the partner, whether that’s a husband or wife, to also be on side because that is the best recipe for a smooth transition to the new owner.
After a property has gone under contract there is a five-day cooling-off period when the buyer can change their mind (in fairness to car salesmen I think they have a similar clause in their contracts).
There is usually a building and pest report that needs to be accepted by the buyer and a finance clause to be satisfied. Sometimes there are other clauses in relation to council approvals or rental appraisals that are included in the contract.
What that all means is that you certainly don’t want someone to be unsure about the property they have just put under contract. You want everyone involved to be fully on board so that if a few obstacles appear along the way they can be overcome.
A real estate agent’s job is to ensure they do everything they can to get the best price for a property and that is about creating competition among buyers. It does not involve conjuring up a sale in a way that will ultimately jeopardise the contract going through.
Speaking of cars, I recently bought a new car but I haven’t sold my old Toyota Aurion yet.
Look, I like your face, I like your face. Tell ya what I’m gonna do …

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Getting ready to buy your first house? Does the beautiful Whitsundays or Scenic Mackay look like the right place for your next home? Here are all the tips you need to navigate what some people call the most important purchase you will make.
Evaluate your financial situation... are you ready to buy a home?
Ensuring you have the financial means to purchase your first home is crucial in the home-buying process. Start by assessing your budget: review your income, savings, and expenses to determine what you can afford. Additionally, calculate your debt-to-income ratio (DTI) to ensure it aligns with lending requirements.
In evaluating your financial situation, don't overlook your credit score. A strong score can provide you with better mortgage rates alongside increased opportunities. Checking your score before starting the home-buying process allows you to take steps to improve it if necessary.
Mortgage Minefield
When looking at mortgage options and advisors, it is always best to shop before you buy. With a variety of loan options available, finding one that best fits your needs is essential.
After selecting your preferred mortgage route, the next step is to get pre-approved. This process not only strengthens your position in a competitive housing market but also provides a clearer picture of your budget.
The fun part...creating a wish list!
After navigating the mortgage maze, it's time for the exciting part – crafting your wish list for your new home!
I'm sure you have pictured or even dreamt about what your first home might look like, but now it is time to make it a reality. What are your must-haves? Consider factors like size, location, and number of bedrooms. Is the property close to a good school? Is it easy commute to work? These are all the questions you should be asking ahead of the big buy!
Find a trusty real estate agent
Finding a good real estate agent allows for a more seamless homebuying experience. The agents can assist with the paperwork, guide you through every step of the transaction and make sure you understand all the tricky terms and conditions.
Trusty real estate agent secured? Let the house hunting begin. Remember to write yourself a comprehensive description of each house and take photos to help them stick in the forefront of your mind when navigating numerous properties.
Dream home found?
You’ve found your dream home—congratulations! What’s next?
It’s now time to make an offer! Don’t go through this process alone; collaborate closely with your real estate agent to enhance your chances of securing the property. Approach your offers with confidence and be ready for any counter-offers that may arise.
Once you have placed your offer, ensure you schedule a professional home inspection, to uncover any issues with the property you might not have considered.
Finalise Finances and Secure your property!
Now it's time to finalise your mortgage and sign the paperwork for your dream first home. The hard work is done, you can now start decorating!

Common pitfalls for first-time buyers to avoid:
   1. Letting your emotions rule the roost: buying your first home can be a stressful and lead to impulsive decisions. While buying your first home can be exciting and overwhelming, try to stay calm to avoid making decisions based on aesthetics.
   2. Overstretching your budget: While it may be easy to say ‘we can afford a little more,’ it's a slippery slope. Your dream home within your budget is waiting for you!
   3. Forgetting the hidden costs: The purchase price is just the beginning. Be sure to factor in additional expenses such as the deposit, transfer fees, mortgage registration fees, loan application fees, ongoing costs, lender's mortgage insurance, and conveyancing legal fees. Make a comprehensive budget to avoid any financial surprises.

Happy buying!

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The names of the two new Labor candidates were revealed today by Premier for Queensland Steven Miles who came to Mackay to make the formal announcement.

Dr Bauke Hovinga, an emergency Doctor at Mackay Base Hospital, has been named as the candidate for the seat of the Whitsundays.

He will go up against current Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP who was voted into the seat in 2020 following her success in winning the seat against Labor candidate Angie Kelly in a close margin of less that 100 first preference votes.

Meanwhile, social worker Susan Teder has been announced as the Labor candidate for the Mirani seat.

She will vie for the position against current Member for Mirani Stephen Andrew who is now in his second term, having beat Labor candidate Shane Hamilton in 2020 last State election.

This news comes as the election race begins to heat up and candidates begin their campaigns for the upcoming State election which is due to take place on 26th October.

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The tragic death toll in our region has sadly risen again this week following a road accident on Sunday evening that claimed the life of a 22-year-old woman.

On Sunday 15 September at 5pm a 61-year-old Bowen man was travelling in a silver Rodeo North on the Bruce Highway, and in the initial police investigation, it appears to have veered onto the wrong side of the road.

The silver Rodeo collided head on with a black BMW, driven by a 22-year-old female who tragically lost her life as a result to the traffic crash.

The 61-year-old male is in critical condition at Mackay Based Hospital.

It is believed the female was traveling from Townsville to her residence in Mackay, and the male was returning to Bowen from the Nebo area.

The Queensland Police forensic crash unit conducted an investigation on-scene but now need to conduct follow up investigations before a conclusion is drawn.

Whilst the initial investigation took place, the Bruce Highway was closed and emergency services put a diversion in place with assistance from the Whitsunday Regional Council.

So far this year there have been 13 fatalities on the road in the Mackay and Whitsunday region, resulting in 17 people losing their lives.

Inspector Glenn Cameron said, “It is tragic circumstances and that’s why we are imploring with every member of the public, drive to the conditions, drive to your own conditions, be safe on the road we want to see people get to their destination safely.”

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Wilmar Workers' Pay Dispute Comes To An End

In a decisive turn of events, the long-standing and contentious pay dispute between Wilmar Sugar and its employees has finally reached a resolution, paving the way for significant wage increases and bonuses. Growers can now breathe a sigh of relief, as the resolution ensures that the threat of disruptive industrial action will no longer jeopardise their crucial crops.

A majority of Wilmar Sugar and Renewables employees has voted in favour of a new enterprise agreement (EA) offering an upfront $2,500 bonus and 16 per cent in wage rises. Fifty-five per cent of eligible employees who participated in the ballot voted in favour of the company’s three-year offer.

The two-day ballot closed at 3pm today. The majority yes vote means more than 1,320 employees will receive the bonus and a 12 per cent increase in pay by Christmas, with a further 4 per cent increase next December.

A company spokesman said the positive ballot result brings to a close a challenging and long-running negotiation and associated disruptive industrial action.

“We thank everybody who participated in the ballot, particularly those who voted to accept the company offer,” he said.

“It draws a line under a period that impacted not only our business and our people, but the growers and harvesting operators who are so critical to the sugar supply chain.

“The focus now is on getting this year’s crop harvested and producing high-quality sugar for customers in domestic and export markets.”

CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens has urged Queensland’s sugarcane industry to pull together, following the resolution of the long-running pay dispute between Wilmar Sugar and three unions representing mill workers.

Workers at the company’s nine Queensland sugar mills voted over the past 48 hours to accept a new Enterprise Agreement put forward by Wilmar Sugar and Renewables last week.

“It’s great to have this issue finally resolved in a way that is acceptable to both the workers and the mill,” Mr Menkens said.

“It has dragged on for far too long, has delayed cane crushing across half of the industry, and caused great anxiety to growers and harvesting contractors, so to see an agreement finally in place is a tremendous relief.

“Now it’s time to put it behind us, and for the entire industry to come together, support our mill workers and our contractors, and put our shoulders to the wheel so we can make the 2024 season a success.

“Let’s crush it between now and December.”

As of today, Wilmar’s eight factories have processed about 6.3M tonnes of sugarcane, representing about 40 per cent of the estimated crop.

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Police have charged a 29-year-old Bowen man following a fatal hit-and-run traffic crash that happened in Bowen in July.
Emergency crews were called to the intersection of Bootooloo Road and Wheelers Lane on Thursday, July 25, after a cyclist was located on the roadway by a passing motorist at 4.42am.
The male cyclist, a 69-year-old Bowen man, was declared deceased at the scene.
The cyclist was struck by a vehicle, which had failed to remain at the scene.
Following extensive investigations, the driver has now been charged.
Police will allege the 29-year-old Bowen man was the driver of the vehicle that struck the cyclist.
He has been charged with one count of dangerous operation of a vehicle causing death or grievous bodily harm and left the scene of incident without obtaining help.
He is due to appear before Bowen Magistrates Court on October 1.

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Mayor Ry Collins is hosting his first Mayor’s Charity Ball on September 21, with a new and exciting addition to the evening set to dazzle the audience with a special ‘After Dark’ party experience.

For the first time ever, guests can decide whether they want to indulge in the decadent Gala Dinner which includes a gourmet three course meal, or would prefer to delight in the ‘After Dark Experience’, where the party atmosphere encourages everybody to dance the night away.

Mayor’s Ball Boasts New Addition . . . And We’re All invited!

A special ‘After Dark Experience’ is set to reach high in the sky and become a stilted affair where fire twirls and the night’s sky is aflame with colour and passion.

Dare to join the ‘After Dark Experience’ and prepare to be mesmerised by the enigmatic performances of some of the country’s most skilled entertainers, brought to the Whitsundays for one night only.

Shrouded in mystery to keep the full show a surprise, Whitsunday Regional Council have released a few slices of information to get the community excited about what is in store.

The ‘After Dark Experience’ tickets give you entry to a special surprise show, plus so much more!

The night begins with a touch of elegance as guests receive a glass of champagne on arrival, followed by exquisite bites of gourmet canapés that delight the senses.

The bar is open all night long, with unlimited beer, wine and cider from 8pm to midnight,

You’ll be dancing all night with live music by 1RAR Band and DJ Cue – enjoy incredible live performances and top-notch DJ sets.

Get involved with the fun charity activities including the charity Wine Tree and Mystery Reveal where you can discover hidden surprises.

This is followed by the Special Entertainment - be surprised by a thrilling, exclusive performance that will dazzle and delight!

The night hits its final crescendo with a fireworks grand finale that’ll light up the sky.

Mayor Collins has chosen not one, but two incredible local charities for the Ball to support this year, with proceeds of the event going to BMA CQ Rescue and the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network.

BMA CQ Rescue is a community funded service that has been providing a critical, lifesaving service to visitors and residents across the Whitsunday Region for over 27 years.

Meanwhile, the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN) works tirelessly to provide support, education and intervention to prevent suicide and offer hope to those struggling with mental health issues.

Mayor Collins has also expressed his gratitude to platinum sponsors and event partners Hillery Group, Abbot Point Operations and Airlie Beach Hotel for their support.

"Without the generosity and support of our sponsors, this event to raise valuable funds for our two charities would not have been possible,” he said.

"The sponsors commitment to our community and willingness to support this cause have made a real difference."

"We are incredibly fortunate to have such dedicated partners who share our vision of making our Whitsundays a better place for everyone.”

WHAT: Mayor’s Charity Ball
WHERE: Proserpine Entertainment Centre
WHEN: Saturday 21st September
TICKETS: Gala Event: $295
After Dark Experience: $150

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Hi Everyone,

Last weekend I had the most fabulous time at the Whitsundays Writers Festival, and it was truly an event I’ll remember forever.

From my mum using the f-word when performing her poem ‘Don’t Let The Old Lady In” at the Poetry Karaoke evening, to having a lively conversation with New York Times Best Selling Author, Sally Hepworth – the whole weekend was magical!

I met too many inspiring people to count, formed connections from all over the country and locally I heard there could even be a new writers group formed as a result of the event.

Well done to the organisers, volunteers and committee members who brought this amazing event back to the community, I hope it continues for years to come.

Changing pace now, I wanted mention the recent assaults that took place at the public toilets on Cannonvale Beach.

As many of you would know, I live very close by and, when I heard one of the attacks occurred 200 metres away from where I had been sleeping just five minutes before my alarm went off, I felt deeply distressed.

Not only had I been unable to help the poor lady, I had also been very close to a dangerous criminal.

I felt even more distressed when our journalist, Ruth Puddefoot, informed me this was the second incident where a woman had been assaulted in the same location, just days apart.

Fortunately, a man had been arrested and we hope is now off the streets, but I couldn’t help but think that if we had been alerted to the danger and informed of the first incident, then the second assault could have been prevented.

Two lady’s lives have been changed forever because of these assaults, but if the community knew about the first incident, I can’t help think that people could have been aware to use more caution and be on the lookout.

If the newspaper can help alert the community to a crime, we will.

If anyone wishes to inform us of an assault, we will contact the police for an official statement and then publish a community alert with accurate information.

Rach

Quote of the Week: “No pressure, no diamonds” (Thomas Carlyle)

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In April this year Michelle Wardrope fell over on her driveway, resulting in her needing six stitches for the gash on her knee.

At the time, she had no idea this small fall was the start of an event that would nearly see her lose her life.

After the fall she travelled to hospital for stitches, however, she returned to hospital shortly after waking in her sleep with immense pain in her leg. Michelle’s health quickly deteriorated and was told she had contracted a soil-borne bacterial infection and only had a 2% chance of survival.

In less than 72 hours, the majority of Michelle's leg had to be removed, and eventually, the amputation extended further, removing her leg from the hip down.

Michelle had contracted a soil-borne bacterial infection from runoff streaming down the hill from the vegetation above their house and onto the driveway, where she had cut her leg.

This type of infection is extremely rare and extremely life-threatening, with doctors informing her that most people do not survive the first 48 hours.

Michelle knows she was very lucky to survive, but the journey was not over there, she has had to get accustomed to life with only one leg.

For the past few months, she has also had to live with a stoma, something she found uncomfortable.

Fortunately, this week the stoma was reversed representing one more step to the slow recovery to a ‘new normal’ for Michelle and her family.

Instead of self-pity, however, Michelle has demonstrated immense gratitude throughout the journey and most of this has been directed to the local community who she says has buoyed her recovery.

After coming out of the recent operation she offered her thanks again, proving how each well wish is a Good Deed in a small highly connected community like ours.

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Another year and another spectacular weekend at the St. Bebida’s White on Whitehaven Long Table Lunch.

Hosted by Fish D’vine, a spectacular array of fresh local seafood and sumptuous sizzling meats was served alongside crunchy salads and washed down with an array of first-class beverages.

Everyone had a wonderful time soaking in the sun and taking a dip in the refreshing turquoise waters of Whitehaven Beach.

Co-owner of Fish D’Vine Kev Collins had a great day serving everyone delicious food and offering special in-water service.

“White on Whitehaven is really about showcasing the very best of the Whitsundays7,” expressed Kev.

“Many guests come every year but a lot will come just once, to truly tick off a bucket list.

“Thanks to the hard work of so many individuals and so many supportive businesses and suppliers, we make this event look easy! We think of ourselves as the custodians of an iconic event, not the owners.

“White On Whitehaven is stamping itself as potentially the most famous long lunch in Australia and will ultimately be our company’s legacy.”

See you there next year!

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Kev Collins, co-owner of Fish D’vine with his wife Katelyn. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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