The closure of the Caneland Central Post Office has sparked confusion and disbelief across the region, with residents and community leaders describing the move as short-sighted and totally unfair.

Federal Member for Dawson and Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability Andrew Willcox said he was advised the branch will shut its doors on 18 July, without any public consultation or clear reasoning from Australia Post.

“We don’t have an explanation, but it’s a decision made by some faceless, nameless person down south who doesn’t understand the impact this will have on local residents,” Mr Willcox said.

“The people most affected are the most vulnerable – our elderly, people with disabilities, young people without transport. We don’t have the public transport networks like the city. People down south just don’t get it.”

He said his office had already received dozens of calls and emails from concerned locals.

“This is more than just a post office, it’s a vital service for the community of Mackay and
surrounds.

“For many locals, especially older residents and those who are living with a disability, it’s their only practical way to access mail, pay bills, and stay connected,” he said.

“This is another attack on rural and regional Australia, and it’s simply not good enough.”

Long-time Mackay local Margaret Edwards, who represents a local seniors group with over 400 members, said many people had reached out to her in frustration.

“Mums and bubs, people with disabilities — they’re all affected by this closure,” she said.

“Canelands is the biggest shopping centre in the Mackay region — I’m sure of that — and now it won’t have a post office? It makes no sense.”

“Transport’s a big issue. Not everyone has a car. You’re talking taxis, buses, Uber, community transport — that’s an extra cost to them, or to us, the taxpayers.”

“I buy things there, post things there — now I’ve got to go somewhere else. It’s disgraceful. The worst decision anyone could’ve made.”

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The sudden decision to close the Caneland Central Post Office on 18 July has been slammed as “disgraceful,” with locals and leaders outraged over the lack of consultation and the impact on Mackay’s most vulnerable residents. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Honouring History, Celebrating Service

By Cr Heath Paton

As a councillor, who was born and raised here in Mackay, it is important to me to not only aid in the growth of our region but also protect and promote our vast catalogue of past accomplishments.

Mackay has such a wealth of history and accolades, and it’s imperative for a region to acknowledge the pillars of our community.

Scattered throughout our footprint are numerous monuments and plaques commemorating events and people who helped shape our community.

It’s no secret that Mackay has a very strong military representation throughout our history and undoubtedly Jubilee Park is perhaps the centrepiece of this history. The park is home to the heritage-listed World War I Cenotaph with monuments for World War II, the 2nd/12th Infantry Battalion and National Serviceman’s Memorial, Vietnam War Memorial and the ANZAC Walk, which displays images from World War I to present day.

It’s exciting to note that Mackay Regional Council are now currently working with Mackay RSL subbranch to create another monument in Jubilee Park, this time to commemorate the veterans who served in the Australian Defence Force from 1975 onwards.

These memorials and plaques at Jubilee Park are more than monuments, they are an opportunity to reflect, educate and bolster community pride.

It’s crucial as a community that we honour those who served for us, and those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation and fellow countrymen.

These historical touchstones link the past to the present and offer opportunities to remember and pay respect – not only on days of great significance such as Anzac Day and Remembrance Day.

Through this collaborative effort we are looking forward to delivering a timeless and fitting monument that our community can be proud of.

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Mackay Careers Expo

Mackay’s Careers Expo is back for its third year, offering an extraordinary opportunity for school leavers, recent graduates, and career-changers to gain invaluable insights into potential career paths.

Held at the Mackay Showgrounds on Thursday 7 August, this free event is a must-attend for anyone looking to launch a new career, upskill, or transition into a different industry.

Explore Endless Opportunities

This year, the expo features an impressive array of exhibitors. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with highly qualified representatives from prestigious organisations, with many offering opportunities across the nation.

The Mackay Careers Expo isn't just for students; it’s an inclusive event that welcomes parents, experienced workers, and anyone considering a career change.

Why Attend?

The current economic climate means more people are gaining an awareness of the importance of gaining new skills or upgrading existing skills, to open opportunities for advancement as one way to combat the rising cost of living.

Here’s what you can expect:

Expert Advice: Get insights from industry leaders on how to apply for courses, the costs involved, financial support options, and the qualifications required.

Career Options: Learn about current career and employment opportunities, trainee and apprenticeship programs, and options for adults to upskill and retrain.

Networking: Connect with professionals and educational providers who can offer guidance and support for your career journey.

The Mackay Careers Expo is an event that no one can afford to miss if they are serious about taking control of their future. Admission to the expo is free, making it accessible to everyone who is keen on making informed career decisions.

This event is more than just a career expo; it’s a gateway to your future.

For more information, visit careersevent.com and click on Mackay Careers Expo.

What: Mackay Careers Expo
When: Thursday 7th August
Where: Mackay Showgrounds
Admission: FREE

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Hi there,

Hope you’re keeping well and enjoying this crisp, cool breeze while it lasts…because let’s be honest, we’ll all be complaining about the humidity again soon!

Did you make it to the show and grab a classic Dagwood dog or a showbag or two?

I popped in on Tuesday, bundled up in a warm coat and boots, bracing for the mud – but to my surprise it wasn’t too bad!

On page 10, you’ll find a beautiful story that reflects what makes our region so special – locals looking after each other, always ready to lend a hand.

And on page 28, I was thrilled to include a mention of local author Kaaren Sephton, who I had the pleasure of interviewing recently. Her book Shining a Light: Women of Mackay, beautifully honours the remarkable women who helped shape our region – many of whom history deemed ‘invisible.’

What stays with me each day is a deep sense of gratitude. So let this be your reminder to pause when you can, enjoy the simple things in life, and never take a single day for granted.

For me, it’s a quiet moment with coffee in hand, or a burst of laughter shared with my husband at the end of a long day.

And if today feels heavy, and you're struggling to find something to be thankful for - remember, that simply waking up this morning is a gift.

Cherish every moment while you can.

“Let all that you do be done in love” – 1 Corinthians 16:14

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The first humpback whales of the season were sighted on Friday 6th June, breaching between Penitecost Island and Suprise Rock, just south of Whitsunday and Hamilton Islands

It’s exciting and we are privileged to have them visit our waters to court, mate, give birth and rear their calves.  This is why the Whitsundays are a Whale Heritage Area.

The whales have to rely on their energy reserves until they return to their feeding ground in the Antarctic. Mothers will already loose a third of their body weight producing milk, feeding and protecting their calf.  If they loose too much weight by not resting enough, both the health of the mother and calf can be compromised.
It’s important to their continued survival that their ‘nurseries’ are free from any harassment.

Everyone using the waters of the Marine Park, have a responsibility to help protect whales and dolphins and to keep safe distances from them.

Interactions are on the whales terms and it’s possible to have amazing experiences still following the regulations.

Anywhere in the GREAT BARRIER REEF MARINE PARK
🐋Prohibited vessels (i.e. jetskis, parasails, hovercraft, hydrofoils, wing-in-ground effect craft and motorised diving aids such as underwater scooters) must not approach closer than ‘300 metres’ to a whale or dolphin.
🐋No vessels can approach within 300 metres of a calf.
🐋Whales and dolphins must not be approached within 30 degrees in front or behind.

When in the WHITSUNDAY WHALE PROTECTION AREA there are some additional rules in relation to whales.

The boundary of the WHALE PROTECTION AREA is the dashed line, which has been highlighted in yellow on the zoning map, or the darker blue area on the other map.

🐋A vessel must not approach closer than ‘300 metres’ to a whale.
🐋Negligible wake within ‘500 metres’ to a whale.
🐋A helicopter must not approach below 2000 feet or within 1000 metres of a whale.

If you are unsure of the Whale Protection Area boundary, please pick up a zoning map from a Marina office.

If you see anyone doing the wrong thing please take photos of the vessel and registration, and report all Marine Park regulation offences to 1800 380 048
or via the Reef Authority website by completing an incident report form:
https://www2.gbrmpa.gov.au/help/report-an-incident

To find out more about special whale events and information on whales in the Whitsundays, join the WHALES OF THE WHITSUNDAYS Facebook page; or go to https://www.whitsundaymarine.org/projects

Contributed by Kellie Leonard, Master Reef Guide/Whales of the Whitsundays

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We have a range of free and exciting children’s activities across our regional libraries for the upcoming school holidays! From craft workshops to storytelling and everything in between,
there’s something for kids of all ages!

Libraries are the perfect place to relax, have fun, and stay connect during the holidays - and membership is always free!
For more information, head to Whitsunday Regional Libraries website.

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Hi Everyone,

Ruth 2 Reef is back after a short break, and I’m thrilled to bring you a special edition packed with exciting environmental stories.

During the pause, I had the incredible opportunity to take part in the Coral Nurture Program which is a brilliant initiative dedicated to coral restoration. Last Sunday, therefore, I spent the day scuba diving and planting new coral on the Great Barrier Reef alongside an amazing team. It was a real pinch me moment, and you can read all about the experience on page 25 of this issue.

In other exciting news, the first whale sightings of the season have been reported right here in the Whitsundays, And if you’re curious about the underwater world, the Whitsunday Conservation Council is sharing fascinating insights into the mating strategies of reef fish.

For those eager to learn even more about the sea, one of my biggest inspirations, David Attenborough, has just released a brand new documentary called Oceans — a fantastic and eye-opening watch!

Happy reading,

Ruth

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What It’s Like to Plant Coral on the Great Barrier Reef

By Ruth Puddefoot

A world icon, Australia’s most treasured natural asset, and a globally recognised wonder, the Great Barrier Reef is renowned for its breathtaking beauty, rich marine life and critical ecological value. However, now that headlines about its health have quietened, what’s really happening beneath the surface?

For years, as a journalist passionate about the environment and marine conservation, it has been my dream to help protect this natural wonder and report on what is really happening. While headlines often bombard us with conflicting opinions about the Reef’s health, I wanted to find out for myself, what is it actually like to be part of a coral restoration project?

On Sunday I volunteered with Coral Nurture Program, as part of their ongoing coral restoration project. The Coral Nurture Program, launched in 2018, is a collaborative effort between tourism operators and scientists to strengthen the Great Barrier Reef’s resilience to environmental change. Rather than aiming to “save the Reef,” the program focuses on supporting high-value reef sites by combining scientific innovation with community-based coral planting. It enhances both ecological health and local stewardship, especially at economically significant locations.

While large-scale reef restoration remains complex and costly, this program aims to "buy time" by maintaining coral cover where it's most needed. Insights gained contribute to broader reef management and future site-specific intervention strategies.

As part of this initiative, I joined an amazing team planting corals to revive reef areas where coral cover had declined. At the same time, we worked hard to protect and nurture vibrant reef sites that are still flourishing.

I was thrilled to be invited by Brent Chatterton, Owner and CEO of Kiana, along with my close friend Augusto Cazón—better known to me as ‘Gus,' who is the dive manager aboard Kiana, one of the select tourism operators nurturing a coral nursery through the Coral Nurture Program. This initiative is funded by the University of Technology Sydney and coordinated by Reef Catchments. We were also joined by fellow diver and Great Barrier Reef Marine Park ranger, Dani Lo Surdo.

For this section of the project we headed to Blue Pearl Bay, a site that has seen a decline in hard coral cover. While the full extent and causes of this decline remain unclear, some reports have suggested a significant reduction, while other research points to recent fluctuations and signs of recovery. The reef has been affected by events such as Cyclone Ului, Cyclone Debbie, and coral bleaching.

Once we arrived at the reef, Gus walked us through the dive plan and explained the intricate process ahead. During the first dive, we carefully removed corals from the nursery and their registered clips, classifying each one by species and photographing them for detailed reporting to the research team. We also cleaned the nursery frames, removing algae that competes with coral for nutrients and space, as well as Drupella which is a coral-eating sea snail.

The second dive took us to a new site in Blue Pearl Bay, where, wearing protective gloves, we planted the corals in their new homes: a damaged section of reef we hope will regenerate and once again thrive with marine life.

It was incredibly encouraging to witness the growth and dedication driving this program’s efforts to preserve such a remarkable natural wonder. A personal highlight for me was watching the fish curiously inspect the newly planted corals as we worked. It was a deeply fulfilling experience that I’ll carry with me for a long time.

The project wrapped up on Monday, 16 June, and throughout the initiative, more than 2,500 new corals were planted at Blue Pearl Bay.

Lets keep the reef GREAT!

How you can help protect the reef:

1. Be a sustainable tourist when visiting the reef: Do not step on/touch the reef and be careful when snorkelling not to hit the reef
2. Reduce your platic use
3. Buy responsibly sourced seafood
4. Educate yourself and others
5. Wear reef safe suncream

https://www.coralnurtureprogram.org/

Coral nursery at Blue Pearl Bay
Coral nursery at Blue Pearl Bay
Ruth Puddefoot planting a coral in its new home
A fish being inquisitive while watching us work
Names of Corals at Blue Pearl Bay
Augusto Cazón and Ruth Puddefoot about to start planting corals
Ruth Puddefoot infront of Coral Nurture Program Sign
Augusto Cazón and Ruth Puddefoot commencing the dive.
Dani Lo Surdo about to begin first dive.
Augusto Cazón and Ruth Puddefoot after finishing the planting process.

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Whitsunday Regional Council has formally adopted the Whitsunday 2030 Economic Development Strategy—a bold and future-focused action plan designed to lead the Whitsunday community forward.

More than just a strategy document, Whitsunday 2030 is a practical roadmap to position the Whitsunday region as a globally competitive, resilient, and vibrant economy delivering results on the ground.

Developed through extensive consultation with local industry, business, government, and the wider community, it outlines 18 targeted actions to be delivered over the next five years—supported by a robust governance framework to ensure accountability and progress.

Replacing the 2022–2025 strategy, this new plan reflects the Whitsundays’ current and emerging opportunities, challenges, and priorities.

Mayor Ry Collins said the adoption of the strategy comes at a pivotal point in the region’s growth story, providing a clear and practical path for delivering tangible results that local communities will see and feel on the ground.

“The Whitsundays has experienced record population growth in recent years, and with the 2032 Olympic sailing events on the horizon, it’s vital that we have a plan to guide investment, development and opportunity,” he said.

“Whitsunday 2030 puts us in the driver’s seat when it comes to shaping our economic future.

It ensures we’re not just reacting to growth—we’re planning for it and making it happen.”

The strategy is structured around three core pillars:

Strategic Investment – attracting investment into priority sectors and precincts.

Business and Employment Growth – building workforce capacity and supporting local enterprise.

Prosperous Places – enhancing liveability, supporting tourism growth and preparing for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic sailing events.

Council’s Manager Investment and Growth Paul Hanlon said the strategy reflects Council’s commitment to proactive, place-based planning.

“From supporting housing and training for essential workers to unlocking new investment in tourism, advanced manufacturing, agriculture and more—this plan is about creating real opportunities for our people, businesses, and future generations,” he said.

“We’re a region with incredible potential, and Whitsunday 2030 gives us the tools to unlock it.

“The Whitsundays is open for business, and we’re ready to partner with investors, employers and all levels of government to grow our economy in a sustainable and strategic way.”

The adoption of the strategy follows significant engagement led by Council’s Economic Development team, ensuring the priorities of local stakeholders and community members were central to its development.

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A major upgrade to the Collinsville Aerodrome has been completed, with the Whitsunday Regional Council delivering significant improvements that will enhance safety, reliability, and access for aeromedical services and other essential air operations.

The project, delivered in partnership with the State and Federal Governments, involved a full suite of airside and infrastructure upgrades to bring the regional aerodrome up to modern operational standards.

Works included the installation of a new fauna-proof perimeter fence and secure vehicle gates to strengthen airside safety, as well as the reshaping, strengthening, and sealing of the central 18 metres of the previously gravel runway.

New LED lighting was also installed throughout the airfield, including ground lighting re-spaced to 60-metre intervals, upgraded apron flood lighting, and a new illuminated wind direction indicator.

A replacement pilot-activated lighting system and lighting control cubicle were also installed, along with a dedicated pathway linking the terminal to the apron to assist with stretcher transfers.

Whitsunday Regional Council Director of Commercial Operations, Craig Turner, said the upgrades represented a major win for Collinsville and the broader northern region.

“The works completed at Collinsville Aerodrome are a fantastic example of what can be achieved when local government works hand-in-hand with State and Commonwealth partners,” he said.

“These upgrades not only enhance operational safety for all users but provide a significant benefit to aeromedical services such as the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS), which relies on dependable airstrips to deliver life-saving care.”

Division 4 Councillor Michelle Wright said the upgraded facility was a win for Collinsville and a direct result of strong community advocacy.

“This was one of the top priorities I heard from residents when I was first elected and I’ve fought hard to make sure it stayed on the agenda,” Cr Wright said.

“I’m incredibly proud to see this major upgrade delivered on time and under budget after 14 months of dedicated work. It’s a big step forward for Collinsville.

“Whether it’s supporting emergency medical retrievals, enabling safe charter flights, or preparing for future economic opportunities, the aerodrome now meets the standard our community deserves.

“Council is proud to have delivered this project, and I’ll continue pushing for the infrastructure our region needs to thrive,” Cr Wright said.

The Royal Flying Doctor Service (Queensland Section) also welcomed the improvements, describing the Collinsville Aerodrome as a vital part of their emergency response capability.

“The Royal Flying Doctor Service (Queensland Section) recognises the Collinsville Aerodrome as a lifeline for the local community, ensuring timely access to essential healthcare and life-saving aeromedical retrievals,” said Clayton Nankivell, Head of Flying Operations.

“We sincerely thank the Whitsunday Regional Council, along with the State and Federal Governments, for their support and investment in vital runway upgrades that will enable us to continue delivering care when it’s needed most.”

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The upgraded Collinsville Aerodrome is now equipped with a new illuminated wind direction indicator, a new fauna-proof perimeter fence and a newly sealed 18 metre runway. Photos supplied

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The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry has today released the full program for the 2025 Whitsunday Business Conference — a flagship event designed to inspire, inform, and connect the region’s business leaders, operators, and entrepreneurs.

Held as a full-day conference in Cannonvale, the program showcases an impressive lineup of keynote speakers, industry panels, practical sessions, and networking opportunities tailored to the needs of the Whitsunday business community.

Mayor Ry Collins will officially open the event, including a major announcement confirming Whitsunday Regional Council’s formal commitment as a Small Business Friendly Council, reinforcing the region’s dedication to creating a more supportive environment for local enterprise.

Leading the day’s discussions is acclaimed business coach Judy Porter from Shiift, delivering the keynote address Get Out of Your Own Way — a call to action for business owners and leaders to step into their potential and drive purposeful growth.

A feature panel discussion, Working Better Together – From Vision to Impact, will bring together regional leaders to explore how collaboration is delivering real outcomes in infrastructure, housing, investment, and community development. Panellists include Elizabeth Hackett (Whitsunday Skyway), Terry Archer (Whitsunday Sailing Club), Justin Butler (Club Whitsunday), and Carol Norris (Greater Whitsunday Communities).

A networking segment will follow — Get Connected: Who’s Here to Help Your Business? — that will provide businesses with direct access to regional agencies and programs offering growth and support solutions.

Throughout the day, attendees will participate in four streams of concurrent sessions covering essential topics such as leadership, finance, workforce growth, marketing, customer service, digital innovation, and community partnerships.

A networking segment titled Get Connected: Who’s Here to Help Your Business? will provide businesses with direct access to regional agencies and programs offering growth and support solutions.

The conference will close with an energising plenary, Power Up: What’s Next for Your Business?, a motivational finale focused on next steps and sustaining business momentum.

The 2025 Whitsunday Business Conference promises to be an unmissable event for anyone seeking practical knowledge, strategic insight, and meaningful business connections.

What: The 2025 Whitsunday Business Conference
When: 9am-5pm Thursday 28 August 2025
Where: TAFE Queensland Whitsunday campus, Cannonvale
Registration: Via the Chamber's website.

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Zephyr is a sweet and gentle boy who has already overcome so much. He was rescued from a remote pound in Kowanyama and made an incredible 1,279-kilometre journey to safety. Now in foster care, he is slowly gaining confidence and learning to enjoy the comforts of home life.

Zephyr has a lovely, submissive nature and gets along well with other dogs. He doesn’t need much in life – just a comfortable couch, a safe environment and a family willing to give him the love and patience he deserves.

Zephyr enjoys:
• Staying home and relaxing on the couch
• Lounging around all day
• The company of other dogs
• Being near his people, though he is also content to sleep while you are at work

Zephyr would thrive in a calm, kind household with people who are happy to take things slow and help him build trust, especially with men. He is recovering from heartworm treatment and will need gentle lead training once he is ready.

The adoption fee includes:
• Desexing
• Microchipping
• Vaccinations
• Flea, tick and worm treatment
• Proheart injection

If you'd like to adopt Zephyr contact Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc:
• Phone: 0459 757 455
• Facebook: Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue
• Email: bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com

Rehoming fee: $650
Breed: Kelpie X
Age: 3 years
Sex: Male
Other dogs: Yes
Fences: 6ft

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Adopt Zephyr today! Photo sourced.

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Here in the Whitsundays, we’re lucky to live in a place that’s as popular with visitors as it is with locals. Tourism is a huge part of our economy—but so is our quality of life. And when the two intersect, it’s important we get the balance right.

That’s why Council is proposing a change to our Planning Scheme to help better manage where short-term accommodation (STA), like Airbnbs, can operate in Low Density Residential areas.

Right now, STAs are allowed in many zones across the region.

But in quieter, suburban-style neighbourhoods, there’s no clear framework to guide decisions. That makes it tough for both Council and the community when it comes to assessing applications.

We’re not looking to ban short-term accommodation—in fact, it brings in more than $174 million a year and plays a critical role during peak seasons and major events. But we also know some areas aren’t always the right fit for high visitor turnover.

So, we’re proposing a new, three-pronged approach:

A Planning Scheme amendment to map out areas where short-term accommodation may be supported, based on how land is already being used and community feedback.
A licensing system, including a complaints process and a ‘three strikes’ rule, to ensure good operators can continue and problem properties are held to account.
And longer-term housing planning—because this is also about making sure locals can find a place to live, not just visit.

This isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. We’ve drawn up precincts for potential STA use based on existing patterns, past approvals, and what we’ve heard from you.

Now, we want to hear more with another round of community consultation that kicked off on June 11 June and runs until Sunday 20 July.

We’ll be holding info stalls in Cannonvale, Bowen, Airlie Beach and Dingo Beach—so come along and have a yarn. You can also fill out an online survey or send us an email directly.

Visit Your Say Whitsunday to find out more and get involved. Because when it comes to balancing homes and holidays, your voice truly matters.

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Cannonvale local and Endeavour Foundation’s Learning & Lifestyle Hub participant, Jenny, is stepping into a newly created, national role.

Selected as one of only five people with disability Australia-wide, Jenny will now participate in a new Client Advisory Group — a national initiative by Endeavour Foundation offering people with disability a chance to make valuable contributions towards the organisation’s future.

Endeavour Foundation is one of Australia’s largest disability service providers, supporting people with intellectual disability to live their best lives through home, work and community programs.

Approaching its 75th year, the organisation recently launched a new constitution, including the key innovation of the Client Advisory Group which meets bi-monthly and provides feedback on policies, programs, and services.

“Excitement, I want to do this for a long time. I am happy to give advice because some people don’t know.  If you don’t get it out there, then people don’t know,” Jenny said.

Over the years, Jenny’s journey from a participant at the Learning & Lifestyle Hub to a national voice for disability rights, shows her growth as a leader and a leading advocate.

Not only has she fronted Endeavour Foundation’s recent Accessible Tourism videos with fellow Cannonvale participant, Charlie, but has actively sought advocacy role and shared her lived experience and story to help empower others.

“I like people to know that they are welcome to come, be happy and be helpful. People with a disability like help.  It is true. That’s what you do.  You can make friends,” Jenny said.

“With Endeavour I learn to get on with others and how to be helpful.  Patience.  Not many people learn to be patient. Communication, I learn how to talk to people and learn to be more independent,” concluded Jenny.

Endeavour Foundation Site Manager, Sabiné Mollone said, “Jenny brings great energy and perspective to the group. She’s been a reliable advocate for her local area and is growing in confidence with every meeting.

“Her contributions already include input on Endeavour’s independent living options, inclusive recruitment practices, and feedback on how to improve easy-read documents.

“The committee also discusses how technology and automation can better support people with disability in daily life,” added Sabiné.

To find out more about Endeavour Foundation’s support services and how they support people with disability, visit www.endeavour.com.au or contact 1800 112 112.

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Jenny from the Endeavour Foundation Learning & Lifestyle hub in Cannonvale. Photos supplied

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The Whitsunday Lions Club have recently made a $3000 donation to St Catherine's Christian College's Duke of Edinburgh International Award (DofE).

The schools DofE teacher Shantae Ryle runs the course with PCYC Sergeant (Sgt) Billy Li and they greatly appreciate the donation.

This is the first time the school has run the program and the support from Whitsunday Lions Club has funded the students to enrol in the course.

The Whitsunday Lions Club is always donating to schools and community groups across the region but they said the DofE is highly regarded and a great way to do outdoor activities while building skills.

“It’s nice to see people taking a step back and not being so focused on social media, there’s an awful lot of it today, and it’s nice to see them doing something out of their comfort zone,” they said.

“They don't realise it yet; how important it will be later on.

“Encouraging the kids to do this sort of thing is wonderful.”

In DofE campaign at St Catherine's Catholic College, Tuesday is fitness with Sgt Billy Li and he noted that fitness levels have already gone up. Wednesdays students are in the classroom, where they have already discovered their favourite activities.

The class noted that their favourite activities were getting to work together as a team and also improving on their public speaking skills.

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Students from St Catherine's Catholic College with Sergeant Billy Li, Teacher Shantae Ryle, and Members of Whitsunday Lions Club Sue Gravelle, Betty Wilson, and Sue Cobham. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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