The month of August is celebration time in our Whitsundays as the focus switches from the outback fun of the Bowen River Rodeo to our seaside town of Airlie Beach for the Great Barrier Reef Festival and Airlie Beach Race Week.

Council is proud to provide sponsorship for both events as these annual celebrations not only showcase the natural beauty of our region, but also highlight the incredible community spirit that makes the Whitsundays such a special place to live and visit.

The Reef Festival is an annual homage to the Great Barrier Reef, one of the world's most extraordinary natural wonders.

This year’s festival promises a spectacular line-up of events, from the colourful street parades to the awe-inspiring fireworks over the Coral Sea. It's a time when our community comes together to revel in the beauty of our marine environment and promote its preservation.

Locals and visitors can look forward to enjoying live music, captivating art installations, and a variety of workshops aimed at fostering a deeper appreciation for our unique ecosystem.

The festival is a true reflection of Airlie Beach’s spirit, combining entertainment with education, and showing our commitment to sustainable tourism.

Hot on the heels of the Reef Festival, we have Airlie Beach Race Week. This iconic event draws competitors and spectators from around the globe, transforming our beautiful waters into a thrilling maritime theatre.

Race Week isn’t just about the races; it’s also about the camaraderie and community that form around this event with shore-side activities and vibrant social gatherings.

Both events provide a boost to local businesses, showcasing our Whitsunday hospitality and the unique experiences we offer to visitors.

The dedication of volunteers, sponsors, and organisers make these events possible, and it is their passion which ensures the continued success of both.

Let’s come together in August to enjoy, celebrate, and promote our beautiful region.

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Students from Bowen State High School are involved in two projects this semester with a focus on learning more about Aquaculture and Agriculture.

HarvestEd is an online program facilitated by the Queensland Virtual STEM Academy and the University of Melbourne and is designed for students in Years 8 to 9 in North Queensland to build their knowledge of innovations in agriculture, to promote sustainability and to utilise the design thinking framework to understand local issues and generate possible solutions.

Four, Year 9 students from Bowen State High School have commenced the program with a 1-hour virtual lesson each Thursday.

HarvestEd QLD also includes a mid-point face-face workshop where facilitators will visit the school to meet participating students and to engage in activities to identify local agricultural challenges. The final phase of the program is a Marketplace Day at James Cook University in Townsville. Students will meet industry partners for networking, meet peers and other stakeholders, deliver project pitches to industry partners and embark on a tour of James Cook University campus to learn more about future careers and opportunities in higher education.

Bowen State High School is also partnering with the Aquaculture Centre of Excellence at Whitsunday TAFE to deliver the Certificate II in Aquaculture to Year 10 students. The aim of the program is to engage students in a certificate course with the possibility of securing employment in the aquaculture industry at the completion of the course.

Whitsunday TAFE offered an Aquaculture day earlier in the year for interested students of Bowen State High School and the students thoroughly enjoyed the hands-on practical activities during the day and learning about the skills and techniques required in the industry.

By combining a Certificate II with their Year 10 studies, students are able to complete their school studies with a qualification. Students are enjoying the flexible learning arrangements which sees them combining two days at TAFE and 3 days at school, rather than 5 days a week in the classroom. Students are completing their certificate course at the Whitsunday TAFE campus, as well as in the school’s newly refurbed Aquaculture centre.

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Year 9 students, Sarah, Ella, Jacob and Olivia have enjoyed the start of the program and the opportunity to interact with other students and teachers virtually. Photo supplied

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Are you a lover of live theatre and music?

Proserpine State High School’s Seagrass Theatre and Music Company present their ‘Musical Theatre Night’ on Saturday 17th of August.

The annual event allows students from Years 7-12 to showcase their singing and dancing talents on stage performing family-friendly classics from musicals such as, ‘Hairspray’ and ‘Grease’ to name a few.

You may recognise some of the familiar faces on stage from the student-run company’s productions of ‘Sweet Charity’ (2023) and ‘Joseph and The Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat’ earlier this year.
Rehearsals have been held before and after school and some lunchtimes in order to perfect dance routines and singing numbers.

Dominik James Johnson is producer for this season of Seagrass Theatre and she is thrilled with her fellow students enthusiasm in the production.

“Everybody has really engaged themselves to ensure this season of Seagrass turns out to be an amazing show,” she said.

“Having the opportunity to work with such committed and talented people has been nothing but a pleasure.

“It's incredibly inspiring to watch the devotion of my peers, and the shared passion for theatre being so celebrated and encouraged by both our school and our community.”

Held in the school’s purpose-built Performing Arts Centre, doors will open at 6pm with the show starting at 7pm sharp.

Food and drinks will be available for purchase also from the kiosk.

Tickets can be purchased at the door for $15 per adult or $10 per child or concession card holder.

For more information, please call Proserpine State High School Administration Office on 4945 0111.

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Proserpine State High School Senior Dance Troupe students preparing for their performance of "Too Darn Hot", Photo supplied

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The Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival kickstarted last Saturday and a record number of 96 children took part in the Junior Triathlon.

Organisers Val and Michael Kimpton were thrilled with the event and the overall turnout.

“It was magnificent, tiring but a magnificent sight,” Val said.

A young boy named Attila was gifted the Encouragement Of The Year Award for his incredible efforts.

This award was the perpetual trophy in memory of Stirling Edwards-Bland, a keen local sports kid who tragically lost his life in a road accident some years ago.

A random draw was also held on the day and two lucky children were gifted with a brand-new bike.

There were no awards for the fastest times, the children were simply tasked with doing their best and all children that took part in the triathlon received a medal and a well-deserved bag of lollies.

Congratulations to all who participated in the challenging event.

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8 – 11 age group in the Junior Triathlon
11 – 15 age category in the Junior Triathlon
Big smiles from the boys after finishing their Triathlon
Celebrating the win!
The girls happy after their big event

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Colonial Palms’ managers, Greg and Nettie Dunlop are approaching 12 months since taking charge of the resort and the place has been completely revitalised.

With the support and dedication of long-term local team on staff, Greg and Nettie have created a vibrant atmosphere where they are regularly praised by guests for the happy team and good vibes.

Greg and Nettie have worked in business management for 50 years and know the importance of having good teams.

Established in the 1980’s Colonial Palms Motor Inn has survived several cyclones, blistering hot summers, tropical wet seasons and it is still standing strong.

Under the management of Greg and Nettie, Colonial Palms Motor Inn is flourishing.

Boasting three qualified chefs with over 107 years of experience between them, Colonial Palms provide both guests and visiting diners with incredible meals.

Meanwhile, the ‘Clean Queens’ keep the rooms and apartments immaculate and spotless.

To grow the business Greg and Nettie are excited to bring weddings to Colonial Palms.

“We’re currently in the planning stages of turning this into a wedding venue,” said Greg.

“We figured we've got the tropical gardens, rock pools, the Palms restaurant, deck and accommodation.

“Planning your big day will be made stressless thanks to Shyrelle, our new and very experienced wedding planner that has recently joined our team.

“We will attend to your whole wedding day needs all at one venue.”

Colonial Palms will cater to small, intimate weddings and with the restaurant, accommodation and ceremony, your whole wedding could be hosted conveniently on-site.

Complete with a whole lot of character, stunning views over the water and two rock pools, Greg and Nettie say it’s going to be a “one stop wedding shop” where they offer the whole package.

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Nettie and Greg Dunlop have been managers at Colonial Palms for almost 12 months, Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

One of Colonial Palms Motor Inn’s rock pools

Colonial Palms deck
Photos supplied

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At Mika Airlie Kitchen & Bar prepare to be transported to the 70’s with their house-made California Margarita.

Ingredients:
   • Tequila (GF)
   • Triple Sec
   • Fresh lime juice
   • Vanilla
   • Clove
   • Ginger
   • Almond bitters

Mika is bringing back a classic 1970’s margarita and the ingredients combine to create a charming and refreshing cocktail that is very easy to drink.

The vanilla provides a sweetness to the margarita, which is contrasted by the fresh lime juice that offers a delicate freshness and brings you back to summer days.

Additionally, the cloves and ginger add a depth to the margarita unlike anything else, the hint of almond bitters gives the cocktail a unique twist. 

Mika offer a broad range of specialty Margs, designed to suit almost any taste. Try the Classic, Guava, Mango, Coconut, Matador (pineapple) or even the Smoky (a smoke infused tequila), Spicy– why not make an afternoon of it?

The spicy tequila is house infused with local chillis and they also infuse the tequila with Aussie Mesquite wood to give a touch of earthiness to your smoking sensations. The spicy coconut margarita is also a crowd favourite.

At Mika the tequila they use is Gluten Free and it’s great for those that have gluten intolerances, which means no-one will be missing out on the drinks they can offer.

Margaritas taste better at Mika Airlie Kitchen & Bar between 4pm and 5pm, grab yours now and try.

California Margarita from Mika Airlie Kitchen & Bar, Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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80 gms ricotta-filled ravioli (white and green pasta)
20 gms butter
1 tblsp green peppercorns
4 capers (chopped)
10 gms fresh shallots or spring onions (sliced)
20 gms smoked salmon (sliced thin)
40 mls cream
10 gms fresh parmesan
10 mls Napolitana Sauce
Salt and pepper

Napolitana Sauce:
1 tblsp olive oil
1 clove garlic (crushed)
1 small bunch fresh basil
1 small can peeled Italian tomatoes
Salt and pepper

Put olive oil in small pot, sauté garlic, basil and add sliced tomatoes. Season to taste. Put lid on pot and simmer for one hour or until sauce has thickened.

Half cook the ravioli in boiling water. Place in a pan the butter, green
peppercorns, capers, shallots and smoked salmon. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Sauté together for a few minutes.

Add cream and reduce sauce on medium heat, taking care not to boil. Add parmesan cheese at the end to thicken sauce further.

Reheat the ravioli in boiling water. Add the pasta to the sauce and toss in the pan. Serve and garnish with basil leaves and a tablespoon of Napolitana sauce. (SERVES 1)

Recipe from A Taste Of The Whitsundays by Warren Gamack, Colin Bartley, and Alex Bortoli

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During winter, only once or twice a year, a special day occurs when the tides are low enough for people to walk to Bowen’s Lighthouse.

This year Ingham resident Mary Brown is travelling down from Ingham to complete the walk alongside her family.

This walk is special Mary not only because of the rarity of the tide, but because her mother grew up on Bowen’s lighthouse island.

“There’s just a bit of connection there that I really like, and I want to do that walk desperately,” said Ms Bowen.

“I think it's fantastic, it's sensational the concept of being able to walk at low tide twice a year over there.

“I never had the opportunity to come with mum, and I actually haven’t been to the lighthouse yet”

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy, said the annual ‘Walk to the Lighthouse’ is a great activity which happens each year in Bowen.
 
“We only recommend you walk when the lowest tide is below 0.2m, this is to ensure you don’t get stuck as we don’t want anyone having to swim back!” she said.
 
“In 2024, the lowest tide of the year will occur about 3.25pm on Monday, August 19.
 
“We recommend you leave about one hour before the lowest tide to ensure you have enough time to walk across, check out the lighthouse and walk back.
 
“We also recommend you wear reef shoes or an old pair of sneakers as you will get wet – and please be very aware of the marine life as you will see starfish and sea cucumbers.
 
“Please be careful not to damage any coral.”

WHAT: Bowen Lighthouse Walk
WHERE: Bowen
WHEN: August 19

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Walking to Bowen Lighthouse is only possible at low tide once or twice a year. Photo supplied

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On the first of September, we are thrilled to be welcoming a new direct service from Adelaide into Whitsunday Coast Airport. This new route will give 1.8 million people direct access to The Whitsundays with Jetstar.  

To support the route and to encourage visitation, we have recently launched a significant destination awareness campaign in Adelaide.

This campaign runs across radio, billboards across Adelaide, digital advertisements and social media activity.

The campaign is led by the messaging ‘The Whitsundays: Wide Open’, highlighting the ease of access from Adelaide to The Whitsundays, our wide-open spaces and beautiful, warm weather.

Through the advertisements, we also highlight the variety of experiences available to travellers in The Whitsundays. Whether they are looking for an action-packed adventure or a relaxing escape, there is something for everyone.

This month, we will also be running advertisements for our members as a part of the campaign, to help South Australians dreaming about travelling to The Whitsundays to book their trip. 

We couldn’t be more excited about the new direct service with Jetstar, and if you’re travelling to Adelaide on the new route, keep your eyes out for The Whitsundays! 
 
Contributed by Laura Knipe, Marketing Manager Tourism Whitsundays  

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Fly Direct to Adelaide and visit Adelaide Oval, Photo supplied

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Last Friday, students from nine schools across the region gathered at Glenfields Park in Glenella to plant 1,500 trees. The community continued the effort on Sunday, planting an additional 1,500 trees as part of National Tree Day. Residents were invited to roll up their sleeves and help plant trees as part of the council’s National Tree Day event, held at Glenfields Park on Wheeler Drive in Glenella.

Photo credit: Mackay Regional Council

Planting A Greener Future

Mayor Greg Williamson stated that the council aimed to plant more than 3,000 plants during this year's National Tree Day events, which included School’s Tree Day on Friday, July 26.
“These events help to increase the region’s tree canopy coverage and provide essential shade in this popular recreational area,” Mayor Williamson said.
“By participating in National Tree Day, residents can contribute to a greener, healthier future for our region.
“The benefits of tree planting extend far beyond aesthetics – trees improve air quality, provide habitat for local wildlife, and can reduce surface temperatures by up to 20 degrees.”
Mayor Williamson also noted that these types of community events brought people together and fostered a sense of shared responsibility for the environment.
“Whether you’re an avid gardener or just someone who cares about our environment, your help on National Tree Day is invaluable,” he said.

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Photo credit: Mackay Regional Council

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I often find myself grappling with the duality of my nature: balancing a career driven by stringent deadlines with an innate penchant for procrastination. I suppose you could say I thrive under pressure—like a diamond, I like to think I shimmer in the most challenging moments.
Though, last week, I finally ‘did a thing’ that’s been on my to-do list for years: I registered to become a tissue and organ donor. In New Zealand, where I grew up, this process is simple and straightforward. You opt in when you get your driver’s license, and your decision is clearly indicated on the license itself. In Australia, however, the process is different and, admittedly, it took me over a decade to finally register online.
The catalyst for this decision was a sign I saw at the entrance of Mackay Base Hospital promoting Donate Life Week. I had the time to reflect on this as I was receiving my second chemotherapy infusion which takes a few hours.
I won't lie, treatment number two was particularly brutal. That evening, I opened up to my friends and family, admitting that although I had been diagnosed with cancer months ago, it was the first time I truly felt like a cancer patient. The side effects were overwhelming, plunging me into relentless pain and discomfort. Even a simple trip to the toilet became a monumental challenge, with my hands and feet tormented by a cruel mix of very painful cold prickles and cramps. Tears streamed down my face and for the first time, I couldn't use humour to mask the pain—it was raw, unfiltered, and overwhelming.
However, registering as a donor during such a difficult time reminded me that even in our darkest hours, we have the power to make choices that can save lives.
I encourage each of you to consider becoming a donor. It's a simple act that holds the potential to transform lives. You can read more about organ donation on page 7 in this edition.
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Amanda

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Mackay Central State School recently received a kind contribution from Councillor Alison Jones of the Mackay Regional Council.

Her generous donation of seeds, grown and preserved from her own garden has significantly enriched the school's new Seed Library.

This initiative was originally noticed by Mackay Regional Council Libraries, where a selection of seeds are made available at various regional locations for community members to borrow seeds instead of books, to promote a love for gardening and seed sustainability as well as educate local children and families.

Councillor Jones’s says the Seed Library operates on a simple yet impactful principle: “Just like using a book, you use the seeds and then return it.”

The Seed Library allows you to borrow a packet of seeds, grow your plants and then return collected seeds in the provided envelope once your crop has matured for the next person. This system not only supports local agriculture but also helps cultivate a shared resource of seeds that are well-adapted to the local environment.

Previously, the Seed Library at Mackay Central State School has benefited from a range of generous contributions. Avah Plater, who assists with the school's Garden group, notes that donations have come from various sources, including her own garden, Councillor Jones’s Garden and even local businesses like Bunnings, which has provided garden goods.

The school is actively seeking further donations of gardening tools, seeds or other garden-related items. Such contributions are vital for continuing to grow fresh produce, provide educational opportunities for students and promote environmental stewardship.

Ultimately, the Seed Library aims to foster a thriving, sustainable community and inspire a new generation of gardeners.

Councillor Alison Jones of the Mackay Regional Council donated a variety of seeds from her own garden to support The Seed Library initiative. Image supplied

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In a surprise announcement made last week, Julieanne Gilbert, the Member for Mackay, announced that she will not be contesting the upcoming State election in October. 
 
Mrs Gilbert said that it has been an honour to represent Mackay in State Parliament. 

“The world has changed immensely during this time, increased use of social media, the global pandemic and now we are combating the global cost of living pressures.  I have loved working in our community. 
  
“I have decided that it is time for me to pass the baton onto someone younger who will continue work for our collective betterment, she said.
 
“I would like to thank the Mackay community for their support.”

During a press conference held on Sydney Street, Mrs Gilbert sighted the opportunity to travel with her husband, Frank, as well as spending more time with her family as motivating factors for her retirement. She also said that this was her decision and she was not influenced by the Labor party to retire.

During her career as the Member for Mackay since 2015, there are a number of projects delivered for the Mackay community that she is proud of.

“Investment into our road systems to make our daily lives safer and get to our destinations quicker including the Vines Creek Bridges, Mackay Ring Road and Walkerston Bypass and a network of shared bike and walking paths,” she said.
 
“Our health services continue to grow to service our expanding population including, the rebuild of the Sarina hospital, the funding for the 128-bed expansion and multi-story car park at the Mackay Base Hospital.  The expansion of the Heart Catheter Lab which is saving the lives of locals.”
  
The former teacher also said that the region’s future workforce will come from students currently sitting in classrooms.

“A new classroom block at the Mackay Special School, the upgrade to the performing arts blocks at North Mackay SHS and the new teaching spaces at CQU TAFE will prepare and train our young people. 

“Even when you have not agreed with decisions being made at state government level, please know that each decision was made with the best interest of our community’s future at heart.

“Finally, I would like to thank my family, friends, ALP branch members, many volunteers, and my hard-working electorate staff for joining me on this journey.”
 
Premier Steven Miles visited Mackay last Friday adding his support to Mackay Regional Council Deputy Mayor Belinda Hassan’s nomination to replace Mrs Gilbert as the Labor candidate for the seat of Mackay.

Ms Hassan said she would take an unpaid leave of absence from her role as a councillor while campaigning for the state election.

After nearly a decade of service, Julieanne Gilbert steps down as Member for Mackay to focus on family and travel. Her Mackay Labor team L-R: Suzanne, Julieanne, Phil and Emily. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

Premier Steven Miles (left) visited a social housing project in Mackay last Friday adding his support to Cr Belinda Hassan’s Labor party nomination for the state election

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The community came together in force this year to support the Crossroad Arts’ Annual Giving Program, smashing this year’s target of $17,500 out of the park.

The final tally included a generous $5,000 donation of matched funds from Golding as the 2024 Crossroad Arts Community Champion, Golding generously matched community donations $1 for $1 up to $5,000.

Last week the Crossroad Arts team and Ambassador Georgia Knoll visited a local Golding civil engineering infrastructure project for a behind the scenes site tour and to celebrate the success of this year’s Annual Giving Program raising a whopping $27,205, well above this year’s target.

This figure was made possible with thanks to the donations from numerous local businesses and individuals, many returning to support the Annual Giving program year after year.

Martin Brears, Lead Civil Engineer for Golding, shared the reasoning behind Golding’s decision to partner with Crossroad Arts as a community champion for 2024 Annual Giving Program.

Martin explained, “Golding as an organisation has always looked to support smaller regional charities and sporting groups in the communities where we work. A great opportunity to support a local organisation giving so much back to the community”

Golding Community Liaison Mark Cornelissen went on to discuss how they became connected with Crossroad Arts and the appeal of supporting this Mackay-based organisation.

Mark said, “We heard through the community about Crossroad Arts and just thought about what a great opportunity it would be to do something related to Regional Queensland.”

Golding delivers civil infrastructure, urban and mining services on the East Coast of Australia. Over the past 75 years, ongoing success has allowed Golding to expand its capabilities into New South Wales.

Crossroad Arts are dedicated to creating outstanding inclusive art experiences for all people to build stronger communities. Funds raised from the Annual Giving Program go directly to supporting local artists and programs. If you share their passion for inclusivity in your community you are invited to help them achieve their vision of Arts for All.

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Crossroad Arts Staff visit Golding’s civil engineering infrastructure project site to celebrate the $5,000 matched donation

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Mayor Greg Williamson said Mackay residents were treated to a welcome, and a level of hospitality, that was second to none whenever they visited Matsuura.
“Our sister city relationship has remained strong since its inception in 1989, but the people of Matsuura are just tremendous – they welcome us with open arms, invite us into their homes and share beautiful meals with us,” Mayor Williamson said.
Planning is currently underway for the first citizen's tour of our Japanese sister city since December 2019 (the 30th anniversary tour).
Twenty Mackay residents can take part in the tour, which will be led by Mayor Greg Williamson and council CEO Scott Owen.
The 2024 tour, from December 13 to December 20, will be an immersive experience with outstanding hospitality in Matsuura, including a dinner in the home of a Japanese family.
Matsuura City Council has planned a full range of activities including a visit to J-Power, the city’s coal-fired power station. There will also be a day trip to Mount Fuji and a free day in Tokyo.
Council is currently looking for residents who would like to take part in the citizen’s tour. Costs start from $3845 per person and booking deposits are required by the close of business, on August 2.
Mayor Williamson said during the last Matsuura tour in 2019, a crowd of about 400 people welcomed their group to the city and the Matsuura Mayor, Yoshi Tomoda unveiled a new park called Sister Park.
“The park has a giant platypus-shaped playground and a giant plinth engraved with ‘Mackay Regional Council’,” he said.
“It was an overwhelming experience that was a real pleasure to be involved in and I hope we can put together a great group to share that experience this year. This tour is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to learn about Japanese culture as a guest – not a tourist – and meet the people of Matsuura.”
For more information and booking details, contact mackaysistercities@mackay.qld.gov.au

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Matsuura Mayor, Yoshi Tomoda and Mayor Greg Williamson unveiled a new park
called Sister Park in Matsuura in 2019

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