Colgate used to advertise the “ring of confidence” that its product gave the users of its toothpaste and it is something that could be applied to Mackay right now.

Nothing is more important than confidence when it comes to a real estate market and there are some important indicators you can look at in order to gauge the level of confidence in a particular market.

I don’t have a crystal ball and there are no 100 per cent guarantees in life but it seems to me there are plenty of key indicators that give reason to observe the ring of confidence around the real estate market in this town.

Look at the number of childcare centres that are being built and planned.

A huge one is being built in Juliet St opposite Harrup Park, while there is another being built in the city in Carlyle St.

More are planned in West Mackay, Glenella and the Northern Beaches, and that’s just the ones I know about.

I reckon a proliferation of childcare centres is a pretty good indicator of confidence in a city. Those making the enormous investment in building them are backing the idea of a growing population of young people having families.

For that to happen there have to be work opportunities created in a buoyant economy stimulated by business confidence and a belief in the long-term viability of the region. You don’t build childcare centres if you reckon the place is going backwards.

And companies like Aldi don’t invest millions of dollars building a supermarket unless they are confident about the economic future of a particular market. Witness the construction underway near the Wake Park in Andergrove.

One of the drivers of confidence is our coal. Almost all of the coal we produce and export in our region is coking coal or metallurgical coal and the sector is finally referring to it in the easy-to-understand term “steel-making coal”. It’s not thermal coal, it’s not for power plants and we ain’t transitioning out of it. Another ring of confidence.

The State Government was recently talking up the role our sugar industry is going to have in a future 1000-hectare industrial hub between Racecourse mill and Rosella, which will focus on biomanufacturing, renewable energy and green jet fuel.

There is another plan for plastic manufacturing using sugar cane that will rely on the planned massive hydro scheme in the Pioneer Valley.

The continuing demand for our steel-making coal, the planned diversification of our economy to take advantage of the renewable energy push and net zero ambitions and the potential for our outstanding manufacturing credentials to flourish further are all good reasons for a real estate sector ring of confidence.

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OPINION PIECE

Here is the blue sheep, and here is the red sheep.

Here is the bath sheep, and here is the bed sheep.

But where is the green sheep?

If you recognise these words…and quite possibly know every single other word in this award-winning children’s book by Mem Fox…you probably have a lot to do with little people.

I’m talking specifically about 0-5 year-olds.

Babies are born to learn. Their brain forms more than one million connections every second and up to 90 per cent of brain development happens in the first five years of life!

The Australian Early Development Census data found that too many Queensland children were beginning their school years with weak language and cognitive skills. The First 5 Forever program began, an initiative delivered through public libraries and Indigenous Knowledge Centres (IKCs) in partnership with local government.

Fiona, from Mackay Regional Council Libraries, is the First 5 Forever outreach officer and she does a valuable job connecting our regional families with the resources they need to build the best foundation for their child’s language and literacy development.

One of the ways in which our Libraries connect with families is the amazing Book Week Picnic in the Gardens, which I was lucky enough to attend last month.  This is a beautiful event filled with bubbles, very hungry caterpillars, painted faces, puppets, Elsas, drums, playdough and so much more!

It’s a celebration of reading and language.  The costumes were amazing, and very cute, but it was the excitement of the children as they talked about their favourite books and characters that was the most memorable. Well done to all the Library team who worked so hard to deliver this fantastic event.

Our libraries are filled with passionate staff who promote a place for connection and free programs for families. Baby Bounce, Toddler Time, Story Time, Dads ‘n’ Bubs Baby Bounce and Multiples Chatterplay are all extremely popular.

Right from birth, you can nurture your connection to your child and help their brains growth, simply by talking, reading, singing and playing together.

To find out what’s on visit mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries

Cr Michelle Green
Mackay Regional Council

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The team from Badi Yalobaga Yuribaya (Grow Children Strong) – Mackay Connected Beginnings, Janee Breadsell and Zelda Quakawoot, with Cr Michelle Green (centre)

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It’s Father’s Day and you know what that means?

Well how can I say this nicely? Heaps, that’s what.

Sunday is the day all dads in the Mackay region get to be spoiled. Really spoiled. If you’re thinking of doing something nice for your dad, but you’re unsure whether it’s great, then I’m here to tell you it’s not enough. Go harder. Go bigger. When you do that, you might get close to where you need to be.

Really, what you want your dad to do is go “oh wow!” on Sunday. You want to see that big goofy smile and maybe even a few chuckles from the old man. If you can do that, you’re halfway there.

Sure, you can do this by buying expensive gifts that he may use, or even taking him out for a ridiculously large and expensive lunch, after which he may spend the rest of the afternoon on the toilet. Or you can just give him a massive hug and be there for him on Father’s Day. Sound good?

Sometimes the simple things are the most valuable I reckon. The last time I hugged my kids was when Mum died two years ago. Those hugs mean a lot, so when they come, grab them with both hands, because it could be the last time you get to do it.

Hey, the other thing you could do with Dad this Sunday is join us at Dad’s Day in the Valley. We’ve closed off the highway up the valley, grabbed a whole bunch of cars and bikes to look at, heaps of food, and stacks of giveaways for the whole family. I will be doing the show outside the Police station with one of those slot car race tracks too. Come and see if you can beat me? Are you game?

Sunday is also the day for fun at Muller Park for the miniature trains too from 10 so it looks like a busy time for dads. I can’t wait until I get to hang out with my kids come Sunday arvo for a BBQ. It’ll be the best time.

Hey also this weekend is the grand finals for a lot of sports including my hockey club Arsenals. Good luck to all the teams in it. Play hard and fair. Plus, a big shout out and happy birthday to Nigel Lever in South Mackay who’s having a big party tomorrow! Have fun mate.

You can join Rob Kidd from 5am weekday mornings on 4MK 1026 AM in Mackay and Proserpine, 91.5FM in Airlie Beach or just ask your smart speaker to play 4MK on iHeartRadio!

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A unique six-month female mentoring program that concluded in Brisbane last week, setting a new group of young Queensland women on the path to a rewarding career in the state’s resources sector.

Twenty Year 12 students from 17 schools across Queensland celebrated the finale of this year’s Girls in Resources Life Skills (GIRLS) Mentoring Program, an annual initiative delivered by the Queensland Resources Council’s Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA) and Women in Mining and Resources Queensland (WIMARQ).

Celebrating its fifth year, the program aims to connect experienced women in resources with senior female students who want to know more about career opportunities in the sector.  

QRC Director of Skills, Education and Diversity, Ms Katrina-Lee Jones said the GIRLS Mentoring Program has made impressive strides each year since it began five years ago.

“This group of female students from QMEA-associated schools have kick-started their way to an exciting career in resources as well as boosted their life skills like networking, communication, and confidence,” she said.

“Over the past six months, they’ve been guided and inspired during regular meetings with their individually-matched, female industry mentors who have imparted invaluable professional and personal advice.

“This mentoring program plays an essential role in the industry’s efforts to attract more young females into the resources and energy, which is steadily increasing its female participation rate with a target of 30 per cent by 2026.

“By working with successful role models from various specialties across the industry, these students have gained first-hand insight into the different exciting and rewarding career opportunities on offer and I am confident they’ll become the Queensland resources sector’s next leaders and innovators.”

BMA Head of Performance & Improvement Lauren Molloy Roberts said BMA is proud to have been involved with the GIRL’s Mentoring Program since its inception.

“It is rewarding to see these passionate and aspiring young women achieve their goals and to help them make informed decisions about their own tertiary education or training pathways,” she said.

“With the number of applications from young women wanting to take part increasing each year, the GIRLS Mentoring Program has become a well-established initiative that will help drive the future of the resources sector.”

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Twenty Year 12 students from 17 schools across Queensland participated in the GIRLS Mentoring Program. Photo supplied: QRC

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Hi Everyone,

Youth crime seems to be rife at the moment, the latest incident involving a 12-year-old boy arrested for arson following a house fire in Jubilee Pocket on Tuesday afternoon.

This is just the latest in a series of crimes reported on over the past few months, several car-break-ins, trespassing, and robberies have also occurred, with many residents suspecting local youth, and uploading security camera footage to social media to prove it.

At the risk of sounding old and possibly out of touch – what is going on with the youth of today?

They have such a great life here in the Whitsundays – the beach is close by, there are skate parks, basketball courts . . . do we need more for them to do?

Statistics show that youth crime has increased drastically since COVID – are youngsters feeling despondent? Bored? Fed up with following the rules?

Or is it that they just don’t care because they don’t get in any real trouble when they get caught?

I was speaking to a business owner from the Burdekin the other day and he said that in his region youngsters are frequently stealing cars and leaving them abandoned.

The police know who the culprits are, let them off with a warning and the youngsters don’t care because their slate gets wiped clean when they turn 18.

It seems there are no real repercussions, and these young offenders feel they are above the law.

In my opinion, if they are old enough to wander the streets by themselves, old enough to think of committing the crime, then they are old enough to be punished by law for their crimes.

But I have to admit . . . if it was my kid out there who had fallen down the wrong path and got himself involved with a serious crime, I might very well feel differently.

Rach

Quote of the Week: “Aging is an extraordinary process whereby you become the person you always should have been” (David Bowie)

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In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, women are not merely breaking barriers; they are architecting a new paradigm of leadership, innovation, and success. Let’s shine a spotlight on the incredible strides women continue to make in the world of business, inspiring a generation and reshaping the narrative.

Historically underrepresented in boardrooms and executive suites, women have fought tenaciously to claim their rightful place in the business world. From tech moguls to sustainability champions, their stories are as diverse as the industries they impact. But the journey is far from over, as challenges persist, often morphing into new forms.

One remarkable aspect of women in business today is their unwavering commitment to collaboration and mentorship. Countless networks, both formal and informal, have emerged as essential platforms for fostering connections and learning opportunities.

Entrepreneurship illustrates another facet of the evolving landscape. The rise of women-led startups showcases an inspiring fusion of innovation and determination. Women entrepreneurs are embracing disruption, leveraging their unique perspectives to identify gaps in the market and conceptualise products and services that resonate with a diverse customer base.

Moreover, women are reshaping the definition of leadership itself. Empathy, emotional intelligence, and inclusivity are becoming central tenets of effective leadership, qualities that women often naturally embody. By championing these traits, women are fostering healthier workplace cultures and driving employee satisfaction, leading to increased productivity and company growth.

However, this journey is not without obstacles. Gender bias, both implicit and explicit, still lingers. Women continue to face challenges related to funding disparities, limited access to executive roles, and balancing the demands of career and family. Addressing these issues requires collaborative efforts from both men and women, and from companies and policymakers alike.

As we celebrate the achievements of women in business, it's important to recognise that these achievements are not solely women's victories but victories for progress, innovation, and diversity. Their stories inspire the next generation of female leaders to dream big, work hard, and persevere in the face of adversity.

Women in business are rewriting the narrative, ushering in an era of inclusivity, innovation, and collaboration. By supporting and celebrating women's accomplishments, we contribute to a brighter future where glass ceilings are shattered, and opportunities are limitless.

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Students from across the region enjoyed powerhouse presentations by four incredibly inspiring guest speakers sharing their career journeys in a variety of STEM fields and the opportunity to engage in virtual reality, robotics and drones.

The Whitsunday STEM Challenge committee joined in National Science Week celebrations partnering with key players in the region to bring the Women in STEM event to life.

Whitsunday Anglican School was one of the schools who made the most of the opportunity to join the event which gave the region's youth the chance to experience a taste of the rapidly changing and developing world of STEM.

A school spokesperson said, “At Whitsunday, we are proud to be leaders in STEAM and are counting down the weeks until our world-class STEAM Centre is unveiled to the school.”

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Whitsunday Anglican School students took part in National Science Week celebrations. Photos supplied

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Jubilee Pocket

A 12-year-old boy has been arrested and charged with one count of arson, following a suspicious fire in an unoccupied house in Jubilee Pocket, on Shute Harbour on Tuesday, August 29.

Police and fire crews were alerted of the blaze at 4pm on Tuesday.

One Ambulance crew also attended the scene, with Queensland Ambulance Service reporting no injuries sustained.

The fire was quickly contained, with the house known to be unoccupied.

Police spoke with a number of juveniles present and charged one 12-year-old boy with one count of arson.

The boy will be dealt with under the provisions of the Youth Justice Act.

Dozens of people took to social media, commenting about the incident on popular site Whitsundays Chat.

“12 years old, great future ahead for this young lad,” said one post.

“Might be the wake-up call he needed,” said another.

“I feel sorry for the parents going through the stress of trying to do their best and now being judged by the community.”

The Australian Bureau of Statistics reports that youth crime has spiked significantly since COVID.

In 2019, there were just 18,353 youth offenders prosecuted, compared to 61,229 in 2022.

In the past year there has been a three per cent rise, but the most significant rise has been since COVID.

Two thirds of offenders are male.

In Queensland, youth detention rates are higher than any other state or territory, according to the Productivity Commission.

More than half of all the offenders convicted are re-sentenced within 12 months of release.

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A suspicious house fire engulfed a Jubilee Pocket property. Photo supplied

Legacy Whitsundays badge stand has been a staple in the local Whitsunday shopping centres for years, raising funds for local Legacy projects and programs.

However, in a turn of events, the Whitsunday Plaza has extended a fee to the group, charging them for their space.

In frustration, one local Legacy member, turned to Facebook, explaining that the Whitsunday Plaza, has previously hosted the Legacy group at no charge, allowing the group to use their site to sell Legacy badges and other memorabilia for the charity.

In 2022, the group were able to sell their badges with no fee, however this year, the centre’s new owners have moved to charge the group $600.

“This means more than half the money I would make would go to them,” explained the Facebook post.

“It is true some larger city Legacies have some paid staff, but not Mackay Legacy Inc.

“All monies raised in the Mackay and Proserpine Districts is spent in these areas.”

Fortunately, a helpful reprieve came in the form of another local, Jeff Aquilina, owner of at Hotel Group, who offered to front the fee, so that Legacy can continue with their plans.

Jeff came across the Facebook post and sympathised with the cause.

“I am not looking for too much fuss,” said Jeff.

“When I heard Legacy had to pay for the space, I felt this was very unfair given the marvellous work they do.”

Legacy Australia is an Australian not-for-profit organisation who supports families of ex-servicepeople who have lost their life or health in conflicts.

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Excited dogs and their owners have been heading down to the Cannonvale dog park to sample the newly installed dog agility equipment that will now be a permanent fixture for all the community to enjoy.

A tribute to the beautiful spirit of Stirling Edwards-Bland, the young man who tragically passed away in a road accident last year, the equipment has been purchased with money given to his family in the immediate aftermath.

His mum, Tracy Edwards-Bland, said that they wanted to use the money to give back to the community and her son’s passion for animals and love for his own dog inspired them to create this new facility.

“It would have meant a lot to him,” said Tracy.

“He was here every day with his dog and he would sit on the floor and play with all the dogs, they all knew him, he’d probably be climbing through the tunnel with them now if he was here.”

A bitter-sweet day for the family, the new equipment will bring delight to lots of people, but in many ways will always be a reminder that their son is no longer with them.

Tracy said she comes to the park regularly and brings Stirling’s Bordoodle, Lloyd, and their new Groodle, Maggie with her.

“We’d like to say thank you very much to everyone who contributed, this is all down to you,” she said.

The fundraiser was initiated by local resident Kellie Chart and raised just over $14,000, a figure which happened to be almost exactly what the equipment cost.

Supplied by Paws4Play, the equipment includes a tunnel, three jumps, weave poles, and a bridge.

The installation also includes a dog-friendly water fountain with a special bowl.

Tracy said they will soon install a plaque with Stirling’s name and a QR code which people can scan to see a website full of photos and information about Stirling.

A passionate animal-lover who had aspirations of becoming a vet, the new agility equipment is a fitting way to remember this beautiful soul who was taken too soon.

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Tracy Edwards-Bland with her two dogs, Maggie and Lloyd. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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Bowen was host to the third Mackay Isaac Whitsunday Regional Community Forum of 2023 earlier this week and attendees came together to discuss pressing issues of the region.

In particular housing availability, housing affordability, sustainable and resilient infrastructure, and workforce attraction and retention were hot topics of conversation.

There was also a presentation about the Queensland Procurement Strategy, which outlined that Queensland based business will be prioritised with an estimated $180 billion in government procurement, from 2023 until the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

“The forums provide an opportunity to represent the voices of our communities to government, and in return it enables our communities to contribute to effective input ensuring regional and rural Queensland is included in government’s priorities, planning, and decision making,” said Carl Walker, a Bowen Farmer.

Mayor Julie Hall said she was honoured to be a guest at the forum.

“As part of the forum I was invited to do a presentation showcasing the diversity of the Bowen region and address regional challenges and opportunities,” Mayor Hall said.

“I also participated in a panel discussion with local Bowen Business representatives and stakeholders to showcase how regional areas can make the most of economic growth and infrastructure opportunities to ensure regional communities can continue to thrive,” she said.

“The Bowen Marina and foreshore and the State Development area were discussed as two of our priorities for unlocking Bowen’s liveability and regional potential and of course housing and accommodation were hot topics.”

A fourth Mackay Isaac Whitsunday Regional Community Forum is scheduled for 2024.

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Forum participants attending the Coral Coast Barramundi Farm. Photo supplied

This past Wednesday was National Meals on Wheels Day, celebrating the service’s dedication and commitment to small communities across Australia.

The Proserpine Meals on Wheels branch has been servicing Proserpine, Cannonvale, Airlie Beach, Jubilee Point, Midge Point, and Cape Gloucester since 1974, handmaking and delivering nutritious meals to members of the community.

Maxine and Neil McLoed are a local Proserpine couple who regularly use the service, with Maxine previously volunteering for over four years before her health took a turn and she became a recipient instead.

The couple say they love the service, the cherry on top is the dedicated and friendly delivery volunteers who make sure to have a chat with them each time they visit.

“The volunteers are lovely, and I even remember my clients from when I volunteered,” explained Maxine.

Lyn Forden has been volunteering with Proserpine Meals on Wheels for six years now, and loves each and every time she sees one of the clients.

“It only takes two hours out of your day to make someone happy, for a visit and a chat,” she said.

Proserpine Meals on Wheels is always welcoming new volunteers, in all aspects of the service, including drivers, cooks, and helpers.

To enquire about volunteering, contact, Helen Maynard-Turner, the local Coordinator, on prosmow@gmail.com or ring 07 4945 1733.

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Lyn Forden, Meals on Wheels Proserpine volunteer, with Neil and Maxine McLoed, celebrating National Meals on Wheels Day. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge

This Child Protection Week

Get your old runners on and a white top, it’s time for the Whitsunday Counselling and Support Inc Colour Run Fun!

Encompassing a jumping castle, face painting, sausage sizzle, and so much more, this free event is happening next weekend.

“We’ve designed the event to have gentle and fun educational activities for everyone,” explained Alex Sambrooks, the Therapeutic Case Manager with Whitsunday Counselling and Support.

Coinciding with National Child Protection Week, Whitsunday Counselling and Support host the Colour Fun Run for the entire community promoting the moto, ‘Child Protection is Everyone’s Business’.

The Colour Fun Run is sponsored by a range of local businesses including Coral Sea Marine, Red Cat Adventures, Ocean Rafting, Cruise Whitsundays, Paddy Shenanigans, Whitsunday Foodservice, and Sundowner.

The Colour Fun Run is set to be the best one yet, so head to the Coral See Marina for a morning of fun next Saturday

WHAT: Colour Fun Run

WHERE: Coral Sea Marina Grassed Gardens

WHEN: Saturday September 9, 9am to 12pm

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The weather is getting warmer, which means it’s time to get outside and bask in the beautiful north Queensland spring. With 31 beautiful beaches surrounding Mackay so no matter what side of town you’re on, you’re never too far from a beach.

Be wary when swimming, though, as stinger season approaches, generally running during the warmer months from October to May. Make sure to wear a stinger suit when swimming to be completely safe.

Blacks Beach

Blacks Beach is a serene coastal gem known for its stunning natural beauty. With its golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and surrounding lush vegetation, it offers a peaceful escape for beachgoers and nature enthusiasts alike. The beach's tranquil ambiance and scenic charm make it a hidden paradise worth exploring.

Bucasia Beach

Around 20 minutes north of the CBD, Bucasia Beach is one of the longest and most picturesque beaches in the region. The beach is popular for walking, swimming and fishing. The soft, white sand feels amazing underfoot so make sure to kick off your shoes and go for a wander.

Lamberts Beach

Lamberts Beach, located at Slade Point, is a seasonally patrolled beach popular among surfers when the swell is right. It’s a great spot for swimming, exploring and relaxing in the sun. To the south of the beach is Slade Point Reserve where a network of sandy bush walks among the dunes are waiting to be discovered.

The lookout above is the perfect spot to take in the view over the beach and the coastal waters of the Great Barrier Reef, and you’re likely to spot whales migrating past during this time of year. To the left of the lookout, you’ll find a rock pool. Locally known as the 'wishing well', the rock pool is a great spot for photos, and you might spot a critter or two.

Eimeo Beach

A true tropical paradise, Eimeo is a favourite among locals. Driving under the canopy of heritage-listed mango trees at Mango Avenue foreshadows something special. Volunteer lifeguards seasonally patrol this sheltered bay of pure blue water and powder-soft sand, ensuring a safe and relaxing time on the beach.

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2023 Mayor’s Ball Reaches New Heights

In a fantastic effort, the 2023 Mayor’s Annual Charity Ball has raised more than $105,000, this being the highest amount ever raised since the first Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor’s Ball in 2015.

RACQ CQ Rescue and Whitsunday Housing Company were the two nominated charities, each receiving $52,914.29 at a special presentation last week.

Mayor Julie Hall said she’s elated to have raised such a huge amount and the generosity from sponsors and the community is nothing less than remarkable.

“The decision to support these charities was simple, because ultimately, Council, RACQ CQ Rescue and Whitsunday Housing Company Limited all want the same thing. That is, to serve the needs of our communities,” Mayor Hall said.

“As a Council, we are focused on doing the best by everyone living, working or visiting the Whitsundays which includes keeping everyone safe.”

RACQ CQ Rescue CEO Tim Healee said the community was indebted to Whitsunday Regional Council for their support from the 2023 Whitsunday Mayor’s Ball which helped ensure the service was available to anyone, anywhere, anytime across Central Queensland.

“We are incredibly fortunate to have such vital support from such a high-profile partner which ensures we can have a world-class aeromedical helicopter service on our doorstep and available 24/7, 365 days a year to residents, workers and visitors across Central Queensland,” Mr Healee said.

“RACQ CQ Rescue is a vital part of emergency support for all in this region and the Whitsunday region is one of our most frequented destinations. It’s reassuring to know Whitsunday Regional Council really appreciates the value of supporting our helicopter and that with their commitment we can continue to provide our vital, lifesaving service to anyone in a time of crisis,” he said.

Whitsunday Housing Company CEO Joanne Moynihan said the generosity of everyone involved will help women in the community that have been impacted by all types of personal and financial challenges.

“Homelessness does not discriminate, and it can happen to literally anyone,” Ms Moynihan said.

“I am aware you have a lot of choices when it comes to donating, and I am so grateful that you chose to contribute to our cause. To all that attended the Mayor’s Charity Ball, it’s the people in the community like you that see the purpose of our cause and we appreciate you for doing that,” she said.

“This will ensure that we get closer to our goal to complete the work on our first Tiny Homes project.”

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Mayor Julie Hall with RACQ CQ Rescue Sponsorship Manager Tegan Philpott and Whitsunday Housing Company CEO Joanne Moynihan, and Sandy Clark, Fundraising Coordinator of Tiny Homes Project, accepting the massive donations. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge