PRD Annual Property Research Night

The second annual PRD Annual Property Research Night was a huge success, with PRD’s Chief Economist Dr Diaswati Mardiasmo, more affectionately known as Dr Asti, speaking about the Royal Bank of Australia and local property predictions.

With almost 70 people in attendance, the second annual PRD Property Research Night was well received with attendees feeling both inspired and reassured by Dr Asti’s comments and predictions.

“We are passionate about where we live in the Whitsundays and about bringing the information that matters to us, which is why we put this night on,” said Annette Neil, CEO of PRD Whitsunday.

Dr Asti is uniquely positioned to be able to talk about the RBA and economic trends, being a PRD Chief Economist and an RBA Liaison Partner, meaning she represents housing and property when meeting with the RBA every quarter.

Covering everything from inflation and cash rate forecast to a Whitsunday region property market review, Dr Asti communicated a resilient and undeterred economy, predicting that inflation will steadily decrease over the next year.

“We covered what is expected for the cash rate, especially the next three to six months, where the RBA is going to take us,” explained Dr Asti.

“How that’s going to impact a lot of people’s mortgages, their household budgets, and how all this has a multiplier effect on the real estate market.”

The evening also discussed property investment, geared towards owner occupiers and investors.

Dr Asti said that six months ago, the push was for first home buyers, but that has shifted towards investors, to ease the rental crisis.

“A lot more people are now being more inquisitive about properties, what are the comparables, how long has it been on the market, because this is the biggest purchase they may ever make,” she said.

“It’s no wonder people are being more inquisitive and wanting to make sure that they have the right information and as much information as possible.”

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PRD’s Chief Economist Dr Diaswati Mardiaso and Annette Neil, CEO of PRD Whitsunday. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge

From the modest stages of Mackay pubs to national television, Bella Mackenzie is well on her way to stardom.

The local country music star featured on The Voice Australia’s Blind Auditions on Tuesday night, turning heads and chairs with her angelic cover of Taylor Swift’s Anti-Hero.

Bella performed in front of a vocal crowd and four star coaches, Guy Sebastian, Jessica Mauboy, Jason Derulo and Rita Ora, with all four pressing the big red button to express their interest in mentoring her throughout the show.

The 18-year-old chose to join Guy Sebastian’s team and will move into the Battle Round in coming weeks.

Putting Country Music On The Map

Bella Mackenzie grew up in north Queensland listening to country music and is on a mission to be the genre’s next big star.

From playing local pubs and festivals to starring on The Voice Australia, she’s become a national overnight sensation.

“For as long as I can remember when I was growing up in Moranbah and Mackay, all I ever dreamt of was going on The Voice Australia to sing,” she said ahead of her performance, which aired on Channel 7 earlier in the week.

“My ultimate dream for my music career is to be a huge powerhouse, sell out stadiums, just being the next kickass country female artist.

“It’s important for me to be able to go out and show that country music’s still alive and well.”

Putting a country spin on a current pop hit, Bella garnered the attention of all four coaches, ultimately selecting Guy Sebastian as her mentor.

“There was so much feel in the way you were singing; so much musicality in the things you were doing,” Guy told Bella after her performance.

“I think you’re great, I really do.”

Bella took to Facebook to thank her loyal and local fans.

“Thanks to you guys for listening to me sing all those years in my little town because now I can tell you, I’m doing it!” she said.

“I don’t want to be the next Taylor Swift; I want to be the first Bella Mackenzie.”

Follow Bella Mackenzie on Facebook to follow her journey and find out when her next performance will air.

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Photo credit: Channel 7

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In a move that promises to infuse new vitality into its operations, Regional Development Australia Greater Whitsundays (RDA GW) is unveiling a trio of dynamic individuals who are set to reshape its committee landscape. Chairperson Jeff Stewart-Harris is excited to introduce three remarkable additions to the team, marking a shift towards innovation and diversity.

Mr. Stewart-Harris announced the outcome of an extensive and meticulous recruitment process that culminated in the selection of these experienced individuals. These new members bring a diverse range of experience and expertise to the committee including cane farming, higher education, and First Australians advocacy.

The RDA GW's decision to open its doors to new committee members resulted in a flood of applications.

“There was a limitation on total numbers of committee members able to join RDA GW, and I wish to thank those that applied and were unsuccessful,” Mr Stewart-Harris said.

“The final selection process was an extremely challenging one, given the exceptional capabilities of all those that applied,” he said.

“The addition of these three successful individuals further strengthens RDA GW’s commitment to a diverse and skills-based team of regional leaders, who are passionate about developing innovative solutions to support and grow the region.

“Along with my fellow committee members, we welcome the new members to the RDA GW committee.”

The new committee members include Paul Schembri, Irene Leard and Rob Brown.

Paul Schembri has been an active canegrower in the Mackay region for forty-eight years, and is a former Chairman of CANEGROWERS from regional level to national, bringing extensive experience in industry development to the RDA GW committee.

“Regions are the engine room of the Australian economy,” Mr Schembri said.

“Our economic and social well being requires leadership, and I joined the RDA GW committee to help ensure we live in an economically and socially vibrant region.”

Irene Leard is the General Manager of Jangga Operations, a Traditional Owner organisation and Cultural Heritage Registered Body, as well as an advocate for First Australians – to help ensure we all have the same opportunities.

Ms Leard said she is “passionate about ensuring that First Australians have a voice around the table when we discuss our region’s economic development opportunities”.

“I believe in a holistic view of regional development, where economic and social growth are equally important.”

Professor Rob Brown is the Associate Vice-President for North Queensland, based at CQUniversity in Mackay, and the BMA Chair in Automation and Future Work Skills.

Rob has an extensive career in education, developing curriculums, working in senior management and executive levels in universities across three Australian states.

“I am a career-long educator, and believe education, skills and training will continue to be at the foundation of the ongoing prosperity and social cohesion of this wonderful Greater Whitsunday region,” Professor Brown said.

Each new committee member brings a wealth of experience and expertise in business, industry, and community involvement. Their induction marks an exciting chapter for RDA GW and the future of the Greater Whitsundays region.

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Paul Schembri

Irene Leard

Rob Brown

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A local policeman has gone out of his way to assist an elderly couple with a simple and selfless gesture.

A Facebook post on Mackay Noticeboard from Let the Children Play Toyshop shared the “lovely story my parents want to share”.

The poster’s elderly mother was bringing groceries in from her car one bag at a time, leaving the door open as she did so.

“Coming back from the kitchen she heard Dad, who couldn’t help as he is not mobile, say ‘here comes a policeman,’” the post read.

“There certainly was a policeman.

“He was carrying the rest of her groceries and just took them through to the kitchen.

“He just smiled and didn’t say anything.

“When she found her voice to say ‘thank you’ he just said ‘my pleasure’ and went back to his car and drove off.”

The policeman was parked across the street and is believed to have seen the elderly woman unloading her car as he was driving past, stopping to assist.

“It was a lovely gesture and meant a lot to them,” the post continued.

“Thank you, sir, whoever you were, you made my Mum feel very special and really helped out.  

“Small gestures make a difference.”

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More than a decade ago, as I embarked on my journey in journalism, I was granted the privilege of encountering the living remnants of a bygone era – World War II veterans. Their tales were whispered reminders that we must seize fleeting moments, for the faces that hold such stories won't grace our presence forever. These words, once fleeting themselves, now reverberate with an urgency I never fully understood until today.

Time marches on, and as it does, the ranks of those who bore witness to history's most trying moments thin. The veterans of World War II, those brave souls who endured the unimaginable on the battlefield, many now linger in our memories. It's a poignant realisation – the stark truth that the lessons of their lived experiences, their untold horrors and steadfast courage, are a dwindling treasure trove.

Last week, I stood at the Vietnam Veterans Vigil, a gathering of remembrance for those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for Australia and Mackay. It reignited the resolve to ensure that the stories of these men and women, who have shouldered the weight of our shared history, will never fade into oblivion. The Vietnam conflict was unique in its uncensored portrayal through television, which meant for the returning soldiers, their ordeal continued as they navigated the tumultuous waters of violent protests and societal backlash.

For many, the scars were more than skin deep; the mental toll an unspoken burden carried silently. Conscription led countless brave individuals to the battlefield, where they shouldered the weight of duty, camaraderie, and, for some, the ultimate sacrifice. To think that for some, the nation they served could turn its back is a bitter irony that history must confront.

As 50 years have passed since Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War, a new opportunity arises for these heroes to shed the shackles of silence. Their stories, the ones they once held within, have the power to shape the future. I hope they can now trust us to listen to and share their stories.

Amanda

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By Amanda Wright

Last week, services of remembrance reverberated across Australia, commemorating the significant milestone of 50 years since the withdrawal of Australian combat troops from the Vietnam conflict. This poignant occasion served as a reminder of the enduring cost of war, and the valour of those who gave their lives in service. The Vietnam Veterans Vigil, held at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Jubilee Park on August 3, stood as a testament to this commemoration, uniting the community to remember and honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

The event was hosted by Vietnam veteran Ken Higgins OAM, President of the Mackay RSL Sub Branch, alongside fellow Vietnam veteran and President of the Veterans Support Group Les Palmer. As the solemn gathering unfolded at 11:00 am, attendees paid homage to the 523 individuals who lost their lives during the Vietnam conflict, with a special emphasis on the six from the Mackay region and its surrounds, as well as Robert “Jock” Buchan, Mr Higgins’ section commander.

Ken Higgins OAM, speaking at the Vigil, emphasized the importance of remembrance, stating, “We need to remember they gave their lives in the service of the country and they should be remembered for that.”

During the vigil, Mr Higgins shared a poignant tribute to his section commander Jock, an overseas serviceman from Scotland who gave his life for Australia. He expressed, "Jock wasn't a Mackay boy, but Jock was from Scotland. He was my section commander in Vietnam, and we felt it fitting to pay tribute to Jock as he was not from Australia but gave his life for Australia."

Les Palmer, who served in Vietnam at a similar time to Higgins, took part in the Vigil by reading the poem "In Flanders Fields."

Mr Higgins expressed gratitude to the fallen soldiers, saying, "Thank you for your service to your country and for giving up your life while doing what your country asked you to do.

"In October 1987, 32,000 of your mates passed through the streets of Sydney in a 'welcome home' parade with crowds lining the streets, in some places 10-deep. More than 521 Australian flags each representing an Australian killed in Vietnam were carried by relatives and friends at the head of the parade.

"The staff of each flag bearing a metal plaque engraved with a serviceman's name and unit. There was a flag there with your name on it. I want you to know that today at this hour there are people like us all around Australia standing at the graves and memorials of your mates who were also killed in Vietnam.

"As Australians we are saying thank you for your service and for the service of your mates. You're not forgotten, your sacrifice was not in vain, the world is a better place for your actions. We all join together to say thank you and pray for you and to give thanks for your life that you laid down many years ago."

The ceremony also paid tribute to the four servicemen who recently lost their lives in the Talisman Sabre training exercise. Lieutenant Maxwell Nugent, Warrant Officer Class 2 Joseph Laycock, Corporal Alexander Naggs, and Captain Dan Lyon were remembered for their dedication and service.

As the community gathered last week to remember, reflect, and honour, the legacy of these local soldiers continues to resonate, reminding us all of the sacrifices made for today’s freedoms.

An additional service will be held on Vietnam Veterans Day, August 18, to say thank you to all veterans, both living and fallen.

Local Soldiers Remembered in the Vigil:

1. Pte. Trevor Ralph Black

• Date of Death: April 8, 1969

• Resting Place: Bowen General Cemetery

2. Pte. Francis John Fewquandie

• Date of Death: December 4, 1967

• Resting Place: Walkerston Cemetery

3. Cpl. Frederick William “Bushy” Hoare

• Date of Death: August 4, 1969

• Resting Place: Mount Bassett Cemetery

4. LCpl. Paul Leslie Smith

• Date of Death: July 5, 1969

• Resting Place: Mount Bassett Cemetery

5. Pte. Donald Leslie Thompson

• Date of Death: August 2, 1970

• Resting Place: Mount Bassett Cemetery

6. Pte. Brian Thomas Young

• Date of Death: May 16, 1968

• Resting Place: Allambe Memorial Park

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Servicemen, women and members of the public gathered at Jubilee Park last week to remember 50 years since the withdrawal of Australian combat troops from the Vietnam War. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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The shockwaves of road crash trauma are often felt throughout the community, but a local organisation is continually working to educate users on road safety and reduce these incidents.

The Road Accident Action Group (RAAG) has been operating throughout the Mackay, Isaac, Whitsunday and Central Highlands regions for the last 21 years, completing many successful projects and programs to reduce road incidents and fatalities.

Last year, those regions saw a combined 25 fatal crashes, 512 injury crashes and 266 non-injury crashes, and RAAG Chair Viv Coleman said the not-for-profit is working to reduce these numbers.

“We get together with industry and community, industry being absolutely any industry at all with which we can have a partnership, to promote good, safe practices for driving,” she said.

“With the amount of accidents we’ve been having on our roads in the last few months, it highlights the extreme importance, and we really need to escalate that.”

Meeting once a month at the Resources Centre of Excellence in Paget, RAAG implements a variety of projects and campaigns spearheaded by a passionate team of volunteers and organisations.

Collaborating with the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR), RAAG has successfully advocated for and played an instrumental role in a variety of projects throughout the region, including the Walkerston Bypass and the Eton Range, as well as an increase and upgrade of rest areas.

RAAG also presents its road safety education program to organisations throughout the Mackay and Bowen Basin regions, focussing on specific road safety issues relevant to our region including wide loads, fatigue management, distracted driving, stock on roads and more.

Advertising and education campaigns focussing on these issues have been spread throughout the region and the eastern seaboard.

The organisation’s work also addresses other road users including walkers, runners and bike riders, with their Work Out Visibly safety initiative spreading the message of “Be Seen, Be Safe” to those exercising on or near roads.

RAAG can be seen spreading this message throughout the community at events including Parkrun and Emergency Services Day.

“RAAG is in the community,” said Ms Coleman.

“We are a volunteer group and we’re always looking for additional people.”

To find out more about volunteering and sponsorship, visit raag.com.au.

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RAAG is a volunteer organisation promoting safe road use. Photo supplied

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The 140-Year Legacy Of The Porters Group

Mackay’s longest standing hardware store is turning 140 on August 13, and the history behind this locally owned business is one for the books – literally! For The Porters Group’s 125 years of service, Ray Braithwaite OAM wrote 'The End of the Beginning' – a commemorative book explaining the history of The Porters Group. But we’re getting ahead of ourselves – let’s start at the beginning, where it all began with founder Charles Porter.

1883 - Taylors Hotel (known as Empress of India Hotel at the time)

Without the use of power tools, ready-mix cement or mechanical lifts, Charles Porter and his team finished construction of the hotel in nine months. They relied on manual tools of the trade, including ladders, winches and transport through horse and bullock drawn carts.

1912-1913 – Mackay’s Town Hall

Charles Porter was involved in the construction of Mackay’s Town Hall and introduced hardware and plumbing supplies into the business. The new products included Rogers Paint, Wunderlich Art Metal and hot water systems, oil engines, electric light installations, gas and wood stoves.

1916 – Mackay Master Builders Association

A long-standing relationship was formed between The Porters Group and Master Builders, with Charles Porter attending the inaugural meeting to form the Mackay branch. He was one of the earliest contributors to the association, as he was committed to supporting Mackay’s building and construction industry – a value The Porters Group continues to uphold today.

1930 – Brisbane Street showroom

The Porters Group Brisbane Street showroom opened on the corner of Brisbane and Gordon Streets with the motto ‘anything in building material’. This site is the same location the current Porters Mitre 10 Mackay City business stands today.

1971 – Hay Point Coal Terminal

The Porters Group supplied material for the construction of Hay Point Coal Terminal, a significant development for coal mining in the region at the time.

Early 1980s – Moranbah and Dysart

Materials were supplied for the construction of the Moranbah and Dysart townships that are now home to over 12,000 residents.

1985 – The Trade Expo

In 1985, businesses were not allowed to trade on Sundays unless it was outside the standard business premises, so The Porters Group introduced The Home Show and over time it became the annual Porters Group Trade Expo.

1998 – Charlies Coffee Shop

The iconic café, that’s still very loved today, opened with the motto ‘food that tastes like home’.

2002 – Porters Whitsunday Trade Store

The Porters Group opened a trade store in Cannonvale, supplying the Whitsundays with building supplies and hardware needs.

2017 – Porter Mitre 10 Marian, Sarina and Cannonvale

The Porters Group announced the acquisition of the Woodman’s Stores in Marian, Sarina and Cannonvale – joining the Mitre 10 buying group in Australia.

2020 – Porters Northern Beaches Trade Centre

Northern Beaches gets their own trade centre – with Porters Northern Beaches Trade Centre opening in August 2020. It was rebranded in 2022 and Inspirations Paint added in 2023.

The Porters Group is more than a local hardware store; it’s a true cornerstone of our community. The history of The Porters Group is rooted in the growth of the Mackay and Whitsunday region, developing townships for families, hotels for locals to gather, industrial facilities to boost local employment – the list truly goes on, and you can read more about the history of The Porters Group on their website – www.porterscando.com.au.

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By Amanda Wright

In the latest quarter, Mackay Hospital and Health Service's emergency departments experienced an unprecedented surge in the care of critically ill and injured patients, yet despite the increase, all Category 1 patients received immediate attention within two minutes of their hospital arrival, according to data released by the Queensland Government. There were 139 patients classified as Category 1.

During this quarter, the emergency departments within the Mackay Hospital and Health Service area attended to a total of 26,457 cases. This reflects a discernible 3 per cent escalation in comparison to the corresponding quarter in the previous year. The Queensland Government reported that a substantive 91 per cent of these patients underwent examination within the confines of the clinically stipulated time frame. The median interval of wait-time prior to treatment initiation stood at a mere 10 minutes.

Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Shannon Fentiman said that despite improvement, there is still more work to be done.

“Our emergency departments managed a record number of presentations, more than 10,500 than the same quarter last year, and our patient off-stretcher times remained steady, at 55 per cent,” she said.

“Despite the rapid population growth we’re experiencing, and despite being the busiest in the country, our ambulance service is doing incredible work to look after their communities.”

Demand also increased significantly for the next most urgent Category 2 patients with 4549 presentations, a 17 per cent increase compared to the same quarter last year.

767 patients underwent elective surgeries, which is a 23 per cent increase on the same time last year.

In the June quarter 4708 patients were seen for an initial appointment in a specialist outpatient clinic.

Mackay Base Hospital also improved its Patient Off Stretcher time in the quarter, rising to 71 per cent from 68 per cent despite an increase in ambulance arrivals.

“These improvements would not be possible without the hard work, dedication, and commitment to patient care from our health care workers, who I thank for their tireless efforts,” Minister Fentiman said.

Mackay Hospital and Health Service Chief Executive Susan Gannon said the June quarter had been another busy time for staff across the health service.

“I would like to thank our dedicated emergency department staff for their tireless service to our community. We are very proud of them and what they have achieved,” Ms Gannon said.

“Our emergency staff continue to report that a visit to ED is often the first time people have seen a doctor in some time.

“Unfortunately, this means they are presenting with more complex conditions and mental health issues.

“Staff in our operating theatres have also been hard at work to perform additional elective surgery in the June quarter when 767 patients were treated, a 22.9 per cent increase from the previous quarter.”

Ms Gannon added that at the end of June there were no Category 1 patients waiting longer than the clinically recommended time.

“Category 1 – the most time-critical elective surgery – was the largest category with 362 people treated during the quarter,” she said.

“Mackay HHS also has a plan to improve access to elective surgery.

“In 2023-24 the HHS has received $5 million of non-recurrent funding to reduce long waits for Elective Surgery, Gastrointestinal Endoscopy and Specialist Outpatients."

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Mackay Hospital and Health Service Chief Executive Susan Gannon

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A Sarina distillery and popular tourism destination has been awarded four national awards.

Sarina Sugar Shed distiller, Sarah-Jane Parrott, travelled to the 2023 Australian Distilled Spirits Awards last Thursday and said the whole team were excited with the result.

“We are thrilled to return from the awards with not just one, but four awards,” Ms Parrott said.

“The awards were held in Melbourne, on Thursday, August 3, at a special awards presentation,” she said.

Judges for the Australian Distilled Spirits competition are selected from across Australia and are engaged for their industry knowledge and expertise.

“The Sarina Sugar Shed Aromatic Bitters Chocolate won gold in the cocktail bitters category, the Aromatic Bitters Spiced Orange won silver, the Lime NOI won silver and the Sarina Sugar Shed Liqueur won bronze,” Ms Parrott said.

“The star of the night was the aromatic bitters, which is hand crafted on site at the sugar shed, and is available in two flavours, spiced orange and chocolate.

“The chocolate is infused with cacao nibs, cinnamon and vanilla, with each botanical carefully hand selected, blended and infused to bring out the natural flavours.”

Mayor Greg Williamson said the sugar shed team should be very proud of winning these awards on the national stage.

“It’s an incredible result to enter four categories and bring home four awards,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Sarah started working on the aromatic bitters in February, trialling different ingredients to achieve the ultimate flavour profile and it was released to the public in June, at the Sarina Sugar Shed cocktail book launch,” he said.

“Congratulations to Sarah and the whole team at the Sarina Sugar Shed on this amazing achievement.”

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Sarina Sugar Shed distiller, Sarah-Jane Parrott

The award-winning Sarina Sugar Shed team

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May was the first time in five years that the St Lawrence Recreation Group were able to host the St Lawrence Campdraft, the event making a very successful return.

With 680 first round runs to get through, the campdraft kicked off with the ‘Mark Robertson Earthmoving Maiden Draft’ on the morning of Saturday, May 20.

Events ran across the weekend with competitors, both local and visiting, competing and achieving impressive results.

Six top quality judges were secured for the draft, prioritising the safety of the cattle and competitors all weekend.  

Kerry Wallace, Steve Drury, Jason Wanstall, Bo Hatfield, Don Sivyer and Luke Townsend donated their time and expertise, as did many members of the community in supporting the event.

Competitors drafted four lines of cattle supplied by cattle donors The McGibbon Family – Ametdale, The McArthur family – Mystery Park, The McIntyre Family – Waverly Station and Seamark Pty Ltd – Carmila Glen.  

“A draft cannot run without cattle, and we are enormously grateful to these very generous donors,” the St Lawrence Recreation Group Committee said.

Trucks were also donated by Don Shaw Cattle Transport to transport cattle to and from the draft.

Talented committee member Jessica Cash treated attendees to a delicious smoked brisket for dinner on Saturday night before swapping her tongs for the guitar and entertaining the crowd with some live music.

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Junior Draft placegetters

Encouragement Draft placegetters

Juvenile placegetters

Open Draft placegetters

Adelaide McArthur riding Red

Elise Burston

Committee member Jessica Cash cooking the smoked brisket

Dedicated announcer Dave Armstrong. Photos credit: Aaron Rankin Photography and Jessica Cash

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Despite their vastly different fields of study, three CQUniversity students have been recognised for following their chosen career paths close to home.

Awarded scholarships by Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank in July, Chloe Paul, Seumus Andrews and Brooke Vella all share a dedication to their education and commitment to their community.

The Community Bank Sarina scholarships enable those studying to remain in the region, seize opportunities in the local workforce, and actively contribute to our economy and enrich the community.

Partnering with CQUniversity since 2012, the scholarships have evolved with time to meet the ever-changing needs of local business and industry, to keep students local after their studies.

Chloe Paul, one of the proud recipients of the Higher Education scholarship, expressed her gratitude for the support she received toward her Bachelor of Agriculture.

“I’ve chosen a Bachelor of Agriculture because of my passion for cattle genetics, and I aim to be well known in the agriculture industry for my contributions to bovine reproduction,” she said.

“It means a great deal to me to have support from the area that I have grown up in and live in, and this scholarship will provide invaluable support while I complete my studies.”

Seumus Andrews, recipient of an Apprenticeship Scholarship, is completing his Certificate III in Parks and Gardens at North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation. Although he is unsure about his career path after finishing his studies, he knows the scholarship will provide plenty of growth opportunities.

“It was an incredible feeling to be selected for this scholarship and I would encourage other students to apply.

“A lot of people may think applying is beyond their abilities but there’s no harm in giving it your best shot.”

Brooke Vella is currently undertaking an electrical apprenticeship at Aurizon with the goal of becoming an electrical engineer. She expressed her appreciation for the apprenticeship scholarship that will support her career journey.

“I wanted hands-on experience in the industry first and this apprenticeship has been a fantastic way to do so. I want to thank Community Bank Sarina for this opportunity, and I will make the most of it.”  

These scholarships have proven to be a transformative force for students, empowering them to pursue their dreams whilst making meaningful contributions to their community. Community Bank Sarina's dedication to nurturing local students serves as an inspiring example of the positive impact such initiatives can have on the lives of youth in our region.

Community Bank Sarina scholarships in association with CQUniversity are offered annually, and students can apply for either the Vocational and Educational Training (VET) apprenticeship scholarship or the higher education scholarship.

Community Bank Sarina has now opened applications for the Sarina State High School (SSHS) Senior Schooling Scholarship. SSHS students may request an information pack from executive@sarinacommunity.com.au and submit their application by September 8.

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A group of friends are about to embark on the journey of a lifetime for the second time after ticking off a “bucket list item” last year.

Viv Coleman, Karen Armstrong and Molly Bendle from St Lawrence and Kate Craig from Sarina are the Opal Chicks, a team undertaking the 2023 Variety Bash from Toowoomba to Cairns, leaving on Tuesday, August 15.

Ms Coleman said it had been a lifelong goal to take part in the Bash, which raises funds for Variety, a charity providing support for children who are sick, disadvantaged or who have a disability.

“I’ve never experienced the emotional rollercoaster of being able to see firsthand what we are giving back into communities, families and children who need help,” she said.

“You are crying and you are laughing 10 times a day on the same day.

“The impact that Variety Queensland makes, to see it firsthand, there’s no way to describe the emotions you actually feel.”

Before the Opal Chicks participated in their first Variety Bash last year, Ms Coleman travelled to Adelaide to collect a Holden VN Commodore they’ve named Vinnie.

“There’s four of us girls in the car together and we all work amazingly well together as a team,” Ms Coleman said.

“We have a great time and we try to make the best of our ability to have fun.”

The team has already raised over $28,000 thanks to donations from the community, fundraising efforts and sponsors including Ray White Sarina.

“We’ve had so many donations of gifts and prizes for raffles,” Ms Coleman said.

“The community support’s been wonderful.”

Returning for their second year, the Opal Chicks are excited to reunite with their ‘Bash Family’, as many participants return to the Bash year after year.

“We’re all very like minded people, and having that Bash Family atmosphere, it’s so uplifting and it’s such a wonderful experience,” Ms Coleman said.

“I recommend it to anyone; you need to do it at least once in your life.”

Search Opal Chicks on Facebook to follow their journey or visit www.varietybashqld.com.au/t/boulderopalchicks to make a donation.

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The Opal Chicks held a fundraising Bush Bash Ball earlier this year, pictured here with Richard from Ray White Sarina and Vinnie the VN Commodore. Photo supplied

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By Amanda Wright

Sarina's QCWA Branch marked its centenary with a delightful high tea event that attracted guests and visitors from across the region. The celebration, a nod to the Branch's remarkable century of service, was attended by Mayor Greg Williamson, a representative of Michelle Landry MP, Councillor Karen May, and Maree Franettovich of Community Bank Sarina.

The event, steeped in bygone era charm, treated attendees to an array of freshly baked pastries, sandwiches, cakes, and pikelets. Fine bone china, tiered cake stands, and pristine white tablecloths adorned the setting, transporting guests to the past. Each table was uniquely adorned with vintage aesthetics.

Guests cherished the opportunity to unwind, connect with Sarina Branch Members, and relish the display of nostalgic memories. Attendees were also treated to gift bags containing homemade jelly jams courtesy of Sarina Branch members, alongside a special chocolate from Sarina Community Bank.

The event served as a prelude to upcoming gatherings, including Scone Day on August 11th. Watch out for ticket sales for the much-anticipated Race Day on September 5, details to be revealed soon.

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Award-Winning Shop Up For Grabs

By Amanda Wright

Nestled in the heart of Sarina, Under the Veil, an award-winning bridal shop, is now presenting an irresistible opportunity for a passionate entrepreneur to take the reins of a thriving business. With its remarkable track record and esteemed clientele, this turn-key venture promises the chance to be a part of countless couples' special moments.

Under The Veil has garnered acclaim for its commitment to offering an exceptional and personalised experience to brides-to-be and those seeking formal attire. The attentive and friendly staff create an inviting and relaxed atmosphere, where every bride's individual needs are at the forefront of attention. Your wedding gown, a symbol of your big day's significance, is treated with the utmost care and consideration, ensuring that you look and feel nothing less than spectacular. The spacious showroom boasts a wide selection of wedding gowns, formal attire, accessories, and more.

What sets Under the Veil apart is not just its commitment to excellence, but its well-established client base and industry recognition. With years of hard work and dedication, the owners have curated a loyal clientele that stretches beyond local boundaries. The business comes with a well-stocked inventory and comprehensive financial records, ensuring a smooth transition for the new owner. The industry recognition extends to winning both national and state wedding industry awards, further solidifying the shop's reputation in the bridal realm.

The decision to put this gem of a business on the market is driven by the owners' pursuit of new endeavours. While the current proprietors cherish the business, they recognise that it requires an enthusiastic successor to continue its legacy of exceptional service. A passion for weddings, fashion, and an unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction are the qualities that the ideal buyer should possess.

The new owner will have the flexibility to choose between continuing the lease at the current location with an option to extend or relocate the business if desired. The shop has cultivated a local following for formal attire, high school formals, and after-five events.

For the visionary entrepreneur seeking a turn-key business with a successful history and endless potential, Under the Veil stands as an unmatched opportunity. Envision yourself at the helm of a shop that has already etched its name in bridal elegance and excellence, ready to continue its journey of celebrating love and life's most cherished moments. Don't miss the chance to be a part of this legacy; inquire now and step into the world of bridal beauty and splendour.

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Photo credit: Alyce Holzy Photography

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