Queensland’s Award-Winning Celebrant

When it comes to saying "I do," Barb Baretta is the name couples trust to make their moment special. Crowned the 2025 Wedding Industry Award winner for Civil Marriage Celebrant in the Whitsundays and Mackay region, Barb has become one of Queensland’s most respected and sought-after wedding celebrants.

In just eight years, she has officiated nearly 200 weddings, combining experience, professionalism, and a heartfelt personal touch that has earned her a cherished place in the lives and stories of countless couples.

Based in Mackay, Barb travels far and wide to help couples tie the knot – from remote cattle properties to coastal mountaintops, inner-city parks to private homes, and even the iconic Whitehaven Beach via helicopter. Whether it’s a tight-knit elopement beneath the gum trees or a grand wedding under a magnificent marquee, Barb ensures each ceremony reflects the unique needs of the bride and groom.

“I work around my couples,” Barb says.

“This is their day – it should reflect who they are and what matters most to them.”

It’s this couple-first approach that has earned her consistent praise and a growing client base. Known for being calm under pressure and genuinely invested in her clients, Barb takes time to understand every couple’s unique story, ensuring the ceremony feels personal and meaningful.

Her success stems from the simple fact that she loves what she does.

“I’m honoured to be a part of one of the most important days in people’s lives.

“For me, that joy never wears off.”

No matter the size, setting, or style, Barb Baretta brings warmth, grace, and professionalism to every ceremony, ensuring it’s truly memorable and entirely your day, your way.

Book with Barb today at www.celebrantbarbbaretta.com.au

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Local Advocate Set To Sparkle on National Stage

By Hannah McNamara

Jenna Kerschbaumer is redefining the pageantry world, turning years of heartache into a mission grounded in confidence-building - not just for herself, but for the wonderful women around her.

This October, she’ll step onto the Melbourne stage to compete in the Ultimate International Miss Australia pageant, proudly promoting self-love and empowerment with every stride.

Throughout school, Jenna was bullied for her appearance, so much so that she dropped out early and carried emotional scars for years. She says it took more than a decade to recover, and rediscover her self-worth.

“When I was younger, I actually dropped out of school because I was bullied,” Jenna said.

“It took me over 10 years to unlearn the lies I was told about myself and learn how to truly love who I am.”

In 2005, she entered her very first pageant on the Gold Coast, and ever since then, her confidence has blossomed.

Now, she’s loving the skin she's in, and embracing her most authentic self, with a clear mission to uplift others.

“I think it’s so important for young women – especially in this social media age – to realise they don’t have to look or act a certain way. You deserve to love yourself exactly as you are.”

“It’s all about giving yourself permission to grow into the person you want to be, no matter what challenges you’ve faced.”

With that mindset, Jenna is shedding light on the true meaning of modern pageantry - beyond just appearance.

“This pageant celebrates more than just appearances. It’s about empowerment, purpose, and making a difference in our communities,” she said.

“People think pageants are just about sparkly dresses and crowns, but they’re so much more. You grow as a person, gain real-life skills like public speaking, and connect with a sisterhood of strong, like-minded women.”

Though she’s focused on representing Mackay at the national level, Jenna is also making waves at home through her very own fundraiser – Mackay Beeyoutiful Charity Pageants – offering women and girls aged seven and up the same sense of connection, confidence and glamour right here in the region.

Founded in 2022, Beeyoutiful Charity Pageants unites women and girls of all ages, backgrounds and beauty, with the goal of combating bullying, low self-esteem and harmful body image pressures. Men are also welcome to participate, with the event focused on helping all individuals rediscover their worth beyond social media filters.

And better yet – it’s all for a good cause.

The next event will be held on Friday, August 30, with all proceeds going to the Starlight Children’s Foundation.

“This is the first year we’ve supported the Starlight Children’s Foundation. In the past, we’ve supported the Mackay Hospital Foundation and other local causes,” she said.

“It’s just a lovely way to give back to the local community by promoting confidence, self-love, and a positive mindset, especially for women and young people.”

“If anyone is struggling with confidence or mindset, they’re welcome to reach out to me personally. I’m not a certified coach… just someone who’s been through a lot, and if I can help even one person, that’s exactly why I do this.”

Now preparing for her return to the national stage after a few years away, Jenna says she’s embracing the moment.

“It’s been three or four years since I last competed at a national level, so I’m really looking forward to meeting new people, getting back on stage, and raising awareness for my platform: Freedom to Flourish.”

“I’m just so grateful for the chance to advocate, sparkle, and represent something bigger than myself.

“The motto of the pageant is: ‘Behind every successful woman is a tribe of other successful women who have her back.’

“And that’s why I chose to be part of it… because it aligns with everything I believe in.

“I’m hoping this experience will open the door to representing Australia internationally next year… that would be an absolute dream come true.”

Wearing a crown of resilience, Jenna Kerschbaumer is determined to walk the stage with sparkle, strength and heart.

For more information or to enter the upcoming local pageant, visit the Beeyoutiful Charity Pageants Facebook page.

After overcoming years of bullying and self-doubt, Jenna Kerschbaumer is using pageantry to promote confidence, self-love, and empowerment, both on the national stage and through her Mackay-based Beeyoutiful Charity Pageants supporting others to flourish. Photos supplied

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At Alman Partners True Wealth, we’re passionate about helping people live their best lives - both our clients and our team. That’s why we’re proud to be part of the Mackay Careers Expo, where we’ll be showcasing exciting career pathways in the profession of financial advice.

Whether you're a student, graduate, or professional seeking a meaningful career change, our firm offers more than just a job - we offer a future. With our Trusted Adviser Development Program, designed to guide aspiring financial advisers through a structured journey of technical training, mentorship, and personal growth, you’ll gain real-world experience, build trusted relationships, and be supported by a team that values integrity, excellence, and heart.

As a leading holistic financial advisory firm, with 40 years of experience, we are highly regarded in the financial advice world, being named the Financial Advice Association Australia’s (FAAA) Professional Practice of the Year in 2022; and in 2023, a Finalist in the ifa Excellence Awards - Best Financial Advice Employer.

We invest in our team through tailored learning pathways, professional study support, and opportunities for leadership roles. Many of our advisers began in support roles and have grown into senior positions or business partners.

Visit our booth at the Expo to meet our team and discover how you can grow with us. Let’s shape the future of financial advice – together.

www.alman.com.au/careers

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Empowering Our Community - Lessons Learned And Resources Discovered

Since being elected to council in April last year, I’ve learned just how much valuable information and support is available to our community and just how many residents don’t know it exists.

That realisation has become one of the biggest lessons of my first year and sparked a personal mission to help bridge that gap.

One of the best tools I’ve come across is the Snap Send Solve app. This easy-to-use platform allows residents to quickly report issues such as potholes, broken signage or dumped rubbish by simply taking a photo on their phone. The app uses GPS to pinpoint the location, making it even easier for council teams to respond and act efficiently.

Another valuable resource is MyH2O, a free online service that allows residents to track their water usage in near real-time. Not only can you monitor your consumption, but you will also be notified if you have a possible leak, helping save both water and money. You can sign up here: myh2o.qld.gov.au.

And as we all know, Mackay weather can change quickly. That’s why our Disaster Dashboard is such an important resource. It provides live updates during weather events, including road closures, warnings and emergency contacts, all in one central, easy-to-access location.

Once I fully realised the extent of these tools and how underused they are, I have made it my mission to spread the word. That’s why I attend local markets and shopping centres to chat face-to-face with residents and answer questions. I've also embraced social media, launching regular themed posts to share key information.

Every Top Tip Tuesday, I highlight one of our many council services or apps. On What’s On Wednesday, I share upcoming events from the Mackay Events calendar. And on Fun Fact Friday, I explore the rich history of Mackay, something I’ve always been passionate about.

To stay in the loop and learn more about the services available to you, follow my Facebook page: Cr. Nathenea MacRae

It’s been a rewarding journey so far and I’m excited to keep sharing, learning and supporting our community every step of the way.

By Cr Nathenea MacRae

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At The Mackay Careers Expo

Local students and jobseekers will have the chance to learn more about careers in Real Estate Sales, Commercial Sales, Leasing and Management, Finance, Insurance, Property Management, and Financial Planning when Gardian takes part in this year’s Mackay Careers Expo.

The well-established, family-owned firm will be located at Site 96 at the Mackay Showgrounds, where representatives from across the business will be available to discuss the wide range of roles and opportunities offered within the organisation. Visitors will also have the opportunity to speak with staff about day-to-day operations, workplace culture, and what it takes to succeed in each area.

With 25 years of service to the Mackay region, Gardian has built a strong reputation for professionalism, local knowledge, and community engagement. The company’s diverse operations include Finance, Insurance, Financial Planning, Real Estate Sales, Commercial Sales, Leasing and Management and Property Management offering a range of entry points for those starting out or looking to pivot careers.

Gardian is proud to invest in professional development, providing pathways for growth through mentoring, hands-on training, and ongoing support. Whether students are considering their first job, investigating further education options, or looking to enter a new field, Gardian’s team will be on hand to provide insights, guidance, and practical advice.

The expo presents an opportunity to gain a clearer understanding of the skills, attributes and pathways that can lead to a rewarding career in the property and finance sectors, and to connect directly with those working in the field.

Kickstart your career at Gardian – with you at every step.

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Endless Pathways, Shared Purpose: Enrich Hearts, Minds And Futures

Are you passionate about working with children and making a real difference?

Whether you're just beginning your career or pursuing long-term goals, Catholic Education – Diocese of Rockhampton (CEDR) offers a rich tapestry of career pathways grounded in the Catholic faith tradition. Each step is an opportunity to accompany students on their journeys of personal and spiritual growth.

Discover Your Pathway
Begin your journey in entry-level roles such as:
Outside School Hours Care (OSHC) Assistant
Kindergarten Assistant
Teacher Assistant

These foundational roles provide hands-on experience in nurturing the holistic development of children within a faith-filled environment. They are ideal for those exploring a vocation in education, offering insight into classroom dynamics, child development, and the life of a Catholic school community.

Advance with Purpose
Ready to take the next step? With further study, you can progress into teaching roles in:
Early Childhood Education
Primary Education
Secondary Education

As a CEDR educator, you’ll do more than teach—you’ll inspire, guide, and shape the future. Embark on a meaningful teaching pathway in our Catholic school communities, where education is enriched by a strong sense of community and dedicated to nurturing the whole person.

Lead and Serve
As your experience grows, so can your opportunities. Step into leadership pathways such as:
Middle Leaders (Head of Department)
Assistant Principal
Principal

These roles empower you to shape the spiritual and academic direction of the school, inspire entire school communities, and foster flourishing learning environments.

Lifelong Growth
Catholic education is a journey of purpose, service, and leadership. With ongoing professional development, mentoring, and a supportive network, your pathway is filled with opportunities to grow—personally, professionally, and spiritually.

Your future in Catholic Education starts here. Visit our website to explore your pathway:
www.rok.catholic.edu.au
Apply today!

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Bright skies and high spirits greeted racing fans on Saturday, 26 July 2025, as the Mackay Turf Club played host to the premier feature of its summer racing calendar — the Ladbrokes Mackay Cup. Part of the Northern Winter Carnival, the highly anticipated 2000-metre handicap boasted a total prize pool of $150,000, drawing elite trainers, jockeys, and thoroughbreds to compete at Mackay Racecourse in Ooralea.

The reigning champion Hype, piloted by Ryan Wiggins, struck again, defending the title with a commanding performance that saw her pull clear of the field. Following closely were Sir Grace in second, with Logan Street Lion claiming third, rounding out a standout podium for the local racing community. The quality of the field and the winning time underscored the depth of competition that makes this race a highlight of the region’s annual racing calendar.

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Frocks, fascinators and friendship – the Mackay Cup brought colour, style and smiles trackside as racegoers embraced a day of fashion and fun in the field. Photo credit: Mackay Turf Club

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The great diversity of Queensland’s 313 Catholic schools will be the focus of this year’s Catholic Education Week which runs from 27 July to 2 August.

The theme for this year’s celebrations is Communities of Faith Hope, and Love.

Queensland Catholic Education Commission (QCEC) Executive Director Mr Allan Blagaich said the theme reflected the broad range of social, economic, religious and cultural backgrounds of the 162 000 students in Catholic schools.

“Catholic Education Week is a wonderful opportunity for us to focus on the achievements of Catholic schools across the state,” Mr Blagaich said.

“It’s a time to celebrate the uniqueness of each of our school communities but to also realise that we are one in faith and drawn together through a common heritage.

“Our Catholic schools come in many shapes and sizes from our small rural schools to large metropolitan colleges, from boarding schools to flexi-schools for disengaged students and as a sector we listen to the voices of all those communities.”

Celebrations around the state will include Masses and other liturgical celebrations, parent and grandparent days, school activities focused on this year’s theme, and visits to community facilities such as aged care homes and childcare centres.

This year’s official launch of Catholic Education Week will take place on Wednesday, 30 July at St Joseph’s Cathedral in Rockhampton.

“We have had wonderful celebrations in regional cities in recent years, and we look forward to celebrating with the Catholic school communities within the Diocese of Rockhampton.”

Diocesan Director, Catholic Education – Diocese of Rockhampton, Mr Michael McCusker said schools throughout the Diocese of Rockhampton were looking forward to the celebrations.

“The launch will take place at St Joseph’s Cathedral, commencing at 11.00am with Mass celebrated by Archbishop Mark Coleridge (Apostolic Administrator, Archdiocese of Brisbane) and Bishop Michael McCarthy (Catholic Diocese of Rockhampton), and will include hospitality provided by the Rockhampton Catholic Education Office and the Rockhampton Region Catholic schools,” Mr McCusker said.

“Catholic Education Week is a time to celebrate our students and their achievements but also our staff and their outstanding contribution to the ministry of Catholic Education.”

The launch will include the presentation of the 2025 Spirit of Catholic Education Awards, and the Aunty Joan Hendriks Reconciliation Award, presented to staff and volunteers who have made an outstanding contribution to Catholic education from across Queensland.

“The awards recognise people from all walks of school life who have in common a desire to build up the school community and to see our young people achieve their best and will be presented on behalf of the Queensland Minister for Education by Donna Kirkland MP Member for Rockhampton,” he said.

“It’s always inspiring to hear the stories of the award recipients and know that they are just a few of the thousands of people making positive contributions in Catholic schools.” Mr McCusker said.

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Catholic Education Week, running from 27 July to 2 August, will celebrate the rich diversity of Queensland’s 313 Catholic schools under the theme Communities of Faith, Hope and Love, with statewide events highlighting student achievements, community connections, and the dedicated staff behind Catholic education. Image source: Catholic Education Queensland

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On Wednesday 30 July, Gilmour Space Technologies became the first company to launch an Australian-made orbital launch vehicle from Australian soil. While the flight lasted only around 14 seconds, Gilmour Space described the maiden launch as a strong and promising result.

“For a maiden test flight, especially after an extended 18-month wait on the pad for final approvals, this is a strong result and a major step forward for Australia’s sovereign space capability,” the company said on Facebook.

The Eris rocket successfully lifted off from the Bowen Orbital Spaceport, clearing the tower and completing 14 seconds of powered flight using four hybrid rocket engines, with 23 seconds of total burn time planned. According to the company, all systems performed as expected, including flight software, guidance, navigation and control (GNC).

The autosequence and ignition systems were successful, with smooth operations through terminal count and T-0. Gilmour also confirmed that the rocket and ground systems worked in unison, the launch and range operations were executed safely, and early indications suggest the launch site infrastructure remains intact. Extensive flight data was also collected for analysis.

Looking Ahead To TestFlight 2

Despite the brief flight and the rocket not reaching orbit, Gilmour Space stressed that the most important outcome was the safety and morale of the team — and they’re now looking forward to TestFlight 2.

“Only six nations launch to orbit regularly — and just a handful are working to join them,” the company posted on Facebook.

“Today brings Australia closer to that club.

“A huge congratulations to our tireless team, and thank you all for your incredible support. Onwards to TestFlight 2!”

Hon Dale Last MP, Member for Burdekin said he was proud to have support Gilmour Space since the beginning, he was proud of what was achieved during the recent launch.

"It’s fair to say there is more work to do but I know how determined the team at Gilmour Space is to make their space program a success,” he said.

“Given that the ERIS rocket is ground-breaking technology, I think the launch was a success.  The history of the space industry is full of unsuccessful attempts, but it is those attempts that have triggered the biggest advances.

“I am also incredibly proud of the way in which Bowen, and the region, have supported the Gilmour Space team and I know that support has meant a lot to people working so hard to make Bowen the home of Australia’s space industry.”

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the launch had been long-awaited and marked a major milestone for the Whitsundays.

“This morning, Gilmour Space’s Eris rocket got off the ground at the Bowen Orbital Spaceport,” Mayor Collins said.

“It wasn’t without its challenges, with the mission ending soon after, but the fact it got off the ground is a huge achievement in itself — and a testament to the persistence and innovation of James, Adam and the entire Gilmour Space Technologies team.

“For the Whitsundays, this is an important first step towards the giant leap of a future commercial space industry right here in our region.

“We’re really excited to be with them on this journey and to see the space industry in the Whitsundays develop further.”

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy, said that although the flight was short-lived, it was still a historic moment for Bowen, the region, and the nation.

“The Gilmour brothers have always made it clear that first test launches do not usually make it to orbit,” she said.

“There has been a lot of interest in the launch, from locals and visitors, and we look forward to hearing about the plans for future launches.”

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The Eris TestFlight 1 took flight on Wednesday morning. Photo sourced: Facebook

The rocket successfully launched and completed 14 seconds of flight
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins with Gilmour Space Technologies

Photos sourced: Facebook

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A heartfelt message of gratitude has been shared by a local woman after she and her two-year-old were left stranded in the dark when their trailer came loose just five minutes from Proserpine.

“I want to extend my deepest gratitude to the wonderful couple just 5 minutes from Proserpine who found me and my two year old stranded on the road when my trailer pin broke and came off my car,” she wrote in a public post.

“It was pitch black, and I was stuck, feeling pretty helpless. Your kindness in helping me put the trailer back on was truly appreciated, and it meant the world to me.”

She also thanked another driver who made a crucial difference in getting her back on the road safely.

“A special thank you also goes to the four-wheel drive driver heading south who generously gave me the pin from their vehicle so I could safely move my trailer and get ourselves off the road. Your selflessness and support made a stressful situation so much easier to handle.”

In a final message to those who helped, she added: “If you read this, please send me a message—I would love to return the favor by replacing the pin you kindly lent me.

“Once again, thank you all for your kindness, generosity, and help. Your actions remind me of the good in people, and I am forever grateful.”

The incident is yet another reminder of the strong community spirit in the Whitsundays, where locals consistently look out for one another, whether it’s on the road, during tough times, or simply when someone needs a helping hand.

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Hello everyone,

I hope you’ve all had a great week. Rachael is on holiday in Italy at the moment so I’m in the editor’s seat. With Ruth on holiday too, it’s been a very busy week.

Whilst it’s been busy, I think it’s a good thing. I have recently quit nicotine. I had been using nicotine on and off for about three and half years and I can proudly say I have quit and I do not want to use it ever again.

I was inspired by my friend who recently quit. In the past we both used vapes, the occasional cigarette in Bali, but mainly we used nicotine pouches. However, all of a sudden, we both thought we can’t keep using it forever.

The busy week has been good for me, I feel extremely busy but my mind doesn’t feel the need for nicotine which is something I never thought I’d say. I used to use nicotine as a tool for focusing on work and it would be an amazing tool but now, I don’t need it.

While it has been hard, I feel better for it, my sleep is definitely improving, and it’s also shown me that I can stay disciplined.

The last few weeks while I have been quitting, I feel like I have hit a wall. I’ve been extremely tired and do not want to train for my triathlon which is just over two weeks away, but I keep forcing myself to stay disciplined and keep showing up for myself.

I know the hard work will all be worth it in the end.

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The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating a fatal traffic crash in Cannon Valley on 28 July. Around 10.30am, a dual-cab ute was headed south on Shute Harbour Road when it was involved in a collision with a small truck and a motorhome.

The driver and sole occupant of the ute, a 63-year-old Shute Harbour man, died at the scene.

The driver and sole occupant of the small truck was airlifted to Mackay Base Hospital, where he remains in a critical condition.

At 10.50am that morning, BMA CQ Rescue were called to help on scene at the multi-vehicle accident.

Due to the location of the incident, the rescue helicopter pilot was challenged to land on the road, to be as close to those needing help as possible.

With other emergency services already on scene, the BMA CQ Rescue medical team joined in triaging patients. One male patient with leg injuries, was first stabilised, then flown to Mackay where further medical teams were on standby.

BMA CQ Rescue General Manager Lisa Martin said, “We often work side by side with other emergency services and together, we all contribute to saving lives.

"Our team is highly skilled and can do amazing things. Landing on the main road during an emergency situation is no easy feat, but our pilot expertly manoeuvred the helicopter so our medical team could be as close to those needing care as possible.”

The four people travelling in the motorhome received minor injuries and were transported to Proserpine Hospital.

Investigations are continuing.

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BMA CQ Rescue’s helicopter was expertly landed on Shute Harbour Road to assist at the scene of a fatal multi-vehicle crash near Cannon Valley, enabling the medical team to reach patients quickly and provide critical care alongside emergency services. Photo credit: BMA CQ Rescue

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Local Performer Brings Sinatra To Life

A love of musical theatre sparked on a childhood cruise has grown into a full-blown stage career for one local performer, Nathaniel Savy is now bringing a nostalgic tribute to Frank Sinatra to the Proserpine Entertainment Centre.

To Be Frank is more than just a collection of Sinatra’s greatest hits, it’s a cabaret-style experience, blending live music with personal stories.

“It’s all the famous songs people love, but connected with monologues,” Nathaniel said.

“It’s about the pivotal points of my life and connecting them through song.”

Backed by a live 18-piece band made up of musicians from the Proserpine Citizens Band, the show promises a rich, full sound rarely heard outside major city venues.

“They do the performance at the markets and the Anzac Day marches,” Nathaniel explained.

“They're a group of really good and fun musicians, but they don't always get opportunities to perform, especially material like this.

“It has been lots of fun. I've been practising with them for the last month, and they just get better and better.

“I'm so excited for everyone to hear what we've been cooking up.”

After getting their start in high school productions of Grease and Singin’ in the Rain,  Nathaniel went on to study musical theatre in Brisbane, graduating in 2022. Since then, he’s been in show after show.

Nathaniel’s passion for storytelling and music shines through in every aspect of the show.

“You can build something out of nothing, and music is so flexible, because there are so many different genres it can, it can be whatever you want it to be,” he explained.

“I like to call it; decorating the air.”

WHAT: To Be Frank
WHERE: Proserpine Entertainment Centre
WHEN: Saturday 20 September at 2pm

Nathaniel Davy presents To Be Frank coming soon to the PEC

The Whitsunday Mayor’s Charity Ball dazzled on the weekend, with early estimates suggesting a remarkable $90,000 raised for local organisations dedicated to supporting the region.

Mayor Ry Collins opened the evening by acknowledging the Traditional Owners of the land, addressing dignitaries, and thanked sponsors.

The 2025 Mayor’s Charity Ball, raised funds for three local businesses, BMA CQ Rescue, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, and the Bowen Community Centre.

“While we’re here to enjoy great food, entertainment and good company, at the heart of this event is something bigger — giving back,” Mayor Ry Collins said.

“We’re proud to be supporting three incredible local charities:

“BMA CQ Rescue — delivering lifesaving aeromedical services across our vast region, from the islands to the inland. This community-funded service is our safety net in times of crisis, and we’re honoured to support their vital work.

“Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre — a lifeline for individuals and families, offering programs that address mental health, housing, emergency relief and youth services. Their impact in our communities is profound and far-reaching.

“Bowen Community Centre — a trusted support hub in the north, dedicated to building resilience through connection, services, and compassion. From food relief to community outreach, they are there when it matters most.

“Each of these organisations plays a critical role in the wellbeing of our region, and tonight, through your generosity, we have a chance to give back in a meaningful way.”

“So please dive into the auctions, buy some game tickets, bid big and bold because every dollar raised stays right here in the Whitsundays and goes directly to those who need it most.”

BMA CQ Rescue Spokesperson Tegan Philpott said they were so grateful that Mayor Ry Collins chose BMA CQ Rescue as a charity of choice.

“The work that we and the Bowen Community Centre and Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre do is very different, but at the core, we all have one thing in common. The people of the Whitsundays.

“They turn to each of us for different reasons, but we are there when they need us most. And we can only continue to do that through support like we get from the Whitsunday Mayors Ball.”

Executive Officer from Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre Rebecca Woods said they were extremely proud to be a recipient.
“We were very proud to be selected as one of the recipients for the Mayor's Charity Ball,” she said.

“It was very nice to be trusted with the proceeds and having the faith in the service that we provide.”

Executive Officer at Bowen Community Centre Stephanie Cora said the entire Bowen Community Centre were thrilled to also be named as a beneficiary of the Mayor’s Charity Ball.

“It was a heartfelt moment for the Bowen Community Centre team and everyone involved, knowing the funds raised would go directly into strengthening support for families, programs, and the very heart of the community,” she said.

“With smiles, perhaps even a few tears, and a great deal of gratitude floating through the room.”

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Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins and his wife Melanie Collins.
Isaac Mayor Kelly Vea Vea, Amanda Camm MP Member for Whitsunday, Mayor Ry Collins, and Gladstone Mayor and President of the Local Government Association of Queensland Matt Burnett.

Photos sourced: Facebook

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Tucked beside Galbraith Creek in Cannonvale, the Whitsunday Organic Community Garden is a lush, inviting space where locals come together to grow food, build community and share knowledge.

Established in 2016, the volunteer-run garden is open to everyone and serves as a hub for learning, sustainability, and connection.

Secretary Monica Regan, who joined the committee in 2024, says the space brings together people interested in organic food and community resilience.

“It is for people interested in local food production that is organic, chemical-free, as much as possible, and to serve as that point of connection for like-minded community members,” she said.

“Being not as reliant as much as possible on the big chains or food that has flown in from far away and creates carbon miles.”

The garden holds working bees every Friday from 9am, followed by a cuppa and a chat. An optional membership—$20 per person or $30 per family—supports upkeep and gives access to free or discounted workshops.

Two upcoming workshops are:

• Worm Composting on Sunday, August 10
• Grafting Fruit Trees on Sunday, September 14
  Workshops are free for members, $10 for non-members.

Support from the Gambling Community Benefit Fund, Airlie Health Hub, and businesses like Bunnings and Garden Shack Whitsundays keeps the garden thriving.

Seasonal produce, herbs, and tropical fruit trees grow in raised beds, with visitors welcome anytime. Members attending working bees can also take home produce.

“Growing some of your herbs or vegetables also helps with the cost of living,” Monica said.

Visit whitsundayocg.org.au to learn more.

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The Whitsunday Organic Community Garden warmly welcomes new members. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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