The Bowen Community Centre is thrilled to announce the overwhelming success of its very first Gala, an event inspired by the urgent need for funding to sustain the Tucker Box Shop and Tucker Box Kitchen programs.

These vital services feed approximately 2,000 singles and families annually without any government support or fees and they are essential to the Bowen community.

The idea for the Gala was sparked by the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre's release of their Investment Guide, which highlighted innovative fundraising strategies.

This motivated the Bowen Community Centre to not only raise funds but also secure pledges from local businesses for the next four years, ensuring the sustainability and growth of these crucial programs.

The event surpassed all expectations, raising significantly more than their initial goal.

The generosity and support from the community was truly remarkable and demonstrated a shared commitment to helping those in need.

With this success, the Gala is set to become a biannual fixture, further solidifying its role in supporting the community.

Bowen Community Centre would like to extend their deepest gratitude to North Queensland Bulk Ports for their sponsorship and for sharing their vision, making this night not only successful but now a regular occurrence.

Their support has been invaluable in ensuring the continued operation of the Tucker Box Shop and Kitchen.

‍

Mayor Ry Collins with his wife Melanie
Greg Pollard, Mark Steen, Stephanie Cora and Anne Steen, Sue Shearing, Jill Brabon, Star Lowry, Lauren Miller, and Councillor John Finlay who was the Emcee for the night.

Photos supplied

‍

Mark your diaries for Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry business events for August.
 
Connecting businesses and job seekers
10am-12:30pm Thursday 1 August, TAFE Whitsunday Campus, Cannonvale
Held in conjunction with the Chamber, TAFE Queensland, and the Queensland Department of Employment, Small Business, and Training this free event will showcase workforce and training programs and services available to local businesses, school leavers, and job seekers.
 
Pop Up Chamber with Porters Mitre 10
9am-11am Thursday 8 August, 2 Carlo Drive, Cannonvale
Drop in and share morning smoko BBQ, coffee, giveaways, and more at this Pop Up Chamber co-hosted with Porters Mitre 10. This is an informal gathering of business owners and the Chamber and Porters Mitre 10 team where you can drop in, learn more about businesses in the region, get up-to-date on Chamber developments.
Pop Up Chamber is a free event for all.
 
Vision for the Whitsundays key findings launch
7:30am-9am Thursday 15 August, TAFE Whitsunday Campus, Cannonvale
Last year the Chamber engaged the region’s trades, small business, commerce and industry to articulate an economic vision for the Whitsundays that is shaped ‘for business, by business’.
Join the Chamber for the release of their Vision for the Whitsundays project, where key insights and recommendations for our economic future will be discussed.
Registrations open soon. Visit the Chamber’s website for more information: www.whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au

‍

As we navigate through the complexities of a post-COVID-19 world, the importance of domestic tourism to our region cannot be overstated.

With the latest figures indicating that domestic tourism numbers are experiencing a slowdown nationally, it is even more crucial that the Council owned and operated Whitsunday Coast Airport (WCA) remains a crucial gateway for driving tourism into our beautiful region.

Under the guidance of our Director of Commercial Businesses, Craig Turner, Whitsunday Coast Airport (WCA) has been instrumental in delivering record numbers of visitors to the Whitsundays providing key connectivity and access to our world-renowned destinations.

It is exciting that the growth has been consistent over a number of years since 2021 where 280,000 passengers passed through the terminal to a record 477,490 in 22/23 and we are tipped to crack the magic 500,000 barrier for 23/24.

The strategic importance of a high functioning airport cannot be overstated, as it not only supports the tourism industry but also boosts our local economy and creates jobs for our community.

The Whitsunday Coast Airport's role extends beyond just tourism. It is a vital link for business travel and freight, ensuring that our region remains connected and competitive.
WCA opened its Freight Distribution Centre in April 2023, and the volume of freight has grown significantly as other airlines commenced freight up lift.

Freight includes live seafood and produce, pets and animals, unaccompanied baggage, valuable possessions or custom cargo, and everything in between!

The airport's ongoing expansion and upgrade plans are set to further enhance its capacity and facilities, positioning it as a leading regional airport in Australia.

Whitsunday Regional Council recently conducted community consultation to seek input to update the WCA Masterplan from 2015 to support the development and expansion of the airport following significant growth in passenger numbers and aircraft traffic.

This updated masterplan is now complete, has been quantity surveyed for costings and is now a shovel ready project which I will be advocating for at Federal and State Government levels.

The last terminal upgrade was completed in 2019 and was designed to cater for a decade of growth but such has been the rapid growth of passenger numbers the terminal has hit capacity in less than 5 years.

Our focus as a Council must be on leveraging the strengths of the Whitsunday Coast Airport to attract more visitors. The WCA team have been proactive in this regard leveraging their partnership with Bishopp Advertising to deliver strategically placed billboards promoting flights to region in key CBD locations in Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast and Toowoomba giving our airport exposure to domestic and international tourists.

The airport's commitment to excellence in service and its strategic importance as a transportation hub are key drivers in maintaining the airport's operations and ensuring that our region remains accessible and attractive to visitors.

A big pat on the back to Craig and his dedicated team at Whitsunday Coast Airport for their hard work and commitment.

As we look to the future, it is vital that we continue to support and invest in the Whitsunday Coast Airport. Together, we can ensure that our region remains a top destination for domestic and international tourists alike, driving economic growth and prosperity for our Whitsunday region.

‍

Last week Industry Development & Trade Manager of Tourism Whitsundays Cait Fleming, travelled all around the East Coast of Australia and Adelaide to educate retail travel agents and product managers all about what the Whitsundays has to offer.

She had the privilege of travelling all over the East Coast and Adelaide with 17 other Whitsundays operators.

“We were on the road to educate retail travel agents and product managers on the variety of experiences and accommodation on offer in The Whitsundays,” she explained.

“As a collective we visited Melbourne, Adelaide, Sydney, Gold Coast and Brisbane in four days, speaking to nearly 300 agents and product managers in each location.  
 
“At every event, it was great to see agents we've worked with extensively as a region and new agents who have never been to The Whitsundays.  
 
“As a region, it's essential for us to do these trade engagement activities both in Australia and overseas to ensure agents stay familiar with The Whitsundays, keeping us as a prime destination in people's minds when planning their holidays.”
 
If you are interested in working with Trade, please reach out to me on cait.fleming@tourismwhitsundays.com.au - I want to help you grow your business and help to promote your products to a wider audience. 
 
Contributed by Cait Fleming, Industry Development & Trade Manager  

17 Whitsundays operators participated in the East Coast Trade Show and spoke to 300 agents in four days. Photo supplied

‍

‍

When you choose to bank with Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine good things happen in our community.
Over the past eight years, the locally owned and operated Bendigo Community Bank has supported a range of regional not-for-profit organisation activities by investing just over $201,500.
This year alone, the Branch has provided nominal sponsorship funds to sporting clubs, community groups, and regional events. Most weekends, Whitsunday locals will also see the Branch’s fully equipped BBQ Community Trailer out and about.
“Our ability to invest back into the community that supports us is based on our unique Bendigo Community Bank ‘profit-with-a-purpose’ model. A percentage of profit generated by our branch goes back into the Whitsundays community. The more the community banks with us, the greater the investment back can become” said Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine Chairman Mark Henry.
The Branch recognises and celebrates our volunteers, the lifeblood of our local sporting clubs, community and not-for-profit groups, arts and culture scene.
“Volunteers are the driving force of our community. Often unsung heroes, putting in the hours and freely giving their expertise so the rest of us can engage and enjoy the activities and programs they provide.  We acknowledge their passion and commitment and encourage everyone to consider volunteering – there are so many opportunities available to get involved, find a meaningful role, and make a difference,” said Mark.
Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine are proud sponsor a number of up-and-coming events and look forward to seeing everyone there:
   • Airlie Beach Triathlon (27 & 28 July, Coral Sea Marina).
   • The Great Barrier Reef Festival (1-4 August, Airlie Beach).
   • The Great Barrier Reef Festival Arts Exhibition, curated by Creative Connections. The Branch has sponsored the People’s Choice Award (1-5 August, Whitsunday Sailing Club).
   • Whitsunday Writers Festival and their closing event, the Local Author Long Lunch (6-8 September).
   • Paul Bowman Challenge junior rugby league non-competitive under 9’s carnival involving 70 teams (14-15 September).
   • Australian Senior Dirt Track Championships, organised by Whitsunday Dirt Riders (5-6 October).
Applications for sponsorship and the Community Trailer are now open. Sponsorship funds are limited, and the application process is competitive with clear criteria. Email the Branch’s Board Secretariat on secretary@whitsundaycel.com.au for more information.

Caption: The Show Whitsunday exhibit. Photo supplied

‍

Lightning Comms is a cutting-edge security service for your home or business. Opening in 2014 the business specialises in telecommunications and security; providing security solutions that are efficient and affordable for everyone.
Speaking to Sarah Watson, owner, and operator of Lightning Comms, she says, “We offer specialist advice and stand by the products we know and trust.”
Sarah added that a lot of the security you can buy in stores you need to install yourself and do not always come with the after-sales service. Lightning Comms are fully insured and licenced to advise and install security systems & offer alarm monitoring on alarm systems.
So, while the business usually deals with commercial customers, Sarah said they often also get a lot of residential jobs, and they are always happy to help.
Sarah mentioned a few big projects they have been working on consisting of state schoolwork from Proserpine, Bowen, and Moranbah to large projects in Mackay, which they are doing alongside their normal service work and island work.
Sarah stated that they offer a couple of different products, depending on the client's needs.
“People like the idea of cameras, but an alarm system might suit their requirements better, and we can advise them towards the best option to suit their needs.”
“Sometimes an alarm is better because as soon as someone enters a property, the alarm goes off and it scares them off. Whereas, when you have cameras, you are not always alerted at the time that someone is in your residence or business and then you find yourself reviewing footage when it is too late.”
Lightning Comms has a security solution for everyone and can provide in-depth and widespread knowledge to suit your security needs.

‍

Members of the Whitsunday business community have now taken part in a second ‘Speed Networking’ Business Breakfast following the success of the inaugural event which was held in Cannonvale last month.

A free networking opportunity open to anyone in the community, the event was organised by Kath Barker from Compass Realty who has been in the Whitsundays for two years and recently started her new business.

She said that working alone or being in business can be quite lonely, so she has started a ‘Speed Networking’ event to help business people in the community meet each other.

Kath said she aims to help create a community of business owners.

“What I’m trying to do is create a community of local business owners, so that we can support, encourage each other in business and help when times are tough - we can support each other through that and also celebrate the wins that we have in business,” said Kath.

“It's tough being in business, it's really quite lonely, so what I wanted to do was create community environments so that we can all support each other.

“We talked about our own businesses and what we're looking for, our target markets so that we can help promote each other's businesses.”

Local business owners, Berny O’Connor, Ildi Eadie and Deanna McKeowen thoroughly enjoyed the first networking breakfast, describing it as “Brilliant” and “It was easy going, no pressure and you felt comfortable.”

Kath welcomes all small business to attend and join the community with their focus being to help and support each other.

‍

Kath Barker organises free ‘Speed Dating’ Business Breakfasts and everyone is welcome! Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

‍

Whitsunday winters are usually clear and dry, this is the perfect weather to get your carpet, lounge suite, mattress and rug steam cleaned with Protect and Sanitise.  

While most people think that hot and humid summer months are the best for cleaning their carpets, cleaning them in the wintertime, in the cooler climate, allows you to open your windows letting fresh air in. The drier, cooler air will dry your soft furnishings faster. The faster your furniture and carpets dry, the less likely they are to get mould and mildew. Therefore, the current climate is ideal for drying soft furnishings, and specialists Protect and Sanitise have you covered.

Purchasing the business in 2013, owners Jess and Mike Hope have been running the company for a decade and have a wealth of knowledge and experience. The pair pride themselves in the fact they are a small, locally owned business who give back to the community, offering personable customer service.

“Our staff and clients are like family,” Jess emphasised.

Protect and Sanitise’s largest client base is their residential customers. This includes people looking to have a spring clean and tenants vacating their rental property. Jess also added that they also service a lot of resorts and commercial properties in the area.

“It's a great time to spring clean your carpets and soft furnishings,” Jess confirmed.

Protect and Sanitise use the hot water extraction method of cleaning, which is the deepest carpet and upholstery clean available in the industry. Their staff are highly trained and educated. Jess confirms that they have the “best equipment, chemicals and cleaning methods.”

Protect and Sanitise specialises in upholstery cleaning, and in the current winter months urge you to take advantage and get your house cleaned ready for spring.

‍

Cool La La, located in the heart of Airlie Beach, serves mouthwatering Asian Modern Cuisine and drinks, alongside some classic cocktails.
The Asian inspired restaurant offers a delectable range of non-vegetarian, vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options and substitutes, and is open six days a week (Tuesday to Sunday) from 5:30pm – 8:30pm.
Abbi Gatdula, the owner of Cool La La, bought the business six years ago from a couple in the Whitsundays who have now left the area. Growing up in the Philippines Abbi mentioned how owning a restaurant there influenced her decision to open Cool La La. Abbi enthused how she loves being able to “interact with people”. The restaurant celebrated its 6 years last week.
When asked what her favourite part of owning a restaurant was Abbi told us it was getting to know all the locals in the area.
“The locals and the social aspect, I like connecting with them”.
The restaurant also serves an array of cocktails, mocktails, wine, beer and soft drinks. Abbi highlighted the fantastic offer they have on their Espresso Martinis. The martinis are available to buy at the restaurant for a sensational $10.
“We have the cheapest espresso martinis in town,” Abbi expressed.
Abbi wanted everyone to know that Cool La La is open and encourages everyone to come and get a taste of the Asian cuisine that the restaurant has on offer.
“We’re indoors and we’re open”.
‍

What is your favourite dish on the menu?
The Sweet and Sour Chicken and Sacha Sauce Pork Fried Rice. Especially for people who are who haven't been there before or are a first timer I always recommend them.
‍

What are the most ordered dishes on the menu?
Pad Thai, Beef Cheeks, Green Curry or Garlic Butter prawns are customers most ordered dishes.

‍

Abbi Gatdula, the owner of Cool La La. Photo supplied

‍

Santi Lera is from Argentina and was drawn to the country because he fell in love with the Australian lifestyle and also at the opportunity to improve his English.

He and his partner moved to Australia in 2018 and Santi jumped at the opportunity to work in one of the most beautiful resorts in the Whitsundays.

Having worked at restaurants in Argentina, Santi has brought a wealth of skills and experience to Airlie Beach.

In 2019 Santi came to Coral Sea Resort and worked in the then called Clipper Restaurant, he travelled down to the Gold Coast and returned to Airlie Beach in July 2020 at another restaurant.

In 2022 Santi returned to Coral Sea Resort into a supervisor role and has since been gaining promotions.

“Our main goal is the customer service for sure you know, customer service and the service we provide here as a restaurant.

“I want the people who come here to have a nice experience in the restaurant, and I want them to come back, everyone is welcome, whether they are a guest at the resort or if they are locals, I want to give them a good impression and give them a good experience.

“My favourite thing about hospitality is the relationship with the customer, I like to hear the feedback and all feedback is important to be able to grow as a team.”

‍

Food and Beverage Manager at Coral Sea Resort Santi Lera, Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

‍

Growing up on a farm in Brazil, Igor Mafra has worked his way up to becoming the Head Chef at Whitsunday Sailing Club.
Whilst on the farm, Igor grew up around animals, with his mother asking him to collect milk from the coral. During his childhood, he connected with his father in the kitchen and went on to open his first restaurant in Brazil alongside his brother.
Igor became a professional chef at 19 years old after graduating in Brazil and has 16 years of experience in the kitchen.
After deciding to seek new opportunities and wanting to grow personally and professionally, Igor decided to pack up his life and move to Australia in 2016.
Despite not speaking English when he arrived in Australia, Igor has worked in restaurants in Sydney, the Gold Coast and then Airlie Beach.
Aspiring to become an Executive Chef, Igor explains how he really enjoys working at the Sailing Club, where he has now worked for six months. Igor added that he really enjoys working with his five other colleagues in the kitchen.
“The people in general, the boss, the manager, the person coming to clean the floor, the customers coming in for beer, everyone!”
When asked what his favourite dish on the seafood-based menu was, Igor stated that it was the scallops, a dish he created back in his university days.
Whilst scallops are the Head Chef's favourite dish, diners at the restaurant often opt for the succulent pork belly. Igor highlights that the Sailing Club's menu stands out due to his Brazilian influence, offering unique dishes such as chicken hearts.
When away from the heat of the kitchen, Igor likes to warm up a different way, participating in many different sports, such as Jiu Jitsu, cycling, kite surfing, soccer and handball.
Don't drift past, head on down to the Whitsunday Sailing Club to try some of Igors delicious dishes.

‍

By Hannah McNamara

In an outstanding display of determination and compassion, 16-year-old Murray McGroarty undertook a 382km walk over nine days during his school holidays to support homeless veterans in Mackay. His initiative, Just Keep Marching, not only aimed to raise funds but also to raise awareness about the challenges faced by veterans experiencing homelessness. Starting each day with laps along the picturesque Bluewater Trail in the early hours of the morning, Murray welcomed the community to participate alongside him, and the impact he has made across the state has been nothing short of remarkable with more than $11,000 raised so far.

Representatives from CASA and Orange Sky Australia, along with Member for Mackay Julianne Gilbert, Mackay RSL Sub Branch President Ken Higgins OAM and proud mother of Murray McGroarty congratulated the successful outcome of the Just Keep Marching initiative. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Local Teen Walks 382km To Combat Veteran Homelessness

On June 23rd, Murray kicked off his mission with a 7am start, accompanied by representatives from the RSL and local homelessness services, followed by a BBQ breakfast sponsored by Tender Cut Meats, Mifsuds, and Coles.

Throughout the week, Murray and his supporters set up old-fashioned cake stalls at Mackay Farmers Market and Riverside Markets on June 26th and 27th, selling raffle tickets to further boost donations.  

On June 30th, a TriService coin line challenge was held, where the navy, army and air force competed to create the longest and most valuable coin line to raise additional funds.

As Murray completed his final lap on July 1st at 4pm, the community gathered for a wrap-up event featuring speeches from RSL representatives, homelessness service providers, special guests and Borthwicks steak burgers to celebrate.

Reflecting on his journey, Murray expressed gratitude to everyone who supported his dream from the beginning and made the Just Keep Marching initiative possible.  

“Thank you to everyone involved in making this idea of mine a reality,” Murray said.

Murray highlighted that veterans are part of a significant portion of the 94 per cent categorised under invisible homelessness, often described as "sleeping in cars, on friends' couches, or in spare rooms." He noted that while individuals may suggest they are temporarily staying with friends until they regain stability, many require additional support from communities like ours.

Statistics show that females under 35 who have just left the defence force are more susceptible to being homeless, however, both men and women of all ages are affected.  

As Murray advocates for greater awareness and action on this often-overlooked issue, he urges the community to demonstrate their support by first raising the conversation.  

“It’s time to really get the conversation going and it can all start here in Mackay.”

Respected RSL Mackay Sub Branch President Ken Higgins OAM praised Murray’s dedication and selflessness.  

“There are all sorts of things he could be doing right now, but he’s taken nine days of his school holidays to walk 390km,” Mr Higgins said.

“He had some tough days in the beginning but I couldn’t be prouder… I knew he’d make it.”

Drawing parallels to his own similar effort during the Vietnam War’s 25th anniversary in 1997, Higgins highlighted the importance of addressing veteran homelessness and providing meaningful support to those in need.

“Veteran homelessness is a big problem, there’s vets of all ages out there that are struggling.

“They need a hand up, not a handout, and we hope this will be an ongoing fundraising event in the future.”

The impact of Murray’s Just Keep Marching initiative raised just over $11,600, with funds directly benefiting local veterans facing homelessness while providing essential assistance and support to those in need.

Murray’s initiative not only raised funds for a vital cause but also inspired the community as a whole, leaving a lasting legacy throughout the region for years to come.

‍

Ken Higgins OAM, President of the Mackay RSL Sub Branch
16-year-old Murray McGroarty founded the idea of ‘Just Keep Marching.’ Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

‍

Our city is absolutely buzzing right now with a killer lineup of events, proving that the council’s hard work to boost our liveability and attract top-notch events is paying off big time. Mackay is fast becoming the music capital of regional Queensland, and the upcoming Festival of Arts is the cherry on top!
Thanks to the council’s ‘Invest Mackay Events and Conference Attraction Programs,’ we’re seeing a flood of major sporting events, concerts, and conferences, all giving our local economy a fantastic boost.
This weekend, we’re in for a treat with the Queensland Music Trails’ Between the Tides, a unique two-night music event held right on the beautiful beach at Cape Hillsborough. Imagine this: an intimate concert experience with the fabulous Christine Anu on Saturday night and the amazing Josh Pyke on Sunday, each supported by the talented Tia Gostelow. My journalist buddy Hannah and I will be there, soaking up the vibes and bringing you all the coverage.
But wait, there’s more! We’ve got the exciting lineup for Rhythm & The Reef, featuring two of my absolute favourites—Bliss N Eso and Sneaky Sound System! These epic bands are hitting Mackay this October, and I can’t wait to catch up with Bliss N Eso again. I had the chance to interview them a few years ago for Core Magazine, and they were a blast. Check out more on page 21!
Local events are also going strong, with awesome gatherings like Tunes in the Dunes last weekend. It just shows how lively and fun our community is. Don’t miss the social pics from Tunes in the Dunes on page 23!
Of course, keeping Mackay livable and vibrant doesn’t come without its challenges. Last week’s council budget meeting saw some heated debates, especially over the reduction in the prompt payment discount. You can read more about this on pages 16-17.
But let’s focus on the good times ahead! It’s time to boogie, mosh, and jive, Mackay! The concert scene is heating up, and there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So grab your friends, get your tickets, and let’s make some unforgettable memories.
See you at the next gig!
‍

Amanda

‍

In a time when the cost-of-living crisis weighs heavily on many in Mackay, gestures of kindness like the one shown at Andergrove McDonald's last week has left a lasting impact on a local family.

A local man by the name of Trey has selflessly payed for a stranger's dinner, including meals for a whole family at a McDonald’s in Andergrove and the mother on the receiving end has taken to a local Facebook page to express her profound gratitude.

The recipient of Trey's generosity was deeply touched, expressing sincere appreciation for the act of unexpected kindness. Her heartfelt thanks not only acknowledged Trey's gesture but also ignited a chain of positivity and goodwill within the community. Promising to pay it forward, she later met Trey at the nearby Coles, seizing the chance to personally thank him.

The Facebook post read: ‘Young man at Andergrove McDonald's this evening Friday at 6pm. Greyish tilly Ute, P plater. Thank you for paying for my children's and my dinner. Such a lovely gesture. Thank you! I will be paying it forward. Later I seen you parked at Coles, and I stopped to say Thank you. Your name is Trey. So nice to meet you. Thank you again.’

Acts such as this remind us of the generosity and selflessness within the community.

How can you extend a helping hand and make a significant impact on someone's day?

Even the smallest acts of kindness can go a long way!

‍

A kind stranger by the name of Trey has generously paid for a whole family’s meal at McDonalds Andergrove

‍

By Amanda Wright
In last week’s ordinary meeting, the Mackay Regional Council approved a significant motion to rename the new playground area associated with the Seaforth Water Park in memory of the late Jim Adams, a former councillor. This decision, spearheaded by Cr George Christensen after the family sent him a letter, honours the late Jim Adams' extensive community service and reflects the council's commitment to preserving his legacy.
Cr Christensen’s Notified Motion, supported by a detailed background and a heartfelt letter from Jim Adams' daughter, called for the council to transfer the memorial park's name to the new playground. The existing Jim Adams Memorial Park, dedicated in 1998, recognised Adams' contributions to the Seaforth and broader Mackay community. Over the years, however, the park's play equipment deteriorated, leading to its removal. Despite the removal, the park was intended to remain a memorial space, with efforts made to maintain its signage and aesthetics.
Cr Christensen emphasised the significance of this motion, stating, "This is not just about renaming a playground; it’s about honouring the legacy of a man who dedicated his life to improving our community.
“By transferring the name to the new playground, we ensure that Jim Adams’ contributions continue to be remembered in a meaningful manner.
“I don’t know what could be more fitting than to honour his name in that playground, where laughter fills the air and community spirit thrives. The transfer preserves the integrity of the original naming ensuring Jim Adams’ name remains synonymous with the playground.”
The proposal to rename the new playground didn’t completely align with the council’s “Naming of Infrastructure Assets” policy, causing a division of opinion among councillors.
Judith Thatcher, Jim Adams' daughter, expressed her family's disappointment with the current state of the park and the way in which her family found out about the decommissioning of the playground equipment.
“On 31st July 2023, my family were blindsided by a phone call from the Mackay Regional Council regarding the future function of the Jim Adams Memorial Park. The nature of this phone call is still distressing to our family,” she said during the ordinary meeting.
“Indeed it was a callous and unwelcome interaction,” she added.
“To think the very statutory body my father, councillor Jim Adams, represented impeccably for 28 years, could stoop so low, discounting the memorial park and playground under the justification of cost-cutting is absolutely gut-wrenching,” she added.
"It has been deeply upsetting to see the original Jim Adams Memorial Park fall into disrepair.
“My father worked tirelessly for this community, and it is only right that his name be associated with a place that continues to serve the children and families he cared so much about," Judith said.
"Renaming the new playground ensures that his memory is honoured in a space that brings joy and community togetherness, just as he would have wanted."
Thatcher highlighted the personal significance of the park to her family.
"The Jim Adams Memorial Park was always intended to be a place where children could play and families could gather, reflecting my father’s dedication to community service.
“The removal of the playground equipment was a blow, but this new motion gives us hope that his legacy will be preserved in a way that is both purposeful and dignified," she added.
Cr Christensen underscored the importance of involving the community and the Adams family in the decision-making process.
"This motion is about more than just policy. It’s about ensuring that the voices of those who knew and loved Jim Adams are heard and respected.
“The new playground at Seaforth Water Park is a perfect location to honour his memory, as it continues to serve the community in a similar capacity to the original park," he said.
The granddaughter of Jim Adams also spoke at the meeting on behalf of Jim’s wife, Margaret.
“I would never have expected the current state of the Jim Adams Memorial Park condition I can only describe as heartbreaking.
“Cr Christensen’s resolutions will allow my family to heal, the community to move forward in a positive and respectful manner,” she said.
Jim Adams was a visionary leader dedicated to improving his community. During his tenure, he played a key role in numerous projects, including the Seaforth swimming enclosure, the Seaforth Community Hall, and significant infrastructure developments in the Mackay region. His efforts extended to securing reticulated water supplies, planning and constructing vital port infrastructure, and advocating for rural road improvements. Adams' commitment to his community was unwavering, and his legacy continues to be celebrated.
The council's decision included a unanimous vote to revise internal processes, due to an amendment to the motion put forward by Cr Ash-Lee Johnson. This amendment aims to ensure that any significant changes to memorial park assets or the park itself are promptly communicated to surviving family members, thereby preventing future misunderstandings or disappointments.
Cr Bella moved a procedural motion stating that by voting with the current policy as it is, shows disrespect to a number of others, who under this policy were dealt with in another way.
“Ultimately everybody needs to be treated the same way.
“It doesn’t show a lack of compassion asking for the policy to be changed, it shows compassion to those who have missed out in the past.
“I would like to lay this on the table, until such time as we can decide whether the policy is fit for purpose or not. Policies are there to ensure equity, to ensure fairness.”
The procedural motion did not pass. Cr Jones also spoke against the motion, stating that the Jim Adams Park is still named as such to be remembered in the community and that the renaming of another asset did not align with the current policy.
Cr Christensen’s amended motion to rename the playground at the Seaforth Esplanade in memory of Jim Adams was carried, with councillors voting in favour, 10-1.

The family of the late Jim Adams, his granddaughter, wife Margaret Adams and daughter Judith Thatcher, spoke at last week’s Mackay Regional Council ordinary meeting to support a motion to rename the new playground on the Seaforth Esplanade in honour of Jim. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

‍