Whitsunday Segway Tours was awarded the Gold title for Eco Tourism on Saturday evening at the Whitsunday Tourism Awards, an honour owner Zak Kelly accepted proudly.

“I am super proud to win this award as it had been over five years since the business had won something this important,” shared Zak.

“My wife, Vhari and I work so hard to make the business truly the best it can be in sustainability, service quality and customer service.”

In the past, Whitsunday Segway Tours has been presented with numerous Excellence in Sustainable Tourism Gold Awards, entered the Hall of Fame in 2018 and was awarded the Steve Irwin Award for Eco Tourism in 2019.

“It’s the small things that all add up to make the business as ecofriendly and low carbon as possible – all these impacts are recorded and verified,” explained Zak.

Whitsunday Segway Tours provides a unique and enjoyable experience for a wide range of tourists from various backgrounds and are the sole Segway tour in Australia to operate in a rainforest national park. November will mark a decade since the business was established, with Zak expressing a warm thank you and gratitude to all their customers both past, present and future.

“I most of all thank my prior and future Segway tour guests, my amazing wife Vhari, my business partner, support businesses, Tourism Whitsundays, government departments, local travel agents and the Whitsunday community for their support - I live and breathe Whitsundays and am completely passionate about the area and it’s future.
We can all agree the Whitsundays is an amazing place, and Whitsunday Segway Tours showcases the region in its own unique Eco Tourism sustainable way for locals and visitors alike.”

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Zak Kelly from Whitsunday Segway Tours proudly accepting his award for Eco Tourism on Saturday night

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The Whitsunday Coast Airport has once again won Gold at the Whitsunday Tourism Awards, for the third time in a row.

The airport won Gold in the ‘Tourism Retail, Hire and Services’ category and with its third consecutive win in a row, it has now been inducted into the Hall of Fame.

Several staff members attended the awards and Director of Commercial Business for Whitsunday Regional Council Craig Turner said it was great to have his team there.

“Sharing the win with several staff Saturday night was a highlight, it’s the whole team that works hard so to be able to share the night with them means a lot,” he said.

“To win gold at any time is exciting but to win three in a row and enter Hall of Fame is the cherry on the cake and a testament to the whole team.”

Craig said that by increasing their level of customer service and everchanging to become more accessible is what got Whitsunday Coast Airport the win on Saturday night.

He said the airport is the funnel to drive the economy for the Whitsundays.

Craig also thanked the Whitsunday Regional Council.

“Firstly, I’d like to thank the Councillors and managers of Whitsunday Regional Council who support us in undertaking activities allowing us to grow and reach our full potential,” he said.

“I’d also like to thank the entire airport team including stakeholders and other industry partners that we work closely with throughout the year.”

Whitsunday Coast Airport offer a range of flights and services to destinations all over Australia, flying to, Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Cairns and the newest addition Adelaide.

They facilitate operations of four commercial airlines - Qantas, Jetstar, Virgin Australia and Skytrans.

Craig expresses congratulations to all the nominees and winners on the night, and said “together as an industry we can continue to make the Whitsundays shine”.

The Tourism Awards are a great event and Craig also expresses that other businesses should get involved with them if they can.
“It is a valuable process to be able to reflect on the previous year by working on the business as opposed to in it, there is always room for improvement and growth.”

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A night of tourism industry celebration was briefly thrown into chaos when billionaire businessman and owner of Coral Sea Marina Resort Paul Darrouzet elected to use his platform to give an award recipient speech to slam Whitsunday Regional Council.

The Whitsunday Tourism Awards took place on Daydream Island last Saturday with 366 tourism representatives present to celebrate their successes and hopefully receive an industry award.

Paul Darrouzet was present on the evening to accept the Bob Porter Award for Outstanding Contribution By an Individual, reflecting his impressive work transforming what was Abell Point Marina into the multi-award winning Coral Sea Marina Resort we see today.

Standing on-stage to give his acceptance speech, Mr Darrouzet instead surprised the audience by embarking on an extensive dialogue that specifically criticised Council and Councillors.

His 15-minute speech caused a stir in the crowd, with some members of the audience feeling compelled to leave the room when he began criticizing neighbouring townships within the region.

Whitsunday Regional Council are a major sponsor of the Whitsundays Tourism Awards and had recently announced an increase of funding toward the organisation, allocating $1 million, which is larger than any previous year.

The contents of Mr Darrouzet’s speech put a significant strain on relations between all parties.

Tourism Whitsundays offered the following statement on the matter:

“During the ceremony, we were proud to present the prestigious Bob Porter Award. We acknowledge that some of the comments made by the recipient do not align with the views of Tourism Whitsundays or the broader industry. We remain focused on the positive achievements and dedication of our tourism operators and stakeholders who contribute to the success of our region.”

Many people on the night remarked that they respected Mr Darrouzet’s right to hold such views but believed them to be quite divisive and that a night of celebration was not the correct platform in which to deliver it.

Thankfully, after the speech concluded Emcee Ben Southall was quick to resume proceedings and the night continued with the party atmosphere that was intended.

The evening was a credit to the hardworking Tourism Whitsundays team, and everyone enjoyed much merriment.

In the following pages of this newspaper you will be able to read Paul Darrozet’s entire speech from the night and also read responses from Mayor Ry Collins on some significant local issues mentioned in that speech.

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Owner of Coral Sea Marina Resort Paul Darrouzet giving his controversial speech at the Whitsundays Tourism Awards on Saturday night. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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Find the full speech here: https://youtu.be/qRmux6QrqLw?t=1853&si=adN_q0DRWYSsWwVu

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Statement Of Response
From Mayor Ry Collins

Overall, what does Council think about Paul Darrouzet's speech on Saturday night - what would Council like to say in response?
 
My Councillors and I welcome open dialogue and the chance for feedback from community members and business leaders and this can be done through multiple official channels to ensure a response from Council. A Tourism awards night celebration is not an appropriate forum!
 
As Mayor for just 7 months, I was extremely disappointed and saddened by the divisive and unfounded allegations presented on what was an evening to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our tourism industry. Disappointed that an award winner would use a tourism celebration platform for their own agenda and sad that our amazing tourism operators, who have worked so hard to rebuild after COVID-19, had their night overshadowed by these actions.
 
From the Collinsville Pit Pony outback experience to the Big Mango and amazing beaches and bays in Bowen, to the cane fields and barra fishing in Proserpine and the buzzing resort town of Airlie Beach and our 74 tropical islands, Council along with Tourism Whitsundays, has worked tirelessly to promote and develop the region. Our partnership has always been strong, and we remain committed to working together for the betterment of the Whitsundays.
 

Since 2008 Council has been split into divisions with a Councillor representing each division. What are the benefits of this? Do you have any plans to change it?

At present the Whitsunday Regional Council comprises of myself as Mayor and six Councillors who are each elected from individual divisions. Electoral Divisions allow for councillors to be truly local representatives (for their division), easily accessible to residents and more aware of local issues and contribute to ensuring that sectional interests are less likely to dominate the council. Councillors overriding responsibility is to the entire Council region.
 
In Queensland, local government areas are often large and diverse, which makes the choice between divisional and undivided councils significant.
 
Divisional councils tend to work better in areas with varied demographics and geographic diversity, where it’s important to ensure that smaller or rural communities have a representative voice. Undivided councils may be more suitable for smaller, more homogeneous areas where local issues are less varied, and a region-wide approach to governance is more effective​.
 
Each structure has its trade-offs, and the choice often depends on the size, demographics, and specific needs of the local government area in question.
 
What do you say in response to the assertion that the 4 Councillors who live outside of Airlie/Cannonvale control the votes and the funding?

Council decisions are made through a democratic process, with each Councillor casting their vote based on the needs of their division and the broader interests of the Whitsundays.
 
Funding is not controlled by specific Councillors. All major funding decisions are based on merit, community needs, and strategic priorities for the entire region, not just one locality.

It was also asserted that there have been no capital upgrades in Airlie Beach in 46 years - is that accurate?

Airlie Beach Main Street has borne the brunt of the tourism industry success and growth that we have seen in recent years, especially post COVID. My Council has recognised this and has been actively working on maintenance and improvements while undergoing consultation and planning of a new overall Airlie Beach precinct plan for renewal and a long-term sustainable solution.
 
In recent years, Airlie Beach/Cannonvale has seen hundreds of capital upgrades, including almost $1 million in Airlie Main Street upgrades in the last 12 months alone. Our recent investment into tourism infrastructure and local community projects clearly demonstrate that Airlie Beach remains a key priority for Council.
 
Capital projects since the $20 million Airlie Beach Main Street upgrade was completed in 2013 include: $7 million Airlie Foreshore revitalisation, $60 million Shute Harbour Marina reconstruction, $20 million Airlie Main Street Upgrade, $35 million Cannon Valley Reservoir and pipeline to new reservoir, Whitsunday Water Security and Resilience Program and Treatment Plant, Coconut Grove movie screen and foreshore mega playground, Cannonvale foreshore upgrade , Welcome to Airlie sign, Starfish roundabout , Refurbishing of Airlie Beach toilet block, Refurbishing of Lagoon toilet block, Heart of the Reef sign and landscaping, Skate bowl in Cannonvale – Stage 1 & 2, Whitsunday Lakes Playgrounds, boardwalk and boardwalk lighting, Waterson Way carpark, Port of Airlie Terminal Upgrade, Shute Harbour Road – upper carpark extension, Ocean Road reconstruction, VMR pedestrian bridge, Woodwark Crescent stormwater relining, Cannonvale Transfer Station upgrade, Airlie Lagoon Deck, Airlie Foreshore Lighting, Campbell Creek embankment works, Shute Harbour lookout upgrade, Golf Views Court stormwater renewal, Airlie Beach bus stops, Airlie Lagoon shared path, Bicentennial Boardwalk stages 1 and 2 upgrades,  Wambiri/Adina St intersection renewal, Cannonvale entry sign, Beach Road drainage and footpath upgrade, Jubilee Pocket footpaths, Mandalay Road upgrade, Jubilee Pocket Road upgrade.
 
 
How does Council ensure all funding is spread equally across the divisions?

Council makes decisions for the whole of the local government area not just an electoral division, so all decisions are made in the public interest, for the community at large.
 
There is no process where the funding is distributed across the electoral divisions and the current services and levels of service provided by Council are made with the whole region in mind. How services are delivered or maintained can vary but is generally of the same standard no matter where you live or who is your representative councillor.

Funding for services and infrastructure needs are driven by a range of factors including asset management principles and the type and condition of infrastructure which are also impacted by past decisions and are influenced by time as a number of assets have long lives and require significant investment and ongoing maintenance funding.
 
Generally, the funding and services are spread equitably across the region over time which means more in some years than others but on average and over time this investment and the services delivered even out. There is no set formula for who gets what and where.

What would happen if our region was de-amalgamated?
 
De-amalgamation would likely result in a reduction of shared resources and the loss of efficiencies gained through unified governance. The amalgamation of divisions has allowed us to pool resources, leverage shared infrastructure, and present a stronger, united voice for the entire Whitsunday region. De-amalgamation could create fragmentation and financial challenges as the entire region benefits from the current regional structure.

 
Some other issues raised on the night were - affordable housing for workers, high rise plans for the Foreshore and a carpark on Waterson Way – what would Council like to respond to this?

Affordable housing is a significant issue across Australia, and I have been proactive in actively working with both state and federal governments to explore solutions. Council ensures that all development proposals undergo rigorous consultation and planning processes to balance growth with community needs and environmental sustainability.
 
The Council at the time supported the 5 Star, 12 storey resort development at Airlie Beach, and the Planning and Environment Court agreed it was an appropriate development.

Anything else you would like to add?
 
Our Whitsunday region is an incredibly special part of the world, and my Councillors and I are dedicated to ensuring its prosperity for future generations.
 
I would like to welcome new Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth and my Council looks forward to working closely with Tim and his team.
 
As Mayor and only being in the role for 7 months my major focus is looking forward building a vibrant future for our diverse community. One Council, One Region , One Whitsunday.

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An Interview with the College Principal, Mrs Kylie Langshore

Why are teachers so important to society, and how do they make a real difference in our community?

Teachers make other professions possible. They lay the foundation for every other profession, nurturing the minds and hearts that will shape the future. They don’t just teach lessons; they impart wisdom, values and inspiration, making them pillars of our community.  

What makes the teachers at Whitsunday Christian College different, and what qualities make them so special?

The teachers at Whitsunday Christian College possess a genuine combination of faith, commitment, and love for both education and their students. They hold a deep sense of calling in what they do and go above and beyond to nurture not only the academic growth, but also the personal and spiritual development of each child. They partner with families and are driven by a desire to see each student discover their God-given purpose and potential. They seek to reflect Christ in what they do.

Whitsunday Christian College teaches a broad range of ages; how do the teaching styles change for the different ages? What is unique about the primary school and the secondary?

Across all age levels, the deep relationships our teachers build with students are central to the learning experience, allowing for individual guidance. In our Primary School, teachers use warmth, structure, and hands-on learning to engage younger children, building strong foundational skills. The focus is on nurturing curiosity, a love for learning and a sense of safety, as students begin their educational journey.
As students grow and enter Secondary School, the teaching approach shifts to foster greater independence, critical thinking, and responsibility. Secondary teachers mentor students through the complexities of adolescence, helping them connect their learning to real-world challenges and their personal faith.

How do the teachers at Whitsunday Christian College intertwine the school’s values into the curriculum?

Our college mission is to 'Educate for Eternity, Equip for Life.’ We provide a values-based education where faith, character, excellence, community, and service guide every aspect of learning, both inside and outside the classroom. Whether it's exploring historical figures of faith, encouraging acts of service, building a sense of community, strengthening character, or fostering excellence through academic challenges, our teachers are dedicated to nurturing students through a Christ-centred worldview.

It is World Teachers’ Month; what would you like to say to your teachers to congratulate them?

To all our incredible teachers at Whitsunday Christian College, I would like to thank you and honour you for all you give, both the seen and unseen. You are more than educators; you are mentors, role models, and shepherds to our students. Your tireless efforts, creativity, and deep care for each child makes a difference. I see how you pour your energy, love, and faith into your classrooms each day, and I am deeply grateful.

While you may not always see the full fruit of your labour, you are planting seeds that will grow for a lifetime and into eternity. Your dedication and influence reach far beyond the classroom, leaving a lasting legacy in the hearts of your students, families and wider community. Thank you for answering the call!

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Almost 50 people attended a special court ceremonial sitting in Bowen on Monday, marking the 150th anniversary of the supreme court in Bowen.

Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Queensland Helen Bowskill facilitated the event.

“This is a special ceremonial sitting of the supreme court together with the district court and the magistrates court,” Mrs Bowskill said.

“We hold this ceremonial sitting to mark and celebrate the 150th anniversary of the establishment of the supreme court here at Bowen.”

President of the Queensland Law Society Rebecca Fogerty also spoke on the events significance.

“Queensland, unfortunately, is not known for its enthusiastic preservation of historic buildings, I am grateful that this courthouse, perhaps one of the more charming in Queensland remains,” she said.

“More visitors to the town centre can miss its commanding presence.

“In a literal sense many of us here today have spent our careers in and around courtrooms, more importantly, for many others in this community the course of their lives have been shaped significantly by decisions made within these walls.

“This courthouse announces itself on the street scape to its presence and design as is a common feature of classical revival style, the straight lines and striking curves are symbolic of the hierarchs’ orders of the state reinforcing the legitimacy of its power.

“The use of concrete and stone connotes stability, discipline, social order, this is significant in a coastal location where most buildings from this era were made of wood.”

Mrs Bowskill concluded the ceremony by thanking everyone in attendance.

“Thank you all again for coming along to this important occasion I hope that the collegiality of traditionary on display here is evident to all of you. I’m always, on any trip outside of Brisbane, warmed by the collegiality of the profession that is on display, more so than ever here in a true generational sense.”

“I hope the lawyers take the opportunity meet with some of the not so young lawyers because it’s a rare feat for you to meet some of the people who have plotted the course up here in the northern part of Queensland.”

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Court in session
Smoking ceremony conducted by Randal Ross
Marking the 150th anniversary of the Supreme Court at Bowen

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Whitsunday Regional Council will be informing Whitsunday locals how to prepare for the upcoming disaster season at their annual Get Cyclone Ready.

Storm season starts on November 1 and the Whitsunday Regional Council want to encourage people to come to their events in Airlie Beach, Bowen, Proserpine and Collinsville to learn how to prepare for cyclone season.

   • Airlie Beach Markets
   • Bowen Markets
   • Proserpine
   • Collinsville

The events in Airlie Beach and Bowen will be live streamed.

At the events people will be able to ask various emergency services questions in order to get ready.

Whitsunday Regional Council Disaster Management will also be giving out resources on the day.

Most excitingly, people that fill out a community resilience survey go in a draw to win a generator.

How To Be Ready
Know your risk
Make a Plan
Pack supplies
Prepare an EVAC kit
Make sure you’re covered

More information about how to prepare for upcoming disaster season can be explored at any of the events by the Whitsunday Regional Council, or via their website, and or Queensland Government.

What: Get Cyclone Ready
Where: Airlie Markets
When: Saturday 26 October 9am – 12pm

What: Get Cyclone Ready
Where: Bowen Markets
When: Sunday 27 October 9am – 12pm

Proserpine Get Cyclone Ready event will be on Sunday 8 December, Collinsville event information to come.

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Cyclone Debbie in 2017 was a devastating cyclone to the Whitsunday community, Get Ready this season, Photo sourced

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Little boy Sprocky is nearly 11 months old now and is fully vetted. He's a Cocker Spaniel x Blue Heeler and is full of beans!

Sprocky is one smart puppy! He picks up training with ease and would do well in almost every family dynamic- couples, singles, empty nesters, families with kids.

He's a beautiful natured, inquisitive funny chap that's looking for a home with good fences and another dog on the property.  

Sprocket weighs 10 kgs and will be a small medium. He will definitely need a daily walk or swim at the beach and would shine brightly if he underwent more training.

He hasn't been tested with cats or chooks but we think he'd be fine once trained up.

If you'd like to adopt Sprocky email: bowencollinsville@gmail.com with your contact number and email address.

Rehoming fee: $650
Age: 11 months
Sex: Male
Breed: Cocker Spaniel x Blue Heeler
Other dogs: yes
Cats: untested
Fences: 5ft

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Have you ever had a hankering to learn to fly, join the RAAF or fly an airliner?
Following the success of last year’s Aviation Promotion Day, the Whitsunday Aero Club Inc (WAC Inc) is planning another information day for locals to learn about flying training requirements and opportunities, to be held on Sunday, 27 October 2024 from 9am at the Whitsunday Aero Club’s clubhouse, Lascelles Avenue, Whitsunday Coast (Proserpine) Airport (look for the building with the green roof).
With interest shown at last year’s promotion day, Mackay-based Wrighton Aviation established a satellite flying school, based in the Whitsundays, using the facilities of the WAC Inc clubhouse, with several Whitsundays-based students enrolled.
A representative from Wrighton Aviation will be attending this year’s promotion day to ascertain if there is further interest in learning to fly amongst Whitsunday locals. If this is you, please come along!
During the day, instructor Nick Wright will be available to conduct Trial Introductory Flights, which allow those interested, the opportunity to fly the aircraft with the instructor. Contact Nick on 0459 588 810 to book a flight.  A sausage sizzle will be available between 11.00 am and 1.00pm.
The Aeroclub’s Annual General Meeting will follow at 1.30 pm. All members are invited to attend the sausage sizzle and the meeting.
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For further information contact:
Alan Midgley (WAC Inc):  0428 746 716

WHAT: Aviation Promotion Day
WHEN: Sunday 27th October
WHERE: Whitsunday Aero Club’s clubhouse, Lascelles Avenue, Whitsunday Coast (Proserpine) Airport

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Aero Club

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The Shute Harbour Marine Terminal has been re-open since 2021, offering a Licensed Café with off premise, resort connections services, a multitude of marine tourism products and fuelling facilities.  At the heart of its offerings is the stunning penthouse style function room, perfect for hosting your next event.

Located on the second floor, the 344m2 private event and function space provides breathtaking views of the turquoise waters of Shute Harbour and accommodates 120 seated guests or 250 guests for a cocktail-style event.

Manager Aviation, Tourism and Marine Shaun Cawood said the event space can host a broad range of events.

“The airconditioned space has been extremely well received and we’ve previously hosted events such as school formals, networking cocktail functions, Christmas parties, conferences, product launches, long lunches and more,” said Shaun

“It truly is a versatile venue that can be tailored to suit any event,” he said.

The Shute Harbour Marine Terminal recently won silver at the Whitsunday Tourism Awards in the Tourism Retail, Hire and Service award, and Shaun expresses his thanks.

“The award is a testament to the dedicated small but amazing team at Shute Harbour, who always strive to deliver a world class experience for all guests and visitors of the marina and terminal.

“Special thanks also to all Shute Harbour Marine Terminal tenants and cruise industry who have assisted with the ongoing success of the Shute Harbour Marine Terminal.”

Kevin Collins from Fish D’Vine recently hosted an event at the Shute Harbour Marine Terminal and praised the venue’s setting.

“We did a wonderful lunch for a conference group who had to cancel a Whitehaven event due to poor weather,” he said.

“The Shute Harbour Marine Terminal is without doubt the best large facility in the region featuring stunning views, modern fully air-conditioned space for 120 guests seated, ease of either bus transfers or ample parking and limited impact of noise for entertainment.  

“We have a number of events and functions already in our system for this wonderful venue,  and Fish D’Vine is capable of doing buffet, banquet or a plated day menu.”

Whether you're planning a business event, a celebration, or a special occasion, the Shute Harbour Marine Terminal offers an exceptional venue that combines stunning views, modern facilities, and a highly experienced team dedicated to making your event a success.

The Shute Harbour Marine Terminal is open now for your next function. To book visit shuteharbourmarine.com.au/function-room

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The Shute Harbour Marine Terminal has been open since 2021
Host your next function at the Shute Harbour Marine Terminal with stunning ocean views

Photos supplied

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On Thursday 17 October 500 attendees comprising parents, carers, staff, and community members gathered to honour 190 students from years 7-12 for their outstanding achievements in 2024. 

Official guests included P&C President Brett McNee, Whitsunday Regional Mayor Ry Collins, and Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox, with apologies from Dale Last, Member for Burdekin. 

The school concert band performed, followed by keynote speeches. Mr Harris Principal's Address emphasis was placed on the collaborative effort behind the students' success, acknowledging the dedication of learners, educators, and the community. 

The school extended gratitude to parents, students, and local supporters. 

Congratulations were extended to all award recipients, with upcoming celebrations to include the Sport Awards on November 8th and Senior Industry Awards on November 13th.

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Cannonvale State School was buzzing with excitement on Sunday, October 20, as it hosted the inaugural Healthy Kids Expo. The event, aimed at "inspiring, educating, and elevating" children and their families to lead healthier and happier lives, was a resounding success. Around 150 attendees were treated to a full day of interactive activities, workshops, and educational exhibits from a diverse range of health and wellness professionals.

The Expo brought together experts from various fields, including nutrition, naturopathy, chiropractic care, physiotherapy, podiatry, psychology, fitness, yoga, and sustainability. Each exhibit provided hands-on demonstrations and practical advice for families on how to integrate healthier habits into their daily routines. From learning the importance of balanced nutrition to discovering fun and engaging ways to stay active, there was something for everyone.

Parents were particularly impressed by the array of activities designed to educate children in an interactive and engaging way. Kids were able to participate in yoga sessions, try out fitness challenges, and even explore the world of sustainable living through eco-friendly workshops.

Guest speakers delivered talks on topics ranging from strategies to limit social media  to the benefits of proper posture and the importance of healthy nutrition. Local businesses and health professionals also used the opportunity to connect with the community, offering free consultations and advice.

Organiser of the expo, Tim Oberg from Healthy Kids Project, said “With such positive feedback and high turnout, I’m hopeful this will become an annual event, continuing to inspire healthier living for years to come.”

Photos supplied

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The Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce held its highly anticipated Annual General Meeting (AGM) last Thursday (3 October) at Harrup Park, with over 80 local business people attending. The luncheon was filled with excitement and community spirit, as attendees, including Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson and Deputy Mayor Karen May, came together to reflect on the Chamber’s achievements over the past year and look ahead to a bright future.
The luncheon included an overview of the Chambers's accomplishments and growth as well as the challenging task of electing the new committee. The contested election had 14 outstanding nominees vying for the vacant positions.
“The strong field of candidates is a testament to the high level of engagement and dedication within the local business community,” said current Chamber president, Geoff O’Connor.
“It is wonderful to see so many keen to contribute to shaping Mackay’s economic future.”
In his Presidents Report, Mr O’Connor acknowledged the outgoing committee members for their dedication and hard work, thanking the four departing members for their valuable contributions over the past year.
Communications manager, Ellen Madden, said, "The number of nominees this year is a clear sign of how enthusiastic our business community is about continuing to build a strong, thriving Mackay.
“We are proud to see so many leaders stepping up to make a difference.”
With the new committee in place, the Chamber looks forward to continuing its mission of supporting local businesses, advocating for the region, and driving positive change.

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Ben Dolphin (Hello World) and Maree Frannetovich (Community Bank Sarina). Photo credit: Coffee and Hops Photography

David Tranter (TranTech Computers) and Scott Hession (Torrisi’s Garage/Volt Car Rentals)

Newly Elected Committee. L-R: Elizabeth Dent (DGL Accountants), Brendan Hughes (Enlightened Financial Solutions), Deb Rae (Deb Rae Solutions), Geoff O’Connor (SBB Partners), Berta Collins (Mount Pleasant Centre), Dannielle Woodward (Wallace and Wallace), Grier Williamson (Mackay Regional Council), Vicki Smith (CoolChain Mackay), Maree Sturdy (Treadwell Tyre Service)

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Last Friday evening, we had the absolute pleasure of celebrating 13 years of Core Magazine and over four years of Mackay and Whitsunday Life at Ocean International. It was a wonderful night filled with laughter, connection, and an overwhelming sense of community. We were incredibly grateful to have the support of local leaders like Mayor Greg Williamson and Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox, both of whom shared such heartfelt encouragement for our publications. Their belief in the importance of local stories and the role we play in keeping the region connected was incredibly humbling.
Mayor Williamson took a moment to reflect on our journey, highlighting the important role Mackay and Whitsunday Life plays in keeping our community informed, while also commending the resilience and commitment we’ve shown. Andrew Willcox shared similar sentiments, speaking about the strength of local media in uniting the region and ensuring that the stories that matter most to locals are told.
For me, the night was particularly meaningful. It was a chance to celebrate before heading into chemotherapy treatment number six (which, by the time you read this, will have been yesterday). The past few months have been challenging, but your ongoing support and kindness keep me going—and I couldn’t be more grateful for that.
There were so many highlights from the evening, but one of my favourite moments was sharing a little joke with the room: What’s black and white and 'read' all over? Mackay Life! It’s a simple reminder of how far we've come since those early days in 2020 when we launched the newspaper with a commitment to our community.
The journey we’ve been on with Core and Mackay and Whitsunday Life is built on that very foundation—supporting locals and telling the stories that matter. We’ve come a long way, but we wouldn't be here without you, our readers. Whether you pick up our paper every week or have been with us since day one, you are the reason we continue to do what we do.
Thank you for being part of this journey and for believing in the power of local news. Here's to many more years of sharing your stories and supporting the community we all love.
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Amanda

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In the past three months, 224 individuals have accessed Chances House for meals, healthcare and essential support.

As a crucial resource for those experiencing homelessness in Mackay, Chances House provides fresh meals and takeaway packs for weekends, ensuring those in need have access to food.

However, without the community's support, the organisation wouldn't be able to make such a meaningful difference in assisting the vulnerable.

As part of Anti-Poverty Week, Mackay Christian Family Church (MCF) recently donated 10 hampers for homeless individuals and families facing hardship. The team from Act for Kids played an essential role in delivering the much-needed hampers.

Chances House extends its gratitude to everyone involved in these contributions, recognising that together, they are making a meaningful difference in the lives of many.

A spokesperson from Chances House said “We’re proud to be a vital resource for people experiencing homelessness in Mackay, providing fresh meals and take-away packs for the weekends.

“Thank you to everyone who supports our work - you’re helping make a real difference.”

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Mackay Christian Family Church (MCF) donated 10 hampers to Chances House for homeless individuals and families facing hardship. Photo source: Chances House and Mackay Christian Family Church (Facebook).

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Last week, Vicki Blackburn and Chloë McCardel made a significant impact on local schools by holding presentations aimed at raising awareness about domestic and family violence (DFV). The duo engaged with students at Holy Spirit College Mackay, Catherine McAuley College and Kutta Mulla Gorinna Special Assistance School (KMG), where they shared their powerful stories in hopes of encouraging others to speak out and flee from domestic violence.

After the tragic murder of her daughter, Shandee Blackburn, Vicki Blackburn has devoted her life to advocacy. In response to this heartbreaking loss, she has become a voice for countless individuals whose stories frequently remain untold.

Through her recent presentations, Vicki seeks to educate young people about the signs of DFV, emphasising the need to recognise these warning signs early on to prevent further violence.

Guest speaker Chloë McCardel, a world-renowned marathon swimmer with multiple world records, has also faced the harrowing reality of domestic violence. Despite her outstanding achievements in the sport, Chloë’s journey has been marked by personal hardship.

Her presentation began with a reflection on her upbringing, where she often felt like an outsider in her family. Swimming became her escape - a place where she thrived despite the doubts of others. This determination drove her to accomplish extraordinary feats, including swimming the English Channel 44 times, cementing her legacy as one of the greatest ultra-marathon swimmers in history.

While pursuing her swimming career, Chloë endured a toxic relationship that led to severe physical and emotional abuse. Despite the trauma, she eventually escaped and now draws from her experience to raise awareness about domestic violence, specifically the narcissistic traits often presented by abusive individuals.

In addition to her remarkable swimming career, Chloë has coached over 150 people to successfully cross the English Channel and has become a passionate advocate for domestic violence victims. As an international keynote speaker, she strives to empower others to share their stories and seek the help they deserve.

“I left that relationship in 2018, i kept swimming...i got through the process of healing in those difficult years and now part of my healing is sharing my story and making a positive impact in the community by talking to schools,” shared Chloë.

Vicki said, “We must remember that the victim is never responsible for abuse.

“Shandee’s death lies purely at the foot of the person who attacked her and absolutely no one else.

“I’m here with Chloë to hopefully give the students an idea on how to recognise behaviours that are not appropriate and not acceptable and provide some information on where they can find support to get the help they need.”

Together, Vicki and Chloë are fostering a culture of awareness and support within the community. Their presentations focus on critical themes such as DFV awareness, prevention and available support services, emphasising the importance of recognising abuse and providing pathways to help. By informing younger generations, they aim to lessen the likelihood of domestic violence and empower victims to break the silence and seek assistance.

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If you need support regarding this issue, please reach out to the following numbers:
Kids Helpline - 1800 55 1800
1800 RESPECT - 1800 737 732
13 YARN - 13 92 76

Through their heartfelt talks, Vicki Blackburn and Chloë McCardel aim to raise awareness, educate youth on the signs of abuse, and inspire the next generation to break the cycle of silence and seek help. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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