A rural charity is encouraging farmers to reach out for assistance this Farm Safety Week.  

“This year’s Farm Safety Week theme is 'in safe hands',” Rural Aid CEO John Warlters said.  

“Rural Aid’s mission is to stand with farmers when they need it most.” 

“We’re encouraging farmers to register with Rural Aid, so that our organisation and its passionate donors, can support farmers’ wellbeing and safety with a hand-up.” 

Rural Aid’s range of assistance measures help farmers improve their lives and businesses before, during and after disaster events – be it drought, bushfire or flood.  

“Rural Aid’s mental health and wellbeing team do a fantastic job of heading on-farm to chat with primary producers, at no cost to the farmer," Mr Warlters said. 

“Our financial, water and fodder assistance provides urgent relief for farmers in need. 

“And our Farm Recovery Events supply farmers with a team of volunteers, ready to tackle farming jobs post-disaster,” Mr Warlters said. 

Rural Aid’s Mental Health and Wellbeing Manager, Myf Pitcher, said it takes strength to reach out for help.  

“We want farmers to treat themselves as their most precious business asset and be open to receiving help with their busy workload,” Ms Pitcher said.  

“One conversation at the right time with the right person can change everything”. 

“More than 18,000 primary producers are “in safe hands”, already registered with Rural Aid,” Ms Pitcher said.  

“Registering with Rural Aid means we can support farmers when they need it, now or in the future, and it helps us support rural communities as well.” 

“Please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us to see how we can help.” 

To register with Rural Aid, visit www.ruralaid.org.au or call 1300 327 624. 

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This week
Season to date
Cane crushed
51,322
90,771
Average bin weight
3.80
3.77
CCS
12.73
12.73
Cane variety performance for region
Variety
%
CCS
Variety
%
CCS
Q183
37.7
12.65
Q253
8.9
13.04
Q240
14.3
12.99
Q232
3.0
13.79
Q208
14.0
12.74
Q252
2.9
12.79
KQ228
9.0
13.85
Q138
2.5
11.53
Comments:
Plane Creek Mill processed just over 51,000 tonnes of cane for the week, bringing the season total to more than 90,000 tonnes.
Throughput was disrupted on Sunday and again on Friday due to powerhouse issues. The factory experienced a blackout on both occasions.
A planned 18-hour maintenance stop is scheduled for Thursday, 18 July.
Average weekly CCS came in at 12.73 units, and bin weight improved from the previous week.
The highest CCS sample of 15.50 units was from a rake of Q232 4R from the Dawlish productivity district.
Motorists are reminded to take care around our cane rail network.
Please approach all crossings with caution and always give way to cane trains.
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Lindsay Wheeler
Cane Supply Manager
Plane Creek Region

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Unions negotiating a new enterprise agreement with Wilmar Sugar and Renewables are consulting with members on a company suggestion that the parties accept an invitation from the Fair Work Commission for the assistance of a Commissioner in resolving issues remaining in dispute.
The invitation for assistance was extended by a Commission Vice President after a hearing of the Full Bench in Sydney earlier this month (5 July).
During last week’s talks between the company and union representatives, the company put forward the suggestion of taking up the Commission’s offer in order to move on from the continuing stalemate.
A company spokesman said: “We have been willing from the beginning to explore all options to reach a fair and reasonable outcome acceptable to all parties, and we have welcomed the Commission’s assistance in the past.
“We hope that union members agree with us that the Commission’s invitation is an opportunity to move forward.”
Company and union representatives discussed a number of options to close the gap between their positions. However, progress was limited to log items and not the key issue of the increase in wages employees might receive.
The discussion between the company and union representatives had been proposed by Wilmar before the Full Bench hearing.

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Well, just like that, my holidays have come to an end. I’m back on air on Monday, and I will tell you now, I am a little excited!
Sure, the last two weeks have been great. Sleeping in, movies, running training, hockey, weddings, fitness, and fun! All in the space of 14 days, I sure have packed a lot in.
Do you get up to a lot when you have a break? When you take holidays from work, do you hit the road, or relax at home in the garden? I hope you do, as it’s one of those things we all take for granted, but if we don’t do it, when will we?
During the past couple of weeks, I’ve had the fortune to get out of bed after 6 instead of just after 4. Let me tell you, it was a blessing. Sure, the alarm was turned off, but I still woke up at the same time but didn’t get out from the sheets. To me, that was special. Well needed, I reckon.
It certainly allowed me more time to go for a morning jog or fitness session with Steve Eden to get the day started, all while the sunrise was happening. I reckon it’s the best time of the day, especially along the Pioneer River. How good is it!
I’ve had the chance to catch up with my kids, head to the movies (you must see Fly Me to the Moon, it’s brilliant), and I’ve checked out the magical Cape Hillsborough and walked up to the various lookouts to see the whales and turtles. It’s just so good too.
Eungella is another place that looks so beautiful this winter too. Head up and see the elusive platypus at Broken River. If you can’t see them, just wait. Don’t rush away.
There’s been plenty of fun stuff happening these last two weeks. I’ve had some painting work done on the car (not my fault), I’ve walked Bucasia Beach a few times and tried to outrun two Labradors (they won), and I’ve also played a few games of hockey, one of which I nearly scored a goal in. Unfortunately, my hockey stick didn’t want to play the same game as me, so I missed and fell over. I’m sure the vision of the incident is on Kayo somewhere for a laugh too.
The big event of my holidays was the wedding of two special friends of mine, Emma and Andrew. They tied the knot Saturday last week at Greenmount Homestead in a beautiful ceremony that had hockey sticks, lolly rings, tears, and Harley Davidson motorcades. It was truly a special day to witness, plus being asked to be their emcee was the icing on the cake. I was honoured to be asked, and let me tell you, these two gorgeous people are just made for each other. The love they show for each other just shows that love still exists and is strong in these two. To Andrew and Emma, thank you for asking me, and here’s cheers to your lives together.
Well, I’m off to warm my rings and get ready for all the fun on 4MK from Monday morning. I hope I remember the password to the computer, remember to take out my hockey mouth guard, and I really hope I know where I left the coffee pot! I’ll need it!
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You can join Rob Kidd from 5am weekday mornings on 4MK 1026 AM in Mackay and Proserpine, 91.5FM in Airlie Beach or just ask your smart speaker to play 4MK on iHeartRadio!

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The Artspace Mackay team has returned to our regional gallery and is excited to be rolling out workshops, programs and activities once more.
Closed for refurbishments since late 2023, the facility now boasts new flooring, walls and a state-of-the-art climate control system, which will ensure it remains a AAA-rated, international standard gallery space long into the future.
Kicking off at 1pm, Friday, July 19, will be Conversations with Art, a free and enjoyable discussion led by Artspace staff about works and images from gallery and museum collections.
Then, on Tuesday, July 23, Artspace Mackay’s ever-popular toddlers’ program, BMA Kidspace, will return to the gallery.   

BMA Kidspace gives children up to five years of age a chance to explore and have fun with art in a climate of co-operative learning.
The free program includes two drop-in art sessions, from 10am to 11.30am and 12.15pm to 2pm, and free live music entertainment, from 11.30am to 12.15pm.
For the older kids – those aged eight to 12 – Kids Art Club (term 3) starts in the gallery from July 27.
The term includes six weeks of Saturday art classes led by local artist Traci Lietzke, running from 10am to noon. Book your child’s spot today at artspacemackay.com.au
Finally, at 5.30pm on Thursday, August 1, Artspace Mackay is offering a special event – an art talk by Susi Muddiman OAM.
Susi Muddiman is the Gold Coast Home of the Arts (HOTA) Gallery and Visual Arts Director.
She is in town to judge Mackay Show Association’s renowned Woollam Art on Show Awards and has agreed to appear at Artspace Mackay to give a talk about star pieces in HOTA’s exciting art collection.
Friday, August 9, Artspace will reopen its gallery doors with an exciting suite of exhibitions celebrating the very best of Australian contemporary art... proppaNOW: OCCURRENT AFFAIR; Dias Prabu: RELENTLINES - Through the Window of the Past; and Lisa Ashcroft: The Wall - Scientific Reef Repeat.
To take part in any of these programs and activities – other than BMA Kidspace, which is a drop-in activity – head to artspacemackay.com.au and secure your spot.

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Life changed significantly for 11-year-old Callum Brown when he was diagnosed with diabetes; but a new program is helping kids like him feel supported at school and giving their parents peace of mind.
Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) is one of two pilot sites outside of Brisbane to run the Diabetes in Schools program, an information and training program designed to help schools better support students with Type 1 diabetes.
Callum, a Year 6 Emmanuel Catholic College student, was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at age nine after serious complications put him in a coma in the intensive care unit at Mackay Base Hospital.
During National Diabetes Week (14 to 20 July), Callum’s mum Jordan Martin recalled his diagnosis in November 2022, describing it as “traumatic and very stressful”.
“Managing his diabetes now is a 24/7 job and it impacts everything Callum does from what he eats to the sports he plays as well as the other activities he can participate in at school,” Jordan said.
“As parents, it’s scary to send your child to school and hand over his care to someone else. It’s very important that Callum is healthy and supported both at home and at school so he can achieve and enjoy school like any other child.”
The program provides access to a range of tools, resources, information and support as well as face-to-face practical training by qualified health professionals including Mackay HHS diabetes educator Yolanda Gibbons.
The program eased the anxiety of families in knowing that a range of staff at their child’s school were trained and knew what to do and how to help when needed, Yolanda said.
“We currently have 105 diabetic patients aged from one to 20 across the Mackay HHS requiring different levels of support, but this particular program focuses on children attending primary and high school,” she said.
“All school staff can be trained across a range of topics including administering insulin, what to do if the child’s blood sugar levels are too high or too low and how to use a variety of insulin pumps.”
Jordan said it was an enormous relief to know the training was available and that Emmanuel College had been “fantastic and supportive” about staff taking advantage of the education program.
“It means we are less anxious and know that the school staff are comfortable and confident in managing Callum’s condition,” she said.
Callum now wears a Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) which tracks his glucose levels, day and night. The unit sounds an alarm if his blood glucose levels are changing rapidly, Jordan said.
“Callum still has to check his levels before he eats and then calculate how many carbs are in his next meal to program it into the CGM,” she said.
“I had originally worried he wouldn’t advocate for himself, but Callum knows his symptoms sometimes before they even register on the CGM and he tells the teacher when he doesn’t feel great so they can help him.
“He is coping well and is confident in telling people at school what he needs so they can help.”
Mackay Base Hospital paediatrician Dr Shaun Cousen said the education program improved the care available to Type 1 diabetic children in rural and regional centres.
“This program is funded by the National Diabetes Service Scheme through the Queensland Children’s Hospital and is run locally by a qualified diabetic educator,” he said.
“Mackay is very lucky to be selected as one of only two pilot sites across the entire state and we have received some fantastic feedback from schools as well as children and their families.”
The Diabetes in Schools program is funded by the Australian Government through the National Diabetes Service Scheme to help kids with Type 1 diabetes thrive at school.

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11-year-old Mackay schoolboy Callum Brown wears a Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) to track his blood glucose levels

I’m a big fan of liberalism and the central belief of that philosophy that focuses on the individual and his/her rights in a capitalist, free market democracy.
However, I am clearly in the minority as the world increasingly defines people by the group to which they are seen to belong: if you are black or gay or Muslim or a woman, for example, you are allocated your group and the world is somehow supposed to view you through that lens rather than as the individual you are with your own specific views, interests, desires and expectations.
I won’t go too far into that philosophical discussion except to admit I am part of the most offensive of all groups; white, middle-aged, middle-class men. Disgusting pigs!
There was a time when the only group categorisation I knew of, apart from male and female, was Baby Boomers. There were Baby Boomers and there was everyone else.
Later the marketing people/social demographers came up with Gen X, then Gen Y or the Millennials, Gen Z … and on it goes.
I have to admit it is convenient to be able to use that age-based categorisation to assess the habits and behaviour of a particular group.
The ABC recently had a piece about Millennials in relation to real estate. It found that Millennials (born between 1981 and 1996) have been priced out of the market in big capital cities and are now looking to regional areas.
The report pointed out that the median price for a house in Sydney is $1.4m and this was forcing Millennials who live there to look for other options to buy.
The focus of the report was on one couple who have decided to buy in regional Lake Macquarie, where the median price is “just” $925,000.
The post-COVID, cyber-enabled world has created an environment where people can work from home and live regionally. That has allowed millennials to move to regional areas, become home-owners and, in many cases, keep their city jobs.
With Mackay’s median price of just under the $500,000 mark, it looks a lot more affordable than other regional centres (let alone capital cities) and there is no doubt this is driving the booming investor interest in our market.
We are also starting to see Millennials arrive and snap up properties.
The move to regional areas is having an impact on prices. The ABC report pointed out that the migration to regional Queensland centres has pushed up prices, in particular in the Gold and Sunshine coasts.
So what happens when the arrival of those Millennials pushes up the prices in those big regional centres in the south-east? Many of the people living there look further afield to less expensive regional centres to buy a home. Enter Mackay.
In Mackay we are getting price-pressure from investors who see terrific rental returns on affordable properties, Millennials and others who buy here because they can’t afford big city prices and, now, from people from the big regional centres. And then there’s the locals.
It is a dynamic environment with Mackay now very much part of the real estate story in Australia.
Mackay’s high rental yields, comparatively low sale prices, high income levels, low rental vacancies etc are all part of the story. I am not going to predict the future but I do know that local people who thought prices were too high five or six months ago and didn’t buy then are now in a higher market.
One thing locals do need to understand is that you are not just competing against other locals. It is a much bigger pool than that and the competition has money and sees this place as under-priced.

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Mackay’s Kutta Mulla Gorinna Special Assistance School is ready to grow following the State Government's granting of a 30-year lease for a new location. The school will be based on the site of the city’s old fire station on Sydney Street which closed in 2018.

This pivotal development will allow the school to expand and enhance its facilities, all aimed at creating a nurturing and advanced learning environment for Mackay’s youth.

Kutta Mulla Gorinna Special School specialises in providing educational opportunities for young people who have disengaged from mainstream education.
The school places a strong emphasis on understanding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, community connection, and delivering personalised support to its students.
 
Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert said that the Kutta Mulla Gorinna Special Assistance School holds a special place in the Mackay community, and this new location will provide unparalleled opportunities.

“We are committed to helping young people achieve their full potential, regardless of their postcode, and I am thrilled about the prospects this new facility brings for both students and staff,” she said.

“This is just another way we are engaging with at risk youth because we know education is so important for people’s futures.

“This new facility will also give the local economy a boost, supporting jobs and opportunities for local trades and businesses during the construction phase and beyond.

“It’s a win-win for our community, providing both educational and economic benefits.”
 
Resources and Critical Minerals Minister, Scott Stewart said, “This lease came about after I met with the school at the Mackay Community Cabinet earlier this year and is a great example of government listening to the community.

“This is what Community Cabinet is all about – listening and working with the community – and I’m proud to be part of the Miles Government that will continue to do just that.”
 
Kutta Mulla Gorinna School executive school director Justin Giblett said the Kutta Mulla Gorinna School has made a difference to so many young people’s lives.

“That’s exactly why it’s so important to find a new permanent home for the school which is continuing to grow,” Mr Giblett said.

“We have a major emphasis on engaging with young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and their culture.

“I’m so thankful for the Queensland Government to help us find a new home so we can continue to help support young people in their educational journey.”

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Members of the Kutta Mulla Gorinna Special Assistance School

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Hundreds of lucky locals and visitors were invited onto Cape Hillsborough Beach earlier this month, for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. 
 
Between The Tides, a signature event of QLD Music Trails’, The Reef Trail capped off its back-to-back two-night run with a headline performance by multi-ARIA Award winner, prolific singer-songwriter, Josh Pyke.
 
The QLD Music Trails is a program run by Queensland Music Festival (QMF) and known for using the power of music to create experiences perfectly unique to place. In its sophomore year, Between The Tides delivered two nights of music and yarns, with Christine Anu on Saturday night and Josh Pyke on Sunday night, for an intimate audience of just a few hundred on the sands of Cape Hillsborough beach, Yuwi Country.
 
QMF CEO Daryl Raven explained the importance of an event such as this.

“It’s incredible to come back to Cape Hillsborough and be with the Yuwi People again, welcoming us on Country to have these phenomenal events.

“We’re bringing significant artists, but more often than not it’s about the nature and the beauty of the place. It’s never been done before and we’re privileged to come back here and do it for a second year.”, he said on Saturday afternoon as the crowds started rolling in for the first night.

With a near-impossible task ahead of them, the QMF Team of experienced arts workers, together with Yuwi Corp, Rangers, and Cultural Guides, coordinated a full event bump in and out, quite literally between the tides on both Saturday and Sunday. 
 
With the commitment to leaving only footprints, the staging and audio equipment was strategically built on the sand as the tide went out during the day and was swiftly packed down as the tide rolled back in under the stars.
 
Each night featured a performance by Gunggari performer Lloyd Saunders in the Gathering Space, before Uncle Gary Mooney, Yuwi Elder and Traditional Owner invited guests onto the beach through a Smoking Ceremony, encouraging the crowd to remove their shoes to really feel the Country before being wowed by the Tchundal Malar Aboriginal Dancers. Mackay local and Lama Lama performer, Tia Gostelow serenaded the crowd as the sun set on both nights before headline acts.
 
Uncle Gary Mooney, Yuwi Elder and Traditional Owner acknowledged the significance of the event, perfectly placed ahead of a busy and celebratory NAIDOC Week. Speaking of the opportunity to showcase his Country to locals and visitors, he said, “I love it when a plan comes together, and I enjoy that.

“Everybody is enjoying themselves and having a good time, asking questions.”
 
Sunday delivered an incredibly unique experience, with Josh Pyke taking time to meet and connect with the Tchundal Malar Aboriginal Dancers during his sound check. An engaged lifetime Ambassador for the Indigenous Literacy Foundation and avid supporter of Indigenous music and arts development, this event provided a meaningful opportunity to connect with young artists and traditional stories.  
 
“Thank you to QLD Music Trails for putting on such a unique event and to the crowd for making the effort to come to this beautiful location so we can experience this together,” Pyke exclaimed on stage during the Sunday night gig. 
 
Shortly after, a true display of connection with Country and the Sub-Tropical environment saw a surprise shower come down that certainly didn’t dampen the crowd’s or Pyke’s enthusiasm. Taking a quick break to save the instruments from the wet, he returned to stage solo (although still accompanied by AUSLAN interpreter) for an altered, acoustic set to close out the special night.

The Reef Trail extended through paradise to the serene shores of Lake Proserpine last weekend. Hundreds came together for the final stop, The Reef Sundowner, a free event, which delivered on its promise of an afternoon filled with acoustic folk music and delectable local food amidst a breathtaking lakeside location. Trail-goers and visitors were invited to set up camp and spend the night at the nearby Lake Proserpine campground – flip over to see our article and gallery on page 21 in Whitsunday Life.
 

QLD Music Trails' Between The Tides event marked a historic convergence of music, culture and natural beauty on Yuwi Country, delighting attendees with its unique charm and scenic backdrop. Images supplied

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The brand-new VMR Headquarters was officially opened last weekend, with invited guests and dignitaries celebrating both a new era of operations and an epic history spanning an incredible 60-year period.
Guests were offered a tour of the newly expanded VMR facility which had been brought about following the consistent lobbying of both Member for Dawson, Andrew Wilcox and Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm.
The extension, which nearly doubled the floor space of the operational room, began in 2023 and is thanks not only to the politicians that advocated for funding but also the VMR volunteers and tradespeople that drove the project on the ground level.

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Volunteer Roger Wodson, Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Wilcox, Volunteer Marlene Manto, Mayor Ry Collins, Member for Whitsundays Amanda Camm, Volunteer Mal Priday. Photo credit: Ruth Puddefoot

A New Era Of Safety Begins
With Expanded VMR Headquarters Opening!

This year marks 60 years since the Volunteer Marine Rescue (VMR), began in a pub in Proserpine, back then, at the launch of Queensland's first VMR, the volunteers and founders could have never imagined how far the VMR would come.
After gaining a federal grant of $700,000 in 2023, the execution of the extension to the VMR headquarters began and has been completed just in time to celebrate the 60-year milestone.
Whitsunday VMR President, Mal Priday, enthused about how the expansion will be vital for marine emergency call-outs but also as a hub for many community events:
“The Marine Club is a very popular venue in the community and a community asset,” Mal explained.
Attendees at the opening included Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox, Member for Whitsundays Amanda Camm, Mayor Ry Collins, and Councillors Jan Clifford and Clay Bauman.
The day began on the lawn of the Marine Club in the sunshine where President Mal Priday welcomed attendees and speeches began:
“We are very proud of what we have achieved to date,” Mal emphasised.
“The support we get from the community is fantastic,” he added.

Rodger Wodson, a VMR volunteer who hugely contributed to the efforts to gain funding, followed shortly after, expressing gratitude to the government and Andrew Willcox for obtaining approval for the grant.
Mayor Ry Collins, also spoke at the event, and said the VMR Whitsunday building upgrade is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the local VMR team who have tirelessly served the community:
“With a new radio room with upgraded technology and meeting rooms that will be available for community use, the renovations will enhance their ability to provide critical maritime safety services for boaties,” he said.

Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm, then took to the stage to thank the VMR members for their tireless efforts in keeping the community safe.
After successfully securing funding for the organisation last year, Federal MP Andrew Wilcox, concluded the speeches and awarded the medals to four volunteers.
“The work that VMR Whitsundays do is crucial when it comes to keeping out boasties and fishers safe on the water, which is why I was incredibly proud when the previous Coalition Government committed to supporting this invaluable organisation and their volunteers, and I am honoured to be here today to officially open the new operations and training centre,” Mr Willcox began.
Federal MP Andrew Wilcox officially opened the new headquarters with the cutting of a ribbon, before, individuals were invited to view the new headquarters, and enjoy some refreshments downstairs.  
VMR President Mal Priday, enthused over the day's events and stated:
“It's been a long, long process. But with support that we got from all sides of government; we've made it we've got it.”

Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox and Mayor Ry Collins with the volunteers from VMR Whitsundays. Photo credit: Ruth Puddefoot
Mal Priday President of VMR Whitsundays, Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox, volunteer Rodger Wodson and Member for Whitsundays Amanda Camm
The new control headquarters. Photo credit: R Jean Photography
VMR Whitsundays’ volunteers. Photo credit: R Jean Photography

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Hi Everyone,

I came home this evening and for some unexplained reason I felt an overwhelming sense of sadness wash over me.

I can’t place the exact feeling, just a heavy weight of negative thoughts – I’m a terrible boss, I don’t have time for anyone! I am a terrible mum, I have no energy left at the end of the day! That sort of thing.

Each thought compounded and all of a sudden, my life was terrible and I was feeling fairly depressed.

Fortunately, I have learnt over the years that it is better to sit in your feelings rather than push them down or dismiss them. When you do this, they will soon depart.

So, I allowed myself to feel it. Work through it and give it the respect it deserved.

Of course, I had no reason to feel ‘down’ this evening. My life is pretty perfect – I have a family who loves me, a partner who adores me, friends that think I’m cool and a job I love.

With all these life goals already ticked – what did I have to be sad about?

Well, that’s the thing with life, and something I was reminded about again today when I chatted with Matt from Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN).

It’s not about needing a reason to work on your mental health, it’s about committing to an ongoing relationship with yourself, a relationship that needs constant nurturing.

When I spoke to Matt today, I loved hearing about the recent ‘Legends’ night where famous sports players and community heroes shared their mental health journeys.

It reminded me that there is power in prevailing and strength in showing vulnerability.

When I got home tonight and felt a little sad, it was comforting to draw upon thoughts of these inspiring people and I was able to relate to the story I’d just written – it really helped.

This is what I believe is so special about WSPN, they simply want everyone to know they are here and that you are not alone – put your hand up and talk – you will be heard.

Rach

Quote of the Week: “Almost anything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you” (Anne Lamott)

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In a display of community support, locals gathered from all walks of life to extend a helping hand at the Drug ARM Street Outreach Service in Airlie Beach.

On board with the powerhouse team was Shirley from Whitsunday Housing Company Limited, providing essential accommodation and wellbeing support.

Isaac from YWAM (Youth with a Mission – Whitsundays) ensures ongoing care and collaboration throughout the week, addressing various needs from housing to mental health services.

Patrick from Airlie Beach Crew also joined in, bringing his personal connection with homelessness to assist with the day’s BBQ.

Two ambulances were also present.

“We’ve recently had a bit to do with the QAS here with various events happening where our people have needed assistance,” said Mental Wellness Coach and Mentor, Barb Hill.

Her involvement along with Real Mates Talk and Family Support Facilitator for Drug ARM ensure that all bases are covered with a readiness to support those in need.  

With an outpour of community donations and a number of personal hygiene packs gifted from Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, the team are beyond grateful for all the support they have received.

“I appreciate everyone who supports what we do, from the bottom of my heart a big THANKYOU! We live in such an amazing community,” Barb added.

“If you or someone you know is doing it tough at the moment, please send them to join us on Mondays, no judgement, no pressure, just yarns, food, laughs and connection.”

The Drug ARM Street Outreach Service in Airlie is every Monday from 11am to 12:30pm at the Lagoons carpark and up at the BBQs at the point.

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Compassionate locals and respected community services gathered together in support of the Drug ARM Street Outreach Service last Monday. Image source: Barb Hill Coaching & Mentoring (Facebook)

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Over $20,000 was raised for the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN) event held in Cannonvale over the weekend but volunteer Matt Stokes said the fact that people knew the organisation was present within the community was even more valuable.

“Raising community awareness that we are here to talk was the biggest value of the night,” he expressed.

WSPN is an active charity organisation which is dedicated to raising awareness about suicide prevention and helping those impacted.

Any money donated goes directly to three key local initiatives; giving families effected by suicide free and immediate counselling when they need it most, school-based programs that educate children about mental health and weekly free breathwork sessions that help people with staying calm and present.

Each year WSPN hold regular fundraising events and last weekend’s ‘Legends on the Field,’ was a huge sell-out success with 130 people present on the night.

Attracting an all-star cast of speakers, NRL legend, Shane Webcke, former AFL player Peter ‘Spida’ Everitt, Brant Webb, and Rob Payne owner of Mark Twain yacht, each spoke about their experiences.

The evening was full of raw and powerful stories where each of the speakers shared details about their personal journeys.

Take-home advice included “put your hand up and talk” right through to mindset and an understanding that “life isn’t fair and it’s pretty tough getting up and doing the grind, but if you scratch beneath the surface most people are feeling the same.”

Speaker Brant Webb, who is one of the miners trapped at Beaconsfield Gold Mine in Tasmania in 2006, explained what was running through his head during the incident but also said his main battle was after the event.

“He was fine for many years,” said Matt.

“Then he was hit with medical anxiety and couldn’t physically het himself to work – he offered practical tips for getting back again.”

During the evening Matt Stokes also gave an insight into how WSPN actively helps the community and two courageous community members shared their own accounts of personal battles.

“They talked about their lived experiences, and it was heartbreaking,” explained Matt.

“But it was worth so much to see their raw emotion.”

WSPN’s next event is on September 10 on World Suicide Prevention Day, and they will be launching a Shine The Light Program and conducting a memorial service with blue lights on the Fig Tree on the Airlie Beach Foreshore at dusk.

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The dedicated volunteers and guest speakers at the ‘Legends on the Field’ event held at the Reef Gateway last weekend. Photo credit: Tropix Photography

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Four, two-bedroom units in Bowen are now under construction thanks to a $3.2 million government grant that was initiated by Bowen Community Centre.

Concerned about the shortage of suitable rental accommodation for working professionals such as doctors, nurses and teachers, the Community Centre decided to take matters into their own hands and apply for the grant.

“It is very difficult to get a rental in Bowen,” said Jacintha Bezgovsek from Bowen Community Centre.

“There is no accommodation for the professionals who service the community.”

The grant will be used to provide accommodation for professionals with the necessary skills to fill the gaps in the labour supply and ensure Bowen has enough front-line workers.

Bowen Community Centre is working with the Department of Education and local Doctors Surgeries and asking them to take the ‘lead’ on the lease to supply the units to their workers.

“Professional workers want a certain standard of building,” added Jacintha.

“And all that thought process has gone into the design of the new buildings.”

Each unit is totally self-contained and located in a gated community right in the centre of town on Kings Street.

Titled the Yaringa Housing Project, it is estimated that construction will take around 12 months.

Bowen Community Centre said it is delighted to reveal that local Bowen builder, Lowcock Builders, has been selected as the successful tenderer for this significant project.

“Their expertise and commitment to quality align perfectly with our vision for this initiative,” said Stephanie Cora from the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre.

The Chairperson of the Bowen Community Centre Christine Coventry added:

"This is what we wanted to achieve, and our motto here at the centre is that every dollar stays in our town."

“This project exemplifies our dedication to reinvesting in our community and ensuring that the benefits of such developments are felt locally.”

“This housing project is a testament to our commitment to providing essential support for the professionals who serve our community tirelessly.”

“We are excited to see the positive impact these new residential units will have on the lives of our frontline and professional workers.”

Funding for this project was announced in the recent State Budget and is part of the Resources Community Infrastructure Fund - Round 3.
 

The group from Bowen Community Centre and Lowcock Builders standing at the site where the four two-bedroom units will soon stand. Photo supplied

Shock news ricocheted across the tourism industry earlier this month when Tourism Whitsundays CEO Rick Hamilton left the top job citing, “personal reasons,” for his sudden departure.

Rick leaves behind him a legacy of success spearheading initiatives that significantly increased visitor engagement and overnight visitor expenditure.

Under his tenure, the Whitsundays reached a record-breaking $1.6 billion for the year ending in March 2023.

He will also be remembered for his work advocating for and supporting infrastructure projects that have improved accessibility and amenities for tourists, and significantly increasing the membership base, fostering collaboration and support within the local tourism community.

He was also dedicated to enhancing and attracting funding opportunities and connections within local, state, and federal governments.

Julie Telford, Chair of the Board, stated, "It is with great sadness that we announce the departure of our CEO.”

“Rick has decided to resign for personal reasons, intending to relocate back to Brisbane to be closer to family. We understand and respect Rick's reasons for this decision.”

“His vision and dedication will leave a lasting impact on our organisation and the region. The Board of Tourism Whitsundays is grateful for his achievements during his tenure and wishes Rick all the best. As the Chair of the Tourism Whitsundays Board, it has been an absolute pleasure working with Rick."

The Board of Tourism Whitsundays are currently searching for a new CEO and in the meantime Chair Julie Telford and Deputy Chair Tom Young are overseeing operations.

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Rick Hamilton former CEO of Tourism Whitsundays. Photo supplied

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