By Amanda Wright

In the fast-paced and unpredictable world of wedding photography, Nell Thomsett, the creative force behind Photos by Nell, has experienced her fair share of memorable moments. From hilarious mishaps to heartwarming surprises, Nell's journey behind the lens has been nothing short of extraordinary. Join us as we delve into some of her most cherished and unforgettable experiences.

Funny Mishaps and Laughter

During a lively photoshoot, Nell decided to capture the bridesmaids in mid-air, executing the famous Toyota jump. However, a moment of unexpected hilarity ensued when the bridesmaids forgot to let go of their dresses. Their hands instinctively flew up, resulting in a comical wardrobe malfunction. While these photos were promptly deleted, the memory of the laughter lingers.

Problem-Solving Heroics

Despite meticulous planning, weddings are not immune to mishaps. Nell's quick thinking and resourcefulness have saved the day on numerous occasions. One incident involved a mischievous page boy who managed to drench his white shirt in blue paint just moments before the ceremony. Thinking on her feet, Nell suggested the young lad wear only his vest, saving the day. In another instance, a bride's dress zipper failed as she arrived at the reception. With her trusty bag of tricks, Nell swiftly secured the dress with bulldog clips, allowing the festivities to proceed flawlessly.

Spectacular Backdrops and Breathtaking Moments

Nell has been fortunate to witness awe-inspiring scenes that enhance the magic of weddings. Aboard a tall ship sailing through the picturesque Whitsundays, she captured breathtaking moments where the sea and sky seamlessly intertwined, creating an ethereal atmosphere that elevated the couple's special day. Another unforgettable occasion occurred in Hervey Bay, where a storm gave way to a magnificent rainbow, framing the couple's vows with a symbol of hope and new beginnings.

Priceless Expressions of Love and Creativity

Weddings are a canvas for unique expressions of love and creativity.

In one instance, a groom serenaded his bride as she walked down the aisle, filling the air with a melody of pure affection and admiration.

Another unforgettable wedding saw the couple transforming their special day into a captivating musical production. They intertwined their vows with carefully chosen songs, creating a theatrical masterpiece that celebrated their love story. The first dance became a show-stopping moment, leaving guests spellbound by the couple's artistic expression of love.

On another occasion, Nell said she won’t forget the vibration and sound as a group of motorcycles drove into Queens Park to form a guard of honour for the happy couple.

Nell’s Biggest Tips

Having a list of family photos you would like for after the ceremony is one of the most important photographic considerations. Nell says this is one thing you don’t ‘wing’ otherwise it will end in a shambles. Also wear comfy shoes where you can, save the gorgeous heels for must-have moments.

Plus, pack snacks for the photo shoot - no one likes a hangry bride!

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Nell Thomsett, owner of Photos by Nell

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Whether you're a bride-to-be looking for a mobile makeup artist for your special day, wanting to add a nice sun kissed glow to your skin or getting those lashes & brows looking fabulous, Sandie Kelly of Sirens Tantalizing Beauty has you covered.

A passionate makeup professional, Sandie has continuously grown her skillset to incorporate any services a soon-to-be-bride may be looking for on their wedding day.

Specialising in bridal makeup, she also offers Eyelash Extensions and Eyelash Lifts, Hybrid Brow tint and wax, facial waxing, spray tanning, cosmetic teeth whitening, facial treatments and massage, taking the stress out of your special day.

“I make sure it’s a relaxed atmosphere and we have a few laughs,” Sandie said.

“I'm professionally trained and will excel to make your vision become reality.

“Each service is tailored to suite each occasion from using the best products to ensure everyone looks flawless, glamourous and confident.”

Sandie’s skills have seen her finish as a Bridal Makeup Artist finalist at the Wedding Industry Awards for Central Queensland two years in a row and she has just been awarded #2 Highly Commended for Bridal Makeup Artist in Whitsundays and Mackay Region earlier this month.

“I love my beauty business and I wouldn't have it any other way,” she said.

“What I do is fun and exciting but what I love most is getting to meet people, transforming them to radiate confidence and making them feel fabulous about themselves.”

Find out more about Sandie’s one stop bridal beauty shop at the Mackay Weddings & Events Expo.

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For every wedding celebration you can’t forget the bachelor’s party, better known as the Bucks Night.

One night of silly shenanigans before the big day, to celebrate the momentous occasion with some of the groom’s favourite friends and family. Here is our list of five exciting and unforgettable bucks night ideas:

1. Start the party off right and have a brewery or distillery tour. In Mackay alone, check out Red Dog, Sarina Sugar Shed, or Goanna, and have a taste at the best each has on offer.

2. Try some high-tension bonding at an escape room. Designed to get the blood pumping, an escape room is a great way to spend a bucks night, as an interactive and all-encompassing activity.

3. Hire a private charter and spend the night getting back to basics with a few beverages and good conversation. This is an opportunity for a chilled evening, hanging out with friends and family with good food and good company on the ocean.

4. For the adrenaline junkies, maybe a game of paintball or laser tag is more the speed. Other ways to get the blood pumping could include a few rounds at the driving range, or hiring some lanes at ten pin bowling.

5. A slower choice is a round of barefoot bowls, a great option for a relaxed afternoon that gets conversation going and the competition started for the night.

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Almost as important as the wedding, the hen's night, better known as the bachelorette party, is a great way to get the girls together for an evening of fun and laughter, celebrating the bride's happiness and relationship with her love.

Here is our list of five exciting activities for the girls:

1. Get behind the bar and learn how to make the best cocktails, or even play around and make specialty cocktails for each other. With fun and tasting cocktails a sure result – with some questionable mixes for sure – this is a great activity for a laugh.

2. Why not pamper the bride with a spa and beauty day? No one ever says no to a massage, face mask and a good relaxing mud bath, and what a perfect way to de-stress and celebrate. Don’t forget the manicures and pedicures, getting ready for the big day.

3. Hit the beach! Start the day by setting up a beach picnic with delicious finger foods, refreshing drinks, and some bubbly to celebrate the occasion. Decorate the area with colorful beach blankets, pillows, and tropical-themed decorations. Some giant beach games would add to the fun and frivolity.

4. For the artistic bachelorette, maybe a paint and sip evening is the right speed, where you have to test the depths of your creativity and artistic prowess while enjoying a wine or two.

5. A bit of a slower option is a high tea, set with delicious sweet treats and cute little triangle sandwiches, this is complemented with wine or tea (or both!) and is a great activity where each other’s company is the paramount entertainment.

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Gabby Marsh has a passion for designing elegant, extravagant and beautiful settings.

She turned this passion into Just Smitten Wedding and Events Hire not long after she married her husband, Aaron.

“I always wanted to be a wedding decorator but growing up in a small town, I didn’t really think it was possible,” Gabby said.

“When I was planning our wedding, I was missing a few things I wanted so I decided to create them myself and this is when Just Smitten was born.”

Recently placing top five in the Whitsundays and Mackay Event Hire Wedding Industry Awards, Just Smitten Wedding and Events Hire offers a full decorating service, the demand leading them to work almost exclusively with happy couples on their special day.

With a huge selection of furniture including tables, chairs and antique lounges, signage, arbours and artificial floral arrangements, Gabby and Aaron work with couples to create the perfect setting for saying ‘I do’.

With elegant designs comes genuine service and attention to detail, the personalisation of the experience making Just Smitten Wedding and Events Hire stand out.

“We only take on one client a weekend so we’re a bit more personable and exclusive,” Gabby said.

“We stay around for the ceremony, and we transfer all the client’s items from the ceremony to the reception to be reused so they get a lot of bonus value.”

Gabby and Aaron are part of a wide network of trustworthy wedding professionals including photographers, videographers, celebrants, DJs and bands -  meaning they can point you in the right direction for all of your wedding planning needs.

Contact them on 0488 690 090 or find Just Smitten Weddings Events and Hire on Facebook to find out more about their award-winning service.

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Aaron and Gabby Marsh. Photo supplied

A couple’s first dance serves as an expression of their unending love, so it’s imperative that it’s an important dance that means something to them.

Kelly and Simon Frazer of Wedding Dance Mackay specialise in creating bespoke wedding dances that are tailored to couples.

“We find out everything we need to know about our couples and create their dance based on their story,” Kelly said.

A dancer her whole life, Kelly met Simon at a social dance, the couple going from social dancers to coaches and choreographers.

Kelly loves to see the deeper connection couples make during their dance.

“They learn to trust each other through dance, they learn to connect with each other, they learn to move and work together as one,” Kelly said.

“I love the confidence we build in our couples.”

Celebrating its fifth anniversary, Wedding Dance Mackay was recently named the #1 dance studio in Whitsundays and Mackay by the Wedding Industry Awards for the third year in a row.

“To be nominated and then to win it for the third year in a row, it’s very humbling that our client’s feel that we deserve that,” Kelly said.

Discover Wedding Dance Mackay and meet Kelly and Simon at the Mackay Weddings & Events Expo where they will be offering an Expo-exclusive deal.

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Kelly and Simon Frazer met at social dance lessons

Wedding Dance Mackay specialises in creating personalised wedding dances

The Wedding Industry Awards, hailed as Australia's premier regional wedding industry awards program, recently took centre stage on Wednesday, June 7, during an eagerly anticipated virtual event to showcase wedding excellence across the Mackay and Whitsunday regions.

This prestigious occasion brought together the crème de la crème of the wedding industry, shining a spotlight on the remarkable talents and dedication displayed by professionals within the region.

As the wedding industry continues to evolve and set new trends, it becomes essential to acknowledge those individuals and businesses who surpass expectations, leaving an indelible mark on couples' special days.

Among the most fiercely contested categories were the highly sought-after titles of wedding photographers, celebrants, caterers, and makeup artists. These professionals showcased their exceptional skills, innovative approaches, and unwavering commitment to creating extraordinary experiences for couples.

The unveiling of the winners and nominees in these fiercely competitive categories offers invaluable insights for couples seeking the finest talents in the industry. It serves as a trusted guide, inspiring couples to connect with these exceptional vendors who have been acknowledged for their excellence. In this feature, we shine a spotlight on two local businesses, Just Smitten Wedding and Events Hire who placed in the Top 5 within its event hire category, and Wedding Dance Mackay, who took the top spot for dance studios.

The Mackay and Whitsundays Wedding Industry Awards celebrates not only individual achievements but also the collective success of the vibrant and thriving wedding community. It is a testament to the passion, skill, and dedication of the professionals who work tirelessly to craft unforgettable moments for couples in the Mackay and Whitsundays region.

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When it comes to saying "I do" close to home, couples are spoiled for choice with a plethora of stunning wedding locations in the Mackay region. From coastal delights to serene gardens, charming country estates, and breathtaking rainforests, this tropical paradise offers a variety of enchanting venues to create unforgettable memories. Let's explore the top five locations in the Mackay region to begin your happily ever after.

Mackay Harbour: Nestled along the pristine coastline, the Mackay Harbour offers a romantic backdrop for couples seeking a seaside wedding. With breathtaking views of the sparkling blue waters and gentle sea breezes, this location sets the stage for a truly magical celebration. Whether you choose a beachside ceremony or an elegant reception overlooking the marina, the Mackay Harbour exudes coastal charm and is a dream destination for ocean-loving couples.

Country Estate: For those yearning for a rustic and idyllic wedding, a country estate in the Mackay region is the perfect choice. Imagine exchanging vows amidst sprawling green hills dotted with cattle before watching an epic sunset. With their rustic buildings and panoramic views of the countryside, these venues create an enchanting setting for a fairytale wedding. Check out our article on Note Park on page 19 for more inspiration.

Botanic Gardens: Step into a world of natural beauty and tranquillity by choosing the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens as your wedding venue. With its meticulously manicured gardens, exotic flora, and enchanting water features, this idyllic oasis provides a stunning backdrop for your special day.

Cape Hillsborough: Embrace the captivating beauty of Cape Hillsborough for a unique and unforgettable wedding experience. Imagine exchanging vows on a secluded beach at sunrise, with golden rays illuminating the pristine coastline, the soft sound of waves as your soundtrack and friendly wallabies bounding along the beach.

Eungella: Transport yourselves to a magical world as you choose the rainforest in Eungella as your wedding destination. Imagine walking down the aisle amidst a canopy of ancient trees, with sunlight filtering through the leaves and the melodious symphony of birds serenading your union.

Each venue promises to create a truly unforgettable wedding day, capturing the essence of romance, beauty, and the natural wonders of this tropical paradise.

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Rustic charm on Note Park’s country estate

A verdant rainforest makes for a stunning photographic backdrop. Photo credit: Posh Photography

The Malta Garden at Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens is a popular ceremony location

It’s Yours – Don’t Waste It

Even though it is nine months until the next local government elections, I have noticed a considerable amount of electioneering is already happening.

Getting to the end of my second term I thought I might offer some tips and insights.

Firstly, your vote is YOURS. The idea of someone forming a “team” then telling you that you should vote for them is basically someone saying that their choice is more important than yours.

Another trap for young players is populist candidates talking about things that are NOT in the province of local government. Councils are strictly limited in our responsibilities by State Government. Any candidate that does not clearly understand the boundary of responsibility will be entirely out of their depth if elected.

Candidates who continually ask what you want should also be viewed with scepticism.

Merely asking this question with no commitment to deliver it is a well-worn political ruse and rarely any more than that. Apart from that, it is impossible to deliver what everyone desires, and the cost in doing so would be impossible to bear.

So, what should a voter do?

Acquaint yourself with the responsibilities of the tiers of government. This stands you in good stead to recognise cheap populism.

Look to the principles of those that are asking for your vote. It is important that a candidate be willing and able to stand alone if they think something is morally and ethically right.

While empathy is extremely important, that alone is not enough. Practicality and pragmatism are important, as is the ability to understand all aspects of complex issues. Financial acumen is entirely crucial. The financial matters a successful candidate must be across in council are quite intricate and complex.

Lastly, there is NO such thing as “free”. Anyone promising “free” is actually promising that someone else will pay – which is all very well, as long as you are not the one paying for someone else’s “free” stuff.

I am more than happy to discuss matters such as these with anyone who values their vote and anyone who may be considering running. It is well to remember, doing some things is easy… but doing them properly is infinitely harder.

Cr Martin Bella

Mackay Regional Council

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Anyone who plays a particular sport well knows that technique is a crucial element. If your technique is not up to scratch, you will not achieve at a higher level.

My summer sport was cricket and batting was my main thing.

There is nothing random about batting in cricket. You can have the best eye and the most competitive spirit but if your technique isn’t right you are doomed to failure.

There is only one way to hit a front foot cover drive:  Front foot forward and slightly inside the line of a pitched-up ball outside of off stump, head over the ball, front elbow up so that the angle of the bat hits the ball along the ground and all this done as your weight transfers to the slightly bent front leg as you hit through the ball.

You might fluke a successful cover drive once or twice with a poor technique, but you’ll soon be found out. Same goes for a square cut, a pull shot and a hook shot … there’s a technique and if you don’t do it properly you will soon be walking back to the pavilion.

I’m no golfer but, from my limited experience, I can see that technique is everything. My technique is crap and that is reflected with absolute clarity in how I play.  

I played AFL footy and, no matter how fast or strong or brave or competitive you are, if you don’t have the right technique for kicking a drop punt you are going to look like a fool.

Rugby league requires strength, pace, courage and general athletic ability but if you don’t have the right technique, whether that is passing, tackling, catching or goal kicking, you will not play at a high level.

Sport teaches us a lot about life and work.  It teaches us that effort is vital. Winners put in the effort. They work harder than those they defeat. The hard worker gets in the team and the hard-working team wins the comp.

But sport also teaches us that you also have to develop skills. You have to work on your technique, over and over again to elevate your performance to the highest level.

It’s the same in real estate. The hard worker makes more phone calls back to buyers and makes sure no stone is left unturned in finding buyers for your property.

But skills, or technique, also play a crucial role. How does the agent create a write-up? Is it engaging? Does it connect with buyers and attract the right ones to the property … the ones who will see the value and pay for it?

What’s the agent’s technique at open homes and private inspections? Has the agent got the skills you need to get the best result? There’s a lot more to being a good agent than giving you a price for what they think they can get for your property.

It’s worth asking a few questions about technique before signing with an agent who has given you a price you like for your property.

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The State budget was released on Tuesday evening and Treasurer Cameron Dick said the $12.3 billion surplus is the largest surplus delivered by any state government this year.

One of the biggest influencing factors were coal mining royalties which brought in an impressive $15.9 billion, far exceeding the predicted $5.9 billion.

A big focus of this years’ budget was the immediate relief for cost-of-living pressures with over 2.2 million Queensland households receiving at least $550 off their power in the coming financial year.

The government has also announced a record breaking spend on infrastructure, with $89 billion spread over a range of projects which include the Big Build Program which will see the construction of significant energy infrastructure over the next four years.

In addition, there is $751 million for a new housing program.

While the budget looks positive from a state level, the breakdown of investment within the Whitsunday and Mackay region is mainly centred around schools, hospitals, and preannounced projects.

This is the view of Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP who says she is disappointed to see a disproportionate amount of funding given to the region.

Mackay and Whitsundays only received $623.4 million in $20.321 billion Capital Program compared to Townsville that received $1.180 billion and Central Queensland that received $2.003 billion.

The sparsely populated Outback Queensland was the only other region to receive similar, at $675.8 million.

“Given the state government mining royalties that have increased by $8 billion, I am disappointed to see no funding returned to the region that creates that wealth,” she said.

“We have the smallest budget contribution, by region and this is the last budget before next year’s election budget, and I would have liked to have seen better.”

“It’s great to see they have announced free kindy but how are they going to deliver on that when we are struggling to find a skilled workforce and enough placements for kids?”

Ms Camm is also frustrated that infrastructure projects such as Hamilton Plains flood protection strategies have been completely missed in the budget.

“There is nothing for Hamilton Plains and no major road projects in our region at all,” she said.

“We are just not seen as a region that this government is willing to invest in.”

“There is a blatant disregard for the population growth we are seeing in regional Queensland, but I will continue to advocate for our fair share.”

State Budget Breakdown: How Will The Whitsundays Benefit?

Whitsunday Islands National Park - Ngaro walking track upgrade

$3.9 million out of a $5.7 million total spend to extend the Ngaro Walking Track in the Whitsunday Islands National Park. Part of the $10.1 million investment in Ecotourism and World Heritage Areas, delivered in partnership with the Australian Government.

Airlie Beach replacement permanent and auxiliary fire and rescue station

$2.3 million out of a $8.9 million total spend to continue replacement of the permanent and auxiliary fire and rescue station at Airlie Beach.

Proserpine Hospital

$4.4 million out of a $7.9 million total spend for the delivery of renal services, the refurbishment of the clinical assimilation training area, clinical assessment rooms, management office space and upgrade to the acute primary care clinic. The investments aim to meet the rising demand for healthcare in the region and ensure residents have access to a range of health services closer to home. Part of the Rural and Regional Renal Program.

Cannonvale-Jubilee Pocket 66 kilovolt reinforcement

$10.4 million out of a $30.4 million total spend to establish a new 66 kilovolt switchyard to provide improved network safety and reliability to the Airlie Beach and Whitsunday Islands communities.

Proserpine State High School

$808,000 to construct additional specialist classrooms.

Proserpine State School

$500,000 to upgrade an existing amenities block.

Collinsville Golf Clubhouse transformation

$50,000 out of a $452,210 total spend to upgrade the Collinsville Golf Club's clubhouse. The project will refurbish the bathroom facilities, install accessible pathways and doors, and a playground. Part of the Resources Community Infrastructure Fund.

Collinsville Football Clubhouse

$300,000 out of a $370,000 total spend to refurbish Collinsville Football Clubhouse to provide a more attractive location for clubs to meet and events to be held, supporting community engagement. Part of the Resources Community Infrastructure Fund.

Bowen Hospital

$637,060 out of a $11.9 million total spend for works improving patient flow and primary health care, co-location of the allied health services, refurbishment of existing wards and 2 new renal chairs.

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Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP says our region has been short-changed by the budget. Photo supplied

The Ngaro walking track upgrade receives $3.9 million

Local firies set to get new home with $2.3 million for new fire station in Airlie Beach

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In a mammoth record-breaking year, 74 cruise ships, with well over 180,000 passengers have cruised through the Whitsundays and checked into the Port of Airlie terminal.

June 17, 2022, saw the return of cruise ships to the region, post-COVID, which passengers eager to explore the Whitsundays and Airlie Beach, participating in local tours and adventures.

Cruise Whitsundays Sales and Marketing Manager Renee Branton-Brown believes the return of cruise ships to the Whitsundays is one of the key factors in the region’s growth post-COVID.

“Cruise ships provide a significant source of revenue to the Whitsunday region, in 2019, it was estimated that Whitsundays received a crucial $21 million boost to the economy through cruise ship visitation,” she said.

“With the approximate spend per passenger being around $200, it’s easy to see why these ships are so important to our local tourism industry.

“And after a record number of ships visiting the Whitsundays over the past 12 months, we expect to see the economic benefit to the region continue to soar.”

Until June 17, 2022, it had been 832 days since the last cruise ship had anchored in Whitsundays waters, with cruise ship travel being one of the last industries to return to operation following the easing of the pandemic.

Guests that arrive on cruise ships are welcomed by the volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors who provide information about the town, the services, experiences and activities available.

“A special mention of course needs to go to the incredible work done by the Cruise Ship Ambassadors.,” said Ms Branton-Brown.

“They show up to each cruise ship with a huge smile, ready to greet each passenger – they are indeed ambassadors for our entire region.

The team at Cruise Whitsundays is extremely thankful for their tireless work.”

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Saturday marks one year of the return to cruise ships in Whitsunday waters. Photo supplied

Cruise Whitsundays Sales and Marketing Manager Renee Branton-Brown with two volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

Hi Everyone,

This week’s edition is full of positive news which is always so great to share with you!

The mill is crushing, the boardwalk’s open, cruise ships are celebrating their first year back in business and Airlie Beach has just won Best Small Tourism Town in Queensland.

Earlier this week we invited a few representatives from the local tourism industry to a front-page photo shoot to celebrate the announcement.

I expected about seven or eight people to turn up and was amazed when almost 20 came along to celebrate!

It’s wonderful to see such enthusiasm and positivity return to our tourism industry and it is awards like this that boost morale for everyone.

Thanks to all of you who came along on Tuesday, the photo shoot was great fun!

As the winter months and its beautiful sunsets gain momentum, so too do our local festivals and events.

In this edition we include line-up announcements for the Airlie Beach Festival of Music, details about tonight’s Welcome The Whales event and the many more.

One festival that is particularly close to my heart is The Whitsunday Writers Festival which is due to take place next September (read the full details on page 11).

I was part of the committee many years ago and enjoyed helping festival founder, Gloria Burley, put the event together for several years.

Gloria sadly passed away in 2018 and since then the festival has lied dormant.

That was until a group of passionate locals tenderly took the reins and reinvigorated the event.

I am honoured to be part of the new Whitsunday Writers Festival committee and I am sure Gloria would be thrilled to see her much-loved passion-project continue.

Rach

“I have no special talent. I am only passionately curious.” (Albert Einstein)

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It takes a lot of courage to show our vulnerability and to reach out to strangers in the community and ask for help.

But this is something new mum, Amber Rosa-Salas has needed to do several times in the long journey to motherhood.

Amazingly, Amber discovered she was pregnant at eight months, and she was suddenly cast into a world of motherhood, one that she was not prepared for.

Having recently returned from travelling in Canada, she had nowhere to live and no idea about how to be a mother.

Since reaching out for support, she has felt the strong embrace of the community time and time again.

From the Whitsunday Housing Company finding her suitable accommodation, to the midwives providing her with essential items such as clothes and toys – the support has meant the world to her.

Most recently, Amber saw another element of community support shine bright when her fridge suddenly broke, containing all her eight-month-old baby’s food.

She reached out on social media and was deeply humbled when another mum offered to lend her one.

By emptying her own drink fridge to preserve another’s food, this mum’s donation shows a true example of self-sacrifice.

“The community have been really good to me,” said Amber.

“It really restores my faith in others. It was such a shock finding out I was pregnant at eight months, but since that moment, I have been really looked after by everyone.

“Thank you to everyone who has helped me through this journey.”

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From June 14 to August 16, parts of Kings Beach and access roads will be temporarily closed as the Department of Defence undertake their Exercise Talisman Sabre 2023 training exercise.

This will be the largest iteration of the exercise to date, and will include field training exercise, preparation activities, amphibious landing, ground manoeuvres and air combat.

This is an international exercise, with participants travelling from 13 different nations, including France, Fiji, Japan, New Zealand, the UK, Canada, and Germany.

Representatives from Thailand, Singapore and the Philippines will attend as observers.

The exercises will utilise Bowen’s Kings Beach for the duration of the period, with access closed, and other adjoining roads temporarily closed at points to allow vehicle movement.

Kings Beach from Sandhill Creek was closed from Wednesday June 14, 5pm and will open Wednesday August 16, 5am.

Denison Park Botanical Gardens was closed, from Wednesday June 14, 5pm and due to reopen Wednesday August 16, 5am.

Alongside Talisman Sabre 2023, the Defence Force will also conduct Exercise Sea Explorer 23 and Exercise Sea Raider 23.

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British Royal Marine Commandos patrol past sugar cane fields during Exercise Talisman Sabre 2021. Photo supplied