The tragic death toll in our region has sadly risen again this week following a road accident on Sunday evening that claimed the life of a 22-year-old woman.

On Sunday 15 September at 5pm a 61-year-old Bowen man was travelling in a silver Rodeo North on the Bruce Highway, and in the initial police investigation, it appears to have veered onto the wrong side of the road.

The silver Rodeo collided head on with a black BMW, driven by a 22-year-old female who tragically lost her life as a result to the traffic crash.

The 61-year-old male is in critical condition at Mackay Based Hospital.

It is believed the female was traveling from Townsville to her residence in Mackay, and the male was returning to Bowen from the Nebo area.

The Queensland Police forensic crash unit conducted an investigation on-scene but now need to conduct follow up investigations before a conclusion is drawn.

Whilst the initial investigation took place, the Bruce Highway was closed and emergency services put a diversion in place with assistance from the Whitsunday Regional Council.

So far this year there have been 13 fatalities on the road in the Mackay and Whitsunday region, resulting in 17 people losing their lives.

Inspector Glenn Cameron said, “It is tragic circumstances and that’s why we are imploring with every member of the public, drive to the conditions, drive to your own conditions, be safe on the road we want to see people get to their destination safely.”

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Wilmar Workers' Pay Dispute Comes To An End

In a decisive turn of events, the long-standing and contentious pay dispute between Wilmar Sugar and its employees has finally reached a resolution, paving the way for significant wage increases and bonuses. Growers can now breathe a sigh of relief, as the resolution ensures that the threat of disruptive industrial action will no longer jeopardise their crucial crops.

A majority of Wilmar Sugar and Renewables employees has voted in favour of a new enterprise agreement (EA) offering an upfront $2,500 bonus and 16 per cent in wage rises. Fifty-five per cent of eligible employees who participated in the ballot voted in favour of the company’s three-year offer.

The two-day ballot closed at 3pm today. The majority yes vote means more than 1,320 employees will receive the bonus and a 12 per cent increase in pay by Christmas, with a further 4 per cent increase next December.

A company spokesman said the positive ballot result brings to a close a challenging and long-running negotiation and associated disruptive industrial action.

“We thank everybody who participated in the ballot, particularly those who voted to accept the company offer,” he said.

“It draws a line under a period that impacted not only our business and our people, but the growers and harvesting operators who are so critical to the sugar supply chain.

“The focus now is on getting this year’s crop harvested and producing high-quality sugar for customers in domestic and export markets.”

CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens has urged Queensland’s sugarcane industry to pull together, following the resolution of the long-running pay dispute between Wilmar Sugar and three unions representing mill workers.

Workers at the company’s nine Queensland sugar mills voted over the past 48 hours to accept a new Enterprise Agreement put forward by Wilmar Sugar and Renewables last week.

“It’s great to have this issue finally resolved in a way that is acceptable to both the workers and the mill,” Mr Menkens said.

“It has dragged on for far too long, has delayed cane crushing across half of the industry, and caused great anxiety to growers and harvesting contractors, so to see an agreement finally in place is a tremendous relief.

“Now it’s time to put it behind us, and for the entire industry to come together, support our mill workers and our contractors, and put our shoulders to the wheel so we can make the 2024 season a success.

“Let’s crush it between now and December.”

As of today, Wilmar’s eight factories have processed about 6.3M tonnes of sugarcane, representing about 40 per cent of the estimated crop.

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Police have charged a 29-year-old Bowen man following a fatal hit-and-run traffic crash that happened in Bowen in July.
Emergency crews were called to the intersection of Bootooloo Road and Wheelers Lane on Thursday, July 25, after a cyclist was located on the roadway by a passing motorist at 4.42am.
The male cyclist, a 69-year-old Bowen man, was declared deceased at the scene.
The cyclist was struck by a vehicle, which had failed to remain at the scene.
Following extensive investigations, the driver has now been charged.
Police will allege the 29-year-old Bowen man was the driver of the vehicle that struck the cyclist.
He has been charged with one count of dangerous operation of a vehicle causing death or grievous bodily harm and left the scene of incident without obtaining help.
He is due to appear before Bowen Magistrates Court on October 1.

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Mayor Ry Collins is hosting his first Mayor’s Charity Ball on September 21, with a new and exciting addition to the evening set to dazzle the audience with a special ‘After Dark’ party experience.

For the first time ever, guests can decide whether they want to indulge in the decadent Gala Dinner which includes a gourmet three course meal, or would prefer to delight in the ‘After Dark Experience’, where the party atmosphere encourages everybody to dance the night away.

Mayor’s Ball Boasts New Addition . . . And We’re All invited!

A special ‘After Dark Experience’ is set to reach high in the sky and become a stilted affair where fire twirls and the night’s sky is aflame with colour and passion.

Dare to join the ‘After Dark Experience’ and prepare to be mesmerised by the enigmatic performances of some of the country’s most skilled entertainers, brought to the Whitsundays for one night only.

Shrouded in mystery to keep the full show a surprise, Whitsunday Regional Council have released a few slices of information to get the community excited about what is in store.

The ‘After Dark Experience’ tickets give you entry to a special surprise show, plus so much more!

The night begins with a touch of elegance as guests receive a glass of champagne on arrival, followed by exquisite bites of gourmet canapés that delight the senses.

The bar is open all night long, with unlimited beer, wine and cider from 8pm to midnight,

You’ll be dancing all night with live music by 1RAR Band and DJ Cue – enjoy incredible live performances and top-notch DJ sets.

Get involved with the fun charity activities including the charity Wine Tree and Mystery Reveal where you can discover hidden surprises.

This is followed by the Special Entertainment - be surprised by a thrilling, exclusive performance that will dazzle and delight!

The night hits its final crescendo with a fireworks grand finale that’ll light up the sky.

Mayor Collins has chosen not one, but two incredible local charities for the Ball to support this year, with proceeds of the event going to BMA CQ Rescue and the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network.

BMA CQ Rescue is a community funded service that has been providing a critical, lifesaving service to visitors and residents across the Whitsunday Region for over 27 years.

Meanwhile, the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN) works tirelessly to provide support, education and intervention to prevent suicide and offer hope to those struggling with mental health issues.

Mayor Collins has also expressed his gratitude to platinum sponsors and event partners Hillery Group, Abbot Point Operations and Airlie Beach Hotel for their support.

"Without the generosity and support of our sponsors, this event to raise valuable funds for our two charities would not have been possible,” he said.

"The sponsors commitment to our community and willingness to support this cause have made a real difference."

"We are incredibly fortunate to have such dedicated partners who share our vision of making our Whitsundays a better place for everyone.”

WHAT: Mayor’s Charity Ball
WHERE: Proserpine Entertainment Centre
WHEN: Saturday 21st September
TICKETS: Gala Event: $295
After Dark Experience: $150

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Hi Everyone,

Last weekend I had the most fabulous time at the Whitsundays Writers Festival, and it was truly an event I’ll remember forever.

From my mum using the f-word when performing her poem ‘Don’t Let The Old Lady In” at the Poetry Karaoke evening, to having a lively conversation with New York Times Best Selling Author, Sally Hepworth – the whole weekend was magical!

I met too many inspiring people to count, formed connections from all over the country and locally I heard there could even be a new writers group formed as a result of the event.

Well done to the organisers, volunteers and committee members who brought this amazing event back to the community, I hope it continues for years to come.

Changing pace now, I wanted mention the recent assaults that took place at the public toilets on Cannonvale Beach.

As many of you would know, I live very close by and, when I heard one of the attacks occurred 200 metres away from where I had been sleeping just five minutes before my alarm went off, I felt deeply distressed.

Not only had I been unable to help the poor lady, I had also been very close to a dangerous criminal.

I felt even more distressed when our journalist, Ruth Puddefoot, informed me this was the second incident where a woman had been assaulted in the same location, just days apart.

Fortunately, a man had been arrested and we hope is now off the streets, but I couldn’t help but think that if we had been alerted to the danger and informed of the first incident, then the second assault could have been prevented.

Two lady’s lives have been changed forever because of these assaults, but if the community knew about the first incident, I can’t help think that people could have been aware to use more caution and be on the lookout.

If the newspaper can help alert the community to a crime, we will.

If anyone wishes to inform us of an assault, we will contact the police for an official statement and then publish a community alert with accurate information.

Rach

Quote of the Week: “No pressure, no diamonds” (Thomas Carlyle)

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In April this year Michelle Wardrope fell over on her driveway, resulting in her needing six stitches for the gash on her knee.

At the time, she had no idea this small fall was the start of an event that would nearly see her lose her life.

After the fall she travelled to hospital for stitches, however, she returned to hospital shortly after waking in her sleep with immense pain in her leg. Michelle’s health quickly deteriorated and was told she had contracted a soil-borne bacterial infection and only had a 2% chance of survival.

In less than 72 hours, the majority of Michelle's leg had to be removed, and eventually, the amputation extended further, removing her leg from the hip down.

Michelle had contracted a soil-borne bacterial infection from runoff streaming down the hill from the vegetation above their house and onto the driveway, where she had cut her leg.

This type of infection is extremely rare and extremely life-threatening, with doctors informing her that most people do not survive the first 48 hours.

Michelle knows she was very lucky to survive, but the journey was not over there, she has had to get accustomed to life with only one leg.

For the past few months, she has also had to live with a stoma, something she found uncomfortable.

Fortunately, this week the stoma was reversed representing one more step to the slow recovery to a ‘new normal’ for Michelle and her family.

Instead of self-pity, however, Michelle has demonstrated immense gratitude throughout the journey and most of this has been directed to the local community who she says has buoyed her recovery.

After coming out of the recent operation she offered her thanks again, proving how each well wish is a Good Deed in a small highly connected community like ours.

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Another year and another spectacular weekend at the St. Bebida’s White on Whitehaven Long Table Lunch.

Hosted by Fish D’vine, a spectacular array of fresh local seafood and sumptuous sizzling meats was served alongside crunchy salads and washed down with an array of first-class beverages.

Everyone had a wonderful time soaking in the sun and taking a dip in the refreshing turquoise waters of Whitehaven Beach.

Co-owner of Fish D’Vine Kev Collins had a great day serving everyone delicious food and offering special in-water service.

“White on Whitehaven is really about showcasing the very best of the Whitsundays7,” expressed Kev.

“Many guests come every year but a lot will come just once, to truly tick off a bucket list.

“Thanks to the hard work of so many individuals and so many supportive businesses and suppliers, we make this event look easy! We think of ourselves as the custodians of an iconic event, not the owners.

“White On Whitehaven is stamping itself as potentially the most famous long lunch in Australia and will ultimately be our company’s legacy.”

See you there next year!

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Kev Collins, co-owner of Fish D’vine with his wife Katelyn. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Queenslanders could now be hit with a $6,452 fine or $483 on the spot fine for discarding food, including fish frames, scraps and bait, in a way that may unintentionally attract crocodiles to a public place such as a boat ramp, jetty, pontoon or camping area.
Deliberately disturbing or feeding crocodiles could leave you with an increased on the spot fine ranging from $483 to $2580, with the maximum court-imposed fine increasing from $6452 to $26,615.
The Minister for the Environment and the Great Barrier Reef and Minister for Science and Innovation, Leanne Linard stated:
“Feeding crocodiles increases the risk to public safety as the reptiles loiter around public places such as boat ramps, marinas, and tourist locations waiting for a feed.
“Discarded food sources and habituation to humans can lead to changes in animal behaviour and are the main reasons for the removal of problem crocodiles outside active removal zones.
“These new offences and increased fines are designed to reduce the risks associated with deliberately feeding and interacting with estuarine crocodiles.
“People may think feeding crocs or interacting with them is fun or harmless, but experience shows that doing so increases the risk to public safety.”
Remaining within close proximity to a croc can now also land you an on-the-spot fine of $806 or a maximum court-imposed fine of $16,130.
Conservation officers now also have the power to direct people to move away from a crocodile to avoid any potential human-crocodile interactions.
Next time you consider venturing into croc territory, think twice and remember to always stay croc-wise.

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Remember to be croc-wise when in croc territory

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On August 21, local resident Danielle Blackie tragically lost her life in a house fire in Sugar Loaf.

Circumstances were not considered suspicious, and Danielle is remembered by friends that knew her best:

“At first glance Danielle Blackie was tough and feisty. She was a strong woman, a trauma survivor, and she could do anything and everything. Danielle was a diamond who sparkled at its best when surrounded by her tribe.

“Contrary to her sometimes rugged and brash exterior, she was a gentle soul, who brimmed with kindness, love, generosity and compassion.

“She loved music and the arts and was a creative designer and seamstress. Danielle was a devotee of Shakespeare and would recite lengthy passages from memory whilst acting out the scene. 

“She had a magnificently wicked sense of humour, combined with a down to earth and no-nonsense attitude.

“My favourite memory of Danielle is of watching West Side Story overlooking Sydney Harbour. She was holding a glass of wine, whilst perched on the edge of her seat, completely engrossed in the story.

“Without warning, a gunshot (from the Opera) rang out. Terrified, she screamed and yelled “f#@k” and the full wine glass flew over her shoulder showering the patrons behind. The ensuing kerfuffle stopped the performance momentarily! What a good laugh!”

“Vale dear Danielle, you were seen, appreciated and loved by those whom you touched. The world is a richer place thanks to you.”

Written by Jo Phillips

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Danielle at Mt Kosciusko “Mack-tacking” (her word for cross country skiing). Photo supplied

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Over 30 field staff from Wet Tropics Management Authority, Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, Biosecurity QLD, Marine Parks and Whitsunday Regional Council have completed a 3-day detailed Yellow Crazy Ant survey from 2 – 5 September at infestation areas within Conway National Park.

The aim of the detailed survey is to accurately map the infestation areas in Shute Harbour so a revised and cost-effective baiting Program can be implemented.

During recent years Council has noticed that the infestation and the number of Yellow Crazy Ants have declined due to the baiting Program.

Whitsunday Regional Council Natural Resources Manager Scott Hardy said,
“Multi-agency activities such as this don’t happen often, but it’s representative of how important it is to manage this highly invasive pest that has the potential to have significant impacts on biodiversity, tourism, agriculture and our lifestyle if left unchecked.”

“In large numbers, they can disrupt entire ecosystems with their veracious appetites and ability to create 'super colonies' across large areas, leaving heavily infested areas without animals, insects or native ants,” Mr Hardy said.

The Whitsunday Yellow Crazy Ant Treatment program has cost over $375,000 since 2019, with baiting completed at Shute Harbour, Mandalay, Funnel Bay and Woodwark.

Mr Hardy said, “Initial results from the survey indicate that our baiting program was very successful with only a few ants found in a small area of Shute Harbour, however, given small nests can quickly expand into super colonies, it’s important we stay vigilant and do our best to eradicate.”

Eradication cannot be confirmed until up to 5 years of detailed surveys confirm no Yellow Crazy Ants in the area, which is a testament to how a few ants evading detection can quickly multiply.

Mayor Ry Collins said, “Whilst we are experiencing success managing existing outbreaks, we want the construction industry and community to remain vigilant around new builds and existing infected areas to identify Yellow Crazy Ants and contact Council immediately if suspected.”

“We thank the many staff from all agencies that have helped us on the journey to date and hope to continue to receive funding support to manage this pest into the future, protecting our lifestyle, biodiversity and industries,” Mayor Collins said.

Further information on Yellow Crazy Ants can be found on Whitsunday Regional Council website. Baiting is not considered hazardous to people and animals.

How to spot a Yellow Crazy Ant:
   • Yellow to brownish ant with body about 5mm long.
   • Abdomen is dark brown, sometimes striped.
   • Legs and antennae are very long.
   • Body is long and slender.
   • Walking style is erratic.

Impacts:
   • Sprays formic acid, which may cause burning and irritate skin and eyes of animals and potentially humans.
   • Destroys or disrupts natural species, including native birds, animals and plants.
   • Can affect horticulture industries.

The Yellow Crazy Ant is a category 3 restricted tramp ant under the Biosecurity Act 2014. If you see any report the incident to the local Council.

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Over 30 field staff from a variety organisations completed a 3-day detailed Yellow Crazy Ant survey. Photos supplied

Yellow Crazy Ants can be very destructive to local wildlife

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Barefoot Medicine first opened its doors in September 2023 and have since dedicated themselves to community healthcare, celebrating their one-year anniversary this month.
To mark this significant milestone, patients, doctors, and staff came together for a cake-cutting ceremony which Owners Shane Howden, Margaret Kurzok, Tanya De Vries and Director of the board, Alex Kennedy also attended.
The relaxing nature of Barefoot Medicine is what sets it apart from the rest, the waiting room feels more like a living room and conversation hub, where patients can chat whilst waiting for their appointment.
While you can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the waiting area, the serene ambiance takes a backseat once you enter the consultation room, where professionalism takes centre stage.
The practice has two resident GPs who concentrate on general health care and two registered nurse practitioners. Barefoot Medicine also has a chiropractor on site 3 ½ days a week.
Shane Howden, one of the three owners of Barefoot Medicine, shared insights into their inaugural year and how exciting the journey has been.
“We've been on a journey, a great journey, with challenges at times and we've still got challenges as far as getting more medical recruitment to the Whitsunday region,” he explained.
While the atmosphere in Barefoot Medicine is unmatched, the regional location makes it a struggle to attract practitioners, highlighting a regional issue.
Howden went on to say “Our fantastic current GP’s and practitioners are a blessing to our business”
The nature of having various practitioners on site is to facilitate their aim to be a ‘one-stop shop’.
“We want to be a one-stop shop, so if you need to see a skin specialist or a chiropractor, we can refer you in house and everything's transparent, so all the data that we have, the practitioners will have access to, so it won't be a repetition of telling each doctor your history,” Shane added.
“In our second year, we'll be making rooms available for specialists, so people don't have to travel to Mackay or Townsville to see someone.”
Barefoot Medicine has been thrilled to see the success in their first year, including the loyal patients who continue to see Dr Andrew and Dr El.
“We knew Andrew was going to be good, and we knew he had a good following, but we're overwhelmed, we just had that many people coming in and so many comments on the street, in the town, as well as people talking about our services” Shane explained.
Happy 1 year Barefoot, and if you are a doctor, practitioner or specialist and fancy getting your toes in The Whitsunday sands, Barefoot Medicine would love to hear from you!

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Director of the board, Alex Kennedy and Owners, Tanya De Vries, Shane Howden and Margaret Kurzok
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One year anniversary cake cutting

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Lake Proserpine is quickly becoming the mainland jewel in the crown for drawing visitors to the wonderful Whitsundays with Council’s staged masterplan upgrades capitalising on the famed site’s natural splendour.
 
Council has now started hosting events at Lake Proserpine and one of the most popular has been our Kids Fishing Day which returns on Saturday, October 5 on the King’s Birthday Long weekend.
 
Lake Proserpine has become renowned as an angler's paradise, boasting the highest number of barramundis over one metre in length than any other impoundment in Australia.
 
At the Kids Fishing Day, local fishing clinic operator Mudskippa will be on-site with fishing education and activity stations, offering expert tips and tricks. There will be a casting competition and the children get the opportunity to participate in a special release of barramundi fingerlings, thanks to Coral Coast Barramundi, with a marine biologist on-site to answer questions. A variety of stallholders, food vendors, a jumping castle, and plenty of giveaways for the kids will be available on the day!
 
Council and Lake Proserpine will also launch a new competition - the Barra Cash Dash! Anglers have the chance to win big by catching the tagged Golden Barra, with a $20,000 prize up for grabs, or one of the two Platinum Barras for a chance to win $7,500 each. The Barra Cash Dash is designed to lure fishing enthusiasts to play, stay, and enjoy all that Lake Proserpine has to offer.
 
In social terms, the transformation of Lake Proseprine has been amazing since Council delivered the first stages of the Masterplan with the addition of camping sites, upgraded recreational facilities, overflow parking areas, pontoons for enhanced access between the water and landslide areas, an enhanced arrival and information facility, upgraded boat ramps and accessibility to rationalised water-based recreation areas.
 
These improvements have seen the area become a major tourism experience for travellers and locals alike, and it is certainly becoming a source of incredible pride for Proserpine locals.
 
Mark and Ilze are our amazing onsite managers at Lake Proseprine and their passion for promoting the stunning campgrounds and location in our own background saw them host their 20,000th booking in July this year.
 
In their words, “Walking around the busy campground and speaking to the many happy campers, we feel privileged and humbled to have the opportunity to showcase what camping in the Aussie bush looks like.”
 
These increased numbers have a great flow on effect to the businesses, not only in Proserpine, but the wider Whitsundays Region. Everything at Lake Proserpine is a great addition to the wonderful Whitsunday Region.
 
“It’s a land-based destination, which is totally different to the beaches and islands, and caters for a completely different kind of holiday maker.”

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The Bowen Community Garden Working Bee is scheduled for this weekend Saturday 14 September from 7am at Bowen Community Garden.

The Working Bee, organised by Stella Life, is aimed to build the Bowen Community Garden into a lush space for all to enjoy.

Stella Community is excited to share the progress of the Bowen Community Garden, a groundbreaking project for this community aimed at creating an inclusive and vibrant green space for all to gather, learn, and connect with nature.  

The Stella Community are starting to celebrate the early successes of the garden and are excited to invite the community to the second Working Bee, a pivotal moment in the garden’s development.

Stella Community CEO Faileen James said “The progress we’ve made so far is a testament to the community’s enthusiasm and support.”

“We are thrilled to see the garden taking shape and look forward to seeing everyone at our second working bee to help further this wonderful project.”

Director Bruce Button added that the initial steps are just the beginning.

“We’re excited to engage even more with the community at our upcoming working bee and continue building on the progress we’ve made,” said Bruce.

Join the fun on 14 September to help shape the future of the Bowen Community Garden and be a part of creating a space that will benefit our entire community.

What: Working Bee
Where: 65 Williams Street, Bowen
When: Saturday 14 September, 7am – 10am

Faileen and volunteers from the first Working Bee
Garden beds

Photos supplied

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The Zonta Club of Bowen successfully hosted a STEM Workshops for Girls event on August 17th.
These workshops, which focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, featured engaging activities specifically designed for girls in grades 5 to 7.
“It was wonderful to see the 37 girls who attended so attentive, engaged and participating in the activities,” Cath Morgan said.
Facilitator Keziah Furnell from STEM Sisterhood (Townsville) along with her assistants ran a series of hands-on workshops, including Engineering where the girls worked in a team to design and build catapults.
They also enjoyed a Sports Science workshop where they learnt how to make a bionic hand, heart and lung.
Why these workshops? The organisers aim to empower girls by instilling confidence in their ability to succeed and build successful careers in STEM fields. This initiative is especially important given the current underrepresentation of women in STEM careers.
Positive feedback was received regarding the excellent organisation of the day, the girls' enthusiasm for participating in the activities, and questions about when the workshops will be held again.
Keziah posted on Facebook, highlighting how amazing the Bowen group was and expressing excitement about returning to Bowen to engage even more girls in STEM.
The Zonta Club expects to be able to hold more exciting workshops in 2025!
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Zonta providing STEM workshops for young girls in grades 5-7

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Yellow Crazy Ants are a highly invasive species in the Whitsundays. In large numbers, they can disrupt entire ecosystems with their veracious appetites and ability to create 'super colonies' across large areas, leaving heavily infested areas without animals, insects or native ants. Whitsunday Regional Council is tackling this issue through an ongoing baiting program, with treatments completed at Shute Harbour, Mandalay, Funnel Bay, and Woodwark. The baiting process is safe and not considered hazardous to people or animals. For more information, visit the Whitsunday Regional Council website.

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