The Airlie Beach Bicentennial Boardwalk has been upgraded by Whitsunday Regional Council in stage 1 of a revamp for the popular trail.

The section between Coral Sea Resort and Coral Sea Marina has now been completely replaced and widened in order to improve user safety and enjoyment for all.

The old timber boardwalk material has been replaced with a composite fibre material with a 100-year design life which is not only environmentally friendly but is also rust, rot, and corrode resistant.

Further upgrades to the remainder of the Boardwalk will be delivered in sections subject to grant funding.

This initial stage was supported by the Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Grant.

For more information, visit our website: www.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au.

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The Whitsunday community received a behind the scenes glimpse into the inner workings of our local Disaster Coordination Centre at the inaugural open day held in Proserpine on Sunday.

Dedicated to raising awareness for how Council and Disaster Management Coordination Staff handle a natural disaster, the open day included tours of the centre in activation mode, provided informational talks and answered questions from attendees.

“The kids thoroughly enjoyed the dress-up,” said Disaster Management Coordinator, Sandra Black.

“And they even tried their hand at being phone loggers! It was great fun for all.”

Alongside the open day, the public are encouraged to complete the Community Resilience Survey which is located on Council’s Your Say website.

One lucky participant will receive a generator and entries close on June 26 at 4pm.

The Disaster Coordination team are a passionate group of individuals who love engaging with the community.

They were recently finalists in the Local Government Managers Association Awards for Excellence under the category of teamwork.

They show this quality time and time again in everything they do and most recently in their new jingle, with lyrics that aim to show the community what they do at the centre.

Sandra Black wrote the jingle, and the team created a music video which features Local Disaster Management Group Chair, Mayor Julie Hall and Director Adam Hagy.

They will use it for promotional purposes, and it will be available on the Disaster Information Facebook page for all to enjoy soon.

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Disaster Coordination Centre Manager, Sandra Black (right) with Emilie Large (Disaster Management Admin Officer).

Kids loved the dress-ups at the Open Day

Mascot Turbine Tentacles made an appearance. Photos supplied

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Did you know that the first Proserpine Show was held in 1899?

And that it was held on Mr John Compton’s farm in the area where Drakes is now located?

The “Port Denison Times” reported, “exhibits were housed in a building near the stables. Mr Jim Reid won the prize for the best cabbages.”  

It is believed that the original show came about after the townswomen visited each other for company and would often compare their home remedies, needlecraft and gardening leading to a competition between the ladies.

After seeing the women’s display, the men decided to have a ploughing match and brought along some horses. And so, the Proserpine Agricultural, Pastoral and Industrial Show was born.

By 1902, the idea of a show was rooted in the community with the first meeting of a show committee held in April.

By 1910, the show had grown to such an extent that it was necessary to secure larger premises and the committee leased the current grounds from landowner, G Waite.

A year later, more than 1000 patrons attended the event including visitors from Bowen who were brought down on a special train organised for the occasion.

While we now have a two-day show including the very popular night show on Friday evening, this was not always the case.

In 1932, the committee was forced to revert to a one-day show due to financial constraints in the district and the night show is a much more modern addition having been introduced in the late 1980s.

Since its inception, the show has seen many improvements – in 1947, a more spacious pavilion was erected, electricity was connected in 1949, a telephone was installed in 1956 and town water supply was available soon after.

Over the years, buildings have been regularly modernised or replaced such as new bar facilities in 1980 and upgraded cattle yards in 2022.  

Additional buildings have also been erected such as the Daly and Emily Thomas Memorial Pavilion in 1993 and a new Main Pavilion in 2021, to replace the one destroyed by Cyclone Debbie.

This pavilion features a well-equipped bar constructed using timber from the previous pavilion.

In 2023, patrons will be treated to a brand-new poultry shed as well as a new grandstand from which to enjoy the ring events.

While many changes have occurred, a familiar thread remains – for example, the effect horses still have on the show.

While “Best Turnout”, the once keenly contested event of brightly coloured and polished sulkies, with a proudly groomed horse stepping out sharply around the ring is long gone, competitions of a different nature are still keenly contested between riders and their mounts.

Side Show alley remains a firm favourite with the young patrons although shows such as Jimmy Sharman’s Boxing Troupe are seen no more.

The exhibit halls continue to attract locals who wish to display their crafts, fruit, vegetables, and cooking and hopefully be judged as the finest in that section.

And for years and years, patrons have savoured the waffles, potato chips, dagwood dogs and fairy floss.

Proserpine’s very first show brought together an isolated community for social activity and friendly competition.

While these days our community is no longer isolated, today’s show (now known as Show Whitsunday) continues to be an important and greatly anticipated social event.

The people of the Whitsundays owe a debt to the many dedicated men and women who, for well over a century, have given their time and talents to make the annual show the success that it is today.

This year, the 110th show, promises to deliver yet another fun-filled and action-packed two days of entertainment for all the family.

Story and photos courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum

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Lady Drivers I McCormack; Mrs Frazer at the last lady driving contest c 1930

Mr and Mrs Ned Lascelles presenting ribbons at the Proserpine Show. Photos supplied

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It’s an exciting time in the vegie patch this month, with everything thriving!

Herbs, flowers for attracting beneficial insects and just about any vegetable that grows in the Whitsundays, is growing now with vigour.

I’ve just invested in steel rings to give myself some additional growing spaces, with all my beds full to the brim with produce and not wanting to miss out on the perfect growing conditions we are presently experiencing.

If your garden beds are full or you don’t have any! Large pots could be an option for you too.  Just make sure they are 300mm deep and that you use the best soil you can get your hands on.

Remember veggies are hungry plants, so make sure you add plenty of organic matter to your soil before planting.

If you do not produce your own compost, there are plenty of bagged options that you can work into your soil.

I’ve been playing with palletised worm castings this season and I’m impressed!

It comes in 20kg bags and although more expensive than the likes of mushroom compost or poultry manure, it goes a long way, and it will definitely be a part of my growing ritual from here on.

I received a message a week or so ago asking, “How do I grow beetroot”?

So, let’s talk beetroot!

From seeding, to growing, to harvesting, storage and cooking.

Beetroot is a root crop and is pretty easy to grow and just as long as you follow a few simple requirements, you’ll have beetroots within 8 - 12 weeks, depending on the size you are after. I prefer younger beetroot, no larger than 7cm in diameter. You’ll find these ones sweeter and less likely to become tough or stringy.

Soil preparation is important. Beetroot are hungry feeders so ensure you dig through plenty of organic matter for this crop and then follow up with a regular liquid feed.

I use Seasol every three to four weeks.

Plant from seed about 10cm apart, in a sunny position in your garden.

Having said that, it is very, very important that you do not let the soil dry out or your seeds will fail. I use a 30% shade net over my garden beds, and it works a treat.

You can over seed beetroot and thin later as the young shoots are a great addition to a salad.

Keep the water up to beetroot, be consistent and be sure to water every morning, and watch for weeds because they don’t like competition.  Other than that, they are a no problem vegetable to grow.

Make sure you harvest before they go to seed.  They are sweeter with a better texture when harvested young, so when you see the top of the beetroot bulging out of the soil, and they are over 40mm in diameter, you can start to harvest them.

Beetroot will store well in the crisper for up to 3 weeks.  Leave a couple of centimetres of the stalk attached for best longevity.  The cut leaves will store for a few days and can be used just as you would spinach.  

If you do not intend on eating your beetroot straight away, they can be pickled or frozen.

To freeze, do not peel or cut them, cook them first until tender.   This can take a couple of hours.  Then store them in a container in the freezer.  They will last for up to 6 months this way.

Beetroot is very versatile. You can grate them and add them to salad.

You can puree them with oil and add spices to make a beetroot dip.

You can even mash beetroot.  After cooking, rub off their skin, add an equal quantity of cooked potatoes and mash with butter, chives and salt and pepper.

HINT:

Wear gloves when cooking your beetroot, you will not get the colour out of your skin for some time.

DID YOU KNOW:

That beetroot is part of the silver beet family, they are high in fibre and antioxidants and are an excellent source of Vit A & K, manganese, and potassium.

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When protruding from the ground it’s time to harvest

Beetroot leaves are edible and a great replacement for spinach

Beetroot dip with avocado

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Coming in the top 10 of the Whitsundays and Mackay Wedding Industry Awards came as a complete surprise to local celebrant, Annie Lloyd-Lewis.

Having worked in the industry for 15 years, this former school teacher fills her time with weddings and says it is a delight to be marrying some of her students these days.

“I get a certain percentage of couples that are former students,” said Annie.

“And I think that one of the best things about weddings are the relationships, whether that be between the bride and groom, between myself and the couple or between the family you get to know.”

At the heart of Annie’s service is the personal touch that makes each wedding unique.

Whether you’re eloping or inviting everyone you know, Annie will personally curate your perfect wedding ceremony, from the choice of wording, style of ceremony and everything in between.

Local couple, Jessica and Chris, married last month and wrote to Annie afterwards.

“You really are one of a kind just like everybody says,” they said.

“Also thank you for the lovely photos. They were so good we were able to use them as our first look on social media.”

As a Whitsundays local Annie is also able to recommend the best suppliers in town that will suit your needs.

When asked about being named in the top 10, Annie said it was an “absolute thrill and a very pleasant surprise to have been recognised.”

“It’s not what you ever set out to do but this is like cream to the pavlova!” she said.

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Local celebrant Annie Lloyd-Lewis has been marrying couples in the Whitsundays for 15 years. Photo supplied

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Originating from a passion to work for herself, chef by trade Tara Sobott, established Coastal Food Design, a specialist catering company primarily operated through her food van.

Since setting up shop in 2020, the business has evolved to encompass the food van and event catering, including corporate dinners, parties, weddings, and even the superyachts.

And now in 2023, Tara and the business has been recognised in the Australian Wedding Industry Awards, receiving Highly Commended in the Wedding Caterer category.

“It feels great to be recognised,” said Tara.

“We are a hardworking team who always strives for our best, and it’s great to receive this award.”

Tara believes that what sets Coastal Food Design apart from other caterers is their dedication to their client.

“We love having a great end result, with happy clients and happy guests,” she said.

“They say food brings people together, and we love being a part of that, especially for a fantastic and exciting event such as a wedding.”

Approximately 60 per cent of Coastal Food Designs event catering consists of weddings and the business has flourished, being flexible and open to follow their client’s dream and direction for their special day.

They have found that trends have fluctuated, and wedding parties are favouring simpler menus, featuring canapes, and grazing boards, however a more formal sit-down menu is always a great move in Coastal Food Design’s books.

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The team behind Coastal Food Design recognised in Australian Wedding Industry Awards. Photo supplied.

Famed for its professionalism and child-centred approach to babysitting, it is no wonder that Airlie Beach Babysitting By Danielle took out the top gong in the Wedding Services Category at the Whitsundays and Mackay Wedding Industry Awards last week.

Servicing the Whitsundays child-care needs for over 13 years, Airlie Beach Babysitting By Danielle can babysit almost any size of group and for any occasion.

“We are really flexible and can tailor make our packages and activities around you,” said Director Danielle Shea.

“We can look after almost any size group and can come to one of the local wedding venues or any of the local hotels and resorts.”

Danielle has between 15 and 20 babysitters available, and each holds a BlueCard and first aid certificate, and are either a qualified childcare worker or have a teaching degree.

The easy-to-use website booking system allows guests to browse the choice of babysitters and read short profiles on each so you can find the best fit for your family.

Danielle says she is thrilled to win the recent award and that she enjoys being the exclusive babysitting provider to the majority of local wedding venues.

“It’s really good to be part of the Whitsundays Wedding industry,” she said.

“I love working alongside everyone and it is very nice to be recognised.”

Each booking is unique for Danielle and her team, and they always bring a range of activities to keep your little ones happy and entertained while you enjoy some well-earnt time with other adults.

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Airlie Beach Babysitting By Danielle, Director Danielle Shea. Photo supplied

For 25 years, Kylie McIntosh has played roles in countless happy unions, from wedding planning, stylist and now as a marriage celebrant for the past seven years.

With over 600 weddings, from Cairns to Airlie Beach, in her resume, Kylie does anything and everything for her couples.

“It’s like the biggest natural high you can get, and it’s not just the couple, it’s the moments between the parent and child, or brothers and sisters. I feel all of that,” Kylie said.

Kylie shows the couples through the entire paperwork process, making sure everything is submitted. before focusing on the fun side, such as music, the overall feeling for the ceremony, and the script.

“The ceremony, the script, everything is all personalised to the couple,” she explains.

Kylie tends to specialise in interstate and destination weddings.

“I attract a lot of couples wishing to have intimate weddings, from interstate and regional areas. However also couples with large groups who really want to their wedding guests to have the best experience possible.

“I bring an awesome vibe to my weddings that couples and their guests really appreciate.”

Kylie was recently awarded winner of the Marriage Celebrant category in the Mackay and Whitsundays Wedding Industry Awards.

This is Kylie’s third time achieving first place and she is grateful for the award.

“When I won the first time, it was more like ‘how?’ - I am just so lucky and grateful that the couples even wanted to vote,” Kylie said.

“And now three awards in three years, it’s incredible, especially because there are so many deserving celebrants.”

“I am just so happy, and the word I’m looking for is grateful, I am so grateful.”

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Wedding celebrant Kylie McIntosh celebrates receiving top award in Mackay and Whitsunday Wedding Industry Awards. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge

For the past 16 years Sundowner, now part of the Iconic Whitsunday Adventures group, has been at the heart of wedding parties, hosting a variety of pre-wedding celebrations, intimate ceremonies and fabulous hens and bucks nights.

Winning Best Hens and Bucks Party at the Whitsundays and Mackay Wedding Industry Awards is testament to this iconic local venue.

“We love throwing a good party! Sundowner is a great venue, and our bucks and hens parties are always fun and interesting,” said owner Nicole Graham.

“Sundowner is a local favourite from Townsville to Sarina, and out west to the mines, and we are thrilled to be recognised.”

Sundowner is a party pontoon boat that can host up to 48 people in a private booking or welcomes small groups as part of their evening sunset tours.

Famous for its comfortable and casual atmosphere, Sundowner can create your party, your way.

Guests are invited to bring their own music and party games when booking a private function.

There is a licenced bar onboard and option for either a catered affair or a BYO food package if you want something specific.

Private charters can be booked any time of the day or evening and two-hour sunset cruises depart most days at 4.30pm during the winter months.

The stable vessel has all-weathering awnings and shelter if needed.

The cruise takes you around Pioneer Bay offering guests a scenic tour while enjoying a lively celebration.

Available for any type of celebration, from intimate proposals to milestone birthdays, work functions to graduation parties, Sundowner is a unique and exciting way to commemorate any life moment, whether big or small.

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Bucks night fun aboard Sundowner. Photo supplied

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Resilience and compassion are two themes which burn brightly in this week’s edition, from initiatives to strengthen our homes to protect our most vulnerable to showcasing the power of unity and collective action.

Annual gala Shades of Women brought together women from across the Mackay Region for an inspiring evening of empowerment and support. Not only did the event celebrate the strength and achievements of women, but it also raised crucial funds to aid women and children affected by domestic violence. It stands as a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of sisterhood and the determination to create a safer society.

On page 5 we delve into the Household Resilience Program, a vital initiative aimed at fortifying homes and protecting low-income homeowners in cyclone-prone coastal communities. With a recent funding boost of $20 million from the Federal Government, the program's reach will be extended, enabling more families to access the resources they need to make their homes safer and more resilient.

These actions underscore the unwavering spirit of our community, where individuals and organisations join forces to uplift and protect one another.

Also, make sure you’re listening to STAR 101.9 Mackay as they reveal the top three ‘dad bods’ in Mackay and the Whitsundays on Monday. Off the back of Scotty’s swimming video going viral, we thought it would be a great idea to champion refreshingly real people in our community, so in next week’s edition we will be printing a double page spread of our region’s best ‘dad bods’ including the top three winners. There are great prizes on offer so make sure you visit Star’s Facebook page or website for details!

Amanda

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‘Paying it forward’ is a good deed that not only brightens someone else’s day, it can also initiate a chain reaction of good deeds and good vibes.

Stacey Read recently witnessed this at BP Rural View.

“To the very kind guy that paid it forward by paying for an elderly man’s fuel today at BP northern beaches,” she wrote on Facebook.

“The gentleman whose fuel you paid for would like to say a huge thank you and thank you very much for your kindness.  

“He was very stunned and very grateful.  

“What an amazing and kind person you are.  

“Hope you have a great week.

“Happy to see kindness in such hard times.”

Stacey wasn’t the only one impressed with the selflessness of the gentleman.

The post attracted over 500 likes in Mackay Noticeboard and many comments sharing appreciation of the post and the gesture.

“It's amazing how posts like this brighten my day,” one person wrote.

“From feeling down I feel so content knowing that there really is kindness in this world.

“Thanks for sharing.

“It makes me wonder how one act of kindness can affect how many people?”

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BP Rural View. Photo supplied

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A torch relay that has made its way from Pozières, France, through London and around Australia came through Mackay last Wednesday, May 31 to mark 100 years of Legacy Australia.

23 locals, all with a connection to Legacy Australia, carried the torch throughout the town, ending in a service held at Jubilee Park.

“It shows the overall admiration that the public have for the veteran community who go out in uniform and carry out their duties for the nation and sometimes don’t come home,” said Vietnam War veteran and former Legacy Mackay President Keith Payne VC.

Legacy Mackay supports approximately 180 beneficiaries and is looking for volunteers.

“Mackay is an important element in the relay,” said Legacy Australia CEO Graham Boyd.

“What we’re finding is that veteran’s families need help in body, mind, spirit and social interaction, it’s not just money, so Legacy is always there to look after veteran families.”

Those interested in volunteering can contact President Les Palmer on 0437 451 635 or visit the office at 94 Nebo Road on Mondays and Fridays.

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23 locals relayed the Legacy torch throughout Mackay last Wednesday. Photos supplied

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The Salvation Army is urging everyone to get involved in this year’s Red Shield Appeal, with funds raised locally staying local to support community services and programs in Mackay.

The Mackay Corps hosted a lunch last Friday, inviting the business community to come together and hear about the work of the Salvation Army and to help invest into the community.

The event is the local charity’s major fundraiser of the year, seeking contributions to assist in funding programs like welfare programs, a community support worker, community lunches, community support and a pantry for those in need.

“We’re also looking at what the future holds, so today’s about helping the Salvos explore what needs to happen in the community into the future as well,” said Mackay Salvos Corps Officer Auxiliary Lieutenant David Dobbie.

“We can’t do what we do without the community and the generosity of community and business partners.”

Keynote speaker and Mackay rugby league legend Renae Kunst was honoured to be invited to speak, discussing her journey, the hurdles she overcame as a woman in sport and the positive contribution that sport can make on society.

Her role with Queensland Rugby League embeds her in the community, giving back to a community and a sport that she says has given so much to her.

“I’m passionate about community and anything I can do to advocate for the wonderful work the Salvos do, I’m happy to be a part of,” Ms Kunst said.

“I think it’s important to acknowledge that we’ve got plenty of people who struggle in our community and collectively, we need to work together as a community to assist in any way we can.”

To donate or volunteer for The Salvation Army’s Red Shield Appeal, or if you need support from The Salvos, visit salvationarmy.org.au or call 13 SALVOS.

You can also donate at any Salvos Store or scan the QR code.

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Mackay Salvos Corps Officer Auxiliary Lieutenant David Dobbie, Chair of the Red Shield Appeal Mackay Launch Event Cathy Sullivan and Corps Officer Auxiliary Lieutenant Belinda Dobbie. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

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Mackay Regional Council is offering significant discounts to responsible pet owners who get in early to ensure their pet’s registration was up to date.

Mayor Greg Williamson said residents who register their cats and dogs during the registration discount period in June can claim a reduction in fees ranging from 30 to 50 per cent.

“Registering your pet is an important part of being a responsible pet owner as it ensures that if your pet goes missing, we have your most up-to-date contact details so we can return your pet to you as soon as possible,” he said.

“Pet registration fees are also put towards the costs of running council’s Animal Management Centre, which provides care for lost pets.”

Council is running a photo competition for residents with registered animals to celebrate the discount period.

“We are encouraging pet owners to share photos of themselves and their pets practising responsible pet ownership,” Mayor Williamson said.

“This could be anything from taking your dog for a walk on a leash, playing in an off-leash dog park or a photo of your pet sporting a collar with a council pet registration tag.

“We will choose one winner each week and they will take home a $100 voucher from a local pet store.”

Pet owners should receive their pet registration renewal letters in the mail soon.

Please call 1300 MACKAY (622 529) for more information.

Did you know?

Council is currently running a desexing rebate where residents can claim $150 off the cost of desexing their dog and $75 off the cost of desexing their cat if they have been desexed in the last 60 days. Visit mackay.qld.gov.au/desexingrebate for details.

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A local artist has had his work showcased with the release of a second Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) unveiled by North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) last week.

Launched during National Reconciliation Week, Acting Chief Executive Officer Belinda Kenny said the NQBP Reconciliation Action Plan 2023 to 2025 will further strengthen NQBP’s existing relationships with Traditional Owners in its port communities throughout Queensland.

“NQBP has been actively engaging and building relationships with the Traditional Owners of the land and sea at each of our ports over several decades,” Ms Kenny said.

“This includes the Traditional Owner groups of Juru at Abbot Point, Yuwi at Mackay and Hay Point and the Algnith and Wik Waya at Weipa.

“Our second Innovate RAP, endorsed by Reconciliation Australia, extends our engagement and is a further commitment to actions that aim to lead to positive outcomes for the broader Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities within our port areas.

“We are proud of our achievements to date which have included changes to procurement policies that have led to a $1.7 million spend with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses last financial year, and also to significant employment opportunities during major projects.

“Working directly with Aboriginal businesses we have also facilitated business development and technical capacity as well as the further development of critical skills in environmental management. “We will strive to expand on these achievements in line with our vision for reconciliation in building sustainable and meaningful partnerships and relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.”

The RAP features original artwork Making Connections and was prepared for NQBP by artist and designer, Robert Paul, a Juru man born in Bowen.

The artwork shows NQBP’s four ports “making connections” - working with communities, and creating opportunities on country within the regions to which the ports’ trades are connected.

The different patterns within the port symbols depict many interested trading parties and show how NQBP is connecting Queensland to the world through its ports.

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North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) RAP Working Group members launched the second NQBP Reconciliation Action Plan 2023 - 2025 during National Reconciliation Week. From L-R – NQBP’s General Manager Commercial and Maritime Services Darren Brownsey, Luke Galea, Board Director Andrea Ranson, John Clark, Debbie McDonald, Luke Sorensen, Rachel Turvey, Emilie Power and Julie Keane

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