Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
At just 18 months old and weighing 17kg, Obi is a happy little guy with plenty of love and enthusiasm for life. Getting along well with children, other dogs and visitors, he has plenty of potential to become a much-loved member of his new family. Obi had a rough start to life and can still find the world a little scary at times, so he is looking for a patient and understanding family willing to help build his confidence and show him the ropes. He already knows his basic commands and walks confidently on the lead, making him a great companion for someone happy to continue guiding him as he settles into his new life. Once Obi gets to know and trust you, he will become an unshakeable little shadow, following his favourite person wherever they go. If you have the time, patience and love to give Obi the fresh start he deserves, contact his carer Char on 0402 540 612 to arrange a meeting. Alternatively, email LLTAGSandDogRescue@gmail.com to find out more.
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No city or region in Australia has been unaffected by the property market changes that have become obvious ever since the Federal Government introduced its budget in May, removing negative gearing from established housing and changing the capital gains tax rules. But some have been hit harder than others. The latest property market review by valuers Herron Todd White gives an extensive rundown of where particular regions sit as well as the nation as a whole. HTW chief economist Cameron Kusher pointed out in the September review that inflation continues to be a factor, not only in cost of living but also projected interest rate rises in the months ahead. He said: “National dwelling values fell by 3.1 per cent over the three months to August 2026, with capital city values 3.7 per cent lower and regional values falling by 1.2 per cent.” He said property market analyst Cotality estimates that over the three months to August 2026 “there were 14.6 per cent fewer property sales than the same period last year”. “Transaction activity has seen a much greater decline in the capital cities than in the regional markets; however, falls are broad-based,” he said. “Every capital city except for Hobart is seeing a higher volume of properties available for sale relative to a year ago, and only regional Tasmania and regional NT are seeing fewer total listings. “Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra have historically high listing volumes, and although they aren’t at historic highs elsewhere, Brisbane and Perth have seen annual increases of more than 50 per cent, and Adelaide has seen an annual increase of more than 40 per cent. “The heightened volume of stock for sale at a time in which there are fewer active buyers in the market means that those who are buying have less urgency and more choice. In turn, this means that they have greater scope to negotiate on price, and there are many properties that will take a long time to sell in this market or simply won’t transact. “In the regional areas, the longest median days on market are in NT, NSW and Victoria and the lowest are in WA, Queensland and Tasmania.” The HTW monthly review includes their very interesting property clock, in which they categorise where particular markets are in the property cycle. Sitting at 3 o’clock on the property clock in a declining market are Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra. Sitting in the “starting to decline” category includes cities such as Alice Springs, Brisbane and the Gold Coast. Several Queensland cities are included in the “peak of the market” category; Gladstone, Bundaberg and Toowoomba. And cities in the “approaching the top of the market” category include Cairns, Sunshine Coast, Townsville and the Whitsundays. What about the cities still sitting at 9 o’clock, the “rising market” category? Well, there aren’t nearly as many cities in that category as there were a few months ago but it still includes Mackay, Rockhampton and Emerald, among a few others. HTW can only go on the data in front of them, however agents on the ground experience the market as it happens. It is true that the Mackay market is behaving nothing like the free fall being felt in major cities like Sydney. The economy is going well, unemployment is virtually non-existent, rental vacancies are low and properties are selling. However, no agent in Mackay will tell you that right now Mackay is in a rising market. It’s still active and people are still buying but at the moment it’s not going up … it represents a great opportunity for those wanting to get into the market and investors seeking one of Australia’s best rental returns.
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Locals gathered in Mackay last Saturday for the annual March For Life, which brought together supporters of the pro-life movement. The march began at Harbour Road before finishing at Caneland Central Park, where attendees heard from guest speakers and community representatives. Among those attending was Cherish Life Queensland CEO Matthew Cliff, who travelled from Brisbane for the event. Operating since 1970, and formerly known as Right to Life Queensland, Cherish Life is one of Queensland's longest-established pro-life organisations, with branches throughout the state, including Mackay. Mr Cliff, who has been CEO for around four and a half years, said the organisation's work centred on two key areas of education and advocacy, aiming to encourage greater understanding of its pro-life position, while engaging with elected representatives and participating in public discussions about abortion. Mr Cliff said the organisation also connected women experiencing unplanned pregnancies with other services that could provide practical and emotional support. Though Cherish Life do not offer direct assistance themselves, they refer women to services like Hope's Dream, a Christian-based, non-profit charitable organization which provides pregnancy counselling and support. “The rallies are really a good way of bringing public awareness,” Mr Cliff said. “It's an opportunity for people who support the pro-life movement to demonstrate why this is important to them.” Mr Cliff said his own Christian beliefs played a role in shaping his position, with his views centred on the belief that human life is valuable from conception. “The Christian method in which I believe as the CEO of Cherish Life Queensland is to walk in grace and truth, and truth in love, and that all human life from conception is valuable,” he said. The Mackay event featured several speakers and representatives, including Mr Cliff, Australian Christian Lobby Assistant Director Daniel Adsett, Family Voice Australia Queensland Director Andrew McColl, Lighthouse Church Mackay Pastor Jai Wright and St Joseph's Catholic Church Associate Pastor Rev. Fr. Raju Mandothparambil. While Cherish Life advocates against abortion, other organisations take a different view of reproductive rights. CEO of Queensland pro choice organisation Children By Choice Anjulee Singh shared: “Children by Choice believe all people have the right to make decisions about their own body and health care. “Abortion is legal healthcare and should be accessible without barriers regardless of where you live.” The organisation advocates for accessible reproductive care in regional communities, claiming that stigma and privacy concerns can make it hard to ask for help, and can prevent women from pursuing the healthcare they are entitled to. “Everyone has the right to make their own decision about their pregnancy, whether that means continuing, ending, or considering adoption,” the organisation states. “Support should be non-judgemental, confidential, and respectful.” The differing perspectives come amid ongoing public and parliamentary debate about reproductive rights in Queensland, including discussions involving Mackay MP Nigel Dalton, who earlier this year crossed the floor in opposition to restrictions on parliamentary debate about abortion. Photo source: Cherish Life QLD - Mackay Branch
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Mackay beachgoers are encouraged to put their photography skills to good use, with the arrival of two new monitoring stations giving community members a hands-on role in tracking changes to the coastline. Eimeo Beach and Lambert’s Beach are the first locations to introduce the newly installed CoastSnap poles, which feature a phone cradle where residents and visitors can position their phones, capture an image of the coastline and upload it through the CoastSnap app. Photos taken from the same position over time will help build a long-term record of sand movement, beach erosion and recovery, providing valuable information to support future coastal management. Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said the project, led by the University of New South Wales, would give council access to valuable monitoring data while allowing the community to get involved. "It's easy to use. You just follow the barcode. And you can do it anonymously, you don't have to put your name on it," he said. Mr Williamson said the photographs and accompanying observations would help build a detailed picture of how the region's beaches change over time. "If everybody does that every day, just imagine the record that we're going to have via the University of New South Wales to manage this in the future," he said. "This is just another tool for us to be able to effectively manage the 31 beaches we've got in our region." Council's Coordinator of Waterways and Coastal Planning Robyn Burkett said the initiative formed part of the Mackay Coast Our Future project, helping council better understand coastal conditions and plan for future changes. "It's about monitoring our beaches, and community education, so that's why we're encouraging people to come along, snap a photo, and learn more about coastal hazards and how our coastal processes work in the Mackay region," she said. Ms Burkett said ongoing monitoring would help determine how much sand was lost during storm events, whether beaches recovered naturally and when intervention might be needed. "Having good information now, when we experience a storm event, looking at what those changes are, and how much sand is lost, whether it will recover over time, or whether it needs intervention is really important." The CoastSnap initiative was founded in 2017 as a pilot project by the University of New South Wales, with more than 100 poles now installed across 16 countries. The two Mackay stations were funded by council, with further locations being considered for the region. To learn more, visit www.coastsnap.com or visit connectingmackay.com.au/mackay-coast-our-future. L-R - Robyn Burkett, Coordinator Waterways and Coastal Planning for Mackay Regional Council, Kylie Cauchi, Waterways Planning Advisor for Mackay Regional Council and Mayor Greg Williamson of Mackay Regional Council, testing out the new CoastSnap pole at Eimeo Beach. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara The impact of tropical cyclone Debbie in 2017. Supplied by Mackay Regional Council
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Mackay Regional Council is partnering with local organisations to provide two potentially lifesaving events for R U OK? Day.
On R U OK? Day (Thursday, September 12) council’s Sarina Neighbourhood Centre is partnering with OrangeSky to deliver a Conversations and Cupcakes event from 9am to 11am.
Mackay Regional Council Libraries are partnering with Grapevine Group to offer special R U OK? Day SafeTALK Suicide Prevention Training at Dudley Denny City Library on Saturday, September 14, from 9.30am to 12.30pm.
OrangeSky has invited services to host information and interactive stalls at the Conversations and Cupcakes event while they offer their laundry service at the wash pods located behind the Sarina Neighbourhood Centre and Sarina Library building.
Support services currently participating include Centrelink, selectability, Mackay Regional Community Legal Centre, Nurse Next Door, Office of Fair Trading, Footprints Community - Care Finder, and Housing Older Women's Support Service.
Mayor Greg Williamson said the event would be offering free cupcakes to encourage everyone to stay for a chat.
“Both events are about having vital conversions with those who might not seem themselves,” Mayor Williamson said.
“If someone seems like they are not okay, then having a simple conversation with them can make a huge difference to their mental wellbeing,” he said.
“Suicide is all too often a silent killer in our community, but its impacts are far-reaching.
“One in two young people are impacted by suicide by the time they turn 25 and more than 3000 deaths by suicide occur each year in Australia.”
Grapevine Group President Debbie Knight said that it was vital that the community had on hand the local list of suicide prevention services.
“The list appears on the help-a-mate cards and within Grapevine Group’s free phone app and grapevinegroup.org.au,” Ms Knight said.
“Knowing where to find your local services gives people an opportunity to connect to life-saving support when it is needed,” she said.
To book your spot in the Grapevine Group’s SafeTALK training, head to https://bit.ly/4e3Lu3R or download the Mackay Libraries app.
Sites are still available for additional services to participate in the Conversations and Cupcakes event.
For more information, please contact Sarina Neighbourhood Centre on 4961 9290 or sarinaneighbourhoodcentre@mackay.qld.gov.au.
With Dr. Bob Wong
In today’s fast-paced world, chronic pain has become a widespread issue, affecting millions of people and diminishing their quality of life. While modern medicine often prescribes painkillers and invasive procedures, many are turning to the time-honoured practices of acupuncture and Chinese medicine for a more holistic and long-lasting solution.
Acupuncture, a key component of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), has been practiced for thousands of years. It involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body. This ancient technique is not only effective in alleviating pain but also promotes overall well-being by addressing the root causes of discomfort rather than just masking the symptoms.
Scientific studies have shown that acupuncture can reduce inflammation, improve blood circulation, and release endorphins—the body’s natural painkillers. This makes it a powerful tool in treating chronic pain conditions such as neuralgia, migraines, fibromyalgia, and lower back pain. Unlike pharmaceutical interventions, acupuncture offers a natural approach with minimal side effects, making it an attractive option for those seeking a more sustainable path to pain relief.
Chinese herbal medicine complements acupuncture by providing individualised treatments tailored to each patient’s unique constitution and condition. These natural remedies work in harmony with the body, enhancing its ability to heal itself and maintain balance.
At our acupuncture clinic, we combine these ancient techniques with modern understanding to provide personalised care for each patient. We believe in treating the whole person—body, mind, and spirit—so that our patients not only find relief from pain but also achieve greater overall health.
If you or someone you know is struggling with chronic pain, consider exploring the benefits of acupuncture and Chinese medicine. Experience the wisdom of the past to find relief in the present.
WE HAVE MOVED!
Align Health Co Shop 4,
6 Discovery Lane,
Mount Pleasant
artofacupuncture.com.au
Calling all students and teachers! You’re encouraged to attend an inspiring film night for just $5 per student!
On Friday, September 13th, at 7:30pm, the CQ University Conservatorium of Music will host a screening of Divertimento. This French drama, with English subtitles, tells the remarkable story of how classical symphonic music is everything for 17-year-old Zahia Ziouani and her twin sister, Fettouma.
Nevertheless, living in underprivileged Parisian suburbs in 1995 with their Algerian background, they struggle arduously to approach their dreams – becoming an orchestra conductor and a cellist. Driven by determination, passion, and courage, they create their own orchestra, Divertimento. It will be a game-changer. DIVERTIMENTO is inspired by the life of Zahia Ziouani, one of the few worldwide renowned female conductors.
Students are invited to immerse themselves in this powerful story of music, perseverance and breaking barriers.
Tickets are available for $5 through trybooking.com
It’s a story about David Bowie, David Boon and David Fisher. In truth, the least-famous of those Davids was a mere observer and is now telling a story that’s a reminder that in real estate, and life, you can’t rest until the job is done.
When I was 15, I was picked as the youngster in an ACT representative team to play in an Under 19 Australasian cricket competition in Christchurch, New Zealand.
There were quite a few emerging stars there that year, none of whom were from Canberra. Cricket fans among you will recognise the names of Queenslanders Carl Rackemann and Greg Ritchie and the Tasmanian, David Boon.
Even at the Under 19 level, those three players had already emerged as talented cricketers who had been earmarked for future success on the national stage.
But this story is about the day we came up against Tasmania. We boys from Canberra had heard of David Boon, who at that stage in his career was already in the Tasmania men’s squad and was tipped as a future opening batsman for Australia.
We knew we had no chance if Boonie got “his eye in”.
Tasmania batted first, with Boonie opening the batting, and in the surprise of tournament we got him out for just four runs. Tasmania ended up getting a pretty average score and we felt at least we were in a position not to get absolutely smashed.
Our innings went pretty well but we were still chasing 20 or 30 runs when the 9th wicket fell and our last two batsmen were in. (They weren’t called “batters” in those politically incorrect days.)
But the runs kept ticking over … 15 runs to go, nine to go and then just four runs to win at the change of over.
That’s when David Bowie came into it. While the change of over was happening and with victory in sight, our two batsmen came together in the middle of the pitch.
Instead of chatting about strategy, remaining focused and keeping their heads, one of our batsmen started singing the David Bowie song, Heroes, to the other batsman.
“Oh, we can beat them, for ever and ever. Then we could be heroes, just for one day.”
Apparently it was an excellent rendition of the recent Bowie hit but it wasn’t included in the “what to do” section of the cricket textbook for when the last two batsmen are chasing four runs to win.
First ball of the next over and the Bowie fan was bowled, middle stump. All out. Game over. Later that evening the other batsman told us about the Heroes rendition in the middle of the pitch.
The sporting lesson of not counting your chickens before they hatch was pretty obvious. But seeing the job through is also a big part of selling real estate.
It’s great to get a good offer on a property but the job is not done at that stage. You still have to get the deal done, contract signed and then manage the period up to settlement.
There’s a building and pest clause and finance approval to get through before the property is actually sold.
Doing high-fives when a property goes under contract is premature. There is still work to do, potential issues to manage and a deal to be kept together.
Sometimes contracts sail through with no issues but often the building and pest report brings up issues that can potentially crash a contract.
The agent needs to be in contact with the buyer, understand any concerns, communicate everything to the seller and be the calm intermediary who hopefully keeps the deal together.
When the contract goes unconditional it’s time for another Bowie classic, Let’s Dance.
Founder of one of the community's newest markets, 'Trash & Treasure,' and owner of Healthy Clean & Green, Wendy Steindl, has just been recognised for her honourable environmental conservation efforts.
Last Thursday on August 29, she won the Mackay Chamber of Commerce Best in Business Award for the 2024 "It’s Not Easy Being Green Environmental & Sustainability Award."
Reflecting on this milestone, Wendy shared that she was "mind blown and extremely chuffed" by the recognition.
“It was super nice to be nominated for the award, to know that my efforts are actually being seen and then to actually win was just so amazing,” Wendy remarked.
Healthy Clean & Green is an online shop and market stall business that focuses on encouraging people to make sustainable choices by replacing everyday items with reusable or home-compostable alternatives.
Beyond retail, a significant part of her work involves educating the community on why making sustainable choices is essential and how to implement these changes.
Wendy notes that many people are unaware of the environmental, health and financial damage caused by their everyday products, however, once they become aware, they often think switching to sustainable alternatives is too difficult, expensive or time-consuming. That’s why Wendy’s goal is to make the transition as easy as possible by sourcing better-choice products, offering delivery and pick-up options and keeping prices accessible.
This approach saves her customers both time and money, while also benefiting the planet.
In 2023, Wendy expanded Healthy Clean & Green by launching two markets under the business banners of Sweet Repeats and Trash & Treasure. These biannual markets focus solely on second-hand items, with Sweet Repeats dedicated to wardrobe items like clothes, shoes and accessories.
With a goal to promote a circular economy and reduce waste, these markets don’t contain single-use items like coffee cups and water bottles for purchase. Instead, attendees are encouraged to bring their own reusable items and waste stations are set up to separate compostable and recyclable materials.
Save your wallet and the planet some damage by marking your calendars for the upcoming Sweet Repeats Pre-Loved Clothing Market held on Sunday, September 15 from 8am-12pm at the CQ University Mackay City campus!
What: Sweet Repeats Pre-Loved Clothing Market
When: Sunday, September 15 8am-12pm
Where: CQ University Mackay City campus
Feeling stressed after a long Tuesday or Wednesday? Skip the hassle of cooking and head to The Dispensary, where their irresistible deals will turn your tough day into a delicious one!
Every Tuesday: Pasta Night
Pasta Night is your go-to on Tuesdays! For just $40, choose from a variety of creamy pasta dishes, complete with homemade bread and a glass of wine to top off the evening. Whether you're seeking rich flavours or a refined dining experience, The Dispensary is the place to be!
Every Wednesday: Hump Day Rump Day
Prefer a steak? On Wednesday nights, it's all about Hump Day Rump Day! From 3pm, enjoy a succulent 300g Black Angus Rump steak served with house-cut fries, a fresh Dispensary salad and a glass of house red or white wine, all for just $40. It's the ultimate midweek treat for steak lovers!
Whether you’re savouring the juicy Black Angus Rump on Hump Day or indulging in an al dente pasta on Pasta Night, The Dispensary offers the ideal setting to enjoy great food and cherished company.
These irresistible deals are perfect for a night out, so scrap your plans and enjoy exceptional service and delectable cuisine at one of Mackay’s favourite spots for relaxation and fine dining!
1 Rice Paper Rolls: Delight in light, refreshing rolls that burst with vibrant flavours and textures – the perfect choice for parties and gatherings!
2 Tempura Tofu: Crispy, golden-brown tofu, lightly crumbed in potato starch and fried to perfection, paired with a house-made sauce featuring soy, chili oil and crispy shallots.
3 Vietnamese Pork Hok - Tender and crispy pork hock served with delicious steamed rice, salad and home style sauce.
4 Crispy Pancake - Banh Xeo (Vietnamese pancake) - Rice flour, coconut and turmeric is perfectly blended to make a crispy pancake stuffed with bean shoots with a choice of pork, bbq chicken, tofu or mushrooms.
5 Spicy Special Fried Rice with BBQ Chicken: This spicy special fried rice is infused with lemongrass, ginger, kaffir lime leaves, and a sweet mix of tomato, mushroom, and corn, all complemented by juicy BBQ chicken.
For Takeaway orders or reservations call (07) 4881 0209 or visit https://flavoursofvietnam.info/ today!
As the festive season approaches, bookings at Laffos Bar & Pizzeria are coming in thicker and faster than a Tasmanian snowstorm!
With Christmas right around the corner, the jolly man in red will soon be making his appearance, and there’s no better place to celebrate than at Mackay’s legendary Bar & Pizzeria at Caneland Central.
Laffos, renowned for its famous pizzas and cold drinks by the river, offers the perfect setting for Christmas parties and festive gatherings. The spacious venue, with its charismatic atmosphere, is ideal for sharing ‘laffs’ and creating memorable moments with friends, family and colleagues.
Avoid the holiday rush and secure your spot at the town’s most vibrant dining spot by booking your Christmas party or function now!
Whether you're celebrating with a large group or a small gathering, Laffos ensures a festive celebration filled with good food, great company and a lively atmosphere that will leave everyone with laffable moments to share!
By dining at this exceptional venue, you’re not only enjoying delicious food and drinks, but you’re also supporting a local business that actively gives back to their cherished community.
Visit Laffos for all your seasonal celebrations and make your next dining experience one to remember!
Looking to kickstart your busy day on a high note? Ocean International offers an unparalleled early morning experience tailored for busy professionals and early risers!
With exceptional breakfast options and inviting dining areas designed for relaxation, it's the perfect spot to savour a revitalising meal before diving into your hectic schedule.
Picture yourself beginning your morning with a delightful selection of breakfast options, from sweet fluffy pancakes to a savory smashed avocado, all paired with expertly crafted coffee.
Nestled by the serene outdoor pool, Ocean International offers a calming escape from the day-to-day hustle and bustle, enhanced by the gentle ocean breeze.
With breakfast open daily from 6am to 11am, the venue features a rotating breaky menu with specials that offer both variety and exceptional value.
Whether you're grabbing a quick coffee or indulging in a relaxed breakfast either solo or with colleagues, Ocean International’s blend of high-quality food, attentive service and picturesque setting makes it a favourite destination for locals and visitors alike.
Elevate your morning routine and experience a breakfast that will put a spring in your step as you start your day on a high note at Ocean International!
Open 7 Days A Week!
Breakfast: 6:00am to 11:00am.
Lunch: 11:30am to 2:30pm.
Dinner: 5:00pm to 8:30pm.
Bar: Open all day!
As domestic and family violence statistics continue to increase, so does the support from organisations such as Broken Ballerina Inc, who remain persistent in their mission to become a living hope for those most vulnerable in the region.
Local QPS domestic and family violence representative, Tamara Cook spoke on the rising issue and said that community charities such as Broken ballerina are making the changes that are needed to help women and children at risk of domestic violence.
Constable Cook said, “Domestic Violence is no longer a behind closed doors issue, it’s a major social issue but we’ve all got a part to play, and police can no longer do it on our own.
“I encourage every one of us to stand up against domestic violence…we have a role to play in ending domestic violence, whether it’s speaking out when we see something is wrong, supporting victims and survivors or educating others about the signs of abuse.”
Broken Ballerina committee members agreed and emphasised that an influx of women and children within the region are crying out for support, and that “Broken Ballerina is one of the only organisations helping these victims out.”
A spokesperson from the committee said, “We support vulnerable women and children within the region as a small agency and our income is solely just fundraising and donations.
“We don’t get grants or funding from the government so any businesses or agencies that can jump on board and support us is greatly appreciated.”
To shed light on this troubling issue, Broken Ballerinas highly anticipated Annual Charity Ball fundraiser is just around the corner and is set for the 21st of September at the Mackay Turf Club, from 5pm.
Tickets are $160/person or $1500 for a table of 10 and include a drink on arrival as well as a delicious 2 course alt drop of entrees and mains…plus, surprise desserts, raffles, auctions and an epic night of fun to be had where attendees can dance the night away to the Lady Gaga & Pink Tribute show!
“We want this ball to be a fun night out so bring your friends along and get ready for some great raffle prizes and dance the night away to the live tribute performance from Lady Gaga and P!nk!”
Come and enjoy a fun evening whilst raising crucial funds to help local DV Victims in the region!
Fusion128 lives up to its name by offering a culinary experience that is truly fusion by both name and nature. This vibrant restaurant brings together a diverse array of flavours from around the globe, seamlessly blending Asian and French influences with the unique taste of Australian bush herbs. Each dish on the menu is a celebration of cultural diversity, yet unified by a common theme: they are all hearty, delicious, and crafted with genuine care.
The chefs at Fusion128 take pride in creating meals that satisfy the soul as much as the stomach. Among the popular favourites are the succulent pork ribs with vegetables, the perfectly cooked sirloin steak with king prawns, the rich and tender duck, and the aromatic Thai chicken curry. Whether you're enjoying these crowd-pleasers or exploring other options, you can be sure that every bite has been thoughtfully prepared.
Despite the sophisticated fusion of flavours, Fusion128 maintains a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant’s friendly staff and inviting ambience make it the perfect place to enjoy a meal that’s as comforting as it is creative. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the experience at Fusion128 is bound to leave you feeling satisfied and eager to return for more of their filling, flavourful dishes, all made with love.
With World Suicide Awareness Day fast approaching, Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network has been raising awareness with a variety of initiatives right across the region.
From the recent Memorial Service and plaque unveiling held in Airlie Beach last week to the sunflower sale at Stackelroth Farm where over $500 was raised for the cause.
Starting a conversation about suicide awareness is considered the most effective way to normalise such a stigmatised issue and encourage those living with mental health issues to connect with the community.
Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network volunteer Megan Mattingley and Belinda Williams from Stackelroth Farm sold sunflowers to raise awareness for suicide prevention over the weekend. Photo supplied
Many members of the community called into Stackelroth Farms in Bowen on the weekend to purchase a bunch of bright yellow sunflowers to show their support for suicide prevention.
At initiative of Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN) the event was hosted by volunteer Megan Mattingley and made possible through the kindness of Belinda Williams and Michelle O’Regan from Stackelroth Farms.
A total of $250 worth of sunflowers was donated to WSPN and a further $500 was raised for the community organisation, but Michelle O’Regan said the outcome was worth more than money.
“It was so much more than the donation of money and flowers,” she said.
“Starting a conversation was the most important part of the day for us. It was great to meet so many people and thank you to everyone who volunteered their time.”
There are several other suicide prevention events taking place this week, turn to page 4 to see which one you could attend.
Andrew Willcox Federal Member For Dawson with young WSPN volunteer Jordyn and Belinda Williams from Stackelroth Farm. Photo supplied
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Hi Everyone,
Thank you so much for all the well-wishes and congratulations following my wedding.
I really appreciated the phone calls, text messages and personal encounters that have all made my husband and I feel super special over the last few weeks.
You’ll be pleased to know, it was the most spectacular day and the weather was perfect . . . thankfully!
A few people have been asking me to share photos so here is one for you!
In other news, it’s the much-anticipated Whitsundays Writers Festival this weekend and if you haven’t got a ticket yet, make sure you check out the website and book into an event.
The Festival is not just for writers; it’s for lovers of books and culture, for thinkers and readers – people who like a heart-warming community event crafted with passion and delivered with heart.
I am on the Whitsundays Writers Festival committee which has spent over a year planning the event - well done to the entire committee and thank you in advance to all the volunteers who will undoubtedly be running around all weekend.
There are so many fantastic speakers attending, including 2023 Miles Franklin Literary Award Winner, Shankari Chandran, international crime writer Garry Disher and award-winning author of The Slap, Christos Tsiolkas.
You’ll be pleased to know my own public speaking venture also continues as I deliver one of my own poems alongside my beautiful mum at the Poetry Karaoke event on Friday night.
Then, on Sunday I will share my story of cancer survival and the book I have written about the journey.
For the full festival itinerary turn to page 23.
There is so much to enjoy at this years’ Whitsundays Writers Festival, if you’ve been thinking about coming for a while, you’ve still got time!
I promise you will receive a warm welcome and have a rewarding experience.
Hope to see you there!
Rach
Quote Of The Week: “Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one’s courage” Anais Nin
Even here in the Whitsundays with its diverse wildlife, it’s not every day a wild echidna comes crawling across your driveway, but for local Ruby Honey Gorlick, that is exactly what happened.
When Ruby arrived home last week, she saw the echidna crawling across her driveway and initially approached it because she was curious. When she got closer, however, she noticed it had ticks embedded into its skin.
“I noticed it had lots of ticks on it, which I know can hurt them and potentially kill them,” explained Ruby.
“So, I ran back to my car, grabbed my makeup bag, got my eyebrow tweezers and removed the ticks!”
Ruby has prior experience with removing ticks from animals as she has removed ticks from her dogs in the past.
Backed by this knowledge and coming from a family that often stop to help injured animals on the roadside, Ruby’s first instinct was to carefully remove the ticks and help the animal that was in distress.
Ruby says she loves animals and would help any creature if it was experiencing a life-threatening situation. She added that it is important to help animals because they can’t always do it themselves and need assistance.
Ruby counted six ticks on the echidna and after carefully removing all of them left the echidna continued on its way in good health.
The team at Tourism Whitsundays are elated this week, not only with the announcement of their new CEO, but also with Council increasing its annual funding from $750K to $1M this year.
The CEO position at Tourism Whitsundays has been efficiently overseen by interim CEO Aimee Cameron for the past few months following the surprise resignation of Rick Hamilton earlier this year.
The team is now excited to announce that highly experienced tourism leader, Tim Booth, has accepted the role and is due to start in November.
Tim will be moving to The Whitsundays from New South Wales in the coming weeks to lead the organisation's efforts in destination marketing, increasing visitation, enhancing visitor expenditure, and extending the length of stay in the region.
Tim joins Tourism Whitsundays with over 17 years of experience in tourism management and a remarkable track record of achievements.
He is the current CEO of Mudgee Region Tourism, which has won multiple State and National Tourism Awards during his tenure.
For the three years prior to being in Mudgee, Tim's efforts helped the Eurobodalla region emerge stronger following devastating bushfires.
Tim shared his excitement for the role and his commitment to the community.
“I am honoured to take on the role of CEO at Tourism Whitsundays and to work with such a passionate and dedicated team,” he said.
“My vision is to drive sustainable growth, enhance visitor engagement, and strengthen our relationships with partners and stakeholders.”
The newly announced CEO of Tourism Whitsundays, Tim Booth. Photo supplied
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