The community are invited to experience a rare glimpse of our local Disaster Coordination Centre in a unique open day experience that shows the inner workings of the central command centre when a natural disaster strikes.

This open day will offer the public an insight into how disasters are managed in our region by offering tours of the centre and a series of 30-minute talks by the Disaster Management Coordinator and centre staff.

“The coordination centre will be open as if it were activated for a real event,” said Disaster Management Coordinator Sandra Black.

“The community will be able to visually see how the room is set-up, and checkout what roles the different Council staff have during an event.”

‘The Disaster Coordination Centre can be activated when an extreme weather event such as a flood, cyclone, bushfire or storm reaches a certain level.’

When the centre is activated Council staff also slip into action and step-up to oversee the successful operation of the centre alongside emergency services personnel.

“The centre is made up of three big meeting rooms which are made into smaller hubs and sub-cells for planning and intel,” said Sandra.

“There are also loggers and taskers who man the phones and then relay information to the Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG).”

During the open day, guests can enjoy a tour, listen to one of the talks and understand how disaster teams respond to a situation.

Children will enjoy activities and dress-ups and everyone receives brochures and pamphlets detailing how to prepare for a disaster.

Anyone who completes a Community Resilience Survey on the day goes in the draw to win a generator!

“This is the only opportunity to see the set-up first-hand and understand our functions” explains Sandra.

“The centre is never usually open to the public and we are excited to invite everyone along – we are also hoping representatives from the emergency service fields will be there.”

WHAT: Disaster Coordination Centre Open Day

WHERE: 83-85 Main Street, Proserpine

WHEN: Sunday, June 11 from 10am – 1pm

TICKETS: Free community event
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Where Is Your Nearest Shelter?

Bowen Cyclone Shelter

(Bowen State High School)

54-86 Richmond Road, Bowen

Proserpine Cyclone Shelter

(Proserpine State Primary School)

Sterry Street, Proserpine

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The Disaster Coordination Centre is ready for action. Photo supplied

In a significant development for healthcare in the region, the tender for the Mackay Base Hospital Expansion has been awarded to BESIX Watpac. The $250 million expansion project aims to provide an additional 128 beds, catering to the growing demand for healthcare services. This expansion is part of the State Government's ambitious Queensland Health and Hospitals Plan, which has seen substantial investments in new hospitals and increased bed capacity across the state.

Last week, Shannon Fentiman, the incoming Health Minister, visited Mackay Base Hospital to announce the appointment of BESIX Watpac as the lead contractor for the expansion project. The project will encompass paediatric, medical, and surgical wards, effectively equipping frontline hospital workers with the necessary facilities to meet the rising demand for healthcare in the region. Additionally, the expansion will ensure that Mackay residents have convenient access to a comprehensive range of health services closer to home.

Minister Shannon Fentiman expressed her gratitude to the dedicated healthcare professionals and highlighted the significance of the expansion.

"I'm honoured to visit our hardworking frontline health workers on the ground here in Mackay and thank them for all they do,” Minister Fentiman said.

“We are one step closer to delivering this important capital project as we welcome BESIX Watpac onboard as the lead contractor.”

Julianne Gilbert, Member for Mackay, hailed the announcement as a positive development for the community and the wider region.

"This is an exciting announcement for my community and the surrounding region,” Mrs Gilbert said.

“This is a great step forward not only for Mackay but also for the wider communities of Proserpine, Bowen, Collinsville, Dysart, Moranbah, Clermont, and Sarina.  

“We future-proofed the hospital, ensuring sufficient land was available to expand. Once again there will be views of the beautiful Pioneer River and Bluewater Trail for our patients and staff."

Dr. Charles Pain, Interim Chief Executive of Mackay Hospital and Health Service, emphasised the importance of meeting the growing demand for healthcare.

"These additional 128 beds will help us meet the rising demand for healthcare in the region and improve the flow of patients from the emergency department to the wards,” he said.

“The existing facility has served us well for decades, but as our community continues to grow, it's imperative that our hospital grows with it.

“The Women's Health Unit and the Child and Adolescent Unit are looking forward to moving into brand new wards, and this will ensure care is provided in a contemporary environment,” Dr Pain added.

“The location of birth suites on the same level as the surgical department will also allow for a smoother transition of care for some birthing women."

The Mackay Base Hospital Expansion project is expected to create 610 local construction jobs, providing an economic boost to the area. The project is scheduled for completion in the second half of 2026, marking a significant milestone in enhancing healthcare services and meeting the evolving needs of the Mackay community.

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KEY POINTS

• BESIX Watpac has been awarded the tender to deliver the Mackay Base Hospital Expansion.

• The $250 million expansion will deliver an additional 128 beds to support healthcare for the region.

• The project is scheduled for completion in the second half of 2026.

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Buster, a compassionate and caring individual, recently embarked on a heartwarming mission to make a difference in the lives of sick and injured children. Inspired by his own experiences at the Queensland Children's Hospital, the Children's Ward at the Mackay Base Hospital, and the Ronald McDonald Centre, Buster witnessed the struggles and challenges faced by young patients. Determined to bring some joy and comfort to their lives, Buster took it upon himself to raise funds for a special cause.

Through his dedicated fundraising efforts, Buster successfully gathered the necessary resources to purchase incredible gifts for the Children's Ward at the Mackay Base Hospital. These thoughtful presents, ranging from cuddly toys to books, were intended to put smiles on the faces of the young patients and provide them with moments of happiness during their hospital stay.

Buster's selfless act of kindness and his commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of others is truly commendable, earning his spot in this week’s Good Deed Feed.

The Mackay Hospital Foundation extended their heartfelt gratitude to Buster for his hard work, generosity, and unwavering dedication. His selflessness serves as an inspiration to all, reminding us that even small gestures of kindness can have a significant impact on the lives of those in need.

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Hi readers

Last week, from May 15-21, was National Volunteer Week, Australia’s largest annual celebration of volunteering. Mackay is full of not-for-profit organisations and selfless people who donate their time to keep them running and these people were acknowledged throughout the week, as they should be every day of the year.

On pages 16 and 17, you’ll find the stories of some of these organisations in our community. You’ll also find our weekly listing of volunteer positions currently available. If you have some spare time on your hands, I implore you to peruse these stories, find an organisation that aligns with your interests and get in touch about volunteering.

As a budding creative industries practitioner, my university years were filled with volunteering roles. My resume lists a variety of backstage and bar experiences at music festivals, internship tenures and freelance writing gigs to pump up that all-important portfolio. I currently volunteer at local community radio station 4CRM. While my show may only go for an hour, I probably dedicate about five hours a week to preparing the show and researching and sourcing songs. It’s my way of growing my experience and, even if it doesn’t lead to paid employment in radio, it’s really fun and I hope I always have the opportunity to contribute to community radio no matter where I am in life. Tune into my show ‘The Prekend’ on 4CRM 107.5FM on Thursdays from 8pm if you’re interested.

Whether it’s diversifying your skills and learning new things or meeting new people and finding a sense of community, there are innumerable benefits to volunteering, so get out there and give it a crack.

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When one digger made a promise to another in the trenches of World War I, they inspired a decade of inspirational assistance.

Legacy Australia has been supporting the families of veterans since 1923 and in commemoration of 100 years, the Legacy Centenary Torch Relay will reach Mackay on Wednesday, May 31 after beginning its journey in Pozières, France in April.

The torch will be carried on a 7.1km route through town by 23 local torch bearers, all with a personal connection to Legacy Australia, including Sarina resident Kevin Plumb.

Plumb served in Vietnam from April 1967 to February 1968 and, upon returning, got involved in the RSL Sarina Sub Branch before continuing his work in welfare for veterans and their dependents.

“They go hand in hand, Legacy and the military,” said Mr Plumb, who’s role involves assisting widows with their War Widow Pension along with general assistance.

“I’ve been doing it for the last 30 plus years; not only for Legacy, but I look after the veterans themselves.”

Mr Plumb said the work he does gives him great pride in himself, and he is honoured to be bearing the torch next week.

“I’m walking for not only the widows but also for any of the men and women who’ve lost their lives during conflict,” he said.

The relay will begin at Mackay Town Hall on Sydney Street at 10:00am and make its way around town, through the streets and past schools before finishing with a ceremony at Jubilee Park at 12:30pm.

“It’s going to be a momentous day; it’ll never happen again,” said Legacy Mackay President Les Palmer.

“For me, it’s all for the families and making sure they’re comfortable, they get care, they get visits; it’s all about looking after the families of returned servicemen.”

Established in 1947, Legacy Mackay currently supports 170 local families.

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

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Mackay Legacy President Les Palmer is one of 23 torch bearers in next week’s Legacy Centenary Torch Relay. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

CEO of Legacy Australia Matthew Granger with another torch bearer welcoming the torch to Australia earlier in the month. Photo supplied

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The cost-of-living crisis is reaching breaking point for many across Dawson, with local business owners concerned by an increase in taxes and levies imposed by the Federal Government on important industries.

Leader of the Nationals and Shadow Minister for Agriculture David Littleproud, and Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox, toured the Whitsunday region last week on an industry listening tour, witnessing first-hand how Labor’s ‘Tax Trifecta’ is impacting rural and regional areas like Dawson.

Mr Willcox said that since the 2022 election, Labor has implemented more than seven new taxes on Australians, with three taking aim at some of our most vital industries: the Fresh Food Tax, the Truckie Tax, and the Tourist Tax.

Speaking with Leanne from Koorelah Farms, the MP’s heard how the ‘Fresh Food Tax’ is “throwing our agricultural industry’s confidence into doubt”.

“Labor has slung a triple tax attack on some of our most important industries, which operate right here in the Whitsunday region.” Mr. Willcox said.

“Farmers like Leanne are at the core of our regional industry, and yet they’ve been hit with a new $153 million bio-security tax.

“Under this new tax, farmers will pay for overseas competitors to import their products to Australia.  

“It doesn’t make any sense”.

David Littleproud and Andrew Willcox also attended a breakfast with the Bowen Gumlu Growers Association, who discussed how Labor’s ‘Truckie Tax’ was going to increase the price of produce at the checkout.

“Speaking with farmers in Bowen, we heard how the increase of the road user charge by 19 per cent over three years will hurt industry” Mr. Willcox said.

“Our trucks are vital to getting produce and product to market, and yet they’ve been slapped with a huge increase to their taxes.

“This tax is going to hike the prices for both the farmers we’ve spoken to here in Dawson, and the customers at the checkout.

While in the Whitsundays, Mr. Littleproud and Mr. Willcox also spent time speaking with local businesses in the tourism industry at the Whitsunday Coast Chamber of Commerce’s recent meeting.

“The ‘Tourist Tax’ will see less overseas tourists travel to Australia, and with Tourism Australia’s budget being slashed, it’s going to throw the strong future of our region into question.”

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Shadow Minister for Agriculture David Littleproud (right), and Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox (centre), toured the Whitsunday region last week on an industry listening tour, chatting to Wayne Born (left) from Koorelah Farms. Image supplied: Office of Andrew Willcox MP

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Police are investigating a fatal pedestrian incident which occurred on Saturday, 20 May, near Clairview.

At 6.45am police were called to the scene following reports a man had been struck by a truck on the Bruce Highway. Queensland Ambulance reported that the incident occurred near the Brandybottle Camping and Recreation Reserve.

A police spokesperson said in a statement that a 40-year-old suffered serious injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Anyone who passed through the area at the time who may have relevant dashcam footage is asked to contact police.

The highway was closed from 8.30am until 11.15am while emergency services responded.

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Three weeks into the Airlie Beach boardwalk expansion and tensions are rising among regular users of the piece of infrastructure who say that insufficient signage has caused confusion and that they can foresee dangerous incidents arising between high-speed electric scooters and pedestrians when it re-opens.

In April, the boardwalk between Sorrento’s Restaurant and Bar and Coral Sea Marina Resort was closed for expansion works for six weeks to widen the pathway by one metre.

At this time many considered the signage to be “confusing and insufficient” in redirecting foot traffic around to Shute Harbour Road, the only other access point to Coral Sea Marina.

Dozens of tourists use this route each day to embark on various cruises and local resident, Sharon Smallwood, who is also a regular boardwalk user, said from her observations the situation “could have been better managed”.

She also states that, when it re-opens, it will “only be a matter of time before there is an accident” on the boardwalk involving motorised traffic and pedestrians.

“Council have good intent, but I don’t think it’s going to have the desired outcome unless they have better traffic management,” she said.

“This was already a place where motorised, wheeled devices could converge into heavy pedestrian traffic, and if it is not managed properly, I fear the expansion of the boardwalk will only make that situation worse.

“There are other areas in Australia where [motorised vehicles] are banned for this reason yet here I’ve seen near collisions on our boardwalk, some involving young children.  

“What’s particularly frightening is how silent some of these scooters can be – so you don’t hear them coming – and the significant speeds they can reach.”

Coral Sea Marina say that while the new boardwalk will be a positive addition to the community, it is imperative appropriate shared usage is addressed and speed deterrents are implanted in advance of its re-opening.

“Our concerns are related to the shared usage of the boardwalk between pedestrians, cyclists and users of motorised devices - not just in this particular area but throughout the entire span of the boardwalk,” said Kate Purdie, Chief Executive Officer, Coral Sea Marina.

“The former timber boardwalk between Coral Sea Resort and Sorrento’s was a speed deterrent due to the nature of the timber and the fact that it was narrow.

“When it is re-opened, the increased width and improved material will enable users to travel at higher speeds just as they enter the high pedestrian traffic area of the north marina village.

“The biggest bottleneck will be where the boardwalk at Sorrento’s leads into the north marina village which is full of tourists preparing for daytrips, charter boat guests provisioning vessels and a large number of pedestrians.

“It is imperative that the local community, and visiting tourists, are made acutely aware that this widened boardwalk ends abruptly in an area of high foot traffic.”

Last year Coral Sea Marina introduced a Pedestrian Only campaign throughout the marina precinct, asking users to “Get off your wheels and on your heels” so they can transit these high use areas safely.

“We hope all users of this shared pathway will recognise the importance of this for their own safety and the safety of others,” said Kate.

Whitsunday Regional Council’s Director Infrastructure Services Adam Hagy said the boardwalk upgrade and widening was built to allow safer traffic flow in a shared area.

“The expectation is that, as with any public shared walkway or footpath, users would be courteous to others.”

“The boardwalk is no different to any other shared public walkway or footpath, the issue is not the boardwalk but the safe use of the electric scooters.

“Council has ordered signage that will encourage users to slow down however local contractors are experiencing delays so these will be installed as soon as possible.”

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The boardwalk between Sorrento’s and Coral Sea Resort is under construction and when it re-opens there are fears its broader width will become dangerous due to speedy scooters. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

The new signage that Whitsunday Regional Council will soon place at the entrance to the expanded boardwalk. Photo provided

As Bonza Airlines took to the skies last Tuesday, it crowned a remarkable chapter in Australian aviation.

The airline's maiden journey from Melbourne to Mackay signalled the culmination of an extraordinary achievement, with the completion of the largest route map launch in Australian aviation history.

The new twice-weekly route between Melbourne and Mackay, offering fares starting from $89, opens up exciting opportunities for travellers and local industries.

Mackay Airport CEO Richard Barker expressed his enthusiasm, highlighting the value of this direct connection.

“Connecting Melbourne and Mackay with direct flights will open up a raft of opportunities for passengers and local industries. This will be the only direct service flying interstate from Mackay,” he said.

“It has traditionally been a lengthy process to travel between these locations, and many people simply would have chosen not to do so. Mackay and Melbourne both offer attractive experiences for visitors, and I expect we will see many travellers taking advantage of these non-stop services.

“We now have all of Bonza’s routes flying from Mackay, including Cairns, the Sunshine Coast and now Melbourne, and these services are contributing 2,500 additional seats to the Mackay market each week.”

Carly Povey, Chief Commercial Officer at Bonza, said “Tuesday’s historic flight to Mackay from our second base in Melbourne marks the finish line for our initial rollout and the start line for Bonza earning the right to grow.

“Our focus now is firmly on improving our operations, earning the respect of customers and then, we will continue to add new routes and a third base to continue our mission of connecting communities across Australia.”

It’s good news for Mackay’s tourism industry. Forward bookings for Bonza flights, including the upcoming school holidays and public holiday weekend, are already strong. Victorians are drawn to the warmth of Queensland, fuelling demand for these direct flights. Povey commented, "Forward bookings are looking strong as Victorians appear eager to escape the winter chill for the warmth of Queensland."

Travelers are encouraged to download the Fly Bonza app, the exclusive platform for direct reservations. As Bonza continues to make waves in the aviation industry, their commitment to connecting communities across Australia remains at the forefront of their mission.

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L-R: Mayor Greg Williamson, Bonza Chief Commercial Officer Carly Povey and Mackay Isaac Tourism CEO Al Grundy celebrated Bonza’s inaugural flight from Melbourne to Mackay on Tuesday evening. Image: Mackay Isaac Tourism

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After years of planning and proposing, construction for an Aldi supermarket has started in Mackay.

The 1900 square metre store is being constructed on the corner of Beaconsfield Road East and Superior Boulevard in Andergrove and boasts the best of discount foods and quality products.

“We are excited to bring our unique shopping experience to the Andergrove community in 2024,” said an ALDI Spokesperson.

“The new store will offer North Queenslanders a supermarket experience like no other, providing shoppers with award-winning grocery products at unbeatable prices and iconic Special Buys together with fresh fruit, vegetables and bread delivered daily.

“We will update the community as plans progress.”

The proposal for the store was fast tracked by council in late 2021, and the store was set to open by December 2022, halted by building constraints and lack of materials.

“We welcome Aldi and the construction of the North Mackay store,” said Mayor Greg Williamson.

“Aldi’s confidence and enthusiasm with our region is fantastic so congratulations to them.

“A lot of people are looking forward to this Aldi development.”

Construction is expected to be completed by February 2024.

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Construction for an Aldi in Mackay has started in Andergrove. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

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When Samantha Scott was six years old, she was diagnosed with a kidney disease, and by the age of nine, she underwent her first major kidney surgery.

But, at the age of 31, Sam was again given the worst news.

“I think the words were ’11 per cent total kidney function … you will need some sort of kidney replacement therapy’,” Sam said.

“I was in complete shock and disbelief as I had been told this was unlikely to happen.

“It was a very difficult thing to comprehend, as I was not sick and did not look sick.”

However, both of her parents were willing and ready to donate Sam a kidney.

Her mum, Jenny Scott, was the best match, and on February 22, 2011, the pair underwent surgery at Princess Alexandria Hospital in Brisbane.

“It was scary, and I was pretty nervous, but everybody was beautiful,” Jenny said.

“And I mean, I saved Sam’s life.”

Following the surgery, the pair were closer than ever.

“We’d tried to kiss each other but we couldn’t reach across our walking frames,” Jenny said.

Now 12 years on, Sam continues to be cautious.

“I am going to need another kidney transplant one day,” she said.

“I am just lucky to be alive and living my best life to the selfless gift of my donor, my mum, my hero.”

Jenny now volunteers with the Kidney Support Network.

“Check with your GP often,” Jenny said.

“Because kidney disease sneaks up on you.

“It can be a silent killer.”

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Mother-Daughter duo days after kidney transplant surgery to save daughter. Photo supplied

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Join Gardian Group for the annual Mackay Hospital Foundation Family Fun Day, back, bigger and better than ever in 2023.

With heaps of fun for the whole family, just $5 per person will get you unlimited access to the huge variety of activities and rides on offer, including Jurassic Sizzler, merry go round, King Flyer, mega jumping castles, Teacup Ride, bucking bull and more!

Plus, browse the market stalls and sample the delights from a variety of delicious food and coffee vendors.

Take a seat and enjoy the tasteful tunes of Australian Idol’s Noah Cookson as he serenades audiences with his blissful melodies.

There’ll also be the opportunity to pass the footy with Broncos, Maroons and Australia rugby league legend Sam Thaiday, who will be there enjoying all the fun.

All this and more for just $5 entry, cash or card accepted, with all proceeds to be donated to our local hospitals.

You can help the Mackay Hospital Foundation make a real difference in the community simply by attending this amazing event!

For those who can't attend the event but still wish to make a contribution to Mackay Hospital Foundation, donations can be made at the following link: https://www.mackayhospitalfoundation.com.au/donate

Get amongst all the fun of the Family Fun Day happening at BB Print Stadium this June.

WHAT: Mackay Hospital Foundation Family Fun Day presented by Gardian Group

WHEN: Saturday, June 4 from 10:00am to 2:00pm

WHERE: BB Print Stadium

TICKETS: $5 entry

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The Mackay Hospital Foundation Family Fun Day returns to BB Print Stadium this June

Former Brisbane Broncos and Queensland Maroons prop Sam Thaiday will be getting amongst the fun

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For years, Year 12 student from Mackay State High School Dean Contemplacion has been envisioning being able to travel to Japan and experience the fantastic culture and heritage.

And this dream is about to come true, being accepted as a Youth Ambassador for a cultural exchange program with Mackay’s sister city, Matsuura, a city in southern Japan in the Nagasaki Prefecture.

Dean is one of 12 students to be selected for the exchange, having to write a 500-word essay, be interviewed, and have an endorsement from his school.

Once he returns, he will pen a report for the Mackay Regional Council.

“I’ve always longed for the day that I would fulfill this dream of mine and be immersed in such a wonderful community,” Dean said.

“Now that I am given the chance to go, I am so excited to immerse myself in their culture, eat and drink the same food as them, learn more about the history of the country, speak in their language, and witness the sights and wonders of Japan, the nature, and the cities.

“I want to make my 14 days there not just to strengthen the bond of Mackay and Matsuura, I want it to be about living as a Japanese native.”

The Matsuura Sister City Program began in 1989 and encourages a cultural exchange for Matsuura students as well.

Matsuura students will stay in Mackay with host families and experience Mackay and Australia with activities organised by the Mackay Council.

Dean will live with a Japanese host family and be heavily involved with activities organised by the Matsuura Council, and even attend high school for a time.

He will be able to venture to iconic Japanese sites, including Mount Fuji, Akihabara and various temples and shrines.

Dean is funding the 14-day trip himself, and will also venture to Tokyo and Osaka following the program.

“Being accepted as one of 12 ambassadors to go took great effort, and I believe being financially held back should not overshadow the qualifications I show to be part of the program.

“I am hoping for donations and the support of you and anyone else willing to assist me, I will be able to attend the trip in June 2023 and fulfill this long-awaited dream.”

Following the trip, Dean plans to return to Japan, and explore the country further.

“After the program, although I won't be able to go to university there, I plan to migrate there one day after my educational goals.

“Even if it's still a long way ahead, I already have my sights set to live there someday, and bring over family and friends, because I know that this is also my cousins' and friends' dream.”

“This is truly a once in a lifetime opportunity for me, I'll soon be in university next year, the busiest years of my life are about to come, and if there's one last childhood dream, I would want to fulfill before all that happens, it's this one,” Dean said.

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Dean Contemplacion is excited to spend 14 days in Japan with Sister City Exchange. Photo supplied

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Schools across the region took to the streets and walked safely to school last Friday for National Walk Safely To School Day.

“It’s just about getting exercise and a breath of fresh air,” said Mackay Christian College year 7 student Enoch Gallogray.

“It’s amazing to see everyone excited about exercising.”

St Joseph's Catholic Primary School Sport Captain Isobel Rippingale agreed, sharing some tips about walking to school safely.

“It’s important to be safe around road signs, lights, learn how to cross the road safely and look left and right at pedestrian crossings,” she said.

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St Joseph's Catholic Primary School

St Joseph's Sports Captains Isobel Rippingale and Ryan McLennan

Mackay Christian College. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

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Over 500 people attended the third bi-annual Multicultural Festival at the Whitsunday PCYC over the weekend and the inclusion of a Citizenship Ceremony proved a welcome addition to this years’ itinerary.

Mayor Julie Hall officiated the ceremony which welcomed 38 new citizens to the community.

Deputy Mayor Gary Simpson and Councillor Clay Bauman were also in attendance.

During the ceremony each person received their official certificates and were gifted with a jar of traditional Aussie Vegemite.

Afterwards everyone chanted “Aussie! Aussie! Aussie! Oi! Oi! Oi!” to seal the deal.

Mayor Hall said it was exciting to officially swear in the new Australian citizens and then celebrate the vibrant tapestry of cultures that make our community so rich and diverse with the Multicultural Festival.

“Our Whitsunday community is made up of over 83 different ancestries with more than 6000 residents born overseas,” she said.

“The citizenship ceremony and Multicultural Festival are a testament to our community's inclusivity and the deep respect we have for the diverse traditions, customs, and beliefs of our residents.”

Sergeant Billy Li from Whitsunday PCYC said he was thrilled to see so many people attend the Multicultural Festival and that it had been expanded to accommodate more stalls and activities.

“It was a really good turnout, and we used a lot more space this time, outside onto the footy field” he said.

“It was amazing to see people coming through and enjoying the space.”

By coincidence, the first Multicultural Festival Citizenship Ceremony held a special place in Sgt Li’s heart as his wife Sunny Hsu was awarded her citizenship on the day.

Mrs Hsu, who is originally from Taiwan, has been in the country for 10 years and the couple have a seven-year-old daughter.

“It means a lot to us,” said Sgt Li.

“We’ve been in the country a long time and it’s good to become a true Aussie!

“She’s totally adapted to the culture and is really enjoying living in the Whitsundays and being part of the small community.”

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Mayor Julie Hall (centre) welcomes new citizens at a special ceremony held as part of the Multicultural Festival over the weekend. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

Sergeant Billy Li from Whitsunday PCYC with his wife Sunny Hsu, who was awarded citizenship on Sunday, and their seven-year-old daughter. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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