Helen Alvers is most known in the Mackay community as a local hero in the nursing industry, with an impressive background of 48 years in the field.

Throughout her remarkable journey, she has been exposed to vast changes in regards to patient care and hospital technology.

One thing that hasn’t changed over the years…is her unwavering passion and advocacy towards caring for others.

Helen has spent a large portion of her career at Mackay Base Hospital, recently retiring after 17 years as the Nurse Unit Manager (NUM) in the Child and Adolescent Unit (CAU).

Helen started her training at Mackay Base Hospital in 1976 as a 20-year-old after she spent two years studying science at university in Townsville.

"It was three years on-the-job training, plus study and then an exam at the end to get a Certificate of Nursing to become a registered nurse," she said.

"It was the three-level old brick building facing Bridge Road with the old-fashioned long wards.

“The rooms were split into two with 10 beds to each room. There weren't many private rooms back then," she said.

Coincidently, she met her husband Dennis three years after beginning her training in 1979, whilst he painted the walls of the hospital ward.

She married Dennis in 1982, and had children in 1983 and 1985, but was forced to leave her job as there was no maternity leave offered back then.

While working casually as a midwife and in the women’s unit at the Base Hospital, Helen helped establish the Toy Library in Mackay and also spent countless hours volunteering as a disability services advocate alongside Dennis.

In the last 17 years, Helen served in various roles in the Child and Adolescent Unit as well as furthering her studies in paediatrics, oncology and leadership.

She led the ward as NUM through many challenges and changes including four moves for renovations and restorative work, the Covid pandemic, initial P Block discussions and additionally helped establish the outreach clinical nurse role.

“The biggest challenge has always been the change in technology in hospitals, particularly the digitising of records.

“There’s always a lot to learn but change is inevitable; it’s never easy but you have to adapt.

“But what makes it all worthwhile is seeing patients leave here, and they are well again.”

Reflecting on her journey, Helen said: "Patients really do appreciate what we do, but the reality is that part of being a nurse is it’s not always easy, especially when you are witnessing these kids facing such great health hurdles.

To celebrate Helen’s last day at Mackay Base Hospital, afternoon tea was provided by the ward, followed by an overwhelming bunch of gifts and beautiful flowers.

Friday, February 2 marked one last memorable moment of Helen’s nursing at Mackay Base Hospital.

Her last parting advice to nursing colleagues was to “spread their wings”.

By Mackay Hospital and Health Service

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Helen Alvers celebrating her last day at Mackay Base Hospital. Photo credit: Mackay Hospital and Health Service

Mackay Isaac Tourism (MIT) unveiled a new destination events marketing campaign ‘Yours 2 Discover’ to align with the region's exciting and diverse events calendar.

The campaign which will run from 29 February to 29 June 2024 is designed to entice the youth market, families, couples and empty nesters to have a getaway, enjoy our events and stay a little longer to explore the region's natural gems.

Mackay Isaac Tourism Chief Executive Officer Al Grundy said that with the amazing array of events on offer, now is the time to block out your calendar for a Mackay Isaac event plus a holiday.

“We are urging travellers to forget the southern winter and hustle of the city and plan a holiday in the Mackay Isaac Region. From coral reef adventures of the Great Barrier Reef to scenic flight experiences admiring the majestic landscapes of the Peak Range National Park,” Mr Grundy said.

Yours 2 Discover will run across various media platforms (YouTube, catch-up TV, Facebook, Instagram, radio and television), maximising its reach to audiences across Australia.

Nebo Rodeo, Saint Lawrence Wetlands Weekend and Mackay Festival of Arts are some of the events that are being featured in the 2024 events calendar.

Mackay Regional Council Director Planning, Growth and Sustainability, Aletta Nugent said Council was very excited to see a campaign that highlighted our iconic annual events and the events that were attracted to the Mackay Isaac Region.

“Our 2023/24 Invest Mackay Events and Conference Attraction Program alone has secured 35 events for our region, covering everything from national-level wakeboarding and skateboarding competitions to music festivals, yacht races and everything in between,” Ms Nugent said.

“And, of course, we have some iconic winter festival events like Daly Bay Illuminate and Wisely Wine and Food Day that have strong appeal to weekend travellers and visiting families,” she said.

“These events are drawcards in their own right, but when marketed collectively, they allow visitors to create some truly original and memorable itineraries.”

Isaac Regional Council Mayor Anne Baker said the region has been steadily etching a name for itself on the national and global tourism map.

“We have worked in step with our communities and stakeholders whether it is through St Lawrence Wetlands Weekend, Nebo Rodeo or the Clermont Historical Centre, to make the Mackay Isaac region a sought-after destination,” Mayor Baker said.

“Our picturesque scenery serves as a major drawcard for any organiser or traveller, promising an unforgettable experience on the road less travelled.

“By showcasing our region’s stunning attractions alongside our diverse events, we aim to entice holidaymakers to extend their stay and soak in all that the region has to offer.”

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L-R: Mackay Isaac Tourism Interim CEO Jeff Stuart-Harris, Mackay Isaac Tourism Chief Executive Officer Al Grundy, Mackay Regional Council Director Planning, Growth and Sustainability, Aletta Nugent launched MIT’s new tourism campaign at the Mackay Botanic Gardens

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Get ready for some family-friendly fun! The playground at Iluka Park is set to reopen this weekend, weather permitting, on Saturday, March 23.

Exciting upgrades are almost completed, with the climbing unit getting replaced along with a new Spica playground spinner included for extra fun!

Additionally, new sections of concrete footpath and softfall edging are being installed to enhance safety.

As part of the improvements, the rubber softfall below selected play units will be replaced with artificial turf, providing a more comfortable and visually appealing play area.

Keep an eye out for potential updates and announcements as the reopening date approaches!

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Photo Credit: Mackay Regional Council (Facebook)

Iluka Park is set to open this weekend with new equipment said to better the safety for children.

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I went for a check-up at the skin clinic the other day and when I went in to see the doctor I accidentally left my car keys and wallet on the seat next to where I had been waiting.

My car was parked out the front and it was virtually an open invitation for someone to grab the remote, jump in the car and have some fun with my cash and credit card.

It had been a busy day and I had been sending work emails and texts as I was waiting to see the doctor, so while my body and soon-to-be-burned-off sunspot were definitely at the clinic, my head was not.

When I came out to reception to pay for the treatment I realised I didn’t have my wallet. I went back to the doctor’s room and, no, I hadn’t left it in there so I returned to where I had been sitting and waiting and there it was, lying on the next seat with my keys.

My car was parked right outside the front door and, while I didn’t leave written directions for a thief and a map to my car, it is not a very common type of vehicle in Mackay and the remote control has very clear and distinctive branding. It would have been pretty easy to identify.

The people on either side of the seat smiled as I leaned over and grabbed my belongings and I went and paid for the treatment.

As I paid the woman at reception I mentioned that the clinic had “very honest clients” but it also got me thinking about the crime situation in Mackay compared to other areas of Queensland.

As a real estate agent, I get a lot of calls from investors from down south who ask about the quality of the suburbs of Mackay they are looking at. They want to make sure they are not buying in an area known for crime.

Buyers from southern states hear stories about crime in Queensland, in particular youth crime in regional areas.

There are definitely areas of regional Queensland that have a high level of crime and it seems pretty clear that Townsville has a problem with property crime.

But when real estate buyers from southern regions ask me about Mackay I can honestly say that this is not a high crime area. I speak to people from all over the city and the consensus seems to be that they feel safe in their homes and when they are out and about on the streets.

This is, of course, not to say there is no crime because that happens in every city. Drugs, particularly ice, seem to be as big an issue here as anywhere. So clearly there is crime, both against people and property and it would be stupid to suggest otherwise.

However, I feel that Mackay is relatively safe and certainly does not have the level of crime currently being experienced in other cities and regions.

When I speak to investors from down south I am a big advocate for Mackay on several fronts … our strong economy, superb lifestyle, terrific weather, low rental vacancies, access to the Whitsundays etc.

I also tell them that compared to other cities, there is very little crime in the suburbs and they should feel confident buying in what is typically a low-crime area.

There are some dangerous features of life here, not least our belting midday summer sun so make sure you get your skin checked and, just to be safe, hold on to your wallet and keys.

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It’s that time of year again when we are giving one local school in Mackay and the Whitsundays $10,000!

Jake and I have had the best time getting out to visit so many local schools who have entered to win.

For me personally it has been a chance to have a sticky beak at which school I might enrol my kids in.

With my daughter off to kindy next year I can’t believe I’m already at the stage of having to think about school.

Feels like only yesterday I was competing in hunger games for a daycare spot, and now it looks like it’s the same for schools.

Surprisingly finding the decision quite stressful.

With all the babies born during covid it feels there is too many kids the same age and not enough spots at schools/daycares.

Gone are the days of applying for a spot at school and being 100 per cent sure you’ll get in.

Such an important decision picking which school to send your child to, trying to basically predict the future as to where they’ll be happy.

If you have any info on recommendations, please let me know!

I have been chatting with every child that comes in to read the weather for our Weather Wiz Kid segment that we have on air every Wednesday, getting firsthand info from students and their parents on how they feel about their school.  

You can register to have your child be the Weather Wiz Kid at Star1019.com.au. Goodluck to all the schools who have registered to win Star’s School Of The Year, tune in to hear the winner announced next week!

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Shortages remain an annual issue for growers and harvest contractors. It is a fact of life that seasonal workers need to maintain a living year-round, and so often move on to other regions post-harvest, or find more permanent work. However, for the viability of the entire sugar industry, it is vital that harvesters recruit enough haulout drivers that they can get the harvested crop off to sidings to load to cane trains. The work is a critical link in the delivery of crop from paddock to mill.

CANEGROWERS Mackay Chairman Kevin Borg said the organisation is committed to supporting new workers to the industry.

“It’s important for new workers to the sugar industry to gain the practical skills they need to do the work, and the workplace health and safety awareness so that the industry can work towards the goal of an injury-free harvest,” he said.

“To that end, for over 15 years CANEGROWERS Mackay annually delivers two four-day courses on-farm in April-May, led by experienced grower harvesters and backed by RTO Axiom College. It has delivered some great results for the harvest sector and people looking to the sugar industry for work.

“With the emerging bio-commodities sector, and a world looking towards renewable products, it’s an exciting time to connect with the sugar industry.”

CANEGROWERS Mackay is inviting people to apply for the 2024 courses starting 30 April and 7 May, with 20 fully funded spots available. The courses are funded through the QLD Government Skilling Queenslanders for Work program.

Amie Williams took the course in 2023, and had secured work with a Pioneer Valley grower as she prepared to take the course. She said that she left the course with full confidence in her capability to do the work of a haulout driver. In 2024, she will work with the same grower.

“The course was really invaluable. I worked all last season, and had no accidents, my boss was really happy, and has employed me again this year,” Ms Williams said.

For Amie, the course was an opportunity to re-connect with cane growing, the industry which her great-grandfathers had chosen, and to move out of hospitality, where she had worked for nine years. She had approached an employment agency about truck work, and the course was suggested to her.

“They suggested I give this course a try, and it all just fell into place. With the family history, it just feels like what I am meant to do!” Visit www.mackaycanegrowers.com.au and look under training to connect with the course, or call 4944 2600.

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Senior Trainer Ron Gurnett shares a lifetime of experience in harvest with course participants

Amie Williams 

Kevin Borg with 2023 trainee George Sweeney

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In the light of youth crime, political tensions and war we seem to be living in the pain of a perpetual Good Friday – without the “Good” bit.  This Easter season I encourage us all to find the hope of the resurrection – It is not just a wishful hope, but based on a real and certain rock of truth and freedom.

Holy Thursday and Good Friday we commemorate facts in history.  Jesus, considered a miracle worker, a good man, was whipped, mocked and crucified.  Christians believe that when Jesus died on the cross, he took the sin of the whole world and paid our debt with the sacrifice of his life.  

On Sunday the stone from the tomb was rolled back and no body was found.  What we believe about Sunday is a matter of faith, however, many eye-witnesses testified that they saw Jesus – not as a ghost, but as flesh and blood.  

We live in times that are painful, but Christians are certain of a hope in the resurrection, and a God who loves us so much that he was willing to suffer and die for us.  

We have a choice; stay in the pain of Friday striving in our own limited strength, or choose to believe in the resurrection where there is hope for eternal life and eternal love.  I’ve made my choice, how about you?

By Reverend Niki Vella-Power

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Reverend Niki Vella-Power

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As the excitement builds for the countdown of the Mackay Sugar Ag Trade Expo 2024, Western Suburbs Leagues Club is set to host a spectacular celebration of all things agricultural!

Julie Crowley, Coordinator for the event said "We've been thrilled with the response from exhibitors, with bookings pouring in daily.

“We have an incredible lineup of stallholders already confirmed, ensuring two days packed with action, displays, products, and services catering to all aspects of agriculture and rural lifestyles."

Julie emphasised the importance of local business support for the Expo's growth and future success.

"We extend our heartfelt thanks to the businesses that have secured their sites for 2024.

“For those who haven't yet, there's still time to join us in this exciting endeavour," she added.

The Expo is proud to welcome back its esteemed naming rights sponsor, Mackay Sugar, a member of the Nordzucker Group. "Mackay Sugar brings professionalism and excitement to our event and showcases their commitment to the Sugar Industry in our region and we eagerly anticipate collaborating with them not only in 2024 but also in the years ahead," Julie remarked.

The 2024 Mackay Sugar Ag Trade Expo will take place this April at Wests Leagues Club, Branscombe Rd Walkerston, on Friday, April 19th, from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm, and Saturday, April 20th, from 8:30 am to 3:00 pm.

Attendees can expect a family-friendly atmosphere with live music by The Gottani Sisters, whip-cracking demonstrations, line dancing, exhibitor demonstrations on both days, and a special kid’s zone on Saturday featuring various attractions.

Admission to the event is $5 for adults, with free entry for children under 13 years old.

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What: Mackay Sugar Ag Trade Expo 2024

When: Friday, April 19th, from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm, and Saturday, April 20th, from 8:30 am to 3:00 pm

Where: Wests Leagues Club, Branscombe Rd Walkerston

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Another massive name is Australian literature will be gracing the Whitsundays Writers Festival stage, with Christos Tsiolkas recently announced to attend.

Prepared for the September festival, Melbourne based author, Christos Tsiolkas has penned nine novels, and is an accomplished playwright, essayist, and screenwriter.

His novels include ‘The Slap’, which won Overall Best Book in the Commonwealth Writers' Prize 2009, Australian Literary Society Gold, and 2009 Australian Booksellers Association and Australian Book Industry Awards Books of the Year.

With ‘Loaded’, ‘The Jesus Man’, and ‘Dead Europe’ winning the 2006 Age Fiction Prize and 2006 Melbourne Best Writing Award and ‘Barracuda’ and ‘Damascus’ winning the 2019 Victorian Premier's Literary Award for Fiction, and 7½ won the Melbourne Prize for Literature.

‘The Slap’ and ‘Barracuda’ were both adapted into celebrated television series.

Christos’ most recent novel is ‘The In-Between’, released in 2023.

“We planned for the best and we are attracting Australia’s leading authors,” said Festival President Karen Jacobsen.

“We are very excited to announce Christos’ attendance and we know he will bring many excellent insights for Festival attendees.

“My only advice for those who might experience Festival FOMO is to subscribe to receive Festival news from our website, so you don’t miss out!’ Karen said.

The Whitsundays Writers Festival is a premier literary event dedicated to fostering creativity, dialogue, and appreciation for the written word. Bringing together acclaimed authors, aspiring writers, and avid readers, the Festival celebrates the diverse tapestry of storytelling while showcasing the natural beauty of the Whitsundays region.

The Festival, spanning three days from Friday, September 6, to Sunday, September 8, 2024, will also feature the prestigious Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards. The Heart Awards provide well-deserved recognition and financial rewards to talented writers for best unpublished manuscript, short story, poetry, and book design.

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WHAT: Whitsundays Writers Festival

WHEN: 6-8 September

www.whitsundayswriters.com

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Christos Tsiolkas announced to join Whitsundays Writers Festival roster. Photo supplied

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Easter is about celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ and God’s invitation to share in resurrection joy. What are you doing at Easter? Going away, attending a conference, or going to church?

You are invited to join us in one of our Uniting Churches in the Mackay region. From Mirani in the Valley, to Sarina in the south, to Northside in the northern suburbs, to St Paul’s and Armitage in the city. There is a Uniting Church near you to which you are invited to attend.

At one of our services, you can hear the Bible read, sing classic hymns and receive the message that: ‘if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new!’ (2 Corinthians 5:17 NRSV).

The first male disciples were afraid that the body of Jesus had been stolen and they returned to their homes, but two angels appeared to Mary and then Jesus appeared and called her by name; she hears his voice and recognises him.

Jesus gives Mary the message to tell the other disciples of his resurrection and ascension, which she accepts and declares to them ‘I have seen the Lord’ (John 20:18 NRSV).

Just as Mary was the first speaker of good news, let us spread the word to all around.

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Last week a big week of bridge was held at the Mackay Contract Bridge Club. Week one of the Mackay Teams, Week 6 of the Nation-Wide Pairs and the two section Whitsunday Zone Pairs event. Thirty pairs over two days battled to win the Open and Novice sections of the Whitsunday Zone Pairs, with the winners of each section representing the zone in the Queensland Festival of Bridge in Brisbane in October. Terrence Sheedy & Noel Bugeia from Mackay Contract Bridge Club took out the Open Section and Sue McInnes & Deb Breeze from the Bowen Contract Bridge Club took out the Novice Section.

Weekly Results

Monday 11 March 2024 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1st

Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy

1st

David Ting / Eric Goodchild

2nd

Geoffrey Patterson / Noel Bugeia

2nd

Geoff Cowan / Sandy Patterson

3rd

Karen Caldwell / Noel Saunders

3rd

Ming Ting / Pamela Finger

4th

Patricia Garner / Mick King

4th

Monica Darley / Carmel Brown

Tuesday Evening 12 March 2024 –5 Table One Winner Green Points

1st

Geoff Patterson / Ken Seaniger

2nd

Diane Morgan / Geoff Taylor

3rd

Eric Goodchild / Noel Bugeia

4th

Faye Wright / Terry Sheedy

Wednesday 13 March 2024 – Mackay Teams, Week 1 of 3 - 10 Table Mitchell Red Points

1st

Noel Bugeia Team

2nd

Joy Robinson Team

3rd

Terry Sheedy Team

4th

Victor Mason Team

Thursday Evening 14 March 2024 – 6 Table One Winner

1st

Ann Whitmore / Sandra Morris

2nd

Patricia Garner / Jan Harris

3rd

Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia

4th

Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy

4th

Frances Brown / Jewel Schmidt

6th

Kean Seaniger / Robert Carless

Friday 15 March 2024 – NWP Week 6 of 24 - 8 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1st

Josie Cowley / Victor Mason

1st

Ming Ting / David Ting

2nd

Joyce Deguara / Toni Large

2nd

Janelle Conroy / Pamela Finger

3rd

Terrence Sheedy / Noel Bugeia

3rd

Geoff Taylor / Joy Robinson

4th

Debra Goodchild / Lorna Shuttlewood

4th

Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson

Saturday 16 March 2024 / Sunday 17 March 2024 – 2024 Whitsundy Zone Pairs – 15 Table Red Points

Section A

Secton B (Novice)

1st

Terrence Sheedy / Noel Bugeia

1st

Deb Breeze / Sue McInnes

2nd

Eric Goodchild / David Ting

2nd

Sandra Morris / Ann Whitmore

3rd

Diane Holewa / Max Holewa

3rd

Griffin Bancroft / Jill Brabon

4th

Lorna Shuttlewood / Susan Wright

4th

Graham Seaborne / Jane Seaborne

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Photo Credit: Mackay Contract Bridge Club (Facebook)

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Lorna (right) with Whitsunday Zone Winners Sue, Terry, Deb & Noel

St Patricks Day Shenanigans

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Sarina State High School 2024 Mocktail

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Over sixty enthusiastic runners gathered for an invigorating Sunday morning run in West Mackay. The scratch start race kicked off at Club Secretary Julie’s house, sending runners from the Whibley’s backyard reserve towards the Mackay Base Hospital and onto the scenic Catherine Freeman Trail. Those that tackled the twelve-kilometre continued towards Forgan Smith Bridge before returning for the homeward trek.

Luke Leven had a sensational twelve-kilometre run, bolting from the starter’s gun with fellow junior runner, Jared Mackie who sprinted the entire course with Luke being the eventual victor. Third placed George Hannaford was only ten seconds behind Jared with Greame Harris closing in fast ahead of Shane Donnollan, Ashley Miles, Brad Fraser, John Rae, Matthew Bampton, Darrin Pullen and Robin Stinson. 

Alana Knezevic had an exciting run placing second outright as well as first for the girls ahead of Naomi Ballard and Lily Leven, all clocking under sixty minutes. Mel Esau, Glynis Forse, Rhiann Massey, Emily Hayles, Carmel Mahon, Emma Johnson and Mel Harris ran well to round out the top ten ladies.

Five-kilometre female winner, Millie Bishop outpaced the field to finish one-minute clear of Judy Zahn and Jo Hughes. Lauren Connor, Leanne Connor, Kim Saron, Katrina Ogilvie and Natasha Joynson joined them in quick succession at they crossed the finish line. 

This Sunday’s Club event commences at 7am from Cape Hillsborough National Park, Risely Parade. The six-kilometre and 10-kilometre Hillsborough Turtle Trail will begin with handicap points up for grabs. New runners will need to be registered online by Thursday 5pm. Non-members are most welcome to join in for a $10 race day fee, members pay $2. Everyone is welcome to stay for a free post run sausage sizzle and zooper doopers.

Introducing a new running event - The Great Barrier Reef Arena Gift, which is set to take place on March 23, 2024. This inaugural event will bring together Australia’s finest running talent across various races, genders, ages, and distances. 

For more information, visit the official GBRA Gift website or contact Harrup Park, Great Barrier Reef Arena on (07) 4944 0000.

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Contributed By Janelle Tilse

Images Supplied

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Mackay Road runners lovely ladies left to right Millie, Alana, Lauren, Glynis, Emma, Mel, Leanne, Natasha, Jo, Hostess Julie, Kim, Mel and Jan welcome former Mackay Road Runner, Bernadette Forsyth (far right) back to Mackay for a week after being based for three years in Scotland.

Mackay Road Runners Club President Brendan Bishop (back left) announced race briefing to approximately sixty runners including Craig and Darrin (back row); Matthew, Andrew and Robin (front row).

Len Haworth marginally leads David Isbister in the 5km Whibley’s Wander at the 3km water stop.

Twelve-kilometre competitors, Naomi and Sacha enjoy the post-race refreshments at the Whibley’s Wander.

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Mayoral Candidate Ry Collins steamed out in front as soon as the count began on Saturday, becoming the clear leader and commanding the most votes within the community.

As of the time of writing, 79.64 per cent of the votes had been counted by the Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ), with Collins claiming 47.52 per cent, Phil Batty 25.35 per cent, Peter Hood 14.54 per cent and Richard Evans 12.60 per cent.

Within the coming days, postal votes will be counted and preferences allocated, with Collins expected to declare shortly after.

Continued on page 3.

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Ry Collins and his wife Mel have been celebrating this week. Photo credit: Norina Jane

New Face At The Helm

Following Saturday’s Local Government Elections, the Whitsunday Regional Council is about to welcome a new leader, Ry Collins, who is currently holding a significant lead, his Mayoral tenure expected to be announced within the week.

Previously known for his integral role as Chief Executive Officer of Bowen Gumlu Growers Association, Collins has a wealth of knowledge in advocacy, liaising with Minsters and sitting on boards.

He is looking forward to bringing these skills and experience to his new role as Mayor.

At just 44 years old, Collins is the youngest of all the Mayoral Candidates, and will be one of the youngest Mayor’s in the region’s history.

“My skills are current and active,” he said.

“From advocacy to working on state-wide issues – I have been doing all of this already and I’ve got a lot of horsepower, a lot of drive to get up every morning and fight for our region.”

Excitement was definitely in overdrive for Collins and his team of over 20 volunteers on polling day last Saturday, with many of them out in the hot sun for over 10 hours.

“I can’t thank the volunteers enough, some of them have been with me the whole time and inspired me to keep going,” he shared.

“The results we’ve seen have been a lot to do with the volunteers, having the right people contributed to the result.”

After voting stations closed, Collins went to Whitsunday Christian College to witness the count, and by 9pm that evening they “started to see some really good numbers”.

Sadly, however, with every winner there are those who are unsuccessful.

The closest candidate was Phil Batty who led his campaign with passion and dedication.

“Thank you to the people that voted for me and the people that helped me, I kept my integrity and the result is what it is,” Mr Batty said.

Candidate Richard Evans also led his campaign with integrity and passion, determined to help create change within the community.

He now requests the community “stop complaining” about the systemic issues within Council.

“You had the opportunity for accountability and change and you rejected it for the status quo,” he said.

The first Council meeting which will be officiated by the new Mayor is due to take place on April 27.

In the lead-up to this Collins will receive a week’s direct training and will spend time getting to know his new role.

He is “looking forward to spending time with all the Councillors and empowering them in their roles” and meeting with the CEO of Council to find out how he can best support him.

During his first 100 days, Collins will be “meeting with stakeholders and developing a level of prioritisation around issues”.

His focus will be on advocating for flood-proofing on Hamilton Plains, environment compliance, creating action plans and timelines and electing a new Deputy Mayor.

Fundamentally, Collins wants to make sure Council is accessible and has a strong internal culture, which will sure to have positive effects on the entire community.

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Ry Collins is expected to announce as Mayor of Whitsunday Regional Council over the coming days. Photo credit: Norina Jane

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Hi Everyone,

I don’t know about the rest of you, but I feel like I have lived and breathed the local government elections over the past four weeks.

Attending lively community forums, chatting with candidates on a weekly basis and running extensive coverage in the paper – by the time Saturday rolled around I was exhausted!

A huge congratulations to Ry Collins for striking out in the lead and looking more than likely to claim the title of our next Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor.

I met with him and his wife, Mel, earlier in the week and it was great to see both his enthusiasm and sincerity – he genuinely wants what’s best for the community and I think his positive, collaborative attitude will be a real asset.

I also spoke with the new Councillors this week and congratulations goes to both Clay Bauman and John Finlay.

When I was chatting with John, he thanked me for the coverage and said it was “good fun” and that he’d really enjoyed the experience.

Firstly, it’s always great to feel appreciated for all the hard work we do at the paper and secondly, I was so glad he’d enjoyed it all!

For those of you that don’t know, over the past five weeks we’ve been running a series of Q&As with candidates – asking them about their views on divisive issues, but also general interest questions so the community could get to know them better.

This coverage has given each of them a platform and we hope it has also given you the opportunity to make an informed decision at the polling booths.

This week in the paper we celebrate the success of the winning candidates, but let’s also take a minute to commend all the brave and bold individuals who stood up for election in the first place.

It must take some guts to put yourself out there in the public arena and I think everyone ran a good race.

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Rach

Quote of the Week: “Win as if you are used to it, lose as if you enjoyed it for a change” (Ralph Waldo Emerson)

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