Celebrating the school holidays in style, the Proserpine Entertainment Centre is inviting the community to come and experience movie magic for less with $10 tickets for the month of April.

Whether you're planning a family outing during the school holidays or just looking to enjoy a movie with friends, now is the perfect time to catch the latest films without breaking the bank.

From Kung Fu Panda 4 to Godzilla x Kong, there are a wide range of family favourites showing this month.

‍

‍

Are you looking at getting into golf? Or do you simply want a fun afternoon out with the girls?

If so, join Proserpine Golf Club for its lively Chip and Sip event.

To start off with, sip on a glass of bubbles to gain that liquid courage and to get the conversation flowing with your fellow golf-curious ladies.

Then enjoy a one-hour golf clinic followed by a 9-hole Ambrose with full use of the golf buggies.

Fear not, Proserpine Golf Club isn’t expecting you to become the next Tiger Woods without a bit of guidance, so their expert PGA instructors will be there to ensure you grasp the basics of chipping, putting, and swinging like a pro. No pressure, just pure fun!

You never know, this event may even start your golf journey with a hole-in-one!

All ladies are encouraged to come and try, it is guaranteed to be filled with plenty of laughs, whether that’s from sending the ball flying into the water hazard or perhaps missing the ball entirely.

It’s set to be an event filled with laughs, good vibes and an inclusive atmosphere where everyone feels safe and empowered to start their golf journey.

So, get your group of girls together, dust off your golf clubs, or borrow from the club, and join the bunch of ladies ready for their afternoon of fun.

Space is limited, and reservations are essential. Book now at 07 4945 1337 or email Proshop@proserpinegolfclub.com.au.

WHAT: Chip and Sip
WHERE: Proserpine Golf Club
WHEN: Sunday 5 May, 1:00pm-3:30pm
TICKETS: $50 per person

Come along to the Proserpine Golf Club for Chip and Sip, Image supplied shutter stock

‍

These school holidays, not only can you get books and movies out at your library to entertain your kids, you can also take them down to the library to participate in a variety of fun activities.

If arts and craft is your child’s favourite hobby, they will have a blast painting water pistols, or they can build clay pet figures, create recycled treehouses or make lanterns at the Lalune Lantern Workshop and many more.

Session numbers are limited, and some activities require bookings. To take part in these activities and book your place contact your local library.

Bowen Library – 4761 3670
Cannonvale Library – 4846 9400
Collinsville Library – 4785 5366
Proserpine Library – 4945 0275

Cannonvale Library

   • Tuesday 9 April, 10:00am - Lalune Lantern Workshop | ages 5+
   • Wednesday 10 April, 10:00am – Super Hero Storytime | ages 6 and under
   • Thursday 11 April, 10:00am – Polymer Clay Pet Miniatures | ages 8+
   • Thursday 11 April, 2:00pm – Polymer Clay Pet Miniatures | all ages

Proserpine Library

   • Tuesday 9 April, 10:00am – Clay Pinch Pot | ages 5+
   • Tuesday 9 April, 2:00pm – Paddle Pop wall hanging | ages 5+
   • Wednesday 10 April, 10:00am – Holiday Play | ages 0-5
   • Wednesday 10 April, 2:00pm – Lalune Lantern Workshop | ages 5+
   • Thursday 11 April, 10:00am – Colourful Coasters | ages 5+
   • Thursday 11 April, 2:00pm – Pinch Pot Painting | ages 5+

Bowen Library

   • Tuesday 9 April, 9:30am – Waterpistol painting | ages 5+
   • Tuesday 9 April, 11:00am – Waterpistol painting | ages 5+
   • Tuesday 9 April, 2:00pm – Magic Rainbow Board | ages 5+
   • Thursday 11 April, 10:00am – Secret Message Bracelets | ages 7+
   • Thursday 11 April, 2:00pm – Lalune Lantern Workshop | ages 5+

Collinsville Library

   • Tuesday 9 April, 10:00am – Hot Air Balloon | ages 3+

Collinsville Community Centre

   • Friday 12 April, 10:00am – Lalune Lantern Workshop | ages 5+

‍

Get set for Roller Skating Fever in Airlie Beach, with the announcement of a regular Saturday Morning Mini Roller Disco at the PCYC.
 
Run by Jane Streeter of Rolldance Skate School, the Roller Disco will be a great activity for kids, adults and families, with limited skate rental available or BYO skates.
 
Jane also runs Learn to Skate classes for kids and adults and her inaugural roller skate lessons last term were a huge success.
 
Due to the popularity of first term, Jane will be offering two kid’s classes as well as two adult classes, all at the Whitsunday PCYC on their “delicious wooden floors”.

“I’m excited to be bringing skating back to the PCYC, especially for the Saturday morning mini roller disco, open to everyone, not just class members.” 
 
Jane has previously taught Latin Dance in the Whitsundays but pivoted to roller skating during the pandemic, when she was searching for a new hobby that could be done solo.

“I watched a Bruno Mars music video for his song “Skate” and discovered that it was possible to dance on wheels!” she shated.

“I was hooked immediately. Since then, I have trained intensively and gained a teaching certification in 2023. I can’t help myself from wanting to teach others – I want everyone to feel the fun and joy that I do!”
 
Classes start up again in Term 2 and the first roller disco will run 10 – 11:30am on 20th April. For more information, head to www.rolldance.com.au or @rolldanceskateschool

WHAT: Morning Mini Roller Disco
WHERE: Whitsunday PCYC
WHEN: Saturday 20th April – 10am-11.30am

‍

This week’s 9-hole stableford weekly comp saw Troy Pettiford in first place with 21 points, second with 20 points was Justyn Durbin and third place with 20 points was Michael Pettiford. 

Good Friday’s 9-hole stableford saw Cory Belke first with 27 points, second with 21 points was Troy Pettiford and third with 19 points was Rhys Bartholomew.

On Easter Sunday we held our first greenskeeper revenge of 18 holes and what a hoot it was. The course included false pins, teeing off from a tyre, putting around the greenskeepers hose and a whole lot more. Can’t wait to do it all again next year.

This Sunday will be Par SVS tee off between 8.30 am – 9.30am. 

‍

Contributed with thanks to Kate Cross.
 

Pictured: Peter and Donna Henderson

‍

As the final touches are put in place, Sarina's eagerly anticipated new hospital on Brewers Road is set to open its doors at noon on April 3.
Executive Director Terry Johnson acknowledged the seamless efforts of all involved, ensuring a smooth transition for patients, staff, and visitors. The recent Community Open Day drew a remarkable 230 attendees, with overwhelming positivity towards the state-of-the-art facility.
Construction finished in February and staff have been undergoing training in new digital technology. While preparations for the move from Hospital Street are in full swing, medical services are said to be continued uninterrupted.

Smiles from the dedicated ladies of Sarina Hospital Staff and Mackay Hospital Foundation. Excitement is brewing as the opening day nears! Photo Credit: Adam Sane.

Open Day For New Sarina Hospital Nears

Construction of the new Sarina Hospital has reached completion and preparations are now well underway for a move from 1 Hospital Street to the new site on Brewers Road.

Executive Director Public Health and Rural Services Terry Johnson said the Sarina project team, the Sarina Hospital team and others throughout Mackay Hospital and Health Service were working hard to ensure a safe transition for patients, staff, and visitors.

“This is an exciting time for our Sarina Hospital staff who have done an amazing job in preparing for this transition and also others across the health service who are busy making sure the many aspects of the new facility are in place,” Ms Johnson said.

“We are moving rapidly towards the operational date of 12noon on Wednesday 3 April at 47 Brewers Road.

“With construction completed in February, the final stages of commissioning include overseeing the fit-out of new equipment, finalising fittings and furnishings and staff continuing training and preparing for the new digital technology.”

Ms Johnson thanked all who attended the new Sarina Hospital Community Open Day held on Saturday, 23 March as well as the Sarina staff and the Mackay Hospital Foundation volunteers who provided assistance.

“The event attracted a fantastic response with around 230 people taking the opportunity to tour the hospital and chat to staff about the new facility,” she said.

“Feedback on the day was very positive and our community are looking forward to the opening of the new hospital.”

Medical care will be provided at the new hospital, 47 Brewers Road, from 12noon Wednesday 3 April 2024.

If you need medical care before this time, please go to 1 Hospital Street, Sarina.
The hospital’s phone number remains the same - (07) 4943 8777.

‍

New Emergency department bays
Rehabilitation Gym
Ambulance Area
Outside View of the facility
Posing ladies of Mackay Hospital Foundation and Sarina Hospital Staff expressing their excitement!

Images Supplied

‍

Dorothy sure hit the nail on the head with her ruby slippers, didn't she? "There's no place like home" – but what if you've got more than one 'home' in your heart? Having called Australia and the beautiful Mackay region my home for over 11 years now, I can attest to the truth in that sentiment.
However, my recent 10-day trip back to the land of the long white cloud to farewell a friend was like a breath of fresh air, (or at least a breath of cold air). It's where my family resides, where my childhood memories were made, and where the world’s best fish and chips, pies and lolly cake await.
But amidst the comfort and familiarity of Aotearoa, there's something undeniably special about returning to Mackay. As I gaze out over the islands and palm trees, that familiar sense of belonging washes over me once again. It's a reminder that while Aotearoa will always hold a special place in my heart, Mackay has become my home away from home – a place where new memories are made and where I've forged deep connections with the community.
What about those who don't have a place to call their own? Those who don’t have a comfortable bed or a roof to provide shelter and safety? It's a sobering reality and one which is worsening. Flip to page 26 for more on how the rental crisis in Australia has hit a new low. And on page 8, we're sharing a heartfelt campaign to help a young woman off the streets and into a safe place to live. Plus, on page 7, read up on how you can support a young mother who lost everything in a devastating house fire.
As we approach the long weekend – filled with chocolate, celebrations, and reflections on the resurrection – let's spare a moment for those facing more uncomfortable nights with no place to call home. After all, amidst the festivities, kindness and compassion go a long way in making a place a home, no matter where it may be.

Amanda

‍

In a heart-warming display of generosity, a dedicated local mother is using her skills as a beautician to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children in Papua New Guinea (PNG).

Over a period of two days (18th and 19th of March) Samira offered henna tattoos, eyebrow threading or waxing, and eyelash tinting at just $15 each to raise funds for a school in the remote town of Aragip.

Aware of the financial constraints faced by many families, especially in remote areas like Aragip, she also offered henna tattoos or face painting for children under 10 at a discounted rate of $5.

The initiative is in support of the charity "Friends of Brilliant Stars," organised by her friend, where 100 per cent of the donations go towards the education and hygiene needs of children. In a school where resources are scarce, every contribution counts in shaping the future of young minds, which is why this particular charity is striving to expand its impact by doubling the number of students it supports.

“Due to the lack of resources, the charity can only support a small number of students, which is roughly 20 in the whole school.

“Unfortunately, lots of families are feeling left out and desperate for their children to also get an education,” Samira said.

As a stay-at-home mother, Samira’s appeal for support is not just a request for financial assistance but a call to rally together for a common goal – providing education and hope to those who need it most and illuminating the path to a brighter future for the children of Aragip.

For further information, visit www.friendsofbrilliantstar.org

‍

Children in Aragip, Papua New Guinea are in need of financial assistance to begin their education. Find out how you can help, at www.friendsofbrilliantstar.org

Image Sourced

‍

Ten Mackay friends have had their week pleasantly de-railed after discovering their 40-year-old syndicate entry scored $1 million in the weekend’s Saturday Gold Lotto draw.
 
The North Queensland ex-railway workers held one of five division one winning entries in Saturday Gold Lotto draw 4453 on Saturday 23 March 2024. The group’s entry won a total prize of $1,054,144.91.
 
One of the winning members revealed how the group came about after an official from the Lott called to confirm the wonderful news.
 
“I’ve been waiting for this call for 40 years!” he laughed.
 
“Thank you very much! We’re a syndicate. There are 10 of us and when we started, we each picked one number.
 
“We’ve been playing the syndicate every week since.
 
“We were all railway workers. We’re pretty much all retired now but we used to all work together. Some of the original boys passed away but someone else always took over the entry.
 
“We put in a ticket for 10 weeks at a time. Each time it comes around, I message ‘Lotto’s due’, they always pay it. Never had to chase anyone up!
 
“They’re so excited. We’ll do something to celebrate. We’ve stayed mates, so it’ll be great to see everyone all together again.
 
“We’ve got five numbers a couple of times. It seemed like we were always just one off or two off. Once we got five and a supplementary number.
 
“Some of us have had a bit of bad luck in the past few months so it couldn’t have come at a better time.
 
“The lady at the bank, she’ll be wrapped. She’s always seeing me come in. I always say, ‘Maybe next time, we’ll get it!’.
 
“It’s wonderful, mate. It’ll make retirement even more relaxing for my wife and I. Right now, we’re doing some travel in Australia, so we’ll continue with that!”
  

‍

The lighting component of the Stadium Mackay refurbishment project is now complete and will offer crowds an enhanced viewing experience.
The upgrades have been finalised in time for the QRL season and the upcoming Freestyle Kings Live Stadium Tour on April 6.
Executive Manager MECC and Events Andrew Bobeldyk said infrared testing showed the upgrades had exceeded expectations.
“The field lighting hit a greater lumen level than was initially anticipated,” Mr Bobeldyk said.
“The lighting has reached 1500 lumens, which is considered optimal for nighttime television broadcast,” he said.
“Feedback we have received so far from broadcasters has been extremely positive.”
The field lights were upgraded to LED lights, which use a quarter of the power of the original field lighting.
“This means power costs for the full four towers will now be the same as the costs for just one of the original towers,” Mr Bobeldyk said.
“And the new lighting setup has also delivered us a far greater level of customisation.
“Our tech teams can now create various theatrical lighting displays using different coloured secondary field lighting, brightnesses and patterns.
“This will take home game atmosphere to another level, as teams will be able to run onto the field to the accompaniment of lighting displays using their home colours choreographed to music.”
Council CEO Scott Owen said council had allocated $3.1 million, which includes $1.782 million of State government funding as part of its current budget for the Stadium Mackay refurbishment and master planning for future development.
The next part of the refurbishment will see the stadium’s seating receive an upgrade, with new seats expected to arrive and be installed mid-year.
The project is proudly funded by the Queensland Government’s Local Government Grants and Subsidies Program and Mackay Regional Council.
Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert said it was part of the Miles Government’s investment in Mackay alongside major investments in health, housing, transport and cost-of-living support.
“Investing in our community facilities means we can attract major events to our region and support good jobs,” she said.
“These lighting upgrades for Mackay’s BB Print Stadium is just one of the projects we’re supporting.
“More than $1.782 million has been provided to the Mackay Regional Council through the Local Government Grants and Subsidies Program to support the $3.1 million project.”

‍

The stadium lighting upgrades will allow for theatrical lighting displays using different
coloured lighting, brightnesses and patterns

‍

OPINION PIECE

The Federal Government has run out of excuses after officially breaking its election promise to reduce household energy bills by $275 following the release of draft regulated electricity prices last week.

The draft Default Market Offer has confirmed that Labor has fallen short by up to $1,027 of its promised price reduction for everyday households, equivalent to a 37 per cent increase since Labor came to power.

Small businesses have also been hit hard by Labor’s spiralling energy crisis with bills soaring by up to $2,047 since Labor made its fatal promise.

As a sign of the suffering faced by everyday Australian households, startling new numbers from the AER have also revealed 116,753 people have been placed into hardship due to their skyrocketing energy bills and 192,459 people are now in energy debt.

Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox said, “Labor was elected on a promise that it would reduce household electricity bills by $275 but instead Australians are now paying among the most expensive bills in the world.

“This is simply unaffordable for residents in my community who are already suffering under Labor’s out of control cost-of-living-crisis.”

The Shadow Minister for Climate Change and Energy Ted O’Brien claimed Labor’s broken promise on energy prices was “unforgiveable”.

“The Australian people deserve nothing less than a complete and unreserved apology from Prime Minister Albanese for making households and businesses pay for his failures.

“Labor has lost all credibility on energy prices and has completely shattered its trust with the Australian people.

“Labor has failed to deliver on its all-important promise to reduce energy prices by $275 on 2021/22 levels and now owes the average Australian household up to $1,027.”

Shadow Minister for Energy Affordability and Western Sydney, Melissa McIntosh said, “after dodging questions on Labor’s $275 power price promise there is now nowhere left for the Prime Minister to hide,” Mrs McIntosh said.

The draft DMO, released by the Australian Energy Regulator, sets the ‘reference price’ for electricity bills for the 2024-2025 period and will now be consulted on before the final determination is made in coming months.

‍

Image supplied. Authorised by Ted O’Brien, LNP, Maroochydore, Qld

‍

On the morning of March 16, Lena and her son, Charlie, decided to go out for the day, however, whilst out, life took a sudden detour and shook up the reality of a normal life for the mother and young son. The faulty aircon system above the fridge in the kitchen caught alight, vastly spreading to the room and through the rear of their Andergrove home.

The laundry, along with the kitchen and all of the contents within the area was destroyed in minutes. The rest of the home was majorly affected by smoke and water damage and in addition, the house was contaminated with toxins from the burnt chemicals.

First responders extinguished the flames before the fire spread to the neighbouring properties, however, unfortunately, Lena’s rental property was deemed unfit to inhabit.  

Despite this, Lena said she is grateful to her quick-thinking neighbours who rescued the family cat.

“I'm incredibly grateful to my neighbours who all chipped in to act quickly and ensure my cat got out safely,” she said.

Losing all furniture items from laundry through to the kitchen appliances, her entire wardrobe, clothing and bedding, Lena said everything was either burnt or damaged by smoke and water.

She said it was a small miracle that a majority of her sons’ toys were low to the ground and remained relatively undamaged, able to be saved with “some elbow grease and helping hands.”

The rest of the family’s basic living needs, however, had completely disappeared and Lena was left with nothing.

Deciding to take to social media, she posted on a community Facebook page, asking for help.

“As much as I hate to ask for a handout, I know my son and I will need a hand-up, especially in this rental and cost of living crisis,” she said in the post.

“Thanks to the kindness of our community, we have been given a fridge, clothes, toys and a single mattress for my son.

“We have no kitchen appliances or dinnerware, glasses or cutlery, we need linen, size queen and king single and kids’ books.

“We need everything a home needs, really.”

“The thing that has upset me the most has been losing my sons two mellowmats, as they were not cheap and he learnt to crawl and walk on them,” she added.

Relying on others and reaching out for community help doesn't come easily, however, a magnitude of wonderful locals quickly jumped on board to lend a helping hand, offering furniture, household items and immense support to Lena and her son Charlie in this challenging time.

If you have any donations that could help, you can kindly drop off items at White Picket Realestate, Shop 4, 28 George Street Mackay.

“A big thank you to all the people who donated items, gift cards and offered kind words, you all changed the trajectory of mine and my little boys life after a devastating event.

“A Special thank you to local businesses: Jeremiah Bullfrog, Woolworths Andergrove, White picket realestate and Cool Mango who donated either their time, gift cards or items to help us rebuild and start over,” Lena said.

‍

Lena with her son Charlie lose everything in Andegrove house fire, but community rallies behind them to help rebuild their lives.

Image Supplied

‍

Tropical Queenslanders have been urged to take extra pre-cautions when taking their four-legged friend on beach walks, after a dog recently swallowed a blue button jellyfish and fell ill due to the toxic creature in South East Queensland.

Blue button jellyfish are described as coin-sized creatures that tend to wash ashore after heavy winds or large tides and as a result, will float close to the water surface.

The toxic species have reportedly washed up at Blacks Beach Mackay and high risks have been raised to not only dog owners, but beach walkers in general.

While research states that they are not deadly to humans, they can still cause skin irritation and have recently proved to be harmful to dogs.

Their tentacles are made up of millions of stinging cells that act like a harpoon, causing pain and swelling in the throat through to the oesophagus and stomach of dogs.

Typically, between November and May, our region becomes a hotspot for various types of jellyfish as the water warms up and worsens during windy weather conditions.

As we power through the months of stinger season, beachgoers and residents are advised to always wear stinger suits when swimming and are encouraged to take extra attention to pets and children when walking near shorelines.

‍

Image of Blue Button Jelly Fish. Photo supplied

‍

In a devastating news update, police have confirmed the body of a man reportedly found at McCreadys Creek around 9.30am on March 21, was that of missing 38-year-old Mackay man, Scott Billingham.

In earlier reports, Mackay detectives were on the search for Mr Billingham after he reportedly went missing on Friday, March 8 around 4pm.

Scott was last seen at an address on Andergrove Road, Andergrove and had not been in contact with friends or family since.

Major concerns were raised for his welfare due to a medical condition he endued along with the length of time he’d been missing, which was said to be out of his character.

Throughout the investigation, Mackay detectives tirelessly pursued leads and appealed to the public for assistance in an attempt to locate him.

On Wednesday, March 20, Mackay Detective Senior Sergeant Chris Eaton appealed to members asking for any information from the public that could assist with the investigation.

“Police are seeking information from members of the public who may have seen Scott in the Andergrove area at approximately 5:10pm On Friday, the 8th of March.

“On the following day, Saturday the 9th, a male person was seen bathing or swimming in the McCreadys Creek area,” said the report.

Police investigations are still ongoing and as such anyone with any further information is urged to contact police immediately.

A report will be prepared for the coroner.

In the wake of this devastating news, the community mourns the loss of Scott Billingham.

Our condolences go out to his family and loved ones during this heart-wrenching time.

‍

Scott Billingham was missing for over 10 days before his body was sadly found last week. Photo supplied

‍

The Queensland Government’s Minor Infrastructure and Inclusive Facilities Fund (MIIFF) has just allocated funding to 171 projects in the Mackay Local Government area where six projects have been approved a total of more than $1.4 million through the program. 

Local sport and active recreation facilities will be made safe, accessible, inclusive and more efficient, through the Minor Infrastructure and Inclusive Facilities Fund (MIIFF). 

New changerooms at Mackay Brothers Football Club, upgraded lighting at Mackay Cricket Association, Mackay Tennis Association for pickleball and Western Suburbs Rugby League Football Club, and upgraded amenities at Mackay Hockey Association are just some of the projects set to receive a share of funding through the $45 million program. 

The program supports two categories: 

Inclusive and Accessible – to support new and upgraded female changerooms and amenities that meet universal design principles 

Safe, Quality and Efficient – to support new, upgraded and end-of-life field of play and ancillary facilities to meet activity requirements at a community level.  
Sport Minister Michael Healy said, “The Miles Labor Government’s top priority is the health and wellbeing of all Queenslanders,”
“I’m thrilled that 171 projects state-wide will receive funding to improve facilities and get more Queenslanders active. 

“This funding helps to make physical activity more accessible and includes female changerooms,” Minister Healy added. 

Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert commented, “Our clubs and sporting facilities are very much at the heart of our community and this funding will ensure they are open and accessible to even more people. 

“It’s terrific that six projects in the Mackay Local Government area are receiving a total of more than $1.4 million through the Queensland Government’s Minor Infrastructure and Inclusive Facilities Fund. 

“I’d like to acknowledge each of the local organisations who were successful with their applications, and I encourage all of our community members to take advantage of improved and more accessible facilities when the projects are finished,” Mrs Gilbert said. 

“Regardless of age or ability, an active community is a healthy community, and the Queensland Government is supporting Mackay in being more active more often.” 
‍

 
Mackay Tennis Association is among five local sporting organisations to receive state government funding to improve safety, accessibility, inclusiveness and efficiency at its club

‍