Organisers of the Whitsundays Writers Festival are thrilled to announce the addition of the Big Book Club High Tea which will be held on the Saturday afternoon of the event, nestled in its heart, and a treat for all to enjoy.

Hosted by two highly acclaimed Australian authors, Sally Hepworth and Kirsty Manning, the special book club event will be an opportunity for attendees to enjoy an intimate afternoon with these two inspiring writers who will share insights into their novels.

New York Times bestselling novelist, Sally Hepworth, has captured the hearts of readers worldwide with her compelling storytelling. With nine novels under her belt and over a million books sold globally, including her latest masterpiece, Darling Girls, Hepworth's literary prowess knows no bounds.

Meanwhile, Kirsty Manning is the bestselling author of The Paris Mystery, The French Gift, The Lost Jewels and The Jade Lily.

Her historical novels have garnered widespread acclaim, captivating audiences across continents. Kirsty’s works, published in multiple languages and adapted for various mediums, stand as testaments to her storytelling brilliance.

Nestled along the picturesque shores of Shingley Beach, the Festival’s Big Book Club High Tea will be held 3:15pm-4:45pm Saturday 7 September at My Rainbow Bakery.

With stunning views of Coral Sea Marina, this secret gem of a café offers a quiet and relaxing space where many local book clubs have met over the years.

For the Big Book Club event, Sally and Kirsty will select some of their books to discuss and attendees will know well in advance of the event. Additionally, attendees will enjoy My Rainbow Bakery’s famous high tea.

Festival President Karen Jacobsen expressed her excitement for the upcoming event, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome everyone to our Festival's Big Book Club High Tea”.

“Kirsty and Sally Hepworth are two talented authors, and their infectious camaraderie promises an afternoon filled with laughter and insight into their journey to literary success.”

Kirsty and Sally join authors Shankari Chandran, Garry Disher, Christos Tsiolkas, Anne Buist, Graeme Simsion, Karina Kilmore, Melissa Ashley, and Jack Roney in this year’s program.

Places for the Big Book Club High Tea will be strictly limited. Details about the Festival’s tickets and how to purchase will be released in April.

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Abell Point Yacht Club’s next monthly sail is this Easter Weekend.

Departing from the Abell Point Yacht Club this Good Friday, join the crew.

Once departed, you will travel towards Cid Harbour, when there, gather on the beach with your fellow sailors.

Enjoy a barbecue, games, chats, adventures or lounging on the beach.

After Cid Harbour, you’ll be travelling to more of the beautiful islands the Whitsundays has to offer.

Long Island or South Molle Island are next up, the island of choice will be dependent on the weather.

There is no cost, and everyone is welcome to join, yachts, power boats and young and old.

Register now by using the email that follows: abellpointyc@gmail.com 

For further information or questions please visit: abellpointyc.com.au

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Thursday's Venuesmart stableford A and B division winners were Aaron Watts and John Oates respectively, each with 38 points, ahead of Sean Fogarty and Wilf Herweg. Pins went to Scott Mason and Zachary Esden.

Jonathon Kellaris had 22 points to win Friday's Met run by a shot from Larry Muller. Pins went to Paul Skelton and Larry Muller.

Kerr Claxton won Saturday's MBW stableford with 41 points, with his B division runner up Barry Mortimer on 34 points.

Joshua Norris had 40 points to win the A division on a count back from Scott Mason.

Tiina Randmae edged out Diane Chard on 28 points for the ladies division. Pins went to Fraser Simpson, Steve Westley, Lewis Tuck, John Clark and two to Diane Chard.

Dean Barnard had 2-under par to win Sunday's stableford with 41 points from Lewis Tuck on 37.

Diane Chard had 31 points to beat Tina Randmae by a shot in the ladies section.

Pins went to Jason Bourke, Brian Allen, Sherri Meade, Ezra Miller and two to Diane Chard.

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Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Golf Pro Shop.

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The weather had improved markedly, so the full 18 holes were open for the Whitsunday Golf Club’s Single Stableford competition last Sunday. While player numbers are still not back to normal, competition was still keen between the 14 competitors and scores were reasonable, if not inspiring. Well done to those who played. 
 
LADIES A GRADE: 
Winner: Tiina Randmae with 30 points on a countback from 
Runner-up: Anna Winterbourn 
Longest Drive: Tiina Randmae - only 6 inches in it 
 
LADIES B GRADE: 
Winner: Linda Wardroper with 24 points 
Runner-up: Pam Casey with 21 points 
Longest Drive: Sally Little 
 
MEN’S A GRADE: 
Winner: Lew Tuck with 37 points 
Runner-up: Jason Bourke with 32 points 
Longest Drive: No-one on the fairway  
 
MEN’S B GRADE  
Winner: Wilf Herweg with 31 points on a countback from 
Runner-up: David Hoy 
Longest Drive: Wilf Herweg 
 
NTPs: 
For the ladies: Linda Wardoper and Pam Casey, not an A grader in sight 
 
For the men: None !! 
 
NAGAs: the honours went to Tina Cook and Andrew Albergo - a family daily double. 
 
NEXT WEEK: the weather is not promising, but if we get to play, it will be a Single Stableford on Easter Sunday, April 7 will be the April MM/Least Putts. Don’t forget to enable putts on your MiScore app. 
 
Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae.
  
 
L> R :  David Hoy, Linda Wardoper, Wilf Herweg and Tiina Randmae. Photo supplied 

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Janice Quadrio is a passionate accredited Mental Health Social Worker who has become an advocate for individuals who have been unable to learn how to drive due to disability and inaccessible services in the community.

Currently there are no vehicles available in the Mackay region that cater to individuals with a disability, forcing those who need training to undertake a lengthy trip to Rockhampton or Townsville for an assessment where they can access a vehicle with specific modifications to suit their needs.

While already facing challenges in everyday life, the added burden of finding accommodation as well as a costly trip makes it difficult for those with a disability to partake in the required driving amount of 30 hours to obtain a license, which Janice says, “is just not practical for both the individual or carer.”

“Think about what your drivers licence means to you – in terms of freedom, access to all of the fabulous things in our community, even employability,” she said.

“It’s that and more for someone with a disability or someone that already has challenges in that area.

“It’s a real social justice issue.”

Since raising her concern, Mackay Community Foundation has jumped on board and provided $9,720 to fund the modification of a vehicle as well as training of an existing qualified driving instructor to provide local access to specialised driving lessons for people with a disability.

Phoenix Place Inc is a disability support service that has also supported the idea by orchestrating the funding from the Mackay Community foundation along with Driving instructor Connie, from ‘You Can Do It’ driving school who kindly offered to have her car modified to suit the specific requirements needed for training and assessment in the community.

With these four powerhouse supporters coming together to make the vision happen, the Mackay region now provides an accessible service to those who need it.

Offering the opportunity for anybody with a disability, of all ages, whether they have had a disability all their life or for those who have had a recent stroke or accident and are needing extra support to be able to continue driving.

Janice reflected on her gratitude for all the supporting contributors that have allowed her idea to come to fruition.

“I was able to get a grant from an organisation whose moto is ‘give where you live,’ which is just great!

“Without all the players coming together it couldn’t have happened.

“The vehicle is now fitted out and ready to rock and roll!

“Whatever enriches some in our community, enriches all in our community,” Janice added.

“This project involves a lot of local organisations and charities to make it happen, it's about empowering people with disability to help them learn to drive and get their license.”

If you would like to donate, you can donate via the Mackay Community Foundation or Phoenix Place Inc.

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Photo Credit: Mackay Community Foundation (Facebook)

Accredited Mental Health Social worker, Janice, with Driving Instructor Connie from ‘You Can Do It Driving School’ and the vehicle now available for community use.

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As the anticipation of election day fades, and candidates catch a breath after months of passionate campaigning, Mackay remains on the edge of its seat as this editor’s note was written, awaiting the outcome of a closely contested mayoral race. With Greg Williamson and Steve Jackson neck and neck, the final result hinges on the delicate process of preferential counting.

While initial polling paints a suspenseful picture, uncertainty looms as we await the final tally. With Williamson obtaining a lead through the primary count at 42.24 percent and Jackson closely trailing at 38.58 percent, the outcome of Mackay's mayoral race hinges on the distribution of those preferences. Laurence Bonaventura's decision to concede, thus transferring his vote share through optional preferential votes, adds an intriguing twist to the unfolding count, potentially reshaping our region’s leadership vision. Bonaventura's concession will play a pivotal role in shaping the final result.

In the midst of this electoral anticipation, this week’s edition provides a refreshing break from the political buzz, featuring heartfelt celebrations at Mackay Hospital Foundation's Dancing With Heart – congratulations to Gardian’s Zach on taking out the win! Also, we share snaps from Sarina State High School's Mocktail event as well as the achievements of this year's Mackay Sugar annual award winners.

Easter is now only a week away. In this edition you will also find some helpful information on where to attend an Easter church service, to remember and reflect on the ‘reason for the season’.

As we eagerly await the formation of our new council, and families are getting ready for Easter holiday escapades, there’s a lot of excitement to unfold in the coming weeks.

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Amanda

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The race for Mackay Regional Council’s top job has been narrowed down to two, with incumbent Greg Williamson and Steve Jackson vying for the mayoral position after Laurence Bonaventura bowed out following Saturday’s local government election.

At the time of writing, 80.23% of the 88,861 enrolled electors’ votes for mayor had been counted, with 41.95% of those going the way of Mr Williamson, 38.63% going to Mr Jackson and 19.42% going to Mr Bonaventura.

Postal votes will continue to be received and counted until next Tuesday, March 26, at which point second preferences will be allocated to determine the next mayor of the Mackay Regional Council.

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And Then There Were Two

Williamson and Jackson Vying For Top Job In Mackay’s Mayoral Race

As votes continue to be counted and preferences allocated, the two remaining candidates vying for the position of mayor of the Mackay Regional Council are both waiting patiently for a declaration.

“There’s nothing you can do at this stage,” said incumbent Greg Williamson.

“There’s no sense of worrying or pre-empting, it’s all done, and the count is yet to come.”

Steve Jackson added that he is trying not “to get too excited about it”.

“I’m just back to normal life now,” he said.

“I’ve got a few experienced people telling me the rule of thumb with preferences and what the numbers are; at the moment, it’s just an educated guess, so it’s going to be very close.”

The race for the top job was narrowed down to Mr Williamson and Mr Jackson after the third candidate, Laurence Bonaventura, conceded defeat.

“I accept the result, the result’s quite clear,” Mr Bonaventura said.

“The result does show, though, that 60 per cent of people voted for change and that’s something I think the new council needs to take on board.”

Once all first preference votes have been counted, all votes for Mr Bonaventura, which stands at over 13,000 votes at the time of writing, will be distributed to their second preference.

Mr Williamson said his campaign was long and unlike previous campaigns with the changing landscape of social media.

“That’s what elections are going to be these days, all based around social media where it’s hard to combat untruths,” he said.

“Particularly when we don’t have daily newspapers and the expense of getting information out these days, it really makes it difficult for a lot of candidates in the field, so they are interesting times.”

“But be that as it may, it was great to fight for the privilege of another four years as Mayor of the Mackay Regional Council.

“I’ve certainly enjoyed the last eight and look forward to completing many of the projects we’ve started”.

Mr Jackson, a business owner and former rugby league player, said it’s been a “hectic” but rewarding campaign.

“It’s been amazing, I’ve learnt so much and experienced things I’ve never experienced in my long life, so I’m very happy that I’ve gone through with it,” he said.

“If they (voters) are prepared to accept an inexperienced mayoral candidate, and I get the same amount of votes as the incumbent who’s been there for quite a while, change may be wanted.”

A councillor of 12 years, Mr Bonaventura said he was honoured to have served his community.

“The achievements that I’ve made personally in council, I’ll always remember, but more than that, it’s those little achievements for people,” he said.

At the time of writing, 22.39 per cent of the 88,861 enrolled electors’ votes for councillor had been counted.

Two independent candidates seeking re-election, Martin Bella and Belinda Hassan, lead the pack with 4.39 per cent and 4.17 per cent respectively.

At the time of writing, another independent candidate followed the two leaders in Peter Sheedy with 4.05 per cent followed by former Member for Dawson George Christensen (3.95 per cent), Narmarca Corowa (3.9 per cent), incumbent Alison Jones (3.84 per cent), former deputy mayor Karen May (3.83 per cent), incumbents Pauline Townsend (3.8 per cent) and Fran Mann (3.78 per cent), and first time candidate Ash-Lee Johnson (3.75 per cent).

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In the community hub of Sarina lies an all-in-one hospitality service called Roots, where coffee and meals are prepared by a tight-knit team, grounded in compassion.

The name of the restaurant represents sticking to your roots, creating connections and acknowledging where you came from to appreciate what you have; thus, the owners of the business have presented a selfless, kind act in an attempt to welcome those struggling financially, to enjoy a meal without the burden of monetary strain.

A poster on the window reads ‘If you are hungry and you have no money, these meals have been paid for in advance. Give a server the ticket and they will have the kitchen prepare your meal,’ followed by a handful of orders catering to all who are in need.

The honourable team at Roots were recognised via a Facebook post on a communal page where they then received numerous comments and messages from the public who were determined to keep the ‘pay it forward’ chain going.

“At Roots, we believe in giving back because we understand the importance of supporting each other.

“We're proud to be a part of a community that looks out for one another, and we encourage everyone to find ways, big or small, to give back.

“Your support in our outreach efforts is invaluable, and we're amazed by the genuine desire to make a positive impact in the community.

“Together, we can make a difference.”

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Photo Credit: Roots. (Facebook)

Image of poster on the window of Roots Café & Restaurant

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Review by Hannah McNamara

The MECC was filled with glamourous dresses, neat suits and pure joy and excitement as guests gathered to watch eight local participants dance their heart out to raise money for the Mackay Hospital Foundation.

Delicious mains and desserts were served with a free drink token included, allowing guests to indulge in a wine, beer or soft drink on arrival. As everyone sat around the tables, chatting and laughing, the star dancers performed their routines one by one.

First to take the stage was Emma Novosel, followed by Josh Smith, Jay Shipton, Brooke Hargrave, Chloe Gunthorpe, Solveig Lobo, Sandy Hubner and Zachary Spencer. While all performances were phenomenal, the real dance queen behind the show was Dolly from Fame Dance School, who taught the contestants their individual dance routines in the span of just a few weeks.

All dancers, participants and guests gave all the glory to the Mackay Hospital Foundation as everyone showcased their appreciation to the organisation for their ongoing service to the community. The Mackay Hospital Foundation saw a major success with the auctions and donations alone, reaching over their goal of $40,000 raised funds on the night!

Solveig Lobo took home the Highest Fundraiser Award while the People’s Choice Award was given to Emma Novosel. All eight participants were acknowledged for their efforts with a dazzling globe trophy.

Guests waited in anticipation for the overall winner to be announced, as the room echoed while thumping fists drum rolled on tables… “and the overall winner is… Zachary Spencer!”

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Photo Credit: Adam Sanne

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Emma Novosel Detective Inspector from Queensland Police Service

The ladies from the Mackay Hospital Foundation dedicating their time to raise funds on the night

Chloe Gunthorpe from Next Accounting

Solveig Lobo from Paradise Outdoor Advertising

Zachary Spencer from Gardian - Mortgage Choice

Dancers all together (left to right) Zachary Spencer, Solveig Lobo, Chloe Gunthorpe, Brooke Hargrave, Jay Shipton, Sandy Hubner, Josh Smith and Emma Novosel

Grand Finale Performance

Official winner, Zachary Spencer!

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The Mackay Turf Club came alive on Friday 15th March, as Mackay Sugar hosted its highly anticipated 2024 Productivity Awards ceremony dedicated to celebrating sugar cane farming excellence across the region. With a remarkable turnout of more than 250 attendees, this annual event served as a testament to the unwavering commitment and remarkable achievements within the Mackay sugar industry.

The evening commenced with an air of excitement as guests gathered to recognise the outstanding contributions of growers, harvesters, and stakeholders who have significantly impacted the industry's growth and prosperity. The Awards showcased exceptional achievements in key productivity segments, including Innovation and Technology, Sustainability, and Research, highlighting the dedication and innovation prevalent among industry participants.

Commenting on the significance of the event, Brent Casey, Mackay Sugar General Manager Commercial and Agriculture, highlighted the importance of increased productivity in ensuring the long-term sustainability of the industry.

"Following the 2023 Crushing Season, the Productivity Awards was a great way to recognize some of the growers, harvesters, and stakeholders who make a positive impact on the industry," stated Mr. Casey.

"Increasing the volume and quality of cane through improved productivity, higher yields, and maintaining acreage is a pivotal part of ensuring a sustainable future for our business,” he said.

The success of the event was further amplified by the generous support of more than 20 local businesses, who play an integral role in fostering productivity and growth across THE Sugar City.

Ten winners were announced, each recognised for their outstanding contributions and exemplary performance in advancing productivity and excellence in sugar cane farming:

Highest Tonnes Sugar per Hectare

 Farleigh Area, sponsored by Mt Ossa Rural – CNJ Townley

 Marian Area, sponsored by Crop Wise – Craig Birkett

 Racecourse Area, sponsored by Liquaforce – Caneola Holdings Pty Ltd

Brown & Hurley Agriculture, Harvesting Group Award (greater than 40,000t)

 Chris Catana

RDO Equipment, Harvesting Group Award (less than 40,000t)

 Scriha Brothers

CANEGROWERS, Sustainable Management Practices Award

 Stuart and Barry Volker

Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Research Excellence Award

 Habana Bay Farming

Dowdens, Innovation and Technology Award

 Ontrack Harvesting

NQ Farmshed, Promising Contributor Award

 Lachlan McLennan

Mackay Sugar, Lifetime Achievement Award

 Charlie McLennan

The recipients of Mackay Sugar’s 2024 Productivity Award stand to inspire and motivate a culture of excellence and innovation within the industry, and highlight the ongoing resilience, ingenuity, and collective efforts of all those involved in Mackay’s sugar cane farming community.

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Mackay Base Hospital has introduced a new cutting-edge medical imaging machine, designed to boost diagnostic services and improve patient outcomes, featuring state-of-the-art technology and artificial intelligence.

The latest advancement to the medical field offers a range of innovative features, including a high speed, high-resolution Magnetic Resonance Imaging Machine (MRI), as well as a Computed Tomography machine (CT).

This new technology is said to greatly improve diagnostic quality and help establish accurate and timely diagnoses to inform and guide treatment decisions

“As Imaging becomes an ever-increasing essential tool in clinical practice, it is crucial for the prompt and accurate diagnosis of patients,” Mackay Base Hospital CT Team Leader Ryan Hardy said.

“The new generation MRI and CT will greatly improve the accuracy of screening for diseases, improve diagnostic quality and improve patient experiences.”

A Siemens 3T MAGNETOM Vida MRI machine was installed in September which features revolutionary artificial intelligence to accelerate and enhance performance as well as increase scan speed and resolution.

“This unique technology also features a patient entertainment system with multiple streaming services, offering a more comfortable experience for our patients,” Mackay Base Hospital MRI Team Leader Matthew Agioritis said.

A Siemens SOMATOM Force CT scanner was also installed this month which provides precision imaging with features including dual-source technology and high temporal resolution for superior diagnostic accuracy.

“These machines ensure new levels of image quality, improving clinical outcomes and ultimately, precision medicine,” Mr Hardy said.

“This technology gives us enormous advances in medical imaging which will improve the accuracy of screenings for disease and aids clinicians in diagnosing diseases much earlier.

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By Mackay Hospital and Health Service

The team introducing a new MRI and CT scanner – which is said to improve patient outcomes and ensure precise diagnostic services. Photo credit: Mackay Hospital and Health Service

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Our beautiful blue water river is now more accessible than ever with the opening of the Pioneer River Floating Pontoon.

The pontoon can be accessed via a gangway from the Brisbane Street fishing pier, next to the Bluewater Quay.

Mackay Regional Council’s Director Planning, Growth and Sustainability, Aletta Nugent, said the pontoon was an exciting part of council’s Mackay Waterfront Riverside Revitalisation project.

“It’s fantastic to have this project reach fruition, thanks to an amazing joint effort by our council project team and contractor SMC Marine,” Ms Nugent said.

“The pontoon will open the river up to recreational and commercial watercraft users, allowing access to load and unload for a day of recreation,” she said.

The pontoon is designed for boating and non-motorised watercraft access, with commercial use by permit only.

Ms Nugent said while anglers could use the pontoon, watercraft would have priority use at all times.

“The Brisbane Street fishing pier, next to the pontoon, is obviously designed for keen fisher people, with artificial reefs sunk immediately in front of it,” Ms Nugent said.

“If anyone does choose to fish off the pontoon, it’s important that they wind in and clear the way for any approaching boats immediately,” she said.

“Our Mackay City and Waterfront team are working with the community and local businesses to roll out placemaking and activation activities across the city centre and waterfront.”

This project is jointly funded by the Australian Government and Mackay Regional Council.

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Emergency Services have released devastating information in regards to an investigation of the sudden death of a man, said to be in his 60s, on a private property South of Mackay on March 14.

Around 7.40pm on Thursday night, police responded to reports of a quadbike accident after a motorised bike had rolled down an embankment into a creek at a hobby farm in Koumala.

Police authorities said the man, in his 60’s, was pinned by the bike underwater, concluding that he was unable to reach the surface.

Multiple crews were dispatched to the scene, including a helicopter as they assessed the male patient and tried to revive him.

Authorities said the man had critical injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene a short time later.

Police services will prepare a report for the coroner and are treating the investigation as non-suspicious.

Our condolences go out to his family and loved ones.

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A young girl is in critical condition after paramedics rushed in response to reports of a female in her early teens trapped under a trailer over the weekend.

Emergency services arrived at the scene finding the girl pinned under a horse float trailer on a private property in Glenella around 5pm, on Saturday, March 16.

Paramedics attended to the young girl in a critical condition as she sustained significant head injuries and was taken to Mackay Base Hospital with a critical care paramedic.

The girl remains at Mackay Base Hospital and is now in a stable condition.

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The 2024 BMA River 2 Reef Ride jersey competition has unveiled three talented youth artist finalists, marking an exciting milestone in showcasing the region's emerging artistic talent.

Representing Sarina, Moranbah, and Mackay respectively, the three finalists have each captured the essence of the Mackay region in their unique designs, highlighting the beauty of the region and connection to the rivers, reef and community.

Linda Murry, General Manager of BHP Mitsubishi Alliance’s (BMA) Hay Point Coal Terminal, expressed her enthusiasm for the competition, stating, "We are excited to raise the profile of youth artists within our region, giving them the opportunity to have their artwork featured on about 1,000 cycling jerseys in 2024.

The winner will not only have their artwork featured on this year’s BMA River 2 Reef Ride jersey on Sunday 1st September but will also take home $500.

The runner up and 3rd place receive $250 and $100 respectively.

“This has been the first year that we have run this competition. Our high school students are so talented, it’s such a privilege for us to be a part of their journey,” said Event Director Nikki Giles.

Voting closes on Sunday 24th March. The winner will be announced on Wednesday 3rd April. The winning jersey can be purchased as part of registering for this year’s BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival. All profits from the event and jerseys are distributed to RACQ CQ Rescue and Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay.

Event Manager, Selena Corness said, “It’s a great opportunity to get their artwork and name out there as an artist on their portfolio for future references.”

For more information about the Youth Design Challenge, visit https://www.river2reefride.com.au.

The BMA River 2 Reef Ride is an annual community cycling event, established in 2011, that brings people together to raise funds for local not-for-profit organisations. The event offers a diverse selection of ride options to accommodate participants of all skill levels, aiming to promote active, healthy living while supporting vital community causes.

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Photo Supplied

Designs from the three finalists representing Sarina, Moranbah and Mackay.

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