TO VOTE FOR YOUR FAVOURITE, CLICK HERE

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Winner will be chosen and announced on 1st of May

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Last week, Laura Knipe Marketing Manager, Tourism Whitsundays attended Tourism and Events Queensland’s, ‘Queensland is Calling’ Greater China Roadshow in Shanghai and Guangzhou.

She was joined by Hamilton Island and 22 other outstanding Queensland operators.

The event consisted of 70 meetings with wholesalers and product managers from China, Taiwan and Hong Kong and training sessions with over 170 travel agents.

She also attended four networking events with wholesalers, key Chinese media personnel and airline representatives. 
  
Last year, 62,000 Chinese travellers came to the beautiful state of Queensland, and growth is predicted to accelerate with Chinese visitation expected to deliver $2.9 billion to the Queensland economy by 2032.

The roadshow was a very important part of ensuring The Whitsundays’ involvement in this economic growth.

While many of the delegates were familiar with The Whitsundays, many were not aware of the great diversity of accommodation and experience offerings available, whether for groups or individual travellers. 
  
While China is far from being The Whitsundays’ largest international market, the market’s significant travel intent around the Chinese New Year period in February is a welcome avenue for filling a quiet period in the region.

We look forward to welcoming more travellers during this period, and all year round. 
 

Tourism Whitsundays Marketing Manager, Laura Knipe with the Hamilton Island team, Joyce Shen and Daizaburo Hayashia. Photo supplied The ‘Queensland is Calling’ Greater China Roadshow in Shanghai and Guangzhou. Photo supplied

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Originally from South Africa, Cobus Klopper enjoyed an illustrious career working alongside some of the world’s most renowned chefs before deciding to bring his extensive skills and experience to the helm of Coral Sea Resort’s kitchen.

The first of his family to venture overseas, Cobus initially moved to New Zealand when he was 30 and spent 20 years working at some of the most prestigious restaurants in the country, before moving to Australia two years ago.

In 2005 Cobus became the Head Chef at Peter Gordon’s restaurant in the SkyCity Grand Hotel, he then joined forces with Michelin starred chef, Josh Emett, as Group Executive Chef across a range of restaurants.

During this time, he had the privilege of working with some of the world’s best chefs, including Guy Grossi and Frank Camora, even hosting a three-course dinner for 1000 people with Gordon Ramsay and his team in London.

From authentic Italian to steak houses and Japanese restaurants, Cobus is highly skilled at working with a range of cuisines, a talent he is now bringing to the menu at Coral Sea Resort.

Having started his new role just a few weeks ago, Cobus is planning some exciting additions to the menu, infusing much of the fresh local produce we have here in the region.

“I am busy developing a menu that stars all the wonderful seafood we have here in Airlie,” he shared.

“I’m thinking of introducing dishes such as steamed Coral Trout with shiitake, leeks, edamame, snow peas and tom yum broth. Fresh, fragrant, light and delicious!”

Cobus moved to the region with his lovely wife Mira, and the couple are enjoying the sea-change, especially now they’ve moved from Brisbane to the Whitsundays.

Their two adult children, Kiara who is studying Law and Finance, and their son, Wesley, who has a business degree but works as a software engineer, remain in New Zealand, but hope to visit often.

In his own time, Cobus likes to work with Bonsai trees and enjoys gardening, fishing, and snorkelling. He also likes cooking at home, especially on charcoal and wood.

What’s Your Taste?

Favourite food? Anything with chili or cooked on charcoal
Favourite food to make for someone else? Durban-style curry

Last thing you ate out? Yum cha in Auckland with two ex-colleagues

Most extraordinary food item you’ve ever eaten? There are too many. Most recently, probably mangosteen – I had it for the first time in Bali last year. It was amazing but couldn’t afford it at $79 per kg when I came back to Australia.

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Cobus Klopper, Head Chef at Coral Sea Resort. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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Authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of Airlie Beach just took a light and refreshing turn thanks to the newly released lunch time menu at La Tabella.

Renowned for its house-made pasta, rich and vibrant flavours, quality local produce and perfectly paired wines, La Tabella is a divine destination for dinner and a truly magical location for a leisurely lunch.

The new menu has been specifically curated to suit lighter meal options and includes classic Italian and Greek salads, a succulent Fillet Steak Ciabatta, a Foccacia Panino and a Veal Scallopini.

This is complemented with a full list of freshly made pasta dishes. Try the creamy basil pesto, cherry tomato, toasted pine nuts and parmesan pasta, the Gnocchi Gorgonzola or perhaps the Mushroom Truffle Linguini.

For special occasions, or for moments of pure indulgence, order the exquisite Seafood Platter for Two and watch the afternoon glide by with mouthfuls of delicious local seafood, brought alive in the region it was caught.

For the more casual affair, share a pizza! The La Tabella pizza menu has something for everyone, from the classic Carne right through to the Prawn and Salami.

Whether you are a group of friends or a family, pizza is a quick and easy lunch time solution and at La Tabella you know it will be quality, authentic Italian style, easy and at your fingertips.

Known for its casual, yet charming atmosphere, La Tabella is perfect for any guest, whether you be a couple looking for an intimate meal, a group of friends enjoying a social afternoon or a family eager to sit, relax and soak up the atmosphere.

Located just across the road from the beach, on the Esplanade and in the heart of the town, La Tabella offers many seating options, from their al fresco on-street dining, an inside cool retreat restaurant and a secluded air-conditioned wine cellar dining experience.

Make sure you come and try their new lunch menu today!

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Check out the delicious new lunch time menu at La Tabella. Photos supplied

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A Mackay-based author has brought her worlds of magic and fantasy to the Whitsundays with her new book, Mother Trucking Monsters.
A. L. Tippett visited the region over the Easter weekend to promote the new urban fantasy novel which is partly based in Bowen and features the Big Mango.
The book follows a solo mum in a magical world that isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.
The central character wants what every single mum wants: to provide a happy home for her daughter and, if possible, avoid having her heart broken ever again.
Unfortunately, the bills keep piling up, and financially, she’s at breaking point.
Just when she thinks things can’t get any worse, a random bird starts talking in her mind, before she falls victim to a griffin attack.
Luckily, an aloof and attractive sphinx swoops in and saves the day - this time - but she never wants to feel that helpless ever again.
It turns out that the sphinx in question is an insurance assessor, apparently earning a truckload of money and looking for an assistant.
Of course, being an assessor in Australia would be a huge challenge.
The spiders and snakes already want to kill her, throw in dragons and it'll be a miracle if she survives her first case.
“This book is fresh, funny, cozy and brilliant,” said one review from Heather G Harris, the bestselling author of the Other Realm series.
Born in New Zealand and now based in Mackay, A. L. Tippett started writing when she fell pregnant with her first child.
She has now released four adult urban fantasy novels, and one children's picture book (under a separate pen name) over four years.
Filled with heart, mystery, action and humour, Mother Trucking Monsters is available now on Amazon.

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Fresh from performing with the international vocal supergroup The Ten Tenors, JD Smith is coming to the region later this month, bringing with him some classic renditions of the most iconic Australian songs.

Taking you on a journey through the pop, rock and country classics that have been the soundtrack to your life, JD will have you singing, dancing and cheering as you remember how much you love these iconic songs from Australia’s most iconic male performers!

From the unofficial national anthems of John Farnham's You’re The Voice, Daryl Braithwaite’s The Horses & Peter Allen’s I Still Call Australia Home; Supergroup classics by ACDC, INXS, Cold Chisel, Little River Band & The Bee Gees; the Poptastic stylings of John Paul Young, Rick Springfield & Leo Sayer through to iconic ballads from Savage Garden, Rick Price & Keith Urban - you will be stunned by the powerhouse vocal versatility and charm that JD Smith brings to these songs on stage.

WHAT: Morning Melodies – The Boys From Oz
WHEN: Friday 26th April
WHERE: The Proserpine Entertainment Centre
TICKETS: proserpineentertainmentcentre.com.au

JD Smith performs at Morning Melodies

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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.

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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

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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+

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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

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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. 

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Contributed with thanks to Kate Cross.
 

Pictured: Peter and Donna Henderson

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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.

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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!”
  

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