A unique six-month female mentoring program that concluded in Brisbane last week, setting a new group of young Queensland women on the path to a rewarding career in the state’s resources sector.

Twenty Year 12 students from 17 schools across Queensland celebrated the finale of this year’s Girls in Resources Life Skills (GIRLS) Mentoring Program, an annual initiative delivered by the Queensland Resources Council’s Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA) and Women in Mining and Resources Queensland (WIMARQ).

Celebrating its fifth year, the program aims to connect experienced women in resources with senior female students who want to know more about career opportunities in the sector.  

QRC Director of Skills, Education and Diversity, Ms Katrina-Lee Jones said the GIRLS Mentoring Program has made impressive strides each year since it began five years ago.

“This group of female students from QMEA-associated schools have kick-started their way to an exciting career in resources as well as boosted their life skills like networking, communication, and confidence,” she said.

“Over the past six months, they’ve been guided and inspired during regular meetings with their individually-matched, female industry mentors who have imparted invaluable professional and personal advice.

“This mentoring program plays an essential role in the industry’s efforts to attract more young females into the resources and energy, which is steadily increasing its female participation rate with a target of 30 per cent by 2026.

“By working with successful role models from various specialties across the industry, these students have gained first-hand insight into the different exciting and rewarding career opportunities on offer and I am confident they’ll become the Queensland resources sector’s next leaders and innovators.”

BMA Head of Performance & Improvement Lauren Molloy Roberts said BMA is proud to have been involved with the GIRL’s Mentoring Program since its inception.

“It is rewarding to see these passionate and aspiring young women achieve their goals and to help them make informed decisions about their own tertiary education or training pathways,” she said.

“With the number of applications from young women wanting to take part increasing each year, the GIRLS Mentoring Program has become a well-established initiative that will help drive the future of the resources sector.”

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Twenty Year 12 students from 17 schools across Queensland participated in the GIRLS Mentoring Program. Photo supplied: QRC

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Hi Everyone,

Youth crime seems to be rife at the moment, the latest incident involving a 12-year-old boy arrested for arson following a house fire in Jubilee Pocket on Tuesday afternoon.

This is just the latest in a series of crimes reported on over the past few months, several car-break-ins, trespassing, and robberies have also occurred, with many residents suspecting local youth, and uploading security camera footage to social media to prove it.

At the risk of sounding old and possibly out of touch – what is going on with the youth of today?

They have such a great life here in the Whitsundays – the beach is close by, there are skate parks, basketball courts . . . do we need more for them to do?

Statistics show that youth crime has increased drastically since COVID – are youngsters feeling despondent? Bored? Fed up with following the rules?

Or is it that they just don’t care because they don’t get in any real trouble when they get caught?

I was speaking to a business owner from the Burdekin the other day and he said that in his region youngsters are frequently stealing cars and leaving them abandoned.

The police know who the culprits are, let them off with a warning and the youngsters don’t care because their slate gets wiped clean when they turn 18.

It seems there are no real repercussions, and these young offenders feel they are above the law.

In my opinion, if they are old enough to wander the streets by themselves, old enough to think of committing the crime, then they are old enough to be punished by law for their crimes.

But I have to admit . . . if it was my kid out there who had fallen down the wrong path and got himself involved with a serious crime, I might very well feel differently.

Rach

Quote of the Week: “Aging is an extraordinary process whereby you become the person you always should have been” (David Bowie)

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In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, women are not merely breaking barriers; they are architecting a new paradigm of leadership, innovation, and success. Let’s shine a spotlight on the incredible strides women continue to make in the world of business, inspiring a generation and reshaping the narrative.

Historically underrepresented in boardrooms and executive suites, women have fought tenaciously to claim their rightful place in the business world. From tech moguls to sustainability champions, their stories are as diverse as the industries they impact. But the journey is far from over, as challenges persist, often morphing into new forms.

One remarkable aspect of women in business today is their unwavering commitment to collaboration and mentorship. Countless networks, both formal and informal, have emerged as essential platforms for fostering connections and learning opportunities.

Entrepreneurship illustrates another facet of the evolving landscape. The rise of women-led startups showcases an inspiring fusion of innovation and determination. Women entrepreneurs are embracing disruption, leveraging their unique perspectives to identify gaps in the market and conceptualise products and services that resonate with a diverse customer base.

Moreover, women are reshaping the definition of leadership itself. Empathy, emotional intelligence, and inclusivity are becoming central tenets of effective leadership, qualities that women often naturally embody. By championing these traits, women are fostering healthier workplace cultures and driving employee satisfaction, leading to increased productivity and company growth.

However, this journey is not without obstacles. Gender bias, both implicit and explicit, still lingers. Women continue to face challenges related to funding disparities, limited access to executive roles, and balancing the demands of career and family. Addressing these issues requires collaborative efforts from both men and women, and from companies and policymakers alike.

As we celebrate the achievements of women in business, it's important to recognise that these achievements are not solely women's victories but victories for progress, innovation, and diversity. Their stories inspire the next generation of female leaders to dream big, work hard, and persevere in the face of adversity.

Women in business are rewriting the narrative, ushering in an era of inclusivity, innovation, and collaboration. By supporting and celebrating women's accomplishments, we contribute to a brighter future where glass ceilings are shattered, and opportunities are limitless.

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Students from across the region enjoyed powerhouse presentations by four incredibly inspiring guest speakers sharing their career journeys in a variety of STEM fields and the opportunity to engage in virtual reality, robotics and drones.

The Whitsunday STEM Challenge committee joined in National Science Week celebrations partnering with key players in the region to bring the Women in STEM event to life.

Whitsunday Anglican School was one of the schools who made the most of the opportunity to join the event which gave the region's youth the chance to experience a taste of the rapidly changing and developing world of STEM.

A school spokesperson said, “At Whitsunday, we are proud to be leaders in STEAM and are counting down the weeks until our world-class STEAM Centre is unveiled to the school.”

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Whitsunday Anglican School students took part in National Science Week celebrations. Photos supplied

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Jubilee Pocket

A 12-year-old boy has been arrested and charged with one count of arson, following a suspicious fire in an unoccupied house in Jubilee Pocket, on Shute Harbour on Tuesday, August 29.

Police and fire crews were alerted of the blaze at 4pm on Tuesday.

One Ambulance crew also attended the scene, with Queensland Ambulance Service reporting no injuries sustained.

The fire was quickly contained, with the house known to be unoccupied.

Police spoke with a number of juveniles present and charged one 12-year-old boy with one count of arson.

The boy will be dealt with under the provisions of the Youth Justice Act.

Dozens of people took to social media, commenting about the incident on popular site Whitsundays Chat.

“12 years old, great future ahead for this young lad,” said one post.

“Might be the wake-up call he needed,” said another.

“I feel sorry for the parents going through the stress of trying to do their best and now being judged by the community.”

The Australian Bureau of Statistics reports that youth crime has spiked significantly since COVID.

In 2019, there were just 18,353 youth offenders prosecuted, compared to 61,229 in 2022.

In the past year there has been a three per cent rise, but the most significant rise has been since COVID.

Two thirds of offenders are male.

In Queensland, youth detention rates are higher than any other state or territory, according to the Productivity Commission.

More than half of all the offenders convicted are re-sentenced within 12 months of release.

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A suspicious house fire engulfed a Jubilee Pocket property. Photo supplied

Legacy Whitsundays badge stand has been a staple in the local Whitsunday shopping centres for years, raising funds for local Legacy projects and programs.

However, in a turn of events, the Whitsunday Plaza has extended a fee to the group, charging them for their space.

In frustration, one local Legacy member, turned to Facebook, explaining that the Whitsunday Plaza, has previously hosted the Legacy group at no charge, allowing the group to use their site to sell Legacy badges and other memorabilia for the charity.

In 2022, the group were able to sell their badges with no fee, however this year, the centre’s new owners have moved to charge the group $600.

“This means more than half the money I would make would go to them,” explained the Facebook post.

“It is true some larger city Legacies have some paid staff, but not Mackay Legacy Inc.

“All monies raised in the Mackay and Proserpine Districts is spent in these areas.”

Fortunately, a helpful reprieve came in the form of another local, Jeff Aquilina, owner of at Hotel Group, who offered to front the fee, so that Legacy can continue with their plans.

Jeff came across the Facebook post and sympathised with the cause.

“I am not looking for too much fuss,” said Jeff.

“When I heard Legacy had to pay for the space, I felt this was very unfair given the marvellous work they do.”

Legacy Australia is an Australian not-for-profit organisation who supports families of ex-servicepeople who have lost their life or health in conflicts.

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Excited dogs and their owners have been heading down to the Cannonvale dog park to sample the newly installed dog agility equipment that will now be a permanent fixture for all the community to enjoy.

A tribute to the beautiful spirit of Stirling Edwards-Bland, the young man who tragically passed away in a road accident last year, the equipment has been purchased with money given to his family in the immediate aftermath.

His mum, Tracy Edwards-Bland, said that they wanted to use the money to give back to the community and her son’s passion for animals and love for his own dog inspired them to create this new facility.

“It would have meant a lot to him,” said Tracy.

“He was here every day with his dog and he would sit on the floor and play with all the dogs, they all knew him, he’d probably be climbing through the tunnel with them now if he was here.”

A bitter-sweet day for the family, the new equipment will bring delight to lots of people, but in many ways will always be a reminder that their son is no longer with them.

Tracy said she comes to the park regularly and brings Stirling’s Bordoodle, Lloyd, and their new Groodle, Maggie with her.

“We’d like to say thank you very much to everyone who contributed, this is all down to you,” she said.

The fundraiser was initiated by local resident Kellie Chart and raised just over $14,000, a figure which happened to be almost exactly what the equipment cost.

Supplied by Paws4Play, the equipment includes a tunnel, three jumps, weave poles, and a bridge.

The installation also includes a dog-friendly water fountain with a special bowl.

Tracy said they will soon install a plaque with Stirling’s name and a QR code which people can scan to see a website full of photos and information about Stirling.

A passionate animal-lover who had aspirations of becoming a vet, the new agility equipment is a fitting way to remember this beautiful soul who was taken too soon.

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Tracy Edwards-Bland with her two dogs, Maggie and Lloyd. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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Bowen was host to the third Mackay Isaac Whitsunday Regional Community Forum of 2023 earlier this week and attendees came together to discuss pressing issues of the region.

In particular housing availability, housing affordability, sustainable and resilient infrastructure, and workforce attraction and retention were hot topics of conversation.

There was also a presentation about the Queensland Procurement Strategy, which outlined that Queensland based business will be prioritised with an estimated $180 billion in government procurement, from 2023 until the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

“The forums provide an opportunity to represent the voices of our communities to government, and in return it enables our communities to contribute to effective input ensuring regional and rural Queensland is included in government’s priorities, planning, and decision making,” said Carl Walker, a Bowen Farmer.

Mayor Julie Hall said she was honoured to be a guest at the forum.

“As part of the forum I was invited to do a presentation showcasing the diversity of the Bowen region and address regional challenges and opportunities,” Mayor Hall said.

“I also participated in a panel discussion with local Bowen Business representatives and stakeholders to showcase how regional areas can make the most of economic growth and infrastructure opportunities to ensure regional communities can continue to thrive,” she said.

“The Bowen Marina and foreshore and the State Development area were discussed as two of our priorities for unlocking Bowen’s liveability and regional potential and of course housing and accommodation were hot topics.”

A fourth Mackay Isaac Whitsunday Regional Community Forum is scheduled for 2024.

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Forum participants attending the Coral Coast Barramundi Farm. Photo supplied

This past Wednesday was National Meals on Wheels Day, celebrating the service’s dedication and commitment to small communities across Australia.

The Proserpine Meals on Wheels branch has been servicing Proserpine, Cannonvale, Airlie Beach, Jubilee Point, Midge Point, and Cape Gloucester since 1974, handmaking and delivering nutritious meals to members of the community.

Maxine and Neil McLoed are a local Proserpine couple who regularly use the service, with Maxine previously volunteering for over four years before her health took a turn and she became a recipient instead.

The couple say they love the service, the cherry on top is the dedicated and friendly delivery volunteers who make sure to have a chat with them each time they visit.

“The volunteers are lovely, and I even remember my clients from when I volunteered,” explained Maxine.

Lyn Forden has been volunteering with Proserpine Meals on Wheels for six years now, and loves each and every time she sees one of the clients.

“It only takes two hours out of your day to make someone happy, for a visit and a chat,” she said.

Proserpine Meals on Wheels is always welcoming new volunteers, in all aspects of the service, including drivers, cooks, and helpers.

To enquire about volunteering, contact, Helen Maynard-Turner, the local Coordinator, on prosmow@gmail.com or ring 07 4945 1733.

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Lyn Forden, Meals on Wheels Proserpine volunteer, with Neil and Maxine McLoed, celebrating National Meals on Wheels Day. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge

This Child Protection Week

Get your old runners on and a white top, it’s time for the Whitsunday Counselling and Support Inc Colour Run Fun!

Encompassing a jumping castle, face painting, sausage sizzle, and so much more, this free event is happening next weekend.

“We’ve designed the event to have gentle and fun educational activities for everyone,” explained Alex Sambrooks, the Therapeutic Case Manager with Whitsunday Counselling and Support.

Coinciding with National Child Protection Week, Whitsunday Counselling and Support host the Colour Fun Run for the entire community promoting the moto, ‘Child Protection is Everyone’s Business’.

The Colour Fun Run is sponsored by a range of local businesses including Coral Sea Marine, Red Cat Adventures, Ocean Rafting, Cruise Whitsundays, Paddy Shenanigans, Whitsunday Foodservice, and Sundowner.

The Colour Fun Run is set to be the best one yet, so head to the Coral See Marina for a morning of fun next Saturday

WHAT: Colour Fun Run

WHERE: Coral Sea Marina Grassed Gardens

WHEN: Saturday September 9, 9am to 12pm

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The weather is getting warmer, which means it’s time to get outside and bask in the beautiful north Queensland spring. With 31 beautiful beaches surrounding Mackay so no matter what side of town you’re on, you’re never too far from a beach.

Be wary when swimming, though, as stinger season approaches, generally running during the warmer months from October to May. Make sure to wear a stinger suit when swimming to be completely safe.

Blacks Beach

Blacks Beach is a serene coastal gem known for its stunning natural beauty. With its golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and surrounding lush vegetation, it offers a peaceful escape for beachgoers and nature enthusiasts alike. The beach's tranquil ambiance and scenic charm make it a hidden paradise worth exploring.

Bucasia Beach

Around 20 minutes north of the CBD, Bucasia Beach is one of the longest and most picturesque beaches in the region. The beach is popular for walking, swimming and fishing. The soft, white sand feels amazing underfoot so make sure to kick off your shoes and go for a wander.

Lamberts Beach

Lamberts Beach, located at Slade Point, is a seasonally patrolled beach popular among surfers when the swell is right. It’s a great spot for swimming, exploring and relaxing in the sun. To the south of the beach is Slade Point Reserve where a network of sandy bush walks among the dunes are waiting to be discovered.

The lookout above is the perfect spot to take in the view over the beach and the coastal waters of the Great Barrier Reef, and you’re likely to spot whales migrating past during this time of year. To the left of the lookout, you’ll find a rock pool. Locally known as the 'wishing well', the rock pool is a great spot for photos, and you might spot a critter or two.

Eimeo Beach

A true tropical paradise, Eimeo is a favourite among locals. Driving under the canopy of heritage-listed mango trees at Mango Avenue foreshadows something special. Volunteer lifeguards seasonally patrol this sheltered bay of pure blue water and powder-soft sand, ensuring a safe and relaxing time on the beach.

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2023 Mayor’s Ball Reaches New Heights

In a fantastic effort, the 2023 Mayor’s Annual Charity Ball has raised more than $105,000, this being the highest amount ever raised since the first Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor’s Ball in 2015.

RACQ CQ Rescue and Whitsunday Housing Company were the two nominated charities, each receiving $52,914.29 at a special presentation last week.

Mayor Julie Hall said she’s elated to have raised such a huge amount and the generosity from sponsors and the community is nothing less than remarkable.

“The decision to support these charities was simple, because ultimately, Council, RACQ CQ Rescue and Whitsunday Housing Company Limited all want the same thing. That is, to serve the needs of our communities,” Mayor Hall said.

“As a Council, we are focused on doing the best by everyone living, working or visiting the Whitsundays which includes keeping everyone safe.”

RACQ CQ Rescue CEO Tim Healee said the community was indebted to Whitsunday Regional Council for their support from the 2023 Whitsunday Mayor’s Ball which helped ensure the service was available to anyone, anywhere, anytime across Central Queensland.

“We are incredibly fortunate to have such vital support from such a high-profile partner which ensures we can have a world-class aeromedical helicopter service on our doorstep and available 24/7, 365 days a year to residents, workers and visitors across Central Queensland,” Mr Healee said.

“RACQ CQ Rescue is a vital part of emergency support for all in this region and the Whitsunday region is one of our most frequented destinations. It’s reassuring to know Whitsunday Regional Council really appreciates the value of supporting our helicopter and that with their commitment we can continue to provide our vital, lifesaving service to anyone in a time of crisis,” he said.

Whitsunday Housing Company CEO Joanne Moynihan said the generosity of everyone involved will help women in the community that have been impacted by all types of personal and financial challenges.

“Homelessness does not discriminate, and it can happen to literally anyone,” Ms Moynihan said.

“I am aware you have a lot of choices when it comes to donating, and I am so grateful that you chose to contribute to our cause. To all that attended the Mayor’s Charity Ball, it’s the people in the community like you that see the purpose of our cause and we appreciate you for doing that,” she said.

“This will ensure that we get closer to our goal to complete the work on our first Tiny Homes project.”

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Mayor Julie Hall with RACQ CQ Rescue Sponsorship Manager Tegan Philpott and Whitsunday Housing Company CEO Joanne Moynihan, and Sandy Clark, Fundraising Coordinator of Tiny Homes Project, accepting the massive donations. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge

Unprovoked Assault

On August 27, police arrested a 50-year-old Cannon Valley man for assault occasioning bodily harm that they allege occurred in Airlie Beach. It is alleged he assaulted a 50-year-old man in an unprovoked assault. He will appear in Proserpine Court at a later date.

Wilful Damage

On August 22, a 48-year-old Cairns man was arrested and charged following an incident that occurred in Jubilee Pocket. Police have charged the man with wilful damage to an AirBNB, three drug offences, and obstructing police. He will face Proserpine Court at a later date.

On August 28, a 24-year-old Cannonvale man was arrested and charged with a count of wilful damage. Police allege the man damaged the phone of a member of the public while in the Safe Night Precinct.

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Whitsunday Regional Council have decided to move to monthly Ordinary Council Meetings, rather than their bi-monthly meetings, for a more streamlined focus on strategy.

The monthly meetings begin in September, with the meeting scheduled for Wednesday September 27.

“The majority of Councils in Queensland have already moved to monthly meetings so this is a positive change that will enable more effective decision-making for councillors and better efficiency of time management for senior council staff,” explained Mayor Julie Hall.

“Councillors will still meet every Wednesday, whether it be for the ordinary council meeting, a strategic briefing day or our community catch-ups.

“The new monthly format will allow council to make the decisions it needs to in a timely manner and will allow Councillors more time to focus on the strategic conversation and direction of Council.”

Mayor Hall said Council can also call special meetings in addition to the once-a-month cycle if needed for urgent matters.

“My Council is committed to working smarter, faster and better for the community with a more forward looking and strategic focus which will assist in preparing the region for the future,” she explained.

CEO Warren Bunker said he believed the meeting changes, developed in consultation with the elected members and senior staff were a step forward for Council.

“The move to monthly meetings is in line with Council’s focus on becoming more agile and efficient to deliver better outcomes for our community.”

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More than 80 students from four different schools participated in the Regional Finals of the Tournament of the Minds competition last Sunday.

Hosted by St Catherine’s Catholic College and held at the Secondary Campus’ Multi-Purpose Hall, the event saw 14 teams take part in the state-wide competition.

Topics included The Arts, STEM, Language Literature, and Social Sciences with each team allocated 10 minutes to present to the judges and perform a spontaneous challenge on the day.

Winners included: STEM - Secondary - Bowen State High School -Team 1 - The Tweety Birds

The Arts - Secondary - St Catherine's College Team 1- Circles in Circles

Language Literature - Secondary - St Catherine's College Team 4- Just Choose Sophie

STEM- Primary - St Mary's Primary School - Team 2 - Mission Possible

Language Literature - Primary - St Mary's Primary School - Team 3-Famous Five

The Arts - Primary - St Mary's Primary School - Team 6 -Kaddies

Social Sciences - Primary - St Mary's Primary School - Team 5- Old and New

All winning teams will attend the State Finals at St Cath’s on September 10, where presentations will be filmed and sent through to the Gold Coast for judging against the other state winners.

The College would like to thank teachers and organisers for their dedication with students in the lead up to and on the day of the event.

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Students of St Cath’s tested their talents at Tournament of the Minds last weekend. Photos supplied

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