At the height of Cyclone Kirrily, with predictions stating it may indeed make landfall near the Whitsundays, Jen Frisby-Young arrived at the Cannonvale SES Site ready to fill and collect some sandbags for her family home.

With her husband away at sea for work, Jen headed to the sandbag location with two of her three young children. Once she figured out how the situation worked, she began filling her first sandbag and moved it to her car, when she experienced a touch of pain.

“I had just given birth two weeks earlier, and I thought I would be okay, but I felt that pain, and that was something I didn’t anticipate,” Jen explained.

Not one to reach out for help, but rather the person who jumps up to help everyone else, Jen was surprised when two other locals filling up sandbags interrupted her and offered their assistance.

“I told them I had just given birth and immediately they were like ‘Don’t you move, do not pick up anything’,” Jen explained.

“I was so overwhelmed, and I just started crying. I am usually the one to help, and to have these people recognise that I needed some help was just amazing.”

Turning to facebook afterwards, Jen shared her thanks and was pleasantly surprised by other locals sharing similar stories of good Samaritans lending a hand.

“A few of the stories featured the very same couple too, who were just helping anyone they could.

“It really is a testament to our community, of the great people we have in our community that just want to help where they can.”

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Inspiring members of the Whitsunday community have been honoured at the 2024 Australia Day Awards held at the Flagstaff Function Centre in Bowen on Saturday.

The touching ceremony, which acknowledged many local individuals, was postponed from January 26 and re-scheduled due to Cyclone Kirrily.

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Citizen of the Year - Christine Hinschen

Christine continues to be a beacon of the community, having managed and owned the Anglican Opportunity Shop, as well as being integral to leading local disaster efforts and helping those abroad.

Christine has aided citizens in Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands, as well as local organisations like Lifeline Gold Coast and the Women’s Refuge Centre which support financially and materially impacted individuals. Christine’s impact is immeasurable, and she is a true inspiration to the Whitsunday community.  

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Young Citizen of the Year – Sam Rogers

Sam’s continuous impact and influence in the Whitsundays knows no bounds. Having represented the region in the Queensland Youth Parliament, Sam is also exceeding in a range of other fields. He is an international STEM leader and a National Science and Engineering award winner. Sam’s leadership within Proserpine State High School was humble yet far-reaching, his influence positive and genuine, marking him a strong inspiration for Youth Citizen of the Year.

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Mayoral Award – Danzel Lewis

A strong advocate for First Nations peoples and a confident leader at Bowen State High School, Danzel is an inspiring influence in the region. Highlighting the importance of mental health and the impacts of bullying and domestic violence during his leadership addresses, Denzel created a culture of positivity and kindness within the school. Danzel's involvement in both school and community activities is extensive, earning him the school community service award for five consecutive years. He also became the first Indigenous student to complete a certificate III in Business with The Hillery Group.

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Volunteer of the Year – Sheryl Gordon

Serving as Vice President of the Collinsville QCWA, Sheryl has shown dedicated, unwavering support for her community, going above and beyond with everything she does. Sheryl is a common face at community events, generously donating her time and culinary skills to various not-for-profit organisations and delighting all with her delicious, sweet treat creations. As busy lady, Sheryl works full-time maintaining a local business and overseeing her family’s cattle farm, but she still manages to find time for community involvement and is always a pillar of support for others.

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Community Event of the Year Award – Baby Welcoming Ceremony – Bowen Lions Ladies

Celebrating one of the most momentous occasions, the birth of a new child, the Bowen Lions Ladies have created a celebration to welcome local babies to the community.

For over two decades, the Baby Welcoming Ceremony has seen over 500 Bowen babies presented by their parents and the annual event has become a cherished tradition for families in the community.  The Baby Welcoming Ceremony is a testament to the dedication and generosity of the Bowen Lions Ladies, creating a momentous celebration for generations to come.

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Senior Sportsperson Award – Aimee Sulzberger

A regular on the sports track, Aimee’s athletic journey is astounding and inspirational. Having dominated competitions from the Townsville marathon to the Whitsunday Trail Festival, Aimee has been awarded gold for the North QLD Cross Country. What makes Aimee's accomplishments even more astounding is that she is a mother of three, pushing a pram with two inside and one on the front wheel. Aimee Sulzberger is undeniably a force to be reckoned with, exemplifying resilience, dedication, and a passion for excellence in sports.

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Mayor Julie Hall, Citizen of the Year Christine Hinschen and Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox. Photo credit: R Jean Photography

Young Citizen of the Year, Sam Rogers.

Sheryl Gordon awarded Volunteer of the Year

Bowen Lions Ladies awarded Community Event of the Year, for the Bowen Baby Welcoming Ceremony

Aimee Sulzberger awarded Senior Sportsperson Award

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Junior Sportsperson Award – Lillian Kelly

Known for her work ethic, sporting prowess and academic excellence, Lillian is a powerhouse on the court, having travelled internationally to pursue her volleyball career. She excels with positive sportsmanship and is a dedicated player. This Proserpine State High School student was selected for the 2023 Australian Club U16 national volleyball team which is a testament to her dedication and skill. Lillian not only excels in sports but also maintains high standards academically, embodying excellence both on and off the field.

Environmental Achievement Award – Whitsunday Conservation Council

Providing invaluable conservation advocation and commitment to preserving the natural flora and fauna of the Whitsundays, the Whitsunday Conservation Council has been acknowledged for their efforts since starting the group in 2020. Operated mainly by volunteers, the Whitsunday Conservation Council boasts a supporter base of over 1500 individuals. Their focus is on education, information, and community involvement, this is evidenced through initiatives like free guided nature walks, monthly green drinks with guest speakers, educational market and school stalls.

Arts & Cultural Award – Gleezus: Teen Rock Band

The gale force winds of teen rockers, Gleezus, has taken the region by storm this year.

A sought-after act for every event, this band of four Bowen State High School students has continued to excel and promote themselves and their music. Having won accolades at events such as Foothills Youth Music Competition at the Townsville Folk Festival, and Young Whitsundays Got Talent, Gleezus has excelled and impressed all in their audience, and become a leading light for arts and culture in the region.

Collinsville Citizen of the Year - Kimberley Oliver

A single mother, Kimberley is always one to put her hand up to help. Becoming a Collinsville Lion five years ago, Kimmy became President after one year, making her one of the youngest presidents in Queensland. An active role in Collinsville, Kimmy and the Lions are always selling raffle tickets and seen in public, assisting at events and community organisations.

Collinsville Young Citizen of the Year - Sarah Wilson

An avid dancer and strong student, Sarah has continued to play an influential role in Collinsville, being Vice-President of Collinsville State High School’s Student Council in 2023 and completing a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care during her final two schooling years. Sarah impresses with her sense of responsibility and drive to succeed. This is particularly seen in the dedication and commitment she demonstrates in supporting young people in the community.

Other Collinsville Winners

Young Sports Award - Cooper Groocock

Senior Sports Award - Almeroe de Nysschen.

Environmental Achievement Award - Collinsville Youth Coaltion - National Tree Day

Collinsville/Scottville Volunteer of the Year Award - Raymond Wallace

Community Event of the Year - QCWA Collinsville Branch – “Do it for Dolly” Day

Arts & Cultural Event of the Year - Scottville State School – “NAIDOC week” Event

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Lillian Kelly awarded Junior Sportsperson Award

Whitsunday Conservation Council awarded Environmental Achievement Award

Gleezus awarded Arts & Culture Award. Photos: R Jean Photography

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The beloved Pink Stumps ladies’ day, hosted by Bowen Cricket, is back for 2024 and organisers are excited to announce Australian sporting legend, Glenn McGrath of the McGrath Foundation, will be attending the event.

Pink Stumps Day is held annually in multiple venues right across the country, and Glenn McGrath attends one each year, with the popular Bowen fundraiser thrilled to welcome him to the region, perfectly timed for their 10th anniversary celebrations.

The McGrath Foundation is dedicated to supporting thousands of McGrath Breast Care Nurse, which in-turn provide vital care to people with breast cancer, and their families.

Bowen Cricket has been hosting these fabulous fundraisers for a decade and is looking forward to once again welcoming hundreds of ladies for a lively and inspiring event which features guest speakers, charity prizes and lots of fun.

“It started with a gathering of wives and moms of the cricket association,” explained Club President, Seth Mcintosh.

“After a few years, it just grew and grew, until we needed to make it a marquee event, and now it’s so much bigger than that.

“And now we have the pleasure of welcoming Glenn McGrath to our day, this year.”

Also on the schedule for the event is a series of educational talks by breast cancer survivors, doctors and other experts, with the all-female guests given demonstrations on how to check themselves for breast cancer, and other key information and advice concerning breast cancer.

“We will also have Gleezus and other live musicians performing on the day, with a bar open all day, and table platters to snack on,” explained Seth.

“And all donations and money raised will go towards the McGrath Foundation.”

Having raised close to $9,000 in 2023, the Bowen Cricket team are keen to top that number this year.

“We welcomed close to 400 ladies to our 2023 event, and we wish to see so many more come, enjoy a good day with good company, good music, and learn more about breast cancer and ways to detect it and be educated.”

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WHAT: Pink Stumps Ladies Day with Bowen Cricket
WHERE: Col Leather Sporting Complex, 67 Woodlands Road, Bowen
WHEN: Saturday, February 17, from 12pm to 7pm
TICKETS: Bank Transfer BSB: 654000 / ACC: 64166326. Make sure to print full name in the payment remittance

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Cricket legend Glenn McGrath is coming to Bowen Pink Stumps Ladies Day this year. Photo supplied

Bowen Pink Stumps Ladies Day is always a popular event and 2024 is the 10th anniversary celebrations. Photo supplied

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Private sailing charter company, Waltzing Matilda, and its skipper has been charged $15,000 following a three-day charter which saw the classic sailing yacht without adequate supervision, drifting away with passengers onboard in November 2022.

The charter boat had been hired for a 21st birthday celebration which ended in disaster when the skipper disembarked the vessel to venture to Hill Inlet, leaving some of its 13 passengers alone on the vessel.

The court found the vessel had been improperly secured, and drifted away, while the skipper, from his position on land, yelled instructions to the passengers on how to return the boat to shore.

Once on board again, the skipper turned the boat to Whitehaven Beach, however, it became grounded on some rocks.

The passengers escaped to a nearby tender, and the court heard how the skipper told them he did not want to call the Volunteer Marine Rescue for assistance.

The Australia Maritime Safety Authority stated that, "The skipper also failed to provide the required standard of lifejackets for the passengers, failed to properly secure the tender to the main vessel to ensure it would not drift away and allowed multiple safety violations to occur during the grounding.”

"The magistrate noted in court that the grounding would have been terrifying for the passengers on board," AMSA said.

The skipper was also operating the vessel without proper certifications, “assuming the role of master without the proper qualifications and reckless operation of the vessel which, amongst a litany of other serious safety issues, led to the vessel grounding near Hook Passage in the Whitsundays,” according to AMSA.

The skipper was charged with three offences under the Marine Safety (Domestic Commercial Vessel) National Law Act 2012, and was also charged for failure to pay the fines related to the incident.

The skipper also failed to appear at the Proserpine Magistrates Court for the hearing.

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Waltzing Matilda Charter skipper fined $15,000. Photo supplied

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The Whitsundays Writers Festival is gearing for a grand comeback, with a schedule jampacked full of immersive celebrations of all things literary.

On the cards is esteemed 2023 Miles Franklin Literary Award winner, Shankari Chandran, winner of Australia’s premier literary prize for her debut novel, ‘Chai Time at Cinnamon Gardens’.

Alongside Shankari are several other highly regarded, award-winning Australian authors, who are excited to be in sunny Whitsundays for a weekend of literary prowess.

Karen Jacobsen, the Festival President, expressed her excitement, stating, “It's not often we have the opportunity to meet renowned national and international writers. This will be a landmark event for the Whitsundays and a golden opportunity for regional Queensland to add a substantial literary gem to its arts calendar.”

Alongside the schedule of workshops, talks, and luncheons, the weekend will also include the prestigious Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards. The Heart Awards provide well-deserved recognition and financial rewards to talented writers for best unpublished manuscript, short story, poetry, and book design. Submissions for the Heart Awards open February 14.

“This event will bring together creative minds in the picturesque setting of the Whitsundays. What better place to immerse yourself in the brilliance of Australian literature?” remarked Karen.

“I strongly advise securing your place at the festival and booking accommodation early to fully enjoy the wonders of the Whitsundays while indulging in the myriad of events the festival has to offer.”  

Save The Date!

WHAT: Whitsunday Writers Festival
WHEN: Friday, September 6 to Sunday September 8

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Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards

Submissions Open February 14

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Shankari Chandran confirmed to star in September’s Whitsundays Writers Festival. Photo supplied

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Get ready to fundraise for the Royal Flying Doctor Service and celebrate our fantastic sugar industry as the whole community gets together to pay homage to our quintessential local culture.

Hosted by Cut Out Party, the annual Sugar Bush Shindig is set to ignite the region, celebrating the conclusion of the sugar season, and saying cheers to the cane farmers and associated industries for a job well done.

With an exciting charity auction scheduled, the evening is going to be a lot of fun and will also offer time to reflect on the previous year and the progression of the sugar industry as a whole.

Announced prizes on the auction list include a massive prize pact from Canegrowers Proserpine, a 2-night stay at The Boathouse Apartments, and 2 Family Passes for Whitsunday Crocodile Safari.

And don’t miss your chance to be take on the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) Simulator, which will excite and showcase how RFDS team work, to provide essential medical treatment and intervention to our wider Whitsunday community.

Purchase your tickets now for the event for the summer, with all tickets including dinner and drinks, with an auction, lucky door prize, music and entertainment for the kids as added bonus.

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WHAT: Sugar Bush Shindig
WHERE: Proserpine Showgrounds
WHEN: Saturday, March 9, from 5.30pm
TICKETS: $80 available through whitsundaytickets.com.au

The Cut Out Party team. Photo supplied

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This March, Collinsville is turning pink, to celebrate International Women’s Day and help fundraise for the Mater Foundation, to fight breast cancer.

Part of the fundraising will include the annual fun run which will be held on Sunday, March 10.

This event has become a well-supported community tradition and aligns nicely with the Sea of Pink events which are set to take place across Australia over the same weekend.

With the 2023 Collinsville event raising over $9,200, the local Sea of Pink team were named Mater Foundation Community Heroes last year which was a huge honour for the region.

They are now hoping to repeat the same and ideally smash last years’ target.

For organiser Alice Randell, the event has been made more personal by the friends and family members diagnosed with breast cancer in the past year.  

“Organising this event has started conversations about breast cancer at work and at home,” Alice said.

“When women share their experiences, it empowers others to be proactive about their health.”

“As you get older, you begin to meet more and more people affected by breast cancer, and the importance of this sort of event grows today.”

Supported by Collinsville local businesses, the team will be hosted by the Collinsville Golf Club, with Collinsville QCWA branch catering a well-deserved breakfast, and the local butcher, Stanley Street Butchers, donating a dollar from every sale in February and March.

“It’s fantastic to see so much support from local businesses and community groups,” Alice said.

“With this event, it’s great as community groups get behind us, and do their own thing. The Collinsville Youth Coalition are having a Pink Pancake day, and we know more will get on board too.

“This community is so proactive to get behind us and this cause.”

At the time of writing this, the Collinsville team has already over 50 registered team members, and over $4,500 raised for the cause.

“If you’re interested in joining us and showing your support for women with breast cancer, please register for the event.

“With the Country Women’s Association putting on breakfast, and the walk only five kilometres, it’s such an easy event to get behind. We’re not all athletes and we try and make it a good atmosphere for a Sunday morning.”

To join the Collinsville Sea of Pink team or to show support, scan the QR code.

WHAT: Collinsville’s Sea of Pink
WHERE: Collinsville
WHEN: Sunday, March 10

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Collinsville Sea of Pink were named Mater Foundation Community Heroes last year

Alice Randall donning the pink for breast cancer. Photo supplied

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E-Scooter Accident

A female e-scooter rider has been transported to Proserpine Hospital, following a collision between the e-scooter and a vehicle at 8am on Tuesday, February 6.

Occurring at the intersection of Shingley Drive and Shute Harbour Road, the female patient was transported to Proserpine Hospital in a stable condition, with head and neck injuries.

Senior Sergeant Shane Edwards, the Officer in Charge of the Mackay Whitsunday Highway Patrol Group, urges riders of personal mobility devices (PMDs) to be aware of the legislation and road rules of these devices on the road.

“These devices are designed to be ridden on footpaths or suburban back streets, not main thoroughfares,” S/Sgt Edwards explained.

“If a road has centre lines or islands, PMDs are not permitted on the road. On suburban roads, a PMD may go up to 25 kilometres an hour; on footpaths, maximum speed is 12 kilometres. Helmets are always required, and riders must not be using their phone or under the influence.

“There must also be no doubling on PMDs.

“Normal road rules apply to these riders. They must stop for stop signs and follow all road rules,” explained S/Sgt Edwards.

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Neighbourhood Centre Donations Stolen

A series of individuals have repeatedly stolen donations dropped off at the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre over the last few weeks.

The thefts occurred during the night, with donations that had been donated to the Centre outside of office hours.

Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre urge donors to drop off donations during working hours, “so we can remove temptation from these individuals.”

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Traffic held up on Shute Harbour Road while services attended to the e-scooter accident. Photo supplied

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The volunteers of Bowen Tourism and Business were honoured at a morning tea last week, where they were thanked for their dedicated service and lasting commitment to the town.

For Steve Fisher, better known as ‘Fish’, he began volunteering with the team following his retirement in 2015.

“I found myself lost, with nothing to do,” Fish explained.

And having caravanned across Australia with his wife, Chips, he knew he would be able to share recommendations and stories with visitors by volunteering at the Big Mango Tourist Information Centre.

“I find this so rewarding and personally fulfilling. I love the Big Mango, and I am grateful for everything Leanne and the team have been able to offer me.”

Other members of the dream team are Anne and Mark Steen and for them, volunteering is a way to give back to Bowen.

“We love showing tourists the best of Bowen and sharing knowledge and experience,” Mark said.

Bowen Tourism and Business has 18 active volunteers who welcome visitors at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre next to the Big Mango and the information booth at Bowen’s Front Beach.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said the volunteers were an integral part of the organisation.

“They are so dedicated and passionate about our town and the entire region,” she said.

“We held the morning tea as a small token of our appreciation, and we presented each of them with a small gift. Some of them have been helping Bowen Tourism for more than 10 years!”

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Bowen Tourism and Business volunteers at last week’s morning tea - Pam Skinner, Anne Skeen, Marie Bailey, Viv Clark, Margaret Hurst, Mark Steen, Janice Germain, Anne Mason, and Steve Fisher.

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Leanne Abernethy

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Businesses from across the region are invited to register for the inaugural Whitsundays Business Conference which is organised by the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and due to take place later this year.

The Conference will be held Friday, May 31 and will bring together the region’s business community and stakeholders for an inspiring day of education, sharing knowledge and experience.

The morning program will be hosted in Proserpine, with attendees invited to the subsequent afternoon of practical workshops and a Sundowner cocktail networking event in Cannonvale.

Organisers have already put together a sneak-peak of the program which promises an action-packed day of inspiration and motivation.

Start your day with networking and a series of thought-provoking sessions on Building Business Together; The Benefits and Impact of AI and Cybersecurity in Business; Features, Drivers, and Myths About the Future Workforce; and Driving Business Growth and Turning Business On Its Head.

The event has been possible with thanks to Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine, Shiift, and Tassal through their local presence with the Proserpine Prawn Farm, Whitsunday Regional Council, TAFE Queensland Whitsunday Campus, and Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper who have all provided their generous support in bringing this important regional event to life!

On another note, have you been enjoying our new article series featuring Chamber members?

Head over to the Chamber’s Facebook page to learn more about their members and the Ask An Expert series.

Got a business question you want answered? Visit the Chamber’s website or social media to ask your question for an expert response.

Did you know? You can join the Chamber any time, your membership is valid for 12-months from day of joining. We have five membership categories starting from $99 per year to suit a range of needs. We look forward to engaging you in Chamber life and the Whitsundays business community.

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The tourism industry is inching its way back to the black following bad weather events which have significantly impacted the expected visitor numbers and, in-turn, the amount of tourism dollars flying into the region.

Rick Hamilton, CEO of Tourism Whitsundays said it’s been a hectic few weeks for the industry.

“The past six weeks have been eventful to say the least - two cyclones, Christmas Holidays, Clipper Race and a long weekend,” he said.

“Unfortunately, we've taken a huge hit as a region with over $35 million in losses from the two cyclones that didn't hit us, and the weather events affected the Christmas holidays, Clipper Race and long weekend to varying degrees.”

While these impacts are frustrating to operators, they are also a common part of life for our resilient small business owners who are adept at bouncing back from weather events.

Mr Hamilton is currently advocating for some disaster support and is a discussing recovery campaign Tourism and Events Queensland (TEQ) and the Department of Tourism and Sport (DTS).

“I’ll let you know more on that when we have confirmation of the approach,” he explained.

In the meantime, operators are invited to take a quick survey to register their account of damage caused by TC Kirrily.

“The results of this will be submitted to TEQ and DTS,” said Mr Hamilton.

“The results of the survey will compound our bid for further funding to aid tourism recovery in The Whitsundays.”

Take the survey – scan this QR code!

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Tourism Whitsundays CEO Rick Hamilton advocates for support post TC Kirrily. Photo supplied

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The secret to love for this couple is quality time, with every momentspent together a cherished and loving piece of their wider puzzle.

Amy Dolman knewthat Reece Nesbitt was the person for her when she saw him walkingout of a restaurant one evening.

“He just walkedout of the Restaurant I was going to in his chef uniform and I knew Ihad found a handsome man to cook for me for the rest of my life,”Amy laughed.

Now, eightexciting years on, Amy and Reece keep their connection alive andthriving, passion in every moment of their time together.

They have spenttime travelling Europe together and creating long-lasting memories,of the good, the bad and the ugly, and of completing the simplemundane tasks together, like spending time at the beach together.

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Amy and Reece’s top tip for a lasting and loving relationship:

“Keep going onadventures and keep having fun!”

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It began with a workplace romance, with Greg and Nettie Dunlop meeting in the kitchen of a restaurant in Victoria, and since then, the pair have never looked back.

Now, with 30 years of marriage behind them, Greg and Nettie are as inseparable as they were when they first met, and for them, it’s not always about the romance, but a vow to each other.

“It’s not always about the romance but more of making forever memories,” Greg explained.

And great memories they have shared, with one of the more memorable being their 28th wedding anniversary.

“We took a private helicopter and flew out over the Whitsunday Islands, lunched and dined on Whitehaven.”

For this pair, no challenge is too big, always being there for the other, and being a stable, confident rock for the other to rely upon.

“Nettie and I have been inseparable for 30 years. We work, live and love together every day and appreciate every minute of every day,” Greg explained.

“When we are not working, we love just hanging out, keeping life simple, and enjoying each other’s company.”

And, of course, their romance hinges on their laughter.

For Nettie, “If you’re not annoying in some way during the day, life would be pretty boring - as long as it’s in a fun way.”

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Greg and Nettie’s top tip for love:

“Unconditional love is patience and understanding of one another.”

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19 years of being in a relationship has turned a romantic spark into a strong bond for Norina Jane and Tim Perkins, with their love for each other strengthening through their shared sense of humour.

“Sometimes you need humour, so you don’t kill each other!” They laughed.

It began with an interesting introduction, with Norina rummaging in the work fridge, while Tim was being shown through his new workplace, the Proserpine Airport.

“I was head in and bum out of the fridge grabbing the first-class chocolates after the flight departure and Tim walked in with his new boss who was attempting to introduce us, and he said ‘well, this is Norina’s arse.’ And the laughter began from day one!” Norina explained.

For this pair, they cherish the fun moments together, laughing at the adventures and shenanigans they get up to.

“I remember when we spent the night in a tent at the bottom of Ayres Rock, having no idea that it would get down to 1 degree!” Norina explained.

“With no blankets, we just barely made it through the night. We have never wanted to be so close as we were that night. If you are struggling with intimacy, we strongly recommend going to the snow ill equipped for the night. You can thank us later!”

In fact, laughing and playing around is one thing they love doing together and that now includes sharing some down time with their grandson.

“We love our time with our grandson, Rohan. It’s great to let go of all other responsibilities and clown around for a while”. That’s the humour shining through again.

“Making up songs and singing them to Tim’s beat, play-arguing over who loves him the most, chasing each other down the beach, building stick houses from driftwood and laughing with his interpretation of the world. Turns out he loves to laugh too!”

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Tim and Norina’s tips for keeping the spark alive:

“Don’t take each other for granted, not even for a day. What you take for granted, you stop caring about.”

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