Bright Patch Café is fast carving out a place as one of the community’s most welcoming meeting spots, just over a month after opening its doors. Designed with families firmly in mind, the café has already built a loyal following and is continuing to grow its offerings both behind the counter and beyond it.

Newly appointed manager Sally Griffith has stepped into the role with more than two decades of hospitality experience. A familiar face in the community and a strong advocate for neurodivergent families, Sally said the café’s values align perfectly with her own. Plans are already underway to introduce table service in the new year, further supporting parents and carers during their visit.

The team has also expanded, welcoming chefs Christian and Nat, both with backgrounds in high-end restaurants, along with barista Hannah, whose specialty coffee skills are already making an impression.

All staff hold Blue Cards and police checks, reinforcing the café’s family-first approach.

Bright Patch Café also operates seven days a week, responding to growing demand from locals who have embraced it as a regular gathering place.

Community engagement has been a key focus, with mothers’ groups, family daycare providers and schools making regular use of the space. A recent school visit turned the café into a hands-on learning environment, blending food activities with practical life skills.

With a popular all-day menu, a thoughtfully designed children’s area and a busy events calendar ahead, Bright Patch Café is quickly proving it is much more than just a place to grab a coffee.

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Bright Patch Café owner Jameela Walker and Manager Sally Griffith. Photo supplied

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Welcomes Jolie Rochell, Marketing Coordinator

Tourism Whitsundays has welcomed a new face to its marketing team, with Jolie Rochell stepping into the role of Marketing Coordinator earlier this month.

Jolie works across brand and digital marketing, supporting campaigns and partnerships that promote The Whitsundays to audiences around the world. With a multinational background, a key part of her role includes shaping a clear engaging messaging that supports sustainable growth while showcasing what sets the region apart on the global stage.

Since moving to the Whitsundays at the start of the year, she has been struck by the warm welcome from the local community and the diversity of events and activities available year-round for both residents and visitors.

“The turquoise water is iconic, but it was the people who really stood out,” she said.

“Since moving here at the start of the year, I have felt genuinely welcomed and included by the local community from day one.”

In her new role, Jolie is looking forward to collaborating closely with the Tourism Whitsundays team and local members to find fresh and creative ways to promote the region.

“I want our marketing to reflect the witty, friendly personality of The Whitsundays while building strong partnerships that support long-term care for the region,” she says.

Despite its small size, Jolie believes the region offers far more than many people expect.

“That even includes a weekly Latin dance group called Whitsunday Salsa, where locals and visitors come together to learn and dance. And yes, it’s free!"

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Tourism Whitsundays Marketing Coordinator Jolie Rochell

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Happy Holiday Times

“Remember when families used to pile into the car on a Sunday and take off on an adventure? Dad would pull up beside a creek, you’d pile out of the car ready for a swim and Mum would set up the picnic blanket in readiness for a feast under a shady tree. Often grandparents and other members of the extended family would come along too and join in. Dad would light up his portable wood fire barbie and portable tables and fold-up chairs would be unpacked for the “oldies” and picnic baskets would be produced.

Those picnics were a real family occasion with the kids swimming and running around while the adults sat around with a cup of tea talking about 'grown-up' stuff.” (extract from “Australia Remember When” May 23 2019)

But what of picnics in the past?

Proserpine Museum’s photographic archives contain numerous delightful old photos of picnics held in the district in the past such as the one featured here of a riding party in 1927. These were quite common in the day. The group in this photograph had ridden out Goorganga way and stopped for a picnic. A pre-arranged group arrived in their car with the picnic goodies. Watermelon was on the menu, so it is believed that this photo was taken around Christmas time as, in the past, watermelon was available only at that time of year
Picnic sporting days were also a popular feature on the local calendar. Conway Beach outings were well attended with the actual journey being an adventure in itself. People travelled from the old wharf, (the Landing at Glen Isla) overland on horseback, by sulky or buggy or by the sugar loco as far as Saltwater Creek. Here they boarded boats and went right up to the beach front. The program consisted of foot races, horse racing, aquatic sports, pedestrian events.

With no bitumen on the road, the journey to the popular Boxing Day picnic at Cannonvale (then called Cannon Valley) was long and dusty. The dust hung in the air and covered the trees, but this did not deter eager locals and hundreds of people made their way there annually.
Picnics by the local rivers were also popular. The Proserpine River, along with such places as the O’Connell, Gregory and Andromache Rivers, were frequented by many families on weekends.

Fast forward to the second half of the 20th century …

Families would head off to the local beaches which, by this time, were far more easily accessible. Facebook features many stories of childhood reminiscences of family picnics. “Sunday routine for us was Sunday School then home to get changed and off to Cannonvale. There was a shelter shed with power points so Mum would cook a Sunday roast lunch in the electric frypan while we played on the beach. Occasionally, we would go on a picnic somewhere on the Gregory River. We used to pile into the tray part of my Pop’s tilly – no seatbelts. (Robyn Moore)

Despite changes in the 21st century, people still seek popular places to relax with family, connect with friends, and celebrate special events.

Story and photo courtesy of Proserpine Historical Museum.

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Queensland Health is urging residents to stay home when unwell and practise good hygiene over the festive season, following an unseasonal rise in influenza cases across the state.

Latest Queensland Health data, current as of the 14th of December, shows more than 95,000 flu cases have been recorded so far this year — a 21 per cent increase compared with the same time last year. In the week from 8 to 14 December alone, 1,690 new cases were recorded, following 1,973 cases the previous week.

Queensland Health’s Communicable Diseases Branch Executive Director Dr Heidi Carroll said flu cases and hospitalisations remain higher than expected for this time of year.

“While flu case numbers and hospitalisations remain well below the winter peak, the recent summertime increase in cases is unusual,” Dr Carroll said.

Queenslanders who have not yet received the influenza vaccine this year are encouraged to get immunised to protect themselves, their families and the broader community. The vaccine is available through general practices, community pharmacies, community immunisation clinics, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Services.

Queenslanders planning to travel overseas are also advised to speak with their health care provider about how to best protect themselves while travelling.

Fast facts
As of the 14th of December, Queensland has recorded 95,520 flu cases in 2025, with 82 per cent of confirmed cases occurring in people who were not vaccinated. This compares to 78,952 cases recorded by the same time last year.

Of the cases recorded this year, 10,087 (11 per cent) were children aged under five, while 16,176 (17 per cent) were people aged 65 years and over.
‍A total of 9,187 people have been hospitalised with influenza so far this year, with 4,194 (46 per cent) of those aged 65 and over. There have been 289 flu-related deaths recorded between the 1st of January and the 14th of December 2025, compared with 198 deaths during the same period last year.

The 2025 influenza season has been marked by a prolonged peak and a slower decline in case numbers when compared with 2023 and 2024. Health officials say this reflects year-to-year variability influenced by circulating virus strains, environmental and behavioural factors such as increased social gatherings, and population immunity shaped by previous infections and vaccine uptake.

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Residents are encouraged to get vaccinated against influenza to protect themselves and vulnerable loved ones. Photo source: Unsplash

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Community Solutions, a local Not for Profit organization, is set to kick off Community Careers in Cannonvale. This free training is proudly funded by the Queensland Government through its Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative. This program offers tailored assistance and integrated learner support to job seekers while they undertake a nationally recognised qualification, up to certificate III level, and employment skills to prepare for work.

Delivering Certificate III in Individual Support, Certificate II in Resources and Infrastructure or Certificate III in Community these courses are designed to provide face-face training in a fully supported environment. Certificate III in Individual Support commences on the 13th January 2026 with limited spaces available.

Community Solutions are keen to engage those who are locally unemployed, under employed, or who are ineligible for employment assistance, and keen to reengage back into the workforce. If you are a parent wanting to return to work or you are wanting to advance your career or feel this is just want, you want to do - this could be the opportunity for you.

In addition to a formal qualification, participants in each location are also engaged and supported in the following:
• Case management
• One on one mentoring and support
• Resume preparation and writing
• Job interview skills
• Job search advice, including where to look for work, how to apply for work, and understanding employer expectations
• Networking opportunities with local businesses with employers to share their experiences and industry knowledge
• Employability skills, such as communication in the workplace, working in a team, problem solving, planning and organising, and self‐management.
• Assistance sourcing, gaining and retaining employment plus post placement support when employment is commenced.

This is what makes the program such a great way to build skills and increase employability. It is aimed at not only gaining an accredited qualification, it focusses on the soft skills which are just as valuable to employers and offers the participant mentoring and support to reach their goals and build their skill sets to become work ready.

To register your interest contact Karen Allen on
0429 062 054 or Karen.Allen@communitysolutions.org.au .

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A big, goofy grin and soulful brown eyes make Zion hard to miss — and even harder not to fall in love with.

Currently in the care of Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc in Airlie Beach, Zion is a young Bandog cross with a gentle heart and a quiet hope of finding his forever family.

Estimated to be between one and two years old, Zion has had a challenging start to life, leaving him a little shy when first meeting new people. But with patience and reassurance, his affectionate and loyal nature quickly shines through. Once he feels safe, Zion loves nothing more than staying close to his humans and soaking up calm companionship.

Despite his size, Zion is a gentle giant who shows a particularly caring nature around children, interacting with them in a calm and tender way. He has a low to medium energy level, making him well suited to a relaxed household where he can continue building confidence at his own pace.

Rescue volunteers say Zion doesn’t ask for much — just kindness, consistency and a secure environment where he can finally feel at home.

Zion is desexed, vaccinated and microchipped, and would thrive in a calm, patient home willing to give him the time he needs to settle. He is yet to be tested with other dogs.

Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc hopes to see Zion matched with a family who understands that sometimes the most rewarding bonds come from giving a second chance.

Those interested in meeting Zion or learning more are encouraged to contact Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc to arrange a meet-and-greet via email bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com.

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The Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN) have been holding free barbecues for years across the region to raise mental health awareness and provide a sense of community for those who may be struggling with isolation. On Friday evening, the BBQ came to the shores of Bowen, bringing people together for some free snags and good times.

This event was organised by longtime volunteer Megan Mattingley and new Bowen member Keira Prossor. The BBQ took place just before Christmas, a notably difficult time for some struggling with loneliness and stress around the holiday season.

WSPN promises to bring more BBQ's to Bowen for 2026, allowing people to come together and build a network so that no one has to suffer alone.

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Organisers Megan Mattingley and Keira Prossor
David and Cindy

Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi

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Hello Everyone,

... and MERRY CHRISTMAS! What a year of amazing marine life, conservation efforts and wildlife it has been here in the Whitsundays.

In this week's edition, we have New Beginnings (very fitting!), and the Candy Cane Shrimp.

Before we sign off this year's Ruth2Reef, I wanted to say a huge thank you to a few people!

Firstly, thank you to the amazing Tony Fontes from Whitsunday Conservation Council and Kellie Leonard from Whales of the Whitsundays for their brilliant contributions to Ruth2Reef this year, I am very grateful that two such knowledgeable people let me present their research in the paper.

Secondly, thank you to the team at Whitsunday Life for letting me run with my crazy idea to start a Ruth2Reef feature page, and for all the work the designers put into making it so great each week.

Lastly, thank you to my lovely friends, Dani, Kelly, and Ricki, who I know often read my column and deserve a little shout-out!

Thanks for an incredible year!

Ruth

“This is a story of our changing planet, and what we can do to help it thrive…” - Sir David Attenborough.

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Running around in the bush, often barefoot, was once a defining part of Australian childhood, helping children connect with nature and develop a lasting love for the outdoors. This connection was a core principle for how many children learned about their environment. In recent years, however, studies have shown a decline in this behaviour due to technological advances. As a result, children are now less likely to engage with nature or become involved in conservation efforts later in life.

Bernd (Ben) Braeuer is the founder of New Beginnings International. This non-profit charitable organisation is dedicated to bringing positive change to the lives of Australia’s most vulnerable young people, reducing antisocial behaviour among young people, and making communities safer and more liveable.

Ben developed his charity’s programs with a passion for conservation that began at the age of five. The programs primarily achieve this by focussing on wholesome community principles and getting children back outdoors, with the main aim of the programs to “create positive change and get children involved at an early age and interested enough… to either volunteer, go into further study or a career in marine conservation,” Ben explained.

New Beginnings first came to the Whitsundays in 2012 with their ‘Way of Community’ in-school Workshops, then again in 2025 with their ‘Youth Marine Conservation Program’ comprising three levels. Levels one and two cover basic and advanced theory on marine conservation, climate change, and career opportunities, with the level 2 lecture prepared by a Master of Zoology - Marine Biology and Cognition - from the University of Vienna, Austria while on holiday in Australia. Level three is the practical component, and this year’s consisted of beach clean-ups and reef activities, working with Tangaroa Blue/AMDI to record the data nationally. Ben explains this data, “In the end, creates changes in laws like banning plastic straws.”

“The success of our marine programme has just blown my mind.”

“The feedback from kids, parents, and teachers has been phenomenal,” he enthused.

The 2025 Whitsundays-based marine program began with 90 Level One students, with numbers narrowing to 25 by Levels Two and Three through a process of elimination, and the final exercise with four of these 90 students completing all mandatory activities and receiving a Certificate of Course Completion.

Ben believes education on conservation helps kids who may be struggling by giving them purpose and direction. He explains, “it’s a multiple effect,” because kids pass their knowledge on to “their parents, siblings and peer groups.”

He also highlights the simple actions that he teaches kids: “Take three for the sea… just pick up three things.” “If everyone were to do that, the impact would be phenomenal.”
Bernd stresses that people on land have a significant impact on the ocean: “It’s actually as much the people on the land that can have a significant impact.”

Coral surveys conducted by the group in November 2024 showed significant water cloudiness coming from land runoff, highlighting the need for greater awareness and action.

After the success of the 2025 program here, Ben intends to keep on running his Marine Conservation programs and conducting further reef surveys. He explains that being independent allows them to do things differently: “We’re independent, so we’re not locked into GBRMPA funded programmes.”
For further information on the charity’s programs, please see:

https://www.newbeginningsinternational.com
and,
https://www.facebook.com/NewBeginningsMarineProjects

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New Beginnings Marine Conservation Program. Photo supplied.

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The Ocean’s Candy Cane

Want proof that the ocean celebrates Christmas too? Make way for the Candy Cane Shrimp (Alpheus randalli). These little critters are commonly found in Whitsunday reef areas, as they are native to shallow tropical and subtropical waters.

Their name is definitive of their look, evoking a candy cane with their distinct red and white stripes. Great friends with the Goby fish due to their mutualistic relationship, where the nearly blind shrimp digs burrows as the Goby stays on the lookout. Therefore, the relationship is mutually beneficial and they are both reliant on one another for survival.

The Candy Cane Shrimp is medium-sized, reaching around 1.2 inches in length, and the carapace (hard upper shell) of the candy cane shrimp is laterally compressed. They are a species of snapping shrimp and have one cheliped larger than the other, with a large snapping claw that snaps shut quickly, creating a wave of bubbles that generates high acoustic pressure and noise. This can be used as a form of communication or to stun prey for food.

Fun Fact: Male and female Candy Cane Shrimp do not share burrows but will build passageways between adjoining burrows.

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Mackay Airport has once again brightened the festive season for the local community with its annual Making Christmas a Little Brighter campaign.

This initiative recognises lesser-known charities, not-for-profits, and community groups that make a meaningful impact across the region.

This year, five outstanding organisations each received a $2,000 donation to support their vital work.

• BMA CQ Rescue, the region’s aeromedical lifeline, will use the contribution to power its next lifesaving mission across Mackay, Whitsunday, Isaac, and beyond.

• Engedi Inc continues to foster connection and joy for families through thoughtful experiences and mindful traditions.

• MADEC Ltd will direct its donation toward its annual Children’s Christmas Party, providing personalised gifts and therapeutic programs for children and young people.

• Sarina Surf Lifesaving Club Inc, a volunteer-led organisation, will use the funding to support its beach patrols, nippers program, and community education initiatives that build confidence and leadership.

• Safe Sleep Mackay’s innovative mobile sleeping pods will benefit from contributions to their battery power systems, ensuring guests have air conditioning, lights, and secure access for safe rest.

Mackay Airport expressed its gratitude to all who serve the community, noting how difficult it was to select just five recipients from the many deserving nominations.

The airport looks forward to continuing this initiative in 2026, shining a light on local organisations whose dedication spreads joy, safety, and support throughout Mackay.

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Photo source: Mackay Airport

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As we approach Christmas, I want to take a moment to wish you and your family a safe, joyful, and restful festive season.

Christmas is a time to slow down and reconnect — with family, friends, neighbours, and community. It’s also a time to reflect on the year that’s been, to check in on those doing it tough, and to look ahead with hope and purpose. Mackay is built on strong community spirit, and I’m grateful every day to represent a region where people still look out for one another.

With many locals travelling over the holidays, I also want to share an important message: please take care on our roads. This is the season where one poor decision can have lifelong consequences. Whether you’re heading north or south on the Bruce, driving to the beach, or just doing the short trips around town, road safety matters every single time you get behind the wheel.

A few simple reminders can save lives:

• Slow down and drive to conditions — especially in wet weather.
• Buckle up — every seat, every trip.
• Rest before you drive, and take breaks every 2 hours on long journeys.
• Never drive tired, distracted, or under the influence — plan ahead and get home safely.
• Watch for other road users, including motorcyclists, cyclists, and pedestrians.

As we move into the New Year, many of us start thinking about resolutions. My advice is to keep them practical, achievable, and kind to yourself.

A few realistic ideas to set yourself up for success:

• Pick one or two goals rather than a long list.
• Make them specific (for example: “walk three times a week” rather than “exercise more”).
• Start small, build momentum, and celebrate progress.
• If you slip up, reset and keep going — consistency matters more than perfection.
• Consider goals that strengthen your wellbeing, like more time with family, better sleep, a budget check-in, or learning a new skill.

Whatever your plans for the holidays — whether you’re celebrating, travelling, working, or taking things quietly — please know that I’m wishing you peace, health, and happiness, and a positive start to 2026.

Merry Christmas, Mackay — and a safe and happy New Year.

• Member for Mackay, Nigel Dalton MP

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Community Voices Wanted To Guide Tourism Growth

Member for Mirani, Glen Kelly MP, is calling on locals, tourism operators, and community groups to have their say in shaping the future of Eungella and the Pioneer Valley. The newly formed Destination 2045 Strategic Advisory Committee aims to harness the region’s tourism potential and develop a long-term vision that benefits both residents and visitors.

Mr Kelly said the Christmas season is the perfect time for residents and visitors alike to reflect on the opportunities that could elevate Eungella and the Pioneer Valley into a world-class tourism destination.

“Right now, families from across Queensland are visiting Eungella, Finch Hatton Gorge and the upper Pioneer Valley. As people explore these incredible natural landscapes over Christmas, I’m asking them to imagine what’s possible,” Mr Kelly said.

“Better trails, improved visitor facilities, new accommodation options, guided experiences, heritage storytelling, nature-based adventure tourism, the potential is endless. This is our opportunity to bring these ideas together and create a clear plan for the future.”

The Strategic Advisory Committee will bring together local tourism operators, environmental groups, business owners, community leaders, and residents to develop a long-term vision and identify priority projects to support growth under the Queensland Government’s Destination 2045 strategy.

An Expression of Interest (EOI) process has now opened for community members wanting to participate.

“The best ideas always come from locals, the people who live, work, and build businesses in this region,” Mr Kelly said.

Mr Kelly said the success of any long-term tourism vision will depend on local operators and businesses.

“Tourism operators and small businesses are the people who will drive a lasting legacy in Eungella and the Pioneer Valley. Government can support and enable initiatives, but it’s the boots on the ground, the guides, the café owners, the accommodation providers, the adventure tour operators, who bring a destination to life. We need them at the table.”

The committee’s first meeting will be held in Eungella in early 2026, where participants will begin mapping out investment opportunities, infrastructure needs, and policies to enhance the visitor experience.

“This region is one of Queensland’s most spectacular natural assets. With the right planning, it can become a leading ecotourism destination,” he said.

“Let’s use the Christmas season to spark those conversations, while people are up on the Range spotting platypus, hiking our rainforest trails, or enjoying time with family in the Pioneer Valley.”

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Member for Mirani, Glen Kelly MP is calling on locals to help shape the future of tourism in Eungella and the Pioneer Valley through the new Destination 2045 committee. Photos supplied

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A Year Of Visitors, Events, And Adventure

As 2025 wraps up, Mackay Isaac Tourism is celebrating a big year of milestones, from record visitor numbers to standout campaigns and unforgettable events, cementing the region as one of Queensland’s top destinations.

Mackay Isaac Tourism CEO Jeff Stewart-Harris said that this year’s achievements reflect the passion and resilience of our tourism community.

“Together, we’ve elevated Mackay Isaac’s profile and created a foundation for even greater success in 2026”, Mr Stewart-Harris said.

“These results prove that strategic, creative marketing can shift perceptions and drive real outcomes,” Mr Stewart-Harris added.

“We’ve moved beyond being a stopover destination. Travellers are actively seeking Mackay Isaac for authentic experiences.”

With the festive season and school holidays approaching, Mackay Isaac is ready to welcome Free Spirit travellers into 2026.

From sunrise wallaby encounters at Cape Hillsborough to island escapes, outback adventures to vibrant summer events, the region offers endless opportunities to do whatever, whenever.

Wake House Australia & Mackay Adventure Tours and Transfers Managing Director Amanda Pelagalli said the Wake House is seeing an increase in international tourists visiting the park on their travels up north in the lead up to Christmas.

“We’re particularly seeing visitors from Germany, France, Spain and the Netherlands”. Mrs Pelagalli said.

“Looking forward to 2026, Mackay Adventure Tours and Transfers has strong forward bookings particularly with group touring companies looking for exciting new destinations to visit along the Queensland coast”.

Highlights from the year:

•  Visitors Galore: 33,000 international visitors (up 17% on last year) and 773,000 domestic overnight visitors.

•  Tourism Dollars: Domestic visitors spent nearly $900 million across the region, with holidays, business trips, and family visits driving the boom.

• Campaign Reach: Local campaigns like Lucky Catch and Snap, keepuP!, and Free Spirit delivered almost 20 million impressions.

•  Visitors Welcomed: 13,420 guests stopped by Mackay Isaac Visitor Centres, supported by nearly 4,000 volunteer hours.

•  Events Packed the Calendar: From Nebo Rodeo to the Mackay Festival of Arts, locals and visitors enjoyed a diverse lineup of signature events.

•  Digital Leap: A new website and a stunning regional destination shoot showcased the best of Mackay Isaac online.

•  Industry Leadership: Membership in the Australian Cruise Association, contributions to Destination 2045, and advocacy for improved visitor infrastructure kept the region on the map nationally and internationally.

•  Trade Presence: Mackay Isaac Tourism showcased the region at its biggest-ever presence at ATE, attracting both national and international trade attention.

For more information, visit www.mackayisaac.com/plan/deals

Jeff Stewart-Harris and Amanda Pelagalli. Photo supplied

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Meet Silly Little Millie, one of the beautiful pooches currently in care hoping to find her Christmas miracle!

Millie is an 11 month old female Staffy mix with a big personality packed into her 15.5 kg pocket rocket frame. True to her name, she’s a bit of a clown — full of fun, energy, and endless love to give.

Millie is dreaming of her forever family — one that will take her on long walks along the beach, include her in everyday adventures, and shower her with the affection she deserves. Millie would love a home with a fur sibling for company (but not necessary).

Millie is desexed and vaccinated up to date.

If you’re looking for a loyal, playful companion to brighten your days, Silly Millie might just be the perfect match!

Contact Lucys Lucky Tags and Dog Rescue Inc for more information at: lltagsanddogrescue@gmail.com

Donations can also be made to the following details below:

Bank details: Commonwealth
Bank
Name: Lucys Lucky Tags and Dog Rescue Inc
BSB: 064-722
Account: 1069 7243

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