Just Tuk’n Around hit the road in 2015 as a fun, light-hearted, informative eco-friendly tour experience. Their unique fleet of 14 tuk tuks offer a range of tours – from their 30-minute tour, their popular Progressive Dinner, and special occasion celebrations – that zip around our pathways and boardwalks highlighting the history, landscape, and everything to do in Airlie Beach.

Just Tuk’n Around welcomed new owners in July 2023, Julia and Steve Whitton. 

They met on Long Island in 1992 and then worked on Long Island, Daydream Island and South Molle Island for a decade.

After managing resorts on the Gold Coast for 20 years Steve was desperate to get back to the Whitsundays.

Being a natural entertainer, Steve started working for Just Tuk’n Around as a tour guide just so he could ride around all day looking at the beautiful scenery and talking to people. When the business came up for sale, he realised he had found his perfect job.

Their advice to other businesses is that your team and customer service are everything, your number one priority. A great team providing a great customer service experience is unbeatable, your secret weapon. 

As members of the Chamber, the Whitton’s have been excited to see the recent development of the Chamber and the positive steps they are taking not only for local businesses but the community as a whole. 

This month’s article showcasing our diverse businesses community was brought to you in partnership with the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Whitsunday Life Newspaper. 

‍

Owner Steve Whitton pedalling to success. Photo credit: Supplied

‍

This month marks Domestic and Family Violence Awareness Month, a time when we come together as a community to acknowledge the significance of this issue in our society.
 
As Mayor, I stand with our community in raising awareness and advocating for the prevention of domestic and family violence. While there is heightened national interest in this issue at the moment, it's important to recognise that the problem is ongoing.
 
I had the honour of attending candle lighting ceremonies in Bowen and Cannonvale last week where we remembered those affected in our community. Let us continue to raise awareness, support survivors and strive for a future free from violence in our homes and communities.
 
At the last Council Meeting, a decision was reached to initiate community consultation concerning the available options for replacing the Dingo Beach Stinger net. We understand the critical role this net plays in ensuring the safety of beachgoers, particularly during stinger season.
 
It's essential that any decision regarding the replacement of the net reflects the needs and viability for the community into the future. I encourage residents to keep an eye out in the newspaper and on our online engagement portal, Your Say Whitsunday, for your chance to have a say in the coming weeks.
 
Works are well underway on our Collinsville Pump Track, located in Darcy Munro Park. Our contractor has been busy shaping berms, installing drainage and asphalting the track.
 
This week will see the finalisation of the track and laying natural and synthetic turf. So, to the kids (and parents!), prep your scooters and bikes, keep an eye out for the opening date announcement and get excited for your first ride soon! 
 
Thanks to the Bowen Rail Company for funding the project that adds yet another outdoor activity to Collinsville and provides our children with a safe and enjoyable space to play, exercise, and connect with each other.
 
Don't miss the historic Freedom of Entry event this Saturday 11 May as hundreds of uniformed soldiers from 3rd Combat Engineers Regiment (3CER) of Townsville march through Airlie Beach Main Street.
 
Building on the Freedom to the City bestowed upon 3CER in 2017, this year's celebration marks the first granting of Freedom of Entry to the Whitsunday Region.
 
This is our opportunity for the Whitsunday Region to show our respect and gratitude to the Regiment for helping the entire Whitsunday region get back on its feet after the turmoil of Tropical Cyclone Debbie in March 2017.
 
I encourage everyone across the region to join us for this impressive spectacle and community gathering at the Airlie Beach Foreshore, including the Lions Airlie Beach Markets and an Australian Defence Force display.

‍

Contributed with thanks to Ry Collins.

‍

Whitsunday Regional Council is offering FREE bushfire resilience training and Property Bushfire Plans for landowners, funded by the Commonwealth Government's Black Summer Bushfire Recovery Grants Program.
These sessions help participants assess risks and learn crucial mitigation strategies. Training is available in Proserpine, Collinsville, Cannonvale, and Bowen to enhance community resilience against potential bushfires.
Call 1300 972 753 to enquire.
 

‍

Rob Taylor
Expands The Empire

After a successful six years in business, Taylors Property Specialists is charting new waters with its expansion into Proserpine, a key market which owner Rob Taylor, has earmarked for extensive growth.

Purchasing Whitsunday Realty earlier this year, Rob’s strategic business plan identifies a young, dynamic element coming into the Proserpine market, alongside future overall growth of a broader region set to boom in the coming years.

“We’ve got a really good market share that we are proud of, but we were keen to make a change. It’s not about being the biggest, but there’s an opportunity to come in and do something different in a new area, and that’s what excites us.”

Having worked in real estate for over 20 years, Rob is a seasoned veteran in the industry who leads his business with integrity, dedication, and performance. Over the past six years he has nurtured a strong dynamic team with a vibrant culture and cohesive work ethic.

“When you walk through the door this is your work family, and this office is your work home,” said Rob.

“Everyone who works here has virtually identical moral standards and that’s the reason the broader business works so well.”

Launching as an independent real estate agency six years ago, Taylors Property Specialists has always been determined to do things a little differently. Rob remembers that when he started out in real estate, he was among the first to use his profile picture on signs and create a personal brand in the region. He loves setting trends and staying ahead of the game.

One trend he is witnessing now is a new, young demographic moving to Proserpine. At just 20 minutes from Airlie Beach, and a lot more affordable, Proserpine is quickly becoming known as the ‘place to live’. Likening it to some of the old Brisbane suburbs, Rob has witnessed young couples purchase old Queenslanders and spend their weekends renovating, creating beautiful houses and strong investments along the way.

Leading one of the most respected real estate agencies in the region, Rob is at the helm of a highly dynamic, highly valued and much-loved local brand that continues to evolve and expand with the community it serves.

‍

Rhett Nelson
Property Specialist

A Whitsunday local for the past 12 years, Rhett intrinsically understands the ebbs and flows of the community and his good-natured personality is always a pleasure to deal with.

With a genuine desire to help and a dash of good humour, clients feel ease in Rhett’s company, and when they witness his professionalism, they know they are in safe hands.

An agent who takes pride in building strong relationships, Rhett has a genuine desire to help and will always go above and beyond to create the best possible outcome for his clients.

With a deep understanding of the local real estate market Rhett is able to provide invaluable insights to his clients that assist with both the buying and selling process.

Having helped countless individuals and families find their dream homes in the town and surrounding areas, Rhett is respected among his peers and valued by all his clients.

Known for his friendly demeanour and his willingness to help, every property transaction is conducted with genuine care, attention to detail and upmost consideration to all parties involved.

Rhett recognises that buying or selling a property can be a complex and emotional process and he works tirelessly to provide his clients with all the information they need to make an informed decision.

His commitment to establishing strong, trusting relationships is a testament to his dedication to providing exceptional service. 

‍

Natalie Stuchbree
Senior Property Manager

The driving force behind the Property Management team, Natalie started with Taylors in 2019, when she was brought in to establish the residential rental department.

Under Natalie’s direction, the leasing department has expanded and developed to the point of requiring four full time property managers, administration and support staff and a large commercial portfolio within five years.

More than just a transaction, Natalie believes that every interaction is personal, and it is this attitude that adds deeper meaning to her services, and one that clients appreciate.

By using effective communication and a commitment to integrity, Natalie’s team builds
lasting relationships with both their lessor clients and tenant customers alike, ensuring their needs are met to a very high standard.

“For me, it isn’t just about leasing properties; it’s about helping people to achieve their goals, whether it be increasing their wealth through their investment portfolio or settling into their new home,” she shared.

“I believe in the power of teamwork and empowering my staff to draw upon all of our experiences to cultivate an environment where everyone can thrive.

“At Taylors, we don’t just lease properties; we aim to find the right person for the right property by listening to our customer’s needs and working together to find solutions.  

“Ensuring each interaction is infused with professionalism, warmth, and a touch
of fun helps us to achieve our goals.”
 
Originally from Victoria, Natalie moved to the Whitsundays with her family in 2016.

She is now thriving within the community and redefining the role of property management
on a broader scale so that everyone benefits from the attitude she infuses into every aspect of her life.

‍

Brad Sobott
Property Specialist

A well-known face across the region, Brad Sobott has an extensive reputation for not only his real estate professionalism but also his work within the community. A professional auctioneer, when he’s not selling houses, Brad is often called upon to utilise his skills as a charity auctioneer. He is recognised as one of the most experienced auctioneers in the Whitsundays having called over 500 auctions, both from the podium and within private negotiation.

With an extensive career that spans almost 25 years, Brad has worked across multiple agencies including operating his own agency in the past.

He has also won countless industry awards.

Moving to the Whitsundays with his young family in 2009, Brad elected to stay for “a little while” which ultimately became a “long while” when he realised how much he loved the region as a place to raise a family.

While Brad brings a lot of experience to the table, he also believes the attentiveness and sensitivity with which he treats his clients throughout the process really sets him apart.

Brad deeply values the trust placed in him to assist in what is for many people one of their biggest transactions and does his utmost to ensure the process is memorable for the right reasons.

Prioritising long-standing relationships, Brad always forms strong connections within the community and runs his portfolio with integrity, diligence and passion. These work ethics form the basis of Brad’s impeccable reputation and drive him to not only be the best real estate agent, but also the best person he can.

‍

Ali Swain
Commercial Property Specialist

With a wealth of experience spanning many years, Ali is known for her unwavering commitment and exceptional service and always goes above and beyond to ensure a positive outcome.

Ali’s strength lies in her ability to cultivate lasting relationships with clients and tenants alike.

Whether you’re a property owner seeking management solutions, a business looking to lease
space or you need a storage shed.

Approachable, knowledgeable and professional, Ali is dedicated to providing a personalised service to
suit your needs.

Having relocated to the Whitsundays in 2000, Ali moved to the area after enjoying
many happy childhood holidays spent on her grandparents’ sugar cane farm in Glen Isla.

For all your inquiries regarding the management or leasing of your commercial investment
property, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Contact Ali on 0461 496 380 or email commercial@taylorspropertyspecialists.
com.au

‍

Introducing our region’s first buyers’ agency, Whitsundays Property Buyers, a dedicated
local service that assists with one of the most important decisions you will ever make in
your life – buying a new home.

At the heart of the transaction, a buyers’ agent is a Licensed Real Estate professional who
offers impartial advice to people so they can make informed decisions at every step of their
home-buying journey.

With access to both on and off market properties, Whitsundays Property Buyers open the
door to an array of options that may not otherwise be in your realm of discovery.

By listening to your wants and needs, they offer a personalised service which really connects
and offers a higher level of advice, eliminating the stress of finding a home and tailoring
potential properties specifically to meet your requirements.

In addition to sourcing the right property, Whitsundays Property Buyers can also hold your
hand throughout the whole experience - from negotiating the deal and securing the right
price to attending an auction for you and dealing with contracts and legalities to make the
process seamless and stress free through to settlement.

With a range of packages available, Whitsundays Property Buyers can be with you every
step of the way, or you can simply select individual services that match your requirements.

Owners of Whitsundays Property Buyers, Drew and Lara Kell-Colliver, launched their
business earlier this week, this huge milestone representing meticulous planning and a
dream come true.

The two experienced Licenced Real Estate Agents moved to Cannonvale last year to start
their family, selecting this location after countless visits and family holidays to the region
throughout their lives.

Drew has been working within the real estate industry since 2014 and Lara has worked in
National Sales Management for luxury fashion brands for over a decade before moving
across to Real Estate Sales four years ago.

The pair met when they worked for a real estate agency in the Sunshine Coast and were the
“secret office romance” before making it official and starting a successful selling team.

It was when they decided to start looking at properties in the Whitsundays that they saw a
massive gap in the market for a buyer’ agency, a service which is very popular in other areas
of the country.

“We found the experience of buying a property here extremely hard, because we were
flying up on Saturdays to view houses, geographically it was very challenging” explained
Lara.

“If there was a buyers’ agency here at the time, we would have definitely utilised that
service.”

Excited to pioneer this unique service in the region, Drew and Lara are looking forward to
setting a high benchmark which embodies exceptional service, simplicity, and reward for
clients, by facilitating unified efficiency between buyers and local real estate.

“We’re here to take the stress and the pressure away and make everything as seamless as
possible for all parties,” expressed Drew.

“With our services, prospective purchasers can be confident that they have an expert team
working diligently and exclusively for them to find the perfect home and make a sound
investment for their future.”

‍

Lara and Drew from Whitsundays Property Buyers. Photo supplied by Vittoria Film

‍

With one in two people receiving a cancer diagnosis during their lifetime, cancer is rapidly moving from being a taboo subject, into a commonly discussed and often shared experience, where we can relate, support and tackle the disease together.

While everyone is nervous about heading to the doctor to check an unusual lump, pain or symptom, it is vital that we all take responsibility for our health and make the appointment.

Countless studies have shown that when cancer is picked up in its early stages, not only the prognosis, but also the treatment options improve. Basically, your chances of survival increase dramatically with early detection.

The main message that health organisations are wishing to get across in regards to cancer symptom awareness is that it’s important to be aware of what is normal for you and speak to your doctor if you notice any unusual changes or something that won’t go away.

In the majority of cases, the symptoms are caused by something less serious than cancer, but it is important to get them checked anyway.

Here is a list of signs and symptoms to look out for:

Very Heavy Night Sweats Or Fever 

Sweating at night or having a high temperature (fever) can be caused by infections or a side effect of certain medications. It’s also often experienced by women around the time of the menopause. But speak to your doctor if you have very heavy, drenching night sweats, or an unexplained fever. 

Fatigue 

There are lots of reasons why you may feel more tired than usual, particularly if you’re going through a stressful event, or having trouble sleeping. But if you’re feeling tired all the time, or, for no clear reason, it could be a sign that something is wrong - speak to your doctor.

Unexplained Bleeding Or Bruising 

Unexplained bleeding or bruising when you have not hurt yourself is important to get checked out by your doctor. This includes blood in your poo or pee, as well as vomiting or coughing up blood. It also includes any unexplained vaginal bleeding between periods, after sex or after the menopause.  No matter how much blood or what colour it is (blood can be red, or a darker colour like brown or black), speak to your doctor.

Unexplained Pain Or Ache 

Pain is one way our body tells us that something is wrong. As we get older, it’s more common to experience aches and pains. But unexplained or persistent pain anywhere in the body could be a sign of something more serious.

Unexplained Weight Loss 

Small weight changes over time are quite normal, but if you have lost a noticeable amount of weight without trying to, tell your doctor.

Unusual Lump Or Swelling Anywhere 

Persistent lumps or swelling in any part of your body should be taken seriously. This includes any lumps in the neck, armpit, stomach, groin, chest, breast, or testicle.

‍

Information supplied by Cancer Research.

‍

“This is the best place in the world.”

“You’ll never find a better place than this in the world.”

This is how two regulars at the Whitsunday Leisure Activity Centre describe the place where they go to relax, connect and enjoy a range of activities.

The Whitsunday Leisure Activity Centre provide group social support to the elderly or people living with disabilities.

Workshops, art therapy and DrumFun are just some of the things they offer.

Chief Executive Officer, Jayne Milne says through their workshops and activities they hope to combat the onset of dementia and provide an all-abilities environment.

People absolutely love going to the centre and Jayne said that they have recently had a participant that was extremely sick but he had to come back in for his own peace of mind and mental health.

“He had to come back in here even though he's not well, his daughter said that her Dad’s mood picked-up afterwards, he was really depressed and as soon as he walked back in here you’d never know anything's wrong with him,” Jayne added.

The Whitsunday Leisure Activity Centre offers transport so everybody can be included if they want to participate in social connection, support and of course fun activities.

With a host of exciting new events coming up, it’s understandable why people do not want to miss out.

This Friday they have a high tea, luncheon to celebrate Mother’s Day, and at the end of the month they have their Biggest Morning Tea fundraiser.

The Biggest Morning Tea will be open to the public too.

Jayne believes in getting the members out to have a little bit of fun and the next outing is the Mad Hatters Tea Party.

“That's just something to get the guys out for a little bit of fun, because we do an outing each month.”

The Whitsunday Leisure Activity Centre is kind of a hidden gem, Jayne says people predominantly hear of them through word of mouth.

With this in mind, Jayne would like to get a message out to the community that any elderly people or those living with a disability are welcome to attend this free service.

Jayne says the main thing they focus on is creating a safe environment.

“We try and make it as safe an environment as possible, a place they feel loved, welcomed and valued.

“We’re almost like second family to some people.”

‍

Chief Executive Officer, Jayne Milne. Photo Credit: Daniel Heggie

‍

More than 250 students and their family members attended Proserpine State High School’s Apprenticeship and Traineeship Evening last week.
 
Industry representatives flew in from a range of locations, including capital cities and apprentice guest speakers travelled in from mine camps to speak at the school’s inaugural event.
 
The aim of the evening was to prepare students for entering the workforce and helping them understand what’s involved in an apprenticeship or traineeship application process.

It also provided students with the opportunity to meet industry experts and ask questions face-to-face.
 
Guest speakers from Abbott Point Operations, Wilmar and MAS National discussed application processes, what employers are looking for from applicants and the importance of report cards, resumes and cover letters when applying.

They also highlighted the importance of knowledge of the business you are applying for and what services and support are in place once you start an apprenticeship or traineeship.
 
A panel of former Proserpine State High School students who are currently undertaking apprenticeships and traineeships inspired students with their stories of success. 
 
Proserpine State High School Senior Schooling Officer Mrs Bernie Porter thanked those who attended, especially representatives from each of the industry businesses for giving up their valuable time to speak with families about their child’s future employment opportunities.
 
“We’ve already received positive feedback from attendees who are looking forward to next year’s event,” she said.

“We’re hoping to make it bigger and better next year with a wider variety of industry representation.”
 
The following day MAS National staff followed up at the school with an apprenticeship information session where Proserpine State High School Certificate II Skills for Work students were able to have their resumes proofed and participate in mock interviews to prepare them for their transition into the workforce.
 
“We are extremely grateful to all our industry attendees and presenters for the investment in making this event such a success,” said school Principal Mr Don McDermid.  
 
“Their commitment to supporting, guiding and inspiring the next generation of young people making their way into the workforce has been invaluable. 

“Our school looks forward to continued partnerships with business and industries to provide students with a broad array of post-school pathways when entering the workforce.”  

‍

Proserpine State High School Senior Schooling Team. Photo supplied

‍

Don’t miss out on the all-day Mother’s Day celebrations at the Reef Gateway, where your festivities will be covered from sunrise to sunset.

If you’re early risers the buffet breakfast starts at 9am and runs until 11am, it’s a great way to start the morning.

Filled with all of your hot and cold food favourites, it will be a breakfast that will delight.

The breakfast costs $36 for adults, $15 for ages 6-12 and under 5’s are free.

Mum will also get a complimentary drink on arrival after 10am.

If Mum feels like a lie in on Mother’s Day, the Reef Gateway is open are lunch and dinner too.

Reserve a table and you can enjoy their à la carte menu, filled with all of your pub favourites.

But it’s not just food and drinks that Mum will enjoy, there is also live music, which will run from 12pm – 3pm.

Whether Mum enjoys breakfast, lunch or dinner, the Reef Gateway will please everyone this Mother’s Day.

‍

For those of us who think little of jumping into a car at a moment’s notice and scooting off to Mackay in an hour and a half, day or night, it’s hard to imagine a time when Mackay was reached via Bowen per boat! Such was the case in 1908 when Mrs Eliza Fuller, her husband and very young daughter and son decided to visit friends there.
This is her story reported in the “Proserpine Guardian”.
Friends from Proserpine, the Velongs, had sold their farm and moved to a hotel in Mackay and invited the Fullers to visit. As Mrs Fuller previously had seen only Bowen and Proserpine, the invitation was accepted.
Travelling anywhere in those times was an undertaking of considerable dimensions. In addition to intense preparation days beforehand, it meant catching a 6 am coach to Bowen (after coming to Proserpine from their Strathdickie farm) and sitting in the sun in an open coach until they arrived in Bowen at 5pm then to bed in one of the hotels.
Room service was poor in those days. The proprietor forgot to call the family early next morning in time for breakfast before embarkation and, after a frenzied late call of “Boat’s in!” they just had time to throw clothes in a basket after quickly dressing and running for it.
They were allocated a tiny cabin for the day’s run to Mackay, but nothing to eat, except an ice cream, until Midday.
More troubles in Mackay when the primitive landing arrangements had to be foregone owing to rough seas. Disembarkation was managed by slinging several people (the Fullers and their very young children in one lift) in a tarpaulin over the side of the ship’s winch, into a waiting row boat.
As it was too rough for the ship to land, one can imagine what it was like in a small row boat. Wet and tired, passengers were taken up the river and arrived at the hotel at dusk. But not their luggage basket which did not come ashore until ten o’clock the following morning.
Although it took two long days to reach Mackay, the visit was enjoyed however Mrs Fuller was not impressed with that town at that time, as there were so many swamps around in the low-lying areas.
They were enjoying the unusual break from the farm when late one day Mr Fuller heard a sugar boat returning direct to Proserpine that night. There was a wild rush to pack and say goodbye and they managed to board the vessel at 7 pm. Mrs Fuller and her two children were shown to a small shelter to spend the night.
It was rough and uncomfortable, lying on bare boards but they were too seasick to care. Mr Fuller spent the night on the open deck, talking and dozing, with the boat eventually running up the Proserpine River and reaching the old Glen Isla landing at six o’clock the next morning. In those days, much cargo was landed at this spot in the river which was serviced by a mill loco tramway pulling cane trucks equipped with a low cross rail on which passengers could sit.
Mr Fuller had left his horse and buggy at the family’s farm out towards Breadalbane, and after a quick breakfast and some shopping in town, they harnessed the horses and were back home by noon.
Eliza Fuller certainly never had another trip quite like that again. And whilst it was a primitive journey, it was far preferable to going to Bowen via Proserpine – another a day’s journey by coach.

‍

Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum
The landing at Glen Isla

‍

Darren Sullivan
I'd probably say as far as the population and how much people want it, yeah, there would be, but probably not as much as other places. Most people just went down to Cannonvale or Airlie Beach where they have a bit more access to that. And I’d like to see more up here in Proserpine, it wouldn’t be a bad thing.

Nikki Ellis
I don't think there's enough here at all. But yeah, I think, art exhibitions and other things like that, I would absolutely like to see that. I'm a bit of a recluse. I stay at home a lot. So, I don't really come out and do stuff. But I think with what the Proserpine Entertainment Centre (PEC) is doing with the comedy festivals is good, but I think there needs to be more.

Christine Perry
I'm just traveling through, but I do actually travel around Australia, I've been on the road for two and a half years. So, I go visit all these different towns. And this is my exploration walk to see what this is like. So, the one thing that does impress me is the cultural centre up there and then I noticed walking down here there was like a dance studio and those sorts of things and I think you don't see that too often. So that's a plus in I suppose a small country town.

Betty Atkinson
Well, for the older populations, what we have here with the PEC, the shows that come to the entertainment centre, it’s sufficient for them. But I think it's more the people down towards Cannonvale, the younger generation, the talk of an art gallery and other things would interest them, I think that would be very helpful.

Toni-Ann Parry
More museums would be good. I know we've got one here in Proserpine and an art gallery it would be good. There’s only one museum here, and I’m in Airlie Beach so no, there isn’t enough, there’s only one.

‍

Life's hurdles have a knack for showing up uninvited, don't they?

I have always believed in a balance in life, a yin and yang, that we must battle through the bad to truly appreciate the good. Well, over the past few weeks, I've found myself facing a series of challenges that have tested my strength in ways I hadn't quite anticipated. And I hope there’s a whole lot of good around the corner.

Firstly, I want to extend my sincerest thanks to everyone who reached out after hearing about my cancer diagnosis. Your emails were greatly appreciated, reminding me of the genuine connections we share within our community.

Unfortunately, recent scans have shown that the cancer isn't content to stay put in my bowel and has decided to explore a bit further. Surgery is still my next step in a couple of weeks, but it is looking like the road may be a bit longer with a few more twists and turns to navigate.

To add extra complexity and heartache to the mix, my little one has decided to join the chaos with a bout of Adenovirus and RSV. Because, you know, one illness just isn't enough these days. Unfortunately we’ve spent the long weekend in hospital with him as he battles for breath. So here I am, writing to you from the hospital cafeteria, trying to fight my heavy eyes with a lukewarm cup of coffee.

On a brighter note, as we approach Mother's Day, let's take a moment to celebrate the incredible women who bring love and light into our lives. May your day be filled with endless kisses and cuddles. And to those dusting off their dancing shoes for the Mayor's Ball on Saturday night, let's make it a night to remember, shall we?

I hope to see you there, if my little one has made his way home by then.

‍

Amanda

‍

Porters have kindly donated a bench in honour and memory of Kennedy Elfverson, a young girl described as ‘a ray of sunshine’ who battled epilepsy and sadly passed away in February this year.  

The unveiling of the Friendship Benches, adorned in Kennedy's beloved colours, marked a heartfelt moment for the school community. Alongside this gesture, a successful fundraiser was held, generating over $2000 in support of Epilepsy Queensland.

The donation of a bench in honour and memory of Kennedy’s vibrant young soul, represents far more than just a physical object, it symbolises a community's collective love, remembrance, and commitment to supporting a cause close to their hearts.
Kennedy's infectious personality, marked by her courageous battle with epilepsy, touched the lives of many within the region and school community that had the privilege of knowing her.
Mackay West State School posted to Facebook, thanking Porters for donating the friendship bench in admiration of Kennedy.
Followed by “Kennedy will always be remembered by our students when we see her rainbow bench in the playground.”

‍

Porters donated a ‘friendship bench’ in honour and remembrance of Kennedy Elfverson, a lively young soul who tragically passed away in February this year. Photo Credit: Porters Mackay (Facebook)

‍

By Hannah McNamara

It’s no secret that crime, specifically in relation to theft and the unlawful use of a motor vehicle, seem to have progressively worsened within the region.

In regards to a recent head-on collision that unfolded early last week, a Suzuki Swift was stationary at a red light in Rural View when a 4-wheel-drive, allegedly driven by an unlicensed and under-the-influence driver, was reported to have run the red light, veering onto the opposite side of the road, resulting in a high-impact collision. The unlicensed driver who was allegedly under-the-influence was arrested and charged at the scene.

A witness who preferred to remain anonymous commented, “Something seriously has to be done, and soon, somebody could have lost their life and for what?”

While police confirm this incident was not linked to vehicle theft, the instances of stolen vehicles, dangerous driving and a threat to public safety remain an escalating concern.

Statistics from Mackay Police show that since 2001, crime specific to vehicle theft was the highest ever in the region last year in 2023, with approximately 631 cases deemed as an ‘Unlawful Use Of Motor Vehicle’.

Over a period of three months, between January and March this year, statistics show that there have already been 209 cases subject to this ongoing issue, not including the recent months of April and May which are yet to be tallied.

In response to these shocking numbers, our regional police services are doing everything they can to not only prevent the issue but keep the community safe.

While we steadily depend on our diligent police officers to combat this issue, Mackay District Crime Prevention Coordinator, Steve Smith, shared his insights on how we as residents, can do our part by preventing the issue in the most effective way possible.

Sergeant Smith said, “Car thieves are easily frustrated – for thieves to steal your car they need possession of your keys to do it.

“Where you store your keys in the home matters – the key hooks on the wall, the kitchen bench, a bowl on the table - it’s a bad idea to store keys in these places – keep them secured out of sight,” he added.

“I know people are likely tired of hearing these messages – but it’s far more frustrating to have your car stolen and damaged or worse.”

Alternatively, some other ways to prevent car theft is to ensure your doors are locked, take your keys with you, lock your wheel and install a GPS tracker.

“If you are doing all that you can to secure your car and the keys then the odds will favour you,” Sergeant Smith added.

“Outside of this, we want to work with the community to catch those responsible for stealing cars.”

In light of keeping clear of reckless drivers, it’s important to always stay vigilant when driving and report anything that seems out of the ordinary.

“If you witness anything which you believe to be suspicious, please tell us straight away.”

‍

The 4-wheel-drive involved in an accident at Rural View last week where its driver was allegedly arrested for being unlicensed and driving under the influence. Photo source: Facebook

‍

What does a change strategist who has inspired 500,000 people across five continents; a national net-zero leader with in-depth knowledge of decarbonisation and a founder who combines maggots and biotechnology all have in common?

They are just some of the world -leading speakers and experts taking the stage at the Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit on Thursday May 23, at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention centre (MECC).

This one-day event, the first of its kind for the Greater Whitsunday region, will feature 30 influential speakers who are leading conversations across the decarbonisation movement.

Announcing the impressive line-up of speakers, Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) Chief Executive Officer Ms Kylie Porter said the summit program was curated to feature world class experts who tackle tricky subjects with practical, positive advice.

“Our region is unique globally and these speakers have been selected because of their extensive knowledge base but also their enthusiasm to work with our local businesses to ignite their decarbonisation journey,” Ms Porter said.

“This is a unique opportunity for our region to not only learn from but engage with these global leaders.”

Ms Porter said the summit is targeting small and medium business owners and operators who are ready to take the next steps on their decarbonisation journey.

“Our region’s businesses will learn a diverse range of solutions and strategies for a low carbon future,” she said.

Resources Centre of Excellence (RCOE) Chief Executive Officer Mr Steven Boxall, CEO said the quality of our keynote speakers is a testament to the importance and urgency of the decarbonisation challenge.

“By bringing together these world-class experts, we aim to foster collaboration and innovation that will propel our industries towards a cleaner, more sustainable future in our region," Mr Boxall said.

The Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit opens at 8.30am with four keynotes throughout the day including change strategist Michael McQueen; ThinkZero founder and Managing director Cle-Anne Gabriel; Vice President of Climate at BHP Graham Winkelman and Founder of Goterra Olympia Yarger.

Michael McQueen, is a multi-award-winning speaker, change strategist, and bestselling author of ten books. With clients including Google, Toyota, and Mastercard, he has helped some of the world's most successful brands navigate uncertainty and stay ahead of the curve. Michael will share his insights into the shifts toward a decarbonised world and how local change can have a global impact.

Cle-Anne Gabriel is the Founder and Managing Director of ThinkZero. She is a sustainable development specialist, consultant, author, and public speaker, and a national leader in this space in Australia. Gabriel brings her in-depth knowledge of decarbonisation and net-zero strategies to the table to assist businesses in commencing their net-zero journeys. She will also explore case studies from her own experiences and where businesses have successfully changed to a decarbonised future.

Graham Winkelman, Vice President of Climate at BHP is responsible for BHP's public commitments to decarbonisation across both its operations and broader value chain. Graham will provide valuable insights into the role of government and long-term policy settings to support the transition to a lower-emissions economy.

Olympia Yarger is the founder of Goterra, where she leads the vision of redefining waste management with biotechnology and eco-friendly infrastructure design. Olympia will provide a passionate example of building products that allow businesses to meet a growing consumer demand for sustainable service provision and agile infrastructure capability.

The summit will also feature morning and after sessions, panel discussions, followed by breakout streams, where attendees can focus on various aspects of decarbonisation, including people, industry, environment, and opportunity. The afternoon session will involve more keynotes, a regional panel and roundtable discussions that will provide further inspiration and practical guidance for local businesses looking to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Also featured in the summit program will be some of Australia’s leading decarbonisation experts and leaders from industry and government including QLD Hydro, Clean Energy Council, Main Sequence, Sedgman, Cauldron and the Sustainable Minerals Institute.

The Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit will conclude with networking drinks at 4.30pm. For more information and tickets visit Decarbonisation Accelerated website.

The Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit is a joint initiative of the Resources Centre of Excellence (RCOE) and Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3).

‍

Change strategist Michael McQueen

ThinkZero founder and Managing director Cle-Anne Gabriel

Founder of Goterra Olympia Yarger

‍