By Hannah McNamara

In the realm of music's enchanting notes, Kenneth Martin recently claimed the prestigious Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM). A melody maestro, his life's composition harmonises with this revered accolade, often referred to as the nation’s greatest honour.

In an interview with Mackay Life, he shares his thoughts on the significance of the OAM and reflects on his musical journey.

Amid humility and surprise, Mr Martin selflessly underlined that many others are deserving of this accolade. However, this particular recognition highlights the unique impact of his dedication to the world of art and music, serving as a testament to a lifetime devoted to the pursuit of musical excellence.

“It’s a great honour and I’m quite surprised,” Mr Martin said.

“Many people deserve awards, none the less it’s good to know this one relates in particular to art and music.

Born and raised in London, Mr Martin’s journey into the realm of music began during his school days in England when he joined the choir. Fate had a different path for him as his family migrated to Australia. It was in Mackay where he found himself entwined with the local choir, all thanks to some persuasive encouragement from his partner at the time.

“My then-fiancé – now wife conned me into joining the choir,” he laughed.

Reflecting on the source of unwavering support throughout his musical journey, he looks close to home when it comes to the encouragement he has received throughout the years.

“My wife is my biggest supporter,” he said.

“Now that I’m with the Mackay Choral Society I get great support there as well, I’ve been with them for nearly 50 years,” Mr Martin explains.

During his time as President of the Mackay Choral Society, Mr Martin initiated the construction of a new hall, which has since become a symbol of their great growth and success.

“Rehearsal facilities were in the old butter factory and before that they were held at church halls as we didn’t have our own premises,” he said.

“I became the president and instigated the need for a new hall – and we now have it.

“It’s beautiful, fully air conditioned and overall, a great place.”

When asked about his future plans, he joked that he would have to live a long time to accomplish everything in music and community that he desires.

“I’d say living to 150 years old so I can keep going as long as I can!

“The choir has such a strong organisation and I’m still involved.”

Having served as the president for an impressive 25 years and as vice president for another 13, he highlights the choir's resilience and unity, involving around 80 ongoing members, creating a strong and vibrant community. He continues to perform passionately and skilfully without any signs of slowing down.

Fond memories flood his mind as he reflects on his musical journey. From portraying the major general in the recent rendition of "The Pirates of Penzance" to overseeing the renovation of the choir hall, he cherishes numerous moments of joy and achievement. When asked if he would like to share any special memories, Mr Martin recounted, “well, I’ve got too many to report!

“We did the Pirates of Penzance recently and I played the part of the major general.

“I loved it, and the audience did too. On the administration side of things, we renovated the hall to really make it sparkle and I’m very pleased with it.”

The passion and fulfillment derived from contributing to the community radiates through his stories, encapsulating a lifetime dedicated to the pursuit of artistic excellence.

For those wanting to journey into the music industry, Mr Martin offers words of encouragement.

He invites individuals to simply walk in, express interest, and experience the warmth of the choir community. Describing it as a family-like atmosphere, he assures potential members that they will be welcomed and encouraged to sing along. With approximately 40-50 active participants, he emphasises that it is never too late to join and encourages interested individuals to explore more information on the Mackay Choral Society’s Facebook page.

Through his undeniable talent, gratitude and humbleness, OAM awardee Kenneth Martin, provides a glimpse into the profound impact of music on individual lives and communities.

His journey, marked by dedication, leadership, and a sense of belonging, shows the transformative power of artistic expression within Mackay. The Medal of the Order Australia serves as not only a personal honour but also a recognition of the collective efforts that have enriched the life of Mr Martin's musical success.

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Kenneth Martin, OAM award winner in rehearsal, 2016. Photo credit: Mackay Choral Society (Facebook)

Ken Martin playing the Major General in the The Pirates of Penzance, 2023

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The federal and state governments are upping the ante in the fight against the Red Imported Fire Ant, with the delivery of 150 frontline public sector positions to combat the invasive pest.

Public sector status for 150 positions, which previously would have been delivered through contract and labour hire arrangements, will ensure the National Fire Ant Eradication Program continues to retain and attract the best workers in field-based work and increased compliance monitoring.

In mid-2023 the Commonwealth and all State and Territory governments unanimously supported a new fire ant response plan, which aims to eradicate fire ants from Australia. 

As the key jurisdiction in the fire ant fight, the Queensland Government has provided $37.5 million to suppress fire ants in areas awaiting eradication treatment. 

Australia is the only country focused on eradication with the approach informed by a scientific advisory group consisting of international experts in their respective fields. 

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry of Australia Murray Watt said, “by strengthening the front line of eradication, we can continue the important fight against fire ants. 

“Without the National Fire Ant Eradication Program fire ants would now infest an area from Bowen in the north, west to Longreach and south to Canberra,” he said.

“By uniting to deliver a stronger workforce we can stop this invasive pest once and for all.”

AWU Queensland secretary Stacey Schinnerl added, “nobody knows more about the existential risk of the fire ant threat than frontline workers in the National Fire Ant Eradication Program.

“Over the past year, AWU members on the frontline have been campaigning for greater job security in the program.

“This is the kind of announcement that changes lives – quality public sector conditions deliver benefits like access to annual leave, better job security and easier access to bank loans.”

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As a leading force in Mackay’s local sugar industry, Mackay Sugar is proud to announce the successful recruitment of ten new and enthusiastic apprentices into its thriving workforce.

Mackay Sugar is already one of the largest employers in the Mackay region, employing as many as 1,000 people during the crushing season. This year’s apprentice intake marks yet another significant investment by Mackay Sugar to ensure the future of our region and industry, by fostering local talent right here in THE Sugar City.

The2024 apprentice intake highlights Mackay Sugar's commitment to act local, by helping to build a skilled workforce within Mackay that can navigate the challenges of a highly competitive, specialised and transforming sugar industry.

Spread across Mackay Sugar’s Farleigh, Marian, and Racecourse Mill sites, the ten new apprentices span three crucial trades, namely electrical, fabrication, and fitting. These trades enable Mackay Sugar to develop the diverse skill sets it needs for its operations, whilst ensuring the new apprentices still get to enjoy the benefits of going home after every shift.

Mackay Sugar’s Human Resources Manager, Heath Bonney said, "our apprentice program is seen as a critical tool to support the upskilling of our employees and succession planning for the future.

“In fact, many of our previous apprentices are still working within the business today, and some have even progressed to more senior roles throughout their career with us,” said Heath.

“At Mackay Sugar, our apprentices are rotated through different areas and Mills within our business and receive exposure to other disciplines such as Planning and Drafting whilst they’re learning their trade,” Heath explained.

“They also have the opportunity to work on personal development throughout the apprentice program, which is all aimed at assisting their personal growth and preparing them for permanent employment post their trade.”

Mackay Sugar's apprenticeship program is widely recognised as one that goes beyond skill acquisition to build lifelong pathways by developing future leaders in the sugar industry.

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Mackay Sugar’s 2024 apprentices. Back Row: Left to Right – Bailey McAuliffe, Darren Matthews, Kalan Morris, Oscar Warden, Tyrone Bovey, Logan Lawson Front Row: Left to Right – Joel McFarlane, Ashlee Turton, Amy Turner, Aurora Lenord-Selmes. Photo supplied

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The community of Sarina has been left reeling following last week’s announcement by the National Australia Bank (NAB) that it will be closing its Sarina Branch on Tuesday 23 April, claiming this is due to the majority of their customers changing the way they bank.

Federal Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry, said while numbers have increased in recent years for people using online banking, there are still many people in the Sarina community who prefer to do their banking face-to-face.

“Regional bank closures have an enormous impact on regional communities. I am disappointed to hear today another major bank will be shutting its doors to the community of Sarina.

“A great majority of the elderly aren’t computer savvy or don’t have family nearby to help them with online banking. Many also have a fear of making a mistake and losing their money or concerned about scams.

“I truly feel for the elderly and those who have no reliable transport who are now relegated to making an hour round trip to do their banking,” Ms Landry said.

In the past six years, more than 1200 bank branches have shut their doors to customers in Australia.

“Only 2 months ago, the NAB reported their profits hit $7.7 billion but are unable to keep a regional branch open for customers who prefer to do their banking in person.

“It is disheartening that NAB chose not to align with other banks by making a commitment to refrain from closing additional branches during the ongoing Senate Inquiry. This decision seems to demonstrate a lack of consideration for our regional communities,” Ms Landry said.

In a generic pamphlet announcing its Sarina branch closure, NAB said, “Closing a branch is always a difficult decision and we understand the change can be a big adjustment for some customers. Before the decision was made, we took a lot into consideration.

The bank shared that in 2023 more than 660 personal and 80 business customers used its branch more than 3 times, and around 140 customers were heavy users in that they visit more than 12 times per year.

There were also more than 3,800 personal cash withdrawals in the year.

The bank said for those customers still wanting to bank face-to-face the nearest branch would be located in Mackay. Many Sarina locals voiced their disappointment on social media, saying they would consider looking at alternative banking options that did still offer personalised service in Sarina.

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Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry and Neil Whiting

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Feeling the financial pinch with higher interest rates and the cost of living?

Putting off your health concerns and seeing your GP because of it?

Many patients’ health, especially those with chronic conditions like diabetes, arthritis, depression (that has lasted more than 6 months), have deteriorated after not seeing their GP during COVID.

Not seeing a GP means often ending up in the hospital system which could potentially have been avoided. Most GP practices now must charge an out-of-pocket gap fee to be able to pay their own bills - electricity, staff wages, rents etc. This on top of rising costs is having a greater toll on people's health than we realise.

So, what can you do to maximise your GP appointment and reduce the hit to your back pocket?

   1. Have a long-term GP or Practice – as it works out better in the long run for your health with studies proving you live longer with continuity of care.

   2. Ask your GP if you have a long-term illness if you are eligible for the government funded or subsidised GP Care Plans or annual Health Check (for First Nations and over 75’s) and assessments for adults between 45 to 49 years old or 40 if at risk of diabetes. These GP Care Plans allow you to see your GP team every 3 months, as well as 5 allied health visits too, for no out of pocket or usually very subsidised costs.

   3. If you haven’t been for a while - write down the current or past issues with your health you are worried about - the time it started, any treatments you tried (whether from a pharmacy, another GP, ED or complementary therapist or even your neighbour!) and all the symptoms and if increasing in frequency. 

   4. If you have a lot of issues to go through, your GP might not be able to do them all justice in a short appointment, so it’s often more cost effective to book a longer appointment straight up.

   5. Know how much out of pocket costs a GP consult will be prior to going there - and budget for your and your family’s health.

   6.  If you are having real financial difficulties, ask if the GP Practice has a payment plan which can make things easier to budget for.

Lastly, write to your local Federal member, we are not greedy GP's as some media might portray, there are less and less bulk billing practices due to the Medicare rebate to patients still not matching the costs of running a practice. The Government needs to prioritise primary health, after all, no one, not our admin staff, receptionists, nurses, cleaners, or GP's want to work and only get a third of their wage for their efforts. 

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Tech millionaire Bryan Johnson continues to back his $2M anti-aging lifestyle, known as 'Project Blueprint.', an attempt at reversing the aging process. 

He has made headlines over his controversial and unrelenting attempt to live forever and is referred to as a ‘Biohacker’. 

Fitness experts at SET FOR SET, predict that ‘Do-it-yourself biology’, also commonly referred to as ‘Biohacking’, will be one of the hottest trends for 2024. 

For those inspired by ‘Project Blueprint’, the experts at SET FOR SET have shared five ways you can ‘biohack’ to help contribute to a longer, healthier life.  

1) Ice cold plunge 

It is recommended to complete 11 minutes of cold-water exposure per week, which can be broken into three minutes per session.  

2) Optimise your sleep 

If you are getting around seven to nine hours of sleep a night, you will encourage muscle growth and repair, help keep your brain alert, improve your blood sugar levels, and even enhance your lifespan. 

3) Regular saunas 

Saunas, small rooms heated with hot air or steam, have cardiovascular health benefits. 

4) Breathwork 

With breathwork practice, the body can be trained to automatically control breathing and utilise it as a calming tool during times of stress. 

5) Red Light Therapy (RLT) 

Red light therapy (RLT) is a popular method used to optimize overall skin health. RLT also helps to boost muscle recovery, reduce pain and inflammation, support nervous system health, and generally increase energy levels. 

Always consult a health professional before trying any new form of diet or therapy.

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It’s back to school time and unfortunately for many school children (and their parents) it’s also the return of head lice.

It’s thought generally that between 20-30 per cent of primary school students are likely to get head lice at some stage. A single infested head can successfully infest a whole classroom and when the children return home, they often unwittingly pass the infestation on to the rest of the family.
 
The telltale signs to look out for in your child include if you notice them scratching, especially around the back of the neck and behind their ears.  
 
For treatment and detection look closely at your child’s hair to see if they have small, oval-shaped, white or brown-black nits attached to the root of the hair, near the scalp.
 
If you do see nits, you might also see live head lice. Live head lice move fast so to spot them you might have to part your child’s hair very quickly.
 
Once you have discovered head lice you will need get rid of them as quickly as possible.
 
This is where your local community pharmacy comes in which stocks special combs as well as shampoos and other products to treat head lice infestation.
 
There are chemical-based treatments available as well as a number of treatments which are based on essential oils such as anise, rosemary, lavender, and tea tree oil. There is also a range of herbal products.
 
Talk to your local pharmacist about what treatment is appropriate for your child and other family members if they are infested.
 
Whatever head lice treatment is chosen, a fine tooth comb is essential to get the nits out.
 
If live lice are found in the combings after treatment, it’s possible that the head lice are resistant to the particular product, and retreatment should begin as soon as possible with a product from a different active-ingredient group.   
 
If the lice are dead, treat again in seven days using the same product. If the treatment has worked, the lice will be dead within 20 minutes.
 
For more advice talk to your local community pharmacist.

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By The Pharmacy Guild of Australia

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Hello Everyone,

Well, our newspaper deadline day certainly got hectic this week with the announcement on Wednesday that Mayor Julie Hall will not be running in the upcoming Council elections.

It will be very sad to see her go as I think she’s done so much for the community, and it would have been exciting to see what she could have done with a full-term.

I do, however, completely understand that health and family come first – in fact, I believe they are the two most important things in life.

I will remember Mayor Julie Hall for her genuine affection, ability to show her vulnerable side and her commitment to being the voice of the people.

When she first started her term in August 2022, she invited me for a coffee and a chat.

We sat for about an hour at a little café in Proserpine and discussed how we could both work together.

One of her questions I will always remember – “how can we deliver more for you?”

And I think that is one of the overarching statements that typifies her tenure; she was always asking how Council could better serve the community, for that is really what Council are there to do.

Often, in this role I’d imagine it could be easy to fall into agenda or self-promotion, so it’s been fabulous to see that she continued the good work of Andrew Willcox in serving the community with integrity.

I hope the next Mayor, whomever he or she may be, serves with the same attitude and is able to really unite Councillors who can appear fractioned at times.

On the next page you will see that we’ve asked each Councillor whether they’ll be running for Mayor.

It’s certainly going to be an interesting few days while we wait to see who comes forward and if there are a couple of wild cards out there who might take us all by surprise!

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Rach

Quote of the Week: “As we look into the next century, leaders will be those who empower others” (Bill Gates)

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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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