More than thirty dedicated runners laced up their shoes and embraced the challenges of the Shawn’s Summer Social Series off-season program with the Mackay Road Runners, kicking off from the Blacks Beach Tavern car park. A special salute goes to Club Captain and Race Director, Jim Ford, whose ingenuity carved out a course encompassing flat and undulating roads, sandy stretches, challenging hills, and stairways that tested the mettle of each participant.

The 5km and 10km course, a two-loop journey, allowed runners to tailor their experience based on their individual capabilities for the day. Battling the relentless summer heat and humidity, all participants eagerly pushed themselves for the ultimate reward awaiting them at the finish line – the coveted zooper dooper. A heartfelt thank you goes to Col Meng, Alana and Adam Knesevic for generously providing the refreshing treats. Special appreciation also extends to Andrew Short for assisting Jim in the meticulous course set-up.

Outstanding performances lit up the track, with notable runs from Paul Mackenzie, Grant Holmstrom, Luke Leven, Alana Knesevic, Glynis Forse, Jose Short, Lily Leven, Tim Dalton, Ryan Evetts, Natasha Joynson, Kim Saron, Leanne Connor, Julie Whibley, Abbey-Jane Whibley, Lauren Connor, Carmel Mahon, Jo Hughes, and newcomer Todd Turner. Birthday celebrations were in order for David Isbister, who conquered a remarkable 5km alongside impressive runs from Daniel Stampa and Adam Knesevic, navigating the course with a double pram carrying Vivien and Harvey.

The excitement continues this Sunday with the #13 Shawn’s Summer Social Series event launching from the scenic Northern Beaches suburb of Bucasia. Runners and walkers are urged to assemble at the Bucasia Shopping Centre carpark by 5 pm, with the race set to commence at 5:15 pm sharp. Keep an eye out for the formal 2024 Club calendar/program on the website soon. The running community eagerly anticipates another exhilarating event as the series unfolds.

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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Champion veteran swimmer, Daniel Stampa also loves lacing up the running shoes.

Champion all-round cricketer, Ryan Evetts enjoys pounding the hilly Blacks Beach pavements.

New runner to the Shawn’s Summer Social Series, Todd Turner (left) gets a big welcome from the Mackay Road Runners.

Daughter and Mum Abbey-Jane and Julie Whibley enjoy a training run in the leadup to this year’s running goals.

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To the sound of a squeaky dog toy, I am writing this.

Our office dog (who doubles as Rachael’s pet pooch) has found a toy and is so excited that we may not exist in his world.

I also write this off the back of another Core Life Magazine deadline. During my time with this team, we have sent about six Core Life Magazine’s to print and each time is more exciting than the last. And then, when we receive the perfect finished copy, it is so exciting to flick through the pages and marvel at it.

It’s a little bit crazy to be in this world, where you can tangibly see all the hard work and effort that you’ve spent on this amazing project.

In other worlds, the sport club registrations are opening up, and are announcing their season dates, plus the annual Whitsunday Sports Expo, on February 3.

I’m playing with the idea of signing up for Netball again, just because I loved it last year and I met some great people, and it kicked off my exercise journey.

Before I moved here, I found it too cold to really get out on the courts (even though it was my childhood home town and I’d lived in the cold for upwards of 10 years), but relocating up here, I made it a priority to get out, join clubs and try and make some friends.

That being said, I also joined soccer at the beginning of summer, with the Summer Sixes, and I unexpectedly loved it. I hadn’t played soccer ever as a proper sport, only ever at university in college one-off competitions.

My team’s colour was fluro yellow, which really got some giggles in the office when I had to get changed at work for the 5.30 games.

While I would have wished for any other colour, I loved the game and loved the team I was placed with.

As someone who is still quite new to the area, what would you suggest I do, to get out and about, meet people and make friends?

Likeminded residents have rallied together, sending a truckload of material donations to flood affected communities in North Queensland.

Primarily for the smaller and remote communities of Rossville, Wujal, Helensvale and Bloomfield, Jenni Walters turned to Facebook to send out the call for donations.

Particularly asking for linens, towels, pillows, summer clothing, shoes, and home goods, including clothing racks and kitchen utensils, Jenni was inundated with locals wishing to donate.

Jenni does specify that no monetary donations are necessary as residents in these communities aren’t able to receive deliveries and the shops nearby are closed. Plus, food supplies have been delivered to these areas already, and residents are lacking with household goods.

The first truck will be making its trip to these communities next week, so any donations are welcome to be dropped off at Cartridge Universe in Stewart Drive, Cannonvale.

Jenni also sends her thanks to those have already donated and contributed to helping these affected communities.

One Rockhampton man’s pride and joy, a vintage 1974 Blue Holden HQ LS Monaro has been allegedly stolen from his property, striking a statewide search.

The vintage Monaro was safely stored away on John Moyle’s property at Struck Oil, near Mount Morgan, when on January 11, 2024, the car vanished.

John is the second owner of the original Monaro, and the car is in near perfect, original condition. He purchased the Monaro 40 years ago, and it’s his “Pride and Joy.”

“He is absolutely gutted,” Ben Moyle, John’s son, explained.

“People came onto the property from time to time and offered to buy the car, but no money could buy it off him.”

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John Moyle’s classic Monaro stolen in the night from his property. Image supplied

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Classic Car Stolen

Seen Travelling Through Proserpine

The 1974 Blue Holden HQ LS Monaro is in near perfect, original condition and is the prized possession of John Moyle.

He purchased the car 40 years ago, and religiously drove the vehicle up until the birth of his son, 20 years ago. From then, his father drove it up until his own death, and the Monaro has been parked in its spot since.

Now, 12 years on, John has continued to keep the car in pristine condition, with plans to begin working on it later this year, with his son, Ben Moyle, to turn it into a display club car.

“This was one thing that was keeping him going,” Ben Moyle explained.

In the early hours of January 11, 2024, the Monaro was allegedly removed from John’s property by a white Prado, which was then dumped 10 to 15 minutes down the road.

“Since then, it has been spotted being towed by a black Nissan Patrol,” Ben explained.

“Dad’s been offered prices for it, but thieves do what thieves do.”

The original vinyl roof has allegedly been removed, as too have the registration plates.

John reported the Monaro stolen to the police, and Ben turned to Facebook, however the post has since been shared across Australia, with running commentary in local community groups reporting sightings, including within Cannonvale and Proserpine.

One man, Kent Murray, has been sharing sightings, sharing that the Monaro was seen in Proserpine on Sunday, January 14, but wasn’t yet spotted in Home Hill that evening.

“It sticks out like a sore thumb,” Ben explained.

The Monaro has the original woodgrain dash and is one of allegedly only 400 produced in Australia, with some fetching prices upwards of $150,000.  

“We’ve reported to Police, but it seems like we’re doing more work than they are!” Ben said.

“We can watch it travel north on government cameras, but police just aren’t rocking up to catch the guys.

“It’s bullshit.

“This was well planned, by semi-smart people. They had the time and money to take the car and travel north with it. This is not their first rodeo.”

Ben believes it is now being hidden in Home Hill, with the perpetrators waiting for the media coverage to die down to continue their travels or list it for sale.

“The police have received reports of it going north, but they can’t seem to accept the help from the public,” Ben explained.

“It really shows that there are still good communities out there, sharing and helping us bringing the Monaro home.”

The Queensland Police have recently unveiled a new Stolen Vehicle Portal, allowing members of the community to access a comprehensive list of stolen vehicles in Queensland.

Community members are welcome to access the portal here: https://bit.ly/4b2D5N9

And in the case of a spotting of a stolen car, individuals are encouraged to report via Policelink on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

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The Monaro, seen being towed through Mackay.

The 1974 Holden Monaro stolen in the middle of the night. Photos supplied and Facebook

The Rotary Clubs of Airlie Beach and Proserpine have joined together to send one local youth to the National Youth Science Forum (NYSF) in Brisbane last week.

Holly Perrin, entering Year 12 in 2024 at Proserpine State High School, was selected for the nine-day science, technology, and engineering opportunity, and is jointly sponsored by Rotary Club of Airlie Beach and Proserpine.

NYSF is a great opportunity for young people looking to pursue a career in STEM to actively learn and engage with aspects of industry with likeminded youth and supportive teachers and supervisors.

For many years, Rotary Clubs of Airlie Beach and Proserpine have jointly sponsored local young people to attend the yearly forum.

“Whether it’s NYFS or another forum program, it is not easy for students in our area to participate,” explained Merewyn Wright, Rotary Club of Airlie Beach’s NYFS Coordinator.

“We always want to give students the opportunity to attend. STEM is the key area for the future, and we always want to support youth to attend, learn and grow.”

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Holly Perrin with Club President and Councillor Jan Clifford and Club Secretary and the club's NYSF coordinator Merewyn Wright. Photo supplied

As Australia Day draws nearer, Whitsunday Regional Council have released their nomination list for the 2024 Australia Day Awards Nominees.

These nominees represent the community and the spirit of our region, and their individual achievements and commitment to the Whitsundays is a testament to their individual compassion and respect, to their strength and ability to bring our community together and make it a better place for all.

Citizen of the Year sponsored by at Hotel Group

   • Rabia Morris

   • David Cooper

   • Tarnia Patton

   • Megan Taylor

   • Christine Hinschen

   • Kayne Fayolle

   • Rob Harris

   • Tina Everett

   • Ashleigh Thompson

   • Claire Mitchell-Must

   • Dr. Myint Soe

Young Citizen of the Year sponsored by Whitsunday Triathlon Club

   • Danzel Lewis

   • Skye Kennedy

   • Sam Rogers

Art and Cultural Award sponsored by Whitsunday Regional Council 

   • Sally Hannemann

   • Jahla Thompson

   • Betsy Atkinson

   • Kieran McCarthy

   • Gleezus: Teen Rock Band

Community Event Award sponsored by Whitsunday Triathlon Club & Environmental Award sponsored by Whitsunday Regional Council 

   • Proserpine Community Markets

   • Proserpine High School production - Sweet Charity

   • Bowen Community Sunday Markets

   • Proserpine Whitsunday Uniting Church Flower Show

   • The Baby Welcoming Ceremony - Bowen Lions Ladies

   • Airlie Beach Park Run

   • Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre - 2023 Program of Events

   • Whitsunday Conservation Council

Senior Sports Award sponsored by Whitsunday Triathlon Club

   • Kara Olver

   • Scott Boldy

   • Wayne Hinschen

   • Aimee Sulzberger

   • Leah Savelio

   • Tim Mcquoid Mason

Junior Sports Award sponsored by Whitsunday Triathlon Club

   • Wesley Homewood

   • Giselle Tronc

   • Jure Portelli

   • Jack Oberg

   • Jacob Bell

   • Hannah Moore

   • Zane Devine

   • Lillian Kelly

Wally Hinschen Volunteer of the Year Award sponsored by at Hotel Group

   • Jill Warren

   • Sabrina Mitchell

   • Steve Fraser

   • Camryn Fordham 

   • Kym Bates 

   • Sheryl Gordan

   • Raymond Wallace

   • Kylie Borellini

   • Susan Gravelle

   • Sandy Clark

   • Mark and Anne Steen

   • Dave Tindall

Whitsunday Regional Libraries’ new initiative is making waves, promoting reading to the region’s youngest with free reading resources.

Available at locations across the region, the Book Swap is primarily for young readers between the ages of zero to five.

Up to two books can be taken at a time, to be exchanged the next time families visit a Book Swap Box.

“The book swap boxes are part of Whitsunday Regional Libraries First 5 Forever literacy program,” explained Robyn Batman, Team Leader of Whitsunday Regional Libraries.

“And provide the opportunity for families visiting our community partners to access free books and information about library services. They are regularly restocked and maintained and can be found at the following locations.”

The carefully curated selection of books has been chosen to support early language skills and literacy development in the children at home.

Book Swap Locations:

Cannonvale

Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre

Whitsunday Community Health Clinic

Whitsunday Counselling and Support Service and Women’s Refuge

Proserpine

Child Health Clinic, Proserpine Hospital

Woodwark

Peak Body Mechanics Clinic

Bowen

Child Health Clinic, Bowen Hospital

54 Reasons Playgroup

Collinsville

Community Health Clinic, Collinsville Hospital

54 Reasons Playgroup

The Choose Collinsville Town Centre Upgrade has been officially opened at a special ceremony on Monday, January 15.

The Whitsunday Regional Council project began in July 2023 and was a part of the Collinsville Masterplan 2021 to beautify the community.

Completed in November 2023, the project was predominately undertaken by Council staff and was supported by the Australian Government’s Building Better Regions Fund.

Upgrades included new irrigated garden beds within the street, including plants and larger shade trees to help cool the street, new disabled car parks, in key locations, new furniture, including bin shelters, bench seats and bollards, new asphalt and reseal, line marking, and street print at entrances to Stanley Street, and new town map, including a history of Collinsville.

“Council looks forward to more rains this wet season that will help our shade trees and ground covers create a green and welcoming Stanley Street for residents and visitors,” a Council spokesperson explained.

“The upgrade has helped revitalise the feel in Stanley Street and aligns with Councils Main Street upgrades completed in Bowen, Proserpine, and Airlie Beach.”

Other projects completed from the Collinsville Masterplan 2021 include the waterpark, playground upgrades, town centre upgrade, pathway upgrades, town centre enhancement, tennis court refurbishment, rugby league club lighting and clubhouse upgrades.

Upcoming projects for Collinsville include the Darcy Munro Park Pump track, and further pathway upgrades to create pedestrian connectivity.

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CEO of Council, Warren Brunker, Councillor Michelle Wright, Mayor Julie Hall, and Acting Director Infrastructure Services, Michael Downing. Photo supplied

Community organisations in Bowen are cheering off the back of another successful Christmas and festival season appeal, providing close to 300 individuals and families of Bowen with access to presents, vouchers, and an abundance of toys.

A joint initiative with the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre, Cooinda Family Centre, Salvos, and Chayim Community Care, over 270 individuals and families were gifted access to Christmas Hampers, and a pop-up shop.

The Bowen Neighbourhood Centre also embarked on their Adopt a Family initiative, with local businesses donating vouchers and funds to support local families and individuals.

“Bowen Neighbourhood Centre was overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from local businesses eager to bring joy to families in need,” Stephanie Cora, Executive Officer of the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre explained.

“The local Business generosity, played a pivotal role in adopting 51 individuals and families, ensuring they experienced something truly special this Christmas.”

Ms Cora said a heartfelt thank you goes out to these businesses for their commitment to spreading Christmas cheer and making a positive impact in our community.

“The Bowen Community Centre extends its appreciation to Pacific National, Aurizon, Abbot Point Operations, Bowen Industrial Hire, Pat McDonald Earthmoving, and Zonta Bowen for their unwavering support and dedication,” she said.

Due to the overwhelming support, the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre was able to approach other community organisations, such as Relationship Australia, Whitsunday Counselling Services, Girudala Community Society Ltd, and Cooinda Family Centre, to nominate families they knew of.

Ms Cora also said that The Bowen Community Centre acknowledges the outstanding efforts of Mayor Julie Hall and Abbot Point Operation for swiftly stepping in to rescue 20 families that missed the hamper cut-off date.

“Their quick and compassionate response ensured that no family in our community was left without the joy of a Christmas celebration,” Ms Cora explained.

“As we reflect on the success of this year's Christmas Hampers, we are reminded of the incredible spirit of generosity and unity that defines our community. The Bowen Community Centre looks forward to building on this momentum, continuing to serve and uplift our community in the years to come.”

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Photos supplied

Whitsunday Water Police have made an impressive arrest at Peter Faust Dam during the first week of January.

Patrolling the waters to ensure the safety of every individual, including vessel operators, swimmers, fishers and jet-ski operators, water police intercepted a male operating an unregistered vessel.

However, Water Police uncovered a bigger mystery.

The male had fled the state approximately 26 years ago, in an alleged attempt to avoid an arrest warrant.

He had returned to Queensland to complete a holiday at Peter Faust Dam and was arrested finally.

Police allege the male was wanted on a warrant for failure to appear in court 26 years ago, on unrelated minor drug charged.

The now 51-year-old man was arrested and is expected to appear at Mount Isa Magistrates Court at a later date.

Bowen is hitting the big screen with District Crime Prevention Co-Ordinator, Sergeant Nigel Dalton sharing the town in a series of new videos, to attract seasoned Queensland police officers for a tree change.

Having completed similar internal promotions of the Northern Beaches of Mackay and attracting a number of existing Police Officers to relocate, Sgt Dalton was asked by Senior Sergeant Craig Shepard to create a similar video of Bowen.

“We’re looking to attract officers to this district, to Bowen. Often, officers in the South-East corner of Queensland are oblivious to the perks and attractions of Bowen and North Queensland, and this is one way we can promote the area as a great place to relocate and live,” explained Sgt Dalton.

The two videos, set to hit internal police communications in the coming weeks, showcases the reality of working in the modern and upgraded Bowen Police Station, and the beautiful way of life that officers can live while in Bowen.

“Ultimately, we can allow people to fall in love with Bowen, and relocate their family here for a number of years,” Sgt Dalton explained.

“Or, they can fall in love in Bowen, and meet a local, and settle down.”

While filming the videos, Sgt Dalton stopped in at the Big Mango, at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said it was a pleasure to talk to Sgt Dalton and provide him with promotional material and links to promotional videos that depict the beauty of Bowen and the great lifestyle it offers.

“Bowen offers a great lifestyle for families with secluded beaches, great bushwalks, a free water park, a free public swimming pool, the perfect climate and great country town hospitality,” she said.

“With playgrounds, parks, and plenty of open space as well as great beaches, there is so much to do for the kids.

“Bowen is one of the few places in Queensland where you can snorkel directly off the beach.”

Sgt Nigel explained, “Creating these videos and enticing officers to Bowen is just a different way for us to help our district.”

Once the videos are shared across police channels, it may be as soon as six weeks to see new faces at Bowen Police Station.

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Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy with District Crime Prevention Co-Ordinator, Sergeant Nigel Dalton at the Big Mango. Photo: Bowen Tourism and Business

Australia’s largest powered catamaran is cruising into the Whitsundays, opening up more channels for visitors to experience the Whitsundays like never before.

The Aquila 54 Power Catamaran boasts unparalleled luxury, with over 54 feet of comfort and with upgraded 480 hp Volvo Penta D8 diesel inboards, this beast boasts a cruising speed of 8 to 10 knots, and top speeds of 22 knots.

Offered for private bareboat charter through Cumberland Charter Yachts and Luxury Yachts Whitsundays, the Aquila 54 is challenging what it means to travel in comfort and style.

The largest powered catamaran available for self-skipper, the Aquila 54 joins the Cumberland Charter fleet alongside the Leopard 58 sailing catamaran, the largest powered sailing catamaran available in Australia.

General Manager of Cumberland Charter Yachts and Luxury Yachts Whitsundays, Simon Summerton expresses excitement about the addition, stating “We are thrilled to introduce the Aquila 54 to our fleet, further enhancing our ability to cater to the diverse preferences of our clients.”

“The combination of the Leopard 58 and the Aquila 54 establishes us as the one-stop destination for those seeking top-tier, premium self-skippered charters in the Whitsundays,” he said.

Tourism Whitsundays CEO, Rick Hamilton is excited for the new addition to Cumberland Charter Yachts' fleet and the additional holiday experience for visitors to the region. 

"Imagine cruising the Whitsundays in the largest self-skippered power catamaran, experiencing unparalleled luxury and freedom at your own pace. This isn't just a boat, it's a gateway to unforgettable memories in one of the most stunning destinations on Earth,” Mr Hamilton said.

“And Cumberland Charter Yachts, with their renowned expertise, are the perfect operators to bring this incredible experience to life.”

Bowen is hitting centre stage, hosting the 2024 Whitsunday Regional Council Australia Day Celebrations, Awards and Citizenship Ceremony.

As the festivities on Bowen’s Front Beach are being held from 5pm until 8pm on a public holiday, Bowen is the perfect place to spend the day before heading to the ceremony.

The Bowen Visitor Information Centre will be open on Australia Day from 10.30am until 3pm.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said a day trip to Bowen could include a selfie at the Big Mango, a delicious sorbet at the Visitor Information Centre, a swim and a snorkel at Horseshoe Bay (stinger suit recommended) and a walk to Rotary Lookout.

“As the council has just upgraded the Edgecumbe Bay Walking Trail, you are encouraged to check out the great views from Mother Beddock and the World War II radar site along the walk.

“If you are interested in birdlife, more than 175 species of birds have been spotted at Muller’s Lagoon.

“You can learn all about Catalina Flying Boats at the display near the Front Beach.

“You can also check out the 27 murals around the town.

“A late afternoon stroll along Bowen’s Historic Jetty could top off a perfect day prior to the Australia Day ceremony on the foreshore.”

A new article series in partnership with the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry, showcasing the diverse businesses in our community.

Ellen Farquhar started Cannonvale-based Your Mind Reset in 2023, delivering Mental Health First Aid training and Tuning in to Teens program for parents.

"I am passionate about fostering well-being and resilience in individuals and communities," said Ellen, who is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Psychology and Diploma of Counselling.

It has been reported 43 per cent Australians aged 16 - 85 encountered a mental disorder at least once in their lives, with 21 per cent experiencing a disorder within the past year.

Work-related stress affects 32 per cent Australians impacting sickness, absenteeism, and capacity. Accredited Mental Health First Aid training has been instrumental in cultivating mentally healthy workplaces.

Mental health issues among school-aged children is also on the rise.

"I engage with parents who grapple with the best approach to support a child displaying signs of mental illness, offering education and support to help navigate these complex situations," said Ellen, mother of four school-aged boys.

Ellen also volunteers, facilitating programs for CORES (Community Response to Eliminating Suicide) Australia.

As a Whitsundays business owner, Ellen offers these tips to other businesses:

"Prioritise your community and support other local businesses, including your competitors.

"Be authentic. Be you. Regularly revisit your 'why' and reconnect with that fire in your belly so you remember who you are and why you are in business. 

"Know your target customer. If you try to help everyone, you will end up helping no one."

As a Chamber member, Ellen has found the support, connections, and opportunities outstanding. She participated in the 2023 Certificate IV in Entrepreneurship program delivered in partnership by TAFE Queensland, the Chamber, and Whitsunday Regional Council.

What is your role at Tourism Whitsundays? 

As the Digital and Marketing Coordinator, I am responsible for our website and social media platforms. This role involves a significant amount of behind-the-scenes work, through which I have greatly expanded my knowledge in website development over the past year.  

What is your ideal weekend in The Whitsundays? 

My ideal weekend in The Whitsundays is full of relaxation. Starting with a walk along the boardwalk, enjoying the morning sun. Pulling into one of the many cafés for breakfast. Getting out on the water, maybe doing a spot of fishing or island hopping. Then ending with a nice dinner and some drinks with friends. Simple, but relaxing! 

How long have you been in The Whitsundays? 

2 years. It's my early seachange, coming from Brisbane and Toowoomba, The Whitsundays is very different and such a special place.  

What's the one thing about The Whitsundays you think everyone should know? 

That we have one of the world’s only underwater accommodations! You can sleep with the fishes and live to tell the tale.