Taking out top spot for 4 to 4.5 Star Deluxe Accommodation at the 2023 Tourism Awards was the elegant and sleek Mirage Whitsunday.

Recognisable in the region as one of the most luxurious up-market accommodations, this accolade joins the trophy cabinet of consistent annual wins for Mirage Whitsundays.

“It’s a spectacular feeling, to come away from the night with this win,” explained General Manager of Mirage Whitsundays, Michael Quigley.

In fact, this is the sixth year in a row that Mirage Whitsundays has taken the top spot in this category.

“And before that, in 2018, Mirage was inducted into the Hall of Fame, as we had won Gold for 4 to 4.5 Star Deluxe Accommodation for consecutive years,” Michael said.

“But our win is a massive team effort, particularly from our housekeeping team. We have an entire team of about 40, and most of them are housekeepers.

“Our housekeepers ensure the best first impression to our guests, for when they check into a room, and their work is invaluable and impeccable.”

Within their submission for the category, Michael explained that almost every aspect of the hotel was drawn into the awards.

“We covered a little bit of everything. We covered everything from sentiment to accessibility claims to improvements, and absolutely everything in between.”

Coming away with this award puts Mirage Whitsundays into the annual Queensland Tourism Awards, where Michael and his team are excited to see how their accommodation ranks.

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Michael Quigley (GM), Jasmine Sayers (Housekeeping Manager), Rachel Jepsen (Housekeeping Supervisor), Ruby Boyd (Housekeeping Team Leader, Brian Russell (Grounds and Maintenance Attendant). Photo credit: R Jean Photography

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In another massive night for local small business, Scamper, Whitsunday Island Camping Connections proved nature and adventure are the back bone to success, taking away two awards and a finalist position.

Sarah Vickery, Manager of Scamper Island Camping and Whitsunday Water Bikes shared her excitement for the team achieving the award placements.

“We were so amazed to even get mentioned, let alone win awards. Our team is only small as we are a family owned and operated business, but all three of our staff were so thrilled to have won, and it has pushed us to want to do more.”

Coming home with a silver award in Ecotourism and a bronze in Adventure Tourism, Scamper have been recognised for their progressive conservationism of the Great Barrier Reef and regions.

“Our business is different to the operators in the area, which we love,” explained Sarah.

“We have focused on nature-based tourism, but for people to explore at their own pace and really getting to see the natural side of the islands.

“With our camping transfers, people get to spend time at the iconic Whitehaven Beach, without all the tourists, they get to explore bushwalking trails to breathtaking lookouts, where most tours don’t go, and snorkel all day long if they want to,” Sarah explained.

The team also were named finalist in the category Tour and Transport Operator.

“When we are given a location like this, it’s easy to be a tourism destination,” Sarah said.

“A massive congratulations to all the other winners, the effort you put in is surely recognised and we are so proud to work alongside you all in making this the best destination, the beautiful Whitsundays.”

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The Scamper team on awards night. Photo credit: R Jean Photography

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The 82-strong team at BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort are celebrating this week following their incredible achievements at the Whitsunday Tourism Awards where they scooped up three top gongs across three highly acclaimed categories.

Cementing its 30th year in business with another impressive round of accolades, this iconic Whitsunday resort won gold in the ‘Caravan and Holiday Parks’ and ‘Accessible Tourism’ categories, while also scooping the consumer-voted ‘People’s Choice Award for Accommodation’ at the gala industry awards.

This is not the first time this family-owned business has brought home awards, in fact, for many years the McKinnon family have achieved top gongs, most notably their gold wins at the Australian, Queensland, and Whitsunday Tourism Awards in 2022.

Resort CEO Phil Casey, who attended the 2023 Whitsunday Tourism Awards with some of the resort’s team, accepted the three gongs on behalf of the McKinnon family and staff.

“We are incredibly proud to have won these three awards, each on their own merit,” he said.

“It truly is a reflection of the hard work, passion and dedication of our team, who all work together to make the magic happen.

“From exceptional customer service, quality accommodation and facilities, through to our ongoing development and accessible facilities, we offer a true Australian family holiday for everyone.

“As a team, we have to say thank you to the Whitsunday tourism industry and the entire community for supporting us over the years, and most importantly, our guests, many who continue to choose our resort as their holiday destination of choice time and again.”

“We also extend our congratulations to all the other entrants, finalists, and winners. The Whitsunday region should be so proud of the many offerings we have available, in one of the most naturally beautiful environments in the world.

“To our industry partners, and particularly Tourism Whitsundays, we truly appreciate everyone’s hard work in promoting and celebrating this wonderful destination.”

With innovation and continual advancement at the forefront of the business for BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort, it is no wonder they continue to kick goals this year.

Seven new cabins have been added to the inventory and the construction of its 71-bed “Bunk House” quality dormitory accommodation, enhances its offering to the Edutoursim and groups market, in particular school groups.

Additionally, with this year being the Year of Accessible Tourism in Queensland, BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort has also had a strong focus on improving its accessible needs, including new developments for the vision impaired and those with mobility issues, while also complementing its well-utilised Sensory Room, which caters for children on the autism spectrum and their families by offering a special holiday retreat.

The resort has become synonymous with offering the very best Australian holiday experience. Loved by return guests for their consistently friendly service, concerted customer focus and commitment to continual improvement and innovation, the resort is the first choice for a Queensland holiday.

With its 10 hectares of beautifully landscaped tropical gardens, over 15 onsite activities including a big, huge, mega waterslide park, lagoon style pool, mini golf, outdoor cinema, and Kid’s Club, it is easy to see how this award-winning destination truly shines both locally and nationally.

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Tiffany Brett, Adam Buttel, Sandy Halstead, Phil Casey, Storm Tebbutt, Zoe Wallen, Rory Saint and Jess Fairhall. Photo credit: R Jean Photography

A mega waterslide park is the central attraction for families from across the country. Photos supplied

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Adding to their awards cabinet once again this year, the team at Accom Whitsundays are thrilled to take home Silver in the Self-Contained Accommodation category at the Whitsunday Tourism Awards.

This is the third year they have achieved an award in this category, receiving the silver award in 2019, a bronze last year and stepping it back up to a silver award again this year.

“It was such a great moment for the team!” said Annette Neil, CEO of Accom Whitsundays.

“It is a nice feeling when all the hard work we have put in over the last year pays off.”

A holiday accommodation provider that specialises in offering clients the full service, from management to booking and housekeeping, Accom Whitsundays are the go-to for vacation homes here in the Whitsundays.

Their professionalism and high-quality service has garnered them with a reputation for smooth and efficient dealings with both guests and investors.

“We are unique in that we offer a complete management service, not just a booking agent,” said Annette.

“We also now have a housekeeping team, and we have an internal quality controller.”

Providing peace of mind for holiday homeowners, Accom Whitsundays ensures that each customer’s investment not only generates a solid and steady income but is also safely looked after as if it were their own.

When asked what qualities they believe Tourism Award judges looked for in their submission, Annette said that they had been driving forwards in marketing.

“Throughout the year we have been constantly implementing new marketing strategies,” she explained.

“And now it has resulted in financial and portfolio growth, and customer satisfaction which is evidenced through our countless positive google reviews.

“I am very proud of all the staff and the wonderful team.”

Accom Whitsundays is part of the broader PRD Whitsunday network and the standards of service, quality delivery and management are aligned across both successful local businesses.

“We are a small team, and everyone in the team has contributed to the success,” said Annette.

“Using each other’s strengths to maximise our potential.

“What is unique is that people outside our team, in PRD Whitsundays, can step in when needed, so we always have someone that has our back.”

Always looking ahead to more success, the team at Accom Whitsundays are excited to enter the awards next year, aiming to bring back the top gong in 2024.

“It would be incredible to bring home gold next year, and we are definitely always aiming for that!” said Annette.

“We are, however, extremely proud to win silver and would like to thank all our industry peers, congratulate the other winners and celebrate our broader tourism industry.”

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Priding itself on delivering high quality health food to the Whitsundays, Airlie Health Hub has been recognised for its exceptional sustainable practices, leading the way as Most Outstanding Whitsundays Retailer at the Whitsunday Business Awards.

Held in conjunction with the Whitsunday Tourism Awards, the Whitsunday Business Awards celebrates local businesses and spotlights high achievers.

Owners of Airlie Health Hub, Hayley and Paul Moran said they were over the moon to be acknowledged amongst their peers as one of the industry leaders.

“We were absolutely speechless!” said Hayley.

“Unfortunately, we were unable to attend the awards and were eagerly watching the results through the Tourism Whitsundays Facebook page.

“I can’t begin to explain the excitement that came when we saw our name come up and messages started to come through from friends and industry partners that were at the awards.”

Airlie Health Hub have been operating for 19 months and during that time they have completely revolutionised the local health food retail offering.

“We specialise in Organic and Local health foods, from bulk foods to produce straight from our local farms,” explained Hayley.

“Being a bulk food store, our foods are package free meaning you can get as little or as much as you like.”

Specialising in all things health, the store offers a range of products, from organic food to products for the skin or household cleaning, everything is free from harmful chemicals.

“We stock a large arrangement of organic food, health supplements and eco essentials to help you live a more sustainable life,” said Hayley.

“We live and breathe what our store stands for and I think that helps because the passion comes naturally.”

Every element of the service is designed with sustainability in mind, from the way food items are unpacked to sourcing local products where possible, Airlie Health Hub is dedicated to supporting organic practises which help to rejuvenate the land and benefit soil health.

Every time you purchase a natural or organic item from Health Hub you will also be helping the environment by using a recycled jar or bottle with which to transport your produce home.

Wicker shopping baskets are available to borrow in-store and they supply a collection of donated jars and bottles that can be used to store your purchased goodies.

With over 300 products in stock, you can choose from pantry staple items, dried fruits, nuts, pulses, superfoods, spices, flours, rice pastas and dairy products.

They also stock locally baked artisan sourdough bread, fresh eggs direct from local farms, a range of other pantry items and completely natural cleaning products.

Airlie Health Hub can also help you live a preservative free life by replacing your favourite family food items with equally delicious alternatives.

From peanut butter to confectionary and cereals, they offer organic goodness with taste satisfaction every time.

If you are looking to live a more sustainable lifestyle, you can trust that Airlie Health Hub will offer you the quality products and standard of service aligned with its new mantle, Most Outstanding Whitsundays Retailer of the Year.

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Hayley and Paul Moran celebrated their first year in business this January. Photo: Norina Jane

High quality organic health foods delivered in a sustainable setting at Airlie Health Hub. Photos supplied

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Quintessential Bowen business, Bowen Fisherman’s Seafood and Bird’s Fish Bar has taken out the coveted Bowen Business of the Year award.

Owner and operator Chloe Bauer was overwhelmed with the award win, especially given this was the first year they had participated.

“This was our first year we entered the awards, and we are ecstatic!” she said.

“And extremely grateful.”

Unsure about what particular aspect of their submission secured the win, Chloe is excited to accept the accolades with open arms.

Steeped in Bowen town history, Bowen Fisherman’s Seafood was established in 1982, and has continued to be family owned and operated.

Undergoing major renovations in 2013, the business expanded, with Bird’s Fish Bar being welcomed into the mix.

“This third generation run business has a deep passion for Bowen, promoting our beautiful area and the seafood industry,” said Chloe.

“Offering a unique dining experience of ‘boat to plate’ that you can’t find anywhere else in the region has been a huge contribution to Bowen Tourism.”

“We pride ourselves on using local produce and supporting small businesses. We are fortunate enough to have direct access to some of the best seafood in the world and have been a strong advocate for the fishing industry. We’re always looking at giving back to the community and are heavily involved with local sporting clubs, community events and supporting local fundraisers.”  

Chloe also wishes to thank the team that guaranteed their win.

“We are incredibly grateful for every single person in our team. We have a passionate and diverse team who I’m incredibly proud of and I genuinely enjoy working alongside.”

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Owner and operator of Bowen Fisherman’s Seafood and Bird’s Fish Bar, Chloe Bauer, with the award for Bowen Business of the Year. Photo credit: R Jean Photography

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Synonymous with quaint and comfortable perfection, Magnums Accommodation Airlie Beach took out three massive awards at the 2023 Whitsunday Tourism Awards, last Friday night.

Committed to providing a budget traveller with a special experience, Magnums Accommodation Airlie Beach, has become a calling card to all travellers and locals alike.

“Magnums is Airlie Beach’s original accommodation provider,” explained Magnums Accommodation Executive Chairperson, Elizabeth Hackett.

“Magnums Accommodation has been owned and operated by a group of truly committed and experienced tourism advocates. We place great importance on customer service and leaving a legacy for future generations. We are strongly committed to our environment and our community.”

With an extensive history in Airlie Beach, it is no wonder that Magnums came home with three massive awards last weekend.

Coming out top for the Whitsunday Business Awards, Magnums is officially the 2023 Whitsunday Business of the Year as well as Most Outstanding Whitsunday Booking Service.

The high-quality accommodation provider also received a gold gong at the Tourism Awards, having been crowned gold winner in 3 to 3.5 Star Accommodation category.

“The team have worked so hard post-COVID to reinvent ourselves and to be recognised as benchmark operators amongst so many other industry ambassadors. It was just so rewarding!” said Elizabeth.

“Life is a journey, it is our responsibility to ensure that this journey is improved for all who work and visit us at Magnums Airlie Beach”.

“At Magnums, we understand that we can do the best job in the world but without a strong RTO, a committed CEO and Board and a local Council who understands the importance of tourism, we would simply not be here.”

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The Magnums Accommodation Airlie Beach team accepting their awards last Friday night. Photo credit: R Jean Photography

From left to right: Dianne Flood, Evelyn Anderson (Executive Manager), Elizabeth Hackett (Executive Chairperson) and Julie Young

Pit Pony Tavern has come home from the 2023 Tourism Awards with the coveted Collinsville Business of the Year award.

Janet Lobegeier, manager of the Pit Pony Tavern was excited to be named winner.

“It is always exciting to have your hard work recognised,” she said.

“Everyone here at the Pit Pony plays a role in making the hotel a successful business.”

However, this isn’t the first time Pit Pony Tavern has been recognised for their outstanding work, being Winner of Large Business in 2016, and Queensland Hotel Association Finalist in 2022.

“The team at Pit Pony Tavern always provides great service clean and affordable accommodation for guests and locals,” explained Janet.

Janet would like to thank the entire team of Pit Pony Tavern for their hard work.

“The whole team plays a role in making us successful from junior kitchen hands, housekeeping to our amazing restaurant and bar staff.”

Having been operating for over 30 years, the initial 25 as Collinsville Town and Country Hotel, and the most recent nine years as Pit Pony Tavern, the Tavern is steeped in Collinsville history.

“We are the only hotel in Collinsville, with 52 accommodation rooms, restaurant and public Bar, and Keno TAB Gaming,” said Janet.

“The hotel had a full refurbishment nine years ago changing its name and identity, and the hotel also has Pit Pony Memorabilia throughout the restaurant, telling the story of the Pit Ponies in mining.”

“Come and take a drive out, stay a night, enjoy great service, and check out the town’s history, at Pit Pony Capital.”

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Nigel and Janet Lobegeier from the Pit Pony Tavern. Photo supplied

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In a clean sweep this year, Queens Beach Tourist Village has taken out silver in the Caravan And Holiday Parks category.

Owner and operator Jennie Greer was ecstatic at the win.

“It doesn’t matter what colour the award is, we won, and it feels absolutely amazing. We’re over the moon.”

“Of course, this result is because of our amazing staff. We are proud of every single staff member,” Jennie said.

“This award is a testament to the care, dedication, and passion that our staff have, and who make the impact for guests and the park.”

Jennie and her husband Peter took on the park in January 2019 and have since been implanting upgrades and changes to the park, to ensure guest satisfaction and enjoyment.

This was a big part of their submission for the awards.

“We covered everything but particularly the improvements that we have made to the park. We are consistently looking at what can be improved and upgraded in the park,” she explained.

“We also shared our charity work that we have done, particularly with Bowen Country Women’s Association. Not only did our charity work have a great result, but we had a lot of fun doing it. We enjoy putting back into the community, and so many businesses got involved and had fun with us.

“But, if it wasn’t for the guests getting behind us, the charity work wouldn’t have been as successful.”

The park now turns their attention to the 2023 Grey Nomad Awards, where they have been successful for the past few years taking out the Best Grey Nomad Large Caravan Park award.

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Peter and Jennie Greer, and Gerry and Mark Tomsett. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge

By Amanda Wright

Picture this: a community coming together to champion equal access to top-notch healthcare. In a world where our health knows no bounds, last Thursday marked an extraordinary act of unity, as Mackay Hospital Foundation's Giving Day rallied the masses.

The mission was crystal clear: bridge the healthcare gap and ensure every family's health journey knows no disadvantages based on their postcode.

With the team from Gardian among many individuals generously donating their time, the telethon event commenced at 8am. With coffee and croissants in hand, by 8pm the fundraising target of $70,000 was impressively surpassed, with the campaign reaching more than $95,000, thanks to the passionate community including Giving Day’s ‘matched donors’.

Bridging Healthcare Gaps With Giving Day

Mackay Hospital Foundation’s Giving Day event welcomed Dylan Holmes as its ambassador. Dylan's presence added a powerful, real-world dimension to the proceedings. At the age of 42, and with no prior symptoms, he experienced a sudden cardiac arrest. The presence of a defibrillator at his workplace and the quick action of his colleagues and paramedics were the key factors behind this success story, underscoring the pivotal role that hospitals like Mackay Base play in providing life-saving care.

Dylan acknowledges that his survival on that day was the result of the combined efforts of his workmates at Jennmar Australia, the Queensland Ambulance team who were soon on site and the Mackay Base Hospital’s emergency, cardiac and intensive care teams who provided surgery and follow-up care.

Mackay Base Hospital Cardiologist Dr Dominika Budzbon spoke at the Giving Day breakfast and said that Mr Holmes’ cardiac arrest was caused by very fast and abnormal heart rhythm.

“After a period of stabilisation in hospital, we decided he needs protection from any possible event like that in the future.”

Dr Budzbon explained that Mr Holmes became the first patient in Mackay to receive an implant of a subcutaneous defibrillator (ICD).

“This is a clever and highly programmable processor which recognises dangerous heart rhythms and works out what to do with it,” Dr Budzbon said.

“It is suitable for patients who only need a device to shock the heart, and do not need the support of a pacemaker as well.”

Matched donors on Giving Day, playing a vital role, generously contributed to the cause. Notable contributors included Anglo American and Isaac Regional Council, with additional support from CFMEU, Mackay Base Hospital Auxiliary, Pembroke Olive Downs, Abbot Point Terminal, and Sons of the Southern Cross Motorcycle Club. Adding to this spirit of generosity were other donors, such as Mackay West Rotary Club, M & P Services, and the Austral Hotel, who had pledged their support in advance.

Local radio stations, Star 101.9 and Hit FM, actively joined in, lending their voices to further amplify the event's community appeal. Kristi Algate, General Manager of the Mackay Hospital Foundation, urged the community to embrace generosity and highlighted the importance of making healthcare a universal right, irrespective of regional or rural location.

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Matched donors, sponsors and members of the Mackay Hospital Foundation gathered to launch Giving Day with a breakfast at Mackay Base Hospital. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

Mackay Hospital Foundation donors and supporters at the Giving Day Breakfast at Mackay Base Hospital. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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This year, Nell Thomsett’s daughter Millie spent two weeks at Mackay Base Hospital on two separate occasions. If it wasn’t for the Ronald McDonald House (RMH) Family Room, this challenging time would have been more of a struggle.

Diagnosed with a kidney infection, Millie ended up staying five nights in hospital during her first visit. Amidst the difficulties, the Ronald McDonald Family Room at Mackay Base Hospital played a pivotal role in alleviating the burden for Ms Thomsett, Millie, and their entire family.

Nell expressed her gratitude, saying, "It was just amazing. My husband would bring the kids up at night after they had finished work and sport. We were able to eat as a family and spend time together. I was able to see our other two kids, and they were able to see their sister."

In a horror health year for the youngster, she also got appendicitis resulting in the removal of her appendix.

Last week, it was noticed by the pair that RMH was reaching out to the community for donations. Nell says, “Millie popped up and said: ‘Can we go shopping for them, please?’”

The pair filled their trolley with an array of groceries to help families in need, including brownie mix, cooking trays, coffee, snacks and treats and gluten-free items. Nell mentioned that Millie hand-picked everything from the supermarket herself.

The items are stored away until a family comes in to stay and they can use the items.

“The space is run by volunteers who are just lovely, they help you in any way they can. They were very thankful, as the stocks were running low,” Nell added.

Nell and Millie encourage the community to become volunteers or donate towards the Ronald McDonald House charity, who provide a nice place to escape to that doesn’t feel like a hospital.

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Millie with her haul of groceries for RMH – Photo supplied

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OPINION PIECE

It was a historic day last week, as Australians went to the polls for a vote to change the constitution for the first time since 1999.

The people have spoken, and their collective voice resonates, clear and unwavering. As the referendum on the Voice to Parliament concludes, the result was no, for the voice of the people is a cornerstone of democracy. Every state and territory, except for the ACT, voted no.

It appeared to be a widely understood sentiment that while the nation may not be prepared for this particular step, the will to improve the wellbeing of First Nations peoples remains strong.

My personal opinion was that the Federal Government failed to fully educate the Australian people about what they were voting for. Too many people were confused about what a Yes would mean and there were complex issues muddying the waters. The Prime Minister, or any politician, chose not to appear in our neck of the woods to talk about the Voice and our publication didn’t receive any correspondence from the Federal Government to assist our readers. I think it’s failed marketing to ignore your regional constituents and believe that endorsements by big business or celebrities can influence everyday people into changing the constitution. It’s like asking someone to sign a contract without letting them read it first.

In the wake of the referendum outcome, Beyond Blue Chair Julia Gillard, reflected on the importance of this moment for Australia. First Nations peoples experience significantly higher rates of psychological distress and suicide. Regardless of how we voted as individuals, it is essential to remember that the referendum outcome may be distressing for many. It’s a time to be kind.

The Uluru Statement from the Heart extends an invitation to walk hand-in-hand with First Nations peoples toward a brighter future. Regardless of our individual experiences and views, it is through the values of fairness and respect that we can truly unite as one nation.

Amanda

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This month, Orange Sky Laundromat celebrated the OSA laundry services’ six-year anniversary operating in Mackay and Sarina.

The delivery of the service has changed in that time, but the community connections and need for positive conversations has only grown over the years.

The United Apostolic Volunteer Foundation’s mission is ‘Giving Hope, Sharing Grace’, with their members actively committed to giving assistance and compassion to those in need.  

UAVF supports many different groups, suffering does not discriminate and actions speak louder than words. All projects are assessed purely on the foundation’s ability to deliver the relief required, and the team endeavour to undertake projects that enable long term viability, and ultimately independence for those being supported.

The foundation held their Family Trivia fundraising event, to support local charity, Orange Sky, as well as two of their international projects, Ukrainian Humanitarian Aid and Kenyan Children in Need.  

Whilst there was some competitive team spirit for the trivia prizes, the generosity of the community in donating prizes and that of the participants bidding on auction items and other fundraising activities on the day, was phenomenal.

All money raised was donated to the charities, with Orange Sky as a major beneficiary, receiving an eleven thousand dollar donation to support the growth of services in Mackay and Sarina.

UAVF members, Lyle and Alan visited Orange Sky to meet the volunteers, who shared their gratitude for the donation they received.

With appreciation for UAVF for their generous support to the growth of Orange Sky services, Bev, the Trivia Team Captain, presented them with an appreciation certificate.

There is still a growing need for services, but it is something that Orange Sky couldn’t deliver without support from the wider community.

To volunteer, donate or find out more about Orange Sky, visit their website at orangesky.org.au

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Orange Sky and The United Apostolic Volunteer Foundation unite to celebrate six years of dedicated service

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Meet Nicole Pasquale, Leader in Community Education and Disaster Preparedness

Deputy Group Leader of the State Emergency Service Mackay Regional Unit, Nicole Pasquale, assists with community education and disaster awareness events.

Nicole is a teacher by trade when she is not donning the orange, working for three high schools around the Mackay region.

A couple of years ago, Nicole, alongside her colleagues JoAnn, Brenton and Jody, began an educational video series for their Facebook page to inform the community about preparing for storm season.

Since then, the series has gained major traction. This allowed the team to make videos regularly, with SES groups across Queensland now using the videos to help with their own promotion and community awareness.

“The videos have been received very well. Some have mentioned that they've been able to do things for themselves, which is really good because that's what we're aiming for,” Nicole stated.

Nicole’s favourite videos to film were the originals, when the teams’ acting skills were a little rusty and scripts were a work-in-progress, with blooper reels to enjoy the humour behind serious topics.

The next videos will feature cyclone preparation tactics and information on a new mentorship initiative, allowing volunteers to work with flood boats.

Nicole was a victim of Cyclone Debbie, before she became a volunteer. This event encouraged her passion to give back to the community in ways she couldn’t previously.

“I cleaned up my school, cleaned up my house. I couldn't do any more to help the community because I just didn't have any training to be able to help out that way.

“The skills are things you can put into action yourself, as well as when you're out in the community which is just amazing,” Nicole said.

Nicole has trained in a variety of areas. Her favourite skills she has learnt so far is operating a flood boat and trailer reversing, both in which she had never done prior to her SES training.

Recently, Nicole was awarded a Runner Up plaque for the Ministers Cup in Brisbane, which she was anonymously nominated for.

Nicole’s favourite part of being a member of the SES? ‘Friendship with like-minded volunteers, teamwork, and camaraderie.’

To prepare yourself for storm season, check out Nicole’s work in creating these educational videos at facebook.com/mackaySES

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Nicole Pasquale alongside the Public Education Unit

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In the latest session of Parliament, Andrew Willcox, the Federal Member for Dawson, delivered an impassioned speech addressing the actions of the Federal Government. His speech primarily centred on the recent ban imposed on commercial gillnet fishing, sparking profound concern.

With frustration, the MP vehemently voiced his worries about the Federal Government's actions, emphasising the detrimental impact on the livelihoods and economic prospects of more than 90 licensed fishermen in the North Queensland region.

Mr. Willcox highlighted the lack of community consultation and hasty decision-making. He pointed out, "In June, a joint media release from the Federal and Queensland Governments declared their intention to ban gillnet fishing with no community input and extremely tight deadlines. This ban is slated to take effect by the end of the year."

Mr Willcox also questioned Parliament about the effects on the communities, detailing that it’s not just the fishermen’s lives who would be negatively impacted.

“As we know, the fishermen operate in a tough environment, out in the sun and out in the salt. So, they need a lot of shackles, ropes, floats, anchors, all those sorts of things. Without this, the chandlery shops are going to go out of business, and the ice producers.

“The boatbuilders, the repairers, they’re all going to go out of business. The outboard sales and service, going out of business.

“When you take the supply out, the price will go up. So, then, we’ll be relying on more imported fish. So, rather than having fish from our pristine waters… we’ll be importing lesser-quality fish, and prices will be skyrocketing!”

Mr Willcox exclaimed that he will “not be taking this lying down” and has written to the Minister for the Environment and Water, Tanya Plibersek, on this issue.

“I’m calling on Minister Plibersek to come to my electorate, do some community consultation, talk to the fishermen, have a discussion, and see how the fishermen fish!”

Mr Willcox also called out the State Government for “this absolute rubbish” about gillnets damaging the Great Barrier Reef stating “these nets don’t go within 60kms of the Great Barrier Reef! It’s just another Labor lie!”

“The wild caught fishing industry is run by professional men and women and has been done for so many generations,” he said.

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Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox

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