Whether it be locals sipping their lattes at coffee shops, drinking pints at the local, sharing a story at the weekend barbie or rising from their yoga mats after their downward dogs, there’s a common theme in Airlie; An urban myth that pops up in conversation; A mystifying, riveting mystery of the ‘Curse of the Whitsundays’.

Many speak of a curse that’s been placed on the Whitsundays long ago. That Airlie Beach is a place of healing, yet it has a cloud that hangs over its dark past. Local Musician, Community Worker and Human Rights Advocate, Adrian Thomas has been writing music with Traditional Ngaro/Gia Owner, Harold Bowen. The two have been collaborating with some of Far North Queensland and Australia's best musicians, creating music that speaks to the heart of Harold and Ngaro/Gia people’s journey. Part of that journey has been unpacking Harold’s family’s displacement, slavery, pain, heartbreak, and survival. A familiar but saddening journey of many traditional people that unpacks the truth of the Curse of the Whitsundays.

As the story would go Ngaro/Gia People lived in this land for over 40,000 Years. They lived in harmony, self-sufficiently in the abundant and beautiful location we know as the Whitsundays. The Ngaro/Gia Dreamtime story speaks of the Rainbow Serpent moving through the area, creating the Proserpine River. It was thought to bring life via the waterways, feeding the animals, birdlife, trees, soil, and the Indigenous people since the beginning of time.

When the settlers came, communities of Ngaro and Gia people were living along the Proserpine River and throughout the Whitsundays, utilising the abundant natural resources. The new arrivals, however, were not interested in sharing the land or living with the local tribes; The opposite was the case.

What ensued was a slaughter of traditional communities including women and children, with tremendous brutality. The old people describe "the Proserpine River ran red with blood".

In the ensuing bloodshed, the few locals who were spared were those strong enough to work. That bloodshed running through the Proserpine River desecrated the sacred site and some say the spirits of the old people lie in the crocodiles now residing in the river. This may offer some explanation of the presence of more large crocodiles per kilometre here than in any other system in Queensland. Researchers have been baffled at the relative lack of scars and scratches on the reptiles, which they say is expected in high-density areas due to fights. Even more puzzling is the lack of larger males pushing their competitors out into nearby Airlie Beach, one of “Queensland's greatest tourist meccas" (ABC News 11-18-22). 

The brutality of what Murri (Indigenous people native to Queensland) call “the killing times” has effectively desecrated the most sacred site and the life bringer of the entire Whitsundays. According to Adrian (who is of Black, Red, Yellow, and Irish descent) “our ancestors’ actions have cursed ourselves”. Queensland has a long history of brutality during these times which is starting to uncover. Harold’s great grandfather was one of the few ‘Indentured Servants’ (slaves) who helped build Proserpine. He was then shipped to Hopevale with most of the surviving Ngaro and Gia people.

It’s Adrian’s view that in lifting the ‘Curse of the Whitsundays’, we must acknowledge the truth of our darker past. He feels the first step is memorialising the massacres. There is currently only one memorial in Australia, Coniston near Yuendumu. He says by building a monument under the guidance of the Traditional Owners we can acknowledge the darkness that lies within each of us, that is passed down our ancestral tree, and play our part in building a foundation that sets the spirits of the past free. By bringing forth inclusiveness and reconciliation we can make way for healing, welcome returning Traditional Owners, and cleanse the most sacred site in the Whitsundays, renewing the whole region. 

Adrian and Harold recently shared cultural insights at Cannonvale State School where 450 students were taught the dark history of the Ngaro/Gia people in an age-appropriate manner.

A film was recorded for their new music video and an up-and-coming documentary. This may have been one of the first times it’s been shared in a primary education setting in Queensland.

Adrian says "The next generation don't want or need to carry the burdens of the past".

He also applauds the progressive nature of the Cannonvale State School and Teaching Staff for their commitment to understanding, healing and unity.

Adrian says "The young people are ready to let go of the shackles. Perhaps we as a people are ready to follow suit.”

Songs and music video for the music collaboration "Milbi" will be released in early 2024.

Contributed with thanks to Adrian Thomas.

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Harold Bowen and Adrian Thomas at Proserpine River, exploring the history and documenting Ngaro/Gia Dreamtime Stories, Colonisation, and trauma. Photos supplied

Were compiled and are practiced by Tibetan Monks to regain health, youth, and vitality. The 5 Rites are specific movements that focus on increasing the speed of the 7 energy vortexes in the body. These vortexes slow down as we age and have a degenerating effect on the physical body. Practicing the 5 Tibetan Rites can increase the speed of the vortexes hence benefiting overall health whilst rejuvenating the body.

“The only INNER difference between youth and serenity is simply the difference between the rate of speed at which the vortexes are spinning. Normalize the rate of speeds and the old man becomes a new man again.”  From the book; The Eye of Revelation by Peter Kelder.

Reported Benefits of practicing the 5 Tibetan Rites:

   • Increased energy

   • Better sleep

   • Improved strength & flexibility

   • Increased mental clarity & Focus

   • Improved mood

   • Better posture

   • Helps with transition of menopause

   • Can support weight loss or weight gain (balanced weight)

   • Feelings of calmness

   • Reduced stress

   • Improved digestion & elimination

   • Helps with symptoms of menstruation

   • Improved libido

   • Improved self-discipline and sense of purpose

   • Toning of the arms stomach and back muscles

   • Increased levels of Qi (prana, lifeforce, energy)

“The only INNER difference between youth and serenity is simply the difference between the rate of speed at which the vortexes are spinning. Normalize the rate of speeds and the old man becomes a new man again.”  The Eye of Revelation by Peter Kelder.

Yoga+5 classes are now available in Airlie Beach by founder and Yoga instructor, Norma Strang.

Yoga+5 is a sequence of breathing exercises, therapeutic hatha yoga asanas, followed by the 5 Tibetan Rites. You can take advantage of the current intro offer where your first class is free.

Reserve your class at www.normastrang.com/booknow

Good sleep routine and even better sleep habits is paramount to a healthy, successful and a productive day, which is why Nathan Harriott established Restore Sleep Clinic, a progressive and unique sleep clinic that specialises in diagnosing and treating sleep disorders, and best aligns good sleep practices for the residents of the Whitsundays.

Opening the doors six months ago, Restore Sleep Clinic is unique in its offering and services.

Nathan is the Psychologist, and diagnoses and treats sleep associated psychological disorders, with a specialty in insomnia.

With him is Dr Daniel Judge, a renowned Sleep and Respiratory Specialist, who is integral to diagnosis and advising suitable treatment, and Dr Alice Harriott, the team’s Dentist, who primarily undertakes treatment for Snoring and Obstructive Sleep Apnoea using oral appliances.

This diversified team is uniquely suited to diagnose and treat most sleep disorders, and there is never late intervention.

“There are key functions that your body only does when it’s asleep, and if you’re not getting enough sleep, or good enough quality of sleep, imagine the functions that your body is unable to complete.” explained Nathan. “Disordered sleep also increases your risk of heart disease, mental health issues, stroke and diabetes.”

When should you consider getting a referral to Restore Sleep Clinic?

“If you or your partner notices you snoring in the night, or you stop breathing during the night and if you easily fall asleep on the lounge or while watching TV,” explained Nathan.

“Insomnia is the most common sleep disorder, where you have difficulty getting to sleep, or waking up during the night, getting less than 6 hours sleep. If any of these symptoms are present for you, give us a call or see your GP and get a referral.”

Nathan explains that having good sleep practices is integral to ensuring good sleep.

“It’s never too late for intervention. But there are some routines that can help better your sleep. Leave your bed for only two things, sleep and sex. Save watching movies or tv, reading, and scrolling your phone for out of bed, because your brain begins to associate your bed with things other than sleep.”

“It is not a competition about who is able to do the most with the least amount of sleep, it’s your health. Not getting enough sleep is dangerous and incredibly poor for your health. It increases the risk of micro-sleeps which can lead to devastating consequences on the job or while driving.

“Do not underestimate the power of sleep.”

Proserpine Golf Club is starting the year off with a fun Social golf day on Australia Day – Everyone is welcome to don their best Aussie garb and zinc for a fun, yet competitive, 2 ball Ambrose. It will be a great day out with prizes and tucker in the spirit of Australia.

On Saturday 17th February, Proserpine Golf Club will host its inaugural CQ Rescue Charity Golf Day. We invite you and your team to join us in supporting the vital work of the Central Queensland Helicopter Rescue Service.

$500 - 3 Players (1 Team), or $900 - 6 Players (2 Teams) – 3 Ball Ambrose format allowing all levels of golfers to mix and play together with equal enjoyment.

Next year, 2025 the club proudly celebrates a century of existence, marking a significant milestone and setting its place as a cornerstone in the region.

For almost hundred years, Proserpine Golf Club has been a witness to the ebb and flow of time in our community and it is a place of pride for many generations of local families and golf enthusiasts.

Throughout this year the club is planning events to commemorate the occasion, in addition to its packed calendar of annual events.

The club welcomes all, offering an array of activities that confirm its commitment to inclusivity and enjoyment.

Proserpine Golf Club extends an invitation to all, to challenge yourself, learn a new skill and make new friends, it not just a promise of golfing experience. Golf is a game for all ages and abilities.

Contact the proshop for more information 4945 1337 or visit our Facebook page for more information. https://www.facebook.com/proserpinegolfclubinc

Do you wish to further develop your child’s independence, confidence, initiative, and ability?

Then Proserpine Scout Group is the place to go!

Built upon the values of assisting young people to achieve their full physical, intellectual, emotional, social and spiritual potentials, Proserpine Scouts works to develop the region's young people into responsible global citizens and capable resources for their community.

Savi Griffith joined Proserpine Scout Group two years ago and has continued to thrive. Initially, she joined the group because she wanted to meet new people and have fun.

“I like Scouts because I learn so much. I learnt how to tie different knots, put up a tent, cook food, and great survival skills. We also learn about First Aid, so I can help when people get hurt,” she said.

“I love meeting up with my friends on Tuesday and meeting new friends at Cuboree.”

Ryan Penhallurick is a fifth generation Proserpine Scout and he flourishes with the adventures that Scouts take him on.

“We attended a 2-night camp called Scoutfest 2023 at Rowallan Park, Mackay. We got to try out a whole bunch of activities like abseiling, archery, kayaking, mud run, mountain biking and rock climbing,” he explained.

Savi, Ryan, and the Proserpine Scouts are joined with a number of Adult Helpers, and their Qualified Leader, Sally Griffith, who joined shortly after her daughter, and has enjoyed giving back to the youth, and exploring the adventures that Scouts offer.

“Being a Leader has opened up so many avenues for me to be able to do activities that would not be available outside of Scouts QLD,” she explained.

If this sounds amazing, and you are interested about joining Proserpine Scout Group, as a Leader, Adult Helper or for your child please email the group on contact@proserpine.scoutsqld.com.au.

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The Proserpine Scout Group at camp in Rowallan Park. Photo supplied

Our local Proserpine Mill has signed on six new apprentices, as part of 34 across the eight Wilmar Sugar and Renewables Queensland sugar mills.

The new apprentices completed their two-week Safe Start program in January, before they began their work at their representative sugar mills.

Training Superintendent Daniel Shipard said the two-week Safe Start program prepared the new apprentices for what life would be like in Wilmar’s mills.

“It’s about getting them to understand Wilmar’s safety requirements and procedures, as well as giving them the basic skillset they require to enter their relevant workshops,” Daniel said.

Proserpine’s own Jayme Farr has signed on as an electrical apprentice at the Proserpine Mill, and she said she was thrilled to be doing her trade training in her home town.

“My family has been living in Proserpine since my father was 16 years old and, for over three generations now, we’ve been breeding horses on our family farm,” Jayme said.

“Being able to do my apprenticeship at Proserpine Mill means that I can be home every afternoon to spend time working on the farm with my family and compete in camp drafts with my friends on the weekends.”

Daniel said he was excited to bring the newest intake of apprentices into Wilmar’s operations, across the key trades of electrical, fitting and turning, boiler making and diesel fitting.

“They’re going to be a huge asset to our organisation, and we can’t wait to see them grow over the next four years of their apprenticeship.”

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Wilmar’s new apprentices, with Proserpine’s own, Jayme Farr in the front row, sixth from left, in the middle. Photo supplied

I think it’s obvious to people now that things like New Year’s Resolutions, New Year New You, and being instantly motivated to make changes simply doesn't work. So, what DOES work?

1. It’s not selfish to prioritise yourself and allow yourself a little bit of you time daily to exercise. If you don’t look after your own health, then ultimately how is that being a role model to your loved ones who are watching and mimicking your every move?

2. Motivation only lasts so long. Commitment and consistency is much more powerful. Setting a routine by starting to wake up the same time every day is the easiest place to start. There is some powerful science to suggest this is one of the best things you can do for your overall health.

3. Set some personal values. What is important to YOU. You are unique so your values will more than likely even be different to that of your partner’s. Openly discuss your own personal values so they are known and openly communicated. Then, make sure all of your actions are aligned with your own values. If being a healthy person is an important value to you, then something like binge drinking should be obviously misaligned to you.

4. Surround yourself with people that will uplift and support you and understand you and your values.  I have had to cut people out of my life simply because of value misalignment. Is it time to look at who you are surrounding yourself with daily?

2024. The year that self-care should be your new Power Move!

In the rise of young people using unnecessary treatments on their skin, these trendy brands and skincare are often doing more harm than good. Using skincare not specifically formulated for your skin type can pose a myriad of dangers, potentially leading to adverse effects and long-term damage.

One of the primary risks lies in exacerbating existing skin conditions. Different skin types require specific ingredients and formulations to address concerns effectively. Using products not designed for your skin type may contain harsh chemicals or ingredients that can worsen issues such as acne, sensitivity, or excessive dryness.

Furthermore, improper skincare choices may compromise the skin's natural barrier. Using products with overly aggressive ingredients can strip the skin of essential oils, leading to dehydration and increased vulnerability to environmental aggressors. This weakened barrier may result in redness, inflammation, and a heightened risk of infections.

In the long run, using skincare not suitable for your skin type may accelerate premature aging. The absence of proper hydration, nourishment, and protection can contribute to the formation of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone.

To safeguard your skin, it is crucial to understand your skin type and choose skincare products tailored to your individual needs. Consultation with a dermatologist can provide valuable insights into the most suitable products for your skin, helping you achieve a healthy and radiant complexion without compromising your skin's well-being.

Listen up treasure seekers and knick knack finders, Whitsunday Creatives’ Car Boot Sale is back and boasting an opportunity to rediscover preloved treasures from local residents.

With 20 cars and their boots on offer, the shopfront of Whitsunday Creatives will also be operating as normal, meaning you can discover all the second-hand goodies, before venturing indoors and explore all the handmade, locally produced goodies which boast imaginable local talent.

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WHAT: Car Boot Sale
WHERE: Whitsunday Creatives, 4/16 Main Street, Prosperine
WHEN: Saturday January 13, from 8am to 12pm

Get ready for some searching! Photo supplied

Do you know what to do this Australia Day?

Why not head to the Proserpine Youth Space annual Slime Fest, and have a great family fun day!

With an Australian barbeque on offer, fun run, slime slip n’ slide, games, and so much more, this will be fun for the whole family!

Registration begins at 9.30am, with the run starting at 10am.

Costing just $5 per person, or $20 per family or team, up to five people, this is a great opportunity to get active this Australia Day, with all proceeds going towards the Proserpine Youth Space programs and support of local disadvantaged youth.

For more information, contact the Proserpine Youth Space, on grant1@proserpineyouthspace.org.au

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WHAT: Whitsunday Slime Fest
WHERE: 65 Marathon Street, Proserpine (Old St Catherine’s School)
WHEN: Friday, January 26, from 9.30am

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Local children enjoying the 2023 Whitsunday Slime Fest. Photo: Rachael Smith

Jude Maxwell Jenner achieved the special honour of being the first baby born in Mackay for 2024 when he arrived on 2nd January, five days after his due date of December 28.

While his older sister Tatum, who is two and a half, was a little disappointed he wasn’t a girl, parents Kellen and Tori are thrilled with their new arrival and feeling much more relaxed the second time round.

“My waters broke prematurely a few days ago, so I needed antibiotics to guard against infection and needed to birth in the maternity unit for that reason,” Tori said.

“I was due to come in today for an induction, but labour started last night, and we came in to the hospital about 2am.”

Jude Maxwell arrived soon after at 6.09am weighing 3600g (7lb 9oz).

Tori was grateful for the care of her Mackay Birth Centre midwives.

“My midwife Julie was on leave, so I had Marion looking after me,” Tori said.

“But Julie came in for the last two hours to be with me, so I had care from both midwives, and they were wonderful.”

Welcome to the world little Jude Maxwell and congratulations to the Jenner family of Walkerston!

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The Jenner family; Kellen and Tori with two-and-a-half-year-old Tatum and new baby boy Jude. Photo supplied

‘Tis the season for toys, and with that, comes a plethora of batteries.

Mackay residents are being reminded to keep batteries and flammable materials out of kerbside bins.

One spark from an old battery can cause a fire in a rubbish truck or even send an entire waste facility up in flames.

Remove batteries where possible and place clear sticky tape over the connecting parts, before storing in a cool place until they can be disposed at an appropriate collection point.

Residents can dispose of batteries free of charge at council’s transfer stations, at the Incredable Drop-Off or at several businesses around the Mackay region. To find a battery drop-off location, visit bcycle.com.au

Flammable and hazardous materials also need to be kept out of kerbside bins and disposed of responsibly to avoid fires.

What can start a fire in kerbside bins?

• all batteries

• electronics containing batteries

• vapes, which contain batteries

• gas bottles

• chemicals

• fuels

• waste oils

• aerosol cans that are not empty

To find out how to dispose different items, visit council’s A-Z of waste disposal page at mackay.qld.gov.au/wastedisposal

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Recycle batteries at a unit like this one found at the Incredable Tip Shop

Two outstanding members of the Clinical Measurements Unit (CMU) at Mackay Base Hospital have soared to a remarkable milestone, revolutionising care across the Mackay Hospital and Health Service (MHHS) region.

Cardiac scientists Janine and Annie work closely with the Cardiology team when either a pacemaker or implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) is implanted in a patient. They then provide ongoing follow up and monitoring for patients.

‘Since we began implanting more complex ‘high voltage’ devices, a total of 40 ICDs have been implanted at MBH, where previously these patients were transferred to either Townsville or Brisbane for their implant," Annie said.

“We reached a one-year milestone on November 18 since our first ICD implant (Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator), and we are proud of this achievement.”

“It’s a huge development for Mackay to have the ability to offer this service,” Janine said.

“I believe Mackay Base Hospital (MBH) is punching above its weight in delivering cardiac care, and this has greatly improved the service we can give to our patients.”

The development has been made possible due to the efforts of cardiologist Dr Dominika Budzbon, who had previously implanted cardiac devices while working in the UK.

Her experience and willingness to impart her knowledge was instrumental in developing the MHHS cardiac device service.

The cardiac device team monitors approximately 500 patients with either implanted pacemakers, ICDs or CRTs (Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy) across the MHHS region.

Patients attend outpatient clinics in CMU where their devices are checked every six or twelve months.

“Most of these patients also have remote monitors at home, which transmit alerts and notifications to our clinic,” Annie said.

It makes for a busy workload for this small team, but Janine and Annie, who both completed a Bachelor of Biomedical Science degree at the University of the Sunshine Coast, love the role.

As part of their studies, they undertook a 12-week placement in the Cardiac Investigations Unit at Nambour General Hospital.

“I completed my degree as a mature age student and studied science due to my previous interest in it at school; I had no expectations and just wanted to challenge myself,” Janine said.

“I chose a cardiac placement because my mum had had a previous heart attack which resulted in her having a heart bypass.”

Annie also stressed the significance of her placement.

“I just loved it because students on placement do everything from attaching holter monitors to people, to watching pacemaker checks and the cath lab in action.

“It was just great, particularly as it consolidated all the theory we’d learned at uni, and it just made sense.

“Cardiac is really interesting. I feel like we could study every day for the rest of our lives and still never know it all.”

By Mackay Hospital and Health Service

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Cardiac scientists Janine and Annie. Photo supplied: Mackay Hospital and Health Service

Alright, so, confession time. New Year, no resolutions—just learning to live my best life. You see, I had this epiphany on New Year’s Eve. There I was, eyeing this bottle of Champagne I've been hoarding. I almost didn't pop it because, well, I was waiting for a 'special' moment. But then it hit me: every moment is special!

I mean, I've barely used these fancy glasses from my 40th, I’ve been saving scented candles like they're rare relics, and keeping luscious chocolate for... I don't know, an apocalypse? The thing is, life's too short for waiting around. The chocolate could turn into a chalky mess, the candles might lose their scent, and that Champagne—oh, it could've gone flat! So, I drank the Champagne, in a hot bath, in a fancy glass, with ALL of my candles burning, using all the bath bombs and salts I could find.

In this world of financial rollercoasters and pinching pennies, I realized we're all in a way hoarding bits of joy for an imagined rainy day. But seriously, why? The 'today' is just as deserving! So, no more 'saving for a rainy day' or 'special occasions only'. I'm all about seizing the fizziness of life.

I've decided to spend more time with my gang—the hubby and my little champ. Because, truth be told, there's no grander celebration than the giggles of my kiddo. That's the real champagne poppin', folks!

So, this year's not about ticking off a list; it's about embracing those everyday bubbles—whether it's splurging on the good bath bombs or just being goofy with my loved ones. Life's all about creating our own celebrations, right?

Here's to a year of relishing life's sweet, fizzy moments and ditching the 'saving it for later' attitude.

To all you wonderful readers, thanks a bunch for grabbing this paper! Here's to hoping it brings a sprinkle of joy and a truckload of good vibes your way in 2024.

May your days be filled with giggles, your moments laced with smiles, and your adventures loaded with fantastic tales. Cheers to each of you—may this year be your grandest one yet!

Amanda

In the bustling aisles of the HomeCo shopping precinct on Mackay Bucasia Road, a touching moment unfolded, highlighting the kindness and support present within the community. Danii Seres, a mother managing the challenges of parenting, encountered a heartwarming act of compassion amidst a challenging situation. As her son experienced a significant meltdown, Danii found herself in a moment of distress. However, amidst the chaos, a stranger named Maddy from the local pet store stepped in to offer a helping hand during a difficult time.

Amidst the chaos of her son's mega-meltdown, Danii was full of immense gratitude for Maddy's unexpected aid. With her little one reaching full volume mode, Danii felt a mix of embarrassment and relief. She jokingly apologised to anyone within earshot whose day might have been audibly disrupted by the mini-tornado. Maddy's help became a lifeline in that mad moment!

In a Facebook post on a community mother’s board Danni said, “You have no idea how much this meant to me.

“I was so embarrassed and apologies to those who may have had their eardrums burst in the process,” she said.

Other mothers agreed that small acts of kindness are greatly appreciated during hectic parenthood moments.

Bonnie Rose commented, “Makes a huge difference when someone is so kind, especially when the kids have a meltdown. Glad someone made it easier for you.”