Farmers and producers in the Mackay and Whitsunday region will soon be able to learn more about the importance of integrating the Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) framework on-farm, thanks to an upcoming workshop being held next week.

Delivered by the Tropical North Queensland Drought Resilience Adoption and Innovation Hub (TNQ Drought Hub) in partnership with Reef Catchments, the Mackay workshop is the first in a series across the region focused on increasing ESG awareness within the Australian agricultural industry.

Senior Research Officer at TNQ Drought Hub Ana Leite De Almeida has been leading national research on ESG on-farm adoption and will be facilitating the Mackay workshop.

Ms Leite De Almeida has been working with producers and growers in North Queensland to develop some of the first educational materials aimed at helping landholders better understand the ESG framework and how it can be applied to their farm.

“The workshop aims to raise awareness about the ESG framework and help farmers to develop an ESG materiality assessment, create a sustainability baseline and build an ESG strategy based around practical examples,” said Ms Leite De Almeida.

“This is our first workshop dedicated to using the ESG on-farm framework, which has been developed by TNQ Drought Hub and is focused on equipping farmers with the knowledge required to develop their own ESG analysis and track their sustainability progress.”

Ms Leite De Almeida said it was vital for landholders to understand the role of ESG practices in ensuring future resilience, sustainability, and profitability for their businesses.

“Addressing sustainability challenges has become a critical issue for Australian producers,” said Ms Leite De Almeida.

“The concept of ESG is not new, but the Australian agricultural industry is a late adopter. Previously ESG efforts have been focused on corporations and large businesses, rather than at producers and landholders.

“The pressures for a more sustainable agricultural development model have increased as well as the use of ESG standards to improve sustainability.

“We know that an ESG analysis can help farmers to be more sustainable, reducing carbon emissions and creating more nature-positive impacts.”

Reef Catchments Drought Resilience Coordinator Carlos Bueno said workshop participants will encompass a diverse group, including sugar cane farmers, productivity officers, and representatives from both governmental and industry sectors.

“Workshops such as this one play a significant role in ensuring that growers have access to the latest tools promoting sustainability and sustainable land management and that latest research outcomes, reaches the right people,” said Mr Bueno.

“They also ensure that support is accessible for farmers and producers to be able to make any required transitions, changes, and adoptions in this space.

“We encourage those in the Mackay region who are interested in learning more about the ESG framework to attend the workshop and gain valuable insight into integrating sustainable on-farm practices.”

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Ana Almedia, Keerah Steele, Dhiraj Gajera at the Reef Catchments Annual Innovative Grazing Forum in April 2023

Ana Almeida speaking at the Northern Beef Producers Expo in June 2023

Photos supplied

By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

THE CANEGROWERS Mackay AGM is always a time for members to come together and consider the issues that have affected our industry and our organisation across the year.

This year has been no exception, as an organisation we have tackled millers on issues around milling performance across the season. For a third year in a row, we find ourselves harvesting in the aggressive heat of December, with the storm season also developing and challenging in paddock conditions. At this year’s AGM, we exhorted the mills to have the vision and will to have their mills functioning in a highly efficient way for 2024, allowing all sectors to make the best out of the crop. That comes down to maintaining a capable workforce in the long term as well as efficient, functional factories and supply networks.

It has been a year that has seen changes in leadership, with the passing of long-serving CEO Kerry Latter. This led to a re-development of leadership, with the appointment of Grower Services Manager Michelle Martin to the role of District Manager, combining the two positions and bringing it into alignment with other CANEGROWERS districts. Michelle addressed the meeting on this matter and her direction for membership focus and services.

In my address, I also spoke of the issues surrounding our sugar terminals, and quite specifically, Sugar Terminals Ltd continuing to operate outside of its constitution in terms of inactive grower class shareholders, and of the undesirable decision to remove QSL as terminal operator by 2026. I cannot emphasise enough: these terminals are industry assets, and industry and government established QSL as terminal operators. The industry has clearly demonstrated through votes cast at the STL AGM held recently that the industry does not support the STL board’s current direction.

The AGM also engaged with the emerging opportunity that is presented by the biofutures sector. It’s an area that we as an organisation have been actively involved in realising for the regional economy Sugarcane is increasingly seen as a quality renewable feedstock for new technologies in food, fibre and fuels. Our guest speaker was Michele Stansfield, CEO of Australian precision fermentation company Cauldron Molecules. This company is likely to be the first to establish a production line in Mackay, focussing on the fermentation of alternative proteins (milk and egg substitutes) that will help meet the protein needs of a rapidly growing world population.

The company is currently engaged in a feasibility study that could well see upscaling of production here in Mackay over the coming decade.

Michele offers an interesting perspective, in that Cauldron Molecules is interested in community “uplift”, to see benefits flow across the supply chain in the development of an alternate market for our sugar, and for the community in quality jobs, education and training in a regional economy starting to transition from fossil fuel dependency, in the development of great jobs that capitalise and extend on the existing technical prowess of the region.

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Kevin Borg

AGM guest speaker, Michele Stansfield, CEO of Australian precision fermentation company Cauldron Molecules

District Manager Michelle Martin

MCL director Brett Leach, QCGO Chairman Owen Menkens, MCL Director Greg Plath

Bill Hobbs, Herb Robke, MAPS Smartcane BMP officer and grower Lorelle Flynn

Byron and Ross Nicholson with Lachlan McLennan

Reef Catchments CEO Katrina Dent, SRA District Manager Dylan Wedel, retired MCL director Tony Ross

Located on the north side of The Leap, RDO Equipment Mackay is the cornerstone of agricultural and construction needs.

With a history in farming lifestyle, the business has undergone significant transformations to reflect their diverse range. The journey began with the business under the name Vanderfield Mackay, which was replaced by RDO Equipment in 2019. The name change took place 18 months ago, solidifying their identity as a one-stop solution for agriculture and construction machinery.

The client base at RDO Equipment is as diverse as their machinery. Branch Manager Lindsay Mawbey outlined the three primary demographics, catering to farmers, both in crop and cattle, civil contractors and individualist hobby farms.

RDO Equipment boasts an extensive John Deere product range, covering everything from ride-on and zero-turn mowers to robust tractors with a range of attachments. Machinery extends to a range of farming and construction equipment, including high-capacity cane harvesters, diggers, graders, dozers, and wheel loaders.

With partnerships to over seventy companies, RDO Equipment serves various attachments and aftermarket accessories. This means they can source specialty items for customers, ensuring a comprehensive range of options for even the most specific needs.

One of the standout qualities of RDO Equipment is their emphasis on employee satisfaction, as highlighted by Lindsay Mawbey, “If we can keep the staff happy and retain them all, the customer gets the benefit of that just by looking after your employees.”

With a team of 25 staff members in sectors including sales, parts and service, the company prioritises a happy workforce. This translates into their customer service, creating a positive environment for both employees and clients.

As technology advances, RDO Equipment prioritise staying ahead of the curve. With a focus on technology training, particularly with the John Deere range and AMS (Agricultural Management Solutions).

Lindsay stated, “We can get the data from harvest yield monitors which allows variable rate fertilizers and variable spray applications, which equates to huge savings on input costs.”

RDO Equipment aims to be at the forefront of the industry, with the future introduction of autonomous tractors on the horizon to improve efficiency and reduce labour costs.

With Christmas fast approaching, RDO Equipment stock a range of agricultural-themed toys, including the ever-popular 12-volt and 6-volt ride-on gators, catering to the increased interest from local shoppers.

Take a stroll through the showroom to discover the diverse range, with equipment to suit all ages. The commitment to quality and customer satisfaction is highlighted through a vast selection of inventory and enthusiastic team members who are ready to assist.

With a skilled team, a diverse range of high-quality products, and a commitment to staying ahead in the ever-evolving landscape of technology, RDO Equipment stands out as a reliable partner for farmers and contractors alike. Visit the showroom on 2276 Bruce Highway.

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Drone shot of RDO Equipment’s extensive machinery fleet

Photo credit: RDO Equipment

Grab some goodies for the kids in time for Christmas

Enhance your performance in agriculture and construction with RDO Equipment

Photo credit: Sinead Porter

The festive season can bring joy, but it also can intensify stress and strain. For many Australians, Christmas triggers financial worries and personal challenges, affecting relationships and mental well-being. However, with some mindful preparations and self-care strategies, you can navigate the holiday season without the stress.

Financial Control:

Set a Budget and Stick to it

Money woes often plague the holidays. Establish a realistic budget for gifts and festivities, and avoid the anxiety of overspending. Consider alternatives like Secret Santa for larger groups to ease financial strain.

Plan Wisely, Shop Early

Last-minute shopping can heighten stress. Prioritize shopping ahead to avoid crowds and ensure thoughtful gift selection. For a hassle-free experience, opt for online shopping.

Manage Expectations and Embrace Realism: Perfection isn't realistic; manage expectations. Allow yourself to enjoy the imperfect moments of Christmas rather than chasing an idealized version. Focus on the joy of genuine connections.

Moderation in Festive Feasting: Overindulgence in food and alcohol is common during the holidays. Balance heavier meals with lighter options. Be mindful of your limits to avoid discomfort and subsequent guilt.

Me-Time and Fresh Air: Amidst the chaos, carve out time for yourself. Step outside for a brief walk or engage in light exercises. These breaks can rejuvenate your mind and help manage stress.

Seek Company and Connection: Loneliness can intensify during the holidays. Seek community events or virtual gatherings to connect with others. Shared experiences can uplift spirits and alleviate feelings of isolation.

Volunteer for a Cause: Giving back fosters a sense of purpose. Volunteer for local charities or offer help to neighbours. Contributing positively to others' lives can lift your mood and create meaningful connections.

Prioritise Quality Sleep: Amidst the rush, ensure adequate rest. Lack of sleep can affect mental well-being. Establish a sleep routine and prioritize restful nights to recharge your mind and body.

Release Expectations of Others: Accept that you can't control others' actions. Focus on the joy of giving without expecting perfection in return. Embrace the spirit of the season irrespective of outcomes.

Establish New Traditions Beyond Materialism: Start personal traditions that focus on meaningful experiences over material gifts. This could involve family activities or moments that hold intrinsic value beyond commercialism.

Reflect and Plan for a Fresh Start: Assess the year gone by and set new goals. Celebrate achievements and learnings. Use this time to prepare for a positive start to the coming year.

Don't Hesitate to Seek Help: If stress or depression feels overwhelming, seek support. Engage with friends, family, or professional counselling services to address and manage emotional challenges.

Surviving the festive season with mental well-being intact requires mindful choices and self-awareness. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and professionals are available to support your mental health during this time,

For more than a decade, Mackay’s Child Youth and Family Health Service has offered Early Parent Groups to support families in those early stages of parenthood.

Early Parent Groups are facilitated by a child health nurse each Wednesday morning (9.30 to 11.30am) at Carlyle Community Health for new parents of babies aged 0-5 months.

Topics covered over four sessions include sleep and settling, adjustment to parenting, feeding, play and development. The groups also provide a space for families to share their experiences, concerns and triumphs, or to simply have a chat with other parents.

Additional benefits include building a support network, learning from each other, getting out of the house, making new friends, looking at different ways to parent and discovering community resources available in Mackay.

Next sessions:

Wednesday 12 December: Sleep

Wednesday 19 December: Infant development and behaviour

2024 Early Parent Groups will commence again in January.

If you would like to be part of the next group or an upcoming group, contact Carlyle Community Health centre on 4885 7750.

March 2023 marked the beginning of an exciting journey, with a unique storefront for teens, when Harper Bee opened at Caneland Central.

Harper Bee focuses on serving their niche, primarily catering products designed for teenagers, with an ongoing transition to be more inclusive of both boys and girls.

The passion that goes into the storefront stems from a personal connection, with Owner Lisa Versaci being a parent to three teenagers herself. She recognised the lack of suitable items in the market, thus creating the one-stop location. One of Lisa’s children also runs the social media for Harper Bee, allowing a teen-friendly atmosphere in every sense.

Lisa stated, “There's a gap in products [available] for teens and tweens. So, we're catering for that age group. The kids come in here and it's like Christmas every day.”

Harper Bee are excited to showcase some fantastic back-to-school and Christmas gifts including duffel bags, backpacks, lunch boxes, and drink bottles. These are just a few highlights of the store, which also boasts a makeup and wellness section, jewellery-making, bath bombs and more.

Harper Bee aims to bridge the gap in the market, offering a curated selection for teens and tweens, who often struggle to ‘fit in’ to the age bracket that other stores cater to.

Harper Bee believes shopping for this age group should be a joy. By breaking down the market, they make it easier for parents to find simple yet thoughtful items for their kids.

Harper Bee has a dedication to providing a feel-good experience, infusing positivity into their work culture. They are constantly empowering their customers to feel amazing about themselves, with products featuring affirmations and uplifting messages to spark confidence and radiate joy.

The team at Harper Bee look forward to continually growing their range and offer teens new and exciting products. Visit the storefront at Shop 2518 upstairs at Caneland Central.

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The beaded jewellery station is a big hit with teens

Gorgeous products from the back-to-school range

Discover the exclusive range just in time for Christmas!

Photo credit: Sinead Porter

The first chiropractic adjustment dates back to 1895. The terminology arising from Greek words cheiro (hand) and praktikos (doing or action). Prior to this, people who practiced joint manipulation were called ‘bone-setters’.

Joint manipulation, or bone setting, is not the only form of treatment that is performed at Experience Healing, although it is the foundation.

Chiropractor Dr. Mat has spent his previous years in the health industry as a Personal Trainer and Massage Therapist, developing skills that enable him to treat his patients from the initial injury, through rehabilitation and into full recovery, all under the one roof.

Experience Healing specialises in all conditions of the musculoskeletal system, including foot and hand conditions, shoulder and knee injuries, hip and spinal disorders. Beyond the Chiropractic adjustment, Dr. Mat and his team implement assisting remedies such as dry needling, fascial cupping, muscle release techniques and exercise rehabilitation.

An additional tool that is only available at Experience Healing is the K-Laser. This device stimulates the natural healing process of cells within the body and has been used to treat conditions such as bursitis, plantar fasciitis, tendinopathies and muscle strains within Experience Healing.

With these techniques, Experience Healing aims to not only treat the present problem, but to also work with the patient in identifying what lead them to this injury and provide the tools to prevent its reoccurrence.

Dr. Mat stated, “Preventative maintenance is key. Just like servicing your car, we don’t want to wait until the engine has blown up before we check the oil and filters.

“We do regular servicing to prevent it ever happening. If we treat our body the same way, we can expect the best chance at living a happy, healthy and fulfilling life.”

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The K-Laser stimulates the natural healing process of cells within the body

Photo credit: Experience Healing

A light dusting of rain did not dampen the spirits at Carols by the Beach which was held on the Airlie Beach Foreshore last Sunday.

Hundreds flocked to the event which saw the Proserpine Citizens Band delight and almost 200 students from Cannonvale State School perform some of the season’s favourite Christmas songs.

The cheeky green grinch stole the show with his mischievous antics, enticing a trail of squealing kids to follow along in his wake. The event culminated with Santa’s arrival in the bright red fire truck.

See the photo gallery on page 23.

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SaskiaHoey, Harper Hamblin, Caitlin Mcluskey, Mayor Julie Hall, Cass Jemmeson andLayla Hammond at Carols by the Beach. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

Hi Everyone,

With Christmas around the corner it is certainly an exciting time of year – Mr Elf is causing mischief under the cover of night, children are hyped up on candy-cane sugar highs and everyone is floating around from one festive gathering to another – hugging friends and feeling the warmth of a festive spirit which is almost as high as our current heatwave!

While there is much fun to be had, however, it is also a time of year where we feel the pinch on our pockets as we struggle to find the dollars in our purses to fund this kind of merriment.

For a long time I’ve been watching my weekly supermarket bill get higher and higher. I used to get everything I needed for around $150, now I am lucky if I get out of the shop with anything under $250 – how has this happened?

We are in the middle of a ‘cost of living crisis’ and, in my opinion, this is being exasperated by the cost of everyday items on our supermarket shelves.

Now, I am all for paying a little extra to ensure our farmers and producers are receiving a fair price for their hard work, but according to Andrew Willcox this is not what’s happening.

In a recent article he informed us that the national trade price for lamb has fallen from $8.39 per kilo to $4.82 per kilo, but we are still paying the same price at the supermarkets – how is this fair?

We also know that automated check-outs are now common practice. And, while I am happy to ‘beep’ my own items, it would be nice if this cost-saving solution was passed onto the consumer.

Instead, while I am paying more than I ever have at the supermarket, I am reading about how one of our leading supermarket chains made an annual profit of $1 billion.

This all seems off-kilter to me.

Rach

Crediton Hall Recreation Club (CHRC) and Provisional School celebrated their 80th anniversary last month, with a nostalgic and reminiscent event.

Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson attended to address the attendees.  

CHRC provided a glorious spread of food, as well as a celebration cake for dessert. Many attendees camped overnight, enjoying a firepit and games for the children to play. The event also saw a Rolling Raffle, and past residents sharing their stories and photos from over the years.

The joyous occasion was celebrated by past and present members and school peers.

A recent post on Facebook has captured the hearts of many around the community with its simplicity, ease and incredible potential in re-purposing pre-loved items this Christmas.  

Shared by Karen Bedford on Whitsundays Noticeboard, the post read:

“What is one thing that you cannot afford but need right now? Let's see what others say, maybe you have it and you don't need it, have something you would like to give away, can pass it on to them or have a connection to get it.

“Perhaps we can help each other, together we can get through these tough times!

this is a giving post to promote kindness and community spirit.”

Originally from the UK, Karen saw the same post appear in a community chat site in her hometown and thought she would share it here in Australia.

She had experienced the effects of a cost of living crisis when the fishing industry in her hometown closed down, wiping many small businesses out.

“Sadly, the small town has never recovered,” she explained.

“People are doing it tough, even more so following covid, the cost of living is also hitting Australia hard.

“I also thought about so many locals doing it tough as well so posted it on Whitsunday Noticeboard and I hope it has also helped people here.”

The post attracted 246 comments, many people jumping on to offer an item they do not use at home.

From Christmas trees to kettles and toasters, self-inflating camp mattresses, chicken coops and even a lounge setting – everything and anything was gifted to a grateful recipient.

As a child and young adult I played a lot of sport. I grew up in Canberra and the city was a melting pot of people from all over the country who ended up in the capital thanks to their public service job.

That melting pot brought their various sports with them … so I got to play soccer, rugby league, rugby union, volleyball, basketball and to do a bit of athletics.

That was all a bit of fun in school sports but it was different with my two great loves, cricket and AFL football. That was the serious stuff.

I was reminded of my sporting background, specifically its lack of golf, when I recently went to Hamilton Island and joined some friends for 18 holes at Dent Island.

Anyone who has played golf on that most-picturesque of courses will know it comes with a degree of difficulty almost impossible to imagine or create.

There are holes where you either tee off perfectly and end up on the green or hit it slightly less than perfectly and end up in a ravine or the heavy bushland that squeezes the fairway into an absurdly narrow strip of laughable, pointless hope. And then there’s the wind.

There is no margin for error, no chance for anyone but the best golfers.

My seemingly extensive sporting background prepared me for Dent Island in the way that going for a roller coaster ride at the Mackay Show prepares you for entering a Formula 1 Grand Prix and taking on Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton. Not very well.

I played with a couple of doctors, both of them better players than me but also victims of the unforgiving variables of the course.

It was interesting to note the Dent-driven frustrations of medical people who normally control the variables. They are accustomed to confidently predicting action and reaction, what precisely will happen when they apply their skills in the interaction between the human body and science.

For me, that is also the frustration of golf. In my work I know what needs to be done to create a predictable result. Does the marketing look right? Has the write-up hit the target? Have I contacted all the potential buyers on my database?

The buyer doesn’t know it, but the negotiation starts before they have even made an offer … but key elements have to be done properly for that to work, to ensure you are getting the best price the market will pay. Cause and effect. Action and reaction. Everything has to line up properly, just like a good golf shot.

There is a blue-print for success in selling a property and you can’t just come out swinging and hit and hope because your client, the seller, will end up in the bunker.

Whether you are an accountant, lawyer, mechanic, plumber, boiler maker, engineer, chef, florist or real estate agent, it is reassuring when you have the experience and expertise to create the required result.

The result might not always be 100 per cent perfect but it’s much better than working with the unpredictable mysteries of the back nine on Dent Island.

A significant drop in the mango crop across the Whitsundays this year has seen farmers struggling with a small yield and large production costs, while consumers are paying more at the supermarket counter.

Ben Martin from Marto’s Mangoes in Bowen says, however, that this years’ crop is not all doom and gloom, in fact it does have some positives.

He believes the smaller crop has in fact increased demand and brought prices back to a pre-Covid rate which is where it needs to be in order to ensure the longevity of the industry.

“The last few years we’ve seen extremely low prices and the consumers have got used to it,” he explained.

“When you look at the price point this year, realistically that’s where it needs to be on a normal year to build a sustainable business.”

Local farmers are unsure as to the exact reason for the small crop, in fact Ben says that “if we knew that, we’d be billionaires!”, but the general consensus is that the warmer winter meant less pollination.

“The lack of cold weather throughout the winter hasn’t produced as many flowers,” he said.

“While no one knows for sure, that’s the general consensus.”

And while consumers are seeing a price rise at the grocery stores, Ben assures the community, this increase does not mean farmers are better off.

“There is a misconception that mango growers are having a terrific year,” he shared.

“But a lot of farmers won’t even break even this year, the crop is down almost 50 per cent but they still need to cover operating costs – everything from insurance to fertilisers.”

Chief Executive Officer of the Bowen Gumlu Growers Association, Ry Collins, said that a tray of Bowen mangoes is selling for between $30 and $40 this year, compared to reaching an extremely low price of $10 last year.

There are six large growers in Bowen and a further six that operate commercially, while others are running smaller operations.

Each farmer is feeling the pinch this year, so bear that in mind when you are purchasing some delicious mangoes at your local fruit shop.

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Ben, Ash-lei, Bernadette, and Gary Martin. Photo supplied

If not, you’re not alone!

Thankfully there are some wonderful community organisations with nimble fingers who can fold and tie presents with precision. All it costs is a gold coin per gift (a larger donation is appreciated for large gifts) and it’s all in the name of charity.

Caneland Central

Have your gifts beautifully wrapped by a band of merry volunteer elves at Caneland Central.

You'll find volunteers from Alpharho ESA Mackay at the two charity gift wrapping stalls near Target and upstairs at Universal every day until Christmas Eve.

Proceeds will help keep RACQ CQ Rescue up in the air and saving lives across the festive season!

Home Co, Mackay Bucasia Road

The lovely ladies from Mackay Scope Club are gift wrapping again this year at Home Co.

You’ll find their festive wrapping table near Spotlight. All proceeds are going to The Street Aid Project - Chances Op Shop, Mackay n District Special School, and MARS Animal Rescue.

The wrapping services are daily until Christmas Eve, 9am-5pm. If anyone would like to donate time to wrap, please phone Jan on 043 734 3220.

Grab a coffee from K&Co while the elves magically wrap your pressies, so all you need to do is find space under the tree.

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Caneland Central

Home Co

Runners, walkers, cyclists and motorised small vehicle users will be excited to find out that the boardwalk between the VMR boat ramp and Shingley Drive is due to re-open to the public this morning.

This section of the Bicentennial Boardwalk which runs five-kilometres along the coast between Airlie Beach and Cannonvale, has been closed since September for Stage 2 of the works.

Whitsunday Regional Council engaged Plants Whitsundays to complete the upgrades which will now mean the boardwalk has been widened by one-metre.

In addition, the timber surface of the structure has been replaced with a composite fibre material, which is both durable and easy to maintain.

The hardwood timber previously used for the boardwalk has been retained by Council for future projects.

The entire project has been well organised and completed on-time and within budget.

“We thank the community and local businesses for their patience while these works have been undertaken and are grateful for the hard work being put in by our contractors to have the boardwalk completed in time for the festive season,” said a Council spokesperson.

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The boardwalk between the VMR and Shingley Beach will re-open to the public today. Photo supplied