Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Photo source: Whitsunday Anglican School (Facebook) Whitsunday Anglican School’s Kindy to Year 2 students enjoyed a fun-filled Athletics Carnival, with young athletes taking part in running, jumping and throwing events while showing plenty of enthusiasm, determination and House spirit. Supported by Senior School volunteers, the day celebrated participation, encouragement and the strong sense of community across the school. See more photos here: www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/little-legs-big-spirit-at-whitsunday-anglican-schools-kindy-carnival
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Leading Mackay real estate business REMAX Select has announced the appointment of highly respected business professional Samantha Self as General Manager. The appointment is set to further strengthen the agency's high-performing team across the Mackay region, with Principal Nikita Kinnane describing Ms Self's arrival as an exciting step forward for the business. “We are heading in a really exciting direction with our business, and I cannot be more excited to have Samantha join our leadership team to build on that momentum,” Ms Kinnane said. Ms Kinnane said the recruitment process was focused on finding a leader whose values aligned with those of the business, it was Ms Self's shared commitment to those values and vision that made her the ideal candidate. "Samantha will play an important role in shaping the future REMAX Select, bringing exceptional experience in property, management and leadership to help drive growth and innovation, and this will flow into enhancing every aspect of our business. "Importantly, Samantha shares our core values and commitment to putting Mackay first, and we share the same drive to really make impactful change, bring big city ideas and execute them in our own country girl way.” It was the core values of respect, integrity, collaboration, excellence and trust that Ms Self aligned with, sharing her goal to continue to build on the trust and integrity the agency has established in Mackay, while supporting the continued growth and development of both the team and business. “I’m excited to take on the role of general manager and work alongside Nikita and the entire team at REMAX Select,” Ms Self said. “REMAX Select has a strong team with exceptional talent which is highly respected throughout the community and I’m excited to be part of its continued success.” Ms Self steps into the role after eight years as retail manager of the largest shopping centre in northern Australia. During that time, she was the key driver of building positive, collaborative relationships with retailers, creating an environment where retailers were genuine partners in success. Having led sales performance analysis and market insight initiatives, Ms Self said she looks forward to applying her knowledge and experience to support the continued success of the REMAX Select team. “I am dedicated to empowering our team members through training and development opportunities, ensuring they have the tools they need to succeed,” she said. “My goal is to continue to foster the team’s culture of professionalism, responsiveness and customer-first approach and I look forward to collaborating with our talented agents and staff to create a dynamic and successful environment here at REMAX Select.” REMAX Select is an award-winning real estate business, recently recognised as the 2025 REIQ Medium Agency of the Year and finalist at the 2026 REIA National Awards for Excellence. The office consistently ranks in the National Top 10 Offices in the REMAX Australia network, recognised as the #3 individual office for commissions and transactions at the REMAX Australia Annual Awards 2025 earlier this year, where they were also named a finalist for the network’s community service award and special achievement in marketing for an office award. REMAX Select is located at 133B Victoria Street, Mackay. Contact (07)4829 4612 or visit remax.com.au/select/ for an award winning real estate experience. Newly appointed General Manager, Samantha Self (Left) with REMAX Select Principal Nikita Kinnane (Right).
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In 2000, Peter and Denise Phillips laid the foundation for what would become one of Mackay’s most recognisable holistic, all in one property, insurance and financial services ecosystem. Starting as a Mortgage Choice franchise, Gardian was built on a commitment to helping people make confident financial decisions with local people in the know! Over the decades, that foundation has steadily evolved. Today, Gardian encompasses a wide range of services, including all manner of finance, general and business insurance, financial planning, real estate sales, property management, and commercial sales, management and leasing. What began as a single offering has grown into an integrated business model serving individuals, families, businesses, and community across the region. Now, the organisation enters its next chapter. After many years at the helm with her late husband Peter, Denise Phillips will step down from her role as Managing Director. Her leadership has been central to Gardian’s growth — not just in size, but in culture, reputation, and its connection to the local community. Taking over the role is Ben Phillips, Owner/Director and Head of Gardian Finance. Having been closely involved in all aspects of the business and its clients, he brings both continuity and a forward-looking perspective to the position. Leadership transitions often mark defining moments for organisations. In this case, the change represents both the continuation of a strong legacy and the opportunity to build on it. The evolution of Gardian — from a small franchise to a diversified advisory group — reflects the importance of adaptability, strategic growth, and staying aligned to core values to the community. For the Mackay business community, this transition highlights the strength of long-term vision and succession planning, particularly within locally grown enterprises. It also reinforces the impact that leadership grounded in community and relationships can have over time. As Gardian moves forward under new leadership, it does so with deep roots, a clear purpose, and a platform built for continued growth.
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I don’t know about you, but I find morning TV hosts incredibly annoying. I rarely get to see them, with their contrived laughter, over-the-top friendliness, stupid nicknames for each other, make-up and perfect hair cuts. But sometimes, if there has been some event that might interest me, or if I’m curious about what’s going on, I might flick on the TV and see what’s happening as I’m getting ready for work. I immediately regret it and start flicking channels to try to find someone bearable. It’s a challenge that usually lasts a couple of minutes before I turn the TV off and do something much more pleasant, like go to work. I did like Karl Stefanovic but he has been flicked, apparently because his employer didn’t like his podcast guests. There seemed something real about Karl but he was an island in a sea of fakery so there’s no point in me turning on Channel 9 anymore. There’s an Irish journalist/host on ABC TV, Catherine Murphy, who I also like. She’s funny and real and seems to want to stick to simply presenting a story in her slightly quirky style without imposing an agenda. But that’s about it for me. One thing the morning shows have an abundance of is “experts”. Whatever the drama that’s emerged, there’s an expert to explain it to you, pull it apart and tell you how concerned you should be. The expert needs to do it in about 17 seconds because everyone is going to get bored soon and we’ve got an ad break coming up. The more dramatic the event and the more it impacts the loyal viewers, the more vital it is that an expert is on hand. The current disaster of note it a neat combo: the economy/inflation/interest rates/housing downturn. This is the type of news drama you want when you’re planning the show because it affects the viewers, hits their hip pockets. But experts are everywhere in the media on this one, not just the morning shows. They’re out there giving their views on interest rates (some say they will go up, others say they will go down), the economy (some say it will be okay, others say we are headed for a recession), inflation (some say it will get worse and others say it will ease). Part of this blockbuster, of course, is house prices. Some experts say prices will drop in big cities like Sydney and Brisbane. Others say they will drop everywhere. Some say there will be a small, temporary drop but things will soon start going up again because there is a lack of housing supply across the nation. One group of experts that are worth paying attention to are the valuers from Herron Todd White, who put out their monthly property clock, which is a snapshot of how they see particular markets. The position on the clock face a particular city is located (we’re talking analogue here kids, not digital) tells you where it sits in the market. Twelve o’clock is top of the market, 3 o’clock is a falling market, 6 o’clock is the bottom of the market, 9 o’clock is a rising market. Things can change quickly and there a times a property can go from falling market to bottom of the market and up to rising market very quickly. HTW’s June clock would have been a challenge for them because tax changes and other events had happened but their longer-term impacts are unclear. They had Bundaberg and Toowoomba at the top of the market, Sydney at 2 o’clock and starting to decline, The Whitsundays, Gladstone and Sunshine Coast approaching the top of the market and Mackay, along with Rocky, Townsville and Cairns, in a rising market. Most agents in Mackay will tell you there has been a change but there is still activity, investors are still engaged and properties are selling. Most are being alert, not alarmed.
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It was inevitable that Paige Hurley wouldn’t pursue a career in the marine tourism industry, a profession she feels passionate and energized about.
Paige was welcomed into the Cruise Whitsundays family just over a year ago, as the Reef Experience Manager, a position that she is excited to be in and where she hopes to further develop her skills.
“I’m incredibly grateful to be part of the Cruise Whitsundays business and the Reef world family,” Paige shared.
“Being a part of the Reefstay experience is something I’m really proud of. In the year I’ve been with the company, there’s been some really positive changes and lots of new faces who are just as passionate and happy to be here to deliver these amazing experiences for our guests.”
Paige is proud of the amazing experience that Cruise Whitsundays and Reefstay offers to guests.
“With the Reefstay experience we are part of people’s once in a life time travel journey which is incredible to be a part of,” Paige explained.
During her first year, she has been on national television, sharing the experience across Australia, something that excited her, and she is eager to see where else the position sends her in the future.
“I have a background in hospitality and a strong passion for the water and the Great Barrier Reef and this job has enabled me to further develop my career on the water, something that I am so excited for.”
When not on Reefstay, Paige is busy exploring the region, in the water and playing AFL.
Steadfast and confident are two words that perfectly describe the capable General Manager of Cruise Whitsundays, Renee Branton-Brown.
Heralding the team for over six years now, Renee is the impeccable head, with a clear compass of direction.
Renee joined the Cruise Whitsundays team in 2017, after an extensive history of marine tourism, which began in 2006.
“I’ve been travelling the world for most of my adult life,” she explained.
“I was fortunate to work across multiple Cruise Line Brands and travel to some of the most beautiful places on the planet.”
Her passion is ensuring that holidaymakers of the Whitsundays return home with incredible memories of their time in our waters.
“I love sharing special places with guests and sharing my enthusiasm with them. I’m in the business of making unforgettable memories!”
She is proud of the amazing experiences Cruise Whitsundays has on offer, especially the unforgettable Reefworld experience.
“I joined Cruise Whitsundays the year before we launched Reefworld,” Renee explained.
“Being a part of launching a new product and an ‘Australian first’ was pretty spectacular. I still believe our underwater accommodation Reefsuites are the most unique accommodation in the country!”
During her years, she has helped oversee a great expansion of the business.
“I’ve been part of the development of other new products, the launch of our own café and gift shop and multiple other initiatives that add so much value to the guest experience,” Renee said.
When she’s not overseeing great expansions, she is at home with her husband, her son, and all their family animals, most likely out in the sun, enjoying nature.
There is not one part of the business that Vessel Engineer Tyler Bellingham hasn’t influenced at Cruise Whitsundays, with his over 10 years of dedicated service and commitment.
In fact, Tyler is one of the hardest working team members with Cruise Whitsundays, having joined the team as a wharf porter and handling baggage, before moving into cruise attendant, tour guide, deck hand. He is now as Vessel Engineer, primarily for the beach boats that venture to Whitehaven Beach almost daily.
Initially, Tyler dreamt of driving the boats, being a captain or first mate, however just over three years ago, he discovered his real passion for engineering, for repairing broken down boats, and looking after the on-board machinery.
“I’ve always had an interest in machinery, but three years ago, I started the process,” Tyler explained.
In 2020, Tyler was in Cairns completing his first qualification, and in late 2021, he was in Tasmania at the Maritime College, excelling and impressing his lecturers and teachers.
On board the Whitehaven Beach experiences, Tyler is largely behind the scenes, ensuring guest safety and smooth sailing, instructing his two deck hands on operations.
“I’m in charge of all the machinery on board the boat,” he explained.
“And if it breaks down, I’ve got to fix it.”
Tyler finds the job incredibly interesting, and loves investigating how engines tick.
He now knows the vessel’s engines like the back of his hands, and makes the repair and operation look easy.
“It takes hard work to make it look easy,” he laughed.
When not out on the water, Tyler enjoys diving, exploring and fishing, primarily around the islands, which he is able to navigate with ease.
Whenever Ryan Guitman is behind the bar of Eastwoods Dining and Bar, impeccable does not begin to describe the calibre of beverages that he serves.
With the title of Bar Supervisor, Ryan has a careful eye over his crew of bartenders, and, with his carefully curated drinks menu, each and every guest can be rest assured that Ryan’s keen eye for detail is ensuring only the best.
Having experimented and perfected every single element of the Eastwoods Drinks Menu, Ryan knows the bar like the back of his hand.
With enticing cocktails and exciting spirit blends there is something for everyone on this menu.
Perhaps try the Duck Duck Duck, a duck fat washed rye whiskey cocktail, with plum syrup, plum bitters and angostura, inspired by the exquisite duck on the main menu.
Maybe the Maanghang Manga cocktail is more your spend, with chilli infused big river gin, mango liqueur, mango nectar, and rice wine vinegar – which is Ryan’s own favourite, inspired by his fiancé - Milena.
“These recipes have lingered in my head for a little while,” Ryan explained.
“I couldn’t wait to have the freedom to create like this. Eastwoods has given me complete free rein to try anything, and it’s so exciting.”
Now, what has been most appealing on the menu?
“The top two most popular have been the Coconut Kiss and Kisake. It’s served in a coconut and it’s so nice and refreshing, made with two shots of coconut tequila, coconut cream, kaffir syrup and lychee. The Kisake has a variety of flavours that pare so well together to create a unique summer style cocktail, made with vodka, sake, peach liqueur, lychee liqueur, mandarin juice, lemon and agave.
“But honestly, the range we have, you’ve just got to stop by and try it all!”
Ryan Guitman, the man behind Eastwoods exotic drinks menu. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge
Do you ever have the inkling to tackle an absolutely obscene amount of food and get your picture on the coveted Wall of Fame?
So has the team of KC’s Bar and Grill, having created the Not So Smally, a great challenge for one, and an ever better sharing platter for multiple.
Created in early 2023 by the KC’s team, the Not So Smally contains half a rack of sticky BBQ ribs, half a kilo of buffalo wings, one piece of southern fried chicken, onion rings, chips, slaw and pickles, some of the very best that the KC’s kitchen has to offer.
Many of the team have given the challenge a go, including Head Chef Troy Jackson and Venue Manager Jake Simpson, however, only Troy was successful to get his picture on the Wall of Fame.
In the short year that the Not So Smally has been offered, over 30 patrons have given it a go, with only four successful.
“I didn’t even get close to finishing it,” Jake explained.
With just 10 minutes on the clock to get the meal down, the challenge is made sweeter with the inclusion of spicy wings, which had heat and intensity.
Jake’s tips to getting it all down?
“Start with the meat first. I know a lot of people want to save the wings for last, but don’t, the spice just makes it a lot harder. The killer is the chips. The potato just dries out your mouth and makes everything harder. Mixing the chips and slaw is a good option too.”
The Not So Smally Challenge, stumping grill lovers in Airlie Beach. Photo supplied
Perfection and pasta go hand in hand.
As least, that’s what we believe when we pay a visit to La Tabella Italian.
With an extensive menu encompassing all things Italian, the range and variety of pasta dishes is where the magic lies.
Made fresh daily, with all local produce and hand made ingredients, each and every strand, ball and parcel of pasta is lovingly hand shaped, moulded, and stretched.
And, according to new owner Brittany Panapa, there is no secret except perfect consistency.
“We have not changed a thing, the secret is just consistency; staff chefs, same recipe, same passion,” Brittany explained.
The day at La Tabella begins at 9.30am, with the three pastai [the chefs who carefully create the pasta] coming in and crafting the kilos of pasta required for the full day of service for the restaurant.
“We make and serve so much pasta daily. And we’ve got so many different types,” Brittany explained.
“We’ve got the usual spaghetti, fettuccine, gnocchi, as well as a range of more distinct and flavour-filled pastas that enhance each and every sauce on offer at La Tabella.
“Hands down, the Seafood Spaghetti is one of our most popular dishes, with prawns, scallops, calamari, reef fish, mussels and Napoli rose sauce, it is delicious, with this rich sauce, all made from scratch too,” Brittany explained.
And with exciting updates to come to the La Tabella Restaurant, guests can be left excited to come and try every single dish on offer!
The boys from Sex and Chocolate are back and ready to work their magic in Airlie Beach over next weekend, at the Airlie Beach Hotel.
With their intimate Motown II Millennia show, the Sex and Chocolate boys are ready to give Airlie Beach a show not to be missed.
With smooth tunes and unforgettable dance moves, Sex and Chocolate draw inspiration from classic Motown, R&B, and soul, with hits from Stevie Wonder, The Temptations, The Spinners, Earth Wind and Fire, Prince, Bruno Mars, Outkast, and Bill Ocean, there will be something for everyone.
Featuring the vocals and appeal of Paul Thompson and his team, Mikey, Wilz, and Maihi, three award-winning sensations that dominate, the boys will perform this personal show to a crowded dance floor.
With every rendition of this up-close and personal show, the boys of Sex and Chocolate have perfected their craft, wowing audiences throughout the two-hour show, and leaving every single person entertained and entranced.
The boys have shared their excitement to be performing to the Airlie Beach crowd once again, wanting to make sure the ladies feel extra special on the day.
Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays has become a favourite for the group, returning for the umpteenth time to entertain the unforgettable Airlie crowd, their classic temptations of sex, charisma, and romance leading the show.
With over 20 years’ experience in the entertainment trade, these boys have perfectly smooth harmonies and sensual dance moves and are always ready to serenade the crowd through the two afternoon shows.
While, yes, Sex and Chocolate are very popular with the ladies – there’s no denying that - but all are welcome to this charismatic show, where the only stripping is the boys’ smooth harmonies and powerful dance moves.
Indulge in this weekend special at the Airlie Beach Hotel and experience the most romantic show of the year, with the highly sought-after boys as they travel Australia, sharing their love.
Expect to be swooned by smooth talking, engaging tunes that will ease the workday blues right out of you.
WHAT: Sex & Chocolate presents Motown II Millennia
WHEN: January 13 and 14, from 2pm to 5.30pm
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
Photos supplied
Airlie Beach parkrun is celebrating a milestone and everyone is invited!
Airlie Beach parkrun is completing their 400th community Park Run, and the theme is Pirate.
The first Airlie Beach parkrun began on December 5, 2015, and has seen over 5,700 people attend the weekly run, completing close to 30,000 park runs, and over 140,000 kilometres.
With an average of 70 runners each and every week, this park run has been completed in rain, sun, and the barmy summer warmth.
Airlie Beach parkrun statistics:
Finishers: 5,727
Finishes: 28,077
Average finishers per week: 70.4
Volunteers: 451
PBs: 3,230
Average finish time: 00:33:10
Average finishes per participant: 4.9
Groups: 514
Female record: Megan DAVIS – 18:16 – Event 372 (8 Jul 2023)
Male record: Tony GORDON – 15:55 – Event 285 (13 Nov 2021)
Age graded record: Pamela WHITTER - 88.17% 21:42 – Event 227 (1 Feb 2020)
So next Saturday, come dressed in your best pirate outfit and enjoy the festivities.
WHAT: 400th parkrun
WHERE: Coral Sea Marina
WHEN: Saturday January 6, from 7am
SIGN UP: https://www.parkrun.com.au/register/?eventName=airliebeach
Volunteers of the 399th Airlie Beach parkrun. Photo supplied
One of the world’s biggest sailing challenges, The Clipper Race is steering into the Whitsundays, as part of the Asia-Pacific leg of the 40,000 nautical mile race.
As of date of print, the Clipper Race has been sailing for 48 days, with each vessel a mammoth 70-foot ocean racing yacht.
Having kicked off in September, the crews have braved wild weather, harsh winds, and glorious sunshine.
Championed by Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, the first individual to sail solo, uninterrupted around the world, the first Clipper Race took place in 1996.
Since then, close to 6,000 sailors, from over 60 countries have signed on to the challenge.
The Clipper Race is unique, with it being the only race to supply racers a fleet of 11 identical racing yachts, which have a fully qualified skipper and first mate. Crews must complete four levels of intense ocean racer training before they can compete.
Clipper Racers are estimated to arrive in the Whitsundays from January 16 to 17, and competitors will have a rest before the race kicks back off on January 22.
The Clipper Race is set to conclude in July this year, from East Coast, United States of America, back to the United Kingdom.
Stopping over in at Coral Sea Marina, as part of the Asia-Pacific leg of the race, the community are welcome to see the majesty racers and their vessels.
The Coral Sea Marina is also welcoming all to tour on of the Clipper 70 Racing Yachts. With above and below deck tours, you can see the very vessel that is crossing the ocean six times over the 40,000 nautical miles.
On deck, test your skills with one of the eleven winches, that hoist the sails over 29 metre mast. Below deck, explore the Navigation Station, galley, bunks, stowage and see where the 20 Clipper Race Crew live.
This opportunity is on Friday January 29, from 10am to 3pm, at the Coral Sea Marina. All ages welcome at no cost.
Community members are also invited to witness these Clipper crews race it out on the small screen, using Whitsunday Sailing Club RS Quest dinghies, for the monumental Little Ripper Clipper Cup.
The next added extra of this fantastic event is the invitation to witness the beginning of the next leg of the race.
The fleet of 11 will line up in Pioneer Bay, before jetting past the Great Barrier Reef to start Race 5. Community members are welcome to witness this parade from the water, or you can watch the departure from the ground at the south end of the Coral Sea Marina.
WHAT: Little Ripper Clipper Cup
WHERE: Whitsunday Sailing Club
WHEN: Thursday January 18, from 11am
WHAT: Tour a Clipper 70 Racing Yacht
WHERE: Coral Sea Marina
WHEN: Friday, January 19, from 10am to 3pm
WHAT: Meet the Aussie Locals
WHERE: Coral Sea Marina Gardens
WHEN: Saturday January 20, from 4pm to 6pm
WHAT: Parade of Sails, Clipper Race
WHERE: Coral Sea Marina
WHEN: Monday, January 22, from 12 to 1.30pm
The winning crew of Race 4, Ha Long Bay Viet Nam, who are currently 7th place. Image supplied
Are you considering a career shift in 2024? Wanting to diversify your skillset and expand your qualifications?
Here are the trades set to boom in 2024!
Green Energy
Turning away from environmentally unsustainable practices, the clean energy sector will see unprecedented increase, with skilled workers flocking to be active in eco-friendly practices and become more sustainable.
Such positions in green energy set to see an increase in demand are solar panel installers, wind turbine technicians and electrical engineers, who are able to service and install green energy components.
Construction
Construction, particularly the computer design aspects of construction, are set to boom in popularity. Particularly with the integration of automated computer software and artificial intelligence, individuals educated and able to navigate this ever-evolving technical landscape will be in high demand.
Construction will also be highly demanded, due to the increase of home ownership aspirations, and Australian government incentives to purchase land and home packages to ease housing concerns.
Plumbers, Electricians, and Welders
Highly interconnected with construction, trades of electricians, plumbers and welders will experience unprecedented growth, in part to the increase of construction projects. Installing and servicing all systems from general electrical wiring to install and service of solar panels, with plumbers tending to expand their trade offer to include septic tanks, hot water systems and water filters, the roles of these trades have dramatically expanded.
With 2024 just beginning, now is a great time to take advantage of TAFE Fee Free courses, hosted through TAFE and CQ University. Visit TAFE Queensland to learn more.
As the temperatures rise and summer approaches, industries and trade sectors must adapt to the seasonal changes to maintain optimal productivity and employee well-being. Implementing best summer practices is crucial for businesses to thrive in the warmer months.
1. Flexible Scheduling: Consider introducing flexible work hours or remote work options. This not only helps employees beat the summer heat but also promotes a healthier work-life balance, leading to increased job satisfaction and productivity.
2. Heat Stress Prevention: For industries requiring outdoor work, prioritise employee safety by providing proper training on heat stress prevention. Encourage regular breaks, hydration, and the use of personal protective equipment suitable for warmer conditions.
3. Energy Efficiency Initiatives: Summer often brings higher energy demands. Implement energy-efficient practices, such as optimising air conditioning systems, using natural light, and adopting eco-friendly technologies, to reduce operational costs and environmental impact.
4. Supply Chain Optimisation: Summer can bring disruptions to supply chains due to weather-related issues. Develop contingency plans, diversify suppliers, and maintain open communication to mitigate potential disruptions and ensure a seamless flow of goods and services.
5. Employee Engagement Programs: Boost morale and team spirit by organising summer-themed employee engagement programs. This could include team-building events, outdoor activities, or casual dress codes to create a positive and enjoyable work atmosphere.
6. Inventory Management: Seasonal fluctuations in demand may occur, especially in construction and manufacturing. Optimise inventory management by forecasting demand accurately, adjusting production schedules, and ensuring adequate stock levels to meet customer needs during peak summer periods.
By incorporating these best summer practices, industries and trade sectors can navigate the challenges of the season, enhance employee satisfaction, and maintain efficient operations for sustained success.
Staysafe on the job this summer. Photo supplied
Earlier in December, the Mackay Showgrounds hosted more than 1,200 children and family members to join the 30th anniversary of The Special Children’s Christmas Party. This festive occasion catered to children facing disabilities, complex needs, and social disadvantages, providing a day filled with enchantment.
Featuring performances by talented artists like Keely Johnson, Dance Like an Animal, Sensory Circus Tribe, and the Mackay Choral Society, the event embraced the spirit of the holiday season.
With each child receiving a thoughtful gift and having a special encounter with Santa Claus, this celebration aimed to create lasting memories for young hearts. The invitation was extended to mainstream and specialist schools plus charities, refuges, and government organisations, showcasing the inclusive nature of the event.
Event manager Ally Young said this year’s party at the Mackay Showgrounds marked the 30th anniversary of the event.
“The Mackay party was one of 18 across Australia and New Zealand, catering for more than 35,000 children with disabilities, complex needs, and social disadvantages,” Ms Young said.
“The children, from babies to 12 years of age, may have serious illnesses, physical or intellectual impairments or social disadvantages.”
Children travelled with their families and carers from as far north as Bowen, including Whitsunday regional areas from as far out west as Collinsville, Claremont, Capella and as far south as Koumala and all the points in between to the Mackay party where they met new friends and enjoyed a very special day.
Ms Young acknowledged the support of the Central Queensland business community, partners, and volunteers.
Emergency service personnel are among 100 volunteers who have rallied to help set up and dismantle displays, help with catering and hand out toys.
“Some who attended the party in their childhood have also returned as volunteers.”
“Quality gifts will be given to every child, and they will meet the biggest star of all, Santa!
“This will be the first party for some of the younger children, a day they will cherish always.”
This long-standing tradition, born out of a 1979 United Nations initiative, continues to embody the essence of joy, unity, and inclusivity, bringing together communities and offering a heart-warming experience to every child involved.
Photo credit: Tanya D'Herville
Children embrace the joy of the holiday season, meeting Santa Claus at The Special Children’s Christmas Party in Mackay. Photo supplied
For the past few weeks families from around the region have been stopping by the festively decorated cane-mulch train in Stathdickie to get their annual Christmas pics.
Last week, some lucky children were fortunate enough to get the ‘real’ Santa experience when our much-loved local Santa swung by for a special visit to let us know he was well-prepared for the coming days.
“I am absolutely ready for the big day – Mrs Claus has been working up a storm with the elves in the workshop,” he said.
“My special elf Engelbart, has Big Red One ready to go, I’ve got all the presents loaded up and ready to put in the sleigh – we are so ready you wouldn’t believe it!”
The festive creation that pops-up from seemingly no-where each Christmas at the corner of Gregory-Cannonvalley Road and Telford Road in Strathdickie is a source of wonder to children (and many adults) from across the region at this time every year.
From ginormous cane-mulch Christmas trees to chimneys and snowmen, every year a different creation appears in the same spot, to the delight of onlookers who show their approval with festive beeps on the horn as they drive by.
Very little is known, however, about the creators themselves, but this year the secret is out and the family behind the incredible displays are sharing their story.
Since 2015 the Lee family who are local cane farmers, have been behind researching, creating and safely managing the giant festive structures.
Laurie, Carmel, Micheal, and Caroline are the busy elves behind each project which began with the simple and heartfelt desire to bring joy to the region.
“Every year we try and think of something different,” said Caroline.
“It’s just amazing to see how many local people, and even visitors to the region, love seeing it – they are always asking – ‘what are you doing next year?’
“They love coming and having their family photos here every year and we just love it!”
This year the family engaged with the local sugar mill in Proserpine and shared their idea, swearing the mill to secrecy until the creation was launched.
Borrowing old greasy wheels, they cleaned them up and then placed the heavy cane mulch bales on top to form carriages for the loco.
They were then fortunate to get a kind donation from the mill, giving them an old loco cabin to lead the cane train.
This has since proved very popular with the children who have enjoyed climbing inside and exploring the piece of machinery.
Atop the cane bales, colourful presents are being transported and at the front, a stuffed Santa takes pride of place.
“The kids have loved getting in there and experiencing it!” said Caroline.
“It’s been really good for the area I think.”
While every year the Lee family question if they will do it again the following year, they say they see how much joy it brings to the region and simply have to keep going with their festive passion project.
Hi Everyone,
Merry Christmas to you all!
Thank you for reading this newspaper for yet another year, we’ve really enjoyed delivering your free weekly news and are already looking forward to another great year in 2024!
Thank you also to everyone in our amazing team, from the journos to the sales team, the graphic designers to admin queens – each and every one of you do an amazing job and give 100 per cent every day.
As I write this, I am about to head out the door on holiday for a month – we are heading over to the UK via France where we are meeting family for a week skiing.
I am very excited to be heading off for a white Christmas – my first one in over five years – and will be leaving you all in the very capable hands of Bronte who will be overseeing editorial while I am away.
Good luck Bronte!
On the front page this week you will see a wonderful photo of the Christmas Cane Train.
I love this photo because it is not only a wonderful example of Christmas spirit, it is also a wonderful example of what we stand for here at the paper – we love going the extra mile for a real, genuine community story.
While at Whitsunday Plaza a few weeks ago I watched in awe as the resident Santa swept everyone up with his incredible personality. His infectious energy caused children to literally follow in his wake as he walked around the centre.
He is the best Santa I’ve ever seen!
Later that week, miraculously I managed to find him on Facebook, and I invited him to be on the front page of the Christmas edition.
At the same time, I got talking with Caroline (the creator of the Christmas Cane Train) and she agreed for us to hold the photo shoot there.
She offered to engage Rebecca Telford who, within a few hours, kindly managed to round up a small army of children.
We met early one morning for the photo shoot and the atmosphere was magic!
Thank you to everyone who participated in this special photo – it really shows what is most important about Christmas – coming together as a community.
Rach
Quote of the Week: “How beautiful it is to do nothing . . . and then rest afterwards”
A Whitsunday Regional Council Spokesperson has confirmed that budget supermarket chain Aldi has lodged a development application to Council.
Only in early stages of Council’s and State Government’s assessments, the supermarket giant has proposed construction on the vacant block of land, 7-11 Central Avenue, backing onto Shute Harbour Road in Cannonvale.
The proposed Aldi store, according to the Development Application, will be 1,778 square metres and have 106 car spaces.
The Development Application outlines Aldi as being “one of the world’s largest retail companies,” operating in “16 countries with more than 7,500 stores worldwide.”
“Unlike the larger supermarket chains of Coles and Woolworths,” the Application states, “ALDI does not try to be a “one-stop shop”.
“Unlike Woolworths and Coles supermarkets ALDI offers a core range of around 1,300 products which is constantly reviewed to meet changing tastes and preferences, which is far fewer than the 30,000 items that a mainstream supermarket might stock.
“ALDI focuses on offering customers a range of exclusive brand, top quality products at low prices, by offering a breadth of, but not depth of products, with no more than two different brands offered for any one product.”
The new store would offer approximately 15 new jobs to the region, the Application outlines, with an “hourly rate of about $29 per hour, compared to the industry average of less than $22 per hour.”
This is after the construction of a KFC restaurant was approved by Council earlier this year, with construction beginning on the site recently, and expected to open mid-2024.
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