Ahead of their Christmas pop-up shop for low-income families, the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre is inviting kind-heated community members to contribute brand-new un-wrapped gifts as part of their annual toy drive.

Those interested are asked to simply register on Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre’s Facebook page before December 10, purchase the gifts and bring them into the centre.

Then, on December 15, the pop-up toy shop will be opened to low-income families so they can each select a present for their children to enjoy opening at Christmas.

Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre Chief Operations Officer, Rebecca Woods, says this is a great opportunity for people who had previously liked purchasing gifts for their Adopt a Family campaign.

“We started doing gift cards for Adopt a Family a few years ago,” she explained.

“So, this Toy Drive is a great for people who like buying gifts instead.

“We wanted to open it up to the community because we understand that the community recognise the cost-of-living crisis and want to contribute.”

The pop-up Christmas shop is open to eligible families only and they must satisfy specific criteria in order to qualify.

The eligibility is also related to geography and only residents in the Greater Airlie Beach Area qualify.

If you wish to register, please contact the centre.

For those wanting to contribute a gift, register on Facebook or if you would prefer to offer a gift card to a family in need then please register for the Adopt a Family campaign instead.

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Donate a brand-new un-wrapped gift for a family in need this Christmas. Photo supplied

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Uniting a passion for yoga with a love for location, local Yoga Teacher Norma Strang is opening the doors to a series of new yoga classes with stunning views across Coral Sea Marina.

Located at the Lookout Lounge above the bustling marina village, Yoga + 5 is a place where you can step away from the busy world below and connect with yourself, discovering inner-peace and life balance along the way.

A yoga teacher for the past 20 years, Norma has operated four yoga studios around the country, most recently in Byron Bay before moving to the Whitsundays 18 months ago.

With a wealth of experience that spans many aspects of health and healing, Norma is a qualified health coach who also runs retreats and detox programs.

She now brings this spectrum of devotion into her yoga practice, showing participants a deeper more meaningful form of yoga that is often not found in more modern practices.

“Yoga is about connection with yourself, with God and with the Spirit,” said Norma.

Beginning her classes with therapeutic postures, Norma shows her students how to get more oxygen moving around their bodies through different asanas.

While different positions are explored, she explains the merits of each one, whether that be for detoxing the kidneys or working on the thyroid which is excellent for weight loss.

Norma then moves onto the Five Tibetan Rites, a practice that is over 2,500 years old but rarely used these days.

“It works on the Chakra system,” explains Norma.

“They call it the fountain of youth because it works through the endocrine system which is the energetic system of the body and helps with aging.”

The class then finishes with a deep meditation to re-energise.

A strong believer that yoga is for everybody, Norma says that “you are never too old, it’s never too late and you’re never too sick to start from scratch”.

She hopes that everyone feels welcome in her class and assures each attendee that an individual approach will be taken where intuition is used to best serve each participant.

If you are looking for a relaxed, connective experience in a stunning location with a highly skilled teacher, then take a free trial class with Norma.

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Though confronting, having difficult conversations can be catalysts for growth, while also building better relationships, trust and respect.

Next time you encounter a challenging exchange, consider these three strategies:

Create a safe space:

Every individual values the right to openly express their thoughts and concerns without fear of judgment or repercussions. You can create this environment by the simple act of offering your undivided attention. When the other person is speaking, set aside distractions or the urge to make your own points.

Apply full body listening without interrupting. This is the time to show you are listening rather than rushing to make your own point heard.

While it’s natural to be rooted in our own perspectives, challenging conversations necessitate empathy so that the other person can feel heard, understood, and valued.

Achieving this connection will help guide a more meaningful conversation towards a solution or resolution.

Discover common ground:

It’s much easier to navigate a difficult conversation when there is a shared goal and reiterating that objective can unite all parties.

Consider what it is that everyone in the conversation wants or needs. You will usually find common ground.

Keep emotions in check:

Emotions are highly contagious, so if you enter a difficult discussion with your emotions laid bare, it’s likely things will derail pretty quickly.

Pay careful attention to your tone of voice, body language, and choice of words. Non-verbal cues can wield significant influence over how your message is received. Strive to maintain a demeanour that conveys respect and receptivity.

The goal is to respond, not react.

Words like “I’m disappointed” or “You could have” can come across as accusatory. Instead, focus on stating facts, seek the other person’s perspective, and share your own experiences.

If emotions flare up, take time to pause and compose yourself before continuing.

In essence, don’t shy away from difficult conversations; they need to be had to keep things moving forward. By approaching the conversation in the right way, you, your team, productivity, and company culture will benefit hugely.

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Libraries Team Leader
Whitsunday Regional Council

If you are a regular at our Council libraries in Proserpine, Bowen, or Collinsville then you will recognise the smiling face of Whitsunday Regional Libraries Team Leader Robyn Batman.

Robyn started with Council in 2005 as a Customer Service Officer when it was Whitsunday Shire Council before being promoted to the role of Team Leader- Proserpine Library in 2009. She held that role until 2014 before leaving to work at a local solicitor as a legal secretary.

Her passion for the library role became too great and Robyn rejoined Council in 2017 as Team leader – Proserpine Library, just one week before Cyclone Debbie and the rest is history!

Robyn says her previous background in administration and supervisory roles in large corporate organisations gave her the skillset to lead effective teams and deliver high quality customer service to the community. She also boasts a Diploma of Library and Information Services that qualifies her as a library technician.

“My main responsibilities involve providing co-ordination and management of the Bowen, Collinsville and Proserpine Libraries to achieve the libraries' goals and objectives with a focus on creating a positive, productive and fun culture within my teams,” she said.

“I supervise 11 library staff and pride myself on leading by example and mentoring my staff who are all passionate about the role they play for our community.

“Libraries are my passion, and I am a huge believer in giving 110 per cent in everything I do. I love connecting with the community and working with my teams to provide a valuable and much needed service to the region,” she said.

Under Robyn’s leadership the libraries have recently introduced a mobile library App which acts as a one stop shop for all of Council library services.

Other initiatives that Robyn has collaborated with other departments in Council and local businesses to roll out include:

· Repurposing of a Whitsunday Regional Council trailer into a Pop-Up Library including the interior redesign and exterior branding

· Design and implementation of the Whitsunday Regional Libraries logo and branding

· Rebranding of all WRC external library facilities across the region

· Refurbishment of the Bowen Library with all new shelving in line with SLQ Standards and Guidelines.

In her spare time Robyn loves reading, crocheting, and spending time outdoors with her family. She has also run marathons in Sydney and London.

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As the clock ticks down to the end of year, businesses are charging ahead at capacity. Retail is strong, building experiencing the usual rush and hospitality has had a great few weeks with the Airlie Beach Music Festival, followed by schoolies bringing plenty of visitors. With an unexpected cruise ship visit last weekend, Airlie Beach was literally heaving with people!

Business preparation – Are you ready for the silly season? No matter what business you’re in, now is the time to prepare for the next few months. Regular staff may be away – Is your staffing mix right? Do you have a plan for stock and deliveries? Are you prepared for extreme weather events, disaster, or disruption? Always worth a rethink and review.  

It is also a time of closing off the calendar year. A time to say thanks to your team, customers, and our local community for their support.

Vision for the Whitsundays – What does the Whitsundays of the future looks like?

What are the current major drivers of change and points of resistance? What we need to do now to future proof tomorrow? We are tackling these questions in our Vision for the Whitsundays project. Formal submissions and the quick online survey must close 1 December.

Next events – See you at our final Pop Up Chamber for 2023 from 7:30am Wednesday 29 November in Proserpine. Come on down and meet the Chamber team, other business owners, and grab a coffee to start your day.

Please also join us for the ultimate end of year celebration for the Whitsundays business community – a joint Chamber and Tourism Whitsundays networking event from 6:00pm Thursday 30 November 2023 at the Reef Gateway Hotel, Cannonvale.

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RETURNS AFTER THREE YEAR HIATUS

The local wedding industry just got bigger, bolder, and more exciting thanks to the newly rejuvenated Mackay and Whitsunday Annual Wedding Expo which is due to take place at the MECC on Sunday, 4 February, from 10am - 1pm.

Launched in 2020 by local wedding and event specialist Ramona Burki from Element Events by Ramona, the Mackay and Whitsunday Wedding Expo was a huge success, but future plans were halted by the pandemic until the event became re-charged for 2024.

Save The Date!

Stall Holders And Couples Invited To Annual Wedding Expo

Bringing the wedding community together and connecting couples with a wealth of reputable local suppliers, the Mackay and Whitsunday Annual Wedding Expo is expected to reinvigorate the local wedding industry.

Due to be held in February 2024, the MECC is set to be a vibrant marketplace for up to 70 stall holders and hundreds of couples are anticipated to pass through the venue over the course of the day.

“The Expo gives couples a chance to meet with an extensive collection of Wedding professionals under one roof,” said event organiser Ramona Burki.

Having worked in the local wedding and event industry for 20 years, eight of those operating her own event business, Ramona is highly adept at understanding what couples need when planning a wedding and she is looking forward to bringing a selection of industry specialists together for the Expo.

“We are creating a vibrant and supportive space for wedding and event professionals to connect with and inspire our community,” explained Ramona.

“The Expo will be a place where you can meet your celebrant, find your photographer, decide on your hair and make-up, look at cake suppliers, check out venues, organise catering and so much more!

“Anything you want or need for your wedding day can be found at the Expo.”

An engaging and interactive experience, the Mackay and Whitsunday Annual Wedding Expo will include a range of activities and showcases.

From the moment you enter the Expo expect to be delighted.

You will receive a showbag containing contact information from all the suppliers present on the day and then invited to browse the large exhibition.

Guests can also enjoy a Fashion Parade where local bridal boutiques will exhibit some of their finest wedding gowns, formal wear, and men’s suits.

In between shows there will be live entertainment and an Emcee speaking with individual exhibitors to find out more about their services.

The Mackay and Whitsunday Annual Wedding Expo is proudly endorsed by supporting partners Core Life Magazine and redhotblue Creative Agency.

Both major local businesses are proud to get behind such a significant regional event.

“Even in this digital world, it’s always really nice to have a tangible experience and speak directly to a variety of operators,” said Jody Euler, Director of redhotblue.

“Time is now of the essence, and exhibitor booths are filling up fast, so we are urging suppliers to register now and secure their participation.”

To register email hello@elementevents.net.au.

WHAT: Mackay and Whitsunday Annual Wedding Expo

WHERE: The MECC

WHEN: Sunday, 4 February

TIME: 10am – 3pm

ENTRY: Free

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Organiser, Ramona Burki, says that hundreds of couples are expected to attend the Mackay and Whitsunday Annual Wedding Expo. Photo credit: Alyce Holzy

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As the mercury rises, this week’s good deed is a reminder to stay vigilant around water.

Sherry Ferguson, in a heartfelt message on the Mums and Bubs of Mackay & the Whitsundays Facebook group, recounted a recent heart-stopping incident that transformed into a tale of immense gratitude towards local heroes. During a family outing at the Bluewater Lagoon, an unforeseen turn of events unfolded when Sherry's daughter, aged 19, found herself facing a nerve-wracking situation. While enjoying the day with her partner and their 4-month-old baby, Sherry’s daughter was supervising her younger brother, just 8 years old, in the water. Suddenly, the younger boy drifted into deeper waters and struggled, realising he couldn't touch the bottom and went under the water.

"The lifeguards got him out and took him to a room there and called the ambulance," Sherry posted.

Expressing immense thanks for the lifeguards' prompt and heroic response, Sherry extended heartfelt gratitude to these vigilant individuals and the responsive ambulance officers.

Sherry said the family spent a few hours at hospital before being discharged.

Thank you to the heroes in red and yellow who make the water a safer place.

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Ah, cyclone season—when the skies turn ominous, and we find ourselves glued to weather forecasts more than our favourite TV series. Here in Mackay, November through April is our version of a rollercoaster ride, with storms and cyclones potentially on the horizon. In Mackay Life, we've just wrapped up four weeks of disaster preparedness, reminding us that being ready for anything nature throws our way is not just a suggestion but a necessity. Our final Disaster Month feature can be found on pages 18-19 in this edition.

The SES has been busy sharing invaluable 'get ready' tips, and local experts have pitched in, offering advice on fortifying our properties against the elements. Floods, fires, cyclones—the unpredictability of Mother Nature keeps us all on our toes, reinforcing the importance of being prepared to endure for at least three days without our usual comforts.

Crafting a Household Evacuation Plan is more than a precaution—it's a lifeline in times of crisis. Five crucial actions should be part of every family's strategy: understanding when it's time to leave, identifying safe destinations, planning transportation methods, packing essentials, and nurturing a sense of community by knowing and supporting your neighbours.

For Mackay-specific emergency guidance, the Mackay Regional Council's Emergency Action Guide is an invaluable resource. It's more than a mere checklist; it's a guide to safeguarding what matters most—our families, our homes, and our community.

In a region where storm clouds aren't just scenery but a seasonal visitor, readiness isn't just a virtue; it's a necessity. As we navigate this period, let's stay informed, stay prepared, and most importantly, stay safe. Because in the face of nature's fury, being ready is our best defence.

Amanda

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A secret audit of Queensland’s roads has revealed almost half of Queensland’s Bruce Highway has a two-star safety rating or less.

Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, said he is disappointed but not surprised the electorate of Dawson had the lowest overall star rating, with 63.4 per cent rated two stars or lower.

Mr Willcox said much needed infrastructure projects like the Mackay Ring Road Stage 2 and the Goorganga Plains Flood Immunity project have been delayed by the Australian Government’s 90-day review.

“The previous Coalition Government committed $10 billion towards much needed safety upgrades on the Bruce, and instead of the new government grabbing the horse by the reins and just getting on with it, they have held these projects up further in a 90-day review which has blown out to over 200 days,” he said.

“This is unacceptable to have these projects with committed funding just sitting dormant.

“Earlier this year during our wet season and following flooding, QLD Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Mark Bailey visited Mackay to inspect flood damage and announced alongside State Member for Mackay that ‘it’s good to see that our roads have held up as well as they have’.

“It was extremely disappointing to hear this from the State Local Member and her Minister when I had constituents contacting my office with safety concerns and pothole complaints.

“Our state representatives know Dawson’s economic contributions and they should have us travelling on gold plated roads, but instead we have the worst roads in the state.”

Mr Willcox said he is pleased that no projects in Dawson will be scrapped following the review.

“Now that we are over this ridiculous and unnecessary review, I am calling for no more delays,” he said.

“Both the Albanese and Palaszczuk governments need to stop dragging the chain, stop playing the blame game, stop arguing, and just get on with your jobs.”

The Queensland Government conducted the audit following a right to information search by Nationals Member for Wide Bay Llew O’Brien revealing road safety data provided to state governments by the Australian Road Assessment Program (AusRAP).

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Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox

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Mackay Man Dies 13 Days After Car Crash

A serious traffic crash occurred in St Lawrence, south of Mackay on 7th November. Early investigations indicated that a truck left the Bruce Highway and crashed into a tree near Wumalgi Road, around 7am.

At the time the driver and sole occupant of the vehicle, a 55-year-old man from Rural View, was flown to Rockhampton Base Hospital in a critical condition.

Queensland Police Service released a statement on 20th November informing the public that the 55-year-old man has since passed away from critical injuries in the Rockhampton Base Hospital, thirteen days after the fatal incident.

The Forensic Crash Unit are investigating the crash and police will prepare a report for the coroner. Anyone with information about the crash, or who has dashcam vision, is urged to contact police.

Community Watch

There has been a series of stolen vehicle occurrences around the Mackay region over the past month. Distressed individuals have been updating the Mackay Crime Watch Facebook page with images, CCTV footage and descriptions of the thieves responsible.

• Silver Landcruiser in Bronte St, West Mackay

• Red Commodore in North Mackay

• Blue Suzuki at BB Print Stadium

• White Prado in Rural View

• Isuzu D-max in East Mackay

• Nissan Qashqai on Mansfield Drive, Beaconsfield

• Red Nissan Juke in Sarina

• Grey Prado in Walkerston

• Break-in attempt on Drake Drive in Paget

• Broken rear passenger window on Ready Street

If you have information, contact Policelink at police.qld.gov.au/reporting or report anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at crimestoppersqld.com.au

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Officially Opened At CQ University

The Mackay campus of CQ University has officially opened a new room, dedicated to First Nations students, staff and community members.

The new room provides a safe environment that is culturally rich, for students, staff, and the community to have a space for study and independent work.

Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Nick Klomp said the space was an “incredibly important addition to the campus”.

“CQUniversity is proud to be one of Australia’s most accessible and inclusive universities, in particular, we are focused on transformative engagement and partnership with First Nations staff, students and communities,” Professor Klomp said.

“All of our campuses stand on Country that has been cared for by First Nations communities for tens of thousands of years. Importantly, they have been places of learning for countless generations before us. That’s why we are so proud to continue to endorse the Uluru Statement from the Heart and constitutional recognition, and why we are forging ahead with the implementation of our latest Reconciliation Action Plan.”

Officially opened in a ceremony with over 70 people in attendance, including Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson, the event saw a Welcome to Country conducted by Elder Uncle Philip Kemp.

“We hope that the culturally safe space will provide a haven on campus where First Nations people feel comfortable and confident expressing their views, perspectives and ideas,” Professor Klomp said.

“From a student perspective, our hope is that this culturally safe space will empower our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community to achieve their higher education goals.”

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Mayor Greg Williamson, Uncle Philip Kemp, Mellisa Taggart, Vice-Chancellor Professor Nick Klomp, and Jade Carroll. Photo credit: Bill Jewell

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Mackay Regional Council have kicked in $10,000 to boost festive celebrations in regional areas like Grasstree Beach, Calen, Midge Point and Marian.

From carols to morning teas, movie nights to lolly drops and everything in between – the Mackay region will be buzzing with festive fun.

Christmas Grants were awarded to 13 exciting events and Mackay City Band was also supported to perform at a number of community carols and Christmas events, like the Habana carols and various retirement village performances.

To qualify for the grants, applicants needed to be not-for-profit organisations and the celebrations had to be open and welcoming to everyone.

Events supported included:

• McEwens Beach Christmas event – Saturday, November 18, from 5pm to 7pm at Reg Jones Park, McEwens Beach

• Balnagowan Christmas event – Saturday, November 25, from 2pm to 7pm at 192 Pleystowe Connection Road, Balnagowan.

• St Helens Beach Christmas Lights Competition – Friday, December 1, to Thursday, December 14, at St Helens Beach.

• Armstrong Beach Progress Association Christmas event – Saturday, December 2, from 4pm to 8pm at Llewellyn Hall, 681 Armstrong Beach.

• Calen Christmas event – Saturday, December 2, from 5.30pm to 9pm at Calen District State College, McIntyre Street.

• Mackay Northern Beaches Neighbourhood Watch Christmas event – Friday, December 8, from 5pm to 8pm at Shoal Point Park, Obrien Esplanade

• Beachside Family Christmas – Saturday, December 9, from 3pm at Grasstree Beach, The Esplanade

• Midge Point Christmas Event – Saturday, December 9, from 3pm to dusk at Nielsen Parade, Midge Point

• Mackay Aeroclub Christmas party – Friday, December 15, from 4.30pm at 1 Casey Avenue, South Mackay

• Sarina Beach Christmas Fair – Friday, December 15, from 5pm to 8pm at Sarina Beach, Owen Jenkins Drive

• Sarina Surf Lifesaving Club Carols by Candlelight – Sunday, December 16, from 5.30pm to 8.30pm at Sarina Beach, Owen Jenkins Drive

• Christmas morning tea for older members of the Pioneer Valley community – Saturday, December 23, from 5.30pm to 8.30pm at Melba House, Edward Lloyd Park, Marian

• Habana Carols Under the Stars – Saturday, December 23, from 7pm to 9.30pm at Habana Community Hub, 1091 Mackay-Habana Road

Council is also supporting the following events:

City Heart Christmas

Friday, December 1, from 4pm to 8pm

Mackay City Centre

Check out the Fifth Lane Christmas Markets and join in the City Heart scavenger hunt. There will be late-night shopping, kids' activities, face painting, Christmas craft and games, carollers, live music and the jolly man in the red suit will even make a visit.

Carols in the Gardens

Saturday, December 2, from 4.30pm (carols start at 6.30pm)

Meadowlands Amphitheatre, Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens

Get into the Christmas spirit at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens. Carols will kick off at 6.30pm. Gates open at 4.30pm, so come down and secure your spot and enjoy the free kids' activities on offer. There will also be plenty of food vendors to grab a bite to eat.

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The Mackay Tiger Moth Museum Inc is a long-standing non-profit organisation, run by local volunteers who possess a proud passion for aviation.

The group began in 1974, when the founding members of the group, formerly known as The Tiger Moth Trust banded together to purchase a Tiger Moth that had been restored locally and was in danger of being sold to America.

Support was gathered from the Mackay community to purchase the Tiger Moth and the Trust (now The Mackay Tiger Moth Museum) was formed to administer the operation.

The two Tiger Moth aircraft are owned by the Mackay community with one being christened the “City of Mackay” to confirm its ownership.

The trust became an incorporated museum with tax-deductible status, run totally by voluntary efforts for administration, crewing, and pilots. It is a labour of love, as none of the members receive remuneration for their efforts.

The Tiger Moth Museum currently operates two aeroplanes, the VH-IVN and the VH-CYA.

The VH-IVN is a Tiger Moth that was built in England in 1943, later commissioned into the Royal Navy as a training aircraft. This plane has operated as a crop duster in New Zealand, as well as in RAAF training implementing Tiger Moths during the Second World War.

In November 2010, the Museum purchased a second Tiger Moth VH-CYA. This aircraft was commissioned into the Royal Australian Air Force in 1942. It was used as a crop duster in Gilgandra, New South Wales for many years before eventually being retired from work and restored by private owners to its present condition.

The Tiger Moth Museum’s source of income is their joy flights. These flights fund the costs to keep both Tiger Moth aeroplanes running and maintained to a charter standard.

An engine from a Tiger Moth aeroplane must be removed from the aircraft every 1500 hours to be stripped, costing a staggering $50,000 each time.

The Tiger Moth Museum takes part in events such as ANZAC Day, Remembrance Day, Vietnam Veterans Day, the Bakers Creek Memorial, as well as weddings, funerals and more.

The volunteers who run the Tiger Moth Museum love to see the smile on the faces of people who return home from their first joy flight. It is rare for them to encounter someone who does not want a second go!

The Tiger Moth Museum are now looking for more volunteers and strongly encourage anyone who is interested in aviation to apply, as well as commercial pilots to operate the joy flights.

You can enjoy these coastal flights with times ranging from 20, 30 and 60 minutes operating on weekends. Bookings are available from Whitsunday Office Machines at 14 Ginger Street in Paget or by calling 07 499 856 77. Gift vouchers are also available.

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Volunteers of the Tiger Moth Museum alongside Tiger Moth VH-CYA. (left to right) Ross Robotham, Stewart Garnham and Peter Currey

Photo credit: Sinead Porter

The two Tigers, VH-CYA and VH-IVN

In the air looking over the beautiful Pioneer River

Photo credit: The Tiger Moth Museum

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For RFDS Awards

The Royal Flying Doctor Service (RDFS) are hosting their annual Local Hero Awards, recognising Queenslanders who go above and beyond to support their community.

The RFDS began in 1928, providing vital healthcare to regional, rural and remote areas. With nine bases operating throughout the state, they form a strategic network and help deliver the finest healthcare to all Queenslanders.

Without the ongoing support of the communities in which RFDS operate, they simply would not exist. In recognition of this fact, the RFDS Local Hero Awards are the organisation’s way of saying ‘thank you’.

The RFDS recognise nominations of people who make Queensland a healthier, better and more connected place. What unites these individuals is their passion for helping their local community.

A Local Hero could be anyone from a selfless community member who gives their time to help others, to those who have assisted in an emergency, volunteered, or fundraised.

Voting will determine one winner to receive a $20,000 grant provided by Ergon Energy Retail, to create or support a health or wellbeing initiative in their local community.

So, what are you waiting for? If you know someone deserving of this prestigious award, visit rfdslocalhero.com.au to nominate them as a Local Hero!

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Nominations for the Local Hero Awards close on 12th December

Photo credit: Royal Flying Doctor Service

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Families of the Pioneer Valley gathered to experience an extra special Remembrance Day this year, with a service at the cenotaph followed by an unveiling of Finch Hatton RSL’s World War II Honour Gallery.

With over two-hundred and fifty people in attendance from the local area and surrounds, the unveiling was a joint affair with RSL Life member David Oliver, RSL auxiliary Life Member Graeme Ware and auxiliary member Wendy Sievers all sharing in the honour.

The World War II Honour Gallery follows on from the sub branch’s World War One gallery which was opened in 2018. Both may be far from completion; however, the sentiment still stands as a remarkable achievement in admiration for our armed services.

With around seventy World War II veterans on the wall, it was time to open the gallery. There is an estimated forty or so others out there that are yet to be honoured and remembered.

The gathering was welcomed by President Tammy Sprott, who then handed over to the MC of the event Graeme Ware. As the instigator and driving force of the project, Wendy Sievers gave some background to the display.

Mayor Greg Williamson and Central Queensland District Deputy President John Edwards both acknowledged the importance of such projects, in maintaining the profile of our veterans who have served for their country and some making the ultimate sacrifice to allow all Australians the freedom we have been allowed today.

Finch Hatton RSL Sub Branch’s fundraising efforts over the years have been the primary source of support for such projects. The event was a momentous occasion for the Pioneer Valley in paying their respects as a community.

Taking place on Remembrance Day further signifies the importance of the unveiling, with this being a substantial victory for the Finch Hatton RSL Sub Branch which have gone to great lengths to organise the honour gallery project.

The branch is also grateful to the Department of Veterans Affairs and Central Queensland RSL District for supplying grants to provide much-needed capital to allow the project to take place.

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(Left to right) Ms Wendy Sievers, Mr Graeme Ware and Mr David Oliver unveil the WWII Honour Gallery

Onlookers from the community take in the newly-unveiled WWII Honour Gallery

Members of 122 Army Cadet Unit serve a gunfire breakfast to the community

The Mackay & District Pipe Band

Central Queensland RSL District Deputy President Mr John Edwards pays his respects

Photos supplied

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