John Carey joined SKAL Whitsundays, an international organisation promoting global tourism, in 2013 having relocated his business and family to Airlie Beach in 1986. Looking for new opportunities John understood very keenly the potential of the Whitsundays and Hinchinbrook (his hometown) areas to attract visitors.

Born in Townsville, he was the eldest of 10 children and their childhood was a very simple, happy and hardworking one, with the entire family working together almost every weekend, public and school holidays developing the small crop family property on their parent’s property at Dalrymple Creek, 30km’s west of Ingham.

John hailed from a long line of Accountants with this father, grandfather, two brothers, one sister, his sons and two nephews all following the accounting/business/finance career pathways. John first married in 1974 and had 4 children - 3 boys and 1 girl. He originally worked in the family accounting/farming business in Ingham, until he branched out and relocated to Airlie Beach to commence his own accounting and financial management business.

John was involved in sport for most of his life, both as a player and in sporting management. In his early days, he was committed to the local basketball executive for many years, at a time when the participation by local community was exceptionally strong. His love of all things sporting continued in Airlie Beach and extended to include sailing and rugby, amongst others.

After Johns first marriage dissolved in the late 1990’s, John married Bridget in 2013 and together with Bridget’s daughter and son-in-law, managed the Colonial Palms Motel for 8 years.

Sadly, John’s eldest son Andrew, drowned in 2014 and John will be laid to rest beside him at Ingham cemetery.

John will be sadly missed by many, not the least his beloved wife Bridget (and our member), who loved him dearly and was by his side right until his final passing on Australia Day, January 26, 2023.

RIP John Joseph Carey

13th July 1952 - 26th January 2023

Contributed with thanks to SKAL.

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With Councillor Michelle Wright

Hi all,

I was going to wish our amazing community a Happy New Year but wow, I blinked, and we are already in the middle of February!

As this is my first Councillor column, I'd like to thank Whitsunday Life for allowing space each week. It's a good opportunity to inform our Whitsunday community of relevant topics and good outcomes.

A quick update of the Ted Cunningham Bridge at Bowen River where late last year the approaches washed away.

As Divisional Councillor, I've got to meet and know the families in this community over the last few years and the current situation is very disappointing.

I would like to thank the residents who attended the Bowen River community meeting last week attended by myself, Mayor Hall and Council officers.

It was an opportunity for everyone to ask questions and Council to listen to the local resident’s feedback. A step in the right direction and we are pushing to rectify this situation and exploring options to reinstate the bridge as soon as possible.

On a positive note, some of the projects underway for 2023 include, Collinsville Main Street upgrade, the sealing of the Collinsville airstrip (currently gravel) and researching a suitable design for a new Pump /BMX track to be built at Darcy Munro Park Collinsville.

Bowen's projects include the upcoming Richmond Road Floodway project to create a higher resilience during the wet season, upgrading and renewing the Edgecombe Heights walking track at Horseshoe Bay, creating a masterplan for Muller’s Lagoon and a bus shelter for the Gumlu State School.

Plenty of other projects in the pipeline this year will also see an increase in community meetings which will be well advertised to give residents a chance to attend and have their say.

The first community meeting in Division 4 to specifically discuss rural roads will be held at the Collinsville Community Centre on February 24 at 10.30am.

Looking forward to the busy year ahead and working with you.

Cheers

Michelle

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Disappointingly, the first sniff of a cyclone sent the media into a complete frenzy with ridiculous headlines like “Horror cyclone head towards Queensland Coast” and the “ominously” named Cyclone Freddie is expected to wreak havoc on Queensland coast. It would be laughable if it wasn’t so damaging to our local businesses, with several reporting cancellations.

Alongside council representatives, the chamber recently met with Hero Experiences, an established Dubai based adventure tourism operator looking to expand and introduce some new product to Australia. Whilst looking at several locations in Australia, the benefits of the Whitsundays region were clearly laid out and articulated. Exciting prospects for the future.

In other meetings, the chamber is looking at ways to work more closely and in collaborations with Tourism Whitsundays and other local chambers and provide complementary benefits to local businesses moving forward.

Last night was Chamber’s first networking event of the year, held at the Reef Gateway Hotel.

Focussing on the Industrial Relations changes being enacted, Joanna Minchinton GM Workplace Relations for Chamber of Commerce and Industry Queensland was invited. Joanna is a recognised workplace relations expert and provides practical, real-world advice on employments matters.

Contributed with thanks to President of Whitsunday Coast Chamber of Commerce, Allan Milostic.

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Local farmers are set to benefit from $4.47 million in funding which supports the continuation of best management practices (BMP) that promote initiatives that will not only help the environment but also increase the bottom line for many in the industry.

Over the four years, CANEGROWERS across the country have been embracing Smartcane BMP with more than 40 per cent of growers adopting the scheme to become officially accredited and operating at best practice.

CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens said that there are likely more farmers adopting these practices than are signed up for the scheme.

“While 40 per cent might be the official number, when you take into account the number of growers who are implementing best practices on their farms but have not sought accreditation, the actual figure would be much higher,” he said.

“The Smartcane BMP program is 100 per cent voluntary and I encourage growers to seek accreditation.

“While we in the industry know we are operating at the highest of environmental standards, accreditation provides a validation that opens the doors to policy and market-based recognition.”

So far, more than 500 growers have used Smartcane BMP to document changes to their farming practices. 

These changes have addressed disease management, weed control, nutrient management, soil health, tillage, fallow cropping, and/or irrigation scheduling.

The funding is part of a broader $20.75 million government funding allocated for the next three years to help farmers reduce harmful run-off, improve productivity and protect the Great Barrier Reef.

The multi-million-dollar injection into the agricultural industry will enable the continuation of the Grazing Resilience and Sustainable Solutions (GRASS) program and the Smartcane BMP.

Minister for the Environment and the Great Barrier Reef, Meaghan Scanlon, made the announcement earlier this week and said that farmers continue to play a critical role in helping to protect our Great Barrier Reef.

“Both programs are aimed at helping our agriculture industry improve land condition, enhance production and, ultimately, reduce pollutants in reef catchments,” she said.

“This funding forms part of our five-year $270.1 million Queensland Reef Water Quality Program to address water pollution, taking our total spend on water quality since 2015 to over $1 billion.”

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Over 500 cane farmers now operate under best management practices

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A new group of school leaders were inducted at Proserpine State High School earlier this month in a special ceremony that also honoured the achievements of last years’ stand-out students.

Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Will cox was in attendance and he said that it was great to see the multipurpose hall full house while the school community watched with pride as the new school leaders took their place on stage.

“I was honoured to be asked to present the badges to the Senior Student Council Executives for 2023,” he said.

“Congratulations to all of the new leaders - Proserpine State High is set for another great year with these fine young ladies and gents at the helm.”

This Years’ Leaders

SCHOOL CAPTAINS: Georgia Butler, Sam Rogers

SCHOOL VICE-CAPTAINS: Abbie O’Sheehy, Riley Stuchbree

INDIGENOUS STUDENT LEADER: Isabella Allan

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SENIOR STUDENT COUNCIL EXECUTIVE

PRESIDENT Alannah Fitzpatrick

VICE-PRESIDENT Scarlett Foti

SECRETARY Acadia Simmonds

TREASURER Isabella Allan

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JUNIOR STUDENT COUNCIL EXECUTIVE

PRESIDENT Matthew Mendoza

VICE-PRESIDENT Sam Fogg

SECRETARY Ellie Parker

TREASURER Lucas O’Toole

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HOUSE CAPTAINS / VICE-CAPTAINS

COOK

Kaylem Douthwaite (C)

Sahara Hill (C)

Millie Wesley (VC)

Ethan Ventura (VC)

FLINDERS

Pauline Mallare (C)

Acadia Simmonds (C)

Georgia Butler (VC)

Madison Curr (VC)

KENNEDY

Rachael Buckley (C)

Crispin Diessel (C)

Isabella Allan (VC)

Makaela Stefani (VC)

OXLEY

Jahla Thompson (C)

Alannah Fitzpatrick (C)

Scarlett Foti (VC)

Taela Braney (VC)

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DUX OF SCHOOL 2022: Mac Rogers

BURSARY WINNERS:

DOUGLAS DEBNEY MEMORIAL BURSARY Mac Rogers

GEORGE TELFORD MEMORIAL BURSARY Xanthia Thompson

BAND LEADERS: Acadia Simmonds, Ethan Smith

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The 2023 School Captains

DUX of 2022 Mac Rogers. Photos supplied

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Australian history was made this week following the decision to block Clive Palmer’s Central Queensland coal mine development.

This is the first time a project of this nature has been halted by the government.

Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek made the initial decision last year and a lengthy public consultation ensued.

A total of 9000 submissions were received, 98 per cent of which were in favour of blocking the project.

The planned mining site was 10 kilometres from the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area and thorough research indicated that the mine generated risks to the reef that were too great.

Cherry Muddle, a Senior Great Barrier Reef Campaigner said that she was thrilled to see the project overturned, but that the decision was simply abiding by the law.

“The Minister listened to the scientists and followed the law,” she said.

“We hope that this decision means the Australian Government are serious about the Great Barrier Reef.

“There is insurmountable evidence that the impacts of mining on the reef in that location would be irreversible and unacceptable.”

Groundwater contaminants from holding ponds within the mine would have leached into the catchment area and travelled down to the ocean through creeks and rivers.

These mine pollutants and various fine sediments from the development of the mine would travel across the reef and dramatically decrease water quality.

“There is a huge tide and current that could cause widespread impacts to the reef,” said Cherry.

“Especially to the Dugong and Sea Turtle nesting areas.”

While environmentalists are celebrating, however, local Federal Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry, is concerned about how the decision will impact the regional economy.

“We need to have a good think about what props up our nation. Without the resources industry there are no funds to build the big-ticket items,” she said.

Senator for Queensland, Matthew Canavan, agrees, stating the decision is not what we need while living costs continue to skyrocket.

“People need jobs so they can pay their mortgages and removing red tape would help reduce inflation by creating a more productive economy,” he said.

Finding a balance between protecting our natural environments and utilising them to create jobs and economic benefits for our community is a challenge.

The ambition to achieve net zero emissions by 2050, however, is a goal that is changing the shape of our resource industry.

“In Australia, we have abundant natural resources, such as wind and solar,” said Cherry.

“I don’t know why we aren’t grasping them with both hands and seizing the opportunity.

“There are 60,000 people directly employed in tourism in the Great Barrier Reef and we need to consider their welfare too.

“It’s not about stopping an individual coal mine; it is about looking at all the overlapping impacts.”

Currently, there are 17 other coal and gas applications under consideration, 11 of which are in Central and North Queensland.

Only time will tell whether this history-making decision will pave the way for others to follow.

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Senior Great Barrier Reef Campaigner, Cherry Muddle

Federal Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry, says that our local economies need coal mines. Photos supplied

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Keeping up with the odd jobs around the home is crucial to maintaining a safe, comfortable, and well-functioning living environment.

By taking the time to regularly perform small tasks, homeowners can avoid major issues down the line that could be more expensive and time-consuming to fix.

One area where homeowners often neglect routine maintenance is with their air conditioning units.

These appliances work hard to keep us cool and comfortable during hot summer months, but they require proper care and maintenance to function at their best.

By changing the filters regularly, cleaning the unit's coils, and having it serviced by a professional, homeowners can extend the life of their air conditioning unit and avoid costly repairs.

Another area where regular maintenance is crucial is with the exterior of your home.

Over time, dirt, dust, and other debris can accumulate on walls, windows, and roofs, which can cause damage to the paint or other surfaces.

High-pressure cleaning can be an effective way to remove built-up grime and keep your home looking clean and fresh. This can help prevent issues like mold and mildew growth, which can be harmful to your health.

Checking the roofing and gutters is also an important aspect of home maintenance that is often overlooked.

Regular inspection and cleaning of your roofing and gutters can help prevent leaks and water damage to your home.

Leaks in the roof or gutters can lead to rotting wood, mold, and other issues that can be costly to fix.

By ensuring your roof and gutters are in good condition, you can prevent these issues from occurring and maintain the value of your home.

Odd Job To Do List:

• Clean or replace air conditioning filters every three months

• Have your air conditioning unit serviced by a professional at least once a year

• High-pressure clean the exterior of your home every 12-18 months

• Check your roofing for damage and leaks twice a year

• Clean your gutters every three to six months

By following these simple maintenance tips, homeowners can avoid major issues down the line and maintain a comfortable and safe living environment.

For all your air-conditioning needs call A2Z Airconditioning, if you want to pressure clean the exterior of your home give Blast H20 a call and for all your roofing and guttering needs call Parnell’s in Proserpine.

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Less than two weeks till Autumn!

As the weather starts its journey into the cooler months, it is a very exciting time for the vegie patches in the Whitsundays. April is “the month” to plant a huge variety of vegetable seeds, so now is the time for preparation and there is lots to do.

If you don’t have a compost bin, start one now.

A compost bin is the best thing you can do for your garden.  Adding a layer of compost to your garden beds will support worms, bacteria, fungi and micro-organisms to get to work.

If you haven’t had a compost before there are a few important things to remember.

No one wants a stinky compost bin and with the right balance, your compost should smell earthy and pleasant. It’s about balance and moisture. Keep your compost bin contents moist throughout but not saturated.  

Here’s how my compost bin looks:

• 50% dry materials - Cut up garden prunings, cardboard and paper (I wet mine before adding them into the pile), egg cartoons, dead leaves, straw

• 30% green plant matter – Soft garden prunings, thin layers of grass clippings

• 20% kitchen scraps – Avoiding meat, whole eggs and dairy as they smell and attract rodents

• Then I add blood and bone or poultry manure. This adds nitrogen and phosphorus and makes for a healthy environment for micro-organisms to do their work.

If you have not established garden beds yet, then find the sunniest part of your garden, as close as possible to the house and make a raised bed (great for drainage when we do get those heavy downpours) and remember that your soil depth needs to be 30-40cm for your vegies. Don’t make the bed any wider than 1.2 metres, you’ll need to comfortably reach in for mulching, weeding, pruning and picking!

If your beds are already established, then it’s time to clean them up. Remove weeds, add compost (if you don’t have any yet, you can buy soil improvers in bags, come see us at Whitpro we have plenty of options), a slow-release fertiliser like poultry manure and cover with mulch, my go to is sugar cane mulch. Your soil health means everything to the success in your vegetable garden, so give it some love now.

Soil temperature is a really important factor when it comes to seed germination, so don’t be tempted to plant them out too early. If your patch is ready to go and you just can’t wait till April then plant some basil and corn now, in March you can start adding capsicums, chillis, coriander and eggplant but be sure to leave plenty of room for April planting, you’re going to need it!

In the Whitsunday summer heat, salads are still our go to.

With a great dressing, you can lift any salad from dull to fabulous.

Try this one:

Salad:

Layer these ingredients on the plate and don’t stir

• Spinach leaves (as a base)

• Alfalfa – Sprinkle with as little or as much as you like

• Red Grapes cut in half

• Tomatoes – cut into quarters, remove seeds, dice into 1 cm pieces

• Cucumber – seeds removed and diced into 1cm pieces

• Beetroot – drain off excess liquid and cut into cubes

• Sprinkle with nuts or seeds of your choice

• Goats cheese – crumbled and spread on top (or your favourite cheese)

Drizzle the dressing over the salad. If you want to make it a meal on its own, then top with thinly sliced chicken schnitzel or salmon or lamb (whatever you enjoy or have left over from the night before).

Chive dressing:

This dressing can be stored in the fridge for a few days

• ¼ cup Olive Oil

• ¼ cup white wine vinegar

• 2 teaspoon crushed garlic

• ¼ cup caster sugar

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• 1/3 cup Mayonnaise

• 1 teaspoon Dried salad herbs – Eg  Parsley / Chives / Basil / Onion Powder

• Salt and Lots of Pepper

1. Put all ingredients in a jar and shake like crazy (or in the blender)

1: Healthy soil creates a vibrant and flourishing veggie patch

2: Delicious home-grown herbs make the best salad dressing

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During storm season in the Whitsundays, it is important to clear up your garden to avoid potential hazards and remove items that could become airborne in strong winds.

At this time of year, the increased rainfall can cause gardens to become overgrown, providing the perfect habitat for snakes and other dangerous animals.

By clearing up your garden, you can remove potential hiding spots for snakes and reduce the risk of an unexpected encounter.

Another benefit of clearing up your garden is that it can help to improve the overall appearance of your property.

An overgrown and cluttered garden can detract from the beauty of your home and reduce its value.

By keeping your garden tidy and well-maintained, you can create an inviting and welcoming environment that will enhance your property's curb appeal.

To clear up your garden, start by removing any dead or dying plants, as well as any fallen branches or other debris.

Trim back any overgrown bushes or trees and remove any weeds or other unwanted plants.

Consider hiring a professional tree service, such as Whitpro, to remove any large or difficult-to-reach branches.

Unsure what to do with your garden waste? Call Garden Bags Whitsunday who will be happy to provide a sack to store debris and then remove it for you.

By taking the time to clear up your garden, you can help to keep yourself, your family, and your property safe during the wet season.

Don't wait until it's too late - start clearing up your garden today.

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A new chapter of aviation love took flight on Valentine’s Day, as the new Aussie airline, Bonza, made its debut direct flight from the Sunshine Coast to Mackay.

A local couple from the Sunshine Coast, who share the same endearing nicknames as Bonza's aircrafts (Shazza and Bazza), marked this special occasion by renewing their wedding vows at the airport on the tarmac before boarding the flight. The couple, who were celebrating 41 years of marriage, were honored guests of Bonza, where a festive pool party and BBQ awaited them and other passengers at the Ibis Hotel in Mackay.

As passengers arrived at the Mackay terminal, players from the Mackay Cutters greeted them on arrival dressed in bright purple Bonza budgie smugglers before a celebratory cake was cut to mark the momentous occasion.

"Bonza is soaring to great heights. On the 27th of January, we went on sale for the first time and sold over 10,000 seats in just three days," said Tim Jordan, CEO of Bonza.

"Since then, customers have been embracing our app-first approach, and on the 31st of January, we took to the skies for the first time.

On Valentine’s Day, we shared our love with our friends in Mackay."

Bonza Brings Lovers Closer With Historic Flight On Valentine's Day

Bonza launched its first direct flight from the Sunshine Coast to Mackay earlier this week, offering customers a chance to reunite with loved ones on Valentine’s Day. The airline’s goal is to connect communities and provide affordable flights to explore more of Australia with its regional network.

Flights from the Sunshine Coast to Mackay can be booked through the Fly Bonza app, with prices starting from $59 per person, one way. The Mackay to Cairns route, starting on the 29th of March, is also available for $49 per person, one way. The Melbourne base of Bonza is expected to go on sale soon, which will include a twice-weekly service between Melbourne and Mackay.

Tim Jordan, CEO of Bonza said, “We want to make it affordable to explore more of Australia, and Mackay is a prime example of a stunning, yet undiscovered destination.

Mr Jordan added that the possibility of other destinations in the future comes down to how well the community supports the routes available now, and for the public to reach out on social media to Bonza to let them know which new destinations they would like to see added.

Mayor Greg Williamson welcomed Bonza to Mackay and thanked the airline for choosing the region as its second destination to be serviced from the Sunshine Coast.

“Here’s a company that recognises what the north of the state can do, that recognises the ability of our region to pump this airline up and make sure the connections they are offering us are well supported, which I know our community will do.”

Andrew Brodie, CEO of the Sunshine Coast Airport, and Richard Barker, CEO of North Queensland Airports, were also on board to celebrate this historic flight. Mr. Brodie emphasized the significance of this milestone for the region, as they eagerly anticipate welcoming travellers from Mackay.

"Sunshine Coast and Mackay are both renowned for their beauty and rich history," said Mr. Brodie.

“With the introduction of this new route, travellers can now spend some time on the Sunshine Coast before heading north, saving time and money and giving them greater freedom and choice in planning their holiday."

“Once the schedule is ramped up, we expect this new Bonza service to add thousands of additional seats to the Mackay market each week," he said.

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Passengers and players from the Mackay Cutters enjoyed a cheeky pool party at the Ibis Hotel in celebration of the inaugural Bonza flight from the Sunshine Coast to Mackay on Valentine’s Day

A celebratory kangaroo cake was cut at the Mackay Airport to celebrate Bonza’s inaugural flight to Mackay. L-R: Richard Barker, CEO Mackay Airport, Al Grundy, Mackay Isaac Tourism CEO, Tim Jordan, CEO Bonza, Greg Williamson, Mackay Mayor, Andrew Brodie, CEO Sunshine Coast Airport with a young passenger from the flight. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

The first passengers on Bonza’s inaugural Sunshine Coast to Mackay flight were treated to a pool party at the Ibis Hotel

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Australia was left in shock when two young police officers, Constable Rachel McCrow and Constable Matthew Arnold, lost their lives in the line of duty on a property at Wieambilla, west of Brisbane, on December 12.

Memorials were held across the country, including here in Mackay a week later at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre.

The service was conducted with the assistance of many throughout the community and Mackay Police recently thanked those who assisted.

“We are very lucky here in the Mackay Whitsunday District to have an astounding amount of support around us from our community,” a statement from myPolice Mackay reads.

“We wanted to give back to those who played a special part in the Memorial of Constable McCrow and Constable Arnold, that was held at the MECC in Mackay.

“Whether it was by donating or assisting with the organisational aspect, we are very grateful for their kindness and support.”

A morning tea was recently held where members of the public received Certificates of Appreciation to thank them for their support.

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Certificates of Appreciation were presented to civilians who volunteered and donated for the Memorial of Constable Arnold and Constable McCrow by the Superintendent. Photos supplied

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The surf and sand of the Sunshine Coast was brought closer to Mackay earlier this week, with Bonza’s inaugural flight taking off between the lands of pineapple and sugar.

It’s part of Bonza’s promise to open up more regional pathways via air services, with a Mackay to Cairns route opening for ticket sales in March.

It’s a promising indication for our region’s economy to see a new airline place its faith in Mackay and the Whitsundays from the get-go. Bonza’s first flight was last month from the Sunshine Coast to Proserpine, and Mackay was the second cab off the rank.

The airline's launch has been met with much enthusiasm from both the travel industry and locals, with many people eager to take advantage of the new carrier's competitive prices and unique flight schedules.

At this stage, the destinations which will become available direct from Mackay will be the Sunshine Coast, Cairns and Melbourne. An announcement on Melbourne pricing is set to come in the next fortnight.

Tim Jordan, founder and CEO of Bonza, spoke at the Mackay press conference and said he was keen to hear what other routes Mackay locals wanted to see added in the future, and encouraged people to reach out on Bonza’s social media to let them know. Of course, we will have to make sure the initial three destinations are well supported first.

So, where are you planning your next Bonza vacation?

Amanda

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Andrew Willcox, Member for Dawson is calling on the Federal Government to immediately reverse its decision to impose a de facto regional processing penalty on skilled workers in priority sectors hoping to take up one of thousands of jobs that need to be filled in regional communities.

Mr Willcox said, “As rural and regional communities in Dawson are crying out for skilled healthcare workers, nurses, disability support workers, teachers and doctors are being unfairly prevented from priority visa processing because of Government imposed red tape.”

Mr Willcox added that thousands of critical workers are being unfairly denied prioritisation of visa because they want to live in regional and rural Australia.

“By failing to recognise Skilled - Regional visa (subclass 887) visa in its prioritisation the Government is effectively encouraging skilled workers to move to the city.”

The Home Affairs website indicated 90 per cent of Skilled - Regional visa (subclass 887) visas are being processed in 27 Months and information released under FOI indicates there could be as many as 19,000 Skilled - Regional visas awaiting processing by the Department.

The Deputy Leader of the Opposition and Member for the regional New South Wales seat of Farrer, Sussan Ley said the Federal Government is failing regional, rural and remote communities through this shoddy decision made by a rookie minister.

“Minister Giles’ inbox is overflowing with mail on this issue and we’ve heard nothing but crickets from him, it is simply not good enough and needs to be fixed immediately,” the Deputy Leader of the Opposition said.

“As a result of this complete stuff up by Minister Giles, workers that are desperately needed in regional communities are missing out on priority processing.”

Andrew Willcox, Member for Dawson called on the Federal Government to immediately prioritise processing of regional workers in Dawson.

“Our community deserves better than being relegated to the slow lane of visa processing just because we live in rural and regional Australia, it is just not good enough and I am calling it out,” he said.

The Shadow Minister for Health and regional South Australian Senator, Anne Ruston said communities in rural, regional and remote Australia are currently crying out for critical healthcare professionals, yet the Government continues to sit on their hands when it comes to this workforce crisis.

“This extremely disappointing action comes on top of their decision to rip overseas-trained doctors out of country towns through changes to the Distribution Priority Areas and to cut 70 telehealth-related Medicare items that were providing immediate primary care access to mostly rural Australians.”

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Andrew Willcox, Federal Member for Dawson (left) is championing the cause for skilled workers in rural and regional communities

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Passengers were left in shock after the Spirit of Queensland train, travelling from Brisbane to Cairns, was involved in a collision with a road vehicle north of Mackay earlier this week.

The incident occurred at 8:40am on the morning of Tuesday, February 14 at the Pratts Road level crossing at Calen, just off the Bruce Highway.

Emergency services arrived on site shortly after as did Queensland Rail’s emergency response teams, maintenance and electrical staff.

The driver and sole occupant of the vehicle suffered head injuries and was taken to Mackay Base Hospital in a stable condition while 161 passengers were aboard the train, with some being treated for shock and minor cuts from broken glass.

One passenger reported that 18 windows were smashed across most carriages of the train.

“The impact sounded like (a) gun shot,” said the passenger.

The service was consequently cancelled and customers were transferred to their destination by bus.

Queensland Rail Acting Head of Regional Scott Cornish said Queensland Rail is committed to ensuring safety at railway crossings.

“The Pratts Road level crossing is fitted with active protection in the form of flashing lights, which were working at the time of the incident,” he said.

“The crossing also has warning signs on all approaches.

“This is an important reminder for road users to pay attention to the signs and signals in place for everyone's safety.”

Repairs to the level crossing were completed Tuesday afternoon and the line has reopened.

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A local volunteer has recently been recognised at the state level for his commitment to the PCYC Braking the Cycle (BTC) program as the program celebrated its 10th anniversary last year.

Alan Williamson was flown to Brisbane last December and recognised for eight years of service to the program at a presentation at Parliament House.

“Alan is our longest running mentor in Mackay,” said BTC Program Coordinator Tanya Brown.

“He has done it since the program started in Mackay, so eight years, he’s been doing it weekly for eight years now.”

BTC is a volunteer driver mentor program supporting learner drivers without access to a supervisor or registered vehicle to complete their logbook hours by pairing them with a volunteer driving mentor.

Alan got involved after a long career of driving buses, trucks and taxis in New Zealand and Australia, hearing a radio ad that seemed perfectly timed.

“I was doing runs around Nebo area and listening to the ABC every morning,” he said.

“When my wife was alive, she encouraged me to try to teach kids how to drive, even adults how to drive, and this came up.

“It was exactly what I wanted to do.

“Over the years, since I started driving buses, I’ve had a lot of people, and I mean heaps of people, compliment me on my driving skills.

“Those are the skills I’ve got, and I’d like to pass them on,”

Alan thanks a defensive driving course for his driving skills – something he says all young drivers should have access to.

“Defensive driving in New Zealand is totally different to what it is here,” he said.

“It helps younger people, it doesn’t cost you anything, volunteers teach you and I think it should be something we really need to look at.”

With 25-30 participants active in the program at one time and plenty more on the waitlist, Ms Brown said there’s high demand for volunteers.

“You need to have a really patient demeanour,” she said.

“They end up being that listening ear for the kids.

“The kids do tend to trust and unload.”

Vehicles are provided by PCYC for sessions, as is insurance, and volunteers need to have held an open driver’s license for 12 months and hold a blue card or be willing to obtain.

For more information, contact Tanya Brown on 0437 597 736 or email tanya.brown@pcyc.org.au.

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Braking the Cycle Volunteer Alan Williamson and Program Coordinator Tanya Brown

Mr Williamson (far right) was recognised for eight years of service at BTC’s 10-year anniversary celebrations in Brisbane

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