While thousands flocked to the Proserpine Showgrounds for the 110th Show Whitsunday last weekend, the prize poultry also flew into their new home with the grand opening of the new Poultry Pavilion held at 10am on Friday morning.

A $100,000 grant from the Queensland Government Community Gambling Benefit Fund enabled the Proserpine Agriculture Show Association to construct a new multi-purpose pavilion which now boasts concrete floors, insulation and waterproofing.

“The poultry exhibit will have much improved accommodations,” said President of the Proserpine Show Association, Donna Rogers.

“It replaces one previously with dirt floors requiring sawdust laid every year and rusted corrugated walls that often fell prey to those keen to steal a champion fowl or two!

“The new building will be available for hire by the general public and community groups and is ideally located adjacent to the dog ring making the possibilities for event usage immeasurable.”

Member for Whitsunday, Amanda Camm MP, attended the opening and said that the Proserpine Show Association was one of ten not-for-profit organisations in the Whitsunday electorate to receive funding under GCBF ‘Super’ Round 113.

“The Proserpine Show Association has taken the disappointment they felt from the damage sustained from Cyclone Debbie and turned it into a positive situation that will have long term economic advantages,” Ms Camm said.

“I’m pleased to see the association’s goals and long-term vision can rise from adversity through the support of the GCBF grant.”

Ms Camm said the GCBF ‘super’ round provided grants of up to $100,000 to Queensland not-for-profit community groups to enhance their capacity to provide services, leisure activities and economic opportunities for their local communities.

She said the next round of GCBF would be a ‘standard’ round, offering grants of up to $35,000 to each not-for-profit group and would open late July/early August.

“If any organisation thinks that they may benefit from a GCBF grant, or would like further information, they should contact my office on 4845 3100”, Ms Camm stated.

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Amanda Camm MP, Member for Whitsunday, along with Proserpine Show Committee members from left to right: Sue Quantock, Donna Rogers, Wayne Quantock, and Helen Wright. Photo supplied

The new Poultry Pavilion in action during Show Whitsunday. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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The whole school community enjoyed learning more about NAIDOC Day last week thanks to a full day program which saw children participate in activities hosted by two visiting indigenous educators and performers.

NAIDOC (National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee) Week takes place from 2-9 July, but Cannonvale State School opted to mark the occasion on the last day of their school term instead.

The day celebrates the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and is commemorated not only in Indigenous communities, but by Australians all over the country and overseas.

School teacher, Jo Morgan who has spent 20 years working with indigenous people in the Northern Territory , organised Cannonvale State School’s NAIDOC day which was fun, exciting and educational for all involved.

Respected songman and artist from the Thuppi Warra clan and a Traditional Owner from Ngaro and Gia People of the Whitsundays, Harold Bowen was one of two educators on the day.

Harold has achieved many things in his time, a long-standing director on the board of Indigenous Art Centre Alliance (IACA) his painting Yirrumbul painting won the established artist art award at the Laura Dance Festival 2021.

The second person was Adrian Thomas, a South Sea Island, Polynesian, Chinese and Irish man who has spent the last 10 years working with Indigenous Young People, five of those being in Community.

Adrian has recorded music with some of the best Indigenous artists in Australia, he has supported Missy Higgins and Dan Sultan, has music that is played throughout Australia Radio and has also toured Internationally.

On the day, the entire student body was split into groups of 150 children across all year levels to resemble an indigenous family configuration.

The groups then rotated across different activities which included stories, song, dance and music, for a truly immersive experience.

They made dancing belts, which is a traditional belt worn in a ceremony in Arnhem Land.

They also participated in a yarning circle, where they used something similar to a talking stick, to take it in turns to speak on a topical subject – making sure that everyone was heard and respected.

“Kids can often be poor at listening and disrespectful to each other,” said Ms Morgan.

“So, the yarning circle is the perfect tool for helping them and the kids love the fact that this is something that the Indigenous people have brought into our realm now.”

Yarning circle topics included: “let’s yarn about the older people in your life, who are they and why are they important to you”.

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Harold Bowen, Adrian Thomas, Leo Jiggins Cannonvale State School’s Indigenous Leader and Principal Angie Kelly.

School teacher, Jo Morgan, organised NAIDOC Day at Cannonvale State

School students introduced the Indigenous representatives

Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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High Speed Incident, Lethebrook

A 23-year-old male resident of North Ward (Townsville) was stopped by police for an alleged high-speed incident at about 8:00am on June 24 on the Bruce Highway at Lethebrook (Proserpine).

It's alleged that officers stopped a Toyota Corolla hatchback after its speed was checked as being 144 kilometres an hour in a 100 kilometre an hour speed zone.

It's further alleged that the driver indicated fatigue as a reason for the relevant speed.

An on the spot fine of $1,653 was issued resulting in the loss of 8 demerit points and a driver’s licence suspension for a period of 6 months.

Stealing, Bowen

Between 3:00pm on June 26 and 10:00am on June 27, someone has stolen forks for a bobcat from a construction site on the Bruce Highway near Don Street in Bowen.

A tipper has been used to transport the stolen item from the site.

Anyone who might have information about the matter is encouraged to contact police as soon as possible.

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As the whales migrate north, so do the cruising yachties and as the horizon fills with proud white masts, the boating season ramps up with the Coral Sea Academy’s free Better Boating Training events.

Open to everyone, from the experienced to the new boat owners, these interactive and educational sessions are an ideal way to learn more about your craft and network with other likeminded people.

This year, the Coral Sea Academy welcomes back partners, Mainstay Sailing and Volunteer Marine Rescue Whitsundays, who will, over the coming months from July through to September, provide the perfect opportunity to encourage better boating practices and increase confidence on the water through a series of informal, fun, and engaging sessions.

From boating basics such as radio or tender operation, through to an introduction on navigation, these sessions allow people to increase their boating knowledge, learn additional skills, gain confidence and network with like-minded crew.

The Better Boating series will take place throughout the winter cruising season and kicks off with the return of a crowd favourite “Ropes and Rum” on Tuesday July 4, from 5.30pm at Coral Sea Marina’s The Lookout Lounge, hosted by Mainstay Sailing.

Learn the ropes (literally) and enjoy a practical evening of ropework, knots and splicing.

Next on the calendar the following fortnight (Tuesday July 18) will be Safety at Sea, hosted by the Volunteer Marine Rescue Whitsundays.

This event will include great tips and advice, plus an exciting practical demonstration with a working life raft, thanks to Whitsunday Ocean Services.

New to the calendar this year, and to finish up the series in September, will be a brand-new topic on Basic Boat Maintenance.

As the typical cruising season comes to an end, this free information event on Tuesday September 19, will give you the best insights, maintenance schedules and contacts of local suppliers and services to ensure that your pride and joy remains spick-and-span ready for the next on-water adventure.

WHAT: Ropes and Rum

WHEN: Tuesday, July 4 from 5.30pm

WHAT: Safety at Sea

WHEN: Tuesday, July 18

WHAT: Basic Boat Maintenance

WHEN: Tuesday, September 19

WHERE: All events are held at Coral Sea Marina’s Lookout Lounge

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Testing riders’ endurance and skills, the Don River Dash is back on for September 2023.

For two days, Bowen’s Don River is transformed into a unique and completely off-road track, through 50km of mud, sand, rocks, and jumps.

Katie Robinson first took on the track in 2021, her first ever motorcycle race.

Katie, from Eton, just south of Mackay, is an amateur motorbike rider and decided to take on the Don River Dash in 2021 on a whim, coming out third in the women’s bikes.

The Don River Dash’s course is ever changing, due to rainfall and water flow, which attracts a myriad of racers, from amateur to professionals with an array of sponsorship, including Dean Ferris, Lian Walsh and Toby Price.

Adding to the difficulty, 80 buggies race through the riverbed in the morning of the second day, reducing the track away and making it unrecognisable to riders.

Katie believes that mindset plays the biggest part in rider’s performance in the race.

“I think the main challenge we face is mindset,” she explained.

“The right mindset has a huge impact. How do we think? How do we believe in ourselves? How can you concentrate? Think of other influences, or can you focus your concentration on only yourself and your riding. Everyone is racing under the same conditions in the allocated time frame. You can’t win the race on the first lap, but you can lose it. Self-doubt keeps you in your comfort zone,” Katie said.

Katie is aided by her partner Justin, often working alongside each other on their bikes.

“In one section of the track, I drowned my bike in a water crossing, wetting my spark plug.

“I remember looking down at my bike, re-gathering focus and energy, I noticed that Justin had written on my bar pad the word ‘breathe’.

“Seeing that note quickly reminded me to maintain focus and confidence.”

Women competing in motorsport and in the Don River Dash is growing, and Katie is excited.

“It’s not all about speed, so it doesn’t matter if you’re not the fastest. The results won’t happen overnight.

“And at the end of the race, shiny cup or not, we’ll have a beer, and we will celebrate the good, the bad, the ugly, and the safe return to the pits.”

Some tips from Katie for other women wanting to get on the bike:

- Mindset is everything

- Manage your stress, it will affect your ability to concentrate otherwise

- Remember to breathe

- Visualise your performance before the race – ride the track in your mind and go over your technique

- Winning isn’t just the podium finishes, it's improving lap times, gaining confidence, and walking away knowing you raced as hard as you could.

- No hour spent on the bike is wasted, gear up!

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Katie Robinson often works side-by-side with partner Justin, working of bikes and preparing for the race

2021 was Katie’s first Don River Dash, coming third for women’s racers. Photos supplied

Wonderful to catch up with Minister for Transport and Main Roads Mark Bailey in Bowen last week where he announced that $50 million has been allocated in the State Budget to future proof the Bowen Jetty.

A huge thank you to the Queensland Government and Minister Bailey for recognising the importance of the jetty to heritage, recreation, and tourism in Bowen.

Council looks forward to working with North Queensland Bulk Ports, who currently control and maintain the jetty, to explore a viable and sustainable solution going forward.

This funding now gives all stakeholders the opportunity to further investigate options for the jetty which will include extensive stakeholder and community consultation on planning and design and input into a business case that will deliver the best outcome for the community

I recently spent the week in Canberra attending the Australian Local Government Associations, National General Assembly.

Hosted by the ALGA, the annual event brings together the nation’s 537 local governments to share ideas to best support regional communities.

I just want to thank and acknowledge the following federal leaders who took the time to let me introduce myself and have a chat and listen to issues facing our region.

Minister for Resources and Northern Australia Madeleine King, Minister for Housing, the Minister for Homelessness and the Minister for Small Business Julie Collins MP, Minister for Regional Development and Local Government and Territories Kristy McBain MP, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Govern Catherine King, Honorary Milton Dick Speaker of the House of Representatives, our Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox, Shadow Local Government Minister Darren Chester and Trade and Tourism Ministers Deputy Chief of Staff Sarah Huy.

Local Government is on the front line of the people in our community. We are the ones who are in the trenches with our residents fighting for what our communities really need.

That is why it is so important that our big brothers in both our Federal and State Politicians take the time to listen to our Local Government representatives and their issues and needs.

Whitsunday Regional Council submitted two original strategic motions to the National Assembly, and both were carried.

Our first motion weas that this National General Assembly calls on the Australian Government to establish minimum road quality standards for the National Highway 1 to improve safety and to ensure accessibility is maintained throughout the nation especially during major weather events.

This motion was one I have been personally driving since January this year. It speaks to the road surface quality and flood immunity for our National Highway.

The second successful original motion was that this National General Assembly calls on the Australian Government to develop with State Governments a damage mitigation permit process so that flying fox species which have a Queensland Nature Conservation Act Status of "least concern" can be relocated from urban areas where they are creating a significant nuisance.

This motion was debated, and in my opening address I spoke to reassure other Australian Councils that WRC recognised the important role our flying foxes play in our delicate eco system and that this motion was not seeking to kill any bats.

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If you require building approval for a new building or structure, or for an extension to an existing building or structure, you will need to submit a Development Application through a suitably qualified building certifier (Private Certifier) prior to commencing construction to ensure that the building or structure meets legislative requirements. Once engaged, the Private Certifier will then contact Council to inform us of the works.

The Private Certifier will ensure that all proposed structures or buildings comply with building codes and standards, as well as any health and safety requirements and the Council Planning Scheme. They will also check to make sure any buildings or structures under construction comply with the approved building plans.

Please remember, it is the landowner’s responsibility to call the certifier to undertake a final inspection and notify Council when all works are complete and in compliance.  Without this final certificate landowners could face issues surrounding insurance for the building or structure.

For more information or to find a Private certifier near you, head to the QBCC Website at www.qbcc.qld.gov.au/your-property/build-renovate/choosing-contractor

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Farming is nothing new for born and bred Proserpine local Russell Biggs.

Fourth generation on the family farm, Russell has been a solid driving force in the sugar industry and local farming.

His great-grandfather, William, initially begun the family farm, once relocating from Richmond River in northern New South Wales.

Since 1968, Russell has been operating the family farm ‘Ernestholme’, following the tragic loss of his father in an accident.

He has since expanded the farm, now holding 360 hectares across Proserpine for sugar cane, and having about 20 head of cattle.

During his career, Russell has been influential to the industry, including being Director of the Proserpine Co-Operative Sugar Milling Association from 1994 to 2011, with a time as Deputy Chairman in 2010.

Three generations of Biggs’ has been on the Board of Directors of the Proserpine Sugar Mill, with grandfather William, father Harry, and then Russell himself.

Russell is also heavily involved within the local community, serving on the finance committee for the Proserpine Ex-Servicemen’s Club, president of the Proserpine Junior Cricket Club, from 1990 to 1995, where he helped fund the $45,000 irrigation of the grounds.

This must be a family trait, as his great-grandfather, William being elected into the first Proserpine Shire Council in 1910 and serving as the Shire Chairman from 1927 to 1930, and Russell’s great-grandmother, Annie, switched the electricity on for the town in 1929.

In 2016, Russell was named Proserpine Sugar Producer of the Year, and has been a partner of Crystalbrook Harvesting Company since 1996.

Each year, Russell and the family farm produces and cuts about 90,000 tons of sugar cane each year

“I remember the days where you’d be burning most nights during the crush, whereas these days evening work is required only for occasional problematic irrigation from time to time,” Russell explained.

“These improvements have meant that growers can have more time to enjoy other areas of their life and with their families.”

Now, Russell is welcoming the fifth generation of Biggs’ onto the farm with his son Kent, returning to the area to help Russell on the farm, finishing up his own career in the mines in Townsville.

His daughter, Michelle, lives in the Gold Coast, the lead teacher of pedagogy and curriculum at Helensville State High School.

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Russell Biggs gives everything a go, now being the fourth generation of Biggs on his 360-hectare farm. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge

Whitsunday Tourism operators are moving towards lowering carbon emissions from tourism activities, following a workshop hosted by Whitsunday Regional Council.

Whitsunday Council held the Moving Towards Lower Carbon Tourism Workshop, as part of the Whitsunday Healthy Heart Project (WHHP) and welcomed guest speaker ecoBiz and local tourism operators.

Whitsunday Council Mayor Julie Hall said the workshop was aimed at supporting the Whitsunday tourism sector in understanding decarbonisation and the impact that it may have on businesses’ reducing running costs.

“With the right tools and support, tourism businesses can commence the journey to decarbonisation as well as benefit from reduced running costs through the management of energy, waste, and water.

“Measuring the carbon footprint of your business has never been easier thanks to the Whitsunday Healthy Heart Project’s online carbon calculator and the support of the ecoBiz programme.”

The workshop also included a talk from James Straker, from the Whitsunday Regional Council’s Manager of Water and Recycling.

“Local businesses can proactively address waste by developing effective onsite separation of waste components, investigating where waste can be reduced, and looking for recycling and reuse options,” Mr Straker said.

One member of the Healthy Heart Project is Magnums Accommodation, with Executive Manager, Evelyn Anderson, presenting benefits of the programme on the day.

Ms Anderson explained how Magnums Accommodation has been able to move closer to their decarbonisation goals, thanks to the qualified support and tools of the WHHP and ecoBiz.

The Whitsunday Healthy Heart Project is funded by the Great Barrier Reef Foundation and Managing Director Anna Marsden said we’re already seeing the effects of climate change in many parts of our Reef and the time to act is now.

“We’re proud to be working towards a carbon neutral Reef industry in the Whitsundays as part of our Reef Islands initiative, which is protecting the habitats of the thousands of species of marine life that call the Reef home,” Ms Marsden said.

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Whitsunday tourism operators are working to lower carbonisation

The young girl who proved that buck jumping was not just a man’s domain.

While many people may have heard of Proserpine’s Billy Waite - World Class Buck Jump Rider - just how many would be aware of the feats of a young Rachel Hood Watts who could also lay claim to taming a wild, bucking horse?

Inspired with all the fire and vigour of youth, this brave young girl accomplished what was, in the late 1930s/early 1940s, a rare achievement – becoming one of Australia’s most outstanding equestrians. Her steadfast determination and supreme confidence, combined with her kind and gentle love of horses enabled her to conquer the most daring and perilous tasks.

At the age of only sixteen, she made her courageous debut in public when she entered the arena of a travelling buck jumping show to mount North Queensland’s notorious outlaw, “The Devil”. In spite of the horse’s mad fury and outrageous buck jumping, when the bell rang, Rachel was still on top of the horse. Quietly smiling, she leapt off, leaving that remarkable success indelibly imprinted on the audience “who with praise and admiration witnessed the scene.” (“Proserpine Guardian” February 28 1942.)

Again, at the local rodeo, competing against some of Australia’s best horsemen, she displayed her ability gained in cattle camps when she won the open camp draft against all comers. All who were fortunate to see her ride recognised her as a champion.

Rachel had little desire of pompous prominence. Her interests were centred in the wide-open spaces with her horses and dogs and the freedom of the bush. From earliest childhood, she was her father’s constant companion. She rode with him across the plains, over the mountains and through the scrub, working cattle and sleeping by a campfire under the canopy of stars.

The baby of the family, Rachel was her father’s idol; her mother’s joy and the pride of her family. So, when, after a short illness, she died in the Proserpine Hospital on February 4 1942, one month short of her 18th birthday, the family was grief stricken.

Rachel is buried in the Proserpine Cemetery and her cause of death is recorded as erysipelas – a type of skin infection which today would be easily treated. Fittingly, her headstone bears the image of a horse.

In the report of her death in the “Proserpine Guardian” Saturday 28 February 1942, (an extract from which appears below), Rachel Hood Watts was described in glowing terms. Her passing was keenly felt by many.

A Noted Horse Woman

RACHEL HOOD WATTS.

As the storm broke, the rain fell, and day darkened, there passed from this world one of the brightest and happiest souls, Rachel Hood Watts, youngest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. W. Watts, Andromache River, Proserpine. In nature's own garden she grew just like a sweet wild flower, with petals only half unfurled, revealing the beauty and splendour within, too rare and precious to wither and fade on this earth - that flower has been plucked away, but its fragrance will linger forever.

Inspired with all thefire and vigour of youth, this brave young girl accomplished a rarely feminineachievement - one of Australia's most outstanding horse women. Her kind heart,steadfast determination and supreme confidence enabled her to conquer the mostdaring and perilous tasks.

Alas! No more will their hearts fill with proud exultation at the greatness of her earthly fame but the deep avalanche of sadness, left there will forever remain. Until they all meet, again at the "Last Great Round-up in the Skies."

Story and photo courtesy of Proserpine Historical Museum

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It is with great sadness that we bid farewell to Kerry Latter, a beloved figure in the Mackay community. Kerry's dedication and care extended beyond his role as a prominent advocate for the sugar industry and CEO of CANEGROWERS Mackay. He was a champion of small businesses, a passionate political supporter, and a genuine and kind-hearted person.

Many in our community will fondly remember Kerry's time as the owner of the Carinya corner store, where he became a familiar face and a friend to many. He went out of his way to support local initiatives, and our publication was one of them. From the inception of our newspaper, Kerry was an ardent advocate, eager to ensure that his store had copies from our first week of print. However, a funny incident occurred that showcased his unwavering dedication and attention to detail.

On the first morning we published our newspaper, Kerry called me in a panic, believing that we had mistakenly delivered a stack of 'Whitsunday Life' newspapers instead of 'Mackay Life' newspapers. I assured him that it was simply a misunderstanding caused by the flip format of our publication. The stack had been delivered upside down, and all he needed to do was flip the newspapers over. A sense of relief washed over him, and we shared a light-hearted moment in the midst of the newspaper's early days. It was a testament to Kerry's commitment and support for endeavours he believed in.

Beyond his involvement in the sugar industry and small businesses, Kerry was a passionate advocate for causes that touched his heart, including his support for Broken Ballerina. His kindness and unwavering support for those making positive contributions in the community were hallmarks of his character. Kerry saw the good in people and was always full of praise for those striving to make a difference.

While his absence is deeply felt, his memory will forever be etched in the fabric of our community. You can read the touching tribute to Kerry from CANEGROWERS Mackay on page 13.

We extend our deepest sympathies to Kerry's family and friends during this difficult time.

Vale Kerry Latter. Your presence will be deeply missed, but your impact will live on in the hearts and minds of all who had the privilege of knowing you.

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An annual evening to honour the region’s elders was held recently, hosted by Atsichs Mackay Ltd and supported by the Department of Justice.

Murri Court Coordinator and Event Organiser Veronica Ah-Wang said it was a night to celebrate the elders and let them enjoy a night away from any responsibilities.

“It’s a way to look after them and appreciate who they are,” she said.

“Our elders are our knowledge keepers and it’s up to the younger generation to tap into that.

“Our older generation, they’re passing, they’re taking all that knowledge with them and if it wasn’t for them, we wouldn’t be here.

“Our elders are very important people, and they need to be respected in that way.”

It was the event’s third iteration but the first year a Mrs and Mr Naidoc were crowned for their services to the community, with Mrs Merle Barba and Mr Albert “Butch” Lingwoodock receiving the honours.

“Uncle Butch does a lot of things in community and after hours; for a lot of the elderly who can’t get around, he’ll go and get their medications and stuff like that,” explained Ms Ah-Wang.

“Aunty Merle was a big advocate back in the day for housing, the medical centres and things like that.

“When she was awarded her award, she gave recognition to the elders who couldn’t be there.”

Ms Ah-Wang is looking forward to the evening getting bigger and better with each year.

“I personally would like to thank each and every one of the elders who attended on the night and all the elders that were nominated,” she said.

“It just goes to show that the community does respect these elders who were put forward.”

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Mrs and Mr Naidoc Merle Barba and Albert “Butch” Lingwoodock

Photo credit: SarahHearts Photography

Going to hospital can be daunting no matter your age, but one young girl’s experience was brightened by the kindness of a nearby stranger.

Kellie Ungerer posted in the Mackay Noticeboard Facebook group sharing the good deed of a young man and his partner after her two-year-old was admitted to the Mackay Base Hospital last weekend.

“A young man was across the hall, who had been admitted too in the afternoon,” she wrote.

“I didn’t catch his name but not only did he offer for his partner to buy us something to eat for my daughter as she was scoffing down sandwiches after not really eating the last few days, but he came back with this lovely little pink plush teddy and she just truly adores it.”

“She has even put a mask on it, like her daddy had on when he came up.”

Kellie didn’t catch the names of the couple, but said the gesture will never go unnoticed.

“I hope you make a speedy recovery,” she wrote.

“Thank you again for being so kind and thoughtful.”

The post garnered over 850 likes, with the couple seeing it and identifying themselves as Sarah Williams and Damen Gardner.

“We’ve got twins, and your daughter reminded him of our little girl,” Sarah commented.

“He’s (Damen) very much an empath, and just wanted to do something for her to help her feel a bit better.

“We’re so glad Ellie loves her teddy, and we hope she’s feeling better soon.”

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A couple kindly gifted a teddy to a young girl at Mackay Base Hospital. Photo supplied

Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) has welcomed experienced health professional Susan Gannon as its new Chief Executive.

Mackay Hospital and Health Board Administrator Karen Roach said Ms Gannon’s appointment followed a national recruitment process.

“We are delighted to welcome Susan to the team,” Ms Roach said.

“Her management skills and clinical experience mean she is well placed to provide Mackay HHS with the direction it needs.”

Before the move to Mackay, Ms Gannon worked with Tasmanian Health Services for six years and was the State-wide Executive Director of Nursing and Midwifery for one year.

She has worked in senior management positions for women’s and children’s services as well as medicine, emergency, cancer and surgical services, and also has experience in primary education.

Having filled roles across private and public health in Queensland, Victoria and Tasmania, Ms Gannon is ready to take on her next challenge.

“I want to make a difference and wherever I’ve worked, that was my goal,” she said.

“I’m very community focused and I think it’s really important to be a part of the community and have the community say what happens in their health service.”

Ms Gannon started at Mackay HHS last Monday, June 12 and said she’s received a positive first impression.

“Everyone is welcoming, and I think everyone’s on the same page trying to sort out the issues and move forward,” she said.

The appointment comes after the resignation of former Chief Executive Lisa Davies Jones in August 2022 and the sacking of the Mackay Hospital and Health Board in November 2022, which led to Ms Roach’s appointment.

Ms Roach said the new board is expected to be welcomed by the end of August.

“I think the Executive will find a much better relationship with the next board by understanding what the board is about, but also having a good understanding of what the executive needs from the board,” she said.

“The Chief Executive has a really important role running the operations but there are strategic decisions that the board has to make.

“There’s been a lot of grieving in this community, and we need to understand that and acknowledge it and take the Executive on that new path but always putting people at the front of what we do.”

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Mackay Hospital and Health Board Administrator Karen Roach welcomed new incoming Chief Executive Susan Gannon last week. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

Last weekend marked the ninth year Whitsunday Anglican School (WAS) hosted Mackay Sony Foundation Children’s Holiday Camp, running from June 17-19 and providing a unique opportunity for young people in the region living with a disability.

18 campers from Mackay and Moranbah were given the chance to go ‘on camp’ for three days of fun-filled action while giving their families and carers a well-earned break.

“It’s a great opportunity for us to give back to the community and make sure parents have some well-deserved respite while the campers get that excellent experience of a traditional school camp,” said WAS Teacher and Camp Co-Coordinator Nicole Ryan.

“They get to engage with other campers but our students as well, so they’ve all made a bunch of new friends and they get to try new activities with the safety of supervisors.

“The fact that so many campers come back year after year proves that they really enjoy the experience.”

A range of activities were on offer including swimming, gymnastics, arts and crafts, a movie night and a disco, the camp finishing with a carnival day on the last day.

The happy campers stayed at the WAS boarding house, with ninety WAS students from years 8 to 12 helping take on the responsibility of care for children with disabilities.

“They really have to learn to be resilient,” Ms Ryan said.

“They’re finding it obviously challenging but rewarding more than anything; they’ve made new friends, they’ve taught them how to engage with each other and how to make sure everyone is safe, so they’ve learnt a lot of skills along the way.”

Faith was one of many year 11 students who were put in groups as companions, with two students assisting with each camper.

“We’re all working together, taking care of our companion and also stepping in where other people need it,” she said.

“It’s been really awesome learning about compassion and working together.”

Year 12 student Kayla returned this year as a helper, after being a companion last year.

“I really enjoyed it last year, so it was exciting to get the chance to come back and see everybody and help out with the whole experience again,” Kayla said.

“It feels a little bit different coming from being a companion to being a helper because you’re so used to helping someone else out but then when you step back you realise how much of an impact being a companion was and now you get to have those behind-the-scenes impacts as well.”

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Campers were treated to a petting zoo and carnival rides on the last day of the Mackay Sony Foundation Children’s Holiday Camp. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie