Since April, Jacob Nicholls has been guiding Mackay and Whitsundays listeners through their mornings with infectious energy and positivity on hit100.3 Mackay.

Jacob has joined the team as Announcer & Operations Manager and is loving every minute of it.

“I’m very lucky to do something that I genuinely love doing every day for a job,” he said.

“It’s pretty surreal to be here.”

Growing up in Brisbane, Jacob started in radio about four years ago after calling his local station Bay FM in the Brisbane bayside suburb of Thornlands.

“I basically called the local community radio station and thought, ‘I reckon I’d be ok at that,’” he said.

After eight weeks of training, Jacob secured an on-air role and volunteered at the station for about three years while studying and working part-time.

“I really didn’t know what sort of career path I wanted to take so I was sort of filling in time for a while to make a bit more of an educated decision,” he said.

Paid opportunities in the industry were rare thanks to the pandemic but Jacob eventually joined the Street Team with B105 and Triple M in Brisbane, working there for nearly 12 months when he was told by multiple people that there was a job going in Mackay that he’d be well suited for.

He applied and was stoked to learn he got the job, moving up from Brisbane within nine days of learning the news.

Jacob says he’s found Mackay to be a friendly town where people are always up for a chat.

“It’s just been the good community feel, it sort of reminds me of a big country town,” he said.

“I really want to do a bit more exploring around town and make the most of it here, because we’re just lucky to live in north Queensland.”

As Announcer & Operations Manager, Jacob is on-air from 9AM to midday daily and spends his afternoons preparing for the rest of the week, saying every day is different.

“A lot of my morning is taken up trying to bring some positive energy to the people of Mackay and The Whitsundays,” he said.

“I always think that energy is infectious so if you’re upbeat and positive and happy and spreading those sort of vibes, the aim is to hope that it translates to the listeners as well and at least make their day slightly brighter than what it was when they woke up in the morning.”

Jacob Nicholls started on the air with hit100.3 Mackay in April

The Mackay community fired up for the recent 30-year celebration of Flagon and Dragon, the region’s bi-annual fundraising luncheon which aims to better the lives of sick and disabled children.

Dressed in ornate oriental patterns with a Chinese theme, the Flagon and Dragon fundraising lunch held at the Manta Marquee on July 15 raised an impressive $210,000 for local charities. Now, the Flagon and Dragon committee are calling on local charities to apply for the grants.

Groups and organisations who are dedicated to the health, well-being and future of Mackay’s local children are urged to apply. Applications outlining the purpose of the donation requests and the beneficiaries of the money donated will be taken into consideration and viewed by the Flagon and Dragon committee.

The recipients of the last Flagon and Dragon grants include Mackay Hospital Foundation, All Abilities Mackay, Ronald McDonald House Charities, and the Children’s Ward at the Mackay Mater Hospital.

Eligible applications will need to meet the following criteria:

• Funds will be used for medical health-related equipment / resources / activities primarily for children or young people

• Those children or young people live within the Mackay & surrounding district

• Equipment and/or services must benefit a large number of children or young people (Funding not available for equipment/resources for individuals)

• Where appropriate, details of equipment to be purchased and a minimum of two (2) quotes must be provided (if such equipment can only be sourced through one agency, please clarify)

• Resources or equipment are not otherwise available to children or young people in the Mackay & surrounding district

• Provision of these resources or equipment will serve to enable children or young people to remain in their own environment with family close by

• Provision of these resources/ equipment will provide an immediate & lasting benefit to children & young people in the Mackay & surrounding district.

Images from the 2022 Flagon & Dragon Fundraising Luncheon

As we rapidly approach the peak of magpie season, Mackay Regional Council is reminding residents that we share our parklands and reserves with many native bird species, including a small number that display aggressive behaviour at nesting time.

A study has shown that only nine per cent of magpies are aggressive towards people and this small proportion of magpies usually swoop between July and November.

Earlier this month, a five-year-old attending a birthday party in Mulherin Park was swooped upon by a magpie causing scratches to her face and head, highlighting the importance of magpie awareness.

A magpie will usually only defend the area within 110m to 150m of its nest, called its ‘defence zone’.

Some top tips for staying safe while outdoors include:

• wear a broad-brimmed hat and sunglasses or shelter under an umbrella to protect your face from swooping magpies (painting or sticking large ‘eyes’ on the back of your hat can also deter magpies—but this won’t work for cyclists)

• if a magpie swoops while you are cycling, it will probably stop swooping if you get off your bike and walk

• avoid “defence zones” by taking alternative routes during the breeding season

• if you must enter a “defence zone”, magpies will be less likely to swoop if they are watched constantly, or if people walk in a close group

• waving sticks or umbrellas in the air or attaching a brightly coloured flag on a long pole to your bicycle can stop magpies from swooping.

Magpies are only defending their families, so make sure to be magpie-friendly and don’t fight back.

Throwing sticks and stones or yelling at a magpie are likely to make it more aggressive next time anyone enters the defence zone around their nest.

Residents are encouraged to report any concerns they have about swooping birds in council parks or reserves so that council can provide information on how to avoid being swooped and look to place warning signs in the location.

There is also a community-run website, www.magpiealert.com, where residents can provide and receive alerts about swooping magpies Australia-wide that’s well worth checking out.

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A 19-year-old Mirani man died following a two-vehicle crash in Marian last week on September 10.

Police reported that preliminary information indicates a truck and motorbike were travelling on Marian Eton Road at approximately 8am when a collision occurred. The rider was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The truck driver was physically unharmed. Police added that the Forensic Crash Unit is investigating.

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Can You Help Police With This Calen Crash?

Also on September 10 police and emergency services were called to a single vehicle crash on Buthurra Station Road near Calen.

The single occupant, a 45-year-old man from Mount Ossa, of the Hilux Utility was trapped and emergency services had to work hard to remove him from the vehicle.

Once he was extricated from the crash he was transported to hospital.

Investigations are ongoing as to the cause of the crash.

If you have any information that will help with the investigation, please quote QP2201558077 when talking to police.

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A ute was involved in a single vehicle crash near Calen on September 10

A couple relocating to Mackay from New Orleans has enlisted the assistance of American reality TV series House Hunters International to find their perfect Mackay home.

Filming for the episode took place throughout the region earlier in the month, showing audiences the sights of Mackay.

In each episode of House Hunters International, individuals, couples or families who are relocating to a new country search for their new home with the assistance of a local real estate agent.

Buyers are shown three homes in their new location and are tasked with picking the one that suits their needs best.

The New Orleans couple, who have relocated for a job at Mackay Mater Hospital, were shown houses in South Mackay, Sarina and Slade Point.

Filming also took place at Cape Hillsborough National Park, Reg Dog Brewery, 9th Lane Grind, the sugar cane fields, Marina Harbour Breakwater and the Mackay Region sign at the south entrance of the city, showing international audiences what makes our region great.

Mackay Isaac Tourism (MIT) assisted producers by providing recommendations on beautiful locations within the region and members they could work with.

The MIT team says one of the many perks of being a member of Mackay Isaac Tourism, as Reg Dog Brewery and 9th Lane Grind are, is that they always push for members to feature in any media opportunities that will help showcase the destination as a place to visit.

If you would like more information on how to get involved in future opportunities, contact MIT Tourism Development Manager Andrea on developments@mackayregion.com.

The episode of House Hunters International will be aired in America in about three weeks and in Australia a year from now.

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American reality TV series House Hunters International filmed an episode in Mackay earlier this month, showcasing the natural beauty of the region

Local businesses were also given the spotlight including Red Dog Brewery and 9th Lane Grind. Photos supplied: Mackay Isaac Tourism

If you’re a regular Mackay’s Coffee Clubs, you probably already know you’ve been drinking some of Australia’s best coffee made by some of Australia’s best baristas.

Now it’s official as the Coffee Club has excitedly revealed their Barista Champion of the Year, Mackay’s Janice.

After 100s of entrants served their most brew-tiful cups of coffee on local and state levels, Janice took home the title of Barista Champion following their performance which blew judges’ socks off.

Janice will now compete in the Coffee Club International Barista Competition taking place this October.

Janice has scored a trip to India where she will get to experience the ultimate trip for a coffee lover: a tour of the sprawling coffee fields that grow The Coffee Club's award-winning Signature House Blend.

More information on the International Barista Competition is to come.

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Mackay Coffee Club Barista Janice has been named Australia’s best. Photo supplied: The Coffee Club Australia

The RSL Mackay Sub Branch has made donations to local army, air force and navy cadet units as part of an RSL Queensland initiative to support youth development.

Every year, RSL Queensland makes funds available for youth and cadet development, distributing funds throughout the districts to be further dispersed into the community.

Mackay 122 Army Cadet Unit Commanding Officer Major John Zimmerman said the Mackay Sub Branch contacted the cadet unit giving them the opportunity to apply for a portion of those funds.

“We put in an application to the Mackay sub branch and it was received favourably at district level,” he said.

The Mackay Sub Branch then sponsored the application that was made at the district level.

Major Zimmerman said the funds will be put towards the purchase of new formal uniforms for the cadets.

“Each year, the unit has a formal night,” he said.

“The unit generally has had enough of those uniforms donated over the years, but last year, we were actually short.

“We’ve got so many people at that higher level, at the moment, that we just didn’t have enough uniforms.

“So, we thought, this year, that would be a good thing to put in for, so that we have enough uniforms for all of the people in that category to be able to come dressed in the appropriate uniform.”

Major Zimmerman said the cadets rely heavily on fundraising for these sorts of purchases and appreciate the RSL’s support.

“The fact that the RSL does make these grants available for youth development, it’s really important,” he said.

“There would be so much over the years that we simply wouldn’t have if the RSL didn’t have this youth development program.

“They (RSL) made a point of coming to ask and asking if we want to apply for the funding…They are really keen to get the money out to the cadets…and we’re most appreciative.”

A donation was also made to 105 Squadron Air Force Cadets to purchase equipment for the cadets to use in their training.

RSL Mackay Sub Branch President Ken Higgins said the sub branch are proud to support local cadets.

“The Mackay RSL continues to support all of our cadet units in Mackay and the district,” he said.

“It’s an ongoing funding that we’re very proud and happy to continue for the foreseeable future.”

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Mackay RSL President Ken Higgins and Secretary Nichole Hood presented the Mackay 122 Army Cadet Unit with a donation last week

Mr Higgins and Ms Hood presented Fiona Andrews and the 105 SQN City of Mackay Air Force Cadets with a donation. Photos supplied: Graham Jackson

The Commonwealth was rocked last week by the sudden yet peaceful passing of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, the UK's longest-serving monarch.

Her death touched people across the world in more ways than many thought possible. A cherished sovereign, she was largely ‘untouchable’, indeed it had to be a very special occasion for one to catch a glimpse of the Queen, let alone meet her.

Yet, she found a way into many hearts, whether through her unwavering dedication to duty, her bravery as a teenager during World War II, or her candid love of photography. As we saw recently in her famous Paddington Bear encounter, or her role in the 2012 London Olympics where James Bond escorted Her Majesty to the Opening Ceremony, she had quite the sense of humour.

For me personally, she reminded me of my grandmother, both in looks and mannerisms. A few years ago, I put two photos of two women in their twenties on Facebook and asked my friends to ‘guess the Queen’. One photo was of Queen Elizabeth II and the other was my grandmother. Most people chose the photo of my grandmother as the Queen, their likeness was quite uncanny.

It's the beginning of a new chapter for Australia and its relationship with the monarchy. In this edition on page 3 we talk about what the Queen’s death means for Australians.

One thing is for certain, a reign like hers could never be repeated.

Amanda

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In the death of Queen Elizabeth II, the international community mourns the loss of a beloved mother and family member, Sovereign of the member states of the Commonwealth of Nations, and an active woman of Christian faith whose steadfast devotion to duty arose from her deep Christian conviction and commitment.

Her role as Defender of the Faith, which, from the political union forged in the early 1700s, has included support for the Church of England and the Church of Scotland, involved a personal commitment to spread the gospel.

Well-versed in questions of Christian unity, when in 2001 my husband the Rev. Prof. James Haire AC, who was then president Uniting Church in Australia, met the Queen at the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, she could talk intelligently and with interest about the relatively recently-established Uniting Church in 1977.

Her favourite text was the Parable of the Good Samaritan, in 2016 with the Bible Society she published a gift book entitled, The Servant Queen and the King She Serves, and through her Christmas messages broadcast throughout the world she gave explicit personal testimony of the role of faith in her life thus living out the Great Commission recorded in Matthew 28: ‘go and make disciples of all nations.’

History may record that, during a time of secularisation, of retreat of the voice of the Church from the public sphere, it was a woman and a lay person, who personally studied the Bible, attended church regularly, and sought to express faith in action in daily life, who served the world as one of the greatest evangelists of the C20th and C21st centuries.

In her first Christmas broadcast in 1952 she called for prayer for wisdom and strength, and her Christmas message for 2008 included the reflection: ‘I hope that, like me, you will be comforted by the example of Jesus of Nazareth who, often in circumstances of great adversity, managed to live an outgoing, unselfish and sacrificial life…He makes it clear that genuine human happiness and satisfaction lie more in giving than receiving; more in serving than in being served.’

REV. DR JULIA PITMAN

ST PAUL’S UNITING CHURCH

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R U OK, Constant Reader?

Yesterday was a special day when we asked each other how we were feeling. An opportunity to have an open and honest conversation, you and I.

One of my mother’s favourite sayings is: “A problem shared is a problem halved.” I believe in that more than I could ever express.

I think we’re very fortunate to live in a time when mental health awareness is becoming so de-stigmatised. I’m sure that a lot of people out there remember when it wasn’t – it hasn’t been the case in my lifetime – and I count myself so lucky for that.

Yesterday was an exceptional example of that growing awareness, as the non-for-profit charity R U OK? spread its message of how conversation can change lives. Across the country, people asked (and should continue to ask) each other how they’re travelling.

R U OK? Day is just brilliant, isn’t it?

So, for something different in my return to the Editor’s hot seat this week, I’ve got an offer: I want to tell you how I’m feeling, and for you to send me email to tell me how you’re going, too. Because we all struggle a little sometimes, and there’s power in telling each other that.

For me, this week’s been a bit tough. Lots of things conspiring to make me feel overwhelmed, to make me feel inadequate, I suppose. Those feelings feed off each other, and it’s a cycle that I know all too well. So, what have I done about it? I’ve told people. I spoke to good friends, to family, and I spoke to anyone who would listen. I got out and about, I went for walks and runs, and I practiced mindfulness – because not everything your brain tells you is true, nor is it helpful.

So, that’s how I’m feeling. What about you?

Email me at declan@mackayandwhitsundaylife.com

Quote of the week:

“I can see the sun, but even if I cannot see the sun, I know that it exists. And to know that the sun is there - that is living.”- Fyodor Dostoevsky, The Brothers Karamazov

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A group of dedicated and proactive individuals have banded together to create a tangible and practical solution for affordable housing in our region and it is hoped that this project will act as an example for others to follow.

Whitsunday Housing Company, who currently manage 130 social houses in the region, are working alongside their Chair and local Councillor Jan Clifford, as well as local philanthropist Sandy Clark to create four affordable houses in Proserpine.

The land, which is adjacent to the community centre, has been donated by the Whitsunday Regional Council and funding to complete the construction of the homes is being partly paid for with funds from Whitsunday Housing Company.

A host of charity events, sponsorship opportunities and fundraising projects coordinated by Ms Clark will contribute the remaining.

“Everything is against us, but we will win!” said Ms Clark.

Women over 55 are at the highest risk of becoming homeless and the four houses in Proserpine will be allocated specifically to assist this demographic.

“Homeless women aren’t as out there as others, they tend to hide in their cars or use family and friends, hop from one couch to the other,” said Cr Clifford.

“It’s almost hidden but it’s a huge problem and it is the fastest growing demographic of homelessness in the nation - it’s an embarrassment, we are not a third world country!”

After some research Whitsunday Housing Company have narrowed the housing options down to two of the most affordable – either a one-roof row of four houses or four prefabricated one-day granny flats.

It is estimated the entire project will cost $500,000 including a shared driveway and the team aim to complete the build by mid-2023.

There are currently 55 individuals waiting for single-person social housing in the Whitsundays and these four homes will be given to those who are most in need.

The group are now calling for anyone able to donate time or goods to the project, as every little saving will help.

“We’ve got to unite people in the community so we have a sense of urgency and a sense of responsibility,” said Ms Clarke.

“Because this could be your mother, aunt or sister.”

How can you help? You could donate the following:

• Air conditioning units and installation

• A workforce to paint the walls

• Supply white goods such as washing machine or fridge

• Blinds and curtains

• Pavers and earthworks

• Lighting and electrical fit-out

• Plumbing - install bathrooms and water

• Furnishings such as lounge suite, kitchen table

Any contribution would be more than appreciated, even if you are offering something as simple as your time. Reach out to Whitsunday Housing Company on 4946 7194 to register your interest.

Sandy Clarke is also taking corporate sponsorships – for $20,000 a business can have their name on a plaque to sponsor one of the homes. There are also a variety of sponsorship packages available for her upcoming Charity Cocktail Party Fundraiser and she is happy to discuss fundraising avenues if any local business would like to get involved. Simply phone Sandy on 0416 181 348.

Kim Porter from Whitsunday Uniting Church, Jill Morris from Whitsunday Housing Company, Stephanie Cora from Bowen Neighbourhood Centre, Tim Oberg, Tim Mander MP, Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP and Rebecca Woods from Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre

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Published author of three political thriller novels and former Federal Politician, Richard Evans, has just moved to the Whitsundays from Melbourne and is already working on a book based in his new home.

A corporate executive for much of his life and a politician in the 1990s, Evans says he understands “the tribalism, the bullying, the manipulation of power, the backstabbing and the egos” involved with high-powered positions and feels inspired to write about them in his books.

Using his political insider knowledge to write page-turning thrillers exposing the dark art of politics, Evans draws upon the turbulent era when Keating and Howard were

faced with demanding social and economic issues.

He writes about contemporary topics like parliamentary integrity, women’s equality, Aboriginal sovereignty, water rights, and euthanasia.

Part of the emerging genre in political and parliamentary thrillers, Evans released his first book, Deceit, in 2018. He has now published a total of six books that are available across Australia. His next book, The Mallee, examines the issue of water rights and will be released in November 2022.

Bringing this wealth of knowledge to the Whitsundays, Evans hopes to be inspired by the local environment.

“We chose Airlie Beach because of its many gems, especially its sense of

community, and we are slowly working our way through its splendour,” he said.

“But I’m conscious of ensuring my writing day is productive and already I am working through a thriller based in the region, as well continuing to support writers who wish to self-publish their work.”

Highly regarded political thriller author Richard Evans

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It might be a little too early in the year for November Rain but not for an explosive live tribute to “the most dangerous band in the world” at the Airlie Beach Hotel in late September, booked for a very special Sunday Session event.

Take me down to The Pub when Paradise City - Guns N’ Roses Show bring an explosive live performance to Airlie, paying homage to one of the biggest bands of all time and their globe-conquering era.

The band, who launched to stardom with the highest selling debut album of all time, are brought back to life with this revival show for the ages. They’ll keep the high echelon shows rolling with an afternoon of rock at The Pub one week after GEED UP play on Saturday and Sunday, September 17 and 18.

New generations of youngsters have been blessed with a full catalogue of rock anthems to trawl through, and those who were there to see them live remember the vibration and electricity of their sound, idolising these iconic rock gods for decades.

In the ‘Paradise City’ – Guns N’ Roses show, Sweet Child O’ Mine fanatics have found the closest thing to the real deal in their prime.

If you’ve got an Appetite For Destruction, look no further than this astonishingly accurate homage to Guns N’ Roses in their world conquering era of ’87 to ’93.

It all starts with Paradise City front man, Paul, who channels Axl Rose’s unique vocals that’ll have you on your knees, feeling like you’ve travelled back in time.

Sweet Child O’ Mine, you’ll be absolutely spoilt by this resurrection of the early ’90s Guns N’ Roses style.

With authentic attire, lead guitarist Nathan is almost possessed by the powerful playing of Slash and his classic style. With trademark Gibson Les Paul in hand, untamed afro, and the unmistakable top hat, it’ll be like one of the most renowned guitarists of all time is on the Bar Top Stage at Airlie Beach Hotel.

For two hours, ‘Paradise City’ run the gamut of Roses’ mega hits: Sweet Child O’ Mine, Paradise City, November Rain, Welcome To The Jungle, Patience, Don’t Cry, You Could Be Mine, Knockin’ On Heaven’s Door, and much, much more. Make sure you don’t miss the tasty selection of fan favourites, too, like Nightrain, Rocket Queen, Civil War, and Estranged to name a few.

Don’t miss this free show at the Airlie Beach Hotel and a resurrection of rock royalty and its ‘90’s style.

What: ‘Paradise City’ Guns ‘N’ Roses Show

When: 2.00pm to 5.30pm on Sunday, September 25

Where: The Airlie Beach Hotel

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For many people living with cancer in rural and remote areas, navigating the complex world of medical appointments and ensuring you are receiving the most effective treatment possible can be challenging.

In addition to that, living with cancer can be an isolating experience where even your well-intended friends and family members are unable to truly understand what you are going through.

Fortunately, there is help out there.

For the past nine years Natasha Leaver has been running the Bowen Cancer and Ostomy Support Group which helps connect people living with cancer, their families and carers.

By holding monthly meetings, the group has been able to help countless members over the years and regularly sees 20 people attend.

Don’t be fooled by the serious subject matter, however, this group definitely knows how to laugh and have fun, while also unearthing issues with the medical system that need addressing.

Earlier this year Natasha decided to start a branch of the group in Collinsville and when she told the Bowen crew, they all asked if they could come along.

With kind donations from the Seagulls Rugby League Club and Bowen Cricket Club they were able to raise funds to hire the Bowen PCYC mini bus so they could take the gang to Collinsville.

Eileen from the Opal Ridge Motel kindly provided lunch for everyone on the day and five new members came to the meet and greet.

The next gathering was held at Collinsville Community Centre in July and the following one is scheduled for Monday, September 19 at 10am.

If you are living with cancer, any type of cancer, don’t do it alone. Reach out to Natasha through the Facebook group and connect with others.

You can say as little or as much as you want at the meetings and if there is an issue you would like to raise or seek help with, then the group may be able to assist you.

WHAT: Bowen Cancer and Ostomy Support Group

WHERE: Collinsville Community Centre

WHEN: Monday, September 19 at 10am

Regular meetings are also held in Bowen – head to the Facebook page for more details or email socialmindhealth@outlook.com

The Collinsville Cancer and Ostomy Support meeting in July

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The annual Community Memorial Ceremony for those affected by suicide is taking place tomorrow morning and is inviting everyone to come down and remember the lives we have lost too soon.

A positive yet reflective service, the focus of the ceremony will be honouring the memory of loved ones and remembering the good times.

This is also an opportunity for families who have lived similar journeys to come together and quietly share a moment with people who understand what they have been through.

The service is hosted by Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN) and committee member Adriel Burley will lead the event.

Mr Burley has vast experience helping veteran families with deaths by suicide and has come down from Townsville especially for the service.

Pastor Olwyn Harris from Liberty Church in Proserpine will officiate and make a short presentation on the significance of the service.

Treasurer of WSPN Paul Burke said that the mood will be more reflective than sombre.

“Most importantly we have this time to remember and honour the memory of those that have been lost and taken their own lives,” he said.

“Particularly to remember the good times with those people, reflect on their lives and what they meant to us.”

The official ceremony will last just 30 minutes, after which everyone is invited outside to the waterfront where they will be given a yellow sunflower.

They are then invited to stand and think of happy memories with their lost one before casting the sunflower into the water and watching as it slowly drifts away.

Afterwards, everyone is welcome to go back inside the main building for tea and coffee with the opportunity to chat with others, share experiences and helpful tools for getting through tough days.

If you are worried about a loved one or would like to reach out and talk to a professional about your own mental wellbeing, there are a variety of free and confidential numbers you can call.

Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14

Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636

MensLine Australia: 1300 78 99 78

Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467

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