Melbourne (Mel) Ward - one of the “characters” of the island history of the Whitsundays.

Born in Melbourne in 1903 (hence his name), Mel Ward was the son of Hugh J. Ward, a well-known American theatrical entrepreneur of the early 1900s. This led to Mel’s taking to the stage early in his life as an acrobatic dancer, musician and comedian. However, he soon tired of that life and in the 1920s retired from the stage to pursue his hobby and obsession, marine zoology; a field in which he became an internationally acknowledged expert and an honorary lecturer to the Australian Museum in Sydney.  A small red crab which he discovered on a Queensland beach in his early days was named after him - Cleistostoma wardii.

Mel’s connection with the Australian Museum led to his becoming a private lecturer on marine life to members of the Embury Expeditions which had their first outing on Lindeman Island in December 1928, a role for which he was well suited, his theatrical background giving him the ability to make his lectures entertaining and absorbing. (The story of the Embury expeditions were detailed in earlier editions of this paper – March 3 and March 10)

In the accompanying photo of Mel with a catch as big as himself and taken during the Embury Expedition, he comes across as the character and extrovert he was and it confirms a description of him in the Australian Dictionary of Biography - “Sun browned and stocky with big blue eyes and a mass of curly hair.”

Mel’s experience on Lindeman Island must have made a big impression on him because, in 1933, he and his wife, Halley,* moved to Lindeman Island to take up residence in the old bungalow which had served earlier as the main living quarters for guests to the island.  There, until 1935, Mel conducted a detailed study of the island’s marine ecology, along the way setting up a small museum of marine life in one half of the bungalow.  Once again, his background served him well in entertaining visitors to his museum. In fact, he and his wife more directly entertained visitors to the island by playing duets on saxophone and guitar.

When the association of the Nicolson family with Mackay Tours in developing the island’s tourist potential was concluded, a syndicate was formed to carry on the task. It comprised of Angus Nicolson, George Gordon-MacLeod and Mel Ward but, in 1935, he resigned from the syndicate, selling his shares to Lachlan Nicolson who later was to become the leading figure in the development of the resort.  

Thereafter, Mel returned to Double Bay in Sydney to take an increasing interest in indigenous people and their relationship with local flora and fauna.  During World War II, he became an honorary entertainer and lecturer to the Australian Army Education Service and taught Australian jungle fighters tropical hygiene and how to live off the land in the Dorrigo rainforest. In 1943, he moved to the Blue Mountains to open his Gallery of Natural History and Native Art at the Hydro Majestic Hotel.  

Mel Ward died on October 6, 1966 at Medlow Bath in the Blue Mountains. Thus passed a man of extraordinary talent, known in world-wide zoological circles for his research capabilities and achievements and one of the characters in the history of the Whitsunday Islands.  

* It is the understanding that Halley was born in 1910 and named after Halley’s Comet which made a spectacular display when it passed by in April that year.

Story and photo courtesy of Proserpine Historical Museum and “The Whitsunday Islands – An Historical Dictionary” by Ray Blackwood.

‍

Mackay’s oldest family-held farm celebrated 150 years last week, with family, friends and special guests gathering on the property to mark the occasion on Saturday, August 12.

The farm, named ‘Etowri’ after an aboriginal word said to mean ‘a good place to camp’, was purchased by Edward Denman for £214 on August 8, 1873, eleven years after the first settlement at Mackay.

150 years later, the 597-acre farm is owned by Edward’s grandson, Robert, and Robert’s son, David, and is recognised as one of the leading farms in the region for cattle and cane production.

Approximately 150 guests from as far as Melbourne, Newcastle, Sydney and Cairns travelled to Etowri to celebrate.

Robert Denman is the longest serving family member to have worked on his family farm Etowri, working on the property for 70 years since the age of 15.

He said life on the farm is varied and no two days are the same.

“I get up in the morning and I just start working,” he said.

“That’s what you’ve got to keep doing.

“You never know when you’re farming and you’ve got cane and cattle.

“You do what you’ve got to do.”

Robert joined family, friends and special guests last weekend to celebrate 150 years of Etowri, marking the occasion with speeches, historical displays and demonstrations.

Robert’s grandfather, Edward, left England in 1872, travelling to Rockhampton and Brisbane before ultimately selecting to purchase and settle on 597 acres of land approximately 9.5 miles, or 16km, from Mackay.

With no roads accessing the property, a track was cut from Richmond to Etowri using a horse and plough with a second track cut to access a butcher at Glendaragh (Glenella).

The diverse farm has served many purposes, with Edward originally planting maize before growing fruit and distilling his own rum.

The Denman’s then moved into cattle and cane, becoming heavily involved in Farleigh Mill, Mackay Show Society and other agricultural organisations.

“We’ve been a leader in the industry,” said Robert.

“I’ve been involved in the board of the Farleigh Mill, my father was on the board of Farleigh Mill, my grandfather was involved in milling.

“And ever since the inception of the show in 1897, I’d say there’d have been someone from the family on the show committee.”

The farm was the first in the region to have silos and chainsaws, as it also housed a dairy and a timber mill over the years, previously providing firewood to Farleigh Mill.

Robert is Mackay born and bred and was destined to a life on the land.

“In my lifetime, I’ve moved 400 metres from the corner down there to here,” he said.

He attended Etowri State School, which was located near the house and closed in 1953, before leaving school to work on the farm at age 15.

While life on the farm may seem tough, Robert said he’s loved every minute of it.

“I’ve been buried in trenches, come off horses, severely burnt, I’ve been through it all,” he said.

“It’s been a great life.

“Not many people have been employed at the same place for 70 years.”

Thanks to his involvement in the show society, Rotary Club of Mackay and Lifeline as well as Farleigh Mill, Mackay Rural Production Society and other organisations, Robert was named Mackay Regional Council’s Citizen of the Year in 2018.

With no plans to hang up the boots, Robert looks after everything on the farm, from fencing to bookwork, but hopes to pass these responsibilities onto his son, David, while continuing to work on the land.

‍

Jim Denman, Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson, Robert Denman, David Denman, Donald Denman and Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm. Photo credit: Deanne Woods Photography

Jim Denman, Helen Heron (nee Denman), Heather Denman, Robert Denman and Donald Denman

Brothers Donald and Robert Denman showcased their crosscut saw abilities.

150 guests gathered to celebrate. Photo credit: Deanne Woods Photography

‍

Hold onto your hats (or sunscreen), because the humpback whales have rolled into town, and boy, are they making waves – literally! It's that splendid time of the year when our coastal waters transform into a magnificent stage for these gentle giants. And let me tell you, they're putting on a show that deserves a standing ovation.

There’s plenty of action to be seen from the land. Lambert’s Lookout at Slade Point is a popular location due to its elevation, but if you look carefully at the horizon for the blowhole spray you can see them from most beaches. I had the delight of spotting them from Daydream Island last weekend at sunset. A pod put on an impressive display for my Kiwi friends who were extremely excited to see the mammals play near Lover’s Cove.

If you’re seeking a closer look, the Coral Sea is nature's own aquatic classroom, and we're all invited. A friendly reminder to boaties, while we're all for your salty escapades, let's remember that our maritime friends appreciate some personal space. Think of it like bumping into a celebrity – you admire from a respectful distance, right?

There are some rules to make sure we all coexist harmoniously. If a curious whale decides to glide over for a closer look, just ease up on the throttle and keep your speed around six knots or less. And if Mr. or Mrs. Whale gets a little too cosy, switch off those engines or gently retreat. The Department of Environment and Science has the specific rules listed on its website.

Here's to a whale of a time – may your encounters be respectful, your memories lasting, your sunscreen well applied and may you catch a ‘fluke’ on camera. Happy whale watching!

Amanda

‍

Paying it forward is the good deed that’s taking the fast-food drive-throughs of the world by storm, and one local gentleman has been recognised for doing it regularly.

Kat Simonsen recently posted in a local “Mums and Bubs” Facebook group after visiting the Red Rooster Mount Pleasant drive through where her purchase of $33 had been paid for by the driver in front.

Ms Simonsen shared details of the car, hoping to find its owner and share her appreciation.

“Would appreciate anyone who knows him or where he may work so I can thank him,” she wrote.

“Such a nice gesture.”

While the gentleman in question was later confirmed to not be a Facebook user and, indeed, not be a member of said “Mums and Bubs” group, his mother certainly was.

“This is my son, and he does this on a regular basis,” Kristy Saron commented.

“He has a beautiful heart and soul.

“Unfortunately, he is not on Facebook, but I can pass this on.

“I’m glad you got to experience a time of my son paying it forward.

“He will love to hear this.”

‍

At Mater Mackay

A ground-breaking robotic surgical system which will deliver state-of-the-art medical care to local patients has arrived at Mater Private Hospital Mackay.

The da Vinci X robotic system, which has been used to perform more than nine million urology, gynaecology, colorectal, cardiac, head, neck and thoracic surgeries worldwide, will begin operating in Mackay next month.

Mater Private Hospital Mackay Acting General Manager Chris Junge said the arrival of the world class system was a significant milestone for health care in Central Queensland.

“Robotic-assisted surgeries are becoming common in capital cities to improve patient outcomes, and it is exciting that the Mackay community is now able to benefit from these surgeries too,” Mr Junge said.

Mr Junge added that the da Vinci X surgical system was made possible by community fundraising conducted by Mater’s philanthropic arm, Mater Foundation.

“I want to thank everyone who has donated to Mater for helping to bring this technology to regional Queensland,” he said.

Mater Foundation Chief Executive Andrew Thomas said regional Queenslanders deserved equal access to the latest surgical technology and know-how.

“Thanks to community generosity, Mater is cementing itself as a leader in robotic-assisted surgeries in Queensland by investing in several surgical-assistive robots in Central Queensland,” Mr Thomas said.

“The da Vinci X will join the Stryker Mako and Zimmer-Biomet ROSA systems at Mater Private Hospital Mackay, which have also been proudly supported by community fundraising through the Mater Foundation.

“This is a story of the community coming together, including people who purchase a ticket in a Mater Prize Home for $2, people who support events like Mater Giving Day, and philanthropists, all united by the goal of improving patient outcomes.”

“Mater Foundation will continue to fund vital equipment as well as healthcare services to regional hospitals across Queensland to ensure that every Queenslander, regardless of where they live, has access to the best possible healthcare.”

Oakenden mechanic George Elcombe, 50, has already undergone robotic-assisted surgery with a similar system at Mater Private Hospital Townsville to remove prostate cancer.

Mr Elcombe said having access to the technology locally was a big coup for the region.

“I went to my GP and he referred me to urologist Dr Kenny Rao,” Mr Elcombe said.

“Through the tests, I discovered it was stage two cancer in my prostate.

“Dr Rao explained what was involved in robotic-assisted surgery and I agreed to that. In the end, I wasn’t even in the hospital for four days.”

Dr Rao said he had already performed more than 100 da Vinci procedures in Townsville, resulting in less pain and faster recoveries for patients.

“Being able to offer this very advanced level of surgery in Mackay, where our patients can stay close to their loved ones, is really exciting,” Dr Rao said.

“Surgical robots do not replace the role of surgeons, but they enhance the surgical experience for both clinicians and patients as they enable smaller incisions, greater manoeuvrability and, in many cases, shorter hospital stays, less pain and faster recovery times.”

‍

Mater Private Hospital Mackay Acting General Manager Chris Junge (left) and Adam Brown from Device Robotics watch the da Vinci X robotic system during a practice display at Mater Private Hospital Mackay. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

Year 10 students in Rockhampton and Mackay were given a taste of tradie life when they recently participated in the Try a Trade event hosted by WorldSkills Queensland, Construction Skills Queensland - CSQ and CQU.

CQU WorldSkills Coordinator, Jackie Campbell said it was wonderful to see educational institutions and industry partners coming together to provide students with a practical understanding of the different trades on show.

‍

Photos supplied: CQUniversity

Mackay Police Dog Squad has welcomed its newest team member, with Police Dog Cobra (PD Cobra) joining the force.

Cobra has been in Mackay for approximately three months, finishing his final training and development with Sergeant Jacob Bates and PD Griffin.

"Recruit" Dog Cobra was recently signed off and officially promoted to "PD" Cobra after a series of assessments at a Police Dog Training Course he and Sergeant Bates attended in Brisbane.

PD Cobra will now serve the Mackay and Whitsunday community working with his handler Sergeant Bates as an operational Police Dog in the Mackay Whitsunday Police Dog Squad.

PD Griffin will continue to work as an operational Police Dog with Sergeant Bates until his retirement later in the year.

“We are excited to have PD Cobra as a part of the team,” Sergeant Bates said.

“He has already proven himself and is exceeding expectations.

“While I don’t think PD Griffin is ready to hand over the reins just yet, it is an exciting and promising time having Cobra on board.”

PD Cobra is a general-purpose Police Dog, used for tracking and locating people of interest which includes missing persons.  

He can also work to apprehend violent offenders as well as work closely with first response police in a variety of circumstances.

Remember, if you see Police Dog teams working at any hour of the day, remain inside your homes and keep your dwelling secure.

‍

Police Dog Cobra

PD Griffin and PD Cobra. Photos supplied

Whitsunday Anglican School proudly played host to internationally acclaimed jazz great James Morrison recently.

Four of the School ensembles were excited to share the stage with The James Morrison Quartet at the Friday August 4 concert under the stars at the school.

Brass students from years 5 to 12 also enjoyed a special workshop with James Morrison before taking to the stage later that night.

Principal Andrew Wheaton spoke with enthusiasm about bringing a music legend to Mackay, and for his students to experience this opportunity.

“We are excited to have one of the world’s foremost jazz musicians inspire our young musicians,” Mr Wheaton said.

“Music is such a gift and James’ passionate stories shared this love through his teachings, and down to earth nature that encourages a lifelong love of music.”

A significant lynchpin of the event’s success was Head of Arts Faculty Mrs Kate Van Nunen who was instrumental in bringing the one-night concert and student workshops to fruition.

“At Whitsunday Anglican School we understand the importance of music in a child’s development and the neurological pathways learning an instrument opens,” Mrs Van Nunen

“To have the brilliant James Morrison at Whitsunday Anglican School is a career highlight for me personally and I’m sure will be imprinted on our young students forever.”

At the James Morrison Quartet jazz under the Stars concert, the talented Whitsunday Anglican School ensembles were proud supporting acts.

Students from years 5-7 were surprised when James Morrison snuck into the Trombone section in their second song.

The Whitsunday Winds and Senior Concert Band performed beautifully; the power of 60-plus members stunning the audience with their confidence and talent.

Off the back of their recent Gold at the CQUniversity Students Jazz Festival, the Whitsunday Anglican School Big Band then hit the stage with five polished pieces.

Students were ready to hold their own in the first piece with outstanding solo performances from Year 11 students Harrison Rourke (Baritone Saxophone) and Marley Clear (Trumpet).

James Morrison joined the students for the remaining songs, raising the energy to new heights, before playing with his renowned Quartet to the joy of the packed 700-plus crowd.

‍

Jazz icon James Morrison joined Whitsunday Anglican School students onstage before performing with his renowned quartet. Photos supplied

‍

Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox has thrown his support behind the announcement that a future Coalition government will commit $250 million in funding over the next four years to improve the lives of future sporting stars nation-wide.

Mr Willcox believes the commitment will make a lasting difference to the community and the lives of Dawson’s up-and-coming sporting stars.

“In rural and regional areas, unfortunately, sporting clubs and facilities are sometimes severely underfunded and under resourced,” he said.

“Too many young girls and women are disadvantaged when it comes to sport participation … this funding will help bridge the gap and will provide proper facilities for these groups.

“This package is aimed at improving sporting facilities where young families live and where participation in sport is vital.”

Under this new plan, the Coalition will invest $250 million to reduce barriers to participation for women and girls and is asking for support from states and territories to match the funding and bring it to a total of $500 million.

Recipients would need to demonstrate co-funding of at least 20 per cent of the project cost.

‍

Businesses have the chance to breathe new life into their building facades and enhance the overall experience for residents and visitors alike.

This council initiative, which has been in place for nine years, supports quality facade improvement works.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the Facade Improvement Grant was a collaborative effort between council and local property owners and business operators.

“By working together, we strive to encourage the revitalisation of commercial facades, infusing new vibrancy into the region's business districts,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Successful applicants will be eligible for a co-contribution of up to 50 per cent of the total project costs,” he said.

“Businesses can receive funding support of up to $5000, making it easier to embark on the facade enhancement projects they envision.”

The grant covers a wide range of improvement projects including:

● Painting of facades and exterior walls visible to the public realm.

● Restoration of historic buildings.

● Installation of new business signage.

● Renovation of entrance ways, doors, tiles and other facade elements.

● Installation of external awnings, lighting and street-visible windows.

To be eligible for a grant, applicants must meet specific criteria outlined in the guidelines, which can be found online at discovermackay.com.au/businesssupport.

‍

Tempus Studio, in Romeo Street, underwent a dramatic transformation thanks

to a Facade Improvement Grant in 2022

Reef Catchments, the Natural Resource Management organisation for the Mackay Whitsunday Isaac region, has been awarded $3.5 million from the Australian Government Saving Koalas Fund to expand and improve koala habitat in Sarina.

According to Reef Catchments Coordinator, Kira Andrews, “Our project provides meaningful support that enables the community to plant koala food and habitat trees for the creation of sustainable koala friendly corridors.”

The project also allows Sarina landholders to treat weeds such as lantana and guinea grass which pose a significant fire risk to koala habitat and choke out native trees.

“While there has been considerable attention and support for Southern Queensland koalas, this project represents the federal government’s first significant investment into koala conservation in the Mackay Whitsunday Isaac natural resource management area,” said Ms Andrews.

This investment was made possible by the commitment of the Sarina community to build and maintain connected landscapes to protect and conserve local koalas.

“We want to talk to local Sarina landholders who are interested in establishing koala habitat corridors across their properties,” Ms Andrews said.

“Reef Catchments is also looking for landholders who want help to manage weeds that are encroaching on nearby, established koala habitat.”

Charley Geddes, a local koala researcher based in Nebo, has identified over 400 koalas in and around Nebo. She has found koalas in all the places you would expect and many places you would not.

Charley says, "Every tree is important. Koalas only eat the leaves of a select few tree species - primarily eucalypts - so every single koala food and habitat tree that we can preserve, or plant is an opportunity to create a better future for koalas in our region."

‍

Photo credit: Charley Geddes

Mackay Police reported that between 3:00pm and 5:56pm on August 15 someone had broken into a home on Nine Mile Creek Road at Hampden.

“Entry was gained into the house which is situated on an elevated block through either the front or back door which were both later discovered open,” police said in a statement.

Nothing has been confirmed as stolen at this time.

This is not a location where police typically see activity of this nature and they are appealing for anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity or who has information to come forward.

The police report number to refer to is QP2301351614.

HOME BREAK IN, MARIAN

Mackay Police reported that between 2:00 and 6:00am on August 12 someone had broken into a home on Collett Court in Marian.

“The front door has been pried open and keys have been taken from a "key bowl" in the kitchen,” police reported.

“The keys have been used to steal a white coloured 2014 model Honda CRV which was parked in the driveway.”

The stolen Honda was found abandoned on Riverside Drive in Cremorne (Mackay) at about 10:20am on August 13. Minor damage had been sustained to the bonnet.

Police said the stolen car has been forensically examined.

Anyone who might have information about the original offence or the dumping of the car in Riverside Drive is encouraged to contact police as soon as possible. The police report number to refer to is QP2301329889.

‍

The official opening of the Seaforth Esplanade Redevelopment will take place next month, on Saturday, September 2, from 9.30am to noon.

Be one of the first to try the new playground and waterplay area and enjoy the free entertainment on offer including live music, face painting and the Seaforth mini markets. There will also be a free fishing clinic thanks to Mackay Recreational Fishers Alliance. Bring your own rod or reel. Places are limited and bookings are essential.

Don’t forget to bring your togs and towel to make a splash at the grand opening of this exciting new facility.

The official opening will be held from 9.30am to 10am and the free entertainment will kick off from 10am to noon.

This project is proudly funded by the Queensland Government’s Works for Queensland Program in association with Mackay Regional Council.

Learn more about this project at www.connectingmackay.com.au/seaforth-esplanade.

Old Playground Equipment To Be Decommissioned

Seaforth and surrounding communities are advised that playground decommissioning works are planned for mid-August.

Council’s parks team will be removing the existing ageing play equipment and fabric shade structures in both Seaforth Camping Reserve and Jim Adams Memorial Park as well as the fencing at Jim Adams Memorial Park.

The removal of this equipment will coincide with the opening of the highly anticipated $8.6 million Seaforth Esplanade redevelopment project which includes a new junior and senior playground as well as an exciting water play area.

Jim Adams Memorial Park will remain an open space to continue to honour the contribution made by Cr Jim Adams to the Seaforth community.

The removal of the playground at the Seaforth Camping Reserve will enable additional camping sites to address some of the sites that were lost due to the new Coastal Walk.

‍

Artist impression

With hearts brimming with anticipation, proud parents throughout the Mackay region are rejoicing as they welcome an influx of newborns into their lives. At Mater Mothers’ Private Mackay, the month of July witnessed the advent of 33 newborns, each one an embodiment of pure potential and promise.

As the nursery echoes with the symphony of tender gurgles and tiny yawns, it is evident that these newcomers have seamlessly "pacified" their way into the hearts of all fortunate enough to witness their debut.

Mackay Private Hospital Acting General Manager Chris Junge said the new arrivals were given a big welcome into the world by their parents who were eager to meet them.  

Andergrove mum Jessica Corsaro welcomed her second baby Julius on 25 July and said he was a “beautiful addition to the family”.

“Julius has an 18-month-old big sister Audrey who absolutely adores him,” Mrs Corsaro, 37, said.

“He is very loved. Julius weighed 3.6kg when he was born and is the eighth grandchild on my side and 12th grandchild for my in-laws.”

Other babies born at Mater Mothers’ Private Mackay this year include little Alfie and Ellidy.

Mr Junge said data showed 451 babies were born at Mater Mothers’ Private Mackay last year.

The most popular names for babies born at Mater Mothers in 2022 were Charlotte for girls and Oliver for boys, he said.

Most popular girl names in 2022 for Mater Mothers’:

1. Charlotte

2. Olivia

3. Sophie

4. Isabella

5. Mia

6. Isla

7. Eleanor

8. Lily

9. Ella

10. Georgia

Most popular boy names in 2022 for Mater Mothers’:

1. Oliver

2. Henry

3. Theodore

4. Charlie

5. Thomas

6. Leo

7. Noah

8. Jack

9. Alexander

10. Harry

‍

Jessica Corsaro with little Julius. Photo supplied

Baby Ellidy was born on 1 May at Mater Mothers' Private Mackay. Photo supplied

Be Social Fest went off with a bang in June and the good vibrations are still being felt throughout the community.

The rapidly growing music festival brought Grinspoon, San Cisco, Mallrat and more to Mackay, providing an epic day of live music while raising funds for a good cause.

Festival organisers recently made a donation of $7,548 to Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) North Australia, thanking RMHC, McDonalds Mackay and staff members Samantha, Sarah and Niki for their support of the event.

Posting on social media, Be Social Fest wrote: “One of our core values is the commitment to giving back to the Mackay Community in various ways.

“As one of the largest non-touring music events in NQ, we have the opportunity to engage with the community on multiple levels, and we take great pride in being a part of its growth.”

The post went on to thank those who attended Be Social Fest as well as major sponsors LiSTNR, Mackay Regional Council, Queensland Tourism, Hawk Hire, Queensland Mental Health Commission, MECC, The Dispensary and City Fitness.

“We are deeply appreciative of everyone’s involvement and assistance in making this event and contribution a reality.

“Together, we are making a positive impact on our community, and we look forward to continuing our journey of giving back and growing an event that Mackay can call its own!”

‍

Be Social Fest recently made a donation to Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia. Photo supplied