It was a pleasant surprise to open Google last Thursday and discover that the Google artwork – The Google Doodle – had become Bowen’s Big Mango, in honour of its 21st birthday.

Manger of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernathy was overjoyed that Google Australia had chosen Bowen’s iconic tourist attraction.

“To have such as influential company choose Bowen’s Big Mango is awesome news,” Ms Abernathy said.

“We really appreciate the publicity this will create, ensuring even more people know about our famous big thing which leads to more awareness about Bowen and the greater Whitsunday region.”

The Big Mango is estimated to attract 80,000 people to Bowen, and it is believed that 1.5 million photos have been taken with the structure.

Google Australia’s Search Communications Manager, Camilla Ibrahim, said Google was excited to be ‘Bowen Down’ to the Big Mango with Thursday’s Doodle.

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Everyone in the community is invited to the inaugural Queensland Day Flavours of Bowen Festival, hosted by Bowen Gumlu Growers Association.

The event will showcase local history and the diverse foods grown and produced in the region.

It is a fun family event which includes face painting, a jumping castle, “The little red train” ride and other kid’s activities.

Queensland Day Flavours of Bowen Festival is part of the 2023 Queensland Government’s Queensland Day celebrations.

WHAT: Queensland Day Flavours of Bowen Festival

WHERE: Bowen Soundshell and Foreshore

WHEN: Saturday, June 3

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From Whitsunday Mayor to Federal Member, Andrew Willcox, has catapulted himself to Canberra and, over the past year, he has certainly made some waves in Parliament, spruiking the merits of our region, and demanding a fair share for his community.

By 6pm on election day, May 21, 2022, Willcox was clearly commanding a win, but it wasn’t until June 15 that he was officially declared as our new Federal Member For Dawson.

It was July 26 when he was officially sworn into his position, representing over 150,000 people in an electorate which runs from Townsville through to Mackay.

“I certainly hit the ground running,” said Willcox.

“I’ve always enjoyed helping people and this job’s enabled me to do that on a bigger scale.”

From helping people with immigration and citizenship issues to NDIS assistance and Centrelink, Willcox reminds his constituents to always reach out and ask for help if needed.

And while he loves spending as much time as possible in the region, one of his biggest passions is heading down to Canberra, where he spends between 18 and 20 weeks per year.

Adjusting to the freezing temperatures, however, has been a challenge to this passionate North Queenslander, and so has the big workload.

“The temperatures are not normal!” he jokes.

“It doesn’t even warm up during the day! – but I am getting used to it.”

While in Canberra, Willcox uses his time to raise awareness for our region and draw attention to local issues.

“I’m in the business of taking issues and requests to Canberra and delivering an outcome,” he said.

“We all think that everyone knows where the Whitsundays is, but they don’t.”

“We are the biggest cane growing region in Australia and Bowen has a half billion-dollar horticultural industry - in parliament it’s my job to educate people about the wants of rural and regional Australia.

“I’m not a shrinking violet, I am a man of conviction and I stand up for my people.”

When it comes to local matters, Willcox says that he puts the people and the broader issues above politics and, being in opposition, this has certainly come in handy when navigating the political sphere.

“All levels of government need to work together and be above politics,” he said.

“We need to make good decisions, look after the people and the politics will look after themselves - I’ll work with anyone to deliver better results for the people.”

Spending as much time as possible within the constituency, Willcox says that he is “hardly ever home”, preferring to spend time out in the community and listening to the people.

He says that now his children are adults he is lucky to have wife Raylene by his side when he travels, especially on the long trips to the ACT.

“Canberra is a busy place, but it can also be a lonely place, so it is always good to see a friendly face,” he said.

When asked about the year ahead, Willcox said he is excited to continue lobbying for our region and reminds the community he is available and ready to help with local needs.

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Willcox speaks in Canberra

Outside Parliament House

Willcox spends time with the local headspace team

A recent visit to the Agave Farm with Nationals Leader, David Littleproud

The region’s National Reconciliation Week commemorations began last weekend in Proserpine.

With the theme of ‘be a voice for generations’, Whitsunday Regional Council have held three workshops across the region, to promote the importance of listening, taking action, and speaking up, in order to create a brighter future.

National Reconciliation Week takes place every year between May 27 and June 3, encompassing two significant dates in Australian history – the 1967 referendum, which changed the Constitution to recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as part of the population of Australia, and the 1992 Mabo Decision, which acknowledged Traditional Owner’s right and connection to land.

At the first of three council-run workshops, held at Proserpine Library, Councillor Clay Bauman presented the welcome speech, with Auntie Sue West giving the welcome to country and Uncle Harold completing a smoking ceremony.

A Traditional Knowledge Workshop, hosted by Robert Congoo from Yooribaya Cultural Experiences, followed.

Mr Congoo shared knowledge about the rich culture, traditions, and history of the Giya and Ngaro people.

The second workshop was held in Bowen Library on Tuesday and was dedicated to Artifact Display, and the third was in Cannonvale Library on Thursday about Plant Identification and Storytelling.

Within each library, there is also a Sea of Hearts display, for families and children to decorate a heart and depict what reconciliation means to them.

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A smoking ceremony marked the first National Reconciliation Week commemoration

The Sea of Hearts display for members of the community to display what reconciliation means to them

Whale season has officially started, with Big Fury Whitsundays taking the first footage of the year; their video showing a whale breech to the delighted squeals of guests on board.

Operations Manager of Big Fury, Dianne Flood says the two humpback whales were floating around for about half an hour which excited all the guests on board.

“It’s always fantastic to see the migration every winter,” she said.

“It’s a spectacular experience for the tourists.

“In this case, most on board were European tourists and this ticked off a few bucket list items for them.”

“They were awestruck and so were my crew, who see the whales every year.

“They were big and beautiful and playful.”

Humpback whales migrate to the Whitsunday every winter, from June to about September, for the warmer water temperatures.

An estimated 20,000 whales make the migration and many more sightings are expected this season.

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A still from a video released by Big Fury, showing the active humpback whales in our region

The Whitsundays is one step closer to becoming one of only two Whale Heritage Sites in Australia thanks to a team of passionate community members who are currently applying for the accreditation with the World Cetacean Alliance.

Local environmental consultancy firm, Whitsunday Environmental with Little Fish Tourism Development Consulting are working through the documentation and are organising two events to increase awareness of Whales visiting our region.

From June to October, the Great Barrier Reef comes alive with whale migration, particularly the humpback whale, as they visit warmer waters.

To become a Whale Heritage Site, it means that the area celebrates, respects and conserves whales and their inhabits.

There are currently six accredited sites around the world, and only one other in Australia, in Hervey Bay, which was the first ever certified Whale Heritage Site, in October 2019.

In January, the Whitsunday passed the first stage of the accreditation process and is now up for candidacy.

To receive accreditation, our region must show understanding, growth in education, and conservation.

The project, dubbed The Whales of Whitsunday project, will undertake a Welcome Whales event, to pursue this accreditation.

This event, scheduled for June 16, will include Traditional Owners, facilitating a smoking ceremony welcome, dance, and sing, as well as a traditional art show, and interactive art for kids.

“This is a community driven project,” said Olivia Brodhurst, Director of Whitsunday Environmental.

“We have a lot of other cool events planned, in order for us to receive this accreditation.”

According to Ms Brodhurst, the accreditation process is big, with the World Cetacean Alliance strict in applying accreditation to locations.

“This event is part of that process, but it also lets the community know that the whales are here,” she explains.

“It’s important to the Traditional Owners as well.”

The event has been sponsored by Ark Energy and North Queensland Bulk Ports and has been supported by the Whitsunday Regional Council.

The Whales of Whitsunday Project will also be holding a pre-whale season information session for local water tourism and boat operators on regulations for operation around whales, and how to report to the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority on whale movement and activity.

This information night is being held on Wednesday June 7, 5.30pm to 7.30pm at the Lookout Lounge, Coral Sea Marina. Visit the Whitsunday Environmental facebook page for more information.

WHAT: Pre-Whale Season Information Session

WHERE: The Lookout Lounge, Coral Sea Marina

WHEN: Wednesday, June 7, 5.30pm to 7.30pm

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Welcome to the Whales

Marking the start of the Great Barrier Reef whale season, join us in welcoming the thousands of whales expected to journey to the area.

Traditional owners will host a ceremony to celebrate the whales, with a smoking ceremony and an ancient whale chant.

Children are encouraged to be painted in traditional markings and add their hand prints to a traditional painting of a mother and her calf humpback painting

Attendees to the ceremony are encouraged to wear blue.

There will also be talks on traditional owners’ connection to whales and to the region, before Master Reef Guides will show a film about local marine life, before a screening of The Snail and the Whale film at 6pm.

WHAT: Welcome Whales

WHERE: Airlie Beach Foreshore Fairytree Park

WHEN: Friday June 16, from 5pm

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Calling all young aspiring entertainers, reporters, and TV hosts – this is your opportunity to be become the next local weather forecaster.

In the lead up to the Whitsunday Disaster Coordination Centre Open Day, Whitsunday Regional Council are inviting children under 10 years old to get creative and make a submission to the kids’ weather report video competition.

The winner will be announced at the Open Day and will win a family pass for the Proserpine Entertainment Centre and a $50 gift card.

The winner will also professionally record their weather forecast and the video will be used across social media and in promotional material for the council.

Conditions of entry include:

- Children aged 10-years and under

- Create a video of your child presenting the weather, in the council media centre. The video should not be longer than one minute.

- Upload to yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au or email to info@whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au

- Make sure to include entry form along with the video.

Closing at 11.50pm on Thursday June 8, entrants should be quick to enter and not miss the chance to win!

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Whitsunday Disaster Coordination Centre hosts new child weather reporter competition. Photo Supplied

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When a young Lily Peacock proclaimed to her dad at aged nine that she “wanted to play footy”, she never dreamt that eight years on she would be selected for the Cowboys Representative team.

In a few short weeks since the announcement, Lily’s life has changed dramatically – she moved to Townsville and at just 17 is living independently with other players, getting paid to play the sport she loves.

A total of 28 girls from all around the country, and two from Fiji, have been signed to play for the North Queensland Toyota Cowboy’s inaugural National Women’s Rugby League Team.

“I was pretty rapt!” said Lily.

“It was pretty awesome to hear that it was official!”

This week was the first training session for the new team and their initiation test was to work as a team to abseil down from the roof of the Cowboy’s stadium.

“The aim was to get over our fears and learn to work as a team,” explains Lily.

“Some of the girls were a bit scared but I absolutely loved it!”

From the age of six it was dancing and not football that Lily loved.

But when she was eight years old something changed, and she began playing team sports such as Touch Football.

At school, lunchtimes were all about playing footy with the boys and by nine, this self-proclaimed tomboy announced to her dad that she wanted to play for a team.

Lily made her debut with the Proserpine Brahman’s Under 11 team and played for the side for three years.

In her early teenage years, however, she took some time away from the sport and went travelling around the country with her family.

When she arrived in Darwin, she started playing for a team again and immediately knew her passion had been renewed.

“This made me realise what I really wanted to do,” said Lily.

“Watching older girls play on the TV – I knew this was where I wanted to be going!”

When Lily and her family returned to her home base in Cannonvale, she began playing again and at just 15 years old she joined the Walkerston Wanderers Under 17 team.

Then, last year she was picked to play for the Mackay Cutters Under 19 team and on ANZAC Day she made her debut for the Women’s team.

“It was awesome playing for the Women’s team and being picked for the Cowboys was the cherry on top!” she said.

“I love how football brings everyone together – no matter your background or even whether you like footy! – it’s a great conversation starter and brings everyone together.”

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Lily Peacock and a team mate outside the Cowboys stadium. Photo supplied

The inaugural NRLW Cowboys squad abseiled down from the roof of the stadium earlier this week. Photo supplied

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Two local community complexes have won big at the 2023 Australian Institute of Architects’ North Queensland Regional Architecture Awards.

Proserpine Entertainment Centre (PEC) was awarded three accolades in the Regional Architecture Awards, coming away with the Walter and Oliver Tunbridge Award for Building of the Year, a commendation for Public Architecture, and was named the People’s Choice Award for North Queensland.

Designed by CA Architects and Cox Architecture, judges said the PEC is an “excellent example of architecture that offers community impact, well beyond the building alone”.

“Sitting comfortably in the urban streetscape, the building extends seamlessly from the sidewalk into a grand community space that elicits a sense of excitement.

“The building gives back to the Proserpine community some of what was taken from them during Cyclone Debbie.”

John Hoyes, architect with CA Architects said, the story of the project is one of community and collaboration.

“The design is characterised by its engagement with community and context, and its recognition it gratifying as it confirms what an outstanding outcome the Proserpine Entertainment Centre is for the people of Proserpine and the Whitsunday region.”

The second Whitsunday community hub nominated was the Shute Harbour Marine Terminal, which came away with a regional commendation in Public Architecture.

Designed by AECOM Australia, the terminal sets “a new standard for Airlie Beach tourism as a gateway to the Whitsundays”.

“The use of robust materials and detailing was particularly sensitive to the harsh marine environment and the innovative reuse of wharf timbers left destroyed by recent cyclones provides a sustainable screening solution that cools the interior, cuts glare, frames the view, and connects the terminal to its history and place,” the jury explained.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Julie Hall said it was exciting that two major Council assets had been recognised.

“The PEC was a key community project as it was the heart and soul of the town,” she said.

“To pick up gongs in three different categories shows what an amazing facility the PEC is for our region.”

“The Shute Harbour Marine Terminal restoration was a massive project which has reactivated the port.”

The buildings have now been shortlisted for the Australian Institute of Architects’ Queensland Architecture Award, which will be awarded June 22.

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Proserpine Entertainment Centre recognised for community atmosphere

Shute Harbour Marine Terminal awarded for its impact to local tourism. Photos supplied

Councillors have had a busy few months with budget discussions and we are united in delivering a balanced Budget that continues to deliver key services and projects that enhance the liveability of our region.

An example of these projects that we are currently undertaking or have completed from the previous budget are the completion of the Richmond Road culvert upgrade and the Scottville Road widening and reseal plus a new footpath and pedestrian bridge.

These projects will improve safety for our residents and improve connectivity by filling another gap in the road network.

The community consultation for the Mullers Lagoon Parkland Masterplan has finished and all the feedback is currently being collated and a summary done of all ideas which will be communicated back to all residents who gave input and left contact details.

It was exciting to also work collaboratively with Bowen State High School recently and give the whole school an update at assembly of Council activities and gain face-to-face feedback from the students on the Mullers lagoon and other community projects.

It is important we also include the youth of today to gain their opinions on future projects.

At the most recent Community Catch-up in Mt Coolon, one of the questions was about the Telstra upgrade on the Mt Coolon communication tower.

Telstra have advised that the upgrade will take place before the end of this financial year. I would like to thank the Mt Coolon residents who attended and raised some valid points and concerns.

The next community consultation is at the Collinsville Community Centre, on Wednesday 21st June 10am to 12pm.

Council is also working hard behind the scenes to deliver an outcome on the Ted Cunningham Bridge issue and have it reopened as soon as possible before the next wet season.

In the meantime, the lower-level bridge is operational, and Council will supply additional staff to ensure that access for traffic to the popular Bowen River Rodeo will not be an issue.

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The community are invited to experience a rare glimpse of our local Disaster Coordination Centre in a unique open day experience that shows the inner workings of the central command centre when a natural disaster strikes.

This open day will offer the public an insight into how disasters are managed in our region by offering tours of the centre and a series of 30-minute talks by the Disaster Management Coordinator and centre staff.

“The coordination centre will be open as if it were activated for a real event,” said Disaster Management Coordinator Sandra Black.

“The community will be able to visually see how the room is set-up, and checkout what roles the different Council staff have during an event.”

‘The Disaster Coordination Centre can be activated when an extreme weather event such as a flood, cyclone, bushfire or storm reaches a certain level.’

When the centre is activated Council staff also slip into action and step-up to oversee the successful operation of the centre alongside emergency services personnel.

“The centre is made up of three big meeting rooms which are made into smaller hubs and sub-cells for planning and intel,” said Sandra.

“There are also loggers and taskers who man the phones and then relay information to the Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG).”

During the open day, guests can enjoy a tour, listen to one of the talks and understand how disaster teams respond to a situation.

Children will enjoy activities and dress-ups and everyone receives brochures and pamphlets detailing how to prepare for a disaster.

Anyone who completes a Community Resilience Survey on the day goes in the draw to win a generator!

“This is the only opportunity to see the set-up first-hand and understand our functions” explains Sandra.

“The centre is never usually open to the public and we are excited to invite everyone along – we are also hoping representatives from the emergency service fields will be there.”

WHAT: Disaster Coordination Centre Open Day

WHERE: 83-85 Main Street, Proserpine

WHEN: Sunday, June 11 from 10am – 1pm

TICKETS: Free community event
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Where Is Your Nearest Shelter?

Bowen Cyclone Shelter

(Bowen State High School)

54-86 Richmond Road, Bowen

Proserpine Cyclone Shelter

(Proserpine State Primary School)

Sterry Street, Proserpine

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The Disaster Coordination Centre is ready for action. Photo supplied

In a significant development for healthcare in the region, the tender for the Mackay Base Hospital Expansion has been awarded to BESIX Watpac. The $250 million expansion project aims to provide an additional 128 beds, catering to the growing demand for healthcare services. This expansion is part of the State Government's ambitious Queensland Health and Hospitals Plan, which has seen substantial investments in new hospitals and increased bed capacity across the state.

Last week, Shannon Fentiman, the incoming Health Minister, visited Mackay Base Hospital to announce the appointment of BESIX Watpac as the lead contractor for the expansion project. The project will encompass paediatric, medical, and surgical wards, effectively equipping frontline hospital workers with the necessary facilities to meet the rising demand for healthcare in the region. Additionally, the expansion will ensure that Mackay residents have convenient access to a comprehensive range of health services closer to home.

Minister Shannon Fentiman expressed her gratitude to the dedicated healthcare professionals and highlighted the significance of the expansion.

"I'm honoured to visit our hardworking frontline health workers on the ground here in Mackay and thank them for all they do,” Minister Fentiman said.

“We are one step closer to delivering this important capital project as we welcome BESIX Watpac onboard as the lead contractor.”

Julianne Gilbert, Member for Mackay, hailed the announcement as a positive development for the community and the wider region.

"This is an exciting announcement for my community and the surrounding region,” Mrs Gilbert said.

“This is a great step forward not only for Mackay but also for the wider communities of Proserpine, Bowen, Collinsville, Dysart, Moranbah, Clermont, and Sarina.  

“We future-proofed the hospital, ensuring sufficient land was available to expand. Once again there will be views of the beautiful Pioneer River and Bluewater Trail for our patients and staff."

Dr. Charles Pain, Interim Chief Executive of Mackay Hospital and Health Service, emphasised the importance of meeting the growing demand for healthcare.

"These additional 128 beds will help us meet the rising demand for healthcare in the region and improve the flow of patients from the emergency department to the wards,” he said.

“The existing facility has served us well for decades, but as our community continues to grow, it's imperative that our hospital grows with it.

“The Women's Health Unit and the Child and Adolescent Unit are looking forward to moving into brand new wards, and this will ensure care is provided in a contemporary environment,” Dr Pain added.

“The location of birth suites on the same level as the surgical department will also allow for a smoother transition of care for some birthing women."

The Mackay Base Hospital Expansion project is expected to create 610 local construction jobs, providing an economic boost to the area. The project is scheduled for completion in the second half of 2026, marking a significant milestone in enhancing healthcare services and meeting the evolving needs of the Mackay community.

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KEY POINTS

• BESIX Watpac has been awarded the tender to deliver the Mackay Base Hospital Expansion.

• The $250 million expansion will deliver an additional 128 beds to support healthcare for the region.

• The project is scheduled for completion in the second half of 2026.

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Buster, a compassionate and caring individual, recently embarked on a heartwarming mission to make a difference in the lives of sick and injured children. Inspired by his own experiences at the Queensland Children's Hospital, the Children's Ward at the Mackay Base Hospital, and the Ronald McDonald Centre, Buster witnessed the struggles and challenges faced by young patients. Determined to bring some joy and comfort to their lives, Buster took it upon himself to raise funds for a special cause.

Through his dedicated fundraising efforts, Buster successfully gathered the necessary resources to purchase incredible gifts for the Children's Ward at the Mackay Base Hospital. These thoughtful presents, ranging from cuddly toys to books, were intended to put smiles on the faces of the young patients and provide them with moments of happiness during their hospital stay.

Buster's selfless act of kindness and his commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of others is truly commendable, earning his spot in this week’s Good Deed Feed.

The Mackay Hospital Foundation extended their heartfelt gratitude to Buster for his hard work, generosity, and unwavering dedication. His selflessness serves as an inspiration to all, reminding us that even small gestures of kindness can have a significant impact on the lives of those in need.

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Hi readers

Last week, from May 15-21, was National Volunteer Week, Australia’s largest annual celebration of volunteering. Mackay is full of not-for-profit organisations and selfless people who donate their time to keep them running and these people were acknowledged throughout the week, as they should be every day of the year.

On pages 16 and 17, you’ll find the stories of some of these organisations in our community. You’ll also find our weekly listing of volunteer positions currently available. If you have some spare time on your hands, I implore you to peruse these stories, find an organisation that aligns with your interests and get in touch about volunteering.

As a budding creative industries practitioner, my university years were filled with volunteering roles. My resume lists a variety of backstage and bar experiences at music festivals, internship tenures and freelance writing gigs to pump up that all-important portfolio. I currently volunteer at local community radio station 4CRM. While my show may only go for an hour, I probably dedicate about five hours a week to preparing the show and researching and sourcing songs. It’s my way of growing my experience and, even if it doesn’t lead to paid employment in radio, it’s really fun and I hope I always have the opportunity to contribute to community radio no matter where I am in life. Tune into my show ‘The Prekend’ on 4CRM 107.5FM on Thursdays from 8pm if you’re interested.

Whether it’s diversifying your skills and learning new things or meeting new people and finding a sense of community, there are innumerable benefits to volunteering, so get out there and give it a crack.

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When one digger made a promise to another in the trenches of World War I, they inspired a decade of inspirational assistance.

Legacy Australia has been supporting the families of veterans since 1923 and in commemoration of 100 years, the Legacy Centenary Torch Relay will reach Mackay on Wednesday, May 31 after beginning its journey in Pozières, France in April.

The torch will be carried on a 7.1km route through town by 23 local torch bearers, all with a personal connection to Legacy Australia, including Sarina resident Kevin Plumb.

Plumb served in Vietnam from April 1967 to February 1968 and, upon returning, got involved in the RSL Sarina Sub Branch before continuing his work in welfare for veterans and their dependents.

“They go hand in hand, Legacy and the military,” said Mr Plumb, who’s role involves assisting widows with their War Widow Pension along with general assistance.

“I’ve been doing it for the last 30 plus years; not only for Legacy, but I look after the veterans themselves.”

Mr Plumb said the work he does gives him great pride in himself, and he is honoured to be bearing the torch next week.

“I’m walking for not only the widows but also for any of the men and women who’ve lost their lives during conflict,” he said.

The relay will begin at Mackay Town Hall on Sydney Street at 10:00am and make its way around town, through the streets and past schools before finishing with a ceremony at Jubilee Park at 12:30pm.

“It’s going to be a momentous day; it’ll never happen again,” said Legacy Mackay President Les Palmer.

“For me, it’s all for the families and making sure they’re comfortable, they get care, they get visits; it’s all about looking after the families of returned servicemen.”

Established in 1947, Legacy Mackay currently supports 170 local families.

Those interested in volunteering can contact Mr Palmer on 0437 451 635 or visit the office at 94 Nebo Road on Mondays and Fridays.

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Mackay Legacy President Les Palmer is one of 23 torch bearers in next week’s Legacy Centenary Torch Relay. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

CEO of Legacy Australia Matthew Granger with another torch bearer welcoming the torch to Australia earlier in the month. Photo supplied

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