This week we were delighted to receive an email from one of our readers outlining his ‘Good Deed’ experience at a local shopping centre in Cannonvale.

We loved his letter so much, we decided to print it in full.
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My partner Sue and I are in our mid-seventies. We are regular shoppers at the Woolworths centre because we like the vibe. No disrespect to The Whitsunday Shopping Centre, they also have great shops and one can get a great coffee fix at both locations.

Today we were doing a bit of last minute shopping at Woolies and as you may expect it was packed. With all the items found we waited patiently at the quick check out.

Our turn came to be served, the efficient check-out-chick quickly totalled up our purchases, I presented my Woolies loyalty card and was about to tap my debit card when a hand, with another card hit the pad.

This rather confused me and Sue. I was stunned. Looking back at the queue, there was an attractive, smiling young lady with twinkling eyes. We did not know her.

I admit I did need a shave and my attire was at best basic but this kindness brought a tear to the eyes of this sometimes crusty old fellow.

What amazing kindness!

Several weeks ago Sue ordered coffee and the chap preceding her had prepaid for it. More generosity. No more mister crusty, somehow I will endeavour to pass on the kindness.

Yours faithfully,

Andrew R. McKay

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In a challenging trek that would test even the most healthy and active adult, a group of primary-school-aged children embarked on the Honeyeater Trail earlier this week, participating in the inaugural New Year Family Hike.

Organised by Tim Oberg and Michael McConnell from Next Stars Sports Academy, this free community event was open to families participating in their coaching sessions plus any interested members of the community.

“It’s a great challenge for the kids, parents and their siblings,” said Tim.

“Everyone is aware on the Honeyeater Trail, but many haven’t done it – it’s pretty challenging!”

The group left from Café One3 in Airlie Beach and trekked upwards, completing a round trip of 7.5 kilometres.

They left on Monday, January 2 at 7am and returned by around 10am the same day.

“Some of the kids struggled,” said Tim.

“But all the other kids were empathetic – they really supported each other – a lot of the girls were holding hands, and everyone motivated each other.

“That was exactly what we were hoping for, watching the kids helping each other was incredible and we were all really proud of them.”

Marvellous weather greeted the intrepid explorers and many passers-by stopped to wish the group a happy New Year.

“A lot of people on the walk commented on how good it was to see so many kids doing the walk together and away from the screens,” said Tim.

“It was a great thing to witness and a really positive way to start the year.”

The next event is planned for June this year and Tim said they are hoping to get even more families involved.

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We made it! The stunning view from the top of Honeyeater

Holding hands to support each other through a challenging trek

A moment to take it all in. Photo credit: Michael McConnell

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A Mackay couple and their three children were left trapped in their vehicle when it was involved in collision north of Proserpine just days after Christmas.

The family had been travelling south from Townsville when a Toyota Prado allegedly crossed into their lane, crashing into the family’s Holden Ute on Tuesday, December 27, just after 1pm.

Queensland Fire Service were able to extricate those trapped and the RACQ CQ Helicopter attended the scene, despatching injured patients to hospital.

A total of seven people were taken to Proserpine Hospital, but it is understood everyone involved have now been released.

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The incident involved to vehicles which collided at speed: Photo supplied by RACQ CQ Rescue

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A vehicle that was stolen in Gympie in December has been found in the Proserpine River and, in order to retrieve it, emergency service personnel had to dodge a three and a half metre resident crocodile on a nearby bank.

Despite the dangerous local wildlife and the muddy, steep shoreline, officers reported that the vehicle was removed from the water without incident.

The 2014 model Kia Cerato was stolen from the Gympie home on December 13 and discovered mostly submerged in tidal waters on December 29 where it had been dumped in the Proserpine River near Glen Isla Road.

The location is known as "The Landing" - a popular site amongst locals for fishing and known for its dense crocodile population.

With a strong focus on safety, the vehicle was removed from the waters with the assistance of officers from the Proserpine station, the Whitsunday Water Police, officers from the Police Dive Squad, personnel from the State Emergency Service (SES) and also Parks and Wildlife.

“Police are grateful for the assistance offered by all in the retrieval of the stolen vehicle from the water in these unique circumstances,” said a police spokesperson.

“Anyone who may have information about either the initial car theft from Gympie, or the dumping of the stolen car at this location is encouraged to contact police as soon as possible.”

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The stolen vehicle was dumped in croc infested waters

The 2014 model Kia Cerato was removed without incident. Photos supplied

Sir Elton John is rumoured to have visited the Whitsundays over the Christmas period, landing on Hamilton Island before transiting to Hayman Island with his husband David and their two sons, Zachary and Elijah.

The legendary musician is in the country ahead of his Farewell Yellow Brick Road: The Final Tour which will see him play in Newcastle, Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane in January before heading on to New Zealand in February.

His plane, a Gama Aviation Bombardier Global Express bizjet M-EDZE, was first sighted when it landed at Hamilton Island Airport on December 27 and images were posted on the Central Queensland Plane Spotting Blog.

“The sleek Global Express is the personal ride of British singer Sir Elton John who was spotted, along with his partner, kids and several others,” read the blog.

From here, the family and their entourage headed to Hayman Island where absolute secrecy is promised and no further information was available.

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The Gama Aviation Bombardier Global Express bizjet M-EDZE arrived at Hamilton Island Airport on December 27

Elton John and his family spent time at Hayman Island

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A 27-year-old man from Tannum Sands has been arrested and charged with several offences following an alleged marine incident inside the Port of Airlie Marina at about 7am on January 3.

It's alleged that police were advised of a stolen jet-ski being operated dangerously in the Port of Airlie.

It's further alleged that upon police arrival officers located and arrested the operator of the jet-ski, which was also then returned to the owner.

The 27-year-old man has been charged with trespass, unlawful use of a vessel,

unlicensed operation of a vessel, disobey marine speed limit and disobey safety equipment obligations.

The matters will be heard via video link this morning at Rockhampton Magistrates Court.

Police are grateful for the assistance received from members of the public with the reporting of this incident.

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Record numbers of tourists visiting the Whitsundays last year have set the region on an exciting trajectory for 2023 following the release of a report that stated domestic visitor numbers went up by 179 per cent compared to 2019 data.

The National Visitor Survey (NVS) revealed a record 923,000 domestic visitors came to the region, spending $1.5billion dollars in The Whitsundays.

It was also noted that visitors were staying longer and spending more with a total of 4.9 million nights in the year to 30 September 2022, an increase of 73% based on 2019 figures.

This comes as good news for a region where one in three jobs are reliant on tourism and bodes well for a strong and stable 2023.

Tourism Whitsundays Chief Executive Officer, Rick Hamilton said these results cement what everyone in The Whitsundays already knows, The Whitsundays is the best place to holiday.

“Select domestic markets have always known about the attraction of The Whitsundays, but the growth we are seeing in domestic visitation shows that more of Australia is now familiar and confident about this unique holiday experience,” he said.

“These results once again underline the significant contribution tourism makes here. We have world-class operators, accommodation options and businesses all working   to deliver outstanding holidays to vacationers in The Whitsundays, whatever their budget.

While there has been a record increase in interstate travellers, 274,000 up 18.9 per cent on 2019, it is Queenslanders who are making up 69 per cent of visitors.

“It is encouraging to see more of Australia discovering and experiencing The Whitsundays because we can compete with anywhere in the world for the range of experiences, unique attractions and location,” Mr Hamilton said.

“However, Queenslanders are taking advantage of The Whitsundays, which is right on their doorstep.”

Tourism Whitsundays Chair, Julie Telford understands why The Whitsundays is getting record visitation from inter and intra state travellers.

“Queensland is such a diverse State and travelling within its border can take you through the rainforest, outback, surf beaches and the wonderful Whitsundays by car, bus, train, plane and boat. It’s no wonder we’ve seen so many Queenslanders rediscover their love of The Whitsundays,” she said.

“Visitors are staying an average of 5.2 nights this year, increasing almost a day compared to results from March 2022 because there’s so much to do and enjoy in The Whitsundays that every minute of that time can be booked onto a different experience.”

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With Andrew Willcox, Federal Member For Dawson

Happy New Year!  I hope everyone has had a fantastic time over the festive season and if you are lucky enough to still be on holidays, please stay safe and enjoy your well-earned break.

2022 was a big year.

The start of the year saw our borders reopen and families reuniting at long last. It was the year that we farewelled our beloved Queen Elizabeth II and welcomed our new King Charles III to the throne. In 2022 our mighty NQ Cowboys came so close to the premiership. Fingers crossed the silverware falls into the right hands in 2023.  

Of course, it was also the year our nation’s political leadership changed. I respect peoples’ choice to elect a Labor Government under Albanese, however I have significant concerns about the direction that Labor is leading us in.

The Dawson region punches well above its weight in terms of tourism, agriculture and mining. Our resources sector, made up of our hardworking men and women, contributes in droves to the wealth and prosperity of our nation keeping our lights on and our businesses running.

In the last days of 2022, Federal Labor introduced price caps to our coal and gas supply. History has shown that this jeopardises supply, jobs and businesses, and discourages investment. It’s not good news. This issue is squarely in my sights, and I will continue to hold the Government to account on their promise of cheaper (and reliable) energy for all Australians.

In 2022, the previous Liberal National Government committed to key projects being delivered locally. We set aside $420,000 for the Whitsunday Volunteer Marine Rescue who do magnificent work keeping us safe on the water. We budgeted and committed $50,000 for Proserpine State School P&C and another $80 million for the construction of the Bowen pipeline.

It was disappointing when Labor revealed they were canning the funding committed to these projects. I will continue to keep up the pressure, to see our region get the investment it deserves.

Speaking of pressure, when Labor neglected the north through the abolishment of the Northern Australia Committee, I made a racquet about it alongside my Coalition colleagues. Within a week, it was reinstated. I am proud to be on this committee, which works to ensure the north gets a fairer share of government spending.

More wins for our region include the Coalition’s Ag Visa agreement with Vietnam being honoured and Townsville AEIOU, education centre for children with Autism, received $2 million funding as previously committed by the Coalition. This shows even in opposition we can achieve for our regions.

I’m 100 per cent committed to growing a stronger future for Dawson. There is a lot of hard work ahead.

As your Federal Member for Dawson, I want to hear from you about your ideas and insights for our region. I’m here to take your voice to Canberra and fight for our great region.  

Andrew Willcox’s office is at Level 2/45 Victoria Street, Mackay. His office is contactable on 4944 0662 or via email at andrew.willcox.mp@aph.gov.au

Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox (centre) with Volunteer Marine Rescue Whitsundays team Mal Priday (left) and Roger Wadson (right). Photo supplied.

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To Fight Port Of Airlie Development In Court

Local action group, Save Our Foreshore (SOF), are calling out for public support following news that legal action to fight the Council approved 47.7 metre high-rise development could amount to $150,000.

So far, all legal costs have been covered by donations but funds are running low and the legal costs are getting higher.

“To date we have paid for preliminary legal advice and all ongoing legal costs, including appearances of our solicitors and barrister to three preliminary hearings in Brisbane,” said spokesperson for SOF, Faye Chapman.

“We need to build our fighting fund now because prior to the actual seven-day court hearing our lawyers will require us to deposit funds in their Trust fund to cover the estimated costs of $150,000.”

SOF has engaged a planning expert, a visual impact expert and has also submitted laypersons statements in regards to visual impact, storm surge and community expectations.

The main point of contention is that the approved development at Port of Airlie exceeds the recommended building height level for the site and a high-rise hotel on this land will become an eye sore.

SOF also believe that the development goes against the small-town-feel upon which Airlie Beach has built its tourism brand.

An approved town plan from ten years ago detailed a three to four storey resort for the site with a leisurely lagoon and tropical surrounds.

Many feel that the new development completely contradicts this town plan and SOF managed to get over 2000 signatures to support their fight.

They are now looking for additional financial support from the community and can be reached through their Facebook page.

The site of the approved 47.7 metre high-rise hotel. Image supplied

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Happy 2023!

A town of contrasts at the moment with many enjoying a well-earned rest whilst others are enjoying the buzzing of a fully booked town and people everywhere as visitors and locals alike enjoy the festive season in paradise.

With 2022 behind us, it is time to consolidate on what has been another extraordinary year for local businesses - generally in a positive sense. Yet again, the business community of the Whitsundays demonstrated strength, resilience, adaptability and innovation across all industries and the foundation has been laid for solid growth well into the future.

The Chamber will continue to provide independent advocacy, practical support and educational networking opportunity to further strengthen businesses in the region.

A huge shout out and thanks to the five businesses that generously supported the NYE fireworks in partnership with Council to set the sky alight in Airlie Beach. atHotel Group, Airlie Beach Hotel, Cruise Whitsunday, LiveLife Pharmacies and PRD each contributed $1000 to the event enjoyed by thousands.

Congratulates Clay Bauman on his successful campaign to be the councillor for Division 2 in a close finish. Our thanks also to the other candidates for putting their hands up to have an impact in the region.

Let’s not forget the Fair Work Legislation Amendment which will result in Industrial Relations changes in the following areas – Gender Pay Equality, Flexible Work Arrangements, Pay Secrecy, Fixed Term Contracts, Enterprise Agreements, Anti-Discrimination, Sexual Harassment, and the introduction of paid Family and Domestic Violence Leave.

In response to these changes, the Chamber’s first networking event in February will focus on these changes with a HR expert guiding us through new HR best practise. See you all then!

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

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Business owners and those planning to purchase or start their own business are invited to a free business workshop at Coral Sea Marina later this month.

Attendees can expect to learn key skills such as how to track and measure numbers in order to make smarter decisions, turn your marketing into an investment instead of an expense and leverage your time to maximise efficiency and results.

Additional supportive information includes learning how to attract, train and retain exceptional employees that deliver outstanding customer service.

The workshop is facilitated by Entrepreneurial Business School (EBS), a Sunshine Coast based coaching firm which has helped thousands of business owners scale their practices so that they can eventually step out and let the enterprise run itself.

The event will be hosted by senior coach Wade Grundon who has operated his own business for many years and is an outstanding speaker.

During the workshop attendees will learn practical tools and will be given the skills to implement much of what they learn the following day.

Everything you need will be provided on the evening, including pen and paper.

“Simply turn up and be ready to listen,” said EBS marketing manager Tanya Proctor.

“We have hundreds of success stories, and it is not often you get a speaker of this calibre come to the Whitsundays.”

After the event, participants are invited to sign-up to the broader program which includes a community of thousands of business owners who attend a variety of events hosted by EBS Director and Master Business Coach, Bruce Campbell.

These include a six-monthly forum and large-scale functions which feature motivating speakers, inspiring case studies and avenues to set goals through further workshops.

WHAT: Free Business Growth Workshop

WHEN: Tuesday, January 17 from 5.30pm to 7pm

WHERE: Coral Sea Marina, Lookout Lounge

PRICE: Free

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Senior Business Coach, Wade Grundon, delivers the free workshop

You can meet Wade at Coral Sea Marina later this month

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Luxury Waterfront Residences Sell For $3.45 Million

Investors are reassured by a commitment to fix costs on luxury waterfront residences at the new Shute Harbour Marina Resort, a move that developers say will alleviate concerns about growing uncertainty with building prices.

The $350 million development project will include a large marina village with restaurants, retail outlets and a commercial heart.

In addition, there will be 58 luxury waterfront residences which will be located along the marina, each with their own private marina berth of between 25 and 35 metres.

“A key concern for buyers is the rapid increases and uncertainty surrounding building costs,” said Rob Taylor, of Taylors Property Specialists.

“The developers of Shute Harbour Marina are assuming this risk and giving price certainty to the buyer. Strictly limited numbers of guarantees are being made available.”

There are now two distinctive designs which have now been released at the fixed price of $3.45 million providing a collection of these luxury waterfront home-and-berth packages for this exclusive residential enclave.

“These packages offer incredible value to secure a waterfront home at Shute Harbour Marina Resort in one of the most exciting developments in north Queensland in years,” said Mr Taylor.

“Not only are the Whitsundays at your doorstep, but these homes will be just a short stroll from Pier 61, a world-class mixed use marine village that will be the commercial and retail heart of Shute Harbour Marina Resort.”

The Tropicana and The Whitsundays are the two choices available at the fixed price.

The Tropicana’s two-storey main residence delivers an expansive 295sqm of enclosed living areas.

The upper-level master bedroom features a private owner’s study/retreat and deck, while the spacious second and third bedrooms are located in a private pavilion with undercover walkways connecting the pavilions.

The residence comes complete with a cooling plunge pool and the 25-metre berth right at its doorstep.

The Whitsundays delivers a modern three-bedroom design that captures incredible views of the marina.

This two-storey design is equally as spacious, with 295sqm of enclosed living areas and 2.7-metre-high ceilings helping to maximise the open areas on the lower level which are ideal for entertaining and relaxed tropical living.

A generous master suite is located on the upper level and the residence is completed with an 8 x 2.5-metre swimming pool overlooking a 25-metre marina berth.  

Luxury living at a fixed price – new $3.45 million waterfront residences at Shute Harbour Marina Resort. Photos supplied

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Kind volunteers spent their Christmas Day hosting a free community lunch at Whitsunday PCYC and over 60 people, many of them elderly, came along to share in friendship and food.

Paula Hovey and Phil Ruck cooked up an incredible festive spread with all of the contents donated by local businesses – Whitsunday Foodservices, atHotel Group, Fish D’Vine, Proserpine IGA, Whisper Gin Bar and Airlie Beach Bowls Club.

The event was organised by author of PJ’s Food Diary, Paula Hovey, Councillor Jan Clifford and Ingrid Ruck from Proserpine Community Centre.

There were also a host of volunteers who spent the day putting smiles on faces and gifts in hands.

One volunteer, Helen Pike, even found an older gentleman at the bus-stop on his way home and offered him a lift to the event where he was filled up and made to feel special.

“It makes us really happy to be able to do it and know that people aren’t by themselves on Christmas Day,” said Paula.

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Two of the organisers – Councillor Jan Clifford and Paula Hovey

Everyone enjoyed a colourful Christmas spread at Whitsunday PCYC. Photos supplied

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Over 70 emergency services personnel, families and members of the public attended a special service in Bowen which was held to remember the fallen officers who passed away in the Wieambilla shooting just before Christmas.

Matthew Arnold, 26, and Rachel McCrow, 29 were both ambushed and murdered in a pre-planned attack by three assailants from the same family.

Four officers attended the scene to conduct a welfare check and two managed to escape - Constable Keely Brough, 28, who raised the alarm as she was hunted by the attackers and Constable Randall Kirk, also 28, who was shot in the leg.

The incident sent shockwaves across the country when it occurred on December 12 last year and dozens of ceremonies to honour the fallen and their families were held in multiple locations on December 21.

The Bowen service was officiated by the Whitsunday Police Chaplain who led a small local service prior to the live stream.

Retired Police Sergeant David Blundell read the Police Ode and Councillors Mike Brunker and Michelle Wright attended to pay their respects on behalf of Whitsunday Regional Council.

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Over 70 people attended a special service in Bowen which honoured the fallen police officers

Police Officers Matthew Arnold and Rachel McCrow died in December. Photo credit: Queensland Police Union

Wreaths were laid outside the Bowen Police Station in their honour

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We spend all our working week with the same group of people, fulfilling the same set of duties, something’s bound to start getting on your nerves. Why do our co-worker’s tick us off? Why do some people’s communication drive us crazy?

Learning how to handle different personalities is the first step to creating the workplace where we all want to be.

Invest in three hours a month to step out of work and start working on how to do things better.

You will quickly create and enjoy:

·         Staff who are more motivated – which means they’re more likely to go above and beyond for your business

·         Increased productivity and efficiency. A trained team wastes fewer resources, money and time, and they’ll produce a higher quality of work

·         A trained workplace is a safe one. If you’ve trained your staff, you’ll reduce the number of accidents and incidents, which can be insanely costly

·         A consistently awesome customer experience – increased loyalty and great reviews

As you embark on 2023 why not invest in your people and see how Shiift can create positive, sustainable change with minimal effort.

It’s easier than you think.

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