Flora was the daughter of Danish migrant, James Christian Nielson, who settled in Proserpine in 1896 after working and travelling far and wide in Australia for seventeen years. He took up Springsure Farm, seventy-nine acres of light forest land in Glen Isla, becoming one of the most successful farmers in the district growing sugar cane and tobacco. (In 1921, James sold the farm to H M Clarke).

Flora was one of seven children – three sons and four daughters. When she was about five or six years old, a tragic accident occurred. Her brothers were cutting off bits of fencing wire with a tomahawk, putting the wire on a log as they hit it. Flora was holding one end as the chop was made and a bit of wire flew up into the little girl’s eye. There were no doctors in town at this time so they quickly got a horse into a springcart and set off for Bowen – a trip that would take many valuable hours. Taking such a long time to reach Bowen, an infection had already set in to the damaged eye and then spread to the other eye. Doctors tried to save the sight but it was too late.

To provide his daughter with an opportunity to acquire an education despite her disability, James enrolled her at the blind school in Brisbane.  Flora made the journey to Brisbane by boat and it was there that she learnt braille.

In 1913, Flora was part of a band, unique in North Queensland, which was comprised mostly of members of the Nielson family. Charlie was the original conductor, Jim the E flat base; Edith the euphonium; Percy the tenor horn; Violet the second cornet – and Flora the first cornet. Flora memorised all her music from braille. Other band members were Eileen and Mick McCormack and Wally Greenwood. Percy, one of the sons, was tragically drowned during floods in 1921.

Flora’s musical talent was quite amazing. One old timer of the past recalled the silent movie era and how Flora would play music for the films. Her brother would sit beside her and explain what was on the screen and Flora would play suitable background music. What a talent.

In a letter to the “Proserpine Guardian” in February 1973, Mrs Olive Clarke (nee McCormack) wrote of this amazing blind lady who accomplished what even many sighted people would struggle to manage – “Flora was a wonderful person. She did beautiful fancywork; darned socks and made her own frocks. My brother, Joe, and I would often go across to our neighbours, the Nielsons. She really could make that piano talk.”

While it is not certain when Flora died, it was believed to have been in the early 1980s and she was most likely in her seventies.

Thanks to the foresight of her father, James, who was determined that Flora would achieve an education despite her blindness and who arranged for her to make what was, in the very early twentieth century, a long and arduous journey to Brisbane, Flora was able to live a full and productive life upon her return home. Her musical talent brought great joy to her community.

A remarkable lady indeed.

(Postscript: Flora’s surname has often been incorrectly spelt as “Nielsen” even in the local paper and also on Council’s cemetery register, however, the family headstone records the surname of her father, Charles, and brother, Percy, as “Nielson”. This Nielson is not to be confused with the Nielsen family of pioneers Peter and Christian who migrated from Copenhagen, Denmark.)

Story Proserpine Historical Museum. Photo sourced from “Don’t spare the horses” by Beris Broderick.

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Caption: Flora Nielson seated third from left and holding her cornet

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Being able to follow your passion every day and get paid for it is the dream of many, but for local videographer Will Finley, it is now within arm’s reach.

For the past three years, he has carved out a reputation in the industry and is now working full-time as an independent freelance videographer here in the Whitsundays.

Will first started making videos with a humble Go-Pro, using every spare moment of his year in America, where he worked as a barman in Las Vegas, to take footage and practice filming techniques.

“My videos back then were pretty amateur,” remembers Will.

“But when I returned to Sydney and got stuck in lockdown during Covid, I spent hours learning about the craft.”

Endless YouTube videos, online tutorials and courses over a period of months taught Will how to make a range of videos from real estate to travel, commercial and more.

In 2020 Will moved to Airlie Beach with his American girlfriend who was seeking to extend her visa by completing regional work in the area.

Falling in love with the Whitsundays, Will continued with his passion for filming.

“It’s a beautiful spot to film and create videos,” he said.

“And I have since been lucky enough to be involved with many local projects.”

At the end of 2021, Will became a full-time videographer and has not looked back.

“I love the story, the way that a video can tell a story,” he explained.

“Whether it is selling a property or sharing a personal story about what someone has been through – I find every project meaningful in its own way.”

Armed with multiple cameras and drones, which he loves to use both recreationally and commercially, Will can create a range of films.

At the moment he is filming a one-minute clip for an online service called Adopt A Backpacker which involves gathering footage from a range of travellers using the platform.

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Caption: Local videographer Will Finley. Photo supplied

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Dress in Pink and get ready for a day of fun, frivolity, and fundraising at the annual Bowen Pink Stumps Day, which is due to be held on Saturday, February 18 at the Bowen Sporting Complex.

The event began in 2005 when famous cricketer Glenn McGrath and his wife Jane started the McGrath Foundation to raise money for people fighting breast cancer.

In 2008, Jane sadly lost her battle with breast cancer at just 42 years old and since then, Pink Stumps Day has become an annual event held in her memory.

Proceeds are used to fund McGrath Breast Care Nurses which are dedicated specialists that help individuals and their families through diagnosis, treatment and life afterwards.

Since 2005 proceeds raised through the McGrath Foundation have funded 193 Breast Care Nurses and the charity organisation has a goal of reaching 250 nurses by 2025.

Events have been taking place right across Australia for the past 14 years and Bowen Cricket Inc has been hosting this lively ladies’ fundraising lunch for several years.

In 2022, over 300 women attended the Bowen Pink Stumps Day and $10,000 was raised for the McGrath Foundation with a further $3,000 gifted to the local Bowen Cancer and Ostomy Support Group.

This year, organisers are expecting another successful event.

“It’s a ladies’ day where everyone can enjoy each other’s company and raise money for an important charity,” said Cricket Club President and Event Organisers Seth McIntosh.

“There will be live entertainment and guest speakers so it should be another event to remember!”

Guest speakers at this year’s event include Tash Leaver from the Bowen Cancer and Ostomy Support Group, Sonographer Sue Murray who will talk about the impacts of a breast cancer diagnosis, Gemma Duncan who will talk about her breast cancer journey and a breast cancer nurse from Mackay Hospital.

Everyone is asked to dress in pink and invite their friends for a laughter-filled afternoon which will not only help support women living with breast cancer but also provide education and awareness for everyone to take onboard.

Tickets are on sale for $50 per head or $400 for a table of 10.

This includes delicious share platters of food and there will be four licenced bars on-site for guests to purchase drinks.

These include the Ballistic Beer Van and a cocktail bar.

While the women drink and dine, the men will enjoy a game of cricket nearby.

There will be two teams vying for the Watts Ducky Lee Shield on the day, this special cup is dedicated to two local men who lost their battles with cancer.

WHAT: Pink Stumps Day

WHEN: Saturday, February 18 - opens at 11.30am

WHERE: Bowen Sporting Complex

TICKETS: $50 per person or $400 for a table of 10

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1: Last year’s event attracted over 300 women

2: Get your friends together for an afternoon of fun and fundraising

3: The men will get into the theme, wearing pink for a special game. Photos supplied

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This Valentine’s Day show your partner how much you love them with a carefully curated hamper full of hand-picked goodies that show your thoughtfulness and consideration.

By working with Whitsunday Gift Hampers, you can not only create a unique and charming gift but you can also be assured that, where possible, the items are sourced from local suppliers.

From sensual bath salts to scented candles, their favourite cocktail or a dreamy blend of Whitsunday tea, satin pyjamas, Valentine themed biscuits or a soft teddy bear - simply call Jo McGregor at Whitsunday Gift Hampers and she can help guide you in the right direction.

“We always try and personalise it to each individual,” said Jo.

“The whole experience of opening the hamper is really special and I always make it with love so that when they open it, they feel that little bit of luxury.”

Whitsunday Gift Hampers deliver for free anywhere in the Proserpine and greater Airlie Beach Area and, your hamper can usually be delivered the same day.

Make your love feel special this Valentine’s Day with a personalised Whitsunday Gift Hamper or contact Jo anytime for any other special occasion and she will be happy to help.

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Caption: Owner of Whitsunday Gift Hampers, Jo McGregor, personally makes each hamper with love. Photo: Rachael Smith

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A candle can transform any ambience, create a sensual mood, and bring joy to any room.

The soft glow of a slow-burning wick, the sweet smell of a tangy fragrance – within seconds of lighting a Sweetie Soy Candle you can close your eyes and feel the magic wash over you – the stresses of the day fade away and a new peace and tranquillity alight.

There is no-one that understands the relaxing qualities of a scented candle more than Josie Middleton, owner of Sweetie Soy Candles in Airlie Beach.

For the last eight years, she has been making deliciously scented candles and almost two years ago began selling them to an ever-growing fan base of local customers.

“It’s simple really, I love sweet scents and candles bring me joy,” she said.

“Scent makes me happy so if I have a nice scent then I am happy and relaxed – I think a lot of other people are the same.”

Josie’s passion for candles was sparked when she was gifted a Black Raspberry candle by a friend.

Once the candle had burnt its last flame, she was desperate to get another but didn’t want to spend a fortune, so she decided to make her own.

Using soy wax and speciality fragrances, Josie began making them from home for a great price, the savings which she now gladly passes onto her array of customers.

She chooses to use soy wax for each candle because it is 100 per cent natural.

“It’s completely natural and it’s refined from a soya bean, so it is plant-derived, it’s vegan-friendly, biodegradable and sustainable for the environment and that’s why I love it,” she said.

Customers can choose from a range of sweet fragrances, from floral to zesty, including her favourites Black Raspberry, Vanilla Caramel, Movie Time (chocolate, caramel and popcorn) and Blueberry Cobbler.

Josie can deliver for free anywhere in the Greater Airlie Beach Area within 48 hours’ notice and to Proserpine once a week.

All her products and her fragrances are also available on her website and from Whitsunday Creatives in Proserpine and Lush at the Whitsunday Shopping Centre.

Give your Valentine the sweetest gift of all with a hand-made candle that doesn’t just smell good enough to eat – it’ll make you hungry!

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Caption: Josie Middleton’s lovingly hand-made Sweetie Soy Candles. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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One of the Whitsundays’ newest community organisations celebrated its first birthday last week, inviting in locals for a celebration which also acted as the official opening of its services to the wider region.

Stella Life Care held the anniversary at its premises on Herbert Street, Bowen, commemorating the occasion as well as the hard work of its almost 20 staff and volunteers whilst keeping an eye to its future.

The company first launched as a disability and aged care support service with the earnest goal of helping the community overall – a challenge those it helps would agree it has certainly risen to.

Basing itself in Bowen, Stella Life Care formed on February 1, 2022, and quickly imbedded itself as one of the towns most valued altruistic organisations.

CEO of Stella Life Care Faileen James said she and her husband Bruce initially arrived in the Whitsundays on holiday when she saw the “genuine need” of the community for a service like Stella Life.

“We did not want to just create an area where only people who are disadvantaged or have a disability or are aged could gather; we wanted to create a space where all the community felt they could be welcome,” Mrs James said.

“As part of that, those people who are disadvantaged, elderly, or disabled can receive the services which they need. Everybody here today makes up Stella Life Care. We could not do what we do without the support of everybody in this room.

“You have all been a part of our journey.”

Mrs James said over their first year of operation that many of their clients come to Stella at their wits end, ready to give up in applying for benefits they are “actually entitled to” but the “bureaucracy is just too much for them.”

The ceremony was attended by dignitaries from several of Bowen’s community groups alongside clients and Whitsunday Mayor Julie Hall, who said it was “an absolute honour to be asked along to launch Stella Life officially and I wish them a happy, happy birthday.”

“They have already been a shining star in our community,” Mayor Hall said.

“It is very exciting that Stella is celebrating its first year of providing a broad range of services to create positive change in the Whitsundays.”

Stella Life Care’s first ever client, Kay Smith, said without the organisations help, she would never be able to live independently.

“I have had eight strokes, a major heart operation, diabetes, and Stella Life has given me more independence than I could have believed I could have,” Ms Smith said.

“My family isn’t here [in Bowen], so Stella Life are my family.”

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With Sonny Ivanovic from F45 Airlie Beach

In the six F45 studios across Queensland that I have started, this has always been my mission brief: introducing exercise to people’s lives because it can literally save them their life.

I’m Sonny Ivanovic, a qualified personal trainer and the owner of F45 Airlie Beach. In this column, Catch Up With Sonny, I will write about all things fitness every month, sharing what there is to love about the world of physical activity, its benefits, and why it is so important.

Now that the housekeeping is done, here is what I wanted to talk about this week:

Choice can be paralysing.

When a whole gym is in front of you – the rowing machines, the dumbbells, the ellipticals, the various class types – this can be enormously confronting.

In the industry, we are constantly reminding ourselves that stepping into any fitness facility for many, is a huge barrier for most people. It`s something that every single day, stops people from achieving their goal of being fitter and healthier. Because what do we mean when we want to feel fit? We want to better ourselves, and in turn, better our quality of life, and generally even those closest to us.

The reality is that barrier to entry can comprise of hundreds of reasons not to do something – which in turn can then exist and impact in every facet of our lives.

At my F45 studio, we help people tear down that wall. In some cases, people who have been non-exercisers their whole lives come to us and are not turned away by reasons not to do this, but reasons to do it. For us, it is providing that option for people who want to improve their health – both mental and physical.

I know what we do in this industry is special. We save lives by building confidence, and creating communities for people - plus, where else can you meet 30+ like-minded people all cheering you on?

Sonny Ivanovic

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Australian Idol Launches Mackay Singers Into The Spotlight

Two Mackay singers are manifesting their boyhood dreams, progressing to the next round of the country’s most iconic star-making television series, Australian Idol, as it returns to television screens after 13 years away.

Moranbah coal miner Damien Agius and ex-Mackay Cutters rugby player Noah Cookson have already impressed the judges in the globally successful show, and now they’re shooting to go all the way. They’ve showcased their talent as emerging artists to Australian superstar Amy Shark but can they become the next Australian Idols?

“It’s Unreal To Be Representing The Region”

The little boy from the Pioneer Valley - who sat in front of the telly in 2001 begging his mum to let him vote for “Nollsy” on her Nokia - would be proud of his future self-achieving what has been a lifelong dream.

Damien Agius, a Moranbah coal miner who grew up singing in his school-choir before graduating to country music performances on the loud stages of places like Eton Pub, is one of two Mackay musos representing the Sugar City on Australian Idol 2023 – something that has been on his mind for over 20 years.

Alongside him representing the region is a youngster who traded in the footy and picked up a guitar: Noah Cookson – a falsetto-voiced 19-year-old from a family of musicians.

Both singers have progressed from the auditions of the show to the next round.

“It was my dream to go on Australian Idol,” 28-year-old Damien Agius said.

His audition aired last Sunday on Channel 7, and Australian audiences were treated to a special showing of Agius performing Garth Brooks’ ‘If Tomorrow Never Comes’ in front of superstar Amy Shark.

“It was the busiest night at Eton Pub I’ve ever seen and then Amy Shark walked in and she said, ‘you’re going to audition’ – there’s a reason I looked so surprised,” Agius said.

“When it was over, I was emotional to have made it through. I was speechless; normally you can’t shut me up. I couldn’t believe it. For me, the dream is to make this my full time living and win Idol. This is something I’ve been working towards for 20 years – I’m ready to leave my job and be able to play to people at my own concerts, sell out places.

“I want to take on the world.”

For his fellow Mackay musician Noah Cookson, taking on the world is within his sights after dropping rugby league to pursue singing fully, following in the footsteps of his wedding singer parents.

“I wanted to focus on music because it is something that makes me feel at my best,” Cookson said.

“There was no doubt from them; they would support me if I had chosen footy or music. Their musical influence has been such a great thing to grow up in – they’re my heroes. And I think that’s made them proud to see me perform ‘Yellow’ [by Coldplay] in front of Amy Shark.

“That’s my dad and my song. We always perform it together and to have that be the song which got me through to Idol, I think that’s a sign. I am so grateful for them and for everyone in Mackay who has helped me on this journey.”

Both Agius and Cookson have made it through to the next round of Australian Idol, which will be showing on Channel 7 Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday night.

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Images:  - Damien Agius - Noah Cookson

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When a leaky radiator left Tom Coates stranded on the side of the road on his way into town, a distinctive pink ute pulled up to assist like a vehicle belonging to a superhero.

It was the Lady Locksmith ute, belonging to Leanne Kemp.

Ms Kemp, along with Jamie Head, pulled over and helped Mr Coates on his way after repairing the leaky radiator.

“Thank you so much to the kind Sir and M'am who helped us stop a leaky radiator on the way into town,” Mr Coates posted in Facebook group Mackay Noticeboard.

“More than a locksmith.”

“You are more than welcome,” commented Ms Kemp.

“Hate to see anyone stranded.

“I didn’t do much, only supplied tools and water, Jamie Head did all the handy work getting you going again.

“Hope you enjoy your travels.”

It appears as though this isn’t the first time Ms Kemp and Mr Head have been of assistance, with plenty of comments agreeing that they both have “hearts of gold”.

“Leanne has helped me out before as well... She is worth her weight in gold,” read one comment.

“I have dealt with her many times - Leeanne is lovely,” read another.

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If you’ve noticed a lot of red and pink popping up in stores, it’s because Valentine’s Day is just around the corner.

While love and affection should be year-round and spontaneous, I don’t think there’s any harm in celebrating a day just for love, whether it’s intimate love you share with a partner, the love you have for your family or taking a day to practice some self-love.

I think of it as a bonus opportunity to spend quality time together, make meaningful gestures, and create lasting memories.

On page 10 you can check out my list of swoon worthy sips, while our entertainment expert Sam has compiled a list of tantric tunes for your Valentine’s playlist.

Further in this edition on pages 20 – 23, you’ll find a plethora of information about Mackay Regional Council’s Sports Expo, being held at the MECC this Sunday.

Participating in sport helps children develop physically, socially, and emotionally. Physically, sports help improve coordination, increase strength and flexibility, and encourage a healthy lifestyle. Socially, sports provide a great opportunity for children to make friends, learn teamwork and communication skills, and build confidence. Emotionally, playing sports can help reduce stress, increase self-esteem, and foster a positive attitude.

Take your pick from the clubs on show and you may even discover a sport you might like to try yourself – it’s not only for the kids!

Amanda

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Detectives from the Mackay Property Crime Taskforce have charged a 25-year-old man with 40 offences in relation to a series of alleged property crime incidents spanning four days, between January 31 and February 3, in the Mackay area.

At approximately 8am on February 1, it was alleged a Toyota Corolla stolen from an Andergrove address that morning, had driven on the wrong side of the road before crashing into a pole next to a bus stop on Glenpark Street, North Mackay.

It was alleged the driver and sole occupant, a man, left the scene on foot before a second vehicle, a Nissan Patrol, was stolen from a nearby address.

Just before 7am February 3, it is alleged a man broke into a Habana Wharf Road property at Habana causing damage to a door and window with a chainsaw, before arming himself with an axe and knife and threatening a resident, a man in his 70s.

It is further alleged the man assaulted the male resident by punching him in the head.

Police attended and took the 25-year-old North Queensland man into custody.

He has been charged with 40 offences including five counts of break and enter to dwellings, four counts of unlawful use of a motor vehicle, two counts each of serious assault and common assault and one count each of dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, break and enter to a premises, threatening violence and assault occasioning bodily harm.

Police appeal to anyone with information or relevant CCTV and dashcam footage in relation to property crime offences in the Mackay area, particularly the traffic crash on Glenpark Street, 8am Wednesday, February 1, to come forward.

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Image: Mackay Detectives arrested a 25-year-old North Queensland man and charged him with 40 offences. Image: Police bodycam video

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Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, said that Mackay Christian College has suffered firsthand by the Youth Crime Epidemic last week with students almost being run over by an out-of-control stolen vehicle.

“This is becoming all too common with recent figures revealing that a record 2133 cars were stolen in QLD through December 2022,” Mr Willcox added.

“The Queensland State Government have switched off, wiping their hands of the issue. This is why I am standing with Leader of the Opposition David Crisafulli to recall Parliament now.  Our people can’t wait until the 21st for State Parliament to return,” Mr Willcox said.

“The State Member for Mackay and the three of blind mice of Townsville need to start listening to the peoples’ cries for help rather than toeing the party line.”

In Townsville and Mackay, it has become an everyday occurrence where young criminals are breaking into people’s homes.

“And those criminals are now moving into our smaller towns of Dawson. A young restauranteur and takeaway owner in Bowen was robbed at knife point.  And a stolen farm truck was hooned around town before being set alight in the local river,” Mr Willcox said.

“The current laws are failing our community; the current Labor MPs are failing our communities and the State Government is failing our communities.

“The people of Dawson are living in fear and are essentially prisoners in their own homes.  I am urging the State Labor Government to start looking after the victims of these crimes, not the criminals,” Mr Willcox said.

“Queenslanders want Parliament re-called now!”

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Caption: Mackay Christian College Principal Barclie Gallogray and Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox

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John Pickup OAM had a long and illustrious career in broadcasting before his involvement in the establishment of Community Radio Mackay 4CRM.

John’s media career began in 1947 when he was convinced to enter, and ultimately won, a talent quest with Sydney radio station 2UE.

He went on to work with 2GB before joining the ABC in 1950.

John’s ABC career took him far and wide across radio and television, a memorable moment coming when his hand became the first "animated object" ever seen on Australian television in 1956.

While with the ABC, John managed television and radio stations in Darwin, Broken Hill and Mackay, where he retired from his role as ABC Radio Mackay Manager in 1992.

Upon retirement, John joined an organisation working towards establishing a community radio station in Mackay.

After many discussions, license applications and the sourcing and testing of equipment, Community Radio Mackay 4CRM was brought into being, broadcasting for the first time on December 11, 1993 on frequency 107.5 FM.

As the inaugural Station Manager, John’s voice was the first heard on the station.

“John was the first voice heard on Community Radio Mackay and he wrote the initial original handbook,” said Community Radio Mackay President Bill Boyd.

“It really remains the guide to the people who come and volunteer at 4CRM.”

John remained at 4CRM until 2005, returning to Mackay in 2018 to celebrate the station’s 25th anniversary as guest of honour.

Away from the studio, John was an avid painter, famously forming the artist collective Brushmen of the Bush with Pro Hart, Eric Minchin, Jack Absalom, and Hugh Schulz while living in Broken Hill in 1973.

The group became famous for their depictions of the outback and staged over 50 exhibitions, raising money for various charities with each one.

During the 1970s, the Brushmen of the Bush exhibited in London, Rome, New York City and Los Angeles.

John was the recipient of the Order of Australia Medal in 2020 for service to the community as a regional radio broadcaster.

He passed away at his home in Murwillumbah on January 31, 2023 aged 91.

“The ethic of family broadcasting that John espoused will live long after him,” said Mr Boyd.

“We have adhered to that ethic at 4CRM, and we like to think that we broadcast wholesome family content, something for everyone.

“All I can say about John is he was the epitome of a gentleman.

“Just lovely, helpful, always keen, interested, ready to give advice on broadcasting or anything else, in fact.

“He had a huge experience in life and a joy for life, so it was a great privilege to have known John Pickup.”

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Caption: John Pickup (right) was the guest of honour at 4CRM’s 25 year celebrations in 2018

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Following a spike in consumer complaints since the pandemic, the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) has announced it has successfully redressed more than $11.2 million for Queensland consumers in 2022, including $716,745 in the Mackay region.

330 complaints were finalised by the OFT in the region with the most being made in personal and household goods, personal and household services, motor vehicle services, repairs, parts, motor vehicle sales and real estate industries.

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Shannon Fentiman said with more Queenslanders feeling the pressure from the rising cost of living, it’s important that consumers are getting what they paid for and that they feel they are getting value for money.

“Last year the OFT finalised more than 19,300 complaints from Queensland consumers,” she said.

“And the highest number of consumer complaints continued to be for the personal and household goods industry - with the OFT finalising more than 6,200 complaints.

“This category includes purchases of everyday items such as whitegoods, appliances, hardware, clothing and footwear – so it’s no surprise this continues to be at the top of the complaints list.

“However, since the pandemic, complaints have soared for these types of purchases, with more than a 50 per cent increase since 2019.

“There has also been an increase of more than 80 per cent in complaints for the personal and household services industry since the pandemic – this industry includes complaints about services such as whitegoods repairs, removalist services and cleaning companies.”

Increases are to be expected after pent-up demand and supply chain issues during COVID-19, an issue closely monitored by the OFT.  

These issues encountered by consumers in these sectors are expected to return closer to trend as supply chain issues resolve.

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Caption: Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Shannon Fentiman. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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Detectives from Mackay Child Protection and Investigation Unit (CPIU) are appealing for public assistance following the sudden death of a two-year-old girl at North Mackay on December 29.

Mackay CPIU, with the assistance of the Child Trauma Unit, Crime and Intelligence Command, have released CCTV footage of the child in company with a woman and several other young children at two Andergrove businesses that afternoon.

The child was being carried in a harness on the woman’s back.

As part of the police investigation detectives are wishing to speak with anyone who was at the United Chemist in Oak Street, Andergrove on Thursday, December 29 between around 3.50pm to 4pm.

Detectives are also seeking to speak with anyone who was at the Coles Supermarket, at Oak Street, Andergrove between 4pm and 5.30pm that afternoon.

The CCTV footage shows people inside the two businesses during these times and are asking them to immediately contact police as they may have information that could assist the investigation.

If you were at either the United Chemist or the Coles Supermarket between the times depicted above but do not appear in the CCTV, police still ask that you come forward.

Police were called at approximately 8.30pm on the evening of December 29 after a two-year-old girl was presented unresponsive to Mackay Base Hospital.

The girl was subsequently declared deceased.

Operation Uniform Vauxhall was established to investigate the suspicious circumstances surrounding her death.

An Incident Centre has been established at Mackay Police Station and investigations are ongoing.

Anyone with information in relation to the investigation is urged to contact police Policelink using the online suspicious activity form 24 hours per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or call 131 444.

Crime information can also be reported anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

Quote this reference number: QP2202229252.

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Caption: Queensland Police have released CCTV footage taken from two Andergrove businesses urging those present to come forward. Photo supplied

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