The Whitsunday region marked a historic moment with the official opening of Club Whitsunday in the Whitsunday Sports Park precinct at Airlie Beach. The Honourable Mr. Andrew Willcox MP, Federal Member for Dawson, had the distinct pleasure of cutting the ribbon on this groundbreaking development, which promises to be a cornerstone for both the region’s sporting culture and community spirit.

Club Whitsunday, now fully operational and trading for lunch and dinner seven days a week, offers a range of gaming and wagering options, fulfilling its promise as a vital community hub. With significant local support and an extensive network of partners, this facility stands as a testament to the hard work and dedication of all involved.

“It’s been a long time coming,” said Ry Collins, Mayor of the Whitsundays saying “This highlights what can be achieved when community vision and ambition along with three levels of government all working together can deliver a common goal for the community.”

The opening event, filled with family-friendly activities like face painting and a train ride for the kids, was a celebration of what has been a long journey. Local sports teams, community members, suppliers, construction partners, lenders, and government representatives all gathered to mark this significant occasion for the Whitsunday region and its sporting community.

Clay Bauman, Councillor for the Whitsunday Regional Council, spoke about the collaborative approach that helped bring the project to fruition. “I think it's terrific for all the sports clubs in the regions. We have worked with them for so long and now it's a license bar with pokies, with so many features separate it from other clubs.”

For Justin Butler, Chairman of Club Whitsunday, the opening was a deeply personal moment saying "I want to thank all the sports clubs that call the Sports Park home, including AFL, Touch Footy, Soccer, Netball, and the new code of Cricket," he said. "It’s been a long road, but we’re finally here. My family has been with me through this journey, and now we can look forward to more time together.” Justin said that “This Club should be a hub for building community spirit and sports for decades to come in the shire.”

Federal MP Andrew Willcox echoed the sentiment, acknowledging the commitment of local leaders in turning the vision into reality. "I’m pleased to do the official duties, opening club Whitsunday here today, it’s a project I've been involved in since beginning, going back to my mayoral days. I’m really pleased with Justin Butler, who's put blood, sweat and tears into this.” He said, “It’s a fantastic facility and it opens up being able to host touring games form all the different areas with the biggest advantage that it’s for the locals, and the profits of this club will go back into the local community.”

Club Whitsunday General Manager, Josh Prowse, expressed his gratitude for the local support saying “The Club’s trading now, with more events and functions booking here each day.” He wanted everyone to know that “every dollar spent, the more we get to put back into supporting the local clubs.”

Finally, Amanda Camm, MP Member of the Queensland Parliament, praised the tenacity of those who made the project a reality saying, “I think the tenacity, particularly of Justin, and those on his committee, from the initial concept now to what we're seeing, it needs to be commended. They never gave up.” She also said, “the facility inside and outside out is a quality finish and they should be congratulated.”

With the doors officially open, Club Whitsunday is poised to become a central gathering place, not only for sport but for the broader community. The journey may have been long, but the outcome is a facility that will benefit generations of sports enjoyers and club-goers to come.

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Did you know?

If you have a pool or a spa on your property, it must be registered with the QBCC. As well as having a compliant fence, pools must also have visible and weatherproof CPR signage.

To ensure the safety of yourself and others using your pool or spa, regularly inspect its fence or barrier for rust, loose hinges, or broken panels, and arrange repairs as needed. Make sure no climbable objects like furniture or toys are near the fence.

Taking these few small steps can make a big difference in preventing accidents and can ensure a safe summer swimming season for all.

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When 78-year-old Margaret lined up at Coles to pay for her groceries, she never expected a stranger’s kindness to turn her day around.

As she reached the checkout, she fumbled with her phone, trying to transfer funds.

“She couldn’t get service or her phone to work to cover her bill,” her granddaughter later explained.

Margaret then stepped aside to try again.

Moments later, a Coles employee approached her with surprising news.

A kind gentleman behind her in line had paid for her items.

In disbelief and gratitude, Margaret looked around, but the young man was gone.

She had no chance to thank him, but his generosity stayed with her. His quiet generosity not only lifted the burden in that moment but also sparked a ripple effect, inspiring Margaret to carry the goodwill forward.

“A big thank you from her,” her family later shared.

“She is determined to pay it forward.”

Margaret left the store with more than just her groceries - she carried a renewed faith in the kindness of strangers, already thinking of how she could do the same for others.

“You have a beautiful heart…I hope good karma comes your way.”

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Eve O Schaub, in her book ‘Year of No Garbage: Recycling Lies, Plastic Problems, and One Woman’s Trashy Journey to Zero Waste,’ set out to find out whether a person could really live without garbage and gave garbage up for a year to live the recycling dream.  She discovered very quickly that:
   • Recycling can feel like a full-time job, as finding where and how to recycle products often leads to dead ends. Most people don’t have the time for this complexity, nor should it be so difficult.
   • Avoiding plastic in food purchases severely limits options and raises concerns about malnutrition, with considerable effort required to find alternatives.
   • "Greenwashing" is rampant, where eco-friendly claims often mislead consumers about what can truly be recycled or composted.
   • Ocean garbage patches now cover 40% of the ocean's surface—larger than all the land on Earth combined.
   • Studies show we ingest a credit card’s worth of plastic each week, which is linked to health issues like endocrine disruption, neurodegenerative disorders, cardiovascular disease, and cancer.
As a mother, I've read my children numerous books about making healthy choices for our environment. One common suggestion is to recycle, which could be effective if all plastic products were recyclable.
The book explains that most plastics can't currently be recycled, which is why, despite recycling efforts, tons of plastic still end up on our shores each year. It emphasises that individual actions alone won't solve the issue and that top-down systems, like legislative changes holding companies accountable, are necessary to create realistic recycling options.
Walking along Whitsunday Island beaches filled with plastic has been confronting as a parent. The recycling solutions presented in children's books seem like fairytales, offering a circular system that doesn't yet exist efficiently.
Avoiding plastics entirely, especially with young children, feels like an insurmountable challenge in today's society.
While individual efforts matter, the book shows that without accessible recycling systems, large-scale change is unlikely. It highlights the need for legislative action, similar to how lead was phased out through regulation. Given the harm caused by plastic, similar changes are crucial to tackling the crisis.
The book is highly recommended, and a copy can be found at the Whitsunday Regional Library, Cannonvale, QLD. Here's a taste from pg 163.
Some Terrible Truths About Plastics From The Book:
   1. Plastic is not really recyclable
   2. “Single-stream” recycling is a lie.
   3. “Compostable” plastics are pretty much a total lie (with one notable exception)
   4. Forget one giant ocean garbage patch; there are five.
   5. Plastics are in our water, air, and food.  Also, our bloodstream, bodily waste, and the placenta of newborn babies.
Got it? The plastic problem is overwhelming—invading our bodies, harming the environment, and we’re surrounded by lies about recycling. Let’s break it down.
...break it down this book does.  While the issue is daunting, the real challenge is failing to make necessary changes. Shifting the public’s view of the recycling "fairytale" could be key to a better future.
Though sombre at times, the book is witty and hopeful.
Book Review by Amy Youngsmith.

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Free customer service workshops will be held in Bowen and Airlie Beach in March for business owners, staff, and volunteers. Everyone involved in welcoming guests to our region will benefit from the ‘Whitsundays Welcomes You’ program – an opportunity to enhance guest experiences and showcase the unique charm of our region.
This initiative is part of a statewide program designed to empower the industry to share their pride and passion for the Whitsundays while providing a warm, inclusive, and welcoming experience for visitors. Kathleen Maher, a former Whitsundays resident, is the Statewide Project Manager for the Queensland Welcomes You Program. She was instrumental in developing the program and managing its statewide rollout.
Earlier this year, Kathleen attended the Queensland Information Centre’s (QICA) conference in Kingaroy, where she explained the program to delegates. While at the conference, she also met with Leanne Abernethy, Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, and Glenn Womal, Visitor Services Coordinator.
The program is free, and the workshops in Bowen and Airlie Beach will be specifically tailored to our region. Leanne encourages local business owners and staff to attend one of the workshops. Sessions will cover topics including hosting visitors, storytelling, accessibility and inclusion, sustainability, and showcasing local experiences.
Tourism Minister Andrew Powell, stated that the workshops will equip everyone in guest services to become passionate hosts, delivering exceptional and inclusive experiences. Workshop is FREE to attend but registration is essential with limited spaces available. Secure your spot today! Register now at: www.qld.gov.au/qldwelcomesyou or email: kmaher@brisbane-eda.com.au
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WHAT: Whitsunday Welcomes You Program Workshop
WHEN: Wednesday 12 March
WHERE: Mantra Club Croc, Airlie Beach 9.30am-11.30am OR Grand View Hotel, Bowen 2pm-4pm

Project manager for the “Queensland Welcomes You” program, Katheleen Maher (centre) with Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business Leanne Abernethy and Visitor Services Co-ordinator Glenn Womal. Photo Supplied: Leanne Abernethy

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I grew up in a family business. Being a receptionist, a gatekeeper, and an excellent taker of phone messages is in my blood. I have seen firsthand the long days, the growth, and the steep learning curve that comes with technological advances— from typewriters to computers and dot matrix printers, from two-way radios to mobile phones.

As a kid, there was obviously a lot I wasn’t privy to—the real pain points of small business owners: managing a team, paying wages, paying rent, and everything in between. I admired the work my parents put in, but at best, I was a passenger on the journey.

That is, until my daughter received a sewing machine for her 13th birthday. It became an exciting outlet for her creativity. She buzzed away in her room, appearing intermittently with a new creation or requesting a trip to Spotlight for fabric. Then she discovered how easy it was to make scrunchies (hair accessories, for those who don’t know). She started making them for her friends, neighbours, and teammates, and at some point, she identified the market potential of her passion. Next thing I knew… I was once again part of a family business.

If you’ve ever thought about turning your hobby into a business, you’re not alone. Breaking free from the 9-to-5 grind with a side hustle that brings you joy is the dream of many. However, transforming your passion into a profitable business takes more than just enthusiasm—it requires strategic planning, hard work, and a bit of courage.

My daughter had enthusiasm in spades, but perhaps skipped a few key steps in the Turning Your Passion into a Viable Business handbook. Before I knew it, she was busily building her brand—there was a website and business cards. It was sharp, it represented what she offered and what she stood for. As the supplier of seed funding, I was impressed. We were in business.

A business plan is a roadmap. It should include (among myriad other things) financial projections and an operational plan. It will guide you through the startup phase and ensure your business is viable. We did not have one of these. Instead, we skipped ahead to leveraging our network—and they came to the party. Everyone we knew ordered the "ten scrunchie deal." We ran out of stock, we had undercharged for postage, and we couldn’t keep up with demand.

When starting a small business, it’s tempting to go all in from the beginning, but it’s important to start small and scale gradually. My daughter was struggling to fill orders, find time to cut fabric, and ship products. Luckily, she had access to a very willing work experience student—me. The money was good, but the stress was getting to her.

We know how important it is for small business owners to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Turning your passion into a business should enhance your life, not consume it. Unfortunately, after a few short months—and many life lessons—the scrunchie business closed its doors.

At the Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce, supporting small businesses and business owners is what we do. Whether it’s connecting you with a network that makes you feel less alone, pointing you toward grant funding, or helping you cut through red tape, we’re here to help.
Just don’t ask me to sew.

Contributed with thanks to Ellen Madden
Mackay Region Chamber Of Commerce
Business Engagement, Events and Communications Manager

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St Patrick’s College Mackay has a long history of offering excellence in education as a Catholic Coeducational College in the Diocese of Rockhampton catering for Years 7 to 12.

Families looking for a quality Catholic Secondary education in Mackay are invited to attend the St Patrick’s College Mackay Open Night being held on Wednesday 19 March at the Mercy Campus in Penn Street, Mackay from 4.00pm to 7.00pm.

Prospective parents and students are warmly invited to join us for an enjoyable and informative evening filled with activities and opportunities. Explore our diverse range of subject displays, chat to teachers about our curriculum, whilst admiring students’ work and classroom activities.

Don’t miss the opportunity to discover valuable information about our vocational and sporting programs. Throughout the evening, you’ll also enjoy dynamic performances from the College Cultural ensembles, showcasing the incredible talent and creativity of our students in captivating live performances.

For those attending there is a Treasure Map prize draw at 6:30pm at the Pavilion offering:
• First Prize - $200 City Beach Gift Voucher
• Second Prize - $100 City Beach Gift Voucher
• Third Prize - $50 City Beach Gift Voucher

Why enrol at St Patrick’s College? St Patrick’s is a partnership between students, staff and parents, providing an environment of learning, personal growth and faith development while recognising students as young adults.

St Patrick’s College holds as its central character the motto ‘Seek and Serve Christ’.

With strong academic, vocational, sporting, cultural, and spiritual programs, St Patrick’s College offers positive experiences for students in a dynamic and exciting dual campus environment.

The College is ideally located close to Mackay’s burgeoning Sports precinct with Multi Sports Basketball and Netball Stadium, BB Print Stadium, Junior League Fields, Harrup Park cricket fields, netball courts, plus soccer and hockey fields nearby, as well as the Paget Business District.

If you would like more information regarding enrolment at St Patrick’s College Mackay, please visit our website www.stpats.qld.edu.au or call (07) 4994 8700.

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Exciting structural upgrades and enhanced security have created a safer, more inviting space for Sarina children to play.

The Sarina and District Community Kindergarten Association (Sarina Kindy) has improved its facilities with new stage decking and upgraded security cameras, made possible by a $17,470 community grant from Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank.

The project enabled a significant refit and upgrade to the deteriorating stage decking in the outdoor play area. Sarina Kindy Grant Officer Angela Patroni said the upgraded deck serves as a “hub for learning experiences”.

“The new deck promotes interaction, storytelling, and provides a secure outdoor learning and play area for all students,” Miss Patroni said.
Additionally, three PSA high-definition security cameras and floodlight combinations have been installed as a proactive measure to deter crime and anti-social behaviour in and around the centre.

“The cameras ensure 24/7 surveillance to prevent vandalism, theft, unauthorised intruders, and to monitor entrances and exits.”

Sarina Kindy President Leigh Ford said its educators and families had expressed sincere gratitude to Community Bank Sarina for their support in making this project a reality.

“The successful completion of this initiative is a testament to the collaborative efforts of our community, dedicated staff, and the generosity of the Community Bank Sarina,” Ms Ford said.

“Maintaining a Kindy facility to be safe and inviting requires consistent efforts. The need for regular maintenance is crucial to guarantee the wellbeing of students and to create a conducive space for learning and growth.”

Community Bank Sarina invites community and not-for-profit groups to attend its Community Engagement Program Information Session to explore funding opportunities for 2025 - 5:30pm, March 4 at Sarina Bowls Club. Visit their Facebook event to register, registrations are essential: www.facebook.com/communitybanksarina.

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Choosing the right estate agent may seem like a minor decision, but it is one of the most important factors when selling or buying a property. The right agent can make all the difference in finding your dream home or securing the best deal for your sale.
Here are five key tips to help you find the perfect estate agent:

1. Do Your Research
Before selecting an agent, take the time to research their experience, track record, and reputation. Look at online reviews, past sales, and client testimonials to get a sense of their performance.

2. Prioritise Local Knowledge
An agent with extensive knowledge of the local market is invaluable. Ask potential agents how long they have worked in the area and test their understanding of property trends, pricing, and neighbourhood insights. A well-informed agent brings energy and expertise that can significantly impact your sale or purchase.

3. Observe Them in Action
Attend open houses hosted by the agents you are considering. Pay attention to how they interact with buyers, present properties, and handle enquiries. A strong agent should be confident, approachable, and skilled at generating interest.

4. Ask the Right Questions
The more information you gather, the better prepared you will be for the sales process. Ask agents to walk you through case studies of previous sales, explaining how they achieved results. Find out why they use specific strategies and what approach they would recommend for your property.

5. Set Expectations and Check In Regularly
A great agent should have a clear strategy for selling your home. Establish expectations early and stay in touch throughout the process to ensure they are following through on their plan and adjusting strategies when needed.
Lastly, it is essential that you feel comfortable with your agent. Trust and communication are key to a smooth property transaction, so choose someone who makes you feel confident in the process.

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Cent sales are always billed as ‘mega’ but Sarina Arts and Craft Centre’s upcoming event will be exactly that.

Centre manager Jenny Costello and a core group of helpers are putting together an amazing collection of prizes for the sale, at the Sarina Sporting and Services Club on Saturday, March 8.

“We’ve had a marvelous response from business, organisations and people within the Sarina and wider Mackay area as we’ve been collecting for the sale,” Jenny said.

“We have lots of high-quality prizes, and our major prizes are terrific.

“As well as the prizes there will be multi-draws, raffles, money boards and a lucky door prize.”

Doors open at 10.30 for a noon start.

_Bookings can be made (not essential) by phoning Jenny Costello on 0414735787._

WHAT:  Sarina Arts and Craft Centre's Cent Sale
WHERE: Sarina Sporting and Services Club
WHEN: Saturday, March 8 at 10am

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Cent sale organiser Jenny Costello and helpers Di Proctor, Jenny Price and Marg Hinrichs with some of the prizes for next month’s mega cent sale. Photo supplied

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A Mackay ICU doctor is investigating how the immune system responds to a deadly soil-borne bacterial disease, which is surging across Far North Queensland, in an effort to help tailor treatment.

Cases of the life-threatening infection, melioidosis, have climbed to 41 in North Queensland this year following recent wet weather. This includes 27 cases in Cairns, 11 in Townsville, and three in Mackay, with two tragic deaths reported.

Mackay Base Hospital Intensivist Dr Eamon Raith secured funding late last year from the Tropical Australian Academic Health Centre (TAAHC) to research immune dysfunction in sepsis caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei, the bacteria responsible for melioidosis, in North Queensland.

Dr Raith explained that the infection is common in tropical regions and is transmitted through contact with contaminated soil, water, or air. He chose to focus his sepsis research on melioidosis due to its severe and often fatal impact on patients.

“The problem is we don't know which patients are going to develop sepsis due to melioidosis and which people are going to have just a mild infection,” Dr Raith said.

“We are looking into what different people's responses are to that infection; whether there are differences in immune response amongst people with severe infection and in intensive care.

“North Queensland and Tropical Australia have a broadly different pattern of infections to the rest of the country, because we have tropical diseases and a different population.

“By knowing specifically what we're dealing with here in North Queensland we can provide specific care to people with sepsis and melioidosis in North Queensland.

“This research will ultimately help to provide personalised and precision medicine.”

There were 67 cases of melioidosis in Queensland between January and November last year including three in Mackay and eleven in Townsville.

Dr Raith’s 24-month observational study will compare the physiological data of between 20 and 40 intensive care patients with melioidosis in Mackay and Townsville hospitals using immunophenotyping and multi-omic analysis of their immune response.

Dr Raith said research was vital to improve both healthcare and outcomes for patients.

“We need to continue to evolve specific and precise methods of treating severe illness and infection and that’s really why research is so important,” he said.

“It’s really important for regional centres and for rural and remote practitioners to engage in research because that’s how they provide the data for new treatments and new technologies.”

Dr Raith’s regionally focussed research projects may also help identify future issues which could exacerbate the pre-dominance of life-threatening disease.

“Areas outside North Queensland may also become more subtropical or tropical in the future due to climate change, potentially extending the ecosphere of this bacteria,” he said.

“So that’s another reason research such as this is important, as this could potentially become an even bigger problem.”

Dr Raith has also earned a TAAHC Clinician Researcher Fellowship for his work on sepsis subphenotypes in North Queensland and was awarded a Churchill Fellowship last year for his research into treating critical brain injuries.

Contributed By Mackay Hospital Health Service

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From nerves to newfound freedom, local resident Telina, has proven that hard work and determination can lead to meaningful milestones.

An Endeavour Foundation, Mackay Business Solutions site employee for nearly 30 years, Telina has recently achieved a significant personal goal – she’s purchased her own  car.

Her sights are now set on driving independently.

“I was very nervous when I first started to drive, as I had been waiting for years for it to happen,” Telina shared.

“I studied every chance I got.

“There was never a time I thought I couldn’t do it - if I worked hard enough, I’d get there,”  she added.

While mastering the road rules has proved her biggest challenge, she’s determined to pass her final driving test … because she already has the car.

The motivated motoring enthusiast, endeavoured to save over $10,000 to buy her first car, but with disciplined saving achieved the two year goal, in just 18 months.

“Having my own car means having more freedom,” Telina explained.

Independence enables Telina the opportunity to explore and manage her daily life with greater ease.

Telina credits her team at Endeavour Foundation for providing unwavering support.

“They made sure I had transport to and from my assessment at the Department of Main Roads,” Telina said.

“Even though I didn’t pass (my driving test) the first time, everyone was so kind and supportive.

“They told me not to give up and reminded me I had done a great job, which made me feel so much better,” Telina confirmed.

However, the warehouse assistant confirms, the support goes both ways.

“I enjoy my friendships at Endeavour and making new friends.

“Working here makes me proud and gives me confidence in myself to grow,” Telina concluded.

Discover how Endeavour Foundation empowers people living with disability to reach their full potential, through their range of supportive services at www.endeavour.com.au.

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Telina’s journey from nerves to newfound freedom shows how Endeavour Foundation’s support, paired with her determination, helped her achieve her dream of driving and gaining independence. Photo supplied

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Introducing Mackay Base Hospital’s newest edition to the crew Tali - a wheaten Border Collie whose mission is to simply look cute and spread love to patients in need.

For some time now, the Mackay Hospital Foundation has been teaming up with Mackay Hospital and Health Service to get the official green light for a therapy dog at Mackay Base Hospital.

Clinical Nurse Claire works alongside Tali as a clinical therapy dog team, through Therapy Dogs.

Every week, Tali and Claire brighten up the Eat, Walk, Engage units at Mackay Base Hospital, and the response from patients has been incredible. Tali eagerly accepts pats from patients and is always ready to share some adorable puppy kisses.

Mackay Hospital Foundation General Manager, Kristi Algate said, “Currently Tali and Claire come to the hospital one day per week for a few hours and for now, the visit is contained to two wards but seeing the welcome Tali has received and the smiles on the faces of patients, we’d eventually love to see the hours increased.”

Research has shown that interacting with animals helps to induce a relaxation response which in turn lowers blood pressure, slows breathing in those who are anxious and can even change the way pain is experienced. It’s also been noted there is some evidence to suggest that animal interactions can reduce the amount of medication that some patients require.

Therapy dogs can reduce stress and provide a sense of connection in difficult situations, as well as provide social and emotional support for individuals of all ages.

Tali and Claire are currently the only registered therapy dog team in the region.

Ms Algate noted that “Sometimes, improving health outcomes isn’t solely about medication.

“Seeing Tali brighten the lives of patients and witnessing the improved wellbeing in patients is heart-warming.”

Tali joins in on group activities, encouraging patients and motivating them to be more mobile. Research shows that staying mobile helps prevent functional decline and reduces the risk of falls during hospital stays. Tali’s visits are also boosting patients' moods, promoting relaxation, and improving their engagement with others.

Kristi said, “The approval process has been lengthy but I’m sure the staff and patients would agree, Tali and Claire have definitely been worth the wait”.

To find out more information about Mackay Hospital Foundation, visit
https://www.mackayhospitalfoundation.com.au/

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The Eat, Walk Engage team with Claire Cox, Kristi Algate and Tali. Photos supplied

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Clinical Nurse Claire Cox and Tali

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A delegation of 12 leading agribusinesses and innovators from the Greater Whitsunday region have travelled to Brisbane this week to attend evokeAG 2025, Asia-Pacific’s premier agrifood innovation event.

Supported by the Greater Whitsunday Agtech Hub and Regional Development Australia (RDA), this delegation had the opportunity to learn, experience, and promote the Greater Whitsunday region while exploring potential partnerships and collaboration opportunities that will strengthen regional agribusiness and innovation.

EvokeAG, hosted by AgriFutures Australia, is a world-class platform where industry leaders, researchers, investors, and policymakers unite to drive innovation and growth in the agrifood sector.

The event allowed Greater Whitsunday delegates to experience the latest advancements in agricultural technology, sustainability practices, and investment opportunities that could shape the future of the region’s agribusiness landscape.

The Greater Whitsunday delegation had a unique opportunity to connect with national and international stakeholders, positioning the region as a hub for agritech innovation.

The key goals of the delegation included:

• Exploring strategic partnerships and collaborations to enhance regional agribusiness development.

• Showcasing local agtech success stories that highlight Greater Whitsunday’s potential for investment and innovation.

• Promoting the Greater Whitsunday Agtech Hub online portal, an innovative platform supporting agtech adoption and business growth in the region.

• Gaining insights into emerging agricultural technologies and best practices to drive sustainability, productivity, and resilience in regional farming.

Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) Chief Executive Officer Ms Kylie Porter emphasised the significance of this delegation in driving the region’s agricultural future.

“Greater Whitsunday has a thriving agribusiness sector, and evokeAG 2025 presents an invaluable opportunity for our local innovators to engage with global leaders, explore new investment streams, and bring cutting-edge advancements back to our region.”

Ms Porter said the evokeAG experience would continue with the sold-out evokeAG sideline event showcasing why the Greater Whitsunday region is best placed to embrace an emerging biomanufacturing sector.

Co-hosted by GW3, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), and the Queensland Government, the tour will provide insights into ground-breaking biorefining innovations and industry collaborations.

The Mackay biomanufacturing tour will offer delegates a firsthand look at cutting-edge innovations in biomanufacturing and agribusiness.

Highlights include a visit to the Mackay Renewable Biocommodity Pilot Plant and Mackay Sugar’s Racecourse Mill to explore precision fermentation and biorefining technologies.
An industry-focused lunch at the Resources Centre of Excellence will be followed by a tour of its underground mine simulator.

A regional showcase will feature key sites such as North Queensland Bulk Ports Port of Mackay and the Queensland Sugar Limited (QSL) sugar terminal, demonstrating the region’s strong integration of industry, agriculture, and biomanufacturing.

Ms Porter said the Greater Whitsunday region has been leading an intensive campaign to establish this emerging industry in the region since 2018.

“This is an exciting time for Greater Whitsunday, and we are proud to showcase our region’s potential on the national and global stage.

“Mackay has long been recognised as an ideal location to lead a domestic biomanufacturing sector due to our abundance of feed stocks, sophisticated logistics network of roads, ports and rail as well as a highly skilled, technical workforce,” she said.

Contributed by Greater Whitsunday Alliance

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A new bursary has been announced to recognise the late Liz Alexander’s significant contributions to agricultural innovation in Queensland and beyond.

Unveiled by the Minister for Primary Industries at evokeAG 2025 - the Asia-Pacific region’s premier agrifood innovation event in Brisbane - the bursary will support an emerging AgTech leader by covering the cost of attending a future evokeAG forum.

The Crisafulli Government has honoured Alexander’s pioneering work by naming the initiative in her memory. A driving force behind Queensland’s AgTech ecosystem, Alexander played a pivotal role in programs such as AgFrontier and i4Connect and served on multiple boards, including Cotton Australia, Plant Health Australia, and QRIDA.

The Crisafulli Government is delivering a fresh start for Queensland and is focused on boostingthe State’s agricultural productivity to $30 billion by 2030.

That goal is underpinned by the Crisafulli Government’s $30M Sowing Seeds of Farming Innovation fund, which will deliver cutting-edge techniques and unearth the world’s best farming practices.

Minister Perrett said the bursary will be awarded to an outstanding leader in Queensland’s AgTech ecosystem, covering the cost of attending a future evokeAG forum.

“Liz Alexander was a true pioneer and a passionate advocate for Queensland’s AgTech sector,” Minister Perrett said.

“Liz championed not only technology and innovation, but also the people behind them — the start-up founders, investors, and enablers working to supercharge the productivity and sustainability of our primary industries.

“This bursary is about recognising those who continue to lead in that space and drive meaningful change in Queensland’s primary industries.

“I look forward to seeing the next generation of AgTech leaders emerge and continue the work that Liz so passionately championed” Minister Perrett said.

Sonya Comiskey, chair of the Agtech Advisory Group that works with the Department of Primary Industries to collaborate with farmers on AgTech innovations, said Ms Alexander’s leadership, vision and dedication to fostering innovation in agriculture was second to none.

“Liz has left a legacy that continues to shape the industry today,” Ms Comiskey said.

“This bursary will honour her contributions and inspire future generations of AgTech and regional leaders,” Ms Comiskey said.

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Liz passed away in July 2024 from complications related to her cancer treatment. She was 51. Photo source: CHDC

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