R U OK, Constant Reader?

Yesterday was a special day when we asked each other how we were feeling. An opportunity to have an open and honest conversation, you and I.

One of my mother’s favourite sayings is: “A problem shared is a problem halved.” I believe in that more than I could ever express.

I think we’re very fortunate to live in a time when mental health awareness is becoming so de-stigmatised. I’m sure that a lot of people out there remember when it wasn’t – it hasn’t been the case in my lifetime – and I count myself so lucky for that.

Yesterday was an exceptional example of that growing awareness, as the non-for-profit charity R U OK? spread its message of how conversation can change lives. Across the country, people asked (and should continue to ask) each other how they’re travelling.

R U OK? Day is just brilliant, isn’t it?

So, for something different in my return to the Editor’s hot seat this week, I’ve got an offer: I want to tell you how I’m feeling, and for you to send me email to tell me how you’re going, too. Because we all struggle a little sometimes, and there’s power in telling each other that.

For me, this week’s been a bit tough. Lots of things conspiring to make me feel overwhelmed, to make me feel inadequate, I suppose. Those feelings feed off each other, and it’s a cycle that I know all too well. So, what have I done about it? I’ve told people. I spoke to good friends, to family, and I spoke to anyone who would listen. I got out and about, I went for walks and runs, and I practiced mindfulness – because not everything your brain tells you is true, nor is it helpful.

So, that’s how I’m feeling. What about you?

Email me at declan@mackayandwhitsundaylife.com

Quote of the week:

“I can see the sun, but even if I cannot see the sun, I know that it exists. And to know that the sun is there - that is living.”- Fyodor Dostoevsky, The Brothers Karamazov

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A group of dedicated and proactive individuals have banded together to create a tangible and practical solution for affordable housing in our region and it is hoped that this project will act as an example for others to follow.

Whitsunday Housing Company, who currently manage 130 social houses in the region, are working alongside their Chair and local Councillor Jan Clifford, as well as local philanthropist Sandy Clark to create four affordable houses in Proserpine.

The land, which is adjacent to the community centre, has been donated by the Whitsunday Regional Council and funding to complete the construction of the homes is being partly paid for with funds from Whitsunday Housing Company.

A host of charity events, sponsorship opportunities and fundraising projects coordinated by Ms Clark will contribute the remaining.

“Everything is against us, but we will win!” said Ms Clark.

Women over 55 are at the highest risk of becoming homeless and the four houses in Proserpine will be allocated specifically to assist this demographic.

“Homeless women aren’t as out there as others, they tend to hide in their cars or use family and friends, hop from one couch to the other,” said Cr Clifford.

“It’s almost hidden but it’s a huge problem and it is the fastest growing demographic of homelessness in the nation - it’s an embarrassment, we are not a third world country!”

After some research Whitsunday Housing Company have narrowed the housing options down to two of the most affordable – either a one-roof row of four houses or four prefabricated one-day granny flats.

It is estimated the entire project will cost $500,000 including a shared driveway and the team aim to complete the build by mid-2023.

There are currently 55 individuals waiting for single-person social housing in the Whitsundays and these four homes will be given to those who are most in need.

The group are now calling for anyone able to donate time or goods to the project, as every little saving will help.

“We’ve got to unite people in the community so we have a sense of urgency and a sense of responsibility,” said Ms Clarke.

“Because this could be your mother, aunt or sister.”

How can you help? You could donate the following:

• Air conditioning units and installation

• A workforce to paint the walls

• Supply white goods such as washing machine or fridge

• Blinds and curtains

• Pavers and earthworks

• Lighting and electrical fit-out

• Plumbing - install bathrooms and water

• Furnishings such as lounge suite, kitchen table

Any contribution would be more than appreciated, even if you are offering something as simple as your time. Reach out to Whitsunday Housing Company on 4946 7194 to register your interest.

Sandy Clarke is also taking corporate sponsorships – for $20,000 a business can have their name on a plaque to sponsor one of the homes. There are also a variety of sponsorship packages available for her upcoming Charity Cocktail Party Fundraiser and she is happy to discuss fundraising avenues if any local business would like to get involved. Simply phone Sandy on 0416 181 348.

Kim Porter from Whitsunday Uniting Church, Jill Morris from Whitsunday Housing Company, Stephanie Cora from Bowen Neighbourhood Centre, Tim Oberg, Tim Mander MP, Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP and Rebecca Woods from Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre

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Published author of three political thriller novels and former Federal Politician, Richard Evans, has just moved to the Whitsundays from Melbourne and is already working on a book based in his new home.

A corporate executive for much of his life and a politician in the 1990s, Evans says he understands “the tribalism, the bullying, the manipulation of power, the backstabbing and the egos” involved with high-powered positions and feels inspired to write about them in his books.

Using his political insider knowledge to write page-turning thrillers exposing the dark art of politics, Evans draws upon the turbulent era when Keating and Howard were

faced with demanding social and economic issues.

He writes about contemporary topics like parliamentary integrity, women’s equality, Aboriginal sovereignty, water rights, and euthanasia.

Part of the emerging genre in political and parliamentary thrillers, Evans released his first book, Deceit, in 2018. He has now published a total of six books that are available across Australia. His next book, The Mallee, examines the issue of water rights and will be released in November 2022.

Bringing this wealth of knowledge to the Whitsundays, Evans hopes to be inspired by the local environment.

“We chose Airlie Beach because of its many gems, especially its sense of

community, and we are slowly working our way through its splendour,” he said.

“But I’m conscious of ensuring my writing day is productive and already I am working through a thriller based in the region, as well continuing to support writers who wish to self-publish their work.”

Highly regarded political thriller author Richard Evans

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It might be a little too early in the year for November Rain but not for an explosive live tribute to “the most dangerous band in the world” at the Airlie Beach Hotel in late September, booked for a very special Sunday Session event.

Take me down to The Pub when Paradise City - Guns N’ Roses Show bring an explosive live performance to Airlie, paying homage to one of the biggest bands of all time and their globe-conquering era.

The band, who launched to stardom with the highest selling debut album of all time, are brought back to life with this revival show for the ages. They’ll keep the high echelon shows rolling with an afternoon of rock at The Pub one week after GEED UP play on Saturday and Sunday, September 17 and 18.

New generations of youngsters have been blessed with a full catalogue of rock anthems to trawl through, and those who were there to see them live remember the vibration and electricity of their sound, idolising these iconic rock gods for decades.

In the ‘Paradise City’ – Guns N’ Roses show, Sweet Child O’ Mine fanatics have found the closest thing to the real deal in their prime.

If you’ve got an Appetite For Destruction, look no further than this astonishingly accurate homage to Guns N’ Roses in their world conquering era of ’87 to ’93.

It all starts with Paradise City front man, Paul, who channels Axl Rose’s unique vocals that’ll have you on your knees, feeling like you’ve travelled back in time.

Sweet Child O’ Mine, you’ll be absolutely spoilt by this resurrection of the early ’90s Guns N’ Roses style.

With authentic attire, lead guitarist Nathan is almost possessed by the powerful playing of Slash and his classic style. With trademark Gibson Les Paul in hand, untamed afro, and the unmistakable top hat, it’ll be like one of the most renowned guitarists of all time is on the Bar Top Stage at Airlie Beach Hotel.

For two hours, ‘Paradise City’ run the gamut of Roses’ mega hits: Sweet Child O’ Mine, Paradise City, November Rain, Welcome To The Jungle, Patience, Don’t Cry, You Could Be Mine, Knockin’ On Heaven’s Door, and much, much more. Make sure you don’t miss the tasty selection of fan favourites, too, like Nightrain, Rocket Queen, Civil War, and Estranged to name a few.

Don’t miss this free show at the Airlie Beach Hotel and a resurrection of rock royalty and its ‘90’s style.

What: ‘Paradise City’ Guns ‘N’ Roses Show

When: 2.00pm to 5.30pm on Sunday, September 25

Where: The Airlie Beach Hotel

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For many people living with cancer in rural and remote areas, navigating the complex world of medical appointments and ensuring you are receiving the most effective treatment possible can be challenging.

In addition to that, living with cancer can be an isolating experience where even your well-intended friends and family members are unable to truly understand what you are going through.

Fortunately, there is help out there.

For the past nine years Natasha Leaver has been running the Bowen Cancer and Ostomy Support Group which helps connect people living with cancer, their families and carers.

By holding monthly meetings, the group has been able to help countless members over the years and regularly sees 20 people attend.

Don’t be fooled by the serious subject matter, however, this group definitely knows how to laugh and have fun, while also unearthing issues with the medical system that need addressing.

Earlier this year Natasha decided to start a branch of the group in Collinsville and when she told the Bowen crew, they all asked if they could come along.

With kind donations from the Seagulls Rugby League Club and Bowen Cricket Club they were able to raise funds to hire the Bowen PCYC mini bus so they could take the gang to Collinsville.

Eileen from the Opal Ridge Motel kindly provided lunch for everyone on the day and five new members came to the meet and greet.

The next gathering was held at Collinsville Community Centre in July and the following one is scheduled for Monday, September 19 at 10am.

If you are living with cancer, any type of cancer, don’t do it alone. Reach out to Natasha through the Facebook group and connect with others.

You can say as little or as much as you want at the meetings and if there is an issue you would like to raise or seek help with, then the group may be able to assist you.

WHAT: Bowen Cancer and Ostomy Support Group

WHERE: Collinsville Community Centre

WHEN: Monday, September 19 at 10am

Regular meetings are also held in Bowen – head to the Facebook page for more details or email socialmindhealth@outlook.com

The Collinsville Cancer and Ostomy Support meeting in July

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The annual Community Memorial Ceremony for those affected by suicide is taking place tomorrow morning and is inviting everyone to come down and remember the lives we have lost too soon.

A positive yet reflective service, the focus of the ceremony will be honouring the memory of loved ones and remembering the good times.

This is also an opportunity for families who have lived similar journeys to come together and quietly share a moment with people who understand what they have been through.

The service is hosted by Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN) and committee member Adriel Burley will lead the event.

Mr Burley has vast experience helping veteran families with deaths by suicide and has come down from Townsville especially for the service.

Pastor Olwyn Harris from Liberty Church in Proserpine will officiate and make a short presentation on the significance of the service.

Treasurer of WSPN Paul Burke said that the mood will be more reflective than sombre.

“Most importantly we have this time to remember and honour the memory of those that have been lost and taken their own lives,” he said.

“Particularly to remember the good times with those people, reflect on their lives and what they meant to us.”

The official ceremony will last just 30 minutes, after which everyone is invited outside to the waterfront where they will be given a yellow sunflower.

They are then invited to stand and think of happy memories with their lost one before casting the sunflower into the water and watching as it slowly drifts away.

Afterwards, everyone is welcome to go back inside the main building for tea and coffee with the opportunity to chat with others, share experiences and helpful tools for getting through tough days.

If you are worried about a loved one or would like to reach out and talk to a professional about your own mental wellbeing, there are a variety of free and confidential numbers you can call.

Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14

Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636

MensLine Australia: 1300 78 99 78

Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467

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For the first time in recent memory, a Whitsunday Brahmans Rugby League player claimed the top spot in his age group at the Mackay and District Junior Rugby League presentations.

Proserpine youngster and Whitsunday Brahman’s player Braith Tetley was crowned the competition’s Under 16 Player of the Year after a successful personal campaign.

Braith has been playing the sport since Under 7s at his local club and was more than proud to have received the award at the Mackay RLMD Presentation Night.

“I was a bit shocked. I think we were all shocked – a Brahmans player has never won an award at junior level,” Braith said.

Playing at halfback, Braith led his U16s team through a season of mixed results in his second year representing in the side, and he’s certainly grown into the position according to coach Graham McDougall.

“Before a single run had been organised, or a player had registered, or even a team was organised, I knew Braith was an extraordinary young man, and a future leader,” Mr McDougall said.

“He gave me an insight into his passion for the game, his eagerness to train, and his closeness to the boys he has to play with.”

Nominations for the awards began in round 10 to 14, where each team would nominate an opposition player they’d thought had played the best.  

“Among the first to training and the last to leave every week, it is Braith’s hard work and desire that stands him out from the pack,” Mr McDougall said.

“No one in the U16 League did what Braith did this year, and it is through his hard work, dedication, and efforts that he thoroughly deserved this award.”

Braith said he was eager to move into U17s next year, and especially eager to win a grand final.

“I’d like to win a Grand Final with the team; it’s more important than a personal award. And it would be especially great in my last year of juniors,” Braith said.

“I think it would be great, after that, to play rugby league for a living.”

Braith Tetley has become one of the first Whitsunday Brahmans players to ever receive a junior award at the Mackay and District Junior Rugby League presentations

Braith was a star player for his U16s side over the season, but hopes to turn personal medals into trophies next year

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One of the region’s longest standing events returns this weekend to celebrate 80 years of bringing the Proserpine community together in a vibrant and fragrant outing.

The 80th annual Uniting Church Flower Show will begin on Saturday, September 10, exhibiting flowers, orchids, pot plants, fruit, and vegetables to herald in the spring season.

This year the event theme of ‘Butterfly Garden’ will ensure the colours pop and that the “butterflies are everywhere” for the annual event.

Flower Show committee members Bernadine Stevens and Julianne O’Brien said they were more than excited for the weekend’s festivities where the people of Proserpine are “so supportive.”

“It’s a big thing picking your flowers and organising them each year. It’s a big effort they make on our behalf,” Ms Stevens said.

Alongside its regular flower show display, the 80th anniversary will host family activities like face painting for children, fabulous entertainment, and floral art, as well as a morning tea and lunch. There’s set to be plenty of cake, biscuit, and craft stalls, too.

The event committee expects upwards of 150 floral displays across the varied categories, and attendees can look forward to a special cupcake display which honours the eight decades of Proserpine Flower Shows.

The show will also host entertainment from groups like Zumba, Out of the Blue Line Dancers, Proserpine Citizens’ Band, State School Choirs, and the Mommas and the Poppas.

What: Proserpine/Whitsunday Uniting Church Flower Show And Fete Butterfly Garden 80th Celebration

When: Saturday, 10 September from 10am to 2pm

Where: Cyclone Shelter, Sterry Street, Proserpine

Over the decades, the Proserpine Flower Show has hosted incredible displays of careful gardening and cultivating from locals, and it returns this year for its 80th outing

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A GARDEN WITH WINGS

There have been floods, droughts and cyclones but successful flower shows have continued in Proserpine for eight decades.

The Forties

In 1942, the first Presbyterian Flower Show was held in the Eldorado Theatre (now the Proserpine Pharmacy). Mrs C E Mazlin gained the highest score taking home the coveted Presbyterian Rose Bowl Trophy.

In 1949, the show was held in the Grand Theatre and the makers of Aunt Mary’s Baking Powder donated one guinea for the best sponge.

The Fifties.

Mr Eddie Gray donated a prize for the best-kept garden to encourage people to have lovely gardens.

The Sixties

One year, there was a police guard for a very valuable sapphire and an orange-coloured pear-shaped crystal in a display by Porter’s Jewellery. There was also a diamond cutting demonstration.

1961 - The Best Setting of a Table for Two for Luncheon competition was popular.

1962 – The special attraction was the spectacular orchids from Mr and Mrs H Perske - flown in from Sydney.

The Seventies.

Themes included ‘Fantasy Land’, ‘Four Season’s Fantasy’ and ‘Tiptoe through the Tulips’.

1972 - well-known floral artists, Gwyn Johns and Edna Clarke, mounted a spectacular display of Australian History called ‘Voyage of Discovery’ including a canoe with flower sails representing the ‘Endeavour’ and an ingenious combination of folded and shaped leaves depicting Sydney Opera House.

The Eighties.

Themes commemorated a ‘Salute to the Commonwealth Games’ and ‘Our Life Our Land’ which celebrated the Bicentennial and featured a huge map of Australia made with 1500 yellow and orange marigolds on the floor.

The Muller girls started the Busy Hands stall which featured for more than twenty years.

1986 - the ‘Around the World’ theme featured floral art from seven countries, the centre piece being a huge balloon globe surrounded by replicas of the nations’ flags. International food was enjoyed. Mrs Edna Clarke demonstrated microwave cookery, something new at the time.

The Nineties.

Mrs Desley Hill arranged a parade of wedding gowns for ‘Memories’ and a challenging competition “Name the Sixteen Songs” from clues hidden around the hall for the ‘Magic of Music’ theme.

Beautiful gladiolas were flown in from Brisbane one year.

The 2000s.

Kathy Bernett’s ‘Garden Centre’ was the place to buy that special plant; Susie Fraser and her Girl Guide helpers started the Sugar Shack selling sweets, drinks, cold cups and fairy floss and the Dreadnought Stall (now called Mystery Gift) was re-introduced. Sue Blair and family provided interesting activities for children.

2002 - Corned meat was served to celebrate the ‘Year of the Outback’. Other themes included ‘Enchanted Garden’ with fairies and elves and the ‘Carnival of Colours’ with Rev Leo Newel and his young helpers dressed as clowns. There was the wonderful representation of the ‘Titanic’ in flowers for the theme ‘And the Bands Played On’.

There was an airing of doll collections and of 150 Fabulous Frocks for Queensland’s 150th birthday.

The 2010s

Everyone had fun at the Garden Party in 2011 when the Floral Art ladies created the most spectacular garden.

The 70th anniversary celebrations (2012) wound through the seven decades.

Of great interest was a display of people’s collections.

During all these years, there has been some wonderful entertainment provided by local artists such as Elspeth Scotford’s Junior School Choir, the Citizens’ Band and the Proserpine State High School Band.

So, just what could the 80th flower show possibly have in store for us?

Well, just pop along to the cyclone shelter in Sterry Street on September 10 and see for yourself!

Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum.

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St Catherine’s Catholic College has come home with two first places at the annual Opti-Minds District Competition in Mackay last weekend.

The College had three teams enter and brought home the Division 3 Social Science Trophy and the Division 2 Language Literature Trophy, with students qualifying for the state titles.

West State School in Mackay hosted the event, with students from Year 6-12 representing many of the local schools.

Opti-Minds is made up of many different categories where participants have to use their imagination to solve creative problems.

Year 9 St Catherine College student Sonny Telford said Opti-Minds was a great team experience.

“Your team is given a theoretical problem and you have to come up with a solution to it,” he said.

“My favourite part was when we had to write the script for the solution, we ended up with a funny and out there fix it to the dilemma.”

Written by Junior Journo Kai Telford from St Catherine’s Catholic College

Sonny Telford, Ella Crossley, Maddison Scott-Fitzgerald, Bridget Patullo

Andie Stevens, Pippa Titley, Jolie Farley, Bella Vanderwolf, Lucy Bennett

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Workers from across the country are encouraged to ‘Pick Paradise’ with a clever new marketing campaign that entices people to choose the Whitsundays when looking for work in the agriculture and aquaculture industries.

An interactive job noticeboard, the ‘Pick Paradise’ digital platform allows farmers to advertise their positions vacant totally free of charge.

Connecting to dedicated social media pages and profiles, the platform targets specific demographics within Australia to promote diverse occupations within the sector.

Bowen Gumlu Growers Association Chief Executive Officer, Ry Collins, said it was a perfect time to reignite interest in working in our region.

“With the horticulture industry at peak production, and the mango season beginning in November, workers in the region could be guaranteed ongoing positions in a variety of roles,” he said.

“Pick Paradise also presents a new opportunity for growers to advertise upcoming positions for free on the website and then use the hashtag #pickparadise to remain connected across social media.”

Pick Paradise is a joint initiative between the Bowen Gumlu Growers Association and the Queensland Agriculture Workforce Network with funding from the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries.

Bowen Gumlu Growers Association President, Carl Walker, said he welcomed the funding from state government to continue to support growers through the workforce labour and skills shortage.

“It is vital that we continue to innovate new ways to attract workers to the region,” he said.

“Pick Paradise demonstrates the ways we can support our industry through contemporary workforce planning practices.”

The campaign was officially launched at the Merinda Hotel in Bowen earlier this month.

David Shorten (BGGA), Adelaide Belyea (BGGA), Gillian Russell (The Third House), Jenn Honnery (Green Turtle Creative).

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Hi Rachael,

I read with interest Amanda Camm’s remarks regarding the resort Islands. Having had a charter yacht in the Whitsunday area for some eight years, plus suppling many details to David Colfelt for his wonderful publication, 100 Magic Miles, The Whitsundays, I agree with her in most of her remarks, apart from one. This is where she says “If the current disrepair were happening on the mainland, no-one would allow that”

Is Amanda aware of the derelict and run down remains of Laguna Quays in her area? Has she seen it over the past several years? The place is a real disgrace.

The buildings are full of white ants, doors open and possums, snakes, cane toads etc live in them. The pool is a slimy, algal mess, the marina is blocked off to all traffic, and is so silted up, it is unusable.

Roofs on some buildings are beyond repair, the whole place is derelict, and closed down of course.

The once wonderful golf course where ‘Skins” were played with leading Australian and overseas golfers is no longer recognisable. You cannot even see where the greens once were.

Is Amanda aware of the Iwasaki Resort in Yeppoon? That is also in an advanced state of decay. It is in the same state as Laguna Quays and also closed down. Once having two fine golf courses, now there is one, with the other left to go back to nature.

Amanda, I think your comment above re mainland resorts requires a re-think, and I am hopeful you may put some time into doing something about these derelict resorts as well as the Islands.

Yours Sincerely,

Tony Allsop.

Amanda Camm’s Response

Dear Tony,

In the public hearing I raised the issue of Laguna Quays. My request for meetings with the proponent have been left with no response.

Below was my quoted transcript. I also believe there should be accountability at every level when it comes to major development whether they be islands or land-based developments.

“My view, though, is that with any level of investment by any head lessee or anyone who operates those resorts, foreign or otherwise, there should be a rigorous due diligence process. I believe there should be an accountability trigger in there if they do not uphold what they say they are going to do, and my view is that there should be a ‘use it or lose it’ clause in there as well if they cannot demonstrate why. My view on that extends to large land based island resorts. I have Laguna Quays, which sits just south, which is a foreign owned entity. I see that that same investor has delivered a great resort development in North Queensland yet has chosen to sit on this one and not do anything with it.”

The front page story that Tony refers to in his letter

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A local dad received the best Father’s Day present he could hope for: the safe arrival of his baby daughter following an eight-year journey to reach this magical moment alongside his beautiful wife.

Zane and Jess Templeman had been trying for a baby for almost a decade and welcomed their “miracle bub” Lola at the Mater Mothers’ Private Hospital in Townsville just in time for Father’s Day.

“Having Lola here makes this Father’s Day extra special,” Zane said.

“Jess has had a really tough journey and experienced some miscarriages, so Lola is definitely a special gift for us both – our little bundle of joy.”

Lola was born via an emergency caesarean one-and-a-half weeks early on August 25, weighing 3.41kg.

She went to the Special Care Nursery for a few days with fluid on her lungs but the couple said that the staff answered all their questions and kept them calm.

“I can’t speak highly enough of the nurses at Mater,” said Zane.

“The standard of care surpassed our expectations and the doctors and nursing staff were so genuinely caring.

“We are settling in now, but those first few days were a state of flux of being exhausted and bliss – Lola is starting to sleep now.”

Mater Mothers’ North Queensland Nurse and Midwifery Business Manager Rebekah Barrie said Lola was the perfect Father’s Day gift for first-time dad Zane.

“Lola is a happy and healthy baby girl and we are so glad she’s finally here,” she said.

Happy dad Zane with his baby daughter Lola

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Inviting the community to a special event which focuses on providing facts and information about property markets, PRD Whitsunday are holding an Annual Property Research Night at the Reef Gateway later this month.

Hosted by highly regarded economist Dr Diaswati Mardiasmo (Dr Asti for short), the event will present statistics and informed advice on issues such as interest rate rises, the rental market, the value of properties, employment and inflation.

The ‘R’ in PRD stands for research and Dr Asti is PRD’s Chief Economist and RBA Liaison Partner, at the forefront of all the most up to date trends in the economy and property market.

“With interest rates going up, a lot of people are panicking and when they turn on the news all they hear is doom and gloom,” said PRD Whitsunday Principal Annette Neil.

“It’s not often we get people of Dr Asti’s calibre in this area and everyone who attends will have the opportunity to ask her questions.

“Despite her profession, she doesn’t have the personality of an economist, she is very bubbly and extroverted, really good fun and engaging, so it will be a really good night.”

Everyone in the community is welcome to attend and entry is a gold coin donation which will be given to Whitsunday Housing Company to help with local housing projects.

Light finger food will be served on the night and everyone will receive a goodie bag containing informative literature.

WHAT: PRD Whitsunday Annual Property Research Night

WHERE: The Reef Gateway Hotel in Cannonvale

WHEN: Wednesday, September 21

PRD’s Chief Economist Dr Diaswati Mardiasmo is speaking at the Reef Gateway later this month

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Congratulations and welcome to our new Mayor, Julie Hall. The next few years will be as tough as the last and we wish Julie the very best in her new role. On the subject of councils, it is good to see more and more regional councils signing up for the Small Business Friendly Council Program.

The program is about encouraging councils to take a small business centred approach to services, to inspire and motivate councils with fresh ideas and know-how through the shared learnings of others in the network, and to promote and celebrate when great outcomes are made possible. The goal is to reduce barriers between council and small business to enhance the operating environment for small business. Towards this end we encourage all small businesses to share either success stories or specific issues in their dealings with Whitsunday Regional Council.

This week the minister for Employment and Small Business, Training and Skills development (The Hon Di Farmer) launched the Good People, Good Jobs Queensland Workforce strategy. More detail can be found at www.desbt.qld.gov.au but the strategy invokes a series of action plans spanning several years to address workforce participation, local solutions, school to work transitions, workforce attraction and retention and improving the skills of Queenslanders.

A wonderful program but the affordable accommodation issue needs to be addressed before any significant benefits will flow to regional areas.

Another useful little refresher tool put out by the Queensland Office of Fair Trade is the Small business self-assessment checklist. The checklist is to help Queensland small business understand and comply with their obligations under the Australian Consumer Law and has information on fundamental things like displaying prices, refund policies etc. Google "QLD OFT small business checklist" and you can download a copy

The next Chamber event in late September/early October will incorporate the AGM. If you are keen to get involved and help assist and promote small business in the region, keep an eye out for further details over the next seven days.

Allan Milostic, Whitsunday Coast Chamber of Commerce

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