“Everyone in Mackay deserves access to quality legal services,” said Member for Mackay, Nigel Dalton last Wednesday, after recently welcoming the Attorney General’s $6.1 million announcement in State and Commonwealth funding for Mackay Regional Community Legal Centre Inc.

The funding will renew the Legal Assistance Services Program contract from 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2030, providing critical stability to legal services for the Mackay community and the greater North Queensland region.

The renewed contract will enable Mackay Regional Community Legal Centre Inc. to continue offering legal assistance to individuals and families facing barriers to accessing justice, particularly those from low-income, marginalised, or disadvantaged backgrounds.

Mr Dalton emphasised the importance of quality legal services in the region, noting that the funding will ensure vital support remains available for those most vulnerable in the community.

“There are plenty of legal help lines, and I think those are great, but when you're actually talking face to face with somebody, you can actually feel the problems that they have and actually deal with them in a really personal way as opposed to just being on the phone.

“When you've got something local in Mackay able to be used by vulnerable people, from tenancy to elder abuse and domestic violence, then you can actually know that you're getting quality of service…and that's why we're supporting the Mackay Community Legal Service.

“This funding not only secures essential legal support for our community but also reinforces our commitment to ensuring that all residents have the opportunity to access justice, regardless of their circumstances.”

Mr Dalton further noted that the funding would not only benefit Mackay locals, but also those situated as far as Bowen, south of Mackay, and even those in the coalfields.

Recently, he paid Mackay Regional Community Legal Centre Inc. a visit and said that the lead solicitor was “overjoyed” by the fact that their services will continue to benefit those in the Mackay and surrounding areas.

Caption: Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton welcomed $6.1 million in State and Commonwealth funding to secure vital legal services for the region until 2030. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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The first Resource Industry Network Industry Briefing of 2025 was nothing short of exceptional, despite a few rainy hiccups and ongoing Harrup Park renovations. The energy was palpable, with a buzzing turnout that made for a vibrant and engaging atmosphere among like-minded mining professionals across Central Queensland.

Attendees shared their key takeaways at the business lunch, with highlights ranging from critical industry discussions to meaningful connections. Several noted the ongoing challenges in securing finance for projects, especially with banks' concerns about coal. Others appreciated the opportunity to meet new faces, network with fellow RIN members, and learn more about the Mackay Hospital Foundation, a cause that clearly resonates with many in the region.

Speakers were also a standout, with one attendee commenting on the exceptional detail provided in Vitrinite’s address about new ventures in high-quality metallurgical coal mining. The consensus was clear: another fantastic networking event by RIN that set a high bar for the year ahead.

A huge thank you to the February Industry Briefing sponsor, Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal, for their continued support. Stay up-to-date with RIN’s events calendar for regional business conferences and industry networking in 2025.

_Contributed by Resource Industry Network _

Caption: Resource Industry Network’s first industry briefing of 2025 set a positive tone for the year, bringing mining professionals together to discuss key challenges, new ventures, and regional connections. Photos supplied.

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Reef Catchments is working together with local partners to assist in the vegetation management of the southern end of Harbour Beach in a joint effort to stabilise the sand dunes and restore vital coastal ecosystems. This initiative, is proudly funded through the Queensland Government’s Threatened Species Recovery Action Grants program, focusing on habitat restoration and protection for endangered flora and fauna in the region, which includes our endangered migratory shorebirds and sea turtles.

The revegetation project will complement the post and rail fence installed at the southern end of East Point foredunes. Together these activities will support and improve the ecological resilience of more than 30 hectares of fish nursery habitat, including salt marshes, mangroves, turtle nesting areas, and wader bird roosting sites.

Native vegetation planting and protective measures will strengthen the resilience of the natural landscape, providing critical support for biodiversity, reducing impacts from extreme events (heatwaves and erosion) and contributing to the long-term sustainability of the degraded area.

“Commencing vegetation management at East Point is a milestone moment to improve the health and resilience of our coastal environment,” said Carlos Bueno, Senior Project Officer - Biodiversity.

“This project reflects our commitment to fostering sustainable ecosystems and protecting threatened species while collaborating closely with local partners and the broader community.”

The initiative builds upon recent efforts to protect the area, including weed management and fencing to restrict vehicle access aiming at reducing the environmental damage caused by 4x4 vehicles and motorbikes driving on the fragile foredunes. The combination of measures together aim to restore natural habitats, improve water quality, and bolster fish habitat in adjacent waterways.

Revegetation activities involve Yuwi land and sea rangers of the traditional custodians of the Mackay region, Pioneer Catchment Landcare, and conservation organisations, emphasising the power of collective action in environmental stewardship.

_Contributed By Reef Catchments _

Revegetation efforts have begun at East Point, Harbour Beach to restore coastal ecosystems, protect biodiversity, and strengthen dune resilience through native planting and habitat restoration. Photos supplied

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CANEGROWERS welcomes the State and Federal Governments’ joint decision to allow disaster recovery grants to cover replanting costs – calling it a major win for growers.

This announcement follows strong advocacy by the peak grower body, working in conjunction with the Queensland Farmers’ Federation and their commodity members.

Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett announced the initiative on the floor of the Queensland Parliament, saying: “North Queensland farmers can look forward with confidence, knowing the Crisafulli Government had their back”.

CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan called the decision “a critical step forward for growers hit hard by recent flooding.”

“Early estimates are putting crop losses in the worst-affected areas at anywhere up to one million tonnes. Recovery isn’t just about cleaning up – it’s about getting those crops back in the ground so farmers can rebuild.”

Crop losses don’t just affect this season, they impact future harvests, farm viability, the wider sugar industry, and regional communities, Mr Galligan said.

“CANEGROWERS has been pushing for this change, and we’re grateful the State and Federal Governments have come out strong in support of growers. We now urge them to roll this out quickly, with minimal red tape.

CANEGROWERS is engaged in proactive discussions around updating the definition of a primary producer and identifying further on-ground assistance needed to support recovery efforts, Mr Galligan said.

“CANEGROWERS stands ready to work with the State and Federal Governments to ensure this support delivers real benefits on the ground.”

Caption: Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett announced the initiative on the floor of the Queensland Parliament this week. Photo supplied

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At just 14 years old, Alexis Versaci is already making a significant impact in her community while pursuing her dreams. This year, she’s set to compete for two beauty pageant titles on the Gold Coast in October, and she’s not just walking the runway—she’s walking the talk when it comes to giving back. Alexis’s dedication to both her personal growth and the community around her is a shining example of how to balance ambition with altruism.

In February, Alexis is taking her commitment to others a step further by participating in the Super Swim challenge to raise funds for the Starlight Children’s Foundation. This inspiring initiative helps sick kids in hospitals across Australia, providing them with the happiness, joy, and laughter they so desperately need while facing the fear and pain of illness. Alexis is swimming 10 laps every day throughout February to raise much-needed funds for these brave kids.

"I want to make a real difference for sick kids," says Alexis.

"Every minute of every day, a child is admitted to hospital in Australia. By participating in the Super Swim, I’m hoping to raise enough funds to bring joy to these kids, and I’m grateful for every person who supports this cause."

When she’s not preparing for her pageant appearances, Alexis is volunteering her time and energy to support causes close to her heart. From working with Orange Sky, which helps the homeless, to supporting the Mackay Hospital Foundation and Chances Café, Alexis is truly committed to making a difference. Her volunteer work reflects her belief that it's not enough to simply shine in the spotlight—she’s using her platform to shine a light on those who need it most.

But Alexis doesn’t stop there. She’s also helping to shape her future as an online influencer. Through her growing presence on social media, Alexis is supporting her mother’s business, Harper Bee—the go-to shop for tweens and teens that recently moved to the heart of Mackay on the corner of Wood and Victoria streets.

To help Alexis reach her fundraising goal of $1,000 for the Starlight Foundation, you can donate at Harper Bee or Cheeky Little Monkeys, or directly through her Super Swim page at superswim.org.au/a-versaci.

Alexis's determination doesn’t just stop at fundraising—she’s on a mission to make a tangible impact in her community and beyond.

Support Alexis in her Super Swim challenge and help make a difference in the lives of sick children. Donate today and brighten a child’s tomorrow!

Caption: At just 14 years old, Alexis Versaci is already making a significant impact in her community

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Confidence is a key and powerful quality that impacts both our personal and professional lives.

While there are many definitions, a common aspect is that confidence is a belief in oneself, the conviction that you have the ability to meet life’s challenges and to succeed and act accordingly. The add on is that being confident requires a realistic assessment of our capabilities.

Confidence was named by Forbes to be one of the top three characteristics that employers are looking for in prospective employees. So working on confidence is a valuable career investment.

For those with the negative self-talk creeping in saying ‘I’m not confident’ – the good news is that confidence can be developed. It requires the willingness to build your capabilities and hone your skills, and practice, practice, practice. And get comfortable with being uncomfortable.

Here are some practical tips to grow your confidence with a focus on the workplace setting.

Take small steps and set small achievable goals

Take small risks; identify the ‘thing’ you want to be confident in or about and focus on that (e.g. delivering a presentation; providing input in meetings, meeting people). As you build your confidence in one area, it will boost your confidence to conquer other challenges.

Take action and do

Take and make opportunities, e.g. to deliver a presentation – until you tackle the task, it’s difficult to grow your confidence.

Prepare thoroughly

Confidence grows with capability – whether it’s a presentation, or other task, preparation helps reduce uncertainty and boosts your confidence in your abilities. Practice, practice, practice so you are as ready as possible – this is in your control.

Program your confidence

As you are building your confidence – act confident. The contexts in which you want to be confident are not necessarily marathons – e.g. for the duration of the meeting (e.g. 1 hour) demonstrate the confidence type behaviours including your body language and posture - it will trick your brain into feeling more self-assured (and of course being prepared is a game changer).

Practice consistency

The more you work on it, the more confident you will become, even if progress seems slow at times. Keep a list of your achievements and compliments to revisit when self-doubt begins to intrude.

Engage in positive self-talk

Change your own narrative from e.g. I can’t do this to I’ll give it my best.

Build your cheer squad

Surround yourself with people who are uplifting and encourage your growth and provide constructive feedback; their belief will boost your self-belief. Avoid those who sap your positive energy and feed your insecurities.

The path to mastery of any skill is not always smooth so above all, treat yourself with kindness and patience, as things don’t always go to plan. Confidence is not about being perfect; it’s about having the self-belief to focus on your strengths to overcome obstacles and persevere to achieve your goals.

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QCAR is moving at its usual rapid pace on the QCAR integration with the Australian Cane Farmers Association (ACFA) front.

As we have been saying, this is bringing two pro-active organisations who are, and will continue to, deliver a powerful and passionate voice for representation and advocacy for all sugarcane farmers and their industry.

The super drivers behind the integration, the QCAR Board, had a vision to provide even more benefits and services across their ever-growing representative footprint through its local, on-the-ground district managers and local committees.

And so it comes to fruition bringing the local, state, and federal representation of QCAR to new heights via the long-standing and respected organisation ACFA.

The QCAR Central District team has been contacting all ACFA members throughout the regions of Proserpine, Mackay, and Plane Creek in recent weeks to activate their dual membership.

One of the key messages from QCAR is that the dual membership comes at no additional cost – a win-win for all members with the additional advantages.

The current transitional period is expected to be finalised in 2025.

QCAR will soon be holding elections to establish the chairman, deputy chairman and committee members for each regional district, including QCAR Central.

Each district will then nominate the committee member/s they want to represent them on the QCAR Board. After that, the QCAR Board will select representatives to sit on the ACFA Board.

To make sure your vote counts in these upcoming elections, you will need to be registered as a QCAR member either by a new membership, in which you automatically become a member of both, or for ACFA members a simple one-pager taking up the offer of the dual membership. Easy peasy.

All our valued ACFA members – if you have not yet received a letter explaining the integration, please get in touch.

If you have any questions regarding the integration or how to take up the dual membership for QCAR – ACFA, please call:

QCAR Central District Manager Sonia Ball 0467 573 321 or email Sonia.ball@qcar.com.au

QCAR Central District Committee Chairman Steve McKeering 0439 088 654

QCAR Head Office: 4783 2111

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TIME TO TALK?

Our far northern counterparts and Burdekin neighbours are in our thoughts as flood waters reside, cleaning up continues and damage assessed. While we have fared far better in our Central District, we are reminded that problems can sometimes seem insurmountable and long-lasting, and we may need to check in with our family and friends.

Going through a crisis or disaster can have significant impacts on our mental health, but sometimes it is the myriad of little things that build up over time and can play on our minds. It could be anything from financial, family and relationships to work, disaster, or illness.

It is important to remember that regardless of how big or small the issue is, the impact is wearing and tiring. Talking to someone can help.

Times are tough and sometimes it helps to talk. Whether you call someone, or whether someone call you – you will find that sharing often helps.

Please see our list of some suggestions of where you can find someone who can help. Stay safe and be kind to each other – QCAR Central District.

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Yvette Morgan is a beautiful and brave Bowen-based mum who is running out of time with her family and we are in a position to help her. Yvette is a cherished mother of three, a much-loved teaching assistant and a valued member of the Merinda community, who has been diagnosed with aggressive, stage 4 cancer. Her close friend, Carla Adams, has organised a GoFundMe to help the family and anything we can give counts towards more time for Yvette. So far, a game-changing $35K has kindly been donated, but organisers say they are aiming for a further $15K which will enable half of Yvette’s medical bills to be paid.

Yvette was given the ‘all clear’ a couple of years ago after breast cancer treatment while six-months pregnant with her daughter Safyre. But just early this year, she had excruciating back pain and went to the hospital where they found that cancer had come back, in her spine, sternum, left ribs, lungs and lymph nodes in her chest. With limited treatment options in Australia, Yvette and her husband Luke, flew to Mexico to undergo intensive and tailored treatments and protocols at the Hope4Cancer clinic.  Which everyone hopes will give her body a fighting chance against the cancer.

"If my body can turn on me like this so quickly, then I should be able to turn it back around," says Yvette, who is now halfway through her treatment program. Yvette and her family are incredibly grateful for the outpouring of support, which has not only provided financial assistance but also lifted her spirits.

“For a young family, the financial reality of taking out an immediate loan to cover a $100K treatment is the 'added stressor' that we are able to reduce, so the goal is $50K, to help offset at least half of what it will cost the Morgans.”

Many of the schools where Yvette has worked as an aid have held raffles and events to raise the funds. Crazy Sock Days and Bingo Nights where everyone could get involved and donate, with 100% going to the GoFundMe to support Yvette and her family.

One of her colleges, Sarah Groves, has been working with others to help raise $15K by hosting events.

“I'm just amazed, how amazing the community is and how everyone's just getting behind them. Some people don't even know them, but they choose to help. Their story is one that could happen to anyone,” shared Sarah.

Yvette is tired, in constant pain from the tumours, but she absolutely knows how much her and her family are loved.

“I am deeply moved, and incredibly appreciative of the generosity and support you’ve shown in helping raise funds for my treatment,” she expressed.

“Your contributions have not only provided the medical care I desperately need, but have also given me hope and strength to keep fighting.”

Just over halfway towards the goal of $50K, organisers of the GoFundMe page say that whether you have known Yvette for a short time, a long time, or are just now learning her story now, your donations will make a real difference. Yvette’s husband Luke, and their children Tully, Llewyn, Safyre need her to stay with them.

Scan the QR Code, that will take you to the GoFundMe page for Yvette, and thank you for anything you can give to support her and her family.

Caption 1: Yvette and her daughter Safyre. Photo Sourced: Carla Adams’ GoFundMe for Yvette’s family

Caption 2: Yvette and her family. Photo Sourced: Carla Adams’ GoFundMe for Yvette’s family

Caption 3: Yvette and her doctors at the Hope4Cancer centre smiling. Photo Sourced: Carla Adams’ GoFundMe for Yvette’s family

Caption 4: All Yvette’s school work colleges participating in Crazy Sock Day. Photo Sourced: Carla Adams’ GoFundMe for Yvette’s family

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Hello wonderful readers!

You may have seen my name popping up in the paper or noticed me running about Airlie Beach, Bowen and Proserpine over past month, so it’s about time I properly said hello and a big thank you for welcoming me to the wonderful (and wet) Whitsundays.

I’m from Brisbane city and I was so happy to find out the night-life here is just as popping as back home. Even with the non-stop rain, every guitar and their master is out playing the pub crowds and keeping the spirit of Airlie Beach going strong.

When I moved here, I made sure my little 4WD could handle the haul. I drove the long 1100km over two days by myself with two packs of petrol station lollies, a phone that would drop out every half hour and all the weird local radio shows that I could tune into as I passed by small towns, on that long highway to keep me in good company.

I was super keen to start working with the newspaper and am enjoying it immensely, even with the on and off weather. Why, the other day I got soaked taking photos for the cruise ship Diamond Princess’s maiden call to Airlie, only for the sun to come out 5 minutes later, blue sky and all!

While I’m still learning the ropes of being a journalist, if you see me about town with a camera or notepad say hello! Always happy to chat about the goings-on of the Whitsundays and to meet new people. Thanks for having me and enjoy the paper, might even go do the sudoku myself, love a good puzzle.

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After all the wet weather, one local decided to help out and keep the pathways safe for its users. An avid scenic stroller and weekly Park Runner, one man noticed how a section of the course had become dangerous with debris and overhanging branches due to the stormy winds.

With the Whitsunday Council busy, focusing on more immediate flood and rainy weather damage like filling pot-holes and making the roads safe, he knew it would be a while until they turned their attention to this part of the Marina. So, he brought his own gardening tools down to the walkway and pruned along the edge, making it safer for those using such a busy pathway.

“The walkway was covered with leaves, and there were branches overhanging and all sorts of other bits and pieces that get in the way of the people on bikes, walking dogs, drinking their cappuccinos, enjoying a croissant and all of that. So, I decided to take it upon myself with my gardening tools, just to prune up the side of the bushes along the path, so everyone can enjoy walking here safely.”

Thank you for thinking of your community and making a busy thoroughfare cleaner and safer for all its users.

Caption: The greenery now cut back along the busy path. Photo Credit: Victoria Velton.

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In the last week, politicians have been heading to the Bowen Orbital Spaceport for a close-up look at the magnificent Eris1 Rocket, which now stands proudly on the launch pad, almost ready for take-off.

In breaking news on February 19th from the ADM Space Summit in Canberra, Gilmour Space CEO unveiled a major milestone for the company:

"Gilmour Space has received the required airspace management approvals from CASA for Eris #Testflight1—a crucial step in our journey toward space. We are one step closer to launching and will be announcing the ‘No Earlier Than’ (NET) launch date/window soon," said the CEO.

Prior to this announcement, Mayor Ry Collins visited the site and was reminiscent of the journey it had taken for Gilmour Space to get to this point:

“It’s a surreal moment when I think back to standing on this very site five years ago—back when it was just a cow paddock.

“Former Mayor and now Federal Member Andrew Willcox MP, James and Adam Gilmour, and their team were dreaming big.

“And now, those dreams are turning into reality.”

“Standing beside this four-storey rocket, the gravity of this development—both for Gilmour Space Technologies and for the entire Whitsunday region—truly hits home.

“This isn’t just about one launch. It’s about an entirely new industry being established right here in Bowen. Planning is already underway for launches two, three, and beyond, ensuring a future filled with cutting-edge aerospace advancements.”

Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, also visited Eris 1 and expressed his excitement for the impending launch.

“Eris 1 is vertical, we are one step closer to a giant mission,” Andrew Willcox, MP stated.

“The technicians are putting the nozzles on the bottom end of the rocket.

“I can’t wait to see this bad boy blast off!”

Beyond the technological marvel, the economic impact on the Whitsunday region is enormous. The Bowen Orbital Spaceport is already injecting millions of dollars into the Whitsundays economy—creating jobs, attracting investment, and positioning Bowen as a key player in Australia’s space industry.

The ripple effects of this project will be felt for years, with opportunities for local businesses, training programs for young professionals, and a boost in tourism as people from across the country and the world take an interest in Bowen’s role in space exploration.

Mayor Ry Collins explains how this isn’t the only good news for Bowen. The Bowen Foreshore Masterplan is set to transform the waterfront into an even more vibrant hub for locals and visitors alike. With improved facilities, enhanced public spaces, and a focus on tourism, this development will strengthen Bowen’s reputation as a premier coastal destination.

Adding to this momentum is the much-anticipated $68 million Bowen Jetty project funded by $50 million from the Queensland Government and $18 million from the government-owned port authority North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP).

As one of Bowen’s iconic landmarks, Mayor Ry Collins states that these improvements will not only preserve an important piece of our history but also enhance its usability for locals, tourists, and fishing enthusiasts. Together, these projects form part of our broader vision to ensure Bowen continues to thrive as a key economic and lifestyle hub in North Queensland.

“A huge thank you to Michelle Gilmour and the entire Gilmour Space Technologies team for your hospitality and insight during the tour of the facility,” Mayor Ry Collins stated.

“The excitement is truly building, and I know I’m not alone in saying that Bowen is ready for lift-off!”

1: Mayor Ry Collins with his wife Mel during the tour of the Spaceport

2: Andrew Willcox standing in front of Eris 1

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In January, the Whitsunday Coast Airport officially reached the big 50,000 in passengers for the first time ever. With direct flights to Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, and Cairns, along with more routes in the works, the Whitsundays is more connected than ever and Airport guru Craig Turner said his team was thrilled to deliver record numbers through the terminal.

“We are just getting started so buckle up, Whitsundays, the journey is just beginning!” exclaimed Craig.

"With over 50,000 passengers in a single month and more flight routes in the pipeline, the future of the Whitsundays has never looked brighter.”

“This milestone is just the start – our airport team are committed to building on this success and ensuring our region remains one of the most connected and popular destinations in Australia."

That’s 50,000 travellers soaring in and out of this beautiful region, exploring our paradise, thriving alongside locals and boosting our booming tourism industry. Mayor Ry Collins said this milestone is a testament to the incredible growth of our region and the demand for the Whitsundays as a world-class destination.

“This directly supports local jobs, drives investment, and strengthens our economy," said Mr Collins.

“More visitors coming through Whitsunday Coast Airport means more people staying in our hotels, dining in our restaurants, booking tours, and shopping with our local businesses.”

Here’s to more records being set this year, and the question begs – Where will you be flying next?

Caption: All the Whitsunday Coast Airport staff celebrating the record. Photo Credit: Greg Martin

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On a routine lawn mowing session using a ride-on mower, a Whitsunday local experienced a stinging sensation in their ankle, which was initially dismissed as a minor irritation, similar to a bee or wasp sting. Upon inspection, however, they saw two small red bite marks roughly 10mm apart, leading them to believe they had been bitten by a snake.

Despite not seeing a snake and feeling no immediate pain, they called 000 and then posted on local Snakes of the Whitsundays chat site to see if anyone could identify the snake by the bite. They were overwhelmed with supportive responses, and continued posting the saga to keep everyone updated.

Transported down to Mackay in an ambulance, it was later determined that the bite was likely from a non-venomous snake or a ‘dry bite’, based on the lack of envenomated symptoms. The individual did not experience signs of a venomous bite, such as drooping eyelids, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, or prolonged blood clotting times. Medical professionals at the hospital monitored the them for several hours, conducting multiple blood tests to ensure that venom had not entered the bloodstream and the bite site was bandaged and splinted for roughly seven hours as a precaution.

The individual did, however, experience severe pain and the medical teams treated the situation with caution, as snake bites can vary greatly in severity, and complications may arise from both venomous and non-venomous bites. The patient was eventually cleared to leave Mackay Hospital after 12 hours of monitoring. The lack of immediate severe symptoms did not eliminate the need for close observation, as anti-venom treatments can have serious side effects and are only administered when absolutely necessary.

Join the Facebook page: Snakes of the Whitsundays, for identification and advice about snakes in the area and attend one of their Snake Education and Safety Community Programs to learn more about safe snake habits.

If you suspect you have been bitten by a snake, immediately call 000.

Caption: The bite marks of the snake. Photo Sourced: Snakes of the Whitsunday Facebook Page

Caption: The bite victim with their leg bandaged and in a splint. Photo Sourced: Snakes of the Whitsunday Facebook Page

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The ms Zuiderdam has made its first stop in Airlie Beach last Sunday, marking another on the list of great ships for this beautiful port of call. Cruisers from the Zuiderdam got to experience Airlie in the tropical, humid heat and sunshine by arriving just after the torrential rain we had.

Guests flocked to the local markets, went on tour flights or boat trips, and even many of the crew who could get aboard the tender to shore visited our famed lagoon. With Babak Shaghaghi the Staff Captain of the cruise liner himself looking forward to having a dip in the waters.

“For our guests, apparently it is one of the most favourite places to be. Because as soon as we arrived, we had a queue on board. Everybody was trying to go on shore and by 10 o'clock, we had a thousand people already off the ship. This is a beautiful place to see. It's my first time here, and we're going to go discover it now.” said Mr. Shaghaghi.

The ms Zuiderdam is currently on her 56 days, one-way from Fort Lauderdale in Florida, U.S.A. to Singapore. With Airlie Beach being its 16th stop and 3rd stop in Australia as she travels northwards. Renee Branton-brown the General Manager of Cruise Whitsundays notes just how great a tourist stop for the cruise industry Airlie is becoming.

"The increased cruise ship visitation to the Whitsundays is a positive catalyst for growth. With every vessel that arrives, we’re not only welcoming travellers, but also supporting local businesses, creating jobs, and elevating the reputation of this unique paradise on the world stage,” said Renee Branton-brown, General Manager of Cruise Whitsundays.

“What’s even more exciting is the potential for returning visitation — guests who experience the beauty and charm of the Whitsundays during their cruise often return for extended stays, contributing to long-term tourism growth and helping us build lasting relationships with visitors.”

As we wave farewell to the Zuiderdam, we can thank her and her guest for boosting our local economy and bringing some fun new faces to the area, even if only for a brief moment, she was a grand sight to see on our waters.

Caption: Babak Shaghaghi (Staff Captain), Pam Rusin of Cruise Whitsundays (Cruise Ship Support), Enache Bisanti (Bridge Manager), and Rigo Acevedo (Public Health Officer) standing by the Zuiderdam tender vessel. Photo Credit: Victoria Velton.

Caption: Babak Shaghaghi and Pam Rusin exchanging a ceremonial plate and certification for the ms Zuiderdams maiden call to the Port of Airlie. Photo Credit: Victoria Velton.

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The good folks at the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre would like to remind all the locals that they're here to help those in need. If you are struggling to afford enough food to feed your family, you can go to the Centre and find out what pantry packs are available.

Partnering with Coles and Woolworths, the Centre has been able to put together bargain grocery options. The packs include items such as cereal, rice, pasta, milk, juice, canned foodstuffs, snacks, and bread to help bulk out your pantry with shelf staples. For specific dietary requirements, there are vegetarian, gluten, and lactose-free pack options available too.

These packs retail for $60, but the Neighbourhood Centre is giving them out for the low price of $15. Every $15 raised by purchasing one of these grocery packs goes straight back into the program to source more packs for other locals in crisis. Packs vary on grocery availability and donations, so it's different every time. It’s a great way to try out new recipes with the ingredients you get and spice up family mealtimes.

The Centre also runs a local fruit and vegetable distribution service for anyone who has bumper crops or plentiful harvests. If you have excess and want to give back to the community, you can donate your stock to the Neighbourhood centre.

The $15 pantry program is open to all. It is not means-tested, just subject to grocery availability, so anyone can apply to have a pack for their family. Get in touch today by filling out an online form, calling at 07 4946 7850, or visiting at 14-20 Hazelwood Crescent, in Cannonvale.

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