A major investigation involving the seizure of drugs, cash and weapons was closed this week by detectives from the Mackay Tactical Operations Team.

Operation ‘Tango Muscatel’ commenced in November 2021 focusing on the trafficking of methylamphetamine, MDMA and cannabis in the Mackay District.

The operation involved police from the Mackay district, officers from specialist sections of the Queensland Police Service and assistance from Australian Border Force.

During the operation investigators identified a criminal network, reaching from Brisbane to Mackay, involved in the supply and trafficking of dangerous drugs.

Investigators employed numerous covert and overt strategies to dismantle and disrupt this identified criminal network.

Investigators located and seized illegal drugs including 150grams of methylamphetamine, 2kg of cannabis, 83 cannabis plants, 13g of cocaine, quantities of LSD, MDMA and steroids.

The total street value of the drugs seized is estimated at $425,000.

“It’s not so much, necessarily, about what we seize on a particular day or throughout the course of the operation,” said Detective Senior Sergeant Chris Eaton.

“Whilst we seized a significant quantity of drugs, we also will allege that these persons had been trafficking and supplying a lot more than what was seized on the particular closure dates.”

Police also seized several weapons including handguns, rifles and shotguns.

“Any person in possession of illegal firearms, particularly those who have alleged to be involved in drug crime, is always important to us,” said Senior Sergeant Eaton.

Investigators seized over $200,000 in cash during the operation.

“Like always, it’s not just the drugs,” said Senior Sergeant Eaton.

“We know that drugs are often the root cause behind armed robberies, home invasions and even all the way down to break and enters, so it’s not just the drug network that we’re targeting, it also has a flow on effect into serious violent crime as well as property crime.”

On August 8, 9 and 10 officers arrested the alleged main targets of this operation through a series of raids conducted across the Mackay District.

On August 10, investigators executed a search warrant at a Habana address and located and seized five cannabis plants and equipment for drug production.

During the operation, 52 people were charged with a total of 239 offences.

“Operation ‘Tango Muscatel’ re-enforces that Queensland police will continue to target people involved in the distribution of dangerous drugs, particularly those in organised criminal networks

‍Five cannabis plants and equipment for drug production were seized from Habana address on August 10. Photo supplied: Queensland Police

Detective Senior Sergeant Chris Eaton says Queensland police will continue to target people involved in the distribution of dangerous drugs. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

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Blokes on bikes and a broken ballerina. It’s an unlikely partnership but one which warms the heart.

The Sons of the Southern Cross CQ Chapter donated $2,500 to Jules Thompson, founder of Broken Ballerina Inc., to enable her to continue supporting women and children fleeing from domestic violence.

Club member Geoff Wells said it’s in the club’s charter to donate to charity, so the bikes get shined and primed, ready to roll to raise much-needed funds to support local causes.

“We try to pick local charities, especially the ones that don’t receive a lot of Government funding, and ones we can see make a difference in the community,” Mr Wells said.

“We had heard about Broken Ballerina and thought it was a good local cause to support. We also donate to RACQ CQ Rescue and the Mackay Hospital Foundation.”

Ms Thompson said that the incidences of domestic violence and people coming forward for help is increasing.

“The situation is escalating, it’s daily we’re receiving messages for help,” Ms Thompson said.

Clubs And Community Keeping Broken Ballerina Alive

Jules Thompson from Broken Ballerina received a cheque from the Sons of the Southern Cross CQ Chapter. Photo: Amanda Wright

“We’re getting busier, the honest truth is that other services in Mackay simply do not provide what we do, yet we don’t receive government funding.

“We need money to keep going. People can’t go and do a grocery shop with a $10 voucher that they get elsewhere,” she added.

“Clubs like this, the Sons of the Southern Cross, who are amazing, it’s the community that is keeping Broken Ballerina alive.”

Ms Thompson said that ice is continuing to be a major problem in the escalating cases of domestic and family violence.

“It’s an epidemic,” she said.

“Ice and alcohol are the major recurring themes in many domestic violence cases.

“It’s mind altering.

“My father was the nicest, most charming man when he was sober. Too much alcohol and he was violent, a very scary man.”

She said that women and children fleeing domestic violence need immediate help, otherwise they are at risk of returning to their perpetrator.

“The pressure is on us to help women and children when they need help the most, and that’s immediately after they’ve left domestic, family or sexual violence,” Ms Thompson said.

“If they have nowhere to turn, the only option many of them face is to go back to their perpetrator, and that’s what we don’t want to see happen.

“That’s what we are trying to stop, is the cycle, to help them break the cycle.

“We simply couldn’t help these people if it weren’t for clubs like the Sons of the Southern Cross, the reality is we need money to help these people to break the cycle.”

Mr Wells said that their club members get a kick out of supporting causes like Broken Ballerina.

“We’re a social motorcycle club. Just a bunch of blokes who like to ride their bikes. We combine this with raising money for charity,” he said.

The club held a bike, car and 4WD show in June, to raise funds for Broken Ballerina.

“$750 was donated by other people who wanted to contribute with the remaining $1,750 made up from proceeds from the show,” Mr Wells said.

“We did a toy run last year for the Mackay Hospital Foundation. We delivered close to 150 toys for the kids and donated money for a children’s bed and bed chair so a parent can sleep in the chair next to the kid’s bed.”

The club has its Poker Run coming up on September 17, where proceeds will again go to Broken Ballerina.

It kicks off at the Harley Davidson store in Mackay, and travels throughout the countryside, to the Kuttabul Pub, Eton Pub, the Kickstart Saloon then back to Handlebar Heaven, the club’s headquarters.

Each person received a card at each destination. Back at the headquarters, the people with the best and worst hands of poker win prizes.

While the Sons of the Southern Cross is a social club, riders do wear patches which Mr Wells said the club takes as a serious responsibility.

“We have permission to wear our patch and we don’t take that lightly, so we are careful about who we bring into the club,” he said.

“It’s like any circle of friends. We don’t want people wearing our patch and causing trouble.

“But if people are interested in joining, it doesn’t matter the make of the bike, you just have to be a good person and enjoy riding.

“Come down to meet us at the clubhouse on a Friday night and check out our Facebook Page, Sons of the Southern Cross CQ Chapter to find out what we’re about.”

‍Jules and Pete Thompson from Broken Ballerina thanked the Sons of the Southern Cross CQ Chapter for their support of Broken Ballerina through fundraising events.

Thompson from Broken Ballerina received a cheque from the Sons of the Southern Cross CQ Chapter.

Photo: Amanda Wright

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Tuesday started with a great win to club stalwart Rhonda Lloyd, whom led her team of Robin Brown and Doreen Euers to a runaway win.

Wednesday afternoon bowls again saw a one-sided win, this time led by skipper Ladda Puride with Michael Jacometti and Mario De Martini.

The side were far too strong for the rest of the field

Wednesday night’s Business House Bowls completed Round Four with wins to Whitsunday Gold A coffee, Woolies Allsorts, Tuk Tuks, and PRD.

PRD had their fourth win, leading the field on 12 points.

The school finals competition will be held on Friday September 2 at 4pm. All welcome to view our young talented teams of boys and girls.

Friday afternoon in front of a huge crowd saw the Mens A Grade singles final: Russell Jackson against Manny Isgro.

Manny proved too strong. Australian cricket had Don Bradman and ABBC has Manny Isgro.

This week was the end for Ladies Triples, with a last bowl win to skipper Elaine Kippen.

Saturday morning scroungers saw first round winners John Askew, Colleen Raines, Andy McDougall, and Rick Galea with Rick brilliantly winning the final in a strong return to form .

Sunday afternoon’s social bowls saw 20 players contest the prize with Keith Bates as skipper guiding his team of lead Elaine Hadlow and Michael Jacometti coming home the victors.

Finally, the Spring Fling Celebration on Monday requires more teams. Contact Margo Stanley on 0412 469 989 to sign up.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

Club champion Manny Isgro with Club President Peter Barratt, and Russell Jackson

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Next weekend will see its second-ever Mackay and Whitsunday Professional Bull Riders (PBR) event buck to life at The Bull Pit – a brand new $2.6 million dollar venue near Midge Point.

Hosted by Dittmann Bucking Bulls – a family-owned business founded in Bloomsbury by Jason and Kelly Dittmann – the PBR Bull Pit Bull Bash 2022 is bringing some of the country’s top bull riders to north Queensland.

With an express-built venue for the purpose of large-scale bull riding and bucking events, the Bull Pit will host not just extreme talent, but extreme excitement.

Starting at 2.00pm on Saturday, August 27, live bull riding, a DJ throughout the day, food vendors, a side show alley, stall holders, kids jumping castles, slides, and camping will turn the small town into a bustling hive.

It will be the second high-quality rodeo-style event Team Dittmann have run in as many years – although they’ve run smaller Rodeos at the Bloomsbury facility in between - a “world class rodeo facility” crafted as part of Jason’s “long-time dream.”

Owner of Dittmann Bucking Bulls, Jason Dittmann, whose family has cultivated a pedigree in bull breeding as one of the country’s top breeders - said it’s been a revelation to see people flock through the gates, seeing his own famous bulls on home soil.

“That’s been my dream, my goal for a long time. When spectators come to this event, I want them to walk out of these gates saying I’ve been to the best bull rider in Australia. That’s what I’m here for,” Jason said.

“I said, dreams do come true if you put in the hard yards to get it.”

The PBR Event begins at 5.00pm with Mini Bulls and Rising Stars before a start at 7.00pm for the PBR Main Rodeo.

What: Inaugural PBR Bull Pit Bash 2022

When: Saturday, August 27 from 2.00pm to midnight

Where: The Bull Pit, 145 Midge Point Road, Bloomsbury

The Bull Pit in Bloomsbury, a $2.6 million dollar, world-class facility will host a Professional Bull Riders event next weekend

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Straight off the back of the Airlie Beach Race Week, the Hamilton Island equivalent is due to set sail this weekend after a two-year hiatus.

Known as Australia largest offshore keel boat regatta, this is the 36th Hamilton Island Race Week and organisers say that this year’s fleet is at capacity with 224 boasts registered and over 2000 sailors, family and friends joining the festivities.

Hamilton Island CEO Peter Brulisauer said they are looking forward to welcoming back the sailing fraternity for some great competition and camaraderie on and off the water.

“This year Hamilton Island will also play host to the Australian Yachting Championships which is the sport’s national authority-sanctioned series and 52 of the 225 entrants have signed up for this prestigious event which will run in conjunction with the Hamilton Island Race Week Rating Class,” he said.

“The Race Week social calendar is as varied as the offshore action, with highlights including a Paspaley luncheon at qualia and a series of exclusive lunches and dinners across the island with visiting top chefs Peter Gilmore, Paul Carmichael, Analiese Gregory and Will Cowper.”

WHAT: Hamilton Island Race Week

WHEN: 20-27 August

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Imagine yourself sailing across the tropical blue waters of the Whitsunday Islands onboard your own exclusively skippered yacht surrounded by only your closest family and friends. Wings Sailing Charters Whitsundays offer the opportunity to explore the Whitsundays through a unique lens, with all-inclusive, private skippered charters giving you the private Great Barrier Reef experience you’ve always dreamed of.

The Wings fleet is made up of two impressive catamarans custom-built for comfort and adventure. The 50ft and 60ft fully air-conditioned sailing catamarans are spacious and stable with plenty of deck space to relax and bask in the vast beauty of the Whitsunday Islands. They’re available for private charter for anything from a two-hour sunset cruise to a five-day-four-night holiday adventure.

From your personalised initial enquiry all the way through to your selected charter and beyond, the Wings Sailing team will work with you to ensure you have the best event or holiday and exceed all your expectations. Overnight charters are an all-inclusive experience where everything is taken care of from all meals, refrigeration for all your BYO drinks, BBQ, beach toys, fishing and snorkel gear and kayaks. Marine Park fees, taxes, fuel and cleaning fees are all also included, so when Wings Sailing say all-inclusive, they mean all-inclusive. With comfortable bedding, private cabins and modern bathroom facilities, you can have your very own 5-star experience on these luxury floating hotels.

Family Get Togethers

A family charter creates amazing memories with your nearest and dearest. Whether it be for a special family reunion or birthday party, children and family of all generations are welcome onboard. Spend one, two, three or even four nights discovering the natural wonders of The Whitsundays paradise. Small groups up to 10 passengers and rates for 11-19 guests overnight.

Romantic Getaways

Imagine a backdrop of the twinkling Coral Sea to create the most captivating romantic setting for everything from the most magical proposal, intimate sunset sail or spectacular wedding day with 360 degree views of the Whitsundays. Wings can create a personalised charter working closely with you to help plan one of the most special moments of your life.

Personalised Parties

Suitable for up to 29 people, Wings has the spacious decks, foredeck netting and multiple seating areas for everyone onboard to relax in comfort. With features like the foredeck jacuzzi, back deck blue light swimming enclosure, top sundeck, three zoned Premium Spotify, night disco lights and delicious BBQ dinner, it is easy to see why this party boat is a class above. From hens and bucks night right through to milestone birthday celebrations and reunions.

Spacious deck area and private swimming enclosure included

Say ‘I Do’ aboard Wings

Slip into the jacuzzi with an ice-cold beverage in-hand

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What might seem strange to some is tradition to others, none more so than the Collinsville Bacon Busters wild pig hunting competition which kicks into gear for its eighth annual outing this weekend.

“Back, bigger and better than ever” the Bacon Buster will return on Saturday, August 20 at Collinsville Football Grounds, welcoming hundreds to take part in its celebration of community, as well as its eradication of wild pigs.

More than 200 entrants signed up last year for what is the town’s biggest annual event – clearing five tonnes of wild pig from the surrounding area over a three-day period.

Although centred around pig hunting, the three day event, which includes the Bacon Busters weigh in, is flanked by others: live musical entertainment, food vans, touch football, carnival rides, a licenced bar and market stalls, dog jumping, ute and “Iron Man” competitions, as well as car and bike shows.

It has in the past drawn odd looks and ire from animal activists - but organisers are steadfast that the event is an excellent one for the small town. A claim backed by Whitsunday Regional Councillors, who also note the event’s environmental importance: culling an invasive pest.

Previously, Bacon Busters has supported charities like Rural Aid and Aussie Farmers, and in 2022 they are proudly fundraising for RACQ CQ Rescue.

Organisers say it has “wider benefits for the community of Collinsville” by “uniting as well as reinvigorating [Collinsville’s] community with a sense of purpose, pride and well-being.”

What: Collinsville Bacon Busters

Where: Collinsville Football Club

When: Saturday, August 20

One of the region’s much-loved events is back this weekend: Collinsville Bacon Busters

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The fourth annual Don River Dash will blast across the riverbed in early September with buggies, trophy trucks, side by sides and motorcycles smashing and skidding through sand and dirt.

With less than a month before the famed Bowen event, prep is well underway as organisers set up for one of the “best offroad races on the East Coast” on September 9 to 11.

Last year the famed two-day Bowen event hit record entries for its race across the river, and organisers said it’s already topped the 2021 iteration, with over 200 bike entries and 110 car entries.

Don River Dash Event Secretary, Wanita Sparr said the Motorbikes and Off-road vehicles were all eagerly awaiting their chance to fight for the title of King of the River.

“My understanding is that [the Dash this year] sold faster in the first 24 hours than any other offroad race on Rider.net,” Ms Sparr said.

“We’ve been setting up over the past two weekends, and the Don was packed already with people getting race fit – there’s excitement in the air!”

Starting at the Bowen Showgrounds, the buggies will kick on in the morning before motorcycles shoot off in the afternoon, each completing three laps per day of the 51.4km course, for a total of 300km.

“The track is ever-changing; the river changes and that’s the part that gets the competitors excited,” Ms Sparr said.

“This year’s extra point of difference is more cars, more bikes. And more equals more excitement. Come along Friday night, we’ll have scrutineering, live music, a chance to meet the pros, and plenty of dancing.”

What: Don River Dash

When: September 9 until September 11

Where: Don River, Bowen

One of “The best offroad races on the East Coast” is back with the Don River Dash in less than a months’ time

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One of the most lucrative locations in Airlie Beach is now for sale following the announcement this week that Airlie Summit is ready for development with construction expected to commence in mid-2023.

The highest zoned piece of real estate in town, this 89-lot subdivision boasts 180-degree views of the bay from the most aerial aspect with the most highly sought-after views.

Explore Property Whitsunday have the honour of acting as the lead sales agent for the development and Principal Steve Marks says he has already received significant interest.

“I’m personally excited to see the next chapter in this amazing development,” Mr Marks said.

“I have a long history of involvement with the site, being the original selling agent for the first stage over 12 years ago and each stage since.”

Gold Coast based developer Alder Developments, alongside the company’s construction division Alder Constructions officially marked the start of construction on-site with a sod turning ceremony earlier this week.

“Alder Developments has re-invigorated the plans for Airlie Summit which is the last significant master-planned estate in Airlie Beach,” Mr Marks said.

“We have been inundated with enquiries since Alder’s plans were unveiled to the market, indicating there is significant pent-up demand for prestige land in Airlie.

“This is the final major subdivision site in Airlie’s freehold land market and astute buyers recognise that this is an opportunity never to be repeated.”

Alder Developments general manager Greg Tupicoff said each block has been carefully considered to make the most of its natural attributes to create a unique master-planned community where like-minded neighbours can enjoy a rare and incredible location.

“We intend to maximise the views that expand to almost 180 degrees stretching from Pioneer Point in the Whitsunday Islands to the Coral Sea Marina, Pigeon Island and beyond, and overlooking the town of Airlie Beach and the bay,” he said.

“Beyond the views, the focus on maintaining each block's natural slope and aspect invites a more interesting architectural response and inspires designs that engage more completely with the natural surroundings.”

Blocks are comprised of both residential and apartment lots within the 24-hectare parcel of land and Alder Constructions have now commenced civil works for the Lookout Release which consists of 16 new residential lots due to reach the construction phase next year.

Enquire now to get first look at this incredible opportunity.

Principal of Explore Property Whitsunday Steve Marks and Alder Developments general manager Greg Tupicoff ‘turning the sod’ earlier this week

Airlie Summit is the highest zoned land in town

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Most people enjoy eating corncobs and the great news is, you can grow them all year round here in the Whitsundays as they thrive in temperatures between 18-35 degrees. So, what problems can you come across growing corn and how can you ensure long, healthy ears (the corn itself) with full, consistent kernels?

Corn needs full sun. So, pick your location well ensuring they get at least eight hours sunlight a day.

Corn is shallow rooted and grow tall quickly, so when planting seeds make sure you plant them deeper than the usual recommendation of double the seed width. I plant my corn seeds between 3-4cm deep. If planted too shallow, I find the roots develop too close to the surface and can lead to a few issues. Shallow roots mean they are susceptible to dehydration. Seeds germinate in 6-10 days (depending on soil temperature) and each corn plant will produce one or maybe two ears.

Three things to be aware of when growing corn:

Air flow – space your planting and support pollination

Air movement is an important factor for successful pollination as corn are wind pollinated.

But that also means you want to grow them together. Plant corn rows roughly 60cm apart from each other and plant your seeds about 30cm apart.    

Did you know:  You can assist in pollination of your corn. Simply remove the tassels (the brown thing on the top of the plant) and wipe them over the silk of the corncob (the threads growing out of the top of the corn ear itself), this is a great way to ensure consistent kernels.

Water – corn is shallow rooted, so regular watering is important

Watering effects the number of kernels on the corn ears, if your plants dry out during pollination you will find the kernels are inconsistent and your corn does not develop properly, so watering corn is very important. They will have roots on the surface of the soil, so make sure you cover them in mulch when they become visible to assist with keeping them hydrated. If the leaves of your corn go yellow, this could be an indication that the plants are dehydrated and you need to water either more frequently or for longer periods of time when you do water, ensuring the water is penetrating deep into the soil.

Fertilise – corn grow rapidly – feed well

Corn are hungry, fast growers. You will need to feed them! Poultry manure is a great food for corn and is my go to, as it is high in nitrogen and promotes strong root growth in your corn. A liquid feed (I use Seasol) weekly will give great results too. Your corn will be ready to harvest anywhere between 60-100 days and roughly three weeks after the silks appear, the silk will have turned brown.

FUN FACT:  

• The tallest corn stalk recorded was 35 ft tall

• Each kernel of a corn is actually a fruit, and the cob is the stem the fruit grow on

• Corn is used in glue, paint, cosmetics and laundry detergent!

CORN CHOWDER

A rich and delicious soup for these colder Whitsunday nights.

This is quick to prepare and cooks in 30 minutes.

What you’ll need:

1 x Tablespoon Butter

2 x Tablespoons of olive oil

2 x Onions roughly diced

1 x Celery Stick cut into small pieces

2 x Garlic Cloves

Salt & Pepper to your taste

350g Diced Potatoes

5 x Corn Cobs worth of kernels (use sharp knife to remove from cob)

4 x Tablespoons Plain Flour

750ml Vegetable Stock (heated)

500ml Unsweetened Rice Milk

3 x Tablespoons Chopped Tarragon

2 x Tablespoons Lemon Juice

Method

Place butter, oil, onions and celery into a saucepan and cook over low heat until onions are transparent. Add garlic and cook for another few minutes. Add a pinch of salt and as much pepper as you like.  

Add diced potatoes and sprinkle with the flour. Stir over heat for three minutes, then add vegetable stock, rice milk and corn. Add Tarragon.

Simmer for 15 minutes to cook potatoes and corn.

Place in blender, a third at a time and ensure it is thoroughly blended. If there are still lumps, push it through a sieve. Add lemon juice and reheat on low heat.

If it is too thick for your liking, just add more stock or water.

Top with a few tarragon leaves and a sprinkle of pepper.

Serve with lightly toasted crusty bread

Corn is fast growing and ready to harvest between 60-100 days

Assist pollination by removing tassels and rubbing them over the corn silk

Corn tassels

Make a delicious home cooked corn chowder this winter

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Property prices in the Whitsundays have reached a new peak with a record number of houses punching through the $1 million mark this year.

The latest data shows a 25 per cent upswing in the last 12 months, and Taylors Property Specialists have revealed the region had a record-breaking year in 2021 with 75 properties, including units and vacant land, selling for more than $1 million.

By comparison, 22 properties sold for more than $1 million in 2020 and just seven in 2016.

This surge has pushed house prices to their highest point in 15 years and 2022 is already on track to shatter that record once more, with 53 sales in excess of $1 million already recorded for the year to date.

Rob Taylor, Principal of Taylors Property Specialists says he has seen firsthand the recent demand for lifestyle properties in the area.

“The push from buyers in southern capitals into regional markets during the pandemic has significantly increased the exposure of the area with many looking for a lifestyle change,” said Mr Taylor.

“This trend is continuing with regional Queensland experiencing record migration from the southern states.”

This trend has been reinforced by the recent stage one launch of Shute Harbour Marina Resort which generated more than $21.5 million in sales contracts issued and more than 600 enquiries.

Experts believe that having a development of this calibre located in the Whitsundays increases the overall measure and worth of property, driving it upwards even further.

Mr Taylor said the lifestyle opportunities available at Shute Harbour Marina Resort represent a unique investment to the astute buyer, boasting free-hold residential waterfront sites of 440sqm which the developer has earmarked for two and three-storey design concepts.

Land and berth prices will start from $1.75 million. Expressions of interest are also being taken on future stages which will include marina loft apartments and plaza terrace homes.

The development of the first stage of Shute Harbour Marina Resort, which will include the marina and the stage one release of land and marina berths, is expected to take two years to complete. Construction is expected to begin next year.

Shute Harbour Marina Resort where beth and land prices start at $1.75 million

Rob Taylor from Taylors Property Specialists

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Proserpine State School has its origins in the late nineteenth century when, in response to a rapidly expanding population in the rich agricultural areas of the district, parents met to discuss the possible establishment of a school in the district.

The first application for a state school was rejected as there was insufficient local money available, so the Education Department approved a provisional school which would meet all requirements for the time being.

The original site was Waterson’s Paddock near Phaff’s Crossing, almost opposite where the junior sports fields are now located. Ten acres was proposed for the site - five for the school and grounds and five for the children’s ponies, however, the Department of Public Land considered five acres to be sufficient. Between the town and school, there were lagoons which, during the wet season, prevented students from attending school.

So why was the school located in this position? Firstly, it was determined the school should be built on government land on the main road to Bowen which, at that time, was the area opposite where the Proserpine Cemetery is now located. Water was available and the soil was of good quality. Additionally, the building material could be acquired easily as there was a sawmill within two miles of the site and a good road to The Landing at Glen Isla.

And so, on August 16, 1897, the Lower Provisional School 779 opened with thirty-one pupils and Head Teacher, Mr Robert J Walke. As the community grew, so did enrolments, necessitating the appointment of Miss Daisy Field as assistant to the principal.  In 1902, when Mr Walke was transferred, Miss Field was responsible for the education of sixty-one pupils! The Education Department advised that this number did not warrant an extra teacher however she was appointed Head Teacher with a salary of £90 ($180) per annum.

In 1904, within just seven years of opening, a new school was constructed in response to increasing dissatisfaction of parents with the inaccessibility of the school in wet weather and its distance from the growing township. The new school was built on two acres of land opposite the post office in Main Street where the Proserpine Entertainment Centre now stands. It was opened in March with Miss Field as Head Teacher to seventy-two students and Miss Armanesco as assistant. The old building was removed and re-erected for the Foxdale Provisional School.

Finally, on March 15 of that year, the school was gazetted as a state school. Proserpine State School continued to grow. By 1906, there were 102 students enrolled and in 1912, a new wing was added. By 1923, there were 300 students, eight teachers and one head teacher.

In 1929, the school became a Rural School. Domestic Science and Manual Training were introduced as once weekly lessons for grades six and seven from other small district primary schools. In 1939, a High Top was introduced for students wanting to continue studies after year 8. In 1946, the Windemere school building was moved to behind the school and used for High Top students.

In 1957, due to overcrowding and limited play areas, plans were afoot to build a new school in Ruge Street for the High Top students and also a primary school in Sterry Street. In 1961, Proserpine State School – Secondary Department opened in Ruge Street and between 1966 and 1970, the transition of students from the Main Street primary school to the new Proserpine State School in Sterry Street gradually took place.

Story and photos courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum and “Enlightened Horizons” by Neville Smith.  

What: Proserpine State School 125th Anniversary Celebrations and Fete.

When: September 3, commencing 2.30pm.

Where: Proserpine State School

First Proserpine State School - photo c 1900

Proserpine State School Main Street c 1924

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Last week, the tides dipped down to their winter low and visitors and locals alike experienced Bowen’s Walk to the Lighthouse.

Around 3pm on August 11, hundreds departed to observe the annual pilgrimage which heads across a sand spit to North Head Island.

Only a few times a year do Bowen’s daytime tides go low enough (0.2 metres) for visitors to experience a walking tour of both a snippet of Bowen history and its natural splendour.

The group of roughly 300 people waded through the shallow water in the hour-long trek which headed through rocky outcrops and across sea grass flats, ending with travellers being greeted by one of Queensland’s oldest lighthouses.

The walk, which is dotted with giant red starfish and sea cucumbers, was once a low-key tradition followed annually by Bowen locals but it has now become a must for travellers cruising the Queensland Coast.

In 2018, it famously appeared on Channel 7’s Weekender with its growing a cult following, but Covid put an end to its rapid development. This year, however, it was close to its former glory.

Bowen Tourism and Business Sales and Marketing Manager Leanne Abernathy said she joined as a Walk to the Lighthouse pilgrim on the day.

“It was awesome. The day that I walked out, there were about 300 people who got to see a great display of marine life like starfish and sea cucumbers,” Ms Abernathy said.

“I think it’s something different. You can only do it a couple of times a year and it’s so popular with locals because of that – the natural splendour on display.”

It takes roughly 20 minutes to cross the strait from the mainland to North Head Island. Then, through the granite outcroppings of the island, it takes just 25 minutes to reach the lighthouse.

Ms Abernathy said there was a mixture of locals but a lot of visitors, including internationals.

“It was great to see locals and tourists alike taking advantage of the natural tides, and it was great for our Bowen Tourism and Business volunteers to experience the event, too.”

Melissa Beuzeville, Kev and Viv Clark, Wendy Jensen, Leanne Abernathy at the Lighthouse on North Head Island, just off Bowen

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Airlie Beach local Paitin Powell headed to this year’s Miss Grand Australia beauty pageant in Sydney in late July with one purpose: to show women from the Whitsundays that they can achieve international goals.

Representing Queensland in her Miss Grand debut – a competition similar to Miss Universe and Miss World - Paitin competed against 19 other finalists from across the country in a bid for the Australian title, and made it all the way to the final two.

“When Amber and I were called as the final two, I was so excited with how far I had come. I knew I would be grateful whatever the outcome,” Paitin said.

“When I started the competition, I said to myself: stay true to who you are and where you come from. I was the only North Queenslander, so it was important for me to promote the Whitsundays and North Queensland – I achieved that.”

Paitin placed second overall, being given the title of first runner-up – an accolade she was incredibly proud of.

“I am over the moon with that placing, especially considering this was my first time competing in this program,” Paitin said.

With the top two finish, Paitin gained not just experience, but a skincare ambassadorship with Defence Skin.

She plans to continue working alongside Miss Grand Australia and create awareness for Destiny Rescue – a charity she has already raised $2500 for in her Miss Grand Australia bid.

“I want to say a huge thank you to everyone that was a part of my journey and supported me and my fund raising,” Paitin said.

She plans to compete for the title of Miss Grand Australia 2023 next year.

Paitin Powell placed as first runner up in her debut at the Australian wide iteration of the Miss Grand beauty pageant

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The largest regional and rural advocacy group in the country celebrated a milestone in delicious style last week, inviting communities across the state into their halls to celebrate their centenary.

Queensland Country Women’s Association (QCWA), founded in 1922, opened its doors for a ‘Sconversation Day’ – a morning tea backed by home-baked goods - on August 11 in honour of their 100th year anniversary.

The hundreds of branches of the organisation across Queensland honoured their organisations founder, Ruth Fairfax, as well as looked towards its future in an ever-changing landscape for women.

Often associated with cooking and craft, QCWA have been and become much more than that – they are a place for effecting positive change. A place for women to connect and empower themselves, to improve the conditions of women and children everywhere – especially those in rural and remote Australia.

Although the country may have changed in the hundred years since it began – communities are closer than ever before - the need for social connection, and the need for a kind community has not.

With a symbol of the early days – scones and tea, which had been an icon of the association from the 1920s onwards – QCWA celebrated their colossal impact on rural Australia, but most importantly, the impact they had on women.

The Proserpine Branch of the QCWA marked the occasion at their premises on 4 Faust Street, with members having spent the morning diligently baking scones, cupcakes, and other tasty treats for the centenary.

“As a state, CWA is one hundred years old, and in celebration of that birthday, all branches are having scone day today,” Branch President Elaine Fieldman said.

“For me, what CWA in my 16 years of membership has meant, is having the support of other women. I think that’s why a lot of members come and be a part of the organisation.

“You meet really nice people who are generous with their time and their support, and that’s always what we’ve wanted to generate – that friendship group.”

For the Proserpine Branch, though, it acted as a dress rehearsal for celebrations next year, when they reach their own 100-year anniversary.

“Next year will be our own 100 years, and we’ll be celebrating it alongside the Mackay branch and with the public,” Ms Fieldman said.

“Dates have not been finalised, but it will be an excellent celebration, I assure you.”

QCWA Proserpine Branch President Elaine Fieldman, Treasurer Robyn Creighton, Lindsay Creighton, and Councillor Al Grundy enjoying scones and a tea at the centenary celebration

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