One of the Whitsunday’s most iconic resort islands is under new management, following news that developer Glenn Piper recently acquired the leasehold and has plans to reinvigorate the property into a new world-class eco-lodge, with food and beverage at the heart of the experience.  

Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Meridian Australia, Mr Piper has invested in over 90 properties and says he is committed to respecting the land and heritage while bringing his vision to life.

“There’s nothing quite like Hook Island - very few locations in the world can offer this level of natural wonder,” he said.

“I want to create an experience that befits the beauty of the Island, and the Whitsundays - respectfully and sustainably.

“I’m energised at the thought of creating a world class hospitality experience for this slice of paradise and cannot wait for the first guest to step onto the sand.”

Previously home to Hook Island Lodge which closed down in 2013, the island has been virtually abandoned for almost a decade.

The dis-used resort was severely damaged during Cyclone Debbie in 2017 and as part of a $25 million Great Barrier Reef (GBR) Island Resorts Rejuvenation Program the previous owners cleared the site.

During the process, they demolished 10 buildings and removed tonnes of asbestos, metal, concrete and other waste from the resort, creating an expansive 9.5 hectare blank canvas for the new developers.

Whitsunday Regional Council’s Acting Major, Mike Brunker, said the Council always welcomes investment in new tourism products and experiences to enhance the already unique portfolio of what the Whitsundays has to offer.

Tourism Whitsundays Chief Executive Officer, Rick Hamilton also welcomed the development of a new eco resort on the island.

“The new eco resort will further enhance the reputation of The Whitsundays and Queensland both domestically and internationally as the must do destination in Australia,” he said.

Piper has partnered with a small syndicate of investors on the purchase and will receive the keys in August, immediately commencing his research and consultancy process to inform the future vision and concept for Hook Island.

The abandoned Hook Island Resort is a blank canvas for the developer

The fringing reef provides the ideal eco-tourism holiday

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Have you ever considered growing Australian Native Bush Tucker?

For those of you who are experienced at growing your own food, this could be your next venture.

As we develop our nursery at Paluma Road, our focus is on Australian Natives. We will share the full story about this with you in the next addition of Core Life Magazine’s Home and Garden Issue in July, so keep an eye out for that.  

In our research into Australian Natives, learning about bush tucker has meant new and interesting plants are making their way into our ever-expanding edible home garden.

I have not found a lot of native plants that would be looked upon as vegetables for us to grow (yet) but there are a few bush tomatoes, leafy greens and yams - I am yet to experiment with these, if you have – please let me know!

norinajane@whitpro.com.au

So, let’s talk bush fruit!

Here’s one you must give a go. As we all become increasingly aware of the rising costs of feeding our families, I note that Finger Lime fruit are not only difficult to find, they are also expensive to buy, so grow your own - I have two but plan on planting many more.

Finger Limes are versatile in the kitchen as they can be used for sweet or savoury dishes.

Mix them with whipped cream and put it on your favourite desert (a dash of Cointreau and wow!), they are also great in rice paper rolls, served with seafood, used in jams and sauces and even in curries!

They (like most fruit trees) are hungry plants, so fertile soil is a must. They like a moist (so mulch around the base of the tree), well-drained soil and grow best in part shade. They can take 3-5 years before fruit appear, so get planting now!

Described as citrus caviar, this fruit has become very sought after as an Australian native restaurant favourite and looks fantastic on your plate.

Other bush fruits you could grow here in the Whitsundays are: Quandongs, Rose Myrtle and Riberry.

Growing your own is not only rewarding, healthy and the environmental way to go, it

can also save you money.  

Have you planted your lettuce yet? If not, drop in and I’ll give you seeds!  

Did you know:

•Aboriginals used the Finger Lime pulp as an antiseptic for open wounds.

•Finger Limes are one of the few citrus fruits that can be easily frozen, storing is not an issue that means you can have them all year long!

•Finger Lime varieties produce green, yellow and red fruit, each with a slightly different flavour.

Caution: it’s a prickly tree but that makes it a safe haven for birds (silver-lining)

Finger Lime takes 3-5 years before fruit appear

Quandong are other native fruits that can grow in the Whitsundays

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A seasoned Whitsunday tourism operator has been recognised as one of Australia and New Zealand’s top 10 experience at the Viator Experience Awards 2022.

The new award program has ranked Whitsunday company Ocean Rafting’s Hill Inlet Lookout and Snorkel Spots as one of World's top experiences in its inaugural honours.

The “new hallmark of the best experiences to book” has recognized 220 experiences, tours, and activities in 11 geographic regions around the world – with Ocean Rafting taking a top spot in Oceania.

Viator – a company acquired by Tripadvisor in 2014 – is one of the world’s largest online marketplaces for tours, activities, and attractions.

The awards are based on consistent excellent reviews and booking numbers.

Ocean Rafting’s win puts them in good company alongside tours across the globe, with other winners touring places like Niagara Falls, the Grand Canyon, and Pompei.

Local Whitsunday tours joining Ocean Rafting in the rankings included Whitsunday Bullet Day Trip – which snuck in at the number 10 spot – and Whitsunday Crocodile Safari at number 11.

Ocean Rafting owner Jan Claxton said the achievement was made even more fantastic because the awards weren’t something Ocean Rafting needed to make a submission for.

“The win comes purely from reviews of the people who have come out and experienced our tours and told of how wonderful they are,” Ms Claxton said.

“It’s such a wonderful positive coming out from the last few years that we’ve all had in the tourism industry.

“As well, it’s all about our team on the water and what they go out and do every single day to make people’s experiences magical.”

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Students and teachers at Cannonvale State School have been enjoying the new administration and resource centre building for several months now and they were thrilled to give Education Minister Grace Grace a tour of the new facility earlier this week.

During the morning, Minister Grace officially opened the building, revealing a commemorative plaque.

“This wonderful building meets the needs of the growing school community, which has increased in enrolments from around 600 in 2013 to around 840 students today,” Ms Grace said.

“The school now has a high-quality administration and resource centre, located at the front of the school, providing a welcoming space for everyone entering the school grounds.”

The old building has been completely refurbished and now holds six new classrooms with a lift to ensure accessibility.

These additional learning rooms will be able to cater for the expected growth of the school.

The new resource centre provides an administration area, offices, two first aid rooms, spaces for the leadership team, conference room, staff room and amenities as well as housing all the learning resources for the entire school.

“The new building is absolutely amazing,” said Principal Angie Kelly.

“It really has changed everyone’s lives, creating a warm and welcoming learning environment that meets the needs of a large school.”

During construction of the facility around 30 jobs were supported, 22 of which were apprentices who worked directly onsite.

While visiting the region, Minister Grace took a tour of Proserpine State High School’s $19.5 million Performing Arts Centre, STEM building and other recent refurbishments which included multiple learning spaces and an administration building.

Proserpine State High School Principal, Don McDermid, said the new facilities had been very welcomed.

“It’s simply fantastic for all our students and staff to have these modern facilities,” said Principal McDermid.

“The building work done in recent years at our school has really made a huge difference.”

Principal Angie Kelly helps Minister Grace Grace cut the ribbon with students

Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP joins the group

Minister Grace Grace chats with local students

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Big Fines For Bad Behaviour

Anyone caught misbehaving in the Airlie Beach Safe Night Precinct (SNP) will be given a hefty fine by Whitsunday Police who are cracking down on alcohol and drug fuelled violence in the main street.

On the spot fines issued in the SNP include public nuisance ($827), public urination ($275) and if caught consuming liquor in a public place, the fine is $137.

If a patron were to be violent, severely intoxicated, assault or obstruct police then they will find themselves in the watchhouse for the night until deemed fit to go home.

There are 15 SNP’s in Queensland, and they were established so patrons could enjoy a fun and safe night out with friends or family.

Airlie Beach SNP boundaries exist from Shingley Drive to the Coconut Grove round-about.

Vehicles Ablaze In Bowen

Two separate incidents saw vehicles set on fire in Bowen last week with police currently investigating whether the cause may be arson.

On Tuesday, May 24 a nearby car yard was threatened when a scooter caught on fire in Powell St, flames stretching up into the sky in the early hours of the evening.

Local fire officers reported that the incident was called-in by a member of the public and attended to immediately.

There was some damage to the fence of Filby’s caryard, but it was largely protected.

The second incident occurred at 3.38am Friday, May 27 when a Holden Commodore sedan was destroyed by fire on Bootooloo Road at the intersection of Drays Road.

Fire Officers brought the situation under control and the vehicle has now been seized by police.

Anyone who may have information about ownership of the fire damaged vehicles or information relating to possible vehicle arson itself is encouraged to contact police as soon as possible by calling Crimestoppers 1800 333 000 or Policelink 131 444.

Teenage Drug Bust In Airlie

Two 18-year-old Rural View men were found in possession of dangerous drugs on Friday, May 27 when police intercepted their vehicle in Airlie Beach.

During the search police located and seized just under six grams of cocaine, 17 grams of cannabis, drug related equipment and a large sum of cash.

Both men were charged with possessing dangerous drugs and are set to appear at the Proserpine Magistrates Court on June 27 and July 25.

Police also issued the driver traffic infringement notices for failing to display P plates, parking in a disabled zone and overloading a vehicle.

A scooter ablaze in the centre of Bowen last week

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A Proserpine Hospital registered nurse has been recognised for her dedication to patient care and staff training as the recipient of a Whitsunday region nursing award.

Nurse Tatum Lawrie was presented with Peta Watson Memorial Award on International Nurses Day in early May at a morning tea celebrating the contributions of nurses across the region.

The Peta Watson Memorial Award is named in honour of enrolled nurse and Home Care Coordinator Peta Watson who worked her entire career with Proserpine Hospital.

Ms Watson was known for providing exceptional patient-centred care to support her clients' independence at home.

Ms Lawrie received the award for her contributions as part of the Proserpine Hospital nursing team providing care to patients in the emergency department and across the hospital’s wards.

Director of Nursing Nicola Young said positive feedback from patients, hospital colleagues and community members supported Tatum’s nomination.

“She always goes the extra mile to support day infusion patients and trains her colleagues to ensure other nurses receive education and upskilling,” Ms Young said.

“We have a great team in Proserpine. I feel very fortunate to be surrounded by so many dedicated and caring nurses, just like Peta."

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Kerri Southee knows the Whitsundays better than anyone, and she knows property management like the back of her hand.

The owner of Tropical Rentals Whitsunday – an independent, boutique property management agency – has over 20 years of expertise in the Queensland market, and she’s just getting started.

It’s been a quick rise with her at the helm as the friendly face of dedication at Tropical Rentals since its beginnings in 2019, consistently providing the best in personalised property management for residential and commercial investment properties.

Originally from Melbourne, the fully licensed Real Estate Agent knows the realm inside and out, with it all starting way back when she first moved to the region.

“I used to come up here to holiday, and I realised that was crazy; the holidays can be in cold, old Melbourne and I can live up here,” Kerri said.

“I have a Bachelor of Arts and a Degree in Hospitality Management, and I originally came up to work as a food and beverage manager. I ended up sailing with Chris Nichols – and it’s his fault for getting me into property!

“I was quickly at L J Hooker in the deep end. I fell in love with it pretty quickly.”

The years went by and Kerri eventually branched out on her own in 2019, and quickly garnered a reputation as the on-call, 365 days a year property manager she is today. Commitment to the finest, personal service and communication with honours has been her goal since day one – and it’s left her with roaring reviews.

“It all started with owners from my previous jobs asking me: can you start your own business? We don’t want to go to a big company,” Kerri said.

“That’s how it all started, being asked by people to not do everything through a faceless agency. To dedicate our time to our owners, our tenants.”

The mantra of Tropical Rentals: we are here to support you, to listen to your needs.

From start to finish holiday permanent or holiday property management, to concierge and in-house cleaning, Kerri and her wonderful team of dedicated professionals offer a different level of service; she’s made Tropical Rentals Whitsunday a catchall for property management – and she’s always happy for a chat.

Tropical Rentals Whitsunday Senior Property Manager Kerri Southee

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Impressing a panel of 18 judges in a gruelling four-and-a-half-hour interview process, local inventor Sam Rogers, won two awards at the prestigious International Science and Engineering Fair, (ISEF) which was held virtually from the United States in May.

At just 15 years old, Sam was one of the youngest entrants showcasing his AI – powered Electronic Waste Sorting Robotic Arm among some of the best youth projects from around the world in his 14 to 18 age-group category.

Awarded third place in the “Advancement of Artificial Intelligence” category, which had a total of 1800 entries, and second place in the category of Environmental Engineering, Sam took home a prize pool of $3000 US.

“The judges were a lot nicer than I thought they would be!” said Sam.

“They asked a lot of questions, but it was less scary than I thought and there was a lot of encouragement for getting a patent which was really exciting.”

The impressive Robotic Arm, which is a prototype for what Sam hopes could revolutionise the process of recycling, took two years to build and was an independent project that he funded himself.

The arm is ‘trained’ to detect electronic waste on a conveyor belt of general waste and pick up items that can be recycled.

It is estimated that 40 million tonnes of electronic waste are generated in the world each year and, although this represents only two per cent of the overall waste, it accounts for 70 per cent of the overall toxic waste.

“Growing up here in the Whitsundays instilled some strong environmental values in me,” explained Sam.

“We’ve also got a massive pollution problem in the world and I want to help in any way I can.”

When asked what he will do with his prize money, Sam said he has already registered a business name and hopes to invest further in the robotics industry.

“I’m not quite sure what I will do yet, but I am looking at something in the agricultural sector,” he said.

“I haven’t decided what I will do with the robotic arm yet either, it might become part of my portfolio for now.”

Competing in the ISEF opened many opportunities for Sam, including a $30,000 scholarship to Virginia Commonwealth University.

While he is pleased with the acknowledgement, he said that he would be looking at other universities, his dream of studying at MIT still within his sites.

In the meantime, Sam is dedicated to his studies at Proserpine State High School and is hoping to participate in an Australian Droid and Robotics summer internship soon.

Proserpine State High School student Sam Rogers brings home international award

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Who Will Become The Next Whitsunday Mayor?

Local residents could be returning to the polls in as little as eight weeks’ time to vote for a new Mayor following the recent election which saw Andrew Willcox become Federal Member for Dawson, relinquishing his role of Mayor mid-term.

His departure from the Whitsunday Regional Council has left a vacancy for the top spot, and some familiar faces have now stepped forward to vie for the honour of becoming the new Mayor of the Whitsundays.

So far, four candidates have confirmed their nominations – Councillor Al Grundy, Councillor Jan Clifford, Acting Mayor Mike Brunker and local business owner Peter Hood.

Tell us the reason you are nominating for Mayor:

Al Grundy

I want to continue the journey of uniting our towns, a path ensuring each person in the community feels they can have a say that is heard and appreciated. I don’t plan on being a career politician, rather using my business and commercial background to provide strategic direction for the betterment of the region and those who live in our community.

I genuinely love the Whitsundays, its natural beauty, resources and good people, and am driven to get the best outcomes for all.

Jan Clifford

I'm nominating to become Mayor of the Whitsunday Regional Council to continue the great work done by Mayor Willcox in uniting the region and ensuring that all residents are given a fair and equitable go. I am looking to encourage investment, business growth and appropriate development throughout the Whitsundays and to allow the residents an opportunity to continue to enjoy living in this vibrant region and to grow the economy and employment opportunities.

Mike Brunker

Since the election I have been inundated with people from right across the region requesting that I run for Mayor. I believe I am still young enough and can still contribute enough, using all my experience from being in local government for the past 22 years to really benefit the region.

Peter Hood

A principal accountant, tax agent and forensic auditor with over 44 years of experience engaging with clients in The Whitsundays, throughout Australia and overseas. I am experienced in dealings with Federal, State and Local Governments for 44 years and a Whitsunday Local for 24 years. My Politics = Independent.

What skills and experience do you have that would make you a good fit for this role?

Al Grundy

In 1997 I moved to the Whitsundays and became a partner/director in a Sailing Company. In 2006 I was appointed to the board of Tourism Whitsundays and in 2016 appointed as Chairman. In this role, I advocated to all levels of government, securing additional funding for the area and achieving positive legislative change. In 2014 I received the Tourism and Business Award for Outstanding Contribution by an Individual to the Whitsundays.  

Jan Clifford

As a sitting councillor with the Whitsunday Regional Council since amalgamation in 2008 I have the experience and dedication to the community necessary to be Mayor. Besides being a very experienced Councillor I have wide and long term experience in a number of industries, committees and funding and focus groups and, as I have no outside business interests, I am able to commit all of that experience to the future growth and harmony of the entire Whitsunday Regional Council region.

Mike Brunker

I was Mayor of the Whitsundays and Bowen for 15 years, during which I was the 1st Mayor of the amalgamated regions. I believe in economic development – over the last few years, since Debbie, we have been assisted with state government and insurance money, but over the next few years we’re going to have to be out there lobbying for funds and letting everyone know we are open for business – I will ensure we always get our fair share for the region.

Peter Hood

If elected I would return 50 per cent of my mayoral salary back to the communities and work extended periods within the various operational areas of WRC; including Tourism Whitsundays and Work Depots to find out what makes them tick. I would also meet with two residents from each WRC Division every month to ensure that I stay focused on matters for their Communities, and I would bring WRC rates, fees and charges down without reducing the quality and delivery of services.

What would be your first priorities as Mayor?

Al Grundy

Establish a number of Strategic Advisory Groups, consisting of industry representatives, community groups, council officers and councillors, tasked with understanding relevant issues, identifying opportunities and achieving reasonable consensus on solutions before presenting to the council and broader community. Focus with urgency on finding a local solution to the shortage of affordable housing. Investigate further opportunities for our economic drivers, such as agriculture and tourism.

Jan Clifford

As Mayor I would like to see more engagement with the community; in particular those who reside in our smaller communities. It would be particularly helpful to hold public meetings after the budget in order to advise the residents of the how and why the budget is formulated, where and why the budget allocations are decided and receive feedback from our ratepayers and residents on that funding going forward.

Mike Brunker

It’s just a matter of a steady hand steering the ship so we can continue in the same direction. A couple of examples that I would be getting behind include the Bowen Marine Project and another initiative which is turning black plastic into fuel. We would keep going as we are budget wise, keep it circulating around the regions and making sure we only spend what we need.

Peter Hood

Conduct an internal forensic audit of WRC operations at zero cost to Ratepayers to smash the wastage trails. Improve the equality of life for Whitsundays families. Build opportunities to encourage existing businesses to prosper and grow. Properly represent The Whitsundays to all levels of government to grow our communities. Address the issues for improved community health, aged care facilities/services and residential rental accommodation.

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Financial and economic circumstances are forever changing and thanks to the pandemic, they’re changing now more than ever.

Regularly exploring the option of refinancing your home loan could be a good way to make sure you are getting the best option to suit your needs and objectives.

RAMS Mackay Franchise Principal Leon Owen says refinancing could offer an opportunity to get a more competitive rate and opens the possibility of a fixed rate home loan that could give some certainty in these periods of increasing interest rates.

“Our customers always ask about the benefits of fixing their interest rate as opposed to staying on a variable interest rate,” Leon said.

“The most common reason that our customers choose a fixed rate is to have some certainty in the repayment amount.

“So ‘no surprises’, make it a lot easier to budget and sleep easier at night.”

Leon says that recently rising property prices mean people may have more equity in their homes which could eliminate the need for Lenders Mortgage Insurance.

The experienced home loan specialists at RAMS Mackay deliver expert service necessary to assist you in making informed decisions about refinancing.

They can see you face to face at the newly renovated Rural View office or arrange to see you at a place and time that is more convenient for you.

“Our team places a priority on delivering a high level of service with the goal of improving every customer’s situation,” Leon said.

“The key to a successful refinancing decision is working with experienced people who really want the best long-term outcome for the customer and that’s what RAMS do!

And, you might be eligible for a refinance rebate.”

Interested locals should contact the friendly team at RAMS Mackay on 07 4863 4723 and speak to Leon or Eden situated in the Rural View office.  

Disclaimer: This information is general in nature and has been prepared without taking your objectives, needs and overall financial situation into account. For this reason, you should consider the appropriateness of the information to your own circumstances and, if necessary, seek appropriate professional advice.

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A new pilot project will see the design and production of electronics brought to the Mackay region in a world-first shared micro manufacturing facility in Mackay’s CBD.

The Rapid Prototyping and Micro Manufacturing Collaborative Pilot project seeks to remove a significant gap in the design and manufacture of small-scale electronic products and pave a pathway for scale-up and start-up businesses to grow and diversify.

The project, funded by METS Ignited and Mackay Regional Council, is being facilitated by Split Spaces and Resource Industry Network, and Split Spaces community manager Tegan McBride says the facility will give new businesses the opportunity to grow.

“This facility is like all other equipment in Split Spaces, it’s shared-use equipment, which means that if you’re a new business starting out or if you’re trying to scale up your business, you don’t need to purchase this equipment yourself,” she said.

“You’ll be able to manufacture your own electronic components right here in Mackay and make some quick changes to your prototypes which will help you get to market quicker with the product that works for you.”

The new cleanroom facility holds a pick-and-place machine for circuit board assembly in printed circuit board manufacturing.

A robotic placement head picks up electronic surface mounted technology components and places them on a printed circuit board, then a soldering oven reflow station completes the process.

Mackay-based, globally focused technology company Vayeron was the first business to come on board and co-founder and CEO Ryan Norris says the ability to manufacture in Mackay will simplify the process.

“We can now, not only quickly prototype here in Mackay instead of down in Sydney, we can manufacture products for our customers who are in Chile, the US, Taiwan, but also in Western Australia and the Bowen Basin,” he said.

Resource Industry Network General Manager Dean Kirkwood says the facility will prepare the Bowen Basin’s mines for a data-driven future and he hopes to integrate the pilot program with stage two of the Resources Centre of Excellence involving critical minerals processing.

“If we can get raw material being processed through there and actually come up with the materials that are utilised as part of the chipboards and create a supply chain all the way through, imagine that,” he said.

“Everything produced here, on our doorsteps, for our businesses.”

Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson says the facility is the only community shared equipment of its type in Australia and will put Mackay on the map, quoting a statistic stating that Australia is ranked 74th based on technological advancements.

“We have to be part of this technology advance that the rest of the world is taking up,” he said.

“We have a long way to go and it’s projects like this that will start to involve the thinking process of a lot of our current organisations around ‘What can we actually do here?’ They are leading the way.”

Tegan says the collaboration is actively seeking additional partners.

“Anything with electronic components,” she said.

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Queensland manufacturers can now save money while lowering their carbon footprint thanks to a website tool.

The Advancing Renewables in Manufacturing project helps businesses in the state’s manufacturing sector find energy cost savings if they switch to renewables.

Minister for Regional Development and Manufacturing Glenn Butcher said a recent sample of 20 Queensland manufacturers showed there are large savings to be had for businesses looking to go greener.

“Over the 20 businesses, an average of 22 per cent potential energy savings were identified and nearly every business found some energy savings that could be made, by making the switch.

“That includes one engineering and fabrication business in central Queensland, which found they could save 55 per cent on energy, by making the switch to renewables.

“This is going to be crucial in the future and especially in the lead-up to 2032, so it’s important to see where changes can be made now,” he said.

The tool is intended to provide practical help to the many Queensland manufacturers who want to adopt renewable energy as their primary source but don’t know where to start and will contribute to a climate positive Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The website, www.energysustainability.com.au, will help each business owner determine if the switch would save them money by transitioning to renewable energy sources.

In addition to providing cost information, the web-based platform was designed to educate manufacturers and help them self-assess their own business’ opportunities to transition to renewables in a cost-effective way.

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THE Trudy Crowley Foundation Cancer Support Centre has been supporting more than 80 families impacted by cancer with a single donated iPad.

Now though, thanks to a $11,600 council Community Grant, the vital centre will be able to purchase and install IT equipment, Wi-Fi and a digital presentation system.

Community Grants Committee chair Cr Laurence Bonaventura said the funds would also go towards the development of a website, which will link people to the centre to assist with early intervention and information sharing.

“The Foundation has a free-of-charge counsellor who will use this equipment and internet to offer online therapeutic support,” Cr Bonaventura said.

“This will, in turn, decrease the need for clients to travel and increase their comfort and quality of life,” he said.

“The committee was very pleased to be able to support this application.”

Grants Continue To Care For Community Groups

Caption Midge Point: The Midge Point Fishing and Recreational Club was awarded $1,800 towards a ‘take a kid fishing day’

All up, $180,536 worth of Community Grants was distributed to 12 not-for-profit groups, and $8324 worth of Small Equipment Grants was distributed to six groups.

Another grant was awarded to a group on the edge of council’s northern boundary, the Midge Point Fishing and Recreational Club.

“It’s great to be able to contribute $1800 towards a ‘take a kid fishing day’ run by the club on the front beach at Midge Point for up to 100 kids,” Cr Bonaventura said.

“Grassroots events like this can get kids hooked on fishing and the outdoors for life and they often give children, who would never normally have the chance, an opportunity to learn fishing skills.”

Cr Bonaventura said the southern end of the region had also featured in this funding round.

“The Koumala Community Hall Committee are a small but hard-working group that provides a great community hall facility for residents,” he said.

“This committee operates on a shoestring budget, so it’s great to be able to approve a $6500 grant towards a kitchen upgrade for the facility.

“It was also fantastic to be able to support Kucom Theatre with a grant in the minor infrastructure and assets category.

“The group received $30,000 towards the purchase and installation of retractable seating at the Snow Wright Court theatre.”

The full list of grants issued also includes:

•Mackay Kennel Club Inc - $7120 towards the purchase of a computer equipment, iPads and a portable loudspeaker system  

•Mackay Family History Society Inc – $3365 towards the purchase of laptops and monitors for use at the Old Town Hall premises  

•Mackay District Target Rifle Association Inc – $20,520 towards the fabrication of a mobile small-bore rifle shooting unit, complete with targets and bullet traps at the Mount Vince Shooting Complex  

•Mackay Hospital Foundation – $7500 towards the Family Fun Day on Sunday, June 5, 2022, at BB Print Stadium  

•Bakers Creek AFL Club – $30,000 towards upgrading/renovating the existing two light poles at the Pattinson Lane grounds  

•Mackay Surf Life Saving Club Inc – $9743 towards the replacement of two roller doors on the clubhouse storage room at Mackay Harbour  

•Lions Club of Mackay Host – $8300 towards the installation of an air-conditioner, solar roof vents and motorised door openers, and an electrical upgrade to the shed in Loughnane Court.

•Community Accommodation & Support Agency Inc – $30,000 towards the upgrading and/or replacement of aging IT office equipment at the Gregory Street office

•Mackay Gymnastics Incorporated – $5000 towards updating the outdated stereo/PA system at the Snow Wright Court building.

•The Neighbourhood Hub Integrated Family Support (IFS) Hub – $6000 towards the ‘Boost’ Early Years Program

Small equipment grants were also awarded to:

•YIRS One Stop Youth Shop Inc – $1500 towards the purchase of two laptops

•Mackay City Hawks Inc. Australian Rules Football Club – $1500 towards the purchase of an ice machine

•Nanyima Aged Care – $1500 towards the purchase of a lawnmower and hedge trimmer.

•Kidney Support Network –$1500 towards the purchase of a countertop refrigerated display unit

•52 Squash and Fitness Club Incorporated – $1500 towards the purchase of a camera to affix to court 1

•Calen Trail and Horse Sports Inc – $824.44 towards the purchase of emergency kits, including snake bite bandage, portable UHF radios and a large storage bag.

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A dedicated nurse who gave more than four decades of care to her patients was farewelled by Mackay Hospital and Health Service earlier this month.

Executive Director of Nursing and Midwifery Julie Rampton started her nursing training at Maryborough Hospital in 1979 where she worked as a registered nurse before studying midwifery at the Royal Women’s Hospital.

She then returned to Maryborough Hospital as a midwife before moving into nurse educator roles followed by the position of Assistant Director of Nursing Education and then Director of Nursing.

She moved to Mackay to become the Nursing Director for Education and Research in 2007 and in 2009 became the acting District Director of Nursing Services before being permanently appointed to the role in May 2011. That position eventually became the Executive Director of Nursing and Midwifery.

Julie has also stepped in to act as the Chief Executive for the health service and most recently has been the Executive Director of our COVID-19 response and taken responsibility for the roll out of vaccinations, testing and has led the MHHS Incident Management Team, steering it through a challenging time.

A spokesperson for Mackay Hospital and Health Service said Julie has always placed patients first and foremost and her caring nature will be missed.

In the 13 years Julie has been the Executive Director of Nursing and Midwifery in Mackay she has overseen many achievements and changes in the nursing workforce.

These include working with JCU and CQU to establish the role of Students in Nursing.

“Our SINs are now an established and valuable part of our workforce and they support our ‘grow our own’ approach to staff recruitment and retention,” the spokesperson said.

Julie has always been passionate about education and ensuring nurses are able to keep their skills contemporary. One of the exciting changes she has seen is the introduction of the digital hospital and supporting the profession in Mackay to be an early adopter of this technology in Queensland.

“She has also been part of establishing the rural relievers program to provide graduate nurses the opportunity to work across rural hospitals, not only meeting workforce needs but giving our newly minted nurses a unique experience.”

She has witnessed the growth of midwifery as a profession and seen the introduction of two midwifery group practices, Maternally Yours staffed by graduate midwives and KemKem Yanga for women and babies who identify as Aboriginal and or Torres Strait Islander.

Julie is rightfully proud of the role she played in the redevelopment of Mackay Base Hospital, being a voice for the nursing workforce and supporting new models of care.

MHHS Executive Director of Nursing and Midwifery Julie Rampton (left) retired this month after more than 40 years of service with Queensland Health. Photo supplied MHHS

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A series of powerful billboards was launched on Monday to raise awareness and draw attention to the impact domestic violence (DV) has on children.

The three billboards developed and delivered by DV Taskforce Mackay depict the faces of children and convey messages relating to children learning from and repeating the behaviour of their parents.

Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson says the campaign is intended to shine a light on an issue that was previously swept under the rug.

“This is about raising the level of awareness of how abuse in a family environment affects kids,” he said.

“The people who get the most traumatised out of it are children.

“If just one person picks up the phone and says, ‘I need help,’ we think we’re a long way down the track.”

Mackay Women’s Services Executive Director Linda-Ann Northey says the main message of the campaign is intervention and prevention.

“We want to make a difference for children today, make sure that they’re safe, get the message out there in a really highlighted way, but we also want to make a difference for the next generation,” she said.

There are up to 700 referrals for children requiring the service of Mackay Women’s Services and Ms Northey says she hopes that’s due to new awareness thanks to campaigns like this.

The campaign will be seen in various locations around the region for the next 12 months including two digital billboards and information screens at Caneland Central.

Caneland Centre Manager Simon De Barro says Lendlease Caneland has been a member of the mayor’s domestic violence committee since 2017 and they are proud to provide coverage of such an important campaign.

“The real message behind the campaign is helping the hidden faces of domestic violence and domestic abuse which is, of course, the children,” he said.

“To facilitate change is incredibly important and an incredibly powerful message that Caneland is supporting.”

Mayor Greg Williamson, Mackay Women’s Services Executive Director Linda-Ann Northey and Caneland Central centre manager Simon De Barro launch “The Hidden Face” campaign. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

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