Airlie Beach Festival of Music is kicking off its 10th anniversary celebrations with a rock-and-roll new look thanks to major government backing.

The region’s favourite audible feast unveiled the new rebrand at the May 2022 Tourism Whitsundays networking night, courtesy of support by the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland (TEQ).

The partnership – which has run for a majority of its 10-years - has just been extended, with Tourism Minister Stirling Hinchliffe announcing the festival would receive funding to the tune of $175,000 for the event from 2022-24, through TEQ’s Queensland Destination Events Program.

Minister Hinchliffe said the festival was one of the Whitsundays’ favourite annual events.

“Significant events like the Airlie Beach Festival of Music bring extra visitors to the Whitsundays who contribute to the region’s economic recovery,” Mr Hinchliffe said.

“Music fans living it up in paradise represent a bounty for accommodation providers, restaurants, cafes and the Whitsundays’ world-famous tourism operators.

“This year’s festival line-up is predicted to deliver more than $2 million for the visitor economy, and support for local jobs.

“That’s why the Government is backing the 10th year of the Airlie Beach Festival of Music.”

Tourism Whitsundays Chief Executive Officer, Rick Hamilton, echoed the Minister’s comments, saying this was why his team were committed to supporting existing, and growing new events, in the Heart of the Great Barrier Reef.

“The positive impacts and interest in a community that a successful regional event can provide pays dividends both socially and economically,” he said.

The rebrand for the Queensland Music Awards ‘Festival of the Year’ includes a new logo and modernised artwork, marrying the elements of music and place, and symbolising the event’s uniqueness as the Heart of Live Music on the Great Barrier Reef.

Founder of Airlie Beach Music, Gavin Bultin, was ecstatic to see his dream of 10 years ago transform what was once Airlie’s quietest weekend into its busiest.

“It doesn’t get any easier but to get to 10 years is pretty amazing,” Mr Butlin said.

“I’m proud of what we’ve been able to build over the years and eternally grateful to everyone who’s been a part of it.”

For more information or for tickets to the 2022 festival from November 4-6, visit www.airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au, and follow @airliebeachfestivalofmusic on Facebook and Instagram.

KB Design Director Kath Bowers with Airlie Beach Festival of Music founder Gavin Butlin with the festival's new-look logo and poster

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Although the Lethebrook area was settled years earlier, the Banana Pocket Provisional School did not open until May 29, 1922. The first pupils hailed from three families – Arthur, Terence and Evelyn Smith; Norman, Eleanor, May and Fred Williams; and Daly, Alex and Marjorie Thomas.

As was often the case in these early days, residents of the area enabled the establishment of the first school. In this case, it was Mr Jack Smith who had a small hut on a block of land known as the “Old Garden”. After a few modifications, this 16 foot x 10 foot (4.87 metre x 3.05 metre) shed became the first school with Miss Phyllis Lena Dawson as the first teacher. A bedroom for the teacher was built by Mr Williams adjacent to the residence of Mrs Redman who had agreed to board Miss Dawson. Mr Lascelles gave £50 and each of the three families donated £5 towards the timber costs. The department provided a bed and duchess for the room.

Classroom facilities included four desks and forms, each for seating five children; a table and chair for the teacher; a bell; blackboard and pointer; maps of the world and Australia; a chart with the Ten Commandments; a good manners chart (read every day); a few reading books; slates, pencils and rulers; and a couple of bibles from which the teacher read a lesson every Friday.

In 1923, residents began lobbying for a new state school and were supported by the District Inspector. The district had grown and children were having to share desks and even a box for a seat. The inspector also noted that there was very little space for play and drill.

In 1924, Mr E.G. Lascelles offered one acre of land for a school but this was deemed insufficient as the department believed a horse paddock would be necessary in the future for children riding their ponies to school. In 1925, an additional two acres was purchased from Mr Lascelles for £60. Delays and shortages meant that it was not until May 1926 that the school was completed at a cost of £900. Miss Maud Monaghan was the last teacher at the provisional school and the first teacher at the new state school which opened on June 7.

In 1932, Lethebrook residents built a hall adjacent to the school on land given by Mr Lascelles. Dances were staged to raise money for a tennis court with the department subsidising the cost. These dances were eagerly anticipated. An orchestra played until the early hours; lighting was provided by hanging kerosene lanterns and later lights operated by farmers’ generators; suppertime food was plentiful and tea and coffee were made over an open fire.

Marbles, hopscotch, rounders, tiggy, skipping and later tennis, were popular schoolyard games. Banana Pocket students also trained hard for the annual combined school sports day in Proserpine.

Although the name of this district was changed from Banana Pocket to Lethebrook in 1924, the name of the school did not change until 1948.

In the 1950s, Fancy Dress Balls were popular annual fundraisers. The annual concert was also one of the biggest affairs at the school but Break-Up Day was the most anticipated of all. Sack races and other novelty races were fiercely competitive; there was much mischief afoot with watermelon fights and boys putting ice down girls’ backs; and special treats such as ice cream and other goodies were readily devoured.

After serving the Lethebrook District for over 40 years, the school was closed on Friday, June 12, 1964.

Contributed with thanks to the Proserpine Museum.

Banana Pocket students in 1924 with their teacher Miss Blanche Gilmore

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A high-production value television series has put out the call for extras ahead of filming in both Airlie Beach and Proserpine.

The Stan Original Series, Black Snow – a classic whodunnit combining coming-of-age drama with gripping mystery – will shoot in our region from June through to August.

The show, produced by Goalpost Television, is set in the fictional town of Ashford in 2019. It follows revelations brought to light in the unearthing of a time capsule, which turns the 1994 cold case murder of seventeen-year-old Jasmine Baker into an active investigation.

Detective James Cormack is now hot on the heels of the killer.

Mackay and Whitsunday Life will be given exclusive access to the set of the production once filming begins in June.

The Queensland-made, six-part drama series has an estimated $10 million injection into the state economy during filming, as well as creating around 550 jobs for Queenslanders.

The extras callout was made for backpacker types, police officer look-alikes, teachers, tradies and more.

They are also seeking Australian South Sea Islander people and those of First Nations and Torres Strait Islander descent – two groups intrinsically linked to the story, with the murder of Jasmine Baker sending ripples through Ashford’s South Sea Islander community.

Creator and writer Lucas Taylor said he was excited to be working on the story that is “deeply rooted in North Queensland and its history.”

“North Queensland is a dramatic backdrop for Black Snow’s mystery to unfold – a place of stunning beauty that is hiding dark secrets,” said Taylor.  

“This uniquely Queensland story could not have happened without the support of Screen Queensland, who have also been instrumental in my career development for a number of years now.”

Screen Queensland CEO Kylie Munnich said that Black Snow “delves into the history of the Australian South Sea Islander community in Queensland in a way that has not been explored on screen before.”

“[We’re committed to] uplifting under-represented voices both on-screen and behind-the-scenes,” Ms Munnich said.

Cameras will roll next month and production are still seeking all forms of extras for paid work.

To apply, email blacksnowproduction22@gmail.com with subject line LOCAL TV EXTRAS, a recent headshot (clear selfie of yourself), contact details, date of birth, location you live in and availability from June to August 2022.

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After almost two years of radio silence, an update for the $79 million dollar Whitsunday Skyway project was announced to the region’s tourism operators last Thursday.

The cable-car project would link Airlie Beach’s main street with a Summit Station located within the Conway National Park and was rejuvenated post Cyclone Debbie when Minister for Tourism at the time, The Honourable Kate Jones, identified a real need for mainland infrastructure and financially supported a feasibility on this catalytic project.

This week, after the last major announcement two years ago in 2020 when Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk promised a contribution by state government to the project, the Whitsunday Skyway was again brought to the fore.

The business, Whitsunday Skyway, is progressing under an exclusive transaction process with the state government, and information shared was limited.

Australian Adventure Tourism Group (AATG) are the company spearheading the project.

AATG Executive Chair Elizabeth Hackett announced that, after years of lobbying and silent behind the scenes work, the Skyway has a government commitment. This commitment comes with many conditions.

“There has not been a day, over the five years, that we have not worked on Whitsunday Skyway as a company. The Project is more developed than our community are aware of; we are working through an extensive approvals process,” Ms Hackett said.

Those approvals include addressing Queensland Environmental Department concerns and matters associated with the revoking of national park land.

“The question is: is this now a reality? the answer is: yes, it is,” Ms Hackett said.

The 1-kilometre-long cableway is planned to lead to the summit behind Magnums Backpackers in the Conway National Park and has been compared to the New Zealand’s Queenstown Skyline.

“It is a very similar project, but our point of difference is a strong Indigenous component, which will be educational, with a lot of interactive activities,” Ms Hackett said.

“To date, we have been working with the [Traditional owners] – we have been welcomed, and we are now working on Native Title and Cultural Heritage Issues which are essential to ensure all parties are represented.”

The value of the project is, at the latest feasibility as of May 26, at $79 million dollars of capital investment into the region.

So far, Australian Adventure Tourism Group have financed the project and will finance the next stage, which will see the Skyway, in two years’ time, shovel ready if they can secure the necessary government approvals.

Ms Hackett said it would be twelve to eighteen-month build from that point.

The model is a concessionaire model – akin to Hamilton Island – where a public interest project is mobilised by private capital and know-how.

Ms Hackett said VAA, an independent Advisor, have cited Whitsunday Skyway upon completion will have 140 full time equivalent jobs. The indirect jobs on completion are projected to be 591 jobs per annum.

The regional benefit in increased length of stay equates to $56 million dollars per annum, and regional benefit for increased visitation 115,000 visitors, equating to $38.4 million per annum.

Mackay and Whitsunday Life understands the agreement in revoking national parkland is under the condition that suitable land would be offset – essentially traded at a 10 to one ratio, with that land needing to be of “higher ecological value.”

Councillor Al Grundy said that the AATG could likely purchase land further down the Brandy Creek tributary, handing that land to the Environmental Department to turn into national park.

The project is planned to host mountain bike trails, an interpretive centre, a food and beverage centre, adventure activities like rope courses for juniors, and of course the summit’s 360-degree views.

“It is absolutely stunning and what a waste that every tourist that comes to our town is not seeing [it],” Ms Hackett said.

The project was originally designed to offer tourists on-land opportunities away from the at-capacity Marine Park almost 20 years ago.

Queensland Government has made an election commitment of $1 million dollars to the project, currently in trust.

The Whitsunday Skyway project has been in the works since Cyclone Debbie, and if approvals are gained, the build time for the project could see it happen in 18 – 24 months form the time approvals are reached

Image: Supplied Whitsunday Skyway

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And suddenly, we have a new government. And suddenly we have a new local member. And suddenly its end of financial year. Blink and you can miss a lot – not to mention a new LNP leader and soon we will be discussing a new Whitsunday mayor.

Congratulations Andrew Willcox on your election win. Although on the opposition, we couldn’t ask for a more passionate, engaged and experienced representation at the Federal level. A representative who has dealt with local social issues for years in council, understands local business concerns, talks to pragmatic, sensible solutions and is absolutely constant and vocal advocate for the Whitsundays.

End of financial year is literally just around the corner and whilst we are all flat out coping with the day to day challenges of business, it would pay to take the opportunity to do some financial planning for 2023. There will be more challenges in supply chain issues, staffing concerns and rising cost of living which will need to be incorporated into pricing structures of every business.

Our June networking event will be the first in the format of "Coffee and Chat". June's C&C will have IDCARE in attendance - a national non-for- profit organisation that supports individuals and organisations who have concerns about cyber security or have been a victim of identity theft or a cybercrime.

This is the only service of its kind in the world and they will be bringing three info hubs with them for attendees to learn more about rending scams and online resilience. In addition to IDCARE, Bowen River Utilities will also be attending to speak about their current projects, in particular the Urannah Water Scheme

See you Monday June 13th, 7am at Coral Sea Marina (Meeting Point D) at the entrance to the lawn area

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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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