The Whitsunday region is officially one of the fastest growing in Queensland and myself and Councillors are committed to ensuring that every community has access to modern, functional spaces that meet residents’ needs. That’s why I’m thrilled to invite you to have Your Say on the proposed Collinsville Community Hub and Showgrounds Masterplan.

This transformative project, proudly funded by the Queensland Government’s Resources Community Infrastructure Fund, represents a $14.6 million investment in Collinsville’s future.

The proposed hub will bring together vital community facilities, including a library, customer service centre, shape-up shed, telecentre, meeting rooms and community hall, all within a consolidated, state-of-the-art space.

This project also includes a masterplan for the surrounding Showgrounds parkland to be delivered incrementally with future grant funding. The Masterplan will support the hub to create a vibrant, multifunctional space for residents and visitors alike. To make this vision a reality, we need your input.

I urge residents to share their thoughts by filling out a short online survey through our engagement portal, Your Say Whitsunday. Hard copies are also available at Council’s Customer Service Centres for your convenience.

To better understand the project, view our fact sheet and design pack online or pick up a copy at a Customer Service Centre.

This is your chance to shape the future of Collinsville. Your feedback will ensure that the Community Hub and Showgrounds Masterplan reflect the unique needs and aspirations of our community.
Whether you want to suggest improvements, highlight priorities, or simply show your support, your input is invaluable.

Don’t miss this opportunity to play a part in creating a community hub that will serve as a focal point for connection, learning, and recreation.

Let’s work together to make Collinsville an even better place to live, work, and enjoy.

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Seniors of Queensland are being targeted with a new scam that’s exploiting them for $30, for a free Senior's Card. Senior’s Cards are always free of charge and applicants are never requested to disclose their bank, credit card or PayPal details in exchange for membership.

The website to watch out for is called The Seniors Assistant: https://www.theseniorsassistant.com/ claiming to specialise in assistance for several senior–related applications including but not limited to, Senior’s Cards. The website has been tricking a growing number of older Queenslanders into paying for a card that the government gives out for free.

If you have made a payment to this illegal website, contact your bank immediately and make a report to Scamwatch, the Australian Government’s National Anti-Scam Centre. If you have fallen for this scam and disclosed your personal contact details or banking details, be aware of secondary scamming: you may be contacted by someone impersonating your bank. Be alert and hang up if you receive a call like that, and visit your local bank’s branch directly to confirm the call’s issue was legitimate.

If you would like to apply for a real and free Senior’s Card, there’s only one true website you should visit, and that’s the official Queensland Seniors Card website: www.qld.gov.au/seniorscard. Applicants should look for the official Queensland Government Seniors Card logo and know that an official Seniors Card will have your name, issue date and registration number on them, the fake ones do not have these but otherwise look near identical.

Again, if you have provided payment to an unofficial website, please contact your bank immediately.
For any other queries, contact the Queensland Government on 13 QGOV (13 74 68), remember the QLD Government are the only ones who can issue legitimate Seniors Cards, and they are FREE.

QLD MP Amanda Camm holding a fake Senior’s Card. Photo Sourced: Amanda Camm’s Facebook page.
What an official Seniors Card looks like. Photo Sourced: Queensland Government website

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With the number of people calling in at the Big Mango increasing each year, so is the range of merchandise available at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre right next door.
The team at Bowen Tourism and Business welcomed more than 52,000 people last year and they are always keen to meet the needs of all those travellers. Manager Leanne Abernethy said the merchandise range had been expanded again to include a new range of polo shirts and fishing shirts as well as new aprons and tea towels.
“We talk to a lot of travellers every week of the year and we take notice of any suggestions they have – verbally, via customer surveys and the online reviews,” Leanne said.
“When it was time to place the latest order, we decided it was time to change the design and the colour. The new shirts have already proved very popular.”
The team also introduced a new range of aprons and tea-towels recently because they listened to the caravanners who wanted to replace these types of items with a memento from somewhere they have been. The Centre also now offers products from the “Big Things of Oz” range, including magnets, stubby holders, stickers, jigsaw puzzles, postcards and tea-towels. These fun memorabilia all include a map of Australia showing where all the “Big Things” are located.
The Bowen Visitor Information Centre is right next to the iconic Big Mango, on the Bruce Highway just 5km south of Bowen. Local residents are encouraged to call in to see what is on offer, and of course enjoy a delicious mango sorbet or ice cream.

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Bowen Tourism and Business team members Cindy Tonks and Glenn Womal proudly don the new Bowen fishing shirts.

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A juvenile joyride traffic incident involving a stolen vehicle has left both the Whitsundays and Burdekin communities on high alert following an almost 24-hour ordeal.

A white Hyundai hatchback was reported stolen from an address close to Home Hill State School the morning of Monday the 20th of January. Locals took to online platforms to demand harsher consequences for offenders with many members of the community saddened to learn the car belonged to a Home Hill grandmother. 
 
Reports have emerged of witnesses sighting the stolen vehicle driving recklessly at around 11pm on Monday night around Soldiers and Horseshoe Bay Road in Bowen, with locals warning their neighbours to take precaution and sharing CCTV footage online. 
 
“Warning Bowen residents – there is a stolen car from Ayr making its way around Bowen, a white hatchback, lock your cars and doors, police have been notified,” shared one concerned Bowen resident. 

The five offenders aged 13, 14, 15, 17 and 18, then drove the stolen car back along the Bruce Highway and home to the Burdekin before crashing into an Alva Beach electricity pole at around 5:30am.

“The group of five allegedly left the scene on foot and attempted to evade police but were arrested a short time later at a local caravan park,” a QPS spokeswoman said. 
 
A 13-year-old Home Hill girl, a 14-year-old Home Hill boy, a 15-year-old Home Hill girl, and a 17-year-old Home Hill girl were all charged with one count of unlawful use of a motor vehicle – use in company and appeared in the Ayr Children’s Court on Wednesday the 29th of January. 
 
The fifth offender, an 18-year-old Home Hill man has been charged with one count each of unlawful use of a motor vehicle – use in company, possessing dangerous drugs, possessing utensils or pipes that had been used and breach of bail offences. He is due to appear in the Ayr Magistrates Court on Monday the 10th of February. 

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The car was left extremely damaged after the ordeal

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Burnout used to be the workplace experience we all tried to manage and avoid. In 2025, it’s Change Fatigue.

Change fatigue is feeling exhausted or overwhelmed in response to organisational changes. Covid-19 was when we first started noticing this phenomenon as businesses pivoted left and right to keep up with ever-changing government policies, protocols and requirements.

Today we are being bombarded with constantly shifting workplace flexibility & hybrid work policies, AI technology, keeping ahead of competitors, 4 different generations co-working for first time in history, as well as living in the ‘woke’ generation and trying desperately to stay relevant in an ever-changing landscape.

If you haven’t been paying attention and wondering why your team seems so unmotivated at the moment, here’s some suggestions on how to manage change fatigue:
   • Take a beat – acknowledge the change and the angst it may cause
   • Celebrate the changes the team has navigated so far
   • Discuss why the change is needed – provide purpose
   • Understand – uncertainty is anxiety-inducing so be compassionate and patient
   • Plan – create a plan on how to implement and manage the change
   • Communicate – at the heart of every workplace stress is usually subpar communication

If you’ve recognised that someone in your team is experiencing change fatigue:
   1. Schedule a 1:1.
   2. Acknowledge the journey they’ve been on.
   3. Discuss how they may have benefitted from these changes (growth mindset vs fixed mindset)
   4. Celebrate their growth
   5. Discuss how to improve the planning & communication on future changes

The only constant is change; how are you helping your team manage constant change?

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The good volunteers at the Whitsunday VMR service have had a busy few days. From stingers to sinking boats, they were on the case in the worst of the weather, teaming up with paramedics to ensure the safety of everyone they rescued.

It’s stinger season, and no one should be swimming in the Whitsunday area without a suit. A yachting group paid heed to this and wore them while swimming off the back of their boat but afterwards took them off for a leisurely stroll down the beach. To cool off they romped in the ankle-deep water and the result? One badly stung chest and more than two hours of absolute agony! Fortunately, the VMR team had paramedics on board who were able to administer morphine and the man survived.

Another rescue that happened close to shore was when the VMR team were called to assist a sinking plate boat and its occupants who were stranded on the beach. While the rescue situation appeared simple at first, the boat surprised everyone when it upended and sank to the bottom.

Scratching their heads about that, the team headed off to perform another rescue on the other side of Whitsunday Island. It was tough going as everyone was soaked due a storm creating rough seas and heavy rain. But thunder and lightning did not stop this rescue mission, and after five hours on the water the dedicated crew returned to home base, having rescued all the people and recovered and towed the two boats back to safety.

The skipper that day was Ken Bryce. He is a master 4, with a lot of around the world sailing experience. He brings an enormous depth of skill to our rescues and quite frankly there is no one else you would want to be relying on more in a marine emergency. Of course, he never works alone, and leads a dedicated team, helping people stay out of trouble in the water.

These include those working behind the scenes like radio-operator and fundraisers, without whose efforts VMR could not be put to sea. It’s tough finding volunteers, so if you would like to join the team, please go to the VMR Whitsunday website and sign up. Visit https://vmrwhitsundays.com.au/volunteer/ to learn more and start your marine rescue journey.

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The plate boat sinking just off-shore. Photo provided: Shane Newell

Rescuers trying to hitch a tow on the sinking plate boat. Photo provided: Shane Newell

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The Whitsundays have long been celebrated for their stunning landscapes, particularly their pristine beaches. It’s no surprise, then, that Whitehaven Beach on Whitsunday Island has recently been named the best beach in the world for 2025 by Lonely Planet, beating out a host of international contenders.
With its iconic white silica sands stretching over 7km, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and breathtaking panoramic views, Whitehaven continues to captivate visitors from around the globe. This recognition marks yet another accolade for the beach, underscoring its unparalleled beauty.
Whitehaven Beach is not just stunning—it's a paradise for all kinds of activities! Whether you want to swim, relax in the sun, hike, camp, snap photos, try out water sports, or spot wildlife, there's something for everyone. It’s a picture-perfect destination for a beach day and offers breathtaking views at every turn.
Local Mayor Ry Collins took to Facebook to express his pride, calling the award a testament to just how extraordinary Whitehaven is.
He further congratulated everyone who contributed to supporting the recognition:
“Well done to those that contribute to supporting this recognition including our tourism operators and body, national parks officers and the broader community.”
Whitehaven Beach, overtook, beaches like squeaky beach in Victoria and Anse Sourse d’Argent, La Digue in the Seychelles.

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Mayor Ry Collins and his family at Whitehaven Beach
Whitehaven beach named Worlds Best Beach

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The story of Betty Hazel Watts and a life committed to excellence in learning began with her birth in Proserpine on July 21 1928. After attending primary school at Proserpine State School, she completed her secondary education at Blackheath College, Charters Towers.  For eight years, commencing in 1946, aged only 17, Betty began teaching in primary schools in Brisbane and in various country centres including Proserpine. During this time, she completed Bachelor Degrees in Arts and Education through external study while teaching fulltime. She also gained letters in LTCL with honours in Art of Speech.
Between 1954 and 1974, Betty held many prominent positions in the field of education. She was appointed Senior Research Assistant at University of Queensland (1954 – 1956); Lecturer in Education (1957 -1965); Senior Lecturer in Education (1966-1971); Reader at Schonell Educational Research Centre (1972 -1974) and from 1974-1981 she was Professor and Director of the Centre.

It is not surprising, then, that in 1976 she was awarded the Order of the British Empire (O.B.E.) for service to education.  

Betty Watts was a Foundation Member of the Queensland Board of Teacher Education (now College of Teacher Registration). Serving from 1977-1988, she was one of the longest serving members having held the position for all but two years of its existence; including three terms serving as Chairman.

Further acknowledgement of her ongoing contribution was recognised in 1982, when Betty was awarded the Mackie Medal for distinguished work in the field of education.

Betty Watts was a forerunner in the movement to close the gap in educational outcomes between European and indigenous children and a foundation member of the Australian Institute of Aboriginal Studies, acting as a consultant to State and Federal governments on Aboriginal Education. During her ‘spare’ time as Dean of University of Queensland Department of Education, she published nine separate reports on the education of Aboriginal children, non-English speaking migrants and children with disabilities. These reports were based on primary research which involved interviews and discussions with parents in their own homes where they could relax and voice their true concerns. She would say, “School practices need to take account of what children’s homes and parents are really like.”

From 1976 – 1981, Betty chaired the Ministerial Advisory Council on Special Education and was a member of the National Inquiry into Teacher Education (The Auchmuty Report) from 1979 - 1982.

She was also a member of the National Library Council and such was the esteem in which she was held, that she was invited to open the new library at James Cook University in 1992.

After her retirement, Betty Watts OBE was awarded Life Membership of the Australian Association for Research in Education (AARE) in recognition of her enormous contribution to the field of education and how important her work was viewed by her academic contemporaries.

In 2011, fifteen years after her death, a memorial award - The Professor Betty Watts Award for Outstanding Contributions to Teaching – was made in her name.  Betty Watts helped so many people, particularly from vulnerable and disadvantaged groups. For her, education was for everyone. In the tribute to her at this award, Betty Watts was described as a “brilliant teacher” who had high expectations of her students and whose lessons sparked a “sense of excitement”.

Betty Watts died November 25 1997. She was only 69 and had dedicated over fifty years of her life to the people of Queensland as a teacher, lecturer, researcher and leader in education. Betty Watts truly earned the title “Emeritus”. This town can be immensely proud of one of its most celebrated daughters.

Story courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum. Photo courtesy of the Shannon family.

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Lovely Raffi is a 2–3-year-old male cat who is best in a quiet, calm home. Like us all, he loves his peace so he would love a house with no children, loud noises or fast people.

Raffi is a gentle soul, so will need time to adjust to his new home, as he loves treats, some nice snacks will help him to do this.

However, once settled, Raffi is the most loving and affectionate companion, once he feels safe, he will sit and lay with you all day, including having the odd playful spurt.

Are you looking for a relaxed but loving companion who needs a little TLC? If the answer is yes, Raffi is your man.

To find out more about Raffi call or email Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue:

Phone: 0459 757 455
Facebook: Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue
Email: bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com

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On the night of the 22nd of January, a power outage occurred causing a disruption to the water levels in the Bowen Reservoir. The Whitsunday Regional Council has put out a social media post alerting residents of the issue, along with providing reassurance of the safety of the water coming out of their taps.
Power outages can cause the water supply systems to stop operating and breakdown. The water pumps can shut down and water distribution systems can go offline if they do not a receive constant electrical supply. Also, a dam or reservoir can lose pressure because of an outage because of lowered water levels, hence why one of the procedures being conducted was refilling the reservoir.
The disruption has caused changes to the water supply such as discolouration and fluctuations in water pressure. This was to affect the residents in Bowen and the surrounding areas over the coming hours as the Bowen Reservoir underwent critical maintenance and refilling procedures.
The Council wished everyone to know that the water, though slightly discoloured, was still safe for consumption and general use. They apologised for any inconvenience the power outage and reservoir disruption had caused, while they undertook the critical works to bring the reservoir back to full function.

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Two beautiful, giant water tanks that supply water to Bowen below. Photo Credit: Isaac Newman

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The Queensland Gives Photo Challenge has begun with entry opening Saturday the 1st of February. The winning entry will receive a $500 prize and a donation of $2000 made to the charity of their choice.
Photographers of all levels anywhere in Queensland are encouraged to enter and show what giving and kindness look like through your lens.
The Photo Challenge is the perfect way for photographers, community groups and non-profit organisations to tell their stories and share their work. Entries can be realistic or conceptual, specific or broad, taken by anyone as long as you are a resident or organisation operating in Queensland.
If you are on social media, promote the challenge and share the love by tagging @QueenslandGives and using the hashtag #2025photochallenge when posting your photos. Multiple entries are accepted and the winning entry will be announced at the Queensland Philanthropy Week Launch at Parliament House in Brisbane on Monday the 2nd of June 2025.
It's time to pick up your camera or smart phone and capture an act of giving, kindness, doing good or to highlight a specific cause or issue affecting Queenslanders. Queensland Gives Chief Executive Officer Tara Castle said the Photo Challenge had produced hundreds of stunning and heartwarming images which captured the good work of Queenslanders over its history.

“Our state is home to thousands of unsung heroes who generously give their time and love to help others, and we are looking for images that capture that spirit of care and compassion.”

To enter, simply submit a photograph to the Queensland Gives website www.queenslandgives.org.au/photochallenge make sure it matches the photo requirements first. The competition closes on the 28th of February at Midnight so get out there and get snapping!

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WHAT: Queensland Gives Photo Challenge
WHEN: February 1st – 28th
WHERE: Queensland-Wide

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Last year Tourism Whitsundays had the pleasure of working with Virgin Australia and their PR agency, PEPR, to showcase the beauty of the Whitsundays to a wide audience. As part of this initiative, Tourism Whitsundays hosted six talented journalists in our stunning region, giving them a firsthand experience of what makes this place so special.

“We’re thrilled to see their coverage rolling out in prominent publications, inspiring Australians far and wide to discover our slice of paradise,” shared Rosanagh Gallivan, Tourism Whitsundays PR and Social Media Executive.

RUSSH Magazine’s guide highlights the top places to stay, eat, and explore, while Australian Geographic shares an incredible four-day itinerary for visitors of all kinds. The Sydney Morning Herald’s Traveller section offers tips on enjoying Queensland’s dreamiest region on a budget.

These stories, made possible by the collaboration and support of local operators, shine a spotlight on the Whitsundays unique charm and experiences.

“We’d like to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to this successful campaign,” added Rosanagh.

“Your dedication helps ensure that our region remains a must-visit destination and helps share the Whitsundays magic with travellers from all over the world.”

To read the full articles, check out RUSSH, Australian Geographic and the SMH Traveller sections online.

Contributed by Rosanagh Gallivan, PR & Social Media Executive, Tourism Whitsundays

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The Journalists enjoying what the Whitsundays has to offer. Photo supplied.

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Looking for the perfect spot to escape with friends or family? Let Tourism Whitsundays introduce or perhaps re-introduce you to Whitsunday Terraces Resort - where comfort, space, and stunning views come together to make your trip truly unforgettable.

The Interconnecting Dual Key rooms are a game-changer. Picture this: two kitchenettes, two bathrooms, and 2.5 balconies, all designed to give you and your crew plenty of room to spread out and enjoy. Whether you're whipping up a meal together, lounging on the balcony with a drink in hand, or just relaxing in your spacious retreat, these rooms offer the perfect balance of togetherness and privacy.

Ideal for families or groups, sleeping six people, everyone gets their own space without ever feeling cramped. It's the kind of place where you can have your own little slice of paradise yet still be right there with the people you love most. Plus, the views? Absolutely breathtaking.

So, grab your family, your best friends, or both, and get ready for a Whitsundays escape that’s all about making memories together. Because the only thing better than paradise is sharing it - without stepping on each other’s toes.

Contributed by Jade Yvonne, Business Development Executive, Tourism Whitsundays

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Whitsunday Terraces Resort. Photo supplied.

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Two lives have been lost on Mackay and Whitsunday roads in just one month, marking a tragic start to 2025. Authorities are pleading with all drivers to slow down, drive defensively, and stay vigilant. The recent fatalities are part of a growing road crisis across Queensland, with road deaths doubling compared to last year. Every decision made on the road can be the difference between life and death.

The Queensland Police Service urges everyone to pay attention to road conditions, act cautiously, and help prevent further heartbreak and loss.

“These tragic numbers are not just statistics, they represent fathers, mothers, sons, daughters, and friends whose lives have been cut short,” said Acting Chief Superintendent Garrath Channells of QPS Road Policing and Regional Support Command.

“We’re pleading with every road user to make the right choices, because every decision you make on the road has the power to save a life or take one.”  

Mackay Whitsundays District Acting Inspector Jeremy Novosel emphasised the importance of driving to road conditions.

“We have had two fatalities this year in the Mackay and Whitsunday district, and we really implore that all road users travel safely and get to their destinations,” he said.

A 67-year-old motorcyclist from Roma lost his life after a traffic crash on the Bruce Highway near Mount Ossa earlier this week. He was airlifted to Mackay Base Hospital by BMA CQ Rescue. Photo credit: BMA CQ Rescue

Then use the head / shoulders of the police man in a circle on the front...

Caption: Mackay Whitsundays District Acting Inspector Jeremy Novosel

QPS Urges Safer Driving After Deadliest Start To The Year Since 2020

The first tragedy struck on the 7th of January when Ooralea father, Nick Evangelista, 58, was killed in a crash on Hay Point Road, Alligator Creek. Police allege that a speeding driver of a black Holden ute lost control, veering into the opposite lane and colliding with Mr. Evangelista's silver Kia. The driver of the ute reportedly tested positive to a roadside breath test.

Just two weeks later, on the 20th of January, a 67-year-old motorcyclist from Roma lost his life following a traffic crash on the Bruce Highway near Mount Ossa. According to police investigations, the man attempted to overtake a truck but lost traction, causing the motorcycle to crash into the truck. He sustained critical injuries and was rushed to Mackay Base Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

Inspector Novosel urged drivers to remain cautious, particularly in adverse conditions.

“We need to drive defensively, particularly where it is a situation that roads are affected by rainfall or other environmental circumstances, and we need to pay attention to road conditions and other road users,” he said.

The tragedies in Mackay and Whitsundays reflect a broader state-wide crisis. QPS data shows that more than 15 people have lost their lives on Queensland roads so far this year, which is more than double the toll for the same period in 2024.

“These tragic numbers are not just statistics, they represent fathers, mothers, sons, daughters, and friends whose lives have been cut short,” said Acting Chief Superintendent Garrath Channells of QPS Road Policing and Regional Support Command.

“Police are out there doing everything they can on the roads to try and bring this figure down and ensure people can return home to loved ones or their families.

“To then observe the deadliest start to the year since 2020 is truly harrowing.

“We’re pleading with every road user to make the right choices, because every decision you make on the road has the power to save a life or take one.”  

The BMA CQ Rescue helicopter has already been called to assist with several serious incidents this year, including a multi-vehicle crash on the Peak Downs Highway earlier in January. While no fatalities were reported from that incident, one person was airlifted to Mackay in a critical condition, underscoring the need for extra vigilance on the roads.

To learn more about road safety and QPS’s initiatives to help make Queensland’s roads safer, visit: www.police.qld.gov.au/initiatives/road-safety

Mackay Whitsundays District Acting Inspector Jeremy Novosel. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

The BMA CQ Rescue helicopter has responded to several serious incidents this year, including a multi-vehicle crash on the Peak Downs Highway in January. While no fatalities occurred, one person was airlifted to Mackay in critical condition. Photo Source: BMA CQ Rescue

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Australia Day has long been a paradoxical holiday—both a celebration of national pride and a poignant reminder of history’s complexities. This year, as a wave of national pride resurges, Australians are seeking ways to honour the day with a mindful balance that respects its layered meanings.

For many, January 26 is a day to fire up the barbecue, toss a cricket ball, and celebrate what it means to be Australian: our laid-back nature, a love for community, and a determination to thrive despite the odds. Yet, for Indigenous Australians, the date carries a weight of history that cannot be ignored—a story of dispossession and resilience.

The growing dialogue around Australia Day reflects a more nuanced national identity. The rise in thoughtful gestures, such as holding morning acknowledgments of country or participating in Indigenous-led events, shows that pride and respect can coexist. It’s not about rewriting history but embracing its lessons to unite rather than divide.

After all, isn’t the great Aussie spirit about finding creative compromises?

We’ve mastered the art of vegemite toast (a little goes a long way), so surely, we can manage a national day that celebrates diversity while fostering understanding.

We have a huge Australia Day event guide on pages 18 and 19 in this week’s edition. I’m keen to give Bridge a go, and if the weather’s good, I can see our family participating in some of the fun events planned at our local beaches. The Two Maoris are playing at Harbour Beach, which would be a nice blend of heritage for our little family.

Whether you're lighting up the barbecue or reflecting by the beach, remember that Australia thrives on its contradictions—kangaroos that don’t hop backward, football codes no one else understands, and the ability to hold two truths at once.

It’s what makes us, well, us.

Amanda

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