Ergon Energy greeted Airlie Beach residents with news they were set to invest $27.5 million into the local network.

The state-owned electrical company said that the Whitsunday’s role as a tourism hub for North Queensland meant the demand for electricity in the area is growing, creating the need for a major project to bolster the region’s electricity supply.

“The Whitsundays is growing and we’re growing with you,” The Ergon Statement reads.

“This project will refurbish and expand the Cannonvale substation and duplicate key sections of the 66,000-volt underground cable network between the Cannonvale substation and Shute Harbour, providing greater network resilience.”

Ergon said this investment will increase the network’s capacity and improve the security of the electricity supply for 8,000 homes and businesses.

The company has said the existing Cannonvale substation control building across from Banjos Bar and the Whitsunday Shopping Centre will remain, with an additional modular building to be built on the site closer to TAFE.

The duplicated underground cabling will “where possible” run adjacent to the existing line, but with development in the area having progressed significantly since that initial installation, the line route options may be different.

“We’ll be able to provide more information after our detailed design is completed,” the statement reads.

The works on the substation will commence in the third quarter of 2022 and the fourth quarter of the year for the duplication through Cannonvale, Jubilee Pocket, Mt Rooper, and Shute Harbour substations.

Completion is expected by the end of 2023.

More information can be found at https://bit.ly/3K5tt6s

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Our local region will be in the spotlight once again when talented singer-songwriter, Karen Jacobsen, films three destination focused music videos right here in the Whitsundays.

Launching her new album on May 22, she will be filming the videos next week and has received a $9,000 grant from Whitsunday Regional Council to contribute to production costs.

Famous for being the Australian voice of Siri and the Destination Ambassador for the Whitsundays, Karen was originally from Mackay and spent the last 20 years living in New York.

In search of a safe haven during the pandemic, she brought her family back to Australia and ventured up to her home region, falling in love with the Whitsundays once again.

Dedicating much of her time to promoting the area, driving tourism where possible and championing cultural development, Karen has become a sophisticated mascot for all that shines in the Whitsundays.

Using her song-writing skills to further promote the region, she has filmed music videos on Hayman Island and at Coral Sea Resort.

Next week she will be filming two music videos for her new album.

The first song entitled, You Are The Greatest, will feature the Airlie Foreshore and show footage of Karen travelling along the boardwalk in a pedi-cab.

The next song and title track to the new album is The Slipstream and has special meaning for Karen.

“For a long time, I was looking around at the success that other people were having and it seemed like they managed to find some slipstream of energy and then everything just worked – it seemed so easy for them,” she said.

“I was trying very hard and wondering why I wasn’t experiencing that, and this song is really about that state of desperation and feeling lost.

“There came a point for me when I realised there wasn’t something that I’ve got to go and find out there, it is something I can find in here.

“I went from thinking, what’s here for us? To, what can I provide here?”

The filming for this video takes place with the industrial backdrop of Proserpine Sugar Mill, the quintessential country stage of the cane fields, and then finishes on the Cape Hillsborough beach at dawn with the wallabies.

Karen will be wearing a custom-made golden gown by Jason Chetcuti.

“This is a very fresh delivery of the tourism messaging,” said Karen.

“They are a lasting piece of artwork that capture a moment in time with original music and I am absolutely delighted that Whitsunday Regional Council sees the benefit.”

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Jetstar Pilot James Spruce has piloted flights to international and domestic locations across the globe, but his first landing at home in Proserpine last week was the most momentous he’s had so far.

His 94-year-old grandfather, Herbert ‘Jack’ Spruce, looked on as James landed the Airbus A320 on the Proserpine runway with proud tears in his eyes - having given James the flying bug as a young boy, Jack was seeing his grandson live his dream.

Jack and James Spruce’s affinity for flying has always been common ground, with Jack taking his grandson for his first flight at the age of 14, strapping the teenager into his light plane.

Watching his grandson land the Airbus A320 onto the Whitsunday Coast Airport strip as a professional was an emotional outing for the once amateur aviator.

In his flying days, Jack was known as “Spruce Goose”, and the now 94-year-old has lived in the Proserpine Nursing Home for the last 13 years, having had a major stroke which left him unable to communicate verbally.

A lifelong sugarcane farmer, Jack was an avid aero sportsman, flying light planes for fun on weekends and holding the position of Vice President at the Proserpine Aero Club.

Jack had often taken James out to see the Boeing 737s and James remembers his grandad saying, “If I had my time again, that’s what I’d be doing”, and James is now “living the dream” for his grandad having become a commercial pilot for Jetstar.

“It was those words that really stuck with me as a young boy,” James said.

“Ever since I became a professional pilot, I’ve always had a dream to return here and have him out on the tarmac and see me fly in in a large jet.”

Jack’s daughter Jacqueline organised the occasion which saw Jack out on the tarmac watching as his grandson flew into Proserpine for the first time ever.

“For dad to still be alive at nearly 94 to see this moment is very momentous,” Jacqueline Spruce said.

“He basically gave James the flying bug, because dad would come out to do competitions for flying and take James with him in the plane.”

The whole family came out to watch on the day, including Jack’s other son Kenneth Spruce.

James said that the feeling when he saw his grandad on the tarmac was emotional, beyond words, and “absolutely nuts”.

“Proserpine airport in particular is a bit different for pilots; so, you go back to the basics, stick and rudder kind of skills and manual flight, so landing here and having him see it – hopefully having him approving it was smooth – it was beyond words,” James said.

“I get to tell him about my flying escapades now, just like he did when I was a boy; I get to share that with him.”

A family portrait of Jack Spruce (Front), his daughter Jacqueline, and his son Kenneth with his wife Suzanne Spruce

Kenneth and his dad Jack heading to greet James on the stairs of the Airbus A320

It was a teary reunion between Jack and James on the Whitsunday Coast Airport

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The community are in mourning following the sudden death of 28-year-old Jed Farraway who tragically lost his life during a boating accident at Port Alma (south of Rockhampton) on Sunday.

The Jubilee Pocket man, who was originally from Calliope near Gladstone was known affectionately by friends as ‘Filthy’ - he was a Ringer by trade but had been currently working for a local concrete company.

Remembered as an adventurous and spirited soul, Jed will be missed by all who knew him.

VALE JED FARRAWAY

An avid fisherman, Jed Farraway was returning to Port Alma boat ramp on Sunday, April 3 at around 7am with three friends when the vessel is thought to have hit a marker buoy and flipped over.

One man in his 20’s was flown to Rockhampton Hospital in a serious condition, another man also in his 20’s was treated for leg and back injuries, while the third man in his 30’s was treated for chest, leg and facial injuries.

Jed was reported missing at 7.53am.

The Coast Guard chopper, Water Police and Marine Assist Rescue began a lengthy search of site following the incoming tide to upstream to look in nearby creeks.

Many local boaties joined the desperate search, and it was one of Jed’s friends who found him in the water near the site of the accident at 5pm.

Jed is survived by his mother and father, Lieth and Gavin Farraway

One of his closest friends and adventure companions was Scott Pocock who had known Jed for eight years and lived with him for five of those, regularly returning to Jed’s family home for Christmas.

The pair travelled Australia together, mustering at large cattle stations and living a free-spirited life on the land.

“He hated sitting still – if anyone ever mentioned anything about an adventure – he was there!” said Scott.

“There was not a day that would go by that he wasn’t doing anything – he would walk into a room and within 30 minutes he’d have the whole room doing tequila shots and dancing – he could lift anyone’s mood.”

Known for enjoying the outdoors lifestyle, Jed loved fishing, hunting and catching bulls – he had 11,000 people on instagram and 4000 people on Facebook following his adventures and captured many of his amazing achievements with photos.

When reminiscing about their wild adventures, Scott and Jed had often discussed how lucky they were to still be alive and remarked on the chances of not surviving until their 30’s, words that have tragically come true for Jed.

“I remember him saying – ‘if I die don’t let Mum and Dad cry for me, I’ve lived a full life’ – he wouldn’t want anyone to be upset, just have fun for him and live their lives to the full,” said Scott.

Jed’s girlfriend, Terri-anne Buckleigh, echoed this sentiment in a Facebook post.

“I am going to live my life to the fullest just like you did and make you proud, Baby!

“I am so, so incredibly grateful for all of the love you have shown me, the amazing adventures we have been on - you have brought so much light to so many lives, and I know there are a lot of heavy hearts right now.”

Friends have set up a GoFundMe page in Jed’s honour with proceeds going directly towards the VMR and Capricornia Rescue Helicopter – so far they have raised almost $15,000.

Jed and his best mate Scott

Playing for his hometown Calliope Roosters

Surfing with girlfriend Terri-anne Buckleigh

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Experiencing the islands is a quintessential part of visiting or living near the Whitsunday region.

People flock to see the crystal-clear waters, stark-white beaches, and unspoiled bushland atop the rugged peaks of rock.

There are a bevy of options available for people seeking this serene experience, but there are not many better than Sealink’s Whitehaven Beach Big Island Day Tour.

Excitement is high as tour goers of all ages board the classy catamaran at Shute Harbour Marine Terminal.

People roam between the three levels that make up Nancy Wake, the 29 metre catamaran that will traverse the islands – guests can decide between the air-conditioned comfort inside or enjoy the 360-degree vistas of the al fresco top level.

As the boat departs at 9am and weaves through Daydream, Molle, and Cid Islands, the skipper tells the story of the islands through the loudspeaker, thus beginning a day of informative adventure facilitated by friendly, vibrant, and knowledgeable crewmembers.

The vessel starts its circumnavigation of Whitsunday Island towards the first stop of the tour, Hill Inlet lookout; if you’ve seen photos of Whitehaven Beach, they were probably taken from here.

The view is vast and dreamlike and sea life can even be spotted in the depths below.

The next stop is the iconic Whitehaven Beach, where the sand’s magical white sheen can be attributed to the 98.9 per cent pure silica it consists of.

Here, passengers have the option of walking to another lookout, playing some beach sport, swimming, or simply lounging in the sun, and there is plenty of time for all of the above.

The lookout provides vistas that ever-so-slightly surpass the beauty of the first lookout, and the water is so clear and invigorating that it’s near impossible to get out when the time inevitably comes.

After leaving Whitehaven, the boat heads around the south of Whitsunday Island past the high rises of Hamilton Island, making the rooftop observation deck the place to be, to take in the impressive views.

Complimenting the tour is a terrific variety of food provided, including muffins and fruit for morning tea, meat and salads for lunch, and an Instagram-worthy cheese platter perfect for finishing off the day with a cold drink from the fully licensed bar.

Nancy Wake docks back at Shute Harbour at 5pm, ending an inspiring yet relaxing day on the water that is a must for anyone in the region.

Sealink’s modern vessel is the epitome of style and comfort

Whitehaven Beach is a sight to behold. Pictures supplied

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Grapevine Group’s training coordinator Edie Weiss had been awarded the highly regarded LiFE Award by national body Suicide Prevention Australia for her outstanding contribution to the Queensland community.

Some of Ms Weiss’ significant contributions include personally training more than 5000 people in suicide prevention through 164 safeTALK sessions, coordinating Grapevine Group’s 3-hour safeTALK training and the 2-day ASIST Intervention training for Run for MI Life.

Ms Weiss has worked as a guidance officer for St Patrick’s College and Catholic Education, volunteered as a Lifeline Crisis worker and contributed over 30 years to suicide prevention activities.

Ms Weiss has also devised her own toolbox presentation called Suicide Mythbusters which gives an introduction on the signs to look for, where best to find help and the skills to be able to support those experiencing suicidal thoughts. Her extensive experience with Lifeline and in the education sector has provided her a strong background to develop this extra tool for Grapevine’s suicide prevention arsenal.

“Edie’s work is exceptional in this field,” said Grapevine president Debbie Knight.

“She is so humble about the things she’s done and achieved as a volunteer that she probably wouldn’t want us to make a fuss over this special recognition.

“We should make a fuss though because she’s an inspiration with an incredible commitment that has undoubtedly saved many lives,” Ms Knight said.

This is the third time the Grapevine Group has been recognised with Suicide Prevention Australia’s highly regarded LiFE Awards. The first time was when Grapevine president Debbie Knight won the Community Engagement category in 2017 and the organisation itself was awarded the Communities Matter honours in 2020.

Grapevine Group’s training coordinator Edie Weiss had been awarded the highly regarded LiFE Award by national body Suicide Prevention Australia for her outstanding contribution to the Queensland community.

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Raw Metal Corp Mackay loaded its first full ship with recycled metal on Friday afternoon last week, finishing up on Monday mid-morning having worked tirelessly for 64 hours to get the job done.

Loading up the clean scrap steel for recycling, the local company filled the ship's holds with 12 thousand tonnes, and General Manager Brett Crosby said they were more than happy with the outcome.

“Very excited; it was exciting for our whole team as our first ship - and it went off without a hitch. Everyone was extremely happy to be a part of this process,” Mr Crosby said.

The recycled steel, which will head to a mill in Vietnam, was collected and processed over three months and comprised everything from old machinery to washing machines and dryers and a “good mix of other household items.”

Ten trucks operated by local workers from Mackay completed the work along with about 10 internal Raw Metal Corp staff on two shifts.

“It was good for us, but also good for those truck drivers because it’s providing a bit of a boost to the local economy,” Brett said.

“As well, we made sure they were well fed, had a barbecue and a tent set up for food, a coffee van set up in the café for the whole three days of work.”

It was the company's first ship ever, which Brett said had been an aspiration for the business since its early days.

“It’s something we always wanted to do - now we’ve done one and we’ll continue to do more,” he said.

In three months, Raw Metal will fill another ship, and Brett said if any Mackay locals are looking at wanting to be a part of the recycling process, to send their material Raw Metal’s way.

Over 64 hours, Raw Metal Corp transferred 12 thousand tonnes of steel to ships in Mackay

Day and night the Raw Metal Corp group worked tirelessly

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The Queensland coal sector’s importance to the state and national economy has been highlighted in a major new report that forecasts coal will bring in record export earnings of $110 billion in 2021-22.

The resource is set to become just the second Australian commodity to break through the $100 billion annual export mark.

The figures are part of the Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources’ March 2022 edition of the Resources and Energy Quarterly (REQ).

Minister for Resources and Water Keith Pitt said coal is making a significant contribution to a “very successful year for Australia’s resources and energy sector”.

“The latest REQ report has found that soaring demand and high prices for Australia’s coal will be a key contributor to our total resources and export earnings surging to a record high $425 billion for 2021-22,” he said.

Minister Pitt said critical global shortages in energy and some resource commodities have led to the high prices for some of Australia’s commodities.

Federal Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry said the new figures show the importance the sector held.

“The jobs and economic opportunities the coal sector provides are critically important to our region and the Coalition Government will ensure that continues well into the future,” Ms Landry said.

Senator for Queensland Matthew Canavan said nearly 92 per cent of metallurgical coal exports came from Queensland in 2021.

“[That] means billions of extra dollars in royalties and taxes to pay for the services we all rely on,” Senator Canavan said.

“We should be thanking our coal miners for the work they do.”

LNP Candidate for Dawson, Andrew Willcox said Queensland’s coal industry can continue delivering jobs in the region for decades

“There are 91 new major resources and energy projects in the pipeline in Queensland, which will deliver thousands of new jobs, especially in regional areas,” Mr Willcox said.

“The men and women working in the coal sector in the North and Central Queensland region, and throughout Queensland, have helped provide the bedrock for the state’s economy through the COVID pandemic.”

Minister Pitt said the efforts of Australia’s resources workers have helped put the country on track to deliver record high resources and energy export earnings.

“These earnings will keep the benefits flowing to all Australians, including through royalties the states use to pay for services such as the hospitals, roads and schools, we all rely on.”

The latest Resources and Energy Quarterly report is available on the Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources website.

Federal Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry with LNP Candidate for Flynn Colin Boyce (right) and Senator for Queensland Matthew Canavan

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A new water main will be installed along Shakespeare Street between Rae and Hoey streets, with the project duration anticipated to take eight weeks.

The new water main will be installed along the northern side of Shakespeare Street and will reduce the risk of failure while increasing the water supply and reliability of the local network.

Water interruptions will occur during the project, however advanced notice will be given to directly affected residents prior to any interruptions occurring.  

Mackay Regional Council said the works will be completed under traffic control, with the work zone area reduced to a single lane when crews are on site. The area will reopen as two lanes at the end of each day.

Motorists and pedestrians are asked to please follow all signage and instructions in the area while works are completed.

For more information on the project, visit council’s project hub connectingmackay.com.au.

Project map depicting the water main work zone area on Shakespeare Street

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Volunteering is a terrific way to immerse oneself in and contribute to the community and now there’s a simple way to get involved.

Laura Anzurri fills the newly created role of Neighbourhood and Care Army Connect Worker, where she connects volunteers with organisations in need.

She says there are plenty of upcoming opportunities to volunteer and is always seeking people to help.

Care Army was created two years ago as part of the Queensland Government’s Covid-19 recovery plan and has been adapted to address the decreasing volume of volunteers in regional Queensland.

The initiative proposes opportunities to an established and growing workforce of volunteers to help the organisations that have experienced this decrease.

She recently ran a successful campaign for the SecondBite initiative, recruiting eager volunteers to pick up groceries to contribute to the Neighbourhood Hub for people who struggle to afford them.

She says volunteers get matched based on skills, passions, and ability.

“It’s not just filling a role, it’s something that a volunteer should feel strongly about,” she said.

“It’s a matter of finding the right match.”

Laura is passionate about mental health and says the social interaction and sense of community that volunteering provides is the biggest benefit.

“It’s a way to make friends, it’s a way to know different realities,” she said.

“You get to know people with very big hearts.”

Laura is new to her role but has volunteered in the past and is a perfect example of how volunteering can lead to further opportunities.

“Volunteering did the trick for me,” she said.

“It often opens paths for paid employment in different fields.

“If it worked for me, it can work for other people.”

Care Army is looking for people of all backgrounds to get involved. Scan the QR code below to find out more.

Laura Anzurri recently ran a successful volunteer campaign for Taiya Thaiday, Administration and SecondBite Coordinator at The Neighbourhood Hub. Photo: supplied

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Magpies Crusaders United Football Club has suffered another blow, after the club’s new head coach Brian Murphy resigned, telling media he suspected a player’s family who resides in the UK of gambling on games.

Football Australia prohibits participants from betting on matches, with strict penalties including a lifetime ban a possibility if caught.

Mr Murphy handed in his letter of resignation earlier this week, saying “there was definitely gambling going on” and that he didn’t want his name associated with that.

Magpies Crusaders United Chairman Barry Jansen was visibly devasted by the allegation, saying he was completely unaware of any assertion of match-fixing until his meeting with Mr Murphy tendering his resignation.

“Magpies Crusaders is taking this matter very seriously and is committed to cooperating fully with Football Queensland and Football Australia’s investigation,” Mr Jansen said in a statement.

“As always, Magpies Crusaders wish to maintain the highest level of integrity and transparency but will be unable to provide any further comment as the investigation continues."

Mr Murphy alleged for the club to move forward and get a license to play next year they would need to do a thorough investigation.

Football Queensland has referred the incident to the Football Australia Integrity Department.

At the time of writing, Magpies Crusaders United will continue their QPL1 campaign this Saturday 9th April against Mitchelton FC at its home ground, Sologinkin Oval. Kickoff is set for 7pm.

Magpies Crusaders United Football Club Head Coach Brian Murphy (left) tendered his resignation this week, accusing a player’s family of gambling on matches. Image: Magpies Crusaders Facebook

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The Mackay Showgrounds vaccination hub recently facilitated its first drive-through COVID-19 vaccination, to give vulnerable members of the public with mobility issues a solution to get their vaccination or booster.

If you or someone you know has compromised mobility and would like to receive a first, second, booster or paediatric dose, you can call Mackay Hospital and Health Service’s COVID-19 hotline on 4885 5666 to book an appointment.

The Mackay Showgrounds vaccination hub is open 9.30am to 5pm weekdays, 7.30am to 3pm Saturday and 8.30am to 4pm Sunday.

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Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) are bringing a first of its kind, tailored curriculum to the region and rolling it out in classrooms to help students identify and prepare themselves for regional career opportunities.

The ‘For Greater Careers Education Program’ is a series of career modules aimed at helping high school teachers from year seven to ten support their students through the provision of regionally specific resources.

Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) Chief Executive Officer Kylie Porter said GW3 worked with education consultants ‘Future Anything’ to engage teachers, industry representatives and young people to develop the program.

“[It is a] series of hands-on, career modules that are co-designed by the region, for use in classrooms across the Greater Whitsunday,” Ms Porter said.

“The first module developed is targeting year ten students, while development of modules for years seven, eight and nine is now underway.”

The program aims at building job readiness for high school students across the region and providing them with accurate information around the types of careers available in a large range of sectors including agriculture, aquaculture, mining, and even aerospace.

Future Anything Founder Ms Nicole Dyson said over 50 per cent of current jobs are being replaced or irrevocably changed due to globalisation and automation – making the program extremely timely.

“It’s never been more important to provide young people with a clear understanding of the ‘future of work’ and how to navigate a ‘future proofed’ pathway to industry,” Ms Dyson said.

“Current research indicates an average 12- year -old today will have seventeen different jobs over five different careers.”

The program is research backed by regional data and is broken down into four phases of learning.

The modules will enable students to understand the ‘future of work’ before they imagine real world pathway opportunities in region.

Students will map their future through to training and education opportunities, before making their career decision with a focus on action through work experience.

Ms Dyson believes the For Greater Careers Education Program will bring transformational change to the ‘careers education’ space in the Greater Whitsunday region.

“Quite simply, young people can’t be what they can’t see,” she said.

“This will, no doubt, see more young people getting employed faster - especially in their chosen fields, greater engagement of young people in industry in region - particularly in emerging fields, and a closing the skill gap between education and industry.”

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Mackay Regional Council staff began scheduled maintenance of trimming trees in the Mackay City Centre earlier this week, to keep the city’s tropical palms tidy.

Palm cleaning will be carried out over two weeks between 5am and 9am on weekdays and weekends on Victoria, Wood, Macalister and Nelson streets, as well as Mangrove Road and Matsuura Drive.

Palm cleaning on Sydney Street will be completed on Sunday, April 10, and will take most of the morning to complete.

Full traffic control will be in place and some road/lane closures will be required during the work.

Residents are asked to obey all instructions from council staff and traffic control officers.

The work is part of council’s annual maintenance program.

For further information call 1300 MACKAY (622 529).

An alarming spike in motor vehicle accidents has the region’s rescuers pleading for caution on the roads this Easter and during the school holidays.

From January to the end of March, RACQ CQ Rescue completed 146 missions, 11 of which were airlifting people injured in serious motor vehicle accidents in the region. This compared to only eight accidents in the first three months of last year and four in 2020, representing a very concerning upwards trend on the region’s road.

Motor vehicle accidents involving, car, trucks and motorbikes occurred across the length and breadth of the helicopter’s service region including Ayr, Moranbah, Collinsville, Nebo, Gargett and in the Whitsundays, with serious injuries requiring airlift to hospital predominantly including fractures, cranial and internal injuries.

RACQ CQ Rescue pilot Owen Maitland said the message was very clear to all motorists this Easter – leave your phone alone when you are behind the wheel.

“The fatal five, particularly distracted driving, speeding and fatigue, are still playing a large part in serious road accidents and subsequent severe injury in this region,” he said.

“Distracted drivers are far too common. Sadly, we see it every day. You only have to pull up at a set of traffic lights and see drivers talking on their phones or sending a text message. This is a very serious threat not only to themselves and their passengers but to other road users as well. Mobile phones cause major distractions for drivers, on both long distance trips or even just around town, and largely increase the risk of accident, subsequent serious injury and even death,” Mr Maitland said.

“Please, for the sake of your loved ones and other road users, set up the Do Not Disturb While Driving function on your phone so you can stay focused behind the wheel. When this is on, text messages, calls and notifications will be limited so you can focus on the important job of getting to your destination safely.

“No message, notification or phone call is worth the risk to life and limb on the road. While we love our job and serving this community, we don’t want to meet you or your loved ones by accident this Easter,” he said.  

Locally, a horror period of deaths on the roads recently included a doctor in her 20s who died in a head-on collision between a truck and Suzuki Swift on the Bruce Highway last month, a young man killed when his vehicle hit a tree near Kuttabul, west of Mackay, and a 44-year-old Clermont woman killed in a head-on collision on the Peak Downs Highway near Strathfield, both in February.

RACQ CQ Rescue is urging motorists to take care behind the wheel. Image supplied: RACQ CQ Rescue

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