For the past 54 years, the Proserpine Lions Club has been quietly working away with a sea of dedicated volunteers who offer their time to raise money for necessary items in support of local causes.

Simply looking to serve the community and not for recognition, the group of 27 local Lions are often the friendly faces that man the sausage sizzles at various events.

From the Paul Bowman Cup to the Proserpine Show – they will be there!

Every dollar donated with the purchase of a delicious snag or cold drink is put straight back into the community and given to a local organisation that needs assistance. Lions members pay their own administration expenses.

A total of $30,000 was donated to the Proserpine Hospital by the Proserpine Lions and this money was used to fund seven machines that monitor heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature for patients.

In addition, the club donated funds to pay for vital machines at the Proserpine Nursing Home and are regularly approached by a range of local organisations who need help with equipment or resources.

With some of the local Lions reaching an age where they wish to wind down their active years of contribution, the club is currently looking for new members to reactivate the group.

Doug Winterflood who has been with the Lions for 20 years and used to be the District Governor for North Queensland, overseeing 69 different clubs, said that they would also be interested in helping a new sub-branch start-up.

“We’re aiming to get younger members involved,” he said.

“They can form a branch club and have their own club if they like – we can simply guide and mentor them as much as they want, then leave them to their own resources.”

For anyone looking to join the Proserpine Lions, simply call Tim on 0407 961 379 and come along to one of their twice monthly meetings at the Grand Central Hotel in Proserpine.

The Australian Lions Club has been operating for 75 years and now has 1,200 clubs with 25,000 registered members.

Lions are involved universally with a wide range of projects, Youth Opportunities, Sight, Emergency response, Medical Research, Health, Humanitarian issues and the Environment – so if you want more than just a good sausage - join the Lions!

Members of the Proserpine Lions Club

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The Whitsundays community was deeply saddened by news of the sudden passing of Stephen Jennings in early February.

The much-loved 64-year-old paramedic retired last year after 42 years’ service and had been looking forward to travelling around Asia with his wife.

A farm boy born from south Gippsland, Mr Jennings went on to spend four decades saving lives across Australia.

He took up the role of ambulance officer first in his home state of Victoria before settling in Airlie Beach and finally retiring in December of last year.

The well-loved paramedic retired to the applause of colleagues, as well as Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS), who awarded him a certificate of appreciation for 25 years of service with the QAS, on top of his already astounding 17 years with the Victoria Ambulance Service (VAS).

Seven of those years were working on helicopter rescue in Victoria as a paramedic before transferring to Proserpine and then the Whitsunday Station, where he stayed for the rest of his career.

Officer in Charge of Whitsunday Ambulance Station Steve Thurtell worked with Mr Jennings for 25 years until his retirement.

“It was a shock, and a terribly sad loss, that someone who devotes 40 years of his career doesn’t get to enjoy the fruits of his labour in retirement,” Mr Thurtell said.

“We formed a good partnership over the years and he was a very solid paramedic over that time.”

Mr Thurtell said that the favourite opening line for Mr Jennings was “Hi, I’m Steve and we’re going to get you sorted.”

Mackay and Whitsunday Life spoke with Mr Jennings on the day of his retirement, and he was extremely proud of his profession.

“From death to walking out of the hospital later on, that’s a good feeling – actually getting someone back, and we’re quite capable of doing that,” Mr Jennings said.

“Saving someone’s life is pure elation; there is no feeling that comes close.”

Mr Jennings passed away surrounded by friends and family on February 8.

Stephen Jennings surrounded by colleagues

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The gloves are off and the campaign fight is heating up as both LNP candidate Andrew Willcox and Labor candidate Shane Hamilton begin the battle for the seat of Dawson which will be decided in the Federal election due to take place at the beginning of May.

Mr Willcox voiced his concerns about what would happen if the Labor Party was voted in and made an alliance with the Greens, speculating that this would cost billions of dollars and tens of thousands of jobs in the local resource industry.

“The potential consequences of a Labor Greens Alliance could cost Queensland $85 billion in investment and 52,000 jobs as soon as the deal is signed,” Mr Willcox said.

“As the Minister for Resources Keith Pitt has said - this is the true cost of a Labor Greens alliance - which would be based on the Greens demand to immediately stop more than 100 major resources projects, including coal and gas developments in our region.”

Mr Hamilton, refuted this idea, saying that there would be no such alliance and that under the previous Labor Government many resource projects and employment were in fact created.

“Labor will only govern on its own standing, and I strongly believe that's what we'll achieve at the next election,” he said.

“The Labor state government has approved several new mining projects in recent years and with two levels of government aligned and focused on delivering good secure jobs, the people of Dawson will be the beneficiaries.”

“I currently work in mining projects, so you won’t get a person with more frontline experience or a better advocate than me.”

Mr Willcox is also well-informed about the needs of the mining industry having been Mayor of the Whitsunday Regional Council for the past six years.

Only time will tell which candidate is best for the seat of Dawson.

Labor Candidate for Dawson, Shane Hamilton

LNP Candidate for Dawson, Andrew Willcox

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Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk announced the major easing of COVID restrictions last week, including the state-wide mask mandate which will no longer be required in most indoor settings.

Many workplaces, schools, shops, cafes, restaurants, and pubs were thrilled with the news last week that mask mandates were being removed and people could enter their establishments mask-free from 6pm on Friday March 4.

Masks will still be required on public transport and rideshares, as well as airports, prisons, and disability and aged care settings.

Ms Palaszczuk said she was making the announcement with “cautious optimism” with the Queensland government believing that the number of hospitalisations and infections has now peaked.

"These numbers are coming down as we come off the wave, " Ms Palaszczuk told parliament.

Both Ms Palaszczuk and Health Minister Yvette D'Ath said that the vulnerable members of the community should continue wearing masks, and everyone should carry a mask in places where they cannot socially distance.

The Premier also announced that density limits would be scrapped for weddings, funerals, homes, food courts, hairdressers, gyms, and universities.

The Premier’s daily COVID press conferences will also end from the first week of March.

"This is all about getting our lives back to a new normal,” she said.

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With just a few months until new low-cost airline, Bonza, starts bringing an additional seven weekly flights to the Whitsundays, the aviation company’s Chief Commercial Operator Carly Povey met with over 100 tourism operators at a celebratory networking evening hosted by Tourism Whitsundays and Shute Harbour Marine Terminal on Tuesday.

The Sunshine Coast based airline will be launching eight aircraft by the middle of the year and servicing 25 new routes to 16 destinations across the country.

Determined to link previously unserviced regional areas, Ms Povey said they are looking forward to connecting Australia like never before.

“Of the 15 largest global airline markets, Australia was the only one with only one low-cost airline,” she said.

“This showed there was a lack of choice and a pent-up demand - Australia is not well connected and we see huge opportunity in linking region to region or major city to region.”

Ms Povey went on to add that in 2010 there were 58 low-cost routes in Australia and although some of the destinations have changed in the past decade, there are still only 58 routes – this shows zero per cent growth, compared to 258 per cent growth in the United States.

Bonza is a Sunshine Coast based company and has Miami-based investors called 777 Partners who hold a diverse portfolio of 55 other companies, one of which includes a low-cost airline in Canada.

With this backing, Bonza has the flexibility to grow easily within the market.

“They want to democratise air travel for all Australians,” said Ms Povey.

While focusing on a low-cost business model with the average one-hour flight just $50, Bonza will also be introducing brand-new 186-seater planes that are fitted with leather seats.

“We offer low fares but great value and genuine care,” said Ms Povey

“We are an app only airline, totally paperless which is a win for sustainability and operate the newest, most fuel-efficient aircraft.”

Bonza will soon provide weekly connections to Sunshine Coast, Toowoomba and Newcastle with increased destinations expected to be announced over the next few years.

Mayor Andrew Willcox with Bonza Chief Commercial Operator Carly Povey at Tourism Whitsundays networking night on Tuesday

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Fresh off the back of last week’s announcement that affordable airline, Bonza, will be connecting the Whitsundays to new markets, there are plans for an expansion at our local airport so that our regional runway can keep up with demand and growth.

The $10 million project will increase aircraft parking bays from four to seven which will allow for additional taxi ways plus two standover bays for overnight stays.

Whitsunday Regional Council (WRC) are currently seeking funding for a feasibility study and detailed design costs so that they can move forward with the project and advocate for further funding from the government.

A total of $250,000 has been requested through the 22-24 Local Government Grants and Subsidies Program, with WRC contributing an additional $100,000.

Notification of the grant application outcome is expected late April 2022.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Andrew Willcox said that planning for future increased flight capacity was key for Australia’s fastest growing regional airport.

“As Australia and the world starts to reopen, we are positioning the Whitsundays as the best place in the world to visit and increasing flights and adding new routes,” he said.

“This means we need to plan well ahead to ensure our infrastructure can keep pace with our growth.

“Having a shovel ready project will increase our chances of securing funding from Federal and State governments to partner and deliver the project which will cost in excess of $10 million.

Prior to the Covid-19 pandemic the Whitsunday Coast Airport goal was to reach 500,000 passengers annually - this has now been revised to a target of 750,000 annual passengers if the world opens up as expected in 2022.

New taxi ways set to expand capacity at Whitsunday Coast Airport

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Bowen’s Pink Stumps Ladies Day hosted over 300 women at the Bowen Sporting Complex to raise funds for the McGrath Foundation, part of the Breast Cancer Awareness campaign to bring attention to the devastating disease.

Each year the Cricket Ground swaps stumps for frocks as part of the McGrath Foundation charity day, welcoming women to support breast cancer nurses nationwide, as well as here in the Whitsundays.

The McGrath Foundation funds McGrath Breast Care Nurses, who provide invaluable support and care to women and men experiencing breast cancer at no cost.

This week’s fundraiser took the shape of a seated lunch, with platters and drink stalls running alongside the marquee. Throughout the day the organisers ran auctions with the profits heading straight back to the McGrath foundation.

The items on auction ranged from a Cowboy’s jersey, two signed bats from the Australia-Sri Lankan team 2007, one from the Big Bash League, and another from the Glenn McGrath Foundation itself.

There was live cricket played on the field, although the ladies’ interest was chiefly on the food, drinks, and good company. Expert speakers took to the stage to highlight proper health checks and information on Breast Cancer.

Breast Care Mackay attended, as well as Sue Murray from the Coastal Radiology who gave talks on breast cancer. Sergeant Michelle O’Regan of the Bowen Police department emceed the entire event, “keeping it lively,” and Councillor Michelle Wright attended on the day as well.

Last year, the group raised $10,000 for the foundation with a crowd of 200. President of Bowen Cricket Incorporated, Seth Mcintosh, said that they were hoping to bring in even more this year.

The event has raised almost $40 thousand dollars over its time of operation in Bowen.

One of the pink-tastically decorated tables at Bowen’s Pink Stumps Day

Two internal cricket matches were played to raise funds alongside the sit-down lunch

Ladies enjoyed themselves at the sit-down lunch for Pink Stumps Ladies Day

Fast talking auctioneer Peter Lawton was a source of constant humour

Two of Mackay’s McGrath Foundation Nurses

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Our region is about to become famous with reality TV fans from around the world when the new series of Below Deck is broadcast to millions of fans on the 18th March.

The entire series of the break-off show Below Deck: Down Under, was filmed right here in the Whitsundays in September 2021, with the super yacht, Thalassa, known to have docked at Coral Sea Marina for a number of weeks.

The party-loving crew were spotted having lively drinks at Magnums during filming and many whispers abounded from local operators whose services were sequestered by producers before they were sworn to silence.

The new series is expected to feature ‘Down Under’, not just in the sense of Australia being down under, but also in taking the audience on an underwater adventure with the guests enjoying diving, scuba diving, snorkelling and spearfishing with the cast.

While nothing has been formerly confirmed, many suspect that the crew will include some well-known faces.

Tumi Mhlongo, Benny Crawley and Magda Ziomek were thought to be onboard, however, an anonymous local source said Aesha Jean is the only returning crew member.

Speculators are also suggesting that Jimmy Threthewie from The Bachelorette and Bachelor in Paradise will be a guest in one of the episodes.

Reports state that fan-favourite, Captain Lee, will unfortunately not be the skipper.

The vessel itself, however, comes from famous origins having been used in the 2008 film, Fool’s Gold, starring Matthew McConaughey and Kate Hudson when it was named Keri Lee lll.

It houses a beauty salon, a massage room and a hot tub with a movie screen.  

Many gossip sites who are following the story have heard rumours that the guests were offered highly discounted trips in order to get the spin-off series started.

A group of eight people shared the cost of $20,000 to participate.

In the American version the average Below Deck yacht costs $236,000 to hire per week.

Make sure you tune in on Friday 18th March on Bravo.

Season 6 Below Deck – the Tahiti crew

Super yacht, Thalassa, starred in the move Fool’s Good in 2008

The Below Deck Down Under crew spotted at Magnums in September. Photo Declan Durrant

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67-Year-Old Local Represents Australia at World Championships

Fitter than most people could hope to be at the prime of their life, retired local Michael Kimpton, has qualified for the Ironman World Championships which are due to take place in the United States later this year.

Over 100,000 athletes from around the world vie for just 2000 places in the World Championships and Michael won his place to represent Team Australia by finishing 3rd place for the 65-69 age-group in an Ironman competition in Cairns last June.

Old Dog, New Tricks

Ice baths, ocean swims and a strict diet are just some of the daily practices that Michael Kimpton builds into his intensive routine which will see him fighting fit and ready to compete in the Ironman World Championships this year.

It was just six years ago that Mr Kimpton picked up running again after a 30-year hiatus, when he and wife of 41 years, Val, moved to Airlie Beach.

The couple were determined to keep active during their retirement and while Mrs Kimpton plays tennis, Mr Kimpton decided to enter a few local triathlons and quickly became an active member of the Whitsunday Triathlon Club.

To qualify for his age-group in the world championships is an incredible achievement for a man who, at the age of 22, survived a near-fatal motorbike accident when commuting home from work one rainy evening in Melbourne.

With a compound break in his femur, a large portion of his calf muscle missing and kidney failure, Mr Kimpton spent six months in hospital and had complete nerve damage to his left leg leaving him temporarily paralysed and unable to walk.

“After numerous operations and intensive rehabilitation, I was determined to regain my fitness to its fullest,” said Mr Kimpton.

Flash forward almost 46 years and not only has he led a fulfilling life with three children and two grandchildren, he is also living his best years now.

First representing Australia in France in 2019, Mr Kimpton is now looking forward to jetting off to Roth in Germany, where he will compete on the 3rd July, a day before his 68th birthday.

Also participating in this event will be another Airlie Beach local, Cassandra Carman.

Alongside his biggest supporter and wife, Mr Kimpton will then head to the World lronman Championships at Kailua Pier, Kona, Hawaii and race on October 6.

The mammoth event consists of a 3.8-kilometre swim, a 180-kilometre cycle, followed by a 42.2-kilometre marathon run.

The couple then head to St George in Utah where Mr Kimpton has also qualified to represent Australia in the World Half lronman Championships on October 29.

Using this impressive sporting achievement to raise funds and awareness for Prostate Cancer of Foundation Australia Mr Kimpton is hosting a fundraising page to support a cause which is close to his heart.

So far, he has raised $5000 and if you would like to donate, simply go to fundraise.pcfa.org.au.

Ironman World Championships qualifier, Michael Kimpton

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Caneland Central is going to market as current owners Lendlease seek investors to acquire 100% interest in the Mackay region’s largest shopping centre.

Owned and managed by Lendlease’s APPF Retail fund since 2001, the centre underwent a major refurbishment in 2011 and has DA approved plans for a further expansion and development for a new cinema and food and beverage precinct.

Lendlease Investment Management’s Managing Director, Scott Mosley said, “Caneland Central is the premier shopping and lifestyle destination in the Mackay region and is positioned at the heart of its local community.

“The centre has been a strong performer for APPF Retail and is uniquely situated to continue servicing the local community and tourists with its mix of retail, lifestyle and dining.”

Caneland Central covers 65,964m2 and houses major retailers such as Myer, Coles, Woolworths, Target, and Big W as well as a large range of mini-majors and speciality tenants.

The centre services more than 175,000 people across the Mackay region and is the only regional shopping centre housing Myer within a 320 km radius.

JLL Retail Investments Senior Directors, Nick Willis and Sam Hatcher, have been exclusively appointed on behalf of Lendlease to bring APPF Retail’s 100% interest in Caneland Central to market.

Willis said, “The offering to acquire a 100% interest in an institutionally owned and managed asset like this is unique, with only eight regional assets being offered over the past 10 years and only two in Queensland, highlighting the rarity of the opportunity.”

Caneland Central will go to market via an Expressions of Interest campaign.

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A growing number of people in Mackay are seeking swift access to specialist emergency medicine, with a 43 per cent increase in patients presenting to Mater Private Hospital Mackay’s Emergency Care Centre over the past year.

The Emergency Care Centre (ECC) - which celebrates its third anniversary this month - had 13 452 patient presentations in 2021 compared with 9 385 the year before.

Mater Private Hospital Mackay Executive Officer, Beth Thomas, said the increase reflected a rising trend amongst patients for easy access to specialist medical advice as well as services like imaging and pathology.

“All of our ECC doctors are experienced emergency medicine specialists, so patients are confident they will receive a high standard of care and expertise,” Ms Thomas said.

Mater’s ECC Director, Dr Khalid Yousif, said increasing numbers of patients were also choosing the Mater because it provided low wait times.

“The ECC was established three years ago to provide the people of Mackay and surrounding region with more choices in emergency health care,” he said.

“The 43 per cent rise in patients in the past year makes it clear that our patients are prioritising access to emergency medicine expertise, as well as the radiology and pathology services provided.

“Typically, we see patients present and be assessed first and foremost by an emergency medicine specialist, who will order the necessary radiology and pathology services, and/or additional specialist consultations.

“Patients can then either be swiftly discharged, referred onto the appropriate medical specialists for further treatment, or admitted if necessary.

“This process reduces our waiting times and delays and appears to be building the trust and confidence of the community through their increasing demand for our emergency services.”

Ms Thomas said the ECC was a partnership between Mater Private Hospital Mackay and Private Emergency Health Australia (PEHA) and was accessible to both public and private patients.

The Mater Mackay Emergency Care Centre is located within Mater Private Hospital Mackay at 76 Willets Road, North Mackay and operates from 8 am – 10 pm daily.

Mater Private Hospital Mackay’s Emergency Care Centre has seen a steep rise in demand from 2020 to 2021. Images supplied: Mater Private Hospital

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The Regional Queensland Council of Mayors (RQCOM) is seeking commitments for disaster recovery and mitigation support from the Commonwealth.

The call for a commitment comes after the Shadow Prime Minister Anthony Albanese alongside Senator Murray Watt and Labor Candidate for Dawson Shane Hamilton pledged $5M from a Labor federal government to improve Mackay’s disaster readiness by investing in a flood levee along the Pioneer River.

“Our announcement is about building a better Queensland, making a more resilient Queensland for the future,” Mr Albanese announced in Mackay last month.

The RQCOM is seeking a similar commitment from the LNP federal government and says there is a fund sitting there for this purpose which has not been utilised when communities have needed it most.

Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson, who is RQCOM Chair, said he looked forward to working with the Federal Government before the next disaster season to rebuild and mitigate against future damage.

“The National Recovery and Resilience Agency has a $4 billion disaster recovery and mitigation fund that is earning hundreds of millions of dollars in interest every year,” said Mayor Williamson.

“This fund has earnt $836 million in interest, which is supposed to be spent to fund emergency response and natural disaster recovery and preparedness,” he said.

“We want to see that money spent for the very purpose it is intended for.

“This is especially timely now, coming off the back of a disaster season that has seen damage across many of our member councils’ areas.

“We’re determined to see this money released and actually used for what it has been set aside to do, so we can get commitments for expenditure from this fund that will help people across regional Queensland rebuild their lives and prepare for next time.”

Mayor Williamson said that it had been like pulling teeth trying to get money out of the fund, which was earning a heap for the future when the need was right now.

“Despite being up and running for years, I’m not aware of one project that has been funded,” he said.

The Emergency Relief Fund was established in 2019 to fund emergency response and natural disaster recovery and preparedness in response to natural disasters.

Labor has already pledged that Mackay would be the first in line to receive funding from its new Disaster Ready Fund, which will invest up to $200 million per year on disaster prevention and resilience.

“Thousands of Australians who face bushfires, floods and cyclones every year deserve to be protected by a federal government who plans ahead and invests to keep them safe,” Mr Albanese said.

“We know weather events are on the horizon – we have the smarts and the resources to prepare and prevent disasters happening from these events.”

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Domestic violence (DV) can often go under the radar, which is why Community Bank Sarina is participating in the ‘Red Bench Project’ – to help generate awareness within the Sarina community.

A symbol of hope, like a red bench, is a reminder that there are pathways of assistance for sufferers of the violent scourge.

Broad Street in Sarina, which forms part of the Bruce Highway, is now home to a red bench donated by Community Bank Sarina – a visible reminder that domestic violence is in our community, but that we are the ones who can change that.

Community Bank Sarina Chair Karen May said that Red Rose Foundation, the founders of the Project, and the Bank are “especially concerned at the high number of domestic violence related deaths that occur each year”.

“Domestic violence deaths are largely preventable – and we want to do all we can to be a part of that prevention,” Ms May said.

“We believe that Sarina is a close-knit community – so if there is someone in our community who is suffering from domestic violence, we want this bench to be a symbol to them that help is available.

“The more people who are aware of the signs of domestic violence, and the support available – the more we can help prevent the physical, emotional and mental damage that can come from a domestic violence situation.”

The Foundation’s motto, which is included on the bench’s plaque, states ‘Let’s change the ending’.

“To our team in the branch and to those on our board, this means that there is hope – that we can help to make a difference, and change the ending for those who are currently suffering.”

While the bench alone won’t break the cycle, it speaks volumes; to celebrate the survivors, to act as a permanent reminder that DV won’t be tolerated and to encourage victims and those who see DV to speak up and seek help.

If you or someone you know is interested in domestic violence counselling or advocacy, please contact the Red Rose Foundation on info@redrosefoundation.com.au.

To report a suspected case of domestic violence, please contact 000 in an emergency, or phone police for non-life-threatening help on 131 444, 24 hours, 7 days a week.

(L-R): Karen May (Chair, Community Bank Sarina); Charmaine Matsen (Branch Manager, Community Bank Sarina); Mel

Nielsen (Customer Service Officer Community Bank Sarina); Cr Belinda Hassan; Cr Fran Mann

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The creation of a new corridor between Paget and the Peak Downs Highway is touted to improve freight, tourism and road transport between Mackay and Moranbah. More importantly, the creation of the Walkerston Bypass will offer a safer and more efficient link by reducing congestion issues posed by the existing Peak Downs Highway.

The project is one step closer to commencing, with the construction contract for the $186.6 million piece of infrastructure being awarded to Fulton Hogan Construction Pty Ltd. It is expected to be completed during 2024.

The Walkerston Bypass will receive up to $149.28 million in funding from the Australian Government and up to $37.32 million from the Queensland Government.

Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert said the 10.6km link will follow Stockroute Road from the Bruce Highway before it deviates south at the western end and joins the Peak Downs Highway, ensuring heavy vehicles are diverted away from the Walkerston town centre.

“This is a huge win for the Walkerston community making it much safer and more accessible for residents and motorists,” Mrs Gilbert said.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Barnaby Joyce said this milestone pushes the project closer to reality.

“This project will deliver a new two-lane highway connection between the Peak Downs Highway, west of Walkerston and the Mackay Ring Road, near Paget,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

“Once complete, Queenslanders will enjoy more efficient, safer journeys. Additionally, it will boost the region’s economy, supporting an estimated 235 jobs during construction.

“This is another example of how the Australian Government is getting the job done and delivering the infrastructure Queenslanders need through our record $110 billion infrastructure plan.”

Queensland Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the 10.6 kilometre link between the Bruce and Peak Downs highways would divert heavy vehicles away from Walkerston.

“The bypass will improve safety for local residents, by removing heavy vehicle traffic out of the town's centre and away from local schools and businesses,” Minister Bailey said.

“Construction of the Walkerston Bypass is an important step towards improving efficiency from Mackay to the mining communities in the Bowen Basin.”

Federal Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry said the project complements other road projects currently underway in the region.

“Since 2013 the Australian Government has committed to delivering more than $14 billion in regional road improvements across Queensland, supporting more than 30,000 jobs and boosting the economy,” Ms Landry said.

“We have already delivered the $497.3 million Mackay Ring Road, with a $397.9 million federal commitment.

“The Australian Government will continue to invest in and deliver the road infrastructure projects that matter to locals, tourists, businesses and freight operators.”

The Walkerston Bypass is scheduled for completion in late 2024.\

Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert announcing the Walkerston Bypass tender has been awarded to Fulton Hogan Construction. Image supplied: Julieanne Gilbert

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Over the last few weeks, I have been having a few days off from my 4MK radio show, so that meant no 4am alarm to get up and go, but it did allow me to do a few other things that I don't normally do.

I got to see the sunrise from my bed. That I just don’t get to see during the week, and I love it.

I live in South Mackay near the beach, so I love getting up and going for a walk on the beach with a dog on the lead. Right now, I don’t have a dog so if anyone wants a dog walker give me a call when I get back to work.

The other thing I love to do on holidays is have a cheat breakfast day, every day of the week. That means bacon and eggs when you wake up. How great is that? Like I say, a cheat day to many people could be sweets, biscuits or even alcohol. To me the good old bacon and eggs are the bomb and I’m very lucky to be able to do it during the week.

Holidays also allow me to get out and explore a bit more. Last week I was up at Finch Hatton Gorge going for a swim. I’ve been having a beer at the Eimeo Pub, and I’ve also taken the drone up near Walkerston to check out our beautiful cane fields. It’s just the best view from 100 metres in the air.

That’s all stopped now because I’m back on the radio and loving it.

If you’re still on holidays now that the kids have gone back to school, that’s great. If you’ve got kids with you at home for any reason, I’m thinking of you. I hope you’re having some of your own time as well.

A reminder if you’re looking for things to do and see around our Mackay region, please go and check out the volunteers at the region's visitor information centres. They have all the details and ideas to look outside the box.

One suggestion from me, go up the Diggings at Eungella. You’ll love it. Guaranteed.

You can join Rob Kidd from 5am weekday mornings on 4MK 1026 AM in Mackay and Proserpine, 91.5FM in Airlie Beach or just ask your smart speaker to play 4MK!

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