Whitsunday Wealth Enchanted Garden Event Blossoms With Purpose

The Whitsunday Wealth Enchanted Garden Event, hosted by Life Publishing Group at Elementa, was a breathtaking celebration of elegance, community, and generosity. More than 250 guests stepped into a magical garden setting, complete with stunning floral installations, twinkling lights, and the soft glow of a Whitsunday sunset.

The evening featured exquisite canapés, flowing champagne, and captivating entertainment by Mo Swagger, culminating in a vibrant dancefloor finale. With live and silent auctions, Enchanted Key prizes, and heartfelt support from sponsors, the inaugural event raised over $50,000 for seven regional charities — making a remarkable difference across the community.

Whitsunday Wealth Enchanted Garden Event Raises Over $50K for Regional Charities

Life Publishing Group hosted its inaugural charity fundraiser — the Whitsunday Wealth Enchanted Garden Event — on Saturday evening at Elementa, marking a spectacular debut on the region’s social calendar.

More than 250 guests attended the elegant affair, which embraced an Enchanted Garden theme complete with eye-catching, larger-than-life floral installations and whimsical butterflies throughout.

As the magical Whitsunday sunset faded, the venue transformed into a twinkling wonderland, with delicately lit floral displays creating the feeling of being immersed in an enthralling natural paradise.

Guests were treated to a five-hour inclusive drinks package, flowing bubbles, and a selection of delicious roaming canapés served throughout the evening.

Beyond the glamour, the night carried heartfelt purpose, supporting seven regional charities. Guests had the chance to purchase an Enchanted Key, bid on 30 silent auction items, and participate in a lively Live Auction expertly hosted by Brad Sobott of Taylors Property Specialists.

Entertainment was on point, with Sunshine Coast sensation Mo Swagger captivating the crowd and ending the night with a packed dancefloor.

With final tallies still being confirmed, the event has already raised over $50,000, with proceeds set to make a meaningful impact across regional causes. Benefiting charities include the Townsville Spinal Ward, Orange Sky, The Trudy Crowley Foundation, Mackay Hospital Foundation, Bowen & Collinsville Pet Rescue, Mackay Pet Rescue Inc, and Fauna Rescue Whitsundays.

Life Publishing Group extends heartfelt thanks to all sponsors for their generosity and support — most notably Naming Rights Sponsor Whitsunday Wealth, Gold Sponsor Barefoot Medicine, and Silver Sponsor Epoca Property.

Additional appreciation goes to Bronze Sponsors: Eclipse Financial Planning, Plants Whitsunday, Connole Carlisle Chartered Accountants, Amanda Camm, Jacquie Camilleri, Starcut Flowers Wedding Events, Fierce Signage, Fergus Builders, Poppy’s Pizza Place, Lucinda Hotel, White Picket Real Estate, and Whisper Gin Bar and Restaurant.

Mini Sponsors included Absolute Waste, Raw Metal Corp, Rebel Nation, Dingo Beach Hotel, Move It Chiropractic, GB Industries, and Bravus.

In-kind Sponsors: Taste Whitsundays, Reef Security Services, Taylors Property Specialists, Soundzgood, Triple M, and Whitsunday Transit.

Special thanks also to Jay & Dave from Triple M for emceeing the evening, Element Events by Ramona for the incredible styling and Elementa for hosting the evening.

The event was a shining success — a perfect blend of elegance, community spirit, and generosity, all in support of causes that make a difference across the region.

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Hi Everyone,

I’ve attended many wonderful events this year, but Saturday night was the first time we’ve had the privilege of hosting our own here in the Whitsundays.

The Whitsunday Wealth Enchanted Garden Event was an ambitious project spearheaded by our Mackay Sales Manager Jessica Clark, who brought together clients, business associates, and community members to raise funds for seven regional charities.

Before long, our entire team was involved in bringing the event to life, and a big thank you also goes to our Whitsunday Sales Manager Trish Jandt for working closely alongside Jess on sponsorships, auction items, and the many behind-the-scenes details that ensured the night’s success.

In the weeks leading up to the event, it was a true flurry of collaboration and creativity. Our talented graphic designers produced stunning event booklets, auction forms, presentation videos, and more — and a special thank you to Danny from Graphic House for generously contributing toward some of the printing costs.

Our Office Coordinator Trisha Coetzee managed the complex transport logistics, including bus timetables, and the whole team rallied on Friday afternoon to finalise every last detail.

On the night, each team member stepped up as hosts and fundraisers, and it truly warmed my heart to see everyone working together so seamlessly to make our very first event such a success. Every staff member generously gave up their Saturday night to volunteer, and their collective effort played a vital role in helping raise funds for the seven regional charities.

Making the evening even more special, Life Publishing Group owner Bec Douthwaite flew in from the UK to attend, sharing in what was a magical moment for our entire team.

A heartfelt thank you also to Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox, Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins, Burdekin Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort, and Whitsunday Councillor Gary Simpson for joining us on the night.

It’s incredible to think that more than $50,000 was raised, which will be shared equally between our seven selected regional charities. I look forward to announcing the final total in next week’s paper.

We’re already planning next year’s event, so if you’d like to be involved as a sponsor or nominate as a beneficiary, please reach out to our office — we’d love to hear from you.

Thank you again to everyone who helped make this inaugural event such a beautiful success. It was truly a night where community, generosity, and celebration bloomed together.

Rach

Quote of the Week: "It takes real planning to organise this kind of chaos" (Mel Odom)

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The Whitsundays is built on community - people who care deeply about where we live and the future we’re shaping together.

When something touches our lifestyle, our environment, or our region’s identity, our community speaks up - thoughtfully, respectfully, and with heart.

Over recent weeks, many locals have reached out to share their thoughts on the proposed Mt Challenger Wind Farm near Proserpine. From farmers and families to small-business owners, your voices have been strong and consistent - our community wants transparency, honesty, and genuine consultation.

This isn’t just about one project - it’s also about how decisions are made for our region.

I’ve listened, and I’ve acted. I’ve spoken directly with the project proponents to raise your concerns and requested detailed information about the proposal and how they intend to engage with our community moving forward.

Renewable energy will play an important role in Queensland’s future - but it must be pursued with care, consideration, and respect for the people and landscapes it touches.

The Crisafulli Government has strong guidelines in place for all wind-farm proposals, and I will continue to put our community first, keeping you informed every step of the way.

I encourage everyone to have your say. Visit the sites below to share your thoughts and learn more. Together, we can ensure the voices of The Whitsundays are heard loud and clear.

🗳 Have your say: www.amandacamm.com.au/mt-challenger-wind-farm
📄 Planning info: www.planning.qld.gov.au/planning-issues-and-interests/wind-farms
🌿 Project details: www.mtchallengerwindfarm.com

Contributed with thanks to Amanda Camm MP, Member for Whitsunday

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Around 50 people in the community took part in the global Reclaim the Night movement last Saturday.

Hosted by Whitsunday Counselling and Support this first-ever local march to raise awareness about sexual violence and the right for everyone to feel safe at night.

The walk began at Coral Sea Marina and ended at the Airlie Beach foreshore stage, where participants gathered to share food and conversation.

Manager of Whitsunday Counselling and Support Sharon Parker said the inaugural turnout of around 50 people was encouraging. “

It went really well, and we’re hoping to grow it each year,” she said.

The event was held as part of Sexual Violence Awareness Month and received strong community support. Local police joined the walk, along with representatives from Zonta and staff from MP Amanda Camm’s office.

Reclaim the Night is an international campaign that began in the UK during the 1970s as a protest against violence towards women and restrictions placed on their freedom of movement after dark. The movement challenges the notion that women should modify their behaviour to stay safe, instead calling for accountability from perpetrators and a cultural shift towards shared community responsibility.

Sharon said she hopes the Reclaim the Night walk will become an annual event in the Whitsundays. “It’s a message that deserves to keep growing,” she said.

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Members of Whitsunday Counselling and Support at the start of the march
Whitsunday Police Station attended the march

Photos supplied

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Airlie Beach’s first-ever Big Freeze proved a huge success, raising around $13,000 for FightMND over the weekend.

Event organiser and local FightMND representative Katrina Duggan said the day exceeded expectations, drawing strong community support and plenty of fun.

“It was an absolutely fantastic day, and we’ve had such great feedback,” she said.

About $13,000 was raised on the day through merchandise sales, raffle tickets, donations, and a sausage sizzle, with local businesses donating 42 raffle prizes to help boost the total.

The event was part of the national FightMND campaign, which raises awareness and funds for research into Motor Neurone Disease.

“It was incredible to see how many people and businesses got behind it,” Katrina said.

“We’re going to be back bigger and better next year."

Next year’s Big Freeze Airlie is set for October 24, 2026, with organisers hoping for an even larger turnout.

Full catalogue of event photos are available on the Club Whitsunday Facebook page.

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Cannonvale is one step closer to gaining a new community heart, with plans now lodged for the highly anticipated Cannonvale Community Hub, a $29.8 million project supported by the Australian Government’s Growing Regions Program.

The major development will deliver a modern library, customer service centre and a range of flexible community meeting spaces, all set within landscaped parkland. Together, these facilities will anchor Galbraith Park as the social and civic green heart of Cannonvale.

A Whitsunday Regional Council spokesperson says the project forms a key part of its long-term planning for the region’s growth, providing a central civic space that supports Cannonvale’s expanding coastal population. Over the past decade, strong population growth across Cannonvale and Cannon Valley has driven demand for community facilities in a central, mixed-use environment combining business, recreation and civic life.

The Hub will be located on the southern boundary of Galbraith Park. The site was chosen to avoid impacts on revegetation areas and flood zones while acting as the central civic anchor for Cannonvale’s evolving CBD and future town centre.

Once open, the Hub will replace Council’s existing Library and Customer Service Centre in Whitsunday Plaza, offering a larger, purpose-built facility with enhanced technology and programming.

It’s designed to complement not duplicate services already provided by other organisations such as the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, ensuring a balanced offering across the region’s community network.

Construction timing is being finalised through the design and tender process. Based on the current delivery schedule, Council expects to advertise tenders in early 2026, with clearer timeframes to be shared once a contractor is appointed.

Council is also developing a Galbraith Park Masterplan to ensure the new facilities integrate seamlessly into their surroundings and support long-term growth. Public consultation will open soon, with residents able to have their say through the Your Say Whitsunday online engagement portal, community information stalls, and at customer service centres.

Further details on how to get involved will be announced in the coming weeks.

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Big news for the Whitsundays, Mayor Ry Collins has been appointed to the Host Mayors Advisory Group for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The advisory group plays a key role in shaping how the Games will benefit communities across Queensland, ensuring regional areas have a voice in planning and legacy outcomes. With the Whitsundays proudly set to host the Olympic sailing events, Mayor Collins’ appointment ensures the region is well represented as preparations for the world’s biggest sporting event continue to build momentum.

Mayor Collins said he was honoured to take on the role and to work alongside other Queensland mayors to help deliver meaningful, long-term benefits for communities outside the southeast corner.

“It was a great week of collaboration, innovation and inspiration, from shaping Olympic opportunities for the Whitsundays to championing local government issues that matter most to our communities,” Mayor Collins said.

Mayor Collins’ appointment was announced while he was on the Gold Coast attending the Annual Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) State Conference, alongside CEO Warren Bunker and Councillors Jan Clifford, Clay Bauman and John Finlay.

The conference provided an opportunity for councils across Queensland to debate key issues, share ideas, and strengthen local government collaboration across the state.

Mayor Collins said the event reinforced the importance of teamwork and innovation as councils prepare for the opportunities the Brisbane 2032 Games will bring to regions like the Whitsundays.

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With storm season now upon us (November to April), residents are urged to stay alert and prepare for cyclones and severe storms, which can bring destructive winds over 200km/h, heavy rain, flooding, lightning, hail, and storm surges.

Preparation is key. Secure outdoor furniture, wheelie bins, and loose items that could become dangerous in high winds. If you have a pool, submerge plastic furniture to prevent it flying around. Park vehicles under shelter, unplug electrical appliances, and ensure your emergency kit includes a battery-powered radio, clean water, and essential supplies.

If a cyclone warning is issued, stay tuned to local updates, contact family and neighbours, and follow all instructions from authorities. Those living in storm tide evacuation zones should plan to stay with friends or family on higher ground. Cyclone shelters are available only as a last resort, with your local council announcing openings via ABC Radio and other media.

If you remain at home during a storm, shelter well clear of windows and doors, and if the structure begins to give way, take cover in the strongest part of your house, such as a hallway or internal room.

After the storm passes, remain cautious—fallen trees, powerlines, and floodwaters pose serious risks. Boil water until declared safe, and avoid sightseeing or driving through affected areas.

For more information on emergency kits, evacuation plans, and weather warnings, visit your local council’s website, www.getready.qld.gov.au/getting-ready/protect-your-home or www.qld.gov.au/emergency/dealing-disasters/disaster-types/cyclone-severe-storm.

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January's rainfall saw floodwaters cut across the highway near Proserpine (Photo Credit: Mayor Ry Collins)

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Last Thursday evening Bowen State High School celebrated their 65th Academic Awards Ceremony.

Held at McKenna Hall infront of a full audience students from the school were congratualted for thier remarkable achievements.

On the night Principal Rob Harris said although a select group of students were recognised for their outstanding achievements, it is imporatnt to also acknowledge the collective contributions of the entire school community.

"Each student and staff member has played a vital role in our success, growing, and learning together throughout the year," Principal Harris said.

"Our awards evening was not just a celebration of educational achievements; but it was an opportunity to acknowledge the hard work, determination, and sacrifices made throughout the year by students and staff."

Princiapl Rob Harris noted that Bowen State High School recorded a strong year of improvement, focusing on strengthening academic support, behaviour expectations, and social-emotional learning to boost student outcomes.

In 2025, overall attendance remained above the regional benchmark of 85%, with First Nations students exceeding state targets. Academic performance across the junior years was also above expectations, with more than half of students in Years 7 to 9 earning A or B grades in English and Mathematics. Over 90% of junior students achieved a C or higher in Mathematics, and 87% did so in English.

Senior students are continuing that success, with more than 85% achieving a C or higher in core subjects—again outperforming state averages. Among Year 12s, over 98% are on track to receive a Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE), Queensland Certificate of Individual Achievement (QCIA), or vocational qualification.

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Whitsunday Coast Airport (WCA) continues to soar as Australia’s fastest-growing regional airport, with Jetstar introducing its new Airbus A321 aircraft on selected routes.

The upgraded aircraft started last Sunday and offers 230 seats, up from 186, and, combined with ten additional weekly services, will deliver a 30 per cent boost in total capacity for the Whitsundays. It creates an extra 117,000 seats annually, creating more opportunities for visitors to experience the region and supporting the growth of one of Australia’s fastest-growing tourism destinations.

Mayor Ry Collins said the investment reflects Jetstar’s strong confidence in the Whitsundays as a leading tourism and lifestyle destination.

“This is a fantastic vote of confidence in our region and a clear sign that demand for Whitsunday travel continues to grow,” Mayor Collins said.

“More seats mean more visitors, more opportunities for local businesses, and more reasons for Australians to choose the Whitsundays as their next getaway.”

Council’s Director of Commercial Businesses, Craig Turner, said the upgrade highlights both the strength of WCA’s core markets and the airport’s strategic focus on sustainable expansion.

“Jetstar’s decision to deploy the A321s to the Whitsundays demonstrates their long-term commitment to our destination,” he said.

“While the Whitsundays–Adelaide service will wind down early next year as part of Jetstar’s wider network optimisation, this capacity boost across Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne more than offsets that change.”

Mr Turner added that discussions are already underway with airlines for potential new domestic routes, with announcements expected in 2026.

With passenger numbers continuing to climb, the WCA now offers over half a million low-fare seats annually and is cementing its reputation as Australia’s fastest-growing regional airport by capacity.

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Jetstar's new Airbus A321 aircraft started operations at the Whitsunday Coast Airport last Sunday. Stock image

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The Proserpine PCYC was buzzing with activity over the weekend as more than 600 people turned out for this year’s Haunted House event.

Crowds lined up from start to finish to experience the spooky attraction, which featured a redesigned layout allowing visitors to queue in air-conditioned comfort.

Sergeant Billy Li from PCYC Whitsunday emphasized how great the event went, and can't wait for next year.

Alongside the Haunted House, an escape room run by St Catherine’s Catholic College students proved equally popular, with every session booked out. The students took part through the Duke of Edinburgh program, raising funds for their upcoming Adventurous Journey, while the event also supported PCYC programs including gymnastics.

PCYC’s gymnastics program continues to grow, running five days a week and catering to everyone from toddlers in Kindy Gym through to teenagers.

The Haunted House provided a fun and safe Halloween activity for local families, while also helping to raise funds for youth programs across the community.

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In 2024, Beachfront Collaborative officially launched as the Whitsundays’ answer to flexible, high-quality workspaces. The idea was sparked by the team at PD Law, who often use the space themselves. Today, it offers a calm, professional environment designed for the wider community.

The coworking hub offers everything from hot desks and a WiFi lounge to a soundproof pod for private calls and a sophisticated boardroom perfect for training or presentations – all available to book by the hour, seven days a week.

The motivation was clear: locals, business travellers, and corporates needed an alternative to cafés, hotel lobbies, or makeshift home offices. Beachfront Collaborative is that solution, bringing professionalism and productivity together in a relaxed, lifestyle-driven setting.

Remote work culture, the rise of digital nomads, and the growing demand for flexible ‘on-the-go’ professional spaces are shaping the way we work — and industry trends are firmly on their side. To meet these needs, Beachfront Collaborative offers a seamless online booking system, open 6am–9pm daily, with no membership required, a rare innovation in regional Queensland.

Introducing coworking to the Whitsundays came with its own challenges. Often seen as something tied to big-city start-up hubs, the team shaped it to reflect calm Whitsunday vibes — professional yet relaxed. Clear signage, a two-minute booking process, and partnerships with local favourites like Fat Frog Café have made it simple and inviting for the community.

Their advice for other business owners?

Meet your clients where they are: Understand what they’re really struggling with, and design solutions that make life easier, not harder.

Keep it simple: From pricing to booking, make every touchpoint seamless. People appreciate clarity and ease.

Build local connections: Strong partnerships with local cafés, accommodation providers, and tourism organisations have been instrumental to our success.

For Beachfront Collaborative, Chamber membership has amplified opportunities, providing valuable connections, collaborations, and a platform to showcase how regional business can be both innovative and lifestyle-aligned. Now, they’re inviting locals and visitors alike to experience it first-hand. With hot desks starting from just $11 an hour, it’s the perfect way to discover a focused, calm workspace that blends productivity with Whitsunday lifestyle.

Learn more about Beachfront Collaborative: https://beachfrontcollaborative.com.au/

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry

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Looking Ahead to 2032

It has been an exciting few weeks for our region, and I am honoured to represent the Whitsundays on the Host Mayors Advisory Group for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

With the Whitsundays confirmed as the host for Olympic sailing, this appointment gives our community a seat at the table as Queensland prepares to welcome the world. It means we can help shape the planning and delivery of an event that will bring long-term benefits for regional Queensland, not just for the southeast corner.

The Advisory Group is chaired by Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner and includes Mayors from across the state who will work together to make sure the Games deliver real value for our communities. It is about more than sport. It is about building stronger regional connections, creating economic opportunities, and leaving a legacy that will inspire future generations.

For the Whitsundays, the 2032 Games are a once-in-a-lifetime chance to showcase our region on the global stage. We will see investment in transport, tourism and community infrastructure, but just as importantly, it will highlight our incredible natural setting and the spirit of the people who live here.

Last week I also joined Councillors Jan Clifford, Clay Bauman and John Finlay, along with our CEO Warren Bunker, at the annual Local Government Association of Queensland Conference on the Gold Coast. It is always a valuable opportunity for councils to come together, share ideas and tackle the issues that affect us all.

We took part in discussions on service delivery, housing, technology, and the challenges of cost shifting from other levels of government. Councils also debated and voted on more than one hundred motions aimed at improving how we serve our communities.

Events like this remind me how much energy and innovation exists within local government. It is often said we are the level of government closest to the community, and that is true. Every decision we make has a direct impact on the people who live, work and raise families in our Whitsundays.

I left the conference confident that, together, we are helping to shape a bright future for the Whitsundays and for regional Queensland.

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The Aged Care Reform Info Hub is now open at Proserpine Library! As part of the hub, we’re hosting a special one-hour information session at 10am on Thursday 6 November at the library.

The session will feature guest speakers from the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing, along with Aged Care Specialist Officers from Services Australia.

This is an excellent opportunity to learn about the latest aged care reforms, receive guidance on the My Aged Care platform and access expert advice and resources to support yourself or your loved ones.

For more information, contact Proserpine Library on 4945 0275.

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SUGAR BIN COLLAPSES

Fifty years ago, on Monday, November 3 1975, just after 3 pm, word raced through the town that the ninety foot, 3000 ton sugar bin at the Proserpine Sugar Mill (PSM) had collapsed. This shocking news was followed quickly by a wave of relief when residents learned that no one was injured in this disaster. By nightfall, thousands of sightseers, most armed with cameras, had inspected the damage. The disaster attracted media attention nationwide.

The sugar bin was the largest sugar storage container in the Australian industry apart from bulk terminals and represented an important step forward for the mill which was the most isolated of all mills in terms of proximity to bulk terminals. Designed and constructed by NQEA, it was commissioned for use at the start of the 1975 crushing, but until that fateful day had not been filled to anywhere near its capacity.

To make up for previous lost crushing time, the mill had continued through the weekend and by Monday morning the bin was nearing capacity for the first time. After lunch, Queensland Government Railway (QGR) sugar wagons were shunted into the rail sidings under the bin. Loading had just commenced when some startling noises were heard from the structure. Workmen loading sugar from the huge hopper received a warning when bolts began to fly apart like pistol shots. They immediately fled from the site and the area was evacuated as the gigantic bin began to buckle and crumple downwards. It was estimated that from the first snapping of the bolts and buckling, ten minutes elapsed before the collapse was complete. Fortunately, the bin fell towards the river otherwise it would have been extremely difficult to construct the temporary facilities which allowed crushing to recommence the very next day.

What followed was a marathon effort by all. Within an hour, salvage work had commenced. Mill employees worked throughout the night construct facilities to load sugar to rail - some being on duty for more than 24 hours. The tramway department laid rails around the collapse to rejoin the existing siding. Fitters, boilermakers, electricians, and trades assistants built a ramp and small hopper to load the rail wagons and diverted and constructed belt conveyors and bunkers within the mill. The two mobile cranes were unable to keep pace with requirements and as a result, a lot of the material had to be moved by hand – even large heavy steel girders some fifteen metres long were man handled from the backyard into the mill. These were placed on their side and supported to allow end loaders carrying sugar from a bunker inside the mill to be driven up to a small loading hopper erected over the boxes on QGR sugar wagons.

Plant operators from the mill and the Proserpine Shire Council performed this non-stop and extremely arduous task for several weeks until a vessel intended to be the new mud and fly ash bin was erected with its own conveyor system. Thanks to the steady and capable action of mill officials and workers, almost all of the sugar from the collapsed bin was reclaimed. Thankfully, too, the weather remained fine. The spilt sugar was open to the elements and rain would have been a calamity.

A new bin was commissioned and built. None of the steel work from the original structure could be used in this new bin as every component was distorted. The new bin was put into service twelve months later in November 1976 and is still in use today.

Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum. Information also sourced from Frank Doolan (PSM Engineer 1978 - 1990) and “Proserpine Guardian”.

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A collapsed sugar bin engulfed two rakes of rail wagons. Photo supplied.

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