The first citizenship ceremony of 2025 took place last Friday, with 44 individuals taking the pledge to become new Australians, under the officiation of Mayor Ry Collins.
The new citizens came from diverse corners of the globe, representing a rich tapestry of cultures and backgrounds. While some had only recently made their homes in the community, others had been valued residents for more than a quarter of a century.
Over the long weekend, festivities continued with the Australian Day Awards where long-standing community members were recognised for their contributions.
Matt Stokes, President of the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network, was honored with the prestigious Citizen of the Year Award.
His leadership and unwavering commitment to mental health have been nothing short of inspiring.
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This Brand new Australian Citizens.

Community Celebrates Citizen of the Year

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Matt Stokes was awarded the 2025 Citizen of the Year at the Australia Day Award Ceremony. A prominent figure in the Whitsundays, Matt was honoured for his steadfast dedication to creating a lasting, positive impact on the lives of those around him.
As President of the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN), Matt has organised an accolade of fundraisers and events, including the impactful “Legends Night,” which raised over $20,000 for vital community programs.
Matt, said he was extremely surprised to have received the award:
“For me winning that award, I honestly didn't think I was going to get it!” he shared.
“I know so many people in this town who are absolute war horses of volunteering, and they've done 20 years of just grunt work in our town, and I think they’re more deserving than me.
Despite his initial shock, Matt expressed pride and mentioned that the experience had inspired him. He also shared his intention to leverage his new title to maximize support for WSPN.
“I absolutely love the Whitsunday community!” he expressed.
“Being president of WSPN has just restored my faith in humanity so much because when we're doing fundraising or an event, our community is so generous and kind.”
Matt has always believed in participating in volunteer work within communities.
“It just was such meaningful work, and I could see the results and the benefit, and I just truly believed in it, so it wasn't a chore,” Matt explained.
Matt’s passion for community well-being was also recognised in the award, having mentored young people, supported local outreach initiatives and participated in programs that foster connection and resilience.
“Mentoring is, a big one, it's a very different world to how I was brought up and grew up,” he explained.
“That's the space that I like to work with, when working with young people, so if they've got a gap there, I aim to help fill it, giving advice and just general life wisdom.”
Matt explained how it’s hard to pinpoint the main drivers of mental health issues in the Whitsundays, with mental health being on such a broad spectrum. His advice for anyone going through a hard time is, “Don't bottle it up.”
“The worst thing you can do is shut down and say nothing, your mind will make a small thing into a big thing, so talking with a friend or a relative will put perspective back on the situation.”
To continue to help support the WSPN and community, follow their socials to keep track of events and how to help them, including their next 2025 Legends Night which will be held on 20th June 2025.
Congratulations to our new Citizen of the Year Matt Stokes!

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Matt Stokes, President of WSPN and now Citizen of the Year

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Find the social pics here: https://tinyurl.com/23d77j38

Hi Everyone,

Standing with my feet in the sand as the lively waves rushed past and our children squealed with delight, I caught myself smiling.

Not just smiling, but grinning - wide and big – and I didn’t even realise I was doing it!

That’s what holidays are about.

From boogie boarding the surf of Wategos and Mooloolaba to feeding the birds and marvelling at the glow-worms at O’Reilly’s rainforest retreat to a relaxing time with family on Bribie Island - our holiday was both diverse and nourishing to the soul.  

The last two weeks of my life has been time to relax, time for family, time to have fun, time to reconnect with the carefree Rach who is taking a breath away from the weekly rush of the newspaper deadlines.

Every day it was blissful to wake up without an alarm, wonder from activity to activity without once checking my watch and even indulge in the occasional afternoon nap.

I am sure many of you have enjoyed some time off over the last few months – some of you may even be retired (you lucky things!) – and I hope you can relate to the pleasure of this freedom from commitments.

Life, however, would soon get boring without a purpose and a passion, and for that reason I am always happy to return to work (even with a head cold!)

Thank you to the team who all contributed in keeping the papers humming along nicely, they did an excellent job of course! A special thanks to Ruth Puddefoot for leading the editorial in Whitsunday Life, her passion and dedication is so noticeable in everything she does.

Now that I am back at work, I feel like 2025 has kick-started in my life and I am looking forward to a great year ahead.

A wise man once said that all you need to do is be 1% better than yesterday and I totally agree – over time that 1% soon adds up!

Rach

Quote of the Week: "If you can get 1% better each day for one year, you'll end up thirty-seven times better by the time you're done” (James Clear)

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After four months of investigations, QPS Forensic Crash Unit has charged a 61-year-old Bowen man with dangerous operation of a vehicle causing death whilst adversely affected by an intoxicating substance and did drive UIL.
The fatal Myrtlevale incident under investigation occurred at approximately 5pm on the 15th of September 2024 and tragically resulted in the death of 22-year-old Wangige Kiumbura from Burdell.
Emergency services were called to a two-vehicle crash involving a Holden utility and a BMW sedan on the Bruce Highway and upon arrival, the BMW was fully engulfed in flames with the driver, Ms Kiumbura, declared deceased a short time later. The driver of the utility, a 61-year-old Bowen man was airlifted to Mackay Base Hospital in a critical condition.
He is due to appear in the Proserpine Magistrates Court on Monday the 24th of February.

BMA CQ Rescue attended the Myrtlevale crash last September

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Remy, an abused bull terrier rescued from death row at the local pound found himself in the caring hands of the folks at the Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc. Sore, broken and neglected, his pain was evident to the volunteers who took him in.
Remy was diagnosed with an eye infection, a severe skin infection covering his body and luxating patella, meaning he could barely walk and was in terrible pain. He needed surgery but the procedure was too expensive for the volunteer organisation to afford alone, and so they reached out to the local community seeking aid.
All the loving hearts of the Whitsundays came together and transcended expectations for this darling doggy. In just two days, an enormous amount of money was raised and the surgery goal was met and then almost doubled! Raising close to $5000, Remy can now get the treatments and surgery he needs.
What a shining and supportive community, helping those neglected to begin to live again. Remy is now in a wonderful foster home and starting to trust humans again. He is wagging his tail, playing games with other dogs and is learning commands and communication through hand signals. Always ready for a snuggle, he is becoming more confident by the day, thank you to everyone who has donated.
If you would like to provide support, the Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc. has a mycause page, or you can donate directly to their chosen bank account. Check out their Facebook page for more information and adopt or support a dog today.

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Remy romping about. Photo Sourced: Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc. Facebook page.

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December was a landmark month for Whitsunday Coast Airport, as passenger numbers surged to new heights. Whitsunday Regional Council is excited to announce that December 22nd set a new daily passenger record, with 2,524 travellers passing through the airport’s terminal. This impressive achievement highlights the region's growing appeal as a top holiday destination.
The Christmas period brought a wave of visitors, many arriving for festive getaways or long-awaited family reunions in the stunning Whitsundays. From families reuniting on the beach to holidaymakers exploring the region's breathtaking natural beauty, the airport buzzed with excitement as passengers arrived to enjoy all that the Whitsundays has to offer.
Looking ahead, the council is optimistic about continuing this growth in 2025. With January already shaping up to be another busy month, there's a strong possibility the airport could break the 50,000-passenger mark for the first time. This would be a major milestone for the airport and a testament to the increasing popularity of the Whitsundays as a sought-after tourist destination.
The council extended its gratitude to all travellers for choosing the Whitsundays and to the dedicated team at Whitsunday Coast Airport for their hard work during the busy period. The record-breaking numbers reflect the growing demand for the region and the airport's ability to meet it, ensuring a bright future for tourism in the area.

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Airport numbers soar!

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The latest Citizenship Ceremony took place at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre last Sunday, where Mayor Ry Collins had the honor of conferring Australian citizenship to 44 new citizens.
These new Australians come from a wide range of countries, each bringing their own unique stories and backgrounds to the celebration.
Becoming an Australian citizen is a deeply personal decision, one that is met with warmth and pride across the nation. Citizenship represents a commitment to Australia’s values, freedoms, responsibilities, and protections. It signifies dedication to the democratic process, respect for the rights and liberties of others, and a shared responsibility to uphold Australian laws.
The Whitsunday Region is a shining example of Australia’s multicultural society. Our diversity is not only reflected in the visitors who come to explore our beautiful corner of the world, but also in the many immigrants who have chosen to call this place home.
Mayor Ry Collins shared his excitement for the new citizens, saying:
“Today is a day to celebrate our community, our culture, our pride, and just how lucky we are to be Australian.
“It was heartening to see the joy and excitement at the ceremony, with so many friends, family, and loved ones coming together to mark this special occasion.
“Well done to all!”
Welcome and congratulations to all the new Australian citizens.

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Whitsunday Regional Council has honoured our community champions with a special Australia Day Awards ceremony held at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre. Mayor Ry Collins said the awards are a special opportunity to celebrate the incredible individuals and groups who make the Whitsundays such a vibrant and connected community.
“These awards are about recognising the extraordinary contributions that help shape our region, from inspiring leaders to those who quietly work behind the scenes to support others,” said Mayor Collins.
“Honouring these remarkable individuals is a powerful reminder of the importance of community spirit and the role it plays in making the Whitsundays a wonderful place to live.
“It’s not just about celebrating achievements; it’s about acknowledging the values and dedication that bring us together as a community.”
The full list of the Whitsunday Region Australia Day Award Winners 2025 are as follows:
Whitsunday Regional Council Awards
Citizen of the Year Award – Matt Stokes (Sponsor: Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce)
Over the past decade, Matt has shown unwavering dedication to making a positive impact in the lives of others. His involvement with Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network has been particularly inspiring.
Through his leadership and commitment, he has helped to break down stigmas surrounding mental health and champion open conversations about suicide prevention. His efforts have supported numerous events and fundraisers, which raised over $20,000 for vital community programs.

Citizen of the Year, Matt Stokes. Photo credit: Stories in Light Imagery

Young Citizen of the Year – Cooper Groocock (Sponsor: McDonalds Whitsunday)
As the 2024 School President, Cooper has gone above and beyond to support and uplift those around him. He has led initiatives such as Spirit Week and fundraisers, fostering teamwork and enthusiasm among his peers.

Young Citizen of the Year, Cooper Groocock. Photo credit: Stories in Light Imagery

Mayoral Awards – Dr Arthur Trezise, Brittaney O’Brien and Susan Gravelle

Dr. Arthur Trezise is a true pillar of the Bowen community. For over 40 years, Dr. Trezise has dedicated his life to providing exceptional medical care, touching the lives of countless residents. Dr. Trezise’s exceptional service, mentorship and devotion to his profession have earned him profound respect and admiration.

Meanwhile, Brittaney O'Brien is a true trailblazer in the world of motorcycle racing. In a sport traditionally dominated by men, Brittaney is an empowering role model for young women, showing that excellence knows no boundaries. Her fellow riders admire her not only for her talent but also for her unwavering support, exceptional sportsmanship, and genuine celebration of others’ achievements.

In addition, Sue Gravelle is recognised as a cornerstone of the Whitsunday community for over 40 years. Her unwavering dedication and tireless volunteer work has touched countless lives and made a profound impact on our region. Sue’s incredible ability to identify community needs and inspire action makes her an invaluable volunteer.

Mayoral Award recipient, Dr Arthur Trezise. Photo credit: Stories in Light Imagery

Mayoral Award recipient, Susan Gravelle. Photo credit: Stories in Light Imagery

Mayoral Award recipient, Brittaney O'Brien. Photo credit: Stories in Light Imagery

Volunteer of the Year – Natasha O’Neil (Sponsor: Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon)
Natasha O’Neil was recognised for her tireless efforts in establishing and sustaining a vital support group for cancer and ostomy patients in Bowen. Natasha’s dedication has been a lifeline for individuals seeking support, resources and guidance in navigating the challenges of living with an ostomy bag. Under her supportive leadership the group has grown, where members share experiences, discuss challenges and provide one another with invaluable support.

Community Group Award – Whitsunday Brahmans (Sponsor: Bendigo Bank Cannonvale/Proserpine)
The Whitsunday Brahmans were commended for their incredible contribution to our community through their inaugural "Family Field Day" in 2024 at Les Stagg Oval. Organised by a dedicated group of volunteers, this event was a heartfelt way for the Brahmans to bring everyone together and give back to the community that supports Proserpine Rugby League.

Representatives from the Whitsunday Brahmans. Photo credit: Stories in Light Imagery

Senior Sportsperson Award – Michael Kimpton (Sponsor: Tassal)
This award honours Michael Kimpton, a 70-year-old retired triathlete and an extraordinary leader in the Whitsundays sports community. Michael began his triathlon journey at 64, transforming his retirement into an inspiring chapter of athletic achievement. He has competed in prestigious events worldwide, including the Ironman World Championships in Hawaii and the World Multisport Championships in Townsville. Through his journey, Michael has proven that resilience and determination know no limits.

Sportsperson Award, Michael Kimpton. Photo credit: Stories in Light Imagery

Young Sportsperson Award – Jure Portelli (Sponsor: Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon)
Jure Portelli has quickly made her mark on the racing world with talent, dedication and a drive to succeed. In 2024, Jure built on her impressive 2023 accomplishments, including selection for the prestigious Ferrari Driving Academy’s Rising Star Program. Competing in events across Queensland and South Australia. Beyond the track, Jure actively gives back to the community, supporting local charities through car shows and festivals.

Young Sportsperson Award, Jure Portelli

Environmental Achievement Award – Eco Barge Clean Seas (Sponsor: Green Energy Technologies)
Proudly acknowledging the incredible impact of Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc., a not-for-profit environmental organisation based in Airlie Beach that has been a champion for marine life and the aquatic environment in the Whitsunday region since 2009. Over the past 15 years, Eco Barge has removed an astounding 256,784 kilograms of marine debris from our beaches and waterways. With the dedication of a passionate committee, 55 members and over 2,000 volunteers, Eco Barge inspires community action and fosters a greater awareness of the importance of protecting our marine environment.

Environmental Achievement Award, Eco Barge Clean Seas

Arts & Cultural Award – Seagrass Theatre and Music Company (Sponsor: Creative Connections Whitsunday)
The Seagrass Theatre troupe was established just three years ago by a passionate group of students and has grown into an inclusive platform for young people to explore and showcase their talents in acting, music and technical production. Through teamwork, creativity and exceptional problem-solving, these students demonstrated not only their artistic talent but also their ability to work collaboratively toward a shared vision. Their success is a testament to their dedication, passion and the power of youth-led initiatives to enrich our cultural community.

Seagrass Theatre and Music Company

Australia Day Achievement Awards for outstanding members of the Queensland SES - Suzanne Connors (Whitsunday-Prosperine) for dedication and commitment as a Peer Support Officer and Coordinator for SES and Kevin Maude (Bowen) for Outstanding contribution to the successful management of the Bowen SES Group.

^{Certificate of Achievement Suzanne Connors}

Collinsville Community Centre (CCA) Awards:
Community Sports Award – Katie Humble
Community Group of the year Award– Collinsville St Vincent De Paul
Environmental Achievement Award – Garry Reed
Arts & Cultural Award – St John Bosco School – for the “Johhny Bosco Beats” Program
Collinsville Volunteer of the Year Award – Diane Watts
CCA Community Spirit Award – Kathleen Morrissey (Kathy)
Young Citizen of the Year Award – Cooper Groocock
Citizen of the Year Award - Marissa Kearney

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This month the Chamber meet Jannah Baker and Jason Weir from Scallywag Fabrication, an aluminium manufacturing business producing a range of adventure, tradie, and lifestyle products tailored for regional Queensland. They specialise in aluminium-based trays, canopies, and 4x4 accessories designed to withstand the demands of the Australian outdoors.

Jason grew up in Bowen, often working on utes and boats to make them more functional for fishing, camping, and off-roading adventures. His partner, Mackay-born Jannah, shares the same passion for the outdoors and brings extensive business and innovation experience to their business.
Scallywag Fabrication launched in 2020, from tinkering that started on a small balcony in inner-city Brisbane and has grown into a fully operational manufacturing facility in Conway, the Whitsundays.

The manufacturing industry has always seen strong competition from overseas markets due to lower costs. However, COVID-19 has shifted consumer preferences towards Australian-made, locally sourced, high-quality products. In addition, they are seeing a push towards integrating advanced machinery and technology in smaller fabrication workshops requiring new skill and trade qualifications.

Scallywag Fabrication is excited to be part of these industry changes, proudly championing Australian-made products and supporting local talent.

They have embraced cutting-edge technology with tools like the Multicam CNC machine, allowing them to manufacture products with unparalleled precision and efficiency. Jason and Jannah are also exploring future technologies, including AI integration, robotic equipment, and the development of an Advanced Machinery Boilermaker qualification to equip the next generation of local tradespeople.

Scallywag Fabrication would also like to acknowledge the incredible support they’ve received from the local community. Implementing new technology and scaling a business in regional Queensland is no small feat, and they couldn’t have achieved what they have without the encouragement and shared expertise from their regional network.

They have recently been recognised by the Greater Whitsunday Alliance as a Change Champion for the region, highlighting their commitment to innovation and driving support the Whitsundays and beyond.

Jason and Jannah top tips for other business owners are:

·        Fail forward: Every ‘failure’ is an opportunity to learn and grow. Embrace the setbacks, because persistence often turns them into success. Don’t give up!
·        Support your local network: There’s no room for rivalry among small businesses in regional areas. By uplifting each other, we can all succeed together. We’re proud North Queenslanders and actively support North Queensland businesses.
·        Invest in future skills: Stay up to date with the latest technology and automate repetitive tasks so you can focus on what truly matters. Embracing innovation today will pay off tomorrow.
The Chamber has given Scallywag Fabrication a supportive community where they can share challenges, gain insights, and know there’s always help available. Being part of this network makes it easier to follow their own advice on learning, supporting others, and growing as a business. Jannah is also a member of the Chamber Board.

Learn more about Scallywag Fabrication online at https://www.scallywagfabrication.com/

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Jannah Baker and Jason Weir

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Not all properties will benefit from sandbagging, in fact sometimes it can do more harm than good! Make sure you are aware of the flow of water around your property during high rainfall events before deciding whether sandbags will be useful to you. 
 
Sandbags are only effective when used correctly. They should only ever be filled two-thirds full and be folder over, rather than tied at the top. Lay them like brickwork, staggering the rows so that’s the joins do not line up. 
 
Sandbags will not fully protect your home, but they can help to reduce water infiltration and damage. In the event of disaster and flooding, please only take what you require to ensure there are enough sandbags for those with the greatest need.
 
For more information, head to Council’s website.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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The car was left extremely damaged after the ordeal

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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