Proserpine Golf Club is hosting a fantastic fundraising event in support of Breast Cancer and Prostate awareness day.
The event was organised in response to several club members having both breast and prostate cancer. Additionally, event organiser Noelene Spurway was personally impacted, with both her father and a close friend battling one of these cancers.
In previous years, the club has primarily focused on fundraising for breast cancer awareness. However, recognising that prostate cancer is equally significant, the club has decided to expand its efforts this year to support both causes.
This year's event will consist of a variety of activities, including a ‘Best Dressed’ competition, live music and a BBQ. If that isn't enough to get you excited, the club will also be auctioning off a framed signed football jersey donated by Filby's Motors and framed by Whitsunday Framing, a Broncos Jersey, a trip to the reef and a fishing charter, alongside much more.
There will also be a raffle and a 100’s Board, to keep you entertained throughout the day, and to help fundraise for the cause.
If transport is a worry for you, Whitsunday Transport will be providing rides to and from the event for a gold coin donation. The bus will be stopping at all major bus stops from Proserpine to Jubilee Pocket, to ensure anyone wanting to attend the event, can.
Another great perk is that you don’t need to be a club member to join in — everyone is welcome to come out and support the cause. Whether you create your own corporate team or simply show up to play, your participation makes a difference!
Noelene Spurway added that she looks forward to seeing individuals come and support the cause:
“Nearly everyone will have been touched by prostate or breast cancer, whether it's having it themselves, or a friend or family member having it, there's very few people it hasn't touched.
“We are just trying to raise as much money as possible for breast and prostate cancer.”
Prostate and breast cancer are two of the most common forms of cancer, with 1 in 6 men being diagnosed with prostate cancer and 1 in 7 women getting a breast cancer diagnosis. It is, therefore, highly important to support these events.
Join the Proserpine Golf Club for a day of fun and fundraising! Play your best round while fundraising for breast and prostate cancer – and who knows, you might even score a hole-in-one!

‍

What: Breast and Prostate Cancer Awareness Day
When: 24th November, 2024, 10am
Where: Proserpine Golf Club
‍

Come support Prostate and Breast Cancer Awareness day

‍

Rescued from Burdekin Pound, Squid and Sprinky are the perfect puppy pair—full of energy, adventurous spirits, and a love for exploration. These two are waterplay enthusiasts and can't get enough of cuddling with their foster family. Their playful nature and affectionate personalities make them an absolute joy to be around!

Their crate training is progressing smoothly, and they are picking up valuable pack manners from their older dog companions. In addition to enjoying the company of their canine friends, they are also learning to interact respectfully with other animals, including cats and their kittens, chickens, sheep, and cattle.

Both pups will be at Bowen Pets Domain on Saturday 9 November 2024 for the Pets Domain Market, or If you can't wait to adopt Squid or Sprinky email: bcpri_adoptions@outlook.com with your contact number and email address.

‍

Breed: Cattle x Lab
Sex: Both male
Age: 3 months
Size: Will grow to be medium sized
Adoption fee: $400 each (includes desex at 6 months)
Vaccinations: Both have been microchipped, heartworm vax, puppy vaccinations, vet checked and flea, tick, and worm.

‍

Embracing the Queensland Government’s 2023-2024 accessible tourism push, Endeavour Foundation has launched an inclusive video showcasing the Whitsundays, hosted by locals Jenny and Charlie.
“It was really good to do the video again. It was a good challenge, I got to see lots of great things, and loved doing the walk on Whitehaven Beach … I was that happy about it all, I had a sing on the boat,” said Charlie, who attends Endeavour Foundation’s Learning and Lifestyle hub in Cannonvale.
Jenny echoed his excitement, saying, “Doing the video again was fun. It was great to be able to tell people what they could do here in the Whitsundays. I want to do it all again!” She emphasised the importance of highlighting accessible options, so viewers can make safe, informed decisions about their travel.
The video showcases inclusive activities, starting in Airlie before heading to Daydream Island and Whitehaven Beach. It features jet skis, a semi-submersible, and more, with two-year-old therapy dog Toby also making an appearance, the region’s first onboard therapy dog.
A 2024 report revealed that 23% of all domestic holidays are taken by people with disabilities, representing 18.5 million trips worth $6.8 billion.
“People with disability are on the move and want to get out and explore,” said Endeavour Foundation spokesperson, Jasmin Forsyth.
The video introduces innovative, multi-use, waterproof headsets that reduce noise during water activities, enhancing accessibility for all visitors.
Making tourism accessible is crucial so that everyone can enjoy their holidays. Endeavour Foundation has a proud seven-decade history of providing support and advocating for Australians with intellectual disabilities.

‍

It would have been difficult enough for any parent that one child enlisted in war, but imagine the feelings of Douglas and Frances (nee Myles) Debney when all three of their sons signed up to serve. Having himself trained in the Light Horse militia in the early part of the 20th Century, and having seen his older brother go off to the Boer War, Douglas Debney Snr fully understood his sons’ patriotic spirit and a thirst for adventure and agreed to their enlistment.
Corporal Harry Stanley Debney QX2390 and brother, Private Douglas Ross Debney QX 2389, enlisted in Miowera on 24/05/1940 and both in the 2/15th Battalion 9th Division. Initially, Harry had been turned down due to a hernia, however after it was repaired, he successfully enlisted. Due to an intermittent heartbeat, Douglas had also previously been knocked back twice. On his third attempt, and under his threat to go to New Zealand to enlist if he failed again, the medical officer signed him off but with the comment, “no need to be so bloody arrogant about it.”

The brothers’ first campaign was Tobruk. Despite many near misses and daily dodging of the 5.30pm German artillery bombardment, both Harry and Doug survived five long months in the heat, dust, sand storms, unbearable fleas, regular night patrols into “no man’s land” and rations sometimes as low as a pint of brackish water a day to drink and wash, two hard biscuits and 1/2 tin of bully beef captured from the Italian food dumps and which the Aussies swore was horse meat.

The second campaign in which the brothers were involved was the Battle of El Alamein. There were two battles; the first in July 1942 which was inconclusive but halted further progress of the Germans into Egypt and towards the Suez Canal. The second offensive on 01/09/1942 and code named “Operation Bulimba”, was a frontal infantry assault on entrenched German positions. As such, casualties were expected to be high, so orders were given that no two brothers were to take part in this action together. Whether through bond, a sense of commitment to each other, or honour, neither Doug nor Harry would back down. Both went into battle that dawn.

During “Operation Bulimba”, Doug was the section’s Tommy gunner. As their division approached the German line, he fired off his 50 round circular magazine across the top of the sandbags of the enemy’s trenches. The Germans replied with mortars and as the incoming mortar rounds exploded, many of his section died. Sadly, Corporal Harry Debney was one of these casualties. He is buried in the El Alamein War Cemetery and is honoured on Proserpine’s cenotaph and the Wall of Remembrance at Cannonvale. He was only 24 years old.
Doug was also seriously wounded when a close blast delivered its searing payload of shrapnel into both arms, shattering his left elbow and badly wounding his right shoulder and bicep. Bleeding profusely and just maintaining consciousness, his determination turned towards avoiding capture meaning certain death. In the desert environment, injuries as bad as his would be considered beyond treatment by even the most compassionate of enemies. Incapable of dressing his wounds, a couple of medics assisted him off the battle field and tried to stop the bleeding. Unable to help further, Doug told them to leave. Staggering back towards his lines, he was eventually picked up by stretcher bearers. He had lost so much blood that the medics gave him little chance of survival. Despite that he pulled through.
“Operation Bulimba” was the costliest single action for the 2/15th Battalion with approximately 45% casualties - dead and wounded.
On medical grounds, Private Douglas Debney was discharged on 06/08/1943. Upon his return home, he worked on the family cane farm at Cannon Valley despite being offered a full TPI pension. In 1956, he married Margaret Rose and they had two children, Howard and Lenise. In 1976, they sold the farm and moved to Sydney. Their farmhouse still stands today where the Butterfly Effect Nursery is situated on Shute Harbour Road.  

Douglas Debney died in Sydney on 30/11/2001 aged 89 years. His funeral took place at the RSL War Veterans Chapel in Collaroy.

Postscript: About six weeks after “Operation Bulimba” older brother, George Frederick Leonard Debney, Warrant Officer Class QX4606 went through the battle area and found a bloodstained Irish linen handkerchief with the initials DRD. He recognised it as a gift to Doug from an aunt. Nearby was an empty tommy gun 50 round magazine with a shrapnel hole. Douglas Debney had come close to death on the same battlefield on which his brother had been killed.
Lest we Forget

Story courtesy of Proserpine Historical Museum and Howard and Grahame Debney. Photos courtesy Debney family.

Corporal Harry Debney (KIA)
Private Douglas Debney

‍

Tourism Whitsundays recently hosted a talented group of journalists to showcase the incredible experiences our region has to offer. In collaboration with Virgin Australia, we welcomed six journalists for an exciting five-day famil trip that highlighted the diverse activities available in The Whitsundays. 

Representatives from Traveller, Australian Geographic, news.com.au, Pedestrian, Mamamia, and RUSSH joined us as we curated an itinerary that showcased the diverse activities in The Whitsundays. From bike rides through the stunning Conway National Park to delightful lunches at hidden gems like Montes, the trip was packed with unforgettable moments. Of course, no visit would be complete without exploring the icons of Whitehaven, Hill Inlet and the Great Barrier Reef. 

Stay tuned for their features, which will shine a spotlight on the diverse experiences, accommodations, and hospitality providers in our region. A big thank you to all our members who contributed to showcasing our region so beautifully!  

We’re always on the lookout for passionate operators to collaborate with, ensuring each experience truly reflects the unique offerings of our area. If you’re interested in getting involved or would like more information, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at pr@tourismwhitsundays.com.au. 
 
Contributed by Rosanagh Gallivan, PR & Social Media Executive, Tourism Whitsundays 

Photo supplied

‍

A trip to Montes Bar and Grill in Cape Gloucester is always a fantastic choice, and this visit was no exception! Zana and I had the pleasure of hosting visiting journalists for lunch, and we were thoroughly impressed by the exceptional food and top-notch customer service. 

We opted for a banquet-style menu to sample a variety of dishes, and we were left completely satisfied. Highlights included Peruvian grilled chicken with green chimmi and sticky achiote, market fish with fresh salsa verde, and a succulent 300g Emerald Valley sirloin steak. 

Montes is passionate about using fresh, local produce, and their culinary expertise runs deep— with manager Dan passing down all his expert secrets to his son, Sam. A young man destined to reach incredible heights in his culinary career! The menu features a delightful blend of South American, Spanish, and Italian influences within a modern Australian framework, with seafood and steaks as signature offerings. 

There's something magical about the colours of the ocean that perfectly enhances the dining experience. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Northern Cumberland Islands in the Whitsundays, Montes Bar and Grill is the perfect spot to relax and indulge! 

Contributed by Jade Yvonne, Business Development Executive, Tourism Whitsundays 

Photo supplied
 

‍

By Amanda Wright

‍
In a historic swing, the Liberal National Party (LNP) has won the seat of Mackay, a long-held Labor stronghold, with former police officer Nigel Dalton capturing the seat through a grassroots campaign focused on tackling youth crime and supporting community safety. Dalton expressed gratitude, saying, “The community chose change, and I’m here to deliver it.”
Amanda Camm retained her seat in Whitsunday, celebrating the strengthened LNP presence in the region, which she believes will amplify regional voices in parliament. “We’re entering government with a clear mandate for regional Queensland,” she said.
Dalton expressed pride in the diversity of the newly elected LNP team across Queensland, describing them as “community champions” representing various professions, including police officers, electricians, and teachers—all dedicated to standing up for the needs and future of the state’s regions.
Meanwhile, at the time this publication went to print, the contest in Mirani remains tight between the LNP’s Glen Kelly and incumbent Stephen Andrew of the Katter Party, demonstrating the competitiveness of this election year and the community’s desire for change.

A change in swing across regional Queensland has marked a historic LNP landslide, with the LNP winning the local seats of Mackay and Whitsunday, while Mirani is a close contest. Photo supplied

‍

LNP Claims Victory in Queensland State Election: A Shift in Power for Regional Seats

In a decisive turn of events, the Liberal National Party (LNP) has claimed victory in the Queensland state election, securing local seats in Mackay, Whitsunday, and Burdekin, with the race in Mirani still too close to call as votes continue to be counted. The election results reflect a clear mandate from regional Queenslanders prioritising law and order, amid growing dissatisfaction with the previous government's handling of crime.
LNP leader David Crisafulli announced the party's victory late Saturday night, marking only the second instance since the merger of the Nationals and Liberals in 2008 that the LNP has formed government in Queensland. The results indicate a notable shift in political dynamics, particularly outside Brisbane, where the LNP secured 11 electorates in regional centres, needing just 12 for a majority. Several electorates experienced double-digit swings towards the LNP, highlighting a palpable desire for change among voters.
One of Labor's most significant losses was in Mackay, a seat it had held for over a century. Former police officer Nigel Dalton, who retired this year, claimed the electorate for the LNP with an impressive 17% swing. Dalton’s victory reflects a broader trend of police officers being elected to the LNP in regional Queensland, driven by a campaign focused on youth crime and public safety.
The LNP's gains extended to Townsville, where electrician Adam Baillie defeated former resources minister Scott Stewart. Other notable victories included LNP candidate Natalie Marr, who unseated Aaron Harper in Thuringowa.
Additionally, the LNP secured the coastal seat of Hervey Bay, where David Lee defeated Labor's Adrian Tantari. Crisafulli himself garnered over 70% of the vote in his blue-ribbon electorate of Broadwater, while former housing minister Meaghan Scanlon now faces a formidable challenge against LNP candidate Bianca Stone in the central Gold Coast seat of Gaven.

Dalton Wins Mackay, Camm Retains Whitsunday As Regional Queensland Rallies Behind The LNP
In a historic shift, former police officer Nigel Dalton has claimed the seat of Mackay for the Liberal National Party, ending over a century of Labor control in the electorate. Dalton’s win comes as Amanda Camm also retains her seat in Whitsunday, marking a significant victory for the LNP in North Queensland. The close contest in nearby Mirani, where LNP candidate Glen Kelly is challenging Stephen Andrew of the Katter Party, reflects the intensity of this election cycle and the drive for change in the region.
Dalton’s victory highlights his commitment to addressing pressing local issues, notably youth crime and victim support, which he emphasised throughout his grassroots campaign. He expressed deep gratitude for the community’s faith in his vision:
“I’m incredibly thankful to the people of Mackay for this opportunity. For a town with such a strong Labor history, it’s remarkable to see this shift. The community chose change, and I’m here to deliver it.”
Dalton, who retired from a long career in law enforcement earlier this year, said he’s ready to bring his expertise to his new role as MP.
“With my background as a police officer, I can handle all aspects of the job,” he noted. “But listening to people is something I’ve done all my life, and now I want to make sure their concerns translate into real change.”
He spoke passionately about the need for better victim support, saying, “Too often, victims of crime are overlooked. They need to be heard, supported—whether it’s through counselling or compensation.
“Victims often hold key insights, and their voices should help shape how we move forward.”
One of Dalton’s career passions has been promoting community-based safety initiatives, such as Neighbourhood Watch.
“Community is about looking after each other,” he said. “Checking in with neighbours, knowing who’s around—it’s these small steps that keep our streets safer.”
Dalton celebrated his victory modestly, reflecting his community-oriented style.
“All I wanted was a strong coffee,” he said, smiling. “A volunteer brought me a long black—it was the best coffee of my life. My daughter was visiting for the election, so it was wonderful to just slow down and spend time with family.”
Amanda Camm, who has held the seat of Whitsunday since 2020, expressed her excitement at having fellow LNP representation in nearby Mackay. Reflecting on her early years in office, Camm said, “Four years ago, I was the only LNP member elected locally, which felt daunting and isolating. Now, having Nigel here in Mackay and a close race in Mirani, the situation has completely changed. We’re entering government with a clear mandate and a united force for regional Queensland.”
Camm emphasised the importance of grassroots campaigning, crediting it with helping her team understand the issues that matter most to their constituents.
“Listening to real concerns in our communities has been essential. Those are the issues we’re taking to government,” she said.
“With this cohesion across our region, our voices will be stronger than ever.”
Looking forward, Camm said she’s focused on delivering much-needed infrastructure projects, including vital road improvements and a comprehensive review of local healthcare.
“Delivering on roading projects is a massive priority,” she stated.
“The Bruce Highway runs through all our electorates, and it’s critical to our communities. We need to make sure frontline workers are supported, and that healthcare planning is sustainable. Recent issues, like the temporary closure of the cardiac unit and the hospital’s helicopter landing debacle, are stark reminders that we need better foresight and planning in our health system.”
Camm believes the LNP is ready to govern and credits David Crisafulli’s leadership in setting a decisive tone.
“In just his first days as Premier, David has demonstrated a genuine concern for public services, acknowledging past missteps to ensure they aren’t repeated. That’s what gives people confidence that the LNP will move Queensland forward,” she said.
“We are ready, and we mean business.”
Dalton is excited by the diversity of the newly elected LNP representatives.
“It’s a unique group,” he said.
“We have people from all walks of life—police officers, electricians, teachers.
“These are community champions in their own right, and now they’re standing up for our regions and for Queensland.
“To my campaign team and volunteers, thank you does not seem to cover my appreciation to you.
“To the public of Mackay - I am honoured that you put your faith and trust in me to be your first ever LNP representative, and I ask you to come on this journey with me.
“Together we can ensure that our community is safe and that our community can thrive.
“I am so excited to be representing you.”

Nigel Dalton and Amanda Camm with Tegan Parnicott (centre) at the Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce B2B event on Tuesday October 29
Glen Kelly and Nigel Dalton with Senator Matt Canavan during campaigning
Nigel Dalton listening to locals during his campaign

‍

On election night, as results poured in and history was being made, some Queenslanders were glued to their screens, caught between the thrill of politics and the comfort of home.  I was trackside in Townsville at the velodrome, with one eye on my husband competing and the other trying to wrangle a very active toddler, all while refreshing my phone screen to watch the vote tally tick along.
Geoff from the Chamber of Commerce let it slip at the B2B coffee event on Tuesday that he was riveted to the election coverage, wine and cheese in hand.
The results in Mackay mark a monumental shift, as Nigel Dalton’s victory closes over a century of Labor representation. But Mackay isn’t alone—the wave of change was felt across Queensland, with voters signalling strong support for the Liberal National Party. Now, it’s the LNP’s time to shine, and many of us look forward to seeing the results of their campaign promises delivered in real action.
With federal elections on the horizon, Labor may well be feeling the pressure after witnessing the swing across Queensland. The coming months in politics promise to be just as engaging, and we’ll be here to follow every development closely.
I would like to extend my congratulations to all the candidates who poured their time, energy, and resources into this year’s state election campaigns. Running for office requires a major commitment, both personally and financially, and it’s a true testament to their passion for shaping the future of our communities.
‍

Amanda

‍

A leisurely outing to Bucasia turned into an unforgettable experience for a local couple last week when they found themselves stranded by a flat battery after enjoying the shoreline at Shoal Point.

After picking up some items they had ordered online, the pair planned a quiet moment by the sea before returning home. However, their plans were disrupted when their car refused to start.

The husband, suspecting a dead battery, began seeking help from passing drivers. Although several people stopped, no one had a jump starter on hand, leaving the couple uncertain of how they’d get home. Calling a friend was an option, but with the nearest friend an hour away, they felt they were in a challenging situation.

Determined to find a solution, the husband walked toward a nearby intersection, hoping for assistance. That’s when Calen stepped in to save the day. When he realised, he didn’t have his jump starter with him, Calen drove all the way home and returned within minutes, bringing the equipment needed to revive the couple’s car.

In minutes, their car was back up and running, and the grateful couple couldn’t thank Calen enough. His generosity and willingness to go the extra mile turned a potential ordeal into a moment of gratitude.

Reflecting on the incident, the couple shared their appreciation to a community Facebook page: “We were so relieved and grateful for his kindness. He didn't even hesitate to help us. We learned from here and we win a friend. We can't thank you enough Calen. God bless you more!”

‍

Fatal Collision With A Cow Ends The Life Of A 27-Year-Old Father-To-Be

Jofarn Tapim, a 27-year-old father-to-be from Sarina, sadly lost his life on the morning of October 27 following a collision between his motorcycle and a cow in Glenella.

Police responded to reports shortly before 2am of a motorcycle collision with a cow on Sugarshed Road near Glenella Connection Road in Glenella.  

He was rushed to Mackay Base Hospital in critical condition but sadly passed away shortly after.

Preliminary investigations suggest that the motorcycle was attempting to overtake another vehicle when it collided with the cow in the oncoming lane.  

The Forensic Crash Unit is currently looking into the details surrounding the incident.

Jofarn’s family have started a GoFundMe page to help with funeral service costs. A friend posted on the page saying that Jofarn had been riding home from a friend's place when the tragic accident occurred.

Earlier that day, members of the public had reported seeing unfenced livestock roaming the road and had posted to warn others on Facebook community pages. It has led to a debate on whether there needs to be more accountability placed on the owners of livestock who fail to keep animals sufficiently contained in a paddock.

46-Year-Old Motorcyclist Rear-Ended By Truck On Peak Downs Highway
 
A 46-year-old motorcyclist has lost his life following a collision with a truck on the Peak Downs Highway in Strathfield, just inland from Mackay, on October 28.  
 
The crash occurred around 8.30am, when a white side-tipping truck turning onto the highway rear-ended the motorcyclist.
 
Despite efforts from Emergency services, the motorcyclist was pronounced deceased at the scene.  
 
The truck driver, who was not physically injured, remained on site following the incident.
 
Police are appealing for anyone who has information or dashcam footage that can assist investigations, to contact police.
 
The Queensland Police Forensic Crash Unit has launched an investigation into the crash and is actively seeking information from the public.

Two Truck Drivers Killed In Bloomsbury Head-On Collision

On October 28, two truck drivers, aged 38 and 59, were killed when their cane trucks collided head-on on private property near the Bruce Highway in Bloomsbury. Both men died at the scene.

These tragic incidents have led to four lives lost over just three days in the Mackay region.

‍

Jofarn Tapim, a 27-year-old from Sarina, tragically lost his life on October 27 after his motorcycle collided with a cow in Glenella. Tapim and his partner, Phoebe, were expecting their first child. Photo supplied

‍

The Mackay Hospital Foundation’s recent Giving Day raised a remarkable $146,079, thanks to generous community support and the vital contributions of Matched Donors.
Held on Friday, the 12-hour fundraiser saw donations double in impact thanks to matched contributions from local supporters including Abbot Point Operations, Anglo American, Isaac Regional Council, the Mining and Energy Unions (Goonyella Riverside, Grosvenor, Moranbah North, and Peak Downs), Pembroke Olive Downs, and Whitsunday Regional Council.
Mackay Hospital Foundation General Manager, Kristi Algate, expressed her gratitude, noting the funds would make a meaningful difference across the Mackay, Isaac, and Whitsunday regions.
“Giving Day is one of our most successful fundraising avenues, allowing us to keep more people close to home for their medical care,” she said. "Thanks to the generosity of our community, we continue to fund essential medical equipment, projects, and training that benefit our hospitals and health services.”
The Foundation’s ambassadors this year were representatives from within Mackay Hospital and Health Service departments that have directly benefited from previous funding. Last year alone, the Foundation supported hospitals in the region with $558,734 worth of equipment, projects, and professional development.
The Gardian team played a crucial role in the success of Giving Day, dedicating their time and energy to manning the phones throughout the day. Staff reached out across the community, connecting with local supporters and encouraging pledges over the phone. Their efforts not only boosted donations but also helped rally community spirit, reinforcing how much local involvement means in supporting our hospitals.
Ms. Algate highlighted the commitment from the community and matched donors: “Every dollar truly counts toward creating a health service that serves our community well. With your support, we can continue to improve local care, reducing the need for patients to travel far from family networks.”
The success of this year’s Giving Day strengthens the Foundation's mission, ensuring local hospitals receive ongoing support to meet the healthcare needs of the Mackay, Isaac, and Whitsunday regions.

‍

Photo credit: Coffee and Hops

‍

Approximately 100 locals used their resilient voices on the streets of Mackay last Friday, in an attempt to present a battle cry for the long line of women and children who have been impacted by violence.

As the crowd cheered “What do we want, safe streets, when do we want it, now,” the sound of the drums echoed in the hearts of those present – led by Rhythm Business.

Held on the last Friday of October during Sexual Violence Awareness Month, this annual gathering is a reminder of not only the experiences, but also the hope and freedom that comes from speaking out and uplifting others in the community.

The march originated back in the 1970s in England, following a series of murders of women on the streets of Leeds. In response, women were advised to stay indoors at night for their safety. This prompted the start of the March, which soon gained traction worldwide.

This year, on October 25, the Zonta Club of Mackay, in partnership with The Neighbourhood Hub and the Domestic Violence Resource Centre, hosted the event at the Bluewater Quay.

Families, friends, and neighbours assembled at 6pm to march in hope of a future where every woman is able to walk freely, without fear, under the stars.

The event concluded with a warm community gathering and a free sausage sizzle, supplied from the Walkerston Rotary Club and The Services Union.

Fiona Koutlis, President of the Zonta Club of Mackay said, “Safe streets were relevant in the 1970’s for women. It is more relevant today…every man, woman and child has the right to be out in public spaces and be safe, and that is what the march brings to public attention.
 
“Zonta Club of Mackay was pleased with the community response to the march, approximately 100 people were in attendance, we’d love to build on that for next year.”

Next year’s march will be held on Friday 24th October

‍

locals gathered at the Blue Water Quay last Friday in a battle cry for change, in hopes of a violent-free future for women and children. Photo source: Zonta Club of Mackay Inc and The Neighbourhood Hub (Facebook)

‍

The calendar may have only just turned over to November, but Mackay Regional Council staff will begin decking the region’s streets with Christmas cheer this week.
From Saturday, November 2, Christmas decorations will start popping up at various locations across the region and the installations will continue each weekend until the end of November.

The long lead time is necessary to ensure the decorations are in place for the festive season and so that work can be done at times that won’t inconvenience the public.

This year, the Mackay City Centre is also set to feature a brand-new set of Christmas decorations.

The decorations will be installed mostly on weekends, with early morning work scheduled to minimise any public disruption. Motorists are urged to take extra care on the roads, as staff will be working near traffic during these times.

The installations are scheduled to take place on the following dates, weather permitting:
   • November 2 – Sarina tree, banners and pole units.
   • November 3 – Evans Avenue banners and pole units and Sarina tree.
   • November 9 – Calen tree.
   • November 10 – Mackay banners and pole units.
   • November 16 – Bluewater Quay tree and garland.
   • November 17 – City Centre banners and pole units and Old Bank balcony tree.
   • November 20-21 – City Centre banners and decorations.
   • November 23 – Walkerston tree, banners and pole units and Marian banners and pole units.
   • November 24 – Mirani tree, banners and pole units.

‍

Fitzgerald State School has captured a major accolade on the national stage, receiving an award for storytelling excellence and creativity in the performing arts at the 2024 National Wakakirri Story-Dance Festival.
Their performance, Salt meets Sand, stood out for its thoughtful portrayal of unity, culture, and respect, winning acclaim among 180 participating schools from across Australia. The Wakakirri Story-Dance Festival, Australia’s largest performing arts event for schools, embraces the ethos that “great stories inspire change,” encouraging students to share stories that embody their thoughts, ideas, and hopes for the future.
Wakakirri Festival Director Adam Loxley expressed his admiration for the students’ effort and creativity.
"The standard this year was exceptional, so Fitzgerald State School should be very proud of their award,” Mr Loxley said.
“This acknowledgment reflects the high quality and creativity that Fitzgerald State School brought to their participation in the Wakakirri festival.”
With a powerful theme, Salt meets Sand conveys the connection of two cultures uniting over their respect for land, sea, and sky, inviting audiences to celebrate diversity and shared spaces. It tells the story of forming a community where everyone finds belonging, emphasising both unity and respect.
Wakakirri Ambassador Samuel McKeown described it as “A performance that felt authentic in its storytelling, dancing, and costuming, beautifully presented to tell the heartfelt story of coming together.”
Sam Scott-Girgenti, Fitzgerald State School’s performance coordinator, celebrated the achievement.
“We are so excited to win a National Award! Fitzgerald has been participating in Wakakirri for over 20 years and it’s such a great experience for the students.
“We had the privilege of working and collaborating with Torres Strait Islander Cultural Advisor and Choreographer Patrick Thaiday (First Nations Coordinator, PCYC Queensland) and his family, who assisted in consultations with First Nations Traditional Land owners to present our story of belonging.”
The Wakakirri Story-Dance Festival is a national program that aims to foster student engagement and wellbeing through the performing arts. Through live performances in theaters nationwide, and even via Wakakirri Video for schools in more remote areas, schools across Australia bring their stories to life.
Wakakirri’s partners, including Greenfleet, Kids Helpline, Planet Ark, and Reconciliation Australia, support its mission to make meaningful connections through the arts.

‍

Fitzgerald State School students bring Salt Meets Sand to life, earning a National Wakakirri Award for their moving celebration of cultural unity. Photos supplied

‍

Oh Deere Farmstay, a family-run agricultural retreat owned by Dale and Karinda Anderson, stood out at the recent Mackay Isaac Tourism (MIT) Awards Gala, clinching multiple awards that reflect its popularity and dedication to agri-tourism.
The farmstay took home the Outstanding Contribution by an Individual award for Karinda, as well as two People’s Choice Awards for Favourite Accommodation Provider and Favourite Operator or Experience Provider. These wins highlight the deep connection Oh Deere has built with its guests and community.
Oh Deere Farmstay’s awards haul also included gold for Unique Accommodation and silver for Tour & Transport Operators, making it five wins in total at the MIT Tourism Awards.
For Karinda, who has worked tirelessly to share the importance of farming, this recognition feels especially rewarding.
“It’s a huge step forward from last year, where we came away with a silver. To take out a gold and two people’s choice awards is absolutely incredible,” she said.
Set on 400 acres of working cane fields, Oh Deere offers guests a unique blend of rustic charm and agricultural insight. Accommodation options range from grassy sites for tents and caravans to cozy, farm-style amenities like a communal kitchen and fire pit, creating what Karinda calls a “home away from home” for returning guests.
The Sugar Farm Tours are another major draw, offering visitors a real taste of farming life.
“We have endless stories that capture what it means to be cane farmers,” Karinda shared.
“It’s about our highs, our lows, and our life on the land. I love seeing the excitement in a child’s face when they experience the farm.”
The tour includes a visit to “The Love Shack,” a John Deere Museum filled with vintage memorabilia, a nod to the farm's namesake.
As Karinda explains, “Farming isn’t just about farming. It’s about helping others understand where their food comes from and the work that goes into it.
“My father-in-law used to say, ‘Until we run the cities out of food and water, they’ll never understand what it takes, because farmers will work to feed the nation.’”
With plans to expand community outreach, Karinda hopes to continue bridging the gap between urban and rural life.
“I’d love to work with others in agri-tourism. Our kids don’t know where sugar or milk comes from beyond the supermarket,” she said.
For Oh Deere, this year’s MIT wins celebrate that mission and the farm’s growing impact on the Mackay Isaac tourism landscape.

‍

The Oh Deere Farmstay team celebrates their five MIT Tourism Awards wins, including gold for Unique Accommodation and the People’s Choice Award for Favourite Experience Provider. Photo credit: Mackay Isaac Tourism

People of all ages enjoy the farm tour activities and serenity at Oh Deere

‍