Social bowls enthusiasts made the most of mixed weather conditions last week, with several solid performances on the green and the long-anticipated return of Barefoot Bowls.

On Wednesday, ten players took part in social games, with Trevor Parsons and Philip Brown claiming a convincing 28–11 win over Alen Sanderson and Barry Zillmann. Meanwhile, the trio of Aurora, Bruce Uhe, and Heather Brown secured a 24–15 victory over Arthur Griffith, John Anderson, and Sandy Daffara.

Friday night saw the successful launch of the club’s first Barefoot Bowls evening for the year, following previous cancellations due to rain. The turnout was strong, and organisers extended their thanks to everyone who helped bring the night together.

Saturday’s social bowls doubled as a chance for selectors to assess players keen to represent the club in upcoming pennants competitions. While rain disrupted some of the games, it didn’t dampen the enthusiasm of those hoping to make the team.

Unfortunately, Sunday’s bowls had to be called off after a good dose of rain soaked Proserpine.

Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Bowls Club

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All five Sea Eagles AFL teams braved the wet and windy conditions for the home crowd on the weekend with some great results. Lots of supporters were out and about also making the most of having footy back at The Nest, enjoying the new rendition of the Sea Eagles Club song multiple times with wins throughout the day.

Sea Eagles Senior Men clashed with Mackay City Hawks using the wind to their advantage in the first quarter, able to hold that lead for the remainder of the game running out winners 57 - 32.

Sea Eagles Senior Women were victorious in the rematch with Moranbah, running hard in the second quarter to put goals on the board eventually taking the win 32 - 8.

Moranbah came out firing against Sea Eagles Under 17s and although Sea Eagles were able to improve on last week's performance and stay in reach, the final term saw Moranbah pull away to post a 37 point win.

Sea Eagles Under 15s were eager to take on Moranbah again after a close match last week, however Moranbah took off in the first quarter and Sea Eagles were unable to make it back with 23 - 49 the final score.

Under 13s Sea Eagles went out early in the ever changing conditions to beat Moranbah Bulldogs for the second week running, in what ended as a close match 20 - 16 after Bulldogs used the wind in the final term to make it interesting.

This coming week four teams head to Mackay with U13s and U15s headed Mackay Magpies and Senior Men and Women at Eastern Swans.

Saturday 10th May
8:00am U13 Sea Eagles vs Mackay Magpies (Magpies)
9:15am U15 Sea Eagles vs Mackay Magpies (Magpies)
1:50pm Senior Women vs Eastern Swans (Rogers Oval)
3:20pm Sea Eagles Senior Men vs Eastern Swans (Rogers Oval)

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Sea Eagles

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May

8 Proserpine Rock Wallaby Festival 8th – 11th | Exhibition Opening Night 6:30pm

9 Mamma Mia, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

10 Art in the Park, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 9:00am - varied class start times. Bookings required for class participation, $25pp. Exhibition free.

10 Car Boot Sale, Airlie Beach Bowls Club, 9:00am-3:00pm

11 Mother’s Day

11 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

11 Handmade & Homecrafted Markets, Ken McPherson Park / P.E.C

11 Mother’s Day Morning Tea, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 9:30am, $35pp, Bookings Required

12 Spellbound, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7:00pm

13 Sailability, Downstairs at the Whitsunday Sailing Club, Volunteers 8:00am-2:00pm & Sailors/Carers 9:00am-1:00pm, Bookings Required

13 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

14 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

14 The Whitsundays 2025 Whale Season Information Night, Whitsunday Sailing Club, 6.30pm

16 Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea, Club Whitsunday, 9:30am-11:00am, $25pp Bookings Required, Group Bookings Welcome.

17 Whitsunday Multicultural Festival, Bowen Soundshell Santa Barbara Parade, 10:00am-2:00pm

17 Whitsunday Brahmans Family Field Day, Les Stagg Oval in Proserpine, 3:00pm-7:00pm

18 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

18 Distinguished Gentleman's Ride, various location, 8:00am-11:00am, Registration Required to Participate

20 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

25 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

26 National Sorry Day

27 National Reconciliation Week, May 27th – June 3rd

27 Sailability, Downstairs at the Whitsunday Sailing Club, Volunteers 8:00am-2:00pm & Sailors/Carers 9:00am-1:00pm, Bookings Required

27 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

28 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

31 Whitsunday Cruisin’ Car Club SHOW & Shine, LOCATION, 8:00am-11:30am

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Friday 9th

• The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
• Grand View Hotel: Julias Dator (from 8pm)

Saturday 10th May

• The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Shania Twain Tribute (2pm – 5.30pm)
• The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
• Grand View Hotel: 80s to the MAX (from 8pm)
• Coral Sea Pavillion: (Live Music & DJ Session 1pm – 6pm)

Sunday 11th May (MOTHER’S DAY)

• The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Shania Twain Tribute (2pm – 5.30pm)
• The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
• Grand View Hotel: Julias Dator (4pm – 8pm)
• Coral Sea Pavillion: Chill Acoustic Session (2pm – 6pm)

Thursday 15th May

• The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Chris Booroff (6.30pm – 9.30pm)

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A significant fire broke out at a Hostel in Bowen last Wednesday morning 30th April, and sadly a fatality has been confirmed.

At approximately 3:30am a large-scale response was initiated by emergency services after police were alerted to a building fully engulfed in flames on Gordon Street, following reports from concerned locals.

Fire crews from the local station were swiftly deployed, with three teams arriving on scene around 3:40am. 

The fire, located near the intersection of Brisbane Street and Herbert Street, was confirmed as a structural fire. Emergency personnel initiated both external and internal firefighting operations in an effort to control the blaze.

By 4:45am, the fire had been largely extinguished, though crews remained on site to suppress any remaining hotspots and prevent the fire from spreading to adjacent buildings. 

Authorities confirmed that no other structures in the vicinity were impacted.

While initial reports indicated that all occupants were evacuated safely, at 8:04pm Wednesday 30 April, the Queensland Police Service announced that a fatality occurred.

Further searches of the property located a body and forensic examination is underway to identify the deceased.

Anyone who may have witnessed anything, or has dashcam or CCTV from the area, is urged to contact investigators.

Police investigations are still ongoing at the time of print. (Wednesday 7th May)

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Local author and writers’ mentor Richard Evans is set to captivate readers with his latest political thriller, 'Horrible People', the first in the Jack Hudson MP series. Drawing on his experience as a former federal politician and national industry leader, Evans brings a unique and authentic perspective to political storytelling.

Evans believes apathy towards politics often breeds scepticism and discontent. 'Horrible People' explores this idea through a compelling narrative filled with page-turning plots and memorable characters, offering a glimpse into the murky waters of political life.

The book launched in Mackay at the Dudley Denny City Library, coinciding with Evans’ creative writing course on federal election day — is a fitting blend of literature and civic engagement that reflects his approach to storytelling.

When asked if 'Horrible People' is a memoir, Evans grinned and said, "You may say that, but I could never confirm such a proposition." He added, "While the novel draws from my lived political experiences and the fascinating individuals I’ve encountered, it is a work of fiction designed to entertain and provoke thought."

Regarded as a master of the political thriller genre in Australia, Evans has penned nine novels that captivate and challenge readers. His work doesn't just thrill — it reflects on the political landscape with insight and wit.

'Horrible People' is now available. Ask for a copy at your local bookstore, library, or preferred online retailer.

Take a gripping journey into the dark arts of politics and discover how fiction can reflect the truth.

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'Horrible People' by Richard Evans is available now. Photo supplied

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Following a successful 2024 event, the Whitsundays Writers Festival is thrilled to announce its 2025 From the Heart Keynote speaker—Dr Anita Heiss. An award-winning author of 25 books, Dr Heiss is a proud Wiradyuri woman, Indigenous Literacy Foundation Ambassador, and Professor of Communications at the University of Queensland.

Her novels include Manhattan Dreaming, Tiddas, and Barbed Wire and Cherry Blossoms, with Bila Yarrudhanggalangdhuray winning the 2022 NSW Premier’s Literary Prize for Indigenous Writing.

Festival Chair Karen Jacobsen expressed excitement, saying, "It's rare for regional Queenslanders to have the opportunity to meet renowned national and international writers. This is an important event for the Whitsundays and a golden opportunity for readers and writers to visit the heart of the Great Barrier Reef at one of the most ideal times of year.”

Running from September 12–14, 2025, the festival will also feature the prestigious Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards, recognising outstanding unpublished manuscripts and short stories. Supported by the Roderick Centre for Australian Literature at James Cook University, the Best Unpublished Manuscript prize includes $2500.

Writers of all levels, across Australia, are encouraged to submit entries by July 14, 2025. Submission details and entry guidelines are available on the festival’s website.

“This event will bring together creative minds in the picturesque setting of the Whitsundays. What better place to immerse yourself in the brilliance of Australian literature?” remarked Karen. “I strongly advise securing your place at the festival and booking accommodation early to fully enjoy the wonders of the Whitsundays while indulging in the myriad of events the festival has to offer.”

Visit www.whitsundayswriters.com for more information, early bird tickets, and updates on speakers and events.

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Dr Anita Heiss will be a Keynote Speaker at this years Whitsunday Writers Festival. Photo supplied

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The countdown has begun! Gilmour Space Technologies is gearing up for its next big launch from Bowen, with a launch window set to open 'no earlier than' May 15.

The maiden flight of Eris will be the first Australian-designed and built rocked aiming for orbit.

Gilmour Space has received airspace management approval from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority - CASA.

Gilmour Space made history in March last year when its Bowen spaceport was granted the first orbital launch facility licence in Australia, and when it secured the country's first Australian Launch Permit for Eris TestFlight 1 in November.

Now, with airspace arrangements finalised and mandatory notice given to the Australian Space Agency, the company is preparing for liftoff.

Co-founder and CEO of Gilmour Space Adam Gilmour said this will be the first attempt of an Australian rocket to reach orbit from Australian soil.

With the ‘No Earlier Than’ date fast approaching he also highlighted some points of note before the launch.

• It’s important to understand that delays or 'scrubs' are a normal part of rocket launches, often caused by weather or technical issues, and can last from hours to weeks. "Safety is always the top priority. We'll only launch when we're ready, and when conditions are appropriate," he said.

• The first launch is always the toughest, reaching orbit is complex, and setbacks are common. Each moment of flight provides crucial data to improve future rocket performance.

• Launching Australian-made rockets from home soil boosts high-tech jobs, security, economic growth, and our technological independence.

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The family business behind a proposal for an Australian-first, immersive dinosaur experience and mini-golf course on the main street of Airlie Beach, has come forward to address a growing number of community concerns around the look and theme of the project.  

A representative for ‘Jurassic Falls Pty Ltd’, said contrary to some opinions expressed on local social media sites, this was not about bringing “tacky, fake fibreglass dinosaurs” to town.  

“Our Australian-themed dinosaurs are hyper-realistic animatronic models incorporating the latest in AI technology – the first of their kind in Australia,” the spokesperson said.  

“With their simulation of full-range, smooth, dynamic movement, they will look, feel and move like the real thing, offering ‘next level’ interaction with patrons and real ‘wow factor’,” they said.  

With much of the current community commentary based on images of the proposed entrance structure shared from the online Development Application, the proponent’s spokesperson was keen to correct any public perception that this was exactly what would be built.  

“Those images are simply an ‘architectural visualisation collage’ and not an accurate rendering of the finished product,” they explained.  

“The actual finish will be as hyper-realistic as the dinosaurs themselves, including high quality rock that’s indistinguishable from fresh rock carved from the ground, and a real waterfall feature, alluding to both place (the adjacent Airlie Creek) and purpose (the ‘Jurassic Falls’ venue name).

“Overall, our vision for the project is to maintain the pre-existing character of the site by preserving the native trees.

“In doing this we not only minimise the impact on the street façade but also ‘set the scene’, using elements of an existing ‘forest’ to create a ‘natural habitat’ for our dinosaurs, transporting visitors to a day gone by when these magnificent creatures roamed the earth – and yes, even in Airlie Beach!”

Addressing criticisms that dinosaurs were not an appropriate attraction for the town at the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, the proponent’s representative said Jurassic Falls’ intention was to add to the diversity of the region rather than compete with it.  

“There are already other reef-themed proposals for Airlie Beach, as well as plenty of on-water tours through which tourists can experience the actual Whitsundays’ marine life – so why would we compete with existing local businesses or government for this space?” they said.  

“In contrast, dinosaurs are one of the most highly engaging and mesmerising creatures to have walked the earth, piquing the interest of children in particular, world-wide.  

“What we are proposing would give local and visiting families a very different, non-weather-dependent activity, hopefully also resulting in increased length of visitor stays and exponential economic benefit to Airlie Beach.”

Noting that a petition has now been launched against the project, potentially denying the experience to both visiting and local kids, a spokesperson for Wynne Planning and Development Pty Ltd, the company which has lodged the application, said it was important people judged it based on facts.

“Statements have been made in the online petition and comments that are incorrect, including around building heights,” the Wynne Planning and Development representative said.  

“The proposed roof heights are 8.5-metres street-facing (with a 4-metre setback from the street boundary and minimalist stone entry at single storey height), and 8.9-metres to the rear (with a 5-metre setback to the mini-golf roof) – not 15 metres as originally stated in the petition and noting that the proposed roof was only incorporated to create an all-weather accessible facility.  

“Those who are opposing this application should be aware that there are a number of other fully compliant options available to the landowner of this site that would be far more disruptive and less aesthetically pleasing for the Main Street.  

“Under the Planning Scheme, the landowner has the right to remove the trees and erect an 8.5-metre-high building directly on the boundary, stepping back 3 metres to create a podium level and continuing to construct up to 14 metres.  

“This would not only comply with regulations but requires no public consultation, therefore the current proposal is actually one of the least intrusive options in terms of building bulk and removal of vegetation.”

Regarding the remaining issues cited such as registered construction values and resulting infrastructure payments, the Wynne Planning and Development representative said the application did not include any statements or calculations about construction costs.

“The public statements referring to the payment of $150,000 have been taken from the application form, which seeks a declaration on whether ‘Qleave’ has been paid,” they said.

“This payment is required for construction costs over $150,000 and is to be declared at the time of lodging applications for Operational or Building Works, not Material Change of Use.  

“The application has not sought to be exempt from paying the required infrastructure charges as calculated under the regulation and has therefore been assessed for compliancy on all counts.”

As for whether the attraction would be better off somewhere else, the Jurassic Falls spokesperson said while there might well be other locations around the Whitsundays where this type of experience would be welcomed “we don’t own those locations – we own this one”.  

“And for us, this is about the kids – we are a family-run business with the wellbeing of other families and the Whitsunday community at heart,” they said.  

Jurassic Falls is designed to be a fully engaging Australian dinosaur experience from the minute guests walk through the gate, where a 4.5-metre-high T-Rex leans down for a pat on the head.

High grass and plants provide glimpses of the 11 other dinosaurs ahead, leaving patrons curious about what’s around the next corner as they make their way along what at first appears to be a dirt path, but is in fact, a mini-golf course.  

Visitors can choose to play mini-golf or simply wander the course encountering dinosaurs like the 6-metre high, 16-metre long Australotitan, quietly ‘eating’ leaves from the canopy, swinging its head from tree to tree and lowering it close enough for people to touch.  

Incorporating an educational element, each dinosaur has its own digital display coupled with an interactive App, providing questions for the young palaeontologist to answer and a daily prize for the best listener.  

Once they’ve had their fill of dinosaurs, children can play in the Jurassic-age aquarium-themed games arcade at the rear, complete with the latest in virtual projector technology to create an immersive underwater simulation.  

Additional ‘after sunset’ experiences are also planned, including glow-in-the-dark dinosaurs, disco nights and other themed events.  

Members of the community who want Jurassic Falls to go ahead are invited to write to Whitsunday Regional Council, with whom the Development Application is lodged, and voice their approval.

“If those who support this stay silent, it’s a case of the ‘squeaky wheel’ winning by default,” the Jurassic Falls spokesperson said.

“We have 18 summers at best with our kids so let’s make at least one of those an experience to remember in Airlie Beach.”

Public submissions can be made to the assessment manager by emailing info@wrc.qld.gov.au or dropping a hard copy into a Council Customer Service Centre.  

Submissions close on May 14, 2025, and must include the application number 20241233 as well as the name, residential or business address and signature of the person making the submission.

Photo credits: iStock.com/Voren1 and iStock.com/Warpaintcobra

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OPINION PIECE

Australians are paying on average 32 per cent more for electricity than they were three years ago.

Every day, I listen to people in Dawson who tell me one of the biggest pains they feel is the price they now pay to keep the lights on and cool. When people turn on the aircon during a sweltering summer day, they know one flick of a switch is costing more than it should. Pensioners and those on lower incomes tell me they have to choose which appliances to do without.

Electricity pain in Dawson is real. The rising cost of electricity also impacts supply chains and storage of fresh produce.

Higher electricity prices mean we all pay more at the checkout. Power prices are skyrocketing, and with Labor’s green-only strategy, there’s no end in sight.

Labor’s electricity rebate, is not a fix. It’s not a plan. It’s not even a cheap Band-Aid.

Meanwhile, the Coalition has a positive plan to bring energy costs down long-term. Under a Dutton/Littleproud government, a balanced energy mix will deliver the long-term, sustained relief every Australian power user needs and deserves.

Peter Dutton recently announced in his budget reply speech a Coalition plan to open up more gas supply and get it to Aussie consumers fast, by the end of the year.

Long term, nuclear power plants built adjacent to existing coal-fired power stations, without the need for massive new transmission infrastructure, will deliver reliable base load power with zero emissions. The Coalition supports investment in renewables as part of the energy mix, too.

But a green-only strategy is not the solution, and new renewable projects should not come at the expense of valuable farmland or our pristine environments. Albanese and Climate Change Minister Chris Bowen tell us we all need to do our bit for the climate. But their green madness is costing the country, and it needs to stop.

Labor promised $275 lower electricity prices by 2025. Instead, in just three years, Australian households are paying over $1,000 more each year.

Labor isn’t making any promises on power prices this time because they know they have no answers. Worse still, they know their plan is taking Australia in the wrong direction, but they won’t admit it, forging ahead in the hope voters will accept their spin.

A Coalition government will put downward pressure on prices by opening up supply and delivering an energy mix suited to Australia’s needs.

We will take real action to drive power prices back down, so everyone can afford to keep the lights on and stay cool.

Andrew Willcox, Federal Member for Dawson

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The Northern Beaches community is being invited to have their say on the future of their region. With key topics like infrastructure, outdoor spaces, transport, and community events already sparking vibrant discussions, locals are making their voices heard.

Now, residents have the exciting opportunity to take it a step further and join focus groups to help shape the future of the Northern Beaches.

The Your Place, Your Plan – Northern Beaches Mackay Community Plan, is a partnership between the Northern Beaches Community Network and Greater Whitsunday Communities and so far, the response has been resounding with themes raised including:

• Community Connection & Events
• Parks, Nature, and Outdoor Spaces
• Transport Safety and Access
• Infrastructure
• Health Safety and Community Services
• Youth, Families & Inclusive Amenities
• Local Economy and Sustainability

GWC chief executive Carol Norris said the initiative was all about creating a shared vision for the future of the Northern Beaches.

“It’s so good to see residents having their say and letting us know what is important to them and their community,” Ms Norris said.

“No one knows their community as much as the people who live, work, play and raise families there, so that is exactly who we want to hear from.”

Northern Beaches Community Network founder, Rebecca Cooper said the plan gave the Northern Beaches – which spanned the areas of Shoal Point, to Bucasia, Eimeo, Blacks Beach, Sunset Bay, Rural View, Habana and Nindaroo – a chance to speak with one collective voice.

“It’s a way for the community to advocate for what’s needed and help ensure that future plans reflect the community’s voice,” Mrs Cooper said.

“Capturing the voices of the community, and making sure it's truly driven by their needs is how we ensure real, lasting impact across the region.

“To me, community is so powerful… it gives voice to what truly matters and drives meaningful change,” Ms Cooper added.

“It’s about putting the right things on the agenda, and implementing them now so we can all come together and shape the future we want.”

Ms Norris said during the past decade, the Northern Beaches region had experienced rapid growth and was now home to more than 20,000 residents; however, even with the new Northern Beaches Hub under development, despite this growth, services in the region remained limited.

“We’re excited to support a process that puts the vision for the future in the hands of the
community itself.

“Grassroots development like this is essential to building a strong, connected region.”

Anyone interested in contributing, participating, or staying informed can email admin@gwcommunities.org.au, or follow and engage with the Northern Beaches Community – My Community Facebook page.

“This is your place and your plan – and your voice matters,” Mrs Norris said.

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Northern Beaches residents are invited to join focus groups and help shape a community-led plan for the region’s future, with key themes including infrastructure, outdoor spaces, transport, and community connection. Photo source: Greater Whitsunday Communities

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At the peak of her life-threatening battle with a chronic auto immune disease, Andergrove woman Lisa Hodges lost the ability to walk and talk.

After becoming seriously ill in November 2023, she spent almost three months in hospital in intensive care and the infectious diseases ward battling autoimmune hepatitis and cirrhosis of the liver. Lisa then developed cryptococcal meningitis while on immunosuppressant drugs, a dangerous fungal infection of the tissue covering the brain and spinal cord.

While at the Townsville University Hospital, she endured 14 spinal taps on consecutive days to remove fluid from her brain.

“I lost a lot of my cognitive function and physical ability; I was so ill, I couldn’t do anything for myself,” Lisa said.

After five weeks in Townsville and another six weeks at Mackay Base Hospital, by February 2024 Lisa had recovered enough to transition to Community Health and Therapy Services (CHATS), located at Mackay Base Hospital, to start rehabilitation.

CHATS is a multidisciplinary team of allied health, medical and nursing professionals including physiotherapists, occupational therapists, social workers, speech pathologists, dietitians, psychologists and rehabilitation consultants and assistant staff.

Lisa started in the Transition Care Program (TCP) with CHATS upon discharge from hospital. One of her many goals was learning to walk again.

“I was at CHATS a minimum of twice a week to see the physio for an hour each
session,” Lisa said.

“I also saw the occupational therapists, a speech therapist, social worker, dieticians and had CHATS’ nursing support at home for assistance with showering and transport to and from the hospital.”

Lisa admits she was initially frustrated by her slow physical progress.

“I had open wounds that would not heal and I was confined to a wheelchair when I started at CHATS,” Lisa said.

“I eventually progressed from the wheelchair to a walker, then to a four-prong walking stick, then to a walking stick,” she said.

“This transition was over about six months until I could walk independently.”

Lisa said she was very grateful for the continual support, care and motivation of the CHATS team throughout her recuperation. Today, her liver condition is managed with regular medication and ongoing monitoring and she has even started driving short distances again.

She credits CHATS with helping her regain her dignity and independence after such a serious illness.

“I cannot speak highly enough for the support and the expertise of the staff at CHATS,” Lisa said.

“They have helped me through not only a very difficult physical journey, but supported me unconditionally with my emotional recovery.

“The amazing team has given me back my independence and confidence. I have lost considerable strength but can now get around independently again.

“Every person at CHATS has been amazing. From the administrative staff through to the hands-on practitioners, they have all been major contributor to where I am today.

“The environment creates a supportive ‘family’ that have helped me so much over the
past 18 months.”

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Andergrove woman Lisa Hodges credits Community Health and Therapy Services (CHATS), located at Mackay Base Hospital, with helping her regain her dignity and independence after serious illness. Photo credit: MHHS

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When Kathryn George, OAM, first walked into Mackay North State High School in 1979, she faced a musical mountain with nothing more than three broken xylophones and a piano badly in need of a tune. Fast-forward nearly five decades, and Kathryn now stands at the helm of a $200,000 music department, leading one of Australia’s most celebrated school marching bands.

Her determination to transform scarcity into success earned her an Order of Australia Medal in 2019, recognising her dedication to school music ensembles.

"When I first arrived at Mackay North SHS all those years ago, I looked around at the little I had to work with and decided to turn it into a top-class music facility," Kathryn says.

"The school started to raise money for equipment while I set about writing all the musical arrangements for the various band sections because we didn’t have any."

That grit soon paid off.

What started as a humble school band of 35 students in 1991 has grown to 130 strong in 2025, earning international acclaim.

"In 1991, we had 35 students in the band, and this year we have 130," she said.

A defining moment arose in 1995, when the band was the only Queensland state school group invited to the Brisbane Anzac Parade.

"Back then, our marching band students wore a red hat, a blue blouse and long white pants or skirts.

“Needless to say, of course, a black cloud overhead decided to rain…Not on the whole parade – just on our students.

“The spectators’ jaws dropped when the red dye from the hats started to run in rivulets down the students' uniforms, all the way to the white fabric. But our students continued marching and playing beautifully as if nothing had happened.

“I was so proud."

This year marks the band’s 31st Anzac Parade appearance. Ninety-two students will make the 16-hour bus ride to Brisbane, wearing their sharp black and electric blue uniforms with gold accents.

Global invitations followed, at the 2000 Sydney Olympics, the 2008 Beijing Olympics, the 2011 Shanghai Tourism Festival, and the 2015 American Independence Day Parade in Los Angeles.

"The 2-hour march was watched by eight million people live and by millions on television," Kathryn says.

"Then in 2015 we were invited to represent Australia in the American Independence Day Parade in Los Angeles, and while there, we also made a guest appearance at the Disneyland afternoon parade at Anaheim."

But if there’s one thing that remains over the years, it’s the joy she finds watching young musicians grow.

"It does wonders for their self-esteem, discipline and focus," she says.

"Even if my students do not go into music professionally, studying music enhances the learning process."

At nearly 70, Kathryn remains passionate about shaping young minds.

"There is always more that I can achieve," she says.

"I love teaching music. It’s not just what I do. It’s who I am."

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Kathryn George, OAM, transformed a struggling school music program into an internationally acclaimed marching band, inspiring generations of students along the way. Photo source: QLD Department of Education

Mackay North State High School Students ready to take part in the Brisbane City ANZAC Day March. Photo source: Mackay North State High School (Facebook)

Mackay North State High School taking part in the Brisbane City ANZAC Day March

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With lights flashing and wheels in motion, a new era of community policing has arrived on the streets of Mackay and the Whitsundays. The Mobile Police Beat has officially launched, providing a flexible, high-visibility police presence designed to engage with communities and enhance crime prevention efforts where they are needed most.

As part of the Queensland Police Service’s ‘Bring the Beat’ initiative, the program allows residents to request a Mobile Police Beat deployment to their local area by submitting a form through the district’s myPolice website. The initiative has already seen success in other regions across the state and is now bringing that same accessibility and responsiveness to the Mackay Whitsunday community.

District Officer Superintendent Dean Cavanagh said the initiative reflects the service’s commitment to enhancing community safety and fostering stronger connections between police and the public.

“The best part about the mobile police beat in Mackay now is that any member of the public can request it,” Superintendent Cavanagh said.

“The ‘Bring the Beat’ program provides greater access to the community, allowing police to be present in hotspots where they are able to respond swiftly where needed.

“The Mobile Police Beat will be able to provide instant access to police at large events and in high traffic areas where we can engage most with residents.”

The unit is equipped to handle all the same functions as a traditional police station, offering full-service capabilities on the go.

“Absolutely anything you're going to expect within a police station, you can do within the mobile police beat…we want people to treat this as a police station on wheels.

“Not only will this give the public greater access to police services when and where they are needed, but it will give the community the opportunity to discuss local crime issues, and learn about how they can enhance their own security.”

Community engagement has already proven strong.

“We've seen in some locations up to 500 members of the public come and engage with the mobile police beat, so we're very happy with the response so far,” Superintendent Cavanagh added.

“I would absolutely encourage any members of the public, when you see the police beat, please approach it, and have a conversation with the officers present.”

The initiative is not only about visibility, but rather a strategic asset to the region, says local highway patrol.

Sergeant Shane Edwards, Officer in Charge of Highway Patrol noted that, “It's a great resource for the district, so we can use it to go to areas where there's been identified problems, and have that extra policing presence there.”

The Mobile Police Beat aims to enhance community safety, visibility, and real-time policing where it’s needed most.

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The Queensland Police Service’s Mobile Police Beat has launched in Mackay and the Whitsundays, providing a flexible, high-visibility presence to engage communities and boost crime prevention. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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This week in Mackay has been rich with community spirit from recognising cultural champions and personal milestones to advancing infrastructure and reinforcing public safety.

Crossroad Arts Giving Day – A Showcase of Inclusion

It was such a privilege to attend Crossroad Arts’ Giving Day here in Mackay. The event was an uplifting reminder of the power of inclusive arts where creativity meets community. Crossroad Arts continues to lead the way in creating opportunities for people of all abilities to share their stories. Even better, any donations made until May 31st will be doubled, meaning your support can go twice as far.

Celebrating a Legend: Margaret Cunningham Turns 100

This week we also celebrated a truly special milestone, my mother-in-law and long-time swimming companion Margaret Cunningham turned 100 years old.

Margaret isn’t just a remarkable person, she’s a world-class athlete. Over the decades, she’s set numerous world records across multiple age categories in freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke and individual medley. At age 85, she broke world records in the 100m freestyle, 100m backstroke, and 200m individual medley. In her 90s, she continued setting records in the 50m breaststroke and 400m freestyle.

Margaret was inducted into the International Swimming Hall of Fame in 2016, one of the very few Australians to receive this honour. She’s competed internationally in five World Masters Games winning 12 Gold medals, consistently breaking age-group records and inspiring swimmers across the globe.

Over the weekend, her family, old friends and swimming colleagues gathered to celebrate not just a century of life, but a legacy built on discipline, joy, and always staying in her lane.

Superyachts Welcomed to Mackay’s Growing Marina Hub

I also had the chance to visit the Mackay Marina with General Manager Ben Anderson. Their focus right now is on attracting more superyachts, a move that gives those on board a chance to experience everything Mackay has to offer.

As an official port of entry to Australia, the marina boasts strong infrastructure, including high fuel delivery capacity, making it an ideal stopover for vessels travelling between iconic destinations like the Whitsundays. Mackay has also been identified as a great place for crew members to stop, relax, and even host visits from family while docked.

Back to School, Let’s Prioritise Road Safety

With students now returning to class, it’s crucial we all slow down and stay alert in school zones. Whether you’re doing the school drop-off or driving past during peak times, a moment’s care can prevent tragedy. Let’s work together to make school commutes safer for our children and give peace of mind to parents across Mackay.

E-Bike Safety Crackdown: Operation Wolfking Underway

In response to a rise in the illegal use of electric bikes and personal mobility devices (PMDs), police have launched Operation Wolfking across the Mackay Whitsunday District. So far this year, 18 street checks have been conducted, leading to 12 infringement notices for issues like unregistered or uninsured e-bikes, riding without helmets, and using PMDs on prohibited roads.

Six individuals aged between 13 and 16 have also been charged with a combined 24 offences. In one instance, a parent was fined more than $700 for allegedly allowing their underage son to ride a modified e-bike.

The operation also includes an educational push, with officers working to inform families and young people about the rules surrounding e-bike use and the risks of non-compliance. With holiday periods typically seeing a spike in PMD usage, the program is a timely reminder that road safety is everyone’s responsibility.

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