A time to celebrate and a time for action! November is National Rural Health Month and it’s time to spotlight rural communities and health care.
 
Throughout November, the National Rural Health Alliance is excited to share rural healthcare stories and highlight the success stories of rural healthcare champions. We will also draw attention to the myriad of issues faced by rural, regional and remote communities in Australia when trying to access health care.  
 
“We all know that Australia’s rural, regional and remote communities experience poorer health outcomes compared to their urban counterparts,” said the Alliance Chief Executive Susi Tegen.
 
“National Rural Health Month highlights health sector stakeholders who are working towards tangible and sustainable healthcare solutions for rural Australians.”
 
“On average, a person living in rural Australia receives $848 less in healthcare funding each year, which equates to a $6.55 billion underspend across the country. This is despite rural industries generating about 80 per cent of Australia’s exports and providing about 90 per cent of the fresh food in our markets,” she said.
 
Rural people experience a triple health disadvantage: poorer circumstances in terms of social determinants of health, a lack of service availability, and higher costs of access and delivery, all resulting in poor health outcomes.
 
“Rural communities are amazingly resilient and innovative in their solutions to overcome healthcare challenges. As such, National Rural Health Month is also a time to reflect on their achievements that help bring positive changes.
 
Keep your eye on the Alliance’s social media accounts and the hashtag #NationalRuralHealthMonth and #NRHM24 throughout November for day-to-day stories of rural Australians and their healthcare journeys.

The National Rural Health Alliance (the Alliance) comprises 53 national organisations committed to improving the health and wellbeing of the over 7 million people in rural and remote Australia. Our diverse membership includes representation from the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health sector, health professional organisations, health service providers, health educators and students.

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National Rural Health Alliance Chief Executive Susi Tegen

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Prepare to have some spooky fun as you enter the majestic haunted house this Saturday, November 9, located at 67 Peak Downs Highway, Ooralea.

If clowns give you nightmares, Jazz Party Hire, MAD Animal Addiction and Let’s Just Face It Entertainment have got you covered, with jumping castles, a petting-zoo and face painting for the whole family…as well as fairy floss, slushies and popcorn to satisfy your sweet tooth!

A sensory-friendly break with no lights or animatronics will take place from 5:30pm to 6pm for those who require a quiet space and all money raised at the event will go to a charitable cause.

This year, event organiser Rebecca Ryan chose Broken Ballerina as the fundraiser’s recipient.

“As a family, we always choose local charities,” said Rebecca, “Last year, we raised nearly $3,000 for Mackay Pet Rescue, and this year I just hope we’re able to help Broken Ballerina.”

Reflecting on the rising demand for support, she added, “Over the past year, I’ve seen a significant increase in people needing help from Broken Ballerina.”

Jules Thompson, founder of Broken Ballerina Inc said that “Funding like this enables us to continue our mission to help survivors of domestic violence in our community.

“We save lives and we change lives… and we do it all with the help from community donations, sponsorships, and fundraising events like this.”

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Get ready for a spooky family adventure this Saturday at the haunted house, 67 Peak Downs Highway, Ooralea. Image supplied

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CQUniversity’s Safety Circus production is set to bring its impactful musical theatre performance Safety Circus back to the classrooms of Mackay primary schools from 28 October – 15 November.
The iconic show will continue to share essential safety skills to Year 2 students with engaging storytelling, fun, and unforgettable characters. 
This tour is made possible by a long-standing partnership between CQUniversity’s Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music (CQCM) and the Mackay Crime Prevention Unit of the Queensland Police Service, with funding from the Daniel Morcombe Foundation and the Friends of the Conservatorium Inc.
The 2024 production features eight CQU Bachelor of Theatre students, directed by CQU graduate Hannah Herwin and CQCM Director Professor Judith Brown AM as producer.
“This production makes safety relatable for children, and our cast’s vibrant performances really connect with the young audience,” Prof Brown said. 
“Through an engaging storyline and memorable songs, Safety Circus teaches kids to recognise, react, and report unsafe situations – core principles of the Daniel Morcombe Foundation’s Child Safety Initiative.”
Safety Circus first premiered in 2013 and has since become an impactful, research-backed program in the Mackay region, reaching thousands of children.
 “We’re proud to support the community with an outreach program that’s fun, effective, and timely," Prof Brown said. 
"Safety Circus doesn’t just entertain – it equips children with safety skills they’ll use for life.”

By Tiahna Fiddling, CQUniversity

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Safety Circus cast in Day for Daniel shirts
Students at Walkerston State School and Eton State School enjoying the Safety Circus performance
The Safety Circus comes to town at Alligator Creek State School. Photo source: Safety Circus (Facebook)

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With The Mackay Woodturners

Get ready to deck the halls and spread some holiday cheer at the Mackay Woodturners Craft Expo, taking place at Snow Wright Court, Beaconsfield, on the weekend of November 16th and 17th from 9am to 3pm.

This festive event is a wonderful opportunity to discover unique, handcrafted treasures that make perfect gifts for everyone on your holiday shopping list…especially the little ones. You’ll find everything from quirky tables and intricate pots to beautifully crafted boats and whimsical toys. Explore a variety of intricately designed clocks that are both functional and artistic, alongside beautifully crafted ornaments and figurines.

Step into a summer wonderland of creativity where local artisans will showcase their stunning woodwork through woodturning, pyrography, intarsia, scroll sawing and carving, resulting in beautiful decorations and one-of-a-kind gifts. Among the intricate designs are a charming wooden Christmas tree and a mini wine rack crafted by talented Scroll Saw artist Rose Ware. These delightful pieces add a touch of elegance to any home and are sure to become cherished keepsakes for years to come.

The Mackay Woodturners Craft Expo is all about celebration, bringing together the community to share in the joy of the season. With a range of unique items available, you'll find something special for everyone, from handcrafted toys that spark imagination to exquisite ornaments that brighten your holiday décor. This is the perfect opportunity to shop locally and support talented artisans who pour their heart and soul into their creations.

Come along for a weekend filled with festive spirit, creativity and the joy of giving. Whether you’re searching for that perfect gift or looking to add a personal touch to your holiday celebrations, the Mackay Woodturners Craft Expo promises something for everyone. Mark your calendars and don’t miss out on this chance to create lasting memories while finding unique treasures that embody the true spirit of Christmas!

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Check out the Mackay Woodturners Christmas Expo and give the perfect gift to your friends and family this year. Photos supplied

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This is a question I ask my kids each year, in the hope that I can get an early mark to all the festive fun here in the north.

Now the question remains, is that OK?

I’ve got two kids and they both have differing views on this. My son is with me, the earlier the better. My daughter however is a little different. She has always given me a timeline of December 1 and not before. No challenges. No arguments. That is her rule, and she will not let me change it.

On my travels over the last two months, yes two, I have seen a lot of Christmas paraphernalia already on the store shelves. I am talking about the beginning of September where I’ve seen lots of Santas helpers gracing the shelves in the hopes that people like me will take them home and start to decorate to be ready for December 25.

Some say that even September for having festive materials for sale is way too early, let alone October, but you know what, each to their own. Just because it’s on sale, doesn’t mean you have to buy it.

I’ll let you in on a little secret. Each year my kids and I get a couple of new decorations to continue our Christmas tradition of making the house look great. We get a couple of new pieces like tree ornaments and wall hangings each year and we’ve been doing this for years. Most times we also get something cool for my daughter’s bedroom so she can get into the spirit too. My son, however, couldn’t care less so that’s easier and cheaper on my hip pocket.

If you’ve got something similar at your place let me know. Decorations or even modifications to the house to get it ready for the festive season? There are many people who have been working all year to get their homes ready for the season, and some who never stop.

Remember we will be heading out in December for a few nights to check out the light displays around Mackay, the Pioneer Valley and Sarina. If you have a place that’s putting lights up, let us know where and what time they will be on. We will have the annual map on our website to make it easy when you’re driving around.

Oh yes, we can’t forget when we’re talking Christmas, our annual 4MK Carols in the Gardens is on Saturday December 7 at the Meadowlands Amphitheatre. Santa will be there, Mackay’s big band with the best festive tunes and a lot of fun with the Grinch and family fun, food, dancing and more.

Put it in the diary and get ready to get festive.

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

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The Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors celebrated the 20th anniversary of being active in the region this Thursday with a special event held in their honour at Shute Harbour Marine Terminal.

Coordinator Lyn Blanche said the group was extremely proud of this milestone especially since it is a volunteer group.

The Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors celebrate 20 years this week. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

Award Winning Volunteers
Welcome 1 Million Passengers In 20 Years

The Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors’ main role is to greet the cruise ship passengers. As they disembark, the volunteers are there to welcome guests to Airlie Beach, they provide maps, information booklets, and ask what passengers want to get out of their day.

Cruise ship passengers only have limited time in Airlie Beach, so if the passengers do not currently have plans, the volunteers can suggest numerous activities.

Browsing through the local markets, exploring the Bicentennial Boardwalk, taking a dip at the lagoon or indulging at one of the restaurants are popular choices.

Many passengers enjoy spending time in a café or eating lunch and Lyn says this is a byproduct of what they are trying to achieve.

“The main priority is to make sure that every person who comes off the boat has a really good time because what we are looking for is return business,” said Lyn.

“We want them to have such a great day in Airlie Beach that they are going to come back again another time and spend a bit longer with us.

“Additionally, we're aiming to support the local businesses, that's the flip side of inviting people and being enthusiastic about the area is that it supports our local businesses as well.”

As Coordinator, Lyn creates a schedule of all arriving cruise ships and then creates a roster open to all volunteers, and those available can greet the passengers.

Lyn has been with the Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors for almost five years and Coordinator for two.

“In July we reached the millionth visitor and it has been fantastic to be able say, we have welcomed our one millionth visitor in our twentieth year,” said Lyn.

“A big thing for us this year was to win the gold award at the Whitsunday Tourism Awards for Outstanding Contribution by a Volunteer or Volunteer Group.”

Visitor Services Manager at Tourism Whitsundays Dea Huvonen helps out Lyn and the Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors where possible and is thrilled with them reaching 20 years.

“It is an incredible achievement for a volunteer group to celebrate 20 years of service,” she said.

“A big warm thank you and congratulations to each and every cruise ship volunteer who has so kindly donated their time over the years.”

Tourism Whitsunday Chief Executive Officer Tim Booth expresses his thanks towards the volunteers and says they showcase our region to travellers.

“Their dedication and warm welcomes make everyone feel right at home, creating an unforgettable experience for everyone who arrives,” he said.

“We want to give a huge thank you to each and every one of the volunteers for helping showcase the beauty of our region.

“In doing so, they create a lasting impression of our community and truly make Airlie Beach such a special destination.”

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Cruise Ship Ambassador Lyn Blanche Woodham and Dea Huvonen from Tourism Whitsundays accepting an award for Outstanding Contribution by a Volunteer or Volunteer Group at the Whitsundays Tourism Awards last month. Photo credit: R Jean Photography

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Congratulations to the Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors on celebrating 20 years this week – such a huge achievement for this active volunteer group who bring bright smiles and friendly welcomes to cruise ship guests as they arrive in the Whitsundays.

To think they’ve welcomed their 1 millionth passenger this year as well is just incredible.

Twice this week I have been down to the Airlie Beach sign at the Lagoon, once with our journalist Daniel to meet up with the Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors and the second time we went down to interview Tim Booth, the new CEO of Tourism Whitsundays.

It was great to meet Tim who seems like a really nice guy and is full of energy and enthusiasm for the massive role of leading tourism marketing in our region.

You can watch our full interview by clicking the QR code next to the article on page 6, this will take you to our YouTube Channel.

While at the Airlie Beach sign I noticed a nearby landmark had popped-up overnight – the iconic Airlie Beach Festival of Music big-top tent was in-place and ready for this weekend’s festivities.

There is always something that makes your heart sing when you see the big white awning of the tent – the promise of fun and good times – the tent perched on the headland, creating one of the most scenic main-stage venues anywhere in the country.

Now in its 13th year, our local music festival attracts thousands of people from all around the country and, if you haven’t got your tickets yet, I suggest you go and get some!

For the full line-up and an insight into some of the local venues that will be hosting live performances over the weekend turn to page 15 for our special feature.

The weather looks to be amazing all weekend so it will be a spectacular event to attend.

Rach

Quote of the Week: “Life is like a bicycle. To keep your balance you must keep moving” (Albert Einstein)

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In November, you might notice more mo’s popping up everywhere. While they often serve as a fashion statement, this month they carry a much deeper significance.
Movember is a charitable organisation dedicated to raising funds for different facets of men's health, including mental health, suicide prevention, testicular cancer, and prostate cancer.
Now emerging as a global movement, Movember is a powerful conversation starter for men worldwide and opens a safe space for those struggling.
Here in the Whitsundays, local men are already embracing the spirit of Movember by growing their moustaches, whether on their own or as part of their workplaces.
Do you think you can grow the best moustache in the Whitsundays? Enter our free competition for a chance to have your 'mo featured in the newspaper! The top mustache will win a business feature valued at $600 for your chosen business.
Join the Movember squad this year and make a difference. Grow a 'mo for your bros and help raise awareness!
Head to Mackay and Whitsunday Life Facebook page on how to enter the competition:

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Monday, November 11, marks the anniversary of the Armistice that ended the fighting with Germany in World War I.
Each year, at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, millions around the world observe a moment of silence to honor the sacrifices made by countless individuals, ensuring the freedoms and peace we enjoy today.
Suburbs around the Whitsunday region are all hosting remembrance services to pay respects to the lives that were lost.
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Find your local remembrance service below:
Bowen – Bowen RSL, 11TH November 2024, 10:45am
Airlie beach – Cannonvale Cenotaph, 11TH November 2024, 11am

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The Whitsunday region is one step closer to being Australia’s first space rocket launch site following the announcement this week that an orbit launch permit has now been granted for Bowen Orbital Spaceport.

If all goes to plan, the first rocket launch for the Gilmour Space launch site in Bowen could happen within the next few months.

Minister for Industry and Science, Ed Husic MP, and the Australian Space Agency has granted the country's first orbital launch permit to Gilmour Space Technologies for its maiden Eris rocket launch from the Bowen Orbital Spaceport.
 
An Australian launch permit is required under the Space (Launches & Returns) Act 2018 to launch an object from Australia to an altitude of over 100 kilometres. It comes with a number of conditions that must be met before launch, and a mandatory 30-day notification period. 
 
Gilmour Space CEO and co-founder, Adam Gilmour, welcomed the news as a major milestone for the local space industry. "With this green light, we will soon attempt the first orbital test flight of an Australian-made rocket from Australian soil.”
 
"Our team is assessing the conditions of the permit and will advise on the anticipated launch date for Eris TestFlight1 in the coming weeks."
 
In March, Gilmour's Bowen Orbital Spaceport was granted Australia's first orbital launch facility licence by Minister Husic and was officially opened by then-Queensland Deputy Premier Cameron Dick. 
 
In September, the company announced it had successfully completed a major wet dress rehearsal of its Eris launch vehicle, progressing the countdown to T-10 seconds.
 
The upcoming TestFlight1 will be the first of several planned test launches to reach orbit with Eris, which leverages new propulsion technologies developed by the Gold Coast-based company.  

Since starting its rocket program in 2015, Gilmour Space has expanded to over 200 employees, built a local supply chain of more than 300 Australian companies, attracted significant private investment, gained support from local, state and federal governments, and actively engaged communities across the region.
 
Its north Queensland spaceport, one of only a few private orbital launch sites globally, will initially provide access to low- and mid-inclination orbits.
 
With rockets and satellites designed and built on the Gold Coast and launched from Bowen, Gilmour's efforts have been a boon for regional Australia. 
 
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said this is a huge milestone.

"The launch approval marks an incredible milestone for Bowen and the Whitsundays region,” said Mayor Ry Collins.

“The team at Gilmour Space have been incredible to work with, and their commitment to engaging Bowen residents in this journey is a model of proactive community involvement. 
 
"Success here isn't just about reaching orbit—it's about positioning Bowen as a key player in Australia's journey to space. This is just the beginning."

For updates on TestFlight1, visit gspace.com/missions.

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Gilmour Space founders, brothers Adam and James Gilmour
Gilmour Space's Eris orbital launch vehicle at the Bowen Orbital Spaceport in north QLD
Eris on the pad

Photos supplied

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Tourism Whitsundays new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Tim Booth is now in the region and started his new position on Monday.

Tim has 18 years of experience in destination marketing organisations, progressing through the ranks and most recently was the CEO of Mudgee Region Tourism before becoming the CEO of Tourism Whitsundays.

Under Tim’s leadership the Mudgee Region increased visitation, visitor spend and won multiple State and National Tourism Awards.

Tim said he is thrilled to be working alongside the dynamic team at Tourism Whitsundays and is looking forward to meeting the fellow Tourism Whitsundays partners and members.

“We have always got to try and be better every day, that’s what we are trying to do for the entire region,” said Tim.

“We are managing the brand for the Whitsundays, we want to make sure that we get the message out there about how beautiful our region is and thankfully its absolutely iconic and world class.

“We have also got to look at continuing to build and be better every day. That’s the community, that’s all of our businesses and continue to offer a world class destination.”

Tim's prior experience includes developing and implementing major projects such as brand redevelopment, social strategy, website overhauls and event-specific platforms like the Everi platform.

He has successfully managed all aspects of digital strategy, including SEO, SEM, social media, and content creation, all while driving a data-led decision-making approach.

Tim is thrilled with his new position saying, “How could you not want to work in one of the most magical places in the world?”

Click on the QR code here to watch the full video of Tim’s interview.

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Tim Booth New CEO of Tourism Whitsundays was interviewed by Rachael Smith from Whitsunday Life Newspaper earlier this week. Photo supplied

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Last week Bowen Gumlu Growers (BGGA) celebrated a two-day agricultural event titled ‘GrownIn NQ’.

Bowen Gumlu Growers Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Jenn Honnery said the two-day event went well.

“On day-one growers, agribusinesses and related industries, got together for an industry breakfast. We had a couple of speakers talking about their specific industries, soil health and crop rotations and then we headed out for some farm tours,” said Jenn.

“On day two there was an Innovation Showcase. We had about 21 exhibitors showing off a very broad spectrum of Ag tech that's available in Queensland right now.

“It was a great opportunity for growers to get their hands on what's available for their businesses and have a really good chat with their suppliers about what would work for them."

Jenn noted that on day two it was great to see not just Ag tech suppliers and businesses interacting but seeing business to business interaction too.

“At BGGA we're really supportive of growers who are interested in investing in ag tech,” said Jenn.

“Ag tech isn't a new thing. It's been in this space for a very long time.

“I think now it's really drilling down into more data, and the more data you have about your crops, your yields, water management, pest management, the more you can fine tune your business decisions and support cutting costs, and get some real benefits in certainly yields, but also quality of produce.”

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GrownIn NQ event was extremely successful with many businesses attending. Photo sourced: Facebook

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It’s a new era for the Whitsundays, with our re-elected Queensland Member of Parliament Amanda Camm entering government and the Cabinet as Minister for Families, Seniors and Disability Services and Minister for Child Safety and the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence.
The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry offers our congratulations to the candidates who stepped up to represent our community and responded to Chamber member concerns. We look forward to continuing raising the challenges and ideas of the Whitsunday business community with Ms Camm, particularly the priorities of road infrastructure, business insurance, and increasing regional influence.  
The Chamber’s advocacy efforts span all levels of government and regional stakeholder groups, where we are a voice for the business community. We have recently been appointed to the Whitsunday Regional Council’s Economic Development Advisory Group that has the distinct purpose to support and promote the growth, sustainability, and competitiveness of our local economy through collaboration between the local government and key industry and business stakeholders. In addition to this forum, the Chamber has embarked on a series of regular knowledge exchange briefings with Council, and our members for state and federal government.
Yesterday we held our Annual General Meeting, providing positive reports on membership growth, engagement, and financial sustainability. We also outlined plans for the year ahead including the establishment of a Chamber Advisory Group, a strategic think tank that will shape a range a Chamber initiatives such as the federal election, regional economic development, workforce availability and productivity, and our Whitsunday Business Conference. We look forward to sharing updates on our progress and how the business community can get involved.
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Contributed with thanks to Alan Milostic,
President of Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

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The Council's Greening and Growing Bowen initiative created a recycled water network for Bowen's parks and public green spaces. The recycled water is treated to very high standards, ensuring it's safe for community use. With additional measures like late-night irrigation to ensure absorption before public use, this program saves $250,000 annually. Starting 1 July, the program will extend to Grays Bay Foreshore Park. For more information, check out the fact sheet on our website. https://bit.ly/Whitsundayrecycledwater

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Council recognise that local businesses are the backbone of our economy. When we engage local suppliers, tradespeople, and service providers for council projects, we’re not just delivering value for money; we’re investing in the long-term prosperity of our region.
 
For local businesses looking to work with councils in Queensland, understanding the strict procurement process is key to successfully securing contracts.
 
Which is why Council is proactive in hosting FREE workshops, specifically designed to guide you through the council's tender process and boost your chances of success. Our procurement team held a workshop recently at Shute Harbour Marine Terminal and another is planned for Flagstaff Hill.
 
I know that navigating tenders can sometimes feel complex, but these workshops are designed to make the process simpler and more accessible to local businesses. The workshops give practical insights into the process and allow interaction with procurement specialists to better educate local businesses in understanding the tendering process and improving their chances of success.
  
Council also gives a percentage weighting to local businesses to make them more competitive because we believe local businesses bring more than just skills and expertise. When they work on council projects, they’re doing more than fulfilling a contract—they’re helping to build the very community in which they live, work, and raise their families.
 
Using local businesses keeps money circulating within our region. It means jobs for local people, growth for local enterprises, and an economy that’s strong, resilient, and capable of weathering challenges, whether they be global pandemics or natural disasters.
 
We know that supporting local businesses also brings other benefits—environmental sustainability by reducing transportation costs and emissions, increased engagement and collaboration, and higher levels of trust and accountability, because the people delivering council projects are your friends and neighbours.
 
Council is committed to ensuring that local businesses have every opportunity to participate in our procurement processes through initiatives like our free tender workshops.
 
To the businesses that already partner with the council, thank you for your hard work and dedication. And to those considering taking part, I encourage you to get involved, bid for tenders, and help us continue building a bright future for our region.
 
Together, by investing in our local businesses, we’re investing in a stronger, more connected Whitsunday community.

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