Leanne McNaught is part of the sales team at Blacks Real Estate. Photo supplied

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Leanne McNaught is part of the sales team at Blacks Real Estate, working with buyers and sellers across Mackay’s growing property market.

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As a Sales Consultant with the long-established Mackay agency, Leanne is helping clients navigate residential property transactions throughout the region.

Blacks Real Estate has built a strong presence in Mackay and Dysart, servicing residential, commercial, rural and industrial clients with a focus on local knowledge and personalised service.

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With offices on Wood Street in Mackay and at Dysart Garden Plaza, the agency continues to support property owners and buyers across the wider region.

Leanne can be contacted on 0456 056 744.

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Sunday 14^th June marks the 83^rd anniversary of Australia’s worst air disaster with the 41 passengers and aircrew aboard.

The aircraft, a Boeing B-17C, was a converted former bomber, after being reconfigured for use in the transport role, having seen service in the Pacific area of operations during World War 2.

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American soldiers were brought to Australia from New Guinea for rest and relaxation leave, and this aircraft had conveyed a full compliment of these troops to Mackay a few weeks prior to the crash.  Extensive maintenance had been carried out to this battle-weary B-17, including replacement of a fuel tank and 2 of the 4 engines in the time leading up to the fateful flight.

A memorial ceremony will be held at the Bakers Creek monument in the grounds of the Community Hall, on Sunday 7^th June, commencing at 2.45pm. to commemorate the lives lost.

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Flags of the 23 American home states of those who perished will be a feature of the ceremony, and cadets of 105 (City of Mackay) Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets will parade and form the Honour Guard, as they have done annually, since the unveiling and dedication in May 1992.  

Students from local schools will contribute musical items and a fly past from the Mackay Tiger Moth Museum aircraft will provide an aerial salute.

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WHAT: Memorial at Bakers Creek Monument

WHERE: Community Hall

WHEN: Sunday 7^th June at 2.45pm

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Dominick Hawkes, founder of Oz-E Wild Adventures, uses photography and videography to showcase Australia’s unique nocturnal wildlife. Photo source: Oz-E Wild Adventures

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Inspired by the wildlife documentaries he watched growing up in Canada, Mackay’s Dominick Hawkes now spends his nights exploring the Australian bush in search of elusive native species to photograph through his wildlife platform, Oz-E Wild Adventures.

“The sudden shift from freezing Canadian winters to the vibrant, sun-drenched atmosphere of the Southern Hemisphere instantly opened my eyes and sparked a deep want for adventure,” Mr Hawkes said.

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Driven by a fascination with the nocturnal world, Mr Hawkes ventures out after dark to capture some of Australia’s rarest and most elusive creatures in their natural habitats, from cryptic pythons to gliders and native reptiles rarely seen by most people.

Through his photography and videography, he hopes to inspire greater appreciation and understanding of Australia’s wildlife and the importance of protecting the habitats they rely on.

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“Every habitat in Australia is vital because our ecosystems are deeply interconnected, and an incredible 87 per cent of our mammals and 93 per cent of our reptiles exist nowhere else on Earth,” he said.

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“When deforestation occurs, it doesn’t just clear trees; it destroys ancient, irreplaceable evolutionary lineages and drives unique species toward extinction.”

Mr Hawkes said wildlife photography involved far more than simply waiting for the perfect shot, often requiring long hikes through the bush carrying equipment, tracking signs of animal activity and spending hours searching remote areas at night.

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“It’s trekking for miles with water and food while tracking signs of life in the bush,” he said.

“And sometimes it’s waking up the next morning only to find a hitchhiking tick you missed the night before — the price you pay for the adventure.”

Mr Hawkes said his passion for wildlife and conservation was also driven by his hopes for the future of his four-year-old daughter, Margaux, who he enjoys teaching about the animals and discoveries he encounters in the wild.

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“I do have a beautiful four-year-old Australian daughter, Margaux, and I love teaching her about my findings and helping her appreciate nature and wildlife from a young age,” he said.

Mr Hawkes said he would also love the opportunity to turn his passion into meaningful conservation work in the future, whether through national parks, ranger work or working closely with regional communities.

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“I’d love to get my foot in the door somewhere meaningful where I can work with communities and help look after national parks and our native wildlife,” he said.

Through Oz-E Wild Adventures, Mr Hawkes said his ultimate goal was to spark curiosity, respect and love for Australia’s wildlife and natural environment.

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To see more of Dominick Hawkes’ wildlife photography and adventures, search Oz-E Wild Adventures across social media platforms.

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Saturday 6^th June

Freestyle Kings Live World Tour
7pm | BB Print Stadium

Get ready for an action-packed night as the Freestyle Kings Live World Tour roars into Mackay. Featuring some of the world’s biggest names in freestyle motocross and BMX, the two-hour spectacular promises gravity-defying stunts, jaw-dropping tricks and plenty of heart-racing moments. Led by FMX legend Robbie Maddison alongside world champions Clinton Moore and Pat Bowden, the show will feature double backflips, front flips and never-before-seen tricks performed by an elite lineup of riders. With pyrotechnics, live entertainment, merchandise and a family-friendly atmosphere, Freestyle Kings is more than just a stunt show — it’s a full-throttle experience for all ages. VIP meet-and-greet packages are also available for fans wanting an up-close experience with the riders.

Sunday 7^th June

BMA Mackay Marina Run
9:30am | Mackay Marina

Lace up your running shoes for one of Queensland’s most scenic running events. The BMA Mackay Marina Run returns with distances to suit everyone, including a half marathon (21.1km), 10km, 5km and 3km Kids Dash. Set against Mackay’s stunning coastline and blue-water marina, the flat and fast course is perfect for both seasoned runners chasing a personal best and first-time participants looking for a fun challenge. The event also raises valuable funds for local Leukaemia Foundation programs. Whether you’re running, walking or cheering from the sidelines, it promises to be a fantastic community day.
More information: mackaymarinarun.com

Thursday 11^th June

Play and Grow – A Morning for Little Ones
9am–11am | Mackay Central State School

Families with young children are invited to enjoy a morning of fun, connection and play at Mackay Central State School. The free community event will feature jumping castles, face painting, hands-on activities and opportunities to meet local family and support services. Designed to bring families together in a welcoming environment, Play and Grow offers little ones a chance to explore and play while parents and carers connect with others in the community. It’s the perfect way to spend a relaxed morning filled with smiles, laughter and new friendships.

Saturday 13^th June

Music of the Night – A Tribute to Andrew Lloyd Webber
2pm | MECC

Experience the magic of musical theatre as Joey Fimmano brings his award-winning production Music of the Night to Mackay. Celebrating the timeless music of Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber and the great musicals of the West End and Broadway, the show features beloved songs from The Phantom of the Opera, Jesus Christ Superstar, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and more. Backed by an exceptional cast and live band, audiences can expect an afternoon of soaring vocals, spectacular performances and unforgettable musical moments. Whether you're a lifelong theatre lover or simply enjoy great live entertainment, this is a show not to miss.
Tickets: themecc.com.au

Saturday 13^th June

Harbour Moon Market
3:30pm–7:30pm | Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club

Enjoy a relaxed evening by the water at the Harbour Moon Market. Browse more than 30 unique stalls showcasing local makers, creators and small businesses while enjoying live music and delicious food from a range of food trucks. Grab a coffee, settle in by the harbour and soak up the community atmosphere as the sun goes down. With the Surf Club’s bar and restaurant also open, it’s the perfect opportunity to catch up with friends, support local businesses and enjoy a great family-friendly night out.

Thursday 18^th June

Waiting for God
7:30pm | Kucom Theatre, Andergrove

Kucom Theatre invites audiences to enjoy a hilarious and heartwarming night of live theatre with Waiting for God. Inspired by the much-loved British television comedy, the production follows sharp-witted retiree Diana Trent and fellow resident Tom Ballard as they join forces to outsmart the management of Bayview Retirement Village. Packed with humour, charm and plenty of relatable moments, the show explores friendship, ageing and community in a modern world. The production opens on 18 June and runs across multiple performance dates, with local cast and crew working hard behind the scenes to bring the comedy to life.

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Photo credit: Hannah McNamara  

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Legends On The Lawn drew a huge crowd to Harrup Park, Mackay, on Saturday 30th May, with a star-studded line-up delivering a memorable night of live Australian music.

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Headlined by Aussie rock legend Jimmy Barnes, the event featured an impressive mix of iconic performers including Jon Stevens, Birds of Tokyo, Baby Animals, Busby Marou and Bachelor Girl.

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Music fans from across the region gathered at Harrup Park for the highly anticipated concert, with the atmosphere building from the opening performances through to the headline act at 8pm.

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It’s safe to say, Legends On The Lawn 2026 brought together multiple generations of music lovers for a celebration of iconic true blue talent and live entertainment on the green!

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See more photos here:

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Part 1: https://www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/legends-on-the-lawn-delivers-epic-afternoon-of-aussie-tunes-part-1

Part 2: https://www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/legends-on-the-lawn-delivers-epic-afternoon-of-aussie-tunes-part-2

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Landholders, environmental groups and community members are invited to learn the latest techniques for tackling invasive woody weeds at a series of free training sessions across the Mackay region later this month.

Hosted by the Queensland Agriculture Workforce Network (Central Queensland), the workshops will feature leading woody weed expert Dr Vic Galea from the University of Queensland, who has spent more than two decades researching and developing effective weed control methods.

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Participants will learn about biological and chemical control options, including stem-implanted capsules designed to target invasive species while reducing chemical handling and environmental impacts compared to traditional spraying methods.

The training will focus on the identification and eradication of problem species including rubbervine, parkinsonia, prickly acacia, mimosa pigra, chinese apple, cats claw creeper and leucaena.

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Each session will include a 90-minute presentation followed by a practical field component, with attendees gaining hands-on experience using the specialised techniques and equipment.

Training sessions will be held at Yalboroo Community Hall on the 22^nd of June, the Ted Malone Rural Skills Centre in Sarina on the 23^rd of June, and Mackay Canegrowers on Wood Street on the 24^th of June.

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The free sessions are open to landholders, Landcare groups, council and Parks and Wildlife staff, and anyone interested in weed management. Registrations of interest close on the 15^th of June.

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A sea of colourful threads sprawled across the tables at Mater Private Hospital Mackay last Friday, as hands of all ages carefully looped, twisted and wove raffia together to celebrate and recognise National Reconciliation Week.

Laughter and friendly conversation filled the room as community members sat side-by-side learning the traditional art of weaving from First Nations artist Lee George.

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Held as part of this year’s National Reconciliation Week theme, “All In”, the collaborative weaving project invited the community to come together not only to create a shared artwork, but to create connection and understanding.

For Artist Lee George, weaving carries a meaning far greater than art alone.

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“I love the connection that comes with it… it’s sharing stories, teaching people how to weave, and passing on my knowledge to other people,” she said.

Around the room, attendees leaned in close to learn new techniques, helping one another through tangled raffia and uneven loops, while conversations unfolded.

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“I think this kind of project brings everybody together and they’re also learning a new skill,” Lee said.

For many, the simple act of weaving offers a moment to slow down.

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“Weaving slows you down, and is also very grounding, so it keeps you very calm,” she said.

Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said council was proud to partner with Mater Private Hospital Mackay to actively engage the community in a hands-on activity.  

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“This year we have engaged First Nations artist Lee George, who uses traditional weaving as a way to tell stories, create connection and build patience and respect,” Mayor Williamson said.

“By many people contributing to a woven piece, it’s incredibly symbolic of how we all need to work together towards reconciliation,” he said.

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“It’s a visual acknowledgement that we each need to step away from the sidelines and actively be involved in change.”

Community Development Officer Mulum Stone, who organised the event, said reconciliation begins with people coming together.

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“It’s about sitting around, engaging with each other and building relationships from a place of trust, respect and openness,” Ms Stone said.

“I can’t think of a better way to do this.”

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General Manager of Mater Private Hospital Mackay Kate Wade said the hospital was proud to help create space for those conversations to happen.

“It’s wonderful that we are able to play a key role in starting conversations around First Nations culture and reconciliation.”

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Mater’s Reconciliation Action Plan Program Manager Jo Jones said this year’s “All In” theme reflected a commitment to walking forward together.

“At Mater, being ‘all in’ means walking together with respect, listening with open hearts, and committing to reconciliation through understanding, inclusion and shared action,” Ms Jones said.

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“We honour Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, cultures and histories as we work together toward a more just and united future.”

Community members came together at Mater Private Hospital Mackay to weave, share stories and foster connection during National Reconciliation Week. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara  

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The Airlie Beach foreshore was abuzz last Saturday, as the traditional owners of the land invited the community to Welcome the Whales back to the region.

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Traditional Land Owners marked the event with a smoking ceremony and demonstration of traditional dance, with tens of little ones joining in for the final song. Before and after the ceremony community members browsed food trucks, arts, crafts, and stalls from Whitsunday Conservation Council, Ocean Rafting, Whales of the Whitsunday, and more.  

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After the skies turned dark and lit up with the Southern Cross, pointed out by the traditional land owners as an important feature in a Dreaming story, attendees cosied up in camp chairs and picnic blankets for a screening of Free Willy 2.

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Held during Reconciliation Week, the event shared stories and perspectives from Ngaro speakers & dancers, who performed dances telling the stories of the Wedge-tailed Eagle, Grey Kangaroo, and Rainbow Serpent.

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As explained by the Whales of The Whitsundays organisation:

“The Ngaro, often referred to as the Sea People, have lived in close connection to these islands and oceans for over 9000 years. The Whitsundays were the heart of their life and culture. Using handcrafted three-piece canoes made of ironbark, called winta, they navigated these waters for fishing, gathering, and community journeys.

“Their deep understanding of the Marine environment enabled them to sustainably hunt sea creatures, including dugongs, turtles and even small whales, using barbed harpoons that allowed for humane, controlled hunting.  

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“The Dreaming, a spiritual worldview of creation and connection, lives in stories passed down through generations. One such story from Ngaro Elder Aunty Sue, tells of the Rainbow Serpent who moved through the sea, laying her eggs as she went. Those Eggs became the islands you see today, giving us sacred reminders of the past in the present landscape.”

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The Whitsundays became a designated Whale Heritage Area in March 2024, and is increasingly recognised as an ideal natural environment in which to experience these gentle giants. But, revellers are reminded to respect the creatures, the land and the ocean as they do so.  

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Boats must switch off their engine and not travel within 300 metres of a humpback, and should practice caution when sailing at night. If a whale is accidentally struck, it must be reported, via gbrmpa.gov.au/report-an-incident.

The population of whales is being studied by scientists on shore, and at the University of Queensland, specifically the Centre for Marine Science.  

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Want to learn more about the whales? Visit: https://www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/article/inside-the-whale---the-story-of-the-magnificent-mammals-that-visit-the-whitsundays

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Residents and visitors are encouraged to take part in the observation and study of the animals by reporting any sightings via the Eye on the Reef App – scan the QR code to download now.

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Whales of the Whitsundays are raising funds to support the whales through a raffle. Enter for a chance to win a mother and calf humpback whale print, donated by Above and Below Gallery, by scanning the QR code below.  

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Visit https://www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/whale-season-officially-welcomed-in to see more photos.

Between the tides will be headlined by Boy & Bear, whose soaring harmonies will fill the air and lift across the foreshore.

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The award-winning concert series Between the Tides is back in July and has found a stunning new home on Ngaro Country at Airlie Beach along the sparkling Great Barrier Reef coastline. For three years, this one-of-a-kind event has brought together music, culture, and nature, and now it is stepping into an exciting new chapter.

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Find your rhythm on The Reef as some of Australia’s most celebrated musicians take to the stage against the stunning backdrop of the Whitsunday coast. Headlined by Boy & Bear, whose soaring harmonies fill the air and lift across the foreshore, the music flows seamlessly from one performance to the next. Jem Cassar-Daley follows with soulful songs that drift over the sand, drawing you in with every note. Mid Drift carries the feeling onward with intimate, heartfelt melodies that seem to ripple with the waves. Tjaka sparks a surge of energy, blending beats, rap, and didgeridoo in a way that makes the crowd move together. Rounding out the lineup, local singer Kaylee West brings warm, folk-inspired songs shaped by the ocean and open road, perfectly in tune with the coastal setting.

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Guided by the custodians of the Ngaro Nation, this is more than a concert. Experience cultural performances, sand art, workshops, and knowledge-sharing, alongside locally crafted food, drinks, and art. Dance, share stories, and connect with the rhythms of this ever-changing coastal landscape.

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Feel the breeze off the Coral Sea, and let the music, culture, and coastal beauty carry you away. Between the Tides at Airlie Beach is a day to connect, to dance, to share stories, and to create memories you’ll never forget.

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Tickets are limited and expected to sell quickly. Secure your place now and be part of something truly unforgettable.

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This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through Creative Australia, its principal arts investment and advisory body.

What? Between The Tides
When? Saturday 4th July  
Where? 8 Airlie Esplanade

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Volunteers are being sought to help bring Between the Tides to life at Airlie Beach this July, with locals invited to support the festival while enjoying a night of live music and cultural experiences.

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Music lovers are being encouraged to get involved in one of the Whitsundays’ most exciting live music events, with volunteers now being sought for Between the Tides in Airlie Beach this July.

Presented as part of the QLD Music Trails: The Reef series, the one-day festival-style experience will transform the Airlie Beach Foreshore into a vibrant celebration of music, culture, art and community on Saturday, 4th July.

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Whitsunday coastline on Ngaro Country, the event will feature a stellar line-up of Australian artists including Boy & Bear, Jem Cassar-Daley, Mid Drift, Tjaka and Kaylee West.

Organisers are calling for volunteers to help make the event a success, offering locals the chance to be part of the action while supporting a major cultural event in the region.

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Volunteer roles include greeting patrons, scanning tickets, handing out wristbands and assisting with merchandise sales throughout the afternoon and evening.

There are two volunteer shift options available, and once volunteers complete their shift, they’ll receive a GA18+ wristband allowing them to enjoy the live performances and festival atmosphere afterwards.

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More than just a concert, Between the Tides promises a rich cultural experience featuring workshops, sand art, cultural performances and knowledge-sharing opportunities, alongside locally crafted food, drinks and art installations.

Organisers say volunteering is a great opportunity to meet new people, support live music and experience the event from behind the scenes.

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Anyone interested in volunteering can complete the application form online at qldmusictrails.com/volunteer. For further information, email ticketing@qldmusictrails.com or call 07 3010 6600.

WHAT:  Between the Tides
WHERE: Airlie Beach Foreshore, Ngaro Country

WHEN:  Saturday 4th July, 2pm-10pm

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Photo supplied

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By day, Whitsundays community leader Bec Woods works full-time supporting local families and community members. By night, she writes dystopian fiction.

Now, after years balancing community work, family life, and writing around a full-time schedule, Woods is preparing to release her debut novel, The Quiet Held, on the 30th June.

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Set in a tightly controlled society governed through compliance, allocation, and “care,” The Quiet Held explores what happens when systems designed to protect people slowly become systems that control them.

For Woods, the inspiration did not come from abstract science fiction ideas, but from years spent working within real community structures in the Whitsundays.

“When you work closely with people long enough, you start noticing how much power systems hold over everyday life,” Woods said.  

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“Not just governments, but policies, assessments, processes, approvals. Most systems begin with good intentions, but over time they can become impersonal. That tension became the heart of the book.”

The local author said the novel was shaped around the emotional realities of institutional language, efficiency culture, and the pressure many people feel to remain compliant within systems they depend on.

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Despite writing a full trilogy, Woods has continued working full-time throughout the drafting and publishing process.

“This book was written between work and everyday responsibilities,” she said.  

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“I think being a frontline worker helped the story. There’s space here to observe people closely. Community work keeps you connected to what matters.”

The novel blends literary fiction with speculative dystopian themes and has drawn comparisons to Never Let Me Go and The Handmaid’s Tale for its restrained emotional style and social commentary.

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Woods said she hopes readers connect not only with the larger dystopian themes, but with the quieter human moments inside the story.

“At its core, it’s really about belonging, survival, and the small compromises people make to feel safe.”

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The Quiet Held will be available in paperback and ebook formats from 30th June 2026 from Amazon.  https://amzn.asia/d/0dqMXxuw

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Where do stories come from?

That question will take centre stage at the 2026 Whitsundays Writers Festival when three accomplished regional authors come together for an entertaining and insightful panel discussion exploring the origins of creativity.

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Where Do You Get Your Story Ideas From? will reveal the surprising, strange, and often mundane everyday moments that spark books, characters, and stories, offering audiences a glimpse into the minds of working writers.

The afternoon session forms part of the Whitsundays Writers Festival on Sunday 13 September 2026 at the Whitsunday Marine Club, Cannonvale.

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Festival Director Richard Evans said the panel would appeal to readers and aspiring writers alike.

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“People often assume writers are waiting for lightning to strike, but inspiration can come from a conversation overheard in a café, a childhood memory, a newspaper article, a road trip, or a simple ‘what if?’ question,” Richard said.  

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“This discussion explores the many ways stories begin and how writers transform everyday experiences into something readers connect with.”

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The panel brings together three authors whose work spans personal development, adventure memoir, and crime fiction.

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Krissy Regan

Children’s Author & Adult Personal Development

After decades of travel and delivering projects for clients around the world, Krissy Regan embarked on a creative journey of her own, publishing her first book in 2020 and quickly following it with five more titles. A passionate storyteller, Krissy writes for children and adults, creating meaningful, values-based content designed to inspire and encourage. She is also a regular contributor to family publications including Kiddipedia and other print and online media.

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Gary Wood

Adventure Memoir

Award-winning author, travel writer, and motorcycle adventurer Gary Wood finds inspiration on the back roads of regional Australia. Through his books Gun Fights, Ghosts and Goannas and Red Dust and Rainforests, as well as his popular website Digital Swaggie, Gary documents the people, landscapes, and forgotten places that continue to shape Australia’s identity. His storytelling combines history, observation, humour, and a deep appreciation for the practical wisdom found in regional and remote communities.

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Veronica Lando

Crime Fiction

North Queensland author Veronica Lando grew up above her parents’ Melbourne bookshop, surrounded by stories from an early age. Her debut novel The Whispering won the 2021 Banjo Prize for Fiction and was shortlisted for the Queensland Literary Awards Courier-Mail People’s Choice Book of the Year and Sisters in Crime Scarlet Stiletto Award. She has since secured multiple publishing contracts and established herself as a rising voice in Australian crime fiction. Drawing inspiration from North Queensland’s uniquely harsh and sometimes dangerous landscapes, Veronica creates atmospheric stories that blur the line between beauty and menace.

The discussion forms part of a full day of literary events celebrating local authors, regional stories, and community connection.

The 2026 festival programme also includes the prestigious From the Heart keynote by multi-award-winning romance author Rachel Armstrong, the presentation of the Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards, and Stories by the Sea — a free community event featuring more than 20 regional authors, book sales and swaps, live music, art demonstrations, children’s activities, and a gold coin BBQ.  

Tickets and full programme details are available via the festival website: https://www.whitsundayswriters.com/2026-programme-speakers/

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What: Whitsundays Writers Festival  

When: Sunday 13 September 2026

Where: Whitsunday Marine Club, 7 Altmann Avenue, Cannonvale

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Last fortnight, we explored why life skills matter and how they to navigate the ups and downs of everyday life. The next step is knowing where these skills develop.  

Life skills are built in everyday moments.

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They grow in the small interactions: a disagreement with a sibling, frustration over homework or workplace activities, or deciding what to do with free time. These situations offer natural opportunities to strengthen skills like problem-solving, communication, and emotional awareness.

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Rather than stepping in quickly to fix things, a more helpful approach is to stay alongside and guide. Simple prompts can make a big difference:

• “What do you think might help here?”  

• “How are you feeling about this?”  

• “What could you try next?”  

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These questions encourage reflection without pressure, helping  people build self-awareness and confidence in their own thinking.

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You can also create small, intentional opportunities:

• Let them make age-appropriate decisions (e.g., planning part of their day)  

• Encourage problem-solving before offering solutions  

• Talk openly about emotions yours and theirs  

• Model calm responses when things don’t go to plan  

• The goal isn’t to get it “right” every time, it’s to practise.

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Over time, these repeated moments build a strong internal toolkit. People begin to recognise their emotions, think through challenges, and communicate more effectively.

Next fortnight, we’ll focus on two of the most important (and often overlooked) life skills—managing emotions and coping with stress—and how to support these in practical, everyday ways.

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“If you’d like more support, visit my website  https://www.personaltransitions.com.au/ or give me a call 0418708214.”NDIS FRIENDLY

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How to Stop Time is a beautifully written and thought-provoking novel that stayed with me long after I finished it. Matt Haig has a wonderful way of blending the ordinary with the extraordinary, and this story is no exception.

I just loved the story and the way it transported me to and from different time periods. Following Tom Hazard’s life across centuries was fascinating, and each era was brought to life with such vivid detail that I felt completely immersed in his journey. Beneath the novel’s unique premise lies a deeply human story about loneliness, love, belonging, and learning how to truly live in the present.

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Like other Matt Haig books that I have read, I thoroughly enjoyed this one just as much. His writing is full of warmth, wisdom, and compassion, making even the most complex emotions feel relatable and understandable.

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Another favourite of mine is The Comfort Book, which is filled with little quotes, anecdotes, and delights that offer comfort and perspective when needed most. Haig has a remarkable ability to connect with readers on a personal level. I think what makes Matt Haig such a fabulous writer is his honesty and empathy. His books resonate even more when you are navigating your own trials and tribulations, offering reassurance, hope, and moments of reflection.

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How to Stop Time is a captivating, heartfelt read that I would highly recommend.

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Amy Smith 

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Caprioglio Girls carting cane

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It is impossible to estimate the importance of the role that women have played in the history of the sugar industry. They not only raised and cared for large families but were often responsible for feeding the gangs of canecutters who came to the district during the harvesting season. Their duties soon extended into the fields working alongside their partners, forging out a life for their families.

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Women played a vital role in supporting field work, especially during the harvest. Many Italian migrants who came to Queensland as early settlers began as canecutters and their labour depended heavily on the assistance of their wives, as well as the wives of the farmers who employed them. These women prepared the large, hearty meals needed to sustain the demanding work of cutting and loading cane.

Stories of Italian women cooking for gangs of canecutters demonstrate the sheer scale of the task. On some farms, cane was loaded as early as 3 am, so these women were often up by 2.30 am to light the fire and prepare breakfast. In addition to cooking, they carted smoko out to the fields. Their day frequently did not end until 9 pm.

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Prior to World War Two, only Italian women worked regularly in the field reflecting cultural differences. With the critical shortage of labour during the war, however, all women rallied to the occasion often working farms singlehandedly while continuing to care for their large families. By 1942, many farmers’ wives had learned to drive tractors.  

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In the early years, women made a major contribution to farming by preparing and planting sugar cane. Stripping cane was hot, hard, and time-consuming, but it provided valuable seasonal work. Often with children in tow, women worked in the paddocks with gloves to strip the cane and ready it for planting. Many then went on to operate tractors, taking on another demanding role in the process.

Today, women continue to work in the fields, helping with planting, fertilising, harvesting and haulout operations. In joint farming operations, their administrative and accounting skills are essential to running the business. Many have also farmed successfully in their own right.  

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The asset value of women to the industry also extends beyond the farm. On the milling side, they have made a significant impact. Initially, their involvement was mainly restricted to the offices and in laboratories as assistants, check chemists and cane testers. Despite resistance from some to their employment in this section, they were regarded as more accurate as weighbridge clerks. By 1997, women were employed in all areas of the Proserpine Sugar Mill.  

Sugar boiler, Michelle Wilkins, made history as the first female sugar boiler. She and Lola Pogson formed the first female pan stage team in the Australian Sugar Industry. Katrina Bowman, employed as an ash handler on the boilers, was the first woman at Proserpine Sugar Mill to gain a steam turbine ticket. The first female loco fireperson was Vicki Bernett who was appointed in 1989. These are just a few examples.  

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While women were most visible in farming, harvesting and milling sectors, some also advanced into leadership and management. From 2007 to 2013, Del Linneweber served as a director of the Proserpine CANEGROWERS and in 2022, Bessie Orr was elected as a director of the organisation and currently still holds this position.    

Women can be justly proud of their continuing contribution to the sugar industry. Their roles have been wide-ranging, vital, but far too often understated.

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Information and photo sourced from PHMS archives; “A Crystal Century”; “Centenary Celebrations: A Scrapbook” (Proserpine Sugar Industry 1897 – 1997) and “A Heart in Two Places”.

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