The sister duo behind Ivory Picnic Co are turning celebrations into unforgettable experiences. Photo supplied

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Born from a shared passion for creating meaningful moments, Ivory Picnic Co is transforming celebrations across Mackay and surrounding regions with its beautifully styled luxury picnic experiences. Founded by sisters Jaclyn and Katina Rook, the business combines creativity, elegance and a genuine love for bringing people together to create unforgettable occasions tailored to each client’s unique vision.

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From romantic anniversaries and dreamy proposals to birthdays, baby showers and intimate catch-ups with friends, every setup is thoughtfully curated with meticulous attention to detail — right down to the final flourish. Whether it’s a cosy beachside picnic for two or a larger celebration surrounded by loved ones, Ivory Picnic Co brings a touch of luxury and effortless charm to every event.

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Servicing Mackay, Sarina, Seaforth and Finch Hatton, the sister duo are passionate about taking the stress out of hosting, allowing clients to simply arrive, relax and soak in the moment. With glowing testimonials and a growing local following, Ivory Picnic Co is quickly becoming one of the region’s go-to names for stylish celebrations filled with warmth, beauty and heart.

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Star Sign: Cancerian 

Fave movie: How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days. 

Fave colour: I love them all. 

Fave holiday destination: Again, love them all – I’m still exploring. 

Fave music: I have a diverse taste in music. I love Fleetwood Mac, Olivia Dean, Tool, Rage Against the Machine, Hip Hop and also Debussy- specifically Clair de Lune. I just love music. 

Fave quote: Be kind as you may be the nicest thing to happen in someone’s day.  

Tell us something most people don't know about you? There are many things; perhaps that I love to go the movies or coffee dates alone is a random pass time most people don’t enjoy.  

Corissa Ivory is a woman who does it all. She’s a successful business owner, authentic make-up artist and, often, a therapist for the clients who sit in her salon chair. Beyond her profession, she’s a wife to Jason, her cherished husband of 20 years, mum to her beloved 14-year-old son Logan, and proud dog mum to 13-year-old Mickey.  

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Interestingly, Corissa’s career began in hospitality, where she proudly made “the best cappuccinos in town as a teenager,” before mastering the art of carrying three beers in one hand. From there, she moved into the corporate world while quietly building her beauty skills and growing Funk It Up into the respected business it is today.

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Twenty years later, Corissa has created a thriving makeup artistry empire alongside a passionate team dedicated to helping people feel beautiful for every occasion.

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A lifelong Mackay local, she treasures quiet moments by the beach, time with family and friends, and cheering on Logan through his many interests. Determined, introverted and honest, Corissa says becoming a mother has been both the greatest gift and the greatest adventure of her life.

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@Funk It Up

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Marie Muscat is a vibrant, passionate celebrant based in Mackay, proudly serving couples across the Mackay and Whitsunday area. With a warm and engaging presence, Marie brings personality, heart, and genuine connection to every ceremony – helping couples feel relaxed, celebrated, and truly seen on their most important day.

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From the first conversation to the final “I do,” Marie focuses on creating meaningful celebrations that reflect the couple’s story. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a more formal occasion, Marie’s approach is personal, attentive, and guided by what matters most to you. She understands that every relationship is unique, and she loves tailoring each ceremony so it feels authentic rather than generic.

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For couples who want their ceremony to be more than just words, Marie works to create a moment that guests remember and couples carry with them long after the day is done. Marie’s passion shows in the way she connects with people, the way she leads with confidence and care, and the way she turns planning into something enjoyable and exciting.

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If you’re looking for a celebrant who is enthusiastic, personable, and committed to delivering a ceremony filled with meaning, Marie Muscat would be honoured to be part of your journey.

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mariemuscatevents.com.au

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In the heart of North Queensland’s wedding scene, the countdown is underway for one of the region’s most anticipated bridal events – the 2026 Mackay & Whitsundays Wedding Expo, returning on Saturday, June 6th from 4:00pm to 8:00pm at the Mackay Showgrounds.

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Set beneath the soft glow of early evening light, the expo entails an elegant, immersive experience for couples stepping into one of life’s most meaningful chapters. Whether newly engaged or refining final details, guests will find an inspired, one-stop destination where wedding dreams begin to take shape with ease, creativity, and connection.

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Bringing together the region’s most sought-after wedding professionals, the event offers couples the opportunity to meet planners, celebrants, florists, stylists, hair and makeup artists, venues, entertainers, caterers and cake designers, all under one roof. A photo booth will also be available on site. It is, at its heart, a celebration of local talent and the artistry behind the region’s most stunning, seamless, and successful wedding days.  

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Beyond inspiration, the expo is designed as a practical planning experience. Couples can explore the latest bridal trends, compare services, secure bookings, and speak directly with suppliers who understand the unique character and beauty of your special day, from coastal ceremonies to hinterland celebrations.

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This year also introduces a refined new feature: the VIP Wedding Expo Experience. Designed for couples seeking something a little more elevated, the VIP package offers exclusive lounge access, curated canapés by Sinful Kitchen, three complimentary drinks per guest, reserved front-row seating at the fashion parade, and a luxe VIP gift bag to take home. It’s an invitation to slow down, sip, and savour the moment while planning unfolds in style. Organisers encourage guests to secure tickets early via Eventbrite to avoid missing out.

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More than an expo, the evening unfolds as a shared experience, a space where ideas are sparked, visions come to life, and couples are guided gently and professionally, toward the day they’ve been imagining. From the first “yes” to the final dance, every detail finds its place among a community of passionate creators ready to bring your love story to life.

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What: The 2026 Mackay & Whitsundays Wedding Expo

When: Saturday 6th June  -  4pm – 8pm

Where: Mackay Showgrounds

General Admission: Free

VIP Wedding Expo Experience: $65  

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Echoes of the Gorge – A Creative Community invites the community to come together and shape a Creative Sunday that reflects local identity, celebrates place and strengthens connections.

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Led by volunteers, local artists, residents and businesses, the community-driven initiative is part of the Mackay Festival of Arts and aims to grow participation, support local businesses and build a shared vision for future community-led creative events and a long-term regional arts trail.

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Organised by the Finch Hatton Progress Association (FHPA), the event transforms ‘The Old Finch Hatton Railway Station – Community and Creative Hub’ into a welcoming space for creativity, culture and connection. The day encourages local people to lead and participate in free workshops (all ages), art and artisan markets, stunning art exhibition and life music by talented local buskers that reflect the unique character of the Pioneer Valley.

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Taking place on Sunday, 9 August 2026, from 9am to 3pm, The Old Finch Hatton Railway Station will come alive with colour, sound and artistic expression. Free creative workshops throughout the day will offer hands-on experiences for all ages and abilities, while an art and artisan market will showcase handcrafted goods and unique treasures from local makers and creators.

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Live buskers will provide an ever-changing soundtrack across the grounds, adding to the vibrant community atmosphere.

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Beyond the station, visitors are encouraged to explore nearby attractions, including the ‘Mad Hatter Tea Party’ hosted by One Hungry Mumma from 11am to 2pm, the Eungella Community Markets from 9am to 1pm, ‘Build Your Own Waffle Bar’ at The Gift Shed Cafe (9am to 3pm), Badilla Art Gallery in Pinnacle is open from 9am to 12pm and live music at The Criterion Hotel from 3pm onwards.

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Echoes of the Gorge - A Creative Community stands as a tribute to creativity, connection and place, bringing people together through shared artistic expression.

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The event is proudly supported by Premium Sponsor Robyn Agius – Area Specialist, helping bring this regional cultural experience to life and funding from the Mackay Regional Council.

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Mark your calendars for Sunday, 9 August 2026 and experience a celebration where creativity, culture and community come alive in the heart of Finch Hatton.

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For more information visit: finchhatton.org.au

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Nestled along Mackay’s picturesque northern coastline, Comfort Resort Blue Pacific is quietly carving out a reputation as one of the region’s most tranquil beachfront escapes – a destination where time slows, sea breezes replace city noise and guests are invited to truly unwind.

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Framed by tropical gardens and absolute beachfront views, the resort offers a rare blend of seclusion and convenience. Just minutes from the Northern Beaches’ growing retail and dining precincts, yet worlds away from the rush of everyday life, the property has become a favourite among holidaymakers, regional families and corporate travellers alike.

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For many guests arriving from inland mining communities and rural Queensland towns, the resort represents a welcome change of scenery, an opportunity to trade dust and long workdays for ocean air, palm-lined pathways and evenings spent beside the water watching the islands shimmer on the horizon.

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New Owner and Managing Director Renee said the resort’s direct beachfront position continued to be its defining feature, offering visitors an experience few accommodations in the region could replicate. Guests can step from the resort grounds directly onto the sand, immersing themselves in the calming rhythm of the coastline from the moment they arrive.

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The property is equally appealing to corporate and fly-in workers seeking more than standard city accommodation. Spacious self-contained apartments, quiet surrounds and a relaxed atmosphere provide a “home away from home.” It’s a place where guests can decompress after long shifts while still remaining connected to Mackay’s key business and industrial hubs.

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The resort’s charm lies in its atmosphere. Afternoons are often spent sitting quietly by the waterfront, soaking in uninterrupted ocean views and the peaceful ambience that has become synonymous with the property. It is this understated simplicity that keeps guests returning time and time again.

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Despite its prime location, Comfort Resort Blue Pacific remains something of a hidden gem, with many Mackay locals surprised to discover the secluded beachfront retreat tucked quietly along the coast. That sense of discovery has only added to the resort’s growing appeal, particularly for couples and families seeking a short escape without venturing far from home.

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Now under the stewardship of new owners Renee and Brett, the resort is entering an exciting new chapter. With fresh energy and a long-term vision for thoughtful modernisation, the pair are focused on enhancing the guest experience while preserving the relaxed coastal character that has made the property so beloved.

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Elegant yet unpretentious, peaceful yet connected, Comfort Resort Blue Pacific captures the essence of a true coastal retreat, where the ocean is always within reach, the atmosphere is effortlessly calming and every stay feels a little like coming home.

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Book your stay today, at Comfort Resort Blue Pacific!

bluepacificresort.com.au

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Jill Johansen, International and Domestic Travel Consultant at Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant. Photo supplied

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After almost three decades with Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant, International and Domestic Travel Consultant Jill Johansen still finds joy in helping clients bring their travel dreams to life.

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A lifelong fascination with travel first inspired Jill to enter the industry in 1970, where she applied for roles as both a travel consultant and ground hostess.

“I thought if I was unable to travel all the time, I should plan and bring clients’ dreams to life,” she said.

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Jill later joined Harvey World Travel, now Helloworld Travel, after being repeatedly encouraged by a former manager to come on board.

“He kept saying he had a uniform hanging behind the door for me whenever I decided to come and work for them,” she laughed.

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Over the years, Jill has witnessed enormous changes across the travel industry, but says the excitement of travel has never faded.

“There have been so many memorable moments throughout my career,” she said.

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“I never get tired of watching aircraft thundering down runways at airports and people watching. I always imagine where people are travelling to when you see all their happy faces.”

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Jill said trust, loyalty and personalised service continue to set Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant apart.

“We treasure customer and staff loyalty as a priority always,” she said.

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“Repeat business is everything and clients need to know that trust is everything.”

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Having travelled extensively herself, Jill lists Africa, Antarctica, Greece and Malta among her favourite destinations, while seeing polar bears in the wild remains firmly on her bucket list!

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Daneal Rokic, Travel Sales Consultant and Team Leader at Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant. Photos supplied

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After first joining Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant in 1993, Daneal Rokic is now celebrating more than 30 years in the travel industry.

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Starting out working Thursday nights and Saturday mornings at the Mt Pleasant office, Ms Rokic later secured a full-time role in 1996 and has remained part of the Helloworld team ever since.

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Her passion for travel first began as a teenager after being selected for Mackay City Council’s sister city exchange trip to Matsuura, Japan, in 1992.

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“That travel experience opened my eyes to a new world,” Ms Rokic said.

“I knew I wanted to explore the world, and the travel industry was the perfect platform.”

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Throughout her career, Ms Rokic has helped countless clients plan holidays around the globe while also creating unforgettable travel memories of her own.

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One experience that has stayed with her was completing the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in South America.

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“It was definitely the hardest thing I’ve ever done, and to get to the end of walking for four days to view the incredible site at sunrise was something I will never forget,” she said.

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Ms Rokic said the supportive team culture and family feel at Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant had played a major role in her long-standing career with the company.

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She said destinations including Japan, Vietnam, Thailand and New Zealand were currently among the most popular choices for travellers, and her hot travel tip? Air tags, air tags, air tags!

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Johanna Wood, Groups and Training Manager at Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant. Photo supplied

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Johanna Wood’s love of travel began at a young age, and nearly two decades later, that passion continues to shape her career as Groups and Training Manager at Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant.

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Having worked with the business for 19 years, Johanna joined Helloworld Travel, then Harvey World Travel, just two years after finishing school.

“I always knew I wanted to work in the travel industry,” she said.

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“I began working at Helloworld Travel just two years out of school and I have never looked back.”

One of Johanna’s favourite parts of the role is hosting group tours and travelling alongside clients on hosted journeys.

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“Being able to travel with our customers and share those experiences with them is one of my favourite things,” she enthused.

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Johanna said the agency’s locally owned and operated structure helped create a close-knit team culture and strong relationships with customers.

“It’s really special to have the owners of the business working alongside the team,” she said.

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“That allows us to build personal relationships with our customers and create a really supportive culture within the workplace.”

When it comes to current travel trends, Johanna said Japan remained one of the most sought-after destinations.

“I took my family there earlier this year and it has to be one of the most exciting places I’ve visited,” she said.

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Johanna also noted cruising, both river and ocean, continue to grow in popularity among travellers seeking unique experiences around the world!

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Stacey Brownsey, Manager of Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant. Photo supplied

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For Stacey Brownsey, travel has never been just a career; it has always been part of who she is.

Now Manager of Helloworld Travel, Stacey has spent almost 25 years helping Mackay travellers explore the world, after first entering the industry through a trainee position advertised in the Daily Mercury in 2001.

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Her passion for travel began long before that.

“I’ve loved travel from a very early age,” she said.

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“I started travelling internationally through sport when I was 15, and I also grew up listening to stories from my mum about living and working in Canada in the 1960s. Travel has always been a big part of my life; it’s something that really feels like it’s in my blood.”

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Over the years, Stacey has helped clients plan everything from family holidays and tailor-made European itineraries to cruises and once-in-a-lifetime adventures.

She said some of the most memorable moments in her career came during the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, when travel professionals worked around the clock to support stranded travellers as borders rapidly closed across the world.

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“There were nights where I’d wake up in the middle of the night taking calls from clients overseas while airline availability was disappearing before our eyes,” she said.

“Despite the pressure, we were able to help get our clients home safely. That level of care and commitment goes beyond what people expect, but it’s also what I love most about this industry — being able to genuinely help people when they need it most.”

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Stacey believes the business’s strong local foundation has played a major role in its success across the Mackay region.

“Being locally owned and operated has always been something really special about our business,” she said.

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“Over the years we’ve continued to evolve through innovation, training and industry changes, and I think the resilience of our team has been one of our greatest strengths.”

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She said travellers were increasingly seeking more meaningful and personalised experiences, with nature-based travel and smaller group journeys continuing to grow in popularity.

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“We’re seeing more people wanting unique, off-the-beaten-track destinations and experiences connected to wildlife and nature,” she said.

“Cruising has also become incredibly diverse now — whether people want a small, intimate ship or a large ocean liner, there’s really something for every style of traveller.”

Having travelled extensively herself, Stacey names Finland as one of her favourite destinations, while trekking to see gorillas in Rwanda remains high on her bucket list.

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Her areas of specialty include family travel to Japan, tailor-made European holidays, and customised Canada and USA itineraries.

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And after decades in the industry, her favourite travel tip remains wonderfully simple:

“Always travel with ear plugs,”  

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For more than four decades, the travel industry has evolved in remarkable ways; from handwritten tickets and printed brochures to instant online bookings and digital itineraries. Yet despite the rapid pace of change, one thing has remained constant: the value of trusted, local travel expertise.

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At Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant, that personal approach to travel has remained at the heart of the business through every era of change.

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The late 1980s and early 1990s marked a major turning point for Australian travellers. International holidays, once considered a luxury, became increasingly accessible as airfares grew more competitive and travel opportunities expanded. Families, couples and solo travellers began exploring the world in greater numbers, often relying on experienced travel agents to guide them through passports, visas and complex itineraries.

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During this time, travel planning was deeply personal. Clients would sit down face-to-face with their travel consultant, discussing dream destinations, budgets and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Trust and professional knowledge were central to every booking; values that continue to define Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant today.

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As the industry moved into the late 1990s and early 2000s, the arrival of the internet transformed how people researched and booked travel. Email replaced fax machines, online schedules became accessible and digital ticketing emerged, creating greater convenience for travellers. While technology streamlined many parts of the process, the role of experienced travel professionals became even more important; helping clients navigate airline changes, interpret information and create seamless travel experiences tailored to their individual needs.

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The following decades saw travel become increasingly experienced-driven. Travellers began seeking meaningful moments and personalised adventures rather than simply ticking destinations off a list. Social media inspired new journeys, while smartphones changed the way people planned, booked and shared their travels.

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With more choice came more complexity, and the importance of knowledgeable, local guidance only continued to grow.

More recently, global disruptions and changing travel requirements have highlighted just how valuable professional support can be. Travellers are now prioritising flexibility, reassurance and expert advice more than ever before. Throughout these changes, businesses like Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant have continued supporting clients every step of the way, providing clarity, advocacy and peace of mind when it matters most.

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Looking back across four decades, the story of travel is one of innovation, connection and unforgettable experiences. While technology and trends will continue to evolve, the heart of great travel planning remains unchanged: understanding people, listening to their goals and helping turn travel dreams into reality.

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As Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant celebrates its longstanding place within the region’s travel community, one thing is clear; trusted local advice and personalised service continue to matter more than ever.

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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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By Chelsea Ravizza

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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.

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“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.

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

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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.”

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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.

“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.

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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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Main Street Fire Brigade Photos supplied

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Today, we benefit from first-class emergency services such as fire and rescue - services that are easy to take for granted. Earlier last century, however, Proserpine residents had much less protection. That began to change seventy-five years ago with the arrival of the town’s first Chief Fire Officer.

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In the first half of the twentieth century, there were two major fires in Proserpine’s Main Street. The first occurred in February 1928 in Mrs Deicke’s shops with almost all buildings being gutted. A bucket brigade with water from tanks from adjoining businesses, and hoses from the Palace Hotel and Proserpine Butchery Co prevented further damage.

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In the 1940s, Proserpine still depended on rainwater tanks and wells. Pleas to remove grass and domestic rubbish were ignored. Another disaster was waiting to happen. Prompted by memories of the devastating 1928 fire, a public meeting was called for the purpose of taking steps to prevent and control fires in the town. However, it was reported that when the formation of a fire brigade was introduced, “nil expressed their willingness to join the voluntary fire brigade.”  

Eight months later, on July 13, 1946, the Proserpine Fire Brigade held its inaugural meeting with eight community members charged with lobbying government and organising the formation of an official fire brigade. Due to water shortages, their plans to buy a tank and trailer were delayed. The committee recessed and fire prevention rules were introduced. But these were not sufficient to avert another devastating fire.

At 1am on October 19, 1949 a second disaster occurred. With no official brigade or reticulated water, about 100 people, some in pyjamas, battled the blaze for two hours using buckets, boilers, basins and tubs. They smashed open rainwater tanks and coupled hoses to windmill tanks before finally bringing the fire under control at 3 am.

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Almost twelve months after this second calamity, in September 1950, common sense finally prevailed. Council advertised for a part time fire chief and land for a fire station and residence was purchased in Main Street. There was still no reticulated water so an 800-gallon tank mounted on a truck was purchased and supplemented by tanks belonging to local businesses and the Sugar Mill. An alarm siren was to be installed on a 30-foot pole at the CFO’s house.
 

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On 1 June 1951, Mr Chris Thieme, Proserpine’s first Chief Fire Officer arrived from Tully. In a short time, seven local auxiliary fire fighters signed up. Uniforms were to be supplied, and firefighters paid for attending fires. That year, the brigade bought its first fire truck, now on display at the Proserpine Historical Museum.

A temporary building was erected then three years later, in 1953, approval was granted for a permanent one-storey station in Main Street which was completed in 1954. Proserpine did not gain reticulated water until 1957 when the water tower was finished.

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The Proserpine Fire Brigade acquired a second truck in 1975 and still operates two vehicles today. The unit is staffed by twenty auxiliary firefighters, with the last permanent firefighter transferring to the Airlie centre in 2004/05.

The Proserpine Fire Brigade Board controlled the fire service until June 30, 1990, when the state government took over the running of all fire brigades. With the opening of a station in Airlie Beach in 1986, the board changed its name to the Whitsunday Fire Brigade Board.  

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The Main Street fire station served the district for more than six decades before closing in 2018 when the new Disaster and Emergency Centre opened in Hinschen Street.

Story and photo courtesy of Proserpine Historical Museum.

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For many of the artists featured in the inaugural exhibition, the opening represents a long-awaited opportunity to strengthen the visibility and sustainability of the arts in the Whitsundays.

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Creative Connections Whitsundays (CCW) is inviting the community to celebrate the official opening of the Community Gallery, the first dedicated community art gallery in the Whitsunday region.

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The Gallery will open at 6pm on Thursday 4^th June, featuring works from more than 20 regional artists across painting, sculpture, photography, mixed media, and contemporary practice.

The opening marks the beginning of a new creative chapter for the region, establishing a permanent space for exhibitions, workshops, events, and artistic connection in the heart of Proserpine.

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As a new cultural hub for the region, CCW's Community Gallery has been created to celebrate local artists and community creativity while providing a welcoming place to showcase local talent, foster connection, and grow the Whitsundays’ cultural life.

This represents an important step forward for the region’s creative community, creating a permanent home where artists can be seen, supported, and celebrated year-round.

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CCW has acknowledged the “generous support” of local sponsors, supporters, volunteers, and community partners whose contributions have helped bring the gallery project to life; naming Whitsunday Regional Council, Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm, Green Energy Technology, Sunbird Electrical, Filby’s Motors, and Bunnings Warehouse.

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The opening night will bring together artists, community members, business leaders, government representatives, and supporters to celebrate the launch of a new cultural space designed for the whole Whitsunday region.

The event is free and open to the public. Guests are encouraged to RSVP by Tuesday 2nd June at creativeconnectionswhitsunday.com

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What: Community Gallery Official Opening
When: 6:00pm–8:00pm, Thursday 4th June 2026
Where: 192 Main Street, Proserpine
RSVP:  by Tuesday 2nd June, creativeconnectionswhitsunday.com

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I am saddened to announce that this is my last week working as a journalist on-the-ground in the Whitsundays for Life Publishing. Next week I will return home to Melbourne. These decisions are not made easily. I have loved the region for its beauty, and the community has been so gracious and welcoming. This has been a wonderful opportunity that I certainly won’t forget.  

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At certain points in our life we have to make tough decisions that come with a lot of apprehension and doubt but ultimately are important for our wellbeing.  

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I would like to thank my fellow editorial colleagues– Jacob, Victoria, Chelsea and Hannah – all rockstar journalists who inspire me through their work ethic and literary talent. I would like to give praise and thanks to our new editorial team leader – Suzanna McLoughlin who I know is going to do wonderful things for Life Publishing.  

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Thank you to all staff at Life Publishing Group -- Trish, Trisha, Georgia, Taylor, Camilla, Ruandi, Tania, Sherie, Jess, Jack and Marc. Thank you to Bec and Douth for building such a brilliant business that continues to inspire the region. Above all, thank you to Rachael for being an incredible mentor and leader.  

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Although my stint at Life Publishing was not the longest – it is certainly an experience that I will hold close to my heart.  

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This week’s poem is from English literary icon Lord Byron. It is called ‘So We’ll Go No More a Roving.’  

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Poet’s Corner

So We’ll Go No More A Roving by Lord Byron

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So, we'll go no more a roving

   So late into the night,

Though the heart be still as loving,

   And the moon be still as bright.

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For the sword outwears its sheath,

   And the soul wears out the breast,

And the heart must pause to breathe,

   And love itself have rest.

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Though the night was made for loving,

   And the day returns too soon,

Yet we'll go no more a roving

   By the light of the moon.

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