Mackay is getting its first Annual Careers Expo, hoping to make the decisions of school leavers and career-changers a little easier.

Careersevent runs career expos throughout Australia and will be holding the Mackay Careers Expo at the Mackay Convention Centre on August 3, 2023.

The event is not just open to school students but parents wanting more information to help advise their children, as well as experienced workers considering upskilling for their current or next job, making a career change or wanting to transition into a new industry.

A record number of exhibitors will be featured at the expo, enabling visitors to speak with more than 120 highly qualified representatives from more than 85 organisations providing relevant, up-to-date knowledge in the education, training and employment sectors.

Exhibiting companies include universities from across Australia, student accommodation providers, Head Space, the Department Children, Youth Justice and Multicultural affairs, Mackay Regional Council, Glencore, Community Solutions, Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal and Defence Force Recruiting.

Employers and tertiary education institutions from industries such as information technology, biotechnology, aviation, early childhood education, hotel management, healthcare, hairdressing, creative media, performing arts and business education will all be present.

The community-based event will provide attendees with advice on how to apply for courses, the costs involved, financial support options and qualifications required.

“The current economic climate is forcing the community to be aware of the importance of gaining new skills or upgrading their existing skills,” said Event Organiser Hannah Mann.

In response to these conditions, a large number of exhibitors will provide details on current career and employment options, trainee and apprenticeship programs or options for adults to upskill and retrain in the workplace.

The Mackay Careers Expo is the one event you cannot afford to miss if you’re looking to take control of your future.

Admission to the expo is free.

For more information, visit careersevent.com and click on Mackay Careers Expo.

Make The Most Of Your Careers Expo

1. Plan your day in advance: Keep an eye out for a full list of exhibitors and highlight the one’s that interest you most.

2. Take your time chatting with stallholders: Make sure to visit the exhibitors high on your list and ask any burning questions you have – they’re there to help.

3. Consider something new: This is the perfect opportunity to discover pathways you may never have considered before, so be open to them.

4. Be inspired, learn and have fun!

WHAT: Mackay Careers Expo

WHERE: MECC

WHEN: Thursday, August 3 2023

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Love was in the air as the Mackay & District Senior Citizens’ hosted a romantic Valentine’s Dance. The event was filled with couples wearing stunning red and white outfits, moving to the beat of the music.

But that's not all! The next theme dance is just around the corner, and it's time to get your green on! The St. Patrick’s Dance will be held on the 18th March, and we're excited to see everyone decked out in their most fabulous green attire.

And the excitement doesn't stop there! This year, the Mackay & District Senior Citizens Association is celebrating its Golden Anniversary of 50 years, and what better way to celebrate than with a magnificent 50 Years Anniversary Ball in June! It's an event not to be missed, and to make the day even more memorable, a celebratory lunch will be held on the 29th June. Get ready to celebrate in style.

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Eight well-known Mackay identities will be lacing up their dancing shoes and taking to the stage as part of the Mackay Hospital Foundation’s newest fundraising initiative.

Dancing with Heart will take over the MECC on Friday, March 31 and will see some of Mackay’s biggest personalities, who aren’t necessarily known for their dancing, bust a move.

Taking the stage includes Cathy Sullivan, Alex Finlayson, Paul Manttan, Michelle Cross, Tegan Jones, Renae Kunst, Bing Guo and Kay Nyenuh.

The participants will be performing a thoughtfully choreographed dance by Dolly Louw of Fame Talent School before a judging panel chooses the winning dancer on the night.

There will also be a number of prizes including the People’s Choice Award.

The team at Mackay Hospital Foundation prides itself on its unique events and can’t wait for Mackay to be a part of this event and support its favourite dancer and our local hospitals.

To donate to the initiative or sponsor a dancer, visit dancing-with-heart.raisely.com.

WHAT: Dancing with Heart

WHERE: MECC

WHEN: Friday, March 31 from 6:30pm

TICKETS: $150 per person from themecc.com.au

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WORLD DAY OF PRAYER AUSTRALIA

On Friday the 3rd of March, millions of women around the globe will unite to mark the annual World Day of Prayer.

The World Day of Prayer is a collaborative, grassroots movement of Christian women from every continent who join together in informed prayer and prayerful action. Each year a different country is invited to highlight their cultures and traditions and share their hopes, joys and needs with the world. This year the country is Taiwan.  

In Mackay we are celebrating, with prayer and song at the Salvation Army Corps, Gregory Street, Mackay at 1O am on Friday 3rd March. Following the Service join us for morning tea and an opportunity to catch up with old friends and make new ones.

Anne Jennings

Mackay Unit of Australian Church Women

AMPLIFY INSPIRATION

Our children and youth need our support, guidance and love in order for them to grow and flourish into men and women who will stand for justice, love and truth.  

So how can you invest in the young people of today? On the 4th of March there is a non-denominational Christian conference for leaders working with children, youth and families called Amplify. We will gather to hear from experts, share our experiences and be sharpened in our thinking for the young people of today.  Please join us at the Mackay hub!

https://amplifyconference.com.au/

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Friday 24 February

CASA Monthly BBQ

Friday, 10:00am to 12:00pm

Head down for a snag and a yarn.

CASA - Community Accommodation & Support Agency Inc.

RADF Showcase and Networking Event

Friday, 5:00pm

The Regional Arts Development Fund Showcase and Networking Event is an opportunity to learn more about the Regional Arts Development Fund, meet the current RADF Committee Members and Arts Development team and meet the Central Queensland Regional Arts Services Network Officer, Wanda Bennett. If that's not enough, come along to meet other creatives! Connect ~ Create ~ Collaborate!

Jubilee Community Centre

Friday SUN.sets

Every Friday Evening From 6pm

Knock off drinks, lakeside dinner, good friends, and LIVE MUSIC.

Wake House Australia

Anette Worthington Live at the Seabreeze Hotel

Friday, 7:00pm to 10:00pm

Cap off your work week at the Seabreeze Hotel. Dance the night away with Anette Worthington performing from 7pm - 10pm.

Seabreeze Hotel

Crowned Ruckus presents an Alternative Evening In Mackay

Friday, 7:00pm

Bundaberg's Evergreen Aus and Exotic Potion Cookies are embarking on a mini QLD Regional Tour, playing Mackay with Systematic Machine and Yellowslip. Help christen a new original alternative venue in Mackay! Doors 7pm - Entry $20.

Ambassador Hotel

Saturday 25 February

Mackay Cutters Trial 3

Saturday, 3:00pm

Get around game day and cheer on the Cutters as they take on the Blackhawks and Central Queensland Capras! 3:00pm – Gates open. 4:00pm – BMD CUP. 6:00pm – Hostplus Cup.

BB Print Stadium

Saturday Live Music at Empire – Ronny Croker

Saturday, 9:00pm

For the Month of February and a half of March the Main Bar will be hosting Soloists - come and enjoy the immaculate vibes, drinks, music and company.

Empire Alternacade and Events

Sunday 26 February

Sunday Live Music – Leyon Milner Duo

Sunday, 2:00pm to 5:00pm

Music every Sunday from 2pm - 5pm. Head down to the Seabreeze Hotel this Sunday for some fresh tunes, delicious food, and ice-cold brews.

Seabreeze Hotel

Monday 27 February

Trivia Night

Every Monday, 6:30pm to 8:30pm

Trivia night on Mondays at Centro Restaurant. There's no excuse not to stretch the grey matter as it's free to play so come along with your mates or you can be put in a team. Each team can have 2-7 players. Registrations from 6:30pm, starts 7pm. Book your table to avoid disappointment, call 49 656 100. Terms & conditions apply.

Magpies Sporting Club

Tuesday 28 February

Musical Bingo Tuesdays

Every Tuesday, 6:00pm to 9:00pm

There’s only one thing better than bingo, and that’s Musical Bingo. Every Tuesday in the Bar from 7pm where you can show off your musical knowledge in Musical Bingo. Prizes will be on offer for winners each and every week so make sure you’re on the ball. Oh, and entry is free! Registration opens from 6pm, with all the action kicking off from 7pm. Music buff or not, make sure you clear your schedule each Tuesday evening for Musical Bingo at the Seabreeze Hotel. To book your table for Musical Bingo call the team on (07) 4955 1644.

Seabreeze Hotel

Wednesday 1 March

Teen Shed Mackay Teen Circle

Every Wednesday, 4:00pm to 5:30pm

Teen Circle is a place for all teens in the community to come together. It's a safe space for them to connect, heal & learn from each other. They can be seen, heard & understood with no judgement. It's a space to honour the uniqueness of each individual, everyone is equal. They will be able to speak from their hearts about things that trouble, annoy, frustrate them. This gathering will be held every Wednesday, all teenagers are welcome to attend. It is a free event, but attendees are asked to register for numbers.

Kutta Mulla Gorinna Special Assistance School

Mackay Farmers’ Market

Every Wednesday, 6:30am to 10:30am

The market is a showcase of our region’s amazing produce direct from the farmer.

Bluewater Quay

Sugar City Rock and Roll Mackay Club Wednesday Night Lessons

Every Wednesday, 7:00pm

Why not come along and learn to rock ‘n’ roll in a friendly and fun atmosphere with the Sugar City Rock ‘n’ Rollers Mackay Club? Previous experience is not required. Everyone learns at their own pace and, even better, the first lesson is free on your way to learning the four step style of rock ‘n’ roll. $5 for members and $8 for non-members after that. The club caters for social activities for club members with regular dances with live bands in attendance and away trips. For further enquiries call 0408 983 911.

58 Macalister St, Mackay

Thursday 2 March

Coffee Connection ~ Women Supporting Women

Thursday, 9:00am to 11:00am

Morning tea (gluten & diary fee) provided ~ cost $10 per person. Non-judgemental space, open conversations where anything goes! Learn more about supporting yourself holistically and become part of a community.

That Little Counselling Room Mackay

Mackay Riverside Market

Every Thursday, 3:00pm to 7:00pm

Come and meet your local growers, bakers and makers, chill on the lawn listening to some beautiful tunes and grab some delicious dinner and desert.

Bluewater Quay

Cocktails and Karaoke

Every Thursday, 3:00pm to 7:00pm

Come on down for a few cheeky cocktails and karaoke to your hearts content - Empire along with Karaoke Under the Stars have you covered!

Empire Alternacade and Events

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The official amalgamation of historic St Patrick’s College and Mercy College in 2023 has revived golden educational memories for old time residents of Mackay.

Local identity and decorated Sister of Mercy Denise Hinton took a trip down memory lane this week when she reflected on her days at St Patrick’s Convent High School – a boarding school for post-primary aged girls and secondary school students that opened in 1930.

The school was located in River Street – across the road from St Patrick’s Christian Brothers College that was founded the previous year.

Sister Denise attended the school from 1958 to 1961 after sitting for her Primary School scholarship exam during her final year at St Francis Xavier Catholic Primary School.

“Back in those days most of the Convent High students would ride their bikes to school - complete with hats, gloves and stockings,” recalled Denise.

“A few buses transported students from Marian and Sarina but the majority travelled to school by bike.

“The Sisters held a Retreat Day at the school on the first Sunday of each month and the boarders would have the option of going home or spending the weekend at a friend’s place.

During her time at the Convent High School, Denise attended the Sub Junior, Junior, Sub Senior and Senior classes.

“There were 70 students enrolled when I started at the school in 1958 which included 36 students in my Sub Junior class and by the time I graduated three years later the numbers had grown to 100,” revealed Denise.

“In my final year in 1961 there were only six students in the Seniors class which comprised of myself, Margaret Dixon, Myra Rodgers, Heather O’Rourke, Patricia Watson and Phillipa Bull,” she said.

“There were no Schoolies Week celebrations during those times of course so to mark the occasion we visited the Mackay Tourist Café in Victoria Street and treated ourselves to delicious waffles and ice cream and a milkshake,” Denise laughed.

A talented basketball/netball goal shooter in her youth, Denise represented Mackay at the 1960 Queensland Schools Championships in Townsville and remembers the team travelling north to the Carnival by train on a Friday June 10 night.

“It was during that same evening that a Fokker F27 Friendship aircraft crashed at Far Beach (Illawong) killing 29 people that included students from Rockhampton Boys Grammar School,” said Denise.

“The Mackay girls formed a guard of honour the following week at a special Memorial Service for those departed – such a terrible tragedy.’

Denise was a stalwart of the St Francis Xavier Netball Club and a prolific goal scorer with unerring accuracy – leading her teams to several premierships.

Her catch cry before shooting for goal was: “Hail Mary full of grace, put the ball in the right space.”

She also teamed up with good friend Margaret Dixon to capture the Mackay Schools tennis championship.

Annual School Picnic Days were usually held at Far Beach but in her final year Denise and colleagues persuaded principal Mother Mary John to stage the event at the original Mulherin Park near Mackay Harbour Beach.

“Are there plenty of trees offering shade at Mulherin Park?” enquired Mother Mary.

When the students arrived at the park they were shocked to learn that the trees were barely a foot high – and went home severely sunburnt.

“To make matters worse the girls had to front up to the School Speech Night that evening which proved an uncomfortable experience” Denise recalled.

Anzac Day Marches were also major events at the school.

Deportment specialist Mrs Frendo ran a tight ship and would remind students to “keep in step” in no uncertain manner.

“If a student lost a shoe or their skirt loosened during the march they had to keep moving – much to their dismay” Denise added.

After graduating, Denise helped run the office of her father’s Fruit Exchange business in River Street Mackay before entering the Rockhampton Sisters of Mercy in 1966.

She was professed in 1968 and this year chalks up 55 years of service as a Sister of Mercy.

Following her profession Sister Denise trained as a primary school teacher and taught at various locations including Bundaberg, Walkerston, Sarina, Rockhampton, Biloela and Barcaldine where she had various roles including teaching, part-time pastoral care, religious education co-ordinator and school board member/chaplain.  

During these years, Sister Denise recognised the need for a ministry to refugees and migrants. With the support of the Sisters of Mercy, Denise dedicated her time and gifts to many families from various ethnic backgrounds and she is well-known and respected within the Mackay community for her commitment to this work.

By Chris Karas

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When Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert got a table tennis bat in her hand, you couldn’t get it away from her.

Julieanne took on local player Emma Widdup and juniors Trent and Erin Day and Oliver Hamelink to try out one of the new tables at the Mackay Table Tennis Centre.

Championship standard tables, nets, scoring boards and barriers have been purchased through a successful application to the Gambling Community Benefit Fund, enhancing the centre’s standing as one of the best in Queensland.

“Of course once the bat was in Julieanne’s hand, a couple of games had to be played,” association president Janice Kent said.  

“We would like to thank the Member of Parliament for her interest in our club and our sport and encouragement to continue to develop our facility.”

Janice said obtaining grant funding was paramount in maintaining a well-equipped community asset.

“Mackay Table Tennis continues to encourage people of all ages and abilities to give the sport a go.  

“It is truly a sport that doesn’t discriminate against gender, age or ability and our table tennis community is continuing to grow.

“Mackay Table Tennis is a community sport with junior, senior and veteran numbers increasing all the time.  

“If you think you would like to join or even return to the sport, we would love to see you at our hall.”

Janice said that following the purchase of new tables, the club had tables it would like to donate back into the community.  

“Paying it forward is what community spirit is all about and even though we were successful in obtaining the grant and purchasing new equipment, others can also benefit.  

“Help us find new homes – if you know of a community centre, sporting club or a charitable organisation that you think would benefit from having one of these tables, please contact me 0420 251 622.”

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Julieanne Gilbert, right, had plenty of table tennis advice from players, from left Geoff Denman, Oliver Hamelink, Steven Whiting, Emma Widdup, Steve Mathieson, Trent and Erin Day, Donna Abbott and Janice Kent when she visited to inspect new tables provided through a government grant. Photos: Charlie Payne

Julieanne Gilbert takes on junior Oliver Hamelink, as players Erin Day, Emma Widdup, Janice Kent, Donna Abbott, Steve Mathieson, Trent Day, Steve Whiting and Geoff Denman watch the ball

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The Australian Idol journey has ended for the two Mackay singers representing the region this week as they return home after making it to the Top 24 round of the national television series.

Mackay locals Noah Cookson and Damien Agius were farewelled by audiences across the country after their final performances, much to the disappointment of Sugar City viewers on Sunday and Monday night.

Neither Mackay nor the singers were browbeaten, though – Cookson and Agius have both returned home with a fire in their bellies for becoming full-time musicians with the backing of what was an incredible experience.

“Idol was amazing – it was crazy,” 19-year-old Cookson said.

"When I made it through to the Top 24, it was a feeling of endless relief, but also nerves. I'm disappointed that it's over, but I finished on a good note, a good performance of the music I like to play. Getting to play with professional artists was an incredible experience and my parents are so proud.”

“I gave it my all and it was tricky, but I did my best and was happy with myself.”

Agius, a Moranbah coal miner, said, even during Idol, he had been doubting himself, and the experience had been “an incredible journey”.

“This isn’t going to be the end of my journey, it’s only the beginning,” he said.

"I felt okay with how I got through, the support I've received. It was my dream to win, but the journey I went on was unbelievable and the people I met were incredible. What Idol has taught me is that the industry is a brutal place, but that Australia loves country music.

“The comments I’ve been getting are unbelievable. That’s made me stronger even to have that level of support.”

Agius said he planned to write more originals, performing as much as he can locally before heading to the United States to capitalise on the American love for country music.

Cookson said it was now all about momentum: “To have that support from Mackay is so encouraging and uplifting for going forward in my career. I’ve been a cover artist with the odd original but the future holds for me an original music career – that’s where I want to be.”

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Mackay singers Damien Agius (pictured) and Noah Cookson have returned home after being eliminated from Australian Idol this week

Noah Cookson and Agius said this wasn’t the end of either of their journeys, but just the beginning

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From little things big things grow was a great way to describe the growth of Catherine McAuley College, Mackay, according to Principal Jim Ford.

“I think we would be quite unique in terms of our dramatic change in student and staff numbers for the start of the 2023 academic year,” Mr Ford said.

The Catholic co-educational College entered its second year of operation more than doubling student enrolments to over 260 and expanding to two Year levels offering Year 7 and Year 8 cohorts in 2023. The College also saw a 50 percent increase in staff levels including 10 new teachers this year.

“Our expansion plan will see the College add a new Year level each year until 2027 as we steadily build to a full secondary school for Years 7 to 12,” he added.

Mr Ford said a new wave of construction would soon commence to provide facilities for subsequent year levels. Continuing with the tradition of identifying College buildings by the letters of the Greek alphabet, construction of Blocks Kappa and Theta was due to commence in February/March.

“Kappa will see a major expansion of modern classroom facilities, Library, and covered student area. Theta block quite suitably will be a specialist facility in Information Technology and Design,” Mr Ford said.

Classes will commence using the new facilities as of the 2024 School Year.

“Most importantly, though, we are all about young people and their experience of school at Catherine McAuley College,” Mr Ford said.

“Everyone is new at the start of Grade 7. It’s an exciting and an anxious time for most with an array of uncertainties; ‘Will the teachers be nice? Will I make friends? Will the classwork be challenging? Will I know where to go? Will my parents embarrass me?’.”

The answer to all the above, Jim Ford said, is YES.

“High school is an exciting time full of new experiences, challenges, changes, and a much broader curriculum than students have experienced so far in their educational journey,” he said.

“Our dedicated and passionate teachers and staff at Catherine McAuley College are here to make it happen supporting students and their families every step of the way.

Catholic Education – Diocese of Rockhampton (CEDR) opened Catherine McAuley College in 2022 following extensive community consultation and planning in response to the need for increased enrolment capacity on Mackay’s southside and surrounds.

CEDR Diocesan Director Leesa Jeffcoat said the development of the new college was very pleasing.

“It’s extraordinary growth and very much in line with forecast demand from a growing number of families choosing a Catholic secondary education,” Miss Jeffcoat said.

“Catholic Education has enjoyed enormous support from the Mackay community for over a century and Catherine McAuley College has been a great addition to our existing Colleges in the region.”

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2023 Catherine McAuley College Year 7 and 8 students

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People come to see Gary Greenhill for one reason: To connect with the world.

For computer-literate generations who were either born with iPads in their hands or, perhaps, introduced to them in a professional sense, computers are simple. They are taken-for-granted tools; they broaden our world whilst miniaturising it – everything at your fingertips.

For older generations of Australians, that is not so; computers are alien, fragile technology. And that is where Gary comes in.

Gary volunteers his time at Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre once a week to help seniors with their tech, getting them up to speed on email, Facebook, text messaging, you name it.

In one-on-one lessons, Gary teaches the art of devices and software, and in turn brings the residents of the Whitsundays into a modern, expansive world. It might seem scary, but underneath all the wires, the world and its people are just the same as the old one – we all want to connect with other people.

“My interest in computers began when I helped install them at my ambulance station out west when I was a young paramedic,” Gary said.

"Teaching older Australians about computers is something I enjoy; I enjoy helping people like this. It gives me a sense of purpose, especially watching people go: 'That is fantastic' because it opens a whole world for them. It allows them to connect with their family, but it’s a social outing that they and I enjoy. We bond over this learning, social outing.”

Gary, who has experience professionally building websites and coding, is a certified computer whiz. He has been running computer literacy classes for almost two years at the local not-for-profit because he said "we cannot know enough people."

“I have met so many interesting people and helped them reconnect to the world,” Gary said.

“The most common thing people come in for is email, text, Facebook, messaging, using their phone. It is to keep in contact, to be social. To help them makes me feel excellent.”

Gary said he soon plans to begin group classes focused on internet scams, teaching anyone what to look out for and avoid.

For more information on Gary’s Computer Literacy Class, ring the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre.

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Gary Greenhill (R) teaches computer literacy classes at the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre one day a week to help people connect with the world

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The Whitsunday PCYC Get Set For Work program hosted its first cohort of graduates to celebrate the completion of the intensive employment and training assistance initiative on Friday last week.

The local community organisation hosted a ceremony to end the skills program which began on November 14, 2022, and congratulate its four debut alumni.

The state government project ran for 10 weeks, inviting 15- to 19-year-olds to attend and gain valuable skills and work experience, with the participants either no longer enrolled in schooling or struggling to find employment.

Program Coordinator Scott Lynch said he was extremely proud of his four graduates for their diligence throughout the Get Set For Work program, which has already paid off for one of his star pupils.

"I had the pleasure of witnessing firsthand how far these boys have come in such a short amount of time," Mr Lynch said.

“I am extremely proud of our graduate Levi Harrison, who has secured an apprenticeship. It is fair to say that these boys are set up and ready to go for the workforce.”

Over the length of the program, the graduates undertook several work placements at locales across the Whitsundays, including on Hamilton Island, with Bredl’s Wild Farm, Woolworths, volunteering at Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, Master Butchers Whitsunday, and many more.

Upon completion, three of the four graduates attained a Certificate II in Skills For Work and Vocational Pathways, as well as several other achievements and accreditations, including first aid certificates, white cards, completion of the Responsible Service of Alcohol Course, and the shipboard safety skillset course.

State Member for Whitsundays Amanda Camm, who attended on the day, applauded the graduates for their commitment to the program.

“It is not easy to get up every day and make a commitment,” The Member for Whitsundays said.

"Participating in something like this helps you grow, helps you change, and expands your thinking about things. These graduates can do anything they put their minds to and on behalf of our community, we are very proud of you. This is just the start."

The course is now opening for its next intake, which is planned to begin on April 17 and is hoping to field an even larger group, including from Proserpine with conversations for transport undergoing.

For more information, contact Scott Lynch at scott.lynch@pcyc.org.au

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Whitsunday PCYC Branch Manager and Police Sergeant Billy Li, Whitsunday Regional Councillor Jan Clifford, PCYC Youth Worker Declan Coull, graduates Bradley Basset, Reon Grant-Iramu, Levi Harrison, and Nicholas Wright, and Get Set for Work Program Coordinator Scott Lynch, and State Member for Whitsundays Amanda Camm at the Get Set For Work graduation

Declan Coull, Reon Grant-Iramu, and Scott Lynch

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Down at the Airlie Beach Men’s Shed, there is a steady flow of blokes coming and going, of projects in various degrees of completion and a hot jug always ready to fill a cup and fuel a conversation.

Since 2012, the local Men’s Shed has provided a safe place, a social network and a feeling of purpose for many men within our community.

There are over 1,200 Men’s Sheds in Australia, some of which began as early as the 1980s.

They first originated because there was a growing concern within society that men would not talk about their feelings, ask for help or take care of their health.

By providing a warm and welcoming place for men to connect in a positive and productive environment, there was a space for men to discuss important issues.

Locally, at the Airlie Beach branch, they have seen this firsthand in the open conversations the guys have about Prostate Cancer.

“More than half of our 22 members either have or have had Prostate Cancer,” said Airlie Beach Men’s Shed President Don Campbell.

It was in 2016 when Don received the diagnosis himself.

By completing his routine six monthly blood tests, which are recommended for anyone in his age bracket, the rapidly increasing PSA levels were flagged, and he was sent to a specialist.

When they conducted scans, the doctors found not only Prostate Cancer but also an issue with his Aorta which could have resulted in a heart attack, likely within the next month.

“The scan saved my life!” said Don.

With both medical conditions treated, Don's health was restored, and he now leads a full life once again.

He is now proud to be able to help others with their health problems and says the group often talk about matters that could potentially lead to life-saving decisions.

Of course, central to the Men’s Shed is also the numerous projects they work on.

Don has spent several months restoring an 18th-century sewing machine, his mate Coll has been working on a beautiful timber cabinet and Alan has just started fixing up a model of a classic sailing ship.

While projects are always encouraged, Don says there is no pressure to contribute, guys are more than welcome to simply come along

“You can do what you want down here,” he said.

“You don’t have to do any work, you can just come in and talk to people, have a coffee and socialise.”

Two men that learnt that firsthand are Peter Hallsy and Alan Bourton.

Both of them have only been coming along for a few weeks and laughingly say that their wives told them to get out of the house, but it is evident they are simply enjoying being in the calming presence of other men.

While most members are retired, there is no age barrier.

In fact, Andrew Patterson, who is 42 years old, regularly attends and says he enjoys getting guidance from the older men.

Airlie Men’s Shed is open every Tuesday and Thursday from 8am until lunchtime.

You simply need to attend three times and then pay your annual $25 membership to join.

There are plenty of tools if you want to get involved with a project of your own or help with one they have on the go.

Airlie Men’s Shed is located at 11 Salmon Street, Cannonvale.

They are currently looking for new members and are happy to consider opening on Saturdays if there was interest.

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Coll Pritchard, Peter Hallsy, Alan Corney, Don Campbell, Alan Bourton and PJ Tell from the Airlie Beach Men’s Shed. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

Coll Pritchard and his cabinet

Don Campbell and his restored sewing machine

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A full house crowded into the Creative Hub at 3 Little Birds Espresso on a quiet Tuesday morning in Airlie Beach in late January.

This assortment of local creatives were all looking to connect and become inspired by successful Mackay artist Margaret Burgess who preached the merits of collaboration, community and culture.

The event was organised and funded by CQ RASN, the Regional Arts Service Network and CQ University, who are dedicated to invigorating the local arts community and finding avenues to help artists progress.

This workshop is the latest in the series of sessions hosted by CQ RASN.

In November a Free Sponsorship Masterclass was held during the Airlie Beach Festival Weekend and attendees heard from well-respected Marketing Manager, Zoe Ottaway, who shared her wisdom on how to create strong partnerships with sponsors.

Then, in January, Margaret Burgess gave an inspiring, informal talk on uniting artists through a variety of community initiatives.

During the workshop, she enthralled guests with a range of case studies including the Artist Collective in Canelands, Plastic Boutique and the Great Barrier Reef Festival Immerse Sculpture Project.

Coming up in the next few months is a Grant Writing and Project Development workshop which aims to give aspiring artists the tools with which to seek funding for their creative endeavours.

As part of their initiative, CQ RASN is also producing an Arts and Culture Heritage Plan for the Whitsunday Regional Council.

By conducting a series of public consultations, they are producing a report which outlines the existing cultural activities and our regional challenges to create a roadmap to boost and strengthen the local arts community.

So far, the organisation has been thrilled with the response from all their activities and is excited to see a thriving arts community here in the Whitsundays.

“Through all consultations it was identified that the Arts Sector across the Whitsundays is dynamic, self-determined and for the most part, operating independently of Council,” said the report.

CQ RASN suggests that Airlie Beach could become the only Special Entertainment Precinct in Northern Australia if a Live Entertainment/Music Precinct was present.

The report also suggests more galleries and venues would add to the general cultural offering, giving a creative ‘home’ to both large and small events.

If you would like to add a comment to the report, go to Whitsunday Regional Council’s Your Say website to participate.

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Lara Russell and Wanda Bennett from CQ RASN organise a series of arts workshops in the Whitsundays. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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A three-hour film festival will showcase the “mysteries of the big blue” at Proserpine Entertainment Centre in early March.

The 10th anniversary Ocean Film Festival World Tour is bringing the salt spray, the crest of waves, and the mesmerising power of the ocean to Proserpine on March 11.

In a series of short films, comprised of “sublime footage taken above and below the water’s surface,”   the Film Festival will bring its celebration of divers, surfers, swimmers, and oceanographers who live for the sea to local audiences.

The Festival is brimming with captivating cinematography, awe-inspiring underwater scenes and fast-paced wave sequences, and inspiring and thought-provoking footage complete with touching interviews and insightful narrations.

Festival founder Jemima Robinson said the message of environmental conservation may be a universal one but it was all the more relevant to audiences in the Whitsundays.

“With a personal passion for film and all things ocean, I wanted the Ocean Film Festival World Tour to become an avenue for promoting ocean conservation and bringing people together to celebrate mother nature,” Ms Robinson said.

“We have done this through sharing unique stories by independent filmmakers from around the globe, reaching many exciting milestones, and now we set our sights towards the next 10 years of making an even greater impact”.

The two-and-a-half-hour program showcases several films from independent filmmakers worldwide and has been hosted annually in 14 countries over 10 years, touching countless lives in and out of the ocean with 325,670 attending it thus far.

Tickets can be purchased from $26 at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre website.

WHAT: Ocean Film Festival World Tour

WHEN: Saturday, March 11, 7.00pm to 10.00pm

WHERE: Proserpine Entertainment Centre

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French philosopher Albert Camus believed the underlying reality was this: life is absurd. Now, how does that relate to Steven Soderberg’s Magic Mike’s Last Dance? I would think that is manifest, self-evident, although I am more than happy to explain; we are in a world in which Academy Award Winning directors helm – not just once but thrice - films about male strippers.

I am not espousing that Magic Mike cannot exist – nay, all life is rife for the pilfering when it comes to artistic expression, including male strippers - I am purely stating the illogical, bizarre, incongruous fact of someone with Soderberg’s resume being attached to such a project on three occasions spanning 10 years.

And more: did we need three Magic Mike films? Were we asking for it? I suppose the answer must be yes. The buying power of middle-aged women who enjoy shirtless Channing Tatum (as the titular Magic Mike) and contrived, predictable love stories is a great and terrible thing as ancient as time itself.

Absurdity aside, where does it all leave us? How does Magic Mike’s denouement, his coda, match up to the rest? For one thing, it’s starkly different from its former outing – Magic Mike XXL – and the original. Each is somehow a different genre from the last in another nonsensical turn.

We start with Mike Lane as he takes to the stage once again, hoping for one last hurrah in London alongside a wealthy socialite (Salma Hayek as Maxandra) who lures him with an offer he can't refuse – think the Godfather in England but with pectoral-pumping dudes dancing every five minutes (No, it’s not really like that).

There are interesting riffs on power and wealth and we end up with Mike leading a show in London that’s more cabaret-infused-lap-dance than it is classic bar-top grinding. The change of scenery and genre does prove a shot in the arm for what could be a tired formula and that’s all you can really expect, surely – a bit of fun.

In fact: no one is going to see Magic Mike’s Last Dance looking for any meaning, any sort of philosophical bent or take-away.

That would be absurd.

Magic Mike’s Last Dance is playing at the Bowen Summergarden Cinema now.

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