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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A powerful dose of classic rock is set to hit Airlie Beach this June, with audiences invited to enjoy two free afternoon performances from one of Australia’s most respected Meatloaf tribute acts, “To Hell and Back – Australia’s Tribute to Meatloaf”.

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Known for its explosive live energy and remarkable musical accuracy, the show has earned a strong reputation nationwide for faithfully recreating the sound, drama and scale of Meatloaf’s iconic recordings. At the centre of the production is front man Gary, whose striking vocal similarity and commanding stage presence bring the spirit of Meatloaf vividly back to life on stage.

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Audiences can expect a full five-piece live band delivering the signature “wall of sound” that defined hits such as Paradise by the Dashboard Light, Two Out of Three Ain’t Bad, and You Took the Words Right Out of My Mouth. A standout feature of the show is a complete performance of the landmark album Bat Out of Hell played in its entirety, offering fans the chance to experience the record as a full live journey, alongside additional fan favourites from Meatloaf’s catalogue.

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“This is one of the most highly anticipated shows of the year,” said Airlie Beach Hotel Marketing and Entertainment Manager Mark Wilkins.  

“It has received rave reviews from all who attended last year and the bookings are already coming in thick and fast for a guaranteed booked out show.”

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Originally formed in 1999, To Hell and Back has evolved into a tightly honed touring production, with the current lineup performing together for the past 14 years. That long-standing collaboration is evident in the precision, energy and cohesion of the performance, which continues to draw enthusiastic crowds wherever it appears.

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“We’re over the moon to be playing in Airlie Beach again,” said manager and drummer Tom.  

“Everyone is really looking forward to catching up with the locals again.”

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Whether you are a lifelong Meatloaf fan or simply looking for a lively afternoon of free live entertainment, this is a rare opportunity to experience a high-calibre tribute show in an intimate coastal setting.

This is set to be one of the standout free live music events of the season, bringing classic rock energy to the heart of the Whitsundays.

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WHAT: To Hell and Back – Australia’s Tribute to Meatloaf, Free Shows
WHEN: Saturday 13th June & Sunday 14th June, 2:00pm – 5:30pm  
WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel

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June  

6 Whitsundays Songwriter Festival Songwriting Summit, 9.30am-4pm

6 Whitsundays Songwriter Festival Concert & Conversation, Whitsunday Sailing Club, 6pm - 8pm

9 Social Seniors, Proserpine Library, 9am

16 Collinsville Open Cut Free Event

18 Social Seniors, Bowen Library, 10am

23 Social Seniors, Proserpine Library, 9am

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Friday 5 June

Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm

Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy (4pm – 7pm)

KCs: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm)

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Saturday 6 June

Airlie Beach Hotel: Blues Brothers (2pm – 5.30pm)

Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)

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Sunday 7 June

Airlie Beach Hotel: Blues Brothers (2pm – 5.30pm)

Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm – 9.30pm)

KCs: Louisa Taylor (from 8pm)

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Monday 8 June

Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm – 7pm)

KCs: Andrew Baldino (from 8pm)

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Tuesday 9 June

Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm – 7pm)

KCs: Andrew Baldino (from 8pm)

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Wednesday 10 June

Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm – 7pm)

KCs: Daniel Sproule (from 8pm)

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Thursday 11 June

Airlie Beach: Aaron Saxon (6.30pm – 9.30pm)

Sorrento: Lucy Rose (4pm – 7pm)

KCs: Phoenix Revival (from 8pm)

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Iconic British rock band, Pink Floyd left an indelible mark on the world, inspiring generations with their ground-breaking soundscapes and thought-provoking lyrics. 2025 marks the diamond anniversary of Pink Floyd's inception, and to honour this milestone every era of Pink Floyd's illustrious career will be celebrated in grand style in a brand new concert production, Echoes of Pink Floyd.

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Echoes of Pink Floyd will take audiences on a mesmerising journey through six decades of Pink Floyd's unparalleled musical legacy. From the psychedelic sounds of the 1960s to the progressive rock masterpieces and stadium-shaking anthems of their latter years, this show will capture the true essence of Pink Floyd's evolution with precision and passion.

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"This show is a testament to the enduring impact of Pink Floyd's music," said lead guitarist Daniel Hunter. "For six decades, their innovative sound and boundary-pushing creativity have captivated audiences around the world. We're thrilled to bring dedicated Floyd fans together to celebrate this milestone anniversary."

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Echoes of Pink Floyd stands as Australia’s foremost tribute dedicated to honouring the legendary band's monumental legacy and has garnered widespread acclaim across the country since their inception in 2009.

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Echoes of Pink Floyd's line-up boasts seasoned musicians and ardent Pink Floyd enthusiasts: Daniel Hunter (lead guitar), Jason Miller (drums and vocals), Paul Bindig (keyboards), Mark MacNab (rhythm and acoustic guitar), Matt Goodluck (vocals), Will Byrne (Bass and vocals), , Daniel Modica (keyboard and saxophone) and Bree Gregory, Rossella Fanelli and Montana Sharp (Backing Vocals).

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Since embarking on national tours in 2014, their lovingly-crafted performances have captivated audiences nationwide, drawing praise such as "masterful," “absolute genius,” “spine-tingling,” and "absolutely the best live musical trip any Floyd fan can go on," with audiences likening their performance to that of the original band.

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Don't miss your chance to be part of history as Echoes of Pink Floyd celebrate 60 years of Pink Floyd in style.

WHAT: Echoes of Pink Floyd

WHERE: Proserpine Entertainment Centre

WHEN: Friday 26^th June

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One of these beautiful, cool, pink-skied evenings, why not head to KC’s Bar & Grill for a chargrilled steak and a cold beer, soundtracked by some of the best live music Airlie has to offer.  

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As Airlie Beach’s original steakhouse, bourbon bar and live music venue, KC’s has built a reputation for serving premium-quality steaks cooked and prepared to perfection every time. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion, catching up with friends or simply treating yourself to a great meal, KC’s is the place to go.

The secret behind their exceptional steaks starts with the beef itself. KC’s exclusively serves Riverina Black Angus, renowned for its rich flavour and superior quality. Try their 28-day dry-aged steak; the process enhances both tenderness and taste, delivering an experience that is second to none.

Guests can choose from an impressive range of dry-aged steaks, with cuts ranging from 300g to a generous 650g. Adding to the experience, all steaks are displayed for diners to view before making their selection, allowing guests to choose the perfect cut to suit their appetite.

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One of the standout favourites on the menu is the seasoned Picanha steak, loved for its flavour and signature tenderness. Every steak is served with your choice of house-made sauce and sides.

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Add in a quality bourbon selection, live music and a welcoming atmosphere, and it’s easy to see why KC’s Bar & Grill remains one of Airlie Beach’s most popular dining destinations- visit any evening of the week, with live music every night from 8pm.  

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Jubilee Tavern created a ginormous Meat Tray Raffle to celebrate their renovation, with proceeds going to Whitsunday Suicide Prevention.

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Last weekend Jubilee Tavern was a pub with a purpose hosting Airlie Beach’s Biggest Meat Tray Raffle, with all proceeds being donated to Whitsunday Suicide Prevention.

What started as a classic Aussie pub raffle to promote the newly renovated pub grew into something much bigger as the pub set their sights on creating what could be Australia’s biggest meat tray, in tandem with Master Butchers, Stuart Drive.  

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In the end, the tray was so impressive it had to be transported around the venue on a pallet on a forklift.

The tray included over $600 worth of meat, tickets to the Airlie Beach Festival of Music, and more than $300 in food and beverage vouchers. 

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Behind the fun was a cause that really matters to the local community. Suicide is something that affects families, friends, workplaces and communities across Australia, particularly in regional areas. The venue therefore decided to use this event to bring people together, raise funds, and start positive conversations around mental health support.

"We were absolutely blown away by the support from the Airlie Beach community,” said Senior Venue Manager Ellie Goulding.

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“What started as a fun idea to create the biggest meat tray raffle we've ever seen quickly became something much more meaningful, with locals, businesses and visitors all getting behind an important cause.  

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“The atmosphere on the day was incredible, and seeing so many people come together to support Whitsunday Suicide Prevention was really special. Community is at the heart of what we do at Jubilee Tavern, and we're proud to have raised over $4k and awareness for an organisation that does such important work in our area."  

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Photos supplied.

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As the winter season settles across the Whitsundays, the Airlie Beach Hotel is inviting locals and visitors alike to take refuge in warm hospitality, hearty meals, and sweeping ocean views that remain among the most iconic in Queensland.

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This winter’s menu is designed to comfort and satisfy, showcasing classic dishes with a coastal twist. Slow-braised lamb shanks arrive tender and rich, paired with seasoned vegetables and creamy mash that speaks to traditional winter cooking at its best. The seafood curry offers a distinctly Whitsundays experience, combining fresh seasonal seafood with a fragrant house-made curry sauce, served alongside steamed rice, coriander, grilled lime, and crisp pappadum. For those seeking indulgence, the fettuccine carbonara delivers with chicken, house-smoked bacon, mushrooms, shallots, double cream, and parmesan, bringing depth and warmth in every bite. A rotating roast of the day, served with Yorkshire pudding, roast vegetables, and gravy, continues the long-standing tradition of comforting Sunday-style dining throughout the week.

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Beyond the plate, the venue remains a central gathering point for the Airlie Beach community. Regular live music brings energy to weekends, while the sports bar screens major events including UFC, State of Origin, and international football, creating a lively atmosphere year-round. More than a dining spot, it functions as a social hub where locals and travellers converge.

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With its combination of seasonal dining, entertainment, and waterfront ambience, Airlie Beach Hotel continues to define winter in the Whitsundays as both welcoming and distinctly memorable.

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Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi

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More than 50 local tourism operators and industry members headed out to Dingo Beach last week for a Tourism Whitsundays networking event. The regular evenings serve as chance for local businesses to catch up, hear the latest news and talk all things tourism.

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Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth took the room through a packed industry update, covering the exciting new Zhik partnership, the Reforest program, their major upcoming campaign and the latest on Hook Island development. Mayor Ry Collins and Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP also spoke.

The event was linked to Queensland Small Business Month, and was supported by the Queensland Government.

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A spokesperson shared “a huge thank you to Gordy and the team at Dingo Beach Hotel for having us, laying on a great spread and making everyone feel so welcome. Thanks also to Whitsunday Transit for getting everyone there and back safely.”

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See all the photos here: https://www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/whitsundays-tourism-industry-gathers-at-dingo-beach

Whitsunday seniors proudly showcase their handmade textile artworks and memory books created through the Social Seniors Whitsundays Stitch in Time workshop series. Photo source: Facebook

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Creativity, connection and storytelling will take centre stage next month as Whitsunday seniors showcase a year’s worth of heartfelt textile artworks in a special community exhibition at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre.

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The exhibition, titled Stitch in Time, is the culmination of a series of creative workshops delivered through the Social Seniors Whitsundays project, an initiative of Whitsunday Regional Libraries aimed at reducing social isolation and encouraging community connection among older residents.

Over the past 12 months, seniors from across the region have worked alongside local artists to create unique textile-based memory books and artworks inspired by important moments and personal stories from their lives.

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The collection features a diverse range of artistic techniques and formats, including hand-woven textiles, needle-felted storytelling pieces and imaginative hand-printed memory books, each reflecting the personality and experiences of its creator.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins praised the program for the positive impact it is having within the community.

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“It’s all about combatting social isolation within our senior community,” Mayor Collins said.

“The Social Seniors Whitsundays project and the Stitch in Time workshop series are offering our seniors the chance to share their stories, create community and become more socially active.”

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The free exhibition will provide visitors with the opportunity to meet the artists behind the works while enjoying light refreshments and exploring the deeply personal pieces on display.

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Organisers hope the exhibition not only celebrates creativity, but also highlights the importance of connection, inclusion and lifelong learning within the Whitsunday community.

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The Stitch in Time exhibition will be held on 12th June at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre and is open to all members of the public.

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Friday 29^th May

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Opening Of The River Reimagined project  

10am

Mackay’s River Reimagined project will be officially opened on Friday 29th May 2026 from 10am–11am at Bluewater Trail, across from the old Telstra building on River Street. The free community event invites the public to hear the story behind the installation, alongside a special performance by the Unheard Voices Collective presenting their original river-inspired song. All are welcome to attend and celebrate the new work along the river. For those unable to attend, a free public art walk and artist talk will follow on 12thJune.

Bluewater Trail, across from the old Telstra building on River Street

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Saturday 30^th May

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River of Life Community Festival  

From 10am

Mackay’s waterfront will come alive on 30th May 2026 for the River of Life Community Festival, a free all-day celebration running across multiple stages from 10am through to late evening. From youth performances and live music to market stalls, food vendors and a lively beer garden, there’s something for every age and taste. With free children’s activities and a packed entertainment line-up, it’s a perfect chance to gather, explore and enjoy the heart of the community together.

Blue Water Quay  

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Tuesday 2^nd June

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Mackay Disability Expo  

9am

The Mackay Disability Expo 2026 is a free, inclusive community event offering a valuable opportunity for people with disability, carers, families and support networks to explore a wide range of products, services, technology, aids and equipment available across the region. Held on Tuesday 2nd June 2026 from 9:00am–12:00pm at the Big Shed, Mackay Showgrounds, the event is fully accessible and welcoming. Visitors can connect directly with service providers, discover support options, and access information designed to enhance independence, wellbeing and community participation.  

Mackay Showgrounds  

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Puppets in the Park  

9.30am

Families in Mackay’s Northern Beaches are invited to enjoy a relaxed morning at Puppets in the Park on Tuesday 2nd June at Seaview Park, Bucasia Esplanade, running 9:30am–11:30am. This free community wellbeing event features wooden lawn games, sand play and a 10am Wild Puppets show, A Pirate Adventure. Bring a picnic rug, snacks, water and sunscreen for a fun, easy morning outdoors. A small $3 family donation is welcomed to support future community events.

Seaview Park, Bucasia Esplanade

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At The Pregnancy, Birth & Beyond Expo Mackay

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The MECC is to be transformed into a warm, enlightening space on the morning of the 14th of June, welcoming parents, parents-to-be, and their support networks to the Pregnancy, Birth & Beyond Expo - a morning designed for anyone in the early stages of family life.  

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“Whether you’re pregnant, planning, newly postpartum or raising little ones… this is for you,” organisers shared. 

“Mackay, this is your event.”

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The expo will run from 9am-1pm and will be attended by over 40 local exhibitors, delivering informative, expert-led workshops, resources and advice to educate, empower, and connect families during one of the most important stages of life. 

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The event was envisioned to showcase evidence-based services, products, and education that support families from conception through pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and beyond.

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Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with exhibitors, learn about services and business, and meet with local experts in a welcoming, family-friendly environment.

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Any little ones can be kept busy by the soft play area, whilst the grown-ups connect, learn and feel supported. 

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Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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The Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce hosted the official launch of “Pizza for a Purpose” at Laffos Bar & Pizzeria during its Chamber B2B Brews event on Tuesday, 26^th May, where every large pizza sold in June will support Grapevine Group’s suicide prevention SAFE Talk training across the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday regions.

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See the rest of the photos here: https://www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/a-slice-of-support-for-local-mental-health-initiatives

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As the wedding day approaches, planning can bring both excitement and pressure, but it also offers couples a chance to prioritise wellbeing and step into the celebration feeling energised, confident and naturally radiant.

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A strong glow-up starts with nutrition. Preparing meals together and focusing on fresh, nutrient-rich foods helps support skin health and energy. Key choices include salmon, avocado and berries, alongside plenty of water for hydration and gut-friendly foods like kimchi and kombucha for added vitality.

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Movement is equally important. Couples’ workouts such as yoga, resistance training or HIIT can reduce stress, improve fitness and strengthen connection during the busy lead-up.

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Simple, consistent beauty routines also make a difference, including cleansing, exfoliating and moisturising, while early skincare planning and grooming help refine the final look.

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Above all, shared self-care, from spa days to quiet at-home rituals, help couples reset and reconnect.

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Rather than a one-day transformation, the real benefit lies in building small, sustainable habits that support how couples feel throughout the journey to the altar and beyond.

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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 Rook and Katina Griffiths, 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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