For the month of May, the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens are celebrating their birthday.

On May 24, 2003, the Mackay botanic gardens officially opened, marking a goal accomplished of the Mackay Association.

Since then, the Botanic Gardens have gone through stages of redevelopment and redesign including constructing new gardens, permanent wetland, to highlight the various water plants, and a kids play garden in 2006, and restoring and rehabilitating frost-damaged and drowned plants in 2007 and 2008.

In order to celebrate the gardens 20th birthday, the Botanic Gardens will be holding a series of events for the community.

Every Friday through May, and June 2, visitors can take part in a free guided walk, learning about the gardens and features different plants and aspects of the grounds.

On May 6, the gardens are hosting a daisy planting day, creating a daisy meadow on the lagoon banks.

There will be composting workshops of Saturday May 20, to educate participates on worms, composting and gardening, adding nutrients to home gardens. There is also the chance to win a worm farm.

For children, on Saturday, May 27, join an insect hotel workshop, to learn about native bees and other insects that help gardens, and build an insect hotel to attract insects into gardens.

For plant lovers, there will be a plant sale, on Saturday June 3, of native plants, grown by Native Plants Queensland – Society for Growing Australian Plants Mackay branch.

No matter how much or how little of a plant and garden enthusiast, there is something for everyone. Visit mackayregionalbotanicgardens.com.au for more information, or how to register to events.

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Join the Mackay Botanic Gardens as they celebrate 20 years

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The world is their oyster for a group which visited the Sarina Arts and Crafts Centre.

The World Café group enjoyed a morning tea before viewing the centre’s crafts.

It is a free culture-sharing group which meets every Tuesday at 4 George Street, Mackay (the Annex) between February and November from 10 am to 12.30 pm.

Activities include cooking, art and craft, conversational games, small projects, workshops, information sessions, culture and conversations and local excursions.

For more information phone (07) 4957 7222.

Contributed by Charlie Payne

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World Café group members from left Kaye Humphreys, Mary Gardner, Gail Ruse, Raelene Cant, Ernie Roh, Edyta Konopka, Raph Maglente, Svan Stephenson, Kamlawati Singh, Maedel Maglente, Ruth Bell, Kitty Yuen, Rydell Hansen and Maureen Solager at the Sarina Arts and Crafts Centre. Joining them for morning tea were Arts and Crafts members Jenny Costello and Marg Hinrichs, at back right. Photo credit: Charlie Payne

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Locals and cruising yachties are invited to enjoy a packed calendar of social events at Coral Sea Marina thanks to their unique edu-tourism workshops and experiences that are free for both customers and the broader community to enjoy.

The first in the series, Cruising the Whitsundays, is due to take place tomorrow at the marina’s Lookout Lounge.

All are welcome to attend this free event featuring presentations from guest speakers who will be shining a light on what to expect when out on the water this season.

Guest speakers include Master Reef Guide Crystal Lacey, on behalf of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, Fiona Broadbent from Queensland Parks and Wildlife, the Whitsunday’s own local sailing guru, Sharon Smallwood, to share her hidden Whitsundays gems, and Olivia Brodhurst on behalf of the Whitsundays Whale Heritage Committee.

Attendees will learn about the history of the islands, whale migration, the Eye on the Reef, newly opened island trails, top spots to visit and local sailing tips.

There are several other events coming up at the marina this winter.

Mainstay Sailing and Volunteer Marine Rescue Whitsundays host the “Better Boating” series of free maritime training which provide the perfect opportunity for attendees to brush up on their boating skills or learn something new in a relaxed and informal environment.

In addition, the Coral Sea Academy will host monthly Art Classes, multiple Women in Boating networking and training opportunities, as well as environmental information workshops on the Great Barrier Reef and conservation volunteer opportunities.

WHAT: Cruising the Whitsundays

WHEN: Saturday, May 20 from 10am

WHERE: Coral Sea Resort, Lookout Lunch

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This world-wide sell-out production by Circa, a front runner in performing arts and acrobatic illusions, is coming to the Proserpine Entertainment Centre (PEC) this Saturday, May 20.

On by Circa is the newest creation for the powerful acrobatic and circus company, expanding their repertoire to include a hauntingly beautiful tale of a chance encounter, and an intimate touch for eight strangers.

Taking place in an apartment block courtyard, On by Circa explores an impossible connection for these eight strangers of the love, loss, and longing of a shared existence.

The audience is pulled through the performance with powerful acrobatic skill and beautiful light show which is timed perfectly with elegant and touching music.

Creator of On by Circa, Yaron Lifschitz, depicts the beauty of human connection, the delicate nature and intricacies of the performing arts and the circus craft, in a powerful display of human strength and ability.

Since 2004, Circa has been dazzling audiences with their perfect craft, becoming the leader in circus performing arts and acrobatics.

Circa has travelled to 40 different countries, performed to over 1.5 million people, with numerous sell-out productions.

Circa productions always contain a massive range of acrobatic and circus acts, with performances including large scale opera, fantastical choreography, and beautiful instrumentals.  

On by Circa will be at the PEC for one night only. This is not a show to miss.

WHAT: On By Circa

WHERE: Proserpine Entertainment Centre

WHEN: Saturday, 20 May 6.30pm

TICKETS: proserpineentertainmentcentre.com.au

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An extroverted Australian swimming and diving champion of the early 1900s, Annette Kellerman raised many an eyebrow with her exploits in world swimming circles and for her risqué appearances in films depicting her as a mermaid.

Born in 1887 in Sydney, as a child she suffered from rickets and had to wear calipers to assist her to walk until it was suggested she take up swimming. This not only fixed her problem but led to her being declared a perfect physical specimen. Thereafter, she made a career of swimming and became quite a celebrity in Australia, America, England and Europe where she travelled widely, giving swimming and underwater ballet displays, diving exhibitions and lecturing on physical development. She was the first woman to attempt (unsuccessfully) a crossing of the English Channel and completed marathon swims in the rivers Yarra, Thames and Seine.

Ultimately, she attracted the attention of Hollywood and appeared as a mermaid in two silent films, “Neptune’s Daughter” (1914) and “Daughter of the Gods” (1916); films which scandalised some because she appeared topless though long hair was appropriately draped to preserve a degree of decency. In 1907, she was arrested in Boston (US) for wearing a ‘revealing’ swim-suit in days when women wore neck to ankle bathers.  

During those heady days, she married American film agent, Jimmy Sullivan. Contrary to the usual Hollywood culture, the marriage was lasting - until Annette’s death in 1975 at Labrador, Gold Coast.

Readers might now be wondering just why this story belongs in the Whitsunday history section.

The point is that nowhere, in all the publicity about her, is there any mention of the fact that Annette Kellerman graced Whitsunday waters with her presence for nine months in 1933/4.

In August 1933, Annette and her husband came to Lindeman Island which they used as a base while making a movie about coral with Annette swimming among it as a mermaid, complete with fish-tail. Much of their time was spent camping on adjoining islands such as Cole, Maher and Seaforth. While on Cole Island in August 1933, a party from HMAS “Moresby” landed there to make survey sketches. This must have been quite a treat for a ship-load of virile sailors.

Originally planning to stay for only three months, unfavorable weather delayed filming and extended the stopover. Annette’s sister, Marcelle, was married to Frederick Charles Wooster who began a small resort on Newry Island in those years. Annette and her husband spent time there in a hut built for the purpose, the foundation of which still exists today.

During her stay at Lindeman, Miss Kellerman entertained guests, particularly over the Christmas holidays of 1933. She organised fancy-dress balls on Christmas and New Year’s days as well as water sports and other entertainment.  She had a diving tower of rough bush timber built off the beach to give displays and encouraged visitors to do likewise. At the time, the couple were camped on Seaforth Island and guests on Lindeman Island were invited there for a ‘jazzarino’ as Annette called it. She was ‘the life of the party’ - her presence was quite an event for those staying on the island.

In April 1934, the couple left for Europe after a farewell trip among the islands in the “Cheerio”, a tourist launch owned and operated then by local identity, Bruce Jamieson.  

Such was Annette’s fame that, in the 1950s, Hollywood produced a film of her life, “Million Dollar Mermaid”.  

Thus, our island area can notch up another item of fame in its historical records.

Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum and thanks to the late Ray Blackwood.

Caption: Annette Kellerman was a famous actress and swimmer. Photo supplied

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The Queensland Country Women’s Association (QCWA) of Proserpine is celebrating 100 years this July and, to coincide with their big centenary, they are hosting one of their famous Devonshire Teas in August.

The passionate group of homebakers and conversation makers are looking forward to offering freshly baked scones to their guests and serving steaming pots of tea using their colourful teapot collection.

“Grab your buddy, get a group together and start a "sconversation" at our

Devonshire Tea morning!” said QCWA Proserpine Secretary, Kerrie Southee.

“We’ve got some beautiful tea pots that we’ve collected over the years and of course the scones are all home baked.”

While Kerrie is thrilled the QCWA Proserpine is celebrating 100 years this year, she is also eager to use this important milestone to invigorate the group and encourage new members.

“We need your support to keep going for another 100 years!” she explains.

“Without new members the whole thing would fail and that would be terrible.”

Everyone is welcome to come along to the Morning Tea, which is due to be held at the QCWA Hall, 4 Faust Street, Proserpine on Friday, August 11.

Guests can either drop in and grab a takeaway on the day or sit down and enjoy the ‘sconversation’.

WHAT: Scone Day: Devonshire Tea Morning

WHERE: QCWA Hall Proserpine

WHEN: Friday, August 11

TIME: 9.30am to 11.30am

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Join the ‘sconversation’ this August

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Set to the backdrop of a beautiful Autumn Day, the St Catherine’s Catholic College Under 8s Day was a massive success.

There was face painting, cookie decorating, a teddy hospital, drone flying, local firefighters and police officers, plus ice cream to round out the day.

A day dedicated to children under eight-years-old in the community, everyone was welcome to the junior campus playground and many senior students took the helm at various activities and games that entertained the younger ones.

Photo credit: Bronte Hodge

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Legends Elvis and Olivia Newton-John to Perform at Airlie Beach Hotel

Over two days of powerful music, the Airlie Beach Hotel is bringing two massive powerhouses to the Whitsundays.

This tribute show is unlike any other, with world class act Anita Spring as Dame Olivia Newton-John coming to Airlie Beach for the first time ever and performing alongside Brendon Chase as Elvis Presley.

The pair will each be guests to the other’s headline.

Brendon Chase as Elvis Presley is up first, with special guest appearance, Anita Spring’s Olivia Newton John, on Saturday, May 27.

Audiences can’t help but fall in love with the magic of the performance, of the ‘jailhouse rock’ and the ‘burning love’ that is Elvis.

You will ‘always be on my mind’ with powerful vocals and expressive and extravagant costuming.

This Elvis tribute is an authentic show delivering the best of Australian talent, with Brendon himself being awarded the Best Elvis Tribute Artist in multiple competitions.

His enigmatic show will shine even further with the special appearance of Olivia Newton-John and her powerful vocals and fantastic stage presence.

“Elvis never sang on stage with anyone else because Col Parker didn't think the fans wanted it,” Brendon said.

“However, in my opinion, the concept is brilliant.

“Who better to sing with than one of Australia's most well-known and talented artists?

“It also helps that Anita, who performs Oliva's Tribute, is one of the best in the business.”

Next up, is Anita Spring, as Olivia Newton-John, with special guest Elvis making an appearance.

Anita pays homage to the star, in her Forever Olivia show, performing at the Airlie Beach Hotel on Sunday, May 28.

Anita brings her all, performing all of Olivia’s biggest hits, from ‘Physical’ to ‘I Honestly Love You’.

Her seasoned and powerful country music vocals lend themselves well to the star’s hits, reminiscing and remembering Olivia in a touching and beautiful tribute performance that all Olivia Newton-John fans will appreciate.

She will leave audiences hopelessly devoted and suspended in time.

"The audience should come with their voices ready to be exercised!” Anita said.

“They will be singing along from the very start to so many classic songs we have all come to love over many decades.

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Worldwide headliners in Airlie Beach together for the first time

Elvis Presly and Olivia Newton-John will be appearing on the Airlie Beach Hotel stage

Anita Spring as Dame Olivia Newton-John performing in Airlie Beach for the first time

Finally returning to their own franchise after six years, Guardians of the Galaxy Volume 3 is stunning audiences with beautiful CGI and touching storylines.

Following the rag-tag team of mercenaries that protect the galaxy, Volume 3 primarily showcases the band’s smallest team member, Rocket, voiced by Bradley Cooper, a raccoon with a questionable moral outlook and keen obsession with prosthetic limbs, and his unfortunate backstory.

Volume 3 introduces new intergalactic villain named Adam Warlock, played by Will Poulter, who is tasked to retrieve Rocket for a mad scientist, who is hell-bent on recapturing his most successful experiment.

The film also revives loved character Gamora, played by Zoe Saldana, who was sacrificed in 2018 film Avengers: Infinity War so that Thanos (Josh Brolin) could gather another Infinity Stone.

Filled with heart and heartache, audiences are introduced to Rocket’s childhood family, an otter with prosthetic arms named Lylla, a walrus with wheels, Teefs, and a rabbit with multiple mechanical arms called Floor, in a series of short flashbacks.

Surprisingly dark themes are counterbalanced with light-hearted bickering and touching family moments, which only pull the characters together as a family.

The actors have embodied their characters once again, with Dave Bautista, playing Drax, and Pom Klementieff’s, Mantis, chemistry a highlight throughout the film.

Also, Zoe Saldana’s ability to completely reinvent Gamora following the events of Avengers: Infinity War.

One standout scene that comes to mind is when Groot, the team’s walking tree, speaks and the group are finally able to understand what he has been saying.

Director James Gunn has proven himself an inspired director, bringing the audiences to tears at multiple stages in the film, and reaffirming the loveable nature of these interesting characters.

At two and a half hours, this is a heart wrenching conclusion to the trilogy, and the character interactions will be missed on the big screen.

Guardians of the Galaxy Volume 3 (PG 13+) is currently showing at the Bowen Cinema.

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Queensland’s Chamber Orchestra is embarking on a tour of the state and their show – Camerata – will be showcased at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre later this month.

Camerata in Concert will feature a joyous program featuring works by Dvorak, Vivaldi and more, featuring Camerata’s Rory Smith as cello soloist, and a brand-new composition by Camerata’s 2023 Emerging Composer-in-Residence, Ray Lin in a performance that the whole family will enjoy.

Ray Lin’s piece is an evocative work that was inspired by his recent trip exploring the Whitsundays and he looks forward to playing it in the region for the first time.

While on tour, the orchestra will connect with the community through many avenues such as workshops with schools and local musicians, performing specialised programs for kindergarten children, and presenting concerts for aged care and respite care residents.

Camerata is a two-time Helpmann Award nominated ensemble and performs entirely without a conductor.

Known for innovative and adventurous programming and thriving on collaborations with artists across a range of artforms, the performance empowers artists, inspires audiences, and enriches communities through music.

The regional tour will also head to Ingham and Mossman, before finishing up with their debut at the Sunshine Coast Chamber Music Festival at Buderim Memorial Hall.

WHAT: Camerata – Queensland’s Chamber Orchestra

WHERE: Proserpine Entertainment Centre

WHEN: Wednesday, May 31 from 6.30pm

TICKETS: camerata.net.au

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Camerata in Concert will be performing at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre later this month. Photo supplied

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Star Wars fans had two reasons to celebrate last week, with the launch of Mackay’s newest arcade, bar and pop culture hangout, Arcadia Bar, falling on Star Wars Day.

Arcadia Bar opened to the public last Friday, May 5 complete with themed drinks, games, and food.

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Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

Renowned for its contemporary flavours, sophisticated cuisine and Mediterranean-style small plate menu, The Belvedere in Airlie Beach has redefined fine-dining in the Whitsundays, creating a classy yet casual feel for all to enjoy.

A popular, highly sought-after dining experience, the restaurant is fully booked most weekends and its owners are now launching an exclusive Sunday Sessions afternoon.

Guests can enjoy a more relaxed and flexible tasting menu, sitting back to marvel at the stunning ocean views and accompanied by the sweet tunes from a variety of local artists, with the delicate notes of the grand piano a central feature.

Owners Tayla and Nate Parker opened the doors to The Belvedere just over a year ago and are thrilled with how well their concept has been received.

“We give good service, but not pretentious service,” explains Tayla.

“We just want people to feel like they are walking into someone’s home, somewhere relaxed and comfortable with yummy food, different flavours and you know . . . a bit of a community on the table – a bit of fun!”

Sunday afternoons will be a relaxed and approachable experience.

“Sundays will be a little bit different to what we normally do and a lot more relaxed and casual,” said Nate.

“You can just walk up, grab yourself a cocktail and a cheeseboard and listen to some music.”

On Sundays, guests will have the option of ordering the full tasting menu or they can order individual a la carte dishes.

The knowledgeable waitstaff will be able to recommend a quantity of tasting plates to order to suit the size and appetite of your group.

“We always have a cocktail special and at the moment we have a Dragon Fruit Daiquiri which is super refreshing and great for Sunday lunch,” said Nate.

Tayla and Nate are originally from the Blue Mountains, and they previously operated a successful Asian Fusion restaurant in the area.

When they arrived in Airlie Beach they fell in love with region and felt inspired to create a Mediterranean style menu especially for the The Belvedere.

The couple now invite you to enjoy their Sunday Sessions afternoons – a relaxed, refined, and resplendent dining experience at The Belvedere.

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Owners of the Belvedere, Nate and Tayla Parker, invite you to enjoy a Sunday Session. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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Whitsunday shores were calling Jesse Reynolds and his family who have just arrived in the region and are looking forward to being part of our lively local community.

In the job for just 10 days, Jesse says he is thrilled to take on the new position and that he is already impressed with the menu.

“One of the biggest selling points of this job was when I flew up here and had dinner on the first night,” said Jesse.

“Everything was en point – the food here doesn’t need to be touched and the restaurant has a great reputation – obviously that makes it more straightforward for me coming into the business.

“It also means that it is easy for me to tweak and refine – my style of food is more contemporary and upmarket – I am also looking forward to introducing more locally caught seafood like coral trout to the menu.”

Originally from Toowoomba, Jesse knew he wanted to be a chef when he was at primary school, after watching his uncle create incredible dishes – he was mesmerised.

As soon as he finished school at 16, he became an apprentice with Steven Simon, a well-known and very tough head chef who Jesse attributes to teaching him the work ethics he lives by to this day.

Upon completing his apprenticeship, Jesse’s talents were soon noticed, and he spent a few years in Brisbane and Stanthorpe, before becoming an Executive Head Chef for Accor in Gladstone.

More recently, Jesse was the Executive Head Chef at the Caloundra Events Centre, where his team would frequently serve over 4,000 meals per week.

He is now Executive Head Chef for Paradiso, La Marina, and La Marina Express in Airlie Beach.

Jesse has two children, a nine-year-old son called Harry and a 16-month-old called William.

In his spare time, he likes to meal-prep for his family, and he is also looking forward to taking Harry fishing when he gets settled into the job.

Secret to being a great chef?

Consistency. If you don’t give consistency people don’t feel safe to come in and trust what they are going to experience. Consistency is the most important part of the job for me!

Signature Dish:

Seared scallops with white truffe cauliflower puree, chorizo, and fried leek.

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Jesse Reynolds, Executive Head Chef at Paradiso, La Marina and La Marina Express. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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The team behind the Tiny Homes Project have released details about their next fundraising event.

Tiny Homes Project is an initiative to build four tiny homes for women aged 55 and over, who are experiencing homelessness.

This next event, Let’s Do Latin, set to be held on Saturday, July 8, will “be fabulous”, says event organiser Sandy Clark.

The event will be held on the grassed area next to the Whitsunday Sailing Club, overlooking the Coral Sea.

“It’s the pick of spots in Airlie for a big party style event, and this time we can fit over 200 guests in the area, which is great because all of our previous fundraisers were sold out weeks before the event.”

Featuring Viva Acoustic and her Latino Fiesta Band, event attendees will have the dance floor to themselves, with a limbo competition and other activities happening on the night.

Whisper Gin Bar and Restaurant will be catering an array of Latino food, including Mexican-style paella and canapes.

On the night, there will be a raffle and auction, conducted by Paul Skinner of Ray White.

Sponsors for the event include Taylors Property Specialists, The Garden Bar, Mick’s Mobile Computer Services, Slinkylinks, Airlie Tiles, Green Fox Studio, and Fat Frog Café.

Tickets are available from Airlie Events, another sponsor for the night.

Tickets are $125 per person and include a cocktail on arrival, plus amazing Latino food.

WHAT: Let’s Do Latin Fundraiser

WHERE: Whitsunday Sailing Club Lawn

WHEN: Saturday, July 8

TICKETS: $125  https://bit.ly/Lets-Do-Latin

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The Tiny Homes Project to hold another event to raise funds for construction of four tiny homes for homeless women. Photo supplied

The upcoming Whitsunday Multicultural Festival has been backed by big players, with the Whitsunday Regional Council and the Whitsunday PCYC partnering up for the event.

The Whitsunday Multicultural Festival celebrates the 83 different ethnicities and cultures prevalent in the Whitsundays region, and now with the PCYC, the festival will also celebrate 38 new Australian citizens who will be officially sworn in by Mayor Julie Hall.

“In our multicultural society, we find strength in our differences and inspiration in our shared humanity, said Mayor Hall.

“Together, we can build a community that is inclusive, compassionate, and united,”

The Multicultural Festival includes family fun, with a jumping castle, food tastings from around the world, traditional dancers and musicians, a cultural dress parade, cooking classes, face painting, and a multicultural art workshop.

“This is an opportunity for our Whitsunday community’s wide-ranging cultures and ethnic backgrounds to come together and celebrate their unique differences by sharing food, entertainment, and conversation.”

The festival began in 2019, following the devastation of Cyclone Debbie, as an effort to get the community to come together and reconnect, and celebrate the diversity that runs through the Whitsundays.

“As we enjoy the music, dance, food, and traditions of various cultures, let us remember that diversity is not a challenge to be overcome, but an opportunity to be embraced,” Mayor Julie said.

The 2023 Whitsunday Multicultural Festival will be held at the Whitsunday PCYC location in Jubilee Pocket, on Sunday, May 21, from 10am to 2pm.

The Citizenship Ceremony is scheduled to begin at 10am on the main stage of the PCYC, and a Smoking Ceremony will follow at 10.45am.

“Let us use this festival as a reminder that our differences make us stronger and that together, we can create a future that is vibrant, diverse, and filled with boundless possibilities.”

WHAT: Whitsunday Multicultural Festival

WHERE: Whitsunday PCYC at Jubilee Pocket

WHEN: Sunday, May 21

TIME: 10am to 2pm

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