Council News and Views with Mayor Ry

Last Friday I had the pleasure of attending the first annual Mackay Issac Whitsunday (MIW) Major Industry Projects Forum held in Mackay, aimed at highlighting the significant infrastructure projects set to transform the neighbouring regions.

Hosted by Regional Development Australia (RDA) Greater Whitsundays, this gathering brought together local leaders, government officials, and industry stakeholders to candidly discuss ways to enrich our communities and strengthen our economic prosperity.

The collaboration at these types of events allows us to discuss upcoming industry opportunities and forge partnerships that will drive progress in our region.  There was a huge emphasis on learning from the past, candidly discussing past ventures and how to navigate future challenges.

Inspired by the insights gained from the Industry Forum, I am optimistic for the future of the Whitsunday region but as always, it will require perpetual hard work, collaboration and a shared commitment to our goals.

Sadly, it’s the end of the road for two of the region’s beautiful fig trees. The tree at Mullers Lagoon in Bowen was removed for the safety of our residents after it split and fell for a second time due to damage sustained by Tropical Cyclone Kirrily earlier in the year.

While those things are out of our control, I’m frustrated to hear that the fig tree adjacent to the amenities block on the Cannonvale Foreshore has been subject to an act of vandalism. Based on an arborist’s report and the presence of strategically placed drill holes around its trunk, indicating a deliberate poisoning attempt, we are left with no alternative but to remove the tree to ensure public safety.

It's disheartening to see such disregard for our natural environment, especially when acts of vandalism result in the loss of cherished landmarks like this tree that has been on the foreshore for many years. I encourage anyone with information to contact Council or the Whitsunday Police.

Proserpine’s Renwick Road shared path upgrade is progressing well and will see 1065 metres of footpath increased to 3 metres between Gardenia Street to Stanbury Street. This project enhances the local active transport network and encourages safer and more accessible routes for residents.  

The shared path will predominately be constructed above existing open drain, including the installation of new culverts that will improve the streetscape and enhance the experience for pedestrians and cyclists.
Of particular significance is its close proximity to the school, facilitating safe commuting for students and teachers.

Finally, I’m thrilled to say the Freedom of Entry Parade was a huge success with hundreds of people turning out to see the 3rd Combat Engineer Regiment receive the Freedom of Entry to the Whitsunday Region.  

It was a great honour to have had the opportunity to grant the Regiment the privilege of exercising Freedom of Entry to our region - the first time in history that such a tribute has been conferred in the Whitsunday Region.

Thank you to the parade executive, the Queensland Police Service, those involved in planning the event and to everyone who went to witness such a wonderful occasion.

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