
On the 13 June I was privileged to be a Guest Speaker along with the remarkable McQuility ‘’Coco’’ Quirke a veteran of many overseas tours to unspeakable War zones. We told our stories at the WHITSUNDAY SUICIDE PREVENTION NETWORK Annual Fundraiser Legends night in Bowen.
We both shared our powerful and inspiring messages of ‘’Hope’’ to all those in attendance, encouraging that everyone can recover from ‘’dark days’’ on the journey to physical and mental stability if they reach out and seek help. Both our stories of overcoming diversity, courage, thinking positive, being proactive and not giving up were meant to motivate our guests. By the cheers and claps we both succeeded and at the same time felt humbled!
This premier event arranged by the amazing Jen Lowcock of award winning Lowcock Builder exceeded all expectations. Jen’s meticulous planning, marketing and seamless execution was absolutely amazing. There were hours of planning and preparation, what a talent! The work that was put in by Jen and her team for this Gala Event was just incredible. In attendance were the WHO’s WHO of our Region. Ron Peterson the Manager of Wesley LifeForce Suicide Prevention Networks and founding President and Chairman of WSPN was in attendance with his Team from interstate.
The remarkable Event was held at the phenomenal venue 360 on the Hill in Bowen, just incredible! The décor was AMAZING, black/white/gold was just stunning. The food and catering was to die for!
The number of local & regional sponsors for the event was just outstanding! Their generosity covered the categories from Bronze to Platinum. There were 33 in total, the result of some remarkable work of Jen Lowcock. The Event arranged a number of ‘’live auction’’ prizes donated by many local businesses, truly remarkable! All the proceeds to this non for profit community led network.
All guests had the opportunity to wind down later in the night with live music from Zed Charles and the Band. Many on the dance floor showed rhythm, fluidity and polish. The President of WSPN, Matt Stokes had his dancing shoes on following a standout performance as MC for the night. The recipient of the Whitsunday Regional Council 2025 ‘’Citizen of the Year’’, Matt has dedicated the past decade supporting our community through his work with WSPN. His tireless advocacy for mental health, mentoring of young people and commitment to creating a stronger, more connected community have inspired us all! The community is indebted to this man as he balances a huge and diverse workload. In charge of Plants Whitsunday, he juggles a busy timetable around fitting in time to spend time with his beautiful family, I am so proud to call him a ‘’great friend’’
The words of encouragement from myself and McQuility were meant to inspire and the funds raised will greatly support this important cause. Being retired, I am happy to volunteer my time to any employer, sport group or school to speak and provide inspiring stories.
Feel free to contact Michael Kimpton
0417 717 818
mkmotivationalspeaker@gmail.com