Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Visitors have been flocking to our region in the past week to enjoy their holidays over Christmas and New Year. At the Bowen Visitor Information Centre next to the Big Mango, the team has been very busy, welcoming more than 1000 visitors in the three days immediately after Christmas. The Centre was closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day. When it re-opened on Friday, more than 400 people called in on one day. Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said most visitors were from
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With wet season well and truly upon us, this month’s Ask An Expert article with the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry asks: How can I look after my business during storm season? Chamber members Kapow Interactive and Porters Mitre 10 Mackay and Whitsundays respond. To effectively assist our customers in preparing for seasonal weather events and potential disasters, Porters Mitre 10 Mackay and Whitsundays offer expert advice and a wide range of essential products. From storm prepar
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(An extract from “Proserpine Guardian” Thursday 31 December 1953) Christmas 1953 can be regarded as one of the brightest and happiest ever held. This was not unexpected because of the splendid season the district has enjoyed. Money was plentiful as a result, and everyone set about having a good time. The extent of the season can be gauged from the fact that the mill expects to crush 385,000 tons of sugar cane - the previous best was about 257,000 tons in 1950. Despite the excessive heat, Proserp
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One of the most difficult parts of a healthy lifestyle is maintaining it. Here are 5 top tips on how to make sure you stay on track this new year: 1. Prep fruits and veggies in advance Cut up fruits and vegetables ahead of time, store them in airtight containers in the fridge, and keep them covered with a damp towel. This can save time and make healthy eating easier. 2. Meal prep snacks Plan your snacks to avoid mindless eating and overeating. Prepare 3-5 days’ worth of healthy, easy-
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As we step into 2025, there's no better time to embrace healthier eating habits. With the holiday season behind us, now is the perfect time to swap those tempting Christmas treats for nourishing snacks that support your health goals and help prevent weight gain. Here are 5 delicious and nutritious snack alternatives to keep you on track: 1. Seasonal Fruits: Think mangoes, peaches and lychees. These nutritious fruits will help satisfy your sugar cravings. 2. Homemade Fruit Ice Blocks:
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What better way to kick off the New Year than with a bright, refreshing salad that’s bursting with sunshine and nutrients? This vibrant dish not only looks like a celebration on a plate but also offers a healthy, energizing start to 2025, helping you feel your best as you begin the year with a focus on wellness and fresh flavors. Ingredients • 1 head purple cabbage • 3 carrots • handful of cherry tomatoes • 1 cup mixed herbs. EG: cilantro, parsley, basil, and mint • 1/2 cup s
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Start your New Year off on the right foot with a nourishing smoothie that's packed with essential nutrients. This wholesome blend is the perfect way to kickstart your day, giving you the energy and vitality you need to power through your morning and set a positive tone for the day ahead. Whether you're rushing out the door or taking a moment to savour your breakfast, this smoothie will fuel you for a productive and vibrant day and year ahead. Healthy Brain Smoothie Ingredients What you will nee
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Can you hear that? The siren call of the 1980s is beckoning, and it's louder than ever! The Rewind 80’s Band, Australia’s most wanted 80’s show, is coming to the Airlie Beach Hotel for two afternoons of unforgettable nostalgia, killer tunes, lively entertainment and epic fun. What’s better than big hair, neon spandex, and pumping 80’s hits? How about a live show packed with the greatest tracks from the decade that staged Madonna, Bowie, and all the iconic tunes that were played on repeat and int
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Friday 3 January The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Rock Anthems (2pm–5:30pm) The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers(7pm–10pm) Grand View Hotel: Lucy Rose (4pm–8pm) Saturday 4 January The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: The AC/DC Show (2pm–5:30pm) The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm–10pm) Grand View Hotel: Dj Night (4pm–8pm) Coral Sea Pavilion: Live Music (from 1pm) Coral Sea Pavilion: Chill DJ Session (2pm–6pm) Sunday 5 January The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Boys of Summer (2pm–5:30pm) The Pub
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Prepare for an unforgettable evening of electrifying music as Jack Jones, the two-time Platinum, eight-time Gold, and APRA award-winning singer and songwriter, takes the stage at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on Saturday 25th January! Known for his role as lead singer and guitarist of the 90s rock band Southern Sons, Jack Jones has captivated audiences across the globe with his powerful vocals and exceptional guitar skills. Born in New York City and raised in Sydney, Jack Jones started sho
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If you want to add joy to your family, look no further than Gizmo, a sweet and affectionate 6–8-month-old kitten searching for his forever home. Gizmo is the perfect blend of playful and laid-back. He’s a champion napper, loves to curl up in cosy spots for long, peaceful snoozes. But when it’s time to play, he’s full of energy and enjoys every moment of it. His gentle nature makes him an ideal companion for families, individuals, or even homes with other pets. This sweet kitten has an endearing
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January 5 Bowen Community Sunday Market, Hansen Park, from 8am 12 Bowen Community Sunday Market, Hansen Park, from 8am 19 Bowen Community Sunday Market, Hansen Park, from 8am 24 Citizenship Ceremony, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 9:30am 26 Bowen Community Sunday Market, Hansen Park, from 8am 26 Australia Day Our Whitsunday Way, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 4pm February 2 Bowen Community Sunday Market, Hansen Park, from 8am 9 Bowen Commu
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The Airlie Beach Bowls Club has had an awesome 2024 season full of celebrations, hard work, and exciting victories, making it a memorable time for both members and the wider community. One of the highlights of the festive season was the 80th birthday celebration of one of the club's most accomplished bowlers, Andrew Noel Crosbie. Noel, who marked the special occasion on Christmas Day, was honoured by a gathering of friends and family on Boxing Day. Over the past year, Noel has enjoyed numerous
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The World Half Ironman event, held in Taupo, New Zealand on the 15th December, was an unforgettable experience for athletes and spectators alike, with stunning weather and an electric atmosphere creating the perfect backdrop for a challenging two-day competition. Representing the region, Rowena Sinclair-Smith, Megan Moa, Jodie Walker, and Michael Kimpton were all fortunate to qualify and compete at this prestigious event. The female athletes kicked off the weekend’s racing on Saturday, followed
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Saturday’s Airlie Beach parkrun was a fantastic festive success, with participants enjoying the beautiful scenery while challenging themselves in the friendly, inclusive event. Held every Saturday at 7am, the event welcomed runners of all abilities to meet at Meeting Area D, Coral Sea Marina. Top Performers: 1. Karl Ward – 20:18 (JM11-14) 2. Bryan Drennan – 20:19 (VM50-54) 3. Colin McIntosh – 20:36 (VM50-54), Thursday Morning Esplanade Running Club 4. Rachael Landers – 20:58 (SW
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Just before Christmas, 11 talented swimmers from the Cannonvale Cannons Swim Club travelled to Brisbane to compete in the 2024 Queensland Long Course Championships. The event brought together the best swimmers from across the state, providing a unique opportunity for local athletes to showcase their skills. On the first day of competition, swimmers Jacob Bell, Tiana Bell, Isaac Pisaniello, Ella Bounden, Tyler Bennett, Zach Trefz, Tora Delac, Isabella Pisaniello, Alex Trefz, and Harris Delac all
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Queensland’s beloved blue heeler, Bluey will soon make a big screen debut in an animated feature film made in Queensland. BBC Studios and the Walt Disney Company recently announced that a full-length feature film for the beloved Emmy and BAFTA award-winning animated series will land in cinemas in 2027. Written and directed by Bluey creator Joe Brumm, the film is a Ludo Studio production in collaboration with BBC Studios, and will continue the adventures of the loveable blue heeler dog and her
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With Christmas just around the corner and excitement jingling in the air, the jolly man in red is dusting off his sleigh for a special visit next week—ready to spread cheer and make spirits bright! Mount Pleasant Centre brought festive cheer earlier this month with their Santa’s Breakfast event, spreading holiday spirit while supporting a great cause. The community gathered to enjoy delicious treats from Gloria Jean’s Coffees and Donut King, with all proceeds benefiting the Mackay Hospital Found
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As we approach the end of 2024, I find myself reflecting on a year that has tested me in ways I never expected. This has certainly been the hardest year of my life. But, as with any challenge, it’s made me more determined to rebuild in 2025—stronger, wiser, and more focused on what really matters: less stress, more time with my family, and a little more 'me-time'. With a one-week break ahead, this is our final edition for the year. Looking back, we’ve covered a lot of ground in 2024—from communi
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Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) has recognised the valuable contribution of the Australian South Sea Islander community at a flag-raising ceremony held at Mackay Base Hospital last week. Representatives from Australian South Sea Islander organisations QUASSIC (Queensland United Australian South Sea Islander Council) and MADASSIA (Mackay and District Australian South Sea Islander Association) as well as other members of this community joined Mackay HHS leaders for the event. As the fir
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When the St Pat’s Brekky Van students went on an eight-week summer break, they made sure their friends visiting Orange Sky laundry shifts wouldn’t go without. Generously donating their food supplies, the students ensured the breakfasts they usually provide could continue uninterrupted. To keep the BBQs fired up, Mackay Regional Council’s Community Development network reached out for volunteers to step in—and the community rallied. Organisations including Mater Hospital, Street Chaplaincy, Uniti
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As the festive season approaches, Ergon Energy is reminding residents and businesses to take extra precautions when setting up Christmas lights and other mains-powered decorations. Area Manager Craig Brown emphasised the importance of following safety guidelines to avoid electrical hazards, fires, and potential injuries. “We want everyone to enjoy their Christmas displays without compromising safety,” said Mr Brown. “By taking the right steps, buying good quality electrical decoratio
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The Ronald McDonald Family Room at Mackay Base Hospital has a new outdoor play area ready to welcome families, but it needs a little extra magic to become the perfect retreat. To help transform this space into a fun and welcoming haven, the Family Room team has created a wish list of items for the community to support. From shade structures and comfortable outdoor furniture to toys and play equipment, the list includes items that will provide a joyful and relaxing environment for families during
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OPINION COALITION ANNOUNCES THE COST TO GO NUCLEAR The Coalition’s nuclear power plan will cost up to $263 billion less than Labor’s renewable rollout between now and 2050, translating into cheaper electricity over the long run. The costings, conducted by Frontier Economics and on Friday by Opposition Leader Peter Dutton, estimates the capital and operating costs of the Coalition’s policy to deliver net zero emissions electricity by 2050 will be $331 billion. The long-term plan will provi
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By Hannah McNamara Gary Chapman, father of the late Michael Chapman, gave a touching speech recently at the Victoria Park State School Year 6 Graduation, on December 5. As students, teachers and parents gathered in the hall for the presentation, Mr Chapman shared a powerful message – one that left an imprint on the hearts of many – to simply, be kind. Mr Chapmans son, Michael, was described as a “highly regarded friend” who was always cheerful, resilient and kind. In the late 1980s, Michae
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