The third Whitsunday Local Government Candidate Forum was hosted by Bowen Chamber of Commerce on Monday night and held at the Larrikin Hotel in Bowen with an audience of 85 in attendance. All four Mayoral Candidates, Peter Hood, Richard Evans, Ry Collins and Phil Batty, were present on the evening alongside the Division 6 Councillor Candidates, John Finlay and David Paddon. Three questions were given from Bowen Chamber of Commerce and then three additional questions taken from the floor. Pres
Read the full storyHi Everyone, As the weather cools down, the local event scene certainly heats up! This Sunday, I called in at three local events and was reminded once again how vibrant our community is. Firstly, the International Women’s Day celebrations held by the Zonta Club of the Whitsundays at Coral Sea Resort, then the Whitsunday Chef’s Lunch at Eastwoods and finally the 10-year birthday bash at Anchor Bar. Also taking place over the weekend was the annual Cut Out Party, Collinsville Sea of Pink and a
Read the full storyA local lady’s heart was filled last week by a random act of kindness that came just at the right time and lifted her sprits when she needed it most. Earlier that week she had received a call from family who reside in Western Australia informing her that a serious car accident could have claimed the life of a family member. Thankfully, the family member was helped by some wonderful people, but the whole family were left shattered for a few days at the possibility they could have lost him. Whi
Read the full storyDelighted diners eagerly devoured a delicious lunch prepared by former Master Chef contestant, Callum Hann, on Sunday afternoon, at a special Whitsunday Chef’s Lunch hosted by local Asian fusion restaurant, Eastwoods. The event was orchestrated by Whitsunday Coast Airport as part of an initiative to promote the upcoming direct flights to Adelaide in September. “Callum has a massive network and is very high profile in Adelaide,” said Director of Commercial Businesses for Whitsunday Regional Cou
Read the full storyWhitsunday Regional Council Local Government Elections will be held this Saturday,16 March.
Polling booths are open from 8am - 6pm on election day.
Please note that by law, it is compulsory for eligible Australian citizens, aged 18 or older, to vote at Queensland elections.
If you don’t vote, you may be fined.
The penalty for failing to vote in an election in Queensland is one penalty unit, valued at $154.80 from 1 July 2023.
Find your closest polling booth location.
GREATER AIRLIE BEACH AREA
PCYC Whitsunday
2849 Shute Harbour Road
Airlie Beach
Whitsunday Christian College
26 Paluma Road
Cannonvale
PROSERPINE
Father Tom Gard Hall, St Catherine’s Catholic College
90 Renwick Road
Proserpine
BOWEN
Queens Beach State School
39 Tracey Street
Queens Beach 4805
COLLINSVILLE
Collinsville Community Centre
11 Conway Street
Collinsville 4804
HAMILTON ISLAND
Hamilton Island Resort
Resort Dr
Hamilton Island
Eight new Auxiliary Fire Fighters completed four days of intensive Road Crash Rescue Training, conducted by Queensland Fire and Rescue Emergency Services, last week.
The eight new Auxiliary Fire Fighters gathered at Proserpine Fire Station, and travelled from as far afield as Mackay and Moranbah to complete the necessary training.
“This intensive four-day course gives the new Auxiliary Fire Fighters the necessary skills and knowledge to then become very important members of their fire station crews,” explained one of the course Trainers and Proserpine Fire Station Auxiliary Lieutenant, Brian Little.
“And to assist the fire crews in rescuing the public when that all too familiar crash happens in their area.”
Mr Little was joined by two other experienced facilitators, Casey Johnston and Brad Turner, with the training consisting of both theory and practical training, with the trainees performing rescues on multiple crash simulated scenarios, including head on, roll over on roof, and on side plus persons trapped under vehicle.
“All trainees performed to a high standard and their new acquired skills will be a valuable asset to their fire station and community,” Mr Little explained.
1. The eight new Auxiliary Fire Fighters with the course facilitators
2-3 The new Fire Fighters conducting simulated road crash exercises. Photos supplied
Two Australian literary powerhouses have been announced to feature in the all-star cast at the Whitsundays Writers Festival which is set to take place in September.
The two highly acclaimed authors are Anne Buist and Graeme Simsion who are renowned and admired writers who have both published acclaimed novels.
Graeme Simsion, celebrated for his bestselling novel The Rosie Project and Professor Anne Buist, eminent psychiatrist and prolific author, will grace the Festival with their presence to discuss their latest collaborative work, The Glass House – a story of mental health from a practitioner’s perspective, as it follows a trainee psychiatrist as she learns on the job.
Anne, Chair of Women's Mental Health at the University of Melbourne, brings her decades of clinical and research expertise to the forefront in The Glass House. With a diverse literary background spanning the Natalie King crime fiction series to psychological thrillers, Anne’s contribution to our Festival is highly anticipated.
Meanwhile, Graeme’s literary prowess shines through with The Rosie Project, a comedic masterpiece that has captured the hearts of millions worldwide and is now set for a Hollywood adaptation starring Henry Cavill.
With over five million copies sold in forty languages, Graeme’s debut novel has dominated the literary scene, spending a remarkable 65 weeks on the New York Times Bestseller List.
Karen Jacobsen, President of the Whitsundays Writers Festival, expressed her excitement at having these two literary luminaries join the event.
"To have two celebrated authors joining our stellar line-up is a terrific coup," Jacobsen remarked.
"We promised Australia’s leading writers, and we are blessed with Anne and Graeme’s involvement to reveal insights about their latest release.”
"As we announce our authors, we will soon share news about the Festival’s tickets and how to purchase," Karen noted.
"My advice is to jump on our website and subscribe to receive Festival news so you don’t miss out!’
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Whitsundays, this event promises to be a cultural highlight, featuring an array of distinguished authors including Miles Franklin winner Shankari Chandran, award-winning crime writer Garry Disher, international best-selling author Sally Hepworth, and renowned author and screenwriter Christos Tsiolkas.
Authors Anne Buist and Graeme Simsion. Photos supplied
The Whitsunday Regional Council has approved an application for backpackers-style accommodation in Bowen.
The proposed accommodation, previously used by Queensland Rail to house workers, is located on Pantall Stret in Bowen, and will primarily be utilised as short term accommodation for seasonal workers.
The existing dwelling, which will remain unchanged, is a single storey building with seven bedrooms, and one dormitory style room, which will contain four beds, with shared amenities for all.
“This application for a short term accommodation is different than the usual STA applications we see,” explained Councillor Clay Bauman.
“This is built for long term workers.
“My one concern is that of safety and if these are farm workers, there may be buses to get them to and from the sites.”
Director of Development Services, Neil McGaffin explained that the proposed six car spaces are appropriate to accommodate any mini buses.
“This doesn’t raise a concern with Council,” Mr McGaffin explained.
The accommodation will be managed in conjunction with the existing Bowen Backpacker hostel, with the same managers on call 24/7.
Guests are not permitted to reside at the accommodation for longer than three months.
The application was approved unanimously by all present councillors.
The exterior of the new backpackers on Pantall Street in Bowen. Photo supplied
One lucky winner has claimed their golden ticket after they purchased a winning lottery ticket in Cannonvale.
The winner claimed their $620,369.07 from the Saturday Gold Lotto draw from last Saturday after purchasing a ticket at News Whitsunday.
It took more than two days for the winner to come forward and there was much speculation on who the lucky ticket holder was.
News Whitsunday Owner Rich Bates said the last division 1 winner in the area wished to stay anonymous due to the size of the town and suspects that this winner, if local, may want to remain the same.
It has been 12 months since the last division 1 winner ticket has been sold from News Whitsunday.
In 2023 the shop sold several tickets that won division two prizes, ranging from $25,000 - $270,000.
Across Australia this week, there were eight division 1 winners, four in Victoria, three in Queensland and one in New South Wales.
The winning numbers in Saturday Gold Lotto draw on March 9, 2024, were 11, 25, 17, 3, 2 and 31 and supplementary numbers were 15 and 24.
Almost 100 people attended the Sea of Pink fundraiser over the weekend in Collinsville with friends and family all coming together to raise money for breast cancer.
The format of the event was a 5-kilometre fun run and this is the second year the event has taken place with organisers hoping to make it an annual fundraiser for all the community to get involved with.
This years’ event raised over $13,000, smashing the $10,000 goal they had set in place.
Organiser, Alice Randell, said she is thrilled with the result and is still expecting another $1000 to come in before the end of the week.
The Sea of Pink is a celebration for International Women’s Day while simultaneously raising money for breast cancer.
Due to Covid-19 the fundraiser became virtual and it continues to offer the virtual option for those who cannot attend the event in Brisbane each year.
This is ideal for the Collinsville community who can participate in this worthwhile cause from the comfort of the local region.
The Collinsville event was extremely popular and the 5k run or walk was accessible to all, with children on bicycles and parents running along with prams.
Members of the public are already expressing their excitement for next years’ event.
"There’s nothing quite like it in town, it’s the only one in town so people really look forward to it," said organiser Alice Randell.
“Seeing everyone up and early at 7am on a Sunday morning, really keen and in the spirit, was great to see!” she added.
HERO – The local community in Collinsville got behind the Sea of Pink fundraiser in Collinsville again this year. Photos supplied
2: First to finish was Michael Delahunty
3: The kind volunteers from the Collinsville Country Women’s Association
Bowen State High School student, Dasani Appoo will be among 95 Year 11 and 12 students from across Australia attending the 29th National Schools Constitutional Convention (NSCC), in mid-March.
Held at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House in Canberra, Dasani will be the second Bowen State High School student to attend the Convention.
Dasani is excited to participate in the Convention and is looking forward to meeting likeminded students from across Australia.
“I became involved with the National Schools Constitutional Convention by Miss Raylene providing the opportunity,” Dasani explained.
“I decided it would be fun and I took part in it with Danzel and Frances.
“I am extremely excited, but also nervous as I've never flown before especially alone.”
The Convention will pose a topic to the students to investigate, critically discuss and debate.
The 2024 topic for the Convention is ‘Section 96 of the Constitution allows the Commonwealth to grant funds to areas that fall outside those prescribed in Section 51. Should Section 96 be amended to decentralise the power of the Commonwealth?’
“The topic is simple,” Dasani explained.
“And I agree with the topic about section 96 of the Australian Constitution being amended to fit the criteria of section 51 and for it to decentralise the power of our Commonwealth.”
Following the students’ debates and discussion, the overall outcome will be incorporated into a Communiqué, that will be sent to the President of the Senate, Senator Sue Lines, for tabling in Parliament and recorded in Hansard.
Outside the Convention, Dasani will also attend an official dinner at the National Press Club, the Prime Minister’s Reception at Parliament House, and have a meeting with the Governor-General, the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retd) at Government House.
Principal of Bowen State High School, Robert Harris explained that he is proud of Dasani to be attending the Convention.
“I am very proud of the opportunities provided to all students at Bowen State High School to enrich their knowledge and experiences to prepare them for whatever post schooling endeavours they wish to peruse,” he explained.
“Overall, I hope this experience brings forth many more amazing opportunities and makes me and my community known,” Dasani explained.
Dasani Appoo from Bowen State High School will attend the National Schools Constitutional Convention in March. Photo supplied
One of the Whitsundays very own has been announced as the Regional Finalist for Translink Queensland and on the short list to become Queensland Bus Driver of the Year.
David Bussey joined the Whitsunday Transit team close to seven years ago, initially joining the team as a bus cleaner, before being promoted to a service bus driver one year later.
A dedicated team member and avid driver, David, more affectionately known as ‘Buzz’, enjoys sharing local history and fun facts with his passengers, which has earned him a lot of recognition and praise.
“The word I would use to describe being a bus driver is - amazing!” Buzz explained.
“I enjoy driving buses because I love interacting with people, trying to advise them on the local area, get them to or from the destination safely.
“And I just love driving.”
Surprised by the nomination of the state award, Buzz immediately called his mum.
“To be nominated for Bus Driver of the Year Award, I'm overwhelmed.
I really enjoy the job. It's mind blowing,” he explained.
“When I first found out I was nominated for Bus Driver of the Year Award, I rang up my mum and told her, and she was overwhelmed and crying over the phone.
“The fact that Mum kept on saying ‘I'm so proud of you, even more Dave’.
“Which means a lot because I love my mum to death, as everybody does.
“If I won the award, it would be good for my moral support, the business support, the “local support,” Buzz said.
To vote for Buzz, visit translink.com.au/driverawards. Voting closes April 8.
Caption: Buzz the bus driver has been nominated for Queensland Bus Driver of the Year. Photo supplied
Despite the weekend’s weather challenges the Cut Out Party in Proserpine was a huge success.
Close to 200 people gathered at the Proserpine Showgrounds to celebrate the sugar industry which is marking its third year.
This time around the event supported the Royal Flying Doctors Service.
As of the time of going to print, there was no official number announced but organisers are expecting funds raised to be upwards of last years’ $38,000.
“It’s been a real community effort; you don’t know when you’ll need the support of the Royal Flying Doctors Service,” said treasurer Amanda Hadlow.
Amanda showed her gratitude towards the public supporting the event saying she is really appreciative of the support for the sugar industry and public coming together in the community.
A variety of items were auctioned off on the night, most notably being, fire pits, a signed North Queensland Cowboys, accommodation vouchers and local adventure activities which included the Crocodile Safari, Ocean Rafting and sailing experiences.
Tony Price
Division 2 Candidate
High-rises in Airlie Beach – what are your views on allowing more to be built in our local holiday town?
The Whitsundays is facing a critical housing and accommodation crisis that threatens our growth and prosperity. We have inadequate housing for our valuable staff and a shortage of top-quality accommodation. I support council’s existing Town Plan which outlines Highrise limits for Airlie Beach. It’s vital that Council supports developers and works towards some quality, medium density highrise accommodation enabling tourism/retail/hospitality opportunities underneath. We need to work together to ensure the relationships between council, developers and the community are positive.
Hamilton Plains often floods cutting off access to the hospital and airport - how would you advocate for better infrastructure so residents have access?
It has been announced that a $21Million upgrade to Hamilton Plains has been approved with the Federal Government contributing 80 per cent and State 20 per cent with work expected to commence in Mid-2024. We need to ensure it happens. The back road to Proserpine through Strathdickie often floods at Crofton Creek so this should also be addressed. Talking hospital, it’s time Council pressed the State Government to plan for an Emergency Hospital near Cannonvale so any crisis can be avoided.
The Bowen Jetty – what would you like to see happen with this community asset in the future?
This could be a wonderful attraction if developed in the right manner. If upgraded to its former glory, wouldn’t it be great to see a Whitsunday boating operator picking up guests from Bowen and bringing them to Cape Gloucester/Montes, Airlie Beach and back? The Jetty is a Bowen icon and should be preserved in some form if possible. It’s great to see North Queensland Bulk Ports providing residents an opportunity for feedback to ensure a win-win result for Bowen and the heritage-listed jetty.
Ted Cunningham Bridge – where do you think fault lies with this situation and how would you have managed it better?
I don’t have access to all the details that current councillors would have regarding Ted Cunningham Bridge but from community discussion I understand that the approach should have been built with concrete instead of gravel and bitumen. Common Sense in Council has always been my motto and fast-flowing water will always be an issue so better planning and design should be looked into. It’s vital that the approach be reinstated securely as it’s a lifeline for many graziers and businesspeople.
Ry Collins
Mayoral Candidate
High-rises in Airlie Beach – what are your views on allowing more to be built in our local holiday town?
My views are plain and simple with regards to high rise and any development in our region - we need to be assessing them in accordance with our planning scheme. If that planning scheme isn’t fit for purpose anymore then we need to be engaging with our community to really understand exactly what it is that they want, and how our town should look.
Hamilton Plains often floods cutting off access to the hospital and airport - how would you advocate for better infrastructure so residents have access?
I’ve got a very good background in advocacy, good relationships with the State Government and what I’ve already committed is within my 90 days that I’ll meet with transport minister Bart Mellish to discuss Hamilton Plains along with our other key roads that are problems in the region and really develop a plan for how we address these.
The Bowen Jetty – what would you like to see happen with this community asset in the future?
The Bowen jetty, is an important piece of Bowen’s history and I’ve had the luxury of being heavily involved with the project already, through my existing relationships in Bowen and with North Queensland Bulk Ports. Really for me it’s all about connectivity, its ensuring that we have an asset there that adjoins the Bowen foreshore and is able to connect back through to our main street of town.
Ted Cunningham Bridge – where do you think fault lies with this situation and how would you have managed it better?
It ultimately comes down to communication to me. From my perspective someone needs to take leadership on this issue and really look to connect the dots between what’s going wrong from a contractor perspective and make sure that the needs of the community are addressed.
Richard Evans
Mayoral Candidate
High-rises in Airlie Beach – what are your views on allowing more to be built in our local holiday town?
There are two parts to this question – do we need high quality 5-star tourist accommodation? And is there a shortage of housing in the Whitsundays?
Firstly, we don’t need to be the Gold Coast. I think the 12-story development is a mistake. The community clearly doesn’t want it and questions remain about process. However, we do need properly planned 5-star developments.
We also need housing, and we should consider high density housing to accommodate the demands of the community.
Hamilton Plains often floods cutting off access to the hospital and airport - how would you advocate for better infrastructure so residents have access?
To have any community cut off during wet season is totally unacceptable. The state government has approved works over 12 months ago, and yet there is no action. Indeed, the TMR is negligent in the manner it maintains roads across the Whitsundays. The potholes on our major roads are a disgrace.
Desk thumping advocacy is required and in an election year there is a perfect opportunity for us to get action. We need to improve the attitudes of the TMR.
The Bowen Jetty – what would you like to see happen with this community asset in the future?
Bowen Jetty is an important historical location, and the community wants it saved. However, saving it should be part of an entire development of Bowen Wharf, harbour, and foreshore. In consultation with the community, we must look at opportunities that may exist for development beyond just saving the Jetty, such as dry dock facilities. The Jetty cannot be a stand-alone project and we need to work to provide facilities that incorporates it.
Ted Cunningham Bridge – where do you think fault lies with this situation and how would you have managed it better?
The Bridge and its complex aftermath are problematic of my issues with Council making decisions. Clearly the management of the project remains inadequate with no accountability taken. This tells me a culture of chaos exists where no-one takes responsibility. If this lack of responsibility exists in a project, then that culture permeates throughout the entire operation. I think the bridge is emblematic of culture and systems in place that at times wastes money. I’ll bring accountability culture to council.
Phil Batty
Mayoral Candidate
High-rises in Airlie Beach – what are your views on allowing more to be built in our local holiday town?
We already have high rises, nine and a half stories over at the Sebel but its hidden against the hill. So, I’m not against high rise per say, but, I am against high rises sticking out in the middle of the foreshore and the precedent it sets for the rest of the town, because there are people that are sitting on land projects that are waiting to get final approval so they can build higher. I don’t want to see that; I think the foreshore needs to stay as it is and I think there’s opportunity to build higher density than high rise.
Hamilton Plains often floods cutting off access to the hospital and airport - how would you advocate for better infrastructure so residents have access?
In the 22 years that I’ve been here, every four years, somebody says they’re going to fix Hamilton Plains as part of their election campaign and every four years somebody else says that they’re going to do it but it never happens. I think I can get that over the line and get that fixed. The main plains that are flooding are 450 metres long, if we can’t fix the 450 metre stretch of flood plain then I think there’s something missing somewhere. There’s an election coming up in October, state elections, the Government in charge will start allocating funds.
The Bowen Jetty – what would you like to see happen with this community asset in the future?
I walked Bowen Jetty only a couple of months ago from end to end, it’s in a state of disrepair but I don’t think it’s beyond the point of salvage. The plans at the moment are about demolishing it and building a new one and I don’t think that necessary. I walked Bowen CBD yesterday and talked to some shop owners and one of the things that came up was a really simple fix for livability. They wanted to see some fishing rod holders and bait stations down the jetty and maybe a few seats so people can sit down and to me that’s a very simple $10,000 fix. Why can’t we just get it done and move on and get it sorted? But I think the jetty’s got loads of potential if the surface that’s starting to deteriorate is repaired you can have cafes, you can have marine signs, you can have all sorts of things on that jetty without going to the disruption of knocking it down.
Ted Cunningham Bridge – where do you think fault lies with this situation and how would you have managed it better?
Difficult question and subject to a court case probably although the council say they’ve had some without prejudice discussions with the designers and the builders of the bridge. The span of the bridge simply wasn’t long enough and the lead in and lead out was the biggest issue. It wasn’t going well, it washed away in four days. Somewhere between the original designer, the construction company that actually built the bridge, and the council that provided the lead in and lead out of the bridge. Somebody has to be held liable and responsible. I’m not sure how in the legal sense that’s playing out at the moment but for something that cost millions of dollars to wash out in four days means that it’s a serious issue and somebody needs to step up and find out who it was and get it fixed and get them to pay for it.
Clay Bauman
Division 2 Candidate
High-rises in Airlie Beach – what are your views on allowing more to be built in our local holiday town?
I support developments that embrace Airlie’s unique charm. We don’t have "high-rise". I believe the court approval, laden with limitations or “killed with conditions”, will probably never be built. My aim is for the Council to collaborate, not conflict, with both community and developers who genuinely appreciate Airlie's special character.
Hamilton Plains often floods cutting off access to the hospital and airport - how would you advocate for better infrastructure so residents have access?
Our priorities are clear and must be communicated concisely to the State, through our Mayor. With 77 councils all having wish lists, councillors making individual requests to Ministers, risks creating confusion. A unified and coordinated approach from our Council will strengthen our voice and ensure our needs are heard effectively.
The Bowen Jetty – what would you like to see happen with this community asset in the future?
For me preserving the jetty's history and character is key. Given the high repair costs I’ve heard bandied about, restoring the original timber of a shorter jetty with desired improvements would be most feasible. I think this approach could maximise the jetty’s potential within the $50 million budget currently available.
Ted Cunningham Bridge – where do you think fault lies with this situation and how would you have managed it better?
After reviewing the email exchange and an expert report post-washout, it's clear to me that the contractor underestimated the flood water’s impact. My priority is reopening the bridge and avoiding a costly court battle over blame. I think giving clearer instructions and contracts in future could prevent such problems again.
John Compton was a pioneer of the Proserpine district - the very first Chairman of the Proserpine Shire Council (1910) and a mover and shaker in the separation of Proserpine from Wangaratta (Bowen Rural Shire).
Born in Herefordshire England March 14 1865, he migrated to Bowen in 1883. Though working in the Bowen district, in October 1884 he purchased 160 acres of land at Mt Julian (called “Fern Hill”).
In 1893, he married Sarah Gray and together they travelled to stations where John, a proficient carpenter, constructed stockyards and homes. In 1895, the Compton family settled on a 50 acre block on Glen Isla estate. At that time, plans were underway for progression in the sugar industry. In the early 1900s, John and his family moved to his farm “Fern Hill” described in his son Alex’s diaries, as being “two square miles and (extending) as far as Palm Creek on one side and Proserpine River on the other.” John Compton started clearing land in time for the first crushing at Proserpine Sugar Mill in 1897. It was wild country in those days.
John also purchased land in Proserpine’s Main Street (portion 193) and also owned a farm named “Auburn” in the area where Proserpine’s Hospital and Fresh Fields Shopping Centre now stand.
A story of many firsts …
In 1896, John Compton was one of the first shareholders in the Proserpine Central Sugar Mill and was one of the first suppliers of cane to the mill when it opened in 1897. In 1908, the “Port Denison Times” described him as one of the largest canegrowers in the district.
John Compton was one of the original members of the Proserpine Progress Association (1897) and an active member of the Hospital Committee in its early years.
As an early Proserpine representative on the Bowen - Proserpine Tramway Board, he made many visits on horseback to meetings in Bowen agitating for a separate shire for Proserpine. His dream became a reality when the first meeting of Proserpine Shire, newly separated from Wangaratta, was held on March 11, 1910 and he was elected its first Chairman. It was a fitting reward that he held this position when the Bowen – Proserpine Railway was opened later that year.
The first church to open in Proserpine, the Presbyterian Church, was built on land donated by John Compton and the first show was held in that same year (1899) in his shed on his land on the corner of Main Street and Herbert Street. The community picnic held to celebrate King George V’s Coronation was also held on this spot in 1911.
In 1913, the first Council Chambers was established in a building in Main Street that was purchased from John Compton.
The ensuing years of John’s life were characterised by a propensity to shift about. After building a house on his “Auburn” farm in town, he sold his Mt Julian farm (circa 1915). Just prior to this, he purchased 10 acres of farm land from G A Waite to add to the town property. Then in 1920, he sold “Auburn” moving further down to another farm, “Yelvertoft”, in the vicinity of what is known today as Glen Isla turn off.
In 1922, John sold this and moved the family to Warwick however a few months later they returned to Proserpine due to his ill health. Still owning a residence in Herbert Street, the family remained there until John’s pioneering spirit impelled him to take up 150 acres at Banana Pocket (now known as Lethebrook) where he once again built a new home and cleared land to grow cane.
After a life of hard work and service to the Proserpine district community, John Compton died on July 27 1932
Story and photo courtesy Proserine Historical Society.
Caption: John Compton - the very first Chairman of the Proserpine Shire Council (1910)
Peter Hinschen
Cannon Valley
I'd like to see a freeze on rates, every year they seem to go up. A freeze on rates and I’d like know before the election what their intentions are in dragging that wind farm between here and Collinsville. I think someone should come forward and let us know whether they want to approve it. That’s my opinion.
Liz Pearson
Cannonvale
I think the first thing is obviously the roads and the main town of Airlie Beach it's just, Airlie Beach is abysmal, you know, for a tourist town, it just looks terrible. From cleaning up the footpaths to making it tidy, to uplift it and just to be listened to about those kind of things. And every year at Christmas we don’t get any decorations, things like that. It's a simple thing, you know, we're a great town. And yes, we need that uplift.
Alan Steffes
Bowen
I’ll give you a prime example, I’m looking at going to the counter, you know what the girl told me? I can’t help you otherwise I’ve got to help everyone else, so guess how many people had their hand up, just me. I want to be more talked to, don’t go palming me off saying ‘oh I can’t help you, or I’ve got to help everyone else’. And I’d like more things for kids but other than that they’re not too bad and well potholes, that’s just part of life.
Sheena
Cannonvale
I don't think they do enough for senior people. So, anything from the new council will be good.
They have senior classes in Bowen, why can't they have them here? I've asked the previous council or previous mayor. She wasn't able to help at all. That's my main concern. Otherwise, they're pretty good, I think.
Noel Wolsten
Brandy Creek
Well, I just want development to be less commercial. I don't want any high rise. I think we're already at saturation point with development in the foreshore anyway. I've been here for 50 years and it’s just not the same place. I know progress, it happens everywhere but it just goes beyond. I just want them to be gentle with the nature.
Wayne Bolitho
Cannon Valley
The interest of the local government has been the bloody high rise down the road and apparently its gonna happen anyway. A high rise that close, I don’t think that’s good policies. At Surfers Paradise, it’s all high rises but they don’t see it being an issue, and it’s all been approved, council approved it, council even went to court over it to try and get it approved, so yeah I don’t really like it. You know what I want as priorities? Roads and rubbish.
In 20 years, the population on the Whitsunday Coast (Cannonvale/Airlie Beach area) has almost doubled while the infrastructure to support that growth has never happened.
What I bring to the table is an ability to fight for more than a fair share for Division 2.
I’m about getting things done in the area, not endlessly trying to find a reason to say no or put-up roadblocks to stop something that will help our region grow and prosper.
10 Reasons to Vote 1 Tony Price for Division 2
1:
Pro-Business: I have been in business in the Whitsundays for 45 years and totally support the business, tourism and development sector.
2:
The Big Picture: I am dedicated to ensuring vital infrastructure is established and planned for through council initiatives, state/federal support or private investment including improved road infrastructure, Aged Care facilities, planning for a State High School and Emergency Hospital near Cannonvale and sporting/recreation and leisure facilities.
3:
Action on housing and accommodation: We’re losing highly trained workers and their families. There are hundreds of lots approved but not developed in the Cannonvale corridor. A stumbling block is two major round-abouts. Let’s meet with the developers and Main Roads to find a solution and bring properties onto the market.
4:
Unparalleled Local Knowledge: I know the area from the Whitsunday Islands to the Coal fields so understand other divisional needs when it comes to negotiations to ensure the best result for Division 2.
5:
Proven Councillor Experience: I was the Division 2 Councillor for two terms, serving on several boards including Tourism Whitsunday and North Queensland Economic Development Board.
6:
Effective Communication and Negotiation: I know all four unopposed elected Councillors. I was able to get things done as a Councillor as I could work and reason with other councillors for the best possible outcomes for Division 2.
7:
Tenacious Advocate: I helped organise the ‘Save our Airport’ protest and secure funding for projects including Airlie Lagoon and PCYC I am willing to stand-up and make some noise for the Whitsunday Coast’s rights and future.
8:
Grounded in Common Sense: After 45 years in business, I can see the issues clearer and make decisions based on logic and a positive outlook.
9:
Family Values: I raised my four children in the Whitsundays and have 11 grandchildren (1-21 years) – I know what the community wants and expects from their local representative.
10:
Community focused: I started the Cannonvale Airlie Beach Junior Rugby League so kids on the Whitsunday Coast had an opportunity to train and play closer to home. Recently we donated $6,000.00 to junior sporting clubs in the area following a sports reunion.
Authorised by Tony Price, 34 Faust Street Proserpine, QLD 4800
Tony Price presenting a cheque of $6,000 to junior sporting clubs in the Whitsunday area after a Reunion in Airlie Beach. Photo supplied
Sarah Watson From Lightning Comms
Star sign: Capricorn
Fav Colour: Green
Fav holiday destination: Fiji
Fav quote: Life’s too short to drink bad wine.
Describe your personality in three words: Focused, loyal, compassionate
Sarah Watson is the shining force behind Lightning Comms, a business she runs alongside her husband. She takes on a multitude of roles, including office manager, all-rounder and helping hand on site when needed. The businesses specialises in information and communications technology and security. And while it is quite a specialised field with technology constantly changing and products forever evolving, Sarah and her team consider themselves to be experts in the field and are dedicated to ensuring their work is consistently up to date.
The team work on residential, commercial, government and school projects and are certified cablers for two different data cable brands which allows the company to offer 25-year warranties on the cabling systems installed.
In light of International Women’s Day, Sarah is proud to be a woman in business as she role models for her children that “whatever goals they have or want in life, if they try hard and give it their all, they can achieve them.”
Although Sarah owns her own successful business, she touches on the influences around her, like her mother and mother-in-law who both have strong work ethics, giving 110 per cent into their work. Both these women have played a big part in Sarah’s devotion and dedication to her very own career journey.
With an ever-growing business, Sarah often finds it hard to balance home and work life but understands the importance of family time and is a pro at organising meal plans, groceries, home planners for activities, appointments and extracurricular activities throughout the week.
Sarah finds joy in spending quality time with her husband Sam and three children, Ruby, Xavier and Willow along with their beloved cat Eddie. She also loves relaxing with a good glass of wine.
Jade Richardson from Tourism Whitsundays
Star sign: Cancer
Fav Colour: Light Blue
Fav holiday destination: Anywhere with a beach
Describe your personality in three words: Kind, passionate, enthusiastic
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given? from Robin Sharma: “A burning sense of passion is the most potent fuel for your dreams.”
Coming from a small coastal country town in South Australia called Yankalilla, Jade moved to the Whitsunday region seventeen years ago and says she is here to stay after falling in love with the area, claiming it to be a perfect place to raise kids, live a good life and stay connected to all of its natural beauty.
Combining her love for nature and all things Whitsundays, Jade is now the Membership and Marketing Coordinator at Tourism Whitsundays and is fully dedicated to establishing quality communication with members, both current and prospective. The organisation is deeply committed to showcasing the Whitsunday region as a tourism destination and works hand in hand with Tourism and Events Queensland and the Whitsunday Regional Council to lead the marketing efforts.
Jade reflects on the importance of International Women’s Day and what it means to her as she touches on her pride in being part of a predominantly female team. As a woman in business, surrounded by many other strong, intelligent, and goal-focused women, Jade is reminded daily of what can be achieved with an abundance of focus and inspiration in the workplace. Jade was left inspired by Naomi McKinnon’s leadership and focused work ethic, she learnt that regardless of how life changes we can rebuild incredible futures for ourselves and our children. Most of all Jade is inspired by the everyday leaders of her community.
When she’s not chasing her career dreams, Jade likes to take her kids to the beach for rock walks and enjoys outdoor activities.
Wendy Bickhoff
Star sign: Virgo
Fav Colour: Blue
Fav holiday destination: Tasmania
Fav quote: When one door closes another one opens.
Wendy Bickhoff was born in Bowen with a heritage line dating back to 1863 when her family arrived on the first migrant ship in North Queensland from England. She attended school through to grade 10 until she joined the workforce at a local IGA, and later worked in a Pharmacy which also included a banking agency. After living in Mackay for a short while, she returned to Bowen to run a grazing operation for 16 years before buying Corals City 2 Country.
Wendy is one of the owners and is the lead manager at Corals City 2 Country, specialising in fitting shoes especially for people with feet problems. Wendy was born with turned feet and has endured problems with finding suitable shoes throughout her life, thus understanding those who struggle to find the right shoe when dealing with similar conditions.
In honour of International Women’s Day, Wendy addresses that women bring a different point of view to a business. Stemming from her mother’s dedication and ‘never say no attitude’ Wendy says her mother is her greatest role model and mentor, touching on the importance of having strong people in life to keep us going when life gets in the way.
Emphasising on the importance of family time, Wendy likes to cook, watch a good movie as well as spend quality time with her two children and a ‘very naughty’ Jack Russel who believes he is the most important family member.
Corals City 2 Country is a unique business that has something for everyone… from your hat to your hanky and even engraving. The store stocks well-known brands like Ariat, Wrangler and Thomas Cook to Orientique, Escape and Sass.
Coral Sea Resort was transformed into a sea of purple and white on Sunday when around 120 people celebrated International Women’s Day with the Zonta Club of the Whitsundays.
The guests were greeted to a glass of sparkles on arrival and enjoyed a three-course meal that set the stage for a sensational afternoon.
At the event the young and talented Scarlet Foti was given recognition for her astonishing work.
At just 17 she has developed a self-guided book for neurodivergent children and has an active involvement in various community services, such as Occupational Therapy Whitsundays and she also teaches for the Music Evolution.
Scarlet was given a scholarship on the day and congratulated by all in attendance.
Dame Carol Kidu also attended the event and donated a handcrafted item from Papua New Guinea which was auctioned off during the afternoon.
Member for Whitsunday, Amanda Camm and Julie Hall, Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor were also in attendance.
The event was full of raffles and auctions, and it served as Zonta’s fundraiser for their many ongoing projects and scholarship.
The Zonta Club of the Whitsunday expresses its gratitude to all donations and sponsors that participated in making the weekend’s event so special and impactful.
Zonta is a group based in the Whitsundays with the mission to raise money for struggling women, whether that would be women in third world countries or local.
The Zonta Club of the Whitsundays hold monthly meetings every third Thursday and everyone is welcome to join.
Photo credit: Rachael Smith
Guests had a fantastic time at this years’ International Women’s Day High Tea hosted by The Zonta Club of Bowen on Sunday.
A crowd of 85 attended the event held at Wangaratta Bowls Club in Queens Beach.
Attendees reportedly had a whirl and said the food was amazing.
Numerous guest speakers attended the event, including Associate Professor Carmen Parter who spoke about her family life, work life and her strong belief of standing together united.
Suited to Success representative, Emma Galligan gave a presentation by dressing Zonta employee Nan, in three different outfits with varying accessories to create four different outfits for different scenarios.
Suited to Success provides free styling, clothing, and career support services for people in need throughout Queensland.
Final guest speaker was Katrina Smith, she is studying Bachelor of Nursing through Central Qld University, while also working at Bowen Hospital and she won the 2024 Bursary Award on the day.
Other awards at the event were the Community Recognition Awards and this year more categories were added.
The Agent of Change award is given to a local lady or ladies who are recognised for their tireless work towards bettering the community.
This years’ winners were, Chris Storrie, Anne Steen, Jenn Honnery, Dee Jastremski, Shelley Tait and Kasie Lane.
Mover of Mountains award is given to the local lady or ladies who have achieved big things for the Bowen community with Christine Coventry and Julies Jurgens winning the award this year.
The Group Greatness is awarded to a local club or group that has proved themselves numerous times to be pillars of the community and this years’ winner was The Bowen Community Op-Shop Volunteer Ladies.
Susanne Gaffney; Sharyn Stoessel; Cheryl Throssell; Carmen Lynch; Heather Johnston; Christine Prosser.
1: L to R: Chris Storrie; Anne Steen; Jenn Honnery; Dee Jastremski; Shelley Tait; & Kasie Lane with Zonta President Jacintha Nawia
2: Christine Coventry; Julies Jurgens with Zonta President Jacintha Nawia
3: L to R: Susanne Gaffney; Sharyn Stoessel; Cheryl Throssell; Carmen Lynch; Heather Johnston; Christine Prosser, with Zonta President Jacintha Nawia
4: Associate Professor Carmen Parter
5: Emma Galligan from Suited to Success
6: 2024 Bursary winner Katrina Smith
All images supplied
With friendships made over the pool table, Anchor Bar tattoos seen around town and people recommending the ‘retreat from the main-street’ as you board a plane from Brisbane – it is easy to see how this iconic local venue has become both a meaningful and memorable place for many people over the years.
Opening its doors 10 years ago, Anchor Bar came to life when couple Josh Knutson and Leah McMillan saw an ad in the local newspaper and jumped at the opportunity to run their own place.
The pair had met in Airlie Beach a few years earlier and had known each other from their homeland of New Zealand before this chance reconnection changed the trajectory of their lives.
Leah recalls that Josh had been working in construction and landscaping on the main-street revitalisation project when she called into town for two weeks to take a sailing course.
Having travelled the world for five years prior, when the couple met, Leah decided to stay and make a life here in Airlie Beach with Josh.
“You travel all around the world, but end up finding another Kiwi from your hometown!” she laughed.
When they first took over the venue it needed a little love as it had previously been a quiet bar that did not serve food and predominantly looked after resort clientele.
With a vision to create something different, but in-fitting with the casual coastal atmosphere of the town, Josh and Leah began to organically develop the offering.
Over the past decade Anchor Bar has evolved to become the popular place it is today.
“It’s our secret hideaway, the ‘retreat from the main street’ and it has its own unique identity, its own cult following,” shared Leah.
“We’ve seen people with Anchor Bar tattoos and had people come in who said they’d been told about us while boarding the plane from Brisbane.
“We are loved by locals but also travellers and holidaymakers who come through town.”
When asked the reason for their success, Leah said it is to do with consistency, especially when it comes to food.
“Putting consistently good food out has been our main goal,” she shared.
“We saw the potential to make this beautiful space into a family-friendly spot for everyone and I think over the years we have achieved that.”
With limited hospitality experience before they opened Anchor Bar, Josh and Leah say it was a whirlwind first few years when they managed the business before buying it in 2014 and then finally purchasing the freehold in 2017.
“It’s such a fun industry to be in and we love it!” Leah said.
“Usually, you pay to go out but we’re getting paid to be out and have fun!
“All this would not have been possible without our fantastic staff, our loyal locals and of course our amazing local suppliers – thank you all so much for making Anchor Bar what it is today.”
It was three years ago that Rabia opened the doors to Palace Hair and Beauty in Proserpine, after trading in the same location for 15 years as AMAC Hair Design with a long-standing clientele.
Prior to taking over the salon, Rabia had been running a variety of businesses for almost 20 years in several different countries, which provided a solid foundation in business fundamentals to bring to her new hometown of Prosperine, whilst learning and loving the “Prossy” way of doing things.
As Rabia grew her customer base, she identified a gap in the market for a proper Barbershop, and after securing the shop next door, proceeded to open the Kingsmen Barbershop with a focus on traditional barbering techniques and modern trends.
The mission of the Palace Hair and Beauty & Kingsmen Barbershop is to provide exceptional hair and grooming services while fostering a sense of community and belonging for clients.
The team understand the importance of looking and feeling great and are dedicated to helping individuals achieve their desired style with personalised consultations and top-notch services.
Understanding the unique style and preferences of their clients is key, given a common challenge is discovering a preferred stylist has moved away or relocated to the mines. Rabia and her team address this challenge by ensuring the entire team are consistently trained in all customer preferences and styles, so if a team member relocates, the rest of the team can continue to take good care of that customer.
As a business owner, Rabia suggests that it is imperative to look after your staff and customers, communicate effectively to promote good management, seek feedback from clients and staff, and share this feedback with the team to facilitate improvements.
Rabia says “Being a member of the Chamber has enabled me to receive support and advice to broaden my understanding of local market demands.The Chamber of Commerce truly shares their knowledge and leadership, as well as providing member education and engagement, which helps alleviate the day-to-day pressures of running of a small business.”
Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Caption: The dedicated team at Kingsmen Barbershop. Photo supplied
The Bowen tourism community are celebrating this week with news that one of their own was awarded Gold at the Grey Nomad Awards held over the weekend.
Queens Beach Tourist Village once again received the top gong in the Best Large Caravan Park Category.
This is the third consecutive year the park has received the award which means it has now been inducted into the Hall of Fame for these awards.
Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said it was fantastic news that the Queen’s Beach Tourist Village had won Gold in their category again in the Grey Nomads Awards.
“Peter and Jennie and the Team at Queen’s Beach run a fantastic park. They are also great ambassadors for Bowen and the greater Whitsundays region,” Ms Abernethy said.
In addition to this, two other local hot spots were finalists in the awards.
“We were also very pleased that the Big Mango was named a finalist in the Best Attraction category and that Bowen was also a national finalist in the category for the Best Grey Nomad Friendly Town,” she added.
“This was the first time we had nominated for these awards so to be named finalists in both categories was very pleasing.”
The Grey Nomad Awards shines a light on the best places for older travellers to stay and play around the country.
The Awards are judged by tourism leaders from across the country who offer valuable insights and detailed feedback to each entrant, ensuring nominees have practical tips to improve their tourism offering for the future benefit of their business, their community and visitors.
Caption: Queens Beach Tourist Village once again received the top gong in the Best Large Caravan Park Category. Photo supplied
Tourism representatives from across the region are heading to Darwin this weekend for the much-anticipated 2023 Australian Tourism Awards which is due to be held this evening.
Still on a high from winning the trifecta at the 2022 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards which were held in Sydney last year, there is a general atmosphere of excitement surrounding the event once again.
Rick Hamilton, CEO of Tourism Whitsundays, says he is thrilled to attend the event again this year.
“This event is the pinnacle of awards in our industry and The Whitsundays is well represented this year,” he shared.
“The businesses who are in the running tonight entered and won gold at the 38th Annual Queensland Tourism Awards in November 2023, along with the gold winners from the other states.
“Securing gold in 26 per cent of the state award categories, The Whitsundays claimed seven gold, two silver, five bronze, and one highly commended award, marking another significant achievement for the region.
“We’re all wishing the best of luck to Ocean Rafting, BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort, Pinnacles, Airlie Beach, Magnums Accommodation Airlie Beach and Whitsunday Coast Airport.”
Caption: Whitsunday representatives attending the 2022 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards in Sydney last year. Photo supplied
With a reputation for amazing food that is simple yet cooked to perfection and packed with flavour, it is easy to how Anchor Bar is booked out almost every night.
From the beginning Josh and Leah knew their point of difference would be consistently good food that kept people coming back whether it be a few times a week or a few times a year.
“You know the chicken wings are going to be the same whether you come back every few months or once a year,” explained Leah.
“People love that, and we believe it’s a big draw card which keep the coming back.”
Another drawcard is the flexibility and diversity of food styles – whether you are having a romantic dinner for two, a lively group of friends, or even want to hire the venue out privately for a 100 people – Anchor Bar will do their best to accommodate.
Their popular food platters make it easy for people to share and enjoy a selection of almost every dish on the menu.
And for larger parties, Anchor Bar offer a buffet-style setting where guests can serve themselves and enjoy a social, comfortable atmosphere.
The Chef’s Special Board is also a popular choice, offering additional menu options that have been lovingly created and are a little different.
The Specials Board is where the in-house chefs are able to use their knowledge of cuisine to bring inspiration from seasons and local produce to the plate.
And of course, at the foundation of the menu is the incredible local meats and seafoods that are sourced from nearby quality suppliers.
“We love working with local suppliers and with Fishi and Master Butchers, we know the quality, and it’s a privilege to use their produce in our dishes.”
As soon as you walk into Anchor Bar you are instantly struck by the most majestic sea views that open out before you like a picture-perfect postcard right before your eyes.
Renowned for being the ‘retreat from the street’, Anchor Bar is tucked away, a few minutes’ walk up the hill from the main street of Airlie Beach, at the Terraces Resort.
Prior to becoming Anchor Bar, the venue was known as Terraces and very much a part of the resort complex.
It was a proud moment for Josh and Leah when Anchor Bar became famous in its own right, known as the ‘secret gem’ with the stunning views that you ‘simply must visit while you’re in town’.
The view is made even more spectacular by the scenic swimming-pool that sits at the centre.
Guests who are dining at Anchor Bar are welcome to sign-in and will receive a fob key that allows them full use of the swimming-pool.
This means that a lunch-time catch-up can easily lead into an afternoon session by the pool and locals only need to walk up the hill to feel like they are having a holiday in their own town.
All seating at Anchor Bar is styled around the view and every table has stunning vistas out to the Coral Sea.
In the winter months guests can watch whales as they breach in the baby, often with their calves in tow.
Frequently, cruise ships can also been seen from this serene aspect atop the hill.
With a casual beach atmosphere and the feeling you are on a permanent holiday, Anchor Bar transports you to a time where your cares are distant memories and your pleasure receptors are on fire.
Famous for hosting epic milestone birthday parties, but also adept at providing a beautiful backdrop for any occasion, Anchor Bar is the perfect location for almost any event.
With large share platters that can either be served to the table or displayed in a buffet style format, your guests will be excited about both the party and the food when you host at Anchor Bar.
Josh and Leah both love the fact that Anchor Bar has been a part of many key moments in people’s lives – from weddings to christenings, to staff parties and everything in between.
They have watched babies grow-up and they have witnessed moments of love and friendship which make their jobs feel even more special.
Entertain Me
Known as one of the must-see live music venues in town, Anchor Bar delivers some of the best live music from its scenic stage at the heart of the venue.
Weekends come alive with song, whether it be acoustic guitarists playing blissful tunes or Airlie Beach Festival of Music performances that attract the bigger crowds for the party atmosphere when the event takes place in November each year.
A big supporter of live music and of local musicians, Josh and Leah invest in keeping local entertainment alive and kicking while delivering authentic and enriching experiences for their patrons.
A Cocktail In Paradise
Sea, sun and a swimming-pool create a holiday atmosphere, but nothing completes the picture more than a tropical cocktail to add a bit of flair and pizzazz to the experience.
Anchor Bar specialises in fruity, tropical cocktails and the stunning original timber bar is adept at pumping them out with the quick and efficient bar staff working to create the drink of your dreams.
While there is no specific Happy Hour, Josh and Leah aim to keep the prices low all day long.
“We always have a $5 beer and a $12 cocktail on the board,” said Leah.
BEST COCKTAIL: The Spicy Margarita
On The Menu
From freshly shucked oysters to chicken wings, poolside burgers to share platters, the Anchor Bar kitchen celebrates all food, cooked well and packed with flavour.
Why not spend some quality time with your girlfriends and help raise money for breast cancer awareness and research?
Sure to be a Saturday afternoon well spent, this Breast Cancer Fundraiser, hosted by Espresso and Bloom, with catering by Whisper Gin Bar and Restaurant, has an all star cast.
Tickets are only $75 and include canapes, a welcome glass of bubbles, auction paddle and a lucky door prize.
Don’t miss the exclusive spread of auction items, donated from businesses in the region, especially for the event. Some of these include businesses such as Coral Sea Resort, Cruise Whitsundays, The Belvedere, GLO Aesthetics, Whitsunday Green and Principle Movements, plus so much more!
And with Whisper Gin Bar offering to keep the party going with their courtesy bus straight to KC’s Bar and Grill’s front step, you can hit the town, knowing you’ve helped the Breast Cancer Foundation.
WHAT: Espresso and Bloom Breast Cancer Fundraiser
WHERE: Whisper Gin Bar
WHEN: Saturday, March 23, from 2pm to 6pm
TICKETS: www.espressoandbloom.com.au
I am so excited! “It’s Autumn”.
Autumn in the Whitsundays means temperatures drop into the high twenties instead of low thirties, the humidity drops, rainfall decreases (so ready for that!) and Veggie Gardens get started. What isn’t there to love about Autumn in the Whitsundays?
March is still a transition month, so not quite time to get planting every imaginable tropical kitchen garden food, that’s the April celebration. March is all about preparation in my vegetable garden.
Vegetables are hungry feeders, so your soil preparation is essential for good, strong, healthy growth throughout your entire growing season. With the best months to start planting out your vegetable garden in the Whitsundays being April and May, soil preparation starts now.
Right now. Today!
Adding aged compost and manure to your garden beds now will improve your veggie growing success tenfold. Dig it into your soil and then cover it with mulch (my go to is cut sugar cane mulch) to keep weeds at bay, regulate soil temperature and keep in moisture (yes I know, it’s hard to believe but before long that will be an issue).
You’ll want to leave this to sit for a good two to three weeks before you start planting.
COMPOST OPTIONS
In a perfect world you would make your own compost. However, in a time poor world this is not something everyone prioritises. Whitpro has numerous bagged compost options you can improve your soil with, it’s a very important part of your vegie growing process, so get started today and reap the rewards in the coming months.
MANURE OPTIONS
Poultry manure is my go-to, but you don’t want to burn your new seedlings, so be careful if you have your own chooks and you are transferring it into your garden. Make sure it has been aged and use this sparingly. Alternatively, if you don’t have chooks then Whitpro has bagged manure ready to go straight into your garden beds. Worm castings are another bagged option and being new to Whitpro supplies, it will be something I’ll be playing with this season.
TOP TIP
Just starting on your veggie growing adventure, want to involve the children or wanting to expand your veggie growing space?
How about investing in landscape rings, they are easy to put in place and then simply fill with soil, they are raised, they look good, and you can simply remove them once the growing season is done if you have other future plans for the space. Whitpro has different sizes available, I’ve added five to my growing space this year. Watch this space.
St Paul’s Anglican Church in Proserpine is holding their annual Cent Sale which is due to take place this Saturday.
This year the event will be held at a different venue, with the Proserpine Show Pavilion becoming the site of the Cent Sale.
Doors are set to open at 11.30am for a 12.30pm start.
Admission of $5 includes Lucky Door prize and a Devonshire tea.
Raffles and lots of wonderful prizes to be won.
All money raised goes to the maintenance of this heritage listed Church.
WHAT: Cent Sale
WHERE: Proserpine Show Pavilion
WHEN: Saturday 16 March from 11.30am
A sub-adult Green Sea Turtle was released back into the wild over the weekend, this milestone moment symbolising the collaboration between several entities and the hard work of many volunteers at Eco Barge Cleans Seas.
Floyd was rescued by Port of Airlie Marina staff last month when they noticed he was struggling to swim.
Upon further investigation, it was discovered that Floyd’s front flipper had been entangled with a fishing line, some of which had also been ingested.
Floyd received care at the Turtle Rescue Centre and made an excellent recovery, enabling him to be released back to the ocean on Saturday afternoon.
Upon release, Floyd was fitted with a satellite tracker which was donated by North Queensland Bulk Ports.
This is the first time this technology has been used at the Whitsunday Turtle Rescue Centre and it is already providing critical insights for Eco Barge Clean Seas to study Floyd’s movements, enhance their understanding of Green Sea Turtle behaviour and aid in their conservation efforts.
Libby Edge, founder of Eco Barge Clean Seas said she was thrilled to be involved with Floyd’s release and celebrate this milestone moment with everyone.
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to Port of Airlie Marina and North Queensland Bulk Ports for their invaluable contribution in the rescue, care, and release of Floyd,” she said.
To celebrate the success and ongoing partnership, it was also announced this week that Cruise Whitsundays and Eco barge Clean Seas have partnered together again, both entities dedicated to preserving and conserving the marine and ocean life of the Whitsundays.
"As a non-profit, strong partnerships like this are essential for fulfilling our mission," Libby notes gratefully.
"We are thrilled to continue our collaboration with Cruise Whitsundays, which has been instrumental in our joint efforts, including rescuing turtles from various locations across the Whitsundays.
"We are indeed fortunate to have such unwavering support, which enables us to reach and rescue turtles in remote island locations.”
Liza Muller, Sales and Marketing Manager of Cruise Whitsundays, expresses pride in supporting such a vital local initiative.
She remarks, "Libby and her dedicated team at Eco Barge Clean Seas exhibit immense passion and commitment towards preserving the pristine beauty of the Whitsundays.
“This ethos perfectly aligns with Cruise Whitsundays' dedication to safeguarding the remarkable environment in which we operate."
Eco Barge Clean Seas was established in 2009, a not-for-profit organisation looking to safeguard the marine life and environment of the Whitsunday region, with programs such as marine debris removal, recycling, and repurposing ocean plastics, and providing care and rehibition at their Turtle Rescue Centre.
Since its inception, Eco Barge Clean Seas has successfully removed over 250,160 kilograms of rubbish from the Whitsunday waters.
1: Libby Edge, Founder of Eco Barge Clean Seas holding Floyd with satellite tracker. On the left, a representative from North Queensland Bulk Ports who supplied the tracker. Photo supplied
2: Eco Barge Clean Seas volunteers and Cruise Whitsundays representatives who helped release Floyd over the weekend. Photo supplied
3: The satellite tracker showing where Floyd has been over the last week. Photo supplied.
And just like that, my final paper for Whitsunday Life has rolled around. It feels like a lifetime ago that I put my resignation in with Rach and the team, where I cried and Rach tried hard to not cry with me.
And it feels like an eternity ago that I was welcomed into this great team, as a fledging journo with big dreams and a bigger need to develop my skills. But this team have been great, allowing me the ability to grow my skills, with tasteful and constructive criticism, dealing with my spelling ‘trail’ as ‘trial’ during my first week, and laughing with me when I somehow use the entirely wrong name throughout an article.
And outside of work, I have flourished in so many ways.
But no matter, I have evolved into an entirely different person, one that is less afraid to sign up for team sports, or joining a Pilates class, or going on friend-dates. I’m not going to lie, these situations still make me nervous as all heck, but I have proven to myself that I can do these things, that I can make friends through these avenues, and that I actually enjoy getting out and about.
Now, I am about to start a new chapter in my life.
I am moving to be closer to my family, in regional New South Wales. I am starting a new job, in a community engagement role with youth mental health, which will see me organising events and hosting workshops for children between the ages of 12 and 25.
I will have to embrace the chill of a New England winter, but considering I was able to survive a Whitsunday summer, this will not be hard! And I will be sharing pics of me all rugged up in thick winter coats with the Whitsunday Life team.
So yes, this will probably be the last time you’ll hear from me, but you never know what the future holds.
I wish to thank everyone over the course of this past year for everything you have helped me with, for allowing me to grow, to challenge, and to flourish in the beautiful Airlie Beach.
Signing off,
Bronte
Over 60 do-gooding locals braved the high temperatures and great humidity over the weekend to participate in the Clean Up Australia Day held at Coral Sea Marina
This annual event is part of the broader national event which takes place on the first week of March each year and has seen 21 million Australians participate over the last 33 years.
Our local event is hosted in partnership with Tangaroa Blue and Reef Clean and this year, over 100 kilograms of litter was collected from Cannonvale Beach through to the Airlie Beach foreshore.
The passionate team from Tangaroa Blue and Reef Clean sorted a huge sample of the litter collected and entered the data into the Australian Marine Debris Initiative database, which then provides a valuable source of measured information from which education and source reduction programs can be developed.
From discarded clothing to food packaging and car parts, all types of litter were collected throughout the day.
Joscelyn O’Keefe, Coral Sea Marina’s Head of Marketing and Business Development, said she was happy with the turnout.
“This was our biggest year yet in terms of volume collected - 100kg of litter in two-hours is a terrific effort from all those who participated.
“We are incredibly grateful to all who gave up their morning in the sweltering heat to give back to our beautiful region.”
Volunteers from the Coral Sea Marina Clean Up Australia Day. Photos supplied
Residents of Bowen are welcome to step forward and help shape Bowen’s lasting legacy and the future of the Bowen Jetty, by taking part in the Enquiry by Design (EbD) process and complete in a community wide survey.
North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) CEO Brendan Webb said around 50 key stakeholders from diverse backgrounds will be brought together over two days of workshops for the EbD.
“We’re already engaging with a range of stakeholders from local government, community groups, local businesses, and landowners,” Mr Webb said.
“There’s an additional five positions available for community members demonstrating how critical the community is to the decision-making process.”
Successful applicants will have the opportunity to participate in one of two workshops facilitated by global consultancy firm, Arup, scheduled for March.
“The workshops will help inform a draft concept which will be shared with the Bowen community for feedback in June by survey,” Mr Webb said.
“We want to work with the local community to hear their ideas so we can create a Jetty that meets their needs.”
Arup’s Project Director Shy Tay said participants will explore and test design ideas and gain an understanding of local issues, opportunities, and constraints.
“It is an inclusive, consultation-led process and an impactful way to build consensus and understanding,” Mr Tay said.
“It’s a once-in-a-generation opportunity to create a Bowen Jetty that will honour the past and serve the generations of today and tomorrow.”
On the other hand, the community survey will act to uncover how the community want to use the Bowen Jetty.
“Before the design process starts, tell us what you think is important, how you want to see the jetty used in the future, and any ideas you have for the new design,” Mr Webb said.
“This community survey will inform the Concept Design and is open from 4-31 March.
“In June, we will be coming back to the community with a draft concept of the future Bowen Jetty for their feedback.
“We have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to create a Bowen Jetty that will honour the past and serve the generations of today and tomorrow.”
The community survey opens Monday March 4 till March 31, and nominations for the Enquiry by Design open Monday March 4 till March 18.
To find out more, visit nqbp.com.au/our-ports/abbot-point/bowen-wharf-project
The Bowen Jetty is steeped in Bowen history. Photo supplied
Whitsunday Water Police have revised and are now enforcing a new six-knot speed limit in Lake Proserpine.
This new speed limit is in waters adjacent to the public use area, extending from the shoreline of the dam’s heavy use area out to approximately 100 metres.
The new six-knot speed limit applies to all vessels, including jet skis and other personal watercraft.
All water users are urged to follow the new speed limit, with penalties up to $365 applying.
The region’s Lions Clubs have celebrated their 2024 Zone Youth of the Year competition, with a lively speech competition held in Collinsville last weekend.
The four regional Lions Clubs, Bowen, Proserpine, Whitsunday, and Home Hill-Ayr each sent a local student to Collinsville for the Zone final.
Each student spoke with confidence and poise, their prepared speech eloquently spoken and performed, and their two impromptu speeches delivered with educated knowledge.
All the students should be commended on their excellent performance.
Bowen’s Lions candidate, Ryland Gaffney of Bowen State High School returned home as the overall winner of the event, with Mia Vloedmans of Proserpine State High School receiving the award for Public Speaking.
Mia delivered the same speech she delivered at the local Club competition last month about her journey with Type 1 Diabetes but came up against different impromptu questions about school attendance and preferences on being an employee to being a boss.
Mia said she was grateful for the experience the Lion’s Youth of the Year Competition provided.
“I’ve been able to improve my public speaking skills and having to think on my feet,” she said.
“I also had to be up to date with news and current affairs for answering questions in my interview.”
Ryland’s prepared speech explored the role the media has on domestic violence and reporting against women and their children, particularly with the murder of Australian woman Hannah Clarke and her three young children.
“This topic is important to me as the media has a profound impact on shaping public perceptions and a topic such as domestic violence deserve accurate reporting for those impacted,” Ryland explained.
For the impromptu questions, Ryland took the questions in his stride, relating the topics to his personal life.
Ryland will now represent the Zone in Townsville at the District Final on March 16.
“I am very keen to move onto the district finals and am very privileged,” Ryland explained.
“I have had immense support from my school and community which has motivated me to strive for the best.
“While the competition is bound to be tough, I am prepared to give the other competitors a run for their money fuelled by the support I’ve received.
“A special mention to my grandma who has supported me along this journey!”
1: Jacob Machin of Collinsville State High School, Mia Vloedmans from Proserpine State High School, Ryland Gaffney from Bowen State High School, and Maeve Hornstra of St Catherine’s Catholic College
1. Mia Vloedmans and Ryland Gaffney at Zone Finals of Youth of the Year
2. Ryland with his grandmother. Photos supplied
Abbot Point Operations has celebrated 40 years of exports from their terminal just north of Bowen, with the 6,902nd vessel safely berthing and loaded with 60,000 tonnes of coking coal.
It was 1984 when the Fukukawa Maru, the first vessel for the terminal, arrived at the facility, loaded with coal from Bowen or the Galilee Basin mines, to be exported across the world.
Abbot Point Operations General Manager Port Operations Allan Brown said the milestone was a credit to the hundreds of local workers who had maintained the Terminal for more than a generation.
“Our people are our business, and they are the foundation of 40 years of dedicated best practice in operating and maintaining this critical piece of national infrastructure,” Mr Brown said.
“From the production crew to the pilots, the tradespeople to the train drivers, and the engineers to the enviros, each member of our dedicated team has played a vital role in shaping the success story of the North Queensland Export Terminal.
“We’re proud of our role in helping transport high-quality Queensland metallurgical and thermal coal to the world where it advances development and provides affordable and reliable energy that lifts people out of poverty.
“And as Bowen locals we are equally proud of our efforts to ‘Grow Local’ and provide jobs, training, and corporate giving that contribute to the economic and social fabric of our community.
“It’s been wonderful to come together as a team to celebrate this milestone, reflect on the journey so far, as well as chart a course for the next 40 years.”
Abbot Point Operations celebrated the milestone with an anniversary cake at a 400-strong team morning tea.
1. APO General Manager Port Operations Allan Brown and NQXT General Manager Mark Smith cut the 40th anniversary cake.
2. APO HSEC Manager Kate Mee and NQXT General Manager Mark Smith hand special anniversary gifts to the captain and crew of the BBG Liuzhou. Photos supplied
The first stage of Cape Edgecumbe’s upgrades has finally been unveiled, by the Whitsunday Regional Council.
Over 1,100 metres of walking tracks along the trail have been improved, including drainage, track widening, signage, safety rails at lookouts and new steps.
These works have taken place across the 750 metre trail from Rose Bay to Murray Bay, Mother Beddock lookout, and over 350 metres of Murray Bay ascent to Rotary Lookout.
Engagement and Place Coordinator Jonathan Cutting is proud to unveil the completed works.
“The trails are now significantly safer and more accessible for users to enjoy this beautiful habitat and some of the best views of Bowen surrounds,” he explained.
“We thank the community for their patience and our contractor Dirtscapes for their hard work in difficult terrain and hot weather.”
The Cape Edgecumbe Trail upgrades were supported by the Commonwealth Governments Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.
The Cape Edgecumbe Trail upgrades, boasting improved trails and steps. Photo supplied
On the eve of the Whitsunday Regional Council mayor election freelance journalist Samantha Conroy talks to candidate, former Liberal MP, Richard Evans, about community service and the importance of democracy.
Samantha Conroy (SC) – Why? Why are you nominating to become mayor?
Richard Evans (RE) – Excellent question. Julie Hall announced she wasn’t standing, and a number of community leaders asked me to consider nominating for mayor. My key criteria were to determine if I could make a difference for real change and continue Julie’s legacy. I can, so put my hand up.
SC – Why is community service so important for you?
RE – I was raised in a family that had a strong attitude towards community service. I started volunteering at a young age and have continued that service. Nowadays, I volunteer with VMR Whitsundays in their radio room, co-convening the Whitsundays Writers Festival, providing free training with our regional libraries on writing and publishing, providing pro-bono time to local businesses and Chambers of Commerce, and I’m a member of Probus. I guess, if we don’t contribute to the community by volunteering, then who will? President Kennedy said it well and I’ll paraphrase, “ask not what the community can do for you; ask what you can do for the community.’
SC – So, how is the campaign progressing?
RE – I have had the privilege of meeting a lot of fine Whitsunday locals and this is one of the true benefits in being a representative of the community. There are wonderful stories out there and I am lucky enough to hear them. There is also a lot of concern and challenges, and I am grateful to those who have shared their experiences with me. The campaign is going well, although I reckon apathy is a big issue.
SC – Apathy? What have you seen that allows you to say that?
RE – Most folks don’t know the political system in Australia. Many reckon all politicians are liars, even my dad said that once to me when I was a federal MP. Many in our community have lost faith and trust in democracy, and they are frustrated with local government. They generally reckon things won’t change; I want to change that.
SC – Can it change?
RE – If we elect the right people, it can. If voters don’t care for who they vote for and why, we might as well keep that ‘dodo’ billboard on the Bruce Highway. I haven’t met anyone happy with council, which is a shame. I have been working hard to explain why I am running and what to expect if elected mayor. I have released policy statements on the major issues of council accountability, economic development, arts and culture, the environment, and women and girls. I am on the record for what I will do, what I stand for. I am yet to see any other candidate do that.
SC – Independent?
RE – Totally, but I must disclose I was an elected member of the Liberal Party in the federal parliament. I worked hard to represent my electorate and established national policy and laws on issues relating to the arts, feral cats, breast cancer research, disability funding, and mandatory business codes of conduct. I’m big on codes of conduct that modify and improve attitudes, behaviour, and practices.
SC – Any campaign moments that have made you laugh?
RE – There’s a few but I reckon a dog raising its leg and blasting my water bottle at Bowen Community Markets is close to the top.
SC – Why should I vote for you?
RE – You have a clear choice. More of the same or head in another direction of accountability to bring the Whitsunday pride back. There is way too much dis-unity, way too much of ‘us versus them’, way too much frustration with council, and way too much complaining. I get it and I want to fix it. If you want real change, then I bring an enormous amount of experience, capability, and a plan to start from day one.
• Star sign? Virgo.
• Favourite colour? Red.
• Favourite holiday destination? The Whitsundays of course, and Paris.
• What do you eat for breakfast? None, but I enjoy a cup of tea.
• What’s the last song you listened to? It wasn’t Tay Tay, I was singing Hotel California
• The best book/movie/podcast you listened to so far this year? The Campaign, hilarious.
• Fav Quote: It’s the extra things ordinary people do that make them extraordinary.
• Tell Us Something most people don't know about you? When I was a politician, Eric Bana parodied me in a segment on the comedy skit show Full Frontal.
• Describe your personality in three words: Enjoys a Beer
Executive Leadership
• Australian Retailers Association, Executive Director
• Franchise Council of Australia, Executive Director
• Fashion and Textiles Council of Australia, Executive Director
Corporate Management
• Wesfarmers Rural Newspaper Division, Advertising Manager
• Griffin Coal Group Advertising Division, NSW & WA General Manager
• LJ Hooker Retail Management & Leasing, Senior Shopping Centre Manager
Business Owner & Operator
• Conroy Llewellyn & Evans, Advocacy advisory
• Malthouse Group, Mentor and Strategic Consultant
• Priority Management (WA franchisee), Management productivity consultant
Board Directorships
• Fellow Australian Company Directors Institute
• Australian Association of Practice Management
• Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry
• World Franchise Council
• Western Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Regulatory Bodies
Member of the following bodies:
• Australian Tax Office Industry Group
• Australian Competition and Consumer Commission
• Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission
• Food and Grocery Code of Conduct
• Office of Franchise Mediator
Politics
• Federal Member of Parliament for Cowan (WA). Liberal Party.
• Parliamentary Committee Member for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs; Community Affairs; Environment, Recreation and the Arts; Industry, Science and Technology; Long Term Strategies; and Publications.
• Joint House Committee Member for Broadcasting of Parliamentary Proceedings and Public Works.
Qualifications & Certifications
• Bachelor of Arts (Industrial Relations major), University of Western Australia
• Graduate Certificate in Tertiary Teaching, Curtin University
• Master of Creative Writing, University of Canberra
• Certified Mediator
Whitsundays Community
• Small business mentor
• VMR Whitsunday, radio base volunteer
• Whitsunday Regional Libraries, pro-bono trainer in writing and publishing
• Whitsundays Writers Festival, pro-bono Festival Co-convenor
• Local author of eight fiction and one business book
• Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry, pro-bono Policy Officer and Strategic Advisor representing the Chamber on the Queensland Small Business Commissioner’s Regional Roundtable and Business Chamber Queensland’s Industrial Relations Taskforce (1 May 2023-9 February 2024).
Heading at bottom
Vote 1 Richard Evans –
Integrity, Unity, Leadership
In small point size
Authorised by: Richard Evans, 12/12 Eshelby Drive, Cannonvale, Qld, 4802
Part Two
Text to go in the gutter of the page.
Heading
Main - Evans releases policy statements
Sub Head – The only candidate to do so publicly.
Get rid of ticks.
Investing in Whitsunday Women and Girls
This policy statement outlines initiatives I will deliver as your mayor that prioritise Whitsunday women and girls that will have positive flow on affect to the entire community:
✔️ Establish formal pathways that provides a greater voice to Whitsunday women and girls.
✔️ Explore collaborations and initiatives that elevate education and workforce opportunities.
✔️ Activate Council property and spaces to support business enterprise, acceleration, and connection.
✔️ Implement initiatives that celebrate and communicate accomplishments of Whitsunday women and girls.
Elevating Accountability and Performance in Whitsunday Regional Council.
With a focus on addressing community concerns regarding overspending, lack of transparency, and governance inefficiencies, I pledge to implement the following nine initiatives:
✔️ Council Code of Conduct
✔️ Financial Accountability
✔️ Clear Performance Expectations and KPIs
✔️ Performance Reviews and Recognition
✔️ Transparent Decision-Making Processes
✔️ Community Consultation and Engagement
✔️ Ratepayer Engagement Framework
✔️ Continuous Improvement
✔️ Mayoral Strategy
Advancing our Culture, Heritage, and Arts
My policy statement on culture, heritage and arts not only aims to enrich the lives of our residents but also recognises the significant role arts and culture play in fostering social health and cohesion, Whitsunday pride, and economic prosperity.
As your mayor, I will action:
✔️ Develop a robust strategy and establish improved governance for effective and responsible systems, funding allocation, and resourcing to future proof our culture, heritage and arts.
✔️ Feasibility for short-term initiatives that could better active current council spaces and resource regional events and activities.
✔️ Curate a long-term vision that looks to the next 20 to 50 years that could elevate our regional as a leading national cultural destination.
Economic Development: Unleashing Prosperity, Sustaining Tradition
I envision a future where the Whitsundays region is a beacon of innovation and inclusivity. Through strategic planning, considered approaches, and collaboration we can unlock our region’s full potential and not embark on development for progress’ sake.
As your mayor, I will action:
✔️ Prioritise housing as an essential economic strategy.
✔️ Infrastructure development required for better business and investment attraction.
✔️ Showcase the Whitsundays as a destination for business, employees, and investment.
Balancing Progress & Preservation: An Environment Policy for the Whitsundays
My position on the environment is this: I am not a prohibitionist, but an adaptationist with a focus on having a balanced, informed position between conservation and progress.
As your mayor, I will action:
✔️ An audit of the Council’s Community Plan 2022/2032 to better understand and elevate accountability and engagement.
✔️ Engage with the region’s Traditional Owners to deepen our respecting First Nations heritage and environmental practices.
✔️ Stronger environmental positions and practices on biodiversity conservation, climate change, sustainable practices for home and at work, heat mitigation, energy-efficient town planning, and habitat conservation just to name a few.
Bottom notice
All policies statements available online at: www.richard4mayor.com
Get To Know Peter Hood
Mayoral Candidate
Tell us about where you have lived over the course of your life:
Central Coast NSW, Perth WA, New Zealand, USA, Middle East, and then fell in love with The Whitsundays from 1997 to the present time. The Whitsunday is my home.
What careers, education and experience has led you to this point?
I attended James Ruse Agriculture College Carlingford NSW and from Central Coast NSW. I moved to Perth at the age of 17 to take up a cadet accountant training position whilst attending Uni part time to fully qualify as a practising accountant at the age of 23.
I started my own accounting practice at the age of 24. Became a member of CPA Australia in 1977; a registered Company and Forensic Auditor in 1978, and a Tax Agent in 1977. Created the AccountantConnect.net.au business network in 2004. I am now a Fellow of CPA Australia.
Tell us a bit about you:
Two children, a partner in life, dog and lorikeet who are inseparable. Tennis, camping, and air travel with lifestyle interests in Queenstown, New Zealand, that also extend with to my connection to substantial client tourism business affairs in The Whitsundays and NZ’s Dunedin, Christchurch, and Queenstown.
Time to share – Tell us an anecdote about something funny, inspiring, incredible or poignant that has happened in your life.
As a six-year-old fishing with my grandfather with his mates that stunk of fish; they were all wearing beanies 7pm at night at Wagstaff wharf with us kids fishing for squid. Then after Pop died to tearfully and laughingly discover that one of pops fish stinky mates was Spike Milligan; the lead voice in my favourite radio program; The Goon Show.
Here’s your 80-word elevator pitch – what makes you the best candidate for the job?
“They (WRC) know that I know.” With 70+ clients associating with WRC near-daily for 15+ years, I am more than reasonably informed on how WRC wastes its resources. If you want WRC business as usual, then vote for one of the other candidates. If you want meaningful change, then vote for me. After 16 years of pain, it is now time for The Whitsundays to stop stuffing around and call a spade a spade!
Clay Bauman
Division 2 Candidate
Tell us about where you have lived over the course of your life:
Born in Brisbane, at 21 I travelled and worked around the world in film and TV. Having visited Airlie over the years I would drive over the hill into town and often dreamt of seeing my boat in the bay. 15 years ago, that dream came true and I’ve loved every minute of my time here. Can’t say I get to go sailing as much as I used to, but that makes it all the more special when I do.
What careers, education and experience has led you to this point?
I started studying architecture which probably grounds my strengths in planning. I chose editing TV and was headhunted for editor in Europe’s first digital post production facility, then as a technical director for NBC New York. In Oz I received The Cinematography Society Gold Award for work I was producing and directing. That gave me the experience of managing multiple departments, people and budgets, plus the research and technical skills that allow me to comprehend the many operations of Council.
Tell us a bit about you:
There is just my lovely lady and me. We lost our little furry friend at the end of his long life, almost exactly a year ago. We're still not ready to replace him but will take in another rescue when we are. Free time is far less since becoming Councillor, but we enjoy the time we get sailing, walking and going to local restaurants. I’m active in many groups and it’s the other volunteers that inspire me to continue.
Time to share – Tell us an anecdote about something funny, inspiring, incredible or poignant that has happened in your life.
My sailing nickname is Humphrey. That’s because I actually was Humphrey B. Bear for his live performances in Brisbane.
Here’s your 80-word elevator pitch – what makes you the best candidate for the job?
I’m a current resident of Cannonvale. I’ve walked the streets mapping the missing footpaths. I drive the streets daily, but it’s not just that I’m a local; I’ve had the world experience, the choice to live anywhere and I’ve chosen here. I think I recognise, like you, how special this place is, it’s not just “’the beach”, it’s an internationally recognised natural asset that can give us and future generations security, but only if we do it right.
Quick Fire Round:
Star sign: Libra
Favourite colour: Blue
Favourite holiday destination? Sailing
What do you eat for breakfast: Poached eggs on vegemite toast
What’s the last song you listened to? David Flower playing live at Montes
The best thing you’ve seen this year: “Never let a good disaster go to waste” written by an old friend’s talented wife
Fav Quote: “There is nothing permanent except change”
Tell Us Something most people don't know about you? I built my own computer and my desk
Describe your personality in three words: Caring, conscientious and creative
Phil Batty
Mayoral Candidate
Tell us about where you have lived over the course of your life:
Originally born in Yorkshire England, I emigrated to Australia, with my wife Sue and our two daughters, 34 years ago this year settling in Melbourne for 11 years before coming to the Whitsundays in 2002 to Manage Daydream Island.
What careers, education and experience has led you to this point?
After leaving grammar school I became an apprentice engineer then took a career change into hospitality. Working my way up from kitchen hand to the Executive General Manager of Food and Beverage at Crown Casino in Melbourne, the largest single site hospitality role in the Southern Hemisphere. Also looking after the 2012 London Olympics, The Australian Open Tennis, The Australian Formula One and many others.
Tell us a bit about you:
Happily married to Sue for almost 45 years, renewed our vows on Whitehaven Beach after 25 years. Two amazing daughters both working for the Ambulance Service and six grandchildren, four girls and two boys. We have a nine-year-old Moodle named Pepi. In my spare time I love to play golf, I was President of Proserpine Golf Club until late last year.
Time to share – Tell us an anecdote about something funny, inspiring, incredible or poignant that has happened in your life.
My proudest moment in recent times which brought tears to my eyes was when I presented the Airlie Beach Flashmob Video to the people who made it happen. Hundreds of locals, dozens of businesses, thousands of hours all pulling together to create something truly special. It was the most amazing community event I have ever organised and has enjoyed the most social media success for the Whitsundays in history. If you are not one of the 1.7 million people, do yourself a favour and watch it, you will have tears too.
Here’s your 80 word elevator pitch – what makes you the best candidate for the job?
Apart from my experience managing people, organisations and businesses, P&L’s and budgets of hundreds of millions I have a passion and a care for this region which is unsurpassed and demonstrated on many occasions. A sitting councillor told me last week it would be unbelievable for anyone who has never even attended a council meeting to think they can stand for Councillor let alone Mayor. I am the only candidate who has attended many council meetings in the past two years, asked many questions in council.
Quick Fire Round:
Star sign: Gemini
Favourite colour: Blue
Favourite holiday destination: Paris
What do you eat for breakfast: Cereal
What’s the last song you listened to? Sweet Caroline
The best thing you’ve seen this year? Equaliser 3
Fav Quote: “Whether you think you can or you think you can’t, you are probably right”
Tell us something most people don't know about you? Softy at heart
Describe your personality in three words: Honest, Caring, Reliable
John Finlay
Division 6 Candidate
Tell us about where you have lived over the course of your life?
I am originally from Bundaberg and grew up there and met my amazing wife Pam and commenced my first position in the Bundaberg City Council. For advancement and experience in Councils we moved to Mirani (Mirani Shire Council) and then to Biloela (Banana Shire Council). We moved to Bowen in 1996 to commence the position of Director of Financial Services with the Bowen Shire Council. We built a house in Bowen and have lived there since.
Tell us a bit about you:
We have wonderful children and grandchildren and our dogs and cat like plenty of attention. I love the walking on the beach and the Edgcumbe Heights track, kayaking around the bays, boating and fishing and golfing as well as watching sports including rugby league, motor racing, basketball and surfing.
Here’s your 80-word elevator pitch – what makes you the best candidate for the job?
The qualities and attributes I have to undertake the role are my community values and involvement including economic development, my professional qualifications including Fellow of Certified Practising Accountants Australia and local government qualifications and my professional employment including owning and managing an accounting business in Bowen and the Whitsunday, former roles in Councils being Chief Executive Officers, and Directors of Corporate and Financial Services.
Quick Fire Round:
Star sign: Cancer
Favourite colour: Green
Favourite holiday destination: The waterfalls in the Atherton Tablelands
What do you eat for breakfast: Special K
What’s the last song you listened to: Waymaker
Fav Quote: “Every champion was once a contender who refused to give up”
Tell Us Something most people don't know about you? I love to be still
Describe your personality in three words: Positive, Caring, Visionary
Get To Know Tony Price
Division 2 Candidate
Tell us about where you have lived over the course of your life:
My family moved to Cannonvale in 1959, my mother was a long-time local (Faust family - in area since 1880s). I’ve lived here ever since apart from five-years in Brisbane looking after terminally ill in-laws. I was educated in Proserpine, I lived there until I purchased a home in Cannonvale. Over the years, we’ve lived in two homes in Cannonvale. Currently renovating a house in Proserpine (been in family since 1910) and intend to build on our dream block at Jessies Way, Cannonvale.
What careers, education and experience has led you to this point?
I’ve worked in Banking (1972-1974), Tyre Industry (1974-1992), Whitsunday Division 2 Councillor (six years) and Tourism Whitsundays. I built and ran the Cannonvale Tyre Service/Service Station and owned the Palace Hotel in Proserpine from 1995 to 2004. A career highlight was writing a 400-page ‘History of Queensland Rugby League’ (500 photos) which was sold through Dymocks and QBD. I’ve donated hundreds of books to schools around Queensland.
Tell us a bit about you:
I love dogs and have had heaps over the years but they curtail travel so none now. Four children - Leighann, Shannon, Kieran and Kathleen - and 11 grandkids. I’m heavily involved in the rugby league community on a Queensland wide basis and last week donated $6,000.00 to local juniors from a fundraising reunion we organised in the Whitsundays.
Time to share – Tell us an anecdote about something funny, inspiring, incredible or poignant that has happened in your life.
The first time I ran for Council some community members were saying ‘A Vote for Tony Price would be a vote for Proserpine’. At the time I owned a business, lived in Cannonvale and my wife was teaching at Cannonvale State School. Election was held, I was elected to represent the Whitsunday Coast and soon won over my detractors simply by being tenacious and fighting for the rights of my electorate – Division 2.
Here’s your 80-word elevator pitch – what makes you the best candidate for the job?
I can get the job done. I know my stuff and will fight for Division 2. During my tenure as Whitsunday Councillor, I always found a way to get other councillors on-side and voting in favour for projects and improvements for the Cannonvale area – to do this you need tenacity, communication and negotiation skills as well as region-wide support. I’m community, business and tourism focussed and can progress many things in Division 2 and our Whitsunday Region.
Quick Fire Round:
Star sign: Gemini
Favourite colour: Green (Irish)
Favourite holiday destination: Airlie Beach
What do you eat for breakfast: Eggs on toast
What’s the last song you listened to: 7-Spanish Angels (Highway Men)
The best thing you’ve seen this year? ABC Australian made series with Bryan Brown called ‘Darby & Joan’
Fav Quote: Martin Luther King's last speech - I've been to the Mountaintop
Tell Us Something most people don't know about you? The Chairman of the Gold Coast Titans Rugby League team (Dennis Watt) referred to me in print as, “Australia’s leading, living rugby league historian”
Describe your personality in three words: Honest, Loyal, Tenacious
Ry Collins
Mayoral Candidate
Tell us about where you have lived over the course of your life:
Originally from Currumbin on the Gold Coast, I've lived a good part of my life in South-East Queensland and much of my professional career in Brisbane and some short-term stints interstate. I'm coming into my sixth year living in the Whitsundays but had prior stints here first establishing a house in Cannonvale in 2013. My journey to this area was inspired by its natural beauty and desire to have my kids grow up in an area like what I had known growing up.
What careers, education and experience has led you to this point?
I've had a diverse career across a number of industries which has allowed me to develop a strong set of transferable skills which will benefit me in this role. Leaving school, I studied business whilst also finding work with family in the construction industry. This led to 15 years in the construction industry as a manager delivering major projects in SEQ such as the Gateway Bridge duplication and Q1 tower. In need of a change and with a passion for people, I side stepped into the education and training sector supporting young people into Apprenticeships through the federal government's AASN program for five years before making the life change with my family to the Whitsundays, taking a contract role with WRC's Economic development unit. This role allowed me to develop wonderful connections in our key industries, supporting them through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and providing a platform into my current role as the CEO of Bowen Gumlu Growers among other board roles that I currently hold supporting Economic development and advocacy in our region.
Tell us a bit about you:
Family and community are my anchors. I'm a husband and a parent to two beautiful girls and a proud dog owner. Most of my voluntary work is in advancing our regional prosperity with board and committees such as GW3, RDA Greater Whitsunday and Bowen Collinsville enterprise. As a parent there is no such thing as free time, but I try to spend as much time with family as possible including the girls dancing, swimming, travelling and going on family hikes and other adventures in our area.
Here’s your 80-word elevator pitch – what makes you the best candidate for the job?
I am the best candidate for mayor because of my unique blend of current experience, passion, and vision for our community. My diverse business and economic development background and deep involvement in community service have equipped me with the skills, relationships and apathy necessary to lead council effectively. I am committed to advancing a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable community, addressing challenges with innovative solutions, and ensuring that the voices of all residents are heard and valued. These are also things I am already doing as a leader for our agricultural industry. Together, with your support we can build a brighter future for the Whitsundays.
Quick Fire Round
Star sign: Aquarius
Favourite colour: Blue
Favourite holiday destination: Too many to note but I like to see new places for the first time
What do you eat for breakfast: Fruit and yoghurt, bacon and eggs on the weekend
What’s the last song you listened to? John Fogerty, Looking Out My Back Door
The best thing you’ve seen this year? Oppenheimer
Fav Quote: 'Well done is better than well said'
Tell Us Something most people don't know about you? I'm a great cook
Describe your personality in three words: Creative, Problem solving, passionate
Registrations are open for the Chamber's inaugural Whitsundays Business Conference!
The Conference will be held Friday 31 May and will bring together the region’s business community and stakeholders. The morning program will be hosted in Proserpine, with afternoon practical workshops and a Sundowner cocktail networking event held in Cannonvale.
The program is shaping up to be rich in content and highly informative and is designed for attendees to walk away with specific strategies they can implement straight way.
There will be networking and a series of thought-provoking sessions on Building Business Together; The Benefits & Impact of AI and Cybersecurity in Business; Features, Drivers, & Myths About the Future Workforce; and Driving Business Growth and Turning Business On Its Head.
Thanks to our inaugural major sponsors Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine, My Pathway, Shiift, Tassal through their local presence with the Proserpine Prawn Farm, Whitsunday Regional Council, TAFE Queensland Whitsunday Campus, and Mackay and Whitsunday Life for their generous support in bringing this important regional event to life!
Have you been enjoying our new article series featuring Chamber members? Head over to the Chamber’s Facebook page to learn more about their members and the Ask An Expert series. Got a business question you want answered? Visit the Chamber’s website or social media to ask your question for an expert response.
Did you know? You can join the Chamber any time, your membership is valid for 12-months from day of joining. We have five membership categories starting from $99 per year to suit a range of needs. We look forward to engaging you in Chamber life and the Whitsundays business community.
Over 60 local residents attended a lively Mayoral Candidates Forum held by the Whitsunday Conservation Council at the Reef Gateway Hotel last Wednesday evening.
Candidates Phil Batty, Richard Evans and Ry Collins all took to the stage to answer questions given by facilitator and well-known local environmentalist, Tony Fontes.
The fourth candidate, Peter Hood, was invited to participate but chose to sit in the audience, saying that his position as an accountant forbid him take part.
In making this assertion, Hood caused quite a disturbance during the opening speech, standing from within the crowd and yelling toward the front.
Organisers quickly instructed him to sit down and asked him to leave unless he could remain seated and listen like everyone else.
The rest of the evening progressed in a civilised and democratic manner with each candidate taking their turn to inform the audience of their views on seven different questions.
There were seven main topics which included liveability, the reef, sustainability, biodiversity, town planning, the village atmosphere of Airlie Beach area and Council transparency.
Phil Batty held the current council account, producing a range of documents that supported his assertion that the Council had funding and permission to implement certain projects but had failed to do so on several occasions throughout the years.
Richard Evans spoke frankly and earnestly without needing to refer to notes, instead offering case studies which showed how he had sent his time actively communicating with the general public over the past few weeks.
Ry Collins gave evidence of his passion for community, liveability, and environment, illustrating well-prepared and thorough answers addressing the key issues with sound knowledge and consistency.
Afterwards, Tony Fontes asked several impromptu questions gathered from the community and given to the candidates.
These covered similar subjects, but narrowed in on some of the key issues.
Each candidate was given two minutes to deliver their responses and a bell would ring 30 seconds before the end so they could conclude within time.
Open to everyone in the community, the forum attracted a broad spectrum of people who were all interested in making an informed decision about who they would vote for next Saturday.
Caption:
1: Mayoral candidates – Phil Batty, Richard Evans and Ry Collins at the Whitsunday Conservation Council Mayoral Candidate Forum last Wednesday. Photo credit: Rachael Smith
2: Mayoral Candidate Peter Hood disrupts the forum but is soon asked to take a seat. Photo credit: Rachael Smith
Rosanagh Gallivan comes to the region with a wealth of knowledge, expertise and experience to her new role with Tourism Whitsundays, as Public Relations and Social Media Executive.
Here is more about Rosanagh:
What is your role at Tourism Whitsundays? I've recently taken on the role of Public Relations and Social Media Executive which means I will be involved in all thing's media relationships, stories, and social media marketing for The Whitsundays.
What made you chose The Whitsundays? Being new to the tourism industry I couldn't think of a more iconic Australian destination to be a part of! I am also a big fan of the island life, which made the decision even more appealing. I can't wait to explore more of the region!
What are you most looking forward to doing in your new role? Leveraging our social media platforms to showcase the magic of The Whitsundays to the rest of Australia and also internationally, as well as meeting the members of Tourism Whitsundays who make up this beautiful part of the world.
What is one thing about The Whitsundays, as a new resident, you think everyone should know? Even in my short time here I've been amazed at how much is on offer for such a diverse audience. The Whitsundays goes so far beyond being either a backpacker or honeymoon destination, with attractions, accommodation, and activities to suit everyone. My initial experience here has been nothing short of amazing, and as a newcomer to the region, I hope I can bring a fresh perspective.
Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine is excited to announce the appointment of Amanda Anderson as its new Branch Manager.
“We are delighted to have Cannonvale local and active community member Amanda Anderson join the Branch team. She is a welcome inclusion for our Branch team, customers, and shareholders. We look forward to her contribution in 2024 and beyond” said Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine Chairman Mark Henry.
Amanda brings to the role over ten years branch management and banking specialist experience, and time spent in business development, property management, and small business ownership.
“I am really excited to be in a leadership role and lead a customer focused team,” said Amanda. “The opportunity to service the local community and help our customers with their home loan journey or assist them in building their investment portfolio is exciting.”
The Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine opened in June 2012 with the support of local shareholders who saw the value of the Community Bank model and raised $800,000 locally to establish a branch in the Whitsundays.
At Bendigo Bank, our customers and the community always win. Our success is based on our profit-with-a-purpose model which sees around 50 per cent of the profits generated by our independently owned and operated Cannonvale-Proserpine branch invested back into the community.
Over the past seven years Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine have invested just over $178,600 into local schools, social programs, sporting groups, arts and culture events, conservation initiatives, and community prizes.
“I chose to join the Community Bank as I would be proud to be part of an organisation that is so involved and invested in the local community with volunteering and sponsorship” she said.
“Our ability to invest in the local community is due to our branch team for delivering consistently high-quality customer service, our shareholders for backing the Whitsundays community, and all the passionate local directors past and present for their hard work and dedication”, said Mark.
Visit the Branch at Whitsunday Plaza Cannonvale or contact the team on phone 07 4948 3599 or email cannonvale&proserpinemailbox@bendigoadelaide.com.au
Community Owned Response to Eliminating Suicide, better known as CORES Queensland, is gearing up for another free, community focussed workshop for local residents.
This two-hour workshop will focus primarily on self-care and mental wellbeing, providing skills and resources to develop an individualised self-care and mental wellbeing plan, which includes activities to enhance physical, emotional and mental health on a daily basis.
The workshop will also explore the concept of self-care and mental wellbeing, how to identify personal signs of stress and simple strategies that can be used to manage individual stress levels on an everyday basis.
For more information, contact CORES at adminqld@kentishrc.com.au or phone 0448 894 525.
WHAT: Self Care & Mental Wellbeing Workshop
WHERE: Proserpine Community Centre, 36 Gardenia Street
WHEN: Thursday, March 21, from 1pm to 3pm
Cost: Free
REGISTER: https://bit.ly/3OXYnlM
Photo credit: Bronte Hodge and Rachael Smith
Proserpine State School student, Sophie Dening, has decided to cut her hair for kids with cancer.
Getting the big snip last Friday, Sophie has sent off the fallen locks to be repurposed into a wig for a child with cancer.
“I have beautiful hair with such a unique colour,” Sophie explained on her fundraising blog.
“I wanted to share my beautiful hair with someone who needs to feel beautiful.
“Kids with cancer unfortunately lose their hair due to necessary medical treatments to make them better. If one little girl could have a wig made from my hair, I know it would make her smile (and me),” she explained.
“I started growing my hair and this journey a couple of years ago so I could have it long enough for me to still have a bob cut when I get the big chop.”
Having been sent off last week, Sophie’s hair will arrive at the Wigs 4 Kids wig partner, Ella Wigmakers, to be constructed into a wig for a child with cancer.
Kids with Cancer Foundation support children and young families of pre-teen children, between the ages of 0 to 12 years old, that are experiencing financial difficulties due to their child being treated for cancer, along with doctors, nurses, social workers, and cancer research.
1. Sophie Dening’s big chop
2. Sophie sending off her hair donation, for her hair to be constructed into a wig for a child experiencing cancer. Photos supplied
Another massive name is Australian literature will be gracing the Whitsundays Writers Festival stage, with Christos Tsiolkas recently announced to attend.
Prepared for the September festival, Melbourne based author, Christos Tsiolkas has penned nine novels, and is an accomplished playwright, essayist, and screenwriter.
His novels include ‘The Slap’, which won Overall Best Book in the Commonwealth Writers' Prize 2009, Australian Literary Society Gold, and 2009 Australian Booksellers Association and Australian Book Industry Awards Books of the Year.
With ‘Loaded’, ‘The Jesus Man’, and ‘Dead Europe’ winning the 2006 Age Fiction Prize and 2006 Melbourne Best Writing Award and ‘Barracuda’ and ‘Damascus’ winning the 2019 Victorian Premier's Literary Award for Fiction, and 7½ won the Melbourne Prize for Literature.
‘The Slap’ and ‘Barracuda’ were both adapted into celebrated television series.
Christos’ most recent novel is ‘The In-Between’, released in 2023.
“We planned for the best and we are attracting Australia’s leading authors,” said Festival President Karen Jacobsen.
“We are very excited to announce Christos’ attendance and we know he will bring many excellent insights for Festival attendees.
“My only advice for those who might experience Festival FOMO is to subscribe to receive Festival news from our website, so you don’t miss out!’ Karen said.
The Whitsundays Writers Festival is a premier literary event dedicated to fostering creativity, dialogue, and appreciation for the written word. Bringing together acclaimed authors, aspiring writers, and avid readers, the Festival celebrates the diverse tapestry of storytelling while showcasing the natural beauty of the Whitsundays region.
The Festival, spanning three days from Friday, September 6, to Sunday, September 8, 2024, will also feature the prestigious Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards. The Heart Awards provide well-deserved recognition and financial rewards to talented writers for best unpublished manuscript, short story, poetry, and book design.
WHAT: Whitsundays Writers Festival
WHEN: 6-8 September
www.whitsundayswriters.com
Christos Tsiolkas announced to join Whitsundays Writers Festival roster. Photo supplied
Join Black Dog Ride and PCYC Whitsundays this March for the iconic annual 1 Dayer event, which aims to start a national conversation about depression and suicide prevention.
The 1 Dayer event looks to have the riders of Black Dog Ride unite under one banner, with one voice on one single day to amplify a national message of hope, awareness and prevention.
Registration for the event includes 1 Dayer patch, a round 1 Dayer 2024 participation bike sticker and a Black Dog Ride bike sticker.
Black Dog Ride began in 2008, following founder Steve Andrews’ hearing of two mates’ wives suffering from depression and succumbing to the illness.
He had always dreamed of competing a ride around Australia, but lacked a purpose, that would fuel the ride.
The inaugural Black Dog Ride occurred in 2008, with Steve kicking off in Busselton. 26 days later, and over $34,000 raised, he had been successful.
Since then, Black Dog Ride sub-groups have spread across Australia, bonding over the love of bikes and camaraderie.
The annual Black Dog Ride allows all riders to come together, and as a national organisation, start the national conversation for suicide prevention and depression.
To register for the 1 Dayer event, visit https://bit.ly/4c3lVzJ
For more information, contact the local contacts for Black Dog Ride on Whitsundays@blackdogride.org.au
WHAT: Black Dog Ride’s 1 Dayer
WHERE: PCYC Whitsundays
WHEN: Sunday, March 17, from 7am
REGISTER: https://bit.ly/4c3lVzJ
This St Patrick’s Day, head to the Airlie Beach Hotel for one Sunday of the absolute best Irish jigs, with one of the best Irish tribute bands ever to escape Ireland!
Rattle and Hum is Australia’s premier U2 Tribute band, with the perfect recreation of the iconic band’s hits, with smooth beats and near-pristine tunes.
Formed in the midst of the mid 90s and crafting their sound and stage presence throughout the 2000s, Rattle and Hum’s unbelievably accurate renditions of U2 are sure to get Airlie Beach Hotel’s patrons excited this St Patricks Day.
But the unforgettable U2 tracks won’t be the only things on the set list, with Rattle and Hum ready to belt out classic Irish jigs and the perfect St Pats tracks, before they smooth out the afternoon with a special guest set-list of Coldplay, which always ends a Sunday afternoon off right.
Sure to be a sell-out show (with free entry!) reserve a table now with the team and be ready for all the action!
WHAT: St Patricks Day: Rattle and Hum
WHEN: Sunday March 17, from 2pm to 5.30pm
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
TICKETS: Absolutely Free But It’s Recommended To Reserve A Table!
Don’t Miss The Saturday Set!
Rattle And Hum
Saturday March 16, from 2pm to 5pm
With passion dedication and commitment, Daniel Spurway has set his sights on supercar racing, the natural evolution of his karting career.
It all started in 2018, when Daniel found himself behind the wheel of a kart and for the first time discovered the thrill of driving on the competitive track, and he hasn’t looked back once.
“I wouldn’t call it a passion,” Daniel shared.
“It’s more like a life-long obsession with racing.”
Closing out the chapter of kart racing in 2023, with 12 wins and 37 podium finishes spanning his karting career, Daniel decided that car racing was the next step for him, and rather than waiting for the pros to approach him, he would go knocking on some doors.
“I’m happy with all that I accomplished in kart racing. I am proud of making it to the NQ Championship in 2022, and for competing in the QLD State Cup.”
Now turning his efforts to getting into the support category league of Aussie Racing Cars, Daniel is chasing the rush of powerful engines.
Aussie Racing Cars is just one stepping-stone in Daniel’s progression, with the goal of racing in the Supercar Championships the ultimate goal.
“To be able to be on the tracks that my heroes have raced on, that’s what I’m after.
“To be in the league with some of the best, that is my major dream.”
Daniel is open to local sponsorships, to propel him further in his racing career.
“To be able to race in the big leagues, that would mean the world to me. And to have long-term sponsors behind me means that I can achieve my dreams of racing alongside my heroes.
“Racing is something that came to me at an early age.
“Racing is something that me and my dad bonded over, and it was something that helped me through tough times.
“It allowed me to escape my life for a time, when all I had to focus on was taking the next turn, then the next then the next.
“Any assistance I will always appreciate.”
“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Richard from Freem Racewear, who’s always been looking out for me with our racewear.”
Daniel’s Fastest Speeds:
“In my kart, I once hit 120 kilometres, and in the Scholarship Series Toyota 86, I got up to 220 to 230 kilometres, which was incredible.”
1. Daniel Spurway, at the 2024 Toyota 86 Scholarship Series
2. Daniel’s karting career ending with 12 wins and 37 podium finishes. Photos supplied
Local youth sports coaching organisation Next Stars Sports Academy isdelighted to announce the extension of their partnership withMomentum High Risk Training (Momentum HRT) for an additional 12months, marking a significant milestone in their collaboration.
Overthe past year Momentum HRT has served as the proud naming rightspartner of Next Stars' Momentum Speed Squad demonstrating theirdedication to fostering athletic excellence within the community.With this renewed commitment Momentum HRT's support will nowencompass the entirety of Next Stars' coaching programs expandingtheir impact and reach across the Whitsunday region.
Thecontinued partnership between Next Stars and Momentum HRT underscoresa shared vision of empowering youth through sports, emphasising bothphysical and emotional development.
Lukeand Jacqui Shields, the owners of Momentum HRT, said, "We arethrilled to extend our partnership with Next Stars! We have witnessedfirsthand the exceptional coaching and mentorship that has beenprovided to our own children and together we look forward tofurthering the positive impact we can make in the lives of youththroughout the Whitsunday region.”
TimOberg from Next Stars said, “I have loved collaborating with Lukeand Jacqui from Momentum HRT over the last year and am excited aboutthe impact we can achieve with this enhanced partnership. I’m afirm believer in the power of shared values and I know that MomentumHRT and Next Stars are perfectly aligned in that regard.”
Forfurther information regarding Next Stars Sports Academy seewww.nextstars.org.
The Cannonvale Cannons had a very successful weekend at the NQ Swimming Championships held in Mackay. The Cannons thoroughly enjoyed the relays on Friday night and were very excited with their medals. On Saturday morning, the Cannons started the day on a high, winning the annual March Past. The swimmers looked amazing in the caps and capes. To top off the championships, the Cannonvale Cannons accrued the highest number of points and were named the Champion Club.
Congratulations to Jax Clayworth, Don Algie and Jacob Bell for being awarded Age Champions.
Zane Clayworth, Zachary Trefz, Levi Smith, Addie Sanders, Charlie Doherty, Eric Mulliss, Koa Harland, Thomas Ganter Evie Doherty, and Harris Delac swam PBs in just about all their events. Charlie Doherty, Thomas Ganter, Remy Hedges, Holly Perrin, Jy Parkinson Anisa Helou, Ehsan Helou, Noah Maltby, Tora Delac, and Jack Ganter made finals for all his events and won a swag of medals. Dylan Reynolds was thrilled to make finals for four of her events.
Ruby Harland, Indi Smith, Alex Trefz, Eloise Chegwidden, and Isabella Pisaniello swam excellent Backstroke setting PBs or achieving medals. Celeste Orenshaw, Maeve Dicheria, and Andie Reynolds were outstanding in the Breaststroke and Butterfly events. Isaac Pisaniello's best events were his last three in which he swam PBs and earned medals. Declan Dichiera was very happy with his silver medals. Matilda Nicholes’ best swim was 100m Freestyle which she swam in under 1min 20sec.
Coaches Ken Crittenden, Mark Erickson and Rylee Erickson were very impressed with all the swimmers and their exceptional achievements. The coaches were very proud of all the swimmers and were thrilled with the Cannons being named the Champion Club. Congratulations to all the swimmers and a big thank you to all the wonderful parents for their support.
Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen.
1. Team Cannons at NQ Champs
2. Cannons at NQ Champs
3. Boys Relay team
4. Senior Mixed Relay Team. Photos supplied
As the wet continues, maintaining a consistent fitness routine can become a challenge with the unpredictable weather. However, there are plenty of ways to stay active and keep fit, even when the rain is pouring down.
1. Embrace indoor workouts: Take advantage of indoor facilities such as gyms, fitness studios, or even your own living room. From cardio exercises like jumping jacks and burpees to strength training with dumbbells or resistance bands, there are countless workouts you can do indoors to keep your fitness levels up.
2. Try swimming: If you don't mind getting wet, swimming is an excellent way to stay fit during the wet season. Swimming provides a full-body workout and is gentle on the joints, making it suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels.
3. Dance it out: Put on your favourite music and dance around your living room. Dancing is not only a fun way to stay active but also an effective cardio workout. You can follow along with dance workout videos online or simply freestyle and let loose.
4. Take up a new indoor sport: Consider trying indoor sports such as indoor boxing, basketball, or badminton. These activities provide a great workout while keeping you protected from the rain.
5. Invest in home workout equipment: If you have the space and budget, consider investing in home workout equipment such as a treadmill, stationary bike, or rowing machine. Having these tools at home makes it easier to stay active regardless of the weather outside.
Collinsville is excited to welcome a new nurse graduate into their community this year.
Shakarna grew up in Clermont, near Mackay, and during high school, she was unsure what she wanted to do as a career.
“I didn’t know what I wanted to do in high school, but I started a double degree in nursing and midwifery in Townsville,” Shakarna said.
“But that was difficult financially, so I dropped back to nursing only, got work as an Assistant in Nursing (AIN) and completed by degree part-time.”
Shakarna completed her studies over six years, working during her studies.
During this time, Shakarna also benefited from three years of practical experience working as an Assistant in Nursing at the Clermont Multi-Purpose Health Service.
Having relocated to Collinsville earlier this year, Shakarna is enjoying the tight-knit community.
“There have been lots of learning opportunities and the community has been very welcoming,” she explained.
Shakarna will join a host of confident, compassionate, and knowledgeable nursing and health staff in Collinsville.
Shakarna is joining the health team of Collinsville. Photo supplied
Some tips on Navigating safely – and remember that as the skipper, you are responsible!
• Visibility: Operate slowly in rain, fog, mist, smoke and glare. Take special care when travelling at night as potential hazards are harder to see. Ensure you operate at a safe speed.
• Other boats: Slow down in busy areas and when near moored or anchored boats, and remember — working boats and larger vessels may have difficulty manoeuvring.
• Navigation hazards: Slow down in shallow areas and when boating in unfamiliar water. Water depth can vary and change quickly in and around reef areas, and also in freshwater.
• Wind, waves and currents: These may affect the boat’s stopping and turning ability. The type of motor, hull and design will all impact on the boat’s manoeuvrability.
• Check your navigation lights are working and fitted correctly. We did have to assist one boat with the nav lights on the wrong sides! Did not know if he was coming or going!
Collision rules: The ‘International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea’ (COLREGs) are the traffic laws of the sea. They give clear indication about passing, approaching, giving way and overtaking to avoid collisions with other boats. All boat skippers must thoroughly understand and apply the rules in all situations.
Channels: When navigating in narrow channels, all boats should travel on the starboard (right-hand) side of the channel and pass oncoming boats on the port (left) side. If plenty of distance separates two passing boats, there’s no need to deliberately alter course to pass to the right of the other boat. The rule is simply there to remove doubt in the event of a close situation. Small boats (including sailing boats) should keep clear of large boats that have limited room to manoeuvre in channels.
Giving way: All boats, whether power or sail, must always take action to avoid a collision. Power boats ‘Look all around, give way to the right, turn to the right and stay to the right’.
Head on: When meeting head on, both boats are required to alter course to starboard (right), never to port (left). Any turn should be large enough to be obvious to the other boat.
Overtaking: If you are overtaking a boat, you can do so to either side of the boat you wish to pass.
However, you must keep well clear of the boat you are overtaking. This applies to both sail and powerboats. In narrow channels you must be particularly careful when overtaking. In all instances, make sure you do not cut in front of the boat you have overtaken.
VMRW membership is cheap insurance at just $90. You can join online at https://vmrwhitsundays.com.au/join/ .
1. If Head on, alter course to starboard 1
2. Boat Collision
3. Power gives way to sail - usually! Photo supplied
March is on us which means Autumn has arrived and wet season is well underway, and because our hardcover is still a while away, and we still cannot control the weather, Tuesday and Wednesday Jackpot afternoon bowls and Business House Bowls were all cancelled.
So we had some respite for Friday and practice was available for all members.
Saturday morning Scroungers was run by Eric Barnard on his return from South Africa and first round winners were Margo Stanley, Harry Quod, and John Trembath with Harry Quod a standout winner, whilst the B Division was fought out by Eric Barnard and Tony Whitehorn with Eric proving too strong on the day.
Sunday afternoon Social bowls saw a strong field amass and we welcomed Paul Tobias back from his canoe holiday and great games were played but the outstanding team of Mark Mawson at lead and Tony Kelly as skip soundly beat all comers and it was John Anderson who ended up with the prestigious Health Hub award.
Saturday morning saw the Men’s singles rounds being played between John Brown against Ted Cullen marked by Tim Taylor and John came back in the latter stages of the game for a great victory as the photo shows.
John Brown with match referee Tim Taylor. Photo supplied
Passionate Indigenous owner, Robbie Congoo, is proud to release his self-funded 3.5-minute animated film about the creation of the Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef.
For the past year, the project has been underway, and the completed animation is now showing as a ‘Ngaro Dreaming Story’ video on Cruise Whitsundays tours.
Robbie hopes the film not only opens eyes to Indigenous culture and history, but also encourages people to protect the local environment.
Caption: Liza Muller, Sales and Marketing Manager for Cruise Whitsundays, Renee Branton-Brown General Manager of Cruise Whitsundays, Robbie Congoo and his wife Tara, Julia and Peter Farrell, Master Reef Guides from Reef Safari standing in front of the animated video. Photo credit: Rachael Smith
A recently released Traditional Owner-created animation video is the brainchild of Robbie Congoo from Yooribaya Cultural Experiences, a local entity which organises the performance of traditional smoking ceremonies and ‘Welcome to Country’ events across the region.
For several years, Robbie has been living in Townsville but driving down to the Whitsundays to work with school children, facilitate events and generally spread Indigenous education and awareness.
After many years travelling back and forth, Robbie, his wife Tara and their children decided to move to the Whitsundays and make it their home.
Robbie now works closely alongside many local tourism operators and through regular conversations with them, he realised there was a high demand for more Indigenous education for tourists visiting the area.
“We work with a lot of tourism operators and Master Reef Guides – teach them out culture such as our hunting methods and sacred sites,” explained Robbie.
“During these conversations they were asking about how they could share this knowledge in an appropriate way with their guests – how do we tell them about it?
“I thought this was an opportunity to create something really meaningful that would share our culture but also support businesses in the area.”
Robbie met up with his father and the pair came up with the idea of creating an animation.
From here, Robbie engaged with a Sydney-based animation company and worked closely alongside them to create the film.
“The animation talks about when the floods came through 10,000 years ago, using stories handed down of that event happening,” explained Robbie.
“It talks about how our creator spirit, the Rainbow Serpent, created the islands and the Great Barrier Reef to protect us from the floods.
“It then explains how it is now our obligation to look after and maintain the area.”
The animated film is now showing on the Resort Connection Ferries for Cruise Whitsundays, and Robbie is also in talks with other local operators, hoping the film can be spread more widely.
Liza Muller, Sales and Marketing Manager from Cruise Whitsundays said they are honoured to share the animation with guests.
“We are so excited to be working with Robbie and helping to open up the Indigenous Tourism space,” she shared.
“This is a wonderful platform for Indigenous Owners to share their stories and educate guests, it’s such a great fit for us and the animation has been well received by everyone.”
Master Reef Guide and owner of Reef Safari, a company that offers scuba diving adventures alongside Cruise Whitsundays, Julia Farrell said the crew are all very excited and embrace the sharing of the new video and cultural story.
“International and domestic visitors are very interested in this knowledge and to have this created by Robbie in such a professional and artistic way and to be able to share it directly to our visitors reassures all the crew that the right story is being told by the right source,” she explained.
“We hope our work as marine tourism operators and Master Reef Guides on monitoring and managing the local reef, through our partnership with GBRMPA, along with the reef education we share with visitors and staff honours our traditional owners promise to protect the reef for future generations.
“We look forward to more collaboration with our local traditional owners to continue this legacy along with the sharing of their very rich and wonderful culture with all our visitors.”
Caption: Robbie Congoo and his wife Tara standing in front of the recently released animated video. Photo credit: Rachael Smith.
Hi Everyone,
One of my favourite parts of the job is meeting people who are so passionate about their mission in life that their energy is inspiring to be around.
Their story is so engaging and meaningful that you can’t help but feel passionate right there alongside them.
This happened to me earlier this week when I met Robbie Congoo, a proud Indigenous man who has just released an animated short film about local cultural history.
I remember coming to Australia as a backpacker 20 years ago, eager to find out more information about the mysterious yet fascinating Indigenous culture.
But to my surprise, everyone I spoke to seemed reluctant to discuss this unique part of their heritage.
People were either not sure what to say, scared they might say the wrong thing or simply hesitant to answer questions that linked back to a traumatic past.
At the time it saddened me to see how this lack of conversation was pushing such an ancient culture into fringes, especially when I visited New Zealand where their Indigenous people are celebrated.
Fortunately, over the last 20 years a lot has changed, and it is people like Robbie who are positively helping to shift attitudes within their local communities.
This week, I found out how much non-Indigenous tourism operators are eager to share Indigenous culture but simply need the tools to do so in a respectful and accurate way.
Some feel they do not know how to do this with confidence, and Robbie (largely in his own time, with his own money) is making it his mission to give tourism operators those tools.
By educating and raising awareness of Indigenous culture within the tourism industry, people from all over the world are now witnessing a positive and informed response when they enquire about our fascinating heritage.
Thank you, Robbie.
Rach
Quote of the Week: “We are all visitors to this time, this place. We are just passing through. Our purpose here is to learn, to observe, to grow, to love . . . and then we return home.”
(Aboriginal Proverb)
Upon hearing of the devastating effects of the flooding in North Queensland, following Ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper, local business owners Jen and Beth Walters of Cartridge Universe Whitsunday, decided to rally the community together to provide necessary supplies to small communities.
“We became aware of the state of Rossville and surrounds when our friend, Dave Charlton, put the call out for any donations to travel up with him on 22nd December 2023,” Beth explained.
In December, Jen and Beth were able to collect donations from Silly Sollys and Whitsundays Pharmacy, which Dave drove to the isolated communities of Rossville, Wujal, Bloomfield and surrounding towns.
From there, the couple turned to social media, to put the callout for their plan to send more donations to the small communities.
“So many kind people and some businesses of the Whitsundays have very kindly donated bedding, towels, clothes, medical supplies, toys, books, furniture, televisions, cleaning products, fishing gear, fold out tables and chairs, and we were blown away with one lovely lady who didn’t want to be named arranged five new bar fridges from Airlie Beach Betta, Furniture, Bedding and Electrical Appliances!”
After being postponed due to Ex-Tropical Cyclone Kirrily, the truck finally left Cartridge World, where the donations had been stored, last Tuesday, February 21.
“We wanted to thank everyone who donated goods or their time and NQ Car & Truck Rentals in Mackay for helping us with the transport, without you all it would not have been possible.”
The truck, driven by Dave and Drew last week, delivered donations to North Queensland. Photo supplied
An Independent Inquiry has been launched to investigate the fatal helicopter crash of an Australian Defence Force helicopter, which killed four Defence personnel.
The ADF helicopter, the MRH-90 Taipan helicopter was undertaking training exercises in the Whitsundays as part as Exercise Talisman Sabre 2023, when it experienced catastrophic failure and crashed into waters near Lindeman Island, in July 2023.
The four Defence personnel onboard, Captain Danniel Lyon, Lieutenant Maxwell Nugent, Warrant Officer Class Two Joseph Laycock and Corporal Alexander Naggs perished in the accident.
The four ADF men were of the Sixth Aviation Regiment, based in Sydney, and were not recovered from the water with the wreckage for a number of days following the crash, due to rough water conditions.
The Inquiry is being led by an Assistant Inspector-General of the Australian Defence Force (IGADF), former Justice the Honourable Margaret McMurdo AC, who will be supported by two other Assistant IGADFs, Air Vice-Marshal Joe Iervasi, AM, CSC, (retd) and Colonel Jens Streit.
The Inquiry will investigate the cause of the incident and make recommendations to avoid or limit the risk of such an event occurring again.
The Inquiry will also investigate whether actions or inactions of personnel of the Australian Defence Force or other personnel were contributing factors into the crash.
The first public hearing was held earlier this week on Tuesday.
1: Wreckage was pulled out of the water in the days following the crash. Photo supplied
2: Lieutenant Maxwell Nugent, Captain Daniel Lyon, Warrant Officer Class 2 Joseph Laycock, and Corporal Alexander Naggs, the four personnel lost in the crash. Image supplied
Early voting officially opens on Monday March 4, for voters wishing to escape the hectic polling booths on Saturday March 16.
Here are the locations to vote early in the region:
Cannonvale
Shop 15 of Whitsunday Shopping Centre
Proserpine
Proserpine Whitsunday Freemason Lodge
Collinsville
Collinsville Community Centre
Bowen
Bowen PCYC
All sites are open Monday March 4 to Friday March 15 (excluding weekends) from 9am to 5pm
The upcoming Country Fest Queensland, a North Queensland country music festival due to be held in Bloomsbury later this month announced this week that headlining act, John Fogerty will no longer be playing at the festival.
Event organisers released a statement saying John Fogerty will “no longer be attending Country Fest QLD.”
“We are working hard on a revised line up and will have more information coming soon,” the official statement on the events Facebook explained.
However, the Credence Clearwater Rival star John Fogerty released an opposing statement.
“I was ready to celebrate with you all for my one and only show this year in Australia, when Country Fest Queensland blindsided me yesterday by cancelling my appearance,” John explained.
“It was posted that I would not be appearing due to unforeseen circumstances.
“Well, I can tell you, my friends, I was not the reason for the ‘unforeseen circumstances’,” John continued.
“I was ready to come down there and excited to celebrate getting my songs back with you all.”
A fan commented on Country Fest’s Facebook page speculating that the event organisers could not afford to have the star attend while others are still committed to the event without John.
“Was going to the event no matter who was playing,” one comment explained.
“Rain, John or shine, I’ll be there!” said another.
The event still boasts other big names such as The Wolfe Brothers, Morgan Evans and Lee Kernaghan.
Country Fest QLD explains that for ticket holders wishing for a refund due to the non-appearance of John Fogerty, that Oztix will contact all ticket holder via email for refund options.
Country Fest QLD is scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, March 30 and 31, at Bloomsbury.
John Fogerty has been removed from the line up of 2024 Country Fest QLD. Photo supplied
A joint venture between Proserpine State High School and Whitsunday Shire Family Day Care (WFDC) has seen the creation of a new ‘The Whitsundays: Our Home, Your Adventures’ novel.
The idea came from the team of WFDC, as a way to celebrate the region, the community’s identity, and incorporate iconic landmarks in a children’s book.
“Our goal was to capture the unique charm of the region and involve the children in the process,” explained Amanda Brett, Coordinator with Whitsunday Shire Family Day Care.
“Collaborative efforts among Educators, children and students aimed to showcase not just physical landmarks but also the essence of the community. The grant facilitated the production of a high-quality book, serving as a keepsake for families and a source of community pride.”
Spanning over 18 months, from the initial concept to the point of publication and distribution, WFDC are now eager to spread the news of the project.
“The children at Whitsunday Shire Family Day Care are mostly under five and loved the project,” Kylie Smith, Coordinator with WFDC explained.
“They had a wonderful time learning about local animals and doing fun crafts with their Educators. Even though they didn't fully grasp the final product concept, their excitement peaked when they saw the book.
“Finding the animals they created in the book made them really excited. The project went from a learning experience to amazement for the children when they discovered their creations in the colourful pages.”
Year 12 student Alice Attwood worked closely with the students of WFDC.
“I think the book is a great idea and opportunity for the community to collaborate for kids to see different art textures and mediums. It will be great to show the book to our own children one day.”
Don McDermid, Principal of Proserpine State High School, is excited with the project.
“It has been such an incredible opportunity for our school,” he said.
“Our students showed such excitement and enthusiasm through their work and appreciated the chance to demonstrate their artistic skill, interest in child care and ultimately their love of our Whitsunday Region,” he explained.
“It been an absolute privilege to work with Amanda and Kylie on the book release.”
The books are available for purchase for $20 each from the WFDC office, at 18B Chapman Street, Proserpine.
Back: Teacher Bhrett Bell, students Isabella Grenci, Sienna Thomson, Amelia Brain, Arthina Straker, Lilly Tarver, Emily Vique, former Teacher Tia Attwood, student Sophie Whish, Whitsunday Shire Family Daycare staff Kylie Smith and Amanda Brett.
Front: Students Alice Attwood, Millie Groom, Lexi Di Benedetto, Ella Williams, and Flynn Squires.
Absent: Students Ellizay Brett, Gabby Beach, Demi Vardanega, Alessa Penglase, Preis Boileau, Courtney Beard, Anaiyah James-Hankin, Jahla Thompson, Belamy Poles, Dominick James-Johnson, Zanthia Brimble-Jacobi, Olivia Whibley, Giselle Tronc, Jordan Welsh, and Natalie Cooper. Photo supplied
The Whitsunday Foodbank in Proserpine is welcoming a grant from the 2024 Ergon-Energex Community Fund.
The generous grant of $4,500 has already been allocated for the purchase of a new freezer for the not-for-profit venture, to allow community members to access frozen grocery items.
Chairman of the Board for Whitsunday Foodbank, Jeff Boyle, welcomes the gift.
“Our previous freezer has just died, and being able to replace it so quickly is great,” he explained.
“Our previous freezer was a classic chest freezer, which a lot of our customers overlooked.
“The new one is an upright, two-door freezer with glass panels, so that customers can see exactly what is in the freezer without having to rummage through a big chest freezer.
“It means they can see when we have steaks, or a chook, or meatballs in there without too much hassle.”
Expecting the delivery of the new freezer in the next few weeks, Jeff is eager to stock it full for the Foodbank customers.
“We see between 30 to 40 local residents shop at the Foodbank each week, and being able to better our offering is great.”
The items at the Foodbank are at greatly reduced prices, compared to main chain grocery stores, and are available for pension and healthcare card holders.
“And any families in need,” Jeff explained.
“The cost of the items covers the bare essentials of the shop, that being rent and electricity.
“This isn’t about profit but helping the community.”
The official opening of the Whitsunday Foodbank Proserpine, with Member for Whitsundays Amanda Camm, Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox, and Chairman Jeff Boyle. Photo supplied
Since she was three years old, Roze has passionately pursued her dream of becoming a fashion model and she finally realised this dream when she appeared on a billboard during New York Fashion Week recently.
Answering a callout by former locals Belle Le Chic, Roze’s mum Katrina put Roze forward as a model to showcase Belle Le Chic’s new collection, the Goddess Collection.
In the two-day shoot, Roze was sure that photographer, Alexis Turner, knew her good side, and posed perfectly, the hope of appearing on a New York Times Square Billboard present on her mind.
“We knew that some of the models would appear on the New York Times Square Billboard, and then we were sent the picture, and it was amazing,” explained Katrina.
“Roze squealed, she was so excited.”
Roze’s commitment to her modelling career started when she stumbled across modelling videos, and just a year later, Katrina enrolled her in Brooke Lee Modelling lessons to help her perfect her craft and expand her skills.
“She is obsessed with the entire process. She knows her poses, her angles. Roze loves playing with makeup and practicing her runway walk,” Katrina explained.
Along with the Times Square Billboard, the Belle Le Chic dress she was modelling was named after her, a gorgeous gown which now is proudly displayed in their family home.
“We’re all so proud of Roze. It all comes from her, and we’re happy she is doing something she loves.”
Living on a property, Katrina explained that Roze lives the best of both worlds.
“She does her modelling, with the makeup and the hair, but at home, she’s a bit of a tomboy. She rides her motorbike, catches crabs, and works with her brothers. She loves it all.”
Progressing her modelling career, Roze will make appearances at the Cairns Fashion Week runway, and the Mackay Wedding Expo, sure to model gowns beautifully and with perfect confidence.
1. Roze modelling the Belle Le Chic Roze Gown. Photographer: Alexis Turner Photography
2. Roze on the New York Times Square Bill Board. Photo supplied
Whitsunday Regional Council has set a new precedent, overruling Botanica Estate’s governing body and body corporation recommendation, by approving an owner’s application for their property to be a short term accommodation listing.
Botanica Estate is a gated, residential community, with 48 residential lots.
Managed by Whitsunday Body Corp Management and the Botanica Body Corporate Committee (BCC), the committee opposed the application, on the grounds of personal safety, residential amenity and precedent.
“While a body corporate cannot enforce the council’s requirements, it can complain to council about the lack of compliance with the planning approval,” BCC’s official opposing statement detailed, in a letter submitted to Council.
“As Whitsunday Regional Council has local planning laws that are specific in terms of short-term occupancy rights, the Botanica Estate Body Corporate seeks to prohibit short-term letting through engaging the council to enforce its own planning laws.
Councillors Clay Bauman and Jan Clifford opposed this application.
“I believe that people have the right to enjoyment of their property, particularly in a gated community,” Cr Clifford explained.
“If we approve this, this will become another residential estate that is full of short term accommodation dwellings,” Cr Bauman said.
While Major Julie Hall explained her opinion on not supporting the application, citing that the Council’s proposed Local Law will need to further investigate such matters in the next Council term, however, in this case, it is not worth fighting when the Lot owners take Council to court.
“This will cost ratepayers money, fighting this in court,” Mayor Hall explained.
“Our current policy and planning do not allow us to select areas for these applications, so I suggest that the new Council look into establishing a short-term accommodation precinct, to better manage and decide applications.”
Two of the 48 lots in the Botanica Estate are already approved short term accommodation dwellings.
This application was approved by Council at their Ordinary Meeting on Wednesday, with a four against two vote.
Three Proserpine youth have spoken their heart out, at the annual Proserpine Lions Youth of the Year competition.
The Lions Youth of the Year was created to enable and encourage student to take an interest in leadership, providing the opportunity to take an active and constructive role in their community.
The Youth of the Year Final includes one prepared speech, on the topic of their choosing, and two impromptu speeches.
The three youth at the Proserpine Youth of the Year embody community spirit and positive leadership.
Alice Pinni is a Year 12 student from Proserpine State High School, a current school captain and heavily involved in sports, arts, and culture, with aspirations of pursing a career in healthcare and dentistry.
Alice’s prepared speech was on the topic of ‘The Erosion of Empathy in the Digital Age’.
Hurley Diessel is a Year 12 student from Proserpine State High School, with commitments in committees at his school.
His passions include personal fitness and musical theatre and his prepared speech was on the topic of ‘Paying Attention to Attention’.
The third speaker was Mia Vloedmans, a Year 11 student from Proserpine State High School, whose passions include the Senior Leadership team, the Social and Cultural Committee, and Care Group representative.
Mia’s prepared speech was ‘Burden to Blessings’, speaking of her Type 1 Diabetes diagnosis.
“All three speakers were excellent,” explained Jane Bettridge, the Lions Youth of the Year Coordinator.
“These youth are truly inspiring.”
The first of the two impromptu topics were ‘Consider the recent phone ban in schools, and how has the school’s culture changed?’
“All speakers believed that the ban was positive,” Jane explained.
“They all felt that the school culture has positively changed, and more conversations were being had at break times.”
The second topic was ‘Do you agree or disagree with this statement: A sense of humour is essential?’
“They all believe that having a sense of humour is essential,” Jane explained.
In the tight competition, all the students spoke eloquently, and “The judges had their work cut out for them.”
Hurley Diessel was awarded the Public Speaking Award, while Mia Vloedmans was awarded the Overall Winner, and will represent Proserpine, next weekend, March 3, in Collinsville at Zones, going up against the youth winner of Whitsunday, Bowen, Ayr and Collinsville Lions.
Mia, Alice, Hurley, Member for Whitsunday Ms Amanda Camm. Photo supplied
Questions Of The Week:
1.
Who do you think is your biggest competitor? What do you admire about them and what qualities do you have that will ultimately make you better for the role?
2.
If you could throw your support behind a particular local community organisation what would it be and how would you support them?
3.
What’s your vision of the Whitsundays in 10 years? Tell us about the infrastructure, services and facilities you think are most important to the region and paint a picture of what you would like to see.
Tony Price
Division 2 Candidate
1.
Clay Bauman delves deeply into council documents and reports. I excel in fostering constructive collaboration among fellow Councillors and Council Staff, earning their support and driving positive outcomes for the Whitsunday Coast. With two previous terms as a councillor and 45 years of local business experience, I bring invaluable communication and negotiation skills, region-wide connections and expertise to the table.
2.
While I support all community-orientated organisations, my priority is to ensure that the Greater Airlie Beach Masterplan 2022 is fully funded which will help many community organisations in Division 2. As part of this plan, the completion of projects including Cannonvale Lakes Park, Cannonvale Fishing Jetty, and the Cultural & Civic Hub (art gallery, library, customer service and disaster resilience centre) will enable families to engage in low-cost recreation, fostering community bonds and healthy lifestyles amidst our region's natural beauty.
3.
In 10 years, I envision the Whitsundays with an Emergency Hospital and State High School on the Coast, improved road infrastructure, and upscale, medium-density dwellings for families, workers, and visitors. Vital aged care facilities and lifestyle communities will flourish alongside a world-class sporting complex which can host major events while benefiting local clubs and schools. Additionally, a thriving tourism industry with accessible island resorts will enrich the region, fostering sustainable growth and prosperity for residents to relish.
John Finlay
Division 6 Candidate
1.
The qualities and attributes I have to undertake the role are my community values and involvement including economic development, my professional qualifications including Fellow of Certified Practising Accountants Australia and local government qualifications and my professional employment including owning and managing an accounting business in Bowen and the Whitsunday, former roles in Councils being Chief Executive Officer of Whitsunday and Bowen Councils and Director of Corporate and Financial Services. This combined experience will be important in the role as Councillor.
2:
The community spirit in our region is built upon the amazing not for profit community organisations. These organisations include churches, sporting clubs, social welfare and support services, the arts, and others and are all worthy of support depending on their needs. This support can be in the form of assistance with applications for grants, concessions with rates and charges, and working together for the betterment of the community.
3.
The vision for the Whitsunday Region is for the prosperous sustainability of the region in all areas of the community and economic and social development. The maintaining of current infrastructure and facilities and ensuring planning for future infrastructure for the growth of the region. Providing and encouraging economic development including small business, tourism development, major industry developments and supporting the social needs of the communities. Working together with the above will make for a prosperous vision for the region.
David Paddon
Division 6 Candidate
1.
Defiantly apathy and lack of an economic plan for Bowen. Having now interviewed 100’s of residences they say candidates messaging is nonspecific, does not address “what will it do for me”.
I bring a career’s worth of experience in long-term planning and economic growth/achievements.
Bowen is falling behind and if this continues, we can expect to see government serves and retail move to the southern end of the WCR. My solution is we need 200 more permanent long-term jobs.
2.
If successful, my focus will be on driving jobs growth and none better would the decades old plans to expand the Marina facilities in Bowen and work with the local sailing clubs and community groups to achieve a level of congruity for this transformative project
3.
In 10 years from now the Whitsundays will double in population and therefor the WRC faces significant infrastructure projects, power, water, roads, telecommunications, hospitals etc and each of the major community centres will evolve in their own direction e.g. Airlie will continue as the region’s capital for tourism. Proserpine Evolves as the transport hub, with the airport, rail and major Highway, Agriculture will still be a major contributor to the town economy. Bowen Develop more industry, be the major marine repair facility, Mining and agriculture powerhouses.
Clay Bauman
Division 2 Candidate
1.
My only competitor lives in Proserpine, and while I admire anybody who wishes to serve the community, ‘serve’ must be the key word. As a Cannonvale resident, with my deep understanding of our community's needs, coupled with a proven track record of navigating bureaucracy for real outcomes, my dedication to progress and ability to deliver results are what Division 2 needs. Voting Clay ensures a future where our community's voice is amplified and we move forward together, not backwards.
2.
While Council has a limited budget that mostly comes from ratepayers, there is huge amounts of money available from external grants. I feel if Council assists with preparing grant applications, rather than just dolling out a few dollars, our community organisations would blossom with a sound financial basis. Teaching and helping someone to fish, rather than giving them a fish, is my plan to support all our clubs, charities and groups that benefit so many, thanks mainly to tireless volunteers.
3.
My vision is for a better Council, lower rates and low-rise development. While my plan for the Cannonvale Civic Centre saves ratepayers millions, we must not forget less visible, yet critical infrastructure: roads, aging pipes, stormwater and networks for new residential developments. I'm already onto a sportspark plan, the challenge remains in extending services to the proposed Havengrand site. If 13 years ago Council had heeded professional advice to buy land closer to Cannonvale, we might already have the sportspark.
Ry Collins
Mayoral Candidate
1.
I've been focused on my own race and what I can bring to the region but would think my biggest competitor is one who brings a wealth of current experience addressing our region's challenges and opportunities as well as deep commitment and roots into our community, qualities I greatly respect. I feel I offer a unique forward looking proposition, a fresh perspective, innovative ideas, and proven dedication to advocating for our region which sets me apart. I believe these attributes are crucial for addressing our community's needs.
2.
All our community groups are incredibly important to our region and sense of place. If I were to pick just one, it would be housing. I would support organisations such as Whitsunday Housing Company, to further address the critical housing and accommodation crisis facing our community. By advocating for policy changes, securing funding for affordable housing projects, and facilitating partnerships between government, the private sector, and non-profits, I think we can make an impact in increasing accessible housing and accommodation options for our community.
3.
I envision the Whitsundays as a leading region for the convergence of our traditional and future industries. A strong and growing economy known for embracing sustainability and community liveability where everyone still knows their neighbour. Key infrastructure investments in renewable energy, water security and digital connectivity will support our growth. Enhanced health, education, and transport services will ensure a high quality of life and help keep our kids here. I dream of a vibrant, resilient community where nature and progress coexist harmoniously.
Richard Evans
Mayoral Candidate
1.
I respect all candidates' commitment to the election process, regardless of experience. Apathy among voters is our biggest competitor. Ratepayers seek change in council attitude and performance. If you want change, vote for it. My experience in politics and managing large organisations equips me to drive meaningful change from day one. There is no luxury of time to settle into the role. My expertise, policy positions, and action plans distinguish me and I’m on the record at www.richard4mayor.com
2.
Our community organisations make an incredibly valuable contribution, like the VMR where I volunteer. Yet, housing availability and affordability demand immediate prioritisation especially for the vulnerable – single parents, elderly, and victims of domestic violence. Proserpine’s Tiny Homes initiative shows promise and worthy of support, as do other pathways such as reviewing town planning regulations, public-private partnerships, and workforce villages. As mayor, I pledge to explore avenues to support Tiny Homes that align with our community's needs and aspirations.
3.
Navigating the complexities of the Whitsundays region requires multifaceted solutions. Restoring trust in local government is paramount. While projects matter, a cultural shift within council towards accountability is vital for effective management of rates and ratepayer satisfaction. I envision a Whitsundays characterised by heightened accountability for our mayor, councillors and council staff, instilling community pride with meaningful community interactions. In 2034 we will have a high performing, accountable, and respected council delivering more than just rates, roads and rubbish.
Phil Batty
Mayoral Candidate
1.
I am sure each of the candidates have qualities to be admired but as I had never heard of Ry Collins or Richard Evans until the nominations for this election it would be disrespectful for me to judge and comment. I can say that I have the skills, the strength and the ability to take my passion for this entire region into the role of Mayor and truly make a positive impact to the lives of the residents both current and future generations.
2.
Choosing one would be like picking your favourite child. An example of one of the many organisations deserving of support would be the Whitsunday Housing Company who are working hard to alleviate one of the biggest problems right across the region. They seek to provide affordable, safe, secure and accessible long-term housing for people in need and those wishing to gain meaningful work but housing is inhibiting those opportunities. I would support them with expertise, properly funded and budgeted support.
3.
The big picture is a thriving, forward looking, environmentally and financially responsible, culturally aware, affordable, welcoming and still the best place in Australia to live and raise a family. That means starting now on the journey, planning for the schools, hospitals, roads and amenities that contribute to that lifestyle. We need to see an environment which is in better shape than it is today, we need to see agriculture and manufacturing grow to be the envy of Australia for its quality and leading edge practices.
Peter Hood
Mayoral Candidate
1.
Residents of the Whitsundays; please go to https://www.facebook.com/100078511399893/posts/pfbid037o1k89zAt6DQBJUgKpqdKx6Yuu81frgmWAyYGKFxgncJj8edHmzfC6kZXaqQmCGql/ for my accurate answer. Or go to my Mayoral Facebook Page and see the Post 27.02.2024, “Search & Seek answers on matters for the Candidates.”
2.
As a result of Whitsunday Life’s (WL) publication on matters for me two editions ago, my accounting practice is now providing no-charge assistance to 471 Whitsundays Residents in their dealings with Centrelink and the Tax Office. Up from 117 prior to the WL article coming out. I now have the ammunition I need to “convince” Centrelink to get their Community Assistance Bus rolling to all the isolated communities in The Whitsundays and beyond. Because Centrelink cares; yea right; they do now!
3.
No Candidate can accurately predict anything on matters for WRC and our Communities until the successful Candidate gets to the truth of WRC’s financial position and quickly confirms the extent of WRC’s wastage of Community Resources. Yes, roads, housing and all the other feel-good comments that other candidates might sprout are automatic musts. It is a bit like the Miss World beauty pageant contestants all exclaiming their priorities for “world peace.” Of course!
Bowen Gumlu Growers Association led initiative ‘New Realities in Agriculture and Aquaculture Project’ has successfully concluded, revolutionising youth engagement in agriculture and aquaculture by offering an immersive virtual reality experience.
The project allowed participants a window in careers in agriculture and aquaculture, utilising virtual reality, with the selected young people reporting newfound enthusiasm and appreciation for the diverse career opportunities in the industry.
"This innovative initiative has effectively bridged the gap between new technology and traditional industries for North Queensland's youth. Through virtual reality, we've provided a practical glimpse into the future of agriculture and aquaculture, sparking genuine interest, and understanding among young participants that we hope to continue to build upon for the future of our rural and regional industries" said Ry Collins, CEO of Bowen Gumlu Growers Association.
Supported financially by the Queensland Government’s Growing Workforce Participation Fund (GEPF), a critical component of the Back to Work Initiative, and was instrumental in enabling the ‘New Realties Project’ to bring virtual reality experiences to the youth, helping them gain insights into the vast potential of the agriculture and aquaculture sectors.
The Bowen Gumlu Growers Association looks forward to sharing the case studies, highlighting real life success stories and the positive industry perception change by the project.
“This will continue to shape the future of agriculture and aquaculture in North Queensland.”
Bowen Gumlu Growers Association is a not-for-profit industry association that represents growers, producers, and agribusinesses in North Queensland, with key activities including advocacy, industry development and delivery of projects focused on improving on-farm practices, commercial outcomes of farming businesses and the prosperity of the wider regional Whitsunday community.
The Department of State Development, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning and Whitsunday Regional Council are inviting business to a Business Capability Development session aimed at supporting local businesses and industry in positioning for work throughout major project and business supply chains.
This session will include delivery of a Capability Statement Workshop and Tendering: Top Ten Tips presentation.
WHAT: Business Capability Development Sessions
WHERE: Whitsunday Regional Council Chambers
WHEN: Thursday March 7, from 9am
REGISTER: $50, available through https://bit.ly/3uczICX, with registrations closing March 4
The Rotary Club of Bowen has officially celebrated 71 years of establishment, alongside the 119th anniversary of Rotary around the world.
While the actual birthday of the Rotary Club of Bowen isn’t until June, Club President Helen Woodhouse explained that the Club decided to “tag” along with the 119th anniversary of Rotary as their birthday function.
The group were delighted to see Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, come along to celebrate the milestone.
“The idea of the event was to tag along with the Rotary’s birthday, share the story and legacy of Paul Harris, Founder of Rotary,” she said.
Helen Woodhouse was also awarded with her third Paul Harris Fellow recognition Medal, for her outstanding commitment and dedication to Rotary.
Helen was surprised by the award.
“I never expected it,” she explained.
Being her third Paul Harris Fellows Recognition Medal, Helen said that she is honoured by the recognition, however her work is primarily the promotion of the Club in the Bowen community.
“I have been the President for six years, and in June, I am stepping down.
“When I first stepped up to the job, we only had three members, and now we have nine. It is very important to keep our club going, and I am very honoured by this medal.”
Regular initiatives of the Rotary Club of Bowen include fundraising for Polio research and treatment, fundraising for local schools and for annual school awards, and the upkeep of Rotary Park at Horseshoe Bay.
The Club are also about to launch three Little Free Libraries, to be erected at high thorough fare points in Bowen, for residents and visitors to collect and return novels and literature at no cost.
“We’re a lowkey club, but with an increase in members, we’re excited to increase our efforts.”
If you are interested to join the Rotary Club of Bowen, please contact Club President Helen Woodhouse, on 0439 549 962 or via email bowen@rotary9560.org. Interested parties are welcome to attend their monthly meetings, on the first Saturday of every month.
1. Guests of the Rotary Club of Bowen’s birthday celebrations
2. Club President Helen Woodhouse with Merewyn Wright Former District Governor
3. Merewyn Wright and Helen Woodhouse with Allan Church, Former District Governor. Photos supplied
Greys Bay in Bowen is welcoming two new undercover shelters, ahead of the expected influx of visitors.
The shelters, which include a picnic setting, overhead cover and solar lighting, will allow visitors and locals to enjoy the beach in shade.
The first shelter will be placed at Greys Bay Lookout, with works beginning earlier last week, and expected to be completed by mid-March.
The second shelter will be in Lions Park, with exact times for the expected work to be confirmed, once materials arrive.
Both areas will be cornered off using temporary fencing, while the works are being completed.
“It is fantastic to see the Whitsunday Regional Council improving facilities in these areas,” explained Leanne Abernethy, Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business.
“Bowen is the heart of secluded beaches, so it is great for our tourism industry that we continue to update facilities around all our beautiful beaches and bays.”
Photo supplied
This month’s Ask An Expert with Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry asks: Are business plans a waste of time?
Some Chamber Board members responded.
Melinda of Melinda Louise Media believes that business plans are key to success. It provides a framework for strategic direction, identifies goals, timeframes to monitor growth and financial targets, and track progress. It can be revisited as the business grows and adapted to market and customer shifts.
Are they a waste of time?
“No way!” said Jannah of Scallywag Fabrication. “Often, it feels they are when you’re knee deep in customer deadline quicksand, but when you're trying to win a job, negotiating supplier pricing, comparing competitors, planning your marketing, thinking about your goals, or just looking at future cash flow, you’re drafting your plan in your head. Just write it down!”
Kim of Hummingbird Refrigeration, Electrical & Air Conditioning said “Definitely not, so long as you treat it as a dynamic rather than static plan and regularly review it. Don't overthink it!”
“You can’t drive a car without knowing where you’re going … that’s what a business plan is, the navigation map to the end point” replied Annette of PRD Whitsunday Real Estate.
Anthony of Airlie Beach Executive Services believes that business plans serve to reference the original idea, it's important to be able look back and see how you've tracked.
Got a business question? Contact the Chamber to ask!
Respected people-focused company, Shiift, celebrated year four by holding their first 2024 Thriive Event last week, bringing together over 40 women in an uplifting evening event which inspired conversations and self-reflection.
Participants were guided through a series of lively soul-searching activities, sharing experiences with their peers, and insightful observations about their journeys so far.
Thriive is a monthly women-only event held by Shiift, a local company which specialises in people, culture, leadership, and performance.
Their invigorating two-hour evening workshops are high-energy and packed full of useful content about how to navigate both hectic lives and demanding careers.
Held monthly, the first workshop focused on setting your future self-up for success.
Attendees were asked to imagine where they would be in five years and also 10 years’ time – asking the question – is the person you imagine similar to the person you are today?
Small group discussions were held, and animated conversations ensued followed by an opportunity for each group to share their thoughts with the rest of the room.
Workshop facilitator, Judy Porter, offered entertaining and thought-provoking dialogue on the topic and encouraged everyone to treat their future selves as a dear friend.
“By understanding and liking your future self you can make better informed decisions today,” she said.
“People who are more connected with their future selves are more successful and experience greater life satisfaction.”
The next event will take place on Thursday 21st March and will cover the interesting topic of ‘Finding Utopia For Introverts and Extroverts’.
All women are welcome and invited to join the group for monthly inspiration and connection that enables you to truly Thriive.
To find out more https://shiift.com.au/events/
Caption: Judy Porter from Shiift speaking at the most recent Thrive event. Photo credit: Rachael Smith
Earlier this week, I travelled out to Collinsville to meet with people interested in building tourism in Collinsville. It was such a great trip, and I really enjoyed the short time I had out there. My colleague, Cait Fleming, and I visited to work with the established Collinsville Tourism Advisory Group and it was a really collaborative session. There are so many ideas that come out in sessions like this.
If you’re in Collinsville and interested in joining in on the group, please email reception@tourismwhitsundays.com.au and we’ll ensure you’re on the list for the next meeting date.
As a local who had previously only visited Collinsville briefly, this week’s trip opened my eyes to what is a little town with a lot going on.
There’s a community pool, waterpark and playgrounds, a free 72-hour RV Park, the Coal Face Experience – a look at the history of mining in Collinsville - and many more activities to do.
On my list for next trip is the No.1 Mine Site and Historical Society, I’m looking forward to it.
If you find yourself out that way, make sure you stop in on the Pit Pony for lunch or dinner – the Mango Chilli Prawns are delicious!
Caption: Jade Richardson from Tourism Whitsundays with Shayne Crump from Collinsville Community Association. Photo supplied
A hidden oasis in the heart of Airlie Beach, Anchor Bar is celebrating a decade in business and the team are excited to invite locals and visitors alike to a weekend of birthday celebrations, in just over two weeks’ time.
And with a spectacular line up for the event, this will the celebration of the year!
“We have Chris Booroff and Friends ready to jam the afternoon away,” explained Josh Knutson, owner and operator of Anchor Bar.
“And a sweep of specials, with our Head Chef experimenting and showcasing his culinary skills with exotic and exciting dishes.”
And don’t miss the variety of delicious cocktail specials that Josh and his team have concocted, especially for this event. From sweet to sour and everything in between, there will be the perfect cocktail for your taste buds.
Open from 12pm, everyone is invited for this special event!
Anchor Bar first opened its doors back a decade ago when local couple, Josh and Leah Knutson embarked on a new venture at the old Terraces Bar which was an exciting local’s bar in need of revival.
Over the years, what Josh and Leah find the most pride in is playing a part in life’s milestones, of celebrations, and of memories.
“We’ve had christenings, then first and more birthdays,” Josh laughed.
“Birthdays, engagements, weddings, and everything in between, we love hosting special events and this is another one we are looking forward to sharing with our customers.”
WHAT: Anchor Bar Turns 10!
WHERE: Anchor Bar, 5 Golden Orchid Drive
WHEN: Sunday, March 10, from 12pm
It seems like the whole town has been talking about Eastwoods for several months now, so when I was asked where I’d like to go for my birthday dinner, I immediately knew where I wanted to book. I love Asian fusion cuisine and had been eagerly awaiting the moment I could devour some mouth-watering morsels at this popular local restaurant.
As soon as we arrived, we were ushered to our seats and served instantly by our waitress who eloquently detailed the cocktail of the day and specials list which she had memorised precisely. As a former-waitress myself, I was impressed by the service and doubly impressed when it remained equally proficient throughout the night.
Looking at the menu, every dish seemed exciting! A broad range of culinary delights from sticky pork ribs to raw hiramasa kingfish and spicy beef tartare. Despite being enthralled by the menu, however, I was unsure what to select. Thankfully, when our waitress returned, she explained that the dishes are meant for sharing so we enjoyed picking a variety.
Earlier that day, a friend had recommended the ‘Son In Law Eggs’ and, determined to be good to my word, we ordered them, along with the fried chicken wings for entree.
Brought to the table in rustic and charming kitchenware, both dishes looked like works of art and the tantalising aromas emanating from each was like a feast for the senses. Almost reluctant to break their beauty, we cut into the delicate looking eggs that were served with green mango chilli and sweet yellow bean sauce. The eggs were softly cooked to perfection and the sweet sauce left the tastebuds dancing in delight. I had never experienced eggs quite like this!
Next up were the fried chicken wings with lime leaf coriander house sweet chilli sauce and lime. The outer skin of the chicken wings gave a satisfying crunch when bitten into and the and the tangy sauce was punchy and vibrant. Again, some of the best I’d ever tasted.
For main course, we decided to share the Penang Curry with braised beef kipfler potato shallots and pickled cucumber. The meat and potatoes melted in your mouth and the sauce was deep and complex with a hundred flavours sending waves of bliss across your pallet. Meanwhile the pickled cucumber broke the flavour perfectly, its sharp tanginess a delicious contrast to the curry.
Sitting at our table afterwards with full and satisfied bellies, we felt absolute contentment. The rumours about Eastwoods are all true, a dining experience is an absolute delight and the food a lasting memory.
Food Review By Rachael Smith.
The newest kid on the block is here and they are here to stay, with a fantastic turn out for the opening of their new Bourbon Bar.
KC’s very own Bourbon Bar is making waves in the bourbon-whiskey world, with experts and connoisseurs coming out of the woodwork to put these specially curated bourbons to the test.
Owner and operator, and chief whiskey-drinker, Geoff Small “Smally” is eager to showcase this diverse selection.
“While you are exploring the 74 islands of the Whitsundays, you might as well explore our 74 new bourbons as well,” he said.
“Come on a journey with KC’s and pair our new bourbon cocktails with one of our bourbon flavoured dishes.
“Bourbon, steak and live music seem to all go hand in hand and are the perfect mix.”
Head Chef Troy Fuller has risen to the task, creating a series of dishes which perfectly blend the rich bourbon with delicate flavours.
“We love this selection of bourbon dishes for now, but we are already brewing up our next pick of dishes that is bourbon infused,” Troy explained.
“So, keep your eye out for our next menu re-invention in 4 weeks-time.”
BEST BOURBON COCKTAIL: The Jack and Joe:
Bourbon, Kahlua, espresso, honey, cream, dash of cinnamon and coffee beans
The return of the Whitsundays Writers Festival has just gotten better, with the announcement of internationally acclaimed author, Sally Hepworth, hosting a bespoke high tea book club, at My Rainbow Café.
Sally Hepworth is a renowned author, captivating hearts with her compelling storytelling.
With nine novels under her belt and over a million books sold globally, including her latest masterpiece, Darling Girls, Hepworth's literary prowess knows no bounds.
Festival President Karen Jacobsen expressed her excitement for the upcoming event, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome Sally to our Festival's Big Book Club High Tea.
“She is a talented author, and the event promises an afternoon filled with insight into her journey to literary success, including the exciting adaptations of her works to screen.”
The inclusion of Hepworth further enriches the Festival's stellar line-up, which already features distinguished authors such as Shankari Chandran, the 2023 Miles Franklin Literary Award winner, and renowned crime author Garry Disher.
“Our aim is to spotlight the remarkable success of Australian authors and showcase the extraordinary talent within our literary landscape,” Karen emphasised.
“The addition of Sally to the Festival’s line-up underscores our commitment to providing our community with unparalleled access to influential voices shaping contemporary literature. Stay tuned as we unveil more celebrated speakers in the coming weeks."
Save The Date
WHAT: Big Book Club High Tea
WHERE: My Rainbow Bakery, Shingley Beach
WHEN: Saturday, September 7, from 3.15pm to 4.45pm
Collinsville State High School have officially inducted their 2024 Student Leaders, with a ceremony held earlier this month.
The student leaders embody poise, confidence, and an eagerness to serve the school with pride and determination.
Senior Leaders
Cooper Groocock
Claudia Lee
Jayme Lee
Darcy Teichmann
Senior Student Council Executives
President: Cooper Groocock
Vice President: Claudia Lee
Secretary: Darcy Teichmann
Treasurer: Mckenzie Grosskreutz
House Captains Boomerang
Senior Captain: Kayne Bird
Junior Captain: Alexie Collett
Senior Vice Captain: Matilda Lee
Junior Vice Captain: Natalia Bull
House Captains Woomera
Senior Captain: Stevie Lee
Junior Captain: Katie Sammon
Senior Vice Captain: Shianne McGregor
Junior Vice Captain: Yasmin
'
1. Senior Leaders: L-R: Mckenzie, Darcy, Claudia and Cooper
2. Senior Student Council Executives Back : Cooper Front L-R: Jayme-Lee, Claudia and Darcy
3. House Captains Boomerang L-R: Kayne, Natalia, Matilda and Alexie
4. House Captains Woomera L-R: Yasmin, Katie, Shianne and Stevie – Lee. Photos supplied
The end of 1939 saw our first real holiday. Arrangements were made with Ken MacPherson to take our family and the Jenkins family to Nellie’s Beach. When Ken arrived with the seven Jenkins, Colin Hinschen (Doris Jenkins’ brother), his friend Bill Hewson and the five in our family, it made a total of 14, plus Ken the driver. Ken’s truck was a one ton four-cylinder Chev with a tray body.
We had borrowed two tents and used our empty 100-gallon tank to store clothes and food. So much had to be thought of - for instance, an axe to cut tent poles, a hurricane lantern, kerosene frying pan, billy cans, enamel plates, cutlery, pannikins etc. Being the first camping trip for both families meant a lot of sorting out so we did not double up, when everything plus people had to fit on a fairly small tray.
We set off with the smallest kids in the middle perched on whatever was available and the men at the back getting covered with dust. There were countless gullies with the crossings virtually straight up and down. The women were scared of the creek crossings with high banks and would get out and walk.
We arrived mid afternoon and unloaded. The men cut tent poles, set up camp, then went on the truck with the tank, filling it about half full from the water hole. They slid it off on skids and that was our week’s water supply for drinking and cooking.
During the day, the grownups would go fishing at Nellie’s Point. Only having three fishing lines that they borrowed with a piece of rock or coral for a sinker, they would take turns to fish. To get bait, Dad set me up with a grass tree rod, a cork and a perch line. He would smash a periwinkle for bait and I would soon catch a parrot fish which would then be chopped up and proved to supplement the larder of schnapper, bream and cod. In those days, we always scaled but never filleted.
It was a real adventure, sleeping on the ground, eating off a camp fire. Most of the children had never seen the ocean. It was a great time for everybody mixing together, sharing the work, we kids running around in the pools when the tide was out, swimming twice a day, probably the cleanest we ever were.
On Sunday, our neighbours, the Daffaras, arrived in their dickey seat Chrysler bearing fresh bread which was most welcome.
One evening, just on dark, there was a real scare. Our three-year-old sister was missing so we all scattered, calling her. Fortunately, while there was just enough light to see, Mum found her wandering between the beach and the scrub.
A chap, Len May, was camped a little further along. He and his mate, were going around to the gully at the end of Dingo Beach and Dad and I joined them. Len had a cast net and caught lots of small herring, whiting and mullet. Amongst them were small black eel tailed fish with a white stripe. Of course, I would have to pick one up! Talk about sting! Apparently, it was a type of cat fish. Len chewed up some tobacco and put it on my finger. It eased the pain somewhat but made me worry about picking up unknown fish in the future.
Eventually, the trip ended but this was to set a pattern for holiday trips to Dingo Beach for many years to come.
Text and photo courtesy of Proserpine Museum.
Larry Muller had 37 points in Tuesday's stableford event to beat Sean Gower by a shot. Anna Winterbourn edged out Nicole Cooper on 29 points. Pins went to Sean Gower, Diane Chard, Larry Muller and Tina Badenhorst.
Wednesday's two-shot winner was Anna Winterbourn with 31 points ahead of Tina Badenhorst; with the pins going to Diane Chard, Rehab Hull, Tina Badenhorst and Jacqueline Wall.
Sean Gower won the A division of Thursday's stableford by edging out Chris Brett on 37 points. John Strelec took out the B division with 36 points, John Oates was runner up on 35, and the pins were to Lewis Tuck and Gary Scotford.
Friday's Met run winner was Troy Leisch with 22 points ahead of George Steen on 19. Pins went to Elise Hodgson and George Steen.
The MBW A division winner was Scott Lee with 40 points ahead of Theunis Venter on 39. Marcus Heathcote won the B division with 38 points ahead of Jalen Jarvis on 36. Pins went to Joshua Mansley, Jayden Lloyd and Philip Batty.
Contributed with thanks to Tanya Bandow.
This week’s 9-hole stableford saw Edwina Pettiford take first place with 22pts, second with 21 pts was Melinda Macleod and third place with 20 pts c/b was Scotty Hayes – Williams.
Fridays 9-hole stableford saw Alan Clinch in first place with 22 pts c/b, second place with 22 pts was Ryan Kenny and third with 21 pts c/b was Tyson Flavel.
Sunday was our Monthly medal 18-hole stroke competition, a great turnout which saw Adam Singleton in first place with a 46 NETT, second with a 49 NETT was Jimmy Miller and third place was Tyson Flavel with a 52 NETT c/b.
Nearest the pin was Sean Fogarty and Troy Pettiford.
This Sunday 3rd March will be 18-hole stableford tee off anytime.
Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Green.
Ryan Kenny and Chris Bartlett. Photo supplied
Hi Everyone,
Great to hear Bowen Pink Stumps was another huge success over the weekend and congratulations to the organisers, Bowen Cricket Association, whose event was once again able to be included in the top 10 of fundraisers Australia-wide.
Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, the Bowen Pink Stumps event was made even more special by the attendance of cricketing legend Glenn McGrath who catapulted our small regional town onto the national playing field once again.
Our journalist, Bronte, was present on the day and was thrilled to get an exclusive interview with the man himself, commenting that he was indeed, very tall.
Speaking of Bronte, this is probably a good time to let you all know that sadly she is leaving us to return to her home town after a year writing across all four of our publications, and in particular this newspaper.
Since she started, Bronte has been a ray of light, not only in the office, but also with everyone she has met in the community.
I am frequently getting calls or involved in conversation where Bronte’s name is raised and praised far and wide.
She will be fondly remembered for her year in the ‘hot tropics’ – her hilarious phone interviews with good looking local musicians, her pineapple hair styles when it gets too hot and her ability to make every one she spends time with feel great.
For me personally, I will miss the massively important role she played writing often dozens of articles every week, always ready to help, forward-thinking and jumping in to predict what the paper needs next.
Bronte will now be moving closer to family who she has missed greatly over the last year, and we wish her all the luck in the future.
She is not leaving until the second week of March so if you see her around over the next few weeks make sure you wish her well.
Rach
Quote of the Week: “Change is hard at first, messy in the middle and gorgeous at the end” (Robin Sharma)
The Year 12 cohort at Whitsunday Christian College spread the Valentine’s Day love last week, gifting students and members of staff with a rose on Wednesday, February 14.
The students were excited to get involved, hand delivering roses to all students, from pre-kindergarten to Year 11, and all members of staff.
“We thought that roses would be a great way to spread love and kindness throughout the school for Valentine’s Day,” the Year 12 students explained.
“Staff, students, and families responded really positively to our idea. The students were especially excited to buy flowers and write notes for family, friends, and even beloved teachers.
“Everyone was really supportive and onboard with our plans whether that was by assisting us in preparing the roses or buying roses. The excitement definitely showed when everyone got their roses on Wednesday morning,” the cohort explained.
“The response from the school as a whole was much bigger than ever expected. We ended up selling about 450 roses.”
Principal of the College, Kylie Langshore said she is proud of the students.
“Our students are leading with purpose and have a heart for service. Student-led initiatives have such impact on the College community I am excited to see the fruit of these.”
By Paul Gellatly
Bowen’s Chamber of Commerce has raised a jar to the health of Whitsunday region projects ahead of council elections in mid-March.
At its monthly meeting on February 14, the chamber heard addresses from Chris Monsour, agronomist and director of Prospect Agriculture, which operates a 250-hectare agave farm between Bowen and Proserpine; and Sean Brown, director of Bowen Pipeline Company, which is planning to build a 115-kilometre water pipeline from the Burdekin River to Bowen.
Chris Monsour told the audience of about 40 people that Prospect Agriculture's first agave harvest was in December 2023 and the resulting bottled debut has been on a limited release online, with Mr Monsour assuring thirsty first customers that their purchases were being delivered "about now".
The focus of the first four years of the project has been to determine how best to harvest the plants to yield its heart, or pina, which has a 35 per cent sugar content, about twice that of sugar cane. There is a range of uses for the processed pina, and one of the first is a trio of alcoholic beverages including whisky, vodka and agave spirit (known in Mexico as tequila).
Mr Monsour said agave had proved an ideal crop for the dry-region farm, although he conceded that "the Mexicans are probably not too happy with what we are doing".
The agave is harvested by a computer-controlled harvesting machine, which will process about 1000 plants a day, or a plant a minute, far faster than the manual harvest of Mexican tequila. The agave hearts are processed on site and according to Mr Monsour, "all the reports from those who know about spirits is that it is a very good spirit."
Mr Monsour said the international agave project was based on a slow-growing succulent crop (planting started in 2020) that was only really starting to get into gear now. New plantings were being added continuously and there are hopes that there will be a million agave under cultivation by 2025, up from about 580,000 now.
"If you laid the rows of agave end-to-end you would go from here to Rockhampton", he said
The farm is following green practices, with weed control being left to three goats, which Mr Monsour said gratefully were not eating the agave plants ... so far.
1: Bowen Chamber of Commerce chairman Bruce Hedditch (left) with Chris Monsour, Cr Julie Hall and Sean Brown.
Raising money and awareness for a cause close to their hearts, local couple Jared and Sophie Russell have launched a campaign to encourage more donations to fund much-needed research into brain cancer.
Sophie’s father, Brendan who is in his late 50s, was sadly diagnosed with a Glioblastoma Multiforme grade 4 in August 2023, and since then the family have been passionate about raising both money and awareness.
Originally from Armidale NSW, Brendan (Brenno) is a regular visitor to the Whitsundays, enjoying the atmosphere at the Airlie Beach Hotel.
He now has plans to move to the region permanently at the end of the year to be close to his family.
Fortunately, his treatment has been excellent following a referral to a highly skilled Neurosurgeon, who did a fantastic job at resecting 95 per cent of the tumour at the end of August.
He has since undergone six weeks of radiotherapy and chemotherapy at Tamworth Base Hospital and is now completing more chemotherapy at home.
“Dad has the best attitude and outlook on life, and we know he will fight this with everything he has!” said Sophie.
To support her dad and raise money for additional research, Sophie has been sponsored to shave her head for charity.
Brenno is flying up to the Whitsundays this week and will personally shave off his daughter’s hair in a special gathering which will include close friends and family.
“My decision to shave my head is to raise much needed funds to help further research advancement for brain cancer,” explained Sophie.
“My goal is to raise $10,000, if you would like to support my fundraising efforts it would be amazing! Any donation, big or small, would be greatly appreciated! Thanks so much!”
So far, she has raised $6,295 and hopes to reach her goal over the coming weeks.
If you wish to donate, please go to the hostyourown.markhughesfoundation.com.au and select Sophie Russell.
1: Brenno’s daughter, Sophie, will shave her head for charity this week. Photo supplied
2: Brendan was diagnosed with Glioblastoma Multiforme grade 4 in August 2023. Photo supplied
Married at First Sight Australia Season 11 couple Eden and Jayden checked into Airlie Beach, for their Episode 3 honeymoon.
The Australian branch of the Show, Married at First Sight follows a number of strangers from across Australia who participate in a social experiment and are paired together by ‘love’ experts.
While the participants are not legally married for the television show, the stars complete an unofficial commitment ceremony, enjoy a luxurious honeymoon, live together for a time, and at the end of each week, enter a commitment ceremony to declare if they will stay together or leave the experiment.
First airing in 2015, over 100 couples have been paired together, however only about 10 couples have managed to keep the spark and remain together following the conclusion of their season.
Season 11 couple, Eden and Jayden join a short list of couples who have honeymooned in the Whitsundays with Married at First Sight, following their unofficial commitment ceremony, staying at Club Wyndham in Airlie Beach.
Eden is a 28-year-old Gold Coast based recruitment manager, who has been single for three years, following her previous partner cheating on her with her best friend. Now deciding to put her trust in the experts, she is looking for a partner who is ambitious, generous, and loyal.
Jayden is a 26-year-old Queensland kickboxer, who is used to keeping people at arm’s length, and is looking for a partner who is fit, ambitious and independent.
Eden and Jayden, staying at Club Wyndham. Photo supplied
With the election race heating up, Mayoral Candidates are looking for every opportunity to engage with the community and The Whitsunday Conservation Council (WCC) are hosting a special event which is open to the public.
The Mayoral Candidate Forum is due to take place on 28 February, 6:30 pm start at the Reef Gateway Hotel in Cannonvale.
It is a free forum and everyone is welcome.
The forum theme is Sustainability and Liveability in the Whitsundays.
“As a Great Barrier Reef destination, the Whitsundays is second to none. But as tourism grows, so does the community. This growth is putting pressure on what we love most about the region, our natural environment,” said Tony Fontes from the Whitsunday Conservation Council.
“Our Council plays a key role in promoting sustainability and liveability in the Whitsundays. It is important that our elected officials recognise and fulfil their role. At the forum you will hear the candidates for mayor explain their vision and leadership for our region.”
WCC is a community group operated by volunteers, with a supporter base of over 1,500 individuals. WCC works closely with Whitsunday Regional Council, advising on environmental issues and recently won their Environmental Achievement Australia Day Award.
The community is welcome to submit questions for the candidates through WCC. Simply email them to forum@whitsundayconservation.org.au by midday, Tuesday, 27 February.
Doors at the Reef Gateway Hotel conference room will open at 6:00 pm for a 6:30 pm start.
Please share with us one personal experience during your campaign trail so far that has really reinforced the reason you are running for council?
Richard Evans
Mayoral Candidate
It's the moments of truth with residents throughout the Whitsundays that drive home a common frustration: the perceived lack of effective engagement and responsiveness from our Council. This sentiment echoes across regions and towns, signalling a clear need for change. We can either do more of the same, keeping the status quo or vote for change. I want to bring the Whitsundays Pride back, fostering a culture of leadership, unity and integrity. My integrity statement is on my website: richard4mayor.com.
Ry Collins
Mayoral Candidate
During the last week I’ve had a number of meetings including two of similar focus, one with a Bowen resident and another with a local hospitality business who expressed a strong desire for a council that genuinely values community engagement, delivers a strong plan, and lives by its public commitments and code. Their passion on these issues was inspiring and underscored the community’s craving for transparency, accountability, and a council committed to embedding customer service at the heart of its values and organisational culture.
Peter Hood
Mayoral Candidate
Peter Hood and Phil Batty are the only two candidates that have been threatened with legal action from the Whitsunday Regional Council for getting too close to the truth, just like they did with Mr Allan Dufty when they labelled him a serial pest back in 2011. Allan is loved by the community. We are not going away; we will not be silenced, and I think the recent behaviour of the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry has been disgusting.
Phil Batty
Mayoral Candidate
I approached a member of the public to tell him I was standing for Mayor and hand him a flyer. Immediately he reached for his phone, opened it, and showed me the screen from his notes. It said “Mayor Philip Batty”, he went on to say he read up and researched the profiles of all the candidates the night before and his take from that was Philip Batty Mayor. This was before seeing the flyer and a little more about my story and who I am.
Tony Price
Division 2 Councillor Candidate
Housing and accommodation are an issue mentioned all the time. There is a chronic shortage of 5–6-star accommodation all the way down to accommodation for staff and employees. Housing is too expensive so the Council as a matter of priority must look at ways to bring units, hotels, houses, and other forms of accommodation onto the market immediately. Maybe it’s a cultural shift whereby lots and houses are smaller or bigger densities used. This affects our ability grow and prosper as a region.
Clay Bauman
Division 2 Councillor Candidate
I'm encouraged by the support for my campaign, evidenced by the abundant “VOTE CLAY” signs in Division 2. All placed in accordance with Council’s guidelines at private properties with the owners' consent. This overwhelming support and other community feedback of appreciation for my council representation fuels my commitment to remain our voice in Council. It's heartening to see my efforts recognised collectively, motivating me to continue working towards our shared vision for the community's vibrancy, strength, and safety.
John Finlay
Division 6 Councillor Candidate
The experience of the overwhelming support of the community for my candidacy has really reinforced my desire to be Councillor.
The Cannonvale Police Station is welcoming its newest recruit, First Year Constable Zac Richters-Nielsen, who joined the team last week.
Relocating from Brisbane, Zac’s professional background was in banking before he decided to make a career change and join the police force.
“I have always wanted to be a police officer since I was a little kid,” Zac explained.
Zac has started his new position at Cannonvale Police Station and says he is eager to get on the ground.
“I bring a readiness and eagerness to learn,” he shared.
“I am excited to experience what policing in the Whitsundays has to offer.”
During his training, Zac most enjoyed working alongside other recruits.
“My favourite aspects of training would be the other recruits, working closely alongside likeminded people made the experience very enjoyable.
Being pushed outside my comfort zone and building on my own capabilities and skill set was equally as rewarding.”
Since relocating to the Whitsundays, Zac has most enjoyed venturing to the beaches, something very different from Brisbane.
In his spare time he enjoys going to the beach and being social with mates.
Whitsunday’s newest Police Officer is second from the left, with three other new first year constables and State Member for Mackay, Julieanne Gilbert. Photo supplied
Terms 3 and 4 intakes of PCYC Whitsunday’s Get Set For Work Program have unveiled a refurbished dresser which has been brought back to life and is available for sale at the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre’s Furniture Shop.
Get Set For Work program coordinator Scott Lynch said he was looking for a project to complete with participates during the term, when the idea of renovating and refurbishing a piece of furniture came to mind.
“The Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre generously donated us the dresser, which had been donated to them, and all together, we sanded, painted and refinished it,” Scott explained.
Rebecca Woods, the Executive Officer of Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre welcomed the project, saying “All of us community organisations collaborate often, so this wasn’t the first time, nor will it be the last time that we all work together.”
“This is something that makes our town different, this collaboration, and it happens a lot more than people realise. Being a small town, we all rely on each other and network with each other,” Rebecca said.
The program participants worked with guidance from the Men’s Shed in Cannonvale, under the watchful eye of President Don McDonald.
“Scott rang us and told us he had some boys who wanted to get some hands-on experience and they were great,” Don explained.
“There’s was quite a bit of work to be done on the dresser, and we showed them how to do it, and then left it to them. The boys didn’t work quick, but it’s come out great.”
And Bunnings Airlie Beach generously donated the necessary products and treatments.
“Bunnings have a strong commitment to giving back to communities,” explained Kaci, the Bunnings Airlie Beach Activities Organiser.
“We’ve worked with PCYC and the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre before and we are always excited to get on board.”
The dresser was officially handed back over to the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre to be placed for sale in the Furniture Centre, ready for a new home.
“We wanted to do something to give back to the community,” Scott explained.
“It gave our participants something constructive to do, something great to complete and great skills to achieve. And now a number of this term’s participants have gone into trades, stemming from the skills they learned over this project.”
1. The dresser before the Get Set For Work team refurbishment. Photo supplied
2. The completed dresser handed over to the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre. Photo: Bronte Hodge
Completely student led and student run, Proserpine State High School’s Seagrass Theatre and Music Company is gearing up for their 2024 production, reaching for new heights of performance, choreography, vocals, and costuming.
With over 90 students involved, including on stage, backstage, technical, front of house, and in the orchestra, the Seagrass Theatre and Music Company will be performing the inspiring ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat’.
Established in 2021, Seagrass allows students to explore the whole theatre experience, and provides them with the opportunity to be in a production outside of the bi-annual whole-school musicals.
“Our passion for the theatre really led Seagrass to what it is today,” explained Year 11 student Allegra Bradley, the productions Head of Promotions, as well as one of the show’s narrators.
Telling the story of Joseph from The Book of Genesis, ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat’ follows Joseph, who is betrayed by his brothers and sold into slavery. Created by Andrew Lloyd-Webber and Tim Rice, this is a must-see rock opera.
Year 10 student Wiremu Tairaki reprises his position as a minor role with a big character, coming on stage as the Pharaoh. This is his second school-based production, having performed on the school theatre stage initially with 2023’s production ‘Sweet Charity’.
“Theatre is something I am passionate about,” he explained.
Year 11 student Arwen Edwards-Bland returns to the stage with multiple roles in this production, often with 30-second quick changes and enigmatic characters. However, her biggest passion is choreography, having choreographed three of the dances for ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat’, and teaching them to the cast.
In fact, Arwen’s future prospects involve moving into musical theatre, before opening her own dance studio and dance school.
“It’s always been a dream of mine,” Arwen explained. “Dancing is a passion of mine, and I really want to teach dance.”
With her natural talent for choreographing, Arwen is excited to take to the stage and showcase her skills to a packed audience.
Year 11 student Hayden Hudak comes on stage as Reuben, one of Joseph’s 11 brothers.
For Hayden, this production really excites him, as his passion aligns highly with the stage.
“I have been involved with Seagrass since its inception and have always been helping put together shows and helping at every single rehearsal,” he explained.
Hayden said he was looking to pursue theatre as a profession following secondary school, wishing to get onto Broadway.
Not surprisingly, Hayden’s childhood is closely tied with musical theatre, having been born in New York City, and spending time at the theatre with his parents. Hayden is well known amongst the cast and crew for his tips and tricks for the stage, and for always being a helping hand.
“We wish to thank Mr McDermid, Mrs Napier and all the teachers and staff who have assisted and mentored our students withing Seagrass,” Allegra explained.
Allowing equal opportunity for all students with varying interests, the Seagrass rehearses and performs from the purpose-built Performing Arts Centre at Proserpine State High School.
“It’s amazing how everyone gets behind us and supports us.”
‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat’ performances will be April 18 to 20, with three evening shows and one matinee on Saturday.
Tickets are going on sale in the upcoming fortnight. Keep updated via the Proserpine State High School Facebook page and website for more information.
Some of the Seagrass Theatre cast, ready for the ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat’. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge
Around town, Jaime Sparke is a notable figure, a much loved local and dedicated music fan, whose influence and impact is felt within the waves of the beats in the street.
He has become a regular face on the Airlie Beach Main Street, having moved to the region over 10 years ago, the temperature and climate agreeing with him and his active lifestyle, with many a local recognising him and his furry friend, Rocco.
Jaime’s diagnosis of cerebral palsy has not hindered his passion for life, with his active lifestyle including his job with the Airlie Beach Hotel in Band Promotions, his love for the beach and being outdoors, and spending time with his Rocco.
However, his primary mode of transport, a 20-year-old Honda Jazz, has outgrown its appropriateness, no longer supporting his needs, or catering to his lifestyle.
“The car isn’t entirely accessible,” explained Ben, a member of Jaime’s support family.
“Every time we use the car, we damage a part of Jaime’s wheelchair, and the car. And having Rocko riding on Jaime’s lap is cute, but not ideal.
“For the safety aspect, we would prefer something with a bit more space, something easier for Jaime to get into, and that we’re not damaging his chair too much.”
The NDIS specify they will only make the necessary modifications to a brand-new vehicle, something which Jaime and his family is unable to financially afford at this time.
With this in mind, Jaime has decided to crowd fund his way to a new car, hoping that people will support his desire for comfort and freedom which, in turn will enable him to give back more to the community he loves.
Primarily communicating through sign language, Ben translated for Jaime, explaining that Jaime is looking forward to riding shotgun in the new car, as well as sleeping in the car comfortably when travelling around
“Jaime is also excited to go on more road trips,” Ben translated.
“On our last road trip, he got a lasting piece of memorabilia, a tattoo of Rocko that he just loves.”
Having a new vehicle will provide freedom and comfort to Jaime.
“Jaime’s a bit of a local celebrity, and we all appreciate the people who have donated to the cause,” Ben explained.
To donate to Jaime’s new ride, please scan the QR Code here.
1. Jaime Sparke with Rocco riding shotgun
2. Jaime and Rocco at work at the Airlie Beach Hotel
Last month I confessed to my dislike for setting goals – this month I’m professing my love for feedback!
And not just positive feedback – feedback which, when phrased the right way, is constructive, motivating and provides a clear pathway to creating tangible positive outcomes.
Negative, positive, constructive, and those hideous 360s – all feedback can be fraught with danger if it doesn’t land the right way and can result in further discord in the workplace than previous. Here’s some simple rules in providing constructive feedback to help you navigate your way to successfully build engagement, trust and growth.
1. It’s about the behaviour – not the person. Discuss feedback objectively rather than create a personal attack on a team-mate. i.e. “You’re always late” vs “Do you think your Ops Manager role could be ready to roll by 8am each morning? If so, what’s stopping this from occurring?” The second scenario creates a safe entity to discuss further rather than having to defend your actions (which may occur in the first scenario).
2. Feedback is a dialogue – not a directive. This means you are entering into a two-way discussion where you need to invite them to contribute to the discussion. If you simply give feedback and end the discussion you have only posited your point of view. This can alienate many people and create resentment if they have not been given a space for their perspective and to be heard.
3. Listening creates space to learn – so learn to listen rather than continually provide your perspective.
4. Create trust in workplace relationships – to be open to critical feedback we need to trust the person has our best interest at heart
5. How often do you ask for feedback on your own performance? Not only will you gain insights into how others perceive you, you will undoubtably find new areas to grow in.
6. Positive effort should praise effort as well as ability – some people may never kick the goals you set out for them but should still be recognised for the amount of effort they put in to the job at hand.
7. Strong workplace relationships are built on a culture of honest, respectful feedback
8. And lastly, everyone loves receiving positive feedback, but many just forget to give it ... don’t be that person.
Holy cow – blink and it is the end of February! 2024 is charging ahead! Have you settled in and hitting your stride? Or are you still trying to get a handle on the year?
An essential quality for everyone in business is endurance – from starting a new business, having big goals to achieve, or just your to do list. Endurance in businesses means owners, operators, and their teams have the willingness to stick it out and the ability to work through challenges productively. Like any endurance athlete, businesses need to work on their strengths, fitness, and resilience to be the best and on top of their game. Looking after you and your team’s physical and psychological health is a great starting point for endurance building. While the year might be moving quickly for some, we have many months ahead.
Just in case you missed it, the Whitsunday Regional Council election campaign is on.
The Chamber congratulates all Mayoral and Councillor candidates for stepping forward and their commitment to serving our community. As in the past, the Chamber will once again provide our members the opportunity to meet the mayoral candidates to explore specific issues relating to business, industry, and economic development. Event details are available on our website. This will be a member only event – focussed on business and economic issues specifically relating to local business and industry.
Post-election, the Chamber looks forward to briefing our newly elected representatives on our Ten Point Advocacy Plan. The purpose of the Chamber’s advocacy plan is to reflect and clearly articulate the major issues of shared aspiration and concern for the Whitsunday business community as a way of influencing decisions across all levels of government.
With Allan Milostic, President, Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce & Industry
By Paul Gellatly
At last week’s Bowen Chamber of Commerce meeting, Sean Brown, CEO of Bowen Pipeline Company, outlined his vision for a $600 million, 115km pipeline from the Burdekin to Bowen, using on-site extracted HDPE plastic pipeline yielding a 45 per cent cost saving and a five-million km reduction in B-double truck movements.
The pipe is to be extruded in 100m lengths and laid in a cutting that follows an old stock route for much of the way, which will simplify the approvals process. It will end at the Don River and will have 72 branches, many going to agriculture, which will ensure that the growing season can be extended from eight months a year to the entire year, and additional job certainty for farm workers. It will also allow opening up of a 400,000ha area south of Home Hill to high-value cropping.
BPC is in consultation with Sunwater to take a minimum of 80,000ML a year from the Burdekin dam total of 195,000ML available, providing a boost for agriculture, aquaculture, construction and others. The Burdekin water could also be used to top up Bowen's supply from Proserpine when needed.
Mr Brown said the company was seeking equity funding for the project, based on a model that he said aligned with industry expectations and timetables.
Another beneficiary could be the proposed HyNQ North Queensland Clean Energy hub, where water could be supplied for hydrogen production.
Mr Brown said the Federal Government had contributed $5 million to advance the business case, which was to be lodged in the next few weeks. He acknowledged the support of state ministers for agriculture, Mark Furner, and water, Glenn Butcher, and local member Dale Last.
"We hope that the (state) ministers will decide the project before the election," he said.
"We should be ready to start 12 months after that."
The meeting also farewelled Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor, Cr Julie Hall, who is retiring ahead of the March local government poll.
Cr Hall outlined some of her achievements during her term, which included expansion of the Proserpine airport terminal and increased flight services, and the Shute Harbour marine terminal, and the "tiny homes" project for older women.
Chamber chairman Bruce Hedditch paid tribute to Cr Hall for overriding the perceived alternating funding biases between north and south in the region, adding that: "You brought us all together."
Most countries have a system to encourage citizens to save for their retirement. In the USA they are called 401K Accounts, and, in the UK, they are called Pension Accounts. In Australia we call our system the Superannuation system.
Is our super system a good system? Would we get a gold medal in the ‘Super Olympics’?
When assessing a retirement system, the big questions are, how much investment choice and flexibility you have, and what access to your money you are giving up in return for the tax incentives offered. In Australia all types of super products operate under the same legislation around access and tax, but different types of products have more investment choice and better tax management. In this article we’ll focus on the overall system and next month we’ll delve into the different types of super products - industry funds, retail funds and self-managed funds.
Investment Choice. Like their UK and USA based competitors, Australian super funds can invest in a wide range of investments both directly and via managed accounts. You can invest in traditional assets like cash, fixed interest, shares and property as well as the newer, less proven trading investments like currency and crypto. However, all investments must be for the sole purpose of funding the members retirement and there are rules to stop schemes to derive any benefits from your super investments before retirement. In all three country’s systems it is possible to borrow or gear to help purchase investments in your super account. On these criteria, our system is pretty good and line ball with the USA and UK.
Where our system really shines is regards tax benefits and access. There’s always a trade-off for the generous tax benefits of super in losing access to your money until retirement. In our system the tax benefits are huge, personal marginal tax rates for the bulk of people working full time are in the 34.5% bracket ($45,000pa to $120,000pa) with higher income earners, like miners, often in the second highest bracket on 39% ($120,000pa to $180,000pa). Our super system is attractive in the accumulation period, pre age 60, where interest and deductible contributions are taxed at 15%. Even more so in the pension period post 60 and retirement where there is 0% tax on interest earned and 0% tax on pensions or lump sums drawn out. Full, tax-free access to your money in retirement.
Based on the unrestricted access to your money and a zero-tax rate in retirement, our super system is world class and takes out the gold medal at the ‘Super Olympics’.
If you think you could benefit from a discussion with a Financial Planner, give us a call on 49467359 of visit www.eclipsefp.com.au
There’s no obligation, the first meeting is free and all fees are spelled out clearly in advance. If you’re not sure, try coming to our Retirement Planning seminar in April, keep an eye on our Facebook page and this paper for details.
This week marked the start of our latest campaign aimed at boosting visitation through the traditionally quieter periods. We have kicked off with a billboard outside Brisbane Airport and a sponsorship of ‘The Daily Aus’ newsletter and Podcast to target the under 35 demographic nationally.
If you travel outside The Whitsundays in the coming weeks and months, keep your eyes peeled for our world-class Whitsundays experiences and accommodation operators in ads on social media.
They are also on display banner ads on websites and on bus stops and billboards, on the radio and even on the television in our key market areas – Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne!
We’re giving a taste of The Whitsundays to all the soon-to-be shivering residents of Australia’s southern states and our fellow Queenslanders down south.
Last week I celebrated my one-year anniversary at Tourism Whitsundays, which also marks one year of living in The Whitsundays – where has the time gone?
In the last year I haven’t stopped pinching myself – I can’t believe that I am lucky enough to call this region home. If you haven’t been out to experience the beauty in our backyard recently, this is your sign to get out there!
Are you a Bowen local, with a passion for the region, an interest in writing and storytelling, and desire to give back to the local youth?
If so, the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre has the program for you!
The idea for the Program stemmed from a team chat where it was noticed that Bowen’s youngest didn’t know much about local traditions and history.
“Our children don’t know a lot of the traditions that Bowen has, things that the older in our community just inherently know,” explained Stephanie Cora, Bowen Neighbourhood Centre’s Executive Officer.
“The Bowen Collective is about story, of sharing stories that are central to Bowen.”
From this conversation, the team decided to introduce The Bowen Collective as a short 10-week program, where locals get together to create, illustrate, and write children’s books, covering Bowen’s history, traditions, and folklore.
“It’s for locals by locals,” Stephanie said.
“Our goal is for these books to go into our local schools for students to read, for teachers to use, and for our children to grow more knowledgeable about the beautiful town they live in.”
Organised and hosted by Bowen Neighbourhood Centre, the Bowen Collective is looking for volunteers and participants to take part in the program.
Contact the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre for further information on 07 4786 2111, or info@bowennc.org.au.
Expressions of interest close Friday March 1
With two more months of cyclone season on the cards on the first half of 2024, now is the best time to get cyclone prepared, with Scott and Lisa Raisbeck of Bowen Small Motors ready and prepped to get you and your family best equipped.
Scott’s number one necessity during a cyclone is a capable and appropriate generator.
“And even outside of cyclone season, we have enough power blackouts, that having a generator handy is great in any emergency,” he explained.
“However, having a generator is great, but making sure to maintain is the best thing to keep it going.”
Scott’s top tips for maintaining your generator:
“Use good fuel. We use 95 Octane, but don’t use 98, because it’s too high in octane.
“When you’re not using the generator for months at a time, change the fuel regularly. Or, remove all the fuel and leave it until you need it again in the summer months.
“If you prefer to leave it full of fuel, in the case of an emergency, get a good stabilizer, which makes your fuel last longer.”
Scott typically sees an influx of generator repairs as a warning is called for a potential tropical cyclone, for issues that are simple to avoid.
“Keeping your generator well maintained, with either a stabilizer in the fuel or empty when not used makes sure that no blockages can interfere with the carburettor,” Scott explained.
“It is also a good thing to check your air filters frequently. This is a simple thing but can cause a pain of issues.”
Scott Raisbeck, looking after your generator this cyclone season. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge
Perfect for the older Bowen locals, the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre is eager to launch their Stay Connected program which helps participants use technology effectively.
Designed for Bowen locals over the age of 55-years-old, the Stay Connected program is a weekly program, that will run for 12-months, with small, yet intimate classes, where the program coordinators can ensure each participant is confident and able to navigate the week’s topic effectively.
“We’ve designed this program to assist individuals to navigate the internet,” Bowen Neighbourhood Centre Executive Officer, Stephanie Cora explained.
The program will cover how to use different smart phones, including Apple and Android devices, iPads and tablets, and integral websites and apps that are incredibly useful to modern life.
These apps include MyGov, HotDoc and other health related apps, email, online shopping apps for Woolworths and Coles, and the Whitsunday Regional Council Disaster Dashboard.
“We have this program kicking off in March, so please register your interest today,” urged Stephanie.
The program will also include cheat sheets of the week’s session, so that participants can easily reflect and remember the completed topics.
“It’s so handy. Put the cheat sheet on the fridge and if you forget something, it’s just right there!”
Contact the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre to register today.
Register your expression of interest by calling the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre on 4786 2111
Anyone in the community that wakes up in the morning feeling sad, lost or alone is encouraged to reach out and come along to the On The Men-d Support Group which takes place at the Skatepark in Cannonvale every Wednesday.
Initially a men’s group, the support network is now open to everyone regardless of gender.
Established by qualified counsellor, Bob Eden, the informal weekly catch-up is an opportunity for people to share their thoughts and feelings in a safe and respectful space.
“It’s all about expressing your feelings and helping you heal,” said Bob.
“If you want to share, then share, if you don’t want to, then don’t, it’s totally up to you.
“This is a safe place of non-judgement where everyone will feel acceptance and validation.”
Bob started his own mental health journey in 1984 when he began suffering with depression, a condition he battled for 20 years.
During this time, he was “locked into anti-depressant addiction” and living in a system which he believes “wanted customers not cures”.
It took him many years to realise that what really helped him was talking and sharing his experiences with others.
This is the main impetus behind his support group where the philosophy of the talking stick offers everyone in the group a voice to share their stories if they wish.
The support group takes place every Wednesday at the Skatepark in Cannonvale at 10am.
There is also a meeting every Saturday at 7am via zoom.
For more information about the group, please contact Bob directly on fideliobob@hotmail.com or call him on 0458 772 726.
WHAT: On The Men’d Support Group
WHERE: Cannonvale Skatepark
WHEN: Every Wednesday at 10am
Caption: Bob Eden started the support group to encourage other people to share their stories. Photo credit: Rachael Smith