Whitsunday Life

EASTER BUNNY IS COMING

Following an 11-month trial period, a brand-new Freight Distribution Centre was officially opened at Whitsunday Coast Airport on Monday.

The new service will transport high-yield perishable produce such as seafood, fruit, and vegetables to major urban centres such as Melbourne, Sydney or Brisbane.

This means that suppliers can go crabbing in the Whitsundays in the morning and sell their produce at the Sydney Markets in the afternoon.

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Editor’s Note

Hi Everyone,

It’s been a tragic start to the Easter holidays with the sad news that a young couple perished in a light aircraft crash near Proserpine Airport on Sunday evening.

You can read the full story on the front page of Mackay Life, if you wish.

I happened to be at the airport on Monday morning when the news that the wreckage of the plane had been discovered and their bodies found.

Since then, I have been thinking about how the devastating news would have travelled to loved ones whose lives will undoubtedly never be the same again.

The pain and complete despair they would be feeling is hard to imagine.

The couple were so young and with such a wonderful future ahead, it feels particularly cruel that this has been taken away from them.

It is a reminder, however, that

not one of us knows what lies ahead – a snap decision to get in a vehicle – whether that be a light plane ride or to nip round the corner in the car to get a carton of milk – no-one knows when that one journey could be our last.

That’s why it is so important to hold our family close, never go to sleep on an argument and spend every precious second enjoying life – being kind to others and ourselves.

While we are taking time off to enjoy the Easter long weekend, watching kids cover their faces with chocolate, spending time with visiting relatives and generally relaxing in our beautiful region, let’s remember how sweet life is and appreciate these moments before they become memories.

A BONNET FOR GOOD

Every year school students across the country make their Easter Bonnets out of an array of colourful materials, glitter, paint and plastic nick nacks.

Often the bonnets are used briefly for the school parade and are then set aside – but what happens to them after this?

Cannonvale State School considered how each bonnet could contribute to additional landfill and so asked their students to make their bonnets out of decomposable materials this year. One young lady who took on the challenge to create an entirely decomposable bonnet was Year Six student Chelsea Baines.

crafting the bonnet with her mum, had been extra worthwhile.

The winning bonnet was made using an old Gum Tree that had fallen over the creek in her back yard.

Chelsea gathered sticks and created a triangular base to hold the structure in place. She used pruned banana tree leaves to decorate the bonnet and cut little bilby shapes out of the leaves.

“Bilbies are the new Easter bunnies!” sad Chelsea.

“I loved this project and I think that more people could get involved because it was compostable, although it was definitely more challenging.

Rach“Breathe. Let Go. And remind yourself that this very moment is the only one you know you have for sure” (Oprah Winfrey)

Her efforts were rewarded when she won the award for Best Easter Bonnet in the school after the parade on Wednesday. Chelsea said she was thrilled with the win and excited to hear that the hours she spent

“I put mine in the garden so it could break down and when I checked yesterday it had already started!”

Chelsea was given a box of Easter goodies as a prize.

Chelsea Baines in her compostable Easter Bonnet

Not Just A “Myna” Problem

The population of Indian Myna birds has grown significantly over the past few years and many locals are concerned about the impact this invasive pest is having on native wildlife.

Local nature lover Debra Burns has been following their rise in population for several years and she believes there are now over 3000 living in the region, compared to the 100 that Whitsunday Regional Council have listed in their Feral Animal Species Response Plan. This plan allocates 10 days per year for Council staff to work on extermination efforts and Ms Burns believes they are not providing enough funding for traps needed to catch the birds.

She would like to see an Environment Levee put in place.

“They are the most invasive species in the world,” she said.

“The reason they are so dangerous is because it’s like the Hell’s Angels have moved in – they take your home and they kill your kids.

“I call them Hell’s Angels of the bird world because they take nests even if they don’t want them.”

Indian Myna Birds first came to Australia from Southeast Asia in the 1850s but it wasn’t until 2015 that they arrived in the Whitsundays.

Since then, their numbers have grown exponentially.

The International Union for the Conservation of Nature declared the Indian Myna Bird as one of only three birds species in the

A “Standard” For The Bruce

Whitsunday Regional Council will submit a motion to the National General Assembly of Local Government seeking support from the Federal Government on the standard of the Bruce Highway.

The North’s main highway has been under increased scrutiny over the past two years after both an increased number of damaging weather events, fatalities, and delayed roadworks caused closures and unsafe conditions.

Bruce Highway were cut off in our region and others, stranding motorists across the network.”

The highway – which stretches close to 1,700 kilometres from Brisbane to Cairns - is the major north-south freight and commuter corridor in the state.

In recent months, the State Government’s commitment to its upkeep has been called into question by prominent Whitsunday figures, including State Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm and Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox.

world to be included among the world’s 100 worst invasive species.

They are very dominant and are known to gang up on other smaller birds, often attacking in packs, destroying nests and breaking eggs.

“They are killing native wildlife in front of our eyes,” said Ms Burns.

“But the majority of the people in the Whitsundays would be blissfully unaware of what’s going on.”

Continued on page 15.

Council’s Director Infrastructure Services Adam Hagy said the motion to the Federal Government advocates for a highway which meets that expected of a main thoroughfare, especially one of the longest in the country.

“A highway that is immune to the weather impacts that the Whitsunday Region faces and any weather event across the state, for that matter,” Mr Hagy said.

“Recently, during a rain event in January, several sections of the

Both members made extraordinary claims of “neglect” in reference to upgrades at Goorganga Plains – the site of flooding which Mr Hagy referred to.

To the particular chagrin of locals travelling North to or South from Bowen, the over twelvemonth long delay for contracted upgrades has been a continued thorn in travellers’ sides.

The National General Assembly will be held from June 13 to 16 in Canberra.

Nature lover Debra Burns says we need an Environment Levee to fund Myna Bird eradication numbers.

Photo credit: Rachael Smith

From Our Airport To Yours

For almost a year Whitsunday Coast Airport has been trialling its new fresh produce cargo program and due to its success, they have opened the doors to a dedicated facility which will receive and send produce to and from the Whitsundays.

From mud crabs to mangoes, and almost any type of live, perishable, or precious cargo, the airport can now manage the efficient and safe transfer of produce.

Whitsunday Regional Council Chief Operating Officer Aviation and Tourism, Craig Turner, explains that there are many advantages of the new offering.

Not only does this add a new revenue stream to the Council-owned facility, which directly benefits ratepayers, it also allows farmers and suppliers to command a higher yield by delivering fresher, better-quality produce.

“Some mango farmers have reported that up to 30 per cent of their freight can be damaged when travelling to markets by road,” said Craig.

“Using air freight can deliver produce to market quicker and more cost effectively than ever before.”

In addition, placing produce into the underbelly of the plane means that airlines are less likely to cancel flights as the double revenue stream makes the service twice as valuable.

This will in turn make air transport to and from the Whitsundays more reliable for both tourists and locals.

So far, Craig and his team have confirmed a freight service with Virgin, Bonza and Skytrans.

They are still waiting on confirmation from Qantas.

Registered Air Cargo Agents, Whitsunday Coast Airport staff have undergone training to create a system that is efficient and fully compliant with national standards.

The airport is one of only two in Australia to handle the management of air freight rather than outsourcing to an external contractor.

This means they can quality control every step in the process, from meeting the flights to storing the produce and sending it off again.

Most items are only sitting at the facility for a few hours before they are sent off again.

Craig says that he hopes to “bolt on” additional services as the demand builds and that he can anticipate it leading towards transport services from the depot to local restaurants and onto ferries which will transit to nearby island resorts.

Not only does air freight increase the freshness and quality of produce, it also reduces its travel time and overall carbon footprint.

Often produce travels from Cairns down to Brisbane before then being sent back up to the Whitsundays.

“This can mean an entire week of unnecessary travel time,” said Freight Officer Paul Knott.

While their focus is centred around live or perishable produce, the cargo depot can transport other items including pets and animals, unaccompanied baggage, valuable possessions and parcels.

Craig says they can also handle parcels from Amazon and other online purchases which can dramatically decrease waiting time for residents.

Since inception, the cargo service has transported 28 tonnes of live mud crab around the country.

But it also works the other way around.

“Just this morning we had a call from a crayfish company in Tasmania booking 25 kilos of lobster onto a flight,” said Craig.

“This is a great sign for us, and I think it reinforces that there is a high demand for the service.”

The new air freight facility was largely funded by the Federal Government with in-kind contribution from the Whitsunday Regional Council.

Fly From “The Vines To The Reef”

Whitsunday residents can now travel directly to the Hunter Valley thanks to new direct flights to Newcastle which commenced last Thursday.

Bonza Airlines will now travel twice weekly to the wine growing region, allowing locals to enjoy cultural weekends away and, more broadly, general tourists to experience both the vines and the reef within one holiday.

Whitsunday Regional Council mayor Julie Hall applauded Bonza for exploring new routes to make it easy for Aussie families in regional areas to reconnect.

“Connecting the amazing Newcastle and Hunter Valley wine region to the beautiful Whitsundays, heart of the Great Barrier Reef is a win for both communities,” she said.

“From the vines to the reef opens a huge catchment area that can now access budget direct flights to the wonderful Whitsundays.”

Bonza is Australia’s brand-new independently owned airline carrier and its head office operates from the Sunshine Coast.

The airline aims to reinstate affordable air

travel and each hour of travel will cost passengers on average $50.

Bonza travels between the Whitsundays and the Sunshine Coast and Toowoomba weekly.

Newcastle Airport Executive General Manager Aviation and Air Freight Business Development, Andrew Warrender, and Whitsunday Regional Council Chief Operating Officer Aviation and Tourism, Craig Turner.

Whitsunday Regional Council Chief Operating Officer Aviation and Tourism, Craig Turner and Freight Officer Paul Knott. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

Bowen Eyes Future Options For Crumbling Jetty

Bowen’s Chamber of Commerce is playing a guiding role in rallying the community for the redevelopment of the town’s beloved but crumbling jetty. Nearly 100 people gathered at Bowen’s Larrikin Hotel on the evening of March 27 to hear addresses by Bowen Chamber of Commerce Chairman Bruce Hedditch, chamber Deputy Chairman Tony Bale, and Regional Development Australia Greater Whitsundays CEO Robert Cocco. The chamber special meeting was called to kickstart a community discussion over the future of the jetty, whose future is in doubt with the impending relocation of three North Queensland Bulk Ports trawlers, which are based on one of the two arms of the facility. They are to be based in another location because of the present two-hour each way trip to and from the coal-loading facility at Abbot Point.

Under the terms of the land lease, if there is no further use and revenue-raising capability of the jetty, there was an obligation on Bowen to dismantle it, according to Bruce Hedditch.

“We need to develop a plan for when things change in the current use of the jetty,” he said.

Tony Bale spoke of the historical use of the 750 metre-long jetty, which was built from 1865-1867 and played an important role in the town’s early primary industries, as a coal port (until the 1970s) and as part of

a naval base.

At its peak, industry gathered around the jetty employed 600 people.

It featured extensive use of Tasmanian hardwood in major timber work, and new foundation works in the early decades of the 20th century used the new process of steel-reinforced concrete.

Up to four ships at a time could be handled by the facility, which was serviced by a now gone rail link. However, the condition of the jetty is now poor.

“It’s not going to fall down tomorrow; the old girl will still be here for a time yet,” Mr Bale said.

He said some of the major timber work had rotted or been damaged by past cyclonic activity and some of the concrete foundations on the two jetty pads were now suffering from concrete spalling, where the steel in the concrete was now rusting.

There had already been more than 50 ideas generated for the jetty’s future so far, Mr Bale said, in categories such as tourism; water activities; retail and hospitality; historical exhibits; environment centre; and accommodation in the jetty’s immediate foreground.

Bowen businessman Kevin Murphy is even proposing buying a mothballed ocean liner for its scrap value and floating it to Bowen to be sunk alongside the jet-

ty as a permanent hotel/real estate fixture, which Mr Murphy claimed would more than recoup the $40 million needed to finance the project.

Mr Bale used examples of other jetty projects such as Redcliffe pier, Glenelg jetty, Broome jetty, Busselton jetty, and even Galveston, Texas and Sellin Pier, Germany, as examples where communities had rallied together to save and repurpose these much-valued community assets.

“The optimum idea is to get a blend of pri-

vate and public investment,” he said, “but not too biased one way or the other.”

Rob Cocco said community backing was crucial to redevelopment hopes for the jetty. “They (the government) are looking for one thing: a community that is interested.” Remedial works had been undertaken on the jetty, including laying down plywood along the walkway and handrail repairs, and even these works were now starting to deteriorate.

Funding for youth services in the Whitsundays has been cut significantly this year and Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP is concerned about the impact it will have on local initiatives for young people.

Ms Camm believes that youth services need more, rather than less funding for vital programs such as YouthSpace and our dedicated PCYC.

“It is unacceptable that the Government has cut funding by almost 40 per cent at a time when young people need to be our priority,” she said.

“There are services across our region that desperately need more funding and are ready to deliver more support on the ground for our youth - they can’t do this if Queensland Labor continues to slash funding for young people in our region.”

Ms Camm said the Whitsunday electorate has a higher proportion of youths un-

der 18 and under 10 years of age than the state-wide average, with 23.68 per cent of the electorate comprised of under 18s compared with the state average of 22.37 per cent, and 12.45 per cent of the electorate comprised of children aged 10 and under compared with the state average of 11.99 per cent.

She believes that this demonstrates the Whitsunday region should be high priority.

“Today’s youth and the next generation of youth deserve access to critical services,” she said.

“The Whitsunday region is growing at a great rate. Our youth funding allocation should be trending upwards in line with that growth, not taking a 40 per cent dive downward.

“I have written to the Minister requesting full funding be restored in the upcoming budget.”

Presenting options to help the Bowen community find a new life for its historic jetty are (from left) Bowen Chamber of Commerce chairman Bruce Hedditch; chamber Deputy Chairman Tony Bale; and CEO of Regional Development Australia Greater Whitsundays Robert Cocco. Photo credit: Paul Gellatly

JUST WHO IS RUNNING THE WHITSUNDAY COUNCIL?

Don’t let Council incompetence and developer greed ruin our town!

What better ways could WRC be spending ratepayers’ money than fighting the community?

What better ways could WRC be spending ratepayers’ money than fighting the community?

These Councillors don’t live in Airlie Beach but voted to destroy the character of our town. They have failed to represent the community who voted them in.

These Councillors don’t live in Airlie Beach but voted to destroy the character of our town.

They have failed to represent the community who voted them in.

Cr Gary SimpsonCr John CollinsCr Michelle WrightCr Mike Brunker

Whitsunday Youth Parliament Member Announced

want?*

Youth representation in our region is in safe hands thanks to the recent announcement that Year 12 Proserpine State High School Captain, Sam Rogers, will be the next Queensland Youth Parliament Member for the Whitsundays. This exemplary student not only excels academically, but he is also a kind and passionate person who will put the needs of our region first as he heads down to the Brisbane Parliament later this month.

Sam said that it is early days, and he still has a lot to learn about the role, but he is excited for the adventure that lays ahead over the next six months.

“I’m really excited about going through the whole process and learning how parliament structure works,” he said.

“I’ve been assigned the rural and agriculture bill so that ties in nicely with our region and hopefully I can assist with some of the issues we face.”

During his tenure Sam has the opportunity to engage with other youth members from across the State to gain insights into how legislation is developed, and he will have the opportunity to engage with stakeholders from his portfolio of manufacturing, resources, agriculture, trade and investment.

Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP will be guiding Sam through the process, and she says she is thrilled to be part of his journey.

“Sam is an incredibly talented young man who has already proven his capability and leadership,” she said.

“I’m excited to see what Sam will bring to the Youth Parliament.

“This role is critical because youth represent a large proportion of our community and there is a significant amount of legislation that impacts young peoples’ lives every day.”

Sam has already achieved more than your average teenager – he recently returned from America where he presented his robotic arm electronic sorting system in front of a panel at the Association for the Advancement of AI Summit in Washing-

ton.

He has also just flown back from Sydney where he was the keynote speaker at the National AI Conference and spoke in front of industry leaders, politicians and entrepreneurs.

During his travels, Sam says he has met many amazing people and established connections that will open doors for him the future.

For now, however, he is excited about making friends with his fellow youth parliament members, more connections that he is sure will benefit everyone in the future.

“It will be great to meet a lot of like-minded people,” he said.

“I am looking forward to thinking about the world and how we can improve it.”

Bowen Photo Competition #bowencelebrates

Have you taken a great photo of beautiful Bowen or the iconic Big Mango?

As part of the Big Mango’s 21st birthday celebrations in May, Bowen Tourism and Business has organised a photo competition.

Save Our Foreshore –GoFundMe legal fighting code to donate or visit: gofundme.com/stop-airlie-high-rise

foreshores, the character fighting fund.

AirlieBeach,QLD4802

All you need to do is take a photo of the Big Mango or of somewhere else in Bowen and post it to social media with the hashtag #bowencelebrates.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said they had already received some excellent entries.

“We have some great prizes of accommodation and tours in Bowen and the greater Whitsunday region,” she said.

“We are looking for creative shots of our iconic tourist attraction and beautiful photos of other Bowen landmarks including our eight secluded beaches.

“The Big Mango was named the Top Tourist Attraction in the Whitsundays in 2022

and we are looking forward to showcasing it and all that Bowen has to offer as part of the celebrations in May.”

The photo competition is just one aspect of those celebrations.

Chair of Bowen Tourism and Business, Jenn Honnery said this was just one way the community could be involved in the celebrations.

“We know how proud the local community is of our Big Mango and we witness everyday how much our visitors love our beautiful town and beaches,” she said.

“The #bowencelebrates photo competition is all about celebrating our Big Mango and showing the world how amazing Bowen is.”

Terms and conditions of the photo competition are on the Tourism Bowen website. The competition closes on May 6 Contributed with thanks to Leanne Abernethy, Manager of Bowen Tourism.

Get to know the Hillery Group

NAME: Laila Ives JOB ROLE: People, Culture & Business Development Officer

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR WORK?

At Hillery Group I have had the opportunity to develop my skills and become more confident within myself and my job. It’s a place that nurtures and encourages growth and improvement and when they identify someone with potential and drive, the business will support you and there’s no end to what they are willing to do to see you achieve. Hillery Group has opened a lot of doors for me and allowed me to complete my Certificate IV in Business and I have now been nominated to attend the Emerging Leaders program to continue my development journey. This is a great place to work!

WrightCr Mike Brunker

Youth Parliament Member for Whitsunday, Sam Rogers, with Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP. Photo supplied

COUNCILLOR COLUMN with Councillor Michelle Wright

Hi all,

We’ve got so many exciting projects happening at the moment in Division 4.

I’d like to start by thanking everyone who attended the Mullers Lagoon Community workshop on Friday 24 March at the Bowen PCYC.

The session was a valuable conversation which enabled us to collect ideas for the Bowen Masterplan. It also allowed us to see how residents currently use the park, listen to concerns about the Mullers Lagoon area and to get your thoughts on how you would like to see it evolve in the future.

These community consultations are extremely important in enabling Council to consult with the community and take your visions onboard when we create plans for the future. For those who couldn’t make it, you can still have your say on the park’s future via our Online Engagement Portal, Your Say Whitsunday.

Another exciting update is that of the Richmond Road floodway where upgrades to the existing culvert structure are on track, with the road due to reopen to traffic in May.

The new structure has been modelled to cater for 1 in 100-year flows, which should greatly reduce the need to close the road in the future.

The road upgrades should be in their final stages after Easter with the asphalt being laid in late April before line marking can occur in May.

I would like to thank the State Government’s Transport Infrastructure Development Scheme which co-funded these works with Whitsunday Regional Council.

I’d also like to mention the proposed upgrades to the Cape Edgecombe walking trails which have been supported by the Federal Governments Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Grant Program.

We recently met with early-bird walkers at Horseshoe Bay to advertise the upcoming trail upgrades.

Everyone we spoke to was excited to learn about the proposed improvements.

The works are set for late 2023 and will rebuild unsafe and eroded areas along the track. The project will occur in stages as funding becomes available, with the initial focus areas being Horseshoe Bay, near the Rotary Lookout and Mother Beddock lookout.

These works will incur partial closures across small sections of the track, but the remainder of the track will remain open. Finally, this week Council and Collinsville residents have been working together to move on the flying fox population. Thank you again to everyone who has been involved with these projects and given their valuable time and opinion to help us create a better region for all.

Cheers, Michelle

Dear Editor

Firstly, thanks for posting the story about beach access for Airlie Beach residents. I am hopeful that with ongoing communications our council will take a broader view of this issue.

I feel for the dog-owners who have been ignored in their request to have early morning offleash access to Boathaven Beach approved by the Whitsunday Regional Council. As someone who regularly swims there in the early mornings I can attest that the small number of dogs that frequent the beach are not a problem to anyone.

There are rarely more than 2 or 3 people on the beach before 9 in the morning so it is very unlikely that any resident would be “harassed” at that time.

It seems the council’s approach is to prevent dogs from swimming with their owners. Cannonvale Beach is not suitable for dogs to swim (or humans for that matter) as it is muddy most of the time. Parking is difficult and congested as children are offloaded for early school and not all dog-owners have cars.

I relocated from Melbourne beach side suburbs last year where there are many more people and dogs. The council there took a progressive view on dog ownership and implemented beach access rules that allowed all ratepayers to enjoy the beach.

Before 10am the beach was free access. After 10am all dogs needed to be on a leash. Very simple rules to follow and administer which also reduced the cost of compliance for the council.

It is disappointing that the initial response from council is to increase compliance efforts rather than engage with ratepayers to discuss win win options.

At the end of the day, let’s hope common sense prevails.

Aivars Paeglis Ratepayer

Dear Rachael,

It was interesting to read in paper the two situations involving the Council, the first involving Councillor Brunker and the second the local people standing up to the Council over the current situation of the high rise development application in Airlie Beach.

The matter of the fine to Councillor Mike Brunker is something that should never have happened as he himself is well aware of the requirements of his conduct but the action in question is only a further indication of his total disregard for anything the Council does unless it suits him, and nothing has changed in this direction even if we go back as far as his position of Mayor of the Bowen Shire some year ago.

The residents are starting to become aware of his domineering personality on any events that appear before Council and this was clear when the results were counted at the last Mayoral election.

Every year, Whitsunday Regional Council offers multiple apprenticeships and traineeships across all sectors of Council.

Apprenticeships last four years and all students who successfully complete their training with us receive a full trade certification (trade certificate 3). Traineeships last from one to two years and allow students to achieve a minimum of certificate 3 in their discipline. Positions offered are based on funding Council receives from the Skilling Queenslanders for Work Initiative by the Queensland Government - this year we have 15 apprentices and trainees throughout the organisation! Many of our apprentices and trainees are able to secure an ongoing role

within Council upon completion. Applications open every year in around October, with the new recruits starting in early February.

WRC also offers work experience programs for school aged children and employment programs, as well as vacation employment for university students in their field of study.

To find out more, visit the work at council section on our website.

He has lost respect within the community and the writing is on the wall that his remaining position as Councillor may well be his last involvement within the WRC.

Then second was the stand organised by Save the Foreshore group objecting to the approval by the WRC. In reference to the High-Rise Development at the Port of Airlie. This group have performed brilliantly to protect the area from overdevelopment.

Ratepayers for this project [will pay] between $250,000 to $350,00 and this expenditure has been supported by Council even though the applicant is in receivership and the development does not comply with the Town Plan leaving the remaining question as why?

Alan Bryson

Alan’s full Letter to the Editor is available online at mackayandwhitsundaylife.com.

While we do not always have space to publish a regular Letters to the Editor column, we will endeavour to ensure readers have the opportunity for their voice to be heard and messages to be conveyed to the community through the newspaper. Please send your letters, concerns and compliments to rachael@mackayandwhitsundaylife.com, we will publish as many as we can.

Get Set For Work Gets Set For Second Intake

The first Get Set for Work information night ahead of the second intake for the intensive employment and training assistance program for 15to 19-year-olds was a major success for its facilitators as they record several direct enrolments.

The initiative, which commences this month and will be facilitated once again by Whitsunday PCYC, is aimed at youth who may no longer be enrolled in schooling and are struggling to find employment.

A successful iteration was facilitated in November of last year with four graduates. Whitsunday PCYC will again facilitate the skills program to continue assisting in the development of “disengaged teenagers struggling for employment” in the Whitsundays.

The inaugural information night showcased to parents, caregivers, and potential participants the benefits of the program through a PowerPoint presentation and industry representative Q&A.

Local industry representatives were Elise Forbes and Chantel Schroeder from Cruise Whitsundays, Lisa McAliece from the Commonwealth Bank’s Cannonvale Branch, Daniel Shipard of Wilmar Sugar, Proserpine, and John Alfonso from The Friendly Grocer in Jubilee Pocket.

The representatives were on hand to “con-

50 Years Of Service To The Girl Guides

Aveteran Girl Guide leader was congratulated for her 50 years of service to the community group at the Proserpine Guide Hut earlier this month.

A well-known local lady, Cheryl Raiteri, was recognised for her dedication to helping young women and her life-long service to the Girl Guides.

nect the dots” for how Get Set for Work helps participants into their respective industries according to PCYC Branch Manager and Police Sergeant Billy Li.

“We’re very grateful for the support of the industry representatives as well as our event sponsors - Airlie Beach Hotel, Friendly Grocer Jubilee Pocket, and local State Member for Whitsundays Amanda Camm MP,” Sergeant Li said.

The program’s next intake begins April 17 and is accepting participants from the Proserpine and Airlie Beach areas.

Get Set for Work is one of eight programs that make up the Queensland Government’s Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative.

For more information, contact Scott Lynch at scott.lynch@pcyc.org.au

Ms Raiteri started her Girl Guides journey as a Brownie and finished in the Rangers category.

Along the way, she has been a positive role model for many and inspired others to actively participate in helping the community.

Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP attended the special meeting and said Ms Raiteri was a terrific example of someone who had personally gained so much from giving so generously of her time and knowledge.

“Cheryl has served her community for half a century, giving many girls the wonderful experience of Guiding that she enjoyed as a young lady,” she said.

“She has attended many camps, helped with fundraising efforts, held many positions within the organisation and devel-

oped many friendships over her years of service.

“Congratulations Cheryl on reaching this milestone and for your contribution to your community.”

Others acknowledged for their service were Cheryl McBride, a Proserpine district unit leader, who received a 20 years service badge and wattle badge.

Also, Sarah Strohfeldt, a Proserpine district unit helper received a 5 years service badge and Angela Stevens, a Bowen district manager, received a badge and certificate.

Cheryl Raiteri (centre) is congratulated for 50 years of service to Girl Guides by Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP (far right). Photo supplied

Whitsunday PCYC’s second Get Set for Work initiative held its program information night last week to great success

OUR WHITSUNDAY

COMMUNITY UPDATE april 2023

FIRST BONZA NEWCASTLE FLIGHT LANDS AT WCA

NEWS IN BRIEF

My Community Directory & Diary

Did you know Council has an online directory and event diary for the Whitsunday Region?

The platform, hosted by My Community Directory, is available through Council’s website and enables community groups, organisations, not-forprofit groups and essential service providers to list their information and submit events for free.

Once registered, organisations will be able to manage their listings, ensuring they are accurate and up to date, provide links to their websites and social media platforms and list upcoming events.

Are you a Tradesperson in the Whitsunday Region?

Council has released the Tender for the new Prequalified Supplier Panel Arrangement for Trade Services via eTenderBox. This tender will be out for eight weeks with the closing date of Friday 26th May.

Prospective tenderers are requested to register on the eTenderBox website to download the relevant documentation, submit clarifications and upload submissions - https:// whitsunday.etenderbox.com.au

Non-mandatory Information Sessions will be held to assist suppliers with registering and answering any questions.

The sessions will be held as follows:

Collinsville Community Centre: 5:30pm, Tuesday 11th April 2023

Bowen PCYC: 5:30pm, Wednesday 12th April 2023

Proserpine Administration

Building: 5:30pm Thursday 13th April 2023

Refer to Council’s website for a demonstration video on registering and navigating eTenderBox - https://bit. ly/3ha1neH

Enquiries can be directed through the eTenderBox website or by contacting Council’s Contracts Team on 1300 972 753.

Phone 1300 WRC QLD

Email info@whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au

Web www.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au Your Say yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au

Last week Bonza launched its twice weekly service from Newcastle to the Whitsundays, the second of three new routes from Whitsunday Coast Airport.

Mayor Julie Hall applauded Bonza for exploring new routes to make it easy for Aussie families in regional areas to reconnect.

“Connecting the amazing Newcastle and Hunter Valley wine region to the beautiful Whitsundays, heart of the

mayor’s annual charity ball - tickets on sale soon!

The Whitsunday Regional Council 2023 Mayor’s Annual Charity Ball will be held on Saturday 22 July at Shute Harbour Marine Terminal!

Enjoy a wonderful night of glamour, music & dancing!

Event details are as follows: 6pm on Saturday 22 July at Shute Harbour Marine Terminal.

Delight in a 3 course dinner with wine and beer included. Live entertainment by the Baker Boys Band. Fireworks will light up the night and Shute Harbour.

A live auction will be held with all proceeds donated Mayor Julie Hall’s chosen charities, RACQ CQ Rescue and Whitsunday Housing Company Limited.

Theme: Winter Wonderland

Tickets will be on sale in the coming weeks and can be purchased through Local Tickets.

Keep an eye on the WRC Facebook page and website!

Great Barrier Reef, is a win for both communities,” she said.

“From the vines to the reef opens a huge catchment area that can now access budget direct flights to the wonderful Whitsundays.”

Bonza CEO Tim Jordan said “Forget the hassle of overseas travel with this direct route connecting Newcastle to Airlie Beach and the 74 islands that make up the Whitsundays,”

“If you’re after a touch of art and culture, fly direct to

Newcastle where there are more art galleries and artists per capita than anywhere else in the country.”

The first ever Bonza flight touched down in the Whitsundays last month from the Sunshine Coast and has so far proven successful with flights averaging 70% load factor in February and continued strong demand in March and leading into Easter.

Whitsunday Coast Airport continues to stamp itself as one of the fastest growing regional airports in Australia.

The addition of the three new Bonza routes into Whitsunday Coast Airport will see an additional 130,000 seats annually become available.

The third and final routewill launch on Friday 21 April between Whitsunday Coast Airport and Toowoomba Wellcamp Airport. To book flights, download the Bonza app today!

MULLER’S LAGOON PARK MASTERPLAN

We are developing a Masterplan for Mullers Lagoon Park in Bowen!

The Masterplan will be developed over several stages as grant funding becomes available in the next 5-10 years.

Mullers Lagoon Park is a district park central to Bowen and in proximity to residential areas, shops and main roads. The park contains a large lagoon, several picnic areas, a small playground, walking paths, unique gardens, a diverse habitat and bird watching hides.

We are starting with a blank canvas and are seeking to collaborate with the community to gather ideas that will inform a concept design.

Residents are encouraged to visit our online engagement portal, Your Say Whitsunday, to read the fact sheets which will give you an overview of site constraints and suitable recreational infrastructure in each precinct to help inform your feedback. You can also complete a survey and place your ideas on a map!

CAPE EDGECUMBE TRAIL UPGRADES

We are undertaking works to upgrade the Bowen Cape Edgecumbe Walking Trails in late 2023. Segments of the trails have been weathered and need upgrading to make the trail safer and more attractive for users. Initial focus areas are at the Horseshoe Bay end, near the Rotary Lookout (Stage 2, Stage 2A, Stage 2B) and Murray Bay Road to Rose Bay Lions Lookout (Stage 3). Works to remaining sections will occur in stages as funding becomes available.

The trail will be re-built within the existing footprint, except for small areas where partial re-alignments will enable improved safety, track width and mitigate erosion.

To have your say, read the fact sheets and complete the online survey, visit our online engagement portal, Your Say Whitsunday.

Growing Export Opportunities With Ry Collins from Bowen

Gumlu Growers Association

Export diversification is a critical aspect of modern agriculture, particularly for small-scale farmers who are often vulnerable to market fluctuations and price volatility.

However, exporting fresh produce like the commodities grown in the Whitsunday region poses unique challenges that must be addressed for farmers to benefit fully from global trade.

One of the main challenges of exporting fresh produce is maintaining quality and freshness during transportation.

Perishable crops, such as fruits and vegetables, require careful handling, storage, and transport to prevent spoilage and maintain their market value.

This requires investments in infrastructure such as refrigeration and cold storage facilities, as well as training and capacity-building for farmers and transporters.

Another challenge is meeting the stringent biosecurity and safety standards of importing countries.

These standards can vary widely, and complying with them can be costly and time-consuming, particularly for small farmers who may lack the resources and technical expertise to meet them.

Governments and organisations such as the Bowen Gumlu Growers Association (BGGA) can play a critical role in supporting farmers by providing technical assistance, training, and access to financing to help them comply with these standards.

Over the past month BGGA, along with a number of our local producers have been proactive in seeking new business in new and existing export markets with a recent delegation to New Zealand and comple-

Invasive Birds Cause Havoc

A local expert believes there are more than 3000 Indian Myna Birds nesting in the Whitsundays

Killing native birds, destroying nests, and overtaking large portions of scenic parkland, the Indian Myna Birds are aggressive and dominant. They pair for life and can often produce up to 26 chicks a year.

“People notice the birds around their property and after a few weeks or a couple of months they’ve had enough and contact me for a cage,” she explains.

“By then it’s too late and the birds have moved on. So, if you see them, and think you’d like to trap, please don’t wait.”

Under New Management

tion this week of our Japanese agricultural exchange student project to enhance trade relations with Japan.

New Zealand, although small in size, offers a range of benefits as a destination for produce from our region with gaps in their seasonal production aligning with our peak in production as well as relative ease in supply chain access and a trade culture supporting safe and ethical business practices.

Japan on the other hand offers immense opportunity due to the scale of the market there, high relative income levels, lack of land for domestic food production and cultural embeddedness of value-added fresh food products.

With the myriad of ongoing challenges occurring in domestic production, the pursuit of diversification is crucial for farmers to mitigate risk, and through accessing larger and new export markets, we can start to see a green sprig of opportunities not only for industry growth but empowering local farming businesses that work smarter not harder.

Debra Burns runs the Whitsunday Indian Myna Action Group which currently has over 400 members who are mostly concerned residents witnessing an influx in their area.

Working to educate, inform and eradicate, Ms Burns says that she has been contacted many times and has personally funded 13 traps which have kindly been built by the local Men’s Sheds.

Recently, Council provided $1000 to fund 13 additional traps.

There are now almost 30 traps circulating in the area, but Ms Burns says residents need to act quickly.

A farmer in Bowen borrowed one trap and captured 134 birds in six weeks, but they are very smart creatures and are known to evade trapping measures.

Ms Burns believes more funding is required and the only solution is to reinstate the Environment Levee.

Back in 2006, a levee of $10 was given to every household.

“Just because we don’t like paying to protect our wildlife doesn’t mean we don’t have a responsibility as a community to protect it,” she said.

“We need an environment levee.”

BGGA CEO Ry Collins with Countdown New Zealand Fresh Produce Manager Monish Gounder at their new Auckland distribution centre. Photo supplied

Continued from page 3.

A Quality Finish At An

Tired of waiting for Tradesman to call you back or turn up? Dissatisfied with previous work or the mess that was left behind? Time to call Superior House Painting Specialists/Superior Concrete Resurfacing.

Jono has lived and worked as a house painter in the Whitsundays for 13 years and knows the problems that homeowners face.

As a licensed Painter, Decorator and Waterproofer (Licence 1118887) he can help provide solutions to eradicate issues and create a long lasting finish that will add value to your property.

Mould, moisture, dampness, water leaks and damage, rust, slippery surfaces

Corrosion, movement and cracking, discolouration, inferior sealers, colour pigments, paints and more.

10 years - Jono has completed Training with Master Builders, achieving a Certificate 3 in Waterproofing. A Certificate 3 in Painting & Decorating with Master Painters. Advanced Training with Dulux in Acratex and Avista.

What is important?

1)Preparation. 2) Use the right paints and applications. 3) Problem solving.

Our motto:

Do the job once, do it right.

25 years - As a qualified Tradesman he has gained extensive experience and understands what works. Most of our customers are looking for quality that is affordable. We can deliver that.

We have partnered with two leading industry businesses, Dulux and Adcrete Industries. The applications are well

Proserpine Networking Events Launched

Business owners in Proserpine attended a lively networking afternoon on Friday and organisers were thrilled to see such a positive turnout for what they hope will become a monthly event.

Polley’s Realty hosted the occasion which was initiated to bring together business owners in the community.

“Sometimes being a business owner and getting out in the community can be hard,” said owner of Polley’s Realty, Nicole Polley.

“We wanted to bring businesses together where everyone can refer and network –the business community is so diverse, and we wanted to get together and know who’s who in the zoo!”

Vicki Leith, Relationship Manager from Westpac in Proserpine, spoke at the event.

“I’ve been working for Westpac for 21 years, so I know this local area, I know many of the clients and I am looking forward to spreading some knowledge,” said Vicki.

During the event, she spoke about hot topics such as how to avoid falling for security scams, predicting the rise and fall of interest rates and other useful tips and insights for business owners.

Over 20 people attended the casual networking afternoon which was held at Healthy Haven Café.

Prior to the event, Nicole and her team personally visited every business in Proserpine to invite everyone along.

“It’s got to be personal,” said Nicole. “We are really hoping this will become a monthly event and we are open to talking to other businesses who might like to host future events.”

Vicki Leith, Relationship Manager from Wespac Proserpine, Misty Bland, Nicole Polley and Abbey Coquillon. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

Affordable Price

suited to the Whitsundays environment. Most people know Dulux Acratex/Avista to be No 1. Their undercoats, colour pigments and sealers are the best. For concrete resurfacing, Adcrete offer a waterproof system that is affordable. Their primers and paints are flexible, nonslip and durable.

• Driveways - decorative, stencilled, aggregate, elevated

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Don’t DIE When You DIY This Easter

With plenty of handy people donning the tool belt and getting stuck into jobs around the house this Easter, the community is urged to be electrically safe to avoid turning DIY into DIE.

Over the last five years in the Mackay and Whitsunday area 181 serious electric shocks were reported to Queensland Ambulance.

Of these, 30 occurred last year, figures Ergon Area Manager Wayne Alderman said were extremely concerning. He urged handy homebodies to be conscious of electrical dangers when working around the house these holidays.

“School holidays and extra-long weekends like Easter always see a spike in the number of people tackling DIY jobs around the home,” Mr Alderman said.

“People will be cutting, drilling and digging around their properties and we’re highlighting the need to be aware that live electrical cables can be hidden behind every wall, floor and ceiling.

“So before working on an area of your

home, ensure there are no wires behind the surface by using a quality stud finder that has an electricity sensing capability or avoid drilling or cutting in the surface near power points or other electrical fittings.

“If you’re still unsure, you’re better off taking the safest route by getting a licensed electrical contractor in to check all the areas you’ll be working on. It’s a cheap way of ensuring you don’t injure yourself with an electric shock or worse still, electrocution.’

Mr Alderman also reminded Queenslanders that attempting to do your own electrical work is not only extremely dangerous it’s illegal and electrical work must only ever be carried out by a qualified electrician.

DIY electrical work is illegal in Queensland

Free Lung Health Checks For Former Miners

Retired and former Queensland mine and quarry workers in the Whitsundays Region can access free lung health checks on the Heart 5 Mobile Health Unit, 26-27 April in Bowen. Executive Director of Resources Safety and Health Queensland’s (RSHQ) Occupational Health division Dean Barr said the world-first mobile health unit the Heart 5 travels Queensland to provide lung health checks for mine and quarry workers who may be at risk of mine dust lung disease.

“If mine dust lung disease is detected early it can reduce the risk of disease progression, helping to maintain quality of life, and get workers access to support,” he explained.

“We’re proud to be in partnership with Heart of Australia who visit mining communities to offer lung health checks which are paid for by RSHQ.

“The free lung health checks for retired and former Queensland mine and quarry workers include chest X-ray and spirometry, and where required, other follow-up investigations such as high-resolution CT scans.”

The program is part of Queensland’s mine safety and health regulations to provide retired and former workers with a free lung check, every five years, for life.

Heart of Australia’s Head of Operations Ewan Wylie said the Queensland-made, 56-tonne, 34-wheel road train Heart 5 was

EARLY COACHING DAYS

While we might complain about the pitfalls of travel today –delayed or cancelled planes, rough potholed roads and constant highway stoppages – spare a thought for our forefathers and the challenges they faced while trying to navigate even the simplest of journeys.

People travelled by horse and sulky and bullock teams with huge loads lumbered up the streets. From the 1880s onwards, coaches ran between Proserpine and Bowen, transporting people and delivering mail.

In 1904, Tom and Joe Faust operated the mail coach between these two towns. About this time, Alexander Gordon Wilson and his son, William, opened stables and began a freight and mail coach service between Proserpine and Bowen, also carrying passengers.

The journey was often dangerous as sometimes aborigines would wait near creek crossings and throw spears at the coach as the driver slowed down. The horses would be whipped to gallop up the creek banks to avoid harm to passengers. Spears that lodged in the woodwork were kept as souvenirs.

In 1903, J I Gray recorded in his journal that he paid 1/- for a parcel to be delivered

and £1/5/- for the fare for his wife, Sarah, and son, George.

In 1908, Mrs Eliza Fuller recalled getting up very early and travelling from their farm in Strathdickie into Proserpine to catch the 6am coach then sitting in the open coach until it arrived in Bowen eleven hours later.

In the early days of coaches, Mrs Joe Faust (nee Amy Dray), remembered going to Bowen only if the dentist’s services were required. She recollected seeing the coach-and-four whizzing past on its way to Bowen, past the cemetery, up the old Bowen Road to the crossing (now Pluto Station), along a narrow bush track, through ti-tree scrub and across numerous gullies until it reached Bell’s Hotel at Bell’s Gully (also known as Billy Creek).

The next stop was the Homestead Hotel.

In 1885, the Deicke family established this hotel at Duck Creek, Mookarra, about ten miles (seventeen kms) south of Bowen near where the present cattle saleyards are at Miowera.

Passenger coaches left Bowen every Monday, Wednesday and Friday morning. Drivers of Thorne’s coach were Jack and Billy Thorne and Fred Watts.

Harold Baumgarten related his mother, Mrs Finlay’s memories of the first stop

launched in February 2022.

“With support from the Queensland Government and RSHQ, we built Heart 5 specifically to travel into regional and remote Queensland to provide mine and quarry workers with easy access to the best respiratory health services available,” he said.

“Workers can be assured they are in the best of hands – our team includes experienced respiratory specialists, radiologists and technicians who utilise highly sensitive on-board equipment to investigate possible abnormalities.”

Heart 5 is the fifth truck in Heart of Australia’s fleet of mobile services, which have been improving health outcomes for

Queensland’s rural and remote communities since 2014.

If you are a retired or former Queensland mine or quarry worker, contact the Mine Dust Health Support Service on 1300 445 715 to discuss your eligibility and how to arrange a free lung health check on Heart 5 in Bowen 26-27 April.

If you still work in the industry, speak to your workplace about mandatory lung health checks as part of your employment.

WHAT: Free lung health checks for miners

WHERE: Bowen

WHEN: 26-27 April

from Bowen – The Homestead Hotel –which she managed for the Deicke family in 1907. She served morning tea to passengers while her daughter, Ethel, 13, changed the horses and ran the old team into the paddock. The coach then travelled on to the Watts’ Hotel at Billy Creek for a midday meal and another change of horses.

Arriving at Crystalbrook about 3 pm, yet another horse team was replaced. Six horses were needed for each team and fresh horses were required often as they mostly travelled at a gallop. There was no help nor any refreshments at this stop. The driver ran them in himself at the Mail Paddock (Up River). After crossing the river, they finally arrived at their destina-

tion at 5pm.

Just imagine the discomfort of passengers (particularly the ladies in their mode of dress) and the drivers, riding over a rough dirt track, especially in summer. No air conditioning or deodorant in those days!

It is uncertain just when passenger coach travel ceased and how long after the railway service began, however, mail coaches were still operating in 1918 according to the “Proserpine Guardian” of that year. “Postal Information – From Bowen by coach. Tuesdays 6 pm – mail delivered 9 am. Wednesday – Saturdays 6pm – delivered 7 to 8 pm.”

Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum

The Heart 5 Truck

Radiographer, Mark Moxey, explains the CT scan procedure to a client

Heart 5’s Ewan Wylie takes retired gold miner, John Walker through a spirometry test

Creativity In The “Fight For The Foreshore”

Alocal activist group’s fight against an approved high-rise development in Airlie Beach took an artistic turn last week as the association organised an art exhibition and auction to raise funds for its court case.

Save our Foreshore Inc. (SOF) hosted the Art Exhibition at 3 Little Birds Espresso last Friday evening to gather financial support in its ongoing legal battle against the approved 47-metre, 12-story planned high rise adjacent to Port of Airlie.

Local artists donated their work for the auction in a show of support, works which included paintings, portrait vouchers, ceramic vases, sculptures, cast iron wall dec-

orations, and a picture framing voucher. All proceeds will go to upcoming legal costs when SOF takes the case to the Planning and Environment Court this month. With legal costs having the potential to blow out to $150,000, Suzette Peel from SOF said the association needs all the help it can get.

“We’re on the right track and events like this, financially but also emotionally, give us the support to keep going,” Ms Peel said.

“In a David and Goliath kind of battle like this, events where creativity and community come together are crucial in the fight.”

Save Our Foreshore member Suzette Peel speaking at the organisation’s recent art auction – an effort to fundraise for the groups growing legal costs in the battle against an approved high-rise for Airlie Beach

Images: Declan Durrant

Many auction items were sold across evening, some selling in excess of $250 dollars and each donated by local artists

GIG GUIDE

Thursday 6th April

• Paradiso: Aaron Saxon (6.30-9.30pm)

• The Pub: Acoustic Sessions, Mat Stokes (6.30-10pm)

• KC’s: Sam McCann (8pm-late)

• Grandview Hotel, Bowen: David Flower (from 8pm)

Friday 7th April

• The Pub: Gee’d Up (2-5.30pm)

• The Pub: Acoustic Sessions, Andy Mammers (7-10pm)

• Paradiso: David Mulderry (7-10pm)

• KC’s: Aaron Saxon (8pm-late)

• Hotel Metropole: Live Entertainment (8pm-late)

Saturday 8th April

• The Pub: Gee’d Up (2-5.30pm)

• The Pub: Acoustic Sessions, Andy Mammers (7-10pm)

• Paradiso: Ash Smith (7-10pm)

• Grandview Hotel, Bowen: David Flower (from 8pm)

• KC’s: Aaron Saxon (8pm-late)

• Hotel Metropole: Live Entertainment (8pm-late)

Sunday 9th April

• Paradiso: Aaron Saxon (1-4pm)

• The Pub: Gee’d Up (2-5.30pm)

• The Pub: Acoustic Sessions, Lloyd Saunders (7-10pm)

• KC’s: Retro Joe (8pm-late)

Monday 10th April

• KC’s: Gypsy Soul (8pm-late)

Tuesday 11th April

• KC’s: Gypsy Soul (8pm-late)

Wednesday 12th April

• KC’s: Jason Bull (8pm-late)

Thursday 13th April

• Paradiso: Aaron Saxon (6.30-9.30pm)

• The Pub: Acoustic Sessions, Joe Boshell (6.30-10pm)

• KC’s: Jason Bull (8pm-late)

• Grandview Hotel, Bowen: Tammy Moxan (from 8pm)

John Wick: Chapter 4

John Wick: Chapter 4 is bit like Christmas lunch: every year, you go round to your parent’s place, you sit down, and somehow, every succeeding course is better than the last.

The entrée, some sort of delectable prawntype thing, is exquisite (The first John Wick). She brings out the next course –astounding – and that’s John Wick Chapter 2, with its sweep of world-building. And you’re thinking: “Surely this can’t get better. I’m positively stuffed.” Somehow, it does get better. John Wick Chapter 3: Parabellum is absolutely drenched in this todie-for sauce. Mwah, magnifique. Then, mum (Who in this scenario is Chad Stahelski, former kickboxer and director of John Wick: Chapter 4 and all previous John Wick films) asks: “Desert; it’s only wafer thin?” And you’re feeling like Mr Creosote in Monty Python’s The Meaning of Life, as if you’re about to explode. There’s no possibility that a) you could fit it in; or b) it could be better than the preceding masterclasses in modern action cinema.

Well, bravo Stahelski. John Wick: Chapter 4 has continued the upping the ante trend

WHAT'S ON

6-12 John Wick Chpt 4 showing at the PEC Cinema

11

MOVIES: ALL SCREENINGS ARE IN 2D UNLESS SPECIFIED. EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC OF 7.1 SURROUND SOUND ON SELECTED MOVIES.

“MY FAIRY TROUBLEMAKER (G) 80mins Adventure/Comedy

set by each of the previous iterations of this franchise. A continuous raising of the bar sees Wick (Keanu Reeves) uncover a path to defeating ‘The High Table’ – the criminal organisation hunting him across the globe. But before he can earn his freedom, he must face off against a new enemy with powerful alliances and forces that turn old friends into foes. The additions of Bill Skarsgård and Donnie Yen - as garnishes to a now-seasoned franchise - are

absolute deserts in themselves.

COR07apr23MA0

John Wick: Chapter 4 is a remarkable series of set pieces from one of modern cinema’s best action directors. It’s arrestingly gorgeous in its cinematography and mind-bogglingly complex in its choreography.

John Wick: Chapter 4 begins screening at the Bowen Summergarden Cinema this month.

Want to be included in our weekly event guide? Email rachael@ mackayandwhitsundaylife.com to find out more.

12 Kinder Gym at Bowen PCYC

13-16 Dungeons & Dragons: Honour Amongst Thieves showing at the PEC Cinema

13-16

13 Fitter For Life Over 50’s at Bowen PCYC

14 Airlie Beach Movie Night: Shark Tale and Oddball from 6pm

15 Get Active Bowen: 10am, Bowen Foreshore

17

BOWEN SUMMERGARDEN CINEMAS

17 Kinder Gym at Bowen PCYC

18 Sailability Whitsundays from 9am at Whitsunday Sailing Club

18 Fitter For Life Over 50’s at Bowen PCYC

19 Kinder Gym at Bowen PCYC

20 Zonta meeting every 3rd Thursday 6-9pm at VMR

20 Fitter For Life Over 50’s at Bowen PCYC

24 Kennedy Masonic Lodge public meeting to recognise Anzacs

24 Speechie Talks Program, Cannonvale/ Proserpine Libraries 9.30am

Thurs 6th, Sat 8th, Sun 9th, Wed 12th Apr SPECIAL LOW PRICE $10 ALL AGES

A cheeky fairy named Violetta gets lost into the human world. To go back to the fairy world, she meets and teams up with a 12-year-old girl named Maxie and discovers her true destiny. Stars: Justin Daniels Anene, Alex Avenell (voice), Stephan Benson (voice)

“THE SUPER MARIO BROS. MOVIE” (PG) 100mins Comedy/Adventure

The story of The Super Mario Bros. on their journey through the Mushroom Kingdom. Stars: Chris Pratt(voice), Anya Taylor-Joy(voice), Charlie Day(voice)

“DUNGEONS & DRAGONS: HONOUR AMONG THIEVES (M) 135mins Action/Comedy

A charming thief and a band of unlikely adventurers embark on an epic quest to retrieve a lost relic, but things go dangerously awry when they run afoul of the wrong people. Stars: Chris Pine, Michelle Rodriguez, Regé-Jean Page

“SHAZAM! FURY OF GODS” (M) 100mins Action/Adventure

The film continues the story of teenage Billy Batson who, upon reciting the magic word “SHAZAM!” is transformed into his adult Super-hero alter ego, Shazam. Stars: Zachary Levi, Grace Caroline Currey, Helen Mirren

“65” (M) 93mins Action/Adventure

An astronaut crash lands on a mysterious planet only to discover he’s not alone. Stars: Adam Driver, Ariana Greenblatt, Chloe Coleman

“EMPIRE OF LIGHT” (MA) 115mins Drama/Romance

A drama about the power of human connection during turbulent times, set in an English coastal town in the early 1980’s Stars: Olivia Colman, Michael Ward, Colin Firth

Thurs 13th Apr -

John Wick: Chapter 4 is “arrestingly gorgeous” says our reviewer Declan Durrant

“Hands / Touchin’ hands / Reachin’ out / Touching me…”. Don’t say you didn’t start humming along; everyone knows the words.

Get ready to belt those legendary lyrics out alongside ‘Nearly Neil’, The Ultimate Neil Diamond Legacy show arriving at The Pub in two days of massive performances in mid-April.

Coming direct from Canada to the Airlie Beach Hotel, Bobby Bruce and The Solitary Band will play two shows on Saturday and Sunday, April 15 and 16, from 2pm to 5.30pm at local’s favourite local in a legacy show unlike any other.

The Vancouver-based band have been bearing the name and the heritage of Neil Diamond for almost two decades as The Ultimate Neil Diamond Legacy show, being led by superb singer Bobby Bruce.

His Happy Tunes have astonished and amazed packed houses across America, Canada, Europe, New Zealand, and Asia – and now he’s touring Down Under, stopping in at Airlie Beach for a double-header of shows.

“Passionate, exhilarating and vocally brilliant,” Bruce and his band are a five-star salute to the music of the Brooklyn-born singer and one of the best-selling musicians of all time.

The power and purity of Bobby’s voice have put him in a legacy league of his own, making his performance much more than a tribute – it’s a revival.

It’s as close to the authentic experience of sitting front row at a Diamond concert as you can get – particularly in the case of the strutting theatrics. Bruce glides through a powerful package of Diamond hits in his completion of the famed-singer’s repertoire: from Cracklin’ Rosie and Kentucky Woman to Cherry Cherry and everyone’s favourite, Sweet Caroline.

Bobby Bruce has continued to “stretch the meaning of tribute band”, bringing an unrivalled flair to his shows which have led him to enjoy the best numbers he’s ever seen in his ‘Down Under’ tours.

Australians have increasingly recognised the talent - Bobby’s mastery of music - and its little wonder he has been nominated two years running for the best international touring artist for the Australian ACE Awards.

Decked out in rhinestone dress trousers and white, beaded fringe shirt, Bruce meets Diamond’s raspy stridency in such favourites as Solitary Man and I Am I Said. His passion and energy connect him with the audience and his infectious warmth sets him in a league of his own – don’t miss

him when he arrives at the Airlie Beach Hotel for two free shows.

WHAT: Nearly Neil, The Ultimate Neil Diamond Legacy

WHEN: Saturday and Sunday, April 15 and April 16, from 2pm to 5.30pm

WHERE: The Airlie Beach Hotel

A Fresh Party Paradise, Rooftop At Paradiso

One of the shining jewels of Airlie Beach’s restaurant and cocktail scene has added rooftop functions to its venue’s repertoire of ocean views, delicious food, and daring beverages.

Paradiso Rooftop Bar & Restaurant’s upstairs event space has an upgraded new look thanks to a suite of renovations completed last Saturday, including a staff-painted wall-size mural of Elvis to lead the way.

The ocean-view venue is now home to a new-look ‘Paradiso Rooftop Function Space’ for milestone birthdays, weddings, corporate lunches and dinners, and Christmas parties in a chic, spa-

cious interior with its own private bar.

Marketing Manager at Paradiso

Kylie Warren said “Your New Party Venue” is open for its regular hours on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, but was also now available for private events.

“It is a fantastic location that is now even classier thanks to these recent renovations,” Ms Warren said.

“It’s becoming extremely popular now as a function space and coming into the cooler months, that’s only going to keep growing.”

Aside from a fresh coat of paint, the space has been revitalised

with the additions of circular mirrors backed with neon lights, thematic portraiture painted by a staff member and local artist, and greenery – all of which combines to create the venue’s lively, stylish atmosphere.

As well, The Function Space - in its elevated perch above Airlie Beach foreshore - catches the Whitsunday breeze directly off the Bay, especially when utilising its openable sliding doors and windows.

Ms Warren said those looking to book the fresh and trendy Rooftop venue can enquire through gm@paradisowhitsundays.com. au

With a fully stocked bar, those booking out The Rooftop get the five-star treatment they’re used to from the restaurant’s other dining areas

Paradiso Rooftop Bar & Restaurant’s Rooftop has more than a fresh lick of paint – the place has been

Elevated to capture the Whitsunday breeze, you can celebrate with incredible food, your own private bar whilst enjoying the chic, spacious interior Paradiso Roof Top Bar is the perfect place in Airlie Beach to celebrate a special Birthday, Wedding, Corporate lunch/dinner or a Christmas Party. We can arrange unique food & beverage packages to enjoy in our amazing space overlooking the stunning Airlie Main Beach. We cater for sole use parties up to 70 people, so get in touch to book your next special event: gm@paradisowhitsundays.com.au

287 SHUTE HARBOUR RD, AIRLIE BEACH

ROOF TOP

Nearly Neil The Ultimate Neil Diamond Legacy show is coming to the Airlie Beach Hotel on April 15 and 16

The world-class performance is led by a world class performer, Billy Bruce

Head to The Pub for the free show in just over a week’s time

Author Talks With Richard Evans

Enthusiastic readers, writers and book lovers have attended a series of author talks hosted by Richard Evans over the past few weeks and his entertaining sessions have proved a popular addition to our local cultural offering.

Cannonvale, Collinsville, Bowen and Proserpine State Libraries have all participated in the events which have seen a variety of community members enjoy stimulating stories about politics, plot lines and other insights into the world of publishing.

Richard Evans has written eight books in the political thriller genre, with much of the storyline inspired by his real-life experience as a Federal Member in the early 90s.

During his time in politics, Richard experienced issues such as sabotage, in-fighting and suspicious agenda.

He was also outspoken about issues such as Indigenous affairs, the Carbon Tax, euthanasia, and breast cancer.

His photo was famously printed on the front page of the New York Times for publicly proclaiming that he would get rid of all the cats in Australia following exponential growth in feral cat numbers.

During his talk at Cannonvale State Library, the audience was asked to participate in the event by sharing what they hoped to gain from the experience.

This allowed Richard to tailor his talk to suit the needs of the audience.

Richard and his wife Julia run a local publishing firm and are bringing their passion for the written word into a new project to reinvigorate the Whitsunday Writers Festival in 2024.

Last held in 2017, it is hoped that, with these two highly motivated individuals at the helm, the festival will become a popular mainstay on the annual events calendar and a hotbed of inspiration for writers, readers and thinkers both locally and across Australia.

Church Fundraising Continues

As Generous Locals Add $1500

The Proserpine community continued its support of a local church’s building fund last month by generously donating $1500 during a recent fundraising effort.

Proserpine Whitsunday Uniting’s Trivia Night on Friday, March 24, hosted by Proserpine Community Centre was a major success for the local institution.

The local congregation began fundraising to rebuild its St James Church on the corner of Herbert and Main Streets in Proserpine after the previous building was demolished after 2017’s Cyclone Debbie irrevocably damaged its roof.

The lively crowd were kept on their toes at the Uniting Church Building Fund Trivia night on Friday according Proserpine Whitsunday Uniting Church spokesperson Jane Betteridge.

“Questions like ’How many hearts does an octopus have?’ meant there was a great deal of laughter and fun had by all,” Ms Betteridge said.

“Thanks to the generosity of the bighearted businesses and talented people in town who donated many wonderful raffle prizes, and food.”

Ms Betteridge said The Proserpine Community Centre were exceptional hosts and that the Church could not thank them enough.

She said more Uniting Church fundraising projects are on the horizon including ‘Quiche n Treats’ on the last Friday of the month from March to July, starting March 31 at 3:30pm on the Church grounds.

Sausage Sizzles will also return on the last Saturday of the month, starting in April, at Porters Mitre 10 in Proserpine.

The sponsorship campaign “Brick by Brick” will also steam ahead in the coming weeks, allowing donators to sponsor bricks in the new Church and be a part of the new building forever.

David Fraser, Denise and Laurie Corrigan, Jo Fraser, Horace and Anne Lowbridge, and Jane Welbourne at the recent Proserpine Whitsunday Uniting’s Trivia Night

Author Richard Evans with some attendees

Cannonvale Marine Celebrate 50 Years

Over one hundred people attended a lively evening event at Cannonvale Marine on Saturday to congratulate owners Leanne and Darrell Hinschen on successfully operating the business for 30 of its 50 years.

On the night a 370 Outback Explorer with a 20-horsepower Honda engine, valued at around $13,000, was up for grabs.

The lucky winner was Bill Falconer who had been a customer for the past 20 years and had recently stepped into retirement.

“He was quite chuffed with his win,” said Leanne.

“And we were really happy with the whole events, thanks everyone for coming along!”

Owners of Cannonvale Marine, Leanne and Darrell Hinschen

Winner of the $13,000 tinny, local Bill Falconer with Darrel Hinschen

Raiders Run Rampant At Home

RUGBY UNION

Round Two of the Mackay Rugby Union competition got under way at the Whitsunday Sportspark last Saturday and saw the Proserpine Whitsunday Raiders take on southern neighbours the Kuttabul Camel Boks.

Last time the two teams met was last year’s semi-final.

Whitsunday Raiders took an early lead with a penalty goal from Jack Briskey in the fourth minute and then another penalty goal by Niall Clancy in the ninth minute.

Kuttabul has always had a big physical presence up front in the forwards and Saturday was no exemption. The Raiders tight five were not going to be intimidated by this physical presence and showed this at the breakdowns as well as the scrums. It took 23 minutes before the Raiders showed some fast feet and great ball control which saw young Niall Clancy go over for the first five-pointer.

Whitsunday Touch Football

TOUCH FOOTBALL

Just before the half time break Raiders number 8 Waikato Nepia-Katipa crossed the line for the Raiders second five-pointer.

This gave the home team a 16 point half time lead in the hot humid conditions.

During the second half the Kuttabul men showed a bit of stamina and managed to break the Raiders line for a seven-pointer but with two minutes to go the Raiders long term work horse and captain Cameron Meurant crossed for his first try for the year to give the home team a 21-7 win.

Contributed with thanks to Craig Spence

The recent Level 1 Referee Accreditation Course has boosted the number of WTA’s accredited referees.

It shows that the association’s pathway for developing Junior referees is successful.

Full credit to our young members for taking on this responsible role.

Accredited refs are now wearing the NTA endorsed shirts and certainly make an impression on the field.

There will be no Touch for the next two weeks of school holidays.

The Competition and Touch for Fun will return on April 17.

Contributed with thanks to Alita

ROUND SEVEN

Mixed A

RESULTS

Trusty (14) d Concrete Feet (4)

In the Crear (10) d Vipers (5)

Mixed B

Whitmonday Eagles (10) d The Guinea Fowls (6)

Ray White Mudcrabs (8) d Full Boar (0)

Slippery Salmons (6) d GET Touch (2)

Mixed C

Fumble This (6) d Flame Tree Flames(3)

Touch It (4) drew Raiders (4)

Whitsunday Warriors (8) d On Time (3)

Mixed C (Family)

Escapees (4) d Raiders Family (3)

Mainlanders (4) drew MissFits (4)

Fred Quod Blast H20

SCORE 19

Luke Hillery Hillery Group

SCORE 19

Harvey The Dog Whitsunday Mowers

SCORE 21

Steve Pilcher Pilcher’s Mitre 10

SCORE

Pete Cook Flat Out

SCORE 22 Storm Bulldogs Dolphins Panthers Broncos Titans Warriors Eels FENCIN

Michael Saunders NQ Electrical

SCORE 21

Brendan Better Built Sheds

SCORE 22 Storm Rabbitohs Dolphins Panthers Raiders Titans Warriors Tigers

Nate Ocean Rafting

SCORE 21

Accredited Referees

DeBrincat.

The newly qualified referees

Proserpine Whitsunday Raiders player Sam Crane on the run

Raiders forwards marauding the ball up field

Airlie Beach Darts

DARTS

There were six matches scheduled in this week’s Airlie Beach Darts Premier League on Sunday morning.

Jamie Maher took on Jayden Lloyd, Hawkeye Ricking was against Arthur McMinn, Andy Peel against Joe Wilson, Jayden Lloyd played Seumas Rose, Arthur McMinn had another match this time against Andy Peel, and finally Jamie Woods against Gary Robbie.

Jayden Lloyd got out to a fantastic start against Jamie Maher taking a 4/1 lead before Jamie rallied to win four straight legs to take a narrow 5/4 advantage.

Jayden won the next leg to tie the game up

at 5 all, before Jamie won the next two legs and the match in a close 7/5 encounter.

Arthur McMinn won his first match 7/2 over Hawkeye Rick, and then backed that up with an impressive 7/4 victory over Andy Peel. That was Andy’s second loss of the day suffering at the hands of Joe Wilson earlier by 7/1, Joe topping the league table going into the Easter break.

Jamie Woods went joint top with Joe after his fine 7/4 win over Gary Robbie, who continues to play well this season, hitting 4 x 140’s in that match against Jamie, indicating that some wins are only around the corner.

The round was closed out with yet another close encounter between Seumas

Cannons Shine At Queensland School Championships

SWIMMING

Six Cannonvale Cannons Swimming

Club members were selected to represent North Queensland at the Queensland Secondary Schools’ Swimming Championships.

Jy Parkinson, Jacob Bell, Remy Hedges, Holly Perrin, Anisa Helou, and Ehsan Helou swam extremely well and had a great time after their selection in the regional-level squad.

The highlight for the swimmers was being a member of the North Queensland relay teams. Jy Parkinson, Jacob Bell, and Holly Perrin have made the Queensland Team. Highlights include: Jy Parkinson, aged 18 years, with a very successful championships bringing home seven medals and all his swims were in the top 10 for Queensland.

Surprisingly, Jy’s top placings were not for Backstroke; instead, Jy won a gold medal for his 100-metre Freestyle and a silver medal for his 100-metre Butterfly.

Jacob Bell, 17, also had a fantastic meet bringing home three medals and achieving top 10 placings for eight out of his nine events. Jacob won a silver medal for his 1500-metre Freestyle and bronze medal for his 400-metre IM.

Ehsan Helou, Anisa Helou, Remy Hedges, and Holly Perrin thoroughly enjoyed the championships and the relays. Ehsan’s best swims include 50- and 100-metre

Breaststroke, swimming PBs and earning 11th place in Qld.

He also swam a super 50m Butterfly and was placed 15th in Qld.

Anisa swam PBs in her 50m Freestyle (16th in Qld) and 50-metre Butterfly (13th in Qld). Remy Hedges, aged 15 years was placed 14th in Qld for her 100-metre Butterfly and 200-metre Freestyle and was placed 10th for 200-metre Breaststroke and 11th for her 200-metre IM.

Holly Perrin, aged 16 years won a bronze for her 200-metre Backstroke with a seven secpnd PB. She was placed 7th for 100-metre Backstroke with a four second PB and 9th for 50-metre Backstroke.

Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen

Rose and Jayden Lloyd, Jayden’s second match of the day, with both the players taking a share of the spoils between them with the match finishing in a 6/6 draw.

The Premier League is sponsored by Mika Airlie, Whitsunday Tattooing Airlie Beach, and Master Butchers Whitsundays.

Contributed with thanks to Jamie Maher

PREMIER LEAGUE ROUND 5

1. J Wilson 8 pts

2. J Woods 8 pts

3. D Friend 7 pts

4. A McMinn 7 pts

5. J Maher 5 pts

6. S Rose 4 pts

7. J Lloyd 3 pts

8. K Reason 3 pts

9. A Peel 3 pts

10. G Robbie 2 pts

11. H Rick 0 pts

Proserpine Golf Report

terson in third place with 75 points. Lyn Muller won both the NTP’s.

Over 40 players teed up for the Thursday competition at Proserpine Golf Club with the sandy greens working well for Nathan Sothmann, who won division 1 with 40 points. This equates to a three under par round for Nathan, who was followed by Brad Fleet only one point behind on 39 points in Division 1, and Adam Maggs a further point behind on 38.

Barry Mortimer was in fine form to win Division Two with 40 points, and Laurie Dakin making a comeback with 39 points, and Paul Joice in third place with 38.

NTP winners: Adam Maggs, Michael Ward, and John Grosskreutz x 2.

24 players competed for the new Friday 9 Hole Met Run competition, Sam Deicke was the winner with 18 points, Nathan Sothmann second on 17 points on a count back from Roger Vandenberg on 17 points also.

NTP’s were won by Nathan Sothmann and Adam Maggs.

The RGH Monthly Medal saw 96 players tee up. Toni Clauss continuing her winning streak winning on a count back from Lyn Muller, both on 74 nett. Mandy Pat-

Scott Dwyer’s form was too good for the field in the men’s competition, shooting a very nice 67 nett to win overall and the C Grade Division. Ash Morley Hart, also on 67 nett was runner up in C Grade with Mark McDougal securing third place on 69 nett on a count back from Jim Sherrington.

Michael Ward was the winner of A Grade with 68 nett, closely followed by Conrad Werner and Jason Bourke on 69 and 70 nett respectively.

Brian Allen’s lesson paid off! He won the B Grade competition on 68 nett ahead of Allen Roberts and John Bissell, 69 and 71 nett.

NTP Winners: Cooper Cremor, Brendan Spann, Patrick Conen, Barry Mortimer. Sunday’s competition saw Gerald Lovell shoot a handicap altering 64 nett to win the Sunday Monthly Medal, ahead of Ben Smith and Brad Fleet both on 67 nett. Tiina Randmae on 69 nett was too good for the ladies outscoring Paula McQuat in 2nd place on 71 nett and Peta Thomas with 71 nett in third place.

Contributed with thanks to the Proserpine Golf Club Pro Shop Team

Whitsunday Social Golf

Whitsunday Social Golf’s April Monthly Medal was held last Sunday and the winners’ vouchers went to Men’s A Grade winner Jason Bourke with a nett 69 on a countback from Darren Reynolds, Best Gross, and Chris Bartlett.

Men’s B Grade winner was Gerald Lovell on nett 64 with runner-up Scott Vlismas, 69, and Best Gross to Ron Jamieson.

Ladies’ A Grade winner was Tiina Randmae on nett 69 from Pauline Redpath on 72, and Best Gross to Anna Winterbourn.

B Grade Ladies’ winner was Karen Rix on nett 75 with runner-up Elise Hodgson on 78 Best Gross went to Linda Wardroper.

Nearest the pin prizes were awarded to Geroge Meharry, Don Cameron, Gerald Lovell, Pauline Redpath, and Joanne Moynihan.

Longest Drives went Darren Reynolds, Brendon Meharry, Anna Winterbourn, and Karen Rix.

The Club extended thanks to sponsors Airlie Panel & Paint, Master Butchers Whitsunday, and The Reef Gateway Hotel. Next competition will be Sunday, April 16 for the Mark Nicol two-ball Ambrose. Contributed with thanks to Joanne Moynihan

Cannovale Cannon swimmers Anisa, Remy, Holly, Jy, Jacob, and Ehsan at the Queensland Secondary School Championships

Jy, Holly, and Jacob at School Champs

Jy Parkinson with his medals from Qld School Championships

Karen Rix, Darren Reynolds, Tiina Randmae, and Ron Jamieson at Whitsunday Social Golf’s April Monthly Medal

Arthur McMinn had a good day on Sunday at the Airlie Bowls Club in the Airlie Beach Darts Premier League with two victories

Airlie Beach Bowls

BOWLS

Tuesday afternoon at Airlie Beach Bowls Club was home to a big performance from winners Elaine Hadlow, Dawn Dowel, and John Brown, 27-13.

Wednesday Noel Crosbie and Alan Pershouse won easily with a dominant performance before Wednesday night Business House Bowls saw an amazing final between Hadlow Racing Team and the Tuk Tuks team, with Hadlow winning to put their name on the trophy.

Wednesday afternoon in Mackay saw Carol Crosbie and Lyn Graham runners up in the Northern Beaches pairs representing the club in a gallant display.

In the Ladies Masters titles at South Suburban Ladda Purdie and Joan McGrath won the coveted trophy, defeating the South Suburban champions by one shot.

Proserpine Bowls News

BOWLS

Saturday and Sunday saw the Men’s two bowl triples Club Championship begin and the final between Manny Isgro’s team against Harry Quod’s team ended 25-15.

Airlie Beach Bowls Club representatives Joan McGrath and

Suburban after an amazing victory in the Ladies Master Pairs

Sunday afternoon social bowls saw the team of Tony Whitehorn with Mario De Martini at lead and Mark Mawson second easily beat the rest of the field with a great team performance. Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

Bowen Golf News

Wednesday’s competition at Bowen Golf Club was a single stableford event sponsored by the Club with first up winner in the Ladies Margaret Need with 37 points.

Runner up was Grace Nott with 35 points, while the Men’s winner was Ben Jacobson, 41, and runner up Gordon Brackley, 39.

Saturday’s competition was the Ladies Monthly Medal with winner Robyn Slade, 70 nett, and runner up on a countback Kim Bennion 71 nett.

Pin Shots to Penny Stewart, Carol O’Connell, Janice Bates, and Robyn Slade - who also claimed a hole in one on #9.

Sunday’s competition was the Men’s Monthly Medal, with Winner Hayden Menzies, 62 nett, runner up Dylan Nott, 66 nett.

This weekend, Bowen Golf Club’s competitions is sponsored by XXXX and Saturday’s stableford event will be members only.

Easter Sunday the Club will host a two-person ambrose open to all for a 12:30pm shotgun start. Grab a partner and book on 1golf or call the club on 47851206.

Joker draw is on Thursday this week. Don’t forget to check the club’s Facebook page for this week’s dinner specials. Takeaways still available. Please call the club if you wish to book a table or place a takeaway order. Joker is worth $2300.

Contributed with thanks to Grace Nott

Summer’s heat and humidity has made games this last week at Proserpine Bowls Club an exercise in maintaining grip and focus.

On Wednesday the Club had 11 players for games of social bowls: Alen Sanderson, Heather Brown, and Mike Harrison defeated John Anderson, Heather Brown and Sandy Daffara 32-18; Jim Bownds, Betty Whitehorn, and Philip Brown defeated Pat Bownds, Mary Hedgelong and Bruce Uhe 27-15.

Saturday was all about competition games as the club races to try to get as much competition played before Easter and the imminent start of the Pennants Season.

Saturday morning in the Club Championship Singles Michael Kinnear defeated Philip Brown 28-10; Shane Kinnear defeated Todd Leys 25-6. In the “B” Singles Kendall Watts defeated Mike Harrison 259.

Saturday afternoon a game of Club Championship Fours was played. This was always going to be a battle royale when you look at the names on both sides of the scorecard.

Shane Kinnear, Todd Leys, Scott Hamilton, and Gavin Milne took the honours this time winning 23-14 against Warren Wilson, Martin Corr, Jonathan Bye, and Wayne Handley.

Sunday afternoon, eight players played Pairs as a 2-4-2 format, and on Rink 12,

Mike Harrison and Warren Wilson defeated Mary Hedgelong and Heather Brown 13-12 with thirteen ends played.

On Rink 13, John Anderson and Philip Brown defeated Bruce Uhe and Barry Zillmann 17 - 8.

Social Bowls will be available on Sunday afternoon over Easter, weather permitting. Names in by 1pm ready for a 1.30pm start. The Club attests that all draws have been put up on the windows of the bar to allow those wishing to organise to play their games at mutually agreed times, to know who their next opponent is.

Those changing times please speak with Barry Saroglia, The Club’s Games Director. Selectors will be working at the Club in coming days for possible Pennants teams combinations with the first two rounds being Saturday, April 15, and Sunday, April 16.

Division 1 plays Airlie Beach on Saturday at the Beach and Souths Suburban at Proserpine on Sunday.

Division 5 play Airlie Beach at Proserpine on Saturday and St Helens at St Helens on Sunday.

The Club extends congratulations to Wayne Handley and Grahame Kinnear who have been selected in the District Sides team to represent Mackay District at this year’s District Sides in Coolum in May.

Contributed with thanks to Heather Brown

On The Whitsunday Green

Last week’s 9-hole stableford at Whitsunday Green Golf Club was won by Ben Doer on a 21 point countback.

Second place went to Mitchell Ireland on 21 points, and third place went to Tyson Flavel on 20 points.

The Club’s Friday 9-hole stableford competition was a close one with first place going to young Corey Belke on a 19 countback, second place on 19 points to Andrew Gomez, and third place going to Cameron Mutch, 17 points.

Sundays 18-hole stableford was a very

warm turnout, taking the win with 40 points was Bob Nikolich, second place on 39 points countback was James Millar, and third place Mark Belke with a nice 39 points.

Good Friday the Club will be holding a four-ball-better-ball tee off at 10am and as per normal 9-hole stableford prawn run tee off anytime.

This easter Sunday will be 18-hole stableford tee off anytime.

The team at Whitsunday Green extended its well wishes to all this Easter.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Green Golf Club

Ladda Purdie at South

GOLF

Bowen Golf Club’s April monthly medal winner Robyn Slade Ms Slade after her Hole in one

GOLF

Treetop Views With A Pool

It’s the perfect home to relax and unwind with not a neighbour in sight. With privacy in abundance, the Majestic tall Leichhardt trees and sprawling tree ferns give this incredible home an unforgettable rainforest ambience. Set on over 1 acre (4,691m2) this delightful high-set home has endless views of the mountain range and the landscape below. Ample parking in the open or under the house for 3 cars plus 2 separate storage sheds to keep things in order.

You will love the modern flooring throughout and the pristine renovated kitchen for those that like to create. The refreshing open living area captures the views beautifully and enables great outdoor

entertaining with a verandah to 2 sides of the home. Inviting bedrooms all with queen size beds and stunning white bathrooms for a neutral feel, not to mention the stunning walk-in robe from the master.

Then when it’s time to unwind and cool off, the spectacular new concrete pool is certain to impress with lush greenery, an entertaining deck, and the perfect fire pit to sit around with friends and family to natter about the day gone by. This is not just a home but a lifestyle that allows easy access to multiple boat ramps and the convenience of schools and shopping centres in the Whitsundays.

a home advertised on a double page spread will be perceived as being worth 61% more than a quarter page ad

ACROss

1 Perfumed powder (6)

8 Hollow globule (6)

11 Soft gelatinous confectionery (11)

12 Cake decoration (5)

13 Jargon (5)

15 Style of handwriting (7)

17 Help (10)

19 French bakery (10)

21 Natural rubber (5)

22 Unpleasantly loud (9)

23 Shouting (9)

29 Gown (4)

31 Ebb (6)

32 Gallery (8)

33 Jelly-like substance (4)

37 Removes (8)

38 Religious art portrayal (7)

39 Libation (8)

40 Dowse (flames) (10)

41 Desiring revenge (10)

44 Stockiest (8)

46 Nassau’s nation in the Atlantic (7)

47 Root vegetable (8)

50 Schnoz (4)

52 The peak; the culmination (8)

53 Type of shoe (6)

54 Visible (4)

55 Art diary (9)

58 Relating to the sense of beauty (9)

60 Bothered (5)

61 Sportsperson (10)

63 Stuffed pasta (10)

64 Letters sent by plane (7)

65 Adventure walker (5)

66 Pin which holds two pieces of metal together (5)

2 Charged with a crime (7)

3 Nominee (9)

4 Armistice (5)

5 Hot in the atmospheric sense (7)

6 Display cupboard (7)

7 Slumber (5)

9 Female dancer in a tutu (9)

10

Cutting open (a boil) (7) 14 City in Tasmania (10) 16 Exhausting (8)

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.

Garden Maintenance

Did you know?

Whitpro’s first garden maintenance job was in November 2006. We now service over 200 regular customers!

Whitpro’s expert gardeners can provide seasonal garden maintenance schedules; from standard gardening services such as lawn mowing and maintenance, weeding, hedging and pruning; to large-scale garden rejuvenation including landscaping and irrigation.

6.30

World. 8.30 Walking Britain’s Lost Railways. 9.25 Philip: Prince, Husband, Father. 10.20 The Day The Rock Star Died: Elvis Presley.

10.50 Gomorrah. 11.45 Cheyenne & Lola. 12.45 Cheyenne & Lola. 2.00 Late Programs.

6.00 Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show. 11.30 News. 12.00 MOVIE: Hailey Dean Mysteries: Murder, With Love. (2016) 2.00 House Of Wellness. (PG) 3.00 The Chase.

9.30 Wuthering

3.00

7.30pm Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)

8.00 A Wild Year On Earth. (PG)

8.50 George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces.

9.40 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PG, R)

10.25 Escape From The City. (PG, R)

11.25 Ghosts. (PG, R)

11.55 Louis Theroux Interviews... (M, R)

5.30pm Escape To The Country. (R)

6.30 Bargain Hunt. (PG, R)

7.30 Doc Martin. (PG, R)

6.00pm Pawn Stars. (PG, R)

6.30 Pawn Stars. (PG, R)

7.30 Movie: Peter Rabbit. (2018) (PG, R) Domhnall Gleeson.

9.20 Movie: Miss Peregrine’s Home For Peculiar Children. (2016) (M, R) Eva Green. 11.55 Movie: Caddyshack

II. (1988) (M, R)

2.00 Last Car Garage. (PG, R)

5.30pm Dr Quinn, Medicine Woman. (PG,

6.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

7.30 Escape To The

Hunt. (PG, R)

7.30 Heartbeat. (PG, R)

8.45 Foyle’s War. (M, R)

10.55 Frankie Drake Mysteries. (M, R)

11.55 Cities Of The Underworld. (PG, R)

1.00 The Zoo. (R)

1.30 RSPCA Animal Rescue. (R)

7.00 Rugby Union. Super Rugby Pacific. Round 7. Melbourne Rebels v Blues.

Front

10.30 Movie: Snake Eyes.

(M, R)

6.00pm American Pickers. (PG)

7.00 Pawn Stars. (PG, R)

7.30 Storage Wars. (PG)

8.00 Storage Wars: New York. (PG)

8.30 Movie: Apocalypse Now. (1979) (MA15+, R) Martin Sheen, Marlon Brando, Robert Duvall.

11.45 Movie: Machete Kills. (2013) (MA15+, R)

2.00 American Pickers. (PG, R)

3.50pm Movie: The Barefoot Contessa. (1954) (PG, R)

6.30 Desert Vet: Turtle Rehab. (PG)

8.30 Movie: Ben-Hur. (2016) (M, R) Jack Huston, Toby Kebbell, Rodrigo Santoro.

10.55 Major Crimes. (M, R)

11.55 Inside The Midlands Prison.

1.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping.

5.30pm Dr Quinn, Medicine Woman. (PG, R)

6.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

7.30 Death In Paradise. (M, R)

8.40 The Madame Blanc Mysteries. (M)

9.40 Law & Order:

5.30pm JAG. (PG, R)

6.30 JAG. (PG, R)

7.30 NCIS. (M, R)

10.20 Movie: Rambo: Last Blood. (2019) (MA15+, R) Sylvester Stallone.

12.15 SEAL Team.

World Tour. Paris-Roubaix. Men’s race.

1.45 The Wrestlers. (MA15+, R)

6.00pm American Pickers. (PG)

7.00 Pawn Stars. (PG)

7.30 Highway Patrol. (PG, R)

8.30 Motorbike Cops. (PG, R)

9.30 Motorway Patrol. (PG, R)

10.30 Surveillance Oz.

R) 11.30 Crash Investigation Unit. (PG, R)

5.30pm Dr Quinn, Medicine Woman. (PG, R) 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 7.30 As Time Goes By. (R) 8.50 Midsomer Murders. (M, R)

10.50 Law & Order. (M, R)

11.50 Footy Classified. (M)

1.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

1.30 Take Two. (R)