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Editor’s Note
Hi Everyone,
For the past few days, I have had my seven-year-old son on ‘work experience’ with me.
To make him feel special, I ordered him a fully branded work shirt and it was a moment of great pride when he first put the shirt over his head and stood in front of the mirror smiling.
Over the next two days we took the long drive up to the Hinchinbrook region where we inducted a new staff member, visited local businesses, took photos, attended a Chamber of Commerce meeting and even distributed the newspaper!
It was an action-packed and very hot few days that culminated in a purple sky thunderstorm as we drive back down the coast on Tuesday afternoon.
I was impressed with how well my son behaved, especially with the extra-long days, and I think he now has a new respect for the big busy schedule we all have at the newspaper.
This is the last issue of the newspaper for 2024 and on behalf of the entire team I would like to say a big thank you to all our readers for picking up the paper and
connecting through the pages each week.
A special thank you also goes to our incredible advertisers, without all of you the community would not have a local printed paper so thank you all so much for choosing to spend your advertising dollars with us.
This has been an incredible year for our little publishing house.
Not only have we launched another new newspaper and hosted the Premier at our recent newspaper launch – we have also loved every minute of being the Best Free Newspaper in Queensland 2024.
Every paper we produced is packed with love, from the journos writing the stories to the sales team working closely with local businesses and the production team creating beautiful designs.
Each person in this team gives 100% all year and they deeply care about bringing the community an amazing paper each week, thanks for being a part of that.
Merry Christmas to you all and best wishes for a wonderful New Year ahead.
Rach
SANTA BARRY CLEANS UP CHRISTMAS
Haven’t you heard?
Christmas cheer has become more contagious than ever! Santa Barry has become a friendly face across the Whitsundays, sporting the fashionable gear of the jolly man himself and working tirelessly behind the scenes to keep the picturesque region pristine throughout the busting holiday season.
The Whitsunday Regional Council’s dedicated outdoor teams have been working their magic, keeping roads, drainage and waste systems, parks, gardens, and water services spick and span to ensure visitors and locals alike can indulge in all the region has to offer.
With the holidays well and truly in full swing, crews will be
working all the way through the Christmas and New Year period, maintaining footpaths, and ensuring all parks, barbeque areas, playgrounds and everything in between are in tip top shape!
Santa Barry has a very important mission of his own this Christmas! In operating the footpath sweeper with the same precision Santa Claus himself pilots his spectacular sleigh, Santa Barry has been dressed from top to toe in a full Santa suit as he runs his early morning rounds through both Proserpine and Airlie Beach’s main streets.
Make sure you send a wave Santa Barry’s way if you spot him on his route!
Whitpro’s
by
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Winners Shine Bright in Council’s Christmas Lights Contest!
In this year’s highly anticipated Christmas Lights Competition, organised by the Whitsunday Regional Council, the community was treated to a dazzling array of spectacular displays that truly captured the holiday spirit.
Among the standout entries was the brilliant light display on Walker Street in Collinsville, which was crowned the winner of the coveted ‘Best Street’ award. This extraordinary display featured a mesmerising interactive light show that captivated both children and adults alike, creating a festive atmosphere filled with joy and wonder. Families flocked to the street to experience the magic, with the synchronised lights and festive decorations sparking smiles and holiday cheer all around.
The true shining stars of this year’s Christmas Lights Competition, however, were undoubtedly Barry and Sandra Haran, whose spectacular display in Mahogany Place in Cannon Valley captured the hearts of everyone who passed by.
Their home in, a winter wonderland of twinkling lights, inflatable decorations, and festive charm, stood out as a true highlight of the competition.
From a towering, cheerful blow-up Santa to rows of sparkling fairy lights and candy cane accents, their display was magical.
The house left all visitors in awe, spreading holiday cheer to all who were lucky enough to experience it.
Barry and Sandra’s dedication to creating such a vibrant, joyful atmosphere made them well-deserving winners, and their home became a beacon of Christmas spirit in the community.
Barry shared that the journey to their stunning light display begins as early as November each year. With meticulous planning and an eye for detail, they work tirelessly to create the breathtaking result now on full display at their home. The Harans have become wellknown in the neighborhood for their commitment to spreading holiday joy, and Barry mentioned how he encourages his neighbors to join in the festive spirit.
Mayor Ry Collins presented Barry with his vouchers which were kindly provided by Sealink Whitsundays and Lake Proserpine Glamping and congratulated the couple on their fantastic efforts in bringing the Christmas spectacular to life.
decorated their homes and streets, bringing festive sparkle to the Whitsunday region.”
Whitsunday Regional Council took to Facebook to thank all those who took part in the competition:
“A huge thank you to everyone who has
Although the competition has officially ended, you can still enjoy the stunning light displays throughout the area. A con-
venient map highlighting all the display locations, can be easily accessed through the council’s website. Don’t miss the chance to experience these captivating installations before they’re gone: bit.ly/4giseRy
Mayor Ry Collins presenting winner of the Christmas Lights Competition Barry Haran with his prize.
Photo credit: Ruth Puddefoot
A Christmas Feed For Those In Need
What began as a simple conversation with two homeless men in a park sparked the creation of a regular Thursday lunch gathering at the Lagoon.
Barb Hill, an organiser with Drug Arm Mackay, approached the men and asked how she could assist them. Their response was straightforward, they needed food. This led Barb to develop the idea of providing regular meals, which has since expanded to weekly gatherings in both Airlie Beach and Bowen.
While the meet-ups are a great way for individuals to have food and socialise, they also offer a support network, where people can be connected with essential services.
Barb expressed that everyone is welcome: “Homelessness looks different to different people.
“It doesn’t just mean someone sleeping in
the garden, it can be in their cars, or other places.
“What we do is bring that connection and non-judgment.”
Alongside organising social gatherings, Barb also has nonperishable food items, sleeping bags, sleeping mats, clothes and personal hygiene products, that she brings along for anyone who may need it.
“We operate on donation for the outreach, It’s not funded at all.
“The Neighbourhood Centre also helps out much as they can.”
Alongside a fantastic Christmas spread, there was even a special appearance from Santa, who brought along a fruit platter for the event.
“It’s planting the seed of kindness and compassion, and in turn, helps them in the long term,” Barb explained.
New Council Flying Fox Policy
Athe Ordinary monthly meeting
adopted a new Flying Fox Policy and Management Plan and Collinsville Roost Management Plan to address the challenges posed by Flying Fox roosts in the region.
Mayor Ry Collins expressed his thoughts on the new policy:
“This new policy represents a significant step forward and ensures that we balance the needs of our community with our environmental responsibilities.”
Flying Foxes are a protected species under Queensland legislation, and wildlife management is primarily a responsibility of the state governments and landholders.
The new policy, however, includes three key amendments to clarify council’s role within the management of flying foxes.
Firstly, for roosts on council-controlled land, council will assess and undertake appropriate management actions based on
the cost, likelihood of success and impact on the community.
Secondly, for roosts on private land, council encourage landholders to take approved actions to manage the issue while offering coordination and potential funding support within their allocated budget. Lastly, for roosts outside of urban areas, these will be referred to the state government as council states that they do not have any jurisdiction in these cases.
So far, management of the flying fox issue has cost over $416,000 since 2021, which council states highlights the scale of this challenge.
Mayor Ry Collins, claims that this is a complex issue with no one size fits all solution however the adoption of the new council flying fox policy “marks a clear pathway forward – one that reflects a more strategic and responsive approach, aligning with both community expectations and state guidelines.”
Proserpine Mill Wraps Up 2024 Crushing Season
The Proserpine Mill has officially concluded its 2024 crushing season due to wet field conditions and an inadequate cane supply, according to Wilmar Sugar Proserpine Cane Supply Manager Peter Luke.
The mill ceased processing operations last Thursday, 12th of December, following widespread rain that significantly hindered harvesting efforts. A storm on Monday night compounded the situation, delivering 40mm to 120mm of rain across the region and further delaying any chance of field recovery.
Discussions with harvesting sector representatives and growers confirmed that cane supply was unlikely to improve enough to justify continued operations and after consulting grower representatives earlier this
week, the decision was made to officially shut down the mill for the season.
Despite the challenges, the Proserpine Mill managed to process approximately 1.67 million tonnes of cane, achieving 97 per cent of the total forecast crop for the year with Peter thanking growers and harvesting contractors for their dedication and hard work throughout the season.
“I’d like to thank all growers and harvesting contractors for their efforts throughout the 2024 season and extend our best wishes for a safe and relaxing Christmas with family and friends,” shared Pete. Looking ahead, the mill will now focus on preparing for the 2025 season, with hopes for better weather and harvesting conditions in the year ahead.
Santa delivering the fruit platter
The wonderful volunteers
Everyone enjoying their Christmas lunch
The delicious Christmas spread. Photo credit: Ruth Puddefoot
The Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassador Program is dedicated to ensuring that every passenger has a warm and welcoming experience in the Whitsundays. From offering helpful tips on local activities to assisting with the coordination of cruise ship markets, each ambassador plays a unique and vital role in creating a memorable visit for all guests.
Last Wednesday, the ambassadors gathered to celebrate Christmas and reflect on a successful year for tourism in the region.
Lyn Blanche Woodham, Leader of the Whitsunday Cruise Ship Ambassador Program, expressed her appreciation for the volunteers’ hard work and com-
mitment over the past year:
“I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all our Cruise Ambassadors for their dedication and time. I hope everyone enjoys a well-deserved break over Christmas.”
According to the 2023-24 economic impact report on cruising in Australia by Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) and the Australian Cruise Association (ACA), Airlie Beach has emerged as a key contributor to the state’s overall performance. The region saw an impressive 144,959 passenger days, generating direct expenditure of $57.39 million, underscoring its growing importance as a cruise destination.
Mr Claus Swaps His Sleigh For A Harley!
This week, the Proserpine Community Centre had the honor of welcoming a very special VIP guest all the way from the North Pole—none other than Santa Claus himself! But this wasn’t just any ordinary visit. Santa made a grand and unforgettable entrance, arriving in style on a stunning Harley Davidson motorcycle, much to the excitement and delight of the gathered crowd.
Accompanied by his acrobatically talented elf, who added a touch of flair and fun to the festivities, Santa spent the afternoon spreading joy and holiday cheer. He handed out an abundance of treats and goodies, and posed for countless family photos in front of a beautifully decorated Christmas tree.
But Santa’s visit wasn’t just about spreading festive cheer in Proserpine. Santa had an important mission to accomplish, one that spanned the entire Whitsundays. His task?
To make sure he visited every child in the region and spread some Christmas magic.
According to the Proserpine Community Centre, Mr. Claus’ mission was a resounding success!
With his mission complete, Santa Claus will now be heading back to the North Pole to finalize his preparations ahead of next Wednesday’s big day. The elves are no doubt busy wrapping up the final touches at the North Pole, as Santa gets ready for his annual global journey to deliver presents and holiday cheer to children all around the world.
The Cruise Ambassadors celebrating Christmas in Style
Santa on his Harley at the Proserpine Community Centre.
Merry Christmas From Tourism Whitsundays
As I wrap up my second month at Tourism Whitsundays, I’m really settling in and enjoying the chance to connect with our amazing Whitsundays community. It’s been a fantastic journey so far, and as we approach the end of the year, I wanted to share an update on tourism in our region.
This week, we received the National and International Visitor Survey update for the year ending September 2024, and the results are promising. Domestic tourism continues to grow, with visitor spend hitting $1.4 billion—up 12% from last year. We also saw a 2% increase in domestic visitors, reaching 742,000. The average visitor stayed longer too, with total nights rising 6% to 3.3 million, and average spend per person climbing by nearly 10% to $1,927.
On the international front, recovery is strong and in line with Queensland and Australia but still has a little way to go. Visitor numbers have hit 188,000, which is 85% of pre-pandemic levels and holiday visitor nights are up to 1.1 million, a recovery of 80%. Visitors from the UK and USA have seen significant growth, with numbers from the UK increasing by 30% and USA visitors increasing by 18%.
Out and About with Tourism Whitsundays
RContributed by Tim Booth, CEO, Tourism Whitsundays Tim Booth, CEO, Tourism Whitsundays.
to shine, and I’m excited to see what 2025 holds. Wishing everyone in The Whitsundays a Merry Christmas and a safe, relaxing holiday season!
ecently, Jade visited Azure Sea Resort to speak with managers Stuart and Nicole Morris. Located in Airlie Beach, this resort offers stunning 180-degree views over the Coral Sea towards Hayman Island. Azure Sea Resort features 30 exquisitely appointed, fully equipped apartments accessible via lift. Guests can relax in tropical gardens or enjoy a spectacular infinity-edge waterfall swimming pool that flows into a second pool. Conveniently, the resort is only an 8-minute walk from the beach and shopping areas.
Stuart and Nicole were honoured as the ‘Resident Managers of the Year’ for 2024 at the ARAMA Awards. This prestigious recognition reflects their outstanding management of a premier Australian holiday
destination. Since taking over the resort in December 2022, they completed a refurbishment of the 255,000-litre pools and spa in just six weeks—well ahead of the initially estimated three months.
While managing the renovations and coordinating with three Body Corporates, they also launched a successful marketing campaign that significantly improved investor returns. Since their arrival, the letting pool has increased by 25%. This award highlights the importance of delivering excellent service in property management and exemplifies how dedicated efforts can enhance the overall experience for both owners and guests at the resort.
Contributed by Jade Yvonne, Business Development Executive, Tourism Whitsun-
Having recently taken over the iconic Kevla Espresso Bar in Bowen, new owner Brad Williams is enthusiastic about the café’s future. With years of experience in hospitality, Brad has long dreamed of running his own business, a vision he has now brought to life after transitioning from the coal mines to the café industry.
Kevla Espresso Bar offers a delightful selection of coffees, mouthwatering paninis, and a variety of healthy options, all served in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Tucked away on Murroona Street, just behind the chiropractor’s office and nestled within the gym, this hidden gem is the perfect spot to relax and recharge.
Brad shared that the decision to take over Kevla Espresso Bar was driven by his passion for the hospitality sector and his desire to create a welcoming space for the community.
When asked what sets Kevla Espresso Bar apart from other local eateries, Brad highlighted the café’s exceptional coffee.
“One of our main selling points is our coffee,” he said. “We source our beans from Kai Coffee on the Sunshine Coast, which allows us to serve a smooth, rich cup every time.”
Along with the exceptional coffees, the outstanding service and the dedication of manager Abbie Paul truly elevate the entire experience at Kevla Espresso Bar:
“Abbie is a young local from Bowen, and she runs the place so well!” Brad added.
The business is deeply involved in the community, organizing events such as toy runs and lolly drops in collaboration with local firefighters and paramedics. In addition, they host suicide prevention initiatives and, just this week, invited families to a Christmas cookie and craft workshop.
the café’s menu to include convenient picnic and takeaway options, allowing customers to enjoy Kevla Espresso Bar’s delicious food and drinks wherever they go.
Looking ahead, Brad envisions taking Kevla Espresso Bar to new heights by diversifying its offerings and creating a dynamic space for both the local community and corporate clients.
One of his key goals is to position the Espresso Bar as a prime venue for corporate events, providing a relaxed yet professional atmosphere for meetings, workshops, and team-building sessions. Additionally, Brad is excited to expand
The cafe’s outdoor space is also something Brad is eager to maximize. With plans to host live music on Sundays. To make the space even more family-friendly, Brad is exploring the idea of adding an outdoor play area for children, ensuring that families can enjoy a leisurely meal while their little ones have fun in a safe and engaging environment.
If you are in Bowen head on over and say hi and enjoy the delicious offerings
Head over to Kelva Cafe to try one of their locally loved coffee
New owner of Kevla Cafe, Brad Williams, is looking forward to meeting you soon!
A hidden gem in Bowen
Meet The Reef Cool Team!
Reef Cool are excited to introduce our dedicated team who are here to support you with all your air conditioning and commercial refrigeration needs. As a locally operated business, they pride themselves on being an integral part of this community.
Will Cameron – Branch Manager
Will relocated to the area from country NSW, bringing with him a wealth of Industry experience. Will’s leadership and commitment to excellence make him the perfect fit to lead the team. Will has settled into life in the Whitsunday region, quickly becoming a familiar face around town.
Seth – Technician
Seth is a born and bred local who completed his apprenticeship with Reef Cool. A skilled Tradesman, he is passionate about building strong relationships within the community and is eager to help meet the needs of both residential and commercial clients.
Jack – Technician
Jack has spent the last few years working from Hamilton Island and has recently moved to the mainland and is also living locally. Jack is an exceptional Tradesman who delivers top-notch service with expertise and care for every job.
Owen – Apprentice
Owen is Reef Cool’s enthusiastic new apprentice who has recently left school and is ready to excel in his chosen career.
Chris and Renae – Business Owners
As proud regionally based business owners, Chris and Renae are deeply committed to supporting local communities.
For over 20 years they have provided exceptional service and high-quality solutions for their regional clients. Being a family-owned business means that they understand and value every customer and are always ready to go above and beyond to meet their needs.
Reef Cool continue to be your local Daikin Specialist Dealer. Whether it is a new installation, regular maintenance, or repairs, they have you covered with the reliability and efficiency Daikin is known for.
In addition to their air conditioning expertise, Reef Cool also offer commercial refrigeration, scheduled preventative maintenance services, and comprehensive after-hours breakdown services. This ensures that their clients have the support they need to keep their cooling assets running smoothly.
Thank you for supporting your local team at Reef Cool!
As we head into the Christmas-New Year holiday season, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on my first nine months serving as Mayor since being elected in April.
To date it has been a journey filled with many challenges, some achievements, and plenty of invaluable lessons.
Stepping into the position of Mayor has been both an honour and a great responsibility. It has been a year of listening, learning, and laying the foundation for an exciting future.
From day one, my focus has been on hearing the concerns of our community and the numerous key stakeholder groups to understand the issues that impact of region.
From upgrading our key infrastructure to enhancing community services and at-
tracting investment that will create more jobs for locals, every step forward has been possible because of your support and collaboration.
Our Whitsundays is more than just a place we live; it’s a vibrant and dynamic community with endless potential. As we look to the year ahead, there are exciting projects and initiatives on the horizon—opportunities that should create growth, prosperity, and greater connection for all.
As we celebrate this festive season, let us take the time to appreciate the spirit of togetherness that defines the Whitsundays. Let’s support our local businesses, embrace the beauty of our region, and share kindness with our neighbours.
From my family to yours, I wish you a joyful and safe Christmas filled with love, laughter, and gratitude. Here’s to a bright and prosperous 2025 ahead.
Whitsunday Regional Council Customer Service Centres and Libraries will close for the Christmas/New Year period at 4:45pm on Friday, 20 December, and will re-open at 8:15am on Monday, 6 January 2025.
For emergencies during this time, residents can contact our after-hours team on 1300 972 753.
Please note, our aquatic and waste facilities will also have adjusted operating hours. For full details, visit our website.
Wishing everyone a safe and joyful holiday season!
Local Chamber Helps Shape Council’s Corporate Plan
The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry (WCCI) is committed to supporting initiatives by the Whitsunday Regional Council that aim to strengthen our community, economy, and long-term liveability.
Recently, the Chamber invited its members to participate in the Council’s consultation process for the proposed Corporate Plan 2025-2030. This Plan will serve as the Council’s primary strategic document, guiding all future strategies, actions, and decisions for the region. The consultation sought feedback on key elements such as the proposed vision, mission, values, and focus areas related to the economy, community, environment, governance, and infrastructure.
The Chamber’s submission to the consultation consolidates the views and insights of its members, reflecting the business community’s perspective.
“Across Australia, communities are increasingly looking to local Councils for strong leadership, bold visions, and decisive actions. The Whitsundays is no different,” said Allan Milostic, President of the WCCI.
“The Chamber expects the Corporate Plan to incorporate community feedback, clearly outline priorities, set achievable timelines, and include transparent reporting on progress and accountability.”
Key Insights from the Chamber’s Sub-
mission:
• Community Connectivity: Uniting the region’s diverse districts—each with its own history, needs, and future possibilities—requires strong leadership and a clear, shared vision.
• Secure Funding and Deliver: Prioritise efforts to secure state and federal funding for critical infrastructure, including roads, major projects, health, education, and land-based tourism.
• Future-Proofing Infrastructure: A focus on long-term sustainability is needed to upgrade essential infrastructure such as roads, water, utilities, and waste management systems.
• Transparency in Decision-Making and Procurement: The Chamber calls for greater openness around Council decisions and procurement processes to ensure investment in regional businesses and local economic growth.
“Effective public consultation can play a key role in shaping the Council’s plans by reflecting the community’s priorities and encouraging innovative ideas. The Chamber looks forward to participating in more meaningful engagement processes that actively address community concerns and incorporate local ideas into Council decisions,” said Chamber President, Allan Milostic.
The Chamber’s submission to the Council’s consultation is available on their website.
The Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry Committee. L-R: Emily Harvey (Filby’s Motors), Secretary Megan Taylor (Kapow Interactive), President Allan Milostic (LiveLife Pharmacy Airlie Beach), Anthony Nobilia (Airlie Beach Executive Services), Asher Telford (Whitsunday Charter Boat Industry Association and SeaLink), Treasurer Fiona Erquiaga (Smooth Sailing Finance Consulting). Absent: Jannah Baker (Scallywag Fabrication)
The Cost of Misogyny
Misogyny doesn’t always involve men. Boom – drop the mike! Misogyny is defined as a dislike of, contempt for, or prejudice against women.
It involves anything from unsolicited comments, favouring men at the expense of women, aggressive or intimidating behaviour, gender pay gap, ignoring or speaking over women, stealing (or rejecting) ideas from women, and limiting opportunities based on gender.
However, misogyny has wider reaching ramifications than the effect on the female employee. When women are excluded from upper management roles - and in some cases, industries and entire workplaces - it has a knock-on effect on customers, clients and stakeholders, as well as investors, suppliers and vendors.
Male-dominated workplaces can appear less innovative and reluctant to, or incapable of, adapting. This can impact capacity to attract a greater range of good workers – especially Gen Z & Millennials.
Then you’re stuck with an aging workforce about to retire taking all your IP and operational knowledge with them!
None of us want to admit our workplace may have traces of misogyny but let’s be real - it’s Australia - the home of sarcasm, sexist colloquialisms, and ‘take a spoonful of cement and harden up!’ banter. We’re proud of ‘keeping it real’ and the fact that “everyone can take a joke”. So what can we do about it? Call it out, don’t validate comments by laughing, be clear on workplace boundaries, report, create safe spaces.
Create better workplaces, be better employers.
Judy Porter, Leadership and Workplace Culture Specialist at Shiift
Bowen High Places 3rd at State ATSIAP Finals
The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Aspirations Program (ATSIAP) is an initiative for high-achieving secondary Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students in Queensland state schools.
Bowen State High School’s Junior team consisting of Year 7 students Havana Power, Billie Grice, Sefton Power and Year 8 student Eli Prior travelled to Brisbane from the 25th to 28th November to take part in the state finals at the University of Queensland.
After two days of competition which included formal presentations, cultural knowledge trivia, improvisation drama activities and persuasive speaking they were successful in taking out 3rd place out of 21 schools.
As part of the program, the students were also required to propose a project to the school administration team. The students chose a sustainability project in the form of introducing a composting program in the school. The project would involve numerous staff and students to compost food waste from the tuckshop, Hospitality classes and Agriculture classes.
The program builds upon students’ critical and creative thinking skills by providing opportunities to investigate solutions for real-world challenges.
ATSIAP aims to raise students’ expectations of themselves as learners and enhance post-school aspirations to include tertiary pathways.
Principal Mr Robert Harris was very proud of the students. “Havana, Billie, Sefton and Eli have worked really hard together and they should be very proud of how they have represented themselves and our school community.
ATSIAP is a fun, yet challenging, program which allows student to enhance critical and creative thinking skills. It also encourages student to focus on their school attendance, academic engagement and to foster their tertiary aspirations.
A special thank you to Ms Pauline Neill, Mrs Raylene Van Veen and Mr Greg Prior for supporting the team throughout the challenge. I look forward to our student representing our school in the 2025 ASTIAP challenge.
BOWEN STATE HIGH SCHOOL
On behalf of Bowen State High School, I would like to thank the Bowen community for your generous support which has been provided to our students and staff. I would like to give a special shout-out to our Year 7 students for successfully completing their first year of secondary education, and I extend my best wishes to the Year 12 graduating class of 2024 as they embark on their future endeavours. I eagerly anticipate the positive challenges and opportunities that await our school in 2025 and I look forward to welcoming all students back to school on Tuesday, 28th January, 2025.
Bowen State High School Highlights For December:
• 100% QCE/QCIA attainment for our Year 12 students. 9 years in a row!
• Junior ATSIAP team place 3rd out of 21 schools at the state finals.
• Year 7 and 8 students graduate from Reading and Numeracy program.
• Sixteen Year 6 students awarded a 2025 Scholarship.
• Bowen High becomes a B Kinder school to spread kindness in 2025.
• Year 10-12 students recognised at the Annual Senior Industry Awards.
• 85% of Year 7-9 students achieve an A-C across all core subjects in Semester 2.
Junior ATSIAP team Eli, Sefton, Havana and Billie, with staff Greg Prior and Raylene Van Veen who placed 3rd at the state finals.
Students proud of their achievements
A great month for Bowen State High School
Calendars Features Beauty Of Bowen
The team at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre have been very busy this week with the Queensland school holidays now underway.
Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said there was a significant increase in visitor numbers as soon as the school holidays started.
“We had been averaging about 115 visitors per day for December, but we had 155 people come to the centre on Monday alone and that was at the start of the holidays,” shared Leanne.
“The rest of the week has continued to be busy - most of the visitors have been from Queensland and we have also noticed a lot of locals calling in to grab a copy of the 2025 Bowen calendar.”
The 13-month calendars are on sale at the
Information Centre for just $20 each and feature the talented photography of both local photographer Jack Collins and renowned photographer Mark Fitz.
“This is the third year that we have produced the calendar, and it is always very popular,” added Leanne.
“The calendar for 2025 features beaches, the lighthouse, mango trees and other landmarks.”
The centre is open seven days a week –9am to 5pm Monday to Friday and then 10am-3pm on the weekends and will be closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day
Contributed with thanks to Leanne Abernethy.
TIL 24TH OF DECEMBER ON SELECTED VICTA AND STIHL
Bowen Visitor
Bowen Tourism and Business team members Cindy Tonks and Glenn Womal with the 2025 Bowen calendar
The Countdown Begins
Eris TestFlight1, the highly anticipated inaugural launch of Australia’s first sovereign-made rocket, has officially received its launch permit approval and is now slated for liftoff from Gilmour Spaceport in Bowen.
While the precise launch date is still to be confirmed, the mission is expected to take place in mid-January, marking a historic milestone for the Australian space industry and Bowen.
This launch will not only be the first orbital attempt of an Australian-made rocket, but it also represents the first orbital launch from Australian soil in over half a century.
Developed and manufactured by Gilmour Space, Eris is the country’s first rocket designed and built to carry satellites into space, a significant step in establishing Australia’s capabilities in the global space sector.
Eris TestFlight1 will be the maiden flight of the Eris Block 1 rocket, which utilises Gilmour Space’s proprietary hybrid rocket technology, a groundbreaking innovation that combines the simplicity of liquid propellant with the power of solid fuel.
For the local Whitsunday community, the Eris TestFlight1 launch is an exhila-
rating development that is sure to put Bowen firmly on the map as a key destination in space exploration history.
Bowen’s spaceport is Australia’s first licensed commercial orbital launch facility and offers access to Low Earth Orbits (LEO) with inclinations ranging from 20 to 65 degrees. This unique capability makes it an ideal site for launching various satellite missions.
The Gilmour Spaceport, located within the Abbot Point State Development Area, is a private facility that operates under the guidance of Gilmour Space.
The spaceport has received the support and blessing of the Juru traditional owners of the Bowen region, who have warmly welcomed the opportunity to ‘bridge Country to Sky.’
As Australia looks to cement its place in the global space economy, Bowen’s role in this mission stands as a symbol of innovation, collaboration, and a new era for the nation’s space exploration efforts.
Expanding to Proserpine will ensure accessible healthcare can be provided to all families and their beloved animals, meeting the growing needs of families in the wider Whitsunday region. Offering a comprehensive range of veterinary services including: •routine wellness exams •vaccinations
treatments.
With projects like Eris TestFlight1, Bowen is not only contributing to cutting-edge aerospace technology but also positioning itself at the forefront of a rapidly evolving industry.
Eris TestFlight1 gets ready to launch
Head to Coral Sea Resort on Sunday, January 19th, for an unforgettable afternoon of smooth jazz, Latin rhythms, and timeless classics, as the extraordinary Domenico takes the stage at the Coral Sea Resort’s Pavilion.
A true musical prodigy, Domenico’s journey began at the age of 4 in 1971, when he first picked up the piano accordion. His exceptional skill quickly earned him recognition as a specialist of the instrument. In 1986, he began performing with a three-piece cabaret band, captivating audiences across Queensland at private functions, clubs, and hotels. After a 15-year residency, Domenico formed Domenico & The Latin Mafia, further cementing his reputation as one of the region’s most dynamic performers.
With over 25 years of professional entertainment experience, Domenico’s unique technique and vast musical repertoire set him apart. He is widely regarded as one of Brisbane’s most versatile multicultural cabaret entertainers, seamlessly blending Jazz, Latin, Ballroom, Rock, Pop, and more. His diverse talents ensure that there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Domenico’s extensive career has seen him perform at festivals and events across the east coast of Australia. Notably, in 2012, he joined the
celebrated 10-piece Celtic band Murphy’s Pigs, where his remarkable skills on both vocals and piano accordion brought a fresh new dimension to the group.
From the sweet jazz standards of the ‘40s and ‘50s to passionate Italian and Spanish classics, Domenico’s repertoire spans a wide range of genres and styles. His performance will transport you from the vibrant rhythms of South America to the timeless sounds of classical music, offering a truly global musical experience.
The Coral Sea Resort invites the community to immerse themselves in this afternoon of musical excellence, with Domenico’s captivating performance from 2pm to 5pm. Enjoy drink specials throughout the event, and best of all, entry is free!
Get ready for an afternoon of sun, sea and smooth tunes at Coral Sea Resorts Pavilion.
For all inquiries and for more information, contact the Resort on 07 4964 1300.
WHAT: Live Music with Domenico
WHEN: Sunday 19th January 2025 from 2pm
WHERE: Coral Sea Pavilion
MORE INFORMATION: 07 4964 1300
New Year’s Eve at Coral
Sea Resort
Start your New Year’s Eve on The Jetty! With only 50 tickets available, this intimate event promises an unforgettable evening by the water.
Date & Time: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Price: $50 per person
New Year’s Eve at Coral Sea Resort
What's Included: A glass of sparkling wine on arrival and gourmet canapés throughout the night.
Entertainment: Live DJ to set the perfec vibe
Additional Info: Bar purchases available at the Jetty Bar
Tickets available now at Whitsunday Tickets. Don’t miss out!
Tickets: https://www.whitsundaytickets.com.au/
Adults $50 (Entry and Canapes)
Ring in the New Year in tropical elegance at Coral Sea Resort with two dining options to choose from. Enjoy a 4-course set menu and kick off your celebration with a complimentary glass of champagne while taking in breathtaking ocean views. Seats are limited, so book now to secure NYE DINNER TIMES 5:00 PM OR 7:15 PM
Bookings: 4964 1310 or https://www.opentable.com.au/r/coral-seapavilion-airlie-beach
$130 & Children (4 - 12) $65
Gearing Up For A Busy Season With Whitsunday Mowers
Approaching their busiest time of the year, Whitsunday Mowers are more than ready to provide the region with a celebrated selection of high-quality equipment to cater to any, and every customer’s needs.
Wayne Drabsch of Whitsunday Mowers has been busily preparing a range of new products and lines over the past few weeks including Walker and Altoz mowers, whilst maintaining the business’ reputation as the largest Stihl dealership in the area.
With in-store demonstrations having been held periodically over the past six weeks, Wayne, and the rest of his team at Whitsunday Mowers are more than equipped with the knowledge and experience necessary to navigate the ins and out of each of their new machines.
“We’ve had the Walkers for about six weeks now,” shared Wayne.
“They’re a ride on mower mainly designed around catching grass and they’re a very compact machine, and they’re the ultimate for clean cutting - we’ve run a few demos with them to get our heads around the machine itself - that’s a big thing, and they’ve proven to be very popular with people
looking at rideons,” Wayne added.
In order to ensure each customer’s needs are fulfilled in a timely manner, Whitsunday Mowers have extended their workshop hours throughout this busy period to run the rush ahead of the Christmas and New Year break, right up until Christmas Eve. Looking ahead, Wayne and his team have exciting plans for the new year, with Friday marking a wonderful business milestone.
“We plan to keep growing the way we have been since we bought the business, and
on the 20th of December we would have had the business for six years, and in that time, we have more than doubled the business from what it was when we bought it,” Wayne shared.
With their doors closed between the 24th of December until Monday the 6th of January, Whitsunday Mowers wishes their valued customers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Roger a beautiful Huntaway cross Shepherd, is looking to find the rest of his pack.
Roger is heartworm positive but his treatment is fully covered by Bowen and Collinsville Rescue.
Due to this, he needs a calm space to recover and a loving family to call his own.
Although he’s smaller than a Kelpie,
FAST FACTS:
Rehoming fee: $400
Age: 2 years
he’s just as smart and clever as one, he is also extremely active so needs to go to a home where he can get lots of stimulation. Therefore, he would be perfect for a hobby farm or an exercise-loving family.
Roger loves relaxing with his people and is good with other dogs if introduced slowly!
Sex: Male
Breed: Huntaway X Shepherd
Other dogs: Yes but slow introduction
We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to our valuable clients for their continued support and trust throughout 2024. It’s been a privilege to care for your pets and share in so many special moments with you this year.
Faye and all the team at Proserpine Vet Surgery would like to take this opportunity to wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a safe, prosperous, and joyful 2025.
Photo credit: Ruth Puddefoot
We Wish All Of Our Valued Readers, Advertisers & Supporters A Wonderful Festive Season & A Fantastic New Year! Thank You For Reading Your Local Paper & A Special Thank You To All Our Advertisers For Continuing To Bring The Community A Free Voice In Print
Friday 20 December
• The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: ABBA (2pm–5:30pm)
• The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers(7pm–10pm)
• Grand View Hotel: Rebelquinn (4pm–8pm)
Saturday 21 December
• The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: ABBA (2pm–5:30pm)
• The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm–10pm)
• Grand View Hotel: Dj Night (4pm–8pm)
• Coral Sea Pavilion: Live Music (from 1pm) Coral Sea Pavilion: Chill DJ Session (2pm–6pm)
Sunday 22 December
• The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: ABBA (2pm–5:30pm)
• The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Sam McCann (6:30pm–9:30pm)
• The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm–9.30pm)
NYE The Whitsunday Way!
There’s truly no better way to conclude the year that was, and warmly welcome the year that will be than with your dear friends and family by your side, and the Whitsunday Regional Council has planned the perfect extravaganza for you to celebrate the New Year in style!
An annual festive display highlighting the magic of the region and its abundance of community spirit, the infamous New Year’s Eve Fireworks will be held across numerous locations within the shire for all members of the area to enjoy.
In order to cater to the littlest members of the family, an early display will be held at 8:30pm at the Airlie Beach Foreshore, Collinsville Showgrounds and the Bow-
en Foreshore. Once the clock strikes 12, both the Airlie Beach Foreshore and the Bowen Foreshore will host another wonderful display to light up the night from midnight to perfectly celebrate the conclusion of 2024 and the beginning of 2025!
The Whitsunday Regional Council wishes to advise all pet owners to keep a watchful eye on their four-legged family members, asking to ensure they’re securely inside as fireworks can be destressing for animals.
WHAT: New Year’s Eve Fireworks Displays
When: Tuesday 31st December at 8:30pm and 12.
WHERE: Airlie Beach Foreshore, Bowen Foreshore, and Collinsville Showgrounds
At the driveway’s end the red and yellow lidded wheelie bins stand to attention like portly plastic palace guards, awaiting the onslaught of wrapping paper and boxes and a now wriggling bag of prawn heads.
A wisp of the nights cooler air breaks like a hazy wave down the saddle of the range.
The cackle of the kookaburra and the raucous squawks of the cockatoos are cut short by the coughing and sneezing of mowers and trimmers and edgers and blowers, coaxed into life with some swearing.
The heady fumes of unleaded waft over the fence from next door and now breath deep, because here comes the smell of freshly cut grass.
Pools are scooped, a keelback is freed from a skimmer box and as the first drops of rain patter on the colourbond those frogs in the drain pipes croak.
On the balconies and patios, barbe-
ques and fridges are given a spray and wipe. The gas bottles contents are guessed and that eski from the boat is pressed into service again.
Dogs bark from behind the gates. Dozens of blow-up Santas and teams of his blow-up reindeer lay deflated in the shade of golden canes and poincianas, like paralytic party goers sleeping off the big night before.
Icicles hang from gutters that will never see a flake of snow.
The Christmas tree is dug out from behind a bike in the shed and fresh tinsel is required.
It won’t be long now, we’ll gather at the tables pushed together and sit on the mismatched chairs.
There’ll be bon bons and jokes and paper hats, ham and seafood and afternoon naps.
There’ll be family and friends and neighbours and mates and the food just keeps coming on the big white plates ...
An energetic, entertaining, and unmissable performance will be staged at the Airlie Beach Hotel across three fantastic shows on the 27th, 28th and 29th of December as the infamous Robbie Williams Experience returns!
Starring Australia’s beloved entertainer Louie Lee Feltrin, the Robbie Williams Experience showcases plenty of iconic and celebrated hits like Let Me Entertain You, Angels, Millennium, Feel Better Man, Monsoon, Rock DJ, and more to have audiences singing and dancing like never before.
Ahead of Louie’s fifth time on the Airlie Beach Hotel stage, waves of excitement and anticipation have begun to build across the shire for the talented entertainer.
“I can’t wait to get back to Airlie Beach it’s one of my favourite places to play,” shared Louie.
“I’m looking forward to seeing everybody enjoying themselves, it’s going to be a ripper show!”
Melbourne born; Louie shot to fame for his uncanny portrayal of Robbie Williams on Channel 9’s Starstruck. Renowned as
one of the world’s best Robbie Williams impersonators, Louie’s talent captivates audiences with his remarkable vocal and physical resemblance to the treasured pop superstar.
In 2006, Louie’s show-stopping performance on Channel 10’s Grand Final Breakfast enthralled over three million viewers, including Australia’s Prime Minister and an audience of esteemed local and international dignitaries.
With the world well and truly under his spell, the Airlie Beach Hotel is beyond thrilled to present not two, but three unmissable Robbie Williams Experience shows for all to enjoy across Friday, Saturday and Sunday next weekend!
Come one, come all and get ready for an electrifying weekend of music and entertainment as The Robbie Williams Experience takes the stage at the Airlie Beach Hotel on the 27th, 28th and 29th of December from 2pm to 5.30pm and prepare to sing, laugh and dance your way into the late afternoon!
WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: 27th, 28th and 29th of December from 2pm to 5:30pm
MORE INFORMATION: thepubairliebeach.com.au
WHAT: The Robbie Williams Experience
24 Social Life
The Dingo Beach Christmas Market was a resounding success, thanks to the incredible efforts of the volunteers who brought this festive family event to life.
The market featured a diverse array of stalls and entertainment, filling the air with holiday cheer and creating a vibrant atmosphere for all.
Santa’s grand arrival was a standout moment, making a spectacular entrance aboard a fire truck, flanked by his cheerful elves and the dedicated Gloucester Rural Fire volunteers. They added a special touch by offering a gift-wrapping Christmas gift.
The event was made even more memorable through the support of the Dingo Beach Store and Hotel, alongside the generosity of local residents who donated to ensure a truly festive experience for everyone.
A heartfelt highlight was the success of the Dingo Beach Wishing Tree Appeal, which brought smiles to many children by delivering gifts. The community spirit was truly alive, making this year’s celebration one to remember.
SUNDAY 22nd of December
Grab your family, friends or work mates and party on the deck Live entertainment, Tapas and Cocktails from 3pm
Tables are filling fast - BOOK NOW to avoid disappointment
Carol singers, performing to the crowds Queensland Rural Fire Services helping out with Christmas Gift wrapping
Families enjoying meeting Santa
Gypsea Beachwear, one of the fantastic stalls at the market Santa arriving in a firetruck
Santa’s elves arriving
Santa greeting attendees upon arrival Big waves from Santa
Children enjoyed meeting Santa.
Photo credit: Ruth Puddefoot
Big Turn Out For Mental Health BBQ Breakfast
Alarge group of community-minded people gathered at a special end-of-year BBQ breakfast last Friday morning where two local businesses presented generous cheques from recent fundraising activities.
The event was organised by Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN) and Real Mates Talk, two local non-profit organisations which actively raise awareness and education for mental health in our community.
Kindly hosted by Shirtfront Solutions and
Enzed Whitsundays, the BBQ was held in the shared carpark on-site and the BBQ meats were donated by Master Butchers Whitsundays.
During the breakfast Whitsunday Bald Eagles presented a cheque for $5000 which were the proceeds of the 2024 MC Classics Mega Raffle, with many of the Baldies out and about selling tickets throughout the year.
In addition, Whitsunday Property Buyers presented a cheque for $500 which was greatly appreciated.
All money donated will be used to fund suicide awareness initiatives in the community.
These include free counselling for families impacted by suicide, free weekly Breathing Classes open to anyone in the community and various other courses/training sessions in the community.
The regular Friday BBQs are also a place for the community to gather together, connect and ‘check-in’ with each other about their mental wellbeing.
In 2025 these BBQ Breakfasts will continue one Friday per month beginning on Friday 21st February.
If you are concerned about your mental wellbeing or the wellbeing of someone you know, help is out there.
Locally, you can reach out to WSPN or Real Mates Talk via their Facebook pages.
You can also call the 24/7 Support Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467 anytime.
Or Lifeline Australia on 131114.
“THE LORD OF THE RINGS: THE WAR OF THE ROHIRRIM”(PG) 150mins. Adventure/Animation A sudden attack by Wulf, a clever and ruthless Dunlending lord seeking vengeance for the death of his father, forces Helm Hammerhand, the King of Rohan, and his people to make a daring last stand in the ancient stronghold of the Hornburg. Stars: Brian Cox, Luke Pasqualino, Miranda Otto “MUFASA: THE LION KING” (PG) 119mins. Family/Musical/Fantasy Mufasa, a cub lost and alone, meets a sympathetic lion named Taka, the heir to a royal bloodline. The chance meeting sets in motion an expansive journey of a group of misfits searching for their destiny. Stars: Aaron Pierre, Kelvin Harrison Jr., Seth Rogen “KRAVEN THE HUNTER” (MA) 110mins. Action/Thriller Kraven’s complex relationship with his ruthless father, Nikolai Kravinoff, starts him down a path of vengeance with brutal consequences, motivating him to become not only the greatest hunter in the world, but also one of its most feared. Stars: Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Russell Crowe, Fred Hechinger
“GLADIATOR II” 148mins (M) Sword&Sandal/Action/Adventure After his home is conquered by the tyrannical emperors who now lead Rome, Lucius is forced to enter the Colosseum and must look to his past to find strength to return the glory of Rome to its people. Stars: Pedro Pascal, Denzel Washington, Connie Nielsen “MOANA 2” (PG) 100mins. Comedy/Animation/Family After receiving an unexpected call from her wayfinding ancestors, Moana journeys to the far seas of Oceania and into dangerous, longlost waters for an adventure unlike anything she has ever faced. Stars: Dwayne Johnson, Auli’i Cravalho, Alan Tudyk “SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 3” (PG) 109mins. Family/Adventure/Comedy Sonic, Knuckles, and Tails reunite against a powerful new adversary, Shadow, a mysterious villain with powers unlike anything they have faced before. With their abilities outmatched, Team Sonic must seek out an unlikely alliance. Stars: Ben Schwartz,Colleen O’Shaughnessey, Idris Elba -
Whitsunday Bald Eagles presented a cheque for $5000 to help with suicide prevention in our community
Whitsunday Property Buyers presented a cheque for $500
Brad Dean and Dan Graham
Ken Sharpe and Mark Stokes
Kev Fancke and Barb Hill
Whitsunday Property Buyers Drew Colliver and Lara Kell-Colliver with their baby Hames
Cannonvale Cannons Celebrate And Wrap Up 2024 Season
The Cannonvale Cannons Swimming Club capped off their 2024 season with outstanding achievements, creative activities, and festive fun, marking the end of a remarkable year.
The season’s finale featured major upgrades for swimmers, including Liam Filewood and Zane Clayworth advancing to the 100m Butterfly, Miller Eaves to the 200m Freestyle, and several others achieving new event milestones. These advancements highlight the dedication and progress of the team.
Several club records were also shattered, with exceptional performances from Jax Clayworth (11-year boys 200m Butterfly), Eloise Chegwidden (9-year girls 50m Breaststroke and 100m Individual Medley), and Harry Chegwidden, who set his first-ever club record in the 7-year boys 25m Backstroke.
Swimmers who participated in the “Design Our Next Club Shirt” initiative were rewarded with Boost Juice vouchers for their creativity. Thanks to Boost Juice for supporting this fun activity as the club looks forward to unveiling the new 2025 design.
The Christmas-themed club night brought families together for the much-loved parent/child relays, providing a festive and light-hearted close to the season. The evening also honoured the Queensland State Long Course team, presenting swimmers with their team shirts ahead of their journey to Brisbane to compete in the Queensland Championships.
Congratulations to all swimmers, parents, and supporters for a fantastic 2024 season. Good luck to our state team, and here’s to more successes in the new year!
Contributed with thanks to Jade Korosec.
Tora Delac and Ruby Lawson took out the Christmas Fashions on the Pool Deck
Jasper and Lucas Korosec were awarded for their Christmas outfits
Harry Chegwidden with his first Cannons Club Record
Christmas Best Dressed duo Addie Sanders and Maeve Dichiera
Two new club records for Eloise Chegwidden
Good luck to the State Team swimmers in Brisbane this weekend
The club thanked their creative cannons for contributing to the Design a Club Shirt activity
Cannonvale Cannons Make Waves at Queensland Championships SWIMMING
The Cannonvale Cannons Swimming Club had an exciting start to the 2024 Queensland Swimming Championships in Brisbane last week, with 11 swimmers and two dedicated coaches making the journey to compete.
The championships kicked off on Saturday with the club and regional relays. For the first time in a while, the Cannons were able to nominate club relay teams, allowing Alex Trefz and Harris Delac the opportunity to swim in this prestigious event.
Swimmers Tiana Bell, Tyler Bennett, Ella Bounden, Tora Delac, Isaac Pisaniello, Isabella Pisaniello, and Zach Trefz took part in three club relays, while Harris Delac, Jacob Bell, and Alex Trefz competed in one relay. Coaches Mark Erickson and Ken Crittenden were proud of the team’s performance, commending the swimmers on their warm-up, positive attitude, and efforts in the relays.
A highlight of the event was the selection of eight Cannons swimmers for the regional relay teams, representing Swimming North Queensland (SNQ). Tora Delac, Ella Bounden, Tiana Bell, Isabella
Pisaniello (reserve), Isaac Pisaniello, Zach Trefz, Tyler Bennett, and Jacob Bell swam together in these regional relays and represented SNQ with pride. A special thank you goes to Mark Erickson for coaching the male relay teams and Theresa Manning for managing the SNQ relays.
The week continued with individual events, and on Sunday, Tyler Bennett, aged 13, competed in his 100m Freestyle, swimming a remarkable personal best time of 1:02.68, shaving off 1.19 seconds from his previous best. Well done, Tyler!
The Cannonvale Cannons Swimming Club extends its congratulations to all the swimmers on their relay results and wishes them the best of luck in their individual races throughout the championships. A big thank you goes to all the parents, coaches, and supporters for their continued dedication and efforts in making this trip possible. Stay tuned for more updates as the Cannons continue to compete at the Queensland Championships.
Contributed with thanks to President Raylene Rasmussen.
Airlie Beach Bowls Club Breaks Records!
BOWLS
It’s been another busy and exciting week at Airlie Beach Bowls Club, where the competitive spirit and camaraderie continue to shine through. The week kicked off on Tuesday morning with three strong games of bowls. Carol Crosbie, with lead Maureen Barnard, came out on top, defeating Margo Stanley and lead Lane Telford, who finished in third place. Second place went to skipper John Brown, alongside 2024 Novice Champion Dawn Dowell. The winners of the day were Henny Tattam, who returned from South Africa, and Betty Whitehorn at lead, who triumphed over Tony Whitehorn and Bev Taylor.
Wednesday afternoon brought more exciting matchups, with Rick Galea and lead David Meiklejohn, along with Arthur McManus, defeating Tony Whitehorn, Duncan Smith, and John Askew in a close contest. Meanwhile, John Fielding, with lead Dennis Donnadelli and Ted Cullen, was in great form, easily overcoming John Trembath, lead Mark Mawson, and Noel Crosbie.
Saturday morning saw the final Scroungers competition of the year, with John Askew, Tony Whitehorn, and Cath Remeswaal taking the first-round wins. John Askew was crowned the A Grade winner, while Andy McDougall triumphed in the B Grade final.
The evening then brought the much-anticipated presentation night, where the Men’s, Women’s, and Mixed Team awards,
as well as the singles awards, were presented. One outstanding achievement that stood out was the team of John Fielding, Russell Jackson, and skipper Manny Isgro winning the Two Bowl Triples for the fifth consecutive year. Russell and Manny also won in 2018 and 2019, setting a record that will be difficult to beat. Their smiles say it all – congratulations on an incredible performance!
Sunday afternoon brought another round of highly competitive social bowls. The club was delighted to welcome Mark Winter and his partner Jenny Lim from Bahama Bowls Club in Bundaberg, as well as Greg Colquhoun and former President Kevin Jewell. The club also welcomed new full member Jeff, who is sure to be an integral part of the team in the upcoming year. Looking ahead, Scroungers will return on Monday 13th January, and lessons will continue on Mondays and Thursdays between 4 and 5pm throughout the holiday season.
Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson.
Proserpine Veterans Golf’s Festive Celebrations
The Proserpine Veterans Golf Club celebrated its annual breakup in style at the Midge Point Tavern, marking the end of another fantastic year. Attendees enjoyed exceptional food and outstanding service, making the event a memorable success.
The highlight of the day was the final presentation of awards for the year, with several players recognised for their outstanding achievements. Tiina Randmae had a remarkable season, almost
sweeping the awards by claiming Golfer of the Year, the Monthly Medalist, and the Most Chip Ins. Adding to her streak of good fortune, she also won the lucky door prize!
Gary Scotford, though unable to attend, was celebrated as a Monthly Medalist and joint Golfer of the Year. Other winners included John Roser, who excelled with the Most Chip Ins, and Barry Mortimer, who was awarded for having the Least Putts. Meanwhile, Tessa Ait-
The club expressed heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to making 2024 such a successful year. With a warm spirit of camaraderie, the Proserpine Veterans Golf Club sends its members and supporters a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, looking forward to another great season ahead.
Contributed with thanks to Paula McQuat.
ken and Peter Lindsay took home the NAGA honours.
GOLF Tessa Aitken, Barry Mortimer, Tiina Randmae, and Peter Lindsay
Cannonvale Cannons are performing exceptionally at the 2024 QLD Swimming Championships
John Fielding, Manny Isgro and Russell Jackson
TRADES AND SERVICES
PUBLIC NOTICES
Regional Council - Public Notices & Tenders
SHAPING WHITSUNDAY WALKING TRAILS
Are you passionate about hiking and discovering our stunning natural landscapes?
We are assessing our Whitsunday Region’s mainland walking trail network to understand the public’s perception of and demand for upgraded or expanded walking trails in the Region. Our natural assets are a strength of our Region, and we are eager to understand if they meet the needs of residents and visitors. Currently, there are 19 mainland trails in Whitsundays, of varying length, difficulty and habitats. Take the time to have your say on your experiences or ideas for our trail network. Have your say via hardcopy surveys at customer service centres or online via our Online Engagement Portal - https://bit.ly/whitsundaytrails
EROSION & SEDIMENT CONTROL INSPECTION PROGRAM
As the wet season begins, it’s vital for construction sites to minimize erosion and sediment losses that harm waterway health, especially over the Christmas break.
From November to April 2025, we’re running a collaborative Erosion and Sediment Control Inspection Program to protect our waterways, sea grasses, and reef ecosystems. Builders, developers, and site supervisors are encouraged to implement best practice controls to minimize sediment loss and safeguard our environment. Learn more about best practice erosion and sediment controls at https://bit.ly/ Whitsundaywaterways.
COUNCIL FACILITY CLOSURE - CHRISTMAS / NEW YEAR PERIOD
Customer Service Centres & Libraries
Closing: 4:45pm Friday 20 December 2024
Reopening: 8:15am Monday 6 January 2025
If you require assistance during this time, please call 1300 WRC QLD (1300 972 753) to talk to our after hours team.
Proserpine Entertainment Centre
Closed: Christmas Day - Wednesday 25th December. Please note in regards to cinema screenings, the Box Office will open 1 hour prior to the first screening of the day and will close 30 minutes after the last screening.
Exceptional 1 Acre Corner Block Family Home With Shed
Nestled on a generous 4,007 sqm corner block, this well-presented home offers an exceptional lifestyle opportunity in the heart of Cannon Valley. Perfectly positioned just minutes from the vibrant Cannonvale Shopping Centre and Airlie Beach, this property combines space and privacy, offering the best of both worlds – a peaceful retreat with easy access to all the amenities the Whitsundays have to offer.
The home features 4 bedrooms, and 2 bathrooms, including a master with ensuite, ensuring comfort and privacy for the whole family. A practical separate laundry and a large 2-car garage provide plenty of room for storage and everyday convenience.
Outside, the property truly shines. At the rear, a
massive 6x9m shed with an additional 6x9m concrete pad offers the perfect space for a workshop or to store your toys. The home also comes equipped with a 5kW solar system, bore, irrigation system, and 3 x 25,000L water tanks.
The expansive corner block offers endless possibilities – with ample space to create your dream outdoor oasis, including room for a pool, and a blank canvas to landscape your garden.
The vendor is moving to Brazil and is committed to selling. Offers are welcome prior to the auction. Don’t miss out on this rare opportunity to secure a fantastic family home in one of the Whitsundays’ most desirable locations.
WEEKLYTVGUIDE
6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Back Roads. 10.25 I Was Actually There. 10.55 Royal Carols. 12.00 News. 1.00 Shetland. 2.00 Maggie Beer’s Big Mission. 3.00 A Bite To Eat. 3.30 Long Lost Family. 4.15 Grand Designs: House Of The Year. 5.00 Antiques Roadshow. 6.00 A Bite To Eat. 6.30 Hard Quiz Kids. 7.00 News. 7.30 A (Very) Musical Christmas. 9.00 The Yearly With Charlie Pickering. 10.00 Neighbours Does Hard Quiz. (PG) 10.30 The Cleaner. (M) 11.30 Grand Designs: House Of The Year. 12.20 Rage Best New Releases 2024. (MA15+) 5.00 Rage.
6.00 Rage Best Of The Charts 2024. 7.00 Weekend Breakfast. 9.00 Rage. 10.30 Rage Best Of The Guests 2024. 12.00 News. 12.30 All Creatures Great And Small. 1.15 Miniseries: Douglas Is Cancelled. 1.55 Matthew Bourne’s Nutcracker! 3.25 Solar System With Brian Cox. 4.30 Headliners. 5.30 Landline. 6.00 Take 5. (PG) 6.30 Muster Dogs: Where Are They Now. (PG) 7.00 News. 7.30 All Creatures Great And Small. (PG) 8.20 Vera. (M) 9.50 Miniseries: Douglas Is Cancelled. (M) 10.30 Shetland. (M) 11.30 Rage Best Of The Guests 2024. 5.00 Rage Best Of The Guests 2024.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.30 Extraordinary Escapes: Christmas Special. 2.20 Outback Musical. 3.05 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. 3.50 Long Lost Family: Born Without A Trace. 5.00 Fake Or Fortune? 6.00 Antiques Roadshow. 7.00 News. 7.30 Muster Dogs: Where Are They Now. 8.00 Miniseries: Douglas Is Cancelled. 8.45 Love Me. 9.30 Spicks And Specks. 11.10 Take 5. 11.40 You Can’t Ask That. 12.45 New Leash On Life. 1.10 Rage Vault. 3.05 Australia Remastered: Forces Of Nature. 4.00 Gardening Aust. 5.00 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 News. 1.00 Death In Paradise. 2.30 Maggie Beer’s Christmas Feast. 3.00 A Bite To Eat. 3.30 Long Lost Family. 4.15 Grand Designs: House Of The Year. 5.05 Antiques Roadshow. 6.00
A Bite To Eat. 6.30 Hard Quiz Kids. 7.00 News. 7.30 Tracy: A Force Of Nature. 8.30 ABBA: Against The Odds. 10.05 The Rise And Fall Of Boris Johnson. 11.00 A Life In Ten Pictures. 11.55 Grand Designs: House Of The Year. 12.45 Long Lost Family. 1.30 Rage. 3.30 That Christmas. 4.30 Gardening Australia. 5.30 A Bite To Eat.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Headliners. 1.50 Bluey. 2.00 Brush With Fame. 2.30 Shaun The Sheep. 3.00 A Bite To Eat. 3.30 Long Lost Family. 4.15 Grand Designs: House Of The Year. 5.05 Antiques Roadshow. 6.00 A Bite To Eat. 6.30 Hard Quiz Kids. 7.00 National News. 7.30 Shaun Micallef’s Eve Of Destruction. 8.05 MOVIE: A Boy Called Christmas. (2021) 9.45 Believing In Australia. 10.35 Believing In Australia. 11.30 Ithaka: A Fight To Free Julian Assange. 12.30 Keep On Dancing. 1.35 Grand Designs: House Of The Year. 2.25 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 News. 12.30 MOVIE: A Boy Called Christmas. (2021) 2.05 MOVIE: A Christmas Carol. (1938) 3.15 A (Very) Musical Christmas. 4.45 Bluey. 4.55 Classic Choir: The Christmas Card. 5.00 Antiques Roadshow. 6.00 Royal Carols: Together At Christmas. 7.00 National News. 7.30 TBA. 7.40 The Royal Variety Performance. 9.40 Would I Lie To You? At Christmas. 10.10 Adam Hills: The Last Leg. 10.55 Spicks And Specks. 11.25 Summer Love. 12.25 Long Lost Family. 1.10 Rage. 3.30 Christmas Cabaret. 4.30 Gardening Aust. 5.30 A Bite To Eat.
6.00 Morning Programs. 11.00 Tracy: A Force Of Nature. 12.00 News. 1.00 The Royal Variety Performance. 3.00 A Bite To Eat. 3.25 Long Lost Family. 4.15 Grand Designs: House Of The Year. 5.00 Antiques Roadshow. 6.00 A Bite To Eat. 6.25 Hard Quiz Kids. 7.00 National News. 7.30 Call The Midwife: 2023 Christmas Special. 9.00 Fake Or Fortune? 10.00 Midnight Oil: The Hardest Line. 11.45 Grand Designs: House Of The Year. 12.30 Long Lost Family. 1.20 Rage. 3.40 Ho Ho Ho! Telling Christmas Tales. 4.30 Gardening Aust. 5.30 A Bite To Eat.
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 TradFest: The Fingal Sessions. 2.30 Language Of Light. 3.00 Plat Du Tour. 3.10 French Atlantic. 3.40 The Cook Up. 4.10 The Supervet. 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. 6.00 Mastermind Aust. 6.30 News. 7.30 Every Family Has A Secret. 8.35 Marlon Brando In Paradise. 9.35 Kennedy. 10.25 SBS News. 10.55 De Gaulle. 11.55 Kin. 1.55 Miniseries: Too Close. 2.50 Legacy List With Matt Paxton. 3.55 Make Me A Dealer. 4.45 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. 5.00 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 Portillo’s Greatest Railway Journeys. 2.55 Plat Du Tour. 3.05 French Atlantic. 3.35 Ethnic Business Awards. 5.35 Weeks Of War. 6.30 News. 7.30 Magical Train Journeys In Switzerland. 8.30 Christmas At Longleat. 9.25 Tis The Season: The Holidays On Screen. 10.55 Great Australian Railway Journeys. 12.05 Miniseries: The Dark Heart. 2.40 Love Your Garden. 3.30 Make Me A Dealer. 4.20 Peer To Peer. 4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Speedweek. 3.00 Seeds: Planting Hope Through Education. 3.45 Portillo’s Greatest Railway Journeys. 4.40 Portillo’s Greatest Railway Journeys. 5.35 Weeks Of War. 6.30 News. 7.30 Tsunami 2004: The Day The Wave Hit. 9.20 Jonathan Ross’ Myths And Legends. 10.15 Curse Of The Ancients. 11.05 Napoleon: In The Name Of Art. 1.00 Rise Of The Nazis: Dictators At War. 2.10 Love Your Garden. 3.05 Make Me A Dealer. 4.00 Peer To Peer. 4.30 Bamay. 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 TradFest: The Fingal Sessions. 2.30 Language Of Light. 3.00 Plat Du Tour. 3.10 French Atlantic. 3.40 The Cook Up. 4.10 The Supervet. 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. 6.00 Mastermind Aust. 6.30 News. 7.35 Christmas At Graceland. 8.25 Never Mind The Buzzcocks Christmas. 10.10 How To Make It In Comedy. 11.05 Dead Mountain: The Dyatlov Pass Incident. 12.05 Dead Mountain: The Dyatlov Pass Incident. 1.10 Wisting. 2.00 Legacy List With Matt Paxton. 3.05 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 Tradfest: The Dublin Castle Sessions. 2.30 Language Of Light. 3.00 Plat Du Tour. 3.05 Plat Du Tour. 3.10 French Atlantic. 3.40 The Cook Up. 4.10 The Supervet. 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. 6.00 Mastermind Aust. 6.30 News. 7.35 Christmas Carols From London Coliseum. 8.30 Christmas In The Cotswolds. 9.25 ABBA In Concert. 10.25 The Big Fat Quiz Of Telly. 12.05 Babylon Berlin. 1.00 Babylon Berlin. 2.05 Portillo’s Greatest Railway Journeys. 3.55 Legacy List With Matt Paxton. 5.00 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 The Point: Road To Referendum History Bites. 2.05 Tradfest: The Dublin Castle Sessions. 2.35 Such Was Life. 2.45 Plat Du Tour. 2.55 The Cook Up. 3.25 Lapland: The Ultimate Winter Wonderland. 4.15 Copenhagen: Europe’s Greatest Christmas Market. 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. 6.00 Mastermind Aust. 6.30 News. 7.30 No Hamburg, No Beatles. 8.30 Rock Legends: ABBA. 9.30 The Night Manager. 10.35 Paul Newman: Always On The Move. 11.35 Maxima. 12.35 Pagan Peak. 1.35 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 Tradfest: The Dublin Castle Sessions. 2.30 Language Of Light. 3.00 French Atlantic. 3.30 The Cook Up. 4.00 The Lakes With Simon Reeve. 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. 6.00 Mastermind Aust. 6.30 News. 7.30 Going Places. 8.30 The Emerald Isles With Ardal O’Hanlon. 9.30 Daddy Issues. 10.30 Billy Joel: Live At Yankee Stadium. 12.05 DNA. 1.00 Blackout: Tomorrow Is Too Late. 1.55 Miniseries: The Night Logan Woke Up. 4.10 Make Me A Dealer. 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 11.30 News. 12.00 MOVIE: Cooking Up Christmas. (2020) 2.00 Motorbike Cops. (PG) 2.15 Catch Phrase. (PG) 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 News. 5.00 The Chase Aust. 6.00 Seven Local News. 6.30 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens Summer. 8.30 MOVIE: Jaws. (1975) (M) Roy Scheider, Richard Dreyfuss, Robert Shaw. 11.00 MOVIE: Underwater. (2020) (M) 1.00 Taken. (M) 2.00 Shopping. 4.00 Million Dollar Minute. 5.00 NBC Today.
6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Horse Racing. Royal Randwick Raceday, Pakenham Cup Day and Seven Members Mile Raceday. 5.00 News. 5.30 Creek To Coast. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens Summer. 8.00 Carols In The Domain. (PG) From The Domain, Sydney. 10.30 NSW Schools Spectacular. (PG) 1.00 Taken. (M) 2.00 Home Shopping. 4.00 It’s Academic. 5.00 My Greek Odyssey. (PG)
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Reignite: A Brisbane Heat Story. 2.00 Christmas With The Salvos. 2.30 MOVIE: A Furry Little Christmas. (2021) 4.30 Beach Cops. 5.00 News. 5.30 Weekender. 6.00 News. 7.00 Cricket. Big Bash League. Match 9. Brisbane Heat v Adelaide Strikers. 9.30 BBL Post-Game. 10.00 7NEWS Spotlight. 11.00 Crime Investigation Australia: Most Infamous. 12.15 Miniseries: Patrick Melrose. 1.30 Travel Oz. 2.00 Shopping. 3.30 Million Dollar Minute. 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise 5am News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 11.30 News. 12.00 MOVIE: Steppin’ Into The Holiday. (2022) 2.00 Catch Phrase. 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 News. 5.00 The Chase Aust. 6.00 Seven Local News. 6.30 Seven News. 7.00 Cricket. Big Bash League. Match 10. Melbourne Renegades v Perth Scorchers. 9.30 Big Bash League Post-Game. 10.00 Murder In A Small Town. (M) 11.00 Armed And Dangerous. (M) 12.30 Satisfaction. (MA15+) 1.30 Travel Oz. (PG) 2.00 Shopping. 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise 5am News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 11.30 News. 12.00 MOVIE: Love In Winterland. (2020) 2.00 Catch Phrase. (PG) 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 News. 5.00 The Chase Aust. 6.00 Seven Local News. 6.30 Seven News. 7.00 Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. (PG) 9.00 MOVIE: Groundhog Day. (1993) (PG) Bill Murray, Andie MacDowell, Chris Elliott. 11.10 ABBA Vs Queen. (PG) 12.10 Satisfaction. (MA15+) 2.00 Shopping. 4.00 Million Dollar Minute. 5.00 My Greek Odyssey. (PG)
6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Carols In The Domain. 9.30 Alinta Energy Christmas Pageant. 10.30 Mayor’s Christmas Carols. 11.30 St John Ambulance Carols By Candlelight. 2.00 Christmas With The Salvos. 2.30 MOVIE: A Christmas Number One. (2021) 5.00 The Chase Aust. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The Force: Behind The Line. (PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Love Actually. (2003) (M) 10.15 MOVIE: Last Christmas. (2019) (PG) 12.30 Stan Lee’s Lucky Man. (MA15+) 2.30 Shopping. 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise 5am News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra Summer. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: Forever Christmas. (2018) 2.00 Pointless. 3.00 Tipping Point. 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. (PG) 5.30 News. 6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Find My Beach House Australia. 8.30 MOVIE: Jingle All The Way. (1996) (PG) 10.15 MOVIE: Parenthood. (1989) (M) 12.35 Tipping Point. (PG) 1.30 TV Shop. 4.00 Skippy. 4.30 Global Shop. 5.00 TV Shop. 5.30 Postcards Summer.
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Today Extra Summer. 12.00 Drive TV. 12.30 Drive Safer. 1.00 My Way. 1.30 Great Getaways. 2.30 MOVIE: Planes, Trains And Christmas Trees. (2022) 4.30 Helloworld. 5.00 9News First At Five. 5.30 Country House Hunters Australia. 6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 ACA. 7.30 MOVIE: Central Intelligence. (2016) 9.40 MOVIE: Vacation. (2015) 11.35 MOVIE: The Dunes. (2021) 1.10 Australia’s Top Ten Of Everything. 2.00 The Incredible Journey. 2.30 TV Shop. 4.30 Global Shop. 5.00 TV Shop. 5.30 Helping Hands. 6.00 Morning Programs. 9.30 Drew Barrymore. 10.00 The Weekly Kick-Off. 10.30 Wheel Of Fortune Australia. 11.30 Deal Or No Deal: Celebrity Jackpot. 12.30 GCBC. 1.00 10 Minute Kitchen. 1.30 The Yes Experiment. 2.00 4x4 Adventures. 3.00 Expedition Tasmania. 3.30 My Market Kitchen. 4.00 All 4 Adventure. 5.00 News. 6.00 Jamie’s Christmas Shortcuts. 7.00 Dog House.
6.00 Hello SA. 6.30 ACA. 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Cross Court. 10.30 Fishing Aust. 11.00 Maritime Masters: Expedition Antarctica. 12.00 Drive TV. 12.30 Innovation Nation. 12.40 Bondi Vet. 1.40 Find My Beach House Australia. 2.40 MOVIE: Unforgettable Christmas. (2023) 4.30 Helloworld. 5.00 9News First At Five. 5.30 RBT. 6.00 9News Sunday. 7.00 Christmas With Delta. 9.00 MOVIE: The Holiday. (2006) (M) 11.40 The Brokenwood Mysteries. (M) 1.30 TV Shop. 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. 4.30 GolfBarons. 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra Summer. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: Christmas On Holly Lane. (2018) 2.00 Pointless. 3.00 Tipping Point. 4.00 9News Afternoon. 5.00 Tipping Point Australia. 6.00 9News. 7.00 ACA. 7.30 RBT. (M) 8.30 Australian Crime Stories: The Investigators. (MA15+) 9.30 Miniseries: Love Rat. (PG) 10.30 Miniseries: Love Rat. 11.30 Chicago Med. 12.15 Tipping Point. 1.05 Drive TV. 1.30 TV Shop. 2.30 Global Shop. 3.00 TV Shop. 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. 4.30 ACA. 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
6.00 Morning Programs. 9.00 My Market Kitchen. 9.30 Australia By Design: Architecture. 10.00 Drew Barrymore. 11.00 Luxury Escapes. 11.30 Buy To Build. 12.00 Pooches At Play. 12.30 Cook With Luke. 1.00 Everyday Gourmet. 1.30 Basketball. NBL. Round 13. Illawarra Hawks v Perth Wildcats. 3.30 GCBC. 4.00 Expedition: Australia’s West Coast. 4.30 Farm To Fork. 5.00 News. 6.00 Dog House. 7.00 Mariah Carey: Merry Christmas To All. 9.00 The Graham Norton Show. 10.10 MOVIE: Baywatch. (2017) 12.30 Shopping. 4.30 CBS Morning.
6.00 Morning Programs. 7.30 Farm To Fork. 8.00 Key Ingredient. 8.30 Bold. 9.00 Drew Barrymore. 10.00 Judge Judy. 10.30 Wheel Of Fortune Australia. 11.30 Ent. Tonight. 12.00 Farm To Fork. 12.30 Family Feud. 1.00 Jamie’s Christmas Shortcuts. 2.00 Wheel Of Fortune. 2.30 Lingo. 3.30 Judge Judy. 4.00 Family Feud. 4.30 Bold. 5.00 News. 6.00 Deal Or No Deal. 6.30 Dog House Aust. 7.30 Wheel Of Fortune Australia. 8.30 Matlock. 9.30 Five Bedrooms. 10.30 The Graham Norton Show. 11.30 Stephen Colbert. 12.30 Shopping. 4.30 CBS Morning.
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra Summer. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: Christmas At The Chalet. (2023) 2.00 Pointless. 3.00 Tipping Point. 4.00 9News Afternoon. 5.00 Tipping Point Australia. 6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Christmas With Delta. 8.00 Carols By Candlelight. (PG) 11.00 MOVIE: Candy Cane Christmas. (2020) (G) 1.00 Drive Safer. 1.30 TV Shop. 2.30 Our State On A Plate. (PG) 3.00 TV Shop. 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PG) 4.30 ACA. 5.00 Christmas At Warwick Castle. 6.00 Morning Programs. 8.30 Bold. 9.00 Drew Barrymore. 10.00 Judge Judy. 10.30 Wheel Of Fortune Australia. 11.30 Ent. Tonight. 12.00 Farm To Fork. 12.30 Family Feud. 1.00 Jamie’s Christmas Shortcuts. 2.00 Wheel Of Fortune. 2.30 Lingo. 3.30 Judge Judy. 4.00 Family Feud. 4.30 Bold. 5.00 News. 6.00 Deal Or No Deal. 6.30 Dog House Aust. 7.30 Cheap Seats. 8.40 MOVIE: Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation. (2015) 11.15 The Graham Norton Show. 12.15 Stephen Colbert. 1.05 Hour Of Power Christmas Eve Special. 2.00 Shopping. 4.30 CBS Morning.
6.00 Morning Programs. 8.00 Lord Mayor’s Christmas Carols. 10.00 WIN Symphony Orchestra Special. 11.00 Christmas With Delta. 1.00 Carols By Candlelight. 4.00 MOVIE: Blizzard. (2003) 6.00 9News. 7.00 ACA. 7.30 MOVIE: National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. (1989) 9.30 MOVIE: National Lampoon’s Vacation. (1983) 11.30 The King’s Christmas Message. 11.40 MOVIE: The Jazz Singer. (1980) 1.35 TV Shop. 2.30 Global Shop. 3.00 TV Shop. 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. 4.30 ACA. 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today. 6.00 The Talk. 7.00 Jamie: Together At Christmas. 8.00 Jamie’s One-Pan Christmas. 10.00 Dog House. 11.00 Dog House. 1.00 Christmas With Australian Women’s Weekly. 2.00 Mariah Carey: Merry Christmas To All. 3.45 The King’s Christmas Message. 3.55 The Graham Norton Show. 5.00 News. 6.00 MOVIE: School Of Rock. (2003)
6.00 Morning Programs. 11.30 Test Cricket: The Lunch Break. 12.10 Cricket. Fourth Test. Australia v India. Day 1. Afternoon session. 2.10 Test Cricket: Tea Break. 2.30 Cricket. Fourth Test. Australia v India. Day 1. Late afternoon session. 5.00 The Chase Aust. 6.00 News. 7.00 Cricket. Big Bash League. Match 11. Sydney Sixers v Melbourne Stars. 8.10 Cricket. Big Bash League. Match 12. Perth Scorchers v Brisbane Heat. 11.30 Why Ships Crash. 12.45 Criminal Confessions. 2.00 Shopping. 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise 5am News. 5.30 Sunrise. 6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra Summer. 11.30 Sailing. Sydney Hobart Yacht Race. 1.00 Cross Court. 1.30 Find My Beach House Australia. 2.00 Pointless. 3.00 Tipping Point. 4.00 9News Afternoon. 5.00 Tipping Point Australia. 6.00 9News. 7.00
7.35pm Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. (R)
8.00 Scooby-Doo And Guess Who? (R)
8.25 Mythbusters
“There’s Your Problem!”. (PG)
8.50 Robot Wars. (R)
9.50 Doctor Who. (PG, R)
10.50 Operation Ouch! (R)
11.20 Horrible Histories. (R)
7.30pm Wallace And Gromit: A Matter Of Loaf And Death. (R)
8.00 The Crystal Maze. (PG, R)
8.45 Fresh Off The Boat. (PG, R)
9.30 Speechless. (PG, R)
9.50 Officially Amazing. (PG)
10.45 Log Horizon. (PG, R)
11.05 Soundtrack To Our Teenage Zombie Apocalypse. (PG, R)
7.30pm Movie: Paddington. (2014) (G, R) Ben Whishaw. 9.00 A (Very) Musical Christmas. (R)
10.30 Speechless. (PG, R)
10.50 Doctor Who. (PG, R)
11.55 So Awkward. (R)
12.50am Silverpoint. (PG, R)
1.35 Transformers: EarthSpark. (PG, R)
1.55 Lloyd Of The Flies. (R)
7.30pm Shaun The Sheep: The Flight Before Christmas. (R)
8.00 Movie: Get Santa. (2014) (PG, R)
9.40 Doctor Who. (PG, R)
10.30 Mythbusters
“There’s Your Problem!”. (PG, R)
10.55 Operation Ouch! (R)
11.25 Horrible Histories. (R)
11.50 So Awkward. (R)
7.35pm Mystery Lane. (R)
8.20 Miraculous: Tales Of Ladybug And Cat Noir. (R)
8.45 Be Cool, ScoobyDoo! (R)
9.05 Teen Titans Go! (PG, R)
9.20 Doctor Who. (PG, R)
10.10 Horrible Histories. (R)
10.40 Mythbusters
“There’s Your Problem!”. (PG, R)
7.35pm Movie: Scoob! (2020) (PG, R)
9.10 Wallace And Gromit: A Matter Of Loaf And Death. (R)
9.40 Wallace And Gromit: A Grand Day Out. (R)
10.00 Horrible Histories. (R)
10.30 Mythbusters
“There’s Your Problem!”. (PG, R)
10.55 Operation Ouch! (R)
7.35pm Movie: Pokémon Detective Pikachu. (2019) (PG, R)
9.20 Secrets Of The Zoo. (PG)
10.00 Doctor Who. (PG, R)
10.50 Mythbusters “There’s Your Problem!”. (PG, R) 11.15 Horrible Histories. (PG, R) 11.45 Good Game Spawn Point. (PG, R)
12.20am Rage. (PG, R)
5.30pm Escape To The Country. (R)
6.30 Bargain Hunt. (R)
7.30 The Yorkshire Vet. (PG, R)
8.30 Escape To The Country. (R)
10.30 I Escaped To The Country. (R)
11.30 Escape To The Country. (R)
12.30 House Calls To The Rescue. (R)
6.00pm Heathrow. (PG, R)
6.30 Bondi Vet. (PG, R)
7.30 The Yorkshire Vet. (PG, R)
8.30 Escape To The Country. (R)
9.30 I Escaped To The Country. (PG)
10.30 Australia’s Amazing Homes. (PG, R)
11.30 The Yorkshire Vet. (PG, R)
6.00pm Taste Of Australia With Hayden Quinn.
6.30 Escape To The Country. (R)
7.30 Rosemary & Thyme. (PG, R)
8.30 McDonald And Dodds. (M, R) 10.30 Great Scenic Railway Journeys. (PG, R)
11.15 The Highland Vet. (PG, R)
5.30pm Escape To The Country. (R)
6.30 Bargain Hunt. (R)
7.30 Doc Martin. (M, R)
8.30 Inspector Morse. (M, R)
10.50 Bargain Hunt. (R)
11.50 Murdoch Mysteries. (M, R)
12.50 Doc Martin. (M, R)
2.00 Harry’s Practice. (R)
5.30pm Escape To The Country. (R)
6.30 Bargain Hunt. (R)
7.30 Call The Midwife. (M, R)
8.45 Inspector George Gently. (M, R)
10.45 The Yorkshire Vet. (PG, R)
11.45 Bargain Hunt. (R)
12.45 Inspector George Gently. (M, R)
5.30pm Escape To The Country. (R)
6.30 Bargain Hunt. (R)
7.30 Heartbeat. (PG, R)
8.45 The Inspector Lynley Mysteries. (M, R) 10.45 Law & Order: UK. (M, R)
11.45 Bargain Hunt. (R)
12.45 The Inspector Lynley Mysteries. (M, R)
5.30pm Escape To The Country. (R)
6.30 Bargain Hunt. (R)
7.30 Father Brown. (M, R)
8.30 Murdoch Mysteries. (M, R)
11.30 Father Brown. (M, R)
12.30 Bargain Hunt. (R)
1.30 Mt Hutt Rescue. (PG, R)
5.30pm American Pickers. (PG, R)
6.30 Pawn Stars. (PG, R)
7.30 Surveillance Oz. (PG, R)
8.30 Movie: 65. (2023) (M, R) Adam Driver, Ariana Greenblatt.
8.30 Movie: The World Is Not Enough. (1999) (M, R)
11.05 Police After Dark. (M, R)
12.00 Lost Relic Hunters. (PG, R)
5.25pm Movie: The War Wagon. (1967) (PG, R)
7.30 Movie: Die Another Day. (2002) (M, R) Pierce Brosnan, Halle Berry.
10.10 Movie: The Nice Guys. (2016) (MA15+, R) Russell Crowe, Ryan Gosling.
12.30 Movie: Poison Pen. (1939) (PG, R)
2.30pm Movie: The Greatest Story Ever Told. (1965) (G, R)
6.30 M*A*S*H. (PG, R)
8.30 Movie: Jason Bourne. (2016) (M, R)
10.55 French And Saunders: Christmas Special French And Saunders Actually. (M) 11.55 Chicago Med. (MA15+, R) 12.55 Movie: Wonderful Life. (1964) (G, R)
5.30pm The Travelling Auctioneers. (R) 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
7.30 Death In Paradise. (M, R)
8.40 The Good Karma Hospital. (M, R)
9.40 Agatha Raisin. (M, R) 10.40 Law & Order: Organized Crime. (MA15+, R) 11.40 See No Evil. (M, R)
5.30pm The Travelling Auctioneers. (R)
6.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 7.30 New Tricks. (M, R) 8.40 Shakespeare And Hathaway. (M, R) 9.40 French And Saunders: Christmas Special. (M) 10.40 Blackadder’s Christmas Carol. (PG, R) 11.40 Christmas At Warwick Castle. (R)
5.50pm Keeping Up Appearances. (R)
6.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
7.30 To The Manor Born. (R)
8.40 Midsomer Murders. (M, R)
10.40 Harry Wild. (M, R)
11.40 Christmas At Highclere Castle. (R)
12.45 Explore. (R)
1.00 Creflo Dollar Ministries. (PG, R)
5.30pm All 4 Adventure. (PG, R)
6.30 JAG. (PG, R)
7.30 NCIS. (M, R) 10.20 FBI: Most Wanted. (M, R)
11.15 Evil. (MA15+)
12.15 Home Shopping. (R)
6.00pm Frasier. (PG, R)
6.30 Ghosts. (PG, R)
7.30 Friends. (PG, R)
8.00 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R)
10.30 The Neighborhood. (PG, R)
11.00 Impractical Jokers. (M, R)
11.30 Entertainment Tonight. (R) 12.00 Home Shopping. (R)
11.30 Entertainment Tonight. (R) 12.00 Home Shopping. (R)
5.30pm JAG. (PG, R)
6.30 JAG. (PG, R)
7.30 NCIS. (M, R)
9.25 FBI: Most Wanted. (M, R) 11.15 Evil. (MA15+) 12.15 Home Shopping. (R)
6.00pm Frasier. (PG, R)
6.30 Friends. (PG, R)
8.00 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R)
9.30 Two And A Half Men. (M, R)
10.30 The Neighborhood. (PG, R)
11.00 Impractical Jokers. (M, R)
12.00 Entertainment Tonight. (R)
12.30 Home Shopping. (R)
5.50pm The Joy Of Painting With Bob Ross. (R)
6.20 The Curse Of Oak Island. (PG, R) 7.05 Jeopardy! (R)
7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M, R) 8.30 The UnBelievable With Dan Aykroyd. (M) 9.20 Stacey Dooley: Inside The Convent. (R) 10.30 Rob & Romesh Vs Christmas. (M)
6.10pm Travel Man: Jon Hamm In Hong Kong. (PG, R)
7.05 Jeopardy! (R) 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M, R) 8.30 The UnXplained Mysteries Of The Universe. (PG) 9.20 Hoarders. (M) 10.55 Two Weeks To Live. (M, R) 11.55 Letterkenny. (M, R)
6.10pm Travel Man: Rebel Wilson In Florence. (PG, R)
7.05 Jeopardy! (R)
7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M, R) 8.30 Movie: The Running Man. (1987) (MA15+, R)
9.30 Two And A Half Men. (M, R) 10.30 The Neighborhood. (PG, R) 11.00 Impractical Jokers. (M, R)
11.30 Entertainment Tonight. (R) 12.00 Home Shopping. (R)
6.10pm Travel Man: 96 Hours In Jordan. (PG, R)
7.05 Jeopardy! (R)
7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M, R) 8.30 Holy Marvels With Dennis Quaid. (PG) 10.05 Cars That Built The World. (PG, R) 10.55 Question Team. (M, R) 12.35 Dark Side Of The 2000s. (M, R)
1 Angelic messenger (7)
5 Fidgety (8)
9 Something that hinders progress (8)
13 First course in an Italian meal (9)
14 Estonian sea (6)
16 Show (8)
17 Corrupt (7)
18 Cauliflower relative (8)
19 Cricket players (8)
20 Bird with a large wingspan (9)
25 Beachcomber’s find (8)
26 Looked lecherously (6)
27 Despot (8)
28 Vast (7)
30 Calms with drugs (7)
33 Letter-writer (13)
37 Female server (8)
41 Fierce animals (5)
42 Generosity (11)
43 Bottom (5)
44 Covertly (8)
47 Of or relating to statistics (13)
50 Flattened spoon (7)
53 Precious ornamental headband (7)
56 Post-secondary (8)
57 Depth charge targets (1-5)
59 Kind of participle (8)
60 Onlooker (9)
65 Crushing defeat (8)
66 Sleeveless dress (8)
67 Mollusc (7)
68 Cocktail of rum and lime juice (8)
69 Alcove (6)
72 Consequently (9)
73 Historian and general (8)
74 Asian cooking staple (3,5)
75 Angry outbursts (7)
DOWN
1 Alhambra’s city (7)
2 Trough for washing the body (7)
3 Stamp (7)
4 Basutoland, now (7)
5 Equilateral parallelogram (7)
6 Beverage (3)
7 Gobble (3)
8 Offering (9)
9 Unspecified time in the future (coll) (3,2,5,4)
10 Spun in a chair, say (9)
11 Correction (9)
12 A fodder crop (7)
14 Flourish (7)
15 Passage through locks (7)
21 Wild animal’s den (4)
22 Drawer (6)
23 Cease to work (6)
24 Nimble (4)
29 Gin-based cocktail (7)
31 Horn of a deer (6)
32 Catcher’s fingerwaggling (6)
34 Fertile spot (5)
35 Breakwater (7)
36 Architectural projection (5)
38 Old counting frame (6)
39 Reddish-brown (6)
40 Small, sturdy equines (8,6)
45 Red wine (6)
46 Banner (6)
48 Remain (4)
49 Unbind (4)
51 Ballet position with one leg raised (9)
52 Putting others need above their own (9)
53 Plots (9)
54 Prevailing weather (7)
55 Absorb, immerse (7)
58 Swaggering show of courage (7)
60 Respire (7)
61 Questionable (7)
62 Dabbler (7)
ACROSS 1 Angelic messenger (7) 5 Fidgety (8) 9 Something that hinders progress (8)
