Whitsunday Life

Friday August 4th

WEEKLY PROPERTY GUIDE

INSIDE

FEATURE PROPERTY

6/159-171 Shingley Dr, Airlie Beach

Experience Eternal Holiday Vibes at Marina Shores!

read on page 47

Great Barrier Reef Festival 3 – 6 August

Airlie Beach will reach fever-pitch this weekend as the Cruise Whitsundays Great Barrier Reef Festival takes over the town for this family-friendly culture and

community event.

Now in its 22 year, the festival is an iconic part of the Whitsunday event calendar and thou-

sands are expected to come to town and enjoy dozens of exciting events over an action packed four days.

Read on page 19

read on page 3

Noemi Martinez, Margaret Burgess, Margie Murphy, Bridgette Peel, Anita Pender and Liz Knight setting up the Immerse Art Installation at Fairy Tree Park on Wednesday morning.

Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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Hi Everyone,

Three years ago, when News Corp announced they were shutting 14 regional newspapers overnight, three of which were located in the Whitsundays, our region instantly lost all its printed weekly news.

Friends could no longer gather to complete the newspaper’s weekly crossword, die-hard TV guide fans could no longer circle their favourite shows in ink, but more than that – the local community had lost its connection.

Whose kid had competed in what sport? What’s going on in the local property market? Whose playing at The Pub on the weekend? What local causes do we all need to get behind?

Overnight, all this was gone. And while the internet is great at giving us national news and celebrity gossip, there is still nothing that can replace a printed weekly newspaper as the only source of local news gathered by local journalists. This was evident in January this year when I received a call from a guy called Neil who was part of the Economic Development Group in the Burdekin.

He told me he loved what we do and implored us to start a similar publication in his region, assuring me we would have strong support from the local community.

Editor’s Note

I passed him over to our publisher Bec Douthwaite, and after months of discussion, it was decided that we would launch a new publication called Burdekin Life.

The new newspaper will have a very similar format to this one, but of course it will be entirely local to the Burdekin, with a full-time journalist living in the region.

For the past few months our team has been contributing to its launch and we are all heading there on September 28 to personally deliver and present the first edition.

For many of the team, the launch has involved considerable effort and planning –a whole new newspaper has been designed, advertising spots have been filled and one member of our team has moved up to the region to be Burdekin Life’s new journo.

As we celebrate this newspaper’s third birthday this week, it is exciting to now be embarking on a fresh challenge, one that will take commitment and dedication from everyone involved.

Thanks to all the team, and especially our publisher Bec who continues to back her dreams and bring us all along for the ride!

COAST TRAVELS FOR CHARITY

What began as a 4,500-kilometre bike trek from Brisbane to Adelaide has become an East Coast expedition, with Hiranuma Kaoru deciding to continue and cycle to Cairns.

Initially beginning in January, Hiarnuma left his Brisbane home for Melbourne, raising funds for Guide Dogs Australia.

Completely solo, Hiranuma is using a non-electric bike, with all his belongings strapped to the frame, including his tent and sleeping bag.

After completing the Gold Coast Half Marathon in July, he decided to take on the 2,000 kilometres to Cairns.

“I think I’ll overcome new encounters and experiences on my journey and enjoy everything while climbing a local bar,” Hiranuma explained. He has continued to share his journey over social media, taking snaps of locals along the way who have donated to his cause.

Stopping into M1 Cycles for the repairs, he was pleasantly surprised to have the repairs completed at no cost.

“’Well then!’ I said and donated the coast of the repair to Guide Dogs Australia.”

The team at M1 Cycles shared Hiranuma’s story on their social media and got him back on the road.

Last Thursday, July 27, he moved through the Whitsunday region, enjoying a sorbet from Bowen, and he is set to hit Cairns later this week.

Through his journey, Hiranuma has raised over $3,000.

“Do one thing every day that scares you” (anonymous)

In mid-July, he faced a big setback, with his bike faulting to its highest gear and not changing, while he cycled up a hill into Gladstone.

If you wish to donate, follow this link: bit.ly/3rTsVwx

Brisbane-based Hiranuma Kaoru has taken on the challenge of the East Coast of Australia, raising money for Guide Dogs Australia.

Photo: Facebook

Catastrophic Failure Sees Deaths Of Four ADF Personnel

Tragedy has struck at the heart of Exercise Talisman Sabre 2023 with an Australian Army MRH-90 Taipan helicopter suffering massive catastrophic failure and falling into waters of the Whitsunday Islands last Friday night, July 28.

The helicopter was manned by four Australian Defence Force members and crashed at around 11pm on Friday evening.

The men on board have been identified as pilots Lieutenant Maxwell Nugent, Captain Daniel Lyon, Warrant Officer Class 2 Joseph Laycock and Corporal Alexander Naggs.

All four men belonged to the Sixth Aviation Regiment, based out of Sydney.

The aircraft had been participating in night training operations, as part of Exercise Talisman Sabre 2023, when it was reported missing.

While some of the aircraft has been recovered, as of the time of going to print, the main frame and the four occupants have yet to be recovered.

Sadly, it is very unlikely the men will be recovered alive, with authorities discovering significant wreckage on Monday morning. Minister for Defence, Richard Marles spoke in a press conference on Monday, sharing news that the search efforts have

turned into body recovery.

“With every passing hour, it is now clear any hope of finding Captain Lyon, Lieutenant Nugent, Corporal Naggs, and Warrant Office Laycock alive has been lost,” he said.

By the evening of Monday, July 31, Mr Marles confirmed the deaths of the four ADF members.

“Our focus remains on bringing our people home to their families and supporting the Defence family through this difficult period,” Lieutenant General Greg Bilton said, Chief of Joint Operations.

The ADF continues to work closely with the Queensland Police Service (QPS) to aid the recovery efforts.

Superintendent Graeme Paine said since the determination has been made that the search and rescue is now a recovery mission, QPS is working to prepare a report for the coroner.

Cause of the accident remains unknown; however the entire fleet of Taipan helicopters was grounded following the accident.

Prior to this accident, the helicopter was meant to be discontinued from December 2023, in favour for American Black Hawks.

The long-awaited funding for the upgrade of training and search and rescue rooms at the Whitsunday Volunteer Marine Rescue (VMR) building has finally been approved thanks to the Federal government.

A passion project of Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, the $400,000 funding for upgrades was made as an election promise, one that he is now delighted to see come to fruition.

“Whitsunday VMR are an incredibly important local organisation in Dawson,” Willcox said.

“I’ve been working closely with the WVMR team to lobby Local, State, and Federal Governments for this funding, which is why I was so proud to be able to announce this funding as the Dawson LNP candidate in the 2022 Federal election.

“It has been a mammoth effort, from the amazing team at Whitsunday VMR, to the wider Whitsunday community, who have backed this project the whole way.”

Continued on page 30

Lieutenant Maxwell Nugent, Captain Daniel Lyon, Warrant Officer Class 2 Joseph Laycock, and Corporal Alexander Naggs are feared dead following a helicopter crash during a military training exercise in the Whitsundays.

Photo supplied

Whitsunday To Gold Coast Direct Flights Confirmed

Budget airline, Bonza, has announced a new flight route for the Whitsunday Coast Airport.

Before the start of summer, Whitsunday residents will be able to holiday in the Gold Coast, as well as the 10 other locations serviced by the Gold Coast Airport, which include Melbourne, Mildura, and Albury.

There will be two aircrafts to service the 11 locations, and while no exact times have been confirmed, the fares will range from $49 to $79 per person one way.

“Today’s announcement is about creating more depth in our network by connecting existing Bonza destinations with the Gold Coast and also the gateway from there to

Jubilee Pocket Siege, Crimes Downgraded

In May 2022 45-year-old Whitsunday man, Paul Malcom Henderson, barricaded himself in his Jubilee Pocket home, after local police attempted to make a welfare check.

A four-day siege at the Erromango Drive property unfolded, and police alleged that Mr Henderson armed himself with a compound bow and shot at police multiple times.

A 100-metre exclusion zone was established, and heavily armed Special Emergency Response Team officers were dispatched to the scene.

Following his arrest on May 23 at 7.30am, Mr Henderson was initially charged with six counts of attempted murder.

He has remained in police custody since his arrest, with his charges being reduced to two counts of malicious act with intent.

His case has now been adjourned until December 2023.

Northern NSW,” said Tim Jordan, CEO of Bonza.

“It is a huge boost for the economy and allows people in our existing destinations the opportunity to book an affordable flight to Gold Coast Airport and take a much-deserved holiday or long-awaited visit to friends and family.”

The airline says there will be additional and new destinations that will connect with the Gold Coast and those will be revealed when the time is right.

“We are absolutely delighted to have this route,” said Craig Turner, Chief Operating Officer of the Whitsunday Coast Airport.

“We have been working for over two years with a variety of airlines to secure this route for the Whitsundays.

“It aligns perfectly with domestic and international connectivity, with the Gold Coast being one of the biggest destinations, and now people can pop up to the Whitsundays for a few days on holiday.”

ON THE BEAT

Theft Of Excavator And Trailer, Collinsville

An individual has stolen an excavator and a trailer from a business compound in Collinsville overnight on July 30.

Entry was gained into the fenced compound by damaging a padlock on the gate.

The machinery stolen included a yellow coloured 2008 model Komatsu excavator (track) registration number 44319C and a 2008 model Auswide pig trailer, registration number 870 PQX.

Banning Order Enforced

A 19-year-old woman was charged with breaching a banning order, after at-

tempting to gain entry into a number of licensed premises within Airlie Beach.

She had previously been issues with a banning order and is excluded from licensed premises.

She will now appear before the Magistrates Court in relation to breaching the banning order.

Dangerous Drugs In Licensed Premise

Three men were found by police in the bathrooms of a licensed venue in Airlie Beach, at 1.15am Saturday July 29. Police allege that the men were in the process of consuming dangerous drugs, suspected to be cocaine.

Two

Drink Driving Across The Region

A 22-year-old Bowen woman was intercepted on Waterson Way with a blood alcohol level of 0.54 per cent, at 3am on July 29.

At 12.50am on July 29, a 22-year-old Mount Julian woman, who has a provisional licence with a zero-alcohol limit, returned a reading of 0.36 per cent. Both women will front the Magistrates Court in relation to these charges.

Water Deliveries

Did you know?

Whitpro has a new truck and tank and can now deliver 15,000L of drinking water to properties with good access

Enhance the flow of your H2O! Whitpro provides fully licenced potable water deliveries, pumping 1000 litres-per-minute directly into your tank or pool. We also supply tanks, pumps and fittings and can deliver the tank to your property.

Water delivery is available 7-days-per-week.

of the men have been charged, and an investigation will be conducted into the third.

New locations announced for the Whitsunday Coast Airport, opening up holiday routes just in time for summer.

Photo supplied

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Simple yet stylish sofa with a relaxed and casual feel. Built on a solid timber frame with well padded seats and back cushions. Timber legs give the sofa a solid and sturdy appeal. Price is based on Prince Fabric.

Maurice Sofa Collection

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Beached Humpback Whale Rallies Community

BY BRONTE HODGE

Dozens of locals rushed to the aid of a beached humpback whale last Friday afternoon, but despite dedicated efforts, the whale sadly died a few hours after it was discovered.

Conway locals noticed the whale on Friday morning, many of whom organised themselves with shovels and buckets in an effort to get the mammal back to water.

Jubilee Pocket locals, Ti Hokins and family, were enjoying a day off when they saw the news on the Whales of the Whitsundays Facebook group.

With wife and daughter in tow, Ti attended the scene with two buckets and a shovel. They were some of the first people on the beach.

All the first responders had were two good buckets, one broken bucket, a serving dish, towels and shovels, which were all used in a desperate effort to save the whale.

“It was quite beautiful to see the community come together to help the whale,” explains Ti.

“The whale was groaning and grunting and blowing water from its blow hole, as well as flicking with its tail.”

The rescuers soon realised, however, that the tide was far out from the whale’s position, and Ti said it would have been a

“miracle for the whale to survive that long” waiting for the tide to come back in.

“It was alive for two hours, until it just stopped,” said Ti.

“Everyone kinda just realised at the same time that it had stopped moving or making noise.”

By that time, numerous community members and even representatives from ZigZag Whitsundays were on the ground, splash-

Whitsundays On Global Television

BY BRONTE HODGE

Setting up shop in the Whitsundays, Adventure All Stars has taken their cast members on some of the best adventures and offerings that are available in our beautiful part of the country.

Participants are from across Australia, and each raised in excess of $10,000 for charity which was then rewarded with a trip-of-alifetime with Adventure All Stars, with all proceeds to go to Australian charities.

For many of the participants, this is a first taste of Airlie Beach, with them getting the chance to try some of the best adventures that are on offer.

“Part of the catch is that everything’s a surprise,” explained one contestant, AJ from Melbourne. AJ is a teacher back home, and is living with ADHD, acting as an ambassador from ADHD Australia.

“We didn’t know we were coming to Airlie Beach until last Tuesday when we got sent our flight tickets.”

Nissy, another participant, travelled from Sydney and says she has found her time in the Whitsundays refreshing.

“I think everyone in Australia must come here for a holiday,” she said.

“The kids will enjoy it, the friends will enjoy it. It is such a great environment to be in, and it’s all about peace, love and harmony and I am very grateful to be a part of this.”

Nissy was approached to participate due to

her own philanthropic endeavours, namely her own charity, Wiping Tears, an organisation supporting those experiencing financial hardship, homelessness, poverty, and limited access to health and medical resources and education.

Meanwhile, fellow cast member, Leanne, has a daughter who was diagnosed with ADHD, and she is now raising funds for ADHD education for schools, teachers, and the public.

“We did a light plane ride, which was absolutely amazing, they did a few tricks that had my stomach, but it was an awesome experience!” she said.

“We also did water biking, which was really peaceful, and a jet boat ride. That was like a mad house on steroids in the water!”

Funds from the Whitsunday episodes will go towards ADHD Australia, Heart Support Australia, Leukaemia Support Queensland, Mindfull Aus and Two Two One Mental Health Charity.

The Whitsunday episodes of Adventure All Stars make up three episodes of the upcoming season, which is set to air in 2024.

ing the whale and towelling it.

“It was heart-warming to see everyone drop everything to come down and do anything to help the whale,” said Ti.

“Even afterwards, when we were leaving, there were streams of people coming down to the beach to help where they could.”

To report a sick, injured, or dead whale, ring 1300 130 372, and advise of its location, a description of the whale and a description of injury or situation.

The Great Barrier Reef Park Marine Au-

thority will then access and make a plan of action.

Until authorities arrive at the whale, it is best to splash water over the whale and lay damp towels over its skin to keep it cool, and keep dogs and loud crowds away from it to minimise stress.

Teen Models For CQ Rescue

The 2023 RACQ CQ Rescue Talent Search has concluded, with a massive effort raised by the participants for the vital service.

Organised by Brooke Hargrave, owner of Brooke Lee Modelling, the event was backed-up with the chance to be discovered by an international modelling agency.

“This year’s event attracted about 40 competitors and raised more than $33,000 for RACQ CQ Rescue, bringing the total amount raised in the last nine years to about $200,000,” explains Brooke.

Taya Rush raised $13,028.50 for the cause and was crowned the Overall Charity Princess.

She held a popular charity golf day earlier this year, which raised $11,000 in total.

Runner up for the competition was Charlotte Nielsen who raised $7294.50 for the service.

“I’m so proud of all the contestants and their families as it was an incredible effort this year to raise this record figure of $33,000,” said Brooke.

“We’ve been holding the talent show for

nine years now and year on year the donation to CQ Rescue has increased, so we are so thrilled to be able to contribute to such a vital service which has touched the lives of so many people in this community.”

Australian Director for Miss World, Deborah Miller and Top Model International, Sienna-Rose Jerak attended the competition and awarded two contestants, Annabelle Munt and Chelsea Hore, into the Top Model Queensland State Final in 2024. The even was primarily a fundraiser as well as a talent search, Brooke said, and each entrant over the age of four had paid an entry fee or raised the entry fee and above through sponsorship and fundraising activities.

CQ Rescue Talent Charity Princess Taya Rush and Runner Up Charlotte Nielsen with Brooke Hargrave and RACQ CQ Rescue crew office Ben McCauley

A massive humpback whale beached itself last Friday morning. Photos supplied

Cast and crew of the newest season of Adventure All Stars filming in the Whitsundays this past week. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge

Chamber

Allan Milostic, President of the Whitsunday Coast Chamber of Commerce

With the events season well underway and gathering steam, our region comes alive with iconic events and festivals. Congratulations to the Triathlon club for a hugely successful weekend – packed with visitors and contestants.

The Whitsunday running club has also run (no pun intended) its Running Festival in mid July with the trail festival to follow.

With the Great Barrier Reef Festival followed by Airlie Beach Race Week and Hamilton Island Race Week coming up – the visitation and exposure that these events bring to the region is incalculable. We sincerely thank the organisers and volunteers – the entire region benefits from your efforts.

These regional events depend on local business support and financial contribution. Our local businesses community plays a big role in investing in our community for everyone’s benefit. As a thank you, be sure to support those businesses with purchase, a social media shout out, online review, or refer your friends as they help make these events come to life.

Another way you can support local businesses is by nominating them in this year’s Whitsundays Business Awards. The Chamber, in partnership with Tourism Whitsundays, seeks nominations for the 2023 Whitsundays Business Awards across five award categories.

The awards are open to members of the Whit-

War Effort Remembered At Bowen RSL

sunday Coast Chamber of Commerce or Tourism Whitsundays, and you can nominate in more than one category. Nominating is easy – all you have to do is provide a 250-word statement on the business and share links to their website and social media accounts. Nominations close Monday 21 August. Visit our website to learn more and good luck with your nomination.

This year, the Chamber has undergone extensive redevelopment and expansion, and we now invite you to be part of it. One of the major outcomes is our new membership model. It aims to provide unmatched opportunities to drive advocacy and connectivity for small business, commerce, and industry in the Whitsunday region. Visit our website and join today!

Our next Chamber event will be held 10am-12pm Wednesday 16 August in Proserpine. Pop Up Chamber – a new initiative – will be an informal gathering of business owners and the Chamber team.

Feel free to pop along at a time that best suits you, learn more about business in the region, get up-todate on Chamber developments, share your view on regional business priorities, and grab a coffee.

The theme for this Pop Up Chamber is ‘Chamber membership: What’s in it for you?’ This event is free and open to all Chamber members and the broader Whitsundays community.

Visit our website more information.

Veterans in Bowen have gathered at the Bowen RSL last Thursday, July 27, to commemorate the 70th Anniversary of the Armistice of the Korean War.

Veterans of the Korean War Bill Barty and Garry Kirk attended the service with their family.

Both men are the only two surviving veterans of the Korean War in Bowen and were joined by ex and current military personnel from Townsville.

Mr Barty was a part of the 2nd Battalion of the Royal Australian Regiment, while Mr Kirk served in the Navy.

They were both presented with certificates of thanks for their service.

Veteran of Korean War Garry Kirk with his wife Edna and family. Photos supplied

Veteran of Korean War Garry Kirk presented Bowen RSL with memorabilia of his time on HMAS Bataan in Korea 1950-1952

Immediate Past President John Eyles presents Korean War Veteran Bill Barty with a certificate of thanks

Veteran of Korean War Bill Barty standing behind his wife and with his family

Discover Opportunities With Whitsunday Christian College

In the age of ample decisions for what to pursue after high school, Whitsunday Christian College is providing all the tools for students to discover their work ready or tertiary options and gain relevant experience before graduating.

Beginning the tertiary and industry education journey while in Year 10 allows students plenty of time to discover their options and discover what they wish to pursue after graduation.

At Whitsunday Christian College students are shown pathways for whatever industry or tertiary education they wish to pursue.

Having partnered with TAFE Queensland, Binnacle and Skills Generation, the College is able to host certificate training for students, as well as sign on for SchoolBased Apprenticeships with local business for students.

This is compounded with internal onsite certificate facilitators who are able to offer certificates in Workplace Skills, Sport and Recreation and Engineering, which leads into a certificate III in Aviation.

“We can facilitate learning through Distance Education providers, if a student wants to do a specialised subject, as well as

partner with Registered Training Organisations to deliver a desired certificate,” explained College Principal Kylie Langshore.

The College also has a good relationship with James Cook University, often hosting representatives of the university from different faculties, and transporting students to university open days and industry workshops.

No matter the pathway that students decide to pursue for tertiary education, Whitsunday Christian College is able to facilitate relevant and valuable certificates or pre-requisite education.

The College is deliberate in providing personalised learning that allows for close, nurturing learning opportunities for students, where the teacher is able to closely monitor the education and wellbeing of each of their students within the classroom, providing necessary support.

“What these supportive classrooms offer is a very personalised approach to learning, particularly in our Senior years,” said Mrs Langshore.

The College has a dedicated Senior Path-

ways Coordinator, Mrs Phoebe Lam, who oversees senior students as they navigate their tertiary and industry options, and shares with them relevant news, opportunities, and industry trends.

This level of dedicated care begins in the early stages of the College, with the specialty, Get Ready for Prep Program that helps prepare the youngest learners for Prep.

“Kindergarten children are invited to join in a two-hour familiarisation session every Thursday with their parents, so by the time they’re ready to start school next year, they’re well-adjusted to the school environment, they know their teachers and other children, and are less anxious about this significant transition,” said Mrs Langshore.

The seamless nature of the Prep to 12 education stages, means that children can move through Foundation, Junior, Middle, and Senior phase with appropriate transition, care and targeted support. Encouraging and growing young people of faith and character, who are capable of achieving personal excellence is what Whitsunday Christian College is committed to, and the myriad of exciting and varied pathways on offer support each and every student, promoting their strengths and their passions into an exciting profession following their graduation.

Whitsunday Christian College invites you to explore what they have on offer and experience true community. Book a tour today!

Partnering with Busy At Work, student Mabel Gudes has signed up for a School-based Traineeship with City Beach.

Senior students at the James Cook University UniX Senior Excursion, sampling university life and courses. Photos supplied

The Whitsundays in Newcastle

With TW Marketing Manager Laura Knipe

Councillor Column

With Councillor Michelle Wright

As Councillors, we deal with a broad range of issues but one of the more rewarding is planning for the needs of young people in our community and advocating to help deliver positive outcomes.

This week the second phase of our Bonza Newcastle campaign draws to a close. We launched this twophase campaign to entice the residents of Newcastle and the Hunter Valley to holiday in The Whitsundays with the direct Bonza flights.

There are approximately 1.3 million people living in the Newcastle and Hunter region and we knew that enticing them to visit the Whitsundays would make huge impact to local tourism.

Over the past few months, The Whitsundays has been splashed across billboards at the Newcastle Airport, and Newcastle buses, and information about our region has been sent directly to inboxes and filled social feeds across Newcastle and the Hunter.

If there’s someone in that region who hasn’t heard about The Whitsundays by now, I’d be surprised! Our partners at Newcastle Airport have surveyed 1000 passengers and awareness of the Newcastle to Whitsundays route doubled during the campaign.

It’s been great to see our members jump

at this campaign with 26 local businesses involved, from accommodation providers, transport, tours and experiences. We’re absolutely thrilled that these businesses see the value in this new market, like we do.

As part of the campaign, we’ve also put together, with the assistance of many of our members, The Whitsundays Wildcard Weekend – a competition to win one of four long weekends in The Whitsundays. Entrants go into the draw to win a long weekend in The Whitsundays focusing on adventure, relaxation and exploring the Great Barrier Reef or enjoying island luxury.

Each weekend includes return flights from Newcastle to Whitsunday Coast Airport, accommodation, one or two day tour experiences and return airport transfers.

If you know anyone in the Newcastle/ Hunter regions, make sure you tell them to enter via our website: https://www.tourismwhitsundays.com.au/bonza/whitsundays-wildcard/

The Visitors Just Keep Coming To Bowen

The school holidays are over but the number of visitors in Bowen has certainly not slowed down.

Winter is traditionally the busiest time of year for the tourism industry in Bowen and the numbers keep getting higher.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said there was a significant increase in the number of visitors to the Bowen Visitor Information Centre in July, compared to last year.

“We had a record month in July last year and then had a record day and record month in June this year,” she said.

“Once the Queensland and NSW school holidays finished, we thought we might see a slight reduction in the number of visitors.

“This has certainly not been the case as we welcomed more than 6500 visitors in July this year. The visitors just keep on coming.”

At the time of going to print, the team at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre

were still finalising the July numbers but Ms Abernethy said she expected the increase to be about 15% in July, compared to the same month last year.

“Bowen really is the hidden gem at the top of the Whitsundays. We are overwhelmed by the number of people discovering this piece of paradise,” she said.

The Bowen Visitor Information Centre offers an extensive range of merchandise and local produce and is also a booking agency for accommodation in Bowen and the greater Whitsundays region as well as tours to the islands and Whitehaven Beach.

I represent Council on the Bowen and Collinsville Youth Action group (BACYA), which meets quarterly with lead stakeholders, businesses, and educators working in or with the youth of Bowen and Collinsville and surrounds.

We are currently working on a project aiming to have 150 conversations with young people aged 10-20 years and have their answers recorded to give an indication of what our region’s youth are needing in our communities.

These conversations and the feedback we gather from our young people will provide us with the real data that will validate why we are working towards a certain project or why advocacy is needed on different issues.

We can’t pretend to know what life is like for our region’s youth so these informal conversations will allow us to better understand youth experiences in our community better.

Also, another project that is currently underway is the ‘Choose Collinsville’ Town

Centre Upgrade which has commenced and, weather permitting, should be finished early September.

The works will create new irrigated garden beds, shade trees, disabled car parks, street furniture and include a new line marking, asphalt, and re-seal of the Main Street.

Works completed to date include installing the conduit for garden irrigation, the removal of hedges near Nugent’s Food Store, concreting of the hedge areas that have been removed and installation of new seating and bins.

In the fortnight ahead, Council will commence digging new garden beds. This will involve small work sites taking approximately 3 days per garden bed, moving through the street, minimising impacts on any one business for extended time. Hopefully the works cause minimal disruptions, and the end result will be a bright streetscape for Collinsville Main Street.

Illegal dumping and littering are a major problem in our region. This behaviour leads to significant environmental issues which negatively impact our communities, ecosystems, and overall quality of life.

The unsightly waste not only diminishes the natural beauty of our surroundings but also poses significant health hazards and threatens wildlife.

In the past six months alone, Council have received over 61 illegal dumping reports and have removed a whopping 336,477 litres of illegally dumped waste and litter across the region, which has a substantial cost to Council and ratepayers.

It is more important that we all follow safe waste management practices in

order to protect our environment for future generations. If you witness acts of illegal dumping, we ask that you inform Council via email at info@ whitsudnayrc.qld.gov.au or phone on 1300 972 753 so that we may stop this behaviour.

For more information about waste management in our region, head to our website www. whitsundayrc. qld.gov.au

Trudy Starkey from Bowen Tourism and Business with Kate and Jay Locke from Terrigal, NSW who are among the thousands of visitors making their way to Bowen this winter. Photo supplied

Chief Economist Comes To Town

It’s not every day you get an insight into regionally specific economic data from an individual who has a direct line to the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA).

Luckily for local residents, PRD Whitsunday is bringing this level of information to town when they host their second Annual Property Research Night next week.

Featuring special guest speaker Dr Diaswati Mardiasmo, familiarly known as ‘Dr Asti’, the event will inform the audience about key topics such as interest rate rises, inflation, and cost of living.

Dr Asti is PRD’s Chief Economist and an RBA Liaison Partner who attends quarterly meetings with the RBA and has a deep knowledge of the inner workings of Australia’s central banking system.

“She has her finger on the pulse and is highly regarded in the industry,” said Chief Executive Officer of PRD Whitsunday, Annette Neil.

“Better still, she delivers economic data with a personality, everything she says is relatable and easy to understand.

“Taking on feedback from last year, we are also making this event less high level, a bit easier to understand if you are not closely following economics.”

This year Whitsunday Regional Council

Economic Development Manager, Gary Warrener, will also be speaking at the event and he will be accompanied by Mayor Julie Hall and Council CEO Warren Bunker.

Guests are invited to listen to presentations from both Dr Asti and Mr Warrener, with the opportunity to ask questions afterwards.

“The issues they will be discussing effect everyone,” said Ms Neil.

“We are regional and are very passionate about our region, but a lot of information that we see in the media comes from capital cities.

“Having something that is locally relevant, that’s regional and specific to the Whitsundays is vital, so you know that what we are talking about is real information that can make a difference in our community.”

Ms Neil said that providing this type of public service is at the heart of the PRD mentality, where the ‘R’ in PRD stands for ‘research’.

“This event is not about making sales or selling you anything,” she explains.

“It is about informing the community and giving you the opportunity to have more knowledge on topics that matter to you.”

With the aim of making the Property Research Night a firm fixture on the annual event calendar, Ms Neil says that she hopes many people will attend.

“This is a rare opportunity to see someone of this calibre come to the Whitsundays,” she said.

The event is gold coin donation, and all proceeds will go directly to the Tiny Homes Project.

There will be free nibblies provided and a licenced bar on site with the opportunity to network with other community members before and after the event.

WHAT: Annual Property Research Night WHERE: Reef Gateway Hotel Function Room

WHEN: Wednesday, August 9 from 6pm COST: Gold coin donation

Heronvale Rural Fire Brigade Receives All Terrain Firefighting Upgrade

The Heronvale Rural Fire Brigade has welcomed a new piece of equipment into their fleet.

The new ATV and attached trailer will aid the volunteer fire fighting contingent to better fight and manage hard to reach locations, that the regular fire truck would be unable to service.

An official Open Day was held in honour of the new additions and Councillor Michelle Wright spoke to the community about Whitsunday Regional Council’s valued contribution.

“I am proud that Council recognised the need to support the Heronvale Rural Fire Brigade and allocated $20,000 through our special projects funding towards the new ATV,” she said.

“The Heronvale Rural Fire Brigade has been a pillar of strength in our community, tirelessly dedicating their time, courage, and expertise to protect and keep our residents safe.”

On the day, the ATV was officially named, by children from the community.

“A great morning had by all,” said Gavin Maxwell, 1st Officer of the Heronvale RFB.

“Congratulations to the Brigade and welcome Heronvale 35 aka ‘Rainbow Duck Fire Truck’ to the growing fleet of ATVs in the region.”

Heronvale Rural Fire Brigade welcomes new additions, the ATV and trailer, to combat fires in all terrain.

Photo supplied

Rob Ferguson, PRD Business Consultant, Dr Asti, PRD’s Chief Economist and Annette Neil, Chief Executive Officer of PRD Whitsunday at last year’s event. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

Councillor Michelle Wright attends the event.

Photo supplied

OUR WHITSUNDAY

HAVE YOUR SAY: WHITSUNDAY COAST AIRPORT MASTERPLAN

NEWS IN BRIEF

Bowen

Amenities Upgrade

Works commenced on Monday 31 July to create new amenities in the Bowen Cemetery and expand our existing facilities in Hansen Park.

Existing toilet blocks will remain open until the new upgrades are completed. The old infrastructure at Bowen Cemetery will be dismantled early September.

We are excited to unveil the new services, which will also include a beautiful mural on the expanded features at Hansen Park – stay tuned!

We apologise for the inconvenience of the necessary works, please respect safety fencing and pedestrian signage on-site so we can get the job done efficiently!

A variety of fun at your local library!

Author Chat with Natalie Stockdale

We look forward to welcoming local author Natalie Stockdale for a chat.

Natalie will share inspirational stories from her latest book “Campfire for a Woman’s Heart”, the second book in her Campfire for the Heart series. This is a free event with light refreshments available. Bookings are essential by calling your local library.

Chair Yoga at Cannonvale Library!

This month at the Cannonvale Library, a certified yoga teacher will guide you through the basics of chair yoga: gentle stretches seated in a chair and also standing postures.

When: 10am to 11am, Monday 21st & Monday 28 August 2023

Cost: Free

We will highlight the importance of gentle exercise for well-rounded health and well-being. We will address how to align the breath with movement.

Like other forms of exercise, seated yoga may also help improve mood, your confidence and relieve anxiety and depression.

Please call Cannonvale Library on 4846 9400.

Whitsunday Regional Council is undertaking a review and update of the Whitsunday Coast Airport (WCA) Master Plan 2015.

The Master Plan is used to strategically guide the development and expansion of the airport and a review is practical following the recent and significant growth in passenger numbers and aircraft traffic.

what’s on - proserpine entertainment centre!

Grigoryan Brothers - This is Us - 26 August 2023

Acclaimed guitarists Slava and Leonard Grigoryan have created a suite of music inspired by 18 objects personally selected from the National Museum of Australia’s vast collection, which traces our diverse and complex history.

Soweto Gospel Choir - Hope - 3 September 2023

Hope is an all-new concert by 3-time Grammy®-winning Soweto Gospel Choircelebrating songs and anthems from the Freedom movement of Nelson Mandela’s South Africa, back to the Civil Rights Movement of Martin Luther King’s 1950’s America.

The Alphabet of Awesome Science - 15 September 2023

Join professors Lexi Con and Noel Edge (the Word Nerd and the Science Freak) for a thrilling voyage through the alphabet – where great big chewy sesquipedalian words inspire mind-blowing scientific surprises.

To book visit the Proserpine Entertainment Centre website or call (07) 4945 0405.

Council is looking to determine if the infrastructure solutions proposed in the 2015 Plan remain relevant, or require reconsideration.

Chief Operating Officer Aviation & Tourism, Craig Turner, said its about understanding what we need now, in five years and in ten years.

“That could be international

freight, parallel taxiways or an expansion of the runway,” he said.

“We’ll wait to be informed by the experts as to what we need but planning is key, we want to be ahead of the game and have a duration where we can grow into the airport & infrastructure.”

Mayor Julie Hall said an important part of this process is developing a clear understanding of the aviation related needs of the broader Whitsunday community.

“This is a community owned council asset and we want to hear from our residents and local businesses as to what they want the airport to be,” she said.

“We have multiple avenues for providing feedback and asking questions so I encourage our community to put their ideas forward for consideration.”

CHOOSE COLLINSVILLE TOWN CENTRE UPGRADE

Council workers have been busy at work on the Collinsville Town Centre Upgrade since commencing on 17 July. To date, works have included:

• Saw cut the seal within the road to install the conduit for garden irrigation

• Removal of hedges near Nugents Food Store

• Concreting of hedge areas that have been removed

• Installation of new seating and bins

Furniture was installed ahead of schedule due to rain impacting the digging of new garden beds. In the fortnight ahead, Council will commence digging new garden beds (subject to weather).

This will involve small work sites, moving through the street, minimising impacts on any one business for extended time.

wca consultation details

Have your say on the future of the Whitsunday Coast Airport!

Visit our online engagement portal yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au to complete the survey or you can provide a written submission to the Master Planning Facilitator, Glenn Robinson, at glenn.robinson@airportsupport.com.au

Glenn will also be available in person to meet with any interested parties at:

• Proserpine - Fresh Fields Shopping Centre - Monday 14 August 9am12pm

• Cannonvale - Whitsunday PlazaTuesday 15 August - 9am to 12pm

• Bowen - To be confirmed - keep an eye on Council’s Facebook page and Your Say Whitsunday website.

Small work sites may result in temporary loss of car park adjoining individual works sites and possible pedestrian detours around work areas. Works will involve machine noise and safety fencing around works sites. Check out the progress photos at yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au

CAPE EDGECUMBE WALKING TRAIL UPGRADES

We are undertaking works to upgrade the Bowen Cape Edgecumbe Walking Trails commencing in early September. Segments of the trails have been weathered and need upgrading to make the trail safer and more attractive for users. 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. Dates for each stage are below (weather pending):

Stage 1 - Horseshoe Bay - Future Project

Stage 2A - Near Rotary Lookout & Stage 2B - Rotary Lookout to Murray Bay - 2 October to late November

Stage 3 - Rose Bay to Murrary Bay - 4 September to Early October

Stage 4 - WW2 Radar Site - Future Project

Stage 5 - Murrary Bay - Future Project

For further details visit yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au

Find out about upcoming prjoects by visiting our online engagement portal - Your Say Whitsunday!

Off With A Bang! At The Friday Night Fireworks

Browse The Night Markets

Embracing the festival-themes of community, creativity and raising awareness for the environment, the Friday evening Night Markets are a treasure trove of home-made wares, recyclable arts, and cottage industry delights.

This evening, thousands of people will gather on grassy banks, smooth rocks and sandy outcrops to watch the Friday Night Fireworks erupt into vibrant pops of colour over the bay on Airlie Beach Foreshore.

Celebrating the official beginning of the Great Barrier Reef Festival, the fireworks are a crowd-favourite and a symbol of exciting times ahead – with an action-packed event calendar ready to impress over the whole weekend.

Sponsored by the Whitsunday Regional Council, the fireworks are set-off from across the bay, blasting up into the night’s sky and visible from many local vantage points.

Join the party on a rooftop bar, gather the

MAXIMISE YOUR FRIDAY NIGHT!

kids on a picnic blanket or walk to a grassy knoll at the edge of the lagoon – wherever you are, feel connected and liberated by the fireworks that are there for everyone and can be seen by everyone.

“Watching the fireworks is definitely one of my favourite parts of the whole event,” said Great Barrier Reef Festival President, Margie Murphy.

“It is the moment when all the plans and preparations are in place and everyone gathers together, excited for a fabulous weekend ahead!”

WHAT: Friday Night Fireworks

WHERE: Airlie Beach Foreshore

WHEN: Friday, August 4 TIME: 8pm

• Come down early to watch the Lantern Parade from 6pm

• Make sure you check out the Immerse Art Installation

• The kids will love the fun fair rides and side show alley

• Bring your picnic blanket for the open-air movie – Finding Nemo

A part of the Great Barrier Reef Festival since 2018, the Night Markets were quick to become a popular event, attracting over 60 stall holders and hundreds of browsing attendees.

Shrouded by a starry night sky, the markets are lit-up like a beacon, drawing festival-goers from along the Foreshore into the bustling arms of Eat Street and the dozens of market stalls.

Artist, Margaret Burgess, has been a stall holder since its inception and says that the addition of the markets has drawn bigger crowds to the festival year by year.

“It’s a great atmosphere at the markets,” she said.

“Plus, it gives people the opportunity to sell their wares, it’s wonderful to see so many hand-made products for sale that are also environmentally friendly.”

From hemp fabric clothes and linen by Tracey Robb to cow bone carvings by Proserpine local, Mel Burns, and of course Margaret’s reimagined China and sea glass jewellery, there is plenty to see and explore

at the markets.

Discover unique locally made pottery, hand-made fragrant candles and soaps, gemstones, and original marine memorabilia.

There will also be Face painting for the children, Great Barrier Marine Festival merchandise for sale plus LED light fun products to get the party started.

WHAT: Night Markets

WHERE: Airlie Beach Foreshore

WHEN: Friday, August 4 from 5pm

DON’T MISS!

The Nature Celebration Area – Discover 12 different nature stalls promoting reef conservation and raising awareness for the environment

Saturday Street Fun

TTraffic will be halted on the bustling main street of Airlie Beach this Saturday and the steady flow of vehicles will be replaced by a plethora of colourful community events for the Mackay and Whitsunday Life Saturday Street Fun.

A hive of activity for festival goers to enjoy, the day will kick-off with Fraser Ford Revvin’ the Reef Car Show.

Car enthusiasts from all over the region have been busy polishing their ‘pride and joy’, ready to display amongst a sea of other cars, bikes, and trucks.

Beautiful Pin-Up Girls will wander through the crowd with Rock and Roll music completing the nostalgic ambiance of yesteryear.

Continuing with the leisurely yet dynamic pace, there will be continuous activities throughout the day.

Roving Street Performers will surprise and amaze, Wildlife Whitsunday will bring along native wildlife and there will be live music throughout the day.

Attendees are welcome to head to the nearby Art Expo and cast their vote for the People’s Choice award, or cruise down to the Airlie Beach Hotel for a lazy afternoon listening to some Classic Rock Legends.

Hungry? Head down to the Whitsunday Foodservice Eat Street where you’ll find a hot bed of food vans selling a range of

Street Parade Surprise!

delicious treats.

Then, at 4pm the main street transforms into a racetrack for the Medibank Magic Mile, where children, adults, and everyone in between are invited to participate. Enjoy the cheers from onlookers as you dash by at top speed and challenge yourself in this exciting event.

The day finishes with the iconic Rotary Street Parade, a colourful and worthy finale to an action-packed event.

WHAT: Saturday Street Fun

WHERE: Airlie Beach Main Street

WHEN: Saturday, August 5 – all day!

DID YOU KNOW?

You can submit photos from the day for a chance to be published in this newspaper. Simply scan this QR code to take part.

With its origins dating back to well before the Great Barrier Reef Festival’s inception, the iconic Rotary Street Parade is an intrinsic part of Whitsunday culture and a cornerstone of the festival.

Welcoming a new sponsor, Ray White Whitsundays, this year is set to be one of the best ever events, as dozens of colourful floats form a lively procession up the main street of Airlie Beach.

Ex-vice principal, Merewyn Wright, has been a Rotarian for many years and was the Street Parade organiser for six of those years.

“My favourite part of the event was always seeing everyone lined up on the day,” said Merewyn.

“It takes a lot of organisation behind the scenes so seeing it all come together in reality is really gratifying.”

Businesses, schools, community groups

Merwyn organised the event for six years

DID YOU KNOW?

The Street Parade started before the Great Barrier Reef Festival

and friends are all welcome to join the parade and each entrant is charged with creating a unique float that captures the imagination and theme of the festival. Previous years have seen up to 50 different floats participate and many children love dressing in colourful home-made oceanthemed outfits.

Lollies are offered to spectators; bubbles are blown into the air and sparkle in the sunlight and music bursts out from vehicles as they glide by at snail’s pace.

This year, Merwyn has hung up her organiser’s cape and instead she is becoming one of the judges.

“It’s nice to have gone full circle and still be part of something I love,” she said.

WHAT: Street Parade

WHERE: Airlie Beach Main Street

WHEN: Saturday, August 5 at 5pm

Saluting The Sun

Coming back to their roots, Sun Salute will be cruising into Airlie Beach this weekend for the Great Barrier Reef Festival.

Formed in the cool snow of Falls Creek in Victoria, duo Jarrah Kurth and Tane Tokorangi moved up north to the warm climate of Airlie Beach and created the Sun Salute band with its seven other band members.

“Over the course of the last few years, we grew into a seven-piece band, as we began playing records and needed more instruments,” explains Jarrah, who is on the drums for Sun Salute.

Together, they called Airlie Beach home for five years, before each of the members made their way south, some to Byron Bay, others the Sunshine Coast, and some in Melbourne.

But the energy of the music never left them, with the members regularly travelling for shows and to record new music.

“When we do come together and play, it’s a great energy on

stage,” said Jarrah.

“We love playing together and we’re all great friends, and I think people can feel that.

“It’s a special special energy, and we’re just stoked to come back to Airlie Beach.”

On the line-up is Tane Tokorangi, with melodic vocals and guitar, Airlie Beach local Dylan Hammond on bass and vocals, Saia Latau with the keyboard and vocals, and Nestor Galapia with percussion.

Chris Booroff on guitar and trumpet, and Chelsea McNeiley on saxophone, are also welcome additions.

Sun Salute have become a synonymous staple on the reggae, roots, and funk scene, with eclectic electric tunes and the perfect vibes for a Saturday night performance.

Returning to Airlie Beach almost yearly, this will be the first time the full band performs for the Great Barrier Reef Festival.

“We began in Airlie, it’s where we grew the band and we’re excited to be able to play in

front of lots of familiar faces,” said Jarrah.

And lucky for Airlie Beach, Sun Salute will perform one or two of their unreleased upcoming tracks, for the crowd.

“It’s all funky reggae, good vibes, good energy, and good connection,” Jarrah said.

“To get everybody together to be able to write new music, yeah it’s a bit challenging, but this just makes it so much more special to be able to spend time together in the studio writing and playing, it’s a lot of fun.

“And everybody in the band is a songwriter, everyone’s got creativity.

“So many ideas and so much inspiration to bring to the music, we’re never short of any ideas musically, it’s just getting together and getting it recorded.”

WHAT: Sun Salute for Beats On the Beach WHERE: Airlie Beach Foreshore, Beach Stage

WHEN: Saturday 5 August, from 6pm

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR MUSIC?

“You know, if you had to describe it in one word, it would be connection; connecting with the audience, the audience connecting with us on stage, with the music, and connecting with yourself.”

Let Me Entertain You!

DID YOU KNOW?

You can book a VIP area at Point Bar and receive a free cocktail and nibbles with an ocean view.

Opening Night Madness

Along with the official opening of the Great Barrier Reef Festival, be sure to head down to the main stage to see famous headliner Reece Mastin, who will be followed by popular duo Salt and Steel. Bringing high energy and good vibes to the opening night, quality live music sets the pace of what’s to come.

Reece Mastin gets the crowd pumping with his pop-rock tunes, while Salt and Steel offer edgy raw music that is perfectly paired with rock.

WHAT: Reece Mastin and Salt and Steel

WHERE: Beach Stage, Airlie Beach Foreshore

WHEN: Friday August 4, from 6.30pm

Classic Legends Take On Airlie Beach

Relive the glory days with the Airlie Beach Hotel, hosting the fantastic rock trio of

Dellacoma Rio, Shaleena Bain and Tara Graham.

Full of heart pumping tunes and classic anthems, these rockers embody the best names of the 80s and 90s, in a production full of thrills and spills.

WHAT: Classic Rock Legends of the 80s and 90s

HERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel

WHEN: Saturday August 5, 2.30pm to 5pm

Beats On The Beach

With the chill tunes of Sun Salute, the Beats on the Beach is the best of Saturday night music.

Joining the Beach Stage is The Wild Sky, with classic blues beats that thrum through their soulful tunes, Mish ‘n’ Possible, with her powerful vocals and fantastically uplifting sound, and Flying Double Front Kick, Airlie Beach’s own rockers.

WHAT: Beats on the Beach

WHERE: Beach Stage, Airlie Beach Foreshore

WHEN: Saturday August 5, from 6pm

The Chats and Cosmic Psychos

The party continues on Saturday night with The Chats and Cosmic Psychos, in an unforgettable duo performance that brings young and old together under one roof.

Cosmic Psychos bring the beer-fuelled Australia punk rock, with absolutely no class, and even less cares.

While The Chats are the up-and-comers on the Aussie punk rock scene, bringing with them some ‘shed rock’ that rivals Cosmic Psychos.

WHAT: The Chats and Cosmic Psychos

WHERE: Magnums Club

WHEN: Saturday August 5, from 8pm

Chill In The Park

What a way to send off a mammoth weekend of live music, family fun, and unstop-

Coral Sea Marina Resort Lantern Parade

pable adventure!

Chill in the Park is one of the final events on the Great Barrier Reef Festival agenda, rounding out the event with legendary music and local artists.

The line-up includes The David Flower Band, with folk-rock music that will leave you swaying to the beat, and Erin Rues, this Airlie Beach local is an absolute powerhouse vocalist with an attitude to match.

Don’t miss Didgera, with their groovy tribal rhythmic beats of jazz and reggae, and Sam Bannink, creating an atmosphere perfect for a Sunday afternoon of sun with his guitar and soulful songs.

Send off the 2023 iteration of the Great Barrier Reef Festival with this chill afternoon of some of the best classic Airlie Beach hits.

WHAT: Chill in the Park

WHERE: Airlie Beach Foreshore

WHEN: Sunday August 6, from 1.30pm

Mish ‘n’ Possible will bring eclectic beats and uplifting tracks Reece Mastin headlining Friday night will set the scene for this summer loving festival

This three-piece ensemble, The Wild Sky appears as the rock and roll blues centre of the Beats on the Beach lineup

Airlie Beach local, Flying Double Front Kick brings us home, with alternative rock tunes and beats to match

Revvin’ With The Pros

Family Fun For A Festival Send Off

Old school fun is on the cards for this year’s Team Kerr Family Fun Day!

TOP TIP!

Speeding to the Whitsundays for a whirlwind visit before his next race on the Queensland Race Way is professional racing car driver, Nick Lange, who will be attending the Fraser Ford Revvin’ the Reef car show on Saturday.

A previous Whitsunday local, Nick lived in Airlie Beach for 15 years and loves returning to the region to give back to the community and say thank you to his local sponsors.

On the day, he will be parked outside KC’s Bar and Grill with his brand-new Chevvy

now,’ he said.

“To be rubbing shoulders with the best of the best is pretty awesome!”

Nick started his career in the early 2000s and worked his way up to driving in Production Car Racing, competing in the Bathurst 12-hour endurance race.

He has also worked as support crews for the V8 Super Cars and travelled the country for the sport.

He is now looking forward to bringing it home for the Whitsunday community and

With a jampacked collection of events and activities running throughout the day, every member of the family will racing around to give everything a go!

What is on offer?

Check out the Eco Barge Sculpture tent and chat with representatives from the Master Reef Guides and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority who will be there all day alongside a Daydream Island display about the living reef.

The Ngaro and Giya Traditional Owners will also be hosting events, teaching everyone the art of storytelling, weaving, ochre painting and the perfect way to throw a

Grab your treasure hunt card, and get stamped at each and every stall for your chance to win in the treasure chest prize draw, where kids will learn about the envi-

There will be a pop up bar for the adults from 12pm, as well as live music and food trucks, a perfect little adults retreat during the day of fun.

ronment in a fun way.

Try your hand at the always popular donut eating competition, get involved with the circus workshops and other free kid’s activities.

Be sure to stick around for the foam party, sandcastle competition and good old sack and three-legged races which are sure to cause laughter and smiles for all involved, with the Recyclable Regatta to round out the fun.

WHAT: Team Kerr Family Fun Day

WHERE: Airlie Beach Foreshore

WHEN: Sunday August 6, from 10am to 2pm

Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine

Happy to be a support act

Proudly supporting the 2023 Great Barrier Reef Festival. And when you belong to one of Australia’s biggest banks, good things happen with your banking too. Feel good about who you bank with. Find out more. Call 4948 3599 or search Bendigo Bank Cannonvale.

Professional racing car driver, Nick Lange. Photo supplied

Get Pumped For The Magic Mile

DID YOU KNOW?

You can register for the Magic Mile on the day! Stop by the Main Street Info Tent between 2pm and 3pm to sign up!

Get your running shoes on, the Medibank Magic Mile is back for the 2023 Great Barrier Reef Festival!

Hosted by the Whitsunday Running Club, the event takes place along the Airlie Beach Main Street.

No matter the ability, everyone is encouraged to give it a go, with cash prizes up for grabs for the adults.

“It’s always a great day,” said Andrea Farley,

Sail Away With The Recyclable Regatta

Get your swimmers on, it’s time for the unforgettable Whitsunday Escape Recyclable Regatta.

A fan favourite for the Great Barrier Reef Festival, the Recyclable Regatta tests patience, determination, and communication, and is always a laugh for spectators and other competitors.

High-sea pirate shenanigans are sure to ensue, with all sorts of community groups and school groups getting in on the fun of the event.

And what have you got to do?

from the Whitsunday Running Club.

“The lead up is always exciting, and it’s so cool to be able to run down the main street.

“I want everyone to give it a red-hot crack and try and win some cash!”

WHAT: Medibank Magic Mile

WHERE: Airlie Beach Main Street

WHEN: Saturday August 5, 4pm

TOP TIP!

Plastic drums and bamboo poles make excellent floats and frame for a raft, as well as your milk, juice, water and soft drink bottles!

Make your raft out of recycled materials and find a crew of up to three.

Now, all you’ve gotta do is paddle it around the course and be sure not to lose a crewmember!

Register your raft at greatbarrierreeffestival.com.au.

WHAT: Whitsunday Escape Recyclable Regatta

WHERE: Airlie Beach Foreshore

WHEN: Sunday August 6, 2pm to 3pm

Bringing The Reef To The Festival

With Crystal Lacey

Having spent the better part of 18 years working closely with the ocean and tourism, Crystal Lacey has perfected her expertise, skills, and knowledge, and is using it to positively influence the Whitsundays.

Stepping onto the Great Barrier Reef Festival committee in 2022, 2023 has seen her take the helm as Environmental Coordinator.

Tasked with enhancing the festival to encompass the environmental aspects of the reef, Crystal has helped curate fantastic immersive and educational opportunities for festival attendees to experience some of the very best of the Great Barrier Reef in a time of utmost attention to the Reef.

A Whaley Good Art

line up, with indigenous leaders opening the Festival on Friday evening and leading many of the education classes and workshops.

In particular, Master Reef Guides will be playing a big part of the upcoming festival, leading various educational workshops and opportunities.

Crystal Lacey has been highly influential in ecotourism and edu-tourism, stepping into the role of Environmental Coordinator for the Great Barrier Reef Festival

With almost 50 submissions, the inaugural Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Show is shaping up to be an exciting addition to the event this year.

“We are bringing the Great Barrier Reef to life for the Great Barrier Reef Festival,” Crystal explains.

“Enhancing the Festival in these key spaces, from idea and concept to the actual event.”

Closely partnered with Reef educational bodies and eco-tourism operators, the Great Barrier Reef Festival provides in depth knowledge and education for community members and festival attendees.

Crystal was also integral with incorporation of indigenous leaders into the Festival

“This is the biggest collection of Master Reef Guides ever to be arranged,” Crystal said.

Crystal initially approached the Great Barrier Reef Committee in 2022.

“I wanted to bring the reef to the festival so I said, ‘this is what we should do and this is how we can do it’.”

Crystal has an extensive history of tourism, marine boating, and ocean activities, and has moved into eco-tourism, conservation, and education, through her business, Little Fish Tourism.

She was instrumental in the Welcome to the Whales event last month and a driving force behind pushing for the Whitsundays to become an accredited Whale Heritage Site, with the World Cetacean Alliance.

The Great Barrier Reef Festival theme for 2023 is to celebrate the whales, which goes hand-in-hand with gaining this accreditation.

IMMERSIVE BOUTIQUE TOURISM PRODUCT, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCES DEVELOPMENT CONSULTANCY

Thursday

Embracing the broader festival theme, the art show ‘Grandeur of the Humpback Whales’ invited submissions comprising of whales, the reef, the Whitsundays and the environment above and below sea level.

Organiser, Leigh Skead from Creative Connections Whitsundays, said she was “totally floored” by the number of entrees.

“We pulled it together at the last minute and so many local artists came out of the woodwork,” she explained.

“We are very pleased with the response, and it is great to see young kids right through to people who could command thousands of dollars for their artwork participate.”

The Art Show is being held at Beach Plaza, next to La Tabella Restaurant on the Airlie Beach Esplanade, and will be open throughout the festivities.

Build upon community connection, the judging for the best artwork is entirely ‘people’s choice’ with everyone encour-

aged to come and take a look at the art before casting their vote to select a worthy winner.

There is only one overall winner announced and attendees are also invited to purchase raffle tickets to support ongoing art events in the region.

Show

A Whale of A Time!

DID YOU KNOW?

The Art Competition is judged by the people – your vote counts!

WHAT: Art Show

WHERE: Beach Plaza (next to La Tabella)

WHEN: August 3-6

OPEN TIMES: Thurs 9am-3pm, FriSat 10am till late, Sun 10am-4pm

Taking pride of place at the heart of the Immerse Art Installation are an eight-metre mother whale and her three-metre-long calf.

Creating these majestic art pieces is renowned and highly respected regional artist, Margaret Burgess, who has dedicated “months and months” of work to lovingly re-create these two enormous sculptures.

Constructed with a timber spine and cane ribs, every join of the tough and durable centre is individually drilled, its design aiming to create a sculpture that can endure and shine at events for years to come.

Its outer ‘skin’ is made from cotton spandex, with the humpback’s striking black and white colours finishing the overall effect.

Margaret has been an artist for over 30 years and moved into the spotlight with her Plastic Boutique series of installations that were exhibited in Canelands Shopping Centre in Mackay.

She regularly hosts inspiring workshops

and is the driving force behind many environmentally relevant art initiatives throughout the region.

“The Great Barrier Reef Festival ticks all my boxes,” she said.

“Creativity, the environment – I just love being part of it all!

“It’s an intensely busy period but it’s also so rewarding to stand back and say ‘wow!’

“I also love working with the rest of the team, we are always growing and evolving and aspiring to create something spectacular.”

The whale component of the Immerse Art Installation will be transported from Midge Point to Fairy Tree Park on Friday. Immerse 2023 is supported by the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland.

WHAT: Immerse Art Installation

WHERE: Fairy Tree Park

WHEN: 4-6 August

Two of the impressive submissions entering into the Art Show Competition. Images supplied

Respected regional artist, Margaret Burgess, with the whale sculpture at her home studio. Photo supplied

The Whales form an integral part of Immerse Art Installation

Keeping Our Waters Safe

With funding now in place, work on the $400,000 upgrades to the Volunteer Marine Rescue (VMR) building are expected to commence in October and be completed by mid-2024.

The upgrades will expand the training and operations area so that it is nearly three times its current size, giving crews a larger working space when conducting search and rescue missions.

“The police often come here and use our facilities during a search and rescue mission” said VMR President, Paul Martin.

“Previously we’ve had very little space and when the VIP’s drop in to take a look at things it’s been bedlam!”

Mr Martin said he is thrilled with the announcement and that it will completely transform operations and capabilities for the VMR.

The space upstairs will be

VMR: The Future At State

BY RACHAEL SMITH

While Whitsunday Volunteer Marine Rescue (VMR) are excited about the upcoming upgrades, they are also concerned by the changing political landscape that they believe is creating an uncertain future for VMR’s right across the state.

President of the Whitsunday VMR, Paul Martin, explained that the state government is introducing a new funding model that he believes could hinder the operation of our local VMR.

expanded into two large training rooms which can be sectioned off to hold smaller meetings when required.

“Once it is complete, we are looking forward to opening it up and inviting the public in to come and take a look,” said Mr Martin.

Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, said that with the level of boat use in the Whitsunday region, he feels this is a vital piece of infrastructure that is well-deserving of an upgrade.

“If you’re out fishing, snorkelling, or just relaxing, it’s comforting to know that if something goes wrong, the team at VMR are there for you,” he said.

“This is an important community development project, and as a local, I’m proud of the amazing work these volunteers do, often in high pressure situations, to support our region and keep our waters safe.”

There are plans for VMRs across Queensland to become state funded and all revenue streams are set to come through the government which means any localised fundraising avenues could become redundant.

Mr Martin said that to date, the Whitsunday VMR has been given very little detail on the funding changes and this uncertainty is causing the organisation to feel vulnerable.

Whitsunday VMR needs $500,000 per year to operate.

This sum comes from sponsorships, memberships and call out fees. They have 1,500 members, each paying $100 per year.

Mr Martin says that without this money the VMR would cease to operate in the way it currently does.

“We’ve got it organised and it’s working – why change it?” he said.

“We own our two vessels, and we look after the maintenance and insurance – with this new funding model will the state government purchase the vessels or are we expected to donate them to the state government?”

With lots of unanswered questions, Mr Martin says he is looking forward to a meeting with other Queensland VMR Presidents on August 19, where he hopes they will get some answers.

“The NSW model is run by the state, and it took 18 months to implement – here in Queensland we’ve been talking about it for five years!”

Whitsunday VMR was the first VMR in the state and will be celebrating 60 years next year.

As one of the larger and more established facilities it is operating successfully, fully supported by its independent funding streams, 1,500 members and over 150 dedicated volunteers.

Mr Martin says that there are undoubtedly other smaller VMRs in the state that are struggling and would definitely benefit from state funding, but that the larger sites that are functioning well should be left alone.

“I am worried that when people find out that we are becoming state funded, our costs will go up because

people will think we are getting paid by the government,” he said.

“We could lose our sponsors overnight, but we might not see any of the funding for five years!”

“We may also see membership loss and cuts on little things like hosting open days.”

When asked how he would like to see a state government funding model work, Mr Martin explained that he would prefer to see a lease agreement in place.

“A leasing agreement for our vessels that would take care of the maintenance, fuel and projected replacement costs could work,” he said.

“But all this would take away our flexibility and result in the rise of overall costs that we can’t forecast.”

With the Whitsundays boasting the highest number of boat registrations in Queensland, this issue is at the heart of the community and it is clear that more information is desperately needed to ensure the future and stability of one of our most valued local institutions.

Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, with representatives from the Whitsunday Volunteer Marine Rescue team. Photo supplied

President of Whitsunday VMR, Paul Martin with volunteer Dick Filewood.

Photo credit: Rachael Smith

Weekly production figures

Weekly production figures

Wilmar Sugar Proserpine Mill

Weekly production figures

Wilmar Sugar, Proserpine Mill, Week 7, ending 29 July 2023

Week 7, ending 29 July 2023

Throughput for the week was 57,167 tonnes, which was below budget. This was predominantly due to start up issues in the first part of the week Factory performance had largely settled by the second half of the week.

Throughput for the week was 57,167 tonnes, which was below budget. This was predominantly due to start up issues in the first part of the week Factory performance had largely settled by the second half of the week.

The new pan 3 is expected to be fully commissioned by the end of next week, which should see production rates lift further.

The new pan 3 is expected to be fully commissioned by the end of next week, which should see production rates lift further.

Value Added With

Whitsunday House Painting Specialists

Formerly Superior House Painting Specialists, we have adopted the local name Whitsundays House Painting Specialists as we continue to service our community.

We only use the best Dulux and Trugrip paints and products that deliver a durable finish.

Comments:

We wish to thank those employees and contractors who worked through the Proserpine Show public holiday, as this resulted in Friday and Saturday being the highest production days for the season to date.

Comments:

Showers that commenced on Sunday afternoon caused a stop in cane supply from Tuesday through to the end of the week.

We wish to thank those employees and contractors who worked through the Proserpine Show public holiday, as this resulted in Friday and Saturday being the highest production days for the season to date.

Showers that commenced on Sunday afternoon caused a stop in cane supply from Tuesday through to the end of the week.

CCS results are trending above budget, at 13.25 The highest CCS sample was 15.43 from a rake of plant KQ228 in the Lethebrook productivity district.

repairs.

CCS results are trending above budget, at 13.25 The highest CCS sample was 15.43 from a rake of plant KQ228 in the Lethebrook productivity district.

Up to 63mm of rainfall was recorded across the region. As a result, only 13,255 tonnes of cane were able to be processed during the week.

While the average CCS for the week still came in above budget at 13.64 CCS, this was down on the previous week due to the wet weather.

There was a collision between a car and a cane train over the weekend. Fortunately, no one was injured. However this is a timely reminder to always check for rail traffic before crossing the cane rail network.

In the current economic climate, we know that money matters.

So, we are excited to offer affordable Painting Packages to add value and protection to your home for years to come.

Our total preparation systems are suitable for all surfaces, including an etch primer, undercoat sealer before applying two topcoats (three coat system minimum).

These are some of our basic Painting packages on offer:

• Roofing and guttering.

• Eaves and fascias.

Up to 63mm of rainfall was recorded across the region. As a result, only 13,255 tonnes of cane were able to be processed during the week.

There was a collision between a car and a cane train over the weekend. Fortunately, no one was injured. However this is a timely reminder to always check for rail traffic before crossing the cane rail network.

The logistics team is continuing to liaise with the harvesting sector to determine when a resumption of harvesting may commence.

Now that school holidays have commenced across Queensland, we urge parents and guardians to remind their children about the dangers of playing on or near the cane rail network

Now that school holidays have commenced across Queensland, we urge parents and guardians to remind their children about the dangers of playing on or near the cane rail network

Our operations team utilised the forced downtime to carry out maintenance and

The highest CCS sample for the week was 15.25 from a rake of ratoon KQ228 in the Lethebrook productivity district. As always, please remember to use your train brain and take care around our cane rail network. Our cane trains are working around the clock, seven days a week.

The logistics team is continuing to liaise with the harvesting sector to determine when a resumption of harvesting may commence.

Jed Page Cane Supply Manager Proserpine Region

Jed Page Cane Supply Manager Proserpine Region

Our operations team utilised the forced downtime to carry out maintenance and repairs

While the average CCS for the week still came in above budget at 13.64 CCS, this was down on the previous week due to the wet weather

The highest CCS sample for the week was 15.25 from a rake of ratoon KQ228 in the Lethebrook productivity district.

As always, please remember to use your train brain and take care around our cane rail network. Our cane trains are working around the clock, seven days a week.

Having worked as a Painter for 25 years, we know the importance of listening to our customers.

Everyone wants a great deal. We specialise in creating a competitive package tailored to every budget and need. We are licensed (Painting, Decorating and Waterproofing), including full insurances with QBCC and public liability.

We don’t take shortcuts and offer a workmanship guarantee on everything we do.

• Walls, windows, and doors.

• Concrete surfaces such as driveways, patios, and paths.

• Decking, pergola, fencing and gates. Ask us about our previous work and to arrange a free quote.

Call Kathryn on 0466 648 626. These prices will never be repeated!

Jed Page

Cane Supply Manager Proserpine Region

Tourism Whitsundays Networking

Photo credit: Bronte Hodge

In 1960, “Mischief” was Queensland’s fastest displacement hull racing boat, achieving a speed of 69.862 mph (112.4 kph) at Home Hill; an accomplishment recognised and recorded by the Australian Power Boat Association. “Mischief” was built especially for Clement Cecil Walton, (known as Mick) by Lewis Bros, Taren Point, Sydney.

For the boating enthusiasts amongst our readers - the boat had an Iskerdenan camshaft which is still regarded as one of the best in high performance racing. It also had an aircraft inertia starter motor which made it tricky to start. Other features included a centre-mounted 283 cubic inch Corvette engine with a capacity for speed; an upward angled propeller shaft and props placement to the rear of the transom.

The quest for speed in Unlimited Class Racing Skiff meant both vessels and driver were under great stress. At all times, the occupants had to use their weight and fight the torque (turning effect) generated by the engine.

Light and graceful in design, “Mischief” was a powerhouse, reaching unofficial speeds of 72 mph (116kph) over the quarter mile. The boat occasionally became

airborne in great 20-to-30-foot leaps, jarring the two occupants from side to side as the skeg re-entered the water. Idling was not one of her talents.

Mick always carried a spare propellor because when “Mischief” leapt out of the water, she would spin the prop shaft.

Mick went through 14 co-pilots in one season until Charlie Law and Billy Trail came along. They both suffered broken ribs and were sometimes thrown out at high speed. Mick would leave the skiff on its trailer and one of the co-pilots, either Charlie Law or Billy Trail, would put XXXX cans up the twin exhausts. But according to Charlie, it was larrikins who would stuff empty beer cans up the exhaust pipes just to see how powerful an engine could react. Who the larrikins were, we will never really know. Not surprisingly, when the engine built up enough pressure it would fire up and shoot cans out of the pipes at great rate of knots.

Mick raced all over Queensland including Hutchinson Lagoon (Burdekin), Lake Elphingstone and Groper Creek and Shingley Beach where locals were treated to the thrills and spills of fast boats in action. “Mischief” and Mick chalked up

many successes, for example, on December 8, 1960, “they” won the Power Boat Associations’ Queensland Short Couse Displacement Championship in the unlimited cubic inch shift class hull section.

Over the new year weekend of 1961, Mick won the Queensland State Championship comfortably in the final heat. During an elimination heat, one of the water-cooling hoses flew off but Charlie Law, who was riding with Mick, forced the hose back into position and held it there – they were a great team.

Over the years, “Mischief” and its crew certainly lived up to the name.

But for now, more than six decades later, “Mischief” is no longer making mischief! It rests in Stage Two of the Proserpine Historical Museum after being bequeathed from the estate of Mick’s wife, Dawn. “Mischief” has been carefully restored by museum volunteers and is waiting for you to have a peep into our museum where you can admire this piece of boating history and marvel at the talent of its owner and co-pilots.

Story and photo courtesy of Proserpine Historical Museum and Mr Jim Walton.

BOWEN S SUMMERGARDEN CINEMAS

“BARBIE” (PG) 115mins. Adventure/Comedy

To live in Barbie Land is to be a perfect being in a perfect place. Unless you have a full-on existential crisis. Or you’re a Ken.

Stars: Margot Robbie, Hari Nef, Ryan Gosling

“MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE-DEAD RECKONING PART ONE” (M) 163min. Action/Adventure

Ethan Hunt and his IMF team must track down a dangerous weapon before it falls into the wrong hands.

Stars: Rebecca Ferguson, Tom Cruise, Pom Klementieff

“NO HARD FEELINGS” (MA) 105mins. Comedy

On the brink of losing her home, Maddie finds an intriguing job listing: helicopter parents looking for someone to bring their introverted 19-year-old son out of his shell before college. She has one summer to make him a man or die trying.

Stars: Jennifer Lawrence, Andrew Barth Feldman, Laura Benanti

“SPIDERMAN: ACROSS THE SPIDER-VERSE (PG) 136mins. Animation/Action/Adventure

Hope

As I sleep the world will turn, As I live I will learn. It’s better to jump and take a chance, Rise to the moon and stars and dance.

Never give up on your dreams, As hard and hopeless as it seems.

When you’ve lost courage and hope, You feel you can no longer cope. That’s the time it will turn, As the tide changes you will learn.

You have the courage and are strong., You have a place in the world you belong.

When dark clouds form, There is always sunshine after a storm.

Reach out and take a bit of support, Have a hug now there’s a thought. For there will be times when you will fall, You’re only human after all.

Search for the hero inside yourself.

By Tania Reid

Readers’ poetry can be emailed to bronte@mackayandwhitsundaylife. com Submissions should be in the body of the email, not as attachments.

Miles Morales catapults across the Multiverse, where he encounters a team of Spider-People charged with protecting its very existence. When the heroes clash on how to handle a new threat, Miles must redefine what it means to be a hero.

Stars: Shameik Moore, Hailee Steinfeld, Oscar Isaac

GIG GUIDE

Friday 4th Aug

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

• Paradiso: Nick De Gregorio (7-10pm)

• KC’s: live music (8pm-late)

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

• Grand View Hotel, Bowen: Sam McCann (from 8pm)

Saturday 5th Aug

• The Pub: Rock Legends of the 80’s & 90’s (2-5.30pm)

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

• Paradiso: Simon Briley (7-10pm)

• KC’s: live music (8pm-late)

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

• Grand View Hotel, Bowen: Upmarket Business (from 8pm)

Sunday 6th Aug

• Paradiso: Aaron Saxon (1-4pm)

• Grand View Hotel: Damon Leary (25.30pm)

• The Pub: Rock Legends of the 80’s & 90’s (2-5.30pm)

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

• KC’s: live music (8pm-late)

Monday 7th Aug

• KC’s: live music (8pm-late)

Tuesday 8th Aug

• KC’s: live music (8pm-late)

Wednesday 9th Aug

• KC’s: live music (8pm-late)

Thursday 10th Aug

• Paradiso: Aaron Saxon (6.30-9.30pm)

• The Pub: Acoustic Sessions, Andy Mammers Trio (6.30-9.30pm)

• KC’s: live music (8pm-late)

• Grand View Hotel, Bowen: Matt Scullian (from 8pm)

MOVIE REVIEW

Oppenheimer

This biopic film, brought to life by the enigmatic and creative Christopher Nolan, speaks to the darkness of nuclear weaponry and J Robert Oppenheimer, ‘the father of the atomic bomb’.

The film illuminates Oppenheimer’s tumultuous life, prior to him creating the two atomic bombs that catastrophically devasted the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki during the Second World War, and afterwards, faced with the consequences of his own creation.

Manoeuvring through his youth, audiences see Oppenheimer’s growth from being a student in Europe, to him as a professor in California, till his recruitment onto the Manhattan Project, the top-secret US project to build nuclear weaponry in Los Alamos, New Mexico.

Compelled through two different storylines, before the explosion that destroyed Hiroshima, and the 1950s court battle, where Oppenheimer’s political motivations were questioned, the audience is constantly bombarded with information, fantastic cinematography, and

WHAT'S ON

August

3 Fitter For Life Over 50’s at Bowen PCYC (Tues & Thurs)

3-6 Cruise Whitsundays’ Great Barrier Reef Festival

4 Self Publishing Basics Workshop, Cannonvale Library (registrations required)

5-6 No Hard Feelings screening at the PEC

6-7 Indiana Jones – Dial of Destiny screening at the PEC

7 Kinder Gym at Bowen PCYC (every Mon & Wed)

8 Fitter For Life Over 50’s at Bowen PCYC (Tues & Thurs)

10-17 Airlie Beach Race Week

10 Fitter For Life Over 50’s at Bowen PCYC (Tues & Thurs)

intimate playacting.

Oppenheimer was praised as the hero of the Second World War by the Americans, for protecting their American democracy, which, in turn quelled his political motivations, once seeing the absolute destruction of the bombs.

This political pacifism is the fuel to the fire of these court hearings.

The court hearings are the titular settings of the film, where, in the 1950s, Oppenheimer is arguably the most famous American scientist, but he is being questioned as a security risk, harbouring communist ideals, which will lead to the downfall of the American way of life.

He is namely opposing Lewis Strauss, the chairman of the Atomic Energy Commissioner, who has secretly been working to bring Oppenheimer down.

Always discussing the consequences of

actions, this film leaves no stone unturned, no detail missed.

Oppenheimer is ultimately stripped of his security clearances as a member of the Atomic Energy Commission’s General Advisory Council, effectively bringing his career to an end.

One of the film’s concluding scenes portray Oppenheimer speaking with Albert Einstein, discussing whether or not he created a chain reaction that would ultimately destroy the entire universe.

Oppenheimer is showing in the Bowen Cinema from Friday August 11, and at Proserpine Entertainment Centre from August 18.

11 Scone Day from 9.30am, QCWA Hall

11-13 Barbie screening at the PEC

14 Kinder Gym at Bowen PCYC (every Mon & Wed)

16 Sailability Whitsundays from 9am at Whitsunday Sailing Club

17 Zonta meeting at VMR

18-20 Barbie screening at the PEC

18-20 Oppenheimer screening at the PEC

19 Ben Bolt Cup Race Day, Bowen Races from 11am (entry fee)

26 Grigoryan Brothers performing at the PEC

27-28 Meg 2: The Trench screening at the PEC

Movie

Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny (M)

Indiana Jones finds himself in a new era. Approaching retirement, Indy wrestles with fitting into a world that seems to have outgrown him. But as the tentacles of an all-too-familiar evil return in the form of an old rival, Indy must don his hat and pick up his whip once more to make sure an ancient and powerful artifact doesn’t fall into the wrong hands.

No Hard Feelings (MA 15+)

Maddie (Jennifer Lawrence) thinks she’s found the answer to her financial troubles when she discovers an intriguing job listing: wealthy helicopter parents looking for someone to “date” their introverted 19-year-old son, Percy, and bring him out of his shell before he leaves for college. But awkward Percy proves to be more of a challenge than she expected.

Barbie (PG)

To live in Barbie Land is to be a perfect being in a perfect place. Unless you have a full-on existential crisis. Or you’re a Ken. From Oscar-nominated writer/director Greta Gerwig (“Little Women,” “Lady Bird”) comes “Barbie,” starring Oscarnominees Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling as Barbie and Ken.

Oppenheimer (MA15+)

27-28 Oppenheimer screening at the PEC

31 – 4 Whitsunday Songwriter Festival at Yangaro Resort

September

1-2 Strays screening at the PEC

3 Soweto Gospel Choir performing at the PEC

9-10 Strays screening at the PEC

9-20 Gran Turismo screening at the PEC (various dates)

15 Alphabet of Awesome Science performing at the PEC

16-27 Cats In The Music screening at the PEC

Written and directed by Christopher Nolan, Oppenheimer is an IMAX®-shot epic thriller that thrusts audiences into the pulse-pounding paradox of the enigmatic man who must risk destroying the world in order to save it. The film stars Cillian Murphy as J. Robert Oppenheimer and Emily Blunt as his wife, biologist and botanist Katherine “Kitty” Oppenheimer.

Juggling political motivations and scientific ambition, Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer discusses the power of consequences and actions

It’s Always 5 O’clock At The Airlie Beach Hotel

The good times are coming to the Airlie Beach Hotel, with the Latitude 24 band cruising in from ‘Margaritaville’.

Blowing off the winter chill, this Jimmy Buffett tribute band will bring the ‘Bama Breeze’ and we’ll all ask ‘Why Don’t We Get Drunk’ to the summer vibes and smooth sailing.

The good chill atmosphere is not lost here, with Latitude 24 perfecting their craft since 2002.

Have your ‘Cheeseburger in Paradise’ and let all your worries wash away with some ‘Little Miss Magic’.

Latitude 24 is the passion project of Lionel ‘Lions’ Aitken, who started the band

as a fundraising project for children living with a disability.

Once endorsed by Jimmy Buffett, who regularly sent video messages for the fundraising concerts, the band morphed into an official Jimmy Buffett tribute.

He is joined by Alvin Rostant on the steel drum, Dan James as drummer, and Ben Westphal as lead guitar.

There is also Ashleigh Denning as backing vocals, Ben Deboer on the keyboards, and Collin ‘The Colonel’ Chapman on bass.

Since its inception, Latitude 24 has called Airlie Beach a repeat venue for a cruisy party.

“It’s all beaches, oceans, and the tropics,”

explains Lionel.

“The vibes are right, the crowds are right, Airlie Beach is a great place to come to.

“Every knows the words, everyone sings along, it’s the whole Jimmy Buffett experience,” he said.

And don’t forget the special guest of Tumbling Dice – the Linda Ronstadt Tribute Show performing alongside Lionel and his Jimmy Buffett and the Coral Reefers energy.

Ashleigh Denning embodies Linda Ronstadt to the bone, playing to a ‘Different Drum’ and bringing the ‘Heat Wave’.

More than just a pretty face, Tumbling Dice ‘Hurt So Bad’, but believe that ‘Love

Is a Rose’.

Appearing on stage alongside Latitude 24, this won’t be a show to miss, so ‘How Do I Make You’ get to the Airlie Beach Hotel and have a ‘Livingston Saturday Night’. As we believe here, ‘It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere’, so have a ‘Lovely Cruise’ and let’s make a ‘Trip Around the Sun’. And as Lions says, “Just be there!”

WHAT: The Ultimate Jimmy Buffett Tribute Show with Tumbling Dice – the Linda Ronstadt Tribute

WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel

WHEN: Saturday, August 12 and Sunday, August 13, 2pm to 5.30pm

The inaugural Whitsundays Weddings Industry Networking and Fashion Show was a massive success last Sunday afternoon and evening, with over 40 excited almost-wedded couples attending the event.

There were a variety of industry professionals available to chat with guests, including wedding celebrants, venue managers, accommodation providers and stylists, providing a great introduction to some of the best wedding industry suppliers in our region.

The highlight of the event was the exclusive fashion show presented by DK Bridal, Whitsunday local bridal gown designer Dina Kriswanti. The latest and upcoming trends and predictions in bridal couture were showcased through DK Bridal designs, allowing attendees an up-close and personal look at the beautiful gowns.

With so much on offer, with some of the best wedding vendors, industry professionals and suppliers under the one roof, the to-be-married could easily discuss their proposed plans, trends, demands, and find answers to any other business questions they have.

Lionel ‘Lions’ Aitken knows how to put on a Jimmy Buffett show, that’s for sure

Drawing a crowd in Hawaiian shirts and good energy, Latitude 24 is a solid show on the Airlie Beach calendar Latitude 24 has even been endorsed by the one and only Jimmy Buffett.

Evolving over the years, Latitude 24 knows the very best of Jimmy Buffett and knows how to put on a show. Photos supplied

Coming together to meet with some of the best local wedding providers, professionals, and venues, the Whitsundays Weddings Industry Networking and Fashion Show.

Photo credit: Bronte Hodge

Raiders Take On The Bulls

RUGBY UNION

The Whitsunday Sportspark played host to the MRU Semi- finals on Saturday which saw Kuttabul take on Cities followed by Whitsunday Raiders taking on Moranbah bulls.

The clash between the Raiders and the Bulls was to determine who went straight through to the grand final on the 12th. The Raiders had an unusual training week due to the rain but were quietly confident

they could come away with the win. The game was going to be an arm wrestle for both sides and only a minute into it the bulls came up with a penalty to put first points on the board.

The Raiders could not seem to get their hands on the ball for most of the game but when they did, they looked good throwing it around, the scrums were strong and both sides found it hard to push over the ball.

With the wind behind them Moranbah took a further lead with a converted a try after 15 minutes.

It wasn’t until around the 30 minute mark that the men in green scored their own converted try to make it 7-10.

The score was to remain that way until around the 60 minute mark when the Bulls converted another penalty to take it to 7-13, not long after Niall Clancy converted a Raiders penalty to make it 10 -13.

The Raiders had momentum close to the Bulls line, with 5 mins to go, when the game was halted due to a major injury. The crowd were on the edge of their seats after the restart, when speedster Rhys Ward chased a grubber kick over the line, unfortunately it was judged to have gone out and the Raiders would have to take on the Kuttabul Camelboks at home next Saturday to move into the Grand Final, going down 10-16.

Contributed with thanks to Craig Spence.

Fred Quod Blast H20

SCORE 95

Sea Eagles Warriors Storm Cowboys Knights Rabbitohs Dragons Raiders

Liam Hillery Hillery Group

SCORE 92

Sea Eagles Warriors Panthers Cowboys Dolphins Rabbitohs Eels Raiders

Jason Mansfield Greater Whitsunday Vet

SCORE 98 Sea Eagles Warriors Storm Broncos Dolphins Rabbitohs Dragons Raiders

Harvey The Dog Whitsunday Mowers

SCORE 82

Sea Eagles Titans Panthers Broncos Dolphins Rabbitohs Dragons Raiders

Steve Pilcher Pilcher’s Mitre 10

SCORE 88 Roosters Warriors Panthers Broncos Dolphins Rabbitohs Eels Raiders

Pete Cook Flat Out Digging

SCORE 92

Sea Eagles Titans Panthers Cowboys Dolphins Rabbitohs Eels Raiders DIGGING

Brendan Better Built Sheds

SCORE 96

Sea Eagles Warriors Panthers Cowboys Dolphins Rabbitohs Dragons Raiders

Jason Winter Coral Cay

SCORE 95 Sea Eagles Warriors Panthers Cowboys Knights Sharks Eels Raiders

Connor Spence putting on a big defensive tackle. Supported by Waikato Nepia-Katipa, Peni Tuibre and Brayden Holloway. Photo credit: Hanny Spence Photography

Sea Eagles Seniors Blitz Magpies AFL

Whitsunday Sea Eagles travelled to Mackay Magpies on Saturday with Senior teams having a great day on field.

The sun was shining but it was definitely wet weather footy with the Magpies ground waterlogged from the week of rain. Sea Eagles Senior Men handled the slippery conditions better, to take home the win 46 – 25 and secure 3rd position on the ladder above Magpies, behind a tight tussle at the top between Saints and Swans.

Sea Eagles backline was superb with Nathan Packer, Ryan Lee, and Eden Wishart having plenty of the ball.

Reliable targets up forward Angus Blackwood and Brayden Wall gave Sea Eagles scoring opportunities throughout the game.

Despite the sloppy conditions Sea Eagles Senor Women flew in the first term keeping the opposition scoreless.

The second quarter saw Magpies make a strong resurgence and Sea Eagles worked hard to hold their advantage.

Sea Eagles were able to endure the attacks

Record Numbers

TRIATHLON

The biggest professional triathlon field in the event’s history competed in the 2023 Coral Sea Marina Airlie Beach Triathlon festival last weekend with Kurt McDonald and Radka Kahlefeldt winning the men’s and women’s races.

Whitsunday Triathlon Club President Michael Kimpton said over 250 triathletes competed in the senior and juniors events over the two day festival which received rave reviews from the visiting professionals who all indicated they were keen to return in 2024 as the race weekend continues to grow.

The 24-year-old Victorian, McDonald led from start to finish to defeat a top-class male field in a time of 1 hour, 51 minutes, 36 seconds for the 1.5km swim, 40km ride and 10km run Olympic Distance event.

2XU champion Jarrod Osborne made up almost two minutes on the winner in the run leg to finish second in 1.52.56 while veteran professionals Tim Van Berkel and defending champion Caleb Noble tied for third place in 1.55.51.

Kahlefeldt blew away the female field with stunning swim and ride legs to open a big lead and cruised to victory in 2.02.58 ahead of Cairns

Ironman 3rd place finisher Penny Slater in 2.06.38 and Chloe Hartnett 2.07.03.

In his first race as a professional triathlete rising Whitsundays star Dan McDonnell carded a top 5 finish showing he can make a quick impact in the top gun ranks.

Another rising start of the Whitsunday triathlon scene, Zane Devine, scored his maiden victory winning the male Sprint distance (750m swim, 20km bike, 5km run) event in an impressive time of 1.15.30 ahead of Jordy Staelen and John Thomas.

Maraa Luz Poblete took line honours in the female Sprint event blitzing the field in the swim leg to lead from the gun in 1.11.37 ahead of Mala Brooks and Chloe White.

and finish with a strong win 45 – 25. Lana Rademeyer put in a solid effort for the day pegging two goals whilst Cleo Dickie showed strong form through the midfield.

Cara Behnke also presented in the forward line to chalk up two great goals.

Sea Eagles Under 14s took it to a strong Magpies team in the performance of the year with every player contributing, however could not overcome the bigger Magpies outfit losing 6 - 21.

Sea Eagles Under 12s found themselves back on a wet deck for the first time in a while taking on the Magpies for the second week in a row.

After a cracking win against them last week, Sea Eagles could not keep Magpies from scoring in the final term and went down 15 – 17 in a muddy thriller.

This Saturday August 5 sees all Sea Eagles teams head for Bakers Creek with games starting from 9:15am.

Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Sea Eagles.

The Enticer event was won by Nick Beecroft (men’s) and Alicia McConaghy while the inaugural winner of the Stirling Edwards-Bland Perpetual Junior Encouragement Award was Tyrell McDowell for his determination and enthusiasm to get to the finish line at all costs.

Race director Kimpton said the weekend was capped off with a Champions Dinner at the Coral Sea Resort Ballroom on Sunday nigh twhere major sponsor and Coral Sea Marina Resort owner Paul Darrouzet confirmed they would renew their sponsorship of the event for 2024.

“These types of events do not happen without support from local business and this was the first year that Coral Sea Marina Resort became our naming sponsor,” said Kimpton.

“We had support from over 50 local businesses which has allowed the club provide amazing prizes for all events and we had amazing feedback on the quality of our race packs from all competitors.

“The aim of our small but dynamic Whitsunday Triathlon Club committee headed by Mark McConkey, Karen Maddock, Val Kimpton, Robyn Corrigan and Debra Childs is to continue to grow and expand the event to make it a highlight of the Queensland triathlon calendar.”

Senior Men Aaron Thompson

Senior Women Cleo Dickie

Senior Men Jake Turner. Photo Credit: Cody Fowler

Compete In Airlie Beach Triathlon

Photo Credit: Rachael Smith, Bronte Hodge and Korupt Vision

Airlie Bowls Report

BOWLS

hen you live in Paradise you certainly are not used to cold weather and rain, so no bowls was possible on Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons.

Friday afternoon saw a round of Men’s A Division between Manny Isgro and the up and coming very talented Harry Quad and, to everyone’s surprise, it was Harry Quad who won this exciting tussle 25-23

WSaturday morning Scroungers saw some exciting games - first round winners were Gary Kiff , Ash Warland , Steve O ‘Connell and our own John Askew.

The final was between Steve O’Connell and Ash Warland who needed 3 to win the last end and he did it again.

He has been winning everything lately and his form has been impeccable.

Sunday morning was the B Division 4’s with the final being played in the afternoon and it was the team ably led by David Ling, with John Fielding, Col Morris and Dennis Donaldetti inspirational with their victory.

Sunday afternoon had some very competitive bowlers vying for the prize, we welcomed Leonie Donnelly from Ballarat Victoria, Ken McAllister back again from Queenscliff, Victoria and Daryl Stumbles from Paradise Point Bowls Club Queensland.

They all played very well but it was Ken whom, with skipper Tony Whitehorn, and lead Janet Jacometti were the runaway winners of the day.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson.

Exciting Bowls Ahead

Wangaratta Bowls News BOWLS

There has been a lot happening this week in the world of bowls at Wangaratta.

On Tuesday winners were Bron Tolcher, Bruce Thomson, Brian Cassick and John Middleton whi defeated Keith Collins, Ann Kayser, Jo Paynting and June Walsh.

Runners Up were Roger Mumby, Brian Bellingham and Terrie Crozier who defeated Alan Pearson, Jan Dawson and Terry Nash. The jackpot didn’t go off.

BOWLS

et weather put rather a dampener on this past week with no Social Bowls on Wednesday.

This meant that we had a bumper turn out for Sunday’s Social Bowls.

We had visitors from Belmont NSW, Swan Hill Victoria, Eden in NSW, Airlie Beach and Sale in Victoria.

Bill Howell, Carol Crosbie, Bob Ross and Betty Nicolle defeated Arthur Griffith, Barry Zillmann, Caroll Smith and Nev Smith 33 - 19; Lee King, Bruce Uhe and Heather Brown defeated John Burnett, Philip Brown and Peter Warner 21 - 19; Col, John Anderson and Sandy Daffara defeated Alen Sanderson, Peter Lawton

Wand Cheryl Howell 19 - 16.

Champion of Champion Ladies Singles that was to be played at St Helens was postponed until August 10 and 11.

Best wishes for good bowls to Isaac Elliott and Andrew Bell who will be playing Champion of Champion Pairs at Marian this coming weekend.

Champion of Champion Ladies Pairs is to be played at Proserpine this week. Thanks to all who have worked so hard in preparing the green for this event.

It is unfortunate that last week brought rain and we are now hoping that the weather cooperates this week.

Contributed with thanks to Heather Brown.

Darts Report DARTS

We had our last club trophy contested on Sunday morning at the Airlie Beach Bowls Club, with The Players Club Captain the prize on offer for the players.

Round 1 results were for Premier League points, with the victors advancing to the knock out stages.

There were wins for Kam Reason, Art McMinn, Jamie Maher defeated Dom Friend in a sudden death play-off leg.

Gary Robbie got a bye as the defending champion Jamie Woods couldn’t defend his title on the day unfortunately, and Joe

Wilson defeated Andy Peel.

Dom Friend got a second bite of the cherry as the best loser from round 1, he played Gary Robbie in a playoff match to see which players would advance back into the competition.

Dom won that to face Jamie Maher yet again. It was another tight one, but this time Dom had a little too much for Jamie taking his place in the final winning 4-3.

Kam Reason defeated Art McMinn on the other side of the draw 4/3 to set up a match against Joe Wilson in the other semi final. Joe narrowly won that 4-3 to face Dom in

Then on Thursday, Men’s President and Green Keeper Mark hosted his special afternoon sponsored by Queens Beach Tourist Village with a full green. Thanks also to Le Sorelle and Arabon Seafoods who gave a donation.

Winners for the afternoon were Gary, Denise, Wallace, Glen and Linda Smith who defeated Bruce, John, Lauire and Sugar Brunker. Runners Up were V Richie, K S/ Collins, B Russo and P Donoghue who defeated T Roach, H Donoghue, L Danvers and J Paynting.

Winners for our Fun Friday afternoon were J Dawson and P Donoghue who defeated J Breakwell and A Vigar. K S/Collins and M Nesbitt defeated B Jackson and M Hyde, M McKezie, M Mead and J Middleton defeated R Dunell, H Donoghue and O Watson, C Cassidy, L S/Collins and C Taylor defeated L Knight, J Velden and K Baxter, Tracy, Ken and Karon defeated

Robyn, Chris and Jim. Resting touchers went to Ken M, Robyn, M Nesbitt, and J Dawson. The jackpot didn’t go off. Sunday winners came out on Rink 8. They were C Cassidy, M Loughhead, N Barlee and V Palmer who defeated C Bellingham, M Middleton, K Aykens and K Moriarty. Runners Up K Baxter, L Knight, I Wheeler, R Hyde who defeated P Breakwell, L Palmer, G Harvey and A Rolfe. The jackpot went off in the game between A Kayser, D Harris, T Crozier and F Wilman who defeated M Nesbitt, H Donoghue, P Madden and Pat Tracey.

Although not winning, our ladies put on a stirling performance at the District Champion of Champions at Alligator Creek on the week. Fely Duncan and Robyn Stitt were runners up in the A pairs. The winners being Noorla players Carla Pizzi and Carmen Mugica. Penny Warren was defeated narrowly by Carmen Mugica in the A Singles. Teresa Willshire played B Singles with 2 wins which will continue for a result in 2 weeks. Well done ladies representing the club.

We are playing for the Pat and Neil Tracey trophy this Sunday with self-selected triples which I am sure will be a great afternoon.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren.

this year’s Players final. Joe played some great darts all day, as did Dom, but great scoring power along with clinical doubling saw Joe lift his first trophy at the club to put a new name on the trophy.

Congratulations Joe on a well-deserved win.

Thank you to our sponsors Mika

Winners of the Men’s Presidents Day: Gary, Denise, Glen, Linda with President Mak Drummond Runners Up District Champion of Champion A Pairs: Robyn Stitt, Fely Duncan. Photos supplied

The B Division 4’s Champions. Photo supplied

Airlie Whitsunday Tattooing Airlie Beach and Master Butchers Whitsunday & MBW On the Barbie.

Contributed with thanks to Jamie Maher.

Dom Friend and Joe Wilson heading into battle, with Joe ultimately adding his name to some club silverware. Photo supplied

Bowen Golf Report

Wednesday’s competition was a single stableford event sponsored by Bowen Golf Club. Ladies’ winner on a countback was Julie May 32 points, runner up Leanne Swan 32 points. Men’s winner Perry Layton 36 points, runner up Chris Jackson 35 points. Saturday’s competition was the Men’s August Monthly medal. Winner on a countback was Jeff Jackson 70 nett, runner up Michael Mawson 70 nett.

Sunday was the ladies August Monthly Medal. Winner was Karon McKenzie 73 nett, runner up on a countback Penny Stewart 75 nett. Both competitions were kindly sponsored by Bowen Meat Supply and Queens Beach Motor Hotel. This weekend’s competition will be played on Sunday and will be a single stableford event sponsored by Bowen Golf Club.

Don’t forget to check the club’s Facebook page for this week’s dinner specials. Take-

Proserpine Golf Club Report

aways still available. Please call the club if you wish to book a table or place a takeaway order. Joker is worth $4000. Contributed with thanks to Grace Nott.

t was a rain affected week in golf. Michael Cragg won the Tuesday comp on a countback from Jim Cochrane on 33 points, Allen Roberts in 3rd place on 24 points. John Oates and Lyn Muller won the NTP’s.

Only 24 players ventured out on Thursday, Scott Mason won with a very nice 39 points, just one shot ahead of Gary Scotford and Rob Webb was in 3rd place on 36 points.

Jett Borghero won 2 NTP’s along with Brendan Spann and Alan Elsayed. Finbar O’Flynn showed some great form to win the Met Run on Friday with a massive 24 points.

Mick Hamilton in 2ndplace on 21 points and Karlene Lloyd completing the podium with 19 points. Matthew Muller won the NTP.

On The Whitsunday Green

This week’s 9-hole stableford saw Jimmy Millar come first place with 19 points, second was Terry Kimpton with 18 points and third place saw Michael Bond on a 17 point c/b. Friday’s stableford was a great effort from all. Taking first place was Craig Kennedy with 21 points, second with a 20 point c/b was Ryan Kenny and third Glenn Rees with 20 points. Great job gentlemen.

Sunday’s monthly medal was a great turnout which saw Justyn Durbin take the win with a 46 NET, second was Danny York with a 49 NET c/b and third place Tyson Flavel with a 49 NET.

Nearest the pin were John Shannon and Ben Doer.

This Sunday, August 6 will be an 18-hole stableford. tee off anytime.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Green Golf Club.

70 players competed in the 4BBB on Saturday, with Brett Bauer and Carl Goss led the field in with 45 points, ahead of Carl Goss and Bailey Hayward. Ann Gardel and Paul Gray finished in 3rd place with 42 points.

NTP winners: Di Chard, Jim Cochrane, Ann Gardel, Tim Deffner, Ryland Hensel and Jett Borghero.

Sunday saw Wilf Herweg hit some form, leading the field with 38 points. Danny Goody in 2nd place on 36 points. Pam Casey won the ladies comp on 32 points, narrowly defeating Tiina Randmae on a countback.

NTP winners: Scott Mason, Pam Casey, Jason Whitney, Penny Wardroper, Brad Fleet.

Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Golf Pro Shop.

Whitsunday Social Golf

GOLF

2 Whitsunday Golf Club members turned up to play a Single Stableford competition last Sunday, and while the course was still fairly wet, enthusiasm was as hot as ever.

Ladies A Grade:

Winner: Tiina Randmae with 32 points

Runner-up: Penny Wardroper with 23 points

Longest Drive: Tiina Randmae

Ladies B Grade:

Winner: Sally Little with 32 points on a countback from Runner-up: Pam Casey

Longest Drive: Elise Hodgson

Men’s A Grade:

Winner: John Clark with 28 points on a countback from Runner-up: Geoff Harrison

Longest Drive: Geoff Harrison

Men’s B Grade:

Winner: Wilf Herweg with a cracking 38 points - handicap gone!

Runner-up: Jalen Jarvis with 33 points

Longest Drive: David Hoy

NTPs:

Ladies A Grade : nobody on the 6th

Ladies B Grade: Karen Rix on the 16th

Ladies All In: Pam Casey and Penny Wardroper, both in the hole for 2 - nice birdies

Men’s A Grade: Jason Whitney on the 9th Men’s B Grade: Don Cameron on the 16th Men’s All In: nobody on the 13th NAGAs: the honours went to Linda Wardroper and Wayne Temby.

Next week there is no WGC competition because of the PGC Opens but Sunday 13/8 will be the August MM and Least Putts

Don’t forget to get your names in early so we can play in a block.

Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae.

August Men’s Monthly Medal winners. Photo supplied

Justyn Durbin. Photo supplied

Big Weekend for Cannons

SWIMMING

ver the weekend, six Cannons travelled to Townsville to compete in the 2023 Gardens Short Course Transition Meet while some Cannons stayed home and participated in the Whitsunday Triathlon events.

On Sunday morning, it was great to see club families, volunteers and Coach Kenny helping with the Cannons’ BBQ at the triathlon.

Highlights from Gardens: Don Algie, aged 10 years competed in 11 events. Don medalled in nine events and set 5PBs. One of Don’s best swims was his 50 metre Breaststroke which he swam in a super time of 44.82 seconds which earnt him 1st place. Jack Ganter, aged 14 years set 7 PBs out of his eight events. Jack’s best swim was his 100 metre Butterfly which he swam in an excellent time of 1.33.21 which was a 13.39 second PB (and 1st place).

OJack’s brother, Thomas aged 11 years, also swam 7PBs. Thomas swam fantastic times in his 100 metre IM and 200 metre Freestyle which earnt him 1st place.

Anisa Helou, aged 14 years, swam extremely well to earn 5PBs and top placings. Anisa’s best swim was her 100 metre IM which she swam a 5.46 second PB.

Ehsan Helou, aged 15 years, had a very successful meet achieving PBs and top placings in all his races. Ehsan swam super Freestyle – swimming the 50 metre Freestyle in 26.28 seconds, 100 metre Freestyle in 58.42 seconds and 200 metre Freestyle in 2.16.38.

Jasper Korosec, aged 10, thoroughly enjoyed his racing on Saturday. His best swim was his 100 metre IM in a time of 1.53.62 (a 1.07 second PB and 2nd place).

Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen.

High Winds For Mackerel Muster

The weather gods weren’t kind for the running of the Whitsunday Game Fish Club’s “Mackerel Muster” held last weekend.

15 to 20 knots south-easters greeted teams on both days, with Aileen Harris on “Lascar II”, weighing the only Spanish Mackerel of 14.35kgs, after losing several others to sharks.

Aileen took home $300 First Prize (one for the girls). Other teams had stories of lost mackerel and bi-catch of barracuda and queenfish.

On Sunday evening the Club held its AGM and saw Ashley Matthews elected as President, Justin Butler as Vice President, Steve Obst as Secretary, with Stacey Gerhart as Treasurer and Ashley Moore the Weighmaster.

Now its full steam ahead for the “Ben Doolin Builders Light Tackle Tournament” from 19 - 22 October, which has fast become one of the best tournaments on the coast, and one not to be missed.

Now is the time to start organising your team for this fun event.

Contributed with thanks to Dianne Anderson.

Classifieds EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

EXPRESSION OF INTEREST FOR ELECTION TO THE MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE OF

WHITSUNDAY COUNSELLING & SUPPORT

INC.

Whitsunday Counselling & Support Inc. is seeking Expressions of Interest (EOI) from suitable people in our region to join the Management Committee.

THE ORGANISATION

Whitsunday Counselling & Support Inc. is a not for profit community organisation offering a range of free, state-funded services for those affected by domestic and family violence and sexual violence. These are delivered in a confidential, safe and respectful environment, recognising diversity and inclusivity.

THE ROLE OF THE MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE

The role of the Management Committee is to provide governance and strategic leadership to the organisation. Management Committee positions are voluntary, and are elected annually.

COMMITMENT

The Management Committee meets once per month on a Wednesday evening, generally from 5.30pm to 7pm, plus an Annual General Meeting in October.

to admin@whitsundaycs.com.au no later than August 31, 2023

THE EXPRESSION OF INTEREST PROCESS

If you are interested in joining the Management Committee, or for further information about our services, please send your EOI to admin@whitsundaycs.com.au no later than August 31, 2023.

Your EOI should include the following information: - why you would like to be a WCS Committee Member - any relevant experience and/or qualifications in NGO’s governance and management - what skills you could bring to the Management Committee

Your EOI should include the following information:

• why you would like to be a WCS Committee Member

A current Blue Card (Qld Working with Children Check) is a requirement for Management Committee membership. All Expressions of Interest received will be responded to by the President of WCS on behalf of the Management Committee.

• any relevant experience and/or qualifications in NGO’s governance and management

• what skills you could bring to the Management Committee

A current Blue Card (Qld Working with Children Check) is a requirement for Management Committee membership.

All Expressions of Interest received will be responded to by the President of WCS on behalf of the Management Committee.

Aileen’s Winning Spanish Mackerel. Photo supplied

The Cannonvale Cannons competed at the Gardens in Townsville. Photo supplied

Whitsunday Regional Council - Public Notices & Tenders

4 August 2023

Rates Issued

Residents are advised that rates have been issued via mail or email for those registered with e-servises across the Whitsunday Region on the 2 August.

Residents can take advantage of the 5% discount if rates are paid in full by 4 September 2023.

Rates can be paid at any of Council’s Customer Service Centres or via any of the methods outlined on the rates notice, including online at www. whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au.

Pensioner

Remission on Rates

Persons in receipt of a pension, who qualify in accordance with Council’s Policy and/or the State Government’s Pensioner Rate Subsidy Scheme, are hereby requested to make application for the first half of the 2023/2024 year.

Pensioners who received the maximum benefits in the 2022/2023 year and whose situation has not altered need not submit a written application. Confirmation of your eligibility will be sought from the Department of Communities and Department of Veteran Affairs.

Plastic Free Places

Thanks to funding from the Queensland State Government, the Whitsundays are joining forces with Plastic Free Places to provide free assistance to food retailers as they transition away from single-use plastics.

Join other food retailers in the region Whitsunday region who have already signed up to the program to receive free tailored advice on how to become plastic free and recieve tips on how to reduce packaging costs and cut waste.

Plastic Free Champion recognition is awarded to business who follow the program and successfully become single-use plastic free. For more information visit www.plasticfreeplaces.org/nq-join

Whitsunday Coast Airport Master Plan Review

Whitsunday Regional Council are undertaking a review and update of the Whitsunday Coast Airport (WCA) Master Plan 2015.

We are seeking input to inform our Whitsunday Coast Airport Masterplan from local community, industry, aviation, tourism and related operators to help create a strategic plan that defines investment priorities for our airports future.

The Master Plan is used to strategically guide the development and expansion of the airport. A review is now practical following the recent and significant growth in passenger numbers and aircraft traffic.

We are looking to determine if the infrastructure solutions proposed in the 2015 Plan remain relevant or require reconsideration. An important part of this process is developing a clear understanding of the aviation related needs of the broader Whitsunday community.

Read our fact sheet and have your say via our Online Engagement Portal yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au or organise a catch-up with our master planning facilitator.

Current Tenders

Whitsunday Regional Council invites tenders from suitably resourced and experienced contractors for the performance of the works as described in the tender documents.

Prospective tenderers are requested to register on the eTenderBox website – https://whitsunday.etenderbox.com.au to download the relevant documentation.

# 500.2023.0053

Whitsunday Raw Water Supply – Bore Drilling Works

Tender closes no later than 2:00pm, 23rd August 2023

# 500.2023.0054

Provision of Banking and Financial Services

Tender closes no later than 2:00pm, 23rd August 2023

Tenders should be addressed to the Chief Executive Officer, endorsed with the tender name and number and lodged via eTenderBox – https:// whitsunday.etenderbox.com.au, by no later than the closing date. Section 228 (7) of the Local Government Regulation 2012, relating to changes to tenders may be applied.

Enquiries can be directed to the contact officer through the eTenderBox website or by contacting Council on 1300 972 753.

Choose Collinsville – Town Centre Upgrade

We are undertaking works in Stanley Street from Monday 17 July - early September, to upgrade and renew the Collinsville Main Street. The upgrade will revitalise and create a ‘like new’ feel in Stanley Street, aligning with our Main Street upgrades completed in Bowen, Proserpine and Airlie Beach.

Works will occur in stages, with short term impacts expected for any one business/resident, at any one time. Our local workers will create small work sites as they undertake construction through the street during July and early August. Impacts to traffic may be noticed late August as asphalting and road re-seal is undertaken.

We apologise for the inconvenience of the necessary works and will endeavour to minimise impacts on the community where possible. We encourage you to keep up to date on construction progress via our Online Engagement Portal - yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au and Council’s Facebook page.

Works are supported by the Australian Governments Building Better Regions Fund.

ACROSS

1 Breathes out (7)

4 Ed Sheeran song, – Graffiti (8)

8 Physical activity (8)

11 Bee product (9)

13 Help (6)

14 Mischievously (8)

16 Actor, – Portman (7)

17 Peaceful (8)

19 Tied up by a leash (8)

20 Catches the worm (5,4)

24 Try out (8)

25 Drink (6)

27 Rebound off a surface (8)

29 State (7)

31 Inactivity (7)

33 Outlander series author (5,8)

37 Intermittent, sporadic (8)

41 Singer-songwriter, – Parton (5)

42 Former Australian prime minister, Bob – (5)

43 Scrutinises (5)

44 Skill (5)

45 Famous battle in the American Revolution fought near a court house, the Battle of – (8)

48 Skipping school (7,6)

51 African republic (7)

54 Right (7)

56 Cooking method (8)

57 Slanted type (6)

58 Dramatic piece of fiction (8)

59 Type of nut (9)

63 Hide securely (8)

65 Follower of an Asian religion (8)

68 Canadian city (7)

69 French writer and monk, – Ricard (8)

70 Emphasise (6)

71 Feeling, emotion (9)

72 Absence of light (8)

73 Perceives (8)

74 Entertained with storytelling (7) DOWN

1 Better (7)

2 Devotion (7)

3 Twenty (5)

4 Revolved around (7)

5 Becomes amber (5)

6 Farewell (5)

7 Spacecraft in orbit (9)

8 Philosophical belief (14)

9 Understand (9)

10 Crack a case (5)

12 Citer (5)

15 Sweet, fizzy powder (7)

18 Stun (5)

21 Related (4)

22 Look at (6)

23 Luxuriousness (4)

26 Band (8)

28 Burden (4)

30 Join (7)

32 Chance (6)

34 Animal-loving Australian family (5)

35 Expressive movement (7)

36 Grey matter (5)

38 Budgerigar, for one (8)

39 Amount produced (6)

40 Flowers (14) 46 US state (6) 47 Leave out (4) 49 Opera solo (4) 50 Against (4) 52 Unauthorised (7) 53 Make content (9) 54 Thick paper often used for boxes (9)

55 Dog breed (5)

59 Cell division (7)

60 Endearment (7)

61 Cut or chop into very small pieces (5)

62 Taken as one’s own (7) 64 Antelope native to southern Africa (5)

66 Avoids (5) 67 Pivot (5) 68 Singer (5)

Experience Eternal Holiday Vibes: Modern Apartment at Marina Shores!

Embrace a constant vacation mode with this stylish and contemporary apartment located in the esteemed Marina Shores. This attractive unit is currently enjoying successful holiday lettings, expertly managed by onsite professionals, making it a fantastic addition to your investment portfolio.

Situated in a prime, central location, you’ll enjoy the convenience of secure underground parking while being within very short walking distance of cafes, restaurants, parklands, The Coral Sea Marina, and the vibrant heart of Airlie Beach – an idyllic setting for any lifestyle.

Key features of this exceptional apartment include:

• Resort-style Amenities: Delight in the tropical landscaped gardens and large pool, creating a serene oasis to call your own.

• Fully Furnished: Move right in or continue with

successful holiday rentals, as this unit comes fully furnished for your ease.

• Year-round Comfort: Stay cool in summer and cozy in winter with air-conditioning throughout the apartment.

• Spa-like Luxury: Indulge in relaxation with a spa bath featuring invigorating jets, adding a touch of luxury to your daily life.

• Modern Convenience: The kitchen boasts stainless steel appliances, elevating your culinary experiences.

• Financially Sound: Enjoy the benefit of affordable body corporate fees, ensuring your investment remains financially viable.

For those seeking more details, we offer return figures, inventory information, private viewings, and even virtual walk-throughs upon request. Embrace a never-ending holiday lifestyle and don’t miss this opportunity.

OPEN HOME: Saturday 9.30am - 10.00am

Elevate Your Family’s Lifestyle with Refined Elegance

Welcome to this extraordinary property that offers a truly luxurious lifestyle in every aspect. Situated on an expansive 2,670sqm block, this residence is fully fenced, providing both privacy and security. It boasts 4 beds, 2 baths, a separate media room, and an additional nook area, along with open plan living & dining.

The spacious butler’s pantry adds to the appeal, and did I mention the large shed??? Another bonus is there is plenty of room to include a pool, and the plumbing and electrical work have already been done.

This property is currently tenanted with a fixed term lease in place until April 2024.

Discover the pinnacle of luxury living with this remarkable property, where every detail has been carefully considered to provide an unparalleled living experience. Don’t miss out!

• 12m x 12.5m 3 Bay shed with height of 4.3m

• Plumbing and electrical work done ready for a pool

• Double lock up garage with additional storage space

• 6KW solar system in place

• Spacious butler’s pantry Media room and Nook area

• Enclosed backyard with electric gate and concrete driveway

• Additional storage throughout

• Bore and pump servicing the 7-zone irrigation system

AUCTION: Tuesday 22nd August at 6pm

TAYLORS Office 98 Shute Harbour Rd C’Vale

71 Galbraith Park Drive Cannon Valley

CONTACT: Rob Taylor 0428 466 124 rob@taylorspropertyspecialists.com.au

CONTACT: Alex Swan 0432 328 196 alex@taylorspropertyspecialists.com.au

425

BED BATH CAR

•

Ideal Living with Panoramic Views

This well-presented 2 level home located high up on one of Cannonvale’s prestigious cul de sacs, offers a quiet and serene living environment for you and your family.

Features:

• Large multi-purpose room 820m2 property includes a 400sqm flat back yard

• Expansive Valley Views from the full-length verandah

• 6.6Kw Solar System plus wired for a generator

• Ducted Air Conditioning & Additional Split Systems

• Rainwater Tank plumbed to kitchen & dishwasher

• Easily maintained gardens

AUCTION: Tuesday 22nd August at 6pm

TAYLORS Office 98 Shute Harbour Rd C’Vale 18 Panoramic Court Cannonvale

CONTACT: Rob Taylor 0428 466 124 rob@taylorspropertyspecialists.com.au

CONTACT: Alex Swan 0432 328 196 alex@taylorspropertyspecialists.com.au

BED BATH CAR 322

A Hidden Island Drive Jewel Only steps from Whitsunday Shopping Centre awaits your new investment or savvy purchase. Unit 32 in Island Close Apartments has 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom that exudes charm and coziness. With its recent renovations and thoughtful upgrades, you’ll find comfort and modern convenience seamlessly blended together.

Sparkling Complex Pool

• Undercover Carport & lockable storage

•

AUCTION: Tuesday 22nd August at 6pm

TAYLORS Office 98 Shute Harbour Rd C’Vale 32/11 Island Drive Cannonvale

CONTACT: Brad Sobott 0411 236 507 brad@taylorspropertyspecialists.com.au

potential buyers perceive properties advertised in print as having a higher value

WEEKLY TV GUIDE

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.15 Late Programs.

7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG)

7.30 MOVIE: Independence Day. (1996) (M)

7.30pm Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)

8.00 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

8.30 Movie: Girl With A Pearl Earring. (2003) (PG, R) Colin Firth.

10.05 Doctor Who. (PG, R)

11.00 We Hunt Together. (MA15+, R)

11.45 Killing Eve. (MA15+, R)

12.30am Unprotected Sets. (M, R)

1.25 Brassic. (MA15+, R)

5.30pm Escape To The Country. (R)

6.30 Bargain Hunt. (R)

7.30 Border Security: International. (PG, R)

8.30 Escape To The Country.

12.30 Border Security: International. (PG, R)

1.00 Escape To The Country. (R)

5.30pm American Pickers. (PG, R)

6.30 Pawn Stars. (PG, R)

7.00 AFL: Friday Night Countdown.

7.30 Football. AFL. Round 21. Western Bulldogs v Richmond.

10.30 AFL Post-Game Show.

11.00 Armchair Experts. (M)

12.00 Movie: Cool Hand Luke. (1967) (M, R)

5.30pm Yorkshire Auction House.

6.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

7.30 To Be Advised.

8.30 Movie: Notting Hill. (1999)

8.30 Would I Lie To You?

9.00 Gruen. (R)

9.40 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

10.10 Penn & Teller: Fool Us. (PG, R)

10.50 Tomorrow Tonight. (PG, R)

11.20 Doctor Who. (PG, R)

12.10am Louis Theroux’s LA Stories. (M, R)

5.30pm

The Country. (R)

6.30 Bargain Hunt. (R) 7.30 Doc Martin. (PG, R)

7.30

8.30 Movie: U.S. Marshals. (1998) (M, R) Tommy Lee Jones, Wesley Snipes, Robert Downey Jr.

Absolute

5.30pm American Pickers. (PG, R)

6.30 Pawn Stars. (PG, R)

7.30 FIFA Women’s World Cup Pre-Game.

8.30 Soccer. FIFA Women’s World Cup. Round of 16.

10.30 FIFA Women’s World Cup Post-Game.

Commando.

R)

1.15 Room For Improvement. (R)

2.00 Bargain Hunt. (R)

5.30pm Escape To The Country. (R)

6.30 Bargain Hunt. (R)

7.30 Father Brown. (M, R)

8.30 Miss Scarlet And The Duke. (M, R)

9.30 Ms Fisher’s Modern Murder Mysteries. (M, R)

10.30 Murdoch Mysteries. (M, R)

11.30 Father Brown. (M, R)

12.30 Harry’s Practice. (R)

5.30pm American Pickers. (PG)

6.30 Pawn Stars. (PG, R)

7.30 Highway Patrol. (PG, R)

8.30 The Force: Behind The Line. (PG, R)

9.30 Motorway Patrol. (PG, R)

10.00 Beach Cops. (PG, R)

10.30 Surveillance Oz. (PG, R)

11.00 Police: Hour Of Duty. (M, R)

5.30pm American Pickers. (PG)

6.30 Pawn Stars. (PG, R)

7.30 The Simpsons.

(PG, R)

8.30 Movie: The Waterboy. (1998) (M, R)

10.20 Movie: Pineapple Express. (2008)

(MA15+, R)

12.35 It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia. (MA15+)

5.30pm

5.30pm Celebrity Yorkshire Auction House.

6.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 7.30 RBT. (M, R)