Whitsunday Life

Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN) are thrilled to announce a new manager, Adriel Burley, who is now employed locally and ready to

actively help people through challenging times that could lead to mental health struggles.

He will work with the broader WSPN committee to create awareness of the free services

BOWEN YOUTH

available and further generate the conversation on how we can all use our own sphere of influence to protect people and prevent suicide.

Read on page 6

WSPN Manager Adriel Burley, WSPN Patron and Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP, WSPN volunteer Matt Stokes, WSPN Treasurer Paul Burke and WSPN volunteer Di Fleetwood. Photo credit: Norina Jane

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FRESH FRUIT FRIDAY

Hi Everyone, Health is the greatest, most priceless gift of all.

When we have good health, whether that be mental or physical, we are incredibly blessed.

This week on the front page we welcome Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network’s new manager who will oversee all local operations.

Adriel Burley is dedicated to helping our region’s youth and is passionate about creating a supportive community that knows how to help others, so that suicidal thoughts can be prevented before they even form.

Mental health is not necessarily visible and that’s what makes it so hard to see – it is not a broken arm or snotty nose – it is often hidden deep and can be found in the most unlikely of usually smiling faces.

By checking in with each other, asking R U Ok?, we can all do our part to put an end to people thinking there is no other option but suicide.

Continuing with the health theme, I found out this week that my dad has bowel cancer.

He is 71 years old and fortu-

nately, it was discovered early on, and it is operable. As many of you will know, I was diagnosed with stage three bowel cancer almost four years ago, and after six months of chemotherapy, I was lucky to survive.

It is well-known now that a prevalence of cancer runs in the family, so if you have a family history of cancer make sure you stay vigilant. Watch out for symptoms such as extreme exhaustion, nausea, indigestion and an ongoing niggling ache or concern.

While most symptoms are usually of no concern, I believe it is our own responsibility to be our own internal doctor and complete regular check-ups.

When was the last time you had a breast scan or a papsmear test? If you are over 50 or concerned about your bowel movements – have you ordered a bowel screening test?

A bit of discomfort now can avoid a lot of discomforts later, trust me, I know.

The fuel we put into our bodies is important, especially in the bodies of our children as they grow and develop.

The energy from a well-balanced and nutritional diet powers them, helps sustain them throughout a busy school day and gives them brain power to learn new things.

One local dad understands this implicitly and he uses his knowledge of health and fitness to create an initiative called The Healthy Kids Project.

“One of the ways we help improve the health of our kids is through nutrition,” said father of three Tim Oberg.

“And the food we consume at school, for some families, is potentially the best food they consume all day.”

With this in mind, Tim decided to help guide the school Tuck Shop into a higher health

accreditation by eliminating junk food and replacing it with healthy options.

He has also introduced Fresh Fruit Friday by working with Woolworths in Cannonvale, who supply free fruit to the local school children every week on a Friday.

Last week was the first time they trialled the initiative and Tim said he was astounded by the result.

“Woolworths kindly supplied 100 pieces of fruit last Friday and it went in literally five minutes!” he said.

“They’ve offered to supply more next week just to keep up with demand!”

Fresh Fruit Friday is currently gaining momentum at Cannonvale State School and Tim says he hopes it will expand to other schools across the region, the state and even on a national level.

The box of fresh fruit that was distributed for free at Cannonvale State School on Friday. Photo supplied

“The first wealth is health” (Emerson)

Tragic Road Accident Claims Bowen Youth

The Bowen community is morning the loss of a young man who died tragically in a road accident on the Bruce Highway north of Bloomsbury last week.

At approximately 6pm on Wednesday, February 1, it is alleged that a stolen blue SUV veered onto the other side of the road and collided with a B-double truck.

The highway was closed into the evening and while the 31-year-old driver of the truck survived, the 20-year-old driver of the SUV was pronounced dead at the scene.

It was later discovered that the SUV had been reported stolen from a Mount Pleasant home earlier that week at a property where a burglary had also taken place.

Despite the nature of the events that led to the death of the young man, police are reminding the public that his parents have lost a son, the family have lost a relative and friends have lost a good mate.

They are also reminding the community how one bad decision can put into motion a catalyst of events that can re-

sult in death.

“The only saving grace is that nobody else was injured in the particular incident however that is of very little comfort to the family and their loved ones who have lost a 20-year-old child,” said Detective Acting Inspector Chris Eaton.

Tiege Close will be remembered by those close to him for his kind heart and loving nature.

One of his best friends, Naitayah Preston, said he was caring, funny and always put everyone before himself.

“He was there for so many people and he made a big impact on everyone’s life,” she said.

“He was the light to most people’s lives, he always made sure no one did anything alone and made sure everyone had everything they needed.

Bogie Alleged Murderer In Court

The alleged murderer of three family members in a shooting in Bogie last August appeared by video link at Bowen Magistrates Court on Tuesday this week.

Darryl Valroy Young, 59, has been charged with the murders of his neighbours Mervyn and Maree Schwarz, 71 and 59 respectively, and Mrs Schwarz’s 35-year-old son, Grahame Tighe.

see what she was doing - he was an angel on and off this world too good to be on this earth.

“He was my best friend we would spend just about every day with each other - I will cherish every memory with himwe never had a dull moment wherever we ended up and I will cherish every moment I got to have with him.”

Police are also urging anyone to intervene if they hear of a family member or close friend intending to steal a car as their intervention could help save a life.

He is also charged with the attempted murder of Mrs Schwarz’s youngest son, 30-year-old Ross Tighe, who was shot in the incident but able to flee the scene and alert authorities. It is believed that Mr Young invited his neighbours to meet with him to discuss boundary dispute issues when the incident took place. Mr Young has now also been charged with three additional offences, including possessing an unregistered Breda shotgun, possessing a replica weapon and possessing a Winchester rifle.

During the hearing the police prosecutor asked for an extension to deliver the brief of evidence and the matter was adjourned until February 21.

Tiege Close in happier times. Photo supplied.

Preventing Suicide Within Our Community

Continued from page 1.

“We all have a sphere of influence in the community that we are part of,” said Adriel Burley.

“It could be your football club, it could be your business or teenagers of a similar age, it could be part of the farming community – connecting with us and learning what we do provides us with a sphere of influence into those communities and we need that.”

Suicide is a difficult subject to approach with someone who you may be concerned about, in fact many people are worried about saying the wrong thing and making the situation worse.

WSPN have a host of tools to help you and also offer regular free training workshops to teach residents how to best respond to concerns.

With Adriel at the helm, there will now be countless other ways that help is available in the community.

Some of his top priorities include ensuring local youth have access to the right help and trying to promote early intervention.

“There is often a perception that suicide prevention is about acute and crisis,” he said.

“But there is so much we can do in the preventative space – in the Whitsundays we have all these diverse industries here with varying pressures so we need to be pre-emptive here.

“Whether it be natural disasters, economic change or homelessness – there are all sorts of societal pressures on why people come into crisis and we can help the community prepare for that so it

actually supports itself.”

WSPN Patron and Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP said Adriel represents an invaluable support mechanism.

“I think he is going to be a very valuable resource for the community to connect and tap in with,” she said.

“It will also help the network to focus on the direction and its strategies - to have someone who is dedicated to the community, to establish its presence more and to have a point of contact will be invaluable.”

Volunteer Matt Stokes said that securing Adriel as a Manager means that the committee, which is largely made up of local business owners, have a man on the ground to help.

“We were a bunch of exhausted business owners who didn’t have much time but now Adriel’s enthusiasm is lifting the committee and with his help we can do so much more,” said Matt.

“I’m time poor but I give as much as I can, and I would encourage others to come onto the committee and help where they can too.”

WSPN provide a range of local services which include free counselling for families affected by suicide, free weekly breathing classes in Bowen and Airlie Beach, and direct links to other services that can help with mental health.

“We are a safety net for the community,” said Adriel.

If this article has raised any issues for you call Lifeline on 131114 or call WSPN directly on 07 4945 2858.

Woman Gets Jelly Fish Sting On Hamo

Swimmers are warned to wear stinger suits when venturing out into the ocean at this time of the year following a suspected stinger incident last week.

On Sunday morning Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) attended to a woman in her 20s who had received a suspected marine sting.

It was 11.26 am when paramedics arrived at the scene on Re-

There have been 13 confirmed Irukandji stings in the Whitsundays so far this season

sort Drive, Hamilton Island and the woman was reported to be in a stable condition when she reached the island’s medical centre.

If you encounter anyone with a suspected marine sting, call 000 immediately and then douse the site of the sting with vinegar for at least 30 seconds.

If vinegar is not available, use salt water.

Also, try to carefully remove any tentacles.

Symptoms of an Irukandji sting may not be immediate and can appear five to 45 minutes later. They include severe backache or headache, shooting pains in muscles, chest and abdomen, nausea, anxiety, restlessness, vomiting and breathing difficulties. Irukandji stings can cause heart damage and failure.

Wild Weather, Local Predictions

Wet weather has plagued the Whitsundays all week and with a tropical low forming on the monsoon trough near the Solomon Islands, many residents are bracing themselves for the possibility of another cyclone.

With Cyclone Debbie entrenched in the local narrative and mass media sensationalising moderate weather reports, Whitsunday Life Newspaper decided to find out how this weather system will affect our region by talking to a local expert.

Liam Leonard from L&K Mackay

Severe Weather has been following the weather as a hobby for 10 years and his Facebook Page has an impressive 24K followers who all listen to his predictions.

“I’m pretty damn good at what I

do weatherwise,” he said.

“My forecasting is pretty damn accurate, especially when it comes down to cyclones and severe weather.

When discussing this week’s severe weather, Liam said that on Wednesday the system was just travelling and strengthening.

“It looks like we will have a tropical cyclone,” he explained.

“But no model suggests that it will impact Australia whatsoever.”

Liam predicts it will remain 400 kilometres off the South East coast of Australia and will continue to travel in a South East direction.

“We will get a few scud showers – fast moving, small, intense bursts of

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WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR WORK?

The diversity! I have a challenging role and with the rapid growth of the business I am always exploring innovative ways of working better. We are proud to recruit many young apprentices and develop them towards a thriving career. But best of all is the lifestyle. I have the flexibility in my role, as do all employees, to adapt my hours to suit the needs of my family and lifestyle.

showers and some strong winds but it will be close to all over by Friday,” he predicts.

“Every year when we have a severe weather event the media always predict the worst-case scenario and put fear into people so they run out and buy all the bread and milk!

“I always give people the straight up version of what is likely to happen, without all the BS!

“I’ve lived here most of my life so I know the geographical lay of the land and can predict what is likely going to happen in our local area.”

For real time updates head to L&K Mackay Severe Weather and ‘like’ Liam’s page.

Lost Dog Found After 16 Days Out Bush

“Get The Job Done Or Get Out Of Our Road”

Major Bruce Highway upgrades abandoned in February have finally recommenced this week with the new contractors for the work getting stuck in after a twelve-month delay on the project.

The $68.85 million worth of contract works across three sites between Ayr and Proserpine are finally moving ahead this week as the Queensland Government replaced previous contractor South African company WBHO Infrastructure -- which entered voluntary administration in early 2022 and downed tools on sites across Australia.

Work on the Bruce Highway is still a long way away, with the Queensland Government hoping it will be completed in 2023 barring any further delay.

Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox was glad that travellers on the Bruce are “finally seeing roadwork crews getting ready to recommence works on the road” yet questioned Labour’s commitment to the network considering the extended timeframe.

“These roadworks have sat dormant for 12 months, causing headaches and expense for locals and visitors to the Dawson region,” Mr Willcox said.

“Our people have had enough. We have been dealing with dangerous road conditions, lowered speed limits and extra fuel costs travelling through these dormant road works for what feels like forever.

“Timeframe blowouts, budget blowouts and now tire blowouts are firmly getting on our nerves. All this, and Labor thinks our roads are holding up well. Queensland Labor need to prioritise safety and connectivity of the Bruce in Dawson.

“This is my constituents hard earned tax dollars just sitting dormant while we urgently need our Bruce upgraded.”

The Member for Dawson said the recent flooding event in the region highlighted the urgent need for these upgrades.

“I will not stop urging the Queensland Government to prioritise road safety for the people of Dawson, either get the job done or get out of our road,” he said.

Amissing dog has returned home to his family safely after 16 days lost in bushland near a walking track on Brandy Creek Road.

It was over two weeks ago when Linda Peacock had been walking seven-year-old ‘Bear’, a Shar-Pei cross, and her other dog ‘Banjo’, a Border Collie pup, when a wild pig jumped out of the bush.

The two dogs immediately raced after the pig and within seconds they disappeared into the thick undergrowth.

The recent rains meant the sounds of flowing water were loud and Linda struggled to shout their names loudly enough to be heard. Despite this, she stayed all day and into the evening, hoping to find the dogs.

Reluctantly returning home when it was dark, Linda put a notice up on popular Facebook site, Whitsundays Chat, and waited hoping that someone would find them.

Miraculously, Banjo was returned home after 32 hours but, despite possible sightings of Bear, he remained elusive.

“It was beautiful hearing of sightings because it kept the hope there,” said Linda.

“We knew he wasn’t dead because we just felt that he was alive, but it was difficult when it past the two-week mark because we’d heard that’s how long most dogs can survive.”

On the 16th day, Linda felt despair creep in and called out to the universe and pleaded for his return.

Five minutes later she received a call from three backpackers who had found Bear.

“It was amazing timing,” said Linda. “The backpackers nearly didn’t see him as he was hiding and camouflaged under a tree, but another walker had informed them that they had seen a dog so fortunately, the boys knew to keep a look out.”

Shortly afterwards Bear was reunited with Linda, his little face lighting up the second he saw her.

“He was so happy to see us,” said Linda. “But he’d lost over five kilos – when we took him to the vet it was like he’d gone on the Biggest Loser and it was Reveal Day!”

The two dogs are now reunited with Linda’s third dog and the family is very happy to be back together.

Roadwork is finally recommencing on the Bruce Highway after twelve-months

Bear was found by three backpackers after spending 16 days alone in the bush

Happy to be reunited with his family and on the way home. Photos supplied

$15,000 Raised For Tiny Homes Project

Organisers are thrilled with the success of their Bali Hai Fundraiser held at Waters Edge Resort on Saturday night.

Not only did the raindrops stay away for a spectacular open-air event around the pool, but their valued guests and business sponsors generated over $15,000 worth of donations on the night.

The Tiny Homes Project is dedicated to raising much-needed funds for the construction of four homes on Gardenia Street in Proserpine on a piece of land which has kindly been donated by the Whitsunday Regional Council.

These four homes will be given to women over 55 who are currently experiencing homelessness and charity founder, Sandy Clark, said women in this demographic are statistically the most likely to suffer from homelessness.

“These women are someone’s sisters, mothers, cousins or grandmothers,” she said.

“It’s not fair that these elderly women are homeless and it’s not right that we turn a blind eye to reality when collectively we can make a difference. “We can fix this problem if we come together and share the load.”

The Bali Hai event was the latest in a series of charity dinners dedicated

to raising money for the Tiny Homes project and Sandy said she was delighted by the ongoing support.

“The event was sold out two weeks in advance and we had nearly 100 enthusiastic guests, many in Balinese style outfits, hoping to win the bestdressed male or female prizes,” she said.

On the night there was live entertainment from Viva Acoustic and the talented Brad Elliott played four roles including MC, Singer, Auctioneer and Comedian.

Mayor Julie Hall was in attendance and announced that some of the proceeds from her upcoming Mayor’s Annual Charity Ball, due to be held on July 22, will be given to the project.

Organisers would like to thank every individual and local business who

RACQ Weekend Rescues Across Land And Sea

sponsored the event and gave kind donations or supported the evening in some way.

While there are too many to list individually, each contribution was deeply appreciated.

Cannonvale Substation “Explodes”

The RACQ CQ Rescue Helicopter had a busy few days over the weekend with a series of rescues that spanned the far reaches of the Whitsundays, from a remote homestead at Mt Coolon to a boat in distress near Hayman Island.

Firstly, RACQ CQ Rescue airlifted an elderly man with a broken neck from a remote homestead near Mt Coolon.

The 87-year-old man had fallen down a flight of stairs at the cattle property and suffered spinal injuries.

The team were tasked by Queensland Health at about 4.30pm on Friday to fly more than 400km with a doctor and Critical Care Paramedic on board to treat and retrieve the injured man.

stable condition.

On Saturday the rescue helicopter was tasked to an EPIRB activation about 35 kilometres east of Hayman Island at about 6.30pm.

The helicopter quickly honed in on the distress beacon signal and made radio contact with occupants on a five-metre centre-console boat just before dark to establish they were safe, unhurt and that their boat had broken down.

Volunteer Marine Rescue was already en route to the scene and was tasked to assist retrieve the vessel and those on board, so the rescue helicopter returned to base at Mackay Airport.

On Tuesday morning residents of Banksia Court in Cannonvale woke up to two loud explosions at around 7am.

Andrew McKay was listening to the radio with his wife at the time and after the explosions, the power immediately went off.

Heading outside to investigate the nearby substation, Andrew saw that it was on fire and immediately alerted Ergon Energy.

“I walked around the corner and could see that the doors on the substation had blown open and it was on fire,” he said.

“There was a lot of smoke coming out and we called Ergon, couldn’t get through but they had already identified the issue and were on their way.”

Within 30 minutes crews were attending to the outage which saw 565 customers in the nearby vicinity lose power.

Ergon restored electricity to more than 400 customers within an hour.

“Generation units from Mackay and Townsville were brought in so we could restore temporary supply to 146 customers while network repairs were underway,”

said an Ergon spokesperson.

The helicopter landed in a grassed area adjacent to the homestead in the nearly four-hour mission and he was transferred to Mackay Base Hospital in

The cause of the explosion was a fault in the underground cable leading to a Padmount substation, which also needed to be repaired.

By coincidence, residents had been informed that there would be a routine power outage that same morning, but Ergon assures residents that the unexpected fault was not connected to the planned maintenance which subsequently had to be delayed.

On Sunday, RACQ CQ Rescue was tasked again to Hayman Island to airlift a resident with a serious abdominal condition.

It was a busy weekend of emergency airlifts for RACQ CQ Rescue and uplifting to know that all patients survived.

By 3.15pm Andrew had power returned to his household.

“Ergon have performed magnificently,” he said.

“We now have a very large generator pumping out power, it was running by late afternoon, so we were able to keep things cold and keep the fridges running – it’s miraculous and they need to be highly commended.”

Volunteer Fiona Donnellan, Joanne Moynihan from Whitsunday Housing Company, Bonnie Taylor who spoke on the night and Sandy Clark from the Tiny Homes Project. Photo credit: Will Finley

RACQ CQ Rescue landed at a remote property near Mt Coolon on Friday to transfer an 87-year-old man with a broken neck to hospital.

Photo supplied

Banksia Court resident Andrew McKay heard two loud explosions at 7am on Tuesday morning. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

Equipment damage in the Padmount substation. Photo supplied

Chamber Chat

An exciting week last week with the arrival of the first Bonza flight from Sunshine Coast. Increased tourist visitation to the region and increased access for locals will be a positive for our members and the broader community.

SEE YOU AT LAKE PROSERPINE

By Councillor John Collins

In exciting news for Lake Proserpine, we are nearing our 10,000th campsite booking since we started taking official reservations in July 2021.

Lake Proserpine is truly a hidden gem within the region, and I encourage everyone to get out there to experience what Division 3 has to offer whether that’s catching a 1 metre barra or having a BBQ with your family while watching a spectacular sunset.

Only a few years ago we had minimal facilities here and we now have a popular camping area including glamping options, with new pontoons, shower facilities, upgraded toilets and improved picnic areas. Having hundreds of vehicles each week travelling through Proserpine during peak season will create an estimated average spend of $385 on provisions and services per vehicle.

This means an economic injection into the Whitsunday region of up to $7million annually.

Due to the recent severe rainfall event in January, the Peter Faust Dam is now at 72.75 per cent capacity, which is great news as it is our sole water source for Proserpine, Airlie Beach, Cannonvale and Bowen. This is the highest it has been since 2019!

Our Whitsunday Disaster Management Group did a wonderful job coordinating road closures and ensuring public safety during the weather event. This group is made up of various agencies such as QPS, SES and QFES, with Council at the lead during a disaster. I can ensure you we are in very capable hands should a Tropical Cyclone form off our coastline this wet season.

It’s important that we’re all prepared for whatever may come our way during storm season – that’s just part of what we have to do to live in the beautiful Whitsundays! Visit Council’s website for preparation tips.

Til next time.

Sarge

Cruise ships continue to be a strong economic driver for the Airlie Beach and surrounds, please make our seafaring guests welcome if you are in the area.

Our next event is on Thursday, February 16 between 6-8pm.

Topic: Soon to be introduced legislation for paid family and domestic violence leave

Very special guest speaker: Joanna Minchinton from CCIQ. Specialist in Workplace Relations.

Ticketing per WCCC website. Venue TBC.

Allan Milostic, President of the Whitsunday Coast Chamber of Commerce

Full-time, part-time and casual employees will be able to access 10 days of paid family and domestic violence leave in a 12-month period. The full 10-day leave entitlement will be available upfront.

• The leave will be available from:

• 1 February 2023, for employees of nonsmall business employers (employers with 15 or more employees on 1 February 2023)

• 1 August 2023, for employees of small business employers (employers with less than 15 employees on 1 February 2023).

• From 1 February 2023, there are rules about information that must not be included on an employee’s pay slip relating to paid family and domestic violence leave.

Contributed with thanks to Allan Milostic.

The amount of rates you pay is largely dependent on the demand for quality infrastructure and services, and the amount of residents in an area who contribute to the cost of these services through their rates.

To put this into perspective, Townsville City Council have 52.25 residents per square km and Brisbane have a whopping 953 residents per square km, whereas in the Whitsundays we have only 1.5 residents per square km.

The demand is high for quality infrastructure, services and council support in our region. To meet these expectations, Council must set our rate charges at an appropriate level in order to deliver and maintain these facilities and to keep our region growing. Council’s main aim is to deliver the best liveability and high-quality services for our residents while keeping your rates bill as low as possible.

Newborn Baby Airlifted From Proserpine

Alocal family are grateful their newborn son is alive following the terrifying moment his lung collapsed just hours after he was born.

Brianna Woods was concerned when listening to her son Kyron breathe in the hours after his birth.

“He sounded like a baby goat,” she recalls.

“I thought – this isn’t right - so I called a nurse who called the doctor who administered cold pressed oxygen and then his lung collapsed.”

Within minutes the medical team jumped into action and it was decided to airlift baby Kyron to Townsville.

“It was extremely scary because when my first baby was born, he was airlifted to Mackay,” said Brianna.

“It was like reliving a nightmare, going through it all again.”

Kyron was flown at a low altitude so that no additional damage was done to his lung and was soon in the care of experts.

Brianna and her husband were not permitted to travel on the aircraft, so they raced home to Bowen, packed a quick overnight bag and drove straight to Townsville.

When they arrived, Kyron was connected to several beeping machines which was terrifying for the new parents to witness.

Their newborn son spent the next two days on oxygen and was attached to a CPAP machine while doctors put a drain on his lung.

Fortunately, his lung soon returned to normal, and all his signs were looking good.

“After a few days we took his wires off to give him a bath and all his levels were perfect,” said Brianna.

“But that night they declined again so he was put back on oxygen.”

While Kyron was under specialist care, Brianna and her husband, Bayden, were welcomed into the nearby Ronald McDonald House.

Located a one-minute walk away from the hospital, the Ronald McDonald House provides accommodation for families with sick children.

During their stay, Brianna met one lady who had spent six months at the house while her newborn twins received medical care.

“The house was a life-saver to so many of us in there,” said Brianna.

“You walk in, and everything is there –food, a bed, drinks – and there are other people to talk to who are going through a similar situation so you can comfort each other.

“The hospital can be very stressful with endless rounds of doctors and registrars; it

was all so much to take in and it was nice to be able to escape that for a bit.”

After nine days at Townsville Hospital, Kyron was released and he is now a healthy four-month-old baby leading a normal life.

Recently, Brianna’s mum took a donation box full of children’s toys and clothes to Ronald McDonald House to say thank you.

Brianna will always remember her time at “Ronny Mac’s” and she said would recommend others to use the service if it is offered to them.

“I was a bit nervous at first, being away from Kyron, but it’s only a minute’s walk away,” she said.

“Don’t be scared, just take it in and use the service, it made all the difference when we were there.”

Baby Kyron’s lung collapsed a few hours after he was born The family deliver a thank you package to the Ronald McDonald House Kyron is now a fit and healthy four-monthold baby. Photos supplied

Proserpine’s Librarian Robyn Batman

If it is possible that the ‘world’s happiest job’ exists, Robyn Batman could convince you that it is being a librarian.

Mrs Batman exudes passion and happiness for her profession. Perhaps it is the proximity to great writing, perhaps the air conditioning, but the Proserpine, Bowen, and Collinsville Library Team Leader would point to where a group of children sit reading in the library’s breezy corners and smile -- the expression says more than words in any book.

“I love the people. It’s not just the community, it’s my staff members; I love interacting with all of them,” Mrs Batman said. “Being in a job that gives so much back and provides so much to the community in lots of positive ways fills my cup.

For 12 years, Mrs Batman has worked at Proserpine Library, starting as its Team Leader before expanding into the Team Leader roles for Bowen and Collinsville. She spends her weeks in between Proserpine and Bowen, occasionally heading out to Collinsville, and said she could not adore it more.

“What my job entails is a good customer service background, good people advisory and people skills for managing and running a team, how to catalogue a book, activities, promoting, marketing – things that I loved and learned and have been a

part of my job from day one,” she said.

“I have seen some change here, especially through Covid, where we have learned more about engaging with the community more and in different ways, particularly moving into the digital age.

“People should come to the library because it is a place that offers so much for free. There is so much to take from books and in the variety of services we offer here. And it’s air-conditioned!”.

There has been some culture shock in adjusting to Proserpine for Susan Blyth, the new manager of the town’s Nursing Home.

“I heard recently that truck drivers shouldn’t be stopping by the roadside to fish for barramundi after the flooding because the crocodiles are there,” Susan laughed.

“I heard Proserpine River has them in plague proportions and it’s right over there, a few hundred metres from where we work!”

Moving from Launceston, Tasmania, to take on the role at Proserpine Nursing Home, Susan has worked in aged care for more than two decades, travelling across the country to better facilities in both the business sense and in their ability to care for the elderly.

Her ethos is: “where there’s a will there’s a way. Never say no!”

“I always say this to staff: if we run out of ice cream, we never say we’ve run out of ice cream. We get into our vehicles and drive down to the local IGA and get some ice cream,” Ms Blyth said.

Blyth

“The privilege of working in aged care is the simple fact you are caring for another person.”

She arrived at Proserpine Nursing Home in May of last year with fresh ideas that she hopes to implement like hosting wine and cheese nights for the residents and their families, as well as those she already has realised, like restructuring the catering.

Ms Blyth said she arrived at Proserpine Nursing Home to find that it was already a place that its residents called home:

“I can honestly say, quite sincerely, Proserpine is the first facility I have walked into where the genuine love and care is extraordinary,” Ms Blyth said.

“Aged care can be such a challenging thing. Yet, to have a place where the local community has already show their passion and priority for those who live here, that is more than many places across the country.

“I have never come across that before. Normally, you’re having to change the culture towards that, however, here, it is a place built by the community for the community. Every resident is so well loved.”

Robyn Batman, the Proserpine, Bowen, and Collinsville Library Team Leader has been in amongst the stacks for 12 years

“WHERE THERE IS A WILL THERE’S A WAY” Susan

Jade Botto, Proserpine Nursing Home’s new general manager Susan Blyth, and Courtney Beard

Student Stands Out At National Science Camp

One of the region’s rising young stars spent his school holidays at a nationally prestigious annual summer camp that invites the country’s best and brightest in for a 10-day learning experience.

Proserpine State High School student Sam Rogers was invited to attend the National Computer Science School (NCSS) at the University of Melbourne alongside 64 other grade 11 and 12 students, receiving a full scholarship to attend.

The camp yearly invites students to its intensive course on computer programming, tasking its attendees with rigorous 18-hour days of activities ranging from lectures and programming interviews to scavenger hunts and social events.

Sam said this year’s course focused on “web development and allowed students to work in industry style teams to create

“It’s Still A Seller’s Market”

The local property market is holding steady - even improving in some regional hotspots - despite interest rates in the country rapidly rising according to local experts.

Whitsunday Realty Principal Troy Liesch said it could be attributed to the lack of listings – something that’s “the same everywhere.”

“What we’re seeing is that there are still buyers, prices are still strong, rentals are crazy,” Mr Liesch said.

“A lot of properties have been sold over the past two years and I think a lot of them would be rental properties, which people are living in now. They’ve been sold and become owner occupied; a lot of investment properties that have been cleaned out and the market becomes dear, like it is everywhere.

“I haven’t seen any price crash here. It’s such a seller’s market now that most homes we get won’t even make it to market – we have a backlog of people looking to buy

that get to it before then.”

For sellers, that means high prices. And Mr Leisch said with so few places up for grabs now that homes can be sold as quickly as a week – normally they would remain on the market for 30 to 40 days.

“If I was thinking about selling my house, it’d be a case of sooner rather than later. We have people ringing up almost every day looking for a house,” he said.

“What I would suggest is, because in the next six months, the interest rates will influence how many buyers there will be, to sell while the going’s good. What we might see is more people selling their homes once the interest rates reach even higher, and that can change the complexion of things.

“What I would suggest is: people can come have any conversation with me – a free appraisal or a chat about the market – I’m happy to talk to them. Whether it’s rental or selling. We’re here to help.

a chatbot and video presentation for parents, mentors, and the public.”

“Regardless of coding abilities, the incredible tutors meant there was always something for everyone to contribute and learn,” Sam said.

“NCSS was a phenomenal chance to learn more about the booming industry of computer science, but also to meet an incredible group of passionate and like-minded teenagers from around the country.”

The Proserpine-born student - who showed off his computing abilities on the world stage when winning two awards at the International Science and Engineering Fair last May for the construction and programming of a robotic arm – continued his rocketing momentum in the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (S.T.E.M) fields at the national camp.

At the event’s closing ceremony, Sam was recognized with an award for ‘Outstanding combination of technical, teamwork, and leadership skills’.

Alongside brother Mac Rogers – Proserpine State High School’s Year 12 Dux for 2022 and inaugural winner of Channel 10’s ‘Ultimate Classroom’ S.T.E.M program –Sam is proving a major player in the Proserpine school’s scientific revolution, with his dream to study at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in his crosshairs.

Proserpine State High School student Sam Rogers (left) claimed another accolade for his growing collection at the National Computer Science School

Whitsunday Realty Principal Troy Liesch said the property market is strong and those looking to sell would best do so soon

Emily GIG GUIDE

Friday 10th Feb

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

• Paradiso: Tasman (7-10pm)

• Grandview Hotel, Bowen: Tim Griffin (from 8pm)

• KC’s: Aaron Saxon (8pm-late)

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

Saturday 11th Feb

• The Pub: Green Day/Blink 182 Tribute (2-5.30pm)

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

• Paradiso: Mike Duff (7-10pm)

• KC’s: Sam McCann (8pm-late)

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

Sunday 12th Feb

• Paradiso: Aaron Saxon (1-4pm)

• The Pub: MTV Unplugged (2-5.30pm)

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

• KC’s: Aaron Saxon (8pm-late)

Monday 13th Feb

• KC’s: Live music (8pm-late)

Tuesday 14th Feb

• KC’s:

Wednesday

Thursday 16th Feb

• Paradiso: Aaron Saxon (6.30-9.30pm)

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

• Grandview Hotel, Bowen: Sam

•

Australian actor-turned-director Frances O’Conner, with her debut film Emily, has managed to create something interesting and thoughtful –beautiful in its own right – yet something more akin to our modern sensibilities than it is to the time of the Brontë sisters.

Cobbling together some old things, placing them into a new form, and wiggling them around a bit, O’Connor has put to screen a well-constructed debut that muddles with the factual parts of history. Although, there is not too much known about the middle Brontë – so it is a land rife for creative imagining - other than her penning of what is one of literature’s finest, wildest romantic stories: Wuthering Heights.

In Emily, O’Connor uses a great deal of artistic license to imagine the transformative, exhilarating, and uplifting journey to womanhood of who she envisages as a rebel and misfit. It is ostensibly a recreation of Wuthering Heights where its creator plays the main role. “How did you write Wuthering Heights,” Emily’s sister, Charlotte -the famed writer of Jane Eyre – asks in the film. Well, this fever-dream film proposes that she lived it.

Someone who was historically reclusive,

the Emily we see here is instead transposed with a sardonic, “I-won’t-playyour-game” archetype of the tortured artist who eventually becomes one of the world’s most famous, enigmatic, and provocative writers.

Certainly, this will not be the last time the Brontë sisters are “reinvented” for contemporary audiences. This writer believes it is a reductionist way of viewing a group of complex women to reflect ourselves, rather than allowing them to be who they are, to teach us things.

It is not purposefully harmful, trying to

package them within the constraints of our modern life and sensibilities, yet it still is. Emily still has its merits belied by O’Connor’s message: do not conform, express your creative freedom, even in the face of ridicule.

For a rainswept period piece and a romantic fairy-tale with visual brilliance in its cinematography, Emily is worth the watch – just remember it’s hardly true.

Emily will show at the Bowen Summergarden Cinema from February 18.

Movie Review by Declan Durrant

BOWEN S SUMMERGARDEN CINEMAS

MOVIES: ALL SCREENINGS ARE IN 2D UNLESS SPECIFIED.

EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC OF 7.1 SURROUND SOUND ON SELECTED MOVIES.

“MAGIC MIKE’S LAST DANCE” (MA) 152 mins Comedy/Drama After a long hiatus, "Magic" Mike takes to the stage again following a business deal that went bust, leaving him broke. For what he hopes will be one last hurrah, Mike heads to London with a wealthy socialite who lures him with an offer he can't refuse... and an agenda all her own. With everything on the line, will he be able to pull it off? Stars: Channing Tatum, Salma Hayek Pinault, Caitlin Gerard

“WHAT’S LOVE GOT TO DO WITH IT?” (M) 108 mins Comedy/Romance How do you find lasting love in today's world? For Zoe, swiping right has only delivered an endless stream of Mr. Wrongs. For Kaz, the answer is to follow his parents' example and opt for an arranged marriage to a bride from Pakistan. As Zoe films Kaz's hopeful journey from London to Lahore to marry a stranger, she begins to wonder if she might have something to learn from a profoundly different approach to finding love. Stars: Lily James, Emma Thompson, Shahad Latif

“A MAN CALLED OTTO” (PG) 126 min Comedy/Drama Otto is a grump who's given up on life following the loss of his wife and wants to end it all. When a

“BLUEBACK” (PG) 103 mins Drama/Family Based on the beloved novel by Tim Winton. Blueblack follows Abby, a child who befriends a magnificent wild blue groper while diving. When Abby realizes that the fish is under threat, she takes inspiration from her activist Mum, and takes on poachers to save her friend. Stars: Eric Bana, Mia Wasikowska, Radha Mitchell

young family moves in nearby, he meets his match in quick-witted Marisol, leading to a friendship that will turn his world around. Stars: Tom Hanks, Rachel Keller, Manuel Garcia-Rulfo

“AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER” (M) 192 mins Action/Adventure/Fantasy Jake Sully lives with his newfound family formed on the planet of Pandora. Once a familiar threat returns to finish what was previously started, Jake must work with Neytiri and the army of the Na'vi race to protect their planet. Stars: Zoe Saldana, Sam Worthington, Sigourney Weaver

Emma Mackey plays a laconic and brooding version of the Wuthering Heights writer in Emily

Wake up, ‘Sleeping Beauty’. This ain’t no ‘Science Fiction’, you can believe your eyes – a match made in ‘80s pop heaven is making its way to Airlie Beach in mid-February for a performance of epic proportions.

It’s time to get to The Pub – ‘One Way Or Another’, however you can - because nobody can miss this tribute mash-up of the Divinyls and Blondie, some of the Me-Decade’s biggest female success stories on the world stage.

The Divine Blonde tribute show brings together these two icons of the era in a set of doubleheader shows arriving express from Melbourne to the party paradise of the Whitsundays.

Broken up into two performances backto-back on a single day, Divine Blonde

brings the memories of the ‘80s flooding back – the ‘Pleasure and Pain’ from that Decade of Greed.

First up, Divine Blonde’s lead vocalist, Danni, pays tribute to the late great frontwoman of Aussie rock, Christina Amphlett – that brash, bold brunette – before taking on the role of Blondie’s captivating, punk rock frontwoman Debbie Harry (a beautiful blonde bombshell, to be sure).

As Amphlett, Danni captures the bombastic, wild-child nature of the Sydney singer at her best, taking to the stage in school uniform and fishnet stockings for the complete look, embracing the aggression of a particularly Australian brand of punk rock.

Then, embodying Harry, the Melbourne singer brings the sound of American new

wave punk in the ‘70s back to life, expressing its vibrancy, angst, anger, and expression in ‘Atomic’ fashion – it’s like Harry is on stage. Blondie’s sound was the sound of a more motley decade than most – the ‘70s had no sound to pin itself down and Blondie encapsulated that most. Reggae, progressive rock, new wave, punk, postpunk. Blondie did it all.

Danni runs the repertoire of these incredible artists, singing all their greatest hits: Boys in Town, Only Lonely; Atomic, Hanging on the Telephone, Call Me, Heart of Glass, and all the rest.

‘Picture This’: One of Melbourne’s hottest acts bringing two female icons ‘In The Flesh’ together in one heart-stopping show, then backing it up the very next day on Sunday. It’s a double salute to two iconic women of song, showing off their pio-

neering power in the ‘80s for women in a heavily male-dominated music industry of the ‘70s and ‘80s.

Divine Blonde, the Blondie and Divinyls Show Doubleheader, arrives at the Airlie Beach Hotel on Saturday, February 18, before crashing back onto the Bar Top Stage on Sunday, February 19, to do it all again in back-to-back free shows.

Get ready to hear ‘The Disco Song’ live and loud in this tribute show at The Pub.

WHAT: DIVINE BLONDE! Blondie & Divinyls Show – Double Header!

WHEN: Saturday, 18 February, and Sunday, 19 February, from 2pm to 5.30pm. WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel

Airlie’s First Patisserie Opens Its Doors

The decadent food offering in Airlie Beach has reached a whole new level with the recent opening of Gelatiamo Dolce Patisserie and Gelato store on the Esplanade in the centre of town.

Passers-by will have noticed the vibrant fridge display boasting an array of colourful cakes which beckons in those looking for a sweet treat for morning tea or perhaps a sumptuous dessert to finish off a perfect evening.

A vision of Joe and Deanna Panuccio for many years, the concept began with traditional Gelato made with ingredients sourced directly from Italy. This soon turned into the new addition of a Patisserie, which was made possible with the creative magic of head pastry chef Andrea Manna.

Meanwhile Joe’s sister, Vanessa, is the backbone behind all of the stunning gelato flavours and products in the store.

Having arrived in Australia one year ago, Andrea is astounded by the opportunities presented to him in a country he has now decided to make his own.

A fortuitous Facebook post saw Andrea and Joe connect over a shared passion for creating exciting desserts and cakes.

“Joe asked me if I wanted to open a pastry shop in Airlie Beach, so I booked a flight!” recalls Andrea.

That was six months ago now, and the pair have not looked back.

Initially introducing a small display fridge and extended dessert menu at his nearby restaurant, Paradiso, Joe quickly saw the demand and was thrilled to refit and rebrand his gelato shop to create Gelatiamo Dolce Patisserie and Gelato late last year.

Originally from northern Italy, Andrea grew up in his parent’s restaurant, a business his family owned for over 50 years.

After working at the restaurant for five years he knew that “pastry was my life” and moved to Padua where he studied the craft at Hangar 78.

“I learnt all the skills from so many chefs from all over the world,” said Andrea.

“And now I am bringing them here to Airlie Beach.”

So far, Andrea has introduced the popular Cannoli which is made with puff pastry and house-made own custard, the signature Hazelnut and Chocolate Dome, the Lemon Meringue Pie made with tangy lemon curd, a New York Style Cheesecake with fresh strawberries and, most recently

the stylish Mille Feuille. Every pastry, sauce, cream, ganache and decoration is made from scratch and with love in the dedicated pastry kitchen.

Each individual cake in the display fridge is a treat for the senses - they are exciting masterpieces to behold, fashioned with intricate craftsmanship, and backed up by taste - giving every customer a sensational experience, they will always remember.

Gelatiamo Dolce Patisserie and Gelato are also introducing a selection of pre-order birthday cakes based on a traditional French recipe which involves layers, mousse, and texture.

“They are very fresh and very summery, more like a mousse cake instead of a sponge,” explained Andrea.

“There are lots of layers with different flavours like vanilla and raspberry or pistachio and passionfruit – different textures like a crunch or a mousse – they are so

good and my favourite to make.”

Gelatiamo Dolce also have plans to launch a wedding cake selection soon, as well as the exciting news of branching out and opening a new store in Townsville.

Whether you are looking for a refined morning tea, a sweet treat takeaway or a classy dessert bar, Gelatiamo Dolce Patisserie and Gelato is Airlie’s brand-new offering that is setting a new benchmark in the industry.

The Airlie Beach Hotel is getting set for its Blondie and the Divinyls tribute show starring one of Melbourne’s best singers

Danni takes on the roles of both Christina Amphlett and Debbie Harry in this doubleheader show

Don’t miss all of their best songs from Boys in Town to Only Lonely, Atomic to Hanging on the Telephone, Call Me, and Heart of Glass

Andrea Manna, Head Pastry Chef at Gelatiamo Dolce Patisserie and Gelato in Airlie Beach. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

Photo Credit: Will Finley

Pink Stumps Day Coming Soon

Dress in Pink and get ready for a day of fun, frivolity, and fundraising at the annual Bowen Pink Stumps Day, which is due to be held on Saturday, February 18 at the Bowen Sporting Complex.

The event began in 2005 when famous cricketer Glenn McGrath and his wife Jane started the McGrath Foundation to raise money for people fighting breast cancer.

In 2008, Jane sadly lost her battle with breast cancer at just 42 years old and since then, Pink Stumps Day has become an annual event held in her memory.

Proceeds are used to fund McGrath Breast Care Nurses which are dedicated specialists that help individuals and their families through diagnosis, treatment and life afterwards.

Since 2005 proceeds raised through the McGrath Foundation have funded 193 Breast Care Nurses and the charity organisation has a goal of reaching 250 nurses by 2025.

Events have been taking place right across Australia for the past 14 years and Bowen Cricket Inc has been hosting this lively ladies’ fundraising lunch for several years. In 2022, over 300 women attended the

Bowen Pink Stumps Day and $10,000 was raised for the McGrath Foundation with a further $3,000 gifted to the local Bowen Cancer and Ostomy Support Group.

This year, organisers are expecting another successful event.

“It’s a ladies’ day where everyone can enjoy each other’s company and raise money for an important charity,” said Cricket Club President and Event Organisers Seth McIntosh.

“There will be live entertainment and guest speakers so it should be another event to remember!”

Guest speakers at this year’s event include Tash Leaver from the Bowen Cancer and

Ostomy Support Group, Sonographer Sue Murray who will talk about the impacts of a breast cancer diagnosis, Gemma Duncan who will talk about her breast cancer journey and a breast cancer nurse from Mackay Hospital.

Everyone is asked to dress in pink and invite their friends for a laughter-filled afternoon which will not only help support women living with breast cancer but also provide education and awareness for everyone to take onboard.

Tickets are on sale for $50 per head or $400 for a table of 10.

This includes delicious share platters of food and there will be four licenced bars on-site for guests to purchase drinks.

Life Is A Moving Picture

Being able to follow your passion every day and get paid for it is the dream of many, but for local videographer Will Finley, it is now within arm’s reach.

For the past three years, he has carved out a reputation in the industry and is now working full-time as an independent freelance videographer here in the Whitsundays.

Will first started making videos with a humble GoPro, using every spare moment of his year in America, where he worked as a barman in Las Vegas, to take footage and practice filming techniques.

“My videos back then were pretty amateur,” remembers Will.

“But when I returned to Sydney and got stuck in lockdown during Covid, I spent hours learning about the craft.”

Endless YouTube videos, online tutorials and courses over a period of months taught Will how to make a

range of videos from real estate to travel, commercial and more.

In 2020 Will moved to Airlie Beach with his American girlfriend who was seeking to extend her visa by completing regional work in the area.

Falling in love with the Whitsundays, Will continued with his passion for filming.

“It’s a beautiful spot to film and create videos,” he said.

“And I have since been lucky enough to be involved with many local projects.”

At the end of 2021, Will became a full-time videographer and has not looked back.

“I love the story, the way that a video can tell a story,” he explained.

“Whether it is selling a property or sharing a personal story about what someone has been through – I find every project meaningful in its own way.”

Armed with multiple cameras and drones, which he loves to use both recreationally and commercially, Will can create a range of films.

At the moment he is film-

ing a one-minute clip for an online service called Adopt A Backpacker which involves gathering footage from a range of travellers using the platform.

These include the Ballistic Beer Van and a cocktail bar.

While the women drink and dine, the men will enjoy a game of cricket nearby. There will be two teams vying for the Watts Ducky Lee Shield on the day, this special cup is dedicated to two local men who lost their battles with cancer.

WHAT: Pink Stumps Day

WHEN: Saturday, February 18 - opens at 11.30am

WHERE: Bowen Sporting Complex

TICKETS: $50 per person or $400 for a table of 10

Lament

The moment it takes us to swallow a breath, for some it is life, while others their death. We take it for granted the emotion of ours, everyday things the brain it empowers. What is it in some that triggers this thought, all up to now achieved a big nought.

SO end it I will, and off I’ll go, but hide the emotions in case they will show. Right up to the end so nobody knew, a vision so tunnelled your ultimate view. When a phone call away were all family and friends, whose ears would have loved you to happily bend.

To no avail, you did what you did, we know it’s all over when the dirt’s on the lid. Then it finally sinks in, you’ve done what you’ve done, can no longer talk, hang out and have fun. Your friends they did cry and say what a waste, a sad day indeed for a demise done in haste. The who you were is all we are left, as to the why, with our answers bereft.

Now all we have are the memories dear, Us survivors get stronger, our vision is clear. Because what we have seen in this picture of life, her chapters unfolding, sometimes there’s strife. All in all, not a bad place to be, unfortunately not all think like me.

By Simon Russell

Get your friends together for an afternoon of fun and fundraisingLast year’s event attracted over 300 women

The men will get into the theme, wearing pink for a special game. Photos supplied

Local videographer Will Finley. Photo supplied

This Valentine’s Day show your partner how much you love them with a carefully curated hamper full of hand-picked goodies that show your thoughtfulness and consideration. By working with Whitsunday Gift Hampers, you can not only create a unique and charming gift but you can also be assured that, where possible, the items are sourced from local suppliers.

From sensual bath salts to scented candles, their favourite cocktail or a dreamy blend of Whitsunday tea, satin pyjamas, Valentine themed biscuits or a soft teddy bear - simply call Jo McGregor at Whitsunday Gift Hampers and she can help guide you in the right direction.

“We always try and personalise it to each individual,” said Jo.

“The whole experience of opening the hamper is really special and I always make it with love so that when they open it, they feel that little bit of luxury.”

Whitsunday Gift Hampers deliver for free anywhere in the Proserpine and greater Airlie Beach Area and, your hamper can usually be delivered the same day.

Make your love feel special this Valentine’s Day with a personalised Whitsunday Gift Hamper or contact Jo anytime for any other special occasion and she will be happy to help.

A candle can transform any ambience, create a sensual mood, and bring joy to any room.

The soft glow of a slow-burning wick, the sweet smell of a tangy fragrance – within seconds of lighting a Sweetie Soy Candle you can close your eyes and feel the magic wash over you – the stresses of the day fade away and a new peace and tranquillity alight.

There is no-one that understands the relaxing qualities of a scented candle more than Josie Middleton, owner of Sweetie Soy Candles in Airlie Beach. For the last eight years, she has been making deliciously scented candles and almost two years ago began selling them to an ever-growing fan base of local customers.

“It’s simple really, I love sweet scents and candles bring me joy,” she said. “Scent makes me happy so if I have a nice scent then I am happy and relaxed – I think a lot of other people are the same.”

Josie’s passion for candles was sparked when she was gifted a Black Raspberry candle by a friend.

Once the candle had burnt its last flame, she was desperate to get another but didn’t want to spend a fortune, so she decided to make her own.

Using soy wax and speciality fragrances,

sustainable for the environment and that’s why I love it,” she said.

Customers can choose from a range of sweet fragrances, from floral to zesty, including her favourites Black Raspberry, Vanilla Caramel, Movie Time (chocolate, caramel and popcorn) and Blueberry Cobbler.

Josie can deliver for free anywhere in the Greater Airlie Beach Area within 48 hours’ notice and to Proserpine once a week. All her products and her fragrances are also available on her website and from Whitsunday Creatives in Proserpine and Lush at the Whitsunday Shopping Centre.

Give your Valentine the sweetest gift of all with a hand-made candle that doesn’t just smell good enough to eat – it’ll make you hungry!

Owner of Whitsunday Gift Hampers, Jo McGregor, personally makes each hamper with love.

Photo: Rachael Smith

Josie Middleton’s lovingly hand-made Sweetie Soy Candles.

Photo credit: Rachael Smith

Stella Life Care Celebrates One Year

One of the Whitsundays’ newest community organisations celebrated its first birthday last week, inviting in locals for a celebration which also acted as the official opening of its services to the wider region.

Stella Life Care held the anniversary at its premises on Herbert Street, Bowen, commemorating the occasion as well as the hard work of its almost 20 staff and volunteers whilst keeping an eye to its future.

The company first launched as a disability and aged care support service with the earnest goal of helping the community overall – a challenge those it helps would agree it has certainly risen to.

Basing itself in Bowen, Stella Life Care formed on February 1, 2022, and quickly imbedded itself as one of the towns most valued altruistic organisations.

CEO of Stella Life Care Faileen James said she and her husband Bruce initially arrived in the Whitsundays on holiday when she saw the “genuine need” of the community for a service like Stella Life.

“We did not want to just create an area where only people who are disadvantaged or have a disability or are aged could gather; we wanted to create a space where all the community felt they could be welcome,” Mrs James said.

“As part of that, those people who are disadvantaged, elderly, or disabled can receive the services which they need. Every-

body here today makes up Stella Life Care. We could not do what we do without the support of everybody in this room.

“You have all been a part of our journey.”

Mrs James said over their first year of operation that many of their clients come to Stella at their wits end, ready to give up in applying for benefits they are “actually entitled to” but the “bureaucracy is just too much for them.”

The ceremony was attended by dignitaries from several of Bowen’s community groups alongside clients and Whitsunday Mayor Julie Hall, who said it was “an absolute honour to be asked along to launch Stella Life officially and I wish them a happy, happy birthday.”

“They have already been a shining star in our community,” Mayor Hall said.

“It is very exciting that Stella is celebrating its first year of providing a broad range of services to create positive change in the Whitsundays.”

Stella Life Care’s first ever client, Kay Smith, said without the organisations help, she would never be able to live independently.

“I have had eight strokes, a major heart operation, diabetes, and Stella Life has given me more independence than I could have believed I could have,” Ms Smith said.

“My family isn’t here [in Bowen], so Stella Life are my family.”

In the six F45 studios across Queensland that I have started, this has always been my mission brief: introducing exercise to people’s lives because it can literally save them their life.

I’m Sonny Ivanovic, a qualified personal trainer and the owner of F45 Airlie Beach. In this column, Catch Up With Sonny, I will write about all things fitness every month, sharing what there is to love about the world of physical activity, its benefits, and why it is so important.

Now that the housekeeping is done, here is what I wanted to talk about this week:

Choice can be paralysing.

When a whole gym is in front of you –the rowing machines, the dumbbells, the ellipticals, the various class types –this can be enormously confronting.

In the industry, we are constantly reminding ourselves that stepping into any fitness facility for many, is a huge barrier for most people. It`s something that every single day, stops people from achieving their goal of being fitter and

healthier. Because what do we mean when we want to feel fit? We want to better ourselves, and in turn, better our quality of life, and generally even those closest to us.

The reality is that barrier to entry can comprise of hundreds of reasons not to do something – which in turn can then exist and impact in every facet of our lives.

At my F45 studio, we help people tear down that wall. In some cases, people who have been non-exercisers their whole lives come to us and are not turned away by reasons not to do this, but reasons to do it. For us, it is providing that option for people who want to improve their health – both mental and physical.

I know what we do in this industry is special. We save lives by building confidence, and creating communities for people - plus, where else can you meet 30+ like-minded people all cheering you on?

Sonny Ivanovic

Stella Life Care Director of Client Experience and Marketing Sarah Holland, Whitsunday Mayor Julie Hall, Bruce James, and Stella Life Care CEO Faileen James celebrate the company’s first birthday

Airlie Beach Bowls Report

BOWLS

Airlie Beach Bowls Club has seen a surge of high-class action over the past week with the summer heat bringing out the best in the members.

Tuesday afternoon’s bowls games proved to be scintillating, with the guile of club skipper Margo Stanley and her partner Betty Whitehorn, who is currently in a purple patch, proving to be too much for their opponents Neil Moore and Karen Jensen.

Wednesday’s Jackpot Bowls was equally impressive with Graham Cowling and Mark Mawson emerging as the big winners of the day.

The Wednesday night Business House Bowls also saw some exciting games, but they were cut short due to a tropical storm.

The Saturday morning Scroungers event had three first round winners in Betty Whitehorn, Andy McDougall, and Warren Mills.

Betty’s husband, Tony Whitehorn, won the B division, continuing his success from last season.

The Saturday afternoon Men’s Division tryouts for Pennants were well-organized by John Brown and John Fielding, showcasing the amazing talent in the division.

Sunday afternoon’s Social Bowls, excellently organized by Lyn Graham, saw Craig Coleman as skipper with exciting new bowler Dawn Dowel at lead and reliable Neil Moore at second winning the event.

Article written with information from Mark Mawson

Raring Hot Bowls At Proserpine Club BOWLS

On Wednesday at Proserpine Bowls Club Bruce Uhe and Barry Zillmann defeated John Anderson and Warren Wilson, 19-12, in a game of Three Bowl Pairs.

Alen Sanderson played double lead in a game of Triples which saw himself, Philip Brown, and Mike Harrison draw against, Heather Brown and Mary Hedgelong –with Allen too - 13 all.

On Sunday, Carol Crosbie played double lead in the game between her team of Mike Harrison, and Philip Brown against

Bowen Bowls News BOWLS

The weekly Wednesday Social games at Bowen Bowls Club hosted plenty of familiar faces in tight matchups.

Peter Bruce, Gavin Charles, and Doc Fordham claimed the victory over the team of Robyn Stitt, Jane Gilbert, and Ian Best.

Meanwhile, Mary Ellen Pratten, Lee Welsted, and Steve Roome defeated Peter Thomson, Ross Scanlon, and Mark Rogers.

Then Jan Randall, Allen Williams, and Jeff Tierney joined the winner’s circle, beating the side of Carol O’Connell,Lorraine McArthur, and Jill Brabon.

Ron

defeated Joan Edwards/Eddy

The club would like to inform that there will be no social bowls this weekend as the Men’s Classic will be using the green.

Contributed with thanks to Joan Edwards

Proserpine Golf Report

Clauss, and Pam Harrison.

Bruce Uhe and Heather Brown, with the former side coming out the victor 24-11.

The final match of the week was tightly contested but Alen Sanderson and Peter Lawton defeated John Anderson and Sandy Daffara, 18–15, in the end.

Proserpine Bowls Club extended its thanks to those the diligent workers keeping the club in tip-top shape during the holidays which meant a smooth transition back to the season.

Contributed with thanks to Heather Brown

Wangaratta Bowls Club

Sunday’s Winners at Wangaratta Bowls Club: Sue Shearing, Club President Mark Drummond, Merle Elphinstone, and Greg Colquhoun

BOWLS

On Tuesday, January 31, at Wangaratta Bowls Club, two pairs and one triples were played.

Robyn Stitt and Mark Defranciscis defeated Denise Wallace and Mark Drummond, while Rodney Mumby and Graeme Read defeated Deb Retchless and Allan Rolfe. Gwenda Lyson, Isobel Wheeler, and Penny Warrend were the final side to join the winner’s circle, defeating Bron Tolcher, Merle Elphinstone, Sue Shearing, and Linda Smith.

Sunday’s winners came out on Rink Three:

Merle Elphinstone, Sue Shearing, and Greg Colquhoun defeating Rodney Mumby, Isobel Wheeler, and Allan Rolfe.

Other winners were Laurie Land and Pat Tracey in the match against Linda Scelle and Sugar Brunker. Meanwhile, Deb Retchless, Penny Warren, and Geoff Danvers defeated Bill Myers, Denise Wallace, and Graeme Read.

The final game saw Kent Moriarty and Kennedy Whitton defeat Lyn Danvers and Mark Defranciscis.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

Proserpine Golf Club hosted 22 competitors in the Club’s Tuesday Stableford competition with Michael Jarvis the winner on 39 points, followed by Gary Scotford on 37, and Karl Kirkwood on 36, with Brad Fleet winning the NT., On Wednesday the ladies competed for the PD Law Monthly Medal, with Lyn Muller too good for the rest of the field with a very nice 70 nett, closely followed by Diane Chard on 71, and Trish McNeill on 72 nett.

NTP’s: Trish McNeill, Marlene Gray, Toni

Thursday’s Venue Smart Division One Monthly Medal was won by Gary Scotford on 71 nett, followed by club patron Billy Woods on 71. The Division Two Monthly Medal clear winner was Peter Elms on 64 nett, followed by Adam Tester on 67.

NTP’s: Nick Apruzzese, Mark Davidson, Gary Scotford, and Adam Tester.

Unfortunately, Saturday and Sunday’s competitions were a wash out.

Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Pro Shop

Proserpine Veteran’s Golf

Proserpine Veteran’s Golfers turned out in force on Sunday as 31 players arrived to take on the full course and posting some respectable scores.

The course’s back nine was still heavy due to rain, yet it didn’t put a dampener on Peter Fox who made a remarkable comeback from last week to take out first place with 38 points.

He was followed by Colin Hounsell on a countback from John Strelec also on a

countback from Gary Scotford.

Jenny Hounsell has found herself on a winning streak, claiming the ladies crown last weekend with 33 from Lyn Muller, 32, on a countback from Tiina Randmae.

Pin shots went to Warren Deighton twice, Colin Hounsell, Nic Apruzzese , Gary Scotford, Billy Jesser, Lyn Muller and Helen Deighton, and Jenny Hounsell with two also.

Contributed with thanks to Paula McQuat

Gould, Lou Fordham, Gus Munro who

Neylon, Paula Welsted,Daryl Tuttle.

One of Bowen Bowls Club’s winning teams from Wednesday Social Bowls, comprised of Ron Gould, Lou Fordham, and Gus Munro

GOLF

Proserpine Veteran golfers Jenny Hounsell, Peter Fox, Colin Hounsell, and Lyn Muller

Boating News Tips on navigating safely

• Visibility: Operate slowly in rain, fog, mist, smoke and glare. Take special care when travelling at night as potential hazards are harder to see. Ensure you operate at a safe speed.

• Other boats: Slow down in busy areas and when near moored or anchored boats, and remember — working boats and larger vessels may have difficulty manoeuvring.

• Navigation hazards: Slow down in shallow areas and when boating in unfamiliar water. Water depth can vary and change quickly in and around reef areas, and also in freshwater.

• Wind, waves and currents: These may affect the boat’s stopping and turning ability. The type of motor, hull and design will all impact on the boat’s manoeuvrability.

• Check your navigation lights are working and fitted correctly: We did have to assist one boat this year with the nav lights on the wrong sides! Did not know if he was coming or going!

Collision rules: The ‘International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea’ (COLREGs) are the traffic laws of the sea. They give clear indication about passing, approaching, giving way and overtaking to avoid collisions with other boats. All boat skippers must thoroughly understand and apply the rules in all situations.

Channels: When navigating in narrow channels, all boats should travel on the starboard or right-hand side of the channel and pass oncoming boats on the port side. If plenty of distance separates two passing boats, there’s no need to deliberately alter course to pass to the right of the other boat. The rule is simply there to remove doubt in the event of a close situation. Small boats (including sailing boats) should keep clear of large boats that have limited room to manoeuvre in channels. Giving way: All boats, whether power or sail, must always take action to avoid a collision. Power boats ‘Look all around, give way to the

The Kids Take Over Airlie Beach Parkrun

right, turn to the right and stay to the right’. Head on: When meeting head on, both boats are required to alter course to starboard (right), never to port (left). Any turn should be large enough to be obvious to the other boat.

Overtaking: If you are overtaking a boat, you can do so to either side of the boat you wish to pass.

However, you must keep well clear of the boat you are overtaking. This applies to both sail and powerboats. In narrow channels you must be particularly careful when overtaking. In all instances, make sure you do not cut in front of the boat you have overtaken.

COMMUNITY

The youngest parkrunners took over the weekly event last Sunday, overseeing 79 people run, jog and walk the five-kilometre waterfront course.

Six visitors and a few first timersLeighann, Rosalyn, Justin, and Connor - were welcomed, and seven recorded new personal bests: Jayden, Shay, Steve, Warren, Ian, Michala, and Leigh.

Airlie Beach parkrun also extended its congratulations to Max, who completed his tenth parkrun as a junior.

VMRW membership is cheap insurance at just $90. You can join online at https://vmrwhitsundays.com.au/join/ .

VMRW Activations20232022

Breakdowns January to date 88

Medivacs January to date129

Other Activations January03

Total January to date2020

Activations keep on rolling on, and we are running at the same record level as last year at this stage.

Contributed with thanks to Mal Priday.

The event was made possible by Joshua and his team of 26 dedicated volunteers: Nick, Timothy, Kara, Kirsty, Kelly, Corrine, Nicole, Molly (photographer), Chloe, Lucy, Wendy, Mace, Calvin, Max, Carys, Rhiannon, Jess, Sebastian, Lilliana, Laura, Lynne, Dennis, Addison, Hudson, and Isla.

On Saturday, February 18, Airlie Beach parkrun will be conducting a Pride-themed day, celebrating the inclusivity of all at parkrun, especially the LBQT+ community.

The date aligns with WorldPride day and is supported by parkrun and Proud2Play. All participants and volunteers are encouraged to participate in rainbow sportswear.

Every Saturday Airlie Beach parkrun meets at 6:50am for a briefing at area D,

Coral Sea Marina (adjacent to the top carpark). Parking is free in the lower carpark till 9:30am if a parkrun barcode is placed on the dashboard. Post parkrun coffee and chat is held at Bohemian Raw cafe.

There are no winners at parkrun and nobody comes last – the Tail walkers do. Regular participation is rewarded rather than performance, with ‘parkrun milestone shirts’ available to people to recognise their achievements in coming along.

Contributed with thanks to Airlie Beach parkrun

Airlie Beach parkrun was taken over by the kids last week, who filled the volunteering roles of the successful weekly event

The youngsters took on every role at Airlie Beach parkrun

The Jones Family who travelled from Bowen to celebrate Shay’s birthday with a parkrun

Don’t be a fool, follow the rules and avoid costly errors

VMR

Cannons Find Success in Townsville

Last weekend the Cannonvale Cannons Swimming Club sent 22 athletes to compete at the Townsville Tourist LC Transition Meet.

Coaches Ken Crittenden and Mark Erickson were impressed with all the swimmers and their performances.

The Cannons posted a total of 53 personal best times at the event and many came home with ribbons or medals.

The coaches were excited that Jacob Bell, Holly Perrin, and Remy Hedges were selected for the 13 years and over Skins events, with Jacob eventually finishing second, Holly fourth, and Remy seventh.

Jacob Bell, Ruby Harland, and Celeste Orenshaw were very competitive at the Meet, swimming personal bests and top placing in the majority of their events.

Charlie Doherty had a successful carnival: one of his top swims was his 400-metre Freestyle which he swam in 5.50.96 to earn first place and a 22.58 second personal best (PB).

Charlie’s sister, Evie, was very happy with her second place in the 50-metre Breaststroke, while Nelson Malady swam extremely well in his Butterfly events and 200-metre IM.

Nelson finished second place in his

100-metre Butterfly1.36.96.

Harry and Eloise Chegwidden both swam three PBs and Eloise came first in her 25-metre Freestyle, Backstroke and Breaststroke.

Dylan and Andie Reynolds both swam three PBs, with Dylan’s best swim earning her first place in the 50-metre Backstroke in a time of 46.94 seconds.

Andie impressed with her 100-metre Freestyle which she claimed first place for in 1.33.26.

Levi Smith was outstanding, winning all his races and swimming three PBs. His sister Indi also had a great weekend – her best swim coming in the 50-metre Backstroke.

Don Algie swam extremely well, and his best swim was his 200-metre Freestyle which earnt him first place and a 5.8 second PB.

Even though Jax Clayworth, Thomas Ganter and Remy Hedges did not swim any PBs, they all won six or seven medals.

Zane Clayworth, Tiana Bell, Jack Ganter, Indi Harland, Koa Harland, and Holly Perrin each had an enjoyable carnival, swimming personal bests and earning top plac-

Whitsunday Sailing Report

Twilight Race: 20 knot northerly winds and lumpy seas in the Coral Sea meant a smaller than normal fleet for the Whitsunday Sailing Club’s twilight race on Wednesday, February 1.

Only 10 boats braved the elements – but those who ventured out had an exhilarating experience, with a good view of the incoming thunderstorm looming from behind.

The first fleet away appeared to be caught out by the conditions and leaving their run to the start too late.

Only Twister (Kevin Fogarty) made the start look easy, leading the fleet away, but they were soon engulfed by the faster boats in the fleet.

Bobby’s Girl (Mark Beale) was delayed with a last minute sail change, allowing QMS Ponyo (John Galloway), Reignition (Charles Wallis), and Smooth Criminal (Leo Rodriguez) to lead at the first mark.

QMS Ponyo held a comfortable lead throughout as Bobby’s Girl worked back through the fleet, made easier when a clumsy mark rounding by Smooth Criminal delayed their progress.

While all the action was at the front, Twister kept everyone on their toes, stay-

ing close enough to the leaders to take the corrected time win over QMS Ponyo and Reignition

A more aggressive start in Division Three saw Rossgo (Greg Hammon) leading the fleet away, but once again, Wobbly Boot (Craig Piccinelli) soon took the lead.

The challenge for Rossgo was to try to keep Masquerade (Tom Vujasinovic) behind, but the smaller Masrm 750 found a way through, with these two boats in close proximity through the race, while Shiraz (John Cable) had a series of issues delaying their progress.

All looked good until Wobbly Boot slowed with a split mainsail, reducing their progress sailing under headsail alone.

They had just enough of a lead to cross the finishing line first, just in front of Masquerade and Rossgo. This left Masquerade the winner on corrected time from Rossgo and Lama (Jim Hayes).

Races continue every Wednesday from 4:30pm, with limited crewing positions available. Those wishing to participate as crew need to be at the club by 2:30 pm (limited spots available).

Contributed with thanks to Ross Chisholm

ings their age groups.

The Cannonvale Cannons extended its congratulations to club members and a big thanks to parents.

Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen

The Cannonvale Cannons swimming club at the Townsville Tourist LC Transition Meet

Sailboat Reignition, which this week lost out on corrected time to QMS Ponyo at Whitsunday

Whitsunday Regional Council - Public Notices & Tenders

10 February 2023

Upcoming Rates Issue

Residents are advised that rates will be issued across the Whitsunday Region early February 2023.

Rates Concessions

Are you an owner occupier?

Council is seeking information from the owners of residential properties, which is their principal place of residence and is also single residential use, within the Whitsunday area, in order to categorise properties correctly for the benefit of a lower differential general rate.

Eligible parties are asked to complete the form and return it to the Council by the due date of the next rate notice. If you are already receiving the owner occupier benefit, you do not need to reapply.

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 second half of the 2022/2023 year.

Pensioners who received the maximum benefits in the 2021/2022 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.

Help Shape the Future of Arts and Music in the Whitsundays!

Council have developed an Arts, Culture & Heritage Plan - Discussion Paper following a series of community brainstorming sessions and surveys with cultural, music and arts stakeholders last year.

The purpose of the Discussion Paper is to summarise findings from consultation and gather any further feedback or clarifications from the community, prior to the final development of the Heart of our Identity: Arts, Culture & Heritage Plan 2023 - 2028.

Have your say on the Discussion Paper before Sunday 19 February 2023.

Visit our Online Engagement Portal yoursay. whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au to complete an online

survey or email whitsundayachplan@gmail.com. Richmond Road, Bowen - road works, road closures and detours

Whitsunday Regional Council is preparing to undertake road works on Richmond Road, between West Street and Mount Nutt Road from the 14th February until May, weather depending. The purpose of the works is to construct a new culvert structure with 16 cells. A detour will be provided via Argyle Park Road, Jillets Road and Mount Nutt Road.

The existing culvert structure is beyond its useful life and is in poor condition. The road is often closed following heavy rainfall in the local area which affects nearby businesses, schools, public transport and council depot operations. The new structure has been modelled to cater for 1 in 100 year flows which should reduce the need to close the road in the future.

We apologise for the necessary works and will manage impacts with businesses and community

ACROss

1 Risk (6)

4 Used to store food at very low temperatures (7)

7 Lizards able to change colour (10)

11 Hire (6)

12 Mobile home (7)

13 Stringed instrument (5)

14 Little lake (4)

15 Crush (6)

18 Monstrous (10)

19 Cab (4)

20 Nerve cell (6)

21 Male pig (4)

22 Donut-shaped bread roll (5)

24 Woodwind instrument (8)

27 Decorative inlaid work (6)

28 Xerophyte (6)

31 Unpolished (5)

34 Ignominious failure (6)

35 Devotional song (5)

37 Abbreviation (7)

38 Car framework (7)

41 Fibre used in sacking (4)

42 Crust that forms over a wound (4)

43 Aboriginal spearthrowing device (7)

44 Improve (7)

45 Burp (5)

47 Government department (6)

48 Submit (5)

50 Rural (6)

52 Poems (6)

53 Word blindness (8)

55 Fruit (5)

58 Tome (4)

59 Muslim place of worship (6)

61 Employer (4)

63 Unbelievable (10)

64 Indecent (6)

66 Extinct bird (4)

67 Grinding tooth (5)

68 Plant of the genus Nicotiana (7)

69 A spice (6)

70 Play runthroughs (10)

71 Openess (7)

72 Bivalve mollusc (6)

DOWN

2 Single-celled freshwater organism (6)

3 Rough (8)

4 Concentrate attention on (5)

5 Inspector (8)

6 Jogger (6)

7 Pupal casing (6)

8 Mosquito-born disease (7)

9 Expressions used in place of something offensive (10)

10 Enjoying inflicting pain (8) 16 Miss (5) 17 Scary genre (6) 23 Mountain danger (9) 25 Related to sense of smell (9) 26 Overstate (9)

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

TODAY's

Garden Maintenance

Did you know?

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

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

Sophisticated Rural Lifestyle

Situated on a stunning 2 hectares (4.9 acres) in Holloway Drive, this property is a must-inspect to truly appreciate the beauty. Only two years young and showcasing meticulous attention to detail and quality features, this architecturally designed and custom-built residence offers a Hampton-style country charm and is effortlessly sophisticated.

Walk through the main door and discover the eastern wing which exhibits an upscale setting, with a luxurious open-plan kitchen, dining, and living space. Blackbutt tongue and groove flooring complement the entire decor, showing that no expense was spared with this beautiful home.

Stepping inside, a wealth of space exists in the entire household. The master bedroom is very impressive offering an oversized walk-in-robe and an immaculately designed ensuite overlooking the beauty of acreage. Walk down the wide corridor to the main bathroom and two spacious bedrooms each with its own private balcony.

Architecturally designed to bring the outdoors in and embrace the Whitsunday lifestyle, this property captures the breeze and light in every direction. Step outside to enjoy a dip in the ‘Martini

Edge’ inground pool overlooking the serenity. The property also boasts an expansive 3-bay shed with a 3.6m high clearance roller door, perfect for the large boat and to store many other toys, and an added benefit additional double undercover carport.

All this being only minutes into Cannonvale or the same to Proserpine.

This very unique acreage property located here in the Whitsundays is one of a kind and is the lifestyle that YOU have been looking for.

Key Features:

• Well-established home on 2ha (4.9 acres) y shed 10x12m with big roller door at 3.6m height and the other two doors at 3m ound pool - 1.9m depth Most finishes and building materials ar Bore and 2x rainwater tanks offering 142,000L in total con throughout the property ully fenced paddocks for your horses/animals

Air conditioning

AUCTION: Tuesday 28th February at 6pm

TAYLORS OFFICE: 98 Shute Harbour Rd, C’Vale

42 Holloway Drive, Sugarloaf

325Y OPEN HOME: Friday 4:00pm - 4:30pm Saturday: 11:00am - 11:45am

BED BATH CAR POOL

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

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

OPEN HOME: Friday 4:00pm - 4:30pm, Saturday: 11:00am - 11:45am

Sophisticated Rural Lifestyle

Situated on a stunning 2 hectares (4.9 acres) in Holloway Drive, this property is a must-inspect to truly appreciate the beauty.

Only two years young and showcasing meticulous attention to detail and quality features, this architecturally designed and custom-built residence offers a Hampton-style country charm and is effortlessly sophisticated. Walk through the main door and discover the eastern wing which exhibits an upscale setting, with a luxurious open-plan kitchen, dining, and living space. Blackbutt tongue and groove flooring

complement the entire decor, showing that no expense was spared with this beautiful home. Stepping inside, a wealth of space exists in the entire household. The master bedroom is very impressive offering an oversized walk-in-robe and an immaculately designed ensuite overlooking the beauty of acreage. Walk down the wide corridor to the main bathroom and two spacious bedrooms each with its own private balcony.

Architecturally designed to bring the outdoors in and embrace the Whitsunday lifestyle, this property captures the breeze and light in every direction.

Step outside to enjoy a dip in the ‘Martini Edge’ inground pool overlooking the serenity. The property also boasts an expansive 3-bay shed with a 3.6m high clearance roller door, perfect for the large boat and to store many other toys, and an added benefit additional double undercover carport.

All this being only minutes into Cannonvale or the same to Proserpine.

This very unique acreage property located here in the Whitsundays is one of a kind and is the lifestyle that YOU have been looking for.

AUCTION: Tuesday 28th February at 6pm

TAYLORS OFFICE: 98 Shute Harbour Rd, C’Vale 42 Holloway Drive, Sugarloaf

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

BED

Renovators Wanting A Family Home Plus Granny Flat

This large & unique home offers loads of hidden treasures, with a huge 882m2 yard, side vehicle access, and the ability to make some extra income renting the granny flat.

• Privacy, Mountain views, and plenty of undercover space to entertain

• Fully self-contained granny flat / great investment opportunity

• Open Plan living, Great size Kitchen & breakfast bench

• Scope for improvement & ample opportunity for creative enhancement

• Fully fenced yard, plenty of shade, perfect for the kids and pets

Extra deep lockup garage + storage room

Hop, Skip & A Jump To The Beach!

4 Hall Dr, Wilson Beach, Queensland is a beautiful and spacious threebedroom home. The property boasts an open-plan living and dining area with large windows that let in plenty of natural light, making the home airy and bright.

• Extra-large undercover patio area, perfect for outdoor entertaining

• Supersized shed - Featuring 6 bays with lockable doors measuring L17m x W9m x H3.4m

• Wilsons Beach offers boat ramp access and is the gateway to both deep sea fishing and the best estuary fishing the region has to offer.

FOR SALE: $599,000 38 Tropic Road, Cannonvale

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

BED

FOR SALE: 4 Hall Drive, Wilson Beach

CONTACT: Melinda Butcher 0400 773 478 melinda@taylorspropertyspecialists.com.au

BED

WorldWatch. 12.00 WorldWatch. 1.00 Speedweek.

3.00 Figure Skating. European Championships. Highlights. 4.30 Destination Flavour China Bitesize.

4.40 Secrets Of The Tower Of London. 5.30 WWII Battles For Europe. 6.30 News. 7.30 Ancient Egypt By Train. 8.30 Dan Snow’s Greatest Discoveries. 9.30 Expedition Bermuda Triangle. 11.00 24 Hours In Emergency. 11.55 24 Hours In Emergency. 12.50 Pandemic 2020. 4.00 The Source.

4.50 Destination Flavour.