Whitsunday Life

Office/Classifieds/Funeral Notices; Main: 0429035046

EMAIL Editorial: editorial@mackayandwhitsundaylife. com

Advertising: bookings@mackayandwhitsundaylife.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Rachael Smith – 0417267373 rachael@mackayandwhitsundaylife.com

PUBLISHER

Rebecca Douthwaite bec@mackayandwhitsundaylife.com

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT MANAGER

Mike McCann – 0427897960 michael@mackayandwhitsundaylife.com

JOURNALIST: Declan Durrant declan@mackayandwhitsundaylife.com

SUBSCRIBE FOR FREE mackayandwhitsundaylife.com

Publishers Indemnity. Those who make advertising placement and/or supply copy material or editorial submissions to Mackay and Whitsunday Life Paper, undertake to ensure that all such material does not infringe any copyright, trademark, defamation, libel, slander or title, breach of confidence, does not contain anything obscene or indecent, or does not infringe the Trade Practices Act or other laws, regulations or statutes. Further to the above mentioned these persons agree to indemnify the publisher and/or its agents against any investigations, claims or judgements. All material is correct at time of printing and is copyright of CORE Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.

SQUAT TILL YOU DROP

Editor’s Note

Hi Everyone, Let’s talk Easter Bonnets!

This week my son and I created a Minecraft Easter Bunny ‘Bonnet’ for his school parade which was held on Wednesday.

I’m sure many of you out there have also been part of the excitement of this crafty Easter tradition – paint splotches on the carpet, sticky fingers on couches, half-complete projects abandoned . . . and there you are at 9 o’clock in the evening glueing last minute accessories onto the masterpiece!

It’s a wonderful tradition, and I truly enjoyed spending time with my son, watching his eyes light up as a cardboard box was transformed into a Minecraft-inspired Easter bunny.

Squares were wonky and excess glue was making the paper creased, I found myself trying to correct his placements, make it perfect – but then I stopped myself and let go – this wasn’t a display of great parenting, this was an expression of creative joy, a

project for him.

When we got to school, he was proudly wielding his bonnet, which was actually more like a mask, and I watched as his friends gathered.

Everyone was showing off their hats and other kids were keen to see what it was like inside the Minecraft Bunny.

Apparently, when he did his roll call in his classroom this morning he asked his teacher to call him Minecraft Bunny –“good morning Mrs Bunny” – he said afterwards.

As we all enjoy the Easter festivities, let’s remember that family and friends are at the heart of everything we do – quality time is the most important gift we can give anyone – so call your parents, spend time with your children, say hi to your neighbours and stop to talk to a stranger on the street.

Rach

“Life is what happens when you are busy making other plans” (John Lennon)

Alocal mum and her fitness coach are on a month-long challenge of 57 squats per day – a combined total of 38,874 squats - to fundraise for the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

Over the month of march, Kerry Dibbin joined forces with ‘A Fit Life by Tonya’ to raise awareness for the current 57 Australians diagnosed daily with breast cancer, having raised $4,482 so far.

Ms Dibbin, who had decided to undertake the national fundraising effort, also recently invited the Proserpine Rugby League Club to join her in one day of the challenge after bringing the idea up to her son’s Under 12 team.

“When we spoke with the Club, they were so quick to jump on board and very supportive. It was just terrific,” Ms Dibbin said.

Proserpine Brahmans Club President Justin Folley said the entire club joined in, and that it was an obvious choice to do so with the club having been touched by Breast

Cancer on more than one occasion.

“We were keen to do whatever we could to support the 57 Squat Challenge,” he said.

Ms Dibbin, who trains with local fitness coach Tonya Dunne in her A Fit Life by Tonya group, soon had her coach and her coach’s participants signed up too.

“Given my line of work as a Personal Trainer the idea of the NBCF 57 Squat Challenge resonated and I thought, now this is something I can do to support my family and friends fighting this terrible disease,” Tonya Dunne said.

“I want to make a difference in the lives of those 57 Australians impacted by the disease – that’s why I’m taking on the 57 Squat Challenge, to raise vital funds for worldclass breast cancer research. Everyone knows someone who has or has had Breast Cancer.”

To learn more and make a donation please visit https://fundraise.nbcf. org.au/fundraisers/afitlifebytonya

ROOF TOP

interior

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

The Proserpine Brahmans Junior Rugby League Club joined a fundraising effort by a local mum and her trainer who are squatting 57 times per day to fundraise for Breast Cancer

Elevated to capture the Whitsunday breeze, you can celebrate with incredible food, your own private bar whilst enjoying the chic, spacious

287 SHUTE HARBOUR RD, AIRLIE BEACH

“Commercial Fishing Is Being Run Out Of Business”

Members of the local fishing industry are gravely concerned that their livelihood will soon be ruined following a series of strict quotas that they say make it unfeasible to operate. They believe that these quotas are being forged upon inaccurate statistics that incorrectly assert that the Great Barrier Reef marine environment has been over-fished despite it being plentiful and abundant.

The owner of Fish D’Vine in Airlie Beach, Kev Collins, said that he gets 85 per cent of his fish from local fishers but is worried this will soon dry up.

“We used to have one of the best managed fisheries in the world,” he said.

“But now they seem to be determined to run commercial fishing out of business.”

Mr Collins is frustrated that while local tourism is centred around fresh local produce, the quotas on seafood such as Mud Crab and Mackerel make it unfeasible for small independent fishing businesses to supply the restaurant industry.

“One fishery after another is being shut down,” he said.

“It’s not viable to go fishing any more – we are trying to promote sustainable seafood as a linchpin, but we can’t sell fish!

“It’s built on statistics and lies – so they can

easily manipulate it for the ‘green vote’.”

Mr Collins says that 20 years ago 33 per cent of the reef was closed-off to protect fish stock and he believes this should now be replenished.

“It should now be back up to 100 per cent stock and there should be spill over,” he explains.

“Fisherman are catching plenty of fish, but they are still saying that Spanish Mackerel is still at 17 per cent – it just doesn’t add up!”

Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm and Shadow Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Tony Perrett, met with members of the local fishing industry last week to hear of their concerns.

At the meeting Ms Camm and Mr Perrett said they would lobby the government to review the science and data methodology used to make changes to the Spanish Mackerel industry.

“The changes to the Spanish Mackerel industry highlight the government’s refusal

On The Beat

WARNING: CONFRONTATIONAL SALESMAN

Whitsunday police received reports regarding behaviour of a 50– to 60-year-old man with tanned complexion and short dark hair who frequents business and shopping centre car parks.

The heavy-set man is allegedly insistently and confrontationally approaching elderly or vulnerable shoppers and offering services to repair damaged vehicle windscreens.

Anyone with safety concerns should contact police immediately.

VESSEL TRESPASSERS CHARGED

to listen to Queenslanders,” Shadow Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Tony Perret said.

“These changes have the potential to destroy many small businesses and possibly the industry, and the government won’t explain to the industry their data methodology even when it has been questioned by many.”

“I encourage the Queensland Government to start listening to Queenslanders, especially our fishers and farmers that are drowning in red tape imposed by this outof-touch government.” said Ms Camm.

Two people were charged for allegedly entering a vessel moored in Airlie Beach at The Beacons on March 26 at 12.30am. It’s alleged the caretaker of a moored 30-metre-long vessel found two males in the cabin. The men decamped after being verbally challenged.

Police checked CCTV footage, conducted interviews, and patrolled the area before subsequently arresting and charging a 28 year old male Brisbane resident. He will appear in the Proserpine Magistrates Court on April 17 for charges of trespass and unlawful entry of a vessel.

A 27-year-old Caboolture man was arrested on the same charges and an additional charge of unlawful possession of a dangerous drug (cocaine) and will appear in court on the same date.

Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm and Shadow Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Tony Perrett, met with members of the local fishing industry last week to hear of their concerns. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

Students Organise Charity Event

Cowboys Legend Inspires Kids

Legendary Cowboys player Ray Thompson delivered a powerful message to parents and caregivers at a special event held at Genius Childcare in Cannonvale on Monday evening.

The retired sportsman, who played for the Cowboys from 2005 to 2017, is now the Cowboys Community Engagement Programs Officer and works directly with schools delivering The Resilience Project around the country.

Founded by Hugh van Cuylenberg, The Resilience Project helps people live a happy and fulfilled life by teaching them the key principals of gratitude, empathy and mindfulness.

suicide in 2015, passing on this inspiring message is a way to help future generations lead happy lives and hopefully save others from reaching a point of despair.

“I feel proud and humbled to have this power and opportunity to help others,” he said on the night.

Cannonvale State School held its first Silent Art Auction on Monday night and, with almost 70 pieces of artwork up for grabs, guests were treated to an array of high-quality art produced and donated by creative students.

An entirely student-driven charity art event, Principal Angie Kelly said she was incredibly proud of the year five students who had organised the evening.

Charlotte Behnck, Harlow Ruge, Charli Scott, Evie Berry and Eleanor Turner are the group of classmates who first came up with the idea to sell their artwork.

After a few more brainstorming sessions it was decided that the funds raised would be given to charity and that a silent auction could get more students involved.

The outcome was a fantastic evening supported by teachers and family with over $1000 raised on the night.

All funds raised were donated to the Sun-

rise School in Uganda and will be put towards a much-needed renovation of the dormitories.

Cannonvale State School have been supporting Sunrise School for the past seven years and first started regular donations when they discovered 300 orphans were being schooled under a tree.

Since then, our local school has hosted many charity drives which have helped Sunrise School build a school building.

They have also provided money for a generator to give them electricity, delivered food during Covid and recently paid for a toilet block that was needed in order for the Ugandan government to let the school stay open.

“The concept of giving to others is incredibly important,” said Principal Kelly.

“One of the most meaningful things we can do as a school is help facilitate this on behalf of our students.”

Hugh first discovered the magical properties of happiness when he visited a poor town in India where the children had nothing but were incredibly happy.

He used his observations to inspire the Resilience Project and has since visited sporting clubs, businesses and community groups across the country teaching people how to deal with failure, stress and challenges.

The Resilience Project now has a national following and many ambassadors. For Ray Thomson, who lost a friend to

“Every single person fails; everyone experiences a traumatic event in their lives –yet 65 per cent of adults won’t seek help when they go through a tough time.”

Ray hopes that by sharing key tools to parents and caregivers at early learning centres, this will better equip children to handle challenges at a young age. This event was funded by the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network and is in addition to the $14,000 they provided for similar projects at other childcare centres in 2022.

If this article has triggered any challenging emotions call Lifeline on 131114.

“I MUST ASK YOU TO LEAVE”

AWhitsunday local and ex-Mayoral candidate interrupted the recent Whitsunday Regional Council Meeting to pose questions regarding misconduct findings against a senior Councillor.

During Council’s Questions from the Public Gallery in its Wednesday, March 22, meeting, Phil Batty stood to query Council on matters relating to Councillor Michael Brunker’s recent misconduct hearing.

Mr Batty had been denied the right to ask his questions in the regular forum, yet still stood during the allotted public question time to display his disagreement.

“I will stand at this stage, Mayor, and have my say,” Mr Batty said.

“You have shut me down four times and I’m going to continue speaking. You’ve let Councillor Brunker humiliate and vilify me at the last meeting and I won’t stand for it.”

Mr Batty’s comments refer to the March 8 meeting in which Councillor Brunker was fined $500 and asked to apologise after using Council assets during the Mayoral election campaign last year – the now-substantiated allegation of which was first

brought to light by Mr Batty.

In his statement at that meeting, Councillor Brunker had, without referring to Mr Batty by name, alluded to the “failed mayoral candidate who has lodged this complaint”, saying he felt “embarrassed for him” – this is the “vilifying” Mr Batty alleges.

Mayor Julie Hall was quick to see Mr Batty leave the Council Meeting for his impertinence, telling him he had been refused his questions and that if he wished to pursue the matter further, to do so with State or Federal regulatory bodies.

“This matter has already been dealt with, and if you have any further issues, Mr Batty, it is an OIA [Office of the Independent Assessor] or CCC [Corruption and Crime Commission],” Mayor Hall said. “Refer it to them.”

Mr Batty told this publication that he has reported Mayor Hall and Councillor Brunker to the OIA regarding his allegations of their breaching the Local Government Act.

Whitsunday Regional Council said the matter had already been dealt with and had no further comment.

The Silent Art Auction event organisers - Charli Scott, Evie Berry, Charlotte Behnck, Eleanor turner and Harlow Ruge. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

Cowboys legend Ray Thompson and Genius Early Learning Centre Manager, Bec Shultz. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

from rangers to put their pets on a lead. Norma Strang and Paula Medley are part of a group of around 20 individuals who meet casually most mornings at the New Beach in Airlie.

“I moved here about 14 months ago and every friend I’ve made is from the beach,” said Paula.

“It’s a big community of friends and I love swimming here – I need to get in the water, and clear my head before starting the day.”

Norma added that she sees no need for the Council to change the rules.

“What’s the problem?” she said.

“The people are great, this is our morning mental health, our dogs are fine, we pick up after them and they are no trouble.

“We just want a few hours for us here with the dogs early morning - we are ratepayers too and our dogs need exercise off the lead”.

Director of Community Services for Whitsunday Regional Council, Julie Wright said that Boathaven Beach has always

will be replaced in the coming days.

“The on-leash signage is still in place at the eastern end of Boathaven Beach and dogs are not permitted to swim inside the stinger enclosure.”

Julie recommends that the group meet at the eastern end of Cannonvale beach which is an off-leash area from 5am-8pm daily except from 8am-9am and 2.30pm3.30pm on school days.

Norma has been investigating the legal rights of dog owners and asserts that the beach is in international waters and is therefore not within the Council’s jurisdiction.

In response to that, Council said that Local Law considers it a ‘public place’ when referring to animals under effective control, so the argument of international waters is invalid.

She also added that Council had received “several complaints in the past six weeks from residents complaining that their families have been harassed by dogs off the lead at Boathaven Beach”.

“As a result, Local Laws teams will increase patrols to enforce the on-leash status,” she said.

There are no current plans for Council to

change the restrictions, but the group believe that allocated off-leash times would allow all ratepayers to live freely and they remain hopeful that restrictions could change.

402 ‘Relocatable Homes’ Approved For Bowen

An over 50s estate comprised of 402 demountable dwellings in Mt Gordon was approved by Whitsunday Regional Council last week at an Ordinary Council Meeting.

Developers Grumpy Capital Pty. Ltd. were successful in their application to build the home park on Lodge Road, Mount Gordon - a site south of Bowen and along the Bruce Highway.

The master-planned development will home 402 “relocatable dwellings” sites – a mix of three- and two-bedroom single-story demountable homes with outdoor alfresco living areas and open spaces, kitchens, laundry toilets, shower amenities, and double garages.

Whitsunday Regional Council Director Planning and Development Neil McGaffin said this development was part estate part caravan park: “It’s a mixture between the two and is something very exciting.”

“This is a ‘relocatable home park,’” Mr McGaffin said.

“The construction methods are concrete slabs on the ground but are built so that, if it is needed, they can be relocated. This is normally what you would see in a caravan park, but the dwellings are there a lot longer than a park. It will resemble a residential estate in respect to fences and private areas.”

Aside from homes, the Mt Gordon estate

will have a sales office, residents workshop, RV washdown facility, community gardens including a mango orchard, a dog park and 2.3-kilometres of walking trails. Whitsunday Mayor Julie Hall said she wished that residents of the Whitsundays were privy to private Council documents which illustrate the homes as “They don’t look like normal relocatable homes, they’re actually quite beautiful.”

Grumpy Capital documents state the project will be completed over seven stages with stage one comprising the supply of reticulated water, sewerage and road infrastructure.

The company – trading under Tactica Planning and Development - estimate a potential for more than 1000 residents to live at the site.

Discussions are ongoing with Transport and Main Roads regarding the implementation of public transport for the estate, which will be over seven kilometres from the nearest shopping centre.

Local dog owners enjoying an off-leash swim with their friendly pooches at New Beach in Airlie. Photo credit: Rachael Smith.

master-planned

relocatable home estate for over 50s will be built south of Bowen after receiving Whitsunday Regional Council approval

Proserpine’s Youth Of The Year Final

Proserpine Lions Club

Youth of the Year and Proserpine State High School student Scarlett Foti competed in the district final of Youth of the Year, representing the Proserpine Lions club on Saturday, March 18.

Having won both Overall Winner and Public Speaking awards at first Club level in Proserpine, and then again at Zone level in Home Hill, Scarlett headed to the Townsville Lions Club for the district level competition.

Five accomplished teenagers from across North Queensland took part with their speaking performances ranging from “polished and persuasive to charming and humorous.”

“It made for an entertaining night for the audience, albeit a very difficult one for the judges. It was an extremely close result again this year,” Proserpine Lion’s Youth of the Year Chair Jane Betteridge said.

The Overall winner was Yaseen Al Kahlout from Malanda State High School. Yaseen also won the Community award for participation in his community.

Proserpine Lions congratulated Scarlett on her excellent performance and her response to the impromptu topics, “There is

Chamber Chat

With April just around the corner, that’s the third quarter of Financial year 2023 done and dusted.

Allan Milostic, President of the Whitsunday Coast Chamber of Commerce

no such thing as normal” and “We know artificial intelligence is presenting fantastic possibilities, but what do you see as its downsides?” was articulate, well timed and thought-provoking.

“Congratulations Scarlett; another great effort,” Ms Betteridge said.

“Proserpine Lions Club is proud to call you one of our own.”

Scarlett now moves on to her next project - establishing a programme to help neurodivergent children within the Proserpine community study effectively and cope with stress during high school.

How have you performed? Have you met your goals? Or have you just been tied up in the busy-ness of getting through the day to day life? How much personal development have you done? How much training? Workforce is changing and clearly we all need to work smarter, more efficiently and be more inclusive of your team. Take some time to reflect over the mini breaks coming up in April.

Speaking of school holidays and the multitude of public holidays in April, whilst disruptive for a lot of businesses, it is a boom period for tourism. A great time of year for many local businesses coming out of a traditionally quiet time.

A period of change for Chambers across Queensland with the rebranding of CCIQ. It is not just a name change, although the new name Business Chamber Queensland is certainly indicative of the focus and sole purpose of the organisation – it’s about putting business first at all times. New CEO Heidi Cooper is committed to sup-

porting the state’s networks of chambers. More change for your local Chamber as we embark on an unprecedented period of reinvigoration and expansion. Before we welcome the new recruits, a huge thank you to outgoing Secretary Kerrie Southee – tirelessly working in the background organising events, filtering correspondence and keeping the wheels turning. Thanks Kerrie.

The chamber is looking to vastly improve its engagement with members and decided to expand the role of secretary to include an active member liaison role. We were extremely lucky to have several quality applicants and even luckier to retain the services of Dr Julia and Richard Evans who bring a wealth of experience through their business consultancy firm and roles on other Boards. Welcome Julia and Richard. In addition, the interview process has bolstered our committee further with a couple of strategic appointments tying into one of the announcements to be made at our next networking function, Thursday 20th April at 7am.

From Alan Milostic, Whitsunday Coast Chamber of Commerce.

Youth of the Year (YOTY) District Chair Pat Young, Townsville Ignatius Park College student Daniel Mosch, St Patricks College Mackay student Megan Connolly, St Augustines College Cairns student Darcy Oates, Proserpine State High School student Scarlett Foti, and Malanda State High student Yaseen Al Kahlout at the YOTY District Final

Hi Rach, Long time reader, first time emailer.

Firstly I wanted to say thanks for sharing your coffee chat with Julie. Secondly & the reason for my email is that I had no idea about what happened to Luke! My heart goes out to his family & I am outraged to hear this stuff happens here in Australia let alone in our own backyard. The amount of police force used is shocking, I don’t blame the mother for seeking justice, this is simply not right.

Thank you for sharing her story & supporting her. I am only 1 person but I want to sign her petition - can you please share these details or publish in next week’s paper & please keep the community posted on how this progresses.

Many thanks, Jasmin Bedford Eimeo, Mackay.

Hi Jasmin, thank you for your email. You can access Luke’s petition by going to the family’s Facebook page ‘Justice for Luke (Luke Gilbert)’ and click the pinned link to the petition. Or you can head directly to change.org and look him up there.

I am writing about two articles, that appeared in your paper on February 17 & February 24, 2023.

Both of these articles are NOT factual and are very misleading to the public. It was very distressing to read them.

I personally witnessed the attack on the steer, and along with a neighbour John, had to fight off 3 DOGS that were mauling a steer. In the first article posted on 17/02, the owner of the dogs claimed “three of her dogs escaped and ALLEGEDELY attacked cattle”. The truth was, all 7 of her dogs had escaped. Although, some were not directly involved in this horrendous attack, they were barking and yapping at the 3 steers. They had 1 steer on the ground, biting him and dragging him and all he could do was bellow in pain and was defenceless against 3 dogs.

I have attached a photo taken the morning after the attack by Christina’s dogs in the stables of the neighbour’s property. The 3 steers fled their property and ran through barbed wire fences in terror. The 2nd photo is a few days later after the steers were calm enough to come back to their own paddock. They were and still are, very skittish.

In the second article posted on the 24/02, the owner claimed that only 2 dogs escaped “and one of them bit a cow on the neck”! This is in vast contrast to what happened. I am aware that there were 3 witness statements provided to the council.

Contrary to the owner’s claims, this was an unprovoked attack to the steers by her dogs. I am aware that 1 dog was put down.

Since the incident at no stage has the owner of the dogs apologised for their behaviours, inquired about the health of the steer attacked or asked after my wellbeing in regard to this horrendous and vicious attack.

I hope that this letter serves to provide a more balanced view of the facts.

Angela Herschel

The author of this letter is referring to an incident where some dogs escaped a local residence and subsequently attacked a cow. She was looking after the property at the time and was first on the scene. After receiving this email, I called Angela and we had a good conversation. She was clearly traumatised and wanted to ensure that both sides of the story were understood by the community. If you wish to read the full articles you can view them here: bit.ly/3GgW8px and bit.ly/3LTjHs3.

Councillor Column With Councillor John Collins

At Wednesday’s Council Meeting in Bowen, I put forward a notice of motion in regards to the proposed duplication of the Proserpine River Boat Ramp at Conway.

I asked that Council authorise the CEO and the Director of Engineering to seek an update from the Department of Main Roads and Transport (DTMR), and advocate for the long-awaited proposed expansion of the Proserpine River Boat Ramp on Conway Beach Road.

On the 23rd October, 2016 there was a State Country Cabinet Meeting held in Proserpine.

A press release was put out by DTMR stating that there was going to be a duplication of the existing boat ramp on the Proserpine River. Six and a half years later - we are still waiting.

Fishing and boating are two of the most popular recreational activities in our region. One in ten people in the Whitsunday/Mackay region own a boat.

I’ve been contacted many times over the years regarding this since it was first raised

by the Minister in 2016. I have asked the question many times and haven’t really received a satisfactory answer. Our residents have been waiting six and a half years for this to happen, hopefully raising this will finally help it come to fruition.

DTMR is also undertaking a planning project for future improvement to the flood immunity of the Bruce Highway at Goorganga Plains and Myrtle Creek.

The project will plan and preserve the road corridor and investigate options to flood proof the highway during our wet season.

TMR would like to know about your experience of wet weather impacts on the Bruce Highway between Goorganga Plains and Myrtle Creek and your feedback on preferred future flood immunity upgrades.

Your feedback will be considered as part of the planning process and will help TMR finalise the business case.

My concern is that like the boat ramp, the project is not currently funded for design or construction.

Every year in Australia, over 1.8 million mattresses end up in landfill, each taking up a whopping 1 cubic metre of space.

Not only do mattresses take up valuable landfill space, they also take up to 120 years to break down – that’s huge!

So, what can you do to help and to avoid the mattress disposal fee at our waste transfer stations?

1. Sell it or donate it! If you have a clean mattress, free from bedbugs or nasties, why not see if someone else in our community is in need of a mattress? Some of our local charity shops also accept clean mattress donations, but make sure to check with them first before dropping them off.

2. Strip the mattress and pull it apart yourself! With care, take out any metal springs and drop them off in the scrap metal bins at your nearest waste facility. Cut the foam down as much as possible and put this in with your household waste. (Commercial operators please contact our waste team to discuss your options).

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

With a little extra care and effort from us all, we can greatly reduce the amount of waste ending up in landfill and avoid unnecessary pollution in our Whitsunday Region.

Home to 80 per cent of on-water tourism in the Whitsundays and most awarded marina in Australia, Coral Sea Marina Resort is a beacon of light and the glimmering jewel of first impressions as visitors drive over the hill to Airlie Beach.

Over the past 10 years it has steadily been transformed from a run-down and dated port to now being known as the ‘Monaco of the South Pacific’ for visiting superyachts, having been crowned with a slew of superyacht awards in recent years.

This transformation has been the vision of one man who inspires a dedicated workforce to aim for the best and achieve only the highest of standards.

Avid boating enthusiast Paul Darrouzet had been visiting Airlie Beach for 26 years prior to purchasing the marina.

During that time, he noticed the deterioration of the physical infrastructure and service

standard within Abell Point Marina.

When the marina went into receivership, he saw an opportunity to create not only a worldclass marina but also an inspiring destination that global visitors would flock towards.

Within the first eighteen months of ownership, Paul invested in a complete visual overhaul – pouring 21,000 square meters of concrete, creating 305 car parks, and building a new arrival and departure plaza.

Buildings were demolished, new ones erected, the marina was dredged to allow access for larger vessels and the entire precinct underwent significant beautification.

Paul managed to create a bustling marina village feel and a hive of boating activity – the new standard of facility was quickly reflected in the quality of visitor, attracting a more discerning guest, while reinvigorating a sense of pride in current tenants.

The overall feel and vibe of the marina was transformed, but Paul did not wish to stop there.

Over the years he tackled the arduous task of addressing the muddy parkland which lay adjacent to the marina.

It had become an eyesore to passing motorists, reducing the stunning first impression of the marina that he was trying to create.

A labour of love, it took Paul and his team several years to revive the area which has now become a manicured grassland and garden space which has hosted several large-scale events.

Determined to create a smooth flow within the precinct and the ultimate destination offering for his guests, Paul made the astute business decision to purchase the adjacent Coral Sea Resort.

He invested substantially in completely

renovating the dated accommodation facility, creating a flagship and a new benchmark in the local accommodation offering which continues to this day.

At the same time, he renamed the entire precinct to Coral Sea Marina Resort, a complete lifestyle destination where guests can stay, play, and explore.

With arguably the best views on the Australian coast, the lovingly developed marina precinct now has two marina villages, a dedicated superyacht arm, a 26-metre floating customer lounge, a relaxing on-shore lounge area, a luxury resort, and a diverse range of tourism and hospitality experiences.

This multi-million-dollar investment has not only transformed the marina, it has also raised the bar for tourism across the Whitsunday region.

“A rising tide lifts all boats” John F Kennedy

Attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors each year to its vibrant precinct, Coral Sea Marina is a magnet for quality tourism and home to dozens of family-owned businesses that operate successfully and independently under its safe-haven.

The two marina villages offer a range of tourism and hospitality experiences and services, with many tenants and operators arguably the best in the business, boasting both Queensland

and Australian Tourism Award winners amongst them.

Whether it be a relaxing poolside getaway, overnight sailing adventures, bareboat charters, scenic flights from the private helipads, jetboats or jetskis - Coral Sea Marina Resort acts as the gateway to the stunning Whitsunday Islands and Great Barrier Reef.

A camaraderie, loyalty and family feeling exist

between everyone in the marina, each business complimenting the other and offering a service that directly supports the cohesion and overall success of the marina network.

Under the supportive guidance of the marina, this united community of family-owned businesses have proved to resiliently overcome challenges over the years, both in the immediate aftermath of the 2017 Cyclone Debbie and in the ongoing Covid-19 recovery.

In 2023 they are embarking on a new era of success, one where international tourism is kicking back into gear, the cruise ships are once again a common sight on the horizon and domestic tourism is fully engaged with visiting the region.

It is an exciting time to be operating at Coral Sea Marina.

It was 1904 when the first settler of the region, Thomas Abell, arrived in Airlie Beach, and by 1938 a small jetty had been established near the current site of the VMR as a transit point for vessels.

By 1988 the Abel Point Marina consortium commenced marina development and in 1990 Abel Point Marina was sold to the Robinson family who operated until 2006. Meridien Marinas then purchased the site

Before and after 21,000 square metres of concrete were poured

and by 2011 it went into receivership.

When Paul Darrouzet purchased the marina in 2013, he immediately restored the correct spelling of the name (Abell) to recognise the original settlers.

Enhancing guest experience - this included the addition of a private helipad on the marina rock wall, upgrades to the fuel wharf enabling 24-hour fuel access, the launch of a conference and wedding venue and the introduction of a new café.

Continuous improvement - Hemingway’s restaurant was awarded a Chef Hat, the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race returned and accolades continued with another Gold at the Whitsunday Tourism Awards. The 2.5-hectare community garden was starting to take shape.

A new era for the business - Through the acquisition of neighbouring Coral Sea Resort, the marina and resort merged and rebranded as Coral Sea Marina Resort, a vibrant destination in the heart of the Coral Sea.

The

of

dredge the Gardens parkland, build an upper balcony extension on Sorrento’s, and launched a 26-metre floating customer lounge.

attended the

The year the world changed - When the country locked down, the Coral Sea Resort closed its doors whilst the marina remained operational as an essential service. By June 2020, both businesses were back fully operational.

The year of change - the original north marina office building was demolished to expose the once-hidden waterfront aspect. Construction works on the car park commenced and 21,000 square metres of concrete were poured.

year

progress - the new arrival and departure plaza was constructed; offices and amenities were refurbished and walkways were beautified. A new deck was installed at Sorrento’s and Paddons Café was revitalised.

An award-winning year - the marina received the first global 5 Gold Anchor Marina Accreditation in the world and Gold for Major Tourism Attraction at the Whitsunday Tourism Awards. It also hosted the rest leg of the 2015/16 Clipper Round the World Yacht Race.

A roller coaster ride – Cyclone Debbie left a path of destruction but somehow the marina prevailed and during the year they began to

The brand-new expansive sun deck at Sorrento Restaurant and Bar

Paul Darrouzet (centre) and his team holding the 5 Gold Anchor Marina Accreditation

An aerial view of ‘Ocean Club’, the 26-metre floating customer lounge

Coral Sea Marina enters the Whitsunday Tourism Awards Hall of Fame

The newly refurbished Coral Sea Resort

Thousands

Whitsundays Clipper Race Carnival before Covid shut the world down

The private helipad located on the marina rock wall

Pivoting to the domestic market - a private guest and crew lounge was added, the Coral Sea Academy was developed to provide an EduTourism experience for the region and the marina was announced as Superyacht Industry Service Provider of 2021.

A year to be remembered – the marina achieved its highest berthing occupancy on record and won Best Superyacht Marina (in the World) in the international ACREW Superyacht Business Awards. A floating seagrass nursery site was installed in the south marina as part of the Whitsundays Seagrass Restoration Project.

A decade of excellence – was celebrated with a major refurbishment of Coral Sea Resort which was completed in time for of Paul Darrouzet’s ten-year anniversary as owner of the award-winning, world renowned, Coral Sea Marina resort this month.

Thank you to all our marina tenants, operators, guests, industry partners, suppliers and contractors for

Coral Sea Marina Resort as it looks today

A superyacht haven at Coral Sea Marina

Coral Sea Marina Resort

Paul Darrouzet celebrates 10 years at Coral Sea Marina Resort

“Joy is not found in finishing an activity, but in doing it” Greg Anderson

With big dreams and solid ambitions, over the past 10 years, Paul Darrouzet and his team have transformed a small regional marina into a global flagship and key player in the luxury yachting world.

In a dedicated effort, Coral Sea Marina has managed to attract some of the largest yachts in the South Pacific, including 75-metre Lady E and 73-metre, Dragonfly. Spending upwards of $25,000 a day on provisions and services, the superyachts make a big impact on the local economy.

During their stay, they also use the marina as their home port from which to explore the Whitsundays and every experience travels far and wide among the yachting community as word travels across the world to reinforce the reputation of the marina and broader region. Known for providing a seamless professional service, superyacht captains and crew from

around the world now hold the marina in high regard.

“The aim throughout the development process has been to create the Monaco of the South Pacific for superyachts,” said Paul Darrouzet.

The marina’s dedication to the industry was formally recognised last year when it officially became the Best Superyacht Marina in the international ACREW Superyacht Business Awards, after two years consecutively of being Runner-Up.

The role the organisation plays in the Australian superyacht industry has also been recognised in recent years with the marina being awarded Superyacht Industry Service Provider of the Year in both 2017 and 2021. In addition, Paul Darrouzet, was recognised in 2017 as Australian Superyacht Industry Champion for his commitment to the growth of the industry in Australia.

AN AWARD WINNING MARINA PRECINCT

5 Gold Anchor Platinum Global Marina Accreditation

ACREW Superyacht Business Awards - Best Superyacht Marina 2022

Australian Marina of the Year 2017/18, 2019/20 and Hall of Fame 2021

Superyacht Industry Service Provider of the Year 2017, 2021

ACREW Superyacht Business Awards - Best Superyacht Marina (Runner-Up) 2021

ACREW Superyacht Business Awards - Best Australasian Marina (Runner-Up) 2020

Superyacht Industry Champion 2017 - Paul Darrouzet 2021 Australasian HM Awards for Hotel and Accommodation Excellence - Upscale Hotel Category (Highly Commended)

MIA Best Community Engagement by a Marina 2019/20

MIA Innovation by a Marina 2017/18

Major Tourism Attraction (Gold) - Queensland Tourism Awards 2017

Major Tourism Attraction (Finalist) - Australian Tourism Awards 2017

Major Tourism Attraction (Gold) - Whitsunday Tourism Awards 2016, 2017, 2018, Hall of Fame 2019

Best of Queensland Experiences 2018, 2019, 2021

TripAdvisor Travellers Choice 2020

ecoBiz Star Rated Partner 2021 Clean Marina Level III / Fish Friendly Marina

With a desire to provide guests and visitors with a deeper, more meaningful experience of boating and the environment, Coral Sea Marina has launched a dedicated Eco Tourism pillar to their tourism offering.

The Coral Sea Academy aims to transform the ways people think and behave about the environment and encompasses the four key pillars of sustainability, better boating, wellness and culture.

By introducing a range of special events, workshops and experiences, the Coral Sea Academy takes people on a journey that inspires them to be part of something bigger, to be changed and to make change happen.

Coral Sea Marina does not just preach sustainable behaviour; they also live and breathe environmentally conscious practices.

They are an accredited Clean Marina Level III/ Fish Friendly marina and in 2018, it became the first marina resort in Australia to have all its food and beverage outlets become plastic straw free as part of The Last Straw Campaign.

The marina has also pledged to become free of single-use plastics by 2025.

By partnering with CQ University and Reef Catchments the marina has developed a test site for seagrass nurseries.

They are also working on the Healthy Heart Reef Project, with the Whitsunday Climate Change Innovation Hub, to decarbonise the Whitsundays tourism sector and achieve a sustainable destination accreditation for the Whitsunday region.

In addition, they are an ecoBiz Star Partner for their commitment to waste management.

At the forefront of community events and charity drives, Coral Sea Marina is both generous and instrumental in assisting a variety of local causes that actively help in meaningful ways.

They are major sponsors of Whitsunday Voluntary Marine Rescue, funding vessels that are called out on multiple missions per week and have saved countless lives over the years.

Coral Sea Marina Resort is also a sponsor of multiple local sports clubs and Sailability Whitsunday, which helps people living with a disability get out on the water and enjoy recreational boating.

The marina also enjoys coordinating and contributing towards fundraising projects, they organise the yearly Big Aussie BBQ and are supporters of the Shag Islet Cruising Yacht Club’s (SICYC) annual rendezvous, both of which raise much-needed funds for the Pros-

tate Cancer Foundation of Australia. Through the Coral Sea Academy, they also partner with boating professionals, environmental organisations and not-for-profit groups to encourage better boating practices and the preservation of the marine environment.

In addition, they are passionate about bringing community events to the region.

From the Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival to the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race and the Great Barrier Reef Festival, many events are supported by the generosity of the marina. Committed to creating a community-focused recreation hub in which guests can feel part of the Whitsunday community and enjoy the many groups, Coral Sea Marina Resort is dedicated to ensuring there are regular activities and events on offer throughout the region.

The Coral Sea Academy teaches about boat safety

The Big Aussie BBQ is an annual community event raising money for charity

“Take only memories, leave only footprints” Chief Seattle

For 12 years, Amy Nichols has been the parallel smile for Coral Sea Marina guests - when they beam, she beams; the happiness of the customers is her own.

In her role as Guest Services Manager, Amy is the gentle hand of the Marina, the welcoming gesture for its guests, guiding them back on boats or by foot “like old friends.” In the more than a decade she’s been with Coral Sea Marina, she’s seen its community grow and been a key part in cultivating its culture of exceptional service. Like almost all those who call the Whitsundays home, Amy found herself here by chance, moving from Canada in her backpacking days of yore – the early 2000s. She arrived with experience in the service and hospitality industry, and – as is the same old story - soon fell in love with the region, but not just the place, the people: Amy met her husband in the Whitsundays’ land of sunbleached sand.

“We started our amazing journey together nearly 18 years ago,” Amy said.

“Now, we’ve built our own home just outside of town and have two young beautiful children. I have a whole family unit here: my brother and sister-in-law moved here from Canada so we could be closer to each other. This is my home.”

In her almost two decades of time in Airlie Beach, she has seen it change – and nowhere has that change been more dramatic than at Coral Sea Marina.

“The services and facilities we offer have changed and

Happy Birthday Coral Sea Marina!

since Paul [Darrouzet] arrived it has changed completely,” Amy said.

“He made it an entirely different experience to what staying at any normal marina would be, and as the Guest Services Manager, it has been rewarding to have assisted him in achieving this. Because of that, the Marina is a lot busier than it was when I started and the demand we have seen for berthing – even since Covid – is incredible. It is keeping the guest services team on their toes!”

The personal highlights of Amy’s career are almost daily – they’re the interactions with guests: “When loyal guest returns each year for their annual cruising holiday and they come into the marina office and greet the team like old friends, that’s special,” she said.

“Seeing the smile on a guest’s face or even hearing a smile over the phone by providing a level of service that exceeds expectations is not only rewarding but heart-warming.”

Coral Sea Marina, busy and bustling, is in great part the way it is because of Amy’s work. Of her tireless efforts, of her ability to welcome guests, of her love for her job.

“The marina feels – to me -like its own community,” Amy said.

“All its commercial operators and tenants, the cafes, the restaurants, day tourists, locals, and sailors – there’s something here for everyone. I think the Marina plays a big role in this community, and I’m proud to be a part of it.”

If there is a throughline for each of Coral Sea Marina’s longest-serving staff, it is their devotion to the ocean; their affinity for the big blue.

Jacqui Henderson is no different: her career in the Marine Industry began in 1991 in her home country of New Zealand, where she operated a power boat and trailer yacht business. And ever since, it’s been one long love affair with the sea.

Traveling to Australia from New Zealand in the early 2000s, Jacqui and her husband were on a mission to manoeuvre the country, planning to circumnavigate it with their own trailer yacht, having sold their business back in their homeland. Having heard that Airlie Beach was a sailing destination – that familiar story - they made it their first stop, intending to be here for no more than six months. That was 22 years ago: “We never left”.

“When we decided to stay in Airlie, I first worked on the overnight Skippered Charter Yachts for a couple of years,” Jacqui said.

“Then land-based working for a Bare Boat Charter Company - which was seasonal – and in the off season I joined my husband who was looking after a private 48’ Bavaria yacht and sailed the vessel to Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne where we did corporate day trips for the owners then returned to Airlie.”

After years in the marine industry, Jacqui felt she

needed a change, and sought a position working for a local Landscape Architectural firm. “Only, I came to the realisation that I needed to be close to the Ocean,” Jacqui said. “I then applied for a position at what was Abell Point Marina [now Coral Sea Marina] and have been here ever since.”

It was Jacqui’s passion for excellent customer service – as well as her expert sailing experience – that lent her the perfect credentials for her perfect position at the Marina; one she’s held for 12 years. And it’s changed markedly since her arrival: the Marina was soon to be invested in heavily after she began. It became one of Airlie Beach’s most iconic sailing ports and recognised as a world-class destination –something the little town she arrived in 22 years ago could never have imagined.

“When Paul [Darrouzet] purchased the Marina in 2013, he had a vision,” Jacqui said.

“And he has been able to achieve it. I am very proud to be part of this team, and the recognition of continually taking out world standard awards, that’s just the icing on the cake.”

When she’s not working weekends at the Marina in her role, her weekdays are spent in the arts of peaceful solitude, connection with nature and self: yoga, art, paddle boarding, kayaking. In fact, once a month, Jacqui teaches an Art Class at the Ocean Club at Coral Sea Marina, bringing all her passions together.

Picture it: plate glass water around mountainous islands, like impressionistic green dollops of paint on plates of golden sand, surrounded by blue swirls. When anyone ventures on the seas, the tranquillity of it calls imagination to stretch its legs, and no one knows that better than Gemma Mee.

Born in Brisbane and growing up in the Redlands, Gemma would soon fall in love with the sailing lifestyle after her family moved to the Whitsunday region in 1981. She had little choice: her family lived and worked in a yacht on the water, her first real job was with Yachting World – a bareboating company at Shute Harbour – and every few years she would sail south to Mooloolaba and work for Tourism Queensland at Alexandra Headland. Love for the ocean was the perfect response.

If any of Coral Sea Marina’s staff has an expertise in the ocean, it’s Gemma. From ’92 to ’96, she circumnavigated the globe on her family’s 35-foot yacht, and on her return, she found her appreciation

for her “own back yard.”

“After all that - believe it or notone of my passions now is sailing around the Whitsundays when we can,” Gemma said.

Working at Coral Sea Marina was a job brought to her on the tides; it was meant for her. So, when Coral Sea reached out 12 years ago, Gemma dived in, head first.

“What I love about it most is how busy and diverse every day is -there are no ‘groundhog’ days at Coral Sea Marina,” Gemma said. “I have experienced huge changes here over the past decade. I believe our most significant milestone at the Marina was when Paul purchased it in 2013. He had the vision and was prepared to finance the upgrading of the marina, and although it has been a busy time, it has also been very satisfying and rewarding to see the changes.”

Although her role as Finance Administrator doesn’t see her out on the water too much professionally, Gemma still heads for the seas with her husband on wooden vessels.

Paradise – what’s not to love?

Trent Ridout-Allen knows that best.

For 10 years, he’s been in dreamland, taking on the role of Coral Sea Marina’s Operations and Asset Manager, maintaining and looking after one of the world’s best marinas – living in “the place where anyone would choose to take their holiday” too. How could you say no?

Growing up in Canberra, Trent was land-locked, but was destined for marina work. As soon as he could, he was Gold Coast-bound. There, he worked at Sanctuary Cove Marina and would soon have his first taste of Airlie Beach in 2008 working at Abel Point Marina– and it’s safe to say it stuck in his mind.

After that year, he headed back south to Horizon Shores Marina, a few hundred kilometres below Brisbane. The appeal of Airlie Beach, however, was too much to bear and he headed back to the Whitsundays for a role at Abel Point Marina, one month prior to Paul Darrouzet’s takeover.

“I knew that I need to come back here and when there was an opportunity, I

took it,” Trent said.

“Since then, Coral Sea Marina has become a hub for the region and a place that everyone here should be proud to show their closest friends and family. Taking pride in where I work and, every day, learning more about the marina is what I enjoy -- there are never two days alike.”

Over his decade at Coral Sea Marina, Trent certainly has a lot to be proud of, overseeing beautification and changes galore, with one of his proudest achievements the opening of ‘The Gardens’, turning what was once a dredge-settling pond into an iconic spot for the region.

“It’s now the wow moment as everyone drives over the hill,” Trent said.

“When people can first see the ocean framed by a beautiful greenspace and the superyachts. That is one of my crowning achievements.”

When he’s not contributing to the Marina’s ever-improving assets and landscapes, maintaining and growing them, Trent enjoys Airlie Beach in the best possible way. Like he says: “Boating and fishing are the reason for living in this region.”

A huge congratulations to Paul and the Coral Sea Marina team on your 10 year anniversary! Thank you for your dedication and commitment to the marina, marine industry & the Whitsunday region.

New Whitsunday Moorings To Protect Reef

The Queensland State Government will install new environmentally friendly public moorings across the Whitsundays to protect The Great Barrier Reef.

Thirty public moorings will be installed by Townsville-based company Pacific Marine Group to reduce harmful anchoring in the Great Barrier Reef and improve access to the World Heritage Listed site.

Minister for the Environment and the Great Barrier Reef Meaghan Scanlon said the Reef’s status as Queensland’s most iconic natural asset requires investment designed to protect it, “while also supporting a sustainable reef-based tourism industry.”

“There are now 309 public moorings and 289 reef protection markers throughout the Great Barrier Reef that can be used by recreational boaties and reef-based tourism operators,” Ms Scanlon said.

“Investing in eco-friendly moorings is not just good for the environment, but also good for the local economy as it attracts eco-conscious tourists who are willing to pay for sustainable tourism experiences.”

Ms Scanlon said the moorings help reduce the impact of boat anchors on coral reefs, seagrass beds and other sensitive marine habitats, which in turn supports the longterm health and resilience of these important ecosystems.

More of the environmentally friendly vessel moorings will be located at key points on the Reef to provide safe and sustainable access to some of the Whitsundays’ most popular snorkelling and anchorage sites.

Pacific Marine Group has been awarded the contract to carry out the installation works which are expected to take place in May this year.

Steven Jones, Business Development Manager at Pacific Marine Group, said the company had installed over 400 of its Environmentally Friendly Moorings all along the Great Barrier Reef, with many now up to 30 years old and performing as well as the day they were installed.

“This project will use all North Queensland local supplied labour and materials, with the planning, procurement and fabrication phase employing around 15 people, and the site installation phase also employing around 15 people between the marine crew, diving crew and Management crew,” Mr Jones said.

“Birders” Enjoy a Nature Walk

The first in a series of guided nature walks took place last week on the Glen Isla Wetlands and participants were excited to see a range of wildlife living peacefully within the serenity of our natural environment.

Members of the Whitsunday Conservation Council (WCC) have a series of exciting events to look forward to in the coming year.

“There will be something for everyone,” said walks coordinator Suzette Pelt.

“We’ll have a night spotting walk for children during winter school holidays and a series of bird watching and photography walks in different seasons, with opportunities for spotting migratory birds and the changes in vegetation that attract different wildlife.”

“Our first walk, on private property on the Glen Isla wetlands, gave birders some fantastic viewing and photographic opportunities, along

with the enjoyment of getting out into nature at the end of the wet season.”

The walk was guided by Dale Mengal of the Wildlife and Plants of the Whitsunday and Mackay region, along with reptile expert Kylee Gray.

The group of 20 nature lovers, enjoyed a fantastic few hours walking through often boggy ground, to get to the best spots.

If you are interested in finding out more information about future events, sign up for the Whitsunday Conservation Council via their website.

Membership is just $1 and the group is run by volunteers who have a wealth of information.

Members will also receive regular newsletters with what’s happening in the environmental space.

For more information call Suzette Pelt WCC nature walks coordinator on 0419768195

“Our unique Environmentally Friendly Mooring system continues to provide positive environmental outcomes by providing an alternative to vessels dropping anchors in sensitive marine environments.”

More information about public moorings in the Whitsundays and across the Great Barrier Reef, including maps, GPS positions and vessel size classes is available at https://bit.ly/3JQJpdX

The public mooring project is part of the Government’s $3.9 million Reef Trails project to reduce anchor damage on coral reefs and improve public access to the Great Barrier Reef.

The moorings will be managed and maintained through the Reef Joint Field Management Program, which is funded by the Queensland and Australian governments to deliver crucial on-ground actions to protect the Great Barrier Reef.

The Queensland Government plans to install thirty environmentally friendly public moorings in the Whitsundays in May

A group of ‘birders’ enjoy a walk in nature at the Glen Isla Wetlands

The majestic Magpie Goose

The tiny Red Backed Fairy Wren

The regal Brahminy Kite

Photo credit: Debbie Smith

School Holiday Activities

PROSERPINE

Cruisin’ Whitsunday Show and Shine

Speechie Talks Free Support Program

Parents will soon have the opportunity to engage with a Speech Pathologist at a series of free educational sessions due to be held in a relaxed and social setting at our local libraries.

Avid motorists are gearing up for the seventh annual Cruisin’ Whitsunday Show and Shine which is due to be held at the Coral Sea Marina Community Gardens at the end of May.

This year will be a whole weekend spectacular with events scheduled to entertain and delight visitors from across the state. These include a themed dinner on Saturday night and a recovery breakfast on the Sunday.

Set to the backdrop of the Coral Sea and amongst the flotilla of vessels in the marina, the event is visually impressive and it is expected that over 200 vehicles will exhibit.

The event is hosted by the Whitsunday Cruisin Car Club, a non-profit organisation which was started in 2012 by a small group of Whitsunday locals.

Since then, they have become one of the largest car clubs in the area, consisting of over 60 individual members and their families that have a passion for everything automotive.

The group take part in many events throughout each year, but this is their larg-

est community gathering.

The main event will take place on Saturday, May 27 and the whole family is invited to come along and marvel at the array of colourful vehicles.

For the first time this year, organisers are introducing a special kid’s show and shine event.

Children are invited to show their ‘Pride and Joy’ – pedal car, go-kart, scooter, electric motor, bike trike or homemade creation.

“The Kids Show and Shine has been introduced to get the local kids involved and outdoors,” said organiser Keri Southee.

“All money raised this year from the entry goes to the QCWA Proserpine Branch toward the maintenance and upkeep of The Airlie Beach Cottage.”

WHAT: Cruisin’ Whitsunday Show and Shine

WHERE: The Gardens, Coral Sea Marina

WHEN: Saturday, May 27

TICKETS: $5 from whitsundaytickets. com.au

‘Speechie Talks’ is open to parents and carers of children aged zero to five years and will be led by Whitsunday Community Health’s speech pathologist Kelly Rodgers who will host weekly sessions for eight weeks.

Families will benefit from information on how to support early childhood communication development and topics will include early language, speech sounds, social communication and early literacy.

“We conducted a survey in 2022 seeking feedback on speech pathology programs for children aged zero to five years in the Whitsunday region,” Kelly said.

“More than 80 per cent of respondents indicated that they would like to see the Community Health service offer group education sessions on specific topics to assist parents with their child’s communication.”

Each session will start with a 20-minute presentation on the weekly topic followed by a Q&A session about anything speech pathology related.

Kelly said she is excited and looking forward to presenting Speechie Talks to Whitsunday region families.

“The library setting allows families to drop in with their children and connect with a speech pathologist to ask questions with-

out having to go through a formal referral process,” she explained.

“We can also guide parents and carers on support pathways if parents are concerned about their child’s development.

“As speech pathologists, we want to share our knowledge with families on how to build and support their child’s communication to ensure they receive the best possible start.”

WHAT: Speechie Talks program

WHERE: Cannonvale and Proserpine Libraries

WHEN: Weekly from Monday, April 17 (alternating between the two libraries)

TIME: 9.30am to 10.30am

“Breadalbane”, “Cricklewood”, “Abydos”, and “Therallie” were the names of properties in Glen Isla owned by the district’s early settlers. The Waite brothers, George Augustus (Gus) and Charles Beveridge, owned Breadalbane, a name still in use today.

George and Charles were graziers who were amongst the first men to take up land in the area, their initial purchase being in 1873. The Waite brothers’ holding comprised all the land between the river and Main Street, back towards the showgrounds. It was densely covered in scrub and included the area where the water tower now stands. The Waites were big land holders, also taking up Crystalbrook and Cannon Valley runs.

The brothers played a pivotal role in establishing the sugar industry in Proserpine. When the Proserpine Central Sugar Mill finally got underway in 1897, after a decade of disappointment following the collapse of the Crystal Brook Sugar Company, the cost far exceeded the amount of security the farmers could provide. It was largely due to the generosity of Gus Waite that the problem was solved in an

exceptional way. He made 3000 acres of his own estate available to be surveyed and sold for farm blocks thus securing sufficient debentures to meet the required government valuation and he chaired the meetings which requested government assistance. What an achievement on that memorable occasion on September 16, 1897 when Lena Waite, wife of G.A. Waite, cracked the proverbial bottle of champagne.

While both Gus and Charles Waite were civic minded, it was Gus who made the most notable contributions to the district. He took part in anything to improve the town. Before there was a hospital or a dentist, his services were often called upon, particularly to pull teeth, as he had had some medical and dental training in his youth. He was President of the Chamber of Commerce, a member of the Show Association, Hospital Board, Ambulance Committee and the Proserpine-Bowen Tramway Board.

Gus Waite was Chairman of the Wanagaratta Divisional Board 1888-1891; 18931894 and 1898-1899. In 1910, he was on the first Proserpine Shire Council when

it separated from Bowen and from 19131914, he was Shire Chairman. During his first year, he informed councillors that many angry men had threatened his life if a road was not put through to the showgrounds. Councillors Waite and Biggs moved that a road be formed as speedily as possible and the motion was carried unanimously. In later years, this road was named Anzac Road in remembrance of our fallen soldiers from World War One. In early 1914, Gus Waite was again on the Council in Number 1 Division.

It was not only farmers who benefitted from Gus Waite’s magnanimous gestures. In 1912, the Show committee leased property owned by Gus – the value of the land was £140 with rates £4/1/8d yearly. Dr Anderson, our first resident doctor, bought land from him on which to build the homes, Parkfields and The Grange.

George Augustus Waite was a man among men. By the time of his passing on September 28, 1914, the town had a hospital, a good school and many businesses, in no small measure due to his efforts. It is fitting that his tombstone sits at the entrance to our cemetery and is

The descendants of the two

now live far away from Proserpine but we are reminded of their influence and contribution to the district by Waite Street which is named in their

Speech pathologist Kelly Rodgers

Over 200 vehicles are expected to exhibit at this years’ Cruisin’ Whitsunday Show and Shine

inscribed with the words “The Father of Proserpine”.

Waite brothers

honour.

Story courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum and photo courtesy Whitsunday Regional Council.

George Waite

GIG GUIDE

Friday 31st March

• The Pub: Acoustic Sessions, Dan England (7-10pm)

• Paradiso: Loui Battour (7-10pm)

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

• KC’s: Aaron Saxon (8pm-late)

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

Saturday 1st April

• The Pub: Yacht Rock Revival (2-5.30pm)

• The Pub: Acoustic Sessions, Dan England (7-10pm)

• Paradiso: Tasman (7-10pm)

• KC’s: Shaun Diver (8pm-late)

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

Sunday 2nd April

• Paradiso: Aaron Saxon (1-4pm)

• The Pub: Yacht Rock Revival (2-5.30pm)

• The Pub: Acoustic Sessions, Dan England (7-10pm)

• KC’s: Shaun Diver (8pm-late)

Monday 3rd April

• KC’s: Tash (8pm-late)

Tuesday 4th April

• KC’s: Peta Richards (8pm-late)

Wednesday 5th April

• KC’s: Sam McCann (8pm-late)

Thursday 6th April

• Paradiso: Aaron Saxon (6.30-9.30pm)

• The Pub: Acoustic Sessions, Chris Booroff (6.30-10pm)

• KC’s: Sam McCann (8pm-late)

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

am Mendes’s ‘Empire of Light’ is beguiling, undoubtedly, eventually finding a flow after its early portions, which can often feel overwrought or anxious.

Sam Mendes’s Empire of Light is a film of exquisite beauty courtesy of seasoned cinematographer Roger Deakins

times, his cinematography is painterly: its landscapes remind of the piercing, evenly lit outdoor works of Edward Hopper; its interiors eerily akin to the painter’s ‘New York Movie’. Empire of Light is more of an art-deco-infused pastiche, with Deakins’ propensity for the gloriously long, drawnout shadows.

tristesse? That remains ambiguous. For most viewers, though, they may be dubious: the ending echoes Anton Chekov’s The Lady with the Dog, only far more saccharine. There is a gesture towards hopefulness in its closing narration – a reading of Philip Larkin’s poem The Trees. We wonder, will love begin “afresh, afresh, afresh?”

Luckily, as is the case with Coleman’s Hilary, the film’s feeling of ennui subsides as hers does, and Empire of Light finds its feet through performances from Toby Jones, Michael Ward, and Coleman herself, as well as the faultless Deakins. At

WHAT'S ON

March

xxx

31 Richard Evans’ Author Talks at Cannonvale Library (bookings required)

Set against the backdrop of a post-Margaret Thatcher ‘80s Britain, the rheumy-eyed Hilary Small (Coleman) returns to, what is for her, drab work at a local cinema within her coastal township after her stay in a mental health institution.Hilary is drawn out from her depression by the young, handsome, and black Stephen (Ward), a new hire at the cinema who rejuvenates her. I mention his race as it becomes the film’s central political treatise: The Thatcher-fuelled small town despises him, causing more misery for Hilary.

At its end, we are left with a question. Will their romantic tryst pull Hilary from here

Often moving, Empire of Light makes a grandiose sweep at love and loneliness with the help of a cinematographer at his zenith.

Empire of Light (MA15+) opens at the Bowen Summergarden Cinema on Tuesday, April 4. Review by Declan Durrant.

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

5pm at McIntosh Dr

1-3 The Goonies showing at the PEC Cinema

1-4 ET (G) showing at the PEC Cinema

1-5 Penguin Bloom showing at the PEC Cinema

4-5 Paper Planes (G) showing at the PEC Cinema

4 Sailability Whitsundays from 9am at Whitsunday Sailing Club

4 Fitter For Life Over 50’s at Bowen PCYC

5 Kinder Gym at Bowen PCYC

31-7 Back To The Future Series showing at the PEC Cinema

April

1 Skateboarding Workshop from 2pm, Queens Beach Skate Park

1 Anglican Cent Sale 1.30pm at Proserpine Leisure Centre, Stanbury St

1 Cannonvale Marine Celebrates, from

2 Skateboarding Workshop from 9.30am, Queens Beach Skate Park

2 Get Active Airlie Beach 3pm – 6pm, Foreshore

2 Airlie Beach Movie Night: Barnyard 6pm

3-4 The Land Before Time (G) showing at the PEC Cinema

3 Kinder Gym at Bowen PCYC

BOWEN SUMMERGARDEN CINEMAS

MOVIES: ALL SCREENINGS ARE IN 2D UNLESS SPECIFIED.

EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC OF 7.1 SURROUND SOUND ON SELECTED MOVIES.

SPECIAL LOW PRICE $10 ALL AGES

cheeky fairy named Violetta gets lost into the human world. To go back to the fairy world, she meets and teams up with a 12-year-old girl named Maxie and discovers her true destiny.

Justin Daniels Anene, Alex Avenell(voice), Stephan Benson(voice)

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

A charming thief and a band of unlikely adventurers embark on an epic quest to retrieve a lost relic, but things go dangerously awry when they run afoul of the wrong people.

Stars: Chris Pine, Michelle Rodriguez, Regé-Jean Page

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

The film continues the story of teenage Billy Batson who, upon reciting the magic word “SHAZAM!” is transformed into his adult Super Hero alter ego, Shazam.

Stars: Zachary Levi, Grace Caroline Currey, Helen Mirren

“THE WHALE” (MA) 117mins Drama

A reclusive, morbidly obese English teacher attempts to reconnect with his estranged teenage daughter.

Stars: Brendan Fraser, Sadie Sink, Ty Simpkins

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

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

“65” (M) 93mins Action/Adventure

An astronaut crash lands on a mysterious planet only to discover he’s not alone.

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

6-12 Shazam Future of the Gods showing at the PEC Cinema

6 Fitter For Life Over 50’s at Bowen PCYC

7 Good Friday

Thurs 12.15pm 4.45pm 7.25pm

6th Apr10.00am

-

2.45pm 6.45pm Fri 31st Mar 6.45pm6.45pm-40 Murroona St, Queens Beach, Bowen. Ph: (07) 47851241 Mob: 0422 321 770 See our movie times, reviews & how to find us at www.bowencinemas.com and on Facebook Please Note: WE ARE NOT OPEN Mon 3rd, Tues 4th or Friday 7th April 2023

S

Directing and penning the film, Mendes has a deal to contend with. Though, with his credentials, audiences can back him. He has an immense and startling array of talent at his disposal – the invariably praised cinematographer Roger Deakins; the presently-deified (and justifiably so) Olivia Coleman. Yet, despite everything, the film begins in a woozy malaise, not knowing what it wishes to be. Ode to Cinema? Love story? Political and social commentary? An admixture of all?

Get ‘Geed Up’ For Easter

‘The Boys’ are back in town for an enormous Easter Weekend of three back-toback-to-back shows at The Airlie Beach Hotel in what they promise is “a performance like no other.”

The Pub is becoming one of Brisbane band Geed UP’s regular stomping grounds –and they’re becoming one of the region’s all-time favourite shows.

They’re ticking off the list of events: Already, Geed UP have rocked it out on New Year’s Eve, rode the stage on Melbourne Cup Day, and they’re tackling Easter this year.

Arriving in Airlie Beach for a massive Weekend, Geed Up will rock out to rapturous applause – as they have time and again with local’s favourite local hosting them for three world-class performances. Comprised of Khan, Stevie, and Mat - who first met when they formed a casual singing group on the Gold Coast almost 20 years ago – Geed Up lines up these three New Zealanders who cater to every crowd with show-stopping dance moves guaranteed to bring down the house.

For the fifth time at the Hotel, The Boys are getting set to show off their vocal versatility when playing all afternoon long in three separate inspiring (and Geed up) performances for the crowds.

“We’re no regular singing trio,” Khan said. “What’s different about us is we’re high-oc-

tane, performative. We incorporate percussion, saxophone, keys and guitar, explosive breakdancing choreography and comedy - I like to think we’re special; we do it better than anyone.”

The high-energy choreography is weaved into the performance’s base musicality –making it a truly show-stopping treat of electrifying movement and foot-tapping tunes that can’t help but inspire audiences to groove along.

With every Geed UP show a new and unique one, expect no different here: This Easter Weekend will mix some of the old and the new; from laid-back music to fill the dance floor, this trio will deliver it all.

The International-level performers, known for their polished three-piece harmonies, blending their unique vocal styles into a fusion of soul, funk, edge, and class, will have the audience speechless all afternoon. Influenced by all genres of music and their New Zealand culture, there is nothing that the boys of Geed Up can’t cater for. Expect plenty of surprises with a brandnew trick or two up their sleeve for this Easter. Don’t miss these three very special and free shows.

WHAT: Geed Up! Easter Weekend

WHEN: Good Friday, April 7, Easter Saturday, April 8, and Easter Sunday, April 9, from 2.00pm to 5.30pm each day.

WHERE: The Airlie Beach Hotel

Sidewalks And Skate Parks, Aerials And Varials

No skater starts knowing how to ollie, kickflip, or even just move forward on the board – and that’s where Bowen PCYC’s free Skateboarding Workshop comes in.

The local not-for-profit organisation is inviting enthusiasts of all ages and all abilities to head to Queens Beach Skate Park this weekend for live demonstrations, tutorials, and a free sausage sizzle.

The Skateboarding Workshop will begin Saturday for beginners from the ages of 5-17 from 2.00pm to 3.15pm, then invites Intermediates from age eight upwards to join on the same day from 3.45pm to 5.00pm.

On Sunday, the park is welcoming all abilities and all ages of skateboarders from 9.30am to 11.00am before a live demonstration from a group of high-level skateboarders from ‘Rumble on the Reef’ -Mackay’s annual national skateboarding festival and competition.

Bowen PCYC Branch Manager and Police Sergeant Michelle O’Regan said they are excited to be able to continue working alongside the Rumble team to bring these workshops to Bowen.

“Donny Fraser, who is a part of the Austra-

Cheese, Wine, And Art Auction

Art lovers and passionate community members are invited to a special cheese and wine evening due to be held at the 3 Little Birds Espresso Bar in Airlie Beach tonight.

The evening is dedicated to fundraising for mounting costs needed to facilitate the ongoing legal battle against the approved high-rise development at Port of Airlie.

lian Skateboarding Community Initiative, and the Rumble Team have a wealth of experience to offer for our skateboarders in Bowen,” Sergeant O’Regan said.

“We are extremely lucky to have them –it’s even made me consider jumping on a skateboard!”

The Skateboarding Workshop is currently the last of its kind planned for 2023, though Sergeant O’Regan said more were “in the works” and the PCYC will host a skateboarding competition in June.

WHAT: Skateboarding Workshop

WHEN: Saturday, April 1 from 2.00pm, and Sunday, April 2 from 9.30am

WHERE: Queens Beach Skate Park

Local action group, Save Our Foreshore, are heading to the Planning and Environment Court next month to ask that the 47.7-metre high-rise planned for the site is replaced with the three to five storey resort that adheres to the town plan.

Many local artists have shown their support for the cause by donating artwork which will be auctioned at this evening’s event.

A range of artworks are available, including paintings, a voucher for a portrait, ceramic vases, sculptures, a cast iron wall decoration, and a picture framing voucher. All proceeds will go directly towards paying for upcoming legal costs.

“It will be an auction of a collection of fabulous art and craft works donated by

Whitsunday artists, residents and friends of Save Our Foreshore,” said organiser Faye Chapman.

“We would like to thank all those wonderfully talented artists and craftspeople, and individuals who have generously donated works and their time for our auction.

“Your support is vital for an event such as this. Thanks to you all.”

WHAT: Arts and Crafts Exhibition and Auction

WHEN: Friday, March 31

WHERE: 3 Little Birds Espresso and Creative Arts Hub, Airlie Beach

TIME: 5.30pm – 7.30pm

TICKETS: Entry by donation

Geed UP Music are back in Airlie Beach for an Easter Weekend like no other, courtesy of The Pub

The incredible trio will set the bar-top stage alight at The Airlie Beach Hotel with three separate afternoon performances

Geed Up will bring comedy, charisma, and choreography to Airlie Beach for their fifth-ever performance in the Whitsundays

Bowen PCYC will host a Skateboarding Workshop at Queens Beach Skate Park this weekend

Local families were feeling fortunate after a full day of free fun at Proserpine’s Pioneer Park for the Whitsunday Regional Council Get Active Family Fun Day. The successful Whitsunday Regional Council facilitated mental health and wellbeing event invited the community out to enjoy workshops, fitness activities, games, food, information, and entertainment from local organisations.

Activities ranged from live music, sports booths, non-for-profit information stalls, face painting at the second Get Active event of the year, and the region’s third ever.

Parents enjoyed a bit of “relaxation time” as children went wild on the jumping castle, employed their burgeoning artistic skills with crafts, or braved a meeting with some of the Whitsundays’ local wildlife – a beautiful, opalescent snake.

Council will host two more Get Active events: Airlie Beach, Sunday, April 2; and Bowen, Saturday, April 15.

The Get Active Family Fun Day initiative is funded by the Queensland Government, Mental Health and Wellbeing Community Package under Queensland’s Economic Recovery Strategy.

Arborists

Did you know?

Whitpro’s chipper can chip an 18-inch, 20-metre-tall eucalypt tree in six minutes! Our spider reaches 21 metres high and 12 metres out to reach the tallest of trees in the most difficult areas. It’s also used by plumbers and painters for its reach.

Whitpro are the local professionals when it comes to safe and efficient tree pruning and removal. Services include removal, stump removal, de-nutting, pruning and tree relocation.

Images: Declan Durrant

“Extraordinary Support” Over $5000 Raised At Dementia Morning Tea

Hundreds of Whitsunday locals attended Quota Whitsundays’ Dementia Morning Tea fundraiser and raised between five and six thousand dollars in support of Proserpine Nursing Home residents who are living with the devastating condition.

“It was amazing; we had over 160 people attend and it was a huge success,” Quota Whitsundays Inc. Event Coordinator Jacqui Barrett said.

“For a morning tea, that’s huge. The community businesses support and to have the community turn out like they did, even when there were other events on, that is extraordinary.

“Just a cup of tea together and look at what we can raise.”

Proserpine Nursing Home General Manager Susan Blyth spoke at the event, detailing how integral the funds raised would be for the Nursing Home’s Dementia Unit and Dementia Australia.

“Proserpine Nursing Home belongs to this community,” Ms Blyth said.

Nursing Home residents provided some of the day’s entertainment, performing some “Golden Oldie” songs, as well as routines from Edge Dance School, Chez’s House of Dance, and an Irish performance by Proserpine band ‘Momma’s and Pappa’s’.

The well-attended event was supported by almost every business in the Whitsundays, from Archers Soft drinks and Harry Brown to the Proserpine Museum, Red Cat Adventures, Plants Whitsunday, Nunkeri Place, and more, and the venue was provided by St Catherine’s Catholic College Proserpine.

Ms Barrett said that sixty-one prizes were donated from local businesses, totalling roughly $3000.

“It was very well supported from Proserpine and Airlie Beach,” she said.

“People just wanted to give and people approached us even on the day saying that they wanted to support us in future events.”

The over $5000 raised will be donated to the Proserpine Nursing Home and Dementia Australia.

PLATINUM SPONSORS:

• Cane Country Tyres

• Infrabuild

• Brown and Hurley

• Pacific National

GOLD SPONSORS:

• Burdekin Demolition & Construction Services

• Crop Wise

• Humphries Pty Ltd

• Pursehouse Rural

• Valmar Engineering

• Whitsunday Law

• Whitsunday Regional Council

• Wilmar

SILVER SPONSORS:

• ADN Testing Services

• Airlie Cranes and Rigging

• BMC Transport

• Ellico Group Pty Ltd

• Filbys Motors

• Macrossan & Amiet

• NEM Group

• P & D Industrial

• Polley’s Real Estate Whitsundays

• Proserpine Electrical Services

• Show Whitsunday

• BG&E Resources

BRONZE SPONSORS:

• Banks Transport

• BMS Laser

• Bray Controls

• Breezewater

• Crokers Fuel & Oils Pty Ltd

• Dowdens Pumping &

Water Treatment

• Etwell Commercial Cleaners

• Ezilend

• Haymans Airlie Beach

• Main Engineering

• McDonald Smith Plumbing

• Milne Brothers Proserpine

• Nutrien Ag Solutions

• PD Law

• QSL Limited

• Rogers Goldman

CHARITY AUCTION AND LUCKY DOOR PRIZES:

• Airlie Fitness

• Barraworld

• Cruise Whitsundays

• Dowdens Pumping

• Honeycombes

• Infrabuild

• Main Engineering

• Northerlies Beach Bar and Grill

• NQAS Powershed Proserpine

• Ocean Roads Whitsundays

• Pacific National

• Proserpine Tyre Service

• Southern Cross Industrial Group (Carlisle Tractors)

• Whitsunday Crocodile Safari

• Whitsunday Mowers

• Ballistic Beer Company

• Garden Bar and Bistro

• Whitsunday Green

• RACQ CQ Rescue

OTHER CONTRIBUTIONS:

• Azure Weddings

• Climate Classics

• Containers for Change

• Elders - Robert Murolo

• Gary Simpson

• Jenny Muller

• JJ Richards

• McDonalds Cannonvale

• Mens Shed

• Prossy Pies

• Whitsunday Tickets

• Whitsunday Engineering

• Lance Staniland

• Geoffrey Riley

• Lionel & Michelle Dunk

• Bar Staff and Other ladies and gents who have helped with set up etc…

• All those who provided photos for the slide show

Over $5000 was raised by Quota Whitsundays Inc. at their wellsupported community event, a Dementia Morning Tea fundraiser

Dancers from local studios provided a portion of the morning event’s entertainment

61 prizes were donated by local businesses from both Airlie Beach and Proserpine

160 people attended from the community and helped to raise the funds which will go to Dementia Australia and Proserpine Nursing Home

The tables of community members enjoyed the fruits of Quota’s labours: biscuits, high tea, cookies, brownies, and more

The Committee of the Cut Out Party would like to thank its Supporters, Sponsors, Donors and Volunteers for helping make the event such a success.

Prossie Teams Perform In Junior Cricket Grand Finals

The final games of the Mackay Junior Cricket Association were underway last weekend, with four Proserpine Pitbulls teams across the age groups playing off for Premiership Shields.

Proserpine Pitbulls Under 11 Versus North Mackay Devils

The Under 11s between the Proserpine Pitbulls and Mackay Norths Devils started captain Kobi at the helm of the Proserpine side.

Winning the toss, the captain sent Aiden (15 runs) and Bradley (8 runs) out for the Pitbulls, followed by Ellen (3) and Matthew (15), who kept the ball rolling with excellent running between the wickets.

Zahra (2) and Sean (4) were hit with some of the Devil’s best bowlers, doing well to get runs on the board. And Laura (4) and Kobi (8) finished off the innings well, putting the side at a competitive total of 5/91 off 20.

Kobi began the bowling (1/6 off 3) and had the Norths heads going round, taking out middle stump with a cracking leg spinner – and three runouts in a spectacular display of fielding.

Laura (1/6 off 3) was also getting some good turn of the ball picking up a wicket and a great runout. Matthew bowled an excellent three over’s ending with figures of (4/4) assisted by the safe hands of Aiden.

Sean (0/5 off 1) shared in the wicket keeping duties and showed a huge improvement snatching every ball that came his way. Zahra (0/16 off 3) was unlucky not to get a wicket with a few near misses.

Ellen (0/7 off 2) was at her reliable best but was unlucky not to pick up a wicket.

Aiden (0/10 off 2) finished it off, bowling with good pace, not getting a wicket but taking three great catches in the field and ending 11/69 - an excellent win for the Pitbulls.

Under 11s Player of the day went to captain Kobi for an outstanding all-round performance.

Proserpine Pitbulls Under 12 Versus North Mackay Devils

In the Under 12s Final it was again between the Pitbulls and Norths, with this the biggest game of the Proserpine youngsters careers.

Captain Ben Hope won the toss and elected to bowl.

The pumped up opening due of Ben H (03) and Noah Porter ripped in early with some tight line and length bowling.

This pressure soon led to the dangerous left- hand opening bat playing a loose shot off Noah P (1-4) to land in the safe hands of Captain Ben at mid-on.

A Norths fightback followed with both batters reaching their 20 balls to retire.

Shannon Matthews (0-11) and spinner Ollie Dibben (1-5) then took the ball to continue applying Pitbull pressure – Norths 1-26 after 9 overs.

Lily Smith (1-8) soon drew a rash shot from the gun Norths representative Captain that skied in the direction of Ollie D at square leg, with the young fielder making a full-length diving catch to turn the game.

Alex Valmadre stepped up (0-9) to keep it tight at one end whilst upcoming star Tyrone Sellings commenced his spell just prior to the break.

After the break, young spin wizard Korbin Dibben (2-2) mesmerised a Norths batter with his turn to top edge one to Shannon M who took a pressure catch at square leg. Korbin then cleaned bowled the next batter with another turner before Keeper Reg Davies (1-3) then had a bowl with immediate results to take a crucial wicket leaving all-rounder Ollie D (1-5) to clean up the tail with his quicker delivery – Norths all out for 53.

Alex V and Reg D opened the batting: both enduring some hostile bowling from the opening, and the Devils wouldn’t let up with Alex V (4) struck on the pad in front – Pits 1-10.

The pups worked it up to 2-35 while Young Tyrone S (0) held off the desperate Norths bowlers with some great defence.

After a couple of nervous pushes into the covers, it soon became obvious young Noah P had seen enough.

Demanding the strike, it was his timefour balls, four boundaries, game over: the Premiership Shield headed up the highway for the season.

Pitbulls Under 13 Battle North Mackay Magpies White

Players Player - Noah Porter (1-4, 16 no)

The U13 Pitbulls were up next, facing Magpies White in the U13’s Final at Vigaro Oval in Mackay.

After going through the season undefeated, the Pitbulls looked the favourite, and for the first time this season, had the luxury of having 10 players to choose from in the final.

Captained by Kai MacLoughlin, the U13’s Pitbulls went into bat with a wet outfield from overnight rain.

The opening pair of J. Rock (9*) and L. Riley (13*) set up the innings with an unbeaten opening partnership of 25 runs with both players retiring after their 20 balls.

The next two batsmen - M. Logan and K. McLoughlin - continued the solid start with both players scoring freely and consolidating the teams innings with Matthew and Kai retiring on 20* and 26*, respectively.

With the Pitbulls yet to lose a wicket, W.

Logan and O. Seamer came into bat and continued to take on the Magpies bowlers with O. Seamer scoring 17* from his 20 balls.

The first wicket to fall was W. Logan (10) in the 18th over with the score at 1-130. J. Geisler and J. Lawn then came to the crease and attempted to push the scoring along with J. Geisler (11) being dismissed in the 20th over.

With five overs remaining, the Magpies bowlers fought back with some accurate bowling, slowing the Pitbulls scoring rate. The remaining Pitbull batmen J. Lawn (9), B. Childs (5*) and E. Baker taking the Pitbulls to a very competitive score of 4-160 after 25 overs.

K. McLoughlin and B. Childs opened the bowling for the Pitbulls with perfect execution.

K. McLoghlin bowled their opening batsman on the final ball of the first over to have the Magpies 1-6, and With accurate bowling and great fielding, the Pitbulls continued to restrict the Pies.

B. Childs had the second Magpies caught by J. Lawn at mid-off, Magpies 2-15. B. Childs started the Pitbulls sixth over with immediate success bowling the second opening batsman.

After six overs, L. Riley was bought into the bowl the seventh over and with his second ball took the fourth wicket through some excellent catching by J.Lawn to have the Magpies 4-17.

Following the initial losses, the Magpies next batting pair then consolidated their team’s position to be 4–42.

With the Pitbulls refreshed and refocused on their game plan, M. Logan took the ball and bowled a 13th over maiden, before O. Seamer was given the ball for the 14th over, taking two wickets for one run in the over to have the Magpies 6–43.

M. Logan then followed up his earlier maiden over, bowling the batsman to take the Pitbulls seventh wicket. With the remaining two Magpies batmen surviving O. Seamer’s next over, J. Geisler was brought into the attack with immediate effect having their final wicket brilliantly caught by K. McLoughlin on his first ball to win the Final.

Any member of the U13 Pitbulls team could be given the player of the match, so the award was given to the whole team.

Pitbulls Under 15 Final Against Pioneer Valley Panthers

The final showdown was between the Proserpine Pitbulls and the Pioneer Valley Panthers at Harrup Park to decide who would be crowned under 15s junior cricket champions of 2023.

Panthers won the toss and sent the Pitbulls in to bat, with Captain B. Valmadre and C. Stroud opening the batting – and Pitbulls only whimpered to an early 2-13. More batsmen fell before J. Williams showed his credentials hitting one of the few boundaries of the innings and getting some much-needed runs late in the overs.

A. Geisel and J. Watson grabbed a few much-needed runs in the dying overs and closed out the innings with the Pitbulls having to defend a measly total of 9-89. The Pitbulls came out firing after the break, with their enthusiasm rewarded early with B.Valmadre trapping their opener in front on the second delivery of the innings.

L. McDermid wanted a piece of the action in the second over, and with the bouncy wicket assisting once more, he caught the prize wickets bat high, in turn sending the ball towards a sprinting J. Watson who covered the ground to take a solid catch. The team was in raptures and the Pitbulls started to believe.

Tight bowling kept the score low early, but it crept up slowly, and soon Panthers were at 9-83.

Panthers needed seven runs to win, the Pitbulls needed one wicket: A single, a four, a dot ball, and a two led Panthers to win one of the tightest games this year –one worthy of a grand finale.

Contributed with thanks to Mike Hope, Stephen Logan, Craig Valmadre, and Mark Porter

The Proserpine Pitbulls junior cricketers faced off in four finals last weekend, pictured here are the U11s side

The U12s’ team with Coach Mark and the ending scoreboard

Local Touch Footy Star Selected For North Queensland

TOUCH FOOTBALL

Ayoung Whitsunday local has been picked for the Under 12’s Girls North Queensland Touch Football team on her third consecutive attempt to win a place.

Proving that determination truly pays off, Lanie Hazeltine was successful at trials in Ayr earlier this month.

“It’s a really good feeling!” she said. “This was the third time I tried and the last time I could get into the team.”

Lanie started playing Touch Footy when she moved to the region two

years ago.

Previously, she had been playing Oz Tag and her mother recommended Touch Footy as the local alternative.

In 2020 she represented the Whitsundays in the Under 12 Proserpine team while she was at primary school but was too young to enter the North Queensland Trials. The following years, Lanie represented the Whitsundays again but was unsuccessful in reaching North Queensland, until this year. It was her last opportunity to do so because she is now at the top of the age bracket.

“I love running,” she said.

“I play on the Wing, but I can play anywhere, and I love scoring goals!”

Lanie is looking forward to competing for North Queensland in Cairns in May and she is bringing her whole family along.

When asked what advice she would give to another young and aspiring sports star she said:

“Never give up and always keep pushing yourself.”

“My coach used to tell me to play hard, play until you drop dead on the floor and then you know you’ve done a good job.”

Tough Weekend For United

Raiders Take The Win In Grand Final Rematch

RUGBY UNION

Whitsunday United’s Division

One men were hopeful of upsetting the visiting Rangers Squads on Friday night with games at home, but were caught flat footed.

In the first 20 minutes, Rangers piled on five goals, and despite United rallying, the side couldn’t match the speed and work rate of the young Rangers squad, 1-8. Division Two was a different story with the teams more evenly matched, but Whitsunday struggled to capitalise on periods of good possession, losing 1-3.

The U13 Squads played in Mackay with the Divisions ide coming within a whisker of a win, putting in a solid and consistent effort and applying pressure at every opportunity but lost 2-1.

The U13 Prems were up against top of the table Lions who had conceded only one goal all year. After a bright start by the Whitsunday team, four quick goals by Lions swung the game: end result 5-0 Lions’ way.

U15 Division One continued their winning ways with a stunning effort against Magpies winning 11-2 - outstanding play across the park.

U15 Premiers had a hard fought draw against the Lions in tough conditions, flying out of the blocks with three early goals – two scored by Reef Peel and a great strike

by Max O’Keefe.

The Lions fought back to even the score at three all.

The Women played two tough games against Lions with both sides going down 2-1 despite good efforts.

The Reserves took an early lead with a Kiki Taylor scoring off a Dani Kinnear goal kick but conceding two in the second half.

The Prem side gave the top of the table Lions a run for their money. Again, Dani Kinnear featured in a stunning goal by Eva Foran which evened the score at 1-1. Keeper Chloe Bake was a stalwart between the posts but was unable to stop a Lions win through a late penalty.

The Senior Men played at home against Wanderers.

After a shaky start, conceding two early goals, the Reserve side gained control, consistently winning back the ball, dominating possession, and evening up the score with a phenomenal long range shot by Andrew Fallon-Johnston.

In the second half, the side stamped their authority on the game and ran out winners 3-2 for their first win of the season.

The Premier Men came up against the title favourites and after a slow start worked their way back into the game but were unable to respond to a Wanderers goal and went down 1-0.

Contributed with thanks to Allan Milostic

The Proserpine Whitsunday Rugby Union Senior Men kicked off their 2023 season last Saturday with a Grand Final rematch away from home against the Bowen Mudcrabs. Both teams started nervously, until the 29th minute, when Raiders Jesse Reichelt took a quick penalty tap and crossed the line for the first try of the match.

Shortly after, some quick hands through the back line saw Enelaki Faataape cross for the Raiders second try. On the stroke of half time, Connor Spence performed a great kick and chase to score a try which was converted by Jack Briskey to make the halftime score 17 nil to Raiders. Bowen came out strong and dominated territory in the second half, and although the Raiders defence held strong, Bowen managed to cross for their one and only try from a penalty tap five metres out in the 61st minute.

Raiders came back and finished well with Enelaki Faataape crossing for his second try in the corner, followed by a fantastic conversion from Connor Spence.

Men’s best on ground votes: Peni (Ben) Tuibre three, Dylan Hoffmann two, and Waikato Nepian-Katipa one. Final score: Whitsunday Raiders 24-5 Bowen Mudcrabs

Meanwhile, The Raiders Ladies toured south to play at Mackay Lions for the first game of their season with technical wins for both games due to forfeits from Kuttabul and Slade Point.

In true sportsperson style, the two Mackay sides joined to play a mixed friendly match.

Ladies played some great rugby implementing a 7s format. Big mention to Meg Skuthorp and Keely Salter, also to Deakoda Costello for filling in numbers on other side.

The Proserpine Whitsunday Raiders are looking forward to their first home game this Saturday at the Whitsunday Sportspark - Ladies kicking off from 1.00pm against Slade Point, 3.00pm against Kuttabul Boketts, and Mens at 3.30pm against the Kuttabul Camelboks.

Contributed with thanks to Toni Ward

Sports star Lanie Hazeltine plays for Under 12’s Girls North Queensland Touch Football. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

Whitsunday United’s Under 15 Division One sided celebrated a thumping win against Mackay Magpies

Manaia Hauiti making a darting run in the Proserpine Whitsunday Raiders Union Senior Men’s win over the Bowen Mudcrabs

The Raiders celebrate Connor Spence scoring a try

Airlie Beach Bowls

Tuesday afternoon Ladies Day at Airlie Beach Bowls Club hosted a spectacular display of bowls by Regina Aqualina, and Robin and John Brown in an impressive victory.

Wednesday afternoon Jackpot bowls had a huge winner in John Askew’s team of Tony Kelly and Eric Barnard.

The side were at their ultimate best time after time and commanding a 32-15 win for the prize mone, whilst Mario De Martini took home the Health Hub Award.

Wednesday night Business House Bowls: Hadlow Racing and Tuk Tuks finish on top and will play each other this week for their name on the trophy.

Thursday afternoon will see the final of the school’s three bowls triples with a sausage sizzle and prize giving to end the term.

Saturday morning was the return of Scroungers, and the first round winners Tony Whitehorn, Russell Jackson, Betty Whitehorn, and John Askew.

The semi-finals were between Tony and Betty Whitehorn, which Tony won. The

Wangaratta Bowls

BOWLS

Tuesday’s Winners were Stumpy Adams, Laurie Land, and Kevin Jewel against Gwenda Lydom, Denise Wallace, and Penny Warren at Wangaratta Bowls Club.

Tracey Stanford, Deb Retchless, Robyn Stitt, and Marg Wilson joined the winner’s circle for the Tuesday competition, defeating Bron Tolcher, Merle Elphinstone, Sue Shearing, and Isobel Wheeler.

second semi-final was between John and Russell, with Russell winning that contest, but the final belonged to Tony with a fantastic win. Margo Stanley won Group B. Sunday afternoon had a big roll up and it was again the Tony Whitehorn show with an impressive victory with his talented team of Dawn Dowel and Lu Rogan.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

Bowen Golf News

GOLF

Wednesday’s competition at Bowen Golf Club was a single par event sponsored by the Club, with Ladies’ winner Kim Bennion on a comfortable +3.

Runner up for the women was Bonnie Kohlhase, 0, and Men’s winner on a countback was Paul Martin +2, followed by Kurt Bidgood, also +2.

Saturday’s competition was a 4BBB stroke event for the Men’s double Matchplay qualifier with winners on 61 nett in the men’s Craig Newell and Michael Mawson. Runners-up were Greg Fairs and Tom Wikander 62 nett.

Sunday was the ladies double Matchplay qualifier and winners with 63 nett were Jo Kukura and Julie Martin, while runners up were Meg and Claire Garrod, 64 nett.

Bowen Golf Club’s Ladies’ 4BBB winners

Pin shots to Leanne Swan, Grace Nott, Annie Mason, and Julie May.

The Club will host another split round again this weekend: Men and Ladies will play a stroke event for the April Monthly medals; Ladies play on Saturday and Men on Sunday.

Both competitions are sponsored by Bowen Meat Supply and Bowen Golf club.

Contributed with thanks to Grace Nott

Club Competition Ladies handicapped consistency results went to Jocelyn Defranciscis, who defeated Robyn Stitt.

Ladies A Pairs: Denise Wallace and Penny Warren defeated Merle Elphinstone and Isobel Wheeler. And in the Men’s A Singles, Greg Colquhoun defeated Jason Wright.

Sunday social bowls resulted in the winners coming out on Rink 5: Merle Elphinstone, Penny Warren, and Kevin Jewell defeated Deb Retchless, Sue Shearing, and Kennedy Whitton.

Other results saw Robyn Stitt, Teresa Willshire, and Geoff Danvers defeat Irene

Lindy Suann, Graeme Read,

On Saturday Bowen Bowling Board of Control second round of Men’s local pennant resulted in Bowen Bowls Club defeating Collinsville with three match wins eight rinks plus 90.

The final round will be played against Wangaratta in Collinsville in June.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

Whitsunday Social Golf

GOLF

The first round of the three-roundthree-person ambrose sponsored by Whitsunday Concrete Constructions and Proserpine Golf Club was played last weekend with 30 players forming teams to compete.

The winning team at Whitsunday Social Golf for round one on 61.5 nett was Darren Reyolds, Vicki Tuckm and Scott Vlismas.

Second place on 62.3 went to Jason Bourke, Pam Casey, and Clay Coles, and third place on 62.5 was Roger Vanden-

berg, Karen Rix, and Don Cameron. Longest drivers were claimed by Darren Reynolds, Mark McDougall, Penny Wardroper, and Karen Rix.

Nearest the pins were Jason, Pam, Clay, Dave Hoy, Anna Winterbourn, Ron Jamieson, Karen, Roger, Don, Scott, Vicki, and Darren.

NAGA award went to Paul Nicol, Pauline Redpath, and Tiina Randmae.

Next Sunday will be the Club’s April monthly medal.

Contributed with thanks to Joanne Moynihan

Shane and Vicki Spann holding their recent trophy from the District championship games

Laird, Linda Scells, and Allan Rolfe. Roger Mumby, Isobel Wheeler, and Mark Drummond defeated Bill Myers, Lyn Danvers, and Kevin Daniels. Bron Tolcher, Laurie Land, and Greg Colquhoun defeated

and Pat Tracey.

The Sunday winners at Wangaratta Bowls Club: Penny Warren and Kevin Jewell with President Mark Drummond

Proserpine Bowls Club Report

Proserpine Golf Report

GOLF

The weather was the winner last week at Proserpine Golf Club, defeating everyone on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.

The Club managed to head back on the course on Friday for the 9-hole social competition where Paul Gray led the way, winning the Metropole Hotel Voucher on 20 points, and narrowly defeating Harry Milne on a countback.

Michael Cragg came in third with 19 points and the Club’s new member Karlene Lloyd carded an impressive 18 for fourth position.

BOWLS

Proserpine Bowls Club bowlers attended the annual Northern Challenge played at Northern Beaches in Mackay last weekend.

North Queensland came out overall winners with Mackay taking second and third place, with five Proserpine players taking roles in the Mackay teams.

Proserpine players Wayne Handley and Grahame Kinnear were selected to participate in District Sides at Coolum in May after their excellent performances.

On Wednesday, there were ten players for social bowls and Sandy Daffara and Bruce Uhe defeated Pat Bownds and Philip Brown 42-11; while John Anderson, Jim Bownds, and Warren Wilson defeated Alen Sanderson, Mike Harrison, and Barry Zillmann 29-10.

On Sunday, the club welcomed visitors from Capricorn Tourers Caravan Club for a game of Social Bowls – thanks to Bruce and Barbara Uhe for the work done in preparing food.

The participants had an absolutely fabulous day and will go away from our District with their game of bowls a highlight of their week in town.

Jenny Cox, George Baxter, and Jim Quod defeated Christine Hansen, Alen Sanderson, and Heather Brown, 19–15.

Michael Hong, Bev Burton and Philip Brown defeated Donny Wandery, Colleen McDonald and Yvonne Wilson 24-11.

Sonny Cox, John Anderson and Sandy Daffara defeated Gary Benney, Kay Hong, and Warren Wilson 24-8; and Marion Maxter, Mike Harrison, and Bruce Uhe defeated Mary Benney, Mike Harrison, and Mary Hedgelong, 23-10.

Pennants Season will begin soon. Available players may sign their name on the noticeboard sheet on at the club, or speak with Barry Saroglia.

The Singles game of Mike Harrison v Kendall Watts will be played on Wednesday starting at 4.00pm.

Contributed with thanks to Heather Brown

Sea Eagles Women Win First Up!

AFL

Whitsunday Sea Eagles

Senior Men and Women kicked off their 2023 Season campaigns on Saturday with openers against Eastern Swans at Rogers Oval.

The first match of 2023 for the Sea Eagles Senior Women saw a different looking team with nine new players coming into the teamsome moving up from Juniors and others new recruits.

After a relatively successful Preseason Carnival saw some wins on the board, the Sea Eagles Women showed what they are capable of this year, smashing the Eastern

Swans 44–8 and opening their campaign for the cup in style.

Putting in some hard yards at preseason training is showing early rewards for the team coming together to work the ball forward and hit the scoreboard.

Sea Eagles Senior Men debuted eight players after a number of players moved in the off season.

The side’s first match up began in sluggish fashion with Eastern Swans getting the jump early putting a number of goals on the scoreboard.

Sea Eagles were able to work their way back into the game by the end of the second quarter leading to the

Paul Gray and John Roser were the Nearest The Pin winners.

Kenny Todd and Conrad Werner edged out their nearest competitors by just one point on Saturday with 45 to take out the 4BBB stableford competition ahead of Mark Richards and Jill Farinelli on 44 pts.

Kelvin Stephens and Lewis Tuck in third position with close 43.

There were only 2x2 shots for the dayBrian Allen and Andrew Colborne - and the NTP winners were John Wallace, Tina Badenhorst, Paul Joice, and Trish McNeill.

Contributed with thanks to The Proserpine Golf Club Pro Shop Team

Cannonvale Cannons Season Finale

SWIMMING

The Cannonvale Cannons hosted their last weekly Club Night for the swim season last Wednesday, beginning the occasion with a presentation to its National Team representatives.

Swimmers Jacob Bell, Holly Perrin, Jy Parkinson, Ehsan and Anisa Helou, and coach Mark Erickson will represent the region in attending the Australian Age Championships and were presented with a special pack and shirt by the local swimming club.

The Cannons also extended their best wishes to Isabella Pisaniello, Ruby Harland, Don Algie, Jax Clayworth, Anis and Ehsan Helou, Remy Hedges, Holly Perrin, Jacob Bell, and Jy Parkinson in their selection for the North Queensland School Swim teams at the Queensland championships this week in Brisbane.

At the Club Night, Club Official Jane Delac presented Jax Clayworth and Ehsan Helou with Club Records.

Jax set records for 50-metre Butterflyin 38.6 seconds - and the 100-metre IM in 1.29.55, while Ehsan set a record for 50-metre Breaststroke in a time of 34.06 seconds.

The Chocolate Awards for the best personal bests were presented to Bianca Anderson, Millie Groom, and Harris Delac.

Upgrade Certificates were presented to Evie Doherty, Roxy Groom, Declan Di-

Swans coming out again hard after half time to increase their lead.

Sea Eagles continued to gel and were able to reduce Swans lead to only 2 goals however were unable to make it over the line in the end losing 53–66.

With this weekend a bye and Easter to follow, Sea Eagles Seniors will resume their competition on April 15, with Senior Men travelling to the Hawks at Harrup Park and Senior Women heading out to Moranbah with Sea Eagles Under 17s to match the Bulldogs.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Sea Eagles

chiera, Isaac Pisaniello, Stevie Lee, Jasper Korosec, Isabella Pisaniello, Zach Trefz, Zane Clayworth, Harry Crisp, Millie Groom, Abi Maher, and Anisa Helou. Highlights from Club Night include - top performers achieving the most personal bestss: Bianca Anderson, Clare Anderson, Liam Filewood, Indi Smith, Isabella Pisaniello, Isaac Pisaniello, Connor Lee, Jack Ganter, Roxy Groom, Ehsan Helou, Lucas Korosec, Celeste Orenshaw, and Charlie Doherty.

Jax Clayworth swimming an excellent 200-metre IM in a time of 3.16.71 which was a 14.82 second personal best. Addie Sanders swam an awesome 25-metre Butterfly in a time of 25.62 seconds.

Roxy Groom swam an impressive time of 2.01.17 in her 100-metre Breaststroke and Connor Lee swam a 7.70 second personal best in his 50-metre Butterfly.

Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen

Capricornia Caravan Touring Club with Proserpine member Jim Quod at the Bowls Club on Social Bowls Sunday

The Whitsunday Sea Eagles Senior Women won their first game in a comfortable 44-8 against Eastern Swans. Image:

Cannonvale Cannons Swimming Club swimmers Mark Ehsan, Holly Anisa, and Jacob will represent the region at the Australian Age Championships

Airlie Beach Parkrun COMMUNITY

This week 82 participants ran, jogged, and walked the five-kilometre waterfront course with new personal bests achieved by Lotte, Hudson, Kendell, Ian, Stephanie, Leighann, Melissa, Rosalyn, Emma, Michelle, Grant, and Elizabeth.

Jack and Kaitlyn completed their first parkrun and visitors Bethan, Ewan, Claire, Patrick, Ben, Michael, Leah, Zoe, Colleen, Juanita, and Michele.

Several milestones were celebrated; 25 parkruns as a volunteer for Sarah; 50 volunteers and 50 parkruns for Tail Walker Lynne; 100 parkruns for Stuart; 100 parkruns for Michael; and 100 parkruns for Sue.

The event was made possible thanks to RD Kara and her team of 14 fabulous volunteers: Nick, Kathryn, Andrea, Nathalie, Toma, Darlene, Ashley, Jolie, Aiden, Gus, Lynne, Dennis, Joanne and Emma.

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 lowest carpark till 9:30am if a parkrun barcode is placed on the dashboard. Post parkrun coffee and chat is held at My Rainbow Bakery & Cafe. The best-kept secret about parkrun is that it’s not about running - it’s about bringing people together in public parks and open spaces across the world to have some fun in a friendly, social and supportive environment. You can walk or run the 5k course (pushing a pram or with one dog on a short lead if you want to!), lend a helping hand as a volunteer in a wide range of super-easy roles, or simply spectate and socialise on the sidelines.

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

Whitsunday Sailing Club Report

SAILING

Astrong south easterly wind, with gusts in excess of 25 knots, was the order of the day for the Whitsunday Sailing Club twilight race on Wednesday.

A number of boats in the 13-boat fleet chose to reef their sails to ensure a more comfortable race, while not sacrificing speed.

Treasure VIII (Rob Davis) again made a perfectly timed start to take out the Doyle Sails sponsored best start prize, maintaining good performance against the faster boats for much of the race.

Bobby’s Girl (Mark Beale) led the fleet around the first rounding mark, with QMS Ponyo (John Galloway) close behind.

Smooth Criminal (Leo Rodriguez) struggled in the strong conditions and fell away from the leaders, having a great battle against Treasure VIII, while the heavier boats, Wide Load (Shannan Hart) and Twister (Kevin Fogarty) performed best in the strong wind.

Airlie Beach Darts

DARTS

This week’s Airlie Beach Darts Premier League action began with a round three catch up match between Gary Robbie and Dom Friend. Dom came flying out of the blocks, hitting a 180 and a few 140s in his 7/4 victory over Gary. Dom didn’t have it all his own way, though, as Gary lead the contest 3/1 during the early stages, showing positive signs for his season.

Both Gary and Dom featured again later in the day: Dom was held 6/6 with Andy Peel, whereas Gary’s day got worse, suffering a heavy 7/0 loss to Joe Wilson, who currently sits a point behind the league leader.

The round was closed out with an entertaining 6/6 draw between Arthur McMinn and Jamie Maher.

Arthur showed a lot of fight in that match, trailing 6/3 win before winning three legs on the trot to earn a valuable point.

Finally, Jamie Woods had a comfortable 7/1 win over Hawkeye Rick to go joint second on the table, equal with Joe and a point behind league leader Dom Friend.

The Premier League is sponsored by Mika Airlie, Whitsunday Tattooing, and Master Butchers Whitsunday. Thank you for supporting our club.

Contributed with thanks to Jamie Maher

ROUND 4 TABLE

1. D Friend 7 pts

2. J Wilson 6 pts

3. J Woods 6 pts

4. S Rose 3 pts

5. A Peel 3 pts

6. A McMinn 3 pts

7. K Reason 3 pts

8. J Maher 3 pts

9. J Lloyd 2 pts

10. G Robbie 2 pts

11. H Rick 0 pts

On corrected time, Twister took the honours over Wide Load and Treasure VIII. Wobbly Boot (Craig Piccinelli) was too keen to get a good start, resulting in a recall and having to restart in the next race.

This allowed Shiraz (John Cable) to lead the fleet away, with Matchless (Terrence Stevens) close behind.

After a slow start, Wobbly Boot soon joined the action at the front of the fleet, making it a 3 way battle, with the lead constantly changing.

On the last leg of the course Wobbly Boot made a decisive move, hitting the front at the crucial time to take line honours from Matchless and Shiraz.

Further back, both Rossgo (Greg Hammon) and Masquerade (Tom Vujasinovic) missed the start, sailing in close formation to finish 4th and 5th, while Lama (Louie Tuck) followed them home.

On corrected time, Shiraz took the honours over Rossgo and Masquerade.

Contributed with thanks to Ross Chisholm

2019 and 2022 league champions Andy Peel and Dom Friend doing battle at the Airlie Bowls Club on Sunday morning.

Most of the wonderful Airlie Beach parkrun volunteer team

Stuart completed his 100th parkrun last weekend

Greg Hammon’s boat Rossgo at full power in the Whitsunday Sailing Club Twilight Race on Wednesday

Whitsunday Regional Council - Public Notices & Tenders

Waste Facilities

Please be advised of the following changes to operating hours at the Transfer Stations and Landfills over the Easter period. Please note: Kerbside waste and recycling bin collection will operate as per normal during this time.

Libraries & Customer Service Centres

Customer Services Centres and Libraries across the Whitsunday Region will be closed for the festive period on the following dates:

Closing: 4.45pm, Thursday 6 April 2023

Reopening: 8.15am, Tuesday 11 April 2023

During this period our After Hours Emergency Team will be available on 1300 WRC QLD (972 753).

Airlie Beach Boardwalk Upgrades

From 24 April - 9 June 2023 (6 weeks), Whitsunday Regional Council are undertaking works on the Airlie Beach Boardwalk between Coral Sea Marina and Coral Sea Resort that will result in the temporary closure of this section. The works are required to renew the asset, which is experiencing increasing numbers of broken boards due to its age and requires frequent oiling to withstand the coastal environment. The project benefits include:

• Increased width of the boardwalk by up to 1m

• Increased capacity to cater for a mix of cyclists, pedestrians and commercial operators

• Improved safety, and

• Significantly reduced ongoing maintenance costs for ratepayers as timber is replaced with a more durable composite fibre material.

To mitigate impacts:

• A detour is available for users to move between Airlie Beach and Cannonvale via Shute Harbour Road that will be appropriately signed closer to the project commencement date, and

• We are investigating additional Whitsunday Transit bus services to stop at Coral Sea Marina, to support all access movement between the Marina and Airlie Beach.

We acknowledge the significant impacts of the project and apologise for the inconvenience created by the necessary works. Please view our Fact sheet and identify any project concerns prior to or during construction via our Online Engagement Portal - yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au. This project is supported by the Australian Governments Local Roads & Community Infrastructure grant.

Warren Bunker, Chief Executive Officer

Welcome To A Home That Has It All!!

Only 2 years old, this 280m2 property is the perfect blend of privacy, style, and sophistication, and it’s waiting for you to call it your own. As soon as you step inside you will be greeted by an expansive and welcoming living space this is perfect for entertaining your guests or just kicking back and enjoying some peace and quiet. The main living room boasts high ceilings and plenty of Natural light pouring in from the windows giving the space a nice airy feel.

As you make your way through the home, you will notice the attention to detail and the high-end finishes throughout, the kitchen is a cook’s dream with top-of-the-line appliances, stone benchtops,

and perfectly positioned to still entertain while cooking up a storm. Need some time to unwind, the media room is the perfect ticket.

But that’s just the beginning, step outside to the backyard and you will discover your very own oasis where you will find the big shed, the pool, and enough grass area for the kids to throw the footy around.

Although the owners have purchased elsewhere, they have loved every minute in this amazing home and we know that you will too, come and see this beauty for yourself.

18 Ripplecreek Way, Cannon Valley

CONTACT: Rhett Nelson 0499 009 855 rhett@taylorspropertyspecialists.com.au

Beachfront Block Of Land In Hideaway Bay

Imagine waking up in the morning with a cup of coffee or for an evening walk with a beer in hand and strolling just a few steps down to a stunning beach.

This 800sqm block of land on the beachfront in Hideaway Bay is perfect for building your dream beachside home and take full advantage of the breathtaking ocean and island views. What an amazing opportunity!

FOR SALE: 24 Gloucester Avenue, Hideaway Bay

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

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

Stylish And Convenient Townhouse

This beautifully maintained two-bedroom townhouse is nestled in a tranquil complex and boasts a multitude of features that are sure to charm you. From the modern kitchen to the ample living area and covered outdoor entertaining area with a courtyard, this home is a perfect fit for couples or small families.

• Two spacious bedrooms upstairs with built-in wardrobes

• Large laundry, powder room, and single lock-up garage

• Just a few minutes to Airlie Beach Esplanade

• Low body corporate fees

• Currently tenanted for $420 pw until October

PRICE: $325,000

3/12 Erromango Drive, Jubilee Pocket

CONTACT: Sarah Nutley 0484 895 217 sarah@taylorspropertyspecialists.com.au

212

BED BATH CAR

COMBINATION OFFICE WAREHOUSE

Multi-use office space covering a total of 240m2. Great central location close to the main shopping complex and other commercial businesses. Ample parking is available onsite. Body corp rates $1603 per quarter council rates $2162 half yearly & the sale will be plus GST

Additional features:

• 160m2 of fully airconditioned office space incorporating plenty of natural light, all freshly painted.

Full data cabled includes a patch panel and phone system.

• 80m2 of warehouse 6m high (approx.) 4.25W x 5.2H roller door

• A/C Lunchroom and two sets of amenities including a shower.

PRICE: $435,000 + GST

2/15 Carlo Drive, Cannonvale

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

Welcome To A Home That Has It All!!

Only 2 years old, this 280m2 property is the perfect blend of privacy, style, and sophistication, and it’s waiting for you to call it your own.

As soon as you step inside you will be greeted by an expansive and welcoming living space this is perfect for entertaining your guests or just kicking back and enjoying some peace and quiet. The main living room boasts high ceilings and plenty of Natural light pouring in from the windows giving the space a nice airy feel.

More property features include:

• Solar System – 6.6kw

• Pool – 7.4m x 4m

• Shed – 9mx 14m Dual road access

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST:

18 Ripplecreek Way, Cannon Valley

CONTACT: Rhett Nelson 0499 009 855

rhett@taylorspropertyspecialists.com.au

1.00 Speedweek. 2.30

Show. 3.00 Gymnastics. FIG Rhythmic World Cup series.

Round 1. Highlights. 5.00 Nippers.

5.05 Wrestling. 5.10 Starblasters Cricket. 5.15 Ky’s Story: Growing With Autism. 5.25 Ky’s Story: My Sister

Jorja. 5.40 Lost Gold Of World War II.

6.30 News. 7.30 Ancient Egypt: Top

7 Pyramids. 8.30 Easter Island: The Ancient Builders. 9.30 Muhammad

Ali. 12.00 24 Hours In Emergency.

1.50 How The Nazis Lost The War.

3.40 The Source. 4.30 Mastermind

Aust. 5.00 Late Programs.

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 11.30 News. 12.00 MOVIE: Web Of Dreams. (2019) 2.00 House Of Wellness. (PG) 3.00 The Chase.

4.00 News. 5.00 The Chase Aust.

6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 Morning Show. 12.00 House Of Wellness. 1.00 Better Homes. 2.00 Football. AFL. Round

3. Gold Coast v Geelong. 5.00 News. 5.30 Weekender. 6.00 News. 7.00 This Is Your Life. (PG) 8.50 Code 1: The Childers Backpacker Fire. (M)

9.50 Manhunt. (M) 10.50

7.30pm Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)

8.00 A Wild Year On Earth.

8.50 George Clarke’s Alaskan Adventure.

9.40

7.30pm Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)

8.00 Vera. (M, R)

9.30 Silent Witness. (M, R)

10.30 Killing Eve. (M, R)

11.15 Black Mirror. (MA15+, R)

12.45am Movie: Hook. (1991) (PG, R) Robin Williams, Dustin Hoffman, Julia Roberts.

5.30pm Escape To The Country. (R)

6.30 Bargain Hunt. (PG, R)

7.30 Doc Martin. (PG, R)

8.30 Inspector Morse. (M, R)

10.50 Air Crash Investigations. (PG, R) 11.50 Gold Digger. (M, R)

RSPCA Animal Rescue. (R) 1.30 Better Homes And Gardens. (R)

AFL. Round 3. St Kilda v Essendon.

6.00pm Rugby Union. Super Rugby Pacific. Round 6. ACT Brumbies v NSW Waratahs.

8.30 Super Rugby Pacific Post-Match.

8.45 Movie: Hang ’Em High. (1968) (M, R)

11.05 Deadly Cults. (MA15+, R) 12.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

12.30 My Favorite Martian. (R)

4.30pm Movie: Foreign Intrigue. (1956) (PG, R)

6.00pm Soccer. A-League Men. Matchweek 22. Sydney FC v Western United.

9.15 JAG. (PG, R)

10.15 MacGyver. (PG, R)

12.45

6.00pm American Pickers. (PG)

7.00 Pawn Stars. (PG, R)

7.30 Storage Wars. (PG)

8.00 Storage Wars: New York. (PG)

8.30 Movie: Memphis Belle. (1990) (PG, R) Matthew Modine.

10.45 Movie: Inside Out. (1975) (PG, R)

12.50 Counting Cars. (PG, R)

1.50 Storage Wars. (PG, R)

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

6.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

7.30 Death In Paradise. (M, R)

8.40 The Madame Blanc Mysteries. (M)

9.40 Coroner. (MA15+)

10.40

8.30 Penn & Teller: Fool Us. (PG)

9.15 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

9.45 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (PG, R)

10.15 Gruen. (M, R)

10.55 Shaun Micallef’s MAD AS HELL. (M, R)

5.30pm Escape To The Country. (R)

6.30 Bargain Hunt. (PG, R)

7.30 Heartbeat. (PG, R)

8.45 Foyle’s War. (M, R)

10.55 Frankie Drake Mysteries. (M, R)

11.55 Cities Of The Underworld. (PG, R)

12.55 RSPCA Animal Rescue. (R)

6.00pm American Pickers. (PG)

7.00 Pawn Stars. (PG)

7.30 Highway Patrol. (PG, R)

8.30 Motorbike Cops. (PG, R)

9.30 Motorway Patrol. (PG, R)

10.30 Surveillance Oz.

(PG, R)

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

6.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

7.30 As Time Goes By. (R)

8.50 Midsomer Murders. (M, R)

10.50 Law & Order. (M, R)

11.50 Footy Classified. (M)

1.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

1.30

1.25 Better Homes And Gardens. (R)

11.30 Crash Investigation Unit. (PG, R)

9.30 Movie: The Operative. (2019) (MA15+)

11.40 Movie: White Boy Rick. (2018) (MA15+, R) 7.30pm Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) 8.00 QI. (M, R)

5.30pm Escape To The Country. (R)

6.30 Bargain Hunt. (PG, R) 7.30 Father Brown. (M, R) 8.30 Murdoch Mysteries. (M)

6.00pm American Pickers. (PG, R)

7.00 Pawn Stars. (PG, R)

7.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. (PG)

8.30 Inside Dubai. (PG)

9.45 Air Crash Investigations. (PG)

10.45 Movie: The Time Machine. (2002) (M, R)

12.50 American Pickers. (PG, R)

2.00 Restoration Workshop. (PG, R)

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

6.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

7.30 RBT. (M, R)

R) 9.30 To Be Advised. 10.30 Silent Witness. (MA15+, R) 11.40 Rosewood. (M, R) 12.35 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 5.30pm JAG. (PG, R) 6.30 Scorpion. (PG, R) 7.30 Bull. (M, R) 8.30 NCIS. (M, R) 9.30 NCIS: New Orleans. (M, R) 10.30 Matildas Preview Show. 11.00 SEAL Team. (M, R) 12.00 48 Hours. (M, R) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 6.00pm Friends. (PG, R) 6.30 Friends. (PG, R) 7.05 Friends. (PG, R) 8.00 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 9.05 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 9.30 Seinfeld. (PG, R) 11.00 Frasier. (PG, R) 12.00 Home Shopping. (R) 1.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG, R) 5.45pm The Joy Of Painting With Bob Ross. (R) 6.15 Forged In Fire. (PG, R) 7.05 Jeopardy! (R) 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M, R) 8.30 The Curse Of Oak Island. (PG) 10.10 The Inside Story. 11.00 The UnXplained With William Shatner. (M, R) ABCTVPLUS7TWO7MATE9GEM10BOLD10PEACHSBSVICELAND FRIDAYSATURDAYSUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAYWEDNESDAYTHURSDAY

ACROss

1 Burst of emotion (6)

8 Perpetrate; consign (6)

11 Country with capital Cape Town (5,6)

12 Floating structures (5)

13 Free from dirt (5)

15 Involve in a conflict (7)

17 Excluded (10)

19 Having utopian views (10)

21 Devon (5)

22 English pastry, – pudding (9)

23 Long outdoor walkway (9)

29 Female relative (4)

31 Slip away (6)

32 High temperatures for over a week (4,4)

33 Carefree (4)

37 Legacy (8)

38 Art venue (7)

39 Type of strong black coffee (8)

40 Sign in grammar (10)

41 Person who performs duties of an office or position (10)

44 One who hangs idly about (8)

46 Take delight (7)

47 Solution used to remove make-up and dirt, – water (8)

50 Prefix meaning onebillionth (4)

52 Most rapid (8)

53 City in Texas (6)

54 Polynesian demigod (4)

55 A fun and happy time (9)

58 Body of water bordered by Sweden and Finland (6,3)

60 The Scales (5)

61 Path for droving cattle (5,5)

63 Hard rock music (5,5)

64 Deep purplish-red (7)

65 Fundamental (5)

66 At no time (5)

67 Went beyond what is allowed (11)

68 Verse (6)

69 Lost or unclaimed animals (6)

2 Gossip (7)

3 Translate, clarify (9)

4 Exercised ultimate authority over (5)

5 Common crumble ingredient (7)

6 Attempts (7)

7 Garlic mayo (5)

9 Ice cream drink (9)

10 Fancy (7)

14 Dim lamp left on in the evening (5,5)

16 Meringue desserts (8)

18 A continent (6)

20 Reject; forsake (6)

24 Begging (11)

25 Participants in a two-day, 10-event competition (11)

26 Carapace

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.