Special Delivery To Fiji

A group of local students have made a big difference in the lives of hundreds of young Fijian children who this week received specially created school packs containing books, pens and other educational resources they would not normally have access to.

Year 12 student and School Captain Hazel Farrell visited Fiji in person and hand-delivered the packages which had been compiled by her school friends at St Catherine’s Catholic College and partnering school, St Mary’s Catholic School in Bowen through the Catherine McAuley Society.

Hand-delivering the lovingly created school packs to hundreds of Fijian school children was a big moment for Whitsunday local, Hazel Farrell, who had been working with her school friends on a sustainability project that was set to provide a meaningful impact to the whole community.

Visiting the remote Fijian school during one of her regular trips having been visiting the region since she was a young child, Hazel had the honour of delivering these school packs on behalf of her fellow students who she had been working on the project with. Part of a Catherine McAuley Society initiative, the students had elected to compile the handy school packs as part of the sustainability project lead by Elenore Balldock and initiated by much-loved teacher Ms Shantae Ryle.

The intention of the packs was to provide young Fijian school children with resources their families would not usually be able to afford. This in-turn would ease the financial stresses of living within the communities and enable people to lead more sustainable lives. Without needing to follow such practices as over-fishing the reef just so they could afford ‘luxuries’ such as school books.

Over 140 primary school age children were the lucky recipients of the lovingly compiled school packs and Hazel said the response she received when handing them over made her heart melt.

“It was absolutely unreal!” she expressed.  

“They were so excited and couldn’t wait to see what was in the bags! They all wanted to hold my hand and we spent time reading some of the books with them, it was a truly magical experience and one I will remember my whole life.”

The project began back in Proserpine and Bowen with a team of dedicated students selling the little packs to school friends from $5 - $15. Each student was then encouraged to write a little note to go inside their pack to connect with a fellow Fijian school student who would then receive, not only the pack, but also a new pen pal. Hazel and her friends raised over $1000 for the project and purchased excess luggage to transport the precious parcels to Fiji.

Located in the Yasawa Island Group off the Western coast off Viti Levu in Fiji, The Naviti District School is on Naviti Island, and the children come from four surrounding island villages – Muaria, Kese, Marou and Malevu – often travelling up to one and a half hours to get to school each day. They have a very basic standard of living with frequent power outages and are often at the mercy to weather systems such as cyclones, flooding and drought. Families rely heavily on the reef which can often become over-fished, and they have to manage sewerage in the communities to prevent harmful run-off reaching the reef systems.

For the past 20 years, Airlie Beach based company Reef Safari Diving, has been

been working in the Yasawa area in association with two tourist resorts; Barefoot Kuata and Barefoot Manta. The businesses have a strong commitment to reef conservation and community welfare, always looking for opportunities to help and give back.

Rob MacFarlane is the Head Marine Biologist at Reef Safari and has resided in Fiji for the past seven years. During this time, he has been collaborating regularly with the local school, each week he offers free swimming lessons to the students, teaches them about coral planting and orchestrates beach clean-ups. These initiatives offer the school children practical skills and education about conserving their precious natural environment for generations to come.

Rob delivered the school packs with Hazel and said he was blown-away by the incredible efforts the Whitsunday students had gone to.

“What Hazel and the rest of the students have done is absolutely amazing!” he said.

“It was a huge effort, and it was incredibly exciting to see how well it was received. We look forward to this being part of a much bigger partnership and want to continue on this trajectory.”

Hazel is also eager to continue this connection and looks forward to bringing more supplies back to the communities again in September. She encourages anyone in the community to get involved by donating items or money to assist with the project. All donations will go directly to benefit the Fijian communities in the form of stationary, exercise books and ‘readers’. The Whitsunday students are also currently raising money for a microscope and slides.

If you would like to get involved please email Julia Farrell from Reef Safari on info@reefsafari.com

‍

Shell Wardrope’s Life After Losing Her Leg

When local mum, Shell Wardrope, took a stumble on her wet driveway in May this year she didn’t think the innocent fall would change the trajectory of her life forever. The rain had been pouring for some time and she raced outside to call her son in for dinner, tripping forward and landing straight on her knee. Within seconds she could see a large gash form and after examining the wound, her and her husband Ben decided to go to the local hospital where they received stitches for the injury and returned home later that evening.

Heading to sleep that night, the couple thought Shell had a simple injury that would heal gradually over time. This was until the early hours of the morning when she woke up with a throbbing pain in her leg. After inspecting her leg again they could see it was extremely swollen so they drove to the hospital to have it checked out.

This fast thinking could have saved her life.

Within minutes of arriving at the hospital, Shell’s health deteriorated quickly and before long she lost consciousness. Panicked and distraught, Ben was by her side when he was told that she had contracted a soil-borne bacterial infection and only had a 2% chance of survival.

Ben and Shell believe the soil-borne infection was caused by a common algae that can be found almost anywhere. Unfortunately for Shell, the gash on her knee allowed this usually harmless algae to enter her bloodstream. The algae then reacted with the white blood cells and created a flesh-eating bacteria which spread rapidly up her leg.

The medical team at Proserpine Hospital did everything they could to stop the spread of the infection which was progressing further up her leg by the minute. Shell was quickly transferred to Mackay Base Hospital where they determined they would need to remove her limb. This was done in sections, each time they hoped to stop the infection and save as much of her leg as possible.  

Eventually the infection did stop spreading, but by this stage Shell’s leg had been amputated from below the hip.

But she still was alive.

For the next four days, her prognosis remained at 2% and Ben prayed she would pull though, determined that she would continue the life they had created together.

Several days later, when he was at his most desperate Ben took to social media and shared their plight with the community, pleading with everyone to help bring her back.

“I put that text up to the community and it blew up!” he explained.

“Through everyone’s prayer over that night, she dramatically changed.”

Shell had been in a coma for 13 days and had no idea her right leg was no longer there when she woke.

During her time on life support she remembers being plagued by nightmares which included being plunged into a shark tank where her leg was bitten off. Waking up and seeing Ben and their son Ollie was all she could have dreamed of and, despite the adjustment, Shell said she is incredibly grateful.

“They tried to save as much of my leg as they could, but it kept getting higher,” explained Shell.

“They did an amazing job and what they did saved my life, for which I am eternally grateful.”

“It’s weird because I can’t counterbalance, I can’t just sit up and I often get phantom leg pain, that’s one of the hardest things which is strange because my leg is not even there,” she shared.

Ben said Shell is a “remarkable healer”.

“She’s on pretty much no pain medication whatsoever,” he explained.

“We’re pretty spiritual people and believe in holistic medicine and eating lots of natural foods which has been a big part of her healing, and she is feeling unbelievably well.”

Shell left hospital after just seven weeks. The same injury would take another patient an average of three months. This speedy recovery, however, has not worked in her favour. Her swift departure meant that adequate after-care has not yet been organised and they are waiting on NDIS to provide practical assistance. It’s a long road ahead for the family and they are having to consider what shape this new life will take.

At this stage Shell is navigating life on a wheelchair they are leasing but she is hoping to get a prosthetic leg one day, this however, costs over $100K.

The family has launched a GoFundMe page where the community can help towards aftercare necessities and support for the family while Ben is unable to work due to taking care of Shell.

In a few months’ time, they are looking forward to hosting a gathering where they want to meet with the community to say thank you for all the support. In the meantime, they wish to thank everyone who has supported them so far, every gesture has meant so much to them.

‍

The 2024 program for the Cruise Whitsundays Great Barrier Reef Festival has been launched and people across the region are getting excited about the Above and Below theme that is set to highlight our beautiful region once again.

Earlier this year, Cruise Whitsundays again confirmed their naming rights sponsorship for the event once again, their involvement bringing some exciting environmentally focused boat tours which will become one of the feature events during the festival.

Renowned for being one of the most family-friendly community events of the year, the award-winning Great Barrier Reef Festival has been a cornerstone of the annual events calendar for almost 25 years.

Highlights include the Coral Sea Marina Lantern Parade which sees the boardwalk come alive with beautifully decorated lanterns and the Airlie Beach Rotary Club Street Parade where businesses and community groups decorate their own floats.

There is also the Recyclable Regatta, Magic Mile, Family Fun Day and a crowd favourite – the Sebel Whitsundays Fireworks on the Foreshore where thousands of people gather on the beach to watch the night sky fill with colour.

As the evenings unfold, the main stage heats up with live music and DJs, with Conrad Sewell headlining Friday night and festival favourites Matty Rogers Band and Perry Street Park on Saturday.

The beach-side pop-up bar is always buzzing, and families can enjoy the Side Show Alley and Carnival Rides throughout the evenings.

This year, the environmental theme runs throughout, both within events that incorporate recycled materials, but also through different educational opportunities that inspire and inform.

As part of the initiative, attendees have the opportunity to enjoy a Reef Experience with Cruise Whitsunday’s Master Reef Guides, an immersive day on the Great Barrier Reef learning from the undisputed masters of the Reef.

The Immerse Art Installation will be a focal point of the festival heart, with stunning hand-crafted reef inspired artworks illuminating Fairy Tree Park. In addition, the Above and Below Art Exhibition hosted by the Whitsunday Sailing Club will be on show throughout the festival.

This year there will be some new additions to the festival line-up, these include a special ‘Taste of Treason’ event at the Whitsunday Sailing Club Point and the Whitsunday Life Newspaper Window Dressing Competition where main street business stand to win $1000 worth of advertising for the best dressed shop front.

There is so much going on at the Great Barrier Reef Festival again this year – what are you getting involved with?

A Taste of Treason

Experience the Friday night fireworks in style at the festival’s new ‘Taste of Treason’ event at The Point, Whitsunday Sailing Club.

Brought to you by Whitsundays own ‘Act of Treason’ Agave spirit, tickets to this exclusive soiree include an Australian Margarita on arrival and sensory canapes to perfectly pair by Whisper Restaurant and Gin Bar.

Your taste buds won’t be the only ones dancing as you are mesmerised by fire twirlers and watch the sky come alive over the Coral Sea to the sounds of DJ Bad Girl. Tickets are $85 and available on the festival website.

Saturday Beats on the Beach

Airlie Foreshore will be the place to be Saturday night for Airlie Events Beats on the Beach with live music, pop-up bar and Eat Street happening from 6pm.

The lineup of original music talent will feature the ever-popular Matty Rogers who will be bringing a dynamic musical experience of Americana blues-rock drenched in soul, and his full band to the main stage.

Headlining will be SEQ’s pop rockers Perry Street Park, Airlie Beach Festival of Music’s 2022 Passport to Airlie winners, fresh from playing Bluesfest 2024. They will be supported by local newbys The Diesel Gypsies and blues rocker Zed Charles.

Immerse Yourself In The Reef

‘Immerse – Stories from the Heart of the Great Barrier Reef’ will commence with a special Traditional Owner song and dance and screening of Ngaro Dreaming at the markets site Friday night.

Experience the Immerse installation Friday through Sunday, where local artists have skilfully crafted a breathtaking display of sculptured reef creatures and corals using recycled plastic and marine debris.

This year the installation will include infographic signage highlighting and educating about the special reef creatures within the installation.

Animations appear as the installation is illuminated nightly, transforming the foreshore into a magical underwater wonderland.

Rotary Street Parade

Are you ready to see the main street of Airlie transform into a sea of colour and life with vibrant music, entertainment and imaginative floats?

If the answer is yes, head on down to the Rotary Street Parade on Saturday 3rd August, where you can celebrate the creativity of the region’s best businesses, schools, community groups and dancers at the much-loved event.

If you want to get involved and showcase your community group, business or school to the town, with the potential to win some excellent prizes, make sure to enter the competition.

Whitsunday Escape Recyclable Regatta

Get your sails ready for a wave of fun at the Whitsunday Escape Recyclable Regatta which will take place on Sunday 4th August. Every year participants are tasked with creating eco-friendly rafts made from recycled materials such as bottles, plastic pipes and other materials that would otherwise be dumped. The Recyclable Regatta is one of the feature attractions of the festival each year, bringing creativity and ingenuity to the fore. Wow the crowd with your team’s eco-conscious creation and compete for fantastic prizes (and bragging rights). Don’t miss out, be part of the fun and make a splash!

Saturday Main Street Events

Hot rods, Muscle cars, classic cars – revheads of all ages will be delighted as car enthusiasts from across the region display their prized possessions at the Enzed Revvin the Reef Car Show held on the main street of Airlie Beach on the Saturday morning. Also on the main street, the Wilmar Sugar Wearable Art Parade. Plus, stick around for the Coral Coast Fire Magic Mile, an opportunity for those young and old to enjoy the thrill of a community running race. Adults can participate in the one-mile race while children are encouraged to join in on the 400 metre run.

‍

For Airlie Beach Festival Of Music

The Airlie Beach Festival of Music (ABFoM) is back for its 12th year and has released its line-up, which is set to be epic. Artists Rose Tattoo, Southern Sons, Reece Mastin and Sandi Thom are joining the already impressive lineup which includes Sweet (UK), Pseudo Echo, Jebediah, Thirsty Merc, Christine Anu, Ash Grunwald, 19 Twenty, Bondi Cigars and more. Proudly presented by the Whitsunday Sailing Club, ABFoM is your chance to come and party in the paradise that is Airlie Beach.

All the way from the UK, Glam Rock legends Sweet will be bringing classic tunes like "Fox On The Run" & "Ballroom Blitz" to the north QLD Tropics for the very first time.

Rock legends, Rose Tattoo, will bring their signature bluesy sound to the main stage. Fronted by the iconic Angry Anderson, the band promises a high-energy performance. Buckle up for a journey through their 47-year career filled with tales of bars, love, and everything in between.

Southern Sons will take you on a trip down memory lane with their original members reuniting to deliver their chart-topping classics such as “Hold Me in Your Arms” and “Heart in Danger”.

Remember the classic “I Wish I Was a Punk Rocker (with Flowers in my Hair)”? Creative artist and pioneer of online music Sandi Thom returns to Airlie Beach with fresh and old and infectious tunes.

ABFoM has become an Airlie Beach tradition, with this year marking the 12th anniversary, promising to be the biggest one yet. From November 8th to 10th, get ready for a thrilling 3-day extravaganza that will transform Airlie Beach into a music lover's paradise.

A 3-day ticket will cost you $320 and grants you access to headliners, over 50 acts across various venues and the afterparty on Monday 11th. Free festival shuttles are included in the ticket price. VIP options are also available.

Prepare yourself for an unforgettable weekend of music, sun and fun at the Airlie Beach Festival of Music.

What: Airlie Beach Festival of Music.

Where: Whitsunday Sailing Club, Airlie Beach.

When: November 8th to 10th 2024.

‍

Americana blues-rock favourite Matty Rogers, is set to return to Airlie, for the Airlie Beach Festival of Music and Great Barrier Reef Festival with his band this year.

While Matty hasn't performed at the Great Barrier Reef Festival yet, this will mark his fifth appearance at the Airlie Beach Festival of Music, an event he thoroughly enjoys due to his love for the festival crew, crowd and picturesque surroundings.

Matty grew up around musicians, with his father himself being a musician. Matty’s dad is his biggest inspiration. Despite never pushing music on him and letting the singer songwriter find his own groove in writing music, one day Matty woke up and realised he wanted to learn music too, started writing his own songs, and has been playing ever since.

Matty's band is scheduled to perform an all-original set at the festivals, featuring compositions solely written by him. As a four-piece ensemble, they specialise in music that deeply resonates with their audience, invoking emotions across diverse age groups. Storytelling is central to Matty's musical ethos, spanning from poignant ballads that stir tears to infectious beats that ignite the dance floor.

While Matty doesn’t particularly take inspiration from any musician or music, a lot of his musical inspiration is drawn from his life experiences, witnessing humanity and the people around him more so than the music he listens to.

Matty Rogers emphasises that he is super “pumped,” to be bringing the band up with him to Airlie again this year, and says he loves coming and playing in Airlie and feels so honoured to return year after year and playing for the amazing people and be so embraced by the community.

Matty is also looking forward to his upcoming tour that will be announced soon and the Passport to Airlie competition which he is hosting and encourages all musicians to jump aboard the competition.

What is your favourite song ever?

If I had to pick one song (which is near impossible) it would have to be Stairway to Heaven by Led Zeppelin.

What is your favourite song to play?

Walk to the Water.

What was the last thing you listened to?

Chris Stapleton, Scarecrow in the Garden.

‍

Rhythm & The Reef

Mackay, it’s time to get rowdy for a jam-packed return of Rhythm & The Reef, set to be held at the picturesque Meadowlands Amphitheatre, Botanic Gardens on Saturday, this October the 5th.

Against the backdrop of this breathtaking location, the festival promises to deliver a jaw-dropping line-up and an experience that will leave a lasting impression on both local and interstate punters alike.

Proudly presented by FMS Group and Hit 100.3, Rhythm & The Reef, now in its fourth year, is poised to ignite the essence of music, community and the spirit of freedom once again.

To elevate the experience, the day and night event boasts a crowd-pleasing line-up headlined by Bliss N Eso, one of Australia's most influential hip-hop groups. With a career spanning over a decade, their energetic performances and chart-topping hits like "Addicted" and "Moments" have solidified their place in the Australian music scene.

Joining them are Skegss, the beloved garage rock trio known for their infectious energy and raw sound. Their hits such as "Up in the Clouds" and "Spring Has Sprung" have made them a favourite among festival-goers.

Additionally, Thelma Plum, the ARIA-nominated singer-songwriter, will captivate the audience with her soulful voice and poignant lyrics, delivering unforgettable tracks like "Better in Blak" and "Clumsy Love."

Adding to the star-studded line-up, Sneaky Sound System, the iconic electronic music duo, will bring their dance-worthy anthems like "UFO" and "Pictures" to the stage. Finally, Allday, the genre-blending rapper and singer, will deliver his unique sound with hits like "You Always Know the DJ" and "In Motion," ensuring an electrifying performance.

In addition to these headliners, the festival will feature a balanced round-up of local and emerging artists including Giant Palms, Jonte, Pacey, The Wild Sky, Same Pains, Dosco, Jaymouth, and more. These talented acts will showcase the rich and diverse musical landscape of the region, providing festival-goers with a unique opportunity to discover and support local talent.

‍

Celebrating 36 years, Airlie Beach Race Week will be setting sail once again this August with 150 yachts and over 3000 skippers, crew, and spectators expected to attend the 2024 event. A lively on-water regatta with nightly shore side entertainment, Race Week is as much fun for sailors jostling for places in each race as it is for guests at the Whitsunday Sailing Club lawn.

Live music will create a party atmosphere every night and a host of food vans will provide a grazing, social dinner venue for all to enjoy. While Airlie Beach Race Week is dedicated to avid sailors, it is also an event for the whole community to enjoy and everyone is welcome to come on down and enjoy the lively atmosphere and vibrant camaraderie of event.

LIVE MUSIC EVERY NIGHT

Live music will be played every evening on the Whitsunday Sailing Club lawn. An eclectic mix of local musicians will serenade sun-kissed sailors and locals alike, creating the ambience the festival is renowned for – that of festivity, fun and freedom.   When: Every night
Where: Whitsunday Sailing Club
Tickets: Free event for the whole community

Food Stall Fiesta

The expansive Festival Village front lawn of the Sailing Club will transform into a vibrant foodie’s paradise with a variety of food and drink vans including Mount Gay Rum Bar. Festoon lighting and festive bunting will adorn the activities and live music will create a groovy vibe while everyone enjoys a night under the stars with the lights of the boats dotting the horizon. For those preferring a sit-down dining experience, head to the Whitsunday Sailing Club and dine inside or head to their ocean view deck. A full menu will be available throughout the festivities.
When: Every night
Where: Whitsunday Sailing Club Lawn
Time: From 2pm
Tickets: Free event for the whole community

SEE WHALES AND SAILING FROM THE OCEAN DYNAMICS BOAT

While much of the on-water activity can be viewed from land, if you wish to get up close to the action, head out on one of the spectator boats with Ocean Dynamics for a day of adventure. Staying close to the pack, you will be able to watch the boats jostle for position and enjoy the thrill of the race from the comforts of a secure and hosted tour. Each tour takes roughly 3-4 hours, and you may also see whales swim majestically by.

THE LONG TABLE LUNCH – LAY-DAY

Festival attendees and members of the community are invited to the extravagant long table lunch which will be held on the shaded first-floor outdoor balcony of the Sailing Club on Monday afternoon. Live Music and Festival Village kicks off early on Lay Day, from 12pm for those not attending the Long Lunch. Head down for food stalls and live entertainment. In addition to the extravagant 3 course lunch, Ocean Dynamics is offering the opportunity to cruise to Whitehaven Beach on Ocean Enigma, a 28m motor yacht. Departing Airlie Beach at 10:30am and returning at 4:30pm - you will have around 3 hours at the beach. $199pp including burgers and a welcome cocktail. Limited seats so book early to avoid missing out!
Booking details: vip@oceand.au 0499 862 021 or 0499 862 002
When: Monday 12th August
Time: 12pm onwards

Closing Ceremony Firework Display

The fina night presentations and closing ceremony is marked by a fantastic firework display which can be best viewed from the Whitsunday Sailing Club lawn or upstairs on the balcony. The whole community are invited to come down and enjoy the display which is free for all to enjoy.
When: Thursday 15th August
Time: 8pm
Tickets: Free for the community

FAST FACTS

• Up to 3000 participants will compete on 150 vessels

• Racers come from as far afield as Tasmania, Western Australia, New Zealand and New Caledonia

• There are 50 different courses and 14 divisions

• Boats travel 25 miles a day on average

• Races kick-off at approx. 10am and finish late afternoon

‍

It was a typical Wednesday evening in May of 1964 and a group of locals, primarily cane farmers, were gathered at the Metropole Hotel in Proserpine, enjoying some cold drinks.

Among the group gathered were Aldo Cantamessa, Terry Hinschen, Gordon Barr, Fred Baxter, Fred Tetley and Kevin Tetley. Amidst the friendly banter, there was talk about the growing issue of potential accidents at sea and the increasing risks of losing friends and visitors while fishing or exploring the Whitsunday waters. Recognising the need for a more organised response to maritime emergencies, they took it upon themselves to address this concern.

Little did they realise, the events of that evening back in 1964 marked an historic moment in the narrative of marine rescue in the Whitsundays. They were the founding members of what we now know as Volunteer Marine Rescue (VMR) Whitsunday.

This forward-thinking group laid the foundation for a new era of marine safety for boaties. They devised a communication process and a roster, each man pledging his own vessel to stand ready for any call of distress. Initially, the group used three main boats privately owned by Gordon Barr, Aldo Cantamessa and Fred Baxter. Other boats used in the early days were those of Jack Hickmott, John Watts, Fred Tetley, Brian McDermott, Terry Hinschen and Wally Rogan. On one search, up to 24 private boats were involved!

The Squad could not charge for their services and relied on donations from assisted boaties – and this was more often than not a “thank you” in kind. After rescuing a family of three who had chartered a sailing boat owned by a baker from Mackay, members were surprised when, a few weeks later, they received thanks from the owner in the form of a huge carton. It was full of bread!

Proserpine Sea Rescue became an official entity in January 1967 after a steering committee was formed to draw up a constitution and rules, thus formalising what first began three years earlier. By July, the name had been changed to Whitsunday Air Sea Rescue (WASR). The year 1994 marked another milestone in the history of marine rescue when the new Whitsunday Marine Club officially opened thanks to a collaborative approach from WASR, the Game Fish Club and the Power Boat Club. In 1995, Coast Guard (QF18) which had formed back in 1977 and Whitsunday Air Sea Rescue (VMR442) merged to officially become known as VMR Whitsunday.

Thanks to the unwavering commitment of volunteers, the next three decades bore witness to many remarkable developments. VMR Whitsunday now bears little resemblance to the fledgling organisation initiated by a small group of local men in a Proserpine hotel sixty years ago.

From little things, big things grow …

The transformation from its humble beginnings in 1964 to what we now know as VMR Whitsunday has been nothing short of remarkable.

VMR Whitsunday has evolved from an informal body of six dedicated volunteers to an organisation with an active crew of over 80 members.  

In the formative years, marine radios were a luxury and mobile phones were a distant dream. Communications relied on landline phones, word of mouth and a basic blackboard system. Not so today! VMR Whitsunday is now equipped with mobile phones, advanced radios, AIS and other modern technology, to provide 24/7/365 emergency marine support.

Initially, operations had no centralised facilities, relying on the homes of dedicated volunteers, with meetings taking place at venues in Proserpine such as the Metropole Hotel, the RSL Club and the CWA Hall. It was over twenty years before the organisation acquired an official base – a demountable purchased for $80! Fast forward to 2024 and VMR Whitsunday boasts an impressive dedicated facility featuring a state-of-the-art training/meeting room.

The legacy born on that seemingly ordinary night at the Metropole Hotel when a small group of locals met to share some camaraderie and a few drinks has become a highly professional organisation that continues to save lives at sea, not just locally but statewide.

Story courtesy of VMR Whitsundays. Photos from R Jean Photography, VMR Whitsundays and the Proserpine Museum.

‍

Some of the dedicated volunteers from VMR Whitsundays. Photo credit: R Jean Photography

The founding members

Then and now, vessels have changed over the years

‍

Whitpro joins forces with Prickly Pineapple

Giving food waste new life

‍

Important to know

The food scraps you put in your bin go to landfill. These scraps are trapped in an anaerobic environment which means no oxygen. Without oxygen, insects and microorganisms needed to break down your scraps cannot survive. Food that breaks down in this government produces methane. That’s a nasty  “green house gas” that produces 20 times more heat than carbon dioxide, that leaks from the tip out into the atmosphere.

DO YOUR BIT

If you don’t have time or space to compost, collect your scraps and place them in the bins at Whitpro’s entrance gate. For your efforts, pick a packet of seeds for free. Honesty system: small actions x many people = big results. It takes a community to raise a healthy environment.

Hydration is the key to life

Thirsty person – Around 60% of or human bodies are made up of water. You’ll be lucky to survive 5 days without it. If you want to live longer drink 1-2 litres of water a day!

Thirsty Land – 1/3 of our planet is covered by water. But not clean fresh water. More than 1 billion people live without enough water.

Thirsty plant – If a plant holds enough water, it’s cells are swollen and the plant stands upright. If they lack water the cells deflate and the plant wilts. It needs more water.

Whitpro hydrating our community

Both plants and people

Whether you are a DIY enthusiast and you are installing your own irrigation system, or you would like Whitpro to do the job, Whitpro’s new irrigation shed holds everything you could possibly need.

Water truck – water deliveries 7 days a week fast, reliable and an added bonus – a free plant!

DOING OUR BIT

Whitpro is bringing a plant to every water delivery – PLEASE WATER.

Plants improve the environment, they release oxygen, they take in carbon dioxide and help sustain life on earth. So then order water and then make a difference with Whitpro.

INSPIRATION THROUGH Beautification

If you need a pathway from one section of your garden to the next, or simply to your letter box, bins or clothes line. Check out our selection of unique stoppers, pavers and edging stones.

Whitpro has new stock arrivals to transform your garden space

Improve your overall garden  design with an addition of pots. Even a small verandah can be transformed with a few pots filled with interesting plant foliage whether it be color, texture or size of leaves!

‍

‍

‍

‍

Hey, beauty queens!

Ever dreamt of nailing that royal look without spending a fortune? Well, you're in luck! The regal ladies of the royal family have mastered the art of looking effortlessly chic, and guess what? You can too! With a few clever tricks and some royal insight from the beauty pros at Fresha, you’ll be strutting around like royalty in no time.

Go Neutral for Naturally Gorgeous Eyes

Meghan Markle and Kate Middleton have wowed us with their stunning yet subtle eye makeup. Their secret? Neutral tones! Searches for ‘neutral eyeshadow’ have skyrocketed by 123% recently. It’s all about those soft browns and rosy pinks. A gentle smoky eye, blended into the crease, gives a bold yet understated look. Take a page from Princess Diana’s book—she was known for her soft eye makeup paired with a simple liner. Her hack? Blending eyeliner with a cotton bud for a soft finish. Cheap, easy, and oh-so-effective!

Blush Up for a Youthful Glow

Princess Diana was the queen of the rosy cheek. She swore by cream blush to add a fresh, youthful glow. Despite her rosacea, she managed to keep her skin looking fabulous with rose oils and avocado masks. Nowadays, Meghan Markle rocks the rosy cheek look with a classic powder blush. It’s all about looking fresh and natural. Fun fact: searches for ‘rosy cheeks’ have shot up by 180% earlier this year. Time to get blushing, ladies!

Nail It with Nude Polishes

Bright nail polish is a no-go for the royals. The secret to their elegant hands? Nude nail polish. Queen Elizabeth has been a fan of this classic look since the ’80s, and the trend is still going strong. It’s versatile, sophisticated, and matches any outfit. No wonder searches for ‘nude nail polish’ have increased by 28% recently. Keep it classy and timeless with nude nails.

Skincare Secrets for a Royal Glow

Good skincare is the foundation of any great beauty routine. Kate Middleton swears by rosehip oil to keep her skin youthful and prevent dark circles. She got this tip from her mum, Carole, who also uses it. Meanwhile, Meghan Markle is a fan of glycolic acid for that glowing, supple skin. Not suitable for you? No worries! Face oils are packed with nutrients that keep your skin healthy and radiant. With a 26% increase in searches for ‘rosehip oil’ recently, it’s clear that people are catching on to these royal secrets.

Luscious Lashes

Meghan Markle’s secret weapon? A lash curler. She never skips this step, and it makes her eyes look lively and bright without needing heavy mascara. Diana had a trick too—she applied mascara right at the roots to make her lashes look longer and her blue eyes even more striking. Simple, but effective!

Beauty from the Inside Out

Your diet plays a huge role in how your skin looks. The royals know this well. Princess Diana avoided sugar, gluten, and dairy, sticking to boiled potatoes and chicken for flawless skin. Meghan Markle loves almonds for their Vitamin E and Zinc, keeping her skin clear and nourished. Kate Middleton’s diet is rich in lean proteins, fruits, and veggies, and she’s a fan of raw foods like sushi.

So there you have it, folks! Achieving that royal look is easier (and cheaper) than you thought. With these tips, you'll be feeling like a duchess in no time. Now, go out there and shine!

‍

The JoyMaker Experience

Step into a realm where joy is the guiding light, where connections flourish, and empowerment thrives. With the JoyMaker Experience just around the corner, get ready for a transformative journey towards renewed joy, connection, cohesion, and empowerment.

Meet Christine Denny, affectionately known as The Joy Maker. For her, spreading happiness, support, collaboration, and pride in workplaces and communities is not just a passion but a calling. Recognising the pervasive sense of burnout and stress in today's corporate sector, Christine is determined to inject workplaces with a fresh dose of positivity and connection.

"I've seen too many workplaces struggling with burnout and disconnection," Christine explains.

"I believe that culture and connection are key to unlocking the full potential of any team."

As a former resident of Mackay, Christine holds a special connection to the area and is thrilled to bring The Joy Maker Experience back to her hometown. Having made a name for herself as a tap dance specialist and the creator of the national Tap Dance Curriculum, Tapatak Oz, Christine is no stranger to choreographing a captivating show. However, with a growing concern for the rising rates of depression, anxiety, burnout, and overwhelm across Australia, Christine has shifted her focus to her latest passion project, The Joy Maker Experience. Returning to Mackay with this transformative initiative, Christine is determined to spread happiness, support, and empowerment throughout her community and beyond.

Through the JoyMaker Experience, Christine offers a unique blend of creativity and empowerment, providing teams with the rest, realignment, and rejuvenation they need to thrive.

"Your staff need a little rest, realignment, and rejuvenation to optimise their creativity," she emphasises.

"And connectivity, imagination, and creativity are paramount for your employees and managers to get the lift they need to refill their tanks and perform."

Drawing from her thirty-five years of experience mentoring teachers and students in the arts, Christine brings her expertise to a broader audience, spreading the positive power of joy-making far and wide, with these intimate one-day retreats, open to all!

Recent testimonials attest to the effectiveness of Christine's approach. Peter Ferreira, a professional facilitator, praises Christine's energy, enthusiasm, and ability to connect with her audience.

"All I can say is that Christine and her Joy Maker Experience exceeded all my expectations," he said. "Her energy, enthusiasm, creativity, and ability to connect with the audience was outstanding."

Participants at the Cecchetti Ballet Conference share their experiences of emotional release and pride in their work after engaging with the JoyMaker Experience.

"An interesting roller-coaster of emotions," reflects Rebecca. "I didn't realise I was holding onto so much."

Shona also expressed gratitude for the opportunity to reflect and feel proud of her achievements. "The Joy Maker Experience was so refreshing. It gave me time to reflect and feel proud of what I do."

In this empowering one-day seminar, attendees will embark on a life-changing journey, guided by experiential activities designed to unlock their full potential and foster personal growth. From uncovering their unique set of values and guiding principles to learning how to align their lives with these core beliefs, participants will gain invaluable insights into living a purpose-driven life.

If you can’t make it to the Mackay presentation, Christine can bring the JoyMaker Experience to your organisation, aiming to make a tangible difference in cohesion, creativity, culture, and overall joy.

"As The Joy Maker, I'm dedicated to spreading happiness and empowerment wherever I go," Christine affirms.

"Let's make joy our reality!"

EVENT DETAILS

The JoyMaker Experience

When: Sunday July 14

Where: The Ocean International

Tickets: https://www.stickytickets.com.au/v21ga/the_joy_maker_experience_mackay_june_23rd_2024.aspx

‍

Christinedenny.com.au

For information email: info@christinedenny.com

‍

From Stephanie Marie Hair Boutique

Star Sign: Cancer

Fav Movie: Drop Dead Fred

Fav Colour: White

Fav Holiday Destination: Greece

Fav Music: Country

Fav Quote: “What will be, will be”

Tell Us Something Most People Don't Know About You: I’m a mum of three

A country girl at heart, Stephanie Marie was born in Dysart and grew-up in mining towns before moving to Mackay 20 years ago.

During her extensive career, Stephanie worked in several high-end salons in the Sunshine Coast, where she developed a passion for quality workmanship and service.

This experience led Stephanie to start her own salon in Mackay, uniting the skills and natural talent she’s harnessed over the years. The business’ goal is for every client to experience indulgent services in a luxury environment.

Dedicated to pampering hard-working mums and busy women that need a break, Stephanie has created a blissful sanctuary, a place to escape and regenerate. She understands that a woman’s biggest challenge can be finding balance in life, often experiencing it herself as she juggles being creative director, mum, wife, and female business owner.

Through her hair salon, Stephanie endeavours to support other women, giving them a calm and invigorating space where they can connect with themselves again.

Stephanie is a master in colouring and has specialised in lived-in colours and colour transformations, intuitively understanding the tone, tint and style that her clients are seeking.

As busy at home as she is at work, Stephanie often finds herself being a taxi for her three children on the weekend. Where possible she also loves taking the opportunity to get away on trips with her family. Her husband is English, and they regularly take family trips to England to see his family. When not with her family she loves having nights out with her girls.

‍

Registered Counsellor/Yoga & Meditation Teacher

Star Sign Gemini

Fav Movie - “The Intouchables” (French Version)

Fav Colour - Green

Fav Holiday destination - Northern Thailand

Fav Music - Depends on the day! Indie Rock, EDM, Hip-hop, Lo-fi, Acoustic

Fav Quote - ‘Trying to define yourself is like trying to bite your own teeth’ Alan Watts
‍

Meaghan Collins has been a Yoga and Meditation teacher for over 20 years now and over the last few years she has furthered her skillset. Completing a Diploma in counselling and end of life doula training.

“I love being able to support people on that journey,” Meaghan said.

“Whether in the yoga classroom or sitting with someone who is grieving, it’s all about creating and holding space for people to feel safe and seen, and giving permission for whatever is going on for them at that moment.”

Meaghan loves being able to support people using more than one modality. She says, “Not everyone needs the same kind of support, and there are many ways we can process the challenges life throws our way.”

She is proactive about maintaining her own mental health on the weekends. Meaghan said, “I love to get out in nature, hiking, waterfalls and beaches will have my heart always.” She also loves staying in on the weekends, cooking for her friends, studying, gardening, reading or doing some home yoga just for herself. But most importantly Meaghan loves spending time with her 10-year-old daughter.

“My daughter is the best thing to ever happen to me,” she says. “And alongside doing work that I love, which feels helpful and purposeful, I can confidently say I am living a life that feels meaningful to me. To me, that is the key to success.”

Meaghan has called Airlie home for 18 years, she’s no stranger to the region and she can’t wait to meet you.

‍

From Fusion Dance Arts

Star Sign: Gemini

Fav Movie: Shawshank Redemption

Fav Colour: Purple / Blue

Fav Holiday destination: The beach

Fav Music: Country… but I’m a die hard P!nk fan too

Fav Quote: ‘When life hands you lemons, make lemonade.’

Tell Us Something most people don't know about you?

I have Epilepsy – but I have been well controlled for over 20 years and love helping raise funds and awareness for others that live with this.
‍

With a strong passion for teaching and fitness, there is no greater calling for Jocelyn than instructing a dance class after a long day of teaching at school.

Born and bred in Mackay, Jocelyn now resides in Marian where she has lived since 2010, after moving around Queensland for University and various teaching positions.

Jocelyn has loved dancing since she was two years old. When she was 16 she started assisting dance classes and found that mentoring others was her true passion, completing her first dance teacher exams at just 17.

At University, Jocelyn studied high school teaching. After her studies, moved to

Charter Towers for first teaching job, but she also taught dance while there.

During this time, her strong passion for teaching dance continued to grow, and in 2012 Jocelyn opened Fusion Dance & Fitness where she specialises in a broad range of techniques including Tap, Jazz, Ballet, Hip-Hop, Contemporary and Acro. She also holds a Certificate 3 & 4 in Fitness and Nutrition.

Despite all these great achievements and landmark moments in a successful career, Jocelyn says the birth of her two children remain the best thing to happen to her. In her spare time, when she isn’t teaching at school or teaching dance, she loves to sing and draw. She also loves to go camping, crabbing or fishing with her family.

‍

Shines Light On Traditional Language

Country soul queen and revered Indigenous singer songwriter Emma Donovan has released her highly anticipated new album ‘Til My Song is Done’ and is celebrating with a national Australian tour.

‘Til My Song is Done’ is seen as a return home for Emma, getting back to the sounds of country and her creative and performing roots, conveying a musical journey from singing those big country numbers as a kid, to joining her family performing church songs at community funerals, to the kitbag of skills picked up her over later collaborations in funk, soul, and R&B.

Our Journalist Chelsea Ravizza got the opportunity to ask Emma a few questions about the new album and her upcoming tour.

What does having your new music recorded in Gumbaynggirr and Noongar languages mean to you as both an artist and an Indigenous woman yourself?

My newest solo album features a song sung in Gumbaynggirr. I translated ‘In The Sweet By & By’ with the help of members of my Nambucca community. I try to translate a lot of tunes this way in language, it helps me learn it more myself.

I never grew up speaking the language, neither did my mother and her parents. It was my great grandparents that were fluent. It’s very empowering for my family to share our language and to share it with the wider Gumbaynggirr community as well. It’s my contribution to continue sharing language.

How did you begin your music career and find your passion for sharing traditional languages through your work?

I grew up in a very musical family thanks to my grandparents, my Mum and my uncles who all played music. I’m very lucky and grateful for my family who raised us knowing music is a key to our life.

I began listening to artists like Angélique Kidjo and Salif Keita when I was very young. I enjoyed listening to songs in languages that I didn’t understand.

Later on, I listened to First Nations singer songwriters such as Frank Yamma and Christine Anu. Yothu Yindi was also a huge inspiration for me to include language in my music. All these artists opened the doors for sharing Indigenous languages in music.

What do you hope for your audiences to take away from your upcoming shows?

Just joy, and for audiences to have a connection to my stories. I believe my songs have meaning and messages for all.

What are your future plans for your musical career and your passion for sharing traditional languages?

Sharing more, especially engaging in children’s songs & language. I didn’t have language growing up so I ensured that my own kids have the opportunity to hear and connect to my songs and story lines that share places and specific country that they have a connection to.

‘Til My Song is Done’ is available to stream now.

Visit emmadonovan.com for more information on Emma’s upcoming shows.

‍