Get to Know

One Step Forward, Every Day

One Step Forward, Every Day

At 48, Michelle Leeson knows life rarely follows the path we expect – and sometimes its greatest challenges can lead us somewhere entirely new. Having lived locally since she was 16, Michelle’s life today centres around her four children, a love of learning and an outlook shaped by an extraordinary period of change.

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Imperfect. Kind. Strong.

Imperfect. Kind. Strong.

At 54, Deidre Schill is embracing a chapter shaped by wisdom, self-acceptance and a deeper appreciation for a life intertwined with both extraordinary joy and profound heartache. ‍A writer, mother, partner, sister and friend, Deidre’s story has taken her from Mansfield in Victoria to Mackay and Ilbilbie in Queensland – but home, she says, has always been more than a place.

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71 Years In The Making

71 Years In The Making

At 71, Heather Kummerfeld has arrived at a place many spend decades striving toward: genuinely accepting and celebrating the woman she has become. Born and raised in Mackay, Heather’s roots have remained firmly planted in her hometown despite adventures across Australia and around the world. ‍Her greatest joy lies close to home, surrounded by family and friends, supporting those she loves and finding purpose in small acts of kindness.

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The Art Of Her

The Art Of Her

Originally from Dysart, Alyce Holzy has called Mackay home since 2008, and while she has always had a camera in her hands from a young age, it wasn’t until 2011 that she began exploring photography as a hobby before leaving her corporate career in 2020 to turn her passion into a full-time business, known as Alyce Holzy Photography. And in 2024 opening a studio for Boudoir By Alyce.

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Experience Meets A Fresh Approach

September 14, 2026

With Craig Allom

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After two decades in real estate, Craig Allom knows experience matters – but so does knowing when to think outside the square.

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As a Sales and Marketing Consultant at Munro and Co in Townsville, Craig combines 20 years of industry knowledge with an individual approach to each property that comes across his desk.

Rather than relying on the same formula for every campaign, he develops strategies tailored to the property, market and goals of the client, backed by strong attention to detail and a determination to achieve the best possible result.

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It is an approach that has seen Craig become a trusted property advisor who genuinely enjoys both the challenges of real estate and helping clients reach their property goals.

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For Craig, however, success is not measured solely by the final sale price.

He places equal importance on the experience clients have along the way, providing honest advice, clear communication and consistent follow-through to ensure sellers remain informed and supported throughout their campaign.

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Behind him is the broader Munro and Co team, where collaboration forms an important part of the sales process.

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Current campaigns and buyer feedback are regularly discussed among the sales team, allowing ideas and strategies to be shared with the goal of strengthening outcomes for sellers. Craig can also draw on the expertise of the agency’s property management, administration and compliance professionals throughout the transaction.

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For clients, it means gaining not only Craig’s two decades of knowledge and personal commitment, but the collective support of an experienced team working towards the same goal.

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Building Relationships, Creating Opportunities

September 14, 2026

With Ian Maloney

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For Ian Maloney, successful business development starts well before an opportunity is put on the table – it begins with understanding the person sitting across from him.

As Business Development Manager at Munro and Co in Townsville, Ian brings experience spanning both the automotive and property industries, with a career that has sharpened his ability to understand what clients need and build relationships that last.

His background in car sales provided a strong foundation in negotiation, client management and communication, while teaching him the importance of listening closely to individual needs.

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A move into house and land sales added another dimension to his expertise, allowing Ian to work closely with property buyers and investors, identify suitable opportunities and confidently communicate investment strategies.

Today, he brings those skills together in his role at Munro and Co.

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Ian takes a client-first approach to business development, taking the time to understand each person’s goals, circumstances and investment objectives before exploring opportunities that align with them.

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Rather than focusing solely on the immediate transaction, his approach is centred on trust, transparency and developing genuine long-term relationships.

Backed by a strong commercial mindset, Ian understands that property and investment decisions can be significant ones, making clear communication and informed guidance an important part of the process.

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Ultimately, his goal is simple: to ensure clients have the information and support they need to make decisions with confidence. And ultimately, for Ian, good business is not simply about creating the next opportunity – it is about creating the right one for the person in front of him.

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Making Property Management Personal

September 14, 2026

With Emily

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Property management may revolve around homes, but for Senior Property Manager Emily, it is the people behind them who matter most.

Approachable, calm and committed to making the process easier for everyone involved, Emily understands that no two landlords, tenants or tenancies are quite the same.

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Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, she takes the time to build genuine relationships, communicate openly and ensure both landlords and tenants feel supported throughout their tenancy.

It is a philosophy underpinned by three simple things: communication, trust and doing what you say you are going to do.

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With a hands-on approach and keen attention to detail, Emily takes pride in keeping everything organised and ensuring the properties entrusted to her care are well looked after.

Of course, property management does not always go perfectly to plan. When challenges arise, Emily enjoys finding practical solutions and helping clients navigate the inevitable ups and downs that can come with managing a property.

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For landlords, she strives to provide honest advice and reliable service, while making what can sometimes seem like a complicated process feel considerably more manageable.

Her friendly nature complements a strong sense of responsibility, allowing her to bring both professionalism and a personal touch to her role.

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Away from property management, Emily's attention turns to the people closest to her.

She loves spending time with her family, particularly heading away on holidays and making new memories together – a chance to recharge before returning to the busy world of property management.

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The Steady Hand Behind Every Sale

September 14, 2026

With Mandy Resegati

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While buyers and sellers may not see Mandy Resegati standing at an open home, chances are she will become a familiar voice as their property journey progresses.

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With more than 23 years of real estate experience, Mandy has built an extensive understanding of the industry from almost every angle.

Her career has spanned reception, personal assistant and sales and marketing roles, through to Property Manager, Head of Property Management and Office Manager.

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Today, as Support and Office Co-Ordinator at Munro and Co in Townsville, Mandy plays an important behind-the-scenes role across sales administration, trust accounting and sales contract management.

From preparing and managing contracts to coordinating with solicitors and conveyancers, overseeing trust accounting and ensuring compliance requirements are met, Mandy helps keep each transaction moving smoothly from contract to settlement.

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It is work where the smallest details matter.

Known for her organisation and meticulous approach, Mandy works closely with agents, clients, solicitors, contractors and other industry professionals to ensure each stage is handled efficiently and accurately.

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Her decades of experience also mean she understands the property process well beyond the responsibilities of her current position, bringing knowledge from both the sales and property management sides of the industry.

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For buyers and sellers, that experience is paired with a friendly and transparent approach designed to make what can be a complex process feel considerably less daunting.

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Mandy may work largely behind the scenes, but her contribution is felt throughout every successful transaction – helping ensure clients remain informed and supported right through to settlement.

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Putting People At The Heart Of Property Management

September 14, 2026

With Elesha Dennis

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Behind every property is a person, and for Elesha Dennis, understanding that is at the heart of great property management.

As Head of Property Management at Munro and Co in Townsville, Elesha brings extensive industry experience to the role, alongside a genuine passion for creating positive experiences for property owners and tenants alike.

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Her approach is grounded in communication, transparency and trust, recognising that successful property management involves far more than simply looking after bricks and mortar. For Elesha, being proactive and building strong relationships are essential to ensuring clients feel supported throughout their property management journey.

That same people-first philosophy extends to the team she leads.

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Elesha is passionate about fostering a positive workplace culture where her team feels supported to perform at its best, while continually looking for opportunities to strengthen processes and maintain a consistently high standard of service across the department.

It is an approach shaped by her belief that the strongest results come when people know they are genuinely being looked after.

Whether working with a property owner, supporting a tenant or guiding her team, Elesha strives to bring care and professionalism to every interaction.

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While property management keeps her busy professionally, family is equally important outside the office.

Away from work, Elesha enjoys spending quality time with her family and making memories with her two girls.

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And when the opportunity presents itself, she is always happy to swap the demands of property management for a well-earned getaway and some time to recharge.

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Into The Rabbit Hole

September 14, 2026

Bright Patch Café Owner Jameela Walker has a habit of following kooky ideas to see where they lead.

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She calls herself an ‘accidental’ businesswoman – driven by a coffee order complicated enough to keep any barista on their toes, and a question: what could make life feel better here?

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In 2020 in Sydney, the question led her to found Empowering Kids Therapy where she created a space for children to build everyday life skills, emotional regulation and independence.

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As a child, Jameela’s own interests stretched in a few directions, from acting to dancing and playing the cello. It gave her an early understanding of children whose curiosity could never be contained to just one pursuit- something that informs her therapy practice.

Two years later, Jameela decided to bring her business to the Whitsundays.

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“Proserpine soon became my home, the kind of place where my ideas could really flourish, growing like plants,” Jameela said.  

One such idea was the Bright Patch Cafe.  

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Growing up, some of Jameela’s fondest memories were of cafe-hopping with her mum, trying different foods and coffees, and simply enjoying each other’s company.  

Wanting to create that same warmth for other families, she imagined a space where parents could enjoy a relaxing feed while their children had room to explore and have a bit of fun.

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With its detailed Alice in Wonderland theme, Bright Patch became a kind of rabbit hole in the heart of Proserpine, where children can escape into a space filled with colour, imagination and play.

Alongside the cafe, Empowering Kids Therapy has continued to expand, carrying the same focus on helping young people feel safe, supported and able to thrive.  

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In June 2026, the business became Empowering Pathways Therapy, expanding its focus to support adults as they develop their own pathways through life, through a creative, neurodiversity-affirming and deeply human approach.  

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“I like being able to walk alongside each person as they discover their strengths, build confidence and shape a meaningful life,” Jameela said.  

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Together, the cafe and therapy practice tell one story.

“People flourish when they feel safe, seen, heard, respected and valued.”  

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Jameela’s drive to help people has now earned her recognition beyond the walls of the cafe and therapy rooms.

She has been named a finalist in two ALIBI award categories, Regional Service Superstar and Business Lady of the Year, and a listed nominee in the Whitsundays Business Awards, are moment she describes as both surprising and deeply meaningful.

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“The two ALIBI finalist places were a beautiful full-circle moment,” Jameela said.

The woman who wandered into business by following her heart is now preparing for interviews celebrating her acumen.

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But for Jameela, the finalist places are not just about business success. They are about the families, staff, collaborators and community members who have helped bring each idea to life.

“The recognition is beautiful, but it belongs to everyone who has believed in the vision and helped make these spaces what they are,” Jameela said.

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brightpatchcafe.com.au

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Get To Know Dr Kaveet Raniga

September 14, 2026

Hanly Dental Studio’s New Associate Dentist

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Star Sign: Aries

Favourite Movie: Pacific Rim

Favourite Colour: Red

Favourite Holiday Destination: Fiji

Favourite Music: Rock

Favourite Quote: “Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country.” – John F. Kennedy

Something most people don't know about you: I enjoy hands on activities like painting miniature figurines and target shooting.

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Mackay-born dentist Dr Kaveet Raniga is swapping miniature figurines and long-distance target shooting for a new chapter at Hanly Dental Studio, bringing more than five years of hands-on experience and a friendly, people-focused approach to his role as Associate Dentist, with bookings opening from September.

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Dr Kaveet has always enjoyed working with his hands, but when he first started treating patients in his third year of University everything just clicked. 

“When I started treating patients that’s when I really found a passion for it.”

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More than five years later, it’s the variety of dentistry, and the people behind each appointment, that continue to make the profession rewarding for Dr Kaveet.

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While no two days are the same,  his role often sees him involved in ceramic work and rehabilitation, alongside check-ups, fillings, cleans, whitening and oral surgery – but whether a patient needs a small procedure or more complex treatment, Dr Kaveet’s focus remains firmly on helping people feel comfortable, cared for and confident in their treatment.

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For Dr Kaveet, some of the most rewarding moments are often the smallest. Whether it’s seeing a patient’s genuine reaction when they look in the mirror after treatment, or giving a young patient a high-five after a check-up, he values the opportunity to make someone’s experience a positive one.

“It's just small wholesome moments like that that really mean a lot to me.”

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That people-first approach is particularly important when treating patients who may feel nervous or apprehensive about visiting the dentist.

Dr Kaveet believes building trust can take time and is more than happy to work at a patient’s pace, whether they are coming in for a routine check-up or something more elaborate.

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Outside the clinic, Dr Kaveet is a self-confessed dog lover, with plans to welcome a Kelpie once he has settled into his new role.  

After growing up in Mackay, apart from moving to Cairns for university, Dr Kaveet is looking forward to continuing his career close to home and joining a team he already feels comfortable with.

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Bringing his experience, curiosity and distinctly “jokey, friendly and professional” personality to Hanly Dental Studio, Dr Kaveet is ready to help Mackay locals feel a little more at ease in the dental chair.

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Contact the friendly team at Hanly Dental Studio for more details!

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The Investigator Bringing Top-Level Expertise to Small-Town Clients

July 10, 2026

With Jason King from Regional Queensland Investigations

Many people's conception of the work of a private investigator is shaped by what they have seen on television—big cities, stakeouts, and dirty tactics.

The reality can be very different.

Four years ago, private investigator Jason King moved from Melbourne to Mackay. There, he observed unmet demand which led him to rebrand his company J&D Online Investigations and bring a regional focus to the forefront of his business. Now, he operates as Regional Queensland Investigations, bringing extensive expertise to complex cases in communities that don’t often feature on crime dramas.

With a team of trusted investigators, Jason solves cases, provides answers, and helps people who feel let down by institutions across Queensland and beyond—from Mackay to Cairns, to Western Queensland and the Northern Territory.

“I'm born and bred from country Victoria, so I'm not a city person—I understand people in the regions and how they like to be treated,” he explained.

Jason brings vast experience to every case, having led an impressive career across the Australian Federal Police, Victoria Police, and the legal sector, holding degrees in law and computer science.

His impact has been felt across counter-terrorism investigations, child exploitation cases, fraud, cybercrime, and more. He is even working on a cold-case murder from 1988.

Currently, a significant focus for the company is workplace investigations, where they can provide an independent and expert perspective to identify fraud and resolve complex dynamics and conflicts.

“When I go in, I don’t know Peter from Paul,” Jason explained.

“My role is to look at the evidence and make recommendations based on what I find. No conflict of interest.”

As Queensland Chapter President of the Australian Institute of Private Investigators, Jason is passionate about industry standards.

“There are P.I.s out there who aren’t licensed. Even if they do a good job, if the case goes to court, that can cause it to be thrown out.”

His vision for Regional Queensland Investigations is to ensure everyone has access to experienced professionals if they find themselves in a tough situation—wherever they live.

“Regional communities deserve the same quality of service as the cities,” Jason said.

“They shouldn’t have to settle for less.”

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Leading With Experience And A Lifelong Passion For Travel

July 10, 2026

With Stacey Brownsey, Manager of Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant

For Stacey Brownsey, travel has never been just a career; it has always been part of who she is.

Now Manager of Helloworld Travel, Stacey has spent almost 25 years helping Mackay travellers explore the world, after first entering the industry through a trainee position advertised in the Daily Mercury in 2001.

Her passion for travel began long before that.

“I’ve loved travel from a very early age,” she said.

“I started travelling internationally through sport when I was 15, and I also grew up listening to stories from my mum about living and working in Canada in the 1960s. Travel has always been a big part of my life; it’s something that really feels like it’s in my blood.”

Over the years, Stacey has helped clients plan everything from family holidays and tailor-made European itineraries to cruises and once-in-a-lifetime adventures.

Stacey believes the business’s strong local foundation has played a major role in its success across the Mackay region.

“Being locally owned and operated has always been something really special about our business,” she said.

“Over the years we’ve continued to evolve through innovation, training and industry changes, and I think the resilience of our team has been one of our greatest strengths.”

She said travellers were increasingly seeking more meaningful and personalised experiences, with nature-based travel and smaller group journeys continuing to grow in popularity.

“We’re seeing more people wanting unique, off-the-beaten-track destinations and experiences connected to wildlife and nature,” she said.

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Creating Exceptional Travel Experiences Over 26 Years

July 10, 2026

With 26 years at Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant, Matthew Perre, Senior Manager of Sales has built a career around helping clients create memorable travel experiences across the globe.

Driven by a passion for travel and connecting people with unforgettable destinations, Matthew said the industry offered the perfect opportunity to turn clients’ dream holidays into reality.

“I loved the idea of creating memorable experiences for people,” he explained.

“Over time, my passion for travel and sharing those experiences with others led me to help turn other people’s travel dreams into reality.”

Matthew believes the supportive and relationship-focused culture at Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant is what continues to set the business apart.

“We genuinely care about our clients and each other while maintaining strong professionalism, teamwork and a commitment to delivering exceptional travel experiences,” he said.

Having travelled extensively, Africa remains a standout destination for Matthew thanks to its wildlife, scenery and safari experiences, while Central Asia and the historic Silk Road remain firmly on his bucket list!

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Sharing A Passion For Travel Through Hosted Journeys

July 10, 2026

Johanna Wood’s love of travel began at a young age, and nearly two decades later, that passion continues to shape her career as Groups and Training Manager at Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant.

Having worked with the business for 19 years, Johanna joined Helloworld Travel, then Harvey World Travel, just two years after finishing school.

“I always knew I wanted to work in the travel industry,” she said.

“I began working at Helloworld Travel just two years out of school and I have never looked back.”

One of Johanna’s favourite parts of the role is hosting group tours and travelling alongside clients on hosted journeys.

“Being able to travel with our customers and share those experiences with them is one of my favourite things,” she enthused.

When it comes to current travel trends, Johanna said Japan remained one of the most sought-after destinations.

Johanna also noted cruising, both river and ocean, continue to grow in popularity among travellers seeking unique experiences around the world!

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Decades Of Experience Drive Passion For Travel At Helloworld

July 10, 2026

After almost three decades with Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant, International and Domestic Travel Consultant Jill Johansen still finds joy in helping clients bring their travel dreams to life.

A lifelong fascination with travel first inspired Jill to enter the industry in 1970, where she applied for roles as both a travel consultant and ground hostess.

“I thought if I was unable to travel all the time, I should plan and bring clients’ dreams to life,” she said.

Over the years, Jill has witnessed enormous changes across the travel industry, but says the excitement of travel has never faded.

“There have been so many memorable moments throughout my career,” she said.

“I never get tired of watching aircraft thundering down runways at airports and people watching. I always imagine where people are travelling to when you see all their happy faces.”

Jill said trust, loyalty and personalised service continue to set Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant apart.

“We treasure customer and staff loyalty as a priority always,” she said.

“Repeat business is everything and clients need to know that trust is everything.”

Having travelled extensively herself, Jill lists Africa, Antarctica, Greece and Malta among her favourite destinations, while seeing polar bears in the wild remains firmly on her bucket list!

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Three Decades Of Travel Experience

July 10, 2026

With Helloworld’s Daneal Rokic

After first joining Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant in 1993, Daneal Rokic is now celebrating more than 30 years in the travel industry.

Starting out working Thursday nights and Saturday mornings at the Mt Pleasant office, Ms Rokic later secured a full-time role in 1996 and has remained part of the Helloworld team ever since.

Her passion for travel first began as a teenager after being selected for Mackay City Council’s sister city exchange trip to Matsuura, Japan, in 1992.

“That travel experience opened my eyes to a new world,” Ms Rokic said.

“I knew I wanted to explore the world, and the travel industry was the perfect platform.”

Throughout her career, Ms Rokic has helped countless clients plan holidays around the globe while also creating unforgettable travel memories of her own.

One experience that has stayed with her was completing the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in South America.

“It was definitely the hardest thing I’ve ever done, and to get to the end of walking for four days to view the incredible site at sunrise was something I will never forget,” she said.

Ms Rokic said the supportive team culture and family feel at Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant had played a major role in her long-standing career with the company.

She said destinations including Japan, Vietnam, Thailand and New Zealand were currently among the most popular choices for travellers, and her hot travel tip? Air tags, air tags, air tags!

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Get To Know Kirra Tully From Greater Whitsunday Innovation

September 22, 2025

Position: Manager 

Star Sign: Pieces 
 
Fav Movie: I love a good period drama 
 
Fav Colour:
Green 
 
Fav Holiday destination: I have travelled all over the world but there is nowhere quite like home: Eungella, Cape Hillsborough, Whitsunday islands or any of Mackay’s beautiful beaches 
 
Fav Music: Very eclectic from Metallica to spice girls. I love it all 

 
Tell us something most people don't know about you? I love to learn about medicinal uses of plants. 

As General Manager of Greater Whitsunday Innovation, Kirra Tully is at the heart of driving digital growth across the Mackay Isaac Whitsunday region. With a career that spans sustainability, events, and entrepreneurship, she has built a reputation for connecting people with ideas that spark a passion for change.

At GWI, she leads initiatives that help small businesses embrace AI, creates platforms for entrepreneurs, and brings national voices to the region. Kirra also serves as Mackay AI Chapter Director, advocating for safe and effective use of artificial intelligence.

And when she’s not immersed in tech, Kirra enjoys the simplicity of life.

She is a lover of Mackay’s natural beauty, often finding peace in exploring the outdoors with family or enjoying quality time at the beach. She has a broad taste in music, a fondness for stories that transport her to another era, and a curiosity for the healing properties of plants.

Passionate about her home and its people, Kirra continues to champion innovation that not only strengthens businesses but also enriches the community and the region she’s proud to call home.

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Get To Know Zoe Knight From Greater Whitsunday Innovation

September 22, 2025

Position: Project Officer
Star Sign: Libra
Fav Movie: Loves all movies and genres, but can’t do anything zombie
Fav Colour: Teal
Fav Holiday destination: Would love to do a 2-month trek through Europe
Fav Music: Very much an all-rounder with music, but can’t get into screamo/hardcore metal or indie
Fav Quote: “Let them.”
Tell us something most people don’t know about you: I love fishing

Zoe Knight is a Project Officer at Greater Whitsunday Innovation, overseeing programs, events, and communications to support businesses and the community in the Mackay Isaac Whitsunday region.

After growing up in Brisbane and spending time in the Isaac region, Zoe fell in love with the lifestyle and has called Mackay home for the past 11 years.

Nothing means more to Zoe than family. She and her partner raise a blended family of three children, finding joy in the chaos and laughter that comes with everyday life.

When she’s not spending time with family, Zoe also enjoys fishing, being creative, and staying active. This year, she joined the Women’s Hawks Softball Team, adding sport and camaraderie to her routine.

Her heart for community is also reflected in volunteering as an event coordinator with the Northview State School P&C Association, a role she says is greatly rewarding.

Even as she balances personal and community commitments, Zoe’s professional life quietly complements who she is. She thrives on connecting people and helping others feel confident navigating digital tools.

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