From safeguarding the skies to protecting the planet, Aleisha Lade is a woman of ambition with a heart for creating fun, sustainable toys that benefit not only children but the environment too!

After serving in a security role with the Australian Air Force, Aleisha developed a strong foundation in discipline and adaptability. Now, she’s implementing those same skills into Playful Eco, an e-commerce toy shop dedicated to providing eco-friendly and sustainable toys for families, teachers, and childcare centres.  

Though running an eco-conscious business does come with its challenges, Aleisha emphasises the importance of maintaining a positive mindset, which has helped her navigate obstacles and ultimately, grow her business along the way.  

If there’s one woman she looks up to, it’s her mother, who has been a key role model in all aspects of her life.  

“My mum would definitely be my best role model when achieving success because she has always showed me strength, love and a good work ethic,” Aleisha says with a smile.

Aleisha also finds inspiration in successful female entrepreneurs, particularly Samantha Hurst, the founder of Click Start Digital, from whom she purchased Playful Eco. She admires Samantha’s mission of empowering others to start online businesses and appreciates the guidance she received in setting up her own successful venture.

Outside of Playful Eco, Aleisha enjoys spending time with family and friends. She values these moments as a way to stay grounded and maintain a strong work-life balance.  

She advises "including in your week at least one self-care day, a day where you can relax, unwind, and do the things that you love.”

“For me, I love spending time with family and friends, especially catching up with my sisters and seeing my nieces and nephews on the weekends.”

Having experienced the challenges of business firsthand, she encourages others to stay committed to their dreams and keep pushing forward no matter what.

“Don’t doubt yourself—just do it,” she says.  

“I would also say that staying positive and turning challenges into learning experiences has really helped me through each step of the way.”

More than just an online toy store, Playful Eco reflects Aleisha’s passion. As a driven and ambitious business owner, Aleisha has created a space where sustainability meets education, ensuring every toy nurtures a child’s development while protecting the planet for future generations.

Parents can trust in her vision, knowing that every product is carefully chosen for its quality, safety, and positive impact.


What's an item that's always in your handbag?

“Sunglasses”

What's your mid-arvo routine?

“After a long day, I find unwinding with a good book or TV show helps me switch off from thinking about work. A good coffee helps too!”

If you could describe yourself in 3 words, what would they be?

“Ambitious, generous and considerate.”

playfuleco.com.au

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Through a combination of hands-on treatments, workshops, and wellness programs, Bowen Lymphatic Health & Wellness owner, Mardi Mandersloot’s focus is on ensuring her clients get the relief and support they need.
“I help people understand how their lymphatic and other body systems work together by focusing on improving lymphatic flow and overall well-being. My goal is to not only provide relief and support in the clinic but give clients the tools and knowledge they need to maintain their health and vitality,” Mardi expresses.
Mardi understands the importance of health, carrying the BRCA 2 gene mutation, which is her drive behind education on holistic health to support western medicine.
“This gene mutation is why I am so passionate about preventative health. After a mastectomy at 33 years of age and completely losing touch of who I am and what I stand for, I hit rock bottom,” she explains.
“It was a journey to get where I am today. It’s taught me that our circumstances do not define us.”
When she’s not assisting clients, Mardi’s known to love a good adventure. She once lived on the road for a time.
“I lived on the road with my husband, son and border collie for 3.5 years. I love doing fun things like that, it’s revitalising.”
When she’s not doing road-trips, Mardi finds inspiration from strong females.
“A wonderful woman role model who’s helped me achieve success is, Steph Gorton, a business coach who inspired me when I first started in business. She continues to inspire me today.
“Chelsey Jean, from Chelsey Jean lymphatics is my current mentor. Her expertise in the Lymphatic field is very extensive, who’s a single mum achieving so much success. She’s a breath of fresh air.”
“Agy Carter is another woman in my life who’s helped me achieve. A mentor and master in energy work, this amazing soul has taught me to bring courage and stay connected within, discovering and embracing all the parts of me.”
Mardi Mandersloot – also a great role model and inspiration to all!
What item’s always in your handbag?
My CJ Lymphatic glove

bowenlymphatichealth@outlook.com

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In 2015, Trish O’Sing founded Luxe with a clear vision – to empower women. Through her innovative 12-month self-development and modelling program, she helped women of all ages build self-love and confidence.
“I suffered from Interstitial Cystitis, which impacted my confidence and created a rollercoaster of anxiety and depression. I wanted to teach others how to push through difficulties and embrace discomfort because that's where the magic happens.”
One of the many women uplifted by Luxe was Kenley Collett, who joined the program in 2018 after the birth of her second child while battling post-natal depression.
“I was born with congenital hip dysplasia and have severe scarring from surgeries throughout my life. After having my children, I longed to love and be proud of the woman I saw in the mirror. Trish was an inspiration—her determination and confidence were infectious. I wanted to learn everything I could to feel the same way.”
In 2019, Trish made the decision to close Luxe to focus on family, welcoming her daughter, Kensley. “Her name was a tribute to Kenley—the incredible woman I watched fight to rebuild herself.”
Then in 2024 both women faced new battles that tested their resilience. Kenley underwent a full hip replacement, embarking on a journey to regain her independence. Out of this challenge, she launched Kenley Collective Lifestyle Boutique. “I wanted to create an income to support my family and be a role model for my children, showing them that determination wins.”
The same year Trish endured a family breakdown and six months later, was diagnosed with aggressive ovarian and uterine tumours. A full hysterectomy was required. “It was the scariest and hardest time of my life—a time that forced deep reflection and self-discovery."
Trish reopened Luxe and the women reconnected deciding to collaborate under Luxe Whitsundays, a sanctuary where women can escape daily stresses and reset their lives.
Kenley manages daily operations and serves as the friendly face that welcomes customers to Luxe. With Trish overseeing the Luxe Wellness Retreat, guiding clients through detox and cellular re-energising treatments while managing business operations.
"Kenley truly is the Yin to my Yang," Trish shares. "Her vibrant personality keeps me grounded and reminds me of the beauty in every moment.”
Together, Trish and Kenley have turned their personal struggles into a mission to empower and uplift other women. Luxe Whitsundays stands as a testament to resilience, strength, and the unwavering belief that even through life's toughest moments, transformation and success are always within reach.

Favorite place to chill and unwind?
Kenley: In bed with a good book.
Trish: The beach.

luxewhitsundays.com

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magine a space where the rhythm of music meets the joy of sensory play, and families can unwind, connect, and grow together.
This is the world Tina Ramsland has crafted with Maggie Moo Music, a place where children light up to their favourite songs while parents can relax and enjoy the moment. But Tina is taking things a step further—she’s recently introduced The Little Party Place within her business, offering a vibrant venue where families can celebrate life’s special moments.
By combining music, movement, and now a dedicated party space, Tina is redefining how parents in Mackay experience both fun and community, creating a dynamic hub where learning, connection, and unforgettable memories are made.
With 25 years of experience in early childhood education, Tina’s journey has been shaped by a deep passion for helping children grow through sensory-rich music sessions. Through a combination of singing, dancing, and playing with props like puppets and scarves, Tina encourages self-expression and social connection, while also allowing mums and dads a much-needed break.
She’s acutely aware of the challenges that local mothers face, balancing careers and family life, as she’s been there herself.
“I understand how hard it is to juggle everything, especially when you have a partner working away in the mines,” she shares.
The Little Party Place within the Gasworks, has quickly become a lively addition to Mackay’s family scene. This vibrant space offers more than just a place for celebrations—it's an extension of the Maggie Moo Music philosophy, bringing rhythm, fun, and community into a new setting.
Tina’s journey is an inspiration to all women looking to start their own business. Her advice? Take it slow, trust your instincts, and enjoy the process.
“You have your whole life to perfect your business model,” she says, offering a reminder that growth, both personal and professional, is a lifelong journey.

What is a mantra / quote you live by?
“An oldie but a goodie- "This too shall pass" because in today's ever changing world it holds very true - everything is fleeting - both the good and the bad so there is no need to focus on either.”
Do you have a beauty tip or product you can't live without?

Moisturiser and sunscreen! Growing up, I was told moisturiser clogged pores and sunscreen wasn’t necessary (how wrong I was!). Now, both are essential for keeping skin youthful, healthy, and wrinkle-free. It's never too early to start!
What's an item that's always in your handbag?

Baby wipes! My youngest is 6, but I still buy them in bulk. They're perfect for everything from stain removal to cleaning sunglasses and even a quick car clean at the traffic lights—total life-saver!

Socials
Facebook - Maggie-Moo-Music-Mackay
Facebook – The Little Party Place

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With a background in corporate communication, stakeholder engagement, professional writing and consulting, later in life Melanie Lass discovered her true vocation was in networking, marketing and digital skills.

Today, Melanie navigates the fast-paced world of managing digital media channels, external communications, and brand elevation, always prioritising human connection.

Her top marketing tip is to upskill staff to "content creator" status within your organisation, capturing consistent, on-the-go iPhone shoots. This behind-the-scenes approach engages your social media audience while remaining cost-effective through authentic storytelling.

Melanie combines creativity with strategy to make digital storytelling effortless. When she’s not teaching social media optimisation, she's behind the camera lens, capturing everything from portraits to 4K drone videos. Melanie is inspiring a thriving community of content creators in Mackay and the Whitsundays, demonstrating the power of organic social media for authentic branding.

Melanie recently had a professional article published in an industry magazine, discussing the power of organic social media and content creation to influence the future of community connection online.

Did you know? 33,900 people aged 14-44 have an Instagram account in Mackay.

Melanie believes that in the future, social media will increasingly focus on authenticity and meaningful engagement. Investing in quality social media content including video reels allows organisations to build genuine connections and foster successful collaborations.

This approach moves beyond superficial likes and shares to create deeper, more impactful interactions.

Melanie is keen to connect with leading women and men in business.

Fun Facts about Melanie

Fav Colour: Neutrals
Fav Holiday Destination: Anywhere coastal
Fav Music: Taylor Swift
Fav TV Show or Movie: Docuseries on Netflix

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LinkedIn or Instagram @shesmelaniex

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Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins believes the region is entering an exciting new era of growth, opportunity, and prosperity.
 
“With record population growth, a booming tourism sector, and thriving industries in mining and agriculture, the Whitsundays is well-positioned to unlock its full economic potential,” Mayor Collins said.
 
As one of Queensland’s fastest-growing regions, more people are choosing to live, work, and invest in the Whitsundays, drawn by its stunning landscapes, vibrant lifestyle, and expanding job opportunities.
 
“But with growth comes responsibility. This surge in population is increasing demand for housing, infrastructure, and essential services, making strategic planning more important than ever.
 
“That’s why Council is refining the Economic Development Strategy 2025–2030—a plan designed to build a stronger, more resilient, and diverse local economy,” Mayor Collins said.
 
This strategy will position the wider Whitsunday region as a hub for innovation and future-focused industries while continuing to strengthen its traditional economic pillars—agriculture, mining, and tourism.
 
To drive this vision forward, Council is excited to welcome Paul Hanlon as the new Manager of Investment Attraction and Growth.
 
“Paul brings extensive experience and a strong focus on attracting investment, building strategic partnerships, and advocating for regional priorities at all levels of government. His expertise will be invaluable in ensuring the Whitsundays remains a competitive and attractive destination for business and industry,” Mayor Collins said.
 
A Vision for the Future
 
Paul Hanlon sees huge potential in the Whitsundays and is eager to play a role in shaping its economic future.
 
“The Whitsundays is a region of opportunity, growth, and innovation. By working together—Council, businesses, and government—we can unlock investment, create jobs, and build a strong future,” Mr Hanlon said.
 
“Securing the right investments in infrastructure, industry diversification, and innovation will ensure the Whitsundays remains a leading destination for business, tourism, and sustainable development.
 
“This is an incredibly exciting time for our region, and I encourage everyone to get involved in the consultation process for the Economic Development Strategy 2025–2035. Your voice matters.
 
“By working together, we can create a stronger, more vibrant Whitsundays—a place where businesses flourish, industries thrive, and our community continues to grow and prosper,” Mr Hanlon said.
 
Now is the time to be part of this journey—have your say, get involved, and help shape the future of our region!
 
Turning Masterplans into Reality
 
Mayor Collins stresses that now is the time to move from planning to action, ensuring vital infrastructure is delivered to support the Whitsunday region’s growing population.
 
"Council is actively advancing key masterplans, including the Airlie Beach Precinct, Bowen Foreshore, Cannonvale Community Hub, Whitsunday Regional Sports Precinct, and Whitsunday Coast Airport.
 
These projects are part of a broader initiative to plan 20-30 years ahead, ensuring our Whitsunday region is well-equipped to meet future demands.
 
"The $14.5 million Collinsville Community Hub is a game-changer for our remote rural community, providing vital infrastructure to support locals now and into the future.
 
"To support the Whitsundays’ continued growth as a thriving regional hub, we must deliver the key infrastructure and facilities our community needs.
 
"Ensuring accessible housing, adapting our tourism industry to emerging market trends, and positioning our region to capitalise on opportunities from the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games are all essential,” Mayor Collins said.
 
“Now is the time to invest in the future, strengthen our economy, and build a region that meets the needs of both residents and visitors for years to come."

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Some women make headlines. Others make history in quieter ways—showing up, pushing through, and changing lives without fanfare. The JSP Women’s Awards were made for them.
As The Just Saying Project (JSP) marks 10 years of amplifying women’s voices, the 2025 awards will once again cast a spotlight on those who rarely seek it. With the International Women’s Day theme Accelerate Action setting the pace, this year’s celebration isn’t just about recognition—it’s about momentum. Because progress isn’t always loud, but it’s always worth celebrating.
JSP founder Fallon Drewett knows firsthand the power of storytelling in shaping a community.
“Every woman has a story worth telling,” she said.
“These awards aren’t just about the big wins—they’re about the small, everyday victories that create real change.”
For the past decade, JSP has been creating spaces where women can be heard, seen, and supported. From community projects to sold-out events, its impact has rippled far beyond Mackay. And as the awards enter their fourth year, the movement is only growing stronger.
The seven award categories highlight a diverse range of achievements, from the Resilient Rebel, honouring those who have turned adversity into strength, to the Magic Muse, celebrating women shaping the arts and media. A new category, The Woman Who Breaks the Mould, will be awarded to a nominee who embodies multiple qualities, someone whose influence defies a single definition.
“These awards are for the women who keep showing up—not for applause, but because it’s who they are,” Fallon said.
“It’s about recognising their magic, their resilience, and their quiet but powerful impact.”
And it’s not just about women. The Equaliser category acknowledges men who actively support, uplift, and advocate for the women in their lives. Because real progress happens when everyone is part of the conversation.
Last year, over 135 nominations poured in, proving how many remarkable women are making a difference behind the scenes. This year’s event, set for March 29 at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre, promises to be more than a ceremony—it’s a statement. A night of connection, recognition, and celebration.
Fallon extended her gratitude to sponsors, including Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal and BMA, whose support helps turn this vision into reality.
“Great things don’t just happen in big cities,” she said.
“They happen in communities like ours, where people lift each other up.”
The JSP Women’s Awards remind us that recognition isn’t just about who wins—it’s about making sure every woman’s story has a place to be heard.

JSP founder Fallon Drewett
A night of celebration and sisterhood—women from across the region embracing the joy, connection, and empowerment of the 2024 JSP Women’s Awards

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Club Whitsunday is Airlie Beach’s first true community club, designed to offer a modern, dynamic space for everyone to enjoy. Unlike traditional sports clubs, it serves as a vibrant hub for the entire community, featuring a full range of amenities including a stylish bar, a contemporary bistro, exciting wagering options, and a spacious gaming floor. Open seven days a week, Club Whitsunday provides an elevated hospitality experience that caters to both locals and visitors alike.
The all-new club boasts a custom-designed kitchen and back-of-house facilities, featuring impressive additions like a large charcoal oven.
In addition, Club Whitsunday has successfully secured renowned local chef Zibby Deca, who has dedicated his recent years of work honing his knowledge and skills in charcoal cooking and food preserving, Zibby explained that with the club's charcoal oven he now has the “privilege of sharing” his “knowledge and passion with guests.”
Thanks to the quality of the kitchen design and fit-out, as well as the creation of a brand-new menu, the club has already received glowing reviews for its food. The menu offers a variety of options, including great value choices, along with high-end, locally sourced steak and seafood dishes.
Club Whitsunday isn’t limited to just one sport. While it will support the five primary member codes—AFL, Football (Soccer), Netball, Rugby Union, and Touch Footy—it will also extend its support to associated codes like Cricket and Rugby League that use the park facilities.
Members can join the club for just $5 per year and receive a membership card for discounts and rewards. Members can choose a sporting or community organisation to support, with more funding directed to the groups selected by members based on their spending. Club Whitsunday rewards those who support it.
Justin Butler, President of Club Whitsunday, is thrilled to see the Club open.
“Personally, for me, it’s the culmination of a passion project that I figured would take four years but ended up taking 10 years.
“After a long haul, I’m enjoying handing the day-to-day running of the park over to other volunteers and the day-to-day running of the Club over to paid professionals. I’m looking forward to getting back to my family, business, and personal sport.
“A lot of people have put in countless volunteer hours over the years to get to this point, as they could see what a massive change this club will bring to the community.
“In time, it will take a huge load off the volunteers of all the sports, as they no longer need to spend hours providing food and drinks for players and spectators. Instead, they can focus their time on attracting more players, coaching teams, and managing the growth of their sports.
“Consistency in field maintenance, such as herbicides, fertilising, top dressing, and line marking, will lead to some of the best playing surfaces in the area. Improved lighting, additional shade, and more seating will also support the growth of sports in the region.”
Sports tourism is increasingly becoming a major contributor to Airlie Beach’s thriving visitor market. From local teams travelling from Mackay for home matches to large-scale events like the Sea Eagles AFL preseason and the Touch Footy Whitsunday Cup, sporting events are filling local accommodations and boosting the hospitality sector.
Airlie Beach has also attracted high-profile events, such as Qld regional NFL Gridiron and Rugby League, thanks to recent upgrades to its facilities.
Previously hosting the NRL Kangaroos training camp and Cowboys Young Guns and with upcoming events like the Firebirds netball match, the region is poised to continue attracting top-tier sporting events, further driving tourism growth. Club Whitsunday look forward to AFL, Football and Rugby Union enticing their top-tier teams for exhibition matches and so on. Club Whitsunday will undoubtedly serve as a vibrant hub for these events.

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Each sporting code at the Sportspark is an incorporated body run by a volunteer committee.  

Local sports, from Touch Footy with Monday night competitions and annual carnivals to Football with multiple men’s and women’s teams playing weekly, are all run by volunteers. These volunteers coach, manage, and develop players, dedicating countless hours to their sports. Participation is surging post-COVID and as the population grows.

The sporting fields and courts are on land leased from the council, zoned for recreation, and managed by Whitsunday Sportspark Operations Inc. A volunteer committee oversees maintenance, including insurance, mowing, spraying, and lighting, as well as coordinating events, seasonal activities, carnivals, and special bookings.

The land immediately around Club Whitsunday is freehold and is owned by a public company that owns and operates Club Whitsunday.  

The voting shareholders in this company are the 5 foundation sports of AFL, Football (Soccer), Netball, Rugby Union and Touch Footy and they have one vote each on any major events.

There is a Board of Directors elected by the sports whose volunteer role is to oversee the management and running of Club Whitsunday for the benefit of the shareholders and public.

Being such a significant hospitality offering the day-to-day management of the Club is by professional paid staff.  

Club Whitsunday have a high-end General Manager from NSW overseeing all facets of the Club including future growth, an operations Manager running the bars and gaming, an Executive Chef running the kitchen along with a Sous Chef and several Duty Managers to cover the 100 odd hours the facility is open per week.  
Club Whitsunday is a major local employer, with staff across the bar, kitchen, gaming, cleaning, and administration sectors.
It is a professional operation, not run by sportspeople, but by hospitality experts under the oversight of unpaid, volunteer Directors. These Directors must have significant hospitality experience and bear responsibility for the facility, staff, and shareholders.
The Club is seeking new Directors as those who helped establish it step down, looking for individuals with experience in managing or owning hospitality venues. If you're interested, approach senior staff or current Directors, who can connect you with the sports and guide you through the nomination process for the AGM in March.
The PCYC and Bowls Clubs are independent entities with their own land, separate from Club Whitsunday, though they share the Sportspark precinct and collaborate closely.
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Representatives enjoying a beer at the brand-new Club Whitsunday
Three Directors of Club Whitsunday, Justin Butler, Tim Langford and Craig Spence
Rachael Smith and Ruth Puddefoot

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Growing up in Beechworth, Victoria, sport was a central part of life. Whether competing at the state level or cheering on his teams, Josh always had a fierce rivalry with New South Wales. When he moved to Moruya Golf Club on the NSW South Coast as CEO in 2019, he carried his Victorian roots with him, including a love for Queensland in the State of Origin, Melbourne Storm in the NRL, and AFL as his number one sport.
Now, Josh is bringing his expertise to Club Whitsunday, where he’s excited to help launch the new venue. With 18 years of experience in club management, Josh explained how the opportunity to build up Club Whitsunday and make it the prime venue in Airlie Beach was too exciting to pass up.
“I’m excited to lead Club Whitsunday and strengthen its ties with the local community,” Josh said. “It’s an opportunity to provide a much-needed hub for entertainment, food, and community events, and to support local sporting groups from juniors to seniors.”
Josh believes in the power of sport to improve both physical and mental health. He plans to make the club a key player in fostering local talent and community engagement.
“Once the club is open it would be great to meet the locals,”  
“People will see me around the club most days and I would welcome everyone to introduce themselves.
“Who knows I might be able to get some of the secret fishing spots off someone,” he added.

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Tracy O'Shea brings over 10 years of experience in the hospitality industry, primarily with community clubs. Her most recent role was Club Manager at Benowa Bowls Club on the Gold Coast, before she relocated back to Far North Queensland in December last year.
As part of the team behind Club Whitsunday, Tracy is excited to have contributed to the opening of this new venue. She’s particularly eager to see the membership grow, especially with the support of the various sporting clubs in the local precinct.
“I am very excited to be a part of the daily operations of running the club with both General Manager Joshua and continued working relationship with the Executive Committee, who have worked tirelessly on preparing for the opening,” Tracy explained.
“It’s exciting to be working with our Chef Zibby, who is producing some amazing meals, and looking forward to meeting the new members over the coming years,” she added.
Tracy is looking forward to introducing membership promotions in the coming months, seeing local entertainers perform at the club, and working with the team to help the club grow and support the local community.
Outside of work, Tracy loves looking out from her balcony at the “absolutely magical ocean” that Airlie Beach has to offer, and she can’t wait to go out and explore the islands.

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With over 10 years of experience in the Whitsundays, Zibby Deca has built a diverse and extensive career in the local food industry. He has collaborated with a wide range of businesses, from assisting with the launch of new restaurants to managing catering departments and preparing food for large community events and music festivals.
Zibby has also worked as a private chef for high-end clients, offering his culinary expertise aboard luxury yachts and in exclusive holiday homes. About a year ago, he joined a well-known local Italian restaurant, where he had the opportunity to work alongside talented chefs, further deepening his understanding of the regional food scene.
These varied experiences, Zibby believes, have equipped him with a broad skillset and a unique insight into both local flavors and the diverse needs of his clientele.
Now, Zibby is excited to be part of the opening of Club Whitsunday:
“I’m thrilled to be part of opening the Club. With plenty of space and affordable pricing, I’m sure it will become a go-to spot for locals.”
He adds, “Every new venue is unique. The unpredictability is what excites me—the moment people walk in, experience the atmosphere, and decide if they like it. It’s rewarding to see something new come to life and watch people enjoy it.”
Zibby hopes the community will embrace the Club with enthusiasm and positivity.
In his downtime, he enjoys watching his children play the piano while relaxing on the couch. As the head of his home’s gardening department, he also spends spare moments trimming hedges and mowing the lawn.
“With full support from management, the sky’s the limit.”
“Watch this space for a feast featuring great steaks, local seafood, and churros.”

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Barefoot Medicine Whitsundays is known for its unique blend of a relaxed atmosphere and top-tier professionalism in healthcare. A key factor in the success of this well-established medical institution is its dedicated nurse practitioners, who expertly assess, diagnose, and treat patients with skill and care. These individuals who work diligently behind the scenes, play a crucial role in delivering exceptional patient care.

A Nurse Practitioner (NP) is an advanced Registered Nurse with specialised skills and the authority to diagnose and treat various health conditions. Holding a master’s degree, NPs have high clinical independence and are endorsed by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia. With around 3,000 NPs in the country, they provide patient-centered care, contribute to research and education, and offer services like Medicare rebates, prescriptions, referrals, and diagnostic tests, working closely with other healthcare professionals.

Barefoot Medicine Whitsundays is fortunate to have two of these exceptional healthcare professionals, Brett Johnson and Rachel Jakeman, who each bring their own unique brilliance to the team.

Brett Johnson

Brett’s nursing journey began in 1979 when he switched from university science to hospital-based training in Albury, NSW. After 18 months in Rockhampton, he completed a general ICU certificate at the Royal Melbourne Hospital, followed by work in general, pediatric, and neonatal ICUs in Perth for two years. He then returned to Northeast Victoria, managing the Critical Care and Dialysis Units at Northeast Health Wangaratta for 23 years. In the early 2000s, he pursued a Master's of Clinical Nursing – Nurse Practitioner and completed a 5-year internship.

Endorsed in March 2011, Brett worked at Albury Wodonga Health, then moved to Portland Hospital in 2019, where he completed his Nurse Practitioner training. He took on various roles, including coordinating geriatrician clinics, managing nursing home rounds, consulting on critically ill patients, running respiratory clinics and exercise stress tests, drawing on his critical care expertise.

Brett explains that this partly prepared him for general clinical practice in Cannonvale which since 2022 he has found both challenging and rewarding.  

“I have been fortunate enough to work with a great team and have received valued support from Colleagues GPs at Barefoot Medicine.

“While nurse practitioners don't enjoy the same clinical scope of practice as general practitioners, we can prescribe most drugs under the PBS, we can order x-rays and ultrasounds and refer to medical specialists.”

Brett explains how, over time, the nurse practitioner's scope has broadened and continues to evolve in conjunction with the collegial GPs.

“I believe we can offer a valuable service in these times of scarcity of GP appointments.”  

Rachel Jakeman

Rachel began her nurse practitioner journey in the UK in 2013, leading a community-based team focused on managing chronic conditions, optimising care plans, and preventing hospital admissions. She developed advanced clinical skills in diagnosing and treating various conditions and completed an MSc in Advanced Clinical Practice, enhancing her evidence-based care, leadership, and patient advocacy.

Rachel also specialised in women’s and sexual health, with expertise in contraception, menopause management, and preventive screening, and advanced pediatric assessment training to provide high-quality care to children. After moving to the Whitsundays from Brisbane, she embraced regional healthcare challenges, building strong community relationships and ensuring accessible, quality services.

“My role continues to encompass clinical decision-making, health promotion, education, and multidisciplinary collaboration to enhance patient outcomes.

“While it is a new role, and people aren’t used to seeing nurse practitioners, individuals don’t always know what we can do or our skillset.

"As nurses, we tend to assess people a bit differently, taking a more holistic approach and looking at the full picture. That unique nursing perspective, combined with our skill set, can be a real asset.”

Due to the ongoing GP shortage in Australia, Nurse Practitioners are becoming a key alternative. Barefoot Medicine Whitsundays is actively seeking more Nurse Practitioners, if you think you'd be a great fit, get in touch!

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Karinda Anderson’s story is nothing short of miraculous—a tale of resilience, passion, and an unyielding will to survive against unimaginable odds. Her journey began in Tasmania, where agriculture runs in her veins. Karinda, alongside her husband Dale, and their four children, has dedicated her life to the land, cultivating not only crops but also a deep respect for the farming community. But it’s her battle against trauma that defines the incredible life she leads today.
In 2004, at the age of 29, Karinda’s world was turned upside down when she suffered a catastrophic brain aneurysm. One moment, she was riding a quad bike, tending to sheep in a paddock; the next, she was waking up in a hospital after falling off the bike and plummeting down an embankment. Her condition was so severe that doctors didn’t think she would make it to the hospital alive. She had suffered 27 fractures to her face and skull, and lost the 3rd to 8th cranial nerves that broke off at the brain stem. But she defied all odds by surviving.
The aneurysm was a hereditary condition—Karinda’s mother had suffered the same fate at 29. It was a harsh reality, one that would shape Karinda’s future and her incredible journey of recovery.
“They told my husband Dale to prepare our children for the worst,” Karinda remembers.
“They didn’t think I’d survive.”
For Karinda, the road to recovery was excruciating. Long years of rehabilitation followed, during which she re-learned the basics. It was during this time that Karinda, a proud and passionate farmer, discovered a new way to keep going: by immersing herself in the thing that had always sustained her—the land.
“I had to keep pushing,” she says.
“My four kids were my reason to live. I didn’t want them to see me how I was for the rest of my life.”
Despite the daily struggles and the pain that would never fully subside, Karinda’s mind remained focused.
“You’ve got to tell yourself you can do this. It’s in your own mind to pull yourself out of any negative dark hole,” she says. The aftermath of the aneurysm left Karinda with severe osteoarthritis and other ongoing physical challenges, but it also forged a resilience that would define her life and become the inspiration for a new book.
The family had lived in Tasmania, growing potatoes and contracting large equipment. When their daughter Lucynda expressed a desire to attend Emerald Agriculture College, it prompted Karinda and Dale to make a life-changing decision. They packed up their lives and moved to Queensland, seeking warmer weather and a better climate for Karinda’s health.
They ended up purchasing a cane farm in Calen, which was producing around 2,000 tonnes of sugar cane per season.
“If you’d asked me when we left Tassie whether I’d be doing what I’m doing today, I would have said no way,” Karinda laughs.
Today, their farm produces around 10,000 tonnes of sugar cane, a staggering achievement from humble beginnings. And it’s not just about the farming—it’s about sharing that passion with others. Karinda’s farm stay, Oh Deere Farm Stay and Tours, has become a local institution. What started as a small idea to offer a few people a taste of farm life quickly exploded into something far greater.
“I thought we might get two or three vans a week, but at one stage, we had 45 vans here on the farm,” she recalls.
The tours, which teach visitors about where their food comes from, have become one of Karinda’s greatest joys. She’s passionate about showing people the entire process—how food is planted, grown, harvested, processed, and refined before making its way onto our plates.
“If you ask a child, or even a lot of adults, where sugar comes from, they’ll say the supermarket. But it starts on a farm, and I want to show them that,” Karinda explains.
Her tours also offer hands-on experiences, like chewing on cane or trying fresh sugar cane juice. For Karinda, it’s more than just educating the public—it’s about fostering a deeper connection with the land and the people who work it.
“Without farmers, the world would be lost.
“There’d be no food, no fuel, and no beer to drink at the end of a hard day,” she says.
“I want people to understand what it takes to get food on the table.”
While living in Tasmania, she and her family operated a farmstay that was entirely themed around John Deere, with everything from décor to the farm’s machinery reflecting her love for the brand. The idea grew from her own personal connection to the tractors, which started when she purchased a metal replica John Deere Tonka toy for her son Harley.
The John Deere theme didn’t stop with the farm stay; it blossomed into something even bigger. Karinda transformed an old shack on her property into the "Love Shack" Museum, which houses the largest single-colour replica tractor collection of memorabilia in the southern hemisphere.
Visitors often come specifically to see the museum, which features hundreds of John Deere items and classic old farm items. It even features a John Deere-designed coffin, a symbol of Kalinda’s lifelong connection to the brand.
But Karinda’s story doesn’t end with her success as a farmer and tour guide. There’s another layer to her journey, one that’s just as harrowing as the aneurysm.
Eight years ago, Karinda was diagnosed with chronic myeloma leukemia, a form of blood cancer. The news came after a period of rapid illness, during which she could barely get out of bed.
“They did a blood test, and within 20 minutes, they discovered I had chronic myeloma leukemia,” Karinda said.
“I’ve been to hell and I’m not going back,” Karinda adds, her determination clear.
After her best friend lost her battle with pancreatic cancer, Karinda didn’t want to suffer through the intensive chemotherapy recommended to her in Townsville. Instead, she now takes chemotherapy in pill form, the only type that doesn’t interact with the other medications she needs. Though the cancer has reduced, it's not in remission, and Karinda will likely live with it for the rest of her life.
She suffers daily with the side effects from the chemo, from neuropathy in her hands to constant hair loss. She also struggles with periods of severe vertigo which has hospitalised her on numerous occasions.
Through it all, Karinda has found strength in her family, her farm, and her unwavering love for agriculture. She’s also found a voice—a voice that she’s now using to inspire others. Karinda is currently writing a book to share her story, hoping that it will give others the courage to face their own challenges.
“There is life after a major trauma, and there’s life even after the worst sickness,” she says.
“If I can get through this, anyone can.”
Her book will be a testament to her journey—a journey marked by not just survival, but by thriving against all odds.
In a world where trauma often silences, Karinda’s voice rings out loud and clear—a voice that tells us there is always hope, even in the darkest moments.

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Harnessing four generations and over 100 years of expertise in the building industry, Lowcock Builders have embarked on a new and exciting era with an expansion into a brand-new premise. Pioneering the commercial building space in the Whitsundays and beyond, Lowcock Builders bring their own trademark standard into their new central office space. A striking vision that can easily be spotted from the Bruce Highway in the industrial heart of Bowen, the clean lines and exemplary finish of the building speaks to the style and finesse in which the company complete each project.

Established in 1918, Lowcock Builders are one of North Queensland’s most reputable and trusted commercial builders. With a demonstrated record of local and regional projects across the commercial and industrial sector.

As soon as you walk into the new headquarters, you're immediately struck by the design. The reception area is both stylish and inviting, while the nearby corporate boardroom offers a professional setting. Further inside, you'll find a spacious staffroom/cafeteria, complete with modern appliances.

The first floor features several office spaces and a modern, purpose-built training room. This dedicated training space encompasses Lowcock Builders’ grand vision for upskilling the local construction industry.

Outside the large commercial office space is an open-plan workshop with an extensive storage area, multiple parking zones, washdown facilities, plenty of room for plant and equipment storage, and easy access for large deliveries.

Expanding into this new, highly modern office space illustrates the forward motion of Lowcock Builders and their ability to correctly identify future growth. Previously located on Livingston Street, the company had previously been operating from multiple sites before deciding to centralise operations. Plans for the new building commenced in January 2023 when they purchased the land and construction started in March 2024.

Lowcock Builders is owned and operated by its Director Jack Lowcock and his Compliance Manager wife Jennifer Lowcock with Business Manager Ashlee Denyer and Operations Manager Matt Hildebrandt. Employing a total of 16 local staff with room to expand their team, Lowcock Builders oversee all stages of operations from planning stage to practical completion.

In addition to their main staff, Lowcock Builders work with specialist, highly skilled contractors who they consider to be the top of the various professions.

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