February News
February certainly got off to a wet start for the Whitsundays, but this didn't dampen spirits or prevent me from getting out and about in our region to be part of many local events.
Back to School
The new school year is now in full swing. Congratulations to the student leaders at Bucasia and Cannonvale State Schools. It’s always wonderful to connect with the next generation of leaders in our community!
Welcome to our newest Australian Citizens
The PEC was abuzz with excitement when Whitsunday Regional Council conducted the latest Australian Citizenship Ceremony, welcoming 38 new citizens from 18 different countries. The pride these conferees felt in joining our wonderful nation was clear to see on their happy faces!
Women in Sugar
I was pleased to catch up with Canegrowers Network to present a cheque for sponsorship, as they are hosting the upcoming Women in Sugar Conference. As a former member of this network, I know how valuable it is to connect with other female farmers from across the state to share challenges and achievements.
It’s Playtime!
Do you have a little one who loves to play? Why not join the Northern Beaches Community Playgroup? Apart from being super fun, sessions foster healthy childhood development and help form parental connections and support networks.
Recognising Rebecca
While on the topic of the Northern Beaches Community Playgroup…meet Rebecca. Rebecca Cooper was named Mackay Regional Council's 2025 Australia Day Citizen of the Year for her outstanding contributions to community-building in the Northern Beaches. She is the driving force behind the playgroup. I was delighted to meet with Rebecca recently and am proudly sponsoring her to attend the Qld Volunteering Conference in Brisbane next month. Rebecca, thank you for your dedicated and generous volunteering in our community, particularly in the area of early childhood.
Acknowledging Allegra
I extend my congratulations to Allegra Bradley from Proserpine State High School, who is a recipient of the Premier’s Anzac Prize for 2025. The Anzac legacy will remain as strong as ever with young Queenslanders such as Allegra embarking on an epic research journey thanks to the Premier’s annual Anzac Prize. Allegra has already commenced her First World War research at the State Library of Queensland and she will bring in-depth knowledge back to her hometown here in the Whitsundays. Together with the other recipients, Allegra will attend the Anzac Day Dawn Service in Villers-Bretonneux in France later this year and tour important memorial sites in the United Kingdom and Belgium with expert historians. Once again, many congratulations to you Allegra on being awarded this prestigious prize.
One Team, One Dream!
The Whitsunday Regional Council has a big vision!
It was wonderful to catch up with Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor, Ry Collins, at Queensland Parliament to advocate on behalf of our region. I thank Ry for his support and hard work championing the priorities for our great community. I look forward to continuing to deliver for the Whitsundays!
Small Steps 4 Hannah Foundation
Five years ago, Hannah Clarke and her three beautiful children were murdered in one of the most horrific acts of domestic violence this state, and nation, has ever seen. On May 26th, we will make coercive control a criminal offence in Queensland. This month, I spent time with Hannah’s family planting trees in her memorial garden. I would like to pay tribute to the incredible work of Hannah’s parents and their family through the Small Steps 4 Hannah Foundation. So much work still lies ahead and we all have a role to play.
North Queensland Spirit
Earlier this month, that famous North Queensland spirit and resilience was on show once again during the floods. Thank you to all of the emergency services personnel, Ergon Energy crews and the ADF for working tirelessly to help those impacted get back on their feet. When I visited the Hinchinbrook Shire, I was also struck by the community spirit of residents and business owners, stepping up to help each other out.
While the Whitsundays was not as badly affected as further north, Disaster Loans have been activated if you are in need. For further information, follow this link to the Qld Government Website.
Parliament News
Just like we promised before the election, the Crisafulli Government has delivered on our 100 Day Plan. We’re delivering a Fresh Start for Queensland.
Key milestones in the 100 Day Plan:
Passing the Making Queensland Safer Laws, including adult crime, adult time.
Abolishing stamp duty for first homebuyers on new builds.
Re-establishing The Bruce Highway Advisory Council. The council has already met for the first time and will advise the Crisafulli Government on the challenges, opportunities, and investment priorities of Queensland’s most important highway.
Read the completed 100 Day Plan here: www.qld.gov.au
Backing the Future Grants
Closing Monday, 17th March
For more information, and to apply, visit https://vfff.org.au/backing-the-future/
Skilling Queenslanders for Work Initiative
Closing Thursday, 27th March.
For more information and to apply, visit: Skilling Queenslanders for Work.
Community Road Safety Education Grants
Closing Monday, 31st March.
For more information, and to apply, visit www.tmr.qld.gov.au/roadsafetygrants.
Have Your Say and win a Weber Q!
I’m asking Mackay and Whitsunday residents to take a moment to complete my 30-Second Survey so I can hear your concerns and advocate for what's important to you and our region.
Thank you to everyone who has completed my 30 second survey to date.
I encourage those who haven't, to jump on and tell me what's important. It literally only takes 30 seconds and could WIN YOU A NEW WEBER!
I always like to support local, family businesses, so was happy to stop by Airlie Beach Betta to collect the latest Weber Q+ for our Have Your Say survey. (Notice it’s in a fabulous shade of LNP blue?!) Thank you to Marcus, Nicole and Toby Craig…owners of one of our wonderful local, family operated businesses here in the Whitsundays.
