The Sarina Hospital on Brewers Road has officially opened its doors, marking a milestone in healthcare accessibility for the region. Health Minister Shannon Fentiman, who attended the inauguration, emphasised the significance of the upgraded facilities, including an expanded emergency department, larger consultation rooms, and a purpose-built rehabilitation facility with a spacious gym.
"It's got more beds, an expanded emergency department, a rehab gym, and new staff accommodation," Minister Fentiman said.
"We're proud to announce that the new Sarina Hospital is the first rural hospital in Queensland to be fully digital, using the ieMR digital medical system," she added. "This innovative digital infrastructure replaces traditional paper patient charts, enhancing communication between departments and hospitals and improving overall patient care."
Executive Director Public Health and Rural Services, Terry Johnson, praised the Sarina project team for their dedication in ensuring a smooth transition. "This is an exciting time for our Sarina Hospital staff who have done an amazing job in preparing for this transition," Ms. Johnson commented.
The opening of the new Sarina Hospital represents a significant step forward in delivering quality healthcare closer to home. With its modern facilities and cutting-edge digital infrastructure, the hospital is poised to meet the evolving healthcare needs of the community. The ceremony also heralded plans for the redevelopment of the former Sarina Hospital site at 1 Hospital Street. Minister Fentiman announced a further $10.4 million investment to transform the former building into a long-stay health facility. Set to commence in May 2024 and scheduled for completion by mid-2025, this redevelopment aims to bolster healthcare capacity in the region.

‍

Health Minister Shannon Fentiman (centre) was at the official opening of Sarina’s new hospital on Brewers Road. Photo supplied

‍

To celebrate the incredible 19-year journey of Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank, we are hosting a Celebration of Community Anniversary Dinner. Together, let's acknowledge our shared achievements and toast to continued collaboration for many years to come supporting our community.

Join us for an unforgettable evening on 8 June 2024, at the Bob Wood Cultural Hall in Sarina. Doors open at 5:30pm for an event filled with style. In semi-formal attire, anticipate delicious food crafted by Sinful Kitchen, featuring welcome canapés and a two-course dinner. The bar will be stocked with beverages to complement your evening. Tickets are $90 per person, with RSVPs requested by 12 May 2024. Gather your friends, colleagues, or community group as tables of 8 are available for reservation. Let's join forces to celebrate what’s great about where we live and the vibrant essence of our community!

Featuring Shane Webcke as our keynote speaker - a true example of community leadership and resilience. From sports to farming, family life to business, his life story, vividly told in his autobiography "Warhorse," reflects his unwavering commitment to safety advocacy, because of the tragic loss of his father to a workplace incident.

In "Warhorse", Shane shares the highs and lows of his football career and farm management, alongside the profound impact of personal loss. Through his experiences, he emphasises the importance of resilience and community support.

Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate this milestone for the Community Bank Sarina, book your tickets today at bit.ly/communitydinner2024

‍

The Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Foundation (QATSIF) extends a warm congratulations to students from Sarina State High School, who have now joined an outstanding collective of 4290 QATSIF students.

QATSIF provides educational scholarships to assist Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. The foundation also funds $500 each semester across Years 11 and 12 to assist with essential educational costs such as school fees, uniforms, excursions, subject levies and VET courses etc. The foundation aims to support students on a pathway to success despite financial constraints.
The 16th Round of QATSIF Scholarships is set to open in May, presenting another opportunity for eligible Year 10 and 11 students across Queensland to apply.
Schools will receive application forms, and interested students and parents are encouraged to talk with their school about applying for a QATSIF Scholarship.

Congratulations to these Sarina State High School students who are now collectively part of 4,290 other QATSIF students

Sarina Student Receives $5,000 QCoal Bursary For Uni

Introducing Emily Wright, the recipient of a $5,000 bursary from the QCoal Foundation to pursue her studies in Education at JCU: James Cook University, Australia.
Hailing from Sarina, Emily demonstrates a profound dedication to enhancing education in rural and regional communities.
She recognises the pivotal role of educational opportunities in fostering resilience within Queensland's regional and remote areas. The Foundation shares Emily's sentiment wholeheartedly and extends sincere congratulations to her on this achievement.
This year, in addition to its annual $30,000 scholarship, the Foundation has awarded three additional $5,000 bursaries to deserving students for their studies at JCU.

Emily Wright, recipient of $5,000 bursary from the QCoal Foundation to pursue her studies

‍

In just 24 hours, Eva, a tiny, frightened kitten, has shown a remarkable, yet rapid transformation in character and health after arriving at Mackay Pet Rescue Inc.
On arrival, Eva was extremely lethargic and weighed only 364 grams, raising high concerns among the staff and volunteers, which prompted preparations to implement fading kitten protocols - a last resort for kittens in critical condition.
Despite her chronological age of five-weeks-old, she remained the size of a three-week-old kitten, highlighting an alarming development issue.
Eva's turnaround since arriving at Mackay Pet Rescue Inc has been astonishing to see for both the rescue team and locals alike. Instead of shutting down in fear, she is now ‘full of happy beans’ and joyously exploring her surroundings. The stark contrast from her state just a day prior speaks volumes about the dedication and care she has received from the staff and volunteers at the rescue organisation.
Although she is currently thriving, Eva's journey is far from over. Despite her improved condition, she still has significant milestones to achieve in terms of her health and development. As she continues to grow under the loving care of Mackay Pet Rescue Inc, close monitoring remains essential to ensure she reaches milestones successfully.
When she has attained the necessary levels of health and strength will she be deemed ready for pre-adoption, where she can continue her journey towards a bright and promising future in the loving care of a new family.

Showcasing the remarkable transformation, Mackay Pet Rescue Inc posted to Facebook, in awe, “Look at the difference 24 hours in care makes.

“This is another fantastic save.”

‍

Image of little Eva, frightened and weak vs her 24-hour healthy and happy transformation in care. Images sourced from Mackay Pet Rescue Inc (Facebook).

‍

If it’s pink, you are in luck, and tonight is your night to shine.

Tonight is a massive night for sporting fans in Mackay. It’s a night to get your pink on and have some loud fun at Mackay Basketball on Juliet Street because our top-level competition, the NBL1 North comp starts up, and tonight is the night you don’t want to miss.

Our Meteors and Meteorettes start their 2024 campaign against Townsville, and we want to fill the stadium, make more noise than ever before, and start the year off in style.

We’ve got a stack of great players coming back for this season including Chelsea Brook and Samantha Haiby for the Meteorettes, and Todd Blanchfield and Emmanuel Malou for the Meteors, so you know it’s going to be a star-studded year of fun at Candlestick Park!

If you’ve never been to a game before, just think of a big room, lots of music, heaps of fun, a basketball game to watch, and a great night to be had. That’s what this season will be and more. I reckon we’ve got what it takes to take the title this year, but we need you to join us.

I’ll be the crazy one on the microphone having some fun with you in the crowd, so I reckon you’re mad if you don’t come along.

Tonight is also a wonderful night to come down, because it’s a pink night fundraiser for the McGrath Foundation so they can get more breast care nurses on the ground in the Mackay region. We have two, but we need more.

So tonight, will be a pink night, with pink hair, pink shirts for sale, raffle tickets, pink basketballs, pink players jersey’s being auctioned after the games with all funds going to help the McGrath Foundation do the great work, they continue to provide many women battling this horrible disease.

Over the years we’ve had Jason Borg, legend of the Meteors come dressed in a pink wig! There’s even been local superstar Graeme Connors, adorned with pink singing our national anthem. That’s all been done in the past. What will happen tonight? We are only hours away.

Plus, the ladies are playing for the annual Shelley Rutland Memorial Trophy as this Mackay – Townsville rivalry continues.

I hope to see you down there tonight for a great night of fun. I may even wear my pink suit again!

You can join Rob Kidd from 5am weekday mornings on 4MK 1026 AM in Mackay and Proserpine, 91.5FM in Airlie Beach or just ask your smart speaker to play 4MK on iHeartRadio!

‍

You don’t hear the term “Chinaman” much these days.
It was fairly common some decades ago in Australia and you used to hear it in Hollywood Westerns, usually describing some poor old pony-tailed gold-fossicker from the Orient.
It was a dismissive term with racist undertones/overtones and has largely disappeared from the language.
Serious cricket fans will also be familiar with the term “chinaman”, a word formerly used to describe a “googly” or “wrong-un” delivered by a left-arm spin bowler.
The “chinaman” has disappeared from cricket commentary due to the same racial aspect that has driven it from more general use. Unfortunately, the loss of the word means there doesn’t seem to be a simple word to label that specific cricket delivery, so they need to come up with something new.
The fishing community does not seem willing to make the same sacrifice and the Chinaman fish lives on in the vernacular of that politically incorrect group of renegades.
Of course, other words and terminology have been lost, removed or simply disappeared from the English language, generally, and Australian English specifically.
Most of the words are racist and are associated with terrible racial practices. Our language has evolved and many words are, rightly, no longer used.
It becomes more controversial when the names of consumer products are changed as corporations avoid controversy associated with racist, sexist or homophobic terms.
Witness the controversy over the change of name from Coon cheese despite the name not having any connection with the racist term. Cheer cheese just isn’t the same.
Other product names have disappeared: Red Skins are now called Red Rippers, Chicos are Cheekies and, as for Fags … well they were a disaster on several levels; homophobic lollies that promoted smoking. They’re now called Fads and no longer have the distinctive red tip.
People will have their views about name changes and there is a constant tussle between the politically correct and those who resist PC moves.
But there are other traditional Aussie words and phrases that are simply disappearing because they have gone out of fashion.
Witness rascal, sheila, strewth, cobber … common words you hardly hear any more. Larrikin is hanging in there but is seriously under threat.
While I like those words because they are part of our character and are essential to understanding our culture, the real estate industry is full of words and terminology that have had their day and should be quietly put out of their misery.
There are the classics: “Renovator’s Delight”,  which is putting a positive spin on a property that is a terminal disaster, an unlivable junkyard; “Cute”, which means it is an amazingly small house with no room for visitors; “Charming Cottage”,  which tells you it is an old-fashioned little place that is overdue for an update, “Location, Location, Location”, which tells you it is a property with very little going for it in terms of features and space and is possibly situated on a busy road but it is in a central part of town.
The list goes on; something is “cosy” not small, a bathroom is “fully functional” not extremely basic and unrenovated, and I imagine a “family friendly estate” is one of those ones where the neighbours don’t turn up at your door-step wanting to kill your kids but instead say: “Strewth cobber, I’ve got a sheila and a cuppla billy lids of me own”.

‍

Kucom Theatre recently welcomed a new management committee last month on Tuesday March 26 at its AGM.
Outgoing President Bronwyn Grannall paid tribute to two valued Kucom members; Life Member and past President Joe Clutterbuck, and former Patron and Honorary Member Kevin Casey, both of whom passed away within the past few months.
2023 Committee members were recognised for their hard work and dedication during the year along with the individual donors and corporate sponsors who had made it possible for Kucom to purchase and install the new retractable seating system.
Kucom Theatre is delighted to announce that Mayor Greg Williamson took over as Kucom Patron after Kevin Casey retired in 2020 and he has now been confirmed as Patron for the upcoming year.
Kucom’s next production is a psychological thriller by Constance Cox, The Murder Game, directed by Maureen Coleman. The cast includes Dennis Rozekrans, Carolyn Roche, Michael Brennan and Lani Seaton.
The Murder Game opens on Thursday 11 April for a two-week season, with performances on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings at 7.30pm and a matinee at 2pm on Sunday 14 April.
Bookings can be made at https://events.humanitix.com/the-murder-game
Kucom’s Festival of Arts Fringe event will be The Appleton Ladies’ Potato Race, by Australian playwright Melanie Tait, directed by Luana Royle, followed in October by David Williamson’s Family Values, directed by Kristyn Everett.
For more information, please visit the Kucom Theatre Facebook page.

Front row: Maureen Coleman (President), Jayne Royal (Vice President), Asta Ryan
Back row: Tessa King (Treasurer), Hayley Long, James Hunter
Inset: Carolyn Roche (Secretary). Photo supplied

‍

The winner of the 2024 BMA River 2 Reef Ride Youth Art Competition was the talented Naiya Luczynski from Moranbah State High School. Her captivating design, inspired by the diverse landscapes of Mackay, won the hearts of both event followers and the community.

Alongside Naiya, finalists Amelia Webber from Holy Spirit College Mackay and Abbie Boulton from Sarina State High School were also recognised for their exceptional designs.

Naiya shared her inspiration behind the design, stating, "My design is inspired by the beauty and diverse landscapes of Mackay. Where community seeks connection, not only to others but also nature. Where people, including our cyclists, seek adventure and get immersed in local beauty.

In addition, the BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival proudly announces that it has raised over $50,000 in 2023 for its two local beneficiaries, RACQ CQ Rescue and Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay.

The annual cycling festival took place on 7 and 8 October 2023 and attracted participants from across the region, all pedalling for a cause. The funds raised will be directly contributed to support the critical services provided by RACQ CQ Rescue, a vital aeromedical rescue service, and Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay, an organisation dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities through sports and recreational activities. 

Linda Murry, General Manager of BMA’s (BHP Mitsubishi Alliance) Hay Point Coal Terminal, expressed her pride in both the jersey design as well as the community's efforts and the impact they have made.

"The BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival has raised over $50,000 for our local beneficiaries in 2023.

"Naiya's design beautifully encapsulates the spirit of the Mackay region, showcasing its natural beauty and sense of community.

“We are thrilled to see her talent recognised and are proud to have her design featured on this year's BMA River 2 Reef Ride Cycling Jersey.

“BMA is deeply committed to supporting the well-being of our local community, local events, and not-for-profit organisations in the region.”

RACQ CQ Rescue provides critical aeromedical services to the community, ensuring that those in need receive rapid and efficient medical assistance, while Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay empowers individuals with disabilities to engage in physical activities and improve their overall well-being.  

Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay’s Program Coordinator Peter Sumptor said valuable donations will go towards coordinating and facilitating recreation activities both in and out of the Mackay region for their athletes.

“Activities such as supporting local disabled athletes in the Wheelchair Basketball Team, the "Mackay Machines", to attend and participate in wheelchair basketball tournaments outside of Mackay, as well as support our local programs such as the Wheelchair Dancers, "Strictly Wheelchair" and Friday Fun sport-based games and socialising,” says Peter.

The BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival has become a flagship event in the region, promoting community spirit, health, and charitable giving.

2024 BMA River 2 Reef Ride Sponsors, Youth Artist Finalists and representatives from RACQ CQ Rescue and Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay. Image supplied
Youth Art Finalist and Winner: Naiya Lucynski’s cycling jersey design. Image Supplied
Amelia Webber and Abbie Boulton were also recognised for their outstanding designs. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
The BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival proudly announces that it has raised over $50,000 in 2023 for its two local beneficiaries, RACQ CQ Rescue and Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay.

‍

By Hannah McNamara

On May 18, a candle lighting vigil will be held, in honour and remembrance of the lives of those who were devastatingly taken in an abrupt act of domestic and family violence.

Broken Ballerina Inc will hold the special event at Eimeo Surf club by the beach, commencing from 5pm, gathering locals, supporters and survivors alike to pay respects to the innocent lives that were cut short in an attempt to raise awareness of the rising issue.

Broken Ballerina Inc is a non-for-profit charitable organisation, founded by Jules Thompson who is a powerhouse advocate in the community. Her realism and determination for change in the matter of domestic violence acts as a blueprint to the community after she fled from multiple life threating situations in her own experiences, which has led her to be a current supporting voice for many.

With first-hand knowledge on the subject of domestic violence, Jules uses her past experiences to uplift and support those who are going through similar situations. Her ability to constantly provide for individuals and families in desperate need of compassion and safety is what makes Broken Ballerina Inc so vital in the community.

Founder of Broken Ballerina Inc, Jules said, “We wish to acknowledge the women, men and children who have been victims of domestic homicide in this past year.

“Come and join us to pay tribute to those who lost their lives due to another person’s immaturity, insecurity and who chose not to respect nor value their victims right to live.

“Please lock this important date into your calendar, we hope to see you all there.”

There will be guest speakers sharing their insights and experiences on the night, followed by a candle lighting ceremony to commemorate the list of precious souls who were brutally murdered in the act of domestic and family violence.

This event is FREE to the public, featuring local favourites, Mango Junction who will play live throughout the evening with food and drinks also available.

Whilst this event can be overwhelming to attend for some, it is crucial to remember the importance of coming together, listening to the raw stories of survivors and sharing your experiences with others, in light that you are not alone and there is help and hope for your future.

If you are in need of support or you would like to donate, please visit www.brokenballerina-inc.com.au - or call 000 in an immediate emergency.

What: Candle lighting vigil
Where: Eimeo Surf Club
When: Saturday, May 18, from 5pm

Light a candle by the beautiful ocean side view as we commemorate the lives of those tragically taken due to domestic violence
Broken Ballerina committee members Jules and Pete Thompson, Maree Sturdy, Hannah McNamara and Sgt Rowena Lacey with Whitsundays MP Amanda Camm at last year’s Candle Lighting Vigil

‍

Sarina Sugar Shed. Photos by The Wilde Collective

‍

The next phase of the exciting Woodlands District Park project in Andergrove is about to begin.
Vassallo Constructions on behalf of Mackay Regional Council, will start construction on phase two of the Woodlands District Park project in mid-April, weather permitting. 

The first phase of stage one has recently been completed and included drainage improvements, path construction barbecue facilities and lighting. 

Phase two will see a 300-metre multipurpose track and public toilets installed, along with associated landscaping. 

Mayor Greg Williamson said this project would transform Woodlands District Park into a sought-after destination for leisure and social activities, especially among residents living in Andergrove and Beaconsfield.
“Woodlands Track will cater for those wanting to enjoy a relaxing walk, bike ride or jog, or something more adventurous like scootering, skateboarding or roller blading,” Mayor Williamson said.

“It will also be the perfect place for parents to teach their children how to ride a bike or scooter,” he said.

“Council is committed to improving the liveability of our region for residents and projects like this are an essential step in achieving that goal.

“We’re also looking forward to starting work on the next phase of this project once the construction of Woodlands Track is complete, with the design for an exciting all-abilities playground currently under way.”
Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert said the Miles Government was supporting the project through funding from the Works for Queensland (W4Q) program.
“Phase one of the Woodlands District Park project has delivered fantastic new recreational facilities for Mackay locals and the Miles Government is pleased to be continuing to provide support for the project’s upcoming second phase,” Mrs Gilbert said.
“Since it began in 2016, W4Q has provided more than $42 million to support Mackay Regional Council to deliver projects such as the Woodlands upgrade.
“The Queensland Government continues to support regional infrastructure through W4Q, investing a total of $1.1 billion, including $300 million committed for the upcoming 2024-27 funding round.”
Woodlands Track is expected to be completed in late June, weather permitting.

Minor noise disturbances are expected from 6.30am to 6.30pm, Monday to Friday, as part of this project. Some weekend work may also be required.

‍

Queenslanders can now book in for a free flu vaccination ahead of the 2024 flu season. From 1 January to 24 March, there have been more than 7,000 flu cases reported, with 713 admitted to hospital. 

To combat this, the State Government is backing free flu vaccinations in 2024, as part of a $40 million commitment to ease pressure on hospital emergency departments this flu season.

The peak season for influenza varies from year to year, but typically starts in May and lasts until around October, with most cases typically recorded in August.

Pharmacy Guild National President Professor Trent Twomey says Australians should get ahead of the flu season and get their vaccination now.

“The flu season typically runs from May to October,” Professor Twomey said.
 
“However, flu vaccines for the 2024 season are available now in community pharmacies across Australia.
 
“The state government is providing the flu vaccine to all residents aged 6 months and over for free until September 30,” he added.
 
Queensland Premier, Steven Miles said, “Our free flu vaccination program is an easy way to get yourself covered ahead of winter without the barrier of cost, and has helped almost one million people get protected so far.

“It’s our hope that all eligible Queenslanders, especially the vulnerable, roll up their sleeve and get vaccinated. It’s the best way to protect yourself and those around you this flu season.”

This program is an extension of those that ran during the 2022 and 2023 seasons and saw 912,000 Queenslanders take up the offer.

Influenza vaccine uptake dropped significantly in 2023 compared to the year prior, with just a third of Queenslanders being vaccinated against the flu. Flu vaccination uptake was particularly low last year among children aged five years and under.

Minister for Health, Mental Health and Ambulance Services Shannon Fentiman expresses the importance of reducing admissions during flu seasons, stating, “The launch of this year’s free flu campaign follows the free Meningococcal B vaccine for eligible children.

“We hope the combination of these free immunisation campaigns will lead to reduced hospital presentations and admissions this cold and flu season.”

The 2024 Free Flu Vaccination Program, concluding on 30 September 2024, aims to encourage more Queenslanders to get vaccinated, while putting money back into the pockets of families who do not qualify for a free vaccination under the Commonwealth’s National Immunisation Program (NIP).

Acting Chief Health Officer Dr Catherine McDougall encourages “every Queenslander to take advantage of a free flu vaccination, as this may also help break the chain of transmission.”

‍

We slap them on our wrists, clip them to our chests, or weave them into our workouts. Wearable fitness trackers and smartwatches have become a ubiquitous part of the Aussie fitness scene. But beyond counting steps and monitoring heart rate, how can we truly harness the power of these devices to smash our fitness goals?

‍
Level Up Your Training: Many wearables offer advanced metrics like VO2 Max (a measure of cardiovascular fitness) and recovery time. Use these to personalize your workouts. Push yourself during high-intensity intervals when your VO2 Max is high, and prioritise rest days when recovery time lengthens.
Embrace the Coaching Cue: Smartwatches with built-in GPS can track your running pace and distance. Utilise these features to create targeted training programs. Set yourself a goal pace or distance, and let your watch keep you on track.
Sleep for Success: Most wearables track sleep patterns. Use this data to identify areas for improvement. Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night, and adjust your pre-sleep routine based on your wearable's insights. A well-rested body is a high-performing body.
Find Your Fitness Tribe: Many fitness apps connect with wearables, allowing you to compete with friends or join virtual challenges. This social element can boost motivation and keep you accountable.
Wearable tech isn't magic, but it is a powerful tool. By understanding its features and using the data effectively, we can transform our wearables from passive monitors to active partners on our fitness journeys. So, ditch the step-counting obsession and delve deeper into the world of wearable tech to unlock your full fitness potential.

‍

North Queensland's wet season paints the rainforest a lush green, but it also brings an unwelcome guest – ticks. These tiny bloodsuckers can transmit serious illnesses like Rickettsia and Queensland tick typhus. With increased tick activity during the wet months, here's how to stay safe while exploring those tropical trails.

‍
Become Tick-Savvy: Not all ticks carry diseases, but it's best to err on the side of caution. Learn to identify common North Queensland tick species. The paralysis tick, with its reddish-brown body, is particularly concerning.
Dress for Protection: Long, loose clothing and insect repellent containing DEET are your best defence. Tuck your pants into your socks and consider tucking your shirt into your pants for added protection.
The Post-Walk Patrol: After your rainforest adventure, perform a thorough tick check. This includes your entire body, especially warm, moist areas like behind the ears, armpits, and groin.
Know the Signs: If you find a tick attached, remove it carefully with fine-tipped tweezers, grasping it as close to the skin as possible. Be aware of potential symptoms like fever, headache, and a rash around the bite site. If you experience any of these, see your doctor immediately.
Early detection is key: By following these preventative measures and being vigilant about tick checks, you can minimize your risk of tickborne illnesses. Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a happy and healthy wet season exploring the beauty of Mackay’s rainforests.

‍

Bowen Orbital Spaceport was officially opened last week, with dignitaries gathered to mark this significant moment in space industry history.

With final approvals and permits pending, Gilmour Space Technologies are closer than ever to an official launch date which will see this Queensland-based company become the first in Australia to launch a locally made rocket into orbit.

Bowen is now one of only three dedicated launch sites globally, chosen for its precise location, 20 degrees south of the equator, ideal for quick efficient transport to space.

‍

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor-elect Ry Collins, James and Adam Gilmour Directors of Gilmour Space Technologies, Deputy Premier Cameron Dick and Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP. Photo supplied.

“The Sky Is No Longer The Limit!”

It’s been an incredible ride for the Gilmour brothers, James and Adam, who have, over the last 10 years propelled their grassroots Gold Coast based company into the largest space tech company in Australia, now valued at $605 million.

“It is a matter of great satisfaction that within a relatively short space of time, starting out with less than a dozen people, we have grown to be the largest space technology employer in Australia, devoted solely to the manufacturing of rockets and satellites.

“And at the present time employing approximately 194 full time employees,” said James Gilmour.

“We are on the eve of making Australian history at the Bowen Orbital Spaceport!”

Gilmour Space Technologies constructed its 23 metre long, 35 tonnes rocket named Eris in the Gold Coast and it has since been brought up to Bowen where it is being assembled.

From April 29, the Bowen site will be ready for the launch, pending final permits and last-minute testing.

The next significant milestone will be when the rocket is turned into a vertical position which is a symbolically exciting moment for the team.

“We have for so long asked people to imagine what it will look like, now they will actually be able to see it which will bring home the significance and importance if what we’re actually trying to do here,” said James Gilmour.

It is expected that Eris will be launched into low earth orbit within the next two months, its ‘payload’ a G-Sat satellite which will fast track enhanced technology road maps.

Gilmour Space Technologies is working with the Australian Defence Force for one of its early launches.

Considered to be the Fed-Ex of space transport, the rocket is designed to transport items into space and while it is only a one-way trip for Eris, there is already a second rocket in construction, serial number 002, which is expected to be completed in six to nine months.

Our Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox MP, has been a huge supporter of this project since he first worked with the Gilmour brothers in the planning stages when he was Mayor of the Whitsunday Regional Council.

Since then, he has stayed connected and been a great advocate, eagerly awaiting the big day when Bowen will become the site of the first rocket launch in the country.

“This is good for my electorate and great for Australia!” said Mr Willcox.

“I’ve been down to their head office and witnessed their tech first-hand – it’s incredible! They’ve invented a propulsion system which is world leading and now there is a whole industry being created here that offers technical, higher paid jobs, which is a real boost for the community.”

‍

Dignitaries and stakeholders celebrating the official opening last week. Photo supplied
Bowen Orbital Spaceport. Photo supplied
Eris is 23 metres long and weighs 35 tonnes. Photo supplied

‍

Space Tech Company
Immersed In Region

Investing in both the community and the Whitsunday way of life, James Gilmour is in the process of moving to Bowen and looks forward to continuing to build his team in the region.

“At the moment we have between eight and 10 employees based locally and we are looking to increase that by the end of the year,” he explained.

“We are focussed on the intention to work with the community and want local businesses to grow with us. So far, we have injected well over $10 million into the community and have worked with many local manufacturers. We’ve also developed supply chains and have ongoing operations within the region.”

Another central part of the Gilmour brothers’ ethos is connecting the country with the sky and since the company’s inception they have worked closely with the local Juru Traditional Landowners.

“The site has its foundation on the land of the Juru people and acknowledging this has been fundamentally important since day one,” said Mr Gilmour.

“We don’t want to be remembered for our words but for our deeds.”

To reflect this, Juru Elder Trevor Prior conducted a smoking ceremony to welcome guests at the official opening of the Bowen Orbital Spaceport last week.

There is also a ‘mission patch’, which is a sign on the west side of the main building, which depicts the theme “from country to sky”, respectfully acknowledging the Juru.

With the launch set to take place within the coming months, community members will be able to witness the moment firsthand from several local vantage points.

These include Flagstaff Hill, Queens Beach and Greys Bay.

“Safety is a top priority during a launch campaign,” explained Mr Gilmour.

“We’re going to have safety zones in place during the launch and public information will soon be available on our website with viewing locations and safety guides.”

‍

Juru Elder Trevor Prior conducted the smoking ceremony at the official opening of the Bowen Orbital Spaceport last week. Photo supplied

‍