At Home In Our Region

Whitsunday Auto Group have a Christmas treat for our region, boasting plenty of stock of the 2023 Car of the Year.

Named by Carsales.com.au, the MG4 took out the top spot last week, highlighting the new vehicle for its safety, speed, practical economics, and its unbeatable price point.

Now what makes the MG4 stand apart from the rest?

The MG4 is MG’s first completely electric performance machine, with a 5-star ANCAP safety rating it is extremely reliable with a sleek European design and superior engineering precision.

With a range of seven colours available for all four variants, there is something for everyone.

“This is a powerful machine,” Gary Brenchley, Principal of Whitsunday Auto Group said.

“It can go from zero to 100 kilometres in seconds.”

Being completely electric driven, the MG4 is better suited to the regions where petrol remains costly.

“You can get an entire charge on the MG4 for a maximum of $17 on Grid Charge, and with fast charging at $42 it takes almost no time to get on the road,” Gary explained.

“You can get to Mackay and back on one charge and costing only $17, you can’t beat that!”

With a lower centre of gravity, impressive 50:50 weight distribution, and cutting-edge technology, the MG4 is perfectly equipped for country roads as well as residential city streets, being able to transition seamlessly to any terrain you throw at it.

Director of Content and Editor in Chief of Carsales, Mike Sinclair said, “In terms of assessment, the MG4 successfully fulfils our testing criteria – safety, practicality, and presentation, innovation, and technology, driving performance and cost of new ownership – but more importantly, it’s just a really good car. That its price tag puts new EV ownership within reach of more people is worthy of praise in itself, but the fact that the car is truly engaging and genuinely enjoyable to drive is the MG4’s real achievement.”

And don’t miss the sleek and luxurious interior, with comfortable and ergonomic seating, powerful air conditioning, completely and extensive entertainment system, with CarPlay and keyless start and electric parking brake.

Whitsunday Auto Group is offering comprehensive finance and insurance options, extensive vehicle servicing and hands-on support, you can drive away with this machine in moments, in the colour of your choosing, at a price you can’t beat.

For the base model variant of the MG4, you are looking at $41,165 drive away, with other variants upping the comfort with a wireless phone charger in the centre console, steering wheel heating, 360 degree camera, and two level boot floor.

The MG4 will be available to test drive, from their Bowen Dealership, and in Cannonvale, with the MG4 taking host in Whitsunday Plaza from today till Monday.

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After a three-year hiatus, the annual Bowen Family Fishing Classic and Wet Weekend is back and better than ever.

Planning this mammoth weekend of non-stop fishing is Russ McCabbin, who is excited to see the event return.

“Everything is back on track, and this will be an unbelievable weekend,” he said.

The event takes place at the Bowen Foreshore and features a fantastic fishing competition with two chances to win big money in each category.

With 14 different species of fish on the competition list, there is something for everyone, and two specialty prize pools per category.

The participant with the heaviest catch will be rewarded and there will also be a prize for whoever’s catch is closest to the ‘secret’ weight, so you never know if you’ll win big.

Entrants will also be divided into age categories to keep it fair.

While the fishing is the main drawcard, so too is the exciting family entertainment.

There will be live music from The Crack Up Sisters, Sweet Alibis, and Paul Samuels, plus a free dance lesson, amusement park, fireworks, Dash for Cash, and even a sandcastle building competition.

With so much on offer and prizes donated from local businesses worth a good chunk of change, “Everyone will be walking out with a big smile!”

Over previous years, the event attracted over 10,000 people to Bowen and organisers are expecting big numbers of visitors once again.

“This year will be the 29th year of the event,” Russ said.

“And we even have special guest Barefoot Fisherman, Hodgie, (David Hodge) coming on Sunday for the weigh in and a few competitions.”

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said it was fantastic that the Bowen Family Fishing Classic was being held again this year.

“This event has not been held since 2019 and we are very pleased that the organisers are making it happen again in 2023,” she said.

“It will provide a great economic boost for Bowen and attracts people from the surrounding areas.

“It is great for all ages and the community really gets behind it. It is expected to be a fun-filled weekend and it is right at the beginning of the school holidays, so we are expecting a bumper weekend in Bowen, right before Christmas.”

WHAT: Bowen Family Fishing Classic and Wet Weekend

WHERE: Front Beach Esplanade and Bowen Soundshell

WHEN: Saturday 9 December and Sunday December 10

TICKETS: Available through various businesses around Bowen, including Mitre 10, Bowen Outdoors, and Grandview Liquor Barn.

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the fishing event of the year is back on! Photos supplied

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T8T Fest Wraps Up For 2023

The fifth T8T Fest has wrapped up for Bowen, but the work isn’t over yet!

For the Tait family who organise T8T Fest, the festival acts as a reunion and special celebration of life for their much-loved family member Nicholas Tait, who passed away in 2016 from Melanoma.

At the age of 36, Nicholas was diagnosed with melanoma, and 16 short weeks later, he sadly passed away.

“And in 2017, we held a reunion for everyone who knew Taity,” explained Amanda Tait, Nicholas’ eldest sister.

“We held it at the Grand View Hotel and held some raffles for the Australia Melanoma Research Foundation, and from there, the event just got bigger and bigger.”

For the 2023 event, the T8T Fest saw over 500 walk through the doors.

“From what started as a few ideas thrown around by friends and family to this massive event, it’s great. Year on year, it keeps building momentum.”

The 2023 event welcomed four Bowen local music acts, Head Rush, Cameron Bartlett, Damon Leary and up-and-comers Gleezus, and Airlie Beach musicians The Fox.

“We try and support Bowen bands, because it gives the local guys a platform to perform at someplace not a pub,” Amanda explained.

While Nicholas was a fan of heavy rock music, the event usually has a mixed genre of music, so that everyone can enjoy the festivities.

“Not this year though! Quite a lot of the acts was heavy rock, but everyone had a great time.”

With 100 per cent of the proceeds going to the Australia Melanoma Research Foundation, the T8T Fest remains in the honour and memory of Nicholas, a Bowen born and bred local whose legacy remains strong.

“A lot of people come to T8T Fest because of Nicholas, they were his friends or family, but people also just come for the music. Others come just because it’s a charity event and want to support it.”

Amanda and the organisers would also like to thank the sponsors of the event.

To learn more about T8T Fest or to support their cause, follow their Facebook page.

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Photo credit: Ashlee Webster

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Dear Kaylem,

I know you will hate this, but I just had to do it!

Dad and I are so proud of you and the amazing young man you have grown up to be.

As this chapter closes and a new one begins, know that no matter what it brings Dad and I will always be here.

Love Mum & Dad xxx

Ps. Rent will be due next week! 😊

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Photoshoot Location: Villa Botanica / Private Home / Shute Harbour

Photography by: Norina Jane and R Jean Photography

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Year 12 Students Mark End Of An Era With School Formals

Year 12 students from around the region celebrated the end of their school journeys this week, the countless festivities marked the end of an era, but also commemorated each individual’s achievements from a memorable period in their lives.

Friends united, proud parents watched on with tears in their eyes and entire school communities gathered to wish departing students all the success in life.

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Click the link to view gallery

Whitsunday Christian College

Proserpine State High School

Bowen State High School

‍CongratulationsMille and Kaylem on your graduation

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A musical movement that is aimed at not only raising awareness of our local indigenous culture but also healing the wounds of the past, is alive and singing in the Whitsundays, led by two inspiring local musos.

The collaboration of artists Adrian Thomas and Uncle Harold Bowen has seen indigenous stories translated into meaningful music with heartfelt compassion and true storytelling.

The pair have been working together for several months, Adrian writes the lyrics from the stories Uncle Harold tells and together they create beautiful music that has resonated in the hearts of many.

So far, five songs have been recorded alongside David Hudson, who is one of the best didgeridoo players in Australia, and Yothu Yindi drummer, Ben Hakalitz.

Adrian has spent a lot of time in Melbourne where he was a social worker, heavily involved with helping underprivileged indigenous children live their best life.

“I’ve spent a long time working in Aboriginal communities and I’ve seen firsthand the human rights that are lacking in these communities,” he explained.

“The lack of clean drinking water, the lack of affordable fresh fruit, lack of housing and base level care.”

Adrian has travelled all over the country connecting with indigenous communities and most recently moved down from Cairns to the live in the Whitsundays.

After meeting Harry Bowen, Adrian says he was saddened to hear the story of the Ngaro Gia people who had been displaced from their land many years ago.

The dream time story he was told shows how many indigenous families were killed and only those strong enough to be slaves were saved.

These Ngaro/Gia survivors cut the trees to build Proserpine and after the work was done, they were shipped up north to do the same in Yarrabah and Hopevale.

This pain anguish, but also the pathway to healing and recovery is explored in the music, most notably in the song, “Milbi" which is the lead track of the release.

“It’s a healing journey from what happened early on but also rediscovering and reconnecting with culture and power,” he shared.

“But it is not only the healing of Aboriginal people, it is also the healing of us as colonisers, as white people, of our ancestors who came here and did some really horrible things.”

As part of the musical journey, Adrian is also advocating for a monument or landmark to pay homage to the past, connect the story and offer a place where people can gather to understand and acknowledge our local indigenous’ culture.

At the same time, Adrian and Harold Bowen are also visiting Cannonvale State School next month to share their story and work with students to create a documentary.

They will be accompanied by Vino with Lateo Films, an Australian filmmaker based in Cairns.

During the visit, the trio plan to work with students to share some of the Ngaro/Gia history, play music with them and organise and involve students in a traditional dance workshop.

Once the film has been completed it will be entered into festivals worldwide and following that it is likely the film will end up on a streaming platform or TV.

Bringing voice and volume to the indigenous story, these inspiring local characters are sharing a meaningful cultural dialogue through the purity of song.

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Local inspiring musician, Adrian Thomas. Photo supplied

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The folk event of summer is arriving in the Whitsunday PCYC, checking into Airlie Beach for one night of mammoth music, that will leave the soul replenished and recharged.

The Summer rendition of the Festival of Small Halls is back and featuring headlining acts Assynt and Jackie Marshall, with the evening expected to be music for the soul.

Jackie Marshall is a folk singer-songwriter, with her inspirations stemming from 60s and 70s and western folk and country, jazz, and improvisation. Full of energy and warmth, the audience will be swept away with her fantastic stage presence and gentle atmosphere.

“It's a huge pleasure to be heading out on the road for Small Halls,” said Jackie. “I love being in motion, soaking up the colours of this beautiful country, meeting new people with fascinating stories, and experiencing the joy of performing to intimate audiences in venues rich with the feeling of personal connection. I feel incredibly fortunate to be involved.”

Assynt are Scotland’s own award-winning instrumental folk band, passionately known for their tight-knit fiddle and pipe playing combination.

Itching to present their tunes to audiences across Australia, Assynt noted "We have been looking forward to touring Australia as part of the Small Halls tour for over four years now! A little later than planned due to the pandemic, we are excited to showcase our Scottish music for the Australian audiences and experience the culture in Queensland and Victoria!"

The Festival is proudly supporting Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network and will feature a BBQ style eat street on the night, with all proceeds from the event going towards the suicide prevention charity.

WHAT: Festival of Small Halls

WHERE: PCYC Whitsundays

WHEN: Friday December 1

TICKETS: festivalofsmallhalls.com starting from $10

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Festival of Small Halls is the event of the summer. Image supplied

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Friday 24th Nov

• Paradiso: Mike Duff (7-10pm)

• KC’s: Aaron Saxon (8pm-Late)

• Metropole: Live Music (8pm-Late)

• The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andrew Wishart (7pm-10pm)

• Grand View Hotel: TBC (from 8pm)

Saturday 25th Nov

• The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andrew Wishart (7pm-10pm)

• Airlie Beach Hotel: Dire Straits (2pm-5.30pm)

• Paradiso: Simon Briley (7-10pm)

• KC’s: Retro Joe (8pm-Late)

• Grand View Hotel: Dave Helgi Johan (from 6pm)

Sunday 26th Nov

• Paradiso: Aaron Saxon (1-4pm)

• The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andrew Wishart (7pm-10pm)

• Airlie Beach Hotel: Pink Floyd (2pm- 5.30pm)

• KC’s: TBA (8pm-Late)

• Grand View Hotel: Keiran McCarthy (2pm-5pm)

Monday 27th Nov

• KC’s: Kaedan McCarthy (8pm-Late)

Tuesday 28th Nov

• KC’s: Sam McCann (8pm-Late)

Wednesday 29th Nov

• KC’s: Louisa Taylor (8pm-Late)

Thursday 30th Nov

• Paradiso: Aaron Saxon (6.30pm-9.30pm)

• The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Matt Angell (6.30pm-9.30pm)

• KC’s: Louisa Taylor (8pm-Late)

GRANDVIEW

https://www.grandviewhotelbowen.com.au/whats-on/live-entertainment/

https://www.hotelmetropoleproserpine.com.au/whats-on/

Grandview gigs contact is Chloe

ABH: all acoustic is 7-10pm except Wednesdays & Thurs 6.30 - 9.30pm

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With A Perfect Present From Mackay Music

Whether you're embarking on a musical journey as a novice, searching for your dream instrument as a seasoned professional, or in need of comprehensive event gear, Mackay Music stands as the reliable choice committed to meeting all your musical needs.

With a legacy of twenty-four years in the business, Owner Kelly Cacciola and her team have made Mackay Music a go-to destination for musicians of all ages and skill levels.

The team at Mackay Music boasts a range of expertise, catering to everyone from little kids eager to play the ukulele to school students mastering brass and woodwind instruments, and teenagers ready to rock out with their first electric guitars.

Christmas is a bustling time for the store that offers an extensive range of items from guitars, amps, violins, keyboards, and pianos to harmonicas and percussion instruments, including electronic drum kits.

Kelly stated, “Everyone has different needs and that’s what we’re here for, for them to come in and find what’s best for them.

“They might like the look of something, but it might not really be what’s best for the style of music they’re playing.” You can’t get the ‘hands on’ experience from looking online, you need to come in to feel and play the instrument.

As the holiday season approaches, Mackay Music is offering enticing deals that are sure to strike a chord with music enthusiasts. One popular offer is the Fender Pack, featuring the Squier Sonic Stratocaster, Squier Frontman 10 watt amp, along with accessories like a padded gig bag, 3 metre cable, strap, and picks priced at $529.

The Tanglewood Reunion electric/acoustic guitar is available at a discounted price of $349, a significant $150 in savings.

The mahogany Tanglewood Auld Trinity is another attractive option, now retailing at $399 down from $599. Additionally, the Tanglewood concert-size mahogany ukulele is on sale at $129, marked down from $179.

Mackay Music also offers low-cost shipping, ensuring that customers can access a wide range of instruments and equipment regardless of location. The convenience extends to both online and in-store support, as well as services like guitar and violin restringing and repairs.

To explore Mackay Music's full catalogue, visit their website at www.mackaymusic.com.au or drop by their store at 28 Sydney Street.

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The infamous wall of electric and acoustic guitars at Mackay Music

Pianos, brass and woodwind instruments galore

Bongo drums are a quirky gift idea this Christmas

Photo credit: Sinead Porter

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Get Your Tastebuds Tingling At Mackay Farmers Market

Every Wednesday morning from 6:30am to 10:30am, Mackay comes alive with the Mackay Farmers' Market Inc. at the picturesque Bluewater Quay.

Two years ago, stall holders started the incorporation to continue offering Mackay locals a chance to experience the midweek market. This is your go-to destination for all things fresh and locally sourced, with an abundant array of quality produce and products.

Start your morning right, with a cup of coffee in hand and a choice of delicious foods including dumplings, pies and sausage rolls.

You can explore stalls boasting a wide variety of goods, from fresh milk to artisan sourdough bread, eggs, pure honey, farm-fresh fruits and vegetables, tea and rich coffee blends, a selection of premium meats, pet treats, smoked smallgoods, olive oils, vibrant tropical flowers and plants and eco-friendly beeswax wraps– the Mackay Farmers Market has got it all!

What makes the Mackay Farmers' Market special is their commitment to sustainable living and supporting local growers. By choosing to shop local, you're not only getting the freshest produce but also contributing to the growth of the Mackay community.

Available products are advertised on social media leading up to the event, with produce sourced within a two-hundred kilometre radius of Mackay. Offerings straight from the grower assists in cutting out the big corporations.  

Marketing Manager Loren Vanzella is passionate about her community and local produce, stating: “We are very grateful to our loyal customers for their ongoing support.

“The response to our challenges has been overwhelmingly positive and it’s wonderful to know that what we do makes a difference to so many.”

Some of the stalls welcomed by the market include but are not limited to the Mount Jukes Family Farm, Shore Fresh Seafoods, Venton’s Tropical Blooms, Zelenka Farms and many more.

Don't forget to bring your reusable bags – the market strives for an eco-conscious shopping experience.

Join the flourishing community every Wednesday at the Mackay Farmers Market, to indulge in the joy of shopping fresh, local, and midweek with quality and variety nestled against a beautiful backdrop at Bluewater Quay.

Visit Mackay Farmers’ Market on Facebook or Instagram for the latest information.

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Pure n' Natural Honey

Eungelladale Milk

Zelenka Farms

Vintage Farmhouse Kitchen

Photo credit: Sinead Porter

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The Paxton’s Portrait Prize is in its’ ninth year, this year introducing the Pet Portrait category with entries from talented artists from around the Mackay region.

The event is the brainchild of Lynn Robson and Melissa Larsen, both realising there was really no way for children and students to be able to exhibit their artwork in a local exhibition. This event provides a platform for young artists to show off their creative talents.

The event is themed around the Archibald Prize, with conditions that artworks must be a portrait of someone from Mackay, alive or deceased. It also has to have been created within the past twelve months, using any medium of choice.

The Paxton’s Portrait Prize is all ages inclusive, with Primary School, Secondary School and Open categories. Pieces are hung up on display, with a host of judges to decide the winners.

Teacher and Event Founder Melissa Larsen stated, “Seeing the wonderful community come together and support it, it's just fantastic”.

“People make an effort every year to go and create a work to go into it. The wonderful camaraderie of our Mackay community that gets behind all of this, it's really wonderful to see.”

Councillor Michelle Green had the pleasure of participating in the Paxton’s Portrait Prize as an esteemed judge this year. Michelle commented, “This is where you learn the ropes, and you get a direction to follow your passion.

“If it helps these little creatives go on to be larger creatives and into careers with that creative talent, I think that's what's so amazing about it.”

This year, the event has been held at the Jubilee Community Centre instead of its’ usual location at Paxton’s Warehouse which has enabled the exhibition to stay open for two weeks running until 24th November.

A highlight for the local community is the People’s Choice award for each category, where locals can visit the exhibition and pick their favourite piece.

Congratulations to all of the entrants and winners this year, who are fostering a brilliant array of talent in the local art scene for Mackay.

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The Jubilee Community Centre came alive on judging day for the Paxton’s Portrait Prize

Photo supplied

Sophie Clayton 'On the Surface' Winner of Secondary School category

Ashley Holmes ‘Reading of Prayer’ Winner of Open category

Ryan Masendu ‘Self Portrait’ Winner of Primary School category

Annie Usher ‘Calling Home’ Highly Commended Open category

Photo Credit: Councillor Michelle Green

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Friday 24 November

Friday Night Live Music

Every Friday from 5pm

Join us on Friday’s from 5pm for live music from our local favourites, good food and great company. | Free entry.

Boomerang Hotel

The Radiators (Live)

From 8pm

Get ready to immerse yourself in an unforgettable night of classic hits, high-energy performances, and pure rock ‘n’ roll magic as The Radiators take the stage. | Tickets available at oztix.com.au

Seabreeze Hotel

Mackay Twilight Market

From 5pm to 8:30pm and Saturday 4pm to 8:30pm

Join us in the big shed for a festive evening of merriment with your loved ones. Shop for unique holiday gifts from the many charming market stalls, ran by small local businesses. | $2 adult entry - children under 17 years free of charge.

Mackay Showgrounds

Saturday 25 November

Mackay Showground Markets

Every Saturday from 6am – 10am

Local Produce, Natural products, Seafood, Plants and much more.

Weekly event, held every Saturday. | Free entry.

Mackay Showgrounds

Falun Gong Classes

Every Saturday from 10am

Falun Gong offers you relaxation, meditation, inner peace, and health through movement.

You’re invited to come along and experience a session in the beautiful surroundings of the Botanic Gardens.

Live Music Saturdays

Every Saturday from 2pm – 5pm

Enjoy good tunes and great vibes every Saturday from 2pm. | Free entry.

The Kooyong Hotel

The Wild Sky (Live)

From 6pm

Enjoy good tunes and great vibes. Come along for a great night! | Free entry.

Harrup Park

Sunday 26 November

Laura Frank (Live)

From 3pm to 7pm

Join an unforgettable live performance by talented musician, singer-songwriter, and DIY enthusiast who is known for her chart-topping singles and captivating stage presence. | Free entry.

Seabreeze Hotel

Sunday Bingo

Every Sunday from 7pm

Come along and you could win! | Free entry.

South Leagues Club

Monday 27 November

Full Moon Circle – Breathwork and Meditation

From 5:45pm to 7:30pm

Put down what you are carrying this Full Moon.

Connect with like-minded others in a supportive circle. We will move through a progression of breath work, some gentle movement, sound healing and meditation.

This circle is for you if you are craving more harmony in your life, would like dive deeper into meditation and connect with your breath and body.

Tea and nibbles will be provided. | Tickets at trybooking.com

Mackay CWA Hall

Trivia Night

From 6:30pm – 9pm - Every Monday

Souths Monday Night Trivia just got a whole lot more serious!

Do you have what it takes to take home the jackpot?

Round up your friends and get your geek on!

Sports Bar, Souths Leagues Club

Trivia Night

From 7pm – 9pm - Every Monday

There’s no excuse not to stretch the grey matter as it’s free to play so come along with your mates or we can put you in a team, each team can have 2-7 players.

Registrations from 6.30pm, starts 7pm.

Book your table to avoid disappointment, call (07) 4965 6100.

Centro Restaurant, Magpies Sporting Club

Tuesday 28 November

Baby Bounce

From 9:30am to 10am

The session features nursery rhymes, finger plays and songs. It's never too early to talk, read and tell stories with your child.

Please bring a small blanket for your child. | Free ticketed event, find yours at eventbrite.com.au

Sarina Library

Book Chat for Teens

From 3:30pm to 4:30pm

Drop in and tell us what you like, what you don’t like, what you’re reading, what you have read, what you would like to read.

Chat to others about your best (and worst) reading experiences. For young adults aged 12 to 18 years. | Free ticketed event, find yours at eventbrite.com.au

Gordon White Library

Wednesday 29 November

Teen Shed Mackay Teen Circle

Every Wednesday, 4:00pm to 5:30pm

Teen Circle is a place for all teens in the community to come together. It's a safe space for them to connect, heal and learn from each other. This gathering will be held every Wednesday, all teenagers are welcome to attend. It is a free event, but attendees are asked to register for numbers.

Kutta Mulla Gorinna Special Assistance School

Mackay Farmers’ Market

Every Wednesday, 6:30am to 10:30am

Shop fresh, shop local. The Farmers’ market is a showcase of our region’s amazing produce. Enjoy a morning beside the Pioneer River and buy direct from the farmer.

Bluewater Quay

Sugar City Rock and Roll Mackay Club Wednesday Night Lessons

Every Wednesday, 7:00pm

Why not come along and learn to rock ‘n’ roll in a friendly and fun atmosphere with the Sugar City Rock ‘n’ Rollers Mackay Club? Previous experience is not required. $8 for members and $10 for non-members after that. For further enquiries call 0408 983 911.

58 Macalister St, Mackay

Thursday 30 November

Mackay Riverside Market

Every Thursday, 3:00pm to 7:00pm

Come and meet your local growers, bakers and makers, chill on the lawn listening to some beautiful tunes and grab some delicious dinner and dessert.

Bluewater Quay

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click here to view gallery

The emotional, human side of selling real estate is what makes it interesting, brings value to what we do. It is an important time for people and, as agents, we get to know and help buyers and sellers at a significant point in their lives.

And you get to know all sorts of people; the good, the bad, the powerful, the wounded, the clever, the fastidious, the generous, the not-so generous, the hard-working, the rich, the battlers … and that was just the buyers and sellers of the first house I ever sold. Not really, but you get what I mean.

A few years ago I sold a unit to a lady called Susan Nitz. Susan worked at Coles in Sydney Street and had saved hard to be able to buy her first home, a nice little two-bedroom unit.

Susan was single, in her 50s and lived a simple life; she enjoyed music, loved her cat, had a close and loving bond with her mother and had warm friendships with the customers and colleagues she knew at Coles.

She was a gentle, kind soul who saw the best in everyone and loved to help them. I really enjoyed selling her the property because it was so important to her and she was such a nice person. She had lots of questions and concerns and I was pleased to ease her through it all and hand over the keys to a delighted buyer.

A couple of years later Susan became ill and, sadly, died earlier this year. She was brave and stoic and didn’t tell people what she was going through. Even her mother, Ethel, didn’t know about her illness until its late stages.

Her passing hit Ethel hard. The two of them shared a bond, partly through their love of country music, and had lived together for years. A mother shouldn’t have to bury her daughter. It rips your heart out.

It was left to Ethel to look after Susan’s affairs and a couple of months after she passed away Ethel rang me and asked me to sell the unit I had sold to Susan.

So, I got to know Ethel over the past few months, dropping around to get her to sign listing documents, disclosure statements, contracts and the like. Talking about her life, Susan, the terrible loss and the beautiful memories.

There was a lot of interest in the unit and I sold it to a young woman in her early 20s called Katie. Katie is a warm, energetic, hard-working, optimistic soul from a supportive local family who knew Susan and remember her fondly from shopping at Coles.

Somehow it seems so much better that Katie bought Susan’s unit rather than some investor from down south who needed a positively geared rental to balance out their portfolio of shares and property.

You might think that selling real estate is only about bricks and mortar and money. You would be wrong.

We’ve officially gotten to the time of the year where it’s socially acceptable to get excited for Christmas. With that, Star and Mackay Women’s Services officially launched the 2023 Hamper Drive!

The Hamper Drive will officially run until Friday December 8th, and we are asking businesses, schools and individuals to donate hampers to the Mackay Women's Centre. These can be gathered in a box or washing basket and can include non-perishable food and Christmas gifts or other similar style items.

If you’re in need of some hamper filler ideas I’ve done the hard work for you:                                                

•     Milk

•      Pasta and pasta sauce

•     2 Min Noodles

•     Biscuits

•     Christmas Bon Bons

•     Custard

•     Jelly

•     Pudding or Cake

•     Tin Fruit

•     Tuna

•     Taco Kit

•     Lollies

•     Crisps

•     Tea and Sugar

•     Tinned Veggies

Also, any toy donations will go to children of all ages. Toys or gifts for a variety of ages would be suitable, as would gifts for the mother of these families. Vouchers for movies, Timezone or even the grocery store would be greatly appreciated.

Any hamper donations you collect you can drop directly to the Mackay Women's Services at 418A Shakespeare St, West Mackay. Or get in touch with us at Star to see what we may be able to arrange.

Kaley