Reminder of a ‘ Magnetic attraction’

IT IS easy for North Queensland residents, particularly those who have lived here for a long time, to take for granted what we have in our region.

We live in a part of Australia which has many natural and man- made attractions.

And the region is it at its best at this time of the year — the winter months when locals are rewarded for enduring the humid summers and visitors get the chance to escape colder climes in the south.

If you had forgotten just how unique our region is you should take a look at the new video, focusing on Magnetic Island, produced by Townsville Enterprise and Tourism and Events Queensland.

The high- quality production centres around Maggie resident Melia Hinks with her family, telling of her love of living an idyllic life on the island.

The footage is spectacular and features unique views of the island, particularly through its use of breathtaking aerial shots.

The video is part of a series shot around Queensland to encourage tourists to visit but it also serves as a reminder for locals of what we have in our own backyard.

If you have forgotten, get out and experience what our region has to offer.

After watching this video you will likely start on Magnetic Island.

Protect our playmakers

THE NRL needs to get serious about protecting the game’s playmakers, who are also usually its smallest players.

For consecutive weeks Johnathan Thurston has been clobbered with late hits which had the potential to cause serious injury.

He is clearly sick of the punishment he is copping and it is time the NRL implemented harsher penalties to stamp out these acts of dangerous foul play.