If the whining noise sounds to be from the front of the engine around belt area then would give a good bet that your hydraulic timing belt tensioner has collapsed and the noise you are hearing is the belt contacting the timing covers. You might try pulling all of the belts off and see if noise is still there with none of the other accessories turning. Not too long though as the alternator belt also runs the water pump and don't want to overheat. Have heard noise like you are describing and collapsed tensioner has been the cause. A few problems with the t-belt idler bearings but if they are that noisy they would have probably spun off by now.
The tensioner is $130.50 from Mazda. Mazda has also recently come out with really good value line timing belt kits. The kit for your van includes the belt, the tensioner bearing, and both idler bearings for only $116.35. Purchased individually, they would run you $358.05. Of course the kit does not include the hydraulic tensioner so would have to buy that separately. If you have a fax number where you can receive, I could fax you the belt replace procedures from the factory manual. PM me with a number if you are interested.

 

Afternoon

Thanks, When I got back from lunch they were on the fax

Doesn't seem to bad, I'll just have to buy the tool they describe.
I like tools.
This way I can tell my wife I'm saving money by doing it myself and get the tool as a bonus.

Have a great Holiday.