Council's Budget Under The Microscope Mackay Regional Council has handed down a $454 million “back to basics” budget for 2025–26, positioning it as one of the most restrained in Queensland — but not everyone’s convinced. With a general rate rise of 4.95 per cent, Council says it’s focused on maintaining core services while managing rising costs. Major projects include a $12.99 million investment in the Northern Beaches Community Hub and nearly $6.5 million for critical water infrastructur
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Two Year 12 students from St Patrick’s College Mackay have achieved national recognition, placing third in Australia at the prestigious National High School Mooting Competition – while simultaneously becoming the only regional school to reach the semi-finals and claim a top-three spot. Claudia Illguth and Mikayla Green represented the appellant in a challenging civil law case centred on parental liability for a child’s negligent behaviour. Their client had been injured on private property by an
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Nineteen members of the Whitsunday Running Club braved the rough seas to take part in the Great Whitehaven Beach Run in treacherous conditions with a 25 knott south easterly blowing. The female members of the club took out the trifecta in the half marathon with Liv Compton finishing ahead of Aimee Sulzberger and Alison Scoles. In the 10k race Riana Wronski finished strongly in second place. The male members of the club also achieved some great results with Roland Henderson placing second in th
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Meet Tex, a young, energetic boy bursting with personality and ready for a second chance at life. Tex was rescued from death row and is now looking for a loving forever home where he can continue to thrive. This handsome lad is full of energy and always up for an adventure, but he also has a sweet, cuddly side and loves spending time with his humans. While incredibly affectionate, Tex does have some past trauma and can be sensitive around his collar, head and ears. His foster carer has been wor
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The family of Jo McGregor sadly announced her passing over the weekend, the much-loved local passing away peacefully and surrounded by love following a brave and lengthy battle with cancer. Known for her incredible kindness, her community work, and friendly personality, Jo will be deeply missed by her many friends—and especially by her family, including husband Shane and their sons Jordan and Jay. Jo’s family posted this message: “After a long and courageous battle with cancer, we are heartbr
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Set high above the Coral Sea on Mount Whitsunday, Elementa Whitsundays, together with its on-site artisan gin and vodka maker 74 Islands Distillery, is transforming how locals and visitors experience dining, connection, and celebration in Airlie Beach. Now open to the public for walk-in evenings and exclusive daytime events, Elementa offers something rare: a venue that fuses world-class culinary experiences with panoramic views, small-batch spirits, and the effortless luxury of the tropics. Fr
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Secure your own rainforest sanctuary minutes from Airlie Beach, where weekends mean boating adventures, peaceful bushland escapes, and endless potential for your dream home. Perfect for those wanting a Whitsundays foothold without the full-time commitment.
• 5132m² corner block with rainforest surrounds
• Gently undulating land with partially cleared building site
• Large double-bay shed for boat or caravan storage
• Airconditioned & lined office, and utility room
• Outdoor shower plus water tank and sink
• Minutes to Airlie Beach village and boat ramps
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July 11, 2025
Whitsunday Coast Airport has officially joined the Containers for Change program, launching a new sustainability initiative expected to generate around $80,000 annually through container refunds. All departments within Council’s Commercial Businesses Directorate will participate in the program, which will support both the environment and local communities. Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the initiative was a double win. “This is about turning everyday recycling into real sup
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July 11, 2025
The Grazing Industry Many people today may not be aware that before Proserpine became the centre of a major sugar-producing area, it was encircled by large cattle stations. There had, in fact, been substantial cattle runs in the area dating back to the very early 1860s. These early cattle stations included Bromby Park, now Goorganga (once owned by Bodes and Cottons); Bloomsbury (MacCartneys); Proserpine Station and Amelia Vale (Emmersons); Cattle Vale (The James McDonald family); Collingvale (J
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July 11, 2025
Meet Dax, a tiny fighter with a huge heart. Dumped near railway tracks at just seven weeks old, this little kitten has already overcome more than most. Now safe in foster care, Dax is slowly learning that not all humans are bad, and that love and kindness do exist. Dax isn’t ready for adoption just yet, but Bowen and Collinsville Pet Rescue are now taking expressions of interest from kind-hearted families who’d love to welcome him into their home when the time comes. His adoption fee is $170,
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July 11, 2025
Football - Whitsunday United Football Club Friday 11 July 6.00 PM: Whitsunday United FC Div 2 Men vs Dolphins FC at Dolphin Park 8.00 PM: Whitsunday United FC Div 1 Men vs Dolphins FC at Dolphin Park Saturday 12 July 9.30 AM: Whitsunday United FC U13 Div 1 vs Mackay Rangers FC at Whitsunday United FC 9.30 AM: Whitsunday United FC U14 vs Mackay Rangers FC U14 Black at Mackay Football Park 11.00 AM: Whitsunday United FC U13 FQPL vs Mackay Rangers FC at Whitsunday United FC 11.15 AM: Whitsunday Un
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July 11, 2025
Footy in paradise lived up to its reputation over the weekend as the Sea Eagles hosted the North Mackay Saints at their home ground in stunning conditions. The day held special meaning as the club marked three years since the passing of Cody Gibbs, a beloved member of the Sea Eagles family. A new memento was unveiled in Cody’s honour, joining the perpetual award presented annually to a senior player who embodies the club spirit he represented. In a thrilling showdown, the Sea Eagles Senior Wom
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July 11, 2025
With the school holiday, there were no youth teams taking the field for Whitsunday United and as the Divisional men also got the weekend off, it was up to our Premier Men and Women to provide the entertainment. And they didn’t disappoint! Women The Whitsunday ladies faced a tough opponent in the Magpies squad. A few weeks ago, Magpies came out on top but it was a hard fought victory. Determined to turn the tables, the Whitsunday team worked hard as a defensive unit, rarely allowing Magpies to
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June 12, 2025
Friday 6th June Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm) Grand View Hotel: Sam McCann (from 8pm) Saturday 7th June Airlie Beach Hotel: Meatloaf Tribute (2pm – 5.30pm) Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm) Grand View Hotel: DJ Night (from 8pm) Coral Sea Pavillion: (Live Music & DJ Session 1pm – 6pm) Sunday 8th June Airlie Beach Hotel: Meatloaf Tribute (2pm – 5.30pm) Airlie Beach Hotel: Matt Angell (6.30 – 9.30pm) Grand View Hotel: Sam McCann (4pm - 8pm) Coral Sea Pavillion: Chill A
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July 11, 2025
July 11 Matilda followed by Grease, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm 12 NAIDOC Week Family Fun Day, Bowen Soundshell Santa Barbara Parade, 10:00am-2:00pm 13 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am 13 Proserpine Community Winter Markets, Proserpine State School Cyclone Shelter on Sherry Street, from 8:30am 15 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm 19 Tassal Airlie Beach Marathon Festival, Races between Port of Airlie & Cannonvale Beach with
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Friday 11th July Airlie Beach Hotel: Sing On Social (7pm – 10pm) Grand View Hotel: Troy Morrison (from 8pm) KC's: Shaun Diver (from 8pm) Saturday 12th July Airlie Beach Hotel: Fleetwood Mac Tribute (2pm – 5.30pm) Airlie Beach Hotel: Sing On Social (7pm – 10pm) Grand View Hotel: Dallas Steele (from 8pm) Coral Sea Pavillion: DJ Sugarlips (1pm – 6pm) KC's: Shaun Diver (from 8pm) Sunday 13th July Airlie Beach Hotel: Rock'N' The Country (2pm – 5.30pm) Airlie Beach Hotel: Sing On Social (6.30pm – 9.
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July 11, 2025
Robbie Williams fans, get ready—Australia’s top tribute act is heading back to the Whitsundays. Louie Lee Feltrin is set to perform his crowd-pleasing show at the Airlie Beach Hotel for the sixth time, and he couldn’t be happier to return. “I love the venue. I love the people. I love the energy," he said. "Everyone's in a good mood, there's a sunny disposition and everyone's happy.” Coming from Melbourne, Louie joked that his own mood lifts just stepping off the plane. He said in Victoria the
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At The Great Barrier Reef Festival The Great Barrier Reef Festival is all about community, colour, and creativity — and you can be part of the fun! Whether you’re a business, school, sporting club, community group, or just a bunch of mates, there’s an event with your name on it. Night Markets & Food Stalls Showcase your delicious eats or handmade goods and be part of the buzzing festival atmosphere along the foreshore. Revvin’ the Reef Car Show Got a classic, quirky, or custom ride? Roll
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