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Honouring The Past And Shaping The Future Greater Whitsunday Communities Celebrates 50 Years

Honouring The Past And Shaping The Future Greater Whitsunday Communities Celebrates 50 Years

By Hannah McNamara Greater Whitsunday Communities (GWC) marked 50 years of service with a commemorative event at CQUniversity Mackay City Campus. The milestone celebration united contributors, foundation members, and leaders to recognise decades of commitment to the Mackay, Isaac, and Whitsunday regions. Executive Officer Carol Norris honoured the vision of Carmel Daveson, while Mayor Greg Williamson applauded GWC’s achievements. Deputy Mayor Karen May reflected on the organisation’s journey, s

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Bringing Holiday Cheer To The Ports Join The Christmas Shoebox Appeal

Bringing Holiday Cheer To The Ports Join The Christmas Shoebox Appeal

What better way to spread holiday cheer than by bringing a touch of home to those far from theirs? The Stella Maris Christmas Shoebox Appeal is bringing holiday cheer to seafarers visiting the Ports of Hay Point, Mackay, and Abbot Point. Each year, Stella Maris Seafarers Centre Mackay distributes shoeboxes filled with small gifts to these hardworking men and women. Life at sea can be lonely and challenging, especially during the festive season, when seafarers are often far from their loved on

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Rod Francisco Named 2024 International Men's Day Mackay Man of the Year

Rod Francisco Named 2024 International Men's Day Mackay Man of the Year

Rod Francisco was recently honoured as the 2024 Mackay Man of the Year during the International Men's Day celebrations, which focused on men's positive contributions to society. This year’s events included an Art Show at the Jubilee Community Centre, along with the Mackay Man of the Year Award presentation breakfast at Souths Leagues Club, featuring insightful group discussions and an auction of the winning artwork. Reflecting on the recognition, Rod said he was “truly humbled” and expressed de

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Heritage, Heart, And A Whole Lot Of Good Times A New Chapter For Hotel Mackay

Heritage, Heart, And A Whole Lot Of Good Times A New Chapter For Hotel Mackay

By Amanda Wright The old bones of Hotel Mackay are about to get a second lease on life, thanks to a dynamic revival driven by two of Mackay’s beloved business couples. When the Laffins and Phillips families set their sights on the heritage-listed pub, it was more than just a business deal—it was a chance to honour their deep family ties to the hospitality scene, breathe new life into a local landmark, and create a new hub for the Mackay community to gather, celebrate, and make memories. For Ben

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Three Acres with Big Shed and Carport Close to Town
Three Acres with Big Shed and Carport Close to Town

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Tourism Industry Celebrates  Huge Wins At Queensland Tourism Awards

Tourism Industry Celebrates Huge Wins At Queensland Tourism Awards

The Whitsundays has once again demonstrated its status as a premier tourist destination, taking home 16 awards at the 2024 Queensland Tourism Awards. Among the night’s highlights, Elizabeth Hackett was honoured with the prestigious Marie Watson-Blake Award for Outstanding Contribution by an Individual. Her vision, leadership, and dedication have transformed businesses across the region, elevating The Whitsundays’ tourism sector to new heights.

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Pet Of The Week Meet Track star Timmy

Pet Of The Week Meet Track star Timmy

Gorgeous Timmy was saved from death row at the Burdekin Pound nearly two months ago and has since made incredible progress. When he first arrived at Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue, he was timid and fearful. But in his foster home, Timmy has blossomed, gaining confidence as he experiences daily meals, loving care, and plenty of attention. This playful boy loves to run full speed and has a blast playing zoomies with his foster brothers. Despite his initial anxieties, Timmy has integrated well into

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Animal Cruelty Cannonvale Duckpond

Animal Cruelty Cannonvale Duckpond

A routine morning walk turned into a chilling and distressing experience for local resident Sonny Ivanovic on November 10th, when he discovered signs of vandalism at the Cannonvale Duckpond. Sonny, who regularly walks his dog around the pond, immediately noticed that something was off as he entered the park. Bins were overturned, and debris was scattered across the area, an indication that the park had been disturbed. As he continued his stroll around the pond, Ivanovic realised that the two duc

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Whitsundays Named Best Adventure Destination

Whitsundays Named Best Adventure Destination

The Whitsundays has been named the Best Adventure Destination in Australia and New Zealand at the 2024 Adventure Tourism Awards, held in Brisbane on Thursday, 7 November.

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Gorgeous Home With Stunning Whitsunday Views

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Gorgeous Home With Stunning Whitsunday Views
3
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2
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4
Cars
Pool
4
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Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Whitsundays,
29 Island Drive offers the perfect combination of low
maintenance living and sweeping ocean views. This
fantastic 3-bedroom, 2 ½-bath home is ideal for those
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leave retreat.
With a smart layout and a coveted location just minutes
from the beach, shops, cafes, schools, and more, this
property is designed for a relaxed and convenient lifestyle.
Perfectly positioned to capture panoramic ocean vistas
from its tranquil, elevated position, the home is accessed
via a level, easy-access driveway with two undercover car
spaces and ample room for a boat or additional vehicles.
Upstairs, the private master retreat is one of the home's
standout features. It includes an ensuite, walk-in robe, and
sweeping ocean views, offering the ultimate sanctuary.
The two-level layout ensures effortless living, with
spacious, light-filled living areas that flow seamlessly to an
outdoor L-shaped terrace. This ideal space for entertaining
features a BBQ area and servery window to the kitchen, or
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Walk through the shaded, landscaped gardens to the
generously sized inground swimming pool, complete with
a deck and a gazebo area—perfect for unwinding during
hot summer afternoons.
Whether you’re seeking your next downsizer or the
ultimate Whitsunday family holiday getaway, 29 Island
Drive is a true standout in a desirable location.
Highlight Features:
• Privacy: Tranquil, elevated position for maximum privacy.
• Breathtaking Ocean Views: Panoramic ocean vistas from
key living spaces, the master retreat, and the swimming
pool.
• Easy Access: Flat, gentle access to the property.
• Beautiful Gardens: Lush, well-established gardens
offering a serene environment.
• Built-in Wardrobes, A/C & Ceiling Fans throughout.
• Kitchen: 800mm Bosch Ceran cooktop, plumbed for gas
(if required).
• Rainwater: 2000-litre rainwater tank plumbed to the
kitchen.
• Timber Floors

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GRAZING, FARMING OR NURSERY OPTIONS
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$1,100,000
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Three Acres with Big Shed and Carport Close to Town
Three Acres with Big Shed and Carport Close to Town
Offers from $699,000 OPEN SAT 11:15AM – 11:45AM
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Stunning Residence with an Even Better Shed
Stunning Residence with an Even Better Shed
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COMMUNITY NEWS

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Editor's Note

Editor's Note

November 21, 2024

Hi Everyone, A huge congratulations to all the local operators who attended the Queensland Tourism Awards over the weekend. An incredible 16 state awards were brought home to the region by Whitsunday businesses, illustrating the impressive standard of service we have within our local tourism industry. As many of you may remember, we were honoured to receive the award for Best Free Newspaper in Queensland at the Queensland Country Press Awards in May this year, and being acknowledged at state l

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Sweet Sales & Sausage Sizzles

Sweet Sales & Sausage Sizzles

November 21, 2024

A pair of young entrepreneurs have received much praise across the Whitsunday community after giving their piggy banks a boost with a delicious driveway initiative! Reef (12) and Jett (10) Brookes set out to make a few extra dollars by selling mangos for a cracker price, of only 50c each! Over the past couple of weekends, the pair have embarked on a pocket money mission, picking mangos from the creek beside their house, and setting up their spectacular stall, fully equipped with mum, Mel, and

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Whitsunday Skyway Receives $5M State Government Funding

Whitsunday Skyway Receives $5M State Government Funding

November 21, 2024

A game-changing $5 million investment into the Whitsunday Skyway, was announced by the state government this week, invigorating an exciting new momentum to this legacy eco-tourism project. The Whitsunday Skyway will be a ground-breaking new tourism activity located on the edge of Airlie Beach, nestled within the stunning Conway National Park. This innovative attraction will feature a cable car, breathtaking scenic viewpoints, food and beverage offerings, and a variety of activities and programs

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Local Sporting news & Results

Airlie Beach Marathon Champion Honoured with Prestigious Award

Airlie Beach Marathon Champion Honoured with Prestigious Award

November 21, 2024

North Queensland Marathon Champion Liv Compton has been named the 2024 Recreational Runner of the Year by Athletics North Queensland, earning recognition for her outstanding achievements over the past year. A proud member of the Whitsunday Running Club, Liv’s year began with an impressive performance at the 24-hour Australian Championships in Canberra, where she covered an astounding 201.5 kilometres to secure third place. Her remarkable accomplishments continued as she claimed victory in

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Strong Performances at GBR Meet Propel Cannons Towards States

Strong Performances at GBR Meet Propel Cannons Towards States

November 21, 2024

The Cannonvale Cannons Swimming Club had a spectacular weekend at the 51st GBR Long Course Transition Meet in Mackay. Thirty-five swimmers made the trip to compete at the Mackay Aquatic & Recreation Centre, a FINA-approved 50m pool that sets the stage for elite performances. This meet, a favourite among the Cannons, marked their final regional carnival before the Queensland Long Course Championships in December. It was a weekend of remarkable achievements with medals, personal bests (PBs), and

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Whitsunday Swimming Club Shines at Mackay GBR Meet

Whitsunday Swimming Club Shines at Mackay GBR Meet

November 21, 2024

The Whitsunday Swimming Club celebrated a standout weekend at the 51st GBR Meet hosted by the Mackay Swimming Academy at the ARC, bringing home their largest medal haul in years. The team of 14 swimmers delivered incredible performances, with George leading the charge, earning five gold medals from his events. Newcomer Alissa made an impressive debut for the club, securing a gold and silver while smashing her personal bests. Other medal winners included Mae, Mia, Hayden, Leyton, Jayde, Alex, an

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ENTERTAINMENT NEWS / GIG GUIDES / SOCIAL PIC GALLERY

Special Children Treated To An Early Christmas

Special Children Treated To An Early Christmas

November 18, 2024

The annual Mackay Children’s Christmas Party at the Showgrounds welcomed up to 1,200 children with special needs, invited through schools and care providers. This long-running event, held for over 30 years, catered to children with serious illnesses, physical or intellectual disabilities, and complex needs.

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Tusk Brings Fleetwood Mac Magic To Airlie Beach

Tusk Brings Fleetwood Mac Magic To Airlie Beach

November 21, 2024

Prepare to embark on a magical, musical journey back in time to the golden era of rock as Tusk, the Storybook Tribute to Fleetwood Mac, brings their dazzling show to the Airlie Beach Hotel for two wonderful and memorable performances next weekend. Renowned for their charm, character, and class, Tusk delivers a powerful homage to the iconic band that defined a generation, and on both Saturday 30 November, and Sunday 1 December, Tusk will illuminate the Airlie Beach Hotel from 2pm with audiences s

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Gig guide 22 November

Gig guide 22 November

November 21, 2024

Friday 22 November The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm) Grand View Hotel: Chris Webbe (4pm – 8pm) Saturday 23 November The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Late for Woodstock (2pm – 5.30pm) The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm) Grand View Hotel: Daybreak (4pm – 8pm) Coral Sea Pavilion: Live Music (from 1pm) Coral Sea Pavilion: Chill DJ Session (2pm – 6pm) Sunday 24 November The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Late for Woodstock (2pm – 5.30pm) The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel:

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Bring Hope And Happiness To Those Facing Challenges This Christmas

Bring Hope And Happiness To Those Facing Challenges This Christmas

November 21, 2024

The festive season is a time for kindness, generosity, and community spirit, and Mackay offers numerous opportunities to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those facing challenges. Whether it's donating toys and festive food through the Whitsunday Foodbank, spreading hope to survivors of domestic violence with Broken Ballerina Inc., or brightening the holidays for vulnerable families, every small act of kindness helps. Local initiatives such as the Cheeky Little Monkeys donation drive

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Loose Ends 2024 A Night To Embrace Diversity And Celebrate Community

November 21, 2024

LOOSE ENDS opens Friday December 6th and will be a night to remember, where the community comes together to embrace difference and celebrate diversity! Get ready for a quirky night of entertainment, giveaways, fundraising, socialising and more as Crossroad Arts heighten awareness for International Day of People with Disability. Returning to the MECC for 2024, LOOSE ENDS will be an eclectic evening of art, music and performances by local artists and performers. Acts include Groove Movers, With O

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