In today’s busy world, one-on-one time with the people you love can be a rarity, and I’ll admit, I’m often guilty of not making enough time for it with my own family.

Last Sunday, however, I made a point to carve out a two-hour window for just my son and me. We often have ‘family time’ with other members of our family, but when I thought about it, I realised we haven’t had much time just the two of us lately.

We took a trip into Airlie Beach, grabbed some sushi, and then had ice cream — enjoying both while we sat on a towel on the sandy slope of the lagoon, looking at the water and the turquoise ocean beyond.

We tested the water and were delighted by the temperature, so we stripped down to our swimmers and raced in. We swam a little, then played ‘catch’ for almost an hour. It was absolute heaven. We chatted the whole time, and I really felt like I got to know my son again. Afterwards, he told me that he loved me and asked if we could do it again soon. Of course, I said yes.

If you get the chance to have some one-on-one time with a loved one over this Easter holiday, I strongly recommend it - taking the time to connect with those who matter most can offer a refreshing perspective on what really matters.

Similarly, as the Federal Election approaches, it’s important to make informed decisions about what truly matters for our region and we’ll be covering the election thoroughly while striving to remain fair and impartial.

Next Tuesday, we’ll be live-streaming the members-only ‘Meet the Candidates’ event hosted by the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce & Industry. If you’re not yet a Chamber member, now is a great time to sign up and attend an event that promises to be highly engaging.

When deciding who to vote for this election, ask yourself: Who would you want a one-on-one with? Which candidate would listen to your needs and the needs of our region the most?

Rach

Quote of the week: "You will never look back on life and say 'I spent too much time with my kids'"

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With Shell Wardrope

Local hero Michelle Shell Wardrope, whose determination and resilience have inspired the community, has successfully completed her 50-squats-per-day challenge throughout March, all while adjusting to life with only one leg after a life-changing incident last year.

In March 2023, Shell tragically lost her leg after a soil-borne bacterial infection entered her bloodstream following a fall. Despite the trauma, she channeled her energy into a mission to raise funds for the Royal Flying Doctors, the service that helped bring her home after her initial recovery.

To support her cause, Shell invited the community to join her at a special on March 30th, at the Airlie Beach Foreshore. The afternoon was filled with heartwarming moments as people gathered to cheer her on, including a special challenge to participate in her penultimate set of 50 squats.

Shell would like to make sure a big thank you goes out to everyone who made the event possible. The Mayor of Whitsunday Ry Collins joined Shell for the event, showing his support for her inspiring journey.

Mr Whipsunday kept everyone cool with free ice creams, while the local Bendigo Bank generously donated chairs and tables for the BBQ. Beagles Pizzas also provided delicious pizza for attendees, ensuring no one went hungry.

Although Shell’s journey has been difficult, she’s shown incredible strength and positivity, raising over $1,000 for the Royal Flying Doctors. The event was a beautiful display of community spirit and support, and Shell was overwhelmed by the love and encouragement from all who attended.

“I’m getting way more out of it than I ever thought I would,” Shell said. "This community has really uplifted me, and I’m so grateful for every person who has supported my journey."

The challenge may be over, but Shell’s message of resilience and the importance of helping others will continue to inspire the Whitsundays for years to come.

With the funds from the 50-squat challenge going to the Royal Flying Doctors, Shell is also currently running a personal GoFundMe page for anyone who would like to donate to help her get a new car so she can become more mobile.

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Shell Wardrope and her family with Mayor Ry Collins who attended the recent community event

Shell and her husband next to the Airlie Beach sign, moments after she completed the last set of 50-squats per day for the month of March. Photos supplied

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Collinsville is set to shine even brighter, with Federal Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry, announced this week a $250,000 commitment to deliver the next stage of the town’s beautification project if an LNP Government is elected in May.

This fresh injection of funding will deliver Stage 2 of the revitalisation, focusing on landscaping both entrances to Collinsville and enhancing the area leading to the cemetery, ensuring the first and last impressions of the town reflect the heart and pride of the local community.

Michelle Landry said the project would build on the solid foundation already laid by the LNP Government through the $741,750 delivered in 2022 under the highly successful Building Better Regions Fund for Stage 1 of the Collinsville CBD upgrades.

“I’ve fought hard to deliver real infrastructure for Collinsville. This has included a brand new QCWA hall, to the Stage 1 town centre upgrade and $1.2 million for the waterpark,” Ms Landry said.

“This additional $250,000 commitment is about finishing what we started. Collinsville is a hardworking, proud community and it deserves to look just as good as it feels to live in.

“Under the former LNP Government, we backed regional towns like Collinsville with funding that made a real difference. If elected, the LNP will get back to delivering for our regions, not forgetting them like Labor has.

“The new commitment is a clear sign the LNP is delivering for regional Queensland and the people of Collinsville.”

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Federal Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry and Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins in Collinsville where Ms Landry made a $250,000 commitment to deliver the next stage of the town’s beautification project if an LNP Government is elected in May. Photo supplied

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In May this year, Proserpine Golf Club will celebrate 100 years of chasing that little white ball. Today, the club boasts over 300 members who tee off on what is now regarded as a championship standard golf course. But 100 years ago, it was a vastly different scenario.
How it all began …

The Proserpine Golf Club was born when a group of golf lovers met at Phaff’s Paddock (the current site of Whitsunday Gold Coffee Plantation) to swing a club. Men such as local dentist of the time, W E (Bill) Hood, Claude Kieran, Matt Ingram, Fred Barnes and Arthur Toohey are some of the names of early golfers recorded in past notes from these early days. Soon, many other local citizens and their wives joined and a club was formed with Council Chairman, Bob Shepherd as patron.

A small golf course with no recognised fairways was drawn up. However, the paddock had to be shared with several football clubs. The local Ramblers, All Blacks and other footballers played on this field and the place became overcrowded however it served the purpose until the committee decided to lease the showgrounds.

But conditions at the showgrounds were poor. The only shade available was provided by the spreading branches of trees and water had to be taken there in a bottle. A shelter was desperately required and so too were funds. Mr C E Mazlin spearheaded a working party which gathered black mangrove timber and built a rustic shelter – such ingenuity.

Eventually, a small clubhouse was erected a short distance from the present entrance to the grounds and opened in 1932. From there, players hit the ball down the fairway towards the horse paddock. After that, it was across the show ring where the fence rails were often a hazard, then towards the cattle yards and then Pig Creek and by the time the course had been completed, players had done a full circuit of the showgrounds.

The Golf Club provided more than just a sporting opportunity. It was also a wonderful social occasion. The women would make afternoon tea and the men brought a dozen bottles of beer. Soon competitions were held with Bowen, Mackay and Collinsville.
Moving along …

After World War 2, moves were made towards securing the club’s own land but finances and suitable land were stalling points until 1948 when it was decided to renegotiate with Mr Gordon Edwards for the land now owned by the club. Mr Tom Foxlee also agreed to sell the club 10 acres bringing the total area for the course to 42 acres.

Thanks to volunteers with tractors, ploughs and graders, the hard work of clearing and burning gums, ti-trees and other scrub, especially on weekends, was accomplished. Next there was a course to be planned. This was drafted out by Frank Wilson, Joe Carter, Alan Spence, John McLellan and Lyall Jones. And then a “new” clubhouse was necessary as the one at the showgrounds had served its purpose. Mr W Greenwood’s old home, said to have been built around the 1890s, was purchased and its removal and reconstruction were supervised by Mr Dick Oakhill.

About 350 people attended the official opening in May 1952 which was performed by Mr Lloyd Roberts, Member for Whitsunday. When Club Patron, Mr Charlie Faust, drove off the first ball from No 1 Tee to the accompaniment of loud applause, the men and associates did a crocodile dance with Arthur Neill on the bagpipes. The band rendered lively music and celebrations continued well into midnight.
Fast Forward to 2025 …

From an impromptu rest under a tree, with a hasty swig from a water bottle, members can now revive their flagging spirits with a cool drink and a comfortable rest in a spacious, air-conditioned clubhouse after playing on the rolling greens of what is now (since 1971) an 18 hole course.

Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum

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Receives Support From Willcox

Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, announced this week that an elected Dutton Liberal National Government will provide $20,000 to support the Proserpine Youth Space.

“The Proserpine community is growing in population and therefore growing in the number of youths that require support,” Mr Willcox said.

“Youth Space is a non-government organisation offering the support and guidance for 8 to 21 year olds. It provides our young people with a safe and comfortable environment to socialise and interact with their friends, as well as with staff and volunteers.

“With the increase in crime and decrease in social development amongst youths, programs that create resilience and provide guidance, are imperative.

“Youth Space does exactly that, by creating a foundation to reduce anti-social behaviour and help set our youth on the right path for their future and the betterment of the community.

“The LNP knows how important it is to fund grass roots programs within small communities, which is why I’m proud to commit funding to this vital program if a Dutton-led Liberal National Government is elected.”

Renee Buckley from the Proserpine Youth Space Coordinator said, “We receive referrals from Queensland Police of young youths who are going off the track in life, and we try to support them the best way we can with our Anger and Anxiety Youth Program.

“This funding commitment will mean we will be able to continue to run this program with martial arts, fitness, and art therapy with the aim to help teenagers develop resilience and channel any anger into other positive activities.”

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Willcox pledges $20,000 to support the Proserpine Youth Space if LNP Government elected. Photo supplied

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Willcox Drives Funding For The Bruce

I was excited when Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, announced in January that the Labor government would fund $7.2 billion towards the Bruce Highway. However, the celebrations for Dawson were short lived, when it was discovered not a cent had been allocated for the region until at least 2028.

Senate estimates revealed that of the announced funding only $432 million had been costed over the next three years and that money is not making it to Dawson.

This figure is lower again than the $488 million Labor removed from the 2024 budget, set aside by the previous Coalition government. In January the Coalition without hesitation matched the $7.2 billion announced, and it now appears only a change of government will deliver any of these funds for North Queensland in the near future.

Under Labor this important corridor that stretches right through Dawson has gone backwards. Labor’s flashy billion dollar announcements are worthless. The money is not allocated, certainly not for North Queensland, and under Labor our region won’t have access to these funds until at least 2028.

Coalition governments have a record of providing the funds and delivering on necessary improvements to the Bruce Highway.

The last time the Federal Coalition were in government, funded and executed projects in Dawson included; the Mackay Ring Road, flood mitigation works, safety improvements with more overtaking lanes and widened sections right along the Bruce. Labor stopped the momentum of these projects, a trend I am passionate about reversing.

If elected, a Dutton/Littleproud government will fully restore the 80:20 funding split for the Bruce Highway. Meaning the federal government takes a greater funding responsibility, picking up 80% of the tab, while the State Government is left to pick up a more manageable 20%.

In 2023, the Albanese government downgraded the Federal contribution to 50%. When the federal government share is less, it puts a higher burden on the State Government to finance projects, which in turn means there is less money flowing to projects the State Government are trying to achieve.

Labor’s promises are just sexy sound bites to win votes. The Bruce, especially in regional Queensland, is just not a priority for Labor.

North Queensland needs a government to get on with the job. Road users of Dawson need the money delivered now, not just flashed around as a maybe, sometime, never.

If the Coalition wins the upcoming federal election on May 3rd, a Coalition government will also be aided by having a strong ally in the recently elected Crisafulli LNP State Government.

Together, with a LNP State Government that also values a better Bruce Highway, North Queenslanders will see a new era of positive cross government collaboration with the right and fair funding model to back our Bruce.

To join me in ‘Backing Our Bruce” sign my petition to get the wheels in motion. www.andrewwillcox.com.au/back-our-bruce

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Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox says funding is vital to fix the Bruce Highway. Photo supplied

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Funding Available For Residents

Whitsunday Regional Council has secured State Government Funding to support residents impacted by flying-fox roosts.

Residents impacted by flying-fox roosts in Collinsville can now access resident assistance grants for lifestyle mitigations to provide practical solutions that help offset impacts of flying-fox roost noise, odour and property damage.

Council secured a $46,000 State Government grant and is also contributing $20,000 to assist residents directly impacted by flying-fox roosts in urban areas.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the initiative responds to community concerns and ensures support for those most impacted.

“This funding allows residents to implement lifestyle mitigations that make a real difference,” Mayor Collins said.

“Eligible residents can claim up to 75% of costs, up to $3,000, to offset the challenges posed by flying fox roosts.”

Council has trialled intervention measures since 2021 with mixed success. While high-intensity methods have had limited results, this funding offers an alternative approach without restricting future options.

During the Flying-fox Policy and Plan consultation undertaken in July 2024, a subsidy was suggested by the community as one of the management options that could help affected residents.

Councillor Michelle Wright reaffirmed Council’s commitment to ongoing support for affected residents.

“This funding is just one of several tools available, and Council remains open to future interventions where appropriate,” Cr Wright said.

“We recognise the challenges faced by impacted residents and will continue to explore solutions that balance conservation with community wellbeing.”

Residents with flying-foxes on their property will be prioritised, however, residents within 100 metres of a roost can apply, with case-by-case assessments available for others significantly impacted.

Fact sheets and application forms are available via Council’s Online Engagement Portal, Your Say Whitsunday, or at a Customer Service Centre.

Funding is open until February 2026 or until fully allocated. For more information and to apply, visit yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au or contact Council’s Customer Service team on 1300 972 753.

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Residents that live within 100 metres of a flying fox roost can now access up to $3000 funding to help mitigate impacts. Photo: stock image, illustration only

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As the Proserpine Golf Club prepares to celebrate its Centenary on the first weekend of May, the excitement among members and locals is palpable. Whilst the club's genesis dates back to 1925, this landmark occasion is just as much about honouring its strong and thriving present as it is about reflecting on its rich and vibrant past.

With a steadily growing membership of between 350 and 380 individuals, the club is a predominant hub for sport, social connection, and personal growth in the Proserpine community. Whether you are a seasoned veteran of the golf course or a starry-eyed novice, learning how to hold and swing your first golf club, the club prides itself on its welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.

As Golf Professional Roger Vandenberg explains, “The handicap system means anyone can play and be competitive, regardless of their ability.” The recent increase in the maximum handicap for women from 36 to 54 is one of many steps the club has taken to make the sport more inclusive and accessible.

Today, Proserpine Golf Club proudly possesses an 18-hole championship course, complete with beautifully picturesque surroundings of crystalline creeks, rolling cane fields and majestic gum trees.

Due to its modernised irrigation system, the course remains in excellent condition even through dry spells. The club also boasts a practice fairway, putting green, practice nets, and a cutting edge TrackMan training facility where golfers of all levels can fine-tune their swing by utilising state of the art professional grade technology.

Roger, who has had the pleasure of serving as the club's professional for almost a decade, offers everything from individual private lessons to group clinics, including groups for ladies and juniors. He also provides club fitting and equipment repair services. Roger is supported by his associate and aspiring professional golfer, Nathan. Their presence at Proserpine Golf Club has contributed significantly to its growth and sharp improvement in competition standards.

Off the golf course, the on-site Clubhouse provides an energetic social venue, hosting everything from birthdays to weddings, wakes and post-round catch-ups. Recent renovations, including new furniture and abundant parking spaces, have made the golf club even more inviting.

As the centenary edges ever closer, the club takes time to highlight the efforts of its many volunteers, sponsors and long-serving families whose stalwart dedication has helped shape its success. Their work has laid the foundation for what promises to be a memorable centennial celebration and exciting future.

From its friendly atmosphere to its first-class facilities, Proserpine Golf Club stands as a shining beacon of what a community-driven sporting club can become and after a century, the only direction is upwards.

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Roger Vandenberg Head Professional, Photo Credit: Munir Kilic

Roger Vandenberg Head Professional and Nathan Sothmann PGA Associate, Photo Credit: Munir Kilic

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Done N Dusted Country, located conveniently on Proserpine’s Main Street, has swiftly become a beloved shopping destination since opening for business in October 2023. Owned and operated by Amber Duggan, a Proserpine local since 2005 and a mother of three, this charming country store provides local residents with a convenient, community focused retail experience.

Done N Dusted Country offers a diverse range of country clothing, footwear and accessories, catering specifically to the tastes and needs of Proserpine's residents and for surrounding communities throughout the Whitsundays and beyond.

Amber's commitment to the provision of local shopping emphasises her love for strengthening the local economy and supporting Proserpine's close-knit community. Customers seeking specific brands or unique country styles can handily place special orders directly with the store, adding a personalised touch to their country shopping experience. Done N Dusted Country shares the same building with Hunting and Shooting Supplies Whitsunday, owned and operated by Amber’s husband, Martin Duggan who is an equally passionate champion of the local community.

“There’s not really any country oriented shops in this town, so we wanted to do something unique with this store to service the needs of the locals and surrounding regions” said Mr Duggan.

Beyond retail, Amber and Martin’s authentic enthusiasm for uplifting their community is exemplified in their support of young local rodeo riders. Done N Dusted Country actively provides sponsorship opportunities to these young cowboys, offering them free clothing and discounted items from various brands. The couple enjoy helping them compete in rodeos and promoting rural tourism in the process and displaying the best of Proserpine's talent and country charm. This approach has made the store an integral element of the community, enriching the Proserpine experience for residents and visitors alike.

Done N Dusted Country is more than just a store, it's a celebration of rural life, community spirit and local pride. Whether you are visiting from out of town or you are a Proserpine local, make sure you stop by Done N Dusted Country on your next trip to Main Street and experience firsthand what Amber and Martin Duggan have to offer.

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With Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce President Allan Milostic

What's your number one election priority?

Recently the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry acknowledged the federal government’s pre-election budget. Whilst the investment in infrastructure, cost of living, and tax relief is welcome, the budget ultimately signals a future of debt and deficit and falls short in delivering targeted support for small businesses.

The budget aims to ‘shape a more affordable Australia’ but what does that look like, what are the knock-on effects for our region’s economy?

The Whitsunday business community looks forward to raising these questions, and more, at our Meet the Federal Election Candidates event, scheduled for 6pm Tuesday 15 April (for non-Chamber members, Mackay and Whitsunday Life will live stream aspects of the event via their Facebook page).

We have asked the Whitsunday business community to share their number one priority for this year’s federal election. The major issues include:

· Improve Whitsunday road infrastructure and the Bruce Highway.

· Business insurance accessibility and affordability for North Queensland.

· Critical public transportation issues which are impacting people's ability to gain employment in our region.

· How to ensure a vibrant rural sector so region’s businesses are also vibrant.

· Government spending and waste.

· More financial support for events and festivals that economically contribute to the region.

· Freedom of speech.

· Continuing the flow of visitors to the region during flooding events and wet season.

· Support for regional not-for-profits, such as the Proserpine Agriculture and Industry Association who utilize the Proserpine Showgrounds for annual shows.

Specifically, the Chamber is keen to hear from all the candidates what their economic vision for the Whitsundays entails, and the community initiatives they will support, and if they are willing and able to advocate local issues contrary to their party’s policy position.

We look forward to sharing highlights from our event to help everyone make their vote count!

WHAT: Meet the Federal Election Candidates (Members only event)
WHEN: 6pm Tuesday 15 April
WHERE: Club Croc

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You’ve likely seen Tourism Whitsundays around town or mentioned in the news - but what exactly do we do, and how can local tourism operators benefit?

We’re a not-for-profit marketing organisation dedicated to promoting our beautiful region, supporting tourism product development, and delivering visitor services. Our core focus is to increase visitation, extend the length of stay, and encourage dispersal across Airlie Beach, Bowen, Collinsville, Proserpine, and the Islands - ultimately driving more visitor spend into the region.

Funded by Tourism and Events Queensland and Whitsunday Regional Council, we deliver strategic marketing campaigns that showcase the Whitsundays to the world. From managing destination social media and securing media features to working with influencers and travel agents, everything we do is about putting the region front and centre in people’s travel plans.

Tourism operators and businesses can invest in a membership with us, gaining opportunities to be featured in marketing activity, attend trade events, and access valuable tools, including industry insights, training, and networking. Eligible members also receive discounted membership with the Queensland Tourism Industry Council, Queensland’s peak industry body.

Whether you’re a long-time operator or new to the tourism space, we’d love for you to learn more about how Tourism Whitsundays can support you and help grow your business.

To find out more about membership or how we can work together, get in touch with the team today at membership@tourismwhitsundays.com.au

Contributed by Tourism Whitsundays

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I’m excited that the Whitsundays will be hosting the Queensland Tourism Industry Council’s 2025 World Environment Day event right here at Council’s beautiful Shute Harbour Marine Terminal.

With the breathtaking Whitsundays as our backdrop, the Heart of the Great Barrier Reef and future home of Olympic sailing for the Brisbane 2032 Games there’s no better place to talk about the future of sustainable tourism and environmental leadership.

On June 5, we’ll welcome tourism leaders, eco-innovators, and decision-makers from across Queensland to explore how we can continue to grow our industry while protecting the natural environment that makes our region so special.

This event is not only a celebration of progress, it’s an important moment to reflect on the role local governments play in protecting the places we call home.

Reef councils, including Whitsunday Regional Council, are the single largest contributor to Great Barrier Reef conservation investing more than $228 million each year in direct environmental activities.

That’s an extraordinary commitment at the local level but it’s one we take seriously. Queensland is the most biologically diverse state in Australia, and it’s our job to protect the iconic species and landscapes we’re so lucky to live alongside.

Through initiatives like Council’s Healthy Heart Project, we’ve helped tourism operators better understand their carbon footprints and act on sustainability.

We’ve also celebrated the launch of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) at Whitsunday Coast Airport, a major milestone, and a perfect example of innovation in action.

But we want to do more. Reef councils are ready to consolidate and accelerate the progress we’ve made, with the right support.

That’s why we’re calling on state and federal governments to continue backing locally-led environmental solutions, and to recognise the critical role councils play in protecting our natural assets, not just for today, but for generations to come.

World Environment Day is a chance to come together, share what’s working, and plan for what’s next. I’m excited for the conversations ahead and even more excited about what we can achieve, together, right here in the Whitsundays.

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Eco Barge’s Circular Economy Art Project Unveiled At Whitsunday Coast Airport

Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc. is proud to announce the unveiling of the Waves of Change community art project at the Whitsunday Coast Airport. This stunning artwork, crafted from a small portion of the 252,331 bottle top lids collected during marine debris clean-ups in 2024, is a powerful symbol of the urgent need to transition from a take-make-waste model to a sustainable circular economy.

The Waves of Change project was made possible, in part, with grant funding from the Queensland Circular Economy (Industry-Research) Program, an initiative of the Queensland Government, delivered by the Resources Centre of Excellence. Eco Barge was selected as one of six successful applicants, demonstrating our commitment to industry-led innovation that drives environmental sustainability.

In 2024 alone, Eco Barge volunteers collected and removed 6,705 kilograms of marine debris from the Whitsunday Islands. With support from Endeavour Group and the dedication of Eco Barge’s volunteers, who spent their Saturdays creating the piece, the recovered plastic bottle tops were transformed into a powerful artwork. The project was part of the weekly Art Wave sessions run by Eco Barge volunteer Ruth Puddefoot, and aims to highlight the impact of plastic pollution on our marine environment.

To celebrate this community-driven initiative, a special competition is underway at the Whitsunday Coast Airport! Visitors are invited to guess the total number of bottle top lids used in the Waves of Change artwork, with the lucky winner receiving an unforgettable family trip to the Great Barrier Reef, generously sponsored by Cruise Whitsundays.

“This project is a powerful reminder that every single person plays a role in protecting our oceans. If we dispose of litter responsibly on land, we prevent it from becoming marine debris that threatens our beautiful islands and marine life here in the Whitsundays,” said Libby Edge, Founder of Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc.

Whitsunday Coast Airport Director Craig Turner said “Waves of Change” is more than just a beautiful installation – it’s a visual statement about our community’s commitment to sustainability.

“We're proud to host this powerful piece at the airport, where it will inspire both locals and visitors the moment they arrive in the Whitsundays.

“This collaboration with Eco Barge highlights the impact we can make when passionate people, local organisations, and industry work together.

“The airport is the gateway to the Whitsundays, and we’re honoured to help share the message of circular economy and marine protection with the world.

Eco Barge would like to thank their volunteers, Endeavour Group, Whitsunday Council and Cruise Whitsundays for their invaluable support in bringing Waves of Change to life.

For more information on Eco Barge’s ongoing marine conservation efforts or to enter the Waves for Change contest, visit www.ecobargecleanseas.org.au/circularity

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Endeavour Group who sorted the bottle top lids into colours with Founder of Eco Barge Libby Edge and Volunteer Kelly Cronin.

Founder of Eco Barge, Libby Edge, Ruth Puddefoot and Kelly Cronin.

Airport Staff, Endeavour Group, Eco Barge Volunteers and Founder of Eco Barge Libby Edge.

Ruth Puddefoot who coordinated the Saturday art project.

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At the recent Futurist State of the Region event hosted by the Whitsundays Regional Council, key leaders and forward-thinking businesses gathered to discuss the exciting future of the region. The event’s presentation featured speeches by Mayor Ry Collins, Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP, and an amazing guest keynote speaker, Anders Sörman-Nilsson, a global futurist and innovation strategist.

Mayor Collins’ speech reflected the past and future of the Whitsundays; highlighted the region’s rapid growth, particularly in Airlie Beach and Cannonvale, which is now one of the fastest-growing areas in regional Queensland. With the largest population increase, along with booming tourism, the region is on a clear path to prosperity.

Mayor Collins distinctly pointed out that 1 in 4 workers employed in the tourism sector demonstrated the region’s appeal to both national and international travellers. The Whitsundays infrastructure is being developed to meet this growing demand especially in short-term accommodation, a housing sector that has boomed post-Cyclone Debbie. Mayor Collins also emphasised that the council and region is extremely excited as a whole with the recent announcement about the hosting opportunity of the upcoming 2032 Olympic Games.

Amanda Camm was the next to speak and focused on tangible improvements for Queenslanders, including a local committee to address the much-needed upgrades to the Bruce Highway and making sure the upgrades go where they are needed most. Amanda also championed grassroots funding for young athletes and emphasised the region’s commitment to ecotourism, educational growth, and housing development to keep pace with the current tourism expansion and demands.

The morning wrapped up with guest keynote speaker Anders Sörman-Nilsson, who provided a thought-provoking look at the future of business, urging local companies to embrace emerging technologies like AI and robotics. He painted an intriguing picture where mundane tasks are automated, freeing human minds to pursue more creative and fulfilling endeavours. Ander’s insights were a reminder that science fiction is rapidly becoming science fact, and the future of work will be shaped by how we adapt to these innovations. Especially directing his points to small businesses who need to think smarter and embrace the opportunities rising technologies can afford them.

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Photo credit: Victoria Velton.

Anders Sörman-Nilsson and Mayor Ry Collins

Mayor Ry Collins, Amanda Camm MP and Craig Turner

Anders Sörman-Nilsson delivering his speech

Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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Category Five Become First Band To Win Fast Track To Fame

The 2025 Fast Track to Fame talent showcase in Burdekin, Ayr, was a thrilling celebration of exceptional talent, and Proserpine State High School (PSHS) students were front and centre. With over 55 acts competing across various categories, it was a weekend of fierce competition and thrilling performances. Among the standouts were talented students from PSHS, who left an indelible mark on the judges and audiences alike. Their accomplishments highlight not only their dedication to their craft but also the bright future ahead for these rising stars.

Year 11 student Liam O'Neill and Year 7 student Declan Davy made huge waves as part of the band Category 5, which won the top honour of Best Overall Talent. Their dynamic performance of "Joker and the Thief" and "Enter Sandman" earned them the judges’ praise, and they made history as the first band to win the Best Overall Talent Award. The win marked an exciting milestone for the students, who impressed everyone in the theatre and had audiences rocking out in their seats. Overcoming 60 acts in two heats, they were shortlisted to 24 in final, and emerged as the winner.

Blake Hanks, a Year 12 student, emerged as one of the event's top winners, claiming the prestigious Fast Track to Fame Award. As part of his prize, Blake will receive an all-expenses-paid workshop with guest judge and mentor Hugh Sheridan in Melbourne.

For Blake, this was his first time competing at Fast Track to Fame, and he expressed his excitement about the opportunity.

"It was my first time competing at the Fast Track to Fame event, and I liked the diversity of the talent. Hugh was really nice, and I look up to him as a performer. I’m looking forward to meeting with the two talent agents and doing a musical theatre workshop with Hugh," Blake shared.

Another standout was Kaydee Miller, a Year 12 student who showcased her vocal talents through a solo, a duet with Blake Hanks, and a duet with fellow student Dominik James-Johnson.

Kaydee and Dominik’s performance of "When I Drive" from Bonnie and Clyde: The Musical made it all the way to the Grand Finals, though they did not progress further. Kaydee reflected on the experience, saying, “My favourite part was seeing everyone being so supportive of each other and having fun together. It was enjoyable watching the other acts in the different heats," and "It was great meeting Hugh as he shared tips about auditioning and what skills you need to make it in musical theatre.”

Dominik also had an enriching experience at the event, adding, “I liked watching everyone perform. There were some great singers from our region.” Their positive outlook and the camaraderie shared among the competitors was a highlight of the event for many.

The Fast Track Talent Showcase remains a critical launchpad for emerging artists, offering invaluable exposure and opportunities. As Mayor of the Burdekin Pierina Dalle Cort commented, "Every year, the talent in North Queensland continues to astound us, and this year was no exception. The 2025 winners represent a new wave of incredible artists who have a bright future ahead."

The remarkable achievements of these local students demonstrate the incredible depth of talent in the region. As they continue to hone their craft, they are sure to inspire others and make their mark on the world of performing arts. With their passion, dedication, and the support of their community, the future is dazzling bright for these young stars.

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Category 5 proudly show of their award, with guest judge Hugh Sheridan. Photo supplied Proserpine State School.

All the awarded acts together on stage.

Event judge and actor, singer, and television presenter Hugh Sheridan with members of band Category 5.

Proserpine State High School students Kaydee Miller and Dominik James-Johnson performing.

Proserpine State High School student Blake Hanks with celebrity guest judge Hugh Sheridan.

Kaydee and Blake performing a duet together.

Kaydee performing her solo.

Category 5 in the green room.

Category 5 together at the Burdekin Theatre.

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At The Proserpine Rock Wallaby Festival Art Exhibition

The Proserpine Rock Wallaby Festival is fast approaching, and with it comes one of the most exciting showcases of regional talent—the Festival Art Exhibition. A celebration of creativity in all its forms, the exhibition brings together a diverse collection of paintings, drawings, sculptures, and photographs that reflect the rich artistic spirit of our community.

This is more than just an art show, it’s a vibrant reflection of who we are as a region. From seasoned artists to emerging talent, the exhibition is a platform for expression, storytelling, and connection. For young creatives aged 12 to 17, the Smart Arts Youth Expression Award offers a unique opportunity to be recognised and encouraged in their artistic journey. If you're an artist and haven't yet entered, there's still time! Entries close on April 28th.

The exhibition will run from the 8th to 11th May, with all eyes on the Opening Night at 6:30pm, Thursday 8th May at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, where winners of the Wilmar Sugar and Renewables Best in Show Award, Tassal's Theme Award, and the Smart Arts Youth Expression Award will be announced. Everyone is welcome—come and be inspired by the creativity that thrives in our region.

But the celebration doesn’t stop there as on Saturday 11th May, immerse yourself in creativity at the Art in the Park ‘come n try’ workshops. It's a perfect chance for all ages to explore new mediums in a relaxed, outdoor setting. And don’t miss the OURscape Art Challenge in Ken McPherson Park, where plein air artists will race the clock to create a masterpiece in under four hours.

The final curtain falls on Sunday 11th May at 12pm, when the Bendigo Bank People’s Choice Award will be revealed—a fitting close to a festival that puts art and community at its heart.

Tickets for the Festival's Mothers Day Morning Tea are available now! Scan the QR code or follow the link: proserpine.sales.ticketsearch.com/sales/salesevent/146466 or visit the P.E.C in person to secure your spot.

Want to win 2 FREE tickets for you and Mum? Just share your thoughts or a heartfelt message about Mother’s Day in the comments on our event post on Facebook — we’ll be choosing a lucky winner on April 7th to join us for free! Let’s come together as a community to celebrate, appreciate, and uplift the wonderful women in our lives.

Whether you’re an artist, an art lover, or simply curious, the Art Exhibition at the Rock Wallaby Festival is not to be missed. Scan the QR code and enter your own art for the exhibition, or book a spot in one of their amazing creative workshops! Come and celebrate the talent in our own backyard.

WHAT: Proserpine Rock Wallaby Festival 8th - 11th May.
WHEN: 8th May Exhibition Opening Night 6:30pm | 11th May all-day is Art Workshops, the Art Challenge, and at 12:00pm the Peoples Choice Award.
WHERE: Proserpine Entertainment Festival (P.E.C.) and in Ken McPherson Park.

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By Victoria Velton

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said “We wish Jason all the very best in the rally,” and, “It is such a great cause and will also be great promotion for Bowen mangoes and our region.”

With only have a few weeks until the Mango Madness team drive down to Canberra where the rally's starting line is, they reflected on the upcoming journey and the cause saying "We have no guarantee we're actually going to make it to Canberra to start the event, or to finish it. Breaking down all the time is part of the experience of the rally."

Jason aims to enjoy the experience while honouring his late sister’s memory saying, "We're trying to do it for someone that can't be here. It's good for honouring their memory, but it doesn't change what's happened."

The journey isn’t just about the car or the rally itself; it’s about giving back to a cause that has affected so many lives. "There are others in the family who are still fighting cancer," Jason adds. “Everyone’s life is of equal value, and that’s why we’re doing this."

Some people are lucky enough to fight and beat cancer, however, unfortunately, not everyone who has been diagnosed with cancer, survives. Your donations will help the Cancer Council continue its great work and any help is greatly appreciated. you can donate to Mango Madness at: https://autumn2025.shitboxrally.com.au/mango-madness.

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Supplied: Leanne Abernethy, Manager Bowen Tourism and Business

Sourced: North Queensland Cruising Yacht Club's Facebook Page

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For World War One Veterans!

The Bowen RSL Sub-Branch is calling on the descendants of three World War One veterans:

Thomas Garside Barker (died 16 November 1970)
Archibald Cheffins (died 10 December 1985)
Charles Rainbird Rodgers (died 7 December 1945)

All three are buried in unmarked graves at Bowen Cemetery. Recently, the Bowen RSL submitted a request to the Australian Government’s Office of Australian War Graves (OAWG) for official commemoration, which has been approved. As part of this process, the OAWG requires the Bowen RSL to attempt to locate and reach out to any descendants of these veterans.

If you are a descendant or know someone who is, or for more information, please contact the Bowen RSL via email at: bowen@rslqld.org or by phone at 0409 046976.

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Hi Everyone,

This week, we bid farewell to Whitsunday journalist Victoria Velton, who has successfully completed three months of initial cadetship training. Victoria is now embarking on a new adventure as a journalist for our sister publication, Hinchinbrook Life.

Over the past few months, Victoria has become an excellent writer—dedicated, enthusiastic, and always going the extra mile for each story. These attributes will no doubt be invaluable moving forward, both in a career and in life.

We wish Victoria every success in the new role. This isn’t goodbye, as communication will continue daily—just not in the office, where your presence will be missed!

A big thank you to Ruth Puddefoot for mentoring Victoria. The guidance, encouragement, and knowledge shared have been truly invaluable.

As Victoria heads north, a familiar face will be heading south. Many will remember journalist Daniel Heggie, who has spent the last four months as part of the launch team for Hinchinbrook Life. Daniel will now return to the Whitsundays, where his next chapter will continue at the Whitsunday Life local office.

Be sure to say hello if you see him around next week!

We are truly blessed to have such a wonderful team here at Life Publishing. A big thank you to each staff member for making the publications so special.

Rach

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I was in the Whitsundays for a short time but a fun time, and now I am off to Hinchinbrook!

I am soon to be heading further north to write for the Hinchinbrook Life, our sister newspaper. My journey continues and I can't wait to meet everyone up there and say 'Hello!' to old friends and family.

Though I will be sad to be leaving, my hands are eager to write all the new stories I will no doubt discover.

Thank you for your inclusive community and warm kindness, I will be back to visit for sure, so I will leave off with a - In A While Crocodiles!

Victoria

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With Airlie Beach Executive Services

Since 2010, Airlie Beach Executive Services (ABES) has been redefining premium ground transport in the Whitsundays. Originally established as Island Photos, a tourism photography business, ABES evolved into a high-end transport provider after Cyclone Debbie forced a business pivot. Recognising a gap in the market for luxury transfers, ABES now delivers executive airport pickups, hotel transfers, and exclusive event transport, ensuring a seamless, stress-free experience.

Anthony Nobilia owns and operates ABES and is a Chamber Board member.

He believes that demand for luxury travel experiences will continue to rise. Key trends currently shaping the transport industry include sustainability and eco-friendly transport options, tech integration such as automated bookings and contactless payments, and strategic partnerships.

Over the last 12-months, Anthony has been focused on building brand awareness, with digital marketing and partnerships helping ABES establish itself as the go-to premium transport provider. Additionally, balancing high service standards with logistics was a challenge which has now been addressed through refined booking and dispatch systems.

Anthony offers the following advice to other business owners:

Prioritise Customer Experience – The quality of service defines your brand. Delivering beyond expectations builds loyalty and reputation.

Leverage Partnerships – Collaboration with other businesses can create valuable opportunities for growth.

Understand your business and stay adaptable – Business performance analysis keeps you aware of the needs of your business moving forward. As the market evolves, and so should your business.

As a member he believes the Whitsundays Chamber offers invaluable networking, collaboration, and insights—helping businesses stay informed, supported, and connected.

Learn more about ABES: https://abes.com.au/

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce & Industry

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Anthony Nobilia owns and operates ABES and is a Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce & Industry Board member. Photo supplied

LiveLife Pharmacy in Bowen has been faithfully serving the local community of Bowen for almost a decade with the steadfast guidance of Pharmacy Manager, Rebecca Edgerton, who also happens to be a Bowen local. Since the purchase of the pharmacy in 2016 its operating hours have increased to seven days a week.

Previously located in Gregory Street, the popular local pharmacy recently relocated, opening its doors at the new George Street location on March 18. This move marks a significant milestone for the pharmacy.

The opening of the new location was inspired by a desire to benefit all in the Bowen community. Manager Rebecca Edgerton said she was thrilled to bring this newly revitalised retail and medical service to the community.

“We wanted to refresh, revitalise, modernise and improve the flow of the pharmacy to be better able to focus on the services we provide to the community,” shared Mrs Edgerton.

The new George Street location was chosen for its convenience in the central heart of Bowen. It has excellent street frontage and is easily accessible for all. It also has the advantage of being handily located next to a medical centre and close to a dental practice, helping to create a trifecta of convenience for Bowen residents in obtaining their healthcare needs.

Mrs Edgerton also shared that the new location of the LiveLife store had previously been a pharmacy as far back as the 1950’s.

All these factors combined to allow LiveLife Pharmacy to be able to focus on what matters the most to them, serving the pharmaceutical needs of the community.

LiveLife Pharmacy provides services such as expert advice, medication reviews and packaging, blood pressure and diabetes checks, allergy relief, vaccinations and assistance with absence from work certificates.

Pharmacists at LiveLife have also been undertaking additional study under the Queensland Community Pharmacy Scope Of Practice Pilot scheme. This trial program aims to facilitate the delivery of high quality primary healthcare services for Queenslanders, particularly those who reside in rural and regional areas.

This training will allow LiveLife Pharmacy to undertake additional medical management and even prescribing activities, helping pharmacists at LiveLife to prescribe medications for certain ailments like ear infections, some skin infections, impetigo or assistance with travel health.

All of this puts Livelife Pharmacy team in a better position to expertly deliver essential primary healthcare needs to the Bowen community.

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The friendly team at Live Life Pharmacy on George Street in Bowen. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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Raising $56K For DV

More than 400 people braved the heat, humidity and threat of rain, to walk the 5km 'Epic Walk for DV' event on Sunday morning, departing from the Coral Sea Marina and standing in solidarity with those attending parallel events in the metropolitan areas of Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

Across all three events, a total of $321,339 was raised for Women’s Legal Service Queensland (WLSQ), of which more than $56,000 came from the Whitsundays that day alone.

Whitsunday MP, Amanda Camm, who is also Queensland’s Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence, said having previously attended the Brisbane event, being able to now walk with her home community was especially significant.

"It's been incredible to see over 400 members of our community register come out and raise funds for what's really critical services in supporting victims of domestic and family violence with legal services and support," she shared.

"This is a an event that's been visually spectacular, but also starts a conversation, as people are walking around talking about domestic and family violence and raising that really important awareness across our community."

Coral Sea Marina CEO, Kate Purdie, whose team co-hosted the event alongside her ‘other’ team of WLSQ fundraising ‘Dancing CEOs’ (Julie Telford - SeaLink Whitsundays, Candice Crossley - Whitsunday Transit, Alice Harriott - Whitsunday Family Dental, and team mentor, Katelyn Aslett-Collins - Taste Whitsundays), thanked the many sponsors, donors, walkers, and “all of the people who got involved today to make it a great success”.

“What an outstanding show of support we’ve had today from our local Whitsundays community – we’ve had incredible sponsors, volunteers, and so many people walking; we’ve had children, pets, families, co-workers and big teams,” she said.

“It’s been an overwhelming success and we’re so grateful to our community for showing up for women and children who are impacted by domestic violence – on behalf of the Coral Sea Marina and Dancing CEOs, thank you all so much.”

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Team Whitsundays Dancing CEOs with Amanda Camm MP. Photo credit: Phill Gordon, Riptide Creative

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Proserpine State High School has once again shown its heart, accumulating over $12,500 in this year's World Greatest Shave. One of the youngsters leading the charge was Year 12 student and School Captain, Callum Henry.

Callum, who shaved his luscious locks for the cause, raised an awe-inspiring $1,431 in support of the Leukaemia Foundation, which funds research and supports individuals impacted by blood cancers. Callum was one of five Year 12’s and among a total of 11 student and staff members who faced the clippers and braved the shave. It was not Callum’s first time participating in the fundraiser and is unlikely to be his last.

Many other students joined in on the event as well as siblings and children of staff members, there was even a father and son duo who confronted the clippers this year.

Proserpine State High was one of the first in Australia to participate in the World's Greatest Shave 25 years ago and has continued to rally and raise awareness and funds ever since, with the school raising a spectacular sum of $130,000 over the years. This grand tradition began in the name of former student Peter Cook, who tragically passed away from cancer in 1999.

Proserpine State High's Head of Department for Physical Education, Mr Andrew Cox, was in no small part responsible for the event's success.

“Cancer is not selective, everyone knows someone who has been affected by it. I am so proud of all of who have participated and given back to this worthy cause, it is part of the fabric of Proserpine State High” said Mr Cox.

Mr Cox himself lost his father to leukaemia in 2007, therefore this cause is close to his heart and he has since stood as a brightly burning beacon which inspires members of the younger generation, such as Callum, to give back to a cause greater than themselves.

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Callum Henry, from Proserpine State High School braves the clippers for the Worlds Greatest Shave. Photo Supplied

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One of my top priorities in my first year as Mayor has always been to push for real, tangible outcomes on the issues that matter most to our community—and for many years, our flood-prone road network has been right at the top of that list.

The Bruce Highway, particularly through the Goorganga Plains and Lethebrook section, has long been a pain point during heavy rainfall and flooding.

This vital stretch of highway received a $376 million funding commitment from the Federal Government several years ago. More recently, I’ve met with the new State Government to ensure this long-awaited project is prioritised.

I’m confident they’ll make good on their commitment, and it was incredibly promising to see this section specifically mentioned in their Olympic infrastructure plan last week. This gives me great hope we’ll see pre-planning and design kick off in the near future.

We are also seeing exciting progress on the Proserpine–Shute Harbour Road, Hamilton Plains Flood Immunity Upgrade. This project, jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments on a 50:50 basis, is focused on improving flood resilience by raising road levels and increasing culvert capacity, allowing floodwaters to drain more quickly and keeping the road open during wet weather.

This upgrade will deliver significant benefits for our community, particularly in keeping vital commuter, tourism and freight traffic moving during floods.

Preconstruction activities began in late 2024 and are progressing well, with this pre-construction completion expected around mid-2025.

The new open drain has already improved drainage and work is progressing with the relocation of a council water bore.

Procurement for the construction phase is already underway, tenders closed this week and if all goes to plan, construction will begin mid-year and take around 18 months to complete, weather permitting.

I know roadworks aren’t always easy or convenient, but this is about securing long-term resilience for our region. These are the kinds of investments that make our communities safer, more connected, and better prepared for the future.

There’s still work ahead, but this is the kind of momentum that turns long-term frustration into lasting results for our region.

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From The Armchair Warrior

The Federal Election has been called. The date, Saturday May 3rd.

Many political commentators are predicting a very tight race and the money is pointing to the first hung parliament since 2010. Both the major parties are saying that this is the most important election for decades and it will decide the fate of our nation’s future. Both the Prime Minister and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton have declared your vote this year to be more valuable than ever before.

The LNP wants you to ask yourself the question ‘Am I better off than 3 years ago’. While Labour’s aims is to convince you that a change of government would be worse for you, your family, and the nation.

Over the next 4 weeks expect to hear local candidates echo the messages and slogans of their party. You will be swamped with a lot of argie bargie political spin, promises and tales of why not to vote for the other guy or girl. This armchair warrior will be watching closely and breaking it down for you.

At the time of writing voters of Dawson have 5 candidates to choose from. They are current member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox for the LNP, new Labour candidate, Neil Wallace, Paula Creen having a second crack as the Green candidate, Amanda Nickson representing Family First, and Michael Lockye for Trumpet of Patriots. You will also have to vote for the Senate but we might leave that for another time. For now, let’s concentrate on what your vote in Dawson means.

Historically, the contest in Dawson has largely been between Labour and the LNP, with LNP (and Nationals prior to party merger in 2008) only losing the seat once since 1975.

Nationally, minor parties and independents have been taking votes away from the major parties in recent elections and their relevance in 2025 can not be discounted. Andrew Willcox won the 2022 election with a 2 party preferred margin of 10.42%.

While this margin appears safe and Andrew Willcox (the former Mayor of the Whitsundays) is well liked, seen by many as doing a good job representing Dawson, he can not afford to take the previous results for granted.

Federally, this election is history making. If Albanese wins, it will be the first time a Prime Minister has won two elections since John Howard in 2004, while an Albanese loss will be the first time since 1931 that a first term government has not been returned.

The Canberra heavys have outlined their credentials, their promises, their ambitions for the nation, and are hitting the campaign trail hard to win your vote. Reality is while Dawson has 5 local candidates, the federal outcome will either see Anthony Albanese returned as prime Minister or a new government under Peter Dutton, albeit one of these might be leading a minority government.

Good luck to all the Candidates.

Best wishes, from the Armchair.

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When was the last time you reviewed the health of your home loan?

Whether you’re in the market for a first or second home, looking to refinance, invest in a new property, or lower your repayments, a home loan health check could be just what you need to get ahead and realise your goals.

Amanda Anderson, Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine’s Branch Manager says there are four things to review annually when it comes to your home loan:

Interest Rate: Check if your current interest rate is competitive. If interest rates have dropped since you took out the loan or if you're on a variable rate and it's rising, you may want to consider refinancing to secure a better rate.

Loan Term: Evaluate the remaining term of your loan. A long loan term might mean you're paying more interest over time, but reducing it can help you pay off your mortgage faster and save on interest. If your financial situation has improved, it might be worth considering a loan with a shorter term.

Repayment Flexibility: Review your repayment options and whether your loan allows for extra repayments, redraws, or repayment holidays. This flexibility can be crucial if your income fluctuates or if you want to pay off your loan faster without penalty.

Fees and Charges: Examine any ongoing fees or hidden charges associated with your loan. Some loans come with annual fees, account-keeping fees, or early repayment penalties that could add up over time. Understanding these costs helps you assess whether you're getting value for money.

“By looking at these areas, giving your home loan a full check-up, you can make sure it's still right for you and your current needs and goals,” said Amanda.

“Right across Australia, our customers are sharing stories of home loan savings,” said Amanda “Such as the Cox family who saved just over $5,300 in their first year of their home loan. They made the switch to Bendigo Bank because they wanted to go with a community focused bank that offered all the big bank services.”

Did you know? Bendigo Bank home loan customers are the most satisfied in Australia, a survey of more than 45,000 Australians across the nation’s 10 largest banks has found. New findings released by Roy Morgan show Bendigo Bank had the highest home loan customer satisfaction rate in the six months to December last year, sitting at 87.7%.

If you’re ready to talk home loans, or just want to know more about what you can expect when the time is right, Amanda and the Bendigo Community Bank team are happy to help. The team are experienced lenders and understand both the excitement and challenges that come with buying a home.

Call in and see Amanda and the team today at the Branch at Whitsunday Plaza Cannonvale, call (07) 4948 3599, or email cannonvale&proserpinemailbox@bendigoadelaide.com.au

Bendigo Bank – the better big bank.

(Terms and conditions, fees, charges and lending criteria apply.)

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R U OK?’s Conversation Convoy is coming to the Whitsundays region, aimed at raising awareness for suicide prevention and offering an opportunity for the community to come together, learn, and show support. The convoy will be parked up on the hill by the Coral Sea Marina carpark, on April 6th from 4:30pm to 7pm.

Matt Stokes of the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network highlights the significance of this event, saying, “It’s a great reminder for our friends, and asking that one important little question.” He continues, “We’re all going through something and asking that question opens up the door for the conversation they need to have.”

The event offers a chance for individuals to learn, engage, and ask questions in a relaxed setting. It will feature a caravan display, presentations, games, free resources, and a BBQ, with hot drinks and a free sausage sizzle available. Families, friends, and colleagues are encouraged to attend, whether to learn how to support others or to seek help themselves.

The R U OK? Convoy is part of a nationwide initiative to equip regional Australians with the knowledge and tools to start vital conversations around mental health. As it’s not always easy to keep the conversation going when someone says they’re not OK, but it could change a life.

Bring along your loved ones or just yourself, grab a free sausage, chat over a game of checkers, watch the sunset and come together to support the message of hope and help in a safe space.

WHAT: R U OK? Conversation Convoy
WHEN: Sunday, April 6th from 4:30pm to 7pm
WHERE: Coral Sea Marina, 1-3 Shingley Drive, Top Carpark

The Conversation Convoy. Photo Sourced: R U OK?'s website

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The Zonta Club of Bowen hosted a successful fundraiser on Thursday the 20th of March at Bowen's quaint and iconic Summergarden Theatre. One of the longest continually operating theatres in Queensland, our local cinema has been the cornerstone of the community’s entertainment scene since its opening in 1948 and is now  owned and operated by the town's very own Ben DeLuca since 1962.

The fundraiser featured a special screening of the heartwarming Australian film “What About Sal?” , written and directed by renowned actor and filmmaker John Jarrat. The film presents the touching and inspiring story of Sal, a man with Down Syndrome who embarks on a quest to find his unnamed father after learning of his mothers illness

This memorable evening included more than just a movie, guests enjoyed a delightful supper and complimentary champagne creating an enjoyable social atmosphere. Guests were also encouraged to wear mismatched or colourful socks as a playful act of support in order to raise awareness for Down Syndrome

The night was a testament to the strong relationship between the Zonta Club of Bowen and Summergarden Theatre owner Ben De Luca.

“We work with many charities in Bowen and we love the Zonta Club, they are a good mob, very organised. We host them regularly, even multiple times a year” said Mr De Luca.

Funds collected from this unforgettable evening directly support the Zonta Club of Bowen’s unwavering commitment and continued efforts in empowering and improving the lives of girls and women both locally and globally.

The club expressed their gratitude to Mr De Luca and attendees of the event, emphasising the importance of such events in bringing communities together and promoting awareness within them. Residents interested in supporting future Zonta Club Bowen initiatives or future events at Bowen Summergarden Theatres can follow them on their respective social media accounts.

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Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, has announced that if he is re-elected in May this year, $250,000 will be committed towards upgrades to the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre, ensuring it can continue delivering vital services in a safe, modern, and accessible space.

“The Bowen Neighbourhood Centre provides essential support to people facing difficult circumstances, offering essential services that enhance dignity, wellbeing, and quality of life for people across the region,” Mr Willcox said.

“From providing assistance with housing and legal matters to supporting those affected by domestic violence, the centre is a critical lifeline for many in need. Every day, the dedicated staff and volunteers make an enormous difference in the lives of people across the community.” Mr Wilcox said that's he's dedicated "to strengthening regional communities, supporting local services, and ensuring that every Australian has access to the help they need when they need it most.”

John Finlay, Treasurer of the Bowen Community Centre said, “This is a fantastic announcement for the Bowen community." He sees this promise as a great opportunity to realise their vision for the future of the building itself, and the services they could help provide to the Bowen community.

“Once the building refurbishments are complete, this will open the door to allowing other community groups to use the upgraded facilities," commented John. “We are seeing a lot more domestic violence cases, which is really concerning. Cost of living is also a big issue, and we are seeing people of all ages and backgrounds needing help for the very first time. But we have an incredible team of highly trained staff who stand ready to provide crucial support services."

Once the centre is open John says that they “plan to also offer the spaces to corporate organisations for training and the good thing about that is any funds that come in will be put back into the Bowen Community Centre." The Neighbourhood Centre will to continue to operate as normal until then, so if you require any of their helpful services do not hesitate to drop by 34/38 Gregory St, Bowen QLD or give them a call at: 07 4786 2111.

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Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Wilcox and Councillor John Finlay, Treasurer of the Bowen Community Centre with the dedicated staff of the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre. Photon supplied

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Friday night was a shining moment for BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort, as the team proudly
claimed Gold in the Caravan & Holiday Parks category at the national Qantas Australian Tourism Awards in Adelaide.

This remarkable win marks the third consecutive year that BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort has taken home Gold in this category, officially securing its place in the prestigious Australian Tourism Awards Hall of Fame.

With 185 entries over 26 categories, BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort was one of six out of 24 Queensland tourism operators who won gold at the national awards, with eight outstanding
operators from across Australia vying for the top spot in the Caravan and Holiday Parks category.

Owner Greg McKinnon, who attended the gala event with some of his team, expressed immense pride over the national recognition.

“Winning three years in a row and being inducted into the Hall of Fame is far beyond what we’d
imagined, particularly when we are competing against the best Holiday Parks in the country. The
competition in our category was outstanding, so we are extremely honoured to accept this gold
award, while also entering the Hall of Fame on an Australian level.

“This national win again highlights our dedication to setting industry benchmarks, consistently
delivering top-tier facilities, exceptional customer service and unforgettable family holidays. We’ll
continue striving for excellence, while incorporating some exciting new developments in the near future which our guests will love and which will only enhance their overall experience,” said Greg.

Cementing its place as one of Australia’s most celebrated holiday destinations, the national Hall of Fame status follows the resort’s recent induction into the state and local Hall of Fame after winning gold for three consecutive years in the same category at the Queensland and Whitsunday Tourism Awards, reflecting BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort’s unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and outstanding guest experiences.

CEO, Phil Casey, who also attended the national awards ceremony, praised the dedication of the resort’s team and the unwavering support of guests.

“We’re fortunate to have so many fun-loving guests who choose to stay with us, many returning
year after year, so needless to say we extend a huge thank you to our guests who continue to
share their holidays with us. This award is also a reflection of our incredible team’s hard work, both front and back of house, to create unforgettable holiday memories,” said Phil.
As one of Australia’s most loved holiday parks, BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort is a testament to exceptional experiences, recently celebrating 31 years of ownership by the McKinnon family and offering extensive facilities for families, caravanners and groups to enjoy a Whitsunday holiday like no other.

Guests can enjoy over 15 onsite activities, including the huge mega waterslide park, lagoon-style pool, mini golf, jumping pillows, outdoor cinema, Kid’s Club, and year-round activities program. The resort provides easy access to the Great Barrier Reef, Whitehaven Beach, the Whitsunday Islands, and a host of unforgettable Australian holiday experiences.

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The BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort team take home gold for the third consecutive year at the Australian Tourism Awards. Photo supplied

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The Whitsundays’ original and most awarded tour operator, Ocean Rafting, is stoked to take the podium and be recognised amongst Australia’s best tourism operators.

Since 1984, the Australian tourism Awards have long been the nation’s premier recognition of excellence in the tourism industry. Ocean Rafting joined the nation’s best in the beautiful Adelaide and is beyond thrilled to be taking home a Bronze in the “Major Tour & Transport Operator”category in the 2024 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards.

Peter and Jan Claxton, the proud owners of Ocean Rafting for 28 years, along with Nathan their Sales & Marketing Captain of 13 years, were overjoyed to represent the family-owned business at the awards ceremony in Adelaide. Their heartfelt gratitude went to their passionate team, dedicated family members, and loyal guests, whose support has been pivotal to their ongoing success.

Peter shared, “A huge thank you to all our team, both past and present, who share our passion for tourism and showcasing nature's wonders. We are proud to continue stepping onto the podium and winning awards like this for all those who have made Ocean Rafting what it is today”.

“Additionally, I would like to thank all our guests who have enjoyed a day out, whether that be on the water or in the air, in the last 28 years of operations”, said Pete

Jan added, “These awards are for our team, as much as they’re for us, so cheers to us, and cheers to the team”.

Three generations of family and almost three decades as one of the Whitsundays’ most loved on-water experiences, Ocean Rafting’s mission is still to treat every day as if it was the one and only day their guests will experience Ocean Rafting and the Whitsundays’; and this has attributed to the company’s long-term success and thriving growth over the years.

The team would also like to thank Australian Tourism Awards for facilitating these awards and their continued support for our industry. Additionally, we would like to raise our glasses to all the fellow operators and local businesses for their much-deserved recognition and awards.

Beyond their remarkable history of providing unforgettable on-water experiences, Ocean Rafting is equally committed to the environmental sector by participating in the Tourism Reef Protection Initiative and starting our very own initiative, “Tins 4 Fins,” to fund beach cleans and additional research, ensuring we protect this beautiful part of the world.

Ocean Rafting’s reputation speaks for itself and is recognised with a perfect score as Best of Queensland Experience under the national quality tourism framework along with a Quality Tourism accreditation. Additionally, Ocean Rafting is the recipient of a TripAdvisor Travellers Choice Award for being in the top 10% of attractions worldwide every year since 2012 and a TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best award winner in the Top 1% of Tourism Businesses around the world and Top 10 Experiences in Australia.

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Ocean Rafting Peter and Jan Claxton with Sales & Marketing Captain Nathan Fleming at the Australian Tourism Awards which were held in Adelaide last weekend. Photo supplied

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Last week, the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry launched its Advisory Group, bringing together regional business leaders to drive strategic discussions and strengthen the united voice of the Whitsunday business community.

“The Advisory Group will serve as a strategic think tank, reinforcing the Chamber’s position as the ‘go-to’ source of regional business expertise for all levels of government,” said Chamber President Allan Milostic.

In its inaugural meeting, the Advisory Group reinforced the need to tackle pressing business challenges, including red tape reduction, road quality and safety, and workforce availability and productivity.

Looking ahead, the group encouraged the Chamber to explore future-focused initiatives such as championing tradies, supporting young entrepreneurs, establishing special interest groups to advise on specific issues and precincts, and strengthening the region’s support of a university hub and research centres.

Queensland Small Business Month event

Registrations are now open for the Chamber’s Queensland Small Business Month event to be held 7:30am-9:00am Thursday 13 May in Airlie Beach.

Guest speakers include Dominique Lamb, Queensland Small Business Commissioner and Mayor Ry Collins. They will explore the following with the region’s business community, including ways we can increase collaboration to drive positive change:

Election Promise Report Card – Progress updates on road improvements, red tape reduction, and small business priorities.

Lessons from TC Alfred – Exploring the impact of recent weather events and strategies for future resilience.

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L-R Andrew and Jaide Paranomos (McDonalds), Judy Porter (Shiift), Julia Wheway (TAFE Queensland), Bernadette Porter (Proserpine State High School), Mark Henry (Bendigo Community Bank), Adrian Bram (WCBIA) and Allan Milostic

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Last week, I was on the road championing our incredible region on a national stage.

It was an honour to Chair my first Queensland Regional Tourism Network (QRTN) meeting on Monday, where we discussed how we can work together to strengthen tourism across the state. I’m looking forward to the year ahead and what we can achieve as a collective.

Next stop: the RTO Forum, which brought together tourism marketing organisations from across the country. We had insightful presentations from Tourism Australia on emerging travel trends, discussion panels on data and social media, and guest speakers covering everything from AI to innovative ways to gather new tourism insights. These conversations shape how we market our region and ensure we stay ahead of the curve.

From there, Laura and I travelled to Adelaide with Marianne from Whitsundays Regional Council to visit six Phil Hoffmann Travel stores, South Australia’s leading travel agency brand. As a business, we had the opportunity to train approximately 40 travel agents on The Whitsundays, providing key updates on attractions and experiences. With the direct Jetstar flight from Adelaide to Whitsunday Coast Airport, we’re working hard to make sure South Australians have The Whitsundays at the top of their travel list.

Finally, I was lucky enough to attend the 2024 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards on Friday night, where The Whitsundays absolutely shone! A massive congratulations again to BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort, Pinnacles Airlie Beach, and Ocean Rafting for taking home gold, silver, and bronze. These achievements help keep The Whitsundays on the map and reinforce why our region is such a special place to visit.

Contributed by Tim Booth, CEO, Tourism Whitsundays

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As Mayor of the Whitsundays, I hear firsthand from residents about the challenges they face every day. One of the most pressing concerns I continue to hear, time and time again, is the shortage of doctors in our region.

Right now, too many people in our community are struggling to get a timely appointment with a GP. Families, seniors, and workers are waiting weeks, sometimes even months, for basic medical care.

This is simply not good enough. Our residents deserve access to quality healthcare, no matter where they live.

With the federal election on the horizon, I am calling on all sides of politics to commit to better GP funding and real solutions to bring more doctors to regional communities like ours.

The Whitsundays is a growing region. More people are choosing to call our beautiful part of the world home, and we are experiencing record-breaking tourism numbers. But our healthcare system is not keeping pace.

I’ve spoken to local GP clinics, and the reality is clear—they are at capacity. Some have closed their books to new patients. Others simply don’t have enough doctors to meet the demand. This puts enormous pressure on our hospital system, forcing people to seek emergency care for issues that should be treated in a GP clinic.

Regional communities like ours should not have to compete with big cities to attract doctors. We need better funding models and incentives to encourage more medical professionals to live and work in places like the Whitsundays.

I am advocating for stronger federal government investment in regional healthcare, including a commitment to medical workforce planning, ensuring that regional Australia is not left behind when it comes to doctor shortages.

The Whitsundays is a world-class destination and a fantastic place to live. But access to quality healthcare is not a luxury—it’s a basic right.

As Mayor, I will continue to push for these critical changes in the lead-up to the election. I encourage our community to make their voices heard by asking your local candidates where they stand on regional healthcare, and demand action.

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If you're looking for a peaceful escape, Whitsunday Gold Coffee is the perfect place. The plantation is famous for its locally grown coffee, and there’s nothing like sipping a cup made from beans grown right there on the property. Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast or just looking to relax, it’s a wonderful experience.

I thoroughly enjoyed chatting with the owner, Nikki, who is currently in the process of upgrading their aviary with new mesh and creating a serene nursery with a seated area. The charm of the plantation is undeniable. I can’t wait to see the finished space, it’s sure to become a fantastic spot for birdwatching and taking in the surrounding beauty.

For families, there’s an indoor play area and beautifully decorated kids' party rooms, making it a great place to bring the little ones.

I was also lucky enough to try one of Chef-Gus's incredible signature dishes; a mango and calamari salad. It was light, colourful, and packed with flavour, with tender calamari and fresh local mango.

Whitsunday Gold Coffee Plantation is a true treasure for Proserpine, offering a peaceful sanctuary to enjoy great coffee, delicious food, and nature. Whether you're stopping by for a coffee or a quiet day out, it's definitely worth the visit.

Contributed by Jade Yvonne, Business Development Executive, Tourism Whitsundays

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Hi Everyone,

Thank you to everyone sharing stories for the paper. This week, we’re featuring some exciting whale research.

Whales hold a special place in my heart. Last year’s whale season gave me so many incredible moments, but one that stands out is hearing whale songs while scuba diving.

Happy reading!

Ruth

“Acknowledging the good that you already have in your life is the foundation for all abundance.” ― Eckhart Tolle, A New Earth

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Everyone in the community is invited to come on down to Coral Sea Marina at 7.30am this Sunday for the inaugural Whitsunday Epic Walk for DV. Bring your walking shoes, dress in your active wear, grab your kids and your dogs, and get your mind and your body moving for a good cause.

Organisers are encouraging participants to walk and talk as a group, creating a steady flow of conversation to start connecting about the important topic of domestic and family violence in our communities.

THIS SUNDAY, 7.30am, CORAL SEA MARINA GARDENS
EVERYONE WELCOME!

Team Whitsundays Host Inaugural Epic Walk

Over the past six months four local businesswomen-turned Dancing CEOs – Kate Purdie (Coral Sea Marina), Julie Telford (SeaLink Whitsundays), Candice Crossley (Whitsunday Transit) and Alice Harriott (Whitsunday Family Dental) – along with their team mentor, Katelyn Aslett-Collins (Taste Whitsundays) – have been building a movement to raise funds and awareness for Women’s Legal Service Queensland (WLSQ), an organisation that helps women and children escape domestic violence and reclaim their lives.

It was two former Dancing CEOs – Brendan Smith (Network Ten) and Brendon Mann (Epic Hair Designs) – who founded the Epic Walk for DV.

“The entire meaning behind this is gathering as a community,” Brendan Smith explained.

“We always say ‘it takes a village’ to either solve a problem or to raise awareness, and the Epic Walk for DV is about starting that conversation around domestic and family violence, getting rid of the stigma that’s attached to it – and of course raising as much money for WLSQ as we can,” he said.

Coral Sea Marina CEO, Kate Purdie, stressed the walk was epic in name rather than nature, and therefore open to all of the community regardless of fitness levels or age.

“This scenic walk along the Bicentennial Boardwalk will be two laps from the marina gardens to VMR and back; it’s a community event and we invite you to bring your friends, your workmates and your family along,” she said.

“The important thing is that rain or shine, we get as many people together as possible to unite in a visible show of support for women and children impacted by domestic violence.”

Participants are asked to sign up for the walk at www.epicwalkfordv.com.au - either as individuals or with friends, family, or colleagues as fundraising teams.

Kids and fur-kids all walk free, however the registration fee of $24 per adult covers a purple ‘Epic Walk’ T-shirt and a sausage sizzle cooked up by the Airlie Beach Rotary Club, with food supplied by Woolworths Cannonvale.

Walkers can muster in the marina gardens from 6.30am, with hot coffee available thanks to Chasing Te Ra. A pre-walk warm-up by Maggie Spark (Spark Life) will get everyone in the groove, while the kids (and big kids) receive their free bubble sticks courtesy of Big W.

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The Whitsundays shone brightly at the Australian Tourism Awards which were held in Adelaide last weekend, with three local businesses receiving national accolades.

Raising the profile of the Whitsundays on a national stage, these local businesses are leading the way for local tourism and shining a spotlight on our region.

The illustrious awards ceremony at the Adelaide Convention Centre in South Australia celebrated four decades of tourism excellence while showcasing the industry's finest.

Tim Booth, CEO of Tourism Whitsundays says it was an incredible night for The Whitsundays:

"Winning Gold, Silver, and Bronze across different categories shows just how amazing our tourism offerings are. I couldn't be prouder of our operators and seeing BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort winning gold was definitely a highlight.

“These awards aren't just trophies on a shelf, they represent the heart and soul that our tourism businesses pour into creating unforgettable memories for visitors. It's this dedication that keeps people coming back to The Whitsundays time and again."

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins congratulated BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort, Pinnacles, and Ocean Rafting for doing the region proud.

"Tourism is the beating heart of The Whitsundays economy, and these national awards highlight the strength and resilience of our industry.

“Being recognised on such a prestigious platform showcases the outstanding work being done by our local businesses and sends a clear message – The Whitsundays is not just a beautiful place to visit, it’s a leader in Australian tourism."

This remarkable achievement across all three medal tiers reinforces The Whitsundays status as a premier tourism destination and highlights the exceptional experiences awaiting visitors to this stunning part of Queensland.

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Sustainable Aviation Fuel has officially landed at Whitsunday Coast Airport. Mayor Ry Collins says it is “the perfect fit” for a region shaped by the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef and driven by a passion for protecting it.

Made from renewable resources like waste oils and crop residues, SAF cuts carbon emissions without compromising performance — marking a major step towards cleaner, greener air travel in the Whitsundays.

Mayor Collins praised Virgin Australia and Viva Energy for their leadership in the aviation industry and for recognising the Whitsundays as an ideal location to showcase the benefits of SAF.

“It makes absolute sense that Virgin Australia would choose Whitsunday Coast Airport as the launch site for its first ongoing SAF-powered services,” Mayor Collins said.

“We are located in one of the most pristine and ecologically significant regions in the world, and as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, we have a responsibility to embrace innovative solutions that reduce our environmental footprint.

“The Whitsundays region has long been a leader in biodiversity initiatives, with strong community-driven efforts to protect its reefs, marine life, and natural landscapes.

"The adoption of SAF at Whitsunday Coast Airport is a significant step forward in the broader sustainability journey.

“Virgin Australia and Viva Energy should be commended for their commitment to driving positive change in aviation."

Whitsunday Coast Airport CEO Craig Turner emphasised the importance of maintaining a balance between economic growth and environmental responsibility.

“500,000 plus passengers transit through our airport each year, and with tourism as the backbone of our economy, we need to do everything possible to protect the very natural wonders that draw people here in the first place,” he said.

“The introduction of Sustainable Aviation Fuel is an important milestone in reducing aviation-related carbon emissions, and Whitsunday Coast Airport is proud to be at the forefront of this transition in Australia.”

Mr Turner credited the strong partnerships between Whitsunday Coast Airport, Virgin Australia, and Viva Energy as the driving force behind securing this national first for the region.

“This partnership between Virgin Australia, Viva Energy, and Whitsunday Coast Airport is a testament to the close relationships we have with our airline partners and stakeholders,” he said.

Virgin Australia has entered an agreement with Viva Energy to obtain Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) for its services departing from Whitsunday Coast Airport, marking a significant milestone as the first major Australian airline to use SAF on an ongoing basis at a commercial airport in the country.

Viva Energy’s General Manager for Aviation, Nick Adams, said the initiative would help establish the supply chains needed for SAF to become more widely available across regional Australia.

“It is clear that SAF is going to play a bigger role for commercial airlines in this country as they move towards a more sustainable future,” Mr Adams said.

“Through this collaboration – and drawing on the strengths of Viva Energy’s national distribution network and experience with high-quality fuels and aviation operations – we will be working with Virgin Australia to establish the supply chains that will be critical to the future of the aviation industry.”

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Left to right:  Amy Humphries WCA Acting Operations Manager, Shaun Cawood Manager Aviation, Tourism, Marine, Craig Turner Director Commercial Business, Daniel Dott (Virgin), David Mann (VIVA), Greg Atkin (VIVA), Robert Cavicchiolo (VIVA), Michael Nixon WCA. Photo supplied

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Pinnacles Airlie beach is, as their name suggests, taking tourism to new pinnacles both in the Whitsundays and right across Australia. Last weekend they took their place on the podium among Australia's top tourism operators, proudly taking home the Silver medal in the “Self Contained Accommodation Category in the prestigious 2024 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards in Adelaide.

Since inception, these awards have stood as the pinnacle of excellence across Australia's vibrant and thriving tourism sector. Pinnacles Marketing Manager, Therese Moran, expressed her elation over the victory.

“We came home with the silver, we are over the moon and extremely proud to be recognised on a national level for the hard work and dedication of our small team, it's really all been about their commitment to delivering a wonderful holiday experience” said Ms Moran.

Managers of 14 years Susan Watson and Brent Jones expressed great gratitude towards their dedicated staff, loyal guests and the broader Whitsundays community as a whole.

Overlooking Airlie Beach and providing guests with lavish, fully self-contained apartments which have sweeping views across the Coral seas, Pinnacles continues its commitment to offering exceptional relaxation as the gateway to the iconic Whitsunday Islands and Great Barrier Reef.

The Pinnacles team also congratulates fellow operators honoured at the Australian Tourism Awards, showing their appreciation of the collective spirit which elevates tourism within the Whitsundays and across Australia as a whole.

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Pinnacles Marketing Manager, Therese Moran, with fellow staff member, Lee, holding their award. Photo supplied

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March 30 1925 was a significant date in the history of the Proserpine Ambulance. On this day, a meeting was held at which Superintendent of the Mackay Ambulance, Mr Culverhouse, announced that the Mackay Centre had decided to make Proserpine an Honorary Centre. This marked a turning point for the town and its district after years of efforts to establish a much-needed service.

Fourteen years earlier, an ambulance centre was established in Proserpine by Mr W Morse, Superintendent of the Mackay Ambulance Brigade towards the end of November 1911. The first meeting was held in December with President Mr W Waite; Vice-President Mr F H Cross; Secretary Mr J Nancarrow and Treasurer Mr R Taggart.

It was twelve months before the first annual meeting was held (February 1913). At this meeting, Mackay Centre announced that it was prepared to advance £60 for the erection of a casualty room and a place to keep the litter (a stretcher used to carry injured or sick patients).

All seemed to be progressing very well so the Mackay Centre was approached to supply a sulky with rubber tyres. However, by April 1913, the ambulance was defunct and funds were transferred to the Proserpine Hospital to be given to the ambulance should it become active again. This would be another twelve years!

When the honorary centre was finally announced, a provisional committee was formed with Mr W Worthington as Chairman and Mr T Treacy as honorary bearer. Local chemist, Mr Harkness, offered to lend his car for brigade transport. Tom Treacy had been a bearer in World War One and recognised the need for a first aid post in the town. He had an Ashford litter at the mill and was always available for those needing attention.

There was division in the town as to the need for an ambulance centre. Some were sceptical because of the previous failed attempts; some felt the town was already keeping a hospital with doctor and staff; others pointed out that with 100 cars in the district any one of the owners would be prepared to help and then there was the concern about an amateur instead of a doctor attending a case. There was also opposition to the committee with the suggestion that certain people wanted to make themselves important. But thanks to the efforts of Tom Treacy, the townspeople came to realise the need for an ambulance centre.

The committee worked hard and by May 30 there were 98 subscribers. The government was approached about purchasing land and a quarter of an acre belonging to the mill, facing Main Street was made available. In October, it was announced that a car, an Overland, would be purchased and a temporary shed erected to house it.

In April 1926, Mill Manager, Mr Murray Gibson, officially opened the building and the centre progressed despite opposition to committee members by some of the public. The volume of work eventually necessitated erection of a two-storey building in Chapman Street on land donated by Mr Jupp. This was opened in mid 1931.

The ambulance continued as a sub-centre until January 1934 when it was taken over by a local committee as a full centre responsible for the area from Mikoolu in the south to Longford Creek in the north and embraced all the islands and west to the Clarke Range. Over the years, committee members worked tirelessly to maintain this service in the district.

Fast forward to January 28 1998 and a new centre was opened on land adjacent to the building that had served the district for 66 years.

Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum

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Hi Everyone,

It’s not every day that we have multiple stories vying for the front page of this newspaper, but this week is definitely one of those occasions!

Even in our low-key little region, we still manage to make state, national, and even global headlines from time to time.

This week, we made international news with the incredible announcement that some of the 2032 Brisbane Olympics will be hosted right here in the Whitsundays!

This means world-class sailors will compete in our turquoise waters, tens of thousands will flock to the Whitsundays to spectate, and we can all look forward to an electrifying atmosphere during the event.

Equally exciting for our region—and for our state—is the funding that host locations will receive in preparation for the Olympics.

Our region is now part of a dedicated funding stream, and in the lead-up to the event, our sporting complexes may be upgraded, brand new facilities could be built, and infrastructure improved.

These assets will serve as legacy pieces that will benefit the region for generations to come, and this is wonderful news for all of us.

This week, our region also made national headlines when three local tourism operators brought home accolades from the Australian Tourism Awards, held in Adelaide over the weekend.

A huge congratulations to the winners, and also to everyone who entered the awards. Every spotlight on the region helps boost our vibrant tourism industry.

Finally, one little team here in the Whitsundays is certainly making waves—and soon, those waves will become "dance moves" when they compete in the 'Dancing CEOs' competition in Brisbane this May, performing in front of over 1,000 people.

This weekend, they are hosting the inaugural Epic Walk for DV. Make sure you head down to Coral Sea Marina on Sunday morning to take part in this important movement!

Rach

Quote of the week: "If you’re not making waves, you’re not under weigh” (Chester Nimitz)

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Big things are developing in Bowen, and the Whitsunday Regional Council wants your say on the future of the foreshore.

Mayor Ry Collins said the Masterplan presents exceptional possibilities for the area - “This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform Bowen’s foreshore into a vibrant, well-connected destination,” Mayor Collins said. “By defining priorities for staged delivery, we aim to improve public spaces while attracting investment that benefits both locals and visitors.”

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy, said the public consultation was an important step for Bowen's future.

“An upgrade and beautification of the area, all the way to Bowen Harbour, would be great for both tourists and locals." She said, “We encourage everyone to attend the consultation sessions and participate in the survey so the Whitsunday Regional Council can understand what people would like to see in this area.”

The Foreshore Masterplan is a critical component of Bowen’s growth strategy. Before the works begin, have your say on what you think Bowen needs by sharing your insights via the online survey below or attending upcoming consultation events to help shape the Masterplan.

You can be part of guiding the design and development of projects that will benefit the community for generations to come. Help set an aspirational vision for the Bowen Foreshore, to inspire and define priorities for public space upgrades that enhance vibrancy and liveability of Bowen over 15+ years.

Bowen Markets Information Stall, Hansen Park, Sunday 30 March, 7am-12pm.
Bowen Centre Point Plaza Information Stall, Richmond Road, Thursday 3 April, 12pm-4:30pm.

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The Proserpine Entertainment Centre is planning ahead for next year and they want to hear from you! PEC, with the Whitsunday Regional Council, have released an entertainment questionnaire to find out what the community wants to see most coming to the Whitsundays in 2026.

The survey has options to choose what type of acts and activities you would like to see being brought to the PEC From music concerts to comedy nights, there’s options across the broad spectrum of talented live acts the PEC could provide and host. Theatre, dance, magic, seminars, and interactive experiences, your feedback will help shape the future line-up. And it’s not just about live shows, they want to know what movies you want to see too!

Check out the QR Code, it will take you directly to the survey page or visit the Whitsunday Regional Councils website and tell them exactly what live shows and performances you would love to see at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre. The PEC is all about creating unforgettable entertainment experiences right here in the Whitsundays. The survey closes April 30th, so have your say today!

https://yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/proserpine-entertainment-centre-community-feedback-questionnaire

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A group of local children has shown an incredible sense of generosity and community spirit at a young age. With their hearts in the right place, they raised nearly $100 from selling old toys to donate to the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network. It’s a beautiful reminder of how even the smallest acts of kindness can make a meaningful difference.

Rather than spending the money on lollies for themselves, these kids chose to donate the $97.05 toward a cause that impacts their community in a powerful way. Their decision to donate the funds demonstrates maturity and compassion beyond their years.

This is just the beginning for these young changemakers with their next project already in the works - A deliciously enticing cupcake stall aimed at raising even more funds. It’s exciting to think about the positive impact they will continue to have as they grow and develop, fuelled by a mindset rooted in giving back.

Locals couldn't help but feel inspired by their initiative, with many just stopping by to drop off a fiver to their stall. It’s a bright future ahead for them who are already making a difference, the young children’s sense of community and responsibility truly shines. Thank you for fundraising for such an important cause!

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Local children selling their old toys to raise money for the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network. Photo Sourced: Rob Murphy's Facebook Page.

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The Whitsunday Regional Council want to inform the community about a recent scam involving a fraudulent QR code on a parking meter in Airlie Beach. The code directs users to enter their credit card details, which is part of a scam. If you've scanned a QR code on a parking meter recently, we strongly encourage you to check your bank statements for any unauthorised transactions.

Please be aware that Airlie Beach uses ticketless parking machines and only accept coin payments or direct card payments at their machines, and do not require the scanning of any QR codes.

To ensure a safe and easy parking experience, the Council recommend using the official EasyPark app, which allows you to manage your parking payments online securely. Simply download the free EasyPark app today via: http://app.easypark.net or through your device’s app store to avoid being caught out by scams like this.

The Council urges everyone to use official payment methods and to be vigilant about potential scams. If you believe you have fallen victim to fraudulent activity or spot another QR code on another parking meter, please report it to Council immediately to help protect the community.

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The affected parking meter at the beach-side parking lot, near the Airlie Beach Lagoon.
For the close up image. Photo sourced: Whitsunday Regional Council Facebook page.
For the wide-shot. Photo sourced: Google Maps.

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It has been relatively quiet this week for the team of the Whitsunday Volunteer Marine Rescue. But the WVMR team are always ready, waiting for that extra loud, special ringtone that signifies an emergency call, and someone needing their assistance. Shane, President of the WVMR, recounts an incident where even though they weren't initially activated, they were ready to respond.

Shane and his wife were enjoying the view on their patio one late afternoon when a strange incident caused Shane to reach for his binoculars. Out in the Airlie anchorage, a puff of smoke erupted from the stern of a yacht and as he zoomed in, Shane could see someone panicking as orange flames began to spread. As his wife called triple zero, Shane recalled a calming pause before all broke lose.

“While I watched in horror, in the gloom of dusk, an explosion and fire ball erupted.”

With the fire on the horizon, the world seemed to spring into action. The water police’s semirigid vessel suddenly appeared with sirens and lights blazing, powering through the water at top speed through the anchorage. Then the fire engines arrived at the Whitsunday Sailing Club, but they couldn't help being stuck on shore.

Shane grabbed his phone and called WVMR’s controller to ask if they had been activated. “No,” came the reply, but Shane was ready to act - “Ok, get a crew together urgently because we will be, there’s a boat on fire and people in the water.” He was out of the door and arrived at the VMR1 just as another fire engine arrived with portable pumps.

Skipper Ken took the WVMR team and the Firefighters out at emergency speed towards the anchored yacht. When we arrived, it was ablaze stem to stern. Luckily the Police had picked up the people from the water and all witnessed as the fibreglass blazed, they watched the mast collapse into the flames spreading rigging everywhere.

With Ken shouting guidance, Shane backed up the VMR1 as close as they dared, remaining upwind of the burning vessel. The wire rigging in the water was a major hazard because if it were to foul their props, they would be immobilised dangerously close to the fire.

The burning hull of the yacht was sinking and as the fire reached the waterline, it quietly slipped under. There was charred flotsam, but not too much pollution and Shane recounted it was an event of great exhilaration.

If you would like some excitement in your life, while doing a great community service, visit vmrwhitsundays.com.au/volunteer/

Contributed with thanks by Shane Newell, VMRW President.

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The Whitsundays’ original and most awarded tour operator, Ocean Rafting, is stoked to take the podium and be recognised amongst Australia’s best tourism operators. Since 1984, the Australian tourism Awards have long been the nation’s premier recognition of excellence in the tourism industry. Ocean Rafting joined the nation’s best in the beautiful Adelaide and is beyond thrilled to be taking home a Bronze in the “Major Tour & Transport Operator” category in the 2024 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards.

Peter and Jan Claxton, the proud owners of Ocean Rafting for 28 years, along with Nathan their Sales & Marketing Captain of 13 years, were overjoyed to represent the family-owned business at the awards ceremony in Adelaide. Their heartfelt gratitude went to their passionate team, dedicated family members, and loyal guests,  whose support has been pivotal to their ongoing success.

Peter shared, “A huge thank you to all our team, both past and present, who share our passion for tourism and showcasing natures wonders. We are proud to continue stepping onto the podium and winning awards like this for all those who have made Ocean Rafting what it is today”. Pete added, “Additionally, I would like to thank all our guests who have enjoyed a day out, whether that be on the water or in the air, in the last 28 years of operations” Jan shared the sentiment, “These awards are for our team, as much as they’re for us, so cheers to us, and cheers to the team”.

Three generations of family and almost three decades as one of the Whitsundays’ most loved on-water experiences, Ocean Rafting’s mission is still to treat every day as if it was the one and only day their guests will experience Ocean Rafting and the Whitsundays’; and this has attributed to the company’s long-term success and thriving growth over the years.

The team would also like to thank Australian Tourism Awards for facilitating these awards and their continued support for our industry. Additionally, we would like to raise our glasses to all the fellow operators and local businesses for their much-deserved recognition and awards.

Beyond their remarkable history of providing unforgettable on-water experiences, Ocean Rafting is equally committed to the environmental sector by participating in the Tourism Reef Protection Initiative and starting our very own initiative, “Tins 4 Fins,” to fund beach cleans and additional research, ensuring we protect this beautiful part of the world.

Ocean Rafting’s reputation speaks for itself and is recognised with a perfect score as Best of Queensland Experience under the national quality tourism framework along with a Quality Tourism accreditation. Additionally, Ocean Rafting is the recipient of a TripAdvisor Travellers Choice Award for being in top 10% of attractions worldwide every year since 2012 and a TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best award winner in the Top 1% of Tourism Businesses around the world and Top 10 Experiences in Australia.

Ocean Rafting is also a coveted Ecotourism Australia Hall of Fame member for being continuously Advanced Ecotourism Australia Certified for 25 years or longer. Ocean Rafting is also a Green Travel Leader, Climate Action Business and is the only company in the Whitsundays with six Master Reef Guides, who are recognised as the world’s leading reef guides, interpreters and story tellers, in addition to a team made up of Marine Biologists and Eye On the Reef trained Eco Hosts.

Ocean Rafting offers two exciting day tour adventures, the Northern Exposure and Southern Lights, with an exhilarating ride to Whitehaven Beach, the ultimate access to Hill Inlet and special snorkelling sites, as well as the Fly Raft package, 60-minute scenic flights, a range of adventure packages, charter options and the Reef Seeker environmental educational program. The fleet of eight semi-rigid inflatable vessels allow guests to experience Ocean Rafting’s signature adrenalin-fuelled ride amongst the beauty of the Whitsundays, while a maximum of 32 passengers allows for a personalised experience in the pleasure of a small group.

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Talk to anybody who has spent a bit of time diving or snorkelling the coral reef and you will hear a turtle story. Watch people encounter a turtle for the first time and you hear shouts of delight. It seems that the sea turtle is everyone’s favourite marine animal.

There are 7 species of sea turtles in the world and 6 may be encountered on the Great Barrier Reef, making it a paradise for turtle lovers. Sadly, the future of our sea turtle friends is uncertain.

From the day a sea turtle is hatched, its life is a struggle for survival. For every 1000 sea turtle eggs laid, only about one turtle reaches adulthood due to natural predators and other obstacles. Those that do make it face numerous threats from humans; habitat loss, hunting, marine debris, and pollution.

Today, most species of sea turtles are listed as endangered or critically endangered by the World Conservation Union. And now, climate change is exposing sea turtles to even greater threats.

Sea turtles are unusual as they use both marine and terrestrial habitats during their life cycles. They nest on land but spend their lives in the oceans. Unfortunately, this exposes them to multiple impacts of climate change. The beach sites of a sea turtles’ birth, where they return as adults to lay their eggs, are under threat from rising sea level and erosion of nesting sites.

Sea turtles rely on the temperature of the sand in which the eggs incubate to determine the gender of the hatchling in a nest. An increase in nesting beach temperature is impacting the sex of turtles. Typically, cooler sand produces more males and warmer sand produces more females. With increasing nest temperatures due to global warming, scientists are seeing a significant shift towards more female sea turtles. This is a serious threat to population size and genetic diversity.

Warmer ocean temperatures are also likely to negatively impact food resources. As ocean temperatures increase, healthy seagrass meadows and coral reefs are declining, reducing the sea turtle’s most important feeding grounds.

The future of the sea turtle is in doubt because of human activities on the land, the sea and now the atmosphere. It is sadly ironic that the sea turtle’s continued existence is now entirely dependent on human intervention. Protecting sea turtles and their habitat is a must, but reducing carbon emissions to reign in global warming is the most important step we can take.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Conservation Council.

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The annual migration of humpback whales from the Antarctic to warm water of the Great Barrier Reef should be beginning in a couple of weeks. Humpback whales can be seen in many locations along the east coast of Australia. It’s been known for years that Hervey Bay is an important resting site in the whale migration, which has made it qualify as a Whale Heritage Site.

For many years it was never know where humpbacks gave birth, but since 2009 researchers have been putting the pieces together discovering it is right here in the Whitsundays, next to the islands!

The Whitsundays are the perfect location because it has deep troughs close to shallow reef, where whales can give birth and then move their calves to shallow water.  In shallow water there is less chance of predator attack from below and the mother can support the calf near the surface so it can breathe.

In the first few week's humpback calves spend 30% of their time suckling their mother's milk and 50% of their time on the surface breathing where they have to breathe every five minutes.  It is important that the mother doesn’t have to spend her energy reserves on protecting her calf, so she can spend her reserves on producing 600 litres of milk per day.  The mother will not feed until she returns to her feeding ground in the Antarctic.

Calves don’t have any buoyancy control for the first few weeks, so mothers have to assist them with buoyancy until they work it out for themselves. The calves are born with no fat supply, so it is important they build up insulation for when they reach cold water down south.  They also need to build up their energy to practice learning life skills.

The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park is the size of Italy or Japan, so to have such a significant area on our doorstep is really special. It is so significant that in March 2024 the Whitsundays became a WHALE HERITAGE SITE, the first ever in a UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE AREA and there is a SPECIAL WHALE PROTECTION AREA zone in the Whitsundays.

In the Whitsundays not only does the 300 metres exclusion zone apply to jet skis but to all vessels to protect the whales in the maternity and nursery area.

Whales of the Whitsundays is the project that collaborated to gain the Whale Heritage Site Whitsundays listing. To find out more about special whale events, whale sightings and information on whales in the Whitsundays, join the WHALES OF THE WHITSUNDAYS Facebook page or go to www.whalesofthewhitsundays.com.au

Contributed with thanks to Kellie Leonard - Whales of the Whitsundays

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Lucky was one of the puppies found dumped at Bowen tip but don't be mistaken, this little guy’s spirit animal is 100% sloth as he’s all about naps, cuddles, and soaking up all the love he can get.

Lucky is a relaxed and sweet pup with a loving, easy-going nature that’s hard to resist. He loves a snooze and is happiest curled up next to you. He gets along great with other dogs and is super friendly, making him a wonderful companion. He’s fantastic with young kids and has been tested with plenty, so you can rest assured he’s a great family dog!

Toilet training is going well, and he’s proving to be a smart little learner. Lucky is not a barker or crier – he’s just a calm, settled pup who loves affection. If you’ve got love to give, he’ll take it all with his sweet and easy-going nature.

Lucky is patiently waiting for a family to love him forever. Could that be you?

Interested in adopting Lucky?
Please get in touch with Bowen and Collinsville Pet Rescue:
Phone: 0459 757 455
Facebook: Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue
Email: bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com

Adoption Fee: $400
Currently Being Fostered in Bowen
Age: Puppy
Sex: Male
Other Dogs: Yes
Cats: Unknown
Kids: Absolutely!

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Did you know?

Mosquito borne diseases such as, Dengue Fever, Ross River Virus, and Barmah Forest virus can be transmitted through a single mosquito bite. Applying mosquito repellent when outside, particularly during the wet season, is a simple and effective way to protect yourself and your family. Mosquitoes that transmit Dengue Fever are active at all times of the day, not just dawn and dusk. Repellents containing the active ingredients Deet, Picaridin and Lemon Eucalyptus have been scientifically proven to be the most effective in repelling mosquitos. For more information, please visit Council’s website.

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Hi Everyone,

Ruth 2 Reef has been running for a month now, and what an incredible journey it has been! I'm truly grateful for the amazing response to the feature and for the opportunity to hear and share so many inspiring stories.

What has been so eye opening about starting this feature is that I never have a week where I'm struggling to find stories, as there are so many wonderful Whitsunday environmental initiatives going on in the background.

In this week's feature we have new ancient fish species, coral restoration, and more!

I love hearing your environmental stories, so please do continue to send them in to ruth@lifepublishinggroup.com.

Happy reading!

Ruth

“Whatever you are not changing, you are choosing.” —Laurie Buchanan

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Queensland has recently come under the spotlight, for its newest discovery... and it’s an exciting one!

The state’s rich fossil record just became even more impressive with the unearthing of what is believed to be the smallest vertebrate fossil ever found in Australia.

Described by Queensland Museum palaeontologists, the discovery of Palaeospondylus australis sheds new light on a similar species found only in Scotland, which has baffled scientists for decades.

The species is believed to be a highly elusive, tiny "fish" from a remote area near the Northern Territory border. It inhabited the shallow edges of a marine environment around 400 million years ago.

While Scottish fossils are abundant, they are typically flattened, making detailed analysis difficult. In contrast, Queensland's fossils, though disarticulated, are remarkably well-preserved in 3D. This exceptional preservation offers fresh insight into this mysterious species and may even reveal a distant evolutionary link to modern sharks.

This fossil discovery not only deepens our understanding of ancient Australian ecosystems but also sheds light on the global connections of early vertebrate life. Ongoing research into Palaeospondylus australis holds the potential to uncover new clues about the evolution of jawed vertebrates.

Queensland can now proudly claim to be home to both Australia’s largest and smallest known ancient species!

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The recent severe weather may mean you see some more slithery friends hanging about in unusual places, trying to find shelter.

While snakes have garnered themselves a bit of a reputation, they are actually vital to our ecosystem and play an essential role in controlling rodent and pest populations, and therefore it is important to our environment that we protect and conserve them.

Knowing how to identify what snakes you may come across can help you stay safe and appreciate these fascinating reptiles from a respectful distance.

If you encounter a snake, stay calm and slowly back away, avoiding sudden movements, and observe the snake's direction. If the snake is in your home or property, call a licensed snake catcher for assistance.

Fast Fact: Some snakes can see heat!

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The Great Barrier Reef is facing a very uncertain future. Global warming is pushing water temperatures up, causing more intense and more frequent mass coral bleaching events.

Reducing global greenhouse gas emissions is the most important action to minimise the impact of climate change on the Reef. Yet the science is clear; warming ocean temperatures are locked in, with emissions reductions too little and probably too late. The Reef now needs our help to survive

We can help through the process of Reef restoration, which is a broad term for methods used to rebuild damaged coral reefs, so they can maintain healthy, sustainable ecosystems. In other words, it’s all the ways we help the Reef to help itself.

There are several reef restoration techniques currently employed.

1. Coral Gardening

Fragments of broken corals are collected and regrown in land-based or underwater nurseries, before being planted onto reefs – much like you would collect and regrow cuttings or seedlings in a pot, before planting them in your garden.

There are numerous coral gardening projects across the Reef, including the Whitsundays.

2. Coral IVF

During mass coral spawning, researchers capture excess coral eggs and sperm from healthy reefs and rear millions of baby corals in specially designed floating pools. These young corals are then placed on damaged reefs, helping to repopulate and restore them. The offspring of these corals will continue to breed, revitalising the damaged reefs.

In the Whitsundays, the Boats4Corals project is helping scale up IVF restoration in the region by harnessing the power of the people. Local tourism operators, Traditional Owners, government agencies, and recreational boaters are being trained in the Coral IVF method; from identification of spawning slicks, to releasing coral larvae from floating nursery pools onto the Reef.

3. Reef rubble

Baby corals need to settle on a clean, stable substrate. Unfortunately, after a bleaching event or cyclone, the substrate is primarily loose rubble, precluding natural recovery.

As such, restoration efforts can also involve stabilisation – using artificial means like mesh netting or carbonate rocks, or replacing damaged or lost reef with new structures, like specially-designed 3D shapes.

4. Helping corals resist warming temperatures

Researchers are investigating the genes of heat-tolerant corals which will give us an understanding of how and where corals might be able to resist warming temperatures. In turn, this will inform us about their potential to adapt to climate change.

It is important to note, the only long-term guarantee for future reefs is to quickly reduce our carbon emissions and reign in global warming. But we are running out of time. However, with effective, large-scale coral restoration, we might just buy the Reef a bit more of time.

Contributed by Whitsunday Conservation Council.

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Janet Erricker found a life of purpose in helping her community, devoting her time and energy to numerous organisations. When she saw a need, she set about fulfilling it, inspiring others through her generous, happy nature and wonderful example.

Born in Brisbane February 19, 1931 to Stanley Robinson and Edna Betsey Holloway, Janet took on the responsibility of a lot of the household chores at an early age as her older sister suffered chronic health problems and her father was a shift worker. Janet passed scholarship exams in Grade 7 and progressed through to Grade 10. She then attended commercial college and mastered typing, shorthand and bookkeeping.

Janet met husband, Des Erricker. while both were working for the Brisbane City Council. They married in 1955. Des’s position took them to Hughenden where he was Shire Clerk and Janet was a stay-at-home mother.

With three bright young daughters, Janet was inspired to push for a kindergarten in Hughenden. She set about raising funds to build the kindergarten which had operated in temporary premises from 1962. Janet organised a band of women to sell second-hand books and comics, craft and second-hand school uniforms and she hosted ladies’ euchre gatherings to see the kindy come to fruition. And so, in 1965, a permanent kindergarten building was opened.

The Errickers were immersed in the swimming club in both Hughenden and Proserpine where Des took was Shire Clerk from 1966. For over 20 years, Janet, affectionately known as Mrs “E”, and Des were prime movers in the Whitsunday Swimming Club from the time the Proserpine Memorial Swimming Pool opened on April 28 1969. Both gained coaching qualifications and gave countless hours, for free, to ensure children could swim and reach their sporting potential. Janet was president of the club, fulfilling this voluntary role for many years. As fitting acknowledgement of their service, both were awarded life membership.

But Janet did far more than coach swimmers. The Errickers subsidised and supported many children whose families were not in a financial position to afford nominations, swimmers, track suits, gate entry, accommodation, and travel. Their home generously hosted many swim trainees (often around a dozen) for breakfast and afternoon tea, and provided a place to do homework to enable before and after-school training when parents were not able to deliver their children to or from the pool on time, or bus schedules did not fit early and late training.

Around 1985, Janet became involved with the Proserpine Nursing Home, initially as a community visitor then as a member of the nursing home board. She organised fundraising to make craft items for sale, using her skills in sewing, knitting, crochet and gardening, in addition to running trivia nights. Along with a group of lady supporters from the Proserpine Nursing Home, Janet started up a local group of the Red Hatters promoting Fun and Friendship After 50.

In the aftermath of Cyclone Ada (1970), Janet helped to organise accommodation for those left homeless. She ensured children were safely housed with different people (including in her own home) while parents worked on recovery.

As a way for women to boost fitness and get out of the house, Janet also started social aqua-aerobics in 1983/1984. She continued this until she was 81. She also co-owned and ran a gymnasium with daughter, Lynne. Janet was very involved in her children’s school P&C, tuckshop and fetes. She was also an active member of the public speaking club, Forum.

With Janet Erricker’s passing in 2021, our community lost a remarkable lady.

Story courtesy of Proserpine Historical Museum and photo courtesy of Lynne Erricker.

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As a local of The Whitsundays, I’m always on the lookout for great places to recommend to visiting friends and family – and Waterview Airlie Beach is one I’m always happy to share. This boutique apartment complex, nestled in the heart of Airlie Beach, offers a perfect blend of comfort and convenience, with stunning views of the Coral Sea and Whitsunday Islands.

Waterview features just six stylish apartments, each with its own private balcony or porch, making it a peaceful and intimate spot for a staycation or to host out-of-town guests. The apartments are designed with comfort in mind, offering a fully equipped kitchenette, air conditioning, flat-screen TV, and high-speed Wi-Fi. The modern décor and spacious layouts provide the ideal setting to relax and unwind after a day exploring the area.

The location is unbeatable – just a short walk from the vibrant main street, filled with restaurants, bars, and shops. The Airlie Beach Lagoon is also nearby, perfect for a swim or a leisurely day out. Plus, with a tour desk on-site, guests can easily book excursions to the Great Barrier Reef and Whitsunday Islands.

Whether you’re planning a staycation or need a place for friends or relatives to stay, Waterview is a great choice. It’s the perfect mix of location, comfort, and relaxation right here in our own backyard.

Contributed by Jade Yvonne, Business Development Executive, Tourism Whitsundays

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Last week, The Whitsundays wrapped up the face-to-face workshops for the Whitsundays Welcomes You Program, complementing the online training with an engaging, hands-on session. It was fantastic to see over 45 passionate locals come together, share their pride for the region, and learn how to create unforgettable guest experiences.

So, what makes us proud of the Whitsundays? Is it the friendly people, the laid-back country-coastal vibe, or the stunning blue ocean? Maybe it’s the live music, fresh local produce, or that WOW factor when you take it all in. Whatever it is, the Whitsundays Welcomes You Program is all about celebrating that pride and using it to make every guest feel at home.

The Whitsundays Welcomes You Program is open to anyone involved in welcoming guests—whether you work in hotels, tours, cafes, retail, or volunteer in the community. The program helps locals develop the skills and knowledge to be exceptional hosts, ensuring that guests leave as passionate advocates for the region.

The Queensland Welcomes You initiative is proudly funded by the Queensland Government and delivered by the Queensland Regional Tourism Network.

Ready to get involved? Local businesses and volunteers can access the free online training anytime, anywhere. To register, visit: www.tourismwhitsundays.com.au

Contributed by Tourism Whitsundays

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Bowen’s foreshore is one of our region’s greatest assets, and we now have an exciting opportunity to shape its future together.

Council is inviting the community to help co-design the Bowen Foreshore Masterplan—a bold vision to revitalise the waterfront, enhance public spaces, and attract investment over the next 15 years.

This Masterplan builds on the momentum of the $68 million Bowen Wharf project, expected to commence in 2027, and ensures that future upgrades benefit both locals and visitors.

This plan includes new pathways, pedestrian crossings & streetscape enhancements, upgrades to playgrounds & aquatic facilities, environmental improvements, including foreshore protection & recycled water irrigation and opportunities for private investment—such as accommodation, retail, and marine industry developments along Santa Barbara Parade and within the Marina.

But most importantly, this is your foreshore, and we want your input, so we are asking our Whitsunday community to tell us what matters most. What should we prioritise? How can we better connect the foreshore with businesses, recreation, and tourism?

There are several ways to have your say: attend our community workshop on Thursday, 27 March at the Bowen PCYC, from 5:30pm or visit our engagement portal Your Say at yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au or complete a hardcopy survey at our Council Customer Service Centres.

Consultation is open until Monday, 21 April 2025, so don’t miss your chance to shape the future of Bowen’s waterfront.

Let’s work together to create a vibrant, well-connected Bowen foreshore that celebrates our lifestyle, supports local businesses, and attracts investment.

I look forward to hearing your ideas!

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The phrase “teamwork makes the dream work” was evident in abundance at Saturday’s ‘Team Whitsundays Dancing CEOs’ Masquerade Gala Ball, which raised $85,000 for Women’s Legal Service Queensland (WLSQ).

Kate Purdie (Coral Sea Marina), Candice Crossley (Whitsunday Transit), Julie Telford (SeaLink Whitsundays), and Dr Alice Harriott (Whitsunday Family Dental), said it had taken not just a village but an entire community of people and businesses to pull the event off, and extended a heartfelt “thank you” to absolutely everyone involved.

“From the major sponsors to the minor, every contribution counted towards the end result, which was ultimately the $85,000 we are now able to give Women’s Legal Service Queensland, which will be used to help women and children escape abusive situations and literally rebuild their lives,” Julie Telford said.

By Sharon Smallwood

$85K Raised For Charity At Sparkling Masquerade Ball

WLSQ CEO, Nadia Bromley, expanded on this, commending not just the team of local Dancing CEOs but the whole of the Whitsundays’ community for getting behind them.

“The people who work for our service are amazing; they do difficult work in often challenging environments, but their work is made both possible and easier by incredible people like you,” she said.

“The work you do means we can provide services which we otherwise couldn’t, which clearly helps a lot of women who are our clients, but it also helps our staff – it means we have additional flexibility in how we work, in the support we can provide clients, and the places in which we work – but also, perhaps just as importantly, it makes our staff feel valued and supported, and I can’t express to you in words just how much that means.”

Whitsunday MP, Amanda Camm, who is also the Minister for Child Safety and the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence, described herself as having “complete FOMO” at not having been able to attend the event but sent a powerful message to the 170 people who did.

“How very proud I am of our Team Whitsundays Dancing CEOs, firstly for their courage to put themselves out there for such a great cause and secondly for shining a spotlight

on the fact that more support for DV services is needed in regions like ours,” her message read.

“As the Minister for Domestic and Family Violence Prevention, this will be a core focus for me and why I am pleased to support these amazing women.

“Domestic and family violence does not discriminate and through this event – and the upcoming Epic Walk for DV – our community can have conversations and raise awareness with purpose that will deliver tangible outcomes.”

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor, Ry Collins, expressed his delight in seeing the Shute Harbour Marine Terminal being used for such a meaningful event.

“It’s wonderful to see this incredible venue come to life in support of such a deserving cause through Dancing CEOs,” he said.

“We’re proud to play a role in this initiative, and now we’re cheering on our Whitsundays team to give it their all and make a real impact for this worthy cause.”

In more good news delivered on the night, a charity raffle donated to WLSQ by local bareboat charter company, Whitsunday Escape, came to a close, with the winner announced and a whopping $48,800 raised.

Whitsunday Escape General Manager, Jaclyn Watson, said for her and her team this was deeply personal.

“Behind the glitz and glamour is a community of people fighting for change – and what a community we have,” she said.

Kate Purdie extended a special “thank you” to Coral Sea Marina Resort owner, Paul Darrouzet, who attended the event, a highlight of which was his offer to double the prize he had donated to the charity auction, with not one, but two days out on a Superyacht, raising a total of $30,000.

The team’s next event is the Whitsundays’ inaugural ‘Epic Walk for DV’ set to take place at 7.30am on Sunday, March 30, at the Coral Sea Marina Gardens.

Ms Bromley said the organisation’s Practice Director would be attending the walk, and liaising with other agencies in the region about opportunities to provide more services to women here.

For more information and online links follow the ‘Team Whitsundays Dancing CEOs’ Facebook page.

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When Network 10’s Brendan Smith and Epic Hair Design’s Brendan Mann initially created the ‘Epic Walk for DV’, little did they know that in just four years it would spread its wings from New Farm Park in Brisbane to the Coral Sea Marina Resort in Airlie Beach.

“This year we’re hoping to raise $300,000 for Women’s Legal Service Queensland (WLSQ) across our three walks in Brisbane, the Gold Coast, and now the Whitsundays, and ultimately we hope that it becomes a regular fixture on the charity calendar here,” Brendan Smith explained while visiting the marina last week.

“The reason it’s so important that we’re bringing this walk to Airlie Beach is because WLSQ is a state based service – everyone benefits from it and I think this will really allow people to open up those conversations,” he said.

Coral Sea Marina CEO, Kate Purdie, who has become one of WLSQ’s flagship fundraising ‘Dancing CEOs’ for 2025, described the organisation as a life-saving, life-changing support service for women and children escaping domestic violence.

“Through WLSQ, women are able to access free legal advice at a time when the complex world of court systems is the last thing they need to be dealing with but often the most critical in terms of keeping them safe and rebuilding their lives,” she said.

“Domestic and family violence is far too prevalent within our communities but here at the marina, we believe that this is a preventable problem we can face together as a community if we start by having the conversation, which is what this Epic Walk is about.”

Signing up for the walk is as easy as visiting www.epicwalkfordv.com.au. People can choose to sign up as individuals or create their own fundraising teams. Cost for adults is $24; kids walk free. The registration fee provides an event T-shirt to wear on the day and breakfast in the Coral Sea Marina Gardens.

On the day, participants can muster from as early as 6.30am for a 7.30am start. The walk is 5kms consisting of the traditional ‘Park Run’ loops. All ages and levels of fitness are welcome.

For more information and online links follow the Coral Sea Marina and ‘Team Whitsundays Dancing CEOs’ Facebook pages.

By Sharon Smallwood.

WHAT: Epic Walk For DV
WHERE: Coral Sea Marina Gardens
WHEN: Sunday 30th March from 6.30am

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Team Whitsundays Dancing CEO Alice Harriott, WLSQ Ambassador Marisa Vecchio AM, Epic Walk Founders Brendan Smith and Brendan Mann, WLSQ Ambassador and Whitsundays team mentor Katelyn Aslett Collins and Epic Walk coordinator Carlee Hay
Photo credit: Sharon Smallwood

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The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry is excited to introduce one of their new Board members – Asher Telford of SeaLink.

“We are always grateful to our members who step up and volunteer their time and expertise in shaping our strategy and being great ambassadors for the Whitsundays business community” said Chamber President Allan Milostic.

Asher Telford is SeaLink’s General Manager Whitsundays which also includes Red Cat Adventures and Whitsunday Jetski Tours.

“As General Manager, I oversee the operations and customer experience for the 13 vessels and 35 jetskis in the SeaLink Whitsundays fleet,” said Asher.

With a background as a commercial skipper and qualified in marine operations, he has worked previously in the Customs Marine Unit and built Red Cat Adventures from scratch into a four times national award-winning tourism business.

Asher brings strategic and governance expertise to his new appointment, as a board member with the Association of Marine Park Tourism Operators, Greater Whitsunday Alliance, and the Whitsunday Charter Boat Industry Association (WCBIA). Asher will be representing the WCBIA on the Chamber Board, helping forge a stronger connection between the two organisations for their benefit of their members and collective advocacy work with government.

“As a Board member, I look forward to giving back to the Whitsundays business community and steering the region in a positive direction,” Asher said.

Eligible Chamber members are welcome to nominate to join the Board. Contact the Chamber to learn more.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Coast Chamber of Commerce.

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More than 50 business owners, staff and volunteers attended workshops in Airlie Beach and Bowen last week as part of the “Queensland Welcomes You” initiative.

Bowen Tourism and Business was well represented at the Bowen workshop at the Grand View Hotel.

The Chair of the committee, Jenn Honnery and the Manager, Leanne Abernethy, both attended the workshop along with three other committee members and three volunteers.

They were joined by local tourism operators, a representative from Tourism Whitsundays and Whitsunday Regional Council staff.

The local workshops were part of a state-wide roll-out of the initiative which has been led by former Whitsundays resident, Kathleen Maher as the Project Manager.

Kathleen, along with the presenters Linda Tillman and Jayne Jennings, called in at the Big Mango after the workshop and enjoyed a delicious mango sorbet.

All workshops across the state were tailored to each region with local participants completing the “Whitsundays Welcomes You” program.

Local businesses and their staff who were unable to attend the workshops still have access to “The Whitsundays Welcomes You” free online training program – a resource specifically designed to inspire and upskill teams to deliver outstanding customer service and unforgettable guest experiences.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said the program was perfect for anyone who interacts with visitors, helping to build local knowledge, enhance storytelling skills and create a warm, welcoming environment for guests.

The Whitsundays Welcomes You Program is funded by the Queensland Government as part of the Queensland Welcomes You initiative and delivered by the Queensland Regional Tourism Network, including Tourism Whitsundays.

To access the program, visit the Tourism Whitsundays website or head directly to www.qld.gov.au/qldwelcomesyou.

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Former Whitsundays resident Kathleen Maher with the presenters Jayne Jennings and Linda Tillman, enjoying a delicious sorbet at the Big Mango. Photo supplied

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Beautiful Astra was rescued from death row at Charters Towers Pound and is now patiently waiting for her forever home. This delicate girl is slender and graceful, much like a little damselfly, with a quiet charm that’s hard to resist.

Astra is a sweet and gentle soul who absolutely loves a chat. She’s always up for a conversation and will happily respond when spoken to, making her a lovely little companion to share your day with. One of her most endearing features is the adorable white tips on her paws, which add to her dainty appearance.

While friendly and affectionate, Astra also appreciates her own space and enjoys relaxing in a calm, peaceful environment. She would be best suited to a quiet home, either with a single person or a family without other pets, where she can truly thrive and feel safe.

If you’re looking for a loving companion with a gentle nature and a lot of character, Astra could be the perfect addition to your home. She’s ready to find her special someone and start her new chapter.

Interested in adopting Astra?

Please get in touch with Bowen and Collinsville Pet Rescue:

Phone: 0459 757 455
Facebook: Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue
Email: bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com

Rehoming fee: $170
Age: 12 months
Sex: Female
Other dogs: No
Cats: No

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Proud parents, teachers, and friends gathered last week to celebrate the achievements of the students during Whitsunday Christian College's Primary Assembly. The event was a wonderful opportunity to recognise the hard work, dedication, and character of pupils across the school.

The highlight of the assembly was the presentation of the Student of the Week certificates.  Each recipient was congratulated for their achievements.

This weekly celebration not only rewards individual achievement but also serves as a reminder of the importance of striving for personal bests and displaying kindness, respect, and resilience. The assembly reflects the school’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals who value both academic success and good character.

In addition to celebrating the Students of the Week, the school also took a moment to wish a very happy birthday to everyone marking their special day this week. Staff and students alike hope each of them enjoys a wonderful week of celebration with family and friends.

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This week, Bowen State School gathered to celebrate the outstanding efforts of students recognised as Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) Achievers for Week 7. These students have shown exceptional commitment to upholding the school’s four core values: Be Responsible, Be Respectful, Be Safe, and Be a Learner.

Each of these values is central to the school’s approach, helping pupils develop not only as successful learners but also as responsible and respectful members of the school community. The PBL framework encourages students to make positive choices, show kindness and respect towards others, take responsibility for their actions, and approach every learning opportunity with enthusiasm and resilience.

Throughout the week, teachers carefully observed and acknowledged pupils who consistently demonstrated these values across all aspects of school life, including the classroom, playground, and wider school environment. Whether collaborating positively with others, following instructions promptly, showing kindness and good manners, or making sensible and safe choices, these students truly exemplified the school’s values and set a fantastic example for their peers.

It was a proud moment as the Week 7 achievers were announced and congratulated in front of their peers. Certificates were presented to each student.

The school is extremely proud of all students who continue to work hard and demonstrate these important values every day.

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Hello Everyone,

Yesterday, I received an anonymous text message.

It said: “I would like to thank you for keeping us all updated on local news and events and for adding the extra puzzle page!”

At the time, I was standing in the middle of our office in Cannonvale, navigating a particularly tough set of deadlines. The whole team was under a lot of pressure, and we were all doing our best to get the papers to print on time.

Receiving a message like this, at that exact moment, was an absolute tonic.

It reminded me that all the long hours and stressful moments are worthwhile because they’re truly appreciated by at least one person in the community—and hopefully many more! But it was this one voice I heard, and it meant so much to us all at that time.

Eager to share the delightful message, I read it out loud to the office, and everyone loved it. We especially enjoyed the “extra puzzle page” reference and had a little laugh about how popular it always is.

In fact, I’m told there’s a group of pensioners in a Mackay nursing home, and up to 10 of them gather each week to complete the puzzles together. I love that our paper brings people together.

This week, I also saw our newspaper featured in a Facebook post by Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm. She attended the Proserpine Meals on Wheels and discovered that our papers are sent out for free to all recipients each week.

This is just one of many local groups we serve. In fact, we’ve been committed to delivering the paper for free to such places since the paper started almost five years ago. For many, it’s the main way they connect with their community.

A big thank you to all our local advertisers for supporting the paper and ensuring this important local service is available.

Rach

"Try to be a rainbow in someone’s cloud; every storm runs out of rain."
—Maya Angelou

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The Bowen Neighbourhood Centre are pleased to announce the grand opening of the new and improved Bowen Community Op Shop! The shop will be open from 8am to 2.30pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. All proceeds from the shop go directly back into supporting the Bowen community, ensuring that the funds raised help local programs and initiatives.

Since its inception 15 years ago, the Bowen Community Op Shop, also known as the Shed Shop, has raised vital funds for 83 organisations and community groups in the Bowen and Collinsville region.

This wonderful charity shop plays a key role in supporting local initiatives such as the Bowen Community Garden, ensuring it remains open to the public, and recently, it also helped a Bowen High School student attend university as part of our "Grow Our Own Workforce" program.

By shopping with them, you're not just finding great bargains — you're directly contributing to the growth and wellbeing of our community,

So, come visit the new and improved Bowen Community Op Shop, grab a bargain, and take part in this fantastic opportunity to support your community while enjoying the great deals they have on offer.

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The new op shop entrance. Photo supplied: Stephanie Cora, Executive Officer of the Bowen Community Centre

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This month marks the five-year anniversary of the Horseshoe Bay Café, a beloved spot in Bowen that has become known for its great food, welcoming atmosphere, and stunning location. What started as a memorable spark, has blossomed into a thriving café at the heart of this coastal community.

It was a serendipitous moment during a sailing trip in the North Atlantic that sparked the idea of taking over the café. “I was in an art gallery in Antigua and came across a book about mangoes,” recalls Jilly Paddon, the co-owner of the café. “I looked at the book and it just jolted my mind about the café there at Horseshoe Bay. I went on Facebook and saw it was permanently closed. So, I got out my phone and called.”

“I said, ‘Look, we'll be back boxing day, but you need to keep that café for us. We really want it.’”

That simple call led to an interview, a secured lease, and the beginning of what would become an iconic café in Horseshoe Bay. The location, despite being run-down at the time, had immense potential. Jilly and her team saw it as an opportunity to create something special.

In the five years since, Horseshoe Bay Café has undergone significant transformations, becoming the beloved hot-spot, it is today. “We’ve put a lot of love into it,” Jilly explains. “I love Bowen, and it's been the best five years ever.”

New and exciting changes are on the horizon for Horseshoe Bay Café. There plans to expand with a smoothie and juice bar, an extended cocktail list, and a menu shake-up. In addition, the back area will be opened up, providing even more space for guests to enjoy the picturesque surroundings, with all these upgrades set to be completed within the next four weeks.

Committed to providing excellent food at great prices along with a relaxed dining experience, “We consistently have live music on Friday and Saturday nights, and Sunday afternoons,” Jilly says. “We’ve got great deals like our $20 pasta, parmi, pizza night, and monthly Indian food nights.”

The café offers something for everyone, whether it’s the dog-friendly outdoor seating, the $12 kids meals, or the smaller portions for seniors. They can even host events at no extra booking charge! The café’s popularity is a testament to the strong connections within the local community, as well as with the travellers from the neighbouring resorts.

“We’ve welcomed another great chef to the team," Jilly adds, "and we’re introducing a delivery service, plus a seven-seater courtesy car for those who want to enjoy the café and cocktails.”

As Bowen continues to grow, the Horseshoe Bay Café remains a place where locals and tourists alike can enjoy great food, live entertainment, and a relaxed atmosphere. “It’s simply the best café in Bowen,” says Jilly. “Anyone who knows me knows how much I love the café, and I’m excited for what’s to come.”

With a loyal customer base, continuous improvements, and a deep love for Bowen, the Horseshoe Bay Café shows no signs of slowing down. Here’s to another five years of success, community, and great food at one of Bowen’s best cafés.

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Jilly Paddon and Julie Hall at the Café's new bar. Photo supplied: Jilly Paddon
The Café beautifully set up for a wedding.  Photo supplied: Jilly Paddon

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On Saturday, 8th March, the Proserpine Lions and Lion Ladies held their first International Women’s Day event, with over 90 women attending at the Proserpine R.S.L., who generously donated the use of the venue. They were thrilled by the success of the event! Proserpine Meals on Wheels and Proserpine Food Bank will each receive $2,200 from the proceeds.

The Lion Ladies baked and prepared a fabulous High Tea, with the service efficiently carried out by Mia and Bella from Proserpine High School. There were speeches that covered a range of topics, from domestic and family violence to personal travel stories shared by Proserpine High's Year 12 student Savannah and Whitsunday Christian College College Year 6 student Savi.

There were 42 cent sale prizes, including beautiful basket and game prizes, with all the draws being conducted by Mayor Ry Collins, who seemed right at home in a room full of women.

They celebrated many pioneering women of the community, with each table featuring the story of a notable woman. These included the first female councillor, a nurse who served on Bougainville during WW2, early educators, and tourism operators.

While there were many exceptional women to acknowledge, one highlight included the story of Mary Lee on Grassy Island, who caught and killed an 18-foot crocodile herself back in the 1930’s (with a descendant in the room to confirm the whereabouts of the men, who were out fishing at the time).

The generosity of local businesses in Proserpine demonstrated that even a small community can achieve great things and here’s to another great International Women's Day next year!

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Cherly Brodie with a giant prize pack
The huge turnout of amazing women
Proserpine High School's Savannah, sharing her stories
Proserpine High School's Mia and Bella, being wonderful servers

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Our last bin audit revealed that over 30% of what is going in our kerbside yellow lidded recycling bins is contamination, such as soft plastics and bagged recycling. When a recycling bin is contaminated, it can sometimes mean that the load is unable to be separated or sorted correctly and must be sent to landfill instead – what a waste!

To help you to know which item goes in which bin,  you can sign up for a free recycling do’s and don’ts fridge magnet on the Let’s Get it Sorted page of Council’s website before the end of April.

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On Monday, March 17th, the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre hosted a highly impactful CORES Suicide Prevention Training workshop, attended by 9 local community members. These workshops aim to equip participants with essential skills for identifying and responding to individuals at risk of suicide, while also promoting self-care and mental wellbeing.

Barbara Hill, a facilitator of the workshop, explained the importance of the training; “It’s a free suicide intervention training, and CORES stands for Community Owned Response to Eliminating Suicide.” She emphasised the inclusive nature of the session stating, “Today's group is a mixture of members of the public and business owners,” highlighting the diverse backgrounds of those involved.

Barbara also touched on the delicate nature of the topic, ensuring that participants felt supported throughout the process. “Although we’re talking about a heavy topic, we don’t keep it heavy, and we end our sessions focusing on self-care,” she said. The workshop explores methods of helping participants recognise 'red flags’ and how to respond to them. “We work on different models and scenarios so that people can recognise when they or their loved ones are in that mental headspace,” Hill added.

One of the key features of CORES training is its accessibility and its ability to complement other mental health programs. Hill shared her admiration for CORES, saying, “What I love most about CORES is that you can have done various other trainings, but it blends them all together, and it’s presented in such a way that it’s easy to understand. It’s not hard training, it’s not meant to be. We get people from all walks of life wanting to learn and understand. It’s beautiful.”

CORES, a non-profit, non-government community organisation, is dedicated to preventing suicide and building community capacity to eliminate it. The organisation’s core offering is a one-day suicide intervention course, which is currently being provided in 27 communities across Australia, with more than 5,000 members involved.

The training session offered attendees valuable skills for identifying warning signs of suicide, supporting individuals at risk to access services, and promoting help-seeking behaviour before a crisis occurs. Participants also learned how to identify and develop personal self-care strategies.

For those interested in growing their understanding of suicide prevention and mental wellbeing, the CORES Suicide Prevention Training and Self-Care and Mental Wellbeing workshops are open to individuals aged 15 and above, with adolescents requiring guardian supervision.

To find out about upcoming sessions or to access helpful services, community members are encouraged to connect via Facebook at CORESQueensland or email: admin@kentishrc.com.au and visit the CORES website at cores.org.au. Don’t miss the opportunity to join the next training session in Mackay at the Jubilee Community Centre on the 26th of March by scanning the QR Code and make a difference in your community’s approach to suicide prevention.

Call Triple Zero (000) if you or a loved one are in immediate danger | Call Lifeline (13 11 14) for 24/7 Crisis Support | Or visit Beyond Blue online to chat 24/7 to a free, confidential counsellor or call one on (1300 224 636).

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Facilitators Ross, Barb and Isaac with participants of the workshop holding their completion certificates.

https://events.humanitix.com/host/cores-queensland

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Karen Warner is a shining example of resilience having recently overcome a period of immense hardship. A few months ago, Karen faced the terrifying prospect of homelessness, unsure where she would sleep, whether it would be in her car or seeking shelter in public restrooms. However, thanks to the incredible support from Whitsunday Housing in Airlie Beach, her life took a turn for the better.

Karen shared her heartfelt thanks, saying, “I'd like to extend my gratitude to the wonderful staff at Whitsunday Housing for their support. A few months ago, I faced the prospect of homelessness (...) This period has been extremely difficult. However, the staff have been instrumental in helping me, much like guardian angels. I wouldn't be writing this today if it weren't for them. Thank you again, from the bottom of my heart, beautiful people.”

Looking to the future, Karen is eager to give back to the community that helped her. She said, “I'm looking forward to getting settled and back on track so I can give back to the community, whether it's through donating items or other means.”

Debbie Stephens, another recipient of support from the same team, echoed Karen’s sentiments, stating, “I am so pleased that you have shelter! They provided the same for me during a period of significant upheaval in my life and are truly the kindest and most compassionate individuals.”

To the team at Whitsunday Housing for helping Karen and those struggling like her, to build their lives back together through the necessity of safe housing, thank you for all your hard work and charity.

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This week I have the very exciting news that I have become a volunteer turtle carer for Eco Barge Clean Sea’s Inc. Currently I am looking after the lovely Betty, a juvenile green sea turtle.

Sadly, Betty has come into Eco Barge’s care due to two serious issues: she’s affected by a condition known as 'float' and has a significant boat wound on her shell. Her situation serves as a crucial reminder to boaters to take extra care when navigating near seagrass beds in Pioneer Bay and Airlie Beach. By reducing speeds to under 6 knots in these delicate areas, we can help protect these magnificent animals from preventable harm.

Eco Barge does an incredible job rehabilitating the turtles in their care, with the ultimate goal of releasing each one as soon as they’re ready. This past Saturday, I had the pleasure of hanging out with Betty, and it was lovely to see her with such a good appetite!

Over the weekend, we celebrated International Women's Day, and I had the honour of attending the Zonta International Women's Day Event. It was an inspiring gathering, showcasing many incredible women who have made significant contributions across various fields. One standout was Faye Chapman who was recognised for her outstanding environmental efforts, which you can read more about in this feature.

Please continue to email any of your environmental stories to ruth@lifepublishinggroup.com.

Happy reading!

Ruth

“We are the first generation to feel the impact of climate change and the last generation that can do something about it.”- Barack Obama

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For a plant, one of the harshest environments on earth is the intertidal zone. Half the day, inundated with salt water. The other half of the day, high and dry. 24 hours a day, strong tidal currents and crashing waves.

A tough place for a plant to survive. But mangroves are survivors. They thrive in these wild conditions that would quickly kill most plants.

How do they do it?

Through a series of impressive adaptations—including a filtration system that keeps out much of the salt and a complex root system that holds the mangrove upright in the shifting sediments where land and water meet

Not only do mangroves manage to survive in challenging conditions, the mangrove ecosystem also supports an incredible diversity of creatures. As well, mangrove forests are extremely important to our own well-being and to the health of the planet.

Mangroves form dense barriers against storms and tsunamis, saving lives and protecting property. They also provide us with many other important benefits; mangroves produce seafood, fruits, medicines, fiber, and wood. Up to 70% of all commercially harvested fish on the Great Barrier Reef, spend a part of their lifecycle in the mangroves.

They stabilize shores by trapping sediments and building land. They improve water quality by filtering runoff and polluted waters. They protect the climate by absorbing carbon dioxide and reducing the amount of greenhouse gas. All in all, researchers estimate, the world's mangrove forests provide human communities with many billions of dollars worth of free services

The question is: Will mangroves be able to survive the impact of human activities?

Despite their critical importance, mangroves are disappearing at an alarming rate around the world. Human development, port development, and aquaculture are rapidly replacing the mangrove trees and the ecosystems they support. There are a few places where mangrove cover is increasing. But, in just in the last decade, at least 35 percent of the world's mangroves have been destroyed. That is a rate of loss that exceeds the disappearance of tropical rainforests.

It is time to appreciate our mangrove forests. In Queensland, all mangroves are completely protected under the Fisheries Act 1994. Let’s keep it that way.

Contributed by Whitsunday Conservation Council.

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What is Native to Africa, has exceptionally long legs, has an erratic walking style, and measures just 5mm in length yet poses a serious threat to the environment? The yellow crazy ant.

This invasive species is infamous for forming vast ‘super colonies,’ devastating natural ecosystems by preying on native wildlife, including birds, frogs, insects, lizards, and mammals. If left unchecked, they threaten biodiversity, agriculture, tourism, and local communities and is listed as one of the world's 100 worst invasive alien species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.

Since their discovery at Shute Harbour near Airlie Beach in 2019, the Whitsunday Yellow Crazy Ant Treatment Programme has been working tirelessly to contain their spread.

Recently, Queensland National Park Rangers collaborated with over 30 field staff from the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area, Biosecurity Queensland, and Whitsunday Regional Council for a three-day intensive survey of yellow crazy ant infestations in Conway National Park. Their objective was to accurately map affected areas and refine the most effective control strategies.

The survey results showed significant progress in reducing ant populations, with only small numbers detected within Shute Harbour.

Complete eradication remains the ultimate goal, and sustained monitoring over the next five years will be crucial in confirming success.

Fast Fact
Crazy Ants may spray formic acid when disturbed.

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There's plenty happening in Bowen right now, with attractions for food lovers, adventure seekers and anyone looking for a great day out.

The new "360 on the Hill" restaurant at Flagstaff Hill will offer Aussie-Italian cuisine with stunning ocean views when it opens just before Easter. Enjoy breakfast and lunch featuring local Bowen mangoes, Mt Dangar strawberries and fresh seafood. On weekend evenings, they transform into a full Italian dining experience with homemade pizzas and pasta.

For water enthusiasts, the Bowen Marine Centre now provides guided snorkelling tours at Murray Bay reef and kayak trips through Cape Edgecumbe's mangroves, with all equipment and knowledgeable guides included.

Thanks to Whitsunday Regional Council, Rose Bay has received upgrades with new sandstone entrance features replacing the old wooden rails, a repositioned beach shower and additional seating areas.

Mark your calendar for March 15, the earliest possible launch date for Gilmour Space's rocket from Bowen Orbital Spaceport. This milestone event features Australia's first locally designed orbital rocket, a project year in development.

Entertainment options include the Speedway Season Opener on March 22 at Bowen Showgrounds and the inaugural "Soundzgood" music event on March 29 at Flagstaff Hill, featuring local performers with free shuttle service from Grand View Hotel.

Whether you're looking for new dining options, outdoor adventures or entertainment, Bowen has plenty to explore for your next day trip.

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Flagstaff Hill
Rose Bay Foreshore

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Dea, Emma and Ellie from the Tourism Whitsundays team joined the Airlie Beach Cruise ship Ambassadors and Bowen Tourism for a memorable outing with our wonderful friends at Pioneer Adventures. They were treated to a stunning sunset and coral viewing experience, cruising comfortably aboard their glass-bottom boat. This scenic tour is a true highlight, offering a unique perspective of vibrant marine life, all while enjoying the warm glow of the sunset over crystal-clear waters.

The evening was extra special as we celebrated the Cruise Ambassadors, whose dedication and passion help showcase The Whitsundays to thousands of cruise passengers annually. During the busiest month for cruise ships, it was refreshing to see this incredible volunteer group experience our beautiful backyard from a more serene vantage point.

Pioneer Adventures' glass-bottom boat is a great way to explore the underwater beauty of the region without getting wet. The boat allows guests to observe colourful coral gardens and tropical fish, all from the vessel's comfort. As the sun set, the sky transformed into a canvas of brilliant colours, adding a magical touch to the already stunning scenery. It was an unforgettable experience for all and a great way to spend a relaxing evening in The Whitsundays!

Contributed by Jade, Business Development Executive, Tourism Whitsundays

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The majority of people who have endured a life-changing traumatic event would likely focus on their personal recovery, but local hero Michelle Wardrope says she feels more inspired to help others than ever before.

Michelle tragically lost her leg last year after a soil-borne bacterial infection entered her bloodstream when she slipped and fell on her driveway following heavy rain.

Initially believing it was nothing more than a deep cut, she left the hospital with several stitches, but woke up that evening in severe pain.

Rushed back to the hospital, within less than 72 hours her leg was amputated, and she spent the next 13 days in a coma.

Eventually returning to her Whitsunday home months later, life had changed forever for Michelle and her family.

With limited NDIS support, Michelle’s husband became her full-time carer, and the family had to adjust to a new way of life.

However, instead of feeling self-pity, Michelle felt deeply grateful to be alive. She embodied an inner strength and positivity that not only helped her through the tough days, but also propelled her into a new and empowered way of living.

She exhibits this strength once again this month as she embarks on a 50-squat-per-day challenge, completing 50 squats each day throughout the month of March.

Most people would balk at the idea of 50 squats a day with two legs, but Michelle is smashing it with just one.

Now, almost halfway through the month, she is ready to share her story.

“I don’t really have the money to help the causes that I’d like to support,” Michelle shared. “So that’s why I wanted to try to do something that would help raise money instead."

“It’s been very, very hard, but it turns out that I’m getting way more out of it than I ever thought I would!”

So far, Michelle has raised just over $1,000, and all proceeds are going to the Royal Flying Doctors, the service that brought Michelle home once she had completed her initial recovery and was able to leave the hospital.

Looking ahead, Michelle invites everyone in the community to come down to an open parkland area in Airlie Beach on Sunday, March 30th.

This will be an opportunity for her to thank those who have supported her journey. There will be prize giveaways, a sausage sizzle, and an abundance of inspiring community spirit shared with all who attend.

Michelle is also issuing a challenge to anyone who would like to join her in completing her penultimate set of 50 squats.

Members of the Whitsunday Life Newspaper will be there to join in, and Michelle is also hoping to get representatives from the local council—perhaps even the Mayor—to participate.

“I’d love it to be like a Flash Mob Squats,” Michelle expressed. “Doing it with other people really uplifts me, and I’d love to share that feeling with others in the community.”

WHAT: Flash Mob Squats and Community Gathering
WHERE: Airlie Beach Foreshore
WHEN: Sunday, March 30th, late afternoon

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Shell Wardrope completing some of her 50 squats earlier this week
Shell with her family when she was in hospital after her leg was amputated

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Four weeks ago, a local lady was bitten by a Coastal Taipan while attending to the laundry underneath her pole home in Proserpine. Accustomed to living in a remote area, Kate Cross commented in her social media post to the community that "I have always lived on acreage and have been bitten, stung, and spiked by many things," once having even been bitten by a snake.

Due to this, following the initial bite, Ms Cross was not too concerned.

"It was early evening and dark, but the light was on. I was barefoot, planning to be there for just a minute. The bite felt like a sting, not unlike a wasp. While looking for the source, I saw a small, dark snake entering some nearby cardboard packaging. It was about 50 cm long and the thickness of my finger. I feel grateful that I saw it, as I might have guessed the cause of the bite to have been a spider, a more common sighting in that area," she shared.

"I called my partner to tell him that a snake had bitten me and asked him to bring the phone so we could take a photo. We commonly photograph snakes we see to confirm identification, and due to the bite, it seemed like a good idea.

"I was not concerned. It may have been shock or disbelief but I felt okay."

"I have been on this property for 25 years, and snakes are common. At least 90% of sightings have been tree snakes, pythons, or whip snakes. I was confident that an identification would confirm nothing more sinister than a lesser black.

Ms Cross commented that the snake identifiers were fantastic.

"Within six minutes, we had an approved ID. In the interim, we received directions to apply first aid and call 000. The clear and concise directions were helpful in this confused moment. A special thank you to the person who contacted Proserpine Hospital so the medical staff knew I was coming before the ambulance called it in. The community response meant that my partner felt supported, and I appreciated the kindness."

Symptoms started approximately 20 minutes after the bite.

"I began to feel intoxicated, poisoned, I knew then I was being affected by venom. My eyes were blurry, and I felt a little woozy. I had developed a bad headache and intense jaw pain. The ambulance arrived 15 minutes after the call, about five minutes after the onset of symptoms. By then, my symptoms had worsened and now included nausea, throat tightening, and vomiting.

"While traveling to the hospital, I contemplated what being bitten by a taipan meant, but I had no idea what my body was about to go through. It was shutting down!"

Once Ms Cross arrived at Proserpine Hospital her symptoms had escalated.

"The left side of my face had begun to droop, and I struggled to open my eyes. My left arm was weak, and my body began to experience muscle spasms."

When injected with the anti-venom she experienced an allergic reaction.

"I couldn’t see, my throat was closing, my muscles spasmed, and my heart was beating hard."

Immediately transferred to Mackay Base Hospital by CQ Rescue’s helicopter, Ms Cross spent six hours in the ED undergoing neuro testing, monitoring, blood tests, and fluids.

Overall, she was hospitalised for four days and rested for another 10 days at home in bed and has sustained some organ damage that unfortunately cannot be reversed.

Ms Cross finished her message to the community with the following: "I would like to thank everyone involved. There are many: the medical teams at Proserpine, Mackay Base, and Mackay Mater hospitals; the paramedics; CQ Rescue; the snake identifiers; the tea ladies; my family and partner; and the kind community that sent best wishes. Thank you!"

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After driving past kilometres of sugar cane fields, travellers along the Bruce Highway might be amazed as they pass the Whitsunday Gold Coffee plantation in Proserpine, North Queensland.

While coffee growing in the area is unusual now, coffee plantations have a surprisingly long history here, dating back to the early 1900s. The variety grown now is same as was grown over 100 years ago - 'dwarf catui'; one of the Arabica types of coffee.

So why was coffee grown in this region all those years ago?

One line of thought is that the early settlers brought coffee into the region, originally because of isolation. Another possibility is because of the high Italian population in North Queensland.

The Mackay “Daily Mercury” (January 7 1914) noted that several settlers in the Proserpine district were “contemplating the growing of coffee which (authorities) considered would do particularly well”. Then, in the following year, “Townsville Bulletin” (December 20 1913) reported on “a very instructive lantern slide lecture” held the Cannon Valley Hall in which farmers were warned of “the inadvisability of having all one’s eggs in one market. Cocoanut growing was dealt with, also coffee and vanilla, and the profits that (could) be made…”

However, as far back as 1912, there were newspaper reports signifying that coffee was already being grown in the district. The “North Queensland Register” (August 12 1912) published the results of exhibits at the annual show. R Guskie (Gustkie) won first prize for ‘Coffee in Berry’ and for ‘Manufactured Coffee’ while A E J Emmerson won first prize for ‘Tobacco Cured in Leaf’. (Robert Gustkie grew coffee on Gustkie’s Hill which was located where Taylorwood is now situated.)

Prior to the 1920s and into the 1930s, C H (Harold) Waye farmed coffee on his 258 acres of land in the Caprioglio Road area, Conway. By 1920, he had secured a First Order of Merit for his coffee at the Brisbane Show.

The Brisbane “Courier Mail” story, “Queensland Coffee Growing” (August 2 1926), reported that Mr Waye had “sent to Townsville for inclusion in the tropical exhibit at the Brisbane Show some pure coffee grown and prepared for market by himself at Proserpine. The coffee is on show in Brisbane, Sydney, London, and Ottawa, and he has inquiries for large quantities from Ottawa, Sydney and from one of the largest firms in this State. The grower suggested that a ‘Queensland Coffee’ put on the world's market as boldly as is ‘Queensland Jam’ should be a success. But he does not find the Government very encouraging.”

By 1933, the quality of the coffee produced by Waye was acknowledged. The “Bowen Independent” (October 9 1933) published a letter written by Frank W Bullock, Secretary for Agriculture and Stock, regarding trials of coffee growing. It stated, “We are aware of the work that has been done with coffee by Mr Charles H Waye of Proserpine … The quality of the coffee produced by Mr Waye … is known to … my department.”

The letter recognised that the “principal difficulty associated with coffee production in Queensland is competition of imported coffee grown under cheap black labour conditions which mostly consists of an adulterated concoction of three parts chickory and one part coffee.” The letter concluded that it would be necessary to educate consumers on the merits of pure coffee and for the government to grant some protection but that such efforts were to no avail.

Perhaps it was the government’s lack of support that resulted in the demise of the industry in the Whitsundays.

Story courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum and photo sourced from “Proserpine Guardian” 18/04/2001

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Harold Waye surveying his crop at Conway

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It was a hot and humid morning last Sunday, 9 March, for the third annual Collinsville Sea of Pink.  More than 75 people ran, walked, scooted or rode their bikes for five kilometres in the town’s ‘virtual’ answer to the Brisbane International Women’s Day (IWD) Fun Run event, supported by Mater Chicks in Pink.

With the Brisbane IWD Fun Run event cancelled this year due to Tropical Cyclone Alfred, the wave of pink in the Queensland regions has made an even bigger impact, with people coming together to help spread the message about early detection and breast cancer research.

Community Gathers For Third Annual Sea Of Pink

The sun was high and shining strong as the finishers returned to the Collinsville Golf Club, eager to accept their reward of an icy pole and chill out in the shade. There were raffles and guessing games to play to help boost fundraising efforts, and the Collinsville QCWA volunteers cooked up bacon and egg wraps, savoury mince toasties and fresh fruit salad.  Local baker “Jenni’s Treats” donated some delectable pink cupcakes which were a hit with young and old alike.

At the time of writing, the Collinsville Sea of Pink has raised over $13,400 in support of Mater Chicks in Pink.

Funds raised go towards life-saving research at Mater Hospitals and also help provide practical items like mastectomy bras and wigs, helping women feel more like themselves and boost their confidence as they recover from their treatment.

For event participant Rebecca Sulusi, the day had special significance.

“My mum is a survivor and has been cancer free for the past six years, however many of her family members have not been as fortunate to catch it in the early stages,” Rebecca said.
“The fundraising efforts are such an important part of the journey to find a cure and improve treatment and care.  Without the awareness and funds to improve treatments I wouldn’t have my mum.”

This year, Collinsville was thrilled to welcome Whitsunday Regional Mayor Ry Collins to join the Sea of Pink.

Mayor Collins said it was fantastic to see Collinsville locals—young and old—lace up their runners for such an important cause.

“The great turnout showed that the Mater Sea of Pink Fun Run isn’t just about fitness; it’s about community standing together to support women in our community who are battling breast cancer,” Mayor Collins said.

"A huge well done to Alice and her incredible team of volunteers for putting together such a well-run event, and a big thank you to Glencore for their support.

"As a bonus, I’ve already ticked off 6,000 steps for the day! But more importantly, we’ve all taken steps toward raising awareness and funds for an incredibly worthy cause,” Mayor Collins said.

Collinsville Sea of Pink was proudly supported by local organisations and businesses, including Glencore’s Collinsville Open Cut operation, Collinsville Community Association, Collinsville QCWA, Collinsville Youth Coalition, and Collinsville Golf Club.  Prizes were donated by local businesses Heavy Logistics & Mechanical (HLM), Vex Engineering Services, N&S Abrasives, Opal Ridge Motel, Collinsville Workers Club, Collinsville Pharmacy, Beaute at the Ville and ERT Training Qld.

Event organiser Alice Randell thanks the Collinsville community for their support and encouragement.

“The event has become a milestone in the community’s calendar.  It’s great to see new and returning faces each year,” Alice said.

“Unfortunately, we continue to share new stories of breast cancer diagnoses, giving us pause to remember why we continue to come together, raise funds and show support to breast cancer patients and survivors.”

With one in seven women diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, the message is simple – check your boobies!

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Mayor Ry Collins joined the Collinsville Sea of Pink this year and said it was great to get his 6000 steps while raising funds and awareness for Breast Cancer. Photo supplied

Team HLM loved participating in the event
Charlee and Harper were keen to get involved
Jasmine loved the event

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Crocodiles are often considered the closest living relatives of dinosaurs. Despite this ancient lineage, they are remarkably complex creatures that survived the mass extinction event that ended the Cretaceous period around 66 million years ago. Today, many crocodiles inhabit Australia’s waterways, including the Proserpine River.

As cold-blooded reptiles, crocodiles rely on their environment to regulate their body temperature. Without an internal thermostat, they seek habitats with consistently warm water and air temperatures year-round.

Though often misunderstood, crocodiles play a vital role in wetland ecosystems. As apex predators, they help maintain the delicate balance of freshwater and estuarine environments by controlling prey populations. However, they are not just hunters—they also serve as prey in their early years, falling victim to feral pigs, goannas, turtles, barramundi, sea eagles, and even larger crocodiles.

By occupying both predator and prey roles, crocodiles contribute significantly to the health of wetland ecosystems. A thriving crocodile population is often a strong indicator of a healthy wetland—and when wetlands are in good condition, local fisheries benefit as well.

Fast Fact: Saltwater crocodiles have about 66 teeth that get replaced every 2-3 years and can go through over 3000 teeth in a lifetime!

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Sometimes, a good deed can sound as sweet as it feels, and that’s certainly the case with this week’s exciting news: music sensation Tones & I has announced she will be performing in Bowen!

Music lovers across the region will be thrilled to hear that one of the biggest stars of the moment is bringing her incredible talent to our sunny shores. This highly anticipated event will not only be a fantastic occasion for locals, but it will also shine a well-deserved spotlight on our region, helping to boost tourism and put Bowen on the map.

The exciting announcement was made by Tones & I herself on her official Facebook page:

“Even though I’m scared of flying, there’s one place that’s been calling me for a long time, and I finally have to reward you...
BOWEN.”

Much of the credit for this remarkable visit goes to Bowen local Katie English, who has spent the past six months campaigning for the Dance Monkey singer to make her way to Bowen.

“I don’t think anyone thought I could pull it off – but my persistence finally paid off!” Katie said in an interview with Channel 7.

“I’ve been relentless, stalking her on every social media platform for months!”

Though exact dates are still to be announced, the community can officially start getting excited for the incredible moment when Tones & I takes the stage in Bowen.

Congratulations to everyone involved in making this dream a reality!

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One of the great privileges of being Mayor is witnessing the next generation of leaders step up with enthusiasm, fresh ideas, and a strong commitment to their community.

Over the past few weeks, I have attended several school investiture ceremonies and Lions Youth of the Year events, and I can confidently say that the future of the Whitsundays is in good hands.

Leadership is more than just a title—it’s about taking action, making a difference, and inspiring those around you. The Whitsundays has always been built on the strength and resilience of its people, and it is encouraging to see our youth embracing these values and stepping forward with confidence.

The young leaders of today will become the business owners, community advocates, and decision-makers of tomorrow—some may even go on to serve in public office, perhaps one day as the Mayor of the Whitsundays!

No matter what path they take, the skills and qualities they develop now will shape not only their future but also the future of our region.

Programs like Lions Youth of the Year play a crucial role in fostering these skills, giving young people the opportunity to grow, learn, and develop confidence. As a community, we must continue to support and invest in the leaders of tomorrow, ensuring they have the tools and opportunities to thrive.

I want to congratulate all the young people stepping into leadership roles this year. Our community is behind you, and we are excited to see the impact you will make in the years ahead.

The future of the Whitsundays is bright, and it’s in very capable hands.

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On Sunday, the Proserpine Lions Club proudly hosted the Zone 9 Final of the prestigious Youth of the Year Australia program, showcasing the exceptional talents of four inspiring local students. The event, held at the Whitsunday Leisure Activity Centre, was a resounding success and highlighted the incredible potential of the young people in our community.

The four entrants, all representing different schools in the Whitsunday region, were:

Allegra Bradley – Proserpine State High School
Amelia McKay – St Catherine's Catholic College
An Nguyen – Bowen State High School
Kodi Mackie – Collinsville State High School

The competition was fierce, but it was Amelia McKay who emerged as the overall winner. Representing the Whitsunday Lions Club, Amelia will now go on to represent Zone 9 at the District level in Townsville, where she will compete against the best from across the region.

The event saw a series of powerful speeches and impromptu topics that demonstrated the skill and maturity of all the participants. Kodi Mackie, from Collinsville State High, was named the Public Speaking Winner for her captivating speech titled "Adult Time, Adult Crime." Her impromptu talk on the value of kindness also left a lasting impression on the judges and audience.

The event was a true celebration of the region's young talent, and the Lions Clubs of Whitsunday, Collinsville, and Bowen, along with the dedicated teachers and judges, deserve recognition for their hard work in organising this memorable day.

A special thanks also goes to the staff at the Whitsunday Leisure Activity Centre for providing such a welcoming and impressive venue.

Congratulations to all the entrants—Allegra, Amelia, An, and Kodi—for their outstanding performances. The Lions Clubs and the wider community are incredibly proud of these remarkable young women, and we look forward to seeing Amelia represent Zone 9 at the upcoming District finals.

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Representatives from local schools competed at the Youth of the Year Finals.
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox standing with Kodi Mackie who won the Public Speaking Award and Amelia McKay who was the overall winner

Photos supplied

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Save Our Foreshore was founded in 2004 by passionate Whitsunday residents who united in response to a proposal by McDonald’s for a half-meter highway sign featuring their iconic golden arches. This proposal sparked Save Our Foreshore's first major protest, igniting a wave of community activism that would shape the town’s future.

Wondering why the golden arches now sit discreetly on the building’s eaves rather than towering over the highway? The protest worked, leading to a significant shift in the development proposal.

The organisation's mission is to protect and enhance public access to coastal areas, preserving the ecological, scenic, and recreational values of coastal public lands for future generations.

Faye Chapman, the founder and leader of Save Our Foreshore, has been the driving force behind the organisation and a prominent figure in the community. Before moving to the Whitsundays, Faye was a dedicated advocate on the South Coast of New South Wales. Upon her arrival in the Whitsundays, she quickly recognised the area's natural beauty and understood the need for responsible development that would also preserve its unique charm for generations to come.

At the Zonta 2025 International Women's Day celebrations, Faye was honoured as 'Woman of the Year' for her unwavering dedication and tireless commitment to the community. Her efforts have left a lasting impact, inspiring others to take action and contribute to preserving the environment.

Though surprised by the recognition, Faye humbly expressed her gratitude: "I really appreciate the award, but I was totally stunned," she said.

Congratulations, Faye, on this well-deserved achievement and the incredible work you've done for your community and its environment.

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Saturday, March 8th marked International Women's Day, a day dedicated to celebrating the remarkable women who inspire change, challenge norms, and make a difference both globally and locally, including here in the beautiful Whitsundays.

Zonta Whitsundays hosted a lively and vibrant community event to honor the incredible women of the region. The celebration was filled with an array of delightful food, exciting raffles, heartfelt awards, sparkling moments, and a lively atmosphere that had everyone dancing and enjoying the company of one another. It was a day that truly brought the community together, creating lasting memories and recognising the strength, resilience, and achievements of women in the Whitsundays.

Two exceptional women who stood out on the day were Zonta's Women of the Year, Margaret Kurzok and Faye Chapman. Their unwavering dedication to the local community over the years has had a profound impact, and they continue to inspire those around them through their tireless efforts and selfless contributions. Their recognition was a testament to their years of hard work and passion for improving the lives of others in the Whitsundays.

Awards were also presented to younger generations, some of which had won scholarships with Zonta for their amazing efforts, including Zuri Potelli, Isabella o'sullivan, Eleanor Baldock, Thalia foster.

Mayor Ry Collins who attended the celebrations stated:

"It is great to see everyone coming together, I think it's really empowering the women in our community.

"I think that the theme of this year's one is about bridging that gender gap from an equality point of view.

"I think it would be a mistake to assume that these issues will resolve themselves on their own. We can't just flick a switch and expect everything to be fixed.

"It takes the efforts of groups like Zonta,to really keep putting these things on the agenda and making sure that we're moving in the right direction with key issues for women."

"As mayor of the region, I've got a role to play in making sure that our women have a really strong place in our community, and the things I really try to focus on are safety, security and making sure that there's opportunities for women in their community."

Marlene Reiffel, Zonta Whitsundays president, also reflected on the days festivities:

"International Womens Day is important because it's recognised worldwide for women, and we need that recognition desperately.

"Not only do we need that recognition but we also can showcasing some of the fantastic people in our community."

What began as a day filled with laughter, fun, and recognition has become a poignant reminder of the importance of cherishing the remarkable women in your life.

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Hi Everyone,

Sometimes it feels like there are inspiring people everywhere in our community.

This week, I reconnected with one of my favorite local heroes, Shell Wardrope, who lost her leg after it was infected by a soil-borne bacteria last year. Instead of falling into self-pity or asking, “Why me?”, this incredible woman exudes positivity and gratitude in every aspect of her life.

Reconnecting with her reminded me of this once again as she filled me in on her latest plan to get the Mayor to do 50 squats with her at a community event at the end of the month—all to raise money for the charity that flew her home after her lengthy hospital stay. You can read about her latest antics on page 3.

It was also wonderful to hear from the organizers of Collinsville’s Sea of Pink event again this year. This inspiring group has raised an incredible amount of money for breast cancer over the last few years.

Moving on, we have another local hero, Kate Cross, who survived a snake bite and, instead of playing the victim, championed the community for helping her when she needed it most.

This evening (Wednesday), I’m heading to the Proserpine Entertainment Centre to see one of our family’s heroes—Ahn Doh. This guy has to be one of the most inspiring people on the planet, and he knows how to make you laugh, which is an added bonus!

My son and I are obsessed with his kids’ stories—The Ninja Kid, Hot Dog, and Pow Pow Pig, to name a few. Tonight, however, Ahn Doh will be talking about his book, The Happiest Refugee, and I’m excited to introduce my seven-year-old son to such an inspiring role model.

Young or old, I believe it’s so important to fill our minds with inspiration and positivity—not only does it make us happier, but it also spreads an attitude of kindness and gratitude, rather than focusing on trauma and tragedy.

Rach

Quote of the Week:
"If the worst happens, if you lose and fail, but you still celebrate coming second because you’ve given it a red-hot go, there is no need to fear failure."
— Ahn Doh

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Meet Poppet, a 6-year-old, pint-sized dynamo of a Jack Russell with a heart as big as her personality! Surrendered to Bowen and Collinsville Pet Rescue, this little lady is ready to steal your heart.

Poppet is a big fan of kids and is always up for a game or cuddle session. She's also got a curious streak when it comes to cats—she'll sit quietly and observe, trying to crack the mystery of their feline ways.

When it comes to road trips, Poppet is your co-pilot of choice! She absolutely loves perching herself in the centre console, ready for whatever adventure comes her way.

On walks, Poppet is a dream—she glides along on a lead like she’s walking on air. While she hasn’t been tested off-lead yet, we’re confident she’d rock that too with the right supervision.

Poppet would thrive in a home where someone is around often to give her the love and attention she craves. Could that be with you?

If you'd like to adopt Poppet contact Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc:
• Phone: 0459 757 455
• Facebook: Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue
• Email: bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com

Sex: Female
Breed: Jack Russell
Adoption Fee: $850
Kid friendly: Yes
Cat Friendly: Yes
Dog Friendly: Yes

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Working Together for Growth: Strengthening the Whitsundays!

Progress happens when business, government, and community work together. Across all levels—local, state, and federal—we’re seeing a stronger commitment to collaboration, helping to advance major projects that will shape the future of the Whitsundays.

One exciting opportunity on the horizon is the push to bring Olympic sailing to the Whitsundays in 2032. Mayor Ry Collins has been actively advocating for our region to be considered as a host or co-host for sailing events, highlighting our world-class conditions, existing infrastructure, and global reputation as Australia’s premier sailing destination.

Hosting Olympic events here would deliver significant economic and tourism benefits, directly supporting local businesses and showcasing our region on an international stage.

Just as we’re working alongside government to drive large-scale projects, we’re also committed to supporting businesses at a local level. To ensure we’re addressing real-time challenges and opportunities, the Chamber will be activating a Proserpine Subcommittee and our strategic Chamber Advisory Group in the coming months. These groups will provide immediate feedback, shape advocacy efforts, and strengthen business connectivity.

Stay tuned for updates and outcomes from these meetings! If you’d like to get involved, we’d love to hear from you. Your voice matters in shaping the future of business in our region.

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We’re on the hunt for creative designs for our new library bookmarks! Three lucky winners will have their designs professionally printed and shared in all four Whitsunday Regional Libraries!

PLUS, winners and two runners-up will receive $20 gift vouchers to the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, which can be used for cinema or live shows.

Judging categories are:  Adult Design, Youth Design (12–18 years) and Junior Design (11 years and under).

Head to Your Say Whitsunday to download the template or pick up a hard copy from your local Library.  Submit your design in person at your local Whitsunday Regional Library or email your them to info@whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au. Entries close 3pm, 15 May 2025.

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NORTH Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) has held its first community reference group (CRG) meeting based in Bowen this week.

The inaugural CRG meeting reaffirms NQBP’s long-standing commitment to meaningful community consultation and engagement.

“NQBP is dedicated to fostering strong relationships between our ports and the local communities,” NQBP Chief Executive Officer Brendan Webb said.

“These meetings provide an invaluable forum for sharing updates on trade performance, key infrastructure projects, and environmental initiatives while allowing community representatives to voice their concerns and feedback,” Mr Webb said.

“We are committed to transparent communication and collaboration, ensuring that our projects take community expectations into consideration,” Mr Webb said.

“The CRGs serve as an active platform for building relationships, exchanging insights, and reinforcing our commitment to responsible port operations.”

“It was great to welcome our new members to the CRG.”

Hon Dale Last MP, Member for Burdekin said the consultation was vitally important for both the business community and residents in Bowen because NQBP is a major contributor to the town’s economy and liveability.

“The Bowen Jetty is important infrastructure as both an icon and a tourism attraction, so it is vital that the community was consulted with and had input into the future of that infrastructure.”

Topics of discussion during the meeting included an overview of NQBP’s economic impact, updates on the progress of major projects such as the Bowen Jetty, and information on NQBP’s sponsorships and donations program.

NQBP’s CRGs which are also held in Hay Point and Mackay have been a cornerstone of NQBP’s community engagement for more than two decades.

The CRGs include representatives from local residents, local government, local businesses, the port industry, traditional owner groups, and environmental groups.
For a list of the newly appointed CRG members and meeting documentation please visit www.nqbp.com.au.

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The first meeting of NQBP’s Bowen and Abbot Point Community Reference Group at the Bowen Community Centre.

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As cyclones are a current topic of discussion, we thought it might be useful to share a few notes about our experiences with them. When a cyclone system approaches our waters, the Harbour Master may close the ports to navigation. This means that vessels at sea within the affected area must seek shelter, and no new vessels should enter the waters. This is not the time to launch your tinnie for a family fishing trip.

Last year, with the approach of a cyclone, we were surprised to be activated by Queensland Police Service (QPS) and given an exemption to leave port in order to rescue a family stranded in their broken-down speedboat. Fortunately, the family was only a mile offshore, which meant it wasn’t as rough as it could have been further out. Still, the wind was ferocious.

The mother and children were crying, and the father was beginning to panic. It was far too rough to raft up to the boat, so we had to use a heaving line to get the tow line over to them. As the line was tossed, a gust of wind caught it and propelled it over the top of the boat. This actually worked in our favour, giving the father time to grab the line and attach the tow rope.

He requested to be taken to his mooring near the Sailing Club, from where he planned to use his tender to bring his family ashore. However, just as we were about to head to the mooring, his tender broke free. With the wind howling, an empty tender blew quickly across the water.

So, what to do? Having dealt with situations like this before, we circled back, passing the tender, turned around, and waited for it to blow back alongside us. Ray, was able to reach out with our long boat hook and snag the tender. He was nearly pulled overboard, but quick-thinking crew members grabbed him by the pants and pulled him back to safety. We secured the tender alongside and proceeded to the nearest mooring. Fortunately, with all the yachts having sought shelter, we had plenty of options for a safe mooring.

We were all relieved to head back to the safety of our berth at Coral Sea Marina.
If you’d like to help us in our mission, please consider becoming a volunteer by visiting: vmrwhitsundays.com.au/volunteer/ and find out how you can get involved.

Contributed with thanks by Shane Newell, VMRW President.

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At Explore Property, they’re experts in property marketing and all things real estate, and passionate about promoting their business, as shown by their exciting giveaway! From March 1st to June 28th, anyone who books a sales or rental appraisal with Explore Property Whitsunday and likes and follows their Facebook page, could win a brand-new MG3 valued at $20,000, complete with 12 months of registration.

Even if selling your property isn’t on the cards, this giveaway is for everyone. Simply book a price update or request a rental proposal and you're in the running, no listing required! This is the perfect opportunity for anyone interested in staying up to date with their property’s value while having the chance to win a fantastic auto prize.

To enter, simply visit www.explorepropertywhitsunday.com.auand register your details, book an appraisal, and make sure to follow their Facebook page for the winning announcement. It's a simple and fun way to get a property update and score the chance to drive away in a brand-new automatic MG3!

The winner will be drawn randomly on June 29th, 2025, so don’t miss out! The car is here and waiting for its new owner, so act quickly. For full terms and conditions are available on the Explore Property website so, what are you waiting for? Explore your property and explore your chance to win today!

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Bowen Tourism and Business (BTB) is running an Easter colouring-in competition for local students from Prep to Year 4. The students from Bowen State School, Merinda State School, Queens Beach State School and St Marys Catholic School have the opportunity to take part by colouring in a pic of Kenny the Mango Mascot.

The competition will be judged by Bowen Tourism and Business volunteers and the prizes will be special merchandise packs from the Bowen Visitor Information Centre including a Kenny plush toy, water game and an ice-cream. There will also be fun encouragement awards for those who put in great effort.

The competition closes well before Easter on the 24th of March, this is so the entries can be displayed at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre for all visitors to see, and there will be two prizes for every grade at each school. The competition is being organised by BTB Sales and Admin Consultant, Cindy Tonks, who came up with the idea.

“We are very much looking forward to seeing the student’s artwork and displaying them on our wall at the Visitor information Centre,” she said.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said "This was all about community engagement and getting kids involved and interested in tourism,”

“The response from the schools has been fantastic and we are also looking forward to a special presentation once the competition had been judged,” she said.

Bowen State School Head of Curriculum, Therese Smalley visited the centre last week to check out the prize packs and she said all the kids are very excited to be celebrating Easter in Bowen.

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Bowen Tourism and Business Sales and Admin Consultant Cindy Tonks and Bowen State School Head of Curriculum Therese Smalley with the Easter colouring-in competition and the prize packs. Photo Provided: Leanne Abernethy

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International Women's Day was celebrated in style at Jubilee Tavern over the weekend. Everyone got involved selling raffle tickets in the weeks leading up to the draw and placing eye-catching posters and signs to spread the word for Zonta’s campaign of ‘Say NO to Violence Against Women.’

“I just think they're doing a magnificent job. And also, by doing this event for us, they're actually getting the word out that it's not right to abuse women and children,” says Dianne Trueman, an Ex President of Zonta Whitsunday. Both Dianne and Marlene Reiffel, the Current Zonta President, attended the raffle to help announce the winners of the delicious draw prizes.

“We've been very excited and I think Jubilee Tavern has been fantastic. They’ve got all the signs up, the posters, and they've even got all those balloons on the stage,” said Marlene, “They've really embraced the whole International Women's Day and enjoyed sending that money to support Zonta.”

Maz Scott the Functions Manager and Bistro Supervisor, was going from table to table until the last moment before the raffle selling tickets. She said, “I’m so excited to support International Women's Day I've never had the opportunity to do so before. And so, it's pretty special that I get to be a part of it this year.”

Ryan the Venue Manager, was the raffle MC and said he was very proud of his staff.

“It’s been a great experience as it's really touched a lot of the staff here. They really resonated with it, so they really actioned it and really went for it. It was nice to be able to give them that opportunity and I really enjoyed tonight. It’s great to see a lot of people supporting worthy cause.”

The participants of the raffle managed to fundraise over $600, all donated to the Zonta Whitsundays. For three of the raffle winners, it was a serendipitous occasion. One table were in town for a holiday and just decided to eat at Jubilee Tavern that night, and collectively, they won the great Zonta prize box and bubbly champagne, along with the giant BBQ meat tray. The other in-house winner of the night had only just bought his raffle ticket 15 minutes before the event started, but his luck saw him take home the grand seafood platter.

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Maz, the winner of the seafood platter, Marlene, Ryan and Dianne. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
Jubilee Tavern presents the $670 to Zonta. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
Laine Shaw and her daughter Amelia, winners of the meat tray. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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The shared footpath project on Renwick Rd is making significant progress, with completion expected by the end of the month—weather permitting. This much-needed upgrade will improve safety for students, families, and pedestrians, with several key developments underway.

A new fence is being installed along the footpath near Proserpine State School to ensure a secure environment for those using the path. With the school's drop-off car parks now reopened, the final phase of the project is set to focus on completing the remaining 80 meters of footpath that will extend to Stanbury St. The installation of raised priority pedestrian crossings on key intersections like Stanbury St, Keith Johns Dr, Fuljames St, and Carnation St will further enhance safety, allowing students and families to cross more safely.

While traffic management measures are in place to mitigate congestion, the community is encouraged to stay updated on the progress through the Your Say Whitsunday Online Engagement Portal. These efforts are supported by the State Government’s Cycle Network Local Government Grants Program.

As the project nears its conclusion, it’s clear that these improvements are vital for ensuring pedestrian safety and easing traffic flow in the area. With the promise of better infrastructure, the community is one step closer to a safer and more accessible Renwick Rd.

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Last weekend the Greater Whitsunday Vets held an open day for their brand-new Proserpine clinic. It was a great, albeit hot, day with many visitors coming from all over to see the clinic and browse the stalls. There wasn’t a plain face in sight as all the children proudly showed off their new looks thanks to the free face-painting booth.

"Over 750 people attended our new clinics open day,” said Georgia Bowser, Practice Manager, recounting that the day was a great success. She wanted to give thanks to their sponsors and partners for providing support allowing the day to go off without a hitch: Provet, Lisa from Royal Canin, Ainsley from Hills, Jaime from Zoetis, and Jason from MSD.

There was much to see and do, from clinic tours to 32 market stalls to peruse. You could even register yourself and your pet with the clinic staff to enter into a raffle! All the stalls and prizes were local or animal related, so many took home a piece of Proserpine that day, whether that was a brand-new bridle for their horse or a fabulous Hawaiian shirt decorated with the regions map. You could even adopt a hand-crocheted chicken!

“More than 100 people took part in our clinic tours, and they also enjoyed petting our little piglet, baby guinea fowls, alpaca, and dogs. They were a huge hit with the visitors especially the children,” said Georgia, “Rilo, with her ice cream van, was kept busy all day thanks to the hot weather!"

The new clinic was happy to have received such support on their open day, from the bush to the beach, they’ll be here for you 24/7 for you animal emergency. Or book in an appointment for one of their many offered services!

The new Proserpine clinic is open Monday – Friday: 8:30 am - 5.00pm and their Bowen clinic is open Monday – Wednesday & Friday 8:30am – 5pm, and Thursday: 8:30am - 7pm. Please know that both clinics are closed on the weekend.

From small pets to horses to livestock, the Greater Whitsunday Vets Services are here for all you animal needs.

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(Vet Liaison), and Charlotte (Vet Liaison) signing up new clients. Photo Credit Victoria Velton.
Front: Dr Jason Mansfield seated, Caitlin (Vet Liaison), Charlotte (Vet Liaison), Back: Melissa Mansfield (Administration), Charlee (Floor Nurse), Georgia Bowser (Operations Manager). Photo Credit: Victoria Velton

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