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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In Proserpine, Home Brewitt has quickly become a go-to destination for hobby brewers of all kinds, offering everything from ingredients to equipment for brewing your own beer, and mixing spirits. The store, which opened its doors a year and a half ago by husband-and-wife duo John and Caroline McGovern. It’s a labour of love driven by the passion of John, an avid home brewer, and his wife, who is equally enthusiastic about the experience.

Their diverse customer base, which stretches from Mackay to Bowen, and even the Isaac region, is a testament to how well the business has been received. Whether you're a first-time brewer or a seasoned pro, Home Brewitt has something for everyone. “People are always happy to come here because it's their hobby," Caroline says, "They love talking about their craft.”

The store offers a wide variety of ingredients for brewing, everything from beers and ginger beer to spirit flavouring, sarsaparilla, and hard lemonade mixes. The couple takes pride in providing not only the essentials but also the more unique, specialty ingredients you won't find in typical hobby brew shops. “We have everything from the raw ingredients all the way to the final equipment they can use to pour their own beers from their home taps,” she explains.

If you’re just starting out, they make it easy with starter kits. For just $100, you get everything you need to brew 23 litres of high-quality beer, including the raw ingredients and equipment. These starter kits allow home brewers to craft flavourful beers with minimal effort. And for those who are more adventurous in their brewing, Home Brewitt provides a variety of flavouring options to enhance your creations.

Whether it's adding a unique twist to whiskey or gin with special flavourings, or using wood chips to infuse rum with oaky-smoky, the possibilities are endless. "People like to make it to their own flavour, changing the profile to how they like it," says Caroline, noting that customers often turn their brews into thoughtful gifts.

The store also thrives on giving great personalised advice: “We try to provide all the advice we can and if we don’t have the answer, we try to find the answer, and we work together,” says Caroline. John’s experimentation with different beers is a big part of what makes the store’s selection unique. “He doesn’t stick to one recipe. He likes to experiment with different things, which is why I think we have some products that you don’t see very often in other hobby shops,” she adds.

For those with a brewing passion, Home Brewitt is more than just a store—it's a community where people can share knowledge, discover new flavours, and take pride in crafting their own drinks. It's a small business with a big heart, where every customer is treated like family, and the experience is as much about learning as it is about brewing.

Caroline behind the counter, with a home brew tap and some of their other products on display. Photo Credit: Victoria Velton

Caroline with all their beer flavour options. Photo Credit: Victoria Velton

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The Whitsundays has long been a beloved destination for LGBTQ+ travellers, especially during the late 90s when Daydream Island was affectionately known as "Gay Dream Island", for travellers holidaying after Sydney’s Mardi Gras. Nathan Fleming, a pillar of the Whitsundays LGBTQ+ community for over 20 years, remembers those days fondly. "Back in the day, the late 90s, Daydream Island was a popular hot spot. After Sydney Mardi Gras, everyone would head up here and have a big party session in the Whitsundays," Nathan recalls.

But despite the excitement of that era, there was a long stretch of silence. Pride events were rare, and LGBTQ+ representation was all but absent. "There hasn't really been anything (Pride events). It's only this year they've actually sort of done something about Pride Week," Nathan explains. Pride Week 2025 saw a revival as for the first time in years, several local businesses embraced LGBTQ+ tourists with a series of events, from Sundowner’s Pride cruise to the Magnums drag shows, and the Airlie Beach Hotel’s Gaga vs. Pink tribute shows. This marked a hopeful turning point for the region.

Nathan, openly gay and well-respected within the Whitsunday community, reflects on his journey. "I was a drag queen representing the Whitsundays one year, and my drag name was Sandy Inlet," he laughs. His involvement in local events and initiatives helped bridge the gap, ensuring visibility for LGBTQ+ individuals. “People all know about me because I’m very open about it. I don’t hide anything.”

With his partner Benny and their two dogs, Jethro and Rufus, Nathan is proud to live and work in a place that is gradually becoming more inclusive. "The community are really accepting of it, and they're taking them in with open arms," he says. This growing acceptance has encouraged other local businesses to step up, hoping to make the Whitsundays a more welcoming destination for LGBTQ+ tourists. Nathan’s role in GALTA (Gay and Lesbian Tourism Australia) has further solidified the region’s commitment to inclusive tourism.

However, the journey has not been without its struggles, with Nathan reflecting on moments of exclusion. But his response? “You’ll respect the people in this group and everything that we have to say, we're a diverse group of people.” The resilience and spirit of the LGBTQ+ community are undeniable, and the local support has only strengthened over the years.

As the Whitsundays looks ahead, Nathan is optimistic. He hopes that Pride Week next year will see even more events, building on the success of 2025. “There’s a lot of support from local businesses, and it’s clear that the Whitsundays is becoming a place where LGBTQ+ travellers can feel welcome and celebrated,” he shares.

For now, Nathan and the community stand proud, waving the flag for progress. His legacy of openness, support, and inclusion continues to inspire. The Whitsundays, once a haven for LGBTQ+ travellers in the 90s, is experiencing a queer renaissance. With a commitment to growing acceptance and support from both locals and tourists alike, this beautiful corner of Australia is ready to welcome more LGBTQ+ with open arms into its Heart.

For more LGBTQ+ safe and welcoming tourist destinations, groups and travel advice, check out: visitgayaustralia.com.au

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Nathan Fleming, representing the Whitsundays as Sandy Inlet at GAYTE in 2023. Photo Supplied: Nathan Fleming
LGBTQ+ tourists enjoying themselves in the Whitsundays. Photo Supplied: Nathan Fleming
Nathan Fleming in his before and after transformation to Sandy Inlet at GAYTE 2023. Photo Supplied: Nathan Fleming

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Cane toads can be found everywhere across Queensland and persistent action needs to be taken to remove them. The Watergum Cane Toad Challenge came back again this year for their annual Great Cane Toad Bust event. With over 50,000 toads removed last year, they hoped to match that number and surpass it this season with state-wide help.

Being prolific breeders, Cane Toads are notorious pests producing up to 30,000 eggs at a time, and can live up to 10 years. They are toxic at all stages of their life cycle and when ingested, the toads’ skin and poison glands can kill many animals. They easily destroy ecosystems, devouring everything they can fit in their mouths as they are very resourceful omnivores.

The Great Toad Bust aims to put a stop to their spread, and one day remove them from Australia.

Thousands of participants across Queensland registered their efforts over the week-long Cane Toad Challenge event showing just how many toads they could remove to protect their own communities from this invasion. Studies show control efforts like specialised traps, can remove up to 47% of cane toads from localised populations and the Watergum website has many helpful tips on how to trap and humanly euthanise the toads.

If you want to help your local wildlife thrive again or just keep your own farm’s dam clear from pests, then get toad hunting! Though the event may be over, there are still plenty of toads about. Congratulations to everyone who went busting and set the new record at over 115,000 cane toads removed from all stages of live. Check out the results and see how you can help out: watergum.org/greatcanetoadbust/ Happy busting!

Huge toad busted weighing at 420g. Photo Credit: Mt Barney Lodge Facebook

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What better way to end the working week than feasting on the freshest seafood I could ask for with Whitsunday Sailing Club’s Seafood Platter for Two. This mouthwatering platter is packed with the finest local seafood, sourced from a range of top suppliers, including one of our local favourites, Fishi, guaranteeing the freshest, tastiest bites from the sea.

Get ready to indulge in a variety of flavours and textures, from the crispy battered Red Emperor Fish to the juicy local prawns, smoked salmon, fresh oysters, golden soft shell crab, and salt and pepper squid, which are tender and packed full of flavour. Each element is expertly prepared to let the natural freshness shine.

What makes this seafood feast even better? You can enjoy it while soaking in the breezy, laid-back vibes of the Whitsunday Sailing Club. Whether you're relaxing on the deck watching the boats sail by or enjoying the vibrant atmosphere inside, there’s no better place to dig into this seafood treasure.

Treat your bestie, or bring your whole crew, and share the love (and the platter!) at the Whitsunday Sailing Club. It’s fresh, it’s a feast, and it’s absolutely yummy—come hungry, leave happy!

Contributed by Jade Yvonne, Business Development Executive, Tourism Whitsundays

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The Whitsundays is off to a flying start in 2025, breaking records left, right, and centre!

In just two months, The Whitsundays has welcomed 27 cruise ships, bringing over 66,000 passengers to our region. Around 52,000 of them have stepped off to soak up the sun, explore Airlie Beach and beyond and support local businesses. And it’s not slowing down—another 13 cruise ships are set to arrive in March, proving The Whitsundays is a must-stop destination for cruise lovers.

Whitsunday Coast Airport has smashed records of its own, with over 50,000 passengers passing through in January - its busiest month ever! With direct flights connecting us to major cities and even more routes on the horizon, it’s never been easier to visit our slice of paradise.

More visitors mean more buzz, more business and more love for our beautiful region - we can’t wait to see what the rest of the year brings.

Contributed by Tourism Whitsundays

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Hi Everyone,

For the past decade,I’ve had the privilege of being part of the Life Publishing Groupfamily. When I first joined, we were printing two bi-monthlymagazines. Fast forward to today, and we now produce four weeklynewspapers alongside those same two magazines.

It’s been anincredible journey—one filled with growth, determination, breakingbarriers, and plenty of laughter along the way. We've embraced everychallenge, thinking outside the box, and smashing stereotypes atevery turn. What a wild ride it’s been!

This week, however,marks a significant moment for the company. My mentor, my hero, myguiding force, and the woman who has championed me since day one—BecDouthwaite—is about to embark on her own adventure with herhusband, our beloved ‘paper delivery boy,’ Douth.

The two of them areventuring overseas where they will be taking an extended vacation tothe UK, to spend quality time with family.

To say we’ll missthem both is an understatement. While Bec will continue to be a partof the business, offering advice and mentorship whenever we need it,the thought of them being thousands of miles away is hard to grasp.

Amidst all thischange, however, I can’t help but feel excited for what’s ahead.Over the past year, Bec has stepped away from the day-to-dayoperations of the business, and I’ve had the privilege of leadingthe team under her mentorship.

So, even thoughshe’s been just down the road, in many ways, I’ve already beenstepping into the role I’m now about to officially take on—leadingthe company.

It’s with greatpride and humility that I accept this position, and I want to extendmy heartfelt thanks to both Bec and Douth for placing their trust inme.

I know this businessis like a second child to you (and it is to me as well!), and Ipromise to treat it with the same care and dedication, working hardto make you both proud.

For our readers,I’ll still be based in the Whitsundays and will continue to overseethis newspaper closely. I am, however, also responsible for our otherpublications, traveling across the regions each month. This meanssome of our talented cadet journalists will have the opportunity toshine in the Editor’s note from time to time.

As the companyenters a new chapter, I want to take a moment to wish Bec and Douththe most incredible time overseas. We’ve shared so many wonderfulmemories, and I’m sure there are many more to come! When you’reready to return, we’ll all be here, eagerly waiting to welcome youback.

Rach

Quote of the Week:“Only those who dare, truly live” Ruth P Freedman

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Did you know that from 1 January 2025, intentionally underpaying an employee’s wages or entitlements can be a criminal offence? This doesn’t include honest mistakes.

The Voluntary Small Business Wage Compliance Code Declaration 2024 (the Code) came into effect at the beginning of the year, alongside Australia’s new federal wage theft laws.

The Code provides small businesses (those with fewer than 15 employees) with a framework to avoid prosecution for underpayments that occur unintentionally. It highlights the critical need for small businesses to take a proactive approach to wage compliance.

While participation in the code is voluntary, non-compliance with wage laws, including adherence to industry awards, carries significant risks.

The Fair Work Ombudsman has the authority to impose substantive civil penalties for breaches whether known or unknown – including hefty fines, back-pay orders, possible imprisonment, and reputational damage.

To safeguard your business, it’s essential to:

regularly review payroll systems,
ensure all wages and entitlements align with industry awards and legal standards, and
maintain accurate, up-to-date records.
Proactively addressing compliance not only minimises the risk of penalties but also strengthens trust with your employees and demonstrates your commitment to fair and lawful practices.

Don’t wait for an issue to arise—take action now to ensure your business is fully compliant. If you need guidance Chamber member, Mark Lipkin from The Airlie Group, offers members 1-hour free consultations on industrial relations. Contact Mark today at mark@airliegroup.com.au

For more information, see the Fair Work Ombudsman’s website: https://www.fairwork.gov.au/about-us/compliance-and-enforcement/criminal-prosecution/voluntary-small-business-wage-compliance-code

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Hi everyone!

Last weekend was Clean Up Australia Day, and it was fantastic to see so many wonderful organisations doing their bit to keep the beautiful Whitsundays clean.

I had the chance to visit Coral Sea Marina and witness firsthand the incredible amount of rubbish collected by volunteers.

It is heartwarming to see communities and businesses coming together for such an important cause. Back in Sydney, I often took part in scuba diving clean-ups where we removed rubbish from the ocean floor. I even once found a shopping trolley with an eel living inside.

I am currently working on my Advanced Open Water qualification and cannot wait to continue progressing in scuba diving. I am especially excited about getting involved in more environmental projects, including hopefully earning my shark and coral reef conservation specialities.

Happy reading!

Ruth

“What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.”
― Dr Jane Goodall

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Plunging into the ocean’s depths, you might be fortunate enough to encounter a Moray Eel. Known for their fierce appearance and impressive diversity, these fascinating creatures captivate divers and marine enthusiasts alike.

Beyond their striking looks, Moray Eels play a vital role as apex predators in coral reef ecosystems. Inhabiting warm, reef-rich waters, they help maintain ecological balance by preying on fish, crabs, shrimp, squid, octopuses, and even scavenging weakened or dead organisms.

Moray eels are as remarkable as their hunting technique. Expertly camouflaged within the reef, they lie in wait before launching a swift ambush. Equipped with specialised jaws and razor-sharp teeth, they can tear into prey or crush it with ease. While not typically dangerous to humans, they do pack a nasty bite. Their presence even influences the distribution of other reef species, including sharks, underscoring the intricate dynamics of marine food webs.

Although not currently classified as threatened, Moray Eels face growing risks from human activities. Conservation initiatives, such as marine protected areas and sustainable fishing practices, are crucial to safeguarding their habitats and ensuring their populations thrive for generations to come.

Fast Fact: Moray Eels can grow up to a staggering 1.5 metres

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It is easy to see Whitsunday Islands and surrounding fringing reefs as static and unchanging. But that is not true, as slow, gradual changes often go unnoticed. Over time these changes may become accepted as the status quo, the way things have always been. This phenomenon is called shifting baseline syndrome.

Shifting baseline describes a gradual change in our accepted norms and expectations for the environment across generations. Unfortunately, our tolerance for environmental degradation increases and our expectations for the natural world are lowered.

Our Whitsunday Island coral reefs are a classic example. Only 50 years ago, the quality and abundance of coral and fish was significantly better than today. As well, the water clarity, on average, was much better. But over time, the reefs have deteriorated due to poor water quality, crown-of-thorns starfish, cyclones, coral bleaching and other impacts.

But people experiencing the island reefs for the first time today would accept what they see as the norm. For the most part, today’s visitors are happy with what they see because they don’t know any better, and that is sad.

This example shows how shifting baselines affect our perception and acceptance of the state of the natural world. In truth similar changes are occurring all around us.

The consequences of shifting baseline syndrome are dire and include an increased tolerance for progressive environmental degradation, changes in people's expectations as to what is a desirable (worth protecting) state of the natural environment, and the establishment and use of inappropriate baselines for nature conservation, restoration, and management.

Now the real challenge is to look beyond the current status quo. We need to move the clock back and help rebuild the natural environment.

You can fight the growing Shifting Baseline Syndrome and help rebuild our natural environment by supporting conservation organisations, reducing our carbon footprint, participating in citizen science activities, supporting only sustainable businesses and industries, and raising awareness. Together, we can help reduce the relentless decline of the environment and provide current and future generations with a more stable baseline of what the world should be.

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Contributed by Whitsunday Conservation Council.

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Healthy Reef

Unhealthy Reef

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Cleaning up the coastline is no small task, but it’s one that the Whitsundays community is eager to take on. On Sunday, March 2nd, Coral Sea Marina became the heart of action for the annual Clean Up Australia Day event. Volunteers, fueled by a shared passion for preserving the region’s pristine coastline, came together to make a real difference.

In partnership with the Tangaroa Blue Foundation and the ReefClean program, they tackled the shoreline, collecting litter with dedication and teamwork. But the effort didn’t stop there – after the hard work of gathering the debris, it was sorted and cataloged for the Australian Marine Debris Initiative (AMDI).

This crucial data helps track pollution sources and drives forward innovative strategies to reduce waste, ensuring that the breathtaking beauty of the Whitsundays can be enjoyed for generations to come.

Volunteers gathered at Meeting Point D, Coral Sea Marina at 8:30 am on Sunday, equipped with gloves and collection bags. After the clean-up, they learned about the impacts of marine debris and ways to protect the oceans.

A total of 61 volunteers collected an incredible 250.5 kg of waste from Airlie Beach over the morning.

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As Mayor, I have the privilege of seeing firsthand the strength, resilience, and contributions of women across the Whitsundays.

From business owners to community leaders, volunteers to frontline workers, women are at the heart of what makes our region thrive. However, while we have made great strides toward gender equality, there is still work to be done.

Saturday, March 8 marks International Women’s Day 2025, a day to celebrate the achievements of women while acknowledging that progress towards gender equality must move faster.

This year’s theme, "Collectively, we can Accelerate Action for Gender Equality," highlights the urgency of breaking down systemic barriers and biases that still exist.

At the current rate, full gender parity won’t be reached until 2158—five generations from now. That’s simply too long. We need to step forward in solidarity and #AccelerateAction to create real, lasting change.

I am proud that within Council and within our Whitsundays community, we’ve made great strides. Two of our past four Whitsunday Regional Council Mayors have been women, and many senior positions in Council are held by talented female leaders.

This is proof that when given the opportunity, women excel. But equality isn’t just about leadership—it’s about ensuring every woman in our region has the safety, economic security, and opportunities she deserves.

One of the most effective ways to advance gender equality is to identify what works and do more of it, faster. Whether that’s increasing support for women in business, advocating for safer communities, or addressing the gender pay gap, acting now will shape a stronger future for all

Change happens when communities, businesses, and governments work together. In the Whitsundays, we are proud of the progress we’ve made, but we also know there is more to do.

Together, let’s #AccelerateAction to speed up the rate of progress worldwide.

To all the women in our region: we see you, we support you, and we stand with you.

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Compared to many other parts of the world, the waters of the Whitsundays are quite benign. The many islands and their mountain peaks provide prominent landmarks to guide vessels safely around the numerous hazards that potentially exist. However, for a variety of reasons such as bad weather, carelessness and outdated charts in the past, there have been victims over that last two centuries.

Previous editions of this paper have related the stories of the “Heroine”, SS “Llewellyn”, “Valetta” and the Whaler tragedy. This week’s story describes the fortunes, or should we say the misfortunes, of the “Veleiro”, a Portuguese Barque under the command of Captain Lorenzo Fullaondo, which left Port Douglas on January 20, 1880, bound for Melbourne and carrying a cargo of cedar.

Eleven days into her journey, as she sailed in the Whitsunday area, she encountered what the ship’s notes described as “boisterous weather”. Endeavouring to reach Pioneer Point for shelter, she struck Pioneer Rock and held fast, though taking water badly.

The decision was made to abandon ship and the captain and his eleven crew took to two boats and headed for Bowen. Upon their safe arrival, enquiries into the incident were difficult – none of the crew spoke English and no one in Bowen spoke Portuguese!

The ship remained fast on Pioneer Rock but subsequent to a report from Captain Lake of the “Katoomba” that she had disappeared, the government cutter from Bowen was despatched to the scene only to find that the “Veleiro” was still on the rock. Perhaps it was the hazy weather that had misled Captain Lake.

The vessel had, however, been stripped of everything moveable. It was evident to the crew of the cutter that the “Veleiro” was so firmly wedged that she was destined to stay there until she fell apart.

On March 8, prominent Bowen merchant and importer, Donald Millar, sent three men to the scene in his boat “The Frenchman”, and they camped on Pioneer Point until the salvage was to be completed. During the next few days, the men boarded the wreck several times but on March 11, in a severe rip around the rock, the punt in which the men approached the wreck capsized and one of the men, Harry Martin, was drowned. His body was never found. Martin had been one of a party which carried out one of the earliest surveys of the Proserpine River in 1879.

It is unclear as to whether the cargo of cedar was recovered but the “Port Denison Times” (July 30 1881) reported that a man had been sent to the wreck to burn it. It is most likely, therefore, that the cedar was recovered. Burning of a wreck was usual practice as this facilitated removal of metal fittings and also removed the hulk to avoid investigation by passing vessels.

Survey charts of Port Molle from HMS “Alert” following her visit two months earlier in May 1881 had shown the wreck still on Pioneer Rock but it seems it must have been shifted in its entirety in one way or another. No doubt the strong currents would have carried it away quite rapidly. Divers who have investigated the area around Pioneer Rock say that there are no recognisable remains.

And so, another vessel was despatched to a watery grave – somewhere!

Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum. Information sourced from Ray Blackwood’s article “Coastline Calling” August 1990.

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Map showing Pioneer Point

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Locally owned and operated, Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine is seeking passionate individuals to join its paid Board of Directors. This is your chance to contribute to a unique "profit-with-a-purpose" model, where local profits directly benefit the community.

"Like our sponsored organisations, our Board is driven by people who are passionate about our community and who value the knowledge, passion and dedication it takes to run the many community organisations," explains Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine Chairman Mark Henry.

The Bendigo Community Bank ‘profit-with-a-purpose’ model is unique and sees a percentage of the profits generated by the Bank branch invested back into the community.

Since its 2012 inception, backed by $800,000 from local shareholders, the branch has supported many Whitsundays community groups and given back over $200,000 to the local community.

"We thank our shareholders and past and present directors for their dedication over the last 12 years and we look forward to being part of the community for many more to come," says Mr Henry.

Board members play a crucial role in strategic planning and community investment.

Are you interested in influencing sponsorship decisions, making a tangible local impact, developing your leadership skills, or simply sharing your expertise?

If so, the Board encourages your nomination.

The bank seeks diverse individuals with skills in strategy, finance, legal, community engagement, and marketing to strengthen its team. This is an opportunity to contribute to a successful, locally owned branch, part of a network of 322 community banks nationwide.

For a confidential conversation about Board member role, responsibilities, and expectations please contact the Chair of the Board, Mark Henry, via email chair@whitsundaycel.com.au by Monday, March 31, 2025.

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Barefoot Medicine is more than just a doctor’s surgery. It is a place where exceptional care meets compassion. At the heart of its success are the dedicated nurse practitioners whose expertise and commitment make every patient feel valued and cared for.

A Nurse Practitioner (NP) is an advanced Registered Nurse with specialised skills, expertise, and the authority to diagnose and treat a wide range of health conditions across all ages. With additional university-level training at the master's degree level, NPs are equipped with the highest level of clinical independence in the healthcare system.

The title "Nurse Practitioner" was officially introduced in 2000 and is exclusively used by those endorsed by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia. Currently, only about 3,000 individuals in Australia hold this prestigious status.

National practice standards ensure that Nurse Practitioners deliver exceptional, patient-centered care while also playing a pivotal role in clinical research, education, leadership, and the advancement of healthcare services.

Nurse Practitioners offer a wide range of services, including the ability to provide patient rebates through Medicare, prescribe medications, access PBS medicines, refer patients to hospitals and specialists, and order diagnostic tests like x-rays. They are an integral part of the healthcare team, collaborating closely with a range of professionals, from GPs to physiotherapists, dietitians, occupational therapists, and more.

At Barefoot Medicine, we're proud to have two exceptional Nurse Practitioners ready to serve the Whitsunday community. While not GPs, they offer comprehensive healthcare services, assessing, diagnosing, and treating patients just like a GP, and are always here to help you with your health needs.

One of Barefoot’s dedicated Nurse Practitioners, Brett Johnson, shared insights into his role.

“While Nurse Practitioners don’t enjoy the same clinical scope of practice of general practitioners, we are able to prescribe most drugs under the PBS, we can order x-rays and ultrasounds and can refer to medical specialists.”

Barefoot’s other Nurse Practitioner, Rachel Jakeman explained how being a nurse practitioner allows them to offer a different approach to what a GP may provide.

"As nurses, we tend to assess people a bit differently, taking a more holistic approach and looking at the full picture. That unique nursing perspective, combined with our skill set, can be a real asset."

“While it is a new role, and people aren’t used to seeing nurse practitioners, individuals don’t always know what we can do or our skillset.

"If there's ever a situation where I feel unsure or believe something is outside of my scope of practice, I would handle it like a GP would. I would refer the patient to the appropriate specialist, for instance, if I thought my GP colleagues could provide insight, I would consult with them. However, if I felt a specialist's expertise was needed, I would make the necessary referral."

With the ongoing shortage of GPs in Australia, Nurse Practitioners are increasingly recognised as an excellent alternative. While they differ from GPs, Nurse Practitioners are highly skilled and fully capable of addressing your medical needs with expertise and care.

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Rachel Jakeman and Brett Johnson, the two Nurse Practitioners at Barefoot Medicine in Cannonvale. Photo credit: R Jean Photography

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Australia is famous for its rich and diverse wildlife, and the Whitsundays are no exception, home to several rare and endangered species.

Hopping into the picture, the Proserpine Rock Wallaby is one of the Whitsundays’ most intriguing native animals, found exclusively in the region’s rainforests and on Hayman Island.

The Proserpine Rock Wallaby is larger than similar species, but it is still an extremely small animal, with the larger of males only growing to 60 centimetres in length and weighing 9 kilograms.

The Proserpine Rock Wallabies live in elevated rocky outcrops found scattered throughout the deciduous rainforest. Experts have found that often the wallabies perfer foothills near open woodland and during dry season they move closer to the forest edge to graze on grass.

The Proserpine Rock Wallaby is a shy, nocturnal creature that quickly retreats into rocky shelters when disturbed. Its light brown or grey fur provides excellent camouflage, making it difficult to spot.

Proserpine rock-wallabies are primary consumers that opportunistically feed on plants. On Hayman Island, they have previously competed for food with feral goats, which have been successfully eradicated.

Sadly, habitat loss, fragmentation, and introduced species like dogs, cats and toxic weeds are all major threats to its survival.

Conservation efforts for the Proserpine Rock Wallaby include restricting development in key habitats and installing road reflectors to reduce collisions. However, feral dogs remain a major threat, as pet ownership persists. Despite ongoing measures, the species' future remains uncertain as the Whitsundays continue to grow and prosper.

If you're fortunate enough to live near Proserpine rock-wallaby habitat, you can support species recovery by replacing toxic plants with native ones in your garden, preventing domestic animals from escaping your yard, staying wildlife-conscious while driving by adhering to speed limits, and protecting populations on private land through Nature Conservation Agreements and Nature Refuges.

Fast Fact: The Proserpine Rock-wallaby is social and lives in groups of around 20 or more.

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Say hello to Sarge, the lovable pup who’s ready to win your heart! Recently rescued after being abandoned with his brother, Sarge is a sweet and well-adjusted boy with a personality that will melt anyone’s heart. He’s an absolute dream of a puppy, with the perfect balance of playfulness and calm.

Sarge is an extremely quick learner, already mastering commands like "sit," "stay," and "drop." His eagerness to please makes him a breeze to train!

While Sarge loves to follow you around, he is also a bit of a lazy boy who enjoys snuggling up on the couch for a cosy nap.

Not only does Sarge listen well, but he doesn’t jump or try to escape. He’s content with his own spot to relax, and he’s even unfazed by his current neighbours’ free-roaming chickens!

Sarge is the ultimate companion — loyal, loving, and always eager to please. If you’re looking for a gentle, affectionate pup to add to your family, Sarge might be the perfect match for you!

Ready to meet this adorable boy? Sarge can’t wait to find his forever home!

Adopt Sarge today and let him bring endless love and joy into your life.

Rehoming fee: $400
Breed: Great Dane X
Sex: Male
Other dogs: Yes
Fences: 6ft

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What better way to celebrate St. Patrick's Day than with a rich, indulgent Irish stout pudding? We've got the ultimate recipe to make your celebration even more delicious!

Ingredients

• 6 ounces unsalted butter
• 3/4 cup Guinness Stout
• 1 Tablespoon molasses
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
• 3 large eggs
• pinch kosher salt
• 6 ounces dark chocolate chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and butter 5-7 ramekins (I used ½ cup ramekins and got 7 pudding cakes; if using larger ramekins, you'll have fewer). Arrange the ramekins on a baking sheet.
2. In a small saucepan, combine butter and molasses. Melt the butter over low heat, stirring until fully melted.
3. Bring the Guinness to a boil over medium heat and simmer until reduced to ⅓ cup, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat.
4. Add the chocolate, sugar, vanilla, and salt to the melted butter, stirring until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
5. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Gradually mix in the chocolate mixture and stir until fully combined. Then, add the reduced Guinness and mix.
6. Divide the batter evenly among the ramekins and place them on the middle rack of the oven.
7. Bake for about 25 minutes, or until the edges begin to crack, while the center remains soft and shiny.
8. Serve warm with whipped cream, ice cream, or caramel sauce.
9. For an extra touch, sprinkle a little fleur de sel on top if desired.

Happy St Patricks Day!

Recipe credit: whatagirleats.com/

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In the tranquil landscapes of the Whitsundays, one photographer is making waves with her vibrant approach to photography. Specialising in family portraits, intimate weddings, and couples’ shoots, her work emphasizes the natural beauty of the Whitsundays, offering clients more than just photographs but memorable moments they can treasure forever.

Lucy's journey into photography began when her time as a model inspired what began as a hobby in 2014, blossoming into a full-fledged career upon her relocation to the Whitsundays. Lucy honed her skills through hands-on experience and mentorship, proving that passion and drive can go a long way.

Her highlights are the importance of client-centred shoots as she aims to provide not just a service but a shared experience. She describes her style as bright and colourful, echoing the landscapes of the Whitsundays, and always works with clients to select locations that reflect their personalities and preferences. Whether it’s a sunset beach shoot or a couple’s surprise proposal, Lucy ensures that every session captures authentic, meaningful moments.

Lucy remains deeply humble and motivated by her passion for photography. Her most rewarding project to date was capturing the majestic beauty of whales in the wild, an experience that cemented her desire to pursue wildlife and underwater photography. In the near future, Lucy hopes to expand her portfolio into these areas.

Lucy encourages everyone to reach out to her through her website: storiesinlight.com.au, or social media platforms for a fun, relaxed photoshoot experience. With an eye for detail and a love for capturing nature’s beauty, Lucy is carving out a distinctive niche in the world of photography, one beautiful shot at a time.

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For Bowen’s newest regional coordinator Jenelle Maher, community has always been at the heart of what she does.Originally from Foxton, a small town in Aotearoa/New Zealand, Jenelle has spent most of her life in Bowen—a place she now proudly calls home.“I never really set out to work in the disability sector,” she said. “But I’ve always been involved in my kids’ sports, and one day I found myself advocating for a young boy with a disability who wanted to join a soccer team.”That experience sparked her journey, leading to her first role as a club coordinator in an environment similar to selectability’s Clubhouse—a group program that encourages social connection and puts members in charge of their wellbeing.Jenelle loves the variety of her role and seeing the impact her team makes.“Every day is different! I love when staff come in feeling proud of their day at work and how they’ve helped someone else,” she said.For those considering a role in the sector, her advice is simple:“Even if you don’t have the skills, if you have a great attitude, a willingness to learn, and can commit to our values, you will have an amazing team and leaders to support you on this journey.”Outside of work, Jenelle enjoys fishing, exploring islands, and camping with her kids. And when she needs motivation, she turns to her personal hype song, Ain’t Nothing Gonna Break My Stride.“No matter the challenge, I remind myself that nothing’s going to break my stride.”To learn more about selectability’s services in Bowen, visit our website.

After 50 years serving the community, Meals on Wheels in Proserpine is urgently calling for more volunteers to help this invaluable local organisation continue operating.

Local Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP attended the venue last week to raise awareness for the issue and hopes more support will be given soon.

“It’s a really important community service that this organisation provides,” she expressed.“But one that if discontinues, puts people at risk who won't get that service. Connecting with people in our community who are at times, isolated.”

Meals on Wheels operating out of Proserpine, has been a long-standing service that delivers nutritious meals and also provides connections to people that might be living on their own.

Run almost exclusively by volunteers, the team prepare, cook and deliver 50-60 meals every day to local people in need.

Despite a lack of volunteer numbers in recent years the team persevere, operating with just a skeleton crew, concerned about how they will continue in the future.

Volunteers estimate there could only be another three months of operation for this vital service if support is not offered soon.

“I've done it on my own. I've been without chefs and I've just come in and done my best because they need this service,” said Helen Maynard Turner, the organiser of Meals on Wheels in Proserpine.

If you would like to volunteer a few hours a week and breathe new life into this vital local service then please reach out directly to Helen. Simply call between 7am-12pm on: 07 4945 1733 or email your interest to volunteer to: prosmow@gmail.com.

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Volunteers Mika Nishiguchi and Leanne Alexander beside Amanda Camm, and Helen Maynard Turner the organiser of Meals on Wheels in Proserpine. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

Proserpine Lions & Lion Ladies are excited to host their very first International Women’s Day celebration 'March Forward', paying tribute to the incredible women who have shaped and developed the Proserpine district. This special event will honor our pioneering women from various sectors such as tourism, education, health, business and more, highlighting their significant contributions to the community.

The day will feature a guest speaker addressing important issues surrounding domestic violence and family violence, providing invaluable insights and raising awareness. Attendees will also hear from a Youth of the Year entrant, learn about the vital services of Meals on Wheels and the local food bank, and enjoy a variety of other engaging activities.

For $25, participants of the Marching Forward event will enjoy a cent sale, lucky door prize, and fun games for all, along with a delicious high tea. With tissues on the tables to help attendees through the emotional moments, this event promises to be a blend of heartfelt recognition and fun-filled celebration.

The Proserpine Lions & Lion Ladies invite all women to join them for a day of reflection, connection and laughter, with all proceeds going to the Proserpine Meals on Wheels. Call Lyn on: 04 0769 2928 to reserve your spot!

WHAT: Proserpine Lions & Lion Ladies March Forward
WHEN: Saturday, 8th March 1pm-5pm
WHERE: Proserpine R.S.L. 27 Chapman St.

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Last Wednesday, Cannonvale State School proudly held its annual Student Leader Induction Ceremony, a momentous event celebrating the leadership potential and dedication of its students.

The special occasion united staff, students, families, and community members as they gathered to support and congratulate the newly appointed student leaders stepping into their important roles for the year ahead.

During the ceremony, school captains, vice-captains, sports house captains, events managers, ambassadors, band captains, and student council representatives were officially inducted, receiving their leadership badges as a symbol of their dedication and responsibility to the Cannonvale State School community.

Each leader was recognised for their commitment to serving, inspiring, and upholding the school's values. The atmosphere was filled with pride and excitement as students took their leadership pledge, vowing to lead with integrity, kindness, and a dedication to making a positive impact on their peers and school environment.

Principal, Mr Nicholas Shirley said they were honoured to have special guests in attendance, Belinda Greenwood who represented our Member of Parliament Mrs Amanda Camm, the Principal of Proserpine High School, Mr Don McDermid, Ms Libby Edge from Eco Barge CleanSeas and the President of the Cannonvale State School Parents’ and Citizens Association, Ms Sabrina Mitchell.

The 2025 School Leaders are:

School Captains: Mia Berry & Jagger Sassall

School Vice Captains: Ruby Luka & Harvey Fitzpatrick

Indigenous School Leader: Tiffany Bloomer

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Rising Whitsundays motorsport star Jure Portelli is excited to announce her participation in the prestigious Kyojo Cup Vita-01 Championship. This exciting move marks a significant step in Jure's burgeoning career, offering a new platform to showcase her talent and compete against some of the best female drivers in the world.

Jure is 15-years-old and has competed various racing events including karting, endurance racing, sprint racing, hillclimb, and rally events. In 2023, she was selected for the FIA Girls on Track - Rising Stars program and trained with the Ferrari Driver Academy. Her natural talent and determination quickly shone through, leading to numerous podium finishes and a diverse racing portfolio that spans endurance, sprint, and rally disciplines.

The Kyojo Cup, founded in 2017, is a pioneering all-female racing series based in Japan. It provides a unique opportunity for women from diverse motorsport backgrounds to compete on a level playing field. The Vita-01 Championship is a mixed race series attracting a range of talented male and female drivers, including those transitioning from karting, formula racing, and rally, and boasts a growing international profile.

The Kyojo Cup VITA-01 Championship provides a stepping stone for drivers aspiring to reach higher levels of motorsport, such as Super GT and international championships. Jure's participation in the series is a testament to her dedication and ambition, and she is poised to make a significant impact on the championship.

"I'm incredibly excited to join the Kyojo Cup Vita-01 Championship," said Jure.

"It's a fantastic opportunity to compete against a talented field of women and further develop my skills in a new environment. The Kyojo Cup’s commitment to promoting female motorsport and diverse racing backgrounds aligns with my own values, and I'm proud to be a part of it."

Follow Jure’s racing career or get involved via Instagram or Facebook @jureportelliracing

The Kyojo Women’s Championship Rounds dates are:
Round one: 13-15th March
Round two: 8-10th May
Round three: 14-16th Aug
Round 4: 19-20 Dec

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Jure Portelli is excited for the Kyojo Cup Vita-01 Championship. Photo sourced: Facebook

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The Director-General for the Department of Trade, Employment and Training, Peter McKay, recently visited PCYC Whitsunday to showcase the impact of the Get Set for Work program conducted PCYC Whitsunday.

The visit served as a valuable opportunity to showcase the program's success and the meaningful impact it has on young people in the community.

During his time at PCYC Whitsunday, Mr. McKay met with both current and former program participants, hearing firsthand how the initiative has helped them develop new skills, build confidence, and pursue employment or further education. The program is part of the Queensland Government’s Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative, which provides training and employment pathways for those facing barriers to workforce participation.

PCYC Whitsunday’s Get Set for Work program plays a vital role in empowering local youth by offering hands-on learning, industry exposure, and practical experience. Through partnerships with local businesses, participants gain valuable real-world insights and workplace readiness.

Program Coordinator Scott Lynch shared the success story of Xannon Smoothy, a former participant who secured an apprenticeship with the construction company through the Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative.

“By pure chance, on the day of the Director General’s visit, Xannon was back at the club as a second-year apprentice, working on a renovation to the building. It was the perfect opportunity to introduce Peter to one of the program's most remarkable success stories,” he said.

Youth Club Program Manager Sergeant Billy Li praised his team’s commitment to supporting young people.

"Programs like Get Set for Work are essential in helping young people unlock their potential and build a brighter future,” he said.

“It’s inspiring to see the positive impact this initiative is having on the local community."

The visit underscored the importance of collaborative efforts between government agencies, community organisations, and local businesses in fostering opportunities for young people. PCYC Whitsunday remains dedicated to continuing its work in equipping youth with the skills, confidence, and opportunities they need to succeed.

Get Set for Work is one of eight programs that make up the Queensland Government’s Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative.
For more information about the Get Set for Work program and how to get involved, visit PCYC Whitsunday or contact the team on 07 49481144.

Contributed with thanks to Get Set to Work Program Coordinator Scott Lynch

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Join us for the Greater Whitsunday’s Vet Services Official Open Day, an exciting event filled with entertainment, great prizes, and family-friendly activities. The day promises something fun for everyone, with over $1000 worth of lucky door prizes and giveaways up for grabs!

There will be so many stalls set up offering a wide variety of products you’ll find something to take home. The stalls including timber markets, jewellery, pet accessories, baby essentials, chutney, and even equine supplements. For the naturalists, there will be a great selection of plants ready to take root with you, as well as beautiful handmade earrings and natural body products. Artists will be showcasing their work, and there will be plenty of fun for both kids and adult animal lovers alike with cows, alpacas, and dogs to meet and interact with.

You can also check out Ryans Hawaiians for a touch of tropical flair and then visit the talented face painter for a fabulous new look. For those looking for excellent food the open day has only the best BBQ around!

A delicious BBQ lunch will be available, as well as scrumptious slices and cakes or those with a sweet tooth. All proceeds from the lunch go to the MND and ME Foundation, a cause supported by the Plemenuk family. Also, don’t forget to cool down with a treat from Rilo’s Ice Cream Van, offering a range of refreshing ice creams and iced coffees.

This fun-filled day open day is not to be missed, so bring the whole family and come along to support a wonderful community event while enjoying a variety of activities and local products. You could even win one of the amazing giveaways!

WHAT: Greater Whitsunday’s Vet Services Proserpine Open Day
WHEN: Sunday, 9th March 10am-2pm
WHERE: 52 Main St Proserpine, Entrance via Dobbins Lane

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Get Along with Georgia!Greater Whitsunday Vet Services Operational Manager, Georgia Bowser, is a Proserpine local, born and raised on the farm. Georgia rotates between the Proserpine and Bowen clinics throughout the week ensuring that the staff and productivity of the business is on track.

Georgia has over 8 Years experience as a Veterinary Nurse and brings a wealth of practical knowledge to the clinic. She enjoys coaching and training staff whilst allowing innovative ideas from the team for further development. Georgia loves to help her team thrive to ensure that we are providing a service like no other.

Greater Whitsunday Vet Services continues to provide Georgia with career opportunities and personal development to ensure she stays up to date with what our clients need and want in 2025. They have also provided her with a work-life balance stability helping her in personal achievements like recently purchasing her own property.

The knowledge and expertise she has gained from her career is assisting her and husband Jack to smoothly operate their farm. Equipping them with better ideas for animal health, profitability, and innovation so that they have their property long into the future.

Georgia said “Working for Greater Whitsunday Vet Services has been and continues to be, an amazing workplace. It is full of innovation and our team prides themselves on providing a client experiences like no other.” Customer service and clarity have unfortunately disappeared in some businesses, and this is something Georgia strongly focuses on with the team. they aim to bring back the old standard and making it so much better, ensuring a strong rapport across the team and clients.

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Georgia leading our last big event Photo supplied: Glenys Mansfield

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For years, the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre has been keen to add one key essential service, and in May this is due to finally come to fruition. Orange Sky Laundry Pod will open, providing much-needed laundry services to the region’s most vulnerable.

This service is the result of dedicated advocacy by the Centre, which had long been pushing for help. After discussions with the previous state government and Megan Scanlan, the Minister for Housing, the need for services like what Orange Sky can provide became clear. Once contacted, Orange Sky identified the Whitsunday as one of four locations in need, and now the area will finally have access to their vital services.

The Orange Sky laundry Pod is still in the planning stage with the centre making sure that the plumbing and structure that will house the laundry pod is secure. Making it cyclone and monsoon-proof, and that the structure is designed with sustainability in mind, this includes rainwater tanks to capture and provide the water.

Operating from 9:30am to 11:30am, the pod will offer free laundry services to those who can’t afford laundromats, providing an essential lifeline. Unfortunately, the inclusion of shower facilities is still uncertain. The Centre is in talks with Orange Sky and the government about adding showers in the future, as new neighbourhood centres and other similar communal facilities are built with these facilities in mind.

The importance of this service cannot be overstated. Orange Sky already operates across countless cities and regional towns, and now, Airlie Beach will join that network. Their services help bridge the gap in hygiene access for vulnerable groups, promoting health, wellbeing, and a sense of belonging.

The Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre’s advocacy and partnership with Orange Sky represent a crucial step toward addressing the unmet needs of the homeless population. This laundry pod is a much-needed response, offering not just clean clothes, but dignity and connection for those who have long been overlooked.

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What the laundry pod could look like at the centre. Photo Sourced: Orange Sky’s Website

Orange Sky volunteers operating a laundry pod. Photo Sourced: Orange Sky’s Website

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Exciting news for Bowen as Flagstaff Hill's iconic café is reopening. Bringing modern Australian-Italian cuisine to one of the most breathtaking locations in the Whitsundays. After being damaged by a cyclone and undergoing a rebuild two years ago, the café is about ready to welcome guests once again.

Set to open just before the Easter school holidays, this new eatery will offer panoramic views of the Coral Sea, with floor-to-ceiling windows ensuring the beauty of the Whitsundays is never out of sight. Whether it's a sunny day or a dramatic sky, the café's stunning ocean views promise an unforgettable experience for visitors.

The new café will feature a fabulous fusion menu. Guests can look forward to homemade italian pizzas and a variety of light breakfast and lunch options served daily. For those looking for a more relaxed dining experience, the café will also offer dinner on Fridays and Saturdays evenings.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said it was very exciting to have the café at Flagstaff Hill re-opening saying “It is such a beautiful location with stunning views.” and “We are looking forward to sending our guests at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre back to this great venue and we wish the new operators all the very best.”

The space includes both indoor and outdoor seating and a conference space for special social events like weddings or corporate gatherings. With its combination of delicious food, incredible views, and versatile venue, 360 on the Hill is set to become one of the must-visit spot for Bowen locals and tourists alike.

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The sleek, modern cafe atop Flagstaff Hill. Photo Sourced: Whitsunday Regional Council Website

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Down at Port of Airlie is the delightful Zorro’s Cafe & Bar. Just a short walk from Airlie Beach,this local gem has a great menu and ambience attractive to locals and tourists with its picturesque views over the water.

Owned and run by Perri and Terry, and named after their friendly little dog, Zorro’s is a place that everyone can sit down and enjoy. They have a changing seasonal menu, guaranteeing that all their delicious meal options are fresh and locally sourced. Catering to any and all dietary requirements, Zorro’s offers options for breakfast, lunch, tapas and they soon plan to extend times to dinner around Easter!

From grilled coral trout, stacked burgers, and delightfully fresh orange and avocado salads, there’s a heart-warming option for you. Any cafe can do eggs for breakfast, but have you tried Perri’s own breakfast savoury mince? Made with love and topped with a blob of sour cream its absolutely scrumptious, it's a great way to start your day full of flavour and energy.

What if you're looking to slow down and enjoy the bobbing boats on the water? Zorro’s has a happy hour where you can enjoy a fully stocked and licenced bar and try their amazing Cocktail of the Week. Zorro’s is a cosy place with a dedicated team providing great food and drinks at very reasonable prices.

So, you can enjoy some finger-food and a beer while watching the sunset or sip great coffee after your morning run at Zorros Cafe & Bar with air-conditioned indoor and breezy outdoor seating available. There’s also plentiful free 2hr parking under the Boathouse Apartments so you can wind down and take you meal slow. Stop by today and give little Zorro a pat, he along with Perri, Terry and their team, welcome you all to come and enjoy their delightful cafe and bar.

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Perri, siting out by the amazing view from Zorro’s Café & Bar. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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This week, we have experienced a variety of activations, ranging from the solemn task of transporting a deceased individual, an essential, albeit sad service—to the urgent evacuation of a very sick child during extremely poor weather conditions.

One of the notable calls was a small fishing boat that broke down in 36-knot winds at night, requiring a tow to safety. At the same time, VMR1 was already engaged in an urgent Medevac operation. A second crew was called in to deploy VMR2, our 7m semirigid vessel. While I’ve been out in similar conditions with 40-knot winds during daylight, nighttime presented its own challenges. Without the ability to see the waves coming, we were hit by them unexpectedly, forcing us to slow our progress to a crawl.

Meanwhile, Canberra reported an EPIRB activation near Border Island and sent up their ultra-high-tech search jet. They put us on standby, but despite their efforts, no vessel was found at the reported location, and we were eventually stood down. It's puzzling how such incidents can occur.

On a positive note, we have been able to upgrade our radio base coverage, thanks to the support of Marine Safety Queensland. Their powerful MSQ repeaters combined with our state-of-the-art Omnicore operating system greatly enhance our range, coverage, and clarity, improving safety for the boating community.

Remember, the emergency channel 16 is reserved for essential use only. If you would like to volunteer as a radio operator or crew member, please visit vmrwhitsundays.com.au/volunteerto sign up.

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Contributed with thanks by Shane Newell, President of VMR Whitsundays.

The VMR vessel off to the rescue. Photo Sourced: VMR Whitsundays Facebook Page

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Café Operator, Robbie Miles, has brought fresh energy and a new vision to the Clubhouse Cafe at Whitsunday Green Golf Course, transforming it from just a post-game pit stop to a versatile venue that welcomes everyone, not just golfers. Since taking over in October, Robbie, a chef with a rich background from both the UK and Australia, has been dedicated to making the cafe the go-to hub for both the local community and visitors.

Operating daily from 8am to 6 pm, with a liquor license until midnight, the cafe is perfect for corporate events, birthday parties, or any occasion that could use a little extra sparkle. Whether you're enjoying a glass of bubbly while golfing or sipping on a cold beer during a stag-do. Robbie's diverse menu caters to all tastes, with grab-and-go options and a delicious hot menu, plus enticing deals like two-for-one pizzas.

The Clubhouse Cafe can accommodate up to 60 people, and members enjoy a 10% discount on food and beverages. And it’s not just about great food, Robbie’s commitment to inclusivity is reflected in his catering for various dietary needs and menu preferences. He plans to create a sense of community, with ample outdoor seating and a members' lounge next door being open to all, the Clubhouse Cafe has become much more than just a place to eat. It’s a place to gather, celebrate, and enjoy the stunning views over the golf course, come down and say hello to Robbie at the Clubhouse today

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Robbie Miles behind the counter at the Clubhouse Cafe. Photo Credit: Victoria Velton
The comfortable seating and versatile space of the cafe's members lounge. Photo Credit: Victoria Velton
Huge range of outdoor seating options too, with low and high tables available. Photo Credit: Victoria Velton

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The Whitsunday region marked a historic moment with the official opening of Club Whitsunday in the Whitsunday Sports Park precinct at Airlie Beach. The Honourable Mr. Andrew Willcox MP, Federal Member for Dawson, had the distinct pleasure of cutting the ribbon on this groundbreaking development, which promises to be a cornerstone for both the region’s sporting culture and community spirit.

Club Whitsunday, now fully operational and trading for lunch and dinner seven days a week, offers a range of gaming and wagering options, fulfilling its promise as a vital community hub. With significant local support and an extensive network of partners, this facility stands as a testament to the hard work and dedication of all involved.

“It’s been a long time coming,” said Ry Collins, Mayor of the Whitsundays saying “This highlights what can be achieved when community vision and ambition along with three levels of government all working together can deliver a common goal for the community.”

The opening event, filled with family-friendly activities like face painting and a train ride for the kids, was a celebration of what has been a long journey. Local sports teams, community members, suppliers, construction partners, lenders, and government representatives all gathered to mark this significant occasion for the Whitsunday region and its sporting community.

Clay Bauman, Councillor for the Whitsunday Regional Council, spoke about the collaborative approach that helped bring the project to fruition. “I think it's terrific for all the sports clubs in the regions. We have worked with them for so long and now it's a license bar with pokies, with so many features separate it from other clubs.”

For Justin Butler, Chairman of Club Whitsunday, the opening was a deeply personal moment saying "I want to thank all the sports clubs that call the Sports Park home, including AFL, Touch Footy, Soccer, Netball, and the new code of Cricket," he said. "It’s been a long road, but we’re finally here. My family has been with me through this journey, and now we can look forward to more time together.” Justin said that “This Club should be a hub for building community spirit and sports for decades to come in the shire.”

Federal MP Andrew Willcox echoed the sentiment, acknowledging the commitment of local leaders in turning the vision into reality. "I’m pleased to do the official duties, opening club Whitsunday here today, it’s a project I've been involved in since beginning, going back to my mayoral days. I’m really pleased with Justin Butler, who's put blood, sweat and tears into this.” He said, “It’s a fantastic facility and it opens up being able to host touring games form all the different areas with the biggest advantage that it’s for the locals, and the profits of this club will go back into the local community.”

Club Whitsunday General Manager, Josh Prowse, expressed his gratitude for the local support saying “The Club’s trading now, with more events and functions booking here each day.” He wanted everyone to know that “every dollar spent, the more we get to put back into supporting the local clubs.”

Finally, Amanda Camm, MP Member of the Queensland Parliament, praised the tenacity of those who made the project a reality saying, “I think the tenacity, particularly of Justin, and those on his committee, from the initial concept now to what we're seeing, it needs to be commended. They never gave up.” She also said, “the facility inside and outside out is a quality finish and they should be congratulated.”

With the doors officially open, Club Whitsunday is poised to become a central gathering place, not only for sport but for the broader community. The journey may have been long, but the outcome is a facility that will benefit generations of sports enjoyers and club-goers to come.

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Did you know?

If you have a pool or a spa on your property, it must be registered with the QBCC. As well as having a compliant fence, pools must also have visible and weatherproof CPR signage.

To ensure the safety of yourself and others using your pool or spa, regularly inspect its fence or barrier for rust, loose hinges, or broken panels, and arrange repairs as needed. Make sure no climbable objects like furniture or toys are near the fence.

Taking these few small steps can make a big difference in preventing accidents and can ensure a safe summer swimming season for all.

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Eve O Schaub, in her book ‘Year of No Garbage: Recycling Lies, Plastic Problems, and One Woman’s Trashy Journey to Zero Waste,’ set out to find out whether a person could really live without garbage and gave garbage up for a year to live the recycling dream.  She discovered very quickly that:
   • Recycling can feel like a full-time job, as finding where and how to recycle products often leads to dead ends. Most people don’t have the time for this complexity, nor should it be so difficult.
   • Avoiding plastic in food purchases severely limits options and raises concerns about malnutrition, with considerable effort required to find alternatives.
   • "Greenwashing" is rampant, where eco-friendly claims often mislead consumers about what can truly be recycled or composted.
   • Ocean garbage patches now cover 40% of the ocean's surface—larger than all the land on Earth combined.
   • Studies show we ingest a credit card’s worth of plastic each week, which is linked to health issues like endocrine disruption, neurodegenerative disorders, cardiovascular disease, and cancer.
As a mother, I've read my children numerous books about making healthy choices for our environment. One common suggestion is to recycle, which could be effective if all plastic products were recyclable.
The book explains that most plastics can't currently be recycled, which is why, despite recycling efforts, tons of plastic still end up on our shores each year. It emphasises that individual actions alone won't solve the issue and that top-down systems, like legislative changes holding companies accountable, are necessary to create realistic recycling options.
Walking along Whitsunday Island beaches filled with plastic has been confronting as a parent. The recycling solutions presented in children's books seem like fairytales, offering a circular system that doesn't yet exist efficiently.
Avoiding plastics entirely, especially with young children, feels like an insurmountable challenge in today's society.
While individual efforts matter, the book shows that without accessible recycling systems, large-scale change is unlikely. It highlights the need for legislative action, similar to how lead was phased out through regulation. Given the harm caused by plastic, similar changes are crucial to tackling the crisis.
The book is highly recommended, and a copy can be found at the Whitsunday Regional Library, Cannonvale, QLD. Here's a taste from pg 163.
Some Terrible Truths About Plastics From The Book:
   1. Plastic is not really recyclable
   2. “Single-stream” recycling is a lie.
   3. “Compostable” plastics are pretty much a total lie (with one notable exception)
   4. Forget one giant ocean garbage patch; there are five.
   5. Plastics are in our water, air, and food.  Also, our bloodstream, bodily waste, and the placenta of newborn babies.
Got it? The plastic problem is overwhelming—invading our bodies, harming the environment, and we’re surrounded by lies about recycling. Let’s break it down.
...break it down this book does.  While the issue is daunting, the real challenge is failing to make necessary changes. Shifting the public’s view of the recycling "fairytale" could be key to a better future.
Though sombre at times, the book is witty and hopeful.
Book Review by Amy Youngsmith.

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Free customer service workshops will be held in Bowen and Airlie Beach in March for business owners, staff, and volunteers. Everyone involved in welcoming guests to our region will benefit from the ‘Whitsundays Welcomes You’ program – an opportunity to enhance guest experiences and showcase the unique charm of our region.
This initiative is part of a statewide program designed to empower the industry to share their pride and passion for the Whitsundays while providing a warm, inclusive, and welcoming experience for visitors. Kathleen Maher, a former Whitsundays resident, is the Statewide Project Manager for the Queensland Welcomes You Program. She was instrumental in developing the program and managing its statewide rollout.
Earlier this year, Kathleen attended the Queensland Information Centre’s (QICA) conference in Kingaroy, where she explained the program to delegates. While at the conference, she also met with Leanne Abernethy, Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, and Glenn Womal, Visitor Services Coordinator.
The program is free, and the workshops in Bowen and Airlie Beach will be specifically tailored to our region. Leanne encourages local business owners and staff to attend one of the workshops. Sessions will cover topics including hosting visitors, storytelling, accessibility and inclusion, sustainability, and showcasing local experiences.
Tourism Minister Andrew Powell, stated that the workshops will equip everyone in guest services to become passionate hosts, delivering exceptional and inclusive experiences. Workshop is FREE to attend but registration is essential with limited spaces available. Secure your spot today! Register now at: www.qld.gov.au/qldwelcomesyou or email: kmaher@brisbane-eda.com.au
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WHAT: Whitsunday Welcomes You Program Workshop
WHEN: Wednesday 12 March
WHERE: Mantra Club Croc, Airlie Beach 9.30am-11.30am OR Grand View Hotel, Bowen 2pm-4pm

Project manager for the “Queensland Welcomes You” program, Katheleen Maher (centre) with Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business Leanne Abernethy and Visitor Services Co-ordinator Glenn Womal. Photo Supplied: Leanne Abernethy

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Locals have been eagerly awaiting the historic launch of Eris TestFlight 1, the first Australian-designed and built rocket aiming for orbit. Now, the wait is finally over with the No Earlier Than (NET) launch date confirmed for the 15th of March, marking the maiden flight of Eris.
This milestone follows final airspace approvals, marking years of research, development, and manufacturing. The company, which also built Bowen Orbital Spaceport, received Australia’s first orbital launch facility license and launch permit.
CEO Adam Gilmour emphasises that launch delays are normal, early attempts are challenging, and building sovereign space capability is crucial.
Backed by private investors, Gilmour Space aims to position Australia among leading spacefaring nations. Regardless of the outcome, the launch signifies a historic step for Australia's space industry.

NET Launch Date announced for Eris TestFlight 1.

Bowen Is Shooting For The Stars!

The countdown has begun. Gilmour Space Technologies has announced a launch window opening no earlier than the 15th of March for the maiden flight of Eris which is the first Australian-designed and built rocket aiming for orbit.
This milestone follows the final airspace approvals from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) and Airservices Australia, clearing the last regulatory hurdle before launch.
It also represents the culmination of years of pioneering research, development, and manufacturing by the Gold Coast-based company, which has designed and built both the Eris launch vehicle and the Bowen Orbital Spaceport in North Queensland.
Gilmour Space made history last March when its Bowen Spaceport became the first in Australia to receive an orbital launch facility licence. The company further cemented its status as a national leader in space exploration by securing the country’s first Australian Launch Permit for the Eris TestFlight 1 in November.
Now, with airspace arrangements finalised and the required notice given to the Australian Space Agency, Gilmour Space is gearing up for liftoff.
"This will be the first attempt of an Australian rocket to reach orbit from Australian soil," said Adam Gilmour, co-founder and CEO of Gilmour Space.
With the March 15 window fast approaching, Mr. Gilmour shared some key points to note before launch:
Firstly, it's important to understand that delays or 'scrubs' are a normal part of rocket launches. These can last anywhere from hours, to days, or even weeks, and are often caused by weather conditions, technical issues, or other factors. "Safety is always the top priority. We'll only launch when we're ready, and when conditions are appropriate," he said.
Secondly, the first launch is always the hardest. Reaching orbit is a highly complex engineering challenge, and every successful rocket company has faced setbacks in their early attempts—SpaceX, for one, did it on their fourth attempt.
"It's almost unheard of for a private rocket company to launch successfully to orbit the first time. Whether we make it off the pad, reach max Q, or get all the way to space, what's important is that every second of the flight will deliver valuable data that will improve our rocket's reliability and performance for future launches."
Thirdly, this is the road we must take to build sovereign space capability that's critical for Australia's future. Launching Australian-owned and controlled rockets from home soil means more high-tech jobs, greater security, economic growth, and technological independence. "Only six countries in the world are launching regularly to space using their own technology, and Australia could soon be one of them."
Finally, he said: "I want to thank our incredible team at Gilmour Space for all their hard work and dedication in getting to this critical first flight. Whatever happens next, know that you've already made history—we now build rockets in Australia. And this is only the beginning."
Get ready for liftoff Bowen!

Eris TestFlight 1 preparing for liftoff!
Eris Testflight 1 is the first Australian-designed and built rocket aiming for orbit.

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The Proserpine Entertainment Centre hosted the second Australian Citizenship Ceremony of the year this week on the 25th of February. From individuals to large family groups from 18 different countries, 38 people took the pledge and chose to become Australian Citizens here in the beautiful Whitsundays. Mayor Ry Collins, Councillor Jan Clifford, Uncle Leo Gabey, and Whitsunday Regional Council’s Director of Services and Facilitation Julie Wright presided over the ceremony.
“For myself and for council, this is probably one of the better parts of what we do, really recognising the contribution of people that come from outside of our country and have chosen to settle here and now become an Australian citizen,” said Mayor Ry Collin.
Mr Collins stated that to hold another ceremony just speaks to the greatness of the region, and the how all the new citizens choosing to settle here will be a great contribution to the region.
Uncle Leo welcomed all the new citizens and recognised the traditional owners of the land, the Gia and Ngaro people, saying it was an honour and a pleasure to attend the ceremony and perform the Welcome to Country.
“It was great, a great atmosphere, and it always is when I come here to do these citizenship ceremonies. I'm always happy that I get to do a Welcome to Country, it was just excellent” said Uncle Leo.
The joyful sentiments of the ceremony were felt all around by all who attended from the youngest pledgers to the eldest. Councillor Jan Clifford reflected on this saying; “I'm just delighted to be here today to welcome our new citizens. It's one of the most wonderful things that I get to do as a councillor, and I wouldn't miss it for the world.”

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Mayor Ry Collins congratulating the youngest new Australian Citizen. Photo Credit: Victoria Velton.
New families settling in the Whitsundays is great for the region. Photo Credit: Victoria Velton

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Hello Everyone,

I am writing this Editor’s Note on my 43rd birthday from a hotel room in the Burdekin where I have just attended an Industry Breakfast and will shortly be meeting up with the local Mayor and CEO of Council.

It’s always nice coming up to the Burdekin, the people here are fantastic, but I always look forward to the drive south, returning to the turquoise waters and my cosy little beachside life. Especially today, where I have family waiting to see me.

As I reflect on the year that was and the year that is to be, the milestones, the moments – the ‘taking stock of life’ that inevitably happens once a year on my birthday –  I simply feel incredibly lucky and incredibly grateful to be here another year, surrounded by loved ones and doing a job I love.

They say that passion leads to great things and that is certainly true for the family team behind Gilmour Space Technologies, whose impending rocket ship launch features on our front page this week.

At the office, we have been earnestly following news of the launch with our journalist Ruth determined to get an invite to the event.

It is undoubtedly one of the biggest events ever to happen in our region and one that will attract international attention – many eyes will be on the Whitsundays and that is exciting not just for the aeronautical industry, but also local tourism and overall economic growth.

This is a wonderful coup for our region and it is certainly drumming up some excitement and conversations – stay tuned to our Facebook page where we are publishing any updates and announcements as soon as they are released.

Wishing all our dear readers the most wonderful week,

Rach

Quote of the Week: “In the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years” Abraham Lincoln

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Dr. Alice Harriott is no ordinary dentist; she is also a ‘Dancing CEO’, raising money and awareness for Women’s Legal Service Queensland (WLSQ), in an effort to break the cycle of domestic violence across our state. Combining her roles as a dentist, fundraiser and now dancer Dr. Harriott has created two special raffle prizes, designed to change lives. For just $25 a ticket, participants can win either a dental care package worth $9,000.
The prizes offer a full orthodontic diagnosis, braces, or aligners, ensuring a perfect smile for the winners, and in a generous twist, the prizes are transferable, meaning if the winner doesn't need orthodontic work, they can pass it on to a family member or friend.
“Maybe you don’t need the work yourself but you might have a child who does, or even a good friend,” Dr Harriott said.
“Whoever you pick to receive this treatment, the end result will be the same – beautiful smiles for everyone involved, including the women and children that WLSQ will be able to help as a result of receiving your raffle ticket price.”
All proceeds from the raffle will go directly to WLSQ, helping break the cycle of domestic violence. The winners will be announced on March 30th at the Epic Walk for DV in Coral Sea Marina Gardens, so get your raffle tickets by scanning the QR code, or by following the links on the ‘Team Whitsundays Dancing CEOs’ Facebook posts.

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https://pulse.ly/x3yk2qwyzp
1800 WLS WLS (1800 957 957) the state-wide helpline for legal advice, and 1800 457 117 for the Rural, Regional and Remote Legal Advice Line. DV Connect: 1800 811 811, and 1800 RESPECT: 1800 737 732
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Dr. Alice Harriott at her dental clinic. Photo Supplied: Sharon Smallwood

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Cunard’s latest addition to its cruising fleet, Queen Anne, is due to anchor offshore at Airlie Beach next Wednesday 5 March.
 
Launched in May 2024, the magnificent modern ship completed sea trials and shorter journeys before embarking on her inaugural world cruise on 9 January 2025 from Southampton carrying just over 2,600 passengers.
 
Onboard from Southampton to Sydney were Whitsunday locals Dr Julia and Richard Evans presenting their creative writing program.
 
“We had the absolute privilege of meeting many international guests and gaining new friends,” Julia said. “Many cruise extensively and they attest that Cunard Queen Anne is a five star experience.”
 
“As Whitsunday locals we were sought out to share with guests what to do to maximise their day in our wonderful region,” said Julia, who also coordinates operations for the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce.
 
While onboard, Julia and Richard Evans presented their creative writing program with over 1,700 guests attending the 16 interactive workshops.
 
“Our sessions attracted enthusiastic writers with amazing stories to share,” said Richard. “Many have kicked-started creative projects onboard and we look forward to continuing to support their writing journey online.”
 
Queen Anne’s inaugural world cruise has already visited New York after a challenging North Atlantic crossing, Miami, Columbia, the engineering wonder of the Panama Canal, Guatemala, Mexico, San Francisco, Hawaii, Samoa, Tonga, New Zealand before arriving in Sydney.
 
Queen Anne, captained by Inger Klein Thorhauge, Cunard’s first female captain will continue its world cruise for another 107 days heading north to Hong Kong then south to South Africa visiting many countries before rounding the cape and cruising back to Southampton stopping off at various locations.

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Dr Julia and Richard Evans with Cunard’s first female captain Inger Klein Thorhauge. Photo supplied

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A group of young local boaties were rescued by the incredible volunteers at VMR Whitsundays last week, the mission showcasing the wonderful work of this valued service in ensuring ocean farers of all ages are kept safe in our waters.
“With the return of typically sunny, Whitsunday weather, boats are back in the water, and rescues are once again on the rise,” explained Shane Newell, VMRW President.
“One of our good news stories this past week was the rescue of a group of children who somehow became stranded on an island near Hamilton.
“Having ventured out from Shute Harbour in their family's small tender, their little outboard motor inevitably broke down.
“Stranded on the distant island, they showed great initiative and called 000 as the wind picked up. The police then activated VMR1 to locate and tow them safely home. I’m sure they had some explaining to do!”
VMR Whitsundays is operated by an entirely local team of volunteers and unlike many other operations in Queensland, our local squadron is unlikely to be taken over by the government-owned Marine Rescue Queensland until later this year.
“Until then, we’ll still need to charge $360 per hour to cover fuel and maintenance costs,” said Shane Newell, VMRW President.
“VMRW is crewed and administered entirely by volunteers, so there are no labour costs included in this fee. A tow from Whitehaven is likely to take at least four hours, which would cost around $1500, unless you’re a member onboard.”
At just $60 for an annual membership, it is certainly worth the investment, entitling you to one free tow (up to four hours) per year and that’s the cheapest insurance around!
Once the government takes over all VMR and Coast Guard operations, rescues will be free, with all costs covered by taxpayers.
“However, the crews will still be entirely volunteer-run and even now as the second busiest squadron in the state, we have a very small hinterland from which to attract volunteers, we are desperately short of crew.”
“This crew shortage has reached the point where some nights we may not be able to respond to a mayday call, which could result in a tragic or horrific outcome.
If you would like to help us out and gain some valuable free training, please visit: vmrwhitsundays.com.au/volunteer/.

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The three youngsters in their broken-down tender alongside the VMR1.

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The Whitsunday Cruisin’ Car Club (WCCC) celebrated a stellar start to 2025 with their Car Run, Annual General Meeting (AGM), and Club Meeting on Sunday, February 16th. The event, which saw 19 beautiful classic & vintage cars take part, was a massive success and attracted a strong turnout of local enthusiasts, including guests from the Old Iron Restorers Club.
The cars began their journey from Cannonvale, cruising along picturesque routes before arriving at Shute Harbour Marina Terminal. There, the participants parked along the waterfront so their vehicles could enjoy stunning ocean views, a perfect backdrop to the event.
The AGM was held in the comfort of the Marina Terminal's air-conditioned facilities, with thanks extended to Adrian and his team for providing the venue. The meeting also brought together several new faces, all sharing a passion for motoring.
A special acknowledgment was given to outgoing committee members and the Show & Shine Committee for their dedication to making the 2024 Show & Shine the most successful yet. The club also proudly announced that over $5,000 was raised from the 2024 event and donated to local community causes, including Whitsunday Suicide Prevention and Jure Portelli Racing.
The WCCC also welcomed their new committee for 2025:

President: Sebastian Foti
Vice Presidents: Michael Hurren & Paul Rehbein
Treasurer: Lindsay Creighton
Secretary: Kerri Southee
Run Organiser: Paul Rehbein
Social/Website Media: Nigel Southee

‍Looking ahead, the club is set for another exciting year. Members are encouraged to join in future runs and events, with everyone from vintage models to modern car lovers, shiny or beaten up, all are invited to join the fun. Families and children are always welcome, so for more details on upcoming events, be sure to follow the Whitsunday Cruisin' Car Club’s Facebook page!

Photos and story contributed with thanks by Kerri Southee, WCCC Committee.
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The cars enjoying the waterfront at the Shute Harbour Marina.

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The Whitsunday Thrift Club is excited to announce the return of its popular preloved and vintage clothing market for 2025, with a brand-new initiative designed to promote sustainability and foster community spirit.
The “Give One, Take One” table invites both stallholders and shoppers to take part in a fun, interactive way to swap or donate up to three items of quality preloved clothing for FREE!
“We are really excited to introduce this new addition to our markets,” said market coordinators Kaitlin and Caitlin. “The idea is simple, for every item of clothing you give, you can take the same number of items; it’s going to be great fun, and anything left over we will be donating to the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre. This long-standing local charity is committed to supporting the Whitsunday community directly and the Whitsunday Thrift Club is proud to contribute to this crucial effort.”
Clothing will be organised by size rather than style, making it easier for everyone to find something they love. This innovative addition to the market not only allows participants to refresh their wardrobes, but also helps reduce clothing waste by encouraging circular fashion.
Now in its second year, the market continues to grow in size and popularity. It will return to its original home at Kipara Rainforest Retreat, following a recent upgrade, including the installation of air conditioning! The Chasing Te Ra Coffee Van will also be on-site, serving delicious coffee the moment you walk in! Please note, this is a cash-only event, and shoppers are encouraged to BYO shopping bags.
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WHAT: Whitsunday Thrift Club’s Preloved Clothing Market
WHEN: Sunday, 9th March 9-am-1pm
WHERE: Kipara Rainforest Retreat

Find your new outfit at the Preloved Clothing Market too! Photo Sourced: Whitsunday Thrift Club’s website

Last week, Tourism Whitsundays, along with 15 of our members, embarked on The Whitsundays East Coast Roadshow, visiting Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. In each city, we hosted a networking event that brought together key trade partners and front-line travel agents. These events served as an excellent opportunity to engage with the professionals that promote and sell Whitsundays holidays to travellers all across the country.
More than 300 representatives registered for the events, and they were greeted with the infectious energy and enthusiasm of The Whitsundays' operators, who were outstanding ambassadors for our destination. Their vibrant presence helped bring a bit of The Whitsundays sunshine to each city. Through connecting with the attendees and providing training and updates, our members were able to showcase the strength and uniqueness of their products and highlight the wide range of exceptional experiences available in our region.
In addition to the networking events, we also met with Tourism Australia and Tourism and Events Queensland to discuss the latest developments in the region and updates on attending operators’ products. Providing these updates enables our state and national tourism bodies to further promote our region in their key domestic and international markets. The roadshow was a resounding success, reinforcing The Whitsundays as a must-visit destination while strengthening relationships with key industry partners across the country.
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Contributed by Laura Knipe, Marketing Manager, Tourism Whitsundays

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Last week, our Visitor Services Manager, Dea, joined Explore Group Australia's Sales Manager, Chris, for an unforgettable sail and snorkel trip to Whitehaven Beach and Chalkies Beach.
Read about Dea's adventures here!
Aboard a purpose-built catamaran with a small group, we set sail from Hamilton Island to the serene shores of Chalkies Beach.
After a thorough safety briefing, we plunged into the water for snorkelling, relishing the thrill of following a green turtle and swimming among vibrant marine life.
Dedicated staff members ensured our safety and enjoyment throughout the experience. After a refreshing lunch on board, we made our way to Whitehaven Beach.
There’s no better way to connect with nature than by feeling the silky sand beneath our toes and gazing at the calm, crystal-clear waters. Our adventure continued with a guided hike to the breathtaking Whitehaven Lookout.
This 2 km return trip is worth the effort, even on a steamy summer day. The panoramic view of the peaks of Whitsunday Island and the stunning shoreline of Whitehaven Beach is awe-inspiring every time, whether it's your first visit or your fiftieth.
For our return journey to Hamilton Island, the crew hoisted the sails, ensuring each passenger left with a big smile and a sense of wonder from the experience. A massive thank you to each crew member on board; their customer service and professionalism were remarkable.
Contributed by Dea, Visitor Services Manager Tourism Whitsundays

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As Mayor of the Whitsundays, my focus in this first term has been on advocating for our region and driving economic development that delivers real, tangible benefits for everyone in our community.

Our region is experiencing exciting growth, and we’re committed to keeping that momentum going forward—planning not just for today but for the next 30, 40, even 50 years, so that our community and our youth have every opportunity to thrive.

I’m also actively engaging with our federal and state governments to secure joint funding. Last week I spent significant time in Brisbane and at Queensland Parliament, meeting with ministers and officials to advance our regional priorities—especially housing, infrastructure, roads, and community services.

I had a productive session with new Whitsunday Minister Amanda Camm MP, along with discussions with Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie MP, key representatives from Transport and Main Roads, Sport and the Olympics, and the CEO of the Qld Reconstruction Authority.

With Council tightening its belt while we work to improve the liveability for our residents, these partnerships are vital. They help ensure we can continue to provide essential services and invest in projects that make the Whitsundays an even better place to live and work.

In line with our long-term vision, I’m delighted to announce the appointment of Paul Hanlon as our new Manager of Investment, Attraction, and Growth, starting next week.

Paul is no stranger to our region—he worked with the Whitsunday Regional Council’s economic development team from 2019 to 2021 and knows first-hand what makes our area so special.

His impressive experience across Australia, including his most recent role as CEO of the Shire of Woodanilling, demonstrates his proven ability to lead major infrastructure projects and we are confident he will help us create new jobs, attract investment, and secure long-term developments that improve the quality of life for all Whitsunday residents.

We’re committed to working together—Council, stakeholders, local businesses, and state/federal partners—to make each opportunity count.

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This month, we meet Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry member Tolita Dukes of 8 Seconds.
For the past 12 years, Tolita has been transforming how Whitsunday businesses approach marketing—taking it from an overwhelming afterthought to a systematic, stress-free process that delivers consistent results.
8 Seconds specialises in helping time-poor business owners escape the constant juggle of wearing too many hats with done-for-you marketing management.
"After 27 years in the Whitsundays, I've seen firsthand how our local businesses struggle to maintain marketing consistency while managing operations," Tolita shares. "We're supposed to be one of the most aspirational destinations in the world, yet many owners feel perpetually behind on their digital presence."
Tolita has identified two game-changing trends reshaping local business success: the time-saving power of AI-driven marketing automation, and the critical importance of review management in driving new customer decisions.
"98% of customers check reviews before booking or buying anything. Managing your reviews effectively is no longer optional—it directly determines whether new customers choose you or your competitors."
Tolita offers two practical insights:
   • From overwhelm to control: "Marketing isn't mysterious—it's a business process that can be systematised. We help clients transform from feeling behind to confidently managing their presence."
   • Customer service is your strongest marketing tool: "Most businesses overlook their biggest marketing opportunity—the everyday interactions with customers. Our Customer Service Hero program creates consistent standards that turn every interaction into a powerful marketing moment, regardless of staff turnover. It's the simplest, most cost-effective marketing tool at your disposal."
As a Chamber member, Tolita really enjoys the networking opportunities.
"It's a fantastic way to exchange ideas, find support, and celebrate each other's successes. Running a business can often feel lonely, especially when you're working independently, so being part of this community helps me stay engaged and inspired" said Tolita. Find out more at 8seconds.com.au.
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Tolita Dukes, Queensland Tourism Awards 2024

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Elder abuse is an issue that’s often overlooked, but the team at the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre is set to change that by equipping older Australians with the knowledge to recognise and respond to potential abuse. The session’s primary goal is to raise awareness of what elder abuse looks like, allowing attendees to address it if it happens to them or their loved ones and will be led by Sergeant Stephen Smith, Mackay District Crime Prevention Coordinator.
He states it’s an immerging issue that needs discussing, "While elder abuse does not have a legal definition yet, it is an issue which police are responding to in our domestic and family violence and also some criminal investigations," as Smith puts it, "Raising awareness also helps people who are demonstrating elder abuse to begin taking accountability and changing their behaviour."
With his expertise, Smith emphasizes the importance of understanding elder abuse as a growing concern. The session will cover many forms of elder abuse including physical, emotional, financial, and neglect, and will provide opportunities to help attendees identify these abusive behaviours.
By building awareness, individuals can build a foundation of understanding what elder abuse is. Attendees will also have the opportunity to ask questions, share personal experiences, and leave with a clearer understanding of the steps they can take to prevent elder abuse in their communities. As a vital step towards addressing elder abuse join in to make your loved ones safer.
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WHAT: Elder Abuse Info Session
WHEN: Tuesday 18th March, 11am-12.30pm
WHERE: Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre
RSVP: 14th March

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The Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue will be at Pets Domain in Bowen on the 8th of March for their Adopt-A-Dog Day! Mark it in your calendar as the day you could meet your new, best furry friend and loving companion.
Run by 100% volunteers, the Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue aims to give the animals in their care the best change at finding forever homes, and you just may be the one. Come and meet all their lovely pooches at the monthly markets hosted by Pet Domain Bowen, grab a snag at the sausage sizzle and maybe even win a raffle prize too!
The whole family is invited to come and pet the puppies, meet the dogs and feel the joy of a wagging doggy tail. This is your change to meet them, maybe add a new member to your family, and support your local rescue. There will also be face painting, tons of market stalls and food vendors, so make a dog’s day and visit Pets Domain in Bowen!

WHAT: Adopt-A-Dog Day & Monthly Market
WHEN: Saturday 8th March, 8am-1pm
WHERE: Pets Domain Bowen at 79 Powell Street, Bowen QLD

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During the recent North Queensland flooding, train drivers Jade and Renee spotted a stranded echidna along the Gregory Development Road.
With the help of the Bowen Rail Company’s rail traffic controller, the little creature was carefully relocated to a safer area away from traffic. Once out of harm's way, the echidna was able to get back on his way, snuffling through the bush.
This encounter highlights the Bowen Rail Company’s ongoing commitment to wildlife protection. From the early stages of designing the rail corridor to avoid critical habitat areas, to implementing monitoring programs that track and protect local wildlife, the company takes every opportunity to ensure the safety and preservation of their local native species.
The Bowen Rail Company is dedicated to making sure that both the environment and wildlife are safeguarded while continuing to operate services, demonstrating responsibility to both nature and the community.
Thank you Jade, Renee, and the rail traffic controller for looking out for this little guy.

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The Whitsunday Regional Council's Parks and Gardens team has been diligently working on significant upgrades to the Rose Bay Foreshore, improving both functionality and aesthetics for the community.
One of the key updates is the entrance upgrade, where three new sandstone blocks have replaced the old, worn post and railing system. These sandstone blocks not only provide a sturdier and more reliable entry point but also enhance the overall appearance of the foreshore, adding a touch of rustic elegance to the space. This change reflects a commitment to maintaining a welcoming and open spaced beach environment for locals and visitors alike.
Another improvement is the relocation of the beach shower, which has been moved to a more convenient location, making it easier for beachgoers to rinse off after a swim. To further enhance this area, two additional sandstone blocks were added around the shower, creating a more cohesive and visually appealing space. These thoughtful council upgrades ensure the foreshore remains functional, attractive, and enjoyable for everyone who visits and uses the beach.
Thanks to the Whitsunday Regional Council’s dedicated Parks and Gardens crew for their hard work and ongoing efforts in keeping local spaces clean and in top condition. Their commitment to enhancing the beauty and usability of the Rose Bay Foreshore is greatly appreciated by the community.
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The new sandstone block at the entrance to Rose Bay Foreshore. Photo Sourced: Whitsunday Regional Council Facebook Page.

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The Greater Whitsunday Vet Services are so excited to announce that they are having an Open Day Event for their new Proserpine clinic! The open day is so important as it showcases the brand-new clinic in its entirety. Come along on the 9th to see what your patients experience at the clinic, check out the amazing diagnostics equipment and experience how the pristine hospital ward is presented.  Collect an insight into what the day-to-day vet life looks like with a cool clinic tour every hour!
Get excited as they bring the local community together with over 20 market stalls in the spacious carpark including delicious food vendors. Greater Whitsunday Vet clinic is thrilled to support local businesses and for all the Proserpine and Whitsunday locals to meet their amazing new staff.
It is important to them that the locals know what Greater Whitsunday Vet Services brings to their community. Come along and have a chat to the friendly staff, share your experiences and ideas as they are always looking to enhance their services.
There will be a kid’s colouring competition to help give back, raffles to be won and staff ready to offer any advice that may be needed for your beloved pet. So, bring your dogs and your kids for a fun day of facepainting and even a best dressed competition - it’ll be a day for the whole family to enjoy!
WHAT: Greater Whitsunday Vet Service’s Proserpine Clinic Open Day
WHEN: Sunday, 9th March 10am-2pm
WHERE: 52 Main St Proserpine, Entrance via Dobbins Lane

Our previous best dressed pups, and a wonderful clinic tour on the day of the event! Photo supplied: Glenys Mansfield

Greater Whitsunday Vet Services, a local Bowen veterinary clinic, has expanded to service the wider Whitsunday community by opening a new clinic in the heart of Proserpine.
Located at 52 Main Street Proserpine, the new clinic will offer a comprehensive range of veterinary services including routine wellness exams, vaccinations, dental care, desexing, advanced imaging, surgical procedures, general health care, and preventative treatments.
Greater Whitsunday Vet Services Practice Owner and Veterinarian, Dr Jason Mansfield, said the expansion marks a significant milestone in the clinic’s mission to provide exceptional veterinary care.
“We are excited to extend Greater Whitsunday Vet Services’ reach throughout the Whitsunday region by opening up a new clinic on the Main Street of Proserpine,” Dr Mansfield said.
“Expanding to Proserpine will ensure accessible healthcare can be provided to all families and their beloved animals, meeting the growing needs of families in the wider Whitsunday region.
“The Proserpine clinic features state-of-the-art technology and equipment ensuring all our vets and nurses can deliver accurate diagnoses and effective treatments, enabling our customers to make informed decisions about their animal’s health and wellbeing.
“We approach veterinary medicine with a modern, professional, and compassionate mindset, and with currently six vets and 10 nurses the local Proserpine community can rest assured their animals will be getting the best care possible.”  
Their mission is focused on staff development, to offer number-one recommendations that provide the best patient outcomes.
We invite everyone to come and visit us at the clinic for our Open Day Sunday 9th March 2025 10am – 2pm and learn more about how we can help support the health and wellbeing of their animals and see our new clinic for themselves.
Clients can make appointments at their clinics in Bowen or Proserpine by calling (07) 4786 1010, or through their website: vetwhitsundays.com.au Greater Whitsunday Vet Services is there for you and your animal needs with 24/7 Afterhours service and mobile visits.
Opening Hours: Proserpine
Monday to Friday - 8:30 AM - 5.00 PM
Saturday & Sunday CLOSED
Opening Hours: Bowen
Monday / Tuesday / Wednesday / Friday - 8:30 AM - 5.00 PM
Thursday - 8:30 AM - 7:00 PM
Saturday / Sunday CLOSED

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Greater Whitsunday Vet Services has 6 qualified veterinarian professionals working between Bowen and Proserpine (with over 35 years of combined experience) and all being involved in mixed animal components. These dedicated local vets approach veterinary medicine with a modern, professional and compassionate mindset.
The Greater Whitsunday Vet team are staunch advocates for animal health providing sound advice and professional recommendations, always striving to offer the best possible care for your animal companions and livestock.
These passionate vets are always learning and developing their skills whether that is introducing a specialist to coach, training at another clinic or attending an out-of-town conference they are always looking at ways to innovate and learn to give their clients the best services available.
The Proserpine and Bowen clinics feature state-of-the-art technology and equipment ensuring all their vets and nurses can deliver accurate diagnoses and effective treatments. Their skilled team can provide most surgeries in-house allowing your animals to get the best care without traveling too far.
Greater Whitsunday Vets Services provide their vets with a wonderful work-life balance ensuring your animals receive the best possible care when they are on the job. It also allows them to enjoy the beautiful Whitsunday Region with their family and friends.

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Our wonderful Vet team. Photo supplied: Glenys Mansfield
no animal is too big for our amazing team! Photo supplied: Glenys Mansfield

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The veterinary nurses at Greater Whitsunday Vet Services aren't just standard, they are top-notch client liaisons. The team’s philosophy centres around friendly and easy interactions making your visit to the clinic as comfortable and seamless as possible.
Greater Whitsunday Vet Services’ nurses are here to ensure that clients feel heard, understood and cared about as much as possible and are devoted to understanding the needs of your pets. Each knowledgeable liaison will welcome you into the consult room and ensure they capture every bit of history or concerns you may be having.
Clear communication is at the heart of every service, enabling you to make informed decisions about your animal’s health and well-being. They will ensure you leave the consult room with complete clarity and understanding.

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