Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
The 2026 State Budget was handed down on Tuesday, with the Queensland Government focusing on stability amid global uncertainty while laying the foundations for the state's future growth and prosperity.
Delivered by Queensland Treasurer David Janetzki, the budget aims to ease cost-of-living pressures while delivering record investment in health services.
Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP said the Queensland Budget has delivered significant investment for the Whitsundays, welcoming the budget and saying it provides tangible benefits for local families, businesses and communities.
“The Treasurer has just handed down the Government’s second Budget and there is great news for Mackay and the Whitsundays,” Ms Camm said.
Among the headline announcements is increased investment in health services with a major expansion of Mackay Base Hospital announced.
There will be at least 128 additional overnight beds under the Government’s Hospital Rescue Plan and the budget also funds growth in the hospital workforce, increasing staffing levels to almost 3,000 full-time equivalent health workers across the Mackay and Whitsunday region.
Road users across the region are also set to benefit from increased infrastructure spending.
The Budget locks in Queensland’s historic 80:20 funding agreement with the Federal Government to deliver $9 billion in Bruce Highway upgrades, including projects aimed at improving safety, flood resilience and freight efficiency along one of Australia’s most important transport corridors.
Ms Camm said the Government remained committed to working towards long-term solutions for the flood-prone Goorganga Plains section of the Bruce Highway, an issue that regularly disrupts tourism, freight movements and supply chains during severe weather events.
“Continued investment in the Bruce Highway and progress on the Goorganga Plains project is critical for our region,” Ms Camm said.
The Budget also includes continued investment in frontline policing and community safety measures, supporting the Government’s broader focus on reducing crime and improving community confidence across regional Queensland.
“Local leaders have long argued that regional Queensland deserves infrastructure investment that matches its contribution to the state’s economy,” said Ms Camm.
“This year’s Budget responds to that call, with significant funding directed towards healthcare, safer roads and stronger frontline services that will benefit local families, businesses and communities for years to come.”
Member for Burdekin Dale Last said the Budget delivered practical investments that would strengthen the Bowen community while providing relief for families facing ongoing cost-of-living pressures.
“This Budget is about delivering for local families and ensuring our communities have the infrastructure and services they need now and into the future,” Mr Last said.
“Reliable services are essential for our region. These investments will ensure local residents, growers and businesses can continue to access safe, secure and reliable services.”
“We know families are still feeling the pressure of higher household costs,” Mr Last said.
“That’s why we’re continuing to deliver targeted relief while also investing in the services and infrastructure our communities rely on every day.”
Whitsunday Skyway At Airlie Beach
Supporting construction of the tourist Skyway in Airlie Beach with $5 million over two years.
Shute Harbour boat ramp
Investing in a new four-lane boat ramp at Shute Harbour. Part of the Safer Roads, Better Transport Initiative.
Proserpine Replacement Police Facility
Replacement of the police facility in Proserpine to support frontline policing services and enhance community safety.
Rural Fire Brigade Stations
A replacement rural fire brigade station at Abbot Point to support fire and emergency services to the community.
Generational Infrastructure Upgrades
Restoration of the heritage-listed Bowen Courthouse and replacement of the Bowen Wharf.
Local Sports Club Upgrades
Investing in local club facility improvements for Airlie Beach Bowls Club, Bowen Seagulls Rugby League Club, and Whitsunday Brahmans RLFC.
Residential Activation Fund
Delivering essential infrastructure and utility connections to support residential development in Bowen South, Cannonvale and Proserpine.
More social and community housing
Expanding and improving social and community housing across the Mackay Whitsundays region, with 121 homes in construction or under contract.
A truck fire at Midge Point has helped expose what authorities describe as Australia’s largest cocaine importation plot, with investigators alleging a 2.7-tonne drug shipment worth $816 million passed through Whitsunday waters before being transported to Sydney. The investigation has so far resulted in six arrests and uncovered an alleged trafficking operation spanning hundreds of kilometres along the east coast.
A major drug investigation that started at Midge Point has resulted in Australia's largest-ever cocaine bust, with authorities alleging a 2.7-tonne shipment uncovered in Sydney was imported through North Queensland as part of an organised crime operation.
On Friday 19th June, AFP officers searched a semi-rural property in Londonderry where, after two men allegedly fled the scene, they discovered containers of cocaine hidden beneath the floor boards. The seizure had an estimated street value of $816 million.
On May 30th 2026, at around 8:05, police were notified of a flatbed truck on fire right outside of a boat ramp on Jimmy Rocks Road, Midge Point.
After a full investigation of the scene, police located 40kg of cocaine and later identified a 41-year-old Mackay man as the truck's owner, sending investigators on a trail that eventually landed them in Sydney.
Six people have now been charged over their alleged involvement in the operation, including two Petrie residents and a New South Wales man accused of helping collect and move the drugs after they arrived near Midge Point.
Police allege the group played various roles in the attempted importation and distribution network, charging individuals with offences related to possession of illicit drugs, or conspiracy to possess them.
“This result highlights the strength of the Queensland Joint Organised Crime Taskforce and the importance of strong partnerships between frontline police, specialist investigators and our Commonwealth law enforcement partners,” Detective Acting Chief Superintendent Troy Pukallus said in an AFP media release on June 22nd.
“This outcome has removed a significant quantity of cocaine and methamphetamine from the criminal market and prevented these dangerous drugs from causing further harm in Queensland and more broadly across Australia.
“What began with the actions of Mackay police and the Mackay Criminal Investigation Branch following the discovery of drugs at Midge Point evolved into a sophisticated, multi-agency investigation targeting an organised criminal network.
“Investigations of this scale require experience, persistence and collaboration, and I want to acknowledge the dedication of all officers involved in bringing this matter before the courts and protecting the community from the harm these drugs can cause.”
The vessel suspected of importing the illicit drugs into Midge Point has been discovered and detained by authorities off the Solomon Islands.
If you're using DISC, it's probably because someone introduced it to your workplace years ago and it simply became "what we do here." Not because it's the best tool available.
DISC was developed nearly 100 years ago and focuses on categorising people into four broadly defined behavioural styles. It tells you how someone tends to behave. Don’t get me wrong - definitely useful - however, it’s like describing a car by its colour and never looking under the bonnet.
CliftonStrengths takes a very different approach – and I’m hooked! Rather than putting people into DISC’s four boxes, it identifies an individual's unique pattern from 34 talents. Based on positive psychology (looking at what you do well vs what are your gaps and weaknesses), it’s like cracking open your head to see exactly how you tick – but only in a positive way! It helps people understand what they naturally do best and how they can easily leverage those talents for better performance, job satisfaction, and team collaboration. In this world of ‘busy-ness’ I’m all about efficiency, so it makes total sense to me.
The research is compelling. Gallup has studied millions of people over several decades and found individuals who ‘sit in their strengths’ every day are more engaged, productive and experience greater wellbeing. Teams that intentionally use their strengths perform better, get along better, and collaborate more effectively.
DISC often creates statements such as, "That's just my style." Whereas the CliftonStrengths creates conversations such as, "How can I leverage my talents better?" The first statement is a ‘full stop’ whilst the latter fosters growth.
In today's workplace, we don't need more labels and ‘boxes’ constructed around our potentials. We need people who understand their strengths, appreciate the strengths of others, and know how to combine collective strengths to achieve greater outcomes.
Think of it this way - DISC is a black-and-white photo of your team, whereas CliftonStrengths is high-definition colour. Once you've seen the difference, it's hard to go back. Level-up your team and your business with CliftonStrengths!
Budget Shifts: A Turning Point for Property, Tax and Family Wealth
Every so often, a Federal Budget signals more than minor adjustments. The 2026 Budget is one of those.
With proposed changes to negative gearing, capital gains tax (CGT), and discretionary family trusts, the Government has targeted three of the most common strategies Australians use to build wealth.
For many locals this is not just a policy update. It’s a shift that could influence decisions for years to come.
Negative Gearing – A Narrower Approach
Negative gearing has long supported property investors by allowing rental losses to reduce taxable income from other sources. That is now being scaled back.
From 1st July 2027, negative gearing will largely be limited to newly built properties, with existing investments continuing under current rules. New purchases of established properties will still allow deductions, but those losses can no longer offset salary income and instead must be carried forward to offset future property income or gains.
The intention is to direct investment toward new housing supply and improve opportunities for first-home buyers.
However, investors may become more selective, development demand could increase, and the property market may begin to split between those operating under old and new rules.
Capital Gains Tax – A Structural Shift
Alongside this sits a significant change to capital gains tax.
The long-standing 50% CGT discount is proposed to be replaced with inflation indexation, along with a minimum 30% tax rate on gains from 1st July 2027. Rather than applying a blanket discount, the system will focus on taxing gains above inflation, while ensuring a base level of tax is still paid.
While the concept sounds straightforward, the implications are broader. Investment strategies may need to be reassessed. Importantly, gains accumulated before the change are expected to be protected, which may lead to increased planning and restructuring ahead of implementation.
Family Trusts – Reduced Flexibility
The third key change involves discretionary (family) trusts.
From 1st July 2028, a minimum 30% tax rate is proposed on trust income, regardless of how it is distributed. Historically, trusts have allowed income to be distributed across different tax brackets. Under the new rules, that benefit is significantly reduced.
A Shift in Direction
Taken together, these measures reflect a broader shift.
The system is moving towards more consistent taxation of capital, while easing reliance on concessions that have historically favoured investors. The goals—improving housing affordability and fairness—are clear. However, the outcome will ultimately depend on how markets and individuals respond.
What Should You Do?
At this stage, remember these proposals are not yet law.
For now, the focus should be on awareness, not reaction:
Final Thoughts
Tax rules evolve, and this Budget marks a clear pivot. For some, that will create opportunity. For others, it may require adjustment.
Either way, those who understand the changes early are best placed to respond.
If you’d like an obligation free review of your financial situation, call us for an appointment today.
On the 13 June I was privileged to be a Guest Speaker along with the remarkable McQuility ‘’Coco’’ Quirke a veteran of many overseas tours to unspeakable War zones. We told our stories at the WHITSUNDAY SUICIDE PREVENTION NETWORK Annual Fundraiser Legends night in Bowen.
We both shared our powerful and inspiring messages of ‘’Hope’’ to all those in attendance, encouraging that everyone can recover from ‘’dark days’’ on the journey to physical and mental stability if they reach out and seek help. Both our stories of overcoming diversity, courage, thinking positive, being proactive and not giving up were meant to motivate our guests. By the cheers and claps we both succeeded and at the same time felt humbled!
This premier event arranged by the amazing Jen Lowcock of award winning Lowcock Builder exceeded all expectations. Jen’s meticulous planning, marketing and seamless execution was absolutely amazing. There were hours of planning and preparation, what a talent! The work that was put in by Jen and her team for this Gala Event was just incredible. In attendance were the WHO’s WHO of our Region. Ron Peterson the Manager of Wesley LifeForce Suicide Prevention Networks and founding President and Chairman of WSPN was in attendance with his Team from interstate.
The remarkable Event was held at the phenomenal venue 360 on the Hill in Bowen, just incredible! The décor was AMAZING, black/white/gold was just stunning. The food and catering was to die for!
The number of local & regional sponsors for the event was just outstanding! Their generosity covered the categories from Bronze to Platinum. There were 33 in total, the result of some remarkable work of Jen Lowcock. The Event arranged a number of ‘’live auction’’ prizes donated by many local businesses, truly remarkable! All the proceeds to this non for profit community led network.
All guests had the opportunity to wind down later in the night with live music from Zed Charles and the Band. Many on the dance floor showed rhythm, fluidity and polish. The President of WSPN, Matt Stokes had his dancing shoes on following a standout performance as MC for the night. The recipient of the Whitsunday Regional Council 2025 ‘’Citizen of the Year’’, Matt has dedicated the past decade supporting our community through his work with WSPN. His tireless advocacy for mental health, mentoring of young people and commitment to creating a stronger, more connected community have inspired us all! The community is indebted to this man as he balances a huge and diverse workload. In charge of Plants Whitsunday, he juggles a busy timetable around fitting in time to spend time with his beautiful family, I am so proud to call him a ‘’great friend’’
The words of encouragement from myself and McQuility were meant to inspire and the funds raised will greatly support this important cause. Being retired, I am happy to volunteer my time to any employer, sport group or school to speak and provide inspiring stories.
Feel free to contact Michael Kimpton
0417 717 818
mkmotivationalspeaker@gmail.com
Last week Council adopted the 2026/27 Whitsunday Regional Council Budget.
I know most people don't spend their time reading budget papers or financial statements. What they want to know is simple – what's happening to my rates, what am I getting for it, and is Council spending my money wisely?
They're fair questions, and they were front of mind for Councillors throughout this year's budget process.
Over the past two years, we've spent a lot of time taking a hard look at the Council's finances. We had identified some challenges that had been building in previous terms of government, including a large deficit in the Council's General Fund. Rather than kicking the can down the road, this Council made a conscious decision to tackle those issues head on.
It was time to tighten the belt. Before considering any rate increase, Councillors directed management to look inward first. We challenged spending, reviewed services, identified efficiencies and looked for ways to do things better. Costs are rising steeply with high inflation and Like every household and business across the Whitsundays, Council has had to take a close look at where money is being spent and make savings where we can.
It hasn't been easy but in a relatively short period of time, Council has reduced its General Fund deficit from around $12 million to approximately $3 million. There is still more work to do, but it is a significant step towards building a financially stronger and more sustainable organisation.
At the same time, we can't lose sight of the fact that the Whitsundays is one of Queensland's fastest-growing regional communities. More people are choosing to live here, more businesses are investing here and that means continued demand for roads, water, sewerage, parks, community facilities and essential services.
This year's budget invests more than $100 million in infrastructure and services across our region, including roads, footpaths, water and sewerage infrastructure, waste services, parks, pools, libraries and community programs.
Importantly, we've adopted an average general rate increase of four per cent across all categories, ensuring a fair and balanced approach across residential, business, rural, tourism, mining and island communities.
If I was to describe this Council's journey so far, I would say our first year was about understanding, our second year was about reform, and this year is about delivery.
Our community expects results, and that's exactly what we're focused on delivering as we continue building a stronger future for the Whitsundays.
The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry congratulates local manufacturer Scallywag Fabrication on successfully securing funding through the Queensland Government’s Business Growth Fund program.
The funding will support the continued rollout of advanced manufacturing technology within Scallywag Fabrication’s growing Proserpine facility, helping increase local manufacturing capacity, improve production capability, create future employment opportunities and strengthen advanced manufacturing in the Whitsundays region.
The project includes additional high-end aluminium welding systems and specialised fabrication infrastructure to help the business improve efficiency, increase output, further upskill staff and continue delivering Australian-made products from the region.
Founded by Jason Weir and Jannah Baker, Scallywag Fabrication has become well known for its innovative approach to aluminium fabrication, manufacturing Ute trays, canopies and 4WD accessories for customers across Australia. The business has also gained recognition for championing advanced technology, regional manufacturing, and workforce development opportunities within the Whitsundays.
Jannah said many businesses think grants are all about being good at writing, but in reality, most of the hard work happens long before an application is submitted.
“I’m really passionate about helping more businesses understand that grants are actually achievable, especially in regional areas where many businesses don’t apply simply because they think they won’t be successful,” she said.
“With AI now available, grant writing itself has become far more accessible for someone that doesn’t consider themselves a good formal writer. The hard part isn’t necessarily writing the application anymore; it’s the strategic thinking, planning, positioning, and groundwork that needs to happen well before a grant opens.”
When asked what she believes contributes to successful grant applications, Jannah shared the following practical insights:
“The strongest applications usually come from people who deeply believe in what they’re building, because that passion naturally comes through in the application.”
The Chamber acknowledges Scallywag Fabrication’s ongoing contribution to regional manufacturing, innovation and local employment pathways, and looks forward to seeing the positive impact this project will have on the Whitsundays business community.
Beach expert Brad Farmer with Mayor Ry Collins
Beach expert and conservationist Brad Farmer has spent more than four decades assessing Australia's coastline, but on his latest visit to the Whitsundays, he wasn't focused solely on the region's most famous stretch of sand, Whitehaven.
Instead, the Tourism Australia Beach Ambassador set out to explore lesser-known beaches across the mainland and islands, asking local figures such as Tourism Whitsunday Chairperson Katelyn Aslett and Mayor Ry Collins, in search for destinations that also capture the great Australian beach experience.
“70% of international tourist arrivals in Australia are seeking a beach, aquatic or coastal experience and that leads them to places like Bondi, Gold Coast, South East Queensland and Whitehaven,” Brad said.
“But they have become almost overexposed or overloved.
“I would personally like to see a greater diversity of product offerings."
During his visit, Brad explored several beaches across the Whitsundays, including Gloucester Beach, Hideaway Bay, Dingo Beach and Honeymoon Beach on Haslewood Island. While Whitehaven remains the region's best-known destination, he said these number of lesser-known locations deserved greater attention from visitors.
“Airlie Beach in Whitsundays is synonymous with Whitehaven,” Brad said.
“But like everywhere, if you point people in the right direction, they're going to find out-of-the-box places around the area.”
Farmers criteria for rating a beach is an extensive 130 points but they can really be boiled down to three. Affordable, accessible and authentically Australian.
He stressed the importance of balancing tourism growth with environmental protection, warning that the natural beauty attracting visitors today cannot be taken for granted, as he mentions with our Asian counterparts.
“In places like Bali and Thailand, the over-commercialisation of a site is not a desirable thing,” Brad said.
“People are increasingly looking for green as our gold.
"Environmental protection and tourism guardianship, stewardship must go hand in hand.”
Earlier this month, Tourism Whitsundays, along with 14 of its members, took The Whitsundays East Coast Roadshow to Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne, connecting with the travel agents and trade partners who promote and sell Whitsundays holidays to travellers across the country.
In Brisbane, operators gathered at Lina Rooftop to share what's new and what's next for the region. Sydney's Ivy Sunroom followed, before the roadshow wrapped up at The Boatbuilders Yard in South Wharf, Melbourne.
Tourism Whitsundays said that at each stop, members were outstanding ambassadors for the destination, bringing genuine enthusiasm for The Whitsundays and showcasing the strength and diversity of their products.
Through face-to-face conversations and product updates, almost 300 agents left the events better equipped to recommend The Whitsundays with confidence.
Alongside the networking events, the group also met with Tourism Australia and Tourism and Events Queensland to share the latest developments across the region and updates on attending operators' products.
“Keeping our state and national tourism bodies informed ensures The Whitsundays continues to be well represented in key domestic and international markets.”
“A huge thank you to sponsors Palm Bay Resort, Hamilton Island and Whitsunday Coast Airport for making it all possible. And to our 14 members who made the trip south and represented our region so well: thank you for making the week such a great one.”
Contributed by Tourism Whitsundays
Whitsunday Coast Airport's new Kerbside Assistance Service will commence on 29th June as part of a three-month trial. Photo Source: Whitsunday Regional Council
Travellers requiring additional assistance at Whitsunday Coast Airport will soon have access to a new support service designed to make their journey through the airport easier.
A new Kerbside Assistance Service is set to commence on 29th June as part of a three-month trial that will provide pre-booked assistance from the airport car park or designated drop-off areas through to the terminal check-in area.
The initiative is part of a broader goal of making the airport a more enjoyable, easier and safer experience for all travellers. This will include several new accessibility improvements also being introduced, including dedicated spaces at baggage claim and reserved priority seating at boarding gates.
"Whitsunday Coast Airport has experienced extraordinary growth over recent years, with passenger numbers reaching record levels and more people than ever choosing to travel through our region," Mayor Collins said.
"As our airport continues to grow, so too does our responsibility to ensure every passenger enjoys a positive experience from the moment they arrive.
"We want every visitor and resident to feel confident, comfortable and cared for when travelling through Whitsunday Coast Airport."
Director Commercial Businesses Craig Turner said accessibility and customer service were becoming increasingly important considerations for airports across Australia.
"Passenger expectations continue to evolve and accessibility is now a critical part of delivering a modern airport experience," Mr Turner said.
"This pilot program has been developed to provide practical assistance for passengers who may benefit from a little extra support between their vehicle and the terminal.
"Importantly, this service complements the assistance already available through airlines and demonstrates our ongoing commitment to continuous improvement across all aspects of the passenger journey.
"We've taken inspiration from leading airports around the country and tailored a solution that suits the needs of our community while remaining practical and sustainable for a regional airport."
Mr Turner said the airport would monitor demand, passenger feedback and operational performance throughout the three-month trial period.
"Whether it's new airline routes, terminal upgrades or improved passenger services, our focus remains on ensuring Whitsunday Coast Airport delivers an exceptional experience for every traveller,” Mr Turner said.
The Kerbside Assistance Service will operate Monday to Friday from 8:00am to 4:00pm (excluding public holidays) and must be booked at least 72 hours in advance.
Airport staff can provide luggage trolleys, wheelchairs and general assistance to the terminal check-in area. The service does not replace airline assistance and airport staff are not trained carers or medical support personnel. Full terms and conditions apply.
Passengers can make a booking by emailing wca@wrc.qld.gov.au
The third annual Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN) Legends’ Night proved to be another spectacular success over the weekend, raising an impressive $55K for this worthwhile local charity.
Held at 360 On The Hill, Flag Staff Hill event space in Bowen, a total of 130 guests attended this sold-out event.
Designed to be more than just a fundraiser, the event saw local ‘home grown heroes’ take to the stage to share their story.
First, local Iron Man and motivational speaker Michael Kimpton inspired the crowd with his story of how a motorbike accident changed his life and led him on a different path, one where he discovered a new version of himself.
“We can recover physically but we also need to cope with our mental resilience to ensure our wellbeing,” he shared.
Former army medic, McQuility ‘Coco’ Qurikewith also took to the stage sharing his story of how 16 out of 18 in his platoon were tragically killed in an explosion.
He nearly died three times in the days afterwards and is still getting operations 13 years later to deal with the physical side effects.
He told the story of how he disappeared into a dark place mentally following the incident, but managed to overcome and now uses his story to help others.
President of WSPN Matt Stokes said he was both moved and humbled by the evening which was full of emotion and meaning, but also a lot of fun.
“It was amazing, we couldn’t have asked for it to have gone any better,” he said.
“Every little detail was faultless and a big thank you to Jen Lowcock for everything she did to make the night so perfect.
“We have a super generous community with a lot of people donating their services, from the buses to the décor – we would like to say a big thank you to all our sponsors.”
“The stories of our home-grown legends who spoke on the night really touched the crowd, everyone could relate to it, it was so powerful!”
Event Coordinator Jen Lowcock said she was thrilled with how the evening unfolded and acknowledged 360 On The Hill for orchestrating such a fine evening.
“It’s such a beautiful location and the service was impeccable, the food was amazing and everything ran on-time and smoothly,” she shared.
“We couldn’t have asked for it to be any better!”
The evening was highlighted with the bluesy tones of live music act Zed Charles who had the crowd dancing until midnight.
All proceeds of the evening are ploughed straight back into WSPN initiatives which include free counselling services for families affected by suicide, free breathing classes and many other services across the community.
A young traveller helped a woman experiencing a medical episode at a local shopping centre. Stock image, illustration only
A simple act of kindness at Whitsunday Plaza has touched the hearts of hundreds of locals, showing that compassion can make all the difference.
After experiencing a medical episode while shopping, a local woman found herself in need of immediate assistance. Fortunately, help was close at hand, in the form of a kind traveller who jumped to her aid.
After the incident, the lady took to social media, thanking the young man and describing him as a “good soul” for the care and concern he showed during a difficult moment.
According to the woman, the stranger quickly found her a chair to sit on and purchased a drink for her while she waited for assistance from staff at LiveLife Pharmacy.
She also expressed her gratitude to pharmacy team members Jenna, Kim and Mel for the support and care they provided.
The post struck a chord with the community, attracting almost 200 likes, praising the young man’s actions and celebrating the kindness shown by both him and the pharmacy staff.
The woman said she hopes the young man, believed to be from either the United States or Canada, sees her message and understands just how much his help meant.
In a world often dominated by negative headlines, the story is a reminder that small acts of kindness from strangers can leave a lasting impact.
A cheeky young pup with a big heart is looking for a family to call his own after a rough start to life.
Five-month-old Staffy cross Robb was found wandering the streets of Home Hill and, despite efforts to locate his owners, was never claimed. Thankfully, he was taken in by Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue, which has been caring for him while he recovers and waits for his forever home.
Described as sweet, playful and full of personality, Robb has already overcome more than most puppies his age. Recently, he underwent surgery to repair a herniated belly button as well as operations on both ears after suffering from haematomas.
Now fully on the road to recovery, Robb is ready to leave shelter life behind and begin the next chapter with a loving family.
The young pup's carers say he has plenty of affection to give and would thrive in a home where he can continue to grow, play and enjoy the care every dog deserves.
Robb's adoption fee is $400, and anyone interested in giving him a forever home is encouraged to contact BCPRI on Facebook.
After everything he has been through, Robb is hoping his perfect match is just around the corner.
Opinion Piece By Richard Evans, President Whitsundays Writers Festival
We have no shortage of brilliant creative people in the Whitsundays. What we’re short on is the framework to support them.
Writing groups meet in spare rooms. Festival groups fundraise year-to-year with no certainty there’ll be a next year. These aren’t fringe concerns – they’re the heartbeat of a social community worth living in.
It’s time to modernise. Time to take our creative life seriously, for the benefit of everyone.
What we're asking for isn't complicated.
We need a clear, accessible arts and culture policy that recognises the full creative ecosystem - from writing, visual arts, filmmaking and performance, to heritage, festivals, museums, libraries, and community arts.
Yes, funding matters. But so does affordable spaces to create and perform, support for local organisations and their fantastic volunteers, opportunities for artists to develop their craft, pathways for young people, cultural tourism initiatives, public art, and the preservation of our region's stories and heritage.
Most importantly, we need a shared vision that brings these elements together under a single, fair, and transparent framework. Not patchwork grants. Not one-off decisions. Not the luck of the draw. A genuine commitment to arts and culture that is written down, applied consistently, measured against clear outcomes, and reviewed openly with the community it serves.
Other regional councils have done it and reaped the benefits of what follows. Artists stay, tourists come, and the stories of a place get told properly, not left to fade.
Here in the Whitsundays, we have extraordinary natural raw material. Writers who capture this landscape like no-one else. Performers who fill every seat they’re given. Visual artists whose work deserves a proper platform — just as the new Community Gallery in Proserpine is beginning to show us what’s possible.
Our cultural community deserve better than crossed fingers and collection tins.
An accessible arts policy means a first-time author gets the same fair shot as an established local group. A teenager wanting to learn film editing has somewhere to go. The door is open, not just ajar.
The economic case is real. Local creative precincts and activities lift a community and cultural tourism draw visitors in ways that are hard to put in a spreadsheet, but very easy to feel when they’re gone.
But the deeper case is simpler. A community that creates together knows itself. It has memory, identity, and the confidence to imagine its own future. Culture provides a social asset for all of us.
That’s worth a policy. That’s worth a seat at the table.
The creative community is ready for the conversation. We invite community leaders, businesses, philanthropists, stakeholders and government to help shape a shared vision for arts and culture in the Whitsundays.
Richard can be contacted via hello@whitsundayswriters.com
Welcome to Create. Connect. Whitsundays., the weekly feature now proudly presented through a collaboration between the Whitsundays Writers Festival and Creative Connections Whitsunday.
This feature continues the wonderful work established by former journalist Seb, whose commitment to highlighting local creativity helped shine a spotlight on the people, stories and organisations that enrich the cultural life of our region. We are delighted to continue that legacy and provide a dedicated space for creativity in the pages of our local newspaper.
Each week, Create. Connect. Whitsundays will feature thought-provoking articles, local creative profiles, poetry, writing opportunities, and information about exhibitions, galleries, markets, and cultural events happening across the Whitsundays.
The Whitsundays is home to an extraordinary community of writers, artists, musicians, makers, performers, volunteers, and creative thinkers, all contributing to the unique character of our region.
Whitsundays Writers Festival President Richard Evans said creativity plays an important role in building community connections.
"Stories help us understand who we are and where we belong. Through this feature, we hope to showcase the remarkable creative talent that exists across our region and encourage more people to engage with the arts, whether as creators, participants or audiences."
Creative Connections Whitsunday President Glenda Brown said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to supporting a thriving creative community.
"Arts and culture are woven into everyday life. Creativity brings people together, supports wellbeing, sparks new ideas, and helps build stronger, more connected communities. Creative Corner will celebrate the people who make the Whitsundays such a vibrant place to live."
Whether you're a creator, a supporter, or simply curious, we invite you to join us each week as we celebrate the creative spirit of the Whitsundays.
We also welcome contributions from across the community. If you would like to submit a poem, creative writing piece, profile suggestion, event information, or share your creative story, please contact hello@whitsundayswriters.com
The White Cross
The success of the Cool Waters Methodist Youth Camp at Emu Park led to plans for another camp further north. Noel McClintock, who ran a watch and jewellery shop in Proserpine, learned of a large block of land at Mandalay with no road access. He contacted Rev Ivan Alcorn, head of the Methodist Youth Department, and arranged its purchase from Mr Janson of Airlie Beach.
The site was originally a very small coconut plantation that had been established by the Waterson family. The only access to Mandalay in those days was by sea and a trip was organised by the local Methodists. With the help of Rev Ivan Alcorn from Brisbane, they inspected the site of what was to become the new Methodist Youth Camp.
The site’s tropical jungle, palm-lined beach and small shack among the trees above the avenue of hoop pines were strikingly beautiful. The first caretaker, Bessie Stowe, lived there and rowed across to Airlie Beach before the road was built.
Much work was needed to establish the camp. Ro Jackson used a two-cylinder John Deere crawler to cut a road into the block, and Robbie Vonhoff graded it. The track was cleared through jungle, swamp, hills, springs, rocks and boulders from what later became Shute Harbour Road, at that time ending at Jubilee Pocket.
The outdoor chapel and cross were built within the avenue of hoop pines looking across the bay to Airlie Beach. Sleeper logs were set up and angled to the centre aisle and a pulpit was constructed out of stones from the original jetty on the foreshore.
Keith Heaton and another teacher took a year off from teaching and built the first dormitories and facilities. The minister of the time, Barry Dangerfield, negotiated a good price for some bricks from Pindi Pindi, mainly reject clay bricks with very minor imperfections. However, Rev. Alcorn was told they could have as many bricks as could be shifted in a fortnight, free of charge. And so, the Jacksons closed their sawmill for the two weeks to undertake the task. Spearheaded by Mick Grevell, John Jepsen, Watt Jackson and Allen Cumming, the job was completed with the help of church volunteers.
Cool Palms Methodist Camp opened on November 1, 1969, with Howard and Daisy Walsh as the first caretakers of the camp. Bruce Muller recalls that they slept on camp stretchers in army tents at the first camp that he attended and that it was a great adventure.
Other churches used the camp and its facilities. In the late 1960s, the Adventist Church held meetings there and used the dormitories for campouts. Occasionally, a funeral service was conducted there.
As was the case with many enterprises of the day, the facility was always short of money. There was much fund-raising by the local Methodist congregation and so many people who gave so much of their time to make this dream become a reality. Sadly, it was eventually sold off, and the dedication, hard work and self- sacrifice of so many locals was cast aside to history. Some of the money was spent on a small number of blocks at Cannon Valley which included a parsonage, and the rest went to Brisbane.
It is uncertain when the Cool Palms Methodist building was pulled down. Sadly, all that remains today of this popular camp is the big white cross and a few of the pews situated amidst big shade trees and facing out over the water.
Story and photo sourced from Bruce Rath Muller’s recollections (PHMS Magazine December 2020) and PHMS archives.
Look for an active teat like this to identify whether any joeys survive the deceased macropod.
Fauna Rescue is reminding locals to check the pouch anytime a macropod (a kangaroo or a wallaby) is found deceased.
The risk of hitting wildlife is a sad reality of driving across the region, so should residents find themselves in the situation, they’re encouraged to, if safe to do so, perform a pouch check - and potentially save a life.
When checking a pouch, gently open and inspect the area. Look for a joey – even a tiny, furless one. Feel for movement or warmth. And finally, importantly: check for an active teat.
An active teat is when the mother’s teat is elongated so it can be attached inside the joey’s mouth. In young joeys, the teat actually swells to anchor them in place while they feed.
“If you see an active teat but no joey, it’s very likely the joey is big enough to come out of pouch and has retreated from their injured/deceased mum.” Fauna Rescue explained.
“Usually they hide in nearby grass or bushes, but don't typically go too far.”
In this situation, the organisation advise to call a wildlife rescuer immediately and leave the deceased mum where she is in case the joey returns to her smell.
If you're able to do so, take a clear photo of the teat to send to the Fauna Rescue group on Facebook. This helps rescuers assess the situation quickly and give the best advice.
“Call a wildlife rescue immediately if you find a deceased macropod,” Fauna Rescue said — even if you’re unsure.
Save the Fauna Rescue hotline number in your phone: 4947 3389
Kala Auda has been praised for her exceptional care and maturity as she undertakes her Certificate III in Health Services at Bowen Hospital.
Bowen State High School are celebrating First Nations student Kala Auda, a Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Foundation (QATSIF) scholarship holder and Rugby 7s player excelling in her healthcare journey.
Currently completing her Certificate III in Health Services through a school-based traineeship at the Bowen Hospital, Kala finishing Grade 12 and already shining.
The school nurse Caz Cole has reported to be absolutely thrilled with the outstanding progress she is making, and a community member has even reached out to praise Kala’s work.
“My father was in care for about ten days and [Kala] was an amazing support to him, I was surprised to find out she was on placement through school.” Christine Chambers shared.
“She showed such maturity and grace sitting with and caring for an old man who was extremely scared and lost. So a big thank you from my whole family and I wish you well in all your future endeavours.”
For Kala, the experience has been rewarding and is leading her toward for a bright future.
“The Certificate III in nursing has encouraged me to do something out of my comfort zone and I have learnt a lot. The people I have met during this certificate has been great and they made me realise I must cherish the life and appreciate everything I have,” she said.
Bowen State Principal Mr Harris added:
“Kala’s is one example of how many students at Bowen State High School have focused on their career aspirations and worked hard to make it happen.
“Kala’s achievements have not been without challenges, and I am proud of her courage and persistence to work through those challenges to be where she is today. She is a wonderful role model for other First Nations students.”
School fetes, chocolate drives and raffle books are the typical norm when it comes to fundraising, but Collinsville State High School has been doing things a little differently for more than a decade.
When the school’s Parents and Citizens Association floated the idea of a Collinsville Bacon Busters fundraiser, it's fair to say it was met with a fair degree of scepticism. And yet, twelve years later the event has become one of the region's most anticipated events, drawing visitors from far and wide and raising thousands of dollars for the school and local causes along the way.
On Saturday 22 August, Collinsville will celebrate not one milestone, but two. The Collinsville State High School P&C Association will host the 11th Collinsville Bacon Busters, while Collinsville State High School celebrates 40 years of secondary education at its Walker Street address.
Chances are, if you've lived in Collinsville over the past forty years, Collinsville State High School has been part of your story in some way. Whether you attended the school yourself, had children or grandchildren graduate, worked there or supported it from the sidelines, the school has helped shape generations of Collinsville families. For former students, Bacon Busters weekend offers the perfect reason to come home.
Collinsville is one of those towns that never really leaves you. No matter where life takes you, there is always a connection that draws people back — family, friendships, memories and a strong sense of belonging.
This August, former students, staff and families are invited to return and celebrate 40 years of Collinsville State High School. Reconnect with old classmates, share stories from your school days and see how the school continues to provide opportunities for the next generation of Collinsville students.
Throughout the day, Collinsville State High School will host school tours and historical displays featuring photographs, newsletters, uniforms, trophies and memorabilia from across the past forty years. Whether you're searching for a familiar face in an old photograph, reliving sporting triumphs or simply reflecting on how much has changed, there will be plenty of opportunities to celebrate the school's rich history.
While the school celebrates its past, Bacon Busters will provide plenty of reasons to celebrate the present.
Visitors can enjoy dog events, the Ironman competition, bikekhana, touch football, carnival rides, market stalls, food vendors, camping facilities and a licensed bar. Crowd favourites including the Mullet Competition and Best Piggin' Rig Competition will also return.
As the sun goes down, the celebrations will continue with live music until midnight. Ron and Deb from Mackay, together with local favourites Luella and Shayne, will provide the soundtrack to a fantastic day of community celebration.
At their heart, both Collinsville Bacon Busters and Collinsville State High School's 40th anniversary are about people. They are about the students, staff, parents, volunteers, sponsors and community members who have helped shape our school and our town over the past four decades.
So if Collinsville has ever been part of your story, make plans to return on Saturday 22nd August.
Come back to catch up with old friends. Come back to celebrate 40 years of Collinsville State High School. Come back to see how the school and community continue to thrive.
Then join us for the Boars, Bands and Bikes, live music until midnight and a community celebration that has become one of the highlights of the year.
Because if there's one thing most people know about Collinsville, it's that no matter where life takes you, it's a town you always return to.
Today’s Future Voices column is sharing a perceptive, thoughtful piece penned at St. Catherine’s by Year 12 student Finlay Farrell. The essay, written for Lions’ Youth of the Year Competition, explores Finlay’s family’s connection to tourism, community and conservation in Fiji.
Imagine yourself lying in a hammock on an Island in Fiji. Soft breeze brushing against your face, the hope and excitement to get in the endless ocean growing fonder as you see fish darting across the shallows. Hear the Fijians singing “Bula Malaya”, a traditional welcoming song to the guests lucky enough to join you on this remote haven.
This is not just an image of paradise. It’s the heart of a story. A story that today, I have the privilege of sharing with you.
This story is a trifecta of three aspects: business, community, and conservation. Like the reef itself, where every creature has its role to play, this is a mutualistic relationship that defines not only survival, but a potential for a thriving future for all.
This story isn’t just about a business or a place. It's a story about what's possible when people, purpose, and planet come together.
Fijians fish for two reasons. The first is for food to feed their families. It's a crucial source of protein. This fishing is sustainable. The second is to sell the fish. Fijians,
like us, need money to pay for the necessities of life, such as school books, toothpaste, or phone credit. This fishing has no limit and is not sustainable. When no
limit or protection is set on the amount of fishing, immense damage is inevitable.
Many Fijians may be unaware of the damage this can cause, meaning they will continue to do so without second thought. Part of solving this issue is done through education, which the business supports. An alternate revenue source must also be created. This is where tourism can be the answer.
The Barefoot Collection business operates on land owned by the community. It offers an alternative source of revenue for the community as part of anagreement for lending the land. The business has committed to hiring as many people from the community to give them individual income. This allows Fijian’s to work closer to their village, meaning spending more time at home with family, rather than having to travel to a distant mainland. A percentage of the income that the business creates is shared with the community. Now that multiple members of society have income sources, it takes immediate pressure off the reef.
A thriving ecosystem benefits both business and the community. Potential guests are more likely to visit an Island with a healthy reef. Their stay is enhanced by discovering and learning about the beautiful ecosystem beneath the surface, increasing the chance of a return visit or a recommendation. Guests are also more likely to spend their hard-earned money on an experience with a unique and jaw-dropping reef. This then creates more income for both the resort and the community. In the agreement with the community, a marine protected area, or in the Fijian language, a Tabu area, has been created. This is crucial for healthy reefs. It creates the opportunity for fish to grow and make babies that will grow up on other reefs, where some can be harvested. We know that having some protected areas will boost fishing in other areas. Tabu areas have long-term benefits for the reef, but they can also create immediate economic benefits for the community. Long-term benefits have no use to a parent needing to feed their child tomorrow.
The community learning more about the benefits of correctly managing resources and the business learning how to manage the income appropriately, both are crucial to the trifecta's success. Building trust takes time. The business and community have both individual wants and common needs. Having trust in the other and an open relationship, as well as understanding that neither partner will get everything right, is difficult but crucial in this relationship.
The environment is the only leg on this tripod that has no say and is dependent on the collaboration of the others. For now, it is thriving. Do you want to help? Whilst lying on a hammock? preferably cocktail in hand? I strongly recommend you seek out holiday destinations where tours and resort operators conduct their business in an environmentally and community-friendly, sustainable manner.
Ashlin with her parents, Stephen and Angela Styles. Photo supplied
By Chelsea Ravizza
When Ashlin Styles was named the 2026 Youth Member for Whitsundays, she saw the appointment as more than a personal achievement – it was a reminder that young people from regional communities can make a meaningful difference, regardless of their background or circumstances.
“Being named the 2026 Youth Member for Whitsundays is a significant milestone for me as this role represents far more than an individual achievement; it reflects the opportunities that are possible for young people from all backgrounds,” Ashlin said.
“As a young female of Māori descent from a regional community, this position shows me that background, identity and personal challenges do not limit what someone can achieve. I hope my appointment encourages other young people to believe in their potential, take on opportunities and recognise that their voice and experiences matter.”
Raised in the Whitsundays, Ashlin has always been encouraged to contribute to her community, and she credits much of her drive and determination to her father, who immigrated from Ireland to build a new life in Australia for his family.
“My inspiration for youth leadership comes largely from my father,” she recalled.
“His resilience, leadership and dedication to supporting our family continue to inspire me to become a leader within my own community. Alongside this, my family's unwavering support has always encouraged me to give back, take on opportunities and work towards a positive impact.”
Ashlin’s sense of identity has also been shaped by her involvement with the Kotahitanga Kapa Haka Whitsundays group, which helped her strengthen her connection to her Māori heritage.
“Being part of a community built on family, culture and connection has taught me to truly embrace and appreciate my culture,” she said.
“At times, living outside of New Zealand has left me feeling disconnected from parts of my identity. However, this group has shown me that culture is not defined by location; it lives within people, traditions and community.”
Throughout the experience, Ashlin believes she has been able to develop a stronger understanding of her own identity, and now she hopes to use her role as Youth Member to advocate for greater opportunities and support for young people living in regional areas.
“Regional communities will always face unique challenges, but they also hold strong opportunities for growth and connection,” she said.
“One issue I feel particularly passionate about is improving access to resources and opportunities for young people living in smaller communities.”
Having travelled long distances for school and seen peers miss out on sporting and extracurricular opportunities due to transport, funding and support barriers, Ashlin understands the challenges many regional families face.
“As Youth Member for the Whitsundays, I hope to advocate for greater accessibility, stronger community support and more opportunities that allow young people in regional areas to thrive and feel connected within their communities,” she said.
Beyond advocating for regional youth, Ashlin has already been working alongside other young leaders through the Justice, Police and Corrective Services, Child Safety and Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence Committee. Together, they have developed a Youth Bill aimed at improving support and reintegration pathways for people leaving custody.
“The goal of this initiative is to reduce reoffending by improving access to pre-release planning, post-release support and accountability measures that help individuals successfully reintegrate into the community,” she explained.
As she begins her term as Youth Member for Whitsundays, Ashlin hopes to be both a strong advocate and a positive role model, encouraging others to step forward, embrace opportunities and recognise the value of their own voices.
This week, Council launched the first video in our new Home Grown: Future Olympians campaign, and I couldn't be prouder of the story we're telling.
This campaign is part of our ongoing advocacy to secure Olympic and Paralympic sailing for the Whitsundays in 2032.
We know our region has the natural assets. We know we have world-class sailing conditions. We know we have a proven track record of hosting major events.
But this campaign is about showing something just as important – our people.
Over the coming months, you'll meet four young athletes from across the Whitsundays who are chasing big dreams in sailing, swimming, soccer, netball and equestrian sport. You'll hear about the early mornings, the long drives, the training sessions, the sacrifices and the determination it takes to pursue excellence while growing up in a regional community.
Our first athletes, Reid and Rory Martin, are a perfect example.
Like so many families across our region, they spend countless hours travelling, training and competing in pursuit of their goals. Their story is inspiring, but it is also familiar. Across the Whitsundays there are young people putting in the hard work every day with the support of parents, coaches, volunteers and local clubs who believe in them.
That's why this campaign matters.
When governments are considering where to invest and where to leave a lasting Olympic and Paralympic legacy, we want them to see the Whitsundays for what it really is – a region already producing talented young athletes and a community ready to embrace the opportunities that come with hosting Olympic and Paralympic sailing.
This isn't just about a few weeks of competition in 2032.
It's about the legacy that follows.
It's about projects like the Whitsunday Regional Sports Precinct, community hubs, active recreation facilities and sporting infrastructure that create opportunities for future generations. It's about giving local kids more opportunities closer to home and reducing the need for families to travel thousands of kilometres to access pathways and facilities.
The campaign will conclude with one of our region's greatest sporting success stories, David Nicholas OAM – a three-time Paralympian and Paralympic gold medallist who proves that dreams born in the Whitsundays can reach the world stage.
Council is also excited to have the support of Whitsunday Life as a campaign partner. Through a series of athlete features and print coverage, they will help us share these stories with the wider community and build momentum behind our vision for the future of the Whitsundays.
Because great athletes don't simply appear.
They are supported by families.
They are backed by communities.
And here in the Whitsundays, they are grown right here.
As we approach the end of the financial year, it’s clear that 2026 is shaping up to be another busy and productive year for the Whitsundays business community.
The Chamber has maintained strong momentum across advocacy, events, partnerships, and member engagement, with a packed calendar continuing through the second half of the year.
Recent weeks have seen strong participation in our Business Breakfast Briefings and Speed Networking events across both Cannonvale and Bowen, while the Whitsundays Wedding Trail once again showcased the incredible talent and professionalism within our local wedding industry.
Looking ahead, preparations are well underway for the Whitsunday Business Conference in August, and applications are now open for the 2026 Whitsunday Business Awards. These initiatives provide valuable opportunities for businesses to connect, learn, celebrate success, and strengthen our regional economy.
Alongside these opportunities, businesses are also preparing for several significant regulatory changes.
The Fair Work Commission’s 4.75 per cent increase to modern award minimum wages, effective from 1 July, will impact many businesses across hospitality, retail, tourism and care sectors. Many employers are already reviewing payroll structures, budgets and workforce planning to ensure compliance and manage increasing operating costs.
Businesses are also preparing for the introduction of payday super from 1 July next year, which will require superannuation to be paid at the same time as wages rather than quarterly. This change will require businesses to review payroll systems, cash flow processes and internal procedures well ahead of implementation.
Workforce attraction and retention remain key priorities for our region. The Chamber is currently contributing to Migration Queensland’s consultation on a potential Queensland Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA), ensuring regional workforce challenges and opportunities are represented in future policy discussions.
As always, the Chamber remains committed to advocating for local business, fostering connections, and helping members navigate change with confidence.
Thank you to our members, partners and business community for your ongoing support and engagement.
A local woman shared her experience to warn others to be aware of the risks of drink spiking.
A resident is warning visitors to bars and nightclubs to beware the dangers of drink spiking following a recent experience on a night out in Airlie Beach.
The young woman, who wishes to remain anonymous, was drinking rounds with friends, and friends-of-friends at a popular Airlie venue, when her memory went blank.
Next thing she remembers, she was on the floor, on her own, in the bathroom, unable to control her limbs.
“It wasn’t like being drunk,” she said.
“My mind was present and I was telling my body to move but I couldn’t lift my arms.
“I wanted to pick up my phone to call a friend but it was like I couldn’t control my body.”
The woman was bruised and sore from her attempts to get up and out of the cubicle, but thankfully was otherwise unharmed.
A friend located her, and took her home to safety.
At a later unrelated hospital visit, the young woman explained her experience to a doctor, who said her symptoms and story signalled her drink had been spiked.
“He said he sees it a lot here in Airlie,” she said.
According to statistics from the University of Newcastle, around half of drink spiking victims in Australia are aged under 24, and about one third of drink spiking incidents are associated with a sexual assault.
The Alcohol and Drug Foundation (ADF) shared that “drugs that may be used in drink spiking include depressants, such as GHB and Rohypnol. These drugs can change a person’s behaviour, causing anything from a loss of inhibition to a loss of consciousness. Drinks are spiked for a number of reasons, such as amusement, or to facilitate sexual assault or theft.”
Queensland Police Service outlined the common signs of a spiking as the following:
They recommend the following “simple, proactive steps” that can be taken to help keep yourself and your friends safe.
The ADF recommend trusting your gut if you feel you may have been spiked, and if you feel unwell, seeking medical attention immediately.
“You know your body better than anyone. Trust your instincts,” they shared.
“Early reporting can make a difference in preventing further offences and ensuring your safety,”
Certain drugs can only be detected up to 24 hours after the event- so getting tested quickly, and reporting the incident to the police can help them track down the perpetrators, prevent further offences and make our community safer.
According to the Whitsunday Conservation Council, ecotourism should prioritise conservation and education, not serve as a green label for developments that degrade the natural values they claim to protect. Photo source: Queensland Government
Concerned Conservationists have spoken up following the announcement of the Whitsunday Skyway Project.
Stage One of the proposed new attraction will feature a 1.8km cableway from Airlie Beach to the summit of Conway National Park, a luge-style ride, as well as dining and cultural experiences, special events facilities and bushwalking tracks.
A second stage, including downhill mountain bike trails, is also planned and will be subject to a future feasibility review.
"The Whitsunday Conservation Council’s policy is that National Parks exist to protect nature, not to serve as sites for commercial infrastructure," said Tony Fontes, President of the Whitsunday Conservation Council (WCC).
“Protected areas such as Conway National Park provide refuge for wildlife, safeguard ecosystems, preserve Indigenous heritage, and offer opportunities for sustainable, low-impact recreation and education.
"We are most concerned with the proposed mountain bike trail associated with the Skyway project… A thrill-seeking downhill mountain bike race is not ecotourism and has no place in a National Park.
“Ecotourism is based on conserving natural environments, minimising impacts, and fostering appreciation and understanding of nature. Mountain biking, by contrast, is primarily a recreational activity that requires trails, infrastructure, and ongoing maintenance, often resulting in vegetation clearing, soil erosion, wildlife disturbance, and habitat fragmentation. While mountain biking can occur in natural settings and may support local economies, these benefits alone do not make it ecotourism. Labelling mountain biking as ecotourism risks diluting the meaning of the term and undermining genuine nature-based conservation outcomes.”
"We are also very concerned that the current Queensland government is determined to open our National Parks to a slew of commercial interests, under the guise of ecotourism, with a “streamlined approval process” and no room for public consultation."
“National Parks are established primarily to protect biodiversity, landscapes and cultural heritage, not to serve as commercial assets. A streamlined approval process may weaken environmental scrutiny and limit consideration of cumulative impacts on sensitive ecosystems. Equally troubling is the apparent lack of meaningful public consultation, which removes the community's ability to scrutinise proposals and hold decision-makers accountable.
“Calling a development “ecotourism” does not automatically make it environmentally responsible. Too often, the term is used to market projects that involve habitat clearing, new infrastructure, increased visitation and disturbance to wildlife. Genuine ecotourism should prioritise conservation and education, not serve as a green label for developments that degrade the natural values they claim to protect.”
“The problem with undisturbed natural areas is that they don't make them anymore.”
In response to the WCC’s concerns, Member For Whitsunday Amanda Camm said:
"I respect that some members of the community have concerns about the proposed Whitsunday Skyway and the protection of Conway National Park.
“The Whitsundays' natural environment is one of our region's greatest assets, and any proposal will need to meet the relevant environmental and regulatory requirements. At the same time, the project presents an opportunity to strengthen our tourism industry, support local jobs and contribute to the region's economic growth.
“It is important that discussions around the project are informed by evidence, balanced consideration of environmental impacts and the long-term interests of the Whitsunday community."
With plans projecting that the Skyway would create 390 direct and indirect jobs, and draw 250,000 visitors annually, this debate is part of a broader ongoing discussion within our region: how to encourage tourism growth and economic investment while preserving the environmental and cultural values that make the Whitsundays so unique.
A beloved Proserpine salon has earned statewide recognition after being named one of Queensland's top hair and beauty businesses in the 2026 Queensland Day All The Best Awards.
Deb's Hair and Beauty secured second place in the Hairdresser/Barber category, placing the Proserpine business among the best in the state following a record-breaking public vote.
Deb's Hair and Beauty finished second only to Sarge's Barber on the Gold Coast, while Charlie Parrella Hairdresser in Brisbane rounded out the top three.
The result shines a spotlight on the quality of small businesses operating across the Whitsundays and reflects the strong support Deb's Hair and Beauty has built within the local community.
For Proserpine, the recognition places one of the town's longstanding local businesses firmly on the Queensland map.
The result comes as communities across the state celebrate Queensland Day and the people and businesses that help make the Sunshine State unique.
Premier Crisafulli congratulated all winners and finalists, saying their success reflected the pride Queenslanders have in supporting local businesses.
"Congratulations to every winner and to the thousands of Queenslanders who got behind them to take the crown in their category."
Photos sourced: Facebook
The Whitsundays community has grown a little larger and more diverse, with 65 people officially becoming Australian citizens at a record-breaking citizenship ceremony held at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on Tuesday.
Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins said welcoming new Australians was one of the most rewarding aspects of his role, describing the ceremony as a celebration of the many journeys that lead people to call Australia home.
"One of the very best parts of being Mayor is welcoming new Australians to our community," Mayor Collins said.
"What I love about these ceremonies is the diversity of stories they represent. Some of our newest citizens have only recently arrived in Australia, while others have been part of the fabric of our community for decades."
Among those taking the pledge were two residents who had lived in Australia for 60 years and 44 years respectively before becoming citizens.
Mayor Collins said it was particularly special to see familiar faces among the group, including a neighbour and members of the Whitsunday Regional Council family.
"We are proud to have you as part of our community and proud to call you fellow Australians," he said.
The Bruce Highway at Goorganga Plains remains under scrutiny as residents push for resurfacing works and long-term upgrades to improve safety and flood resilience. Photo source: Courier Mail
By Chelsea Ravizza
More than 700 people have signed a petition spearheaded by Proserpine resident Denise Hadley calling for urgent improvements to the Bruce Highway through Goorganga Plains between Proserpine and Bloomsbury.
Ms Hadley first raised concerns in May 2025, speaking publicly about the deteriorating condition of the road and the safety risks it posed to motorists, and exactly a year later, she launched a formal petition, urging the community to support her calls for action.
“We need action from local authorities to rectify the condition of Goorganga Plains [and] together, we can make our voices heard and ensure safe roads for everyone,” she said.
Over the past 13 months, Ms Hadley has continued to advocate for upgrades and liaise directly with the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR), describing the section of highway as dangerous and increasingly difficult to navigate. As part of her petition, she has called for the road surface to be resurfaced and for ongoing maintenance to ensure the highway remains safe for all users.
“It’s still a work in progress. I think we have achieved a lot of good stuff, [but] time will tell. We’ll fight the fight, and I will be the squeaky wheel until somebody listens to me.”
Initially announced in June 2024, the $470 million Goorganga Floodplain Upgrade is designed to improve flood resilience along the Bruce Highway between O'Connell River and Proserpine, while also delivering overtaking lanes to enhance safety and traffic flow. However, two years later, many motorists, like Ms Hadley, continue to raise concerns about the condition of the existing road surface.
TMR said it’s aware of community concerns regarding recent maintenance works at Goorganga Plains and reaffirmed its commitment to improving the condition of the Bruce Highway.
“Recent resurfacing works were impacted by unexpected rainfall, causing damage to part of the new surface,” a TMR spokesperson said.
“Priority repairs were completed under reduced speed limits to maintain safety and keep the highway operational, with final microsurfacing works scheduled for early June. The Australian and Queensland governments have committed funding to upgrade and improve flood immunity across the Goorganga floodplain, with planning underway for the Bruce Highway (Mackay-Proserpine) O’Connell River to Proserpine (Goorganga Floodplain) upgrade project.”
TMR said crews were applying two layers of micro-asphalt to improve ride quality, while overtaking lane upgrades would be delivered over coming months. Identified potholes have also been referred for priority maintenance. As part of longer-term plans for the Bruce Highway, a new section of road will be constructed adjacent to the existing alignment. The upgraded route will be built at a higher elevation and designed with flood immunity as a priority, improving reliability and safety during major weather events. TMR expects the project will be completed by 2032.
Whitsunday Regional Council welcomed planning for the jointly funded Goorganga Floodplain Upgrade and proposed overtaking lanes, describing them as important long-term projects aimed at improving safety, flood resilience and reliability along this critical section of the Bruce Highway.
A Whitsunday Regional Council spokesperson said council regularly received feedback regarding transport and road safety issues and recognised the importance of the Bruce Highway to residents, businesses and visitors.
“Whitsunday Regional Council is aware there has been ongoing community feedback and public discussion regarding conditions through sections of the Goorganga Plains area of the Bruce Highway, including concerns relating to ride quality, temporary line markings, traffic management and flood impacts following recent resurfacing works and weather events,” the spokesperson said.
Council assured it will continue advocating for infrastructure investment that improves connectivity, resilience and safety across the region.
Ms Hadley's campaign has also attracted the attention of Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox, who said he had received a “steady stream of correspondence from deeply frustrated motorists regarding the state of Goorganga Plains” in recent months.
“Immediate, practical action is absolutely required to keep motorists safe while the major upgrade is finalised,” he said.
Mr Willcox said his advocacy for improvements at Goorganga Plains dated back to his time as Whitsunday Regional Council mayor and that he understood residents' concerns.
“The Bruce Highway is the absolute economic and social spine of North Queensland,” he said.
“Every single time the Goorganga Plain floods, the Whitsundays is completely cut off from Mackay, stalling freight, strangling tourism, and leaving regional families stranded without a safe diversion route. It isolates the north from the south, delaying critical shipments across the Queensland coast, costing millions of dollars in lost productivity.
“Building true flood resilience and safety into this corridor is one of the things I am most passionate about. It is the core driving force behind my longstanding Back the Bruce campaign, and it remains an unwavering priority for my time in government."
Mr Willcox also praised Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm for her advocacy on Bruce Highway upgrades, including the Goorganga Plains overtaking lanes project.
“I have been in contact with Ms Camm to ensure that TMR addresses these immediate safety issues through the area,” he said.
“I will continue to use my platform in Canberra to fight for our Back the Bruce campaign, ensuring that when the Coalition forms government federally, we deliver the significant cash injection needed to get real investment for Dawson’s sections of the Bruce Highway.”
Ms Camm said she had also received feedback from residents and had sought an update from TMR.
“I am aware of the concerns being raised by local residents,” she said.
“The proposed Goorganga Plains Floodplain Upgrade remains an important project for the Whitsundays, and the Crisafulli Government remains committed to improving and upgrading the Bruce Highway for regional Queensland.”
Ms Hadley’s e-petition can be accessed via www.change.org/p/fix-goorganga-pains, and additional information regarding the Goorganga Floodplain Upgrade Project can be found via www.tmr.qld.gov.au.
Police are asking for information surrounding a fire that burnt two vehicles on Border Drive on June 4th. Photo source: Facebook
Police are investigating a suspicious vehicle fire at Cannonvale on 4th June.
Around 4.50am, police and emergency services were called to a Border Drive unit complex following reports of a vehicle on fire in a car park beneath the building.
Two vehicles were destroyed by the fire and were extinguished a short time later.
Two units sustained smoke damage.
All ten occupants of the units were evacuated and no one was physically injured.
Police are appealing to anyone with relevant information or vision to come forward.
A crime scene was declared at 6.25am, and investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
Quote this reference number: QP2601064871
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins has raised concerns about proposed changes to national disaster recovery funding, warning reduced support could impact the region's ability to recover from future natural disasters. Photo supplied
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins has joined growing calls for the Federal Government to reconsider proposed changes to Australia's Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), warning the reforms could leave regional communities more vulnerable following natural disasters.
The proposed overhaul would reportedly reduce the Federal Government's contribution to disaster recovery costs from 75 per cent to a 50-50 funding split with state governments, while introducing standardised funding packages across the country.
Mayor Collins said while there were aspects of the reforms he supported, including efforts to streamline funding processes and reduce red tape, any reduction in support for disaster-affected communities should be approached carefully.
"I don't often comment on Federal or state policy decisions, but the Federal Government's proposed changes to disaster recovery funding arrangements have the potential to be a significant blow to communities across regional Queensland, including the Whitsundays," he said.
The Mayor pointed to the region's recent experience with Tropical Cyclone Koji, as well as previous flooding events and Cyclone Debbie, as examples of why disaster recovery funding remains critical.
"Recovery doesn't happen overnight and in some cases continues for many years," he said.
Mayor Collins argued disaster recovery funding should be viewed as an investment rather than a cost, highlighting the significant economic contribution made by regional Queensland.
"The Greater Whitsunday region is one of Australia's most productive regional economies, generating over $140,000 in GRP per person each year — almost double the national average," he said.
"When disaster strikes, recovery funding isn't charity. It is an investment in restoring the productive capacity of regions that help drive the Australian economy."
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli has also criticised the proposed changes, expressing concern about the potential impact on regional communities and local governments.
"The Federal Government's decision to overhaul disaster recovery funding sends a clear message they couldn't care less about North Queenslanders," Premier Crisafulli said.
"Nowhere in Australia is more disaster prone than here in the North, and we need and deserve support to recover from the inevitable natural disasters that will come our way."
The Premier said the changes had raised concerns councils could face significant financial pressure when rebuilding following major events.
Mayor Collins said regional communities already contend with higher costs, ageing infrastructure and long distances, and urged the Federal Government to reconsider any reforms that could reduce support.
"I respectfully ask the Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and the Federal Government to carefully reconsider any changes that would reduce funding support for disaster-impacted communities and ensure regions like ours are not left uncertain and wondering to what level they will recover when the next major event occurs," he said.
Volunteers are being sought to help bring Between the Tides to life at Airlie Beach this July, with locals invited to support the festival while enjoying a night of live music and cultural experiences.
Music lovers are being encouraged to get involved in one of the Whitsundays’ most exciting live music events, with volunteers now being sought for Between the Tides in Airlie Beach this July.
Presented as part of the QLD Music Trails: The Reef series, the one-day festival-style experience will transform the Airlie Beach Foreshore into a vibrant celebration of music, culture, art and community on Saturday, 4th July.
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Whitsunday coastline on Ngaro Country, the event will feature a stellar line-up of Australian artists including Boy & Bear, Jem Cassar-Daley, Mid Drift, Tjaka and Kaylee West.
Organisers are calling for volunteers to help make the event a success, offering locals the chance to be part of the action while supporting a major cultural event in the region.
Volunteer roles include greeting patrons, scanning tickets, handing out wristbands and assisting with merchandise sales throughout the afternoon and evening.
There are two volunteer shift options available, and once volunteers complete their shift, they’ll receive a GA18+ wristband allowing them to enjoy the live performances and festival atmosphere afterwards.
More than just a concert, Between the Tides promises a rich cultural experience featuring workshops, sand art, cultural performances and knowledge-sharing opportunities, alongside locally crafted food, drinks and art installations.
Organisers say volunteering is a great opportunity to meet new people, support live music and experience the event from behind the scenes.
Anyone interested in volunteering can complete the application form online at qldmusictrails.com/volunteer. For further information, email ticketing@qldmusictrails.com or call 07 3010 6600.
Zonta Club of the Whitsundays members continue their quiet, hands-on work supporting women and girls through community care, education and advocacy initiatives. Photo supplied
Behind the scenes across the Whitsundays, a dedicated group of local women continues to quietly support, uplift and advocate for women and girls throughout the community.
For Zonta Club of the Whitsundays, community service is not only about fundraising events and awareness campaigns — it is about practical support, meaningful connection and creating opportunities for women and girls to thrive.
From assembling pamper packs for women in refuge accommodation and sewing cushions and blankets for local hospitals, to supporting young women through education bursaries and leadership initiatives, the club’s work spans generations and reaches many corners of the community.
President Marlene Reiffel said some of the most rewarding moments for members come from seeing how much small acts of kindness can mean to someone experiencing hardship or uncertainty.
“In regional communities, people often support one another quietly,” Marlene said.
“Sometimes it is simply letting someone know they are seen, valued and supported that can make a real difference.”
The club also continues to support domestic and family violence awareness initiatives locally, while working alongside schools, community organisations and health services to strengthen support for women and girls across the region.
Like many volunteer organisations, Zonta has seen volunteering evolve significantly in recent years, particularly as women balance careers, caregiving responsibilities and increasing cost-of-living pressures.
Despite this, the Whitsundays community continues to show remarkable generosity and community spirit.
“Women still want to contribute and give back to their communities, even if life looks busier than it once did,” Marlene said.
“We are seeing more people volunteer in flexible ways, and every contribution matters.”
For regional communities like the Whitsundays, Marlene believes local connection remains one of the most powerful forms of support.
Initiatives focused on wellbeing, education, safety, leadership and community awareness continue to create lasting impact, particularly for women and girls who may feel isolated or unsupported.
The organisation also hopes younger women in the region see the value of community involvement and the importance of women supporting women.
“We want young women and girls to feel confident in themselves and their ability to make a difference,” Marlene said.
“There is incredible strength in community connection and in lifting each other up.”
While the Whitsundays is often celebrated for its beauty and lifestyle, Marlene acknowledged regional communities still face very real challenges including housing stress, mental health concerns, financial hardship and domestic and family violence.
“These issues absolutely exist locally, even if they are not always highly visible,” she said.
“Regional women can also face additional barriers when it comes to accessing support services, which is why strong local community networks remain so important.”
As the club looks toward the future, growing membership and welcoming more local women into the organisation is a key focus.
Women across the region who are passionate about community, connection and supporting women and girls are encouraged to become involved with Zonta Club of the Whitsundays.
“You do not need special experience to join,” Marlene said.
“Just a genuine desire to give back, connect with like-minded women and make a positive difference in the community.”
Zonta Club of the Whitsundays extends a warm invitation to any women interested in learning more about to the organisation to reach out via emailing zontaclub7@hotmail.com.
Contributed with thanks to Nikki Firmin, Zonta Club of the Whitsundays Head of Community and Corporate Partnerships.
Leigh Skead founded the Proserpine Rock Wallaby Festival in 2025 to celebrate the region’s unique wildlife, local creativity and strong sense of community. Photo source: Proserpine Rock Wallaby Festival
By Chelsea Ravizza
When Leigh Skead realised that many locals were unaware of the existence of the Proserpine Rock Wallaby, she set out on the animals’ behalf, creating a festival that has since become a mark of community, conservation and local pride.
“The Proserpine Rock Wallaby is found nowhere else on earth. Nowhere,” Leigh said.
“Most people drive through Proserpine without knowing it exists, and that felt wrong to me. It felt like a story that needed telling — not just for the wallaby’s sake, but for ours.”
Founded in 2025, the Proserpine Rock Wallaby Festival quickly captured the community’s imagination, earning Community Event of the Year at the 2026 Whitsundays Regional Council Australia Day Awards and establishing itself as a vibrant celebration of local wildlife, creativity and community spirit.
Endemic to the Whitsundays, the Proserpine Rock Wallaby (Petrogale persephone) has inhabited the region’s rocky landscapes for thousands of years and has also been the focus of significant conservation efforts, including a Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service recovery program that saw more than 1,200 wallabies translocated from Hayman Island to mainland habitats between 2014 and 2017.
For Leigh, the festival’s impact extends far beyond a single weekend of celebrations – her aim is to spread awareness across the state to protect the native species.
“You cannot protect what you do not know exists,” she said.
Through initiatives such as the festival’s art exhibition and Proserpine Rock Wallaby Art Trail, visitors of all ages are encouraged to learn about the species, with families exploring the town’s wallaby sculptures and children gaining a deeper understanding of the animal’s significance to the region.
Leigh said conservation efforts in regional Queensland often rely on the dedication of a small number of wildlife officers, volunteers and community advocates, making public support and awareness crucial.
“Every region has beautiful wildlife, but the Proserpine Rock Wallaby carries our name. It belongs to us in a way that nothing else does,” she said.
“It was named for this place. It evolved here. It cannot be found anywhere else on the planet. That is an extraordinary thing to be the custodians of. A community that knows and celebrates what makes it unique is a stronger, more connected, more resilient community. The festival felt like the way to bring those two things together.”
In the festival’s inaugural year, more than 1,200 people from across the Whitsundays and beyond attended, with many leaving with a newfound appreciation for Proserpine and its unique wildlife.
Leigh’s most memorable moments include watching residents from local aged care facilities enjoy the artworks and seeing children confidently explain the significance of the Proserpine Rock Wallaby to their families after learning about the species through the festival.
“That’s the most rewarding part; watching people fall in love with Proserpine,” she reflected.
“Not the logistics or the grant applications or the planning, but those moments when the community recognises itself in what has been created.”
With the festival continuing to grow, a permanent Art Trail established throughout the town and plans for an expanded event in 2026, Leigh hopes the Proserpine Rock Wallaby will become a symbol of the Whitsundays and inspire greater environmental awareness for years to come. She also hopes the festival encourages more people to become involved in shaping their community’s future, and invites anyone interested in supporting the event to reach out to her via emailing prwf2025@gmail.com.
“The festival is built on community,” she said.
“It needs more hands, more hearts, more people who love this place and want to invest their time in something that will outlast all of us.”
Front - Left to Right: Brendon Nothard (Manager), Glenn Clarke (Chairman), Tony Large. Back - Left to Right: Bessie Orr, Justin Blair, Luke Valmadre, William (Bill) Blair, Lindsay Altmann.
For 100 years, CANEGROWERS have provided a professional and cohesive voice to growers across Queensland’s sugarcane regions. The not-for-profit public company has dedicated a century to supporting the best possible outcomes for cane growing business and industry, providing advocacy and advice to individual growers, family businesses and corporate enterprise, whilst affecting larger policy change across the country.
Locally Proserpine CANEGROWERS Co-operative will be celebrating the special occasion, commemorating its own unique past as a major tropical agricultural player, where cane growing is woven into the fabric of history, culture and lifestyle.
State-wide, CANEGROWERS have presented commemorative initiatives to celebrate the wonderful work that has been done over the past century. Legends of Cane Country celebrates the contributions of farmers throughout CANEGROWER’s history, inviting community nominations to recognise individuals whose leadership and commitment have made a real difference in their district.
The organisation has also produced ‘Voices of Cane Country’, a series of filmed conversations with long serving growers, as each share what a life in cane has meant to them with the first videos already available online.
Proserpine’s own rich history of sugar farming dates back to 1897, when the Proserpine Mill was constructed. In 1926 Queensland CANEGROWERS Council formed, marking the beginning of the CANEGROWERS organisation.
In 2004, Proserpine’s own independent CANEGROWERS Co-Operative formed. This move made all regional sugarcane farming offices independent, but every co-op will join together to celebrate the centennial, paying homage as a community to the incredible work that’s been done over the years by regional cane farmers.
As part of celebrations, Proserpine CANEGROWERS Co-Operative are putting on a special historical display at the 2026 Show Whitsunday. The display will feature an array of historical photos and machinery, demonstrating a timeline of evolving technology and dedicated hard work.
The celebrations will highlight the significance of local industry, and demonstrate that advancements made in Sugarcane farming here in Australia have always rippled outward, and had global influence.
“The big thing was harvesting,” explained Proserpine Manager Brendon Nothard.
“The Australian sugarcane industry was the world leader when it came to mechanisation of harvesting. They came up with the designs for the first sugarcane harvesters.”
Such advancements and adoption of technologies occurred in across Queensland, including Proserpine, where a fruitful sugarcane industry has endured despite challenging conditions.
“We have a highly variable weather system up here. This is one of the most variable climates in Australia and Australia is one of the most variable climates in the world.” Brendon shared, assuring that despite such challenges, Proserpine continues to work hard to produce sugarcane.
“We are a grower owned organisation. Run by growers and owned by growers. Everything we do here is informed by what growers need most.”
Looking forward, a big theme concerning sugarcane farming’s future is renewable energy.
“The industry is currently focusing on the use of both ethanol and sustainable aviation fuel.” Brendon explained
Ethanol is a renewable biofuel produced from biomass (corn, sugarcane, waste) which reduces greenhouse gas emissions by roughly 44-52% compared to gasoline.
Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is an alternative fuel made from non-petroleum feedstocks that reduces air pollution from air transportation. It can be blended with other fuels. These sustainable fuels present huge potential for the industry, decreasing the reliance on externally imported oil.
From the past, looking into the future, CANEGROWERS exists for one simple reason: to give Queensland sugarcane growers a strong, united voice.
canegrowers.com.au
Council is introducing changes to parking across some of our busiest areas including Airlie Beach, Cannonvale Foreshore, Shingley Beach and Shute Harbour, and I want to explain why these changes matter.
As our region continues to grow, we need to make sure parking in our busiest precincts works better for everyone — improving access, supporting local businesses and making it easier for residents and visitors to move around our town centres.
It’s about making parking fairer, easier and more practical for everyone who uses these areas. We want parking to work better for locals, visitors, workers and businesses as these areas continue to grow.
One of the biggest frustrations we hear is people driving around Airlie Beach or Cannonvale struggling to find a park while some vehicles sit in premium spots all day. That doesn’t help local businesses, it doesn’t help customers and it doesn’t help traffic flow.
The reality is our region is growing rapidly and parking demand is increasing. Council has a responsibility to manage that growth properly and make sure our busiest precincts continue to function well into the future.
The new strategy keeps free short-term parking in place while improving parking availability in high-demand areas so more people can access local businesses and services throughout the day.
There will also continue to be free long-term parking available at Waterson Way, only a short walk from Main Street, along with affordable permit options for workers and regular users.
Importantly, parking infringement costs are being reduced under the new approach, and during the transition period Council will issue warning notices first to help educate the community before full implementation begins.
We’re also improving parking technology through smarter monitoring and easier payment options like the EasyPark app, making the system simpler and more convenient for users.
At the end of the day, this is about improving access, supporting local business customer turnover and planning properly for the future growth of the Whitsundays.
Smarter Parking. Better Access.
Businesses across the Whitsundays are being encouraged to join the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry as part of the launch of the Chamber’s new 2026–27 membership program.
New members who join by 30th June will automatically go into the draw to win a two-week advertising package on the Airlie Hill Billboard, providing valuable exposure for their business in one of the region’s busiest locations.
The Chamber’s updated membership structure has been designed to better support the diverse needs of the Whitsundays business community, with tailored membership options now available for businesses, associations, wedding industry operators, and market vendors.
Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Allan Milostic said the Chamber continued to strengthen its role as the leading voice and connector for local business.
“The Chamber exists to support local businesses through advocacy, networking, promotion, education, and collaboration,” Mr Milostic said.
“We want businesses of every size and stage to feel part of a strong and connected business community, whether they are a start-up, market vendor, tourism operator, professional service, or established employer.”
The 2026–27 membership program includes:
Business Advanced ($799)*
For businesses seeking greater visibility, stronger networks, and a more active role in Chamber initiatives, with priority access to services and opportunities.
Business Basics ($299)*
Ideal for businesses wanting to stay connected, access resources, and participate in Chamber programs.
Association Partner ($299)*
Designed for member-based organisations and industry bodies, offering benefits for executive teams and discounts for their own members.
Subscriber ($99)*
Suitable for individuals or businesses wanting to stay informed and occasionally attend events.
Tailored for businesses operating within the wedding sector, with enhanced promotional support to help reach domestic and international markets.
Essential Tier ($299)*
The foundation membership for Whitsunday wedding professionals.
Elevate Tier ($549)*
Designed for vendors looking to refine their brand and increase their market reach.
Market Vendor Chamber Subscription ($99)*
A new membership category designed to bridge the gap between casual stallholders and established local businesses, combining the credibility, connections, and advocacy of the Chamber with exclusive benefits linked to Chamber-managed Markets.
Mr Milostic said the introduction of the new Market Vendor membership category recognised the important role local markets play in supporting entrepreneurship, tourism, and small business growth across the region.
“Markets are often where great businesses begin, and we want those operators to feel connected, supported, and represented within the broader business community,” he said.
Businesses interested in joining the Chamber and entering the Airlie Hill Billboard giveaway are encouraged to sign up before 30th June.
For more information or to become a member, visit https://www.whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au/join/
Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce & Industry.
Photo source: Facebook
A frightening moment on Shute Harbour Road has ended in relief and gratitude after a small dog narrowly avoided tragedy and was safely returned home thanks to the kindness of several local residents.
The dog, affectionately known as Waffles, was spotted darting dangerously near traffic close to the Pet Resort area, with motorists forced to brake suddenly to avoid hitting the adventurous pup.
Local resident Neri Tyson stopped to help after Waffles was found wandering near the busy roadway. Witnesses later described the terrifying moment the dog ran in front of traffic, with one motorist saying they believed the dog had gone underneath a coach travelling along the road.
Fortunately, the bus driver slowed to check on the animal, and in an incredible stroke of luck, Waffles emerged unharmed.
Following efforts by Ms Tyson, and concerned community members online, Waffles was soon reunited safely with his grateful family.
Many locals joked the tiny escape artist may have earned himself a new nickname — “Lucky” — after surviving such a close call.
The happy ending has once again highlighted that Whitsunday neighbours are always willing to step in and help when it matters most.
Lucy Scarrott is receiving treatment in Brisbane for an aggressive form of brain cancer. Photo supplied
When four-year-old Lucy Scarrott was diagnosed with an aggressive brain cancer, her family's world changed forever. Now, the Whitsunday community is stepping up to help, with Whitsunday Escape launching a fundraising raffle that offers the chance to win a luxury five-night sailing holiday while supporting Lucy's ongoing treatment and recovery journey.
When life takes a turn for the worse for the people who you care about, your first thought is “how can I help?”.
This is exactly what happened to the close-knit team at Whitsunday Escape on hearing the news that four-year-old Lucy Scarrott – sister to two-year-old Ella, and daughter to well- known Whitsunday boating community members, Cat and Andy Scarrott – has been diagnosed with medulloblastoma – an aggressive form of brain cancer.
Determined to make a difference in these darkest of times, and with the support of one of their long-term investors, the bareboat company has launched a raffle for a five-night charter on a brand-new luxury boat.
Sailed fresh from the factory in Asia to the Whitsunday Escape base at the Coral Sea Marina in Airlie Beach, by owners Geoff St Clair and Kim Mitchell, Sidetracked breezed through headwinds and sea states that would have literally stopped other boats in their tracks.
Under normal circumstances Sidetracked would be set straight to work in the Whitsunday Escape fleet where Mr St Clair is a repeat investor, but on this occasion her first ‘charter’ is to raise money for the Scarrott family.
“Lucy’s parents Cat and Andy are dear friends of the Whitsunday Escape family and their whole world has been turned upside down by a heartbreaking diagnosis no parent should have to face,” Whitsunday Escape Managing Director, Jaclyn Watson, said.
“Both parents have had to give up their jobs and relocate to Brisbane so that Lucy – who has already undergone major brain surgery at the Queensland Children’s Hospital and now faces months of intensive radiation and chemotherapy – can receive daily treatment for an entire year in a fight to survive.
“We may not be able to wave a magic wand and make Lucy’s diagnosis disappear, but one thing we can do, thanks to Geoff and Kim’s generosity, is take some of the immense financial pressure off, so that they can focus on what matters most, which is being together and supporting Lucy through this battle”.
Winning the holiday of a lifetime, sailing the Whitsundays aboard Sidetracked, and being a part of Lucy’s support team, is as simple as buying a ticket through Raffletix, where proceeds will be administered to the Scarrott family via the Proserpine Lions Club.
Only 1,000 tickets are available at a cost of just $50 each, with the winner set to sail away on a charter worth $11,000, and priceless in terms of the experiences it will deliver that money simply cannot buy.
The raffle runs from today until 10.30am on July 31st.
Busta is a soft-hearted young Staffordshire cross with a calm, affectionate nature and a strong desire to be close to his people. At approximately one year old, this medium-sized dog has already shown himself to be an easygoing and loyal companion, well suited to a variety of homes.
Originally found in Ayr, Busta has quickly won over his carers with his gentle temperament and “big sook” personality. He enjoys affection, reassurance, and simply being near those he trusts. He walks well on a lead and has displayed a non-aggressive nature, making him a promising fit for a family environment.
Busta is considered suitable for homes with children and appears to interact well with other dogs, although further assessment is ongoing. His compatibility with cats has not yet been tested.
His ideal home would include secure fencing and an owner—whether a family, couple, or individual—seeking a loving, steady companion.
Busta is desexed, vaccinated, and up to date with all veterinary care. His adoption fee is $400.
To express your interest in adopting Busta, please message Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc and include your name, phone number, and “Busta.”
Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc is a foster-based organisation dedicated to placing animals into safe and caring homes.
The Mt Challenger Wind Farm has opened applications for its Community Fund, providing financial support to not-for-profit organisations, community groups and sporting clubs across the Proserpine and Bowen region.
Applications will be open from 1st June to 12th July 2026, with $40,000 available in this funding round. Eligible groups can apply for grants of up to $10,000 to support projects that deliver meaningful and lasting benefits to local communities.
The fund is designed to support initiatives within 30 kilometres of the proposed project, encouraging participation, strengthening local connections, and delivering positive outcomes for communities including Proserpine and Bowen.
Alinta Energy Chief Development Officer Andres Maasing said the program reflects a commitment to supporting local priorities during the project’s development phase.
“We recognise there are diverse views about the proposed Mt Challenger Wind Farm and respect the strength of community sentiment,” Mr Maasing said.
“Through this funding, our focus is to provide practical support to local organisations delivering important work on the ground - from youth programs and community events to environmental initiatives and essential upgrades.”
Mr Maasing said that if the Mt Challenger Wind Farm project proceeds, as well as supporting QLD’s energy supply and grid, it could bring meaningful investment into the region – including construction and operations jobs, local procurement, potential road and infrastructure upgrades, environmental enhancement programs and support for community initiatives.
The Community Fund will prioritise projects that demonstrate clear community benefit, encourage local engagement, are sustainable beyond the grant period, and show strong governance. Eligible initiatives or activities may span community, education, employment, environmental, and youth sporting and interest group undertakings leading to positive social and economic participation outcomes.
Applications are only accepted online at www.mtchallengerwindfarm.com/communityfund.
For more information, please contact powertoyou@alintaenergy.com.au or 0497 928 036 (weekdays 9am–5pm).
Little ones could check out the fire trucks and learn about the firefighter’s work.
Firefighters and their families gathered to wish the Proserpine Fire and Rescue Station a happy 75th anniversary this weekend, meeting at the station on Saturday 30th May to celebrate.
Little ones were delighted by demonstrations, fire trucks and equipment on display, whilst moving speeches and much deserved awards were delivered to firefighters in front of their proud loved ones. A commemorative honour board was also unveiled, recognising the 158 firefighters who have served in the brigade over the years.
Auxiliary Captain Brian Little led proceedings, reflecting on his 39 years with the station.
“In this ever-changing community environment, one thing has stayed static and that is the commitment, dedication and skill level of the local men and women that commit to being an auxiliary fire fighter at QFD Proserpine,” he shared.
“The auxiliary fire fighters at all hours commit to turning out to help the community in a time of need with very little acknowledgement or thanks.”
“The one thing that was evident from my very first day as an auxiliary fire fighter was the team moral, respect, passion and inclusive family environment created. These attributes are still evident in 2026.”
As part of the commemoration, Former Auxiliary Firefighter Lieutenant Captain Frank “Bob” Robert Spencer was asked to reflect on the history of the Proserpine brigade.
He shared that the Proserpine brigade crew has always had great camaraderie, making the station “The envy of other auxiliary stations,” explaining that “You had to have a sense of humour.”
“Humour was sometimes used at debriefs to destress and unwind after some stressful callbacks,” Bob recounted.
“The drills were taken quite seriously, but sometimes at the end of drills one crew would sneak up on the other crew while they were packing up and a water fight would ensue.
“We would all arrive back at the station with both fire appliances and crews soaking wet. The Chief would take one look, shake his head and walk away.”
“I am proud and grateful for the small part I played in the history of the Proserpine Fire Brigade,” Bob shared.
“I am thinking of all those I served with who are no longer with us. They were good men who were also proud of the service.”
Superintendent Sven Diga of the Townsville Division/Mackay Command highlighted that ‘skill, teamwork and dedication is what this team prides themselves on’.
“It has been a sanctuary of safety, a hub of courage and a cornerstone of serving the Proserpine community, as well as a recognised leader in advanced road safety response/training,” Sven said.
Mayor Ry Collins also reflected on the service, following the event.
“For 75 years, generations of firefighters have answered the call when our community has needed them most,” he said.
“Through cyclones, floods, grassfires, road crashes and countless emergencies, they have stood ready to protect lives and property across the Whitsundays.
“What makes regional communities special is that the people who turn up in our toughest moments are often our neighbours, mates, work colleagues and fellow community members - even a few former shire Mayors! Their willingness to serve others deserves enormous respect.”
MP for Whitsunday Amanda Camm highlighted the importance of acknowledging the support systems and families, as well as the firefighters in the service:
“Today is a celebration and a recognition for all of those who have served our Proserpine community as an auxiliary firefighter, and also their families… but it’s also really important to take time to recognise the families who have also contributed in supporting their partners,” she said.
She expressed her gratitude for the whole crew.
“Their lives are disrupted in ways others don't understand- we thank them and congratulate them.”
Whitsunday communities have always been built on volunteers, local clubs, community groups and people willing to put their hand up to make a difference.
Whether it’s a sporting club running weekend games, volunteers organising a community event, local artists creating opportunities for others, or service groups raising money for important causes — these organisations are the backbone of our region.
That’s why Council continues to strongly support community organisations through grants, sponsorships, donations and in-kind assistance right across the Whitsundays.
Every month Council provides support to dozens of local groups helping deliver events, programs and opportunities that directly benefit our communities.
In May alone, Council approved support for organisations and initiatives across the region including the Whitsunday Songwriter Festival, Archaic Gathering Festival of Arts, Creative Connections Whitsunday, Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network, Bowen River Rodeo and Campdraft, local swimming clubs, campdraft associations, school P&C groups, arts organisations, community BBQs, sporting clubs and junior elite athletes.
Importantly, this support reaches all corners of our Whitusnday region from Bowen to Collinsville, Proserpine, Airlie Beach, Cannonvale, Dingo Beach and Mt Coolon.
Council’s Regional Arts Development Fund partnership with the Queensland Government is another important example, helping support local arts, culture and creative industries since 1994. These programs help create opportunities for regional artists while also strengthening local events and tourism experiences.
But beyond the dollars themselves, what this support really represents is Council backing the people who help bring our communities to life.
These groups create connection, strengthen community spirit, support local businesses, give young people opportunities, improve mental health outcomes and make the Whitsundays a better place to live.
Council understands that many volunteer organisations are facing increasing costs and growing pressures, particularly in regional areas, which is why we remain committed to supporting community-led initiatives wherever possible.
When local organisations succeed, our whole region benefits.
I want to sincerely thank every volunteer, committee member, coach, organiser and community leader across the Whitsundays for the work you do behind the scenes every single week.
You help make this region what it is.
The Whitsunday region’s business community is set to take centre stage once again, with applications now open for the 2026 Whitsunday Business Awards.
Delivered through a collaborative partnership between the Bowen Chamber of Commerce, the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Whitsunday Regional Council, the awards celebrate outstanding achievement, innovation, leadership, and contribution across the Whitsundays business community.
This year, James Cook University joins the program as Principal Partner, reinforcing its commitment to supporting regional growth, innovation, education, and the future of business across the Whitsundays.
The 2026 awards program features categories recognising excellence across businesses of all sizes and sectors, alongside individual leadership, and employee recognition awards.
Business Legends of the Whitsundays – Celebrating businesses or individuals that have achieved long-term success and made an enduring impact on the region.
Best of the Whitsundays: Business of the Year – Recognising outstanding businesses that set the benchmark for excellence, innovation, and leadership. Includes Small Business and Medium to Large Business award divisions.
Business Leader of the Year – Recognising inspiring leaders whose vision, dedication, and influence have driven exceptional business and regional success. Categories include Small Business and Medium to Large Business divisions.
Rising Star: Employee, Apprentice or Trainee – Highlighting exceptional individuals who have demonstrated outstanding growth, dedication, and contribution.
Customer Service Excellence Award – Celebrating businesses and individuals who consistently go above and beyond to deliver outstanding customer experiences. Categories include Small Business and Medium to Large Business divisions.
Community Champion Award – Recognising businesses and organisations making a meaningful difference through community contributions and initiatives.
Think Big Award – Recognising businesses or individuals demonstrating bold vision and turning opportunity into action through innovation, expansion, investment, and future-focused thinking, including opportunities connected to Brisbane 2032.
Applications are open to businesses and individuals operating across the Whitsunday region, with judging undertaken by respected regional and external experts to ensure an independent and robust assessment process.
Key Dates
Key dates for the 2026 Whitsunday Business Awards include:
Businesses and individuals must apply directly, with no third-party nominations accepted.
Since opening its doors on 5 June 2012, the locally owned and operated branch has grown from a community vision into a vital part of the Whitsundays, delivering face-to-face banking services while returning hundreds of thousands of dollars to local schools, sporting clubs, community groups and events.
For many locals walking into Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine, there’s a familiar face ready to help — and chances are, Kylie already understands the Whitsundays lifestyle and community spirit that make the region so special.
A proud fifth-generation local, Kylie has recently returned home after spending time living and working across Queensland, as well as overseas in England and Switzerland. But despite her travels, she says nothing compares to coming back to her roots.
“I feel blessed to have grown up in such a beautiful part of the world,” Kylie said.
“After living in different places, including overseas, nothing compares to being back in the Whitsundays raising my three children in this stunning paradise we call home.”
Kylie brings extensive experience across home loans, business banking, insurance and everyday banking, helping customers navigate everything from simple transactions to major life decisions. Whether it’s buying a first home, refinancing, growing a business or reviewing insurance, she is passionate about finding the right solution for every customer.
At Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine, banking is about relationships and Kylie says that personal connection is what she loves most about her role.
“I love that our bank genuinely supports the local community,” she said. “It makes coming to work each day even more rewarding because we really do make a difference right here in our region.”
Known for her approachable nature and strong local knowledge, Kylie prides herself on building long-term relationships and being someone customers can rely on.
“When you bank with Kylie, you’re not just another number,” Branch Manager Amanda Anderson said. “She genuinely cares about helping people achieve their goals and making sure they feel supported every step of the way.”
That community focus extends well beyond banking services. As part of Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine, Kylie is backed by a unique community banking model that reinvests profits directly back into the Whitsundays through sponsorships, grants and support for local clubs, schools, and events.
For Kylie, that local impact makes the role even more meaningful.
“Supporting locals and seeing that flow-on effect in the community is something really special,” she said.
The branch continues to find new ways to support and showcase the local community. One exciting new initiative is the launch of a Community Creative Space inside the branch, developed in partnership with Creative Connections Whitsundays.
The space features a rotating exhibition of works from emerging and established local artists, giving them an opportunity to showcase and sell their work in a welcoming community setting. The inaugural artist, Desma Munro, is displaying expressive realist paintings inspired by Australia’s landscapes and colourful birdlife.
Community support also extends to sponsorships and the branch’s popular Community BBQ Trailer, which is available for local events and fundraisers. Sponsorship applications are now open for local initiatives and community groups.
“Every account, loan or service with us helps build a stronger local community,” Amanda said.
Locals wanting friendly, face-to-face banking support can visit Kylie, Amanda and the team at Whitsunday Plaza Cannonvale, Monday to Friday, 9:30am–4:00pm (closed 1:00pm–2:00pm), call (07) 4948 3599 or email cannonvale&proserpinemailbox@bendigoadelaide.com.au
The Tiny Homes Project is building accommodation for homeless women over 55, thanks to huge fundraising efforts from the community.
The Tiny Homes Project, a not-for-profit Whitsunday Housing Company, is making great strides on its mission to build 4 tiny homes for unhoused women aged 55 and over, with businesses and organisations from across the region pitching in with their support.
In 2023, following a standup pitch to the full membership of the Whitsunday Regional Council, including the past Mayor, the Tiny Homes Project was selected and donated a block of land in Proserpine.
Later, alongside volunteers gathering donations from the community, Fundraising Coordinator Sandy Clark set up meetings with major local building suppliers over a 10-day period, seeking complimentary or discounted products to support the build.
“This was to be our final step to work within our budgets and to keep our costs as low as possible so that our donations would spread as far as possible for this worthy cause,” Sandy shared.
“This was the last phase of our efforts to engender true community involvement and this time from the leading build suppliers in our region, our builder and COO of our charity, [the meetings] were most fruitful.”
“On 17th November 2025 Stratco, Proserpine, came in to build the steel cyclone rated security fencing on our block,” Sandy shared.
“On 2nd May we had some movement with heavy machinery on the site and preparation of the ground, and the stumps went in soon after. Thanks to Pilchers Cement for their generous sponsorship of all of our concrete.”
“Around May 17th our sub-flooring went in, bollards, then trusses, thanks to Replas, Porters and Bowen Truss & Framing special pricing, and we were off to a good start.
“Wowee, we couldn’t have done this without our many volunteers too, who we thank so sincerely - including massive support from Fiona Donnellan and Paula Wronski on fundraising efforts.”
According to Sandy, the community has shown a huge amount of love for the women they are working to house.
“No one can be certain about anything in life, and peoples' fortunes can change in a heartbeat,” Sandy shared.
“There’s nothing worse than being on the streets and unsafe. The greatest, most valued gift is a home and this project has touched the hearts of the Whitsundays community, gaining a massive contribution from people with a heart for the vulnerable.”
Head to the Tiny Homes project’s newly expanded website, developed in donated time from Kylie at Rabbit Warren Creative Services, and see the massive range of donors who leant their support to the project by visiting https://www.tinyhomesproject.com.au/
Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi
The Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network hosted its monthly breakfast BBQ in Cannonvale last week. The morning featured guest speakers Ashlee Lade from EvoPrime Fitness and State Member Amanda Camm.
Ashlee spoke on the importance of nutrition and diet.
“The three most important principles for a healthy diet are protein, incorporating different types of nutrients and fasting,” she said.
State Member Amanda Camm spoke on personal family mental health struggles, having lost her father to suicide.
“Not only am I a state Member, I’m also the Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence,” she said.
“I thought I’d take the opportunity to say it is everyone’s business. If you’ve got a mate you’re concerned about, we have support right here in the Whitsundays. We’ve got Whitsunday counselling service, we’ve got MensLine, and we’ve got incredible outreach across the community.”
CEO Matt Stokes re-iterated the most important messages when it comes to supporting people through mental struggles.
“Our message is simple. Suicide prevention is everyone’s job,” he said.
“On a basic level – if you’re struggling, the best thing you can do is find a friend. The worst thing you can do is isolate. Encourage everyone to make sure they keep talking when they’re going through something.”
The Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Breakfasts are hosted on the last Friday of every month at the Shirtfront Solutions Carpark at 6.30pm. All members of the community are welcome.
If you are struggling or know someone who may be – don’t hesitate to call Lifeline on 13 11 14 right away.
Students at local schools came together for the b kinder Summit, a national initiative where student leaders engage in interactive and collaborative learning. Photo source: Facebook
Last week nearly 80 students from Proserpine State High School, Bowen State High School, Whitsunday Christian College and St Catherine’s College came together for the annual ‘b kinder Summit, a gathering designed to empower young leaders across the region.
The b kinder Summit was created to empower young leaders, and inspire them to spark thought, ignite passion, and encourage meaningful action within their schools and wider communities.
Throughout the day, students were invited to reflect on the values of empathy, compassion, resilience and confidence, and how these qualities can be actively applied in everyday life.
The summit challenged students to consider the real impact of kindness as a leadership tool. Participants left feeling not only inspired, but also equipped with practical ideas and a renewed purpose to foster positive change within their school environments.
A key focus of the program was the role young people can play in shaping inclusive, supportive communities. By encouraging students to lead with empathy and courage, the Summit reinforced the idea that leadership is not defined by position, but by action and influence.
The event featured presenter Adam Mostogl from Illuminate Education, alongside b kinder ambassador Tessa Jolley, who both delivered engaging and thought-provoking sessions that resonated strongly with attendees.
We thank the b kinder Foundation for organising such an impactful opportunity for local students, and for continuing to invest in the development of compassionate, capable young leaders across the region.
Whitsunday Regional Council met in Bowen this week to discuss key projects, community funding, future planning initiatives and service updates shaping the region’s growth and development. Photo source: Facebook
Key projects, funding support and future planning were front and centre at Whitsunday Regional Council’s fifth meeting of 2026, held this week in Bowen.
Councillors tackled a broad agenda covering infrastructure, parking, community grants and operational updates, with several decisions aimed at improving liveability and supporting long-term growth across the region.
One of the major items adopted was Council’s Quarter Three Operational Plan report, providing a snapshot of achievements, financial performance and progress toward delivering priorities outlined in the 2025/26 Operational Plan. The report highlighted the steady pace of work continuing across the region despite growing demands on local services and infrastructure.
Future improvements for Bowen’s Yasso Point precinct also took a step forward, with councillors adopting the Yasso Point Concept Site Plan. The plan will help guide future capital works and broader precinct planning, with a focus on enhancing the area for residents and visitors alike.
Parking and accessibility in busy commercial areas were another major discussion point. Council endorsed proposed amendments to Subordinate Local Law No. 5.1 (Parking) 2014, paving the way for a new commercial parking approach designed to improve turnover, accessibility and compliance outcomes across key business precincts.
Residents were also reminded that water meter readings across the region will begin from June 15th, with Council encouraging property owners to ensure meters are accessible and free from obstructions.
Several local organisations received a welcome funding boost through Council grants programs. Special Project Grants were awarded to Whitsunday Kyokushin Karate Proserpine Inc, Proserpine District Canegrowers Cooperative, Bowen Rugby Union Club Inc and Bowen Flexi Care Inc, while the Proserpine Junior Sporting Complex Association received a Sport and Recreation Facility Management Grant.
Regional Arts Development Fund grants were also approved for the Whitsunday Songwriter Festival, Archaic Gathering Festival of Arts and Creative Connections Whitsunday, supporting the region’s growing arts and cultural sector.
Councillors also received updates from Community Services and Utilities, outlining the ongoing behind-the-scenes work helping deliver essential services across the Whitsundays.
Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi
Community members gathered at Proserpine Entertainment Centre this week to mark National Reconciliation Week 2026 with unity, reflection and respect.
Led by Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins, the event brought together local leaders, students, families and community members for a moving morning of cultural recognition and shared commitment to reconciliation.
At the heart of the ceremony was a powerful Welcome to Country and Traditional Smoking Ceremony conducted by Robert Congoo from Yooribaya Cultural Experiences, alongside student representatives from local schools. The event also featured a ceremonial flag raising and student speakers, reinforcing the importance of education and community involvement in shaping a more united future.
One of the morning’s standout moments came when Proserpine State High School’s Seagrass Theatre group performed a stirring rendition of Beds Are Burning, this year’s Voices for Reconciliation 2026 anthem. The iconic Midnight Oil song, with its enduring message of justice and recognition for First Nations peoples, resonated strongly with attendees and reflected the week’s central message: that reconciliation requires action from all Australians.
This year’s National Reconciliation Week theme, All In, calls on Australians to commit wholeheartedly to reconciliation every day, not just during a designated week of reflection. It is a reminder that reconciliation is not passive, nor is it solely the responsibility of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Rather, it requires collective participation, understanding and genuine commitment from communities across the country.
The theme also acknowledges the ongoing work still required to advance the rights, voices and recognition of First Nations Australians. Reconciliation Australia describes All In as a challenge to move beyond symbolic gestures and into meaningful action, ensuring reconciliation becomes embedded in the nation’s culture, institutions and everyday relationships.
National Reconciliation Week is observed annually from May 27th to June 3rd, commemorating two significant milestones in Australia’s reconciliation journey: the 1967 referendum and the 1992 Mabo decision. Together, these dates represent both progress achieved and the continuing journey toward equality and recognition.
The visual identity for NRW 2026 was created by renowned Gumbaynggirr and Bundjalung artist Otis Hope Carey. His artwork, Gaagal — meaning “Ocean” — symbolises people from all walks of life moving together like flowing tides and rippling water, united in the pursuit of change and healing.
In Proserpine, that message was brought to life not only through ceremony and song, but through the visible participation of young people, local leaders and residents standing side by side.
As communities across the Whitsundays continue to embrace reconciliation, events like this demonstrate the power of coming together: listening, learning and committing to a shared future built on respect.
The BreastScreen Queensland mobile service is visiting Bowen, Proserpine and Cannonvale over the coming months, making free breast screening more accessible for locals. Photo source: Facebook
Women across the Whitsundays are being encouraged to take advantage of a free and potentially lifesaving health service as the BreastScreen Queensland mobile bus visits the region over the coming months.
Currently stationed in Bowen until Friday, 12th June, the mobile screening service is helping women in rural and regional communities access breast cancer screening closer to home.
Following its posting in Bowen, the service will then travel to Proserpine from 15th June to 15th July before arriving in Cannonvale from 16th July to 4th September.
Breast screening appointments are free, take around 20 minutes, and do not require a doctor’s referral. Health professionals say regular screening is one of the most effective ways to detect breast cancer early — often before symptoms appear — significantly improving treatment outcomes and survival rates.
Women aged 50 to 74 are strongly encouraged to have a breast screen every two years.
Women are advised to see their doctor before making an appointment if they have noticed any changes to their breasts, are aged 40 to 49 or over 75, or if they have had breast cancer within the past five years.
Health staff say preparing for an appointment is simple. Patients are asked not to wear deodorant or talcum powder on the day, as these products can affect the breast x-rays. Wearing a top with pants or a skirt is recommended so that the patient can remain comfortably dressed during the screening process. Patients are also encouraged to arrive 10 minutes early to complete paperwork and bring their Medicare card if they have one.
During the appointment, the friendly staff will guide the patient through each step of the process. After completing consent forms and questionnaires, a trained radiographer will explain how the screening works before taking at least two x-rays of each breast. The machine presses the breast between two plates to capture clear images, which can feel uncomfortable but should not be painful. Patients can ask for the procedure to stop at any time if needed.
Following the appointment, the x-rays are reviewed by specially trained doctors, with most patients receiving their results within four weeks. According to BreastScreen Queensland, around 95 out of every 100 women receive a normal result. About five women out of 100 are asked to return for follow-up tests, although most of these women are ultimately found not to have breast cancer.
Community members are being encouraged to book an appointment for themselves or support a loved one to do the same.
Bookings can be made by calling 13 20 50 or online through the BreastScreen Queensland website: https://www.breastscreen.qld.gov.au/make-an-appointment
Tourism Whitsunday CEO Tim Booth, Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP and Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins. Photo supplied
The Whitsunday Skyway Project has reached a crucial step in its progression following the announcement this week that it is now a Prescribed Project.
This move will enable the exciting eco-tourism project to coordinate and streamline approvals.
Stage One of the new attraction will feature a 1.8km cableway from Airlie Beach to the summit of Conway National Park, a luge-style ride, as well as dining and cultural experiences, special events facilities and bushwalking tracks.
A second stage, including downhill mountain bike trails, is also planned and will be subject to a future feasibility review.
The transformative tourism project is expected to create up to 390 direct and indirect jobs during construction and at least 80 direct and indirect operational jobs, significantly bolstering the Whitsunday regional economy and strengthening North Queensland’s position as a premier tourism destination.
It is expected to attract over 250,000 visitors annually.
Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm said the project will showcase the region’s beauty.
“This is game-changing eco-tourism infrastructure and innovation that positions Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays as the Heart of the Reef,” Minister Camm said.
Australian Adventure Tourism Group Executive Chair Elizabeth Hackett said the declaration was a game-changer for the project.
“Prescribed Project status is a major milestone for the Whitsunday Skyway, and we are incredibly grateful for the Queensland Government’s support,” Ms Hackett said.
“This status gives us the assurance we need to continue working with our partners and stakeholders to deliver this transformative project."
Once completed, the Whitsunday Skyway will contribute to Queensland’s reputation as a world-class tourism destination, offering visitors an unforgettable experience of the region’s natural wonders.
Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie said the declaration reflected the Crisafulli Government’s commitment to supporting transformative projects for Queensland.
“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to showcase the natural beauty of the Whitsundays in an innovative way, Deputy Premier Bleijie said.
“Declaring the Whitsunday Skyway Project as a Prescribed Project is a clear message to the people of Queensland that we are serious about delivering infrastructure that creates jobs and drives economic growth.
“By streamlining approvals, we’re helping the consortium get shovels in the ground sooner, creating real jobs for Queenslanders and delivering a world-class attraction that will draw visitors from around the globe.”
Minister for Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the proposed Whitsunday Skyway was a bold new tourism investment.
“When we launched Destination 2045, we said Queensland needed more world-class experiences that give people another reason to visit our State, stay longer and explore more of our regions,” Minister Powell said.
“That’s why the Whitsunday Skyway was identified as one of the first 45X45 projects because it has the potential to become an iconic new experience in one of Queensland’s most spectacular destinations.”
Kim Mitchell and Geoff St Clair aboard their brand-new Seawind 1370 Sidetracked
When life takes a turn for the worse for the people who you care about, your first thought is “how can I help?”.
This is exactly what happened to the close-knit team at Whitsunday Escape on hearing the news that four-year-old Lucy Scarrott – sister to two-year-old Ella, and daughter to well- known Whitsunday boating community members, Cat and Andy Scarrott – has been diagnosed with medulloblastoma – an aggressive form of brain cancer.
Determined to make a difference in these darkest of times, and with the support of one of their long-term investors, the bareboat company has launched a raffle for a five-night charter on a brand-new luxury boat.
Sailed fresh from the factory in Asia to the Whitsunday Escape base at the Coral Sea Marina in Airlie Beach, by owners Geoff St Clair and Kim Mitchell, Sidetracked breezed through headwinds and sea states that would have literally stopped other boats in their tracks.
Under normal circumstances Sidetracked would be set straight to work in the Whitsunday Escape fleet where Mr St Clair is a repeat investor, but on this occasion her first ‘charter’ is to raise money for the Scarrott family.
“Lucy’s parents Cat and Andy are dear friends of the Whitsunday Escape family and their whole world has been turned upside down by a heartbreaking diagnosis no parent should have to face,” Whitsunday Escape Managing Director, Jaclyn Watson, said.
“Both parents have had to give up their jobs and relocate to Brisbane so that Lucy – who has already undergone major brain surgery at the Queensland Children’s Hospital and now faces months of intensive radiation and chemotherapy – can receive daily treatment for an entire year in a fight to survive.
“We may not be able to wave a magic wand and make Lucy’s diagnosis disappear, but one thing we can do, thanks to Geoff and Kim’s generosity, is take some of the immense financial pressure off, so that they can focus on what matters most, which is being together and supporting Lucy through this battle”.
Winning the holiday of a lifetime, sailing the Whitsundays aboard Sidetracked, and being a part of Lucy’s support team, is as simple as buying a ticket through Raffletix, where proceeds will be administered to the Scarrott family via the Proserpine Lions Club.
Only 1,000 tickets are available at a cost of just $50 each, with the winner set to sail away on a charter worth $11,000, and priceless in terms of the experiences it will deliver that money simply cannot buy.
The raffle runs from today until 10.30am on July 31st.
To purchase tickets, go to https://www.raffletix.com.au/whitsundayescape2026 or follow the links on Whitsunday Escape’s Facebook and Instagram accounts.
A simple act of kindness from local resident Danica Mitchell ensured two adventurous dogs were safely reunited with their family after wandering through the Abel Road and Springfield Circuit area earlier this week.
The pair of “escape artists” were first spotted following a woman out on a run, seemingly determined to join her exercise route rather than head home. After attempting to locate the dogs’ owners by running up and down the street several times, the runner was unable to find where the dogs belonged.
Concerned for their safety on the busy road and noticing the dogs were becoming hot and tired, Danica stepped in to help. She brought the dogs into her backyard, where they were given water, shade and supervision while efforts were made to locate their owners through social media.
Thankfully, the story had a happy ending, with the dogs’ family later arriving to collect them safely.
The incident serves as a reminder of the strong community spirit that exists throughout the region, with locals always willing to lend a hand — or in this case, a safe backyard — when needed.
Photo source: Facebook
Meet some of this year’s QLD Day ambassadors, championing the essence and vibrance of Queensland.
We know Queensland has produced no shortage of rugby league royalty. Wally Lewis AM – also known as “The King” – is the face of his state yet again as a 2026 QLD Day ambassador.
“I’m a proud Queenslander, born and bred, and I’ve spent a lifetime representing this wonderful state,” Wally said.
“I’m inspired by everyday Queenslanders, the people who show up for their families, their communities, and each other; that’s the real strength of this state.”
One of rugby league’s greatest players, Johnathan Thurston AM; former three-time premiership winner for the Brisbane Broncos, Gorden Tallis; and captain of the Broncos, Maroons and Jillaroos, Ali Brigginshaw are also representing rugby this year.
There must be something in the water, with our best swimmers diving in as ambassadors: eight-time Olympic medallist, Cate Campbell OAM; Paralympic gold medallist Alexa Leary OAM; and four-time Paralympic medallist Grant ‘Scooter’ Patterson. Netball great Laura Geitz, raised in the Darling Downs town of Allora, joins Gold Coast AFL rising star Ethan Read.
One of Australia’s most beloved tennis champions, Pat Rafter said he proudly wears the title of ‘Queenslander’, while he secretly loves having a stadium with his name on it.
“I love being a Queenslander, I was brought up in Mount Isa, so I guess there is a fair bit of that country passion in me,” Pat said.
“Having a stadium with my name on it is so cool. The Queensland tennis crowd is pretty respectful; they enjoy their tennis but appreciate good players with good attitude.”
From the arts, didgeridoo virtuoso and composer William Barton sits alongside Pub Choir founder Astrid Jorgensen OAM, country music balladeer Lee Kernaghan OAM, and celebrity chef Alastair McLeod.
Rounding out the line-up is veteran journalist and child-safety advocate Kay McGrath OAM, a Queensland Great, encouraging all Queenslanders to celebrate the unique spirit of the Sunshine State.
“Queensland Day is a chance for us to come together and reflect on how fortunate we are to live in this extraordinary state,” Kay said.
What ties them together isn’t fame – it’s our state. Each ambassador’s story is rooted in a different patch of Queensland, from outback towns to coastal cities. Together, they paint a portrait of a state that’s as diverse as it is proud.
The QLD Day Awards shine a spotlight on the Queenslanders who go above and beyond – the community volunteers, local legends, young achievers and those shaping our state’s future.
From grassroots changemakers to everyday heroes, these awards celebrate Queenslanders from all walks of life who make Queensland a better place. Announced on QLD Day, the winners reflect a proud tradition of service, generosity and community spirit that has defined our state since 1859.
Jane Hedger, CEO of Volunteering Queensland, said the awards recognise the Queenslanders who often work behind the scenes to support others.
“The QLD Day Awards shine a light on those Queenslanders who quietly make the world go round and give us an opportunity to say thank you,” she said.
For Catherine Lamb, a Meals on Wheels volunteer from Ashgrove, Brisbane, giving back is simply part of who she is.
“It’s about the simple things – how good you feel doing something good, and how much it means to the person on the other end,” Catherine said.
This year’s recipients continue a strong legacy of community champions, following in the footsteps of the 2025 QLD Day Local Legends – all shining examples of the Queensland spirit in action.
Long-awaited flood-immunity works proposed for Goorganga Plains near Proserpine are continuing to progress following years of flooding and highway closures along the notoriously flood-prone stretch of the Bruce Highway, however some residents say concerns remain about road safety through the area in its current condition.
The proposed Goorganga Plains Floodplain Upgrade forms part of broader Bruce Highway resilience planning aimed at improving flood immunity, reducing closures and strengthening one of Queensland’s most important freight and transport corridors.
The area has long been regarded as one of the Whitsundays region’s most flood-affected sections of highway, regularly becoming impassable during major weather events and cutting access between Mackay and the Whitsundays.
However, local resident Denise Hadley said she believes the current road conditions are extremely dangerous and claims repeated attempts to raise concerns with authorities continue to go unanswered.
“I’m gobsmacked. It’s infuriating, it’s disappointing, and I feel like it’s going to take somebody getting incredibly hurt for someone to listen,” she said.
Ms Hadley explained she had contacted the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) almost daily regarding concerns surrounding the road conditions but claimed she had received little acknowledgement in response.
“It’s really not good enough. You’re [TMR] supposed to make that road safe for everybody,” she said.
Ms Hadley has also contacted the Queensland Transport Minister’s office multiple times and had attempted to escalate the matter further through other government offices.
“I don’t know what has to happen for someone to take this seriously,” she said.
Ms Hadley claimed the road surface was rough and said reduced speed limits and temporary line markings through the area had heightened her concerns.
“It’s disheartening,” she said.
Despite her frustrations, Ms Hadley said she intended to continue pushing for action.
“I will continue to call, and I will continue to be the squeaky wheel,” she said.
“I just want all of those departments to be very aware — and I’ve written this in emails — that if somebody gets hurt out there, it’s on you. You have been made fully aware that there’s something wrong with this road.”
Since first raising her concerns publicly on social media in May 2025, Ms Hadley continues to plead with authorities to investigate the stretch of highway, and has continuously echoed, she will keep campaigning until action is taken.
According to publicly available project information, the proposed floodplain upgrade is intended to improve safety, flood resilience and freight reliability along the Bruce Highway corridor.
Life Publishing Group has contacted the Department of Transport and Main Roads for comment regarding the concerns raised by residents surrounding the Goorganga Plains section of the Bruce Highway, with further coverage to follow next week pending a response from the department.
Guests embraced the “Pretty in the Paddock” theme at this year’s Show Ball, enjoying a glamorous evening of music, dancing, and community spirit. Photo credit: Depicting Dreamscapes
The Proserpine Showgrounds came alive on the weekend as the annual Show Ball brought locals together for a night of music, celebration, and community pride. Embracing the “Pretty in the Paddock” theme, guests arrived in formal attire, filling the venue with colour, conversation, and dance.
Country star Amber Lawrence headlined the evening with a high-energy set that kept the dance floor packed, while local performer Shaun Diver showcased homegrown talent.
Organisers from the Show Ball Committee said the event was a strong success, thanking attendees, volunteers, performers, and sponsors for their support. The night was hailed as a reminder of the region’s strong community spirit and love of shared celebration.
The Show Ball delivered a memorable evening of glamour and music, with locals gathering at the Proserpine Showgrounds for a night of celebration and entertainment.
Guests embraced the “Pretty in the Paddock” theme, arriving in elegant formal attire and creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with laughter, conversation, and dancing. The event provided a welcome opportunity for the community to reconnect and enjoy a night out together.
Headline entertainment was provided by acclaimed country music artist Amber Lawrence, whose energetic performance kept the dance floor busy throughout the evening. Popular local performer Shaun Diver also entertained the crowd, highlighting the strong local talent within the region.
Show Ball Committee member Elaine Riley said the event had been a wonderful success and praised the strong community support shown on the night.
Organisers extended their thanks to all attendees, performers, volunteers, and sponsors who helped make the event such a success.
Guests gathered in Collinsville for the Heart of the Farm Ladies Luncheon hosted by NQ Dry Tropics. Photo source NQ Dry Tropics
Women from across the region gathered in Collinsville this week for the Heart of the Farm Ladies Luncheon, an event focused on connection and wellbeing within agriculture.
Hosted by NQ Dry Tropics through the Landholders Driving Change (LDC2) project, the luncheon featured guest speakers Steph Schmidt from Farm Life Psych and Anika Molesworth from Climate Wise Agriculture.
The event combined inspiring conversations with networking opportunities, good food and plenty of laughs, leaving attendees feeling “inspired and recharged”.
In a social media post following the event, NQ Dry Tropics thanked the guest speakers for sharing their stories and insights with local women involved in agriculture and regional communities.
The luncheon formed part of the Landholders Driving Change project, funded by the Queensland Government through the Queensland Reef Water Quality Program.
Burnout is never weakness; it’s a condition of the strongest performers.
High performers often believe they can operate at 140% forever. They push harder, take on more, solve every problem, carry everyone, and wear exhaustion like a badge of honour. The conscious mind tells them, “Keep going. We’ve got this.” But the nervous system is quietly keeping score.
Burnout happens when a nervous system no longer believes its owner will protect it. It helps to think of burnout as two people living in one body.
The first - your conscious mind - driven, capable and highly productive. It loves achievement, pressure and momentum, thrives on ticking boxes, solving crises and outperforming expectations.
The second - your nervous system - ancient survival system designed to keep you safe and alive, which regulates stress hormones, sleep, recovery, digestion, emotional balance and energy. Unlike your conscious mind, it cares only about survival - not KPIs, outcomes and lists of achievements.
Problems arise when high achievers keep the ‘pedal to the metal’ for a long, long time - never taking their foot off the accelerator long enough for the nervous system to rest and repair. Too much cortisol (stress hormone) builds up for waaaaay too long - eventually, the nervous system stops trusting its human host.
At first, it whispers - poor sleep, irritability, waking at 2am with a surge of adrenaline, emotional overwhelm, brain fog and fatigue that rest no longer fixes. When whispers are ignored – it then screams! The nervous system escalates, starts pulling emergency levers, normal daily functions are near impossible, and the body begins forcing the slowdown the mind refuses to choose. It’s a small break before a complete implosion, telling you to stop right now before you can’t reverse it.
Don’t let your driven employees arrive at this outcome, balancing on the edge of a precipice. Create honest, authentic check-ins with your high achievers, encourage discussions about emotional well-being, and ensure they take time off – without the phone!
Contributed with thanks to Judy Porter, Shiift
Renewable energy projects are generating a lot of discussion across the Whitsundays right now and understandably so.
While for some these projects represent opportunity, jobs and investment. For others, they raise real concerns around visual impacts, housing pressure, roads, agriculture, the environment and what this region could look like into the future.
As Mayor, I want the community to know Council is listening.
This week Council officially launched public consultation on a proposed Community Benefit Agreement Policy for major renewable energy projects in the Whitsundays.
Importantly, this consultation is not about Council trying to approve or push through projects.
The Queensland Government is the assessment manager and decision-maker for these developments not local government.
What Council is trying to do is ensure that if projects proceed through the State Government process, the Whitsundays community has a stronger voice around local expectations, impacts and potential community outcomes.
That includes conversations around roads, housing pressures, workforce accommodation, environmental management, support for local industries, near-neighbour impacts and long-term community infrastructure.
I know there is concern in parts of the community that decisions are already made. I want to be very clear that this consultation is the opportunity for residents, businesses, landholders and community groups to help shape Council’s policy position moving forward.
We also recognise there are existing and previously approved renewable energy projects within the region that are creating significant public interest and debate.
That is exactly why community feedback matters.
Council wants to hear directly from the people who live here, work here and will experience both the opportunities and impacts associated with these projects over the long term.
Consultation is open until Sunday 28 June through Yoursay Whitsunday, with community sessions being held across the region including Collinsville, Proserpine, Cannonvale and Bowen.
I encourage everyone, regardless of whether you support these projects, oppose them, or simply want more information,— to take part respectfully and constructively.
The strongest outcomes for the Whitsundays will come from making sure local voices are heard clearly, fairly and transparently.
The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry has officially released the full program for the 2026 Whitsunday Business Conference, bringing together regional businesses and industry and government representatives for a day focused on practical ideas, future opportunities, and meaningful connections.
The Chamber’s flagship event will be held from 8:30am to 3:00pm on Thursday 27 August 2026 across PCYC Whitsunday and Club Whitsunday in Airlie Beach.
Chamber President Allan Milostic said the Conference continued to evolve as one of the Whitsundays’ leading business events because of its strong focus on practical relevance and regional collaboration.
“This is about bringing together businesses, industries, educators, leaders, and emerging talent to have honest conversations about where the region is heading and how we build stronger businesses together,” he said. “We’re proud to showcase both local expertise and external perspectives that understand the realities of doing business in regional Queensland.”
Chamber Vice President and Chair of the Conference Sub-Committee, Jannah Baker, said this year’s program had been intentionally designed to deliver practical value, stronger discussion, and real-world insights for businesses navigating change and growth.
“The 2026 Conference is focused on practical conversations that matter to regional businesses right now – from workforce and leadership challenges through to AI, business growth, communication, and financial resilience,” Jannah said. “We’ve moved toward a more intensive program format this year, with deeper sessions, more interaction, and speakers who can share real experiences and practical strategies businesses can apply immediately.”
The Conference will open with a plenary session featuring highlights from the Chamber’s Vision for the Whitsundays project, alongside a Rising Stars Panel showcasing local young employees, trainees, and apprentices discussing the future workforce and what they value from the ‘Whitsundays workplace’.
Award-winning media and communications expert Ian Cohen from Cozalive Media will deliver the keynote presentation on building a brand that stands strong under pressure, drawing on decades of experience across major global sporting events, media, communications, and reputation management.
Concurrent sessions throughout the morning will allow delegates to tailor their conference experience across a range of business-critical topics.
Round One sessions include:
Breakout sessions in Round Two include:
The Conference will conclude with an interactive Long Lunch featuring business exhibitor showcases, activations and activities, networking opportunities, and major announcements.
For sponsorship, exhibitor opportunities, or further information, contact the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry
YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament is a program that grants people aged 16-25 the opportunity to represent the issues of young people in their electorate while learning about government processes in a mock parliament context. Photo supplied
Year 12 student Ashlin Styles was recently selected as one of 93 young people aged 15–25 from 500 applicants to take part in the YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament. Ashlin is the student representative for the Whitsunday electorate.
Ashlin attended a three-day camp where she was officially sworn into Parliament and began working within her committee, Justice, Police and Corrective Services (JPACS), including Child Safety and the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence.
During the camp, Ashlin had the opportunity to meet various Members of Parliament. As part of the committee, students are developing a bill proposing a new standalone Act to provide better reintegration support for people leaving custody, addressing gaps in areas such as housing and ongoing support.
Through this experience, Ashlin has gained a stronger understanding of how laws are created, along with skills in teamwork, leadership, and representing her community. She has also been placed on the refuting team for JPACS, where she will help review and propose amendments to the bill.
Ashlin will return to State Parliament in September for a five-day parliamentary sitting and is excited to continue developing the bill whilst preparing for the final sessions.
Photo source: Shutterstock
The written word will take centre stage in Cannonvale this September as the 2026 Whitsundays Writers Festival returns with a programme celebrating regional storytelling, creativity and the power of local voices.
Opening the festival is a panel discussion sure to resonate with aspiring writers and avid readers alike: Is There a Book in You? The session will explore the realities of turning an idea into a published work, with three regional authors sharing their personal journeys through creativity, self-doubt and the publishing process.
Festival Director Richard Evans said the event reflects the festival’s commitment to championing writers from across the Greater Whitsunday region.
“This year’s festival is about backing our region’s writers, stories and creative identity,” he said. “The quality of writers living across the Greater Whitsunday region is exceptional, and this panel is designed to give audiences an honest and inspiring look at the writing and publishing journey.”
The panel features Mackay-based fantasy author A. L. Tippett, thriller writer and former teacher Greg Bourke, and Whitsunday Life’s very own Rachael Smith, whose book Surviving Cancer: A Working Mum’s Guide documents her experience balancing cancer treatment, motherhood and work.
Beyond the opening discussion, the one-day festival will include keynote presentations, literary award announcements and Stories by the Sea, a free community celebration featuring regional authors, live music, children’s activities, book swaps and more.
Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre Executive Officer Rebecca Woods says connection, inclusion and community support are more important than ever as local families continue to navigate rising living costs and housing pressures. Photo source: Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre
By Chelsea Ravizza
As cost-of-living pressures, housing insecurity and social isolation continue to impact more local families, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre Executive Officer Rebecca Woods says community connection has never been more important.
“Connection is at the heart of everything we do,” Ms Woods said.
“Watching people move from crisis toward hope and connection is a powerful reminder of why community-based support matters so much. Sometimes even small acts of support, kindness and human connection can have a lasting impact and while crisis support is important, we also know that strong communities are built through relationships, inclusion and opportunities for people to feel they belong.”
One story that has remained with the team involved a local family who first became connected with the Centre through volunteering opportunities. What began as a chance for the eldest son to build employment skills and confidence gradually evolved into something much greater, with both his sister and mother later becoming involved as well.
Ms Woods said the experience highlighted the powerful ripple effect community support can have, with the family gaining confidence, social connection, improved wellbeing and a renewed sense of purpose through their involvement with the Centre.
“Stories like this remind us that the impact of community support extends far beyond immediate assistance,” she said.
“Sometimes the greatest outcomes come from creating spaces where people feel valued, included and empowered to grow.”
Across the Whitsundays Shire, many individuals and families are struggling to keep pace with rising living costs, including rent, groceries, fuel, electricity and insurance, while housing insecurity and a shortage of affordable rentals continue to place enormous pressure on households. Accessing support services can also prove challenging in regional communities, particularly for those experiencing social isolation, limited transport options, mental health concerns, family stress or domestic and family violence.
Ms Woods said demand for support services had increased significantly in recent years, particularly following the impacts of COVID-19, ongoing housing shortages and rising living costs.
“We are seeing more people seeking emergency relief, financial assistance, referrals, advocacy and help navigating increasingly complex systems,” she explained.
Importantly, Ms Woods said the demographic of people seeking assistance had also broadened, with more working individuals and families now requiring support despite being employed.
“Housing stress is one of the most consistent issues we encounter,” she said.
“Even people with stable incomes are finding it difficult to secure affordable accommodation, and that uncertainty affects every aspect of wellbeing — from mental health to family relationships and employment stability.”
Despite the growing challenges, Ms Woods said the Centre continued to focus not only on crisis support, but also on fostering connection, inclusion and belonging throughout the wider community.
“The Neighbourhood Centre provides welcoming spaces where people can come together, participate in programs, share experiences, build friendships and access support without stigma,” she said.
“Whether it’s through workshops, volunteer opportunities, social groups or even informal conversations over a cup of tea, these moments of connection help reduce isolation and strengthen community wellbeing.”
Beyond direct support services, the Centre also hosts a broad range of outreach programs, allied health services, support groups and community-led activities aimed at improving local access to support while encouraging social connection. These include employment support services, counselling programs, health and wellbeing initiatives, volunteer Justice of the Peace services, fitness and social activities for seniors, children’s programs, creative groups and community gatherings.
Ms Woods said providing a central and welcoming community hub helped ensure residents could access important services locally, particularly those experiencing financial hardship, disability, transport limitations or social isolation.
“For many people, simply knowing there is a safe and supportive place they can walk into makes a real difference,” she said.
Looking to the future, Ms Woods said her hope was for a Whitsundays community where everyone feels supported, connected and able to access help when challenges arise.
“We want to see greater housing stability, stronger mental health supports, increased opportunities for young people and families, and a community where no one feels alone during difficult times,” she said.
Ms Woods encouraged locals to support the work of the Neighbourhood Centre through volunteering, donations, attending community events, supporting local initiatives or simply checking in on neighbours who may be struggling.
“Community wellbeing is everyone’s responsibility, and some of the most meaningful change happens when people come together with kindness, understanding and a willingness to help,” she said.
“At the same time, there is a strong sense of resilience within our community. People genuinely care about one another, and we continue to see neighbours helping neighbours during difficult times.”
Last Thursday evening, Whitsundays locals gathered to discuss recent Queensland Department of Primary Industries trials of 1.6-kilometre tunnel nets, proposed as new commercial fishing gear for use across beaches, bays, and foreshores in the Whitsundays region.
Local trial sites to date have included Bowen, Edgecumbe Bay, Sinclair Bay, North Airlie, Double Bay and Shute Harbour.
The event was co-hosted by TackleWorld Airlie Beach, local fishing celebrity Jonathon ‘Brooksy’ Brooks, and The Inshore Flats Project, to raise awareness about the economic, social and environmental risks posed by the gear to the local community.
The concerns discussed at the meeting included the depletion of fish stocks near the tunnel net sites, the deployment of tunnel nets in juvenile fish habitat, dugong protection areas and high use recreational and tourism areas, plus the adverse impact upon local businesses who benefit from recreational fishing and tourism expenditure. Attendees also expressed concern that the Department of Primary Industries had not made the local community aware of the trials, despite the major impact it could have on local residents, local anglers and local businesses.
Chris Burgess and Este Darin-Cooper have been incredibly active in the organisation of initiatives as part of their role with the Inshore Flats Project.
“Part of the objective of the Inshore Flats Project is to raise awareness,” they said.
“The community is concerned because the Great Barrier Reef is such an important habitat.”
A spokesperson from the Queensland Department of Primary Industries responded stating,
“The Department of Primary Industries (DPI) is committed to supporting Queensland’s recreational, commercial, charter and aquaculture sectors, as well as the broader seafood supply chain. Following the removal of gillnets, research has commenced to test and evaluate a range of alternative low-impact fishing methods within Queensland’s inshore fisheries. The outcomes of this research will help build the evidence base needed to inform future fisheries management decisions.”
According to the Department’s website, tunnel nets are lightweight, temporary and leave no lasting trace. They have been deemed low impact on protected and non-target marine species. Tunnel netting has been deemed a clean and environmentally responsible fishing method by the government
“With the waters of the Great Barrier Reef supporting a different environment and species composition to Southeast Queensland, the trials will work to design and develop both the gear and its operation to understand whether it can be used successfully within waters of the GBR,” their website states.
The Inshore Flats Project have launched an online petition opposing the introduction of a new tunnel net fishery. The petition currently has over 3,500 signatures. They plan to hold similar events in other local communities across the coast.
The fantastic team at Life Publishing Group
For the second year in a row Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper has won Best Community Advertising Promotion for one of its charity events held within the region and hosted by Life Publishing Group.
Enchanted Garden took place in October 2025 and raised an impressive $56,000 for seven regional charities.
“This was a truly special event,” shared Life Publishing Group Editor in Chief Rachael Smith.
“Our team, led by event organiser Jess Clark, brought together an incredible event with promotions that spanned newspaper, magazine, social media, television, radio and billboard – every aspect of branding was planned meticulously and produced an epic result.
“From this, we are thrilled to engage with other highly visible local events including both Mackay Mayor’s Ball and the Whitsunday Mayor’s Ball to help drive promotion for their charity events – we love that we are seen as an effective platform to drive promotionwithin the region and beyond.”
Life Publishing is also looking forward to working with other key events this year including the Whitsunday Business Conference, the Whitsunday Business Awards, the Whitsundays Wedding Trail, the Whitsunday Writers Festival and many more.
In addition to the community event promotion award, Life Publishing also brought home gold for Best Locally Produced Print Advertisement and silver for Best Locally Produced Advertising Campaign for a series of ads designed for Garden Bar.
“Our design and production team are truly amazing!” said Whitsunday Sales Manager Trish Jandt.
“All our ads are designed from scratch right here in the Whitsundays and our team works closely with every client to create something truly spectacular – they deeply care about the client, the product and the result – and this is evident in everything we do, from the moment of sale right through to seeing their ad in the paper. It truly is award-winning stuff!”
In addition to the advertising awards, two Life Publishing Group journalists won editorial awards.
Jacob Casha, journalist with Burdekin Life Newspaper, was announced as Best Young Journalist of the Year and also received a silver for Best Single Story by an Individual Journalist.
Meanwhile, Chelsea Ravizza, who writes across all Life Publishing Group papers, including this one, received a silver in the Best Young Journalist of the Year category.
“Young journalists are the lifeblood of regional journalism,” said Life Publishing Group Editor in Chief Rachael Smith.
“We are proud to support the growth of our talented team and thrilled to see two of our journalists bring home awards.
“For me, 2026 represents a year where we continue to cement our presence within the newspaper community and are seen as high achievers among our peers – this is something I am truly proud of.
“Everyone in the team has contributed to the success behind all these awards and they are a result of us all striving for excellence in everything we do.”
Young local motorbike rider Thomas and his family have thanked Whitsundays-based excavation business Crisp Excavations for their support ahead of the upcoming Whitsunday Cup.
The business recently stepped in to sponsor Thomas, assisting with the purchase of a surprise steel shoe in preparation for the motorbike racing event. The gesture has been described by those close to the rider as both timely and deeply meaningful, offering not only practical assistance but a strong vote of confidence in Thomas’s developing sporting journey.
“I love when local businesses get behind kids and their passions,” his Mum, Tenille, shared whilst expressing her gratitude.
The sponsorship represents our local commitment to encouraging youth and backing grassroots sporting ambition in the region — a reminder that simple acts of support can help fuel a young person’s biggest dreams.
Nigel Dalton MP with Louise O’Neill CEO Palliative Care Queensland
As the weather in Mackay begins to change, we’re moving into the cooler months — not quite slippers weather yet, but it’s definitely time to break out the hot chocolates and marshmallows. Over the past few weeks, I’ve been out and about across our region almost every weekend, attending local events, catching up with community groups and speaking directly with residents about what they want to see for Mackay’s future.
Last week in Parliament, I was proud to advocate for Mackay by supporting the Resources Safety and Health Queensland and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2026, while also recognising the invaluable contribution local volunteers make to keeping our community strong and connected.
In relation to the Resource and Safety Bill I highlighted that in Mackay, mining is more than an industry — it supports local jobs, families, apprenticeships, small businesses and the growth of our regional communities. These reforms are about strengthening worker safety, accountability and governance across Queensland’s resources sector, while ensuring every worker returns home safely at the end of every shift.
I also spoke on the Inquiry into Volunteering in Queensland and recognised the incredible network of volunteers in the Mackay community. From Neighbourhood Watch groups helping keep our streets safe, to U3A Mackay supporting lifelong learning for seniors, to Volunteers in Policing (VIP’s) — volunteers are at the heart of our region. I also acknowledged the dedicated volunteers at Mackay Senior Citizens Hall, Mackay Mental Health and Community Programs, and the many local sporting clubs where volunteers continue to coach, manage, fundraise and support local families.
I also had the opportunity to attend Palliative Care Week and Neighbourhood Week celebrations in Parliament. These important initiatives often rely heavily on volunteers, carers, community organisations and local advocates who work tirelessly to support vulnerable Queenslanders and strengthen community connection.
Outside Parliament, it has been fantastic to see important local projects progressing across Mackay. I am proud to announce that works are now underway on upgrades for Mackay Musical Comedy Players Inc, delivering on our 2024 election commitment to invest in community infrastructure. I’m looking forward to seeing the new storage space completed and the many future productions still to come.
Construction is also progressing well on the new social and affordable housing project on Macalister Street. This development is part of a broader pipeline delivering 36 social and affordable homes across the Mackay. Once complete, the new apartment building will provide 18 homes, adding to the growing supply of safe and secure housing for local residents. Now well underway, this project represents a significant step forward, following the delivery of 36 homes in Mackay since being elected in 2024.
As always, if you would like to get in touch, my office is open Monday to Friday 8am -4pm or come and say hello at the Mackay Marina Run on Sunday, 7 June at Mackay Marina.
The team at Belle Property Whitsundays at ‘A Morning For Fern’ on Sunday. Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi
The community came together on Sunday to raise money for single-mum, Fern Wilson, who is battling incurable cancer following a second tragic diagnosis earlier this year.
Fern had spent two years in remission after successful treatment for stage 3 breast cancer in 2023, but sadly began to feel unwell in January and scans confirmed the worst.
As the devastating news reached the community, many people rallied around to show their support and within a matter of weeks planning for ‘A Morning For Fern’ was underway.
Organised by Reanne Burnett and hosted by Steph McQuirter and her team at Belle Property Whitsundays, the event saw more than 300 people attend on Sunday morning.
Following dedicated effort from a broad support team, an impressive $30,000 was raised to help Fern as she navigates her battle for survival from Bali where she is currently receiving treatment.
A total of 35 raffle prizes, contributed by 70 local businesses and valued at $3,000, were up for grabs on the day. These items raised $9,602.
In addition, 15 silent auction prizes generated a further $6,044 and a GoFundMe site garnered $14,120.
With additional donations still filtering in, organisers are expecting to exceed this amount in the coming days.
Every cent is going directly towards Fern, taking away the financial pressure as she navigates life and embraces hope for the future.
Earlier this week, Fern thanked everyone who had contributed towards making the morning a success.
“I especially want to thank Belle for putting together this beautiful morning tea and for all the love, effort, and support that has gone into making today possible. Your kindness means more to me than words can express,” she shared.
“To all the sponsors and everyone who donated the incredible prizes - thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your generosity is helping make my overseas treatment possible and is giving me the opportunity to continue healing, living, and fighting for my future.”
“I also want to say a very special thank you to Jacquie from the Trudy Crawley Foundation, and to the beautiful nurses Kris and Rosie, for supporting me throughout my cancer journey. They have been an absolute godsend and such a blessing in my life.”
‘A Morning For Fern’ was kindly supported by a host of local vendors who all donated their time on the day, many also giving their proceeds to Fern.
Lumos café, Whitsunday Sweet Delights, Mrs Beans Coffee Van, Rilo real fruit ice cream & smoothies, Smoking Gunns BBQ, Samuel McCann Musician, Cliolistic Face painting, Elementa – 74 Island Bar and Top Tukka all donated their services.
The following businesses also contributed to making the event special: Palm Co Media- Videographer, TP Events and Styling, Karen Hill Florists and The Balloon Emporium.
Organisers would also like to thank all the local businesses who donated prizes on the day and everyone who came along to the event and contributed to the money raised.
Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort (left) and Officer in Charge of Ayr Police Station Senior Sergeant Lisa Shields (right) with survivors following the tragic bus rollover near Gumlu. Photo: Jacob Casha
A bus crash in Gumlu, north of Bowen last week, has made national news after the incident tragically took the life of one of the passengers.
Emergency Services were called to the Bruce Highway north of Bowen just before 4pm on May 14th after the southbound flexibus travelling from Cairns to Airlie Beach left the roadway and rolled onto its side. Passengers were transported to hospitals across Townsville, Ayr and Bowen.
According to passengers, the bus driver had warned everyone that the bus was ‘not the best one’, before the departure. A bus crash occurred on the same stretch of highway two years ago, claiming three lives.
A young overseas tourist has died and dozens of passengers were left shaken after a bus crash near Gumlu last Thursday afternoon.
Emergency services were called to the Bruce Highway north of Bowen just before 4pm on 14th May, after a southbound FlixBus travelling from Cairns to Airlie Beach left the roadway and rolled onto its side.
The bus was carrying 29 people at the time of the crash. The driver, a 70-year-old Mackay man, was taken to Bowen Hospital with minor injuries.
Police confirmed 26-year-old Serena Andreatta, a dual Argentinian and Italian national, died at the scene.
Several other passengers sustained injuries and were transported to hospitals in Townsville, Ayr and Bowen for treatment.
One passenger who survived the crash told Life Publishing they became concerned about the bus’s movements in the hours before the rollover.
“I did not feel so safe,” the passenger said, claiming the bus appeared to be “swerving” at times.
The passenger said the concern prompted them to fasten their seatbelt.
They then recalled the bus striking a barrier before rolling, describing chaotic scenes inside the vehicle as passengers and belongings were thrown around the cabin.
Following the crash, passengers were cared for in Ayr overnight before continuing their journey south on another bus.
Burdekin Shire Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort attended to check on passengers and assisted in sourcing medication for those affected. Passengers lauded the response efforts of Burdekin Shire Council, Ayr Police, and the wider community.
The Queensland Police Forensic Crash Unit is continuing to investigate the incident.
The incident occurred on the same stretch of highway where a fatal Greyhound bus crash in 2024 claimed three lives.
Superintendent Dean Cavanagh described the crash scene as “very confronting” and praised emergency crews for their rapid response.
“This was a very complex incident, it was a very serious incident, and it was in an isolated area,” he said.
“Although we tragically lost a life, I believe that effort that we saw absolutely went into saving many [more].”
Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins issued support, thanking the emergency service providers who promptly responded.
“My thoughts are with those involved, their family and loved ones, and the first responders, including our council traffic crews who worked through a very serious incident.”
Premier David Crisafulli described the incident as a tragedy, expressing condolences for the woman who died and noting multiple patients were still fighting for life in hospital.
He declined to speculate the cause of the crash, but reiterated his commitment to improving safety on the Bruce Highway.
“It’s a road that means everything to the state, and it’s a road that’s a long way short of where it should be.”
The Whitsundays Writers Festival has announced the winners of its 2026 Stanza Bonanza poetry competition and inaugural Fast Fiction competition, showcasing storytelling talent inspired by the Whitsundays’ landscapes, people and imagination.
Sydney writer and journalist Linda Daniele was named the winner of the 2026 Stanza Bonanza poetry competition, while Airlie Beach author Natalie Stockdale took out the festival’s first Fast Fiction title.
Presented to mark World Poetry Day, the Stanza Bonanza competition invited poets of all levels to submit an original poem of up to 20 lines inspired by the prompt: “A Whitsundays postcard from 100 years ago, or 100 years from now.”
Meanwhile, the Fast Fiction competition — launched for International Day of Storytelling — challenged writers to craft a story in 250 words or less responding to the prompt: “Something unexpected washed ashore on Whitehaven Beach…”
Festival Director Richard Evans said both competitions attracted a strong response from writers across a wide range of backgrounds and experience levels.
“The response to Stanza Bonanza was a wonderful reminder of how powerfully poetry can connect place, memory and imagination,” Richard said.
“Writers embraced the prompt in inventive and surprising ways, and the standard of entries was exceptionally strong.”
Speaking about the inaugural Fast Fiction competition, Richard said the quality of submissions highlighted the creativity within the region and beyond.
“The standard of entries in our first Fast Fiction competition was excellent,” he said.
“It was exciting to see so many writers embrace the challenge of telling a compelling story with limited words and time.”
Based in Sydney, Ms Daniele is a writer, journalist and editor who has worked in legal publishing for more than 15 years, alongside freelance journalism and editorial work for On The Side. Her writing has also been recognised in the Sydney Mardi Gras Short Story Competition.
Her winning poem, Dear You—, explored themes of memory, time and environmental reflection through imagery inspired by the Whitsundays landscape.
Airlie Beach-based Ms Stockdale is published by Big Sky Publishing and works professionally as a memoir writer. Like many locals, she draws inspiration from the region’s natural beauty, including Whitehaven Beach, which she describes as “our own backyard”.
Her winning short story follows a man confronting memories of conflict after discovering a rusted rifle washed ashore decades after losing it during the Rhodesian conflict.
A highlight of the Fast Fiction competition was the participation of students from Whitsunday Christian College and Proserpine State School.
“Seeing teachers and students encourage with the competition reminds us why these opportunities matter – they create space for young people to imagine, write, and share their voices,” Richard said.
Both winners will receive a $100 cash prize and a free day pass to the 2026 Whitsundays Writers Festival, which will be held on Sunday, September 13, at the Whitsunday Marine Club.
Richard encouraged entrants to continue exploring opportunities through the festival’s literary programs and competitions.
“We’re grateful to everyone who entered,” he said.
“The quality of work we received was inspiring, and we encourage all entrants to keep writing, keep experimenting, and keep sharing their work.”
Festival organisers have confirmed the full 2026 program and tickets are now available through the festival website.
Bella is looking for her forever family in the Whitsundays and beyond.
She is a one year old Staffordshire cross, medium sized, full of love, and so ready for someone to choose her and mean it.
She has been through more than most. Surrendered, rehomed, then unwell, and then without a home again through no fault of her own. Through all of it she has remained gentle, affectionate, and completely devoted to the people around her.
Bella loves children, thrives on connection, and just wants to be close to her people. She is best suited to a home where someone is around most of the time because when she has her person, she gives everything she has.
She has already been through so much. She just needs someone to choose her for life.
To adopt Bella, DM Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc on Facebook with your name, phone number and "Bella".
The adoption fee is $400. She is microchipped, recovered and healthy.
Tamara Noble and Rebecca Woods from the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre with raffle prizes at the organisation’s Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea fundraiser. Photo supplied
The Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre has raised $1,860 for Cancer Council Queensland during its annual Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea event.
Held with a tropical theme, the fundraiser brought together locals for a colourful morning filled with community spirit, laughter and friendly competition, including prizes for the loudest tropical shirt.
The Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre thanked everyone who attended, donated and supported the event, with special recognition given to Club Whitsunday for partnering on the event and providing the brunch menu.
Organisers said events like Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea highlight the strength of the local community in supporting people impacted by cancer.
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Volunteers with Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc. sort and remove marine debris collected from Whitsunday islands as part of efforts to protect the Great Barrier Reef and turn ocean waste into recycled products. Photo supplied
A new North Queensland billboard campaign is calling on the community to help turn ocean waste into something useful, as Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc. continues its mission to protect the Great Barrier Reef.
Every year, Eco Barge removes tonnes of marine debris from islands across the reef. Now, in partnership with Paradise Outdoor Advertising (POA), the organisation is urging locals to join volunteers in transforming 24 tonnes of collected ocean waste into recycled products.
The campaign, displayed across key regional locations, encourages people to sign up and become part of the solution by volunteering in the Whitsundays.
Libby Edge, Founder of Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc, said the initiative represents an important next step in the organisation’s work.
“Every piece of marine debris we remove from the islands has a story,” Libby said.
“With the support of our volunteers, we’re now working to transform that debris into new products, showing that what washes up on our shores can become part of the solution rather than part of the problem.”
Since 2009, Eco Barge volunteers have removed 277,947 kilograms of marine debris, completed 569 clean-up trips, engaged 14,291 volunteers, and cared for 297 sick and injured marine turtles.
POA CEO Mitch James said billboards were a powerful way to inspire action. “Billboards are designed to capture attention and deliver a powerful message, in this case giving people an opportunity to protect the Great Barrier Reef through local action.”
He added the campaign aims to turn awareness into participation across the region.
The campaign will run year-round. More information is available at www.ecobargecleanseas.org.au
Zoran teaches self-defence across all age groups, equipping individuals with important skills. Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi
With 43 years of experience across 8 different martial arts, Whitsunday local Zoran Stublin is passionate about bringing his expertise to the region. Zoran runs the Whitsunday Self Defence Academy, a completely free community initiative open to all members of the public.
Zoran’s approach to self-defence training comes from a synthesis of 8 different martial arts – Judo, Jujitsu, Aikido, Ninjutsu, Kyosho, Jutsu, Kapap, Krav Maga and Russian systema.
Moving to Whitsundays in 2021, he set up what is now known as the Whitsunday Self Defence Academy to provide guidance to the community on public safety and self-protection.
Zoran has also taken his training across the country, acting as a visiting instructor in Melbourne and Cairns.
Zoran’s professional background plays a huge part in what he does. His military training and additional consultancy work in security and government have helped him form a program that extends beyond just physical defence – examining ways to navigate different social situations when a person is under threat.
“It’s not just about martial arts.” Zoran said.
“There is a psychological element. I teach people how to recognise sociopaths and psychopaths. I also teach them how to de-escalate aggressive situations.”
“When I started the academy, a major issue amongst kids was bullying and harassment. I started a bullying programme that looks at navigating those situations. I also developed a specialised programme for women and self-defence. I teach them about home intrusion and provide tips on how to use everyday household objects such as spoons, towels and pans to defend themselves.”
Zoran’s self-defence program also covers theft attempts in carparks, sexual predators, abductions, kidnappings and ATM holdups.
“I’ve tried to create a realistic programme to equip people with skills for domestic situations.” He said.
Participants attend the class in their everyday clothes to prepare them for potential real-life situations.
“When you make someone wear a uniform in a dojo it creates a certain kind of psychology. They may be unprepared in a real-life situation without their uniform.” Zoran explained.
“Making people wear civil clothes removes the comfort that someone might get from putting on a uniform and prepares them better for real life situations.”
In the midst of Queensland Domestic and Violence month, Zoran’s priority is ensuring protection in domestic environments.
“It’s an issue in the region. I collaborate with counselling services, providing tips such as arrangement of furniture that would allow easier escape routes and better protection.”
At the core of Zoran’s initiative is a passionate desire to help the community as much as he can.
“My only aim for the region is to promote confidence in people, so they don’t walk around with fear. I’m not teaching them to be paranoid, but rather to be aware. I want to provide everyone with basic tools for their toolbox that they can take out when they need it.”
Sessions are conducted at Club Whitsunday every Tuesday and Thursday with kids’ sessions running from 4:30pm to 5:30pm and adult sessions commencing at 6pm.
Zoran strongly urges anyone interested to come along.
Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry Executive Officer, Julia Evans said many Whitsunday businesses were built over decades through personal sacrifice and should not be treated as speculative investments. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
By Julia Evans
Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry Executive Officer
The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry has listened to the deep concern among local business owners following last week’s Federal Budget.
Proposed changes to Capital Gains Tax (CGT) and Negative Gearing settings, particularly the potential move from the 50 per cent CGT discount to inflation indexation, have raised serious questions for family businesses, farmers, and sole operators across our region.
For many Whitsunday business owners, their enterprise is not a speculative asset. It is a lifetime of hard work, a retirement plan, a family legacy, and the backbone of local employment.
Under current proposals, when that business is sold to fund retirement, the tax outcome could be significantly higher, especially for those who built value over decades from modest starting capital. That risk is not abstract. It directly affects succession planning, reinvestment, and the economic stability of our communities.
In the Whitsundays, around 4,200 businesses employ more than 21,000 people. They already carry the weight of income tax, company tax, payroll tax, GST, and rising compliance costs from federal, state and local governments. Adding poorly designed CGT changes without proper regional consultation would risk making local businesses collateral damage in a national tax debate.
But this statement is not about attacking the government.
It is a clear signal that the Whitsunday business community cannot afford to be silent or fragmented. The scarcity of visible consultation with our North Queensland region reinforces one hard truth: without a strong, united voice, our realities will not be understood in Canberra.
The Chamber is calling on every regional business – micro, family, or medium-sized – to join us. Not just to complain, but to shape solutions. To feed real experiences into advocacy that matters. To ensure that future policy encourages investment, not uncertainty, and backs the people who build regional Australia.
As one, we are a strong and loud voice. Alone, we are easily overlooked.
The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry encourages all local businesses to become members and help drive a practical, united response to the policy challenges ahead.
Each year the Federal Budget arrives with big headlines and plenty of commentary, and this year has been no exception. The recent Budget has generated most of its attention around proposed changes to property taxation, particularly capital gains tax and negative gearing, while at the same time leaving the superannuation and pension system largely untouched.
The biggest proposed changes relate to property investors. The Government has flagged plans to limit negative gearing on residential property so that, from 1 July 2027, it would apply only to newly constructed dwellings. Existing investment properties would be grandfathered, meaning current owners could continue using negative gearing under today’s rules until they sell. The stated aim is to encourage new housing supply and improve affordability for first‑home buyers.
Alongside this is a proposed overhaul of capital gains tax. The familiar 50 per cent discount for assets held longer than 12 months would be replaced with an inflation‑based indexation method, combined with a minimum tax rate on realised gains. These changes are also proposed to start from 1 July 2027 and would apply prospectively, with transitional rules to ensure gains already accrued are not retrospectively taxed under the new system.
While these announcements sound dramatic, it is important to remember that they are proposals only. None of these measures are law yet, and they will not take effect for more than a year at the earliest.
In contrast, there were very few new announcements affecting superannuation and the Age Pension. Most Australians will see little direct change to the retirement system as a result of this Budget. Previously legislated measures, such as the increase in the Superannuation Guarantee to 12 per cent and the introduction of payday super from July 2026, are proceeding as planned, but these were already known. Pension rates will continue to be adjusted through the normal indexation process, and there were no major structural changes announced.
Another key point often lost in the Budget noise is the legislative process itself. For these tax changes to become law, they must be drafted into legislation and passed by both the House of Representatives and the Senate in identical form before receiving Royal Assent. This process can take months, and it is common for amendments to be made along the way, particularly for complex or controversial tax measures.
History shows that what is announced on Budget night is not always what ultimately becomes law. Start dates, thresholds and exemptions can change as legislation moves through Parliament.
For investors, retirees and those planning ahead, the sensible response is not to panic or rush into decisions based on headlines. This is a time to review, seek advice if needed, and wait for clarity. In Canberra, as in financial markets, proposed change and final outcomes are often not the same thing.
If you’d like an obligation free review of your financial situation, call us for an appointment today.
This year brought a few surprises. So did some of your legal questions.
Whether it was "Can I leave my estate to my dog?" or "Do I really need a lawyer to buy land off my cousin?" - we’ve heard it all. And we’re still smiling.
Here’s to another year of good advice, plenty of coffee, and helping our local community through whatever comes next.
Whitsunday Law – Still here. Still local. Still on your side.
What a milestone moment for our market. On Sunday, 10th May our auction event exceeded expectations, generating incredible energy, strong buyer interest, and competitive bidding across 8 of our 13 auctions. One property even sold prior to auction, highlighting the urgency and demand created before the day began.
Most excitingly, the event reignited buyer engagement across several properties that had experienced quieter enquiry periods, with multiple homes now in active post-auction negotiations with motivated buyers.
The atmosphere in the room was electric and a powerful reminder of what a well-executed auction campaign can achieve for buyers, sellers, and the broader market.
Stay tuned...the best results may still be to come.
Photo supplied
Bird’s Fish Bar is becoming more than just a local spot for fresh seafood and fish and chips — it’s also becoming one of Bowen’s most unique waterfront function spaces.
The newly expanded dining area offers a relaxed coastal atmosphere perfect for gatherings of all sizes. From intimate baby showers and birthdays to corporate functions, Christmas parties, weddings, wakes and community events, the space can be tailored to suit both casual and formal occasions.
Located right on Bowen Marina, the bar is home to stunning views of the bay, boasting some of Bowen’s most vibrant and stunning coastal scenery. As the sun sets over the water and fishing boats drift through the marina, the venue transforms into a truly memorable setting that captures the relaxed spirit of North Queensland living.
With fresh local seafood at the heart of the menu, guests can enjoy everything from grazing platters and seafood smorgasbords to casual fish and chip style catering, offering something for everyone. Freshly caught local produce and a genuine paddock-and-ocean-to-plate approach add to the experience, giving guests a real taste of the region. The licensed bar, waterfront views and indoor/outdoor dining options create the perfect setting for locals and visitors alike to celebrate special moments.
As a third-generation family-owned business, Bowen’s Fish Bar pride themselves on creating a welcoming and authentic Bowen experience while showcasing the best seafood our region has to offer. Their passion for local hospitality and connection to the community shines through in every event, creating an atmosphere that feels both personal and memorable.
This is more than just a food and drink venue; it is a wonderful experience that brings together the best aspects of Bowen – its beauty, charm and laid-back vibe. Guests can relax with the sea breeze, enjoy fresh seafood straight from local waters, and soak in the vibrant marina atmosphere that makes Bowen such a special destination.
Whether it’s a long lunch, a business gathering, or a milestone celebration, Bird’s Fish Bar offers a unique “boat-to-plate” experience that combines fresh local seafood, relaxed hospitality and one of Bowen’s best marina views.
Burdekin Member Dale Last with Queensland Premier David Crisafulli Photo source: Facebook
Member for Burdekin Dale Last has issued his response to the 2026/2027 Federal Budget, stating the Burdekin’s farmers, motorists, resource workers, families and small businesses had every right to feel disappointed.
“The Burdekin’s major industries have been economic powerhouses, not only for our state but our nation and the hardworking men and women in those sectors have every right to feel like they have been treated like cash cows,” Mr Last said.
“Looking across the state, there is no new infrastructure funding and an attempt by the federal government to turn their backs on a funding agreement to provide the crucial safety upgrades we need for the Bruce Highway.”
“The Crisafulli Government fought hard to reinstate the 80-20 funding deal with the federal government for the nationally recognised highway after it fell by the wayside under the former Labor state government.”
“The Bruce Highway is an artery to the beating heart of industries that drive our nation’s economy and in the North we have called for a co-ordinated approach to back the investment that artery needs, yet the federal budget fell short of this.”
Mr Last said the hit for regional communities didn’t stop at the highway with $21.4 million cut from regional communications and a key federal program supporting feral pest eradication projects stripped of funding from 2027/2028.
“Our major industries deserve to have federal government support reflecting the contribution they give to our nation’s economy, be it funding to manage biosecurity risks, having reliable communications or safer roads to connect our paddocks to export markets.
“At a time of uncertainty rather than showing leadership, the federal government has placed more pressure on our essential services, our housing and current infrastructure, leaving Queensland to do more with less.”
Bowen Tourism and Business team members, Cindy and Glenn and volunteers Kim and Ray at the Townsville Expo on the weekend. Photo supplied
Bowen and the greater Whitsunday region was well represented at the Townsville Caravan, 4x4 and Outdoor Adventure Expo on the weekend.
Two team members from Bowen Tourism and Business, Glenn Womal and Cindy Tonks, attended the show, along with two volunteers, Kim and Ray Tannock.
Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said caravan and camping shows provided a great opportunity to speak to people about what our region has to offer.
“Whenever we attend these expos, we talk to thousands of people, and they get to ask specific questions and hear real stories from local people.
“The face-to-face contact with these potential visitors is invaluable in promoting our region to potential travellers,” she said.
Bowen’s Visitor Services Co-ordinator, Glenn Womal said many people at the expo had already been to Bowen and were planning to visit again.
“Many people said how much they loved our town.
“Others said they were considering coming to Bowen and after speaking to the team, their mind had been made up.
“It was also a great opportunity to connect with other information centres, all proudly showcasing the many fantastic destinations across Queensland.”
Bowen Tourism and Business is a not-for-profit organisation promoting Bowen and the greater Whitsunday region and operating the Bowen Visitor Information Centre next to the Big Mango.
Contributed with thanks to Bowen Tourism and Business
This week is National Road Safety Week and it is an important reminder for all of us that every decision we make behind the wheel matters.
Last week, our region was shaken by another tragic bus crash on the Bruce Highway near Gumlu which was a devastating incident that claimed a life and left many others injured.
My thoughts remain with the victims, their families, loved ones, and all those impacted by this heartbreaking event.
As Mayor, I also want to acknowledge the extraordinary efforts of our first responders including Whitsunday Regional Council road crews, who were called in to assist Queensland Police with traffic management at the scene from Thursday evening through to Friday morning.
Our crews worked tirelessly through the night, providing traffic control, advance signage, fatigue-managed shift changes, safety assessments and ongoing site monitoring to help emergency services respond safely and efficiently.
Their professionalism during such confronting circumstances reflects the vital role local government crews play in supporting our communities during times of crisis.
Sadly, incidents like this are a sobering reminder that road trauma can happen anywhere, at any time.
Road safety should not be a political discussion. It’s about people, safety, and making sure regional communities are not forgotten.
The Bruce Highway is a nationally significant road carrying families, tourists, freight, workers and essential services across vast distances and challenging North Queensland conditions.
In recent years, our region has experienced a number of major incidents, including serious bus crashes, and these tragedies reinforce what many locals already know — the Bruce Highway through our region needs to be prioritised through sustained, targeted safety investment.
That investment must be more than pothole repairs and basic maintenance.
We need to see critical safety upgrades prioritised across North Queensland, including additional overtaking lanes, road widening, improved guardrails, better wildlife management, safer intersections and more rest areas to help manage driver fatigue.
These are the kinds of practical safety improvements that save lives, and regional Queensland deserves the same level of focus and investment that is often seen in the south east.
Regional communities should not have to accept a lower standard of road safety simply because we live outside the south east corner.
I have been advocating strongly for continued investment in the Bruce Highway, and we are beginning to see important progress through upgrades already underway at Goorganga Plains and Hamilton Plains.
We acknowledge and appreciate the commitments already being made by both State and Federal Governments, but we must continue working constructively to ensure future upgrades are prioritised where they are needed most.
Regional Queensland contributes enormously to the national economy through tourism, agriculture, resources and freight. Investing in safer, more resilient highways is not just a local issue — it is an investment in the future of Queensland and Australia.
This week, I encourage everyone to take the road safety pledge: drive so others survive.
Together, we can honour lives lost, support those affected, and continue advocating for safer roads across the Whitsundays and North Queensland.
Photo supplied
Since launching in January 2023, Team Kerr (Ellen and Bek Kerr) has quickly built a reputation for delivering personalised, professional, and caring real estate services across the Whitsundays. Specialising in residential property sales, the business was founded after 18 years of local industry experience with a vision to raise the standard of customer service in real estate.
For Team Kerr, the motivation to establish their own business came from a desire to offer clients something more genuine and relationship-driven. By combining industry expertise with “old-fashioned” personal service, the team set out to create a real estate experience that prioritises trust, communication, and results for both sellers and buyers.
The local property market continues to see strong growth, largely driven by a shortage of available homes. While this creates positive opportunities for sellers, it has also intensified competition for buyers entering the market. In response, Team Kerr has positioned itself as a high-service agency offering premium support while maintaining competitive commission rates of less than two per cent.
As business owners, Team Kerr believes success comes down to a few simple principles: follow your passion, invest in your people, and support your local community. These values continue to guide the business as it grows and evolves.
Being part of the Chamber of Commerce also plays an important role in the business. Team Kerr values the networking opportunities, local connections, and ability to stay informed about regional developments — all of which are essential in an industry built on relationships and community engagement.
Learn more about Team Kerr Real Estate: www.oneagencyglobal.com
Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry
National Reconciliation Week will take place from 27th May to 3rd June. Photo source: Facebook
The Whitsunday Regional Council is celebrating Reconciliation Week with a free community event at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on Thursday 28th May at 9.30am. The event will include a flag raising ceremony, welcome to country, traditional smoking ceremony, student speakers and morning tea for all.
National Reconciliation Week takes place across the country from the 27th May to 3rd June, commemorating two significant milestones in the reconciliation journey; firstly the 1967 referendum that formerly recognised Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as part of the population by amending the constitution. Prior to this, First Nations Australians were excluded from the constitution, allowing the government to create independent policies, resulting in mass dispossession and a legal right to remove children from their families.
The second milestone is the 1992 Mabo decision. When the British arrived in Australia in the late 18th century, they ruled the land was ‘terra nullius’ meaning it belonged to no one despite the existence of the indigenous population that had lived on the land for at least 65,000 years. In the landmark case Mabo v Queensland (No.2), the High Court ruled that the assertion of terra nullius was false and that First Nations Australians had prior rights to the land.
This year’s theme is All In, which calls for Australians to commit to reconciliation every day. The theme is a reminder that reconciliation and advancing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island peoples’ rights isn’t a passive activity and is not solely the responsibility of First Nations people but all the community.
The 2026 campaign was created in collaboration with Carbon Creative, a First Nations-owned and operated marketing and creative agency. The artwork for the national campaign was created by renowned Gumbaynggirr/Bundjalung artist Otis Hope Carey.
The Prevention Council hopes that opening discussion will encourage community support, an essential factor in tackling the issue of domestic and family violence. Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi
Queensland’s Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Council met with Whitsunday stakeholders on Thursday 14th May to explore opportunities to better understand local drivers of harm and tailor prevention strategies that reflect these factors.
The Prevention Council is co-chaired by former Police Commissioner Mr Bob Atkinson AO APM and Ms Vanessa Fowler OAM, the sister of the late Allison Baden-Clay who was murdered by her husband in 2012.
Working at a grassroots level with the community, the Prevention Council has a leadership role in bringing about positive cultural change and mobilising action around primary prevention of domestic and family violence.
Primary prevention is about stopping violence before it starts. It focuses on creating a society where respect, equality, and healthy relationships are the norm.
Mr Atkinson said, “We know that behaviours that contribute to domestic violence can start small — a sexist joke here, a degrading comment there. When left unchallenged, they contribute to a toxic culture that feeds a cycle of violence and abuse. This culture does not happen overnight — it is shaped by the beliefs and behaviours we see and accept around us. To truly prevent violence, we need to challenge these harmful social norms and replace them with ones that promote respect and equality.”
Ms Fowler added, “Social norms are the unwritten rules that shape how we behave and interact with each other. They influence what we see as acceptable or unacceptable and are often so deeply ingrained that we might not even realise they exist. However, if we think about some of the significant behaviour changes we have seen in our lives — from drink driving to wearing seatbelts — we can see how community attitudes have shifted over time. These were anti-social behaviours that put lives at risk. That is where we need to be with domestic and family violence — completely unacceptable in any context.”
The roundtable discussion included representatives from Whitsunday Counselling and Support Services, Whitsunday Regional Council, Queensland Police, and the Rotary Club. It followed a candlelight vigil hosted earlier this month by Whitsunday Counselling and Support Services to mark the beginning of Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month.
State MP Amanda Camm voiced her gratitude at the work being done to support the issue across the region.
“As Minister for Domestic and Family Violence, I welcome the DFV Prevention Council and stakeholders visiting the Whitsundays to continue these important conversations around domestic and family violence prevention.
“Bringing together local organisations, frontline services and community leaders is an important step in understanding the unique challenges facing our region and identifying ways we can work together to strengthen prevention efforts and support safer communities.”
The conversation on Thursday was just the beginning of what the Prevention Council hopes will become a whole-of-community approach across the Whitsunday local government area, involving individuals, families, workplaces, schools, sporting clubs, religious institutions, business leaders, community organisations, and government representatives working together to deliver coordinated and concentrated prevention activities across all settings.
Photo sourced from Facebook
A lucky kookaburra is preparing to return to the wild after a dramatic rescue effort brought together local wildlife carers and a compassionate community.
Last Friday, the injured bird was discovered by local resident “Farmer Joe,” who quickly stepped in to help and delivered the kookaburra to Orchid Valley Vet for urgent care. Thanks to his quick thinking, the bird’s life was saved.
Fauna Rescue Whitsundays Species Liaison Officer for birds, Kelly Dalling Fallon, has since been caring for the recovering kookaburra and praised Joe’s actions.
“Thank you so much for saving this one’s life,” Kelly said.
Under Kelly’s care, the iconic Australian bird has recovered well and is expected to soon return to its natural home among the gum trees.
Stories like this are a timely reminder of the role residents play in protecting the wildlife that surrounds the Whitsundays - from rescuing injured animals to supporting local wildlife organisations, small acts of kindness can make a life-saving difference.
With continued community support and awareness, hopefully many more animals will be given the same second chance to spread their wings and return home where they belong.
Yesterday, Belle Property held a public fundraiser to support local mum Fern Wilson, who is living with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer.
The event featured food, drinks, face painting, and a raffle, all aimed at raising funds and showing the community’s support for Fern during this difficult time. It was a wonderful occasion filled with laughter, generosity, and strong community spirit.
Stock Image used
A single-vehicle bus crash has sadly claimed the life of one passenger at Gumlu, north of Bowen overnight.
According to initial police investigations, at approximately 4pm on Thursday 14th May, a bus with 29 people on board was travelling south along the Bruce Highway from Cairns to Airlie Beach, when it left the roadway and rolled onto its side.
Several other passengers were injured and transported to Townsville, Ayr, and Bowen Hospitals. The bus driver, a 70-year-old Mackay man, was transported to Bowen Hospital with minor injuries.
As of Friday morning, three patients are confirmed to be in a life-threatening condition with one assessed on the scene and two airlifted to Townsville University Hospital.
Multiple people were injured and transported to Ayr Hospital before being airlifted to Townsville University Hospital by Royal Flying Doctor’s Service.
There are eight stable patients in Townsville whilst one remains in a stable condition at Ayr.
The Bruce Highway has reopened at Gumlu.
This tragic accident comes less than two years after a fatal bus crash on the same stretch of the Bruce Highway, which claimed the lives of three women in on June 3rd, 2024.
On this occasion, a Greyhound bus with 33 people on board was travelling north along the Bruce Highway, also near Gumlu, when it crossed over to the wrong side of the road and into oncoming traffic.
The bus struck a Land Cruiser station wagon travelling in the opposite direction.
A 56 year old Townsville woman and two German women aged 21 and 33 passed away as a result of the incident.
The 52-year-old bus driver from North Ward was charged with five counts of dangerous operation of a vehicle causing death or grievous bodily harm, but was subsequently found not guilty.
Anyone with relevant dash cam vision of incident last night is urged to contact police.
Investigations are continuing
Mayor Greg Williamson and CEO of Mackay Regional Council Gerrod Carlyon rolled up their sleeves this May to make a crucial, life-saving donation to Lifeblood Mackay. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Mayor Greg Williamson has once again rolled up his sleeves for 2026, as staff and community members unite to support the annual Australian Red Cross Lifeblood Local Government Blood Drive.
By his side was CEO of Mackay Regional Council Gerrod Carlyon. This year marks the first time Mr Carlyon has personally taken part in the initiative since joining the organisation.
“Our staff love to get behind community initiatives, whether it’s the blood donation initiative or a whole range of other things we do in the community.” Mr Carylon said.
“It’s really important that we support this initiative as an organisation and a community.”
The blood drive began on April 1st and will run for three months, with council staff and community members encouraged to donate blood and plasma before it concludes on June 30th.
Australian Red Cross Lifeblood hopes more than 45 donations will be made locally during the campaign, with both Mayor Williamson and Mr Carlyon helping boost the tally.
Mayor Williamson said council was proud to once again support the initiative, setting a friendly challenge to exceed last year's effort of 33 donations.
"With one donation saving up to three lives, Mackay Regional Council made a great impact last year, saving up to 99 lives," Mayor Williamson said.
"Our staff and community are once again stepping up to support this extremely critical service, and I strongly encourage others to donate as well. We have a very generous community in our region," he said.
Mr Carlyon also reflected on the strong community spirit within the organisation.
"I feel privileged to lead a team that promotes giving back and recognises the value of giving blood and plasma for the community," Mr Carlyon said.
"Well done to our wonderful staff that have donated so far. Their generosity is already making a real difference," he said.
Australian Red Cross Lifeblood North Queensland spokesperson Gwendolyne Camaret said local government organisations consistently showed strong leadership in community giving.
"We know Mackay Regional Council has many incredible donors already and we look forward to welcoming first-time donors who are inspired to donate as part of this blood drive too," Gwen said.
"New blood donors are always needed, especially during winter," she said.
"At this time of year many of our regular donors are sick with colds and flu, but the need for blood doesn't stop.
"There are more than 200 appointments available to donate at Lifeblood's Mackay Donor Centre in the next two weeks."
The demand for blood products continues to rise as the population grows, with Australian Red Cross Lifeblood requiring around 33,000 donations each week to meet patient needs across Australia.
Cancer treatment, emergency surgery, road trauma and bleeding during childbirth are among the most common uses for donated blood.
"With one in three people needing blood in their lifetime, you never know when it might be a family member, a neighbour or someone from your community who needs it," Gwen added.
"Every drop counts and all it takes is an hour of your time."
Privately positioned amongst secluded tropical surrounds on an expansive 9,661m² parcel, 46 Braemar Road is a truly rare lifestyle sanctuary where luxury, privacy and resort-style living come together in perfect harmony.
Designed as an exclusive private retreat, this architecturally unique residence showcases rich natural timbers, soaring ceilings, handcrafted finishes and seamless indoor-outdoor living throughout. Every space has been thoughtfully designed to embrace the natural setting, creating an atmosphere of complete tranquillity and escape, while practical additions including solar power enhance the home’s lifestyle appeal.
At the heart of the home, spacious open-plan living and dining zones connect effortlessly through oversized glass openings to spectacular outdoor entertaining areas. A stunning resort-style swimming pool, elevated spa deck, sauna and established tropical gardens combine to create a private oasis unlike anything else currently on the market.
The home offers four bedrooms, including a beautifully separated fourth bedroom ideal as a guest retreat, teenager’s escape, studio or private home office. The luxurious master suite comes complete with a walk-in wardrobe and a resort-style open ensuite featuring stone basins, a freestanding bath and tranquil garden outlooks.
Warm timber finishes, polished hardwood flooring, woven feature walls and bespoke architectural details combine to create a home with exceptional character and atmosphere rarely found in modern properties.
Property features include:
• Four-bedroom lifestyle residence
• Luxurious master retreat with designer ensuite and freestanding bath
• Solar power for enhanced energy efficiency
• Resort-style swimming pool, elevated spa deck and sauna
• Expansive entertaining spaces surrounded by established gardens
• Open-plan living and dining with seamless indoor-outdoor connection
• Spacious walk-in pantry with integrated functional laundry
• Two-bay carport with additional rear tool storage
• Privately positioned on 9,661m² of secluded land
• Peaceful acreage setting with a luxury retreat-style ambience
This is a premium lifestyle home that combines space, seclusion, and standout features rarely found in one property.
A property of this calibre is not to be missed. Enquire today to experience the lifestyle on offer.
FOR SALE: AUCTION: (02/06/26 – 6pm)
ADDRESS: 46 Braemar Road, Mount Julian, QLD 4800
CONTACT: Hannah Kimber – 0411 599 126 hannah@tpsre.com.au
Rob Taylor - 0428 466 124 rob@taylorspropertyspecialists.com.au
Dignitaries and guest speakers all came together to create a special day at the third annual State of the Region event. Photo supplied
More than 200 business, industry and community leaders gathered at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre last Friday for Whitsunday Regional Council’s State of the Region 2026 Think Big event - a day focused on growth, opportunity and the future of the region.
Featuring Olympic athletes, government ministers, tourism leaders and local students, the event explored major topics including economic development, workforce readiness and the opportunities surrounding the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
“We’ve got momentum, vision and opportunity, this region is ready to think big and deliver,” said Mayor Ry Collins.
Paul McLaughlin/ Craig Barker / Mike Aviet / Marlene Reiffel
The Think Big State of the Region seminar brought together representatives from across the region to share ideas, build connections and show their support for future growth.
Photo credit: Rachael Smith
Sharon Ashman
When we talk about helping children and adolescents thrive, we often focus on academic success. Yet, it’s the everyday skills, such as how they manage emotions, make decisions, and connect with others, that shape their long-term wellbeing.
Life skills are the practical, social, and emotional abilities that allow individuals to navigate challenges, build relationships, and respond to life with flexibility. These include self-awareness, empathy, problem-solving, communication, and stress management. Together, they form the foundation for resilience.
For many young people, these skills don’t develop automatically. They are shaped through experience, guidance, and opportunities to practice in safe, supportive environments. Those who can recognise when they feel overwhelmed, pause, and ask for help are already building a protective factor against future mental health difficulties.
Importantly, life skills are not about being “perfect” or always making the right choice. They are about learning how to reflect, adjust, and try again. This is especially relevant in today’s world, where young people are navigating social pressures, digital environments, and increasing expectations.
Providing opportunities to build life skills early creates lasting benefits: it builds confidence in expressing themselves, adaptability when things don’t go to plan, and increased capacity to form healthy relationships. These are not just “nice to have” skills—they are essential for wellbeing, independence, and a meaningful life. See next fortnight for practical tips in building life skills
“If you’d like more support, visit my website https://www.personaltransitions.com.au/ or give me a call 0418708214.”NDIS FRIENDLY
Three-year-old Oscar is searching for a calm and caring forever home where he can finally relax and enjoy the comforts of indoor life.
This handsome domestic short hair male spent the first few years of his life surviving on the streets before being taken into care after appearing injured. Since then, Oscar has been learning that people can be kind, and with patience, soft blankets and regular meals, his gentle personality is beginning to shine through.
While still a little shy, Oscar is making steady progress and would suit a quiet adult household willing to give him the time and space he needs to settle in. Rescue carers say he is best suited to someone experienced with cats who understands that trust takes time.
Oscar is a medium-sized cat with a low-to-medium energy level. He is not suited to homes with children, while his compatibility with other cats and dogs has not yet been tested.
He has been desexed, vaccinated and microchipped, and is ready to begin the next chapter of his life with a patient and loving owner.
Oscar’s adoption fee is $190.
If interested, please contact Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc.
Make a difference as a volunteer with the PCYC Whitsunday Braking the Cycle program Photo source: Facebook
PCYC Whitsunday have put out a call for volunteer driver mentors to participate in their ‘Braking the Cycle’ program.
Braking the Cycle is a program that aims to support learner drivers who do not have access to a supervisor or registered vehicle to complete their logbook hours.
Participants are matched with volunteer mentors who provide driving instruction to facilitate learner drivers obtaining their license.
The Braking the Cycle Program currently operates across 53 locations including the Whitsundays and Bowen and to date has conducted over 43,000 driving sessions with over 3000 learner drivers.
Support for learner drivers who may lack access to resources required to obtain their license is vital. Having a driver’s license helps to provide young people with increased employment opportunities and community connection.
If you are interested in becoming a mentor, you will need:
PCYC are able to assist volunteers in obtaining a Queensland Blue Card (also known as a working with children’s check) which is required to become a mentor.
Mentorship is not just about driving instruction – it is a means of providing guidance, encouragement and improving self-esteem.
If you are interested, do not hesitate to contact PCYC Whitsunday via phone – 044849377 or email – whitsunday@pcyc.org.au.
Michael and Angus believe it is important to make the most of the opportunities provided by school. Photo supplied
Year 7 scholarship recipients Angus Dunn and Michael Groves sat down with Principal Mr Harris and answered some questions regarding their experiences at school so far. Here’s what they had to say:
What’s it like being in Year 7 at Bowen State High School?
Michael: It’s fun, it can be challenging, it’s exciting, its different than primary school, which isn’t a bad thing.
Angus: It’s new and larger than my primary school. But I like it a lot.
What are you enjoying the most about Secondary School?
Michael: All the extra activities that we have, for example, the Academy, the flight simulators, and the Tournament of Minds.
Angus: I really like my Year 7 Academy class, where we are currently learning coding through Spike Lego.
What opportunities have you had at school already this year?
Michael: Academy Class, The Regional Forum in Bowen and the State of the Region Forum in Proserpine where I got to meet Cate Campbell.
Angus: I was fortunate to meet Olympians at the State of the Region forum last week and also met important people in Bowen, including the Mayor.
What’s the hardest thing about coming to high school?
Michael: Adjusting from Primary School to High School. It is a bigger school with more classrooms.
Angus: Definitely waking up earlier. Because it is a bigger school, you have to adjust to the different lessons.
What supports are available for students at Bowen High?
Michael: We have a Student Services, for any needs or worries, and there’s Bibigoo Yumba, for if you’ve forgotten your lunch or just to hang around with friends.
Angus: Bibigoo Yumba and Student Services are places for students to go if they need to talk to someone or get support. There are a lot of people to talk to for support.
If you could be Principal for one day, what would you like to see changed at Bowen High?
Michael: If I was Principal for one day I would want to get the Flight Simulators back up and running.
Angus: I would like to see improvements to the school toilets for everyone to enjoy.
What is one piece of advice you would give to Year 6 students who are coming to High school next year?
Michael: Come to school happy. Don’t think ‘This is going to be hard; I don’t want to come to school today.’ Because at the end of the day, school is as fun as you make it.
Angus: Be confident and have a great time. Enjoy all your subjects as they are different to primary school.
Whitsundays business leaders say rising costs, workforce shortages, transport challenges and regulatory pressures are continuing to impact small and family businesses across the region during Queensland Small Business Month. Photo credit: Mackay and Whitsunday Life
May marks Queensland Small Business Month, a government-led initiative established to celebrate and support the more than 508,000 small and family businesses that help strengthen local communities and drive the State’s economy.
In the Whitsunday Shire, however, business leaders say many operators are continuing to face mounting pressures, from rising costs and workforce shortages to transport challenges and regulatory complexity.
Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry Executive Officer Dr Julia Evans said regional businesses are often operating with fewer resources while navigating increasingly difficult conditions.
“All local businesses are facing a combination of immediate pressures and long-standing structural challenges that are now being amplified,” explained Dr Evans.
“At a practical level, rising fuel costs and reduced aviation access are impacting visitor numbers, freight, and the cost of doing business. Fewer flights into the region, higher transport costs, and shifting consumer confidence are making it harder to attract visitors and service the community, while also affecting supply chains and day-to-day operations.”
Dr Evans said businesses were also continuing to grapple with red tape and regulatory complexity, making it harder to adapt quickly in changing economic conditions. She said regional infrastructure gaps, particularly around transport connectivity, housing availability and essential services, were also constraining growth and workforce stability, while attracting and retaining skilled staff remained a significant challenge in a high-cost regional environment.
Access to fair and flexible finance was another growing concern, particularly for small operators managing rising expenses and uncertain trading conditions.
At the same time, Dr Evans said many businesses were eager to grow through export markets, digital capability and national expansion, but required stronger support systems to make that possible.
“Recent events have reinforced the need for stronger business interruption support and resilience planning, particularly in the face of natural disasters and ongoing disruptions,” she said
“At the same time, there is increasing pressure — and opportunity — to adopt sustainable practices, both to manage costs and meet evolving visitor expectations.
“In short, the Whitsundays business community is not facing a single issue — they are managing a complex environment where cost pressures, access, workforce, infrastructure, and confidence all intersect. Addressing these challenges requires coordinated action across all levels of government, with a clear focus on regional conditions and opportunities.”
Dr Evans said support that helped businesses cut through red tape, streamline compliance and access trusted business advice was “not just valued — it’s essential.”
In recognition of current circumstances, this year’s Queensland Small Business Month campaign is focused on providing practical support to help businesses build resilience and identify new opportunities, with more than 180 events and a suite of digital resources are being rolled out statewide.
Queensland Small Business Commissioner Nicolle Kelly said feedback from regional and remote businesses was already shaping conversations at the highest levels of government.
“Unsurprisingly, one issue that has been consistently raised is fuel supply and price volatility,” she said.
“This challenge is having a tangible impact, particularly on businesses in regional and remote communities, influencing factors such as transport costs and customer demand. We’re currently gathering feedback from stakeholders to develop a comprehensive understanding of what’s happening on the ground, and I encourage you to continue to send examples and information to us.”
More information about Queensland Small Business Month events and resources is available via www.business.qld.gov.au/running-business/support-services/business-events/qsbm.
Last week’s State of the Region event was an absolute ripper and without doubt one of the strongest signals yet that the Whitsundays is thinking bigger, aiming higher and shaping its own future.
More than 200 business, industry and community leaders came together at the
Proserpine Entertainment Centre for Council’s third annual event, and the energy in the room was something special.
This wasn’t just another talk fest. It was about bringing the right people together, building partnerships, creating confidence and making sure the Whitsundays is firmly in the conversation when it comes to regional growth, investment and Brisbane Olympics 2032 opportunities.
The theme was simple — thinking big and that’s exactly what our region is doing.
From economic development and new investment opportunities to our bold push to position the Whitsundays as the Home of Olympic Sailing for the 2032 Games, the message was clear: this region is not waiting for the future, we are actively shaping it.
It was fantastic to welcome Minister Amanda Camm, Minister Dale Last, Small Business Commissioner Dominique Lamb, Olympic champions and industry leaders to the event.
Hearing firsthand that the Whitsundays is already ahead of many others in embracing the Olympic opportunity was incredibly encouraging and reinforces that our region is on the right track.
Just as importantly, we also brought almost 100 student leaders into the conversation, ensuring our next generation is part of shaping what comes next.
That future focus continued the following day when Council helped coordinate a special swim clinic with four-time Olympic gold medallist Cate Campbell at the Proserpine Pool.
Seeing around 80 young local swimmers inspired by one of Australia’s great athletes was a fantastic reminder that big dreams start in regional communities like ours.
Council is committed to backing our young people, our sporting future and our broader regional growth.
The Whitsundays is on the rise.
We’ve got momentum, vision and opportunity and if last week proved anything, it’s that this region is ready to think big and deliver.
Budget Season Is Approaching — What Can Regional Businesses Expect?
From Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Allan Milostic
As federal, state, and local governments prepare to hand down their annual budgets, attention is turning to what the next 12 months could mean for regional businesses, infrastructure, workforce development, and economic growth.
For the Whitsundays, this year’s budget season arrives at a time of increasing pressure on businesses facing rising operating costs, workforce shortages, housing constraints, fuel uncertainty impacts, and shifting consumer confidence. At the same time, the region continues to experience strong population growth, major private investment, and expanding demand across tourism, construction, health, and services.
So what can regional businesses expect?
Cost of Living and Cost of Doing Business Relief
Across all levels of government, the Chamber anticipates continued focus on cost-of-living measures. However, regional businesses will be looking closely at whether support also addresses the growing cost of doing business — including energy, insurance, freight, workforce, and fuel pressures.
There is likely to be increasing discussion around regional resilience and supply chain security, particularly following recent fuel concerns and natural disaster impacts across Queensland.
Infrastructure Investment Will Remain a Priority
Regional infrastructure is expected to remain high on the agenda, particularly projects linked to transport connectivity, housing, community infrastructure, and public services.
For the Whitsundays, investment in roads, aviation connectivity, workforce accommodation, health services, and digital infrastructure will remain critical to supporting both economic growth and liveability.
Businesses will also be watching for commitments that improve freight efficiency and strengthen regional supply chains.
Workforce and Skills Pressures Continue
Workforce attraction and retention will likely remain one of the strongest themes across upcoming budgets.
Governments are expected to continue investing in skills, apprenticeships, training pathways, and workforce participation initiatives. For regional areas, the challenge remains not only attracting workers, but ensuring there is adequate housing, transport, childcare, and community infrastructure to support long-term workforce stability.
Support for Small and Family Business
With Queensland Small Business Month underway, there is growing recognition of the role small and family businesses play in regional economies.
Businesses will be hoping to see practical measures that reduce red tape, simplify compliance, improve access to finance, support digital capability, and long-term sustainability.
The effectiveness of these measures will ultimately depend on how accessible and regionally relevant programs and resources are for businesses on the ground.
Regional Advocacy Matters
Budget season is also a reminder of the importance of strong regional advocacy.
Funding and policy decisions are shaped by the issues raised consistently and collectively by regional communities, industry groups, and business organisations. Ensuring the Whitsundays’ priorities remain visible at all levels of government is critical to securing investment and support that reflects the realities of doing business in regional Queensland.
While budgets cannot solve every challenge overnight, they do provide an important indication of government priorities, economic confidence, and where future opportunities may emerge for regional communities like the Whitsundays.
Contributed with thanks to Allan Milostic, President of Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce & Industry
The Whitsunday Counselling and Support team with Mayor Ry Collins and Councillor Jan Clifford.
Last week the Whitsunday Counselling and Support organisation hosted their annual Candle Lighting Ceremony in Cannonvale to mark the beginning of Domestic and Family Violence Prevention month.
Each May, the annual initiative aims to raise awareness of domestic and family violence and coercive control. The theme for 2026’s DFV month is: Together Queenslanders can prevent domestic and family violence.
The event saw attendance from Mayor Ry Collins, Cr Jan Clifford and representatives from the Whitsunday Police Station and Whitsunday Counselling and Support.
An acknowledgement of country was provided by Vicky Brimble (Koa Banburi) with music performed by Nicke Di Gregorio.
Manager of Counselling Services at Whitsunday Counselling and Support Sharon Parker presented a powerful speech as she memorialised those lost, and put forward a call to action.
“In our commemoration today, I would ask you to not just think about these deaths as statistics, but to reflect on the people behind the statistics,” Sharon said.
“These were real people, with lives that mattered. They mattered.”
Clothes were displayed to mark the individuals who tragically lost their lives to domestic violence. A list was provided of individuals across Australia who had lost their lives to domestic and family violence over the past two years, with many of the cases still ongoing.
“This is not a comfortable thing to do,” Sharon said.
“I know that whilst compiling this list I got emotional thinking about the victims. However, commemoration is important, as without discomfort, we are rarely moved enough emotionally to make change.”
Sharon defined domestic and family violence, to improve awareness across the region.
“Domestic and family violence is behaviour that occurs between people who are, or have been, in a domestic or family relationship. It is not just physical violence. It can include abuse that is emotional, financial or sexual. Tragically, it can have fatal consequences.”
The speech touched on societal factors that contribute to domestic and family violence.
“We did not arrive here suddenly. This harm has been shaped over time by gender inequality, rigid power structures and attitudes that have normalised control, silence and excuse making,” Sharon shared.
“Misogynistic beliefs and patriarchal standards – when left unchallenged – can normalise control, silence and violence, particularly within homes and relationships.
“Such attitudes can affect women’s safety both at home and in public. Many women live with the risk of domestic and family violence and often are making constant decisions with behaviour, routine or clothes – just to feel safe.”
Sharon has also addressed the impacts of patriarchy and misogyny on men.
“For men it is also harmful. It creates pressure to fit into narrow ideas of masculinity which may discourage men from expressing feelings, showing vulnerability or asking for help. These expectations can negatively affect men’s mental health, relationships and wellbeing. Patriarchy can also limit men’s freedom take on caring roles, seek support or live in ways that don’t fit traditional gender stereotypes.”
Sharon then put forward a call to action, advising community members on how they could show their support.
“Each of us has a role to play. Speaking up matters. We must all challenge sexist or violent language. Refusing to make excuses matters. Listening, believing and supporting survivors matters. Changes comes when individuals choose to reject attitudes that devalue, dismiss or endanger others.
“So today, I challenge you with this call to action. I challenge you to reflect on how you view domestic and family. I challenge you to examine everyday behaviours, attitudes and conversations – and to choose to do better. Real change happens when individuals are willing to challenge what feels familiar and take responsibility for creating safer, more respectful relationships and communities.”
On Thursday, a roundtable was led by the DFV Prevention Council at Shute Harbour Marine Terminal. The stakeholder roundtable focused on domestic and family violence (DFV) primary prevention, with a strong emphasis on community-led approaches and collaboration across the region.
The session brought together a range of local leaders and stakeholders, including representatives from council, police, community services and state agencies, to discuss opportunities for strengthening prevention efforts across communities including Airlie Beach/Cannonvale, Proserpine and Bowen.
The focus was to identify local drivers of DFV, map community strengths and resources and explore practical, place-based solutions to help prevent violence before it starts.
If you or someone you know is in a dangerous or life-threatening situation, call Triple Zero (000). If you don’t want to speak to the police you can also call DV Connect on 1800 811 811 or 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732 (24 hours, 7 days a week). You can also go to the Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month website for more details and support.
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