Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Photo credit: R Jean Photography
Full list of 2026 Whitsunday Tourism Award Winners
3 - 3.5 Star Accommodation
GOLD: Magnums Accommodation Airlie Beach
SILVER: Bounce Airlie Beach
BRONZE: Palm Bungalows, Hamilton Island
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation
GOLD: Mirage Whitsundays
SILVER: Reef View Hotel
BRONZE: at Water's Edge Resort
5 Star Luxury Accommodation
GOLD: The Sundays, Hamilton Island
SILVER: Beach Club, Hamilton Island
BRONZE: qualia, Hamilton Island
Attractions
GOLD: Coral Sea Marina
SILVER: Hamilton Island Golf Club
BRONZE: Hamilton Island Yacht Club
Bareboating
GOLD: Whitsunday Escape
SILVER: Portland Roads Sailing the Whitsundays
BRONZE: Cumberland Charter Yachts
Caravan and Holiday Parks
GOLD: BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort
SILVER: Whitsunday Holiday Park - Proserpine
BRONZE: Whitsunday Holiday Parks - Lake Proserpine
Day Tours - On Land
GOLD: Whitsunday Segway Tours
SILVER: Airlie Adventure Tours
BRONZE: Falls to Paradise
Day Tours - On Water
GOLD: Whitsunday Jetski Tours
SILVER: Wings Sailing Charters Whitsundays
Bronze: Ocean Rafting
Overnight Crewed Sailing
GOLD: OzSail Whitsundays
SILVER: True Blue Sailing
BRONZE: Whitsunday Expeditions
Restaurants and Catering
GOLD: Eastwoods Dining
SILVER: Bommie Restaurant
Bronze: The Garden Bar Bistro
Retail and Services
GOLD: Above and Below Gallery
SILVER: Whitsunday Holidays
Self-Contained Accommodation
GOLD: Peninsula Airlie Beach
SILVER: Whitsunday Apartments, Hamilton Island
BEONZE: Yacht Club Villas
Transport
GOLD: Scamper Island Camping
SILVER: Heart of Reef Shuttles Whitsunday's
BRONZE: Airlie Beach Transfers & Tours
Unique Accommodation
GOLD: Elysian Retreat
SILVER: Silver Shoals Island Lodge
BRONZE: Whitsunday Sands Resort
Brooke Miles couldn’t be at the Whitsunday Tourism Awards to accept Above and Below Gallery’s gold, but the wedding reception she was photographing became an unexpected place to celebrate.
“I started jumping around the wedding reception like a winner!” Brooke said.
“The MC even did a shout out to the wedding reception!”
The gallery’s second consecutive Gold in Retail & Services brought an emotional moment for its founder.
“Such an incredible feeling – and a little teary!” Brooke said.
“There’s a lot of hard work that goes on behind the scenes in a small business, so to have that recognised is super special.”
Brooke opened Above and Below Gallery in 2017, bringing together her love of photography and the Whitsundays in a space where she could share both with locals and visitors.
Her photographs capture the landscapes and marine life of the Whitsundays and Great Barrier Reef, giving customers a connection to the region through locally created art and gifts.
“Above and Below Gallery was built from a passion for photography and a desire to offer something a little different here in the Whitsundays,” Brooke said.
“To have that recognised within our local tourism industry is a huge honour, and it gives us even more motivation to keep growing and doing what we love.”
For Brooke, the joy comes from connecting people with her work and helping them find a keepsake that holds personal meaning.
“We want people to walk away with something meaningful that reminds them of their time here.”
Sharing in the win are Katie, Kerry, Susan and Eira, whose contributions Brooke was quick to recognise, alongside the customers who continue to support the gallery.
“Running a small business is never a one-person job, and I'm incredibly grateful to my people who help keep everything running.”
Geoff and Bernadette Wishart have plenty to celebrate, with their 28th wedding anniversary, a new tour launch and a bronze tourism award arriving in the same week.
The Airlie Beach Transfers owners were surprised to receive bronze in the Transport category at the 2026 Whitsunday Tourism Awards, just 22 months after purchasing the business.
“We were shocked and we felt rewarded for our hard work over the last 22 months,” Bernadette said.
Since taking over, the local couple have expanded their fleet with deluxe and luxury vehicles, while also employing nine new staff, on top of managing the challenge of rising fuel prices.
Their focus remains on looking after passengers, crediting the whole team for going above and beyond.
“It feels great to be recognised as a contributing business within our wonderful region for tourism,” Bernadette said.
That contribution also includes return shuttles to Bredl’s Wildlife and customised private day tours, and Airport shuttles and Private transfers door to door from the Whitsunday coastal airport, helping visitors experience all the beautiful corners of the Whitsundays.
Their services will only further expand with the launching of the Whitsundays Cellar Door Trail on Friday October 30, in partnership with Sollos Agave, Two Fathoms Brewing Company, 74 Islands Distillery and Dingo Beach Hotel.
The couple thanked their team, passengers and Tourism Whitsundays, and congratulated fellow nominees for their dedication to serving the region.
Some of OzSail’s team were out on the water looking after guests when the business won gold, making bringing the award home to them all the sweeter for Operations Manager Telana Thompson.
“This Gold belongs to the whole OzSail team, including the people who were out on the water looking after our guests while we were celebrating,” said Telana.
OzSail took the top honour in Overnight Crewed Sailing at the 2026 Whitsunday Tourism Awards, a moment Telana described as a mix of shock, excitement and pride.
Having spent more than five years with OzSail, Telena says while the award is based on the care everyone sees, it represents all the work done behind the scenes to make that happen.
“You know how much your team puts into the business, but hearing OzSail called for Gold was a pretty special moment,” she said.
Behind every departure are weather checks, maintenance and careful planning, before the crew brings each trip to life through snorkelling, new friendships and time on the water.
“The Whitsundays gives us an incredible setting, but our crew bring the trip to life through their knowledge, personalities and the way they look after people,” Telana said.
She also congratulated fellow nominees, acknowledging the work involved in delivering tourism experiences across the region.
“We know how much work goes into running a tourism business, and we have enormous respect for the operators alongside us,” Telana said.
The Ocean Rafting team had special reason to celebrate at the 2026 Whitsunday Tourism Awards, with owners Peter and Jan Claxton receiving the prestigious Bob Porter Award for Outstanding Contribution in recognition of their decades of dedication to the region.
With their names now alongside past winners such as Kevin Collins, Peter and Jan have added their own chapter to the award’s proud history.
For the couple, following in those footsteps was a humbling surprise, made all the more special by the tourism community that has helped them feel at home.
“We’ve only just always done what we wanted to do with our business, and with the people around us, and with the region,” Jan said.
“It was very surprising to hear that we’d won it.”
“If I think of all the other incredible people who’ve won it before, honestly, we felt very humbled and very pleased.”
Arriving from Africa almost 30 years ago, Peter and Jan were captivated by their first glimpse of the Whitsunday islands and the warm tropical air that greeted them.
Tourism was already familiar territory, through Peter’s work flying seaplanes in Cape Town and Jan’s upbringing around game reserves in Namibia, but their own arrival offered a lasting reminder of how special a visitor’s first experience can be.
“Peter’s favourite saying has always been to the staff, ‘It may be your hundredth day out there, but the people on your boat, it’s probably their first and maybe their only day in the Whitsundays. Consider that,’” Jan said.
That approach is now shared with the next generation, with Peter and Jan’s sons bringing fresh ideas and enthusiasm to the family business.
“They’ve changed everything for us,” Jan said.
“We’re really enjoying having them with us, as I don’t think we’d still be doing it if they weren’t with us.”
On top of the Bod Porter win, celebrations were shared by the whole Ocean Rafting family, with a bronze in the Day Tours – On Water category giving Peter, Jan, their sons and the crew another reason to be proud of what they’ve built together.
“You always hope your name will be called, but being surrounded by so many great operators, you don’t take anything for granted,” said Project and Marketing Manager Clem Claxton.
“After 29 years of sharing our beautiful backyard with visitors from around the world, taking home Bronze was a really proud moment for our Ocean Rafting family.”
Airlie Beach’s Coral Sea Marina has brought home a Gold Whitsundays Tourism Award in the Attractions category, in recognition of their commitment to creating a vibrant waterfront destination for everyone to enjoy.
As the gateway to the Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef, Coral Sea Marina is the first destination that many visitors lay their eyes on as they enter the region - and the team is proud of that honour.
Grand sunset views over the marina, early morning walks on the waterfront and the ease of jumping on a boat are the attributes that make the marina a major attraction.
“I think that’s what sets us apart- that Coral Sea Marina is more than a marina, it’s part of the Whitsunday experience,” said Joscelyn O’Keefe, Head of Marketing and business development at Coral Sea Marina.
“For some, it's that first breathtaking view of the marina and Coral Sea as they arrive in Airlie Beach. For others, it's the excitement of departing on a day tour or overnight sailing adventure that could be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”
Coral Sea Marina has become one of Australia's premier destination marinas under its current ownership, with Paul Darrouzet at the helm for the past 13 years, and Kate Preston as CEO.
They have continued to achieve evolving goals along the way by placing excellence, quality, and service into everything that they do.
“A particular highlight has been seeing the marina evolve beyond a traditional boating facility into a vibrant waterfront destination that is enjoyed by the wider community and visitors from around the world,” said Joscelyn.
Coral Sea Marina expressed their pride to be operating alongside the other businesses nominated in their category, and hope that this award will reinforce the importance of continuing to invest in the visitor experience.
“The Whitsundays is fortunate to have such a diverse range of exceptional tourism experiences, and it’s a privilege to be recognised alongside businesses that contribute so much to our region,” said Joscelyn.
Small family run business Scamper has proved just how mighty they are after winning in the transport category at the Tourism Whitsundays Awards.
Scamper provides services that help visitors connect with the beautiful islands and campsites of the Whitsundays, a niche service that can range from hiking the Ngaro Tack or exploring quieter regions.
The business has seen significant growth with the introduction of the Ngaro walks transfers and taking on Business Island transfers and the Vessel Dalengi, and servicing Palm Bay Resort, it's clear their award was well earned.
“Hearing our name was quite emotional. Tim and I have put so much into the business, especially this year, and it was a lovely moment to stop and appreciate how far we have come,” Sarah said.
“It recognises the hard work that happens behind the scenes, from planning around tides and weather to making sure our guests feel welcome, looked after and able to experience the best our natural environment has to offer. As a small, family-run business, having that effort recognised by our tourism community is incredibly rewarding.”
Despite the challenges of weather, tides and changing schedules, the Scamper team focused on personal care, local knowledge and their commitment to a holistic approach to nature-based tourism.
“We help guests with much more than their boat transfer, including camping equipment, advice and planning on their island adventure,” Sarah explained.
“We love pointing out where they might spot fascinating marine life, helping them recognise culturally significant sites and artefacts respectfully, and sharing the islands’ Traditional Owner history and connections to country.”
The Scamper Team believes that this comprehensive approach is the reason they won an award.
Giving visitors memorable experiences is what drives the Scamper team, as well as being part of a community that strives for tourism excellence.
“Congratulations to all the nominees. We know how much hard work goes into running a tourism business and were proud to be recognised alongside you. It’s wonderful to be part of a community that gives so many visitors so many memorable experiences.”
The team acknowledged fellow category nominees Heart of Reef Shuttles and Airlie Beach Transfers, thanking them for helping passengers connect from the mainland to their trips and for the working relationships that support a smooth journey for guests.
Operating for 12 years, the Whitsunday Segway Tours has just celebrated their first year as sole owners of the business. Alongside this achievement they hit the jackpot in the day tours – on land category at the Whitsundays Tourism awards.
For such a successful year for the Whitsunday Segway Tours, the team is sure to relish in their new achievements.
“It was a shock. We have been in the Whitsunday Tourism Awards in the past, but this year I was least confident about winning,” said owner Zak Kelly.
“It means recognition that we do our job well. We really do try our best, especially for every guest on their segway tour.”
However the success of the business didn’t come without its own set of challenges, as new E-mobility laws had shaken business operations, before they were thankfully amended.
Whitsunday Segway tours continues to be the only segway tour in Australia to operate within the Rainforest National Park, believing their unique business attitude is what won them the award.
“We’re also Eco Tourism certified and foremost we value customer satisfaction as highest priority and do everything we can to cater for our guests needs,” said Zak.
The Whitsundays Segway Tours celebrate their new win by thanking the valuable people behind the scenes and the Whitsunday community.
“None of this would have been possible without the support of my wife and her hard work and patience behind the scenes,” said Zak.
“She is truly amazing.”
Sunrises, sunsets and moonrises can all be enjoyed from Whitsunday Sands Resort’s peninsula setting, but behind the views is a team with plenty of heart.
The resort received bronze in Unique Accommodation at the 2026 Whitsunday Tourism Awards, a welcome surprise recognising more than seven years of work by managers Janet and John and their team.
“Winning the award was such a wonderful surprise and a really proud moment for us!” said Whitsundays Sand Resort manager, Janet Courtney.
Since taking on the resort, Janet and John have worked to turn it around, creating a welcoming place for guests to come unwind.
Seeing familiar faces return and hearing how much guests enjoyed their stay have been highlights for the team, with the bronze adding to their pride in how far the resort has come.
The resort also congratulated fellow nominees, acknowledging the passion and dedication shared across the region’s tourism industry.
“We’ve put our hearts into making this resort a place where people can relax, feel welcome and experience something truly special,” said Janet.
“This win makes all the hard work worthwhile, and we look forward to continuing to share our little piece of paradise with our guests for many years to come.”
BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort is celebrating another golden achievement, taking home Gold in the Caravan and Holiday Parks category at the 2026 Whitsunday Tourism Awards, held on Saturday evening at Elementa Whitsundays.
The award recognises the resort's ongoing commitment to exceptional holiday experiences, quality facilities and outstanding guest service.
Members of the resort team attended the gala celebration, proudly accepting the award on behalf of the family-owned and operated business.
With more than 60 tourism awards and Hall of Fame status at the Whitsunday, Queensland and Australian Tourism Awards, the resort continues to be recognised as a leading family holiday destination.
CEO Phil Casey said the award was a wonderful acknowledgement of the team's dedication.
"This is something our whole team can be incredibly proud of. Our staff go above and beyond every day to create memorable holiday experiences, and it's wonderful to see their commitment recognised.
"On behalf of the McKinnon family, I'd like to sincerely thank our exceptional team. Congratulations also to all finalists and winners, and thank you to Tourism Whitsundays, Bishopp and Elementa Whitsundays for a fantastic evening celebrating our tourism industry."
The Gold win comes during an exciting year, with the McKinnon family commencing a landmark $15 million resort expansion, introducing four spectacular new waterslides, an expansive lagoon pool with swim-up bar, café and dining precinct, state-of-the-art outdoor cinema and ten new three-bedroom cabins.
The resort remains fully operational throughout construction, with existing facilities and activities available for guests to enjoy. The construction area is securely fenced off, with works carefully managed to minimise guest disruption.
Having owned and operated the resort for more than 30 years, the McKinnon family continues to invest in its future.
This year has also welcomed exciting additions including the Froggy Express, a colourful trackless train with a wheelchair-accessible carriage, pickleball, new shaded jumping pillows, play equipment and a refreshed activities area.
With its expansion underway and growing collection of guest experiences, BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort looks forward to an exciting future while continuing to deliver award-winning hospitality.
At Elysian Retreat, gold belongs to the people preparing thoughtful meals, remembering guests’ preferences and keeping a remote island running, alongside the community supporting them across the water.
The Long Island retreat won Unique Accommodation at the Tourism Whitsundays Awards, with head chef Johan Rouwé and front of house lead and team duty manager Jeannine Zoebelein accepting the award.
“It was a really proud moment for our whole team,” said General Manager Alice Caulfield.
“This win belongs to people well beyond our payroll, from fellow operators and our suppliers to the staff at Shute Harbour Marine Terminal.”
Since opening in 2019, Elysian has navigated the pandemic and managed the daily demands of island life. Alice credits the generosity of neighbouring Palm Bay, local businesses and the wider community with helping the retreat find its feet.
Alice also thanked council for its guidance and Australian Maritime Safety Authority Whitsundays representative Abby Martin for her generous assistance with marine matters.
“What a blessing it is to have regulators who lead with education and are so committed to the people and community they look after.”
On the island, that same care shines through Johan’s cooking. Each meal reflects individual guests’ needs, with attention extending to details as delicate as cauliflower carved into trees.
“He builds each plate the way an artist creates a canvas,” Alice said.
“Johan, our head chef, has an out-of-this-world talent and a relentless drive towards mastery.”
Alongside him, Jeannine brings warmth, wine knowledge and an extraordinary memory to service, keeping track of dietary requirements and allergies for an ever-changing group of up to 20 guests.
“She lives and breathes hospitality,” Alice said.
“I think it would take four of me to run a front of house service the way Jeannine does so effortlessly. That is the beauty of Elysian: a team that is stronger than any one of us.”
Keeping everything operating is Brendan Pesch, who leads maintenance, facilities and operational management. His days can involve unloading barges, helping housekeeping, chatting with guests and tending injured wildlife.
“If Elysian is a ship, Brendan has been our captain, guiding the retreat and its people for four years now,” Alice said.
For Brendan, managing power, water and waste systems comes with satisfaction.
“Every challenge is a bit of a riddle, and there’s nothing better than cracking it,” Brendan said.
Brendan also thanked the tradespeople and contractors whose loyalty helps keep Elysian running.
“Mother Nature calls the shots out here, but we have the best support behind us,” said Brendan.
The team thanked the owners for investing in staff and preserving the island’s beauty, suppliers for keeping the retreat stocked, and Tourism Whitsundays for championing the region.
Staff accommodation on the mainland also gives the island crew somewhere to recharge during their days off, supporting the people whose dedication shapes every stay.
“For us, the award is a reflection of the resilience of Elysian and its people, and their perseverance to the dream,” Alice said.
For some guests, Hamilton Island is a place to bring the family together. For others, it offers a romantic escape, a memorable meal or time to switch off. That variety was celebrated at the 2026 Tourism Whitsundays Awards, with recognition across accommodation, dining, attractions and marketing.
“It was a wonderful surprise to see The Sundays, Beach Club and qualia take every spot in luxury accommodation,” said Director of Marketing Courtney Barry.
Reef View Hotel, Palm Bungalows, Bommie Restaurant, Hamilton Island Golf Club, Hamilton Island Yacht Club and Yacht Club Villas also received recognition.
For a destination welcoming holidaymakers for more than four decades, the results carry particular meaning because they reflect countless guests’ experiences.
“Our guests come here for precious time away, whether that’s a family holiday, a celebration or a chance to switch off,” courtney said.
“We want them to feel welcomed and looked after, and to leave with memories they’ll talk about long after they get home.”
The past 18 months have brought fresh reasons to visit, with The Sundays opened in April 2025, offering a relaxed stay for families, friends and couples, complementing Beach Club’s intimate adults-only experience and qualia’s private luxury.
Opening a hotel on an island brought challenges, from assembling a team to preparing every detail for its first guests. Seeing The Sundays embraced has made that effort especially rewarding.
Dining has evolved too, with Catseye Pool Club by Josh and Julie Niland, a reimagined Sails and refreshed island favourites. Five restaurants received AGFG Chef Hats this year, including two for Bommie.
Behind those experiences are the people whose care shapes each stay.
“Our people deserve the credit, from those welcoming guests to those working behind the scenes,” Courtney said.
“Thank you for the pride you take in your work and the warmth you bring to the island.”
Hamilton Island also thanked its guests, property owners, community and partners, recognising the shared effort behind a memorable Whitsundays holiday.
Two Council-owned holiday parks have been recognised at the Whitsunday Tourism Awards, joining an outstanding field of local operators celebrated for their contribution to the region.
Proserpine Holiday Park claimed silver and Lake Proserpine Holiday Park secured bronze at Saturday night's awards.
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the awards highlighted the depth and diversity of tourism experiences across the Whitsundays.
"We're fortunate to have so many passionate tourism operators who work hard every day to deliver memorable experiences and showcase what makes our region special," Mayor Collins said.
"From our world-famous islands and beaches to our inland towns, lakes and rural communities, there's so much to discover across the Whitsundays.
"And with our region set to host Olympic and Paralympic sailing in 2032, we have a wonderful opportunity to build on our reputation as a world-class destination.
"It's fantastic to see so many local operators recognised, and I congratulate all the winners and finalists who contribute so much to our regional economy."
Mayor Collins said the recognition of the two holiday parks was particularly pleasing.
"These parks encourage visitors to explore beyond the coastline, supporting local businesses and bringing economic benefits into our communities.
"Congratulations to our teams at both parks. Their efforts have been recognised alongside some of the best tourism operators in the Whitsundays."
The awards are a reminder of the people, businesses and experiences that make our region such a special place to visit.
Contributed with thanks to Franice Tuddenham.
A warm welcome and care for the details has helped Peninsula Airlie Beach take gold in Self-Contained Accommodation at the 2026 Whitsunday Tourism Awards.
Owners Paul and Francine Tuddenham, who took over in July 2021, learnt quickly that working hard and giving a personalised service, like walking guest to their units, showing them where to park, explaining the Fobs, basically, adopting the approach, to treat the guests the way we wanted to be treated, was the way to go.
“It is a recognition of the hard work that gets done by yourselves and your team,” Paul said.
“We are supported by the most amazing people, namely Dorothy our Front Office Manager, & Whitsunday Property Care- Justin, Ploy, Peita and the crew. They all work tirelessly and are Meticulous at what they do.
“Francine and I have worked really hard to establish the business the way that we have, and we are so lucky to have a team that share the same values that we do.
Since taking over, the pair have worked to earn property owners’ trust and create somewhere guests want to return to.
Guest service sits at the centre of that effort, alongside careful attention to the buildings and gardens and strong relationships with the owners who entrust their properties to the team.
With fuel prices and airfares putting pressure on holiday budgets, the team wants every stay to feel like it was worth fitting it into the budget.
“Guest services is the focal point, treating guests the way we want to be treated,” Paul said.
Paul also congratulated fellow nominees, acknowledging the effort involved in running a successful tourism business and the need to keep improving.
“We do not take success for granted and we know we need to keep up the efforts, and strive to keep improving” Paul said
Photos supplied: Robert Harris
Contributed with thanks by Robert Harris
Bowen State High School’s 66th Academic Awards Ceremony was held on Tuesday 20th October, with McKenna Hall filled with students, staff, parents, and families gathered to celebrate the outstanding achievements of the 2026 school year.
The evening recognised student success across academic, cultural, artistic and leadership pursuits, highlighting not only achievement, but also the dedication and character shown by students throughout the year.
Guests were welcomed by a performance from the Bowen State High School instrumental band, setting the tone for a memorable celebration. Speeches from P&C President Ben Vandenberg, members of the Student Council Executive and Principal Mr Rob Harris officially commenced the evening.
In his address, Mr Harris reflected on what it means to be prepared for all things, reminding those in attendance that the ceremony was about far more than awards and recognition alone. He spoke of the importance of effort, persistence, courage and kindness, and congratulated students for their hard work and commitment across academic studies, the arts, culture and leadership.
The ceremony provided an opportunity for the school community to come together and acknowledge the many talents and contributions of Bowen State High School students. It was also a chance to recognise the strong support of families, staff and the wider community in helping students to thrive.
Bowen State High School extended its sincere thanks to the generous businesses and individuals who provided donations for the awards, whose support helped make the evening possible.
The 66th Academic Awards Ceremony was a fitting celebration of excellence, commitment and community spirit, and a proud reflection of the values upheld by Bowen State High School.
If your weekends involve exploring new walking tracks and fresh air, Maple would love an invitation.
This two-year-old Red Cattle cross has a ready smile and plenty of enthusiasm for whatever the day brings, especially if she gets the opportunity to meet some new faces.
Found wandering near Brandon with no one coming forward to claim her, Maple is now looking for a home where she can exhaust her playful nature.
She walks nicely on her lead and would love an active home where walks are just the start, with games and regular adventures to keep her busy.
An active family or a home on acreage could be a great match, with secure six-foot fencing to keep her safe and perhaps another dog to share in the fun.
If Maple sounds like your next adventure companion, message Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue with your name, phone number and “Maple” to begin the adoption process.
There are few more visible signs of the strength of our visitor economy than a cruise ship sitting off Airlie Beach and Shute Harbour with thousands of passengers preparing to come ashore.
With around 90 cruise ship visits expected across the Whitsundays each year, cruise tourism has become an important part of our regional economy.
A single ship can carry several thousand passengers, and when even a portion of those visitors spend on tours, hospitality, retail, transport and local attractions, the benefit spreads well beyond the waterfront.
November also marks the beginning of the busy cruise season at our Council-owned Shute Harbour Marine Terminal, with eight ships scheduled during the month and a strong program continuing through to April.
The opportunity is broader than tourism alone.
Cruise visitation supports local transport operators, cafes and restaurants, retailers, tour businesses and the many suppliers that help service the visitor economy. It also gives thousands of people a first taste of the Whitsundays — and an opportunity for us to turn a short visit into a reason to return.
That is why infrastructure like Shute Harbour matters.
As our cruise market continues to grow, we need to think strategically about how we improve the visitor experience, support local businesses and capture more of the economic value created by each visit.
The Whitsundays already has one of the most recognisable destinations in Australia.
The opportunity now is to make sure more of that visitation translates into local jobs, local spending and repeat visitors.
Regional employers, education and training providers, industry groups, and government representatives will come together in November to explore practical ways to strengthen workforce availability, skills and career pathways across the Whitsundays.
Hosted by the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry and TAFE Queensland, the Whitsundays Workforce Exchange will be held from 9am to 11am on Thursday 12 November 2026, at TAFE Queensland’s Whitsunday campus.
The event will bring organisations together to share workforce intelligence, showcase existing programs and resources, identify skills gaps, and explore opportunities to better connect local people with employment and training.
The Exchange will also explore opportunities for stronger collaboration, including interest in establishing a Regional Recruitment, Training and Skills Working Group to shape ongoing advocacy, projects, and the future Jobs Fair and Careers Expo.
Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry Executive Officer, Dr Julia Evans, said collaboration was essential to building a workforce that meets the needs of local businesses and supports the region’s future.
“We need to connect the dots between what businesses need, the skills available, and the resources already in our region,” Julia said.
“The aim is to move beyond identifying challenges and start strengthening connections and put shared priorities into action.”
Employers, schools, training and employment providers, government agencies, chambers, industry organisations, and others involved in workforce development are encouraged to attend.
The event will conclude with networking and an opportunity to identify next steps.
What: Whitsundays Workforce Exchange
When: 9am–11am, Thursday 12 November 2026
Where: TAFE Queensland, Whitsunday campus
Who: Regional employers, education and training providers, schools, employment services, government and industry organisations, and workforce development stakeholders.
Registration: FREE. Morning tea provided. RSVP admin@whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au
Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm has stepped down from her role as Minister for Child Safety and the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence, in an effort to prioritise her health and wellbeing amongst intense scrutiny.
She will continue in her role as Member for Whitsunday.
The announcement comes a fortnight after Ms Camm returned from six weeks of medical leave following major surgery, with the Whitsunday MP recognising she needed more time to recover.
“This has been a considered and deeply personal decision,” Ms Camm said.
“Having returned from six weeks of medical leave following major surgery I have come to recognise that my recovery still has some way to go and I need to prioritise my health and wellbeing.”
“I sincerely thank the Premier for the opportunity to serve in his Government and for his support of my decision.”
During a press conference outside of Parliament house in Brisbane Ms Camm added that the pressures of ministerial work had contributed to her decision to step down.
Her resignation follows months of intense scrutiny over conditions in childcare, such as alleged children sleeping on the floors of child safety offices and funding cuts to the domestic and family violence prevention sector in the latest state budget.
Addressing that scrutiny, Ms Camm drew a distinction between public accountability and the personal treatment she said she had experienced.
“Public scrutiny and accountability are essential to democracy and to our institutions,” she said.
“Harassment, threats, bullying and personal vilification are not and for the past year this has been my experience.”
Her comments, which hit the news alongside the recent attack on Victorian MP Helen Haines, has opened up questions to the treatment of women in the public eye, with one Whitsunday local speaking up.
“Seriously why do we target competent women in public service in ways that are cruel and downright disgusting to this point?” said Katelyn Aslett.
“Regardless of your political view a good democracy needs debate and scrutiny for sure but not threats, violence, bullying and harassment. I am just at a loss for how this has become the norm.”
During her time in office Ms Camm oversaw reforms to child protection, overseeing the Government’s response to the Child Safety Commission of Inquiry, which delivered 52 recommendations for improving the system.
Her work in domestic and family violence included introducing laws for electronic monitoring of perpetrators to strengthen accountability. Ms Camm was also praised by Premier David Crisafulli for the doubling of calls answered by the DVConnect helpline.
In a statement following her decision to resign from the ministerial position, Premier Crisafulli praised her work across both portfolios, describing the child safety inquiry’s reform roadmap as her greatest legacy.
“I thank Amanda for her service to Queensland firstly as a Shadow Minister and then as a Minister,” Mr Crisafulli said.
“Amanda took on an enormous task with a Child Safety system in crisis and a state in need of domestic violence reform.
“With her dedication, passion and commitment, she has put Queensland on the road to repair both.
“I speak on behalf of the Government, the LNP and all Queenslanders in wishing her the best in her recovery.”
Ms Camm will continue serving as the Member for Whitsunday, reaffirming her commitment to the local community.
“I remain committed to the people of Whitsunday as their Member of Parliament, and to supporting the Premier and the Government in delivering a fresh start for Queensland,” she said.
It’s been a long year for the Whitsundays Wind Farm Action Group, with community campaigning, changes to Alinta Energy’s Mt Challenger proposal and a council refusal marking a fight residents say is far from over.
The announcement of Alinta Energy’s Mt Challenger Wind Farm proposal in October 2025 captured the attention of the wider community and prompted residents near the proposed sites to question what turbines could mean for their homes and farms.
In the months that followed, residents organised meetings, wrote submissions and sought answers about potential impacts on their properties, farming operations and the environment. A petition opposing the proposal gathered more than 6,000 signatures.
The group says transparency was a concern from the outset, with residents reporting they were initially told both wind farm sites were needed for the project to be viable and that Alinta was not pursuing solar in the area.
By July, the proposal had changed, with Alinta withdrawing plans for turbines across the southern section at Crystal Brook and Kelsey Creek after six months of wind monitoring found insufficient wind resources.
"This is a very significant deal for our community today," said Alysha Lee, member of the Whitsundays wind farm action group at the time of the withdrawal.
"Our family was two weeks away from moving back into our renovated farmhouse when we got this letter in the mail telling us about this elusive Mt Challenger wind farm.
“We haven't enjoyed a single day in our newly renovated house without the threat of a wind farm encroaching on our home."
The 23rd September saw next milestone, with Whitsunday Regional Council unanimously refused Alinta’s application for a 160-metre meteorological mast intended to measure wind conditions in the northern project area.
“For me, it came down to the size and visibility of the structure, the rural character of the area and what we heard from the people who live there,” said Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins after the decision.
“After weighing all of that up, I wasn’t satisfied that a structure of that scale in that location was the right planning outcome.”
With those milestones behind them, the group is now calling on Alinta to withdraw the remaining northern proposal near Bowen, saying families there deserve the same relief felt by southern neighbours.
“Dropping one section of the project does not erase that stress or resolve it for those still affected,” the group said.
“Our position has not changed, as this is still the wrong location for a wind farm.”
The group is also awaiting the final version of Council’s proposed Community Benefit Agreement Policy, hoping it will set clearer expectations for developers and ensure the needs of residents living alongside major energy projects are properly considered.
While welcoming the progress achieved over the past year, the group remained steadfast in its campaign.
“We will continue to keep people informed, raise questions, and share concerns,” the group said, thanking the community for its ongoing support.
Andrew Willcox MP and Eli Wallis. Photo supplied: Andrew Willcox
Proserpine teenager Eli Wallis is swapping his familiar school run for the cobbled streets of Prague, during a three month adventure on his first overseas trip without his family.
The 15-year-old Proserpine State High School student will travel through Rotary Youth Exchange, staying with a host family and attending school in the Czech Republic capital.
“[Prague] is one of the most beautiful places in the world,” Eli said.
“If you look it up, you’ll see the most beautiful things ever.”
Eli is already a seasoned traveller, with Japan, Canada, the United States and several Pacific islands among the destinations he’s explored with his family. However, this time, he’ll be heading overseas without them. It’s a challenge he’s ready to embrace.
“Mum and dad have always believed that there’s such a big wide world out there that I should be able to see, and I just love seeing it,” Eli said.
“I love getting out of my comfort zone, trying new things.”
There will be plenty of opportunities to do just that, with his host family planning trips to Switzerland and Austria, while Eli is also organising a Paris visit with friends.
Living with a Czech family means experiencing a new culture firsthand, from a different school routine to navigating a public transport network a little more complicated than his usual lift to school with Mum.
“My host brother takes the public transport to school and all that. He takes, like, four different trains or something,” Eli said.
“Having to rely on public transport to get everywhere by myself would be very, very different.”
Eli will also have his school community cheering him on, with Proserpine State High School’s principal Don McDermid confident he will make the most of the opportunity and encourage others to follow.
“I think Eli is just going to be an amazing representative,” Mr McDermid said.
“I’m sure that he’ll once again open up those pathways for other students as well.”
“I think these opportunities just absolutely add so much to a young person, and am glad that we have the option and that we have the support of organisations that make this happen.”
While abroad, Eli plans to take it all in while also sharing a little Aussie spirit, bringing pins to swap with fellow Rotary exchange students, hoping to trade an Australian flag for a Czech flag with his host Rotary club.
“What I particularly loved was Eli's plan to present our national flag to his host family before returning home, a wonderful gesture,” said Federal Member of Dawson Andrew Willcox.
“After chatting with Eli, I have no doubt he'll be a fantastic ambassador, not only for Australia, but for Proserpine and our entire region.”
CEO of Tourism Whitsundays Tim Booth Photo credit: R Jean Photography
The region’s leading tourism businesses were recognised at the sold-out 2026 Whitsunday Tourism Awards on Saturday 24 October at Elementa Whitsundays. With 87 finalists across 14 categories, the Awards celebrated the exceptional operators that strengthen The Whitsundays’ reputation as a world-class destination.
This year’s awards introduced a refreshed assessment process, as rather than relying on written submissions, recognition was based on business performance and customer feedback.
Businesses were assessed using Best of Queensland Experience Program (BOQEP) scores, customer reviews through the Global Review Index, contributions to Tourism Whitsundays’ STARS industry updates and completion of the Whitsundays Welcomes You training program, which helps local workers build their knowledge of the region and deliver memorable visitor experiences.
Tourism Whitsundays’ Chief Executive Officer, Tim Booth, said the Awards reflect the collective strength of the region’s tourism offering, and the exceptional visitor experiences that continue to set The Whitsundays apart.
“The standard of tourism excellence across The Whitsundays as a whole is something to be incredibly proud of,” said Tim.
“This year, 130 local tourism products achieved Best of Queensland recognition, with 87 finalists across 14 categories recognised at the Awards.
“These businesses reflect the quality and diversity of our region, from world-renowned reef and island experiences to exceptional accommodation, tours and hospitality.
“For the first time, we also introduced the 219 Club Recognition, celebrating businesses that achieved a near-perfect score across every assessment metric.
“This year, we awarded this to Whitsunday Segway Tours, Whitsunday Escape and Portland Roads Sailing The Whitsundays.
“This is an outstanding achievement and a testament to the commitment these operators bring to delivering exceptional visitor experiences.
“Congratulations to all our finalists and winners. Their commitment to exceptional visitor experiences continues to strengthen The Whitsundays’ reputation as one of Queensland’s leading tourism destinations.”
Whitsunday Regional Council’s Mayor, Ry Collins, said the region’s tourism success is built on the people and businesses who deliver exceptional experiences and support local communities.
“The Whitsundays might be famous for our islands, beaches and the Great Barrier Reef, but it's our people who make this place special,” said Ry. “Behind every great visitor experience are local businesses, hardworking teams and passionate people who take enormous pride in what they do.
“Tourism is a huge part of who we are as a region. It supports local jobs, strengthens our communities and gives people from around the world a reason to fall in love with the place we're lucky enough to call home. These awards are a chance to recognisethe people who put in the hard yards, often behind the scenes, to make those experiences happen.
Tourism Whitsundays’ Chair, Katelyn Aslett, congratulated this year’s winners and finalists, recognising their dedication to showcasing the region and strengthening its reputation as a world-class destination.
“As Chair of Tourism Whitsunday, I’d like to extend my congratulations to all of this year’s award winners and nominees,” said Kate.
“It’s a real privilege to celebrate an industry filled with such passionate, talented and dedicated people who work tirelessly to showcase everything that makes the Whitsundays so special.”
Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm has stepped down from her role as Minister for Child Safety and the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence, in an effort to prioritise her health and wellbeing.
The announcement comes a fortnight after Ms Camm returned from six weeks of medical leave following major surgery, with the Whitsunday MP recognising she needed more time to recover.
“This has been a considered and deeply personal decision,” Ms Camm said.
“Having returned from six weeks of medical leave following major surgery I have come to recognise that my recovery still has some way to go and I need to prioritise my health and wellbeing.”
“I sincerely thank the Premier for the opportunity to serve in his Government and for his support of my decision.”
Ms Camm added in a presser outside of Parliament house in Brisbane, that the pressures of ministerial work had contributed to her decision to step down.
“Harassment, threats, bullying and personal vilification are not and for the past year this has been my experience.”
But during her time in the role, Ms Camm oversaw reforms to strengthen child protection, support foster and kinship carers and improve responses to domestic and family violence.
Central to her child safety work was the Government’s response to the Child Safety Commission of Inquiry, which delivered 52 recommendations for improving the system.
“The landmark Child Safety Commission of Inquiry was the turning point for the Child Safety system,” Ms Camm said.
“There is much more work to be done, while early positive signs show we have stabilised numbers in the Residential Care system for the first time.”
Her work in domestic and family violence included introducing laws for electronic monitoring of perpetrators to strengthen accountability, alongside her reporting a doubling of calls answered by DVConnect to help more people access support when they needed it.
“After sitting with victims of domestic and family violence over many years through opposition and then in the ministry, I’m proud to have been part of delivering change that can help save lives,” Ms Camm said.
In a statement following her decision, Premier David Crisafulli praised her work across both portfolios, describing the child safety inquiry’s reform roadmap as her greatest legacy and highlighting improved access to the domestic violence helpline.
“I thank Amanda for her service to Queensland firstly as a Shadow Minister and then as a Minister,” Mr Crisafulli said.
“Amanda took on an enormous task with a Child Safety system in crisis and a state in need of domestic violence reform.
“With her dedication, passion and commitment, she has put Queensland on the road to repair both.
“I speak on behalf of the Government, the LNP and all Queenslanders in wishing her the best in her recovery.”
Ms Camm will continue serving as the Member for Whitsunday, reaffirming her commitment to the local community.
“I remain committed to the people of Whitsunday as their Member of Parliament, and to supporting the Premier and the Government in delivering a fresh start for Queensland,” she said.
Mayor of Mackay Greg Williamson, Editor in Chief Life Publishing Group Rachael Smith, Mayor of Burdekin Pierina Dalle Cort, Mayor of Hinchinbrook Ramon Jayo and Mayor of the Whitsundays Ry Collins
Local Mayors across five regions celebrated the success of Life Publishing Group on Tuesday night following the announcement that the Whitsundays-based, independently owned publishing house had won the Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) Journalism Award.
At the awards night in Cairns, the Mayors congratulated Life Publishing Group on receiving the 2026 LGAQ award for its work connecting regional communities and spreading the power of positive news throughout the regions it serves.
Life Publishing Group journalists have been recognised for their on-the-ground, hyperlocal coverage of regional areas at the LGAQ awards held in Cairns on Tuesday night.
Editor-in-Chief of Life Publishing Group Rachael Smith attended the event to accept the award on behalf of the team.
“It was an absolute honour to see the hard work of our journalists and broader team acknowledged for the incredible work they do across the regions,” she said.
“Bringing the communities we serve positive news that connects and uplifts is something we are all dedicated to achieving each and every week, and I am beyond thrilled that this has been noticed, acknowledged and now awarded.”
Life Publishing Group has been publishing Core Life Magazine and Tripping Magazine for more than a decade, and in 2020, it launched its first newspaper.
What began as Mackay Life and Whitsunday Life in 2020 expanded to Burdekin Life in 2023 and Hinchinbrook Life in late 2024. Cassowary Coast Life launched as a flipbook publication alongside Hinchinbrook Life in June this year.
“Our journalists do exceptional work in our communities,” Rachael said.
“Not only are they the only on-the-ground journalists in the regions they serve, but they are also responsible for working closely with local Mayors, Councillors, community clubs and businesses.
“We were nominated for this award by the Mayor of Hinchinbrook, and all the other Mayors were then contacted to endorse the nomination. I would like to thank all the Mayors for advocating for local journalism and the important role it plays in our regions.
“This award means so much to our team and to our communities.”
Hi Everyone,
Exciting news from the Life Publishing Group team this week – we’ve won this year’s Local Government Association of Queensland Journalism Award!
We’re particularly humbled by this achievement, especially given the competition with The Australian coming in second and the ABC third.
This state award recognises excellence in regional journalism, and our positive, community-focused, hyperlocal coverage across the group took out the top accolade.
I travelled to Cairns on Tuesday to accept the award on behalf of our team, and I would like to acknowledge all our journalists for the exceptional work they do every day across all the regions we serve.
A big round of applause goes to Hannah McNamara, Victoria Velton, Jacob Casha, Zach Houtenville and our Editorial Team Leader Suzanna McLoughlin.
As some of you may know, most of our journalists come to the regions as cadets, embarking on their first jobs in journalism. They are thrown into a new community and often become the only on-the-ground journalists covering local news.
They are then supported by our fantastic team of professionals, and together we produce the papers our communities read every week.
Every page is a team effort, from the advertising booked by our Sales Managers to the pages created by our designers, the production team bringing it all together and our journalists delivering the content.
Thank you to the whole team for everything you do and well done to each journalist for collectively producing a body of work of such a high standard that we received this top gong.
I would also like to mention the origins of this award, which are particularly meaningful.
The LGAQ established it in honour of ABC cameraman John Bean, journalist Paul Lockyer and helicopter pilot Gary Ticehurst, who tragically died in a crash while on assignment in 2011.
They were a well-liked and deeply respected crew who spent much of their time working in regional areas. Their loss sparked an outpouring of grief from regional leaders who understood the enormous contribution they made to ensuring regional Queensland was given a voice and its contribution to public life was recognised.
It is an honour to continue their legacy in our own small way, ensuring regional Queensland communities remain connected and have a strong voice through positive, local free newspapers every week.
The awards night was spectacular, with more than 500 Mayors, Councillors and local government staff in attendance and I was thrilled to meet up with five of the local Mayors from the regions we serve.
When I was called up on stage to accept the award on behalf of the team, it was a moment that made all our dedication to regional journalism feel worthwhile.
To my surprise, when I came off the stage, all our local Mayors came over to congratulate us.
I was greeted by Mayor Greg Williamson from Mackay, Mayor Ry Collins from the Whitsundays, Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort from the Burdekin and Mayor Ramon Jayo from Hinchinbrook.
I have to confess, I had tears in my eyes at that moment!
I later found out that Mayor Ramon Jayo had nominated us for the award and that every Mayor had received a phone call from the judging committee, with each vouching for the incredible work our team does every day in their regions.
Thank you to all the Mayors, including Mayor Teresa Millwood from Cassowary Coast, where we have recently expanded. It was a delight to share your table on the night!
And finally, thank you to our incredible team, our Publisher Bec Douthwaite, the LGAQ for this significant recognition, and our wonderful readers and local businesses who are part of the Life community.
Rach
Geraldine Moore and Helen Maynard-Turner. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville
A meal delivery will soon come with a reminder to keep drinking for Proserpine Meals on Wheels clients, with Whitsunday Lions funding reusable bottles to help them stay hydrated as the weather warms.
The idea followed when a delivery driver found a client unwell at home, where an ambulance was called, and the client was taken to hospital, with dehydration being the final diagnosis.
Geraldine Moore, who works for Meals on Wheels and volunteers with Lions, approached the club to fund water bottles for the service’s roughly 70 customers, helping them serve friendly reminders to their clients while out on rounds.
“It also gives deliverers an opportunity when they’re delivering the meal … they can just say, ‘Have you filled the drink bottle up?’” Geraldine said.
The bottles will be delivered to clients with their meals, and can be kept beside a favourite chair or carried on a walker, making a drink easier to reach.
Geraldine thanked Lions for helping turn the idea into something practical for local clients.
“Lions were more than happy,” she said.
“They also thought it was a good idea, so they were more than happy to fund it.”
The donation continues Lions’ support for the service, which has also included assistance with new freezers.
Cutting the Containers for Change Depot in Proserpine’s 1st Birthday Cake. photo credit: Zach Houtenville
Anything Environmental has proudly opened the doors to its new Containers for Change depot along the Bruce Highway in Proserpine, giving locals more reason to recycle while putting a little extra cash in their pockets.
The investment of more than $2 million has relocated Proserpine’s existing service to a new facility along the Bruce Highway, with improved safety and easier access for locals returning their bottles and cans.
Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell MP and Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP joined the community to celebrate the depot’s first birthday and the opening of its new facility.
“This is really about being better located to support our community,” Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm said.
“It was all about safety, accessibility, and really being able to showcase, I think, what a great investment in Proserpine can deliver for our community.”
“I know lots of our community groups benefit from bringing in their containers and they utilise that money to support their own organisations and charities.”
Alongside encouraging recycling, Containers for Change has helped Aussies pocket nearly $1.2 billion through its 10-cent refunds since launching back in 2018.
Proserpine locals seem to be already reaping the rewards, having already deposited more than 12 million bottles and cans, putting over $1.2 million back into the community.
“It’s been a lot of hard work, but when you look around and see this beautiful building, we’re tremendously proud of all the work our team has done to get it to where it is now,” said Jo Higgins, Director of Proserpine’s Containers for Change depot.
“Every ten cents counts and I know a lot of the community depend on us having this service here for them.”
Big ears, an even bigger smile and a whole lot of love to give – Troy is hoping his next adventure will be finding a family to call his own.
The one-year-old Husky x Kelpie is a playful, affectionate boy currently being fostered in through Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue.
Troy loves his people and is great with children, making him a wonderful companion for a family looking to welcome a four-legged friend into their home. He also gets along well with other dogs and would love a doggy sibling to share his adventures with before settling down for a cuddle and a well-earned nap.
Treats are high on Troy’s list of favourite things, and he’s happy to show off his sitting skills to earn them. He also loves his rope toy and is eager to please, making him a quick learner as he continues to work on his lead manners.
Troy has also met cats and done well, although he’ll need some training and supervision around them.
Could Troy be the missing piece in your family? To express your interest, send Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue a direct message via its Facebook page, including your name, phone number and “Troy”.
Photo supplied: Whitsunday Regional Council
Whitsunday Libraries have earned two honours at the 2026 Queensland Public Libraries Association Conference, recognizing youth engagement as well as the contribution of local library professional Alicia Pond.
Whitsunday Regional Council won the Local Government Authority Award for populations over 35,000 for its Our Library, Our Space project, which gives young people a say in shaping library spaces and services.
Library team member Alicia Pond (Mulcahy) also had reason to celebrate, receiving the Cheryl Haughton Scholarship to explore how libraries can better show the difference they make in regional and rural communities.
Mayor Ry Collins said the recognition reflected the dedication of the libraries team and its role across the region.
“Modern libraries are so much more than shelves of books,” he said.
“They're places where people connect, kids discover new interests, young people find their voice and our communities come together.”
He praised the youth project for listening to young people and involving them in decisions about their libraries.
The honours celebrate work supporting welcoming library spaces and services for communities in Bowen, Collinsville, Proserpine and Cannonvale.
Year 7 Students in front of Parliament. Photos supplied: Whitsunday Christian College
Whitsunday Christian College’s Year 7 students took a bit of an extended field trip to Canberra, where they got a closer look at Australian democracy and plenty of stories beyond the classroom.
Day two began with views from Mount Ainslie before students tried their hand at voting during an electoral education session. A bike ride around Lake Burley Griffin encouraged some to push past their nerves, followed by visits to Geoscience Australia and Questacon.
On day three, students watched coins being made at the Royal Australian Mint and designed their own glass tiles at Canberra Glassworks.
After observing a real court case at the High Court they visited Parliament House and Federal Member of Dawson Andrew Willcox, before the kids took part in a parliamentary role-play to help prepare them to watch democracy in action, including a Senate division and voting in the House of Representatives.
On day four and final day before heading back to the Whitsundays, students toured the Australian Institute of Sport with an athlete before pausing to reflect at the Australian War Memorial.
The evening then took them outdoors for orienteering and a roll down the hill at the National Arboretum, followed by a visit to the zoo for a playful finish to their time down south.
Understanding patterns and making lasting changes
Have you ever found yourself thinking, “Here we go again”? Maybe you worry about the same things, react strongly during disagreements, struggle to say no, or keep doubting your decisions. Even when you want things to change, you may return to familiar ways of thinking and behaving.
These experiences are common. Often, the difficulty is not a lack of motivation, but patterns that develop over time and shape how we interpret situations, manage emotions and relate to others.
How do these patterns develop?
Family relationships, school experiences, friendships and significant life events shape our expectations of ourselves and others. Someone who grew up believing mistakes were unacceptable may become highly self-critical. A person who has experienced rejection may struggle to trust others or avoid situations where they feel vulnerable. These responses may once have helped them cope but can become unhelpful over time.
Avoiding uncomfortable situations may bring immediate relief but prevent us from building confidence. Always putting others first may protect relationships in the short term while leaving us exhausted or resentful.
Why can change be difficult?
Recognising a pattern does not automatically make it easier to change. Familiar responses can happen almost automatically, particularly when we are stressed, tired or emotionally overwhelmed. Simply telling ourselves to stop worrying, be confident or think positively is not always enough.
Change can begin by noticing what triggers a response, what we tell ourselves and what happens afterwards. Understanding the connection between thoughts, feelings and behaviours helps us identify opportunities to respond differently.
Creating new possibilities
Small, practical changes can help us develop new habits. We might practise setting boundaries, expressing concerns more directly or viewing mistakes as opportunities to learn rather than evidence of failure.
Change takes practice, and setbacks are normal. Progress is not about getting everything right; it is about developing greater awareness and flexibility.
Psychological therapy can help people understand recurring difficulties, explore contributing experiences and beliefs, and develop more helpful ways of managing everyday challenges.
We cannot change everything that has happened to us or control every situation. However, we can recognise patterns that no longer serve us and develop different ways forward.
Sometimes, the first step toward change isn't trying harder. It is understanding ourselves a little better.
Personal Transitions supports individuals, children and families to understand difficulties, build psychological wellbeing and work towards meaningful change.
Visit Personaltransitions.com.au or contact Cristie on 0488 667 264 or Sharon on 0418 708 214.
Julie Telford, President of the Tourism Whitsundays Board, Raylene Willcox, winner of the Bob Porter Award Kev Collins, Katelyn Collins, Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox, Mayor Ry Collinsand Mel Collins. Photo credit: R Jean Photography
Contributed with thanks by Tourism Whitsundays
With this weekend’s Whitsundays Tourism Awards sold out, we look forward to celebrating the people and businesses shaping our region’s tourism industry. This year’s finalists reflect the exceptional experiences and excellence that set The Whitsundays apart.
Congratulations to all finalists. We look forward to celebrating your achievements and the strength of our tourism community.
3–3.5 Star Accommodation: A & A Motel Proserpine; Bounce Airlie Beach; Colonial Palms Motor Inn; Dingo Beach Hotel; Magnums Accommodation Airlie Beach; Nomads Airlie Beach; Palm Bungalows, Hamilton Island; Reef Gateway Hotel; Shingley Beach Resort.
4–4.5 Star Accommodation: Airlie Beach Hotel; at Water's Edge Resort; Club Wyndham Airlie Beach; Freedom Shores Resort; Mantra Club Croc; Mirage Whitsundays; Reef View Hotel.
5 Star Luxury Accommodation: Beach Club, Hamilton Island; qualia, Hamilton Island; The Sundays, Hamilton Island.
Attractions: Coral Sea Marina; Cruise Whitsundays; Hamilton Island Golf Club; Hamilton Island Yacht Club; Shute Harbour Marine Terminal; The Big Mango.
Bareboating: Charter Yachts Australia; Cumberland Charter Yachts; Portland Roads Sailing the Whitsundays; Queensland Yacht Charters; Whitsunday Escape; Whitsunday Rent A Yacht.
Caravan and Holiday Parks: BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort; BIG4 Whitsunday Islands Holiday Park; Discovery Parks Airlie Beach; Horseshoe Bay Resort; NRMA Bowen Beachfront Holiday Park; Tasman Holiday Parks Airlie Beach; Whitsunday Holiday Park – Proserpine; Whitsunday Holiday Parks – Lake Proserpine; Whitsunday Holiday Parks – Queens Beach Bowen.
Day Tours – On Land: Airlie Adventure Tours; Bike and Hike Whitsunday; Driftwood Tours; Falls to Paradise; Just Tuk'n Around; Skydive Australia – Airlie Beach; SKYONE Airlie Beach; Whitsunday Crocodile Safari; Whitsunday Segway Tours.
Day Tours – On Water: Cruise Whitsundays; Explore Group Australia; Iconic Whitsunday Adventures; Ocean Rafting; Red Cat Adventures; Salty Dog Sea Kayaking; Whitsunday Jetski Tours; Wings Sailing Charters Whitsundays.
Overnight Crewed Sailing: OzSail Whitsundays; True Blue Sailing; Whitsunday Expeditions.
Restaurants and Catering: Birds Fish Bar; Bommie Restaurant; Eastwoods Dining; Fat Frog Beach Cafe; Jubilee Tavern; Northerlies Beach Bar & Grill; Paradiso Airlie Beach; Reef Gateway Hotel; Sorrento Restaurant and Bar; The Garden Bar Bistro; Whitsunday Sailing Club.
Retail and Services: Above and Below Gallery; Whitsunday Holidays.
Self-Contained Accommodation: Elementa Whitsundays; Peninsula Airlie Beach; Toscana Village Resort; Waterview Airlie Beach; Whitsunday Apartments Hamilton Island; Yacht Club Villas.
Transport: Airlie Beach Transfers & Tours; Cruise Whitsundays; Heart of Reef Shuttles Whitsunday's; Scamper Island Camping.
Unique Accommodation: Cruise Whitsundays; Elysian Retreat; Palm Bay Resort; Silver Shoals Island Lodge; Whitsunday Sands Resort.
With National Water Week underway this week, it's a good time to think about something most of us probably take for granted.
The water coming out of our taps and what happens when we flush the toilet. We simply expect those services to work.
And fair enough.
But behind those everyday essentials is one of Council's biggest responsibilities, and National Water Week is a timely reminder of just how important reliable water and sewerage services are to our communities.
It's also a good opportunity to remind residents that we're currently seeking feedback on Whitsunday Water's Customer Service Standards for the next five years, through to 2031.
Now, I appreciate that a document about water and sewerage service standards might not sound like the most exciting reading.
But it matters.
Whether you live in Bowen, Collinsville, Proserpine, Cannonvale or Airlie Beach, these essential services are fundamental to everyday life.
They're also critical to supporting new housing, attracting investment and keeping our region growing.
As one of Queensland's fastest-growing regional council areas, we're seeing increasing demand on infrastructure that many residents rarely see or think about.
And that's why Council continues to invest heavily in these essential services.
Our 2026/27 Budget includes $39.8 million for water and sewerage infrastructure and services, alongside major projects designed to support future housing and population growth.
But investment is only part of the picture.
Good service also means clear communication, reliable supply and making sure customers understand what to expect when issues arise.
That's where our Customer Service Standards come in.
They outline Council's service commitments and provide a clear framework for how we support our customers.
And it's important that our community has an opportunity to provide feedback as we review them.
Whether you're a homeowner, a renter or running a local business, water is something we all rely on.
The consultation is open until 3rd November, and I encourage residents to take a few minutes to have their say through Council's Your Say Whitsundays platform.
National Water Week reminds us that water is one of our most valuable resources.
And making sure we manage it responsibly, invest for the future and keep our community informed will always be a priority for Council.
Contributed with thanks by the office of Member for Burdekin Dale Last
Queensland families deserve confidence that concerns about their children’s safety will be heard and acted on, Member for Burdekin Dale Last says, as he welcomes legislation establishing the Queensland Protection Commission.
“Protecting Queensland’s children and vulnerable people is one of government’s key responsibilities,” he said.
The legislation follows a review centred on the case of Ashley Paul Griffith, who committed more than 300 offences against children over a 20-year period.
According to Mr Last, the review identified five opportunities when Griffith could have been stopped, with gaps in information sharing and fragmented responsibilities causing confusion and delaying action.
“The reality is missing those opportunities resulted in real harm that will impact those children and their families for the rest of their lives,” he said.
The government has brought forward implementation of Queensland’s Reportable Conduct Scheme, which Mr Last described as a way to ensure concerning behaviour is reported, even when it appears minor or isolated.
“People who fail to disclose reportable conduct allegations or knowingly providing false information will be held accountable, and so they should because the community expects everyone to play their part.”
The government is also progressing an Intelligence Hub intended to bring together information from different agencies to help prevent offending.
For Mr Last, the goal is to ensure warning signs lead to action before a child is harmed.
“By being proactive the aim is to prevent abuse before it happens and give Queensland families the confidence that their children can safely achieve their full potential,” he said.
He said further changes remained an option if existing measures proved insufficient.
“We have significantly strengthened current protections and have a plan in place for improvements but, if more needs to be done, then we will do it to protect children and vulnerable Queenslanders from those who seek to prey on them.”
Have you checked what your super and investments actually own lately?
Share markets have enjoyed an incredible run, particularly in America, where excitement around Artificial Intelligence has driven some of the world's biggest technology companies higher.
That's great while the tide is rising. The danger is assuming that because your portfolio has performed strongly, it must be appropriately diversified and structured for you.
Index-style funds can provide broad exposure to hundreds of companies, but when a handful of very large technology companies dominate an index, investors can have significantly more exposure to the AI boom than they realise.Nobody knows whether AI is in a bubble or whether today's valuations will ultimately prove justified but one interesting stat is that to justify the trillions of dollars being spent on data centres, the western world will need to end up spending more on purchasing AI services than they currently do on food! That's the point. You don't need to predict the next market crash, but you should understand what would happen to your financial position if one occurred.
There's an old saying that a rising tide lifts all boats. Legendary investor Warren Buffett provides the important warning: “Only when the tide goes out do you discover who's been swimming naked.”
Nobody knows whether today's AI boom will continue or eventually correct. The important question is: what happens to you if markets fall heavily?
That's particularly important when approaching retirement. While working, you're generally a regular BUYER of investments through super contributions. In retirement you become a regular SELLER, because your investments fund pension payments. Being forced to sell growth investments after a major fall can seriously damage retirement capital. Our previous retirement planning articles have highlighted this fundamental change and the importance of strategies designed to avoid selling investments at the wrong time.
Large industry super funds manage investments collectively for many members. Personal financial advice is different. It considers your retirement timeframe, income requirements, other assets, appetite for risk and whether your portfolio needs specific protection against market downturns. Investment choice can also allow portfolios to be customised around individual circumstances.
Index funds and industry funds aren't necessarily bad. The danger is assuming strong recent returns mean your investments are right for you.
When the tide eventually goes out, that's when you'll find out.
For a free consultation with local people who understand these and other financial matters, contact Eclipse Financial Planning in Cannonvale on 4946 7359 or visit www.eclipsefp.com.au.
Cloe Gerhart and her daughter. Photos supplied: Cloe Gerhart
After finding comfort in running during a difficult chapter of her life, Chloe Gerhart is preparing to cover 1,200 kilometres in 20 days next June, raising funds for Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network and encouraging conversations that could help others reach out for support.
The mum plans to run around 60 kilometres a day in her journey from Bowen to Cairns and back to Airlie Beach, with her daughter joining the support crew along the way. Her challenge, Chloe’s Miles for Minds, is as much about raising awareness as it is reaching the finish line.
“I just wanted to do something that was sort of pretty big and extraordinary that would get people talking,” Chloe said.
“I think it all sort of starts with conversations.”
Chloe only took up running in 2023, after having her daughter and going through a difficult time involving someone close to her. What had once been a sport she didn’t particularly enjoy became something she looked forward to.
“When I started running back in 2023, it really helped me mentally with a lot of things,” she said.
After losing someone close to her, Chloe wanted to use running to support others, starting with no set distance in mind but a determination to make people stop and ask why.
“I thought maybe that’s something that I could do, I’d go for a run,” she said.
“Hopefully people sort of look at me and go, ‘What is she doing? Why is she running so far?’ and get conversations happening.”
With now 7 months to prepare, Chloe is working out where she will stop along the route and organising the support needed to keep going for 20 days.
A physiotherapist will accompany her each day, while community members have already offered to join sections of the run. Her daughter will also be along for the journey, giving Chloe another reason to push through difficult days.
“I think just having her there and her being able to watch me do something so incredible will keep me going,” she said.
The fundraiser will support the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network, helping its work with local families and community events that encourage people to seek support.
“All the money raised will go to them,” Chloe said.
A community celebration is planned for the finish on 26th June, with the network hosting a tent where people can stop for a chat and find support.
Until then, Chloe is inviting others to join her for any stretch of the journey, whether it’s 100 metres or a kilometre. Updates will be shared through her Facebook page, Chloe’s Miles for Minds – Break the Silence.
“I really encourage people to get involved just any way they can,” she said.
Liv Compton. Photo supplied: Explore Property.
Accom Whitsunday’s Liv Compton has put her running shoes to the ultimate test, representing Norway at the 2026 Backyard Ultra World Team Championship in Hommelvik between October 17th and October 20th.
She joined runners across the globe as national teams of 15 competed simultaneously, each testing their legs, resolve and endurance at their own course on home soil.
“It was quite special to represent Norway alongside 14 of the country’s best backyard runners,” Liv said.
“It was special having my mum and sister crew me, and also my uncle and cousin, who I hadn’t seen in over seven years.
“Day and night, there was support out on the course, cheering and waving the flag.”
Runners were tasked to complete a 6.706-kilometre loop, known as a “yard”, on the hour, every hour. Each new lap began when the clock struck the next hour, leaving runners with whatever time remained to recover, refuel and prepare for the next round.
Unlike most running courses, this competition had no finish line, with the challenge continuing until only one runner remained for each country.
Liv wrapped up the race with a whopping 34 laps, running over 228-kilometres combined.
Every lap was added towards the team’s tally, with the combined efforts of each country’s 15 runners deciding who takes home the World Team Champion title. It took more than strong legs to keep that tally growing, with runners carefully balancing pace, fuel and precious moments of rest between laps.
“I gave everything I had on course,” Liv said.
“I expected tough weather conditions, but didn’t expect it to get to minus degrees the second night.”
“My PB is 40 hours, so of course there is some disappointment not being able to get a PB this time, but I just have to keep trying.”
Between raising two children and helping visitors find their perfect getaway at Accom Whitsunday, the competition is demonstration of an extraordinary drive and passion.
“Good luck, Liv! The Accom Team, Explore Property and the Whitsundays will be cheering you on every yard of the way,” her teammates shared prior to the event.
“Running to me is something I prioritise, I run and look after myself to be the best mum I can be,” said Liv.
“To fit it all in I run before the kids wake up and sometimes on my lunch break at work.
“Other people inspire me as well. If they can do hard stuff there is no reason why I can't do it.”
The Whitsunday Conservation Council have gathered outside the Whitsunday electorate office in Proserpine once again, in an effort to protest a proposed mining legislation the group warns would restrict communities’ rights to challenge projects in court.
At the Tuesday 20th October protest, the group called on Parliament to reject the Mineral Resources and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2026, arguing it would leave affected residents with fewer avenues to raise objections.
The Mineral Resources and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2026 seeks to streamline mining lease and related environmental approvals by reducing delays, duplication and costs. However, the Whitsunday Conservation Council argues its proposed limits on who can object and which objections reach the Land Court would weaken communities’ ability to challenge projects that could affect them.
“This is yet another disgraceful power grab by the government, which will make it easier for billion-dollar companies to fast-track risky projects that could have far-reaching environmental consequences,” said Whitsundays Conservation Council President Tony Fontes.
“This bill dramatically restricts which members of the community can object to mining projects, including by limiting objection rights to people who own or occupy land within a 125km radius of the mine site, as well as Native Title holders covered by Federal law.
“These measures severely limit the ability of Queenslanders to protect their local communities and ecosystems from potentially devastating mining projects.”
At the centre of the council’s concerns is the proposed 125-kilometre boundary on who can object, claiming it fails to account for mining impacts that can reach further afield, particularly through downstream waterways and greenhouse gas emissions.
“So basically, it strips us of our right to object to a mine that can and will impact us,” Tony said.
“Take the Great Barrier Reef because a mine in New South Wales creating carbon pollution impacts the Great Barrier Reef, which is in my backyard.
“And yet I can't say anything about that.”
Lodging an objection would also no longer automatically trigger a Land Court hearing. The relevant decision-maker could determine the application without referring it to the court, a change WCC President Tony Fontes argues would weaken independent scrutiny.
In a letter delivered to Amanda Camm’s office during the protest, WCC urged rejection of the bill, retention of broad objection rights and independent Land Court hearings, and removal of the proposed 125-kilometre restriction.
“We appreciate that Amanda can have a look at that and we would encourage her to reject the bill,” said Tony as he handed the letter to Amanda’s office.
Responding to the concerns, Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm said she would await the parliamentary committee’s recommendations before coming to any decisions.
“The Committee is currently reviewing this legislation and stakeholders have had an opportunity to provide submissions,” she said.
“We will wait for the committee’s recommendations, and I will take into consideration the concerns raised by the Whitsunday Conservation Group and stakeholders who have provided feedback.”
Two teenage boys allegedly took a stolen boat for a joyride through the Whitsundays, prompting an overnight search before the vessel was found damaged at Shute Harbour.
The boys, aged 14 and 13, were later located safe on the mainland after poor weather hampered efforts by police and rescue crews to find them.
The boat had been reported stolen from Airlie Beach between 7pm and 11pm on 15 October. A search of the Coral Sea began the following evening amid concerns for the teenagers, who were reportedly in a boat between Long Island and South Molle Island.
Police, assisted by CQ Rescue, searched for the pair until poor weather forced the operation to be suspended. The search resumed around 6am on 17th October.
The vessel was found damaged at Shute Harbour that day, and both boys were located safe and well on the mainland.
The 14-year-old Cannonvale boy has been charged with two counts of unauthorised use of a motor vehicle and one count each of entering premises and committing an indictable offence, stealing and receiving tainted property.
The 13-year-old Jubilee Pocket boy faces two counts of unauthorised use of a motor vehicle and one count of entering premises and committing an indictable offence. He has also been charged with possessingdangerous drugs and possessing utensils that had been used.
Both boys are due to appear before Proserpine Childrens Court on 26th October.
Officer in Charge of Whitsunday Station, Senior Sergeant Anthony Moynihan, said the reckless incidents drew heavily on emergency services.
“Police search and rescue personnel, Water Police, and volunteer Marine Rescue crews were all required to dedicate considerable time and resources to locating vessels and ensuring the safety of those involved,” he said.
“The unauthorised use of vessels places those involved at serious risk of injury or death on the water.”
The incident comes as police investigate other marine property offences and hold several items suspected of being stolen. Authorities are urging boat owners to secure vessels and remove keys. Anyone missing property or with information about suspicious activity should contact Whitsunday Police Station or Policelink on 131 444.
Boats dousing the burning boat with water
Airlie Beach’s boating community came together on Sunday when a vessel caught fire in Pioneer Bay, with nearby boaties helping bring the flames under control before fire crews arrived.
For Sarina residents Tali Pool and a friend, Sunday morning had been a chance to unwind at Coral Sea Resort during a mums’ weekend away, until a small puff of white smoke caught their attention offshore.
“We were at the coral sea resort having a lounge on the sandbar and we see a puff of white smoke come out randomly and we said "oh that looked like smoke just came out!" Tali said.
“Then we went back to relaxing then all of a sudden it burst into flames!”
“Everyone on shore stopped what they were doing and ran over to watch. Everyone was shocked and worried wondering if someone was on board.”
The 35-foot monohull was about 200 metres from Coral Sea Resort when the fire broke out.
The Queensland Fire Department report receiving the call at about 11.40am on Sunday 18th October, with initial reports placing the flames above deck on the vessel in Pioneer Bay.
Two firefighters travelled out to the vessel in a dinghy, fully extinguishing the fire by 12.10pm. No injuries were reported.
Before the firies had made it out, there was an exceptional response time from the nearby boaties, with several boats rushing over to assist.
“Within two minutes there were small boats gathered around and splashing water over the boat to try and put it out,” Tali said.
“I reckon they were so quick to respond, it was like it was a good tight community that was ready.
“We were just happy and impressed with how quickly strangers kicked into gear to get it sorted and help out.”
Tali and her mate left the bay for a while following the incident, only to return later to see visible damage above deck.
“[It was] very burnt on top, no more sail left,” she said of the scene that greeted her afterwards.
Police believe the cause was electrical and are not treating the incident as suspicious, with no one reported injured in the fire.
Photo credit: Rachael Smith
Contributed with thanks to Lumus Imaging.
Lumus Imaging Whitsundays recently hosted a Meet and Greet evening at its Cannonvale clinic, bringing together local healthcare professionals and community representatives.
The event provided a valuable opportunity to connect, strengthen relationships across the local healthcare community and showcase the imaging services available in the Whitsundays region.
The evening also highlighted Lumus Imaging’s ongoing commitment to supporting the local community and delivering high-quality, patient-focused care.
Lumus Imaging Whitsundays extends sincere thank you to all who attended.
A special thank you to our sponsors InMed Healthcare - GE Healthcare
From rising stars to familiar local faces, the 2026 Whitsunday Business Awards celebrated our region’s finest
More than 200 guests filled the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on Friday evening for a sold-out celebration of local business, recognising leadership, customer service, fresh ideas and community contribution.
With 46 nominees across seven categories, the night shared many applauses for the leadership, customer service, innovation and community contribution that keep the Whitsundays moving.
Among those recognised was the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, adding Hall of Fame honours to its long history in the community.
A Night Of Business Magic, Served With A Side Of Community Spirit
The Whitsunday region came together in style on Friday evening to celebrate the talent, innovation, leadership, and community contribution of local businesses at the 2026 Whitsunday Business Awards, held at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre.
More than 200 guests attended the sold-out event, delivered in partnership by Whitsunday Regional Council, the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Bowen Chamber of Commerce.
The Awards recognised excellence across seven categories. Following an initial assessment, 46 businesses and individuals progressed to the nominee stage and final judging, with winners selected by an independent panel of regional industry experts.
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the Awards provided an opportunity to recognise the people and organisations making a difference across the region.
“Tonight is about celebrating the people behind our local businesses who have backed themselves, created opportunities and helped make the Whitsundays such a great place to live, work and do business,” he said on the evening.
“What I love about these Awards is the mix of businesses and people being recognised, from those who have served our communities for decades to the next generation having a crack and building something special right here in our region.
“Congratulations to every winner, highly commended recipient and nominee. You should all be proud of what you contribute, not just to our economy, but to the strength and character of our communities across the Whitsundays.
Allan Milostic, President of the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said it was great to see local businesses come together.
“As business owners and operators, we know what it takes to keep moving forward — the long days, challenges, decisions and opportunities, and the people who make it all possible,” he shared.
“Our region is home to an incredible diversity of industries and businesses, from tourism and hospitality, trades and construction to agriculture, professional services, retail, health and technology.”
“We may take different paths, but we share a common role in making the Whitsundays a great place to live, work and do business.”
Jo Shepherd, Bowen Chamber of Commerce committee member, said the awards give us the opportunity to recognise commitment and celebrate the achievements of businesses across all industries.
“Our region’s strength lies not only in our major industries and investments, but in the determination of the people behind our local businesses. Every business that takes a chance, creates a job, or invests in its future contributes to our region’s prosperity.
“But recognition is only part of the story. We must continue to back our local businesses, invest in our people, share opportunities and work together across our towns and industries. Our region has enormous potential, and it is up to all of us to turn that potential into lasting opportunities for the next generation.”
Best of the Whitsundays: Business of the Year
Small Business Winner: NQ Aerovation
Highly Commended: Belle Property Whitsundays
Medium to Large Business Winner: Bowen Rail Company
Highly Commended: Magnums Unique Accommodation
Business Leader of the Year
Winner: Emma Whybird – Edge Dance Studio Whitsunday
Highly Commended: Hayley Moran – Airlie Health Hub
Rising Star: Employee, Apprentice or Trainee
Winner: Giulian Grasso – Whitsunday Law
Highly Commended: Soumya Santosh - Tassal
Customer Service Excellence
Small Business Winner: Bright Patch Café
Highly Commended: Coastal Brush
Highly Commended: Hog’s Breath Cafe Airlie Beach
Medium to Large Business Winner: Mark Milligan – Pilcher’s Mitre 10
Community Champion
Winner: Whitsunday Counselling & Support
Highly Commended: Bowen Community Op Shop
Think Big
Winner: GRB Mining
Business Legends of the Whitsundays: Hall of Fame
Winner: Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre
Whitsunday Law solicitor Giulian Grasso has been named Rising Star at the 2026 Whitsunday Business Awards in recognition of his professional ascension and dedication to the region just two years after his admission as a lawyer.
For Giulian, the recognition reflects the hours he has dedicated to his work and the connections he has built within the local community, including through his involvement with the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce.
“I was certainly amazed by the calibre of all nominees to the award and certainly was surprised to have received the winning award,” he said.
“Personally, it showcases how, in the small close-knit community of the Whitsundays, one can strive to make a name for themselves and be successful.”
“The award goes beyond simple recognition in the legal field; it’s a furthered appreciation of plentiful hours of dedication to the Whitsunday region.”
Giulian joined the firm in 2022, balancing work with his Bachelor of Laws and Practical Legal Training before his admission as a lawyer on 8th October 2024. During that time, he worked his way through administration and personal assistant roles before becoming a solicitor.
His responsibilities grew further in 2025 when consultant John Ryan retired, forcing him to step up, absorbing that workload. With support from the firm’s director and colleagues, he worked through the challenge, expanding his experience across different areas of law and building on the knowledge he now brings to clients.
“The ‘sink or swim’ environment of Law meant that I had to succeed in the difficult task – leaning on our Director and colleagues for assistance,” Giulian said.
“However, since taking on that workload, I have gained an appreciation for many different aspects and areas of Law and have taken this onboard in assisting clients.”
Giulian isn’t the first bringing wins home to Whitsunday Law, with his colleague Kellee Fogg winning the Business Leader of the Year in 2025.
“For the business, it is truly fantastic to see that Whitsunday Law has produced not one award winner, but two,” Giulian said.
He also congratulated his fellow nominees, who he had joined on the Rising Star panel at the Whitsunday Business Conference.
“To all the nominees, congratulations – you are all held at a high degree for rising stars in the Whitsunday businesses and your nominations are reflective of those achievements,” Giulian said.
“I was certainly nervous when the nominations were released and we had an opportunity to chat and discuss at the Whitsunday Business Conference!”
“You all should be commended for your achievements both inside and out of the workplace.”
With another awards night behind him, Giulian is already looking ahead.
“Bring on the Whitsunday Business Awards for 2027!”
Bowen-based NQ Aerovation is celebrating a major milestone after being named Best of the Whitsundays – Small Business of the Year at the Whitsunday Business Awards.
Established in 2016, NQ Aerovation grew from a passion for innovation, agriculture and emerging drone technology and has become one of North Queensland’s specialist drone businesses.
It services clients across agriculture, mining, environmental management and commercial industries.
Led by Luke and Gillian Jurgens, the locally owned family business specialises in agricultural drone sales, operations, CASA-accredited pilot training, repairs and warranty services, helping businesses embrace drone technology to improve efficiency, safety and productivity.
With strong roots in farming, NQ Aerovation understands the challenges facing regional industries and is passionate about delivering practical, innovative solutions that make a real difference on the ground.
“Winning this award is a huge honour for our team. To be recognised among so many incredible Whitsunday businesses means a lot,” Luke said.
The award reflects years of hard work, innovation and a commitment to supporting customers well beyond the initial sale.
“We don’t just sell drones. We back our customers with real operational experience, training and ongoing support to help them succeed in business and in the field.”
From introducing new technology to local businesses, to delivering specialised drone operations across Queensland, NQ Aerovation continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible with drone technology.
“We’re incredibly grateful to our clients, industry partners and the local community for backing us. This award is a reminder of how far we’ve come, and we’re excited about what’s ahead for NQ Aerovation and the industries we support.”
After more than three decades of giving their all for the community, the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre has stepped into the limelight as an inductee into the Business Legends of the Whitsundays Hall of Fame.
The recognition surprised the team, who said it was an honour that reflected the community’s appreciation for their work.
“We knew we were up against some very strong contenders, so it was an absolute surprise,” said Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre Executive Officer Rebecca Woods.
Established in 1989, the centre has grown into a familiar source of support for local families, providing everything from child care and playgroups to food assistance and emergency relief.
Its services include Scallywags Child Care, Family Support, Community Development, Early Childhood Support, Cannonvale Foodbank, the Furniture Shed and Op Shop.
The centre also hosts outreach services, special interest classes and playgroups, giving residents opportunities to connect and access support.
“We are passionate about what we do and don’t seek praise or validation,” said Rebecca Woods.
“Nonetheless, it is amazing to see our community backing us and appreciating what we do.”
Behind that work is a dedicated team of staff and volunteers, whose contribution, the centre has credited for its success.
“I want to thank my team and volunteers,” said Rebecca.
“It is not possible to achieve this success without their dedication and hard work.”
With more than $400,000 invested in community initiatives and plans for a major mining workshop and training precinct, GRB Mining is positioning itself as a business focused on people, partnerships and regional opportunity.
When GRB Mining was founded, the vision extended well beyond building a successful mining business. It was about creating meaningful employment, supporting local communities and establishing lasting relationships with clients who share the same values.
Founder Martin Bettin believes business success should never be measured by profit alone.
"The mining industry can be heavily focused on short-term profits. At GRB Mining, we're not interested in doing business with a client for three months. We want to be doing business with them for three years and beyond."
That philosophy is built around three fundamental principles: family, work-life balance and giving back to the community.
For Marty, those values began long before GRB Mining existed.
"Growing up, I watched my father continually give back to his community. Whether through sporting sponsorships or helping families in need, he taught me that success creates a responsibility to support others."
Today, that generational philosophy remains central to GRB Mining's identity.
The company has contributed more than $400,000 towards community sponsorships and initiatives throughout the Whitsundays, supporting sporting clubs, families and local organisations. Contributions range from sporting scoreboards to more than 6,000 GRB Mining hydration packs distributed at community clubs and carnivals.
Now, GRB Mining is preparing for its most ambitious investment yet.
Located approximately 20 minutes outside Bowen, the company's 90-acre industrial development, featuring 2.1 kilometres of road frontage, represents a proposed investment of phase 1-3 $10 million and phase 3-7 totalling $22 million.
The development will feature two major components: a mining equipment workshop and a fully integrated tyre training facility.
The workshop will provide regional mines with a closer alternative for machinery maintenance and rebuilds, reducing the need to transport equipment to Mackay, lowering costs and helping minimise heavy equipment movements along the Bruce Highway.
Importantly, it will create local employment opportunities for mechanics, electricians and specialist tradespeople, allowing more workers to return home to their families each night.
GRB Mining anticipates introducing five to seven workshop apprenticeships annually.
Its proposed tyre training facility aims to become Queensland's first fully integrated training centre, offering pathways from light vehicle tyre qualifications through to ultra-class mining equipment, with an anticipated 25 to 30 apprenticeship opportunities.
The development is expected to generate between $20million and $25 million in regional economic activity, creating 35 local jobs subject to project delivery and operational demands.
For Marty, the ambition remains unchanged.
"We're not building this business just for today. We're building something that creates opportunities for the next generation. If we can give a young person a career, help a family through difficult times or support a child chasing a sporting dream, that's what real success looks like."
For GRB Mining, the future isn't simply about growing a business. It's about growing the community alongside it.
In a switch from her usual role of helping little ones step onto the stage, the owner of EDGE Dance Studio Whitsunday stepped into the spotlight this week after being named Business Leader of the Year at the Whitsunday Business Awards.
“It was a complete shock!” said Studio Owner Emma Whybird.
“There were so many great business leaders nominated in our category, so when they read out my name I was genuinely surprised.”
Since opening in 2022, EDGE has grown from 115 students to almost 300 across Proserpine and Bowen, employing nine local staff.
“When I opened EDGE, I wanted it to be a welcoming place where every child felt valued and confident, and where our team had room to grow too,” Emma said.
The growth hasn’t been without its challenges, but Emma credits her team and the foundations they have built together for helping the studio move forward.
“My name might be on the award, but it belongs to the team and families who make EDGE what it is,” Emma said.
“Learning to delegate and trust my team, instead of trying to do everything myself, has probably been my biggest lesson.”
While end-of-year concerts remain a highlight, everyday classroom achievements carry meaning, from a young dancer skipping independently to a shy child finding the confidence to join in.
“For me, success has never been only about growing a business,” Emma said.
“It’s about growing people, creating opportunities and making a positive difference in the lives of others.”
A family business going “toe to toe with the big boys” is how Mark Milligan sees Pilchers Mitre 10’s success at the 2026 Whitsunday Business Awards.
The store took home the Medium to Large Business Customer Service Award, catching Mark by surprise and giving the whole team something to celebrate.
“It was a total surprise, and one I wasn’t expecting the win,” he said.
Mark has worked with the Pilcher family for four years, valuing the opportunity to be part of an established local business and learn from his team mates along the way.
While he remains unsure who nominated him, he said he was grateful and humbled by the recognition.
“I am part of a good team, which is why we share the win,” Mark said.
That appreciation also extends to the customers who continue to support the business. Mark said the award offered an opportunity to recognise the contribution local businesses make to their communities, while acknowledging the people who help keep them going.
“The success of our business is also a reflection of our loyal customers,” he said.
“It’s a mutual gratitude.”
Mark congratulated the other nominees, saying being nominated was a reward in itself, while also thanking the awards for spotlighting a local business like Pilchers.
“The awards offer an opportunity for people to appreciate the effects a well run local business has on a community,” Mark said.
Mark Milligan was thrilled to take home an award on Friday night. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville
The Whitsundays has a new Community Champion and its recipients are quick to shine a spotlight on the people they serve. Chosen from a field of eleven worthy nominees, Whitsunday Counselling and Support (WCS) took home the honour at the 2026 Whitsundays Business Awards on Friday night, with recognition for their commitment to making a meaningful difference to the community for over 35 years.
From a single refuge opened in Cannonvale in 1990 by a group of local women, WCS has grown into the only free service, funded to respond to domestic, family and sexual violence across almost 24,000 square kilometres, from Collinsville to Hamilton Island. For many in this region, where the nearest comparable service is a two-hour drive south to Mackay, it’s the difference between finding support and going without.
Accepting the award, Chief Executive Officer Kirsty Gillett said it was the ripple effect on the community that makes the work so meaningful.
“Knowing that our work has made a positive difference in the lives of people across the Whitsundays is the greatest recognition we could receive,” says Kirsty.
“Being recognised in this way by our community is a privilege, and one we accept with gratitude.”
The timing could hardly be more fitting with the award landing during Sexual Violence Awareness Month. It was during this same month last year that WCS brought Reclaim the Night back to Airlie Beach, drawing seventy-five community members to walk together in support of survivors.
The spirit of bringing people together runs through much of what the organisation does, from the vibrant Child Protection Week Colour Run to the candlelight ceremonies held each year across Cannonvale and Bowen, every event is driven by a team dedicated to upholding a vision of safety and respect, and where violence has no place.
“This award really belongs to an extraordinary team of counsellors, case managers, refuge staff, support workers, volunteers and committee members who show up every day for people experiencing some of the most difficult moments of their lives,” says Kirsty.
Last year alone, WCS supported 1,866 people across the region and provided refuge for women and children with nowhere else to turn. And nationally, the statistics aren’t getting any better.
“We cannot ignore the reality that across Australia more than 50 women and 20 children have been killed by violence this year alone, and it is only October,” says Kirsty.
“I want to acknowledge the individuals and families who place their trust in us. Your courage, resilience and determination inspire us to show up every single day. You are the reason we do this work.”
For an organisation that has always believed prevention is a shared responsibility, the award is also an invitation to keep the conversation going.
“This award is a wonderful recognition of how far we’ve come, but it also reminds us of the work still to do.”
The Original Hog’s Breath Cafe Airlie Beach was awarded Highly Commended in Customer Service Excellence at Friday night’s WCC&I Business Awards.
Since taking over the OG, the team’s focus has been simple: look after people, create a great atmosphere, serve great food and drinks, and make everyone who walks through the doors feel welcome.
For owners JP and Adam, customer service is a team effort, from the first hello at the door and the signature woohoo welcome, the kitchen, bar, floor and everyone working behind the scenes.
“A massive thank you to our incredible team. This recognition belongs to every one of you!” shared JP and Adam.
“Thank you also to our locals, visitors, suppliers, friends and everyone who continues to support the OG. We genuinely appreciate every booking, every meal, every beer, every review and every recommendation.”
The OG team congratulated Bright Patch Café on winning the Small Business award and all the finalists and winners on the night.
“We’re proud of how far we’ve come — and we’re only getting started!” they added.
JP and Adam from the Original Hog’s Breath Cafe in Airlie Beach. Photo supplied
When Bowen Rail Company started in 2020, the easy option would have been to run it from Brisbane. They chose Bowen instead.
That decision was about more than an address. As Bravus’ rail freight business hauling coal from the Carmichael mine to Abbot Point, they wanted the jobs, investment, and opportunities that come with the operation to stay in regional Queensland.
In six years, the company has grown from a start-up into a regional employer of more than 200 people, the majority of whom call Bowen home. You’ll find them on the sideline at Seagulls games, poolside at Bowen Swimming Club, and in the queue at Jochheim’s most mornings.
“We buy from local suppliers wherever we can, and our traineeships give young people and those looking for a change the chance to build a future in rail without leaving Bowen,” said Brendan Lane, General Manager Infrastructure & Logistics, Bowen Rail Company.
“None of that happens without doing the job well. Our people operate a safe and efficient rail business 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and take genuine pride in what they do and what it means to their community.
“Being named Business of the Year at the 2026 Whitsunday Business Awards belongs to them. It recognises their professionalism, hard work, and commitment to Bowen and the Whitsundays from day one.
“On behalf of everyone at Bowen Rail Company and Bravus, thank you. I’m proud of how far the business has come, and prouder still that it was built in Bowen, where it belongs.”
New mum Hayley Moran has shown that raising a family and being an exceptional business leader can go hand in hand, taking home Highly Commended in the Business Leader of the Year category at Friday night’s Whitsunday Coast Chamber of Commerce and Industry (WCC&I) Business Awards.
Surprised, thrilled and elated, Hayley was glad she took the leap and left her four-month-old son at home for the first time, after her devoted husband and business co-owner of Airlie Health Hub, Paul, encouraged her to attend.
“You never know, you might win!” he told her.
Hayley’s husband’s prediction proved right, although the recognition came as a complete surprise.
“It was definitely a shock!” Hayley shared.
“I was just so grateful to be nominated, let alone receive Highly Commended. Running a small business, you rarely stop to reflect on how far you’ve come, so to be recognised alongside so many incredible local business leaders was really special.”
Hayley said the recognition was not just a win for Airlie Health Hub, but also for the suppliers, local farmers and other small businesses in the community.
“Recognition like this means so much to a small business, especially when you’ve poured your heart and soul into it.
“It’s also a win for the incredible local farmers and small producers we support, helping shine a light on their hard work and getting our name and what we stand for out into the community.”
Being recognised in the Business Leader of the Year category was particularly meaningful for Hayley, who said she had never really thought of herself as a business leader.
“I’ve never really thought of myself as a business leader, just someone who’s passionate about what we do and willing to work hard for something I believe in. So, to be recognised in this category was a real honour.”
Based in Cannonvale, Airlie Health Hub offers a refreshing alternative to mass-produced food and everyday chemical exposure, championing wholesome foods, fresh garden produce and a vibrant community centred on healthier living.
Hayley also congratulated her fellow nominees and thanked the customers who continue to support the business.
“A huge congratulations to everyone! I know firsthand how much hard work, sacrifice and determination goes into running a business. There are so many incredible people doing wonderful things in the Whitsundays, and I think we should all be really proud of what we’re contributing to our community,” she said.
“A massive thank you to our beautiful customers and community for continuing to support us. Every time you choose to shop small, you’re supporting so much more than just one business. You’re supporting local families, farmers, makersand a whole community of hardworking people. That’s something we’re incredibly passionate about.”
Collinsville Mining Disaster Remembrance statue. Photo supplied: Mayor Ry Collins
Collinsville residents gathered for the annual Miners Memorial ceremony, remembering the seven men killed in the Collinsville State Mine disaster on 13 October 1954.
At 5.50pm, the siren rang out in remembrance of the seven miners killed 72 years earlier. The ceremony also honoured those who went underground to rescue their fellow workers, with Brett Murphy sharing their story and then unveiling a new plaque in recognition of their courage.
Local school students and Collinsville Youth Coalition members joined the commemoration, supported by Collinsville Workers’ Club and volunteers, helping carry the tradition forward together.
“Well done to the Collinsville Workers' Club, the volunteers and everyone who continues to make this memorial possible each year,” said Mayor Ry Collins.
“It’s important stories like these get told.”
“It was particularly good to see younger generations involved tonight, including students from our local schools and the Collinsville Youth Coalition, helping ensure this history and tradition continues.”
Contributed with thanks to Lucky Bees Whitsundays.
Whitsunday beekeepers are being urged to prepare for Varroa mite, a honey bee parasite whose spread across Australia could affect local honey production and the pollination of crops and gardens.
Lucky Bees Whitsundays is helping local hive owners understand the threat and prepare for the monitoring and treatment needed to keep their colonies healthy.
Measuring little more than a millimetre, Varroa destructor feeds on honey bees’ fat body tissue and reproduces inside sealed brood cells, where young bees develop. It also spreads harmful viruses, with unmanaged infestations capable of causing entire colonies to collapse.
The first detection of Varroa in Australia in Newcastle back in June 2022, the parasite prompted extensive eradication efforts before authorities shifted to long-term management in September 2023.
However, recent detections in Cardwell in September and Townsville in October have prompted organisations like Lucky Bees Whitsundays to urge local beekeepers to prepare before their own hives are affected.
Managing Varroa brings extra work and expense, from regular hive checks and treatments to replacing lost colonies. For backyard beekeepers with only one or two hives, knowing where to start can be difficult.
Lucy Williams and Tim Byford, the beekeepers behind Lucky Bees Whitsundays, offer courses, workshops and hands-on training to help locals recognise pests and care for their colonies.
Their workshops are held at Eco Barge Clean Seas headquarters, with the two organisations working together to support bees and the wider Whitsunday environment.
Lucky Bees Whitsundays has also been selected as the Biosecurity Champion for the Whitsundays and surrounding areas through Queensland’s Biosecurity Champions Network.
The volunteer role connects recreational beekeepers with Biosecurity Queensland, sharing advice and raising local concerns.
Lucy and Tim are encouraging hive owners to ask questions and seek help early. A heavily infested hive can spread mites to neighbouring colonies, making cooperation between beekeepers essential.
Residents can also help by buying local honey, planting bee-friendly flowers and avoiding unnecessary pesticide use.
By helping beekeepers prepare now, Lucky Bees Whitsundays hopes to keep more local hives healthy as the threat moves closer.
Troy is a one-year-old Husky cross Kelpie looking for a forever family to share his playful, affectionate nature with.
Currently fostered in Bowen, this friendly boy loves people, is great with children and gets along well with other dogs. For him, having a brother or a sister would be a dream, giving him a companion to play with and curl up beside after a busy day of fetch.
Treats are a firm favourite, and Troy will happily show off his sitting ability to earn one. His rope toy is another favourite, so be ready for a good game of tug-of-war. Once he’s worn you out, he’ll be ready to curl up for a nap.
Troy is still learning his lead manners, but he is a quick learner who enjoys pleasing his people. He has been okay around cats, although he will need continued training and supervision.
If you have room for a loving young dog, Troy would just love to smuggle up on your couch.
To enquire about adopting him, message Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue with your name, phone number and “Troy”. If you cannot adopt, sharing his story could help him find his family.
A wreck beneath the waters of Pioneer Bay is due to be removed by 20th November, after the submerged vessel was pointed out by the public back in July.
The ship, known as the “Muddy Bay Wreck”, lies near the Port of Airlie, with the ownership of the vessel still under investigation by Maritime Safety Queensland.
A yellow special mark buoy has been placed above the wreck, and the Regional Harbour Master has issued a notice warning boaties of its location while arrangements are made to bring it ashore.
Transport and Main Roads is seeking a contractor to recover, remove and dispose of the wreck through MSQ’s Keeping Our Waterways Safe program. The Queensland Government has committed $15 million over three years to the program, which began on 1st July 2025.
The program follows years of efforts to address problem vessels across Queensland. Between July 2018 and December 2025, MSQ and partner agencies removed 1,142 vessels, while another 782 cases were resolved through other measures. A further 660 vessels remain under active monitoring because they are already derelict or at risk of becoming so.
The successful contractor will need to explain how the wreck will be recovered and taken to a licensed waste facility for destruction and disposal. Recycling and resource recovery must form part of the work, along with measures to protect the surrounding environment.
Any areas disturbed during the operation must be restored to an acceptable condition. Once the job is finished, the yellow buoy will be returned to MSQ’s operations base in Airlie Beach.
For the locals who regularly head out from Airlie and visitors exploring the bay, the removal will clear a hazard from shared waters. Until then, the yellow buoy marks the spot to keep an eye out for.
Ladies from Proserpine Community Chat & Patch Club with their quilt creation. Photo supplied
Turning creativity into a way of giving back takes talent and care, something the lovely ladies of Proserpine Community Chat & Patch Club know all about.
The group has lovingly hand-crafted and donated a stunning quilt to support a local breast cancer awareness event, demonstrating how their talents extend beyond the sewing room and into the wider community.
The beautiful quilt will be one of several raffle prizes at a yoga event hosted by a local Counselling and Wellness Practice this Sunday at Coral Sea Resort Jetty, raising awareness and much-needed funds for the Think Pink Foundation.
Raffle tickets will be available for $5 each or three for $10, with all proceeds going towards the foundation.
“Thank you very much, ladies, for supporting our event and The Think Pink Foundation,” said organiser Anna Mackenzie.
Community members are invited to join the morning of yoga and connection, with attendees encouraged to wear pink in support of breast cancer awareness.
The event begins with arrivals from 8am, followed by an 8.30am start and wrapping up at 9.30am with the raffle.
If quilting is more your style, Proserpine Community Chat & Patch Club meets every Tuesday at the Proserpine Community Centre, welcoming anyone keen to enjoy some creative time, learn new skills or simply connect with others.
Richard Evans
By Richard Evans, President, Whitsundays Writers Festival
Have you ever thought about writing down your life story, only to dismiss the idea because you’re not a writer?
Perhaps you left school early, struggled with English, or believe your life isn’t interesting enough to deserve a book.
Here’s the thing. You don’t need to be a writer to tell your story. You just need a life you’ve lived and a willingness to remember it honestly.
That’s what memoir is. It isn’t a history textbook, and you needn’t cover every year since birth. You might write about one important year, a relationship that changed you, a job that tested you, or the day you left home.
Your story doesn’t have to be extraordinary. Often the most powerful stories come from ordinary people explaining what everyday life was like in another time.
Think about the history held by people in our own region. The cane farms, fishing boats, mines and small businesses. The families who arrived from overseas, the hardships people endured and the communities they built. Official records tell us what happened. Personal memories tell us what it felt like to be there.
Your story is part of that history. And if you don’t record it, nobody will. One day your children, grandchildren or someone researching the region will be grateful you did.
Writing can also help you understand your own life. Looking back, you may discover that events you once took for granted shaped you more than you realised.
So, where do you begin?
Keep it simple. Write three sentences starting with “I remember…” Think about your childhood home, your first job or a day that changed your life. Use a photograph as a prompt. Set a timer for ten minutes and write without stopping to fix spelling or grammar.
If writing feels difficult, tell the story into your phone and ask someone to help turn the recording into words. Your local library or writing group can also help.
And forget the excuses. You don’t need perfect grammar. You can change names, keep your writing private or share only what feels comfortable. The first draft is allowed to be rough. Write badly first, fix it afterwards.
So this week, choose one memory and describe what you saw, heard and felt. Ten minutes is enough.
Your story is a gift to yourself, your family and your community. Nobody else can tell it quite the way you can. Start today.
Creativity can offer a retreat from everyday pressures and a way to process difficult emotions.
Last week, for Queensland Mental Health Week, Creative Connections Whitsunday (CCW) explored creativity and wellbeing through local artists Michael van Blerk and Debbie Stephens.
For Michael, painting offers a different space from his demanding working life.
"My day job is demanding and, at times, confronting. It asks a lot of me emotionally, and for a long time I didn't have a good place to put that weight."
After stepping away from painting for around ten years, Michael picked up a brush again about eighteen months ago. Working predominantly in oils, he often completes a painting in one session, requiring his full concentration.
"I can't be replaying the day while I'm working out an edge or a wave breaking in the dark. For those few hours, my mind finally goes quiet."
"Painting has become a way of processing the heavier things I carry and turning them into something that holds hope."
His advice is simple: "Pick something up and make something. It doesn't need to be good. It just needs to be yours."
For fellow CCW artist Debbie Stephens, creativity has been profound.
"Art has quite literally been a lifeline for me."
During difficult periods, Debbie says creating gave her somewhere safe to place her thoughts and emotions. Working with pastels shifts her attention towards colour, light and making art.
"The noise around me becomes quieter. I can focus on colour, light and the small decisions in front of me, rather than being defined by what I have been through or what I cannot do."
"Something beautiful can still come from a difficult day."
Through art, Debbie has begun rebuilding confidence, connecting with others, rediscovering joy and finding renewed hope too.
"For me, art is much more than a hobby or a distraction. It is an essential part of caring for my mental health, and at times it has genuinely helped save my life."
Perhaps one of the most important things about creativity is that it doesn't require artistic skill.
Michael and Debbie's experiences are deeply personal, but there is a common thread running through both stories. Creativity gives them somewhere to place their attention, their emotions and their experiences. It creates purpose and connection, andprovides moments when everything else becomes a little quieter.
Celebrating local creativity, connection, and community
Whitsundays Writers Festival
Richard Evans
Festival Director and President
hello@whitsundayswriters.com
Save the date for the 2027 Whitsundays Writers Festival, 10-12 September.
Creative Connections Whitsunday
Glenda Brown
President
info@creativeconnectionwhitsunday.com
Creative Connections Whitsundays supports local artists by operating the Community Gallery and delivering regular creative days and exhibitions.
Kids playing with sustainably made foosball table. Photo supplied: St Catherines
St Catherine’s Year 6 students got creative with scraps, turning discarded materials into products to sell at their school’s sustainable market stalls.
The term-long project gave students the chance to repurpose unused items from home, school or scraps found on the beach, creating everything from dog toys made with old towels to miniature foosball tables built from boxes and pegs.
The project also gave students hands-on experience in running a business, from developing and advertising their products to calculating costs, setting prices and forecasting profits.
“It wasn’t just buying something cheaply and selling it to make a profit, it was actually looking at sustainability,” said assistant principal of curriculum, Kelly Bennett.
With everything priced at $5 or less, the stalls proved popular among fellow students, with some selling out and taking further orders.
“They sold them to other students within the school and basically sold out, to the extent where some of the stalls even had to take further orders and make more of their product,” Ms Bennett said.
All proceeds from the project went towards the Year 6 graduation excursion, giving students an extra incentive to turn their creative ideas into successful products. Following its success, Ms Bennett anticipates the return of this next year.
“It was a huge success, and I think they’ll definitely want to run it again next year,” Ms Bennett said.
John-Paul Langbroek Jacob Ross. Photo Supplied: Robert Harris
From playing and umpiring hockey to performing in the school’s instrumental music program, Bowen State High School student Jacob Ross is used to getting involved. Now, he is having a say on issues affecting students across Queensland.
Jacob joined 19 other students on the Ministerial Student Advisory Council, discussing artificial intelligence in schoolwork, community involvement and what students want from their education.
Among the 20 students, Jacob was the only student representing the region stretching from Ingham to Proserpine and west to Mount Isa.
“I selected Jacob to represent Bowen SHS and our region due to his community service and outstanding leadership,” said Bowen State High School Principal, Robert Harris.
“Jacob is a positive role model for his peers and respected amongst his peers and teachers.”
At their most recent meeting in September, students considered where AI could help with learning and where it could get in the way, still aware of the need to think for themselves, check facts and develop their own ideas, rather than rely on answers generated by AI.
The group also called for clearer rules about using AI in assessment, including when it was acceptable and how students should acknowledge using it.
Learning how AI works, questioning its answers and being careful about sharing personal information were other points raised.
The conversation then turned to helping young people become more involved in their communities.
Students suggested schools could link lessons to issues beyond the classroom and help them find ways to contribute through their interests, hobbies and future careers.
They also wanted opportunities to discuss different views respectfully and learn about the wider world.
Mr Harris said Jacob’s involvement in school and community life made him well suited to these discussions.
“His active citizenship was perfect for him to be part of the council to provide his views on different issues that are impacting on education.”
Outgoing members spoke about taking ideas back to their schools and seeing earlier discussions lead to changes around bullying, vaping awareness and timetabling.
The Department of Education thanked students for their contributions, with the Education Minister praising their thoughtful discussion about AI and their experiences on the council.
Part of the Whitsunday Leisure Activity Centre team. Photo supplied: WLAC
The Whitsunday Leisure Activity Centre will celebrate its 50th Anniversary grand opening with a morning tea on the 26th, beginning a week of events for the community.
Locals are invited to join the opening celebrations, share a morning tea and explore the Centre. If you miss the opening, there’s still plenty of time to pop in, with the doors open to visitors throughout the week.
Celebrations will finish on Friday the 30th with a twilight market, bringing stalls, food and family activities to the Centre from 5pm. Enjoying an evening out with the family.
These activities are a chance for the public to see what the Centre has to offer the community, come join in the celebrations. All welcome!!
Melody Camm, Nigel Kellion, Alen Sanderson and Karen Conserdyne. All Photos supplied: Nikolai Romanov
Whitsunday Leisure Activity Centre is celebrating 50 years of helping community members find support, friendship and connection.
Supporting older residents and people with disability, the Centre reaches across the Whitsundays, from Dingo Beach to Midge Point, including Airlie Beach and Cannonvale.
Alongside special outings, such as a weekend getaway to Townsville, the Centre’s everyday services help people build confidence and independence. Whether through learning daily life skills, going out into the community or spending time with friends, the Centre creates a welcoming space where people feel comfortable, connected and supported.
“We help them with shopping, cleaning, like just and daily life skills,” said Office Coordinator, Kym Hiscox.
“[Townsville’s] just something different for them to go out of the area to also experience what’s out there.”
Days at the Centre are also something to look forward to, offering morning tea, a two-course lunch and afternoon tea, with transport available to help participants get there and home again.
A monthly activity program offers plenty of ways to spend the day, from bingo, karaoke and card games to cooking, candle making, woodworking and gardening. Community lunches, picnic outings and visits to Morning Melodies at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre also keep people connected to life around the region.
Those wanting to stay active can enjoy the therapy pool, armchair DrumFun and breathwork, while art and music activities offer time for creativity and self-expression.
That help extends beyond the Centre, too, whether someone needs a hand at home or company getting out and about.
“We try as much as we can to cater to what they require,” Kym said
Established in 1976, the Centre began when a local parent sought somewhere for young people with disabilities to go after finishing school. With support from local service clubs a committee formed and began meeting at the Proserpine Showgrounds, offering activities and opportunities to learn everyday life skills.
The Centre found a home of its own on Stanbury Street in 1983, after the council granted a 99-year lease on parkland beside the high school. With no government funding in those early years, keeping the doors open depended entirely on community fundraising. Raffles, lucky number tickets sold at the local Show, bingo at the Proserpine Bowling Club and items made and sold in the centre’s workshop all helped pay the bills and keep people coming together.
From Monday 26th to Friday 30th October, the Centre will be celebrating 50 years of service at 17 Stanbury Street, Proserpine and will be open for the public to join in the celebration.
And on Friday afternoon, the weekly celebrations conclude with a special Gala Fair with market stalls, games, week-long cent sale, a light display, free BBQ and more.
Helen Deighton has witnessed much of that history through her more than 30 years with the service, with some familiar faces still coming through the doors decades after it began.
“There's still participants coming here today that went 50 years ago to the showgrounds,” she said.
“But this is still like a home for them, where they’re comfortable.”
Volunteers played an important part in those early years, like the cook who prepared hot, two-course lunches in an ordinary household kitchen. Meals were kept affordable, with Meals on Wheels prices used as a guide.
The Centre later received government funding, but Helen said community fundraising remains essential to meeting the costs of running the service.
“To this day, we still have to do that because Government funding [Aged Care & NDIS] doesn’t fully cover everything,” she said.
Alongside its history of community care are the personal stories that make the Centre special. Participant Melody Camm’s father, Stanley Camm, helped establish the Centre 50 years ago so local people with disabilities could find connection and purpose after leaving school. Then, there’s the love story of Colin and Kaylene Giles, whose connection in the Centre blossomed into love, with the couple meeting through their association with the Centre, later marrying.
The Centre has grown over the years, opening extensions in 2000 and now employing more than 20 staff. Its next step is renovating the house purchased next door, with plans to offer supported independent living once repairs are complete.
“We’ve had to evolve to stay relevant,” Helen said.
“If you don’t change with the times, you get left behind.”
Tim Booth, CEO Tourism Whitsundays. Photo supplied
Contributed with thanks by Tourism Whitsundays
We are hosting our first ever Tourism Day, bringing together guest speakers from across the country to discuss key topics, tends and opportunities for the tourism industry.
Robbie Dalton from Localis will discuss the latest data and travel trends across the region, including the impact of events, emerging visitor demographics and where we are seeing growth. George Pappas from Gamm DX will discuss the changes to visitor search behaviour due to AI, including how these changes are impacting the tourism industry, and the opportunities available for businesses to maximise their digital presence.
Attendees will also hear from the CEO and Director of Events at Tourism and Events Queensland (TEQ), who will provide insights into the broader Queensland tourism landscape, and where we can maximise opportunities for The Whitsundays as we look towards 2032 and beyond to 2045. We will also welcome the TEQ Board to the region at the beginning of that week, providing an important opportunity for the industry to discuss critical issues facing the region, and the opportunities ahead for The Whitsundays in the coming years.
Tourism Day will be followed by our annual Tourism Awards, with over 80 local businesses up for an award this year. It’s a great opportunity to come together and celebrate all the achievements of our tourism industry over the past year.
In preparation for the upcoming Cruise Ship season, we are also holding a cruise ship workshop for members currently working with Shorex. More than 90 Cruise Ships are anticipated to visit the region over the next 12 months, with November marking the beginning of our busy season.
With our 2025/26 Annual Report now completed, I also want to congratulate the team on an incredible year of achievements. Most notably, in a year of significant changes across the digital landscape, we recorded a 71% increase in total web traffic, reaching 871k total visitors, resulting in a big increase in total leads directed to our members. Airlie Beach has also been awarded Australia’s Top Tourism Town – Small town category, recognising the strength of our destination and the outstanding experiences our region offers.
There's plenty of excitement building around the future of our Whitsunday Islands, and for good reason.
After years of seeing some of our best-known island resorts close or struggle, we're now seeing major investors putting serious money and confidence back into the Whitsundays.
From Hamilton Island's new ownership and the redevelopment of Lindeman Island to exciting plans for Hook Island and opportunities across South Molle, Long Island and Stone Island, there's a sense that a new chapter is beginning.
But here's what I think matters most.
How do we make sure this next wave of island investment delivers lasting benefits for the communities that call the Whitsundays home?
Because while the resorts might be on our islands, the economic benefits should flow right across our mainland communities.
More visitors and investment mean opportunities for local tradies, marine businesses, tourism operators, suppliers, hospitality workers and young people looking to build careers without leaving the region.
It also means thinking ahead.
Do we have the marina capacity, transport connections, marine servicing facilities, workforce and supporting infrastructure to make the most of what's coming?
And how do we ensure Bowen, Proserpine, Airlie Beach and our other communities share in that growth?
These are the conversations we need to be having now, not once the investment has already arrived.
With Olympic and Paralympic sailing coming to the Whitsundays in 2032, growing interest in superyachts and more than 100 cruise ship visits expected this year, we have an opportunity to position our region on the world stage.
But I don't believe success should simply be measured by how many new resorts open or how many visitors arrive.
It should also be measured by the jobs created, businesses supported and opportunities delivered for future generations, while protecting the natural environment that makes our islands so special.
I've spoken before about the Whitsundays potentially becoming the Riviera of the South Seas.
It's an ambitious vision, but why shouldn't we aim high?
The real prize isn't just bringing our islands back to life. It's making sure the whole Whitsunday region grows with them.
Bowen RSL President Roger Hine, Afghanistan Veteran Bradley May, Bowen RSL Vice President Dave Chambers, Speaker and Bowen RSL Secretary Marty Tanzer. Photo Supplied: Bowen RSL
Bowen RSL brought the community together on Friday for a service marking 25 years since Australian boots first touched the ground in Afghanistan, honoring the members who served whilst remembering those whose lives were lost.
Vice President Marty Tanzer delivered the opening address, reflecting on the anniversary as well as recognising and remembering Corporal Brendan Hannan, an Afghanistan veteran who was killed during a training exercise in the Northern Territory on the 5th October.
Among those in attendance was Bowen RSL member and veteran Bradley May, who served 7 years in the Australian army and was deployed Afghanistan multiple times as a gunner and a bombardier. His children were the ones who laid a wreath in remembrance of all Afghanistan veterans.
“It was really special seeing my children involved in the commemorative service, having an opportunity to lay the wreath,” Bradley said.
“As a veteran and a father, I think it’s important that the younger generation understands the sacrifices made by those who served, particularly in the more recent conflicts such as Afghanistan.”
The service gave local veterans and their families a chance to pause together, while acknowledging an anniversary with lasting personal significance.
On the 9th October two men in their 70s were left in life-threatening conditions after a Toyota four-wheel drive rolled onto its roof on a railway line at Foxdale in the Whitsundays.
Emergency crews were called to the single-vehicle crash on the Bruce Highway about 1.15pm, with both men trapped inside.
Firefighters used hydraulic cutting tools to free one man at 2.08pm and continued working to release the second.
A Queensland Ambulance Service spokeswoman said one man was taken by road to Proserpine Hospital ahead of a planned airlift, while the other was flown to Mackay Hospital. Two helicopters were called to the scene.
At time of print there has still been no update on the state of the two men.
Andrew Willcox MP and Carl Walker, Bowen farmer
Pressure on housing and demand for seasonal workers are at the centre of the migration debate in Dawson, with the Coalition proposing to cut overall migration while protecting workforce programs supporting regional industries.
Released on the 6th October, the Coalition’s Australia-First Migration Plan proposes scrapping the backpacker ballot and caps on second- and third-year working holiday visas, reducing fees for regional workers and prioritising regional employment.
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox said the plan aimed to give housing and infrastructure time to catch up while maintaining access to workers needed by local businesses.
“You cannot run a tourism economy in Airlie Beach without workers, you cannot harvest a crop in Bowen without workers,” he said.
The plan forms part of a broader push to reduce migration and follows Labor’s proposed restrictions on working holiday visas, which have raised concerns among North Queensland farmers and tourism operators who rely on backpackers to fill seasonal jobs.
“We need those people to fill the gaps in the hospitality industry, you know, to be baristas, to work behind bars, particularly around school holidays and peak periods when we need extra staff,” Mr Willcox said.
“That’s where those working holiday maker visas really fill that gap.”
“Once they haven’t got the work, then they become the holiday maker themselves.”
Beyond working holiday visas, the plan would reduce net overseas migration to 100,000 a year for the first two years, rising to 130,000 in year three and 160,000 in year four. It also proposes reducing the number of temporary visa holders by around 650,000 over four years, while capping the permanent migration program at 185,000 places annually.
Higher-skilled migrants would receive priority, with stronger requirements around income, age, English proficiency and full-time employment. The Coalition also proposes introducing 15,000 Skilled Project Visas annually to address workforce shortages on major projects.
Other changes include abolishing Temporary Graduate Visas, reducing international student migration and tightening temporary visa rules, while protecting regional programs supporting agriculture, health, tourism and hospitality.
“We will protect the regional migration programs our farmers, tourism operators and communities rely on, while bringing overall migration back to sustainable levels.
For the Whitsundays, the proposal would retain access to seasonal workers in tourism and hospitality while prioritising skilled migrants to fill shortages in areas such as construction and health care.
“We need fewer people coming overall, but we also need to make sure the people we do bring in are going to the places where they are genuinely needed,” he said.
Photo supplied: Mayor Ry Collins
The Whitsundays can breathe a sigh of relief after the Federal Government dropped its proposed 50/50 disaster recovery funding model, following sustained advocacy from Queensland councils and regional leaders.
On Friday 9th October the Federal Government confirmed it would withdraw the 50/50 disaster recovery scheme, retaining the existing funding arrangements for communities recovering from natural disasters.
"This is a huge win for disaster-prone communities like Dawson, and I'm incredibly
proud to have fought alongside our regional mayors to get this result," said Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP.
"From the moment Labor announced these cuts, I warned they would be devastating for regional councils and the ratepayers who would ultimately be left picking up the bill.
"Today, the Government has finally listened, and common sense has prevailed.”
Here in the Whitsundays, Council’s past recovery costs paint a clear picture of how much the proposed changes could have hurt the region.
“Our analysis showed the proposed 50/50 funding model could have left the Whitsundays facing an estimated $25 million funding gap if it had applied to disaster recovery works since 2018,” said Mayor Ry Collins.
“That is a massive impost for a regional council and would have meant some tough decisions around rebuilding damaged infrastructure, Council budgets and potentially additional costs for ratepayers.”
Since the proposal was announced on 5th June, regional leaders across North Queensland have pushed for the existing funding arrangements to remain, warning that the changes could place greater pressure on council budgets and ratepayers.
For Mayor Collins, this has included racing to regional meetings like the coastal leaders’ forum, joining the Local Group Association of Queensland (LGAQ) and flying down to Canberra with Andrew Willcox MP to voice regional concern.
“From regional and coastal leaders' forums to taking our case directly to Canberra, this has been a sustained and united advocacy effort,” he said.
With another disaster season approaching, the next priority points to strengthening our local infrastructure before cyclones and floods hit.
“But disaster funding isn't just about rebuilding after the event. We also need continued investment in making our roads, bridges, drainage networks and other essential infrastructure more resilient so they can better withstand future cyclones and flooding,” said Mayor Collins.
“Every dollar invested in disaster resilience now has the potential to save considerably more in recovery costs down the track.
“As we head into another disaster season, this decision provides important reassurance for our community that the funding partnership needed to help rebuild after a major disaster will remain in place.”
Sergeant Billy and Jess from the PCYC with kids. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville
The Emergency Services Field Day delivered a fun and informative Saturday morning on the Coral Sea Marina green, giving families from across the region a chance to meet the people who help keep their community safe.
Organised by Whitsunday Police Station, the event brought together police, ambulance and fire crews, Volunteer Marine Rescue, Whitsunday Water Police and Council’s disaster management team for a morning of demonstrations and activities.
The morning began with a warm welcome from Coral Sea Marina CEO Kate Preston and Councillor Jan Clifford OAM, before crews gave families a look at their skills in action.
Army cadets demonstrated a casualty evacuation, the SES showed how to sandbag a property, and firefighters demonstrated a kitchen fire trailer and the jaws of life, while Marine Rescue Queensland crews introduced visitors to a life raft.
Sliced in between was some friendly service on service competition, such as Tug-O-War which saw the recruits bested by the firies, a donut eating competition dominated by the army cadets and a push-up challenge.
The Whitsunday Lions Club was also in attendance providing a suspenseful raffle to end the day, while the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network cooked up the sausages to keep the energy up all day.
Photo supplied: Michael Kimpton
Local legend Michael Kimpton has taken his familiar smile to Hawaii, completing his third Ironman World Championship in Kona for his country and with dedication to the Whitsundays Suicide Prevention Network.
Following the Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival, Michael had just two months to focus fully on training for the challenge.
The 72-year-old Airlie Beach local qualified for the Men's 70–74 age category after taking a podium finish at IRONMAN Western Australia with a time of 13:42:16, joining more than 2,500 athletes from 87 countries for the most gruelling ironman in the world.
The course consists of a 3.8-kilometre ocean swim in Kailua Bay, followed by a 180-kilometre bike ride across Hawaii’s volcanic landscape and a marathon to finish.
High temperatures, intense humidity and strong coastal winds tested competitors throughout the day, with 2,261 making it across the finish line.
“It is the ultimate test in athlete willpower & endurance as they endeavour to conquer the challenging course,” said Michael.
With a standard Ironman cut-off of around 17 hours Michael’s finishing time of 14 hours, 48 minutes and 41 seconds, completed in front of his wife and daughter, was even more impressive.
“I am a very happy man to have completed this World Championship event in 2022, 2024 and 2026, it’s absolutely amazing,” Michael said.
“An unforgettable journey in the heart of the triathlon birthplace!”
Michael’s latest finish reflected his consistency across three appearances at Kona, coming just 18 minutes behind his 2022 time and nine minutes behind his 2024 result.
“My dad is an actual superhero!” his daughter, Elle Bree, commented on Instagram.
Beyond his own sporting goals, Michael dedicated this year’s race to raising money and awareness for the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network.
“This year my Race was dedicated to Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network, an inspiring cause and all funds go directly to them,” said Michael.
By the time he crossed the finish line, his efforts had helped raise $2,900 to support local suicide prevention initiatives, while encouraging people struggling with their mental health to reach out for help.
Born in Tasmania and having spent 16 years on the stunning Gold Coast, I’ve always been drawn to beautiful locations. My career took me to the high seas, working on super yachts based in Palma Mallorca, where I developed a keen eye for luxury and attention to detail.
After a memorable visit to the Whitsundays, I found my forever home in this tropical paradise, a place where I can enjoy the breathtaking natural beauty that surrounds us and be part of a friendly close-knit community.
As the first point of contact in the front office, I’m dedicated to creating a welcoming and professional experience for all clients and visitors. With a background in customer service and administration, I take pride in maintaining smooth day-to-day operations, managing enquiries efficiently, and ensuring everyone feels supported from the moment they walk through the door.
My goal is to provide a positive and helpful experience in every interaction.
When I am not making real estate dreams come true, I love going on adventures with my daughter and have a love for all things sport, health and fitness.
By Richard Evans, President, Whitsundays Writers Festival
Before most of us have finished breakfast, we have probably written something.
A shopping list. A text message. A reminder to buy milk. Perhaps a note that makes perfect sense at 7am and looks remarkably mysterious by lunchtime.
None of this feels particularly literary. Yet these small acts belong to the same human impulse that produces a poem, a diary or a novel.
We write to communicate, certainly. But we also write to think.
A thought that seemed perfectly clear in our head can become surprisingly slippery once we try to write it down. Suddenly we have to decide what we actually mean.
The novelist E.M. Forster put it neatly: “How can I tell what I think till I see what I say?”
Writing slows us down just enough to make us choose.
A vague feeling becomes a sentence. A complicated idea becomes something we can explain.
An argument that sounded convincing in our head can occasionally be exposed as complete nonsense.
Writing is one of the ways we work out what we have to say in the first place.
Nor does it need to be long. Consider the six-word story often credited to Ernest Hemingway: “For sale: baby shoes, never worn.”
Six words, and an entire story of hope and loss. There is no evidence Hemingway wrote it, but it shows what every writer learns: what we leave out can matter as much as what we put in.
Think about how many forms writing takes.
The email that prevents a misunderstanding. The handwritten note that says, “I was thinking of you.” The diary where private thoughts have somewhere to land. The story that allows us to briefly inhabit somebody else’s life.
The manuscript is a different beast. It requires persistence, patience and the willingness to discover that yesterday’s brilliant sentence may not be quite so brilliant today.
Writing is also exercise for the mind. It asks us to remember, concentrate, organise ideas, make choices and use our imagination.
The keyboard has made writing faster, but speed is not necessarily the same as depth. Writing by hand, with its deliberate pace, can give the mind more time to select, connect and remember.
Either way, the important thing is that we keep doing it.
At the Whitsundays Writers Festival, we see people with different ambitions. Some want to write a memoir or poetry. Some dream of a crime novel. Others simply want encouragement to put the first words on the page.
Writing is not reserved for the naturally gifted. It is a practice. And like most things we practise, we get better at it.
So here is my suggestion for today. Write something.
Not a novel. Not even a short story.
Describe the view from your window. Record something funny that happened this week. Try a six-word story. Write a letter to someone you care about, even if you never send it.
It doesn’t have to be good. It just has to be written.
Every time we put words on a page, we give our thoughts somewhere to live.
And sometimes, that is where the interesting things begin.
If you’ve driven along the Bruce Highway through Proserpine recently, you may have noticed something colourful across from the Community Gallery.
The palm trees have been transformed with bold artworks as part of Colour the Whitsundays, a public art project bringing creativity into everyday spaces and showcasing local talent to passing motorists.
The project began in January 2025, with six potential highway sites identified and two ultimately selected for installations.
The first, now outside the Community Gallery, was created by the Whitsunday Public Art Group working together on the installation. A second project by students from St Catherine’s Catholic College will soon add another splash of colour to the precinct.
The installation presented some practical challenges. While the original concept was to “fibre bomb” the palms, natural fibres were unlikely to withstand the Whitsundays’ harsh climate. Instead, the group developed a system using UV-resistant outdoor fabric, specialised fabric paint and UV-resistant thread, secured with shock cord without permanently attaching anything to the trees.
The design also needed to make an impact for motorists travelling past at around 60km/h.
Supported through the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF), with assistance from Whitsunday Regional Council, Creative Connections Whitsunday and local creatives, the project brings art beyond the Gallery and into the community.
And this may only be the beginning. Who knows where Colour the Whitsundays might appear next?
A new exhibition celebrating the landscapes and character of the Whitsundays is now on display at the Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine Community Creative Space at Whitsunday Plaza.
From Cane Fields to Coral Reefs: The Whitsundays Through the Eyes of Local Artists brings together work by six local artists, each offering a different perspective on the region and the places that inspire them.
Lenny Pennell showcases her reef-inspired work, Whispers Beneath the Whitsundays, capturing the energy of the region's marine environment.
Linda Forrester is also featured with Border Island, a painting capturing the landscape and afternoon light of the Whitsundays.
The exhibition also includes work by Carol Shannon, Jacqui Henderson, Lucy Seddon Brown and Oliver Seddon Brown.
The Community Creative Space is part of an ongoing partnership between Creative Connections Whitsundays and Bendigo Community Bank, providing local artists with opportunities to exhibit in community spaces.
The exhibition is free to visit Monday to Friday, 9.30am–4pm, with a lunch closure from 1–2pm.
All artworks are available for purchase, supporting local artists.
Tim Oberg with his supporting family. Photo supplied
Five years after being diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, Local Tim Oberg is sharing his story in the hope of offering support to others navigating life with the condition.
A teacher, coach and founder of Parkrun Australia and the Healthy Kids Project, Tim marked the start of Mental Health Awareness Month by encouraging anyone living with Type 1 diabetes, newly diagnosed or supporting a loved one to reach out for a chat.
Diagnosed on September 29th 2021, he has spent the past five years learning to manage the daily challenges while connecting with others who understand them.
“There is something incredibly valuable about talking to people who just get it, without needing much explanation,” Tim said.
“I have learned a lot from others, and these days I also get a huge amount of satisfaction from being able to support people who are newly diagnosed and trying to make sense of it all.”
Tim has faced his share of challenges along the way, including finding the confidence to tell his children about his diagnosis. For the first couple of years, he kept it to himself, worried they would be frightened by seeing him inject insulin.
“When I finally did tell them, the relief was enormous. And, of course, they were completely fine,” he said.
“These days I can inject insulin in front of them and nobody bats an eyelid. It is simply part of Dad being Dad.”
For Tim, coping starts with approaching the diagnosis as a challenge he can learn to manage, supported by a daily routine that helps him look after his health.
“I could see myself as a ‘victim’ of diabetes, or I could treat it as another challenge to understand, confront and manage. I chose the latter,” he wrote.
Discipline plays a big part in that approach, with Tim finding a routine that suits him personally, including a low-carbohydrate diet and daily movement, whether it’s a workout or a walk.
“Five years in, I would never pretend Type 1 diabetes is easy, as it requires attention every day and there are no holidays from it,” Tim said.
“Diabetes is something I manage, it is not who I am.”
While Tim would happily give back the diagnosis, he says the past five years have helped him better understand his body.
“While I would happily give it back tomorrow, I can also say that it has made me more disciplined, more conscious of my health, more connected to others, and more determined to look after myself and keep moving every day,” he said.
Connecting with others in the Type 1 diabetes community has also made a difference, and Tim hopes to offer that same understanding to anyone who needs a chat.
“Another really positive part of the last five years has been connecting with other people in the Type 1 diabetes community, both in the flesh and online,” said Tim.
“There is something incredibly valuable about talking to people who just get it, without needing much explanation.
“Please reach out, I am always happy to talk.”
April McEachern. Photo supplied
April McEachern is rolling her way through October, aiming to skate 100 kilometres in an effort to raise money for mental health awareness.
Taking part in the One Foot Forward challenge, April is swapping the suggested fundraising walks or runs for her longtime passion of roller skating.
“Last year I aimed at 80 kilometres, I managed to get 99 kilometres, so this year we’re doing 100ks,” April said.
For April, the challenge is personal. Having lost her father to suicide when she was just three and later faced difficult relationships and her own mental health struggles, she knows how much it matters to have someone in your corner.
Those experiences have shaped her desire to support others, sparking her work in aged care and previous roles in pathology, community care and disability support, as well as time spent checking in on friends or shopping for a 91-year-old former client.
“I want people to feel compassion, care and know that there is always someone that will be there,” April said.
Getting outdoors has become an important part of maintaining her positivity, with skating holding a special place in her life since childhood.
Her late brother worked as a DJ at their local skating rink, where she spent weekends joining in the games and sitting with him in the booth. Years later, after moving to Bowen, joining roller derby helped her find a community of her own.
“But with skating, for me, that’s my freedom. I can put them on. I forget who I am. Everything that I’ve had to deal with is gone,” April said.
“So if I finish my shift and I’ve had a rough day, if I’ve had a resident pass away or we’ve had issues with them, I can put my skates on, I can put my headphones on and I can just let it go.”
“I found being outside, doing active things has really helped me get through my struggles.”
Now, she is hoping to raise through the challenge while encouraging others to get involved, with all the money being raised being put in mental health services around Bowen. She also has a longer-term ambition to see a mental health hub establishedin Bowen, giving people a place to connect and feel supported.
“If I can even just raise $100, that’s $100 that’s going to help,” April said.
“I want a mental health hub here in Bowen, I want it for the entire community,” April said.
“I want a place where they can all come and get together and be a part of the community.”
April is well and truly underway in her quest.
Could trauma sometimes look like ADHD?
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and trauma are very different experiences, but some of the difficulties they create can look remarkably similar. Problems with concentration, forgetfulness, restlessness, impulsivity, irritability, emotional regulation and sleep can occur in both.
This can make understanding what is really happening more complicated than simply ticking off a list of ADHD symptoms.
A child who has experienced ongoing stress or trauma may appear distracted, restless, impulsive or emotionally reactive. An adult who has lived through trauma may struggle to concentrate, organise everyday tasks or regulate their emotions. These difficulties can sometimes look like ADHD, particularly when the impact of trauma has been present for a long time.
At the same time, someone with ADHD may also experience trauma during their lifetime. ADHD and trauma can therefore exist together, making it important not to assume that one explanation automatically rules out the other.
Understanding when the difficulties started is an important part of assessment. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition, with symptoms beginning in childhood, whereas trauma-related difficulties may develop or become more noticeable following traumatic experiences. However, when adversity occurs early in life or continues over time, the picture can be much more complex.
There is also an important reminder here: the body can hold the score of what we have experienced.
Trauma does not simply affect our thoughts or memories. Stress can influence the way the body responds to perceived threat, including sleep, muscle tension, arousal, energy, concentration and emotional responses. Sometimes the body continues to respond as though it needs to remain alert, even when the person consciously knows they are safe.
This is one reason it is important to look at the whole person rather than focusing only on a list of symptoms.
A thorough assessment considers developmental history, experiences of trauma and adversity, current functioning and how difficulties occur across different environments. Information from parents, teachers, partners or other important people can also help build a clearer picture. Most importantly, the person's own understanding of their experiences needs to be heard.
At Personal Transitions, we believe that understanding why someone is struggling is just as important as identifying what they are struggling with. ADHD, trauma or both may require different approaches, and getting the formulation right helps guide an appropriate treatment plan.
If you or your child are experiencing difficulties with attention, emotional regulation, behaviour or coping, seeking a comprehensive assessment can be an important first step.
For more support with ADHD, trauma or emotional wellbeing, visit Personal Transitions- https://www.personaltransitions.com.au/ or contact Cristie on 0488 667 264 or Sharon on 0418 708 214.
Donna Lawrence and Dr Paul Henderson. Photo supplied: Donna Lawrence
Donna Lawrence shared a personal side of her life through art, when her exhibition opened at the Whitsunday Sailing Club on Saturday 3rd October.
Held as part of Mental Health Week, the free community opening began at 3pm and introduced work exploring Donna’s lived experience with bipolar disorder.
“I was really, really pleased with the turnout,” Donna said.
“A lot of people came that I didn’t even know. So that was really fantastic.”
The nationally recognised visual artist used her work to express emotions and experiences that can be difficult to explain in conversation, offering a window into life with mental health challenges.
“My work actually aims to describe emotions or moods that occur … from day to day, you know, ups and downs and everything in between,” Donna said.
The exhibition invited people to spend time with those experiences, consider another perspective and begin conversations of their own.
While the artwork was central to the afternoon, the opening allowed people to meet Donna and learn first-hand about the personal journey behind her creative practice. Her willingness to share that part of her life gave the exhibition a purpose beyond displaying her work.
Visitors on Saturday night were also treated to a talk by Mackay psychiatrist Dr Paul Henderson, who helped support the event’s focus on mental health awareness.
“The speech by Paul Henderson was just beautiful, it made a lot of people cry,” Donna said.
The exhibit will remain up in the Sailing Club till Monday 12th October.
A sea of pink. Photos supplied: Colin Edgerton
Port Denison Gun Club turned pink on 27th September, raising $4,760 for breast cancer support, with the club topping up the donation to $5,000.
Sponsored by Mardos Mangoes, the fundraiser attracted 44 shooters for a day of competition, with donated raffle prizes and pink morning teas adding a big of flavour to the meet.
“Even our morning teas were all pink, we had marshmallows and cakes, everything was pink,” said Club Secretary Colin Edgerton.
Shooters competed in a 25-target point score event and a 75-target Champion of Champions event, shot from 18 metres, which drew interest from competitors across the Burdekin, Townsville and Mackay areas.
Following the successful event, members plan a blue-themed fundraiser supporting prostate cancer awareness next year.
“It went really well, and because it was such a success, we’re going to do it again next year but next year, we’re going to do it for prostate cancer,” Colin said.
Meet Grundy, a nine-year-old Kelpie cross with a heart of gold and plenty of love left to give.
Calm, confident and loyal, Grundy is the kind of dog who loves being by your side. He enjoys his daily walks, gets along well with other dogs and is great with kids.
Grundy takes his role as a yard protector seriously, but once the job is done, he’s happiest relaxing with his people.
He would suit a calm family home with secure fencing or a ground-floor apartment. Grundy must be allowed to sleep inside and isn’t suited to homes with cats or chickens.
He is desexed, vaccinated, microchipped, heartworm negative and up to date with flea, tick and worming treatments.
After nine years of giving his loyalty and love, Grundy is ready to find someone who will give it back.
Grundy’s adoption fee is $300 and he is available now through Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue.
To enquire, send the rescue a direct message to Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue or email bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com with your name, phone number and “Grundy”.
Ocean Rafting Scenic Flights. Photo supplied
Tourism in the Whitsundays is riding high, with Bowen’s Visitor Information Centre welcoming a record number of visitors in a single day and international spending across the region reaching an all-time high.
The latest figures released by Tourism Whitsundays show international visitor spending reached a record $273 million in the year ending June 2026, up 26.9 per cent on the previous year. Overseas travellers were also taking their time on their Whitsundays holidays, staying an average of 7.8 nights and spending $1,542 per person.
“International expenditure is at an all time high and visitors from around the world are now staying longer in the region than ever before, indicating that global markets have real confidence in The Whitsundays and the experiences on offer here,” said Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth.
Aussies were also making their presence felt, with domestic travellers contributing $997 million in spending and 678,000 Australians staying overnight in the region.
For local businesses, the figures reflect a positive year, with the Sales and Marketing Captain for Ocean Rafting Nathan Fleming saying the team had noticed strong international presence, while also enjoying the Aussie faces that simply wanted to escape the cold.
“Especially with our scenic flights, it seems to be a bucket list for a lot of people, but also our boat portion as well,” he said.
“[Aussies] do like to get out of the old cold weather and explore the nicer, warmer climate, especially over that winter period over the last few months.”
Bowen’s Visitor Information Centre also enjoyed a strong financial year, with the team beside the Big Mango welcoming more than 65,000 visitors through its doors, up 16 per cent on the previous year.
That momentum continued into its busiest September yet, with 8,576 people stopping by during the month. This included a record day on 24th September, when the team greeted 552 visitors.
This broke the previous records from last September when the team saw 545 people, a result that Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business Leanne Abernethy was pleasantly surprised with.
“We didn’t think we would ever be able to top those numbers again, but we did,” she said.
“We have certainly noticed an increase in the number of people making a daytrip to Bowen when staying in Airlie Beach for the holidays.
“They absolutely love our beaches, walks and lookouts and the fact you can snorkel directly off the beach.”
Despite the strong results, concerns remain over changes to working holiday visas, with businesses such as Ocean Rafting hoping the proposal is rectified quickly in order to keep this success.
“That's a demographic for us, not just coming to play in the Whitsundays, but also work in the Whitsundays as well,” he said.
“So we do need to get that sorted to hopefully keep that youth and adventure market driving through for us because that's a very big key part of our market.”
With sweeping Coral Sea views and the heart of town just a short walk away, Pinnacles is already known and loved by visitors to Airlie Beach. But now the team has another reason to celebrate. Pinnacles has been named a finalist in the 2026 Queensland Tourism Awards in the Self-Contained Accommodation category.
Members of the team will join fellow Whitsundays tourism operators at the awards in November, hoping to bring home gold.
"We’re incredibly proud to once again be a Queensland Tourism Awards finalist and represent the Whitsundays,” said Pinnacles Marketing Manager Therese Moran.
“It’s always a wonderful opportunity to come together and celebrate our tourism industry and the people behind it.
“We wish all our fellow Whitsundays finalists the very best in November – hopefully there’ll be plenty of gold coming home to the Whitsundays."
For visitors making Airlie Beach their home for a few days, Pinnacles offers space to unpack and ease into the local lifestyle.
With one to three bedroom apartments, with fully equipped kitchens, these spaces give guests room to settle in and find their own holiday rhythm.
A quiet evening might mean a soak in the spa or time on the balcony overlooking the Coral Sea, with town just a walk down the hill.
At the heart of it all is that home-away-from-home feeling, that has earned pinnacles the gold in this category the last 3 years.
Glenn Wolmal, Leanne Abernethy and Cindy Tonks. Photo source: Leanne Abernethy
The Bowen Visitor Information Centre is a finalist in the Queensland Tourism Awards, along with the dedicated team of Bowen Tourism and Business volunteers.
Bowen Tourism and Business Manager Leanne Abernethy said being named a finalist at State level was an honour and something the entire team was very proud of.
“To be finalists in more than one category is awesome and a wonderful recognition of the hard work of our staff and volunteers,” she said.
The Bowen Visitor Information Centre welcomed a record number of visitors during the past financial year, with more than 65,000 people calling into the centre beside the Big Mango.
“Our visitor numbers continue to grow, and our team works hard every day to make sure everyone who walks through the doors receives a warm welcome and great local advice,” Leanne said.
The Bowen Tourism and Business volunteers are once again among the finalists, building on last year’s Bronze in the state awards’ volunteer category.
“Our volunteers go above and beyond every day to ensure our visitors feel very welcome,” Leanne said.
“The number of volunteers has increased in the past 12 months, and they are all incredibly dedicated to promoting Bowen and the wider Whitsundays region.
“Their knowledge of the local area is amazing, and they greet every visitor with a smile.
“We simply couldn’t provide the level of service we do without them.”
Three representatives from Bowen Tourism and Business will attend the Queensland Tourism Awards on November 6 on the Gold Coast.
Whitsunday Coast Airport and Shute Harbour Marine Terminal are among nine local finalists at the upcoming Queensland Tourism Awards. Photos supplied
There is plenty to celebrate in the Whitsundays, with nine of our region’s tourism businesses, organisations and facilities named finalists in the 2026 Queensland Tourism Awards.
From Bowen to Airlie Beach, our islands and gateways to the Great Barrier Reef, the finalists are a great snapshot of the people, places and experiences that make the Whitsundays one of Australia’s leading visitor destinations.
This year’s Whitsunday finalists include Bowen Tourism and Business Volunteers, Bowen Visitor Information Centre, Iconic Whitsunday Adventures, InterContinental Hayman Great Barrier Reef, Pinnacles Airlie Beach, Tourism Whitsundays and Whitsunday Escape, along with two of Council’s own facilities, Whitsunday Coast Airport and Shute Harbour Marine Terminal.
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said having such a strong field of local finalists was something the whole region could celebrate.
“To have nine Whitsunday finalists recognised on the Queensland stage is a fantastic achievement and I congratulate every one of them,” Mayor Collins said.
“Tourism is part of the lifeblood of the Whitsundays and behind every great visitor experience are passionate people who work hard every day to make our region shine.”
Council is especially proud to see Whitsunday Coast Airport and Shute Harbour Marine Terminal among the finalists, with both playing an important role as gateways connecting visitors with the Whitsundays.
Mayor Collins said the recognition belonged to the Council teams behind both operations.
“I’m extremely proud of our teams at Whitsunday Coast Airport and Shute Harbour Marine Terminal. They put an enormous amount of work into delivering great facilities and a positive experience for the thousands of people who travel through these gateways.”
“Being named finalists is great recognition for their hard work, but this is also about celebrating the success of our entire tourism industry.”
Tourism in the Whitsundays is a team effort.
Every visitor who arrives here experiences much more than our beaches, islands and reef. They meet the volunteers welcoming people to Bowen, tourism operators taking visitors onto the water, accommodation and hospitality teams, airport and terminal staff and the many local businesses that help make a Whitsunday holiday memorable.
The recognition also comes during another strong year for the region, with Whitsunday Coast Airport continuing to record strong passenger growth and playing an increasingly important role in connecting the region with the rest of Australia.
Mayor Collins said the finalists reflected the quality and passion found right across the Whitsundays.
“These finalists are great ambassadors for our region and should be proud of what they have achieved.
“On behalf of the Council and our community, congratulations to all nine finalists and good luck on awards night. The Whitsundays will be cheering you on.”
Allan Molistic, president of the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce
One of the priorities of the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry is making sure the issues affecting Whitsunday businesses are heard – not just locally, but in the regional and national conversations where decisions are made.
There are a few areas where the Chamber has been particularly active recently.
Standing up for our regional workforce
Alongside Chambers from across Central, North and Far North Queensland, we have joined a united call for the Federal Government to review proposed changes to the Working Holiday Maker visa program before they are implemented. For many Whitsunday businesses, particularly in tourism and hospitality, these workers are an important part of the workforce.
Our message is simple: regional Queensland needs more workers, not fewer. We are calling for meaningful consultation with regional businesses, a review of the 88-day regional work requirement and regional classifications that better reflect the realities of today’s workforce.
Speaking up on the cost of doing business
The latest Reserve Bank interest rate increase to 4.6 per cent adds another pressure point for businesses already dealing with higher operating, energy and fuel costs, workforce challenges and increasing regulatory requirements.
The Chamber continues to support the broader business community’s call for governments to focus on creating the conditions businesses need to invest, employ and grow – including improving productivity, access to skills and innovation, while reducing unnecessary red tape.
Keeping businesses informed about change
There have also been some important changes to card payment surcharges from 1 October. Businesses can no longer add surcharges for EFTPOS, Mastercard or Visa debit, credit and prepaid card payments, while American Express is also removing surcharges voluntarily.
While these changes are intended to improve transparency and competition in payment services, they are another example of the practical changes businesses need to understand and implement.
These issues are different, but they all come back to the same thing: businesses need certainty, practical policy, and the right conditions to get on with investing, employing, and growing.
That is what we want the Chamber to keep doing – listening to our members, taking their concerns forward, and working collectively to make sure the Whitsundays has a strong voice at the table.
Recent bushfires across the Whitsunday Region, including fires that have caused road and highway closures, are a timely reminder of just how quickly conditions can change.
Thankfully, our emergency services have responded quickly but seeing how fast these fires can develop reinforces the importance of being prepared.
Across parts of the Whitsundays, conditions are drying out quickly.
We live in North Queensland and understand that natural hazards are part of life here. Bushfires, severe storms, flooding and cyclones are very different events, but the same principle applies to all of them: the best time to prepare is before there is an emergency.
For people living in or near bushfire-prone areas, now is a good opportunity to take a walk around the property.
Keep grass and vegetation maintained, clear leaves and other combustible material from around buildings, make sure access to your property is clear and think about what you would do if fire threatened your area.
Most importantly, have a Bushfire Survival Plan and make sure everyone in your household knows it.
Where would you go? What would you take? What happens with pets? How would you stay informed?
Those decisions are much easier to make around the kitchen table than when there is smoke in the air and an emergency warning on your phone.
It is equally important to know where you will get reliable information. Council’s Disaster Dashboard is worth bookmarking now, providing a central source for local warnings, road conditions and other information during an emergency.
And while bushfire is front of mind at the moment, it won’t be long before our attention turns towards the summer storm and cyclone season.
We can’t control what the weather throws at us, but we can control how prepared our households and properties are.
Recent bushfires across the Whitsunday Region have also shown the best of our community — people looking out for each other and supporting our emergency services and first responders.
Their efforts are a reminder that we all have a part to play. The best thing the rest of us can do is make sure our homes, properties and families are prepared before an emergency happens.
Years of community fundraising and long construction days are about to become a place to call home for women facing homelessness, with Proserpine’s tiny homes project preparing to open its doors.
Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins will cut the ribbon at the official opening on Thursday 19th November, marking a milestone for everyone who has helped bring the project to life.
Volunteer project coordinator Sandy Clark said support had come from across the Whitsundays, with thousands of people contributing over the years.
The community had played an important part, attending a number of events over several years Sandy said.
Serious fundraising began around 2022, with locals gathering for dinners and other events to help turn the idea into something tangible. Raffles and auctions added to the funds raised, while building businesses donated materials or offered discounted prices.
The project was initiated by Whitsunday Housing Company Limited, a charity providing rental housing for vulnerable community members, and focuses on women aged 50 and over who are experiencing homelessness, including those needing somewhere to stay in an emergency.
“Which could be anything like a broken relationship, ill health, it could be just the fact that their skills are no longer relevant,” Sandy said.
“If they’re sleeping rough, they’re at the risk of being injured or taken advantage of.”
Beyond accommodation, the team hopes to help residents build skills that could open a path back into employment.
“So we’re also going to try and help them to reskill if we can,” Sandy said.
“So that they can get back to work and get a job and work into something full-time.”
Photo supplied: Whitsundays Regional Council
Whitsunday Coast Airport continues to punch above its weight on the national stage, recording the second-highest passenger growth of any major Australian airport.
The latest Bureau of Infrastructure and Transport Research Economics (BITRE) figures show the Council-owned airport recorded passenger growth of 10.6 per cent for the year ending June 2026, second only to Karratha Airport at 11.6 per cent.
The result was more than three times the national passenger growth rate of 3.1 per cent and well ahead of many of Australia’s larger airports.
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the latest figures were another strong vote of confidence in the Whitsundays as a destination and reflected the growing importance of Whitsunday Coast Airport to the regional economy.
“Whitsunday Coast Airport might be a regional airport, but it continues to deliver some seriously big results for our region,” Mayor Collins said.
“To be the second-fastest growing airport in Australia is a fantastic result and shows just how strong demand for the Whitsundays continues to be.
“Our airport is much more than somewhere people arrive and depart. It is one of the key gateways to the Whitsundays and a major driver of our visitor economy.
“Every extra passenger coming through the terminal potentially means another visitor staying in our accommodation, eating in our restaurants, booking a tour and spending money with local businesses.”
Mayor Collins said the result also reflected strong partnerships with airlines to increase capacity and improve connectivity into the region.
“We’ve worked hard with our airline partners to grow services and make it easier for people to fly directly into the heart of the Great Barrier Reef,” he said.
“The benefit is not just for tourism. Better connectivity also gives our residents more choice and makes the Whitsundays an even more attractive place to live, work and invest.”
The strong passenger figures come as Whitsunday Coast Airport continues to earn recognition within the tourism industry, with the airport also in the running for national tourism honours.
Mayor Collins said the results and national recognition were something the community could be proud of, but the focus was firmly on what comes next.
“We’re not interested in sitting back and patting ourselves on the back. We want to keep growing routes, building capacity and giving locals more choice about where and when they can fly,” he said.
“We know the Whitsundays is a destination people want to visit, so our job is to keep opening up opportunities to get them here while making sure our community benefits from that growth.
“We’ve got a regional airport serving a world-class destination, and we’re only getting started.”
Whitsundays Wind Farm Action Group. Photo supplied
By Zach Houtenville
In a decision welcomed by many local residents, Whitsunday Regional Council has rejected Alinta Energy’s application for a 160-metre meteorological mast linked to the proposed Mount Challenger Wind Farm.
The decision came at the council meeting in Bowen on the 23rd September where the council came to a unanimous decision.
“For me, it came down to the size and visibility of the structure, the rural character of the area and what we heard from the people who live there,” said Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins.
“After weighing all of that up, I wasn’t satisfied a structure of that scale in that location was the right planning outcome.”
For the Whitsundays Wind Warm Action Group, the decision adds to another recent streak of milestone moments over the 12 months span since the project was first proposed, including a 6,000-signature petition and the developer withdrawing part of the proposed project.
“We were stoked as a community,” said member of the Whitsundays Wind Farm Action Group Alysha Lee.
“For us, it definitely signals that the council are listening.”
Alinta Energy said the mast was intended to measure wind conditions in the northern project area, helping the company decide how to proceed. It will now consider Council’s reasons for rejecting the application before deciding its next move.
“We acknowledge Council’s decision and will review its reasons in detail once the Decision Notice is issued before considering next steps for the project,” an Alinta Energy spokesperson said.
Council doors are still opened to future energy projects, with a willingness to work with developers who plan carefully and engage with local communities.
“I don’t see this as Council saying no to renewable energy or investment in our region,” Mayor Collins said.
“I support a balanced energy mix and I believe the Whitsundays has a role to play in future energy development, but that doesn’t mean every project is right for every location.
“What we are saying is that development needs to be in the right place, planned properly and take into account the communities that are being asked to live alongside it.”
The Wind Farm Action Group is now eager to hear Alinta’s next steps, with Alysha hoping that the next milestone will be a full withdrawal from the project.
“We’ll be approaching Alinta and asking when they’re pulling out of this project,” she said.
The group also hopes Council’s upcoming Community Benefit Agreement policy will give developers and landholders clearer guidance on suitable locations for renewable energy projects.
Mayor Ry Collins said the policy would consider what host communities receive in return, alongside impacts on nearby residents, local jobs and procurement, housing and infrastructure pressures, and the protection of agricultural land and the environment.
“At the end of the day, communities should see a genuine local benefit from hosting these major projects,” he said.
“As I said at the Council meeting, the transition to new forms of energy needs to be done with communities, not simply around them.”
Photo source: Skyway Development
The Whitsunday Skyway has been promoted as a game-changing tourism project for Airlie Beach, but residents living near the proposed route say they still have questions about consultation and the project’s changed footprint.
The state government announced the project’s Prescribed Project status on 3rd June, a move intended to streamline approvals for the proposed 1.8-kilometre cableway which has been officially planned since 2026 but a point of discussion for 20 years.
The project, backed by a $5 million state government commitment, is expected to include a summit station, luge-style ride, dining and cultural experiences, events facilities and walking tracks, with the government saying it could create up to 390 jobs during construction and at least 80 jobs once complete.
“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to showcase the natural beauty of the Whitsundays in an innovative way,” said Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie.
“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.”
However, residents of Raintree Place near the proposed location of the project, have spoken out, stating their concern is not with the concept of the Skyway itself, but with more recent changes to the proposal, including the relocation of the base station to Waterson Way. They allege that these changes were implemented without direct consultation with nearby households.
According to local resident Pascale Whyte, a Variation Request lodged by the proposal’s consultants on 8th August 2025 relocated the cableway base station from its original site at the end of Raintree Place, behind nearby homes, to 45–71 Waterson Way in central Airlie Beach.
The document stated the changes are intended to provide greater access to the Airlie Beach tourist precinct and improve access for cruise ship passengers arriving through the Port of Airlie.
Pascale claims that she represents a group of residents who were not directly notified of the change, only becoming aware of the relocation through a AATG WOU shareholder announcement filed on the National Stock Exchange on 26th September 2025.
“Our base station was relocated from the hillside behind us to the centre of Airlie Beach without any consultation with us,” she said.
“They did a submission of change which no one knew about, putting the Skyway base station at the front of us in town.
“People still aren’t aware of it.”
These changes, according to Pascale, mean the skyway line would run in intrusive proximity to their properties.
In addition to the property impact, residents have raised environmental concerns in conjunction with the project’s layout.
Their concern is that clearing vegetation for the proposed luge and surrounding infrastructure could leave the steep hillside more vulnerable to erosion or landslides during heavy rain and cyclones.
Pascale pointed out the example of Queenstown, New Zealand. Back in 2023, a major landslip directly linked to their Skyline project caused a nighttime evacuation, 10 houses to be deemed unsafe to inhabit and millions in damages.
The group hopes Council’s Draft Environment Strategy will introduce stronger safeguards for areas like Conway National Park, following the passage of Queensland’s controversial Critical Minerals legislation on 27th August.
“They have just passed a law that lets a private luge and cable car be treated as more strategic than the residents who live underneath it,” Pascale said.
“In Queensland, we call that losing your rights to a fair go.”
The group is asking for the base station to return to its originally proposed mid-hill site behind Raintree Place, rather than the revised site near their homes.
“We don’t oppose the development,” Pascale said.
“We want to be able to have a say.”
As the proposal moves through the formal assessment process, engineering and design studies will be undertaken to examine ground conditions, visual impacts and potential noise from the development.
A spokesperson for the Whitsunday Skyway Project said:
“WOU continue to work closely with the Queensland State Government and the Whitsunday Regional Council and are committed to providing full transparency to the community and residents in relation to planning approvals and alignments at a time when certainty can be provided.”
A local couple recently took to social media to praise and thank the team at Proserpine Hospital. Photo supplied by Michael Campbell
A local couple recently took to social media to share praise of the staff at Proserpine Hospital, recognising the incredible work and care the team provided while welcoming their first child.
Michael Campbell said he and his partner were grateful for the care they received from the hospital’s midwives and medical team throughout the birth.
He said the team went above and beyond to ensure his partner felt comfortable, supported and cared for during the experience.
“Every member of the team went above and beyond to make sure my partner was comfortable, supported and genuinely cared for,” Mr Campbell wrote.
The first-time father also highlighted the importance of having dedicated healthcare professionals working in a regional community.
He said the team’s kindness, patience and reassuring nature had made a significant difference during one of the most important moments of their lives.
Mr Campbell thanked the hospital staff for their professionalism, compassion, sense of humour and care towards his partner and newborn.
“Living in a regional community like the Whitsundays, I think it's easy to overlook just how fortunate we are to have such dedicated healthcare professionals right on our doorstep,” he wrote.
The family said the care they received had helped make the life-changing experience even more special and was something they would never forget.
Mr Campbell encouraged other families who had experienced similar care to take a moment to recognise the Proserpine Hospital team.
Meet the people who keep the Whitsundays safe as local emergency services come together for a free family field day featuring rescue boats, emergency vehicles and live demonstrations. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville
When an emergency strikes, they’re the people we call. This Saturday, Whitsunday families will have the chance to meet those frontline crews in a more relaxed setting, explore their equipment and learn about the work they do, as well as how they do it.
From watching police dogs in action to climbing aboard rescue boats, visitors can get a closer look at local emergency services, while picking up some practical safety advice.
Police dogs, fire trucks, rescue boats, live demonstrations and much more will give families a closer look at the emergency services that keep the Whitsundays safe when they come together tomorrow, Saturday 10 October, for a free community field day.
Organised by Whitsunday Police Station, the family-friendly event will bring together Queensland Police, Ambulance and Fire services, Volunteer Marine Rescue, Whitsunday Water Police and Whitsunday Regional Council’s disaster management team.
“All the frontline emergency services we'll come together and do a bit of a show and tell,” said PCYC Whitsunday Sergeant Billy Li.
“The purpose of the event is to show the community a different light of emergency services available.
Visitors will have plenty to see and do throughout the day, each service will run its own demonstrations, providing a closer look at the skills and equipment crews use when responding to emergencies.
“All the frontline emergency services will come together for a bit of show and tell, with each agency displaying what it has to offer.”
“The community will be able to ask questions of emergency personnel and learn more about each service.”
The program may even include some friendly rivalry between agencies, with games and a possible tug-of-war giving the community a chance to pick a side and cheer them on.
“We will be engaging the community to join in as well,” Sergeant Billy said.
Younger visitors can climb aboard rescue boats, explore emergency vehicles and watch police dogs in action, while speaking directly with local personnel about their equipment and roles.
Beyond the safety lessons, the games and friendly agency challenges, this outing will allow families to see the more relaxed side of those who respond when the community needs help.
Whale Beached in Sinclair Bay. Photo credit: Sue and Larry Shieffelbein
By Zach Houtenville
A stranded whale made its way back to sea after hours of care at Sinclair Bay on Sunday 4th October, with local couple Larry and Sue Shieffelbien helping wildlife officers through the lengthy rescue.
For Larry, the day began around 6am with a morning coffee at Sinclair Bay Resort. Looking out over the beach, he noticed what appeared to be a large branch washed up on the shore. But as the tide receded, a fin appeared, prompting him and his wife, Sue, to wander down for a closer look.
Up close, they realised it was a roughly four metres long whale.
“It was still blowing through his blowhole, so I kind of felt that it was still alive and healthy, just stranded,” Larry said.
The couple reported the stranding to Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service and got to work while waiting for officers to arrive.
For the next hour, Larry and Sue stayed beside the whale, shading it with an umbrella and keeping the towels covering it wet.
“They said to put towels over the whale, which is exactly what we did until they turned up,” Larry said.
The officers’ arrival marked the start of a long wait for the tide to change, with the team sheltering the whale beneath a gazebo and continuing to keep it wet throughout the day.
“They seemed to know what they were doing and just nursed it the whole remaining six or seven hours until the tide was coming back in,” Larry said.
Even then, the whale’s path to freedom was far from straightforward.
The relief of seeing the whale swim again was short-lived, with Larry recalling how the animal turned back towards shore and became stranded again further along the bay.
Officers Tim and Ben kept working to guide it beyond the sandbar, until it finally reached deeper water and swam out to sea at around 3pm.
‘It was a good feeling to see it go and to have helped save an animal, save a life,” Larry said.
“Tim and Ben, the two main guys from the wildlife people, they were awesome,” Larry said.
BMA CQ Rescue receiving the charity cheque from Mayor Ry Collins. Photo supplied: Whitsunday Regional Council
A record $44,000 has been raised for BMA CQ Rescue following the 2026 Whitsunday Mayor’s Charity Ball, delivering a significant boost to the region’s vital aeromedical rescue service.
The ‘Whispers of the West’ themed event takes Council’s total contribution to BMA CQ Rescue to an impressive $350,000 since 2016.
Sponsors, businesses and community members were thanked at a special ceremony this week, where BMA CQ Rescue was officially presented with the $44,000 cheque.
Nabin has been cooking up a storm at Hog’s Breath since 2023. Photo credit: Whitsunday Life
Hog’s Breath Café has been a staple of the Airlie Beach dining scene for 37 years.
As the business continues to grow and evolve, so does the team, with new chefs bringing culinary skills from across the world to the iconic Airlie Kitchen.
One such chef is Nabin.
Nabin has been cooking in Hog’s Breath’s flagship restaurant since January 2023, arriving in Australia from his home country, Nepal.
Back home in Nepal, Nabin honed his skills across various cuisines. He began his career in a continental kitchen, cooking western and Mexican food alongside Nepalese dishes.
His favourite taste of Nepalese cooking would be the momos- traditional steamed or fried dumplings filled with minced meat or vegetables.
Now, three years has passed since Nabin’s move down under and he has integrated himself into life here in Airlie Beach.
Just last week, Nabin’s wife joined him here, meaning now, it truly feels like home.
Nabin’s wife cooks too, but- at least according to Nabin - he’s the best chef in the household.
Nabin’s favourite part of working at Hogs Breath is the team, who have a lot of fun working together and truly believe in the food they present.
When it comes to the Hog’s Breath menu, Nabin’s recommendations are hearty classics cooked with finesse – starting with the prime rib.
The prime rib is cooked for 18-hours in Hog’s Breath’s unique slow-cooking ovens because – as the team believes - greatness takes time. The meat is selected for its superior quality by trusted supplier Teys, which has been in partnership with Hog’s Breath since the first restaurant’s 1989 conception.
Once the Prime rib is ordered, it’s hand cut, seasoned and flame grilled to seal in maximum flavour. Then, it’s cooked to taste- though it’s recommended as best served medium-rare.
The prime rib is served with a choice of two sides, like the café’s iconic curly fries or creamy mac and cheese.
Nabin’s second recommendation is the Chicken Parmigiana - Crumbed chicken breast topped with Italian-style tomato sauce & a duo of melted cheeses. A classic done well!
As for the best time to visit, Nabin highlighted the live music that accompanies meals on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, as well as the Salsa dancing that takes over the restaurant floor on Thursday evenings.
Meet Cassie, the dynamic force behind property management at Taylors Property Specialists. Born and raised in the Whitsundays, Cassie brings a blend of local insight and worldly experience to the table. Having jet-setted across the globe several times, she’s returned home with a wealth of knowledge and a passion for creating seamless property experiences.
As a devoted mum, Cassie knows the value of family and time well-spent. When she's not orchestrating the perfect property match, you can find her soaking up precious moments with her loved ones.
With a knack for problem-solving and a keen eye for detail, Cassie thrives in the bustling world of property management. She's not just about transactions; she's about building relationships. By prioritising open communication and fostering trust, she ensures both owners and tenants feel heard and valued.
At Taylors Property Specialists, Cassie is more than just a manager; she's a catalyst for happiness. Whether it's finding the ideal tenant or swiftly addressing maintenance needs, she's dedicated to making every interaction positive and productive.
With her winning blend of professionalism and warmth, you'll soon discover why clients trust her to make their property dreams a reality.
Steve and Lynne Rix receiving James Strickland’s painting of themselves Photo credit: Zach Houtenville
Creative Connections Community Gallery recently brought art lovers together for an evening celebrating local creativity, which allowed revellers to take home their very own piece of original art.
The $100 Art Night featured an inspiring collection of original works donated by local artists, with guests able to browse, meet the creatives behind the pieces, enjoy drinks and nibbles, and perhaps find the perfect new addition for their home.
With every artwork priced at just $100 and 100 per cent of sales going towards supporting the gallery, the evening forged new creative connections, whilst supporting the relatively new and already beloved Proserpine gallery space.
Four-year-old Poppy is hoping to find a loving forever home through Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue.
A gentle and affectionate girl, Poppy is happiest curled up for a cuddle or enjoying a walk along the beach. She is comfortable around children of all ages, gets along well with other dogs and is curious but non-aggressive around cats.
Poppy has a calm nature and tends to hang back when other animals are around, but she is always happy to join in when playtime begins. She would suit a home where someone is around a little more and can give her plenty of affection and attention.
Poppy is desexed, vaccinated and flea and tick treated, with her microchip status currently being confirmed. She weighs approximately 35–40kg and has not yet been tested around livestock.
Those interested in giving Poppy a forever home can email Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue at bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com to enquire about the adoption process.
Families are being invited to get up close with the region’s native wildlife while supporting the volunteers who work to protect it at the Fauna Rescue Whitsundays Family Fun Day.
The free community event will be held at Coral Sea Marina on Shingley Beach Road, Airlie Beach, from 12pm to 6pm on Saturday 3rd October.
The afternoon will feature something for all ages, with market stalls, street food, live entertainment and kids’ activities planned throughout the day. Young visitors can get involved with kids’ craft stations, face painting, competitionsand a scavenger hunt, offering plenty to keep little wildlife lovers entertained while families explore the event.
The event is being hosted by Fauna Rescue Whitsundays, a local volunteer organisation dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating and releasing sick, injured and orphaned native wildlife. Founded in 2001, the organisation works alongside vets, Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, Council and other wildlife and environmental groups, while also providing education to local schools and community organisations. Behind the scenes, much of that work relies on volunteers.
Fauna Rescue operates a 24-hour wildlife emergency hotline, connecting members of the public with trained volunteers who can provide advice, coordinate rescues and arrange transport for animals requiring care.
The organisation's most recent annual reporting highlights just how busy that service can be, with the hotline receiving between 80 and 150 calls each month, or up to around 1,500 calls a year. In the 2023–24 reporting period, the organisation recorded 1,172 hotline calls, with 621 from the Whitsundays, 403 from Mackay, 25 from Isaac and two from outside its service area. Birds accounted for 827 of those calls.
That community reliance on the rescue network is one reason events such as the Family Fun Day are important, providing an opportunity for locals to learn more about native wildlife while supporting the volunteers behind the rescues. Fauna Rescue also encourages community members to become involved, with opportunities ranging from rescue and animal care to hotline operation and other volunteer roles. Training and support are provided for volunteers.
For families heading along on 3rd October, however, the focus will be on enjoying an afternoon together, with plenty of entertainment, food and activities celebrating the wildlife that makes the Whitsundays home.
If you spot an animal who needs help, contact the Fauna Rescue hotline via 4947 3389.
BMA CQ Rescue receiving the charity cheque from Mayor Ry Collins. Photo supplied: Whitsunday Regional Council
A night of fun and generosity has delivered an impactful result for the Whitsundays, with the 2026 Mayor’s Charity Ball raising an impressive $44,000 for BMA CQ Rescue.
Mayor Ry Collins officially handed over the cheque this week, a culmination of support from the local sponsors, businesses, donors and community members who rallied behind the annual event.
“When something goes seriously wrong, having your service available to our community makes an enormous difference to people when they are at their most vulnerable,” Mayor Collins said.
“It was a great night for the community, but this is ultimately about supporting a service that is there for us when we need it most.
The Whispers of the West themed evening raised an outstanding $44,000, bringing the council’s total amount raised for BMA CQ Rescue since 2016 to $350,000. For the 24/7 community funded aeromedical and rescue services based in Mackay, this money goes a long way to keep the blades chopping.
“We're really grateful for the money that they've raised, it's amazing support in a lovely area and from lovely people,” said BMA CQ Rescue General Manager Lisa Krowley.
“Our operational cost per year is $17.5 million and covers a lot of ground, so the support from the communities and the regions is second to none.”
Mayor Collins took the opportunity to thank the sponsors of the event for helping make the evening, and donation, possible.
“A huge thank you to our sponsors, to everyone who donated and bought a ticket, and to everyone who helped make the ball happen,” Mayor Collins said.
“We had another fantastic ball this year. The support from our local sponsors, businesses and everyone who came along was tremendously important.”
Council is already looking ahead to the 2027 Mayor’s Charity Ball, with sponsorship opportunities now open for businesses interested in helping make next year’s event another memorable night for the community.
H Hamilton Island is celebrating two MICHELIN Key hotels, with qualia receiving the prized global accolade for a second consecutive year and The Sundays receiving its first following its opening in 2025.
Hamilton Island now has two MICHELIN Key hotels: the internationally acclaimed, adults-only qualia and The Sundays, the island’s newest boutique hotel, created with families in mind.
The MICHELIN Key is the hotel distinction of the MICHELIN Guide, recognising outstanding hotels around the world. Hotels are independently assessed across criteria including design, service, character, valueand their connection to place.
The 2026 Global Selection added 470 new hotels across 79 destinations worldwide, with 92 Key hotels recognised across Oceania, spanning Australia, New Zealand, Fiji and French Polynesia. Two of those are on Hamilton Island.
For qualia, the MICHELIN recognition follows a year that also saw the adults-only luxury retreat receive Condé Nast Traveler’s inaugural Triple Crown, recognising hotels that have appeared across its Hot List, Gold List and Readers’ Choice Awards since their inception.
Since opening in 2007, qualia has continued to evolve through considered refinement. Recent additions include Executive Chef Joshua Hingston’s Pebble Beach Collection and a collaboration with Fluidformfounder Kirsten King, alongside unique access to Whitehaven Beach, Heart Island and the waters surrounding Heart Reef.
“Retaining our MICHELIN Key for a second year means a great deal to the team,” said General Manager of qualia Rebecca Hamey.
“What has always defined qualia is exceptional privacy, intuitive personalised service and a deep connection to the beauty of the Whitsundays. Our guests come here for a complete escape; whether that’s through our dining and wellness experiences, a private day exploring the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, or simply enjoying the stillness of qualia itself. We’re incredibly proud to have that recognised again by MICHELIN.”
The Sundays’ first MICHELIN Key marks another milestone for the 59-room boutique hotel since opening on Catseye Beach in 2025. It follows its inclusion in Travel + Leisure’s It List 2026 and recognition as Gourmet Traveller’s Resort of the Year 2026, while Catseye Pool Club, its restaurant by Josh and Julie Niland, received its first Australian Good Food Guide Chef Hat in 2026.
“Receiving our first MICHELIN Key so soon after opening is a very proud moment for our team,” said Raza Syed, General Manager, The Sundays.
“The Sundays was created as a place for families to relax, reconnect and enjoy time together. From days by the waters-edge pool and beach to long, shared meals at Catseye Pool Club, there’s an easy rhythm to a stay here that is all about being together. To have that recognised by MICHELIN, alongside qualia here on Hamilton Island, makes us incredibly proud.”
The recognition comes amid a wider evolution of Hamilton Island’s accommodation, dining and experiences, and a year of accolades for Australia’s Tropical Island.
Judy Porter. Photo supplied
We talk a lot about communication in the workplace, but when a conversation might upset someone, expose a problem, or produce an outcome we can't control, for many - their communication skills tend to disappear.
Currently, I’m seeing avoidance of feedback, ignoring team tensions, and performance discussions so watered down that nobody actually understands there is a performance problem. Your team-members are not mind-readers, and honestly, most of them are too busy to pick up on your ‘hints’. Not having authentic discussions is a ‘you’ problem, not a ‘them’ problem.
The uncomfortable truth is difficult conversations trigger our human instincts. We are hardwired to be social, and potential loss of relationships, status, or belonging can feel like a threat. Our fight, flight or freeze response doesn't exactly make rational conversation easier, because the more we stress, the lower our IQ becomes.
Stepping into difficult discussions becomes easier when we prepare for them. Here’s my go-to list:
Avoiding a difficult conversation doesn't ever make the problem disappear, it simply gives you short-term relief while it gets quietly packed into the team-members ‘backpack of resentment’, to be lugged around until eventually creating a much bigger problem later.
Honest, authentic conversations combine curiosity, effective listening, accountability, understanding perspectives, managing emotions, and finding mutual purpose. Start with authenticity and good intent: “I might not have this right, but something doesn't feel right, and I think we need to talk about it.”
Every time I’m in Bowen at the moment, I seem to notice something else happening.
A new home going up, another project getting underway, work happening on a community facility or a local business investing in something new.
It’s great to see, because when you put all those individual projects together, there’s a real sense of momentum building across Bowen.
And importantly, it’s not being driven by one big project. We’re seeing activity across housing, health, industry, community infrastructure and our public spaces.
Housing is a big part of the story.
New homes are being built, medium-density housing is progressing on King Street and approved development is starting to move at Whitsunday Paradise.
Council’s $30 million Bowen South sewer project is also expected to start in coming months, providing the essential infrastructure needed to unlock around 360 new homes by 2028 and potentially more than 2,000 over the next decade.
Elsewhere, construction is underway on the $16 million expansion of Maroona Gardens, while new GP and pharmacy facilities have recently opened in George Street.
We’re also seeing investment in Bowen’s industrial areas, restoration work underway at the historic Bowen Courthouse and continued improvements to community facilities and public spaces.
At Horseshoe Bay there are new amenities, we’re improving facilities along the foreshore and at the Bowen Pool, and more improvements are coming at Mullers Lagoon.
Then there are the opportunities ahead.
Planning and approvals are progressing towards construction of the new Bowen Jetty, while master planning at Queens Beach and Bowen Harbour is looking at how we can make more of these important waterfront areas.
The Abbot Point State Development Area also has enormous potential to attract new industries and jobs to Bowen over the longer term.
There is still plenty to do and plenty we need to keep advocating for.
But Bowen has strong foundations and people willing to invest in its future.
That matters not only for Bowen, but for our whole Whitsunday Region.
Strong towns make a strong region, and whether it’s Bowen, Collinsville, Proserpine or our coastal communities, our job is to keep building on the strengths of each community.
Right now, Bowen has some genuine momentum and it’s exciting to see what comes next.
Photo source: Shutterstock
The gold sitting in your jewellery box or tucked away in a drawer may be worth considerably more than you realise.
At Airlie Beach Gold Buyers, the team regularly sees customers bring in old jewellery, coins and unwanted gold without knowing its current value. Some pieces might appear to be little more than sentimental keepsakes or forgotten odds and ends can have significant value based on their gold content.
Owner Jesse Robinson said that this is the beauty of the business.
“It's the feeling. When you see an old lady come in and expect $200 for a gold and you say ‘Oh, its really worth $10,000 plus!’
“Because we go off live prices, there's no ripping anyone off. They can do their maths before they come.
“I've had ladies go to throw out coins, and it turns out, that coin there's worth $1,500. They’re like: ‘Oh, we thought it was junk. We didn't know what gold's worth these days.'”
Others come in knowing exactly what the market is doing- but everyone gets a fair and
honest price.
Airlie Beach Gold Buyers uses live market pricing, with gold and silver weighed and tested in front of customers before a valuation is provided.
Customers can check the price, ask questions and decide for themselves whether they want to sell, with no obligation.
Jesse suggested that now’s the time to get your valuation, with the price of gold having
almost tripled in the last five years. And the next big thing? Silver.
As an investment, Airlie Beach Gold Buyers say that gold and silver is just as good as buying a house, if not better.
“You can't fake gold,” Jesse said.
“You can't print gold.”
From footy fields and swimming pools to community events, schools, arts projects and local businesses, more than $300,000 generated through Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine has been invested back into the Whitsundays community over the past seven years.
That is the difference a local bank can make.
Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine was created because local residents wanted banking that could deliver more for the community they called home. The journey began in 2009, when locals raised $800,000 to establish the Community Bank.
Today, that same community spirit remains at the heart of the business, with a percentage of the branch’s profits returned to the community through sponsorships, grants and community initiatives.
Chair Mark Henry said it was the branch’s “profit-with-purpose” model that made the Community Bank different.
“Our success is based on our profit-with-purpose model, which sees a percentage of profits invested back into the community,” Mark said.
“We see every day how local organisations contribute to the strength of our community, and we’re proud to be able to support the people who are making a difference.”
Over the past year, the branch has provided financial support to a wide range of Whitsunday organisations, from grassroots sporting clubs and local schools to arts and culture, community wellbeing, environmental initiatives and local business.
Alongside this funding, the branch’s Community BBQ Trailer gives local clubs and community groups access to practical equipment for their own events, including BBQs, gas bottles, cooking utensils, marquees, tables, chairs and a portable PA system.
Branch Manager Amanda Anderson said community impact starts with the customers who choose to bank locally.
“We’re here to have conversations with our customers, understand what they’re trying to achieve and help them find the right solution,” Amanda said.
The Cannonvale branch provides full banking services, including home loans, personal banking, insurance, business and commercial lending, equipment finance, merchant facilities and wealth services.
Senior Business Relationship Manager Luke Sheppard also works with local businesses across their banking and finance needs.
It is local banking creating local impact, helping keep more of the benefits of banking right here in the Whitsundays.
Community sponsorship applications are currently open. Contact secretary@whitsundaycel.com.au to find out more.
Your town. Your bank. Everything you need.
Visit Amanda and the team at Whitsunday Plaza, Cannonvale
(07) 4948 3599 | cannonvale&proserpinemailbox@bendigoadelaide.com.au
Local emergency services personnel, councillors and community members came together at St Martin’s Church in Cannonvale on National Police Remembrance Day. Photo supplied
Local Queensland Police Service personnel came together with council and community members at St Martin’s Church in Cannonvale on National Police Remembrance Day to honour the courage, service and sacrifice of officers who lost their lives in the line of duty.
Representatives from the fire and ambulance services and Airlie Beach PCYC were also in attendance.
“The 13 names read during today’s service were a sobering reminder of the people behind the uniform - those who have served, those we have lost, and the families and colleagues who carry their memory forward,” shared Mayor RyCollins.
“To every police officer who puts on the uniform each day: thank you for your courage, professionalism and commitment to keeping our communities safe.
“Your service often comes with sacrifices the rest of us don’t see, and it should never be taken for granted.
“Today, we remember those who served and did not return, and we stand alongside the wider policing family.”
The event echoed other services taking place across the country.
“Every day, police put on their uniform knowing they may be called upon to face situations that most people never will. They do so with courage and an unwavering commitment to keeping Queenslanders safe,” said QPS Acting Commissioner Brett Pointing Acting Commissioner Pointing.
“Today, we not only remember those we have passed, but we also stand with the families who continue to carry that loss.
“Their names are etched into our history, but more importantly, they remain part of the Queensland police family. We remember them today, tomorrow and always.”
The newly sealed Waterson Way Car Park is now open. Photo supplied: Whitsunday Regional Council
Parking in Airlie Beach just got a whole lot easier thanks to an additional 300 free carparking spaces designed to encourage visitors and locals to head into town without worrying about the added expense of parking fees
This is good news for locals, workers, visitors and business owners as the newly surfaced Waterson Way Car Park now open and offering free parking spaces conveniently located close to the heart of Airlie Beach.
Council says the majority of the line marking is complete and the motorists can now start using these spaces.
The new car park also includes six accessible parking spaces and several motorcycle bays to cater for a range of users.
“There are still a few finishing touches to come, including lighting, signage and some wheel stops, with the final area to bring more than 300 free spaces once complete,” said a Council spokesperson.
“Motorists are required to follow all instructional signage and take care while the remaining works are completed.”
Free extended-stay parking
More than 300 spaces when complete
Easy walk into the heart of Airlie Beach
%20(1)-p-1080.jpg)
Ben De Luka has been the face of Bowen Summergarden Cinemas for also 75 years and turned 90 last month. Photo credit: Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper
Bowen’s longest serving entrepreneur Ben De Luka turned 90 this September, and the much-loved local personality says keeping busy at the Bowen Summergarden Cinema is one of the main reasons for his longevity.
“I love my customers, I think they’re God’s gift to any donkey like me!” shared Ben.
“They’re always grateful to see me still standing up and see the place still going...
“All my friends of yesteryear, they’re all gone because they retired too early!”
Known for his charm, quick wit and kindness, Ben can still be found welcoming customers at Summergarden Cinemas in Bowen most days.
Beginning as a trainee projectionist 74 years ago, Ben has been part of the iconic cinema since the age of 16.
Within 10 years, he purchased the business and has operated it successfully for almost 65 years.
Over this time he has seen significant change.
“It used to be dirt floor down the sides and bitumen in the middle,” he recalls.
“Everyday we used to hose the dirt lightly so it couldn’t make a dust storm!
“It was an open air cinema when I first started and there was a section out the back with an army supply of tarps – customers could run back there when it rained and get cover under a tarp.
“It was a circus!”
When Ben purchased the business, he saved money to eventually complete a full roof, something the previous owners had started.
The cinema was a popular place for viewing movies but also live entertainment. One of Ben’s favourite memories was hosting Slim Dusty shows, something he did for 38 years.
“By the end we were good friends,” said Ben.
Another significant moment was the filming of Australia in 2008.
Ben met Nicole Kidman, Hugh Jackman and the rest of the cast, forming long-lasting friendships with many.
Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy, said Summergarden Theatre was a great tourist attraction.
“Many of our visitors go to the theatre, not just for the movies but to check out the memorabilia and to admire the old building,” she explained.
“Ben is always very welcoming whenever we recommend our visitors go to the theatre.
“We all wish Ben a very happy 90th birthday – what a fantastic milestone.”
After welcoming in his 90th year on the 18th September with a surprise birthday party organised by his wife Phyl, Ben says he is looking forward to many more years to come.
And, when asked if he will retire soon, Ben says “no way!”
The Proserpine Art Exhibition of Established and Emerging Artists 2026 was celebrated as a resounding success over the weekend, attracting more than 50 attendees and showcasing the remarkable talent of both experienced and up-and-coming artists from the region.
The exhibition, coordinated by long-time art educator Dawn Pearce, highlights the importance of nurturing the next generation of creative talent. With 35 years of experience as an art teacher, Mrs Pearce has dedicated many years to supporting emerging artists through exhibitions and community programs.
"These young artists are the future of our creative industries," Mrs Pearce said. "They will become the graphic designers, illustrators and professional artists of tomorrow, and they are the ones who will help keep our galleries thriving for years to come."
The exhibition provides a valuable platform for developing artists to display their work alongside established practitioners, giving visitors the opportunity to recognise and encourage artists at the beginning of their creative journeys.
Mrs Pearce believes art competitions and exhibitions should continue to create dedicated opportunities for emerging artists, helping the public appreciate both their talent and potential.
Guests enjoyed an evening of art, community connection, and celebration, with the diverse range of artworks receiving enthusiastic support from attendees.
The exhibition will remain on display at the Proserpine Museum until the end of October, with a selection of artworks available for purchase.
The organisers extended their sincere thanks to the Proserpine Museum for its ongoing support and assistance in hosting the event, helping to create a welcoming space for local artists to share their work with the community.
More than 50 volunteers removed 1,574 kilograms of marine debris from remote beaches and bays along 9 kilometers of the Cape Upstart coastline earlier this month.
Much of the debris is believed to have been associated with the North and Far North Tropical Low event earlier in 2025.
Volunteers were joined by Juru Enterprises Limited (JEL), the Juru owned business and the Eco Barge Clean Seas team over four days of hands-on marine debris removal.
“This clean-up was about much more than removing debris. It brought people together to care for a coastline and the marine life that depends on it. Every item removed was one less threat in the ocean, and every person involved helped show what a community of care can achieve.” Libby Edge, Founder, Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc.
Teams worked across identified debris hotspots, while protecting sensitive habitats and respecting cultural protocols. Marine debris within designated transects was collected, sorted, counted and processed to capture and report on key insights to help build understanding of marine debris sources and storm impacts.
The clean-up also provided a clearer picture of the debris affecting the Cape Upstart coastline. Across the four days, teams collected debris from designated transects to be further analysed, with the most common debris types –plastic fragments, bottles and oil drums among the most frequently recorded.
The Cape Upstart Marine Debris Removal Project forms part of the Environmental Cleanup and Local Conservation Program and is jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland governments under the Disaster Recovery funding Arrangements.
Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins and CEO of Tourism Whitsundays, Tim Booth. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville
Local tourism operators are expressing concern toward troubling times ahead, with the federal government’s new visa restrictions set to shrink the backpacker workforce that drives seasonal operations.
The Federal Government’s proposed cuts to Working Holiday Visas have raised concerns across two of the Whitsundays’ biggest industries. Bowen farmers warned that fewer backpackers could leave crops unpicked, and now tourism leaders in Airlie Beach have added that the same cuts could leave local businesses scrambling to find workers that aren’t there.
At Airlie Beach’s Heart of the Great Barrier Reef sign, Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth and Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins spoke about what the proposed changes could mean for a region that relies heavily on tourism.
“We can't have Airlie Beach named Australia's top tourism town in the small category and then have the knees cut out from us by federal policy,” Tim said.
The proposed changes form part of the Federal Government’s effort to reduce migration, a topic that has been of hot debate by all three parties that Mayor Ry Collins believes the working holiday visas should be separated from.
“Obviously the federal government is really coming in with broad brushstrokes to try and address the publicly perceived issue around net overseas migration (NOM),” said Mayor Collins.
“Some of the dialogue I heard last week in Canberra was actually taking that working holiday maker class completely out of the NOM calculation.
“I think that's a fair and reasonable way that they can make the numbers look as good as they want but it won't affect the actual number of workers that are here to support our industries.”
The new restrictions look to cut the second-year extension on Working Holiday Visas from 57,000 to 45,000 slots, and 3rd year extension from 31,000 to just 5,000. According to Tourism Whitsundays, the Whitsundays hosts about 3,500 backpacker workers at any given time of the year.
“I think for regions like the Whitsunday’s unemployment rate is lower than the national average by 0.9%, so at a 3.5% unemployment rate, we just don't have the workforce there that can pick up these roles that the working holidaymaker delivers for our communities,” Tim said.
According to figures released by Tourism Whitsundays, in the year ending March 2026, domestic visitors spent $959.1 million in the region and international visitors spent a further $271.8 million. This spending was made possible by the abundance ofworkers delivering those experiences.
“[Working holidaymakers] do a terrific job already in delivering world-class experiences, particularly here in the Whitsundays,” said Mayor Collins.
“We do see working holidaymakers really take up that mantle, particularly in areas like customer service roles, hospitality roles, housekeeping roles...
“What we're asking for is that we can stay strong as an entire tourism industry.”
Having just returned from Canberra, the pair said raising regional and statewide voices is crucial to persuading the Federal Government to reconsider how the proposed restrictions would apply.
“And then at a federal level, obviously through our federal member Andrew Wilcox, but we've also engaged with the members of the Labor Party around that as well.
“But unfortunately it's starting to feel like a number of issues that we're campaigning on…along with things like disaster recovery funding arrangements which was one we linked into last week.”
Meet Cassie, the dynamic force behind property management at Taylors Property Specialists. Born and raised in the Whitsundays, Cassie brings a blend of local insight and worldly experience to the table. Having jet-setted across the globe several times, she’s returned home with a wealth of knowledge and a passion for creating seamless property experiences.
As a devoted mum, Cassie knows the value of family and time well-spent. When she's not orchestrating the perfect property match, you can find her soaking up precious moments with her loved ones.
With a knack for problem-solving and a keen eye for detail, Cassie thrives in the bustling world of property management. She's not just about transactions; she's about building relationships. By prioritising open communication and fostering trust, she ensures both owners and tenants feel heard and valued.
At Taylors Property Specialists, Cassie is more than just a manager; she's a catalyst for happiness. Whether it's finding the ideal tenant or swiftly addressing maintenance needs, she's dedicated to making every interaction positive and productive.
With her winning blend of professionalism and warmth, you'll soon discover why clients trust her to make their property dreams a reality.
With a wealth of experience spanning many years, Ali is known for her unwavering commitment and exceptional service and always goes above and beyond to ensure a positive outcome.
Ali’s strength lies in her ability to cultivate lasting relationships with clients and tenants alike. Whether you’re a property owner seeking management solutions, a business looking to lease space or you need a storage shed.
Approachable, knowledgeable and professional, Ali is dedicated to providing a personalised service to suit your needs.
Having relocated to the Whitsundays in 2000, Ali moved to the area after enjoying many happy childhood holidays spent on her grandparents’ sugar cane farm in Glen Isla.
For all your inquiries regarding the management or leasing of your commercial investment property, don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact Ali on 0461 496 380 or email commercial@taylorspropertyspecialists.com.au
Life does not always follow the plan we imagined. Relationships change, children grow, careers take unexpected turns, families adjust, and sometimes we simply reach a point where the way we have been living no longer feels right.
These transitions can be challenging, even when everything appears to be going well from the outside. We may continue working, caring for our families and meeting our responsibilities while privately feeling overwhelmed, uncertain or disconnected from the things that once mattered.
Understanding what is happening is often the first step towards finding a way forward. Rather than focusing only on a problem or diagnosis, it can be helpful to consider the whole person, their experiences, relationships, environment, strengths, values and goals.
Psychological support is not always about finding something that is “wrong”. Sometimes it is about having a safe space to pause, make sense of change, recognise patterns and develop practical strategies for managing what comes next.
Exploring the 6 Domains of life (Health, Family, Friends, Career or study or retirement, Spirit, and Finances) and setting clear goals in these areas help us achieve our goals in each area. It's like having a road map to wherever you're travelling. You get there more efficiently and faster.
Because getting through life and truly living it are not always the same thing.
Personal Transitions — turning life into living.
www.personaltransition.com.au or give Cristie 0488667264 or me 0418708214.
Giddy needs a little extra care and is looking for a long term foster carer who truly understands what makes him special.
Giddy lives with a spinal and hip condition, which means he needs careful, hands on management every single day. He can't be left to run wild in the yard, and he needs a lead for walks to protect his back and hips.
But here's the thing about Giddy: none of his issues have dimmed who he is. He is smart, affectionate and in decent overall health despite everything his body deals with.
He has a big personality too, including a bit of a habit of trying to be the boss with other dogs. Interestingly, the fix for this is a confident female dog! Every time he's tried to lord it over one, she's put him straight back in his place, and he takes it completely in his stride.
Can't foster but want to help support Giddy's care?
Donate via PayID: bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com
Local artist Jamie Strickland
By Glenda Brown, President of Creative Connections Whitsunday
AI (Artificial Intelligence) seems to have found its way into almost every part of our lives, and the art world is no exception.
For artists, AI presents some interesting possibilities – it can help develop an idea, experiment with composition, change lighting, test colours or take a rough concept in a completely different direction. But it also raises some uncomfortable questions.
If an artist uses AI to help create an image and then paints that image, is it still entirely their work? How is that different from painting from a photograph? And at what point does AI stop being a tool and start doing too much of the creative process?
There doesn't appear to be a simple answer, and even among our own Creative Connections Whitsunday (CCW) artists, opinions and approaches vary considerably.
A tool for ideas, but not necessarily for making art
CCW Vice President and artist Linda Forrester uses AI for writing and as a tool to explore and develop creative ideas. She sees value in its ability to quickly test possibilities, suggest different approaches and help visualise ideas, while recognising that it can also make it easy to rely too heavily on generated imagery.
Artist Jamie Stickland takes a slightly different view. He believes AI is inevitably going to become a large part of what we do, but there is something fundamental about creating art that he doesn't believe technology can replace.
For Jamie, some of the best parts of creating happen when things don't go according to plan.
"I create better when I'm scared or uncertain of the final outcome," he says, describing the process of learning from mistakes and discovering new directions while working.
Perhaps that's an important distinction – making art isn't simply about producing the best possible image. Often it's the mistakes, changes of direction and decisions made along the way that make the finished work interesting.
So where should artists draw the line?
Perhaps there isn't one line.
AI isn't going away, and artists will make their own decisions about whether to embrace it, avoid it, or find somewhere comfortable in between.
For now, perhaps the most important thing is that we keep talking about it, remain transparent about how it's being used, and make sure the artist doesn't disappear from the art.
Get in touch
Creative Connections Whitsunday
Glenda Brown
President
info@creativeconnectionwhitsunday.com
Creative Connections Whitsundays supports local artists through opportunities to connect, exhibit, learn, and thrive.
Looking for something creative to do with the kids these school holidays?
Creative Connections Whitsunday is hosting a School Holiday Creative Fun Day, 10am-2pm Wednesday 30 September, at the CCW Community Gallery in Proserpine.
Children and families can enjoy a colourful, hands-on day of art, games, and creative activities in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
Activities will include kids’ canvas painting, face painting, colouring and activity tables, craft, giant Jenga and giant Yahtzee, along with creative sessions led by local artists.
When: 10am-2pm Wednesday 30 September
Where: CCW Community Gallery, 192 Main Street, Proserpine
By Michael Kimpton
Val & I moved to the Whitsundays from the big smoke 10 years back for a number of reasons. Primarily, it was to enjoy the tropical lifestyle and warm weather, marine activities and a tight-knit community feel.
We were aware as we approached our twilight years we would experience challenges with our new location. Compared to larger metropolitan cities our research showed there would be a lack of resources and infrastructure with stretched medical services. Another big wake up call for us was Cyclone Debbie and the impact it created for our community.
But what struck us the most was: why was Northern Qld dealt a bad hand of cards when trying to donate blood? Val & I were regular blood donors in Victoria but moving to Airlie Beach made this virtually impossible.
Back in 1977 after a traumatic motorcycle accident I received two units of blood on the side of the road which saved my life. This is where our commitment and passion come from to do the community thing and donate blood.
Whenever possible as our time frame permits, we donate blood in Mackay- just last Monday both Val & I commuted to Mackay to give blood. We have already been contacted to advise that the blood has been delivered to a patient at the Princess Alexandra Hospital, which was wonderful news!
But it’s not possible to donate closer to home.
This month blood services in England, Canada and Australia issued a critical joint appeal as National blood reserves have dropped globally by 30%.
The key decision makers of Australian Red Cross Lifeblood have been found wanting in their management plan for Northern Queensland regional centres.
Townsville’s permanent centre only accepts plasma now which is very confusing. Plasma donating will take 45 minutes compared to normal whole blood donation time of 10 minutes.
Val & I had a formal meeting with Tim Nicholls MP and staff at the deputation Community Cabinet meeting in Mackay last November, liaison with Queensland and Federal politicians, Mayors & Councillors. We also raised the topic during our meeting with the Premier David Crisafulli MP last month in Proserpine.
Our region wants to think BIG for our future but we are all hamstrung by policies outside of our decision-making. Lachlan Jackwitz died in April this year in regional Queensland after waiting for 2 hours for blood.
It is unacceptable that our Whitsunday community of 40,000 people has lost the opportunity to conveniently donate blood and help reduce the chronic shortage of blood. A mobile blood bank operated out of Proserpine some time ago but why was it discontinued?
Visit to view Michael’s petition to bring a mobile blood bank to the Whitsundays: https://www.change.org/p/bring-a-mobile-blood-bank-to-the-whitsundays
Michael Kimpton
0417 717 818
mkmotivationalspeaker@gmail.com
Planning to retire soon?
If retirement is on your horizon in the next few years, now is the time to start preparing.
There are plenty of questions to work through. How much income will you need during the active, slowing and sedentary stages of retirement? Do you have enough super and other investments to support the lifestyle you want? Could you qualify for the Age Pension? Would moving money between super, personal investments or spouses improve your position?
Then there is another important question: what happens if investment markets fall just before or after you retire?
While you are working, you are generally a regular buyer of investments. Your employer contributions, and perhaps your own extra contributions, continue purchasing assets through your super. When markets fall, those contributions buy investments at lower prices.
Retirement changes that position completely. Once you begin drawing an income from your super and investments, you become a regular seller. If markets fall and you still need to fund monthly pension payments, you may be forced to sell investments when their values are temporarily depressed. That can make it harder for your retirement savings to recover.
We have seen several major downturns over recent decades, including the technology crash, the Global Financial Crisis and the COVID market fall. Each was different, but they all demonstrated that investment markets can fall sharply and may take time to recover.
The aim is not to predict the next downturn. Nobody can do that reliably. The aim is to have a retirement income strategy that reduces the chance of selling quality investments at the wrong time when they are undervalued.
At Eclipse Financial Services, we use our Bucket Strategy to help protect retired clients through changing investment markets. It is designed to provide money for pension payments while allowing longer-term investments time to recover after a downturn.
The key message is simple: if you are hoping to retire in the next few years, start planning now.
A well-prepared retirement strategy can give you a clearer picture of the income you may receive, how your money should be structured and how you could manage future market volatility. Do not let an unexpected downturn delay the retirement years you have worked so hard to enjoy. Plan early, understand your options and put suitable protections in place.
For a free consultation with local people who understand these and other financial matters, contact Eclipse Financial Services in Cannonvale on 4946 7359 or visit www.eclipsefp.com.au.
Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, President of BGGA, Carl Walker, BPC Director Sean Brown, and Whitsundays Mayor Ry Collins (WRC). Photo supplied
Contributed with thanks by Bowen Pipeline Company
Ministerial Infrastructure Designation approval provides greater planning certainty for proposed 182-kilometer North Queensland water pipeline
Bowen Pipeline Company welcomes approval of the Ministerial Infrastructure Designation (MID) for the Bowen Pipeline Project by the Deputy Premier, Minister for State Development,
Infrastructure and Planning and Minister for Industrial Relations, the Honourable Jarrod Bleijie MP.
The Decision Notice marks an important milestone for the project providing formal recognition for the proposed 182-kilometre water pipeline under Queensland’s infrastructure planning framework.
The Bowen Region produces 1/5th of Australia’s vegetables (over 250 million kilograms sold at the farm gate) and is Australia’s largest winter vegetable growing area supplying over 90% of some vegetables supplying Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra, Adelaide and internationally. The region has no reliable, secure water supply relying on summer rains.
The approval provides greater planning certainty following extensive technical assessment,
stakeholder engagement and consultation with government, Traditional Owners, landholders,
growers, councils, industry participants and regional stakeholders.
Bowen Pipeline Company Chairman Carl Walker said the decision represented an important step forward for the project and recognised the considerable work undertaken to reach this point.
“This is an important milestone for the Bowen Pipeline Project and for the many people who
have contributed their time, knowledge and support along the way,” Mr Walker said.
“A significant amount of work sits behind this decision, from technical studies and planning
through to engagement with landholders, growers, Traditional Owners, government, councils,
industry and communities across the region.
“There is still work ahead, but the MID gives us greater planning certainty as we continue
progressing the remaining approvals, funding pathways and development work required to
move the project forward.”
The Bowen Pipeline Project is designed to transfer water from the Burdekin River south towards Bowen providing a reliable long-term water supply to support agriculture, industry, horticulture, aquaculture, citrus, algae, green energy and communities.
Mr Walker said the significance of the project ultimately lies in what greater water security could make possible for the region. The project’s broader economic case centres on using reliable water infrastructure to enable greater agricultural production, investment and industry development across the Bowen-Burdekin corridor.
Preliminary economic analysis cited by Bowen Pipeline Company indicates the project has the potential to support around $300 million in annual economic output and approximately 1,200 full-time equivalent jobs when operational across agriculture, industryand regional services.
“For growers, businesses and communities across the region, reliable access to water is
fundamental to planning for the future. Greater water security has the potential to support
agricultural production, encourage investment and create new opportunities for the region over
the long term,” Mr Walker said.
“That is what we are working towards, and this decision takes us another important step
forward.”
Early engagement with prospective water users has demonstrated strong interest in securing
future water allocations from the Bowen Pipeline Project.
Mr Walker said the response provided further confidence in the need for the project.
“Over recent weeks we have seen strong interest from prospective water users and new market entrants, reinforcing both the demand for greater water security and the confidence people have in investing in the future of this region.
“Their participation is an important part of building the commercial foundation required to
progress the project.”
Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, Minister for Manufacturing and Minister for Regional
and Rural Development and Member for Burdekin Dale Last said reliable water supply could
unlock significant opportunities for the region.
“Where you have water, you have opportunities. It is those opportunities that are the reason I
support ensuring a reliable water supply for an area that offers so much untapped potential,” Minister Last said.
“There is 100,000 hectares of arable land in the Burdekin-Bowen-Collinsville area that could be
used for primary production if there was a reliable source of water. Whether you look at it from
a self-sufficiency or an export perspective, that is a lot of jobs that could be created and huge
financial benefit for the region.”
“The Crisafulli LNP government has set a target to boost Queensland’s primary production
output to $30 Billion by 2030. To take full advantage of Queensland’s potential when it comes
to primary production, we need to back the infrastructure the industry needs to turn potential
into reality.”
“Approving the Ministerial Infrastructure Designation is a clear sign that the project has received a positive result during public consultation. Whilst the approval does not signal the start of construction, it sends a strong message that the Crisafulli government recognises the potential benefits and has played its part in seeing the project move forward.”
Last week was a good reminder that advocacy is rarely about one meeting, one announcement or coming home with a cheque in your pocket.
More often, it is about making sure the Whitsundays is in the room, building relationships and consistently putting our region’s opportunities and challenges in front of the people who can help shape what comes next.
There was no better way to start than seeing Airlie Beach named Australia’s Top Small Tourism Town for 2026 at Parliament House in Canberra.
After six years of nominations, it was fantastic to finally bring the national title home. More importantly, it recognises the thousands of people across our tourism industry who work every day to make the Whitsundays such a memorable destination.
We also used that national platform to highlight two issues that matter enormously to tourism regions like ours.
The first is the future of the Working Holiday Maker program. International visitors are an important market in their own right but working holiday makers are also a critical part of the workforce that keeps many regional tourism and hospitality businesses operating.
The second is disaster recovery funding. Regions regularly exposed to cyclones and severe weather need funding arrangements that allow communities and critical infrastructure to recover quickly and build greater resilience for the future.
Later in Canberra, I met with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Richard Marles, joined by representatives from Gilmour Space, to discuss another very different opportunity — the role Bowen and Abbot Point could play in Australia’s future sovereign space and defence capability.
That conversation extends beyond the Bowen Orbital Spaceport itself to opportunities around advanced manufacturing, logistics, fuel, supply chains and other industries that could develop alongside it.
From Canberra it was on to Sydney, where I met with major investors and developers about opportunities across the Whitsundays, particularly in tourism, accommodation and regional development.
None of these conversations guarantees an outcome tomorrow.
But investment and government decisions are rarely made because a region waited patiently for someone to notice it.
We have an exceptional story to tell — a growing population, a strong economy, world-class tourism, emerging industries and Brisbane 2032 on the horizon.
My job is to make sure that story is heard, and that when opportunities arise, the Whitsundays is firmly part of the conversation.
Belle’s Property team. Photo supplied: Julia Evans
With a strong local presence and the support of a national brand, Belle Property Whitsundays is bringing a fresh approach to residential real estate across the region.
The locally owned agency specialises in residential sales, property management and leasing. The team combines its knowledge of the Whitsunday market with the marketing, technology and network available through Belle Property.
For the team, it is this balance between being local and having access to a national network that makes a real difference.
The team lives in the Whitsundays and understands what makes the region such a special place to live. At the same time, they have access to the broader Belle Property network, giving clients the benefit of wider exposure and professional marketing support.
“We pride ourselves on personalised service, attention to detail and achieving great results for our clients,” said Principal Stephanie McWhirter.
“We genuinely care about our clients and our community, and we want to make sure people feel supported throughout the process.”
The agency continues to see interest from a range of buyers looking to move to the Whitsundays, invest in the area or enjoy the lifestyle the region offers.
For sellers, the team believes that good presentation, effective marketing, and realistic pricing are all important when bringing a property to market. Having a team that understands the local market also helps ensure each property is positioned in a way that appeals to the right buyers.
For Stephanie and the team, one of the biggest challenges over the past 12 months has been managing the growth of the business while continuing to provide the level of service their clients expect.
As a relatively new business, building relationships and establishing a presence in the local community has also been a key focus. Growing the team, putting the right systems in place, and maintaining regular communication with clients have all played an important role.
Just as important has been creating a positive team environment.
The team’s advice to other business owners is simple: build a good team, look after your customers, and keep communicating.
“We believe communication is one of the most important parts of what we do,” Stephanie said.
“Our clients want to know what is happening, and our team needs to be on the same page. Keeping those lines of communication open makes a big difference.”
The business also sees its Chamber membership as a great opportunity to connect with other local businesses and be involved in the wider Whitsunday community.
Being able to meet other business owners, share ideas and support local initiatives is an important part of being a local business.
As a locally owned agency, Belle Property Whitsundays is proud to support other businesses in the region and play its part in the local community. For the team, it is about building genuine relationships and being part of the Whitsundays for the long term.
Proserpine Mill processed about 84,990 tonnes of cane for the week, bringing the season-to-date total to more than 1,055,136 tonnes.
Average weekly CCS came in above budget, at 15.06 units.The highest weekly CCS sample for the week was 18.26 units, from a rake of Q183 Ratoon cane in the Lethebrook productivity
district.
Now that the school holidays have started, we again ask parents and guardians to remind their children about the dangers of playing on or near the cane rail network.
Please only cross cane rail lines at designated crossings andalways look out for cane trains before proceeding. Our cane trains work around the clock, seven days a week, so remember to use your train brain.
Kids enjoying the library with their school holidays. Photo supplied: Whitsunday Regional Council
After months of listening to young people across the Whitsundays, Council has transformed its libraries with upgraded technology, flexible furniture and new activities aimed at bringing more young people through the doors.
The Your Say initiative was a youth engagement project that ran between January and June, asking young people whether the library was somewhere they wanted to spend time, what programs and technology interested them, and what they felt was missing.
Now, that time and feedback is being seen on full display, with libraries in Proserpine, Cannonvale, Bowen and Collinsville all receiving a refresh.
“We were able to purchase adaptable furniture, upgraded technology, like a switch and VR technology,” said Alicia Mulcahy, team leader at the Proserpine library.
“They certainly wanted technology, which we expected, but the main thing they were after was just a space where they could feel comfortable, relax and be themselves.”
The upgrades have also led to new programs, including a permanent Dungeons and Dragons group at Bowen Library, while Proserpine and Cannonvale are looking to follow suit if local Dungeon Masters can be found.
The consultation with young people will continue even now that the upgrades are in place, with a permanent program held at Proserpine Library every Tuesday giving participants a chance to socialise and shape future activities.
“They actually tell us what they want to do going forward,” she said.
“The young people are also putting their little shine on it as well, it’s their space.”
Sarah Beardmore. Photo supplied
With no shark nets, drumlines or government-run sighting platform across the Whitsundays, a free community-powered app is helping ocean dwellers find out what may be moving beneath the water before diving in.
Created by former professional surfer Sarah Beardmore, Dorsal allows beachgoers to view and report shark sightings in real time, with new smartwatch alerts and public drone-reporting technology set to strengthen its reach ahead of summer.
“It’s not to scare people but It’s just an additional tool, like putting on sunscreen or checking the forecast,” she said.
“In Queensland, our reports are 100 per cent community-generated, compared to New South Wales, where they already have drone programs and other programs in place that push those reports out to the public.
“So in Queensland, we’re relying completely on people going to the beach, going fishing and heading out on boats.”
Sarah spent around 12 years competing as a professional surfer, travelling the world before eventually settling in Byron Bay.
After spending much of her life in and around the ocean, Sarah understood how quickly conditions could change. When a series of shark attacks struck northern New South Wales in 2015 and 2016, she saw a clear gap in the way vital sighting information was being shared, inspiring her to create Dorsal.
“In some of these events, sharks had been seen in the area the day before and on the day of the attack, but there was no real way for people to share that information,” Sarah said.
Shark safety has returned to the national spotlight following a series of incidents across Australia, including a fatal attack at Sorrento Beach near Perth.
Sixty-three-year-old swimmer Greg O’Neill was reportedly attacked by a great white shark close to shore, with the tragedy unfolding in the clear view of onlookers.
The incident marked Western Australia’s third fatal shark attack of 2026 and followed several shark encounters around Sydney earlier in the year, as well as one fatal attack in Far North Queensland back in May.
Against that backdrop, Sarah believes fast and reliable sighting information can help people make better-informed decisions before entering the water and hopefully mitigate these incidents.
Dorsal works through a network of everyday of up to 750,000 users, allowing people to check recent shark activity before heading to the beach or submit their own sighting.
Reports from trusted and verified contributors can appear immediately, while new submissions are checked using details such as GPS location, time stamps and image-recognition technology. Users can attach a photograph or video where possible, although Sarah understands that sightings often happen too quickly to capture on camera.
Any report flagged by the system is reviewed by Sarah or another member of the team, who may contact the person who submitted it before making the information public.
Once verified, the sighting is shared through the app, helping warn swimmers, surfers, fishers and boaties within minutes.
“We try to get shark sightings and information to as many people as possible, as quickly as possible,” Sarah said.
Photo source: Shutterstock
Fresh warnings have been raised about drink spiking in Airlie Beach after a Sunshine Coast visitor was rushed to hospital with a dangerously low heart rate.
Sam Hensen and his friend Erik had flown to Townsville to pick up a newly purchased LandCruiser and on their way home, stopped into town for a bit of fun.
About 30 minutes into the night, Erik began feeling unwell and returned to their accommodation, where his condition rapidly deteriorated.
“I came back to him about an hour later, in absolute agony,” Sam said in a Tik Tok video.
“He was completely out of it and seeing the severity of the situation, I decided to call an ambulance.
Erik was assessed by paramedics, who recorded his heart rate at just 37 beats per minute.
Erik remained in hospital overnight before flying home to the Sunshine Coast, bringing the trip to an abrupt end, with Sam mentioning the effects lingered for several days with Erik still feeling mentally unsettled after returning home.
Sam later shared the experience on social media to warn others about how quickly drink spiking can take hold. The video attracted more than 250,000 reactions, with many viewers sharing similar experiences of their own.
“We don’t know when, where or who did it,” Sam said in the video.
“These horrible people don’t just spike you to commit sexual assault, they also spike you to rob you on your way home.
“A lot of blokes have the same mindset as me, and they need to know this can happen at anytime at any place to anyone.”
Erik’s ordeal echoes an account previously shared with this newspaper by an Airlie Beach resident, who believes her drink was tampered with while she was out with a group of friends.
The young woman, who chose not to be identified, remembered little between drinking at the venue and finding herself isolated in a bathroom, where her body would no longer respond as she tried to call for help.
“It wasn’t like being drunk,” she said at the time.
“My mind was present, but I couldn’t control my body.”
“I wanted to pick up my phone to call a friend, but it was like I couldn’t control my body.”
After repeatedly trying to get herself off the floor, the woman was left bruised and sore before being taken home safely by a friend.
During a later hospital visit, she described what had happened to a doctor, who told her the symptoms indicated her drink had likely been spiked.
Together, the two accounts show how suddenly suspected drink spiking can take effect and why an unexpected reaction after only a small amount of alcohol should never be dismissed.
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2026 Mackay and Whitsunday Life Pty Ltd.
