Since 2005, local services in the Whitsundays have partnered with the Whitsunday Neighborhood Centre to nominate families and individuals in need of extra support during the holiday season. The Adopt a Family initiative then creates an anonymous list of these nominees for the community to adopt.
Adopting a family simply means donating a gift card—of any value—to help brighten their Christmas. It's not about hosting individuals but offering a thoughtful contribution to those in need.
It could range from a reef trip to a $50 voucher for Woolworths, no donation is too big or small.
While the old ‘Adopt a Family’ process consisted of creating hampers, Executive Officer at the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, Rebecca Woods, mentioned how gift vouchers became the preferred option:
“For a lot of people, when they're in these circumstances, they have very little control their situations, so to actually have some control over their Christmas and how they want to celebrate can be extremely empowering for them.
“It is also very hard for someone to buy a hamper of gifts for a person or family who they don’t know very well.”
Rebecca shared that all donations are needed by December 10th to allow the nominated families ample time to prepare for Christmas, helping to ease some of the stress associated with the holiday season.
Given the ongoing cost-of-living challenges, receiving a donated gift can be especially meaningful for families in need, particularly during the financially demanding Christmas period.
"We have such a generous community," Rebecca said.
"Everyone really rallies together at Christmas to support those who are struggling."
If you’d like to help, make Christmas a little brighter for a local family, visit the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre's Facebook page for more information on how to adopt a family this holiday season.

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Adopt a family this Christmas!

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Mackay Hospital Foundation is on the look-out for Whitsunday residents wanting to volunteer their time as drivers for the Whitsunday Patient Transfer vehicle.

The service has been operational since early 2023 and has been an incredible support for Whitsunday region patients who need to travel to Mackay for appointments and treatment. Currently operating three days each week – Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, five wonderful volunteers have been driving the transfer service on these days since its inception and with an increase in volunteers, this vital service has the potential to increase to 5 days per week.

With the capability of transporting eight patients on each trip, the bus departs Cannonvale on the three dedicated days, with collection points at Proserpine and BP Bloomsbury. The patient transfer service is available to patients who have appointments booked through the public health system and require transport to Mackay to meet their medical commitments.

Volunteer Support Officer Jackie Meldrum said, “If you live in the Whitsunday region, with a current ‘C’ Class Drivers Licence, and you’re willing to donate your time, I’d love to hear from you”.

Whether we have one patient or a full vehicle of eight patients, the service has been incredibly valuable for people in the Whitsundays.

The Whitsunday Patient Transfer service is an initiative of Mackay Hospital Foundation, and if this is something that interests you, please contact Jackie Meldrum on 4885 7590 (work), 0487 760 029 (mobile) or email Jacqueline.Meldrum@health.qld.gov.au.

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The Patient Transfer Service

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We are developing a new Corporate Plan 2025–2030, our primary strategic document that sets the high-level direction, focus areas, and key projects for the next five years. The draft plan can be viewed on our Online Engagement Portal, Yoursay Whitsunday, where you can provide your feedback to shape our future across the plan’s five themes: Our Economy, Community, Environment, Infrastructure, and Our Council.
Consultation closes 18 December – don’t miss your chance to have your say!

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Originally founded as a nursery over 30 years ago, Garden Shack Whitsundays has grown into a leading garden centre, inspired by the vision of local entrepreneur, Robert Brodhurst of Narellan Pools Whitsundays and Down to Earth Whitsundays, to be able to offer a one stop shop for all your landscaping needs to bring backyard dreams to life!
Garden Shack Whitsundays is an independent business that offers various plants and products for every gardening need. In addition to their extensive selection, they provide consultations at your home to arrange the ideal plant package tailored to your space.
The knowledgeable staff at Garden Shack can assist you in choosing the perfect plants for your garden, whether it's a sun-soaked spot or a shaded retreat. With expert advice, they will help bring your garden vision to life.
Garden Shack offer a wide variety of plants, including, but not limited to tropical species, native plants, and groundcovers, all carefully selected locally to suit the unique landscape of the Whitsundays. With many homes in the region built on sloping blocks, Garden Shack specialises in plants that thrive on retaining walls, providing options that cascade and trail down.
If you're in the market for larger plants but are concerned about getting them home, Garden Shack offers a convenient home delivery service.
“We have trucks that can handle bulk deliveries, and we also provide a courtesy trailer for transporting plants and bulk yard supplies,” explained Garden Shack’s all-rounder Kat Williams.
Kat shared that their best-seller is the Dypsis cabadae, a striking blue cane palm.
Garden Shack is expanding its range to become your one-stop shop for all landscaping needs, with new offerings including a bulk supply yard, with soils, mulch, rocks and more, garden furniture, sculptures, and pavers.
In addition to gardening essentials, the shop now also covers all your pool needs, with The Pool Shop Whitsundays located right under the same roof! Also, there is even a kids nature playground and kids' veggie garden to play in while the parents explore the nursery  
For everything garden and pool, visit the Garden Shack Whitsundays today!

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Manager Maree Mullet with All-Rounders Kat Williams and Kate Harbison

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Mates helping mates is Our Whitsunday Way so last week I launched the annual Mayor’s Festive Food Appeal to assist families in need across the Whitsundays this festive season.
 
In a year marked by challenges, the appeal offers our community an opportunity to come together in the spirit of giving, ensuring no one in our region goes without a special meal this Christmas.
 
Christmas is a time for family, generosity, and compassion and the Festive Food Appeal is our way of making sure that everyone, regardless of circumstance, has the chance to celebrate and enjoy a meal together.
 
How to Get Involved in the Festive Food Appeal:
 
Donate Food – The Council encourages residents to drop off non-perishable food items from the Christmas food box shopping list at any Customer Service Centre or Library across the Whitsundays. Visit the shopping list at WRC Festive Food Appeal for suggested items.
 
Donate Money – Those who wish to contribute but have limited time can make a meaningful impact by purchasing a Festive Food Box online through the Council website.
 
Spread the Word – Help the Whitsundays community by sharing news of the Festive Food Appeal with family, friends, and neighbours. Together, we can ensure no family is left behind this holiday season.
 
All donations are needed by Monday, 9 December to give Council’s Christmas Elves time to pack and prepare the boxes for distribution.
 
I thank everyone in advance for your generous donations which embody the true spirit of our Whitsunday community. Together, we are making a meaningful difference in the lives of our neighbours, ensuring that no one is left behind this Christmas.
 
Thank you for your support and kindness.

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Employers and employees need to start planning how their businesses will operate during the end-of-year holiday season.

Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry member and employee relations expert, Mark Lipkin from Airlie Group, suggests the following to prepare:

   • Determine any shut down or changed hours now and plan your roster. Ensure you consult as early as practically feasible with your workforce on the roster ahead of time.
   • Understand the rules and processes relating to employees who continue to work during shut down or directing employees to take reasonable annual leave.
   • Get across penalty rates and requirements for working on public holidays, and entitlements if public holidays fall during shut down or requested annual leave.

Also, there are new rules about casual employment. These include changes to how casual work is defined, new pathways to permanent employment, and employee and employer responsibilities.

Mark recommends these strategies for Christmas casuals:

   • Ensure your offer of employment is consistent with the new definition of casual employee and issue the new Casual Employment Information Statement in addition to the Fair Work Information Statement.
   • Review all existing casual employees to ensure the current employment is consistent or inconsistent with the legislation, in particular review how your engagement of existing casuals looks from a "practical" perspective and ask the question whether an alternative form of employment (permanent, part- or fixed term) could work equally well.

Airlie Group is offering Chamber members a free of charge initial consultation on employee and industrial relations matters, resulting in structured general advice. Contact Mark today to learn more on mark@airliegroup.com.au

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Employee Relations Expert, Mark Lipkin from Airlie Group. Photo supplied

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Virtual Reality (VR) is set to enhance road safety in the Whitsundays through a new police initiative aimed at educating individuals about the dangers of irresponsible driving.
The VR initiative was created by Senior Constables Jaime Brooks and Tamara Cook to better engage senior students in road safety education, after struggling to maintain their interest.
Determined to find a solution, Tamara explored new ways to engage students. Inspired by virtual reality, she spent two and a half years researching how to incorporate it into their teaching.
Sergeant Stephen Smith, presenting the product at PCYC, noted that young drivers' attitudes toward road safety only change dramatically after experiencing road trauma themselves or losing someone to it.
Tamara and Jaime created the initiative to use 360 technologies to simulate a scenario where young people make poor driving decisions in social settings, showing a range of outcomes, including unpleasant and tragic ones.
Sergeant Stephen Smith, states that since using the headsets they have seen a dramatic change in attitudes:
"Everything we've observed so far influences their attitudes, expressions, body language, and the way they engage with us in the classroom."
“Suddenly they are invested in the rest of the class.
“There's no other police district in Queensland that has these.”
“To our knowledge, there's also no other police district in Australia who uses them.”
There are currently 10 headsets available in the Whitsundays, with plans to acquire 20 more soon.
While the initiative targets young people, Sergeant Stephen Smith notes it’s not limited to them, as discussions with older generations have also been successful.
“It's easy to convince people here that road safety matters, but we're working towards making that mindset constant,” added Sergeant Smith.

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Sergeant Stephen Smith with the new VR headsets. Photo Credit: Ruth Puddefoot.
Individuals testing out the headsets. Photo supplied.

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The entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well, with statistics showing over 70% of Gen Z aspiring to be entrepreneurs or at least pursuing a side hustle. While this drive towards self-made success is inspiring, it’s important to appreciate and understand the reality of what it takes to run a business. 

Our Regional Business Owners:
   • Wake Up Every Day Ready to Lead: They rise each morning determined to put their best foot forward, striving to do better, even amidst the constructive feedback, critiques from customers, and the occasional inner voice of doubt. Yet, they keep going.
   • Innovate Under Pressure: Creativity thrives when the mind is free, but the demands of financial stability often make it hard to break new ground. Despite the challenges, business owners continue to search for new opportunities and niches to serve their community.
   • Ride the Financial Rollercoaster: The peaks and valleys of revenue are part of the journey, but business owners persevere. They pay employees, cover bills, support community needs and pay themselves last, shouldering the stresses and risks for the team.
   • Juggle Work and Rest: Scheduling a rare weekend off can be a triumph. Faced with unexpected absences, staff shortages, or last-minute crises, they continue to step in, showing unmatched commitment to their businesses and those they employ.
   • Deliver Great Service with Pride: From the smallest details to the grandest offerings, they strive to do their best daily. Faced with the occasional less-than-stellar reviews, they take feedback as fuel for improvement.
   • Balance Compliance with Passion: Navigating regulations, compliance, and paperwork often overshadows the passion that started it all. Yet, they find ways to reignite their purpose, reconnecting with what drives them.
   • Build and Nurture Their Teams: They invest wholeheartedly in growing and nurturing skilled, talented teams. While the market may shift and competitors may lure talent away, they keep turning up, and keep building.
 

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Individuals continued to walk for a kinder world this week, and one such group of individuals who also did their bit to spread kindness was Bowen State High School.
On 13th November, Bowen State High School had the opportunity to show gratitude and kindness on World Kindness Day, through a walk for kindness event which included sausage sizzles, crafts and an important meeting with Mel and Megan about next year's B Kinder initiative.
Mel Turner, director and treasurer took to Facebook to thank Bowen State High School for a “wonderful day,”:
“Thank you, Bowen State High School, for walking for a kinder world today. We appreciate you being involved in our kindness initiatives. It looked like a fantastic inclusive school event.”
Billie was an extraordinary young girl from the Whitsundays, whose life was tragically cut short in a horse-riding accident.
Billie had a remarkable gift for giving—through her warm smile, thoughtfulness, acts of kindness, and her inspiring words. The Be Kinder Foundation was created in her memory to carry on her legacy, organising events to spread kindness and make the world a better place, just as Billie did.

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Megan and Mel from b kinder with Bowen State School Principal, Rob Harris. Photo supplied

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The team at BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort have many reasons to celebrate following their success at the state’s premier tourism industry gala event, the 2024 Queensland Tourism Awards, held at The Star Brisbane on Friday night.
Winning two gold awards, BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort was not only awarded top honours in the ‘Caravan and Holiday Parks’ category for the seventh time at a state level, but also received the prestigious Hall of Fame for winning the same category three years in a row.
BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort will now head to the Australian Tourism Awards in Adelaide in March 2025, where the team will also be vying for Australian Hall of Fame after winning the past two years in the same category on a national level.
BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort also scooped a second gold award for ‘Excellence in Accessible Tourism’, an honour bestowed for the team’s extensive work and offerings catering to the accessible and inclusive market.
CEO Phil Casey, who attended the event with some of his management team, reflected on the accolades and what they mean.
“Taking home gold for the third consecutive year and acknowledging us in the prestigious Hall of Fame for the ‘Caravan and Holiday Park' award, makes this award all the more special for our owners and the team. To top it off, winning gold in the ‘Excellence in Accessible Tourism’ category for the second year in a row was also such an honour, reflecting the hard work our team has done in this area,” said Mr Casey.
Aligning with 2023 and 2024 as The Year of Accessible Tourism in Queensland, the Queensland Government has supported industry in recognising the importance of accessible tourism experiences for all, regardless of their physical limitations, accessible needs or age, to better cater to visitors of all abilities and provide greater destination experiences for all holidaymakers in Queensland.
“We are extremely grateful to those in the industry who have supported us in leading the way in accessible tourism and this is something that we will continue to incorporate, using universal design in future development projects, of which there are a few already in the planning stages,” said Mr Casey.
Mr Casey also acknowledged the resort’s owners of 31 years, the McKinnon family, and their team of 85 passionate staff.
“These awards are not only a testament to the hard work of our team, but also our owners, the McKinnon family, and their dedication to our guest experience in creating a Queensland holiday destination of choice. They always support our many initiatives and continue to reinvest and develop our wonderful resort.”
“We must also say a big congratulations to all the other winners and entrants on the night, particularly our Whitsundays friends at Ocean Rafting and Pinnacles Airlie Beach who also came home with gold. Last, but most certainly not least, we extend a huge thank you to all our guests, who choose us as their holiday destination of choice. These awards are always a testament to their support,” said Phil.
The resort, which is located in Airlie Beach has easy access to the Great Barrier Reef, Whitehaven Beach, the Whitsunday Islands and a vast array of trips, water activities and truly memorable Australian holiday adventures. For more information visit www.adventurewhitsunday.com.au

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Phil Casey, Tiffany Brett, Andrea Mearns, Tanya Cran. Photo supplied
Phil Casey and Tanya Cran accepting the award

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For those who can still remember the Whitsundays in the 1960s, the name “Porter” comes to mind in any discussion about the early tourist development of the area. Most people, however, are not aware of the extent of the contribution made by the Porter family to tourism and the significant role they played in placing Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays on the map as one of Australia’s leading tourist destinations.

The Porters were not wealthy people. They were modest, hard-working and community minded. They faced many hardships but always maintained their positivity about the future of this district. They were humble about their achievements and sought no accolades.

How it all began …

George and Thelma Porter arrived in Proserpine from Auguthella in 1949 with children, Bob (8) and Helene (Lane) (5). They purchased a newsagency/jewellery business in the early 50s and lived in the residence above the business in Main Street. The children attended St Catherine’s school then went to Brisbane for their secondary education - Bob attended Nudgee College and Lane went to Lourdes Hill.

The Porters were the first travel agents in the district, becoming agents for Queensland Tourist Bureau and they also continued with TAA as part of their business. Proserpine Airport had opened in 1951 and a daily DC3 operated between Brisbane and Proserpine. Porters’ Travel drove the success of the inaugural flights into the Whitsunday region.  

Bob Porter embraces and expands the family business …

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When Bob finished school in year 10, he started working in the family business, Porters’ Travel. Then, when his uncle, Doug Robinson, went overseas for twelve months, Bob moved to Brisbane to manage his uncle’s jewellery business in Edward Street. There he became interested in gemmology and studied to achieve the appropriate qualifications in Australia and Britain and then, after two years, he went to America to obtain the equivalent American qualification which allowed him to work in that country for a few months. Bob became one of Australia’s most highly qualified gem experts at the time.
Before returning home, Bob travelled through England and Europe and returned full of enthusiasm and ideas as to how to improve the family business. By this time, his sister, Lane, was also working in the business, having joined upon leaving school.
Bob’s interest in the travel and jewellery aspects of the business resulted in its diversification such that the jewellery and travel businesses were shifted into a new shop in Deicke’s Arcade in the main street of Proserpine in 1967 and the newsagency was sold. George and Thelma had owned that business for twenty years, working long hours, seven days a week from 8am to 9pm and closing only for Christmas Day and Good Friday.

The Porter family was very involved in the port at Shute Harbour. In the late 1950s, George was part of a group of 39 interested people who walked the track through rainforest from Airlie Beach to Shute Harbour. It was a familiarisation trek to gain firsthand information for a probable road and to inspect the harbour. Cyclone Connie (1959) was the catalyst for the construction of the road to Shute Harbour; a safe harbour accessible in all weather conditions. George Porter was instrumental in establishing this road which became a reality in 1961.

It was after the construction of the road that the Porters obtained the first lease in Shute Harbour and subsequently built the first kiosk there in 1967. They organised day trips, island bookings and sold clothing and souvenirs. Some locals believed that Bob was wasting the family’s money by initiating this move. Builder, Harry Muller told Thelma, “You know, Thelma, people will never come to Shute Harbour,” but he was proven wrong. The “Australasian Post” (December 26 1985) reported, “Shute Harbour is Australia’s second busiest port, close behind Sydney.” Bob was clearly a man of foresight.

In 1968, TAA purchased the Whitsunday Airport. Small feeder planes operated from the Shute Harbour Airport and connected with larger planes in Mackay and Townsville. The Porter family were active in the management and the operation of the Whitsunday Airport in conjunction with their kiosk at Shute Harbour.
Perhaps the turning point for tourism in the Whitsundays was in 1970 when Bob spearheaded the construction of the very first tourist resort on the mainland, Whitsunday Village, where Magnums is now situated. This multi-million dollar resort was built in less than a decade and was the first do-it-yourself holiday apartment accommodation in the Queensland travel industry.  This was followed in 1982 by the construction of the Whitsunday Terraces; a five terraced building of 62 units. Bob was involved in many other projects including Wanderers Paradise Resort.
An original member of the advisory committee for the Queensland Tourist Corporation, Bob constantly met travel agents from around the world. He was instrumental in arranging the first P&O cruise ship to call at the Whitsundays and anchoring at CID Harbour and he then arranged for local tourist operators to take boat guests on day trips to the outer reef and local islands.
Bob Porter was tenacious in all matters of tourism. Thanks to his dogged persistence, Proserpine is known as the Gateway to the Whitsundays – not Mackay, as tourism organisations in that town had tried to assert.  
Bob was always up for a new challenge. He recognised that only 4% of international visitors came to the Whitsundays and set the promotional ball rolling to attract travellers from the growing American market. In a novel idea, he fitted out a 17 metre yacht, a former pearling lugger built in 1901, as a floating advertisement for all of Queensland and began voyaging down the coast to Sydney and Melbourne marketing and promoting all of our tourist resorts.
Such a busy man and yet he still had time for fun! Bob and his friend, Allan Southwood, instigated the first ever Whitsunday Fun Race in Airlie Beach which was the precursor for the boat races run in the Whitsundays today. One day, Bob and Allan were sailing in the Whitsundays on their respective vessels – Bob’s old pearling lugger called “Dahlia” and Alan’s boat called the “Torres Herald”. They decided that they would race back to Airlie Beach and the loser would give the winner a bottle of rum. And so, the Whitsunday Fun Race was born; a race which is now quite possibly one of the largest annual events in the Whitsundays and a great drawcard for the area.

As time went by, the family divested itself of its business interests in the area. Bob eventually moved to Brisbane in the mid to late 70s however he continued promoting the Whitsundays and operating his travel business.
When Bob Porter passed away in November 2007, Queensland tourism lost a man of vision and one of its most passionate Whitsunday supporters.
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The Porter Legacy …

Bob Porter and parents, George and Thelma, made a significant economic and charitable contribution to the Whitsundays. The legacy left by the Porter family is something that we all enjoy today – a world-class tourist destination that is Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays; a destination far removed from the Airlie Beach of the 50s and 60s when it was merely a collection of modest weekend “shacks”.
Since first being honoured in 2013, through Tourism Whitsundays’ annual presentation of The Bob Porter Award for Outstanding Contribution by an Individual, the man with the distinctive head of curly hair and charismatic smile continues to be acknowledged for his remarkable contribution to tourism and development in the Whitsundays.

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We all know, love and treasure Bowen’s Iconic Big Mango on the Bruce Highway, and recently the Queensland Tourism Awards recognised the fantastic fruit through awarding Bowen Tourism and Business with Bronze in the Visitor Services Category.

Celebrating their success, the Bowen Tourism and Business team have been riding a wave of excitement since receiving the prestigious title and adding this honour has been the cherry on top of an already spectacularly successful year. Just last month, the Local Tourism Organisation won Gold in the same category at the Whitsunday Tourism Awards and were inducted into the Hall of Fame after winning the category three years in a row.

Chair of Bowen Tourism and Business, Jenn Honnery said to be recognised at State level was a fantastic achievement and a result of hard work and dedication by the entire team.

“To have Bowen recognised at this level confirms that we operate one of the best Visitor Information Centres in the State,” she said.

The Bowen Visitor Information Centre attracted almost 52,000 visitors over the past financial year, equating to an estimated average of 150 people per day.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said the team was always striving to improve their services.

“We are always looking for new ideas and have just welcomed four new members to our committee - they are sure to bring fresh ideas, and we are looking forward to another exciting year ahead.”

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Mel Collins, Bowen Tourism and Business Manager Leanne Abernethy, Mayor Ry Collins, Bowen Visitor Services Co-Ordinator Glenn Womal and Bowen Tourism and Business Chair Jenn Honnery.

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Born into the tourism industry through hospitality and hotels, Elizabeth Hackett has racked up over thirty years of knowledge, as well as an unshakable passion for bettering the tourism sector, both state-wide and in her very own backyard. Her years of dedication and experience were recently acknowledged when she won the prestigious Marie Watson-Blake Award for Outstanding Contribution by an Individual at the 2024 Queensland Tourism Awards.

"It was a huge surprise for me,” Ms Hackett said.

“I feel very humble because the people that have gone before me and won this award have contributed enormously to our industry and our state…so it’s very humbling to actually receive that same recognition."

A powerhouse woman in the industry, Hackett has acquired multiple hats throughout her career, currently standing as the Executive Chair of AATG and Proponent of the Whitsunday Skyway Project Airlie Beach,  and the Chair of Judges for the Queensland Tourism Awards.  Elizabeth also sits on the Board of Tourism Whitsudays.

Among these well-respected positions, she also owned Magnums Accommodation Airlie Beach, previously known as Magnums Backpackers, which has now transitioned into a highly awarded 3.5-star unique accommodation, suitable for 18+ travellers.                    

Looking back to the beginning, and reflecting on her current achievements, Ms Hackett said she was “born into the industry,” and after spending three decades in Airlie Beach, it has shown her “what a great conduit that tourism can be.”

“Tourism can be a great conduit for doing good work in the community, whether it’s working with first nations tourism, environmental tourism, or focusing on customer service,” she shared.

“The Whitsunday Skyway Project is an infrastructure tourism initiative set to bring over $30 million annually to the region.

"This project would not have happened without our local member, Amanda Camm, and our new Premier David Crisafulli, they have an enormous amount of credit to take for this project,” she said.

The Skyway will not only drive economic growth but will also serve as a lasting legacy for the Whitsundays, which Elizabeth Hackett hopes to contribute to throughout her career.

“Our entire tourism family want to leave a legacy and make a difference,” she added.

"Certainly, in my region, but also throughout the state.

“If I can play a tiny part in ensuring that the generations - both current and future - actually get to know a little bit more about our first nations people, how we can protect our environment, and the Great Barrier Reef, then I will be very happy if that can be my contribution.”

She added, “I'm just very humble to actually have this role in tourism and it's just wonderful to be a part of this tourism family.”

Although Ms Hackett humorously notes that she has no spare time, she cherishes the moments that she does have with her adorable chihuahua, named “Little Phyllis.”

Elizabeth Hackett’s legacy in tourism is one of dedication and impact, ignited by her passion to ensure that the tourism sector continues to thrive, benefiting not just the economy, but also the people and environment that makes the Whitsundays such a dearly loved location.

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

The Whitsundays Shines Bright
And Brings Home 16 Awards

Hosted at The Star, Queens Wharf, in Brisbane on Friday, 15th November, the awards recognised the outstanding achievements of tourism operators across Queensland and reaffirmed The Whitsundays’ position at the forefront of the state's tourism industry. The Whitsundays region was well represented, with a number of local operators nominated across various categories, including accommodation, tours, transport, and unique experiences.
Tim Booth, CEO, Tourism Whitsundays commended the region’s strong representation, praising the passion, resilience, and innovation shown by local tourism operators.
“The Whitsundays remains one of the world’s most sought-after destinations, and these awards are a testament to the dedication and passion of our tourism operators. A heartfelt congratulations to each and every entrant — your hard work and commitment to excellence is what makes our region so special.
“The fact that we are seeing success despite ongoing global challenges is a credit to the resilience and innovation of our industry. We are incredibly proud of all those who make up our thriving tourism sector, and we’re excited for what lies ahead as we continue to build on our reputation as a leading tourism destination.”
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins expressed immense pride in the region’s accolades at the 2024 Queensland Tourism Awards.
“Tourism is the heartbeat of the Whitsundays, and these awards are a testament to the resilience and passion of our tourism operators.
“To ensure the Whitsundays continues to shine as a world-class destination Council has a strong focus on collaborating with Tourism Whitsundays and local tourism operators to foster a vibrant and sustainable tourism industry for our region,” he said.

2024 Whitsundays Winners Gold Awards
   • Ocean Rafting (Major Tour and Transport Operators)
   • BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort (Caravan and Holiday Parks)
   • Pinnacles, Airlie Beach (Self-Contained Accommodation)
   • BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort (Excellence in Accessible Tourism)
Silver Awards
   • Shute Harbour Marine Terminal (Tourism Retail, Hire and Services)
   • Red Cat Adventures (Major Tour and Transport Operators)
   • Iconic Whitsunday (Tour and Transport Operators)
   • Cruise Whitsundays (Unique accommodation)
   • Camp Island Lodge (Self-Contained Accommodation)
   • Airlie Beach Cruise Ship Ambassadors (Outstanding Contribution by a Volunteer or Volunteer Group)
Bronze Awards
   • Whitsunday Coast Airport (Tourism Retail, Hire and Services)
   • Bowen Visitor Information Centre (Visitor Information Services)
   • Ocean Rafting (Adventure Tourism)
   • The Boathouse Apartments (4-4.5 Star Deluxe Accommodation)
   • InterContinental Hayman Island Resort (5 Star Luxury Accommodation)
   • Eastwoods Dining (New Tourism Business)

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Iconic Whitsunday Adventures is proud to announce its recent triumph at the Queensland Tourism Awards, taking home Silver in the Tour and Transport operator category.
This prestigious recognition underscores the team’s dedication to delivering unforgettable experiences in one of Australia’s most iconic destinations.
Owners, Jeremy and Nicole Graham explained how winning this award is an incredible honour and a testament to our team’s unwavering passion and hard work.
“It’s a celebration of the effort we put into crafting unique and memorable guest experiences. For our team, it’s a validation of the care we pour into our operations daily, from hosting guests on the elegant Lady Enid to thrilling them with adventures on Viper,” Nicole explained.
Nicole stated how being recognised at a state level is both exhilarating and motivating. Affirming that their efforts not only resonate locally but also stand out amongst Queensland’s vast and diverse tourism offerings.
“This award positions us as leaders in the industry, reinforcing trust and confidence in our brand for visitors planning their Whitsunday adventures.
“It also elevates our visibility, inspiring us to reach even greater heights while continuing to support our local community and economy.”
In the coming years, Iconic’s focus is on growth and sustainability, aiming to expand their offerings, further integrate cultural storytelling into their tours, and adopt innovative practices to reduce their environmental footprint.
“Innovation is at the core of what we do,” Jeremy emphasised.
“Whether it’s through developing tours like our Viper experience which is the only tour that is able to do the Outer Great Barrier Reef and Whitehaven in one day, enhancing guest services, or investing in eco-friendly technologies, we remain dedicated to staying ahead of industry trends while showcasing the natural beauty of the Whitsundays.”
Iconic Whitsunday Adventures has a big emphasis on authentic, high-quality experiences and maintains that this is what sets them apart from the rest.
From the elegance of Lady Enid to the adrenaline-pumping adventures on Viper, Iconic offer something truly unique.
“Our team’s passion, coupled with our deep connection to the Whitsundays, ensures every guest leaves with unforgettable memories,” Nicole added.
“Stay true to your vision, focus on quality, and always prioritise your guests’ experience.”
“Collaborate with your local community, embrace sustainability, and be open to learning and adapting.
“Success is built on passion, persistence, and a willingness to innovate.”
Iconic Whitsunday Adventures is a premier tourism operator based in Airlie Beach, offering world-class experiences by land and sea. With a commitment to sustainability, and unparalleled service, the company proudly showcases the beauty and heritage of the Whitsundays.

https://iconicwhitsunday.com.au/

Nicole and Jeremy Graham with their award

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A picturesque gem nestled in the heart of the serene Great Barrier Reef, InterContinental Hayman Great Barrier Reef provides its guests with an exceptional coastal experience paired with luxurious accommodation and dining experiences.

On Friday evening, the exquisite island playground was honourably celebrated with a Queensland Tourism Award in recognition of InterContinental Hayman Great Barrier Reef’s continued commitment to excellence.

“Winning a Queensland Tourism Award, particularly in the highly competitive 5-star accommodation category, is an incredible honour” explained InterContinental Hayman Great Barrier Reef General Manager Kayte Staraj.

“Having our hard work and dedication recognised by industry peers and experts feels amazing, and the award is a testament to the level of service, quality and guest experience we strive to deliver daily.”

InterContinental Hayman Great Barrier Reef was awarded Bronze at the Queensland Tourism Awards held last week, a title believed to not only perfectly reflect the commitment and dedication of each team member, but also act as a source of motivation to continue raising the bar and enhancing the guest experience further.

“At a state level, the recognition means that our commitment to excellence is being noticed beyond our local community and that the experiences we offer resonates on a much broader scale,” added Kayte Staraj.

InterContinental Hayman Great Barrier Reef prides itself on its unique position and role as the gateway to one of the world’s greatest natural wonders, welcoming guests by helicopter or boat to their romantic sanctuary of luxury and adventure.

Collectively, the team believes this award, paired with their additional long list of commendable achievements, will further enhance their credibility and boost the resort’s reputation to attract new guests seeking high quality, and reputable luxury accommodation they can trust.

“What sets our business apart in this highly competitive industry is our 75-year history of excellence and deep-rooted commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences.

Over the decades, we've built a strong reputation for quality, trust, and personalised service, becoming a cornerstone of Queensland's tourism landscape, and our longevity reflects our ability to adapt to changing trends while maintaining the core values of hospitality that have stood the test of time.”

The resort noted the award not only captures their internal dedication and commitment, but also stands as a reflection of Queensland’s vibrant tourism industry, a sector InterContinental Hayman Great Barrier Reef is proud to continue contributing to. In looking ahead, the resort plans to implement further tourism innovations across various sectors in the interest of enhancing guest experiences through personalised services and technological advancements whilst prioritising sustainability and eco-friendly practices.

“Our business goals are to continually enhance the guest experience, maintaining our reputation as a leading 5-star accommodation provider,” Kayte Staraj said.

“Ultimately, our goal is to be recognised as a top destination in Queensland, consistently delivering exceptional and memorable experiences for every guest.”

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Ocean Rafting recently made waves at the 39th annual Queensland Tourism Awards Gala, after bringing home Gold in Major Tourism and Transport, and Bronze in Adventure Tourism. The event was hosted in Brisbane last Friday night, where individuals and businesses were recognised for their outstanding accomplishments within the state’s Tourism sector.

Kerr Claxton, operations manager and youngest member of a three-generational family- business, represented the team alongside marketing expert Nathan and office manager Jasmin.

"We're still proudly owned and operated, with three generations actively involved in the business,” said Nate.

“With 28 years of operation, we have had the pleasure of welcoming over 2.5 million visitors to explore the Whitsundays by boat or plane and showcase one of Australia's top destinations."

Jasmin added that "It was an exciting night for the Whitsundays, with many of our region's operators getting comfortable on the podium.

“The Whitsundays should be extremely proud of the unforgettable experiences they offer that showcase our backyard."

Kerr also extended a “big” thank you to all involved and said she proudly looks “forward to future operations.”

Ocean Rafting offers two exhilarating day tour adventures, the Northern Exposure and Southern Lights, featuring an adventurous ride to Whitehaven Beach, exclusive access to Hill Inlet and unique snorkelling sites. Other experiences on offer include the Fly and Raft package, 60-minute scenic flights, a range of adventure packages, charter options and the Reef Seeker environmental educational program.

For more information phone 07 4946 6848 or visit www.oceanrafting.com.au.

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Jasmin, Kerr Claxton and Nate Fleming from Ocean Rafting. Photo supplied

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Pinnacles, Airlie Beach won Gold for their self-contained accommodation at the prestigious 2024 Queensland Tourism Awards over the weekend.

The Pinnacles team were absolutely over the moon to have won an award, and Therese Moran said it was a credit to their hard work and dedication:

“The team work extremely hard to ensure that each guest visiting the Whitsundays leaves with wonderful memories and want to come back and see us time and time again.”  

The team were extremely grateful to have won gold, especially in consideration of the fierce competition:

“The calibre of all Queensland entrants is always exceptional. We are up against the best of the best in Queensland and we are very humbled to have been awarded Gold,” Therese enthused.

For what Pinnacles have achieved so far, they believe they are ‘right on track’ and will continue to excel in the areas where they are already performing exceptionally well.

Therese explained how they are always continually trying to improve their guest’s experience and “reinvent the wheel to provide exceptional customer service,” alongside updating their facilities and services offered.

Pinnacles are grateful for the awards process:

“You learn so much from the awards process about your business. It forces you to look at all aspects from customer service, business practices, sustainability and marketing.”

Congratulations Pinnacles on an exceptional win!
pinnaclesairliebeach.com.au

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Brent Jones, Therese Moran, Susan Watson, Lee Irvin with their award

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SeaLink Whitsundays’ Red Cat Adventures was proud to continue its service excellence streak being awarded Silver in the Major Tour & Transport Operator category at the 2024 Queensland Tourism Awards, hosted last Friday.
The awards, organised by the Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC), celebrated the achievements of Queensland’s top tourism operators across 31 categories, from attractions and events to accommodation and cultural tourism.
This year’s Major Tour & Transport Operators Silver award reflects Red Cat Adventures’ continued dedication to providing exceptional guest experiences through its world-class eco-tours and experiences to iconic Whitsunday destinations including the Great Barrier Reef, Whitehaven Beach and Airlie Beach.
SeaLink Whitsundays General Manager, Asher Telford said, “We are thrilled to be recognised again at this year’s Queensland Tourism Awards.
“This achievement is a testament to the continued pride, passion and commitment of our Red Cat Adventures team, who work tirelessly to ensure every guest enjoys a world-class experience.
“Awards and recognition like these are important as they give visitors to the region the confidence that when they hop onboard any one of our experiences, they know they we will do everything possible to ensure they have a brilliant time,” Mr Telford said.
“As a proud member of Queensland’s tourism industry, we congratulate all the winners and nominees who make our state such a remarkable destination to visit for all travellers to Australia and the region.”
SeaLink Whitsundays, Red Cat Adventures and Whitsundays Jetski Tours all also proudly boast Ecotourism Australia’s Advanced ECO Certification, highlighting a dedication to sustainable practices and authentic nature-based tourism experiences.
For more information on SeaLink Whitsundays’ experiences, visit:
sealink.com.au
redcatadventures.com.au
jetskitour.com.au

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Dan Gabbert, Nate Linnell, Charlotte Linnell, Julie Telford and Asher Telford. Photo supplied.

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In a spectacular evening celebrating Queensland’s tourism excellence, Whitsunday Regional Council’s Whitsunday Coast Airport and Shute Harbour Marine Terminal were proudly recognised for their outstanding contributions to the industry at the 39th annual Queensland Tourism Awards.
Held on Friday, 15 November, at The Star, Queens Wharf, the event was a showcase of the state’s best and Mayor Ry Collins hailed the Whitsundays achievements as a testament to the region’s world-class offerings and unwavering dedication to excellence.
"There are two key reasons why the Whitsundays is an iconic tourism destination: we live in paradise and the incredible commitment of our businesses to delivering exceptional experiences," Mayor Collins said.
“The Whitsundays’ presence shone brightly throughout the evening and huge congratulations to BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort, Ocean Rafting, and Pinnacles Airlie Beach for their gold awards, while several other local businesses secured silver and bronze awards.
“A special highlight was the recognition of Elizabeth Hackett, who received the opening award of the night for her immense contributions to the tourism industry.”
Mayor Collins extended his heartfelt congratulations to all the winners and finalists.
"The achievements of our region at this year’s Queensland Tourism Awards are a reflection of the passion and dedication of our tourism operators.
“Together, we continue to elevate the Whitsundays as a world-class tourism destination."
Council’s Director Commercial Businesses Craig Turner said the Whitsunday Coast Airport and Shute Harbour Marine Terminal remain pivotal gateways to this paradise, showcasing their commitment to innovation and service excellence.
"We are incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished and will continue working with our tourism partners to ensure the Whitsundays remains a leader in the industry," Turner said.
“Being recognised on a state level is a great achievement and acknowledgment for the hard work and efforts of the hard-working teams at Whitsunday Coast Airport and Shute Harbour Marine Terminal.
“I am confident the awards success and recognition of Council owned assets perfectly captures our continued dedication and commitment to keeping various facilities within the region to a high standard to maximise the experiences of visitors.
“Recognition at a state level will ensure both the Whitsunday Coast Airport and Shute Harbour areas at the forefront of traveller’s minds when visiting the Whitsundays,” Turner said.
In late October, the Whitsunday Coast Airport was awarded Gold in the Tourism Retail, Hire and Services category at the Whitsunday Tourism Awards, the third consecutive win for the establishment in a row, further earning the facility an honourable place in the Hall of Fame.
The Whitsunday Coast Airport is recognised as “the gateway funnel to drive the economy for the Whitsundays”, offering amazing connectivity with direct flights to Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Cairns and the new Adelaide route.
Council’s Manager Aviation, Tourism and Marine Shaun Cawood said the revitalised Shute Harbour Marine Terminal is also the kicking goals and this season Shute Harbour will host 25 cruise visits, up from 19 last year, with a total guest capacity of 66,834 (excluding crew).
“In addition to Celebrity and Royal Caribbean, the terminal will welcome new lines this year, including Silversea, Viking, and Norwegian. Here's to another incredible season,” he said
“To deliver exceptional facilities for visitors, we will continue working closely with our airline and cruise line partners to develop new flight routes, and increase capacity across marine visitation.”
Having the final word Mayor Collins said “the tourism industry is very competitive in our beautiful region, and we all need to work hard, and work together towards the common goal of providing the best experiences to all visitors.”

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Bowen State High School has celebrated its 30th Anniversary of Sports Awards showcasing the outstanding sporting achievements of students and staff in 2024.

Mckenna Hall was filled with excitement as students were recognised for their participation and dedication to school, regional and state sport competitions. 

To mark the 30th Anniversary, video messages of support were delivered by successful Bowen High alumni including Belinda Farley (nee Smith), Robert Crowther, Corey Jensen, Elliarna Mitchell and Hannah Moore.

Swimming, Cross Country and Athletics Age Champions received their medals and certificates whilst NQ representatives received their half blue and full blue towels.

Sturt Crocodiles were crowned the 2024 Champion House and Vice and House Captains for 2025 were also announced.

Mr Harris and Belinda Farley (first sportswomen of the Year in 1996) presented the sportsman and sportswomen awards to:

Junior: Alexis Howell and Charlie Williams 
Senior: Remi Hedges and Jacob Logan

Special Awards were awarded to: 
Terry Wake Memorial: Lincoln Thicker 
Keith Shiels Memorial: Alyssa Hardy
Paul Le Bherz Memorial: Casey Forrester
Herb Murray Cup: Staff 

Principal Rob Harris expressed his thanks to sponsors and donors that contributed throughout the year with uniforms, equipment and travel.

“We appreciate your ongoing support and thank you also to our P&C for supporting events like these to acknowledge our students,” said Principal Rob Harris.
 
“Bowen High is proud of the commitment of all students and staff who contributed to this year’s sporting calendar. 

“We look forward to another successful year of sport in 2025.”

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Collinsville State High School held a memorable Graduation Ceremony on Friday, 15 November, to bid farewell to the Year 12 students after 13 years of schooling.

During the ceremony, Mrs. Lawn delivered heartfelt farewell speeches to each of the graduates - Jayme, Claudia, Cooper, and Darcy - wishing them success in their future endeavours.

Principal Mrs Reeves then presented each student with a Certificate of Graduation, marking this significant milestone in their lives.

Families joined the graduates for a delicious morning tea, lovingly prepared by Mrs. Trickett and the Hospitality students. A special thank you was extended to Mrs. Fisher for the stunning graduation cake, which added an extra touch of celebration to the event.

The farewell concluded with a touching tradition as the Year 12 students walked out of the school gates for the final time. Drums played, and students and staff lined the path, clapping and waving to send the graduates off with well-wishes.

Congratulations to Collinsville State High School’s graduating class of 2024!

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It was a day to remember at Whitsunday Christian College as they celebrate the hard work, growth, and achievements of their students. The Primary Awards Ceremonies, held last Wednesday, were filled with excitement, joy, and pride.

Vibrant student performances showcased the talents of the younger students, filling the room with energy and enthusiasm in front of families and their peers. Beyond the performances, the ceremony honoured the academic and personal growth of the primary students.

Secondary Awards Ceremony, was held later that evening, where students were celebrated for Excellence in Effort, academics, sports, and the arts as the hard work of the students was highlighted, with each award reflecting their commitment and perseverance throughout the year.

Congratulations to all the award recipients for their remarkable achievements! Whitsunday Christian College looks forward to 2025, continuing to cultivate excellence.

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Photo credit: Ruth Puddefoot and supplied

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Proserpine State High School Year 12 students celebrated their school Formal at Shute Harbour Marina Terminal last Tuesday 12th November. Family and friends attended the glamorous event admiring students who strutted the red-carpet during arrivals. Students then headed upstairs for an evening of dinner and dancing.

The Year 12s then celebrated their Graduation Day on Friday 15th November in their school hall along with their nearest and dearest and staff. Both events were a wonderful occasion to celebrate 13 years of schooling.

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Year 12 St Catherine’s College students celebrated the end of their school journey with a series of meaningful events over the past few weeks.

With their School Formal held earlier in the year, the students had other celebrations to look forward to. These included a memorable Graduation Dinner which was held at Whisper Bar and Restaurant, and a special liturgy held in their honour on the school campus.

A school spokesperson shared the news;

“Today, surrounded by family, friends, staff, and the entire St. Catherine's student body, they attended a special liturgy and rang the bell for the final time,” they shared.

“Your dedication to your studies and the St. Catherine's community has shone through on your journey with us and we are extremely proud of all that you have achieved. Congratulations to all the graduates and enjoy your next chapter!”

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On 16 November, Airlie Beach was a buzz with Airlie Beach Bike Nights’ Annual Bike Show, attracting enthusiasts from across the sunshine state to come together in support of a fantastic cause.
Spearheaded by Hellier Mason just over four years ago, the yearly gathering was initially introduced as a social event for motorcycle riders within the community to enjoy, with regular meets held on the final Friday of each month at various venues within the area attracting up to fifty riders on occasion. With the regular meets a success, three years ago, Hellier began planning for something bigger to ignite enthusiasts’ calendars each year.
“Three years ago, I wondered if we could put on a charity bike show made up of local rider’s bikes, and I got talking to Beccah from Magnums Hotel,” explained Hellier.
“This show is the third one we’ve run, and we had 25 bikes this time around, and the quality of machines just keeps getting better and more varied, from vintage bikes to high performance sports bikes, and custom shoppers, there’s something for everyone.”
A cause close to Hellier’s heart, the annual show raises much needed funds and awareness in support of The Children’s Hospital Christmas Appeal, an initiative working to provide children with the gift of a healthier and brighter future.
“My youngest son has ongoing treatment, and it’s really just that as a parent it’s a struggle at the best of times having a kid in hospital at any time of the year, but Christmas is the hardest as it’s supposed to be a time where families come together after all.”
The 2024 Airlie Beach Bike Nights’ Annual Bike Show raised an outstanding total of $2,000 from the event alone, with an additional $13,000 having been raised over the past two months.
“Each and every member of the Airle Beach Bike Nights community has had a hand in the show in some way – whether its words of encouragement, or people volunteering their time and their labour to make it happen, and I’m certain we can make the next one biggest and better!”

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Beccah Cook from Magnums Hotel and Hellier Mason, organiser of the Airlie Beach Bike Nights’ Annual Bike Show. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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Gorgeous Timmy was saved from death row at the Burdekin Pound nearly two months ago and has since made incredible progress. When he first arrived at Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue, he was timid and fearful. But in his foster home, Timmy has blossomed, gaining confidence as he experiences daily meals, loving care, and plenty of attention.
This playful boy loves to run full speed and has a blast playing zoomies with his foster brothers. Despite his initial anxieties, Timmy has integrated well into his foster home and is now eager to give and receive love. There’s not a mean bone in his body—he’s a gentle, submissive dog with other pups.
While he hasn’t been tested with cats or chickens, Timmy is great with kids of all ages. He’ll need a home with 6ft fences, ideally with someone who’s home often, and another dog to keep him company. He also enjoys daily walks to help burn off his energy.
Timmy is looking for a loving, active family who can provide the care and attention he deserves as he continues to thrive.
Please call Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue on 0459 757 455 or send a message to their Facebook page if you would like to give Timmy the home he deserves.

Name: TimmyBreed: Greyhound X Arab

Sex: Male
Age: 20 months
Size: Medium approx. 22kg
Adoption fee: $400
Vaccinations: Fully vetted. Desexed. Microchipped and Vaccinated.
Fences: 6ft

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As we continue to immerse ourselves in festive spirit, there’s no better way to spread joy than by coming together to support and give to those in need across the Whitsundays. It should come as no surprise that the Whitsundays are one of the most kind-hearted and generous communities along the Queensland coastline, and in keeping with this wonderful title, various Christmas Appeal initiatives have begun sprouting up across the shire as we edge closer and closer to December.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor, Ry Collins’ Festive Food Appeal stands as an accessible, and affordable, way for the local community to support those who often go without by providing families with a festive meal this Christmas. A simple way to spread joy, the appeal exists with the sole intent of ensuring everyone within the community can celebrate the festive season together. Donations of non-perishable food items off the Christmas food box shopping list can be made at one of the Whitsunday Regional Council’s Customer Service Centres or Libraries.

What’s included in this Christmas box shopping list you ask?
   • Christmas Pudding
   • Bon Bons
   • Tinned fruit, jelly and custard powder
   • Juice (2L)
   • Rice and simmer sauce
   • Pancake mix
   • Tinned veggies, baked beans and tinned spaghetti 
   • Deb potatoes
   • Spaghettti pasta and pasta sauce
   • Instant noodles
   • Weetbix
   • Cordial
   • Longlife milk
   • Vegemite

Although making a small donation off the Christmas box shopping list can make a world of a difference in someone’s life, the Whitsunday Shire Council asks for the community to simply spread the word of the appeal with friends, family and neighbours to make sure no one goes without this Christmas.

In order to make sure the Council’s Christmas Elves have enough time to pack the Festive Food Boxes, all donations are to be made by Monday 9 December. More information of this heartwarming initiative can be found on the Whitsunday Shire Council website.

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Mayor Ry Collins’ Festive Food Appeal stands as an accessible and easy way to give to those in need this Christmas. Photo supplied

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Women in the community are invited to a special ‘Christmas Cocktails for a Cause’ event, due to be held at the Garden Bar from 12.30-5pm on Friday, December 6.

This ladies-only event will raise money for charity, with all proceeds supporting the fight against domestic violence.

The event includes an opportunity to meet the ‘Dancing CEOs’ a group of local leaders who will be dancing all the way to Brisbane City Hall next May for the cause.

Guests at ‘Christmas Cocktails for a Cause’ will enjoy a fabulous selection of shared platters and canapes alongside a complimentary welcome drink, complete with live music and dancing, courtesy of ‘Josiah.’

The four 'Dancing CEOs' were chosen for their altruism and commitment to community impact.
When Coral Sea Marina CEO Kate Purdie was approached in 2021 to donate a prize for the Women’s Legal Service Queensland (WLSQ) ‘Jet Raffle,’ she was moved to tears by a video about the organization’s work.
“While I’ve been fortunate enough to never experience domestic or family violence myself, I could relate to the woman in the video,” she said.

“My late husband was diagnosed with terminal cancer when I was 36 years old.”

“I know what it is like to be in a situation where you have no control over what is happening to you and your family.”
In 2024, accepting the invitation to join WLSQ's flagship fundraising ‘Dancing CEOs’ was an easy decision for Kate.
“There are things in life that simply cannot be stopped, and terminal cancer is one of them, but domestic violence is not.” Ms Purdie said.

“If, by doing this, I can help even just one mum from ever feeling the way I did, I will.”

Joining Ms Purdie in making that difference are fellow ‘Team Whitsundays’ Dancing CEOs Candice Crossley (Whitsunday Transit), Alice Harriott (Whitsunday Family Dental), Julie Telford (SeaLink Whitsundays), and their mentor, three-time former Dancing CEO and WLSQ Ambassador, Katelyn Aslett-Collins (Taste Whitsundays).

For Candice Crossley, the motivation is “giving back”.

“Particularly to women and children, with whom as a former teacher, and part of a company which transports 2,000 children to school each day, I have a deep affinity – made even more poignant by knowing that of all the women experiencing domestic violence, 75 per cent have children in their care,” she said.

For Julie Telford it’s about women helping other women.

“I share WLSQ’s core values of care, respect, inclusivity, accountability and collaboration.

“I want us to create a safer future for women and children, where everyone can live free from violence and discrimination and where a woman can tell her story without judgement or fear,” she said.

For Alice Harriott, it’s about safeguarding the next generation.

“I am a mother of four daughters, and I pray they may never need such a service, so I am dancing – and raising awareness and funds – so that one day, no-one else has to,” Dr Harriott said.

For more information and to stay up to date with all local fundraising news, follow the ‘Team Whitsundays Dancing CEOs’ Facebook page.

Tickets to the ‘Christmas Cocktails for a Cause’ cost $99 and are available online at: mygivingtable.com.

To buy Beach Raffle tickets in advance, drop into The Fat Frog, Espresso & Bloom, Taste Whitsundays or Whitsunday Family Dental. Tickets cost $5 each, three for $10, or 10 for $20.

WHAT: Christmas Cocktails for a Cause
WHEN: Friday 6th December 12.30-5pm
WHERE: Garden Bar

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Dancing CEOs Candice Crossley, Julie Telford, Katelyn Aslett-Collins and Alice Harriott invite you to  ‘Christmas Cocktails for a Cause’. Photo credit: Sharon Smallwood.

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A routine morning walk turned into a chilling and distressing experience for local resident Sonny Ivanovic on November 10th, when he discovered signs of vandalism at the Cannonvale Duckpond.
Sonny, who regularly walks his dog around the pond, immediately noticed that something was off as he entered the park. Bins were overturned, and debris was scattered across the area, an indication that the park had been disturbed. As he continued his stroll around the pond, Ivanovic realised that the two ducks—who are a familiar sight to regular park-goers—were nowhere to be found.
He walked further along the bridge, and just 10 meters ahead, he made an upsetting discovery: one of the ducks was lying dead at the side of the bridge.
Upon closer inspection, Sonny immediately sensed that something was amiss. The duck’s neck was twisted at an unnatural angle, and its head appeared to have been struck with force, and Sonny claimed he was led to believe that the poor duck had been stoned.
Sonny’s concern deepened as he connected this to the earlier signs of vandalism in the park. He suspected that the duck’s death was no accident but rather a deliberate act of cruelty.
Sonny took to Facebook, expressing his concerns about the event and asking for anyone who saw anything or knows anything to come forward:
“It's very concerning if it was a deliberate act, because this is a clear sign that this behaviour could escalate towards other behaviours, I think every adult knows that's a precursor.”
“It makes me worried for the wildlife, but makes me worry even more about what is next.”
“I'm not a massive animal person, we have two dogs that we love, I just think it's senseless violence, which could lead to much more destroyed behaviour for them, for other people and property, that's what worries me.”
The incident has gained significant attention online, with many urging the perpetrator(s) to come forward.
In the meantime, community members created tributes to the ducks by placing two duck statues and some foliage along the wall of the pond.
Sadly, it was reported on Facebook this week that the tribute had also been vandalized.
One of the ducks still remains missing, and anyone with any information is urged to come forward.

A lovely tribute from the community to the two ducks
The vandalised tribute which was sadly shared to facebook
Another tribute provided by the community

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This World Kindness Day, the B Kinder Foundation hosted a "Stand and Walk for Kindness" event at Cannonvale Beach, uniting people to celebrate the values of kindness and community spirit.

The event also served as a heartfelt tribute to 12-year-old Billie Kinder, who tragically lost her life in a horse accident in 2016, and continues to inspire others through her legacy of compassion and generosity.

There’s no better time to show kindness than on World Kindness Day.

The B Kinder Foundation gathered early on Tuesday morning at Cannonvale Beach to walk or stand for kindness, honoring Billie Kinder’s legacy.

Founded by Danny Mayson-Kinder in memory of her 12-year-old daughter Billie, who tragically passed away in 2016, B Kinder promotes kindness and combats bullying. After Billie's death, Danny discovered her daughter’s artwork and poems, which inspired a book about kindness and empathy.

The positive impact of the book led Danny to establish the B Kinder Foundation and launch the annual B Kinder Day. Today, the foundation reaches thousands, inspiring children to embrace kindness. The Walk for Kindness event is a key example of this mission in action.

The event featured sausage sizzles, fresh fruit, warm smiles, heartfelt conversations, and, of course, a leisurely walk—one that participants could make as short or long as they liked, all while coming together to celebrate kindness and community.

Director and Treasurer of the B Kinder Foundation, Melanie Turner, was overwhelmed at the amount of support on the day:

“We chose to have the event at Cannonvale Beach as it is a beautiful public space where the whole community could get involved,” she explained.

“The event wasn't for anyone in specific, we wanted everyone to come along, which is why we also made it before work hours.

“Many people showed up just through walking past and being curious, these events give opportunities for conversations.

“It also helps community members find out about what we do at the B Kinder Foundation.

Mel expressed her heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated in the Walk for Kindness and is truly grateful for the generous businesses that contributed their time and products to support the cause and stated how their contributions played a vital role in the event's success:

“Thank you to everyone who came along it is so wonderful to have such a supportive community, including the local businesses.

“Naomi at Fat Frog did free coffees for anybody walking for kindness and opened her cafe early.

“The prickly pineapple gave us free fruit and Woolworths Cannonvale provided us with the free waters, and we had the WSPN volunteers on the BBQ who donated the sausages, so we have had the full community supporting us!

“All this support helps us pass on the kindness to all the people that showed up.”

Mel said she was pleased with how the event went and explained why it is important to be kind:

“Any little thing that we do matters, and kindness matters and saves lives, and we want to pass on that kindness.”

“This foundation is Billie’s legacy, and we are walking in her shoes.”

“As a 12-year-old girl she showed us that you don't have to be famous or even an adult to make a difference in people's lives.”

“Everyone has the opportunity every day to make a difference in someone's life just by being kind.”

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Back: Isaac Veth, Matt Stokes, Rob Murphy and Brian Skead, Middle: Mia Vloedmans, Abbie Green and Savannah Lamont, Front: Mel Turner and Renee Martin.

Photo credit: Rachael Smith

Melanie Turner with Proserpine High School Girls Savannah Lamont, Mia Vloedmans and Abbie Green.

Isaac Veth, Matt Stokes, Rob Murphy, Mia Vloedmans, Melanie Turner, Abbie Green, Savannah Lamont, Brian Skead and Renee Martin. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

The whole community got involved with the "Stand and Walk for Kindness" on World Kindness Day. Photo supplied

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

This prestigious award highlights the region’s growing reputation as a premier hub for adventure tourism, offering a range of experiences set in one of the world’s most beautiful natural environments.

Tim Booth, CEO of Tourism Whitsundays is delighted The Whitsundays has been named the Best Adventure Destination at this year’s Adventure Tourism Awards.

“This award is a reflection of the incredible natural beauty and diverse outdoor experiences our region has to offer. Adventure in the Whitsundays means something different for everyone—whether it’s exploring the Great Barrier Reef, hiking through lush rainforests, or simply relaxing by a pristine beach,” said Tim Booth.

Tim Booth also expressed his thanks to the Whitsunday Regional Council and the Whitsunday Coast Airport for their ongoing support. He also noted the community and tourism operators have been instrumental in making the Whitsundays the world-class desination it is today.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the award was a great testament to our region’s unmatched natural beauty, vibrant tourism industry, and the exceptional experiences we offer to adventurers from around the world.

“It is great recognition for our Whitsundays and acknowledges the hard work and dedication of our local businesses, tour operators, and community members who consistently strive to deliver world-class adventure activities,” he said.

“Congratulations to everyone involved in making the Whitsundays a top-tier destination. Let’s continue to showcase the Whitsundays as the adventure hub it truly is!”

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The Whitsundays was named Best Adventure Destination at the 2024 Adventure Tourism Awards. Photo supplied

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Hey Everyone!

Rachael is currently in the Hinchinbrook region preparing for the launch of the new newspaper in two weeks, which is why I'm stepping in to assist with the Editor's Note in the meantime.

Having said that, you will be seeing a bit more of me over the next three months and beyond, as the ‘guest editor,’ for Whitsunday Life.

Many of you will recognize Daniel as one of the dedicated journalists working alongside me at Whitsunday Life Newspaper. However, in both exciting and sad news (I know I will miss him), Daniel will be transitioning to the Hinchinbrook paper for the time being.

While Daniel will still be around occasionally, his primary focus will now be based there, while I continue to cover the Whitsundays. I hope you will all join me in wishing him the very best of luck in this new chapter of his career, I know he will do amazingly well!

In other news, everyone in the office is getting really excited about our staff party this weekend, where we'll be going scuba diving! As a big fan of the sport with my open-water certification, and having finally gotten my moon boot off after breaking my foot, I'm especially looking forward to it. That said, I know there are a few people who are a little apprehensive (cough, Crissy).

I'm looking forward to spending some quality time with the team outside of work, doing something I love. With how fast-paced our industry is, I think it's exactly what we all need.

This week I also had the pleasure of attending the B Kinder Foundation’s ‘Walk or Stand for Kindness’ event. It was a beautiful event that brought community members together to spread kindness and uphold the legacy of the lovely Billie Kinder, which you can read more about on page 3.

Attending the event and being welcomed so warmly really made me think about how I can incorporate more kindness into my own life.

Especially in light of Movember, it's important to be kind to others, as you never know what someone is going through. Even a smile could make someone's day.

Ruth

Quote of the week:

“You’re unfailingly kind. A trait people never fail to undervalue, I'm afraid.” Albus Dumbledore, Harry Potter and The Half-Blood Prince.

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Christmas for many is a lovely time of year where families and friends gather to celebrate. For some however, Christmas can be extremely lonely.

Therefore, Tina Everett from the Whitsunday Social Craft Group is offering surprise homemade Christmas gifts to those spending Christmas alone.

Presents include something from the Whitsunday Social Craft Group, something handmade, a piece of jewellery, a t-shirt or even a personalised bauble.

This extremely kind gesture from Tina, will hopefully help to make some individuals in the community feel a little less lonely this Christmas.

Tina through her Facebook post asks people to reach out to her if they know someone in the Airlie Beach area who celebrates Christmas, is on their own on Christmas morning, or works during the day, who would appreciate a little surprise under their tree.

Send a message to Tina confirming the person's name, their gender, what type of item they might like, their favourite colour and where they work, for them to receive their special Christmas gift.

If you know someone who would be grateful to receive a very thoughtful gift from the real-life father Christmas that is Tina and the Whitsunday Social Craft Group Facebook page:

www.facebook.com/groups/whitsundaysocialcraftgroup

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Do you know someone deserving a gift this Christmas?

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As many Whitsunday residents are aware, Stinger Season is in full force, but one young boy who wasn't expecting a sting back in September, is 11-year-old Reef Brookes, whose experience has prompted action from his mother.

The school holidays had just started and the Brookes Family, like many other families on a nice day, headed down to the beach. While this was a typical activity for the water-loving family, they were not prepared for what was about to happen.

Mel Brookes, Reef’s mum said they had gone to the beach with friends, when Reef came running out of the water exclaiming that he had been bitten by what he thought was a crab.

As he rushed over to the group showing his ankle, Mel discovered it was not a crab bite, as the back of his ankle was covered in welts.

After pouring water on the wound, it started to spread, and Mel realised that it had to be serious due to the rate it was spreading.

Thinking on her feet, Mel quickly poured vinegar on it, however, the welts then morphed into one huge blister.

Alarm bells ringing, Mel called for an ambulance. In the meantime, Reef was screaming his head off in what Mel described as “excruciating pain.”

“When the ambulance arrived, they took one look at it and said it was a suspected Irukandji sting,” Mel explained.

Instantly the young boy was attached to an ECG machine to monitor his vital signs and transported to Proserpine Hospital where he was administered pain relief.

While Reef wasn't wearing a stinger suit as it was September, Mel says that she will now encourage her family to wear them all year round:

“We will definitely be wearing them all year round now as I don't think jellyfish know calendars!”

Reflecting on the situation Mel explained how hard it was to see her son in so much pain:

“It was pretty horrific, but he's been so brave since, and it definitely hasn't scared him off the water.”

Having gone through such an arduous ordeal trying to find items to relieve her son's pain, Mel has created marine stinger kits which provide everything needed in order to deal with a sting, that she wished she had that day on the beach:

“He wanted to go straight back in the next week, we just had to make sure that we had everything organised, and that's basically how we ended up creating these marine kits.”

The well thought out kits contain, electrolytes, ginger tablets, a vinegar bottle, Australian made sunscreen, aloe vera and insect repellant, a waterproof phone case and basic CPR and marine stinger cards made lovingly by the Brookes children.

Take care this stinger season, and be aware of the dangers of Irukandjis.

www.oceanictales.com.au

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Mel and Reef Brookes at the beach

Mel and Reef Brookes

Irukandji kits

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Last Thursday, expert in demographic trends Bernard Salt was in the region and presented his views on the region and its future demographics.

“The reality is that the Whitsunday Regional Council area, which extends and includes places like Airlie, Bowen, Proserpine and areas beyond, has about 40,000 people at the moment,” he shared.

“Its rate of growth has effectively doubled, in my opinion, from prior to the pandemic, maybe around 400, 500 people a year, to closer to 1000 people per year.

“So, every 10 years at this rate, we can expect another 10,000 people and then on top of that, you have what is called the functional population.

“These would be holiday makers and visitors and backpackers and people who are more transient.

“You're looking at a population of maybe 50,000 at the moment, including the functional population rising to maybe 60 or 70,000 within 10 or 15 years.

“This is a significant increase. It's not completely expected, but this is something that requires visioning and planning, and that is the role, effectively, of a council like the Whitsunday Regional Council.”

Bernard also recognises that in communities that are rapidly growing, the community itself needs to have a vision of what they want in the future.

“In my experience I know what Australians generally want is a good quality of life. They want a place where they can move to, get a job, have a number of job options, buy a home that's affordable, raise a family and have their kids actually choose a career within the local area, if that suits them.

“In my perfect world, those kinds of aspirations would be present in any future strategic visioning of this region.”

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Bernard Salt. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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As one of the region’s longest-running local charitable events, BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort’s 20th annual Camp and sCare didn’t disappoint.

The Halloween family minibreak at BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort was a sell-out once again, with excited children and parents enjoying spooky fun for a good cause. Camp and sCare, raised an impressive $15,008.87 for Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) North Australia.

This annual charity weekend combines outdoor adventure with family fun, offering camping under the stars or cabin stays. All funds raised from Friday night campsite bookings and gold coin donations go to local charities.

Families kicked off the weekend with Halloween-themed fun, including a monster pancake breakfast, eerie outdoor disco, scary sausage sizzle, witches brew slushies, spooky sand art, freaky biscuit decorating, crazy hair braiding, and, of course, Trick or Treating, plus loads of other activities!  

On Monday morning, the team at BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort presented Samantha Baker, the Community Engagement Executive for the Mackay & Whitsundays Region at Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) North Australia, with a charity cheque for $15,008.87.

BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort CEO, Phil Casey, said the resort’s annual charitable activities are well ingrained and align with the long-term ethos of the resort’s owners, the McKinnon family.

“This is the 20th year that we have held Camp and sCare, with this particular event now being a key component in our annual community charity program.

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Last Thursday the Whitsunday Cruisin Car Club donated a cheque of $2000 to the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN).

During Whitsunday Cruisin Car Club’s annual Show and Shine car show they raised money for both the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network and Jure Portelli a local girl involved in motor sport.

President of Whitsunday Cruisin Car Club Sebastian Foti says it’s important to support worthwhile causes in our community, especially through these tough times.

“Anything that we can do to help others is part of our club’s way of giving back to the community that supports us with the car show that we had running at the end of May,” said Sebastian.

Money was raised through raffle tickets for prizes and gold coin donations.

WSPN President Matt Stokes said he is thrilled with the donation.

“It is so refreshing when the community supports us, because then we can re-support the community, it is a circle, and for them to proactively approach us means a lot too,” said Matt.

“We work really hard ourselves to raise money for what we need to do within the community, but these guys are basically another set of arms and legs, and I hope they understand just how much the finances do mean.”

Going forward Matt and the rest of WSPN have a goal of creating a community hub where people can receive contact information, meet a friendly face and more.

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WSPN Mel Turner, President of Whitsunday Cruisin Car Club Sebastian Foti, WSPN Brian Skead, WSPN President Matt Stokes, Secretary of Whitsunday Cruisin Car Club Kerri Southee. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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The cruise season is in full swing and for the 2024/25 season, Shute Harbour will host 25 cruise ship visits, a significant increase from the 19 visits we welcomed in the 2023/24 season.

This year’s total combined guest capacity for vessels visiting Shute Harbour will be an impressive 66,834 passengers and when you add in the numbers of dedicated crew members then it is over 100,000.

Port of Airlie are also thriving and between the two ports the total number cruise ships visits for the Whitsundays is expected to exceed 100.

It also exciting that not only are we welcoming back Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Lines to Shute Harbour and the Whitsundays expanding our cruise line reach to new and prestigious cruise lines, including Silverseas, Viking, and Norwegian. This diversification underscores Shute Harbour’s growing status as a premier destination within the cruise tourism circuit and reflects the allure of our beautiful region.

The broader economic context for cruise tourism in Australia is more promising than ever. The latest economic impact assessment reveals that cruise tourism generated a record A$8.43 billion for the national economy during the 2023-24 financial year. This represents an impressive 49.7% increase from the previous year and is the highest level of economic output ever recorded for the industry.

These numbers are not just figures; they reflect real opportunities and growth for the Whitsundays. The cruise industry’s contribution to Australia’s economy supports over 26,000 full-time equivalent jobs and has provided A$2.83 billion in wages to Australian workers—an increase of 55.8% from the previous year. These statistics highlight the tangible benefits that cruise tourism brings, not just nationally but locally to regions like ours.

However, we must also recognise the challenges that come with these opportunities. The value of cruise tourism to our local economy is undeniable, but sustaining this growth is essential.

The deployment of cruise ships to our region is at risk while Australia remains one of the most expensive destinations for cruise lines. It is vital that we work together—government, industry stakeholders, and local communities—to maintain our competitive edge and ensure that the Whitsundays continues to be a sought-after destination.

Recently I was honoured to attend a special birthday for the 20th Anniversary of the Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors - Airlie Beach in an event held at Shute Harbour Marine Terminal.

It was a great turnout as volunteers from 2004-2024 have provided over 1 million cruise visitors with their warmth and friendly guidance came together to reconnect, celebrate their achievements, and share memories.

Hats off to the leadership and coordination of Ambassadors Keith, Brian and Lyn who spoke and have led the charge of our ambassadors’ service over the years as well as Dea from Tourism Whitsundays for coordinating the current program.

Thank you to every volunteer, past and present, for your tireless dedication. You are true ambassadors of the Whitsundays, ensuring that every visitor leaves with a story to tell and a reason to return. Here’s to continued success and many more years of extraordinary service.

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If you think you’ve explored all that The Whitsundays has to offer, think again! Just a short drive from Airlie Beach, there are hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re looking for adventure or a relaxing day out, here are some fantastic day trips around the region.

Proserpine

A quick drive from Airlie Beach, Proserpine has plenty of treasures worth exploring. Don’t miss the Whitsunday Crocodile Safari, where you can jump on a tractor-drawn wagon for an unforgettable tour to see crocodiles in their natural habitat—a must for nature lovers. For a peaceful escape, head to Lake Proserpine, just 30 minutes away. It’s an ideal spot for camping, fishing, or simply enjoying a picnic while soaking in the stunning views.

Bowen

Just 45 minutes north, Bowen is home to some of the region’s best-kept secrets. Horseshoe Bay is a quiet beach with a vibrant underwater world, perfect for a snorkelling adventure. Afterwards, treat yourself to fresh, local seafood at Bird’s Fish Bar. And no trip to Bowen is complete without a visit to the Big Mango—don’t forget to try their famous mango sorbet!

Collinsville

For a dose of local history, head out to Collinsville. The No. 1 Mine Site offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s mining past. Then, stop by the historic Bowen River Hotel, a charming pub that’s been serving since 1861.

These short drives are the perfect way for locals to rediscover the hidden gems on our doorstep—whether you’re after an adventure or a relaxing day out.

‍Contributed by Tourism Whitsundays

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A few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of visiting Parc Exclusif, the newest addition to the Whitsundays' accommodation offerings. Perched on a hill with panoramic 360-degree views of Airlie Beach and the surrounding Whitsunday Islands, this property is a hidden gem. Recently renovated by the Galloway family, Parc Exclusif now offers a unique setting for short stays, events, and weddings, combining tranquillity with breathtaking scenery.

On Saturday, November 30th, the property will host a launch event where guests can explore the space and experience its charm firsthand. The evening will feature catering by Coastal Food Design, premium drinks, and the chance to mingle while enjoying the stunning sunset views.

The event is a wonderful opportunity to see the property in person, learn more about its offerings, and connect with others in the community—all while supporting a great cause. Proceeds from ticket sales will benefit CQ Rescue.

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, November 30th

• Time: 4pm - 7pm

• Location: Parc Exclusif, Airlie Beach

• Ticket Price: $199 per person

• Charity: Proceeds will support CQ Rescue

• Tickets: Limited availability – secure yours through Airlie Events.

It’s a chance to experience something special in the Whitsundays—don’t miss it!

Contributed by Jade Yvonne, Business Development Executive, Tourism Whitsundays

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Ten-year-old Reef Little, has been making waves on the ‘Fishing the Whitsundays’ Facebook page, where he has impressed with his marine life and sea creature inspired artwork.

Reef began drawing at the age of eight, and while he has always been a naturally creative individual, his artistic skills have reached new heights, particularly since he enrolled in Bridget Peel-Fine Art classes at the encouragement of his mother, Nadine Little.

90% of Reef’s fantastic drawings are inspired by marine life or sea creatures, due to his love for fishing and the ocean.

As he has always enjoyed fishing, he has been on the fishing page from a young age posting pictures of his recent catches.

His recent posts, however, have transitioned from fish pictures to promoting his art on there, where he sells framed copies and prints of his original art work.

While Reef is mainly selling prints of his work, he will also do custom pieces if asked, with businesses, including fishing charters even asking to have his drawings on their shirts.

Since he was eight years old Nadine has put Reef’s drawings on the fishing page and over the past two years his work has become increasingly popular with locals, there is 20,000 people on this specific Facebook page and Nadine explains how increasingly supportive the members on there are, with one guy from Sydney even buying three of reef’s drawings.

“He has now got a name for himself from posting his artwork on that page,” Nadine exclaimed.

The profits from the paintings go directly to Reef for pocket money, and Nadine is excited about the possibility of launching a clothing line featuring Reef's artwork in the near future:

“We’re likely to start with a market stall, and then expand to sell his prints alongside the shirts,” she says.

In addition to the clothing line, Nadine is planning to launch an Instagram page to showcase Reef's talent and reach a broader audience, helping to introduce his art to more people.

Besides being an upcoming artist and going to school, Reef is a very kind boy who loves fishing and the outdoors, and going to his art classes twice a week:

“He’s not a sit inside and be stuck on the iPad kid, he just constantly wants to go out fishing on the boat,” Nadine stated.

Reef has a dedicated wall in his home where he displays his framed artwork, and he is determined to fill it as he continues to create.

Although his art has garnered significant support from the local community, Reef remains incredibly modest. He humbly believes he’s "not that good" and would never claim to be better than anyone else.

Reef’s artistic journey took a notable step forward when he entered his first competition at the Reef Gateway Hotel during the Great Barrier Reef Festival, where he earned second place for his striking striped marlin drawing.

If you’re interested in acquiring one of Reef’s unique paintings, you can reach out to Nadine Little via Facebook.

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Reef with one of his framed prints

Reef drawing up a storm

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In last week’s edition, we honoured two of the three Debney brothers who served their country in World War Two - Corporal Harry Stanley Debney QX2390 and Private Douglas Ross Debney QX 2389, both in the 2/15th Battalion 9th Division. In this edition, we salute George Frederick Leonard Debney, Warrant Officer Class QX4606 of the Royal Australian Engineers.

The first of the Debney brothers to enlist, George was the eldest son, born 16/01/1910. He enlisted in the early days of the war on 03/11/1939 and was posted to 2/1st Field Workshop.

Initially serving in Tobruk, the workshop unit was divided into small sections and scattered about the waddies so that if one section was blown up the unit could still function. This was preferable to having the unit in one area and a target for the German planes to immobilise the much-needed equipment and skilled tradesmen to repair tanks, vehicles and guns. They had no planes and the German planes would dive out of the sun making them very hard to see. Tobruk was known for the daily bombing of the harbour, the Australian infantry grit, the British “bush” artillery and the tank workshops where holes were patched, blood was hosed out and the tank returned to service. George was instrumental in this tank work, no doubt due to his time served training in England on British tanks.

Not long after Tobruk, George suffered from meningitis and was isolated in a British hospital. George was paralysed down the right side and was told that he would never walk again - but he defied these predictions thanks to his fighting spirit and a Polish masseuse who did a marvellous job getting his strength and mobility back again. Such was George’s skill, when the infection had passed, a fellow soldier would visit and sit at his bedside taking notes on repairing and maintenance of the Rolls Royce Merlin tank engines.

When George returned to his unit, forces were under General Montgomery for the big push west against General Rommel and the AIF convoy drove west to El Alamein. The men of 2/1st Workshop were responsible for keeping the vehicles moving. The three brothers – George, Harry and Douglas – were together again.

By this time, the Japanese were in the war so eventually the 9th Division was brought back to Australia. The war in the Pacific was different from fighting in the desert and the 2/1st Field Workshop was divided up into smaller units with George being transferred to the 2/118 Australian Brigade Workshop. George served in Milne Bay, Port Moresby and Finschhaffen. He was involved with the 9th Division landings at Scarlett Beach in New Guinea; in the 2nd wave.

The 9th division returned to Queensland’s tableland area and were regrouping for the landing in Borneo and many older troops were downgraded medically. George was one of these. He was discharged on 18/11/1944.

Upon his return to Australia, he married Dulcie Jean Olsen and they had four children. George had returned with malaria, and this troubled him for many years after the war. Jungle warfare and the climate in New Guinea were detrimental to his health, especially the muscles which had been damaged by the paralysis with meningitis.

George Debney died in Nambour on 20/07/1963. As was the case with many World War Two veterans, he died young.

Postcript: On 17/04/1942, the father of George, Douglas and Harry, Lieutenant Douglas Debney Q224671 enlisted in the Volunteer Defence Corps (VDC) as a way of “doing his bit” at home.

Lest we Forget

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On November 11th we remembered those who lost their lives in wars.

Remembrance Day services took place in many places in the region, including Cannonvale, Bowen and Proserpine.

At the Cannonvale Remembrance Day service almost 50 were in attendance including Mayor Ry Collins, Councillor Clay Bauman, and Councillor Jan Clifford.

Treasurer of Airlie Beach – Whitsunday Sub Branch John Schweitzer spoke on half of the president.

“Today was originally attempted to mark the ending of World War One, the war to end all wars,” he said.

“However, our history has shown World War One was not the war to end all wars.

“Today, we remember not only those during World War One, but all the servicemen and servicewomen we lost and were injured during all wars.

“When you remember those no longer with us don't remember them as older veterans with a bunch of medals, remember them as young soldiers, airmen and sailors full of life with a smile on their face.

“We also ask you to spare a thought to all families left at home while their loved ones are serving in some country on the other side of the world.”

Social Pics
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Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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There are four new faces on the Bowen Tourism and Business (BTB) committee. Erika Schmid, Bernie Mackie, Jilly Paddon and Amanda Brockbank joined the committee at last week’s Annual General Meeting held at the Big Mango. The other committee members are Jenn Honnery, Chloe Bauer, Michelle O’Regan and Natalie Lydom.

Jenn Honnery will remain as chair of the organisation.

In her report, Jenn thanked the staff and the volunteers for their dedication, hard work and passion and she thanked the outgoing committee members.

She said BTB was in a very strong financial position and that the team had welcomed a record number of visitors in the past financial year.

More than 56,000 visitors were welcomed at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre on the Bruce Highway and the information booth at Bowen’s Front Beach – representing more than 150 people every day.

“The revenue we raise through selling merchandise at the Visitor Information Centre, membership, and the funding from Whitsunday Regional Council is invested directly back into the community through our ongoing marketing efforts,” she said.

“In June 2024, we sponsored a full 30-minute episode of Queensland Weekender, taking viewers on a journey through Bowen and Collinsville.

“We are proud to continue to promote Bowen as a holiday destination through television, radio, print and digital channel.”

More than 60 people attended the AGM and this was followed by a night of networking with music provided by Kim-Maree.

The new committee also met after the AGM and elected the executive for 2024/25.

Deputy Mayor Councillor Michelle Wright is pictured with the Bowen Tourism and Business committee for 2024/25 - Jenn Honnery (Chair), Erika Schmid, Bernie Mackie, Jilly Paddon, Leanne Abernethy (Manager and secretary), Chloe Bauer (Treasurer), Natalie Lydom (Deputy Chair), Michelle O'Regan and Amanda Brockbank. Photo supplied

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Long-awaited works have finally begun at Hamilton Plains, located between Proserpine and Strathdickie Road.

Shute Harbour Road is the only major route connecting the Bruce Highway and Proserpine to the Whitsunday townships of Cannonvale, Airlie Beach, Jubilee Pocket, and the port of Shute Harbour. This key road runs through Hamilton Plains, a flood-prone, low-lying area that frequently experiences closures following heavy rainfall.

The project aims to enhance the flood resilience of this section of road by raising its level and increasing the capacity of culverts. These improvements will help floodwaters drain more quickly and efficiently, reducing the likelihood of road closures during wet weather.

The project was secured through funding championed by Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox during his time as Mayor in 2019. However, until now, no work had been done, leaving residents of Cannonvale and Airlie Beach, for the most part, cut off whenever heavy rainfall impacted the area.

“The funding for this project, which I secured as Mayor from the Coalition federal government in 2019, has been sat on for too long by the State Labor government,” Mr Willcox stated in a Facebook post.

“Advice from Queensland Transport and Main Roads is pre construction was set to take place from 28th October to late December 2024, weather permitting,” he added.

Amanda Camm, MP also remains dedicated to ensuring the successful delivery of this project, after having advocatedfor it since 2019. She has emphasised its importance for the community's safety, especially with the wet and disaster season fast approaching:

“Once this project has been completed it will provide minimal disruption during wet season especially for school goers and commuters who travel for work between the towns preventing the roads being cut off.

“Just prior to the election it was announced that the Government advised they will start the flood immunity upgrade.”

As Amanda has only just been sworn in, she will be requesting a briefing on the project as to how it is progressing and to receive more details from the Department including a time frame on the project.

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Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox

Amanda Camm, MP

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Beautiful, affectionate and smoochy Tigger loves attention and cuddles. This bundle of joy came into the care of Bowen and Collinsville Pet Rescue after sadly being abandoned.

Whilst Tigger can be a little shy at first, once he is comfortable with you, he is the most loving boy and will want lots of your affection.

Tigger is great with children and is toilet trained, he also has been desexed, microchipped and vaccinated, so is ready to go to his loving home.

Do you think Tigger would be a great addition to your family? Email: bcpri_adoptions@outlook.com with your contact number and email address.

Sex: Male

Age: 12months

Breed: Ragdoll

Adoption fee: $170

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Can you give Tigger a loving home?

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For this year’s Breast and Prostate Cancer Awareness Day the Proserpine Golf Club have seen the wonderful community we have here in the Whitsundays come together and get behind the cause.

Event organiser Noelene Spurway said the community have come through with supporting the event, with many amazing raffle prizes.

“The community has been amazing,” she said.

“Filbys have donated a Cowboys jersey that is signed, I’m going to get it framed so it can be auctioned off, I’ve also had a Broncos jersey donated as well.

“Lots of people have promised me prizes and donations to the raffle, it's been really good.

“Our community rocks!”

The Proserpine Golf Club has held a Breast Cancer Awareness Day in the past but this is the first time the club has combined it with prostate cancer awareness too.

Noelene expresses that most people have been touched by either of these diseases and it’s important to make people aware of them.

One in six men and one in seven women are diagnosed with the diseases and Noelene also understands the importance of getting an early diagnosis.

“In the earlier stages, there is a much better chance of getting that full recovery as opposed to the late diagnosis. So early detection is best,” said Noelene.

With so much community support the Breast and Prostate Cancer Awareness Day is bound to be a great day out.

Best of all, you do not have to be a club member to join in on the fun, everyone is welcome.

What: Breast and Prostate Cancer Awareness Day

Where: Proserpine Golf Club

When: Sunday 24 November, 10am

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As the waters around the Whitsunday region begin to warm up, it's crucial for locals to be more aware of the upcoming cyclone season, which officially runs from November 1st to April 30th.

Preparing for cyclone season goes beyond simply knowing the dates—it requires careful planning and proactive measures to ensure safety and minimise damage.

Below includes some vital information on how to start getting prepared for cyclone season:

Before Cyclone Season:

1. Council: Verify your home meets cyclone standards with your local council or building authority.

2. Secure: Check the stability of walls, roof, and eaves.

3. Trim: Prune trees and branches near your home (with council approval).

4. Clear Property: Remove loose items that could become hazards in high winds.

5. Storm Surge/Tide: Know the nearest safe high ground and access route in case of flooding.

6. Emergency Kit: Prepare a kit with essentials.

7. Emergency Contacts: Display a list of important phone numbers.

8. Neighbours: Check on neighbors, especially newcomers, to ensure they’re prepared.

When a Cyclone Watch Is Issued:

1. Secure: Secure loose items around your property.

2. Fuel: Fill your vehicle's fuel tank and top up water containers, including those in your emergency kit.

3. Review: Review your emergency plan with everyone in the household, including shelter locations and evacuation steps.

4. Stay updated: Listen to local radio or TV for warnings and info.

5. Check on neighbours: Ensure your neighbours are prepared too

When a Cyclone Warning is Issued

1. Children: If requested by local authorities, collect children from school or childcare centre and go home.

2. Shelter Vehicles: Park vehicles under solid shelter

3. Furniture: Put wooden or plastic outdoor furniture in your pool or inside with other loose items.

4. Secure Windows: Close shutters or board-up or heavily tape all windows. Draw curtains and lock doors.

5. Pack an evacuation kit

6. Remain indoors: and stay tuned to your local radio/TV for further information.

When Hit by Cyclone:

1. Electricals: Disconnect all electrical appliances.

2. Shelter: Stay inside and shelter clear of windows and in the strongest part of the building.

3. Protect: If needed, protect yourself with mattresses, rugs or blankets under a

strong table or bench or hold onto a solid fixture, e.g. a water pipe.

After the Cyclone:

1. Stay Indoors: Wait for official confirmation before going outside.

2. Check for Hazards: Look for gas leaks and avoid using wet electrical appliances.

3. Stay Informed: Listen to local radio or emergency broadcasts for updates.

4. Evacuation Precautions: Only return when it's safe, using recommended routes and taking your time.

5. Be Cautious: Watch for downed power lines, damaged buildings, and never enter floodwaters.

6. Help, Don’t Sightsee: Avoid unnecessary travel; check on neighbors and offer help.

7. Limit Communication: Keep phone lines open for emergencies.

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With cyclone season fast approaching, now is the time to start your garden preparations. Norina Jane from WhitPro gave us her top tips for protecting your garden, and yourself during cyclone season.

The first tip Norina gives is to clear all vegetation at least 1 metre from all buildings. Vegetation close to your house can cause damage to the building in the midst of a cyclone as it brushes against, or worst still, smacks against walls continuously. Also worth noting, is that vegetation against a building is a direct highway for termites, something we all need to be aware of in the Whitsundays.

Norina also explains how it is important to clean out your roof gutters this time of year. Gutters that are blocked by leaf matter and other debris can have dire consequences during cyclonic weather, with excessive water being held in your gutters and back flowing into your home. Water will find “the path of least resistance”, so make sure all gutters are free of debris.

Alongside roof gutters, cleaning out drains and water ways of any obstacles that will affect water flow is also important. This includes buildup of debris such as fallen tree branches, silt, mud and any rubbish piles lying around your garden that you have been meaning to get to. Address these now before the wet season is in full swing.  Make sure that water will follow via its intended path.

Whilst assessing your garden, look up.  Evaluate trees by checking for signs of dead branches, sections of trees that are diseased or have been damaged by pests. One of the biggest causes of home damage during cyclones is fallen trees or branches that damage roofs. This often leads to water entering the home, causing internal damage that can be costly to repair and distressing to deal with during a severe weather event.

Lastly, clean your palms by seeding, removing dead fronds and, of course, coconuts. Coconuts can become dangerous projectiles in a cyclone.

It's always important to plan ahead. Make a plan as to how you will manage outdoor furniture, trampolines and any other lose objects around your yard if there is notification of an impending cyclone.

https://www.whitpro.com.au/

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At the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry Annual General Meeting (AGM) the new board for 2024 – 2025 was announced.

Introducing the Board: President Allan Milostic (LiveLife Pharmacy Airlie Beach), Vice President Vacant, Secretary Megan Taylor (Kapow Interactive), Treasurer Fiona Erquiaga (Smooth Sailing Finance Consulting), Jannah Baker (Scallywag Fabrication), Emily Harvey (Filby’s Motors), Anthony Nobilia (Airlie Beach Executive Services) and Asher Telford (Whitsunday Charter Boat Industry Association and SeaLink).

The Board is supported by the Chamber Liaison Dr Julia Evans and Policy Advisor Richard Evans. Together, they bring over 30 years’ experience in executive leadership, strategy, advocacy, member education and engagement, and operations in state and national peak industry associations.

During the AGM president Allan Milostic reported on activity and future plans for the Chamber’s strategic pillars of advocacy, membership, and business education having spent the last year bedding down new Chamber operations and communications.

“Our advocacy activity this year included opportunities for local and state government candidates to meet and address business community concerns, being appointed to the Council’s newly formed Economic Development Advisory Group, establishing regular knowledge exchange briefings across all levels, as well as joining conversations with Chambers of Commerce from Brisbane and northern Australian,” said President Allan Milostic.

“Looking ahead, in the new year, we will be convening a Chamber Advisory Group – a strategic think tank that will shape a range a Chamber initiatives such as the federal election, regional economic development, workforce availability and productivity, and our Whitsunday Business Conference. Additionally, a special Proserpine Committee will be formed to address specific issues and ideas.

“We’ve seen our membership base increase to 180 spanning all industry sectors. Together with Tourism Whitsundays, we launched the new and historic joint membership offer and have expanded the range of exclusive services and opportunities available to members.

“In the new year, we expect to see increased growth and membership engagement as we strive towards our goal of 300 members by December 2025.”

Following the AGM, a lively and informative conversation took place with two 2024 Whitsunday Business Award winners — Hall of Fame appointee and Most Outstanding Whitsundays Service Provider Judy Porter of Shiift, and Most Outstanding Whitsundays Retailer, Patrick Atkins from Airlie Beach Crew Clothing Co.

1 Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce Board Members Emily Harvey, Megan Taylor, Allan Milostic, Anthony Nobilia, Asher Telford and Fiona Erquiaga (absent Jannah Baker).

3 Courtney Quinn-McCabe, Jude Tyzack, and Joana Mendes

5 Sue Birch, Mark Henry, and Leanne Abernethy

7 Chamber Liaison Dr Julia Evans, Judy Porter of Shiift, and Patrick Atkins from Airlie Beach Crew Clothing Co.

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

At the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry Annual General Meeting (AGM) the new board for 2024 – 2025 was announced.

Introducing the Board: President Allan Milostic (LiveLife Pharmacy Airlie Beach), Vice President Vacant, Secretary Megan Taylor (Kapow Interactive), Treasurer Fiona Erquiaga (Smooth Sailing Finance Consulting), Jannah Baker (Scallywag Fabrication), Emily Harvey (Filby’s Motors), Anthony Nobilia (Airlie Beach Executive Services) and Asher Telford (Whitsunday Charter Boat Industry Association and SeaLink).

The Board is supported by the Chamber Liaison Dr Julia Evans and Policy Advisor Richard Evans. Together, they bring over 30 years’ experience in executive leadership, strategy, advocacy, member education and engagement, and operations in state and national peak industry associations.

During the AGM president Allan Milostic reported on activity and future plans for the Chamber’s strategic pillars of advocacy, membership, and business education having spent the last year bedding down new Chamber operations and communications.

“Our advocacy activity this year included opportunities for local and state government candidates to meet and address business community concerns, being appointed to the Council’s newly formed Economic Development Advisory Group, establishing regular knowledge exchange briefings across all levels, as well as joining conversations with Chambers of Commerce from Brisbane and northern Australian,” said President Allan Milostic.

“Looking ahead, in the new year, we will be convening a Chamber Advisory Group – a strategic think tank that will shape a range a Chamber initiatives such as the federal election, regional economic development, workforce availability and productivity, and our Whitsunday Business Conference. Additionally, a special Proserpine Committee will be formed to address specific issues and ideas.

“We’ve seen our membership base increase to 180 spanning all industry sectors. Together with Tourism Whitsundays, we launched the new and historic joint membership offer and have expanded the range of exclusive services and opportunities available to members.

“In the new year, we expect to see increased growth and membership engagement as we strive towards our goal of 300 members by December 2025.”

Following the AGM, a lively and informative conversation took place with two 2024 Whitsunday Business Award winners — Hall of Fame appointee and Most Outstanding Whitsundays Service Provider Judy Porter of Shiift, and Most Outstanding Whitsundays Retailer, Patrick Atkins from Airlie Beach Crew Clothing Co.

Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce Board Members Emily Harvey, Megan Taylor, Allan Milostic, Anthony Nobilia, Asher Telford and Fiona Erquiaga (absent Jannah Baker).

Courtney Quinn-McCabe, Jude Tyzack, and Joana Mendes

Sue Birch, Mark Henry, and Leanne Abernethy

Chamber Liaison Dr Julia Evans, Judy Porter of Shiift, and Patrick Atkins from Airlie Beach Crew Clothing Co.

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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The Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors celebrated their 20th year last Thursday.

A huge congratulations to all volunteers for reaching such a monumental milestone.

Coordinator Lyn Blanche said herself and fellow Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors, past and present, are extremely proud of this accomplishment.

The event was held at the stunning Shute Harbour Marine Terminal and all volunteers, current serving and old were joined by representatives from Tourism and Events Queensland, Councillor Jan Clifford, Councillor Clay Bauman, CEO of the Whitsunday Regional Council Warren Bunker and Mayor Ry Collins.

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Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors, Tourism Whitsunday Visitor Services Manager Dea Huvonen, and Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins

Manager Aviation, Tourism and Marine Shaun Cawood, Councillor Clay Bauman, TEQ Marina Neidig, Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth, CEO of the Whitsunday Regional Council Warren Bunker, Mayor Ry Collins, TEQ Kim McConnie, Director of Commercial Business Craig Turner, and TEQ Josh Green

Councillor Jan Clifford and Whitsunday Regional Council Manager Aviation, Tourism and Marine Shaun Cawood

Zak Kelly, Emma Murray, and Ross Courtenay

Geoff Smith, Celia Smith, and Robert Woodham

Allan Milostic and Linda Richardson

Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors Coordinator Lyn Blanche, and Tourism Whitsunday Visitor Services Manager Dea Huvonen

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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The Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors celebrated the 20th anniversary of being active in the region this Thursday with a special event held in their honour at Shute Harbour Marine Terminal.

Coordinator Lyn Blanche said the group was extremely proud of this milestone especially since it is a volunteer group.

The Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors celebrate 20 years this week. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

Award Winning Volunteers
Welcome 1 Million Passengers In 20 Years

The Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors’ main role is to greet the cruise ship passengers. As they disembark, the volunteers are there to welcome guests to Airlie Beach, they provide maps, information booklets, and ask what passengers want to get out of their day.

Cruise ship passengers only have limited time in Airlie Beach, so if the passengers do not currently have plans, the volunteers can suggest numerous activities.

Browsing through the local markets, exploring the Bicentennial Boardwalk, taking a dip at the lagoon or indulging at one of the restaurants are popular choices.

Many passengers enjoy spending time in a café or eating lunch and Lyn says this is a byproduct of what they are trying to achieve.

“The main priority is to make sure that every person who comes off the boat has a really good time because what we are looking for is return business,” said Lyn.

“We want them to have such a great day in Airlie Beach that they are going to come back again another time and spend a bit longer with us.

“Additionally, we're aiming to support the local businesses, that's the flip side of inviting people and being enthusiastic about the area is that it supports our local businesses as well.”

As Coordinator, Lyn creates a schedule of all arriving cruise ships and then creates a roster open to all volunteers, and those available can greet the passengers.

Lyn has been with the Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors for almost five years and Coordinator for two.

“In July we reached the millionth visitor and it has been fantastic to be able say, we have welcomed our one millionth visitor in our twentieth year,” said Lyn.

“A big thing for us this year was to win the gold award at the Whitsunday Tourism Awards for Outstanding Contribution by a Volunteer or Volunteer Group.”

Visitor Services Manager at Tourism Whitsundays Dea Huvonen helps out Lyn and the Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors where possible and is thrilled with them reaching 20 years.

“It is an incredible achievement for a volunteer group to celebrate 20 years of service,” she said.

“A big warm thank you and congratulations to each and every cruise ship volunteer who has so kindly donated their time over the years.”

Tourism Whitsunday Chief Executive Officer Tim Booth expresses his thanks towards the volunteers and says they showcase our region to travellers.

“Their dedication and warm welcomes make everyone feel right at home, creating an unforgettable experience for everyone who arrives,” he said.

“We want to give a huge thank you to each and every one of the volunteers for helping showcase the beauty of our region.

“In doing so, they create a lasting impression of our community and truly make Airlie Beach such a special destination.”

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Cruise Ship Ambassador Lyn Blanche Woodham and Dea Huvonen from Tourism Whitsundays accepting an award for Outstanding Contribution by a Volunteer or Volunteer Group at the Whitsundays Tourism Awards last month. Photo credit: R Jean Photography

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Congratulations to the Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors on celebrating 20 years this week – such a huge achievement for this active volunteer group who bring bright smiles and friendly welcomes to cruise ship guests as they arrive in the Whitsundays.

To think they’ve welcomed their 1 millionth passenger this year as well is just incredible.

Twice this week I have been down to the Airlie Beach sign at the Lagoon, once with our journalist Daniel to meet up with the Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors and the second time we went down to interview Tim Booth, the new CEO of Tourism Whitsundays.

It was great to meet Tim who seems like a really nice guy and is full of energy and enthusiasm for the massive role of leading tourism marketing in our region.

You can watch our full interview by clicking the QR code next to the article on page 6, this will take you to our YouTube Channel.

While at the Airlie Beach sign I noticed a nearby landmark had popped-up overnight – the iconic Airlie Beach Festival of Music big-top tent was in-place and ready for this weekend’s festivities.

There is always something that makes your heart sing when you see the big white awning of the tent – the promise of fun and good times – the tent perched on the headland, creating one of the most scenic main-stage venues anywhere in the country.

Now in its 13th year, our local music festival attracts thousands of people from all around the country and, if you haven’t got your tickets yet, I suggest you go and get some!

For the full line-up and an insight into some of the local venues that will be hosting live performances over the weekend turn to page 15 for our special feature.

The weather looks to be amazing all weekend so it will be a spectacular event to attend.

Rach

Quote of the Week: “Life is like a bicycle. To keep your balance you must keep moving” (Albert Einstein)

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In November, you might notice more mo’s popping up everywhere. While they often serve as a fashion statement, this month they carry a much deeper significance.
Movember is a charitable organisation dedicated to raising funds for different facets of men's health, including mental health, suicide prevention, testicular cancer, and prostate cancer.
Now emerging as a global movement, Movember is a powerful conversation starter for men worldwide and opens a safe space for those struggling.
Here in the Whitsundays, local men are already embracing the spirit of Movember by growing their moustaches, whether on their own or as part of their workplaces.
Do you think you can grow the best moustache in the Whitsundays? Enter our free competition for a chance to have your 'mo featured in the newspaper! The top mustache will win a business feature valued at $600 for your chosen business.
Join the Movember squad this year and make a difference. Grow a 'mo for your bros and help raise awareness!
Head to Mackay and Whitsunday Life Facebook page on how to enter the competition:

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Monday, November 11, marks the anniversary of the Armistice that ended the fighting with Germany in World War I.
Each year, at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, millions around the world observe a moment of silence to honor the sacrifices made by countless individuals, ensuring the freedoms and peace we enjoy today.
Suburbs around the Whitsunday region are all hosting remembrance services to pay respects to the lives that were lost.
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Find your local remembrance service below:
Bowen – Bowen RSL, 11TH November 2024, 10:45am
Airlie beach – Cannonvale Cenotaph, 11TH November 2024, 11am

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The Whitsunday region is one step closer to being Australia’s first space rocket launch site following the announcement this week that an orbit launch permit has now been granted for Bowen Orbital Spaceport.

If all goes to plan, the first rocket launch for the Gilmour Space launch site in Bowen could happen within the next few months.

Minister for Industry and Science, Ed Husic MP, and the Australian Space Agency has granted the country's first orbital launch permit to Gilmour Space Technologies for its maiden Eris rocket launch from the Bowen Orbital Spaceport.
 
An Australian launch permit is required under the Space (Launches & Returns) Act 2018 to launch an object from Australia to an altitude of over 100 kilometres. It comes with a number of conditions that must be met before launch, and a mandatory 30-day notification period. 
 
Gilmour Space CEO and co-founder, Adam Gilmour, welcomed the news as a major milestone for the local space industry. "With this green light, we will soon attempt the first orbital test flight of an Australian-made rocket from Australian soil.”
 
"Our team is assessing the conditions of the permit and will advise on the anticipated launch date for Eris TestFlight1 in the coming weeks."
 
In March, Gilmour's Bowen Orbital Spaceport was granted Australia's first orbital launch facility licence by Minister Husic and was officially opened by then-Queensland Deputy Premier Cameron Dick. 
 
In September, the company announced it had successfully completed a major wet dress rehearsal of its Eris launch vehicle, progressing the countdown to T-10 seconds.
 
The upcoming TestFlight1 will be the first of several planned test launches to reach orbit with Eris, which leverages new propulsion technologies developed by the Gold Coast-based company.  

Since starting its rocket program in 2015, Gilmour Space has expanded to over 200 employees, built a local supply chain of more than 300 Australian companies, attracted significant private investment, gained support from local, state and federal governments, and actively engaged communities across the region.
 
Its north Queensland spaceport, one of only a few private orbital launch sites globally, will initially provide access to low- and mid-inclination orbits.
 
With rockets and satellites designed and built on the Gold Coast and launched from Bowen, Gilmour's efforts have been a boon for regional Australia. 
 
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said this is a huge milestone.

"The launch approval marks an incredible milestone for Bowen and the Whitsundays region,” said Mayor Ry Collins.

“The team at Gilmour Space have been incredible to work with, and their commitment to engaging Bowen residents in this journey is a model of proactive community involvement. 
 
"Success here isn't just about reaching orbit—it's about positioning Bowen as a key player in Australia's journey to space. This is just the beginning."

For updates on TestFlight1, visit gspace.com/missions.

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Gilmour Space founders, brothers Adam and James Gilmour
Gilmour Space's Eris orbital launch vehicle at the Bowen Orbital Spaceport in north QLD
Eris on the pad

Photos supplied

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Tourism Whitsundays new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Tim Booth is now in the region and started his new position on Monday.

Tim has 18 years of experience in destination marketing organisations, progressing through the ranks and most recently was the CEO of Mudgee Region Tourism before becoming the CEO of Tourism Whitsundays.

Under Tim’s leadership the Mudgee Region increased visitation, visitor spend and won multiple State and National Tourism Awards.

Tim said he is thrilled to be working alongside the dynamic team at Tourism Whitsundays and is looking forward to meeting the fellow Tourism Whitsundays partners and members.

“We have always got to try and be better every day, that’s what we are trying to do for the entire region,” said Tim.

“We are managing the brand for the Whitsundays, we want to make sure that we get the message out there about how beautiful our region is and thankfully its absolutely iconic and world class.

“We have also got to look at continuing to build and be better every day. That’s the community, that’s all of our businesses and continue to offer a world class destination.”

Tim's prior experience includes developing and implementing major projects such as brand redevelopment, social strategy, website overhauls and event-specific platforms like the Everi platform.

He has successfully managed all aspects of digital strategy, including SEO, SEM, social media, and content creation, all while driving a data-led decision-making approach.

Tim is thrilled with his new position saying, “How could you not want to work in one of the most magical places in the world?”

Click on the QR code here to watch the full video of Tim’s interview.

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Tim Booth New CEO of Tourism Whitsundays was interviewed by Rachael Smith from Whitsunday Life Newspaper earlier this week. Photo supplied

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Last week Bowen Gumlu Growers (BGGA) celebrated a two-day agricultural event titled ‘GrownIn NQ’.

Bowen Gumlu Growers Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Jenn Honnery said the two-day event went well.

“On day-one growers, agribusinesses and related industries, got together for an industry breakfast. We had a couple of speakers talking about their specific industries, soil health and crop rotations and then we headed out for some farm tours,” said Jenn.

“On day two there was an Innovation Showcase. We had about 21 exhibitors showing off a very broad spectrum of Ag tech that's available in Queensland right now.

“It was a great opportunity for growers to get their hands on what's available for their businesses and have a really good chat with their suppliers about what would work for them."

Jenn noted that on day two it was great to see not just Ag tech suppliers and businesses interacting but seeing business to business interaction too.

“At BGGA we're really supportive of growers who are interested in investing in ag tech,” said Jenn.

“Ag tech isn't a new thing. It's been in this space for a very long time.

“I think now it's really drilling down into more data, and the more data you have about your crops, your yields, water management, pest management, the more you can fine tune your business decisions and support cutting costs, and get some real benefits in certainly yields, but also quality of produce.”

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GrownIn NQ event was extremely successful with many businesses attending. Photo sourced: Facebook

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It’s a new era for the Whitsundays, with our re-elected Queensland Member of Parliament Amanda Camm entering government and the Cabinet as Minister for Families, Seniors and Disability Services and Minister for Child Safety and the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence.
The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry offers our congratulations to the candidates who stepped up to represent our community and responded to Chamber member concerns. We look forward to continuing raising the challenges and ideas of the Whitsunday business community with Ms Camm, particularly the priorities of road infrastructure, business insurance, and increasing regional influence.  
The Chamber’s advocacy efforts span all levels of government and regional stakeholder groups, where we are a voice for the business community. We have recently been appointed to the Whitsunday Regional Council’s Economic Development Advisory Group that has the distinct purpose to support and promote the growth, sustainability, and competitiveness of our local economy through collaboration between the local government and key industry and business stakeholders. In addition to this forum, the Chamber has embarked on a series of regular knowledge exchange briefings with Council, and our members for state and federal government.
Yesterday we held our Annual General Meeting, providing positive reports on membership growth, engagement, and financial sustainability. We also outlined plans for the year ahead including the establishment of a Chamber Advisory Group, a strategic think tank that will shape a range a Chamber initiatives such as the federal election, regional economic development, workforce availability and productivity, and our Whitsunday Business Conference. We look forward to sharing updates on our progress and how the business community can get involved.
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Contributed with thanks to Alan Milostic,
President of Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

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The Council's Greening and Growing Bowen initiative created a recycled water network for Bowen's parks and public green spaces. The recycled water is treated to very high standards, ensuring it's safe for community use. With additional measures like late-night irrigation to ensure absorption before public use, this program saves $250,000 annually. Starting 1 July, the program will extend to Grays Bay Foreshore Park. For more information, check out the fact sheet on our website. https://bit.ly/Whitsundayrecycledwater

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Council recognise that local businesses are the backbone of our economy. When we engage local suppliers, tradespeople, and service providers for council projects, we’re not just delivering value for money; we’re investing in the long-term prosperity of our region.
 
For local businesses looking to work with councils in Queensland, understanding the strict procurement process is key to successfully securing contracts.
 
Which is why Council is proactive in hosting FREE workshops, specifically designed to guide you through the council's tender process and boost your chances of success. Our procurement team held a workshop recently at Shute Harbour Marine Terminal and another is planned for Flagstaff Hill.
 
I know that navigating tenders can sometimes feel complex, but these workshops are designed to make the process simpler and more accessible to local businesses. The workshops give practical insights into the process and allow interaction with procurement specialists to better educate local businesses in understanding the tendering process and improving their chances of success.
  
Council also gives a percentage weighting to local businesses to make them more competitive because we believe local businesses bring more than just skills and expertise. When they work on council projects, they’re doing more than fulfilling a contract—they’re helping to build the very community in which they live, work, and raise their families.
 
Using local businesses keeps money circulating within our region. It means jobs for local people, growth for local enterprises, and an economy that’s strong, resilient, and capable of weathering challenges, whether they be global pandemics or natural disasters.
 
We know that supporting local businesses also brings other benefits—environmental sustainability by reducing transportation costs and emissions, increased engagement and collaboration, and higher levels of trust and accountability, because the people delivering council projects are your friends and neighbours.
 
Council is committed to ensuring that local businesses have every opportunity to participate in our procurement processes through initiatives like our free tender workshops.
 
To the businesses that already partner with the council, thank you for your hard work and dedication. And to those considering taking part, I encourage you to get involved, bid for tenders, and help us continue building a bright future for our region.
 
Together, by investing in our local businesses, we’re investing in a stronger, more connected Whitsunday community.

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The B Kinder Foundation is taking meaningful action to foster a kinder world by hosting a Stand and Walk for Kindness on World Kindness Day. Local children will come together to participate in this inspiring event, spreading a message of compassion and encouraging others in the community to join in and make a difference.
The B Kinder foundation offers a positive solution to the mental health issues that youth are facing.
Former Whitsunday resident Danny Mayson-Kinder founded B Kinder to honour the legacy of her beautiful 12-year-old daughter Billie Kinder who tragically died in a horse accident in 2016.
After Billie's accident, her mother, Danny Mason-Kinder, found her daughter’s paintings and poems, which illustrated incredible insights into kindness and empathy. She has since used these to create a book using her daughter’s work.
Seeing how this book inspired others, Danny created the B Kinder Foundation and the broader B Kinder Day, to help spread kindness and combat bullying in the community and within schools.
It is now part of Billie’s legacy to help thousands of children discover the power of kindness through various programs.
These programs and initiatives are having a substantial impact in schools and throughout communities around the country taking positive and preventative action.
Using Billie’s insightful words and beautiful artworks, B Kinder has created evidence-based well-being programs and resources to help children in their pivotal years by encouraging them to become kinder, more empathetic and more compassionate.
Everyone can make a difference. The Walk for a Kinder World will help individuals to connect with community, remind them that kindness matters and help raise funds to supply our programs and resources where they are needed most.
At the event there will be a free sausage sizzle, fruit and water provided as well as everyone receiving a free b kinder card to pass on some kindness to someone else for World kindness day!
Head on down and remember to B Kinder!

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What: Walk for Kinder
When: Wednesday 13th November, 7am-8am
Where: Cannonvale Beach Foreshore opposite Fat Frog Cafe

Proserpine State High School students mark B Kinder Day

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The grand opening of the Classic Christmas Shop at 18 Main Street in Proserpine, last Friday, was a huge success.

As we enter the festive season, this new Christmas store in Proserpine supplies us with joyful spirit and good cheer.

From snow globes to tree decorations, to ornaments, the Classic Christmas Shop in Proserpine has your festive season covered.

Caroline Garraway is owner of the shop alongside her daughter Alexandra Garraway.

Alexandra Garraway expressed these thoughts:

“Christmas is such a magical time for our family,” she said.

As Christmas is the time to be spreading joy Alexandra also expressed that the store is a place where you can always find joyous Christmas spirit.

“The joy on people's faces is always really fun and we did a little preview night a couple nights ago, with some friends to welcome them to the shop,” she said.

“It was so exciting, and to see everybody wanting to see everything light up was honestly the best.”

The family behind the Classic Christmas Shop are extremely proud of the store they have created.

The opening day was made even more special with Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins cutting the ribbon to officially mark the opening.

Head down to Classic Christmas Shop in Proserpine and make sure to check out the family’s resident Nutcracker Harry. He has been in the family for years and he is always available for a photo.

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The family behind the Classic Christmas Shop Caroline, Alexandra, Jessica and Amy Garraway
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins cutting the ribbon

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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This week
Season to date
Cane crushed
91,441
1,261,715
Average bin weight
9.50
9.61
CCS
13.89
14.05
Cane variety performance for region
Variety
%
CCS
Variety
%
CCS
Q208
20.9
14.53
Q253
10.7
12.30
Q240
20.2
14.08
KQ228
3.3
13.37
SRA9
13.5
14.10
Q252
2.0
13.67
Q183
13.1
14.16
SP80
1.7
13.10
Comments
Proserpine Mill processed just over 91,400 tonnes of cane for the week, bringing the season total to 1.26M tonnes.
Throughput was above budget, following the successful installation of a new injection water pump motor early in the week. This addressed an issue which had been limiting the factory’s crushing capacity.
The average weekly CCS came in below budget at 13.87 units.
The highest CCS was 16.60 units from a rake of ratoon Q208 from the Elaroo productivity district.
Please remember to use your train brain and always take care around our cane rail network.
A fully loaded cane train can take up to one kilometre to pull up. Our cane trains work around the clock, seven days a week.
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Peter Luke
Cane Supply Manager
Proserpine Region

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The Proserpine Lions Club is excited to announce that students from Proserpine State High School have taken the initiative to establish a young Leo’s Club. This new venture aims to engage local youth in community service, fundraising activities, and a variety of projects designed to support and enrich the Proserpine community.
Leo clubs are the youth arm of the Lions Clubs International organisation, empowering young people who understand the impact of service and are committed to making a difference. Through volunteer work and community involvement, Leo Club members not only improve the lives of others but also grow personally, gaining valuable leadership skills, building lifelong friendships, and creating positive change.
Leo Clubs can be established in schools or within local communities. Each club is supported by a Lions club sponsor, with a designated Leo Club Advisor from the sponsoring Lions club providing guidance. For school-based clubs, a faculty member is often appointed to assist and support the club's activities and goals.
The Proserpine Lions Club will be actively involved in guiding and mentoring the students as they embark on this journey. The Lions believe that this club will not only empower young people but also strengthen community ties and encourage a spirit of volunteerism among the youth.
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Proserpine State High School students with Mayor Ry Collins

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Proserpine Golf Club is hosting a fantastic fundraising event in support of Breast Cancer and Prostate awareness day.
The event was organised in response to several club members having both breast and prostate cancer. Additionally, event organiser Noelene Spurway was personally impacted, with both her father and a close friend battling one of these cancers.
In previous years, the club has primarily focused on fundraising for breast cancer awareness. However, recognising that prostate cancer is equally significant, the club has decided to expand its efforts this year to support both causes.
This year's event will consist of a variety of activities, including a ‘Best Dressed’ competition, live music and a BBQ. If that isn't enough to get you excited, the club will also be auctioning off a framed signed football jersey donated by Filby's Motors and framed by Whitsunday Framing, a Broncos Jersey, a trip to the reef and a fishing charter, alongside much more.
There will also be a raffle and a 100’s Board, to keep you entertained throughout the day, and to help fundraise for the cause.
If transport is a worry for you, Whitsunday Transport will be providing rides to and from the event for a gold coin donation. The bus will be stopping at all major bus stops from Proserpine to Jubilee Pocket, to ensure anyone wanting to attend the event, can.
Another great perk is that you don’t need to be a club member to join in — everyone is welcome to come out and support the cause. Whether you create your own corporate team or simply show up to play, your participation makes a difference!
Noelene Spurway added that she looks forward to seeing individuals come and support the cause:
“Nearly everyone will have been touched by prostate or breast cancer, whether it's having it themselves, or a friend or family member having it, there's very few people it hasn't touched.
“We are just trying to raise as much money as possible for breast and prostate cancer.”
Prostate and breast cancer are two of the most common forms of cancer, with 1 in 6 men being diagnosed with prostate cancer and 1 in 7 women getting a breast cancer diagnosis. It is, therefore, highly important to support these events.
Join the Proserpine Golf Club for a day of fun and fundraising! Play your best round while fundraising for breast and prostate cancer – and who knows, you might even score a hole-in-one!

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What: Breast and Prostate Cancer Awareness Day
When: 24th November, 2024, 10am
Where: Proserpine Golf Club
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Come support Prostate and Breast Cancer Awareness day

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Rescued from Burdekin Pound, Squid and Sprinky are the perfect puppy pair—full of energy, adventurous spirits, and a love for exploration. These two are waterplay enthusiasts and can't get enough of cuddling with their foster family. Their playful nature and affectionate personalities make them an absolute joy to be around!

Their crate training is progressing smoothly, and they are picking up valuable pack manners from their older dog companions. In addition to enjoying the company of their canine friends, they are also learning to interact respectfully with other animals, including cats and their kittens, chickens, sheep, and cattle.

Both pups will be at Bowen Pets Domain on Saturday 9 November 2024 for the Pets Domain Market, or If you can't wait to adopt Squid or Sprinky email: bcpri_adoptions@outlook.com with your contact number and email address.

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Breed: Cattle x Lab
Sex: Both male
Age: 3 months
Size: Will grow to be medium sized
Adoption fee: $400 each (includes desex at 6 months)
Vaccinations: Both have been microchipped, heartworm vax, puppy vaccinations, vet checked and flea, tick, and worm.

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Embracing the Queensland Government’s 2023-2024 accessible tourism push, Endeavour Foundation has launched an inclusive video showcasing the Whitsundays, hosted by locals Jenny and Charlie.
“It was really good to do the video again. It was a good challenge, I got to see lots of great things, and loved doing the walk on Whitehaven Beach … I was that happy about it all, I had a sing on the boat,” said Charlie, who attends Endeavour Foundation’s Learning and Lifestyle hub in Cannonvale.
Jenny echoed his excitement, saying, “Doing the video again was fun. It was great to be able to tell people what they could do here in the Whitsundays. I want to do it all again!” She emphasised the importance of highlighting accessible options, so viewers can make safe, informed decisions about their travel.
The video showcases inclusive activities, starting in Airlie before heading to Daydream Island and Whitehaven Beach. It features jet skis, a semi-submersible, and more, with two-year-old therapy dog Toby also making an appearance, the region’s first onboard therapy dog.
A 2024 report revealed that 23% of all domestic holidays are taken by people with disabilities, representing 18.5 million trips worth $6.8 billion.
“People with disability are on the move and want to get out and explore,” said Endeavour Foundation spokesperson, Jasmin Forsyth.
The video introduces innovative, multi-use, waterproof headsets that reduce noise during water activities, enhancing accessibility for all visitors.
Making tourism accessible is crucial so that everyone can enjoy their holidays. Endeavour Foundation has a proud seven-decade history of providing support and advocating for Australians with intellectual disabilities.

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It would have been difficult enough for any parent that one child enlisted in war, but imagine the feelings of Douglas and Frances (nee Myles) Debney when all three of their sons signed up to serve. Having himself trained in the Light Horse militia in the early part of the 20th Century, and having seen his older brother go off to the Boer War, Douglas Debney Snr fully understood his sons’ patriotic spirit and a thirst for adventure and agreed to their enlistment.
Corporal Harry Stanley Debney QX2390 and brother, Private Douglas Ross Debney QX 2389, enlisted in Miowera on 24/05/1940 and both in the 2/15th Battalion 9th Division. Initially, Harry had been turned down due to a hernia, however after it was repaired, he successfully enlisted. Due to an intermittent heartbeat, Douglas had also previously been knocked back twice. On his third attempt, and under his threat to go to New Zealand to enlist if he failed again, the medical officer signed him off but with the comment, “no need to be so bloody arrogant about it.”

The brothers’ first campaign was Tobruk. Despite many near misses and daily dodging of the 5.30pm German artillery bombardment, both Harry and Doug survived five long months in the heat, dust, sand storms, unbearable fleas, regular night patrols into “no man’s land” and rations sometimes as low as a pint of brackish water a day to drink and wash, two hard biscuits and 1/2 tin of bully beef captured from the Italian food dumps and which the Aussies swore was horse meat.

The second campaign in which the brothers were involved was the Battle of El Alamein. There were two battles; the first in July 1942 which was inconclusive but halted further progress of the Germans into Egypt and towards the Suez Canal. The second offensive on 01/09/1942 and code named “Operation Bulimba”, was a frontal infantry assault on entrenched German positions. As such, casualties were expected to be high, so orders were given that no two brothers were to take part in this action together. Whether through bond, a sense of commitment to each other, or honour, neither Doug nor Harry would back down. Both went into battle that dawn.

During “Operation Bulimba”, Doug was the section’s Tommy gunner. As their division approached the German line, he fired off his 50 round circular magazine across the top of the sandbags of the enemy’s trenches. The Germans replied with mortars and as the incoming mortar rounds exploded, many of his section died. Sadly, Corporal Harry Debney was one of these casualties. He is buried in the El Alamein War Cemetery and is honoured on Proserpine’s cenotaph and the Wall of Remembrance at Cannonvale. He was only 24 years old.
Doug was also seriously wounded when a close blast delivered its searing payload of shrapnel into both arms, shattering his left elbow and badly wounding his right shoulder and bicep. Bleeding profusely and just maintaining consciousness, his determination turned towards avoiding capture meaning certain death. In the desert environment, injuries as bad as his would be considered beyond treatment by even the most compassionate of enemies. Incapable of dressing his wounds, a couple of medics assisted him off the battle field and tried to stop the bleeding. Unable to help further, Doug told them to leave. Staggering back towards his lines, he was eventually picked up by stretcher bearers. He had lost so much blood that the medics gave him little chance of survival. Despite that he pulled through.
“Operation Bulimba” was the costliest single action for the 2/15th Battalion with approximately 45% casualties - dead and wounded.
On medical grounds, Private Douglas Debney was discharged on 06/08/1943. Upon his return home, he worked on the family cane farm at Cannon Valley despite being offered a full TPI pension. In 1956, he married Margaret Rose and they had two children, Howard and Lenise. In 1976, they sold the farm and moved to Sydney. Their farmhouse still stands today where the Butterfly Effect Nursery is situated on Shute Harbour Road.  

Douglas Debney died in Sydney on 30/11/2001 aged 89 years. His funeral took place at the RSL War Veterans Chapel in Collaroy.

Postscript: About six weeks after “Operation Bulimba” older brother, George Frederick Leonard Debney, Warrant Officer Class QX4606 went through the battle area and found a bloodstained Irish linen handkerchief with the initials DRD. He recognised it as a gift to Doug from an aunt. Nearby was an empty tommy gun 50 round magazine with a shrapnel hole. Douglas Debney had come close to death on the same battlefield on which his brother had been killed.
Lest we Forget

Story courtesy of Proserpine Historical Museum and Howard and Grahame Debney. Photos courtesy Debney family.

Corporal Harry Debney (KIA)
Private Douglas Debney

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Tourism Whitsundays recently hosted a talented group of journalists to showcase the incredible experiences our region has to offer. In collaboration with Virgin Australia, we welcomed six journalists for an exciting five-day famil trip that highlighted the diverse activities available in The Whitsundays. 

Representatives from Traveller, Australian Geographic, news.com.au, Pedestrian, Mamamia, and RUSSH joined us as we curated an itinerary that showcased the diverse activities in The Whitsundays. From bike rides through the stunning Conway National Park to delightful lunches at hidden gems like Montes, the trip was packed with unforgettable moments. Of course, no visit would be complete without exploring the icons of Whitehaven, Hill Inlet and the Great Barrier Reef. 

Stay tuned for their features, which will shine a spotlight on the diverse experiences, accommodations, and hospitality providers in our region. A big thank you to all our members who contributed to showcasing our region so beautifully!  

We’re always on the lookout for passionate operators to collaborate with, ensuring each experience truly reflects the unique offerings of our area. If you’re interested in getting involved or would like more information, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at pr@tourismwhitsundays.com.au. 
 
Contributed by Rosanagh Gallivan, PR & Social Media Executive, Tourism Whitsundays 

Photo supplied

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A trip to Montes Bar and Grill in Cape Gloucester is always a fantastic choice, and this visit was no exception! Zana and I had the pleasure of hosting visiting journalists for lunch, and we were thoroughly impressed by the exceptional food and top-notch customer service. 

We opted for a banquet-style menu to sample a variety of dishes, and we were left completely satisfied. Highlights included Peruvian grilled chicken with green chimmi and sticky achiote, market fish with fresh salsa verde, and a succulent 300g Emerald Valley sirloin steak. 

Montes is passionate about using fresh, local produce, and their culinary expertise runs deep— with manager Dan passing down all his expert secrets to his son, Sam. A young man destined to reach incredible heights in his culinary career! The menu features a delightful blend of South American, Spanish, and Italian influences within a modern Australian framework, with seafood and steaks as signature offerings. 

There's something magical about the colours of the ocean that perfectly enhances the dining experience. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Northern Cumberland Islands in the Whitsundays, Montes Bar and Grill is the perfect spot to relax and indulge! 

Contributed by Jade Yvonne, Business Development Executive, Tourism Whitsundays 

Photo supplied
 

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While results of last week’s State Election have not yet been officially declared, Amanda Camm has claimed 69.6 per cent of the votes and has been successful in her bid to secure a second term as Member for Whitsunday.

Meanwhile, Dale Last has commanded 65.7 per cent of the votes counted so far and has also secured another tenure as Member for Burdekin, the area that encompasses Bowen and Collinsville.

Both LNP candidates are, for the first time, representing their region while not in opposition following David Crisafulli’s landmark victory and subsequent announcement as the new Premier for Queensland.

Whitsunday Region Stands To Gain
From LNP Led State

For the first time in more than 10 years, LNP is now at the helm of both the Whitsundays region and Queensland as a whole.

This means that vital projects and funding avenues that had previously been caught in the crossfire or used as political footballs, can now be actioned with both our local leaders and heads of state representing the same party.

This also means that election promises made by both Amanda Camm and Dale Last during the demanding campaign race can become realities, each project having a positive impact on the region.

Amanda Camm commented this week that she was thrilled to see Transport and Main Roads (TMR) had already started on preliminary works to flood-proof Hamilton Plains and said she is “committed to seeing the full project delivered”.

In addition, Ms Camm promises that a new Shute Harbour Boat Ramp will be delivered and broader state-wide issues such as youth crime, cost of living and health services will be addressed on a local level.  

“We really want to make sure our region receives its fair share of funding,” she said, stating that an LNP led state government means that “every election commitment I’ve made, I can actually deliver.”

“I’m keen and motivated and energised to get working and to deliver for the region”

Similarly, Dale Last Member for Burdekin says he is excited to deliver for the region, with one local election promise, driving the redevelopment of Bowen Marina Precinct, high on his list.

“We’ve campaigned for a fresh start for Queensland, and we have a real commitment for rural, regional Queensland and that’s something I am passionate to deliver,” he shared.

“After 10 long years in opposition, we’re now in government and with a bit of luck I’ll be a minister as well.”

Mr Last was previously Shadow Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, Shadow Minister for Fire and Emergency Services, Shadow Minister for Corrective Services and Shadow Minister for Rural and Regional Affairs.

Meanwhile, Ms Camm was previously Shadow Minister for Child Protection, Shadow Minister for the Prevention of Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence and Shadow Minister for Women's Economic Security.

Ms Camm stated that she would be “humbled to be offered any position” by the government moving forward and that at the moment they are largely in “caretaker mode” while they set a date to officially open parliament under the new government.

“I am really humbled at the number of people who have put their trust in me and the LNP, people who have committed to a fresh start,” she shared.

Mr Last reiterates Ms Camm’s sentiment, sharing his own appreciation for the region.

“I’m so proud and honoured to represent the Burdekin electorate, to have that confidence put in me for the next four years is such a privilege.”

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Member for Burdekin Dale Last, Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm, Laura Gerber MP and Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox. Photo supplied

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Hi Everyone,

We woke up this week with a brand-new state government and welcomed back two familiar faces to our region - Amanda Camm Member for Whitsunday who represents the Airlie Beach, Proserpine and Cannonvale areas and Dale Last Member for Burdekin who represents Bowen and Collinsville.

No matter which party you voted for, the whole region gains in this election because for the first time in more than a decade our local leaders are from the same political party as the new Premier, David Crisafulli.

This means that funding streams are likely to be more forthcoming and projects we have dreamt about for years are likely to come to fruition.

I’ve met David Crisafulli a few times now and at every interaction I have found him to be respectful, humble and engaged.

Our first meeting was here in the Whitsundays, and I think he was accustomed to being asked the hard questions by city journos. It may have come as it bit of a surprise when I put my recording device down and chose to just have a chat to get to know him instead!

The second time I met David was this year at the Queensland Country Press Association Awards night, he was there to present the award for Best Free Newspaper of the Year.

When our name was called for this award, it was particularly nice that he was there to present it – I could tell he was thrilled a small regional newspaper like ours had won such a big award.

David was born in Ingham and began his career as a journalist, this means he not only understands regional towns, he also loves regional newspapers which is another win for us here locally.

To finish off I would also like to personally congratulate the new Member for Mackay, Nigel Dalton. From Police Officer to Parishioner to Politician, Nigel is a good man and I know he will do a wonderful job for his electorate.

Rach

Quote of the Week: “Someone struggled for your right to vote. Use it.” (Susan B Anthony)

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The Good deed this week goes to Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc, who work tirelessly to keep the Whitsunday seas clean and marine life safe.
Eco Barge is excited to announce that Jade, a juvenile Green sea turtle found stranded on the rocks at Seaforth on September 30, will soon be released back into her ocean home.
Covered in barnacles and stranded, Jade was safely transported to the Whitsunday Turtle Rescue Centre with the support of the Mackay District Turtle Watch team.
Upon arrival, Eco Barge’s dedicated team assessed Jade’s health, finding her overall condition good but requiring special care to regain her strength. Over the past weeks, she has received lots of care, including barnacle removal and a nutritious diet of squid and cuttlefish to bring her back to a healthy weight.
A big thanks to the committed efforts of the Eco Barge Whitsunday Turtle Carers, Jade is now ready to return to the sea.
Jade was released on Thursday.
For more information or to find out how you can volunteer your time, please visit www.ecobargecleanseas.org.au

Jade when she was found – covered in Barnacles
Jade the turtle with Lynette Bunker a turtle response volunteer who will be releasing Jade.

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Since announcing their formation just two short weeks ago, the Whitsundays’ inaugural team of ‘Dancing CEOs’ have been extraordinarily busy in their quest to end domestic violence within our communities and raise over $41,000 for Women’s Legal Service Queensland (WLSQ).

Kate Purdie, Candice Crossley, Alice Harriott, Julie Telford and their ‘Team Whitsundays’ mentor, Katelyn Collins, have added another name to their support squad, with the announcement of Whitsunday Regional Council’s ‘Mayoress’, Mel Collins, in the role of Patron.

Through her public profile as wife of Whitsunday Mayor, Ry Collins, Ms Collins will now help with advocacy and awareness of Team Whitsundays’ meaningful mission, describing herself as “honoured” to have been asked to perform ceremonial duties at upcoming fundraising events.

“I’m super excited to support the ladies from Team Whitsundays in their pursuit to entertain us with their dancing prowess whilst raising funds for such a worthy cause – especially as this is an issue close to my heart, having previously worked in the office of our Whitsunday MP, Amanda Camm, during her tenure as Shadow Minister for the Prevention of Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence,” she said.

Meanwhile, behind the scenes an enormous amount of work has already gone into gathering prizes for raffles and organising events – one of which will be truly ‘Epic’.

In another ‘first’ for both the Whitsundays and an established WLSQ fundraiser, Team Whitsundays will be hosting a 2025 ‘Epic Walk for DV’ in Airlie Beach on Sunday, March 30, at the same time as the main event takes place in New Farm Park, Brisbane.

Epic Walk Co-Founder, Brendon Mann, who started the event with his partner, Brendan Smith, as part of their own ‘Dancing CEOs’ team fundraising in 2021, said it was incredible to think that for the first time in its near-five-year history, a sea of purple – the colour synonymous with taking a stand against domestic violence – would be spread across two locations, within the north and south of our state.

“For us it’s not just about the fundraising but also about raising awareness of the services provided by WLSQ and the fact that they are available for women across all of Queensland,” he said.

Being familiar with the Epic Walk from her time as a former Dancing CEO and as an ongoing WLSQ Ambassador, Katelyn Collins said this was a fantastic way for the entire Whitsundays community to get behind not just their local ‘Team Whitsundays’, but also form their own walking and fundraising teams, thereby making a truly personal contribution to the overarching cause.

“We’re calling on not just individuals, but groups of friends, businesses, community groups, schools, regional organisations – anyone and everyone – to accept the challenge, form a team, sign up and start your own fundraising to help WLSQ reach more women when they need it most,” she said.

“Bring a blanket, your dog, your family and friends, and join us for a picnic in the park and live entertainment once the walk ends; and if you’re a business interested in sponsoring the 2025 Epic Walk for DV, we need to hear from you so please, reach out to teamwhitsundays@gmail.com.”

The Whitsundays ‘Epic Walk for DV’ will cover 5km from the Coral Sea Marina Gardens, along the Bicentennial Boardwalk and back.

Registration costs $29, or $24 for early birds and kids walk free.

For more information about upcoming events follow the ‘Team Whitsundays Dancing CEOs’ Facebook page.

Contributed with thanks to Sharon Smallwood.

WHAT: Epic Walk For DV
WHERE: Coral Sea Marina Gardens
WHEN: March 30, 2025

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Alice Harriott, Kate Purdie, Patron Mayoress Mel Collins, Julie Telford and Candice Crossley. Photo credit: Sharon Smallwood

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Police and BMA CQ Rescue were called to the scene of a crash at approximately 12:08pm on Monday 28th October where two cane trucks had collided on private property near Bloomsbury at Gibson Creek Creek Bridge.
Two Proserpine men, aged 38 and 59, were sadly pronounced dead at the scene.
The Forensic Crash Unit and Workplace Health and Safety are actively investigating the cause of the crash, though no insights into the cause of the accident have been confirmed at this time.
Fellow Canegrowers took to the ‘Canegrowers Proserpine’ community Facebook page to express their heartfelt tributes to the two men, posting:
“An absolutely tragic accident. Our condolences are extended to all the family, friends and community of the deceased.”
The Bruce Highway was closed in order to allow the emergency CQ Rescue helicopter to land, which was called by Queensland Health Services, but sadly, the men passed away at the scene.
Andrew Willcox extended his sympathies to the friends and families of the two men:
“My thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of the two hard working cane truck operators who have tragically lost their lives.”

“Right now, it is important we remember them and the community wraps around the industry to support those affected.”
This incident marks the fourth road death in the region in just one month, including the tragic cases of 17-year-old Bree Day and another a 22-year-old woman.

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CQ Rescue helicopter at the scene Photo Credit: BMA CQ Rescue.

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Expansion is at the heart of any successful business, in fact, many people believe that if you are not going forwards, you are going backwards. Explore Property Whitsundays has experienced this momentum first-hand this year with the recent opening of their brand-new office. Located on a prime piece of street frontage on Shute Harbour Road in Cannonvale, the new central headquarters’ metreage almost doubles the previous space and makes room for Explore’s growing workforce.

In just three years, owner of Explore Property Steve Marks, has been the driving force behind growth and success. Starting out with just three staff, including himself, Explore Property now boasts a team of 12, including six sales staff and a thriving property management team.

“Over the last 12 months the business has had enough momentum to self-propel,” said Steve.

“We’ve just kept hitting the mark and kept attracting new business.

“We have a good fun environment in our team, and it all comes down to really good hiring – the right people for the right jobs, and they are all part of moving forward in the right direction.”

As you enter the brand-new office space, located conveniently on the main entry road linking Cannonvale and Airlie Beach, you are immediately embraced by a homely, relaxed vibe that extends both from the welcoming staff and carefully considered aesthetics.

Steve discovered the new location ‘by chance’ and immediately fell in love with the open space that gave him the blank canvas in which to create his dream office space. Within just eight weeks he conducted a complete fit-out of the space, starting from scratch and finishing with a masterpiece.

Opting to create a modern yet cosy feel where both clients and staff feel genuinely ‘at home’, Steve decided to source all furnishings from home stores rather than office suppliers. As you enter the office you are immediately greeted by two comfy sofas and can choose to sit there or head to the meeting room which is equipped with a ‘dining room table’ for a more formal but ultimately relaxing setting.

Inside the central staff quarters, the homeliness continues, a large meeting table sits front and centre, a modern kitchen gives staff access to a range of handy appliances. To ensure the team are performing at their optimum they have the option of spending time in the "Therapy Corner"  where you can enjoy a relaxing 20 minutes on the massage chair to reinvigorate.

The open plan office is subtly segregated into departments and a soundproof booth allows staff to have private conversations with clients when required.

Overall, the whole office embodies a relaxing yet efficient vibe, providing both staff and clients with a positive and motivational space within which to conduct local real estate business.

Looking forward to the year ahead, Steve remains proud to represent the Explore Property Group which is celebrating 10 years this year with a refreshing re-brand that adorns the new office space.

He is also inspired by the various development projects he is working with, namely The Grove where his team has sold 28 new homes to first home buyers in the last 12 months. He is also excited by his growing property management team, which has organically grown to include over 100 properties, something he wishes to double in the next year.

Whether you are buying, selling, renting or leasing, Explore Property Whitsundays looks forward to welcoming you through their brand-new office doors.

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The friendly team at Explore Property Whitsundays
Steve Marks, Principal

Photo credit: R Jean Photography

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Holidaymakers visiting the remote stretch of Whitehaven Beach were witnesses to the dramatic crash landing of a seaplane on Saturday morning.

Fortunately, all four passengers and the pilot on board survived the crash and were rescued by crew from private vessels nearby.

One local resident who was on the beach at the time stated that she was told the plane had been on its maiden voyage and a technical issue forced it to do an emergency landing.

When it touched the water to land, it is believed the plane flipped over.

Hamilton Island confirmed a private vessel in the vicinity of the incident, retrieved the pilot and all four passengers and transported them safely to Hamilton Island Marina where they were met and assessed by emergency services.

No passengers sustained serious injuries.

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The seaplane upturned in shallow waters off Whitehaven Beach. Photo supplied

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For The Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors

As we celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors, Tourism Whitsundays and Whitsunday Regional Council extend a warm invitation to all previous and current cruise ship volunteers and industry supporters.

Join us for a special event on Thursday, 7 November from 2:30-5:30 pm at Shute Harbour Marine Terminal. 

The afternoon will be dedicated to honouring and celebrating the exceptional service of our volunteer group.

The event will commence with networking and refreshments, followed by appreciation speeches and inspiring stories from our dedicated volunteers. 

We are also delighted to announce that there will be an industry update presented by Tourism & Events Queensland.

The Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors have had a year full of celebrations, they greeted their one-millionth visitor, won gold at the Whitsundays Tourism Awards, and now they will celebrate their 20th year in the region.

The Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors aim is to welcome as many visitors as possible and they greet cruise ship passengers right off the boat.

They chat to the visitors, offer suggestions, directions or any other information visitors may need during their short time in Airlie Beach.

For more information and to RSVP, please reach out to The Whitsundays Visitor Information Centre at info@tourismwhitsundays.com.au or simply give us a call at 07 4945 3967.

We look forward to celebrating this milestone with all of you!

What: 20th Anniversary of Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors
Where: Shute Harbour Marine Terminal
When: Thursday 7 November, 2.30pm – 5.30pm

Contributed by Visitor Services Manager at Tourism Whitsundays Dea Huvonen

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With over ten years branch management and banking specialist experience, Amanda Anderson was appointed Branch Manager of Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine in March 2024. Here she shares her highlights from this year, and what to look forward to in 2025.
The branch offers face-to-face full banking service with lenders and bankers, open 9:30am-4pm Monday to Friday.
This year the branch has taken their customer service to the next level by implementing a range of new initiatives such as free home loan reviews, specialist lender appointment bookings, insurance offers, and revised branch hours that best suit our customers.
As a result, the branch is seeing positive growth in deposits and lending and stronger relationships for our customers with mobile lenders and Bendigo Bank business partners.
“One of the major reasons I chose to join Community Bank Cannonvale- Proserpine was to be part of an organisation that is so involved and invested in the local community,” said Amanda.
“Our profit-with-a-purpose model sees a percentage of the profits generated by our independently owned and operated Community Bank branch invested back into the community. When you bank with us, good things happen in the Whitsundays community,” she said.
To the year ahead, the branch team wants to be the bank of choice in the region for customer service and lending, business and rural banking so we can continue to deliver positive growth and continue to support Whitsunday clubs and organisations.
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Amanda also offers some end of year top tips for customers:
   • Review your banking arrangements at least once a year especially your lending rates and insurance.
   • Have a second way to access your banking if you can’t visit a branch, for example eBanking even if it is only for emergencies.
   • Be aware of scams and don't be afraid to ask questions when paying for goods and services. Look to your bank for advice and remember when transferring money in a branch you might get asked questions regarding your transfers to make sure you are not being scammed.
   • Over Christmas, the Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine branch will be closed 25-27 December and re-opening 9:30am Monday 30 December.

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Heart of Reef Shuttles recently won bronze at the Whitsunday Tourism Awards and the whole team is proud to celebrate with the region.

This achievement follows their bronze win at the awards in 2022 and winning the Best of Queensland experience in 2023 and 2024.

They are an extremely popular service which offers door to door transfers, private transfers, transport for wedding groups and recently implemented customised day tours.

Owner and Director Cameron and Michelle Johnstone says the team at Heart of Reef Shuttles pride themselves on their customer service.

“Our staff go above and beyond for our guests – we are the first and last point of contact for their holiday, so we want them to start and end it with a great experience,” she explained.

Michelle said they had three team members present at the Whitsunday Tourism Awards and although they didn’t get the gold, they are very happy and grateful for the achievement with a bronze and thank the whole community for their support.

“It means so much to us to have the continuous support of the community,” said Michelle.

“We are so proud of our achievements since we started in 2018 and our team are fabulous, we couldn’t do this without them.”

She also expressed massive thanks to Tourism Whitsundays and the Whitsunday Coast Airport.

Michelle encourages other local businesses to nominate themselves in the awards, she said it is a great experience and you can learn a lot about where your own business is at, and your future goals.

Cameron and Michelle with their Bronze award, Photo credit: R Jean Photography

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This month we meet Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry member Emma Luxton who launched Luxton Safety & Compliance Australia (LSCA) this year.

After years working in safety and compliance operations, Emma wanted to create something that aligned more deeply with her passion for workplace and home safety.

LSCA specialises in safety and compliance services and has partnered with global firm offering to offer assurance, risk management, safety audits, assessments, fire safety adviser services, and integrated management systems.

“Safety is more than just a workplace issue—it’s a responsibility we carry into our homes and communities. That's why LSCA is committed to delivering services that prioritise safety, protect employees, and safeguard their families,” says Emma.

Since establishing LSCA, she has seen exciting management software and mobile apps that are transforming how businesses track, report, and resolve real-time safety concerns.

They have also been keeping up with changing regulations and educating businesses on the importance of investing in safety, even when budgets are tight.

Emma’s advice to other business owners include:

   • Invest in safety – It’s not just about meeting legal requirements; it’s about genuinely caring for your people and ensuring the long-term success of your business.
   • Adapt and evolve – The world of business and regulations is constantly changing. Stay flexible and be prepared to pivot when necessary.
   • Build strong relationships – Trust is everything, whether it's with your team, clients, or local community. Building solid relationships can make all the difference in the success and growth of your business.

Emma is an enthusiastic member of the Whitsundays Chamber. She says the networking opportunities have been invaluable, and the support from the Chamber helps her team stay informed on local and regional developments. What she enjoys most is the chance to be part of a community that cares—especially when it comes to supporting families and safety.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce & Industry.

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Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry member Emma Luxton who launched Luxton Safety & Compliance Australia (LSCA) this year. Photo supplied

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Whitsunday Regional Council reminds pool and spa owners to carry out simple safety checks to ensure a safe summer. Regularly inspect your pool or spa barrier for rust, loose hinges, or broken panels, and arrange repairs as needed. Make sure no climbable objects like furniture or toys are near the fence. Remember, your pool or spa must be recorded on the QBCC Pools Register, and CPR signage is required to be clearly visible and weatherproof. These steps can make a big difference in preventing accidents. For more information on pool safety and compliance, visit https://www.qld.gov.au/housing/buying-owning-home/pool-safety.

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Every year on January 26 the Whitsunday Regional Council Australia Day Awards celebrate the outstanding achievements and contributions of individuals and organisations across our region.
 
Nominations for the 2025 Whitsunday Regional Council Australia Day Awards are now officially open! These awards are an incredible way for us as a community to recognise the outstanding contributions of individuals and groups who go above and beyond to make the Whitsundays such a special place to live.
 
Each year, these awards honour people from all walks of life—our dedicated volunteers, committed educators, passionate community workers, and even our local sporting heroes.
 
Whether it's someone who has made a difference through a lifetime of service or someone who’s made an impact through a project in the last year, these awards offer the chance to say a heartfelt "thank you" for their efforts.
 
We all know someone in our community who quietly works behind the scenes without expecting recognition. These are the people we want to celebrate—the ones who make a real difference in the lives of others.
 
It could be the coach who devotes countless hours to mentoring young athletes, the volunteer who consistently gives their time to help those in need, or the local business owner who always goes above and beyond to support community causes.
 
By taking the time to nominate someone, you’re not only acknowledging their efforts, but you’re also encouraging them to continue making a positive impact, knowing their work doesn’t go unnoticed.
 
We have several categories available, including Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, and Senior and Junor Sports, so there’s a way to highlight every type of contribution.
 
If you know someone who deserves to be celebrated for their contributions, I strongly urge you to submit a nomination. It’s easy to do, and nominations are open until Friday, December 6. You can find all the details on the Your Say Whitsunday page on our website or by dropping into one of our Customer Service Centres in Cannonvale, Proserpine, Bowen or Collinsville and filling out a hard copy form.
 
Let’s take this opportunity to shine a light on the people who make the Whitsundays a better, stronger, and more vibrant place for us all. I look forward to seeing many worthy nominations and celebrating with our incredible community on Australia Day 2025.
 
Together, let’s show our appreciation for those who are making a difference, one good deed at a time.
 
Ry Collins
Mayor of Whitsunday Regional Council

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Over 30 people attended the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre’s Be Connected Mini Seniors Expo on Friday 18 October.

The Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre offers an ongoing  Be Connected program and last year hosted a morning tea to over 50’s and seniors. At the morning tea they provided the attendees with education on digital literacy, and it was well received.

Due to the success, this year the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre partnered with more services to provide a Mini Expo for seniors.

Executive Officer at Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre Rebecca Woods said it was an important event.

“It was obvious to us that we were able to and had the opportunity to have access to a wide range of services for seniors that complement what we offer,” said Rebecca.

“I think it's important for the seniors in our community to have a have a voice and have an opportunity to look at the services that are on offer in our community in a friendly, relaxed, informal way.

“My team were able to get 15 services here today to showcase their services and their offerings in the community.

“Hopefully, in doing so, seniors are more connected to these services.

“They gain the knowledge and the information about the best ways they can support themselves, so that they remain active, healthy, well-connected seniors.”

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The Coral Voices
Samantha Formosa and Magaret Perkins
Cait and Rochelle
Shirley Telford
Diana and Melissa
Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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This Week Mayor Ry Collins presented his two chosen charities with cheques following a successful 2024 Mayor’s Ball where an impressive $66,000 was raised on the night.

Equal donations were given to the two nominated charities; Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN) and BMA CQ Rescue.

Mayor Ry Collins said that this incredible figure was testament to that support of the local community.

Mayor Ry Collins also thanked platinum sponsors of the event, Abbot Point Operations, Airlie Beach Hotel, and Hillery Group.

“To all sponsors, attendees who paid for their ticket on the night. Donors and supporters of any form, a really a big thank you from myself and the team,” said Mayor Ry Collins.

“Your generosity has truly made a difference in supporting our local charities, supporting critical emergency relief and also supporting mental health and suicide awareness.”

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BMA CQ Rescue Tegan Philpott, Mayor Ry Collins, Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network Matt Stokes and Mel Turner.

Mayor Ry Collins
Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network Mel Turner and Matt Stokes, with Mayor Ry Collins presenting the cheque.
BMA CQ Rescue Tegan Philpott and Mayor Ry Collins
Abbot Point Operations receiving a certificate of appreciation
Airlie Beach Hotel receiving their certificate of appreciation
Hillery Group with a certificate of appreciation
Wilmar representative with Mayor Ry Collins
Parc Exclusif receiving a certificate of appreciation from the Mayor
Gold Sponsor Bowen Rail Company receiving a certification
Mayor Ry Collins with Silver Sponsor Whitsunday Transit

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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The Get Cyclone Ready Event hosted by the Whitsunday Regional Council last Saturday was a great success.

Located at the Airlie Markets, the pop-up event attracted lots of attention, with many passers-by stopping to read the information available and talk to local experts on how to prepare for the upcoming storm season.

Whitsunday Regional Council Disaster Management Coordinator Sandra Black expressed the importance of these events.

“The more resilient you are, the more you've put into your education and your awareness of risks in your community, the quicker you recover,” she said.

With Storm season starting on 1st November, it is important to be educated and ready for every possibility.

Sandra explained that preparing an EVAC kit is a great way to prepare.

More information on how to be cyclone ready is available via the Whitsunday Regional Council website or via the Queensland Government’s website.

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Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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The remarkable life of this amazing man began in July 1880. Reared from an infant on a sugar cane property at Breadalbane, Billy took his surname from the owner, George Waite. Some records indicate that he was born in Charters Towers however Billy denied this. On his passenger records when he travelled to the USA, he named Waite as his father and that he was of Proserpine. It was said that his mother was Aboriginal.

Billy grew up droving cattle; a job to which he attributed his great horsemanship. As a youngster, he was known as a champion sprinter in the 50, 100 and 200 yard races.
When Martini’s Buckjumping Show came through the district, Billy’s life changed dramatically. He and another Aboriginal man, Billy Emmerson, were keen to accept the challenge to attempt to earn a few pounds and fame by riding the already famous outlaw, Dargan’s Grey. Neither stayed in the saddle very long, but Martini was impressed with their ability and invited them to join the show.
Being classified as Aboriginal, they were denied the freedom to leave the district. Journalist, Bill Bowyang, who was working in Proserpine at the time, contacted the local member for Bowen seeking permission for them to join the show. Two days later, a telegram of consent arrived. Emmerson, however, decided that buckjumping was not for him.
In Sydney in 1906, Billy took out the title of Champion Roughrider of Australia. While there, he and his wife, Marion Smith, became the star attraction in “The Wild Australia Show”.

The Waites moved to England during World War 1, then they went to Canada where Billy broke in horses for the war effort. Later, in the USA, they toured with the Orpheum circuit where they cracked whips (as long as 65 foot or 19.8m) and threw boomerangs. They appeared in various shows along with Annie Oakley and Buffalo Bill. Billy continued to win roughriding contests often while cracking a stockwhip! They also travelled to Malaya, Java and India.

Extract from “How to tackle a vicious horse” by Billy Waite  

It may interest you to know that … hundreds of wild horses used to roam about the ranges near my home. They are called "brumbies," and once broken in they possess remarkable endurance. …. I caught one once, when I was only fourteen … and soon broke him in. … he came in very useful not long after. … A boy was shot by accident at Glen Isla, and the nearest doctor was fifty-two miles away, at Bowen. So, I saddled my brumby … and rode off at 7 p.m. You can imagine the power of my mount when I tell you I came back with the doctor at 6 a.m. next morning, having covered the 104 miles in eleven hours. …

One of the biggest jobs I ever tackled in my life was during the South African War, when I rode 450 horses in two and a half days for the Government inspection for active service at the front. On the first day I rode 250, which is’, I believe, a record, trotting each of them fifty yards or so, and cantering them back. The "rogues" were cast aside and only the tractable ones selected for service. I had six men catching and saddling them for me ….

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Billy Waite died in New York in March 1941 and is buried in the Kensico Cemetery where a brass plaque marks the grave of this famous buckjumper from Proserpine.

And so, a chance meeting and an extraordinarily special skill, saw the young Billy Waite catapulted onto the World Stage.

Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Society Museum

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Bowen Tourism and Business is hosting a networking event next week, to be held immediately after the organisation’s Annual General Meeting.

The event will be held at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre, right next to the Big Mango.

The most recent networking event was held at Birds Fish Bar in July and was huge success.

Chair of Bowen Tourism Business, Jenn Honnery said the committee would like to see more networking events and she encouraged all members to attend to ensure another successful event.

“It was decided to hold the AGM and networking at the Visitor Information Centre this year to showcase the expanded range of merchandise and services offered at the centre,” she said.

“At the Annual General Meeting, we will highlight the achievements of the past 12 months and introduce four new committee members.

“The networking will also be a celebration as our team recently won three prizes at the Tourism Whitsundays annual awards.

“We are proud of our achievements in recent years which includes several awards and improving the profitability of the organisation, allowing us to increase our spend on destination marketing to benefit Bowen, Collinsville and the entire Whitsundays region,” she said.

Bowen Tourism and Business has more than 200 members with many being from outside the tourism sector as the organisation believes that “Tourism is Everybody’s Business”.
 

What: Bowen Tourism and Business Networking and Annual General Meeting
When: Thursday 7th November from 6pm
Where: Bowen Visitor Information Centre next to the Big Mango
RSVP: Friday 1 November to info@tourismbowen.com.au

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Meet Pascal, the zaniest feline teenager around! He's got swag and isn't afraid to show it. This self-assured adolescent kitty is still learning the ropes of being a social butterfly, so be prepared for some playful mischief.
While still having some growing up to do, Pascal vacillates between caution and hyperactivity. If you have a feisty feline friend with comparable energy for him to play with, that'd be purrfect and would greatly enhance his socialisation.
While Pascal is a great companion, he requests a home with no children - Pascal needs grown-ups who can keep up with his antics. He requires patient owners with some cat experience and the willingness to invest time in his training.
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If you think Pascal would make a good addition to your family email: bowencollinsville@gmail.com with your contact number and email address.

Rehoming fee: $170
Age: 1 years old
Sex: Male
Other dogs: untested
Other Cats: Yes
Children: No
Vaccinated: Yes
Desexed: Yes
Microchipped: yes

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Glamorous gowns and stunning suits adorned the attendees of the 2024 Whitsundays Tourism Awards which were hosted by Tourism Whitsundays on Daydream Island last weekend.

Local tourism operators were firmly in the spotlight with many businesses taking home awards on the night, some of which were inducted into the Hall of Fame having won their category for three consecutive years.

Special Whitsunday Tourism Awards Feature Pages 16-29.

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Dea Huvonen, Crystal Walton, Rosanagh Gallivan, Aimee Cameron, Laura Knipe, Cait Fleming, Jade Yvonne, Emma Bailes, Tim Booth from Tourism Whitsundays. Photo credit: R Jean Photography

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Hi Everyone,

Wow - What a week! In your hands, you are holding 96-pages of organically sourced, 100% local news delivered for free to you!

The whole team has done an absolutely phenomenal job in creating this paper, in particular the 15-page Whitsundays Tourism Awards Special Feature that showcases 22 local businesses who won awards on Saturday night.

From making phone calls to every Whitsundays Tourism Award recipient asking if they’d like to participate in the feature through to sensational articles written about winners and backed up by numerous celebratory ad designs – it’s been a whole team effort!

Every single member of the team has pulled together and worked especially hard this week – thanks guys!

The office has been operating at a faster pace than usual and while it’s been exhausting, it has also highly exhilarating! Energy levels have been propped up by caffeine and chocolate, and by now possibly a few glasses of celebratory wine!

Another team that works extremely hard here in the region is Tourism Whitsundays. The effort that went into organising the Whitsunday Tourism Awards was incredible, and the event was a great celebration of our vibrant tourism sector.

With 1 in 3 local jobs relying on tourism in the region, the work Tourism Whitsundays do to bring holidaymakers here from both near and far is vital to our economy and it was wonderful to celebrate the whole industry’s achievements on Saturday night.

For the full Whitsundays Tourism Awards Special Feature and to read about the fantastic local operators who won awards over the weekend, please turn to page 15.

Rach

Quote of the Week: “Your adventures take you further than your fears”

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Every day we are blessed to be in this wonderful Whitsunday community and Sofia Andreou experienced that first hand.

Last week, she posted on a popular Facebook community chat site offering to give $50 for free to go to a good home.

It all began when she was cleaning her rental property and found a $50 note hidden behind a book, deciding not to keep it but give it away instead.

“So I thought, I'm going to actually advertise this because it's $50 I didn't even notice that I had and it's very easy to forget when we are prospering, that $50 is really everything to somebody,” she said.

“I thought I might do an experiment and just see if anybody would realise that it was genuine and take me up on it.”

Sofia found the response on the Facebook group overwhelming and beautiful in many ways.

“It opened my eyes to how many people are suffering,” said Sofia.

“Secondly, it made me so grateful for our Whitsunday community, because there was such a large response of other generous people wanting to help as well.

“For example, there were a few people saying in the comments, I need this, or I need this, or I'm struggling with this, or I'm struggling with that. And so many people in the community put their hands up and said, well, I can also help, and I can also help.

“That really brought me to tears.”

Sofia initially advertised the $50 she found and then ended up giving $50 six times over, out of her pocket, because she realised how many people needed it.

She also estimated that her initial post turned into the community giving $3000 worth of donations.

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The $50 Sofia found during her clean, Photo supplied

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The highly anticipated Whitsunday Skyway received a funding pledge this week, promising to propel the $87 million project closer to its goal of being the largest piece of on-land infrastructure in our region.

Amanda Camm MP, Member for Whitsunday, stated that if the LNP are successful in this weekend’s election, they would immediately invest $5 million into the project to get it off the ground and lift the local economy. 
  
The Skyway project will feature a 1km all-weather cable car ride that soars 430m above sea level, offering visitors 360 degree panoramic views of the Whitsunday islands and hinterland. 
    
Amanda Camm said the Whitsunday Skyway will deliver a strong economic impact. 
  
“The Skyway will create 140 new direct jobs on completion, and 591 additional indirect jobs, injecting millions into the local economy,” Ms Camm said. 
  
“It will also deliver major flow-on benefits to other tourism-aligned businesses including accommodation, restaurants, tour operators and more. 
  
“This is catalytic tourism infrastructure that positions Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays as the Heart of the Reef.” 
  
Australian Adventure Tourism Group (AATG) chair Elizabeth Hackett said the project will take Airlie Beach to the next level.  
  
“The Whitsunday Skyway is a sustainable way to showcase the natural beauty of the Whitsunday region, offering visitors land-based adventure activities and spectacular tropical rainforest experiences, including guided tours,” Ms Hackett said. 
  
“Once formal planning and approvals are in place, we expect the construction timeframe to take between 12-18 months. 
  
“The project has strong support from the Whitsunday Regional Council and local tourism operators and will drive economic growth across the region.” 
  
Shadow Minister for the Environment and the Great Barrier Reef, Sam O’Connor, said the project will attract both domestic and international tourists to Airlie Beach. 
    
“The LNP is committed to delivering infrastructure that showcases Queensland’s natural assets, by driving the development of more tourism experiences. 

“An LNP Government will ensure this project operates within strict environmental guidelines, applying strong protections through the approval process to safeguard the pristine natural beauty of the Whitsundays region.” 

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Nathan Lehman, Project Director AATG, Sam O’Connor, Shadow Environment Minister, Elizabeth Hackett, AATG Chair, Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm, Julie Telford, Chair Tourism Whitsundays. Photo supplied

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The whole community is in mourning this week following news that 17-year-old Proserpine State High School student Bree Day tragically passed away after six days in hospital following a road accident at Myrtlevale on the Bruce Highway.

The crash occurred at 3:25pm on Friday 11 October and it is believed Bree was performing a U-turn on the highway when her vehicle collided with a truck.

She was transported to Proserpine Hospital with severe head injuries and was transferred to Townsville Hospital where she succumbed to her injuries and her passing was announced on Thursday 17th October.

Bree, who had just celebrated receiving her P-plates, was in her last year of high-school and had only weeks until graduating. She would have been due to celebrate the end of her school career, making her sudden death all the more devastating for her friends, family and broader community.

The driver of the truck, a 52-year-old Burdell man, was not physically injured.

A Queensland Police Service spokeswoman said the Forensic Crash Unit is still investigating the incident.

The Bruce Highway was closed for several hours due to the crash.

This crash comes less than two months after a 22-year-old woman lost her life also on the Bruce Highway.

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Local student Bree Day passed away following a serious road traffic incident. Photo sourced: Facebook

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Over the last few weeks some of our favourite actors from hit TV show Home and Away have been filming in the region proving there is nowhere quite like the Whitsundays for a stunning backdrop and holiday atmosphere.
The cast and crew filmed across several local locations including Bowen, Foxdale, Airlie Beach and Daydream Island for two weeks.
We’ll have to wait for the show’s release to learn more about the cast and crew's activities, however, Location Manager James Doherty revealed that they have engaged local talent for extras and partnered with cherished local businesses for accommodations and filming locations.
Additionally, Home and Away’s Instagram has teased a comeback for Ziggy and Dean, promising to revive their beloved Summer Bay romance.
The episodes, showcasing the spectacular Whitsundays have no set air-date yet, however, are set to appear on the your tv screens in about 6 months' time.
James explained that they chose the Whitsundays due to its very distinct style that is hard to replicate:
“We've been up and down all the East Coast, we went and scouted several areas like Cairns, Townsville, Mackay and Yeppoon, we went to all those places and still came to pick the Whitsundays and its surrounds,” he shared.
“For us it has the best of all the worlds, you have the cane fields, the Great Barrier Reef, and you've got some beautiful local towns that aren't as looked upon favorably as other towns. We have found so much beauty in those towns, and have really enjoyed our time here.”

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Ziggy and Dean. Photo sourced from Channel 7 and 7+

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1: This is your final elevator pitch - in 80 words - what makes you the best candidate for the job?
 
2: If successful, what is the one key project/legacy achievement that you will be remembered for?
 
3: What role do you think local newspapers play in regional communities?
 
4: What would you say to someone who has never voted for your party before but is thinking about it?
 

Julie Hall
One Nation Candidate For Whitsunday

1:

I stand for the people, with common sense, people focused, policy. I don’t represent the party, nor do I have to tow the party line, like LNP and Labor do. The cross bench can bring the balance of power back to the people where it belongs and hold both major parties to account. The choice is simple, do you want a hands-on MP to represent you, or a career politician that represents their party first.

2:
 
Changing legislation that is crippling businesses, taking away our freedoms, and forcing woke ideology into our workplaces and schools. I will support the Katter Party’s Termination of Pregnancy (Life Births) Amendment bill to ensure babies born alive after a failed abortion will receive pain relief and care. I will also seek to change the legislation that allows perfectly healthy babies to be terminated right up to the day before birth. Both LNP and Labor have stated they will not support these changes, I WILL!

3:
 
Local papers are the heart of the community. They keep the community informed and connected and we most certainly do not want to lose them. Whitsunday Life is a great asset to our community. When it comes to elections all news media should be seen to be A-Political, however, you will see across all media platforms it is the Labor and LNP candidates that are always featured, you seldom see the minor parties getting the same coverage, which is not only biased, but unfair.
 
 
4:
 
If you don’t like where things are going, and you’re as concerned as I am about the future for our kids, then you need to vote differently. Under the major parties whether it was LNP or Labor Federally, or Labor in State, our lives have got a lot harder. We should be the luckiest country in the world with the resources that we have, yet we have gone backwards under these major parties. Give us a go, seriously, how much more can we afford to lose?

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Dale Last
LNP Candidate For Burdekin

1:

No matter whether you live in Middlemount, Giru or anywhere in between, for the past ten years I have listened and taken up the fight for issues that matter to constituents and my hope is to continue to do that in the future. In regional areas we have to fight tooth and nail to secure our fair share and that means having a strong voice to advocate for safer roads, better access to health services and more opportunities for our next generation.
 
2:

Knowing that I have been a strong voice for the Burdekin on issues that matter most will be an honour I will carry with me for years to come. Seeing our netball players competing on new courts, knowing that patients with time-critical health issues are going to get the CT they need at the Ayr Hospital and seeing our firefighters able to train at their own station will be achievements I know this community will be able to be proud of.

3:

The importance of regional newspapers has been emphasised in recent years, particularly in areas of rural and regional Queensland that don’t have reliable access to internet or telecommunications. There is no other place to find out what is happening in the community, to read about the achievements of our best and brightest or to find out who won our local sporting matches. As the State Member, local newspapers are imperative in sharing information about community safety or new legislation.
 
4:

Every Queenslander placing their vote over the past couple of weeks and on Saturday will know exactly what is impacting them the most right now, whether it’s costs of living, crime, housing or accessing health services. These issues are not new and The LNP has outlined a plan and commitments to improve our health services, increase housing, address youth crime and ease cost of living. 

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Anne Baker
Labor Candidate For Burdekin

1:

After 17 years successfully putting my heart and soul into representing the Isaac region in local government, the last 12 of those as Mayor of Isaac bringing in over $400M of funding to the region, I understand how the system works and I feel like I can do better for Burdekin. I am ready to stand up for local working families, businesses, agriculture, mining, construction and regional communities. The Burdekin electorate needs a voice that will be heard by State Government.   
 
 
2:
 
I will be remembered for securing $157M in fully committed roads funding as just a candidate, the most funding for roads seen in the last eight years of current representation. I can do so much more if elected, this is just the start.

3:
 
Papers are integral to regional communities and play multiple roles . Newspapers are the glue that connect a community, from news, to birth and engagement notices, real estate, classifieds, social events, sports and more.    
 
4:
 
I would say, please consider voting for me as the person, Anne Baker, as I am the one that will represent you. I have a proven track record and I will work hard for the electorate. 

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Andrew Elborne
One Nation Candidate For Burdekin

1:

There is no better school in the world than travel and life experience, so if you want real solutions to the issues of today you need a new set of eyes and minds on the job and not career politicians that have not been able to fix the issue in the last 10 years without more rights removing legislation.
 
2:

When we fix the money wasting renewable problem we can then concentrate on using the money to fix the local issues, simplifying and removing unnecessary and obtuse legislation that only serves to chain up and hinder the working families of the community - the community safety bill for instance, and its blatant discrimination against farmers and sporting gun owners.
 
3:

The local newspapers play a huge role in regional communities, just as long as they stay a-political and give every party the same respect and time to give their stance on issues. They should be owned by the communities as well and not oversees interests.

4:
 
I would say honestly I am not doing this as a job, I have stood on the side line praying for the government to do the right thing and represent the people, but have come to the realisation that the big parties are now so entrenched with party politics, meaning following overseas influence, that they have forgotten how they got elected and that is by the people, so it’s time someone who is only interested in people politics steps up.

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Amanda Camm
LNP Candidate For Whitsunday

1:

I have worked extremely hard over the last four years listening to the community and advocating for our region.  It is frustrating representing from opposition. However, I proudly stood up for the women of Mackay & Whitsundays during the Obstetrics & Gynaecology and DNA Lab Queensland Health failures. I have continually called out the Government for poor consultation or stalling on projects like Shute Harbour Road or Hamilton Plains. Sometimes it’s resulted in a win with work commencing.
 

2:

I hope my personal legacy as an MP will be one who listens, advocates and delivers for the community. I have been listening and advocating to a government that has refused to listen for the last four years. My first focus will be on delivering projects for our region that have sat idle under this Labor government. The main ones will be Mackay Bucasia Road in the southern part of the electorate and Hamilton Plains in the North and delivering a Shute Bay Boat Ramp.

3:

Local newspapers are vital to keeping communities connected. People can find State and National news through other mediums, but they’ll never have the same amount of local content as a local paper. I think everyone felt the loss of local papers when many closed during COVID. It plays an important role in connecting our community, informing, celebrating and communicating what matters.
 
4:

I would ask if they are better off now than they were 10 years ago under this Labor Government? The reality is, that currently in Queensland only the LNP or Labor can win enough seats to form government. Whilst the Labor Government has spent the last 10 not delivering projects on time or on budget and with no consultation or transparency, the LNP has a plan to fix housing, crime, the health system and cost of living issues.

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Every year on January 26 the Whitsunday Regional Council Australia Day Awards celebrate the outstanding achievements and contributions of individuals and organisations across our region.
 
Nominations for the 2025 Whitsunday Regional Council Australia Day Awards are now officially open! These awards are an incredible way for us as a community to recognise the outstanding contributions of individuals and groups who go above and beyond to make the Whitsundays such a special place to live.
 
Each year, these awards honour people from all walks of life—our dedicated volunteers, committed educators, passionate community workers, and even our local sporting heroes.
 
Whether it's someone who has made a difference through a lifetime of service or someone who’s made an impact through a project in the last year, these awards offer the chance to say a heartfelt "thank you" for their efforts.
 
We all know someone in our community who quietly works behind the scenes without expecting recognition. These are the people we want to celebrate—the ones who make a real difference in the lives of others.
 
It could be the coach who devotes countless hours to mentoring young athletes, the volunteer who consistently gives their time to help those in need, or the local business owner who always goes above and beyond to support community causes.
 
By taking the time to nominate someone, you’re not only acknowledging their efforts, but you’re also encouraging them to continue making a positive impact, knowing their work doesn’t go unnoticed.
 
We have several categories available, including Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, and Senior and Junor Sports, so there’s a way to highlight every type of contribution.
 
If you know someone who deserves to be celebrated for their contributions, I strongly urge you to submit a nomination. It’s easy to do, and nominations are open until Friday, December 6. You can find all the details on the Your Say Whitsunday page on our website or by dropping into one of our Customer Service Centres in Cannonvale, Proserpine, Bowen or Collinsville and filling out a hard copy form.
 
Let’s take this opportunity to shine a light on the people who make the Whitsundays a better, stronger, and more vibrant place for us all. I look forward to seeing many worthy nominations and celebrating with our incredible community on Australia Day 2025.
 
Together, let’s show our appreciation for those who are making a difference, one good deed at a time.
 
Ry Collins
Mayor of Whitsunday Regional Council

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