By Amanda Wright Amidst the flurry of campaign posters and eager constituents, three distinct figures emerge, each carrying a story as colourful as a Shoal Point sunset, each vying to be our region’s next Mayor. First in the lineup is Greg Williamson, a name familiar to many, not just for his tenure as Mayor but for his roots deeply embedded in Mackay's community. Yet, few know of his formative years spent amidst the disciplined ranks of the Air Force cadets. It was there, under the wing of mili
Read the full storyAfter a sold-out event last year, Legends On The Lawn returns in 2024 with an iconic all-Australian line-up. Featuring ICEHOUSE, Jet, Jon Stevens, Pete Murray, Baby Animals, 1927 and Bachelor Girl, the one-day festival is back in June and by all reports, it is guaranteed to sell out early! Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson said after the success of the 2023 Legends On The Lawn it was fantastic to see such huge names stepping out once more for the 2024 event. “With Australian music royalty ICEHOUSE,
Read the full storyBy Amanda Wright Last weekend, the Zonta Club of Mackay Inc. hosted its annual International Women’s Day luncheon to celebrate and recognise girls and women worldwide. Club President Fiona Koutlis said the lunch celebrates the strides that have already been made towards equality and a life where women can live free from discrimination and violence. “Where women can live life to its fullest,” she added. The UN Women International Women’s Day theme for 2024 is ‘Count her In: Invest in Women. Accel
Read the full storyMackay is the latest Queensland city to gain a State Development Area (SDA), with the declaration to unlock land for new industrial development and more jobs. The Queensland Government has declared a State Development Area across two sites, at Racecourse Mill and Rosella. The SDA sets aside industrial land to support industry economic diversification, including bioenergy and biofood production. A $4 million Bioenergy Fund opened late last month, on the 29th February 2024. Assistant Ministe
Read the full storyNestled in the heart of Habana, this residence represents the
best of modern Australian living. This immaculate property,
set in a coveted acreage location offers a seamless blend of
sophistication, style, and charm, enveloped in privacy and
functionality.
Designed with a discerning lifestyle in mind, the tranquil
residence estate presents a modern elegance that meets
family practicality. Near the top of a serene road and boasting
an elevated allotment the home is adorned with luxury
finishes. The interiors are thoughtfully zoned, leading to the
outdoor entertainment areas, including an inground pool, an
inviting fire pit, and an entertaining deck.
Features of this magnificent property includes:
- All 5 bedrooms are generous in size and are bathed in
natural light
- Main bathroom with a built in bath separate shower
- Main bedroom complete with ensuite and walk in wardrobe
- Multiple living areas including a media room with blackout
curtains
- Air conditioning throughout the home
- High end kitchen with walk in pantry, stone benchtops,
pendant lighting and an abundance of storage
- Huge outdoor deck with built in BBQ that overlooks the
countryside and pool area
- Sparkling inground swimming pool
- Concrete firepit area looking straight into the pool
- Bushland backdrop
- Large shed with two roller doors and mezzanine floor
- Laundry with storage with floor to ceiling cabinetry
- Double lock up garage
- 2 x 25,000L rainwater tanks
- Bore
- 1.02 hectares
Location is paramount, and this home is perfectly situated to
enjoy the tranquillity of the countryside while still benefiting
from the convenience of coastal living. A mere 20 minutes’
drive from Mackays CBD, pristine beaches, and top-tier
schools, the balance of rural and urban is mastered here.
Set on nearly 1.02 hectares of country land, this estate offers
a plethora of possibilities, from self-sustainability to a homebased
business, and includes abundant storage for vehicles
and equipment.
To organise a viewing or for more information, please contact
Mick McLeod on 0408 777 971 or Ryan Patton on 0435 825 323.
Despite the weekend’s weather challenges the Cut Out Party in Proserpine was a huge success. Close to 200 people gathered at the Proserpine Showgrounds to celebrate the sugar industry which is marking its third year. This time around the event supported the Royal Flying Doctors Service. As of the time of going to print, there was no official number announced but organisers are expecting funds raised to be upwards of last years’ $38,000. “It’s been a real community effort; you don’t know wh
Read the full storySarah Watson From Lightning Comms Star sign: Capricorn Fav Colour: Green Fav holiday destination: Fiji Fav quote: Life’s too short to drink bad wine. Describe your personality in three words: Focused, loyal, compassionate Sarah Watson is the shining force behind Lightning Comms, a business she runs alongside her husband. She takes on a multitude of roles, including office manager, all-rounder and helping hand on site when needed. The businesses specialises in information and communications tec
Read the full storyCoral Sea Resort was transformed into a sea of purple and white on Sunday when around 120 people celebrated International Women’s Day with the Zonta Club of the Whitsundays. The guests were greeted to a glass of sparkles on arrival and enjoyed a three-course meal that set the stage for a sensational afternoon. At the event the young and talented Scarlet Foti was given recognition for her astonishing work. At just 17 she has developed a self-guided book for neurodivergent children and has an
Read the full storyWith friendships made over the pool table, Anchor Bar tattoos seen around town and people recommending the ‘retreat from the main-street’ as you board a plane from Brisbane – it is easy to see how this iconic local venue has become both a meaningful and memorable place for many people over the years. Opening its doors 10 years ago, Anchor Bar came to life when couple Josh Knutson and Leah McMillan saw an ad in the local newspaper and jumped at the opportunity to run their own place. The pair
Read the full storyPerfectly situated in the tranquil cul-de-sac of Jessamine Close, Cannonvale, this contemporary residence encapsulates modern living, thoughtfully designed to cater to those seeking the allure of a spacious, single-level floor plan and a low-maintenance yard.
The award-winning property can effortlessly accommodate the needs of singles, couples or even those with a young family.
• 3 bedrooms, master with walk-in robe & luxurious ensuite
• Fully fenced and landscaped rear yard
• No neighbours immediately adjoining the backyard
Are you looking for the peaceful, tranquil, rural lifestyle with
an immaculate fully renovated Queenslander/Federation
style home, showcased in the middle of manicured lawns
and gardens with views, not only of the sixty acres of pristine
pastures, but rural and mountainous scenery as far as your
eyes can see.
Some of the many features of the property includes;
- The crafted high ceilings in the home make it look very
stylish and adds to the statesman like appeal.
- The large, very serviceable kitchen has a walk-in pantry,
plenty of cupboard and bench space and a servery into the
dining room. A large commercial looking oven and cook top
adds to the quality fittings throughout the home.
- A large solid two bay shed and carport with adjoining
workshop.
- Fully stock proof fences and Cattle yards.
- As new water pump run by solar.
Escape to the hinterland, in the lushest of settings with this beautiful
home on 5 acres of land, framed by forest, and offering peaceful,
and private living amongst nature.
Across a single level is a well-designed family-friendly floor plan,
the home comprises four bedrooms, office, two bathrooms, quality
kitchen, 2 separate indoor living areas, 3 outdoor entertainment
areas, and a double carport.
Most importantly a 19 x 9 m shed with a 16 x 6 m awning of 270m2
under roof.
• 45 minutes west of thriving Mackay, this diverse farm
offers mainly tropical pastures.
• Approx. 59 acres of cane production area.
• Surface water abundantly provided from permanent natural
springs & 3 dams.
• Structural improvements include a stylish lowset brick home,
machinery shed & stockyards.
• Situated in the 60-80 inch/annum rainfall zone.
Perfectly situated in the tranquil cul-de-sac of Jessamine Close, Cannonvale, this contemporary residence encapsulates modern living, thoughtfully designed to cater to those seeking the allure of a spacious, single-level floor plan and a low-maintenance yard.
The award-winning property can effortlessly accommodate the needs of singles, couples or even those with a young family.
• 3 bedrooms, master with walk-in robe & luxurious ensuite
• Fully fenced and landscaped rear yard
• No neighbours immediately adjoining the backyard
March 14, 2024
The third Whitsunday Local Government Candidate Forum was hosted by Bowen Chamber of Commerce on Monday night and held at the Larrikin Hotel in Bowen with an audience of 85 in attendance. All four Mayoral Candidates, Peter Hood, Richard Evans, Ry Collins and Phil Batty, were present on the evening alongside the Division 6 Councillor Candidates, John Finlay and David Paddon. Three questions were given from Bowen Chamber of Commerce and then three additional questions taken from the floor. Pres
Read the full storyMarch 14, 2024
Hi Everyone, As the weather cools down, the local event scene certainly heats up! This Sunday, I called in at three local events and was reminded once again how vibrant our community is. Firstly, the International Women’s Day celebrations held by the Zonta Club of the Whitsundays at Coral Sea Resort, then the Whitsunday Chef’s Lunch at Eastwoods and finally the 10-year birthday bash at Anchor Bar. Also taking place over the weekend was the annual Cut Out Party, Collinsville Sea of Pink and a
Read the full storyMarch 14, 2024
Full name: Mila Westley Age: 11 Name: Mila Westley Grade/Age: Year 6 / 11 years old Sports: Proserpine District - Soccer, Whitsunday District - Touch Football, Netball and Basketball, Capricornia Region - AFL Who inspired you to start playing sport? My Mum and Dad have always encouraged me to try my best at everything, including sport. Without their support there is no way I would be able to have a go at so many different things. Can you tell us about a memorable moment or achievement in you
Read the full storyMarch 14, 2024
Tuesday afternoon bowls went ahead and skipper Andy McDougall confirmed his great skills with a fantastic performance inspiring his lead Robin Brown, and Arthur McManus ably assisted his team performance. Wednesday afternoon's Jackpot Bowls had a huge roll up under the guidance of Mervyn Stewart who saw four teams playing for the prizes on offer and once again it was skipper Warren Mills and Lu Rogan whom ably assisted and Alan Pershouse. The Jackpot wasn't won and will rise next week. However
Read the full storyMarch 14, 2024
We had a great crowd attend our barefoot bowls on Friday night. Everyone enjoyed themselves and I am sure improved their skills by the end of the night. Our next night will be Friday 22 March. Our club competition has begun. Results so far: Men’s A singles K Jewell defeated M Drummond. Ladies Crooked Jack resulted in Deb Retchless defeated Teresa Willshire, Robyn Stitt defeated Gwenda Lydom and Penny Warren defeated Denise Wallace. Ladies Fours will be played this Sunday morning and the Final S
Read the full storyFebruary 9, 2024
Unlock a world of new passions and opportunities for both adults and children alike at Mackay's ultimate sport and recreation event—the JET Group Mackay Sport and Rec Expo! With over 100 clubs gathered under one roof, this expo is your one-stop destination to explore a vast array of sports and activities. Mayor Greg Williamson invites attendees to dive into the action-packed day, featuring interactive booths, active zone demonstrations, and thrilling competitions. From parents seeking new spo
Read the full storyMarch 14, 2024
Melbourne’s own Creedence Clearwater Revival tribute band is checking into Airlie Beach for a mammoth weekend of non-stop Creedence, which will leave us cross tie walking. Ramble Tamble was born in 1989, from a need to celebrate the unforgettable beats of Creedence Clearwater Revival. Still led by the three who started the band, Ramble Tamble encompasses the values that fuelled Creedence Clearwater Revival during their hay day. Known for their impeccable stage presence, unbelievable recreat
Read the full storyMarch 14, 2024
The Easter Bunny is about to come hopping through our region with both children and chocolate-loving adults excited for his arrival. To celebrate the Easter weekend, two of our favourite family-friendly locals are putting on special events which are sure to entertain the kids while giving the parents time to relax with a nice cool bevvy. Reef Gateway Hotel has created a special event – the Easter Family Fun Weekend which is due to take place on Saturday 30 and Sunday 31 March. There will be f
Read the full storyFebruary 29, 2024
Do you want to feel the electricity? Do you want to feel the power? Do you want a heart-stopping, head-banging performance? Then make sure you go to see Thunderstruck, an AC/DC tribute band, at the Airlie Beach Hotel. With a collective history spanning over 30 years, this AC/DC tribute show is bringing big beats and bigger energy for the metal heads of the Airlie Beach coast. Often branded as one of the most authentic and accurate recreations of the iconic rockers, Thunderstruck is not a
Read the full story