Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Hundreds of inspiring women came together at the MECC to celebrate the Resource Industry Network International Women’s Day Business Lunch, with nearly 600 people filling the room for one of the region’s most uplifting events of the year. Leaders, professionals and community members gathered to share stories, celebrate achievements and champion the strength and influence of women across the region. A powerful keynote address and engaging panel discussion sparked thoughtful conversations around leadership, resilience and opportunity. The atmosphere was vibrant and empowering, with many describing the event as both motivating and memorable. Turn to pages 14-15 to see some of the incredible women and men who helped make the day so special. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Offered to the market for the very first time in 65
years, this much-loved family home has been in
the care of its original owner since 1961. Extended
over the years to grow with the family, it now offers
a versatile layout that includes a downstairs rumpus
room and patio, generous block size, and room to
move that is seldom found in the suburbs. Whether
you are looking for a comfortable home to make
your own or a strong investment with a rental
appraisal of $650-$670 per week, this property is a
rare find.
Whitsunday local Jure Portelli has made history as the first ever Australian to be selected for the incredibly prestigious Honda Racing School Suzuka Formula Class. At just 17 years old, she is also the only female driver to be selected for the 2026 intake. This incredible opportunity only seeks out the top racing talent and has launched careers of Indy 500 and Formula 1 drivers. Jure managed to beat fierce competition, securing her place in the advanced course against only a few dozen of the most talented up and coming drivers in the world. This wonderful achievement is making the region incredibly proud as we eagerly anticipate the next stages of her undoubtedly fruitful career. Local Talent Makes History Jure Portelli Becomes First Australian at Honda Racing School Suzuka North Queensland is celebrating a remarkable achievement in the world of motorsport. Seventeen-year-old Jure Portelli has made history as the first Australian ever selected for the prestigious Honda Racing School Suzuka Formula Class. Even more inspiring, she is the only female driver in this year’s intake. The Honda Racing School in Japan is known worldwide for nurturing some of the best young racing talent. Led by Indy 500 winner Takuma Sato, the program has helped launch careers like that of Formula 1 driver Yuki Tsunoda. For Jure, this opportunity follows a tough competition against 30 drivers from across the globe, which included two days of intensive testing. Only 10 made it to the next stage, and after further trials, Jure secured her place in the advanced course. This achievement reflects not just Jure’s skill, but her dedication and versatility. She has honed her driving across many disciplines—from endurance racing and rally to training with the Ferrari Driver Academy. Her journey began in local karting, and in just five years she has reached the world stage. To take this next big step, Jure will be relocating to Japan to complete her training. This comes with considerable costs for travel, living, and coaching. As a grassroots racer supported primarily by her father, who also serves as her mechanic, Jure is now calling on the local community for sponsorship and donations to help make this dream a reality. Her story is one of passion, family support, and sheer determination. It’s a proud moment for North Queensland and a wonderful example of what young people from our region can achieve with the right support. Let’s rally behind Jure Portelli as she races toward an exciting future, representing our community on the international stage. Captions Photo supplied
Set across five beautifully landscaped acres, this fully fenced property offers a peaceful, nature-filled retreat where established gardens, fruit trees, and quiet spaces invite you to slow down and take a deep breath. With a reliable year-round dam, bore, and town water, the grounds remain lush and thriving in every season.A low-set brick verandah home sits at the heart of the property, wrapped in a full-length verandah that’s perfect for morning coffees, evening sunsets, and soaking up the surrounding greenery. The home features three bedrooms and one bathroom, offering relaxed country living with timeless appeal.Wander through the property to discover beautiful “secret garden” gems tucked among mature plantings and fruit trees, all supported by a sunken two-year-old Grundfos bore pump feeding approximately 50 taps throughout the gardens.Practicality blends seamlessly with lifestyle, with a threecar shed, an additional powered lock-up bay, and a separate three-bay work shed complete with water and power, ideal for hobbies, storage, or rural pursuits.Located in Midge Point, in the Whitsundays, the property enjoys close proximity to local amenities, including a tavern, post office, and a council-built boat ramp, which is perfect for fishing and boating enthusiasts. Whitsunday Coast Airport is approximately 15 minutes away, Proserpine is just 20 minutes for shopping and dining, and Airlie Beach is an easy 40-minute drive.This truly is a special lifestyle property and must be seen to be fully appreciated. This will be sold.
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