At The 2025 Mackay Family Carnival! The Mackay Showgrounds came alive last weekend as families flocked to enjoy the 2025 Mackay Family Carnival — a vibrant celebration of rides, lights, and laughter that ran from September 24 to October 5. Over twelve days, the Showgrounds transformed into a wonderland of colour and excitement, offering everything from thrilling rides and classic showbags to sizzling food stalls and crowd-favourite Pluto Pups. Visitors of all ages immersed themselves in themed
Read the full storyThat Place Mackay hosted a successful Open Day for families and the community last Saturday, 20th September, offering a first-hand look at the local disability service provider’s programs and facilities. Founded by local fathers Steve and Tim, who both have children with disabilities, That Place Mackay provides after-hours activities and safe, inclusive spaces for young people in the region. Free Saturday morning sessions allow participants of all ages and abilities to enjoy games, art, c
Read the full storyMissing Man Brett Breeze Has Been Missing From Bowen For Six Weeks More than six weeks after Brett Breeze was last seen, his family is still searching for answers — and holding on to hope. The Bowen man, 49, vanished on Tuesday, 19 August, shortly after presenting to Bowen Hospital for treatment relating to his mental health. He was due to be transferred to Mackay Base Hospital the following day, but never arrived. Despite extensive search efforts by police, SES volunteers, and professional tr
Read the full storyWhat to See, Do And Explore Hamilton Island boasts an exceptional variety of activities and experiences, offering something for every kind of traveller. Whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure, nature, luxury, or culture, this tropical gem in the heart of the Whitsundays delivers unforgettable moments at every turn. Visitors can indulge in over 60 activities and tours, unwind in two luxurious day spas, dine at more than 20 restaurants and cafés, and explore the vibrant 300+ berth marina. F
Read the full storyHamilton Island With its sun-drenched beaches, gently swaying palms, and crystal-clear turquoise waters, Hamilton Island is widely regarded as one of the crown jewels of the Whitsundays. Nestled in the heart of the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, this tropical sanctuary offers an idyllic escape where barefoot luxury meets outdoor adventure, all set against a backdrop of breathtaking natural beauty that can be enjoyed throughout the year. Whether you're planning a romantic
Read the full storyBig thanks to the wonderful individuals keeping the youngsters of the community safe as they cross our busy and wet roads. All parents, guardians and bus drivers alike would like to extend a heartfelt thank-you to Kym Blackburn and the entire Lollipop Team for their unwavering dedication and service to the community. Every morning and afternoon, they work tirelessly to ensure the safety of our children as they cross the bustling streets, allowing them to reach school and home without worry. The
Read the full storyJust 13 months young and immaculately presented, this
GJ Gardner-built Hamptons-style duplex is a standout
investment or lifestyle opportunity. Set on ONE title, both
sides feature a well-designed three-bedroom, twobathroom
layout with upgraded internal finishes that
deliver a modern, coastal feel throughout.
Stone bench tops, floor-to-ceiling tiles, built-in robes,
plus air conditioning throughout.
Whether you’re looking to live in one and rent the other,
lease both for double the income, or secure a quality
asset in a growing area, this property ticks all the boxes.
Investor Alert:
1a - rented at $800pw till August 2026
1 - currently vacant - appraisal at $850-$900pw
Potential gross $88,000 annually
Property Highlights:
• Double lock-up garages for each unit
• Landscaped gardens plus fencing
• Excellent location close to shops, public transport, and
essential amenities
• Council rates approx $7,000 annually (both sides)
• Total insurance annually approx $7,000
• Solar – 12 panels on each side
With demand for quality rentals remaining strong and
the flexibility to adapt to your needs over time, this is
smart buying in a central location and quality estate.
October 9, 2025
Meals on Wheels Proserpine is calling for community support, with an urgent need for volunteers to help deliver and cook meals and help those in need. At the organisation’s Annual General Meeting held in late September the ongoing shortage of volunteers was highlighted as a major concern. Meals on Wheels Proserpine is currently seeking kitchen volunteers, delivery drivers, and people interested in helping to organise fundraising initiatives. The service provides nutritious meals and social co
Read the full storyOctober 9, 2025
The Queensland Fire Department (QFD) have imposed a local fire ban for residents in the Whitsunday Local Government Areas. The fire ban was placed from 12:01am on Wednesday 8 October. The current conditions are perfect for bushfires to ignite and spread quickly. Under a local fire ban all open fires are prohibited and all Permits to Light Fire which have been issued in the designated areas have been suspended for the duration of the ban. Power tools may be used during a local fire ban however
Read the full storyOctober 9, 2025
The 2025 Ramped Up Whitsundays hosted by The Rumble was an extraordinary success. The two-day skateboarding competition brought a real excitement to the region, with the sport not having regular events. Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said last year’s inaugural Ramped Up event brought a real buzz to the Whitsundays and attracted competitors, families and spectators from across Queensland and interstate. “It delivered strong economic benefits for our local businesses and tourism o
Read the full storyOctober 9, 2025
It was a shorter than usual week at Proserpine Golf Club, with the course closed from late Sunday through Tuesday for greens renovations. Despite the interruption, conditions for the remainder of the week were beautifully dry, although blustery breezes made play a little more challenging than usual. Spirits were high, however, with plenty of laughs during the 3-Ball Ambrose held on Rugby League Grand Final Sunday. Thursday, October 2 The October Monthly Medal, sponsored by Loot Pay, saw some t
Read the full storyOctober 9, 2025
On Tuesday, we had two triples games. The winners in a close match were Bill Myers, Isobel Wheeler, and Margaret Wilson, who defeated Gordon Querro, Deb Rethcless, and Gavin Charles. In the other game, Karen Smith, S. Jones, and Ray Deal defeated Cliff Querro, Gary Smith, and Alby Vigar. The jackpot didn’t go off. Our ladies have commenced a monster raffle to help fund their trip to Tweed Heads at the end of the month for the State Pennant Finals. With over $1400 worth of prizes generously don
Read the full storyOctober 9, 2025
It was probably the biggest weekend of the year for the men, brilliantly arranged by Men’s President Bob McMahon. But before we get to the main event, let’s recap the week’s action. Tuesday Afternoon (30 Sept) saw 18 bowlers play out three very close games. Third place went to Carol Crosbie’s team with 16 points, second place to Tony Whitehorn’s team on 17 points, and the overall winners on 19 points were skipper Betty Whitehorn with strong support from the most improved new bowler, Mel Fennell
Read the full storySeptember 26, 2025
Ian Haug, guitarist for Australian band The Church, is set to bring his unmistakable sound to Mackay audiences this October as part of the much-anticipated Legends on the Lawn concert series. Haug, who joined the band 13 years ago, reflected on his long-standing connection to North Queensland. “I’ve been Mackay many times over the years with my old band Powderfinger… we used to come there all the time and play. I love North Queensland,” he said. While relatively new to The Church, Haug d
Read the full storyOctober 2, 2025
The Whitsunday Leisure Activity Centre have excitingly unveiled a new initiative titled, Connecting Community Through Art to foster creativity and wellbeing among participants. Since 1976, the ageing and disability activities centre has provided vital support and engaging programs for the Whitsunday Shire, and Whitsunday Leisure Activity Centre’s Chief Executive, Jayne Milne hopes this new community development project will continue enriching the lives of locals. “The artwork created by our pa
Read the full storyOctober 2, 2025
Monique van Tulder’s bestselling book may have started at her kitchen bench in Shute Harbour, but today, it’s putting the Whitsundays on the national stage. “I wrote the first draft at the kitchen bench in Shute Harbour,” said Monique. “And now I’m on TV talking about Grown Up’s Gap Years, travel, and the region that opens my book’s first chapter.” Monique’s tourism roots in the region stretch back to 1988, when she began her career as Marketing Assistant at Whitsunday Rent A Yacht, following
Read the full storyOctober 2, 2025
Amped Up Youth Music Initiative is a community-led program with a clear purpose—empowering young people through music and performance. Operating across the Whitsundays, Amped Up! creates opportunities for youth aged 5 to 21 to build confidence, showcase their abilities, and connect with others in a safe and encouraging space. Driven by a passion for youth wellbeing and suicide prevention, the program is much more than a performance outlet. It represents a movement that values creativity, resil
Read the full storySeptember 26, 2025
For A Celebration Of The World’s Greatest One Hit Wonders! From the award-winning creators of Golden and Lovely Day comes a brand-new music experience that will have audiences singing along from start to finish. Wonder celebrates the greatest one hit wonders of all time, brought to life by three of Australia’s finest performers, country music star Brooke Schubert (The Voice Australia, Brisbane Lord Mayor’s Christmas Carols), theatre icon Marcus Corowa (Beautiful: The Carole King Musical,
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