Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Beau-Lea Miller brings more than 25 years of real estate experience to Taylors Property Specialists, with a career spanning property management, residential sales, agency ownership, business operations, technology and team leadership. Starting her real estate career at 17, Beau-Lea developed an early passion for property management and the important role an agency plays in protecting its clients’ investments. She later worked in the real estate technology sector, training agencies, helping establish property management departments and supporting teams to improve their systems and service delivery. Beau-Lea went on to establish and lead her own successful independent agency, Beautique Realty, giving her firsthand experience across property management, sales, business development, compliance, customer service and team leadership. More recently, she worked across Queensland and the Northern Territory in a state real estate operations role with Elders Real Estate. She is also recognised for helping real estate businesses strengthen their systems, improve team performance and adopt technology and artificial intelligence in practical and responsible ways. At Taylors Property Specialists, Beau-Lea is focused on driving operational excellence and sustainable growth across the business. Her role is centred on strengthening systems, developing people, improving service delivery and creating a high-performing business that consistently rewards its clients through stronger outcomes, greater efficiency and long-term value. Her approach combines honesty, accountability, communication and personal service with strong systems, clear processes and modern innovation. For Beau-Lea, successful real estate is about building a business that performs well, supports its people and gives clients confidence that their property and investment goals are in capable hands.
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Contributed with thanks by Whitsundays Counselling and Support. Calling all passionate locals looking to make a difference! Fresh off the back of being named the Community Champion at the 2026 Whitsunday Business Awards, Whitsunday Counselling and Support (WCS) is turning its attention to the future and wants the community to help shape it. The organisation will hold its Annual General Meeting on Wednesday, 18 November at the WCS office in Cannonvale and is calling for local people to join the Management Committee. Backed by more than three decades of supporting vulnerable members of the community, WCS is committed to continuing its meaningful work, empowering people and advocating for a region where everyone feels safe, respected and free from violence. What began as a single refuge opened in Cannonvale in 1990 by a group of local women is now the only free service funded to respond to domestic, family and sexual violence across almost 24,000 square kilometres, from Collinsville to Hamilton Island. Chief Executive Officer Kirsty Gillett says the organisation is stepping into an exciting new chapter. “We’ve been part of this community for more than 35 years and we’re proud of what that has meant for the people we support. Now we’re building on those foundations so we can keep showing up for the people who need us,” says Kirsty. That new chapter has been taking shape behind the scenes throughout the past year with staff from all three sites coming together to help build the 2026-2030 Strategic Plan around five clear pillars. Those priorities are investing in its people and strengthening the foundations as one united team, to be known and trusted across the region and reach more of the people who need it. Alongside the Strategic Plan comes a new organisational structure and a refreshed brand, with a confident new look, centred on empowerment, advocacy and hope. “When someone reaches out on the hardest day of their life, they need to know exactly who we are and that they can trust us. That’s what this rebrand is about,” says Kirsty. With a clear plan in place, WCS is now looking for fresh, committed Management Committee members. The organisation is looking for people who bring a diversity of knowledge to the table and a genuine social conscience. WCS is particularly keen to hear from people with experience or expertise in governance and strategic leadership, data analysis and outcome measurement, finance or accounting, human resources, domestic and family violence advocacy, First Nations leadership, influence and perspectives, and government relations and influence at a local, state, or federal level. “Our committee plays a vital role in steering the organisation and we are looking for skilled individuals with a genuine care for this community,” says Kirsty. Serving on the committee is a chance to help steer a respected organisation that supports some of the most vulnerable people in our region. The AGM is also an opportunity to reflect on the year’s achievements, receive the audited financial statements, and elect the Management Committee for the year ahead. All members and supporters are welcome to attend. “Our community has always stood behind us, and now this is an invitation to stand with us as we write the next chapter together,” says Kirsty. Anyone interested in nominating, or wanting a copy of the AGM agenda, is encouraged to contact WCS before the meeting.
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If you're in need of a playful, loving, and fun sidekick who will love you to bits, then look no further; Sammy is all you need. Sammy is three months old and a mixed breed. He is full of energy and affection, constantly wiggling and cuddling his way around everyone. Sammy is super excited about new faces and new experiences, warming to dogs, people, and cats within minutes. Sammy would love an active family, as his medium to high energy will put everyone on their feet. He gets the zoomies and needs plenty of play time and walking. But after the energy bursts, he settles beautifully. Sammy will best suit a home with a big yard and a fence that is at least 4ft, as he will grow into a big boy. This beautiful puppy will as well need a family who is willing to train him on the lead. If Sammy sounds like your next adventure companion, message Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue with your name, phone number and “Sammy” to begin the adoption process.
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Around 85 locals gathered for WSPN’s monthly BBQ Breakfast, where a heartfelt talk from guest speaker “Keg” Alister Sawers got the crowd talking and listening to one another. A registered builder with many years in the industry, Keg has worked on remote stations and major construction projects across Australia, including resort construction on Hamilton Island. Drawing on that experience, he shared his approach to managing stress and navigating life’s challenges, encouraging those gathered to join the conversation. “A huge thank you to our guest speaker Alister "Keg", whose talk was one of the best we've heard at the BBQs,” WSPN shared following the event. “Keg spoke from the heart, related to everyone in the crowd and kept the morning interactive.” The kindness continued after breakfast, when WSPN volunteers took the remaining catering to the beach to share with people sleeping rough. Red Emperor Constructions sponsored the morning, with regular food supporters Food From the Heart Airlie Beach and The Prickly Pineapple helping keep everyone fed. Photo Captions; Photo 1- WSPN’s October brekky attendees. Photo credit: Trish Jandt Photo 2- ‘Keg’ Alistair Sawers speaking to the morning crew. Photo supplied: WSPN
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April McEachern. Photo supplied: April McEachern
April McEachern has rolled through a busy October, skating 102 kilometres around Bowen and surpassing her $500 fundraising goal to support mental health research.
Taking part in the Black Dog Institute’s One Foot Forward challenge, April fitted skating around work and everyday commitments, clocking up kilometres at Queens Beach while encouraging people to start conversations about mental health.
She raised $528 that will be divvied out by the institute among various mental health services, more than doubling last year’s total of $209.
Reaching the finish brought a sense of accomplishment after a month that required some careful juggling between her work and social life balance.
“I did push it for time between work and life and everything in between,” April said.
But when asked whether the effort had been worth it, she had no hesitation.
“Always, I’ll do it again next year too,” April said.
Even the weather made her work for those final kilometres, with rain setting in just two days before the challenge ended. April watched for a break and headed out when she could.
“I literally had to pick a window because there's no rain right now, so I shot out the door,” April said.
Her regular route at Queens Beach covered roughly 4.2 kilometres a lap, taking her slightly beyond the original 100-kilometre target.
“I would have probably kept going had I had more time,” she said.
By Sharon Ashman
Have you ever found yourself thinking, “Here we go again”? Perhaps you keep worrying about the same things, react strongly during disagreements, struggle to say no to others, or repeatedly doubt your decisions. Even when you want things to be different, you may find yourself returning to familiar ways of thinking and behaving.
These experiences are more common than we might realise. Often, the difficulty is not a lack of motivation or effort. Over time, we may develop patterns that shape how we interpret situations, respond emotionally, and interact with others.
From an early age, we learn how to respond to the world around us. Family relationships, school experiences, friendships, and significant life events can shape our expectations of ourselves and others.
For example, someone who grew up feeling that mistakes were unacceptable may become highly self-critical as an adult. Another person who has experienced rejection may struggle to trust others or avoid situations where they feel vulnerable. These responses can develop for understandable reasons and may once have helped the person cope.
The difficulty arises when these familiar responses no longer serve us well. Avoiding uncomfortable situations may provide immediate relief, but it can also prevent us from developing confidence. Always putting others first may protect relationships in the short term, yet it can leave us feeling exhausted or resentful over time.
Recognising a pattern does not automatically mean we can change it. Our responses can become so familiar that they occur before we have had time to consider other options. Stress, fatigue and emotional pressure can make it even harder to respond differently.
That is why simply telling ourselves to stop worrying, be more confident, or think positively isn't always effective. Lasting change often begins with understanding what is happening beneath the surface.
We can start by noticing when a particular response occurs, what triggers it, what we tell ourselves about the situation and what happens afterwards. This helps us identify the connection between our thoughts, feelings, and behaviours.
Once we understand a pattern, we can start considering alternatives. Someone who automatically agrees to every request might practise setting a small boundary. A person
who avoids difficult conversations might learn to express their concerns more directly. Someone who interprets a mistake as failure might begin to see it as a chance to learn.
These changes take practice. Setbacks may occur, and familiar responses may return during stressful periods. Progress is not about getting everything right; it is about gradually developing greater awareness and flexibility in how we respond.
Psychological therapy can help people explore recurring difficulties, understand the experiences and beliefs that contribute to them, and develop more helpful ways of managing everyday challenges.
We cannot always change what has happened to us, and we cannot control every situation we encounter. However, we can recognise patterns that no longer help us and develop different ways to move forward.
Sometimes, the first step toward change isn't trying harder. It is understanding ourselves a little better.
Personal Transitions supports individuals, children and families to understand difficulties, build psychological wellbeing and work towards meaningful change., Visit Personaltransitions.com.au or contact Cristie on 0488 667 264 or Sharon on 0418 708 214.
Council has given Elementa Whitsundays the green light to build the Grand Marquee, a 350 guest capacity event space set to become the centrepiece of the venue.
The Grand Marquee will be positioned in between the luxury villas and directly behind the
venue's 74 Islands Distillery bar and rooftop area, completing the precinct as its crown jewel
with a wrap-around balcony offering guests uninterrupted views across Pioneer Bay and out
to the islands.
The new event space will open Elementa Whitsundays up to large scale weddings,
conferences, gala dinners and private functions — events that previously the region has had
limited capacity to host at this scale.
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the new event space would add another
option to Airlie Beach’s already strong visitor and events offering.
“Fresh from Airlie Beach being named Australia’s Top Small Tourism Town, it’s great to see our
visitor and events offering continuing to grow,” Mayor Collins said.
“Airlie Beach is already a popular destination for weddings, events and celebrations, and
having a diverse range of venues and experiences only adds to what we can offer.
“It’s another positive addition for Airlie Beach and another reason for people to choose the
Whitsundays for their next event or special occasion.”
Elementa Whitsundays Director Glenn Hitch welcomed the approval.
"This is a significant milestone for Elementa and for the region," Mr Hitch said.
"The Grand Marquee has been a long-held vision for us, and to see it approved means we can now deliver an event space that genuinely matches the beauty of the location.
"I'd like to sincerely thank Whitsunday Regional Council for their support throughout the
application process. Their backing of projects like this is what allows local tourism operators
to keep investing in the Whitsundays."
The announcement of the successful application accompanies the appointment of a new
dedicated Events Executive Caitlin Mcluskey who, with over 20 years experience in the events
industry, brings a wealth of knowledge and a shared vision to bring new and exciting events to
the venue. The Grand Marquee joins the venue's existing accommodation villas, 74 Islands Distillery and rooftop bar, further establishing Elementa Whitsundays as a destination for both visitors and the local community.
For event and weddings enquiries please contact bookings@74islandsdistillery.com
Major projects understandably attract most of the attention.
New community hubs, major roadworks and infrastructure that unlocks housing are important investments in the future of the Whitsundays.
But good communities are also shaped by hundreds of smaller improvements that people use every day.
At Dingo Beach, Council has rebuilt the swimming enclosure, renewed the foreshore playground and is adding an outdoor shower near the upgraded amenities.
Across Bowen, playgrounds and BBQ shelters are being renewed at Horseshoe Bay, Rose Bay, Hansen Park and the Front Beach, while exercise equipment at Queens Beach is also being upgraded.
Rotary Park in Proserpine has received a playground refresh, and ageing playground assets are being renewed in Collinsville, Scottville and Mt Coolon.
Across the region, Council’s parks renewal program has addressed more than 75 ageing or weather-damaged assets across 23 parks.
There is similar work happening across our road network, including the planned replacement of two ageing timber bridges on Kelsey Creek Road, an important connection for residents, agriculture and heavy vehicles.
Individually, these projects may not make front-page news.
But a safer playground, better public amenities, a renewed park or a more reliable local road can make a very real difference to the people who use them every day.
Building a better Whitsundays means delivering the major infrastructure our growing region needs while also continuing to improve the places and services that shape everyday life.
Infront Security combines a locally managed North Queensland team with the resources of a larger Queensland operation, providing hands-on oversight and responsive service across the Whitsundays.
The business aims to challenge expectations of regional security, demonstrating that local clients can expect the same professionalism and accountability available anywhere else.
Security now involves much more than having an officer onsite. Infront is seeing growing demand for stronger compliance, better reporting and technology that helps contractors identify and manage risk.
Officers also need sound judgement and communication skills, with customer service and situational awareness increasingly important to the role.
Workforce availability remains a regional challenge, making recruitment, training and local career pathways essential.
Over the past two years, Infront has focused on becoming an employer of choice within the local security industry.
Through improved retention, cross-training and development opportunities, the business has strengthened its ability to cover leave and illness while responding to new contracts and unexpected client needs.
That investment helps maintain consistent service, even when circumstances change at short notice.
Infront’s advice starts with looking after employees, who represent the business when its leaders are not there. Investing in staff and recognising their efforts helps build a reliable team.
Early, honest communication with employees and clients is equally important, particularly when problems arise.
The business also cautions against overpromising, with lasting relationships built by consistently delivering on commitments.
Chamber membership has helped Infront build relationships across the Whitsunday business community and better understand local developments.
Events bring the team into contact with businesses they might otherwise never meet, opening conversations that can lead to partnerships.
For Infront, those connections offer opportunities to learn from fellow business owners and support the region’s continued growth.
Tourism Whitsundays Board at the 2026 Tourism Awards.
Contributed with thanks by Tourism Whitsundays.
Tourism Whitsundays is pleased to welcome Kylie Forgione and Renae Trimble to our Board, bringing fresh perspectives and considerable industry experience to help guide the future of destination marketing for our region.
Kylie has called the Whitsundays home for more than 15 years and brings a strong understanding of our local community and the people who make our tourism industry what it is.
As Work, Study + Play Program Leader with Flight Centre Travel Academy, she works closely with tourism and hospitality operators to connect emerging talent with education, employment and career pathways.
Her experience provides valuable insight into workforce development and the opportunities to build a skilled, engaged and sustainable tourism workforce for the future.
“I’ve always believed the greatest strength of the Whitsundays is its people,” said Kylie.
“Joining the Tourism Whitsundays Board is an incredible opportunity to give back to the community and industry I’m so passionate about. I’m looking forward to bringing my experience, energy and perspective to the table, championing our tourism operators and working collaboratively to build a strong, sustainable future for the region we all love.”
Renae joins the Board representing the island seat, bringing more than 25 years of experience across hospitality, commercial strategy and customer engagement.
As Chief Operating Officer at Hamilton Island, she oversees a diverse portfolio of operations, while her previous senior leadership roles with the National Rugby League and Accor have given her extensive experience in commercial growth, digital and marketing.
The Whitsundays is an incredible part of Australia, and I’m thrilled to be joining the Tourism Whitsundays board at such an exciting time,” said Renae.
“I’m looking forward to working with my fellow board members, local operators and partners to build on the region’s strengths - from its extraordinary natural beauty to the experiences and hospitality that give visitors every reason to return.”
A strong and diverse Board brings valuable perspectives to the opportunities and challenges facing our industry and helps guide the strategic direction of Tourism Whitsundays.
Kylie and Renae bring complementary experience across workforce development, commercial strategy and tourism operations, strengthening the expertise at the Board table as we work to grow the destination’s profile and support the long-term success of our regional tourism industry.
The Whitsundays is a naturally iconic destination, but its ongoing success depends on the people, businesses and partnerships behind it.
Tourism Whitsundays look forward to working with both Kylie and Renae as we continue to build a resilient, sustainable tourism industry that delivers lasting benefits for our region.
Photo supplied: The Lott
A missed call on Saturday morning led a Whitsundays woman to discover she had won $1 million, enough to pay off her family’s mortgage.
The woman held Australia’s only division one winning entry in the Weekday Windfall draw on Friday 30th October. The following morning with her family, she spotted a text from The Lott and opened the app to check her ticket.
“I was very shocked,” the mystery millionaire told The Lott.
“I had my family with me and I was thinking, ‘Does that say what I think it does?’”
The family had already been thinking about moving, and the win gives them more room to decide where to go next.
“It will mean we won’t have a mortgage anymore,” she said.
“It will take the pressure off.”
The woman apparently regularly entered the Monday, Wednesday and Friday Weekday Windfall draws, proving persistence does pay off.
Reclaim the Night 2026. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville
Rain failed to dampen the community’s resolve as locals walked through Airlie Beach for the second annual Reclaim the Night march, calling for women to feel safe in their community after dark.
Hosted by Whitsundays Counselling and Support, the walk from the Fairy Tree to Shingley Beach brought together residents of all ages, local police and Mayor Ry Collins in solidarity against sexual violence.
Reclaim the Night began in the UK in the 1970s, with women taking to the streets to protest violence and demand the freedom to walk safely after dark.
Held during Queensland’s Sexual Violence Awareness Month, the Airlie Beach march highlighted the same rights, which Whitsundays Counselling and support domestic and family violence coordinator Charlotte said women should not have to fight for.
“We should feel comfortable and safe walking in the community,” she said.
Charlotte praised the turnout despite the wet weather. At the Fairy Tree speakers highlighted everyone’s right to feel safe, regardless of gender, before participants set off on 1.6-kilometre walk to Shingley beach.
The walk concluded with snacks and further speeches raising awareness of sexual violence.
With a Reclaim the Night march taking place in Bowen the previous evening, the event reflected a shared commitment to making the Whitsundays safer for everyone.
Riley McAlister and Michelle Bravford
Proserpine State High School Year 11 student Riley McAlister has flown a plane before driving a car on his own, completing his first solo flight in Townsville during the school holidays.
“When they left me by myself in the plane for the first time, I did feel a little bit nervous, but I felt more free,” Riley said.
“When I first took off, it was, wow, I’m flying a plane by myself.
“Before I’ve even got my Ps.”
The 16-year-old secured one of just eight places in a flying course through the Australian Air Force Cadets after applying for a second time late last year. The course combines aviation theory with practical flight training, preparing cadets to fly solo under the guidance of experienced instructors.
What began as an opportunity to try something new has grown into a passion for aviation, with Riley now hoping to become an Air Force pilot.
“I used to not have too much of an interest in aviation, but after this experience and once I got in, my knowledge and just willingness to learn more about it increased massively,” Riley said.
Riley’s prep began in late July or early August, taking weekend trips to Mackay to train alongside an instructor.
During the September school holidays, he travelled to Townsville for an intensive week of flying and independent study, working towards his first solo flight on the Friday.
With around 17½ hours of flying experience recorded in total, Riley said the training helped him feel ready to take the controls alone.
“By then, it was all in my head, and I knew what to do,” he said.
FLTLT (AAFC) Michelle Brayford, commanding officer of 110 Squadron and a senior teacher at Proserpine State High School, said she was “incredibly proud” of Riley’s first solo flight.
Brayford, who teaches maths, agriculture and digital technologies, said Riley competed against about 600 cadets for the scholarship and completed his flight training in his own time while keeping up with school.
“To do that, as well as juggle school and other external commitments that he has, it’s just such a credit to Riley and the committed person that he always is,” she said.
Riley joined the squadron at 12, just as he started high school. He, 4 years on, now helps Brayford run Friday night cadet sessions alongside another senior cadet.
“One thing that I pride 110 Squadron on with regards to the Air Force cadets is their leadership ability,” she said.
“Riley’s done that impeccably.”
Riley is saving to build up his flying hours locally and earn his pilot’s licence, with his years in cadets drawing him to the teamwork and shared sense of purpose he sees in the Air Force.
“I’m wanting to become a pilot in the Air Force, so hopefully that works out,” Riley said.
Local Whitsundays/East Coast Dingoes. Photos Supplied: Dingo Conservancy
Whitsunday Regional Council says no decision has been made to remove or destroy alleged dingoes frequenting the Cannonvale Transfer Station, following community concerns about the animals’ future.
The response follows an open letter from national group The Dingo Conservancy, which received a tip from the Whitsundays area alleging Council planned to euthanise the animals, which they categorised as “dingoes or wild dogs”.
The group questioned that description, arguing that the animals are dingoes whose ecological importance as native apex predators should not be overlooked, and calling for a non-lethal approach to managing the animals.
“Dingoes are our native apex predator, not an introduced pest species. Grouping them under the term ‘wild dogs’ erases their ecological importance and misleads the public,” said Secretary for the Dingo Conservancy Jo Samuel-King in a letter to Council.
“While protecting livestock and domestic pets on rural fringes is important, responsible land management should focus on non-lethal deterrence and co-existence rather than treating native dingoes as feral dogs or domestic strays.”
The Conservancy requests that Council releases available incident reports and risk assessments, consults relevant Traditional Owners and qualified dingo ecologists, and assesses each animal’s documented behaviour rather than its familiarity with people.
This recommended approach is supported by the Invasive Species Council’s July 2026 policy, which recognises dingoes’ ecological and cultural value and advocates for targeted management where harm occurs.
The group also calls for stronger education about the importance of never feeding dingoes, alongside carefully supervised humane deterrence, such as using loud noises, where experts consider it appropriate.
“Feeding and frequent and repeated close contact can encourage habituation and create safety concerns,” Jo stated in the letter.
“Familiarity should not, by itself, be treated as evidence of aggression.
“Each dingo should be judged on its actual behaviour.”
In its response, Council referred to the animals as “dingoes or wild dogs”, without confirming their identification. It said no decision had been made to remove or destroy them, and no public safety incidents had been reported to date.
“No immediate action is planned, and no decision has been made to remove or destroy the animals,” said Mayor of the Whitsundays Ry Collins.
“We acknowledge the community's concern for these animals, and the desire to see the situation managed responsibly and humanely.”
Council cited its obligations under Queensland’s Biosecurity Act 2014, which provides a framework to protect the state’s economy, environment and community from risks associated with pests, diseases and contaminants, when referring to wild dogs.
If the animals are recognised as dingoes, despite being native wildlife, dingoes outside national parks are classified as restricted invasive animals under the legislation. Queensland Government guidance requires reasonable and practical measures to minimise associated biosecurity risks.
“Council has obligations under Queensland's Biosecurity Act to manage potential risks and we will continue to assess the situation to consider the most appropriate way forward, balancing our responsibilities under the legislation with community safety,” said Mayor Ry Collins.
Council will keep monitoring their presence and the situation.
Photo source: Shutterstock
Warmer waters are bringing familiar signs of the approaching summer, with marine stinger nets and mysterious smells returning to the foreshore as crocodile sightings offer another reminder to take care along the coast.
November marks the beginning of the region’s recognised stinger season, when box jellyfish and the tiny Irukandji become a greater concern for those heading into the water.
Council has officially put up stinger nets at Boathaven and Cannonvale beaches, urging swimmers to stay within the designated areas and wear a stinger suit whenever they enter the water.
Box jellyfish are primarily found close to shore, while Irukandji can occur from coastal waters out to the outer reefs, according to local diver for the last 45 years and President of the Whitsundays Conservation Council Tony Fontes.
While the Stinger nets have been put up, Tony warned swimmers that stinger nets can be unreliable against Irukandji, with their coined sized bodies often drifting through the mesh.
“As a diver, I wear head to toe cover 12 months of the year when I’m going in the water,” he said.
“If they just happen to drift through the mesh without touching it, they’ll just continue drifting into the safe zone.”
For those strolling along Cannonvale’s foreshore, another seasonal arrival has been harder to ignore, with an unpleasant smell reported along the shoreline.
While some might suspect coral spawning, Tony attributes the recent odour to a naturally occurring bloom of algae known as Trichodesmium, pushed ashore by northerly winds.
When alive, he explained it resembles sawdust floating on the surface, with a pale yellow or orange colour. Once washed onto the beach, it becomes considerably less appealing.
“By the time it washes ashore, it’s yucky mucky,” Tony said.
“If the northerlies are blowing, it’ll stick around as well.”
Tony explained that coral spawning can also produce a smell, but its timing depends on water temperature and the lunar cycle, with late October generally on the early side.
Crocodile sightings have also drawn attention along the coast, with sightings at Coral and Cannonvale beach sparking early concern for swimmers.
With the nearby Proserpine River home to a large saltwater crocodile population and the waters getting warmer into summer, sightings along the coast remain a possibility.
Tony described the animals as shy and often quick to retreat when disturbed but their ability to disappear beneath the surface means they can be present without being seen, a reminder for people to remain vigilant around local waterways.
As people head to the coast to cool off, the seasonal changes are a timely reminder to heed beach signage and local warnings.
A clean-up at the Bowen Soundshell has brought the town’s homelessness challenges into focus, with Council moving to restore community access to the facility.
The action followed concerns raised over recent weeks about people sleeping at the Soundshell and reports of antisocial behaviour. Council worked with Queensland Police and local support services, giving those staying at the facility notice to move on before the clean-up.
“Council has since taken action under its Local Laws to address the unauthorised occupation of the facility,” said Mayor of Whitsunday Regional Council Ry Collins.
“The Soundshell is an important community facility and Council has a responsibility to ensure it remains safe, accessible and available for the community.
“Council will continue to monitor the area and respond as required.”
The Bowen soundshell was established in 2009, as an entertainment venue by the Bowen Jetty but over the past few years has become a gathering spot for unhoused community members. Before work was undertaken at the site, council and local police warned those occupying the site to move on.
“Council worked with Queensland Police and local support services to manage the situation respectfully, with those occupying the Soundshell given notice to move on before the clean-up,” said Mayor of Whitsunday Regional Council Ry Collins.
“Council continues to support connections to temporary accommodation and longer-term assistance, while ensuring public spaces remain safe and accessible.”
The Soundshell is one of a few areas on Council’s radar, with the Catalina memorial also being a site of concern and further action.
The work has drawn praise from certain locals grateful to regain access to the site, while others have called for “more mental health resources” and somewhere for people experiencing homelessness to stay.
Homelessness in the region is said to have spiked in the past couple of years, with rising rentals and housing shortages being the leading cause, according to the Whitsunday House Company.
“We need a caravan park to house these unfortunate people,” commented Rebecca Shyhun.
“Make it a community that gets the right help and support.”
Addressing the need for longer-term solutions, Mayor Collins said Council would continue working with housing and support services to help those experiencing homelessness.
“Homelessness is a complex issue that cannot be addressed through enforcement alone. Council will continue working with the Queensland Government, Queensland Police and homelessness and housing support service providers to support an appropriate response,” Mayor Collins said.
“While housing and specialist homelessness services are primarily the responsibility of the Queensland Government and relevant service providers, Council will continue to work collaboratively with these agencies where local issues arise, including supporting connections to temporary accommodation and longer-term assistance.”
Mia with her parents, Mel and Seb. Photo supplied
The Whitsunday community is rallying behind local mother Melanie Russell and her family as her daughter Mia prepares for further surgery and treatment after doctors discovered a brain tumour on her first birthday.
It all started when Mia’s parents first noticed her left eye turning inward in photographs, with the movement becoming more frequent over several weeks.
After seeking medical advice, they were told she likely needed prescription glasses and were referred to an ophthalmologist. As her vision worsened, Mel arranged an urgent appointment with a paediatric optometrist in Mackay.
Despite reassurance at that appointment, Mia became sleepy and lethargic over the following 24 hours. Mel, a nurse at Proserpine Hospital, took her daughter there for assessment before the family travelled to Mackay for further investigations.
An MRI the next morning, on Mia’s first birthday, revealed a large mass on her brain.
“Our world shattered into a million pieces and we will never, ever, be the same way again,” said Melanie Russell.
“Heartbreak, grief, and sorrow hit us like a f**king freight train.”
Mia was medically flown to Brisbane, where she underwent emergency surgery to relieve a build-up of fluid and pressure in her brain caused by the tumour. She was subsequently diagnosed with pineoblastoma, a rare and aggressive brain tumour Mel says makes up 1% of all brain tumors.
In an update since the surgery, Mel shared that the symptoms caused by that pressure have resolved, describing Mia as back to her “normal cheeky, strong-willed, happy self”, sharing some crucial news that the tumour has not spread through her cerebrospinal fluid.
“It’s a miracle,” Mel said.
Mia is now scheduled for further surgery on 12th November in Brisbane, with neurosurgeons aiming to remove up to 95 per cent of the tumour. Chemotherapy and ongoing scans will follow, with overseas therapies also a possibility as her family takes each stage of the treatment plan one step at a time.
“We are staying in Brisbane for as long as we need to, in order to support Mia through this journey,” said Mel.
“She is truly the best of this world and we are so beyond fortunate to be her parents.”
In an effort to rally around the family, donations have poured in from across the community, helping cover lost income and the costs of staying in Brisbane while Mia receives treatment.
With the total already reaching $67,000, Mel and Seb, Mia’s Dad, say they have been overwhelmed by the generosity shown to them.
“The ongoing support from the local community has been nothing short of incredible and overwhelming,” they shared.
“We are so grateful to everyone in Airlie Beach and surroundings that have shown up for us as a family.”
Support has extended beyond GoFundMe, with local businesses lending their support by lending their venues, hosting fundraisers for the family.
It starts on the Friday 13th November, with a Cocktail Club for a Cause night being held at Elementa Whitsundays, followed by Tee Off for Mia at Mulligans Airlie Beach on Sunday 15th November.
“Being parents ourselves and also knowing Mia’s parents, Mel and Seb, hearing the news about her was just devastating,” said Events Executive at 74 Islands Distillery Caitlin McLuskey.
“They are such a wonderful local family who have dedicated their lives to helping our community, and Mia is the most beautiful, happy little girl.”
To support Mia and her family through her treatment, visit https://www.gofundme.com/f/princess-mias-fight-for-life
The Airlie Beach Festival of Music is set to raise more than just the roof, collecting funds for Proserpine Hospital Auxiliary through this year’s raffle.
Volunteers will be roaming the festival grounds and venues selling tickets, with the lucky raffle winner to be announced in the main tent on Sunday afternoon. The prize? A guitar signed by the 2026 headline acts.
“We’ve always felt it was important to give back to the local community,” shared festival founded Gavin ‘Butto’ Butlin.
“The festival generates $5 million dollars for the Whitsunday region every year, so it’s good to know some of that money is going to people and organisations who are really in need."
A spokesperson from Proserpine Hospital auxiliary shared their gratitude for the festival’s upcoming contribution.
“Fundraising and accepting donations from the Community allows the Proserpine District Hospital Auxiliary to support Whitsunday Health Service and Proserpine Hospital with equipment and other items that help to improve patient comfort and experience,” they said.
“The Auxiliary have a number of wish list requests at present: from additional equipment through to patient comfort items and storage re-design.”
The initiative means the festival is not only a chance for the community to come together to party, but to rally in mateship by supporting a trusted and impactful local cause.
Photo source: Whitsunday Anglican School
Whitsunday Anglican School has celebrated a successful year of student sport, recognising the tremendous talent and achievements of its athletes at its 2026 Sports Awards.
Among the major honours, the Bill Turner Cup Under-15 Soccer Team and Vicki Wilson Cup Year 7–9 Netball Team were named Sports Teams of the Year after winning their respective Mackay competitions and progressing to represent the Mackay Region at state competitions.
Harriet received Sports Official of the Year for her commitment to netball umpiring, including her selection to officiate at Queensland Representative School Sport level, while Maverick and Chelsea were named Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year for their sporting excellence, integrity and contributions to the school.
The school also recognised Mr Jim Fredericksen for 20 years of volunteer coaching with its Archery Programme.
Mayor Greg Williamson attended the awards, alongside guest speaker Mrs Deanna Turner, who shared insights into the value of sport in education. A former Queensland Firebirds netball player, Australian rugby league player and Queensland Rugby League coach, Mrs Turner is also a current Queensland Representative School Sport coach.
Her presentation explored how sport can help build resilience, teamwork and leadership.
The school congratulated all award recipients and students who represented Whitsunday Anglican School throughout 2026.
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