Are we’re back with the creative corner. This week I finished the memoir ‘Just Kids’ by Patti Smith, a musician mainly known for her hit ‘Because the Night’. The book focuses on her move to New York as an aspiring artist in the late 60’s and chronicles her complicated yet deep relationship with photographer Robert Mapplethorpe.

What really inspired me about the book, was how many creative things Patti Smith did. Although she’s mainly known for her music, Smith wrote poetry, screenplays and plays – created art and even acted in avant-garde theatre. In a modern world that is incredibly fast-paced and busy – it can be easy to get boxed into one creative identity. Are you a musician? A painter? A writer?

What Patti Smith shows is that creativity transcends an identity or label. It is not a vocation or job title – it is a state of being. We can create many different types of things and they all inform each other. Creativity is not one path you choose or just a way of making money, it is a muscle that must be exercised and it can be exercised in many different ways.

This week I would encourage you to reflect on your creativity. If you’re known by one creative label, how about trying another? If you’re mainly a musician – why not try writing a screenplay? If you’re mainly an artist – why not try some poetry? You may find ways of expression you weren’t previously aware of.

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This week’s winner is Alissa Tomlinson who submitted this photo titled ‘Engagement at Hydeaway Bay’, for the theme ‘New Beginnings.’

Next week’s theme will be “Fun”. Send your submissions to Whitsundays Amateur Photographers Group on Facebook.

These photographs are contributed by the Whitsundays Amateur Photographers Group

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Madalene Gray was an astute businesswoman and tourism stalwart who was awarded Australia Day Citizen of the Year in 1992 in acknowledgement of her support of sporting clubs and organisations in the community.

But Madalene was much more than this. She was the matriarch of a happy family of nine children, eighteen grandchildren and fifteen great grandchildren as well as “Mum” to many others.  Madalene was known for her hospitality, with her Telford Street home always welcoming guests and serving plenty of good food.

Before marrying Edward Gray in Brisbane in 1935, she worked as a clerk for the Gray family in their Brisbane operation manufacturing louvres. Madalene confessed to crying all the way on their journey to live in Proserpine but quickly settled into life in the country town and immersed herself into community life.

Initially, she and Eddie lived in Main Street behind the family’s furniture shop which was where Cherrie Baby is now located and they raised a family of nine children, including twins.

In 1936, Madalene and Eddie commenced their very successful sawmilling business. With a family of six children by this time, Madalene managed the office. Renowned for her knowledge of timber and her ability to run the timber yard, she could tell at a glance if an order was incomplete.

Keen for a change, in 1956, Madalene opened a dress salon called Jo Anne’s. She and her daughter Edna owned the shop when it was on Main Street, where Shoe Biz now stands.

In 1958, the Grays sold the sawmilling business and entered the tourism industry purchasing an ex-navy vessel, “Fairmile”, which they converted into a 32-berth tourist launch named “Esmeralda”. They became pioneers in overnight cruising in the Whitsundays, staying at sea five days every week. Madalene was hostess, barmaid, maitre’d, nurse and cleaner – with a family of nine children by this time. She was also “Mum” to the crew on the boat as well. When Shute Harbour was opened in 1961, the official luncheon was held on the “Esmeralda”.  In 1963, the Grays sold “Esmeralda” and repurchased the sawmill.

Despite leading a very busy working life and family life, Madalene still found time to involve herself in the community. She was Life Member and Patron of Whitsunday Sailing Club. The Whitsunday Sailing Club believes that Madalene and Eddie Gray's generosity and active participation were essential to its development and success. They particularly supported junior sabot sailing and helped to establish the Learn to Sail school. As a measure of the regard within which they were held, in 1992, “Sabot Week” was dedicated to the Gray family.

She was also Life Member of the Proserpine Show Society and Patron of the Uniting Church Flower Show as well as being actively involved in all aspects of the Uniting Church. Madalene also supported many other community and sporting organisations and made costumes for the local theatre group.

Madalene Gray passed away on April 19, 1998, having lived a rich and full life, dedicating herself to both her family and her community.  

Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum

Caption

Madalene Gray

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Tourism Whitsundays has entered a new chapter with the appointment of Katelyn Aslett as Chair, marking an important leadership transition for the region’s peak tourism body. Professionally known as Katelyn Aslett, Mrs Collins steps into the role with a breadth of experience that spans export development, aviation, strategic marketing, philanthropy and frontline regional tourism operations.

Currently the owner-operator of hospitality, bar and retail outlets at Whitsunday Coast Airport, Kate is directly involved in shaping visitor experiences at the region’s primary gateway. Her day-to-day engagement with travellers provides practical insight into the expectations of today’s domestic and international markets, as well as the opportunities and pressures facing local operators.

Kate said she was honoured to accept the position, describing the Whitsundays as one of Australia’s most iconic destinations and acknowledging the responsibility that comes with helping guide its future. She has committed to working collaboratively with operators, stakeholders and government to strengthen and grow the visitor economy in a way that is sustainable, strategic and inclusive.

Her career reflects a consistent focus on innovation and commercial leadership. As an independent fashion designer, manufacturer and retailer, she achieved national recognition for export excellence and secured an Australian Export Development Grant to support international market expansion. She represented Australian enterprise at major global trade and promotional events, including G’Day USA and international fashion weeks in Milan and Singapore. These experiences laid the foundation for a strong understanding of global markets and brand positioning.

Kate later served as Business Development and Marketing Manager for Adagold Aviation, a leading private jet operator involved in luxury tourism travel and government contract aviation. In that role, she worked extensively across Europe, the United States and South East Asia, building strategic commercial partnerships and navigating high level government relationships. The position required a careful balance of commercial acumen and diplomatic engagement, skills that will be valuable in destination advocacy and regional planning.

The Chair role carries significant responsibility. It involves strategic marketing oversight, government engagement, industry representation and long term planning to ensure the Whitsundays remain competitive in a rapidly evolving tourism landscape. Kate has signalled that unity, transparency and measurable outcomes will be central to her approach.

She has also acknowledged the broader footprint of tourism across the region. While visitor activity is concentrated in Airlie Beach and the islands, the economic benefits extend to Bowen, Collinsville and Proserpine. Tourism supports local businesses, families and jobs well beyond the coastline, reinforcing its status as the region’s economic engine. Ensuring every community connected to the visitor economy feels included and supported will be a priority.

Kate succeeds outgoing Chair Julie Telford, who has led the board since 2020. During a period defined by COVID-19 disruption and recovery, Julie provided steady leadership and helped strengthen partnerships across the industry. Chief Executive Officer Tim Booth paid tribute to her strategic insight and commitment, thanking her for guiding the organisation through challenging times and positioning the region for continued growth.

With her appointment taking effect immediately, Kate steps into the role at a time of opportunity and responsibility for one of Australia’s most celebrated destinations.

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Easter in Australia is more than just chocolate eggs and long weekends—it’s an opportunity to gather family and friends around the table and celebrate with memorable meals. From the sunny southern states to tropical Queensland, the holiday inspires a variety of seasonal dishes that reflect both tradition and local flavours.

No Easter table is complete without a show-stopping roast. Australians often opt for a juicy leg of lamb, seasoned with rosemary, garlic, and a hint of lemon, paired with roasted vegetables and golden potatoes. For those seeking lighter fare, fresh seafood, such as prawns and barramundi, offers a refreshing alternative, especially in warmer coastal regions.

Sweet treats also play a starring role. Hot cross buns, a symbol of Easter tradition, are enjoyed across the country, whether plain, spiced, or studded with chocolate chips. Modern twists include versions with tangy orange glaze or caramelised pecans. For dessert, pavlova adorned with fresh berries and passionfruit brings a distinctly Australian flair, combining crisp meringue with creamy topping and tropical fruits.

For families, DIY chocolate nests and carrot cakes remain popular, doubling as a fun activity and a delicious finale. Local ingredients—from macadamias to native wattleseed—add unique flavours that make Easter meals truly special.

Easter is a time to indulge, share, and experiment in the kitchen. These recipes are not just about sustenance—they are a celebration of community, seasonality, and Australian culinary creativity. Whether you stick to tradition or innovate with modern flavours, there’s no better time to make your Easter table unforgettable.

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Photo source: Shutterstock

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Whitsunday Law is proud to be a Platinum Sponsor of this year’s Proserpine Show Ball, and even prouder to support an event that brings our local community together in true country style.

With this year’s theme “Pretty in the Paddock”, we’re looking forward to a night of boots, ball gowns, great company and celebrating everything that makes our region special.

And yes we've already got our tickets...  the entire Whitsunday Law team will be there!

So if you see us frocked up (or attempting to be), please come and say hello. We love supporting local events, and we love catching up with familiar faces even more.

At Whitsunday Law, community matters. Whether we’re assisting with property, Wills and estates, business matters or life’s unexpected curveballs, we’re proud to stand alongside the people and organisations that make the Whitsundays what it is.

We can’t wait to celebrate with you.

See you at the Ball.

Whitsunday Law

Practical. Trusted. Local.

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Photo source: Facebook

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The Garden Bar sits right on the edge of Coral Sea Marina, where island views, sea breezes and relaxed coastal elegance shape the way guests dine, drink and unwind.

At the heart of the experience is our team - warm, welcoming and passionate about bringing a little “island ease” to every plate. In the kitchen our trio of dedicated chefs from around the globe each bring their own heritage, techniques and love of fresh, honest cooking. Their diverse backgrounds bring depth, colour and creativity to every menu evolution.

This upcoming season, we’re excited to showcase a refreshed menu featuring both new favourites and elevated classics. Expect Tempura Vegetables with a crisp, delicate finish; a silky Deconstructed Cheesecake that’s light yet indulgent; a rotating Fish of the Daypaired with seasonal produce; and vibrant salad and vegetarian options crafted for warm Whitsunday days.

The venue itself offers a choice of beautiful spaces - each with its own charm. Our lush garden area is a favourite for long, relaxed lunches under the cassia tree; the undercover deck is ideal for warm afternoons and soft-lit evenings; and everywhere you sit, you’re surrounded by marina and island views that shift beautifully with every sunset.

Guests can also enjoy live acoustic music every Sunday from 1:30pm, creating the perfect soundtrack for an easy afternoon by the water. For celebrations, we offer a dedicated functions menu, including handcrafted function cocktails and specialty grazing platters designed to elevate any event.

Whether you’re joining us for a casual afternoon bite, sunset cocktails or a special celebration, you’ll find an inviting, effortless coastal atmosphere that keeps both locals and visitors returning.

1. Nileesha (Head Chef), and Kitchen Team Jepsy and Matteo. Photo supplied
2. Garden Bar Team. Photo supplied

• *the lady with the dark hair on the far left needs to be removed as she now works at a different venue

1. Espresso Martinis. Photo supplied

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Marigold, affectionately known as Mari, is an 11-year-old gentle soul who is ready to spend her golden years in comfort, safety and love.

Mari is shy when first meeting new people and can be sensitive to loud noises. However, once she feels safe, her calm and affectionate nature begins to shine. Mari is happiest in a low stress environment.

A domestic medium hair with a soft presence, Mari has low to medium energy. She is independent yet affectionate, litter trained and suited to an indoor only lifestyle.

Her ideal home would be a quiet, low traffic household. She would do well with a single person, a couple, or a calm family without young children.

Marigold has been desexed, microchipped and vaccinated. She has no known ongoing medical issues. Her adoption fee is $100.

Mari deserves warmth, comfort and a home where her gentle spirit will be cherished. Those interested in learning more or applying to adopt Marigold are encouraged to contact Bowen and Collinsville Pet Rescue. Sharing her story may help this sweet senior girl find the quiet home she so richly deserves.

Contact bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com.

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Tonya Dunne, owner and personal trainer at A FIT LIFE by Tonya, has spent the last decade transforming lives through fitness. Her journey began as a full-time mother of two, where exercise became her anchor amidst the chaos of motherhood, promoting both physical and mental well-being.

After six years as a client of the fitness classes she now offers, Tonya was inspired to become a personal trainer. In 2016, she gained her certification and took over a business started by a close friend. Her mission was simple: to provide others with the same life-changing fitness opportunities she had experienced.

Over the past ten years, A FIT LIFE by Tonya has flourished, with loyal clients returning year after year. Tonya’s greatest joy is seeing her clients—especially the women—grow stronger, more confident, and prioritize their health. With expertise in personal training, weight management, and menopause coaching, Tonya offers a comprehensive approach to fitness that helps clients achieve their physical, emotional, and mental goals.

Tonya's approach is built on honesty, reliability, and a commitment to empowering others. She has created a supportive, educational environment with smaller class sizes, fostering a sense of community. Clients feel safe knowing they have a coach who genuinely cares about their success.

Looking ahead, Tonya plans to continue growing her business while staying true to the values that have made it successful. She is committed to furthering her education and helping clients through all stages of their fitness journeys. “I plan on staying right where I am,” Tonya says, “continuing to support women (and men) through all stages of their fitness lives.”

Her advice to aspiring businesswomen: “Believe in yourself, your talents are unique. Compare only with yourself to do better each day.” Tonya’s story proves that consistency, persistence, and self-belief can lead to success.

When she’s not working, Tonya enjoys hiking, boating with her family, and camping with friends. Annual trips to Perth to visit family provide a much-needed recharge.

With ten years of experience and a clear vision for the future, Tonya continues to inspire those around her, proving that with dedication and a positive mindset, anything is possible.

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This International Women’s Day, Tassal is proud to shine a light on the women helping shape the future of aquaculture across our business Australia-wide. One of them is Holly, a dedicated Hatchery and Prawn Health Technician at our Proserpine Prawn Farm in the stunning Whitsundays.

The farm is home to premium tiger prawn production, with a strong focus on sustainable farming, local employment and community partnerships across the region. Holly Dubois said Tassal has become the perfect place to build a hands-on career in an industry she loves.

Holly started as a casual Hatchery Technician, but her enthusiasm and capability meant she became full-time very quickly. Today, she splits her year between the farm and the hatchery. During Summer and Autumn, she works outdoors as part of the Prawn Health team, monitoring prawns, stocking ponds and supporting harvest preparations. In Winter and Spring, she moves into the hatchery, helping to breed and grow the next generation of prawns. Her work includes feeding post larvae, managing water quality, treating tanks and producing algae cultures.

Holly says Tassal appealed to her because it offered a safe workplace, opportunities to develop her skills and a supportive team culture.

“The people make the biggest difference,” she said.

“And being only 30 minutes from Airlie Beach is a bonus.”

The Proserpine farm plays an important role in the region, not only producing high-quality prawns but also supporting local schools, sporting groups, conservation efforts and community events. Holly said she is proud to be part of that impact both in her work and in the community she calls home.

This International Women’s Day, Tassal celebrates Holly and all the women driving innovation, growth and sustainability in aquaculture across the Whitsundays and beyond.

CAPTION: This International Women’s Day, Tassal is proud to shine a light on Holly, a Hatchery and Prawn Health Technician at our Proserpine Prawn Farm. Photo supplied

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What if success wasn’t about doing more — but about living better?

For Mental Health Clinician and Founder of Personal Transitions, Sharon Ashman, her professional motto says it all: “Turn life into living.” It’s a simple phrase, but it carries depth especially for women balancing ambition, family, responsibility, and self-care.

With proud Irish heritage and a grounded outlook, Sharon believes lasting success begins with inner strength. Passion matters. So does integrity. But just as important are patience and steady determination. “We are our business,” she says, particularly in health and wellbeing. If we are exhausted, disconnected, or running on empty, it shows — not only in our work, but in our homes.

Sharon’s journey is a reminder that careers don’t need to follow a straight line to be meaningful. Her first professional highlight was working as a chef with Hilton International in Europe, a role that demanded discipline, teamwork, and resilience. From there, she moved into teaching, natural medicine, and eventually completed a Master’s in Mental Health Nursing. Each chapter added another layer of understanding about people, pressure, and perseverance.

Today, her work with children, adolescents, and families, particularly in ADHD and Autism, centres on building emotional regulation and self-belief. When a young person learns to manage overwhelming feelings, or an adult rediscovers confidence, that is success. Those quiet victories matter more than numbers on a balance sheet.

Inspired by Viktor Frankl and his book Man's Search for Meaning, Sharon believes purpose mixed with passion is what carries us through hard seasons. She also embraces the Japanese philosophy of Ikigai, suggesting the meeting point between what you love, what you’re good at, what the world needs, and what can sustain you. When those elements come together, work no longer feels like survival.

For every woman reading this: your path may twist and turn. There may be pauses, pivots, and brave new beginnings. But if you stay connected to your values and care for your inner world, you won’t just build a career.

You’ll turn life into living.

personaltransitions.com.au

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Lisa Dunn has mastered the art of balancing business and family.

Alongside her husband Sean, Lisa plays an integral role across three local businesses: Irrigear Whitsundays, Dunnrite Plumbing Services, and The Organised Life Whitsundays. Add two young children into the mix, and life is rarely quiet!

The Dunns’ business journey began with Dunnrite Plumbing Services, launched in 2020. Sean drove the business strategy, while Lisa’s focus naturally centred on people, relationships, and culture.

“When people feel valued, supported and cared for, everything else follows,” Lisa says.

In 2022, Lisa co-founded The Organised Life Whitsundays with her close friend Alia, inspired by her own experience of how overwhelming modern life can feel. The goal was simple — to help others regain a sense of calm and control in their homes and schedules.

Taking over Irrigear Whitsundays in 2025 marked the next bold step for the Dunns. Lisa refers to this as a career highlight, expressing her gratitude to the experienced and capable team who took the transition in their stride.

“Honestly, they make my job easier,” Lisa laughs, “some days they make me look far more organised than I actually am.”

Lisa’s resilience and adaptability was shaped long before she entered the business world. Born in Zimbabwe, she later lived in the UK before eventually settling in Australia to be close to family here. The presence of old friends drew Lisa to the Whitsundays, but the laidback lifestyle, strong community and family feel, caused her to stay.

Now, sharing her home with Sean’s sister and her children, two dogs, a cat, a guinea pig named Cinnamon, and a few fish, the house is basically organised chaos.

“It’s busy both at home and in business,” Lisa explains, “fuelled by lots and lots of coffee — but it’s also full of love and laughter.”

“At the end of the day, I’m just doing my best to juggle motherhood, business, and life, and I’m incredibly grateful to be surrounded by people who make that possible.”

1- Lisa Dunn, matriarch at the helm of three family businesses. Photo credit: R Jean Photography

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The Whitsundays has long been a sought-after place to tie the knot – but this year, we’re inviting couples to fall head over heels all over again.

Weddings Whitsundays – powered by the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry – is delighted to unveil the first-ever Whitsundays Wedding Trail, taking place on Sunday 14 June 2026.

It promises to be a match made in paradise.

We’re saying goodbye to the traditional, one-room bridal expo and hello to something far more swoon-worthy.

The Wedding Trail will be an immersive, region-wide event designed to showcase the Whitsundays in all its glory. Instead of walking through a crowded function room, engaged couples will embark on a curated journey through eight of the region's breathtaking venues.

Each venue will be styled to perfection and transformed into a “mini-expo,” featuring a hand-picked selection of the region’s most talented suppliers — from florists and stylists to celebrants, caterers, photographers, entertainers and more.

Couples won’t just collect business cards; they’ll experience each space as it could look on their own big day, meet vendors face-to-face, and start building connections that feel like the real deal.

Calling All Suppliers: EOIs Now Open!

If you’re in the wedding business, this is your moment to shine before the bouquet is thrown.

The Wedding Trail offers an unparalleled opportunity to showcase your services to highly motivated couples, supported by a targeted marketing campaign reaching Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria.

Expressions of Interest are now officially open.

Whether you are a videographer, hair and makeup artist, or entertainer, we want to see your talent on the trail. Member and non-member pricing tiers are available.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this landmark event.

Email Weddings Whitsundays on hello@weddingswhitsundays.com for more information and help us showcase why there is no better place to say "I do" than the Whitsundays.

Contributed with thanks to the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce & Industry

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Mr and Mrs Patton

Photo supplied

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The team at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre have been busy this week, gaining their accreditation status for another year.

Accredited Visitor Information Centres need to meet a high standard in service, local knowledge and visitor support.

All accredited centres have a yellow and blue “I” meaning the accredited centres are recognisable for travellers.

As part of the accreditation process, the team must provide evidence of local knowledge and documentation relating to such things as policies and processes, insurance and opening hours.

All accredited Visitor Information Centres must open for a minimum of 42 hours per week, including opening on weekends.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said the team of staff and volunteers were very proud to provide excellent customer service to more than 50,000 visitors per year.

“We are proud to operate an accredited centre, showing our commitment to excellent visitor services and industry-leading standards.”

The on-site audit this week was carried out by The Tourism Group’s Business Development Manager, Jeremy Miller.

“It was a pleasure to visit the Bowen VIC,” he said.

“It is a stand-out centre, beautifully presented, meeting the highest of standards and with a great team of staff and volunteers.”

There are about 100 accredited centres in Queensland.

Bowen is currently the only accredited Visitor Information Centre in the Whitsundays.

Contributed with thanks to Bowen Tourism and Business

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Bowen Tourism and Business team members, Glenn Womal, Leanne Abernethy and Cindy Tonks with Business Development Manager for the Tourism Group, Jeremy Miller.

• Photo supplied

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The Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network hosted their first BBQ brekky of 2026 on Friday 27^th February in Cannonvale. Many gathered to show their support for a cause that is incredibly important to the region. There were great chats and laughter as many enjoyed the sausages, hashbrowns, bacon and other breakfast foods supplied thanks to Food From the Heart Airlie Beach and Master Butchers Whitsunday & MBW On the Barbie. The network were grateful to have the event sponsored by Pacific Coast Scaffold.

Ash Telford from Red Cat Adventures and SeaLink Whitsundays was the guest speaker and spoke of his own struggles with mental health, encouraging people to be vulnerable and support each other when times get tough. He stated that it was of the upmost importance to reach out and provide safe spaces for people so that they can get the help they need.

Mental health continues to be an ongoing problem across the region. The Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network remain dedicated to helping as many people as possible, providing community spaces so that everyone is aware of the support that is available.

These events are crucial to show support to many who struggle in the region and proves that they do not have to go through it alone. A great thanks to the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention for hosting the event – they have a great deal of events planned for 2026 and will continue to support those in need. It is a reminder that you do not have to go through hard times alone. There is a wealth of community support and people to reach out to.

Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi

1. A commendable effort on the part of the organisers’
2. Ash Telford reflecting on his own struggles and showing support for the cause
3. Everyone gathering to show their support
4. A delicious breakfast put on for all to enjoy

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