Whether they’re avoiding a pod of whales, traversing a shallow reef, or giving a racing yacht wide berth, the crew of VMR Whitsunday are well practiced at changing course to ensure they reach their destination swiftly and safely. Today, the experienced volunteer crew set a new course, joining Marine Rescue Queensland as the service’s eighteenth unit.

MRQ Whitsunday Unit Commander Shane Newell said that the unit had taken their transition very much in their stride and were looking forward to a new chapter in their rich history as part of MRQ.

“From our humble beginnings in the early 1960s with just six locals who were concerned for the safety of boaties on the water, we’ve grown into a highly experienced unit who manage hundreds of activations in all weathers every year,” Mr Newell said.

“Our crew work hard to coordinate activities and support one another to ensure jobs run smoothly and we’re proud to be continuing that service under the banner of MRQ.”

The unit provides a vital service in the Whitsundays, a mecca for boating enthusiasts wanting to enjoy sailing and water sports in the clear waters around the region’s 74 islands.

“Our territory covers 13,000 square kilometres within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and in busy periods there can be three to four thousand boaties on the water at any one time. From medivacs, to towing broken down vessels and search and rescue activities, we’re always ready to answer a call for assistance. But we’re also lucky to be providing our services in one of the best boating areas in Australia and we’re often rewarded with spectacular sunrises and sunsets, or a show from a passing pod of whales,” he said.

MRQ Chief Officer Tony Wulff welcomed MRQ Whitsunday into the service and called on local residents to consider volunteering their time to help the unit deliver their vital service.

“As a sailor myself, I know the attraction of boating in the Whitsundays region. But no matter how experienced you are, it’s good to know that there will be someone there to take the call if you run into trouble. The crew at MRQ Whitsundays are a committed and experienced team and we’d love to see their numbers grow. Volunteering is a great way to develop your marine skills and learn from seasoned professionals. MRQ provides all the uniform, kit and training you need to be able to make a difference and support your local on-water community. If you’d like to hear some firsthand accounts of day-to-day rescue work, visit the MRQ Whitsunday Facebook page to read about their activations – the crew are natural storytellers and paint a great picture of life as a volunteer.”

Interested volunteers can lodge their interest via the MRQ website or email contactus@mrq.qld.gov.au

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The Whitsunday community has once again shown its generosity, with this year’s Mayor’s Charity Ball raising an impressive $90,000 for local organisations.

At a cheque handover ceremony, Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins thanked sponsors, supporters, and attendees for helping make the annual event such a success.

Funds from the evening went to BMA CQ Rescue, the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, and the Bowen Community Centre, three organisations that play vital roles in providing emergency services, support, and connection across the region.

Mayor Ry Collins expressed gratitude to all sponsors, highlighting Platinum sponsors Lowcock Builders and Airlie Beach Hotel, along with a strong list of Gold and Silver sponsors.

“Without their support, we wouldn't have been able to make this event possible,” said Mayor Collins.

“Thank you sincerely for your generous support to some fantastic causes.

“Your generosity in our community is making a real impact, and these funds are supporting critical emergency services and centering on the vital role in our community by strengthening, offering connection, support and hope to those that need it most.”

Guests on the night were treated to entertainment from Seagrass Theatre, whose performance drew high praise. “Many would agree with me, were fantastic on the night of the Mayors Ball” said Mayor Collins.

“It’s great to have you all here, and thank you so much for your support for this year's event. We couldn't have done it without you.”

The Mayor also confirmed that planning is already underway for the next Mayor’s Charity Ball, with the date locked in for Saturday 25 July 2026, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre.

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Tegan Philpott from BMA CQ Rescue, Executive Officer of Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre Rebecca Woods, Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins, and Councillor Michelle Wright
Jen and Jack from Platinum Sponsor Lowcock Builders

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Recently we have seen a small amount of attempted stealing offences where people have walked into people’s property, tried car doors, doors on houses and walked through veranda areas. No significant property has been stolen but it raises an important topic. Today, more than ever, the importance of knowing your neighbours often gets overlooked. However, creating strong connections with those who live around us fosters a sense of belonging, strengthens community ties, and crucially, helps keep everyone safe.

A connected community is an engaged community—a place where people look out for one another, notice when something feels different and offer support when it’s needed most. Whether it’s sharing a morning wave across the fence, making fun of the footy team they support, having a friendly conversation in the street, or exchanging contact details for emergencies, the smallest actions can make the biggest difference.

When we know our neighbours well, we can recognise changes that may indicate someone needs help. For example, has a usually active neighbour suddenly disappeared from view? Is there unfamiliar activity at a home where things are normally quiet? You might see lights around the yard at night. These small observations can help prevent more serious incidents or provide assistance to someone in urgent need or stop an opportunistic crime.

Beyond safety, fostering neighbourly relationships improves the well-being of everyone in the area. Studies show that connected communities are happier and healthier. Knowing our neighbours lessens loneliness, reduces stress, and increases confidence to reach out in times of need.

It isn’t just about adults either; connected communities are a safer environment for children to play and grow. Streets become friendlier, and a network of tens or hundreds of watchful eyes provides an added layer of care.

So how do we nurture this culture of connection? Start with simple gestures—a smile, a hello, or even organising a casual BBQ or street party to get everyone talking. Its as simple of a g’day across a fence.

Contributed with thanks to Senior Sergeant Officer in Charge of Whitsunday Police Station Anthony Moynihan

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From my very first day as Mayor, my approach has been that regional Councils are strongest when we work together across all levels of government, alongside industry, and most importantly, with our community. Last week in Canberra, that spirit of partnership was on full display.

Over three days, the Greater Whitsunday Council of Mayors, Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson, Isaac Mayor Kelly Vea Vea and I, joined with our economic and industry partners to speak with a united voice for our region.

Together, we made sure the Whitsundays was front and centre on the national agenda. In 17 meetings with Ministers, Senators, MPs, advisors and the Speaker of the House, we shared the priorities that matter most to our communities.

We spoke about the need for better roads, reliable water and energy, stronger digital connectivity, and more affordable housing. We raised the issue of insurance costs, which continue to hurt families and businesses. And we pushed for more opportunities in skills and education to support our young people into local jobs.

We didn’t just talk about today’s challenges but also highlighted the opportunities of tomorrow. Industries like bio-manufacturing in agriculture, aviation connectivity, and aerospace will help diversify our economy and create the jobs of the future. And of course, we continue to fight for funding for the Bruce Highway, which is vital to the safety and prosperity of our whole region.

What makes this so important is that it shows the power of collaboration. When we speak together, with one voice, we are harder to ignore. That’s how we get results for our community.

And make no mistake, the future of the Whitsundays is shining bright. Being named the home of Olympic sailing in 2032 gives us a global stage and a once in a generation chance to leave a legacy.

With transformational projects like the Whitsunday Skyway now under way, we are seeing the kind of investment that will reshape our region for decades to come. These are not just projects and plans. They are the building blocks of a stronger and more confident Whitsundays.

They will shape the lives of our children and grandchildren, and showcase to the world the place we are so lucky to call home. From the waterfront at Airlie Beach to the heart of Proserpine, from the proud community of Bowen to the resilience of Collinsville, every town has a role to play in this story.

By working together, we can make sure the Whitsundays does not just grow, it flourishes. The best chapters of our story are still to come, and we will write them side by side as a community.

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Whitsunday residents and visitors are being urged to check their Saturday Gold Lotto tickets, with a mystery player yet to claim a $2.5 million prize from the weekend’s draw.

The unregistered ticket was purchased at Hickmott’s Supa News in Bowen for Saturday Gold Lotto draw 4605 on 6 September 2025. The winning entry was one of eight division one winners nationally, each scoring $2.5 million.

So far this year, the Mackay and Whitsundays region has celebrated six major lottery wins, worth more than $19 million in total.

Hickmott’s Supa News manager Angela Stevens said the team was thrilled to have sold another winning ticket.

“It’s been a few years since our last big win – we’re so excited! With the Don River Dash and Father’s Day visitors in town, it could be anyone,” she said.

“Our most recent major wins were a $740,000 Saturday Lotto ticket in 2020 and a $2 million win in 2019.

“On behalf of the entire team here at Hickmott’s Supa News, we wish our mystery winner all the very best and can’t wait for you to check your ticket and claim the prize!”

Anyone who purchased a ticket from Hickmott’s Supa News is urged to check it and contact The Lott on 131 868 to claim their prize.

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Monday 8 September 2025: The Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC) has today unveiled its new Strategic Plan 2025–2028 and Advocacy Plan 2025–26, charting a bold path to strengthen Queensland’s visitor economy in the lead-up to Brisbane 2032 and beyond. The plans are especially significant for regions such as the Whitsundays, which rely heavily on tourism and are preparing for increased visitor numbers in the coming years.

QTIC CEO Natassia Wheeler said the plans demonstrate QTIC’s role as the trusted voice of the state’s visitor economy, aligning directly with the government’s Destination45 long-term vision for the sector.

“Our vision is to be the trusted voice that champions Queensland as the undisputed leader in the global visitor economy by 2045. These plans show exactly how we will achieve that – by uniting industry voices, elevating our members, driving innovation, and accelerating outcomes,” Wheeler said.

“Collaboration is at the heart of these plans. QTIC recognises the critical role of Tourism and Events Queensland, regional and local tourism organisations, all levels of government and industry. By working together in a proactive, outcomes-driven way, we can ensure Queensland’s visitor economy thrives to 2032 and beyond,” she added.

The Strategic Plan 2025–2028 is structured around four pillars – Powerful Advocacy, Member-Led Engagement, Empowering Industry Capability, and Organisational Excellence – designed to ensure QTIC delivers clear value to members, builds industry capability and workforce, and remains future-ready.

The Advocacy Plan 2025–26 operationalises this strategy through five clear priorities: securing sustainable visitor economy funding; tackling rising costs for business; boosting investment in tourism infrastructure; growing a skilled and resilient workforce; and enabling growth in ecotourism and sustainable practices.

In relation to tackling rising costs for businesses, insurance reform is identified in the strategy as an issue QTIC aims to address, becoming top of mind as the state prepares for upcoming weather events over summer. Wheeler said QTIC has heard from operators whose public liability premiums have surged from $2,000 to $75,000, or from $16,000 to $500,000 – in some cases with excesses as high as $1 million. Some businesses have resorted to self-insuring, while others have been unable to secure coverage at all.

“Insurance is no longer just a cost of doing business – it has become a barrier to viability for some operators,” Wheeler said. “Without action, the sustainability of some of Queensland’s most recognisable visitor experiences is at risk. That’s why this issue sits within our advocacy priorities.”

The plans also highlight the urgent need for tourism infrastructure investment, which is particularly relevant for popular regions such as the Whitsundays. South East Queensland currently has just 46,000 hotel rooms – less than half of Los Angeles (120,000) and Paris (133,000). Even with committed developments, capacity is expected to grow to only 51,000 rooms by 2030, leaving Queensland significantly short of what is needed to meet demand as Brisbane 2032 approaches. QTIC is advocating for streamlined planning, cutting red tape, and creating clear investment pathways without impediments.

“Queensland is attracting more visitors, more often, for longer stays – but our infrastructure is not keeping pace,” Wheeler said. “Hotel capacity, transport links, and tourism infrastructure must expand now to match our ambitions for 2032 and beyond.”

Both the QTIC Strategic Plan 2025–2028 and the QTIC Advocacy Plan 2025–26 can be read in full at www.qtic.com.au

Orange Sky Australia is bringing its life-changing laundry service to the Whitsundays, aiming to support locals who are doing it tough. The not-for-profit has secured a location and the necessary resources for the region, but the launch is dependent on securing enough local volunteers to join the team.

The need is clear. The Orange Sky service in Mackay, established in 2017, has struggled to keep up with demand due to critically low volunteer numbers. With rising living costs and growing social challenges, many in the community face practical difficulties when it comes to washing and drying their laundry. Orange Sky exists to bridge that gap, offering practical assistance while also providing connection and conversation to those who may feel isolated.

While the service is usually delivered via the iconic bright orange mobile vans, the Whitsundays will see a new approach with the launch of an Orange Sky Indoor Laundromat. By installing washing machines and dryers within a partner organisation in an area of need, the program provides a practical, accessible, and welcoming space for locals. The Whitsundays Coin Laundromat, at 42 Stewart Drive, Cannonvale, will become Orange Sky’s 51st service location across Australia, offering a unique, community-centred solution.

The indoor laundromat will operate every Monday and Thursday from 1 pm to 3 pm. Volunteers are asked to commit just two hours a fortnight, providing both practical assistance with laundry and the simple yet invaluable gift of human connection. “Our organisation seeks to positively connect communities through conversation and building relationships, so having consistent volunteers on shift is essential,” says Orange Sky.

The program is inclusive and welcoming to anyone who wants to contribute, with no prior qualifications required. Volunteers will become part of a team dedicated to creating a space where locals experiencing hardship can feel seen, supported, and connected. It is a model that combines practical help with emotional and social support, recognising that connection is as vital as clean clothes.

Orange Sky encourages locals interested in volunteering to register their interest by visiting orangesky.org/volunteer. The preliminary form allows the team to share more information and guide potential volunteers through the process. With a six-month commitment on a regular team, either weekly or fortnightly, volunteers will help ensure that the service can run smoothly and consistently.

In a world where the cost of living is rising and social isolation is increasingly common, Orange Sky’s new Whitsundays service offers more than clean clothes. It offers a space for conversation, connection, and community. The hope is that with enough volunteers, the Whitsundays will soon welcome this vital program, giving locals not just practical support but also a chance to feel part of something bigger.

What: Orange Sky Volunteering
When: Mondays and Thursdays 1-3pm, from September 2025
Where: 42 Stewart Dr, Cannonvale QLD 4802

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Orange Sky Needs Volunteers! Photo Source: https://orangesky.org.au/

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Tec-NQ House Year 10 boarder Brad is already getting his hands on the tools. He has secured assistant boiler maker work with a local business near home, not far from Clermont.

“This is my first year at Tec-NQ House,” said Brad. “I’m in Year 10, and so far I’m liking it.” The move to boarding has been made easier by new friendships. “I have made a few mates, so that’s good,” he commented.

Term breaks will be busy. When he is not on the job learning the basics of boiler making, Brad will be back on the station riding horses and motorbikes or heading out hunting with family. It is the best of both worlds, a mix of country life and career-building experience.

Head of Boarding, Luke Papworth, says Brad’s approach is exactly what Tec-NQ House is here to support. “Brad is only in Year 10, yet he is already building real industry experience,” Luke said. “That kind of initiative gives students a head start when it comes to apprenticeships and employment.”

The support continues when students return to Townsville. Brad plans to keep his fitness up at Planet Fitness with mates from Tec-NQ House. Luke says the routine of study, sport and social time helps boarders settle quickly. “First-year boarders do well when there is a clear rhythm to the week,” Luke added. “We set expectations around learning, wellbeing and behaviour, and the boys thrive with consistency.”

Food is also a highlight for many. When asked about his favourite part of boarding, Brad’s answer matched what so many boys say. “It’s the food,” he laughed. Luke agrees that good meals make a difference, “Our on-site chef prepares nutritious meals that the boys actually enjoy,” he said. “It keeps them fuelled for school, work placements and sport.”

As a boarder, Brad benefits from a supportive home base in Townsville. Tec-NQ House is a purpose-built boys-only boarding residence in Rosslea that provides accommodation for up to forty senior school students from regional and remote Queensland, giving them access to Tec-NQ’s trade-focused senior school program. The residence is designed to feel welcoming and homely, with 24/7 supervised care, air-conditioned double-occupancy rooms, modern communal areas, streaming services, computers, a secure outdoor recreation area with BBQ facilities, and a basketball court.

Staff-run after-hours sport and social activities, and regular excursions help boarders build strong friendships. Transport is provided to the Tec-NQ Douglas co-educational campus and to work placements when required. The setup removes barriers and lets students focus on learning and personal growth.

“Boarding gives young people independence with a safety net,” Luke said. “They learn to manage time, communicate well and be accountable. Those habits translate directly to the workplace.”

With practical experience near Clermont, a strong start to boarding life in Townsville, and a clear interest in boiler making, Brad is well on his way. He is learning the trade, building fitness, and finding his feet in a community that wants to see him succeed.

Keep it up, Brad. The spark you bring to your work today is forging a bright future.

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Sugar Growing Pioneer in the Cannon Valley District

Henry William Holmes was born 13th April 1873 in Stableford, Wiltshire England. His father, a village blacksmith, died in an accident when William was nine. When eleven, his mother remarried. Henry went to live on a farm where his Holmes’ uncles were tenants, then worked on the railways for several years.

Desirous to see the world, at age 18, he applied for assisted passage to Australia, sailing on the "Geelunga" arriving at Bowen in May 1892 with only five shillings in his pocket. Luckily, new migrants were given rations by the government until they found work.

Will Holmes’ first job was at "Breadalbane" Station, owned by Messrs. Waite Bros. He was a boundary rider for 20 months and was paid 10/- per week plus his keep. Will moved to Mackay for a short time, working on a sugar plantation before returning to Proserpine. In January 1894, he selected two blocks of land at Cannon Valley under the government homestead system, paying 2/6 per acre, and 10/- per acre for improvements. The block, beside Brandy Creek, was 160 acres of virgin bush. He had to fence it, build a hut, live on it and develop it - and complete payment within five years. Will named the land “Windermere”.

To pay for the land, Harry (as he had become known in the district) accepted a position for four years managing a farm for Mr. R. Carson of Bowen. He paid someone to do his fencing, and so gained the freehold of his property. In 1902, he returned to Cannon Valley to grow sugar cane, cutting his first crop in 1905.

Harry was married three times; sadly, losing his first two wives early on in life. He had six children; two from his first marriage and four from his second.

In 1925, Will had a severe accident whilst loading cane. His injuries left him with a permanent limp, and he used a walking stick for the rest of his life. He never fully recovered, though he still did a lot of the easier work, retaining his involvement in the farm up until the death of his third wife, Matilda, in 1957.

His son, Albert, by his first marriage, had been working full time on the farm for some nine years by then, and John, a son from his second marriage, joined him in 1928. After the successful application for a larger cane assignment, the farm ownership was divided three ways, making Albert and John equal partners with their father.

William (Harry) was very active in community affairs. In 1922, he donated ten acres for a school at Windermere and was Chairman of the Cannon Valley Hall committee. He was on the original hospital committee and the ambulance committee. In 1931, he served on the Canegrowers’ Executive and was on the local Cane Prices Board for ten years. He was a Shire Councillor for thirty years and a representative on the Bowen Harbour Board. He also became Grand Master of the Masonic Lodge.

A keen cricketer, he never missed a match on the Cannon Valley pitch next to his farm, sometimes umpiring. As he grew older, he indulged his love of reading and cultivated a good vegetable garden. He died in August 1963, aged 90 years, having gone to hospital only the previous day. A few years later, Holmes Street in Proserpine was named in his memory.

Postscript: The farm at Brandy Creek is still owned by the Holmes family. Henry William Holmes’ great grandson, Andrew Holmes, now works the land having taken over from his father, Keith, who was Albert’s son.

Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum and “Memories” written by Madge Holmes.

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Henry William Holmes. Photo supplied.

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The stage is set for a night of stories, song, and celebration when the Love Letter to Queensland event takes place tonight at the Whitsunday Sailing Club.

The special evening, part of the 2025 Whitsundays Writers Festival, will open at 6pm with an official welcome from Mayor Ry Collins. Guests will enjoy drinks and canapés before settling in for an inspiring program of speakers, performers and award presentations.

Headlining the event is internationally published, award-winning author Dr Anita Heiss, who will deliver the From the Heart keynote address. She will be joined by an impressive line-up including Gold Walkley Award-winning journalist Hedley Thomas, Queensland Literary Award winner Steve MinOn, prize-winning novelist and journalist Matthew Condon OAM, and Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP.

Adding a musical touch, Karen Jacobsen, will perform her original Love Song to Queensland, written especially for the occasion.

Mayor Collins will also announce the winners of the Love Letter to Queensland community writing competition across three age categories. The Adult division winner will receive a Daydream Island gift voucher valued at $1000, the Under 18 category will take home a $550 Tropix Photography voucher, and the Under 12 division will be awarded a Street Library Australia prize pack valued at $250, donated with books from Kitten Vintage Mackay. Highly Commended certificates will also be presented.

In addition, the evening will see the announcement of the Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards, supported by the Roderick Centre with cash prizes for winners.

With storytelling, song, and a celebration of creativity at its core, the Love Letter to Queensland event promises to be a highlight of the festival calendar.

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Meet Ruia

Ruia, a striking two to three-year-old Bull Arab cross, is looking for a second chance at life and a family to call her own. With her gentle nature and happy personality, this young dog has quickly won the hearts of everyone who meets her.

Believed to have a touch of Boxer in her mix, Ruia is described as affectionate, easy-going, and great with other dogs. She loves nothing more than spending time with people, sharing tummy rubs, and soaking up attention. Despite a difficult start, her loving spirit remains strong, and she’s ready to blossom in a safe and caring home.

Ruia’s Best Qualities:
• Friendly & affectionate
• Loves tummy rubs and human company
• Good with other dogs
• Happy, easy-going personality
• Will blossom with love and security

Ruia’s adoption package includes desexing, microchipping, vaccinations, and full flea, tick, and worm treatments. Her adoption fee is $650.

Message Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue on Facebook with your name and contact number to learn more or arrange a meet-and-greet.

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Hi Everyone,

It’s been a busy week back in the office, and I’m really enjoying being here! Since returning, I’ve also resumed my role at Eco Barge as a turtle carer. I absolutely love spending time with these incredible, peaceful animals.

Eco Barge is always looking for new volunteers, so if you have a few spare hours each week, consider lending a hand for this truly worthwhile cause!

This week, we have plenty for you to explore: stories on the Great Barrier Reef, sustainable sculpture awards, and much more—including a fun puzzle.

Happy reading!

Ruth

Did you know?
Moon jellyfish are 95% water and have no brain, heart, or blood—but they do have a nervous system that can sense light, balance, and touch.

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Day care centres, kindergartens and primary schools across the Whitsundays are being encouraged to get creative and eco-friendly in the 2025 Sustainable Sculpture Competition. Following the resounding success of last year’s event, organisers are excited to see what this year’s budding artists will produce.

The competition challenges children to transform recyclable and repurposed materials into sculptures, offering a hands-on way to learn about sustainability. From plastic bottles to newspapers and cardboard, students are encouraged to see waste in a new light — turning it into imaginative artworks that teach the importance of reducing, reusing, and recycling. By repurposing everyday materials, participants help keep items out of landfill and reduce greenhouse gas emissions — all while flexing their creative muscles.

This Year’s Theme

The 2025 theme invites participants to draw inspiration from either a favourite nursery rhyme or a local Whitsunday landmark. It’s a chance for children to combine creativity with environmental awareness, producing artworks that are both fun and meaningful.

Age Categories

The competition is open to three groups:

Early Years (0–5)

Prep – Year 2

Years 3–6

Each class or centre can submit one sculpture only, ensuring that every entry reflects a collective effort.

Judging and Prizes

All entries must be dropped off at local libraries between 27 October and 7 November. Residents can vote for their favourite sculptures in the People’s Choice Award, either online via the Your Say Whitsundays portal or in person at the library.

The three People’s Choice winners will then be blind-judged by Mayor Ry Collins. The winning class will receive a Proserpine Entertainment Centre gift voucher for each student (up to 30 vouchers), celebrating both their artistic talent and commitment to sustainability.

How to Enter

Register interest by 27 October

Deliver sculptures to your local library between 27 October and 7 November

People’s Choice voting runs 27 October – 7 November

Schools and centres can register via the online Expression of Interest form or email a completed entry form with category and contact details to yoursay@whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au
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With last year’s entries setting a high bar, organisers can’t wait to see this year’s imaginative creations. It’s time for Whitsunday students to get crafty, green, and inspired — and turn trash into treasure!

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A lovely sculpture previously made. Photo sourced.

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When most of us think about the Reef, we typically visualise diverse corals, a magnitude of fish species and other marine life. But the Reef is much more. We should think of the Reef as a system that starts at the high tide mark along the coast and continues out to outer edge of the continental shelf, in some areas, this may be up to 250 km off the coast.

This system is all connected by what is often referred to as the Blue Highway. The overall health of the Reef is entirely dependent on the health and connectivity of the system.

A good place to start exploring the system is the intertidal area of our coastline where we find the Mangrove forests. Mangroves play a vital role in the Reef system; protecting coastlines, filtering nutrients and trapping phytoplankton. They supply food, provide shelter and act as nurseries and breeding grounds for many fish and crustacean species. For example, baby snapper like the Mangrove Jack grows up in the tropical rivers and mangrove estuaries and then migrate 10’s of kilometres offshore to the coral reefs to spend their adult years.

Mangroves are an important ally in the fight against climate change as they absorb up to five times more carbon from the atmosphere than other trees.

Moving just offshore from the Mangroves, we find the all-important seagrass meadows. Seagrasses are underwater flowering plants that grow in the shallow intertidal area, and similarly to mangroves, they stabilise the seafloor preventing erosion. Seagrasses are also great sequesters of carbon. Seagrass beds are nursery grounds for juvenile fish and prawns, some of which play a vital role in our commercial fishing industries.

Highly productive seagrass beds also provide food for sea turtles and dugongs. The dugong is the world's only completely herbivorous marine mammal and are almost entirely dependent on seagrass. No seagrass, no dugong.

As we move away from the intertidal and out towards the coral reefs, we would encounter a seafloor that was once thought to be barren but is now seen as an important connection between inshore habitat and offshore habitat. The seafloor is covered with small coral outcrops known as isolates and inter-reef gardens of soft corals. These act as roadhouses for the many fish that move between the coral reefs and the intertidal.

Continuing seaward, we finally reach the great coral reef formations that give the Great Barrier Reef its name. Coral reefs are some of the most diverse habitats on the planet.

But now we understand that the connections to surrounding habitats, from the mangrove forests to the seagrass meadows to the isolates and inter-reef gardens has created and supports one of the richest and most complex natural ecosystems on earth, the Great Barrier Reef.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Conservation Council.

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The Great Barrier Reef from Space. Photo supplied.

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Farmers Join Forces to Protect the Reef

For generations, sugarcane has been a core aspect of the Proserpine region’s identity. From the vast green paddocks to the hum of harvest machinery, cane farming has shaped the landscape, economy, and community life of the district. Families who work this land carry with them not only the knowledge of farming, but also a deep connection to the creeks, wetlands, and reef systems that make the Proserpine catchment so unique.

Now, a new initiative is giving growers the opportunity to build on that legacy by improving chemical management on-farm. Reef Catchments, in partnership with Farmacist , is delivering the Supporting Practice Change to Reduce Water Quality Risk, a two-year project working closely with sugarcane farmers in the Proserpine catchment.

Reef Catchments Sustainable Agriculture manager, Todd McNeill, explains, "Sugarcane farming has long been an important part of the Proserpine region and continues to play a key role in the local community. This project supports growers in adopting practical changes that improve water quality while maintaining productivity.”

At its core, the project is grower-focused, designed to support farmers with practical tools and guidance. Farmers will work with agronomy experts on tailored chemical management plans, spray rig audits, and on-farm visits. Small financial incentives can help upgrade spray nozzles, making everyday work more efficient. Two hands-on workshops bring participants together to learn about weed identification, chemical handling, and spray rig calibration - providing a chance to share knowledge, ask questions, and learn the latest in innovative farming methods.

For growers, the benefits are both immediate and long-term. Better chemical use means reduced costs, improved efficiency, and smoother day-to-day farm management. As Senior Project Officer Kevin Moore explains, "Taking part in this project will give growers the know-how, tools, and a clear plan to use pesticides more efficiently. This means saving money, saving time, and making day-to-day farm work easier."

The project is part of the broader Proserpine Integrated Project (PIP), which is bringing together seven innovative initiatives to improve water quality across the catchment. From AI-driven technologies to circular economy solutions, PIP is designed to support growers and communities while reducing pollutants flowing to the Great Barrier Reef lagoon.

Todd explains, “Under PIP, growers are not working in isolation but as part of a wider coordinated approach across the catchment. By taking part, growers are exploring new tools and practices that support farm productivity while improving water quality across the catchment.”

If you’d like to improve chemical management on your farm, strengthen productivity, and be part of a project making a real difference for our community and environment, contact kevin.moore@reefcatchments.com

The Supporting Practice Change to Reduce Water Quality Risk is funded through the Queensland Government’s Queensland Reef Water Quality Program and delivered by Farmacist in partnership with Reef Catchments under the Proserpine Integrated Project.

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