Community News

Editor's Note 26 December

Editor's Note 26 December

Hello everyone, Christmas is finally here, presents are wrapped and tucked under the tree, fridges and cupboards are stocked with delicious treats and, if you’re lucky, family is close by and the kids are behaving themselves! This year, for the first time, we told the children they could buy a gift for each other. To be honest, I’m not sure why we hadn’t thought of it before, but I suppose they’re finally old enough to truly enjoy the experience and understand the joy that comes from choosing something special for someone you love. On Saturday morning, we headed down to the Airlie Beach Markets and it was an absolute delight to wander through the vibrant fair. A light breeze drifted through the stalls as passionate local business owners proudly showcased their wares, happy to chat, with some even saying they “always knock a little bit off for the kids”. From custom jewellery and hand crafted wooden sculptures to candles, soaps, bright trinkets and so much more, there was plenty to choose from. The children were thrilled as they searched for the perfect present for their sibling. As we come together at this special time of year, let’s remember that it’s the joy of giving that sits at the heart of Christmas, along with the importance of spending time with those we love. Let’s spare a thought for those who may be lonely, sad or unwell over the festive season, and hope they find connection, moments of uplift, and a share of Christmas cheer. To our loyal readers and valued advertisers, I wanted to take a moment to thank you for being such an important part of the paper throughout the year. I love seeing people eagerly pick up their copies from the stands each week, and hearing how much local businesses value the paper as a way to share their message with the community. Finally, a special thank you to our wonderful team here at the paper. Printing four weekly newspapers is no small task, and it’s your passion and dedication that make every day so magic. Rach Quote of the Week: "Christmas isn't a season . . . it's a feeling" (Edna Ferber)

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MRQ Whitsundays Called Out To Rescue

MRQ Whitsundays Called Out To Rescue

MRQ Whitsundays were called into action on December 15 after an emergency EPIRB was activated east of the commercial shipping channel. The distress signal came from a small Haines Hunter experiencing trouble offshore. Police vessel Damien Leeding was already responding when assistance was requested from the local volunteer rescue crew. Crew members Chris, Nat and John quickly prepared the vessel and departed Coral Sea Marina at 2:14pm. Conditions were favourable, with light winds and calm seas allowing for a smooth run towards the coordinates provided by the Rescue Coordination Centre in Canberra. As the crew approached the area east of Edward Island, updated information confirmed the police vessel had located the distressed boat and was towing it towards an intercept point. Upon arrival, the volunteers took over the tow and learned there were two people on board. The pair had lost their motor and were unable to restart it despite repeated attempts. Compounding the situation, their VHF radio could receive but not transmit, and a handheld backup radio also failed, leaving them unable to call for help and prompting the EPIRB activation. The disabled vessel was safely towed back through Hook Passage and delivered to the Port of Airlie public boat ramp just after 6.30pm. All parties returned safely, with the rescue completed without incident. The successful operation highlighted the importance of emergency beacons and the vital role played by local volunteer crews who stand ready to assist when needed on Whitsunday waters.

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Beautiful Tribute To Bondi Victims At Airlie Beach

Beautiful Tribute To Bondi Victims At Airlie Beach

On Saturday 20th December, the community came together along Airlie Beach foreshore to commemorate the victims of the tragic Bondi Beach attack. Local residents, visitors and members of Surf Life Saving Australia gathered for three minutes of silence at 8am to remember those who lost their lives in the horrific shooting that has left the nation in mourning. The event was organised by local Maz McDougall, who read the poetry of Billie Kinder, a young girl who tragically lost her own life at the age of 12 in 2016. Despite the pain and sadness evoked by the tragedy, the poetry spoke of hope and love, bringing people together during this incredibly difficult time. Following the three minutes silence, local resident Glinda played the Shofar, a traditional Jewish instrument, sounding it 15 times for the 15 victims. Everyone who had gathered then walked into the water, planting flowers amongst the waves in memory of the victims. Amongst the collection of roses, was a sunflower for 10 year old victim Matilda Bee. Though a solemn occasion, this event signified the amazing capacity for compassion and remembrance that can occur in the wake of tragedy. It is an important reminder that we should not be divided nor succumb to hate. Many communities have joined together across Australia, to highlight that no one should have their life taken in the name of race, religion or background. It is a symbol that as a country of diversity and tolerance, we stand together and hope to build a brighter future where everyone can walk the streets safely, regardless of their culture.

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A Year of Community, Connection and Looking Ahead

A Year of Community, Connection and Looking Ahead

As we head into the Christmas season, it’s a timely moment to pause and reflect on the year that was across Mackay and The Whitsundays - a year defined by resilience, community spirit and people looking out for one another. Throughout the year, I’ve had the privilege of meeting with residents, businesses, volunteers, emergency services and community groups right across our region. From local markets and school events to business visits and community celebrations, it’s been inspiring to see the strength and pride people have in where we live. Our towns have come together time and again - supporting small businesses, celebrating local talent, and showing compassion when times have been tough. Events like the Proserpine Christmas Twilight Fair highlighted exactly what makes our region special: people working together, welcoming families, and creating moments of joy that bring the whole community together. This year has also reinforced how important it is to keep advocating for practical outcomes - stronger support for families, investment in regional services, backing local businesses and ensuring our communities are well prepared for challenges, including severe weather during the summer months. As Christmas approaches, I want to acknowledge and thank the many volunteers, frontline workers and emergency services who give their time and energy to keep our community safe, connected and supported - often while others are spending time with loved ones. Your service does not go unnoticed. To everyone across Mackay and The Whitsundays, I wish you a safe, happy and restful Christmas. May the coming weeks bring time with family and friends, moments to recharge, and hope for the year ahead. I look forward to continuing to work alongside our community in the new year, building on what we’ve achieved and supporting the people who make our region such a wonderful place to call home. Merry Christmas and best wishes for a safe and positive New Year. Contributed with thanks to Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP

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Better Built Sheds

Looking Back on a Big Year for the Whitsundays

December 23, 2025

With Mayor Ry Collins

Hi all,

As we reach the end of 2025, I’ve been reflecting on my second year as Mayor and the enormous amount of planning, progress and partnership that has taken place across our region. It’s been a big year and not just for Council, but for every community, every family and every business that calls the Whitsundays home.

One of our biggest focuses this year has been planning for improved liveability right across the region. With the Whitsundays continuing to grow at record pace, it’s essential that we stay ahead of the curve: improving parks, roads, footpaths, sporting facilities and the everyday services that make a difference in people’s lives.

Local government often gets summed up as “roads, rates and rubbish,” but the reality is that Council plays a far broader role and we’re busy planning now for the kind of communities we want our children and grandchildren to grow up in.

Many of the major projects you’ve heard about recently across Cannonvale, Proserpine, Bowen and Collinsville are the result of months (and in some cases, years) of careful preparation, community consultation and detailed design.

Good planning takes time, but it’s how we build stronger, safer, better-connected towns that future generations will be proud of. And this year, I’ve really felt the community lean in. Whether it was shaping master plans, turning up at workshops, giving feedback online or simply stopping for a chat in the street, your ideas and local knowledge continue to guide the decisions we make.

I’d also like to thank every volunteer, every club, every community group and every resident who plays a part in making this region such a special place. Council’s role is important, but it’s the spirit of our people that truly sets the Whitsundays apart.

Mayor Ry Collins

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Taking Care Of Mental Health During The Holiday Season

December 23, 2025

Holidays can be a tough time for many. Despite it being a festive celebratory season, many may struggle due to increased loneliness, isolation, stress and anxiety. Expectations for perfect celebrations paired with a feeling of missing out can compound pre-existing issues. It is important to acknowledge these feelings and get help where possible.

The holiday season can prove difficult for a number of reasons. Pressure to spend money on gifts, food, travel and gatherings can create financial strain. A comparison to the celebrations of others can increase loneliness.

Grief especially can be amplified due to triggers. This is important acknowledge given the recent tragic events at Bondi and the mourning that many members of the community are still going through.

Here are some ways to look after your mental health this holiday season.

Strategies

Finding Community:

Establishing some kind of community or social connection can be the best way to cope with feelings of loneliness and isolation during the holiday period. Connecting with friends and family where possible through phone calls and virtual meetings is a great way to stay in touch when distance proves challenging. Volunteering in community events tied to the holiday period is also a great way to meet others and find fulfilment in doing work with others. Consider social groups, community events and positive online forums as a means of finding connection

Managing Finances:

Set a budget and stick to it to avoid overspending. There are gifts that can be incredibly thoughtful and not expensive. Catering unique and fun gifts to people and their passions and interests is a great way to maintain festive cheer whilst also not breaking the bank. Stick to lists to maintain budgets and involve impulse buying. Also consider setting boundaries about spending to ensure no one is put under strain to provide for one another.

Managing Expectations:

During the celebratory season, striving for perfection and enforcing a comparison to whats shown in media can only amplify stress and feelings of loneliness. It's important to distinguish from the ideal and perfect representations of whats shown on social media and in film and TV. Remember that family does not have to be blood-related and that connection can be found in friends and community. Focus more on enjoyable moments than striving for overall perfection.

Overall Tips for Wellbeing:

There are many simple things that can be done to maintain wellbeing. These include:

  • Using planners and calendars to stay organised
  • Reducing excessive screentime, especially on social media
  • Be open to changes in routines and expectations, being flexible can open the door to new positive experiences
  • Document thoughts and feelings in a journal so that you can approach them with greater clarity
  • Employ mindfulness techniques such as meditation
  • Limit self-pressure and allow time to unwind where possible

It is important to know that you are not alone in your struggles during this holiday season. There are many means of seeking support. The below is a list of numbers for various support groups and hotlines.

Lifeline (13 11 14)
Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network ((07) 4945 2858)
Queensland Mental Health Services (1300 642 255)

There are many people in the community that you can reach out to if you feel lonely or sad this Christmas. Call Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network ((07) 4945 2858) to connect with people who can help

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Christmas Message From Acting Inspector Anthony Moynihan

December 23, 2025

As the year draws to a close, I wanted to take a moment to pause and celebrate the strength, resilience, and remarkable sense of community that I’ve seen in the Whitsundays. This year, the unwavering support shown by residents across our region has been nothing short of inspiring. I want thank each of you for the support you show the Queensland Police every day.

Throughout 2025, we’ve witnessed extraordinary acts of kindness, collaboration, and unity. Whether it was lending a hand to those facing hardship, cheering on local businesses, or coming together to advocate for what’s right, our community has proven time and time again that we embody the true Aussie spirit of mateship.

Recently, a disturbing incident captured on social media highlighted not only the importance of vigilance but also the power of community standing together. Amidst the shock that followed such an offence, our community banded together, sharing information and offering crucial assistance to the police. Thanks to your swift action, the offenders were promptly dealt with, reassuring everyone that the values of safety, respect, and justice are healthy here in our community.

Your strong sense of care and determination to do what’s right underpins what makes the Whitsundays such a special place to live. You’ve shown that when we work together, incredible things can be achieved.

As we prepare to welcome the new year, let’s continue to prioritise each other’s wellbeing. A small act of kindness or a moment of courage protects our friends, family, and neighbours. Let’s keep looking out for each other, making responsible decisions, and ensuring that our roads and public spaces remain safe for everyone.

We encourage everyone to celebrate responsibly over the holiday season. Please don’t drink and drive. Consider organising a designated driver, using local transport options, or arranging for safe ways to get to and from festive gatherings. Every choice you make can help protect not only your own life but the lives of others too.

Thank you, Whitsundays, for your outstanding support and dedication over the past 12 months. It is your commitment to community well-being and your consistent care for one another that make this place a bright, welcoming home to all. Let’s continue this positive momentum into 2026, ensuring safety, kindness, and integrity remain at the heart of our region.

By the way the Broncos are going back to back in 2026…..

Stay safe, take care of one another, and we’ll see you in the new year!

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Crime Reports Flood Facebook Pages

December 23, 2025

What is happening in the Whitsundays?

Around 80 per cent of Australians use Facebook, with approximately 40 per cent relying on it as their primary source of news. In the Whitsundays, community members frequently use local Facebook groups such as 'Whitsundays Chat' and 'Whitsunday’s Noticeboard' to stay informed about events in the region. These platforms are commonly used to share information and raise concerns, with an increasing number of alleged incidents being reported to the broader community.

Over the past week, more than four alleged incidents have been reported across local social media groups.

One report involved a young boy who was allegedly assaulted by three other boys. Following the incident, members of the community, including Ian Wilson, posted on Facebook to check on the boy’s wellbeing after a video of the incident was allegedly removed from the platform.

Another report related to an alleged sexual assault. A woman shared details of the incident on Facebook, describing the alleged perpetrator as: “Around 6'1, medium to large build."

Cassandra said she had “notified the police” and shared the information publicly in an effort to help ensure community safety. She also described the incident as “crazy,” stating that the Whitsundays is the only place she “feels safe to walk home in the dark.”

Visitor Izzy Ferrada also posted on the Whitsundays Chat Facebook group, alleging her suitcase was stolen from a communal area at the Airlie Searene Apartments. According to Izzy, she had “left, [her] suitcase in the communal entrance for around 20 minutes, and then when [she] returned [her] bag was gone.”

On December 13, local resident Max Davies reported another alleged incident on the Whitsundays Chat Facebook group. He claimed someone attempted to break into his home at around “4:30am,” resulting in a “fair amount of damage to the front door,” and asked anyone with footage or knowledge of the incident to contact him directly.

Questions remain over whether all alleged incidents shared on social media are also being formally reported to police, and what motivates residents to turn to online platforms in the first place.

Police have identified the practice of posting about suspicious or alleged criminal activity online without first alerting authorities as problematic. Reliance on social media can delay police responses, and public posts may lack the detailed or verified information required for effective action.

Throughout the years, police have urged the public to immediately call 000 in the event of suspicious activity or an alleged crime. For non-urgent matters, people can phone 131 444, and for anonymous tippers, they can phone Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000.

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Photo of the Week 26 December

December 23, 2025

by Carolyn Roberts

This weeks photo was taken as the flames died down from a bushfire at Midge Point and the theme was 'Favourite Photo of 2025'.

These photographs are submitted by the Whitsundays Amateur Photographers group.

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December 27th 1985

December 23, 2025

Squatters At Nellie Bay. The Land Administration Commission invited the 64 squatters on land at Nellie Bay and Jonah Bay to take up land but only 10 showed any interest. One of the conditions was the payment of a development fee of $8,150.

Shire Council Engineer’s Duties. A special council meeting enlarged the engineers duties to include a role in long and medium term planning of the Works Programme.
Council Travels. The Shire Council held its meeting away from council chambers at Wanderers Paradise last week.

Obituary: William Douglas Davy died aged 70. Doug, a local long time resident, and  World War II exserviceman with the Engineers in New Guinea, had spent many years on Hayman before returning to take over the Cannonvale Store.
Jessie Victoria [Biddy] Hicks died in her late seventies. She was brought up in Strathdickie and attended the old Strathdickie School.

Air-Sea Rescue Base. 28 enthusiastic volunteer workers completed foundations for the base in Cannonvale. The development of full air-sea rescue facilities is planned as the beginning of a new era of boating safety in the Whitsundays.

Bowen/Whitsunday Drive In; Speilburg’s latest  “Battle Beyond The Stars.”

Racing Yacht to compete in National titles in Tasmania. “Skeeta” with a four man crew left Airlie on the 7000 km trip.

Bowling Lease. Council has applied for a 20 year lease on land in Jubilee Pocket for the Airlie Beach Bowling Club.

Tuckshop for Cannonvale School. A new modern tuckshop will be built at Cannonvale School   .” It is only fitting for a growing school the size of Cannonvale” quoted state member Geoff Muntz.

Botanic Park has been proposed for Cannonvale as the Bicentennial project for the district.

Under 12 Queensland Cricket Championships In Proserpine. This week long carnival concluded on friday with the presentation of trophies by Proserpine cricket president Peter Lewis. N.Q President,Alan Hobson congratulated the local committee on its successful organisation. The winning team was South-East Queensland.

Indoor Bowls. This week’s winners were Carlo Raiteri and Betty Lamb over runners up M.Spencer and Bob McLeod..

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A Busy Bushfire Season for Bowen Delta Rural Fire Brigade

December 23, 2025

The Bowen Delta Rural Fire Brigade have been hard at work, fighting bushfires across the region amidst the heated December season. Comprised of volunteer rural firefighters, the team have been dedicated to extinguishing flames as December saw increased fire danger with the typical summer heat.

The brigade have responded to calls across the region notably fighting fires in Mt Aberdeen, Merinda, Pring Rail Yards, Jochiem Rd and Longford Creek over the last month. It has been a tremendous effort on the part of the volunteers and the Whitsunday region is incredibly grateful for their work. It is important to stay safe during hotter periods and alert authorities of any percieved danger.

Tips To Ensure You Are Bush Fire Aware

It is important to ensure adequate preparation is made to protect you and your home from bushfires. A well-prepared home is easier to defend during a bushfire and helps reduce risks to surrounding properties. Make sure you clear gutters and roofs of leaves, twigs, and debris, consider installing gutter guards, and seal gaps in roofing and cladding.

Enclose areas under decks and floors, maintain pumps, generators, and water systems, and remove flammable items such as woodpiles, mulch, furniture, and hanging baskets from near the home.

Keep lawns mown, trim low branches to two metres, and reduce vegetation along access paths. Clearly display your house number and maintain fire truck access.

Prepare protective clothing, evacuation and first aid kits, review insurance and your Bushfire Survival Plan annually, note your Neighbourhood Safer Place, plan for pets, and develop contingency plans for unexpected situations.

For more information please go to fire.qld.gov.au.

Recent fires taking place in and around Bowen over the last month. Photos sourced

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Bowen Visitor Info Centre Prepares

December 23, 2025

To Be Busy Over Festive Season

The Bowen Visitor Information Centre next to the Big Mango will be closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day but will re-open between Christmas and New Year.

The team expects this to be a very busy period with so many travellers on the road at this time each year.

It has been a record year for the centre with more than 56,000 visitors in the past financial year and a further 37,000 visitors from July 1 until December 15.

The figures from the last financial year represented a nine per cent increase on the previous year and the records have continued to be broken in recent months.

July was a record month with 9462 visitors - an average of more than 300 a day!

September was also a very busy month with two record days – 539 visitors on September 26 when the Big Mango minted coin was released and then 545 visitors on September 29.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said it had been an exciting year with the team picking up several awards at regional and State level.

“Our Visitor Information Centre continues to be one of the busiest in Queensland and we are proud to be able to encourage so many of our guests to take the detour into Bowen and discover our hidden gem at the top of the Whitsundays,” she said.

The centre has a large range of local produce and merchandise including delicious mango sorbet and it is also a Driver Reviver Station.

The Driver Reviver program encourages everyone to take a break, promoting road safety. Free tea, coffee, biscuits and water are available, and it is a great spot to stop, halfway between Mackay and Townsville.

OPENING HOURS
Christmas Eve – 9am – 3pm
Christmas Day - Closed
Boxing Day – closed
Saturday December 27 – 10am-3pm
Sunday December 28 – 10am-3pm
Monday December 29 – 9am-5pm
Tuesday December 30 – 9am-5pm
New Year’s Eve – 9am – 3pm
New Year’s Day – closed

Colin and Julie-Ann Patterson from Bundaberg pictured with Bowen Tourism and Business volunteers, Kim and Ray Tannock on Friday, December 19. Photo supplied

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A Christmas Message From Burdekin MP Dale Last

December 23, 2025

With 2025 now sitting fairly in our tailwinds, this week will see many of us have a chance to come together for the festive season.

As the Member for Burdekin I have the privilege of witnessing the best of humanity in our
communities, especially at Christmas time. Each year we see residents take the time to donate to our local community organisations who provide hampers of non-perishable goods, toys for children or a hot meal to enjoy on Christmas Day. We also see the generosity of our communities in the simple acts- the time we take to check in on our neighbours a smile or simple gesture of kindness to a stranger. It is this level of generosity that we must continue to strive for beyond the festive season.

A year that started with much of our state facing significant flooding has brought with it challenges and opportunities for the betterment of our community.

While our neighbours in the north bared much of the brunt of monsoonal rainfall in February, it is safe to say the Burdekin electorate was not left unscathed. As flood waters receded and our community faced its own clean-up we saw businesses step up to prepare extra meals and provide essential services while our emergency services volunteers showed utmost dedication in our community’s darkest hours.

Our ability as a community to advocate for better access to health, improvement of our safety or providing certainty for projects that matter to us has meant that in the Crisafulli Government’s first year we have seen funding committed to upgrades for our sporting teams, the Bruce Highway and the Bowen Boat Harbour Master Plan.

Before we turn the chapter to 2026 and begin the rush of a new year I hope you and your family have the chance to enjoy the festive season. Spend time with those you love and celebrate all that 2025 has had to offer while looking towards opportunities for the new year.

If you are packing the car and heading off on a road trip please drive safely and remember the fatal five. With the festive season coinciding with the North’s severe weather season, it’s a timely reminder to ensure your home is prepared.

My office will be closed from December 22 and will re-open January 5.

Above all else, I’d like to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year.

Yours,

Dale

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Experience Matters. Results Speak.

December 23, 2025

$98 Million in Sales | Whitsundays 2025

Our Whitsundays office has delivered an exceptional result for a highly specialised team of just three agents.

In 2025 we achieved multiple record-breaking sales, setting new benchmarks across the region. From much-loved family homes to the Whitsundays’ most significant estates, our results reflect a consistent, strategic approach, regardless of price point.

We don’t define luxury by a price, it is defined by experience, presentation, global reach and execution. Exceptional care, insight and professionalism are applied to every property we represent.

As a locally based team who live and invest in the Whitsundays, we are proud to see continued momentum building into 2026, with further growth on the horizon.

Queensland Sotheby’s Whitsundays remains the agency of choice in the region, whether selling a family home or an iconic coastal estate.

We wish everyone a Merry Christmas, a Happy New Year and a prosperous 2026.

Thinking of selling? Let’s talk.
Wayne Singleton 0416 024 168
Lynn Milsom 0415 039 060
Joe Bishop 0415 070 114

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Community Connection

December 23, 2025

Locals helping locals. It’s kind of our thing.

We’re not just a law firm, we’re part of the Whitsunday community. Sharing a building with local agents and accountants means you’ve got a team of professionals working nearby, and often, together.
We believe in small-town trust with big-picture thinking. You’ll see us at community events, school expos, and probably at the local coffee shop too.

Whitsunday Law – Why settle for good?

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Merry Christmas from Accountancy Plus

December 23, 2025

We, at Accountancy Plus Whitsunday Pty Ltd, would like to wish our clients, friends and family a very merry Christmas and happy and safe New Year.

Our offices are closed from 5pm Tuesday 23 December 2025 reopening 9:00am Monday 12 January 2026.

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Leading When Everyone’s Mentally Checked Out. . .

December 23, 2025

If leadership had a pressure-test month, December would be it.

Christmas doesn’t create workplace dysfunction — it reveals it. Teams with strong communication glide into year-end like a well-oiled machine. Teams with poor leadership can crumble faster than New Year Resolutions, with everyone blaming “the busy season” instead of taking a little bit of accountability.

The best leaders don’t guilt people for being tired. They expect it and then plan for it. They strip out the distractions and ask the only real question that matters: “What actually needs to happen before we switch off for the year?”

Effective leaders then do something next-level - they say “No”. “No” to pointless new December initiatives; “no” to managers who confuse urgency with importance. And “NO WAY” to anyone replying to emails after hours.

The reality is that leadership over the Christmas period is less about driving performance and more about directing energy. People are stretched, overstimulated, and fatigued from family expectations. If you model burnout as a festive tradition, don’t be shocked when it becomes contagious. Leaders who burn out teach their team that burnout is normal and somewhat expected, which is a seriously business-limiting culture. Your job isn’t to push harder — it’s to guide smarter.

Cut the overwhelm. Be specific. Celebrate loudly. Remind your team that the finish line is near.

Christmas leadership isn’t soft. It’s strategic, human, and authentic – with a little bit of chaos thrown in. But wrap it in humour, sprinkle in compassion, and the January-version of you will thank the December-version for setting you up for successful downtime – and so will the rest of your team!

Contributed with thanks to July Porter (Shiift)

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Bright Patch Café Hits the Ground Running

December 23, 2025

Bright Patch Café is fast carving out a place as one of the community’s most welcoming meeting spots, just over a month after opening its doors. Designed with families firmly in mind, the café has already built a loyal following and is continuing to grow its offerings both behind the counter and beyond it.

Newly appointed manager Sally Griffith has stepped into the role with more than two decades of hospitality experience. A familiar face in the community and a strong advocate for neurodivergent families, Sally said the café’s values align perfectly with her own. Plans are already underway to introduce table service in the new year, further supporting parents and carers during their visit.

The team has also expanded, welcoming chefs Christian and Nat, both with backgrounds in high-end restaurants, along with barista Hannah, whose specialty coffee skills are already making an impression.

All staff hold Blue Cards and police checks, reinforcing the café’s family-first approach.

Bright Patch Café also operates seven days a week, responding to growing demand from locals who have embraced it as a regular gathering place.

Community engagement has been a key focus, with mothers’ groups, family daycare providers and schools making regular use of the space. A recent school visit turned the café into a hands-on learning environment, blending food activities with practical life skills.

With a popular all-day menu, a thoughtfully designed children’s area and a busy events calendar ahead, Bright Patch Café is quickly proving it is much more than just a place to grab a coffee.

Bright Patch Café owner Jameela Walker and Manager Sally Griffith. Photo supplied

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Tourism Whitsundays

December 23, 2025

Welcomes Jolie Rochell, Marketing Coordinator

Tourism Whitsundays has welcomed a new face to its marketing team, with Jolie Rochell stepping into the role of Marketing Coordinator earlier this month.

Jolie works across brand and digital marketing, supporting campaigns and partnerships that promote The Whitsundays to audiences around the world. With a multinational background, a key part of her role includes shaping a clear engaging messaging that supports sustainable growth while showcasing what sets the region apart on the global stage.

Since moving to the Whitsundays at the start of the year, she has been struck by the warm welcome from the local community and the diversity of events and activities available year-round for both residents and visitors.

“The turquoise water is iconic, but it was the people who really stood out,” she said.

“Since moving here at the start of the year, I have felt genuinely welcomed and included by the local community from day one.”

In her new role, Jolie is looking forward to collaborating closely with the Tourism Whitsundays team and local members to find fresh and creative ways to promote the region.

“I want our marketing to reflect the witty, friendly personality of The Whitsundays while building strong partnerships that support long-term care for the region,” she says.

Despite its small size, Jolie believes the region offers far more than many people expect.

“That even includes a weekly Latin dance group called Whitsunday Salsa, where locals and visitors come together to learn and dance. And yes, it’s free!"

Tourism Whitsundays Marketing Coordinator Jolie Rochell

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