Seagrass is thriving off the Isaac region’s coastline according to the latest monitoring data collected by the Healthy Rivers to Reef Partnership.

Researchers have been able to track seagrass condition off Clairview’s coastline for the past seven years, thanks to continued investment from Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal Pty Ltd (DBCT P/L, also known locally as Daly Bay) and Dalrymple Bay Infrastructure (DBI).

Principal Research Scientist at James Cook University’s Centre for Tropical Water and Ecosystems Research (TropWATER), Professor Michael Rasheed has led the collection of seagrass data since monitoring began in 2017.

Using a low-flying helicopter, Professor Rasheed and his team survey at least 145 intertidal sites across three meadows – two along the shoreline, and one at Flock Pigeon Island.

“After seven years of the annual monitoring program, seagrasses in the Southern Inshore Zone are in some of the best condition to date, indicating a healthy marine environment, with water quality and environmental conditions favourable for seagrass growth,” Professor Rasheed said.

“In the latest data, we are seeing some really positive signs with the two mainland meadows recording their highest ever results for area and biomass indicators.

“The southern mainland meadow in particular has shown a continuous expansion in spatial area year-on-year since 2017, which is great to see.”

DBCT P/L Manager of Safety, Risk and Environment Ricci Churchill has experienced the seagrass field work first-hand.

“I was so grateful to join the JCU TropWater scientists as they completed their seagrass surveys a few years ago, and to experience it knowing that the research is possible thanks to funding from DBCT P/L and DBI,” Ms Churchill said.

“At DBCT P/L, we are very proud of our investment into the Southern Inshore Monitoring Program, because prior to 2017 there was no data available for seagrass, coral or water quality in this reporting region.

“Now, after almost a decade of monitoring, we have a strong dataset that continues to grow, and the ability to provide meaningful information to the community about the health of the local marine environment.”

Most recently, DBCT P/L and DBI committed $415,000 to fund the Southern Inshore Monitoring Program for an additional three years, ensuring the collection of data on coral, seagrass and water quality through to June 2026.

DBI Site Manager Tim Ffrost said supporting the monitoring program was a natural fit for DBI.

“Our operator, Daly Bay first introduced the Southern Inshore Monitoring Program to us in 2019, and straight away we saw it was a natural fit, and we were really excited to be involved,” Mr Ffrost said.

“The marine environment is critically important and being able to contribute to ongoing monitoring and data collection of this ecosystem ties back to one of our key objectives of understanding and protecting the condition of our local environment.

“We also see a lot of value in local partnerships because by collaborating and pooling resources like we’ve done with this program, you can achieve greater outcomes for both the environment and the community.”
The latest seagrass grades will be published in the Healthy Rivers to Reef Waterway Health Report Card, due for release in July 2025.

For more information on the Southern Inshore Monitoring program, visit www.healthyriverstoreef.org.au.

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DBCT P/L Manager of Safety, Risk and Environment Ricci Churchill and DBI Site Manager Tim Ffrost look at the latest Southern Inshore results. Photos supplied

JCU TropWATER team Chris Van de Wetering and Professor Michael Rasheed undertaking seagrass field surveys at Clairview

Cinzia Cattaneo, Jaime Newborn (Healthy Rivers to Reef Partnership), Professor Michael Rasheed (JCU TropWATER), Ricci Churchill (DBCT P/L), Tim Ffrost (DBI) and Chris Van de Wetering (JCU TropWATER)

JCU TropWATER’s Chris Van de Wetering records seagrass data while up in the helicopter

A helicopter is used to survey the large areas of seagrass off the coast of Clairview

An aerial view of the Southern Inshore Marine zone at high tide

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Country Fest Queensland Saddles Up For A Massive Weekend In Bloomsbury

With cowboy boots dusted off and the sweet scent of fresh-cut grass in the air, Country Fest Queensland is set to roll back into Bloomsbury from June 27–28, promising two days of music, mateship and good old-fashioned country hospitality under the stars.

The paddocks are primed, the line-up’s locked in, and the buzz is building – from long-time fans to curious first-timers, there’s plenty to be excited about.

Among them is Mackay local Bianca O’Connor, who scored VIP tickets online.

“We’re big fans of James Johnston,” said Bianca.

“They’re bringing country music to the northern region of Queensland and I think it’s great to support local and international artists… they’ve really given us an opportunity to see live music again.”

For headline act James Johnston, the event strikes a chord on a personal level.

“Country Fest Queensland is everything I love about country music,” he said.

“It’s out underneath the stars, there’s plenty of beer… there’s bucking bulls and great country music.”

Fresh off the back of chart-topping tracks like Raised Like That, Johnston’s grounded, storytelling style continues to resonate.

“My songs are stories from my upbringing or the life I’m living now,” he said.

“I just bought a little farm with my family, and I’ve got a bunch of new songs coming out about those stories.”

Now living in the Sunshine State, Johnston says returning to the Mackay region always feels special.

“Country music is born in regions like Mackay… I feel like I’m just part of the crowd.

“For so many years, I used to be out there watching events like this… now the fact that I get to be on that stage singing my songs, it always makes it really special.”

Behind the scenes, excitement is also running high.

Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson said council is proud to support the event for a third year.

“This isn’t just a music festival – it’s a celebration of the region and a boost for our local economy,” he said.

“We’re expecting more than 4,000 people, and with weather like this, you never know… they might just stay for a while!”

Festival Director Regan Anderson said the program encourages campers to arrive early and soak up the atmosphere.

“It’s got a real honky tonk feel to it,” he said.

“We’ve got people coming from across the country – and even New Zealand. The line-up’s phenomenal, and the PBR bull riding will be absolutely world-class.”

From Max McNown to Randy Houser, the stage is stacked and the vibes are strong.

“It’s gonna be a hell of a night,” Johnston said.

“I’m just excited to see everyone out there.”

Tickets are selling fast…so dust off your boots, round up your crew, and get set for a weekend of live music, open skies and pure country magic!

Get your tickets now at www.countryfest.com.au

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Country Fest Queensland returns to Bloomsbury on June 27–28, promising two days of unforgettable country music, mateship, and down-to-earth hospitality, featuring headline act James Johnston and a lineup sure to bring the region alive under open skies. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Respected Detective Hangs Up The Badge

By Hannah McNamara

What began as a fascination with the police force while watching the popular TV show Cops in the ’90s has transformed into a legacy spanning nearly three decades: one marked by blood, sweat, and a quiet commitment to uncovering some of the region’s most confronting crimes.

Retired Detective Sergeant Paul Arnold officially signed off last Wednesday during an emotional “piping out” ceremony held at Mackay Police Station, where officers past and present gathered to honour his service and bid farewell.

When asked how he got involved in the police force, he humorously said “It’s a bit cliché, but it was all because of a TV show called Cops.

“I applied for the job in my local area and to my surprise, I was successful,” said Mr Arnold.

Known for his steady leadership, mentorship, and unshakeable ties to the Mackay community, Mr Arnold’s retirement at age 60 brings to a close a distinguished chapter in Queensland policing.

Many officers across the region count Mr Arnold as a pivotal figure in their careers.

District Officer Superintendent for Mackay and the Whitsundays, Dean Cavanagh, reflected on his early years under Arnold’s guidance.

“I was a young detective under Paul – I learned a lot from him,” he said.

“It’s sad to see someone with so much experience leave, but it’s exciting to see him start a well and truly well-deserved retirement.”

“It’s fantastic to see him reach that milestone…especially in investigative roles, which are very demanding.”

For Mr Arnold, the day brought mixed emotions. Grateful for the recognition, he was deeply moved as he reflected on the people, moments, and memories that had shaped his career.

“I wonder where the years have all gone,” he pauses.

“I’ve had a wonderful time in the police service,” he said.

“I’ve done things that other people won’t do. I’ve seen things that a lot of people don’t want to see, or never get the opportunity to see…But what I have had is the privilege of working with some incredible people along the way.”

Mentorship, he said, was one of the most fulfilling aspects of the job.

“To have had the opportunity to teach and mentor people and watch them progress in the organisation…it’s a great privilege.”

One case that left a lasting mark on him was the death of Jason Garrels in 2012 – a tragedy that brought the community together in pursuit of justice.

“There’s probably one job that stands out, and that is the death of Jason Garrels,” Mr Arnold said, as tears filled his eyes.

“The courage of that family, and Michael Garrels in particular, was… it was just an incredible job to be involved in.

“To watch groups of people come together to get the result… was very touching, and it’s a case I’ll never forget.”

Among the heavy cases were lighter moments too, like the time he solved a robbery involving a not-so-clever disguise.

“I had an armed robber who had used a sock to mask his face – with eyeholes cut out,” he laughed.

“He vehemently denied committing the offence, but when he took his shoes off in the interview room… he had one sock on.”

“That ultimately led to searching his room and finding the other sock – with the eyeholes cut out... And from that, it led to a successful arrest and conviction.”

After officially graduating from the Oxley Police Academy in 1996, Mr Arnold served in South Brisbane before taking up a permanent position at West End Station. He transferred to Mackay CIB in 2000 and spent the next 25 years dedicated to the Mackay CIB and CPIU teams.

While his journey began with Cops on TV, it unfolded into something far more profound.

“It’s been way better than Cops,” he smiled.

With retirement now officially underway, Mr Arnold is planning to spend quality time with his wife, three children, and his first grandchild – Albie Paul, who proudly carries his grandfather’s name.

“I’ve got a new grandson I’d love to spend some time with, and my family... and we’ll do some travel.”

And while their travels may take them far, Mr Arnold says Mackay will always be home.

“Where we end up, I’m not sure… but I look forward to the journey.”

His parting wisdom to the next generation of officers is to “Work hard. Be inquisitive. And have the courage to stand by what you believe in.”

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Masquerade Mayhem At Catherine McAuley College

Don your mask, lace up your finest frock, and prepare for an evening of intrigue, illusion and ill-fated love – because the bard himself is calling you to Catherine McAuley College for a night like no other.

On Saturday 21 June, the CMC Murder Mystery will whisk guests away to 16th-century Verona, where a grand masquerade ball is being held to celebrate the union of Juliet Capulet and the mysterious Count Erfit. But as history has shown – where there are masks, there may also be murder.

This adults-only soirée promises an evening dripping in drama and decadence, with guests assigned their secret identities on arrival. Will you be a Capulet, celebrating in splendour? Or a Montague, crashing the party in disguise? You’ll find out when you enter the grand hall.
Amid the candlelight and whispers, one thing is certain – a crime will unfold, and you’ll be part of the story to uncover who’s behind it. Was it a jealous suitor? A bitter cousin? Or a love-struck rogue with vengeance in their heart?

Your ticket includes a welcome drink, a lavish three-course meal catered by Sinful Kitchen, and a night of captivating entertainment. There will be a bar onsite with drink tokens available for pre-purchase to keep the revelry flowing.

Costumes of all kinds are welcome – just don’t forget your mask. After all, in Verona, nothing is quite what it seems.

So rally your fellow nobles (tables seat ten), dust off your cloak, and prepare to step into Shakespeare’s world – where passion burns bright, secrets run deep, and not everyone makes it out alive.

Only five tables remain, and tickets are disappearing faster than Romeo at curfew.

Catherine McAuley College Murder Mystery Masquerade Ball
What: An immersive masquerade ball with a Shakespearean twist, featuring a murder mystery to unravel. Guests will be assigned secret identities upon arrival and will enjoy a welcome drink, a three-course meal by Sinful Kitchen, and captivating entertainment.
When: Saturday, 21 June 2025, from 6:00 PM to 10:30 PM AEST
Where: Catherine McAuley College, 239 Nebo Rd, West Mackay
Tickets: Available now via Humanitix.
Please note: This is an 18+ event. Parking is available via the Nebo Road entrance and at the rear of the building with access on Field Street. The Field Street access will be locked after midnight.

Don't miss this unforgettable evening of mystery and masquerade!

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Soon after I arrived in Mackay I was talking with a middle-aged couple who mentioned they had been to a particular restaurant and, not being familiar with the local cuisine, I asked what the food was like.
“The meals aren’t very big,” the wife said.

In other parts of the world I’d heard criticisms such as “the steak was tough” or “the fish was oily”.
My friend Mick tells the old joke about the bloke at a Chinese restaurant who complains to the waiter that “this chicken is rubbery”.

“Ah, thank you very much,” the waiter replies. You’ve got to be shamefully politically incorrect to even get that joke. It’s disgusting and I don’t know why I laugh every time Mick says it when we’re eating Asian food.
But the scathing comment from the locals I asked about the food at a particular restaurant was not that the food was bad, just that the meals weren’t very big.

I’ve noticed that in some restaurants, those known for “fine dining”, the quantity of food seems to be less important than the quality.

However, I get it … you don’t want to pay for a meal and leave the restaurant feeling hungry. Mackay practicality.

It was an early signal to me that Mackay people tend to like big things.  When I first arrived, Holden still made cars and apparently Mackay had the highest per capita ownership of Club Sports. They liked big V8s.
These days they are more into big 4WDs and SUVs. Witness the number of RAMs and other monster trucks on the road.

The belief that big is better became an issue a few years later when certain residential developments with much smaller blocks were taken to the Mackay market.

Precincts such as the Woodlands Estate in Andergrove, Plantation Palms in Rural View and Blacks Beach Cove were all designed with smaller blocks than the usual Mackay offering.

While Mackay home-owners were accustomed to typical 700-800+sq m blocks, suddenly there were blocks of 300-500sq m. They were a bit like those meals at the Mackay restaurant I mentioned, not very big.

In those days many of those properties were snapped up by investors and rented out. Many of us, me included, said Mackay people were never going to buy those properties because they want big blocks, properties where you can fit a shed and get access for a boat or a caravan.

And it is true that many Mackay people did not want them. They wanted bigger blocks and the space they offer for vehicles and boys’ toys.

But over the past year properties have been selling in those estates in the high $500,000s, $600,000s and $700,000s. The blocks are small and they’re not for everyone but Mackay is showing that the market is more diverse than we thought.

Not everyone has a caravan, a big boat and a massive 4WD. Mackay has changed … there is now a terrific, divergent ethnic mix that makes the place more interesting and culturally complex. Many of those people have different requirements to the typical old Mackay buyers.

We have had an influx of young professional people from southern cities who have also helped break the mould.
And there are plenty of older people who want to downsize to something modern and low-maintenance and they are snapping up properties on smaller blocks.

So while many Mackay people will still focus on the size of the meal and the car and the block, we are changing. Many busy Mackay people want the convenience of a smaller block with a modern home that requires little maintenance.

In Mackay it’s no longer one size fits all.

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Mackay Unites To Honour 29 Lives Lost In 1960 Air Disaster

By Hannah McNamara

Sixty-five years have passed, but the grief still lingers.

On June 10, the Mackay community gathered to remember the 29 lives lost in Australia’s worst civil aviation disaster at the time – the crash of TAA Flight 538 in 1960. Among them was Mr Col Benson, local Historian, former Air Force radio technician and long-time Mackay RSL member, who helped organise the solemn anniversary.

“I was a schoolboy when it happened… the whole of the community was in shock,” he said.

Mr Benson had returned to Mackay after the long weekend to a city in mourning. One of the victims was a boy a year older than him.

“Even today, people in their 70s, 80s, 90s remember where they were that night,” he said.

“That plaque gave people somewhere to focus their grief.”

Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson echoed the community’s pain, remembering how residents could identify aircraft by sound.

“I remember my father saying, ‘Wow, that’s really low,’” he recalled.

“Surely it can’t be happening in our town… But it did.”

The tragedy prompted major safety reforms, including the invention of the black box flight recorder.

Lawrence Manning, son of Walkley-winning journalist Rod Manning, offered a poignant tribute.

“While it was 65 years ago, the loss… has resulted in intergenerational pain.

“It is the human element – the expressions of sympathy, the sharing of grief and concern for each other – that is enriched the entire community down the years.”

In Mackay, remembrance is not a date on a calendar, but rather a promise kept.

“There’s still grief, but at least we can all share it as a community,” said Mr Benson.

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Earlier this month, 94 proud individuals officially became Australian citizens at a special ceremony held at the MECC.

Mayor Greg Williamson and councillors welcomed the new citizens, who hailed from 25 countries including the Philippines, South Africa, Thailand, Italy, Namibia and Nepal. The ceremony was a celebration of the rich cultural diversity that continues to shape and strengthen the Mackay region.

Since citizenship ceremony records began in 2013, Mackay has welcomed new Australians from 106 different countries, a remarkable reflection of our community’s inclusive spirit and growing global connections.

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A new citizen celebrates her big moment with Mayor Greg Williamson during the recent citizenship ceremony at the MECC. Photo credit: Mackay Regional Council

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Some moments in life change you forever – walking through the doors of the Trudy Crowley Foundation’s Cancer Support Centre was one of those for me.

At the time, I was undergoing chemotherapy for bowel cancer – exhausted, vulnerable, and unsure what lay ahead. I had no idea that behind those doors I’d find not just support, but a sense of belonging, strength, and hope. Today, I’m deeply thankful to be in remission – and incredibly honoured to have recently been named one of the Patrons of the Trudy Crowley Foundation for 2025, alongside MP Amanda Camm.

Founded in honour of the extraordinary Trudy Crowley, the Foundation continues her mission: to empower people with knowledge, compassion and dignity as they navigate the hardest times of their lives.

That’s why this role is so meaningful to me.

The Trudy Crowley Foundation isn’t just a support service – it’s a lifeline. It’s a community. It’s a place where conversations happen, tears fall, laughter returns, and strength is shared in silence and in solidarity. And it’s where I first heard the message that changed everything:
Know your body. Know your normal. Be your biggest advocate.

This is the message the late Bridgeen Doherty – a fierce ambassador of the Foundation who sadly passed away in February – championed so passionately. It’s now a message I carry forward, in her honour and in Trudy’s.

With cancer diagnoses rising – particularly among younger people – we need to keep talking. We need to break through fear and stigma, and make space for knowledge, for early detection, for each other.

To stand alongside this remarkable organisation as a Patron is a privilege I don’t take lightly. If my story can help even one person stop, think, and speak up about their health – then I’ll have done something worthwhile.

To learn more about my story and the Trudy Crowley Foundation, pick up a copy of this month's Core Life Magazine.

Amanda

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Council’s Mackay Show display this year is helping local artisans to sell their hand-crafted creations to show-goers.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the display has evolved over the years and embraced new technology but for the second year in a row, we are proud to include local artisans.

“The council display will be bigger than ever with free face painting and a photo booth for kids, free water bottles and chilled water refills and heaps of interactive displays, but council is very proud to also support some local artisans,” Mayor Williamson said.

“There will be three local artisans at our pavilion, with a range of hand-crafted items for sale including paintings, earrings, suncatchers and more,” he said.

“The Sugar Shed display has also been a showstopper each year and once again they will have a massive display, right in the middle of our pavilion.”

Sarina Sugar Shed coordinator Claire Prest said the Sugar Shed display would be barrels of fun for the whole family.

“Each year our staff and volunteers are run off their feet at the Show display, offering a delicious range of free taste-testers for people to try and buy, including our sauces, chutneys and liqueurs,” Ms Prest said.

“We receive a lot of support from our Sugar Shed volunteers, as well as the Friends of the MECC to run our display, and we really appreciate their help,” she said.

Some other highlights at the Mackay Regional Council Show display include:

Interactive pickle ball activity to promote the soon to be opened Northern Beaches Community Hub.

Free chilled-water refill station.

A range of interactive booths, including Belgravia, Economic Development, Major Projects, Water Services, the MECC and Festival of Arts, Libraries, Sarina Sugar Shed, artisan stall holders from the community and more.

Australian Breastfeeding Association will have a fully stocked mums and bubs booth, with a private space available for parents to relax and take care of their young children.

A prize draw to win more than five hundred dollars in Sugar Shed hampers and vouchers.

To enter, visitors need to fill in an entry at the Sugar Shed booth and tell us in 30 words or less what they love about our region.

Council’s Mackay Show will be located on the ground floor of the 500 Pavilion and display hours are 2pm to 8pm Tuesday (June 17), 10.30am to 8pm Wednesday (June 18) and 9am to 4pm on the public holiday (Thursday, June 19).

For more details about the council Show display visit mackay.qld.gov.au/show.

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Ranger Ros’ Wild Puppet at council’s 2024 Show display

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Lifeblood Campaign Kicks Off With Emergency Crews Leading The Way

Australia’s frontline heroes are trading sirens for syringes as the Australian Red Cross Lifeblood launches its annual Emergency Services Blood Drive – a spirited three-month campaign that pits police, paramedics, firefighters, and other emergency crews against one another in a race to save lives through blood donation.

Running from June 1 to August 31, the friendly rivalry aims to boost vital blood, plasma, and platelet donations at a time of critical national need.

Among those involved in the challenge and donating to the cause is Senior Constable Karen Watson, who celebrated a significant milestone, having marked her 450th donation.

Senior Constable Watson has been donating regularly since she was 18 years old and encourages everyone to participate.

“I just feel very blessed to have enjoyed good health and being able to share it,” Senior Constable Watson said.

“Donating blood and plasma is now a regular activity for me and I plan to continue donating as long as I possibly can.

“Blood donations typically decline during the colder months as people become more susceptible to sickness and are unable to donate, so it’s an especially critical time for donations.

“As a police officer, I have seen first-hand the impact of blood donations and how far they go in saving lives.

“It’s an incredibly easy process and I encourage everyone to get involved.”

Emergency services personnel witness the impacts of blood donations on a regular basis, when responding to trauma and medical emergencies and by taking part in the drive – they are directly serving their communities in more ways than one.

As demand for blood and plasma continues to increase at record levels, Lifeblood spokesperson Liam Richardson said he hopes the Queensland community will follow the lead of their inspiring emergency services and book a donation.

“Every day, we issue close to 10,000 blood products and medications to hospitals around the country to meet patient demand, and we would love to see more people in Queensland support our emergency services and join our movement of donors,” Mr Richardson said.

To make a donation, call 13 14 95, book online at lifeblood.com.au or download the DonateBlood App.

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Australia’s frontline heroes are racing to save lives in the Emergency Services Blood Drive, with Senior Constable Karen Watson marking her 450th donation. Photos supplied

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In the heart of Proserpine, The Proserpine Community Centre are turning soil and sowing seeds not just in garden beds, but into community spirit as well.

Every Monday afternoon from 3pm to 5pm the Proserpine Community Garden welcomes locals of all ages to join in and get hands on in the garden.

The Proserpine Community Centre encourage everyone to get their hands dirty building garden beds, planting fruit and veges, mowing lawns, weeding, learning about growing, and enjoying some good company for a couple of hours.

What makes the garden special is its open arms and inclusive atmosphere. A mix of experienced gardeners and enthusiastic beginners work side-by-side, sharing knowledge, swapping stories, and lending a helping hand.

The Proserpine Community said they’d love to see even more young people turn up.

“We would really love to get our next generations involved and show them how to grow their own food,” they said.

“Some of us are experienced and some of us are newbies but we learn from each other and work together.”

Organisers hope more families will take the opportunity to get involved, learn valuable skills, and enjoy quality time outdoors.

“It’s a great way to get outside, do something worthwhile and meet new friends of all ages.”

In true community spirit, all the produce grown is given away for free. Whether you're looking to learn a little, share a little, or just enjoy some fresh air and friendly faces, the Proserpine Community Garden welcomes you.

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Join the Proserpine Community Garden every Monday from 3pm - 5pm. Photo sourced: Facebook

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The first humpback whales of the season were sighted on Friday, breaching between Penitecost Island and Suprise Rock, just south of Whitsunday and Hamilton Islands

It’s exciting and we are privileged to have them visit our waters to court, mate, give birth and rear their calves.  This is why the Whitsundays are a Whale Heritage Area.

The whales have to rely on their energy reserves until they return to their feeding ground in the Antarctic. Mothers will already loose a third of their body weight producing milk, feeding and protecting their calf.  If they loose too much weight by not resting enough, both the health of the mother and calf can be compromised.
It’s important to their continued survival that their ‘nurseries’ are free from any harassment.

Everyone using the waters of the Marine Park, have a responsibility to help protect whales and dolphins and to keep safe distances from them.

Interactions are on the whales terms and it’s possible to have amazing experiences still following the regulations.

Anywhere in the GREAT BARRIER REEF MARINE PARK
🐋Prohibited vessels (i.e. jetskis, parasails, hovercraft, hydrofoils, wing-in-ground effect craft and motorised diving aids such as underwater scooters) must not approach closer than ‘300 metres’ to a whale or dolphin.
🐋No vessels can approach within 300 metres of a calf.
🐋Whales and dolphins must not be approached within 30 degrees in front or behind.

When in the WHITSUNDAY WHALE PROTECTION AREA there are some additional rules in relation to whales.

The boundary of the WHALE PROTECTION AREA is the dashed line, which has been highlighted in yellow on the zoning map, or the darker blue area on the other map.

🐋A vessel must not approach closer than ‘300 metres’ to a whale.
🐋Negligible wake within ‘500 metres’ to a whale.
🐋A helicopter must not approach below 2000 feet or within 1000 metres of a whale.

If you are unsure of the Whale Protection Area boundary, please pick up a zoning map from a Marina office.

If you see anyone doing the wrong thing please take photos of the vessel and registration, and report all Marine Park regulation offences to 1800 380 048
or via the Reef Authority website by completing an incident report form:
https://www2.gbrmpa.gov.au/help/report-an-incident

To find out more about special whale events and information on whales in the Whitsundays, join the WHALES OF THE WHITSUNDAYS Facebook page; or go to https://www.whitsundaymarine.org/projects

Contributed by Kellie Leonard, Master Reef Guide/Whales of the Whitsundays

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Reef fish exhibit a wide array of mating strategies, from harems to life-long couples to gender switching to pregnant males. Let’s look some of the more unusual strategies.

The parrotfish is often seen in large schools of rather bland coloured fish accompanied by one or two brightly coloured fish. The brightly coloured fish are the males, but they were not always males.

Most parrotfish are born females but depending on environmental and social pressures may transition to male. This is known as protogyny. This transition is often accompanied by a dramatic change in coloration.

This is not random. Protogyny is common in the fish world and provides some significant advantages when it comes to survival. The more females, the more eggs. The eggs are broadcast over the bottom substrate and are then fertilized by the single male. Very efficient.

If the male dies, one of the many females will transition to male and life goes on.

The very popular clownfish is a different story. Clownfish start life as a male (the Movie Finding Nemo was not entirely accurate). For those that have seen clownfish on the Reef, living within their anemone, you probably noticed one large and very dominant clownfish and a few smaller clownfish.

The large clownfish is the female and the smaller clownfish are males. All clownfish are born male. However, at some point, a male clownfish will transition to female. This is known as protandry. The transition is accompanied by an increase in size and dominance.

The strategy here is, in small groups of fish, it is beneficial for the female to be the largest to lay more eggs, resulting in greater reproductive success. Regarding the smaller males, one of the males will be slightly larger than the others. This is the dominant male and will breed.

At some point, the female will die and the largest male will transition to female and take over the group.

Probably one of the most unique mating strategy is that of the seahorse (yes, a seahorse is a fish). The males get pregnant! A female seahorse deposits her eggs inside the male’s egg pouch. The male delivers live young, and they’re basically miniature versions of adults.

Most seahorse species are monogamous, often forming lasting bonds with their mates. Every day, male and female seahorses perform elaborate courtship displays that involve circling each other, changing colour, and even holding tails. That’s decidedly civilized for a fish.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Conservation Council.

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Parrot Fish
Seahorse
Clownfish

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Hi everyone!

The first whales of the season have been spotted, which means whale season is officially underway. If you capture any great photos, be sure to send them to ruth@lifepublishinggroup.com for a chance to have them featured in the paper.

This week, I’m hoping to watch Oceans, the new documentary by Sir David Attenborough. I’ve long admired his work and he’s been a major influence on my own career. I recently read in his book (which I highly recommend) that he actually started out as a producer at the BBC and was never intended to be a presenter at all! What I love most about his storytelling is the way he tackles complex and confronting topics with clarity and compassion, never making it feel like an attack but rather an invitation to care, which is what I always aimed to do with Ruth2Reef.

Anyway, happy reading (& watching if you are a David Attenborough fan!).

Ruth

Fast Fact: The ocean covers more than 70% of the Earth's surface.

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Hi Everyone,

On Sunday evening, I attended the Combined Church Service at Whitsunday Christian College, and it was incredible to witness a variety of faiths coming together to worship and enjoy fellowship.

So often, different religions can seem fractured or opposed, when in reality, we are all worshipping one God. Even those who do not follow the Christian Bible often live by similar values and morals. This shared experience of life could unite us, but sadly, that is not always the case.

Fortunately, here in the Whitsundays, we have many thriving church communities that provide strong support networks for numerous residents.

This was evident during the service on Sunday evening when nearly 200 people gathered to celebrate Pentecost.

For many years, I have lived by Christian values, though I only attend regular services when my mum visits for six months of the year. During that time, I love connecting with the friendly faces at the churches we attend each Sunday.

For me, attending a church service is about giving thanks for my life, expressing gratitude, and carving out a moment to be still. Each week, I learn something new, and often the sermon’s message resonates with a challenge I’m facing. This gives me the chance to reflect, understand, process, and forgive.

To those who think church is only for the deeply religious folk in our community — those who pray every day — don’t worry! You can still walk through the door without your head bursting into flames!

Everyone is welcome. You would be too! Why not find your local Church and give it a try one week?

Whether you are religious or not, practicing or not, spiritual connection is something we can all enjoy daily by pausing and taking time to look within.

— Rach

Quote of the Week: “Be still, and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10)

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