Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Local tourism operators are expressing concern toward troubling times ahead, with the federal government’s new visa restrictions set to shrink the backpacker workforce that drives seasonal operations. The Federal Government’s proposed cuts to Working Holiday Visas have raised concerns across two of the Whitsundays’ biggest industries. Bowen farmers warned that fewer backpackers could leave crops unpicked, and now tourism leaders in Airlie Beach have added that the same cuts could leave local businesses scrambling to find workers that aren’t there. At Airlie Beach’s Heart of the Great Barrier Reef sign, Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth and Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins spoke about what the proposed changes could mean for a region that relies heavily on tourism. “We can't have Airlie Beach named Australia's top tourism town in the small category and then have the knees cut out from us by federal policy,” Tim said. The proposed changes form part of the Federal Government’s effort to reduce migration, a topic that has been of hot debate by all three parties that Mayor Ry Collins believes the working holiday visas should be separated from. “Obviously the federal government is really coming in with broad brushstrokes to try and address the publicly perceived issue around net overseas migration (NOM),” said Mayor Collins. “Some of the dialogue I heard last week in Canberra was actually taking that working holiday maker class completely out of the NOM calculation. “I think that's a fair and reasonable way that they can make the numbers look as good as they want but it won't affect the actual number of workers that are here to support our industries.” The new restrictions look to cut the second-year extension on Working Holiday Visas from 57,000 to 45,000 slots, and 3rd year extension from 31,000 to just 5,000. According to Tourism Whitsundays, the Whitsundays hosts about 3,500 backpacker workers at any given time of the year. “I think for regions like the Whitsunday’s unemployment rate is lower than the national average by 0.9%, so at a 3.5% unemployment rate, we just don't have the workforce there that can pick up these roles that the working holidaymaker delivers for our communities,” Tim said. According to figures released by Tourism Whitsundays, in the year ending March 2026, domestic visitors spent $959.1 million in the region and international visitors spent a further $271.8 million. This spending was made possible by the abundance of workers delivering those experiences. “[Working holidaymakers] do a terrific job already in delivering world-class experiences, particularly here in the Whitsundays,” said Mayor Collins. “We do see working holidaymakers really take up that mantle, particularly in areas like customer service roles, hospitality roles, housekeeping roles... “What we're asking for is that we can stay strong as an entire tourism industry.” Having just returned from Canberra, the pair said raising regional and statewide voices is crucial to persuading the Federal Government to reconsider how the proposed restrictions would apply. “And then at a federal level, obviously through our federal member Andrew Wilcox, but we've also engaged with the members of the Labor Party around that as well. “But unfortunately it's starting to feel like a number of issues that we're campaigning on…along with things like disaster recovery funding arrangements which was one we linked into last week.” Photo caption: Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins and CEO of Tourism Whitsundays, Tim Booth. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville
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In this world of AI and other technological advancements, you don’t want to be the person who wanders around the office like a big old clumsy Tyrannosaurus Rex bumping into all the youngsters and stepping on their laptops and other devices. It’s one of the challenges of our times; getting the balance right in business in a world that is increasingly controlled by AI, robotics and a rapidly changing IT environment. I remember, some years ago now, when older family members had refused to embrace computer technology and mobile phones etc. They were really left behind and felt excluded in a world that had moved ahead without them. I’ve got a 19-year-old son who doesn’t have to think about it. Current and evolving technology is part of his life and, like others in his age group, he is completely at ease with something that is just part of his make-up and comprehension of the world around him. The trap you can fall into is letting the kids do all the IT stuff for you. My son set up our old TV with all the streaming services etc, which was the easy option for me, but I find it’s important to get involved and do it yourself otherwise everything will move ahead and you won’t be able to do things for yourself. But I am still stuck in some of the old ways. If I am ordering a takeaway meal I still ring the restaurant and go and pick it up. The old T-Rex wanders into the Thai or Indian joint and picks up his plastic bag of goodies, pays, and drives home. There aren’t many of us left. Uber Eats baby. Everyone has embraced it. My wife and daughter were having dinner together in Brisbane recently and my daughter noticed that her stockings or tights had “run” or a ladder in them. My wife suggested she jump in the car and drive to a nearby supermarket and get another pair. But my daughter ordered a new pair to be delivered to the restaurant by Uber. They were there in a jiffy and the night continued without the pesky interruption of having to leave the restaurant to buy them. It’s a great example of the modern world making things easier and how many of us need to ensure we are adjusting and understanding how things can now be done. There is another side to the coin, however. People have told me that I should get AI to write my columns. They say I could give it some examples of columns I have written and give it an idea for a new column and tell it to knock out 600 words on my chosen topic in my style of writing. It’s something I would never do. Apart from the fact that it would somehow seem like I was cheating, it would also not be authentic. I feel that however boring or pedestrian my stories and comments are, at least they are mine. They have come from my noggin, my experiences. It is my take on the world, not something that has been cobbled together by artificial intelligence. It’s similar in the world of real estate and, I’m sure, business generally. You need to embrace the technology, use it when it creates a better service, a superior experience for buyers and a better result for sellers. But there is still a place for picking up the phone and calling buyers, following up from open homes, doing the hard work that needs to be done as an agent. In a world of AI, robotics and Uber Everything the human element, the person-to-person connection still needs to happen to deliver good service and create the best result for clients.
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Maisy is a beautiful little soul who seems to understand that the very best place in the world is right beside someone she loves. She is affectionate, gentle, social and wonderfully trusting. She loves curling up on a welcoming lap, snuggling into your arms and settling close enough to make you feel as though you have always belonged together. Maisy is generous with her purrs, her cuddles and her sweet little air biscuits. She even places her paw in your hand as if to say, “I choose you.” But this gorgeous girl is not only a champion snuggler. Maisy is playful, curious and full of kitten joy. She loves exploring her toys, chasing anything that moves and turning ordinary moments into entertainment. She will happily amuse herself, but everything is even more fun when her favourite person joins in. She has that perfect combination of affection and personality, soft and loving when it is time to cuddle, and playful and bright when it is time for fun. Maisy will bring warmth to your home, companionship to your days and a little paw to hold whenever you need it. If you are looking for a kitten who will play with you, curl up with you and love being part of your life, Maisy may be the girl you have been waiting for. Maisy has been desexed, microchipped, received her first vaccination, been wormed and is litter trained. She is ready to begin her beautiful new life as a much-loved indoor companion. To arrange a meet and greet with Maisy, please call Ros on 0403 814 318.
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Tarren McAuley, Web Director and Co-Owner I remember when those AI posters started popping up – the first one looked kinda different. By the end of the week, when I’d seen 30 of them, I was much less enamoured + actively scrolled past anything that had that telltale paint smear style font. It’s not that the quality had gotten any worse between me seeing that first one + when I was sick of them by the 30th. But it was no longer novel or original. I think AI is especially susceptible to this because as soon as someone discovers a winning formula, everyone else jumps on the bandwagon, but because everyone is getting similar outputs, it gets old – quick. I think brands can fall into a similar trap. Humans are always looking for inspiration + when seeking it out, where better to look than the other players in your field. If you’re a tech company, you’re going to look at Samsung, Apple + the like. But when that happens too much, you get a feedback loop of samey-ness. For me, this is best exemplified by airline logos. Look at Qantas + Virgin, probably the two biggest brands in Australia. Both use a red plane-like icon, w/ their logo in big letters next to it. Bit cherry picked but even the other big players’ logos are similar - Emirates uses mainly red + shakes it up by having a slightly more exotic font. Jetstar ditches the red for orange + has their icon at the end but it has similar visual markers. This isn’t unique to logos, like w/ the poster example earlier – it could be your social tiles, your website or even your company email sig. Whatever it is, if you wake up one day + notice that the other businesses around you are looking a bit too similar, that should be your sign to start looking at a rebrand to shake off the rust + re-establish your unique identity. You know, until the cycle repeats again!
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Mackay residents are being encouraged to lace up and take part in Lifeline’s Out of the Shadows Walk this September, helping remember Australians lost to suicide while raising funds for vital crisis support.
Held in recognition of World Suicide Prevention Day on Thursday 10th September, participants are challenged to walk nine kilometres; representing the nine Australians who die by suicide each day.
Participating in the challenge could not be easier as the walk can be completed anywhere, anytime - either on 10th September or on a date that suits you. It’s an accessible way for individuals, families, workplaces and community groups to get involved.
All funds raised through the challenge will help Lifeline continue providing 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention services across the country, supporting the 3,600 people who contact Lifeline’s crisis support line each day.
Participants can walk in memory of a loved one, as a personal tribute, or simply to show support for anyone experiencing emotional distress. Community members can register online via www.outoftheshadowswalk.org.au and are able to fundraise individually or form a team and walk together.
What: World Suicide Prevention Day
When: Thursday 10th September
President of International Men’s Day Mackay Inc and Mackay Men’s Shed founder Frank Cowell is encouraging locals to nominate and celebrate a top bloke who goes above and beyond for his family, friends and community. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
By Hannah McNamara
As families across Mackay come together to celebrate Father’s Day this weekend, there is one man who has made it his mission to ensure the top blokes across the region are acknowledged, celebrated and appreciated.
President of International Men’s Day Mackay Inc, Advocate, and Founder of Mackay Men’s Shed Frank Cowell is encouraging the community to recognise the everyday men who make a difference to their families and the wider community through the annual Mackay Man of the Year award.
Mr Cowell said one of the challenges men often face is recognising how important they are to their families and society. He said men can also carry a sense of guilt when they make mistakes but highlighted the importance of focusing on the good – rather than the bad – as well as forgiveness and encouragement.
“A bloke often lives in a world of guilt from even the smallest mistakes. They need forgiveness for one, and they also need to be encouraged by those around them to be the best man God wants them to be,” Mr Cowell said.
Initiated six years ago, the Mackay Man of the Year award was created to recognise an “average man” who goes the extra mile for his family, contributes to the community and is someone others can rely on.
“It is to recognise one average man in this area, who just goes an extra mile for his family, but also contributes to community in some way, and is overall a decent bloke.”
Mr Cowell said the award is about celebrating men who are dependable, while recognising that nobody has to be perfect.
“We like to recognise the sort of bloke that you can count on, who, when he gives his word, he keeps it. But also makes mistakes, as we all do.”
Nominations are now open until 30th September, with finalists to be notified by 31st October and invited to the International Men’s Day 2026 Celebratory Breakfast later this year on Thursday 19th November, where the winner will be announced.
Mr Cowell encourages the people of Mackay to provide examples of why their nominee deserves recognition.
“You can't just say he's a good bloke. You ought to say why he’s a good bloke!”
Mr Cowell said being nominated is a form of encouragement in itself, even for those who don’t become finalists.
“Just the fact that someone is nominated is encouragement as well. They might not make the cut to become the Man of the Year, but the fact that they're in the running, and were nominated for it, speaks volumes to some men who aren’t oftenappreciated.”
The winner will have their name engraved on the Mackay Man of the Year Perpetual Trophy and receive a personal trophy, along with a prize package including a travel package to Bowen courtesy of Gallivantor Travel and 360 on the Hill Restaurant, a 12-month Muscle Garden Gym membership, $400 cash and dinner for two at Roshni By Raj.
Two runners-up will also receive prizes.
This Father’s Day, while we celebrate the dads, stepdads, grandfathers and father figures who have shaped our lives, perhaps it is also worth thinking about the other men who have always shown up, quietly helped others, kept their word or simply been the bloke we could count on.
Mr Cowell emphasised that for some men, a little recognition can mean more than we realise.
Nominations can be made by COB 30th September 2026 at www.manoftheyearmackay.com.au or by filling out a form in person. For more information contact President IMDMI, Frank Cowell on 0434 908 968
Ground has officially been broken on two major developments set to serve Whitsunday residents for generations to come.
In Bowen, Murroona Gardens has begun its $14 million expansion, delivering two purpose-built, 12-bedroom dementia care homes and a new central laundry, which will allow more residents to receive specialised support close to their families and community.
Meanwhile, construction has officially begun on the $30 million Cannonvale Community Hub at Galbraith Park, bringing together a modern library, council customer service centre, meeting rooms and flexible community spaces all in one.
Together, the projects represent a $44 million investment in care, connection and the region’s future.
Supplied by Libby Edge.
The community gathered at Cannonvale Beach on Sunday morning to watch Marissa and Bentley, two rehabilitated juvenile green sea turtles, return to the ocean.
The pair were found malnourished and covered in algae and barnacles before being taken to the Whitsunday Turtle Rescue Centre in July. After weeks of care and rehabilitation, they were declared healthy and ready to return to Whitsunday waters.
Carried down to the shoreline by their carers, Marissa and Bentley were met with cheers from the crowd as they made their way across the sand and disappeared beneath the waves.
“To see more than 250 people come together to celebrate Marissa and Bentley’s return to the ocean was absolutely heartwarming,” said Founder of Eco Barge Clean Seas Libby Edge.
“We were overwhelmed and incredibly grateful for the turnout, which was much larger than anticipated.
“I also want to say a huge and heartfelt thank you to our incredible turtle carers. They have each volunteered so many hours this year to provide our turtles with the daily food, treatment, cleaning and specialised care they need.
“Our carers work tirelessly behind the scenes, and Marissa and Bentley’s return to the wild would not have been possible without their dedication and compassion.”
Eco Barge Clean Seas currently has another five sea turtles receiving treatment and rehabilitation at the Whitsunday Turtle Rescue Centre.
Cait Fleming, Trish Jandt and Julia Evans. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville.
The 2026 Whitsunday Business Conference brought together 120 attendees from 77 businesses for a day of practical learning, networking and collaboration.
Hosted by the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry across PCYC Whitsunday and Club Whitsunday, with the event featuring a business expo, long lunch and an update from Mayor Ry Collins, who announced the 46 finalists for the 2026 Whitsunday Business Awards and the inaugural Chamber Games.
Media and communications expert Ian Cohen proved a highlight of the day, while five young local employees, trainees and apprentices shared what the next generation values in a workplace during the inaugural Rising Stars Panel. Attendees walked away with fresh ideas for their businesses and valuable new connections across the region.
The conference returns on Thursday, 26 August 2027. Chamber now looks forward to it’s new Look & Learn series, which will begin with a free social media session at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on Wednesday, 9 September.
This 15 month old Kelpie Cross, Freddie, is looking for his next chapter and whoever says yes to him is going to be very lucky.
Freddie has known nothing but love his whole life. He is well trained, beautifully socialised and comes with the kind of manners that make people stop and ask how you did it. His foster mum has had to return overseas and now Freddie needs someone to carry on the love she gave him.
He is a goofball of the highest order. Food obsessed, people obsessed, he makes the funniest noises during play and will say hello to every single person at the beach before he even glances at another dog.
He walks beautifully on lead, learns new tricks in minutes if there is a treat involved and will snooze on the couch next to you once his energy is spent.
Freddie does best in an active home with a secure yard, older kids and ideally another dog to be his mate.
To adopt Freddie contact Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue on Facebook.
About Freddie
Breed: Kelpie x (possible Lab mix)
Age: 15 months | Weight: 24kg
Desexed, vaccinated, microchipped, flea, tick and worming up to date
Heartworm negative | No known triggers | Available now
There’s a particular time of day in the Whitsundays when everything seems to slow down.
The heat softens, the light begins to change and Coral Sea Marina takes on that unmistakable late-afternoon glow. At The Garden Bar, it’s one of the loveliest times to find a table and simply settle in.
From 3pm, the Baked Brie offers an early taste of what’s to come. Served warm and gooey, drizzled with local honey and accompanied by roasted walnuts, sweet dates, crisp apples and crackers, it’s made for sharing while the afternoon unfolds.
Then, from 5pm, the kitchen opens for dinner service, inviting you to stay a little longer. The menu reflects the relaxed Whitsundays lifestyle, moving from light bites and share plates through to fresh seafood, house-made pasta and a variety of globally inspired substantial mains.
And then there’s the view.
Boats make their way across the marina, the Whitsunday Islands sit beyond the water, and the sky puts on a show of its own. As daylight fades, the garden lights begin to twinkle and the yachts reflect across the water.
It’s a subtle change, but one that sets the evening atmosphere.
Perhaps you arrived for a share plate in the afternoon and found yourself staying for dinner. Perhaps you’ve come straight from a day exploring the Whitsundays, ready to slow the pace and watch the evening settle over the marina. Or perhaps you’re a local who knows that sometimes the best way to appreciate where we live is simply to stop long enough to enjoy it.
That’s part of the charm of The Garden Bar. There’s no need to rush the experience.
For visitors, it’s a chance to experience a relaxed side of Airlie Beach without an itinerary. For locals, it’s a reminder of just how special our own backyard can be.
Good food, warm hospitality, tropical surroundings and an evening unfolding by the water.
Sometimes, that’s all the plan you need.
The Garden Bar is located at Coral Sea Marina - South Village, Airlie Beach. Open Wednesday to Friday from 3pm and Saturday and Sunday from 12pm.
The Signature Seafood Platter.
With uninterrupted water views, fresh Australian seafood and cocktails made with that local touch, Coral Sea Pavilion is hoping more Whitsunday residents will come down and see what is on their doorstep.
Although the restaurant’s location may leave some locals thinking it is mainly there for holidaymakers, the team wants to change that perception and encourage more residents through the doors.
“We want to bring more awareness to the restaurant and show locals what we offer,” said Marketing Specialist for Coral Sea Resort Maria Markham.
The menu features plenty of fresh Australian seafood, much of it locally sourced, with Coral Sea Pavilion’s generous hot and cold seafood platter among its signature must-haves.
Behind the bar, guests will find beers on tap, a selection of wines and a mix of classic and handcrafted cocktails. Its signature range includes the Nemo, Mango Tango and Gin & Bare it, made using 74 Islands gin and vodka.
Despite first impressions with a gorgeous waterfront setting, the Pavilion remains in line with other restaurants around Airlie Beach.
“We want locals to know they don’t need to wait for a special occasion,” Maria said.
“Lunch, sunset drinks or an easy dinner, the Pavilion is somewhere they can enjoy any day of the week.”
Locals can scan the QR code below to join the Pavilion’s rewards program and receive 10 per cent off every visit, along with additional rewards each time they return.
Long before the medals, the podiums and the recognition, an Olympic dream is built through thousands of hours of training when very few people are watching.
For 15-year-old Whitsunday swimmer Tora Delac, that means early mornings, countless laps and years of commitment in the pool.
Tora is the third young athlete featured in Whitsunday Regional Council’s Home Grown: Future Olympians series, showcasing talented young Whitsunday athletes chasing big sporting dreams from right here in our region.
Tora began swimming with the Cannonvale Cannons and was competing at regional meets by the age of nine.
At just 10, she competed at her first Queensland State Championships and has continued to progress through the swimming ranks ever since.
Along the way, Tora has celebrated plenty of milestones – from breaking the 30-second barrier in both the 50-metre freestyle and butterfly to achieving multiple top-10 placings at Queensland State Championships.
In 2024, she qualified for her first Australian Age Championships and has now competed at the national event three times.
Her latest achievement will see her head to Sydney in October after qualifying for the Australian Open Short Course Championships, another major step in a sporting journey that started in a local Whitsunday pool.
Tora has also been awarded a Hancock Prospecting Patron Scholarship – Olympic Pathways, while continuing to be a leader and positive role model for younger swimmers at her club.
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said Tora’s story showed what could be achieved through commitment, discipline and the support of local sporting communities.
“Tora is only 15, but she has already spent years getting up early, diving into the pool and doing the hard work that happens well before anyone starts talking about medals,” Mayor Collins said.
“That commitment has taken her from swimming locally with the Cannonvale Cannons to competing at State and National Championships, and now qualifying for an Australian Open event.
“She should be incredibly proud of what she has achieved, but what I also love about Tora’s story is that she hasn’t forgotten where it started and is already helping and encouraging younger swimmers coming through behind her.”
Mayor Collins said the Home Grown: Future Olympians series was about celebrating talented young athletes while highlighting the importance of creating sporting opportunities and pathways closer to home.
“We know regional kids have the talent, determination and work ethic to compete with the best anywhere in Australia.
“Our job is to keep advocating for the facilities, investment and opportunities that give them every chance to do that without believing they have to leave the Whitsundays to chase a big dream.
“That is a big part of the legacy we want from the Whitsundays becoming the home of Olympic and Paralympic Sailing in 2032.
“It’s not simply about what happens during the Games. It’s about using that opportunity to inspire young people, strengthen local sport and leave better facilities and pathways for the generations coming behind them.”
Tora’s story is the third profile in Council’s Home Grown: Future Olympians campaign, following young Whitsunday sailors Reid and Rory Martin and footballer Lilliana Knight.
The series celebrates the athletes as well as the families, coaches, volunteers and local sporting clubs helping young Whitsunday talent pursue their dreams.
Because Olympic and Paralympic dreams don't start on the podium.
They start right here in the Whitsundays.
Mayor Collins addressing the council before turning the sod. Photo Credit: Zach Houtenville
The turning of the first sod on 1st September marked the beginning of construction on the new $30 million Cannonvale Community Hub, which will provide a place for locals to read, learn, meet and connect as the community continues to grow.
Set within Galbraith Park, the hub will bring several services under one roof, including a modern library, council customer service centre, meeting rooms and flexible spaces for community activities.
The facility’s outdoor areas will connect with new access points and pathways delivered through Stage 1 of the Galbraith Park Master Plan, creating a more welcoming and versatile place for the wider community to gather while laying the groundwork for future improvements.
“The project is about planning early and investing in infrastructure that will serve the community for generations,” said Mayor of Whitsunday Region Ry Collins.
“Cannonvale is growing rapidly, and we need to make sure the infrastructure supporting our community grows with it.
“This Hub is a practical investment in Cannonvale’s future, bringing important Council services together while creating more places for people to learn, meet and connect.
“It will complement the valued work of the existing neighbourhood centre and local community organisations, creating new opportunities for programs, partnerships and community use rather than replacing what is already working.”
The project is being jointly funded by the Australian Government and Whitsunday Regional Council, with each contributing $15 million.
“The Albanese Government is investing in infrastructure to enable growing regional communities to plan confidently for the future,” said Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, Kristy McBain.
“The Cannonvale Community Hub will create new opportunities for local families, students and community groups, while building on the programs and connections already established across Cannonvale.”
More than simply a new building, the hub is intended to become a welcoming and accessible space for Cannonvale residents of all ages, providing room for local programs, community groups and everyday connections as the area grows.
“Essential community infrastructure makes a real difference to how people connect, access programs and take part in community life,” said Assistant Minister for Northern Australia and Senator for Queensland, Nita Green.
“Cannonvale Community Hub is the kind of legacy infrastructure that will continue serving the community as the region grows.”
Construction is expected to be completed by late 2027, weather permitting.
“Fingers crossed it will be ready by Christmas next year,” Mayor Collins said.
“I think it would be a nice time of year to open something like this, giving the community a place to gather and escape the hot and wet weather.”
Proserpine Mill processed about 88,900 tonnes of cane for the week, which is the highest weekly throughput this year. Our season to date total is now more than 801,100 tonnes.
Average weekly CCS came in above budget, at 14.37 units. The highest weekly CCS sample for the week was 17.95 units, from a rake of Q183 ratoon cane in the Kelsey Creek productivity district.
We want to remind the public to always give way to cane trains and only cross the line at designated road crossings.
Remember that a fully loaded cane train can take up to one kilometre to pull up. Our cane trains work around the clock, seven days a week, so please continue to use your train brain and always take care around the cane rail network.
Whitsunday SES member Gregory Yuskan has earnt recognition for his dedication to the community. Photo supplied: My Police QLD
Whitsunday State Emergency Service (SES) member Gregory Yuskan has been awarded a major honour, winning the Suncorp Spirit of SES award.
A local controller with the Central region, Gregory received the prestigious acknowledgement at the SES State Awards on Saturday afternoon in Brisbane, which marked the end of SES week across Queensland.
He was recognised for his ability to lead by example with calmness, professionalism and integrity during severe weather and emergency operations across the region.
Gregory is currently leading the coordination of a major multi-unit field exercise, with members from Whitsunday, Mackay and Isaac units, which is designed to enhance the skills, knowledge and relationships for volunteers.
During the past year, he was heavily involved with championing the use of Geographic Information Systems within SES operations.
Area Controller Michael Young said Gregory is extremely deserving of the honour.
“We are so proud of Greg and his amazing contribution to the region,” Michael said.
“Greg consistently demonstrates his exceptional leadership, innovation, integrity and commitment to the Whitsunday community.”
Gregory said he is humbled to have been recognised.
“Being a part of the SES is about giving back to the community, we don’t do it for the recognition,” he said.
“It’s still a great honour to be acknowledged and to represent the Whitsundays and the Central region.”
Suncorp Chief Executive Customer, Brand and Digital Bridget Messer said the Suncorp Spirit of SES Award was going to a worthy recipient.
“SES volunteers are the backbone of many communities, and Greg’s leadership, commitment and service exemplify the spirit of the organisation. He is a very deserving recipient of this award,” Bridget said.
Team members Juliann Firmin, Cindy Tonks and Leanne Abernethy wearing the Don River Dash Shirts this week at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre.
This winter has marked a record tourist season in Bowen, with more visitors welcomed at the Information Centre over the past three months than the same period in any year prior.
Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business Leanne Abernethy said this was a very pleasing result, given that there had been concerns about fuel prices, interest rates and other cost-of-living pressures.
“We had a record month in July 2025 and didn’t expect to be able to repeat those numbers again this year,” she said.
“Some visitors are spending slightly less but they are certainly still coming.
“In June, July and August this year, we welcomed a total of 22,750 people to the Bowen Visitor Information Centre – that is an average of 247 people per day!
“With the Don River Dash this weekend, we are expecting that momentum to continue as this unique off-road event for bikes and buggies is growing in popularity every year and brings hundreds of visitors to town from all over Australia.
“The school holidays later in September will also be a busy time for us.
“We are expecting very strong visitor numbers this month. Although we did have a record day in September last year with the release of the Big Mango $1 coin, so that will be hard to beat.”
The team also recently hosted the Channel 7 Weekender crew, with the segment airing last weekend and providing valuable statewide exposure for Bowen as a visitor destination.
OPENING HOURS
Bowen Visitor Information Centre next to the Big Mango in Bowen is open 7 days a week.
Monday to Friday – 9am – 5pm
Saturday and Sunday – 10am – 3pm
Alicia Mansbridge. Photo source: Mackay Hospital and Health Services.
A Proserpine nurse has received the Sustainable Organisation Award at the 2026 Let’s Celebrate Staff Awards for her innovative approach to improving care for older patients.
During her time at Proserpine Hospital, clinical nurse and rural generalist Alicia Mansbridge has helped bridge the gap between hospital and community care for frail older patients, developing a practical model that has drawn interest for adoption from other rural health services.
This crowning achievement is known as BRIDGE, a nurse-led program standing for Building Recovery, Independence and Discharge Guidance for the Elderly.
BRIDGE supports patients after they’ve left hospital, connecting them with specialist and community care while helping to prevent avoidable re-admissions. Through an organised triage and referral process, eligible patients can access geriatric expertisewithout making another trip to hospital.
Another key element of BRIDGE is telehealth, with Alicia introducing rapid geriatric assessments and consultations with Geriatric Care Australia nurse practitioners that patients can access from home. Their GP then receives written recommendations to help guide the next stage of care, ensuring fluidity between all services.
“For frail older patients, this can mean less travel, fewer mobility challenges and shorter waits for specialist support,’ shared Mackay Hospital and Health Services.
“It also reduces pressure on health services by limiting the need for vehicles, office space and hospital facilities.”
Behind BRIDGE is a team working to ensure older patients remain supported after leaving hospital, with clinical nurses overseeing referrals, health professionals who meet weekly discuss ways to improve the care they deliver through this program.
“Early results are demonstrating benefits for patients, families and the health system, including more timely access to specialist geriatric assessment, improved care coordination and greater involvement of families in care planning,” said Mackay Hospital and Health Services.
“Patients can receive support in their own homes, helping them feel more informed, connected and confident as they recover and maintain their independence.”
For rural communities, where distance can make accessing care difficult, BRIDGE offers older patients a more comfortable way to receive timely specialist advice from home.
Whitsunday Lions Club. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville
As Nepal reels from catastrophic flash flooding that has killed more than 1,000 people and left thousands missing, the Whitsunday Lions Club is rallying the local community to support those affected at their weekly markets this Saturday.
On Wednesday 26th August after a glacier collapsed and triggered a landslide, a flash flood rushed through the valley below and into the Rasuwa district villages along the Trishuli River in central Nepal.
Travelling at an estimated 50 metres per second, the wall of water, ice, mud and debris gave communities little time to react, sweeping away homes, roads and bridges, with the destruction stretching more than 100 kilometres downstream.
As of Wednesday 2nd September, at least 1,050 people had been confirmed deceased and about 4,000 remained missing. Among those unaccounted for were 583 tourists, including 38 Australians, according to an ABC News report. More than 11,000 people had been rescued, while emergency crews continued searching remote communities and debris-filled tunnels.
The scale of the disaster has left tens of thousands of people in urgent need of support, with United Nations spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric telling ABC News that about 65,000 people require emergency water, sanitation and hygiene assistance.
"More than 22,000 children need protection. 2,600 children under five are expected to need treatment for severe wasting," Stéphane Dujarric said.
"And around 10,500 pregnant and breastfeeding women need nutrition assistance."
In an effort to help out from home, the Whitsunday Lions Club are holding a raffle and collecting donations at their Saturday market with 100% of the funding going straight to Lions of Nepal.
“I’m not just proud of our club, I’m proud of Lions International and that we’re able to help Lions all over the world when there’s a crisis,” said President of the Whitsunday Lions Club Greg Smith.
“Our Lions Club is a small cog in a very, very big wheel. We’re sending money to the Lions Clubs International Foundation, where it will be pooled with donations from around the world.
“The funding is helping those searching for survivors and carrying out rescues, as well as displaced people who need shelter and food.
“I spoke to a personal friend who is a district governor, and he was overwhelmed to think that people in Australia would be helping his country in its time of need, he was very emotional.”
Club members will be at the markets from about 8.30am until noon, with a donation tin available for anyone wishing to contribute. The club will also donate its weekly market takings to the Nepal flood appeal, apart from the Whitsunday Regional Council land-use fee.
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