Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
With nearly two decades at Blacks Real Estate, Peter Francis has built a reputation across Mackay for honest service, strong negotiation skills and consistent results. Joining the agency in 2008, Peter now serves as Director and Sales Consultant, helping vendors and buyers navigate the property market with a focus on professionalism and clear communication. Originally trained as a surveyor at the University of South Australia, Peter later transitioned into real estate, where he went on to achieve national and international recognition, including National Top 20 rankings on seven occasions and a Hall of Fame award during a previous role. Since moving to Mackay in 2004 with his wife Kylie and their family, Peter has become deeply involved in the local community, balancing a busy career with raising five children and contributing to school communities and the Mackay Chamber of Commerce. Known for his calm approach and ability to mediate between buyers and sellers, Peter said building trust with clients has always been central to his work. His long list of repeat clients and referrals reflects the strong relationships he has developed across the region over the years. Blacks Real Estate continues to operate from Wood Street in Mackay and Dysart Garden Plaza, servicing residential, commercial and rural clients across the region. CAPTION: Peter Francis, Director and Sales Consultant at Blacks Real Estate. Photo supplied
Read the full story
We need to talk about something that happens far too often – black kittens are usually the last to be chosen. Yet they are often the very best companions. These kittens are not just “another kitten”. They are the ones who follow you from room to room like your shadow. Who climb into your lap and stay there. Who greet you at the door like a dog and want to be involved in everything you do. They don’t just live in your home – they become part of your everyday life. Our black kittens are incredibly affectionate – true lap cats who crave human connection. They are confident and curious, often the first to explore and investigate. Playful and cheeky, they are full of personality and mischief. They are also highly social. They will chat to you, respond to you and connect with you. Once they choose you, they are yours completely. And in real life, they are absolutely stunning – with glossy coats, striking eyes, and an elegant, sleek presence that photos simply don’t capture. If you have ever wanted a cat that truly bonds with you, that seeks you out and becomes your constant little companion, come and meet our black kittens. Because once you meet them, you will understand. To register your expression of interest, please contact foster carer Janet on 0423 768 805. Contributed by Mackay Pet Rescue Inc
Read the full story
There’s a type of exhaustion many women carry that doesn’t disappear with a good night’s sleep. It’s not just physical tiredness. It’s the constant mental juggling. Remembering school events, organising appointments, replying to messages, planning meals, checking homework, thinking ahead, caring for ageing parents, supporting friends, managing work deadlines, and somehow trying to look after yourself somewhere in between. Even during moments of “rest,” many women describe feeling like their brain never truly switches off. This invisible load is something women carry every day, and over time, the body often carries it too. As a women’s and pelvic health physiotherapist, I often see women who come in with symptoms like pelvic pain, bladder urgency, tension, leaking, headaches, jaw clenching, shallow breathing, or a feeling that their body is constantly tight or “on edge.” Many are surprised to learn that stress and nervous system overload can play a significant role in how the body feels and functions. When we’re stressed for long periods, the body naturally shifts into a protective state. Muscles tighten, breathing becomes shallow, sleep can be disrupted, and the nervous system stays on high alert. It’s a helpful response in short bursts, but when the body stays in that heightened state for weeks, months, or years, symptoms can begin to appear. And the pelvic floor is particularly influenced by this. Many people think the pelvic floor only matters during pregnancy or after birth, but these muscles respond closely to stress, posture, breathing, and tension patterns throughout the entire body. Some women unknowingly hold tension through their pelvic floor all day long, almost like clenching their jaw without realising. Over time, this can contribute to discomfort, urgency, constipation, pain, or difficulty fully relaxing the muscles. What’s important to understand is that this does not mean the body is “broken.” Often, it’s a body that has been coping, adapting, and carrying a great deal for a long time. And while exercise and movement are incredibly important, healing isn’t always about pushing harder. Sometimes it’s about creating moments where the body feels safe enough to soften and let go. That might look like slowing your breathing for a few minutes while sitting in the car before school pick-up. Going for a walk without turning it into another task to complete. Stretching before bed. Asking for help. Resting without guilt. Learning how to relax your pelvic floor, not just strengthen it. Small moments matter. Women are often exceptionally good at caring for everyone else while quietly ignoring their own symptoms. But tension, fatigue, and overwhelm are not simply things to “push through” forever. The body has a way of asking for attention eventually. If your body feels tight, tired, or not quite like itself, it may be worth listening with curiosity rather than criticism. Support can make a meaningful difference, whether that’s through movement, stress management, pelvic health physiotherapy, or simply giving yourself permission to slow down occasionally. Because women were never meant to carry everything alone, and the body shouldn’t have to either.
Read the full story
Word of mouth is some of the most powerful marketing your business can get. It’s trusted, it’s personal + in regional areas especially, it carries a LOT of weight. Most businesses will proudly say, “Most of our work comes from word of mouth”. Which is awesome – but then they treat it like something that just magically happens. The truth is – the businesses getting the most word of mouth are usually doing a few things really well. People need a reason to talk about your business in the first place. And no, “good service” on its own usually isn’t enough anymore – that’s the baseline expectation from people! The businesses people tend to recommend are the ones that are memorable in some way. Maybe they communicate really well, make life easier, solve a specific problem, have a strong personality, do something unexpectedly fast or simply make people feel looked after. Another big one? Visibility. People are far more likely to recommend businesses they remember (I know – what a shocker lol). If someone hasn’t seen or heard from you in two years, you’re probably not top of mind when a friend asks for a recommendation. This is where consistent marketing does a lot of heavy lifting. Social media, email marketing, networking, community involvement, even signage – all of it helps reinforce who you are, what you do + why someone should choose you. Clarity matters too. If people can’t easily explain what your business does, who you help or what makes you different, referrals get weaker. The easier you are to describe, the easier you are to recommend!! One of the simplest things businesses can do is also be more specific when talking about the work they want. Instead of “let us know if you hear of anyone”, try “we’re looking for more commercial fitout work” or “we’d love more bookkeeping clients in construction”. Specific prompts help people connect the dots faster. People can’t recommend a business they forgot existed. Word of mouth doesn’t just come from doing good work – it comes from being remembered when someone needs what you do. Photo credit: Coffee + Hops
Read the full story
Karen Hill Floral Design: More than just a business. Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi
For the past eleven years, Karen Hill Floral Design has been more than just a floral business — it has been built on passion, resilience, creativity, and community.
What began as a love for flowers has grown into a trusted name, woven into the lives of so many people through life’s most meaningful moments. From celebrations and weddings to sympathy flowers and everyday gestures of love, every arrangement has been created with heart and purpose.
“Flowers have always been more than something beautiful. They tell stories, bring comfort, celebrate milestones and say what words sometimes cannot.” Owner, Karen Hill, shared.
“For eleven years, it has been an honour to be part of those moments within our community.”
“Now, after more than a decade in business, I am incredibly proud to be opening a new store in Proserpine, Queensland.
“This is more than opening a shopfront — it is the beginning of an exciting new chapter. The new Proserpine store is a space created for the community — a welcoming place where locals can connect, share their stories, and find flowers designed with care and authenticity.
“This store represents growth, dedication, and the support of the people who have stood beside Karen Hill Floral Design over the years.”
“No business reaches 11 years without the support of its people.
“To every customer, friend, family member, and local supporter who has trusted and encouraged this journey — thank you. Your support has helped shape Karen Hill Floral Design into what it is today.
“This new store is not just mine. It belongs to the community that helped build it.
“Here’s to the next chapter in Proserpine, and many more years of creating beauty, connection, and unforgettable moments.”
Come support us this Mother’s Day at our new store!
%20mens%20shed.JPG)
Men’s Shed members with the Hamilton Cup, restored by Peter Halsey, middle-right.
Tucked away in the leafy streets of Cannonvale is the Airlie Beach Men’s Shed, a small building filled with timber and tools, whose door is open to anyone looking for a place to be. Born to combat the loneliness epidemic, it’s a space for men to come together and work on carpentry projects; a place to make a new mate or connect with an old one.
%20don%20campbell.JPG)
Recently, The Men’s Shed received a very special project: to restore the old Hamilton Cup. In August 2025, Outrigger Whitsunday member Michelle Lynes found a collection of outrigger trophies that had been sent from Hamilton Island to the Shute Harbour logistics terminal.
Among them was the Hamilton Outrigger Cup; a spectacular wooden trophy awarded to winners of the iconic race conducted on Hamilton Island since 1984. The artefact was carved by Arno Schilling before the first race - a skilled carpenter who previously worked for Keith Williams on the development of Sea World, Hamilton Island, Daydream Island, Port Hinchinbrook and the Whitsundays Islands.
“It’s the largest trophy I’ve ever seen, and it carries so much history,” Michelle said.
%20SawStop.jpg)
After arriving at the Men’s Shed, the cup was carefully restored by Peter Halsey, who delved into the history behind the cup’s creation. The restoration took over 72 hours. Parts that were broken off had to be completely restored whilst other pieces that had gone missing had to be made from scratch.
This treasured cup will return to the spotlight at the Hamilton Island Reunion this June to celebrate the legacy of outrigger paddling in the Whitsundays.
This is not the only project being developed in the shed. President Don Campbell is currently making a swinging bench for his daughter and will be adding the finishing touches soon.
The Men's Shed invites any history buffs, would-be-carpenters, or complete beginners to join their community.
Decked out with specialist equipment, the space is one of over 1200 across Australia operating under the Australian Men’s Shed Association. The scheme has an ongoing participation of over 50,000 men across Australia, and has been in operation since 1993.
%20Cup.jpg)
Newcomers will find guidance from experienced members, in a workshop specifically designed to ensure maximum safety.
Interested parties can attend the Men’s Shed every Tuesday and Thursday between 8am and 1pm.
Busta is a soft-hearted young Staffordshire cross with a calm, affectionate nature and a strong desire to be close to his people. At approximately one year old, this medium-sized dog has already shown himself to be an easygoing and loyal companion, well suited to a variety of homes.
Originally found in Ayr, Busta has quickly won over his carers with his gentle temperament and “big sook” personality. He enjoys affection, reassurance, and simply being near those he trusts. He walks well on a lead and has displayed a non-aggressive nature, making him a promising fit for a family environment.
Busta is considered suitable for homes with children and appears to interact well with other dogs, although further assessment is ongoing. His compatibility with cats has not yet been tested.
His ideal home would include secure fencing and an owner—whether a family, couple, or individual—seeking a loving, steady companion.
Busta is desexed, vaccinated, and up to date with all veterinary care. His adoption fee is $400.
To express your interest in adopting Busta, please message Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc and include your name, phone number, and “Busta.”
Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc is a foster-based organisation dedicated to placing animals into safe and caring homes.
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins, Sergeant Gary Hiles, Councillor Jan Clifford, and Manager of Whitsunday Counselling and Support Sharon Parker at the 2025 vigil. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
The Whitsunday Counselling and Support organisation will be hosting their annual Candle Lighting Ceremony in Cannonvale to mark the beginning of Domestic and Family Violence month on Wednesday 6th May. The vigil is part of the annual Queensland Domestic and Family Violence prevention month and will coincide with ceremonies simultaneously held across Queensland.
At the vigil, everyone will hold a candle to honour those who have lost their lives to domestic violence. Community organisations, businesses and the general public are all invited to attend.
Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month is run statewide with the support of the Department of Families, Seniors, Disability Services and Child Safety. The annual initiative aims to raise awareness of domestic violence, family violence and coercive control, highlighting the support services available, to send a clear message that violence in the community is not tolerated.
The theme for 2026 is unity: Together, Queenslanders can prevent domestic and family violence.
The Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network held its monthly barbeque on Friday 24th April with the usual community, spirit and great food.
The morning event featured guest speaker Rebecca Woods from the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, an organisation that offers a range of services for people struggling with their mental health.
Rebecca spoke about the importance of accessing services and reaching out when people are in need.
“When a lot of people think of the Neighbourhood Centre they think that’s just where the op shop is – but next to the op shop is a building with a lot going on,” Rebecca said.
The centre offers a family support programme which helps with a range of commonly faced issues including behaviour, separation, challenges at home with a branch for early childhood.
The centre also launched the Cannonvale Food Bank last September, offering free and low-cost supplies to community members.
“It’s open to anyone. It’s not means tested. You don’t have to produce a pension card or anything like that. Theres no stigma or judgement. Its open to anyone in the community and it’s just there to help everybody’s grocery budget go that little bit further.”
The Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre also facilitates outreach programmes, with professionals travelling from Mackay and Townsville to offer drug and alcohol counselling. The centre also hosts Alcoholics Anonymous meetings three nights a week on Monday, Wednesday and Friday.
“It’s open to anybody. Its discrete, its confidential and there’s no judgement.”
WSPN CEO Matt Stokes reiterated important messages for navigating mental health as a community.
“This issue is sadly still quite prevalent in the community. Our message is clear – suicide prevention is everyone’s job. If you are struggling yourself, the biggest thing you need to do is not isolate yourself. You need to reach out to a friend or family member and talk – keeping it in your head will make sure things start swirling the wrong way and before you know it, little problems have become big problems.”
Matt also emphasised the importance of looking for any signs in other people.
“You need to look out for your mates if you see changes in their behaviours – hitting the bottle, hard drugs, not sleeping, always tired, always cranky, not socialising as much as they used it. Ask the hard question – it might just save a life.”
WSPN hosts these BBQs on the last Friday of every month at 6.30am at Shirtfront Solutions, and all are invited to attend.
Whitsunday tourism operators have welcomed the Government’s Tourism Support Hub initiative. Photo source: Shutterstock
Just months after its launch, the Government’s Tourism Support Hub has surpassed 100 enquiries, marking an early milestone in its broader plan to reshape the state’s tourism future.
Developed under Queensland’s Destination 2045 initiative, the Tourism Support Hub has already drawn strong interest from Regional Tourism Organisations across the state, fielding enquiries spanning business development, agritourism, cultural tourism, national park permits and disaster recovery.
Chief Executive Officer of Tourism Whitsundays, Mr Tim Booth, has welcomed the initiative, saying the Tourism Support Hub will make a meaningful difference to how small and regional businesses operate.
“It can be quite difficult for small businesses to navigate government processes whilst they are busy running their business that they are passionate about and the whole reason they are working in the tourism space,” he said.
“Any tools and ways that the government can assist small businesses navigate permits or applying for grants to grow their businesses is only going to help and we encourage our businesses to take use of this service to minimise time wastage and maximise their time in their business.”
Once submitted, each Tourism Support Hub enquiry is paired with a dedicated tourism support officer who offers step-by-step guidance and tailored solutions for more complex issues.
Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said support from the State Government to assist tourism operators is always appreciated.
“The Tourism Hub is a dedicated portal, making it a simple process to contact Government about many issues as well as grant opportunities,” she said.
Mr Booth said he has seen firsthand that many small businesses across the Whitsunday Shire are seeking greater support navigating permits and grants, typically managed at a State Government level, with approvals for National Parks and Marine Parks consistently posing a major challenge for operators.
“We know the State Government is continuing to work on this [Permits across National Parks and Marine Parks] and this service is one of the ways they are helping businesses navigate this process,” he said.
“Having assistance available to maximise businesses across Queensland to be able to apply is beneficial to all regions.”
Chief Executive Officer of Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Dr Julia Evans, said there’s a strong, ongoing need for support agencies like the Tourism Support Hub in regional areas.
“Regional businesses often operate with fewer resources while navigating complex regulations, workforce challenges, and higher operating costs,” she said.
“Support that helps cut through red tape, streamline compliance, and provide access to trusted, high-quality business advice is not just valued — it’s essential. It enables businesses to focus on growth, adapt to changing conditions, and continue contributing to strong, resilient regional economies.”
Dr Evans said it is clear local businesses are contending with a mix of immediate pressures and long-standing structural challenges, now increasingly amplified. At a practical level, rising fuel costs and reduced aviation access are impacting visitor numbers, freight and the overall cost of doing business.
Beyond these immediate pressures, she noted the challenges closely reflect the broader priorities outlined in the Chamber’s Ten Point Plan.
“Businesses continue to navigate red tape and regulatory complexity, which can slow recovery and limit the ability to adapt quickly in changing conditions and delivering service excellence and maintaining a strong visitor experience is becoming more challenging as cost pressures rise, while collaboration across the business community is more important than ever to share knowledge, build capability, and support the next generation of operators,” she said.
“In short, the Whitsundays business community is not facing a single issue — they are managing a complex environment where cost pressures, access, workforce, infrastructure, and confidence all intersect. Addressing these challenges requires coordinated action across all levels of government, with a clear focus on regional conditions and opportunities.”
Tourism operators can find more information on the Tourism Support Hub at www.qld.gov.au/tourismsupporthub, or contact the team directly on 07 3101 2002 or via email at tourismsupporthub@detsi.qld.gov.au.
Next week, we bring our region together for one of the most important conversations we have each year — our State of the Region.
And this year, the message is simple. We need to think big.
The Whitsundays is not standing still. We’re growing and we are growing fast.
More people, more visitors, more investment, and more opportunity than we’ve seen in a long time. The question isn’t whether growth is coming. It’s whether we’re ready to make the most of it.
That’s exactly what State of the Region is about.
On Friday 8 May at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, we’ll hear from leaders across government, industry and sport. People who understand what it takes to step up, perform under pressure, and seize opportunity.
We’ve locked in an outstanding line-up including Dominique Lamb talking about the Brisbane 2032 Olympic opportunity, alongside an Olympic and Paralympic panel featuring Cate Campbell, Cedric Dubler, Al Vinney and Sam Tait.
These are people who know what “thinking big” actually looks like and more importantly, what it takes to deliver it.
But this isn’t just about hearing from others. It’s about what it means for us.
From our infrastructure pipeline and tourism growth, to housing, workforce and investment, we’ll be putting a clear focus on where the Whitsundays is heading and what needs to happen next.
Because the opportunities in front of us are real.
Brisbane 2032 is not just a Brisbane story. It’s a regional Queensland story and the Whitsundays has a genuine role to play if we position ourselves early and back it in.
That means backing local business, backing our young people and backing investment by making smart decisions now that set us up for the long term.
This event is about bringing all of that together, business, community and government, and getting on the same page.
If you care about where this region is heading, you should be in the room.
Because the future of the Whitsundays isn’t something that just happens.
It’s something we build together.
Home Brewitt is a locally owned home brewing supply store based in Proserpine, proudly servicing the Whitsundays and shipping Queensland-wide. Established in November 2023, the business was created with one clear goal — to build a welcoming space where people can learn, experiment and connect through the craft of brewing.
Home Brewitt supplies everything from beginner starter kits to advanced all-grain brewing systems and kegerators. Customers will find a wide range of fresh wort kits, grains, hops, yeast, cider and essences, along with personalised advice and ongoing support. Whether it’s a first brew or a refined competition recipe, we’re here to offer support and supply the quality ingredients and equipment needed for great results.
In recent years, more people have turned to home brewing as commercial prices rise and interest in craft-style beer grows. Customers are looking for better quality ingredients, more flavour control and the satisfaction of creating something themselves. Education and community have become just as important as the product — and that’s where Home Brewitt stands out.
Like many regional businesses, cost of freight can be challenging.
As business owners, our philosophy is simple: listen more than you talk, build relationships rather than just transactions, and never stop learning and adapting. These principles guide how we serve our customers and support our local community.
Being part of the local Chamber of Commerce provides valuable connections and opportunities to collaborate with other businesses.
Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry
For the past nine years, your locally owned and operated Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine has proudly supported local not-for-profits, sporting clubs and community initiatives – returning more than $264,000 back into the Whitsundays. And we’re only just getting started.
2026 is shaping up to be one of our biggest years yet.
From backing major regional events to supporting grassroots groups and school communities, we’re passionate about investing where it matters most – right here at home. If you’ve seen our fully equipped Community BBQ Trailer firing up at weekend events, you’ve already seen that support in action.
“Our profit-with-purpose model means the more our community banks with us, the more we can reinvest,” says Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine Chairman Mark Henry.
“It’s a cycle of support – when you back us, we back you.”
We’re proud to support a packed calendar of events across the region, including:
And that’s alongside our continued, year-round support of the many sporting and community groups that form the heart of our region.
Sponsorship applications are now open for local events and initiatives – including bookings for our popular BBQ Community Trailer. With limited funding and high demand, make sure your application shines.
Get started by contacting our Board Secretariat at secretary@whitsundaycel.com.au
Your Town. Your Bank. Everything You Need.
Feel good about where your money goes. Every account, loan or service with us helps build a stronger local community.
Visit Branch Manager Amanda and the team at Whitsunday Plaza Cannonvale. We’re open Monday to Friday, 9:30am–4:00pm (closed 1:00–2:00pm)
Or call us on (07) 4948 3599 or email cannonvale&proserpinemailbox@bendigoadelaide.com.au
Bendigo Bank – The better big bank
Student leaders from across the Whitsundays will come together at the B Kinder School Summit, building skills in leadership, connection and kindness to create positive change in their schools and communities. Photo supplied
In a continued effort to champion kindness and proactive wellbeing in schools, the B Kinder Foundation is set to return to the Whitsundays with its impactful B Kinder School Summits this May, building on the success of last year’s inaugural events.
Moving beyond short-term or “band-aid” approaches to mental health, the foundation focuses on early intervention, equipping young people with practical tools, strategies, and mindset shifts that foster a strong sense of belonging, self-esteem, and overall wellbeing. At the heart of this mission are the B Kinder Summits, immersive leadership experiences designed specifically for student leaders.
Created to spark thought, ignite passion, and build momentum, the summits empower students to step into their roles as ambassadors for a kinder, more connected world. Through engaging activities and meaningful discussions, participants are encouraged to reflect on their capacity to influence positive change within their schools and wider communities.
This year’s High School Summit will be held on Wednesday, 27 May at Proserpine State High School, bringing together student leaders from Proserpine State High School, Bowen State High School, and St Catherine’s Catholic College, with Whitsunday Christian College to be confirmed. The Primary School Summit will follow on Thursday, 28 May, with students from Proserpine State School and St Catherine’s Catholic College (primary) confirmed to attend, alongside several other schools pending confirmation.
The summits will once again be delivered in collaboration with Illuminate Education Australia, with experienced facilitator Adam Mostogl leading the sessions. Known for their innovative approach to educational design and student engagement, Illuminate Education plays a key role in ensuring the events are both impactful and memorable. B Kinder ambassador Tessa Jolley will also be present across both days, supporting students throughout the experience.
Running from 9am to 2:30pm at the Resource Centre within Proserpine State High School, the summits promise a full day of connection, inspiration, and growth.
More than just a day out of the classroom, the B Kinder Summits are designed as a catalyst for lifelong impact. Students leave not only inspired, but equipped with the confidence and tools to take meaningful action, embedding kindness into the culture of their schools and creating ripple effects that extend far beyond the classroom.
As the B Kinder Foundation continues to grow its reach, initiatives like these are helping to reshape the conversation around student wellbeing, placing kindness, leadership, and community at the centre of education.
Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc. is celebrating 13 years of partnership with Cruise Whitsundays, working together to protect the Whitsunday Islands and care for marine life in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef.
To mark the milestone, Eco Barge volunteers have created a colourful artwork of the Cruise Whitsundays logo made entirely from recycled bottle top lids collected during island clean-up trips.
Founder of Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc., Libby Edge, said the partnership has been instrumental in supporting both marine debris removal and turtle rehabilitation in the region.
“Cruise Whitsundays has been an incredible supporter of Eco Barge for 13 years,” Ms Edge said.
“Their support helps ensure the Whitsunday Turtle Rescue Centre can continue caring for sick and injured turtles, while also helping us remove marine debris from island beaches to protect the marine life that calls this region home.”
Since 2009, Eco Barge volunteers have removed over 277,947 kilograms of marine debris from the Whitsunday region and cared for 302 sick and injured marine turtles through the Whitsunday Turtle Rescue Centre.
For more information or to volunteer, visit http://www.ecobargecleanseas.org.au/
Ecobarge have created a new art piece to symbolise their partnership with Cruise Whitsundays, working in tandem to help turtles and clean debris from the ocean. Photo supplied
MP Amanda Camm met with community members this week to discuss the proposed Mt Challenger wind farm. Photo source: Facebook
Member for the Whitsundays Amanda Camm met with locals at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on Friday 24th April to provide an update in response to concerns over Alinta Energy’s proposed Mt Challenger Wind Farm.
The meeting attracted a passionate crowd, with Mayor Ry Collins also in attendance. To date there have been four community meetings held on the issue: two with Ms Camm, one with Federal Member Andrew Willcox and one broader community update session.
The Mt Challenger Wind Farm is a proposed project by Alinta Energy that seeks to develop over 30 turbines between Bowen and Proserpine in the Whitsunday Regional Council Area.
The proposal has been met with backlash by members of the community, most prominently the Whitsunday Wind Farm Action Group.
At Friday’s meeting, attendees raised concerns surrounding the objectivity of the Social Impact Assessment process. Also known as an SIA, the assessment is a mandatory stage of development to be conducted on large-scale energy projects under Queensland state law.
They also clarified that they want large-scale renewable energy projects like wind farms to be kept away from the coast and separate from homes with a minimum 3-kilometre setback from property boundaries. Several of the proposed turbine locations are currently planned close to existing rural homes, some situated within 1.5-kilometres of residences and less than 9-kilometres from Proserpine town centre.
Another key theme discussed was the eventual decommissioning of the turbines, as the community are seeking clear assurances that the structures will be properly decommissioned at the end of their life, with the site returned to its original condition.
The expected operating life of Alinta Energy’s turbines for this project is more than 30 years.
Ms Camm assured community members that their concerns and opposition to the project had been acknowledged and the issue would be further escalated.
“I want to give you all assurance that I am 100% against the project,” Ms Camm said.
It was also shared that Alinta’s proposals to erect a temporary ‘met mast’, a steel structure up to 160m high that would monitor wind and gather data to help determine whether the project is viable, have now been put on ‘pause’.
Ms Camm since highlighted the importance of the conversation.
"Spending time with the community and hearing directly from residents is incredibly important,” she shared.
“There are clear processes that projects like this must go through, and my focus is on ensuring the community understands how to engage at each stage, while making sure their feedback is acknowledged and carried forward.
“These conversations matter, and I will continue to support residents and ensure their voices are heard as each step of the process moves forward.”
According to Alinta Energy, the program is currently at the feasibility and engagement stage, which includes site-specific investigations and feedback from the community.
Such discussions took place at a pop-up office held by Alinta at Proserpine community centre on March 4th, though any further decisions regarding the project have not yet been shared.
“We’re committed to making a positive impact in communities to create social, economic, employment, educational, and environmental opportunities and outcomes.” The company stated.
“Our benefit sharing approach is all about listening to the community to meet local needs. This could include grants, sponsorships, or opportunities for education and skills development. The project is expected to bring a range of benefits, including jobs across construction, operations, and decommissioning phases; upgrades to essential services like roads and emergency response; and contributions to initiatives led by the community itself.”
Fuel price pressures and supply concerns are beginning to bite across the Whitsundays, with local businesses reporting rising costs, shifting customer behaviour and growing uncertainty. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
Whitsundays businesses are feeling the growing strain of fuel price volatility and supply uncertainty, as regional leaders push for stronger support and practical solutions to protect the local economy.
New data from Business Chamber Queensland highlights the scale of the issue, with 95 per cent of businesses reporting impacts and more than 70 per cent experiencing major or severe challenges.
Locally, early results from the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s Fuel Crisis Business Impact Survey reveal businesses are still operating, but under increasing pressure.
According to Executive Officer Dr Julia Evans, rising fuel costs and supply concerns are already affecting day-to-day operations, staffing and customer behaviour.
Businesses across sectors including tourism, construction, transport and professional services reported adjusting operations, reducing hours, changing logistics, delaying jobs and shifting to remote work or carpooling.
Eighty per cent of respondents reported fuel-related cost increases of between 11 and 25 per cent, while a further 20 per cent experienced increases as high as 50 per cent.
Customer behaviour is also shifting, with businesses reporting fewer bookings and enquiries, increased cancellations, greater price sensitivity and a noticeable move toward online purchasing.
The Chamber’s President Mr Milostic said the situation is escalating rapidly.
“The high cost of living and high cost of doing business existed before the fuel crisis, they are now being amplified.”
While fuel supply remains stable for now, the Chamber warns that broader economic impacts are already being felt across the region, with ongoing uncertainty likely to shape business conditions in the months ahead.
Dry conditions are expected to intensify across the Whitsundays as a strong El Niño looms. Photo source: Shutterstock
The upcoming 2026 El Niño has been forecast to be among the strongest on record, bringing hotter, drier weather in the coming weeks.
With already drier-than-average conditions recorded in early 2026, farmers are bracing for a challenging season as worsening soil moisture deficits and water scarcity raise concerns.
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins has sought to reassure the community, saying Council will continue to keep a close watch on the evolving conditions.
“As Chair of the Local Disaster Management Group, we’re watching the El Niño outlook closely and what it could mean on the ground here in the Whitsundays,” said Mayor Collins.
“We’ve only just come through flooding, so the prospect of flipping straight into dry conditions is a real concern.”
Mayor Collins assures residents the Whitsunday Shire will remain in a strong position, pointing to Peter Faust Dam, which is currently at 100 per cent capacity; the first time it has reached full capacity since 2011.
“Peter Faust Dam gives us a solid buffer, but we know how quickly conditions can change in North Queensland, and having come out of the ag sector myself, I know exactly how quickly things can tighten up,” he said.
“When you start talking water, pasture and input costs all going the wrong way at once, it puts real pressure on families and businesses. And when ag feels it, the whole region feels it.”
Mayor Collins acknowledged that although the farming sector are feeling the pressures at the moment, prolonged heat and dry conditions can also impact tourism, increase bushfire risk, and put added strain on local communities.
Mayor Collins said that while Whitsunday Regional Council is taking the necessary precautions and making preparations, it cannot face such an unpredictable period alone, calling for additional support from higher levels of government.
“We’re not sitting back. We’re actively managing water, working closely with emergency services on bushfire readiness, and continuing to strengthen our resilience planning across the region,” he said.
“But the reality is regions like ours can’t carry this alone. We’ll need strong, ongoing support from State and Federal Government — particularly for our primary producers and for health and wellbeing services, because we know the pressure builds quickly when conditions turn.
“North Queensland communities are tough — we always are. But it’s about being prepared, backing each other in, and making sure our communities have the support they need to get through whatever comes next.”
131 sanitary products were donated by generous members of the community to locals in need this week, in an initiative driven by Share The Dignity.
Targeting period poverty, the organisation works to make a real difference in the lives of those experiencing homelessness, fleeing domestic violence, or otherwise in need, by distributing period products to women, girls, and anyone who menstruates who needs support.
Their motto? “When someone is doing it tough, the last thing on their mind should be dealing with their period.”
For their March ‘Dignity Drive’, Share the Dignity installed collection points at Whitsunday Woolworth stores for shoppers wanting to support their mission, and the yield has been delivered to the Whitsunday Counselling and Support Office.
Emma Anderson, a volunteer for the organisation and newcomer to the Whitsundays, expressed her gratitude for the generosity of the community she now calls home and highlighted that all donated products will be used locally.
With March seeing soaring fuel costs, causing many of us to feel a squeeze, the drive highlighted how even in tough times, the community is willing to give.
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2026 Mackay and Whitsunday Life Pty Ltd.
