
The Whitsundays Writers Festival has announced the winners of its 2026 Stanza Bonanza poetry competition and inaugural Fast Fiction competition, showcasing storytelling talent inspired by the Whitsundays’ landscapes, people and imagination. Sydney writer and journalist Linda Daniele was named the winner of the 2026 Stanza Bonanza poetry competition, while Airlie Beach author Natalie Stockdale took out the festival’s first Fast Fiction title. Presented to mark World Poetry Day, the Stanza Bonanza competition invited poets of all levels to submit an original poem of up to 20 lines inspired by the prompt: “A Whitsundays postcard from 100 years ago, or 100 years from now.” Meanwhile, the Fast Fiction competition — launched for International Day of Storytelling — challenged writers to craft a story in 250 words or less responding to the prompt: “Something unexpected washed ashore on Whitehaven Beach…” Festival Director Richard Evans said both competitions attracted a strong response from writers across a wide range of backgrounds and experience levels. “The response to Stanza Bonanza was a wonderful reminder of how powerfully poetry can connect place, memory and imagination,” Richard said. “Writers embraced the prompt in inventive and surprising ways, and the standard of entries was exceptionally strong.” Speaking about the inaugural Fast Fiction competition, Richard said the quality of submissions highlighted the creativity within the region and beyond. “The standard of entries in our first Fast Fiction competition was excellent,” he said. “It was exciting to see so many writers embrace the challenge of telling a compelling story with limited words and time.” Based in Sydney, Ms Daniele is a writer, journalist and editor who has worked in legal publishing for more than 15 years, alongside freelance journalism and editorial work for On The Side. Her writing has also been recognised in the Sydney Mardi Gras Short Story Competition. Her winning poem, Dear You—, explored themes of memory, time and environmental reflection through imagery inspired by the Whitsundays landscape. Airlie Beach-based Ms Stockdale is published by Big Sky Publishing and works professionally as a memoir writer. Like many locals, she draws inspiration from the region’s natural beauty, including Whitehaven Beach, which she describes as “our own backyard”. Her winning short story follows a man confronting memories of conflict after discovering a rusted rifle washed ashore decades after losing it during the Rhodesian conflict. A highlight of the Fast Fiction competition was the participation of students from Whitsunday Christian College and Proserpine State School. “Seeing teachers and students encourage with the competition reminds us why these opportunities matter – they create space for young people to imagine, write, and share their voices,” Richard said. Both winners will receive a $100 cash prize and a free day pass to the 2026 Whitsundays Writers Festival, which will be held on Sunday, September 13, at the Whitsunday Marine Club. Richard encouraged entrants to continue exploring opportunities through the festival’s literary programs and competitions. “We’re grateful to everyone who entered,” he said. “The quality of work we received was inspiring, and we encourage all entrants to keep writing, keep experimenting, and keep sharing their work.” Festival organisers have confirmed the full 2026 program and tickets are now available through the festival website.
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Bella is looking for her forever family in the Whitsundays and beyond. She is a one year old Staffordshire cross, medium sized, full of love, and so ready for someone to choose her and mean it. She has been through more than most. Surrendered, rehomed, then unwell, and then without a home again through no fault of her own. Through all of it she has remained gentle, affectionate, and completely devoted to the people around her. Bella loves children, thrives on connection, and just wants to be close to her people. She is best suited to a home where someone is around most of the time because when she has her person, she gives everything she has. She has already been through so much. She just needs someone to choose her for life. To adopt Bella, DM Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc on Facebook with your name, phone number and "Bella". The adoption fee is $400. She is microchipped, recovered and healthy.
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The Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre has raised $1,860 for Cancer Council Queensland during its annual Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea event. Held with a tropical theme, the fundraiser brought together locals for a colourful morning filled with community spirit, laughter and friendly competition, including prizes for the loudest tropical shirt. The Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre thanked everyone who attended, donated and supported the event, with special recognition given to Club Whitsunday for partnering on the event and providing the brunch menu. Organisers said events like Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea highlight the strength of the local community in supporting people impacted by cancer. CAPTION: Tamara Noble and Rebecca Woods from the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre with raffle prizes at the organisation’s Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea fundraiser. Photo supplied
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A new North Queensland billboard campaign is calling on the community to help turn ocean waste into something useful, as Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc. continues its mission to protect the Great Barrier Reef. Every year, Eco Barge removes tonnes of marine debris from islands across the reef. Now, in partnership with Paradise Outdoor Advertising (POA), the organisation is urging locals to join volunteers in transforming 24 tonnes of collected ocean waste into recycled products. The campaign, displayed across key regional locations, encourages people to sign up and become part of the solution by volunteering in the Whitsundays. Libby Edge, Founder of Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc, said the initiative represents an important next step in the organisation’s work. “Every piece of marine debris we remove from the islands has a story,” Libby said. “With the support of our volunteers, we’re now working to transform that debris into new products, showing that what washes up on our shores can become part of the solution rather than part of the problem.” Since 2009, Eco Barge volunteers have removed 277,947 kilograms of marine debris, completed 569 clean-up trips, engaged 14,291 volunteers, and cared for 297 sick and injured marine turtles. POA CEO Mitch James said billboards were a powerful way to inspire action. “Billboards are designed to capture attention and deliver a powerful message, in this case giving people an opportunity to protect the Great Barrier Reef through local action.” He added the campaign aims to turn awareness into participation across the region. The campaign will run year-round. More information is available at www.ecobargecleanseas.org.au CAPTION: Volunteers with Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc. sort and remove marine debris collected from Whitsunday islands as part of efforts to protect the Great Barrier Reef and turn ocean waste into recycled products. Photo supplied
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The Whitsundays has set an all-time record of international visitor expenditure.
Despite the decline in visitor numbers, international visitor expenditure climbed to a record $254 million (up 16.6%), consistent with national and state trends.
International visitors stayed a total of 1.1 million nights (down 3.7%), with the average length of stay steady at 6.6 nights. Meanwhile, international travellers are spending more, with average spend per visitor rising 23.5% to $1,483 and spend per night increasing 21.1% to $226.
The UK remained the largest source market at 47,000 visitors (down 5.7%). Growth was seen from Continental Europe (+5.9%) and Germany (+1.5%), while arrivals from the USA (-28.1%) and France (-8.7%) declined. Asia remained steady (-0.9%).
Despite a 5.5% drop in visitation to 171,000 and fewer visitor nights (down 3.7% to 1.1 million), overall expenditure hit a record $254 million, up 16.6%. Visitors are staying slightly longer (6.6 nights on average) and spending significantly more, with spend per visitor up 23.5% to $1,483 and spend per night up 21.1% to $226.
Market trends show mixed results: the UK (down 5.7%), USA (down 28.1%), France (down 8.7%), and Asia (down 0.9%) declined, while Germany (up 1.5%) and Continental Europe (up 5.9%) recorded growth.
Tim Booth, CEO of Tourism Whitsundays, said the results underline The Whitsundays strength as a premium destination.
“Internationally, we’ve hit a record $254 million in visitor expenditure, even with fewer arrivals. Visitors are clearly recognising the unique value of The Whitsundays, choosing to stay longer and spend more,” said Tim Booth.
“Domestically, it’s important to remember this is just six months of new DoTS data and already we’re seeing more than $400 million in visitor spending. That shows incredible demand and underlines The Whitsundays standing as one of Australia’s most desirable holiday spots.”
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the Whitsundays continues to punch well above its weight as one of Queensland’s tourism powerhouses.
“This growth in visitor spend means more jobs, more small business activity, and more opportunities right across our region, from Bowen to Airlie Beach, from Collinsville to our 74 islands,” he said.
“As we look ahead to projects like the Whitsunday Skyway and our role as host of Olympic sailing in 2032, the future for tourism in the Whitsundays is brighter than ever.”

The Whitsunday resident held one of the five division one winning entries nationally in Saturday Gold Lotto draw 4607, drawn Saturday 13 September 2025 and takes home a neat $2 million.
His dream, is to create an emu racing track on his property because of his love for emu’s at a young age.
“I could use the money to build an emu racing track on my property between Prosperine and Airlie Beach,” he joked.
“I've loved emus since childhood and have always wondered if I could do such a thing. Now with $2 million – who knows!”
Although the winner has already plans for the future it wasn’t without a stop at the RSL to celebrate with some mates.
The winner who was not a member of The Lott Members Club was not alerted about his win until an official from The Lott contacted the man.
“Thanks mate! I can’t believe it!”
“I’ve been playing Saturday Gold Lotto for two years. I never expected for this to happen to me.
“I’m still decompressing from the win. I found out Saturday morning and have been sitting on it ever since.”
His winning entry was purchased at News Whitsunday in Cannonvale and owner Rich Bates him and his team were ecstatic to have sold a division one winning entry to a local customer.
He added that this ticket will be their third division one winning ticket, and are becoming known as the lucky store.

Amanda Camm MP, Member for Whitsunday, welcomed the Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Brent Mickelberg, to the Whitsundays last week, to inspect the existing boat ramp at Shute Harbour, as part of the LNP Crisafulli Government’s commitment to deliver for regional Queensland.
This visit marks a significant step forward in addressing long-standing safety and congestion issues at the current ramp, which has been widely criticized for its poor design.
The existing boat ramp and walkway is a fixed-structure, meaning it is submerged at high tide, making it unsafe and unusable for boat owners. The design does not provide consistent access for boats, which is the primary function of a boat ramp.
There are insufficient car and trailer parking facilities, leading to situations where boaters cannot launch their vessels.
Many users feel the boat ramp was poorly designed under the previous Labour government, with insufficient community input and disregard for local needs.
A key proposal for the upgrade is the installation of a floating pontoon, which can be removed or adjusted to suit tidal conditions.
Member for Whitsunday, Amanda Camm MP, joined Minister Mickelberg and Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor, Ry Collins, for the site visit, and reaffirmed her strong commitment to ensuring the local boating and fishing community plays a central role in shaping the project.
“The current boat ramp simply doesn’t meet the needs of our community,” Amanda Camm MP said. “I have heard loud and clear from locals that a better, safer, more accessible facility is needed – and that’s exactly what we’ll deliver."
Ms Camm confirmed that community consultation will play a vital role in the ramp’s design “Significant interest has already been shown by our local fishing and boating community, and I am committed to ensuring those community members will have input".
“The new boat ramp will form a key part of the broader expansion of the Shute Harbour Precinct, and I look forward to working closely with Whitsunday Regional Council to integrate the project into long-term planning for the area”.
Consultation details and construction timelines will be released in due course.
Minister Mickelberg and Amanda Camm at Shute Harbour Boat Ramp. Photo supplied

Tourism Whitsundays have announced their 2025/2026 board of directors, with the new line-up being confirmed at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) held last Thursday at NRMA Airlie Beach Holiday Park.
Tourism Whitsundays has welcomed two new directors to its Board, with Liza Muller and Katelyn Aslett joining a team that reflects the region’s diverse tourism landscape.
Meanwhile, returning directors Nathan Fleming and Phil Browne will continue their roles, ensuring consistency and providing an experienced understanding as Tourism Whitsundays builds on recent achievements.
Tourism Whitsundays is guided by an Executive Board made up of local tourism leaders and key partners. The Board includes people from island resorts, accommodation, marine and youth tourism, transport, as well as representatives from Whitsunday Regional Council and Bowen Tourism & Business. Together, they provide direction and support to make sure our region’s tourism industry keeps growing strong.
Tourism Whitsundays extended its gratitude to outgoing directors Nicole Graham, Sue Watson and Carly Povey, recognising their valuable contributions and the expertise they shared over the past year.
Chair of Tourism Whitsunday Julie Telford thanked the outgoing Board Members for the commitment and passion they showed in supporting local tourism over the past year.
“We are also pleased to welcome our incoming directors, whose fresh perspectives and wealth of experience will further strengthen our Board,” she added.
“Together, we will continue to advance the Whitsundays as one of Queensland’s premier holiday destinations.”
CEO of Tourism Whitsundays Tim Booth said the AGM is always a chance to thank outgoing board members for their contribution, welcome new nominees and reflect on what’s been achieved
“This year we’ve seen record-breaking visitor spend internationally underlining The Whitsundays position as one of Queensland’s leading destinations,” he said.
“Looking ahead, we’re focused on working with our members and partners to build on this success and drive even stronger results for the region.”
The Tourism Whitsundays Board 2025/2026
Katelyn Aslett, Liza Muller, Secretary Elizabeth Hackett, Mayor Ry Collins, CEO Tim Booth, Chair Julie Telford, Tate Fleming, and Phil Browne
(absent Deputy Chair Tom Young, Daniel Gschwind, Jenn Honnery)
Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

More than 742 people came together at the Bowen Community Carnival to celebrate Child Protection Week, transforming the day into a exciting showcase of fun, connection, and advocacy.
Hosted by Bowen Community Centre and coordinated by the one and only Mrs Xena Yasso of Cooinda Family Centre, the event highlighted the power of community spirit.
Children were treated to an incredible lineup of free activities, including two petting zoos, jumping castles, train rides, merry-go-rounds, a rock climbing wall, and a reptile display. Local services, including Bowen Police (with Sgt. Michelle and new PLO Abby Paul), Stella Life, Selectability, Whitsunday Counselling Services, and Girudala Community Co-Op, offered games and support for families throughout the day.
Free food and drinks kept the energy flowing, and the festivities wrapped up with a joyful colour run and plenty of vouchers for the new lolly shop.
Xena Yasso shared that this year’s theme, “Shifting from Conversation to Action,” encourages real steps toward creating safer environments for children. Bowen Community Centre’s mission remains simple but powerful: every child counts. “We don’t see colour, race, or gender we see potential, leaders, and the future standing right in front of us.”
Special thanks to our generous sponsors: Abbot Point Operations, Whitsunday Regional Council, Bowen Community Market Group, Grace Christian Fellowship, Child Protection and Bowen Community Centre.
Contributed with thanks to Bowen Community Centre Executive Officer Stephanie Cora
Sponsors of Bowen Community Carnival. Photo supplied

The Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre is set to bring back a tradition that has been missed by film fans in the community for a number of years.
The Whitsunday Film Society originally began in 2018 however it was forced to close in 2023 after declining membership made it financially unsustainable.
Thankfully, this is all about to change - on October 14 at 1pm the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre again will host a sign on, inviting everyone in the community over the age of 18 to join the society for 2026.
Membership for 2026 has been set at $55, which includes 11 films across the year. Screenings will be held monthly in the Endeavour Room at the Neighbourhood Centre, with a program featuring a mix of new releases and classic titles. The emphasis will be on creating an affordable, social experience for members of the community, with afternoon tea included.
The society previously attracted around 60 members and organisers are aiming for an initial base of at least 30 financial members to get started. Early meetings have already seen encouraging attendance, suggesting strong momentum for the relaunch.
Membership is open to all adults over the age of 18, with organisers keen to welcome both returning supporters and new faces. The goal is to build a sustainable committee and ensure the Film Society continues as a long-term cultural and social offering for the Whitsundays.
WHAT: Whitsunday Film Society
WHERE: The Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre
WHEN: October 14 at 1pm
Go to the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre on October 14 at 1pm to sing up for the film society in 2026. Stock image

This month, we highlight long-time Chamber member Elizabeth Hackett, Executive Chair of Australian Adventure Tourism Group (AATG) and Operations Manager of Magnums Unique Accommodation, a well-known Airlie Beach property that has evolved with the region’s tourism landscape for over 30 years.
Originally developed as a honeymooners’ village, Magnums transformed into a backpacker resort during the pilot strike era, and now stands as a modern 3.5-star destination for couples and independent travellers. Centrally located in the heart of Airlie Beach, Magnums offers clean, affordable accommodation paired with relaxed tropical charm and friendly service.
Elizabeth has managed the property for three decades, building on the vision of her late husband, Michael Hackett. “Michael saw the potential of this real estate as part of a greater strategy for the town. I was fortunate to be entrusted to carry that vision forward.”
Today, she leads Magnums and AATG through a new era of tourism, marked by a growing demand for nature-based, sustainable, and experience-driven travel. The group is in the final stages of approval for an exciting new project that will deliver a world-class, nature-focused tourism experience in the Whitsundays — with Magnums set to evolve as part of this development. The Whitsunday Skyway project will deliver considerable public benefit to the region.
Elizabeth currently sits on the Board of Tourism Whitsundays and is also the Chair of Judges for the Queensland Tourism Awards.
Workforce stability in the current climate remains a strength, but managing yield and OTA reliance is a challenge. Elizabeth and her team are focused on building direct booking channels and guest loyalty to improve profitability and engagement.
Her top business advice:
Invest in your team — they are your greatest asset.
Lead with integrity — trust is everything.
Think regionally — when the region thrives, so does your business.
Elizabeth values the Chamber’s collective strength, saying, “It’s inspiring to be part of a network working toward shared success across our region.”
Learn more about Magnums Accommodation: https://www.magnums.com.au/
Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry

When you bank with Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine, you’re doing more than managing your money, you’re helping build a stronger Whitsundays.
Community Banks offer the best of both worlds: the full range of modern banking products and services backed by the security of Bendigo Bank, Australia’s most trusted bank, combined with the personal service and local investment of a community-owned model. The key difference is that profits don’t just leave town. Instead, they’re reinvested directly into schools, clubs, events and initiatives, creating a cycle of support that benefits everyone.
The Cannonvale–Proserpine branch opened its doors in June 2012 and is one of more than 300 Bendigo Community Banks across Australia. Its establishment was made possible by local shareholders who raised $800,000 to bring a bank into the Whitsundays. Their efforts began in 2009, when a passionate group of residents formed a Steering Committee, ran public meetings, and rallied support through newsletters, supermarket stalls, and business visits.
“Our success is based on our profit-with-purpose model, which sees a percentage of profits invested back into the community,” says Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine Chair, Mark Henry. “We thank our shareholders for backing the Whitsundays and providing an essential banking service, and all the passionate local directors past and present for their hard work and dedication.”
Today, the branch is led by Manager Amanda Anderson and offers the full suite of personal, business and wealth services. Customers can access everything from home loans, savings accounts and insurance to agribusiness lending, refinancing, equipment finance, and financial advice – all delivered face-to-face by people who understand local needs.
There’s also good news for Proserpine customers. Through Australia Post’s Bank@Post service, Bendigo Bank account holders can deposit cash or cheques, withdraw money, and check balances at the Proserpine Licensed Post Office. Pensioners and concession card holders can even make no-fee withdrawals.
Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine is equally committed to supporting local business. Senior Business Relationship Manager, Luke Sheppard, regularly visits Cannonvale and Airlie Beach to provide tailored banking solutions to business owners.
Beyond banking, the branch has invested more than $249,000 back into the community over the past seven years, funding everything from school programs and conservation initiatives to sports clubs and major regional events.
And if you’ve seen Bendigo Bank Piggy or the branch’s popular Community BBQ Trailer at a local event, you’ve seen that commitment in action. Sponsorship applications are now open. Find out more by contacting secretary@whitsundaycel.com.au
Your Town. Your Bank.
Visit Amanda and the team at Whitsunday Plaza Cannonvale
Call (07) 4948 3599
Email cannonvale&proserpinemailbox@bendigoadelaide.com.au
Bendigo Bank – the better big bank.

It was early in 1961. Edwin and Bernice Pattemore were holidaying in North Queensland and discovered Airlie Beach. After deciding to stay the night at the Airlie Beach Motel, they purchased tickets to visit some of the islands. While driving to the old wooden jetty at Abell Point, they noticed a “For Sale” sign on a farm owned by Dick Harris situated at the bottom of the hill as you enter Airlie Beach. Edwin left Bernice at the jetty and returned to enquire more about the farm sale. And the rest is history …
Before leaving Airlie Beach, they had purchased the property of seven acres on first sight. The Pattermores went on to develop that land, fulfilling a long-time dream of Ed’s to own and operate a caravan park. At this stage there was only one caravan park in the area, that being at Proserpine. There were two camping reserves available - one located on the site near where the weekly markets are presently held in Airlie and a small camping area located on the beach opposite where the Cannonvale School now stands.
Back home in Caloundra, it was full steam ahead to finalise building commitments and before long, Ed was loading up his FJ Holden ute and caravan and was bound for Airlie Beach; a second ute and trailer load of materials soon following. During the next school holidays, Bernice and the children travelled north to the inspect the new adventure and to assist. Son, Rodney, described that the working hours were long, conditions were average but the excitement was high. Ed Pattemore’s Airlie Beach Caravan Park was becoming a reality.
By late 1961, the caravan park was opened with vans literally waiting at the front gate. There were about twenty grassed sites available at the time. The work was by no means complete and Ed made concrete slabs for caravans to park beside and cleared overgrown grass to make more sites.
As Christmas approached, Ed placed coloured lights in one of the large pine trees in the front of the park adding to the atmosphere. After a festive season when the lights were turned off, Ed was approached by local fishermen to leave the lights on as they were using them as a landmark to navigate their return at night. Airlie Bay was becoming a busy port.
By December 1962, the entire family had settled in Airlie. The caravan park continued to grow. Cabins were built and more sites were created. The area across the small gully that ran through the property was extended with terrace style landscaping, concrete slabs, caravan power and water points as well as a second amenities block on the back boundary.
When Airlie Beach had started to expand, and with it the charter boat industry, Ed had foreseen a need and became involved in arranging cruises and charters - a great incentive for caravan park patrons to stay a bit longer. Before long, he was selling tickets from the office which also served as a shop for guests’ needs. By 1965, the Airlie Beach Store (which burnt down in 2018) had replaced the caravan shop and office and more caravans had been added for use as overnight accommodation.
The business flourished. Many patrons returned each year; many more came on the recommendation of previous guests. School holidays were also popular with locals from Proserpine, Bowen and Mackay. Airlie Beach was moving ahead.
In 1967, Ed sold the business to Tom and Ivy Matthews. This later became what was Wanderer’s Paradise. Ed and Bernice remained in the area for a while before heading off in different directions but not before they had left their mark on the tourism industry of Airlie Beach.
Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum. Thanks also to Rod Pattemore for his recollections.
Pattemores Caravan Park 1963 with Bernice in centre. Photo supplied: Proserpine Historical Museum.
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As one of the fastest growing local government areas in Queensland, the Whitsundays is a region that lives and breathes sport. From our junior players and weekend warriors to our passionate volunteers and club leaders, sport is part of our identity and a big part of what brings our community together.
That is why Council is so focused on delivering the new Whitsunday Regional Sports Precinct. This project will create modern, fit for purpose sporting facilities that our kids, families and clubs will enjoy for generations to come.
Over the past six months, Council has been refining project costs, defining the boundaries of stage one and working closely with the Department of Transport and Main Roads to understand intersection requirements and cost sharing arrangements. We have now engaged an external project manager to guide the delivery, finalise detailed engineering design and prepare the planning application.
Some key milestones ahead include lodging the planning application in late 2025 or early 2026, followed by public consultation early next year. Once consultation is complete, Council will adopt the refined master plan in mid-2026, with detailed design continuing alongside further engagement with our Pioneer sporting groups.
We know clubs are eager to see progress on the ground. The intersection to access the precinct is the most significant step and requires collaboration across multiple levels of government. Once this critical piece of infrastructure is delivered, it will unlock the future of sport in the Whitsundays and pave the way for site works and construction.
During public consultation, Council will share feedback from earlier interviews with sporting clubs and present proposed stage one inclusions. We will continue to work closely with clubs on refining design, field sharing, operational models and affordability to ensure the precinct meets community needs and supports long term sustainability.
Our goal is to complete the first stage of the new sports precinct by the end of 2027. This project is about more than just new fields. It is about creating a vibrant sporting hub that supports participation, encourages healthy lifestyles and provides a lasting legacy for our growing region.
Together, we are building the future of sport in the Whitsundays, and I thank all our local clubs and volunteers for being part of that journey

Since opening in May, over 50,000 people have enjoyed the Airlie Beach Foreshore Ferris Wheel, soaring 35 metres high for 360° views of Airle Beach, the islands and our turquoise coastline. From family fun to 17 memorable marriage proposals, it’s been a highlight of the season.
It’s now time to let us know what you think! Have your say on whether it should return next year before consultation closes on 31 October 2025. For more information and cast your vote, head to Council’s online Engagement Portal – Yoursay Whitsundays.

Many people living with ADHD find that sleep doesn’t always come easily. Racing thoughts, restlessness, or difficulty winding down can make bedtime feel frustrating. Yet, good sleep is essential. Good sleep helps you focus and improves energy. It contributes to emotional well-being and resilience.
One helpful strategy is to build a consistent routine. Going to bed and waking at the same time each day trains the brain and body to recognise when it’s time to rest. A calming pre-sleep ritual, such as gentle stretches, listening to soft music, or reading a light book, can signal the mind to slow down.
Reducing screen time in the hour before bed is another key step. The blue light from phones, tablets, and TVs interferes with the body’s natural sleep cycle. Try swapping scrolling for journaling or planning tomorrow’s priorities instead. This helps clear mental clutter.
Finally, pay attention to your sleep environment. A cool, dark, quiet room supports restful sleep. Weighted blankets or white-noise machines may also provide comfort and reduce restlessness.
Sleep may never feel perfect, but with the right support, it can become far more manageable. If sleep is a struggle for you or your child, professional strategies can help.
“If you’d like more support in managing ADHD for yourself or your family, visit my website https://www.personaltransitions.com.au/ or give me a call 0418708214.”

Spanish-born hospitality professional Joan arrived in Airlie Beach in early 2024, and he hasn’t looked back since.
“I was travelling with my girlfriend, we decided to do all the East Coast with the van, and we stopped in Airlie Beach, and I fell in love with the place,” he said.
“We decided to spend the rest of the visa here looking for a job.”
Joan is now the restaurant manager at The Garden Bar at Coral Sea Marina and he brings more than a decade of experience in hospitality, including roles in hotels and restaurants all over the world but Joan has found his calling in hospitality.
“I can enjoy more time with the customers, I am closer with the customers here”.
Joan also said at The Garden Bar, the staff have created a family atmosphere which he thinks guests can sense and be apart of.
“The atmosphere is really important, and I think from the owners to all the staff, we have a good team, a great atmosphere” said Joan.
“I believe we are one of the best restaurants and function spaces in Airlie Beach”
“We have a good balance in the restaurant, from the food to the service. We take care of our customers and that’s one of our strongest attributes.”
The Garden Bar draws both locals and tourists, around 50/50 and Joan said he is proud to have locals and returning customers to The Garden Bar. The extensive cocktail list is another reason Joan thinks keeps customers returning. He said The Garden Bar is the best place to get a cocktail in Airlie Beach.
The International Menu at The Garden Bar is another way people keep returning for more.
Their Seafood Platter for Two dazzles with oysters, prawns, scallops, calamari, and reef fish ceviche, while the Garden Bar Share Platter piles chicken wings, calamari, fish tacos, salad, and garlic bread.
Mains cater to every taste bud and craving, and includes the Classic Cheese Burger, Fresh Fish Tacos with pineapple salsa, Spanish Mackerel, or Port Lincoln mussels in white wine and chilli. Vegetarians and vegans can enjoy Mediterranean Fettuccine or Roast Cauliflower & Vegetable Curry with coconut rice and naan.
Above all what sets The Garden Bar apart from every other restaurant in Airlie Beach, is the Marina setting, view, and stunning sunsets.
Joan recalls thinking “Oh my goodness, we are working right now, I work here!” Whilst watching a sunset at work.
With their welcoming team, signature cocktails, and unbeatable sunset views The Garden Bar has become a standout dining destinations. Blending local charm with tourists, the restaurant continues to offer a warm, relaxed atmosphere that keeps both visitors and locals coming back time and again.
Joan Civera from The Garden Bar. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

For more than 15 years, Executive Chef Zibby Deca has been crafting dishes across pubs, clubs, fine dining restaurants, and private events. But for the past nine months, he’s been calling Club Whitsunday home, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a passion for food that goes beyond the plate.
Originally from Poland, he arrived in Australia 16 years ago, first settling in Brisbane before moving north to Airlie Beach, a move that quickly became permanent.
“I loved it here and decided to stay,” he said.
The dry-aged Tomahawk has become an attraction of Club Whitsunday. Aged for up to six weeks and weighing up to two kilograms, the Tomahawk has become a favourite for sharing, with diners returning regularly to experience it again.
“The bigger cuts are about sharing, but they’ve become very popular,” said Zibby.
He also said the most rewarding part of the job is the customer feedback.
“My most favourite is the smile on customers’ faces at the end, when they walk out, wave to me and say thank you,” he said.
Zibby doesn’t actually have a favourite dish to cook or eat, instead he said the joy on customer's faces is the real joy in cooking.
“Every chef should strive for the happiness of their customer,” he added.
Club Whitsunday also runs daily specials, which change regularly and give diners the chance to try something new.
While the Tomahawk may be stealing the spotlight, Zibby says diners can expect much more in the months ahead. The club is preparing to launch a revised seasonal menu that will feature new dishes alongside updated favourites. Though he keeps the details close to his chest, he promises the menu will cater to the tastes of the Whitsunday community while offering something fresh and surprising.
Bookings for Club Whitsunday’s bistro can be made via the club’s website.
Executive Chef Zibby Deca and the dry ager at Club Whitsunday
Club Whitsunday specialise in their dry aged Tomahawk steak

Friday 3 October
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Graham Rix (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Shaun Diver (from 8pm)
Saturday 4 October
Airlie Beach Hotel: Dirty Deeds (2pm - 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: DJ Night (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Kieran McCarthy (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Shaun Diver (from 8pm)
Sunday 5 October
Airlie Beach Hotel: Dirty Deeds (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
Colonial Palms Motor Inn: Jazz on the Deck with Nick Di Gregorio & Simon Lamb (2pm - 5pm)
Grand View Hotel: Nathan Marks (4pm - 8pm)
Sorrento: Ash Smith (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Josiah (from 8pm)
Monday 6 October
Coral Sea Marina Resort: Coralene Beach Club (2pm - 6pm)
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Tim Hibberd (from 8pm)
Tuesday 7 October
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm)
Wednesday 8 October
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm)
Thursday 9 October
Airlie Beach Hotel: Aaron Saxon (6.30pm - 9.30pm)
Sorrento: Lucy Rose (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Sam McCann (from 8pm)