On Monday 15 September, 24 people took the pledge and the next step to become Australian Citizens.

Held at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre (PEC) with Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins, Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox, Whitsunday Regional Council Councillor Clay Bauman, and Uncle Leo Gabey present on the day.

Mayor Collins welcomed the new citizens, sharing what it means to be Australian and affirming that they are now part of this vibrant and enriching culture.

"Australia is built on values like fairness, equality, and respect for every individual. We believe in giving everyone a fair go. Working hard, supporting our communities, and embracing the unique qualities that each person brings," he said.

"As new citizens, you are now part of this shared journey, one that celebrates our differences and strengthens our unity.

"I know that each of you will carry these values forward, contributing to the ongoing story of our nation.

"Your diverse backgrounds, cultures, and experiences enrich our community, and we welcome you wholeheartedly."

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Coffee, Connections & Conversations

Last Friday Whitsunday Chamber and Porters Mitre 10 Whitsunday hosted a Pop Ip event and it was a morning was full of energy, conversation, and community spirit, with more than 30 local business operators and community members dropping by.

Guests enjoyed the StarFM live broadcast, plenty of giveaways, a tasty BBQ brekkie courtesy of Keith, and perfectly brewed coffee from McMoon Coffee Caravan. It was a fantastic opportunity to catch up with familiar faces, make new connections, and share ideas about business opportunities and challenges in the Whitsundays.

Above all, Chamber said it was a great opportunity for people to network without the formalities.

“What we aimed to do, was to have a bit of a focal point around an informal drop in for business owners, tradies and the general public to learn more about chamber, network, and get rid of all of that fussy formality that sometimes people don't enjoy about business education,” said Chamber.

“A lot of people were asking about our advocacy efforts, particularly into all levels of government, Council and state government in particular.

“Some of the things that were of interest to people were, how do I scale up my business, because we had representatives there from trade investment Queensland.

“People were thinking about, where are the export opportunities, and who's actually doing a lot of international trade? Even the little micro businesses that are based in the Whitsundays, what are they actually doing?

“Others were a little bit curious about what's going on with the cruise ship market, as well as some new faces looking at features and benefits becoming a chamber member.”

These casual, open-door networking mornings are about more than just coffee and conversation — they’re about building stronger relationships across the local business community.

The Chamber looks forward to bringing Pop Up Chamber events back in 2026, with more chances to connect, collaborate, and celebrate the great businesses that make the Whitsunday region thrive.

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Cait Fleming, Fiona Good, Jo Ryan, and Trish Jandt. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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A Fresh Take on a Local Tradition

The Bowen Fishing Classic is back for another year, offering a modern twist on a beloved local tradition. With over 30 years of history, this year’s event is reimagined to bring a fresh and exciting experience for both locals and visitors.

Organiser Lukas Adam, who moved to Bowen four years ago, has worked hard to modernise this year's event. “All the traditional elements you know and love, but with a fresh, reimagined twist to give the fishing classic a modern edge,” says Lukas. He’s passionate about using his digital marketing skills to reinvigorate the event for the community. Lukas adds, “I made the Fishing Classic into an official not-for-profit organisation and have secured long-term council backing as an economic tourism-driving event, as opposed to just a community event it was in the past.”

A major update this year is the increased focus on digital engagement. With a brand-new website, online ticket sales, and live event feeds, it’s easier than ever for attendees to participate and stay updated.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy, said it was fantastic that the Fishing Classic was being held again this year. “This event is great for locals and visitors, and we are pleased to see it is being held again in 2025. If this event grows in future years, it is sure to provide an economic boost for the region and attract more visitors to Bowen,” she said.

The competition promises to be fierce, with a range of exciting prizes up for grabs. Lukas shares, “Some of the biggest prizes include the $30,000 boat… and all the champion angler prizes.”

While Lukas has introduced a modern touch to the event, he remains committed to preserving the simplicity and charm that have made it a local favourite for decades. By blending tradition, innovation, and strong community spirit, the Bowen Fishing Classic continues to be an unmissable highlight of the year.

For more details, visit the Bowen Fishing Classic website: https://bfc.fish/.

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Just after 7am on Monday 15th September, the BMA CQ Rescue Helicopter was called to a multi-vehicle crash near Bowen, outside a service station between Proserpine and Bowen.

With several people injured, the rescue helicopter landed on the Bruce Highway so the medical team could provide urgent treatment. Emergency services worked together at the scene to deliver the best possible care.

Two patients required specialist treatment in Townsville. The aircraft was quickly reconfigured to transport both, arriving at Townsville Hospital about 10.30am where specialists were waiting.

BMA CQ Rescue General Manager Lisa Martin said moments like this highlight the crew’s innovation: “When it became apparent that two patients needed critical care urgently, while the Doctor and Paramedic treated the patients, the crew got to work and reconfigured the helicopter to ensure both patients would get to hospital as quickly as possible. To ensure there was enough room for the patients needed, one crew member opted to stay behind.”

Rescue Crew Officer Ben Grenier, who remained at the scene, said, “I didn’t think twice. They needed care. Of course, I opted out. I wish them all a speedy recovery.”

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The Collinsville community is in mourning following a tragic car crash near Springlands on Wednesday, 10th September, which claimed the lives of a beloved husband and wife.

Emergency services responded to a two-vehicle collision on Peter Delemothe Road, located between Strathalbyn and Strathmore Roads, around 12.30pm. Investigations suggest that a silver Mazda 2, travelling west, collided head-on with a white Toyota Hilux coming in the opposite direction.

Sadly, 63-year-old Glenville Drinkwater and his wife, 61-year-old Lynette Drinkwater, both from Collinsville, were pronounced dead at the scene. The male driver of the Mazda and his passenger, who were known and loved in the small North Queensland town, have left families, friends, and the entire community devastated by their sudden loss.

The driver of the Toyota Hilux was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Authorities are appealing for anyone with dashcam footage or additional information regarding the crash to come forward.

The Queensland Police Service reminds motorists that road safety is everyone’s responsibility. Serious crashes can often be avoided by steering clear of the “Fatal Five” risky driving behaviours: speeding, drink or drug driving, failure to wear seatbelts, fatigue, and distraction. For more information on road safety, visit qld.gov.au/police/fatal-five-staying-safe-roads.

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The Collinsville couple sadly lost their life in the crash

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Stronger Homes Grant

Earlier this year, many parts of North and Far North Queensland were hit hard by flooding. While the Whitsundays was fortunate not to experience widespread damage, it was still a challenging time for our region.

Families here watched the impacts unfold across the north, some of our residents were directly affected, and the uncertainty around weather events weighed heavily on our community.

That is why I welcome the Queensland Government’s recent announcement of the Stronger Homes Grant. This new program, jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments through the Commonwealth State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, is about giving homeowners practical support to prepare for the future.

The Stronger Homes Grant offers up to $10,000 for eligible homeowners to make their properties more flood resilient. It is not just about repairing what was damaged, it is about making smart improvements so that when the next flood comes, the impact is reduced. Examples include raising electrical switchboards, moving hot water systems or air conditioning units above flood levels, separating electrical circuits between floors, or replacing wall linings and floor coverings with materials that are easier to clean and dry after water inundation.

This program is open to both insured and uninsured homeowners, and funds are paid directly to licensed contractors or insurers once the works are complete. That means homeowners can focus on the improvements without worrying about how to manage the payments.

Applications are open now and will close on 31 December 2025, unless funds are fully allocated before that date. To apply, residents need to show proof of ownership, evidence that their home was inundated in the January and February floods, and a quote from a licensed contractor for the proposed works. Full details, including guidance for homeowners and contractors, are available at www.qld.gov.au/strongerhomesgrant.

As Mayor, I know how important it is for our community to be ready for whatever nature throws at us. Every step we take to strengthen our homes makes the whole Whitsunday region more resilient. I encourage anyone who is eligible to consider applying for this grant, and to share the information with friends, family and neighbours so no one misses out.

This is not just about repairing damage, it is about reducing the impact of the next event, so it is not as hard on our families or our community. By building resilience now, we give ourselves the best chance to recover more quickly and keep the Whitsundays moving forward together.

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This week marks the final chapter for the community newspaper Whitsunday News, which has been part of the region since its inception in 2020. After shifting to an online-only format in 2024, the publication has now announced it will officially close its doors.

Editor and founder Deborah Friend has been the driving force behind Whitsunday News since day one. In a touching gesture, Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm recently surprised Ms Friend with a gift basket and a certificate of appreciation.

“I was very touched and honoured to be recognised by our local MP Amanda Camm for my contribution to local media and the Whitsunday community during the five years of the Whitsunday News’ existence,” said Ms Friend.

Praised for her passionate advocacy for the Whitsundays, Ms Camm said that Whitsunday News captured the heart of our community.

"As she steps back from her formal role in local media, I offer my heartfelt thanks to Deborah Friend for her outstanding contribution to journalism in our region," said Ms Camm.

"Whether it was covering local council developments, community fundraisers or the stories of everyday people doing extraordinary things, Deborah brought both professionalism and empathy to every piece she produced. She has shown what it means to be a true community journalist; someone who listens, who cares, and who tells our stories with truth and heart.

"With sincere appreciation on behalf of our community, I thank you, Deborah, for your dedication, your voice, and your legacy. The Whitsundays are better for your work, and you will always be part of the story."

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Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm acknowledged Deb Friend's dedication to the community following the closure of Whitsunday News Newspaper after five years. Photo supplied

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Since rolling into town in June, Skyline Attractions’ Ferris Wheel has quickly become part of the Airlie Beach experience. Standing 35 metres tall, it’s given locals and visitors the chance to take in sweeping 360° views of The Whitsundays, from the sparkling Coral Sea to the bustle of the foreshore and some stunning sunsets. 

More than 40,000 people have already hopped on board, and the Wheel has even played host to a bit of romance, with 17 proposals happening high above the sea (that we know of!). With fully wheelchair-accessible gondolas, it’s been an experience everyone could enjoy.

The buzz it’s brought to the town has been fantastic, adding another drawcard to the foreshore and giving families, couples and friends a new way to enjoy Airlie. It’s been a great boost for local businesses too, with plenty of visitors making a day of it.

But all good things must come to an end - the Ferris Wheel wraps up in October. So if you haven’t yet had a spin, now’s the time. Whether it’s your first ride or you’re heading back for another look at that view, don’t miss your chance to see Airlie from the top.

Contributed with thanks to Zoe Lunardelli, Partnerships Coordinator, Tourism Whitsundays

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Check out the ferris wheel before it leaves. Photo credit: Mackay and Whitsunday Life

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The school holidays are about to get seriously fun at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre! From the laugh-out-loud kid’s circus adventure ‘The Farmy Farm’ to big-screen new release cinema including The Smurfs, Bad Guys 2, Kangaroo and Gabby’s Dollhouse,  there’s something for every mini movie buff or theatre lover!

Don’t miss out,  check out the What’s On page on the Proserpine Entertainment Centre website and grab your tickets today!

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It has been a term like no other for St Catherine’s Catholic College with students, staff, families, and alumni coming together to mark a century of Catholic education in the region.

The College’s Centenary celebrations were the highlight of the term, drawing hundreds of people back to the school grounds to reminisce, reconnect, and celebrate the community that has flourished over the past 100 years. From moving liturgies to joyful reunions, the celebrations captured the proud history of the College while looking confidently toward the future.

Principal Katherine Nelson said the milestone created memories that would last a lifetime.

“Reaching 100 years is a remarkable achievement for our College and our community,” she said.

“It was inspiring to see so many generations come together to share stories, honour our traditions, and celebrate all that makes St Catherine’s so special. We are incredibly proud of where we’ve come from and very excited for what lies ahead. ”

Alongside the centenary, students and staff also enjoyed a vibrant and busy term filled with opportunities for learning, leadership, and fun.

● Blak Excellence
● Buddies Program
● Prep Adventures
● R U OK? Day
● Farmers Market

Ms Nelson also said the variety of events reflected the holistic education on offer at St Catherine’s Catholic College.

“From creating culture and achievement to supporting wellbeing and encouraging enterprise and creativity – this term has been a shining example of what it means to be part of St Catherine’s,” she said.

“We are proud of our students’ achievements, both big and small, and grateful to our staff, families, and community who make these experiences possible.”

As the College looks forward to the remainder of the year, the memories of this milestone term will remain a special part of its story for years to come.

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St Catherine's Catholic College celebrated Blak Excellence this term. Photo supplied

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A vibrant showcase of dance, music and storytelling lit up the stage at Bowen State High School’s inaugural Multicultural Evening, where students, teachers and community members came together to celebrate cultural heritage and unity.

Year 10 student Seinimilli Mau was credited as the driving force behind the evening, with her passion and leadership shining through every detail of the program.

Guest compere Joe Mau, a Year 12 student from Burdekin Christian College, kept the evening flowing with a mix of humour, soulful singing and a strong reminder of the importance of recognising and preserving culture.

Local primary school students and seasonal workers attended and students proudly showcased their cultural heritage through captivating dance, movement and song performances.

The evening's theme took the audience on a symbolic sea voyage, it opened with a heartfelt Acknowledgement of Country, led by staff member Greg Power alongside students, before Mary Ellen and Kenzie delivered a moving performance honouring the Torres Strait Islands.

From there, the journey continued to the Cook Islands, Fiji, Vanuatu, Samoa and Tonga, as students presented a series of captivating dances that highlighted the beauty and traditions of their homelands. Teachers were also invited on stage, dancing alongside their students in a moment that captured the event’s spirit of togetherness.

The night was hailed as a resounding success, not only for the talent on display but also for the powerful message of pride, identity and unity. Principal Robert Harris expressed his gratitude to all students, families and community members who helped make the celebration possible.

“Their collective efforts have created a lasting impact, inspiring me to continue celebrating our diversity and unity," he added.

“Students and staff are also saying how great the event was, they have been saying it was great to be able to build a connection.

“The two themes of embracing opportunities and strengthening relationships, they are the two hashtags I keep going on about, they build school culture.”

With the success of the inaugural event, excitement is already building for 2026, when the community will again gather to honour and celebrate the school’s rich cultural diversity.

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Two of the early pioneers in tourism in the Whitsunday region.

It could be said that Leen and Bill Wallace from Coral Art on Dent Island fitted easily into the category of alternate life-stylers; individuals who had chosen a lifestyle that was perceived to be alternative and/or individuals who had chosen to drop out of society and live on islands or the coastal fringes of Queensland.

From 1955 – 1961, they were caretakers of the lease owned by Jack O’Hara who, after his death, left it to his family. The house in which Jack and his wife, Margaret, had lived on the island after their retirement from their mainland farm was built in 1939 from timber from the first Hewitt Building in Proserpine’s Main Street. (Mrs O’Hara then rebuilt a new single storey building on that spot. This is where Home Brewitt is now located). Sons, Roy and Ray, took over the house on Dent after their parents died. Over the years, this house was used by various caretakers.

In the early 1950s, Ray O’Hara and his young wife, Margaret, befriended Leen and Bill Wallace who, at the time, were living at Hayman Island and making coral gardens to sell around the islands. Bill, an ex-US Navy flight engineer, was the collector and the coral, shells and other natural products that he brought back from his diving were decorated by the artistic Leen, a former Sydney showgirl. They had met when Leen was visiting her sister in the Whitsundays and Bill skippered their boat.

After their marriage in Cairns in 1950, they were attracted to the area by its sheltered, white beaches surrounded by crystal clear waters stocked with fish and corals. Ray offered them the use of the house on Dent with the agreement that they would maintain its order. The Wallaces gladly accepted and shortly after, Ray took up a job in Papua New Guinea.

In 1961, the Wallaces applied for and obtained a lease of 1.01 hectares over the area around the house and fronting onto the beach. They purchased the house from the O’Haras and began setting up their Coral Art establishment carving out a niche market for themselves selling painted coral arrangements. Leen and Bill shipped their painted coral around the world and this enterprise was used to promote the Great Barrier Reef through the Queensland Tourist Bureau. Eventually, they opened up their own Polynesian-style art studio.

Leen and Bill were the makers of the Coral Crown that was presented each year to the Coral Queen from the Great Barrier Reef Coral Festival which was first held in 1958. Today, this crown is on display at the Proserpine Historical Museum after having been donated by Thora Nicolson, formerly of Lindeman Island, one of the Coral Queens.

As the area opened up to cruising yachtsman in the 1960s, passing sailors, such as John Gunn, documented them in his 1966 book “Barrier Reef by Trimaran”.

“A married couple live in an idyllic setting on a cleared area of land behind the beach on this northern tip. With tremendous enterprise they have pioneered a business for themselves. The husband dives for coral pieces, and the wife applies delicate shades of colour to them, to make them look like the living corals … One may not be enthralled by this kind of tourist art, but it is popular. And the life that the two have carved out for themselves on their own island is one that many of us would love to have …”

Leen Wallace passed away at her tropical paradise home on Dent Island October 20 1988 after living a life which she referred to as a lifelong honeymoon.

Story courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum and information also sourced from “Island Artists” by Ewen McPhee (“Qld Museum and Community Collections” newsletter May 13 2020) and Ray Blackwood’s “The Whitsundays: An Historical History”. Photos sourced from National Archives.

POSTSCRIPT: If any of our readers have any knowledge of what happened to Bill after Leen’s death, the PHMS would be grateful to receive this information.

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Hi Everyone,

I had a fantastic weekend diving, which sparked my curiosity about fish identification, so I started looking for resources to learn more!

I also thought this would also be a great opportunity to share with readers, so you can better recognise the incredible fish species right here in our backyard. Start by exploring the Whitsunday Conservation Council’s excellent guide on the Great Barrier Reef’s protected species, then read on for tips on how you can begin identifying them yourself.

Happy reading!
Ruth

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Home to Many Protected Species

The Great Barrier Reef is home to a stunning array of animals, from microscopic plankton to whales weighing more than 100 tonnes. If you are counting, you will find 1625 species of fish, more than a thousand species of hard and soft corals, 3000 plus species of molluscs (shells) and a mere 630 species of echinoderm (starfish, sea urchins). And the list goes on.

These are well known facts. But what you may not know is that the Reef is home to a very large number of Protected Species. These species are of "conservation concern" due to threats such as climate change impacts, overharvesting and fishing, pollution, and habitat loss. The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority has designated these species as "no-take" species, meaning they cannot be taken from the waters.

For a protected species, the Reef is not only their home, it is their refuge.

Now, you must be wondering, what animals are listed as Protected Species? Here is the surprisingly, long list.

Corals: all corals are protected (some permitted exceptions)

Molluscs (Shells): helmet shells, triton shells, giant clam

Fish: Seahorses, pipefish, sea dragons, potato cod, Queensland grouper, cods and groupers (Epinephelus) >100cm, barramundi cod, Māori wrasse, freshwater sawfish, whale shark, grey nurse shark, great white shark, manta ray

Reptiles: sea snakes, crocodiles, flatback turtle, green turtle, hawksbill turtle, leatherback turtle, loggerhead turtle, olive ridley turtle

Birds: all birds are protected species

Seals: Southern fur seal

Dugong: the one and only

Cetaceans: whales and dolphins

We all have a responsibility to ensure the well-being of the Protected Species, particularly when visiting the Reef. The simple and most effective rule is to “take only pictures and leave only bubbles”.

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The Great Barrier Reef is home to more than 1,500 species of fish, making it one of the most diverse marine ecosystems on the planet. While it may seem overwhelming, there are a few simple ways to start identifying the fish you spot while snorkelling or diving.

Look at size and shape. Small, slender fish darting in and out of corals are often damselfish or gobies, while larger, bulky species like groupers and cod move more slowly and are easier to approach. Long, beak-like mouths suggest species such as butterflyfish, while the parrotfish’s strong, beak-shaped jaw is used to crunch coral.

Notice colour and patterns. Bright stripes and spots often belong to angelfish, butterflyfish or wrasse. The famous clownfish (or “Nemo”) is instantly recognisable with its orange body and white stripes, usually found among the waving tentacles of an anemone. Blue tang surgeonfish, made famous as “Dory,” are another colourful favourite.

Observe behaviour and habitat. Some species have distinctive habits that make them easy to identify. Damselfish often hover near coral heads, while schools of surgeonfish graze in open areas. Wrasse are known for their thick lips and can often be seen following divers curiously.

For many visitors, spotting members of the reef’s “Great Eight," clownfish, turtles, manta rays, Maori wrasse, sharks, giant clams, potato cod and whales – is the ultimate goal. With a little practice, you’ll soon learn to recognise the reef’s most fascinating fish and their unique characteristics.

You can also head to the queensland goverment website for a full list of fish species: www.qld.gov.au/recreation/activities/boating-fishing/rec-fishing/fish-species-guide/fish-species-id

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