Local Artist Shines at the Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibition

Creative Connections Whitsundays is proud to celebrate member Brigitte Peel, whose artwork Unity Comes from the Moon & the Sea captivated audiences at the recent Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibition. The piece won both the Bendigo Community Bank People’s Choice Award and the Reef Theme Award, recognition Brigitte says is deeply meaningful.

"I felt privileged that the community voted for my artwork," Brigitte shared. "It was an honour that the judge also awarded it the theme award. Being acknowledged and recognised for the work you’ve produced really helps to build confidence and create momentum as an artist."

The awards have already sparked new opportunities, including more interest in her classes, commissions and collaborations.

A lifelong creative, Brigitte studied art at school and honed her eye for composition through underwater photography with Cruise Whitsundays. After years of balancing family life with collaborative workshops and commissions, she launched Sunbird Studios & Co in 2023. She now runs regular creative sessions for adults and children, working across mediums from charcoal and pastel to acrylic and watercolour.

Beyond painting, Brigitte has contributed to the Great Barrier Reef Festival’s Immerse installation, worked in stop-motion animation and screen printing, and created live event paintings and portraits. She is currently illustrating children’s books and has designed oracle tea cards.

Despite the challenges of single motherhood and running a studio, Brigitte continues to achieve success, including as a finalist in the Whitsunday Arts Festival and Doyles Art Award. Her recent recognition reflects her passion, perseverance and contribution to the Whitsundays’ creative community.

Brigitte Peel accepting peoples choice award. Photo supplied.
Brigitte Peel and Margie Murphy opening night. Photo supplied.

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Daisy is an 18-month-old Kelpie-cross with a gentle soul and a heart full of hope. Life hasn’t been easy for her, and she can be shy when meeting new people, but with patience and kindness, Daisy blossoms into a loving and loyal companion.

She is already desexed and vaccinated, and at a medium size, she’s a great fit for most homes—playful enough for outdoor adventures but easy to manage day to day. Daisy is particularly sensitive to loud noises and busy environments, so she’s looking for a calm, quiet home where she can feel safe and supported.

Despite her timid nature, Daisy is affectionate and eager to bond once she feels secure. She would thrive in a peaceful, loving household with owners who can give her the time and space to come out of her shell and build confidence.

Daisy is currently in care and ready to find her forever home. If you think you can offer her the safety and love she deserves, please get in touch.

Every dog deserves a second chance. Help us give Daisy hers—please share her story and help her find the family she’s been waiting for.

Message Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue on Facebook with your name and contact number to learn more or arrange a meet-and-greet.

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R U OK? Day was marked across the Whitsundays on Thursday with two community events encouraging meaningful conversations and mental health awareness.

In Cannonvale, the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre and Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN) hosted a morning tea at 9am at Cannonvale Beach, followed by a community walk to Shingley Beach — creating space for connection between friends, families and even strangers.

Meanwhile, the Bowen Community Centre brought locals together with its own R U OK? Day event, offering support, connection and a strong sense of community.

Ask R U OK? Everyday

R U OK? Day is a day dedicated to asking your close friends, family, and even strangers “Are you okay?”, but it’s a conversation that should be asked more regularly.

Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN) President Matt Stokes said he loves the R U OK? Campaign and it’s a reminder that everybody can help when it comes to mental health.

“t's a reminder that checking on everyone is everyone's job," he expressed.

“It's not just for a mental health capacity. It's a friend to friend, family to family, and just those around you. Look for little, subtle changes in their behaviours and check, are you okay?

“Ask the question and then listen and if they need help, get them some help. There's plenty of it out there. It's just connecting the dots.”

Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP said the simple words can make a huge difference in someone’s life.

“It is the most simplest of interventions that can change the course of someone's life for the better,” she said.

“I think at the heart of it, everyone wants to know that there is someone that cares, and R U OK? is an opportunity for us all to express care.

“Whether it's a stranger, a friend, one of our own children, checking in is so important and it's great we highlight this on one particular day, but we should be doing it every day wherever we can.”

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Have you asked R U OK? today? Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm is joined by members of Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network and Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Hi Everyone,

Mental health is something that’s always been close to my heart, ever since I watched my best mate from school go through depression after a traumatic divorce.

I remember being on the phone with him, trying so hard to help. I was throwing out suggestions — fresh air, long walks, joining a club, thinking positive. I thought depression needed action. Solutions. A mindset shift.

And while those things can help, I was totally thrown when he got short with me. Frustrated. Distant.

That night, he sent me an article that changed everything.

It explained that even though I meant well, I was coming at it the wrong way. Depression isn’t a problem you can fix. It’s not something someone can just shake off or “snap out of.” Often, it sits over someone like a thick fog — heavy and unmoving, no matter how badly they want it gone.

And sometimes, that fog just has to run its course.

That’s exactly what happened with my friend. After eleven long months, it finally began to lift. Later, he told me he was glad it didn’t go on any longer — because he’d made the quiet decision to end his life if it had. He’d reached that point. And no one knew.

Thankfully, the fog shifted — and he came through the other side.

As we mark R U OK? Day this week, I just wanted to share this reminder: sometimes it’s not about the advice or the “fix.” What helped my friend most, he said, was knowing someone was there. That someone cared enough to check in. Even when I didn’t have the right words.

Rach

Did You Know?
When people who’ve attempted suicide are asked 24 hours later if they really wanted to die, they almost always say no. They just wanted the pain to stop. Sometimes just being there is all it takes to make the difference.

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The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry is stepping into a new role as manager of the Airlie Beach Cruise Ship Markets, ensuring this much-loved event continues to thrive for stallholders, local businesses, community groups, and visiting passengers.

Commencing this month, the Chamber will oversee market operations with a clear commitment: to continue delivering a market that feels welcoming to cruise ship guests while being supportive of local stallholders.

Chamber President Allan Milostic said the markets are a vital opportunity to showcase the Whitsundays.

“Cruise ship visitors are often getting their very first taste of Airlie Beach and our region through these markets,” Allan said.

“We see enormous potential to strengthen that experience while supporting micro and small businesses and community groups.”

After 22 years of dedicated service, the Whitsunday Lions Club handed the reins of the Cruise Ship Markets to the Chamber. Their efforts have made the markets a much-loved attraction for both visitors and locals.

“Operating a market is a challenging job. Whitsunday Lions are confident that the new operators will meet those challenges and continue the success of this famous market,” said Lions Club representative Helen Toy.

“Our Lions Club will now be concentrating our efforts on the Lions Community Market held every Saturday on the foreshore.”

The Chamber acknowledges and thanks the Lions Club for their stewardship and contribution over more than two decades, which has built a strong foundation for the future.

In this next chapter, the Chamber is focused on working closely with current stallholders to provide additional services and support to help boost their businesses. At the same time, plans are underway to broaden the market’s appeal by introducing new elements in 2026.

To guide this evolution, the Chamber will soon survey stallholders to gather their feedback and ideas. Their insights will be central in shaping what comes next.

“Stallholders are the heart of these markets, and we want to make sure their voices guide how we evolve,” Allan said.

“Our goal is to keep what works well, while exploring new opportunities that will strengthen the experience for visitors and locals alike.”

The Chamber is also pleased to welcome Margie Murphy of Airlie Events and the Great Barrier Reef Festival to manage the markets on the ground over the coming months. Her experience and local knowledge will help ensure a smooth transition.

Chamber say that a key element of this new era will be reinvesting market revenue back into the Whitsundays community.

From 2026, eligible not-for-profits and community events will be able to apply for sponsorship funds generated by the market.

This approach will ensure the markets not only benefit stallholders and visitors, but also support local clubs, charities, and festivals that contribute to the social and cultural fabric of the Whitsundays.

To maintain transparency, the Chamber will publish annual reports outlining how funds are distributed.

“Our approach is about sustainability, accountability, and ensuring the markets remain a valued asset for the whole community,” Allan said.

The Chamber looks forward to working with Whitsunday Regional Council, stallholders, and community organisations to ensure the Cruise Ship Markets continue to grow as a vibrant, welcoming, and beneficial experience for all.

Stallholder enquiries can be made to: markets@whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au

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Cait Fleming, Margie Murphy, Helen Toy, Allan Milostic, and Julia Evans at the Cruise Ship Markets. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Justin Stokes believes rough weather may have saved his life on August 3. The 70-year-old Bowen retiree was about 50km offshore in a 26-foot boat with his son and a mate when he began feeling light-headed and unwell.

“We were already headed back to shore because of the weather and I wasn’t feeling great when the boat began taking on water; the bilge pump couldn’t keep up as the waves were coming over the front,” Justin said.

“My son and his mate had to start bailing. It was all a bit stressful.”

The trio urgently radioed Volunteer Marine Rescue (VMR), advising them of Justin’s history of heart problems. He had undergone a stent procedure in 2023 and still had two blockages. Feeling worse, he was transferred to the rescue vessel and taken back to shore.

Justin declined ambulance transport and was met at the boat ramp by his wife Pamela, who drove him straight to Bowen Hospital.

“I didn’t feel well, but I didn’t think it was going to be a bad problem or issue,” Justin said.

“At the hospital I told them I was starting to get worse chest pain so I was taken in to ED and had just sat on the bed - that’s the last thing I remember before I passed out.”

An after hours admin officer and graduate nurse triaged Justin quickly and moved him to the resuscitation bay. Shortly after, he collapsed.

Bowen clinical nurse educator Tracey Petersen said the ED team acted immediately.

“Within a minute, Justin’s airway was secured, we had commenced CPR and the senior medical officer was preparing to deliver a shock,” she said.

“Within one minute of that first shock, he was back and talking to staff.”

An ECG confirmed Justin had suffered a major heart attack. He was flown to Mackay Base Hospital and spent four days in the Cardiac Care Unit.

“I couldn’t wish for better treatment – they did a fantastic job to bring me back because for a few minutes there I wasn’t of this world,” Justin said.

His wife Pamela added “They really deserve every praise – Justin’s heart is only beating today because of them.”

Tracey said the team’s swift response was the difference between life and death.

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Justin and Pamela Stokes. Photo supplied

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Whether they’re avoiding a pod of whales, traversing a shallow reef, or giving a racing yacht wide berth, the crew of VMR Whitsunday are well practiced at changing course to ensure they reach their destination swiftly and safely. Today, the experienced volunteer crew set a new course, joining Marine Rescue Queensland as the service’s eighteenth unit.

MRQ Whitsunday Unit Commander Shane Newell said that the unit had taken their transition very much in their stride and were looking forward to a new chapter in their rich history as part of MRQ.

“From our humble beginnings in the early 1960s with just six locals who were concerned for the safety of boaties on the water, we’ve grown into a highly experienced unit who manage hundreds of activations in all weathers every year,” Mr Newell said.

“Our crew work hard to coordinate activities and support one another to ensure jobs run smoothly and we’re proud to be continuing that service under the banner of MRQ.”

The unit provides a vital service in the Whitsundays, a mecca for boating enthusiasts wanting to enjoy sailing and water sports in the clear waters around the region’s 74 islands.

“Our territory covers 13,000 square kilometres within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and in busy periods there can be three to four thousand boaties on the water at any one time. From medivacs, to towing broken down vessels and search and rescue activities, we’re always ready to answer a call for assistance. But we’re also lucky to be providing our services in one of the best boating areas in Australia and we’re often rewarded with spectacular sunrises and sunsets, or a show from a passing pod of whales,” he said.

MRQ Chief Officer Tony Wulff welcomed MRQ Whitsunday into the service and called on local residents to consider volunteering their time to help the unit deliver their vital service.

“As a sailor myself, I know the attraction of boating in the Whitsundays region. But no matter how experienced you are, it’s good to know that there will be someone there to take the call if you run into trouble. The crew at MRQ Whitsundays are a committed and experienced team and we’d love to see their numbers grow. Volunteering is a great way to develop your marine skills and learn from seasoned professionals. MRQ provides all the uniform, kit and training you need to be able to make a difference and support your local on-water community. If you’d like to hear some firsthand accounts of day-to-day rescue work, visit the MRQ Whitsunday Facebook page to read about their activations – the crew are natural storytellers and paint a great picture of life as a volunteer.”

Interested volunteers can lodge their interest via the MRQ website or email contactus@mrq.qld.gov.au

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The Whitsunday community has once again shown its generosity, with this year’s Mayor’s Charity Ball raising an impressive $90,000 for local organisations.

At a cheque handover ceremony, Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins thanked sponsors, supporters, and attendees for helping make the annual event such a success.

Funds from the evening went to BMA CQ Rescue, the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, and the Bowen Community Centre, three organisations that play vital roles in providing emergency services, support, and connection across the region.

Mayor Ry Collins expressed gratitude to all sponsors, highlighting Platinum sponsors Lowcock Builders and Airlie Beach Hotel, along with a strong list of Gold and Silver sponsors.

“Without their support, we wouldn't have been able to make this event possible,” said Mayor Collins.

“Thank you sincerely for your generous support to some fantastic causes.

“Your generosity in our community is making a real impact, and these funds are supporting critical emergency services and centering on the vital role in our community by strengthening, offering connection, support and hope to those that need it most.”

Guests on the night were treated to entertainment from Seagrass Theatre, whose performance drew high praise. “Many would agree with me, were fantastic on the night of the Mayors Ball” said Mayor Collins.

“It’s great to have you all here, and thank you so much for your support for this year's event. We couldn't have done it without you.”

The Mayor also confirmed that planning is already underway for the next Mayor’s Charity Ball, with the date locked in for Saturday 25 July 2026, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre.

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Tegan Philpott from BMA CQ Rescue, Executive Officer of Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre Rebecca Woods, Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins, and Councillor Michelle Wright
Jen and Jack from Platinum Sponsor Lowcock Builders

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Recently we have seen a small amount of attempted stealing offences where people have walked into people’s property, tried car doors, doors on houses and walked through veranda areas. No significant property has been stolen but it raises an important topic. Today, more than ever, the importance of knowing your neighbours often gets overlooked. However, creating strong connections with those who live around us fosters a sense of belonging, strengthens community ties, and crucially, helps keep everyone safe.

A connected community is an engaged community—a place where people look out for one another, notice when something feels different and offer support when it’s needed most. Whether it’s sharing a morning wave across the fence, making fun of the footy team they support, having a friendly conversation in the street, or exchanging contact details for emergencies, the smallest actions can make the biggest difference.

When we know our neighbours well, we can recognise changes that may indicate someone needs help. For example, has a usually active neighbour suddenly disappeared from view? Is there unfamiliar activity at a home where things are normally quiet? You might see lights around the yard at night. These small observations can help prevent more serious incidents or provide assistance to someone in urgent need or stop an opportunistic crime.

Beyond safety, fostering neighbourly relationships improves the well-being of everyone in the area. Studies show that connected communities are happier and healthier. Knowing our neighbours lessens loneliness, reduces stress, and increases confidence to reach out in times of need.

It isn’t just about adults either; connected communities are a safer environment for children to play and grow. Streets become friendlier, and a network of tens or hundreds of watchful eyes provides an added layer of care.

So how do we nurture this culture of connection? Start with simple gestures—a smile, a hello, or even organising a casual BBQ or street party to get everyone talking. Its as simple of a g’day across a fence.

Contributed with thanks to Senior Sergeant Officer in Charge of Whitsunday Police Station Anthony Moynihan

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From my very first day as Mayor, my approach has been that regional Councils are strongest when we work together across all levels of government, alongside industry, and most importantly, with our community. Last week in Canberra, that spirit of partnership was on full display.

Over three days, the Greater Whitsunday Council of Mayors, Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson, Isaac Mayor Kelly Vea Vea and I, joined with our economic and industry partners to speak with a united voice for our region.

Together, we made sure the Whitsundays was front and centre on the national agenda. In 17 meetings with Ministers, Senators, MPs, advisors and the Speaker of the House, we shared the priorities that matter most to our communities.

We spoke about the need for better roads, reliable water and energy, stronger digital connectivity, and more affordable housing. We raised the issue of insurance costs, which continue to hurt families and businesses. And we pushed for more opportunities in skills and education to support our young people into local jobs.

We didn’t just talk about today’s challenges but also highlighted the opportunities of tomorrow. Industries like bio-manufacturing in agriculture, aviation connectivity, and aerospace will help diversify our economy and create the jobs of the future. And of course, we continue to fight for funding for the Bruce Highway, which is vital to the safety and prosperity of our whole region.

What makes this so important is that it shows the power of collaboration. When we speak together, with one voice, we are harder to ignore. That’s how we get results for our community.

And make no mistake, the future of the Whitsundays is shining bright. Being named the home of Olympic sailing in 2032 gives us a global stage and a once in a generation chance to leave a legacy.

With transformational projects like the Whitsunday Skyway now under way, we are seeing the kind of investment that will reshape our region for decades to come. These are not just projects and plans. They are the building blocks of a stronger and more confident Whitsundays.

They will shape the lives of our children and grandchildren, and showcase to the world the place we are so lucky to call home. From the waterfront at Airlie Beach to the heart of Proserpine, from the proud community of Bowen to the resilience of Collinsville, every town has a role to play in this story.

By working together, we can make sure the Whitsundays does not just grow, it flourishes. The best chapters of our story are still to come, and we will write them side by side as a community.

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Whitsunday residents and visitors are being urged to check their Saturday Gold Lotto tickets, with a mystery player yet to claim a $2.5 million prize from the weekend’s draw.

The unregistered ticket was purchased at Hickmott’s Supa News in Bowen for Saturday Gold Lotto draw 4605 on 6 September 2025. The winning entry was one of eight division one winners nationally, each scoring $2.5 million.

So far this year, the Mackay and Whitsundays region has celebrated six major lottery wins, worth more than $19 million in total.

Hickmott’s Supa News manager Angela Stevens said the team was thrilled to have sold another winning ticket.

“It’s been a few years since our last big win – we’re so excited! With the Don River Dash and Father’s Day visitors in town, it could be anyone,” she said.

“Our most recent major wins were a $740,000 Saturday Lotto ticket in 2020 and a $2 million win in 2019.

“On behalf of the entire team here at Hickmott’s Supa News, we wish our mystery winner all the very best and can’t wait for you to check your ticket and claim the prize!”

Anyone who purchased a ticket from Hickmott’s Supa News is urged to check it and contact The Lott on 131 868 to claim their prize.

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Monday 8 September 2025: The Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC) has today unveiled its new Strategic Plan 2025–2028 and Advocacy Plan 2025–26, charting a bold path to strengthen Queensland’s visitor economy in the lead-up to Brisbane 2032 and beyond. The plans are especially significant for regions such as the Whitsundays, which rely heavily on tourism and are preparing for increased visitor numbers in the coming years.

QTIC CEO Natassia Wheeler said the plans demonstrate QTIC’s role as the trusted voice of the state’s visitor economy, aligning directly with the government’s Destination45 long-term vision for the sector.

“Our vision is to be the trusted voice that champions Queensland as the undisputed leader in the global visitor economy by 2045. These plans show exactly how we will achieve that – by uniting industry voices, elevating our members, driving innovation, and accelerating outcomes,” Wheeler said.

“Collaboration is at the heart of these plans. QTIC recognises the critical role of Tourism and Events Queensland, regional and local tourism organisations, all levels of government and industry. By working together in a proactive, outcomes-driven way, we can ensure Queensland’s visitor economy thrives to 2032 and beyond,” she added.

The Strategic Plan 2025–2028 is structured around four pillars – Powerful Advocacy, Member-Led Engagement, Empowering Industry Capability, and Organisational Excellence – designed to ensure QTIC delivers clear value to members, builds industry capability and workforce, and remains future-ready.

The Advocacy Plan 2025–26 operationalises this strategy through five clear priorities: securing sustainable visitor economy funding; tackling rising costs for business; boosting investment in tourism infrastructure; growing a skilled and resilient workforce; and enabling growth in ecotourism and sustainable practices.

In relation to tackling rising costs for businesses, insurance reform is identified in the strategy as an issue QTIC aims to address, becoming top of mind as the state prepares for upcoming weather events over summer. Wheeler said QTIC has heard from operators whose public liability premiums have surged from $2,000 to $75,000, or from $16,000 to $500,000 – in some cases with excesses as high as $1 million. Some businesses have resorted to self-insuring, while others have been unable to secure coverage at all.

“Insurance is no longer just a cost of doing business – it has become a barrier to viability for some operators,” Wheeler said. “Without action, the sustainability of some of Queensland’s most recognisable visitor experiences is at risk. That’s why this issue sits within our advocacy priorities.”

The plans also highlight the urgent need for tourism infrastructure investment, which is particularly relevant for popular regions such as the Whitsundays. South East Queensland currently has just 46,000 hotel rooms – less than half of Los Angeles (120,000) and Paris (133,000). Even with committed developments, capacity is expected to grow to only 51,000 rooms by 2030, leaving Queensland significantly short of what is needed to meet demand as Brisbane 2032 approaches. QTIC is advocating for streamlined planning, cutting red tape, and creating clear investment pathways without impediments.

“Queensland is attracting more visitors, more often, for longer stays – but our infrastructure is not keeping pace,” Wheeler said. “Hotel capacity, transport links, and tourism infrastructure must expand now to match our ambitions for 2032 and beyond.”

Both the QTIC Strategic Plan 2025–2028 and the QTIC Advocacy Plan 2025–26 can be read in full at www.qtic.com.au

Orange Sky Australia is bringing its life-changing laundry service to the Whitsundays, aiming to support locals who are doing it tough. The not-for-profit has secured a location and the necessary resources for the region, but the launch is dependent on securing enough local volunteers to join the team.

The need is clear. The Orange Sky service in Mackay, established in 2017, has struggled to keep up with demand due to critically low volunteer numbers. With rising living costs and growing social challenges, many in the community face practical difficulties when it comes to washing and drying their laundry. Orange Sky exists to bridge that gap, offering practical assistance while also providing connection and conversation to those who may feel isolated.

While the service is usually delivered via the iconic bright orange mobile vans, the Whitsundays will see a new approach with the launch of an Orange Sky Indoor Laundromat. By installing washing machines and dryers within a partner organisation in an area of need, the program provides a practical, accessible, and welcoming space for locals. The Whitsundays Coin Laundromat, at 42 Stewart Drive, Cannonvale, will become Orange Sky’s 51st service location across Australia, offering a unique, community-centred solution.

The indoor laundromat will operate every Monday and Thursday from 1 pm to 3 pm. Volunteers are asked to commit just two hours a fortnight, providing both practical assistance with laundry and the simple yet invaluable gift of human connection. “Our organisation seeks to positively connect communities through conversation and building relationships, so having consistent volunteers on shift is essential,” says Orange Sky.

The program is inclusive and welcoming to anyone who wants to contribute, with no prior qualifications required. Volunteers will become part of a team dedicated to creating a space where locals experiencing hardship can feel seen, supported, and connected. It is a model that combines practical help with emotional and social support, recognising that connection is as vital as clean clothes.

Orange Sky encourages locals interested in volunteering to register their interest by visiting orangesky.org/volunteer. The preliminary form allows the team to share more information and guide potential volunteers through the process. With a six-month commitment on a regular team, either weekly or fortnightly, volunteers will help ensure that the service can run smoothly and consistently.

In a world where the cost of living is rising and social isolation is increasingly common, Orange Sky’s new Whitsundays service offers more than clean clothes. It offers a space for conversation, connection, and community. The hope is that with enough volunteers, the Whitsundays will soon welcome this vital program, giving locals not just practical support but also a chance to feel part of something bigger.

What: Orange Sky Volunteering
When: Mondays and Thursdays 1-3pm, from September 2025
Where: 42 Stewart Dr, Cannonvale QLD 4802

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Orange Sky Needs Volunteers! Photo Source: https://orangesky.org.au/

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Tec-NQ House Year 10 boarder Brad is already getting his hands on the tools. He has secured assistant boiler maker work with a local business near home, not far from Clermont.

“This is my first year at Tec-NQ House,” said Brad. “I’m in Year 10, and so far I’m liking it.” The move to boarding has been made easier by new friendships. “I have made a few mates, so that’s good,” he commented.

Term breaks will be busy. When he is not on the job learning the basics of boiler making, Brad will be back on the station riding horses and motorbikes or heading out hunting with family. It is the best of both worlds, a mix of country life and career-building experience.

Head of Boarding, Luke Papworth, says Brad’s approach is exactly what Tec-NQ House is here to support. “Brad is only in Year 10, yet he is already building real industry experience,” Luke said. “That kind of initiative gives students a head start when it comes to apprenticeships and employment.”

The support continues when students return to Townsville. Brad plans to keep his fitness up at Planet Fitness with mates from Tec-NQ House. Luke says the routine of study, sport and social time helps boarders settle quickly. “First-year boarders do well when there is a clear rhythm to the week,” Luke added. “We set expectations around learning, wellbeing and behaviour, and the boys thrive with consistency.”

Food is also a highlight for many. When asked about his favourite part of boarding, Brad’s answer matched what so many boys say. “It’s the food,” he laughed. Luke agrees that good meals make a difference, “Our on-site chef prepares nutritious meals that the boys actually enjoy,” he said. “It keeps them fuelled for school, work placements and sport.”

As a boarder, Brad benefits from a supportive home base in Townsville. Tec-NQ House is a purpose-built boys-only boarding residence in Rosslea that provides accommodation for up to forty senior school students from regional and remote Queensland, giving them access to Tec-NQ’s trade-focused senior school program. The residence is designed to feel welcoming and homely, with 24/7 supervised care, air-conditioned double-occupancy rooms, modern communal areas, streaming services, computers, a secure outdoor recreation area with BBQ facilities, and a basketball court.

Staff-run after-hours sport and social activities, and regular excursions help boarders build strong friendships. Transport is provided to the Tec-NQ Douglas co-educational campus and to work placements when required. The setup removes barriers and lets students focus on learning and personal growth.

“Boarding gives young people independence with a safety net,” Luke said. “They learn to manage time, communicate well and be accountable. Those habits translate directly to the workplace.”

With practical experience near Clermont, a strong start to boarding life in Townsville, and a clear interest in boiler making, Brad is well on his way. He is learning the trade, building fitness, and finding his feet in a community that wants to see him succeed.

Keep it up, Brad. The spark you bring to your work today is forging a bright future.

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Sugar Growing Pioneer in the Cannon Valley District

Henry William Holmes was born 13th April 1873 in Stableford, Wiltshire England. His father, a village blacksmith, died in an accident when William was nine. When eleven, his mother remarried. Henry went to live on a farm where his Holmes’ uncles were tenants, then worked on the railways for several years.

Desirous to see the world, at age 18, he applied for assisted passage to Australia, sailing on the "Geelunga" arriving at Bowen in May 1892 with only five shillings in his pocket. Luckily, new migrants were given rations by the government until they found work.

Will Holmes’ first job was at "Breadalbane" Station, owned by Messrs. Waite Bros. He was a boundary rider for 20 months and was paid 10/- per week plus his keep. Will moved to Mackay for a short time, working on a sugar plantation before returning to Proserpine. In January 1894, he selected two blocks of land at Cannon Valley under the government homestead system, paying 2/6 per acre, and 10/- per acre for improvements. The block, beside Brandy Creek, was 160 acres of virgin bush. He had to fence it, build a hut, live on it and develop it - and complete payment within five years. Will named the land “Windermere”.

To pay for the land, Harry (as he had become known in the district) accepted a position for four years managing a farm for Mr. R. Carson of Bowen. He paid someone to do his fencing, and so gained the freehold of his property. In 1902, he returned to Cannon Valley to grow sugar cane, cutting his first crop in 1905.

Harry was married three times; sadly, losing his first two wives early on in life. He had six children; two from his first marriage and four from his second.

In 1925, Will had a severe accident whilst loading cane. His injuries left him with a permanent limp, and he used a walking stick for the rest of his life. He never fully recovered, though he still did a lot of the easier work, retaining his involvement in the farm up until the death of his third wife, Matilda, in 1957.

His son, Albert, by his first marriage, had been working full time on the farm for some nine years by then, and John, a son from his second marriage, joined him in 1928. After the successful application for a larger cane assignment, the farm ownership was divided three ways, making Albert and John equal partners with their father.

William (Harry) was very active in community affairs. In 1922, he donated ten acres for a school at Windermere and was Chairman of the Cannon Valley Hall committee. He was on the original hospital committee and the ambulance committee. In 1931, he served on the Canegrowers’ Executive and was on the local Cane Prices Board for ten years. He was a Shire Councillor for thirty years and a representative on the Bowen Harbour Board. He also became Grand Master of the Masonic Lodge.

A keen cricketer, he never missed a match on the Cannon Valley pitch next to his farm, sometimes umpiring. As he grew older, he indulged his love of reading and cultivated a good vegetable garden. He died in August 1963, aged 90 years, having gone to hospital only the previous day. A few years later, Holmes Street in Proserpine was named in his memory.

Postscript: The farm at Brandy Creek is still owned by the Holmes family. Henry William Holmes’ great grandson, Andrew Holmes, now works the land having taken over from his father, Keith, who was Albert’s son.

Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum and “Memories” written by Madge Holmes.

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Henry William Holmes. Photo supplied.

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