Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
OPINION PIECE from the office of Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox There is no question that immigration into Australia is out of control. The government’s numbers are too high, and standards are too low. A sustainable migration program must consider our capacity to provide housing, healthcare, infrastructure and the essential services everyone relies on, and Australians must come first. But Labor’s decision to target Working Holiday Makers Visa holders is not the answer. These people filling vital gaps in our workforce are not the cause of Australia’s housing crisis. In many cases, they are living in accommodation provided by the very businesses that employ them. The National Farmers’ Federation has made the point that Working Holiday Makers generally stay in hostels, caravan parks or purpose-built on-farm accommodation. Resorts usually have on-site staff quarters. They are not the source of Australia’s housing shortage. So why is Labor making it harder for them to come here, when these workers fill genuine jobs that regional Australia holds? Working Holiday Makers fill approximately one in seven farm jobs nationally and are particularly important during peak agricultural periods, which for Dawson, it is right now! Farmers rely on these workers to plant, pick, pack and harvest the produce that ends up on Australian supermarket shelves. Having run one of Australia’s largest tomato farms, at times Working Holiday Makers made up more than 50 per cent of my workforce. Without them, much of our crop simply would not have been picked in time and rotted in the paddock. Some may say, why not employ the Australians who don’t have a job and are on “the dole”? Can I say, this does not work. Most farmers will employ Aussies over travelling backpackers, but many either don’t want to do the work or don’t turn up after the first day. Who picks the fruit or veggies then? Farmers are already warning that visa delays are leaving them without workers. The NFF says approvals that once took days are now facing processing times of up to three months, and this time frame can be the difference between harvesting a crop or losing it. That should concern every Australian already feeling the pressure at the supermarket checkout. The same problem is playing out in tourism. Across Dawson, Working Holiday Makers are an important part of the workforce supporting tourism and hospitality, particularly in the Whitsundays. They help fill shifts, work in hotels and restaurants, support tour operators and keep businesses running through their busiest periods. They also contribute to the local economy. They spend money on food, fuel, attractions and tours, supporting the small businesses that depend on a strong visitor economy. That is why tourism and business leaders across North Queensland are raising the alarm. They understand what happens when a regional business cannot get enough staff: opening hours are reduced, and services are cut, creating a downward spiral. We do need to reduce migration to sustainable levels. We need stronger integrity measures, and we need to crack down on rorts. But responsible migration policy means understanding which parts of the system are creating pressure and which parts are helping Australia function. Working Holiday Makers are not the problem. They are part of the workforce solution for regional. Australia. People have had a gutful of watching their standard of living go backwards. Groceries, fuel, housing and everyday expenses are already putting enormous pressure on families. The last thing Australians need is another reckless policy that makes it harder to produce food, harder to run regional businesses and harder for tourism operators to find the workers they need.
Read the full storySomeone sold a house in Sydney last week for $9 million less than they bought it for four or five years ago. The sellers had bought the property in Sydney’s eastern suburbs for $29 million and sold it for $20 million in a sale forced by their bank. I imagine the sellers are a little disappointed by the government’s decisions on negative gearing and capital gains tax and feeling pretty hurt by the increased interest rates. Australia’s interest rates are on the rise and are now sitting at levels not seen since 2011. Increased cost of living is hurting people around the country and interest rates are playing into that. But the impact of interest rates is not felt evenly around the country. The far-higher property prices mean people in the major cities suffer much more than regional areas with the rates increase. That is certainly not to say people in Mackay are unaffected by the cost of living; it’s just that the impact of interest rates increase on a $400,000 mortgage is much less than the impact on a $1m mortgage. There are other Mackay-specific factors that are in play when discussing the current housing market. The big factor is the role of coal in our economy. Most of the coal extracted and exported from our region is coking coal, which is used to make steel. The price of coking coal is around $280 a tonne, which is about 50 per cent up. Good activity in the coal market translates to good news for the Mackay economy, as it is an economic engine that other cities and regions just don’t have. Good activity in Bowen Basin flows throughout the Mackay economy; Paget workshops, transport, suppliers and related businesses all benefit. But so do other, non-mining-related businesses as they benefit from the general confidence and spending that goes on. The strong mining activity also means mines need to keep their staff levels up and that means more people moving to Mackay. Of course, Mackay is much more than a coal mining town but if the coal sector is going well those other areas definitely benefit. It is a confidence boost for Mackay people looking to get into the housing market and those wanting to upgrade or downsize. It also means continuing strong demand from people wanting to rent a property and it will be interesting to see what sort of activity that creates from investors. Investors have walked away from the big-city markets because they can no longer use negative gearing on established properties that do not have a sufficient yield to be positively geared. Negative gearing has never been a big thing in Mackay because our prices are lower and rental returns continue to be strong so many investors have a positively geared property. Around the country everyone is nervous about the state of play and the probability of more interest rate rises. But strong coal prices and an economy that is performing well mean Mackay might just be presenting an opportunity for buyers and sellers that doesn’t exist in other parts. I remember when national confidence was flying high and Mackay prices were going up significantly that many buyers were saying “I wish we had bought a while ago when the market wasn’t so hot”. I’m not armed with a crystal ball so I’m not here to tell you what is going to happen but I suspect there is a very good buying window right now for those looking for an opportunity.
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A local Mackay and Sarina based model has created a dress out of newspapers, including Mackay Life, for her upcoming pageant, representing her region and hometown on the runway as she vies for Miss Diamond International in Brisbane. Zoe Place will be competing this weekend in the three-day event, beginning this Friday 2nd October and ending on Sunday 4th October. The young model spent around a month creating her eco-fashion outfit, using old newspapers as the main material and transforming them into a bodice, skirt and flowers. Red elements were also incorporated into the design to give the dress a bold and glamorous pageant feel. Zoe said, “The entire concept was really about taking something that would normally be thrown away and turning it into something beautiful and meaningful.” Her eco-fashion creation will form part of a busy weekend in Brisbane, with the Miss Diamond International event including photo shoots, interviews, an eco-fashion show and the final pageant. Zoe has been preparing for the event by practising her strut and walking, preparing for interviews and getting comfortable in the different outfits she will wear throughout the weekend. Alongside her love of modelling, pageantry has also provided Zoe with a platform to raise awareness about causes close to her heart, including mental health, while fundraising for Beyond Blue. “Pageantry has given me more of a platform to combine my love for modelling with something that is really important to me.” “When I first started, I was more nervous about putting myself out there and worried about what others would think about me – but I’ve changed a lot through my journey in pageantry.” “Pageantry has also taught me that it’s not about how you look on stage. It’s about the person you are when you step off it.” “Every woman has their own unique journey and that journey is something we should all be really proud of.” “To me, it represents confidence, empowerment, kindness, and using your voice to make a difference.” Zoe said she was looking forward to meeting the other contestants, making new connections and creating memories. “I’m definitely looking forward to meeting all the new contestants and making new connections and creating memories that I will carry with me for a lifetime.” While Zoe hopes to eventually move to the city, her sights are set even further afield, with a dream of one day walking in New York Fashion Week. Mackay and Sarina local Zoe Place has created an eco-fashion dress from recycled newspapers, including Mackay Life, ahead of her Miss Diamond International pageant in Brisbane. Photos supplied
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Trends, reels and the endless cycle of always wanting more has quietly bombarded the minds of countless social media users of all ages, but one former Mackay local has made it her mission to help others understand the effects of social media and find practical ways to break free from online addiction. Alexis Zahner is in Mackay over the next week to teach upcoming generations about social media and the effects it can have on the mind, particularly on identity, self-discovery, as well as the marketing strategies that get viewers hooked and influence their decisions. It is something Alexis knows first-hand can be a useful tool, but also a great disruption to authenticity and the world as we see and experience it. Alexis will hold a free meet and greet and book launch today, Friday 2nd October, at 5.30pm at the Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club, where she will give a talk and answer questions relating to her debut book, Real: Reconnecting to Yourself in a World of Likes and Lies. A former Mackay girl, Alexis spent the past 15 years working across business psychology, marketing and media, with her interest in social media influence beginning during her university studies at James Cook University in Townsville. Her own experience as a social media user, travel blogger and influencer eventually led her to question how much of her identity, decisions and values were being shaped by what she saw online. “The tipping point came for me about 3 years ago when I had this feeling that I couldn't separate influence from my own personal decision making,” she said. “I couldn't separate my own likes, dislikes, values, relationships from what I was being exposed to and being influenced by online.” “I found that I needed to take some time away from social media to recalibrate what was important to me and sort of reconnect and come back to myself.” Alexis said she understood the feeling of questioning who you are outside of social media. “I know what it feels like to live a life under the influence of social media and have that existential crisis of thinking to yourself, who am I? What do I like? What's the kind of life I want to live? and struggling to separate myself from influence.” Alexis is particularly passionate about reaching teenagers, who she says are in an important stage of identity development, and will share this message with Mackay high school students during her upcoming school talks. “Teenagers are really easily influenced by social media. So it's a really important age where we start educating them – not just on the mental health repercussions of things like social media and how it shortens their attention span, but how it actually influences who they become.” “If you're asking yourself these questions, it's not your fault. Social media is actually geared to create this impact on you.” Alexis encourages people of all ages to “start expanding beyond what you see on the platform.” “Dare to indulge in the things that you've always been curious about or things you used to love,” she said. “Don't be afraid to put the phone down to let yourself be curious and have fun.” What: Alexis Zahner's 'Real' Book launch When: 5.30pm Friday 2nd October 2026 Where: Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club Former Mackay local and author Alexis Zahner is returning home to share her experiences with social media and her debut book, Real. Photo supplied
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One of the best parts of being Mayor is getting the chance to recognise people who quietly do great things for our community.
So I want to start this week by congratulating Whitsunday SES Local Controller Greg Yuskan, who has taken out the Suncorp Spirit of SES Award at the Queensland SES State Awards.
It’s a fantastic achievement and well-deserved recognition for Greg’s leadership, professionalism and commitment to our Whitsunday community.
But I reckon Greg would be the first to say that SES is very much a team effort.
Across the Whitsundays we are incredibly lucky to have people who put their hand up to help when things go wrong.
They’re SES volunteers, rural firies, marine rescue crews and the many other volunteers and emergency service personnel who turn up when our community needs them.
Most aren't doing it for awards or recognition. They do it because they care about their community and want to help.
As Chair of the Whitsunday Disaster Management Group, I get to see just how important these people are and how much work goes on behind the scenes before an emergency ever happens.
Training, planning and preparing doesn't attract much attention on a normal Tuesday afternoon.
But when a cyclone is approaching, roads are cut or somebody needs help, suddenly that preparation matters enormously.
Cyclone season officially starts on 1 November, so we're getting to that time of year when all of us should start thinking about our own preparations as well.
That doesn't mean panicking or filling the trolley with baked beans every time there's a cloud on the weather map.
It just means having a plan, knowing where you'll get reliable information, checking around the house and making sure you're ready before you need to be.
Because disaster preparedness isn't only something Council and emergency services do as we all have a part to play.
So congratulations again Greg, and thank you to every volunteer across the Whitsundays who gives their time to help keep the rest of us safe.
You probably don't hear it often enough, but our community is lucky to have you.
Whitsunday community groups and not-for-profits can now apply for grants of up to $5,000 through the new Whitsundays Chamber Community Fund.
Launched by the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Fund creates a new way for money generated through Chamber activities and local business support to be reinvested into projects benefiting the community.
The funding pool will include a share of stallholder fees from the Airlie Beach Cruise Ship Markets and Proserpine Community Markets, alongside donations, sponsorships and proceeds raised through Chamber events.
Chamber President Allan Milostic said the Fund recognised the important contribution made by volunteers, community groups and small organisations across the region.
“Some of the things that make the Whitsundays such a great place to live, work and visit aren’t run by business at all—they’re run by volunteers, community groups and small organisations working with tight budgets and a lot of goodwill,” Allan said.
“The Chamber’s role is to support business and strengthen our local economy, but a strong economy is only part of the picture.
“This Fund is about closing that loop—taking money generated locally and putting it back into local causes.”
Funding will be offered across three categories:
Applicants do not need to be Chamber members. Submissions will be assessed against published criteria, including community benefit, financial need, value for money, alignment with the Fund’s purpose and the organisation’s ability to deliver.
Chamber Portfolio Manager Cait Fleming said transparency would be central to the program, with applications independently scored by the Chamber Board.
“We want organisations to know there is a fair and transparent process, and businesses and market stallholders who contribute can have confidence their money is being put back into the community,” Cait said.
The Fund also provides local businesses with a straightforward way to support community causes through donations, sponsorships and fundraising.
“Many local businesses want to help but don’t necessarily have the capacity to identify organisations or manage grants,” Cait said.
“The Fund provides a simple way to contribute, while allowing community organisations to put forward the projects they know will make a difference.”
Round 1 opens Monday 13th September and closes at 11.59pm on Sunday 18th October, with outcomes announced by 30th November.
Applications can be submitted at www.whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au. Questions can be directed to portfolios@whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au.
Burdekin shire council Mayor, Pierina Dalle Cort and Councillors cutting ribbons to open completed expansion.
Burdekin Shire Council is proud to announce the completion of the Ayr Industrial Estate Expansion, marking a major milestone in the region’s economic development and delivering new opportunities for business growth, investment and job creation.
The project has transformed land adjacent to the existing industrial estate into a fully serviced industrial precinct, creating 19 new industrial lots in stage 1. The development includes new roads, drainage, water, sewerage and underground power infrastructure to support future industrial growth in the Burdekin.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the completion of the project was the result of Council’s long-term vision to ensure the region has the infrastructure and land supply needed to support future economic growth.
“This is one of the most significant economic development projects delivered by Council in recent years and represents an investment in the future of the Burdekin,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
“The hard work is done. The infrastructure is in place, the land is ready, and now we’re inviting businesses and investors to be part of the next chapter of the Burdekin’s growth story.
“Whether you’re looking to establish a new operation, relocate, or expand an existing business, there has never been a better time to invest in the Burdekin.”
The expanded precinct has been designed to accommodate a diverse range of industries and provide opportunities for existing businesses to expand while attracting new enterprises to the region. Previous planning identified the project as having the potential to generate hundreds of jobs during construction and through ongoing industrial development.
The expansion complements the existing Ayr Industrial Estate and provides additional capacity to support the region’s diverse agricultural, manufacturing, transport and service industries into the future.
Businesses and investors interested in opportunities within the Ayr Industrial Estate Precinct can contact their preferred real estate agent or visit Council’s website for further information, burdekin.qld.gov.au.
Chris Burgess and Este Darin-Cooper. Photo supplied: Este Darin Cooper
Bowen couple Chris Burgess and Este Darin-Cooper were recognised on Saturday 5th September, receiving the prestigious Ron Dempster Award for their exceptional contribution to the future of recreational fishing in Queensland.
The award celebrates their efforts through the Inshore Flats Project, a community-led initiative advocating for the long-term health of Queensland’s inshore habitats and coastal fisheries.
The project has promoted a sustainable approach to managing important fishing habitats while bringing together those closely connected to the coast. It also rallied community opposition to a proposed new tunnel-net fishery in the Whitsundays and elsewhere along Queensland’s east coast, with a petition attracting more than 11,000 signatures.
“Our inshore flats — the beaches, bays and foreshores — are some of the most accessible and productive waters for everyone, from dedicated sport fishers through to families, kids and visitors,” Chris said.
“They also provide key nursery habitat for juvenile fish and movement corridors for countless species. When you look after these areas, you’re looking after the whole fishery.”
Este said the award recognised all the people who helped build the project from the ground up.
“Everything we’ve achieved has been built with people whose lives and livelihoods are connected to these waters giving their time, expertise and support because they genuinely care about the future of these fisheries,” she said.
“It is an absolute honour to accept this award, following in the footsteps of past recipients like the legendary Vic McCrystal, and we accept it on behalf of all the members of the Inshore Flats Project.”
The volunteer-led initiative has recently taken another important step forward by incorporating as a not-for-profit association.
Bowen Chamber President Alex Pike, owner of Meraki Whitsunday Amanda Brockbank, owner of Fiorella Florals Lily Blain, owner of Bird’s Fish Bar Chloe Baur, WRC and WCC&I Liaison Jo Shepherd and Mayor Ry Collins. Photo credit: Rachael Smith
By Rachael Smith
Three inspiring local business women took to the stage at the Larrikin Hotel on Tuesday evening, highlighting the importance of striving towards your dreams and sharing what success looks like in regional business.
Hosted by former Bowen Chamber President, Joanne Shepherd, the panel presentation saw Lily Blain from Fiorella Florals, Chloe Baur from Bird’s Fish Bar and Amanda Brockbank from Meraki Café share their stories following their recent success at the Queensland Best of Business Awards.
Fiorella Florist won Queensland’s Best Florist in the Queensland Day Awards this year, Meraki was awarded second place for the Best Café in Queensland and Bird’s Fish Bar took home 1st place in 2025, followed by runner-up this year for Best Fish and Chip Shop.
Joanne Shepherd congratulated all three women and shared how impressive it was to have three businesswomen who are also state-wide winners residing in the same town.
Each woman shared their personal story which outlined individual challenges and gave an insight into what it takes to run a business in a regional community.
This was followed by an update from newly elected Bowen Chamber President Alex Pike who took the audience through a new-look Chamber plan for the future which focuses on collaboration and inclusivity.
He also announced his fellow board members: Glenda Robertson (Secretary), Vineeth Siripuram (Treasurer), Barney Menzie (BCE Liaison), Jo Shepherd (WRC and WCC&I Liaison), Mark Steen (Events), John Barnes (Policy Review).
Next up, Paul Hanlon, Whitsunday Regional Council Manager of Investment Attraction and Growth provided an in-depth look at future growth in the region and planning over the next decade, giving an insight into projected population growth.
Mayor Ry Collins and his wife Mel were present on the evening and Chamber announced that Ry would be speaking at the forthcoming October event.
All Bowen businesses are encouraged to become members and attend the newly revitalised monthly meetings. The next one is due to take place at the Larrikin Hotel on Tuesday 13th October.
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More than four years after three members of a family were murdered and a fourth was seriously injured, Bogie farmer Darryl Young has been found guilty of all four crimes.
The 63-year-old was convicted in the Townsville Supreme Court on Friday 4th September for the murder of Mervyn and Maree Schwarz and Maree’s son, Graham Tighe, as well as attempting to murder Graham’s brother, Ross Tighe.
After 15 hours of deliberations over three days, the jury unanimously found Young guilty of all three murders. An 11–1 majority verdict was later reached on the attempted murder charge.
"We are grateful to the jury for their guilty verdict, but no verdict or sentence can give us back Merv, Maree and Graham, or what Ross had to survive that day," Mervyn Schwarz's eldest son, Guy Schwarz, said on behalf of the families in an ABC report.
"He robbed two young children of their father and a whole family of people we loved."
The verdict followed a four-week trial examining the events of August 4th 2022, when the four members of the Schwarz-Tighe family arrived at the gate of Young’s Shannonvale Station at Bogie.
The court heard Young had long accused the family of stealing and selling his cattle. Following a tense phone call with Graham, Young demanded the family meet him at the boundary gate between the properties.
When the Schwarz-Tighe family arrived about 8am, Young fatally shot Mervyn, Maree and Graham with a .30-30 calibre rifle. Ross was shot in the abdomen but managed to escape in a vehicle and raise the alarm.
In the years that followed, Young maintained his innocence, pleading not guilty and claiming he was not at the gate when the shootings occurred.
His defence pointed to footage recorded by wind farm workers elsewhere on the property at 8.04am, about six kilometres from the scene, which could have brought into question whether Young could have committed the shootings before being seen again about 8.30am.
His lawyers also challenged Ross Tighe’s account, going as far as suggesting Ross may have been responsible for the shootings.
However, the jury heard evidence supporting Ross’s account, including .30-30 calibre cartridge casings found around the victims and ammunition of the same calibre discovered in Young’s home.
Two of the trial’s more than 30 witnesses also recalled overhearing Young angrily demand that Graham and his family meet him at the gate the following morning. Taken together, the evidence convinced the jury of Young’s guilt.
Photo supplied: Sacred Earth Collective.
A casual Sunday morning clean-up has left the gateway to Airlie Beach around 40 kilograms lighter, after three local volunteers tackled rubbish scattered across the hills along Shute Harbour Road.
On the 30th August Sacred Earth Collective filled four large sacks with waste from the roadside. Beyond improving the area’s appearance, the clean-up helped stop rubbish from entering the drainage system during heavy rain and eventually making its way into the ocean and Great Barrier Reef.
“This rubbish eventually ends up in the sea after big rains as it finds its way into the drainage system,” a representative for Sacred Earth Collective shared.
“Thanks to the 3 friends and local legends for giving an hour of their time to making an impact.”
With the wet season approaching, the group is not stopping there. Its next community clean-up will take place this Sunday 13th September, targeting several roadside and coastal areas between Airlie Beach and Shute Harbour.
“All are welcome,” the group said.
“First location will be the hills coming up into Airlie, the bends in the roads at Shute Harbour, then the beaches and mangroves down at Shute Harbour.”
Contact Sacred Earth Collective on Facebook to get involved.
BY GEORGIA MCDONALD
Following a vote on the proposed transfer of Proserpine Nursing Home to national aged-care provider Respect Group on Monday 7th September, the home will remain under community ownership.
The decision comes after the nursing home’s board proposed transferring the facility and its assets to Respect Group Ltd. Based in Tasmania, Respect operates aged-care homes, retirement living and home-care services across regional Australia, with a network of 47 community aged-care homes.
The board said the proposal was considered as the nursing home faced increasing challenges around regulations, staffing, governance and the cost of running an independent aged-care provider.
The nursing home has been part of the Proserpine community for almost 40 years, and members of the community have expressed their happiness to see still in their possession.
“There's relief, a lot of relief in the community as far as I'm aware,” said association member Allana Van Niekerk, who had previously advocated against the transition.
She described the outcome as a community effort, saying staff and association members had faced difficulties getting answers throughout the process.
“It was 100 per cent a team effort in making sure it remained with us,” she said.
Respect Group Ltd has since responded to the result, saying its focus throughout the process was on ensuring older people in the region received the care they deserve.
“At the end of the day, our not-for-profit purpose is what drives Respect, and that purpose isn’t to take over facilities. It’s to ensure older people receive the care they deserve, no matter where they live,” said CEO & Managing Director Jason Binder.
“This was never about me or Respect. It was always about the older people in the Proserpine community and ensuring they got the care they deserved. The community is confident it can continue to deliver great care to the older people of Prosperine and surrounding communities, and if that’s the case, we’re very happy to see that happen.
“I'll be cheering them on and genuinely wish them every success.”
Attention will now turn to the Proserpine Nursing Home association’s Annual General Meeting on 28th September, when members will have their chance to select members board for the coming year.
Allana said the make-up of that board would depend on who association members nominated and elected.
“Hopefully we get a well-rounded skill set on it, and then we can move forward,” she said.
She expressed hope the next chapter will bring greater community involvement and transparency, with association members given more say in the home’s future.
Andy and Kirsty Holmes from custom lithium with Grant Denyer before the off road ride. Photo credit: Dan Johns
The roar of engines revived through Bowen this past weekend, as the Don River Dash delivered two days of fast-paced racing across an iconic off-road river course.
Now in its eighth year, the Burdekin Offroaders event challenged competitors to complete across 300 kilometres through deep sand, water crossings, dust and heavy traffic. Flooding earlier this year had stripped away large amounts of sand and vegetation, leaving organisers with the enormous task of building two new 25-kilometre tracks through the changed riverbed.
“Our volunteers, officials, recovery crews, track preparation teams, sponsors and the wider community all play such an important role in making this event possible,” said Burdekin Offroaders President Michael Marson.
“Their commitment and effort, both in the lead-up and across the race weekend, is what makes the Don River Dash such a special event for Bowen and the Whitsunday region.”
Australian television personality and motorsport enthusiast Grant Denyer was among the weekend’s most recognisable competitors, tackling his first off-road race in a Custom Lithium-backed vehicle.
“My first ever off-road race was nuts,” Denyer said.
“I sent it flying, got drenched in river crossings, sand in my bits and a smile that won’t leave my face. The Don River Dash was epic.”
Denyer praised the people, terrain and location, describing the event as “some of the most fun you can have in a car”.
Brett Comiskey and navigator Corey Cooper conquered the car section in a brand-new Class 8 Mason all-wheel-drive truck, completing the course in two hours and 38 minutes.
The victory was made even more impressive by Comiskey having virtually no time behind the wheel beforehand, with his only previous drive occurring when he unloaded the truck from the trailer.
In the bike section, Newcastle rider Levi Stephens went one better than his second-place finish in 2025, claiming victory in two hours and 50 minutes.
The engines were not the only things firing on all cylinders over the weekend, with the Don River Dash delivering a welcome boost for businesses across Bowen.
Bowen Tourism and Business Manager Leanne Abernethy said the Visitor Information Centre and local accommodation providers were consistently busy around the event.
“At the Bowen Visitor Information Centre, we are always busy leading up to the event, as well as over the weekend and the days immediately after,” she said.
“A lot of competitors, along with their crew and supporters, come several days before and many stay for a few days after the event and check out the rest of the region.”
“Bowen Tourism and Business is proud to support the Don River Dash.”
Photo by Zach Houtenville
By Zach Houtenville
After months of speculation and growing community debate, Proserpine Nursing Home (PNH) association members are preparing to make a decision that could reshape the facility’s future.
Built nearly four decades ago, the Proserpine Nursing home started out as cane paddock donated from a local farmer, filling a community gap with 30 beds.
Over time, it's turned into a haven for the communities' elderly, expanding into the 103 beds it is today.
Now, that community legacy rests with association members, who will vote on Monday 7th September, on whether the home and its assets should be transferred to national not-for-profit aged-care provider Respect Group Limited.
Headquartered in Tasmania, Respect Group currently operates 47 community aged-care homes, alongside retirement living and home-care services, across regional Australia.
While Respect Group’s board declined to comment on the matter, a representative on behalf of Proserpine Nursing Home said it had approached three large not-for-profit providers before selecting Respect, citing its experience in regional communities, clinical governance, quality of care and alignment with the home’s values as drawing points.
Under the proposal, Respect would retain existing staff and invest at least $10 million in the Proserpine facility within three years, with its total commitment potentially reaching up to $20 million.
The PNH representative said the arrangement would be a transfer between two not-for-profit organisations rather than a commercial sale, allowing the home’s resources to continue supporting aged care.
“This type of transfer is not unusual to PNH,” the representative said.
“Transfers of assets between not-for-profit organisations to continue a shared purpose occur regularly across Australia and across many sectors- including the aged care sector.”
However, association member and accountant Allana Van Niekerk, whose mother-in-law moved into the home back in November, has questioned whether the proposed transfer represents fair value for a facility built and supported by the Proserpine community.
PNH’s 2025 financial statements recorded $32.6 million in total assets, including $20.6 million in cash and $11.9 million in property, plant and equipment. Its liabilities included $14.7 million recorded as ‘other financial liabilities’, which Allana said largely represented refundable deposits owed to residents.
Her concern is that Respect would receive the home’s land, buildings, cash and liabilities without paying a purchase price. She has also raised questions about Respect’s management of refundable accommodation deposits across its expanding network. Their 2025 financial statements recorded $264.3 million in cash and $568 million in residential funds held.
Allana fears PNH’s cash could be pooled with Respect’s broader finances and used for permitted purposes, including developments or acquisitions elsewhere, rather than remaining within the Proserpine facility, and won’t be available to meet refundable accommodation deposit obligations.
“We’re giving away assets that are community-owned,” she said, alleging:
“The biggest issue is that historically, Respect Group, by their financials, have spent 60 per cent of the refundable accommodation deposits held by residents.”
“It won’t necessarily go back into our nursing home.
“There are two sides to this, and the board is choosing not to share that with the community.”
When asked about its due diligence, the nursing home’s representative said the board had reviewed Respect’s financial position and was satisfied it could meet its obligations to residents.
“Respect has one of the strongest balance sheets among large aged care providers in Australia and comfortably meets the Australian Government’s prudential requirements for the repayment of refundable accommodation deposits,” said the representative.
“Regardless of this, residents’ refundable accommodation deposits are guaranteed by the Australian Government, providing an additional safeguard regardless of the provider’s financial position.”
Beyond the financial debate, Allana has raised concerns about the process put in place for the upcoming vote, questioning whether the process follows the association’s constitution.
According to the association’s constitutions, page 8 section 27(1), a general meeting vote must be called by the board’s secretary, and according to page 10 section 32(5), all proxy votes must be sent to the board’s secretary.
However, emails sent to Allana show that the current interim general manager at the nursing home was the one to call the general meeting, and that he requested all proxy votes be sent to him personally.
“I emailed the board asking them to correct and have not had a response,” said Allana.
Allana’s concerns extend to availability of information, with member requests for financial records, meeting minutes and access to the association’s membership list reportedly unanswered ahead of the vote.
The nursing home’s representative pointed to PNH’s latest audited financial statements, which are publicly available on its website. The 2025–26 audit was completed in August, but the results are not expected to reach the board until September.
“We understand concerns about the FY26 results not being available before the 7th September vote, however, this decision was not made for solely financial reasons,” said the nursing home’s representative.
“The Board’s decision is about the increasingly complex regulatory risk, and governance, workforce and capital requirements of operating a stand-alone aged care provider.”
Figures provided by the nursing home show the number of small residential aged-care providers across Australia declined by 32 per cent between 2017 and 2025, while the number of large providers rose by 37 per cent. They mentioned similar transfers have happened at Sarina Community Nursing Home, Resthaven on Quarry, Nanyima Mirani Nursing Home and Glenella Care.
For those opposing the transfer, the issue is about more than dollars and figures. It is about keeping a much-loved facility, built and supported by generations of locals, in the hands of the community it serves.
“In our experience generally, what happens when a community loses control of an important institution like an aged-care home is it eventually results in worse services for the community,” Australian Worker’s Union Northern District Secretary Jim Wilson told the ABC.
With arguments raised on both sides, the decision will ultimately rest with association members when they cast their votes on Monday.
National parks across Mackay and the Whitsundays are set to benefit from the Queensland Government's latest investment in protected areas, with expansions announced for Eungella National Park, Homevale National Park and Molle Islands National Park.
The additions form part of the Government's commitment to grow Queensland's protected area network, with more than 82,000 hectares added statewide and $111 million allocated in the 2026-27 State Budget to support future acquisitions and park management.
Among the local additions, Eungella National Park received the largest increase, with 9,136 hectares added, while a new 992-hectare Eungella Conservation Park has also been established. Homevale National Park near Bowen expanded by approximately 290 hectares and Molle Islands National Park in the Whitsundays increased by 4.6 hectares. The investment will support the strategic acquisition of environmentally significant land while continuing practical, on-the-ground worksuch as pest and weed management, fire preparedness and improvements to visitor infrastructure.
Statewide, the expansion includes the creation of Dhuny Yumba (Home of the Wombat) National Park near St George, protecting critical habitat for the endangered northern hairy-nosed wombat. Since November 2024, more than 259,000 hectares have been added to Queensland's protected area network.
Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said Queenslanders expected practical action to protect the places that make the State unique.
“Queensland is home to some of the most remarkable natural places anywhere in the world, and it’s our responsibility to protect them for the generations that follow,” Minister Powell said.
“That’s why we’re taking a practical approach - protecting the right places, investing in looking after them properly and making sure they continue to support regional communities, local jobs and visitors for generations to come. This is about growing Queensland’s protected areas sensibly and strategically, while making sure we never lose sight of the job of caring for the places we already have.”
The protected area investment forms part of the Government's broader commitment of $139 million over four years, including $34 million ongoing each year to expand Queensland's protected areas and improve visitor experiences.
For communities across Mackay and the Whitsundays, the latest additions reinforce the importance of preserving some of the region's most iconic natural landscapes while supporting tourism and recreation opportunities for years to come.
Bruno is a handsome Rottweiler cross with a big love for life and plenty of affection to give. Surrendered through no fault of his own, this playful and active boy is now looking for a loving family to call his own.
Bruno gets along well with adults, children of all ages, other dogs and even cats. He thrives on human connection and enjoys everything from beach walks and playing in the water to a game of fetch or simply relaxing by your side.
Well trained and easy to walk on a lead, Bruno loves family time just as much as playtime.
Fully vaccinated, desexed and microchipped, Bruno is ready to become part of your life.
To arrange a meet and greet, contact his carer from Lucys Lucky Tags & Dog Rescue Inc on 0401 366 573 or email LLTAGSandDogRescue@gmail.com
From fishing trips and camping adventures to long days on the tools, an active lifestyle has always been part of Dr Bryan Sturdy’s world; a perspective that he now brings to his work at Move It Chiropractic.
Born in Mackay, Dr Bryan grew up in a family passionate about fishing, camping and hunting before completing his Bachelor of Science (Chiropractic) and Master of Clinical Chiropractic at CQUniversity’s Mackay campus.
While studying, he also worked at a local engineering company, giving him firsthand experience of the physical demands, long hours and hard work that come with hands-on industries. It has shaped his passion for helping blue-collar workers across engineering, mining, farming, construction, driving and other physically demanding occupations.
“I believe in taking the time to listen, understand what’s important to each person and work alongside them to achieve their health and movement goals,” Dr Bryan says.
His connection to chiropractic began at just 12 years old, when he developed severe back pain and postural issues. Discovering chiropractic had a profound impact on his life and ultimately inspired him to pursue the profession himself.
That experience continues to influence his approach to healthcare, with a focus on understanding the individual and taking a personalised approach rather than simply focusing on symptoms.
Dr Bryan also enjoys caring for the whole family, from children through to grandparents, believing good health and the ability to stay active matter at every stage of life.
Away from the practice, he enjoys regular training, soccer, camping and exploring Mackay and the Whitsundays with his wife.
“I also come from a family of keen fishermen, so whenever I get the chance, you’ll usually find me out on the water!”
Photo source: Shutterstock
A morning of connection, conversation and community will take centre stage at the Mackay Seniors Expo on Tuesday 15th September.
Held from 9am to 12pm at The Big Shed, Mackay Showgrounds, the annual expo brings together more than 80 exhibitors and approximately 2,000 community members, creating a valuable space for older residents, their families, friends and carers to discover what is available across the region.
From local services and support programs to opportunities that encourage wellbeing and community connection, the expo offers something valuable for seniors at every stage of life. It is a chance to ask questions, meet local organisations, discover new possibilities and perhaps make a few new connections along the way.
More than an information event, the expo reflects the importance of creating communities where older people feel valued, included and connected.
The event forms part of the Queensland Government’s state-wide Seniors Month celebrations, which aim to encourage positive attitudes towards older people, support participation and activity, and strengthen community and intergenerational relationships.
With thousands of locals expected to attend, the Mackay Seniors Expo is an opportunity to celebrate the contribution of older members of the community while helping them stay informed, engaged and connected to the people and services around them.
When care moves beyond a transactional service and becomes a deeply personal relationship, the impact can be felt across an entire community.
That belief has been at the heart of Nurse Next Door Mackay since George Blackie and Sarah Ryan launched the franchise in 2023.
After years working in the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) sector, the pair recognised a gap for a local provider led by values and a commitment to people.
“We treat people how we would like to be treated,” Sarah says.
What sets Sarah and George apart is their ability to look beyond the care plan and see the whole person behind the care. They take time to understand each individual’s story, preferences, experiences and what matters most to them, creating support that is personal and compassionate.
“We genuinely have the intention of Making Lives Better for everyone we cross paths with.”
That philosophy is reflected in the relationships they build. One example is a client referred to as Bob, who had moved through several Mackay providers, with none lasting longer than nine months. With Nurse Next Door, he found stability and was supported for more than 18 months. Over that time, the team became a trusted presence. When Bob passed away, George and Sarah were by his side.
“We were repeatedly told how Nurse Next Door was the best provider Bob had experienced, and we are grateful to have made his final years positive,” Sarah reflects.
“The most rewarding part is making a difference for those who are extremely vulnerable and hesitant to trust.”
While clinical safety, staff capability and training remain fundamental, Sarah believes exceptional care must include warmth and connection.
“Complex community care is serious work, but there should always be room for laughter,” she says.
“Quality care is built on a foundation of safety and happiness.
”That combination of clinical excellence and empathy has supported growth. In its first year, Nurse Next Door Mackay delivered 15,267 hours of care. By 2026, that figure had grown to 143,943 hours.
Behind every hour is a person, and Sarah and George are quick to recognise the team members who make that care possible.
“We could not do what we do without the incredible people who choose Nurse Next Door and show up every day with the purpose of making someone else’s life better. Their commitment, compassion and dedication are what make the difference.”
Their impact has been recognised nationally. Within three-and-a-half years of opening, Nurse Next Door Mackay was named Best Single Unit Franchise in Australia.
For Sarah and George, being changemakers means challenging traditional models of care and continually asking how the experience can be improved.
“Being a changemaker means staying adaptable, remaining curious and recognising that there is always something new to learn,” Sarah says.
That mindset is what makes them genuine disruptors in the market.
Rather than treating care as a checklist of tasks, they are helping redefine what quality home care can look like: more personal, more responsive and more connected to the individual.
Their approach centres on understanding the person behind the care plan and supporting their independence, dignity and quality of life.
It is a philosophy that challenges convention, raises expectations and demonstrates what is possible when care is built around people first.
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