The Queensland Government Election Day is only two weeks away and it is important that our Whitsunday community’s voices are heard to ensure our region gets the investment it deserves!
 
I have been clocking up the frequent flyer points in recent months with visits to Canberra and Brisbane for face-to-face meetings with key Federal and State Government Ministers and their staff to advocate strongly for future funding for major projects that will transform the Whitsundays.
 
The Whitsunday Coast Airport Masterplan, the Airlie Beach Skyway Project, the Lake Proserpine Stage 2 Masterplan and the Bowen Foreshore Masterplan are just some of the priority projects that are critical to boosting tourism, driving local jobs, and future-proofing our Whitsunday region.
 
This election we are simply asking for Our Fair Share because Council cannot do this on our own. We need to partner with both tiers of government to ensure we can deliver the important service and community infrastructure that is required to support our rapid population growth.
 
We’ve got a lot of roads – over 1780 kilometres of Council maintained roads - and that’s why it is so important that we continue to advocate for additional funding through state and federal road maintenance, recovery, and betterment programs.
 
Linked to our strong budget spending on a local roads program by Council, it is vital we gain Federal and State Government funding assistance so we can deliver a road network that is safe and useable for our residents right across the Whitsunday region.
 
We have had a couple of commitments in the past week with the Bowen Jetty approved and funding allocated prior to the actual election. This project is too important to the community to be left waiting for an outcome.
 
Well done to the NQBP team, look forward to seeing construction start and working with you to deliver our region’s next great landmark and progress for revitalising Bowen’s waterfront precinct.
 
Yesterday the current Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm gave an election commitment of $10 million towards a new boat ramp and trailer parking at Shute Bay.
 
This is much needed as our Whitsunday community has a deep connection with the water and boats with one of the highest rates of boat ownership per capita in the country.
 
More boat ramps not only mean more access for locals and tourists alike, but they also reduce congestion and improve safety on our waterways.
 
Expanding these facilities will help us support local businesses, boost tourism, and maintain the incredible liveability that makes the Whitsundays so special.
 
Whether you're a keen angler, a recreational sailor, or simply enjoy a day on the water with your family, the addition of the proposed 4-lane boat ramp with trailer parking for 149 vehicles is exciting news for our community.
 
Mayor Ry Collins

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Pioneer State High School student Yasmin Johnston has made an outstanding achievement through her participation in the Seed Foundation and Connect 'n' Grow program, which partners with Mackay Hospital and Health Service to offer Indigenous students the chance to begin their healthcare career while still in school.

The year 12 student was named Dux of the 2024 graduating class, recognising her exceptional dedication and work ethic. She completed her placement hours three months ahead of schedule, which led to her being awarded an impressive cadetship for midwifery training in 2025.

Throughout the program that spans Year 11 and 12, Yasmin earned a Certificate II and III in Health Services Assistance and gained hands-on experience as a trainee in midwifery at Mackay Hospital and Health Service’s Labour Ward. Her time in the program exposed her to a wide range of experiences and her supervisors praised her commitment and adaptability.

Yasmin’s achievements are a reflection of her passion for healthcare, and her efforts have secured her a promising future in midwifery.

If you are currently in Year 10 and interested in this program for next year, visit www.connectngrow.edu.au

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Yasmin (centre) is pictured below with Tom Wix (Deputy, PSHS), Corrie Thompson (Seed Foundation), Darren Bailey (trainer, Connect ‘n’Grow) and Sharlene Miller (SAT coordinator, PSHS). Photo source: Pioneer State High School (Facebook)

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The Adelaide to Whitsundays flights have been operating since early September and have proven successful with local residents and incoming tourists alike.

The new route is providing Adelaide locals with a new direct, fast and cheaper route to The Whitsundays, Australia’s best tourist destination.

The influx of Adelaide travel-makers is increasing numbers for the Whitsundays tourism, but it also supplies locals with a new holiday destination.

CEO of Whitsunday Coast Airport Craig Turner said this new destination makes reaching capital cities more accessible for people here in the Whitsundays.

“Living in regional North Queensland, distance is a challenge for people. So, to be able to have connectivity to places like Adelaide, it makes the Whitsundays equally more liveable because you have cost effective and convenient flights to capital city destinations that make Australia a lot smaller,” said Craig.

“It is about offering a different experience to the Whitsundays for example going to enjoy a fire and some beautiful red wine from the Barossa in winter.

“Or go and see the seals down at Kangaroo Island.

“It is about the diverse experiences that we don't get in the Whitsundays.”

Adelaide is known as the City of Churches, but more excitingly, it is known for its wine regions, dining and great events year-round.

In late summer, 21 February – 23 March the Adelaide streets are bustling with excitement as everyone takes advantage of the warm evenings and fantastic shows.

For lovers of food Adelaide offers Tasting Australia in early May. It’s a celebration of food and a unique eating and drinking experience that only South Australia can offer.

In cold July many would think Adelaideans are hiding inside trying to stay warm, but this is not true. In July Illuminate Adelaide shines bright across the city, giving locals and travellers a winter festival filled with light, art, music and technology.

South Australia is known globally for its exceptional wine regions. The Adelaide Hills, McLaren Vale and the Barossa, deliver amazing wines. The d’Arenberg cube is a unique cellar door with food, art, wine tastings and experiences that make it a must visit destination.

Cricket and AFL enthusiasts will love Adelaide Oval for its exceptional match day atmosphere that is unrivalled.

The Whitsunday to Adelaide flights currently run three times a week but Craig hopes to grow this to five flights a week and then daily.

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The d’Arenberg Cube in McLaren Vale South Australia is a unique and must visit location for wine enthusiasts

Your next holiday could be to Adelaide thanks to Whitsunday Coast Airport direct flights

Adelaide Oval provides sporting fans with AFL, test cricket and more

Photos supplied

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Natural Body And Beauty Clinic

Looking to feel radiant and rejuvenated in time for summer?

Natural Body and Beauty Clinic on Palmer Street is offering the ultimate solution to help clients feel radiant and rejuvenated for summer. Their Honey Cellulite Detox Ritual is ideal for those preparing for the season's big events, from races to Christmas parties.

The Ultrasound Body Contouring treatment at the clinic targets cellulite with low-frequency sound waves, breaking down fatty tissue in areas like the thighs and buttocks. This process smooths and reduces cellulite, sculpts and tones the body, and enhances skin elasticity while promoting circulation and lymphatic flow.

Following this, the clinic’s signature Pure Fiji Honey Cellulite Treatment combines Fijian honey and coconut milk in a luxurious body scrub and masque. This revitalizing ritual eliminates toxins, firms the skin, and leaves it feeling soft, nourished, and hydrated. Perfect for post-pregnancy or anyone seeking a natural skin boost, the treatment is packed with vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids for long-lasting hydration and firmness.

Clients who book four treatments by the end of November will also receive $100 worth of Pure Fiji retail products as a bonus.

Natural Body and Beauty Clinic offers a transformative experience, helping clients look and feel their best as they step into the summer season.

naturalbodyandbeautyclinic.com.au

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Explore the vibrant community around Evans Ave in North Mackay, where natural hidden gems, local attractions… and a big banana await.

Check Out Carr St Avenue

Start your adventure at Carr St Reserve, where you’re met with a dirt track that leads in and around the mangrove bushland. It's an ideal spot for an exploratory walk in nature, and if you venture far enough, you might just find yourself admiring the stunning views of the Pioneer River.

Take A Selfie With The Big Banana

After enjoying the wonders of nature, make your way over to the corner of Palmer Street and Harbour Road for a fun photo opportunity with the iconic Big Banana. Once a bustling produce store, this quirky landmark is now a beloved part of the Mackay landscape. A quick selfie with the Big Banana will surely bring a smile to your face and create lasting memories of your visit.

Explore Retail Options

Continue your journey along Evans Ave, where an array of unique dining and retail options awaits. Whether you're craving a strong coffee, a slice of delicious pizza, or a hearty meal at a local pub, you’ll find a variety of establishments to satisfy your appetite. In addition to food, the avenue boasts numerous shops, offering everything from beauty services and home retail to supermarkets and accommodations, ensuring you have all you need during your outing.

Walk, Ride And Play At John Breen Park

This park has it all! From playgrounds suitable for toddlers, all the way up to flying foxes for the older children, it features shaded areas, picnic tables, accessible parking, restrooms and even a bike path. Whether you're bringing the kids or looking to get some exercise, this is the perfect park for you.

Spot Wildlife At The Gooseponds

Bring your binoculars and wrap up the day at the Gooseponds. Enjoy the diverse wildlife, including friendly ducks and geese, and a loop pathway for walking, jogging, or biking. Alternatively, find a cozy spot on the lush grass to enjoy a delightful picnic with treats from your earlier stops. Count the different species you see and relish the joy of being surrounded by nature's beauty!

From parks and natural landmarks to dining and shopping, there’s something for everyone to enjoy along the scenic Evans Avenue!

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Carr St Reserve

Gooseponds

The Big Banana

John Breen Park

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Do you want to learn how to raise happy and healthy kids? Take the family along to the inaugural Healthy Kids Expo to be held at Cannonvale State School on Sunday 20 October which will feature interactive activities and exhibits designed to "inspire, educate, and elevate" families towards healthier, happier lives.

Exhibitors and speakers will include experts in nutrition, naturopathy, chiropractic, physiotherapy, psychology, fitness, yoga, meditation, and sleep health.

Tim Oberg, Founder of the Healthy Kids Project, enthused about the event:

"We aim to bring together a diverse group of providers and businesses in one central location, empowering parents to find answers to their questions. The health landscape is flooded with information and misinformation, and what defines health for one person may not hold true for another.

“By creating an opportunity for parents to engage with a variety of experts all in one place, we hope to foster positive outcomes for both families and the businesses involved."

While this is an educational day, it is also set to be fun, with face painting, boogie bounce and roller skating for the kids to enjoy whilst the parents are being informed.

“It is an event for everyone, we don't want parents to think they've got to leave the kids at home,” Tim emphasised.

“I am looking forward to seeing people turn up to the event and at the end of the day, we're doing this to try and help our children and help families.”

Make sure you check out the Expo for all information on keeping your kids healthy!

What: Healthy Kids Expo
When: 20th October, 10am
Where: Cannonvale State School

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Learn how to keep your kids happy and healthy

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Next year, Mackay Regional Council will welcome six new employees through its doors as apprentice and trainees.

The Apprentice and Trainee Intake program is now taking applications for a variety of roles across the organisation.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the Apprentice and Trainee program offered an opportunity for successful applicants to gain entry level pathways not only into council but the wider workforce.

“Council is a fantastic place to start your career and we encourage people from all walks of life to consider taking on a role in our organisation,” Mayor Williamson said.

“We have a variety of roles available, from libraries to mechanical and horticulture,” he said.

“Our apprenticeships and traineeships often lead to full time work at council and we are very proud to say we have many of our past apprentices and trainees still working here even 10 years later.

“Council prides itself on its apprentice and trainee program as it is vital for long-term workforce planning, helping to transfer knowledge from one generation to the next and building skills and capacity, not just for council but for our community.”

Civil Construction trainee Luke Pain said his traineeship has enabled him to learn a wide variety of skills.

“I’m doing a Certificate II in Civil Construction and am also learning concreting, which includes form setting, curbing, slabs, driveways and footpaths,” Mr Pain said.

“I have had so much support from the team here at council and I have really enjoyed my time here so far,” he said.

Former Horticulture trainee Tahni Cross said council had provided her with an opportunity for a career change.

“For me it’s been a great way to try something different - to transition to a role outside of the office and broaden my skillset,” Ms Cross said.

“I did a Certificate III in Horticulture at council’s Nursery and then moved to Natural Areas on the Beach Crew and now I am a full-time Parks Maintenance Officer at the Botanic Gardens,” she said.

“I strongly encourage anyone considering an apprenticeship or traineeship to apply for one of the council roles.”

In 2025, council is offering the following Apprentice and Trainee opportunities:

- 2 x Apprentice Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanic.

- Horticultural Trainee.

- Civil Construction Trainee.

- Live Production and Staging Trainee.

- Library Services Trainee.

Council encourages applications from Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people, anyone re-entering the workforce, those from a non-English speaking background, individuals with a disability, impairment or long-term condition, school leavers or an adult worker wishing to change careers or gain new skills.

Applications for the 2025 Apprentice and Trainee Intake are now open, more information on the positions available can be found at mackay.qld.gov.au/traineeintake

Applications will close October 25.

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Former Horticulture trainee Tahni Cross now works full time as a Parks Maintenance Officer at the Botanic Gardens. Photo credit: Mackay Regional Council

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We are excited to announce the Grand Opening of our new Inspirations Paint Cannonvale store, located at 2 Carlo Drive within the Porters Mitre 10 Whitsunday store. Grab the family and join us on Saturday, 12th October, from 9 am to 12 noon for a morning full of fun, giveaways, and entertainment!
This exciting event will feature grand opening specials, exclusive giveaways, and a chance to win a YETI ½ gallon rambler when you sign up for Paint Club! Plus, receive a $20 voucher to spend in-store when you sign up for Paint Club (T&Cs apply).
Enjoy a delicious BBQ, refreshing slushies, and popcorn, and let the kids enjoy free face painting. Don’t miss the opportunity to capture a special moment with the iconic life-size Dulux Dog – perfect for photos!
Whether you're a professional tradesperson or a DIY enthusiast, Inspirations Paint Cannonvale is your go-to destination for all things paint. Our knowledgeable team is ready to provide expert advice, ensuring you get the perfect finish on your next project. We pride ourselves on delivering personalised service tailored to your needs.
At Inspirations Paint, we’re here to help you bring your vision to life. Whether you're tackling a large project or just looking for a splash of colour, we're ready to assist you every step of the way.
So why not come celebrate with us and take advantage of great deals, unbeatable offers, and a family-friendly atmosphere?
For more store details and locations, visit www.porterscando.com.au.
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WHAT: Inspirations Paint Store Grand Opening Event
WHERE: Porters Mitre 10, Cannonvale
WHEN: Saturday 12 October 9am-12pm

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A Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR) member recently sought assistance with a traffic infringement notice at the Herbert River QCAR office resulting in no penalty.

Herbert River District Manager Lawrence Di Bella said Daniel Truffa sought representation and support for his employee Sebastiano Barbagallo who was in a haulout vehicle hauling cane along the Bruce Highway, south of Ingham, when the infringement occurred.

Mr Di Bella said the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) infringement was for spilled billets.

“We engaged AgForce Cane Policy Director Sam Forzisi to review the issue as no billets were spilled on to the road.”

Mr Di Bella said both Daniel Truffa and Sebastiano Barbagallo were conscientious and aware of the NVHR regulations.

“AgForce worked with QCAR on this issue with both forming the view that, after listening to Daniel’s concerns, that Daniel’s employee’s matter did not consider the full complexities of sugarcane harvesting and haulout.”

Based on additional considerations provided in the appeal to the NVHR, the penalty was withdrawn. QCAR and AgForce remind all growers and harvesting operators to ensure they take reasonable steps to be fully compliant when operating on Queensland roads.

Mr Forzisi said the NVHR had agreed to continue to work with industry to inform and educate drivers over enforcement.

“We welcome their continued support of our heavy vehicle drivers,” Mr Forzisi said.

Mr Di Bella said QCAR and AgForce would continue to liaise with the NHVR to continue to educate sugarcane industry drivers and improve their awareness of the NHVR regulations

“Growers seeking information about the NHVR and regulations can contact the QCAR Herbert River office on 0419 673 000,” Mr Di Bella said.

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QCAR member Daniel Truffa and his employee Sebastiano Barbagallo

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Filby’s Motors, an iconic local family-owned Whitsunday business celebrates its 60th anniversary this October, this incredible milestone marking 60 years of providing vehicle sales and service to the entire Whitsundays region, along with supporting the community and commerce in the region.
As a respected leader in vehicle sales, repair and parts in the Whitsunday Region, Filby’s Motors offers a diversified range of services to the mining, horticulture, broadacre, tourism and domestic markets. Filby’s Motors is committed to attaining excellence in quality management via strong customer engagement, understanding their expectations and investing in our diverse workforce to ensure their competence in providing optimum service.

Established in 1964, Filby’s Motors growth is underlined by its 60 years of experience delivering integrated vehicle solutions to valued customers. Originating as a small family business, Filby’s has continued to evolve and expand over 60 years, now employing over 30 staff. Strong emphasis is placed on technical training, along with training staff to provide ultimate customer service, with Filby’s Motors achieving several accolades in recent years for sales, branding and technician achievements across the multiple franchise brands offered.

Filby’s Motors was established by Robert (Bob) Filby Snr and his wife, Thelma, in 1964 when Toyota approached the entrepreneurs who had been running five local rural and transportation businesses in Main St, Proserpine. These included Shell Agency, John Deere Tractors, Chesney Caravans and CIG Franchise (now trading under the name of R.H.H.) and T.A. Filby together with Filby’s’ Coaches.

After 10 years the car dealership became so popular that they sold off the other enterprises – placing their focus solely on Filby’s Motors.

In 1978, the couple’s eldest son, Robert, joined the business with his wife Sue, and in 1984, their youngest son Brian was next to join the ranks. Subsequent years saw the business continue to grow, taking on additional franchises – Mitsubishi, Suzuki and Mahindra, along with a second dealership site in Bowen on 15th Dec 1997, and workshops designed to service and repair these vehicles.

Over recent years, a new generation of the Filby family have continued their family’s passion, with Joshua and Hayden Filby (Brian’s children) undertaking technician apprenticeships at the dealerships, and Rebecca, Melissa, Matthew and Blake (Robert and Sue’s children) continuing to modernise and consolidate management processes to ensure continued longevity of their family legacy.

As part of the Bowen and Proserpine communities, the Filby family, and the Filby’s Motors dealerships has weathered the unpredictable landscape of operating in North Queensland. From financial hardships caused by prices of coal, cane or tomatoes to inclement weather events and cyclones, and the destruction of the local horticulture and tourism industry this threatened.
Each time the communities work together to repair and restore, and Filby’s Motors is proud to be a part of the entire Whitsunday community – sponsoring and actively participating in community events, school projects, sporting groups and fundraisers.  
Contributing to the local community is an opportunity for Filby’s to share the loyalty shown to them, and to ensure community pride and ownership within the region. Recent sponsorship projects include the WRC Mayoral Ball, National Tree Day, local sporting teams and events, Whitsunday Catchment Landcare, school projects, local historical preservations groups, Bowen Men’s Shed, CQ Rescue, Bowen Turf Club and Paul Bowman Challenge along with 26 years as sponsor of the North Queensland Toyota Cowboys.
Filby’s Motors thanks the community of the Whitsundays for its ongoing support – and they look forward to continuing to provide you with sales, service and parts excellence for many decades to come!
filbysmotors.com.au

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The Filby’s team celebrating the mammoth 60 year milestone
Bob and Thelma, back when it all started
Historical photo of Filby’s in the post war era
Filby’s showroom as it looks today

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By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

State Election month is at full pitch, and CANEGROWERS Mackay leadership has been meeting with state electoral candidates who have shown an interest in the sugar industry, and want to learn more about the growers’ perspective.

CANEGROWERS is speaking out for growers and the sugar industry on eight points:

1. Reduce the cost of power and water to drive productivity and profitability

2. A revitalised approach to improving water quality and river health

3. Remove roadblocks to disaster preparedness

4. Commit to establishing a sustainable aviation fuel industry

5. Invest in a future agricultural workforce

6. Back our commitment to environmental responsibility

7. Fund industry research

8. Government-Industry partnership

You can read more about this plan at growthforgenerations.com.au.

CANEGROWERS is committed to working to modernise and transform Queensland’s sugarcane industry while simultaneously making the state a significant player in Australia’s bioeconomy revolution. We have worked hard in this space, we want to keep moving forward, and we need Government to back that leap forward with strong policy, legislative teeth, and practical support and partnership. The Sugar Industry Roadmap, developed collaboratively by industry stakeholders, paves a way for our future if government can get its policies right.

We need the State Government to exercise policy and strategies that preserve good quality cropping land. That means having policies that recognise that urban expansion can impact farming areas in unexpected ways, such as unduly influencing land valuations. As properties around Mackay’s periphery become more in demand for housing and lifestyle acreages, sales values increase, then create a heavy cost burden on agricultural producers. When it comes to farming, not all land is equal. The alluvial plains around the Pioneer are quality growing areas, and while that land is appealing for residential owners, it is by far some of the most productive farming land for our region’s economy. Rates are becoming a serious cost-of-production impost.

While rates are set and managed by local government, there are aspects of the system that relate to State Government. It is the Queensland Department of Resources State Valuation Service that determines the valuations on properties, which local governments then apply to determine actual rates payable.

The State Government developed the Guideline on Equity and Fairness in rating for Queensland Local Governments. It would be positive to see these made mandatory by the Queensland Government so that council’s do not take a blasé approach. CANEGROWERS Mackay has argued the case for some time that Mackay Regional Council’s Canegrowing rating category is not fair and equitable. It is double the rate for other rural properties, and akin to the rate for Paget enterprises.

If State Government can have the vision to see the sugarcane industry succeed, and continue to diversify into cane-based renewable foods, fibres and fuels, then we need to maintain productivity. Mills have a minimum threshold for viability. It’s symbiotic: retaining land under cane is critical to keeping mills viable, keeping mills viable and reliable is critical to maintaining a flourishing grower/harvester sector.

We need big picture policies put into practice, that develop and support growers to operate environmentally and economically sustainable systems, with the foresight that will see the development of a strong renewables manufacturing sector for the people of Queensland. In sugarcane, we have a sector that can contribute a great deal to meeting net-zero ambitions, and to the developing the State circular economy, profiting from and re-purposing its own waste streams.

A good example is bagasse: the fibrous pulp left from crushing out cane juice. The mills have long used it use it to generate power, fuelling the boilers. And in the case of Racecourse mill, generate and feed electricity to the grid to supply one third of the region’s power. Imagine that grid capacity multiplied across Queensland’s mills. Bagasse can also be used to create biofuels.

There is a need for increased funding around research and development. This region is brimming with innovation, agronomic and engineering capabilities that just need the support. Ideas that hit two birds with one stone, increasing productivity and simultaneously delivering outcomes for land and water management practices. Precision ag capabilities and sustainable productivity strategies need to rapidly develop to realise sugarcane’s full economic potential, generating new industries in Queensland.

It is critical in developing funding programs that we see money hit the ground, allowing agronomists to experiment with ideas, and growers to invest in technologies and methods that will assist in delivering improved sustainability and productivity in tandem.

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These days, sugarcane can deliver so much more than sugar. Good government policy and programs will see that potential become an industry powerhouse.  Photo credit: Kirili Lamb.

CANEGROWERS Mackay Kevin Borg says that it is critical for policy and funding to support increased sustainable productivity on farm

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Two of the pioneering families of Proserpine and the broader region were joined as one with the union of the Filby family and the Abell family in the mid 1950’s. This union set in motion a love story that has lasted through the decades and a legacy that has spanned generations. Robert Filby Senior married Thelma Abell, their love bringing together two powerful local families and a wealth of industry within the transport sector. This established the legacy of Filby’s Motors which opened its doors in 1964 and now lives on with their children and grandchildren to this day.

In 1981, the love story continued when Dealer Principal of Filby’s Motors, Robert Filby, married his high-school sweetheart Sue. The couple were blessed with four children and, after more than 40 years together, now enjoy watching their four grandchildren blossom as well. Robert feels very grateful to share such a long life with Sue and considers family the most important success in his life.

Leaving school at 15, Robert pursued an apprenticeship as a butcher, completing the trade before moving into the family business in 1978. Over the years Robert has gained experience in almost every aspect of the business, working in every department to gather an understanding of how each section operates and drives the business as a whole. This experience led Robert Filby to become Dealer Principal, a position he still holds to this day after 35 years of successfully leading the business.

Wearing the test of time, Robert Filby has experienced many challenges over the years, but on each occasion has been able to pivot and prevail, safely guiding the business to move with the times and adapt to changing markets. It is now a proud moment when Robert is beginning to see the next generation come forward, as his daughter Rebecca Filby steps into more of a leadership role. This cements the succession plan that will see Filby’s Motors become a three-generation business.

A family man, a man of industry and a man of community, Robert Filby prides himself on his compassion and connection with others. He loves supporting events and charities, participating in local sporting groups and watching his local community thrive. When he was in his twenties, Robert travelled the world and has fond memories of his time oversees. These days he enjoys being at home with family and loves art, model building, golf and gardening. He also loves watching both the cricket and NRL with the Cowboys being his favourite team.

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At the heart of every successful business is the person who connects the departments and brings operations together to ensure seamless flow, quality workmanship and precision delivery. At Filby’s Motors, that person is Brian Filby, who not only unites the team but also connects the business with the broader community when opportunity arises.

As a Director of the company and Parts Manager, Brian is a qualified Mechanic and Parts Interpreter. He is the fountain of knowledge for every pipe, fitting, screw and engine part any of their vehicles may need when it’s time for a service. Wherever possible, he engages with the local community, opting to spend money within the region and keep the dollars flowing within the Whitsundays.

It is this community spirit that makes him a well-respected individual and he is well-known for supporting the local causes that can often fly under the radar. He is a strong proponent of supporting aged care and support related services, as he feels these community groups are often overlooked.

Born in Proserpine, Brian has lived in Cannonvale for the last 58 years. In his youth, he was a keen sportsperson, even travelling overseas to play sport. He has three adult children and two lively dogs that keep him entertained. When he enjoys a moment of relaxation, Brian can be found out in the garden or taking the dogs down to the beach.

Describing himself as quiet, patient and fair, Brian recalls one of the most significant times of his life as the day each of his three children were born. He dreams of one day going on holiday to a location he has never been to before and says his favourite movie is ‘The Choice’.
 

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Born in Proserpine in December 1982 and raised in Cannonvale, Rebecca Filby’s roots run deep in the Whitsundays Region. After a brief stint in Townsville at 18, she returned home and has lived across the region—from Cannonvale to Jubilee Pocket, Airlie Beach to Bowen—before settling in Proserpine for the past eight years.

Family is at the heart of Rebecca’s life. Married to Joel Altmann for five years and together for nine, they share two boys, Eric, 7, and Dylan, 4. Their family wouldn’t be complete without their two dogs, Callie, 13, and Benji, 10, who were Rebecca’s ‘first children’. Weekends are often spent travelling, enjoying family vacations at caravan parks, and creating lasting memories with their sons.

Rebecca’s career journey is marked by diversity and success. She began in the Jewellery Industry in 2002, where she quickly distinguished herself, owning a jewellery business and becoming a Diamond Broker by age 24. After nine years in the industry, she transitioned to banking, starting as a Teller with Westpac in Proserpine before advancing to Personal Banker in 2012. Her career continued to rise when she became the Bank Manager in Bowen in 2014, a role she held for four years.

In 2018, Rebecca pivoted to join the family business, a move that allowed her to blend her professional expertise with her passion for family. She started as Financial Controller, progressed to Sales Manager in 2021, and was promoted to General Manager in 2022. Along the way, Rebecca earned a Sales Licence, Motor Dealer Licence, completed Toyota’s two-year Future Dealer Leaders Program, and obtained an Advanced Diploma of Leadership & Management from the Australian Institute of Management (AIM).

Balancing her career with motherhood has been Rebecca’s greatest challenge and most significant accomplishment. She is determined to inspire her sons by exemplifying that success at work can coexist with a fulfilling family life.

Describing herself as outspoken and detail-oriented, Rebecca embodies resilience, dedication, and love in everything she does.

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We are indeed fortunate that for the first thirty or forty years of settlement, some excellent photographers lived in our district. They have left us with photographic records of weddings, picnics and important events from the past, for example, opening of the railway, Shepherd’s Bridge and original hospital, as well as members of the first council, show society, band, churches and so on.
One of the most historic photos was taken by Walter Eustace Perroux in 1911 of a group of pioneers.  Perroux, born of Indian parents who were tea and rubber planters, came to Australia in 1879. He worked in Mackay at Swanson Bros, a business he eventually purchased; travelled widely throughout North and Central Qld and then finally settled in Bowen where he never missed an opportunity to publicise the town in photographic views and newspaper articles. During WW1, he photographed many local families and events.
Unfortunately, he was thrown from a sulky, broke his arm and never really recovered from his injuries. He died in 1921, leaving a wife, four sons and 2 daughters. One of his sons, Francis Xavier Perroux, followed in his father’s footsteps and worked in a studio in Townsville. He too became a roving photographer and settled in Mackay. Like his father, he also had connections with Proserpine. A daughter, Henrietta Rosalie, taught at Foxdale School 1917-1918 and she married Joseph Atkinson.
Edmund Nicholas, an employee of Faust Brothers, came to Australia from New Zealand at any early age. He lived in what was often considered the oldest home in Proserpine, “Woodbine”, on Anzac Road. A gifted photographer, he advertised in the 1911 “Guardian” that he would be pleased to take photographs of weddings, cane cutters etcetera, anywhere in the district and it was reported that he took magnificent photos of the tramway with flood debris piled up against the bridge, and appealing views of Myrtle Creek. Perhaps it was his interest in taking photos “anywhere in the district” that almost saw him lost in the vicinity of the old river landing. A search party set out to find him but luckily, when daylight dawned, he found his bearings and made his way home safely. He sold his business to Ralph Traill in 1915. Edmund Nicholas died in 1937 after residing in Proserpine for 28 years.
An itinerant photographer, Mr C. Buderus, also advertised in the 1911 “Guardian” that he would be in Proserpine “at Champion’s shop for a month, and people should not lose time in taking advantage of this opportunity to have their photos taken.” He had good local opposition!
Born in 1891, Percy Henry Cox worked delivering groceries for Fausts Brothers when they started business in 1910. Entirely self-taught, he was a first-class photographer teaching himself the Box Brownie camera; a camera whose film could be taken out after shooting and developed at home thus popularising photography.
In 1925, he opened a studio in Chapman Street and announced a special concession week when every purchaser of a dozen cabinets would be given an Ivorette medallion. A particularly important historical photo taken by Percy was that of the Bowen wharves during the 1928 strike. An advertisement in the “Proserpine Guardian” of December 8 1928, indicates that by this time he had moved to Bowen as it states, “H.P. COX Photographer will visit Proserpine periodically.” Percy Cox died in Bowen in 1979 and after his death his photographic equipment was given to the Bowen Historical Society.
I have an old, careworn album of photographs, of histories
Family generations down the years …
Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Society Museum

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1928 Sugar strike. Photo taken by Percy Cox
Perroux photo of pioneers

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