Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Just months after its launch, the Government’s Tourism Support Hub has surpassed 100 enquiries, marking an early milestone in its broader plan to reshape the state’s tourism future. Developed under Queensland’s Destination 2045 initiative, the Tourism Support Hub has already drawn strong interest from Regional Tourism Organisations across the state, fielding enquiries spanning business development, agritourism, cultural tourism, national park permits and disaster recovery. Chief Executive Officer of Tourism Whitsundays, Mr Tim Booth, has welcomed the initiative, saying the Tourism Support Hub will make a meaningful difference to how small and regional businesses operate. “It can be quite difficult for small businesses to navigate government processes whilst they are busy running their business that they are passionate about and the whole reason they are working in the tourism space,” he said. “Any tools and ways that the government can assist small businesses navigate permits or applying for grants to grow their businesses is only going to help and we encourage our businesses to take use of this service to minimise time wastage and maximise their time in their business.” Once submitted, each Tourism Support Hub enquiry is paired with a dedicated tourism support officer who offers step-by-step guidance and tailored solutions for more complex issues. Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said support from the State Government to assist tourism operators is always appreciated. “The Tourism Hub is a dedicated portal, making it a simple process to contact Government about many issues as well as grant opportunities,” she said. Mr Booth said he has seen firsthand that many small businesses across the Whitsunday Shire are seeking greater support navigating permits and grants, typically managed at a State Government level, with approvals for National Parks and Marine Parks consistently posing a major challenge for operators. “We know the State Government is continuing to work on this [Permits across National Parks and Marine Parks] and this service is one of the ways they are helping businesses navigate this process,” he said. “Having assistance available to maximise businesses across Queensland to be able to apply is beneficial to all regions.” Chief Executive Officer of Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Dr Julia Evans, said there’s a strong, ongoing need for support agencies like the Tourism Support Hub in regional areas. “Regional businesses often operate with fewer resources while navigating complex regulations, workforce challenges, and higher operating costs,” she said. “Support that helps cut through red tape, streamline compliance, and provide access to trusted, high-quality business advice is not just valued — it’s essential. It enables businesses to focus on growth, adapt to changing conditions, and continue contributing to strong, resilient regional economies.” Dr Evans said it is clear local businesses are contending with a mix of immediate pressures and long-standing structural challenges, now increasingly amplified. At a practical level, rising fuel costs and reduced aviation access are impacting visitor numbers, freight and the overall cost of doing business. Beyond these immediate pressures, she noted the challenges closely reflect the broader priorities outlined in the Chamber’s Ten Point Plan. “Businesses continue to navigate red tape and regulatory complexity, which can slow recovery and limit the ability to adapt quickly in changing conditions and delivering service excellence and maintaining a strong visitor experience is becoming more challenging as cost pressures rise, while collaboration across the business community is more important than ever to share knowledge, build capability, and support the next generation of operators,” she said. “In short, the Whitsundays business community is not facing a single issue — they are managing a complex environment where cost pressures, access, workforce, infrastructure, and confidence all intersect. Addressing these challenges requires coordinated action across all levels of government, with a clear focus on regional conditions and opportunities.” Tourism operators can find more information on the Tourism Support Hub at www.qld.gov.au/tourismsupporthub, or contact the team directly on 07 3101 2002 or via email at tourismsupporthub@detsi.qld.gov.au. Whitsundays Island Qld Australia Drone Stock Photo 2297262913 | Shutterstock CAPTION: Whitsunday tourism operators have welcomed the Government’s Tourism Support Hub initiative. Photo source: Shutterstock
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Next week, we bring our region together for one of the most important conversations we have each year — our State of the Region. And this year, the message is simple. We need to think big. The Whitsundays is not standing still. We’re growing and we are growing fast. More people, more visitors, more investment, and more opportunity than we’ve seen in a long time. The question isn’t whether growth is coming. It’s whether we’re ready to make the most of it. That’s exactly what State of the Region is about. On Friday 8 May at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, we’ll hear from leaders across government, industry and sport. People who understand what it takes to step up, perform under pressure, and seize opportunity. We’ve locked in an outstanding line-up including Dominique Lamb talking about the Brisbane 2032 Olympic opportunity, alongside an Olympic and Paralympic panel featuring Cate Campbell, Cedric Dubler, Al Vinney and Sam Tait. These are people who know what “thinking big” actually looks like and more importantly, what it takes to deliver it. But this isn’t just about hearing from others. It’s about what it means for us. From our infrastructure pipeline and tourism growth, to housing, workforce and investment, we’ll be putting a clear focus on where the Whitsundays is heading and what needs to happen next. Because the opportunities in front of us are real. Brisbane 2032 is not just a Brisbane story. It’s a regional Queensland story and the Whitsundays has a genuine role to play if we position ourselves early and back it in. That means backing local business, backing our young people and backing investment by making smart decisions now that set us up for the long term. This event is about bringing all of that together, business, community and government, and getting on the same page. If you care about where this region is heading, you should be in the room. Because the future of the Whitsundays isn’t something that just happens. It’s something we build together.
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Home Brewitt is a locally owned home brewing supply store based in Proserpine, proudly servicing the Whitsundays and shipping Queensland-wide. Established in November 2023, the business was created with one clear goal — to build a welcoming space where people can learn, experiment and connect through the craft of brewing. Home Brewitt supplies everything from beginner starter kits to advanced all-grain brewing systems and kegerators. Customers will find a wide range of fresh wort kits, grains, hops, yeast, cider and essences, along with personalised advice and ongoing support. Whether it’s a first brew or a refined competition recipe, we’re here to offer support and supply the quality ingredients and equipment needed for great results. In recent years, more people have turned to home brewing as commercial prices rise and interest in craft-style beer grows. Customers are looking for better quality ingredients, more flavour control and the satisfaction of creating something themselves. Education and community have become just as important as the product — and that’s where Home Brewitt stands out. Like many regional businesses, cost of freight can be challenging. As business owners, our philosophy is simple: listen more than you talk, build relationships rather than just transactions, and never stop learning and adapting. These principles guide how we serve our customers and support our local community. Being part of the local Chamber of Commerce provides valuable connections and opportunities to collaborate with other businesses. Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry
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For the past nine years, your locally owned and operated Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine has proudly supported local not-for-profits, sporting clubs and community initiatives – returning more than $264,000 back into the Whitsundays. And we’re only just getting started. 2026 is shaping up to be one of our biggest years yet. From backing major regional events to supporting grassroots groups and school communities, we’re passionate about investing where it matters most – right here at home. If you’ve seen our fully equipped Community BBQ Trailer firing up at weekend events, you’ve already seen that support in action. “Our profit-with-purpose model means the more our community banks with us, the more we can reinvest,” says Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine Chairman Mark Henry. “It’s a cycle of support – when you back us, we back you.” Here’s where you’ll see us next We’re proud to support a packed calendar of events across the region, including: Queensland Dirt Track and Track Championships (2–4 May) Show Whitsunday and Cane Exhibit and Awards (19 June) Proserpine Community Markets (July, September, and December) Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival (24–26 July) Great Barrier Reef Festival Arts Exhibition – People’s Choice Award (31 July–3 August) Eco Barge Clean Seas Fundraiser at Flametree Festival (29 August) Whitsunday Business Conference (27 August) Whitsunday Writers Festival (13 September) Whitsunday Trail Fest Kids Beach Bash (13 September) Paul Bowman Carnival – U9s Rugby League (19–20 September) Whitsunday Moto Sport Queensland State Cup (26 September) Whitsunday Junior Rugby Union Viking Cup 10s (1–3 October) Cannonvalley Pony Club 40 Year Celebration Whitsunday Allstars Future Stars Program Fundraiser And that’s alongside our continued, year-round support of the many sporting and community groups that form the heart of our region. Need Funding or the Community BBQ Trailer? Apply Now! Sponsorship applications are now open for local events and initiatives – including bookings for our popular BBQ Community Trailer. With limited funding and high demand, make sure your application shines. Get started by contacting our Board Secretariat at secretary@whitsundaycel.com.au Your Town. Your Bank. Everything You Need. Feel good about where your money goes. Every account, loan or service with us helps build a stronger local community. Visit Branch Manager Amanda and the team at Whitsunday Plaza Cannonvale. We’re open Monday to Friday, 9:30am–4:00pm (closed 1:00–2:00pm) Or call us on (07) 4948 3599 or email cannonvale&proserpinemailbox@bendigoadelaide.com.au Bendigo Bank – The better big bank
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It has been a big few weeks for Bowen, with our community well and truly kicking goals on both the agriculture and tourism fronts. Two very different but equally important parts of our economy have been in the spotlight and both have done us proud.
Last weekend I attended the Bowen Gumlu Growers Gala Dinner and Awards, a fantastic celebration of the people who drive our agriculture industry.
It was a great opportunity to spend time with many of our Whitsunday region’s leading growers, and to hear from special guests including Assistant Minister for Primary Industries and Water, Sean Dillon MP, and the evening’s MC and guest speaker, Shane Webcke.
The awards were a highlight, recognising outstanding contributions across the industry. A special mention to Leanne Born, who received the Lifetime Recognition Award.
Congratulations to all the winners and finalists. Your dedication, innovation and resilience keep our industry strong and ensure Bowen and the Whitsundays remain leaders in agriculture.
It was also exciting to hear from BGGA CEO Jenn Honnery about the association’s evolution, including the launch of their refreshed brand, North Queensland Farmers which is an exciting step forward.
On the tourism front, I am equally proud to share that Bowen was named Visitor Information Centre of the Year in the Local Tourism Organisation category at the annual Queensland Information Centres Association conference recently.
This recognition is all about the incredible team of staff and volunteers who make the Bowen Visitor Information Centre such a welcoming place for visitors.
They are the friendly faces who greet travellers, share their knowledge, and showcase everything our region has to offer. Their passion and pride for Bowen and the Whitsundays shines through every day whether it be pointing visitors to our stunning beaches or sharing our rich history and community spirit.
With both agriculture and tourism recognised over the past week, it’s clear Bowen is kicking goals right across the board.
These achievements highlight the strength, diversity and resilience of our industries and the dedication of the people who make it all possible.
Most importantly, they show how Bowen is playing its part in making the Whitsunday region a great place to invest, live, work and visit.
As part of Bendigo Bank — Australia’s most trusted bank — Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine delivers the products, technology and security of a big bank while staying true to what matters most: personalised service and reinvesting profits back into our community.
Unlike many financial institutions, we are independently owned and operated with one clear mission — to support the Whitsundays. Over the past seven years, we’ve proudly contributed more than $249,000 into local schools, social programs, sporting clubs, arts and culture, conservation initiatives and community prizes.
Local Banking, Full Service
Led by Branch Manager Amanda Anderson, our branch offers the full suite of personal, business and wealth services. We’re open Monday to Friday, 9:30am–4:00pm (closed 1:00–2:00pm), with face-to-face service from experienced lenders and bankers who understand local needs.
Our services include:
Meet Our New Team Members
The Cannonvale–Proserpine branch recently welcomed two new faces, both proud locals with deep roots in the Whitsundays.
Jade, Customer Service Officer, shared:
“I grew up here in the Whitsundays and went through the Proserpine schools, so this region will always be home. After nine years living and working in New South Wales, I returned at the end of 2023 because I missed the sense of community, the familiar faces and the lifestyle you can only find here. Working with Bendigo Bank gives me the chance to be more involved in our community, and I’m proud knowing my work makes a difference right here at home.”
Kylie, Customer Relationship Officer, added:
“I feel blessed to be a fifth-generation local and to have grown up in such a beautiful part of the world. After living in England, Switzerland and most recently Moranbah, nothing compares to being back in the Whitsundays raising my three children. What I love about working with the Community Bank is knowing we genuinely support locals — it makes every day at work more rewarding.”
Backing Local Business
Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine is also passionate about supporting local enterprise. We’re proud to provide dedicated business banking expertise through Luke Sheppard, Senior Business Relationship Manager for North Central Queensland and Cairns, who regularly visits Cannonvale and Airlie Beach to meet with business owners face-to-face.
In 2025, we sponsored the Whitsunday Business Conference, hosting more than 70 companies, and we are honoured to be the Principal Partner of the 2025 Whitsunday Business Awards — celebrating the innovation, excellence and resilience of the region’s business community.
Your Town. Your Bank.
When you bank with us, you’re helping build a stronger Whitsundays.
Visit Amanda and the team at Whitsunday Plaza Cannonvale
Call (07) 4948 3599
Email cannonvale&proserpinemailbox@bendigoadelaide.com.au
Bendigo Bank – the better big bank.
L-R: Jade, Branch Manager Amanda, Natasha, and Kylie. Photo credit: Danile Heggie/Mackay and Whitsunday Life
When it comes to recycling, keeping it loose makes all the difference. Bagged recycling can’t be properly sorted at recycling facilities; in fact, it can damage the sorting equipment and can sometimes mean the whole load is sent straight to landfill.
By placing your hard plastics, steel, aluminium, glass, paper and cardboard loose in the yellow bin, you’re helping make sure these items get recycled into useful new products, like park benches and planter boxes.
Keeping your recycling loose is a simple step that has a big impact. For more information, search for Let’s Get it Sorted on Council’s website.
Tourism Whitsundays is proud to showcase local operators leading by example in environmental responsibility, proving that world-class experiences and conservation go hand in hand.
Over at Daydream Island Resort and Living Reef, the Living Reef team is literally growing the future. Their coral restoration program sees new life planted into Lovers Cove, where guests can snorkel among thriving reefs they've helped create.
Wings Sailing Charters has earned Advanced Eco certification, ensuring every sailing adventure has minimal environment impact, while Portland Roads has gone above and beyond with Advanced Ecotourism, Climate Action Business and Carbon Positive certifications, plus Recognition of Culture certification.
The sustainability story extends beyond the water. Zambrero is tackling food waste with Biopak packaging and their incredible Plate 4 Plate program – every meal sold triggers a donation to vulnerable communities through Foodbank Australia and Rise Against Hunger. They're also supporting Love Mercy's Cents for Seeds Project.
Waterview Airlie Beach contributes to Soap Aid, recycling discarded hotel soap into hygiene bars for communities in need, while Magnums Accommodation makes an impact through recycling stations, energy-efficient lighting and promoting eco-conscious tours.
These initiatives show that protecting our stunning region while creating unforgettable experiences isn’t just possible, it’s happening right here in our community.
Contributed with thanks to Rosanagh Gallivan, PR & Social Media Manager, Tourism Whitsundays
The Living Reef Team have been out and about surveying the Daydream Island reefs. Photo supplied
Tec-NQ House grade 11 boarding student Caleb has his sights set firmly on the automotive trade, splitting his week between the classroom, paid work, and hands-on experience at the Townsville Audi and Porsche dealership just down the road from Tec-NQ House boarding campus.
“I got to work on a timing belt,” said Caleb. “Each day I went to work experience, I walked because it was just up the road.”
Time in a prestigious workshop has given him confidence and clarity. “I get to help the workers in the workshop,” he commented. “Watching how they fix problems has shown me what the job is really like.”
Caleb isn’t waiting around for opportunity to knock. He’s stacking experience wherever he can, working part-time. “I also have a job at Dan’s Automotive,” said Caleb. “When I’m not doing work experience or school, I work there, where I am learning a lot.”
Head of Boarding, Luke Papworth, says Caleb’s initiative is exactly what Tec-NQ House is designed to encourage. “Caleb is taking every chance to learn; he’s balancing school, work experience, and a real job. That work ethic is what sets our students up for apprenticeships,” Luke said.
He also points to the advantage of transport and flexible staff support. “Transport is provided to the Tec-NQ Douglas co-educational campus each day, and students are driven to and from their workplaces as required,” said Luke. "That means students can get to placements, arrive on time, and focus on learning rather than logistics,” added Luke.
As a boarder, Caleb benefits from a supportive home base in Townsville. Tec-NQ House is a purpose-built boys-only boarding facility in Rosslea, providing accommodation for up to forty senior students from regional and remote Queensland so they can access Tec-NQ’s trade-focused senior school program.
The residence blends structure with a warm, homely feel. Students have 24/7 supervised care, air-conditioned double-occupancy rooms, modern communal lounges, computer access, a secure outdoor recreation area with BBQ facilities, and a basketball court.
Daily routines make success easier. An on-site professional chef prepares nutritious meals, staff run after-hours sport and social activities, and regular excursions build friendships.
“Boarding gives students independence with a safety net,” said Luke. “We set expectations around study, wellbeing and behaviour, and we’re right there to guide them. The result is young people who are ready for the workplace.”
That workplace-ready mindset is exactly what Caleb is building. He’s learning to communicate with tradespeople, follow procedures, and take pride in doing the small things right: clean tools, tidy bays, and careful checks before a car leaves the workshop. Each shift adds to his confidence.
Caleb’s next goal is clear: secure an automotive apprenticeship and keep learning on the tools. With Tec-NQ House providing structure, support and proximity to employers, and with the combination of work experience, paid work and school learning under his belt, he’s well on the way.
Keep up the great work, Caleb; your future is idling at the lights, and you’ve already got the green.
Automotive trade experience. Photo supplied.
Caleb at Tech NQ's common area. Photo supplied.
The Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre officially opened their Food Bank on Monday 1st September, a project that has been in the works for the last 12 months.
The Food Bank, funded by the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre’s op shop and sponsorship by North Queensland Bulk Ports and the Whitsunday Regional Council, is open Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 9am – 11am.
Executive Officer of the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre Rebecca Woods said she anticipates more products to come in that will extend their range of products.
“We are going to keep adding more, and a lot of it will be your staple items. Including, your basic pasta, rice, milk, breads, and breakfast cereals,” she said
“There will also be products for babies, children, as well as groceries such as fruit and veg, yoghurts, meat and fish.”
With the new Food Bank open, Rebecca hopes they will be able to serve and cater to more people in the community.
“We have had this idea since around August of last year, to grow our pantry that we have had for over a decade into a proper food bank and be able to cater to more people in our community,” she said.
“We wanted to be able to provide more low-cost groceries to our community as well, and also to preserve the dignity and being able to pay your own way.
“There's a lot of people who want to pay their own way but they just don't have the budget to stretch as far.”
At the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre foodbank everything is either around a third of retail price at supermarkets or free, thanks to donations.
Rebecca Woods and Marina McMullen at the new Food Bank. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
In a powerful demonstration of community compassion, the Bowen Community Centre, led by Sally Roberts with support from Lauren Miller and Alison Byde of Abbot Point Operations, served 443 hot dogs to locals during a recent outreach event aimed at supporting people experiencing homelessness.
The event, on Tuesday 26 August, was made possible through the generous donation of produce by Andrew, manager of Woolworths, along with the enthusiastic participation of local businesses and schools. Each hot dog purchased helped fund backpacks, swags, and tents for vulnerable members of the Bowen community.
“This issue brings light to what I see every day,” said Sally Roberts, the Community Connect worker.
“Currently, 33 registered homeless individuals rely on our services. The need is urgent and growing.”
So far this year, Sally has raised approximately $2,500 to support essential programs. However, the lack of crisis accommodation remains a pressing concern.
“It’s heartbreaking,” said Stephanie, Executive Officer of the Centre. “We simply don’t have the facilities to house our homeless community. Offering a tent or backpack may seem inadequate, but it’s the only help we can provide.”
Kelly from Hillery Group added, “It’s a great cause, and we’re thrilled to have been part of it and to support the community.”
The Bowen Community Centre thanked the following organisations for contributing to the success of the event: Lowcocks Builders, Bowen Childcare, Hillery Group, Bowen Industrial Hire, Queens Beach State School, Rocks on Rock, Abbot Point Operations, Flexi School, Idea Placements, Uniting Church, Kylie’s Dental, and St Mary’s School.
The Centre offers a range of support services, including:
• Soup kitchen
• Food bank
• Shower facilities
• Laundry access
If you know someone experiencing homelessness, please contact the Homeless Hotline on 1800 474 753. When in doubt, refer them to the Bowen Community Centre—where help and connection to the right services are always available.
Paddy may only be six months old, but this Bull Arab-x pup already has a heart full of love to give. Rescued from the pound alongside his brother, Paddy now finds himself on his own for the first time after his brother was adopted. While he’s still adjusting, this sweet boy is eager to find a forever family to call his own.
If ever there was a dog who deserves a happily-ever-after, it’s Paddy. With his gentle nature and playful spirit, he’s the perfect mix of sunshine and snuggles — happy to soak up the sun, play with his doggy pals, or simply enjoy human company.
What makes Paddy so special?
Paddy has already shown he has all the makings of a loyal and loving companion. Now, all he needs is someone willing to open their heart and home to him. Could that someone be you?
Email Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc. now at Bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com.
If there are two things every good tradie loves, it’s a bacon-and-egg brekkie and a yarn over a hot coffee. That’s exactly what’s on the menu when Porters Mitre 10 Whitsunday hosts the next Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry Pop Up Chamber on Friday 12 September from 9am to 11am.
This free, drop-in event is all about bringing the Whitsundays business community together – no speeches, no fuss, just great food, fresh coffee from McMoon Coffee Van, a StarFM outdoor broadcast, and a chance to win raffle prizes. Whether you’re a tradie on the go, a small business owner, or just keen to check in with the Chamber team, this is your chance to catch up, connect, and have your say.
Porters Mitre 10 Whitsunday is the perfect host. Since opening its Cannonvale store in 2002, the business has been keeping locals stocked with everything from nuts and bolts to full-scale building materials. Part of the Mitre 10 family since 2017, Porters is still proudly family-owned after more than 140 years. With its specialist paint store, Inspirations Paint Cannonvale, now open inside the store, it’s become a true one-stop shop for the region’s trades, DIY projects, and weekend warriors.
The Pop Up Chamber is open to everyone so bring your work crew, grab a coffee, and enjoy a BBQ brekkie on the house. Stick around for a chance to win some top prizes and meet other business owners who are shaping the Whitsundays.
What: Pop Up Chamber BBQ Brekkie, coffee, and prize draw
When: 9am–11am, Friday 12 September 2025
Where: Porters Mitre 10 Whitsunday, 2 Carlo Drive, Cannonvale
The Whitsunday Business Conference held at TAFE Queensland Cannonvale Campus last Thursday, was a huge success.
Chamber President Allan Milostic said the event was sold out and feedback was outstanding.
“This year’s Conference was a sell-out, with 120 registrations representing 70 organisations across the Whitsundays. Feedback has been outstanding – more than 75% of attendees told us they loved the day, and everyone has walked away with actionable ideas to implement straight away,” he said.
“Delegates also reported stronger connections, fresh insights, and practical tips to improve efficiency and productivity.
“There’s clear support for making this an annual event, and we encourage businesses wanting to be part of the 2026 Conference to get in touch with the Chamber.”
Chamber President Allan Milostic also said the aim of the conference was simple; to provide a regular focal point for the Whitsundays business community and a chance to come together, learn from each other, and tackle the opportunities that lie ahead.
“The idea for the conference started pre-covid with the, then, Proserpine Chamber of Commerce. We returned to the idea in 2024 with the inaugural event held May 2024 with just over 55 people. The feedback we received was overwhelmingly positive, and it helped shape the program you’ll experience today. This year’s conference is truly a step forward, built by locals, for locals,” he said at the conference.
“I’d like to sincerely thank our sponsors, without whom this event would not be possible: Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine, Tassal, Shiift, My Pathway, the Greater Whitsunday Regional Jobs Committee, Mackay and Whitsunday Life, and TAFE Queensland. Your partnership over the 2024 and 2025 conferences has been critical in bringing this vision to life.
“Of course, events like this don’t happen without a lot of work behind the scenes. Our Conference Committee, chaired by Megan Taylor, has worked tirelessly alongside Jannah Baker of Scallywag Fabrication, Julia Wheway of TAFE Queensland, and Dr Julia Evans, our Chamber Liaison. Together with the support of our incredible volunteers, they’ve turned an idea into a program that’s ready to inspire and deliver value to every delegate here today. A big thank you to all of them.”
See more social pics here: https://tinyurl.com/2dghrcuk
Hello everyone!
After an incredible five weeks exploring the Northern Territory and Western Australia, Ruth2Reef is back!
There were so many unforgettable moments on my travels, but one that truly stands out was swimming with humpback whales on the Ningaloo Reef. I joined an eco tour and was lucky enough to get so close that one almost brushed me with its pectoral fin!
I’m excited to share stories, travel tips, and insights from my journey, along with the inspiring environmental initiatives I discovered on that side of the country.
In this weeks very exciting edition we have more on humpback whales, maori wrasse's, and the wonderful whale sharks!
Happy Reading!
Ruth
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The humpback whales have arrived to the Whitsundays on mass and the breeding season has begun.
A female who wants to mate will slap her pectoral fins on the surface and make a trumpeting noise to signal to the males.
Males in the Whitsundays are often in pods of 2 - 4 males. If they hear a female signaling, they will move very fast in her direction. Often multiple groups can be seen moving towards her at speed.
Once the males reach the female, they will chase her demonstrating their fitness and endurance, trying to be the fastest, the best singer and the most acrobatic. Their song lasts 30 minutes, but will repeat it over and over to show their fitness. They perform large breaches landing on their backs to appear bigger and gain attention. They will try to outrun the other males. They can be aggressive to other males below the surface and tail slap on the surface to try to warn the others off.
This is a heat run and can last over 24 hours.
One a female has selected a male they will swim together and move in motions like diving and rolling that resemble a playful courtship. It’s very gentle and tactile with the male gently caressing the female with his pectoral fins. It’s still up to the female if she actually mates with the male.
Once pregnant the female will return to the feeding ground to gain body condition. The male will remain in the breeding ground looking for other mating opportunities.
Whales are now being spotted on most boat tours, ferry trips and mainland vantage points and from balconies on islands like Hamilton Island.
To see photos and videos of recent sightings go to the Whales of the Whitsundays Facebook group.
Contributed by Kellie Leonard - Master Reef Guide/Whales of the Whitsundays
Photo credit: Glen Bradford
There is no doubt, the Maori Wrasse (Cheilinus undulatus), is one of the most popular fish on the Great Barrier Reef. And for good reason.
It is renowned for its large size, striking colours and friendly personality. An encounter with a Maori Wrasse will make your day.
Maori Wrasse are so named for their distinct facial markings which resemble those seen on traditional Maori warriors in New Zealand. The males are most easily identified by their large size and large, prominent hump on its forehead.
This hump contains an air and oil combination which acts in part as a flotation device which counteracts the weight of their pronounced jaw.
A male Maori Wrasse can live up to 25 years, grow up to an impressive 2.3m and weigh up to 190kg.
The female Maori Wrasse normally grows to around 1m and can live up to 32 years of age, yet they have a very slow breeding rate as they do not mature until they are around 4 to 6 years old.
The Maori Wrasse are protogynous hermaphrodites: That basically means that most Maori Wrasse start life as a female but transform into a male at a specific point in their lifecycle.
Maori Wrasse have a varied diet of small fish, crustaceans and marine invertebrates. They have a noteworthy set of teeth known as “protractile” teeth, which means they can project outwards to better catch passing prey. The Maori Wrasse have very strong jaws that they use to crush shells, and they have even adopted the method of banging shells on rocks to crack the shells. They are also known for being one of the few predators of the sharp-spined, toxic crown-of-thorns starfish, which helps protect the Reef from this prodigious coral eater.
Due to past hunting pressure, the Maori Wrasse is a fully protected species on the Great Barrier Reef as they are a highly endangered species.
Contributed by Whitsunday Conservation Council.
Queensland is one of the few places on Earth where the extraordinary platypus can still be spotted in the wild. With its iconic duck-like bill, dense waterproof fur, and venomous spurs on its ankles, this enigmatic mammal is a living relic, one of the most evolutionarily distinct creatures on the planet. Yet, for all its unique adaptations, the platypus is highly vulnerable to environmental changes.
Once widespread across Eastern Australia, populations have been steadily declining, particularly in the Murray-Darling Basin. The catastrophic 2019–2020 bushfires wiped out thousands of animals along the East Coast, leaving rivers choked with ash and debris. These waterways, vital for hunting and shelter, became treacherous for platypus and other aquatic species.
Highly sensitive to their surroundings, platypus require clean rivers and secure burrows along riverbanks to feed, breed, and shelter. Alarmingly, research from the University of New South Wales shows that suitable platypus habitat has decreased by 22 per cent over the past 30 years.
Each decline is a stark reminder of how fragile Australia’s ecosystems are. Protecting waterways, restoring habitats, and raising awareness are vital to ensuring that this evolutionary marvel, continues to thrive in its ancestral home.
Fun Fact: Platypuses are smaller than you might think: males are around 50 cm long and weigh 1.5 kg, while females are usually 40 cm long and 1 kg.
A wild Platypus in Eungella National Park. Photo Credit: Ruth Puddefoot.
In the quiet backstreets of Jubilee Pocket, just minutes from the bustle of Airlie Beach, a grassroots movement is working tirelessly to keep the Whitsundays pristine. At Eco Barge HQ, visitors are invited to step inside the world of marine conservation and witness how one community is safeguarding the Great Barrier Reef.
The Eco HQ Experience Tour, held every Tuesday morning, offers more than a window into conservation; it immerses participants in the frontline of environmental action. Over 90 minutes, visitors trace the journey of discarded plastics and marine debris. Inside the Ocean Trash Recycle Shack, individuals are shown how bottles, ropes and fragments of plastic are transformed into new creations, from jewellery to artwork, and you can be at the heart of the action.
The tour also introduces visitors to the Whitsunday Turtle Rescue Centre, where sick and injured turtles are treated before being released back into the wild. While sightings depend on the condition of the patients in care, the story of each turtle offers a stark reminder of the threats facing marine life.
Eco Barge founder Libby Edge says the experience is about connection as much as education.
“What we’re doing at Eco HQ is incredible – from protecting our islands from marine debris to caring for sick and injured turtles. I wanted to open our doors so visitors and locals can see behind the scenes, learn about our programs, and discover just how much difference a community can make.” – Libby Edge, Founder, Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc.
Set against the backdrop of the Great Barrier Reef, Eco HQ is more than an education centre; it is a call to action. By the end of the tour, visitors leave not only with knowledge, but with the understanding that every choice, every bottle, every bag carries weight in the ocean.
Book your tour today by heading to the Eco Barge Clean Sea’s website: https://www.ecobargecleanseas.org.au/tours/
What: Eco Barge Clean Seas Experience Tour
Where: Eco Barge HQ, Boatyard Rd, Jubilee Pocket, QLD
When: Every Tuesday at 10am (1.5 hours)
Price: $30 Adult | $20 Child
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