Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Makayla Groves and Bianca O'Brien are part of the commercial property team at Blacks Real Estate, supporting landlords, tenants and business owners across the Mackay region. Working as Commercial Property Managers, Makayla and Bianca assist with the day-to-day management of commercial properties, helping clients navigate leasing and property management requirements across retail, office and industrial spaces. Based at the agency’s Wood Street office, the pair work closely with business clients throughout the region as part of Blacks Real Estate’s commercial division. Makayla Groves can be contacted on 07 4963 2522, while Bianca O’Brien can be contacted on 07 4963 2525. CAPTION: Bianca O'Brien works with Blacks Real Estate as a Commercial Property Manager. Photo supplied Makayla Groves works as a Commercial Property Manager with Blacks Real Estate. Photo supplied
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Visitors to Gooseponds Park can expect improved access and connectivity, with major upgrade works set to begin on a replacement pedestrian bridge, new fencing and a renewed shared pathway. The project, to be delivered by D&M Composites Pty Ltd, will include replacing the existing footpath between Valley and Hicks streets with a widened 2.5-metre shared pathway, enhancing links to the popular Gooseponds circuit. Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the project is another example of the Queensland Government delivering for the state and supporting important upgrades for the community. “That’s why we made Works for Queensland funding permanent, to back local councils with the funding they need to deliver vital projects like this for their communities.” A new bridge, parallel to Malcomson Street, will be constructed one-metre higher than the existing bridge to provide increased flood immunity. The existing bridge will remain in place while the new one is constructed directly behind it. Some short traffic delays are expected on Malcomson Street. Traffic control will be in place. Pedestrians can detour via Glenpark and Meadow streets while the work is completed. New fencing will be installed and 23 new trees will be planted along Hicks Street. Work is due to take place between mid-June and late September, weather permitting. Mackay Regional Council have said they apologise for any inconvenience caused by the works and appreciate the community’s patience and understanding. Jointly funded by Mackay Regional Council and the Queensland Government. For more information visit www.connectingmackay.gooseponds-park-upgrades Major upgrades at Gooseponds Park, including a new pedestrian bridge, widened shared pathway, fencing and tree planting, are set to improve access and connectivity, with works expected to run from mid-June to late September. Illustrative image supplied.
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Improved safety, stronger infrastructure and greater resilience are on the horizon for motorists travelling between Mackay and Sarina, with the latest round of Bruce Highway upgrades welcomed as a significant investment in the region's transport network. Member for Mirani, Glen Kelly, said the upgrades form part of the historic $9 billion Bruce Highway funding agreement between the Queensland and Federal governments and will deliver lasting benefits for road users across Central Queensland. Mr Kelly said the Bruce Highway remains one of the most vital transport routes within the Mirani electorate, supporting thousands of vehicle movements each day, including freight transport, daily commuters, tourists, school buses and emergency services. “Roads are consistently the number one issue raised with me by local residents, and that's not surprising when the Mirani electorate contains over 400 kilometres of the Bruce Highway stretching from the Mackay city gates right through to Raglan Creek,” Mr Kelly said. “These upgrades are about improving safety, reducing road trauma and ensuring Queenslanders can get where they need to go safely and reliably.” Mr Kelly highlighted the importance of the Mackay to Sarina section of the Bruce Highway, particularly its role in connecting local communities, industry and freight movements throughout the district. “The Mackay to Sarina corridor is one of the busiest sections of highway in regional Queensland. It supports our agricultural sector, our mining industry via the Port of Hay Point, and the thousands of people who travel this route every week for work and family commitments.” “That's why it is fantastic to see significant investment being directed towards projects such as pavement strengthening at both the northern and southern entrances to Sarina, along with ongoing works at Bakers Creek.” Works at Bakers Creek include bridge resurfacing and repairs to expansion joints, helping improve skid resistance and road performance during wet weather. Mr Kelly said, “Many locals were concerned about the significant deformation that had developed in the road surface at Spider Creek. “The upgrades delivered there, including road widening, wide centre-line treatments and audio tactile line marking, will provide a much safer journey for motorists.” While the investment is a welcome boost for the region, Mr Kelly acknowledged that additional improvements are still required. “For too long, Queenslanders have had to accepted that travelling on the Bruce Highway means dealing with potholes, narrow sections and safety concerns.” “These upgrades are a major step forward, but nobody is pretending the job is finished.” “We will continue advocating for further investment because regional Queensland deserves a Bruce Highway that is safe, resilient and fit for the growing freight and passenger task it carries every day.” “Every upgrade matters. Whether it's a major highway project, a bridge repair or pavement strengthening, these investments help keep people safe and keep our regional economy moving.” For more information on the Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program and Bruce Highway Upgrade Program projects, visit www.yoursay-projects.tmr.qld.gov.au/bruce-highway-priority-projects Bruce Highway upgrades at Bakers Creek and Sarina will boost safety and strengthen a key transport link for Central Queensland motorists. Photo supplied
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By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay A decade ago, Queensland Canegrowers was in the throes of a fierce defence of growers’ right to choice of sugar marketer. Now, the industry has been called to consider the future of the Code of Conduct that emerged from that industry debate. Growers retain an interest in the sugar produced from their sugarcane, and in the 2010’s, the industry moved away from a single desk marketer model with new marketers emerging. Some industry players wanted growers to market only through their miller. The situation was resolved through good support from some key politicians of the day – and particularly the then member for Dawson George Christensen – and through some strong and important industry tools including the 2015 “Real Marketing Choice” amendments to Queensland Sugar Industry Act, then at a Federal level in 2017 with the introduction of the Sugar Industry Code of Conduct. The Code of Conduct requires parties to negotiate in good faith, and protects growers’ ability to choose who markets their Grower Economic Interest sugar, and provides access to pre-contract arbitration if negotiations break down. This week, submissions closed in the review of the Code of Conduct, with the Australian Government to consider these and consider whether the Code be allowed to sunset as scheduled on 1 October 2027, or be retained as is, or with changes made. CANEGROWERS is committed to the Code being retained in its current form. In our view, the current Code continues to provide an essential and balanced framework that promotes fair dealing, transparency and workable commercial discipline across the sugar supply chain. The review is intended to examine whether the Code is meeting industry needs and objectives. The Australian Government has described the Code as supporting fairness and transparency in commercial arrangements, and that objective remains as important today as when the Code was introduced in 2017. The underlying market conditions that justified its introduction have not disappeared. In most cane-growing regions, growers cannot simply switch counterparties if negotiations fail. Cane is perishable, harvest windows are tight, and freight economics limit alternatives. In that setting, the Code performs an important public policy function by establishing minimum rules of conduct and a framework for resolving bargaining impasses. Those protections are not redundant; they are fundamental to a fair negotiating environment. Importantly, the current Code is not an excessive or unworkable intervention. It does not remove commercial risk, guarantee outcomes, or prevent parties from pursuing their legitimate commercial interests. Rather, it sets baseline expectations for conduct, transparency and process in circumstances where bargaining power is uneven. In our experience, that balance remains appropriate. The Code provides a disciplined structure for negotiation while still allowing commercial parties to reach outcomes that reflect local conditions and business realities. It is critical that the Federal Government upholds this important industry tool, allowing us to retain the Australian sugar industry’s good reputation as an equitable, stable player in global sugar trade. The Sugar Industry Code of Conduct protects growers’ ability to choose who markets their Grower Economic Interest sugar. Photo supplied
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These days there is much publicity surrounding the arrival of cruise ships to the Whitsundays but the forerunners of these modern marvels began visiting our waters nine decades ago.
As early as Saturday, June 2 1934, the lure of the Whitsundays was acknowledged in a “Courier Mail” article, “Touring Queensland”. “This winter everything possible is being done to entertain visitors, and opportunities will be given tourists of viewing the beauties of Whitsunday. … The steamship services from Brisbane commenced yesterday, when the passenger steamer “Wandana” left for the North with thirty-one passengers, and today the steamer “Canberra” will inaugurate the service from Melbourne. The “Katoomba” is leaving Sydney today for a special cruise to Cairns via the Whitsunday Passage on the Barrier Reef, calling at Scawfell, West Molle, Long, Hayman and Lindeman Islands.”
Cruise ship arrivals in the 1930s were also noted in the 2002 publication, “Long ago, I dreamt of an island”. The author, Boyd Anderson, reported, “The first group of guests (on Daydream Island) arrived on cruise ships like the “Canberra”, “Ormiston”, “Manoora” and “Kanimbla” which used to anchor off-shore. There was no wharf or jetty in those days. Crews rowed guests closer to shore by longboats and then they were ferried aboard the yacht, “Day Dream”. Since there was no jetty, passengers simply walked the gangplank from boat to beach.” To reach Daydream by steamer, the cost of a first-class ticket return to Sydney was 18 pounds 10 shillings (about $37). The second class return fare was 12 pounds 17 shillings and 6 pence.
Fast forward to the 1950s and the increasing popularity of the Whitsunday islands was further evidenced by the arrival of several groups of American tourists to the area, albeit by DC4 from Cairns. On February 7, 1958, the “Proserpine Guardian” reported that a “party of thirty American tourists from “SS Lurline” paid a whirlwind visit to Hayman Island … sixteen members of the party went to the Outer Barrier Reef.”
In a subsequent article on March 7 1958, the “Guardian” published a brief story about a party of forty American tourists on the Pacific-Far East cruise who arrived in Proserpine by Convair. The group “spent early Monday and Tuesday on Hayman Island and were taken to view the coral and the aboriginal caves on Hook Island. They left on Wednesday to rejoin the Norwegian ship, “Kungsholm”.
In the 1970s, the Whitsundays moved strongly towards tourism, encouraging people from all over the world to visit the area and cruise ships began anchoring at Cid Harbour for that very purpose. One of several local boats, “Torres Herald” (the others being “Trinity” and the ex-Sydney to Hobart yacht, “Solo”) ferried passengers from the ships to shore excursions. They faced many challenges endeavouring to keep steady alongside a very small pontoon beside the ship’s gangway at the water line. P&O’s “Arcadia” and “Fairstar” visited the area a couple of times each year - and it was not unusual to collect passengers along the way. On December 27, 1974, “Proserpine Guardian” noted that the “Fairstar”, carrying 1234 passengers, was on its third trip to the Whitsunday Passage.
Excursions were offered to the cruise ship passengers, among them, trips to Nara Inlet to view the aboriginal art; to Dent Island to admire the coral and the black coral jewellery and other displays owned by Leen and Bill Wallace; and to deserted islands with the option of fishing or just relaxing. There were usually thirty - forty tourists on board each boat, and lunch was provided.
From humble beginnings, the Whitsundays is now experiencing a burgeoning cruise ship industry.
Story courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum
Photo courtesy of “Australia’s Great Barrier Reef: Daydream Island” by David Keenan (published by Glenmede Pty Ltd 1995.)
Guests arriving at Daydream Island aboard SS Katoomba Circa 1935. Photo supplied.
Hello!
Welcome to this week’s Ruth2Reef! In this edition, we dive into fascinating stories on crocodile eyes, what to do if you spot an injured turtle, and the incredible lives of Spanish mackerels and seahorses.
Last week, I had the wonderful opportunity to help release one of Eco Barge’s rescued turtles, which was an unforgettable experience. I’ve also been exploring wildlife photography in my spare time, so keep an eye out for some of my own photos featured in this edition.
I hope you enjoy reading and discovering more about the amazing marine life around us.
Happy reading,
Ruth
"We don't own the planet Earth, we belong to it. And we must share it with our wildlife" - Steve Irwin.
The Spanish Mackerel (Scomberomorus commerson) is not only a very popular fish but it is a very important fish.
Spanish mackerel are a higher order predator and play a significant ecological role on the Great Barrier Reef. They are also of high economic and social value to the fishing businesses and recreational fishers that catch them. And, finally, the Spanish Mackerel has become a very controversial fish.
Spanish mackerel are a long, narrow fish and grow to a maximum length of over 2.4 meters and a weight of around 70 kg, though they are commonly caught between 55-125 cm and weighing 2-15 kg.
Spanish Mackerel are known for their impressive swimming speed. They are among the fastest fish in the ocean and can reach speeds of up to 80 km per hour when they are in pursuit of prey or evading predators.
They generally live around 11 years but have been known to live as long as 20 years.
The controversy surrounding the Spanish Mackerel is all about the management of the Spanish Mackerel fisheries.
A comprehensive stock assessment done in 2020, 2021, showed that the biomass on the east coast of Queensland was down to about 17 per cent. That showed that the fishery was depleted, and action needed to be taken to rebuild the stocks.
In July 2023, the Queensland government implemented significant reductions to commercial and recreational catch limits. This move was designed to allow the Spanish Mackerel population to build to sustainable levels.
However, in August 2025, the Queensland government announced results from a new stock assessment, suggesting Spanish mackerel populations had doubled since 2021. Based on this new data, the government has proposed increasing commercial catch limits by over 50% and doubling the limit for recreational fishers.
Many conservationists and fisheries biologist fear that such a move would be premature. They feel the state government should wait until it saw stronger evidence of stock recovery for changes to be made to catch limits.
It is important to note that we are talking about a fishery working within the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area. But the Reef is under unprecedented pressure from global warming. Additionally, water pollution and unsustainable fishing practices also take a toll on the Reef.
To give our Reef a fighting chance, we need to do all that we can to tackle the local pressures of unsustainable fishing practices and water pollution, to increase the resilience of the Great Barrier Reef. To increase that resilience, we need healthy fish populations. Fisheries management within a world heritage area should be held to the highest possible standards, and that includes ensuring that fish stocks are not overfished.
Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Conservation Council.
Spanish Mackerel. Photo supplied.
Meals on Wheels Proserpine is calling for community support, with an urgent need for volunteers to help deliver and cook meals and help those in need.
At the organisation’s Annual General Meeting held in late September the ongoing shortage of volunteers was highlighted as a major concern.
Meals on Wheels Proserpine is currently seeking kitchen volunteers, delivery drivers, and people interested in helping to organise fundraising initiatives.
The service provides nutritious meals and social connection for people across the community, including seniors and those with limited mobility.
Meals on Wheels is a volunteer based kitchen that provide delivered affordable, nutritious meals to seniors, people with disabilities, and others who are unable to cook for themselves.
Each delivery is made by volunteers who not only bring a meal but also provide a friendly check-in and social connection. Funded through a combination of government support and client contributions, the program helps people maintain their independence and continue living comfortably in their own homes.
Anyone able to assist in any capacity is encouraged to contact Helen on 4945 1733.
Can you volunteer time to Meals On Wheels Proserpine? Contact Helen on 4945 1733. Photo sourced: Facebook
The Queensland Fire Department (QFD) have imposed a local fire ban for residents in the Whitsunday Local Government Areas. The fire ban was placed from 12:01am on Wednesday 8 October.
The current conditions are perfect for bushfires to ignite and spread quickly.
Under a local fire ban all open fires are prohibited and all Permits to Light Fire which have been issued in the designated areas have been suspended for the duration of the ban.
Power tools may be used during a local fire ban however QFD encourages people to use these with extreme care and ensure adequate equipment is available to extinguish any fire which may start. This may include having a person available to watch out for any ignitions that occur.
The ban is expected to remain in place until 11:59pm on Tuesday 21 October.
The 2025 Ramped Up Whitsundays hosted by The Rumble was an extraordinary success.
The two-day skateboarding competition brought a real excitement to the region, with the sport not having regular events.
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said last year’s inaugural Ramped Up event brought a real buzz to the Whitsundays and attracted competitors, families and spectators from across Queensland and interstate.
“It delivered strong economic benefits for our local businesses and tourism operators, especially in Cannonvale and Bowen. The 2024 event injected an estimated $783,000 into the regional economy, which is an incredible return for a grassroots sporting event," he said.
“Sport has always been something that brings people together and opens doors, especially for our young people. Whether it is out on the water, on the field or at the skatepark, it helps build confidence and a real sense of community.
“Council is proud to get behind events like Ramped Up through our Major Festivals and Events Sponsorship Program.
“They showcase our great facilities, but more importantly they inspire the next generation of athletes and active families right here in the Whitsundays.”
Before the weekend Mayor Ry Collins also said they expected this years' event to build on the success of last years.
“We’re expecting this year’s event to build on that success, with more than 140 competitors, around 1,200 visiting spectators and over 4,400 visitor nights projected across the region. That is a huge boost for local accommodation, small business and tourism operators.”
A local seniors singing group known for its laughter, music, and community spirit is preparing to take the stage later this month for a special concert celebrating friendship, fun, and the power of song.
The Mommas and Poppas, a group of mostly senior musicians and singers who have been performing together for about five years, will hold their next concert at the Proserpine Uniting Church on Thursday 23rd of October at 10am.
The event, titled Chansons d’Amour Concert, is open to the public and promises a lively morning of entertainment, morning tea, and lunch.
The concert is also being held in honour of a milestone birthday for Church Reverand Suzy Sitton, who wanted the occasion to bring joy to members of the community who don’t often have the chance to get out and socialise.
“She requested that we try and have people from the community come who don't often get out in, or go out during the day,” explained group member Ross.
“Suzy's idea, originally, was to have a concert that will get people out during the day, and give them some activity and a bit of fun and food.”
The Mommas and Poppas formed shortly after Cyclone Debbie, thanks to the efforts of Colleen Burns, who recognised a need for cultural and social connection among local seniors. Since then, the group has met weekly at Colleen’s home in Proserpine, performing at community events such as the Proserpine Uniting Church Flower Show, St Catherine’s Fete, and Grandparents Day at the library.
Ross explained that the Mommas and Poppas group are mostly a social group that love the socialising the group brings.
The group has become known for its festive performances, often dressing up for St Patrick’s Day and Christmas events, and featuring everything from guitars and harmonicas to percussion and drums.
The October 23 concert runs from 10am to 12pm, with entry by donation. Guests can enjoy morning tea, lunch, raffles, and a chance to sing along with the Mommas and Poppas as they share their music with the wider community.
“It should be a great day,” Ross said. “A bit of fun, some good food, and plenty of music, that’s what it’s all about.”
This year Queensland Mental Health Week starts from 4-12 October and is the perfect time to come together and raise awareness about mental health and wellbeing.
One in five Australians aged 16-85 (22%) are estimated to have experienced a mental disorder in the last 12 months, while more than two in five (43%) have experienced one in their lifetime.
The theme of the year - ‘connect for mental health’ - invites us all to reflect on the importance of connections – with ourselves, others, our community, and nature, and how it can positively impact mental health.
selectability is proud to be a vital part in enhancing the mental wellbeing of regional Queenslanders.
With a strong focus on tailored support, the team are committed to fostering community connections by providing accessible support through a wide range of services, programs, and initiatives.
Jenelle Maher, selectability Bowen regional coordinator, said programs like the Clubhouse offer a safe and welcoming environment for individuals to build new skills, share experiences, and work towards improved mental wellbeing.
“Whether it’s getting involved in self-reflection activities, engaging with others through games and puzzles, or connecting with the community and nature by fishing at the Jetty or BBQs at the beach,” said Jenelle.
“These activities are designed to foster connection and support but also reduce loneliness.”
For anyone over 18 seeking support to improve their mental wellbeing, there are a range of NDIS packages available, and funding options for those not on the scheme. To find out more contact the team on 07 4864 3000.
The Whitsunday Game Fish Club is holding a How To, Hands On night on all things fishing this Friday, October 10, from 6pm at the Marine Club on Altmann Avenue, Cannonvale — and everyone’s welcome.
This will be an evening where you can learn a host of new skills or brush up on old ones under the guidance of experienced club members.
Activities will include making wind-on leaders, twisting wire traces, bait rigging, lure presentation, tying strong knots, tackle selection, setting up your rods and reels, and various other skills to help make your next fishing trip more successful.
You can bring your own rods, reels, tackle, and bait, and take them home ready to go — or use some of the gear provided on the night.
Club members will be on hand to share their knowledge and experience with fishos of all ages. Whether you’re new to the sport or a seasoned angler, there’ll be something for everyone.
Bring the whole family along — sausages will be sizzling, and the bar will be open from 6pm for an enjoyable evening of learning and good company.
WHAT: Hands On Night
WHERE: The Marine Club on Altmann ave. Cannonvale
WHEN: Friday 10th October at 6pm
The future of fishing. Photos supplied
The Bowen Visitor Information Centre next to the iconic Big Mango has smashed previous records, welcoming an incredible 24,730 visitors in the first three months of this financial year.
July was the biggest month yet, with 9462 people stopping in — up from 7002 the same time last year.
August followed with 7057 visitors (up from 5907), while September soared to 8211 visitors, compared to 6646 last year.
Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy, said the results exceeded all expectations.
“School holidays, the grey nomad season and events like the Don River Dash always make this our busiest time of year,” she said.
“But this year, the numbers were boosted even further by the Gilmour Space Technologies rocket launch, the return of the Bowen Fishing Classic, and the media attention from recent awards.”
The excitement peaked in late September when the Big Mango souvenir coins went on sale.
Two days prior to the sale of the coins at the centre, the team of staff and volunteers welcomed 529 people in one day – breaking the previous daily record of 512 in June 2023.
When the coin did go on sale, locals and visitors lined up at the centre from 7.30am for a 9am opening, and 500 coins sold out in just 43 minutes.
On that day, a total of 539 people visited the centre, including more than 120 locals.
“We then broke another daily record a few days later with 545 visitors on September 29," added Leanne.
“Even without the coin launch, our numbers were already trending well ahead of last year.
“It’s wonderful to see so many people discovering Bowen — and we’re proud to be inspiring them to explore more of the Whitsundays region."
Of the total visitors in the quarter, 13.9% were international, up from around 12% last year.
Contributed with thanks to Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy.
QUICK FACTS
Total visitors (July–Sept 2025): 24,730
Previous year (same period): 19,555
Biggest day: September 29 – 545 visitors
Biggest month: July – 9462 visitors
International visitors: 13.9%
Volunteer Steve Fisher, better known as “Fish”, with visitors from the UK at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre. Photo supplied
Since opening in May, the Airlie Beach Foreshore Ferris Wheel has become one of the region’s most popular attractions, drawing more than 50,000 locals and visitors to experience its 35-metre-high views across Airlie Beach, and the Foreshore.
Offering sweeping 360-degree outlooks over Conway National Park, the Whitsunday islands and the turquoise coastline, the Ferris Wheel has been a focal point for holidaymakers and residents alike. It has created family memories, added to the foreshore’s vibrant atmosphere, and even hosted 17 marriage proposals.
With the attraction scheduled to wrap up on Saturday, October 11, the Whitsunday Regional Council is now seeking community feedback to help decide whether the Ferris Wheel should return for future seasons.
Those yet to experience the Ferris Wheel still have a few days to enjoy one final ride before it packs up ahead of the storm season.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to share their thoughts on whether the ride added to Airlie Beach’s charm and character, or if it should remain a one-time feature.
Consultation closes on October 31, with submissions invited through Council’s online engagement portal.
Let council know what you think of Airlie Beach Ferris Wheel via their consultation. Photo credit: Mackay and Whitsunday Life
It’s set to be a big weekend for live music lovers, with a touch of Australian rock history coming to the Airlie Beach Hotel.
Founding member of Australian Crawl, Bill McDonough, will make a special guest appearance with long-time tribute band Reckless, giving fans a rare chance to meet one of the original members behind some of Australia’s most iconic surf rock anthems.
Reckless, well-loved by Airlie Beach audiences for their high-energy shows, will perform two afternoon shows of classic Crawl hits with Bill joining them on stage for a Q&A session, book signing and meet-and-greet.
“I’ll be appearing on stage with Reckless, where the audience can ask questions and have a chat,” Bill said.
“I’ll have T-shirts and signed copies of my memoir Sons of Beaches available, and people can come up, meet me, and have a drink.”
Released in 2023, Sons of Beaches tells Bill’s story alongside his late brother, Guy, who was one of Australian Crawl’s leading songwriters and singers. The memoir lifts the lid on the band’s incredible rise to fame and the personal challenges that came with it.
“I wrote the story for a purpose. I wanted people to read and understand what really went on with my myself, my brother and Australian crawl,” said Bill.
“There’s been so much misinformation over the years, so I wrote the memoir to set the record straight.”
Although retired from performing Bill said he’s excited to reconnect with fans and share stories from the band’s glory days.
Bill said he did one of these Meet and Greet events in Melbourne and it went really well. He said when Mark from Airlie Beach Hotel contacted him to do another in Airlie Beach, he said yes and knew it would be fun.
During the band's time Bill wrote several of the group’s biggest hits, including Downhearted, Shut Down and Indisposed. Decades later, Australian Crawl’s music continues to find new audiences, with more than 35 million streams in the past year alone.
“Our music is the soundtrack to people’s youth, and it's also very synonymous with summer and surf culture,” he said.
And that surf culture runs deep for McDonough, who grew up with his bandmates by the water on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula.
“We were all very athletic and we were swimmers, footballers and athletes,” he added.
“We shared the same sort of surf culture background and we all had a passion for music as well, and that's why Australian Crawl, is called a surf rock band, because of our surf culture background.”
Now based part-time in Noosa, Bill said he’s looking forward to heading north for the Whitsundays shows.
“I love Queensland and I remember Airlie Beach from the good old days,” added Bill.
For fans, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to meet the original drummer from one of Australia’s most beloved bands.
So if you’re a Crawl fan, come along, say g’day, grab a drink and talk to an original Australian Crawl member about the good old days.
WHAT: Meet Bill McDonough
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Saturday October 18 and Sunday October 19 (2pm – 5.30pm)
Bill McDonough with Reckless lead singer Mark Sinni
Bill McDonough with his memoir 'Sons of Beaches'
Photos supplied
Earlier this month, Tourism Whitsundays attended Australia Marketplace North America in Los Angeles, hosted by Australia.com.
The event brought together 110 buyers from the US and Canada and 91 Australian sellers. Across two days and 76 meetings, Tourism Whitsundays connected with key trade partners from North America to provide updates and information on the region.
Interest in The Whitsundays and travel to the region remains very strong.
Following Australia Marketplace, Tourism Whitsundays represented the region at Tourism and Events Queensland’s ‘Queensland Is Calling’ UK and Europe roadshow. The program included a full day of meetings with key Product Managers from across the UK and Europe, plus two retail agent training events in Cologne and Manchester.
Tourism Whitsundays connected with both new and long-standing trade distribution partners to showcase the region. From high-end luxury to youth travel, The Whitsundays offers something for all trade partners and travellers, and international bookings to the region continue to remain strong.
These events play an important role in keeping The Whitsundays accessible and bookable for international travellers. Tourism Whitsundays thanks both Tourism Australia and Tourism and Events Queensland for hosting such valuable opportunities to engage with key global markets.
Contributed with thanks to Laura Knipe, Marketing Manager, Tourism Whitsundays
This week’s spotlight shines on Patches, a 3-year-old Mastiff x Bull Arab with a heart as big as his paws. Life hasn’t been easy for Patches – he was abandoned and rescued in poor condition – but thanks to care and patience, he’s regained his strength and is ready to start a new chapter with a forever family.
Though a little nervous when meeting new people, once Patches feels safe, his goofy and loveable personality comes shining through. He’s a gentle soul who adores being close to his humans and would happily spend his days snoozing by your side, broken up by short walks and bursts of playtime.
About Patches:
Sweet but shy to begin with – warms up into a cuddly goofball
Enjoys play but is just as content relaxing with his people
Great with respectful dogs but would thrive as the only pet
Tested well with cats in foster care – calm and uninterested
Best suited to a calm, stable home without young children due to his size and strength
Patches isn’t the high-energy type; instead, he’s the perfect couch buddy who will reward love and patience with endless loyalty.
What Patches Needs: A calm and loving family who can offer stability, gentle guidance, and a safe home where he can finally relax.
If you think Patches could be your perfect companion, email bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com today to arrange a meet and greet.
Animal rescue groups and organisations within the Whitsunday Shire and beyond have sounded the call for support, announcing a series of Adopt-A-Dog Day events across North Queensland.
On Saturday, the 11th of October from 10am to 2pm, Pets Domain Bowen will host an Adopt-A-Dog Day event to give the community a chance to meet, support and celebrate rescue dogs in need for forever homes.
In conjunction with SavourLife, Bowen and Collinsville Pet Rescue will be in store this Saturday to introduce locals to some of their wonderful pups who are currently looking for their new, loving families. The day will serve as the perfect opportunity to ask questions about adoptions and learn more about how rescue groups operate.
To make the day even more impactful, and heartwarming, every bag of SavourLife Dog Dry Food purchased will be matched with a donation of the same bag directly to the local rescue groups in the area. That means each purchase not only feeds your furry friend at home but also helps feed dogs still waiting to meet their new families.
Additional event details are available online at petsdomain.com.au/pages/adopt-a-dog.
What: Adopt-A-Dog Day
When: 11th of October, 10am to 2pm
Where: Pets Domain Bowen
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