Queensland Government Extends Support for Greater Whitsunday Regional workforce collaboration Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) has welcomed the Queensland Government’s announcement of continued funding for the Greater Whitsunday Regional Jobs Committee (RJC), securing the program through to 2027. This extension confirms GW3 as the host organisation for the Regional Jobs Committee program until 2027 and reinforces the vital role the committee plays in aligning local industry needs, training pathways, and regional workforce development. The program is designed by locals, for locals, providing a coordinated approach to identifying unique skilling challenges and strengthening connections between industry, government, training providers and community organisations. The Greater Whitsunday RJC forms part of a statewide network of 12 Regional Jobs Committees operating from Cairns to the Gold Coast. Together, these committees deliver region-specific skilling and workforce solutions that respond directly to local needs and support long-term economic growth. Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) Chief Executive Officer, Ms Kylie Porter, said the commitment demonstrates the importance of proactive workforce planning as local industries continue to evolve. “We are delighted the Queensland Government is continuing to invest in regional workforce development through the RJC program. “This extension ensures we can keep driving a coordinated, industry-led approach to skills, training, and workforce attraction across Mackay, Isaac, and Whitsunday. Greater Whitsunday Regional Jobs Committee Chair, Ms Carissa Mansfield, said sustained funding provides important certainty for industry and partners. “Workforce remains one of the biggest challenges facing our region. The continuation of the RJC program means we can keep bringing local voices together to address barriers to training, participation, and business growth.” Member for Mackay, Mr Nigel Dalton, said the Queensland Government is committed to supporting strong regional jobs and skills development. “The Greater Whitsunday RJC is delivering real impact by strengthening local training pathways and helping businesses connect with the support they need. Extending this program through to 2027 ensures continued investment in regional jobs, industry alignment, and sustainable economic growth.” “This funding reflects our commitment to ensuring local people have access to local opportunities, and that regional communities are supported to thrive.” The Greater Whitsunday Regional Jobs Committee is proudly supported and funded by the Queensland Government.
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Mackay residents are being encouraged to put their hand up to help shape the future of the Bruce Highway, with Expressions of Interest now open for regional representatives to join the Bruce Highway Advisory Council. The State Government has opened applications for the next round of regional representatives, including one position for the Mackay Whitsunday region, as part of its commitment to improving safety, reliability and long-term planning along Queensland’s major north–south transport corridor. The Bruce Highway Advisory Council brings together regional representatives and industry experts to help inform priorities for investment and upgrades, including the $9 billion Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program and the development of a statewide Fatigue Management Strategy. Chaired by the Minister for Transport and Main Roads, the Council includes stakeholders from Pine River to Far North Queensland and plays a key role in identifying local issues and directing where funding should be prioritised. The six regional representatives will join five peak industry bodies on the Council, including the Royal Automobile Club of Queensland, Queensland Trucking Association, Queensland Farmers' Federation, Queensland Tourism Industry Council and the Local Government Association of Queensland. Regional representatives are appointed on a voluntary basis for a 12-month term and may reapply if they wish to continue. The government said the process ensured a diverse mix of local experience and industry expertise was brought to the table. Expressions of Interest are open for representatives from six regions, including Far North Queensland, North Queensland, Mackay Whitsunday, Fitzroy, Wide Bay Burnett and North Coast. Applications for the Bruce Highway Advisory Council close on the 23rd of January.
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Mackay To Become Specialist Cancer Service Hub The Queensland Government has confirmed major progress on its fully funded Hospital Rescue Plan, unveiling clear timelines for hospital upgrades and new facilities across the state — with Mackay set to benefit as part of a strengthened regional health network. The plan has reached a significant milestone, with masterplans finalised for key hospital projects including Townsville University Hospital, Toowoomba Hospital, Coomera Hospital, Redcliffe Hospital and Bundaberg Hospital, alongside confirmed planning details for major upgrades at hospitals across Queensland. The Government said the plan was introduced after inheriting what it described as a failed and under-funded health infrastructure program, which resulted in major delays, missing services and $7 billion in cost blowouts. Under the Hospital Rescue Plan, the government is delivering a coordinated and fully costed approach to hospital construction and upgrades, aimed at restoring health services and delivering urgently needed hospital beds across Queensland. While Mackay is not listed for a major hospital expansion under the current tranche of projects, the region is expected to benefit directly through the Queensland Cancer Plan, which will establish Mackay as one of several specialist cancer service hubs across the state. The network will support regional hospitals and improve access to cancer care for communities outside Brisbane. As part of the statewide plan, specialist cancer hubs will be established in Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Wide Bay, Darling Downs, Brisbane and the Gold Coast, helping reduce the need for patients to travel long distances for treatment. Across Queensland, the Hospital Rescue Plan will deliver at least 2,600 additional hospital beds through new hospitals, expansions and upgrades, representing the largest hospital infrastructure investment in the state’s history. Major hospital projects are already moving forward, including expansions at Townsville University Hospital, which will deliver at least 165 new beds by 2028, and Bundaberg Hospital, which is set to receive more than 200 new beds along with an expanded emergency department and improved maternity services by 2031. Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls said the government was focused on delivering hospital beds and services when Queenslanders need them most. "Our fully-funded Hospital Rescue Plan is delivering new and expanded hospitals, 2,600 new hospital beds and health services when Queenslanders need them most," Minister Nicholls said. "After Labor’s decade of decline that left the system in crisis and without a credible path to building the hospital beds needed, Queenslanders are starting to see the results of getting our hospital build back on track with masterplans, designs and construction moving forward. "We’ve put to bed the poor planning, delays and cost blowouts we inherited and we’re now delivering the hospital beds Queensland needs now and into the future." Queensland Health Implementation Lead Sam Sangster said extensive planning was underway to ensure hospital projects met the needs of local communities across the state. “These masterplans mark an exciting first step in the process where Queenslanders will begin to see work intensifying on sites across the state,” Mr Sangster said. “It’s important to take the time to properly plan these major projects to ensure we leave a lasting legacy through sustainable infrastructure that caters for staff, clinicians, patients and their families.” The Queensland Government said the Hospital Rescue Plan marked a turning point for health infrastructure delivery, providing certainty for communities like Mackay through improved access to specialist services and a stronger statewide hospital network.
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In celebration of 20 years, Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank has introduced an additional higher education scholarship as part of its Community Engagement Program, allowing more students to receive a share of $39,000. For eligible degrees and apprenticeships at CQUniversity in 2026, the program includes three $9000 scholarships for undergraduate degrees and two $6000 scholarships for apprenticeships, providing not only financial assistance but also opportunities for professional development and growth. Community Bank Sarina Board Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich highlighted Community Bank Sarina’s commitment to supporting local talent, describing the scholarships as “an ongoing investment in the personal growth and skills development of young people in our region, marking two decades of community impact." “Scholarships show students that their community is behind them, allowing them to stay close to family, friends and support networks while pursuing their studies and careers,” Ms Franettovich said. “This initiative creates opportunities for networking, mentoring and connection with local businesses - key elements in building a strong foundation for their future.” Higher education scholarships are available for a range of fields for those commencing their studies in 2026, including accounting, agriculture/agribusiness, business, digital media, environmental science, health, information technology, law, nursing, science and teaching. In addition, scholarships are offered for first-year apprentices in automotive engineering and technology, building and construction, electrical, manufacturing engineering and technology, hairdressing, horticulture, hospitality and mechanical trades. 2026 Community Bank Sarina CQUniversity Scholarship applications close 28 February. To find out more information and request an application pack, email executive@sarinacommunity.com.au.
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“You’re not old, you’re fantastic!”
These were the words of my young son during the week of his eighth birthday when I mentioned my ever-increasing age.
I think he was probably buttering me up ahead of his ‘Party Royale’ Fortnite-themed birthday bash this Friday, but it still felt nice to be called fantastic!
Anyway, this week is big not just because of my son’s birthday, but also due to a certain imminent rocket launch in Bowen.
After years of preparation, the launch window has finally arrived and the whole region is buzzing with excitement!
Although thrilled with the news, we all had a good laugh at the office when we heard the expected launch date – you see, we go to print on Wednesday, and the paper is distributed on Friday.
This means Gilmour very selfishly picked the one day when our paper is in limbo!
If we write about the rocket launch happening on Thursday and it doesn't, we would be wrong; but if we don’t mention it, we’ll miss some of the biggest news the Whitsundays has seen in years – maybe ever!
How exciting that our region is playing a part in making history!
To think, this all started thanks to Bowen’s fortunate geography – the perfect latitude, its remote location, and just the right proximity to what’s needed. All the stars aligned (literally!) to make the Whitsundays part of Australia’s first space adventure.
School kids are chatting about it in classrooms and playgrounds, tourists are flocking to our region, spending money just to get a glimpse of the launch, and Bowen is about to go down in history as the site of Australia’s first rocket launch.
Whether or not the rocket successfully soars eight minutes into the sky on Thursday and reaches orbit, this is still a momentous occasion for all of us!
Good luck to the incredibly talented team at Gilmour, and thanks for bringing space travel to the Whitsundays.
Rach
Quote of the Week: “Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go” (T.S. Eliot)
Well known for his community-minded attitude, local Ironman hero Mick Kimpton once again proved his deep-rooted kindness when he helped Whitsunday Life journalist Daniel Heggie earlier this week.
Eager to participate in the Airlie Beach Triathlon this year, Daniel had begun training with a friend but realised one thing stood in his way – he didn’t have a bike.
Having known Mick through his role as President of the Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival, Daniel approached him to ask if he knew where he could purchase or hire a bike.
“I asked him where I could go to hire a bike a week or two before the triathlon, so I could get used to a fast bike,” explained Daniel.
“I was blown away by his generosity. Instead of suggesting a bike hire place, he offered to arrange a club bike with my name on it.”
“And instead of hiring a bike for a week or two, I can have the club bike for a month before the triathlon, including the race. This will give me a chance to get comfortable and familiar with outdoor training.”
“I’m so grateful for Mick’s generosity and support. His offer made a huge difference to my preparation and showed just how welcoming and supportive this triathlon community really is.”
The Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival takes place on the 16th and 17th of August this year, with activities for everyone to enjoy – including special children’s events and different categories that allow all members of the community to participate.
Sign up now, and you might even see Daniel on the track!
Yes, there is evidence that Great Barrier Reef green zones, or no-take zones, are effective in protecting and increasing fish populations, especially coral trout. These zones help replenish fish stocks and benefit the overall health of the reef ecosystem.
Prior to the Reef rezoning of 2004, protected areas on the Reef covered less than 5%. But after an intense two-year planning period and more than 30,000 public submissions, protected areas were increased to more than 33% in 2004.
There was a lot of conjecture at the time as to whether it was the right thing to do and there were some seriously opposing views.
But the science is undeniably clear; green zones really do work.
Here's why they work:
Increased Fish Numbers and Size:
Research shows that green zones have led to significant increases in coral trout numbers and average size. Bigger fish can produce more offspring, contributing to the replenishment of fish stocks.
Spill-over Effect:
Fish, like coral trout and snapper, spawn and reproduce within green zones, and their larvae travel to surrounding fished areas, benefiting those areas as well.
Improved Ecosystem Health:
Increased fish populations, particularly predators like coral trout, can help control the populations of other species, like crown-of-thorn starfish, which are a threat to coral reefs. Corals found in green zones tend to be healthier, showing less disease, than fished zones.
Benefits for Fisheries:
The increase in fish populations in green zones can also lead to increased yields and sustainability for fisheries in surrounding areas.
Long-term Protection:
The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority has been using zoning as a key management tool since the 1980s, with the 2004 rezoning significantly expanding protection and further improving results.
Of course, for green zones to be effective, adhering to the rules (compliance) is extremely important. Compliance data and research shows that commercial fishing compliance is very good. Unfortunately, recreational fishing compliance needs to improve.
Overall, this is a win, win, win situation. Green zones on the Great Barrier Reef are a successful strategy for protecting fish populations, supporting healthy ecosystems, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of both the reef and the industries that depend on it.
Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Conservation Council
Coral Trouts spawn and reproduce within the green zones. Photo supplied
Humpbacks in the southern hemisphere commonly have a white or grey underside which can extend onto their sides. The top of the pectoral fin is generally black on top and white underneath.
Humpbacks in the northern hemisphere are predominantly black, but have varying degrees of white on the throat, belly, pectoral fins, and flukes.
The top of their pectorals tend to be white.
Just like their body pigmentation, southern hemisphere humpback whales have large areas of white on their tail flukes.
The Australian East Coast population often have completely or mostly white on their tail flukes.
The darker tail flukes with less white are more common in northern hemisphere.
The black and white patterns on humpback whale flukes are unique to each whale, so individuals can be identified by photos of underside of the flukes. Photos can be uploaded to the HappyWhale data base. Since the 1970s scientists have used this as a tool, visually matching each whale in catalogs of thousands of individuals, to track individuals in migrations across oceans and to monitor populations. At present over 120,000 individuals have been identified.
Anyone can contribute to citizen science by taking a photo of a whale fluke and submitting it to Happywhale.com
Images and data are shared with scientific organizations engaged in photo ID studies. Happywhale will attempt to identify any individuals in your photos now using artificial intelligence-based automated image recognition.
Happywhale will notify you of what they find, either finding a match, or if they do not find a match, they will determine your whale to be new to science, add an ID, and look for your whale in all future sightings.
Contributed by Kellie Leonard, Master Reef Guide/Whales of the Whitsundays.
Hi everyone,
Welcome to this week’s edition of Ruth2Reef!
I hope you enjoy reading about the latest environmental happenings.
If you have any stories you’d like to see featured in Ruth2Reef, feel free to email them to me at ruth@lifepublishinggroup.com
Happy reading!
Ruth
W B (Bill) Morgan came to the district in 1902. Initially he worked for farmers, Peter Nielsen and John Renwick, with a spell on cattle stations out west. In 1905, Bill Morgan started cane growing at Cannon Valley with brother, Norman. In 1910/11, along with cousins, P and G Morris, they established a larger farm at Conway/Preston.
The Morgan brothers’ house was impressive. When Annie Ware and Jim Stanley were to be married in 1911, a kitchen tea was held there. A toast proposed to Bill as the evening’s host, referred to his “good citizenship” and noted how he “always took a leading part in anything that was for the good of the district.”
In 1912, as representative of the Ratepayers’ Union, Bill was elected as a shire councillor, holding that position until defeated in 1914. He also served on council in the mid 1930s, however was unsuccessful at his attempts to enter politics having been defeated in the 1936 Bowen by - election.
Bill Morgan was a delegate to the Mackay Convention which founded the United Canegrowers Association in Queensland (1914), helping draft its constitution and later representing Proserpine at several state conferences. Bill also served twenty years as Branch Representative of the Farmer’s Executive on the Bowen Harbour Board. He was also one of the first directors of Proserpine Co-operative Dairying Co after its formation in 1922. In 1926, he campaigned for the installation of a telephone system to the rural districts and by 1927 this was completed.
Bill was the driving force behind the building of the first district public hall at Preston in 1911. Records show that, in May 1911, “Preston public hall trustees held a dance at Messrs Morgan Bros new residence at Cannon Valley to raise funds for the building.” On the social side, together with other Conway people, he conducted the Conway Racing Club for five years and was also involved in the Preston Cricket Club.
In 1930, Bill gave up cane growing and relinquished most of his public positions to go in for cattle breeding. He conducted a small butchering business until 1942 when, due to the shortage of cattle, war rationing and sickness, he was forced to close. Past locals recalled that Bill Morgan’s butcher shop at Rifle Range Road was a pretty rough establishment but did have a REGISTERED sign outside the shop. The meat for sale was just chops and cuts as Bill used to shoot bush cattle and slaughter them. He also made a lot of items from green hide. When Bill closed his butchering business, he retired to his Grimstone Point property.
Old timers related many humorous tales about Bill such as the occasion when someone was eating roast meat bought from old Bill and bit on a shotgun pellet! Then there was the time at Preston’s Fancy Dress Cricket Social when he dressed up as the Charles Dickens’ character, Bill Sykes, the burglar. Donning a black mask and armed with a sock half full of sand, he had to be carefully watched by all in attendance. One lady declared she had lost her watch and chain. Said items were still missing as the local aper went to press the following week! Could “Sykes” have been the culprit?
W B Morgan also turned his talents to writing and was the author of a supplement published in the “Proserpine Guardian” (December 1947) as part of the celebration of Proserpine’s Jubilee. Featuring a detailed account of 75 years of settlement and the valuable contributions of our district’s pioneers, it must have taken him countless hours to research and compile.
We are indebted to WB (Bill) Morgan for this comprehensive history and the absorbing detail about our early pioneers.
Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum.
W B Morgan was involved in Preston Cricket Club. Photo supplied
This week's Pet of the Week is two-year-old Arab x Greyhound with a heart as big as his paws. This loveable long-termer was rescued from death row at the Burdekin pound and is now looking for his second chance at happiness.
Currently being fostered in Brandy Creek, Timmy is a playful, affectionate companion who adores running, zoomies, and hanging out with his foster brothers. He’s fantastic with kids of all ages, submissive with other dogs, and even good with cats.
Timmy would thrive in a home with 6ft fences, daily walks, and ideally another canine companion or someone who is home often. While he hasn’t been tested with chickens, his gentle nature shines through in every interaction.
Adoption fee is $400, and this sweet boy is more than worth it. If you're looking to add a loyal friend to your family, Timmy could be your perfect match.
Rehoming fee: $400
Age: 2 years
Sex: Male
Breed: Arab x Greyhound
Other dogs: Yes
Fences: 6ft
Excitement is building for the Whitsunday Game Fish Club’s upcoming Queenfish and Trevally Rally, which has received a major boost with Tackle World Airlie Beach coming on board as the naming rights sponsor.
New store owners Dan and Beth Hockley have thrown their support behind the event in a big way, generously donating a $650 rod and reel combo as a major prize. They’ll also be delivering a special presentation during the event briefing, sharing expert tips on lure fishing for queenfish and trevally. In addition, they’ll be offering exclusive discounts on the latest gear—perfect for those hoping to land a winner.
The rally briefing and registration will be held Friday, 16 May from 6pm at the Marine Club on Altmann Avenue, Cannonvale, upstairs in the new training room. Everyone is welcome to attend.
The rally is open to all current members of any Game Fish Club and will be fished according to GFAA rules using open line class—conditions that promise to deliver some thrilling catches.
Fishing officially begins anytime after Friday night’s briefing, and all competitors must return to the club by 5pm on Saturday, 17 May for the trophy presentation and a few good stories shared among mates.
Entry fees are just $25 for adults and $10 for juniors under 16, making this a great-value weekend with fantastic prizes up for grabs and plenty of camaraderie.
With expert advice, top-quality gear, and the chance to hook some impressive fish, this year’s rally promises to be one not to miss.
The Whitsundays Tourism Awards, presented by Bishopp, are getting a fresh new format in 2025 - making it easier for more local tourism businesses to be recognised.
For the first time, there’s no written submission required. Instead, awards will be based on results from Queensland’s Best of Queensland program, which evaluates businesses on customer reviews, online presence, accreditation and more.
To be eligible, businesses must be members of Tourism Whitsundays for the 2025/26 financial year and hold Best of Queensland status. Once that’s confirmed, Tourism Whitsundays will be in touch in July to finalise entries and nominate award categories.
Winners will be chosen based on their Best of Queensland score, with Gold, Silver and Bronze going to the top-rated operators in each category.
The move brings the regional awards in line with the Queensland Tourism Awards and removes the need for time-consuming submissions, allowing more operators to get involved and focus on delivering exceptional visitor experiences.
This streamlined approach is designed to highlight the best in the region’s tourism and prepare local operators for potential state and national recognition.
Details on the awards night, including date, venue and ticket sales, will be announced soon.
Contributed by Tourism Whitsundays
The 2024 Whitsunday Tourism Awards. Photo credit: R Jean Photography
The Whitsundays are proudly represented across all categories in the 2025 Queensland Top Tourism Town Awards, with three local towns named as finalists, showcasing the region’s unique appeal from the sparkling coastline to its charming country heart.
Public voting opened at 10am on Saturday 10th May and closes on Friday, May 17, giving locals, Queenslanders, and visitors the chance to support their favourite Whitsundays destinations via the QTIC Top Tourism Town Awards website.
The finalists are:
• Bowen: Top Tourism Town (population over 5,000)
• Airlie Beach: Top Small Tourism Town (population 1,500 – 5,000)
• Collinsville: Top Tiny Tourism Town (population under 1,500)
Airlie Beach enters the competition as the reigning 2024 Top Small Tourism Town, having proudly secured the title for a third time last year. Bowen also scored bronze in their category last year.
Winners will be announced at a ceremony in Brisbane on Monday, June 16, with state champions progressing to the national Top Tourism Town Awards later in the year.
Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth says the nominations are a powerful vote of confidence in the region’s tourism offering.
“With Airlie Beach defending its crown and both Bowen and Collinsville also in the mix, we have an exciting opportunity to shine a light on the diversity and depth of what The Whitsundays offers,” he said.
“Being a finalist in all three categories is a remarkable achievement and a celebration of the people and places that make this region so special.”
Mayor Ry Collins said he’s proud to see Airlie Beach, Bowen and Collinsville in the running across different categories in this year’s Queensland Top Tourism Town Awards.
“It’s great to see our towns being recognised for what they each bring to the tourism experience,” Mayor Collins said.
“From reef access and adventure in Airlie Beach, to Bowen’s long, sandy beaches and Collinsville’s warm country vibe - each town has something unique to offer visitors.
“I encourage everyone to get behind the Whitsundays, cast your votes and help showcase what makes the Whitsundays such a special place to visit.”
Airlie Beach won Top Small Tourism Town for the past three years in a row
Scan this QR code to vote for the Whitsundays in the awards.
The Proserpine Rock Wallaby Festival was a huge success last weekend, and Creative Connections Whitsunday said they were thrilled with the turn out at the event.
Secretary of Creative Connections Whitsunday Glenda Brown praised the idea of the festival and said it is thanks to previous president Leigh Skead.
“She wanted to create an art festival that was based in Proserpine for a couple of reasons. To showcase the artists and to bring visitors and to create more activity in Proserpine,” said Glenda.
“She also wanted to encompass the conservation effort into it. They chose to name the festival after the Proserpine Rock Wallaby because it's unique to the region and it's endangered.
“The Wallaby became the hero of the festival, a lot of artwork was created to reflect the Wallaby, there are 3D statues, 2D cutouts and even a giant gold Wallaby that was in the exhibition, which was created by Fauna Rescue Whitsunday.”
The 2025 Proserpine Rock Wallaby Festival featured an art exhibition, a Rock Wallaby lantern, treasure hunt, handmade markets, workshops, live music, dance performances, a plein air art challenge, and a Mother’s Day morning tea. The art exhibition and treasure hunt winner were also announced.
Debbie Stephens won the People's Choice award at the Proserpine Rock Wallaby Festival Art Exhibition for her exquisite piece ‘A Mother's Love’.
The winners of the Wallaby Hunt were:
• Harmony Hepburn - Winner of the Crocodile Safari
• Vivian Youngsmith - won the Cruise Whitsundays trip
• Liliana Hepburn won the Bredls voucher
Mayor Ry Collins opened the festival and he praised the festival's support of the unique celebration of arts, culture and community in the Whitsundays.
“A huge congratulations to Creative Connections Whitsunday for their vision and effort in bringing the festival to life,” he said.
“I, like many of you would have seen the creative little wallaby cutouts placed strategically around the region created from a fantastic collaboration between the Proserpine Men’s Shed and our local school kids painting them with flair – it’s inspiring to see the whole community come together through art.”
hero - Creative Connections Whitsundays - Lucy Robinson-Tillett, Alinda Forrester, Lynette Edwards, Leigh Stead, and President Glenda Brown.
Ready Set Dance Group
Avril, Carmen, Sue, and Rebecca
Natalie Lock, Gary Brown, Kerry Aspland, and Di Forster
Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins opening the 2025 Proserpine Rock Wallaby Festival. Photo sourced: Facebook
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Last week, I had the privilege of joining members of our community at the candle lighting ceremony in Airlie Beach - a moving tribute to those who have lost their lives to domestic and family violence. It is always a powerful reminder that behind every statistic is a real person and a grieving family and community.
May is Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month, and this year’s theme - Take positive action today to build a safer Queensland - calls on each of us to be part of the solution. Domestic and family violence does not discriminate. Its impacts reach far beyond the home, touching schools, workplaces and communities.
It’s a sad reality that this issue remains widespread. That’s why we must continue to shine a light on it – not just in May, but all year round. Ongoing awareness helps drive change, strengthens laws and supports those experiencing violence to find safety and hope.
Each of us has a role to play. By speaking up when we see harmful behaviour and being someone others can trust, we help create a safer future for everyone.
While this month serves as a powerful reminder of the serious work still to be done, it's also important to acknowledge the positive initiatives taking place across our region.
Last weekend, our community came together at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre for the inaugural Rock Wallaby Festival. I had the pleasure of attending the opening night, and it was pleasing to see such a strong turnout supporting this new local event.
The festival was a fantastic showcase of local talent and creativity, featuring an art exhibition, a wallaby treasure hunt, family-friendly activities, handmade markets and a special Mother’s Day morning tea. It was a great opportunity for residents and visitors to engage with our town's vibrant arts scene and community spirit.
A personal highlight for me was seeing our local businesses, artists and volunteers come together to bring this vision to life.
Thank you to all the organisers, sponsors, community groups and volunteers who made this event possible. We look forward to seeing the Rock Wallaby Festival grow even bigger and better in years to come.
The Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre and the Bowen Community Centre were both chosen to be the local beneficiaries of this year’s Mayor’s Charity Ball on Saturday 26 July 2025, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, alongside BMA CQ Rescue as the regional beneficiary.
These centres provide essential services to educate, support and assist our local communities, particularly those most vulnerable. Residents can access opportunities to enhance their health, social, educational and economic well-being.
The Mayor’s Charity Ball generates funds to support beneficiaries through ticket sales, auctions and sponsorships. To date, there are currently two Platinum Sponsors on board, Lowcock Builders and Airlie Beach Hotel, but there’s plenty of room for more sponsors - of all levels!
For more information on how you can get involved and help these amazing charities, search for Mayor’s Charity Ball on Council’s website.
The community came together in solidarity last week when over 50 people gathered in Cannonvale on Wednesday for a poignant Candle Lighting Ceremony to honour those lost to domestic and family violence (DFV).
Organised by Whitsunday Counselling and Support as part of Domestic and Family Violence Awareness Month, the event sought to raise awareness and reflect on the ongoing issue.
Attendees included Mayor Ry Collins, Councillor Jan Clifford, Sergeant Gary Hiles from Queensland Police, Dr. Alice Harriott from Dancing CEOs and more. Together, they reaffirmed the need for collective efforts to combat domestic violence and create a safer, more respectful society.
More than 50 people gathered in Cannonvale last Wednesday for the Candle Lighting Ceremony, held to honour and remember those who have lost their lives to domestic and family violence (DFV).
The event was organised by Whitsunday Counselling and Support as part of Domestic and Family Violence Awareness Month, which is observed throughout May.
Manager of Whitsunday Counselling and Support Sharon Parker said the day's objective was to come together to raise awareness and remember those people that have lost their lives due to domestic and family violence.
“While we know that violence can happen to anyone, the data for domestic and family violence is very clear, the people predominantly being killed due to domestic and family violence are women,” she said.
“As unpalatable as it may seem, gendered violence is real, with women significantly more likely to be victims of domestic violence and men more likely to be perpetrators.
“While governments have been working hard to make legislative changes to address the issues of domestic violence, and despite an increase of awareness in the general population, deaths due to domestic violence continue to rise, with approximately one woman being killed every four days.”
Queensland Police Service (QPS) Sergeant (Sgt) Gary Hiles spoke about how changing behaviours can result in a safer community.
“Not all disrespect towards women results in violence, but all violence against women starts with disrespect and harmful attitudes," he shared.
“Gender inequality and ingrained harmful attitudes and behaviours towards women are key drivers of domestic and family violence. We all have a key role to play to change the culture and challenge the harmful attitudes that underpin this form of violence in our communities.
“A safer Queensland can start with you, by taking positive action today, we can build a violence free community together, domestic and family violence is a community issue.”
Sgt Hiles also spoke on the QPS collaboration with the Queensland Government.
“The QPS are working closely with Queensland Government departments, the DFV sector and community groups,” he said.
“Taking action today and every day to build a safer Queensland. While police will continue to do everything possible addressing DFV requires collective effort. It cannot be achieved by law enforcement alone.
“It's everyone's responsibility to treat others with kindness and respect.”
Dr Alice Harriott from Team Whitsundays Dancing CEOs also spoke at the event, and expressed the Dancing CEOs role in DFV.
“Dancing CEO’s is the major fundraising event for Women's Legal Service Queensland,” Alice began.
“Women's Legal Service Queensland is an organisation that provides essential and critical assistance and legal advice to tens of thousands of women experiencing domestic violence each year in Queensland.
“The event, of course, will be lots of glitz, but while we're dancing and having a whole lot of fun, there will be women all across this state who are seeking and needing the Support of Women's Legal Service Queensland.
“That absolutely isn't lost on us, and that's absolutely our why. We are raising money for Women's Legal Service Queensland and raising awareness of the impact that domestic violence has in our community.”
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins, Sergeant Gary Hiles, Councillor Jan Clifford, and Manager of Whitsunday Counselling and Support Sharon Parker at the Candle Lighting Ceremony held in Cannonvale last week. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
Whitsunday Counselling and Support - Niamh Mulvihill, Alex Sambrooks, Charlotte Jones, Andrea Bradley, and Sharon Parker
It’s been an exciting and busy week in Bowen with the anticipated rocket launch, the start of the Grey Nomad season and some of the winter crops now in full swing.
The crew from ABC Radio broadcasted live on Wednesday from the Big Mango and then live from; 360 on the Hill' in Bowen on Thursday, speaking to various businesspeople and community reps.
They also visited Bowen State School, talking to the kids about the rocket launch and what they had been learning about space.
Presenter Susan Graham-Ryan said it was a great week to be in Bowen.
“Our show is broadcast across all areas of regional Queensland, meaning Bowen was certainly in the spotlight.”
Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy told listeners that there had been a lot of excitement in the town and the entire region about the Gilmour Space Rocket Launch.
“We have certainly seen an increase in the number of visitors this week,” she said.
“It is also the start of our traditional grey nomad season, so the numbers have been steadily increasing since the beginning of May.
“In April, we welcomed more than 4500 visitors to the Bowen Visitor Information Centre next to the Big Mango – a 6% increase on last year.”
CEO of Bowen Gumlu Growers Association (BGGA), Jenn Honnery spoke on the ABC about the winter crops including tomatoes, capsicums, beans, corn and zucchinis.
She said the wet start to the year had caused some delays, but most growers were now on track and looking forward to the harvest starting soon.
Jenn also said the growers’ association had been working with local schools, encouraging primary students to eat more fruit and veg.
Contributed with thanks to Bowen Tourism & Business
ABC presenter Susan Graham-Ryan with Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy at the Big Mango. Photo supplied
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