In every workplace, people (especially introverts) obsess over the right words—what to write in an email, how to have impact in a meeting, how to sound like I have the answers. But here’s the truth: what really sets you apart it’s not what you say, it’s how you say it. Non-verbal communication  — your body language, tone, and energy—is the game-changer.

Around 80% of communication is non-verbal. So before you’ve even opened your mouth, people are reading you. They’ve already decided if you’re trustworthy and worth listening to. We can have the same skills and experience, but the person who is aware of their non-verbal cues and communicates with genuine warmth will instantly stand out.

Non-verbal communication is awesome because it’s universal. A smile signals openness, crossing your arms can shut a conversation down before it even begins. People might forget your words, but they’ll never forget how you made them feel. And that feeling? That’s what builds trust, influence, rapport, and connection.

Being able to read non-verbal cues is just as powerful. When you notice someone’s body language change, you can adapt in real time. You can slow down, clarify, or reframe. That awareness makes you more in tune with the people around you. It’s like having a secret superpower in meetings, interviews, and team conversations. Even online, non-verbal communication speaks louder than ever. On video calls, eye contact, posture, and gestures all tell people whether you’re switched on or zoning out. Your lighting, your background, even how you sit—these things send messages before your words do.

Here’s the best part: this skill can be learned. Start by watching yourself. Notice your expressions, your tone, the space you take up. Then match your non-verbal signals to the message you actually want to send.

When your words and presence align, people don’t just hear you—they feel you. That’s when real impact begins. In a noisy workplace full of talkers, the person who masters non-verbal communication doesn’t need to shout to be heard. They simply stand out. Register for Building Emotional Intelligence Essentials now https://shiift.com.au/programs-workshops/

‍

The 2025 Whitsundays Job Fair has been hailed a success, bringing together local employers, job seekers, and service providers to strengthen connections across the region’s workforce.

Held at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on Tuesday 21 October, the event attracted more than 80 job seekers including school students, mid-career professionals, those returning to the workforce, and mature-aged candidates – many arriving prepared with résumés in hand. Several participants secured job interviews as early as the following day.

More than 25 businesses and service providers were represented, with additional businesses listing current vacancies and career opportunities on the Fair’s job board. Participating employers spanned the region’s key industries, including tourism, hospitality, agriculture, resources, education, health, and community services.

The Job Fair provided valuable opportunities for employers and service providers to connect with potential candidates, conduct informal interviews, and discuss local employment pathways.

It also served as an important platform for business-to-business networking, with discussions centring on key regional workforce themes. Among the hot topics discussed were:

   Strengthening local pathways: The need to build a stronger pipeline between schools, training providers, and local industry to ensure school leavers are aware of regional career options and encouraged to build their futures in the Whitsundays.

   Workforce accommodation: Continued demand for suitable housing and support services, particularly for seasonal workers and employees relocating to the region. Collaboration was identified as key to addressing these challenges and sustaining long-term workforce growth.

   Return-to-work and older workers: Many businesses recognised the value of experience, flexibility, and re-skilling opportunities to retain and diversify talent within the local workforce.

   Volunteerism as a pathway: Highlighted as a valuable entry point for individuals seeking to build skills, confidence, and community engagement.

   The rise of AI and digital transformation: Conversations explored how artificial intelligence and digital technologies are reshaping job design, productivity, and skill requirements. Employers agreed that continuous learning and digital readiness are vital to future regional prosperity.

Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s President Allan Milostic said “When we employ locals, we’re not just filling a role we’re investing in the capability and stability of our community.”

The Whitsundays Job Fair once again demonstrated the power of local collaboration in supporting workforce development, connecting people with opportunities, and strengthening the region’s economy and community resilience.

The Job Fair was hosted by the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Placements, and Workforce Australia Local Jobs with thanks to the Whitsunday Regional Council and Proserpine Entertainment Centre, and media partners Mackay and Whitsunday Life and StarFM.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce & Industry

‍

To honour Queensland Mental Health Week Bowen State High School's student support service team and students ran activities including a Mindfulness Market.

The Mindfulness Market held last Wednesday, was supported by local community agencies. Students took part in a variety of activities, including creating affirmation rocks, and enjoyed lively performances by both staff and students. The hospitality department also delighted everyone with chocolate mud cake and a range of sweet treats.

Bowen State High School Principal Rob Harris said that the Market was amazing and feedback was positive.

"We had a number of external support agencies attend as well including Girudala Health Team, Headspace Whitsunday, Whitsunday Suicide Prevent Network, Whitsunday Counselling and Support, Selectability and MADEC," he added.

"Our student services team did an amazing job to create an inclusion market for all student to connect with each other and staff. The information and activities provided an opportunity for students to engage in conversations about their mental health and wellbeing.

"Thank you to NQBP for providing a grant to support our mindfulness market. Well done to everyone who got involved in the activities."

On Friday last week, Bibigoo Yumba was buzzing with activity as students made their own anti-stress balls using rice and balloons.

The mental health socks were a huge hit, and Principal Rob Harris said they will continue to sell them to students and staff throughout the term.

‍

As we approach the end of October, it’s hard to believe how much has happened this year at the Bowen Community Centre. We have seen some of our families reach out about our Adopt a Family program, but unfortunately, we’ve received fewer donations this year than in previous years. To help boost our efforts, we’ve organised a community raffle with fantastic prizes! The first prize is valued at over $500, and at just $1.00 per ticket, it’s a bargain worth taking!

To recap on our Adopt a Family enterprise, if you would like to contribute, please consider dropping off a voucher. We collaborate with local services in Bowen who work with families in need. Last year, we helped over 50 people enjoy a wonderful Christmas, and with your support, we hope to do even more this year.

The Bowen Community Centre have recently moved back into the permanent office after six weeks in temporary accommodations. I want to extend my sincere gratitude to our homeless community members for their incredible patience during this transition. I truly apologise for any inconvenience we may have caused.

We often take basic amenities like hot showers for granted, and the lack of laundry and shower facilities has been particularly challenging for our rough sleepers. Our homeless individuals are some of the kindest people I have the privilege to work with, and it pains us to disrupt their access to essential services.

Thank you, Bowen community, for your continued support and understanding as we work to serve you better. Together, we can make a difference!

Contributed with thanks to Bowen Community Centre Executive Officer Stephanie Cora

‍

With Remembrance Day around the corner, Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, is encouraging local groups to apply for grants that allow the community to better honour and acknowledge the service of veterans.

The fact that the Burdekin electorate is home to a significant number of veterans meant the new funding program offered a potential boost for a community whose track record for honouring veterans was among the best in the state.

“You only have to look at the number of people who attend events like Remembrance Day, Vietnam Veterans’ Day and Anzac Day to see that this community is extremely proud of our veterans,” Mr Last said.

“On a per capita basis our community had made a huge contribution to many conflicts and that fact isn’t lost on locals, regardless of age.

“Unlike some countries, we don’t celebrate conflict; we commemorate and honour the brave men and women who serve.  I think it’s appropriate that, as a government, we provide funding that supports the community in making that commemoration possible.

“Whether it’s a new memorial, refurbishments of existing memorials or activities and equipment, there is funding available to ensure we continue to honour our veterans.”

Mr Last said the Honouring our Veterans program was the first step in the Crisafulli government’s commitment to implement a Veterans’ Strategy.

“Queensland is home to more veterans than any other state in Australia,” Mr Last said.

“Our approach is to not only support the more than 160,000 veterans and one way to do that is to ensure the community can honour their service.

“The strategy we are developing is not about duplicating existing services or taking over tasks from the federal government. It’s about finding ways that the state government can provide practical support with practical measures to support their transition to civilian life for example.

“We have begun in-person consultation with veterans and their families because getting the strategy right is vitally important. The last thing that veterans need is another layer of bureaucracy or a strategy that makes big statements but delivers very little.

“In terms of the current funding there is basically two areas that are currently being focussed on. One is capital works projects like refurbishments, upgrades and new memorials and the other area of focus relates to activities and events that educate and raise awareness.

“I’d encourage local groups and organisations to consider applying for funding and to think outside the square, especially if there is a need that they think is not currently being met.

“The community groups that help us honour our veterans deserve this support but, most of all, our veterans deserve it. I’m looking forward to seeing the applications from our community and for the positive effects that will have as we remember those who have given so much in our names.”

‍

If you are looking for a quirky Christmas gift that the whole family can enjoy, you are in for a treat when the most recent edition of Monopoly is released next month.

The “Big Things Australia” edition will be available at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre and will feature Bowen’s iconic Big Mango.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said the team were excited about the upcoming release.

“Big Things are very popular with travellers, and we are sure this will be a popular edition to our range of merchandise at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre,” she said.

“We still have copies of the Whitsundays edition which was released last year, and we are pleased that the Big Mango will now be featured on the board of the newest Monopoly game."

Monopoly is popular worldwide and originates from early in the 20th century. There are hundreds, maybe even thousands, of different versions.

“The Big Mango was named the “Best Big Thing” in Queensland earlier this year and is now featured on a $1 coin as part of a collector’s series produced recently by the Royal Australian Mint,” Leanne said.

“To now be featured on the newest edition of Monopoly tops off a great year for our iconic Big Thing right here in the Whitsundays.”

The 10-metre Big Mango was built in 2002 and is a replica of the Kensington Pride variety of mango as Bowen is the birthplace of that variety.

Contributed with thanks to Leanne Abernethy

‍

On November 5,1605, as a protest against the policies of King James 1, Captain Guy Fawkes tried to blow up the Houses of Parliament in London. This became known as the Gunpowder Plot. And from this, Cracker Night was born …

The “Proserpine Guardian” (October 26, 1940), published a plea from the fire brigade that “owing to the extreme dryness of the season, more than ordinary care and supervision is necessary to prevent the spread of fires through the use of crackers and bunger.”

Regulation 82, issued by the Police Department, stated that it was “was an offence to cast, throw or fire any fireworks into any highway, street, thoroughfare, or public place. Max Penalty of £5.

In a 1965 edition of Australian Women’s Weekly, journalist Margaret Sydney, referred to cracker night as “the same old nuisance every year … a nightmare for the fire brigade, a night of horror for many domestic cats and dogs, a worrying time for parents of small children, a blissful exciting time for those children neither too young or too old to be dazzled and delighted.”

Over the years, various shops in Proserpine sold a variety of crackers including penny ‘bungers’, jumping jacks, catherine wheels, starburst, golden rain, tom thumbs, bungers, roman candles and rockets. These stores included Lum Wan, George Tam, George and Thelma Porter at the Newsagency, The Co-op, Fausts Hardware, Ray Baumgarten’s fruit shop and Iris and Archie Campbell’s store (now West End).

Great preparation started weeks ahead. Old boxes, bits of wood, fence posts, old tree branches and scraps of paper were thrown onto a pile to make a bonfire in the backyard or a vacant lot, basically anything not nailed down. Many families set up their own backyard pile with Dad in charge holding matches in one hand and a box of fireworks in the other. The rest of the family stood back in awe and amazement as bright colours lit up the sky making thunderous bangs.

The “Proserpine Guardian” (November 19, 1954) attributed the cost of fireworks as the reason residents began pooling their crackers at the one big bonfire. So, behind the Church of England, a large bonfire was built by the Rector, the Leader and an enthusiastic offsider, and on top was placed a Guy suitably attired and stuffed. Sky rockets provided the best entertainment - some of them were truly magnificent, while others took off with a terrific swish, scaring the daylights out of some, and aiming right towards the crowd. Amazingly, there were no serious casualties however a few dresses were burnt, and quite a few nerves were shattered.

In June 16, 1988 a “Bonfire Night” - or morning - was held at the showgrounds, when the Bicentennial Beacon was due to go up in flames at 4.55a.m. Over 300 people enjoyed a mini-fireworks display courtesy of Mr. Ian Leet, who set off several mighty rockets, together with a monster fountain of coloured light from ground level.

Cracker night was banned in Queensland in 1972 and fireworks were made legal only for licensed public displays. General misuse, injuries, fire risks and pranks were the reasons for the ban. The Northern Territory still has an official cracker night on the 1st July - but only that one day from 6pm.

Today, instead of the excitement and anticipation of Cracker Night, governments and private business spend thousands of dollars on once-a-year displays such as New Year’s Eve – and our own Friday Night Show fireworks display.

For some of us, however, Cracker Night remains a great childhood memory.

Story courtesy Proserpine Historical Society Museum. Photo sourced from “Bright Star Fireworks Australia”.

‍

If you’re looking for a gentle, loving companion with a heart of gold, Ruia could be your perfect match!

Ruia is a stunning 2–3-year-old Bull Arab X (with maybe a touch of Boxer!) who was rescued from the pound and is now safe and thriving in care. This sweet girl has so much love to give and is patiently waiting for her forever family to discover just how special she is.

She’s affectionate, friendly and happiest when she’s with her humans – tummy tickles are her absolute favourite! Ruia enjoys her walks and playtime but is just as content relaxing by your side when it’s time to wind down.

About Ruia
• Dog friendly and enjoys the company of other pups
• Medium energy – loves her outings but settles beautifully at home
• Not yet tested with cats, chickens or livestock
• Super affectionate and thrives on attention

Health
• Desexed
• Vaccinated
• Microchipped
• Flea, tick and worm treated

Ruia’s photos don’t quite capture her loving eyes and beautiful personality, she truly shines in person. She’s ready for a family who will give her the love, care and stability she deserves.

If you would like to meet Ruia and see if she’s the perfect fit for your family, email Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue on bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com today!

‍

A heartfelt community event was held recently to raise funds and awareness for Dementia Australia, inspired by one local woman’s personal journey with her mother’s diagnosis.

Organiser Rebecca Ross said this year’s morning tea was her biggest effort yet after previously running smaller fundraising activities.

The motivation behind the event came from her mother, Gail, who was formally diagnosed in June with frontal, temporal, and vascular dementia.

“My mum has been my biggest drive for this,” she said.

“I am trying to create awareness, because lots of people still to this day, think it is a part of old age, but it’s not.

“Dementia is not a part of old age It's a whole other thing and a whole other scale.

“I think we sweep it under the carpet too much, and it needs some more attention brought to it.”

All proceeds from the raffle and entry donations were directed to Dementia Australia, supporting vital research and programs for those affected by the disease.

The morning tea drew a warm turnout of family, friends, and community members, with new faces attending.

Encouraged by the success, the organiser said she hopes to make it an annual event.

‍

Rebecca Ross, Gail Crowther and Cheryl Crowther.
Jane and Brigid
Makenzie and Ethan
Merewyn Wright, Julie Aadrians and Nicky Dyer

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

‍

Above and Below Gallery has been awarded GOLD in the Retail and Services category at the 2025
Tourism Whitsunday Awards, recognising the gallery’s outstanding contribution to the Whitsundays’
tourism and creative industries.

Owner and photographer Brooke Miles said the recognition is a proud moment for the entire team and a reflection of the gallery’s dedication to sharing the beauty of the Whitsundays through art, along
with its reputation for great customer service.

“This award means so much to us,” Brooke said.

“Above and Below Gallery was created to share the natural beauty of the Whitsundays through high-quality art and gifts; from my camera’s perspective, and through prints that I feel truly capture the essence of our region.

“To be recognised among so many amazing local businesses is an incredible honour.

“I truly feel we go that extra step to ensure not only the product is perfect, but also our systems, team development and customer service.”

Located at the Boathouse Retail Precinct at The Port Of Airlie, Above and Below Gallery is known
for its breathtaking photographic art featuring the Great Barrier Reef, Whitsunday Islands and North
Queensland coastline.

The gallery’s prints, gifts and homewares are inspired by the vibrant landscapes
both above and below the surface.

“We’re so proud to represent local art and photography on the big stage,” Brooke added.

“This award is for also for my team, whom without I would be lost! Thanks to my team, Alicia, Katie, Kerry and Eira. Also, everyone who supports local, from our visitors and collectors to our small local makers. It’s a wonderful thing, to be able to do what we love, and love what we do!”

Photo credit: R Jean Photography

‍

It was another golden night for BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort, taking out Gold in the Caravan and Holiday Parks category at the 2025 Whitsunday Tourism Awards on Saturday evening.

The gala event, held at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, brought together tourism operators and businesses from across the region to celebrate excellence and innovation within the Whitsundays’ vibrant visitor economy.

For BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort, this latest Gold adds to an incredible track record of success. Following Gold wins at the Whitsunday, Queensland, and Australian Tourism Awards last year - and induction into the Hall of Fame at all three levels - the resort continues to shine as one of Australia’s most awarded and loved holiday destinations.

CEO Phil Casey, who attended the event with ten team members representing departments across the business, said the award was a proud moment for everyone at the resort.

“Winning Gold again this year is such an honour and a wonderful recognition of our team’s passion, hard work and commitment to delivering outstanding holiday experiences,” said Phil.

“It was especially rewarding to share the night with a group of our amazing team members from across the resort. Every single person plays a part in creating the friendly, family atmosphere that makes BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort so special.”

Phil said the recognition reinforced the resort’s dedication to maintaining high standards while continuing to evolve and invest in the future.

“We’ve enjoyed an incredible few years of success at every level of the tourism awards process, and we’ve been proud to represent the Whitsundays on the state and national stage,” he said.

“Our focus is always on enhancing our guest experience, and we’re really excited about the future with some new developments on the horizon that will bring even more reasons for families to visit and love the Whitsundays.”

Located on 10 hectares of lush tropical gardens in Airlie Beach, BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort is known for its extensive facilities and signature family-friendly atmosphere. The resort offers a wide range of accommodation options - from camping and caravan sites to luxury condos and accessible cabins - alongside more than 15 onsite activities including the popular waterslide park, lagoon-style pool, mini golf, and animal park.

Phil said the evening highlighted the strength and diversity of tourism offerings across the Whitsundays and the potential for continued growth in the years ahead.

“The calibre of products and experiences demonstrates just how strong the Whitsundays tourism industry is. With continued investment, innovation and collaboration, the future for our region looks incredibly positive,” he said.

Photo credit: R Jean Photography

‍

Bowen’s famous Big Mango has added another accolade to its growing list of achievements, taking home Bronze in the Attractions category at the 2025 Whitsunday Tourism Awards.

Five members of the Bowen Tourism and Business team attended the event on Saturday night, along with committee chair Jenn Honnery, proudly representing the town’s most recognisable landmark.

The Big Mango is no stranger to success, having previously won Silver in the same category. The Bowen Visitor Information Centre, located next to the Big Mango, is also in the Hall of Fame for Visitor Services after taking home the top honour three years in a row.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said this topped off a great year for Bowen’s iconic Big Thing which was named the “Best Big Thing” in Queensland as part of the Queensland Day awards in June.

Travellers from near and far love visiting the Big Mango, which attracts thousands of visitors each year keen to snap a selfie with the 10-metre-tall structure. The Visitor Information Centre, next door, features more than 300 brochures showcasing destinations across Queensland and is staffed by a dedicated team of locals and volunteers who pride themselves on their regional knowledge. Leanne also expresses her thanks to all of them, without them they couldn’t do what they do.

The centre also offers mango sorbet, local produce, and a wide range of Bowen merchandise. Bowen Tourism and Business extended thanks to Tourism Whitsundays, the committee, the Whitsunday Regional Council, and their team for their ongoing support.

Photo credit: R Jean Photography

‍

With passion, grit and decades of guiding experience under her belt, Cherene Poidevin of Driftwood Tours has claimed GOLD in the Land-Based Tours category at the 2025 Whitsunday Tourism Awards, and she did it as a one-woman team.
“I want to jump up and click my heels!” Cherene laughed. “After guiding many years for others and giving it 100%, it is a dream to do it for myself now and give it 150%.”
This is not her first brush with success. Driftwood Tours was awarded Gold for Best New Tour Business in 2023 and took home Bronze for Cultural Tourism and Finalist for Tour Operator in 2024.
Cherene attributes her win to a focus on genuine, friendly service and attention to detail. “Every guest should feel welcomed and seen,” she says. “I have a passion for history, the stories, nature, and guests enjoy that I can chat to them about these and make the tours engaging and immersive.”
With over 30 years of experience in outdoor recreation and guiding, Cherene still attends professional development courses yearly to maintain high standards. “I am sole owner and operator,” she says proudly.
She thanks “The whole world! Guests, agents, locals and my friends,” for their support.
With the introduction of a separate land-based category, Cherene believes the change “gave those operators a chance to be recognised and that it is not only the islands that have fantastic experiences.”
“What a daily buzz to be able to take visitors from all over the world to experience this paradise,” Cherene emphasised.

‍
Photo credit: R Jean Photography

‍

Ocean Rafting has added another accolade to its impressive collection, taking home Gold in the Best Marketing category at this year’s Whitsunday Tourism Awards.

The win marks yet another milestone for the long-standing family-owned business, which has been showcasing the beauty of the Whitsundays and Great Barrier Reef for more than 25 years. Over that time, Ocean Rafting has become a multi-award-winning operator at local, state, and national levels, recognised for excellence, innovation, and sustainability in tourism.

Nathan Fleming, Sales and Marketing Captain for Ocean Rafting, expressed pride in the achievement.

“We couldn’t be prouder to receive this award,” he said.

“Jan and Pete Claxton, along with their sons Cole and Kerr, have been the heart and soul of Ocean Rafting for more than two and a half decades. Their passion, dedication, and love for showcasing the Whitsundays to the world have built this iconic brand — and having this stunning region as our backdrop makes it all the more special.”

Ocean Rafting’s winning formula lies in its combination of adventure, authenticity, and environmental care.

The company’s eco-certified tours take small groups on exhilarating journeys to remote snorkelling sites and beaches around Whitehaven Beach and the Great Barrier Reef, offering guests an unforgettable experience that balances excitement with education.

“What truly makes us shine is our people — a passionate team of locals and Master Reef Guides who share their knowledge and love for the reef every day,” said Nathan Fleming.

“Our custom-built vessels allow guests to access remote snorkelling sites and beaches that others simply can’t reach, delivering a one-of-a-kind experience that’s both exhilarating and educational.”

In addition to its ongoing conservation and eco-tourism initiatives, Ocean Rafting recently expanded its operations by acquiring Hamilton Island Water sports from the Harvey family on July 1, 2025, a move that extends its reach across the Whitsundays.

The team expressed gratitude to their staff, industry partners, and the local community for their continued support over nearly three decades.

Reflecting on this year’s refreshed awards format, Ocean Rafting praised the approach for celebrating a broader mix of local operators.
“The new format was a fantastic opportunity to shine a light on some of the hidden gems in the Whitsundays — operators who may not always have the resources or time to put together award submissions,” they noted.

“It brought a fresh energy and new vibe to the event, allowing a wider mix of local businesses to be recognised and celebrated.”

With its latest Gold win, Ocean Rafting continues to set the standard for excellence in tourism marketing, adventure, and sustainability.

Photo credit: R Jean Photography

‍

A local favourite in the Whitsundays tourism scene has once again been recognised for excellence, taking home Gold in the Self-Contained Accommodation category at the 2025 Whitsundays Tourism Awards.

Since taking over the property in July 2021, Paul and Francine Tuddenham have collected an impressive list of accolades, including the 2022 ARAMA Resident Manager of the Year (Short Term), the 2022 Whitsundays Tourism Award for Excellence in Customer Service, and the 2024 Best of Queensland Accommodation Award.

This year, they added another ARAMA title and were also named on the Queensland Tourism Council’s Gold List of Australian Accommodation – Self Catering.

“The award means a lot to us, and we are very grateful and humbled to have won it,” they said.

“Winning an award from Whitsunday Tourism, ARAMA, or Queensland Tourism is a big accomplishment for us and we value it highly.”

Paul and Fran believe what makes Peninsula Airlie Beach so successful is their passion and personal service.

“We both love what we do, it has become part of our life as we live on-site and work in the business 7 days a week,” said Paul.

“We also provide a personal service to our guests by treating the guests the way we would like to be treated.”

They extended thanks to their team, including Office Manager Dorothy, handymen and gardeners Steve and Lex, the cleaning team lead by Neve, and the property owners.

“Thank you to all the award winners, nominees, and sponsors. We are proud to be part of the Whitsundays and the tourism industry.”

‍