With ANZAC Day approaching, locals gathered at Proserpine Cemetery on Saturday 18^th April to pay tribute to the nearly 400 service men and women laid to rest there; a local tradition organised by Lyn Burke which is now in its eleventh year.  

The event saw flags placed beside the graves of veterans, including Boer War veterans, Gallipoli survivors, Rats of Tobruk, Prisoners of War, Commandos & many more.

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Aquarium Coral Photo supplied

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Flying under the radar is a little-known fishery that operates within one of the world’s most iconic ecosystems: coral harvesting. 

Many Australians would be surprised to learn that the Great Barrier Reef supports the country’s largest coral fishery. Each year, up to 190 tonnes of coral are removed from the Reef, much of it destined for the domestic and international aquarium trade. Among these are some of the Reef’s most unique and visually striking species—highly prized, yet ecologically vital. 

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The Great Barrier Reef is often celebrated for its beauty and biodiversity, but it is also an ecosystem under immense stress. Climate change has driven increasingly frequent and severe mass bleaching events, while cyclones and flooding have compounded the damage. Together, these disturbances have contributed to some of the most significant declines in coral cover ever recorded. 

Against this backdrop, the harvesting of live coral raises difficult questions. Many of the same species targeted by the Queensland Coral Fishery are those already vulnerable to bleaching and mortality. Removing healthy corals from the ecosystem can reduce the Reef’s natural capacity to recover from disturbances, potentially undermining broader conservation and restoration efforts. 

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This creates an apparent contradiction. Governments have invested heavily in protecting and restoring the Reef, funding initiatives aimed at improving water quality, supporting coral regrowth, and enhancing resilience. Yet, at the same time, a regulated industry continues to extract coral from the wild. 

To be clear, the fishery does not operate without oversight. Strict quotas, spatial zoning, and licensing conditions are in place to manage harvesting. Exceeding quotas or collecting coral from protected “green zones” can result in significant penalties. 

Enforcement, however, remains an ongoing challenge. In 2016, the first prosecution for illegal coral harvesting since the 2003 rezoning plan occurred in Gladstone, where divers were caught collecting coral in a no-take zone. Since then, there have been more than 20 prosecutions linked to illegal coral collection within the marine park, many involving commercial operators. 

Such incidents raise concerns about the industry’s “social licence”—the level of public trust and acceptance it holds. Increasingly, reef tourism operators, scientists, and environmental groups are calling for tighter restrictions, with some advocating for a complete ban on wild coral harvesting. 

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Despite this, the fishery continues. In 2024, it received federal approval to operate for another three years. Authorities have indicated that a revised ecological risk assessment and updated harvest strategy will be completed by 2026, potentially shaping the industry’s future.

That future may lie beyond the Reef itself. Aquaculture—growing coral in controlled tank environments—has long been promoted as a sustainable alternative. It offers the potential to supply the aquarium trade without removing corals from the wild, easing pressure on an already stressed ecosystem.

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As the Great Barrier Reef faces an uncertain future, so does coral harvesting. For many, the answer is clear: the Reef’s corals are far more valuable alive, thriving in their natural habitat, than they are as commodities.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Conservation Council

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Whales of the Whitsundays team celebrating when the Whitsundays was formally recognised as a Whale Heritage Site. Photo supplied

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There are a lot of things that make the Whitsundays special. Beautiful islands, the great barrier reef, a wonderful community. But in addition to all of that – this region has special ecological features that the rest of the country can look upon with envy. Every year, the Whitsundays serves as a breeding ground and cohabitation spot for one of planet earths most magnificent creatures: the whale.  

A few years ago, a huge effort was put forward by the Whitsunday Conservation Council and Whale of the Whitsundays to make the area a Whale Heritage Area – resulting in a resounding success.  

This was particularly special because the Whitsundays was the first whale heritage site located in a UNESCO world heritage area and now features a special whale protection area zone.

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“It’s a major birthing zone for humpbacks. A lot of locals don’t realise how many humpbacks visit the area, let alone how significant the East coast population is,” said Kellie Leonard, Master Reef Guide and Whale of the Whitsundays member.  

Every year humpback whales migrate from the Antarctic to the warm water of the Great Barrier Reef – this is due to take place in just a few weeks.  

In 2009, researchers discovered that whales gave birth right here in the Whitsundays. The Whitsundays is proven to be a perfect location for breeding thanks to deep troughs close to shallow reef, where whales can give birth and then move their calves to shallow water.  In shallow water there is less chance of predator attack from below and the mother can support the calf near the surface so it can breathe. 

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The establishment of thriving breeding ground is incredible for a species that were almost wiped out decades ago due to mass illegal whale culling.  

“They recovered amazingly from the whaling in the 60s. Their comeback is quite a remarkable story,” shared Ms Leonard.

Another fascinating and beautiful aspect of whales and whale research, is whale’s songs.  

The local organisations in collaboration with Queensland University has carried out significant research into one of nature’s most interesting phenomena.

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“We have been recoding humpback whale songs in the Whitsundays during the past two whale seasons. The songs are submitted to the University of Queensland, specifically the Centre for Marine Science,” added Ms Leonard.

With the help of the director – Professor Michael Noad and PhD student Genevieve Williams, the research has provided incredible findings.

“The songs of these whales are one of the most complex acoustic displays of any animal known. Social sounds are made by all whales; however only male humpback whales sing songs.”

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The songs even have a structure.  

“There are seven individual populations of humpback whales in the southern hemisphere. The Australian East Coast humpback whales are a single population. Amazingly, all males in one population sing the same song.”

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Humpbacks can be located based on the content of their song. They listen to each other’s song and incorporate each other’s evolutions as part of their social learning.

Songs are recorded through a hydrophone – an underwater microphone connected to an amplifier and recording device. Humpback whales can be recorded from 5 to 10 kilometres away.

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Kellie has personally recorded whale song off the coast of Hamilton Island and posted it to Facebook.

“Often, I’m in the water with a hydrophone. I can’t see them, but I know they’re there.”

Whale research and sighting may seem reserved for experts, however, Whale of the Whitsundays are actively urging the broader community to get involved.  

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“There is an app called Eye of the Reef. All you need to do is upload photos and videos of sightings you have.”

Whale of the Whitsundays will be hosting an information night on the 19^th May at the Whitsunday Sailing Club at 6.30pm.  

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WHAT: Whitsunday Whale Heritage Area Information Night

WHEN: 19^th May, 6.30pm

WHERE: Whitsunday Sailing Club

Troy Liesch is a Property Specialist with the Taylors Team, bringing many years of experience in the sale of rural and residential property across Central Queensland and the Whitsundays region.

With a strong background in both lifestyle and acreage markets, Troy offers a grounded, practical approach to real estate, supported by extensive local knowledge and a deep understanding of what drives successful property outcomes in regional Queensland. His experience allows him to confidently guide clients through every stage of the selling process, from appraisal through to settlement.

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Now part of the Taylors Team, Troy continues to build on his reputation for professionalism, reliability, and commitment to achieving the best possible results for his clients.

Outside of real estate, Troy is firmly rooted in the Whitsundays community, where he lives with his wife and their three children. Family life plays a central role for him, and he enjoys spending his time supporting his children’s sporting activities, attending dance events, and socialising with friends and neighbours throughout the region.

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For enquiries or property advice, Troy can be contacted on 0428 646 599 or via email at troy@tpsre.com.au.

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Dan has been involved in the property industry all his working life.

His early years were spent in the Lands Department (now the Department of Natural Resources) carrying out rental assessment valuations for Crown Land in various centres of Queensland including Rockhampton, Hughenden, Emerald, Longreach, Winton, Cloncurry and Mackay.

During that time, he became a Registered Rural and Urban Valuer and was promoted to the position of Assistant Land Commissioner prior to his resignation from the Government Department.

In 1984, Dan took over the management of the Valuation Department of Blacks Real Estate before setting up his own private valuation business in 2003, which operated successfully until mid 2013.

Dan and wife Kerry have lived in Mackay for over thirty years and have a son Dylan and daughter Kara.

Outside of work, Dan has an interest in most sports, particularly Rugby. He is a Life Member of Brothers Rugby Club and spent twelve years coaching the senior boys rugby team at North Mackay State High, winning several premierships.

With a wealth of experience in the property market, Dan returned to Blacks Real Estate as a Sales Consultant in August 2013.

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‍ Last Friday’s Barrier Reef Night Markets brought great energy to the Mackay City Heart, with locals enjoying a vibrant evening of handmade, unique stalls while supporting community causes. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Cadence Rooney, Belinda Rooney, Andrew Rooney and Abigail Rooney

Ella Barr, Elle Jung and Kaylah Dowson

Brock, Aliara, Tayla, Jesse, Anna-Lisa and Nigel

Veleisha, Valerie and Brianna

Paul Te Tau and Bryony Te Tau

Simon

Justin, Natalie, Paul and Chrissy

Brittany, Mikayla and Louella

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Nestled in the lush foothills of the Pioneer Valley, Finch Falls Retreat spans 13 acres of open space and native rainforest, offering a tranquil escape where families can reconnect with nature at their own pace. Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, the retreat is a sanctuary for walking, riding, or simply unwinding amidst the serene environment. Throughout the grounds, inviting seating areas provide the perfect spot to pause, relax, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

The retreat’s two-bedroom Eco Lodges are thoughtfully designed with families in mind, comfortably accommodating two adults and up to four children. Each lodge features a fully equipped kitchenette and private ensuite, ensuring every stay is convenient and relaxing. Strategically spaced throughout the retreat, each lodge includes its own private deck and undercover BBQ area, which is ideal for enjoying a morning coffee or a family dinner immersed in nature.

Beyond luxury accommodation, Finch Falls Retreat is also a haven for native wildlife. The grounds have undergone a large-scale restoration, with hundreds of native trees and plants introduced to rejuvenate the landscape. As guests wander through the retreat, they may spot an abundance of local wildlife in their natural habitat, making nature an integral part of every stay rather than just a backdrop.

Young explorers are well catered for, with play equipment thoughtfully placed throughout the retreat. Children can enjoy a mud kitchen, cubby house, and playground, while the gently flowing creek offers a safe, shallow space for splashing and exploration most of the year. For those seeking further adventures, Finch Hatton township is just minutes away, offering a playground, pump track, and access to larger natural swimming holes – so why not make it a memorable family day out!

Dining at Finch Falls Retreat is effortless and flexible. Each lodge’s kitchenette includes an induction cooktop, microwave, fridge, and Nespresso coffee machine, making it simple to prepare a relaxed breakfast, picnic-style lunch, or cosy dinner while surrounded by nature.

Finch Falls Retreat is ideally located at 564 Gorge Road, Finch Hatton, Queensland, just 8 kilometres from the town centre and 3 kilometres from the picturesque Finch Hatton Gorge. Accessible via sealed roads, the drive to the retreat takes guests through scenic farmland, rainforest, and mountain landscapes, setting the tone for a restorative stay in the heart of the Pioneer Valley.

Every element of Finch Falls Retreat, from the private Eco Lodges to the carefully restored grounds, wildlife habitats, and family-friendly amenities, has been designed to provide a whole-family experience.

Here, luxury and nature coexist, creating a serene and immersive escape where families can explore, unwind, and make lasting memories together.

finchfallsretreat.com.au

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The Whitsundays Writers Festival has been scheduled for Sunday 13 September 2026 with a one-day celebration of local authors, regional stories, and the readers who bring them to life.

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Whitsunday Marine Club, Airlie Beach, the festival promises an engaging, thought-provoking, and community-focused experience for all ages; well worth travelling for.

Festival-goers can look forward to two intimate panel discussions, exploring the journey from inspiration to publication, and the creative sparks that drive storytelling. Hear from talented local authors as they share insights, experiences, and advice for aspiring writers. The day will also feature author readings, the presentation of the Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards, and Stories by the Sea — a lively book buy-and-swap event celebrating local voices and community participation.

Stay tuned for full program details and ticket releases, and don’t miss your chance to be part of the region’s premier literary celebration.

Calling Local Authors – Expression of Interest Now Open!

Are you a published author living in the Mackay region? We’d love to hear from you!

For the 2026 Whitsundays Writers Festival, we’re inviting local authors to express interest in joining two engaging panel conversations.

Local authors can also confirm a dedicated space to sell books directly to festival attendees.

EOI deadline: 11:59pm, Saturday 28 February 2026
Complete the online form: 2026 Expression of Interest – Whitsundays Writers

Start writing! 2026 Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards

We’re excited to announce the 2026 Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards, celebrating the next generation of Australian storytelling. This year’s awards include:

Best Short Story – Adult & Under 18 divisions
First prize: $1,000 | Runner-up: $500Up to 3,000 words of unpublished creative fiction

Poetry PrizeFirst prize: $1,000 | Runner-up: $500Up to 50 lines of unpublished poetry
Judged on originality, creativity, and expressiveness

Entries open 16 March to 30 June 2026 with a $20 entry fee.

These awards are a vital investment in Australian literary culture, giving local and national writers the chance to have their work recognised and celebrated. Don’t miss the opportunity to join a community that champions creativity, imagination, and the power of storytelling.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsundays Writers Festival.

What: Whitsundays Writers Festival

When:  Sunday 13th September 2026, 10:30am-4:30pm
Where: Whitsunday Marine Club, 7 Altmann Ave, Airlie Beach

1- The festival is calling for writers across the region to get in touch. Photo supplied

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Meet Bella.

Bella is an 8-year-old Cattle Dog Cross with the biggest heart of gold.

This sweet girl has so much love to give and is looking for a home where she can truly shine. Bella adores cuddles and will happily curl up beside you for hours—she’s the perfect companion for quiet nights and cozy mornings.

One of her cutest quirks? She loves to hide her treats instead of eating them right away—saving them like little treasures for later.

Bella is recently desexed, and fully vaccinated. She’s full of love and affection and ready to find her forever home.

Bella would thrive best in a home where she can be the center of attention. Bella prefers not to share her humans with other dogs, so she’s ideally suited to an older couple or a family without other pets. She just wants all the love for herself—and she’ll give it back tenfold.

If you're looking for a loyal, affectionate companion who will adore you endlessly, Bella might just be your perfect match.

Message Lucy’s Lucky Tags and Dog Rescue on Facebook to arrange a meet and greet.

1- Bella is looking for her person – is it you? Photo source:  Lucy’s Lucky Tags and Dog Rescue

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Seven students from Sarina State High School have been recognised for their musical talent after representing their school at the State Honours Ensemble Program in Rockhampton over the weekend.

Dallas Kuhl, Sarah Bradford, Lily Kuhl, Isabella Bradford, Ebony Hetherington, Lauren McFadzen and Millie Thomsett were selected to take part in the prestigious program alongside some of Central Queensland’s best middle school–aged instrumental music students.

The three-day program brought together talented young musicians from across the region for an intensive schedule of rehearsals and workshops. Over the course of the program, students completed 15 hours of practice under the guidance of some of Queensland’s leading conductors.

The experience culminated in a final concert, showcasing the students’ dedication and musical development following the intensive rehearsal period.

The opportunity provided the Sarina students with valuable experience performing in a large ensemble while collaborating with other young musicians from across Central Queensland.

Photo source: Sarina State High School

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After a strong turnout for the first event of the year last weekend, Art in the Park is set to return next month, bringing another day of creativity and community to Sarina.

Hosted by the Sarina Arts Council and Sarina Gallery, the outdoor event will once again take place under the trees at the Field of Dreams from 9am to 2pm.

The event invites locals and visitors alike to browse a range of locally created artworks, meet the makers behind the pieces and enjoy live music in a relaxed park setting.

Organisers said the first Art in the Park for 2026 last Sunday attracted a fantastic turnout, with many people stopping by to chat with artists, support local makers and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Those who missed the first event will have another opportunity to attend when Art in the Park returns on Sunday, May 3, promising another colourful day celebrating local creativity and community connection.

Photo source: Sarina Arts Council, Sarina Gallery

Residents of Walkerston and the surrounding Pleystowe district are being invited to come together once again for a moving 2026 ANZAC Day Dawn Service at ANZAC Park Walkerston, an early-morning commemoration honouring service and sacrifice.

The service will begin at 4.50am with veterans forming up at the Luscombe Memorial Tree, followed by a wreath-laying ceremony at 4.55am.

A march through ANZAC Park will follow at 5.00am, led by the Parade Commander, before the Dawn Service formally assembles at 5.10am. The program will include the flag at half-mast, the mounting of the guard, and a welcome address from Walkerston-Pleystowe RSL Sub-Branch President Rod Francisco.

The Dawn Service is expected to conclude at approximately 5.30am, after which attendees are invited to join veterans for breakfast at the Duke of Edinburgh Hotel.

Organisers are encouraging the community to attend and take part in the early-morning service, as Walkerston-Pleystowe comes together in reflection, remembrance and gratitude for those who have served.

Honouring Sacrifice And Finding A Service Near You

Attending a Dawn Service remains one of the most meaningful ways the community can honour those who served and sacrificed. Rising early in the quiet hours of the morning is seen as a small but powerful gesture of respect, reflecting the time of day when many soldiers prepared for battle and remembering the courage, loss and resilience of the men and women who served the nation.

Across the Mackay region, communities will come together at dawn and throughout the day on April 25 to commemorate ANZAC Day, with services scheduled across locations including Mackay, Sarina, Walkerston, Seaforth, Mirani, Marian, Eton, Calen and Finch Hatton, as well as other towns across the district. The Isaac region will also hold services, with further details to come.

Mackay Life will publish a comprehensive guide to local ANZAC Day services in next week’s edition.

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Behind every successful creative agency are businesses willing to take a leap, back a vision, and commit to building something meaningful. Real Conversations puts the spotlight on those businesses sharing, in their own words, how strategic branding and marketing have shaped their growth.

In today’s fast-moving, high-pressure business environment, good intentions alone aren’t enough. Real impact comes from clear strategy, practical skills and training that translates into the real world.

That’s where Shiift has built its reputation. Led by Judy Porter, whose background in behavioural psychology is matched by extensive real-world leadership experience, Shiift delivers a powerful blend of insight and application, understanding not just what people do, but why they do it.

Despite strong results and a growing track record, the team recognised there was a broader audience they hadn’t yet reached. To unlock that next stage of growth, they made the decision to revisit their brand and marketing approach, engaging redhotblue for a focused strategy and marketing workshop.

What followed was more than a refinement. It sparked clarity, challenged assumptions and opened up new ways of thinking,  creating momentum and genuine excitement for the new chapter.

We spoke with Director Judy Porter of Shiift, about that journey.

What clarity did you gain through the strategy and marketing workshop delivered by redhotblue, that you didn’t have before?

We recognised our messaging lacked clarity and our offering hadn’t been refined into a focused suite of services. By trying to do everything, we risked confusing potential clients about where our true strengths lie.

How would you describe your new brand in comparison to your old one?

Now far more targeted. Where we once said “yes” to everything ultimately diluting our brand we’ve taken a more disciplined approach, focusing only on what we do best.

This clarity has strengthened not only our positioning, but also how we communicate our value. Our core strength lies in equipping people with the skills and confidence to lead, manage, and work effectively with others—and by staying true to that, we deliver far greater impact.

How has your approach to marketing shifted since refining your brand?

Our marketing is now highly targeted across messaging, visuals, and tone. Where our social content once felt fragmented, it is now cohesive and recognisable each piece clearly identifiable as Shiift through its consistent use of colour, design, and language.

What role does consistency now play across your marketing from digital to print collateral?

A far greater role than before. Previously, our approach lacked consistency, and our tendency to continually “change things up” diluted our marketing. While I’m naturally driven to challenge the status quo and seek improvement, I’ve learned the value of discipline and consistency in building a strong brand.

Safe to say, our marketing is now best left in expert hands -  thank you team redhotblue.

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The countdown is on!  The 2026 North Queensland Games are fast approaching, set to ignite the region over the May Day long weekend.

Across the Greater Whitsunday region, families are feeling the pressure right now. The cost of living is hitting hard and many small businesses are doing it tough. Events like this matter as they bring people together and deliver benefits back into the community when it is needed.

We know our region is full of sporting talent. You only have to look at our local clubs each week. Young athletes, volunteers and families all showing up and backing each other. The North Queensland Games gives people a platform – the chance to compete and be part of something bigger without leaving home.

The North Queensland Sports Foundation has developed the Games around grassroot inclusive participation. Athletes of all ages and abilities can take part, build confidence and stay connected to sport. The real value of this event is in the connection it builds and the opportunities it creates across our community.

The economic benefit of hosting is immediate. Previous North Queensland Games have brought thousands of athletes and visitors into the region. What this means is more people are in our town supporting local businesses and enjoying everything this beautiful region has to offer. But beyond the dollars, there is a bigger picture.

The 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games are on the horizon and regional events like the North Queensland Games provide a pathway for our athletes to gain experience and exposure.  More importantly, it gives belief that their Olympic journey can start right here.

This is strengthened by Natalie Cook, who joins the 2026 North Queensland Games as an ambassador. Natalie competed in the North Queensland Games early in her sporting journey before going on to win an Olympic gold medal in volleyball. Her story shows what is possible when local opportunity meets hard work and community support.

The same can be said about Liam Paro, our homegrown former boxing world champion. Liam returns to the North Queensland Games as an Ambassador as well this year, a decade on from cutting his teeth as an amateur boxer as a teenager.

Over the long weekend we will see volunteers pitch in, local clubs work together, friends and families cheering from the sidelines. The shared experience is what makes our region stronger and more connected.

When community shows up, we build confidence in our people and we show the rest of North Queensland what our region can do. That is the legacy we build together.

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Access to reliable maternity services has long been a concern across regional Queensland, and for communities like Mackay, any step toward strengthening the local health workforce is a welcome one.

The State Government’s new Midwifery Clinical Facilitator Program promises to do just that, creating leadership roles for experienced midwives while boosting the number of graduates entering the system. With Mackay included among the Hospital and Health Services set to benefit, the initiative has the potential to make a real difference where it matters most: on the ground.

The reality is clear. Demand for midwives is rising, and regional areas are feeling the strain more than anywhere else. Workforce shortages, combined with an ageing cohort nearing retirement, mean that without intervention, access to maternity care could become increasingly stretched.

Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls did not shy away from the challenge.

“Our Workforce Gap Analysis made clear that without targeted action, Queensland will face worsening shortfalls in key frontline and maternity roles like midwifery, particularly in regional and rural communities,” Minister Nicholls said.

“After Labor neglected healthcare in the regions for a decade, the Crisafulli Government is restoring health services where you need them by delivering practical solutions to grow our own workforce, support our existing students and clinicians, and ensure Queensland families can access safe and high-quality health care, including maternity care, closer to home.”

For Mackay, the key will be ensuring this program translates into tangible, lasting improvements. Training more midwives locally is only part of the solution — retaining them is just as critical.

If done well, this initiative could help secure the future of maternity care in the region, ensuring families don’t have to travel far from home during one of life’s most important moments.

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