Community News

Legacy After Loss  Mackay Widower Recognised For Life-Saving Advocacy On State Stage

Legacy After Loss Mackay Widower Recognised For Life-Saving Advocacy On State Stage

Mackay father Phil Smith has been recognised on the state stage, receiving the Queensland New Volunteer Award for 2026 for his tireless work raising awareness around asbestos-related disease. Since the passing of his wife Leah in 2024, Mr Smith has devoted himself to advocacy and fundraising through Ride In Shorts For Leah, contributing more than 1,200 volunteer hours and raising over $42,000 to support education and prevention efforts. Leah, who was unknowingly exposed to asbestos in childhood, was diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma at 49 and passed away just over eight months later. Her story has since become the driving force behind Mr Smith’s public mission to warn others about the risks hidden in many Australian homes. Presented at Brisbane City Hall by the Governor of Queensland, the award recognises his ongoing commitment to community awareness and support. What began in the shadow of personal loss has grown into a wider campaign of education, remembrance and prevention, carried forward in Leah’s name. Mackay father Phil Smith has been awarded the Queensland New Volunteer Award for 2026 in recognition of his asbestos awareness advocacy and fundraising efforts inspired by the loss of his wife Leah. Photos supplied

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Peter Francis Continues Strong Real Estate Legacy In Mackay

Peter Francis Continues Strong Real Estate Legacy In Mackay

With nearly two decades at Blacks Real Estate, Peter Francis has built a reputation across Mackay for honest service, strong negotiation skills and consistent results. Joining the agency in 2008, Peter now serves as Director and Sales Consultant, helping vendors and buyers navigate the property market with a focus on professionalism and clear communication. Originally trained as a surveyor at the University of South Australia, Peter later transitioned into real estate, where he went on to achieve national and international recognition, including National Top 20 rankings on seven occasions and a Hall of Fame award during a previous role. Since moving to Mackay in 2004 with his wife Kylie and their family, Peter has become deeply involved in the local community, balancing a busy career with raising five children and contributing to school communities and the Mackay Chamber of Commerce. Known for his calm approach and ability to mediate between buyers and sellers, Peter said building trust with clients has always been central to his work. His long list of repeat clients and referrals reflects the strong relationships he has developed across the region over the years. Blacks Real Estate continues to operate from Wood Street in Mackay and Dysart Garden Plaza, servicing residential, commercial and rural clients across the region. CAPTION: Peter Francis, Director and Sales Consultant at Blacks Real Estate. Photo supplied

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Pets Of The Week:  Knox, Enigma, Rogue And Jinx

Pets Of The Week: Knox, Enigma, Rogue And Jinx

We need to talk about something that happens far too often – black kittens are usually the last to be chosen. Yet they are often the very best companions. These kittens are not just “another kitten”. They are the ones who follow you from room to room like your shadow. Who climb into your lap and stay there. Who greet you at the door like a dog and want to be involved in everything you do. They don’t just live in your home – they become part of your everyday life. Our black kittens are incredibly affectionate – true lap cats who crave human connection. They are confident and curious, often the first to explore and investigate. Playful and cheeky, they are full of personality and mischief. They are also highly social. They will chat to you, respond to you and connect with you. Once they choose you, they are yours completely. And in real life, they are absolutely stunning – with glossy coats, striking eyes, and an elegant, sleek presence that photos simply don’t capture. If you have ever wanted a cat that truly bonds with you, that seeks you out and becomes your constant little companion, come and meet our black kittens. Because once you meet them, you will understand. To register your expression of interest, please contact foster carer Janet on 0423 768 805. Contributed by Mackay Pet Rescue Inc

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The Invisible Load Women Carry And how the body quietly keeps score

The Invisible Load Women Carry And how the body quietly keeps score

There’s a type of exhaustion many women carry that doesn’t disappear with a good night’s sleep. It’s not just physical tiredness. It’s the constant mental juggling. Remembering school events, organising appointments, replying to messages, planning meals, checking homework, thinking ahead, caring for ageing parents, supporting friends, managing work deadlines, and somehow trying to look after yourself somewhere in between. Even during moments of “rest,” many women describe feeling like their brain never truly switches off. This invisible load is something women carry every day, and over time, the body often carries it too. As a women’s and pelvic health physiotherapist, I often see women who come in with symptoms like pelvic pain, bladder urgency, tension, leaking, headaches, jaw clenching, shallow breathing, or a feeling that their body is constantly tight or “on edge.” Many are surprised to learn that stress and nervous system overload can play a significant role in how the body feels and functions. When we’re stressed for long periods, the body naturally shifts into a protective state. Muscles tighten, breathing becomes shallow, sleep can be disrupted, and the nervous system stays on high alert. It’s a helpful response in short bursts, but when the body stays in that heightened state for weeks, months, or years, symptoms can begin to appear. And the pelvic floor is particularly influenced by this. Many people think the pelvic floor only matters during pregnancy or after birth, but these muscles respond closely to stress, posture, breathing, and tension patterns throughout the entire body. Some women unknowingly hold tension through their pelvic floor all day long, almost like clenching their jaw without realising. Over time, this can contribute to discomfort, urgency, constipation, pain, or difficulty fully relaxing the muscles. What’s important to understand is that this does not mean the body is “broken.” Often, it’s a body that has been coping, adapting, and carrying a great deal for a long time. And while exercise and movement are incredibly important, healing isn’t always about pushing harder. Sometimes it’s about creating moments where the body feels safe enough to soften and let go. That might look like slowing your breathing for a few minutes while sitting in the car before school pick-up. Going for a walk without turning it into another task to complete. Stretching before bed. Asking for help. Resting without guilt. Learning how to relax your pelvic floor, not just strengthen it. Small moments matter. Women are often exceptionally good at caring for everyone else while quietly ignoring their own symptoms. But tension, fatigue, and overwhelm are not simply things to “push through” forever. The body has a way of asking for attention eventually. If your body feels tight, tired, or not quite like itself, it may be worth listening with curiosity rather than criticism. Support can make a meaningful difference, whether that’s through movement, stress management, pelvic health physiotherapy, or simply giving yourself permission to slow down occasionally. Because women were never meant to carry everything alone, and the body shouldn’t have to either.

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Better Built Sheds

At The Table 12 September

September 22, 2025

Mackay Table Tennis Fixture Results

2nd September 2025
Evening Fixture Results

Coming close to the end of the season with only one week to go after this one, matches have been very close right across the 3 Divisions.

Division 1: Fish (Geoff Denman, Steven Whiting, Jacob Whelan) defeated Birds (Emma Widdup, Trent Day, Anne Sheridan) 7-4, Geoff having a very tight win over Anne 13-11 in 5th Set.

Bears (Lily Boland, Josh Brown, Lee Brake) defeated Ants (Vince Boeske, Barry Patterson, Robbie Richards) 6-5 with Robbie snuck home in the 5th Set against Josh 12-10.

Division 2: Cats (Will VanDaKaa, Graham Brake, Duncan Treloar) defeated Cows (Ian McKay, Tony Bowman) 9-2. Duncan had a close win over Ian in 5 Sets 11-5.

Dogs (Ivan Perkins, Mark Sleeman, Peter Goodson) defeated Owls (Andrea Nicholson) 8-3 with Andrea on her own, she won all 3 matches without dropping a set.

Tigers (Allan Edwards, Janice Kent) defeated Horses (Syed Aminul Hossain, Ollie Hamelink) 6-3. Allan had a great battle with Syed coming out on top 11-8 in 5th Set.

Division 3: Stiga (Simon Hogan, Vincent Neuhauf, Val Austin) defeated Butterfly (Mark Stam, Liz Burton, Logan Brown) 6-5 with Simon sneaking home in 5 Sets against Liz 11-9.

Tibhar (Ross DeBoer, Craig VanDaKaa, Marie Taylor) defeated Nittaku (Samuel Whelan, Noreen Frederickson, Melanie Theodore) 6-5 with Marie having a win over Samuel 11-7 in 5th Set.

Morning Fixture Results

Division 1: Bear Claws (Judy Zahn, Kevin Abbott, John McGee) defeated Shark Attack (Doug Dungavell, Peter Goodson, Marie Taylor) 8-4 with Peter having a close 5 Sets with Judy and winning 11-9.

Tigers Paw (Bryan Marshall, Tony Bowman, Ross DeBoer) defeated Wolf Pack ( Pam Joyce, Delma Knight, Virginia Clayton) 7-5. Delma made a good come back after being down to win 11-9 in 5th Set.

Lions King (Donna Abbott, Veronica Shepherd, Don Boettcher) defeated Eagle Wings (Branko Vucurovic, Noreen Fredrickson, Coral Morgan) 7-5. Coral having a great 5 Sets with Veronica by winning 11-9

Division 2: Python Spin (Louise Gould, Robyn Bushell, Kim Daffy) defeated Panther Pace (Frank Caruana, Iris Grasso, Gerry Synnott) 10-2 with Louise and Gerry battling it out as always, with Louise sneaking home 11-7 in 5th Set.

Rhino Charge (Helen Ware, Josie Davis, Pam Kuene) drew 6-6 against Falcon Flyers (Ken Best, John Hamelink, Ian Dodds), with Josie coming back from 2 Sets down to win in 5 against Ken 11-7.

Division 3: Captin Spins (Sharon Muller, Allison Day) defeated Spider Smashers (Laurie Bradshaw, Madge Saunders) 6-3. Sharon won close 5 Sets against Madge 11-8.

Bat Serves (Cheryl Pearson, Peter Taber, Glenda Brookes) defeated Iron Rallies (Ron Johr, Trish Zamparutti, Robyn Giles) 9-3 with Cheryl winning in 5 Sets against Ron 11-6.

Contributed by  Andrea Nicholson

Noreen Frederickson

Sharon Muller

Josie Davis. Photos supplied

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Airlie Beach Wins National Bronze

September 5, 2025

Airlie Beach has won Bronze in the Small Top Tourism Town category at the Australian Top Tourism Town Awards in Canberra on Wednesday 3 September. This is a huge award on the national scale and Bowen was also a nominee for the Top Tourism Town.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor was in Canberra for the announcement and said he was incredibly proud to see Airlie Beach recognised as the third best Small Tourism Town in the nation at the 2025 Australian Top Tourism Town Awards.

“This award is more than just a trophy as it reflects the passion, creativity and sheer determination of our local tourism operators, businesses, community groups and residents who all play their part in making Airlie Beach the vibrant and welcoming place it is today,” he said.

“What makes today even more special is that the Whitsundays was the only region in Australia to have two towns named as national finalists.”

Whitsundays Represent At National Awards
Region Once Again Is Proven As World-Class

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the Whitsundays success at the Australian Top Tourism Town Awards once again proves that the Whitsundays is a world-class tourism destination.

“From Bowen’s pristine beaches and rich history to Airlie’s gateway to the islands and the Heart of the Great Barrier Reef, our region offers experiences that are unrivalled anywhere in the world,” said Mayor Collins.

“To our operators, volunteers, community champions, and the many locals who welcome visitors with open arms, this is a victory for every person who calls the Whitsundays home.

“Together we are building a reputation second to none, and as we head full steam towards hosting sailing at the 2032 Olympic Games, these awards prove that the Whitsundays is not just competing with the best in Australia but proudly leading the way.”

Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth said it was a huge honour to end up with two towns listed as finalists to represent Queensland.

“With both Bowen for the top tourism town as a finalist, and then Airlie Beach winning bronze for the small tourism town is incredible outcome for the region. I'm very very proud,” he said.

“Bowen is going through a fair bit of growth at the moment with the potential of space tourism coming to Queensland, which is really, really exciting.

“We're seeing the biggest use of the Great Barrier Reef Marine, with about 130,000 more visitors than any other region along the Great Barrier Reef going out from Airlie Beach, which is incredible.”

“This award is very important to towns like Airlie beach and Bowen from an economic prospect.

“In Airle Beach, one in two jobs is in the tourism industry, so it's incredibly important. It's a fabric of our town and part of the region. The more that we can continue to grow it, the more economic success all of our businesses will have.”

Tourism Whitsunday CEO Tim Booth also said with the Skyway Project they expect to see more and more growth in the region, in particular Airlie Beach and he and the Tourism Whitsunday team look forward to next year’s awards with Gold in their sights.

Tourism Whitsunday CEO Tim Booth, Chair of Tourism Whitsundays Julie Telford, Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins, Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business Leanne Abernethy, and Bowen Tourism and Business Visitor Services Coordinator Glenn Womal. Photo supplied

Queensland was represented at the Australian Top Tourism Town Awards. Photo sourced: Facebook

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Meals, Smiles, and Community Spirit in Bowen

September 5, 2025

Good Deed Feed

In the spirit of community connection, Bowen Meals on Wheels received some extra helping hands this week as part of National Meals on Wheels Day.

Whitsundays Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins, Councillors Michelle Wright (Deputy Mayor, Whitsunday Regional Council), John Finlay (Division 6) joined Christine and the rest of the Bowen Meals on Wheels team to assist with meal deliveries across town.

The group spent the day delivering warm meals, friendly smiles, and cheerful conversations to local seniors — including Mrs Rodgers, who was delighted to catch up after missing the Bowen State School anniversary last weekend.

The initiative highlighted the incredible contribution of Meals on Wheels volunteers, who dedicate their time to ensuring older residents remain connected, supported, and cared for.

With heartfelt thanks extended to the Bowen Meals on Wheels team, the day was a reminder of the power of community spirit and the importance of looking after one another.

Mayor and Councillors join Meals on Wheels volunteers for the day. Photo supplied

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Ruth’s Recap 5 September

September 22, 2025

Hi Everyone!

I’m back from my travels around Western Australia and the Northern Territory and I’m excited to get stuck in again.

The trip was nothing short of incredible. There were plenty of long drives, but even more unforgettable views, gorges, towns and people. I feel so grateful to have had the chance to see more of this beautiful country and to experience a true Aussie road trip.

Along the way I picked up plenty of travel stories, tips and advice that I can’t wait to share in Ruth2Reef as well as in Tripping, our travel magazine that comes out every two months.

One highlight that stood out for me was Ningaloo Reef. The colours there are the complete opposite of the Great Barrier Reef yet just as breathtaking. While snorkelling I had the chance to swim alongside two sharks and a pair of humpback whales, and I was surrounded by schools of vibrant fish. It was an experience I’ll never forget.

Another lesson I took from my trip was the importance of slowing down and living in the moment. It’s so easy to get caught up in work, stress and day-to-day worries, but spending time in nature without phone signal, reminded me how valuable it is to simply switch off and be present.

Ruth
"Happiness is not something you postpone for the future; it is something you design for the present." - Jim Rohn

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Fire Beside Shute Harbour Road

September 5, 2025

At around midday on Sunday 31 August the Queensland Fire Department were made aware of a fire near Shute Harbour Road, Airlie Beach.

A smoke issue was given but Queensland Fire Department announced on Facebook that no properties were at risk, but the smoke should be avoided.

“Stay inside and close windows and doors as smoke could be harmful.” Was the advice given on the Facebook page.

A Queensland Fire Department spokesperson confirmed the fire was put out at around 4:05pm on Sunday 31 August.

The fire attracted attention on several Facebook groups. Photo source: Facebook

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Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Desperately Seeks Foster Carers

September 5, 2025

Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue is urging for more foster carers to step forward.

Unfortunately, they have been left in the position where they have been turning away animals.

With every foster home already full, the rescue centre is struggling to keep up with desperate requests even for animals facing euthanasia.

The rescue centre covers vet work, food, and ongoing support, while foster carers provide love, safety, and a temporary home. Every time someone fosters, it means one more dog or cat doesn’t have to be turned away.

Carers don’t need to commit forever. It can be short or long term, and the network extends from Mackay to Townsville and west to Majors Creek.

To find out more or apply to foster, message the Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Facebook page today.

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Celebrating Excellence At Bowen Gumlu Growers Gala Dinner

September 5, 2025

The Bowen Gumlu Growers Gala Dinner and Awards was held last weekend, bringing together the people who power the region’s vital agricultural industry. Among those in attendance were Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins and his wife Mel, who joined local growers, industry leaders and special guests for an evening of recognition and celebration.

The event highlighted the hard work, innovation, and commitment of the farming community, with several individuals and businesses acknowledged for their outstanding contributions. Winners included Stackelroth Farms, who received the Community Stewardship Award proudly sponsored by Whitsunday Regional Council; Rowan Munro, awarded Emerging Leader; Chris Monsour, recipient of the Agtech Impact Award; Vee Jay’s Kalfresh, named Farming Business of the Year; and Leanne Born, honoured with the prestigious Lifetime Recognition Award.

Guests also heard from guest speaker and MC Shane Webcke, along with Assistant Minister for Primary Industries and Water, Sean Dillon MP. BGGA CEO Jenn Honnery shared exciting updates on the association’s evolution and its refreshed brand identity as North Queensland Farmers.

The evening was a resounding success, with thanks extended to President Carl Walker, Jenn, Gill, sponsors, and all involved for shining a spotlight on agriculture’s central role in the community.

Mayor Ry Collins standing with some of the winners on the night
Celebrating the agricultural industry at the Bowen Gumlu Growers Gala Dinner and Awards

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Mounted Police Deployed In Airlie Beach

September 5, 2025

Last weekend the Queensland Police force deployed two horses to the streets of Airlie Beach.

Sergeant (Sgt) Ben Bassingthwaighte said the Brisbane based Queensland Mounted Police unit were in Airlie Beach and the surrounding areas in relation to high visibility controls, with the main focus of being visible in the community and being able to offer support.

“Horses are still relevant, even amongst modern technology, in that they're highly visible,” he said.

“They're there to provide safety for the community. They make the community feel safe.

“They are a very good connector for the community as well, the community really get a buzz out of seeing the horses. But they're also a great deterrent as far as crime.

“There are two sides to the same coin as far as their capability. So, they do attract people to come up and say hello. We're attracting a lot of community engagement, explaining why we're there, explaining community safety messaging and things like that.

“So they're great in that regard, but they're also a great deterrent.

“They can do the work of about four officers, particularly in crowded districts like here at Airlie Beach on Friday and Saturday night, which is supporting the police operations for the next two days; they provide a great presence in that regard.

Sgt Bassingthwaighte also said that patrol officers are commonly not seen, but having Police on main streets are highly beneficial.

“Most of our work is supporting frontline. 90% of our work is doing proactive control and supporting events to help police events and things of that nature, and that's why we're here today.”

Inspector Glenn Cameron said the main message Queensland Police wanted to convey is that the Police are part of the community.

“We want to get out there and engage with the community and make the community feel safe,” he said.

Availability of the Queensland Mounted Police unit varies but Inspector Glenn Cameron hopes it becomes a more regular deployment.

Sergeant Ben Bassingthwaighte and Lance

Sergeant Ben Bassingthwaighte and Lance, with Constable Debbie Bruntflett and Karma

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Council Refuse Mini Golf Dinosaur Activity Centre In Airlie

September 5, 2025

At the Whitsunday Regional Council Ordinary Meeting on Wednesday 27th August Mayor Ry Collins and Councillors voted 5–2 against the proposed Dinosaur Activity Centre development in Airlie Beach.

Mayor Ry Collins said the proposed mini golf activity was refused for a variety of reasons, including aesthetic, parking concerns, and a community petition that was heard by council.

“We all want to see new land-based activities come into Airlie Beach that give locals and visitors something fun to do, but this proposal just wasn’t the right fit,” he explained.

“The design didn’t sit well with the tropical look and feel of the Main Street, and with no car parking included it would have added to the pressure we’re already seeing in town.

“We also heard from the community loud and clear, with more than 20 submissions and a petition of over 500 signatures raising concerns about the visual impact and location.

"Councillors listened, and those issues were a big part of why the proposal wasn’t supported.

“Council is always open to new ideas that bring something fresh to Airlie, but they need to add to the character of the Main Street and make the most of the tropical setting we’ve got here.”

The entity which proposed the development kindly stated it would prefer not to comment.

The proposed Dinosaur Activity Centre on Main Street has been voted against. Photo sourced: Whitsunday Regional Council August Meeting

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Rare Elevated Homesites Selling At Airlie Summit

September 5, 2025

A rare opportunity is now on the market, with just 13 hillside lots offering sweeping views of the iconic Whitsundays, priced from $495,000.

With premium coastal land across the Whitsundays becoming increasingly scarce, buyers are turning their attention to Airlie Summit, one of the region’s last elevated masterplanned communities offering sweeping ocean views and a rare chance to build in a blue-chip location.

The Panorama Release, nestled within Alder’s $60 million hillside community, has already attracted strong interest from buyers seeking elevated coastal land. The release comprises just 13 premium homesites, ranging from 616sqm to 898sqm and priced from $495,000, each offering sweeping vistas over Coral Sea Marina, Port of Airlie Marina, Pioneer Bay and across to the Whitsunday Islands — all from a vantage point 200 metres above sea level and just minutes from the Airlie Beach town centre.

Alder’s General Manager of Development, Frank Galvin, said the release had generated strong enquiry from both local and interstate markets, drawn by the scarcity of elevated land and the lifestyle on offer.

“Whether you’re planning your forever home, investing in a growing market, or seeking a holiday retreat with strong letting potential, the Panorama Release delivers,” Mr Galvin said.

“This is one of the last significant elevated land holdings in the region, and with availability tightening and demand growing, it’s an ideal time to secure a slice of paradise. Buyers also have the opportunity to benefit from strong long-term growth potential in one of the Whitsundays’ most prestigious coastal addresses.”

Adding to the opportunity, Alder has also introduced the Luxe Design Collection – an exclusive suite of home concepts created by specialist tropical designers. Each design has been tailored to the site’s hillside topography, maximising views and privacy while embracing natural light, sea breezes, and seamless indoor–outdoor living. The concepts also optimise airflow, level outdoor entertaining areas designed to optimise the unmatched views creating a bespoke lifestyle environment that is unique to Airlie Summit.

“The Luxe Design Collection provides buyers with a clear vision of what’s possible at Airlie Summit,” Mr Galvin said. “It allows people to imagine a home that not only fits the landscape but celebrates it, while offering the flexibility to work directly with designers to tailor the home to their personal needs and lifestyle.”

Alder has recently opened a new on-site Sales Suite, offering an immersive introduction to the community. The centre features an interactive digital masterplan and showcases the Luxe Design Collection – all set against what is already being hailed as “the best views of any sales office in Australia.”

For more information or to book an appointment, visit airliesummit.com.au.

Contributed with thanks to Alder

Alder's home range
Airlie Summit is one of the region’s last elevated communities

Photos supplied

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A Minute With The Mayor 5 September

September 22, 2025

It has been a big few weeks for Bowen, with our community well and truly kicking goals on both the agriculture and tourism fronts. Two very different but equally important parts of our economy have been in the spotlight and both have done us proud.

Last weekend I attended the Bowen Gumlu Growers Gala Dinner and Awards, a fantastic celebration of the people who drive our agriculture industry.

It was a great opportunity to spend time with many of our Whitsunday region’s leading growers, and to hear from special guests including Assistant Minister for Primary Industries and Water, Sean Dillon MP, and the evening’s MC and guest speaker, Shane Webcke.

The awards were a highlight, recognising outstanding contributions across the industry. A special mention to Leanne Born, who received the Lifetime Recognition Award.

Congratulations to all the winners and finalists. Your dedication, innovation and resilience keep our industry strong and ensure Bowen and the Whitsundays remain leaders in agriculture.

It was also exciting to hear from BGGA CEO Jenn Honnery about the association’s evolution, including the launch of their refreshed brand, North Queensland Farmers which is an exciting step forward.

On the tourism front, I am equally proud to share that Bowen was named Visitor Information Centre of the Year in the Local Tourism Organisation category at the annual Queensland Information Centres Association conference recently.

This recognition is all about the incredible team of staff and volunteers who make the Bowen Visitor Information Centre such a welcoming place for visitors.

They are the friendly faces who greet travellers, share their knowledge, and showcase everything our region has to offer. Their passion and pride for Bowen and the Whitsundays shines through every day whether it be pointing visitors to our stunning beaches or sharing our rich history and community spirit.

With both agriculture and tourism recognised over the past week, it’s clear Bowen is kicking goals right across the board.

These achievements highlight the strength, diversity and resilience of our industries and the dedication of the people who make it all possible.

Most importantly, they show how Bowen is playing its part in making the Whitsunday region a great place to invest, live, work and visit.

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Your Community Bank: Investing In The Whitsundays

September 5, 2025

As part of Bendigo Bank — Australia’s most trusted bank — Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine delivers the products, technology and security of a big bank while staying true to what matters most: personalised service and reinvesting profits back into our community.

Unlike many financial institutions, we are independently owned and operated with one clear mission — to support the Whitsundays. Over the past seven years, we’ve proudly contributed more than $249,000 into local schools, social programs, sporting clubs, arts and culture, conservation initiatives and community prizes.

Local Banking, Full Service

Led by Branch Manager Amanda Anderson, our branch offers the full suite of personal, business and wealth services. We’re open Monday to Friday, 9:30am–4:00pm (closed 1:00–2:00pm), with face-to-face service from experienced lenders and bankers who understand local needs.

Our services include:

  • Personal banking: home loans, everyday and savings accounts, credit cards, general and travel insurance.
  • Business banking: agribusiness, finance, insurance, overdrafts, property purchases, construction loans, refinancing and equipment finance.
  • Wealth services: financial advice, share trading and managed funds.

Meet Our New Team Members

The Cannonvale–Proserpine branch recently welcomed two new faces, both proud locals with deep roots in the Whitsundays.

Jade, Customer Service Officer, shared:

“I grew up here in the Whitsundays and went through the Proserpine schools, so this region will always be home. After nine years living and working in New South Wales, I returned at the end of 2023 because I missed the sense of community, the familiar faces and the lifestyle you can only find here. Working with Bendigo Bank gives me the chance to be more involved in our community, and I’m proud knowing my work makes a difference right here at home.”

Kylie, Customer Relationship Officer, added:

“I feel blessed to be a fifth-generation local and to have grown up in such a beautiful part of the world. After living in England, Switzerland and most recently Moranbah, nothing compares to being back in the Whitsundays raising my three children. What I love about working with the Community Bank is knowing we genuinely support locals — it makes every day at work more rewarding.”

Backing Local Business

Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine is also passionate about supporting local enterprise. We’re proud to provide dedicated business banking expertise through Luke Sheppard, Senior Business Relationship Manager for North Central Queensland and Cairns, who regularly visits Cannonvale and Airlie Beach to meet with business owners face-to-face.

In 2025, we sponsored the Whitsunday Business Conference, hosting more than 70 companies, and we are honoured to be the Principal Partner of the 2025 Whitsunday Business Awards — celebrating the innovation, excellence and resilience of the region’s business community.

Your Town. Your Bank.

When you bank with us, you’re helping build a stronger Whitsundays.

Visit Amanda and the team at Whitsunday Plaza Cannonvale

Call (07) 4948 3599

Email cannonvale&proserpinemailbox@bendigoadelaide.com.au

Bendigo Bank – the better big bank.

L-R: Jade, Branch Manager Amanda, Natasha, and Kylie. Photo credit: Danile Heggie/Mackay and Whitsunday Life

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Did you know? 5 September

September 5, 2025

When it comes to recycling, keeping it loose makes all the difference. Bagged recycling can’t be properly sorted at recycling facilities; in fact, it can damage the sorting equipment and can sometimes mean the whole load is sent straight to landfill.
By placing your hard plastics, steel, aluminium, glass, paper and cardboard loose in the yellow bin, you’re helping make sure these items get recycled into useful new products, like park benches and planter boxes.

Keeping your recycling loose is a simple step that has a big impact. For more information, search for Let’s Get it Sorted on Council’s website.

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Whitsundays Tourism Is Leading The Way In Eco Innovation

September 5, 2025

Tourism Whitsundays is proud to showcase local operators leading by example in environmental responsibility, proving that world-class experiences and conservation go hand in hand.

Over at Daydream Island Resort and Living Reef, the Living Reef team is literally growing the future. Their coral restoration program sees new life planted into Lovers Cove, where guests can snorkel among thriving reefs they've helped create.

Wings Sailing Charters has earned Advanced Eco certification, ensuring every sailing adventure has minimal environment impact, while Portland Roads has gone above and beyond with Advanced Ecotourism, Climate Action Business and Carbon Positive certifications, plus Recognition of Culture certification.

The sustainability story extends beyond the water. Zambrero is tackling food waste with Biopak packaging and their incredible Plate 4 Plate program – every meal sold triggers a donation to vulnerable communities through Foodbank Australia and Rise Against Hunger. They're also supporting Love Mercy's Cents for Seeds Project.

Waterview Airlie Beach contributes to Soap Aid, recycling discarded hotel soap into hygiene bars for communities in need, while Magnums Accommodation makes an impact through recycling stations, energy-efficient lighting and promoting eco-conscious tours.

These initiatives show that protecting our stunning region while creating unforgettable experiences isn’t just possible, it’s happening right here in our community.

Contributed with thanks to Rosanagh Gallivan, PR & Social Media Manager, Tourism Whitsundays

The Living Reef Team have been out and about surveying the Daydream Island reefs. Photo supplied

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Caleb Is Steering His Future One Work Day At A Time

September 5, 2025

Tec-NQ House grade 11 boarding student Caleb has his sights set firmly on the automotive trade, splitting his week between the classroom, paid work, and hands-on experience at the Townsville Audi and Porsche dealership just down the road from Tec-NQ House boarding campus.

“I got to work on a timing belt,” said Caleb. “Each day I went to work experience, I walked because it was just up the road.”

Time in a prestigious workshop has given him confidence and clarity. “I get to help the workers in the workshop,” he commented. “Watching how they fix problems has shown me what the job is really like.”

Caleb isn’t waiting around for opportunity to knock. He’s stacking experience wherever he can, working part-time. “I also have a job at Dan’s Automotive,” said Caleb. “When I’m not doing work experience or school, I work there, where I am learning a lot.”

Head of Boarding, Luke Papworth, says Caleb’s initiative is exactly what Tec-NQ House is designed to encourage. “Caleb is taking every chance to learn; he’s balancing school, work experience, and a real job. That work ethic is what sets our students up for apprenticeships,” Luke said.

He also points to the advantage of transport and flexible staff support. “Transport is provided to the Tec-NQ Douglas co-educational campus each day, and students are driven to and from their workplaces as required,” said Luke. "That means students can get to placements, arrive on time, and focus on learning rather than logistics,” added Luke.

As a boarder, Caleb benefits from a supportive home base in Townsville. Tec-NQ House is a purpose-built boys-only boarding facility in Rosslea, providing accommodation for up to forty senior students from regional and remote Queensland so they can access Tec-NQ’s trade-focused senior school program.

The residence blends structure with a warm, homely feel. Students have 24/7 supervised care, air-conditioned double-occupancy rooms, modern communal lounges, computer access, a secure outdoor recreation area with BBQ facilities, and a basketball court.

Daily routines make success easier. An on-site professional chef prepares nutritious meals, staff run after-hours sport and social activities, and regular excursions build friendships.

“Boarding gives students independence with a safety net,” said Luke. “We set expectations around study, wellbeing and behaviour, and we’re right there to guide them. The result is young people who are ready for the workplace.”

That workplace-ready mindset is exactly what Caleb is building. He’s learning to communicate with tradespeople, follow procedures, and take pride in doing the small things right: clean tools, tidy bays, and careful checks before a car leaves the workshop. Each shift adds to his confidence.

Caleb’s next goal is clear: secure an automotive apprenticeship and keep learning on the tools. With Tec-NQ House providing structure, support and proximity to employers, and with the combination of work experience, paid work and school learning under his belt, he’s well on the way.

Keep up the great work, Caleb; your future is idling at the lights, and you’ve already got the green.

Automotive trade experience. Photo supplied.
Caleb at Tech NQ's common area. Photo supplied.

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