Across the Mackay region, a poignant tribute now graces our streets: newly redesigned signs featuring red poppies, honouring the sacrifices of World War I and II casualties. In the lead-up to Remembrance Day, the Mackay Regional Council has started installing these new commemorative street blades, replacing the M150 street signs first introduced in 2012 as part of Mackay’s 150th anniversary. The poppy signifies that the street is named after a soldier who was a casualty of war and whose records show they were born in Mackay, enlisted from our shores, or had lived in the district.
This initiative stems from a community-driven effort, where residents were invited to submit the names of family members who lost their lives in these conflicts. In 2012, the council launched the ‘Lest We Forget Soldier Street Naming Project’ to commemorate our fallen soldiers and raise awareness of their histories. Local history enthusiast Basil Graham, along with students from Mackay North State High School, played a crucial role in researching and documenting these stories.
Now, as the streets of Mackay proudly display these poppy-adorned signs, they serve as a daily reminder of the bravery and dedication of our local heroes.

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For CQUniversity alumnus Fiona Mann Bobongie, starting her own First Nations consultancy as a way to facilitate a path towards cultural connection, respect and understanding.

The Mackay resident started Cyclic Konnectionz (CK) in 2018 to create tailored programs that support community engagement, professional growth and reconciliation through culturally-informed frameworks and initiatives in the region. 

CK also delivers cultural capabilities training and development to improve professional spaces through Walk on Country (Country is Curriculum©️), Reconciliation Action Plans, and a personally-developed framework on cultural diversity.  

"For over 15 years, I’ve been delivering professional development, and recognised a significant gap in the way workplaces were approaching cultural capabilities,” Ms Mann Bonbongie said. 

“Cyclic Konnectionz was born out of a desire to fill that gap and help both individuals and organisations develop meaningful cultural understanding and connections."

As a proud Darumbal woman with family ties to New Caledonia and Vanuatu, Fiona attributes the success and core of CK to her First Nations heritage. 

“Cyclic Konnectionz is my heritage. The business operates on First Nations theories, using ancient methodologies of sitting in circles and enacting protocols that have been in place for thousands of years.

“I chose the name Cyclic Konnectionz to represent the cyclical connections between Country, Sea Country, Sky Country, Ancestors, Elders and future generations. It also reflects the interconnectedness with other First Nations peoples and their lands.

"Konnectionz is about connectedness to all of the above – to make movement for our mob," she said. 

"My goal is to make change for my people so that one day, First Nations peoples won’t need to do what I do because the respect for our culture will be ingrained in everyone."

Reflecting on her education, Ms Mann Bonbongie said that gaining a Bachelor of Learning Management (BLM) from CQUniversity had been pivotal to her journey. 

“The BLM enabled me to achieve a teaching degree, but also to build confidence in achieving, believing, accomplishing and futuristic thinking through digital technology. 

“It built a foundation for me to help guide our mob to become stronger, healthier and more resilient.

“I choose CQUniversity for its local, personalised approach - and the small campus environment in Mackay was supportive and empowering. 

"My experience at CQU continues to influence my work today in both my academic and cultural knowledge to drive CK’s mission.”

As CK continues to grow, Ms Mann Bonbongie said she remained focused on relationships, and ensuring that First Nations standpoints and methodologies were authentically represented and respected. 

"To build harmonious relationships and for Reconciliation Action Plans to be truly enacted, these methodologies can only be shared by First Nations peoples.

“They have been enacting the practices for 1000s of years - from the time they took their first breath within family, community and mob.”

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Fiona Mann Bobongie. Photo supplied

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Whitsunday Anglican School’s Junior School began Term 4 with a ‘superb’ display of talent and dedication.

Special Acknowledgements:

Miss Walker and the Junior Concert Band – Recognised for their outstanding performance, showcasing musical opportunities for students and the extended school community.

Eason Wang – Acknowledged for his beautiful renditions of the national anthem and School song at assemblies.

Dare to Care Award Winners – Celebrated for demonstrating kindness, empathy, teamwork, and perseverance, serving as excellent role models.

Uday Singh – Commended for his recent achievements in tennis, showing promise as a future talent.

Kash Rowe and Rosie Ma – Recognised for their dedication to gymnastics, pursuing their goals in the sport.

Mackay Eisteddfod Participants – Applauded for their impressive efforts, making the school proud.

Spelling Spectacular Participants – Congratulated for their enthusiasm and hard work in the competition.

Australian Mathematics Competition Students – Awarded certificates for their achievements, with Distinction recipients to be honoured at the Awards events.

State Chess Team – Celebrated for their exceptional performance at the recent competition.

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While results of last week’s State Election have not yet been officially declared, Amanda Camm has claimed 69.6 per cent of the votes and has been successful in her bid to secure a second term as Member for Whitsunday.

Meanwhile, Dale Last has commanded 65.7 per cent of the votes counted so far and has also secured another tenure as Member for Burdekin, the area that encompasses Bowen and Collinsville.

Both LNP candidates are, for the first time, representing their region while not in opposition following David Crisafulli’s landmark victory and subsequent announcement as the new Premier for Queensland.

Whitsunday Region Stands To Gain
From LNP Led State

For the first time in more than 10 years, LNP is now at the helm of both the Whitsundays region and Queensland as a whole.

This means that vital projects and funding avenues that had previously been caught in the crossfire or used as political footballs, can now be actioned with both our local leaders and heads of state representing the same party.

This also means that election promises made by both Amanda Camm and Dale Last during the demanding campaign race can become realities, each project having a positive impact on the region.

Amanda Camm commented this week that she was thrilled to see Transport and Main Roads (TMR) had already started on preliminary works to flood-proof Hamilton Plains and said she is “committed to seeing the full project delivered”.

In addition, Ms Camm promises that a new Shute Harbour Boat Ramp will be delivered and broader state-wide issues such as youth crime, cost of living and health services will be addressed on a local level.  

“We really want to make sure our region receives its fair share of funding,” she said, stating that an LNP led state government means that “every election commitment I’ve made, I can actually deliver.”

“I’m keen and motivated and energised to get working and to deliver for the region”

Similarly, Dale Last Member for Burdekin says he is excited to deliver for the region, with one local election promise, driving the redevelopment of Bowen Marina Precinct, high on his list.

“We’ve campaigned for a fresh start for Queensland, and we have a real commitment for rural, regional Queensland and that’s something I am passionate to deliver,” he shared.

“After 10 long years in opposition, we’re now in government and with a bit of luck I’ll be a minister as well.”

Mr Last was previously Shadow Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, Shadow Minister for Fire and Emergency Services, Shadow Minister for Corrective Services and Shadow Minister for Rural and Regional Affairs.

Meanwhile, Ms Camm was previously Shadow Minister for Child Protection, Shadow Minister for the Prevention of Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence and Shadow Minister for Women's Economic Security.

Ms Camm stated that she would be “humbled to be offered any position” by the government moving forward and that at the moment they are largely in “caretaker mode” while they set a date to officially open parliament under the new government.

“I am really humbled at the number of people who have put their trust in me and the LNP, people who have committed to a fresh start,” she shared.

Mr Last reiterates Ms Camm’s sentiment, sharing his own appreciation for the region.

“I’m so proud and honoured to represent the Burdekin electorate, to have that confidence put in me for the next four years is such a privilege.”

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Member for Burdekin Dale Last, Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm, Laura Gerber MP and Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox. Photo supplied

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Hi Everyone,

We woke up this week with a brand-new state government and welcomed back two familiar faces to our region - Amanda Camm Member for Whitsunday who represents the Airlie Beach, Proserpine and Cannonvale areas and Dale Last Member for Burdekin who represents Bowen and Collinsville.

No matter which party you voted for, the whole region gains in this election because for the first time in more than a decade our local leaders are from the same political party as the new Premier, David Crisafulli.

This means that funding streams are likely to be more forthcoming and projects we have dreamt about for years are likely to come to fruition.

I’ve met David Crisafulli a few times now and at every interaction I have found him to be respectful, humble and engaged.

Our first meeting was here in the Whitsundays, and I think he was accustomed to being asked the hard questions by city journos. It may have come as it bit of a surprise when I put my recording device down and chose to just have a chat to get to know him instead!

The second time I met David was this year at the Queensland Country Press Association Awards night, he was there to present the award for Best Free Newspaper of the Year.

When our name was called for this award, it was particularly nice that he was there to present it – I could tell he was thrilled a small regional newspaper like ours had won such a big award.

David was born in Ingham and began his career as a journalist, this means he not only understands regional towns, he also loves regional newspapers which is another win for us here locally.

To finish off I would also like to personally congratulate the new Member for Mackay, Nigel Dalton. From Police Officer to Parishioner to Politician, Nigel is a good man and I know he will do a wonderful job for his electorate.

Rach

Quote of the Week: “Someone struggled for your right to vote. Use it.” (Susan B Anthony)

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The Good deed this week goes to Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc, who work tirelessly to keep the Whitsunday seas clean and marine life safe.
Eco Barge is excited to announce that Jade, a juvenile Green sea turtle found stranded on the rocks at Seaforth on September 30, will soon be released back into her ocean home.
Covered in barnacles and stranded, Jade was safely transported to the Whitsunday Turtle Rescue Centre with the support of the Mackay District Turtle Watch team.
Upon arrival, Eco Barge’s dedicated team assessed Jade’s health, finding her overall condition good but requiring special care to regain her strength. Over the past weeks, she has received lots of care, including barnacle removal and a nutritious diet of squid and cuttlefish to bring her back to a healthy weight.
A big thanks to the committed efforts of the Eco Barge Whitsunday Turtle Carers, Jade is now ready to return to the sea.
Jade was released on Thursday.
For more information or to find out how you can volunteer your time, please visit www.ecobargecleanseas.org.au

Jade when she was found – covered in Barnacles
Jade the turtle with Lynette Bunker a turtle response volunteer who will be releasing Jade.

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Since announcing their formation just two short weeks ago, the Whitsundays’ inaugural team of ‘Dancing CEOs’ have been extraordinarily busy in their quest to end domestic violence within our communities and raise over $41,000 for Women’s Legal Service Queensland (WLSQ).

Kate Purdie, Candice Crossley, Alice Harriott, Julie Telford and their ‘Team Whitsundays’ mentor, Katelyn Collins, have added another name to their support squad, with the announcement of Whitsunday Regional Council’s ‘Mayoress’, Mel Collins, in the role of Patron.

Through her public profile as wife of Whitsunday Mayor, Ry Collins, Ms Collins will now help with advocacy and awareness of Team Whitsundays’ meaningful mission, describing herself as “honoured” to have been asked to perform ceremonial duties at upcoming fundraising events.

“I’m super excited to support the ladies from Team Whitsundays in their pursuit to entertain us with their dancing prowess whilst raising funds for such a worthy cause – especially as this is an issue close to my heart, having previously worked in the office of our Whitsunday MP, Amanda Camm, during her tenure as Shadow Minister for the Prevention of Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence,” she said.

Meanwhile, behind the scenes an enormous amount of work has already gone into gathering prizes for raffles and organising events – one of which will be truly ‘Epic’.

In another ‘first’ for both the Whitsundays and an established WLSQ fundraiser, Team Whitsundays will be hosting a 2025 ‘Epic Walk for DV’ in Airlie Beach on Sunday, March 30, at the same time as the main event takes place in New Farm Park, Brisbane.

Epic Walk Co-Founder, Brendon Mann, who started the event with his partner, Brendan Smith, as part of their own ‘Dancing CEOs’ team fundraising in 2021, said it was incredible to think that for the first time in its near-five-year history, a sea of purple – the colour synonymous with taking a stand against domestic violence – would be spread across two locations, within the north and south of our state.

“For us it’s not just about the fundraising but also about raising awareness of the services provided by WLSQ and the fact that they are available for women across all of Queensland,” he said.

Being familiar with the Epic Walk from her time as a former Dancing CEO and as an ongoing WLSQ Ambassador, Katelyn Collins said this was a fantastic way for the entire Whitsundays community to get behind not just their local ‘Team Whitsundays’, but also form their own walking and fundraising teams, thereby making a truly personal contribution to the overarching cause.

“We’re calling on not just individuals, but groups of friends, businesses, community groups, schools, regional organisations – anyone and everyone – to accept the challenge, form a team, sign up and start your own fundraising to help WLSQ reach more women when they need it most,” she said.

“Bring a blanket, your dog, your family and friends, and join us for a picnic in the park and live entertainment once the walk ends; and if you’re a business interested in sponsoring the 2025 Epic Walk for DV, we need to hear from you so please, reach out to teamwhitsundays@gmail.com.”

The Whitsundays ‘Epic Walk for DV’ will cover 5km from the Coral Sea Marina Gardens, along the Bicentennial Boardwalk and back.

Registration costs $29, or $24 for early birds and kids walk free.

For more information about upcoming events follow the ‘Team Whitsundays Dancing CEOs’ Facebook page.

Contributed with thanks to Sharon Smallwood.

WHAT: Epic Walk For DV
WHERE: Coral Sea Marina Gardens
WHEN: March 30, 2025

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Alice Harriott, Kate Purdie, Patron Mayoress Mel Collins, Julie Telford and Candice Crossley. Photo credit: Sharon Smallwood

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Police and BMA CQ Rescue were called to the scene of a crash at approximately 12:08pm on Monday 28th October where two cane trucks had collided on private property near Bloomsbury at Gibson Creek Creek Bridge.
Two Proserpine men, aged 38 and 59, were sadly pronounced dead at the scene.
The Forensic Crash Unit and Workplace Health and Safety are actively investigating the cause of the crash, though no insights into the cause of the accident have been confirmed at this time.
Fellow Canegrowers took to the ‘Canegrowers Proserpine’ community Facebook page to express their heartfelt tributes to the two men, posting:
“An absolutely tragic accident. Our condolences are extended to all the family, friends and community of the deceased.”
The Bruce Highway was closed in order to allow the emergency CQ Rescue helicopter to land, which was called by Queensland Health Services, but sadly, the men passed away at the scene.
Andrew Willcox extended his sympathies to the friends and families of the two men:
“My thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of the two hard working cane truck operators who have tragically lost their lives.”

“Right now, it is important we remember them and the community wraps around the industry to support those affected.”
This incident marks the fourth road death in the region in just one month, including the tragic cases of 17-year-old Bree Day and another a 22-year-old woman.

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CQ Rescue helicopter at the scene Photo Credit: BMA CQ Rescue.

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Expansion is at the heart of any successful business, in fact, many people believe that if you are not going forwards, you are going backwards. Explore Property Whitsundays has experienced this momentum first-hand this year with the recent opening of their brand-new office. Located on a prime piece of street frontage on Shute Harbour Road in Cannonvale, the new central headquarters’ metreage almost doubles the previous space and makes room for Explore’s growing workforce.

In just three years, owner of Explore Property Steve Marks, has been the driving force behind growth and success. Starting out with just three staff, including himself, Explore Property now boasts a team of 12, including six sales staff and a thriving property management team.

“Over the last 12 months the business has had enough momentum to self-propel,” said Steve.

“We’ve just kept hitting the mark and kept attracting new business.

“We have a good fun environment in our team, and it all comes down to really good hiring – the right people for the right jobs, and they are all part of moving forward in the right direction.”

As you enter the brand-new office space, located conveniently on the main entry road linking Cannonvale and Airlie Beach, you are immediately embraced by a homely, relaxed vibe that extends both from the welcoming staff and carefully considered aesthetics.

Steve discovered the new location ‘by chance’ and immediately fell in love with the open space that gave him the blank canvas in which to create his dream office space. Within just eight weeks he conducted a complete fit-out of the space, starting from scratch and finishing with a masterpiece.

Opting to create a modern yet cosy feel where both clients and staff feel genuinely ‘at home’, Steve decided to source all furnishings from home stores rather than office suppliers. As you enter the office you are immediately greeted by two comfy sofas and can choose to sit there or head to the meeting room which is equipped with a ‘dining room table’ for a more formal but ultimately relaxing setting.

Inside the central staff quarters, the homeliness continues, a large meeting table sits front and centre, a modern kitchen gives staff access to a range of handy appliances. To ensure the team are performing at their optimum they have the option of spending time in the "Therapy Corner"  where you can enjoy a relaxing 20 minutes on the massage chair to reinvigorate.

The open plan office is subtly segregated into departments and a soundproof booth allows staff to have private conversations with clients when required.

Overall, the whole office embodies a relaxing yet efficient vibe, providing both staff and clients with a positive and motivational space within which to conduct local real estate business.

Looking forward to the year ahead, Steve remains proud to represent the Explore Property Group which is celebrating 10 years this year with a refreshing re-brand that adorns the new office space.

He is also inspired by the various development projects he is working with, namely The Grove where his team has sold 28 new homes to first home buyers in the last 12 months. He is also excited by his growing property management team, which has organically grown to include over 100 properties, something he wishes to double in the next year.

Whether you are buying, selling, renting or leasing, Explore Property Whitsundays looks forward to welcoming you through their brand-new office doors.

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The friendly team at Explore Property Whitsundays
Steve Marks, Principal

Photo credit: R Jean Photography

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Holidaymakers visiting the remote stretch of Whitehaven Beach were witnesses to the dramatic crash landing of a seaplane on Saturday morning.

Fortunately, all four passengers and the pilot on board survived the crash and were rescued by crew from private vessels nearby.

One local resident who was on the beach at the time stated that she was told the plane had been on its maiden voyage and a technical issue forced it to do an emergency landing.

When it touched the water to land, it is believed the plane flipped over.

Hamilton Island confirmed a private vessel in the vicinity of the incident, retrieved the pilot and all four passengers and transported them safely to Hamilton Island Marina where they were met and assessed by emergency services.

No passengers sustained serious injuries.

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The seaplane upturned in shallow waters off Whitehaven Beach. Photo supplied

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For The Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors

As we celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors, Tourism Whitsundays and Whitsunday Regional Council extend a warm invitation to all previous and current cruise ship volunteers and industry supporters.

Join us for a special event on Thursday, 7 November from 2:30-5:30 pm at Shute Harbour Marine Terminal. 

The afternoon will be dedicated to honouring and celebrating the exceptional service of our volunteer group.

The event will commence with networking and refreshments, followed by appreciation speeches and inspiring stories from our dedicated volunteers. 

We are also delighted to announce that there will be an industry update presented by Tourism & Events Queensland.

The Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors have had a year full of celebrations, they greeted their one-millionth visitor, won gold at the Whitsundays Tourism Awards, and now they will celebrate their 20th year in the region.

The Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors aim is to welcome as many visitors as possible and they greet cruise ship passengers right off the boat.

They chat to the visitors, offer suggestions, directions or any other information visitors may need during their short time in Airlie Beach.

For more information and to RSVP, please reach out to The Whitsundays Visitor Information Centre at info@tourismwhitsundays.com.au or simply give us a call at 07 4945 3967.

We look forward to celebrating this milestone with all of you!

What: 20th Anniversary of Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors
Where: Shute Harbour Marine Terminal
When: Thursday 7 November, 2.30pm – 5.30pm

Contributed by Visitor Services Manager at Tourism Whitsundays Dea Huvonen

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With over ten years branch management and banking specialist experience, Amanda Anderson was appointed Branch Manager of Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine in March 2024. Here she shares her highlights from this year, and what to look forward to in 2025.
The branch offers face-to-face full banking service with lenders and bankers, open 9:30am-4pm Monday to Friday.
This year the branch has taken their customer service to the next level by implementing a range of new initiatives such as free home loan reviews, specialist lender appointment bookings, insurance offers, and revised branch hours that best suit our customers.
As a result, the branch is seeing positive growth in deposits and lending and stronger relationships for our customers with mobile lenders and Bendigo Bank business partners.
“One of the major reasons I chose to join Community Bank Cannonvale- Proserpine was to be part of an organisation that is so involved and invested in the local community,” said Amanda.
“Our profit-with-a-purpose model sees a percentage of the profits generated by our independently owned and operated Community Bank branch invested back into the community. When you bank with us, good things happen in the Whitsundays community,” she said.
To the year ahead, the branch team wants to be the bank of choice in the region for customer service and lending, business and rural banking so we can continue to deliver positive growth and continue to support Whitsunday clubs and organisations.
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Amanda also offers some end of year top tips for customers:
   • Review your banking arrangements at least once a year especially your lending rates and insurance.
   • Have a second way to access your banking if you can’t visit a branch, for example eBanking even if it is only for emergencies.
   • Be aware of scams and don't be afraid to ask questions when paying for goods and services. Look to your bank for advice and remember when transferring money in a branch you might get asked questions regarding your transfers to make sure you are not being scammed.
   • Over Christmas, the Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine branch will be closed 25-27 December and re-opening 9:30am Monday 30 December.

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Heart of Reef Shuttles recently won bronze at the Whitsunday Tourism Awards and the whole team is proud to celebrate with the region.

This achievement follows their bronze win at the awards in 2022 and winning the Best of Queensland experience in 2023 and 2024.

They are an extremely popular service which offers door to door transfers, private transfers, transport for wedding groups and recently implemented customised day tours.

Owner and Director Cameron and Michelle Johnstone says the team at Heart of Reef Shuttles pride themselves on their customer service.

“Our staff go above and beyond for our guests – we are the first and last point of contact for their holiday, so we want them to start and end it with a great experience,” she explained.

Michelle said they had three team members present at the Whitsunday Tourism Awards and although they didn’t get the gold, they are very happy and grateful for the achievement with a bronze and thank the whole community for their support.

“It means so much to us to have the continuous support of the community,” said Michelle.

“We are so proud of our achievements since we started in 2018 and our team are fabulous, we couldn’t do this without them.”

She also expressed massive thanks to Tourism Whitsundays and the Whitsunday Coast Airport.

Michelle encourages other local businesses to nominate themselves in the awards, she said it is a great experience and you can learn a lot about where your own business is at, and your future goals.

Cameron and Michelle with their Bronze award, Photo credit: R Jean Photography

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This month we meet Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry member Emma Luxton who launched Luxton Safety & Compliance Australia (LSCA) this year.

After years working in safety and compliance operations, Emma wanted to create something that aligned more deeply with her passion for workplace and home safety.

LSCA specialises in safety and compliance services and has partnered with global firm offering to offer assurance, risk management, safety audits, assessments, fire safety adviser services, and integrated management systems.

“Safety is more than just a workplace issue—it’s a responsibility we carry into our homes and communities. That's why LSCA is committed to delivering services that prioritise safety, protect employees, and safeguard their families,” says Emma.

Since establishing LSCA, she has seen exciting management software and mobile apps that are transforming how businesses track, report, and resolve real-time safety concerns.

They have also been keeping up with changing regulations and educating businesses on the importance of investing in safety, even when budgets are tight.

Emma’s advice to other business owners include:

   • Invest in safety – It’s not just about meeting legal requirements; it’s about genuinely caring for your people and ensuring the long-term success of your business.
   • Adapt and evolve – The world of business and regulations is constantly changing. Stay flexible and be prepared to pivot when necessary.
   • Build strong relationships – Trust is everything, whether it's with your team, clients, or local community. Building solid relationships can make all the difference in the success and growth of your business.

Emma is an enthusiastic member of the Whitsundays Chamber. She says the networking opportunities have been invaluable, and the support from the Chamber helps her team stay informed on local and regional developments. What she enjoys most is the chance to be part of a community that cares—especially when it comes to supporting families and safety.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce & Industry.

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Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry member Emma Luxton who launched Luxton Safety & Compliance Australia (LSCA) this year. Photo supplied

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Whitsunday Regional Council reminds pool and spa owners to carry out simple safety checks to ensure a safe summer. Regularly inspect your pool or spa barrier for rust, loose hinges, or broken panels, and arrange repairs as needed. Make sure no climbable objects like furniture or toys are near the fence. Remember, your pool or spa must be recorded on the QBCC Pools Register, and CPR signage is required to be clearly visible and weatherproof. These steps can make a big difference in preventing accidents. For more information on pool safety and compliance, visit https://www.qld.gov.au/housing/buying-owning-home/pool-safety.

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