Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
A single-vehicle bus crash has sadly claimed the life of one passenger at Gumlu, north of Bowen overnight. According to initial police investigations, at approximately 4pm on Thursday 14th May, a bus with 29 people on board was travelling south along the Bruce Highway from Cairns to Airlie Beach, when it left the roadway and rolled onto its side. Several other passengers were injured and transported to Townsville, Ayr, and Bowen Hospitals. The bus driver, a 70-year-old Mackay man, was transported to Bowen Hospital with minor injuries. As of Friday morning, three patients are confirmed to be in a life-threatening condition with one assessed on the scene and two airlifted to Townsville University Hospital. Multiple people were injured and transported to Ayr Hospital before being airlifted to Townsville University Hospital by Royal Flying Doctor’s Service. There are eight stable patients in Townsville whilst one remains in a stable condition at Ayr. The Bruce Highway has reopened at Gumlu. This tragic accident comes less than two years after a fatal bus crash on the same stretch of the Bruce Highway, which claimed the lives of three women in on June 3rd, 2024. On this occasion, a Greyhound bus with 33 people on board was travelling north along the Bruce Highway, also near Gumlu, when it crossed over to the wrong side of the road and into oncoming traffic. The bus struck a Land Cruiser station wagon travelling in the opposite direction. A 56 year old Townsville woman and two German women aged 21 and 33 passed away as a result of the incident. The 52-year-old bus driver from North Ward was charged with five counts of dangerous operation of a vehicle causing death or grievous bodily harm, but was subsequently found not guilty. Anyone with relevant dash cam vision of incident last night is urged to contact police. Investigations are continuing
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So, what’s going on with the property market? The thing about the property market is that it doesn’t stand alone in its own little world untouched by the drama going on around it. And there is a fair bit of drama at the moment. Let’s get all the dramas to form a conga line and point them out one at a time. First there’s inflation, an annoying factor that adds to the cost of living and affects people’s ability to buy real estate. Right behind inflation, and I mean very close, is its brother in arms/partner in crime/long-time bedfellow, interest rates. Interest rates have been particularly pesky lately as the Reserve Bank pushes them up in an attempt to bring inflation down. The idea is to make housing less affordable so you can make housing more affordable. Then there’s a war in the Middle East. War is very good for business if you are a weapons producer and part of the military-industrial complex but it’s not very good for everyone else. It certainly isn’t good for confidence and housing markets are pretty big on the old confidence factor. So, not good. This particular war has the additional benefit of taking place in the Persian Gulf, where a fair portion of the world’s oil is transported from Middle East oil producers to the rest of the world. The war has created a traffic jam in the Strait of Hormuz, which is restricting the supply of oil, meaning that in a world of demand and supply the price of fuel at the petrol bowser has gone up significantly. Which means our old friends inflation and interest rates give us another wave from the conga line and remind us of another impact on the property market. The conga line of dramas was joined this week by the Federal Budget and its changes to negative gearing, up until now a key driver in property investment and the supply of rental properties. Nothing changes for people who had negatively geared properties up until Budget night. My Pommy colleague Andy Collins, the Sales Manager at Gardian real estate, pointed out after the Budget that there was no way the changes would include investors’ existing properties because too many politicians own investment properties and the pollies wouldn’t do anything to hurt themselves. It’s up to you whether you think Andy is a sniping little Pommy whinger or an astute judge of human nature. Or can he be both? What Andy correctly pointed out is that from now on investors will be looking for properties that provide such good rental returns that they are positively geared, removing the need for negative gearing. That’s where Mackay’s strong rental returns come into it. Investors from southern markets have been active in the Mackay market because of those rental returns. When they can get returns like $750 a week on properties they have bought for $650,000, those southern investors realise Mackay offers better opportunities than the high-priced, low-rent options in their own cities. Andy was suggesting that it is possible that the budget changes will spur even more investment activity in Mackay because the removal of negative gearing makes investments in other markets unviable. I will delve further into the status of the Mackay market in upcoming columns but there are a few initial points to make. There is no doubt that, like every other market, the conga line of dramas has had an impact and given buyers pause for thought. But we are still seeing strong buyer activity and properties selling. As always, the buoyancy of our coal market and the jobs and business it provides will continue to be a driver of our economy and a key factor in the property market. Will the budget changes create an additional spur to our market and bring more investors in or is that conga line going to have a bigger impact? Stay tuned over the coming months.
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With more than three decades of experience and deep roots in the land, Royce Dunn brings unmatched insight to rural property across the Mackay region. Joining Blacks Real Estate in 1991, Royce is a licensed real estate agent and auctioneer, who has spent the past 25 years as Director leading the agency’s rural department. Over that time, he has built a strong reputation for his knowledge across all areas of property sales and marketing, from farmhouses and grazing land to residential subdivisions. Coming from a rural background and operating his own small farm, Royce understands the realities of life on the land, and the expectations that come with it. That lived experience allows him to connect with clients on a practical level, offering advice that is grounded, honest and tailored to the needs of farming families. Known for his straightforward approach and strong work ethic, Royce is committed to delivering results, working closely with clients to navigate the complexities of rural property transactions and achieve the best possible outcome.
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From wildlife caring, to country kitchens or supporting people with disability – a world of volunteering opportunities awaits at this year’s Volunteer Expo! This year’s event is set to be one of the biggest on record, with 55 community, support and other organisations have registered. The Volunteer Expo is being held at the Mackay Showgrounds on Sunday, May 17 from 9am until midday. Deputy Mayor Karen May said volunteering is at the heart of sustainable and supportive communities. “There are so many benefits to volunteering – from the people and organisations being supported, to those who so generously donate their time and skills. It increases community and individual wellbeing and drives positive change in the community,” Deputy Mayor May said. “What’s great about events like our Volunteers Expo is it gives people a one-stop shop to see what’s out there – and it could be something you’d never thought of,” she said. “Feedback from previous years shows how valuable this expo is to our community groups, with one organisation signing up more than a dozen volunteers on the day.” Data from Volunteering Queensland shows that for every $1 invested in volunteering, there’s a $4.70 return to the community. More than 110,000 jobs were created in 2024 through spending on volunteering – with the sector worth more than $117-billion to the state economy. Cr May said volunteering gives people to build on their passions while learning new skills and meeting new people. “It also opens up opportunities beyond the organisation a person volunteers with – it can help build new professional relationships and create new connections,” she said. “Data from Volunteering Queensland shows the overwhelming majority of people (64 percent) volunteer because they want to help others and the Volunteers Expo has dozens of options for people to help others. Entry to the Mackay Volunteer Expo is free. For more information, visit the event page on Facebook
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Bowen State School marked a major milestone on Saturday, celebrating its 160th birthday with a day full of pride, nostalgia, and community spirit. The event attracted a large crowd of past and present students, families, and staff, all gathering to honour the school’s rich history.
Among the special guests was Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox, a proud past student of the school. He was invited to lead the roll call, reading out the names of past students by decade from the 1930s to the present—an honour that connected generations of Bowen alumni.
One of the day’s most touching moments came during the cake-cutting ceremony. The school’s oldest known past student, Mrs Rogers—who also returned as a long-serving teacher—joined the two youngest current students to cut the commemorative cake.
A vibrant fair ran alongside the official proceedings, and the school hall featured an impressive memorabilia display, showcasing the school's legacy through photographs and artefacts.
The event was a fitting tribute to one of Queensland’s oldest schools and a celebration of its enduring place in the community.
Fennell’s Floorworld has been recognised on the national stage, taking out the prestigious Rising Star Award at the National Flooring World Conference Awards Night held in Brisbane last Thursday.
Scott Fennell owner of Fennell’s Floorworld has been in the flooring industry for 40 years.
The award, which cannot be entered but is instead selected from among Floorworld head office following a strict criteria, came as a huge surprise to the Cannonvale and Bowen based business.
“We were jumping out of our skin when our name was called,” said Accounts Manager Natasha Saroglia. “It’s such an honour because it’s not something you apply for – you’re chosen, which makes it even more special.”
It was the first time Fennell’s Floorworld had been nominated at the national level, with the business also shortlisted for Queensland Store of the Year.
The Rising Star recognition comes off the back of significant growth for the business in recent years. Originally operating out of Cannonvale, Fennell’s has expanded its footprint with a store in Bowen, established to better service customers in the growing Whitsunday region.
The growth Fennell experienced not only saw them expand to new a location but also grow in terms of productivity.
“We were travelling to Bowen so often with our staff that it just made sense to open a permanent store there,” Natasha explained.
“It allows us to provide a more convenient service for local customers.”
The expansion has been matched by diversification in products and services. While the company has long been known for its flooring expertise, offering engineered timber, hybrid, laminate, carpet and vinyl planks it has recently added window furnishings to its range.
“In the last couple of months, we’ve introduced blinds and curtains, which has been really exciting,” Natasha said.
This provides customers with the option to finish their interiors with more than just flooring.
Fennell’s offers both supply-only and supply-and-install options, working with a team of full-time and subcontracted installers to ensure flexibility for customers.
“Some people want to do it themselves, while others prefer the full service, so we cater to both,” said Natasha.
Looking ahead, the team is focusing on building on its reputation for quality service and strong customer relationships rather than chasing rapid expansion.
“We’ve grown a lot over the past four years, but now it’s about perfecting what we do,” Natasha said.
“Our customers are at the centre of everything, and this award shows that the hard work is paying off.”
The Rising Star Award has cemented Fennell’s Floor world as a business on the rise, recognised not only in the Whitsundays but now across Australia.
The winning team at Fennell's Floorworld. Photo supplied
The first Europeans to settle in the Lower Conway area were the Wilson family - Fred in 1905 and his wife, Catherine, and children, Beatrice and Fred, in 1908. A pioneer to the Saltwater Creek area, Fred had previously travelled around Queensland finding employment as a shearer, a drover, and a farm hand. The Wilson family cleared the land and initially concentrated on growing bananas. In 1913, they sent their first sugar cane to the mill as the tramline had, by then, been extended to the Conway / Preston area.
Wilson Beach was once referred to as Little Beach and Conway as Big Beach but when subdivision and development took place in the area, official names were proposed. Hence, we now have Wilson Beach and Conway Beach. (Conway Beach was originally known as Preston Beach).
Circa 1911, the local families, the “Prestonites”, held a picnic at the mouth of the Proserpine River. In those times, access to Little Beach was by boat from Saltwater Creek to the mouth of the river and then by foot along the beach or by using the rough track cut out by the farmers using hand axes, mattocks, horses and plenty of blood, sweat and tears.
In 1942, Harry and Ruby Davison owned the area now known as Wilson Beach. They had built their family home on the beach front and there they raised nine children. Sadly, the house had to be demolished after Cyclone Debbie, however, their name lives on in Davison Road. Hall Drive is named after another early settler, Arthur Hall, whose house was along the beach from Davison’s.
The “Proserpine Guardian” January 13, 1961 reported, “Master Beames, from Brisbane, is visiting Little Beach during the Christmas vacation as a guest of the Davison family. Other visitors during the holidays included Mr and Mrs E Grimstone and Lyn, Miss G Carne, Mr and Mrs C. Hiscox and family, Mr and Mrs J. Jackson and M. King and family from Mackay who were camped on the beach. The road, now bitumened, is quite good, although the sides are very soft and cars are apt to skid or sink down when passing or overtaking.”
In the late 1950s, local residents and the visiting holiday makers had expressed that a swimming enclosure was needed, as there was no safe place for the children to swim. There were stingers in the sea and the water flow at Cedar Creek falls was unreliable. So, many locals hand cut posts from the bush and the wire was donated. The community kept the enclosure in good repair. Each year, the wire was replaced before the start of the stinger season. And before the tide came in, the enclosure was always checked to make sure there was nothing dangerous trapped in there. Damage to the enclosure from Cyclone Debbie made the enclosure unusable however it has recently been rebuilt by the council.
Wilson Beach has grown into a beautiful, peaceful, secluded seaside settlement with magnificent sunsets: a place where families love to spend holidays. The community should be proud of the strong community spirit which has been passed down through the generations since the days of the early settlers.
Story and photo courtesy of Proserpine Historical Museum
What a month it's been for The Whitsundays! August delivered a packed calendar that brought our region alive with visitors and competitors from across Australia.
The action kicked off with the 74 Islands Distillery Airlie Beach Race Week from 7-14 August. For six days, colourful sails dotted our waters while Airlie Beach buzzed with evening entertainment.
Athletes then took centre stage at the Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival on 17 August. The popular North Queensland event saw competitors of all ages tackle the challenging course against our stunning coastal backdrop.
August's finale was the milestone 40th Hamilton Island Race Week, presented by American Express, from 19-23 August. This special anniversary year combined world-class sailing with the exciting Trans-Tasman 49ers Exhibition Series, offering locals and visitors a taste of Olympic-level competition ahead of Brisbane 2032.
Local tourism operators experienced strong visitor numbers throughout the month, with hotels, restaurants and tour operators all benefiting from the busy schedule. The successful run of events proves once again that our region can handle major competitions while showcasing everything The Whitsundays has to offer.
From racing yachts to finish-line celebrations, August reminded everyone why The Whitsundays remains one of Australia's most sought-after destinations.
Contributed with thanks to Tourism Whitsundays
Airlie Beach Race Week drew in a huge crowd. Photo credit: Andrea Francolini
Time is running out to apply for the Whitsunday Business Awards 2025, the region’s premier celebration of business excellence. Applications close 11:59pm, Sunday 7 September 2025 – don’t miss your chance to be recognised.
The Awards celebrate outstanding achievements, leadership, innovation, and resilience across the Whitsunday business community.
A collaboration between the Bowen Chamber of Commerce, the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Whitsunday Regional Council, the program is judged by respected regional experts.
Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine is proud to come onboard as this year’s Principal Partner.
“Local businesses are at the heart of our community. They support families, employ locals, and make the Whitsundays an even better place to live and work. We’re proud to partner with the 2025 Whitsunday Business Awards because celebrating business excellence is about celebrating the future of our region” said Mark Henry, Chair of Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine.
One of the flagship categories, the Regional Game Changer Award, recognises businesses fuelling economic growth, innovation, and community prosperity.
TAFE Queensland will present the Trailblazing Young Entrepreneur Award, celebrating rising stars under 25.
"Working alongside industry and Queensland communities is at the heart of everything we do at TAFE Queensland," said Susan Kinobe, TAFE Queensland North General Manager. “Sponsoring this award is a chance to celebrate local business excellence and the young leaders shaping the future of the Whitsunday region.”
The Small Business Hero Award recognises sole traders and small businesses making a big impact through ambition, innovation, and resilience.
Finally, the Community Champion Award, sponsored by the Rotary Club of Airlie Beach, celebrates businesses that give back to the community.
"This award reflects Rotary’s dedication to community service, finding ways to improve the quality of life for people in their communities and to serve the public interest. It aligns with the commitment of members to use their professional skills and expertise to serve the community, promote ethical practices, and inspire others," the Club said.
Don’t miss this opportunity to put your business in the spotlight.
Visit the Award website: https://bit.ly/whitsundayba
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Reliable roads and bridges are the backbone of our regional economy. They keep our cane farmers, graziers and local residents connected, and ensure produce, livestock and equipment can move when and where they need to.
In recent years, weight restrictions on Kelsey Creek Bridges 2 and 3 have made life more complicated for those who depend on them most. For primary producers, especially during the busy sugar crushing season, these restrictions have meant longer trips and more logistical challenges when moving heavy vehicles, machinery and goods.
That’s why I’m very pleased to share that this project has now been prioritised, and funding is secured to deliver a long-term solution. Council has successfully secured more than $4.5 million through the Australian Government’s Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program, which will cover 80 per cent of the $5.6 million project cost.
On top of this, Council has committed further funding through the Transport Infrastructure Development Scheme to enable heavy vehicle bypasses to be fast-tracked while the permanent replacements are designed and constructed.
These bypasses will provide bed level crossings in waterways to comply with fisheries requirements and be built to a dry-weather standard and will immediately ease pressure on farmers and transport operators by creating alternate access for heavy vehicles. Officers are still to determine the ultimate alignment for the new bridges and detour options for all vehicles during construction.
I want to acknowledge the strong advocacy of Divisional Councillors John Collins and Gary Simpson, who have worked tirelessly to ensure this project was elevated as a priority. Both Councillors have been strong voices for their communities and have pushed hard to make sure local farmers, graziers and residents get the infrastructure they need. Their commitment has played a key role in helping Council secure the funding and drive this project forward.
This project simply would not have been possible without the support of the Australian Federal Government. Their recognition of the importance of this investment and willingness to commit significant funding has made it possible for Council to get on with the job. On behalf of our community, I sincerely thank the Federal Government for backing the Whitsundays and our rural industries.
I also want to thank local landholders for working with Council officers to help identify practical bypass options. Their recent cooperation and input have been invaluable in making sure we can move quickly and effectively.
Council’s focus is now on delivery. By prioritising this project and empowering our officers to take the necessary steps, we’re making sure the solutions are implemented as soon as possible.
This project will bring real benefits to our rural industries and communities, not just for today but for decades to come. It’s a clear sign of our commitment to practical infrastructure that supports the people who drive our local economy.
September is Rural Road Safety Month, a timely reminder to take extra care on our rural roads. Almost two in every three road deaths occur on rural roads, where long distances, isolation and tough conditions increase the risks. Every trip matters, whether it’s to work, school, or visiting loved ones. By slowing down, staying alert and driving with care, we can all help prevent tragedy and keep our community safe.
Find out more at the Australian Road Safety Foundation’s website: www.arsf.com.au/rural-road-safety-month
The spectacular Whitsunday venue Elementa Whitsundays has been honoured with a prestigious award for Tourism and Leisure Facilities at the Master Builders Mackay and Whitsunday Housing & Construction Awards. It has cemented the venue as one of Airlie Beach’s most exciting destinations for visitors and locals alike.
The award recognises the vision and dedication behind the hilltop development overlooking the Coral Sea, a project that began as a bold idea more than a decade ago and has since grown into a landmark attraction.
Glenn Hitch said the award was a testament to the craftsmanship and teamwork of all involved in bringing the project to life.
Although the vision was clear from the outset, turning it into reality required persistence and collaboration.
“The challenge was getting the idea in my head to be just as clear for everyone else,” Glenn explained. “But I had a lot of help and input from other people. It wasn’t just me, it was a real team effort.”
Among those acknowledged were Cumberland Homes as the principal contractor, along with Gangemi Cabinet Makers, Coastal Brush Painters, Holly Gardner Interior Design, Adfab Industries, Shellco, Andy Manners, and George and Bare Tiling. Each played a role in shaping the award-winning venue into what it is today.
The development first began in 2006 with the purchase of the land, which sat untouched for a decade before the first stage of accommodation was built in 2017.
From the beginning, the goal was to create more than just a place to stay; it was about building something that would be a primary reason for visitors to choose Airlie Beach for weddings, corporate events, and unique Whitsunday experiences.
“We're really proud to win this award, because this is what this building is for, it’s to bring tourists into the town, and that's what it's about,” exclaimed Glenn.
“We're not bringing Melbourne or Sydney to Airlie Beach; we are about showcasing the Whitsundays. So hence the view, hence the gin, hence our menu. Everything is reflecting what the Whitsundays has to offer, and we're doing it in an elevated way.”
In addition to its event spaces, the venue has expanded its offerings to include a distillery, with spirits crafted using locally sourced ingredients, including Whitsunday rainwater. The unique addition, which came during the build, required changes to the original plans but has since become a defining feature.
Glenn said the idea was to capture the Whitsundays not just in the venue, but in their spirits too.
“And we’re having a lot of fun with it,” he said.
Community has also been at the heart of the business, with the venue sponsoring local events such as Race Week and the Airlie Beach Festival of Music.
Glenn said supporting locals is vital to their business. “We’re a community-based business, and we want to see the community do well.”
“Our local clientele are also very important. The second part of that is, if you start to bring in weddings or events from out of town, that will also employ more local businesses, because they're subsidiary to what we do.
Essentially, we're a venue, a distillery, and we're accommodation. But wedding planning, and all these types of events, the more active we are, the better it's going to be for other local businesses
“The more people that come through the doors, everyone wins.”
While originally operating solely as an event venue, the team has gradually opened its doors to the public for ticketed experiences, with 74 Islands Cocktail Club on Friday evenings and an exciting new signature dining series in development.
From award-winning design to a growing reputation as a premier Whitsunday destination, Elementa Whitsundays' future is bright.
And with this latest accolade, the team behind it can take pride in knowing they’ve not only created a world-class facility but also a place that will continue to bring new energy and visitors to Airlie Beach for years to come.
Eighteen-year-old Jake Duggan is proving that passion and hard work pay off, having been named the MTA Institute Apprentice of the Month for July.
Jake, who is in the second year of his auto electrical apprenticeship, works at Proserpine Auto Air and Electrical. His pathway into the trade began in a roundabout way—when owners Ray and Lisa Boyle asked him to help clean the workshop after school. That part-time job soon evolved into work experience and, before long, a school-based apprenticeship.
Having always been interested in cars, and considering a career as an electrician, Jake quickly realised this trade was the perfect way to combine the two.
“When I was growing up, my dad had earthmoving equipment, trucks and so on, and I just found it interesting,” Jake said.
Now, working alongside Ray, Jake enjoys the diversity of the jobs that come through the business. In an agricultural area like Proserpine, that means not only working on cars and trucks but also machinery and even the occasional aircraft.
“In the summertime, air conditioning is probably our main focus, but we work on the systems in cars, trucks, farming machinery and equipment, even helicopters and planes occasionally,” said Jake.
“And I’m involved any time they have something that’s a bit different. My boss really likes getting a good variety of jobs. At the moment we’re doing dual battery isolator set ups for travellers and caravan owners.”
Jake’s dedication was especially clear earlier this year when a serious road accident left Ray and Lisa away from the business for several weeks. With the help of family members, including Lisa’s father Terry, Jake stepped up to keep the workshop running. He took on stock control, diagnostics, customer service and more.
“To me, that didn’t seem like that big of a thing to do at the time … I just did it,” he said modestly.
His commitment and ability beyond his years has earned high praise from his employers and now state-level recognition. Looking ahead, Jake knows the automotive industry is always evolving and is ready to embrace the changes. Electric vehicles, for example, are already on his radar.
“We don’t see too many around here, but there are a few getting around, and they are becoming a lot more popular,” he said.
“I’m not super-interested in them, but once I have finished my apprenticeship I will look at doing some training to work on them. I want to keep learning, take things as they are and see how things go.”
With his skill, work ethic, and eagerness to learn, it’s clear Jake Duggan has a bright future in the automotive trade.
Jake Duggan has been named MTA Institute Apprentice of the Month for July (Photo Supplied)
Red Emperor Constructions, based in Cannonvale, had a successful night at the 2025 Mackay & Whitsunday Housing & Construction Awards.
Director and Owner/Builder, Alistair Sawers accepted 4 Awards, including the highly sought after House of the Year, for the magnificent Haven on Hamilton.
Alistair gracefully thanked the team at Red Emperor Constructions, the trades that contributed to this epic win, as well as Master Builders and all other award recipients. Site Manager, Iain Karon accepted the award for the recently completed Stage 8C of the Grove.
Held at the Mantra Mackay on 9 August, the industry’s night of nights was well attended and enjoyed by Red Emperor Constructions staff and partners.
Master Builders Queensland quoted “Haven on Hamilton is among the most challenging builds Red Emperor Constructions have ever undertaken – but the result is spectacular.
"The team drew high praise from our judges for their planning and innovation transporting materials from the mainland to the steep rocky site, perfectly executed construction and high-end finishes.
"The result is a luxurious island home boasting polished concrete floors, exposed concrete and cedar ceilings, stunning timber joinery, and an infinity edge pool taking in the breathtaking Whitsunday views.”
Red Emperor Constructions won the following awards at the 2025 Master Builders Awards:
The Red Emperor Constructions crew at the 2025 Master Builders Awards. Photo sourced: Facebook
A stunning 400-square-metre home at Botanica Drive has earned Eastwood Projects their first Master Builders Award, marking a major milestone for the local construction company.
“This was our first time entering the Master Builders Awards, so to come away with a win makes it even more special,” said Gabbi Eastwood from Eastwood Projects.
“We really appreciate how Master Builders celebrate builders and high-quality workmanship, it feels good to be acknowledged for that.”
The intricately designed home, located within the gated estate in Woodwark, took around 14 months to complete and stood out for its craftsmanship and detailed carpentry. The property has since been sold, but its impact has left a lasting impression on the team.
Designed with a strong focus on detail, the home has become a benchmark project for the company, which is now setting its sights on future builds with the hope of further recognition in next year’s awards.
Currently, Eastwood Projects is working on two major projects in Airlie Beach. The first is a striking three-storey modern holiday home at The Beacons on Boathaven Beach. The second is a full renovation of one of the original Airlie Crescent shacks, where the team is set to transform the old structure into a modern residence while preserving its coastal character.
With one award already under their belt and more ambitious projects on the horizon, Eastwood Projects is quickly building a reputation for high-quality design and construction in the Whitsundays.
Whitsundays-based company Tin Lid Enterprises has achieved its biggest milestone yet, taking out the prestigious Commercial Trade Contractor of the Year award at the Master Builders Awards.
This award, which is the highest at the regional level, now positions the local family-owned business for the state finals in October.
The award recognised Tin Lid’s outstanding work on the region’s new fire station, a project that demanded precision and technical skill. Over three months, the team completed all roofing and wall cladding, installing an impact-resistant system that required pre-drilling and aligning more than 10,000 holes.
Tin Lid Enterprises have been nominated in the Master Builders Awards for the last three years. In 2024, they won Judges' Commendation, but owners Kate Lilly and Nic Buhler always had their eyes set on the Commercial Trade Contractor of the Year award.
Founded in 2021 by Nic and Kate, Tin Lid Enterprises has steadily grown while keeping its close-knit, family approach. The business has trained apprentices, including one who was named Indigenous Apprentice of the Year, and continues to advocate for more young people to consider roofing as a trade.
With the award on their toolbelt, the team is now gearing up for a busy 12 months ahead, taking on major projects including the Mackay Regional Council Resource Centre of Excellence, St Patrick’s College, Carlisle Adventist College, Aldi and Harvey Norman in Cannonvale and extensions for Bunnings.
Tin Lid Enterprises are proud to have won Commercial Trade Contractor of the Year award at the Master Builders Awards. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
Jay is a young, lovable boy with a heart full of affection and a tail that never stops wagging. He’s been waiting patiently for his second chance, and now he’s ready to find his forever family.
This gorgeous pup is playful, friendly, and loves being around people. He’s the perfect mix of fun and loyalty — always up for an adventure but just as happy to curl up beside you at the end of the day.
Jay’s Perfect Home:
• A kind, loving family who can include him in daily life
• Secure fencing to keep him safe
• Someone ready to give him the time, training, and love he deserves
Jay’s Details:
Jay has so much love to give — he just needs the right person to give him a chance. Could that be you?
Message Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue with your name and contact number to learn more or arrange a meet-and-greet.
Last fortnight, we met the Red Brain – the angry, reactive part that yells, hits, and melts down.
But what about when your child isn’t exploding – they’re withdrawing?
They’re quiet, teary, refusing to talk, or saying things like “I’m dumb,” “No one likes me,” or “I can’t do it.” That’s the Blue Brain.
The Blue Brain is our emotional brain. It’s where sadness, worry, and fear live. It’s where kids feel hurt but don’t know how to ask for help. Unlike the Red Brain, the Blue Brain doesn’t roar – it whispers. And because it’s quieter, it often gets missed.
Children stuck in Blue Brain mode might seem overly sensitive, avoidant, or flat – but underneath, they’re struggling with big feelings they don’t have the words for yet.
In counselling, I help children understand what’s going on inside and teach them how to name their feelings, ask for help, and build emotional resilience. We also work with parents to create safe, connected environments where kids feel seen and heard – even in their lowest moments.
If your child seems down, anxious, or overwhelmed, trust your instincts.
You don’t need to wait for things to “get really bad” to reach out.
Call 0418708214 today to book a counselling session that supports both you and your child.
Next fortnight: What’s the goal of it all? Let’s meet the calm, clever, super problem-solver, Green Brain.
Sharon Ashman
CMHN MPAS GD Psych
By Hannah McNamara
Mackay recently marked Veterans Day and Victory in the Pacific (VP) Day, honouring the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of Australians who served in the armed forces. From battlefields to skies and seas, veterans faced extraordinary challenges to protect their country and its people.
These commemorations do more than reflect on the past, they pass on stories of valour and service to future generations. Firsthand experiences, like those of Vietnam veterans, help young Australians understand the realities of war, the cost of freedom, and the importance of resilience, courage, and faith.
By remembering those who never returned, supporting those who endured lasting scars, and celebrating acts of heroism, these days ensure that sacrifices are never forgotten. They inspire communities to value peace, uphold gratitude, and foster a sense of duty for generations to come.
Lest We Forget.
Mackay stood in solemn solidarity at Jubilee Park, gathering on Friday, 15th August for VP Day and Monday, 18th August for Vietnam Veterans Day, to honour and remember the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of Australians who served. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
By Hannah McNamara
On August 18, as the sun set over Jubilee Park, locals gathered in solidarity to remember, honour and commemorate approximately 60,000 Australians who fought in the Vietnam War.
Adorned with medals and badges, many carried a quiet resilience that spoke volumes of their service and sacrifice. The wider veteran community stood shoulder to shoulder in support, paying tribute to the bravery of those who served.
Whether on the ground as soldiers, at sea with the Royal Australian Navy, or in the skies with the Royal Australian Air Force, each and every person who contributed, whether in combat or transport, deserves to be remembered and recognised.
Many were drafted at just 20 years old, some even younger, to serve their country. Some never returned. Others came home wounded, scarred, and burdened with memories that lingered long after the weapons were laid down.
Today, the focus remains on informing future generations, supporting those who sacrificed so much, and preserving the history that has helped shape our nation.
Among those who stood at Jubilee Park was Peter Loosmore, a living testimony of faith forged through fear. He fought in Vietnam, overcame his dread of dying, and now lives in freedom, despite the deep scars of war.
For him, everything changed one night in 1972.
He recalled the “hot, humid” evening before his first time in combat, when the weight of death pressed heavily on him.
“We were to fly out the next morning.
“I looked up because I was scared of dying, and I said, ‘God, if you are real, please look after me.’”
He had no idea those words would mark the beginning of a new life – one that would later see him sharing his story of faith with hundreds around the world.
The war itself was brutal. Mr Loosmore endured gruelling conditions and witnessed sights he will never forget. When he returned home, the emotional toll manifested in heavy drinking and the struggles of PTSD.
But something else awaited him. After Vietnam, he was introduced to a faith he had never known.
“After returning to Australia safely another soldier shared the gospel message of Jesus Christ and forgiveness of my sins, and to be born again," he said.
“Since that day, I am a born again Christian following Jesus and I now have no fear of dying.
“That was the most positive thing that happened to me in Vietnam.”
Like many veterans, he admitted the years after the war were far from easy.
**“I was drinking really bad. I was a bit of a mess,” he said. **
“But Jesus healed me.”
Conscripted at just 21 through the national service lottery, Mr Loosmore remembers clearly the unique position he held.
“I was one of the last to go,” he recalled. “And one of the last to leave Vietnam.”
Now celebrating his 75th birthday, Mr Loosmore reflects on that desperate prayer whispered before his first patrol.
For him, it remains the turning point of his life.
He continues to encourage others to surrender their fears and embrace the same freedom he found, through faith in Jesus Christ.
Lest We Forget
Australian Army Training Team Vietnam (AATTV) base at Van Kiep, South Vietnam - where Peter Loosmore cried out for protection before facing his first combat. Photo source: Australian War Memorial
Vietnam veteran Peter Loosmore now serves as a pastor, traveling overseas to preach the gospel and share his story of faith and resilience with communities around the world. Photo source: Peter Loosmore
Mr Loosmore served with the Australian Army in 1972, and faced the harsh realities of combat before finding faith that transformed his life. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
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