We place significant focus on building a career by developing our skills, acquiring qualifications and putting in the effort in the work we do. While these elements are an important foundation, there is another that is just significant, and that is the power of connection.

Careers are not built in isolation and the connections we build along the way support personal growth, open up (often hidden) opportunities and feed into longer-term success. Careers are a lot about people so creating meaningful professional relationships on the journey does make a difference.

Here’s some key reasons why connection is key.

Connection is more than networking: the mere mention of networking, especially in face to face environments, tends to bring out the sweats in many people and especially introverts. In the interest of building connection, you do have to talk to people and engage in conversation and by taking a genuine interest in others, you build authenticity.

Reputation matters: when professional connections are built on mutual respect, curiosity and a growth mindset, you create a positive vibe and this develops with each of your interactions to help build your credibility and visibility.

Connection opens opportunities: when you engage with your trusted professional circle, you often find out about opportunities that may not ordinarily surface across your desk and before they are ever publicly available. The adage ‘it’s as much about who you know than what you know’ still holds true and your relationships can open career opportunities.

Connection builds community: genuine connections based on trust and respect create a sense of inclusion and build a community where we feel valued and it nurtures well-being. The evidence indicates that human connection reduces stress and builds resilience.

Connection expands your influence: the more you build and expand your professional network, the more opportunity you have to contribute, influence and make a difference. Also your connections enable you to share ideas and learn informally from others, supporting your personal and professional growth.

Connection is about forming genuine professional relationships with people. Whether attending events or engaging through online platforms, take the opportunity to connect. The people you meet and the conversations you have will impact your career journey and build your reputation as much as the work you do.

Feeling unsure on how to build those professional connections; let’s talk it through and work it out together  - contact me at powerup@careerforceaustralia.com.au or 0409 894 131 to learn more.

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When it comes to social media marketing, most of us focus on posting – but your profiles themselves can do a lot of the heavy lifting. Think of them as an online shopfront. When someone clicks through – can they quickly + easily see who you are, what you do + how to take the next step? If not, it’s time for a few simple tweaks that can make a big difference!!

Instagram bio glow up

If someone sees your content in their feed, they’ll often check your profile before following. Make sure it answers the basics straight away:

· Who you help

· The result you deliver

· An example of credibility (ie “500+ clients” or “Locally owned since 2018”)

· Clear call to action (CTA)

Example: Instead of “XYZ Fitness – Mums + bubs classes, all levels of fitness”, try “Helping busy Mums feel strong in 30min • 500+ clients • Book a free trial ↓”. The first one is fine, but the second is optimised to make people take action.

Other quick wins:

· Add a prime keyword to your profile name – this is searchable too!

· Add your website or booking link – the link that matches your main CTA

· Check you’re on a professional account – ensure your category + contact details are correct + set to display

· Pin 3 posts that show what you do, proof you’re good at it + how to start with you

· Clean up Story Highlights – rename them to be helpful, not random (eg Start Here, Offers, FAQs, BTS – topics that will help people decide if you are the right fit for them)

Facebook fixes

Your About section should follow the same rule – who you help, result, proof + CTA. Keep it short and clear – simplicity ALWAYS wins.

Then check:

· Check all the info is correct – hands up who hates going to a business’s FB page + finding that the info is out of date or inconsistent with their website (so what ARE their open hours? Which one to believe???)

· Use your Big Blue – the call-to-action button under your cover image – and make sure it matches your main goal (Book Now, Call Now etc)

· In Details about you, use a keyworded up blurb from your website to give a full rundown on who you are + what you can do – this is also searchable!

· Invite your friends to follow your page – if it’s relevant to them (logged in as you, click on the 3 dots under the cover image + click Invite friends)

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Kaley-Jade Baker’s Rise on Air

By Amanda Wright

A life that might have gone off the rails has instead found its megaphone.

Kaley-Jade Baker’s rise from a fractured childhood to one of regional radio’s most compelling voices is a study in grit, reinvention and the redemptive power of community — and this year her work has been rewarded in the only currency that matters in broadcasting: listeners.

Come survey day at ARN’s Star FM in Mackay, staff were stunned to learn the station had climbed to the top across the board. Kaley’s afternoon show was the biggest story of all — up an extraordinary 19 points to a 39.5 share, with an additional 94,000 listeners tuning in. For a presenter who arrived in regional radio almost by accident, the numbers confirmed what locals had already been saying: people want authentic local voices.

Her path to that sound has not been straightforward. Born in Dubbo and moving to Brisbane at 12, Kaley drifted between cities and identities through her teens. A family tragedy — the death of her sister when Kaley was young — forced adult responsibilities on her while leaving a lasting fissure of grief.

“My mum never really coped after that,” Kaley recalls.

“I felt like I had to step into the parent role, but I was still just a kid. I was hurting too, and I didn’t always make the best choices.”

By her teenage years, she admits she was heading down the wrong path.

“I had family members who weren’t exactly role models, and I was mixing with the wrong crowd. It was getting bad. Really bad.”

That trajectory changed thanks to one decisive act of love. Kaley’s aunty invited her to Mackay for what Kaley thought was a Christmas holiday — but it was really an intervention.

“She rang my mum and said, ‘She’s not coming back. Consider it boarding school,’” Kaley says with a smile. Enrolled at Holy Spirit, stranded without a licence on her aunt’s property, she suddenly had structure. She also had horses.

“Horses became therapy for me,” Kaley explains.

“They gave me purpose, routine, something outside myself to focus on. I honestly don’t think I’d be the person I am today without that time in Mackay — or without her. She saved my life.”

That grounding gave Kaley the resilience to chase opportunities that came later — though she never imagined radio would be one of them.

“It wasn’t even on my radar. I was working at a uni as an executive assistant when someone said, ‘We need a presenter for the student news — she talks underwater, let’s throw her in.’ I’d never done anything like it, but somehow I nailed it. And suddenly, I’d found something I didn’t know I’d been looking for.”

Radio soon became a passion. Kaley worked her way through community stations, the ABC and regional commercial networks, learning the craft from the ground up. By the time she returned to Mackay, she had discovered not just a career but a calling.

“There’s a difference between a job and a career,” she says.

“When I walked into a radio studio, I just knew — this is where I’m meant to be.”

Listeners have felt it too. This year, survey results showed Kaley’s afternoon show has skyrocketed, pulling in tens of thousands of listeners across Mackay and Townsville.

“That’s what I love most about radio — it’s one-on-one. It’s me talking to you,” she says.

“And I think people respond to that honesty. They want to hear from someone who gets what it’s like to live here.”

Off air, her creativity doesn’t stop. From promotions and giveaways to product launches and community events, Kaley thrives on connection.

“It’s not just about being in the studio,” she says.

“It’s about being part of the community and bringing that energy back on air.”

Her effervescent personality — once dismissed by some as “too much” — is now her greatest asset.

“I’ve always been loud, passionate, full-on,” she laughs.

“For a long time, people told me to tone it down. But honestly? That’s who I am. That energy is what’s carried me here.”

And it’s carrying her further still. Kaley recently appeared on Channel Nine’s Tipping Point and has already auditioned for Big Brother.

“It would be a lifelong dream come true to make it on the show,” she says.

For now, her focus remains on the people of Mackay and the Whitsundays, who have embraced her as one of their own.

“This place gave me a second chance,” Kaley reflects.

“I don’t take that for granted. Every time I go on air, I want people to feel like they’ve got a mate riding shotgun with them. Because that’s what radio is — it’s personal, it’s real, and it’s powerful.”

From grief and chaos to ratings and recognition, Kaley’s story is one of survival and reinvention. But more than anything, it’s about voice — the voice she nearly lost, and the one she now shares with thousands every afternoon.

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Kaley-Jade Baker brings her vibrant energy to the airwaves, connecting with listeners across Mackay and the Whitsundays. Photos supplied

Kaley with Todd Woodbridge, host of Tipping Point Australia, ahead of her appearance on the show

Kaley as MC for the Just Saying Project's 2025 Women's Awards, showcasing her commitment to community support

Kaley finds solace and purpose in horseback riding, a therapeutic outlet that played a pivotal role in her personal journey.

A young Kaley, a country girl who found her voice in the big smoke

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A large, grey brick wall in the heart of Sarina will soon be transformed into a vibrant and lasting work of art, celebrating the area.

Internationally renowned Grasstree Beach artist, Donna Marie Robinson, will work with young people and First Nations residents of the Sarina area to design and paint a mural on the exterior of the Grand Central.

Workshops will be held Monday, September 22 to Wednesday, September 24 at the Sarina Youth Centre to develop the mural.

Work to paint the mural will be done between Wednesday, October 1 to Friday, October 3.

Artspace Director, Tracey Heathwood said the project was a wonderful way to give young people a space to express themselves and leave a lasting impression on the town.

“Projects like this foster pride in the local region, create connection and allow for personal growth and development,” Ms Heathwood said.

“It’s a great opportunity for Sarina residents to learn from a highly experienced artist, who’s exhibited locally, interstate and overseas.”

Mayor Greg Williamson said the project, which is supported by Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal, is aimed at young people aged 12 to 25, with a key focus on First Nations creators.

“You don’t need to be an accomplished artist to get involved – there will be plenty of support to help guide and develop your creativity,” Mayor Williamson said.

Multi-media artist, Donna-Marie Robinson said she was excited to see what the workshop participants create.

“I worked with young people a few years ago to create a montage of artwork that went onto large letters that spelled out ‘Mackay’ and I was blown away by how clever and creatively talented they were,” Ms Robinson said.

“It’s exciting to be able to provide a way for young people to express themselves, show what they think of the area and their experience of growing up in Sarina.

“I love the idea of helping create something that will outlive me and that those who are involved it are proud to show their friends, family and future generations.”

To register for the workshops, call the Sarina Youth Centre on 4961 9278 or text
0448 941 077.

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The large grey brick wall will provide a giant canvas for the youth of Sarina to leave their mark on the town. Photos supplied

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2025 PIPA Investor Survey

OPINION PIECE

Australia’s rental market is under mounting pressure as a record number of property investors exit the sector, driven by rising costs, legislative uncertainty, and concerns over proposed federal tax reforms.

The 2025 Annual Property Investor Sentiment Survey, released today by the Property Investment Professionals of Australia (PIPA), shows that 16.7 per cent of investors sold at least one property in the past year – up from 14.1 per cent last year and 12.1 per cent in 2023.

This marks the highest rate of investor sales since the question was first introduced in the survey in 2022. At that time, about 17 per cent of investors indicated they had sold at least one investment property in the previous two years – or 8.5 per cent annually.

“This isn’t just a continuation of last year’s trend – it’s an acceleration,” PIPA Chair Lachlan Vidler said.

“We’re seeing a growing number of long-term investors walking away, and the implications for renters are severe. The private rental market is losing stock at a time when demand is surging, and policy uncertainty is only making things worse.”

Rental stock shrinking
Only 42 per cent of properties sold remained in the rental pool because they were bought by other investors. Meanwhile, 37 per cent were purchased by owner-occupiers and 25 per cent by first-home buyers, effectively removing them from rental circulation.

“This shift is structural, not temporary,” Mr Vidler said.

“Once a property leaves the rental market, it rarely returns. We’re watching the slow dismantling of Australia’s rental supply, and tenants are paying the price through rising rents and reduced availability.”

State-by-state breakdown
Queensland continues to lead the nation in investor exits, with 35.5 per cent of respondents selling at least one property in the state – up from 33.4 per cent last year. Victoria followed at 30 per cent, while New South Wales saw a sharp decline to 11.8 per cent, down from 25.4 per cent in 2024.

Investor sentiment deteriorating
The survey highlights a growing unease among investors, particularly around proposed federal reforms.

When asked whether they would continue investing in property if negative gearing was altered, 53 per cent said they would stop investing. An additional 25 per cent were unsure, leaving just 22 per cent willing to continue.

Similarly, if the CGT discount were reduced to 25 per cent after 12 months of ownership, 35 per cent of investors said they would exit the market. Another 29 per cent remained undecided and 36 per cent said they would continue investing.

“These figures show a clear erosion of confidence,” Mr Vidler said.
“The mere suggestion of changes to negative gearing or CGT is enough to destabilise investor sentiment. These aren’t fringe concerns – they’re mainstream fears held by thousands of everyday Australians who provide rental housing.”

Rising costs and selling pressure
The top reasons for selling included reducing overall debt exposure (41.7 per cent), rising holding and compliance costs (40.4 per cent), and increased land tax and government charges (32.9 per cent).

Operational costs also continue to climb. This year, 39 per cent of investors reported increases of between 11 and 20 per cent, compared to 34 per cent last year. More than 21 per cent said costs had risen by 21 to 41 per cent.

Despite these pressures, most investors are absorbing costs. A full 65 per cent said they had passed on just 10 per cent or less of their increased costs through rent hikes.

“This shows the resilience and responsibility of Australia’s property investors,” Mr Vidler said.
“They’re doing their best to shield tenants from rising costs, but there’s a limit. Without meaningful support, many will be forced to reconsider their position.”

Investor sentiment around selling is also intensifying. This year, 36 per cent of respondents said it was a good time to sell – up from 29 per cent last year. The future risk of federal reforms was the top reason (51.3 per cent), followed by compliance costs and land tax.

A fragile optimism
Despite the challenges, nearly 60 per cent of investors believe the next 12 months is a good time to invest in residential property – down slightly from 63 per cent last year.

“There’s still belief in the fundamentals of property investment, but that belief is more fragile,” Mr Vidler said.

“If governments want to preserve the integrity of the rental market, they must listen to investors, provide clarity, and avoid knee-jerk reforms that risk doing more harm than good. As Australia grapples with housing affordability and rental shortages, the voice of the investor has never been more critical.”

PIPA Chair Lachlan Vidler. Photo supplied

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TWO $2 MILLION LOTTO TICKETS SOLD IN THE WHITSUNDAYS IN ONE WEEK!

Two life-changing Lotto tickets were sold in the Whitsundays within just seven days of each other. Hickmott's Supa News in Bowen sold a $2.5 million winning ticket on Saturday, 6 September, and News Whitsundays at Whitsunday Plaza in Cannonvale sold a $2 million winning ticket on Saturday, 12 September.

Lucky Locals Scoop Millions

The Whitsundays is buzzing with excitement this week following the announcement that two winning Lotto tickets valued at over $2 million each were purchased locally.

The ticket sold at Hickmott's Supa News in Bowen remains unclaimed as of Wednesday, 17 September, sparking speculation it may have been purchased by a visitor unaware of their good fortune.

“We were so excited when we first found out,” said Angela Stevens, manager of Hickmott’s Supa News.

“It’s so nice to have another major lottery win come our way, as it’s been a few years since our last one! The winner could be anyone, especially with all the visitors in town for the Don River Dash and Father’s Day.

"While it would be great if a local won, we’ll be happy for whoever it is.”

Meanwhile, the $2 million ticket purchased at News Whitsundays has already been claimed.

The lucky ticket holder only discovered their win when they brought the ticket in to be checked.

“They had no idea they’d won until we told them, and I think they were in shock!” said Renee from News Whitsunday. “It was won by a local, which is great because that money stays in our region.”

Congratulations to the lucky winner from everyone in the community.

If you have an unchecked Lotto ticket hiding at the bottom of your bag, bring it into a local retailer—you could be the missing ticket holder and $2.5 million richer!

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Renee and Michelle from News Whitsunday at Whitsunday Plaza in Cannonvale where a $2 million winning Lotto ticket was sold over the weekend. Photo credit: Rachael Smith.

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Hi everyone, I hope you’ve all had a great week.

Last Friday we sent our latest editions of Core and Tripping to print. The build-up is always exciting but stressful, and the following week the whole office feels the relief—it’s nice to catch a breath before diving into the next edition.

From Monday, Core and Tripping will be hitting stands around town. This edition of Core was an especially exciting one for me. As Rachael mentioned in a previous editor’s note, I had the chance to interview Johnathan Thurston. I come from a Rugby Union background myself, but I still watched him play in Origin, and it was awesome to have a chat with him.

Although I prefer Union, I was still nervous and felt a little bit of pressure on the journey up to Townsville.

The Johnathon Thurston Academy is dedicated to supporting disadvantaged and Indigenous youth, helping them build confidence, skills, and cultural identity. Programs cover education, employment readiness, leadership, and mental health, with initiatives encouraging goal-setting and positive role models.

Built on JT’s core values of confidence, courage, and self-belief, the Academy places a strong emphasis on community and family engagement.

He said the long-term vision is to see the Academy expand nationally, and he wants to give more young Australians the chance to unlock their potential and pursue their dreams.

Leaving the interview with JT, Rach, Trish and I felt inspired and proud—not only for having interviewed a high-profile ex-athlete known across the country, but also for what it meant for Core Magazine.

Soon we’ll begin the creative process for the November/December editions of Core and Tripping magazines, which will feature Year in Review pieces and Pets in Business. I always enjoy this issue; seeing our political figures’ years spotlighted in articles is one of my favourite reads.

Quote of the Week: "Pressure? What pressure? Pressure is for tyres." - Alan Shearer

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The Whitsunday Lions Club have once again shown their commitment to the community, raising more than $12,000 at their annual fourth Charity Golf Day, hosted by Whitsunday Green. The funds have been donated to the Proserpine Hospital and the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN).

The Proserpine Hospital announced that with the donation they will be purchasing a Patient Transfer Scale, a large board for transporting patients with an integrated weighing scale and a size chart. They also confirmed they will be purchasing a ‘Tweegy’ wheelchair, designed to have better manoeuvrability, a better braking system, a stackable design and more.

Golf Committee Chairman Alan Gravelle said the Whitsunday Lions Club has supported the Proserpine Hospital in the past and consistently help them out. He also added that the Golf Day is always a highlight for the club. “The Golf Day is always a great day and I am looking forward to more Charity Golf Days in the future,” he said.

Assistant Golf Manager at Whitsunday Green John Miller said it was his first time acting as Assistant Manager for the Charity Golf Day, but everything went smoothly.

“Over 180 players participated, it was a great success and hopefully next year we'll have a bigger course,” he said.

With record participation, strong community backing, and meaningful donations directed to vital services, the annual Charity Golf Day has once again proven to be more than just a sporting event. It is a tradition that brings people together, supports essential healthcare, and strengthens wellbeing across the Whitsundays.

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The Whitsunday Lions Club at Whitsunday Green donation $9,500 to the Proserpine Hospital

The Whitsunday Lions club also donated $3000 to WSPN

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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On Monday 15 September, 24 people took the pledge and the next step to become Australian Citizens.

Held at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre (PEC) with Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins, Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox, Whitsunday Regional Council Councillor Clay Bauman, and Uncle Leo Gabey present on the day.

Mayor Collins welcomed the new citizens, sharing what it means to be Australian and affirming that they are now part of this vibrant and enriching culture.

"Australia is built on values like fairness, equality, and respect for every individual. We believe in giving everyone a fair go. Working hard, supporting our communities, and embracing the unique qualities that each person brings," he said.

"As new citizens, you are now part of this shared journey, one that celebrates our differences and strengthens our unity.

"I know that each of you will carry these values forward, contributing to the ongoing story of our nation.

"Your diverse backgrounds, cultures, and experiences enrich our community, and we welcome you wholeheartedly."

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Coffee, Connections & Conversations

Last Friday Whitsunday Chamber and Porters Mitre 10 Whitsunday hosted a Pop Ip event and it was a morning was full of energy, conversation, and community spirit, with more than 30 local business operators and community members dropping by.

Guests enjoyed the StarFM live broadcast, plenty of giveaways, a tasty BBQ brekkie courtesy of Keith, and perfectly brewed coffee from McMoon Coffee Caravan. It was a fantastic opportunity to catch up with familiar faces, make new connections, and share ideas about business opportunities and challenges in the Whitsundays.

Above all, Chamber said it was a great opportunity for people to network without the formalities.

“What we aimed to do, was to have a bit of a focal point around an informal drop in for business owners, tradies and the general public to learn more about chamber, network, and get rid of all of that fussy formality that sometimes people don't enjoy about business education,” said Chamber.

“A lot of people were asking about our advocacy efforts, particularly into all levels of government, Council and state government in particular.

“Some of the things that were of interest to people were, how do I scale up my business, because we had representatives there from trade investment Queensland.

“People were thinking about, where are the export opportunities, and who's actually doing a lot of international trade? Even the little micro businesses that are based in the Whitsundays, what are they actually doing?

“Others were a little bit curious about what's going on with the cruise ship market, as well as some new faces looking at features and benefits becoming a chamber member.”

These casual, open-door networking mornings are about more than just coffee and conversation — they’re about building stronger relationships across the local business community.

The Chamber looks forward to bringing Pop Up Chamber events back in 2026, with more chances to connect, collaborate, and celebrate the great businesses that make the Whitsunday region thrive.

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Cait Fleming, Fiona Good, Jo Ryan, and Trish Jandt. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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A Fresh Take on a Local Tradition

The Bowen Fishing Classic is back for another year, offering a modern twist on a beloved local tradition. With over 30 years of history, this year’s event is reimagined to bring a fresh and exciting experience for both locals and visitors.

Organiser Lukas Adam, who moved to Bowen four years ago, has worked hard to modernise this year's event. “All the traditional elements you know and love, but with a fresh, reimagined twist to give the fishing classic a modern edge,” says Lukas. He’s passionate about using his digital marketing skills to reinvigorate the event for the community. Lukas adds, “I made the Fishing Classic into an official not-for-profit organisation and have secured long-term council backing as an economic tourism-driving event, as opposed to just a community event it was in the past.”

A major update this year is the increased focus on digital engagement. With a brand-new website, online ticket sales, and live event feeds, it’s easier than ever for attendees to participate and stay updated.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy, said it was fantastic that the Fishing Classic was being held again this year. “This event is great for locals and visitors, and we are pleased to see it is being held again in 2025. If this event grows in future years, it is sure to provide an economic boost for the region and attract more visitors to Bowen,” she said.

The competition promises to be fierce, with a range of exciting prizes up for grabs. Lukas shares, “Some of the biggest prizes include the $30,000 boat… and all the champion angler prizes.”

While Lukas has introduced a modern touch to the event, he remains committed to preserving the simplicity and charm that have made it a local favourite for decades. By blending tradition, innovation, and strong community spirit, the Bowen Fishing Classic continues to be an unmissable highlight of the year.

For more details, visit the Bowen Fishing Classic website: https://bfc.fish/.

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Just after 7am on Monday 15th September, the BMA CQ Rescue Helicopter was called to a multi-vehicle crash near Bowen, outside a service station between Proserpine and Bowen.

With several people injured, the rescue helicopter landed on the Bruce Highway so the medical team could provide urgent treatment. Emergency services worked together at the scene to deliver the best possible care.

Two patients required specialist treatment in Townsville. The aircraft was quickly reconfigured to transport both, arriving at Townsville Hospital about 10.30am where specialists were waiting.

BMA CQ Rescue General Manager Lisa Martin said moments like this highlight the crew’s innovation: “When it became apparent that two patients needed critical care urgently, while the Doctor and Paramedic treated the patients, the crew got to work and reconfigured the helicopter to ensure both patients would get to hospital as quickly as possible. To ensure there was enough room for the patients needed, one crew member opted to stay behind.”

Rescue Crew Officer Ben Grenier, who remained at the scene, said, “I didn’t think twice. They needed care. Of course, I opted out. I wish them all a speedy recovery.”

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The Collinsville community is in mourning following a tragic car crash near Springlands on Wednesday, 10th September, which claimed the lives of a beloved husband and wife.

Emergency services responded to a two-vehicle collision on Peter Delemothe Road, located between Strathalbyn and Strathmore Roads, around 12.30pm. Investigations suggest that a silver Mazda 2, travelling west, collided head-on with a white Toyota Hilux coming in the opposite direction.

Sadly, 63-year-old Glenville Drinkwater and his wife, 61-year-old Lynette Drinkwater, both from Collinsville, were pronounced dead at the scene. The male driver of the Mazda and his passenger, who were known and loved in the small North Queensland town, have left families, friends, and the entire community devastated by their sudden loss.

The driver of the Toyota Hilux was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Authorities are appealing for anyone with dashcam footage or additional information regarding the crash to come forward.

The Queensland Police Service reminds motorists that road safety is everyone’s responsibility. Serious crashes can often be avoided by steering clear of the “Fatal Five” risky driving behaviours: speeding, drink or drug driving, failure to wear seatbelts, fatigue, and distraction. For more information on road safety, visit qld.gov.au/police/fatal-five-staying-safe-roads.

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The Collinsville couple sadly lost their life in the crash

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Stronger Homes Grant

Earlier this year, many parts of North and Far North Queensland were hit hard by flooding. While the Whitsundays was fortunate not to experience widespread damage, it was still a challenging time for our region.

Families here watched the impacts unfold across the north, some of our residents were directly affected, and the uncertainty around weather events weighed heavily on our community.

That is why I welcome the Queensland Government’s recent announcement of the Stronger Homes Grant. This new program, jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments through the Commonwealth State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, is about giving homeowners practical support to prepare for the future.

The Stronger Homes Grant offers up to $10,000 for eligible homeowners to make their properties more flood resilient. It is not just about repairing what was damaged, it is about making smart improvements so that when the next flood comes, the impact is reduced. Examples include raising electrical switchboards, moving hot water systems or air conditioning units above flood levels, separating electrical circuits between floors, or replacing wall linings and floor coverings with materials that are easier to clean and dry after water inundation.

This program is open to both insured and uninsured homeowners, and funds are paid directly to licensed contractors or insurers once the works are complete. That means homeowners can focus on the improvements without worrying about how to manage the payments.

Applications are open now and will close on 31 December 2025, unless funds are fully allocated before that date. To apply, residents need to show proof of ownership, evidence that their home was inundated in the January and February floods, and a quote from a licensed contractor for the proposed works. Full details, including guidance for homeowners and contractors, are available at www.qld.gov.au/strongerhomesgrant.

As Mayor, I know how important it is for our community to be ready for whatever nature throws at us. Every step we take to strengthen our homes makes the whole Whitsunday region more resilient. I encourage anyone who is eligible to consider applying for this grant, and to share the information with friends, family and neighbours so no one misses out.

This is not just about repairing damage, it is about reducing the impact of the next event, so it is not as hard on our families or our community. By building resilience now, we give ourselves the best chance to recover more quickly and keep the Whitsundays moving forward together.

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This week marks the final chapter for the community newspaper Whitsunday News, which has been part of the region since its inception in 2020. After shifting to an online-only format in 2024, the publication has now announced it will officially close its doors.

Editor and founder Deborah Friend has been the driving force behind Whitsunday News since day one. In a touching gesture, Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm recently surprised Ms Friend with a gift basket and a certificate of appreciation.

“I was very touched and honoured to be recognised by our local MP Amanda Camm for my contribution to local media and the Whitsunday community during the five years of the Whitsunday News’ existence,” said Ms Friend.

Praised for her passionate advocacy for the Whitsundays, Ms Camm said that Whitsunday News captured the heart of our community.

"As she steps back from her formal role in local media, I offer my heartfelt thanks to Deborah Friend for her outstanding contribution to journalism in our region," said Ms Camm.

"Whether it was covering local council developments, community fundraisers or the stories of everyday people doing extraordinary things, Deborah brought both professionalism and empathy to every piece she produced. She has shown what it means to be a true community journalist; someone who listens, who cares, and who tells our stories with truth and heart.

"With sincere appreciation on behalf of our community, I thank you, Deborah, for your dedication, your voice, and your legacy. The Whitsundays are better for your work, and you will always be part of the story."

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Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm acknowledged Deb Friend's dedication to the community following the closure of Whitsunday News Newspaper after five years. Photo supplied

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