The Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre officially opened their Food Bank on Monday 1st September, a project that has been in the works for the last 12 months.

The Food Bank, funded by the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre’s op shop and sponsorship by North Queensland Bulk Ports and the Whitsunday Regional Council, is open Monday, Wednesday, Friday,  9am – 11am.

Executive Officer of the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre Rebecca Woods said she anticipates more products to come in that will extend their range of products.

“We are going to keep adding more, and a lot of it will be your staple items. Including, your basic pasta, rice, milk, breads, and breakfast cereals,” she said

“There will also be products for babies, children, as well as groceries such as fruit and veg, yoghurts, meat and fish.”

With the new Food Bank open, Rebecca hopes they will be able to serve and cater to more people in the community.

“We have had this idea since around August of last year, to grow our pantry that we have had for over a decade into a proper food bank and be able to cater to more people in our community,” she said.

“We wanted to be able to provide more low-cost groceries to our community as well, and also to preserve the dignity and being able to pay your own way.

“There's a lot of people who want to pay their own way but they just don't have the budget to stretch as far.”

At the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre foodbank everything is either around a third of retail price at supermarkets or free, thanks to donations.

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Rebecca Woods and Marina McMullen at the new Food Bank. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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In a powerful demonstration of community compassion, the Bowen Community Centre, led by Sally Roberts with support from Lauren Miller and Alison Byde of Abbot Point Operations, served 443 hot dogs to locals during a recent outreach event aimed at supporting people experiencing homelessness.

The event, on Tuesday 26 August, was made possible through the generous donation of produce by Andrew, manager of Woolworths, along with the enthusiastic participation of local businesses and schools. Each hot dog purchased helped fund backpacks, swags, and tents for vulnerable members of the Bowen community.

“This issue brings light to what I see every day,” said Sally Roberts, the Community Connect worker.

“Currently, 33 registered homeless individuals rely on our services. The need is urgent and growing.”

So far this year, Sally has raised approximately $2,500 to support essential programs. However, the lack of crisis accommodation remains a pressing concern.

“It’s heartbreaking,” said Stephanie, Executive Officer of the Centre. “We simply don’t have the facilities to house our homeless community. Offering a tent or backpack may seem inadequate, but it’s the only help we can provide.”

Kelly from Hillery Group added, “It’s a great cause, and we’re thrilled to have been part of it and to support the community.”

The Bowen Community Centre thanked the following organisations for contributing to the success of the event: Lowcocks Builders, Bowen Childcare, Hillery Group, Bowen Industrial Hire, Queens Beach State School, Rocks on Rock, Abbot Point Operations, Flexi School, Idea Placements, Uniting Church, Kylie’s Dental, and St Mary’s School.

The Centre offers a range of support services, including:
• Soup kitchen
• Food bank
• Shower facilities
• Laundry access

If you know someone experiencing homelessness, please contact the Homeless Hotline on 1800 474 753. When in doubt, refer them to the Bowen Community Centre—where help and connection to the right services are always available.

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Paddy may only be six months old, but this Bull Arab-x pup already has a heart full of love to give. Rescued from the pound alongside his brother, Paddy now finds himself on his own for the first time after his brother was adopted. While he’s still adjusting, this sweet boy is eager to find a forever family to call his own.

If ever there was a dog who deserves a happily-ever-after, it’s Paddy. With his gentle nature and playful spirit, he’s the perfect mix of sunshine and snuggles — happy to soak up the sun, play with his doggy pals, or simply enjoy human company.

What makes Paddy so special?

• Good with other dogs
• Playful, friendly, and eager to learn
• Loves sunbathing and spending time with people
• Gentle nature and lots of love to give
• Needs basic training but has plenty of potential
• Untested with cats and chickens
• Paddy is desexed, fully vaccinated, and ready to meet his new family.
• Adoption Fee: $400

Paddy has already shown he has all the makings of a loyal and loving companion. Now, all he needs is someone willing to open their heart and home to him. Could that someone be you?

Email Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc. now at Bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com.

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If there are two things every good tradie loves, it’s a bacon-and-egg brekkie and a yarn over a hot coffee. That’s exactly what’s on the menu when Porters Mitre 10 Whitsunday hosts the next Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry Pop Up Chamber on Friday 12 September from 9am to 11am.

This free, drop-in event is all about bringing the Whitsundays business community together – no speeches, no fuss, just great food, fresh coffee from McMoon Coffee Van, a StarFM outdoor broadcast, and a chance to win raffle prizes. Whether you’re a tradie on the go, a small business owner, or just keen to check in with the Chamber team, this is your chance to catch up, connect, and have your say.

Porters Mitre 10 Whitsunday is the perfect host. Since opening its Cannonvale store in 2002, the business has been keeping locals stocked with everything from nuts and bolts to full-scale building materials. Part of the Mitre 10 family since 2017, Porters is still proudly family-owned after more than 140 years. With its specialist paint store, Inspirations Paint Cannonvale, now open inside the store, it’s become a true one-stop shop for the region’s trades, DIY projects, and weekend warriors.

The Pop Up Chamber is open to everyone so bring your work crew, grab a coffee, and enjoy a BBQ brekkie on the house. Stick around for a chance to win some top prizes and meet other business owners who are shaping the Whitsundays.

What: Pop Up Chamber BBQ Brekkie, coffee, and prize draw
When: 9am–11am, Friday 12 September 2025
Where: Porters Mitre 10 Whitsunday, 2 Carlo Drive, Cannonvale

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Day Of Insights, Ideas, And Connection

The Whitsunday Business Conference held at TAFE Queensland Cannonvale Campus last Thursday, was a huge success.

Chamber President Allan Milostic said the event was sold out and feedback was outstanding.

“This year’s Conference was a sell-out, with 120 registrations representing 70 organisations across the Whitsundays. Feedback has been outstanding – more than 75% of attendees told us they loved the day, and everyone has walked away with actionable ideas to implement straight away,” he said.

“Delegates also reported stronger connections, fresh insights, and practical tips to improve efficiency and productivity.

“There’s clear support for making this an annual event, and we encourage businesses wanting to be part of the 2026 Conference to get in touch with the Chamber.”

Chamber President Allan Milostic also said the aim of the conference was simple; to provide a regular focal point for the Whitsundays business community and a chance to come together, learn from each other, and tackle the opportunities that lie ahead.

“The idea for the conference started pre-covid with the, then, Proserpine Chamber of Commerce. We returned to the idea in 2024 with the inaugural event held May 2024 with just over 55 people. The feedback we received was overwhelmingly positive, and it helped shape the program you’ll experience today. This year’s conference is truly a step forward, built by locals, for locals,” he said at the conference.

“I’d like to sincerely thank our sponsors, without whom this event would not be possible: Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine, Tassal, Shiift, My Pathway, the Greater Whitsunday Regional Jobs Committee, Mackay and Whitsunday Life, and TAFE Queensland. Your partnership over the 2024 and 2025 conferences has been critical in bringing this vision to life.

“Of course, events like this don’t happen without a lot of work behind the scenes. Our Conference Committee, chaired by Megan Taylor, has worked tirelessly alongside Jannah Baker of Scallywag Fabrication, Julia Wheway of TAFE Queensland, and Dr Julia Evans, our Chamber Liaison. Together with the support of our incredible volunteers, they’ve turned an idea into a program that’s ready to inspire and deliver value to every delegate here today. A big thank you to all of them.”

See more social pics here: https://tinyurl.com/2dghrcuk

Hello everyone!

After an incredible five weeks exploring the Northern Territory and Western Australia, Ruth2Reef is back!

There were so many unforgettable moments on my travels, but one that truly stands out was swimming with humpback whales on the Ningaloo Reef. I joined an eco tour and was lucky enough to get so close that one almost brushed me with its pectoral fin!

I’m excited to share stories, travel tips, and insights from my journey, along with the inspiring environmental initiatives I discovered on that side of the country.

In this weeks very exciting edition we have more on humpback whales, maori wrasse's, and the wonderful whale sharks!

Happy Reading!

Ruth

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The humpback whales have arrived to the Whitsundays on mass and the breeding season has begun.

A female who wants to mate will slap her pectoral fins on the surface and make a trumpeting noise to signal to the males.

Males in the Whitsundays are often in pods of 2 - 4 males.  If they hear a female signaling, they will move very fast in her direction.  Often multiple groups can be seen moving towards her at speed.

Once the males reach the female, they will chase her demonstrating their fitness and endurance, trying to be the fastest, the best singer and the most acrobatic.  Their song lasts 30 minutes, but will repeat it over and over to show their fitness.  They perform large breaches landing on their backs to appear bigger and gain attention.  They will try to outrun the other males.  They can be aggressive to other males below the surface and tail slap on the surface to try to warn the others off.

This is a heat run and can last over 24 hours.

One a female has selected a male they will swim together and move in motions like diving and rolling that resemble a playful courtship.  It’s very gentle and tactile with the male gently caressing the female with his pectoral fins.  It’s still up to the female if she actually mates with the male.

Once pregnant the female will return to the feeding ground to gain body condition.  The male will remain in the breeding ground looking for other mating opportunities.

Whales are now being spotted on most boat tours, ferry trips and mainland vantage points and from balconies on islands like Hamilton Island.

To see photos and videos of recent sightings go to the Whales of the Whitsundays Facebook group.

Contributed by Kellie Leonard - Master Reef Guide/Whales of the Whitsundays

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Photo credit: Glen Bradford

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There is no doubt, the Maori Wrasse (Cheilinus undulatus), is one of the most popular fish on the Great Barrier Reef. And for good reason.

It is renowned for its large size, striking colours and friendly personality. An encounter with a Maori Wrasse will make your day.

Maori Wrasse are so named for their distinct facial markings which resemble those seen on traditional Maori warriors in New Zealand. The males are most easily identified by their large size and large, prominent hump on its forehead.

This hump contains an air and oil combination which acts in part as a flotation device which counteracts the weight of their pronounced jaw.

A male Maori Wrasse can live up to 25 years, grow up to an impressive 2.3m and weigh up to 190kg.

The female Maori Wrasse normally grows to around 1m and can live up to 32 years of age, yet they have a very slow breeding rate as they do not mature until they are around 4 to 6 years old.

The Maori Wrasse are protogynous hermaphrodites: That basically means that most Maori Wrasse start life as a female but transform into a male at a specific point in their lifecycle.

Maori Wrasse have a varied diet of small fish, crustaceans and marine invertebrates. They have a noteworthy set of teeth known as “protractile” teeth, which means they can project outwards to better catch passing prey. The Maori Wrasse have very strong jaws that they use to crush shells, and they have even adopted the method of banging shells on rocks to crack the shells. They are also known for being one of the few predators of the sharp-spined, toxic crown-of-thorns starfish, which helps protect the Reef from this prodigious coral eater.

Due to past hunting pressure, the Maori Wrasse is a fully protected species on the Great Barrier Reef as they are a highly endangered species.

Contributed by Whitsunday Conservation Council.

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Queensland is one of the few places on Earth where the extraordinary platypus can still be spotted in the wild. With its iconic duck-like bill, dense waterproof fur, and venomous spurs on its ankles, this enigmatic mammal is a living relic, one of the most evolutionarily distinct creatures on the planet. Yet, for all its unique adaptations, the platypus is highly vulnerable to environmental changes.

Once widespread across Eastern Australia, populations have been steadily declining, particularly in the Murray-Darling Basin. The catastrophic 2019–2020 bushfires wiped out thousands of animals along the East Coast, leaving rivers choked with ash and debris. These waterways, vital for hunting and shelter, became treacherous for platypus and other aquatic species.

Highly sensitive to their surroundings, platypus require clean rivers and secure burrows along riverbanks to feed, breed, and shelter. Alarmingly, research from the University of New South Wales shows that suitable platypus habitat has decreased by 22 per cent over the past 30 years.

Each decline is a stark reminder of how fragile Australia’s ecosystems are. Protecting waterways, restoring habitats, and raising awareness are vital to ensuring that this evolutionary marvel, continues to thrive in its ancestral home.

Fun Fact: Platypuses are smaller than you might think: males are around 50 cm long and weigh 1.5 kg, while females are usually 40 cm long and 1 kg.

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A wild Platypus in Eungella National Park. Photo Credit: Ruth Puddefoot.

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Where Turtles and Trash Meet Transformation

In the quiet backstreets of Jubilee Pocket, just minutes from the bustle of Airlie Beach, a grassroots movement is working tirelessly to keep the Whitsundays pristine. At Eco Barge HQ, visitors are invited to step inside the world of marine conservation and witness how one community is safeguarding the Great Barrier Reef.

The Eco HQ Experience Tour, held every Tuesday morning, offers more than a window into conservation; it immerses participants in the frontline of environmental action. Over 90 minutes, visitors trace the journey of discarded plastics and marine debris. Inside the Ocean Trash Recycle Shack, individuals are shown how bottles, ropes and fragments of plastic are transformed into new creations, from jewellery to artwork, and you can be at the heart of the action.

The tour also introduces visitors to the Whitsunday Turtle Rescue Centre, where sick and injured turtles are treated before being released back into the wild. While sightings depend on the condition of the patients in care, the story of each turtle offers a stark reminder of the threats facing marine life.

Eco Barge founder Libby Edge says the experience is about connection as much as education.
“What we’re doing at Eco HQ is incredible – from protecting our islands from marine debris to caring for sick and injured turtles. I wanted to open our doors so visitors and locals can see behind the scenes, learn about our programs, and discover just how much difference a community can make.” – Libby Edge, Founder, Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc.

Set against the backdrop of the Great Barrier Reef, Eco HQ is more than an education centre; it is a call to action. By the end of the tour, visitors leave not only with knowledge, but with the understanding that every choice, every bottle, every bag carries weight in the ocean.

Book your tour today by heading to the Eco Barge Clean Sea’s website: https://www.ecobargecleanseas.org.au/tours/

What: Eco Barge Clean Seas Experience Tour

Where: Eco Barge HQ, Boatyard Rd, Jubilee Pocket, QLD

When: Every Tuesday at 10am (1.5 hours)

Price: $30 Adult | $20 Child

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The Mackay region’s ingenuity and resilience were on full display at the 2025 Resource Industry Network (RIN) Awards Gala Dinner, held Friday 22 August at the MECC. The black-tie celebration, hosted by Ed Kavalee and backed by live music from the Luke Miller Band, showcased the best of the mining equipment, technology and services (METS) and resources sector.

Seven awards recognised excellence across safety, culture, community, manufacturing, innovation and inclusion, with standout winners including FMS Group, Richglen, Gardian, IQ Solutions, M&P Services, North Queensland Bulk Ports, and Glencore’s Colin Hoyle.

RIN General Manager Dean Kirkwood praised the sector’s ability to adapt under global and economic pressures, while Chair Tim Magoffin highlighted the region’s role as a leader across industries from mining to renewables.

The night also carried moments of deep emotion, as Gardian Director Luke Phillips dedicated his community award to his late brother Peter, a driving force behind the company’s culture.

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Award winners gathered on stage with Resource Industry Network Chair Tim Magoffin to celebrate excellence across the METS and resources sector. Photo credit: Liz Andrews

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Amber’s fourth birthday was made extra special last week when Mackay Northern Beaches police paid her a surprise visit. The young fan, known for her love of all things police, was thrilled when officers stopped by to celebrate her big day.

During the visit, Amber had the chance to meet the officers, explore the police car, and even sit in the driver’s seat, beaming from ear to ear. The surprise brought smiles, laughter, and unforgettable memories for the birthday girl and her family.

Mackay Police shared their well-wishes for Amber, saying they hoped her birthday would be one she would always remember. The visit highlighted the strong connection between local police and the community, showing how even a small gesture can make a big impact.

For Amber and her family, the day was a perfect blend of fun, excitement, and community spirit – proof that sometimes, the best birthday gifts come with flashing lights and sirens.

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This Sunday we celebrate Father’s Day – a chance to honour the dads and father figures who help shape our lives.

There’s so much weight carried on the shoulders of men. Often, the expectation is to be the breadwinner, yet many step up as incredible caregivers too. From fathers and uncles to grandfathers and mentors, men play a powerful role in raising children, teaching resilience and encouraging courage in everyday life.

I see this balance in my own family. While I hover nervously when our little one takes a risk, my husband is the steady voice saying, “brush it off” and urging him to get back up. That contrast – comfort and courage – is what helps children flourish.

Last year, when I was in the thick of chemotherapy, he played both mum and dad. Because I was cytotoxic, he took on every hands-on role – from baths to nappy changes – all while keeping our family running through my three-weekly chemo cycles. He really is the best dad, and this note is dedicated to him, and to all the father figures who step up with love, patience and strength.

Happy Father’s Day – and here’s one for the dads: Why don’t skeletons ever fight each other? Because they don’t have the guts.

Amanda

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In a bid to ensure the safety of the region’s children, Queensland has drawn a line in the sand against predators, taking a landmark step with the introduction of Daniel’s Law to Parliament — the state’s first public child sex offender register.

Member for Mackay, Nigel Dalton MP, welcomed the landmark reform, saying it will put the rights of victims and families ahead of offenders by giving parents the tools they need to better protect their children.

“Nothing is more important than the safety of our kids,” Mr Dalton said.

“For too long, convicted predators have been able to hide in the shadows. Daniel’s Law will shine a light on repeat offenders and give parents the information they need to make informed decisions for their families.”

The Bill sets out a three-tiered disclosure framework, closely modelled on the proven West Australian system:

Tier 1: A publicly accessible website naming offenders who have failed to meet reporting obligations and whose whereabouts are unknown. Full name, photo and year of birth will be listed.

Tier 2: An online application allowing Queensland residents to view photographs of reportable offenders living in their area.

Tier 3: An application process enabling parents and guardians to confirm if a particular person with unsupervised access to their child is a registered offender.

Reportable offences include grooming a child under 16, indecent treatment of a child, and the production or distribution of child exploitation material.

The law honours Sunshine Coast teenager Daniel Morcombe, who was tragically killed in 2003, and reflects two decades of tireless advocacy by his parents through the Daniel Morcombe Foundation.

Mr Dalton said the reform demonstrates the Crisafulli Government’s commitment to child safety, delivering change within its first 10 months in office.

“Daniel’s Law is one of the most significant child safety reforms in Queensland’s history,” he said.

“This is about transparency, accountability, and protecting children who cannot protect themselves. As a father and as the Member for Mackay, I am proud to support this law.”

Safeguards will also be built into the framework, with new offences introduced to prevent the misuse of information, ensuring the register is used strictly for child protection and not for vigilantism.

Daniel’s Law will be reviewed by a Parliamentary Committee before returning to the House, with the Government committed to making it law before the end of the year.

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Queensland has introduced Daniel’s Law, the state’s first public child sex offender register, in a landmark move to protect children and empower parents with vital information. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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It’s not every day you see police horses patrolling the town with their respected riders from Queensland Police Service. But that’s exactly what Mackay locals experienced this week, when two mounted officers from Brisbane arrived in town after completing patrols in Airlie Beach.

Children reached out to pat the horses, parents snapped photos, and plenty of locals were left starstruck at the sight of Sergeant Ben Bassingthwaighte with police horse Lance, and Constable Debbie Brunschlight with police horse Karma.

“We do all sorts of ceremonial work, like opening big shows with government officials, but the horses are also a strong presence in the community,” Constable Brunschlight said.

“They’re beautiful animals and people love coming up to meet them.”

The mounted officers are affectionately known as “peace-keepers,” using their elevated position in crowds to spot issues before they happen. Just last weekend they were on duty at the Australian March, ensuring community safety and keeping the event calm and family-friendly.

Sergeant Bassingthwaighte said Mackay’s response had been overwhelmingly positive, and crime noticeably quiet.

“It’s great to see how much people enjoy the horses. I think they appreciate the extra police presence, and in a bit of a different way. It’s been very popular,” he said.

“They are a combined one and a half tons of deterrence. Everyone’s been very well-behaved around them, which is part of their attraction, and they encourage good behaviour.”

Speaking about his own pathway into the mounted unit, Bassingthwaighte credited his rural upbringing.

“I grew up on a cattle property when I was younger, then worked in the city for a while. When I decided to join the mounted unit, I had to brush up on my riding skills and pass an assessment to get in.”

The Brisbane-based officers and their horses wrapped up their Mackay patrols on Wednesday, leaving behind plenty of smiles and lasting memories of Queensland Police’s unique four-legged peace-keepers.

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Sergeant Ben Bassingthwaighte with his horse Lance and Constable Debbie Brunschlight with her horse Karma patrolled Mackay, delighting locals and providing a commanding, community-focused presence. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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