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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Local business leaders came together this week to celebrate the launch of the Whitsunday Business Awards 2025.
Sponsors and business champions joined the Whitsunday Regional Council, Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Bowen Chamber of Commerce to officially kick off this year’s awards season.
The event will shine a spotlight on the incredible achievements, innovation, and resilience of businesses and business leaders right across the Whitsundays.
Nominations are now open, with the excitement building for the big Sundowner Awards Ceremony coming this November.
Whitsunday Regional Council is proud to announce its partnership with the Whitsunday and Bowen Chambers of Commerce to co-present the 2025 Whitsunday Business Awards – a celebration of innovation, leadership and community spirit across our business sector.
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said this year marks a new chapter in supporting local enterprise.
“We’re proud to be strengthening our partnership with our local chambers to recognise and celebrate the people behind our thriving businesses,” Mayor Collins said.
“Whitsunday businesses are the backbone of our economy. They create jobs, attract visitors, support community initiatives and shape our region’s future.
"These awards give us a chance to applaud the hard work, resilience and passion that comes with running a business.”
The 2025 awards feature 10 diverse categories, including Small Business Hero, Customer Service Champion, Eco Excellence, and Trailblazing Young Entrepreneur. These awards acknowledge businesses of all sizes and stages, from rising stars and young innovators to long-standing community champions and industry leaders.
Jo Shepherd, President of the Bowen Chamber of Commerce, said, “Whitsunday Business Awards are more than just recognition – they are a celebration of resilience, innovation, and community spirit."
“They offer our region a unique window into the journeys behind local success stories, shining a light on the determination, challenges, and growth that help shape our business community."
Alan Milostic, Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry President, said the “These Business Awards are an opportunity to recognise the businesses and individuals going above and beyond. We know that when we celebrate our businesses, we inspire others to grow, create jobs, and build a stronger regional economy for everyone.”
Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine has come on board as the Award’s Principal Partner, highlighting its commitment to building stronger communities through business support.
Mark Henry, Chair of Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine, said, “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.”
The highlight of the awards season will be the prestigious Sundowner Awards Ceremony in November, where finalists and winners will gather with hundreds of regional leaders to celebrate excellence in business.
All local businesses, including not-for-profits, are encouraged to nominate themselves or others who have demonstrated exceptional performance, leadership, or contribution to the Whitsunday economy and community.
Mayor Collins said he encourages every business, big or small, to consider applying.
The awards have officially launched with applications closing Sunday 7 September at 11:59pm. For award guides, category details and to apply visit: https://bit.ly/whitsundayba
Dr Julia Evans (Whitsundays Chamber), Brendon Nothard (Canegrowers Proserpine), Amanda Anderson (Bendigo Community Bank), Asher Telford (SeaLink), Jo Shepherd (President, Bowen Chamber of Commerce), Emma Murphy (nbn Co) and Anthony Nobilia (Airlie Beach Executive Services) Front row: Mark Henry (Bendigo Community Bank), Julia Wheway (TAFE Queensland), Mayor Ry Collins, Jannah Baker (Scallywag Fabrications) and Allan Milostic (President, Whitsundays Chamber). Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
Jo Shepherd (President, Bowen Chamber of Commerce), Mayor Ry Colins, and Allan Milostic (President, Whitsundays Chamber). Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
Hello everyone.
I hope you all had a wonderful week.
Last weekend, I had the joy of covering one of the brightest highlights on our calendar - the Great Barrier Reef Festival. It all began on Friday evening with a truly memorable experience aboard the Camira, camera in hand and raincoat at the ready. Even with heavy rain draping the horizon, the fireworks lit up the sky in spectacular fashion. I also got to meet some great people on board and share some really nice conversations.
Saturday was a feast for the senses, with the main street closed to traffic for the Revvin’ the Reef event and the Street Parade. Strolling down the centre of town felt almost nostalgic, it transported me back to my Adelaide hometown during Fringe season, when the streets buzz, the air is warm, and the whole community comes alive to celebrate.
Sunday delivered another gem, the Recyclable Regatta. Having missed it last year, I can now see exactly why it’s such a crowd favourite. From the creative watercraft to the laughter of spectators, it was pure fun from start to finish.
Right now, it feels like the Whitsundays is in full swing, with one incredible event rolling into the next. This weekend, it’s Airlie Beach Race Week, and I’m counting down the days until I’m out on the media boat, lens trained on the sails, capturing yet another slice of paradise in motion.
Quote of the Week
"Sometimes you are aware when your great moments are happening, and sometimes they rise from the past. Perhaps it's the same with people." - James Salter, Burning the Days
A major review of water planning is underway in the Whitsundays, with the Queensland Government launching public consultation to help shape a new regional water plan.
The review aims to strengthen water security across the region by incorporating updated science and regional feedback, particularly from the Don, northern Proserpine and southern O’Connell basins—areas not currently covered by an existing plan.
The Whitsunday water plan will address climate resilience, cultural values, regional growth, and unallocated water, ensuring it meets the future needs of agriculture, industry and communities.
The updated plan will align with broader regional efforts such as the Burdekin Regional Water Assessment, which supports long-term water security and economic development across North Queensland.
Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm emphasised the importance of local engagement and strong planning for the region’s future.
“Water is the lifeblood of our region’s agricultural sector and getting this plan right means we will give our growers the confidence they need to invest and grow,” Ms Camm said.
“Public input is essential to getting this right and we want to hear from local communities, industry and cane growers about how water is used, what’s working, and what could be improved.”
Minister for Local Government and Water Ann Leahy said the Government was delivering on a key election promise by reviewing outdated water plans and expanding coverage across the Whitsundays.
“Labor left billions of litres of water tied up in bureaucracy, but the Crisafulli Government knows how important it is to unlock water to drive economic growth, more jobs, or stronger regional communities,” Minister Leahy said.
“Our Government knows the importance of water security across the Whitsunday region, and this is one of the steps we are taking to help deliver it long term.
“The proposal includes expanding the current plan area to create a new water plan, which would bring three coastal basins into Queensland’s water-planning framework for the first time.”
This review is part of the State’s wider Watertight initiative, which includes seven new or upgraded weirs and the overhaul of 23 existing water plans.
The goal is clear: deliver long-term water security to regions like the Whitsundays that are ready for growth.
An afternoon of kayaking near Whitsunday Island took a serious and unexpected turn on Monday 4 August, when a woman began suffering from severe chest pain, prompting an urgent call to BMA CQ Rescue.
The rescue helicopter was tasked just before 2.30pm and launched immediately to the woman’s last known location. The mission required precise coordination as time was critical and the woman’s location was remote.
Upon arrival, the rescue crew faced an additional challenge. The area was surrounded by dense bushland and had very limited beach frontage, making it impossible for the helicopter to land. With no safe place to set down, the crew resorted to a winch rescue.
While the aircraft hovered above, a highly trained medical team was winched down through the trees to reach the patient on the ground.
With the helicopter hovering above, the medical team was able to treat the woman on the scene. Once they stabilised the woman, the patient and crew were winched back up to the BMA CQ Rescue Helicopter.
BMA CQ Rescue General Manager Lisa Martin said, “Missions like this are tough on the
crew and the medical team, but this is what they train for. Our patients are our first
priority, so if we have to winch to get to them, we will.”
She was taken to Mackay in a stable condition.
The Bowen Volunteer Marine Rescue (VMR) has officially changed their names to the Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) Bowen after their celebration last weekend.
The event saw around 40 people in attendance, including Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP and the Chief Officer of the Queensland Police Water Unit. All crew members were issued citations recognising their role as part of the inaugural MRQ Bowen team.
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP said the now MRQ Bowen has been helping keep people safe on our waters, attending to call-outs from breakdowns, to supplying fuel, to grounded vessels to search and rescues for the last 60 years.
“Congratulations to all members and volunteers, and a massive thank you, for everything you do for our community and keeping our boaties safe,” he added.
Most rescues for MRQ Bowen involve breakdowns at sea, often in remote locations. The team navigates reefs carefully. The team recently completed a job towing a 40-tonne boat.
MRQ Bowen cover the stretch of coastline from George Point to Cape Upstart, MRQ Bowen performs a wide variety of rescues from mechanical breakdowns and medical evacuations to search-and-rescue missions and even spaceport support.
Unit Commander Gary Howes said they are always seeking more volunteers and uniform and full nationally recognised training, both free of charge.
For those interested, more information is available on the MRQ Bowen Facebook page.
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Wilcox MP and the MRQ Bowen crew. Photo sourced: Facebook
A huge congratulations and thank you to the Reef Festival committee and volunteers – the event creates a great vibe and family friendly atmosphere in Airlie Beach that 1000’s of people enjoyed.
Fantastic fireworks, stunning cars and parade in the main street created something special for the region – bigger and better than ever. Well done!
Have Your Say on the Airlie Beach Masterplan
Whitsunday Regional Council has released the draft Airlie Beach Masterplan, outlining a long-term vision for the precinct with proposed upgrades to public spaces, infrastructure, and catalyst projects in the lead-up to the 2032 Olympics.
The draft responds to earlier community feedback and aims to enhance pedestrian comfort, shade, parking, market and event infrastructure, foreshore activation, and the amenity of Airlie Creek.
Local businesses will play a vital role in shaping and ultimately benefiting from these plans. Your input matters.
From the feedback the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry has already received, there’s strong support for completing the Airlie Hill lookout and improving pedestrian links, alongside calls for practical parking solutions, a more central transport hub, improved taxi/ride share ranks, better accessibility for people with mobility challenges, and stronger safety measures for the night-time economy. Businesses have also highlighted the need for upgraded cruise ship facilities and shaded rest areas.
The Chamber will soon be seeking further member feedback to inform a unified submission on behalf of the Whitsundays business community.
We encourage all the community to review the draft and contribute to the consultation before Monday 17 August. Together, we can ensure the Masterplan delivers long-term benefits for businesses, residents, and visitors as we build toward a vibrant future for Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays.
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A Mighty Lift-Off for Bowen and Australia’s Space Future
Last week, history was made in Bowen, and I couldn’t be prouder of what it means for our Whitsunday region and for Australia.
Gilmour Space Technologies successfully launched its Eris rocket from the Bowen Orbital Spaceport and while the mission ended shortly after take-off, make no mistake: this was a major milestone.
Getting that rocket off the ground was no small feat as it was Australia’s first attempt at an orbital launch in more than 50 years, and the very first from an Australian-designed and built rocket.
There’s been plenty of commentary since the launch with some of it supportive, some of it unfair. But as someone who has backed Gilmour Space from day one, let me be clear: this wasn’t a failure, it was a foundational success.
Every major advancement in space technology, from NASA to SpaceX, has been built on trial, error, and relentless perseverance. What Gilmour achieved is proof that world-class space innovation is happening right here in the Whitsundays.
This is about much more than a single rocket flight. It’s about laying the groundwork for a commercial space industry that could create jobs, attract investment, and put Bowen and the Whitsunday region on the map in a whole new way.
It’s about showing our young people, especially those growing up in country Queensland, that they don’t have to leave the regional areas to chase a career in advanced science, engineering, or aerospace. The opportunities are launching right here.
James, Adam, Michelle and the entire team at Gilmour Space have shown incredible grit, vision and courage in getting to this point.
Lifting off from the red dirt of Bowen was a symbolic and significant moment for all of us. It proves that the future of Australian space exploration doesn’t belong to the big cities alone but belongs to regional communities like ours that dare to dream big.
Let’s be the kind of region that gets behind bold ideas and backs pioneers who are doing what’s never been done before.
Because this is only the beginning and I, for one, can’t wait to see what comes next.
Did you know?
Whitsunday Regional Council was proud to be a major sponsor for the Great Barrier Reef Festival last weekend, through our Community Sponsorship program.
Council provides support for residents and regional organisations through a range of grants and support packages such as Community Assistance Grants, Junior Athlete Financial Support and the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF).
Residents can find out more information on the above programs by visiting the Grants and Community Assistance page on our website. Here, residents are also able to access Grant Finder, a free search tool for grants and funding available through the Queensland Government.
For more information, contact our events team at events@wrc.qld.gov.au
Another week has passed with another terrible tragedy on our roads. From the outset of this article, I want to pass on my deepest condolences to the all the family of our most recent victim of road trauma in this District.
I also want to thank the exceptional work undertaken by our Whitsunday Emergency Services. The Police, the Ambulance, the Fire Department and every community member who stopped to help last Monday at the accident on Shute Harbour Road.
Everybody has a part to play in the safety of us on our roads. The council and state governments play a part in the preparations and planning of the roads that we use. They work in conjunction with the Department of Transport and Main Roads along with other stakeholders to set appropriate speed limits. It's then left to the Queensland Police to make sure road users abide by these limits. And we do that really well here in the Mackay Whitsunday District. This year alone we have completed 127,345 RBT’s. In that we have recorded a staggering 2,329 positive returns. There have also been a total 3,139 tickets issued this year.
Lastly, there is the responsibility of you, the drivers and road users. You have a responsibility to be safe. You have a responsibility to make a decision to not drink and drive. To not speed. To drive a vehicle that is mechanically sound and road worthy.
I ask from the bottom of my heart to please consider the families and loved ones of people left behind if you do decide to take a risk. Please stop and consider the responsibility you have a road user. Consider the consequences of your actions if the worst was to occur.
Driving is a privilege, not a right. I would hate to have one of my officers, knocking on your door, delivering the worst of news. Please be safe out there.
Contributed with thanks to Anthony Moynihan Senior Sergeant, Officer in Charge of Whitsunday Police Station
Barefoot Medicine Whitsundays in Cannonvale welcomed a new GP on Monday, an experienced doctor with 21 years in the field and a strong passion for community care.
Originally from Melbourne, Dr Jane Habib has worked mostly in rural areas across New South Wales and Queensland. Before studying medicine, she raised her children, completed a naturopathy degree, and then returned to university.
“I became more interested in looking after people and the health sector.
I did a naturopathy degree, and then I felt like I didn't know enough or have enough control over what you could do. So that's why I went on and did medicine,” she said.
Now, as a GP, she focuses on a wide range of care.
“I particularly see a lot of women but I also do a lot of mental health, children, aged care, preventative medicine, health checks, all the useful GP things,” said Jane.
She says what she loves most is connecting with her patients and getting to know people and their families. Additionally, she enjoys the long term care you get from being a GP.
A firm believer in working collaboratively with her patients, Jane finds that partnering with her patients through a shared decision-making model leads to the best outcomes.
"I don't tell the patient, this is what you have to do," Jane said.
"We discuss the options, and the patient can think about things and decide what they want to do, and then we work out what's best for them."
Having raised children and now grandchildren, she brings real-life experience to her practice, which has made her the GP she is today.
Jane Habib GP at Barefoot Medicine Whitsunday. Photo supplied
There’s always something happening here in The Whitsundays and our fantastic local tourism operators have some exciting updates and fresh experiences to share.
Explore Group is now offering half-day dive trips from Hamilton Island. As a PADI 5-Star provider, it’s a great option if you’re short on time but keen to check out the colourful fringing reef.
Heart of Reef Car Rentals has teamed up with Boaty’s for a great deal. Book a car for 3 days or more and you’ll score a free brekky voucher worth up to $100.
Over on Daydream Island, Pioneer Adventures is now running water sports directly from the island. Jet ski tours and boat hire are now easier than ever for guests staying there.
Portland Roads has officially become Carbon Positive, offsetting five times more CO₂ than required. They’ve also partnered with Jesse Martin OAM to launch the LIONHEART sailing experience — all about big adventures and even bigger inspiration.
At Waterview Airlie Beach, the gardens are getting a refresh, with new designs and plantings making the space even more welcoming.
Wings Sailing Charters is now offering a BYO sunset sail from Airlie Beach, perfect for a relaxed evening out on the water.
And finally, Hamilton Island has just launched its biggest brand campaign in nearly a decade, A Little Island Can Do Wonders, inviting more Aussies to discover everything the island has to offer.
With so much going on close to home, now’s the perfect time to explore our own patch of paradise.
Contributed with thanks to Rosanagh Gallivan, PR & Social Media Manager, Tourism Whitsundays
Hamilton Island has recently launched their biggest brand campaign. Stock image
Women across the region are being encouraged to take the next step in their leadership journey, with partial scholarships now available through Women & Leadership Australia.
With up to $5,000 on offer per person, the scholarships aim to empower more women to build their leadership skills, expand their workplace impact, and take on greater responsibilities—regardless of career stage.
Women & Leadership Australia’s programs are designed for flexibility, allowing participants to engage in part-time study that blends cutting-edge theory with practical application.
There are four programs available, each tailored to different levels of experience:
Graduates are seeing real results with 9 in 10 gaining the confidence to step into senior leadership, more than 90% improving their ability to lead change, and 80% reporting positive career progression.
Applications close Friday, the 22nd of August and to learn more and register, visit www.wla.edu.au/industry/register.
Proserpine Veterinary Surgery is marking a major milestone, 50 years of continuous service to the Whitsundays.
Dr Faye McPherson, who joined the practice in 2003, says the longevity is a testament to community support and the clinic’s commitment to care.
“I’ve seen businesses celebrate 15 years, but 50 years? That’s really worth celebrating,” she said.
Originally partnering with Dr Bill Bowman, Faye then has been dedicated to building and growing the clinic ever since.
Over two decades, Faye has grown the clinic significantly, driven partly by personal circumstances. Her daughter Karli was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis as a newborn, requiring unpredictable and lengthy hospital stays and a supportive team at the Vet Surgery.
With a strong team of vets including an equine specialist due in August, Faye says the future is bright.
"We’re excited to offer a more extensive equine clinic in August with the arrival of a new member of the vet team," said Faye.
“Having a strong team means we can offer a full range of services and keep supporting the community, whether it’s family pets or farm animals.”
Faye also said their newest vet Dr Nicole Frolich is highly qualified with eight years of experience in eterinary critical care and emergency work. Faye said Nicole will play an important role in Proserpine Vet Surgery's future and that they are both excited to look forward to the next 50 years of serving this beautiful region.
Passionate about giving back, the clinic sponsors junior sport, golf, rodeos, and local events.
After 50 years, Proserpine Vet Surgery remains a vital part of the Whitsunday community.
Dr Faye McPherson from Proserpine Vet Surgery. Photo credit: R Jean Photography
Volunteers of the St. Paul’s Op Shop are calling for people of the community to stop donating unsellable mattresses and furniture at the church’s furniture shed.
The Op Shop, run exclusively by volunteers, uses the profits from the store to fund the St Paul's Anglican Church. However volunteer at the store, Chris Hinschen, believes that rising costs at the dump has led people to leave mattresses at the Op Shop’s furniture shed as a donation, but they do not accept mattresses.
The furniture shed, located directly behind St Paul’s Anglican Church, is unmanned — making it easy for the drop-offs.
The volunteer led op shop does not have the funds to take these mattresses to the dump and they are stuck.
“We’re just a little community op shop,” Chris explained. “
“We don’t pay anyone, and that’s how we survive. We’re all volunteers, and we can’t sustain this.”
The hygiene risk of second-hand mattresses means they cannot be resold.
Some furniture donations have also been too large or too damaged to sell. “We had a lounge that dogs had slept in. We just can’t use that.”
The op shop is asking for only clean, saleable furniture and typical household donations like clothing.
“I am just appealing to people, please don't dump this, because our only recourse will be to close down, ” said Chris.
St. Paul’s Op Shop cannot except mattresses or dirty furniture. Photo supplied
Each August, Loneliness Awareness Week stands as a reminder of just how essential human connection is to the overall wellbeing of communities accross Australia. This year’s theme, ‘Moments Matter’, is one that truly resonates with the team at Selectability's Bowen Clubhouse, where simple, everyday interactions are making a big difference in the lives of locals.
Whether it’s sharing a meal, creating a craft project, or just enjoying a cuppa and a chat, Clubhouse members are forming bonds and tackling the devastating effects of social isolation.
With studies revealing that one in six Australians experience severe loneliness, which can impact physical health as much as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, Selectability’s recovery-focused Clubhouse program is proving to be a lifeline for many.
Regional Coordinator Jenelle Maher said the Bowen team works closely with participants to ensure activities are relevant and engaging.
“We switch up our activities quite often to ensure there’s something for everyone,” said Jenelle.
“Moments Matter being this year’s theme for Loneliness Awareness Week, resonates with the Clubhouse, as our activities empower our members to create positive social interactions.”
From BBQs at Horseshoe Bay to creative days at the Clubhouse, these simple moments are helping locals build confidence, connection, and community.
The Clubhouse is open to anyone over 18 seeking to improve their mental wellbeing.
Find the latest activity timetable at selectability.com.au or drop by and meet the team at 38 Herbert Street. NDIS and non-NDIS funding options are available.
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