In just a couple of short weeks, one of the state’s longest running annual celebrations will return to the streets of the Burdekin Shire for a memorable day of fun, festivities, food and fabulous entertainment!

Just a few hours’ drive North of the Whitsundays, the Burdekin Water Festival will come alive on Saturday the 6th of September to celebrate the township’s abundance of water and rich agricultural sector with a series of events scheduled throughout the afternoon and into the night in the heart of Ayr itself.

The official Queensland Country Bank Grand Parade will line Queen Street from end to end with an array of magnificent floats, machinery, marching bands, and community groups for all to enjoy from 4:30pm onwards. Over the past couple of months, countless local businesses, schools, community groups, and organisations have been hard at work, decorating their floats to bring the magical 2025 theme of “Bon Voyage – Roam the Globe” to life for festival goers to admire from the footpath.

The procession will then be followed by a memorable Mardi Gras overflowing with live entertainment, games, amusement rides, side-show alley favourites, face painting, Melville’s Petting Zoo and a wide variety of market stalls.

2025’s Burdekin Water Festival will also stage the debut of Burdekin Eats, a new international culinary experience inviting attendees to experience a wide array of foods from across the globe! In line with the festival’s travel theme, Queen Street will be filled with tastes, sights, and sounds from countries far and wide to create a wonderful family-friendly atmosphere like never before.

Additional festival favs will also make a return this year including the Tug-O-War Competition, where teams will battle it out for the coveted title of Grand Champion! Winning announcements for the Garden Competition, Window Display Competition, and the drawing of the Major Raffle will also take place during the evening.

At 7pm sharp, all eyes will turn to the Main Stage, where judges and committee members will crown the Winning Junior Ambassadors, bringing the 2025 Ambassador Program to a close and marking a key highlight in the festival calendar.

Building on the success of last year’s iconic come back, the Burdekin Water Festival Committee is hopeful this year’s event will be bigger, better and more brilliant than ever!

To view the full program of events and festival updates, visit the Burdekin Water Festival’s newly launched website, www.burdekinwaterfestival.com.au or check out the event’s social media pages across all platforms to stay in the loop!

What: Burdekin Water Festival
When: Saturday the 6th of September from 4:30pm
Where: Queen Street, Ayr

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Worldly themed floats and endless festival fun awaits at the Burdekin Water Festival this September (Photo Credit: Sharron Bozzetto)

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The Whitsunday Coast Chamber of Commerce brought local businesses together last week for a practical and engaging session on the art of networking, emphasising how the right connections can fuel both personal and professional growth.

The event, hosted by The Whitsunday Coast Chamber of Commerce and Kath Barker of Compass Realty Whitsunday, was built around a simple but powerful idea: networking isn’t just about exchanging business cards it’s about building trusted relationships.

Chamber Liaison Dr Julia Evans highlighted that an effective network can be operational by providing people who help you execute, strategic by surrounding yourself with peers who help you think and aspirational by being with those who inspire you to grow.

Throughout the event, members explored both the features and benefits of networking. On a practical level, networking allows business owners to connect with peers, industry leaders, and potential collaborators, while sharing knowledge, market insights, and best practices. It also provides access to valuable resources, from funding opportunities to support services, and increases visibility within the community. The benefits flow directly back into businesses, creating opportunities for growth, mentorship, and stronger collaboration across the region.

A key takeaway was understanding your reputation and knowing your relevance. To strengthen both reputation and relevance, focus on advocacy by being clear about what you stand for, marketing yourself to communicate your expertise effectively, continually learning and staying visible through education and events, building meaningful networks, and ensuring operations—following through on commitments and taking consistent action.

Many members shared that networking is the key to securing most of their work. By simply talking about what their business offers, they open the door for others to connect them with opportunities because in a small town, people are always willing to help one another.

The session delved into the importance of reputation and relevance, reminding members that how they show up, treat others, and deliver results is what builds trust. Both Julia and Kath shared horror story experiences of networking, and the don’ts for hosting your own networking event.

Attendees were asked to consider the unique strengths they bring to the table, whether it be hard-won skills, results achieved for others, or challenges they have personally overcome. These reflections formed the foundation for participants to craft their own elevator pitches. Concise introductions designed to clearly convey who they are, who they help, the problems they solve, and what makes them different.

To ensure the momentum continues beyond the session, the Chamber encouraged participants to take small but meaningful follow-up actions. Suggestions included sending a personalised video or voice note, arranging coffee catch-ups, swapping email addresses, sharing curated resources, or even hosting mini masterminds. These simple gestures, are what turn initial meetings into lasting professional relationships.

The underlying message of the day was clear, networking is not a one-off event but an ongoing practice. By intentionally building connections, local business owners can position themselves for long-term success while also strengthening the Whitsunday region’s economic fabric.

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Chamber Liaison Dr Julia Evans, Chamber President Allan Milostic, and Kath Barker. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Monday the 18th August through to Friday 22nd August is Queensland Road Safety Week. A week dedicated in Queensland for sending a message for all road users about the choices they make could save a life or take one.

Police across the State are asking road users to pause and reflect on how they drive ride walk or use our roads. Like my previous article road safety is a shared responsibility, whether you are a driver, passenger or pedestrian. One poor decision can lead to life long consequences so this week we are asking everyone to drive smart and stay safe for your family, your mates and every Queenslander.

Queensland Police are committed to reducing the trauma on Queensland roads, but we can’t do that without your help. It’s not just about fatalities. We are seeing a rising number of people left with life changing injuries including spinal damage, traumatic brain injuries and amputations.

This year alone, data from the Motor Accident Insurance Commission (MAIC) shows the number of people left with road crash injuries is increasing, with 3,526 injury claims this year, 262 of those with serious injury, compared to 3,214 the year prior, of which 236 were serious injuries. These are mums, dads, mates and colleagues whose lives and families will never be the same. All it takes is one moment of distraction one wrong judgement or one tired blink and a life can be shattered.

There is no excuse for getting behind the wheel while impaired by alcohol or drugs. Plan ahead so you can get home safely. Nominate a designated driver. Book a rideshare or taxi. Stay overnight if needed. The safest choice is to plan before you drink not after.

Motorcycle riders, pedestrians, cyclists, e-scooter and e-bike users are among our most vulnerable road users. They have less protection than those in vehicles and are more likely to be seriously hurt in a crash. Actively check for these users, especially when changing lanes. Follow the road rules and be alert of your surroundings at all times.

As of the 18th August 2025, 178 lives have been tragically lost on Queensland roads this year. Many of these deaths were the result of speeding or dangerous driving. Every life lost is one too many and these high numbers are why we have increased our presence on the roads. If you don’t want to listen to me, listen to the greatest full back to ever play the game of Rugby League.

In local news Whitsunday Station has been busy of late. We’ve seen an increase in anti-social behaviour down the Main Street of Airlie Beach the last couple of weekends. Mostly between the hours 1am and 3am (the time when most people are making their smartest decisions). Incidents are generally when the licenced venues have closed, and people are waiting for Taxi’s to drive them home. Please can I ask that you be patient with each other. Plan to leave earlier, as I know there is a delay in Taxi services at that time of night. Don’t let your evening be ruined by a trip to the Airlie Beach Hilton with the local Constabulary. But if you do, please leave a positive review.

Contributed with thanks to Contributed with thanks to Senior Sergeant Officer in Charge of Whitsunday Police Station Anthony Moynihan

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At Whitsunday Christian College, the journey to Prep begins with Whitsunday Christian College's Get Ready for Prep Program—play-based mornings that spark curiosity, build early connections, and create a warm first experience of school. Through these sessions, children grow familiar with the school environment, develop early social skills, and become eager to learn.

In Term 4, the focus shifts to Prep Transition—a series of Thursday morning sessions from 9.00 to 10.30am designed especially for enrolled 2026 Prep students. These mornings mark an important step in the transition from informal play to a more structured program. Children explore their future classrooms, become familiar with the layout and resources, and practise daily routines such as carpet time, group rotations, and learning segments, transitioning from one activity to the next.

Through small group activities, students develop independence while strengthening fine motor skills, building phonemic awareness, and growing number sense. They also form friendships, connect with their teachers and teacher aides, and grow in confidence navigating the classroom without direct parent involvement.

The term program concludes with a special Orientation Morning, where each child receives a cuddly Prep teddy to bring on their first day, along with a personalised umbrella for their first rainy season. These treasured keepsakes remind them they are ready to begin their schooling journey with confidence and joy.

Come and discover the difference—where we thrive as a community in a nurturing and connected environment, giving your child the confident start they deserve.

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Bowen is well represented at the annual Queensland Information Centre’s Association (QICA) conference being held in the Moreton Bay region this week.

Three Bowen Tourism and Business team members are at the conference at Sandstone Point, networking with other information centre staff, exchanging ideas and learning about industry trends.

The annual conference is held at a different location each year and was hosted by Bowen in 2019.
Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said there were about 100 accredited Visitor Information Centres in Queensland.

“The annual conference is always a great networking opportunity, and we always come home with new ideas that we can implement," she said.

This week’s program has included study tours and guest speakers from many stakeholders including the Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC), Tourism and Events Queensland, Caravanning Queensland and Drive Queensland.

Bowen Visitor Information Centre welcomed a record number of visitors in the past financial year and has started the new financial year very strongly with another record month in July.

“As our number continue to increase, we like to be up to date with industry trends and visitor expectations,” Leanne said.

“We know the importance of the drive market to our regional economy and the annual conference is a way to connect with other stakeholders so we can continue to improve our services.”

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Bowen Tourism and Business team members – Cindy Tonks, Leanne Abernethy, and Glenn Womal. Photo supplied

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A Minute With The Mayor

This week marked an important milestone for our region, as Whitsunday Regional Council signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with James Cook University (JCU). While nothing will change overnight, this partnership is about building the foundations for new opportunities for our young people, our workforce, and our community in the years ahead.

For many in the Whitsundays, pursuing higher education has meant leaving home or missing out altogether. This agreement signals a commitment by Council and JCU to work together over time to improve access to education, support local students, and explore new ways of connecting university opportunities with regional communities like ours.

The MOU sets out a framework for collaboration in areas such as student placements within Council, workforce development, professional training, and research partnerships. These initiatives won’t happen all at once – they will take planning, resources and further discussions – but the agreement ensures we now have a pathway to explore them.

In practice, this could eventually mean things like students gaining experience with our planning or environmental teams, or research projects that look at local issues like coastal resilience or sustainable tourism. It could also mean professional development opportunities for Council staff and pilot programs that link our schools more closely with a world-class university.

What’s important to note is that this is a long-term partnership. The signing of the MOU doesn’t deliver immediate change, but it does position the Whitsundays as a smarter, more connected region. By aligning our local knowledge with JCU’s expertise, we’ll be in a stronger position to advocate for investment, attract innovation, and support opportunities for our community.

I want to thank Vice Chancellor Professor Simon Biggs and his team for their commitment to working with us. Together, we are laying the groundwork for a future where higher education, local government, and community aspirations move forward hand in hand.

The Whitsundays has always been known for its natural beauty. Through partnerships like this, we are steadily working towards a future where it is also known for opportunity, innovation, and learning.

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The Whitsundays will host the 2032 Olympic Sailing, and with planning already underway, with detailed master plans in motion future precincts and modern infrastructure will serve the community well beyond the Games.

“Being selected for the Olympics is a launch pad for something bigger,” Mayor Collins stated.

“We’re not just preparing for 2032 – we’re building for the decades to come.”

“The Whitsundays has the passion, the capability, the track record and the picture perfect backdrop.”

Mayor Collins said It’s about investing in upgraded infrastructure that supports growth, building stronger communities that thrive together, and creating improved public spaces where people can connect and enjoy their surroundings. At its core, these changes are designed to deliver a long-term economic impact, ensuring sustainability and prosperity for generations to come.

The Whitsundays already welcomes over a million visitors, with thousands more arriving daily when cruise ships dock. On any given night, more than 10,000 visitors are accommodated across local venues and tourism providers.

The area also has a proven track record of hosting major events year after year, whether on land or at sea, showcasing its ability to deliver world-class experiences on every front.

The Whitsundays is ready to deliver the Olympic Games in world-class, authentic and unforgettable style.

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The Whitsunday waters will be buzzing with olympians in 2032. Stock image

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Did you know?

Whitsunday Regional Libraries have recently launched the Social Seniors Whitsunday project, which aims to reduce social isolation amongst older members of our community. As part of the project, ‘Coffee and Chat’ sessions are hosted once a month at Cannonvale and Bowen Library, and once a fortnight at Proserpine Library. These sessions are all about mingling, getting to know one another and coming together to plan for future project events and activities.

For more information, talk to your local Library or head to Whitsunday Regional Libraries website.

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The Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon's 25th anniversary was a huge success over the weekend. The event attracted many pro athletes, some of which experienced their first time visiting Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays.

The weekend started on Friday evening with a VIP Meet and Greet emceed by Pete Murray. All pro-athletes on the panel talked about their triathlon experience to date and said it was an absolute honour to be racing in Airlie Beach.

On Saturday the kids triathlon was a show stopping event bringing in a huge crowd of supporting parents

Meanwhile, the overall Men’s Winner Josh Ferris said he loves that the event is community led.

"It's a real intimate feeling to be involved in, and I think you don't get anything like that elsewhere," expressed Josh.

“We're lucky enough we get to do it as a profession, but to also have that one on one relationship with the event organisers, with everyone involved, to make the event happen, it's awesome.

"There are not many sports in the world where the novices and age groupers get to compete on the same course as the pros and vice versa.

"I think that's where the camaraderie comes from, we all realise we're in the exact same boat. We are  all doing the exact same course. No one's any different to anyone else. We're all equal and I think that's part of the reason why triathlon is so amazing."

Women's Winner Tara Sosinski won by over nine minutes and said it was an honour to participate in the event celebrating it's 25th year.

"It's a testament to the race organisers and everyone involved that it has been going on for 25 years, and that each year it keeps growing. I'm really fortunate to be a part of such a great event," she said.

"A lot of my friends have already asked what dates are for next year and we're all mapping it into our race calendars for 2026."

Organisers Michael and Val Kimpton were thrilled with this years' event and thanked all of their 60 local sponsors.

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Buying a house? Bring snacks. And a lawyer.

Buying or selling property should be exciting, not confusing.

At Whitsunday Law, we handle conveyancing from contract to keys, keeping things clear, timely, and legally sound. We’ll explain your rights, flag any issues, and make sure you know exactly what you're signing.

We work closely with local agents and lenders, so the whole process runs more smoothly (and with fewer panicked phone calls).

Whitsunday Law – Local knowledge. Legal know-how. Straight answers.

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Jackie Bluck

Jackie Bluck graduated from Central
Queensland University with a
Bachelor of Business (Accounting)
in 1991, followed by a Certified
Practising Accounting (CPA) qualification.
Jackie’s vast experience
as an Accountant and Commercial
Manager covers many industries
including, Commercial & Retail
and Local Council.

Chloe McLean

Chloe McLean joined our team in 2019
from school. Chloe has successfully completed
a Bachelor of Business majoring
in Accounting through the University
of Southern Queensland, whilst working
for Accountancy Plus Whitsunday
(APW) as an undergraduate. Chloe is
now working her way through the Certified
Practising Accountant (CPA) qualification,
drawing on the experience of
her many mentors in the firm.

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Covering Airlie Beach, Cannonvale, Proserpine, Bowen, and the Whitsunday Islands, Porters Mitre 10 Whitsunday has been the go-to destination for building and home improvement needs since 2002. As part of the long-established Porters Group — proudly serving the local community since 1883 — the Whitsunday store continues the tradition of combining trusted service with quality products for both tradies and DIY enthusiasts.

From hardware and tools to building materials, outdoor living, and now a specialist paint store, Porters Mitre 10 Whitsunday is a true one-stop shop for the region. A major milestone in 2024 was the opening of Inspirations Paint Cannonvale, enhancing their paint and colour services with expert advice and premium brands, conveniently located within the Mitre 10 store.

As a locally owned business servicing the building and retail sector, Porters is responding to industry trends by expanding its range of sustainable building materials and energy-efficient products. Their edge lies in personalised service, knowledgeable staff, and a strong focus on supporting local trade professionals.

Like many businesses, Porters Mitre 10 Whitsunday has faced supply chain and workforce challenges over the past year. Their response? Diversifying suppliers, strengthening local inventory, and investing in continuous team development.

Being a Chamber member helps the team stay connected with the broader business community, access valuable networking opportunities, and keep pace with regional developments — all while reinforcing their commitment to giving back locally.

Come on down! The Whitsundays Chamber is partnering with Porters Mitre 10, StarFM, and McMoon Coffee for Pop Up Chamber, 9am-11am Friday 12 September. Come on down for a free coffee, brekky, prizes, and networking with the business community. No need to register.

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Let’s be honest – the hardest leadership jump isn’t taking on a new team. It’s leading the one you used to be a part of. Moving from team-mate to team-leader sounds simple — you already know the people, the work, and how things get done. But in reality, it’s one of the hardest leadership transitions you’ll ever make.

Doing to Leading: The biggest shift is moving from ‘doing’ to ‘leading’. What you were good at before isn’t what is needed in a leadership role. You now need to set your team up for success before you concentrate on your own day. Before, you measured your success by your own results. Now, your success is in helping others perform at their best. That means stepping back from the “doing” and focusing on the “leading.”

Identity. Yesterday you were part of the crew — sharing the banter - today, you’re the one making decisions, setting priorities, and holding people accountable. That’s a big change for you, and an even bigger change for them.

Relationships: Friendships and past dynamics can make it awkward. What once felt natural can now look like favouritism. Some new managers swing too far — becoming overly strict to prove they’re fair — while others avoid tough calls to keep the peace. Both approaches can backfire.

Expectations: Be clear with expectations – what are you expecting of your team-mates, and ask for feedback. What do they expect, or need, from you in this role?
The sweet spot? Be clear, fair, and consistent, while staying approachable and human. Your team needs to see that you’re still you, but you’ve got their back – even when the decisions are tough.

Yes, it’s hard. But it’s also one of the most rewarding leadership steps you’ll take.

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It’s time to kick start your engines and strap in for a wild weekend to remember as the infamous Don River Dash roars into the Whitsundays for another year this September!

Set to be held from Friday the 5th until Sunday the 7th of September, the annual weekend of high-octane action and spectacular speed demon racing will soon mark it’s seventh year in the region and the community is bursting with excitement and anticipation.

Since its 2019 debut with juts 40 bikes and 30 cars, the daring Don River Dash has grown exponentially into one of North Queensland’s premier off-road racing events. 2024’s race attracted well over 230 bikes, 89 cars, and captivated crowds exceeding 5,000 people, further delivering an estimated $7 million in direct economic benefits to Bowen, Collinsville, and the greater Whitsunday Shire. Competitors and spectators alike travel from across the state and beyond each year to fill motels, cafes, pubs and more to explore the region’s many attractions, and this year, Don River Dash organisers hope the event will attract more visitors than ever before.

A unique course unlike other off-road races in Australia, the Don River Dash sees competitors tackle a challenging 50-kilometre loop along the dry Don River bed; 25 kilometres upstream on the southern bank before navigating their way back along the northern side. Sand, rocks, jumps, and unpredictable terrain test even the most experienced drivers and riders and the course is completed three times on both Saturday and Sunday, totalling 300 gruelling kilometres. With the riverbed changing each year, and occasional rainfall adding wet surprises, no two races are ever the same.

The Don River Dash has been recognised as one of the best off-road races on the East Coast, drawing trophy trucks, buggies, and modified racers alongside hundreds of bike riders. Behind the scenes, around 200 volunteers work tirelessly on every aspect of the event, from track construction and recovery to logistics and safety. Their dedication has helped cement the Dash as a hallmark event for the Whitsundays, showcasing not just the region’s spectacular inland landscapes but also its warm hospitality and community spirit.

The 2025 edition promises to be the biggest yet. With competitors from across the country already signalling their intent to take part, the question on everyone’s mind is who will be crowned King or Queen of the River. Past champions, including multiple-time winner Liam Walsh, have set a high bar, but the ever-changing course means anything can happen over two intense days of racing.

Mark your calendar for the 5th to the 7th of September and get ready to experience the dust, the speed, and the energy of the Don River Dash!

WHAT: Don River Dash
WHEN: 5-7 September

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The Don River Dash will roar into the Whitsundays from the 5th to the 7th of September (Photo Supplied)

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The dangers that drivers face on the Bruce Highway north and south of Bowen are well known to locals, but Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, has shared a personal story to highlight a key safety factor during Road Safety Week.
As a former Police Officer, Mr Last has seen more than his share of incidents first-hand but there is one that is burnt into his memory.

“Late at night on May 15th 1998, my partner and I came across a car that had rolled,” he said. “The wheels of the car were still spinning when we stopped and inside Raymond, the sole occupant, was trapped with the seat belt across his neck, restricting his breathing.”

“Fortunately, we were able to save Raymond’s life, but he was left with a permanent brain injury and years of intensive rehabilitation. Raymond spent years helping to educate young drivers through the Rotary Youth Driver Awareness, or RYDA, programs, with a special focus on driving with the right attitude.”

“Road conditions are an important part of road safety and that’s the reason why the government’s $9 Billion Bruce Highway Safety Package is so important. But driver behaviour is the largest contributor to incidents that took 302 lives last year and left thousands more with lifelong injuries.”

“The fact is that the Fatal Five behaviours of speeding, distraction, drink and drug driving, incorrect seatbelt use, and fatigue are involved in almost all serious and fatal crashes.”

“Roughly 30% of the people killed on our roads are aged 16 to 24. That is a staggering statistic, but the fact is that parents and caregivers are well placed to make a massive difference when it comes to reducing the road toll.”

“Young drivers especially need to understand that a split-second decision can not only take lives, but it can take away their dreams. As the people who are teaching younger people to drive, or supervising them as they practice, we need to focus on ensuring those young people understand the importance of taking the right attitude to driving.”

Mr Last said that driving down the road toll would take a joint effort and welcomed the government’s ‘One Team Queensland’ initiative.

“Regardless of the sport, Queenslanders are passionate and loyal supporters,” he said. “In order the end the carnage on our roads, we all need to be on the same team and we all need to play our part.”

“The Crisafulli state government’s investment into road safety, and securing increased funding from the federal government, proves we are playing our part, but we need Queenslanders to join the fight. We stand by our footy team through good times and bad and we need to stand by our fellow road users to save lives.”

“Similarly to Raymond, State of Origin legend Billy Slater is calling on drivers to drive with the right attitude, to show some patience and to have respect for other road users. The direct result of people taking that advice would be a drastic reduction in fatalities and less people like Raymond living with lifelong injuries.”

Contributed with thanks to Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP

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