I recently had the opportunity to meet in Brisbane with Queensland’s new Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Brent Mickelberg MP, during a busy week in Parliament. I’m grateful he was able to make time to sit down with me to discuss several key infrastructure priorities for the Whitsundays.

We spoke at length about the long-overdue upgrades to Shute Harbour Road, including the $24 million Hamilton Plains flood immunity project and the $79 million Paluma to Tropic Road upgrade. I’m pleased to report that Hamilton Plains is expected to commence in the new financial year, with the remaining works to follow soon after.

The Bruce Highway was another major focus of our discussion. The Minister confirmed the $450 million upgrade to Goorganga Plains remains a priority for the new government—and importantly, it forms part of their planning in the lead-up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games.

I also highlighted the potential for the new Country Roads Connect program to support upgrades to key unsealed and missing link roads—particularly the Bowen Developmental Road and Suttor Developmental Road, which are vital to our rural communities and resource industries.

Another issue I raised on behalf of our community was the need for improved disaster resilience, including publicly accessible flood cameras along the Bruce Highway. The Minister was receptive, and we’ll be following up on opportunities to deliver this important safety measure.

Finally, we discussed the importance of forward planning to keep up with our rapidly growing population, ensuring our road and public transport infrastructure doesn’t continue to lag behind. I also took the chance to raise the need for stronger collaboration to unlock the economic potential of Bowen Harbour.

It’s refreshing to see a Minister genuinely willing to listen and include Council in decision-making. I’ll continue to advocate strongly—and work closely with both the state and federal governments—to deliver the infrastructure and investment our region needs and deserves.

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Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc. is proud to announce a new partnership with Green Energy
Technologies through the installation of a 13.2kW solar system at Eco HQ in the
Whitsundays.

The system will power essential components of Eco Barge’s conservation operations,
including the five quarantine turtle tanks, water pumps, and marine debris recycling
machinery in the Ocean Trash Recycle Shack — allowing Eco HQ to run almost entirely
on clean, renewable energy. This upgrade represents a major milestone in Eco Barge’s
mission to be truly eco-efficient and demonstrate sustainability in action.

“This is more than just solar panels on a roof,” said Libby Edge, Founder of Eco Barge.
“Every day, we do our best to care for our local environment, so being able to harness
renewable energy to power our turtle tanks, recycling machinery, and all our work at
Eco HQ feels like a true gift — from both Green Energy and Mother Nature. It’s the
perfect extension of our commitment to protecting the environment in every way we
can.”

Green Energy Technologies has provided not only top-tier solar technology and
installation but also their exclusive GET360 Guarantee, which ensures long-term
savings, system service, and performance monitoring for 10 years—all covered at no
cost to Eco Barge. This ongoing contribution empowers Eco Barge to operate
sustainably for years to come in partnership with Green Energy. Through their GET
Capital Support Package, Green Energy also reduced the total cost to zero, making this
an incredibly generous contribution to both Eco HQ and the Whitsunday community.

"We're excited to be supporting one of the most important eco-friendly not-for-profit
businesses in the Whitsundays, they're work is vital in protecting our unique and
spectacular ecosystems." Said Kon Flaherty, CEO Green Energy Technologies.

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An Airlie Beach woman’s lunch break took an unexpected turn after she opened her phone and discovered she’d won $100,000 in today’s Lucky Lotteries draw, leaving her lost for words.

The Whitsunday resident held the 1st Prize winning entry in Lucky Lotteries Super Jackpot draw 10988, drawn on Tuesday 27 May 2025. She is now looking forward to receiving a total prize of $100,000.

"Woo-hoo! That’s unbelievable!” she cheered when an official from The Lott confirmed her win.

“I’m on lunch break right now, and when I opened my phone and saw I had multiple missed calls, texts, and an email from The Lott. I thought to myself, ‘What the heck is going on?’.

“Now I’m here and you’re telling me I won $100,000! I’m in complete shock right now.

“I usually enter other lottery games, but something told me to give Lucky Lotteries a go.

“I don’t know what to even say right now. All I can think is that it’s going to be a huge help.

“I’m not entirely sure what we’ll do with the money just yet, but I’d love to get a new car.

“I can’t wait to surprise my husband tonight. I don’t think he’ll believe me.”

Her winning entry of ten random numbers was purchased via The Lott app, the official home of Australia’s lotteries.

The Lucky Lotteries Mega Jackpot prize is currently $6.04 million for draw 1703, while the Lucky Lotteries Super Jackpot stands at $19.35 million for draw 10989.

In 2024, 147 Lucky Lotteries 1st Prize and Jackpot-winning entries across Australia shared in more than $52.2 million in prize money.

The Lott is the official operator of Australia’s leading lottery games, offering chances to win every day. In 2024, more than 195.3 million winners took home over $4.84 billion in prize money from games including Saturday Gold Lotto, Weekday Windfall, Powerball, Oz Lotto, Set for Life, Lucky Lotteries, Keno (SA), Super 66, Lotto Strike, and Instant Scratch-Its.

Last financial year, Australia’s official lotteries contributed more than $1.8 billion to state governments through taxes and donations, supporting vital community initiatives such as hospitals, health research, disaster relief, and education.

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Airlie Beach woman scores big in Lottery

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The B Kinder Foundation is taking meaningful action to foster a kinder world, with two inspiring B Kinder Summits being held this Thursday and Friday at Proserpine State High School. One summit will cater to high school student leaders and the other to primary school leaders. Local students will gather to participate in an immersive event designed to promote kindness, inspire change, and encourage others in the community to get involved.

Founded by former Whitsunday resident Danny Mayson-Kinder, the B Kinder Foundation was established in memory of her 12-year-old daughter, Billie Kinder, who tragically passed away in a horse riding accident in 2016. After Billie’s death, Danny discovered her daughter’s heartfelt poems and artwork, which carried powerful messages of empathy and kindness. These creative works became the foundation for a book that later inspired a movement known as the B Kinder Foundation and the wider B Kinder Day initiative.

Since its inception, the foundation has grown steadily over the past seven years. In 2024, it launched the B Kinder Schools initiative, an annual, student-led program aimed at school leadership teams. The initiative involves students implementing five core kindness projects throughout the year and offers free leadership workshops along with participation in the B Kinder Summit.

This year marks the very first B Kinder Summit, with Whitsunday proudly hosting the inaugural event. Additional summits will take place in Sydney and Tasmania later this year. Illuminate Education Australia is partnering with the B Kinder Foundation to facilitate the summits and has created an authentic, hands-on program that aligns with the foundation’s mission and values.

During the summit, student leaders work in teams to design practical solutions that grow kindness within their schools and communities. These events are crafted to spark ideas, ignite passion and build momentum. Students leave feeling inspired and ready to take meaningful action as ambassadors for kindness.

“The summit is an immersive, powerful experience that empowers young people to realise the strength of kindness and their ability to be agents of change within their schools and communities,” said Danny Mayson-Kinder. “It strengthens relationships among students, teachers and peers and fosters a positive and inclusive school culture.”

Schools that are interested in joining the B Kinder Schools network can apply online at www.bkinderfoundation.org. Participating schools take part in two professionally facilitated workshops each year and are invited to attend the annual B Kinder Summit.

"When B Kinder talks about the impact of kindness, it's not just about soft gestures; it's about shifting attitudes, systems, and the way we value each other," Danny Mayson-Kinder explained.

"It’s about creating a culture where kindness is a foundation for education, policy, leadership, and community.  

"The more we can embed our resources and values like empathy from the very beginning of education, the more likely we are to prevent harmful cycles.  b kinder is about creating a wave of change through small, consistent conversations around kindness."

"Our resources are an opportunity for children to practice kindness and empathy, and the more they practice them, the more it spreads."

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Proserpine State High School students at B Kinder Day last year
Billie Kinder, who has inspired a kinder world

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A Ferris wheel will soon take centre stage at the Airlie Beach Foreshore, with Whitsunday Regional Council announcing a temporary installation beside Airlie Creek from early June through to October 2025. Operating daily from 10am to 10pm, the attraction will feature 24 gondolas seating six people each, offering sweeping views of the Whitsundays.

The five-month trial will help Council assess the success of visitation and community usage of the attraction. Feedback has already been gathered from locals and visitors to understand whether the community sees value in such an experience.

Council is also exploring “dinner wheels” — where guests can enjoy a meal during the ride — and tickets will be affordably priced at just $15, with special discounts for Whitsunday locals.

“We’ve been working with a company looking to bring a Ferris wheel to the Whitsundays,” said Director of Commercial Businesses Craig Turner. “It aligns with our focus on land-based experiences in our Economic Development Strategy.”

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The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry is proud to present the 2025 Whitsunday Business Conference, taking place from 9am to 5pm on Thursday 28 August at the TAFE Queensland Whitsunday Campus in Cannonvale.

This flagship annual event will unite business leaders, innovators and stakeholders from across the region – from Mackay to Townsville – for a dynamic day of insights, connections, and future-focused ideas.

Kicking off the day, nationally recognised business coach and keynote speaker Judy Porter of Shiift will deliver a high-impact, interactive session: Getting Out of Your Own Way.

“Still driving the bus and honking your own horn?” asks Judy. “Maybe it’s time to sit in the passenger seat and let someone else share the wheel.”

Drawing on her 25+ years’ experience as a multi-industry business owner and her background in psychology, Judy will explore how personality traits, belief systems and leadership styles can shape business culture – for better or worse. Her keynote will challenge attendees to trust their team, step into true leadership, and foster resilient workplaces that thrive beyond the founder.

Early Bird tickets are now available for the 2025 Whitsunday Business Conference. This event is open to all and expected to sell out – secure your discounted ticket today and be part of the conversation shaping our region’s future.

Registration: Open to all! Includes morning and afternoon tea, and lunch. Early Bird tickets on sale until 30 June. Tickets start from $79.

Visit the Chamber’s website to learn more and register today!

What: The 2025 Whitsunday Business Conference

When: 9am-5pm Thursday 28 August 2025

Where: TAFE Queensland Whitsunday campus, Cannonvale

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Keynote speaker Judy Porter of Shiift will deliver a high-impact, interactive session: Getting Out of Your Own Way

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Team Whitsundays Dancing CEOs’ Head for Brisbane Showdown

An eight-month marathon of early morning dance practices and late-night planning for fundraising events is about to come to an end for the women behind the Whitsundays’ inaugural team of ‘Dancing CEOs’.

On Saturday night, Julie Telford (SeaLink Whitsundays), Kate Purdie (Coral Sea Marina), Candice Crossley (Whitsunday Transit) and Alice Harriott (Whitsunday Family Dental), will step out on stage at Brisbane’s City Hall in a dance contest showdown for a powerful cause.

‘Dancing CEOs’ is the annual flagship fundraiser for Women’s Legal Service Queensland (WLSQ), an organisation dedicated to helping women and children impacted by domestic violence through providing wrap-around services and free legal advice.

Dr Alice Harriott said over the past eight months, balancing the contradiction between the enjoyment of dancing and the heart-wrenching seriousness of the cause behind it had sometimes felt like a mental juggling act.

“While we’re busy dancing and organising costumes and props – and having a whole lot of fun doing so – there are literally thousands of women across Queensland desperately needing help from WLSQ to survive – and that is not lost on us, and in fact, is absolutely our ‘why’,” she said.

Mad Dance House Artistic Director, Che Pritchard, who choreographed the Whitsunday team’s dance, said this sense of responsibility to the ‘why’ was evident from the start.

“When I met the ladies way back in October last year, I had no doubt their commitment to the fundraising and the performance was unwavering,” he said.

“As they do in business and in life, they've worked so hard to get to where they are now – which is nailing the routine and having a blast while they do it.”

Living more than 1,000 kilometres away from their choreographer has been just one of the many challenges the team has faced, but in this case, they have been aided by Principal Owner at Chez’s House of Dance in Proserpine, Chez O’Brien.

For the past five months, Ms O’Brien has coached the team for three hours each week, with additional support from Whitsunday Regional Council through use of the stage at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre over the last week.

This year’s eight competing teams of Dancing CEOs have been tasked with raising $41,000 each, as a symbol of WLSQ’s 41 years, and to provide vital funds that will keep its life-saving programs running.

Just as all teams will be vying for a win on the dancefloor, there is competition for the title of highest fundraisers of the year.

‘Team Whitsundays Dancing CEOs’ are heading into the big night at the top of the leaderboard, but anything can – and does happen, during the event.

Donations are encouraged via dancingceos.com.au both now and on the night.

For rolling coverage and to watch an event video by the Whitsundays’ ‘Riptide Creative’, follow the ‘Team Whitsundays Dancing CEOs’ Facebook Page.

Contributed with thanks to Sharon Smallwood.

Alice Harriott, Julie Telford, Candice Crossley and Kate Purdie, 'Team Whitsundays Dancing CEOs'
Final rehearsals at the PEC earlier this week

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Brave Local Pulls Over To Ensure Snake Safely Crosses Road

A massive 5.5m scrub python was discovered trying to cross a local road this week, and a video of the incident has gone viral, attracting over half a million views and 600 shares so far.

Author Kate Finnerty came across the giant reptile while returning from a book-signing event for her memoir, ironically titled Never Let a Good Disaster Go to Waste. True to her words, Kate conquered her fear and bravely waited for the python to safely cross the road.

Face To Face With Fear

Selfless Act Likely Saves Snake’s Life

Pulling over to take a look at what she believed was a large log obstructing her path, local author Kat Finnerty was startled to realise the object was in fact a 5.5-metre python.

Quick-thinking and determined to help, Kat instantly jumped onto her phone and called a friend who is accustomed to living alongside pythons.

Adrenaline pumping, Kate has a strong fear of snakes, and this moment in her life represented a significant act of conquering her deepest fear while protecting a creature she felt compelled to save from the wheels of any passing vehicles.

“What I thought was a giant log in the road turned out to be one of my worst fears — a 5.5-meter snake. That’s almost the length of a minivan!” expressed Kate.

“At first, I froze, but then I remembered my first Master of Disaster principle: Master your mind! Stop the story and step into action. So I called a friend, a rainforest warrior who lives with pythons — arrived in her slippers and pyjamas!”

“I felt compelled to stay — not just for me, but for it. I couldn’t let this animal get hit by a car. Even though it gave me the heebie-jeebies, I knew I had to protect it.”

The pair waited for more than half an hour as the giant snake slowly slithered away. Initially, they tried to gently tap its enormous body, hoping to encourage a speedier exit, but the large reptile immediately turned on them to warn them away.

It transpired that patience was the best tactic.

Kate, the author of Never Let A Good Disaster Go To Waste, had been returning from a book signing of her memoir when the incident happened.

She describes her book as a "wild ride through nearly 30 years of overcoming disease, betrayal, and fear — a journey marked by extraordinary risks and relentless courage.

Her story is about facing adversity head-on. Over three decades, she’s taken on daunting challenges to heal and thrive with MS: from surrendering to a risky stem cell transplant, climbing active volcanoes, being swept over waterfalls, and not eating bacon for 15 years.

This serendipitous timing, aligning with the book signing event, was another perfect example to Kate about how life is all about conquering fears.

“I’ve spent two years promoting my memoir about overcoming MS, betrayal, and fear,” she shared.

“And what finally goes viral? A snake video!”

The video Kate posted online has garnered nearly 700 shares and over half a million views so far.

“I’ve spent the past two years manifesting Reese Witherspoon to turn my story into a movie. So now I’m wondering — did it take a 5.5-meter snake to finally get her attention?

“Reese — if you’re reading this — I faced the snake, I climbed the volcano, I gave up bacon, I lived the disaster. Now I’m ready for the movie!”

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Hi Everyone,

One of the things I truly love about our sunny state is our fearless spirit — the desire not just to aim high, but to celebrate the best and strive to achieve the best.

Whether that is patting someone on the back for winning an award or aiming for excellence in our own fields. Over the years, I’ve seen that in our community it’s not about racing to be the best — it’s about everyone bringing their best to the table. Being the very best version of ourselves. And I truly love that.

This mindset shines through in two exciting statewide campaigns recently launched ahead of Queensland Day on June 6.

The Best of Queensland Experience Program by Tourism & Events Queensland has recognised over 120 incredible local operators — keep an eye out for a special feature we’ll be running in the paper next week to celebrate these high achievers.

If you’re one of those 120 businesses and haven’t booked your spot yet, please call Trish on 0499 500 406 — she’d be delighted to include you.

On top of that, the Queensland Government recently launched the ‘All The Best’ campaign — a fantastic chance for all Queenslanders to vote for their favourites, whether it’s the best meat pie, local event, or landmark.

The overall winner will be announced by the Premier on Queensland Day.

Our region is brimming with ‘Bests,’ so let’s rally behind our own and see if we can crown a Whitsunday product, landmark, or activity as the best in the state.

There are so many passionate people fuelling what makes our region truly fabulous — who or what do you know and love? What deserves to be our Best?

Rach

Quote of the Week: "The goal is not to be better than the other person. The goal is to be better than your previous self" (Dalai Lama)

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Friday, 6th June | 5:00pm – 9:00pm

Dust off your boots and mark your calendars! On the 6th June, Whitsunday Christian College will come together for a night of music, laughter, and good old-fashioned fun at the Under the Stars, Bush Dance. This whole-school event is open to the wider community and is set to be an unforgettable evening of connection, celebration, and country spirit!

At the heart of this event is Whitsunday Christian College's commitment to Cultivating Community - one of their core values. They believe that shared experiences strengthen bonds, and what better way to unite our community than through dance, music, and laughter?

Invite family, friends and neighbours to join in the fun and enjoy;
• Bush Dancing Extravaganza! Students have been learning the art of bush dancing as part of their curriculum, and they’ll be leading us through traditional group dances. No experience? No worries!
• Live Music – The Smashing Bumpkins, a well-known country band, will set the beat, performing live and calling the dances.
• Eat Street Under the Festoon Lights – A variety of food vans will serve up delicious eats for every taste.
• Animal Farm – A delightful, hands-on experience for the little ones (and the young at heart!).
• Jumping Castles – How high can you jump?
• Barnyard Games – Classic country fun for all ages.
• Photo Booth – Capture the memories with friends and family.
• Face Painting, Glitter Tattoos & Mr Poppa’s Balloons – Fun, colour, and creativity for the kids!
• Merchandise Stall – Take home a special keepsake from the night.

This event you won’t want to miss! A great night out with the family with some good old fashioned fun. Get those flannels and cowboy hats ready!

Whitsunday Christian College can’t wait to see students, families, and the wider community Under the Stars for an evening of music, movement, and memories.

What: Under The Stars Bush Dance
Where: Whitsunday Christian College
When: Friday 6th June (5pm - 9pm)

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A great pioneering lady and a woman of stamina

Born Elizabeth Alberta Davis at Kelsey Creek on June 22 1906, she was one of a family of four. Elizabeth attended Kelsey Creek School from 1911 to 1917 and throughout her young life helped in her family’s struggle to establish a cane farm in pioneering conditions. This was just the beginning of a life of hard work and dedication.

On September 20, 1922, she married William Allan and they settled into their first home at Saltwater in the Cedar Creek area where they raised cattle, pigs and goats. After 13 years, in 1935, they moved to Conway to a fruit and cane farm. Elizabeth and William raised 13 children – 8 boys and 5 girls; their youngest child dying in infancy. Sadly, after 49 years of marriage, William died on February 28 1971.

Elizabeth worked hard on the land – mustering and branding while living at Saltwater; then ploughing, cultivating and cutting cane when they moved to Conway but she loved the outdoor life. With no electricity and few modern appliances, days were long and hard, however, Elizabeth had one diversion which she enjoyed immensely - crabbing and net fishing - seldom missing a trip.

In 1941, she suffered an infected mosquito bite resulting in the loss of her left arm but she did not let this defeat her. She coped with her handicap, working as normally as possible and continuing to ride side-saddle. Two of her children were born after this tragedy.

Elizabeth enjoyed sewing and continued to make clothes for all the family on the old-style treadle machine. Making her daughters’ wedding dresses and cakes were some of the highlights of her busy life.  She made 5 outfits for her eldest daughter’s wedding and outfits for another daughter’s wedding.

But there’s more …

Elizabeth Allan was a committed volunteer devoting many hours of service to her community.

In 1984, she joined the Coral Coast Branch of the Avicultural Society of Queensland Inc and was an active member until ill health prevented her from participating. For over 60 years, she maintained her interest in breeding poultry which she exhibited in agricultural shows between Mackay and Ingham. On these occasions, she and William camped out in a tent.

For many years, she provided and served delicious morning teas and lunches to the Proserpine Agricultural Show Committee. Mum Allan’s Smokos were the talk of the show members and others at the working bees. In recognition of her long-time involvement with the Proserpine Agricultural, Pastoral and Industrial Society (Show Society), Elizabeth was made a Life Member of that organisation. She was also a Life Member of the Poultry Club and Orchid Society and an early member of the Kennel Club.

In 1988, Elizabeth was honoured in a special tribute at the women’s section of the National Party – named Mother of the Year. The following year, in 1989, she was awarded the Diana Chapter Award by the Alpha Phi Chapter of the ESA in Proserpine.

The Community Service Award presented to Elizabeth by the Whitsunday Shire Council in 1992 was fitting acknowledgement of her years of service to her community.

The loss of her arm at the age of just 35 did not deter Elizabeth. She overcame adversity, raising a large family and making a significant contribution to our district, but still managed to find the time to pursue her hobbies of gardening, breeding caged birds, growing orchids and ferns. What an extraordinary lady.

Story courtesy of Proserpine Historical Museum.

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Elizabeth Allan was yet another notable woman of the Whitsundays who is acknowledged for her contribution to the community throughout her lifetime.  Photo credit: Dorothy Rowe (nee Allan)

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Eight-year-old Koby is a small to medium-sized terrier mix who’s searching for a loving new home after being surrendered through no fault of his own. This charming boy is described as very cute, cuddly, and absolutely adores attention. With his striking markings and warm personality, he’s sure to melt hearts.

Koby is toilet trained, cat friendly, and gets along well with other dogs, making him an easy addition to many family settings. He’s not suitable for homes with chooks or birds, but he does enjoy walks on the lead and being around people. As an inside dog, Koby would thrive in a home where someone is around most of the time.

If you're looking for a loyal, affectionate companion, Koby could be the perfect match. His adoption fee is $850. To learn more or express your interest, please message Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue directly on 0459 757 455.

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Tourism Whitsundays' New Partnerships Coordinator

Tourism Whitsundays has welcomed a new Partnerships Coordinator, Zoe Lunardelli,  who brings a deep appreciation for the region and a strong focus on community connections.

Having first visited The Whitsundays on holiday in 2019, Zoe said she “instantly fell in love” with the region. After multiple return visits, the natural beauty and welcoming community made it an easy decision to call this place home.

In her new role, Zoe will focus on building relationships that support the area’s visibility and tourism growth.

"I’m most excited about connecting with the local community and contributing to the ongoing success of our destination marketing," she said.

"It’s a privilege to promote such an iconic and naturally stunning part of the world."

While many visitors are drawn to the world-famous islands, she encourages both tourists and locals to explore further.

"Don’t just stick to the islands—explore the mainland too! From Mackay to Bowen, there are countless hidden gems, charming towns, and natural wonders that deserve just as much attention."

With an excitement to start Zoe's appointment signals Tourism Whitsundays’ ongoing commitment to fostering strong partnerships and sharing the full story of the Whitsundays—beyond the beaches.

Contributed by Zoe Lunardelli, Partnerships Coordinator, Tourism Whitsundays

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Tourism Whitsundays Partnerships Coordinator, Zoe Lunardelli. Photo supplied

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Whitsunday Coast Airport is celebrating a significant five-year deal with Jetstar Airways that is set to deliver up to a 30 percent uplift in passenger numbers compared to 2024, driven by a significant boost in flight frequency across multiple routes.

While QantasLink flights will cease from October, increased Jetstar services will exceed previous
capacity and significantly boost connectivity to the Whitsundays.

A key feature of the new deal is the introduction of Jetstar’s larger A321 aircraft significantly
increasing passenger capacity per flight.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins welcomed the announcement which includes daily
flights to Melbourne, up to 11 weekly services to Sydney and 10 weekly services to Brisbane.

“Jetstar’s continued investment in the Whitsundays reflects their strong confidence in our region as a premier destination,” Mayor Collins said.

“With consistently strong load factors to Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane, this expansion is a
natural next step, and we expect to see even greater passenger growth during future school
holiday and peak travel periods,” he said.

“With the additional direct capacity, Whitsunday Coast Airport will continue to deliver on its promise - cheaper, faster, direct.”

Director of Commercial Businesses Craig Turner said the airport’s collaborative approach with
Jetstar to increase capacity is an exciting outcome for both the airport and the wider Whitsunday
region.

“We anticipate it will lead to more competitive fares - a win for the community and our visitors,
while also strengthening the airport’s revenue base,” Mr Turner said.

“Tourism, agriculture, mining and freight distribution already play a vital role in our regional
economy and these additional flights will help us capitalise on those strengths. Increased
connectivity makes it easier to do business in the Whitsundays and opens the door to further
growth across these key sectors,” he said.

“With the introduction of the larger A321 aircraft, capable of flying greater distances, Whitsunday
Coast Airport will also now be positioned to explore longer-haul routes in the future.”

Mayor Collins noted the increased capacity and potential for expanded connectivity adds weight to
Council’s push for $8.25M and $22.6M in federal funding to deliver Stage 1 projects from the 2024
Master Plan.

“Ensuring our airport infrastructure can keep pace with demand and support continued growth is
integral and the recent announcement also provides valuable data and momentum for our ongoing
advocacy efforts to secure this strategic investment.”

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As Bowen’s Big Mango celebrated its birthday on the weekend, this iconic tourist attraction has been very busy in recent weeks.

It is expected to become even busier in the months ahead with so many people from the southern states heading to Bowen for the winter to escape the cooler weather in NSW and Victoria.

Bowen’s Big Mango is located on the Bruce Highway 5km south of Bowen, right next to the Bowen Visitor Information Centre.

It was erected in May 2002, so it has just turned 23 years old.

The 10 metre structure cost almost $90,000 to build and is a replica of the Kensington Pride variety of mango. Bowen is the birthplace in Australia of the Kensington Pride, after it was introduced from India in 1871.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said the team at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre had welcomed more visitors so far this year than for the same period last year.

"In March, our visitor numbers were up by 8% on last year, and then in April, the increase was 6%,” she said.

“As the month of May comes to an end, I am confident the final tally will also show an increase on last year’s figures.”

The number of interstate visitors is starting to increase again, as it usually does at this time of the year, as the Grey Nomads start arriving for the next three months.

“In March and April, our total interstate visitors per month was sitting at about 16% of our total visitors but this has increased to 23% in May as the southern migration starts,” Leanne said.

Contributed with thanks to Bowen Tourism and Business

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Visitors Michael and Heather from Brisbane with Bowen Tourism and Business team member Melissa Beuzeville, at the Big Mango on Sunday, May 25. Photo supplied

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