Discussions around sugar marketing and governance have resurfaced following the recent Queensland Sugar Limited (QSL) Annual General Meeting, where proposed constitutional changes prompted differing views between CANEGROWERS representatives and miller members, including Wilmar Sugar and Renewables.

Plane Creek Area Committee Chairman Kevin Borg said that growers across Queensland are “growing tired of conflict in the sugar marketing space.”

Mr Borg said the CANEGROWERS Plane Creek Area Committee, whose members supply Wilmar Plane Creek Mill, were disappointed at the outcome of a vote at the QSL AGM.

As a QSL Grower Representative Member for Plane Creek, Mr Borg spoke at the meeting on 21 October, saying it was time for QSL to “take the gloves off.”

Mr Borg stated that QSL sought to change its constitution to have members’ right to vote based on the amount of sugar they market through the body, aligning voting rights with those who use its services. He explained that currently, millers have a voting right based on their suppliers’ Grower Economic Interest (GEI) sugar – a clause dating back to the single-desk marketing era.

Mr Borg said, “Millers Wilmar and MSF voted down proposed changes to the QSL constitution. These mills market the entirety of their Mill Economic Interest sugar production through their own marketing arms, having no interest in the future of QSL except as a competitor.”

He added, “Whilst we don’t have an issue with these millers using their own marketing arm, it remains an issue that they refuse to have their right to vote based on present day throughputs and not based on a constitution that was fit for the past regulated, non-competitive era.”

“As competitors to QSL, this gives them control within the QSL organisation and an opportunity to white-ant the organisation from within,” Mr Borg said.

He commended millers who supported the proposed constitutional vote, adding, “I commend those Millers – Mackay Sugar, Bundaberg Sugar and Isis Sugar – who supported the vote and have shown common sense and a willingness to work with industry.”

Mr Borg further stated,“STL has already gone down the path of removing QSL as Bulk Sugar Terminal Operator as of 30 June 2026, giving STL a monopoly control of Queensland’s sugar terminal ownership and operations.”

Mr Borg said, “Lack of investment in our mill is also a thorn in growers’ sides, causing longer season lengths and thus reduced crops, this being a root cause of growers choosing leaving the industry.”

In response to Mr Borg’s comments, a Wilmar Sugar and Renewables spokesperson stated that, “Half of the miller members did not support QSL’s proposed constitution changes, including Wilmar.

“QSL members have rights to influence only a small number of governance matters. Importantly, these voting rights do not provide strategic or operational control of QSL’s marketing activities.

“Under the sugar industry regulatory framework, all millers are – and will remain – inextricably linked to QSL in its role as a marketer, irrespective of their marketing decisions.

“It’s important for miller members to retain their limited voting rights to protect their legitimate interests as supply chain participants.

“Wilmar does not have a controlling interest in Sugar Terminals Limited (STL).”

Both CANEGROWERS and Wilmar have reiterated their commitment to the long-term sustainability of Queensland’s sugar industry, despite differences in opinion on how marketing structures and governance should evolve.

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Wilmar Sugar and Renewables’ Proserpine Mill crushed out early Saturday morning, bringing an end to a successful season.

It was the second of Wilmar’s eight sugar factories to finish the 2025 season.
Proserpine Mill Manager Operations Cory O’Shea said the last bin went through the tippler
at 6.30am Saturday (1 November).

“In total, we processed 1.48M tonnes of cane for the year to make about 205,000 tonnes of
raw sugar.

“The crop dropped off towards the back end of the season due to the warm, dry weather, but sugar content was above budget. We ended up with a provisional season CCS of 14.4 units.”

Mr O’Shea paid tribute to all Proserpine Mill employees, as well as growers and harvesting contractors, for their hard work in getting the crop off.

“I’m particularly proud of the job our people did this year – both in the factory and our cane supply team. It was a tremendous effort on all fronts,” he said.

“We had good factory performance, which contributed to the earlier finish. We also had a much better run of weather in 2025 than we’ve had in recent years, so we didn’t lose as much time to rain.

“An early finish puts us in a good position to finish the washdown and start our maintenance program before Christmas. This will take some pressure off, in terms of delivering our capital and maintenance program. It’ll also set the industry up for a better crop next year.”

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Cory O'Shea and Jamie Bell celebrating the last bin for 2025 at the Proserpine Mill. Photo supplied

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BRAVUS and the North Queensland Toyota Cowboys are ready to kick goals in 2026 under a new Platinum
Partnership that includes the company’s mining, rail, port and renewables businesses.

BRAVUS Head of Reputation Kate Campbell said the new sponsorship deal would take the powerhouse tieup between the mine, rail, port and renewables business and the North’s favourite sporting team to its 10-year anniversary in 2028.

"We are excited that our BRAVUS brand will feature on the Cowboys’ NRL jersey sleeve from next year so the 2000-plus employees from our local port, mine, rail and renewables businesses can share in the fun of being part of the Cowboys family,” Ms Campbell said.

"Our people work and live in Cowboys’ territory - the Isaac region, where our mine and solar farm are located, Townsville, Rockhampton, Mackay, where we have offices, and Bowen, where our rail and port business are located.

“Fans can expect to see big trains and ships alongside coal haul trucks and excavators in our 2026 advertising campaign, which will add a bit of extra fun to the season.”

Previously, only BRAVUS’ mining business Bravus Mining and Resources, held the Platinum Partnership, whereas now it rests with the parent company BRAVUS.

North Queensland Toyota Cowboys Chief Commercial Officer Dean Payne and players Jake Clifford and Jaxon Purdue joined Ms Campbell to celebrate the partnership renewal.

Clifford and Purdue modelled the Bravus brand on the sleeves of the North Queensland Toyota Cowboys NRL side’s 2026 home and away jerseys.

"The North Queensland Toyota Cowboys are proud to continue our partnership with Bravus. United by a
shared commitment to advancing regional Queensland and showcasing our region with pride, this
partnership has always been a natural fit,” Mr Payne said.

"We're excited for the next chapter of our partnership which will expand beyond Bravus Mining and
Resources to embrace the Heart of Cowboys territory, spanning Abbot Point Operations, Bowen Rail
Company and the North Queensland Export Terminal."

Clifford said he was excited to wear the BRAVUS brand again, albeit in a different way, in 2026.

"Pretty much since I made my NRL debut, Bravus have been supporting what we do on field and making it possible for us to live out our dreams of playing in the NRL," he said.

"Heaps of the players and fans have family who work at the mine or the port, so it's a part of what makes us proud to pull on the jersey each week and take the field to represent our region."

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North Queensland Toyota Cowboys players Jaxon Purdue and Jake Clifford with Bravus Head of Reputation Kate Campbell. Photo supplied

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Mentoring is more than just personal or professional development, it’s a strategic tool that can transform workplaces, strengthen company culture, and create long-term benefits for both individuals and organisations. By fostering collaboration, communication, and leadership, a structured mentoring program can improve an organisation’s Employee Value Proposition (EVP) and have a lasting impact on its success.

The 2025 Mackay Mentoring Network Program for Resource Industry Network (RIN) members is a prime example of this approach in action. The initiative supports current and aspiring managers and leaders from regional industries and local government, offering them the chance to connect, learn, and grow in a confidential and non-judgemental environment.

Through participation in a mutually beneficial developmental relationship, mentees can explore their career paths, refine their skills, and gain valuable insights from experienced professionals. The program also helps mentors expand their own leadership and communication skills, while contributing to the professional growth of others.

Benefits for Mentees and Mentors
For mentees, the program provides a supportive environment to discuss career concerns, receive feedback, and learn from real-world experience. It also helps them develop confidence, build professional networks, and gain clarity in career direction.

For mentors, it’s an opportunity to give back to the industry, share expertise, and gain new perspectives. The experience allows them to further enhance their leadership and mentoring abilities while expanding their professional connections.

While the program doesn’t guarantee job placement or promotion, it offers something far more valuable — genuine career growth, professional guidance, and the chance to be part of a supportive leadership network within the Mackay region.

Mentees and mentors will complete an application form to help organisers pair participants effectively, ensuring the best possible mentoring partnerships. Mentees will be asked about their goals and areas of interest, while mentors will outline the areas where they can offer guidance.
For mentees, participation costs $400 (ex GST), which includes access to all program events and the Art of Mentoring platform for ongoing resources and support. There is no cost for mentors.

To apply as a mentee, individuals must be members or employees of the Mackay Regional Council or Resource Industry Network. Mentors should have a passion for supporting others, a willingness to learn, and the ability to commit to the needs of their mentee throughout the program.

For more information, contact Tennille Allen, Organisational Development Officer (Culture), at organisational.development@mackay.qld.gov.au or phone 4961 9955. RIN members can also contact General Manager Dean Kirkwood at dean@rin.org.au.

With training, tailored activities, and networking opportunities included, the 2025 Mackay Mentoring Network Program promises to equip participants with the tools, insights, and relationships needed to lead with confidence — and to make a meaningful impact in their professional communities.

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Photo source: Resource Industry Network

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Three community groups in the Pioneer Valley will benefit from a $25,000 injection of funding through round 4 of the Capricornia Pumped Hydro Project’s pre-construction Community Benefit Fund.

The Mackay Regional SES Unit Support Group, Pioneer Valley Rail Trail Group, and Eungella Craft Group have received funding to support projects that improve local resilience, enhance community wellbeing, and promote the area’s natural assets.

Capricornia Pumped Hydro Project CEO John Carr said the fund was an important way of supporting the communities that will host the project.

“We’re proud to support initiatives that strengthen local capability and contribute to the long-term sustainability and vibrancy of the region,” Mr Carr said.

The Mackay Regional SES Unit Support Group will receive $1,500 to purchase a Starlink kit to improve emergency communications in remote areas where mobile coverage is limited.

“Reliable communication can make all the difference during a critical response,” said a spokesperson for the SES Support Group.

“This investment will help us respond faster and more effectively during emergencies, especially in hard-toreach areas.”

The Pioneer Valley Rail Trail Group has been awarded $21,300 to undertake drainage works along the Benholme section of the trail, and the Swamp Crossing vehicle crossover, a vital safety upgrade.

President Mike Browne said, “this grant will significantly enhance the trail in two key ways. Firstly, it will extend the period of the year that people can enjoy the trail without getting ‘bogged down’ in wet areas.

“It also takes us another step towards making the trail more accessible for everyone in our community, helping to support wellbeing by providing easier access to a healthy, outdoor activity.”

The Eungella Craft Group will receive $2,200 to host three community workshops focused on natural dyeing, felting, and earring-making. These will be led by expert practitioners and open to the wider community.

“These workshops are about more than just craft, they’re an opportunity to connect, learn something new, and share skills,” said a Eungella Craft Group representative.

The Pre-construction Community Benefit Fund provides funding to support initiatives that promote sustainability, reduce emissions, enhance local amenity, and build cultural awareness in the region.

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Photo source: Queensland Hydro

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A New Interactive Tool For Regional Biomanufacturing

The Greater Whitsunday region launched BioVision, an interactive tool highlighting its biomanufacturing strengths to investors, government, and industry.

Proudly supported by the Queensland Government, BioVision is the first tool of its kind in the sector, combining data and strategic insights to show how Greater Whitsunday is positioning itself as a biomanufacturing leader.

Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) Chief Executive Officer Ms Kylie Porter said BioVision is more than a map—it is a gateway to the future.

“It tells the story of a region that’s ready to lead, with the feedstock, infrastructure, workforce, and vision to become a globally significant biomanufacturing hub.

“We’re not waiting for opportunity to knock, with BioVision we are building the door.”

Ms Porter said Greater Whitsunday’s rich feedstock, strong infrastructure, and skilled workforce make it a prime location for biomanufacturing.

“The region’s proximity to fast-growing Asian markets and its favourable climate for year-round biomass production further strengthen its strategic advantage."

BioVision lets users explore the region’s biomanufacturing strengths through an interactive map, showcasing key locations, infrastructure, and industry capabilities.

Ms Porter said biomanufacturing is not a new concept for Greater Whitsunday. Since the release of Queensland’s Biofutures Roadmap in 2016, the region has worked with government, research institutions, and industry leaders to build momentum and capability.

“The region is already home to enabling infrastructure like the QUT Pioneer Biopilot, a national-scale facility supporting research and commercialisation in industrial biotechnology.

“With growing recognition of its potential to host large-scale biomanufacturing facilities, Greater Whitsunday is emerging as a key player in Australia’s bioeconomy.”

BioVision is now live and accessible to the public. Users can explore the tool at their own pace.

Visit BioVision today.

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The OurSCAPE Art Exhibition, organised by Artists Connect Inc, opened on Friday, 24 November at Gallery 31, CQ University Mackay City Campus, celebrating the creativity and resilience of the Mackay, Isaac, and Whitsunday regions.

The exhibition is the culmination of the OurSCAPE Art Challenges, held across multiple regional locations including the Proserpine Rock Wallaby Festival, The Leap Hotel, St Lawrence Wetlands, and the Cape Hillsborough Masterclass. Each artist was given just four hours to complete their works, with 30 artists participating in the Challenges and 18 attending the Cape Hillsborough Masterclass retreat.

Mackay Regional Councillor Namarca Corowa praised the exhibition for reflecting the spirit of the community.

“The images captured throughout this exhibition…really capture the heart of our community. In that, they tell the story of our resilience, and what it took to build the region that we have today,” he said.

Cr Corowa highlighted how the works represent both Mackay’s history and its community values.

“Mackay recently being voted as number one for work-life balance, speaks to how our region values hard work, as well as that community spirit,” he said.

He also emphasised the importance of the region’s environment and heritage, noting the landscapes, beaches, and iconic Queenslander buildings.

“The mountains and the wildlife, speaks to how we’ve been able to have this community that’s so resourceful whilst maintaining the key elements of our environment, too,” he said.

Arts educator Glenda Hobdell praised the exhibition as a vibrant showcase that “brings people together.”

Now in its second year open to the public, the event encourages artists to step out of their comfort zones and create works within a limited timeframe.

“It’s about challenging our artists to step out of their comfort zone and to create something in a short time, but in a collegial environment as well,” Glenda said.

The exhibition welcomed both members and non-members aged 18 and over, with participants this year ranging from 18 up to 70.

Glenda encourages aspiring artists of all ages to “connect with those around you in the community… and believe you can do it – because you can. Everyone is born an artist.”

Glenda thanked the event’s strong community support and acknowledged the partnerships with organisations such as Artspace Mackay and Orange Sky.

Through Artists Connect Inc, Glenda continues to mentor emerging artists, run workshops, and strengthen the bond between artists and community, ensuring the region’s creative talent continues to flourish.

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Glenda Hobdell and Cr Namarca Corowa celebrated the OurSCAPE Art Exhibition, showcasing the creativity, resilience, and community spirit of the Mackay, Isaac, and Whitsunday regions. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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The Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre (MECC) has been awarded Gold for Business Event Venue at the Mackay Isaac Tourism Awards 2025, recognising the venue’s excellence in hosting business events, conferences, and corporate gatherings.

As the largest convention facility between Cairns and Brisbane, the MECC boasts a 1,090-seat auditorium, two plenary halls, four meeting rooms, a 100-seat studio, breakout areas, and an in-house professional conference organiser office.

Over the past year, the centre welcomed more than 80,000 visitors and hosted over 100 business events, including major gatherings such as the Australian Regional Tourism (ART) Conference, Queensland Country Women’s Association Annual Conference, Queensland Mining Awards, Institute of Public Works Engineering Australia (NQ) Conference, Resource Industry Network Professional Development Conference, and the Australian Sugar Milling Safety Conference.

Key innovations contributed to MECC’s recognition, including the launch of the MECC Event Portal, streamlining event planning, document sharing, and communication for clients. The venue also upgraded its PA system across major spaces for clearer, more reliable sound and implemented a strategic team restructure to enhance client experience and operational efficiency.

Customer service remains a hallmark of the MECC, with a 95% client satisfaction rating. Initiatives such as the MECC “SHOWTIME” program celebrate staff excellence and embed service standards, while real-time QR code feedback provides instant visitor insights.

Sustainability and inclusivity are also priorities, with biodegradable catering and waste-sorting stations, energy-efficient LED lighting, and accessibility upgrades including Companion Card ticketing currently underway.

Executive Manager Andrew Bobeldyk said, “It’s been a big year, and this award is a credit to our entire team. Their hard work, passion, and commitment to excellence are what make the MECC such a standout venue for business events in Queensland.”

Celebrating innovation, service, and professionalism, the award underpins the MECC as a leading venue and a must-visit destination for high profile events.

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Tucked away in one of Andergrove’s most tightly held pockets, 13/42 Wattle Street is where architectural flair meets everyday functionality. Every inch of this remarkable home has been designed with purpose – offering the perfect sanctuary for families, professionals, and entertainers alike.
 
Behind the understated façade lies a home that truly delivers on all fronts: five generous bedrooms, four bathrooms (three ensuited), and a selection of indoor and outdoor living zones that flow seamlessly for both privacy and togetherness.
 
The heart of the home – the kitchen – is a culinary masterpiece. Boasting three ovens, including a steamer, a gas cooktop, and a built-in Miele dishwasher, this space has been curated for those who value both beauty and performance. Overlooking the dining and living areas, it effortlessly connects to the undercover patio, creating a true entertainer’s dream.
 
Attention to detail is evident everywhere – from the VeriShades in the dining area that filter light perfectly, to the 20kW solar system that keeps energy bills in check without sacrificing comfort. The air-conditioned garage/workshop adds flexibility for hobbyists or those working from home, while rear lane access and space for a shed make it as practical as it is polished.
 
Set within a boutique, secure enclave, this home provides peace of mind and a strong sense of community, yet remains only minutes from schools, shopping, and the Mackay Marina.
 
Whether you’re a growing family seeking space, a couple wanting room to host, or simply someone who appreciates quality craftsmanship, 13/42 Wattle Street promises a lifestyle upgrade in every sense.
 
At a Glance:

• 5 bedrooms | 4 bathrooms (3 ensuited)
• Gourmet kitchen with 3 ovens, steamer & Miele dishwasher
• Multiple indoor & outdoor living areas
• 20kW solar system | VeriShades | air-conditioned garage/workshop
• Rear lane access with room for a shed
   
  Discover the home that redefines modern Andergrove living.

Contact Area Specialist Shirlz Russell today to experience it for yourself.

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Photos supplied

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Airlie Beach Festival of Music 2025 Has Arrived!

Get ready! The Airlie Beach Festival of Music is back this weekend, and it’s set to be bigger than ever!

With more than 60 acts lighting up bars, cafes, and iconic venues across town, Airlie Beach transforms into one giant stage. Catch headline performances from Jessica Mauboy, Pete Murray, The Screaming Jets, Diesel, The Black Sorrows, Choirboys and more under the big tent at the Whitsunday Sailing Club.

This award-winning festival is the event in paradise. Tickets are still available, make sure you don't miss it!

Jessica Mauboy's First Airlie Beach Festival of Music

For the first time in a long time Jessica Mauboy returns to a festival stage, and crowds in Airlie Beach will be the lucky ones to witness it.

Best known for her powerhouse vocals and warm stage presence, Mauboy first captured national attention on Australian Idol and has since become one of the country’s most celebrated artists. But despite her fame, she says it’s performing live that brings her the most joy.

“Being able to play live is my ultimate favourite. So, it’s an absolute honour and opportunity to be able to do that in Airlie Beach. I'm looking forward to that,” she said.

Festival-goers can expect a setlist spanning her full career, from early hits and soundtrack favourites from The Sapphires, through to fresh material like her latest single While I Got Time, which recently featured on Home and Away.

Mauboy said the inspiration behind the track came from a deeply personal creative brief.

“The intentional production was very intimate and just little harmonies here and there, just to kind of hear the guitar play, the emotions of the lyrics and the voice, is what we wanted," she expressed.

“I've never been a part of a project like that in my life. So this was really unexpected, but such a really warm project and sincere experience I've never been a part of.”

While she’s excited to headline the Airlie Beach main stage, Mauboy is equally passionate about supporting emerging talent through initiatives like Passport to Airlie, which provides opportunities for up-and-coming musicians to perform at future festivals.

“Our local stages are so important, so we need to take care of them, we need to nurture them. As much as the big stages outside are amazing. You always remember the beginning of it, and I still remember my first stage,” she said.

“The one thing I would say is learn from that experience. Learn from the stages. Learn from the people who build the stages from the ground up, and who create the festivals and take care of them.”

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Hi Everyone,

You may notice something a little different about this edition of the paper – we have rebranded!

After five years with the same masthead, the team thought it was time to freshen up our look, and I’m sure you’ll agree the new cover really does pop! Inspired by our lush green hinterland and the Great Barrier Reef – where all four of our regional newspapers are located – we opted for a vibrant blue-green gradient.

You’ll also notice our brand name ‘LiFE’ is now more prominent. This is because we want people up and down the coast to easily identify one of our publications.

Plus, LiFE really resonates with us as a team – not only do we love life, we’re all about promoting the local lifestyle and delivering positive community news to the regions.

For more than five years, we’ve been dedicated to bringing back the community’s free voice in print, and next year I’m looking forward to broadening our scope even more.

As you know, newspapers aren’t just printed anymore – they’re experienced in many ways: holding a hard copy in your hand, scrolling through stories on Facebook, liking photos on Instagram, and heading online to read, watch and listen to the news.

As we continue to evolve, our journalists will also be updating our website daily and uploading breaking news as it happens across the region.

News moves fast – and even though we live in a relaxed regional town, so do we!

Our newly refreshed branding marks the start of a new era for us – one we’re really looking forward to sharing with all of you.

Rach

Quote of the Week: "You cannot get through a single day without having an impact on the world around you. What you do makes a difference and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make" (Jane Goodall)

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Not all heroes wear capes, some crawl through storm drains.

When residents in Jubilee Pocket noticed a young curlew trapped in a storm drain and unable to escape for two days, they raised the alarm. Concerned for the bird’s wellbeing, the community reached out for help and Fauna Rescue Whitsundays volunteer Trent didn’t hesitate to answer the call.

Braving the heat and tight conditions, Trent crawled around 100 metres underground to reach the frightened curlew. After a tense few moments, he emerged safely with the little bird in his hands, tired and hot but unharmed.

The rescue has since captured the hearts of locals, serving as a reminder of the incredible dedication shown by the region’s volunteer wildlife carers.

Fauna Rescue Whitsundays posted on Facebook about the ordeal and thanked him for rescuing the curlew.

"These are the moments that remind us just how dedicated our community of wildlife heroes truly is," they said on the post.

The young curlew was released back into the wild and was spotted with a friend shortly after, a happy ending made possible by a local hero and caring community.

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On Wednesday morning at 2.35am paramedics were called to Island Drive in Cannonvale after a woman suffered a head injury following an e-scooter incident.

Queensland Ambulance Service reported that the woman was taken to Proserpine Hospital in a potentially life-threatening condition.

Two hours later in Bowen, a woman in her 50s was taken to hospital following an e-scooter incident on Whitsunday Street around 4.35am.

She was transported to Bowen Hospital in a stable condition, suffering from chest pain.

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Bowen is set to undergo a major transformation with the development of the Bowen Foreshore Master Plan, a long-term strategy designed to revitalise the town’s waterfront and strengthen its identity as a vibrant regional hub.

Stretching more than a kilometre along the coast, from the south-west edge of Mitchell Street to the Eddie McCane Place parklands, and including the Bowen Boat Harbour, Santa Barbara Parade, and Bowen Jetty, the plan outlines a vision to create a connected, inclusive, and sustainable foreshore precinct that celebrates Bowen’s character and community spirit.

The master plan aims to unite local stakeholders, guide future development, and deliver projects that generate long-term economic, social, and environmental benefits. By providing a clear yet adaptable framework, it positions Bowen to attract investment, secure grant funding, and advocate for initiatives aligned with Council and community priorities.

Aligned with the Whitsunday 2030 Economic Development Strategy, the plan focuses on revitalising the waterfront, stimulating tourism, and unlocking new opportunities for local businesses. Enhancements will include improved access and connectivity, greener public spaces, and vibrant social and cultural areas that encourage people to live, visit, and invest in Bowen.

A key element of the plan, Precinct 1: Leisure at the Shore, envisions a lively foreshore blending leisure, culture, and nature. Anchored by the new Bowen Jetty and the proposed Bowen Catalina Experience Centre, the precinct will feature family-friendly activities, dining, retail, and cultural attractions. Streetscape upgrades along Santa Barbara Parade will create a low-speed, pedestrian-friendly boulevard linking the foreshore with the town centre, enhancing walkability and local business activity.

Resilience and sustainability are central to the design, with strategies to mitigate climate change impacts such as sea-level rise and storm surges. The plan includes shaded areas, native vegetation, and strengthened seawalls that provide both protection and recreational opportunities.

Ultimately, the Bowen Foreshore Master Plan represents a community-driven vision, one that connects residents, businesses, and visitors through shared pride in Bowen’s heritage and optimism for its future. By balancing growth, sustainability, and identity, the plan will help shape a vibrant waterfront destination for generations to come.

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The Airlie Beach Masterplan sets a bold vision for the future (Photo Source: Whitsunday Regional Council)

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Whitsunday Regional Council has voted unanimously to reopen the popular Proserpine RV Rest Stop, marking a major win for local tourism and small business in the heart of Proserpine.

Located behind St Catherine’s Church on Main Street, the free 48-hour stopover will welcome fully self-contained vehicles from April to October each year, coinciding with the region’s dry season. The decision is expected to inject between $860,000 and $1.7 million annually into the local economy, as travellers spend on goods, services, and attractions around town.

Mayor Ry Collins said the move highlights Council’s ongoing commitment to strengthening regional tourism and supporting local business growth.

“Reopening the Proserpine RV Rest Stop makes good sense for our region as it’s a small investment with a big return,” Mayor Collins said.

“This initiative reinforces Proserpine’s role as a welcoming gateway to the Whitsundays and delivers a real boost for local shops, cafes and service providers.

“It’s about getting travellers to stop, explore and spend time and money in our town centres.

“We have been working with staff since late last year to explore how we could reopen the site in a more economical way while still delivering strong outcomes for the community.

“It’s great to now see that work paying off and this project moving forward.”

Division 3 Councillor John Collins said the unanimous 7–0 decision reflected the strong community support behind reopening the site.

“I’ve advocated strongly for the return of the RV Rest Stop because the community has been very clear that it works for Proserpine,” Cr Collins said.

“This is a win for our local business community, our tourism operators and the many volunteers who have worked hard to make visitors feel welcome here.

“Council’s unanimous 7-0 decision shows we’re united in backing projects that make a difference for Division 3 and for the broader Whitsundays.”

Under the plan endorsed at this week’s Ordinary Council Meeting, the Rest Stop will reopen in April 2026 with minor upgrades, improved signage, and a seasonal operating model designed to minimise wet-season maintenance.

Council will now move forward with the Development Approval amendment and finalise lease and operational arrangements ahead of the official reopening.

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The upgraded Proserpine RV Rest Stop will re-open in April next year. Photo supplied

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