30km Sewer Main & Infrastructure Set To Fast Track Growth

More than 6,250 new homes will be unlocked following a funding announcement of $53.5 million which is set to deliver three critical projects in the Burdekin electorate which encompasses Bowen and Collinsville. This project has been fast-tracked under the State Government’s landmark $2 billion Residential Activation Fund.

The Residential Activation Fund will deliver a $33 million boost towards the $35 million Build Bowen South – Utilities project which will deliver a brand new 30 kilometre sewer main, five new sewage pump stations, and the upgrade of existing infrastructure to support both greenfield and infill housing developments.

The fund will also deliver a $20 million boost towards the $30 million Elliot Springs Ridge Crossing and a $500,000 boost towards the Burdekin Housing Activation Planning project to unlock more land for housing in Ayr.

Holy Sh*T! - New Sewerage Main Works Funded

The $33 million sewerage connection announcement was made by Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie, at Whitsunday Paradise in Bowen on Wednesday morning.

“It is under the build Whitsundays programme, and it is a sewage connection to connect this part of Bowen and Whitsunday Regional Council right through including five new sewage treatment plants and connecting to the big sewerage treatment plant,” he said.

“That's a $33 million commitment, and unless that sewage is connected from this part to the other sewerage treatment plants, these developments would not proceed. So that is a partnership not only with the Whitsunday Council, the developer, but also the State government.

“As the Brisbane Lord Mayor said the other day, a sewerage pipeline is not a sexy announcement, but it's imperative, and without it, it ain't happening. You can't get the houses-built people need.

“Access to the sewage treatment plants when they build their homes is trunk infrastructure, it's got to happen and we're just pleased to be the government now delivering on behalf of regional Queensland.”

Minister for Natural Resources and Mines and Member for Burdekin Dale Last said the investment would deliver long-term benefits for local families and communities.

“The former Labor Government’s decade of decline left places like Bowen with zero residential vacancies, forcing teachers into caravan parks as the housing affordability crisis deepened. The Crisafulli Government is cutting through the barriers to keep families in our region and attract workers to support our community,” Minister Last said.

“By delivering this infrastructure, we’re making sure that housing supply in North Queensland keeps pace with population growth so that young people can afford to stay and raise a family here.

“This investment will unlock thousands of homes and give young families the certainty they need with a place to call home.

“Every new home means more tradie jobs, more business for local suppliers and more confidence in our region’s future.”

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the investment would unlock the next stage of growth for the Whitsundays providing backbone infrastructure to enable more than 960 dwellings over the next decade.

“This funding partnership ensures we can deliver the utilities that underpin liveable communities, support housing affordability, and help families put down roots in our region,” Mayor Collins said.

“We’re grateful to the Crisafulli Government, and to our local Member Dale Last, for recognising the pressing need for housing in the Whitsundays and backing Council’s efforts to deliver real solutions.

“It's going to be a fantastic partnership for the many years ahead and I thank you very much for your support.”

Mayor Ry Collins also said the Whitsundays is the fastest growing local government area in Regional Queensland and with that growth comes pressure in terms of housing, rentals and also infrastructure.

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Chairman of Bowen Collinsville Enterprise Paul Mclaughlin, Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins, Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP, Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie, Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort, and Joanne Shepherd from Bowen Chamber of Commerce. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie announcing the projects at Whitsunday Paradise in Bowen. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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In a heartwarming display of community spirit, the Horseshoe Bay Social Club has once again shown how powerful a group with purpose — and kindness — can be. The club recently donated $2000 to the Bowen Hospital, with the funds dedicated to the development of the hospital’s new oncology clinic.

The generous contribution was made possible through the ongoing efforts of club members, local supporters, and fundraising activities throughout the year. Committee members Max Martin and Perry proudly presented the donation to a representative of the Bowen Hospital Auxiliary, highlighting the strong relationship between the social club and local healthcare services.

The impact of such donations goes far beyond the financial. They represent what’s possible when people come together not just for social connection, but to make a real and lasting difference in the lives of others.

Social clubs like the one at Horseshoe Bay continue to prove that community is more than just geography — it’s shared values, compassion, and the willingness to lend a hand.

Well done to everyone who contributed to this fantastic result. The Bowen Hospital, and the community it serves, is all the better for it.

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This week, I travelled to Townsville with a couple of our team members to interview sporting legend Johnathan Thurston. Our Sales Manager, Trish, teed up the opportunity, and our journo, Daniel, was brave enough to step up and conduct the interview — which we recorded for our YouTube channel.

Upon arriving in Townsville, we were all excited — but definitely a little nervous. It’s not every day you get to meet an internationally recognised sports icon!

When we arrived at the JT Academy, we expected a bit of fanfare — maybe a receptionist, possibly an entourage. But instead, it was JT himself who opened the door, smiling and ready to greet us. No ego, no show — just a down-to-earth guy with a genuine presence.

From the moment we stepped inside, it was clear how passionate he is about the JT Academy, which he started in 2018 to support disadvantaged young people — especially those doing it tough — to create better futures.

Daniel did a fantastic job interviewing JT in a professional yet relaxed manner, and we all found it incredibly inspiring to hear the story of how the Academy evolved.

I think it’s especially admirable when someone who could have retired and simply lived off the success of their fame instead chooses to give back and make a real difference in communities. That’s why JT has now become even more of a hero to me.

You can read JT’s full story in the upcoming September/October issue of Core Magazine, and the full interview will be available on our YouTube channel once the magazine is out in print.

Big thanks to Trish for making it happen, and huge congrats to Daniel on another superstar interview.

Definitely a Townsville trip we’ll never forget.

– Rach

Quote of the Week:
“If you’re going to doubt something, doubt your limits.”
— Don Ward (shared on JT’s Facebook page)

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Just last week, a fire broke out at the Bowen Landfill located at 908 Bowen Developmental Road after a selection of used batteries were disposed of incorrectly.

It’s suspected the blaze was caused after a lithium-ion battery was wrongfully placed in the scrap metal pile at the dumping grounds. Lithium-ion batteries are highly hazardous if punctured, crushed or exposed to heat and pose a serious safety risk in instances like these when they’re not correctly disposed of.

Thankfully, the Bowen Delta Rural Fire Brigade’s swift response brought the blaze quickly under control. However, the Whitsunday Regional Council hopes the instance serves as a strong reminder of how improper disposal of batteries not only creates costly hazards and environmental risks but also endangers the safety of workers and the broader community.

Household batteries can be safely recycled through the Whitsunday Regional Council’s Household Battery Recycling Scheme at any of the official bins located at the Whitsunday Regional Council Customer Service Centres and Libraries, as well as at the Collinsville and Cannonvale Transfer Stations. Additional bins can also be found at community sites like Bunnings Warehouse.

Larger, more hazardous batteries like lead acid batteries can be disposed of at the Cannonvale Transfer Station, Collinsville Transfer Station, Bowen Landfill and Kelsey Creek Landfill, and mobile phones can be recycled at all Whitsunday Regional Council Libraries and Waste Facilities.

Additional details on the Whitsunday Regional Council’s Household Battery Recycling Scheme can be found online at www.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au.

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The fire was thankfully contained by the Bowen Delta Rural Fire Brigade. Photo Credit: Whitsunday Regional Council

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Police are appealing for public assistance to help locate a 42-year-old man missing from Bowen since 19 August.

Brett Breeze was last seen leaving a health facility at Gregory Street around 4.30pm on Tuesday and has not been seen since.

Brett is described as Caucasian, approximately 180cm tall, with a solid build, auburn hair and blue eyes.

Brett was last seen wearing a blue long sleeve fishing shirt, black shorts and sneakers with a dark coloured backpack.

Police and family hold concerns for his welfare as his disappearance is out of character.

Police are appealing to Brett, or anyone with information regarding his whereabouts, to come forward.

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Still overcome with gratitude, former Bowen local Lynn has decided to leave a lasting legacy to thank the hospital that saved her son’s life more than four decades ago.

Lynn and her husband George’s journey into parenthood was marked with heartbreak, having lost two babies to stillbirth. In August of 1979, they welcomed their third child, Mark, born five weeks premature and facing overwhelming odds. He entered the world with a rare combination of conditions – H-type fistula, hare lip and cleft palate – with survival chances estimated at over 30 million to one.

Within hours, Mark was rushed to the Prince of Wales Children’s Hospital Intensive Care Unit in Sydney, suffering severe respiratory distress. Doctors feared he wouldn’t survive and advised the family to consider an immediate baptism.

At just eight days old, Mark underwent his first surgery, followed by another just weeks later. The months ahead were fraught with complications – a collapsed lung, blocked airways, seizures and multiple resuscitations. Feeding was particularly difficult, and Mark required a gastrostomy tube and intravenous support.

Through each challenge, Lynn spent countless hours at her baby’s side, learning how to care for his fragile body. At four months old, surgeons repaired his lip and part of his palate, before further operations followed in his early years, including another cleft palate repair. With immense perseverance and care, Mark eventually began eating without assistance – a milestone Lynn describes as nothing short of miraculous.

Now, decades later, Lynn calls Mark her “miracle baby” and is ensuring her gratitude lives on. She has chosen to leave a gift in her will to Sydney Children’s Hospital, honouring the medical team who gave her family hope during their darkest days.

Lynn is sharing her story in support of the Fundraising Institute Australia’s Include a Charity Week from 1st to the 7th of September, which encourages Australians to leave a gift in their wills to causes close to their hearts.

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Lynn has decided to leave a charitable gift in her will to Sydney Children's Hospital, who saved Mark’s life (Photo Supplied)
Mark’s survival odds were 30 million to 1 but he made it home (Photo Supplied)

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The Bowen Visitor Information Centre has been officially recognised as the best in its category, taking out “Visitor Information Centre of the Year” at the Queensland Information Centre’s Association (QICA) Awards.

Three team members of Bowen Tourism and Business attended the annual QICA conference in Moreton Bay last week.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy, paid tribute to the entire team of staff, volunteers and committee.

She also thanked Whitsunday Regional Council for their support.

The Bowen Visitor Information Centre welcomed more than 56,000 visitors in the 2024/25 financial year – an average of 1083 per week.

“We were thrilled to accept this award on behalf of Bowen and the entire Whitsundays region. Most importantly, we thank our incredible team of volunteers, who are passionate, dedicated and always welcoming,” she said.

Chair of Bowen Tourism and Business, Jenn Honnery, said the recognition reflected the team’s commitment to providing outstanding customer service.

“They welcomed a record number of visitors in the past financial year – more than nine percent higher than the year before.

“This achievement shows the lasting value of face-to-face service, where a warm welcome, local knowledge, and personal connection make all the difference to a visitor’s experience.
“This award is recognition of the outstanding efforts and expertise of our entire team of staff and volunteers.”

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor, Ry Collins, described the award as a wonderful acknowledgment of the dedicated team behind the Bowen Visitor Information Centre.

"This win is all about the incredible staff and volunteers who go above and beyond every single day, and it’s their hard work and dedication that has put Bowen on the map as one of Queensland’s best visitor destinations,” Mayor Collins said.

“They are the friendly faces who greet our visitors, share their knowledge, and make sure everyone feels welcome. Their passion and pride for Bowen and the Whitsundays shines through in everything they do.

"From its stunning beaches to its rich history and vibrant community, Bowen really is a jewel of the Whitsundays.”

Tourism Whitsundays CEO, Tim Booth, also congratulated the Bowen team.

“A huge congratulations to Bowen on being named Visitor Information Centre of the Year. We’re so lucky to have such a welcoming and dedicated VIC as part of the Whitsundays region, and this award is well-deserved recognition of the passion and pride the Bowen team puts into showcasing our beautiful part of the world.”

Chairperson of the Bowen Chamber of Commerce, Jo Shepherd, echoed the praise, recognising the centre’s vital role in supporting the local economy.

“This award highlights the dedication of the Bowen Visitor Information Centre team in promoting our region and strengthening the business community we proudly represent.”

2025 QICA Award Winners
• VIC of the Year (Regional Tourism Organisation) – Glass House Mountains
• VIC of the Year (Local Tourism Organisation) – Bowen
• VIC of the Year (run entirely by volunteers) – Tewantin

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Bowen State School marked a major milestone on Saturday, celebrating its 160th birthday with a day full of pride, nostalgia, and community spirit. The event attracted a large crowd of past and present students, families, and staff, all gathering to honour the school’s rich history.

Among the special guests was Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox, a proud past student of the school. He was invited to lead the roll call, reading out the names of past students by decade from the 1930s to the present—an honour that connected generations of Bowen alumni.

One of the day’s most touching moments came during the cake-cutting ceremony. The school’s oldest known past student, Mrs Rogers—who also returned as a long-serving teacher—joined the two youngest current students to cut the commemorative cake.

A vibrant fair ran alongside the official proceedings, and the school hall featured an impressive memorabilia display, showcasing the school's legacy through photographs and artefacts.

The event was a fitting tribute to one of Queensland’s oldest schools and a celebration of its enduring place in the community.

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Fennell’s Floorworld has been recognised on the national stage, taking out the prestigious Rising Star Award at the National Flooring World Conference Awards Night held in Brisbane last Thursday.

Scott Fennell owner of Fennell’s Floorworld has been in the flooring industry for 40 years.

The award, which cannot be entered but is instead selected from among Floorworld head office following a strict criteria, came as a huge surprise to the Cannonvale and Bowen based business.

“We were jumping out of our skin when our name was called,” said Accounts Manager Natasha Saroglia. “It’s such an honour because it’s not something you apply for – you’re chosen, which makes it even more special.”

It was the first time Fennell’s Floorworld had been nominated at the national level, with the business also shortlisted for Queensland Store of the Year.

The Rising Star recognition comes off the back of significant growth for the business in recent years. Originally operating out of Cannonvale, Fennell’s has expanded its footprint with a store in Bowen, established to better service customers in the growing Whitsunday region.

The growth Fennell experienced not only saw them expand to new a location but also grow in terms of productivity.

“We were travelling to Bowen so often with our staff that it just made sense to open a permanent store there,” Natasha explained.

“It allows us to provide a more convenient service for local customers.”

The expansion has been matched by diversification in products and services. While the company has long been known for its flooring expertise, offering engineered timber, hybrid, laminate, carpet and vinyl planks it has recently added window furnishings to its range.

“In the last couple of months, we’ve introduced blinds and curtains, which has been really exciting,” Natasha said.

This provides customers with the option to finish their interiors with more than just flooring.

Fennell’s offers both supply-only and supply-and-install options, working with a team of full-time and subcontracted installers to ensure flexibility for customers.

“Some people want to do it themselves, while others prefer the full service, so we cater to both,” said Natasha.

Looking ahead, the team is focusing on building on its reputation for quality service and strong customer relationships rather than chasing rapid expansion.

“We’ve grown a lot over the past four years, but now it’s about perfecting what we do,” Natasha said.

“Our customers are at the centre of everything, and this award shows that the hard work is paying off.”

The Rising Star Award has cemented Fennell’s Floor world as a business on the rise, recognised not only in the Whitsundays but now across Australia.

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The winning team at Fennell's Floorworld. Photo supplied

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WILSON BEACH

The first Europeans to settle in the Lower Conway area were the Wilson family - Fred in 1905 and his wife, Catherine, and children, Beatrice and Fred, in 1908. A pioneer to the Saltwater Creek area, Fred had previously travelled around Queensland finding employment as a shearer, a drover, and a farm hand. The Wilson family cleared the land and initially concentrated on growing bananas. In 1913, they sent their first sugar cane to the mill as the tramline had, by then, been extended to the Conway / Preston area.

Wilson Beach was once referred to as Little Beach and Conway as Big Beach but when subdivision and development took place in the area, official names were proposed. Hence, we now have Wilson Beach and Conway Beach. (Conway Beach was originally known as Preston Beach).

Circa 1911, the local families, the “Prestonites”, held a picnic at the mouth of the Proserpine River. In those times, access to Little Beach was by boat from Saltwater Creek to the mouth of the river and then by foot along the beach or by using the rough track cut out by the farmers using hand axes, mattocks, horses and plenty of blood, sweat and tears.

In 1942, Harry and Ruby Davison owned the area now known as Wilson Beach. They had built their family home on the beach front and there they raised nine children. Sadly, the house had to be demolished after Cyclone Debbie, however, their name lives on in Davison Road. Hall Drive is named after another early settler, Arthur Hall, whose house was along the beach from Davison’s.

The “Proserpine Guardian” January 13, 1961 reported, “Master Beames, from Brisbane, is visiting Little Beach during the Christmas vacation as a guest of the Davison family. Other visitors during the holidays included Mr and Mrs E Grimstone and Lyn, Miss G Carne, Mr and Mrs C. Hiscox and family, Mr and Mrs J. Jackson and M. King and family from Mackay who were camped on the beach. The road, now bitumened, is quite good, although the sides are very soft and cars are apt to skid or sink down when passing or overtaking.”

In the late 1950s, local residents and the visiting holiday makers had expressed that a swimming enclosure was needed, as there was no safe place for the children to swim. There were stingers in the sea and the water flow at Cedar Creek falls was unreliable. So, many locals hand cut posts from the bush and the wire was donated. The community kept the enclosure in good repair. Each year, the wire was replaced before the start of the stinger season. And before the tide came in, the enclosure was always checked to make sure there was nothing dangerous trapped in there. Damage to the enclosure from Cyclone Debbie made the enclosure unusable however it has recently been rebuilt by the council.

Wilson Beach has grown into a beautiful, peaceful, secluded seaside settlement with magnificent sunsets: a place where families love to spend holidays. The community should be proud of the strong community spirit which has been passed down through the generations since the days of the early settlers.

Story and photo courtesy of Proserpine Historical Museum

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What a month it's been for The Whitsundays! August delivered a packed calendar that brought our region alive with visitors and competitors from across Australia.

The action kicked off with the 74 Islands Distillery Airlie Beach Race Week from 7-14 August. For six days, colourful sails dotted our waters while Airlie Beach buzzed with evening entertainment.

Athletes then took centre stage at the Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival on 17 August. The popular North Queensland event saw competitors of all ages tackle the challenging course against our stunning coastal backdrop.

August's finale was the milestone 40th Hamilton Island Race Week, presented by American Express, from 19-23 August. This special anniversary year combined world-class sailing with the exciting Trans-Tasman 49ers Exhibition Series, offering locals and visitors a taste of Olympic-level competition ahead of Brisbane 2032.

Local tourism operators experienced strong visitor numbers throughout the month, with hotels, restaurants and tour operators all benefiting from the busy schedule. The successful run of events proves once again that our region can handle major competitions while showcasing everything The Whitsundays has to offer.

From racing yachts to finish-line celebrations, August reminded everyone why The Whitsundays remains one of Australia's most sought-after destinations.

Contributed with thanks to Tourism Whitsundays

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Airlie Beach Race Week drew in a huge crowd. Photo credit: Andrea Francolini

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Time is running out to apply for the Whitsunday Business Awards 2025, the region’s premier celebration of business excellence. Applications close 11:59pm, Sunday 7 September 2025 – don’t miss your chance to be recognised.

The Awards celebrate outstanding achievements, leadership, innovation, and resilience across the Whitsunday business community.

A collaboration between the Bowen Chamber of Commerce, the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Whitsunday Regional Council, the program is judged by respected regional experts.

Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine is proud to come onboard as this year’s Principal Partner.

“Local businesses are at the heart of our community. They support families, employ locals, and make the Whitsundays an even better place to live and work. We’re proud to partner with the 2025 Whitsunday Business Awards because celebrating business excellence is about celebrating the future of our region” said Mark Henry, Chair of Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine.

One of the flagship categories, the Regional Game Changer Award, recognises businesses fuelling economic growth, innovation, and community prosperity.

TAFE Queensland will present the Trailblazing Young Entrepreneur Award, celebrating rising stars under 25.

"Working alongside industry and Queensland communities is at the heart of everything we do at TAFE Queensland," said Susan Kinobe, TAFE Queensland North General Manager. “Sponsoring this award is a chance to celebrate local business excellence and the young leaders shaping the future of the Whitsunday region.”

The Small Business Hero Award recognises sole traders and small businesses making a big impact through ambition, innovation, and resilience.

Finally, the Community Champion Award, sponsored by the Rotary Club of Airlie Beach, celebrates businesses that give back to the community.

"This award reflects Rotary’s dedication to community service, finding ways to improve the quality of life for people in their communities and to serve the public interest. It aligns with the commitment of members to use their professional skills and expertise to serve the community, promote ethical practices, and inspire others," the Club said.

Don’t miss this opportunity to put your business in the spotlight.

Visit the Award website: https://bit.ly/whitsundayba

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Reliable roads and bridges are the backbone of our regional economy. They keep our cane farmers, graziers and local residents connected, and ensure produce, livestock and equipment can move when and where they need to.

In recent years, weight restrictions on Kelsey Creek Bridges 2 and 3 have made life more complicated for those who depend on them most. For primary producers, especially during the busy sugar crushing season, these restrictions have meant longer trips and more logistical challenges when moving heavy vehicles, machinery and goods.

That’s why I’m very pleased to share that this project has now been prioritised, and funding is secured to deliver a long-term solution. Council has successfully secured more than $4.5 million through the Australian Government’s Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program, which will cover 80 per cent of the $5.6 million project cost.

On top of this, Council has committed further funding through the Transport Infrastructure Development Scheme to enable heavy vehicle bypasses to be fast-tracked while the permanent replacements are designed and constructed.

These bypasses will provide bed level crossings in waterways to comply with fisheries requirements and be built to a dry-weather standard and will immediately ease pressure on farmers and transport operators by creating alternate access for heavy vehicles. Officers are still to determine the ultimate alignment for the new bridges and detour options for all vehicles during construction.

I want to acknowledge the strong advocacy of Divisional Councillors John Collins and Gary Simpson, who have worked tirelessly to ensure this project was elevated as a priority. Both Councillors have been strong voices for their communities and have pushed hard to make sure local farmers, graziers and residents get the infrastructure they need. Their commitment has played a key role in helping Council secure the funding and drive this project forward.

This project simply would not have been possible without the support of the Australian Federal Government. Their recognition of the importance of this investment and willingness to commit significant funding has made it possible for Council to get on with the job. On behalf of our community, I sincerely thank the Federal Government for backing the Whitsundays and our rural industries.

I also want to thank local landholders for working with Council officers to help identify practical bypass options. Their recent cooperation and input have been invaluable in making sure we can move quickly and effectively.

Council’s focus is now on delivery. By prioritising this project and empowering our officers to take the necessary steps, we’re making sure the solutions are implemented as soon as possible.

This project will bring real benefits to our rural industries and communities, not just for today but for decades to come. It’s a clear sign of our commitment to practical infrastructure that supports the people who drive our local economy.

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September is Rural Road Safety Month, a timely reminder to take extra care on our rural roads. Almost two in every three road deaths occur on rural roads, where long distances, isolation and tough conditions increase the risks. Every trip matters, whether it’s to work, school, or visiting loved ones. By slowing down, staying alert and driving with care, we can all help prevent tragedy and keep our community safe.

Find out more at the Australian Road Safety Foundation’s website: www.arsf.com.au/rural-road-safety-month

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The spectacular Whitsunday venue Elementa Whitsundays has been honoured with a prestigious award for Tourism and Leisure Facilities at the Master Builders Mackay and Whitsunday Housing & Construction Awards. It has cemented the venue as one of Airlie Beach’s most exciting destinations for visitors and locals alike.

The award recognises the vision and dedication behind the hilltop development overlooking the Coral Sea, a project that began as a bold idea more than a decade ago and has since grown into a landmark attraction.

Glenn Hitch said the award was a testament to the craftsmanship and teamwork of all involved in bringing the project to life.

Elementa Whitsundays Highlights The Very Best
Of Airlie Beach And The Whitsundays

Although the vision was clear from the outset, turning it into reality required persistence and collaboration.

“The challenge was getting the idea in my head to be just as clear for everyone else,” Glenn explained. “But I had a lot of help and input from other people. It wasn’t just me, it was a real team effort.”

Among those acknowledged were Cumberland Homes as the principal contractor, along with Gangemi Cabinet Makers, Coastal Brush Painters, Holly Gardner Interior Design, Adfab Industries, Shellco, Andy Manners, and George and Bare Tiling. Each played a role in shaping the award-winning venue into what it is today.

The development first began in 2006 with the purchase of the land, which sat untouched for a decade before the first stage of accommodation was built in 2017.

From the beginning, the goal was to create more than just a place to stay; it was about building something that would be a primary reason for visitors to choose Airlie Beach for weddings, corporate events, and unique Whitsunday experiences.

“We're really proud to win this award, because this is what this building is for, it’s to bring tourists into the town, and that's what it's about,” exclaimed Glenn.

“We're not bringing Melbourne or Sydney to Airlie Beach; we are about showcasing the Whitsundays. So hence the view, hence the gin, hence our menu. Everything is reflecting what the Whitsundays has to offer, and we're doing it in an elevated way.”

In addition to its event spaces, the venue has expanded its offerings to include a distillery, with spirits crafted using locally sourced ingredients, including Whitsunday rainwater. The unique addition, which came during the build, required changes to the original plans but has since become a defining feature.

Glenn said the idea was to capture the Whitsundays not just in the venue, but in their spirits too.

“And we’re having a lot of fun with it,” he said.

Community has also been at the heart of the business, with the venue sponsoring local events such as Race Week and the Airlie Beach Festival of Music.

Glenn said supporting locals is vital to their business. “We’re a community-based business, and we want to see the community do well.”

“Our local clientele are also very important. The second part of that is, if you start to bring in weddings or events from out of town, that will also employ more local businesses, because they're subsidiary to what we do.

Essentially, we're a venue, a distillery, and we're accommodation. But wedding planning, and all these types of events, the more active we are, the better it's going to be for other local businesses

“The more people that come through the doors, everyone wins.”

While originally operating solely as an event venue, the team has gradually opened its doors to the public for ticketed experiences, with 74 Islands Cocktail Club on Friday evenings and an exciting new signature dining series in development.

From award-winning design to a growing reputation as a premier Whitsunday destination, Elementa Whitsundays' future is bright.

And with this latest accolade, the team behind it can take pride in knowing they’ve not only created a world-class facility but also a place that will continue to bring new energy and visitors to Airlie Beach for years to come.

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