The family of Jo McGregor sadly announced her passing over the weekend, the much-loved local passing away peacefully and surrounded by love following a brave and lengthy battle with cancer.

Known for her incredible kindness, her community work, and friendly personality, Jo will be deeply missed by her many friends—and especially by her family, including husband Shane and their sons Jordan and Jay.

Jo’s family posted this message:

“After a long and courageous battle with cancer, we are heartbroken to share that our beloved Jo passed away on Saturday, June 29th. Surrounded by her loved ones—a reflection of the life she lived.

Jo was a cherished part of our community. Her warmth, generosity, and sense of humour touched the lives of so many. Whether it was lending a hand, offering a kind word, or showing up when it mattered most, Jo was always there.”

A close friend has since set up a GoFundMe to help ease the financial burden on her family as they navigate this incredibly difficult time.

The funds raised will go directly toward covering Jo’s funeral costs and related expenses, allowing her loved ones to focus on grieving and honouring her memory without added financial stress.

“Any contribution, no matter the size, would mean so much. If you’re unable to donate, please consider sharing this page with others who knew and loved Jo.

Let’s come together to support the family as they celebrate Jo’s beautiful life and say goodbye.”

So far, the GoFundMe page has raised over $17,000 toward its goal of $20,000.

Thoughts and prayers are with Jo’s family and close friends. As they navigate this challenging time, the arms of the whole community are wrapped around them.

‍

Jo and her husband attending the Show Ball earlier this year. Photo credit: Brooke Miles
Jo and her sons Jordan and Jay: Photo supplied

‍

For many small to medium business owners, staying competitive means keeping productivity high — and that often comes down to having the right tools for the job. Whether it’s updating outdated machinery or investing in new technology, equipment upgrades can make a big difference.

But before asking what to buy, the better question is why, says Luke Sheppard, Senior Business Relationship Manager – North Central Queensland at Bendigo Bank.

“Delivering high-quality products and services is one of the best ways to stay ahead of your competition,” Luke explains. “Upgrading equipment that’s outdated or reaching end-of-life can help boost efficiency, reduce costly downtime, and improve the customer experience — but we know it’s not always an easy decision.”

**Don’t Go It Alone: Why Expert Advice Matters

Many businesses dip into cash reserves when it’s time to purchase equipment. While that may seem like a simple solution, it can put pressure on working capital and expose the business to long-term financial strain.

“This is where expert support can make a big difference,” Luke says. “At Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine, we bring together a team of specialists to help business owners understand their current and future needs. By working with us, you’ll know your options, manage operational risk, and keep your cash flow healthy.”

Not all banks take this personalised approach — but at Bendigo Bank, it’s what we believe every business owner deserves.

***Tailored Finance Options to Suit Your Business

Bendigo Bank offers a range of flexible equipment finance solutions designed to meet your unique needs:

• Equipment loan – Purchase an asset outright, using the equipment as security for the loan.
• Finance lease – The bank buys and owns the asset, leasing it to you for a set term. You can make an offer to buy it at the end.
• Asset purchase – Own the asset from the outset, with repayments over time. Ownership transfers to you once the loan is fully paid.
• Novated lease – Ideal for employee vehicles as part of a salary package, with payments deducted from pre-tax salary.

And it’s not just about cars or machinery. “From laptops and servers to specialist medical gear, we can help finance a wide range of equipment,” Luke says. “It’s worth having a conversation with your relationship banker to find out what’s possible.”

**Let’s Talk Business

Whether you’re expanding, upgrading, or just starting to explore your options, our local business banking team is here to help.

Make a face-to-face appointment with Luke Sheppard at the Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine Branch by calling (07) 4948 3599 or emailing cannonvale&proserpinemailbox@bendigoadelaide.com.au

Last chance to hear from one of Australia’s most respected economic voices

David Robertson, Chief Economist at Bendigo Bank, is heading to Proserpine on Friday 11 July for a special community event – and everyone’s invited.

Known for his ability to make complex economic trends easy to understand, David’s engaging and down-to-earth style has earned him a strong following.

Hosted by Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine, this is a rare opportunity to hear firsthand from a leading expert about the financial forces shaping our country—and what it could all mean for local families, businesses, and the Whitsundays region.

What: Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine Chief Economist event

When: 7:30am-9am Friday 11 July 2025

Where: Filby’s Motors, 62 Main Street, Proserpine

Registration: Free event, open to all. RSVP to secretary@whitsundaycel.com.au

Bendigo Bank – the better big bank.

(Terms and conditions, fees, charges and lending criteria apply.)

‍

The Branch and Business Banking team at Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine
Luke Sheppard, Senior Business Relationship Manager – North Central Queensland at Bendigo Bank

‍

A father of three was in Airlie Beach recently with his family when he stopped to talk to a fellow German, a young backpacker who was travelling the country.

Having lived in the Whitsundays for many years and built a life here, the father enjoyed speaking in his native tongue and hearing about the young man's adventures.

After a few minutes, the backpacker divulged that he was a little stuck because he had just run out of money and was unable to put fuel in his vehicle to get to the next location.

A religious man, the Whitsunday local said a quick prayer to his God and received an instant response.

He was told to go to the ATM, withdraw $50, and give it to the young traveller.

Without question, he did what he felt called to do and presented the backpacker with the bright yellow fifty-dollar note.

Startled, the young man refused to take the money at first, saying he could not accept charity. But the Whitsunday local insisted, and once he saw the genuine nature of the offer, it was graciously accepted.

This story was recounted at the Whitsunday Baptist Church on Sunday morning and, regardless of your religion, it is a lovely example of how God can move through you in everyday life.

‍

It’s no secret that life on the water underpins the fundamentals of the Airlie Beach community in more ways than geographical, and this July, the Coral Sea Marina will host a memorable celebration for those who love the Airlie Beach lifestyle!

The Better Boating Expo will be held on Friday, the 11th of July, from 10am through to 2pm at the marina to promote better boating practices, including sustainability, the protection of the Great Barrier Reef and the local marine environment, and basic safety whilst on the water.

Aligning with the winter school holiday period, the event hopes to provide families with an enjoyable opportunity to learn and celebrate all things water and boating.

“The goal of the expo is to provide a family-friendly community event, with interactive demonstrations and educational content designed to promote better boating practices, not only to boat owners but to any visitor to the region looking to get out and explore on the water,” explained Coral Sea Marina’s Brand Experience Manager, Roxanne Bowden.

“This would include safety at sea, responsible reef practices, ways to minimise the environmental impact of tourism or boating activities, and to consciously connect more people to the environment.”

Passionate Great Barrier Reef experts will also be in attendance at the expo, leading discussions and workshops focusing on topics like tips and tricks for sustainability, life raft and safety flare demonstrations, knot tying and splicing, Whales of the Whitsundays, and fire equipment training.

Additional information stands and presentations include Queensland Parks and Wildlife, Volunteer Marine Rescue Whitsundays, Maritime Safety Queensland, Tangaroa Blue, Whales of the Whitsundays, Whitsunday Maritime Training Centre, Water Police, Airlie Beach Swim School, plus many more!

With so many opportunities to learn, the expo will also host a kids’ colouring competition, and a delicious ice cream van and face painting station will be operating throughout the day, serving up plenty of fun and smiles right into the afternoon! Save the date!

WHAT: Better Boating Expo
WHERE: Coral Sea Marina
WHEN: Friday 11th July

‍

The Better Boating Expo is on next Friday at the Coral Sea Marina. Photo supplied

‍

Set high above the Coral Sea on Mount Whitsunday, Elementa Whitsundays, together with its on-site artisan gin and vodka maker 74 Islands Distillery, is transforming how locals and visitors experience dining, connection, and celebration in Airlie Beach.

Now open to the public for walk-in evenings and exclusive daytime events, Elementa offers something rare: a venue that fuses world-class culinary experiences with panoramic views, small-batch spirits, and the effortless luxury of the tropics.

From daytime distillery lunches to twilight cocktails under the stars, every gathering at Elementa is designed to feel special and unmistakably local.

TASTE OF 74 LUNCH
Cruise Ship Days (Open to All) | 12-2pm

Created for guests short on time but big on flavour, Taste of 74 is a curated two-hour experience that blends regional produce, local distilling, and coastal elegance into one unforgettable lunch.

Hosted on cruise ship days and open to everyone, guests are transported via return transfers from Airlie Beach Lagoon. On arrival, you’re welcomed with cocktails and canapés on the rooftop, followed by a guided tasting comparing spirits made with ultra-pure Whitsundays rainwater versus reverse osmosis - an experience that never fails to spark conversation.

Lunch features a selection of woodfired pizzas highlighting local produce, ending on a sweet note with house-made dessert and limoncello handcrafted onsite.

74 ISLANDS COCKTAIL CLUB
Fridays | 5pm-late

Fridays at Elementa are designed to surprise and delight.

The 74 Islands Cocktail Club is a weekly ritual for the curious, the intrepid, and the lovers of something a little different. Each week features a signature cocktail revealed only on the night, a rotating showstopper pizza (think hot-smoked crocodile with pickled torch ginger from the Elementa garden), and live entertainment curated by Total Entertainment.

With seasonal ingredients from trusted local providers Fish D’vine, Master Butcher Whitsundays, and Prickly Pineapple, the menu changes weekly - so no two nights are ever the same.

Bookings for Taste of 74 & the 74 Islands Cocktail Club are essential via Airlie Events.

74 ISLANDS CELLAR DOOR
Every Thursday | 4–8pm

Thursdays are your invitation to drop in, slow down, and savour something special.

At the 74 Islands Cellar Door, guests enjoy complimentary tastings of handcrafted gin and vodka, wood-fired pizzas for sale, and access to exclusive bottle pricing - 20% off all spirits.

For the perfect after-work ritual, the Sundowner Pack includes two wood-fired pizzas, your choice of 74 Islands gin or vodka, and two premium mixers - for just $99. Dine in with a view or take it to go.

COMING SOON:
THE 'ART OF THE CRAFT' MASTERCLASSES

Monthly ticketed gin blending workshops are on the horizon - where guests will learn the secrets of distillation and craft their own bespoke spirit to take home.

Every Dish.  Every Drop.  Every Detail - Local.
Elementa Whitsundays and 74 Islands Distillery aren’t just about food and drink - they’re about celebrating place, craft, and community. Whether you’re dropping in for a casual pizza, toasting something special, or discovering the art of gin, one thing is certain: you’ll leave with a taste of the Whitsundays that lingers.

Elementa Whitsundays, the home of 74 Islands Distillery
24-26 Mount Whitsunday Drive, Airlie Beach

‍

The Whitsundays is now the fastest growing local government area in regional Queensland, a reflection of our region’s economic strength, lifestyle appeal, and the confidence people have in our future.

But with growth comes challenge, and one of the most pressing is housing. Vacancy rates have remained under 2 per cent since 2020, and in some towns, they’ve hit 0 per cent during peak times. That puts real pressure on local families, limits job opportunities, and makes it harder for new workers to settle here.

Council is tackling this head-on through our Local Housing Action Plan, and I’m proud to say we’re making real progress. This year we’ve seen a strong increase in development activity and we’re currently progressing amendments to our planning scheme to better manage short-term accommodation.

We’ve supported new community housing projects in both Bowen and Proserpine, advocated for funding for 160 additional social homes, and delivered a capital works budget for 2025–26 that will invest $114 million in critical infrastructure.

That includes $14 million for a new landfill cell in Bowen, $24 million in water and sewerage upgrades, and $36 million in road improvements and recovery works.

We’re also pushing hard for major external funding through the Queensland Government’s new Residential Activation Fund. Our $50 million ‘Build Whitsundays’ pitch includes three priority projects, Bowen South, Cannon Valley and Proserpine, that would fast-track water and sewerage infrastructure to unlock over 4,000 future homes. If successful, we expect more than 570 of those homes to be built by 2028.

Of course, housing is about more than just construction, it’s about building complete, connected communities. That’s why we’ve continued to advance major precinct planning across the region this year, including the Collinsville Community Hub, Bowen Foreshore, and Airlie Beach town centre.

And at our June Ordinary Council meeting we formally adopted Whitsunday 2030, our new Economic Development Strategy. It sets a clear vision for how we support industry, attract investment, and ensure that the Whitsundays remains a great place to live, work and grow.

There’s more work to do, but our direction is clear—and we’re building a stronger, smarter Whitsundays for the future.

‍

After four years of early mornings and unpredictable weather of Saturday markets, Shorelines Collection has found a new home.

The local candle making business is now open at their new address, Shop 4, 1 Carlo Drive, and has been quietly operating from the delightful space for six months now.

The new studio is a tranquil, coastal-inspired retail and production space where hand-pour soy candles and diffusers which are made on-site using Australian fragrance oils and natural soy waxes. The store also features unique gift ideas, many of which are unavailable elsewhere in town. Upon entry to the new studio, shoppers are met with an uplifting aroma that inspires the senses and refreshes the soul.

The business was founded by two young sisters who, during COVID-19, decided to try something creative and productive. The girl's mother, Susan Butler, soon got involved and the trio enjoyed many happy times making candles together. This experience inspired Susan to reconnect with her own creative passions and the broader business blossomed from there. They began small, selling at the Lions Airlie Beach Community Markets and building a loyal customer base who kept coming back for their clean-burning candles and signature scents.

Susan has taken over the business as her daughters have taken a step back and she absolutely loves it.

Today, the studio's signature scents include Coconut & Lemongrass, Sea Salt & Driftwood, Kakadu Plum, and Pear & Guava, but there are so much more and they are even open to requests.

Each candle is thoughtfully presented, with embellishments such as shells or flowers to match the fragrance and reflect the coastal aesthetic or the earthy notes.

Shorelines Collection's main focus is on sustainability.

“We can refill most of our vessels, and if people prefer not to, pretty much everything we offer can be reused or repurposed as we primarily use homewares rather than traditional candle jars,” said Susan.

“Instead, we try to use planters, food grade bowls, or other decorative pieces.

“Because of this, most of our products are limited edition too.”

Most eye-catching and notable in the store are the Coco Husk Candles in Coconut & Lemongrass, or Citronella & Lemongrass scents. The Shorelines Collection team gather coconuts from the local area, cut them in half and let their chickens and bush turkeys eat out the flesh. Once they are cleaned and sealed, these husks make unique, lightweight candles, perfect for your own home or as gifts for loved ones.

Coming up next Shorelines Collection are working on introducing candle-making workshops.

“We’ve had some great feedback and will likely launch those after the school holidays," shares Susan.

“People will get to take home something they’ve made and hopefully fall in love with the process.”

Open Monday to Friday from 11am to 3pm or by appointment, the Shorelines Collection is ready to welcome locals and visitors alike.

“So many people tell me they didn’t know we were here,” said Susan.

“Now that we’ve got our website and socials up, it’s time to spread the word and invite people in.”

‍

Shorelines Collection now have a shop address at Shop 4, 1 Carlo Drive. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

‍

New Doctor Returns To Region

After years of adventure and travel across Australia, Dr Mohammad Tafakorian is set to return to the Whitsundays this August, joining the team at Barefoot Medicine Whitsundays.

Dr Mohammad is no stranger to the region, having previously spent four years working and living in the Whitsundays before a stint in New South Wales. Now, he’s eager to return to the place he describes as his hometown.

“I feel like Airlie Beach is my hometown, I believe it’s my home, I feel safe and I was welcomed by most of the locals,” he said.

“They looked after me like a member of the society, people looked after me like they look after their families.”

His return marks not only a professional move but also a deeply personal one. He is looking forward to reconnecting with many of the patients he treated during his previous time in the area, some of whom he considers like family.

“I'm living the life of any single one of my patients”

“Whatever they go through I am with them.

“If they are happy, they make my days. If they are down, I do my best to bring them up.”

Dr Mohammad brings a wealth of experience with him. He is a GP specialist with advanced certificates in chronic disease management, women’s health, and skin cancer diagnosis and surgery.

In addition to his clinical work, he’s passionate about education. He is certified to supervise GP registrars and overseas-trained doctors, and is currently updating his qualifications to meet Queensland’s state-specific requirements.

But amongst his qualifications he said he has learned the most from his patients. Dr Mohammad was born in Iran and he said his patients have taught him how to live in Australia.

“I know how to go camping, I know how to go fishing, and I learned all of this from my patients,” said Dr Mohammad.

“They give me my experiences. They tell me wrong choices they’ve made and the good choices!

“Working as a GP is very rewarding from this point of view.”

Dr Mohammad returns to the Whitsundays in August 2025 at Barefoot Medicine Whitsundays. You can book appointments now through Hot Doc.

Barefoot Medicine Whitsundays
Unit 6/1 Carlo Drive, Cannonvale Qld 4802
Phone: 1300 086 857

‍

Dr Mohammad Tafakorian is looking forward to his return to the Whitsundays at Barefoot Medicine.

He's arriving August 2nd.

Photos supplied

‍

Tourism Whitsundays has confirmed that its accredited Visitor Information Centre in Proserpine will close at the beginning of the new financial year. The decision comes after a comprehensive review of visitor servicing strategies in response to evolving traveller habits and an increasingly digital tourism landscape.

In the 2022/23 financial year, the Proserpine Visitor Information Centre welcomed just under 6,000 visitors. However, visitation has declined by more than 20% this year, with only 3,900 people stopping by to date.

While the closure represents a shift in approach, Tourism Whitsundays is focused on new opportunities to connect with travellers.

A Tourism Whitsundays statement said that the organisation will continue to have a strong presence at key trade and consumer events, expand its successful volunteer cruise ambassador program, and work in close collaboration with Bowen Tourism and Business to maintain high-quality visitor experiences.

Visitors to the region will still have access to accredited in-person support, with Bowen’s Visitor Information Centre, at The Big Mango, playing a significant role.

This move is anticipated to boost traffic to Bowen and further establish it as the main hub for face-to-face visitor information services in the region.

Tim Booth, CEO, Tourism Whitsundays said the decision to close the Visitor Information Centre was not taken lightly, but it reflects the need to evolve how Tourism Whitsundays support and engage with visitors.

“As travel habits continue to shift, it’s essential we adapt to ensure our region remains competitive and welcoming,” said CEO Tim Booth.

“We’re excited to strengthen our partnership with Bowen Tourism and Business, and together our focus remains on delivering exceptional visitor experiences and exploring new, innovative ways to connect with visitors across all touchpoints."

‍

The Visitor Information Centre in Proserpine

Dea Huvonen from Tourism Whitsundays was the friendly face who welcomed travellers at the Visitor Information Centre

Photos supplied

‍

Administration Assistant Nicole Pascall

Tourism Whitsundays has welcomed a new Administration Assistant, Nicole Pascall. She brings a deep love for the region and a strong commitment to the local community.

Having first fallen in love with the Whitsundays back in 2012, she and her family made the move back in 2022 to raise their children in the laidback lifestyle and welcoming atmosphere that the region is known for.

In her new role, Nicole is most excited about learning new skills, gaining valuable experience, expanding her knowledge in the tourism sector and working alongside a passionate team that shares her enthusiasm for the Whitsundays.

Nicole has thoroughly enjoyed her time with Tourism Whitsundays so far and her story is a reminder of the unique charm the Whitsundays holds not just for visitors, but for those lucky enough to call it home.

Contributed with thanks to Nicole Pascall, Administration Assistant, Tourism Whitsundays

‍

It’s been one year since JP Afflick and Adam Zakharoff breathed new life into what was the very first Hog's Breath Café in Australia, right here in the Whitsundays.

Located in the heart of Airlie Beach, the business duo say they are proud of what they have achieved this year and are ready to celebrate.

On Friday 4 July 5-8pm everybody is invited to join a relaxed night with the usual laid-back atmosphere, familiar faces, and a chance to raise a glass.

Celebrate with JP and Adam as they proudly look at all they've achieved for the business over the last year.

JP owned Byron Bay Hog's Breath Café from 1997 to 2001 and when he was offered the opportunity to revamp Hog’s Breath’s first ever restaurant, he couldn't resist.

Since JP and Adam’s arrival they have returned to hospitality to basics - highlighting quality, casual dining and friendly service.

“Hospitality’s gone full circle. People want to relax, have some good service, eat well, and enjoy themselves,” JP said.

“We’re just running it like we did in 2000.”

Since taking over the Hog's Breath, the new owners have been met with praise but JP says this evening is about saying thank you to all the locals and customers who have visited in the last year.

The evening will feature live music, free nibbles, drink specials, and plenty of laughs. It also coincides with Hogs Breath Café’s 35th birthday, doubling the celebration.

Whether you’re a longtime supporter or a first-time visitor, the party is the perfect excuse to kick back, soak up some good vibes, and raise a glass to a successful year.

‍

Australia's Original Hog's Breath is celebrating its one year under new ownership this Friday 4 July at 5pm. Photo sourced: Facebook

‍

Ocean Rafting Acquires Hamilton Island Water Sports.

In a heartfelt continuation of local legacy, Ocean Rafting is proud to announce its acquisition of Hamilton Island Water Sports, bringing together two well-loved, family-owned businesses in the Whitsundays.

This exciting new chapter sees the transition of ownership from one passionate local family to another, with both businesses sharing deep roots in the region and a commitment to delivering world-class, water-based experiences while supporting the local community and environment.

“It’s an honour to take the reins from another family who has poured so much heart into this business,” said Peter Claxton - Owner at Ocean Rafting. “We share the same values—local knowledge, personalised service, and unforgettable adventures. This move allows us to continue their great work while enhancing our offerings in the Whitsundays.”

Hamilton Island Watersports has long been a favourite for visitors to the island, offering day tours around the Whitsunday islands, fishing charters, jet boating, and more. The acquisition will allow Ocean Rafting to expand its product range and footprint in the region while maintaining the fun, friendly, and safety-focused Ocean Rafting is known for.

“After arriving on Hamilton Island in 1986 aboard a yacht following three years sailing the South Pacific, our family established Hamilton Island Watersports,” said Andrew Harvey, former owner.

“Over the past 38 years, we’ve had the privilege of sharing the stunning Whitsundays with thousands of visitors through our Reef Ryder tours, jet boat adventures, fishing charters and watersports.

“It’s now time to pass the wheel to the Claxton family, and we couldn’t be more delighted. Their passion for tourism mirrors our own, and we’re confident they will continue delivering unforgettable experiences to guests for years to come.”

“Hamilton Island Water Sports has long been a much-loved part of the island experience, and we extend our sincere thanks to the Harvey family for their passion and commitment over the years,” said David Boyd, General Manager of Retail, Activities and Marina at Hamilton Island.

“It’s fitting to see the business pass to another local family-owned operator in Ocean Rafting, whose reputation for delivering safe, sustainable and memorable adventures is second to none. We’re confident they’ll honour that legacy while bringing fresh ideas and new opportunities for guests to experience Australia’s beautiful Whitsundays and the heart of the Reef."

"We’re delighted to welcome Ocean Rafting to our island community."

Guests can expect business as usual for now, with the same friendly faces and high-quality experiences, as Ocean Rafting gradually integrates new and signature offerings and upgrades to enhance the adventure.

Ocean Rafting is a multi-award-winning tourism operator, recognised as a Best of Queensland Experience and a Quality Tourism Accredited Business. With 28 years of accolades and 25 years of Advanced Ecotourism Certification, it’s also a Hall of Fame Ecotourism Australia member and Green Travel Leader. Ocean Rafting is the only Whitsundays operator with six Master Reef Guides, alongside marine biologists and eco hosts. Offering two thrilling day tours—Northern Exposure and Southern Lights—plus Fly Raft packages, charters, and education programs, guests enjoy an exhilarating ride on semi-rigid inflatable vessels with small group sizes for a truly personal Whitsundays adventure.

‍

Claxtons and Harveys on Reef Ryder. Photo supplied

‍

Sparking Powerful Conversations On Mental Health

Almost 140 people attended the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network’s (WSPN) Legends Night and over $25,000 was raised.

President of WSPN Matt Stokes said the event was a huge success, not just because of the money raised, but the response he has had from the community.

He said many people have come to him to express that they had a wonderful time at the event.

On the night, WSPN invited several inspiring speakers to address the audience.

Ray Thompson ex NRL Cowboys player talked about his personal challenges during and after his rugby career, but he also talked about practising gratitude and empathy. He then explained that practising these two will eventually lead to inner joy, feeling happier and being more optimistic.

Jay Shipston from Triple M talked candidly about his own experience with suicide, about what he was going through but ultimately about how suicide impacts friends, family and the community around you.

Bowen community member Lisa Cocker inspired the room with her passionate story telling, as she spoke about her sister who sadly took her own life. Her broader message highlighted the power in kindness and how we can all share love.

Nick Farr-Jones former Wallaby captain and World Cup winner spoke about a broad range of things including an eye-opening statistic that in Australia one person every eight minutes attempts suicide.
More positively he spoke about his time volunteering. If he feels down, he volunteers to help other people, and it lifts him up.

WSPN’s mission is to end the stigma around mental health and Matt Stokes says the worst thing to do is to say nothing.

“We all choose to say nothing and pretend it doesn't happen, whereas we all need to be encouraged to speak and talk to people,” said Matt

“If you are someone who's struggling to put your hand up and talk that's the thing we are trying to get broken down.

“Mental health is not exclusive to any age, demographic or person. You might be at the lowest of the low or the highest of the high, we're all very much exposed to mental health problems.”

‍

Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network with founder Ron Petterson. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

‍

Hi everyone,

I’m jumping into the editors column for this week.

I’ve been with Life Publishing Group for almost a year and a half now and I can say that I am still thoroughly enjoying my time here. Every day I am meeting even more new people and I love attending our local events - if you see me out and about - come and say hi!

Last Friday I attended Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network’s Legends Night at the Reef Gateway Hotel. I was the night's official photographer, but I also got to enjoy the great guest speakers and a delicious dinner.

I found the speakers incredibly inspiring, and I noticed that they all had something in common.

Being kind, practising gratitude, and being optimistic were the key points that I took away from the evening.

After going through a tough time myself recently, I was able to take on board what they said and I have already started to implement these practises into my life. Almost instantly, I am starting to feel more settled again and I’m feeling great.

Amongst practising gratitude, being kind and being more optimistic, I am also exercising more. I find exercising a positive outlet, and the feeling after a run, swim or bike ride is something I’m starting to seek more and more often.

Although exercise is great for mental health, I am not training in all those sports for no reason! I am pleased to announce that I am training for the sprint distance in the Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival in August. My friend, Sam from Adelaide, will be visiting the Whitsundays for the first time to compete, and I can’t wait to beat him! And of course also show him our amazing region.

Quote of the week
"Happiness equals reality minus expectations"

‍

Creative Connections Whitsundays is looking at transforming the former Proserpine Information Centre, located next to the Proserpine Museum, into a vibrant community art gallery through their ‘Frame Our Future’ campaign.

This space will be more than just a gallery; it will be a dynamic hub for local artists to exhibit their work, a venue for creative workshops, and a welcoming place for people to gather, learn, and connect.

Creative Connections Whitsundays say the building has great potential but it needs some work. They want to enclose the veranda, add soundproofing, fit out the space with flooring, lighting, furniture, and materials for workshops. It’s a big project but they say it will make a meaningful impact.

Once complete, the gallery will be a valuable asset for the entire community. It will boost local tourism, support small businesses, and help establish Proserpine as a cultural destination. Most importantly, it will provide locals with a space to create, share, and connect.

Creative Connections is currently seeking donations to allow them to bring this dream to life.

Creative Connections is a local group whose focus is to highlight the region's local artists and the art gallery could be a great addition to support their mission.

‍

The old Information Centre is set to become an Arts Centre. Photo supplied

‍