Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
With nearly two decades at Blacks Real Estate, Peter Francis has built a reputation across Mackay for honest service, strong negotiation skills and consistent results. Joining the agency in 2008, Peter now serves as Director and Sales Consultant, helping vendors and buyers navigate the property market with a focus on professionalism and clear communication. Originally trained as a surveyor at the University of South Australia, Peter later transitioned into real estate, where he went on to achieve national and international recognition, including National Top 20 rankings on seven occasions and a Hall of Fame award during a previous role. Since moving to Mackay in 2004 with his wife Kylie and their family, Peter has become deeply involved in the local community, balancing a busy career with raising five children and contributing to school communities and the Mackay Chamber of Commerce. Known for his calm approach and ability to mediate between buyers and sellers, Peter said building trust with clients has always been central to his work. His long list of repeat clients and referrals reflects the strong relationships he has developed across the region over the years. Blacks Real Estate continues to operate from Wood Street in Mackay and Dysart Garden Plaza, servicing residential, commercial and rural clients across the region. CAPTION: Peter Francis, Director and Sales Consultant at Blacks Real Estate. Photo supplied
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We need to talk about something that happens far too often – black kittens are usually the last to be chosen. Yet they are often the very best companions. These kittens are not just “another kitten”. They are the ones who follow you from room to room like your shadow. Who climb into your lap and stay there. Who greet you at the door like a dog and want to be involved in everything you do. They don’t just live in your home – they become part of your everyday life. Our black kittens are incredibly affectionate – true lap cats who crave human connection. They are confident and curious, often the first to explore and investigate. Playful and cheeky, they are full of personality and mischief. They are also highly social. They will chat to you, respond to you and connect with you. Once they choose you, they are yours completely. And in real life, they are absolutely stunning – with glossy coats, striking eyes, and an elegant, sleek presence that photos simply don’t capture. If you have ever wanted a cat that truly bonds with you, that seeks you out and becomes your constant little companion, come and meet our black kittens. Because once you meet them, you will understand. To register your expression of interest, please contact foster carer Janet on 0423 768 805. Contributed by Mackay Pet Rescue Inc
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There’s a type of exhaustion many women carry that doesn’t disappear with a good night’s sleep. It’s not just physical tiredness. It’s the constant mental juggling. Remembering school events, organising appointments, replying to messages, planning meals, checking homework, thinking ahead, caring for ageing parents, supporting friends, managing work deadlines, and somehow trying to look after yourself somewhere in between. Even during moments of “rest,” many women describe feeling like their brain never truly switches off. This invisible load is something women carry every day, and over time, the body often carries it too. As a women’s and pelvic health physiotherapist, I often see women who come in with symptoms like pelvic pain, bladder urgency, tension, leaking, headaches, jaw clenching, shallow breathing, or a feeling that their body is constantly tight or “on edge.” Many are surprised to learn that stress and nervous system overload can play a significant role in how the body feels and functions. When we’re stressed for long periods, the body naturally shifts into a protective state. Muscles tighten, breathing becomes shallow, sleep can be disrupted, and the nervous system stays on high alert. It’s a helpful response in short bursts, but when the body stays in that heightened state for weeks, months, or years, symptoms can begin to appear. And the pelvic floor is particularly influenced by this. Many people think the pelvic floor only matters during pregnancy or after birth, but these muscles respond closely to stress, posture, breathing, and tension patterns throughout the entire body. Some women unknowingly hold tension through their pelvic floor all day long, almost like clenching their jaw without realising. Over time, this can contribute to discomfort, urgency, constipation, pain, or difficulty fully relaxing the muscles. What’s important to understand is that this does not mean the body is “broken.” Often, it’s a body that has been coping, adapting, and carrying a great deal for a long time. And while exercise and movement are incredibly important, healing isn’t always about pushing harder. Sometimes it’s about creating moments where the body feels safe enough to soften and let go. That might look like slowing your breathing for a few minutes while sitting in the car before school pick-up. Going for a walk without turning it into another task to complete. Stretching before bed. Asking for help. Resting without guilt. Learning how to relax your pelvic floor, not just strengthen it. Small moments matter. Women are often exceptionally good at caring for everyone else while quietly ignoring their own symptoms. But tension, fatigue, and overwhelm are not simply things to “push through” forever. The body has a way of asking for attention eventually. If your body feels tight, tired, or not quite like itself, it may be worth listening with curiosity rather than criticism. Support can make a meaningful difference, whether that’s through movement, stress management, pelvic health physiotherapy, or simply giving yourself permission to slow down occasionally. Because women were never meant to carry everything alone, and the body shouldn’t have to either.
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Word of mouth is some of the most powerful marketing your business can get. It’s trusted, it’s personal + in regional areas especially, it carries a LOT of weight. Most businesses will proudly say, “Most of our work comes from word of mouth”. Which is awesome – but then they treat it like something that just magically happens. The truth is – the businesses getting the most word of mouth are usually doing a few things really well. People need a reason to talk about your business in the first place. And no, “good service” on its own usually isn’t enough anymore – that’s the baseline expectation from people! The businesses people tend to recommend are the ones that are memorable in some way. Maybe they communicate really well, make life easier, solve a specific problem, have a strong personality, do something unexpectedly fast or simply make people feel looked after. Another big one? Visibility. People are far more likely to recommend businesses they remember (I know – what a shocker lol). If someone hasn’t seen or heard from you in two years, you’re probably not top of mind when a friend asks for a recommendation. This is where consistent marketing does a lot of heavy lifting. Social media, email marketing, networking, community involvement, even signage – all of it helps reinforce who you are, what you do + why someone should choose you. Clarity matters too. If people can’t easily explain what your business does, who you help or what makes you different, referrals get weaker. The easier you are to describe, the easier you are to recommend!! One of the simplest things businesses can do is also be more specific when talking about the work they want. Instead of “let us know if you hear of anyone”, try “we’re looking for more commercial fitout work” or “we’d love more bookkeeping clients in construction”. Specific prompts help people connect the dots faster. People can’t recommend a business they forgot existed. Word of mouth doesn’t just come from doing good work – it comes from being remembered when someone needs what you do. Photo credit: Coffee + Hops
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For many people experiencing homelessness, the hardest part of the day is when night falls.
With limited safe places to sleep, vulnerable individuals often face long, uncertain nights outdoors. Safe Sleep Mackay hopes to change that reality through the introduction of Safe Sleep Buses, an initiative designed to provide temporary overnight refuge for people sleeping rough in the region.
The buses will offer a safe and secure space where individuals can rest for the night, giving them dignity, protection and a small but meaningful step toward stability. Organisers say the initiative is built around compassion and practical support, recognising that while the buses are not a permanent solution, they can provide vital relief for those in immediate need.
Community support has been central to bringing the project to life.
“It can only exist because of the community. It’s a community bus and we couldn’t do it without that support,” said Safe Sleep Mackay representative Lisa Jamieson.
Before the buses begin operating on the streets, organisers are working to ensure everything functions properly for those who will rely on the service.
“We want to test every pod and make sure everything works under full conditions before it goes out on the streets.”
Ensuring the buses can operate sustainably will also require ongoing community backing.
“We want people to know it’s not a one-off. We want this to be sustainable.
“There is no such thing as free sleep, so that ongoing support is very much needed.”
That spirit of community support was recently on display during Safe Sleep Mackay’s first ever Bosses on Buses fundraiser, held on the 27th March, and proved to be a major success.
Eleven local business leaders spent a night either sleeping in a pod on the bus or on the cold concrete outside in a show of support, raising funds and awareness for the project and helping generate more than $21,300 toward the operational costs of the buses.
“We were very excited to raise over $21,000,” Ms Jamieson said.
The event also highlighted the reality that homelessness can affect anyone.
“It’s important to know that homelessness could happen to anyone. People see it in their everyday lives, whether its friends experiencing it, or seeing it around the community.”
For the leaders who took part, the experience was a way to raise funds, whilst humbly experiencing a night away from a warm bed, and their regular day-to-day lives at home.
“Stepping up to be on the bus was one way they could do something to make a difference, and the support we’ve received from local businesses and the community is just incredible.”
As preparations continue and community support grows, organisers hope the Safe Sleep Buses will soon begin offering a safe place to rest for those who need it most. Plans are already underway for next year’s Bosses on Buses event as the community continues to rally behind the initiative.
To donate, or to find out more, visit www.safesleepmackay.com.au
END OF AN ERA
Iconic Local Landmark Announces Development Plans
Change may be on the horizon for one of Mackay’s most iconic coastal landmarks, with the beloved Eimeo Pub at the centre of growing conversation. For generations, it has been more than just a place to gather. It is where memories were made, stories were shared and community spirit thrived against a backdrop of sweeping ocean views.
Now, proposed development plans have sparked both heartfelt nostalgia and cautious optimism across the Northern Beaches. As emotions run high and discussions unfold, locals are reflecting on what this cherished venue has meant to them, while also considering what the future could hold for this historic site.
A much-loved Northern Beaches landmark could be entering a period of transition, with discussions emerging around a potential multimillion-dollar residential and hotel development on the iconic coastal site.
Perched high above Mackay’s northern beaches, the Eimeo Pub has long been a cornerstone of the local community, known for its sweeping ocean views, relaxed atmosphere and unpretentious hospitality.
The news has sparked strong emotion across the region, with many locals expressing disappointment, sadness and concern at the prospect of change for a venue that’s carried character in the region for decades. At the same time, it has also prompted broader discussion about growth, heritage and the future of iconic coastal sites.
In a statement, a representative for the Stayte family acknowledged the deep personal and community ties connected to the property, which has remained part of the family’s story for generations.
The statement read:
“On behalf of the Stayte family, we acknowledge the deep history and meaning this property has held for us and this community over generations. Our family’s connection to the land started in 1932, when Lavinia Walters/Drisscol first purchased the property.
“The current Pub was built in 1954 by Lavinia, a pioneering woman whose determination and vision helped shape not only our family’s future, but also the early development of this neighbourhood. She then sold it in 1955, only to buy it back in 1960 and put the property into Joan Stayte’s ownership, her daughter.
“For decades, this destination has stood as a place of resilience, memories, and moments of significance. Holding the property within our family for so long has been a source of immense pride.
“While it is never easy to say goodbye to a place so full of personal history, we approach this next chapter with optimism. Lavinia believed Eimeo should always have a public house accessible to locals and visitors. We believe the new residential/hotel development will honour the spirit of progress that Lavinia embodied; while contributing positively to the community she helped pioneer.
“We look forward to seeing the site evolve into beautiful new homes that embrace the stunning ocean views, continuing a legacy of growth, connection, and opportunity for future generations.”
While it is believed the pub will remain open for now, uncertainty remains around when, or if, the proposed plans will progress.
Adding historical context to the site’s significance, local historian Doug Peterson has long documented the rich story of the Northern Beaches, including the evolution of Eimeo and its surrounding communities. Last year he compiled his research into a book tracing the hotel’s origins, early ownership and colourful past, including its former skating rink, which now forms part of the venue’s function space.
His accounts also capture vivid snapshots of earlier days in the area, from mango-lined streets along Mango Avenue to colourful stories of publicans and beachside life that reflect how different, yet familiar, the region once was.
As conversations around the site’s future continue, the community finds itself divided between reflection and acceptance, with many expressing both heartfelt nostalgia and cautious curiosity about what may come next for one of the Northern Beaches’ most recognisable landmarks.
1: A much-loved coastal landmark with deep roots dating back to 1932 is now facing potential redevelopment, marking a shift from its heritage past toward a new residential and hotel future that has sparked both reflection and debate. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara & Eimeo Pacific Hotel
2: A moment in time. Image source: Doug Peterson
3: An artist’s impression of what the new development could look like. Sourced: Mackay Regional Council
Shocking new data has revealed the impact the Albanese Labor Government’s disastrous energy policies are having on local families.
According to the Australian Energy Regulator, 37,122 households in Queensland were unable to pay their power bills over the period of October to December 2025.
Since Labor was elected in 2022, an additional 18,732 households have recorded hardship: this represents a staggering 102 per cent increase from when the Coalition was in office. Nationally, 230,000 households are in energy distress, which is an increase of nearly 70 per cent in just 3.5 years and the highest level of hardship on record.
Shadow Minister for Energy and Emissions Reduction, Dan Tehan, said the federal government’s energy policies had failed to deliver affordable energy.
“Under Labor, power bills are up nearly 40 per cent because the government has chosen to rip the guts out of our energy system,” Mr Tehan said.
“A lack of baseload power and sufficient supply is pushing up prices; that is showing up as higher prices every time Australians open their power bill. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese promised to cut power bills by $275, but Australian households have not seen that promised reduction.”
Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, said the energy crisis was heaping pressure on local households.
“With inflation and interest rates rising as well as power bills, my office has been inundated with locals telling me they’re at breaking point. It’s heartbreaking,” Mr Willcox said.
“Behind this new data are people in our community who are really struggling to make ends meet, yet all they get from the federal government are broken promises.”
As the Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability, Mr Willcox said the current energy crisis is creating a multiplied effect for major industrial users who are already struggling to keep their factories operational.
"The current fuel crisis is a stark reminder of why national sovereignty is vital: yet this Labor government fails to recognise the danger or take the necessary action to protect our independence.
“We have already seen the car industry disintegrate and now manufacturing across many other sectors is at risk; we must prioritise being a self-sufficient nation that makes our own products here in Australia.
“I’ll keep fighting for a more stable, reliable energy grid that puts the needs of Australians first, not one-size-fits-all mandates and targets that we can’t practically achieve.”
Contributed with thanks to the office of Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox
Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, says that record energy hardship is impacting thousands of Queensland households and businesses. Photo supplied
Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm has highlighted the important work of the Mackay Area Fish Stocking Association, praising the organisation’s role in supporting local waterways, education and recreational fishing across the region.
Ms Camm said the volunteer-run group plays a vital but often unseen role in maintaining fish stocks and supporting community events such as the upcoming sooty grunter competition.
She acknowledged the organisation’s strong community contribution, particularly through education and volunteer involvement.
“They certainly play an important role right across the community,” she said.
Ms Camm said the association’s work supports both environmental outcomes and recreational fishing opportunities, with fish stocking helping to maintain healthy populations in local dams and waterways.
“Because of the recreational nature in which people love to get out and go fishing… when it’s too windy out there on the water, you want to be able to go fishing on the dam,” she said.
She also emphasised the reliance on volunteers and community support to continue operations.
“Organisations like this are run completely by volunteers,” she said.
“Through their fundraising efforts, through their corporate donations and the sponsorships they receive, they’re able to produce stock that fill our dams across our community and our region.”
The Mackay Area Fish Stocking Association continues its volunteer hatchery work, breeding sooty grunter and barramundi to support local fishing and upcoming competitions.
Volunteer Stephen Gibbs said the group is currently operating with a small team, but remains committed to maintaining fish stocks for the region.
“We are a purely volunteer group that is dedicated to improving the fish stocks around the five, particularly in the dams, for the fishermen,” he said.
He says daily work at the hatchery involves feeding, cleaning and maintaining fish until they are ready for release.
“Basically, there’s been three of us who have been running with the hatchery for the last few months.”
Mr Gibbs said the organisation is always seeking additional volunteers to support its work. The association also works with local schools, including St Patrick’s College and Holy Spirit College, to educate students about aquaculture and fish production.
The INDT21st World Sooty Championships will be hosted by the Mackay Area Fish Stocking Assoc Inc. at Eungella Dam via Mackay during the May Day weekend from 2nd May to 3rd May 2026.
“It’s always very popular,” he said.
The association continues to play a key role in supporting recreational fishing across the Mackay region, with volunteers helping ensure healthy fish stocks for both current and future generations.
Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm visited the Mackay Area Fish Stocking Association Inc to highlight the important role of volunteers in supporting local fish stocks, waterways and recreational fishing across the region. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
The Northern Beaches Community Hub is continuing to take shape, with construction reaching a significant milestone as structural steel is now being installed on site.
Director of Infrastructure and Operations Simon Taylor said the project is progressing steadily, with the building now visibly forming after months of groundwork.
“What you’ll see next is the building’s beginning to take shape,” he said.
Mr Taylor said the development will include a range of flexible community spaces designed to support local groups and activities, including the opportunity for a future café operator.
“The community areas that will be available to book up, and a cafe that we would love to see somebody come and run for us in the future.”
He said the design includes an underground car park, a large multi-use community space, and additional rooms to support a variety of uses.
“There’ll be lots of opportunities for groups to come in and use the building that’ll be available here.”
Facilities will include dedicated community rooms, outdoor change rooms, a wet room for arts and craft activities, and a large divisible meeting space that can be separated into two rooms or used as one larger venue.
The hub will also connect to the nearby library via a walkway, with the library building to be constructed above the community spaces.
Mr Taylor said the project marks an important milestone for the region and a step forward in delivering a long-anticipated community asset.
“We’ve got a really good milestone underway right now with the structural steel, and we’re pressing ahead for completion at Christmas.”
A project update also confirmed Stage 1B of the Northern Beaches Community Hub is now progressing, with the superstructure for building one nearing completion. Residents are beginning to see the scale and layout of the development take shape.
Stage 1B will deliver a modern library, flexible community rooms, a town square, courtyard, café space, undercover parking and customer service facilities designed to support the growing population for decades to come.
The project is jointly funded by the Australian Government and Mackay Regional Council, including $6.5 million for Stage 1A and $15 million through the Growing Regions Program Round 1 for Stage 1B.
Once complete, the Northern Beaches Community Hub is expected to become a central gathering place for events, services and community connection across the rapidly growing coastal corridor.
The Northern Beaches Community Hub is progressing steadily with structural steel now in place, with construction on track for completion by Christmas. Photo source: Mackay Regional Council
A young girl lost her beloved stuffie, Strawberry, in Caneland Central mall this week, but the pair was later reunited thanks to some eagle-eyed locals and a post on Facebook.
After the loss of the big cuddly cat toy, the little girl’s mum reached out to Mackay residents on a Facebook community board, putting out a plea to anyone who might have seen it.
“If your child is taking care of Strawberry currently, I will give them some money to go out and purchase a new toy cat so our daughter can have her baby back.” She kindly wrote.
“She has been crying everyday asking for her to come home. She has to be somewhere.”
Thanks to some eagle-eyed locals, Strawberry was located. Somehow, the cat had been collected and donated to a charity shop – even wearing the same dress she had been lost in.
The grateful mum headed straight out to retrieve the toy, before reaching out again to thank all the helpers for bringing Strawberry home.
Commenters celebrated the toy’s return.
“Oh just imagine the story little Strawberry could tell about her adventure!” NJ wrote.
“So glad you got her back.”
There’s something quietly special about Oscar, a gentle soul with a story that speaks to resilience, patience, and the transformative power of kindness.
At approximately three years old, this domestic short hair has already lived a life many pets thankfully never experience. Oscar spent his early years navigating the uncertainty of the streets, relying on instinct to survive. When he was eventually found injured, it marked a turning point — his first step toward safety, care, and the possibility of a better life.
Now, in a secure environment, Oscar is slowly learning to trust. It’s a process that doesn’t happen overnight, but with each passing day, glimpses of his true personality are shining through. Beneath his cautious exterior is a sweet and slightly goofy companion, just waiting for the right person to give him the time and space he needs to fully blossom.
Oscar would thrive in a calm, quiet home — ideally with an individual or couple who understand that trust is earned, not rushed. While he’s not suited to a home with children, and his compatibility with other pets is still unknown, he has enormous potential to become a deeply loyal companion in the right setting.
With a full belly, a soft place to rest, and a patient hand, Oscar is beginning to realise he no longer needs to live behind emotional walls. What he needs now is someone willing to continue that journey with him.
Oscar has been desexed, vaccinated, and microchipped, and is ready to find the place he can finally call home.
Adoption fee: $190
Please contact Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc for more details
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has long been boxed into a narrow narrative: restless children, distracted students, and adults who simply need to "try harder." Yet this framing does more to obscure than illuminate. ADHD is not a failure of effort or discipline; it is a neurodevelopmental condition that challenges how individuals regulate attention, impulses, and energy in a world that increasingly demands constant focus, organisation, and restraint.
In recent years, awareness of ADHD has surged, particularly among adults who were never diagnosed in childhood. Many are now recognising lifelong patterns-chronic disorganisation, difficulty sustaining attention, emotional intensity-that were previously misread as personality flaws. This shift has been driven in part by social media, where personal stories have helped demystify the condition. While this visibility has been valuable, it has also sparked debate about overdiagnosis and the risk of trivialising acomplex disorder.
The truth lies somewhere in between. ADHD is both underdiagnosed and misunderstood. For decades, diagnostic criteria were based largely on young boys exhibiting hyperactive behaviours. As a result, girls and individuals with predominantly inattentivesymptoms were frequently overlooked. These individuals often internalised their struggles, leading to anxiety, low self-esteem, and a sense of underachievement that persisted into adulthood.
This stigma not only delays diagnosis but also prevents people from accessing tools that could significantly improve their quality of life.
Workplaces and schools also have a role to play. Flexible structures, clear communication, and recognition of different working styles can make a profound difference. Supporting ADHD is not about lowering standards; it is about creating conditions where people can meet them in ways that align with how their brains function.
Ultimately, reframing ADHD requires a cultural shift. Instead of asking individuals to conform to rigid expectations of attention and productivity, we might ask how systems can better accommodate cognitive diversity.
Photo credit: Stories in Light Imagery
Fauna Rescue Whitsundays has put out the call for wildlife volunteers – more specifically bird carers. The organisation is seeking volunteers to help care for birds in need.
“Right now, we are stretched and need extra hands as soon as possible to ensure these animals receive the care they deserve,” the team said in a Facebook post.
Fauna Rescue have listed their requirements which are as follows:
No experience is required as guidance and training will be provided.
The Whitsunday’s region is home to beautiful wildlife however human exposure and environmental factors can put them in danger. It is immensely important that we – as a community – protect them so that the area can sustain its eco-diversity.
The call is specifically for the Whitsunday and Mackay regions.
Contact details, expressions of interest and extensive information about wildlife conservation can be accessed via Fauna Rescue Whitsundays website.
The Fauna Rescue Whitsunday’s website contains a wealth of resources and knowledge for assisting and protecting animals in need – from birds to bandicoots.
For emergencies rescues or situations – the team can be accessed via hotline: 4947 3389.
The Whitsunday Regional Council is proposing important amendments to Subordinate Local Law No. 1 (Administration) 2014, aimed at strengthening the regulation of short-term accommodation (STA) across the region. These changes are designed to strike a better balance between supporting tourism and protecting the lifestyle and amenity of local residents.
The proposed amendments focus on improving compliance and accountability, particularly in residential areas where poorly managed short-term rentals can disrupt neighbourhood harmony. While recent Planning Scheme updates addressed where STA is appropriate through designated precincts, the Local Law amendments concentrate on how these properties operate.
Key changes include clearer guidelines on which types of accommodation are exempt from requiring an STA licence, particularly where existing regulations already apply or impacts are minimal. Additionally, property owners will be required to display STA licence numbers on online booking platforms, making it easier for Council to monitor compliance.
The amendments also introduce formal complaint handling and escalation processes for property managers, ensuring that resident concerns are addressed promptly and consistently. Stronger enforcement measures are proposed for cases involving repeated breaches or poor management practices.
Council is encouraging community members to review the proposed changes and provide feedback. Residents can participate through an online survey.
This is an opportunity for locals to have their say on how short-term accommodation is managed in the Whitsundays.
The Whitsunday Regional Council has announced upgrades and works for the Bicentennial Boardwalk (from Lagoon to Coral Sea). Works on the final stage of the boardwalk will commence on Monday 27 April and are expected to run through to late June with a detour in place via Mazlin Street and Hillcrest Avenue.
The upgrades will create a wider boardwalk and footpath between Lagoon and Coral Sea Resort with new durable decking to reduce maintenance costs. These upgrades ensure a safe and more accessible structure for everyone.
Work hours will generally occur between 7am and 6pm, Monday to Friday, with some earlier starts required for concrete pours. Residents and visitors may notice increased construction activity, including heavy vehicle movements and temporary changes to traffic and parking conditions.
Whilst under construction, the boardwalk section will be closed until late June and parking at Broadwater Avenue will be reduced until early May.
Pedestrians, cyclists and motorists are asked to take care around the work zone, follow all signage and directions from traffic controllers, and allow extra time when travelling through the area.
To stay updated you can:
With demand for skilled automotive tradespeople remaining strong across Australia, TAFE Queensland teacher
Adrian Sidea is helping build the pipeline from the ground up at Bowen and Whitsundays campuses.
Adrian delivers the Certificate II in Automotive Vocational Preparation (AUR20720) to school students, alongside the Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology (AUR30620) for apprentices – creating pathways into industries including automotive, mining and broader technical trades.
After years working in the trade, Adrian transitioned into teaching to share his experience and support the next generation.
“I wanted to take what I’d learnt and use it to help others get started,” he said.
Through VET in Schools, students gain early exposure to tools, systems and real workplace expectations, building practical capability and confidence before entering the workforce.
“These courses give students a strong foundation,” Adrian said. “It’s not just about one job – it’s about learning skills they can take anywhere.”
The training focuses on real-world application – developing problem-solving ability, teamwork, safety awareness and technical precision.
For many students, the experience provides clarity and direction.
“Some come in unsure of what they want to do,” Adrian said. “By the end, they’ve built confidence and can see what’s possible.”
Adrian continues to stay connected to industry, ensuring his teaching reflects current practices and emerging technologies.
“When students leave ready to take that next step, that’s what it’s all about.”
For more information on studying automotive, visit tafeqld.edu.au or call 1300 308 233.
Bowen State High School is hosting its annual Apprenticeship Readiness Evening, inviting Year 9-12 students along with their parents and carers to discover local career opportunities.
This event will feature a panel of industry experts who will share valuable insights into current modern workplace demands. Beyond general career advice, attendees will gain information on the application processes for key businesses and learn about the specific steps necessary to secure apprenticeships and traineeships in the coming years.
Principal Rob Harris highlights the importance of this event as a chance for students to connect with potential employers, emphasising that understanding the relationship between education and local industry can help students make informed decisions about their futures.
The evening will also include participation from key staff members and current and former trainees from Bowen SHS, who will offer firsthand advice to students and their families.
Event Highlights:
Industry Insights: Panel discussion with local employers, trainers and apprentices
Application Roadmap: Step-by-step guidance on securing a traineeship or apprenticeship in 2026 and 2027
Target Audience: Students from Years 9 to 12 and their parents and carers
The evening commences at 6:00 PM in McKenna Hall
WHAT: Apprenticeship Readiness Evening
WHEN: Wednesday 29th April, 6pm
WHERE: McKenna Hall, Bowen State High School
Lake Proserpine is coming alive and it’s driving a real wave of momentum right across town as we head into peak season.
While many will have noticed the return of the Proserpine RV Rest Stop, the bigger story for me is the momentum building right across the town, particularly out at Lake Proserpine.
For the third-year running, we’re seeing the lake come to life with major events and growing visitation. This July, the Reef Trail concert series returns, bringing its Sundowner event back to the lakeside and it’s exactly the kind of activation that continues to put Lake Proserpine on the map.
We’ve always known what a special place it is. Home to the famous metre-long barramundi, it’s long been a favourite for keen fishers. But what we’re seeing now is that broader appeal with families, campers and event-goers all discovering what the lake has to offer.
That’s where the return of the RV Rest Stop fits in.
It’s not just about providing a place to stay, it’s about making it easier for visitors to experience everything Proserpine has to offer, from the lake through to our local shops, cafes and services.
When you’ve got a well-activated destination like Lake Proserpine, combined with accessible, welcoming facilities for travellers, it creates a strong flow-on effect for the whole town.
And that’s exactly what we want to see with more people stopping, staying and spending locally.
Importantly, the RV Rest Stop will operate seasonally, allowing us to maximise those benefits during peak travel periods while managing it in a practical and sustainable way.
Proserpine has always played a key role as the gateway to the Whitsundays, particularly for the northern drive market.
What we’re doing now is building on that and creating more reasons to stop, more to see and more to experience.
Because when we get that right, the benefits don’t just stay at the lake or the RV site, they flow right through the town and support local businesses, jobs and community life.
And right now, Proserpine is well and truly open for business.
Lund Industries is a locally based, multi-faceted business with a strong focus on sustainability, agriculture, and practical innovation. Established in 2011 by David Lund, the business has expanded over time to include several complementary operations that support both the agricultural sector and the wider community.
One of its newest ventures, Liquid Fish Whitsundays, began in 2023 and focuses on processing waste from the local fishing industry. Instead of allowing this material to go unused, the business ferments it into a fish hydrolysate product that supports plant growth and acts as a natural soil conditioner. This process turns what would otherwise be waste into a valuable resource for regenerative agriculture.
Alongside Liquid Fish, Lund Industries also operates as an agent for Predator Power Products, a range of petrol engines, pumps, and generators widely used in agriculture and rural industries. This agency was added in 2018, helping farmers and landholders access reliable equipment for their operations.
The business also runs a grass-fed breeding and fattening beef operation near Bloomsbury, using regenerative farming practices designed to improve soil health, biodiversity, and long-term environmental outcomes.
The motivation behind these ventures stems from a desire to produce chemical-free, nutritionally dense food while improving the environment at the same time. As interest in regenerative agriculture continues to grow, demand for natural soil inputs such as fish hydrolysate has increased. Many producers do not have access to the raw materials needed to produce it themselves, creating an opportunity for businesses like Liquid Fish Whitsundays to support the industry.
Like many regional operators, the business faces challenges including regulatory pressures, infrastructure limitations, and operational costs. Despite this, the focus remains on steady growth and practical solutions.
Key advice for other business owners includes having a clear vision, progressing through small achievable steps, prioritising customer service, and maintaining honesty and transparency in all dealings.
As a new Chamber member, Lund Industries looks forward to networking opportunities and connecting with other local businesses.
Learn more about Liquid Fish Whitsundays: https://www.liquidfishwhitsundays.com.au/
Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry
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