Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Mackay father Phil Smith has been recognised on the state stage, receiving the Queensland New Volunteer Award for 2026 for his tireless work raising awareness around asbestos-related disease. Since the passing of his wife Leah in 2024, Mr Smith has devoted himself to advocacy and fundraising through Ride In Shorts For Leah, contributing more than 1,200 volunteer hours and raising over $42,000 to support education and prevention efforts. Leah, who was unknowingly exposed to asbestos in childhood, was diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma at 49 and passed away just over eight months later. Her story has since become the driving force behind Mr Smith’s public mission to warn others about the risks hidden in many Australian homes. Presented at Brisbane City Hall by the Governor of Queensland, the award recognises his ongoing commitment to community awareness and support. What began in the shadow of personal loss has grown into a wider campaign of education, remembrance and prevention, carried forward in Leah’s name. Mackay father Phil Smith has been awarded the Queensland New Volunteer Award for 2026 in recognition of his asbestos awareness advocacy and fundraising efforts inspired by the loss of his wife Leah. Photos supplied
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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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Whitsunday Coast Airport has officially set a new annual passenger record, welcoming over 522,000 passengers over the past 12 months and surpassing its previous record of 507,000 set last year.
This milestone cements Whitsunday Coast Airport’s status as one of Australia’s fastest-growing regional airports and highlights the strong appeal of the Whitsundays as a premier destination for both domestic and international travellers.
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the airport’s continued growth is a testament to Council’s long-term vision and investment in the region.
“Whitsunday Coast Airport is a fully self-funded, Council-owned asset that operates without any ratepayer subsidies,” Mayor Collins said.
“It not only covers its own costs but also delivers strong financial returns that are reinvested into local services and infrastructure to support future growth, while providing a dividend back to Council.
“Every dollar of profit strengthens essential services and supports projects that make our region an even better place to live, work, and visit.
“This record-breaking year is a win for our local economy, our tourism industry, and our community as a whole.”
Whitsunday Coast Airport continues to attract major airline partners and new services, positioning the region as a key gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the Whitsunday islands.
Mayor Collins thanked airport staff, airline partners, and the wider community for contributing to the record-breaking achievement.
“Our airport team has done an incredible job delivering safe, efficient, and welcoming services to passengers, and we’re excited to keep building on this momentum,” he said.
Council’s Director of Commercial Businesses, Craig Turner, said a combination of increased flight
frequencies and new route opportunities had driven the airport’s record-breaking performance.
“While the team will take a moment to celebrate this milestone, our priority remains delivering a
seamless, top-quality experience for every passenger — from check-in to touchdown,” he said.
“Our growth trajectory has been strong and steady, rising from 280,000 passengers in 2021 to
507,000 last financial year — and now surpassing 522,000.
“A thriving airport is crucial not only for tourism but also for our local economy, job creation, and regional connectivity.
“Whitsunday Coast Airport is more than a tourism gateway; it’s an essential hub for business travel and freight, keeping our region connected and competitive.”
The last 12 months has seen a record amount of visitors. Photo supplied
The Whitsunday community is set to benefit after the newly instated State Government budget outlines how funding will provide vital repairs to the Bowen Courthouse.
The new budget has delivered a $12.5 million boost to restore the Bowen Courthouse, addressing the major structural issues to the historic building while ensuring justice services continue to be delivered in the Whitsunday region.
The project will focus on long-overdue restorations of one of Queensland’s oldest courthouses, the new restoration will be ridding the building of termites and mould.
The roof, gutters, downpipes, and storm water systems will also be replaced to ensure the courthouse can better manage future weather conditions.
Attorney-General, Minister for Justice and Minister for Integrity Deb Frecklington said the Bowen Courthouse was last refurbished almost two decades ago, and upgrades would preserve the building’s original character.
“The multi-million-dollar refurbishment will ensure the Bowen Courthouse can continue to serve the community for years to come,” the Attorney-General said.
“Conditions inside the courthouse are horrendous – there is rising damp, rust, mould and structural shifting inside the courthouse, as well as rotting floors ridden with termites.
“Modern and maintained court facilities are critical for victims navigating the justice system, as well as the safety of our courthouse staff and judiciary.”
Member for Burdekin Dale Last said the Bowen Courthouse illustrates the importance of Bowen during Queensland’s early history.
“This investment will breathe new life into an historic and beautiful building that will serve the Bowen community for many years to come," Mr Last said.
“Not only will these works improve safety, comfort and accessibility for people accessing essential justice services, but they will also restore and protect a building that holds so much history and prominence for the Bowen community.”
Tenders for the construction stage will be called in the coming months, with work expected to commence early next year.
Bowen Courthouse restoration is expected to begin early next year. Photo sourced: online
Concerns have been raised about unsafe behaviour and damage to public infrastructure at Jubilee Park in Proserpine, after a group of teenage BMX riders were allegedly seen riding dangerously through the children’s playground on Sunday morning.
According to multiple witnesses, four boys on BMX bikes rode directly through the playground area while young children and toddlers were present.
A concerned community member took to Facebook to report that the boys were riding through the playground where young children and toddlers were playing.
They also said the boys constructed makeshift BMX jumps near the flying fox, causing visible damage to the surrounding area.
One mother asked the group to stop and said she was met with a mixed response, two of the boys reportedly complied, but others joined later and she described their behaviour
as ‘pack mentality’ becoming verbally aggressive and continuing their ride through the play area, despite being asked to stop.
Witnesses reported vulgar language and intimidating behaviour, including offensive remarks directed at a breastfeeding mother.
Ultimately, the community member on Facebook wanted to be clear - young people being active, outdoors and socialising away from screens is good but they feel it is important that they also behave respectfully and comply by playground safety rules.
“I’m sharing this in the hope that it reaches the parents of these boys because if they were my sons I would want to know how they were acting in public especially towards mothers and children,” they shared.
“If your kids ride here please talk to them. This is a space for families and it deserves respect.”
They also expressed frustration over repeated damage to playgrounds in the area, with two swings recently broken at the nearby Proserpine park. The latest incident has renewed calls for increased respect for shared community spaces.
There are currently no formal restrictions on bike use within Jubilee Park, but families say greater awareness is needed to ensure the safety of young children and the preservation of public facilities.
The community member posted this image on Facebook, along with their concerns. Photo sourced: Facebook
Tourism Whitsundays has launched the STARS Program, a fresh way to shine a light on the people, places and stories that make The Whitsundays so special.
The program invites local tourism operators and businesses to share their latest news, achievements and updates. Whether it’s a new tour, a recent renovation, standout reviews, or efforts to protect the environment, every story helps promote our region far and wide.
This information will be used to showcase the Whitsundays across regional, state and national platforms, including Tourism and Events Queensland, Tourism Australia, media outlets, trade partners, and Tourism Whitsundays own marketing channels. The more we know, the more we can celebrate everything that makes our region shine.
STARS stands for:
Something new: new offerings, updates, or exciting projects
Transformation and training: business improvements or staff development
Advertising and articles: promotions, campaigns or media coverage
Recognition and results: awards, milestones, or glowing feedback
Sustainability: steps taken to protect and care for our environment
By gathering and sharing these stories, Tourism Whitsundays can highlight the passion and hard work happening across the region, while keeping The Whitsundays front of mind for visitors and partners alike.
It’s all about telling our story and showing the world what makes our region one of Australia’s most loved destinations.
Find out more by contacting us: marketing@tourismwhitsundays.com.au
Contributed with thanks to Tourism Whitsundays
The Bowen Visitor Information Centre, next to the Big Mango, has welcomed a record 56,360 visitors in the past financial year — a 9% increase on the previous year. That’s an average of 1083 people each week, with July and June the busiest months.
Bowen Tourism and Business Manager Leanne Abernethy said day trippers, especially from Airlie Beach, made up 40% of visitors.
“That percentage has been steadily increasing,” she said.
“We have also noticed more people from South Australia since the introduction of direct flights from Proserpine to Adelaide.”
International visitors made up 16% of the total.
Whitsundays Deputy Mayor Michelle Wright congratulated the team, saying, “The consistently strong visitor numbers, including 400 people through the door on the final day of the financial year alone, are a clear sign that the drive tourism marketing strategy is delivering real results.”
Chair of Bowen Tourism and Business Jenn Honnery added, “Welcoming a record number of visitors is a testament to the hard work, warm hospitality, and local knowledge of the staff and volunteers.”
The strong numbers cap off a successful 12 months for the organisation, which also won Gold for Visitor Services at the Whitsunday Tourism Awards and Bronze at the Queensland Awards.
The busy time in Bowen hasn’t eased yet. In the first week of July, the team at the Big Mango welcomed an average of 350 people every day.
RECORD NUMBERS
*Total visitors in financial year - 56,360
*International 15.8%
*Queensland – 58.6%
*Other Australian visitors – 25.6%
Contributed with thanks to Leanne Abernethy
Bowen Tourism and Business team members, Leanne Abernethy, Cindy Tonks and Glenn Womal with a family from Brisbane this week. Photo supplied
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Staying prepared — together
One of the most important responsibilities I hold as Mayor is chairing our Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG).
While it might not always make front-page news, this work is critical to the safety and resilience of our Whitsunday region’s communities.
This month, our LDMG met once again as part of our ongoing commitment to disaster preparedness. The group isn’t just made up of Council staff and brings together a diverse and dedicated team including our emergency services, SES volunteers, Queensland Police, Queensland Fire and Emergency Services, power and water utilities, port and road infrastructure providers, and community support organisations like the Red Cross.
We meet monthly, even outside of disaster season, because being prepared is not something we do only when the skies start to darken. It’s about ongoing collaboration, planning, and learning from past events so we can respond quickly and effectively when needed.
Whether it’s a cyclone, flood, bushfire, or another unexpected event, our shared goal is to ensure our community is as ready as possible. This means having clear communication plans, up-to-date evacuation strategies, and strong support networks in place long before an emergency strikes.
Our region is no stranger to natural disasters, and we know how vital it is to build local resilience. From ensuring critical infrastructure can withstand severe weather to supporting vulnerable residents, the LDMG works year-round to make sure no one is left behind.
I want to extend a big thank you to all the members of the LDMG for their ongoing commitment and tireless efforts behind the scenes. Their dedication means that when the unexpected happens, we are ready to stand together as a community and look after one another.
As always, I encourage everyone to have their own household emergency plan in place. You can find resources in the comprehensive Emergency Action Guide on Council’s website to help you prepare, and I urge you to take a moment to review this document.
Stay safe and look out for each other — because in the Whitsundays, we know that together, we’re stronger.
The 2025–26 Whitsunday Regional Council Budget includes some good news, with funding directed to local infrastructure and community assets. But many in our business community will be feeling the impact of the 21% rise in commercial and industrial rates, along with a 5% increase in utility charges.
The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry has raised concerns, and Council will soon share with us how this additional revenue will be used to support real outcomes for business growth.
At the state level, the Queensland Budget includes several positive initiatives, such as new housing and construction measures and continued investment in tourism and renewable energy—sectors with strong relevance to our region. Congratulations also to the Whitsundays Skyway project that received a $5 million contribution.
However, in the state budget there is ongoing uncertainty around the delivery of key infrastructure commitments, and the withdrawal of exploration funding may impact confidence in the resources and services sectors.
The Chamber will keep advocating strongly for decisions that are fair, transparent, and focused on helping our region grow. We’re here to ensure that business is part of the conversation—and part of the solution.
With a busy few months of regional sport, sailing, and community festivals ahead, we’re looking forward to uniting the region’s businesses at the 2025 Whitsunday Business Conference, taking place on Thursday 28 August at TAFE Queensland’s Cannonvale campus.
This annual event is a chance to come together, share experiences — the highs, the hurdles, and everything in between — and celebrate the spirit of doing business in the Whitsundays.
Attendees can expect a practical, engaging program featuring real-world insights from local business leaders and regional industry experts. See you there!
A warm, sunny start with the unmistakable aroma of a good old Aussie barbecue set the scene perfectly as local NDIS providers rocked up to host a cracking community event. The whole shindig was all about inclusion, connection, and support. It was a fair dinkum chance for participants, their families, and support workers to kick back, leave their usual routines behind, and soak up a relaxed, social vibe.
“The BBQ was a success. Approximately 60 people turned up, from NDIS Participants to their family to Support Workers from both Providers to the local police, a great time was had by all,” said Tracie Cockburn, Group Co-ordinator and Senior Support Worker.
The BBQ marked a promising beginning to what organisers hope will become a regular series of social events, designed to enhance community engagement and participant wellbeing.
“The community BBQ was a fantastic first step in the collaboration of local NDIS providers to host community social events. This can be a game changer for participants especially those working toward goals like social inclusion, confidence building, and community engagement,” Tracie said.
By working together, service providers can deliver more dynamic and inclusive experiences for their clients.
“When providers join forces they bring together diverse skills and expose participants to a range of personalities from both participants and support workers.”
These events also offer a safe space for developing social confidence and forging new connections.
“Collaborative events attract a wider range of participants which helps foster inclusive social interactions. For people with disabilities who may struggle with unfamiliar settings or peer engagement these events offer a safe and structured way to meet others, build friendships and practice social etiquette.”
Participants also benefit from continuity of care, with aligned approaches between providers.
“When providers collaborate, they can align their approaches and share insights. This helps participants feel secure and understood.”
Importantly, collaboration helps overcome logistical challenges and reduce the risk of isolation.
“Without these joint efforts some participants may miss out on community events altogether due to limited capacity or lack of tailored support.”
For further details, Grow & Evolve Owner/Manager Angela Coventry is available to speak more about the event.
Whitsunday Coast Airport has officially joined the Containers for Change program, launching a new sustainability initiative expected to generate around $80,000 annually through container refunds.
All departments within Council’s Commercial Businesses Directorate will participate in the program, which will support both the environment and local communities.
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the initiative was a double win.
“This is about turning everyday recycling into real support for our local groups,” Mayor Collins said.
“Every eligible bottle or can collected at the airport helps keep valuable materials out of landfill and there is a strong opportunity to channel these funds into grassroots organisations in Airlie Beach, Proserpine, Bowen, and Collinsville.”
How the funds are allocated will be determined by Council, with options including support for regional non-profits and sporting clubs. A Bowen-based contractor will manage the initiative, keeping benefits local.
“Having a Bowen-based contractor manage this program means local jobs and local expertise are driving the impact,” Mayor Collins said.
“It’s another example of how we’re backing local businesses and creating practical environmental outcomes at the same time.”
Craig Turner, Director of Commercial Businesses, said the airport was proud to lead by example.
“We’re in a unique position to show visitors and locals that small actions, like recycling a drink bottle, can make a big difference,” Mr Turner said.
He added the program complements other sustainability efforts at the airport, such as Virgin Australia’s sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) trial in partnership with Viva Energy.
“Our team is proud to be part of projects that not only support the environment but also have the potential to deliver tangible benefits to local clubs and organisations,” he said.
Many people today may not be aware that before Proserpine became the centre of a major sugar-producing area, it was encircled by large cattle stations. There had, in fact, been substantial cattle runs in the area dating back to the very early 1860s.
These early cattle stations included Bromby Park, now Goorganga (once owned by Bodes and Cottons); Bloomsbury (MacCartneys); Proserpine Station and Amelia Vale (Emmersons); Cattle Vale (The James McDonald family); Collingvale (James Collins) and Myrtlebrook (The Bradleys).
In the 1920s, some of these stations were cut up into smaller sections for cane farms but others survived to the present day and still contribute to the local economy.
The McDonalds of Cattle Vale Station
For over three generations, Cattle Vale was home to the McDonald family. Donald McDonald arrived from Scotland in 1827 as a free settler under a three-year contract to the Van Dieman Land Co. He shipped the first live cattle from England and a draft of sheep from Spain. Donald took up land in South Australia and later Forsayth in Queensland. In 1864, while looking for a suitable grazing area, he was fatally injured at Einasleigh River.
Donald and wife, Elizabeth Archibald, had 8 children including 3 sons - Donald Jnr, James and William. Eldest son, Donald Jnr, remained single and settled in North Queensland. William married Amelia Jochheim at Glencoe Station (in Wangaratta Shire, now Bowen) in 1877. They settled on Woodlands Station and had a family of six daughters. The second son, James, married Mary Hughes and they had two sons, Donald Archibald (Archie) and Bert. They lived on Glencoe before taking up Cattle Vale, including the Mountain Home selection in 1897/98.
When James died, this property was left to the eldest of his two sons, Donald (Archie). Archie married and raised three children on Cattle Vale - Vera (O’Donoghue), Doreen (Shelley) and Jim. James’s other son, Bert, who did not marry, owned the neighbouring property, Hecate. After selling Hecate, he retired to Kelsey Creek.
Archie Mc Donald took part in the social and economic life of the district, invested in property and was a member of Kennedy Stockholders Association. In the article, “Proserpine & District Pioneers”, from the special edition of the “Proserpine Guardian” (1947), W B Morgan stated that there was ‘a small cottage and orchard owned by McDonald occupying the land between Webbers Café and the Prince of Wales Hotel Corner in 1897’. Later, McDonald House was erected where Filby’s Toyota is situated today.
Recollections from Archie’s son, Jim, indicate that his family also owned land that included the hotel (Metropole), the picture theatre, skating rink and mini golf in Chapman Street. The picture theatre referred to was the Tivoli and this was also where the skating rink and mini golf were located. This land is where Porters Hardware and Plumbing is now located. The McDonalds also owned the first 240 volt power generator in 1912/13 to power their picture theatre.
On March 8 1919, “Proserpine Guardian” reported that at a special meeting of the Returned Soldiers’ Association, Mr D A McDonald generously offered to donate a piece of the land adjoining the skating rink in Chapman Street on which to build a ‘rest home’ (that being a rest room for the benefit of returned soldiers).
A J (Jim) McDonald took over Cattle Vale after the death of his father, Archie, but, in 1944, he sold it to Mr Fred Watts Snr and his wife, Marjorie Lyons, as he felt the west was more suitable for expansion and cattle grazing. Jim, Marjorie, and their young family moved to Cloncurry where they purchased Brightlands Station in 1946, laying the foundation for the family’s present extensive pastoral operations, MDH Pty Ltd.
In spite of remoteness, low rainfall and challenges of wild cattle, unfenced paddocks and cattle duffing, Jim and his sons, Bob and Don, increased their holdings and formed the McDonald Holdings Pastoral Company. With nearly two centuries of history in the pastoral industry and now 7th generation of beef producers, MDH
Pty Ltd is one of Australia’s largest beef cattle operations running 150,000 head of cattle on 14 Queensland properties covering 3.36 million hectares. The McDonald family still live and work on the founding property, Brightlands, as well as nearby Devoncourt.
So, what of Cattle Vale Station today?
Cattle Vale Station has had quite a few owners since the McDonalds sold to Mr Fred Watts in 1944. In August 1965, it was sold by then owners Messrs A & B D Collins to a Merinda cattleman, Mr G D Smith. Mr Jim Farr and family purchased the property in 1988 and sold it in 2005 to Mr Ken Stevens who still owns Cattle Vale Station today.
Blazing the Trail.
While sugar has replaced cattle at the heart of Proserpine’s primary production, the area owes much to these early cattlemen who blazed the trail. It was their search for grazing land that opened up North Queensland. The McDonald men must be recognised as part of the backbone of the pastoral industry of Queensland but so too those wonderful women who supported them through their endeavours and dreams.
Stay tuned for more stories of pioneers of the cattle industry in future editions.
Story and photos courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum.
The original cattlevale station homestead. Photo supplied.
Jim McDonald. Photo supplied.
Meet Dax, a tiny fighter with a huge heart. Dumped near railway tracks at just seven weeks old, this little kitten has already overcome more than most. Now safe in foster care, Dax is slowly learning that not all humans are bad, and that love and kindness do exist.
Dax isn’t ready for adoption just yet, but Bowen and Collinsville Pet Rescue are now taking expressions of interest from kind-hearted families who’d love to welcome him into their home when the time comes.
His adoption fee is $170, which includes microchipping, vaccinations, flea, tick and worm treatments, and desexing when he’s old enough.
If you’d like to be part of Dax’s happy ending, email: bowencollinsville@gmail.com with your contact number and email address.
It is time to shed some light on one of Queensland’s most misunderstood residents, the crocodile.
Like most dangerous animals, much of the fear surrounding crocs comes from knowledge gaps and misinformation. A little information goes a long way to understanding the vital role they play in Queensland’s ecosystem.
Crocodiles are a fact of life in Australia, from Gladstone in Queensland, across the top and down to in Broome in Western Australia. We have plenty of them right here in the Whitsundays. In fact, the Proserpine River has the highest density of crocodiles in Queensland, approximately 5.5 crocs per km of river.
When people talk about Queensland’s croc population, odds are they are referring to the estuarine crocodile (also known as the saltwater crocodile). However, our state also has freshwater crocodiles or “freshies” can also be found in Queensland’s temperate northern waters.
The estuarine crocodile population in Queensland is estimated to be between 20,000–30,000.
They are primarily found on or near the banks of a river, with 90% of the population existing in areas less than 20m above sea level, in tidal reaches of rivers and associated inlets and wetlands, along beaches and offshore islands in the Great Barrier Reef as well as freshwater lagoons, rivers, and swamps up to hundreds of km inland from the coast.
Estuarine crocodiles are capable of long-distance movements, up to several hundred km, along the coast and up and down rivers. As a result, there is a possibility that crocodiles may be present in any water body (saltwater and freshwater) north from Gladstone.
An adult estuarine crocodile, which can reach lengths of over 5m, may prey on sea turtles, goannas, wallabies, cats, pigs, dogs, kangaroos, cattle, horses, buffalo, other crocodiles, and very occasionally, people.
Estuarine crocodiles are water’s edge predators that will ambush anything that moves at or near the water’s surface. They have very good eyesight, and a well-developed sense of smell which sometimes leads them long distances in search of prey.
Crocodiles are apex predators in their environments, playing a crucial role in regulating populations of fish, birds, and other animals. By regulating prey populations, crocodiles help prevent overgrazing and maintain the health and stability of their wetland and marine ecosystems.
Crocodiles create habitats for other animals through their burrowing and nest-building activities.
Crocodiles hold deep cultural significance for many First Nations groups across northern Australia, including Queensland.
Estuarine crocodiles were hunted to near extinction but are now protected under Queensland law due to their vulnerable status. The Queensland Government has implemented management plans to balance public safety with crocodile conservation. These plans involve monitoring crocodile populations, conducting research, and promoting "Crocwise" behaviours to minimize human-crocodile conflict.
Crocodile attacks are few and far between and can be largely attributed to reckless human behaviour rather than crocodile numbers. Culling only removes a protected and culturally significant species without addressing the root causes of these incidents, such as human actions and lack of community awareness. Culling can also lead to a false sense of safety in and around waterways in Croc Country, while the risk of crocodile attacks would remain.
Being Crocwise is the most effective way to reduce your risk of a crocodile attack and allows you to enjoy Queensland’s natural places safely. It means staying aware and choosing safe behaviours around the water in areas where there is crocodile habitat. For details, visit Be Crocwise | Environment, land and water | Queensland Government
Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Conservation Council.
Croc lurking in the water. Photo supplied.
Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc. is excited to announce a one-night-only event with adventurer and filmmaker Outback Mike at Eco Barge HQ in Airlie Beach on Sunday 13th July at 6:00pm.
Outback Mike (Michael Atkinson) will present his 85-minute adventure documentary, Outback Mike: The Great Reef Voyage, which follows his extraordinary 1,500km solo journey up the Great Barrier Reef in a homemade dugout canoe. Inspired by the historic survival story of a shipwrecked sailor from 1846, Mike retraced the perilous path to experience — and survive — the wild, remote coastline.
After the screening, Mike will give a 25-minute behind-the-scenes talk and Q&A, offering insights into the challenges, wildlife encounters and moments that didn’t make it into the film. His dugout canoe — the very one used in the expedition — will also be on display on the night.
As a proud boating town, this gripping tale of endurance, navigation and connection to sea country is sure to resonate with many local sailing enthusiasts and adventurers alike.
Tickets are limited — book now at www.outbackmike.com
Outback Mike with his canoe and mullet he speared using his woomera. Photo supplied.
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By Ruth Puddefoot
Have you ever been out on the water and spotted a sea turtle, dolphin or even a whale, shark or ray, and thought you should report it but weren’t quite sure how?
Eye on the Reef is a monitoring and assessment program that invites anyone visiting the Great Barrier Reef to help protect it. By recording sightings of marine animals, reef health and incidents, you’re contributing valuable data that helps build a clearer picture of what’s happening below the surface and guides how the Reef is managed.
There are many ways to get involved, and every contribution counts, whether you're a first-time tourist, regular day tripper, fisher, Marine Park ranger, marine tourism staff or scientist.
One of the easiest ways to participate is by downloading the free Eye on the Reef app. The app lets you quickly log animal sightings, reef conditions and incidents. For those who visit more frequently, have time to spare or marine knowledge to share, there are more detailed monitoring programs available, including options with training, all outlined on the Eye on the Reef website.
So keep your eye on the Reef, and next time you spot something amazing, you’ll know exactly where to log it!
https://www2.gbrmpa.gov.au/our-work/programs-and-projects/eye-on-the-reef
To see where whales and other marine life have been sighted click on this Eye on the Reef (EOTR) link https://eotr.gbrmpa.gov.au/sightings
If you sight any whales please enter them into EOTR or send the details to me to be enter on your behalf.
HOW TO RECORD WHALE (& OTHER MARINE LIFE) SIGHTINGS IN THE GBR
If you have sighted a whale and would like me to enter it into EOTR on your behalf, please send me the following details.
Post these details in the Whales of the Whitsundays Facebook Group or email to whalesofthewhitsundays@gmail.com
Contributed with thanks to Kellie Leonard - Master Reef Guide/Whales of the Whitsundays
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