Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Makayla Groves and Bianca O'Brien are part of the commercial property team at Blacks Real Estate, supporting landlords, tenants and business owners across the Mackay region. Working as Commercial Property Managers, Makayla and Bianca assist with the day-to-day management of commercial properties, helping clients navigate leasing and property management requirements across retail, office and industrial spaces. Based at the agency’s Wood Street office, the pair work closely with business clients throughout the region as part of Blacks Real Estate’s commercial division. Makayla Groves can be contacted on 07 4963 2522, while Bianca O’Brien can be contacted on 07 4963 2525. CAPTION: Bianca O'Brien works with Blacks Real Estate as a Commercial Property Manager. Photo supplied Makayla Groves works as a Commercial Property Manager with Blacks Real Estate. Photo supplied
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Visitors to Gooseponds Park can expect improved access and connectivity, with major upgrade works set to begin on a replacement pedestrian bridge, new fencing and a renewed shared pathway. The project, to be delivered by D&M Composites Pty Ltd, will include replacing the existing footpath between Valley and Hicks streets with a widened 2.5-metre shared pathway, enhancing links to the popular Gooseponds circuit. Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the project is another example of the Queensland Government delivering for the state and supporting important upgrades for the community. “That’s why we made Works for Queensland funding permanent, to back local councils with the funding they need to deliver vital projects like this for their communities.” A new bridge, parallel to Malcomson Street, will be constructed one-metre higher than the existing bridge to provide increased flood immunity. The existing bridge will remain in place while the new one is constructed directly behind it. Some short traffic delays are expected on Malcomson Street. Traffic control will be in place. Pedestrians can detour via Glenpark and Meadow streets while the work is completed. New fencing will be installed and 23 new trees will be planted along Hicks Street. Work is due to take place between mid-June and late September, weather permitting. Mackay Regional Council have said they apologise for any inconvenience caused by the works and appreciate the community’s patience and understanding. Jointly funded by Mackay Regional Council and the Queensland Government. For more information visit www.connectingmackay.gooseponds-park-upgrades Major upgrades at Gooseponds Park, including a new pedestrian bridge, widened shared pathway, fencing and tree planting, are set to improve access and connectivity, with works expected to run from mid-June to late September. Illustrative image supplied.
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Improved safety, stronger infrastructure and greater resilience are on the horizon for motorists travelling between Mackay and Sarina, with the latest round of Bruce Highway upgrades welcomed as a significant investment in the region's transport network. Member for Mirani, Glen Kelly, said the upgrades form part of the historic $9 billion Bruce Highway funding agreement between the Queensland and Federal governments and will deliver lasting benefits for road users across Central Queensland. Mr Kelly said the Bruce Highway remains one of the most vital transport routes within the Mirani electorate, supporting thousands of vehicle movements each day, including freight transport, daily commuters, tourists, school buses and emergency services. “Roads are consistently the number one issue raised with me by local residents, and that's not surprising when the Mirani electorate contains over 400 kilometres of the Bruce Highway stretching from the Mackay city gates right through to Raglan Creek,” Mr Kelly said. “These upgrades are about improving safety, reducing road trauma and ensuring Queenslanders can get where they need to go safely and reliably.” Mr Kelly highlighted the importance of the Mackay to Sarina section of the Bruce Highway, particularly its role in connecting local communities, industry and freight movements throughout the district. “The Mackay to Sarina corridor is one of the busiest sections of highway in regional Queensland. It supports our agricultural sector, our mining industry via the Port of Hay Point, and the thousands of people who travel this route every week for work and family commitments.” “That's why it is fantastic to see significant investment being directed towards projects such as pavement strengthening at both the northern and southern entrances to Sarina, along with ongoing works at Bakers Creek.” Works at Bakers Creek include bridge resurfacing and repairs to expansion joints, helping improve skid resistance and road performance during wet weather. Mr Kelly said, “Many locals were concerned about the significant deformation that had developed in the road surface at Spider Creek. “The upgrades delivered there, including road widening, wide centre-line treatments and audio tactile line marking, will provide a much safer journey for motorists.” While the investment is a welcome boost for the region, Mr Kelly acknowledged that additional improvements are still required. “For too long, Queenslanders have had to accepted that travelling on the Bruce Highway means dealing with potholes, narrow sections and safety concerns.” “These upgrades are a major step forward, but nobody is pretending the job is finished.” “We will continue advocating for further investment because regional Queensland deserves a Bruce Highway that is safe, resilient and fit for the growing freight and passenger task it carries every day.” “Every upgrade matters. Whether it's a major highway project, a bridge repair or pavement strengthening, these investments help keep people safe and keep our regional economy moving.” For more information on the Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program and Bruce Highway Upgrade Program projects, visit www.yoursay-projects.tmr.qld.gov.au/bruce-highway-priority-projects Bruce Highway upgrades at Bakers Creek and Sarina will boost safety and strengthen a key transport link for Central Queensland motorists. Photo supplied
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By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay A decade ago, Queensland Canegrowers was in the throes of a fierce defence of growers’ right to choice of sugar marketer. Now, the industry has been called to consider the future of the Code of Conduct that emerged from that industry debate. Growers retain an interest in the sugar produced from their sugarcane, and in the 2010’s, the industry moved away from a single desk marketer model with new marketers emerging. Some industry players wanted growers to market only through their miller. The situation was resolved through good support from some key politicians of the day – and particularly the then member for Dawson George Christensen – and through some strong and important industry tools including the 2015 “Real Marketing Choice” amendments to Queensland Sugar Industry Act, then at a Federal level in 2017 with the introduction of the Sugar Industry Code of Conduct. The Code of Conduct requires parties to negotiate in good faith, and protects growers’ ability to choose who markets their Grower Economic Interest sugar, and provides access to pre-contract arbitration if negotiations break down. This week, submissions closed in the review of the Code of Conduct, with the Australian Government to consider these and consider whether the Code be allowed to sunset as scheduled on 1 October 2027, or be retained as is, or with changes made. CANEGROWERS is committed to the Code being retained in its current form. In our view, the current Code continues to provide an essential and balanced framework that promotes fair dealing, transparency and workable commercial discipline across the sugar supply chain. The review is intended to examine whether the Code is meeting industry needs and objectives. The Australian Government has described the Code as supporting fairness and transparency in commercial arrangements, and that objective remains as important today as when the Code was introduced in 2017. The underlying market conditions that justified its introduction have not disappeared. In most cane-growing regions, growers cannot simply switch counterparties if negotiations fail. Cane is perishable, harvest windows are tight, and freight economics limit alternatives. In that setting, the Code performs an important public policy function by establishing minimum rules of conduct and a framework for resolving bargaining impasses. Those protections are not redundant; they are fundamental to a fair negotiating environment. Importantly, the current Code is not an excessive or unworkable intervention. It does not remove commercial risk, guarantee outcomes, or prevent parties from pursuing their legitimate commercial interests. Rather, it sets baseline expectations for conduct, transparency and process in circumstances where bargaining power is uneven. In our experience, that balance remains appropriate. The Code provides a disciplined structure for negotiation while still allowing commercial parties to reach outcomes that reflect local conditions and business realities. It is critical that the Federal Government upholds this important industry tool, allowing us to retain the Australian sugar industry’s good reputation as an equitable, stable player in global sugar trade. The Sugar Industry Code of Conduct protects growers’ ability to choose who markets their Grower Economic Interest sugar. Photo supplied
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A heartfelt Christmas in July event hosted by disability support group SNAGS brought smiles, music, and mid-year cheer to nearly 90 participants and support workers in Mackay last Saturday.
“We received a donation from the Rotary a few weeks back, so we planned on what we could do with the donation, which became Christmas in July,” said the group’s organiser Rainelle Peterstorfer.
With the support of Sally’s Curry Hut, who donated their time and cooked the meal, the SNAGS team brought the celebration to life with care and dedication.
“We crazily started organising presents and wrapping and got it sorted within about 10 days… and it turned out really amazing,” Rainelle said.
SNAGS, co-run by Rainelle Peterstorfer and Kathryn Andrews, is a not-for-profit volunteer-run group that brings people with disabilities, families, and support workers together for regular karaoke nights full of fun, laughter, and a whole lot of dancing and singing.
To support SNAGS, email snags.mackay@outlook.com or visit their Facebook page to purchase merch.
A joyful Christmas in July event hosted by SNAGS brought nearly 90 people together for music, gifts, and a free lunch. Photo source: SNAGS Karaoke Mackay (Facebook)
FRONT
Australia’s first private orbital rocket launch has been postponed again, with Gilmour Space Technologies confirming the Eris rocket will now lift off no earlier than July 27.
The delay follows operational setbacks and upper wind forecasts that ruled out a safe launch during the original July 16–20 window. The Gold Coast-based company announced the change in a social media update, saying they were “standing down from this week’s launch window” and shifting to the next opportunity.
The Eris rocket is a first-of-its-kind orbital launch vehicle developed entirely in Australia and is set to launch from the Bowen Orbital Spaceport in north Queensland. The team continues working through weather checks, range assessments, and final system reviews in coordination with national agencies including CASA, the Australian Space Agency, and Airservices.
“Rocket launches are complex,” Gilmour Space stated. “Delays are normal, especially for a first-of-its-kind testflight.”
Australia’s first private orbital rocket launch has been delayed again, with the test flight of the Eris rocket now scheduled for no earlier than July 27.
The updated target comes after operational delays set the team back by a day, and the latest upper wind forecasts ruled out a safe launch within the original window of July 16 to 20. Gilmour Space Technologies, the Gold Coast-based company behind the mission, announced the change in a social media update, stating they were “standing down from this week’s launch window,” and shifting focus to the next opportunity.
The adjustment comes as part of final preparations by Gilmour Space, which is behind the ambitious mission. The Eris rocket is a first-of-its-kind orbital launch vehicle developed entirely on Australian soil—and while excitement builds, the company is taking a cautious approach.
“Rocket launches are complex,” a Gilmour Space spokesperson stated on their Facebook page. “Delays are normal, especially for a first-of-its-kind testflight.”
The team is working through a series of weather assessments, range checks, and final system “go/no-go” reviews. Coordination with regulatory bodies and safety authorities is also a crucial part of the process. This includes the Australian Space Agency, CASA (Civil Aviation Safety Authority), Airservices Australia, and maritime agencies.
"We're carefully working through weather, range checks, final system go/no‑go reviews, and coordinating with the Australian Space Agency, CASA, Airservices, maritime authorities, and others," the spokesperson explained.
The Eris rocket represents a new era for Australia’s growing space industry. Designed and built by Gilmour Space, it’s intended to carry small satellites into low Earth orbit, offering an Australian solution to a rapidly growing global demand.
Despite the delay, enthusiasm remains high. Space industry supporters, science enthusiasts, and local communities—particularly in north Queensland—are eagerly watching as the countdown continues. The launch will take place from the company’s Bowen Orbital Spaceport, near the coastal town of Bowen in the Whitsundays.
Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said the proposed rocket launch was exciting for Bowen, the entire Whitsundays region, all of Queensland and the Nation.
“While we understand there has been delays, we are confident the rocket launches will be a great attraction for our region going forward," she said.
“This is rocket science – so delays are part of what happens – but we are so pleased that Gilmour Space Technologies chose Bowen as their launch pad.”
For those keen to follow along, Gilmour Space is providing real-time updates on the launch window via their mission page at gspace.com/missions. But for those who’d rather wait until the rocket’s in the sky, the company says they’ll also be sharing full launch coverage and results after the fact.
The launch is expected to be a major step toward establishing a sovereign space capability in Australia, something space experts say is critical for national innovation, security, and economic growth.
The company also shared a scenic image of the launch site, captured by a staff member in Bowen, to highlight the unique location from which Australia’s space ambitions are taking off.
With final checks underway and eyes on the weather, the countdown to lift-off continues—now tracking for July 27.
Launch date gets pushed back. Photo Credit: Steven Holden - Gilmour Space Technologies.
Hi Everyone,
Exciting news! The latest issue of Core Life and Tripping Magazine is hitting the stands this weekend—so keep an eye out for the brand-new edition.
A huge thank you to our incredible team for creating yet another amazing magazine—an impressive 116 pages of blood, sweat, and passion!
Speaking of blood and sweat, in this edition of Core Life, you can read about my Metabolic Diet journey with local nutritionist Bec Tarver.
Together with my husband, I spent a month with no sugar, no carbs, and no alcohol (okay, the no alcohol part may have only lasted two weeks!)— but we both experienced miraculous results.
During the challenge, our diets were scientifically tailored based on our blood test results, showing exactly what our bodies needed for optimal fuel. We also had to cut out snacking, eat only every five hours, and prepare each meal with precisely measured ingredients.
It was exciting, gruelling at times, but ultimately incredibly rewarding. I now feel better than I have in years—full of energy, healthy, and no more bloating!
You can read the full story in Core Life Magazine in my feature, “Bye-Bye Mum-Bod.”
In other exciting news, Core Life and Tripping Magazine has now doubled its coverage in Townsville, following our expansion into Hinchinbrook and Burdekin earlier this year.
There’s clearly a strong demand for a quality lifestyle and travel publication in regional areas—and now, with a growing gap in the Townsville market, we’re eager to meet that demand too.
This means that when you advertise in Core Life or Tripping Magazine, your business will now reach audiences from Cardwell in the north to Sarina in the south, as well as your existing local markets.
It’s a major step forward, and we’re thrilled to bring local businesses along with us. If you’d like to book an ad in Core Life or Tripping, please reach out to your local Sales Manager, Trish Jandt—her number is listed on the left-hand side of this page.
Rach
Quote of the Week: "Happiness is having better problems. Success is having better failures. Discipline is having better addictions" (Mark Manson)
No one knows a stringed instrument quite like Roger Buckmaster. For 60 years, strings have been his profession, from crafting violins to selling handcrafted banjos through a shop in Nashville. Now retired, Roger has been pulling on the heartstrings of the community by freely restoring cherished stringed instruments for those in need.
Now 81, Roger has spent a lifetime making and repairing violins, banjos and guitars. Trained in London, and originally from Loughborough, Roger has travelled across Australia helping schools, orchestras and musicians keep their instruments alive and well.
"I used to service all the orchestras and many schools. I had 200 schools on my books at one stage," he said. "We just went everywhere."
From Alice Springs to the Whitsundays, Roger’s generosity has struck a chord. His custom guitars and violins have been displayed in the Powerhouse Museum in Sydney, and one of his banjos even lives in a museum in Oklahoma.
"I must have donated them two dozen instruments from different makers... mainly from Australia, right back into the 20s and 30s."
While many have admired his work, one famous fan stands out.
"Rod Stewart wanted to buy one of my guitars and his manager said to me, name your price. But I said I hadn’t got one. It had already been sent to the Powerhouse Museum."
Currently travelling between Bowen, Burdekin, and Airlie Beach, Roger continues to offer his expertise to anyone in need, simply out of goodwill.
"Everyone knows where to find me. I can meet them at different places... they can always contact me."
From museum collections to helping out locals with beloved instruments, Roger’s kindness is music to the community’s ears.
If you need a stringed instrument serviced, Roger is available over the next month and is kindly happy to help. You can reach him directly on 0419 549 841.
Rogers guitar that Rod Stewart wanted now in Sydney Powerhouse museum.
A local family is facing one of the most challenging times of their lives, but their battle has been buoyed by an incredible wave of community support.
In February 2024, Brad Lindsay was diagnosed with Testicular Lymphoma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer. He spent the next nine months undergoing intensive chemotherapy and radiation, and by October 2024, he was considered in remission.
Tragically, several weeks ago, while at work, Brad suffered a seizure while driving and crashed his vehicle. A CT scan revealed that his cancer had returned, this time spreading to his brain. Devastatingly, Brad’s diagnosis was confirmed as Testicular Lymphoma Stage 4 Central Nervous System (CNS) Brain Cancer.
Due to the complexity of his condition, Brad will now undergo further chemotherapy, as well as an immunotherapy called CAR T-cell therapy — a highly specialised treatment that offers him the best chance of fighting the disease.
Brad has now moved to Townsville for treatment, and his loving wife Nikki has not left his side, becoming his full-time carer. Unfortunately, they have both had to give up their employment, and with Brad having used all his leave entitlements during last year’s battle, the financial stress has become a reality.
Brad and Nikki remain as positive as possible and are deeply grateful for the kind words of support and invaluable financial donations made through their GoFundMe page.
“I cannot describe the emotion that I personally have felt over the last couple of days from the outpouring of financial support you have all given,” shared Nikki on the GoFundMe page.
“It is extremely overwhelming for me to accept, but I am feeling very grateful and humbled to receive help from you all.
“This is a really hard time for our family, and it just amazes me that there are people we don’t even know who have donated to us.
“To every single one of you, please know that I am forever grateful for your support to help us through this devastating time.”
Friend of the family and GoFundMe organiser Ella Griffiths said, “If you’re able to donate, no matter the amount, your support will greatly help in reducing the financial stress they are facing.
“Brad and Nikki are kind, humble people who’ve always given so much to others — and now they need our help. Please help us to help them.”
Brad and Niki in happier times
Brad is going through the toughest battle of his life, but the community can help ease the financial burden at this difficult time
Brad and Niki with their family
Photos supplied
The twelfth annual Smart Arts Exhibition, will open this Friday 18 July and it will be showcasing art work from local artists of Cannonvale Smart Arts.
A special feature of this year’s event will be an auction of pieces from the exhibition’s African-themed section, with all proceeds going to Aid for Africa Down Under AFADU).
The works will be judged by renowned artist Carol Bell, with the live auction to follow, conducted by Brad Sobott of Taylors Property Specialists.
Suzi Hancock, founder of Smart Arts, has long supported AFADU, a registered charity that has been helping children in Zimbabwe for over two decades. AFADU funds the Lirhanzo Children’s Village, which cares for orphans affected by HIV/AIDS in the remote and disadvantaged Zimbabwe.
Cannonvale artist Pammie Harrison, who has served on the AFADU board since 2009 and has made nine visits to the village, praised Suzi’s commitment.
“I am elated that the ever generous, Suzi, a sponsor of orphans at the children’s Village for many years has come up with this fabulous way to raise money for the children’s on-going education,” she said.
More than 80 original artworks will be on display and available for purchase during the week-long exhibition. Two standout pieces in the auction include Mzimba (Rhino) and Chimp My Ride.
The opening night kicks off at 6pm on Friday 18 July at Smart Arts Studio, 8 Commerce Close, Cannonvale.
Tickets are $10, which includes wine and nibbles. The exhibit is on display for one week only
The Smart Arts Exhibition opens Friday 18 July, and will be on display for one week only. Artwork supplied
The Whitsunday Regional Council’s public consultation regarding Short Term Accommodation closes this weekend Sunday 20 July 2025.
Open from 11 June Council has asked the community to ‘Have your say” relating to Council’s scheme.
The Whitsunday Regional Council announced change to the Whitsunday Planning Scheme 2017 following resident's concerns that short term accommodation was conflicting with the availability of housing for long-term residents.
Council said that the changes were to help better manage short-term accommodation, within the Low Density Residential zone, hoping to find the right balance between supporting tourism and protecting residential amenity and housing supply for locals.
Council had identified 10 precincts in which Short Term Accommodation would be allowed and supported, these included Shute Harbour, Brisk Bay, Dingo Beach, Hydeaway Bay, Conway Beach, Wilson Beach, parts of Airlie Beach, North Mandalay, and Bowen, Queens Beach, Grays Bay and Horseshoe Bay.
The recent changes will not change the following:
• Home based businesses - e.g. letting a room alongside permanent residents living in the home.
• STA within the Low-medium density residential zone or other non-residential zones where it is currently permitted, subject to requirements
• STA that already have planning approval in any zone.
Council is seeking public consultation on the new amendment.
You can have your say until Sunday 20 July, when council close the ‘Have your say’ and begin consideration.
• Online via a registered account on Yoursay - via the online survey below
• In writing to Council, by mail or in person to a Customer Service Centre
• Email to planning.submissions@whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au, including the name and address of each person who is making the submission.
Accomodation in Airlie Beach. Stock image
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It’s fantastic to see Whitsunday Coast Airport (WCA) reaching new heights and truly flying high. In the past year, we welcomed over 522,000 passengers, smashing our previous record and cementing WCA as one of Australia’s top regional gateways.
But this milestone is about much more than numbers. The airport is a powerful driver of our regional economy, creating local jobs, opening doors for small businesses, and strengthening our tourism and hospitality sectors. It also means better connectivity for everyone, whether you are a business owner, a worker, or visiting family and friends.
This success highlights the Whitsundays’ incredible appeal, not just as a holiday destination but as a vibrant, thriving place to live, work, and build a future.
Whitsunday Coast Airport is a fully self-funded, Council-owned asset that operates without ratepayer subsidies. It delivers strong financial returns, which are reinvested into essential services and infrastructure to keep our region moving forward. Every dollar of profit supports projects that make the Whitsundays an even better place for all of us.
This record-breaking year is a win for our economy, our tourism industry, and our entire community. I want to thank our dedicated airport team, airline partners, and of course, all of you who continue to support this vital part of our region.
Beyond passenger numbers, our team remains focused on providing a seamless, high-quality experience for everyone, whether they are heading on holiday or returning home. Our steady growth from 280,000 passengers in 2021 to over 522,000 today shows what we can achieve with careful planning, smart investment, and strong community support.
Importantly, the airport is much more than a tourism hub. It supports business travel and freight services, keeping our region connected and competitive, and stands as a true symbol of how strategic investment can drive economic growth and strengthen our community for years to come.
As part of this forward focus, I’m also excited to share that the airport has joined the Containers for Change program. By collecting and recycling eligible drink containers, the airport and other Council business units are expected to raise around $80,000 each year.
This isn’t just about recycling, it’s about turning small actions into big community benefits. We’re exploring options to direct these funds to local non-profits, sporting clubs, and grassroots groups across Airlie Beach, Proserpine, Bowen, and Collinsville.
Partnering with a Bowen-based contractor keeps jobs and expertise local, backing our businesses and delivering practical environmental outcomes.
Additionally, our airport is part of pioneering efforts to trial sustainable aviation fuel through Virgin Australia’s partnership with Viva Energy that helps reduce emissions and keeps us at the forefront of industry change.
When I reflect on these milestones, I’m reminded that our airport is more than a gateway. It’s an engine for economic growth, environmental progress, and community pride.
The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry has released the next wave of program highlights for the 2025 Whitsunday Business Conference, showcasing eight practical breakout sessions designed to give local businesses real tools, insights, and strategies to grow and adapt in a changing regional economy.
The conference—scheduled for Thursday 28 August at TAFE Queensland’s Whitsunday Campus—will feature two more rounds of concurrent sessions. Each is designed to help participants choose the topic most relevant to their business goals, covering areas such as finance, workforce, marketing, leadership, customer service, and tendering.
At 1:15pm, the second round of sessions will begin. Highlights include a financial deep dive in Ask An Expert: Money Matters for Modern Business, where a panel of six regional finance professionals will unpack topics including structure, compliance, lending, superannuation, and insurance. Panellists include representatives from Rural Financial Counselling Service, Accountancy Plus Whitsundays, Eclipse Financial Planning, Bendigo Bank, Option Insurance Brokers and Smooth Sailing Finance Consulting.
Other sessions in the 1:15pm block include International Recruitment & Migration, presented by Alana Hopkins from Workforce Abundance, and Unlocking Motivation with leadership coach Brian Ward of BRIAN8. Rounding out the workshop options is The Power of Storytelling, led by Rachael Smith, Editor in Chief of Mackay and Whitsunday Life and Core Life Magazine, who will share how personal branding can connect businesses more deeply with their community.
At 2:00pm, the third round of concurrent sessions will offer another tailored learning opportunity. Ask An Expert: Local Marketing That Works will see marketing specialists Melanie Laas (EMME Influence), Courtney Casey (Southern Cross Austereo), and Trish Jandt (Mackay and Whitsunday Life) share strategies for social media, print, radio, and digital success.
Businesses looking to secure more contracts won’t want to miss Tendering: Top Ten Tips with Ros Weche from the Department of State Development and Infrastructure, while The Dying Art of Customer Service will explore 12 practical rules that helped presenter Rick Brown build a $20 million business. Meanwhile, HR specialist Mark Lipkin will guide attendees through compliance and strategy in Ask An Expert: Smarter People Management for Small Business.
With limited seats remaining, attendees are encouraged to register soon and take advantage of the ability to personalise their conference experience. For full program details and tickets, visit: www.whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au/whitsundays-business-conference
As a business owner I spent many years, 10s of 1000s of dollars, and a lot of lost time on training my teams and seeing no difference.
Big spend – zero shift. Sound familiar? If you’re like me you gave up. So why doesn’t it work
Learning, growing and creating change takes intent. It’s not just an investment in time and money, it requires ongoing curiosity and followup by management to imbed new learnings until they stick. Contact Shiift to help build a training program that works for you. We create long-term programs to create sustainable positive change and even step in to help create accountability when you’re just too busy.
Contributed with thanks to Judy Porter of Shiift
Coral Sea Marina’s Better Boating Expo, held on Friday, 11th July, welcomed a vibrant crowd of locals, visitors, and members of the boating community for a day packed with education, entertainment, and environmental advocacy at the Coral Sea Marina Gardens.
From safety at sea to sustainability tips and local reef knowledge, the expo offered a fun-filled and informative day for all ages. Families and children, in particular, were thrilled by the live life raft demonstration presented by Volunteer Marine Rescue Whitsundays, which gave them the rare chance to "hop on board" a real raft and imagine the experience of being adrift at sea.
Many young visitors also eagerly took part in the safety flare deployment, tested their skills at Mainstay Sailing’s rope station, and learned about the fragile beauty of the Great Barrier Reef from the passionate team of local Master Reef Guides.
“While guests are enjoying the reef, our Master Reef Guides work with tourism operators so guests enjoy the reef, they don't touch the reef, don't stand on the reef, remove all their rubbish, make sure they don't bring pests onto the islands — all of those different things. But most importantly, we connect them to the reef, and hopefully we send people home wanting to look after it and protect it,” said James Unsworth, Project Manager of the Master Reef Guide Programme.
Visitors were also invited to head down to the water and explore VMR1, Volunteer Marine Rescue Whitsunday’s rescue vessel, and Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service’s barge, and to chat with the crew on board.
The event successfully brought together an inspiring range of organisations including Queensland Parks and Wildlife, Maritime Safety Queensland, Tangaroa Blue, Whales of the Whitsundays, and many more passionate local businesses — all offering engaging presentations and hands-on experiences aimed at promoting safer, smarter, and more sustainable boating.
Maritime Safety Queensland Marine Officer Tristan Carlson explained the changes made to the life jacket laws in Queensland:
“If you're boating alone in a vessel under 4.8 metres, you are required to wear a life jacket now. And also, if you have a child under 12 years old in an open area of a boat, they're also required to wear a life jacket,” he said.
“There've been a few changes here, and we're trying to get people to understand that. We believe that education is the best way to achieve that.”
The Better Boating Expo also served as the official launch of Coral Sea Marina’s new Better Boating Guide – Our Guide to Greener Recreational Boating. Designed for everyone who spends time on the water, this comprehensive guide provides tips on reducing environmental impact, managing waste, protecting the marine environment, and being a positive ambassador for the ocean.
“It was incredible to see such a strong turnout from our local community and visitors alike, all eager to learn and engage with the marine environment,” said Joscelyn O’Keefe, Head of Marketing and Business Development at Coral Sea Marina.
“The Better Boating Expo is a reminder of the positive impact we can have when we come together to share knowledge, encourage sustainable choices, and foster a culture of responsibility on our waters.”
With face painting, ice cream, expert advice, and hands-on experiences, the Better Boating Expo proved to be both educational and enjoyable — reinforcing Coral Sea Marina’s commitment to environmental stewardship and community connection.
For more information or to download the Better Boating Guide, visit the Coral Sea Academy website at coralseaacademy.com.
Safety Flare Demonstration at the Better Boating Expo. Photo supplied
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More than 30 people gathered at the Proserpine Swimming Pool on Saturday, June 28, to honour the extraordinary legacy of Des and Janet Erricker, two beloved community members whose selfless contributions helped shape generations of local swimmers.
The unveiling of a commemorative plaque was a long-overdue gesture recognising the couple’s efforts in not only helping to fund and establish the original Proserpine pool, but also teaching countless children to swim, completely free of charge.
Des, saw the need for a public swimming pool and, with community support, made it happen. Together with Janet, they ran daily swimming lessons before and after work, coached children in stroke technique, and helped form the Proserpine Swimming Club alongside other parents.
The couple did more than teaching children how to swim, they would pay for swimmers if parents could not afford it and they would also pay for accomodation when chidlren travelled to carnivals or events with the swimming club.
The couple’s daughters — Robyn, Lynn and Gail led the unveiling and spoke movingly of their parents’ devotion to the community. Past club members and their families, previous students all shared fond memories, with many remarking on how the Errickers’ kindness left a lasting impression.
The ceremony concluded with light refreshments and laughter under the pool’s shaded area. It was a fitting tribute to a couple who gave so much, and asked for nothing in return.
The Plaque honouring the couple is now on display. Photo supplied
I came up to North Queensland after the war where I met an old sailor in Mackay who asked, “Why don’t you come and get a job on the boats on Hayman.” It was when Ansett had just bought the island … so there was a lot of construction to be done and materials to be transported.
When I arrived, accommodation was in tents with fly sheets and floorboards in rows for all the workers. There was a ranch house where the meals were served.
It was a great time to work there … a good life, free and easy, just what was needed after the war. You could come and go as you liked, go fishing for two or three days and then go back to a job. George Bailey, a carpenter on Hayman, built himself a little fourteen-footer and on occasion would tell Bill Ponchoy, the foreman, “The weather’s too good to be working.” So, they would take four days to sail down to Lindeman and back. Then start work again. I sailed on the ‘Sea Prince’ which won the first and second Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Races. … We were away for about a month but came back and walked straight into a job.
We would be three to four weeks on shore digging drains, putting in windows and the like and then three to four weeks on the barges bringing in the materials. It was well before Shute Harbour was built and the trucks would go on to the beach at Shingley carrying the stuff which we would load up on the barges. All of which was done by hand. There were no forklifts in those days.
Annie Lewis ran the old store at Cannonvale Beach at the time. She would watch for the barge coming into Shingley and by the time the boys had walked over she would have a meal waiting for them. She would call them ‘her barge boys’. Sometimes, she would even go and pick oysters for them.
Transport from the Flying Boat to the hotel
Before the Shute Harbour jetty was built, guests would come in on Catalinas and Sunderlands and land outside the reef where the water was not always flat calm. The dinghies had to get under the wing of the Catalina to get people out of the door and into the boat. They had to hang onto the open door … with the swell taking them up and down. As the boat came up level, you’d shout, “Right oh then jump.” Invariably the women would hesitate. They came up from Sydney all dressed up with high heels. One of them had a fur coat. She stepped straight into the sea in between the boat and plane. We hauled her out like a drowned rat … There were no life jackets. Then they would have to climb out of the dinghy … into the four-wheel drives to get ashore. If it was raining, we had an old tarpaulin that had been used to cover a cement truck.
There were lots of whales … which caused difficulty when the Catalinas took off. Sometimes a whale would emerge just in front as the plane went to take off. You had to try and shoo them off or you would hear the engine scream as the plane tried to back off. On the motor boat from Shingley, you would have to look out for whales. The boats wouldn’t hurt the whales but they could knock a hole in the boat. Once a thirty-footer was sunk by a whale.
In all they were good times, with lots of fun and not too many regulations.
Story and photos courtesy of the late Jack Tyree (25/12/1916 – 20/03/ 2017)
Jack Tyree at Hayman Jetty. Photo supplied.
Catalinas were used to transfer people to the islands of Hayman and Daydream. Photo supplied.
For over 15 years, long-time locals Marie Bailey and Marg Hurst have been the warm and welcoming faces greeting visitors at Bowen’s iconic foreshore information booth located by Bowen’s Little Mango.
As two of Bowen Tourism and Business's longest-serving volunteers, the pair have become familiar figures for travellers seeking insights into the region's hidden gems. Whether it’s recommending a stroll along the jetty, a swim at Horseshoe Bay, or a scenic visit to Flagstaff Hill and Mullers Lagoon, Marie and Marg are passionate about promoting their hometown.
“We get visitors from all over the world, and it’s a history lesson in the making,” said Marie.
The pair also help direct visitors to Bowen’s famed murals, which reflect the town’s rich history, and offer directions to the Whitsunday islands.
“I just love meeting people and telling them where to go,” Marg said.
“We have a beautiful town here and it’s lovely to spread the word.”
Marie is also a volunteer at the local museum and says their deep knowledge of Bowen’s past helps enhance the visitor experience.
Both volunteers’ love Bowen, and their love for the town shines through in their long-standing voluntary work.
Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said all volunteers are an integral part of the organisation.
“We simply couldn’t do what we do without the volunteers welcoming visitors each and every week,” she said.
“They are a wealth of local knowledge and are passionate about the region.
“Marie and Margie are our longest serving volunteers and do an excellent job at the information booth at Bowen’s Front Beach which is entirely run by volunteers.”
Marie and Margie have been volunteering for more than 15 years. Photo sourced: Facebook
It’s been a fantastic start to the school holidays in The Whitsundays. Occupancy is up on the same time last year, and it’s been great to see so many families out making memories, whether it’s a reef trip, a sunset sail, a mainland adventure or hopping between the islands.
We’re also celebrating our biggest year ever for website traffic, with 1.16 million page views- up 10% on the year before. Bounce rate is also down 5%, meaning visitors are staying for longer and engaging more deeply with our content, which are great signs for both our brand and local businesses.
And finally, a quick date for your calendar: the 2025 Whitsundays Tourism Awards will be held on Saturday, 18 October. It’s always one of the most special nights of the year as we recognise the hard work, creativity and passion behind our region’s success. Tickets will be on sale soon - we’d love to see you there!
Contributed with thanks to Tim Booth, CEO, Tourism Whitsundays
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