Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
OPINION PIECE from the office of Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox There is no question that immigration into Australia is out of control. The government’s numbers are too high, and standards are too low. A sustainable migration program must consider our capacity to provide housing, healthcare, infrastructure and the essential services everyone relies on, and Australians must come first. But Labor’s decision to target Working Holiday Makers Visa holders is not the answer. These people filling vital gaps in our workforce are not the cause of Australia’s housing crisis. In many cases, they are living in accommodation provided by the very businesses that employ them. The National Farmers’ Federation has made the point that Working Holiday Makers generally stay in hostels, caravan parks or purpose-built on-farm accommodation. Resorts usually have on-site staff quarters. They are not the source of Australia’s housing shortage. So why is Labor making it harder for them to come here, when these workers fill genuine jobs that regional Australia holds? Working Holiday Makers fill approximately one in seven farm jobs nationally and are particularly important during peak agricultural periods, which for Dawson, it is right now! Farmers rely on these workers to plant, pick, pack and harvest the produce that ends up on Australian supermarket shelves. Having run one of Australia’s largest tomato farms, at times Working Holiday Makers made up more than 50 per cent of my workforce. Without them, much of our crop simply would not have been picked in time and rotted in the paddock. Some may say, why not employ the Australians who don’t have a job and are on “the dole”? Can I say, this does not work. Most farmers will employ Aussies over travelling backpackers, but many either don’t want to do the work or don’t turn up after the first day. Who picks the fruit or veggies then? Farmers are already warning that visa delays are leaving them without workers. The NFF says approvals that once took days are now facing processing times of up to three months, and this time frame can be the difference between harvesting a crop or losing it. That should concern every Australian already feeling the pressure at the supermarket checkout. The same problem is playing out in tourism. Across Dawson, Working Holiday Makers are an important part of the workforce supporting tourism and hospitality, particularly in the Whitsundays. They help fill shifts, work in hotels and restaurants, support tour operators and keep businesses running through their busiest periods. They also contribute to the local economy. They spend money on food, fuel, attractions and tours, supporting the small businesses that depend on a strong visitor economy. That is why tourism and business leaders across North Queensland are raising the alarm. They understand what happens when a regional business cannot get enough staff: opening hours are reduced, and services are cut, creating a downward spiral. We do need to reduce migration to sustainable levels. We need stronger integrity measures, and we need to crack down on rorts. But responsible migration policy means understanding which parts of the system are creating pressure and which parts are helping Australia function. Working Holiday Makers are not the problem. They are part of the workforce solution for regional. Australia. People have had a gutful of watching their standard of living go backwards. Groceries, fuel, housing and everyday expenses are already putting enormous pressure on families. The last thing Australians need is another reckless policy that makes it harder to produce food, harder to run regional businesses and harder for tourism operators to find the workers they need.
Read the full storySomeone sold a house in Sydney last week for $9 million less than they bought it for four or five years ago. The sellers had bought the property in Sydney’s eastern suburbs for $29 million and sold it for $20 million in a sale forced by their bank. I imagine the sellers are a little disappointed by the government’s decisions on negative gearing and capital gains tax and feeling pretty hurt by the increased interest rates. Australia’s interest rates are on the rise and are now sitting at levels not seen since 2011. Increased cost of living is hurting people around the country and interest rates are playing into that. But the impact of interest rates is not felt evenly around the country. The far-higher property prices mean people in the major cities suffer much more than regional areas with the rates increase. That is certainly not to say people in Mackay are unaffected by the cost of living; it’s just that the impact of interest rates increase on a $400,000 mortgage is much less than the impact on a $1m mortgage. There are other Mackay-specific factors that are in play when discussing the current housing market. The big factor is the role of coal in our economy. Most of the coal extracted and exported from our region is coking coal, which is used to make steel. The price of coking coal is around $280 a tonne, which is about 50 per cent up. Good activity in the coal market translates to good news for the Mackay economy, as it is an economic engine that other cities and regions just don’t have. Good activity in Bowen Basin flows throughout the Mackay economy; Paget workshops, transport, suppliers and related businesses all benefit. But so do other, non-mining-related businesses as they benefit from the general confidence and spending that goes on. The strong mining activity also means mines need to keep their staff levels up and that means more people moving to Mackay. Of course, Mackay is much more than a coal mining town but if the coal sector is going well those other areas definitely benefit. It is a confidence boost for Mackay people looking to get into the housing market and those wanting to upgrade or downsize. It also means continuing strong demand from people wanting to rent a property and it will be interesting to see what sort of activity that creates from investors. Investors have walked away from the big-city markets because they can no longer use negative gearing on established properties that do not have a sufficient yield to be positively geared. Negative gearing has never been a big thing in Mackay because our prices are lower and rental returns continue to be strong so many investors have a positively geared property. Around the country everyone is nervous about the state of play and the probability of more interest rate rises. But strong coal prices and an economy that is performing well mean Mackay might just be presenting an opportunity for buyers and sellers that doesn’t exist in other parts. I remember when national confidence was flying high and Mackay prices were going up significantly that many buyers were saying “I wish we had bought a while ago when the market wasn’t so hot”. I’m not armed with a crystal ball so I’m not here to tell you what is going to happen but I suspect there is a very good buying window right now for those looking for an opportunity.
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A local Mackay and Sarina based model has created a dress out of newspapers, including Mackay Life, for her upcoming pageant, representing her region and hometown on the runway as she vies for Miss Diamond International in Brisbane. Zoe Place will be competing this weekend in the three-day event, beginning this Friday 2nd October and ending on Sunday 4th October. The young model spent around a month creating her eco-fashion outfit, using old newspapers as the main material and transforming them into a bodice, skirt and flowers. Red elements were also incorporated into the design to give the dress a bold and glamorous pageant feel. Zoe said, “The entire concept was really about taking something that would normally be thrown away and turning it into something beautiful and meaningful.” Her eco-fashion creation will form part of a busy weekend in Brisbane, with the Miss Diamond International event including photo shoots, interviews, an eco-fashion show and the final pageant. Zoe has been preparing for the event by practising her strut and walking, preparing for interviews and getting comfortable in the different outfits she will wear throughout the weekend. Alongside her love of modelling, pageantry has also provided Zoe with a platform to raise awareness about causes close to her heart, including mental health, while fundraising for Beyond Blue. “Pageantry has given me more of a platform to combine my love for modelling with something that is really important to me.” “When I first started, I was more nervous about putting myself out there and worried about what others would think about me – but I’ve changed a lot through my journey in pageantry.” “Pageantry has also taught me that it’s not about how you look on stage. It’s about the person you are when you step off it.” “Every woman has their own unique journey and that journey is something we should all be really proud of.” “To me, it represents confidence, empowerment, kindness, and using your voice to make a difference.” Zoe said she was looking forward to meeting the other contestants, making new connections and creating memories. “I’m definitely looking forward to meeting all the new contestants and making new connections and creating memories that I will carry with me for a lifetime.” While Zoe hopes to eventually move to the city, her sights are set even further afield, with a dream of one day walking in New York Fashion Week. Mackay and Sarina local Zoe Place has created an eco-fashion dress from recycled newspapers, including Mackay Life, ahead of her Miss Diamond International pageant in Brisbane. Photos supplied
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Trends, reels and the endless cycle of always wanting more has quietly bombarded the minds of countless social media users of all ages, but one former Mackay local has made it her mission to help others understand the effects of social media and find practical ways to break free from online addiction. Alexis Zahner is in Mackay over the next week to teach upcoming generations about social media and the effects it can have on the mind, particularly on identity, self-discovery, as well as the marketing strategies that get viewers hooked and influence their decisions. It is something Alexis knows first-hand can be a useful tool, but also a great disruption to authenticity and the world as we see and experience it. Alexis will hold a free meet and greet and book launch today, Friday 2nd October, at 5.30pm at the Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club, where she will give a talk and answer questions relating to her debut book, Real: Reconnecting to Yourself in a World of Likes and Lies. A former Mackay girl, Alexis spent the past 15 years working across business psychology, marketing and media, with her interest in social media influence beginning during her university studies at James Cook University in Townsville. Her own experience as a social media user, travel blogger and influencer eventually led her to question how much of her identity, decisions and values were being shaped by what she saw online. “The tipping point came for me about 3 years ago when I had this feeling that I couldn't separate influence from my own personal decision making,” she said. “I couldn't separate my own likes, dislikes, values, relationships from what I was being exposed to and being influenced by online.” “I found that I needed to take some time away from social media to recalibrate what was important to me and sort of reconnect and come back to myself.” Alexis said she understood the feeling of questioning who you are outside of social media. “I know what it feels like to live a life under the influence of social media and have that existential crisis of thinking to yourself, who am I? What do I like? What's the kind of life I want to live? and struggling to separate myself from influence.” Alexis is particularly passionate about reaching teenagers, who she says are in an important stage of identity development, and will share this message with Mackay high school students during her upcoming school talks. “Teenagers are really easily influenced by social media. So it's a really important age where we start educating them – not just on the mental health repercussions of things like social media and how it shortens their attention span, but how it actually influences who they become.” “If you're asking yourself these questions, it's not your fault. Social media is actually geared to create this impact on you.” Alexis encourages people of all ages to “start expanding beyond what you see on the platform.” “Dare to indulge in the things that you've always been curious about or things you used to love,” she said. “Don't be afraid to put the phone down to let yourself be curious and have fun.” What: Alexis Zahner's 'Real' Book launch When: 5.30pm Friday 2nd October 2026 Where: Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club Former Mackay local and author Alexis Zahner is returning home to share her experiences with social media and her debut book, Real. Photo supplied
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Australia’s rental market is under mounting pressure as a record number of property investors exit the sector, driven by rising costs, legislative uncertainty, and concerns over proposed federal tax reforms.
The 2025 Annual Property Investor Sentiment Survey, released today by the Property Investment Professionals of Australia (PIPA), shows that 16.7 per cent of investors sold at least one property in the past year – up from 14.1 per cent last year and 12.1 per cent in 2023.
This marks the highest rate of investor sales since the question was first introduced in the survey in 2022. At that time, about 17 per cent of investors indicated they had sold at least one investment property in the previous two years – or 8.5 per cent annually.
“This isn’t just a continuation of last year’s trend – it’s an acceleration,” PIPA Chair Lachlan Vidler said.
“We’re seeing a growing number of long-term investors walking away, and the implications for renters are severe. The private rental market is losing stock at a time when demand is surging, and policy uncertainty is only making things worse.”
Rental stock shrinking
Only 42 per cent of properties sold remained in the rental pool because they were bought by other investors. Meanwhile, 37 per cent were purchased by owner-occupiers and 25 per cent by first-home buyers, effectively removing them from rental circulation.
“This shift is structural, not temporary,” Mr Vidler said.
“Once a property leaves the rental market, it rarely returns. We’re watching the slow dismantling of Australia’s rental supply, and tenants are paying the price through rising rents and reduced availability.”
State-by-state breakdown
Queensland continues to lead the nation in investor exits, with 35.5 per cent of respondents selling at least one property in the state – up from 33.4 per cent last year. Victoria followed at 30 per cent, while New South Wales saw a sharp decline to 11.8 per cent, down from 25.4 per cent in 2024.
Investor sentiment deteriorating
The survey highlights a growing unease among investors, particularly around proposed federal reforms.
When asked whether they would continue investing in property if negative gearing was altered, 53 per cent said they would stop investing. An additional 25 per cent were unsure, leaving just 22 per cent willing to continue.
Similarly, if the CGT discount were reduced to 25 per cent after 12 months of ownership, 35 per cent of investors said they would exit the market. Another 29 per cent remained undecided and 36 per cent said they would continue investing.
“These figures show a clear erosion of confidence,” Mr Vidler said.
“The mere suggestion of changes to negative gearing or CGT is enough to destabilise investor sentiment. These aren’t fringe concerns – they’re mainstream fears held by thousands of everyday Australians who provide rental housing.”
Rising costs and selling pressure
The top reasons for selling included reducing overall debt exposure (41.7 per cent), rising holding and compliance costs (40.4 per cent), and increased land tax and government charges (32.9 per cent).
Operational costs also continue to climb. This year, 39 per cent of investors reported increases of between 11 and 20 per cent, compared to 34 per cent last year. More than 21 per cent said costs had risen by 21 to 41 per cent.
Despite these pressures, most investors are absorbing costs. A full 65 per cent said they had passed on just 10 per cent or less of their increased costs through rent hikes.
“This shows the resilience and responsibility of Australia’s property investors,” Mr Vidler said.
“They’re doing their best to shield tenants from rising costs, but there’s a limit. Without meaningful support, many will be forced to reconsider their position.”
Investor sentiment around selling is also intensifying. This year, 36 per cent of respondents said it was a good time to sell – up from 29 per cent last year. The future risk of federal reforms was the top reason (51.3 per cent), followed by compliance costs and land tax.
A fragile optimism
Despite the challenges, nearly 60 per cent of investors believe the next 12 months is a good time to invest in residential property – down slightly from 63 per cent last year.
“There’s still belief in the fundamentals of property investment, but that belief is more fragile,” Mr Vidler said.
“If governments want to preserve the integrity of the rental market, they must listen to investors, provide clarity, and avoid knee-jerk reforms that risk doing more harm than good. As Australia grapples with housing affordability and rental shortages, the voice of the investor has never been more critical.”
PIPA Chair Lachlan Vidler. Photo supplied
Two life-changing Lotto tickets were sold in the Whitsundays within just seven days of each other. Hickmott's Supa News in Bowen sold a $2.5 million winning ticket on Saturday, 6 September, and News Whitsundays at Whitsunday Plaza in Cannonvale sold a $2 million winning ticket on Saturday, 12 September.
The Whitsundays is buzzing with excitement this week following the announcement that two winning Lotto tickets valued at over $2 million each were purchased locally.
The ticket sold at Hickmott's Supa News in Bowen remains unclaimed as of Wednesday, 17 September, sparking speculation it may have been purchased by a visitor unaware of their good fortune.
“We were so excited when we first found out,” said Angela Stevens, manager of Hickmott’s Supa News.
“It’s so nice to have another major lottery win come our way, as it’s been a few years since our last one! The winner could be anyone, especially with all the visitors in town for the Don River Dash and Father’s Day.
"While it would be great if a local won, we’ll be happy for whoever it is.”
Meanwhile, the $2 million ticket purchased at News Whitsundays has already been claimed.
The lucky ticket holder only discovered their win when they brought the ticket in to be checked.
“They had no idea they’d won until we told them, and I think they were in shock!” said Renee from News Whitsunday. “It was won by a local, which is great because that money stays in our region.”
Congratulations to the lucky winner from everyone in the community.
If you have an unchecked Lotto ticket hiding at the bottom of your bag, bring it into a local retailer—you could be the missing ticket holder and $2.5 million richer!
Renee and Michelle from News Whitsunday at Whitsunday Plaza in Cannonvale where a $2 million winning Lotto ticket was sold over the weekend. Photo credit: Rachael Smith.
Hi everyone, I hope you’ve all had a great week.
Last Friday we sent our latest editions of Core and Tripping to print. The build-up is always exciting but stressful, and the following week the whole office feels the relief—it’s nice to catch a breath before diving into the next edition.
From Monday, Core and Tripping will be hitting stands around town. This edition of Core was an especially exciting one for me. As Rachael mentioned in a previous editor’s note, I had the chance to interview Johnathan Thurston. I come from a Rugby Union background myself, but I still watched him play in Origin, and it was awesome to have a chat with him.
Although I prefer Union, I was still nervous and felt a little bit of pressure on the journey up to Townsville.
The Johnathon Thurston Academy is dedicated to supporting disadvantaged and Indigenous youth, helping them build confidence, skills, and cultural identity. Programs cover education, employment readiness, leadership, and mental health, with initiatives encouraging goal-setting and positive role models.
Built on JT’s core values of confidence, courage, and self-belief, the Academy places a strong emphasis on community and family engagement.
He said the long-term vision is to see the Academy expand nationally, and he wants to give more young Australians the chance to unlock their potential and pursue their dreams.
Leaving the interview with JT, Rach, Trish and I felt inspired and proud—not only for having interviewed a high-profile ex-athlete known across the country, but also for what it meant for Core Magazine.
Soon we’ll begin the creative process for the November/December editions of Core and Tripping magazines, which will feature Year in Review pieces and Pets in Business. I always enjoy this issue; seeing our political figures’ years spotlighted in articles is one of my favourite reads.
Quote of the Week: "Pressure? What pressure? Pressure is for tyres." - Alan Shearer
The Whitsunday Lions Club have once again shown their commitment to the community, raising more than $12,000 at their annual fourth Charity Golf Day, hosted by Whitsunday Green. The funds have been donated to the Proserpine Hospital and the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN).
The Proserpine Hospital announced that with the donation they will be purchasing a Patient Transfer Scale, a large board for transporting patients with an integrated weighing scale and a size chart. They also confirmed they will be purchasing a ‘Tweegy’ wheelchair, designed to have better manoeuvrability, a better braking system, a stackable design and more.
Golf Committee Chairman Alan Gravelle said the Whitsunday Lions Club has supported the Proserpine Hospital in the past and consistently help them out. He also added that the Golf Day is always a highlight for the club. “The Golf Day is always a great day and I am looking forward to more Charity Golf Days in the future,” he said.
Assistant Golf Manager at Whitsunday Green John Miller said it was his first time acting as Assistant Manager for the Charity Golf Day, but everything went smoothly.
“Over 180 players participated, it was a great success and hopefully next year we'll have a bigger course,” he said.
With record participation, strong community backing, and meaningful donations directed to vital services, the annual Charity Golf Day has once again proven to be more than just a sporting event. It is a tradition that brings people together, supports essential healthcare, and strengthens wellbeing across the Whitsundays.
The Whitsunday Lions Club at Whitsunday Green donation $9,500 to the Proserpine Hospital
The Whitsunday Lions club also donated $3000 to WSPN
Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
On Monday 15 September, 24 people took the pledge and the next step to become Australian Citizens.
Held at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre (PEC) with Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins, Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox, Whitsunday Regional Council Councillor Clay Bauman, and Uncle Leo Gabey present on the day.
Mayor Collins welcomed the new citizens, sharing what it means to be Australian and affirming that they are now part of this vibrant and enriching culture.
"Australia is built on values like fairness, equality, and respect for every individual. We believe in giving everyone a fair go. Working hard, supporting our communities, and embracing the unique qualities that each person brings," he said.
"As new citizens, you are now part of this shared journey, one that celebrates our differences and strengthens our unity.
"I know that each of you will carry these values forward, contributing to the ongoing story of our nation.
"Your diverse backgrounds, cultures, and experiences enrich our community, and we welcome you wholeheartedly."
Last Friday Whitsunday Chamber and Porters Mitre 10 Whitsunday hosted a Pop Ip event and it was a morning was full of energy, conversation, and community spirit, with more than 30 local business operators and community members dropping by.
Guests enjoyed the StarFM live broadcast, plenty of giveaways, a tasty BBQ brekkie courtesy of Keith, and perfectly brewed coffee from McMoon Coffee Caravan. It was a fantastic opportunity to catch up with familiar faces, make new connections, and share ideas about business opportunities and challenges in the Whitsundays.
Above all, Chamber said it was a great opportunity for people to network without the formalities.
“What we aimed to do, was to have a bit of a focal point around an informal drop in for business owners, tradies and the general public to learn more about chamber, network, and get rid of all of that fussy formality that sometimes people don't enjoy about business education,” said Chamber.
“A lot of people were asking about our advocacy efforts, particularly into all levels of government, Council and state government in particular.
“Some of the things that were of interest to people were, how do I scale up my business, because we had representatives there from trade investment Queensland.
“People were thinking about, where are the export opportunities, and who's actually doing a lot of international trade? Even the little micro businesses that are based in the Whitsundays, what are they actually doing?
“Others were a little bit curious about what's going on with the cruise ship market, as well as some new faces looking at features and benefits becoming a chamber member.”
These casual, open-door networking mornings are about more than just coffee and conversation — they’re about building stronger relationships across the local business community.
The Chamber looks forward to bringing Pop Up Chamber events back in 2026, with more chances to connect, collaborate, and celebrate the great businesses that make the Whitsunday region thrive.
Cait Fleming, Fiona Good, Jo Ryan, and Trish Jandt. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
The Bowen Fishing Classic is back for another year, offering a modern twist on a beloved local tradition. With over 30 years of history, this year’s event is reimagined to bring a fresh and exciting experience for both locals and visitors.
Organiser Lukas Adam, who moved to Bowen four years ago, has worked hard to modernise this year's event. “All the traditional elements you know and love, but with a fresh, reimagined twist to give the fishing classic a modern edge,” says Lukas. He’s passionate about using his digital marketing skills to reinvigorate the event for the community. Lukas adds, “I made the Fishing Classic into an official not-for-profit organisation and have secured long-term council backing as an economic tourism-driving event, as opposed to just a community event it was in the past.”
A major update this year is the increased focus on digital engagement. With a brand-new website, online ticket sales, and live event feeds, it’s easier than ever for attendees to participate and stay updated.
Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy, said it was fantastic that the Fishing Classic was being held again this year. “This event is great for locals and visitors, and we are pleased to see it is being held again in 2025. If this event grows in future years, it is sure to provide an economic boost for the region and attract more visitors to Bowen,” she said.
The competition promises to be fierce, with a range of exciting prizes up for grabs. Lukas shares, “Some of the biggest prizes include the $30,000 boat… and all the champion angler prizes.”
While Lukas has introduced a modern touch to the event, he remains committed to preserving the simplicity and charm that have made it a local favourite for decades. By blending tradition, innovation, and strong community spirit, the Bowen Fishing Classic continues to be an unmissable highlight of the year.
For more details, visit the Bowen Fishing Classic website: https://bfc.fish/.
Just after 7am on Monday 15th September, the BMA CQ Rescue Helicopter was called to a multi-vehicle crash near Bowen, outside a service station between Proserpine and Bowen.
With several people injured, the rescue helicopter landed on the Bruce Highway so the medical team could provide urgent treatment. Emergency services worked together at the scene to deliver the best possible care.
Two patients required specialist treatment in Townsville. The aircraft was quickly reconfigured to transport both, arriving at Townsville Hospital about 10.30am where specialists were waiting.
BMA CQ Rescue General Manager Lisa Martin said moments like this highlight the crew’s innovation: “When it became apparent that two patients needed critical care urgently, while the Doctor and Paramedic treated the patients, the crew got to work and reconfigured the helicopter to ensure both patients would get to hospital as quickly as possible. To ensure there was enough room for the patients needed, one crew member opted to stay behind.”
Rescue Crew Officer Ben Grenier, who remained at the scene, said, “I didn’t think twice. They needed care. Of course, I opted out. I wish them all a speedy recovery.”
The Collinsville community is in mourning following a tragic car crash near Springlands on Wednesday, 10th September, which claimed the lives of a beloved husband and wife.
Emergency services responded to a two-vehicle collision on Peter Delemothe Road, located between Strathalbyn and Strathmore Roads, around 12.30pm. Investigations suggest that a silver Mazda 2, travelling west, collided head-on with a white Toyota Hilux coming in the opposite direction.
Sadly, 63-year-old Glenville Drinkwater and his wife, 61-year-old Lynette Drinkwater, both from Collinsville, were pronounced dead at the scene. The male driver of the Mazda and his passenger, who were known and loved in the small North Queensland town, have left families, friends, and the entire community devastated by their sudden loss.
The driver of the Toyota Hilux was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Authorities are appealing for anyone with dashcam footage or additional information regarding the crash to come forward.
The Queensland Police Service reminds motorists that road safety is everyone’s responsibility. Serious crashes can often be avoided by steering clear of the “Fatal Five” risky driving behaviours: speeding, drink or drug driving, failure to wear seatbelts, fatigue, and distraction. For more information on road safety, visit qld.gov.au/police/fatal-five-staying-safe-roads.
The Collinsville couple sadly lost their life in the crash
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Earlier this year, many parts of North and Far North Queensland were hit hard by flooding. While the Whitsundays was fortunate not to experience widespread damage, it was still a challenging time for our region.
Families here watched the impacts unfold across the north, some of our residents were directly affected, and the uncertainty around weather events weighed heavily on our community.
That is why I welcome the Queensland Government’s recent announcement of the Stronger Homes Grant. This new program, jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments through the Commonwealth State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, is about giving homeowners practical support to prepare for the future.
The Stronger Homes Grant offers up to $10,000 for eligible homeowners to make their properties more flood resilient. It is not just about repairing what was damaged, it is about making smart improvements so that when the next flood comes, the impact is reduced. Examples include raising electrical switchboards, moving hot water systems or air conditioning units above flood levels, separating electrical circuits between floors, or replacing wall linings and floor coverings with materials that are easier to clean and dry after water inundation.
This program is open to both insured and uninsured homeowners, and funds are paid directly to licensed contractors or insurers once the works are complete. That means homeowners can focus on the improvements without worrying about how to manage the payments.
Applications are open now and will close on 31 December 2025, unless funds are fully allocated before that date. To apply, residents need to show proof of ownership, evidence that their home was inundated in the January and February floods, and a quote from a licensed contractor for the proposed works. Full details, including guidance for homeowners and contractors, are available at www.qld.gov.au/strongerhomesgrant.
As Mayor, I know how important it is for our community to be ready for whatever nature throws at us. Every step we take to strengthen our homes makes the whole Whitsunday region more resilient. I encourage anyone who is eligible to consider applying for this grant, and to share the information with friends, family and neighbours so no one misses out.
This is not just about repairing damage, it is about reducing the impact of the next event, so it is not as hard on our families or our community. By building resilience now, we give ourselves the best chance to recover more quickly and keep the Whitsundays moving forward together.
This week marks the final chapter for the community newspaper Whitsunday News, which has been part of the region since its inception in 2020. After shifting to an online-only format in 2024, the publication has now announced it will officially close its doors.
Editor and founder Deborah Friend has been the driving force behind Whitsunday News since day one. In a touching gesture, Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm recently surprised Ms Friend with a gift basket and a certificate of appreciation.
“I was very touched and honoured to be recognised by our local MP Amanda Camm for my contribution to local media and the Whitsunday community during the five years of the Whitsunday News’ existence,” said Ms Friend.
Praised for her passionate advocacy for the Whitsundays, Ms Camm said that Whitsunday News captured the heart of our community.
"As she steps back from her formal role in local media, I offer my heartfelt thanks to Deborah Friend for her outstanding contribution to journalism in our region," said Ms Camm.
"Whether it was covering local council developments, community fundraisers or the stories of everyday people doing extraordinary things, Deborah brought both professionalism and empathy to every piece she produced. She has shown what it means to be a true community journalist; someone who listens, who cares, and who tells our stories with truth and heart.
"With sincere appreciation on behalf of our community, I thank you, Deborah, for your dedication, your voice, and your legacy. The Whitsundays are better for your work, and you will always be part of the story."
Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm acknowledged Deb Friend's dedication to the community following the closure of Whitsunday News Newspaper after five years. Photo supplied
Since rolling into town in June, Skyline Attractions’ Ferris Wheel has quickly become part of the Airlie Beach experience. Standing 35 metres tall, it’s given locals and visitors the chance to take in sweeping 360° views of The Whitsundays, from the sparkling Coral Sea to the bustle of the foreshore and some stunning sunsets.
More than 40,000 people have already hopped on board, and the Wheel has even played host to a bit of romance, with 17 proposals happening high above the sea (that we know of!). With fully wheelchair-accessible gondolas, it’s been an experience everyone could enjoy.
The buzz it’s brought to the town has been fantastic, adding another drawcard to the foreshore and giving families, couples and friends a new way to enjoy Airlie. It’s been a great boost for local businesses too, with plenty of visitors making a day of it.
But all good things must come to an end - the Ferris Wheel wraps up in October. So if you haven’t yet had a spin, now’s the time. Whether it’s your first ride or you’re heading back for another look at that view, don’t miss your chance to see Airlie from the top.
Contributed with thanks to Zoe Lunardelli, Partnerships Coordinator, Tourism Whitsundays
Check out the ferris wheel before it leaves. Photo credit: Mackay and Whitsunday Life
The school holidays are about to get seriously fun at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre! From the laugh-out-loud kid’s circus adventure ‘The Farmy Farm’ to big-screen new release cinema including The Smurfs, Bad Guys 2, Kangaroo and Gabby’s Dollhouse, there’s something for every mini movie buff or theatre lover!
Don’t miss out, check out the What’s On page on the Proserpine Entertainment Centre website and grab your tickets today!
It has been a term like no other for St Catherine’s Catholic College with students, staff, families, and alumni coming together to mark a century of Catholic education in the region.
The College’s Centenary celebrations were the highlight of the term, drawing hundreds of people back to the school grounds to reminisce, reconnect, and celebrate the community that has flourished over the past 100 years. From moving liturgies to joyful reunions, the celebrations captured the proud history of the College while looking confidently toward the future.
Principal Katherine Nelson said the milestone created memories that would last a lifetime.
“Reaching 100 years is a remarkable achievement for our College and our community,” she said.
“It was inspiring to see so many generations come together to share stories, honour our traditions, and celebrate all that makes St Catherine’s so special. We are incredibly proud of where we’ve come from and very excited for what lies ahead. ”
Alongside the centenary, students and staff also enjoyed a vibrant and busy term filled with opportunities for learning, leadership, and fun.
● Blak Excellence
● Buddies Program
● Prep Adventures
● R U OK? Day
● Farmers Market
Ms Nelson also said the variety of events reflected the holistic education on offer at St Catherine’s Catholic College.
“From creating culture and achievement to supporting wellbeing and encouraging enterprise and creativity – this term has been a shining example of what it means to be part of St Catherine’s,” she said.
“We are proud of our students’ achievements, both big and small, and grateful to our staff, families, and community who make these experiences possible.”
As the College looks forward to the remainder of the year, the memories of this milestone term will remain a special part of its story for years to come.
St Catherine's Catholic College celebrated Blak Excellence this term. Photo supplied
A vibrant showcase of dance, music and storytelling lit up the stage at Bowen State High School’s inaugural Multicultural Evening, where students, teachers and community members came together to celebrate cultural heritage and unity.
Year 10 student Seinimilli Mau was credited as the driving force behind the evening, with her passion and leadership shining through every detail of the program.
Guest compere Joe Mau, a Year 12 student from Burdekin Christian College, kept the evening flowing with a mix of humour, soulful singing and a strong reminder of the importance of recognising and preserving culture.
Local primary school students and seasonal workers attended and students proudly showcased their cultural heritage through captivating dance, movement and song performances.
The evening's theme took the audience on a symbolic sea voyage, it opened with a heartfelt Acknowledgement of Country, led by staff member Greg Power alongside students, before Mary Ellen and Kenzie delivered a moving performance honouring the Torres Strait Islands.
From there, the journey continued to the Cook Islands, Fiji, Vanuatu, Samoa and Tonga, as students presented a series of captivating dances that highlighted the beauty and traditions of their homelands. Teachers were also invited on stage, dancing alongside their students in a moment that captured the event’s spirit of togetherness.
The night was hailed as a resounding success, not only for the talent on display but also for the powerful message of pride, identity and unity. Principal Robert Harris expressed his gratitude to all students, families and community members who helped make the celebration possible.
“Their collective efforts have created a lasting impact, inspiring me to continue celebrating our diversity and unity," he added.
“Students and staff are also saying how great the event was, they have been saying it was great to be able to build a connection.
“The two themes of embracing opportunities and strengthening relationships, they are the two hashtags I keep going on about, they build school culture.”
With the success of the inaugural event, excitement is already building for 2026, when the community will again gather to honour and celebrate the school’s rich cultural diversity.
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