Coexistence Queensland is inviting residents, landholders and businesses across the Whitsunday region to a free community energy and resources forum held at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on 20th March.

The event offers community members the chance to ask questions, access clear information and engage directly with industry and government about current and future development.

The Queensland Community Energy Forum will bring together community members, energy and resource developers, agriculture representatives and government for a day of presentations, question-and-answer sessions and information booths.

Warwick Squire, CEO, Coexistence Queensland, said the forum is designed to equip landholders and communities with the information they need to confidently engage with energy developers.

“When it comes to development, locals want clear information and straight answers,” Mr Squire said.

“This forum will bring everyone into the same room – landholders, industry, government and community. By listening to each other, we can reduce uncertainty, build trust and make meaningful decisions together.”

Janette Hewson, Chief Executive Officer, Queensland Resources Council, said the resources sector had a long-standing connection to the Whitsundays region.

“Whitsundays families and businesses have supported our industry for generations,” Ms Hewson said.

“Communities always want to be informed and know what developments mean for their land, their livelihoods and their future. Forums like this are important in shaping how development happens, in unlocking new resource opportunities and seeing more investment going back into regional communities."

The expo will take place between 8am – 3pm, with light refreshments and lunch provided.

For more information, visit www.qldenergyforum.org.au/proserpine-20-march-2026
or call 1300 548 021

1 - Warwick Squire, CEO, Coexistence Queensland, Stephanie McKechnie, Energy Engagement and Education Advisor, Queensland Farmers’ Federation, Cr Neville Ferrier, Mayor, Banana Shire Council, Katie-Anne Mulder, CEO, Queensland Renewable Energy Council, and Cr Shane McCarthy, General President, AgForce Queensland. Photo supplied

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Piotr Ferenc, managing director and registered migration agent at Airlie Beach’s Pacific Center, has spent over 20 years transitioning talented workers and long-distance loved ones to our shores.

From his office on Shute Harbour Road, Piotr helps onshore clients transition from temporary stays to permanent residency, and assists employers in finding effective and cost-efficient pathways to bring the talent they need into Australia

With two decades of experience, Piotr knows immigration law and visa process inside out; but the thing that sets his business apart is the team’s level of care.

According to Piotr, visa applications can be overwhelming at the best of times and feel like total minefields at the worst, with complex and often confusing instructions and requirements to navigate.

That’s why a migration agent’s support is so valuable, with many clients coming to Piotr too late — after their own missteps have led to rejected applications and significant financial losses.

“There is a great deal of technical detail behind the scenes that most people don’t see, along with many potential pitfalls. “The longer an agent has been in the business, the more of those traps they can foresee. That’s why experienced agents are so in demand — and why we are so busy.”

One of the most rewarding parts of the job, he says, is seeing people he helped settle in Australia years ago now thriving within their communities.

With a growing client network, Pacific Centre is expecting a strong year ahead, and working across all visa categories, the team can assist almost anyone planning to make Australia home.

1 – Piotr Ferenc, expert on all things migration. Photo supplied

Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre are on the lookout for volunteers to help out in their popular Op Shop!

If you enjoy working with people and want to support your local community, they’d love to hear from you. No experience needed, just a great attitude! A Working With Children Blue Card will be required, however, the centre can assist you setting one up for free.

So, if you want to be part of something great, meet new people, and make a difference, get in touch by calling 49467850, emailing nc@whitnc.org.au, or popping in to see the team.

1 – Join an amazing team of volunteers. Photo: Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre

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On Monday 9th February Bowen State High School’s Senior Leaders were inducted into their leadership roles in front of students, staff, family and community members. The Year 11 and 12 student leaders were elected by their peers and teachers at the end of 2025 and take on these positions with pride.

During his Principal Address, Mr Harris spoke about how “Leadership isn't a position; it’s a choice. It’s the choice to be kind when it’s easier to be indifferent. It’s the choice to look out for the people around you, even when no one is watching and there’s no reward to be given at the end of the term."

He shared this challenge for the school community, "So, my challenge to you today is this: Don't wait for a badge to start leading. Don't wait for permission to be kind.”

“The greatest leaders this school will ever see are the ones sitting in those chairs in front and beside me right now—the ones who decide, starting today, that they will leave this place a little better, a little warmer, and a little kinder than they found it. You don't need a title to be a hero in someone else's day.”

Student leaders each invited a loved one to issue them their badge. Mayor Ry Collins commented, “It was a really nice touch to see student leaders presented with their badges by family and friends in attendance- a proud moment for everyone involved.”

The student leaders hit the ground running by attending a GRIP leadership conference later in the week and selling roses and chocolates for Valentines Day. We wish them all the best for their leadership journey.

1 – Proud students leaders, ready to make a difference.

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St Catherine’s Catholic College has commenced this school year with purpose, community and faith, marked by a meaningful Opening Liturgy and Leader Commissioning Ceremony held earlier this month.

Students, staff and families gathered to bless the new school year and commission student leaders, formally acknowledging the responsibilities entrusted to them, and inviting reflection on the college’s mission.  

Principal Katherine Nelson said the event set a positive and unified tone for the year ahead.

“The ceremony was a beautiful way to begin the school year,” Ms Nelson said.

“It allowed us to come together in faith, to acknowledge the important role of our student leaders, and remind ourselves that leadership at St Catherine’s leadership is grounded in service, compassion and example.”

This week, the community also entered the season of Lent - a 40-day period of prayer, fasting and almsgiving, inviting Catholics to reflect, grow in faith and prepare for Easter. It is a time for strengthening our relationship with God and supporting those in need.

The College marked Shrove Tuesday (Pancake Day) by raising funds for Caritas Australia through Project Compassion. Students enjoyed pancakes while contributing to initiatives that support vulnerable communities locally and globally.

On Wednesday, an Ash Wednesday liturgy was held, with participants receiving ashes as a symbol of reflection, renewal and commitment to the Lenten journey.

“During Lent, we are reminded of the importance of compassion, generosity and service to others,” Ms Nelson said.

“Our students have embraced these opportunities, demonstrating that faith is not only something we celebrate, but something we live out each day.”

1- Proud student leaders ready to make change. Photo supplied.

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Student Isaiah Howell reflects on his academic journey.

Bowen State High School gives so many opportunities to students to excel in many different fields.

For me, participating in Tournament of Minds since 2023 has been a highlight. Bowen State teams progressed to the state finals in 2024 and 2025, and last year we represented Queensland at the International finals. Our STEM Racing team (formally F1 in Schools) will soon progress to the National finals, competing in coming weeks.  

The school has also made me aware of Global engagement opportunities. Last year I applied for the QLD Premiers ANZAC Prize, and I’m honoured to be chosen as one of 8 QLD students as a recipient of the Prize. This has given me the opportunity to deepen my knowledge of the profound significance of the ANZAC Legacy. Participating in the Young Historians Workshop earlier this year has taught me a variety of research skills in preparation for our tour of the Western Front in April. This opportunity could not have been done without the support of the school.

The Premier's Anzac Prize is a unique, life-changing opportunity for all Queensland high school students to engage with the Anzac tradition first-hand and explore how the Anzac Legacy relates to modern Australian life. In preparation for the overseas trip, recipients are supported in the development of research skills and preparation of commemorations of their chosen service people. All their research comes to life over the 2-week tour to Europe.

As part of the prize, I’m raising money for Mates4Mates, an organisation that partners with the RSL to support veterans and Australian Defence Force Personnel’s mental and Physical health. I have set a goal of $2000. Part of the fundraising includes planning events that will be advertised in the near future. Later this term I will also visit local primary schools to share with them the importance of the ANZAC Legacy.  

These experiences have taught me that when an opportunity presents itself, it should be embraced. Bowen State High School has shown me a wide range of opportunities through classes, such as Tournament of Minds and STEM Racing, which are units we undertake as a part of the Academy Program. School notices also promote additional opportunities, including the Premier's ANZAC Prize. Without the ongoing support of teachers and administrators, I would not be where I am today.

Photos supplied

Queensland’s special schools are set to receive an increase in workplace health and safety support, with the state government announcing 30 full time Health and Safety Coordinators to be placed across the state’s 46 special schools. The move is part of a broader investment in school safety and comes as enrolments in special schools have risen by more than 38 percent since 2019.

According to the government, the additional coordinators are intended to increase support for teachers and school leaders, reduce administrative workloads and strengthen responses to occupational health and safety concerns. The positions will work directly with principals and leadership teams to improve safety processes, manage risk assessments and oversee reporting requirements. The initiative follows a previous commitment to fund an additional 140 Workplace Health and Safety Officers for state schools over four years.

Education remains one of the largest areas of state expenditure, with this year’s $21.9 billion Education Budget also funding a $45 million Behaviour Boost program, a $33 million anti bullying plan and six new special schools to address growing demand. The new health and safety roles in special schools are being funded through the Better and Fairer Schools Agreement, which the government says fully funds state schools for the first time in Queensland’s history.

Minister for Education John Paul Langbroek said recruitment is already underway.

“Every teacher, staff member and student deserves to feel safe in our schools and we’re boosting support with more boots on the ground,” he said.

“We are committed to improving workplace conditions and cutting red tape for teachers and there will be more to come in both of these areas this year.”

The announcement has also drawn attention to broader concerns about teacher workload and workplace safety. In recent years, teacher unions and education stakeholders have highlighted rising administrative demands and increasing complexity in classrooms, particularly in special education settings. Data released by the government notes that teacher WorkCover claims reached more than $80 million in the 2023 to 2024 financial year, underscoring the pressures faced by school staff.

At the school level, leaders say additional support could make a meaningful difference. Aspley Special School Principal Kath McDonald welcomed the initiative.

“We will be able to implement a more proactive and consistent approach to managing risks which are complex and ongoing in a special school setting,” she said.

As enrolments continue to grow and expectations on schools evolve, ensuring safe and supportive learning environments remains a shared priority across the political spectrum. The effectiveness of these new roles will likely be closely watched by educators, families and policymakers alike as Queensland works to meet the needs of its most vulnerable students.

Photo source: Shutterstock

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Families across the Whitsundays now have another reason to look forward to the weekend, with Playtime sessions officially launching on Saturday mornings at PCYC Whitsundays.

Designed especially for children aged 0–4 years, the new Saturday session will run every week from 8:30am to 9:15am, offering young families a welcoming and active way to start their day.

The initiative expands PCYC Whitsundays’ growing weekly timetable and provides even more opportunities for toddlers to engage in active, social play within a safe and supportive environment. The early morning timeslot is ideal for families looking to get little ones out of the house before nap time, while also helping children burn energy, build confidence and develop social skills.

Playtime sessions encourage children to climb, explore, move and interact, all while becoming familiar with the club environment. The program also offers parents and carers a chance to connect with other local families and strengthen community ties.

Casual visits are available for $12 per session, while a direct debit option of $11.95 per week allows families to attend as many Playtime sessions throughout the week as they wish. With the addition of the Saturday program, this option provides even greater value for regular attendees.

PCYC Whitsundays looks forward to welcoming families to the club each Saturday morning as it continues to provide inclusive and accessible activities that support young children and the wider community.

Photo source: Facebook

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Batman is a striking Staffy x Great Dane with distinctive black-and-white markings and a big, lovable personality to match. This happy, people-focused boy genuinely enjoys human company and is always keen to learn, making him a wonderful companion for the right home.

Responsive and intelligent, Batman is eager to please and thrives when given guidance and engagement. He enjoys regular exercise and would do best in a household that can provide structure, routine, and ongoing training to help him reach his full potential. With the right investment, Batman is sure to grow into a loyal and well-rounded companion.

About Batman

• Male
• Adult (exact age unknown)
• Staffy x Great Dane
• Friendly, happy, and people-oriented
• Intelligent and quick to learn
• Enjoys exercise and mental stimulation
• Would benefit from continued training

Ideal Home

Batman would thrive in:

• An active household
• A home committed to ongoing training
• A property with secure fencing
• A family willing to include him in daily life and activities

Health and Veterinary Care

Details regarding Batman’s vet care are available upon enquiry.

Adoption Details

Adoption Fee: $400

Adoption fees go directly back into veterinary care and rescuing more animals. Bowen & Collinsville Pet Rescue is a non-profit, no-kill rescue dedicated to giving animals like Batman a second chance at life.

Batman is ready for a home that will invest in him and enjoy watching him flourish. To learn more or arrange a meet-and-greet, please get in touch. Sharing his story could help him find the loving forever home he deserves.

Photo supplied

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Across the Whitsunday Regional Libraries in Bowen, Proserpine, Cannonvale and Collinsville, something special is taking shape - one memory, one stitch at a time.

The Textile Memory Book Project is giving seniors the chance to connect, reflect and create together. We spoke with Sue, Social Seniors Isolation Project Officer, about the initiative.  

Q: What is the Textile Memory Book Project?

Sue: It’s a series of free creative workshops funded by the State Government’s Department of Families, Seniors, Disability Services and Child Safety, and delivered through our regional libraries. With guidance from a local artist, participants turn a personal memory or story into a textile artwork.

At the end of the program, the artworks will be showcased at a free community expo at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre.

Q: When are the workshops happening?

Sue: Bowen has already hosted its session, with participants embracing the chance to share stories and learn new skills.

Cannonvale begins at the end of February, followed by Proserpine and Collinsville in March and April.

Q: What happens in a workshop?

Sue: Participants learn techniques such as wet felting, fabric layering and hand stitching.

They then reflect on a meaningful memory, perhaps a special place, family tradition or milestone, and bring it to life through fabric and thread.

No artistic experience is required. The focus is on storytelling and connection, not perfection.

Q: Why focus on seniors?

Sue: The workshops are part of the Social Seniors Isolation Project, which aims to reduce isolation by encouraging older residents to engage in new activities and build connections.

For many seniors, opportunities to meet new people can become limited. These sessions provide a relaxed, welcoming space where conversation flows naturally and friendships begin.

Whilst the workshops are designed with seniors in mind, the final community expo will be open for the broader community to attend.   

Q: What has the response been like?

Sue: The Bowen workshop showed just how powerful creativity can be. Alongside beautiful textile pieces came laughter, stories and new connections.

For information about upcoming sessions, contact your local library branch or visit www.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au

Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Regional Libraries.

1- Pam Finlay’s beautiful textile book inspired by Monet’s garden

2 – Seniors are invited to create textile art under a local artist’s guidance. Photos supplied.

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At Whitsunday Green Club, Jon Miller brings both impressive playing credentials and a strong passion for community golf to his role as Golf Manager. A long-time local, Jon is responsible for all things golf at the club, combining high-level competitive experience with a welcoming approach that reflects the spirit of the region.

Jon’s journey in the game began at just 10 years old. By 13, he had reached a single-figure handicap, a sign of the talent and dedication that would shape his golfing career. Today, he plays off a scratch handicap and has competed at the highest levels of amateur golf, representing himself in numerous state and national championships. His pursuit of excellence saw him compete at the PGA Tour of Australasia Qualifying School, further sharpening his competitive edge. Along the way, he has claimed Club Champion titles at two separate clubs, reinforcing his standing as a proven performer.

While his playing résumé is impressive, Jon’s focus at Whitsunday Green is firmly on growing the game and creating an inclusive social culture. He is committed to making the course a fun, social and “all welcome” destination for visitors and members alike. Known for his friendly and approachable manner, Jon encourages participation from golfers of all ages and skill levels, from seasoned players to juniors, beginners and first-timers. He is always willing to offer practical advice and handy tips, particularly around the greens, helping players build confidence and enjoyment in their game.

Innovation has also become a hallmark of his management style. Jon has introduced new and engaging competition formats designed to attract a broad range of participants and keep members excited about their involvement. He recognises the significant global growth in golf participation since 2020 and sees particular opportunity in shorter formats of the game. These condensed versions appeal to modern lifestyles, offering quicker rounds that suit young players, newcomers and those short on time while maintaining the social and competitive elements that make golf so compelling.

Collaboration is central to Jon’s vision for the club. Working closely with the lead Superintendent and the Clubhouse Café Manager, he is focused on delivering a seamless and enjoyable experience. The goal is to create an environment where quality course presentation, friendly service and strong community engagement come together to form an ongoing destination for locals and visitors.

With construction of the future nine holes currently underway, there is a growing sense of anticipation across the club. Jon and the wider team are enthusiastic about the expansion and the opportunities it will bring to enhance play, attract new members and further establish Whitsunday Green as a vibrant hub for golf in the region.

Captions

Photos supplied

On This Day 20th February 1986

High School Captains For 1986.

School captains Lisa Linneweber and Mervyn Dries were presented with their badges by state member Geoff Muntz along with senior Mill Bursary Winner Michael Braby and juniors Rosanne Doolan, Amanda Raleigh and Andrew Vonhoff.

Highway Bypass $1 Million.

The highway will be reconstructed from Fuljames Street through to the tramway North of Taylor Street with work on side roads and intersections.

Cannonvale – Pierless.

Council labour gangs have removed the old stone jetty as part of renovations to the old swimming enclosure at Cannonvale Beach.

Cannonvale School Enrolments.

246 children enrolled at the opening of 1986 school year, 13 more than last year despite 20 children going to the new school at Hamilton Island. New buildings have been approved for a tuckshop, amenities block, and admin area.

High School Is Buzzing.

Formation of a school choir, tutorials for maths, and a gym club is being planned. The Student Council is organising the first school dance of the year under C Block.

Collinsville Footballer Appeal.

A mother has appealed a sentence for her son who received serious injuries in the 1984 Under 18 Semi Final against Proserpine when a kick in the head led to a black out of senses.

$8 Million Planning Proposal For Airlie Beach Rejected.

Developer Chris Dorrough’s plans to build a town square, a shopping complex and a beach were rejected on several counts by Council.

Bloods Advance.

Airlie Bloods moved into the Mackay ‘A’ Grade Division and will also form a ‘B’ grade team. Several new players have been signed up by coach Doug Murray and training will commence at Cannonvale School Grounds in March.

Proserpine Historical Society adopts a constitution.

Jan Maltby and Don Dinnie were carrying out research and Secretary Alan Dufty was seeking support from local clubs.

Happy Bay Changes Over 50 Years.

Nancy Allan formerly Thorogood of Kelsey Creek described life on Long Island in the late 1930s. It was aimed at tourism rather than grazing like on other islands. Transport to the island was by boat called “Ventura” which departed from the old stone jetty at Cannonvale. Shute Harbour had no facilities in those days.

Respite Care in Mackay for Proserpine.

Care and counselling for handicapped people was described by the state coordinator to Proserpine Blue Nurse representative Lillian Orr.

Cricket Results

Magpies 187 [ A.Pini 71n.o.] beat Norths 81 [S.Rock 3/20]

Colts 158 [ G.Mitten 43, W.Woods 3/65] beat Centrals 129[ R. Donnelly 3/22

Valleys 160 [ L.Churchward 60, R.Magee 4/44] beat Souths 57 [W. Borellini 5/20]

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This week’s winner is Corrine Hendrikse with this stunning peacock photo. The theme was “Blue”.

Next week’s theme is ‘Glass’, and members are welcome to join the Whitsundays Amateur Photographer’s Facebook group.

These photographs are contributed by the Whitsundays Amateur Photographers Group.

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Proserpine’s Main Street today bears little resemblance to what it looked like in the early to mid 1900s. Most of the original buildings have long gone, however, the facades of several of these early establishments can still be seen as one drives down the main street. The Hewitt Building is one of these reminders of the past.

Throughout its existence, it was the location of a variety of businesses, the first being the premises of Alfred Harvey Hewitt who operated a saddlery/harness business.  It was a two-storey building and he moved into it in December 1903. In about 1910, the Hewitts left the area for Sarina.

J A Behrens, who was also a photographer, ran refreshment rooms called The New York Café from this building. In August 1913, he sold to Mrs. William (Mary Ann) Compton (nee Jenkins) who lived with her family in the rooms above the shop. There were steps at the back and then they had to walk across the roof to access the rooms.

In 1914, after Alfred Hewitt died, aged only 37 years, his widow, Margaret and young family returned to Proserpine where she operated a tearoom from the shop. In 1918, she married Mr John James O’Hara. They left the area for a short time, returning in 1921 and bought a farm. For a short time in the 1920s, these rooms were taken over by single ladies, the Clifford sisters.

May 1925 saw a change of business when Mr J M Harkness, Chemist, took over the shop which had been thoroughly renovated. He had arrived in the area in 1924 originally operating his business in Mrs Beame’s premises next to Kelly’s Hotel (now the Grand Central).  Following the death of Mr Harkness, Philip Sydney Reid acquired the pharmacy in 1928.  

Mrs. O’Hara, wife of the late Mr. Hewitt, still owned the building and decided to rebuild, this time to a single-storey building. Mr. Bob Shaw was the builder. The “Proserpine Guardian” (June 17, 1939) reported, “With its demolishment will go an old landmark of the town” … “probably one of the oldest buildings”.  Timber from the old Hewitt building was transported to Dent Island where it was used to build a home for Jack and Margaret O’Hara when they retired from mainland farming in 1941.

Christopher John Monkhouse assumed control of Reid’s Pharmacy in April, 1948 and the Hewitt Building remained the location for a pharmacy for almost another fifty years. When C J Monkhouse died suddenly in January 1960, the freehold was passed to Mrs Monkhouse. W N Gillies managed the business until Mr. Campbell Hill took the reins in 1961.  He sold to Mr. Graham Chandler on October 1, 1962. Graham carried on the business on his own until Paul and Gloria Gluske became partners c1993.  The Chandlers eventually moved away from Proserpine and the business was bought by Robert and Megan McKay in 1996. They closed this shop in 1997 taking the stock a few doors up to an existing chemist shop, Proserpine Pharmacy. So ended the Hewitt Building’s association with chemists.

Since then, a diverse range of businesses has operated from the Hewitt Building. A music shop called In the Hearing of Audioworx relocated from 140 Main Street. It was owned by Don Hope from 1997 to 1999. After this closed, Harvey World Travel shifted to the building until October 2009.  Around May 2010, Anita and Steve opened their business, Tropical Beach Hut. They were followed by an acupuncturist. From about 2016, Peak Body Mechanics, a complementary health and wellness clinic, began operating until eventually closing and putting the business up for sale in 2022.

In 2024, a new owner/tenant started a home brew shop, cleverly named Home Brewitt – a nod to the original owners of the building.

Stay tuned for more stories about the history of some of Proserpine’s early establishments.  

Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum

1. Hewitt building today
2. Hewitt building in 1999

Late in the night of Tuesday 10^th February, BMA Central Queensland Helicopter Rescue was tasked to Haslewood Island to assist a man suffering from a marine envenomation. The patient was on board a marine vessel and experiencing significant pain, respiratory distress and intermittent loss of consciousness, prompting urgent medical intervention.

In a challenging operation, BMA CQ Rescue’s medical team, comprising an onboard Paramedic and Doctor, were winched to a nearby beach before making their way to the patient by vessel. The crew stabilised the man before transferring him to land, where he was carefully winched into the helicopter and transported to Mackay for further medical treatment.

This mission underscores the critical role BMA CQ Rescue plays in delivering life-saving care to those in remote and regional locations, often when time and distance are against them.

Complex rescues such as this rely on the precision and expertise of highly trained Rescue Crew Officers, the calm judgement and skill of dedicated Pilots and Air Crew Officers, and an advanced medical team prepared to deliver critical care wherever it is needed most.

Contributed with thanks to BMA CQ Rescue

The rescuers that keep watch over our shores

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