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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The Bowen Gumlu Growers Gala Dinner and Awards was held last weekend, bringing together the people who power the region’s vital agricultural industry. Among those in attendance were Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins and his wife Mel, who joined local growers, industry leaders and special guests for an evening of recognition and celebration.
The event highlighted the hard work, innovation, and commitment of the farming community, with several individuals and businesses acknowledged for their outstanding contributions. Winners included Stackelroth Farms, who received the Community Stewardship Award proudly sponsored by Whitsunday Regional Council; Rowan Munro, awarded Emerging Leader; Chris Monsour, recipient of the Agtech Impact Award; Vee Jay’s Kalfresh, named Farming Business of the Year; and Leanne Born, honoured with the prestigious Lifetime Recognition Award.
Guests also heard from guest speaker and MC Shane Webcke, along with Assistant Minister for Primary Industries and Water, Sean Dillon MP. BGGA CEO Jenn Honnery shared exciting updates on the association’s evolution and its refreshed brand identity as North Queensland Farmers.
The evening was a resounding success, with thanks extended to President Carl Walker, Jenn, Gill, sponsors, and all involved for shining a spotlight on agriculture’s central role in the community.
Mayor Ry Collins standing with some of the winners on the night
Celebrating the agricultural industry at the Bowen Gumlu Growers Gala Dinner and Awards
Last weekend the Queensland Police force deployed two horses to the streets of Airlie Beach.
Sergeant (Sgt) Ben Bassingthwaighte said the Brisbane based Queensland Mounted Police unit were in Airlie Beach and the surrounding areas in relation to high visibility controls, with the main focus of being visible in the community and being able to offer support.
“Horses are still relevant, even amongst modern technology, in that they're highly visible,” he said.
“They're there to provide safety for the community. They make the community feel safe.
“They are a very good connector for the community as well, the community really get a buzz out of seeing the horses. But they're also a great deterrent as far as crime.
“There are two sides to the same coin as far as their capability. So, they do attract people to come up and say hello. We're attracting a lot of community engagement, explaining why we're there, explaining community safety messaging and things like that.
“So they're great in that regard, but they're also a great deterrent.
“They can do the work of about four officers, particularly in crowded districts like here at Airlie Beach on Friday and Saturday night, which is supporting the police operations for the next two days; they provide a great presence in that regard.
Sgt Bassingthwaighte also said that patrol officers are commonly not seen, but having Police on main streets are highly beneficial.
“Most of our work is supporting frontline. 90% of our work is doing proactive control and supporting events to help police events and things of that nature, and that's why we're here today.”
Inspector Glenn Cameron said the main message Queensland Police wanted to convey is that the Police are part of the community.
“We want to get out there and engage with the community and make the community feel safe,” he said.
Availability of the Queensland Mounted Police unit varies but Inspector Glenn Cameron hopes it becomes a more regular deployment.
Sergeant Ben Bassingthwaighte and Lance
Sergeant Ben Bassingthwaighte and Lance, with Constable Debbie Bruntflett and Karma
Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
At the Whitsunday Regional Council Ordinary Meeting on Wednesday 27th August Mayor Ry Collins and Councillors voted 5–2 against the proposed Dinosaur Activity Centre development in Airlie Beach.
Mayor Ry Collins said the proposed mini golf activity was refused for a variety of reasons, including aesthetic, parking concerns, and a community petition that was heard by council.
“We all want to see new land-based activities come into Airlie Beach that give locals and visitors something fun to do, but this proposal just wasn’t the right fit,” he explained.
“The design didn’t sit well with the tropical look and feel of the Main Street, and with no car parking included it would have added to the pressure we’re already seeing in town.
“We also heard from the community loud and clear, with more than 20 submissions and a petition of over 500 signatures raising concerns about the visual impact and location.
"Councillors listened, and those issues were a big part of why the proposal wasn’t supported.
“Council is always open to new ideas that bring something fresh to Airlie, but they need to add to the character of the Main Street and make the most of the tropical setting we’ve got here.”
The entity which proposed the development kindly stated it would prefer not to comment.
The proposed Dinosaur Activity Centre on Main Street has been voted against. Photo sourced: Whitsunday Regional Council August Meeting
With premium coastal land across the Whitsundays becoming increasingly scarce, buyers are turning their attention to Airlie Summit, one of the region’s last elevated masterplanned communities offering sweeping ocean views and a rare chance to build in a blue-chip location.
The Panorama Release, nestled within Alder’s $60 million hillside community, has already attracted strong interest from buyers seeking elevated coastal land. The release comprises just 13 premium homesites, ranging from 616sqm to 898sqm and priced from $495,000, each offering sweeping vistas over Coral Sea Marina, Port of Airlie Marina, Pioneer Bay and across to the Whitsunday Islands — all from a vantage point 200 metres above sea level and just minutes from the Airlie Beach town centre.
Alder’s General Manager of Development, Frank Galvin, said the release had generated strong enquiry from both local and interstate markets, drawn by the scarcity of elevated land and the lifestyle on offer.
“Whether you’re planning your forever home, investing in a growing market, or seeking a holiday retreat with strong letting potential, the Panorama Release delivers,” Mr Galvin said.
“This is one of the last significant elevated land holdings in the region, and with availability tightening and demand growing, it’s an ideal time to secure a slice of paradise. Buyers also have the opportunity to benefit from strong long-term growth potential in one of the Whitsundays’ most prestigious coastal addresses.”
Adding to the opportunity, Alder has also introduced the Luxe Design Collection – an exclusive suite of home concepts created by specialist tropical designers. Each design has been tailored to the site’s hillside topography, maximising views and privacy while embracing natural light, sea breezes, and seamless indoor–outdoor living. The concepts also optimise airflow, level outdoor entertaining areas designed to optimise the unmatched views creating a bespoke lifestyle environment that is unique to Airlie Summit.
“The Luxe Design Collection provides buyers with a clear vision of what’s possible at Airlie Summit,” Mr Galvin said. “It allows people to imagine a home that not only fits the landscape but celebrates it, while offering the flexibility to work directly with designers to tailor the home to their personal needs and lifestyle.”
Alder has recently opened a new on-site Sales Suite, offering an immersive introduction to the community. The centre features an interactive digital masterplan and showcases the Luxe Design Collection – all set against what is already being hailed as “the best views of any sales office in Australia.”
For more information or to book an appointment, visit airliesummit.com.au.
Contributed with thanks to Alder
Alder's home range
Airlie Summit is one of the region’s last elevated communities
Photos supplied
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It has been a big few weeks for Bowen, with our community well and truly kicking goals on both the agriculture and tourism fronts. Two very different but equally important parts of our economy have been in the spotlight and both have done us proud.
Last weekend I attended the Bowen Gumlu Growers Gala Dinner and Awards, a fantastic celebration of the people who drive our agriculture industry.
It was a great opportunity to spend time with many of our Whitsunday region’s leading growers, and to hear from special guests including Assistant Minister for Primary Industries and Water, Sean Dillon MP, and the evening’s MC and guest speaker, Shane Webcke.
The awards were a highlight, recognising outstanding contributions across the industry. A special mention to Leanne Born, who received the Lifetime Recognition Award.
Congratulations to all the winners and finalists. Your dedication, innovation and resilience keep our industry strong and ensure Bowen and the Whitsundays remain leaders in agriculture.
It was also exciting to hear from BGGA CEO Jenn Honnery about the association’s evolution, including the launch of their refreshed brand, North Queensland Farmers which is an exciting step forward.
On the tourism front, I am equally proud to share that Bowen was named Visitor Information Centre of the Year in the Local Tourism Organisation category at the annual Queensland Information Centres Association conference recently.
This recognition is all about the incredible team of staff and volunteers who make the Bowen Visitor Information Centre such a welcoming place for visitors.
They are the friendly faces who greet travellers, share their knowledge, and showcase everything our region has to offer. Their passion and pride for Bowen and the Whitsundays shines through every day whether it be pointing visitors to our stunning beaches or sharing our rich history and community spirit.
With both agriculture and tourism recognised over the past week, it’s clear Bowen is kicking goals right across the board.
These achievements highlight the strength, diversity and resilience of our industries and the dedication of the people who make it all possible.
Most importantly, they show how Bowen is playing its part in making the Whitsunday region a great place to invest, live, work and visit.
As part of Bendigo Bank — Australia’s most trusted bank — Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine delivers the products, technology and security of a big bank while staying true to what matters most: personalised service and reinvesting profits back into our community.
Unlike many financial institutions, we are independently owned and operated with one clear mission — to support the Whitsundays. Over the past seven years, we’ve proudly contributed more than $249,000 into local schools, social programs, sporting clubs, arts and culture, conservation initiatives and community prizes.
Local Banking, Full Service
Led by Branch Manager Amanda Anderson, our branch offers the full suite of personal, business and wealth services. We’re open Monday to Friday, 9:30am–4:00pm (closed 1:00–2:00pm), with face-to-face service from experienced lenders and bankers who understand local needs.
Our services include:
Meet Our New Team Members
The Cannonvale–Proserpine branch recently welcomed two new faces, both proud locals with deep roots in the Whitsundays.
Jade, Customer Service Officer, shared:
“I grew up here in the Whitsundays and went through the Proserpine schools, so this region will always be home. After nine years living and working in New South Wales, I returned at the end of 2023 because I missed the sense of community, the familiar faces and the lifestyle you can only find here. Working with Bendigo Bank gives me the chance to be more involved in our community, and I’m proud knowing my work makes a difference right here at home.”
Kylie, Customer Relationship Officer, added:
“I feel blessed to be a fifth-generation local and to have grown up in such a beautiful part of the world. After living in England, Switzerland and most recently Moranbah, nothing compares to being back in the Whitsundays raising my three children. What I love about working with the Community Bank is knowing we genuinely support locals — it makes every day at work more rewarding.”
Backing Local Business
Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine is also passionate about supporting local enterprise. We’re proud to provide dedicated business banking expertise through Luke Sheppard, Senior Business Relationship Manager for North Central Queensland and Cairns, who regularly visits Cannonvale and Airlie Beach to meet with business owners face-to-face.
In 2025, we sponsored the Whitsunday Business Conference, hosting more than 70 companies, and we are honoured to be the Principal Partner of the 2025 Whitsunday Business Awards — celebrating the innovation, excellence and resilience of the region’s business community.
Your Town. Your Bank.
When you bank with us, you’re helping build a stronger Whitsundays.
Visit Amanda and the team at Whitsunday Plaza Cannonvale
Call (07) 4948 3599
Email cannonvale&proserpinemailbox@bendigoadelaide.com.au
Bendigo Bank – the better big bank.
L-R: Jade, Branch Manager Amanda, Natasha, and Kylie. Photo credit: Danile Heggie/Mackay and Whitsunday Life
When it comes to recycling, keeping it loose makes all the difference. Bagged recycling can’t be properly sorted at recycling facilities; in fact, it can damage the sorting equipment and can sometimes mean the whole load is sent straight to landfill.
By placing your hard plastics, steel, aluminium, glass, paper and cardboard loose in the yellow bin, you’re helping make sure these items get recycled into useful new products, like park benches and planter boxes.
Keeping your recycling loose is a simple step that has a big impact. For more information, search for Let’s Get it Sorted on Council’s website.
Tourism Whitsundays is proud to showcase local operators leading by example in environmental responsibility, proving that world-class experiences and conservation go hand in hand.
Over at Daydream Island Resort and Living Reef, the Living Reef team is literally growing the future. Their coral restoration program sees new life planted into Lovers Cove, where guests can snorkel among thriving reefs they've helped create.
Wings Sailing Charters has earned Advanced Eco certification, ensuring every sailing adventure has minimal environment impact, while Portland Roads has gone above and beyond with Advanced Ecotourism, Climate Action Business and Carbon Positive certifications, plus Recognition of Culture certification.
The sustainability story extends beyond the water. Zambrero is tackling food waste with Biopak packaging and their incredible Plate 4 Plate program – every meal sold triggers a donation to vulnerable communities through Foodbank Australia and Rise Against Hunger. They're also supporting Love Mercy's Cents for Seeds Project.
Waterview Airlie Beach contributes to Soap Aid, recycling discarded hotel soap into hygiene bars for communities in need, while Magnums Accommodation makes an impact through recycling stations, energy-efficient lighting and promoting eco-conscious tours.
These initiatives show that protecting our stunning region while creating unforgettable experiences isn’t just possible, it’s happening right here in our community.
Contributed with thanks to Rosanagh Gallivan, PR & Social Media Manager, Tourism Whitsundays
The Living Reef Team have been out and about surveying the Daydream Island reefs. Photo supplied
Tec-NQ House grade 11 boarding student Caleb has his sights set firmly on the automotive trade, splitting his week between the classroom, paid work, and hands-on experience at the Townsville Audi and Porsche dealership just down the road from Tec-NQ House boarding campus.
“I got to work on a timing belt,” said Caleb. “Each day I went to work experience, I walked because it was just up the road.”
Time in a prestigious workshop has given him confidence and clarity. “I get to help the workers in the workshop,” he commented. “Watching how they fix problems has shown me what the job is really like.”
Caleb isn’t waiting around for opportunity to knock. He’s stacking experience wherever he can, working part-time. “I also have a job at Dan’s Automotive,” said Caleb. “When I’m not doing work experience or school, I work there, where I am learning a lot.”
Head of Boarding, Luke Papworth, says Caleb’s initiative is exactly what Tec-NQ House is designed to encourage. “Caleb is taking every chance to learn; he’s balancing school, work experience, and a real job. That work ethic is what sets our students up for apprenticeships,” Luke said.
He also points to the advantage of transport and flexible staff support. “Transport is provided to the Tec-NQ Douglas co-educational campus each day, and students are driven to and from their workplaces as required,” said Luke. "That means students can get to placements, arrive on time, and focus on learning rather than logistics,” added Luke.
As a boarder, Caleb benefits from a supportive home base in Townsville. Tec-NQ House is a purpose-built boys-only boarding facility in Rosslea, providing accommodation for up to forty senior students from regional and remote Queensland so they can access Tec-NQ’s trade-focused senior school program.
The residence blends structure with a warm, homely feel. Students have 24/7 supervised care, air-conditioned double-occupancy rooms, modern communal lounges, computer access, a secure outdoor recreation area with BBQ facilities, and a basketball court.
Daily routines make success easier. An on-site professional chef prepares nutritious meals, staff run after-hours sport and social activities, and regular excursions build friendships.
“Boarding gives students independence with a safety net,” said Luke. “We set expectations around study, wellbeing and behaviour, and we’re right there to guide them. The result is young people who are ready for the workplace.”
That workplace-ready mindset is exactly what Caleb is building. He’s learning to communicate with tradespeople, follow procedures, and take pride in doing the small things right: clean tools, tidy bays, and careful checks before a car leaves the workshop. Each shift adds to his confidence.
Caleb’s next goal is clear: secure an automotive apprenticeship and keep learning on the tools. With Tec-NQ House providing structure, support and proximity to employers, and with the combination of work experience, paid work and school learning under his belt, he’s well on the way.
Keep up the great work, Caleb; your future is idling at the lights, and you’ve already got the green.
Automotive trade experience. Photo supplied.
Caleb at Tech NQ's common area. Photo supplied.
The Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre officially opened their Food Bank on Monday 1st September, a project that has been in the works for the last 12 months.
The Food Bank, funded by the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre’s op shop and sponsorship by North Queensland Bulk Ports and the Whitsunday Regional Council, is open Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 9am – 11am.
Executive Officer of the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre Rebecca Woods said she anticipates more products to come in that will extend their range of products.
“We are going to keep adding more, and a lot of it will be your staple items. Including, your basic pasta, rice, milk, breads, and breakfast cereals,” she said
“There will also be products for babies, children, as well as groceries such as fruit and veg, yoghurts, meat and fish.”
With the new Food Bank open, Rebecca hopes they will be able to serve and cater to more people in the community.
“We have had this idea since around August of last year, to grow our pantry that we have had for over a decade into a proper food bank and be able to cater to more people in our community,” she said.
“We wanted to be able to provide more low-cost groceries to our community as well, and also to preserve the dignity and being able to pay your own way.
“There's a lot of people who want to pay their own way but they just don't have the budget to stretch as far.”
At the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre foodbank everything is either around a third of retail price at supermarkets or free, thanks to donations.
Rebecca Woods and Marina McMullen at the new Food Bank. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
In a powerful demonstration of community compassion, the Bowen Community Centre, led by Sally Roberts with support from Lauren Miller and Alison Byde of Abbot Point Operations, served 443 hot dogs to locals during a recent outreach event aimed at supporting people experiencing homelessness.
The event, on Tuesday 26 August, was made possible through the generous donation of produce by Andrew, manager of Woolworths, along with the enthusiastic participation of local businesses and schools. Each hot dog purchased helped fund backpacks, swags, and tents for vulnerable members of the Bowen community.
“This issue brings light to what I see every day,” said Sally Roberts, the Community Connect worker.
“Currently, 33 registered homeless individuals rely on our services. The need is urgent and growing.”
So far this year, Sally has raised approximately $2,500 to support essential programs. However, the lack of crisis accommodation remains a pressing concern.
“It’s heartbreaking,” said Stephanie, Executive Officer of the Centre. “We simply don’t have the facilities to house our homeless community. Offering a tent or backpack may seem inadequate, but it’s the only help we can provide.”
Kelly from Hillery Group added, “It’s a great cause, and we’re thrilled to have been part of it and to support the community.”
The Bowen Community Centre thanked the following organisations for contributing to the success of the event: Lowcocks Builders, Bowen Childcare, Hillery Group, Bowen Industrial Hire, Queens Beach State School, Rocks on Rock, Abbot Point Operations, Flexi School, Idea Placements, Uniting Church, Kylie’s Dental, and St Mary’s School.
The Centre offers a range of support services, including:
• Soup kitchen
• Food bank
• Shower facilities
• Laundry access
If you know someone experiencing homelessness, please contact the Homeless Hotline on 1800 474 753. When in doubt, refer them to the Bowen Community Centre—where help and connection to the right services are always available.
Paddy may only be six months old, but this Bull Arab-x pup already has a heart full of love to give. Rescued from the pound alongside his brother, Paddy now finds himself on his own for the first time after his brother was adopted. While he’s still adjusting, this sweet boy is eager to find a forever family to call his own.
If ever there was a dog who deserves a happily-ever-after, it’s Paddy. With his gentle nature and playful spirit, he’s the perfect mix of sunshine and snuggles — happy to soak up the sun, play with his doggy pals, or simply enjoy human company.
What makes Paddy so special?
Paddy has already shown he has all the makings of a loyal and loving companion. Now, all he needs is someone willing to open their heart and home to him. Could that someone be you?
Email Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc. now at Bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com.
If there are two things every good tradie loves, it’s a bacon-and-egg brekkie and a yarn over a hot coffee. That’s exactly what’s on the menu when Porters Mitre 10 Whitsunday hosts the next Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry Pop Up Chamber on Friday 12 September from 9am to 11am.
This free, drop-in event is all about bringing the Whitsundays business community together – no speeches, no fuss, just great food, fresh coffee from McMoon Coffee Van, a StarFM outdoor broadcast, and a chance to win raffle prizes. Whether you’re a tradie on the go, a small business owner, or just keen to check in with the Chamber team, this is your chance to catch up, connect, and have your say.
Porters Mitre 10 Whitsunday is the perfect host. Since opening its Cannonvale store in 2002, the business has been keeping locals stocked with everything from nuts and bolts to full-scale building materials. Part of the Mitre 10 family since 2017, Porters is still proudly family-owned after more than 140 years. With its specialist paint store, Inspirations Paint Cannonvale, now open inside the store, it’s become a true one-stop shop for the region’s trades, DIY projects, and weekend warriors.
The Pop Up Chamber is open to everyone so bring your work crew, grab a coffee, and enjoy a BBQ brekkie on the house. Stick around for a chance to win some top prizes and meet other business owners who are shaping the Whitsundays.
What: Pop Up Chamber BBQ Brekkie, coffee, and prize draw
When: 9am–11am, Friday 12 September 2025
Where: Porters Mitre 10 Whitsunday, 2 Carlo Drive, Cannonvale
The Whitsunday Business Conference held at TAFE Queensland Cannonvale Campus last Thursday, was a huge success.
Chamber President Allan Milostic said the event was sold out and feedback was outstanding.
“This year’s Conference was a sell-out, with 120 registrations representing 70 organisations across the Whitsundays. Feedback has been outstanding – more than 75% of attendees told us they loved the day, and everyone has walked away with actionable ideas to implement straight away,” he said.
“Delegates also reported stronger connections, fresh insights, and practical tips to improve efficiency and productivity.
“There’s clear support for making this an annual event, and we encourage businesses wanting to be part of the 2026 Conference to get in touch with the Chamber.”
Chamber President Allan Milostic also said the aim of the conference was simple; to provide a regular focal point for the Whitsundays business community and a chance to come together, learn from each other, and tackle the opportunities that lie ahead.
“The idea for the conference started pre-covid with the, then, Proserpine Chamber of Commerce. We returned to the idea in 2024 with the inaugural event held May 2024 with just over 55 people. The feedback we received was overwhelmingly positive, and it helped shape the program you’ll experience today. This year’s conference is truly a step forward, built by locals, for locals,” he said at the conference.
“I’d like to sincerely thank our sponsors, without whom this event would not be possible: Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine, Tassal, Shiift, My Pathway, the Greater Whitsunday Regional Jobs Committee, Mackay and Whitsunday Life, and TAFE Queensland. Your partnership over the 2024 and 2025 conferences has been critical in bringing this vision to life.
“Of course, events like this don’t happen without a lot of work behind the scenes. Our Conference Committee, chaired by Megan Taylor, has worked tirelessly alongside Jannah Baker of Scallywag Fabrication, Julia Wheway of TAFE Queensland, and Dr Julia Evans, our Chamber Liaison. Together with the support of our incredible volunteers, they’ve turned an idea into a program that’s ready to inspire and deliver value to every delegate here today. A big thank you to all of them.”
See more social pics here: https://tinyurl.com/2dghrcuk
Hello everyone!
After an incredible five weeks exploring the Northern Territory and Western Australia, Ruth2Reef is back!
There were so many unforgettable moments on my travels, but one that truly stands out was swimming with humpback whales on the Ningaloo Reef. I joined an eco tour and was lucky enough to get so close that one almost brushed me with its pectoral fin!
I’m excited to share stories, travel tips, and insights from my journey, along with the inspiring environmental initiatives I discovered on that side of the country.
In this weeks very exciting edition we have more on humpback whales, maori wrasse's, and the wonderful whale sharks!
Happy Reading!
Ruth
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