The Whitsunday Lions Club have recently made a $3000 donation to St Catherine's Christian College's Duke of Edinburgh International Award (DofE).

The schools DofE teacher Shantae Ryle runs the course with PCYC Sergeant (Sgt) Billy Li and they greatly appreciate the donation.

This is the first time the school has run the program and the support from Whitsunday Lions Club has funded the students to enrol in the course.

The Whitsunday Lions Club is always donating to schools and community groups across the region but they said the DofE is highly regarded and a great way to do outdoor activities while building skills.

“It’s nice to see people taking a step back and not being so focused on social media, there’s an awful lot of it today, and it’s nice to see them doing something out of their comfort zone,” they said.

“They don't realise it yet; how important it will be later on.

“Encouraging the kids to do this sort of thing is wonderful.”

In DofE campaign at St Catherine's Catholic College, Tuesday is fitness with Sgt Billy Li and he noted that fitness levels have already gone up. Wednesdays students are in the classroom, where they have already discovered their favourite activities.

The class noted that their favourite activities were getting to work together as a team and also improving on their public speaking skills.

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Students from St Catherine's Catholic College with Sergeant Billy Li, Teacher Shantae Ryle, and Members of Whitsunday Lions Club Sue Gravelle, Betty Wilson, and Sue Cobham. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Earlier this month, I had the pleasure of heading to Brisbane for the official launch of Destination 2045: Delivering Queensland’s Tourism Future, hosted by QTIC. It was a major moment for our industry, with over 500 passionate tourism leaders in the room and a clear message: the future of tourism in Queensland is bold, sustainable and full of opportunity.

The plan outlines how we’ll make the most of Queensland’s “green and gold runway” - capitalising on the momentum of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games to boost tourism before, during and long after the main event. It’s all about turning global attention into lasting benefits for our communities and natural environments.

With new investment in aviation, events, ecotourism and tourism infrastructure, Destination 2045 sets out a 20-year roadmap to position Queensland as a world leader in tourism and events. And for regions like ours, that means more chances to grow, innovate and showcase the best of what we offer - from the Reef to the rainforest and everything in between.

We then brought the conversation home on Wednesday the 4th, when the Hon. Andrew Powell, Minister for Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation joined us in Airlie Beach. It was fantastic to hear how this plan translates locally.

And we finished the week with QTIC’s World Environment Day event at Shute Harbour, joined by Craig Davidson from Tourism and Events Queensland and Tash Wheeler from QTIC - spotlighting our commitment to protecting the incredible natural beauty that makes The Whitsundays so special.

Contributed by Tim Booth, CEO, Tourism Whitsundays

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Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth, Hon Andrew Powell, Chair of Tourism Whitsundays Julie Telford, and Elizabeth Hackett. Photo supplied

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Friday 20th June
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Graham Rix(from 8pm)
KC's: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)

Saturday 21st June
Airlie Beach Hotel: Cold Chisel & Midnight Oil Tributes with Swanee (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: DJ Night (from 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: (Live Music & DJ Session 1pm – 6pm)
KC's: Retro Joe (from 8pm)

Sunday 22nd June
Airlie Beach Hotel: Cold Chisel & Midnight Oil Tributes with Swanee (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30 – 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Graham Rix (4pm - 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: Chill Acoustic Session (2pm – 6pm)
KC's: Nick di Gregorio (from 8pm)

Monday 23rd June
KC's: Scotty Wilson (from 8pm)

Tuesday 24th June
KC's: Josiah (from 8pm)

Wednesday 25th June
KC's: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm)

Thursday 26th June
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
KC's: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm)

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June

20 Whitsundays 112th Annual Regional Show Day 1, Proserpine Showgrounds

21 Whitsundays 112th Annual Regional Show Day 2, Proserpine Showgrounds

22 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

24 Sailability, Downstairs at the Whitsunday Sailing Club, Volunteers 8:00am-2:00pm & Sailors/Carers 9:00am-1:00pm, Bookings Required

24 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

25 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp

27 Legends Night by Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network, Reef Gateway Hotel, 6pm - 9pm

29 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

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It’s been a pretty quiet week across the Whitsundays fishing scene, with patchy weather and cooler conditions keeping many anglers at bay. That said, those who have braved the conditions have been rewarded with some quality fish. Let’s hope next winter isn’t as cold as this one has been!

Dam
Thanks to poor conditions, the dam has seen limited traffic this week. Those who headed out managed to get a fish or two, but most catches were modest in size. We did have a couple of reports of nice barra though, which were landed by slow trolling along the edge of the weed beds.

Estuary
The standout this week has been the estuary fishing. Grunter have been around in both good numbers and size, with fresh bait proving to be the key to success. Creek mouths and deeper channels have been the most productive areas.

We’ve also had reports of decent mud crabs being caught. Dropping pots into deeper holes with fresh bait has yielded the best results.

Islands & Offshore
Offshore action has been sporadic but promising in patches. The charter boats have reported some quality coral trout and large nannygai coming over the side.

While bottom fishing has been steady, the real excitement has been on the surface. Mackerel and tuna are thick at the moment, and those chasing them on topwater lures have enjoyed some incredible air strike sessions – an absolute thrill for anyone keen on visual fishing.

The weekend is set to be a windy one, with wind easing during the week. Rug up and do your best to find somewhere protected!

Best of luck out there!

Contributed with thanks to Beth Hockley and Jason Fisher from Tackle World Airlie Beach

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Whitsundays local, Nikki, ticking a Golden Trevally off her list. Photo supplied

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The wait is over—just like a female’s gestation period—and the baby has arrived!

The roof is on, and now the final touches are underway: securing it for a category 5 cyclone, installing downpipes and a drain for excess water, finishing the fences, and before long our little club will be a wonderful sight in our paradise. It’s something the whole community can be proud of.

A big thank you to Amanda Camm for securing the extra funding for those finer finishing touches—it’s much appreciated by all members. Now we no longer have to cancel the schoolchildren if the weather is bad, and the beautiful people from the Endeavour Foundation can come every week, rain, hail or shine.

The revenue we’ve lost over the last seven months will be made up in no time. Free bowls lessons will now be a regular event on Monday and Thursday afternoons between 4 and 5pm, and soon there’ll be cover from the carpark right to the front entrance.

It’s perfect timing too, with the Australian Open currently on in Brisbane.

Anyone in the community is welcome to come down and give bowls a try—or to book their functions now with confidence.

We’re all so excited and can’t wait for the grand opening day!

Contibuted with thanks to Mark Mawson

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The new roof at Airlie Beach Bowls Club. Photo supplied

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In a heartfelt gesture Annie Norris recently donated her hair to Wigs4Kids after finding out that Reverend (Rev) Suzy Sitton, from her church, had been diagnosed with breast cancer for the second time earlier in the year.

Annie said she was inspired by Suzy.

“I have been so inspired by watching her strength, her recovery, her focus and still while conducting funerals and soldiering on really well,” she said.

"I can honestly say my inspiration has come from Susie, just watching this woman and what she's been through, oh my gosh. She really is a hero. She's a hero to me."

Annie had been thinking about cutting her hair and when she found out about Suzy she decided to go ahead, in an effort to show support for a woman she found so inspiring,

Rev Suzy Sitton said she appreciates Annie for donating, and is currently spending her time raising awareness for breast cancer, and is supporting Breast Cancer Research.

Rev Suzy hopes that she can become a success story for others and also noted that the Mobile Breast screening clinic is currently in the region. It is currently at Whitsunday Plaza in Cannonvale.

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Annie Norris and Rev Suzy Sitton before the haircut
Jodi Lorraway, Annie Norris and Rev Suzy Sitton after the cut.

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Bowen State High School Student Olivia Boyce was one of 60 Year 10 students and 10 teachers selected to participate in the Department of Education’s 2025 STEM Girl Power Camp, which was held on 19 - 23 May in Brisbane.

Students travelled from all over Queensland to represent their school in Brisbane, where they participated in a variety of events, innovative science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) workshops and networking opportunities with experts from STEM fields.

Camp students met inspiring role models from diverse fields including, engineering, medicine, chemistry, quantum technologies and mathematical modelling. Students explored STEM pathways at an industry location of their choosing (either Cross River Rail, TechnologyOne, the Ecosciences Precinct or the Integrated Pathology Learning Centre) and discussed the importance of STEM communication at the Queensland Museum and Wheel of Brisbane. Students also participated in a variety of hands-on activities, including world-class biomedical research techniques at SPARQ-ed and led science activities with local primary school students.

The camp fostered students' understanding of STEM's significance in society while enhancing their leadership, critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and communication skills. As 2025 STEM Ambassadors, these students will now organise and deliver a STEM event during National Science Week in Term 3 (August 2025). This initiative aims to inspire others to pursue STEM subjects and careers.

Olivia enjoyed the experience immensively and said "It was one of the best experiences I have ever had throughout my schooling."

"This opportunity has provided me with the knowledge and skills to continue to peruse my interests in STEM throughout my senior studies at Bowen SHS.”

Principal Mr Harris was excited by the opportunities that are available for students at Bowen State High School.

“Our students are exposed to a range of opportunities in STEM, Arts and Sport," he said.

"I strongly encourage students to embrace opportunities that become available to them.”

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The Whitsunday Game Fish Club’s new season kicks off on July 1, with an exciting program planned for all members.

First up is the Mackerel and Reef Fish Rally, taking place on July 19–20. (Reef fish have been added due to Queensland’s mackerel bag and boat limits.) A briefing and educational workshop will be held at 6pm on Thursday, July 17, at the Marine Club on Altmann Avenue, Cannonvale. Topics include rigging trolling baits, lure presentation, and angling techniques for Spanish mackerel and reef fish.

The workshop is a great opportunity—especially for juniors—to join the club, learn new skills, and get involved in the fun, family sport of light tackle game fishing.

Membership is $70 for adults and $35 for juniors, with half going to the Queensland Game Fishing Association, which advocates for anglers, helps protect fisheries, and manages the tag-and-release program.

The club’s competitions are designed around the wide variety of game fish available throughout the year in Whitsunday waters. The major three-day Light Tackle Tournament is set for October when sailfish, tuna, and juvenile black marlin are most active.

Game fishing clubs promote ethical and sporting angling, with a focus on juniors, workshops, and shared knowledge in a welcoming club environment.

Contributed with thanks to Ashley Moore

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Region Picks Up Two First Place

On Monday this week The Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC) announced the 2025 winners of the Top Tourism Town Awards, recognising the outstanding contributions of communities across the state in welcoming visitors year-round.

For the first time ever, Bowen won the Top Tourism Town Awards and Airlie Beach won the Small Tourism Town Awards for the fourth time in a row.

Winning these two awards is not only a testament to the natural wonders we have on our doorstep but also an acknowledgment of the friendly faces throughout our region.

Bowen and Airlie Beach Take Out Top Tourism Honours

Bowen has had a huge few weeks, on Queensland Day Bowen’s Big Mango was named ‘Best Big Thing’ in Queensland and Birds Fish Bar was named ‘Best Fish and Chips’, now for the first time they have won Top Tourism Town in Queensland.

Member for Burdekin Hon Dale Last MP said this is a testament to the whole community.

“This award is well deserved by Bowen’s tourism businesses and the community as a whole.  Whether they are directly involved with tourism or not, Bowen residents are extremely vocal and parochial when it comes to their town, and I am sure those qualities contributed to Bowen securing the award,” he said.

“Take a bow Bowen, you deserve this and I am glad to see your efforts receiving the wide acclaim they deserve.”

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business Leanne Abernethy said winning the award was a proud moment.

“This award capped off a fantastic couple of weeks,” she said.

“These awards are a testament to the dedication of our entire team of staff, volunteers and our supportive committee and I thank them all for their passion, their drive and their local knowledge.

“This award is also for the entire Bowen community and the entire Whitsundays region. We thank everyone for the support of what we do.”

Chair of Bowen Tourism and Business Jenn Honnery said this award proves that Bowen’s focus is on visitors and making sure they feel welcome and providing an amazing beachside experience.

Alongside Bowen, Airlie Beach was also in the national spotlight, after winning the Top Small Tourism Town for the fourth time in a row.

Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP said this award proves that Airlie Beach is a premier tourism destination.

Not only is Airlie Beach the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the Whitsunday Islands, it is also a dynamic town in its own right, with a vibrant local culture for both visitors and locals to enjoy. Congratulations to the residents, businesses and tourism operators of Airlie Beach who have collectively achieved this accolade.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said both Bowen and Airlie Beach winning is a fantastic achievement for the whole region.

“We've won before, but it really reaffirms our position as Queensland's top area for regional tourism,” he said.

“From my perspective, it's not just about individuals. This is a whole of community effort.

“We know that these awards are voted on by visitors in the community and it’s a real reflection on the community itself.

“Our residents are warm and welcoming to visitors and the fantastic efforts by our businesses and tourism bodies make sure our region stands out.”

Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth also said it was great to see the region reaching these heights.

“It’s such an honour to see Airlie Beach take out the Small Tourism Town award for the fourth year in a row. It really shows the heart and hard work of our local tourism operators and community,” he said.

"And with Bowen claiming the title of Top Tourism Town, it’s a fantastic day for the entire Whitsunday region.

"A huge thank you to Whitsunday Regional Council for their ongoing support - these achievements wouldn’t be possible without them.”

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Chair of Bowen Tourism and Business Jenn Honnery, Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth, and Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business Leanne Abernethy celebrating their win. Photo supplied

Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth, Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business Leanne Abernethy, Top Tour Guide Winner Joel McPherson, and Representing 1770 Top Tiny Tourism Town Winner Melissa Smith. Photo supplied

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Hi Everyone,

Hope you're all looking forward to a short week and the fantastic Whitsunday Show - I know I am!

My past weekend was busy but so much fun. Saturday involved four-wheel driving through Cathu State Forest with friends. It's one of my top spots in the Whitsundays, and I always love discovering something new there!

Sunday, though, was profoundly fulfilling. I spent the day planting corals in the Great Barrier Reef as part of a restoration project with an amazing team of divers. You can read more about our experience in the special "Ruth2Reef" edition on pages 24-25.

I've had a lot of "pinch me" moments lately, and this past weekend was definitely one of them! Thinking back to two years ago, working in London and wondering if there was "more to life," I never would have believed I'd be doing this now.

Leaving London in 2023 felt daunting, but I'm incredibly grateful I stepped outside my comfort zone. It's led to unimaginable experiences and a career I'm deeply passionate about. I truly believe that sometimes the scariest path is the one worth taking. If you ever feel bored or stuck, consider it a sign to take that next step. You never know what amazing opportunities are waiting for you!

Enjoy reading & stepping out of your comfort zones!

Ruth

"Coming out of your comfort zone is tough in the beginning, chaotic in the middle, and awesome in the end...because in the end, it shows you a whole new world.” ― Manoj Arora, From the Rat Race to Financial Freedom

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OPINION PIECE

Superannuation is one of Australia's most important vehicles for building a comfortable retirement. Yet many of us only start paying attention to our super balances later in life. So why is super hitting the news and why am I raising it?

The Federal government is planning a super heist and wants to change the goal posts on retirement savings. They are proposing to double the tax rate from 15 per cent to 30 per cent on all super balances valued above $3 million. This is a very bad tax and a very bad economic policy. I am deadset opposed to the proposed tax in any form and I will tell you why.

Firstly, those with large balances will almost certainly look to divest assets to fall below the $3 million threshold. I would be gobsmacked if those with large balances were not already putting in place plans to move investment away should the tax come in. That means billions could leave the super system, reducing total funds under management. Less capital in super means lower investment returns for everyday Australians.

Secondly, this tax undermines confidence in super itself. Australians have been encouraged to put more into super to secure their retirement. But this change signals that the rules can change at any time, and not in a positive way. That uncertainty will discourage additional contributions and weaken the entire system.

Third, the proposal unfairly targets asset-rich but income-poor Australians, particularly farmers. Many family farms are held in self-managed super funds as part of intergenerational planning. These aren't "wealthy investors". Under Labor's plan, an on-paper increase in farmland value could trigger a huge tax bill, even though no cash is received.

My question to Anthony Albanese is, how do you expect our Aussie farmers who are already doing it tough, to pay a tax bill for a fictional profit? If more farmers sell their land off as a consequence, there will be less fresh Aussie produce on the shelves and higher prices at the checkout.

Lastly, the plan in its current form is that this new super tax will not be indexed and additionally, once legislated, future governments could reduce the threshold even further. This isn't just a tax on today's high-balance holders, it's a tax on middle-income Australians of the future.

If Labor is prepared to break the promise on super, what do they plan next? If this tax goes through, could it open the door for Labor to tax the family home?

A change to super affects everyone and the consequences go well beyond a handful of millionaires.

Andrew Willcox MP
Federal Member for Dawson
Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability

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At Aligned Corporate Residences Mackay

Located in the heart of Mackay on Queensland’s Central Coast, Aligned Corporate Residences Mackay offers a relaxed lifestyle in a vibrant, cosmopolitan city. Just an hour’s flight from Brisbane, this idyllic tropical destination is perfectly positioned for business and leisure.

Our central city location places residents within easy walking distance to a variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. With convenient access to the business district, convention centre, Bluewater Lagoon, Mackay Town Beach, and the gateway to the Whitsunday Islands, everything you need is close at hand.

The property features 97 well-appointed residences, including studio, one-, and two-bedroom serviced apartments. Designed for comfort and functionality, our residences offer a welcoming space whether you're staying for a few days or an extended period.

Ideal for extended stays, Aligned Corporate Residences Mackay feels like home. Residents enjoy access to a range of on-site amenities, including a swimming pool and a barbecue grill deck—perfect for relaxing or socialising with fellow residents.

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Callea And Campbell Bring Elton And George To Life

In an unmissable celebration of two of music’s greatest icons, Anthony Callea and Tim Campbell are taking the stage together for a spectacular live national tour, featuring the timeless hits of Elton John and George Michael. The powerhouse duo will bring their electrifying energy to the Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre (MECC) on Saturday 28 June.

Backed by their band, Callea and Campbell will take audiences on a musical journey through the songs that have defined generations. Known for their extraordinary vocal talent, charisma and chemistry, the two beloved performers are set to breathe new life into the iconic pop anthems of Elton and George.

The tour follows a string of sold-out performances at Melbourne’s Hamer Hall and the Sydney Opera House, where the pair shared the stage with John Foreman and the Australian Pops Orchestra. After an outpouring of requests from fans across the country, Anthony and Tim knew they had to hit the road again.

“Going on tour with our band to continue this amazing journey is so exciting,” said Anthony and Tim. “We have been blown away by the reaction to our Hamer Hall and Sydney Opera House shows, and with countless messages on our socials asking us to bring the show to more cities and towns around the country, we decided to take it on the road. We can’t wait to bring the musical genius, fun and good times to as many parts of Australia as possible.”

Paying tribute to George Michael’s magnetic stage presence and Elton John’s high-energy theatricality, the show promises an uplifting and unforgettable live music experience.

Following the smash-hit success of their 2023 Up Close and Unpredictable tour — with 27 sold-out shows — Callea and Campbell are ready to once again wow fans with this heartfelt, high-energy celebration of two legendary artists.

Tickets are on sale now through the MECC Box Office or online at themecc.com.au.

WHAT: Anthony Callea & Tim Campbell – The Songs of Elton & George
WHEN: Saturday 28 June 2025, 7.30pm
WHERE: MECC Auditorium
TICKETS: www.themecc.com.au or MECC Box Office

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A major environmental milestone has been reached in the Mackay–Whitsunday region, with the completion of Queensland’s largest rock fishway on Jolimont Creek, north of Mackay. Spanning over 100 metres, the newly constructed fishway now provides vital upstream passage for native fish species, overcoming a three-metre-high concrete weir that has obstructed migration for more than three decades.

Spearheaded by Mackay Regional Council and funded through the Australian Government’s Reef Guardian Councils program, the project was delivered by Catchment Solutions in partnership with Seaforth Civil, marking a significant win for regional biodiversity and waterway health.

Matt Moore, Fisheries Ecologist at Catchment Solutions, explained that approximately half of the region’s 50 freshwater fish species migrate between the sea and inland freshwater systems as part of their life cycle.

“Fish migration between marine and freshwater habitats is a key requirement for many important recreational, commercial and Indigenous fishery species and is essential to maintain sustainable fish populations,” said Mr Moore.

He highlighted several iconic species likely to benefit, including barramundi, mangrove jack, jungle perch, tarpon, and long-finned eel, along with smaller prey species such as the colourful empire gudgeon.

The fishway functions like a series of underwater stairs, allowing fish to use short bursts of energy to navigate faster-flowing sections before resting in calm pools along the way.

“Our native fish are weak swimmers and poor leapers, so it’s critical we provide conditions like low-velocity zones and deep resting pools to support their upstream journey,” Mr Moore said.

He also noted that the migration is particularly important for juvenile fish, such as young barramundi, which are just 50–100 mm in length when they travel upstream into freshwater wetlands.

“Wetlands offer stable water levels and abundant food resources, helping juvenile fish grow quickly and boosting their chances of survival when they return to saltwater to breed.”

Initial monitoring has confirmed the fishway’s success. In just five days, 15 freshwater species were recorded using the passage, with over 800 fish per day ascending the structure. Sizes ranged from just 16 mm to 750 mm.

Importantly, the monitoring also validated the effectiveness of Catchment Solutions’ innovative nursery slot design. The nursery slot creates a shallow film of water with a reduced velocity boundary layer, enabling even the smallest juvenile fish to safely navigate the fishway.

“It was fantastic to capture footage of tiny juvenile fish using the nursery slot - this size class is often missing from fishway studies on large structures,” Mr Moore added.

Local sugar cane farmer and landholder Rob Ellwood expressed optimism about the project’s impact on recreational fishing in the nearby St Helens to Cape Hillsborough Net Free Fishing Zone.

“Jolimont Creek flows into Murray Creek and into the Net Free Zone, so hopefully the fishway will increase local barramundi populations,” Mr Ellwood said.

Mayor Greg Williamson welcomed the fishway’s early success.

“In the Mackay region, we love our waterways and reef. Recreational fishing is one of the most popular ways our community connects with these environments,” Mayor Williamson said.

“It also has long-term benefits for tourism in the region as our region is well-known for its outstanding fishing,” he said.

“The new fishway will enhance these opportunities even more by helping to boost local fish stocks in the Seaforth and St Helens areas.

“We encourage locals, tourists and visitors alike to enjoy the incredible outdoor lifestyle and fishing experiences our region offers.”

Jolimont fishway is the latest waterway restoration project completed by Catchment Solutions, following similar projects on the Herbert River in Ingham and Scrubby Creek in Logan City. For more information visit www.catchmentsolutions.com.au.

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Jolimont Creek rock fishway in operation during recent fish monitoring. Photo supplied

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