Community News

Family Fun on the Water at Sweeties & Squires Weekend

Family Fun on the Water at Sweeties & Squires Weekend

The Whitsunday Game Fish Club (WGFC), together with its junior arm “Reefies,” is set to host its popular Sweeties & Squires Ladies and Kids Fun Fishing Weekend — a celebration of family, fishing, and fun on the water. Festivities begin on Thursday, April 9, with registration and briefing from 4 pm at the club. The afternoon opens with an important presentation from Maritime Safety Queensland, followed by a weekend overview, registration, pizza, and family activities. Fishing will take place at anglers’ leisure from Saturday morning (April 11) through to lines out at 2 pm on Sunday, April 12. The final weigh-in will be held at 3 pm Sunday, with fish either weighed or measured. Photos of released catches are encouraged and will count toward results. All Queensland size and bag limits apply, and fishing is restricted to rod and reel only. Sunday afternoon will feature presentations and a wide range of prizes awarded on merit — not just size or quantity — ensuring everyone has a chance to win. Highlights include a mystery prize, lucky door prize, raffles, fun activities, great food, and a prize for the best-dressed team. The event is free for WGFC members, with memberships available at the briefing. WGFC and Reefies are also official Play On providers, offering sports vouchers for juniors aged 5–17, covering membership and event entry through to July 2027. What: Sweeties & Squires Ladies and Kids Fun Fishing Weekend
When: April 9th–12th (briefing April 9th from 4pm; fishing April 11th–12th)
Where: Whitsunday Game Fish Club, Altmann Avenue, Cannonvale Captions Photo source: Facebook

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MEET MAISIE

MEET MAISIE

Gentle, sensitive, and incredibly loyal — Maisie is a beautiful girl who just needs the right home to help her continue building confidence. • Age: Approx. 2–3 years • Breed: Dalmatian x • Sex: Female • Size: Approx. 25kg • Energy Level: Medium Good With: Children: Yes Dogs: Yes Cats: No Livestock: Yes Chooks: OK under supervision Personality: Gentle Loyal Affectionate Sensitive Bonds closely to her people Ideal Home: Secure fencing required Calm, patient household Someone willing to build trust and continue her confidence Family environment preferred Health: Desexed Vaccinated Microchipped Up to date with vet care Adoption Fee: $400 To apply, please message us Bowen Collinsville Pet Resuce Inc.

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IT CAN BE DONE Clear View Gardens - Long Island – Palm Bay

IT CAN BE DONE Clear View Gardens - Long Island – Palm Bay

Immediately prior to 1930, Long Island was held by Mrs Frances Altmann under a special lease but following her death in 1930, the island was subdivided into three sections and offered for sale. The central section (240 acres) was bought by William Lewis Grant who eventually sold it in 1935 to Mr Timothy Croft. The following is an extract from “The Queensland Annual” (November 6 1934) On the western boundary of glorious Whitsunday Passage is a dot on the map which close at hand becomes an island five miles long running almost due north and south, separated from the coast by a stretch of water about a mile wide for the most part and as calm as broad river – Long Island and its Sound. Early in October 1931, a steamer called at the island, and from it disembarked W.L. Grant and the folk he had chosen to help him. A motor launch, a flattie, building materials, tools and provisions were unloaded also, and the steamer went on her way. Grant often smiles now when he looks back on the seriousness with which he tackled the problems of those few first weeks. He had got himself a long lease of a rich scrub area on Clear View Bay, and now faced the job of building an island home. In those first few months, he lived some of the chapters of the Swiss Family Robinson. They chopped a clearing in the scrub; built a temporary shack; planted paw paws, tomatoes and vegetables and they started to grow prolifically. Grant decided that was one department that would run itself. But he was no vegetarian, and days of more hand blistering and muscle wearying toil followed in the scrub, as young saplings were cut and hauled to the beach. They were to be part of the fish-trap and had to be sturdy to carry the heavy gauge wire netting. “It’s a lot of work and expense,” Mr. Grant says, “but a trap is a good investment, for we have had plenty of fish of great variety, and we always keep a stack of smoked fish which is our standby when spring tides prevent our getting fish.” Days slid into weeks, weeks into months. Each day had its problems, each its discoveries, each its triumphs. The man whose life had been lived at the grueling pace set by modern business slowed his gait. The pocket handkerchief of a clearing expanded to a green tablecloth upon which stood all manner of trees and scrubs and vines – bananas, custard apples, figs, mulberries, jackfruit, pomegranates, avocados, Queensland nuts, lychee nuts and citrus; sweet and English potatoes and a dozen other vegetables, maize and kaffir corn. Another clearing was made, and netted, a thatched shelter was built, and one day from opened crates two score Leghorns and Orrington emerged. In the beginning, all effort had to be concentrated on food and shelter, but once assured, attention was turned to flowers. The story of the orchard was repeated and Clear View Bay became Clear View Gardens. Roses, hardy annuals, ferns, coleus, hibiscus, frangipani, aralia, asparagus, poincianas, crotons, regia, bougainvillea and scores of others flourished side by side. In time, the island home began to pay its way as cultivated acres yielded ever increasing surpluses which the coast would buy. The idealist in W.L. Grant was strong enough to sever the bonds of humdrum life – the businessman in him organised his own romance. Some of that camping party on Nor-West Island had shaken their heads in doubt, but Grant knew that it could be done – and he did it! Story sourced from “The Queensland Annual” (November 6 1934) and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum Society. Captions Mrs Croft holding Keith Holmes and Pam Holmes at Clear View Gardens Long Island in the late 1930s

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Sophia Cross: Driving Growth and Opportunity in the Whitsundays Property Market

Sophia Cross: Driving Growth and Opportunity in the Whitsundays Property Market

Sophia Cross of Shute Harbour Marina Sales is bringing energy, expertise and a genuine passion for the region to the Whitsundays property market. Originally from Perth, Sophia and her family relocated from New Zealand, where they managed a large-scale sheep and beef farm, to embrace the tropical lifestyle and opportunities of the Whitsundays. Alongside her two energetic young boys, she has quickly immersed herself in the local community. Before entering real estate, Sophia built a strong professional foundation in civil and structural drafting and electrical estimating. Her experience spans a range of projects in Perth, from smaller developments through to major landmarks such as Fiona Stanley Hospital and Perth Arena. This technical background has given her a keen eye for detail and a solid understanding of construction and development. In early 2020, Sophia made the move into real estate and hasn’t looked back. Combining her engineering knowledge with her growing industry experience, she has found her niche in project sales, playing a key role in the Shute Harbour Marina Resort development. The position has proven to be a natural fit, allowing her to guide clients with confidence and insight. Sophia is passionate about contributing to the continued growth and revitalisation of the Whitsundays. She is committed to delivering the high level of service the Taylors name is known for, while helping both locals and newcomers find their place in this vibrant coastal community. Captions Photo sourced

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Woolworths Happy Easter

A Luxurious Tour of Marina Shores

April 23, 2025

Nestled along the pristine waterfront of the Coral Sea, Marina Shores Airlie beach offers guests an unparalleled fusion of luxury, style and striking views. My recent tour of this exquisite property, under the guidance of the knowledgeable Ross Martin. Demonstrated why Marina Shores raises the bar for luxury living in the Whitsundays. From its elegantly designed accomodations to it’s enviable amenities, Marina Shores is a for seekers of indulgence and serenity.

The tour commenced with a journey through the property’s diverse range of rooms, each painstakingly tailored to maximise comfort and capitalise on the stunning surroundings of the Whitsunday coast. On the ground floor, I viewed the one-bedrom apartments. These spacious units exude modern grace and elegance, with open-plan layouts and large windows that warmly invite natural light. Ascending to the second floor, Ross introduced the two and three bedroom apartments, Which offer Garden, Marina or Ocean views. Ideal for families or groups, these cosy abodes provide ample space and private decks perfectly suited for soaking in the beauty of the Whitsunday Islands.The highlight however, was the third-floor penthouses. Available in two, three or four-bedroom layouts, these lavishly luxurious suites boast both Marina and Ocean views, featuring expansive decks perfect for entertaining guests or quiet reflection. Designed by renowned Ken Down Architects, every room at Marina Shores features vogue interiors, state-of-the-art lightning, and a harmonious interplay of space, light and colour.

Beyond luxury accomodation, Marina Shores offers amenities which uplift the guest experience to even greater heights. Ross proudly showcased the large, heated pool, a standout feature that ensures year-round enjoyment for guests, especially on cool winter nights. The property’s viewing platform cosily tucked away in the back was a personal favourite. This vantage point presents a panoramic view of the surrounding woodland and marina, furnishing guests with a serene spot to relax and unwind. These excellent facilities combined with the fully self-contained, serviced apartments, serve to make Marina Shores a must stay destination which caters to both relaxation and sophistication.

Ross also shared insights into the broader portfolio of the at Hotel Group, which manages Marina Shores. The group oversees an impressive 1,010 properties across Australia, including eight in Airlie Beach, They also operate the Grand Mercure on the tropical gem of Magnetic Island, and a Mantra property in the quaint coastal retreat of Nelson Bay. This diverse collection underscores the group’s commitment to delivering exceptional hospitality in some of Australia’s most sought-after destinations.

Marina Shores is the jewel of Airlie Beach’s crown. Situated at Abel Point Marina and offering wonderous waterfront living with views  spanning across the Whitsunday Islands. The property’s design prioritizes pure decadence, with spacious decks, luxurious finishes, and an ambiance of both exclusivity and inticement. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family holiday, or a lavish escape, Marina Shores delivers an experience as unforgettable as the Whitsundays themselves. For those planning a visit, this property promises not just a stay, but the experience of a lifetime.

Waterview Apartment in Marina Shores. Photo Supplied.
Apartment Room In Marina Shores. Photo Supplied.
Bedroom in Marina Shores. Photo Supplied.

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A Slugs Life

December 2, 2025

By Ruth Puddefoot

Blink and you’ll miss them, but catch a glimpse and you might think you’ve discovered an alien lifeform. Nudibranchs are the ocean’s most flamboyant residents: tiny, slow-moving sea slugs adorned in neon colours, wild patterns and surreal shapes. Like living confetti, they drift across the seafloor. For divers in the know, spotting one is a very special moment.

These vibrant creatures come in an astonishing array of shapes, sizes and colours. Yet despite their dazzling appearance, nudibranchs can be surprisingly difficult to find, often camouflaging perfectly with their surroundings.

They inhabit a wide range of marine environments, from shallow rock pools and coral reefs to sandy seabeds and the dark depths more than 2,000 metres below the surface. As benthic animals, they spend their lives crawling along the ocean floor.

But nudibranchs are more than just a visual delight. As carnivores, they play a vital role in the marine food web, feeding on sea anemones, sponges, soft corals, tunicates and other invertebrates, while also serving as prey for other sea slugs, crabs, lobsters, turtles and even humans. Most of their time is spent grazing or hunting for food.

To eat, many rely on a specialised, toothed structure called a radula, used to scrape or tear food from surfaces. Some species go further, injecting prey with digestive enzymes before sucking out the liquefied tissues. Others have developed a remarkable partnership with symbiotic algae, harnessing sunlight to produce energy in a process similar to corals.

Beyond their ecological role, nudibranchs are gaining recognition as important indicator species. Their populations respond rapidly to changes in the environment, making them valuable barometers of ocean health. A sudden increase or decline in nudibranch numbers can signal broader environmental shifts, particularly those driven by climate change. As coral reefs are one of their preferred habitats and are among the most vulnerable ecosystems, the presence of nudibranchs can reveal much about their condition and resilience.

Fast fact: Nudi's were unknown until the 18th century

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Dive In and Reeflect

May 1, 2025

Hi everyone,

As promised, here is the extended edition of Ruth2Reef!

I’m excited to bring you three full pages of fascinating environmental news from around the Whitsundays.

In this week’s edition, we explore the geological history of the Whitsundays and how the region was formed, dive into the vibrant world of nudibranchs, and share some amazing reef and whale facts.

I spotted my first nudibranch a few weeks ago and it was absolutely beautiful. It was tiny, bright blue, and slowly making its way across a coral formation.

If you have an environmental story for me please send it to ruth@lifepublishinggroup.com, I would love to hear from you!

Ruth

"We can't just continue living as if there was no tomorrow, because there is a tomorrow." - Greta Thunberg.

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The Armchair Warrior

April 23, 2025

Only one more week until the big dance – election day is next Saturday. Candidates will be making their final pitches. Chances are though, many voters have already made up their minds and are heading for an early vote. Early polling opened this week and people can cast their vote anytime from now until polls close on May 3rd.

At the 2022 election 32.2% of eligible voters chose to cast their vote before polling day with another 15.9% sending in postal votes. That is a whopping 48.1% of Australian voters had made up their minds early. Many political commentators expect to see a similar figure replicated this year. However, many suggest that while there is a large block of voters who have long known where their vote is headed, a large number are still undecided.

With so many voters this year still undecided, could we see a late surge in support for one of the two major parties or maybe like in 2022 will votes be parked with minor parties and independents?

The betting agents say a hung parliament is on the cards which will result in a drawn out declaration of who forms government. In 2010, the Labor government hung onto power via a minority government before a comprehensive victory by the Coalition in 2013. Could history repeat?

The fallout of the election will make for interesting watching as the outcome usually sees decisions on the futures of political careers made. Unless there is a definitive victory, behind closed doors the caucus of each political party will discuss, debate and unpack the election and decide if a new leader will be best to take them forward.

There is some speculation that Albanese already has one eye on his NSW Central Coast property and unless Labor win a majority this will be his last trip to the big dance. The school of thought is that if the Coalition claim victory his resignation from parliament will be weeks or months after the election, and if Labor secure victory but via a minority, he will pass the baton on half way through the term. Doing this would give time for a new voice to take over and if need be pivot central polices in the hope of avoiding a landslide outcome like that of 2013.

Both Albanese and Dutton are spruiking confidence that they can secure a majority government. They both say they have a plan for Australia’s future.

If Albanese is thinking this could be his last campaign, is he going to pull some last minute moves and throw a Hail Mary or can Dutton successfully sell the Coalition’s message for a majority? Either way, the outcome as to who will lead Australia for the next 3 years will be known soon, albeit if there is a hung parliament there may be a bit of a delay.

Bottom line – Leaders are not forever but the direction the country takes under their leadership can be long lasting.

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Unity Not Division OPINION PIECE by Federal Member For Dawson Andrew Willcox

April 23, 2025

The price tag for Labor’s failed ‘Voice’referendum hit more than half a billion dollars. At a
time when Australians are doing it tough, that money could have helped ease cost of
living pressures, putting food on the table, covering rent, or paying power bills.

Here in Dawson, I hear from families every week who are struggling just to get by. Cost of
living pressures are crushing our local communities, yet the Albanese Government chose
to pour hundreds of millions into a divisive referendum that failed to deliver any practical
outcome.

Nearly 61% of Australians said “No,” and in Dawson, more than 80% rejected Labor’s
‘Voice’ proposal. The message was clear: Australians want unity, not more bureaucracy.

On top of this failed and expensive referendum, Labor has made no real impact in
improving the lives of indigenous people living in remote communities.

I made my position clear from the start. Like many here in Dawson, I saw the Voice as the
wrong approach, out of touch with real community needs. The failed referendum
highlighted how disconnected Labor is from ordinary Australians.

The Coalition believes in one Australia, united under one flag, proud of our history, and
inclusive of both Indigenous and non-Indigenous cultures. As Prime Minister, Peter
Dutton has committed to representing all Australians with leadership grounded in
common sense and shared values, vowing to stand in front of just the Australian flag.

Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price, a proud Indigenous Australian with firsthand
experience of life in remote communities, will be a strong Minister for Indigenous Affairs
in a Coalition government, focused on real outcomes, not symbolism.

We’ll invest in better housing, health, education, and jobs where they’re needed most, delivering
practical change to close the gap.

A Coalition government will focus on practical solutions that bring Australians together
and not waste tax payer’s money on creating division and more bureaucracy. We
understand the strain on everyday Australians, from struggling families, to young people
finding their way into work and housing, and to pensioners on fixed incomes.

By cutting unnecessary government spending, reducing red tape, and supporting local businesses,
the Coalition will help ease cost of living pressures. We’ll invest in housing, job creation,
and make it easier for first-time homebuyers to enter the market.

Unlike Labor’s divisive agenda, the Coalition is committed to uniting the country and growing a stronger, more prosperous future for all Australians.

A Dutton/Littleproud Coalition Government will focus on what unites us. We will grow a
stronger, united future.

The Coalition is ready to lead — one people, one future, under one flag.

Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP with Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price who could be a strong Minister for Indigenous Affairs in a Coalition government. Photo supplied

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“For our tomorrows, they gave of their todays”.

May 1, 2025

Proserpine has a rich military history dating back to the Boer War and since then generations of men and women from this community have answered the call. Some made the supreme sacrifice and are remembered on our cenotaph. Others suffered the horrors of being a prisoner of war, either dying in captivity or returning home as shadows of their former selves.

It would have been heart-wrenching for families to watch their sons head off to war, but imagine what it must have been like for those who saw more than one child enlist. Such was the case for several families in Proserpine in both world wars.

In World War Two, four of five Farrell brothers; sons of James Joseph Farrell and Mary Teresa (nee Brennan) volunteered to serve their country. Further adding to the anguish that must have been felt at this time, Mary Farrell, known to most as Tessie, was a widow having lost her husband in 1938. To add to her heartache, two of her boys died on active service.

In this feature, we pay tribute to the four brothers Farrell and we thank them for their service.

Lance Corporal Jack Thomas Farrell QX11230 (2/26th Battalion - F Force) POW Died on Active Service

Born December 3 1918, Jack (John) enlisted at Miowera on July 3 1940 along with several other Proserpine men and was deployed to Singapore in 1941. Captured when the Japanese over ran Malaya, he spent several years in various Japanese prison camps and worked on the construction of the infamous Thai-Burma Railway line.

Soon after the family received word of his safety, they learnt that his years of captivity had undermined his health and he was placed on the army’s dangerously ill list. On October 27 1945, Jack returned to Australia on the hospital ship “Manunda”. He was taken to Concorde Military Hospital but sadly died on October 29 only two days after arriving in his home country. His mother was enroute to Sydney by train to meet Jack but in Brisbane she received the sad news by telegram of his passing away.

Lance Corporal Jack Farrell is buried in the Sydney War Cemetery, Rockwood. He is remembered on the Proserpine Cenotaph and his name is located at Panel 53 in the commemorative area at the Australian War Memorial.

Joseph Farrell QX 24851 (2/7TH Battalion) KIA

Born June 22 1922, Joseph, whose real name was Patrick but known as Joe, was the youngest of Farrell brothers. He signed up on January 1 1942. Joe was killed in action. He died at Mubo on August 23 1943 during the Salamaua – Lae campaign in New Guinea with the 2/7th Battalion. He was reinterred on May 5 1946 in the Lae War Cemetery SB 12 and is remembered on the Proserpine Cenotaph.

James Joseph Farrell QX27969 (Z Special Unit)

Born August 8 1911, James, known as Jim, was married and the eldest, enlisting on February 2 1942. He was a member of Z Special Unit which was a training school set up outside Cairns. In February 1943, special operations were reorganised under Special Operations Australia (SOA); sometimes known as Special Reconnaissance Department. Z Unit, which came under the control of SOA, conducted 81 covert raids in WW2.

James was posted to Thursday Island Fortress with Torres Strait Force and to Morotai with Z Special Unit. He was discharged November 26 1945. James was an active returned soldier and would regularly act as MC at dances held to raise money after the war. He worked at Faust Bros. Hardware Store.

James Joseph Farrell passed away November 11 1962, aged 51, and is buried in the Proserpine Cemetery.

Sapper Eric John Farrell Q112034 (11 Field Company)

Eric, born March 12 1913, enlisted before his older brother on June 21 1941 and served for 203 days until he was discharged twelve months later, on June 26 1942, classified as an essential service person - those who worked on a farm, in a mine, or in a business that needed some of their men. When Japan entered the war, many men dropped their tools and enlisted, leaving the workforce very low and affecting the country’s ability to produce items necessary for both the military and civilians.

Eric Farrell worked as a labourer in the sugar industry on both farm and in the mill. He was called back to cut cane.

Eric John Farrell died May 18 1967, aged 54 and is buried in the Proserpine Cemetery.

Lest we Forget

Lance Corporal Jack Farrell
Eric John Farrell
Private Joseph (Joe) Farrell
Private James Joseph Farrell

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A Minute With The Mayor

May 1, 2025

Everywhere I go in the Whitsundays, I hear the same concern: insurance is becoming unaffordable. Whether it's families, small business owners, or strata property holders — the cost of protecting what matters most has blown out.

And during a cost-of-living crisis, those costs hit even harder. Too many people are being forced to go without insurance or settle for inadequate cover.

This leaves our communities exposed and underprepared — especially in regions like ours, where extreme weather events are a known risk.

What’s most frustrating is that we’ve done the right thing. Across Queensland, councils have invested heavily in flood mitigation, resilience infrastructure, and natural hazard planning to reduce risk and better protect our communities.

Yet, despite these efforts, we’re still seeing insurance premiums skyrocket by 100%, 200% — even 500% in some areas. It’s unsustainable, it’s unfair, and it’s leaving too many Queenslanders behind.

That’s why councils across the state, including Whitsunday Regional Council, are calling on the Federal Government to take urgent action.

We want to see:

Greater transparency in how premiums are set, including proper recognition of local mitigation measures;

Increased affordability and availability of insurance — for homes, strata title holders, and businesses alike;

A holistic review of the Australian Cyclone Reinsurance Pool, including extended claims periods and broader eligibility for cyclone and flood-related damage.

We are doing our part to make our communities safer and more resilient, but we need a system that recognises and rewards those efforts, not penalises them.

It’s time for a fairer insurance framework that supports regional Queenslanders, protects livelihoods, and strengthens our ability to bounce back when disaster strikes.

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Choc It In The Right Bin

December 2, 2025

By Ruth Puddefoot

As the Easter treats disappear, the foil starts piling up, it is important to remember that Aluminium foil is fully recyclable. To make sure it actually gets recycled and doesn’t get mistaken for paper, scrunch your wrappers together into a ball about the size of your fist.

If you somehow didn’t get through enough chocolate to make a fist-sized ball of foil (hard to believe, but it happens!), you can pop those smaller bits into an empty aluminium drink can. Once it’s full, pinch the top closed and drop it in your recycling bin... easy!

Who knows? That Easter wrapper could one day come back as a drink can, a toy, more foil, or even part of a plane!

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You're invited: QTIC World Environment Day Event

April 23, 2025

The Queensland Tourism Industry Council, in partnership with Whitsunday Regional Council, invites you to join us for a special World Environment Day event on Thursday 5 June at 3:00pm.

Taking place at Shute Harbour Marine Terminal, this event is all about bringing sustainability into the spotlight and exploring how we can build a more environmentally-conscious tourism industry - right here in one of Queensland’s most iconic regions.

Whether you're just getting started on your sustainability journey or already leading the charge, this is a great opportunity to connect with others, share ideas and be part of the conversation shaping the future of tourism in Queensland.

There’ll be inspiring speakers, local insights, and a chance to reflect on how we can all play a part in protecting the natural places we rely on and love.

Everyone is welcome - come along, get inspired, and help us celebrate World Environment Day. Early bird tickets are now on sale at https://www.localtickets.com.au/

Contributed With thanks to Tourism Whitsundays

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PRE-POLL OPENS, DEBATES BEGIN! Local Forums Take Centre Stage As Election Race Heats Up

April 23, 2025

Pre-polling opened this week, marking a pivotal moment in the Federal Election race as candidates ramp up their campaigns, attending events, meeting voters, and making their case for the title.

Last week, the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry hosted a Meet the Federal Election Candidates Event, where attendees were eager to hear about the candidates' plans and promises. This will be followed by a formal debate in Mackay this Wednesday. The Australian Federal Election will be held on Saturday 3rd May.

Allan Milostic President of the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Amanda Nickson from the Family First Party, Michael Lockyer from the Trumpet of Patriots, current Federal Member for Dawson and LNP candidate Andrew Willcox, Labor candidate Neil Wallace, Greens candidate Paula Creen, Independent Queensland Senate candidate Jason Brown and facilitator Judy Porter. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Did You Know

April 23, 2025

The Mayor’s Charity ball is a fundraising event with all proceeds supporting BMA CQ rescue, the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre and the Bowen Community Centre. The event is fully funded through tickets sales and sponsorships.

There are multiple sponsorship levels available, from becoming a Platinum sponsor to donating a prize for the auction or mystery reveal game. Sponsors are acknowledged during the Mayor’s Charity Ball promotional activities as well as at the event.

For more information on becoming a sponsor, email mayorscharityball@wrc.qld.gov.au or call 1300 972 753.

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ANZAC Day Services 2025

April 23, 2025

Residents across the Whitsunday region are invited to honour the sacrifices of our servicemen and women at a series of ANZAC Day services taking place on Friday, 25 April 2025.

From dawn services to community marches, come together to reflect, remember, and pay tribute to those that lost their lives.

Please note service times and road closures in your area, and allow extra time for travel and parking.

Airlie Beach
Main Service: 9:00am - meet at Broadwater Avenue carpark at 8am for march to Airlie Esplanade Cenotaph

Airlie Main Street will be closed from 6am - 10:30am

Bowen
Dawn Service: 5:50am - Herbert Street Cenotaph
Herbert Street closed between Gordon Street and Poole Street in both directions from 5:30am to 6:30am
Main Service: 9:30am - meet at RSL at 8:50am for march to the Cenotaph

Partial closure Williams Street to Bowen Cenotaph Herbert Street. Closure from 8:00am to 10:30am

Cannonvale
Dawn Service: 5:30am - Coral Esplanade Cenotaph

Collinsville
Dawn Service: 6:00am - Stanley Street Cenotaph
Main Service: 9:00am - meet at Foodworks at 8:45am for march to the Cenotaph

Full road closure of Stanley Street, beginning at Railway Road and ending at Birralee Street between 8:15am and 9:15am

Proserpine
Dawn Service: 4:30am - Ken McPherson Memorial Gardens Cenotaph
Main Service: 10:50am - meet at the RSL at 10:30am for march to the Cenotaph

Partial Road Closure 5:00am to approximately 12:00pm. Detours in place - Streets affected Marathon Street, Herbert Street, Mill Street and Hinschen Street
For further information, please contact your local RSL Branch.

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A Blast From The Past - The Explosive Origins of the Whitsundays

December 2, 2025

By Ruth Puddefoot

The story of the Whitsundays begins more than 100 million years ago, when Australia was still part of the ancient supercontinent Gondwana. As the landmass slowly broke apart and drifted, volcanoes became active across what is now Queensland.

The Whitsundays have a fiery past that stretches back tens of millions of years. Around 110 million years ago, this region was part of a geologically active zone. For roughly 37 million years, volcanoes dominated the landscape with explosive eruptions that covered the area in ash and rock. Over time, these layers hardened into solid bedrock, which can still be seen today on islands like Whitsunday and Hook. These greenish-grey to brown rocks have been slowly sculpted by the ocean ever since.

In later periods, less violent volcanic activity pushed molten lava into cracks in the bedrock, creating vertical bands of darker rock called dykes. These are also visible on Hook Island.

Throughout this period, the Earth’s crust kept shifting. As tectonic plates moved and collided, they created mountain ranges across the globe, including parts of what would become the Great Dividing Range. In central Queensland, some of these ancient peaks eventually became the Whitsunday Islands.

These islands are known as continental islands because they were once part of mainland Australia. The Whitsundays are made from the rocky remains of an old mountain range.

Over millions of years, shifting climates caused sea levels to rise and fall with the ice ages. Each time the glaciers advanced or melted, the coastline moved. At one stage, it may have stretched up to 200 kilometres further east than it does today.

About 10,000 years ago, as the last ice age ended, melting glaciers caused sea levels to rise again. The Coral Sea flooded the coastal plains, leaving only the highest peaks and ridges above water, forming the rocky island chain we know today as the Whitsundays.

One of the most iconic features of the region is its vivid blue water. That signature aquamarine hue comes from fine sediment suspended in the sea, which scatters sunlight and creates the vibrant colour that visitors love.

Then there’s the dazzling white sand of Whitehaven Beach. Unlike most local beaches that have coarse sand made from broken coral and shell, Whitehaven’s sand is pure silica. Its origin remains a bit of a mystery, as the surrounding rock doesn’t contain much quartz.

Most scientists believe the sand was carried north along the Queensland coast by ocean currents millions of years ago. It settled at Whitehaven, caught between rocky headlands. Over time, freshwater filtered through the dunes, washing out impurities and leaving behind the fine, brilliant-white sand. When the sea rose again about 10,000 years ago, it reached the base of these ancient dunes, and Whitehaven Beach was born.

Whitsunday Island landscape. Photo credit: Ruth Puddefoot.

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Tripping Magazine Photo Comp Winner Barb Hill

April 23, 2025

Barb Hill has been taking photos of landscapes and nature on her phone for as long as she can remember.

But no place has made her as emotional as The Barron Falls. The falls were on her bucket list for some time before she finally got to see them.

Barb visited after flooding hit the north and was overcome with emotion.

“Once I got there, I could see how it was raging in such beauty,” said Barb.

“I was overcome with emotion and awe. I stood there for ages, and probably, a good hour or so.”

When Barb isn’t taking photos, she is heavily involved in the community. She works as a Family Support Facilitator for DrugARM in Mackay through to the Whitsundays, including Bowen and Collinsville.

Beyond DrugARM, Barb is also a founding ambassador for Real Mates Talk, a men’s campaign that intends to prevent suicide attempts and deaths.

She also plays an active role in supporting the region’s homeless community.

Each week, Barb participates in outreach events, including barbecues and drop-in sessions, it’s a crucial support centre for those experiencing homelessness.

“It's about connecting and conversations. We are there every week,” said Barb.

“We're there, and people know that we are there at that time.”

In an exciting new venture Barb has created The Y Project, a youth-focused music initiative. Importantly, the project focuses on youth suicide prevention, providing a positive and supportive outlet for teens and young adults.

Barb’s enthusiasm is infectious, and it’s clear the combination of photography, community service, and music events fuels her passion for making a difference.

To enter the Tripping Magazine photo comp please send your photos to ruby@lifepublinggroup.com

Winner of March/April Tripping Photo Competition, Barb Hill's photograph of The Barron Falls

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The Whitsunday Chamber Of Commerce And Industry Meet The Federal Election Candidates Event

April 23, 2025

In the lead up to the Federal Election on Saturday May 3, Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry hosted a Meet the Federal Election Candidates Event, last Tuesday.

The event began with a statement from Queensland Senate candidate Jason Brown – Independent. Jason was given six minutes to answer the following questions.

  • What are your business credentials and experience?
  • As an elected senator for Queensland, what will you specifically do, and how will you achieve it?
  • Political history indicates that to be a successful Senate candidate, you will need a preference strategy which favours minor part. Do you have any preference deals? And if you don't, how are you anticipating winning the quota?
  • As a member of the Senate, who will you support when it comes to voting on legislation?
  • As you are expected to read, every piece of legislation on its merits. And how will you do this? And what resources will you use to help you?
  • Why will you be the best candidate for the Whitsunday business community?

A forum with the House of Representatives candidates followed, and it was facilitated by Judy Porter, of Shiift.

Paula Creen – Australian Greens
Michael Lockyer – Trumpet of Patriots
Amanda Nickson – Family First Party
Neil Wallace – Australian Labor Party
Andrew Willcox – Liberal National Party

In addition to presenting their business experience and vision for the region, candidates responded to questions on:

  • Federal funding for urgent road improvements,
  • Insurance accessibility and affordability,
  • All-weather tourism and seasonal visitor flow,
  • Government spending and economic efficiency,
  • Possibilities for Proserpine,
  • and more.

Chamber President Allan Milostic said Chamber was proud to facilitate the forum, and to give businesses in the region the opportunity to hear directly from those seeking to represent the Whitsundays at the federal level.

“As the united voice of business in our region, the Chamber is committed to ensuring that local priorities are understood, and that policy decisions are informed by the practical realities faced by those who live and work here,” he said.

“The event provided an opportunity for open, respectful discussion on the issues that matter to our members—economic growth, infrastructure, workforce, regulatory reform, and regional investment.

“We encouraged all candidates to speak directly to how their policies will support the long-term prosperity of our businesses and communities.

“We were delighted with the strong turn out and participation from the candidates.”

Amanda Nickson, Michael Lockyer, Andrew Willcox, Neil Wallace, Paula Creen and Jason Brown

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