Bowen River Rodeo and Campdraft is taking place right now and running throughout the weekend, the exciting event once again supporting highly regarded charity Buck Off Melanoma which is celebrating its 10th year this year.

The charity’s founder, Janice Brown, has been a passionate advocate for Melanoma Research following her son’s Melanoma diagnosis and, over the last decade, has raised over $150,000.

A self-funded charity, 100 per cent of the proceeds go directly to the QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute to assist in the research for a cure for Melanoma. 

Over the years, life-extending drugs have been made available, and helped people living with Melanoma to live longer.

Janice would like to thank all the different community events over the years that have been benefactors for Buck Off Melanoma.

“Thank you so much for all your help and thank you to every person that has supported us over the years,” expressed Janice.

Back in 2016, the scientists from QMIR Berghofer Medical Research Institute came to Bowen for a special community walk to raise awareness for using sunscreen to prevent Melanoma.

This year, Janice is pleased to report they are back and will be attending Bowen River Rodeo and Campdraft this Sunday to meet people and to answer any questions in regards to Melanoma. 

In fact, Sunday at the Rodeo is all about Buck Off Melanoma with all the riders wearing special branded shirts that raise awareness for the cause.

This is thanks to Scotty Prosser from Liberty Fuel who has kindly contributed to the shirts this year.

There are 60 shirts in total and the whole event will be themed with the special branded shirts for the whole day.

According to ABS data, of the Australians living with cancer in 2017-18, nearly one in three (30.8%) had skin cancer, making this the most common type of cancer.

It is estimated that at the end of 2018, there were 216,408 people in Australia living with melanoma who had been diagnosed between 1982 and 2018.
At least 2 in 3 Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer in their lifetime, and the risk is higher in men than in women.

Prevent Skin Cancer By:

   • Slip on some sun-protective clothing that covers as much skin as possible.
   • Slop on broad spectrum, water resistant SPF30 (or higher) sunscreen. Put it on 20 minutes before you go outdoors and every two hours afterwards. Sunscreen should never be used to extend the time you spend in the sun.
   • Slap on a hat – broad brim or legionnaire style to protect your face, head, neck and ears.
   • Seek shade.
   • Slide on some sunglasses – make sure they meet Australian Standards.

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WHAT: Bowen Rodeo and Campdraft
WHEN: 6-9 June
WHERE: 41 Mt Wyatt Road, Collinsville

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The community is invited to come down to the Reef Gateway Hotel next month for a special event which is set to raise awareness and funds for the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network.

Not only does this event support a meaningful cause, it is also hosted by some well-known sporting heroes and other inspiring role-models who will share their own journeys in mental health and finding fulfillment.

A Night with Legends is your opportunity to hear from ex professional sports men, interact with them, learn from their stories and connect with others.

NRL legend, Shane Webcke, former AFL player Peter ‘Spida’ Everitt, Brant Webb one of the miners trapped at Beaconsfield Gold Mine in Tasmania in 2006, and Rob Payne owner of Mark Twain yacht, all talk about their experiences and their belief in perseverance.

The evening will include raffles, auction items, live music, and food and drink.

All proceeds from the evening go towards funding activities and events for Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network.

The Network provides free counselling for those effected by suicide, it also offers free weekly Breathing Sessions which are open to all community members, and many other incredible services.

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What: Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Fundraiser
When: Saturday 13th July - 5.30pm till 9.30pm
Where: Reef Gateway Hotel
Tickets $125 + booking fee, Tickets available online https://bit.ly/ANightWithLegends

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NRL legend, Shane Webcke
Former AFL player Peter ‘Spida’ Everitt

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The Little Mango at Bowen’s Front Beach has had a facelift.

The six-metre high Little Mango has been repaired and re-painted by Martin of Gwada Murals.

The structure is a smaller replica of Bowen’s 10 metre “Big Mango” on the Bruce Highway south of Bowen.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy thanked Whitsunday Regional Council for ensuring the Little Mango was ripe again in time for the busy winter tourism season.

“The Little Mango is located right near the information booth manned by our volunteers – and they were very pleased to see the structure has been repainted,” said Leanne.
 
In 2014, Bowen’s 10 metre ‘Big Mango’ was removed and news of it being stolen made international headlines.

It was mentioned in more than 3,000 media reports and reached over 25 million people worldwide.

It was then revealed the restaurant chain Nando’s was responsible for the stunt as a promotion.

Bowen Tourism and Business had worked with an advertising agency to organise the removal and hiding of the mango during the night. 

The stunt moved to Melbourne where Nando’s released a 6-metre replica in Federation Square with the launch of their Mango and Lime Product. 

That ‘Little Mango’ is now located at Bowen’s Front Beach.

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Volunteers Margaret Hurst and Marie Bailey with Martin from Gwada Murals at the Little Mango at Bowen’s Front Beach.

Photos supplied

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This year marks the 111th year of the annual Show Whitsunday.

Starting in 1912, the show has always been a cornerstone of local life, a time when the community gather and celebrate the lifestyle we love here in the Whitsundays.

With horse shows, cattle grading, garden produce competition, two-days of wood cutting, a poultry pavilion, a local sugar cane exhibit and many more, the rural life of our region is on display for all to see.

Children can cuddle a chicken or play with a baby goat at the friendly petting zoo, they can be amazed at the strength of the competitors at the wood-chop and watch as the horses race around the equestrian ring.

For the thrill seekers, there are classic show ground rides for those seeking that rush of adrenaline.

Zoom around on the bumper cars, spin your heart out on the zipper, or scream out loud of the ‘Surge’.

Explore the fun house, get an aerial view of the bright lights from the Ferris Wheel and explore the sideshow alley.

Catch a yellow duck, throw a ball at clown, fire a shot at a target and see what prize you could bring home with you.

With so much action, you’ll never want to go home!

Tickets are available now to purchase, buy the two day pass and save!

What: Show Whitsunday
When: Friday 21 June & Saturday 22 June
Where: Proserpine Showgrounds
Tickets: Available via Show Whitsunday Facebook and Website

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The Whitsundays Writers Festival is thrilled to announce the featured local authors of this year’s pen-dropping event which is happening this September.

Festival President, Karen Jacobsen says “We are excited to be showcasing the creative talent and diversity of the region’s writers and there are many ways local authors can get involved.”

Featuring among the esteemed line up of local authors is Rachel Armstrong, North Queensland award winning contemporary romantic fiction author, who loves writing about rural small towns, stirring up the suspense with terrifying villains, and placing paranormal shifters in an everyday world.

Joining Rachel is Bec Russell, a long-term Whitsundays local. Having lived in the area for most of her life she feels blessed to have grown up in a beautiful, small, yet vibrant community. A holistic health coach and yoga teacher, Bec loves exploring her creativity.

Adding to this list of engaging local authors is A.L. Tippett. Having written her first novel when she was twelve, this passionate writer almost abandoned her dreams after deciding that being an author wasn’t a “real” job and not worth pursuing. Thankfully, she rediscovered her passion for storytelling and has published The MINATH Chronicles.

Meanwhile, Jo Nightingale is local author and Airlie Beach local. In 2013 she was travelling through India when she felt compelled to record her journey. Unbelievable events were taking place that needed to be shared and her first book — Finding the Quietness Within — was born. This began her trilogy following her journeys around the world with the second book Finding the Stillness Within.

“We can’t wait for Festival attendees to meet our local authors by discovering their stories through our bookshop and taking time to meet them and learn more about their work and writing journeys,” said Karen.

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A.L. Tippett almost gave up on her dreams of becoming an author but has now published the MINATH Chronicles. Photo supplied

Rachel Armstrong is a North Queensland award winning contemporary romantic fiction author. Photo supplied

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Zonta Clubs from all over North Regional Queensland gathered in the Whitsundays in May for a weekend of friendship, fun and activity.

The weekend started with welcome drinks which were held at the Coral Sea Resort on Friday 17 May.

This was followed by the Area 5 meeting which was conducted in Coral Sea Resort’s function room on Saturday.

The meeting began with an opening by the Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor, Ry Collins.

During the day, District Governor, Lyn Agnew gave several presentations on various topics including, ‘Achieving More in 2024’, ‘Zonta Australia Caucus’, and ‘Zonta Convention Brisbane 2024’.

Other Zonta presentations were given by Sue Wicks from Mount Isa.

Sue formed a group discussion about ‘The Zonta Spirit’.

Jenni Ziesemer, the Zonta Foundation Ambassador, spoke about the various options for donations.

In addition, each Club gave a presentation about the work they had done over the year and plans for the future.

44 members were able to attend on the day, including District 22 Governor Lyn Agnew, one guest and three guest speakers.

Following the meeting, a casual dinner was held at Paradiso Restaurant in Airlie Beach.

The next Zonta meeting will be on June 13 at 5.30pm, if interested call 0418 787 300.

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Photos supplied

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This week, the Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine celebrates 12 years of serving the Whitsundays community.  
The locally owned and operated Branch opened its doors 5 June 2012 and is one of 322 community banks across Australia.
The Bendigo Community Bank model is unique.
“Our success is based on our profit-with-a-purpose model which sees around 50 per cent of the profits generated by our independently owned and operated Community Bank branch invested back into the community” said Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine Chairman Mark Henry.
The establishment of the Branch was backed by local shareholders who saw the value of the Community Bank model and raised $800,000 locally to establish a branch in the Whitsundays.
This journey started in 2009 where a passionate group of locals formed a Steering Committee to undertake work to assess the feasibility of establishing a community bank and help raise necessary local investment. This group worked tirelessly delivering flyers, newsletters, hosting information stalls at local supermarkets and cafes, canvassing businesses and community groups, holding public meetings, and conducting media interviews to gather support.
In 2011 the Whitsundays Community Enterprises Limited (WCEL) formed and appointed owner-operator of the Branch, with Jeff Law appointed the inaugural Chair, Anton Yuskan Secretary, and Krys Halsey Treasurer.
Today, the WCEL Board is Chaired by Mark Henry (since 2019) along with long-standing Treasurer Krys Halsey and Board members Cait Fleming, Ross Hughes, and Kim Porter.
“We thank our shareholders for backing the Whitsundays community and providing an essential banking service, and all the passionate local Directors past and present for their hard work and dedication,” said Mark.
This year the Branch welcomed Amanda Anderson as its new Branch Manager.
“She is a welcome inclusion for our Branch team – joining Chantelle, Danica, Kristy, Kareen, and Natasha – and we look forward to their contribution in 2024 and beyond,” said Mark.
Over the past eight years Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine has invested just over $201,500 into local schools, social programs, sporting groups, arts and culture events, conservation initiatives, and community prizes.

Most weekends Whitsunday locals will also see the Branch’s fully equipped Community Trailer and BBQ out and about at sporting and community events.
Applications for sponsorship and the Community Trailer are now open. Email the Branch’s Board Secretariat on secretary@whitsundaycel.com.au for more information.

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Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine’s Board: Ross Hughes, Mark Henry, Cait Fleming and Krys Halsey. Photo supplied

Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine’s dedicated team: Kirsty, Kareen, Amanda and Danica. Photo supplied

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The Freight Distribution Centre at Whitsunday Coast Airport offers a streamlined one-stop-shop for all types of freight, simplifying the shipping process from start to finish. Notably, pet owners can now transport their pets directly from the Whitsundays, avoiding trips to Mackay or Townsville, thanks to the centre's full-service capabilities. Whether it's perishable goods, general cargo, or precious pets, the Freight Distribution Centre at Whitsunday Coast Airport makes shipping and receiving more accessible and efficient. For more information visit www.whitsundaycoastfreight.com.au

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I have been in Brisbane since Wednesday for multiple meetings with Queensland Government Minsters to advocate for funding and turn a spotlight on priority issues for the Whitsunday region.
 
It is my belief that the relationship between local, state, and federal governments should be a partnership built on mutual support and shared goals rather than always criticising a lack of funding.
 
I have had high-level meetings with multiple Ministers over the past two days and some of the issues discussed include confirmed funding for Hamilton Plains flood proofing and Shute Harbour boat ramp; advocacy for the Skyway project and other major projects; infrastructure funding to support the fast growing Whitsunday Coast Airport; infrastructure planning support for the Bowen Pipeline and Water project; lack of affordable social housing in the Whitsunday region; and increased funding for Yellow Crazy Ants and feral pigs and dogs control.
 
One of the most critical areas where state and federal funding is indispensable is in infrastructure development with regards to water, waste, and sewage.
 
These projects are often costly and beyond the financial capacity of local councils alone so by working together with all tiers of government we can continue to improve the lives of our residents and build a brighter future for all.
 
Addressing environmental challenges requires significant resources so state and federal funding supports local initiatives aimed at reducing carbon emissions, protecting natural habitats, and promoting sustainable practices.
 
For instance, grants for renewable energy projects or conservation programs enable Council to implement green policies that might otherwise be financially unfeasible.
 
Asset management remains a key focus for Council because by looking after our assets, we are looking after our community and ensuring that Council can continue to deliver the services for future generations.
 
However, the ability for Council to deliver these responsibilities effectively depends significantly on the financial support they receive from both the state and federal governments.
 
Investments from state and federal governments also help stimulate our local economy by funding projects that create jobs and attract businesses.
 
An example are regional development grants that can be leveraged to improve local amenities, making our communities more attractive places to live and work.
 
This, in turn, leads to increased investment, tourism, and economic opportunities for our residents.
 
The funding provided by state and federal governments is not just about direct financial assistance; it is about ensuring that diverse regional councils like the Whitsundays have the resources needed to build vibrant, resilient, and sustainable communities.
 
It is my intention to make these visits to Parliament House in Brisbane, and to Canberra, regularly to ensure the Whitsunday region is always front of mind for the Queensland Government with regards to funding and partnership opportunities.

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Tourism Whitsundays headed to Melbourne last week, making a splash at the Australian Tourism Exchange (ATE), which is Tourism Australia’s largest annual trade event.

ATE brings together all Australian tourism businesses with global distribution partners for business appointments and key networking events.

Industry Development and Trade Manager, Cait Fleming, and Marketing Manager, Laura Knipe had a whirlwind week, securing over 100 meetings with international travel partners.

From tour wholesalers and airline representatives to travel agents, they showcased the Whitsundays' experiences and beauty of the region to key partners.

The two were joined by thirteen local operators who participated in presentations, industry briefings, and networking events and allowed operators to connect directly with the travel industry.

Public Relations and Social Media Executive, Rosanagh Gallivan also played a key role at the International Media Marketplace, forging connections with influential travel journalists.

By promoting unique Whitsundays stories and product offerings, Rosanagh aimed to secure positive media coverage and shine a spotlight on our region. 
 Contributed with thanks to Cait Fleming, Industry Development and Trade Manager, Tourism Whitsundays.

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Tourism Whitsunday, Industry Development and Trade Manager Cait Fleming, Public Relations and Social Media Executive Rosanagh Gallivan, and Marketing Manager Laura Knipe, Photo supplied.

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Would you love more media coverage for your business?

Don’t know where to start, or want to try something different?

Getting quality media coverage is a vital part of building your business brand and sales. But many businesses of all sizes often don’t know how to get noticed by the media or think they don’t have a newsworthy story to tell.

Plus, journalists are constantly trying to find interesting people to write about and talk to – your business could be one of them!

Mark your calendars for 7:30am-9:00am Thursday 13 June at Whitsunday Green Golf Club on ‘Getting Free Media for Your Business’.

Hosted by the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry, regional media outlets and specialists will answer your questions on how to get free publicity for your business, top tips for maximising your media exposure, and how to respond to media enquiries. 

Our expert line-up includes:

   • Rachael Smith, Editor in Chief of Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper.
   • Deb Friend, Editor of Whitsunday News.
   • Paul O’Connor, General Manager of Star 101.9, 4MK and Kix MACKAY.
   • Tegan Philpott, former Chief of Staff for ABC Tropical North and current Stakeholder and Sponsorship Manager for CQ Rescue.

Start your day with like-minded local business owners and Chamber Board members and team, who will provide an update on Chamber activities and hear your views on current business priorities.

This event is open to everyone.

When: 7:30am-9:00am Thursday 13 June
Where:  Whitsunday Green Golf Club 
Register: Free tickets for Chamber members; discounted tickets ($18.25) for members of Tourism Whitsundays, Bowen Chamber of Commerce, and Bowen Gumlu Growers Association; and non-members $25. Register today. Visit the Chamber website or email admin@whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au

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Originally from New Zealand, San Maere and his family emigrated to Australia when he was six years old.

It wasn’t until San moved to Airlie Beach in 1993, however, that his love for food and passion for cooking was ignited.

In the early 90’s, San joined some of his friends and they all began their cooking journey together on Hamilton Island.

Hamilton Island was in a very progressive stage at that time and San was lucky enough to work alongside some prestigious Master Chefs who inspired him and taught him work ethics that keep him humble to this day.

“When I started my culinary journey on Hamilton Island, I spent many years over there so that kept me grounded during those infant years of cooking and from that I was able to scale then be sent across this country,” said San.

“Rubbing shoulders with some great chefs, gave me the confidence to grow and then travel south.

San travelled through Melbourne and Adelaide before arriving in Perth.

It was two years ago when San returned to Airlie Beach, bringing with him all the skills and experience he developed from travelling the country and working at some incredible restaurants.

Gaining experience in Australia’s biggest hotel chains, QANTAS airline catering, and in the mining industry, San has now joined the team at epochal Hotels - Australia’s newest hotel brand - with iconic venues along the east coast of Australia from Freshwater to Manly, Merewether, McMahon’s Point and the Whitsundays with Colonial Palms Motor Inn and their new Hook Island Resort Development, opening soon.

Now, Head Chef at Colonial Palms, San has been in this position since February and loves sharing his insight and experience in the kitchen.

The Palms restaurant kitchen has three chefs, and with a combined 107 years of experience the food is immaculate, especially with San’s new menu which has been created with local produce in mind.

“The menu itself is going to reflect some great dishes that have been fine-tuned,” said San.

“It’s the history of meals, we are just recreating the same thing over and over and it's keeping within the cultural lifestyle of Airlie Beach.

“Cooking is always refreshing ideas that have worked in the past, it's taking traditional techniques and bringing them into 2024, 2025, springing them into this new era.”

With a diverse team of different nationalities, San said they are able to grow as a team and he is continuing to learn, despite having all this experience.

“You’re always a student of the industry, you’ve got to absorb, got to be able to change when the time has changed,” San added.

“Cooking also bridges the gap, it brings families to the table, it brings people to connect - you have meaningful relationships and food expands people, it changes the behaviour of people, that's what food does.”

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San Maere, Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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A sultry blend of beans that speaks to the romance of a menage a trois, the Date Night coffee now being served at Whisper Gin Bar and Restaurant is made by combining three different beans in a match made in heaven.

The strong, dominant Columbian bean is nestled within the softer Papua New Guinea notes and enhanced with the sweetness of an Ethiopian bean.

This magical mix is created by passionate coffee-roaster Dan Shaw who began his journey as a hobby-roaster in Western Australia 15 years ago.

“I am one of those lucky people that have been fortunate enough to turn a hobby into a business and I have so much gratitude to the community and suppliers for supporting us.”

For the past five years Dan has been operating Primal Coffee café and espresso bar in Mackay along with a Barista Training Academy.

He also distributes his coffee to 52 outlets up and down the coast and just last week, had his biggest ever roasting week, producing an impressive 590 kilograms of coffee.

The Date Night Coffee is an award-winning combination, having recently received a bronze award in one of the biggest roasting competitions in Australasia.

You can get this special brew at Whisper Gin Bar and Restaurant.

What do you love most about coffee?
With great coffee, comes great conversation

What’s your favourite coffee to make?
The Bee Sting – a single espresso poured on a bed of honey

What’s your favourite coffee to drink?
Cappuccino on oat with our Soul Mate blend

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Master-roatser Dan Shaw supplies Primal Coffee to Whisper Gin Bar and Restaurant

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Queensland Day at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre was a huge success last Sunday 2 June.

Mayor Ry Collins was in attendance and conducted a Welcome Speech, followed by live music performances by Luella and Shayne and Skyhigh Juggling.

Food stalls and activities kept everyone busy.

Everyone was in high spirit and enjoyed the wonderful Whitsunday winter weather.

The day was celebrated the Whitsunday way.

A celebration of Queensland’s birthday; it marks its official separation from New South Wales as an independent colony in 1859.

It is an important celebration of our state’s culture, heritage and an opportunity to reflect on what Queensland means to you.

To get a copy of one of these photos head to – mackayandwhitsundaylife.com

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Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Raphaelle Faust
Ses Howard, Ava Howard
Oleina, Amanda and Uthyr
Mahlia, Melissa, Lee and Lidiia
Kendall and Nicole
Isaiah, Nataliya and Zemes
Abigail, Isabelle and Reuben

Melanie Collins and Mayor Ry Collins
Skyhigh Juggling – Dan and Roo
Harison, Nathan, Izzy, Charlie and Lisa
Layla
Jo Green, James Borg and Tracy Staniland
Harry, Maggie-Laurie, Daniel and Lachlan
Craig and Kayla
Jazz and Priscilla
Kirby Clarke and Jordan Hinton

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Hundreds of people flowed through the doors of the inaugural Pre-loved and Vintage Clothing Markets which were held in the large function room at Kipara Rainforest Retreat on Sunday.

Dozens of stalls hosted by enthusiastic fashionistas created an Aladdin’s cave of delights where attendees could explore the racks of colourful clothing and discover hidden gems to add to their own collection.

Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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