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.

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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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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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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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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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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-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.

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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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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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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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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.

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Whitsunday Island landscape. Photo credit: Ruth Puddefoot.

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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

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

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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.”

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

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There’s no shortage of community spirit in Proserpine, and one local is proving just how powerful kindness can be.

The Proserpine Community Centre expressed a big thank you to Steve, known to many as LairdndLady Thompson, for his ongoing dedication to helping out wherever he can.

Steve has long been one of the centre’s most reliable and supportive community members, always quick to offer his help in maintaining the space for all who use it.

He was spotted hard at work by the Proserpine Community Centre staff, cleaning the footpaths to ensure that visitors can walk safely without the risk of slipping.

What makes Steve’s contributions so special is not just his willingness to offer help, but his reliability. When he says he will lend a hand, he always follows through, and it hasn’t gone unnoticed.

Steve’s actions are a shining reminder of the power of locals helping locals, and the strength that comes from people working together. His selfless efforts have made a real difference, and we thank him for making Proserpine just that little bit brighter.

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Hi Everyone

I’m thrilled to share that I’ve returned to the Whitsunday Life Newspaper after four months living in Ingham where I helped launch our sister publication, Hinchinbrook Life.

It was a privilege to launch a new newspaper in a region that had been yearning so long for print media, but the Whitsundays kept calling for my return.

Whilst I was up there, myself and the Hinchinbrook Shire experienced the worst flooding event in over 50 years. I was located in Forrest Beach, so although I was extremely bored without power and phone reception, I was safe. Ingham, however, was devastated.

It was quite a harrowing experience and very isolating, especially for a newcomer like me, but in many ways it brought the community together. Witnessing and being a part of the North Queensland community spirit and the recovery process ultimately brought us together.

During the immediate aftermath I joined the response team, door-knocking to check on residents in my neighbourhood and i was even able to help alert rescurers to an elederly person who was alone and uncontactable.

It was a surreal experience, but incredibly valuable in many ways. I was the only print media journalist in the region which was a big responsibility but also an honour and a unique opportunity to give a voice to stories that might have otherwise gone untold.

Now that I’ve returned to the Whitsundays, I’m feeling re-energised and excited to once again be sharing the stories of this community.

There’s something truly special about reporting in this beautiful space, and I’m grateful to be back doing what I love in a region I care so deeply about.

It’s good to be back.

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By Ruth Puddefoot

Guests aboard the Coral Discoverer on a recent Citizen Science expedition on the Great Barrier Reef had the unforgettable experience of naming a brand-new manta ray. The playful juvenile male was first seen breaching the surface and showing off his curious nature at Yamacutta Reef in the stunning Whitsundays, and was aptly named Discover-ray.

Adding to the magic of the voyage was Project Manta researcher and guest lecturer Hannah Moloney, who guided guests in capturing ID shots of the majestic rays and shared fascinating insights into the research behind manta ray conservation.

With manta ray season approaching as winter sets in, several rays have already made appearances, including some familiar fins. Among the re-sightings was 'Coral Guardian', spotted cruising around the islands. This local legend was first recorded in June 2020, reappeared in July 2022, and has now been seen again in March 2025. Another old friend, Marg, made a comeback too. She was first seen at Yongala in November 2015 and has now been spotted once again 9 years later.

Project Manta Whitsundays plays a vital role in tracking and protecting these gentle giants. Their work focuses on monitoring populations through satellite tagging and photographic identification, which helps researchers track movement patterns and better understand how manta rays interact with their marine environment. They also work to protect important habitats such as feeding and cleaning stations by collaborating with local stakeholders and advocating for stronger marine conservation policies.

A key part of Project Manta Whitsundays mission is public education, using community outreach, school programs and eco-tourism experiences to inspire greater awareness and appreciation for manta rays. All of this is backed by robust scientific research that explores the biology, behaviour and ecology of manta rays, providing the foundation for effective conservation strategies.

You can stay updated on manta sightings, research highlights and reef adventures by following @projectmantawhitsundays on Instagram.

Whether you're a seasoned snorkeler or a first-time reef explorer, there’s something truly magical about meeting a manta ray. And who knows – the next one might be named by you.

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Whitsundays Mantas return! Photo source: @projectmanta_whitsundays.

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The 2025 flag laying ceremony held a particularly moving moment this year, as the service of an unmarked soldier was finally recognised.

More than 400 flags were placed at the Proserpine Cemetery during the annual tribute, with a special cross erected at the previously unmarked grave of Andrew William Anderson. Until now, his resting place bore no headstone, no sign of his service.

Lyn Burke, founder of the flag laying tradition, emphasised the importance of remembering every service man and woman, saying it’s vital to ensure no one is forgotten.

400 Flags Laid And Soldier Found

Old Proserpine Cemetery is full of unmarked graves, and Lyn Burke and Lloyd Fox are still on a mission to find the names of all ex-serving military personnel whose bodies are located in these graves today.

Andrew William Anderson was a Bowen man that enlisted into the service at age 40.

On the voyage to England, Anderson contracted mumps, then spent time in training battalions, battling further illness, including influenza and scabies.

A fractured thigh bone ultimately ended his military hopes, and he was sent back to Australia without ever reaching the front lines.

Despite never seeing combat, Anderson’s willingness to serve is now being acknowledged.

During the 2025 flag laying ceremony, a cross was placed on his previously unmarked grave, finally giving recognition to a soldier whose sacrifice had long gone unnoticed.

Years ago, when Lyn and Lloyd started their flag laying tradition it was just the two of them, and the pair recalled how it had taken them hours to lay all the flags. Now the community get behind the annual event and this year the 122 Army Cadet Unit Proserpine Detachment attended for the first time.

Lieutenant Chris Saunders from 122 Army Cadet Unit Proserpine Detachment said it was a huge honour to attend and assist in the flag laying ceremony, and the assembly of the cross for Andrew William Anderson.

“It's surprising, even to myself and the major of Mackay that 400 flags are being laid today,” he added.

“That's an awful big representation for a town the size of Proserpine, to have 400 ex serving members being honoured with flags today.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity, and we'll be here again next year.”

Lyn said the flag laying is all about letting the community know that these service men and women are here, and just how many there are in the region.

“This to honour these men and women and also let our community know that they are here,” said Lyn.

“Most people don't realise how many servicemen we have in this area, or what they went through, or what they did for us.

“We do it so anyone can come and have a look and see all of these people.

“Not everyone's got a symbol, this one here is the greatest example. There is nothing that tells you that this person here was in the military.

“Nothing says that for you, but having a flag next to him, you can see that person was.”

The ceremony is always the weekend before ANZAC Day, and the flags are kept up for two weeks afterwards so people can see and acknowledge all of those in the Old and New Proserpine Cemetery that served for this country.

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122 Army Cadet Unit Proserpine Detachment with the now recognised soldiers grave. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

Young people from Proserpine State High School and Whitsunday Swimming Club were at the flag laying

Laying the flags

122 Army Cadet Unit Proserpine Detachment Cadets hammering in the cross for Andrew William Anderson

Photo credit Daniel Heggie

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