Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
OPINION PIECE from the office of Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox There is no question that immigration into Australia is out of control. The government’s numbers are too high, and standards are too low. A sustainable migration program must consider our capacity to provide housing, healthcare, infrastructure and the essential services everyone relies on, and Australians must come first. But Labor’s decision to target Working Holiday Makers Visa holders is not the answer. These people filling vital gaps in our workforce are not the cause of Australia’s housing crisis. In many cases, they are living in accommodation provided by the very businesses that employ them. The National Farmers’ Federation has made the point that Working Holiday Makers generally stay in hostels, caravan parks or purpose-built on-farm accommodation. Resorts usually have on-site staff quarters. They are not the source of Australia’s housing shortage. So why is Labor making it harder for them to come here, when these workers fill genuine jobs that regional Australia holds? Working Holiday Makers fill approximately one in seven farm jobs nationally and are particularly important during peak agricultural periods, which for Dawson, it is right now! Farmers rely on these workers to plant, pick, pack and harvest the produce that ends up on Australian supermarket shelves. Having run one of Australia’s largest tomato farms, at times Working Holiday Makers made up more than 50 per cent of my workforce. Without them, much of our crop simply would not have been picked in time and rotted in the paddock. Some may say, why not employ the Australians who don’t have a job and are on “the dole”? Can I say, this does not work. Most farmers will employ Aussies over travelling backpackers, but many either don’t want to do the work or don’t turn up after the first day. Who picks the fruit or veggies then? Farmers are already warning that visa delays are leaving them without workers. The NFF says approvals that once took days are now facing processing times of up to three months, and this time frame can be the difference between harvesting a crop or losing it. That should concern every Australian already feeling the pressure at the supermarket checkout. The same problem is playing out in tourism. Across Dawson, Working Holiday Makers are an important part of the workforce supporting tourism and hospitality, particularly in the Whitsundays. They help fill shifts, work in hotels and restaurants, support tour operators and keep businesses running through their busiest periods. They also contribute to the local economy. They spend money on food, fuel, attractions and tours, supporting the small businesses that depend on a strong visitor economy. That is why tourism and business leaders across North Queensland are raising the alarm. They understand what happens when a regional business cannot get enough staff: opening hours are reduced, and services are cut, creating a downward spiral. We do need to reduce migration to sustainable levels. We need stronger integrity measures, and we need to crack down on rorts. But responsible migration policy means understanding which parts of the system are creating pressure and which parts are helping Australia function. Working Holiday Makers are not the problem. They are part of the workforce solution for regional. Australia. People have had a gutful of watching their standard of living go backwards. Groceries, fuel, housing and everyday expenses are already putting enormous pressure on families. The last thing Australians need is another reckless policy that makes it harder to produce food, harder to run regional businesses and harder for tourism operators to find the workers they need.
Read the full storySomeone sold a house in Sydney last week for $9 million less than they bought it for four or five years ago. The sellers had bought the property in Sydney’s eastern suburbs for $29 million and sold it for $20 million in a sale forced by their bank. I imagine the sellers are a little disappointed by the government’s decisions on negative gearing and capital gains tax and feeling pretty hurt by the increased interest rates. Australia’s interest rates are on the rise and are now sitting at levels not seen since 2011. Increased cost of living is hurting people around the country and interest rates are playing into that. But the impact of interest rates is not felt evenly around the country. The far-higher property prices mean people in the major cities suffer much more than regional areas with the rates increase. That is certainly not to say people in Mackay are unaffected by the cost of living; it’s just that the impact of interest rates increase on a $400,000 mortgage is much less than the impact on a $1m mortgage. There are other Mackay-specific factors that are in play when discussing the current housing market. The big factor is the role of coal in our economy. Most of the coal extracted and exported from our region is coking coal, which is used to make steel. The price of coking coal is around $280 a tonne, which is about 50 per cent up. Good activity in the coal market translates to good news for the Mackay economy, as it is an economic engine that other cities and regions just don’t have. Good activity in Bowen Basin flows throughout the Mackay economy; Paget workshops, transport, suppliers and related businesses all benefit. But so do other, non-mining-related businesses as they benefit from the general confidence and spending that goes on. The strong mining activity also means mines need to keep their staff levels up and that means more people moving to Mackay. Of course, Mackay is much more than a coal mining town but if the coal sector is going well those other areas definitely benefit. It is a confidence boost for Mackay people looking to get into the housing market and those wanting to upgrade or downsize. It also means continuing strong demand from people wanting to rent a property and it will be interesting to see what sort of activity that creates from investors. Investors have walked away from the big-city markets because they can no longer use negative gearing on established properties that do not have a sufficient yield to be positively geared. Negative gearing has never been a big thing in Mackay because our prices are lower and rental returns continue to be strong so many investors have a positively geared property. Around the country everyone is nervous about the state of play and the probability of more interest rate rises. But strong coal prices and an economy that is performing well mean Mackay might just be presenting an opportunity for buyers and sellers that doesn’t exist in other parts. I remember when national confidence was flying high and Mackay prices were going up significantly that many buyers were saying “I wish we had bought a while ago when the market wasn’t so hot”. I’m not armed with a crystal ball so I’m not here to tell you what is going to happen but I suspect there is a very good buying window right now for those looking for an opportunity.
Read the full story
A local Mackay and Sarina based model has created a dress out of newspapers, including Mackay Life, for her upcoming pageant, representing her region and hometown on the runway as she vies for Miss Diamond International in Brisbane. Zoe Place will be competing this weekend in the three-day event, beginning this Friday 2nd October and ending on Sunday 4th October. The young model spent around a month creating her eco-fashion outfit, using old newspapers as the main material and transforming them into a bodice, skirt and flowers. Red elements were also incorporated into the design to give the dress a bold and glamorous pageant feel. Zoe said, “The entire concept was really about taking something that would normally be thrown away and turning it into something beautiful and meaningful.” Her eco-fashion creation will form part of a busy weekend in Brisbane, with the Miss Diamond International event including photo shoots, interviews, an eco-fashion show and the final pageant. Zoe has been preparing for the event by practising her strut and walking, preparing for interviews and getting comfortable in the different outfits she will wear throughout the weekend. Alongside her love of modelling, pageantry has also provided Zoe with a platform to raise awareness about causes close to her heart, including mental health, while fundraising for Beyond Blue. “Pageantry has given me more of a platform to combine my love for modelling with something that is really important to me.” “When I first started, I was more nervous about putting myself out there and worried about what others would think about me – but I’ve changed a lot through my journey in pageantry.” “Pageantry has also taught me that it’s not about how you look on stage. It’s about the person you are when you step off it.” “Every woman has their own unique journey and that journey is something we should all be really proud of.” “To me, it represents confidence, empowerment, kindness, and using your voice to make a difference.” Zoe said she was looking forward to meeting the other contestants, making new connections and creating memories. “I’m definitely looking forward to meeting all the new contestants and making new connections and creating memories that I will carry with me for a lifetime.” While Zoe hopes to eventually move to the city, her sights are set even further afield, with a dream of one day walking in New York Fashion Week. Mackay and Sarina local Zoe Place has created an eco-fashion dress from recycled newspapers, including Mackay Life, ahead of her Miss Diamond International pageant in Brisbane. Photos supplied
Read the full story
Trends, reels and the endless cycle of always wanting more has quietly bombarded the minds of countless social media users of all ages, but one former Mackay local has made it her mission to help others understand the effects of social media and find practical ways to break free from online addiction. Alexis Zahner is in Mackay over the next week to teach upcoming generations about social media and the effects it can have on the mind, particularly on identity, self-discovery, as well as the marketing strategies that get viewers hooked and influence their decisions. It is something Alexis knows first-hand can be a useful tool, but also a great disruption to authenticity and the world as we see and experience it. Alexis will hold a free meet and greet and book launch today, Friday 2nd October, at 5.30pm at the Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club, where she will give a talk and answer questions relating to her debut book, Real: Reconnecting to Yourself in a World of Likes and Lies. A former Mackay girl, Alexis spent the past 15 years working across business psychology, marketing and media, with her interest in social media influence beginning during her university studies at James Cook University in Townsville. Her own experience as a social media user, travel blogger and influencer eventually led her to question how much of her identity, decisions and values were being shaped by what she saw online. “The tipping point came for me about 3 years ago when I had this feeling that I couldn't separate influence from my own personal decision making,” she said. “I couldn't separate my own likes, dislikes, values, relationships from what I was being exposed to and being influenced by online.” “I found that I needed to take some time away from social media to recalibrate what was important to me and sort of reconnect and come back to myself.” Alexis said she understood the feeling of questioning who you are outside of social media. “I know what it feels like to live a life under the influence of social media and have that existential crisis of thinking to yourself, who am I? What do I like? What's the kind of life I want to live? and struggling to separate myself from influence.” Alexis is particularly passionate about reaching teenagers, who she says are in an important stage of identity development, and will share this message with Mackay high school students during her upcoming school talks. “Teenagers are really easily influenced by social media. So it's a really important age where we start educating them – not just on the mental health repercussions of things like social media and how it shortens their attention span, but how it actually influences who they become.” “If you're asking yourself these questions, it's not your fault. Social media is actually geared to create this impact on you.” Alexis encourages people of all ages to “start expanding beyond what you see on the platform.” “Dare to indulge in the things that you've always been curious about or things you used to love,” she said. “Don't be afraid to put the phone down to let yourself be curious and have fun.” What: Alexis Zahner's 'Real' Book launch When: 5.30pm Friday 2nd October 2026 Where: Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club Former Mackay local and author Alexis Zahner is returning home to share her experiences with social media and her debut book, Real. Photo supplied
Read the full story
Photo source: Shutterstock
On Tuesday 18th August Mackay marked six decades since the Battle of Long Tan, with Vietnam veterans, community members and respected local representatives gathering at Jubilee Park to honour those who served and sacrificed during the Vietnam War.
The Vietnam Veterans Day ceremony featured a parade, the Australian and New Zealand national anthems, wreath-laying and a poppy tribute, providing an opportunity to reflect on the service and sacrifice of those who served.
The ceremony also placed a focus on carrying the legacy of military service into the future, with a naval cadet commanding officer delivering the guest address and younger members of the Australian Defence Force encouraged to take part.
The gathering provided a poignant reminder of the experiences carried by Vietnam veterans and the importance of ensuring their service and sacrifice continue to be remembered by future generations.
Lest we forget
Jetstar’s suspension of Brisbane–Mackay services from October 24th will change travel options for regional locals, prompting concern over affordability and connectivity. Photo source: Shutterstock
By Hannah McNamara
Mackay travellers have been left facing changes to their flight options after Jetstar announced it would suspend its Brisbane–Mackay services from October 24th.
The decision has prompted concern among local travellers, with some community members saying the low-cost service had provided an important alternative when travelling between Mackay and Brisbane.
One local resident claimed customers with existing bookings after October 23rd had received emails advising their flights would either be transferred to Qantas or refunded. These arrangements may vary depending on individual bookings, and travellers have been encouraged to check directly with their airline.
Another community member, who said they travelled through Mackay Airport monthly, described the change as a potential financial burden.
“As someone who flies here monthly it’s going to be a huge impact on my purse…”
“The [Jetstar] flight is always full. FIFO workers are always a part of the customers flying too…”
A spokesperson from Mackay Airport said, “We are disappointed Jetstar has decided to suspend its Brisbane–Mackay services from 24th October. We recognise that any reduction in air services can be frustrating and disruptive for passengers.”
The airport said broader aviation pressures were also contributing to increased operating costs.
“Airlines make their own commercial decisions about where and how they operate their networks, based on a range of factors. Ongoing global challenges, including significant fuel-price pressures on airlines, have contributed to higher operating costs and disruption across Australia’s aviation network.”
“Mackay Airport remains committed to supporting strong and sustainable air connectivity for our region and we continue to work constructively with our airline partners to support services for the community.”
In a statement on social media, Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP said Jetstar’s decision to suspend its Brisbane–Mackay route would affect regional travellers, with reliable air connections crucially important for businesses, medical appointments, tourism and families.
Mr Willcox said, “I can confirm that Jetstar Australia has decided to suspend its Brisbane-Mackay route, as rising operating costs mean the service is no longer commercially viable.”
He said he was taking action to discuss the decision with key stakeholders and push for the flights to return.
“I am taking immediate action. I am in the process of arranging a meeting with the CEO of QantasLink in Canberra next week to discuss the impact this decision will have on our region. I can assure everyone I will be pushing to have these flights reinstated.”
Mr Willcox also raised concerns about the impact on travellers facing higher costs.
“When the cost of everything keeps going up, it is often the low-cost options that hurt the most.”
“Our region cannot be left stranded by sudden service reductions.”
Photo for illustrative purpose. Photo source: Shutterstock
Mackay’s footy fans are being encouraged to kit up in their favourite team colours next month and help children and families facing cancer as part of the Fight Cancer Foundation’s Footy Colours Day.
A national fundraising initiative running throughout September, Footy Colours Day stands as an opportunity for thousands of Australians to come together to show their support for kids with cancer, and getting involved couldn’t be easier.
Schools, workplaces, sporting clubs, families and groups can choose a date, register for free via www.footycoloursday.com.au and create their own footy-themed fundraiser! It could be a morning tea, BBQ, pizza night, sausage sizzle or a few footy games; the only requirement is wearing your colours with pride and raising funds for the cause.
In 2025, 1,362 Footy Colours Day events helped raise almost $548,000 to support children and families affected by cancer, with all funds raised used to support vital cancer research and help keep parents, siblings and children together during an incredibly difficult time through providing accommodation for families who must travel for treatment.
So, whether you're backing the Cowboys, Broncos, Storm or something entirely different, get your team together and show your colours for kids with cancer!
Photos supplied
Mackay’s cycling community turned out in force for the 2026 BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival, with rider numbers climbing 20 per cent on last year and the 25km Queensland Country Health Fund Dash reaching a complete sell-out.
Starting at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens, the festival brought riders of all ages and abilities together for a weekend that combined cycling, family fun and plenty of local spirit.
A new community partnership model also put 13 local groups at the heart of the action, with volunteers helping marshal the course, cheer on riders and support activities throughout the festival.
With strong participation, local partnerships and plenty of colour on the course, the 2026 ride proved Mackay was more than ready to get on its bike!
The 2026 BMA River 2 reef Ride Festival rolled through Mackay this weekend, with riders turning out in force to celebrate the region’s biggest community cycling event, delivering an atmosphere organisers are calling the best in the festival’s history.
Participation numbers were up 20% on last year, with the 25km Queensland Country Health Fund Dash selling out completely as riders of all ages and abilities lined up at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens for a weekend of colour, community and celebration.
This year’s festival was powered by the event’s 13 local community group partners, whose members brought extra energy to the course, cheering, marshalling and fuelling riders from start to finish. New initiatives added even more vibrancy to the weekend including a free sausage sizzle for young riders at the Golding Kids colour Ride courtesy of Mackay City Central Scout Group, a finish line pit stop hosted by Pioneer Swimming Club and their swim families cheering riders as they crossed the finish at the BMA River 2 Reef Ride.
Nikki Giles, BMA River 2 Reef Ride Event Director, said the festival’s new community partnership model was born from a desire to make it easier for local groups to access funding.
“This initiative came from a genuine desire to break down the barriers so many of our local groups face when fundraising or applying for grant monies,” Nikki said.
“We wanted to make it really easy for the people working tirelessly behind the scenes in our local groups to access guaranteed funding, without the added human resource load. In return for their volunteer role during the festival we guaranteed each of our community partners proceeds straight to their organisation’s bank account, plus the opportunity to earn $5 for every registration and jersey purchase where an entrant selected them from the dropdown menu in the registration portal.”
“It’s a genuine win-win. Our riders get a really memorable BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival experience and our community groups receive funds to put toward their 2026 initiatives,” Nikki said.
She added that the energy and community spirit on display over the weekend confirmed the new model had struck a chord with Mackay.
“The energy and community spirit out on course this year was alive and well from the moment our first riders rolled out,” Nikki said.
“Our riders were cheered from start to finish, our 13 community group partners and their members brought extra vibes to every corner of the course, and it truly felt like the whole of Mackay had come out to be part of something special. The support for this year’s ride has been phenomenal and shows just how much this event means to our region.”
Kate Sommerville, General Manager of BHP Mitsubishi Alliance’s (BMA) Hay Point Coal Terminal, said BMA was proud to see the event’s community-first model deliver such a strong result in its first year.
“It has been fantastic to see this event go from strength to strength, and this year was truly a community event from start to finish,” Kate said.
“BMA is incredibly proud to support a festival that puts community wellbeing and local partnerships at its hear, and to see our local groups, volunteers and riders come together in these numbers is something truly special for the Mackay region.”
Kate said organisers were incredibly grateful to everyone who helped bring the 2026 festival to life.
“We are so grateful to all of our event sponsors, volunteers and community groups for supporting an event that supports the Mackay region,” Nikki said.
“This festival simply would not be possible without them, and we cannot wait to do it all again next year.”
The community is invited to lend support to help John return home. Photo supplied
A 42-night holiday in Bali has become an unforeseeable ordeal for 72-year-old Cannonvale local John Lyle, who suddenly lost the ability to walk and is now fighting to recover and return home.
John and his partner Kate were travelling through the Gili Islands in May when a series of falls was followed by rapidly worsening numbness and mobility loss.
After their travel insurance claim was rejected on the grounds that John’s condition was pre-existing – a decision Kate strongly disputes – the couple are seeking support, searching for a way to bring a lightweight wheelchair to Bali to help John on his recovery.
Proserpine RSL President Dave Clifford and Treasurer Brian Dunlop present Peter Jameljanenko with his certificate recognising 30 years of service to the Proserpine RSL. Photo supplied
Proserpine RSL member Peter Jameljanenko has been recognised for 30 years of dedicated service to the organisation.
Peter was presented with a certificate marking the milestone by Proserpine RSL President Dave Clifford and Treasurer Brian Dunlop.
Peter’s own military service began when he was called up for National Service on September 26th 1972. He completed his basic training in Singleton, New South Wales, before being based at Enoggera in Queensland. He later went on to participate in Tropical Trials in Innisfail.
Looking back, Peter remembers the experience as a major change in his life, but one he ultimately embraced.
“It was a big change and I enjoyed it,” Peter said.
His commitment was put to the test only months after he entered the National Service, when the Whitlam Government abolished the scheme in December 1972 and servicemen were given the choice to leave.
“They were given the option of either staying in or getting out, and I stayed in,” he said.
Peter originally joined the RSL for a chance at fellowship, wanting to be surrounded by the people who understood the commitment and toll being a service member had.
“I joined the RSL to be a part of something and have somebody to talk to, people that recognize what you've been through,” Peter said.
During his 30 years with the Proserpine RSL, Peter has taken on a number of roles, including serving as treasurer, while also becoming a familiar face at the town’s ANZAC Day commemorations. For many years, he has served as marshal and led the annual ANZAC Day march through Proserpine.
“It made me proud,” Peter said.
When asked about the future of the RSL, Peter said he would like to see changes both within the organisation and at a government level to ensure veterans continue to receive the support they need, particularly raising concerns about medical expenses from the DVA being capped at $5,000.
“$5,000 gets you nothing,” Peter said.
For Peter, much of that comes down to ensuring today’s veterans can find the same support and camaraderie that first drew him to the RSL 30 years ago.
“The way it is now, I wouldn't recommend it to anybody,” he said.
“They promise the world and give you nothing.”
Once a marine engineer working hundreds of kilometres offshore, Lukas Vaid is now putting those same problem-solving skills to work helping people across the Whitsundays find their dream home.
Lukas’ move into real estate came during COVID, when opportunities in marine engineering dried up and his wife, already working in real estate, encouraged him to try something new. He joined Taylor's in 2020, working alongside experienced agent Brad Sobott and learning the property market before eventually stepping out on his own.
His engineering background has given Lukas a different way of approaching real estate, bringing the precision, structure and problem-solving skills of his former career into the property world.
“I’m used to working a couple hundred miles offshore for a few weeks at a time and you don’t have room for error,” Lukas said.
“You really need to have a structured approach to everything that you do and have the attention to detail and make sure that everything is done properly rather than just jamming things together.”
Having moved from Germany and Switzerland 14 years ago, Lukas knows what it’s like to search for somewhere to call home, and takes the time to understand what each buyer needs before helping them find the right fit.
“It’s about really finding out what people need for their life,” Lukas said.
“We really value what the underlying reasons are that people are looking at property, so we try to make sure, to the best of our ability, that it really is the right fit.”
The QCWA Collinsville Branch recently celebrated their 100th anniversary! Photo supplied
The QCWA Collinsville Branch has celebrated a remarkable 100 years of friendship, community service and support for local families, marking the milestone with a special birthday celebration.
The branch, which has supported women and the wider Collinsville community for a century, commemorated the occasion with celebrations attended by members, community supporters and special guests.
Among the guests was the Patron of the Queensland Country Women’s Association (QCWA), Governor of Queensland Dr Jeannette Young, who visited the branch alongside Mayor Ry Collins.
Dr Young congratulated the Collinsville branch on reaching the milestone, reflecting on her time as QCWA patron over the past five years.
The celebration also recognised the branch's longstanding contribution to Collinsville, with members continuing the tradition of bringing people together while supporting the community.
Member for Burdekin Dale Last also paid tribute to the branch, describing its commitment to Collinsville as a standout example of community service.
“Well, I might be a bit bias, but I reckon that the Collinsville CWA is the best in the country,” said Mr Last.
“Why am I saying that? Well, you never let that community down, and you’re always there and your hospitality is second to none.
“Happy Birthday on reaching that magnificent millstone of 100 years. What an achievement that’s been many, many years of service to the Collinsville community. We all appreciate it, congratulations again.”
Whitsunday Regional Councillor Michelle Wright also congratulated the branch, highlighting the friendships and service built over its century of operation.
“Congratulations to QCWA Collinsville Branch on a wonderful and incredible 100 year milestone. That’s a century of friendship, a century of service, and a century dedicated looking after your community. It truly is a wonderful achievement, and on behalf of Whitsunday Regional Council, here’s to celebrating your proud history and the wonderful years ahead,” said Councillor Michelle Wright.
The celebrations included plenty of community spirit, with members and guests gathering to mark the occasion alongside food, laughter and festivities with QCWA Collinsville thanking everyone who offered their support and helped celebrate the milestone.
Mayor Ry Collins described the occasion as an incredible achievement for an organisation that has continued to support rural women, families and the Collinsville community across a century.
The milestone marks 100 years of the branch's history, while its continued activity demonstrates the enduring role community organisations such as QCWA play in bringing people together and supporting regional communities.
Mark and Sandra of ABC Distillery. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge
Airlie Beach-based ABC Distillery is celebrating a major win on the national stage after taking home two Gold Awards and a Silver at the 2026 Australian Distilled Spirit Awards in Melbourne.
The local distillery was recognised for all three products it entered in the competition, with its Single Malt Redgum Smoked Whiskey and Whiskey Barrel Aged Rum both awarded Gold. Its Hibiscus Pink Gin also impressed the judges, taking home a Silver Award.
Owner Sandra Argo travelled to the Australian Distilled Spirit Awards at the Melbourne Showgrounds after being encouraged to attend following a call congratulating the distillery on its strong results.
The recognition comes as another exciting milestone for the local business, which produces a range of spirits including gin, vodka, rum and whiskey.
Sandra said the team was thrilled with the results, particularly after entering just three products in the prestigious awards.
The awards add to a growing list of achievements for the distillery and highlight the quality of locally produced spirits coming out of the region. The distillery produces a selection of handcrafted beverages, with the award-winning Redgum Smoked Whiskey and Whiskey Barrel Aged Rum now boasting national recognition.
For those looking to raise a glass to the distillery’s latest achievements, a tasting may be in order!
Story courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum. Long Tan Memorial photo sourced from Bribie Island Vietnam Veterans’ Association Facebook page.
This year, August 18 marks 60 years since the Battle of Long Tan, officially commemorated in Australia as Vietnam Veterans' Day. During the Vietnam War, “523 Australians died, more than 3000 were wounded or injured, over 60 000 served, and many others were traumatised by their service.” (Sir Peter Cosgrove, “The Sunday Mail”, August 13, 2023)
Young men from Proserpine who served in Vietnam were Peter Roberts, Ian Lade, Barry Parnell, Jeffrey Korn, Les Stevenson and Kevin Bluck.
On May 29, 1965, Peter Roberts, a 20-year-old private in 1RAR, sailed to Vietnam on HMAS “Sydney” after just nineteen months in the Army. 1RAR later joined the American 173rd Airborne Brigade. Peter served from May 27, 1965 to June 1, 1966, then returned to Vietnam as a section commander after 18 months in Malaysia as a corporal with 8RAR. Following a mate’s death, he was promoted to sergeant, a responsibility he described as a heavy burden. His second tour ran from November 18, 1969 to November 12, 1970. Peter later founded the Airlie Beach RSL Sub-Branch and has long served Legacy in Proserpine, including as president.
Private Les Stevenson (1st Australian Reinforcement Unit) enlisted on September 29, 1965, rather than wait for a possible call-up. After three months’ training at Kapooka, he was posted to the newly formed 7th Battalion RAR at Puckapunyal. Deployed on February 5, 1967 to 1ARU for special service at Nui Dat, Les returned to Australia after his tour and was discharged on September 28, 1967.
A National Service call-up saw friends, Jeff Korn, Ian Lade and Barry Parnell complete basic training at Singleton. Jeff and Ian were transferred to Townsville’s 6th Battalion – Ian to Alpha Company and Jeff to Delta Company, the same company that fought the Battle of Long Tan three years earlier. Sapper Barry Parnell joined the Royal Australian Engineers in the 1st Field Squadron at a different base. He was the first of the three friends to be deployed and served in Vietnam from December 2,1968 to December 10,1969.
In May 1969, Lance Corporal Jeff Korn and Private Ian Lade were shipped to Vietnam on HMAS “Sydney”, a voyage which made the 6th Battalion the first to leave Townsville since WW2. Being that it was also the 13th trip to South Vietnam with troops for HMAS “Sydney”, rumours abounded aboard the “Sydney” that it would sink on that trip. Thankfully it didn’t. Jeff and Ian both served in Vietnam until April 2, 1970.
As a Delta Company 6RAR soldier, Jeff Korn attended the 1969 Long Tan dedication in Vietnam, where a cross was erected at the battle site. After returning to Australia, he was active in the RSL and helped create the Bribie Island replica of the Long Tan Memorial Cross, now a widely recognised symbol of Australia’s Vietnam War heritage.
On Ian Lade’s return to Proserpine, he served the RSL Sub-Branch as secretary and treasurer for over thirty years, including more than twenty consecutive years as RSL Club president. Through Ian’s perseverance, the Proserpine Historical Museum now features a dedicated Military Room, providing a secure home for an historically significant display.
Private Kevin Bluck served in the 3rd Battalion RAR from February 15,1971 until October 13, 1971. Maurice Beasley, a Bowenite, was called up at the same time as Jeff, Ian and Barry. He had been working as a sugar chemist at the Proserpine Sugar Mill at that time and travelled with them to Singleton for training. (Temp) Corporal Maurice Beasley was a section commander 8 RAR and served in Vietnam from November 17,1969 to October 1,1970.
We thank them for their service. Lest we forget.
The Whitsundays Writers Festival has named its shortlist for the 2026 Whitsundays Literary Heart Award Short Story Prize, narrowing the 20-story longlist down to just eight finalists as judging enters its final and most closely contested stage.
The shortlisted stories were drawn from a national field of 94 entries and represent the very best of what this year’s competition had to offer: a mix of crime, historical fiction, contemporary drama, speculative fiction and more, judged anonymously and assessed purely on the strength of the writing.
“The standard this year has made every stage of judging genuinely difficult,” said Festival Director Richard Evans. “Narrowing the field to these finalists wasn’t about finding fault with the stories that didn’t make the cut, it was about identifying the small number that stood out even among very strong company. That’s a great problem for a regional prize to have.”
The eight shortlisted stories will now progress to the final stage of judging, with finalists coming from five states and territories across Australia.
Queensland has two finalists, Janet Humphries and Jessica McLaren, while Victoria is represented by Fergal Bannon, Christopher Mitchell and Matthew Southwell. Kat Ryan represents Western Australia, Lesley Boland the ACT and Bon Henry-Edwards South Australia.
Next, The judging panel will now undertake its final assessment of the shortlisted stories to determine the 2026 winner and runner-up.
The Open Age Short Story Prize carries a $1,000 first prize and $500 runner-up prize.
The winner and runner-up will be announced at the Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards ceremony at the 2026 Whitsundays Writers Festival, held on Sunday 13 September at the Whitsunday Marine Club, Cannonvale.
A free community afternoon celebrating local writing
This year’s festival puts local authors front and centre, with a free community afternoon open to everyone, no ticket required. Locals and visitors are invited to swap a book at the community book swap, browse book stalls from more than 20 regional authors, enjoy live music and watch local artists at work, and grab a snag at the community sausage sizzle.
“The Heart Awards bring a national spotlight to the Whitsundays, but this festival has always been about our community too,” Richard said.
“The free afternoon is our way of making sure everyone can be part of it, whether you’ve read every local author book or you’re just here for the sausage sizzle.”
Image from Pexels
Whitsunday residents are being asked to get behind a push for a mobile blood bank service, with more than 1,300 people already adding their names to the campaign.
The push has been underway since October 2025, with campaigners arguing a region of more than 40,000 people should have an easier way to roll up their sleeves and donate.
For anyone in the Whitsundays wanting to give blood has to travel to the nearest permanent donor station, which is in Mackay. That means setting aside a decent amount of time just to donate, something campaigners say can be difficult between work, family and everyday commitments.
They have even offered to financially contribute towards bringing a service to the region, but say Australian Red Cross Lifeblood advised them it is government funded and does not accept monetary donations for the purpose.
The calls come as Lifeblood continues to seek more donors, with blood supplies recently falling to a 12-month low.
Blood also cannot simply be stored away for when it is needed, with red blood cells having a shelf life of just 42 days.
Campaigners believe the Whitsundays has plenty of people ready to donate if given the chance to do so closer to home.
“If our region is ready to think BIG, we need this facility,” Michael and Val said.
“It should be a priority.”
They have also pointed to Proserpine Hospital’s reliance on blood supplied from Mackay, raising concerns about how readily blood could be accessed locally during a major emergency.
The campaign has been taken to state and federal politicians as well as local councillors, but those behind it say they now need more voices to get behind the cause.
So far, 1,338 people have signed a Change.org petition calling for a mobile blood bank service in the Whitsundays.
For the campaigners, the next step is getting decision-makers to listen and giving Whitsunday residents a realistic opportunity to donate closer to home and contribute to boosting our local supply.
This push comes amid a critical time for donations, with Lifeblood Chief Customer Officer Cath Stone saying winter colds and flu wipe out potentially thousands of people from donating on a national scale.
“Nationally we’re seeing up to 1,600 donation appointments sit empty every day, with many more people cancelling or rescheduling appointments,” Cath said.
“Even mild symptoms such as sniffles, sore throats, and headaches make people temporarily ineligible to give blood, and this can severely impact the availability of donors during winter months.
“Patients in critical situations will always get the blood they need, but full fridges are essential to ensuring blood is available for everyone who needs it, when they need it,” she said.
“This includes cancer patients, new mothers, people undergoing surgery, and many other patients including children who need donated blood to save their lives.
“We’d all want blood to be there if it was someone we knew or loved who needed it.”
Pheobe Murphy Photo supplied
At Collinsville State High School, being a small school means we can do things differently - including pioneering School-Based Education Support traineeships in our region. Through traineeships, community partnerships and working with off-site registered training organisations, our senior students access pathways that work for them.
We asked some of our Year 11 and 12 students to share their experiences…
Pheobe Murphy (Year 12 student)
Years 11 and 12 at Collinsville State High School have looked different for everyone in my classes. There are various opportunities provided for students at this school, from online courses for certificates to school-based traineeships to travelling for TAFE courses.
For me, senior secondary has looked like spending Wednesday's bonding with students and staff at Collinsville State School and building confidence in the workplace while I completed a Certificate III in School-Based Education Support with a school-based traineeship.
It's been an incredible opportunity to introduce myself to work and allowing me to understand what I want to do in the future, and earning a Certificate III.
Mckenzie Grosskreutz (Year 12 Student)
My traineeship at Collinsville State School has been a valuable experience while completing my Certificate III in Education Support. I have worked with students in Year 5/6 and have recently transferred to Prep/Year 1 which is giving me experience across different age groups and learning needs.
This experience is helping me develop my communication, classroom support and behaviour management skills.
It has also given me a better understanding of the role of an education support worker and will help prepare me for my future career as a primary school teacher, working in schools and supporting students.
Holly Maher (year 11 Student)
One of the experiences I have valued this year is studing a Certificate III in Agriculture through Charters Towers School of Distance Education. The course has provided me with the chance to acquire new skills and knowledge, as well as offering opportunities to obtain hands on experience.
Our class recently visited Wambiana Station where we engaged in various activities like branding, drafting, spraying and fencing.
We also gained an insight into artificial insemination in cattle, learning how this breeding technique can be used to selectively improve herd genetics and assist producers in achieving desirable traits within their cattle.
It was a great experience and gave me the chance to learn outside the classroom and put my knowledge into practice.”
Finlay Farrell and his prep buddy, Hendrix Travis. Photo supplied
From the playground to cooking, painting or having a laugh, St Catherine’s Catholic College’s oldest and youngest students are proving the gap between Prep and Year 12 isn’t quite as big as you’d think.
Through the College’s annual Buddy Program, every Year 12 student is paired with a Prep student, building friendships that give the school’s youngest learners someone to look up to, while offering the graduating class their own opportunity to become mentors.
“With those buddy programs, I guess it’s kind of building that relationship between our junior students and our senior secondary students,” said Assistant Principal Bruce Laguna.
“It gives them that extra bit of purpose and leadership here at the College.”
The program gives each pair plenty of opportunities to bond, whether through cooking, painting, moulding Play-Doh or heading out to the soccer fields, while also giving the Year 12s a chance to lend a hand in the classroom.
“I really enjoy it, to be honest. I think it’s great that we get to build connections throughout the whole of the College,” said year 12 student, Finlay.
The project culminates with a new tradition at the school, which will see the prep students walk their year 12 students down the aisle for graduation.
“Starting some traditions are really valuable and important, so that way we’ve got something significant for our future graduating students.”
Bowen State High School is excited to welcome students, staff, families and the wider Bowen community to its 2026 Arts Showcase.
This event will celebrate the outstanding talents of both students and staff across a range of artistic disciplines. From instrumental music, drama and vocal performances to short films and visual art displays, the evening promises to be a memorable celebration of creativity and talent.
Throughout 2026, students and staff in the Arts Department have been developing works inspired by a variety of themes. These performances and art pieces reflect the dedication, imagination and artistic skill of Bowen State High School’s talented students. With no school musical being staged this year, the Arts Showcase provides a wonderful opportunity for students to present their work and share their artistic achievements with the school and wider community.
Audience members can look forward to performances by the concert band, a series of short films, scenes from Macbeth, the premiere of a new school song, and much more.
“We have a talented group of staff and students who are passionate about the arts, drama and music,” said Bowen State High School Principal, Robert Harris.
“Their passion is inspiring, and I always enjoy attending these events to see their work come to life. I invite our school and wider community to come along and support them.”
The school encourages everyone to attend and enjoy an evening showcasing the creativity and hard work of Bowen State High School’s Arts community.
Contributed with thanks to Principal Robert Harris.
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2026 Mackay and Whitsunday Life Pty Ltd.
