The Proserpine Nursing Home opened 40 years ago this month, filling an important gap in aged care facilities within our community.  Since the time of its opening, the nursing home has expanded from 30 to 103 beds today.

In March 2004, Mrs Zena Price, Past Patroness of the Proserpine Historical Museum, penned the following article on the history of the Proserpine Nursing Home.

It has been said that in every field of human life things have gone ahead because people of vision have had a dream and a hope of something that may be possible. To live comfortably in the world, we must have dreams and Margaret Rose Rigby’s dream was to have a nursing home in Proserpine - a place where invalids and the elderly could enjoy the comforts of being cared for in an environment they knew, amongst relatives and friends.

Margaret was not a native of this district.  Her husband, Jordan, became Manager of the Proserpine Sugar Mill in 1978. Soon after their arrival, in conversation with friends and from her own observations, she learned that some of our elderly were being cared for in the local hospital or in out-of-town nursing homes. She first called a public meeting in 1980 to discuss the viability of a nursing home a committee was formed with Mr Ray Botto as president.

The first estimate of $800,000 seemed impossible but the generosity of the Eddie Dray family in donating 1.6 hectares of land for a home removed a considerable financial burden from the committee. Proserpine Co-operative Sugar Mill each gave $50,000 with the State and Federal Governments providing substantial donations.

The committee left no stone unturned in its efforts to make the home a going concern. They ran goose clubs, manned the gate at the rodeo, harvested bean crops, made curry and rice for the Harvest Festival; the ladies had bridal afternoons, the Rotary and Lions Service Clubs were most generous. By April 1986, Margaret received the keys to the home. No vacancies!!

In 1990, another marathon effort, and ten units known as “Hazelwood Hostel” were connected to the southern end of the Nursing Home.  “Hazelwood” honours the memory of James Nicol, an original cane supplier to the Mill in 1897, who called his farm “Hazelwood”. The Nursing Home is built on part of that farm which was sold in 1948, to the Dray family.

In 2000, the very comfortable “Whitsunday” wing was made possible by the transfer of $350,000 from the Aged Care Association at Airlie Beach and Jubilee Pocket.

In 2003, a fourth wing named “Windermere” was opened.  The name “Windermere” is familiar to this district.  It was the name given to land purchased at Cannon Valley near Brandy Creek by Mr HW Holmes when he arrived in 1894 and is still in the Holmes family. The Windermere School, one of the district’s country schools, was built on land donated by Mr Holmes and operated for the children in that area from 1922 till its closure in 1942.

No doubt, Margaret Rigby’s dream came to fruition because of the untiring efforts of many good local residents, service clubs, good management, caring staff and government help.

Story sourced from Proserpine Historical Museum archives (PHMS Magazine Issue 54 March 2004). Photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum.

Captions

L-R Jean Hinschen; Margaret Perkins; Gwyn Johns; Margaret Rigby - Four hard workers seen preparing the grounds before the opening.

Photo supplied.

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Steve Fraser is the winner of Photo of the Week this week, sharing this photo of Airlie Main Street for the “Street Life” theme.

Next week’s theme is “Angles”. Budding photographers are welcomed to submit their photos via the Whitsunday Amateur Photographers Facebook Group.

1 - Photos contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Amateur Photographers group.

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Bella is the kind of dog who reminds you just how powerful love and resilience can be.

Connection is everything to Bella. She thrives in environments where she can be part of the family and included in daily life. For this reason, she would be best suited to a home where people are around most of the time, as being left alone all day would not meet her emotional needs.

Bella is a medium-sized dog with a medium energy level—equally happy to enjoy playtime and then settle in for cuddles. She is wonderful with children, currently being assessed with other dogs, and her compatibility with cats is still unknown.

Her ideal home would include secure fencing, a family-oriented environment, and, most importantly, a lifelong commitment from people ready to give her the stability she deserves.

Bella comes microchipped, has had all necessary veterinary work completed, and has made a full recovery from a previous illness. She is now healthy and ready to begin her next chapter.

Her adoption fee is $400.

Bella has already proven her strength. Now, she just needs someone to choose her—and to choose her for good.

If you believe you could offer Bella the loving home she’s been waiting for, please reach out with your name, phone number, and expression of interest.

If you are interested, please contact Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc.

Captions

Photo source: Facebook

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The volunteer-led Bowen Community Op Shop is once again showing how powerful grassroots generosity can be, welcoming an impressive flow of donations from the community, and using every dollar earned to directly invest back into the Bowen and Collinsville region.

Thanks to the overwhelming generosity shown by locals, the Op Shop is currently offering clothing without tags for $1 and baby clothing for 50 cents, making essential items accessible to families doing it tough.

Not only is the shop a useful resource, all income raised is being channelled straight back into community programs. Funds have supported chair‑based exercise classes, tech classes, health forums, dancing programs, the Bowen Soup Kitchen, the Food Bank, festivals and more than 90 community organisations across the region.

The Op Shop has also helped sponsor two Bowen State High School students to attend university, demonstrating its long‑term commitment to local youth.

The Bowen Community Centre, which oversees the Op Shop, was recently approved as a registered Social Enterprise Trader, formalising its long‑standing practice of returning more than half of its profits to community benefit.

The Bowen Community Council, which is the governing body over Bowen Community Centre, has also provided free space to the Bowen Art Society, ensuring local artists have a place to create and collaborate.

Open from 8.30am to 2.30pm on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, the shop relies entirely on community donations and has become a supportive hub for local residents.

If you want to be a part of it, come in and say hello at 34 – 40 Gregory Street Bowen.  

Contributed with thanks to Stephanie Cora. Photo supplied.

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Locals across the Mackay Whitsundays are being encouraged to celebrate the people, places and experiences that make their region special, with nominations now open for the 2026 QLD Day Awards and voting underway for the All the Best campaign.

Part of the annual QLD Day celebrations on 6 June, the initiatives shine a spotlight on community heroes, local businesses and iconic destinations that reflect the spirit of Queensland.

From volunteers and grassroots contributors to standout events and favourite local spots, the awards recognise those who help shape and strengthen communities across the state.

Premier David Crisafulli said the campaign was about showcasing everything Queenslanders love about where they live.

“From your local pizzeria to your favourite beach, we want Queenslanders to share what they love most about our amazing State,” he said.

“We’re also calling on all Queenslanders to help us recognise our amazing community members and organisations by nominating them as part of this year’s competition.”

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the region had no shortage of worthy nominees.

“We live in the best place in the world, and there is so much to be proud of and celebrate this Queensland Day,” he said.

Member for Whitsundays Amanda Camm echoed the sentiment, highlighting the region’s diversity.

“From our incredible islands, agriculture and local businesses to the hardworking volunteers and community champions who give so much back, Queensland Day is a chance to celebrate everything that makes our region so special," she said.

Voting is now open, with winners to be announced on 3 June.

CAPTION: Sun, sea and sand at Bowen’s Grays Bay; just one of the many North Queensland gems locals are being encouraged to celebrate this QLD Day. Photo source: Visit Queensland

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Bakers Co. Whitsunday started its life as a Brumby’s franchise run by couple Vicky Liu and Andy Tao. After running the store successfully for seven years, the pair decided to go independent, forming Bakers Co. Whitsunday – however the great feeds and tastes that made their business special remain.

Located in the Whitsunday Shopping Centre in Cannonvale, the business has seen immense success over the years.

Bakers Co. Whitsunday boasts a host of delicious treats such as their custard tarts, vanilla slices, jam donuts for those with a particularly sweet tooth – and pies, sausage rolls and coffees for a delicious all rounded breakfast.

Both Vicky and Andy are incredibly grateful for the long-term support they have received from the community over the years.

Despite the rebranding, Bakers Co. Whitsunday show no signs of slowing down as they continue to garner support and spread the joy across the region.

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A former Bowen State High School student is making waves in the scientific world, developing a revolutionary way to track one of the ocean's most invisible threats.

Dr Scott Morrissey, a member of the Bowen State High School Class of 2013, recently achieved his PhD at James Cook University. His research uses "environmental DNA" (eDNA)—tiny genetic traces left in the water—to detect the presence of deadly Australian box jellyfish (Chironex fleckeri).

For Principal Rob Harris, Scott’s success comes as no surprise. Mr Harris, who taught Scott in Year 11 and 12 Biology, remembers a student with a clear drive.

"Scott was an incredibly focused student who always had a keen interest in biology," Mr Harris shared.

"It has been wonderful to follow his journey over the past 12 years. His (Scott’s) parents always keep me updated on what he is studying and where he is in the world."

In his thesis acknowledgements, Dr Morrissey concluded - “Finally, I would like to thank my family – Mum, Dad, Dylan, Joshua, and of course my sidekick Percy. Your unwavering support and encouragement have kept me grounded and driven. Thank you for believing in me and for supporting me every step of the way.”

After graduating from Bowen, Scott completed a Bachelor of Science with Honours, a path that allowed him to travel the world while pursuing his passion for marine life. His doctoral research finally solved a long-standing mystery: where box jellyfish come from.

By testing just two litres of seawater, Scott’s method can detect the jellyfish during their ‘polyp’ stage—the stationary phase before they become mobile stingers. His findings revealed that these jellyfish are ‘homebodies’ that stay within specific bays rather than drifting along the coast, a discovery that will vastly improve how local beaches manage stinger risk.

For the Bowen State High School community, Scott’s journey represents a core mission.

"This connection with the community is what Bowen SHS is all about," Mr Harris added.

"Strengthening relationships and embracing opportunities to ensure students realise their full potential and are prepared for all things."

With his PhD now complete, Dr Morrissey’s work stands as a testament to how a passion sparked in a local classroom can lead to world-first discoveries that protect swimmers across the coastline.

Dr Morrissey’s paper can be accessed via: https://researchonline.jcu.edu.au/89811/2/JCU_89811_Morrissey_2024_thesis.pdf

Contributed with thanks to Robert Harris.

Captions

Scott Morrissey attended Bowen State High School and recently completed his PHD. Photo supplied

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Last week, ‘Backpacking Poms’ Joe Taylor and Isaac Hirsch passed through Airlie Beach on their epic mission to raise funds for Talk2MeBro, a charity dedicated to improving men’s mental health through connection, conversation, and education.

The two young Brits started their journey in Newcastle and will be cycling 17,000km around the Australian Coastline, sharing their adventure online and raising awareness and money for their cause – one close to both of their hearts.

“We’ve seen how many men are taught to “tough it out,” to bottle things up, and to keep moving no matter how heavy life becomes,” the pair shared.

“We’ve seen friends, family members, and people we admire fight unseen battles — and tragically, some have been lost far too soon.”

“We don’t want men to feel like they have to fight alone anymore.

“This ride is our way of proving that vulnerability is strength, not weakness. That speaking up takes courage. That connection can save lives.”

Isaac said that the duo received outstanding support in our region.

“Our stop in the Whitsundays was incredible. We got a free day trip with Ocean Rafting - Nathan helped us out - and our captain Brent was amazing.” He said.

“A lovely lady named Clare let us stay at her place for a couple of days, we made some great friends, and the locals supplied us with food throughout our stay. The support and kindness made the Whitsundays an unforgettable part of our ride!”

Joe and Isaac are forthcoming about their own struggles with mental health, and how meaningful the challenge is to them.

“For most of our lives, neither of us have truly felt fulfilled,” they stated.

“Deep down, we’ve always known we were meant for something bigger than ourselves — a challenge that would push us physically, mentally, and emotionally to our absolute limits.

“That’s why we’ve decided to take on one of the toughest adventures we can imagine.”

Follow along and donate to the cause on the pair’s socials: @the.bikepackingpoms

1- Isaac Hirsch (left) and Joe Taylor (right) were seen off a Talk2MeBro representative in Newcastle on March 1st. Photo source: LinkedIn

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Over the last few weeks there have been national headlines reporting on mass cancellations of regional flights across Australia. Despite difficulties with the fuel crisis, Whitsunday Coast Airport is showing consistent and stable reports and there should be no cause for alarm at this current point in time.

Whitsunday Regional Council Director Commercial Businesses Craig Turner said while there has been some national reporting around fuel impacts and flight cancellations, the Whitsundays continues to perform strongly overall.

“Like many regional areas, we’ve seen some minor adjustments to flight schedules, however forward bookings remain very strong, and airlines continue to show confidence in the Whitsundays market”, said Mr Turner.

“In fact, Whitsunday Coast Airport is performing exceptionally well, with passenger growth of 6.2 per cent  which is the strongest result among tourism-focused regional airports and well above the national average, reinforcing the Whitsundays’ position as one of Australia’s most in-demand destinations.”

“We’ve just come through a very strong Easter period, with high passenger numbers and solid demand, which highlights the ongoing strength of the Whitsundays as a tourism destination.”

“Overall, the region remains in a very positive position, with demand continuing to track strongly despite some of the broader national challenges.”

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Hello everyone,

I am incredibly excited to be doing the editor’s note this week. I’ve now been in the Whitsundays for three months and I am so grateful to be part of such a welcoming community.

I was privileged to visit my home in Melbourne over the Easter weekend to see friends and family. It got me thinking about what home actually means to a person.  

For a time, I had been listening to the song 500 Miles by Peter, Paul and Mary.

I’m actually a lot further than 500 miles. Moreso roughly 1478 miles. ‘Lord I’m 1, lord I’m 2, lord I’m 3, lord I’m 4, lord I’m 1478 miles from my home’ - doesn’t work as well lyrically, for obvious reasons.  

I think home is more of a feeling than a place. It’s not merely a house or a room. We find home in many things – in the people we love and trust, in the sounds and noises that seem painfully familiar, in the views and sightings that become commonplace in our subconscious.  

The place you grew up in is like a beautiful scar. No matter where you travel, who you meet or what new places you decide to call home – that place you are ultimately from always lingers. Even if that too changes, there is a feeling that always remains.  

Having completed university in Melbourne, I spent my entire life there, up until now. This is my first time living out of home independently and it’s been a huge adjustment but I am pleased to being making that adjustment in a wonderful environment surrounded by amazing people.

So, what to you is home? Is it the Whitsundays? Is it your partner or your friend? Is it a song, or book or novel you love desperately? Home can manifest in a variety of ways.  

In the words of one of my favourite writers James Baldwin: “Perhaps home is not a place but simply an irrevocable condition.”

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Founded in January 2026, Whitsunday Migration Services provides professional, ethical, and personalised Australian immigration assistance for individuals and families navigating the migration process.

The business specialises in visa and citizenship advice, helping clients understand the pathways available and identify the options best suited to their circumstances. Services include full visa application preparation and lodgement, as well as managing communication with the Department of Home Affairs on behalf of clients. To protect sensitive personal information, the business also provides an ISO 27001-certified secure online client portal, allowing documents to be uploaded, messages exchanged, and case updates tracked in a safe and confidential environment.

The motivation behind the business is deeply personal. Having experienced the migration journey firsthand, the founder understands that migration is far more than paperwork. It is a major life decision often filled with emotional and practical challenges. Whitsunday Migration Services was created to ensure clients feel supported, informed, and confident throughout the process. Built on empathy, professionalism, and expertise, the service aims to guide people through Australia’s complex and constantly evolving migration laws with clarity and care.

The migration industry itself is also changing. Increasingly, people are turning to online tools and artificial intelligence for immigration information.

While these tools can provide general guidance, they cannot replace the expertise of a registered migration professional. Migration laws change frequently, and incorrect or outdated advice can lead to serious consequences, including visa refusals or legal complications. As a result, educating clients about the importance of trusted professional guidance is a key part of the business’s role.

Whitsunday Migration Services also offers multilingual support in English, Cantonese, and Mandarin, ensuring clear communication and a culturally inclusive experience for clients from diverse backgrounds.

As a member of the Chamber of Commerce, the business values connecting with other local organisations, supporting the regional business community, and contributing to a welcoming environment for people building new lives in the Whitsundays.

Learn more about Whitsunday Migration Services: https://whitsundaymigrationservices.com.au/

Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry

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A milestone was marked in Collinsville on 2nd April, when Whitsunday Regional Council officials, Birriah Elders and community members met for a turning the sod ceremony for the new Collinsville Community Hub.

The event brought together Minister Dale Last - Member for Burdekin, Cr Michelle Wright - Division 4, Whitsunday Regional Council, Birriah Elders including Uncle Jim Gaston, and other interested locals.

A traditional smoking ceremony took place, in what Mayor Ry Collins called ‘a meaningful way to acknowledge the cultural significance of the site and mark this important step forward.’

“It’s fantastic to see construction already underway on this important Council project, which will revitalise a long-standing community space and deliver a modern hub for local groups, activities and connection,” Mayor Ry Collins shared.

“This project is about more than just a building — it’s about supporting the volunteers, organisations and community leaders who make Collinsville such a strong and resilient town.”

Once complete, the hub is intended to provide a welcoming home for the whole Collinsville community.

This project was supported through the Resources Community Infrastructure Fund.

“Our region has more than $20 billion worth of resources either mined or moving through our ports each year, and it’s important that we get our fair share and the royalties generated from this are invested back into our communities through projects like this,” Mayor Collins added.

“Looking forward to seeing this facility take shape over the coming months and the benefits it will bring for years to come.”

1- Mayor Ry Collins and MP Dale Last turn the sod.

2- The event brought together Whitsunday Regional Council with Birriah Elders and other interested locals.

3-  The new hub is intended to provide a welcoming home for the whole Collinsville community. Photo source: Facebook

More Queenslanders are stepping onto the property ladder, with the State Government expanding its Boost to Buy scheme and opening a second round of applications.

The program, designed to support first home buyers, has already helped 150 Queenslanders secure their first home since its launch, with an additional 500 places now being made available.

Under the scheme, eligible buyers can access a government equity contribution of up to 30 per cent for new homes and 25 per cent for existing properties, helping bridge the gap for those struggling to save a deposit.

Treasurer and Minister for Home Ownership David Janetzki said the response to the initiative had been strong.

“We are delivering more Queenslanders a place to call home through Boost to Buy," Treasurer Janetzki said.

“We're delivering what we promised – the right plan to unlock homeownership opportunities across Queensland.”

Applicants are required to have a minimum two per cent deposit and meet income thresholds, with half of all places reserved for regional Queensland buyers.

First home buyers Mitchell and Samantha Stanger said the scheme had made a significant difference for their young family.

“Even though we were working hard and saving, the deposit gap kept owning a home out of reach,” Mr Stanger said.

“With the Government’s equity contribution, we were able to buy and have payments we can manage and ultimately have the security of knowing we have a place to call home.”

The scheme forms part of a broader package of housing measures, including the First Homeowner Grant and stamp duty concessions, aimed at improving access to home ownership across the state.

Real Estate Agent Hands Over House Stock Photo 2212647767 | Shutterstock

CAPTION: The Government is delivering a place to call home for more Queenslanders by adding an additional 500 placements into its nation-leading home-ownership scheme, Boost to Buy. Photo source: Shutterstock

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More Queenslanders could soon find the door to home ownership opening a little wider, with the second round of the State Government’s Boost to Buy now open for applications.

The scheme, introduced by the Queensland Government, helps first home buyers enter the property market sooner by providing an equity contribution toward the purchase price of a home.

In the first three months since the program launched, 150 buyers have already secured their first homes. The government has now expanded the initiative with an additional 500 places available as part of the program’s broader commitment of $330 million to deliver up to 2,000 placements over three years.

Under the scheme, the government contributes up to 30 per cent of the purchase price for new homes and up to 25 per cent for existing homes. To be eligible, buyers must have saved at least a two per cent deposit and purchase a property valued at $1 million or less.

Half of all placements are reserved for buyers living in regional Queensland, ensuring communities outside the south-east corner also benefit from the initiative.

Applicants must also meet income thresholds of up to $150,000 annually for single purchasers or $225,000 for households with two adults or singles with dependants.

Treasurer and Minister for Home Ownership David Janetzki said the program was already delivering results for aspiring homeowners.

“We are delivering more Queenslanders a place to call home through Boost to Buy, after the former Labor Government shut the door on the dream of home ownership,” he said.

Aspiring homeowners Mitchell and Samantha Stanger said the program helped turn their plans into reality after years of saving while living with family.

“With the Government’s equity contribution, we were able to buy and have payments we can manage and ultimately have the security of knowing we have a place to call home,” Mr Stanger said.

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April brings a welcome shift in pace. With school holidays, long weekends and cooler nights settling in across Australia, it is the perfect time to plan a getaway or reconnect with family and friends. Whether you are heading up the coast, flying interstate or escaping for a quiet weekend away, travel should leave you feeling refreshed, not run down. For those living with sleep apnea, that starts with staying consistent with your CPAP therapy.

It might feel easier to leave your CPAP at home, but even one night without therapy can lead to poor sleep, snoring, headaches and daytime fatigue. Bringing your device ensures you stay rested, energised and ready to enjoy your trip. The good news is that travelling with CPAP is easier than ever, and with a little preparation, it can fit seamlessly into your plans.

Many people choose to travel with their everyday device, while others opt for a smaller, more portable model that is easier to pack and carry. If you are flying, keep your CPAP in your carry on, as most airlines classify it as medical equipment. For road trips or camping, a reliable power source or compatible battery will help keep your therapy running smoothly.

At CPAP Direct, we believe your therapy should support your lifestyle, not limit it. To get travel ready, visit cpap.com.au or call 1300 133 298 and rest easy wherever your travels take you.

Contributed with thanks to CPAP Direct.

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