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.
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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
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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
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Hillery Group, based in Bowen, operates a substantial maintenance division responsible for more than 500 pieces of plant and equipment. From quarry crushing and screening plant and generators to on-hihgway float haulage and side-tipper trucks, the sheer variety of machinery gives workers unparalleled hands-on experience. And for many, that’s a game-changer.
“What we offer that the mines and even other local employers can’t, is versatility,” said Kelly McDonald, Director-People, Culture and Business Development at Hillery Group.
“Our staff don’t get boxed into one type of machinery. They develop cross-functional skills at a very high level.”
The company is on the hunt for new maintenance workers, a challenge when trade-qualified staff are lured by the high wages of the mining sector. But Hillery Group promote its focus on upskilling, career development, and lifestyle.
The maintenance team plays a critical role in the business. If machinery isn’t running, productivity drops and with wet and dry hire a key part of their operations, performance is non-negotiable.
“Our maintenance team is responsible and accountable for the management of our asset, and they need to keep it performing at optimum levels,” said Kelly.
“If they're not keeping equipment running perfectly, then we lose productivity.
“We hire equipment out as well, so they are a critical component of our business.”
To foster a multi-skilled workforce, Hillery Group has implemented a mentorship model, rotating new staff through different types of equipment under the guidance of experienced senior tradespeople. Workers are also encouraged to pursue second trades if they wish, with support provided to help them diversify their skills.
This deliberate focus on professional growth is matched by a strong emphasis on flexibility.
“In order to compete with the mines, we offer flexible rosters like seven-on, seven-off shifts,” Kelly said.
“We can even tailor hours around family commitments like the kids run, so we offer flexibility down to the individual level.”
That level of individualised flexibility isn’t just a selling point, it’s a core part of Hillery’s culture. Whether it’s an older worker wanting regular rostered days off, or a younger parent adjusting start times, the company strives to meet staff where they’re at.
Businesses like Hillery Group are proving that career development, diversity of experience, and quality of life are just as powerful in attracting and retaining skilled workers.
And for those looking to become more than just a number on a payslip, be home every night and pursue a challenging and rewarding career, Hillery Group is the smarter choice.
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A New Era for Bowen’s Waterfront
This month marks an exciting step forward for Bowen with the announcement that the Queensland Government is investing $13.2 million to fast-track master planning for eight State-owned boat harbours with Bowen named to get a slice of the funding.
This is the news many in our community have been waiting for. After years of local voices calling for action, we now have a firm commitment to begin developing a long-term plan for Bowen Harbour that will guide future investment and activation of one of our town’s most iconic assets.
The Bowen Harbour Master Plan will be delivered by the State Government, through the Department of Transport and Main Roads and North Queensland Bulk Ports and comes as part of a broader push to revitalise neglected maritime infrastructure and unlock coastal economic opportunities.
What makes this announcement even more powerful is the timing. Council has recently completed the draft Bowen Foreshore Masterplan — a community-driven blueprint to transform the area between the jetty and the surf club into a vibrant, inclusive waterfront destination for locals and visitors alike.
Council is eager to align our Foreshore Masterplan with the upcoming State-led Bowen Harbour Master Plan to ensure both projects work together to deliver the best outcomes for the Bowen community.
I’ve raised this with both the Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickleberg and the Member for Burdekin Dale Last, and I remain hopeful that we can collaborate to ensure our local plans and priorities are considered as part of the State’s process.
Working together gives us the best chance to realise a shared vision for a connected, functional, and exciting waterfront precinct.
The Foreshore Masterplan focuses on public open space, recreation, and creating a welcoming, walkable coastal precinct.
The Harbour Master Plan, led by the State, will complement this by tackling the operational, commercial, and marine infrastructure elements ensuring that port activity, marine services and tourism can co-exist and thrive.
When combined, these two plans have the potential to reshape Bowen’s future. It’s the most significant coordinated investment in Bowen’s waterfront in decades and opens the door to new businesses, jobs, community spaces and tourism opportunities, all while respecting Bowen’s heritage and deep connection to the water.
I want to thank the Queensland Government and Minister Mickleberg for recognising Bowen’s potential and putting us on the list for accelerated planning. I also want to acknowledge our community, whose persistent advocacy has played a big role in getting us to this point.
Council will continue working alongside the State, local businesses and our community to ensure these plans reflect local needs and aspirations.
It’s an exciting time for Bowen. The wheels are now in motion, and we’ll be doing everything we can to turn these plans into reality and deliver the vibrant, connected waterfront Bowen deserves.
A colourful new children’s book by Mackay author and teacher Nikki Townley is winning hearts across the region and even making its way to Canberra.
No Drama Cane Farmer, released in April, is a charming, rhyming story that takes young readers on an educational journey through the sugar industry. From planting and harvesting to processing and sweet treats, Nikki breaks down the sugarcane industry in a fun and inclusive way, helping children understand where the food on their table really comes from.
The illustrations are vibrant and feature real moments from a sugar cane farmers day-to-day operations.
Since its release, No Drama Cane Farmer has quickly grown in popularity, especially among families in rural communities. It’s also stocked at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre beside the Big Mango, joining the range of locally themed merchandise available to tourists and locals alike.
Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said the team were always looking for new merchandise to expand the range on offer at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre next to the Big Mango.
“We love stocking local and regional products,” she said.
“Many of our visitors are looking for gifts for family and friends – and this is an excellent educational present.
“It tells the story of cane-farming in an easy-to-read format with great illustrations.
“We actually contacted the author after a visitor had asked if we were going to stock it as they had already heard about it.”
The book has even earned a place in Parliament House.
Federal Member for Dawson and Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability Andrew Willcox MP has added the book to their office collection, describing it as “A fantastic story of our sugar cane growing industry, in a family friendly manner,” and “A great conversation starter and a welcome change from the usual paperwork!”
“With Dawson being the largest cane growing region of our country, I was proud to bring this little piece of home to our nations capital.”
Readers have praised the book for its accuracy and appeal, with calls for it to be made available in school libraries, especially in city areas where children may have little exposure to the agricultural sector or a small understanding on where their food comes from.
This month, we meet Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce & Industry member Club Whitsunday—a brand new venue launched in January 2025 with a purpose that goes beyond hospitality. Designed as a commercial operation with a community-first vision, Club Whitsunday was established to directly support the growth and sustainability of local sport in the Whitsundays.
With every meal, drink, and event attended, patrons are helping fund improvements to local sporting fields, amenities, and access. As community support grows, so too will the club’s ability to make sport more affordable and accessible for everyone.
Club Whitsunday offers a full range of services, including a bar, bistro, gaming lounge, TAB, Keno, and a vibrant calendar of weekly events. Whether it’s a casual catch-up, family dinner, or community celebration, the club delivers entertainment with purpose.
“There’s no other venue quite like us in the region,” says Josh Prowse, General Manager. “We’re proud to offer a fresh, local experience while giving back to the community.”
The club’s opening is the result of over a decade of vision and effort by a group of dedicated volunteers. Their long-term dream was to create a sustainable funding source for local sport—and Club Whitsunday is now bringing that dream to life.
As with any new venture, the early months have brought both challenges and opportunities. The team is focused on building awareness, engaging locals, and establishing the club as a go-to venue for connection and celebration.
Their top business tip? Look after locals. Being the best for the local community is the foundation of long-term success.
As active members of the Chamber, Club Whitsunday values the opportunity to connect with other local businesses: “Meeting, engaging, and learning from other business owners in the same area is the major benefit” says Josh. “We’re all working towards better experiences for local and visitors.”
For the past eight years, your locally owned and operated Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine has proudly supported local not-for-profits, sporting clubs, and community initiatives — injecting more than $249,000 back into the Whitsundays.
2025 is shaping up to be one of our biggest years yet.
From helping to fund major regional events to supporting grassroots groups and school communities, we’re passionate about giving back. If you’ve spotted our fully equipped Community BBQ Trailer sizzling away at weekend events, you’ve already seen our support in action!
“Our profit-with-purpose model means the more our community banks with us, the more we can reinvest,” says Chairman Mark Henry.
“It’s a cycle of support — when you back us, we back you.”
Here’s where you’ll see us next.
We’re thrilled to sponsor several upcoming events across the region:
Need Funding or the Community BBQ Trailer? Apply Now!
Sponsorship applications are now open for local events and initiatives — including bookings for our popular BBQ Community Trailer. With limited funding and high demand, make sure your application shines.
Get started by contacting our Board Secretariat at secretary@whitsundaycel.com.au
Your Town. Your Bank. Everything You Need.
Feel good about where your money goes. Every account, loan or service with us helps build a stronger local community.
Visit Amanda and the team at Whitsunday Plaza Cannonvale. We’re open Monday to Friday, 9:30am–4:00pm (closed 1:00–2:00pm)
Or call us on (07) 4948 3599 or email cannonvale&proserpinemailbox@bendigoadelaide.com.au
Bendigo Bank – The better big bank
Proserpine State High School marked this year’s NAIDOC Week celebrations with a full calendar of activities in-house and excursions within the community.
They kicked it off with an AFL House Challenge inviting guests from both Townsville and Mackay AFL to run drills and matches on the school oval. Chris Viti from the Mackay Hospital Health Service represented the Deadly Choices Program setting up a tent full of rewards for the students.
First Nations families were invited to participate in a whole school parade that featured a special smoking ceremony from Traditional Owner Robert Congoo who shared a Gia and Ngaro dreaming story.
Students shared their voice at the school’s Student Forum and showed off their artistic skills during Indigenous art activities and learned about traditional artefacts during yarning circles.
You may have spotted Proserpine State High School students combing the Airlie Beach Foreshore for rubbish during the week alongside the team from Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc. They then headed back to the Eco Barge headquarters sorting the rubbish and learning about the important work Eco Barge do in our community to keep our beaches clean and marine life safe. This activity reiterated the importance of looking after Country.
Community and First Nations Liaison Officers from the Whitsunday Mackay Hospital Health Service spoke to the school’s Certificate II and III in Health students about best practice when caring for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in health care settings.
Running at lunchbreaks, all students at Proserpine State High School competed in Care Group challenges that highlighted traditional history from across the Whitsunday region. Well done to the First Nations staff at the school for organising a great program of events for all students and staff in celebration of NAIDOC Week!
This year marks a huge milestone for Catholic education in the Whitsundays. St Catherine’s Catholic College has dedicated the last 100 years to nurturing students in faith, knowledge and service.
To celebrate, St Catherine’s Catholic College hosted a Centenary Picnic, inviting alumni students, staff members, families and community members to join in the festivities.
College Principal Katherine Nelson said the Centenary was an opportunity to reflect on a shared history and give thanks for the people, partnerships and purpose that have guided the College across the decades.
“Celebrating 100 years of Catholic education is a deeply meaningful moment for our community,” Ms Nelson said.
“It reminds us of the strength and resilience of those who came before us and reaffirms our ongoing mission to provide a Christ-centred education for generations to come.”
Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP attended and said it was an honour to join the St Catherine’s community on Sunday to celebrate the wonderful occasion of the college’s 100th anniversary.
“St Catherine’s has been a cornerstone of our local community for a century, and these celebrations pay tribute to the generations of staff, students and families who have been part of the school’s story.
“St Catherine’s proudly honours the legacy of its founders, the Sisters of Mercy, whose values continue to guide the college today.
“I extend every good wish to St Catherine’s, and look forward to supporting the school in the years to come.”
School is back in session across the Whitsunday Shire! The classrooms are buzzing, and school routines are in full swing across the region and beyond following on from the commencement of Term 3.
With the winter school holidays slowly becoming a distant memory, families across the region have begun reviving early mornings, packed lunches, homework, after-school activities, and bedtimes. Although the transition can be tricky, following these simple tips can make the shift a whole lot easier.
• Set consistent sleep and wake times: aim for the same bedtime and wake-up time each day to help reset your child’s body clock.
• Prep the night before: lay out uniforms, pack lunches, and organise bags in the evening to avoid morning stress.
• Establish a morning routine: create a checklist (e.g. get dressed, eat breakfast, brush teeth, grab school bag) to keep mornings smooth.
• Limit screen time before bed: encourage wind-down activities like reading instead of devices in the hour before bedtime.
• Create a dedicated homework space: set up a quiet, tidy spot where kids can focus after school.
• Use visual planners or calendars: help kids keep track of school events, assignments, and extracurricular activities.
• Schedule after-school wind-down time: allow a short break after school before starting homework to recharge.
• Talk positively about school: keep the mood upbeat and encouraging to help kids feel motivated and confident.
• Be patient and flexible: it can take a couple of weeks to adjust, so allow time and be kind to yourself and your child.
Here’s to another term Whitsundays!
Okay, so winter in North Queensland isn’t exactly snowflakes and scarves, but when the sun dips and the breeze rolls in, it’s the perfect excuse to whip up something warm, hearty, and absolutely delicious.
Enter... pumpkin and sweet potato soup! It’s creamy, comforting, and totally foolproof. Plus, it only takes one pot and about 30 minutes of your time. Winning!
To get started, sauté a chopped onion and a couple of garlic cloves in olive oil until they’re smelling amazing. Add in 500g of chopped pumpkin and 300g of sweet potato, then pour in a litre of veggie or chicken stock. Let it all bubble away for 20–25 minutes, then blend until silky smooth. Feeling fancy? Swirl in a dash of cream or coconut milk and sprinkle with nutmeg or paprika for extra cosy vibes.
This golden bowl of goodness pairs perfectly with crunchy toast, garlic bread, or whatever carbs are calling your name. Garnish with herbs, chilli flakes, or a dollop of yoghurt to level up your presentation.
Whether you’re cuddled up on the couch or hosting a casual dinner with friends, this soup is the ultimate winter warmer—North Queensland-style. It’s quick, budget-friendly, and freezer-friendly (if there’s any left!).
So go ahead—light that scented candle, throw on your fluffiest socks, and embrace soup season. Because even in the tropics, we all deserve a little winter magic.
Deeter has waited so patiently… surely it’s his turn soon.
If ever there was a dog who deserves his happily-ever-after, it’s Deeter.
This affectionate and endlessly cheerful boy has been waiting far too long for someone to give him the chance he so deserves. With his eager-to-please personality and big heart, Deeter is ready to be someone’s loyal companion through thick and thin.
He’s the perfect mix of cuddle bug and adventure buddy — happy to lounge beside you on the couch or trot beside you on a walk in the park. All Deeter really wants is a human to call his own.
What makes Deeter so special?
Deeter comes desexed, microchipped, vaccinated, flea/tick/worm treated, and has also received a Proheart injection. He’s healthy, hopeful, and ready to go home.
Adoption Fee: $650
Location: Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue
Deeter’s heart is full of love — now all he needs is someone to give it to. Could it be you? Come meet him and see why this beautiful boy might just be the perfect fit for your life.
In a powerful display of precision and partnership, Republic of Korea Marines stormed the Bowen coastline as part of Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025 this week. Arriving via two roaring MUH-1 Marineon helicopters, they executed a textbook amphibious air assault—clearing enemy positions and seizing control of their objective.
Operating alongside Australian and U.S. forces, the mission tested their ability to adapt to unfamiliar terrain while seamlessly integrating with coalition partners.
It was mid-morning when their boots hit the ground and the Korean marines moved stealthily across the unfamiliar Australian terrain.
They located enemy positions, launched a section attack across a creek bed and neutralised the threat before taking control of the objective.
Under the cover of darkness, a combined Australian, United States and Korean reconnaissance team crept ashore in small boats to secure the landing zone, confirm enemy targets and check the terrain to ensure the Korean force could land uncontested.
First Lieutenant Dongmyeong Lee, who led the assault with his platoon from the 51st Battalion, said the exercise strengthened his troops’ ability to adapt quickly and fight alongside coalition partners.
“Today’s operation was successful thanks to each platoon leader and squad leader and how each member was able to perform their own duty successfully,” First Lieutenant Lee said.
“The main difference between the Republic of Korea and Australia is the territory. The elevations are different, the grass is different, but my members were able to adjust quickly and operate in optimal conditions.”
Major Scott Moon, Officer in Charge of the Land Response Cell in Bowen, said the exercise was about synchronising multinational forces to operate seamlessly in challenging coastal environments.
“The planning was conducted at the formation level, and then the assault was conducted by a platoon-plus sized element on the ground,” Major Moon said.
“For the Republic of Korea Marine Corps, this is the first time, apart from the force integration training, that they’ve actually conducted an assault on the ground in this Area of Operation.
“It was all smooth, it went to plan – they were on time and on target.”
The Bowen assaults formed just one part of a broader coalition mission, setting the stage for the next phase of the operation.
The assault was one of four objective sites in the Bowen area – the forces continued to move on to participate in Joint Forcible Entry Operations in Shoalwater Bay.
Reconnaissance marines and soldiers from the Republic of Korea Marine Corps, United States Marine Corps, and Australian Army support an air mobile operation and combat team assault during Exercise Talisman Sabre at Bowen, Queensland. Photo: Corporal Luke Bellman
Republic of Korea Marine Corps personnel conduct an air mobile operation and combat team assault during Exercise Talisman Sabre at Bowen, Queensland. Photo: Lance Corporal Jessica Gray
Last week, when staff entered their office in Airlie Beach, they noticed a little note had been left on their desks.
Looking around curiously, they wondered if it had been one of their co-workers, but soon discovered that every desk had a note - who could it be?
Each note was handwritten and included one simple yet inspiring sentence.
The office soon filled with staff, and each person read their note, taking a moment to pause before the day began.
Each note was individual, and somehow, each one spoke to a feeling inside. It provided a deep, meaningful message that only the recipient could truly resonate with.
“Who could have left these notes?” said one staff member.
Others shrugged in response.
“The only thing I can think of is that it was the cleaner.”
The cleaner, a young girl in her early 20s, had indeed been attending to her duties after hours the night before.
The desks sparkled, and the neat notes were left on top.
It had to be the cleaner.
The following week, the cleaner smiled knowingly when asked if it was her.
“I don’t know,” she said. “I just felt like it!”
This simple act of kindness reminds us that it doesn’t take grand gestures to make a lasting impact.
In a world that often rushes by, a few thoughtful words—offered quietly and without expectation—can spark connection, lift spirits, and leave a mark that lasts long after the moment has passed.
Kindness is powerful. And sometimes, it’s as simple as a note.
This week, I’m off on an adventure of my own—I fly to Italy today for a two-week holiday!
We’ll be landing in Rome, catching a train to Florence, and then taking a taxi to a small village called Radicondoli, where we’ve leased a small holiday villa with our family.
It’s a special trip for us, as we’ll be sharing the villa with my brothers and their families, along with our beautiful mother, Jan.
While I’m incredibly excited for the travels ahead, I’m also a little sad to be missing the Great Barrier Reef Festival this year. It’s truly one of the most magical events on our annual calendar, and I hope you all head down to enjoy it next week.
As the major print media sponsor of the Great Barrier Reef Festival, we’ve been running regular updates each week to help build excitement—and now we’re taking it up a notch with two special features!
This week, you’ll find an eight-page feature packed with details on the many activities happening during the festival. Next week, we’ll follow up with even more exciting news and updates leading into the big weekend. Be sure to read both editions to stay up to date with the latest information and event highlights.
It’s definitely Festival Season—and in the following weeks, we’re shifting into Airlie Beach Race Week! We’ll also be publishing a special feature on this iconic event, which is perfect for sailing enthusiasts and anyone looking to soak up the vibrant atmosphere.
Race Week is just as much fun onshore as it is offshore. The Whitsunday Sailing Club will host evening events throughout the week, finishing with a spectacular fireworks display for everyone to enjoy.
Don’t miss our upcoming Race Week feature to find out how you can get involved and join in the fun!
Rach
Quote of the Week: "One day your life will flash before your eyes. Make sure it's worth watching." (Gerard Way)
A snorkelling trip at one of the Whitsundays' most iconic destinations turned into a medical emergency last Thursday, when a woman in her 50s experienced breathing difficulties in a near-drowning incident at Whitehaven Beach.
Just before midday on 17 July, BMA CQ Rescue was urgently tasked to the area with the rescue helicopter becoming the only emergency service able to respond swiftly due to the area’s isolation.
Landing directly on the pristine sands of Whitehaven Beach, the onboard critical care team quickly stabilised the woman before airlifting her to Mackay for further treatment.
BMA CQ Rescue Pilot Leigh Wilkinson said the incident was a stark reminder of the vital role the service plays in the Whitsundays.
“Whitehaven is one of the most beautiful and remote parts of our region,” he said. “In situations like this, where time and access are major challenges, our rescue helicopter can make all the difference. We were able to get to the scene quickly, land safely, and ensure the patient received the urgent critical care she needed.”
The aeromedical mission highlighted the critical importance of having rapid-response rescue services in isolated areas, especially those frequented by tourists and recreational visitors.
BMA CQ Rescue is the only community-funded rescue helicopter service operating in the region, providing life-saving support across land, sea, and island communities. Available 24/7, 365 days a year, the service covers one of the most diverse and geographically vast areas in Queensland.
As tourism continues to bring thousands of visitors to locations like Whitehaven Beach each year, emergency response capacity remains essential—not only for local residents but also for the many who come to experience the beauty and adventure the Whitsundays have to offer.
BMA CQ Rescue on Whitehaven Beach last Thursday. Photo supplied
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