Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Rarely do you turn your nose up at a cheap deal, an opportunity to save some money. Life is too expensive, kids cost too much … even when they grow up and go to uni. But this was the discount I never wanted, the bargain I never sought. I was about to have lunch with a bunch of colleagues and friends at a local pub one Friday recently but couldn’t find anything on the menu that appealed to me that day. I wanted something light, or a smaller dish that wasn’t going to weigh me down for the rest of the day. I was ordering at the bar and the barmaid, trying to assist in my search for a lighter or smaller meal, came up with the words I didn’t want to hear. Her voice was loud and clear, easily picked up by my friends: “Why don’t you get one of the seniors’ meals?” There was a split second of silence when I took in and tried to comprehend the strange words I had never heard directed at me, then another split second of panic as I realised the friendly barmaid had a voice like a megaphone and my friends were well and truly within earshot at a nearby table. Then came the laughter from my friends who for some reason thought this was the funniest thing they had heard that day. “A seniors’ meal! Yeah, mate get yourself a seniors’ meal!” Apparently, it was hilarious. Now, I don’t know the exact age one becomes eligible for a seniors’ meal, or any seniors’ discounts for that matter. I have to keep working hard and staying fit and feeling young and in the prime of life so that I can continue to pour funds into the funnel that provides food and accommodation and uni life for kids and family. I have deliberately avoided thoughts of being a “senior” and, therefore, taking advantage of the discounts and special deals that no doubt are on offer. I googled the qualifying age the other day and it said traditionally Queensland set the age at 65. Which means I’m not qualified for seniors’ stuff yet. I suspect there are opportunities for “younger seniors” but I don’t need to go there. There is, of course, nothing wrong with seniors’ deals and one day I am sure I will take full advantage of them. But it is more of a mindset for me, living life, selling houses and working in a way that deems age irrelevant because there is too much to do. I might not look young but I need to feel young so I can keep going … so no thoughts of seniors’ anything. In the spirit of fighting against the tide of time, I stepped up my exercise routine recently and joined one of the flash new gyms in town. The space, lighting, music, and “feel” of the place create an “energy” that helps inspire you to work hard and get results. When it comes to real estate, I am a buyer who thinks more about location than how modern and terrific the house is, which is why I live in West Mackay. But a venue like that gym reminds me that the right house, with the right features and feel, creates an inspiration that elevates the experience of life. It’s not just about the location, it’s how you feel when you are there, what your life feels like and looks like. Location is important but sometimes the most convenient location can’t provide the elevated experience that a particular house can offer. It can change the way you feel and interact, how you entertain and enjoy yourself. The right environment can bring out the best in you and inspire you to greater heights. Even if you’re a senior.
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1986 – M&P Auto's Established, Archibald Street [860m2] 1987 – Moved to Satellite Crescent [3539m2] 1990 – M&P Transport Division 1994 – Shipping Containers 1997 – Max Lamb Jnr Joins M&P As Director 2002 – Moved to Spiller Avenue [16,000m2] 2004 – Authorised Duckbill Agent 2005 – First Transportable Building Designed & Built, Terry Seay joins M&P as a Director, Incorporated Company 2006 – First Mobile Crib 2008 – Opening of Rockhampton Depot (3998m2) 2009 – Combo Toilets 2010 – Authorised Teco Agent 2011 – Mobile Crib Rooms to PNG 2013 – Moved to Diesel Drive 2014 – Added Heavy Haulage To Transport Fleet 2016 – First Charity Golf Day, Authorised Tennant Agent 2017 – Authorised Earth Track Agent 2019 – Undercover Shed Extension 2021 – Wheeled Products division expanded, First Solar toilet trailers produced 2022 – Mobile Crib Rooms Added to Standard Hire Fleet 2023 – Largest Supply contract entered into at $4.9m 2024 – Cyclone Block & Log Tiedown System added to Manufacturing, Sales & Hire 2025 – 10th Annual Charity Day Raises 75k in one day, Manufacturing Excellence Award 2026 – 40th Year Milestone Achieved
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Every rescue kitten carries a story. Some begin in uncertainty, some in hardship, but all share the same quiet hope… to one day belong. Then there is Jinx. Sleek, black, and quietly enchanting, Jinx is the kind of kitten who stays with you. Like many rescue kittens, her early days were not easy, but with patience and care, she has discovered her confidence. Now, her playful spirit and affectionate nature are shining through more each day. Jinx is curious and clever, happiest when she is exploring her surroundings, watching the world from a sunny window, or settling in close after a burst of play. She is a reminder that sometimes the most overlooked animals—like black cats—have the most to give. Those who open their hearts to them are often rewarded with a loyalty that runs deep. Each of these kittens is on their own journey, but Jinx shares the same destination: a home filled with understanding, patience, and love. Because in the end, it’s not just about rescuing animals—it’s about giving them the chance to truly belong. Please contact foster carer Robin 0457 134 750. Contributed by Mackay Pet Rescue Inc.
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After nearly five decades of teaching, one of Mackay’s most passionate music educators is preparing for a bittersweet farewell as she leads her final ANZAC marching band trip. Kathryn George OAM has spent almost 49 years at North Mackay State High School, where she helped build the school’s renowned marching band program from the ground up. This year’s Brisbane ANZAC Day March will mark her final major appearance before handing the program to the next generation of staff. Mrs George formed the marching band in 1992 alongside fellow founding director David Bayliss. Since then, the program has grown into one of the largest single school marching bands in Australia. She said the program began as a way to extend talented instrumental music students beyond simply playing their instruments. “It’s a specialised skill and an extension to just playing an instrument, where you actually have to march and hold your position both vertically and horizontally while you’re playing,” she explained. Over the years the band has performed on some of the world’s biggest stages, representing Australia at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games and the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games, performing at Disneyland and the Los Angeles Independence Day Parade, and even appearing at the Shanghai Tourism Festival. “It’s certainly one of the largest single school marching bands in Australia,” Mrs George said. “It’s so unusual – and rather wonderful – that it comes from a little town like Mackay rather than a big capital city.” This year the school band will again travel to Brisbane with around 90 students preparing for the parade, where they will appear as the first civilian band at the start of the procession before later marching alongside the army contingent marking its 175th anniversary. Among those helping carry the program forward are former students who have returned as staff members. “I know it’s in good hands,” she said. This year’s band will be led by Year 12 drum majors Chloe Waples and Alana Plunkett, who were selected after extensive auditions. Reflecting on her career, Mrs George said music has always been central to her life and she believes it plays a powerful role in education. “I’m really passionate about how important music is in learning for students and how it enhances the whole learning experience,” she said. “It teaches self-discipline and patience. With an instrument you have to work at it… it’s not a quick gratification, but it’s highly rewarding.” When she retires at the end of the year, she hopes to spend more time with family, including welcoming a fourth grandchild. And as she prepares the band for Brisbane one last time, she says the milestone fills her with immense pride. “I’m just so proud of my legacy and that the teachers continuing the tradition have come up through the band themselves.” “It’s going to be a very bittersweet moment, but it’s something I’ve been preparing for a while now.” After nearly 49 years at North Mackay State High School, Kathryn George OAM is preparing to lead her final ANZAC marching band. Photo supplied
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Visitors to the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens are being urged to take extra caution following a report of a possible crocodile sighting in the lagoons over the weekend. While there has been no visual confirmation yet, the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI) has installed signage and will conduct investigations this week.
As a precaution, authorities recommend that visitors and their pets remain at least five metres from the water’s edge. The public is also encouraged to report any confirmed sightings to DETSI by calling 1300 130 372.
This report comes as crocodile activity in Mackay continues to make headlines. So far this year, there have been nine recorded crocodile sightings in the region. Just last month, DETSI confirmed a sighting in the freshwater above Dumbleton Weir. Wildlife officers have since baited a trap in an effort to remove the animal.
DETSI urges residents to report all crocodile sightings, whether they are a cause for concern or not, as tracking movements and behaviour helps authorities manage the presence of these reptiles. The only exception is when crocodiles are legally held in captivity, such as in farms or zoos.
For those who frequent Mackay’s waterways, staying “Crocwise” is essential. Avoiding swimming in known crocodile habitats, keeping a safe distance from the water, and remaining alert are all key steps to staying safe.
While this latest report remains unconfirmed, it serves as a timely reminder that Mackay is crocodile country. If you spot a crocodile, report it via the QWildlife app, the DETSI website, or by calling 1300 130 372.
Photo credit: Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens
The Zonta Club of Bowen hosted a successful fundraiser on Thursday the 20th of March at Bowen's quaint and iconic Summergarden Theatre. One of the longest continually operating theatres in Queensland, our local cinema has been the cornerstone of the community’s entertainment scene since its opening in 1948 and is now owned and operated by the town's very own Ben DeLuca since 1962.
The fundraiser featured a special screening of the heartwarming Australian film “What About Sal?” , written and directed by renowned actor and filmmaker John Jarrat. The film presents the touching and inspiring story of Sal, a man with Down Syndrome who embarks on a quest to find his unnamed father after learning of his mothers illness
This memorable evening included more than just a movie, guests enjoyed a delightful supper and complimentary champagne creating an enjoyable social atmosphere. Guests were also encouraged to wear mismatched or colourful socks as a playful act of support in order to raise awareness for Down Syndrome
The night was a testament to the strong relationship between the Zonta Club of Bowen and Summergarden Theatre owner Ben De Luca.
“We work with many charities in Bowen and we love the Zonta Club, they are a good mob, very organised. We host them regularly, even multiple times a year” said Mr De Luca.
Funds collected from this unforgettable evening directly support the Zonta Club of Bowen’s unwavering commitment and continued efforts in empowering and improving the lives of girls and women both locally and globally.
The club expressed their gratitude to Mr De Luca and attendees of the event, emphasising the importance of such events in bringing communities together and promoting awareness within them. Residents interested in supporting future Zonta Club Bowen initiatives or future events at Bowen Summergarden Theatres can follow them on their respective social media accounts.
Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, has announced that if he is re-elected in May this year, $250,000 will be committed towards upgrades to the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre, ensuring it can continue delivering vital services in a safe, modern, and accessible space.
“The Bowen Neighbourhood Centre provides essential support to people facing difficult circumstances, offering essential services that enhance dignity, wellbeing, and quality of life for people across the region,” Mr Willcox said.
“From providing assistance with housing and legal matters to supporting those affected by domestic violence, the centre is a critical lifeline for many in need. Every day, the dedicated staff and volunteers make an enormous difference in the lives of people across the community.” Mr Wilcox said that's he's dedicated "to strengthening regional communities, supporting local services, and ensuring that every Australian has access to the help they need when they need it most.”
John Finlay, Treasurer of the Bowen Community Centre said, “This is a fantastic announcement for the Bowen community." He sees this promise as a great opportunity to realise their vision for the future of the building itself, and the services they could help provide to the Bowen community.
“Once the building refurbishments are complete, this will open the door to allowing other community groups to use the upgraded facilities," commented John. “We are seeing a lot more domestic violence cases, which is really concerning. Cost of living is also a big issue, and we are seeing people of all ages and backgrounds needing help for the very first time. But we have an incredible team of highly trained staff who stand ready to provide crucial support services."
Once the centre is open John says that they “plan to also offer the spaces to corporate organisations for training and the good thing about that is any funds that come in will be put back into the Bowen Community Centre." The Neighbourhood Centre will to continue to operate as normal until then, so if you require any of their helpful services do not hesitate to drop by 34/38 Gregory St, Bowen QLD or give them a call at: 07 4786 2111.
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Wilcox and Councillor John Finlay, Treasurer of the Bowen Community Centre with the dedicated staff of the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre. Photon supplied
Friday night was a shining moment for BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort, as the team proudly
claimed Gold in the Caravan & Holiday Parks category at the national Qantas Australian Tourism Awards in Adelaide.
This remarkable win marks the third consecutive year that BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort has taken home Gold in this category, officially securing its place in the prestigious Australian Tourism Awards Hall of Fame.
With 185 entries over 26 categories, BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort was one of six out of 24 Queensland tourism operators who won gold at the national awards, with eight outstanding
operators from across Australia vying for the top spot in the Caravan and Holiday Parks category.
Owner Greg McKinnon, who attended the gala event with some of his team, expressed immense pride over the national recognition.
“Winning three years in a row and being inducted into the Hall of Fame is far beyond what we’d
imagined, particularly when we are competing against the best Holiday Parks in the country. The
competition in our category was outstanding, so we are extremely honoured to accept this gold
award, while also entering the Hall of Fame on an Australian level.
“This national win again highlights our dedication to setting industry benchmarks, consistently
delivering top-tier facilities, exceptional customer service and unforgettable family holidays. We’ll
continue striving for excellence, while incorporating some exciting new developments in the near future which our guests will love and which will only enhance their overall experience,” said Greg.
Cementing its place as one of Australia’s most celebrated holiday destinations, the national Hall of Fame status follows the resort’s recent induction into the state and local Hall of Fame after winning gold for three consecutive years in the same category at the Queensland and Whitsunday Tourism Awards, reflecting BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort’s unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and outstanding guest experiences.
CEO, Phil Casey, who also attended the national awards ceremony, praised the dedication of the resort’s team and the unwavering support of guests.
“We’re fortunate to have so many fun-loving guests who choose to stay with us, many returning
year after year, so needless to say we extend a huge thank you to our guests who continue to
share their holidays with us. This award is also a reflection of our incredible team’s hard work, both front and back of house, to create unforgettable holiday memories,” said Phil.
As one of Australia’s most loved holiday parks, BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort is a testament to exceptional experiences, recently celebrating 31 years of ownership by the McKinnon family and offering extensive facilities for families, caravanners and groups to enjoy a Whitsunday holiday like no other.
Guests can enjoy over 15 onsite activities, including the huge mega waterslide park, lagoon-style pool, mini golf, jumping pillows, outdoor cinema, Kid’s Club, and year-round activities program. The resort provides easy access to the Great Barrier Reef, Whitehaven Beach, the Whitsunday Islands, and a host of unforgettable Australian holiday experiences.
The BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort team take home gold for the third consecutive year at the Australian Tourism Awards. Photo supplied
The Whitsundays’ original and most awarded tour operator, Ocean Rafting, is stoked to take the podium and be recognised amongst Australia’s best tourism operators.
Since 1984, the Australian tourism Awards have long been the nation’s premier recognition of excellence in the tourism industry. Ocean Rafting joined the nation’s best in the beautiful Adelaide and is beyond thrilled to be taking home a Bronze in the “Major Tour & Transport Operator”category in the 2024 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards.
Peter and Jan Claxton, the proud owners of Ocean Rafting for 28 years, along with Nathan their Sales & Marketing Captain of 13 years, were overjoyed to represent the family-owned business at the awards ceremony in Adelaide. Their heartfelt gratitude went to their passionate team, dedicated family members, and loyal guests, whose support has been pivotal to their ongoing success.
Peter shared, “A huge thank you to all our team, both past and present, who share our passion for tourism and showcasing nature's wonders. We are proud to continue stepping onto the podium and winning awards like this for all those who have made Ocean Rafting what it is today”.
“Additionally, I would like to thank all our guests who have enjoyed a day out, whether that be on the water or in the air, in the last 28 years of operations”, said Pete
Jan added, “These awards are for our team, as much as they’re for us, so cheers to us, and cheers to the team”.
Three generations of family and almost three decades as one of the Whitsundays’ most loved on-water experiences, Ocean Rafting’s mission is still to treat every day as if it was the one and only day their guests will experience Ocean Rafting and the Whitsundays’; and this has attributed to the company’s long-term success and thriving growth over the years.
The team would also like to thank Australian Tourism Awards for facilitating these awards and their continued support for our industry. Additionally, we would like to raise our glasses to all the fellow operators and local businesses for their much-deserved recognition and awards.
Beyond their remarkable history of providing unforgettable on-water experiences, Ocean Rafting is equally committed to the environmental sector by participating in the Tourism Reef Protection Initiative and starting our very own initiative, “Tins 4 Fins,” to fund beach cleans and additional research, ensuring we protect this beautiful part of the world.
Ocean Rafting’s reputation speaks for itself and is recognised with a perfect score as Best of Queensland Experience under the national quality tourism framework along with a Quality Tourism accreditation. Additionally, Ocean Rafting is the recipient of a TripAdvisor Travellers Choice Award for being in the top 10% of attractions worldwide every year since 2012 and a TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best award winner in the Top 1% of Tourism Businesses around the world and Top 10 Experiences in Australia.
Ocean Rafting Peter and Jan Claxton with Sales & Marketing Captain Nathan Fleming at the Australian Tourism Awards which were held in Adelaide last weekend. Photo supplied
Last week, the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry launched its Advisory Group, bringing together regional business leaders to drive strategic discussions and strengthen the united voice of the Whitsunday business community.
“The Advisory Group will serve as a strategic think tank, reinforcing the Chamber’s position as the ‘go-to’ source of regional business expertise for all levels of government,” said Chamber President Allan Milostic.
In its inaugural meeting, the Advisory Group reinforced the need to tackle pressing business challenges, including red tape reduction, road quality and safety, and workforce availability and productivity.
Looking ahead, the group encouraged the Chamber to explore future-focused initiatives such as championing tradies, supporting young entrepreneurs, establishing special interest groups to advise on specific issues and precincts, and strengthening the region’s support of a university hub and research centres.
Queensland Small Business Month event
Registrations are now open for the Chamber’s Queensland Small Business Month event to be held 7:30am-9:00am Thursday 13 May in Airlie Beach.
Guest speakers include Dominique Lamb, Queensland Small Business Commissioner and Mayor Ry Collins. They will explore the following with the region’s business community, including ways we can increase collaboration to drive positive change:
Election Promise Report Card – Progress updates on road improvements, red tape reduction, and small business priorities.
Lessons from TC Alfred – Exploring the impact of recent weather events and strategies for future resilience.
L-R Andrew and Jaide Paranomos (McDonalds), Judy Porter (Shiift), Julia Wheway (TAFE Queensland), Bernadette Porter (Proserpine State High School), Mark Henry (Bendigo Community Bank), Adrian Bram (WCBIA) and Allan Milostic
Last week, I was on the road championing our incredible region on a national stage.
It was an honour to Chair my first Queensland Regional Tourism Network (QRTN) meeting on Monday, where we discussed how we can work together to strengthen tourism across the state. I’m looking forward to the year ahead and what we can achieve as a collective.
Next stop: the RTO Forum, which brought together tourism marketing organisations from across the country. We had insightful presentations from Tourism Australia on emerging travel trends, discussion panels on data and social media, and guest speakers covering everything from AI to innovative ways to gather new tourism insights. These conversations shape how we market our region and ensure we stay ahead of the curve.
From there, Laura and I travelled to Adelaide with Marianne from Whitsundays Regional Council to visit six Phil Hoffmann Travel stores, South Australia’s leading travel agency brand. As a business, we had the opportunity to train approximately 40 travel agents on The Whitsundays, providing key updates on attractions and experiences. With the direct Jetstar flight from Adelaide to Whitsunday Coast Airport, we’re working hard to make sure South Australians have The Whitsundays at the top of their travel list.
Finally, I was lucky enough to attend the 2024 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards on Friday night, where The Whitsundays absolutely shone! A massive congratulations again to BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort, Pinnacles Airlie Beach, and Ocean Rafting for taking home gold, silver, and bronze. These achievements help keep The Whitsundays on the map and reinforce why our region is such a special place to visit.
Contributed by Tim Booth, CEO, Tourism Whitsundays
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As Mayor of the Whitsundays, I hear firsthand from residents about the challenges they face every day. One of the most pressing concerns I continue to hear, time and time again, is the shortage of doctors in our region.
Right now, too many people in our community are struggling to get a timely appointment with a GP. Families, seniors, and workers are waiting weeks, sometimes even months, for basic medical care.
This is simply not good enough. Our residents deserve access to quality healthcare, no matter where they live.
With the federal election on the horizon, I am calling on all sides of politics to commit to better GP funding and real solutions to bring more doctors to regional communities like ours.
The Whitsundays is a growing region. More people are choosing to call our beautiful part of the world home, and we are experiencing record-breaking tourism numbers. But our healthcare system is not keeping pace.
I’ve spoken to local GP clinics, and the reality is clear—they are at capacity. Some have closed their books to new patients. Others simply don’t have enough doctors to meet the demand. This puts enormous pressure on our hospital system, forcing people to seek emergency care for issues that should be treated in a GP clinic.
Regional communities like ours should not have to compete with big cities to attract doctors. We need better funding models and incentives to encourage more medical professionals to live and work in places like the Whitsundays.
I am advocating for stronger federal government investment in regional healthcare, including a commitment to medical workforce planning, ensuring that regional Australia is not left behind when it comes to doctor shortages.
The Whitsundays is a world-class destination and a fantastic place to live. But access to quality healthcare is not a luxury—it’s a basic right.
As Mayor, I will continue to push for these critical changes in the lead-up to the election. I encourage our community to make their voices heard by asking your local candidates where they stand on regional healthcare, and demand action.
If you're looking for a peaceful escape, Whitsunday Gold Coffee is the perfect place. The plantation is famous for its locally grown coffee, and there’s nothing like sipping a cup made from beans grown right there on the property. Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast or just looking to relax, it’s a wonderful experience.
I thoroughly enjoyed chatting with the owner, Nikki, who is currently in the process of upgrading their aviary with new mesh and creating a serene nursery with a seated area. The charm of the plantation is undeniable. I can’t wait to see the finished space, it’s sure to become a fantastic spot for birdwatching and taking in the surrounding beauty.
For families, there’s an indoor play area and beautifully decorated kids' party rooms, making it a great place to bring the little ones.
I was also lucky enough to try one of Chef-Gus's incredible signature dishes; a mango and calamari salad. It was light, colourful, and packed with flavour, with tender calamari and fresh local mango.
Whitsunday Gold Coffee Plantation is a true treasure for Proserpine, offering a peaceful sanctuary to enjoy great coffee, delicious food, and nature. Whether you're stopping by for a coffee or a quiet day out, it's definitely worth the visit.
Contributed by Jade Yvonne, Business Development Executive, Tourism Whitsundays
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Hi Everyone,
Thank you to everyone sharing stories for the paper. This week, we’re featuring some exciting whale research.
Whales hold a special place in my heart. Last year’s whale season gave me so many incredible moments, but one that stands out is hearing whale songs while scuba diving.
Happy reading!
Ruth
“Acknowledging the good that you already have in your life is the foundation for all abundance.” ― Eckhart Tolle, A New Earth
Everyone in the community is invited to come on down to Coral Sea Marina at 7.30am this Sunday for the inaugural Whitsunday Epic Walk for DV. Bring your walking shoes, dress in your active wear, grab your kids and your dogs, and get your mind and your body moving for a good cause.
Organisers are encouraging participants to walk and talk as a group, creating a steady flow of conversation to start connecting about the important topic of domestic and family violence in our communities.
THIS SUNDAY, 7.30am, CORAL SEA MARINA GARDENS
EVERYONE WELCOME!
Over the past six months four local businesswomen-turned Dancing CEOs – Kate Purdie (Coral Sea Marina), Julie Telford (SeaLink Whitsundays), Candice Crossley (Whitsunday Transit) and Alice Harriott (Whitsunday Family Dental) – along with their team mentor, Katelyn Aslett-Collins (Taste Whitsundays) – have been building a movement to raise funds and awareness for Women’s Legal Service Queensland (WLSQ), an organisation that helps women and children escape domestic violence and reclaim their lives.
It was two former Dancing CEOs – Brendan Smith (Network Ten) and Brendon Mann (Epic Hair Designs) – who founded the Epic Walk for DV.
“The entire meaning behind this is gathering as a community,” Brendan Smith explained.
“We always say ‘it takes a village’ to either solve a problem or to raise awareness, and the Epic Walk for DV is about starting that conversation around domestic and family violence, getting rid of the stigma that’s attached to it – and of course raising as much money for WLSQ as we can,” he said.
Coral Sea Marina CEO, Kate Purdie, stressed the walk was epic in name rather than nature, and therefore open to all of the community regardless of fitness levels or age.
“This scenic walk along the Bicentennial Boardwalk will be two laps from the marina gardens to VMR and back; it’s a community event and we invite you to bring your friends, your workmates and your family along,” she said.
“The important thing is that rain or shine, we get as many people together as possible to unite in a visible show of support for women and children impacted by domestic violence.”
Participants are asked to sign up for the walk at www.epicwalkfordv.com.au - either as individuals or with friends, family, or colleagues as fundraising teams.
Kids and fur-kids all walk free, however the registration fee of $24 per adult covers a purple ‘Epic Walk’ T-shirt and a sausage sizzle cooked up by the Airlie Beach Rotary Club, with food supplied by Woolworths Cannonvale.
Walkers can muster in the marina gardens from 6.30am, with hot coffee available thanks to Chasing Te Ra. A pre-walk warm-up by Maggie Spark (Spark Life) will get everyone in the groove, while the kids (and big kids) receive their free bubble sticks courtesy of Big W.
The Whitsundays shone brightly at the Australian Tourism Awards which were held in Adelaide last weekend, with three local businesses receiving national accolades.
Raising the profile of the Whitsundays on a national stage, these local businesses are leading the way for local tourism and shining a spotlight on our region.
The illustrious awards ceremony at the Adelaide Convention Centre in South Australia celebrated four decades of tourism excellence while showcasing the industry's finest.
Tim Booth, CEO of Tourism Whitsundays says it was an incredible night for The Whitsundays:
"Winning Gold, Silver, and Bronze across different categories shows just how amazing our tourism offerings are. I couldn't be prouder of our operators and seeing BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort winning gold was definitely a highlight.
“These awards aren't just trophies on a shelf, they represent the heart and soul that our tourism businesses pour into creating unforgettable memories for visitors. It's this dedication that keeps people coming back to The Whitsundays time and again."
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins congratulated BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort, Pinnacles, and Ocean Rafting for doing the region proud.
"Tourism is the beating heart of The Whitsundays economy, and these national awards highlight the strength and resilience of our industry.
“Being recognised on such a prestigious platform showcases the outstanding work being done by our local businesses and sends a clear message – The Whitsundays is not just a beautiful place to visit, it’s a leader in Australian tourism."
This remarkable achievement across all three medal tiers reinforces The Whitsundays status as a premier tourism destination and highlights the exceptional experiences awaiting visitors to this stunning part of Queensland.
By Ruth Puddefoot
Sustainable Aviation Fuel has officially landed at Whitsunday Coast Airport. Mayor Ry Collins says it is “the perfect fit” for a region shaped by the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef and driven by a passion for protecting it.
Made from renewable resources like waste oils and crop residues, SAF cuts carbon emissions without compromising performance. This marks a major step towards cleaner, greener air travel in the Whitsundays.
Mayor Collins praised Virgin Australia and Viva Energy for their leadership in the aviation industry and for recognising the Whitsundays as an ideal location to showcase the benefits of SAF.
“It makes absolute sense that Virgin Australia would choose Whitsunday Coast Airport as the launch site for its first ongoing SAF-powered services,” Mayor Collins said.
“We are located in one of the most pristine and ecologically significant regions in the world, and as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, we have a responsibility to embrace innovative solutions that reduce our environmental footprint.
“The Whitsundays region has long been a leader in biodiversity initiatives, with strong community-driven efforts to protect its reefs, marine life, and natural landscapes.
"The adoption of SAF at Whitsunday Coast Airport is a significant step forward in the broader sustainability journey.
“Virgin Australia and Viva Energy should be commended for their commitment to driving positive change in aviation."
Whitsunday Coast Airport CEO Craig Turner emphasised the importance of maintaining a balance between economic growth and environmental responsibility.
“500,000 plus passengers transit through our airport each year, and with tourism as the backbone of our economy, we need to do everything possible to protect the very natural wonders that draw people here in the first place,” he said.
“The introduction of Sustainable Aviation Fuel is an important milestone in reducing aviation-related carbon emissions, and Whitsunday Coast Airport is proud to be at the forefront of this transition in Australia.”
Mr Turner credited the strong partnerships between Whitsunday Coast Airport, Virgin Australia, and Viva Energy as the driving force behind securing this national first for the region.
“This partnership between Virgin Australia, Viva Energy, and Whitsunday Coast Airport is a testament to the close relationships we have with our airline partners and stakeholders,” he said.
Virgin Australia has entered an agreement with Viva Energy to obtain Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) for its services departing from Whitsunday Coast Airport, marking a significant milestone as the first major Australian airline to use SAF on an ongoing basis at a commercial airport in the country.
Viva Energy’s General Manager for Aviation, Nick Adams, said the initiative would help establish the supply chains needed for SAF to become more widely available across regional Australia.
“It is clear that SAF is going to play a bigger role for commercial airlines in this country as they move towards a more sustainable future,” Mr Adams said.
“Through this collaboration – and drawing on the strengths of Viva Energy’s national distribution network and experience with high-quality fuels and aviation operations – we will be working with Virgin Australia to establish the supply chains that will be critical to the future of the aviation industry.”
Left to right: Amy Humphries WCA Acting Operations Manager, Shaun Cawood Manager Aviation, Tourism, Marine, Craig Turner Director Commercial Business, Daniel Dott (Virgin), David Mann (VIVA), Greg Atkin (VIVA), Robert Cavicchiolo (VIVA), Michael Nixon WCA. Photo supplied
Pinnacles Airlie beach is, as their name suggests, taking tourism to new pinnacles both in the Whitsundays and right across Australia. Last weekend they took their place on the podium among Australia's top tourism operators, proudly taking home the Silver medal in the “Self Contained Accommodation Category in the prestigious 2024 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards in Adelaide.
Since inception, these awards have stood as the pinnacle of excellence across Australia's vibrant and thriving tourism sector. Pinnacles Marketing Manager, Therese Moran, expressed her elation over the victory.
“We came home with the silver, we are over the moon and extremely proud to be recognised on a national level for the hard work and dedication of our small team, it's really all been about their commitment to delivering a wonderful holiday experience” said Ms Moran.
Managers of 14 years Susan Watson and Brent Jones expressed great gratitude towards their dedicated staff, loyal guests and the broader Whitsundays community as a whole.
Overlooking Airlie Beach and providing guests with lavish, fully self-contained apartments which have sweeping views across the Coral seas, Pinnacles continues its commitment to offering exceptional relaxation as the gateway to the iconic Whitsunday Islands and Great Barrier Reef.
The Pinnacles team also congratulates fellow operators honoured at the Australian Tourism Awards, showing their appreciation of the collective spirit which elevates tourism within the Whitsundays and across Australia as a whole.
Pinnacles Marketing Manager, Therese Moran, with fellow staff member, Lee, holding their award. Photo supplied
March 30 1925 was a significant date in the history of the Proserpine Ambulance. On this day, a meeting was held at which Superintendent of the Mackay Ambulance, Mr Culverhouse, announced that the Mackay Centre had decided to make Proserpine an Honorary Centre. This marked a turning point for the town and its district after years of efforts to establish a much-needed service.
Fourteen years earlier, an ambulance centre was established in Proserpine by Mr W Morse, Superintendent of the Mackay Ambulance Brigade towards the end of November 1911. The first meeting was held in December with President Mr W Waite; Vice-President Mr F H Cross; Secretary Mr J Nancarrow and Treasurer Mr R Taggart.
It was twelve months before the first annual meeting was held (February 1913). At this meeting, Mackay Centre announced that it was prepared to advance £60 for the erection of a casualty room and a place to keep the litter (a stretcher used to carry injured or sick patients).
All seemed to be progressing very well so the Mackay Centre was approached to supply a sulky with rubber tyres. However, by April 1913, the ambulance was defunct and funds were transferred to the Proserpine Hospital to be given to the ambulance should it become active again. This would be another twelve years!
When the honorary centre was finally announced, a provisional committee was formed with Mr W Worthington as Chairman and Mr T Treacy as honorary bearer. Local chemist, Mr Harkness, offered to lend his car for brigade transport. Tom Treacy had been a bearer in World War One and recognised the need for a first aid post in the town. He had an Ashford litter at the mill and was always available for those needing attention.
There was division in the town as to the need for an ambulance centre. Some were sceptical because of the previous failed attempts; some felt the town was already keeping a hospital with doctor and staff; others pointed out that with 100 cars in the district any one of the owners would be prepared to help and then there was the concern about an amateur instead of a doctor attending a case. There was also opposition to the committee with the suggestion that certain people wanted to make themselves important. But thanks to the efforts of Tom Treacy, the townspeople came to realise the need for an ambulance centre.
The committee worked hard and by May 30 there were 98 subscribers. The government was approached about purchasing land and a quarter of an acre belonging to the mill, facing Main Street was made available. In October, it was announced that a car, an Overland, would be purchased and a temporary shed erected to house it.
In April 1926, Mill Manager, Mr Murray Gibson, officially opened the building and the centre progressed despite opposition to committee members by some of the public. The volume of work eventually necessitated erection of a two-storey building in Chapman Street on land donated by Mr Jupp. This was opened in mid 1931.
The ambulance continued as a sub-centre until January 1934 when it was taken over by a local committee as a full centre responsible for the area from Mikoolu in the south to Longford Creek in the north and embraced all the islands and west to the Clarke Range. Over the years, committee members worked tirelessly to maintain this service in the district.
Fast forward to January 28 1998 and a new centre was opened on land adjacent to the building that had served the district for 66 years.
Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum
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