Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry has officially released the full program for the 2026 Whitsunday Business Conference, bringing together regional businesses and industry and government representatives for a day focused on practical ideas, future opportunities, and meaningful connections. The Chamber’s flagship event will be held from 8:30am to 3:00pm on Thursday 27 August 2026 across PCYC Whitsunday and Club Whitsunday in Airlie Beach. Chamber President Allan Milostic said the Conference continued to evolve as one of the Whitsundays’ leading business events because of its strong focus on practical relevance and regional collaboration. “This is about bringing together businesses, industries, educators, leaders, and emerging talent to have honest conversations about where the region is heading and how we build stronger businesses together,” he said. “We’re proud to showcase both local expertise and external perspectives that understand the realities of doing business in regional Queensland.” Chamber Vice President and Chair of the Conference Sub-Committee, Jannah Baker, said this year’s program had been intentionally designed to deliver practical value, stronger discussion, and real-world insights for businesses navigating change and growth. “The 2026 Conference is focused on practical conversations that matter to regional businesses right now – from workforce and leadership challenges through to AI, business growth, communication, and financial resilience,” Jannah said. “We’ve moved toward a more intensive program format this year, with deeper sessions, more interaction, and speakers who can share real experiences and practical strategies businesses can apply immediately.” The Conference will open with a plenary session featuring highlights from the Chamber’s Vision for the Whitsundays project, alongside a Rising Stars Panel showcasing local young employees, trainees, and apprentices discussing the future workforce and what they value from the ‘Whitsundays workplace’. Award-winning media and communications expert Ian Cohen from Cozalive Media will deliver the keynote presentation on building a brand that stands strong under pressure, drawing on decades of experience across major global sporting events, media, communications, and reputation management. Concurrent sessions throughout the morning will allow delegates to tailor their conference experience across a range of business-critical topics. Round One sessions include: Your Brand in Action – An interactive workshop with Ian Cohen exploring communication strategies, reputation management, and responding confidently under pressure. Future-Ready Business – A practical presentation with Rachel Hay (James Cook University) examining how businesses are using systems, automation, and AI to reduce administration and improve productivity, alongside research-backed workforce capability insights from JCU’s Professor Stephan Riek and Gabby Ryan. Connecting with Big Business – A panel discussion featuring the Australian Agave Project, Abbot Point Operations, and Bowen Rail Company, focused on how regional businesses can better connect with large-scale industry opportunities and own more of the value chain. Breakout sessions in Round Two include: The Future Workforce – An interactive workshop with Michele Tocci exploring psychological safety, team engagement, retention, and creating workplaces where employees feel confident to contribute. The Numbers That Matter – A practical financial session with Gus Walsgott (Rural Financial Counselling Service North Queensland) examining common business financial traps, profitability pressures, and cashflow improvement strategies. Your Brand in Action – A marketing-focused panel featuring Tolita Dukes (8 Seconds) and Melissa Ardern (The Creek Whitsundays) discussing visibility, AI, marketing systems, and what is currently working for regional businesses. The Conference will conclude with an interactive Long Lunch featuring business exhibitor showcases, activations and activities, networking opportunities, and major announcements. Event Details What: 2026 Whitsunday Business Conference When: 8:30am – 3:00pm, Thursday 27 August 2026 Where: PCYC Whitsunday and Club Whitsunday, Airlie Beach For sponsorship, exhibitor opportunities, or further information, contact the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry
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Year 12 student Ashlin Styles was recently selected as one of 93 young people aged 15–25 from 500 applicants to take part in the YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament. Ashlin is the student representative for the Whitsunday electorate. Ashlin attended a three-day camp where she was officially sworn into Parliament and began working within her committee, Justice, Police and Corrective Services (JPACS), including Child Safety and the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence. During the camp, Ashlin had the opportunity to meet various Members of Parliament. As part of the committee, students are developing a bill proposing a new standalone Act to provide better reintegration support for people leaving custody, addressing gaps in areas such as housing and ongoing support. Through this experience, Ashlin has gained a stronger understanding of how laws are created, along with skills in teamwork, leadership, and representing her community. She has also been placed on the refuting team for JPACS, where she will help review and propose amendments to the bill. Ashlin will return to State Parliament in September for a five-day parliamentary sitting and is excited to continue developing the bill whilst preparing for the final sessions. YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament is a program that grants people aged 16-25 the opportunity to represent the issues of young people in their electorate while learning about government processes in a mock parliament context. Photo supplied
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The written word will take centre stage in Cannonvale this September as the 2026 Whitsundays Writers Festival returns with a programme celebrating regional storytelling, creativity and the power of local voices. Opening the festival is a panel discussion sure to resonate with aspiring writers and avid readers alike: Is There a Book in You? The session will explore the realities of turning an idea into a published work, with three regional authors sharing their personal journeys through creativity, self-doubt and the publishing process. Festival Director Richard Evans said the event reflects the festival’s commitment to championing writers from across the Greater Whitsunday region. “This year’s festival is about backing our region’s writers, stories and creative identity,” he said. “The quality of writers living across the Greater Whitsunday region is exceptional, and this panel is designed to give audiences an honest and inspiring look at the writing and publishing journey.” The panel features Mackay-based fantasy author A. L. Tippett, thriller writer and former teacher Greg Bourke, and Whitsunday Life’s very own Rachael Smith, whose book Surviving Cancer: A Working Mum’s Guide documents her experience balancing cancer treatment, motherhood and work. Beyond the opening discussion, the one-day festival will include keynote presentations, literary award announcements and Stories by the Sea, a free community celebration featuring regional authors, live music, children’s activities, book swaps and more. What: Whitsundays Writers Festival When: Sunday 13th September 2026, 10.30am–4.30pm Where: Whitsunday Marine Club
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As cost-of-living pressures, housing insecurity and social isolation continue to impact more local families, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre Executive Officer Rebecca Woods says community connection has never been more important. “Connection is at the heart of everything we do,” Ms Woods said. “Watching people move from crisis toward hope and connection is a powerful reminder of why community-based support matters so much. Sometimes even small acts of support, kindness and human connection can have a lasting impact and while crisis support is important, we also know that strong communities are built through relationships, inclusion and opportunities for people to feel they belong.” One story that has remained with the team involved a local family who first became connected with the Centre through volunteering opportunities. What began as a chance for the eldest son to build employment skills and confidence gradually evolved into something much greater, with both his sister and mother later becoming involved as well. Ms Woods said the experience highlighted the powerful ripple effect community support can have, with the family gaining confidence, social connection, improved wellbeing and a renewed sense of purpose through their involvement with the Centre. “Stories like this remind us that the impact of community support extends far beyond immediate assistance,” she said. “Sometimes the greatest outcomes come from creating spaces where people feel valued, included and empowered to grow.” Across the Whitsundays Shire, many individuals and families are struggling to keep pace with rising living costs, including rent, groceries, fuel, electricity and insurance, while housing insecurity and a shortage of affordable rentals continue to place enormous pressure on households. Accessing support services can also prove challenging in regional communities, particularly for those experiencing social isolation, limited transport options, mental health concerns, family stress or domestic and family violence. Ms Woods said demand for support services had increased significantly in recent years, particularly following the impacts of COVID-19, ongoing housing shortages and rising living costs. “We are seeing more people seeking emergency relief, financial assistance, referrals, advocacy and help navigating increasingly complex systems,” she explained. Importantly, Ms Woods said the demographic of people seeking assistance had also broadened, with more working individuals and families now requiring support despite being employed. “Housing stress is one of the most consistent issues we encounter,” she said. “Even people with stable incomes are finding it difficult to secure affordable accommodation, and that uncertainty affects every aspect of wellbeing — from mental health to family relationships and employment stability.” Despite the growing challenges, Ms Woods said the Centre continued to focus not only on crisis support, but also on fostering connection, inclusion and belonging throughout the wider community. “The Neighbourhood Centre provides welcoming spaces where people can come together, participate in programs, share experiences, build friendships and access support without stigma,” she said. “Whether it’s through workshops, volunteer opportunities, social groups or even informal conversations over a cup of tea, these moments of connection help reduce isolation and strengthen community wellbeing.” Beyond direct support services, the Centre also hosts a broad range of outreach programs, allied health services, support groups and community-led activities aimed at improving local access to support while encouraging social connection. These include employment support services, counselling programs, health and wellbeing initiatives, volunteer Justice of the Peace services, fitness and social activities for seniors, children’s programs, creative groups and community gatherings. Ms Woods said providing a central and welcoming community hub helped ensure residents could access important services locally, particularly those experiencing financial hardship, disability, transport limitations or social isolation. “For many people, simply knowing there is a safe and supportive place they can walk into makes a real difference,” she said. Looking to the future, Ms Woods said her hope was for a Whitsundays community where everyone feels supported, connected and able to access help when challenges arise. “We want to see greater housing stability, stronger mental health supports, increased opportunities for young people and families, and a community where no one feels alone during difficult times,” she said. Ms Woods encouraged locals to support the work of the Neighbourhood Centre through volunteering, donations, attending community events, supporting local initiatives or simply checking in on neighbours who may be struggling. “Community wellbeing is everyone’s responsibility, and some of the most meaningful change happens when people come together with kindness, understanding and a willingness to help,” she said. “At the same time, there is a strong sense of resilience within our community. People genuinely care about one another, and we continue to see neighbours helping neighbours during difficult times.” CAPTION: Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre Executive Officer Rebecca Woods says connection, inclusion and community support are more important than ever as local families continue to navigate rising living costs and housing pressures. Photo source: Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre
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This year’s Mayor’s Charity Ball will be taking place at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on the 26th July 2025.
We are proud to announce that the masquerade themed ball will be raising fund for three incredible charities – BMA CQ Rescue, the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, and the Bowen Community Centre.
Tickets go on sale on Monday, 21 April 2025 – don’t miss your chance to be part of this important cause!
For more information, head to Council’s website.
As ANZAC Day approaches, preparations are well underway for a touching local tradition that has quietly grown into a cherished community event.
Now in its tenth year, the annual flag ceremony at Proserpine Cemetery pays tribute to nearly 400 service men and women laid to rest there.
Organised by Lyn Burke, the event sees flags placed beside the graves of veterans, including Boer War veterans, Gallipoli survivors, Rats of Tobruk, Prisoners of War, Commandos & many more men & women who served this country.
It’s a gesture of respect and remembrance that organiser Lynn Burke says began as a labour of love and has become something much larger, with growing support from the community.
Lynn said it’s been great to see the youth come along to the flag ceremonies and they will become the future of this event.
Each row of graves will have a bag containing a flag, maps and brief stories about the service personnel, giving community members an understanding of the lives and sacrifices being honoured and who they are erecting a flag beside.
Guests and volunteers will be spread throughout both the old and new cemetery sections during the morning, placing flags and quietly acknowledging the stories tied to each grave. This year a flag will be placed on World War 2 soldier Arthur Read for the first time.
The flags will remain in place for about two weeks, allowing visitors to wander through the site and pay their respects.
What: 400 Flags For Cemetery
Where: Proserpine Cemetery Old and New
When: Monday 21st April 9am (Easter Monday)
Federal Member For Dawson Andrew Willcox MP with members of the Whitsunday Old Iron Restorers Club at the flag laying ceremony at Proserpine Cemetery last year. Photo supplied
The Whitsundays region recently welcomed the R U OK? Conversation Convoy, with events held in both Airlie Beach and Bowen, bringing locals together in a show of support, connection, and awareness for suicide prevention.
On April 6th, the convoy made its stop at the Coral Sea Marina carpark in Airlie Beach, where the community gathered on the hill to enjoy an afternoon of conversation, learning, and reflection. With a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, attendees explored the caravan display, participated in games, and accessed free mental health resources. Many shared a chat over a game of checkers or simply watched the sunset together with a sausage in hand from the free BBQ.
Matt Stokes from the WSPN reflected saying, “Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network were honoured to host the R U OK? Conversation Convoy in Airlie and Bowen. Their message aligns with ours, essentially looking out for each other, and asking the question, R U OK?” He also praised the visiting convoy adding, “The R U OK? team were a fantastic group and we had many great conversations with the public.”
The turnout and energy across both locations showed the power of community when it comes to supporting mental health. Whether people came to learn how to support someone else or to seek help for themselves, the convoy provided a safe, inclusive space for hope, help, and healing. Remember, you can ask Are You Ok? Any Day.
Nicky and Rob from WSPN handing out pamphlets. Photo supplied: Matt Stokes of WSPN.
Bob, Mel, Kezza, Donna, and Nicky from WSPN holding up the R U OK? letters. Photo supplied: Matt Stokes of WSPN.
Last week, a local mother experienced a heart-warming reminder of the power of kindness at Silly Solly’s. She had gone in for sparklers for a friend's cake, a simple errand that quickly turned into a moment of connection.
While waiting at the counter, she noticed a woman drop a spray bottle. Without a second thought, the mother picked it up for her – just a small, polite gesture.
As she was about to leave, the woman approached her with a gift.
And while it caught her by surprise, the mother politely declined, but the woman insisted, and said, “You deserve to treat yourself.”
This unexpected act of generosity left a lasting impression on the mother. It wasn’t the gift that moved her most, but the kindness and sincerity behind it.
“There are some amazing people out there and you never truly know what someone else is going through,” the mother reflected.
“An act of kindness goes a long way.”
Welcome to Week One of the school holidays – how’s everyone holding up? Still got snacks in the pantry? Still friends with your children? A moment of silence for the grandparents who thought retirement meant rest, only to be ambushed with an entire fortnight of babysitting duty. You are the true heroes of the holiday hustle.
If you’re a Northern Beaches local, you’ll know school holidays are in full swing by one tell-tale sign: the roads are EMPTY. Suddenly that usual 55-minute crawl into town turns into a breezy 10-minute coast.
Of course, if you’re still working, navigating childcare is like one of those twisted escape room puzzles — except there’s glitter glue involved and someone’s yelling “I’m bored!” every four minutes. Thankfully, we’ve got some solid survival tools. Exhibit A: Cheeky Little Monkeys. Yes, it’s a play centre, but also, it has a creche service where you can drop and go for three blissful hours. Whether you use that time to do groceries, get a coffee, or finally vacuum under the couch cushions without tripping over a scooter, we won’t judge. I personally use it to clean the house. In peace. Sweet, sweet peace.
And if you’re dreaming of a few kid-free hours with your significant other, they even run monthly date nights – in fact, there’s one on tonight. If you're reading this early enough, maybe give them a ring and see if there's still a spot. Freedom may be only a phone call away.
For those looking to make the most of the Easter break, pages 26-27 are packed with family-friendly inspo. Next week’s edition will be out a day early – Thursday 17th – and we’ll have even more Easter goodness for your calendar.
In the meantime, drive safely if you’re heading off for the long weekend. Watch out for caravans, road rage, and rogue chocolate eggs melted into the car seat. And if you're taking a dip — at the lagoon or up in beautiful Eungella — keep an eye on the little ones.
You’ve got this, parents. Sort of.
Amanda
A long-held dream to give koalas a dedicated space to heal has officially become a reality, with the opening of the Fauna Rescue Whitsundays Koala and Wildlife Rehabilitation Facility near Mount Jukes.
The facility, located on the property of Alison and Chris Pighills, has been purpose-built to support the recovery of injured and orphaned wildlife across Central Queensland, with koalas now set to benefit from a safe and natural rehabilitation space.
The site will include a fully enclosed 40m x 40m bushland area planted with ironbark and Queensland blue gum trees to help koalas relearn how to climb, forage and grow strong before being released.
A treatment room, isolation area and outdoor enclosures have also been established, with Chris Pighills behind the construction of much of the infrastructure.
Mayor Greg Williamson was on hand for the official opening and praised the Pighills and the Fauna Rescue Whitsundays group for their vision and dedication.
“Isn’t this sensational for our region,” Cr Williamson said.
“Looking after our wildlife is part of a whole community.”
“Along with the Fauna Rescue Whitsundays group, Alison’s passion for protecting wildlife is inspirational. It takes a vision and a drive, we’re exceptionally proud of what you have built here.”
“Without the generosity of the community, everyone who has contributed to this wonderful facility for our wildlife, I think you should be very proud. This facility will do a lot of great work for our region, thanks to the wildlife rescue volunteers.”
The sanctuary will operate as a key recovery site for a large catchment area, with animals transported from as far south as Yeppoon, west to Clermont and north to Bowen.
“This facility will take in wildlife from a very large coverage area,” Cr Williamson said.
“With a 24-hour hotline, it takes a lot of passion and a lot of drive to make this work.”
The rehabilitation centre also strengthens local capacity to respond quickly to wildlife emergencies, with enclosures tailored to the specific needs of each species and a peaceful bush setting ideal for rehabilitation and recovery.
Alison, who serves as treasurer and koala coordinator for Fauna Rescue Whitsundays, has been caring for wildlife on her property for almost a decade.
From possums and wallabies to bats and koalas, her efforts have already seen hundreds of animals returned to the wild.
Now the sanctuary marks a new chapter—not just for Alison and Chris, but for every injured koala that will soon be climbing toward a second chance.
Supporters, volunteers, and community leaders joined Alison Pighills to celebrate the opening of the Fauna Rescue Whitsundays Koala and Wildlife Rehabilitation Facility, including Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson, Yuibera Traditional Owner Philip Kemp, and members of local organisations who helped bring the project to life. Photo credit: Amanda Wright
Yuibera Traditional Owner Philip Kemp (right) and Mayor Greg Williamson helped mark the official opening of the Fauna Rescue Whitsundays Koala and Wildlife Rehabilitation Facility with a symbolic tree planting
A 22-year-old Ooralea
man has tragically died
after crashing into a
light pole on Archibald Street,
Paget, last Monday, April 7.
At around 12:40pm, the driver
of a classic XY blue Ford Falcon
lost control of the vehicle and
struck a light pole. The driver,
who was the sole occupant,
was immediately transported to
Mackay Base Hospital. Despite
efforts to save him, the young
man succumbed to his injuries.
The Forensic Crash Unit is continuing
its investigations into
the cause of the crash.
Authorities are urging anyone
with information, or who may
have captured dashcam footage
of the incident, to come forward.
Police are asking the public to
assist in their investigation and
provide any relevant details that
could help determine the circumstances
surrounding this
tragic accident.
Investigations remain ongoing
A partnership between two local organisations has resulted in countless happy faces among the remote villages of Papua New Guinea.
FMS Group, the major sponsor of Mackay skateboarding event Rumble on the Reef, travelled to PNG last week to hand-deliver skateboards, helmets and safety gear to Skate PNG – a small community group located in Taurama.
The delivery was part of the community engagement program within FMS Group, focused on giving back to the people who reside in mining regions. It was also thanks to a collaboration between The Rumble, FMS Group, TSG and Postal Skateboards to develop a world first Pacifika Cup, held at the 2024 Rumble on the Reef event in Mackay.
The winner of this competition was Josh O’Loughlin who represented PNG and donated his prize to the small skateboarding community – Skate PNG – who deliver development and coaching programs in Port Moresby.
FMS Group PNG Area Manager John Wilshere, who is also the former Captain of Rugby League Team PNG Hunters, said it was a privilege to support the PNG community in this way.
“Working in this country, it is important that we engage with and support the local community and this delivery of skateboarding equipment will have an immense impact on the children here who are learning to skate with limited resources,” Mr Wilshere said.
The Rumble Head of Partnerships Donny Fraser said it was a monumental moment for his team.
“This has put our entire crew on an emotional high,” he said.
“Thanks to FMS Group and their team for supporting the Mackay event for years, it has been a backbone of developing skateboarding in the Pacific, and it’s a privilege to work with them to be able to support PNG and developing skateboarding in our neighbouring countries.”
With operations across Australia and Papua New Guinea, FMS Group provides a wide range of services across all industries including mining, construction, marine and renewables. Their partnership with Rumble on the Reef began in 2023 and has produced remarkable opportunities for the Mackay skateboarding community.
Rumble on the Reef 2025 will be held at the Mackay Sugarbowl Skate Park on September 25 to 27.
FMS Group PNG Area Manager and former PNG Hunters captain John Wilshere shares a special moment with young locals in Taurama, after delivering skateboards and safety gear to support the growing skateboarding community. Photos supplied
Rainee Shepperson, FMS Group Marketing and Communications Manager, shares a moment with a local child in Taurama
Mackay Community Foundation (MCF) is accepting applications for its 2025 Grant Program, offering not-for-profit organisations the opportunity to access a share of up to $207,000 in funding for impactful community projects. But hurry, applications close next week on 15th April.
MCF is seeking applications for one-off projects that aid, relieve, or support individuals in distress in Mackay and surrounding districts.
While most grants are expected to range between $15,000 and $20,000, larger-scale projects are also considered.
MCF Board Chair Frances Easton highlighted the significance of this funding opportunity.
"MCF is committed to strengthening our local region by supporting projects that make a meaningful difference,” Ms Easton said.
“To date, we have awarded a total of $1,764,830 in community grants, empowering organisations to provide essential services and programs for those in need.
“We encourage local not-for-profits to apply and take advantage of this opportunity to create lasting positive change."
Ms Easton also encouraged those organisations applying to be very thorough in their submission.
"We want to ensure that every grant is allocated where it will have the most impact. To do this, we need applicants to provide as much detail as possible about their organisation and project.
“The more comprehensive your application, the better we can assess its potential to support and sustain our region’s most needy."
Eligible projects must build social capital, capacity, and/or resilience within the Mackay community.
It must also deliver economic benefits to the community, support local suppliers and be completed by June 2026.
The 2023/2024 Grant Program saw a wide range of projects funded, including a social support group for new mums, an inclusive arts program, an increase in beach access for youth and adults with a disability, an education program for children with cancer and the Australian Street Aid Project Medical Clinic.
Interested organisations should visit www.mackaycommunityfoundation.com for an application form – applications close 5pm 15 April 2025.
The 2024 Mackay Community Foundation grant recipients. Photo supplied
MIDGE POINT residents are now enjoying a renewed and refreshed water supply following the completion of significant works to water infrastructure in the region.
The most recent and final stage of improvements involved extensive cleaning of watermains suppling the Midge Point township, which required a planned water outage over several days.
Mayor Greg Williamson said council truly appreciated the patience of the community during this most recent phase of the project.
“While we tried to lessen the impact of the water outage by supplying bottled drinking water and restoring water at night for cleaning purposes, we recognise that this still required a level of planning and preparation for residents,” Mayor Williamson said.
“We understand this was inconvenient and we thank everyone for their patience,” he said.
“All planned improvements to the network have been completed but, as always, our water network teams are on standby to address any issues should they be raised.
“We often take quality drinking water for granted, but this project has showed just how much goes into getting water from its natural source to our homes and workplaces, and ensuring it’s of top quality once it gets there.”
Midge Point Tavern owner Neil Brooks said he was relieved to see the improvement in water quality.
“We are a proud community out here, and having our water issues resolved means that we can now be confident of our township’s future and potential growth.,” Mr Brooks said.
“It’s been a journey and together with council we’re glad we’ve been able to find a long-term solution.”
Photo caption: Midge Point Tavern publican Neil Brooks is pleased to see his business and township now has access to improved water quality. Photo supplied: Mackay Regional Council
The much-anticipated Webberley-Paradise streets intersection upgrade is now expected to be completed in about three weeks.
This major project, being undertaken to improve traffic and pedestrian safety, has been delayed by the recent ongoing wet weather and contractor availability.
However, it is now planned to be complete and Webberley Street re-opened to traffic in early May. Temporary traffic arrangements, including in Paradise Street, will also return to normal.
Since construction resumed in January, council has completed all road surfacing works, constructed all traffic islands and started line marking work.
Due to wet weather and contractor availability, there are still works to be completed, including line marking, final landscaping and street lighting.
Until then, temporary traffic arrangements in the area remain in place.
Please slow down and take care when driving through this work area and obey all signage.
Photo supplied: Mackay Regional Council
Mackay is set to indulge in a delightful new business venture that combines homemade cookies, locally roasted coffee, and a heartwarming story of friendship and collaboration. Laffo’s Cookies will officially open its doors at Caneland Central, outside Target, today (Friday 11 April), offering the community a perfect blend of sweet treats and exceptional coffee for both everyday enjoyment and unique gifting.
The brainchild of lifelong friends Mark (Laffo) Laffin and Christeen McKeever, Laffo’s Cookies is the culmination of a shared passion for food, baking, and community. Mark, who secured the lease for the purple van outside Target, invited Christine to bring her lifelong dream to life by sharing her incredible homemade, artisan cookies with Mackay.
Christeen, a retired nurse and lifelong baking enthusiast, has always dreamed of sharing her creations with the world. After running a small shop at The Leap a few years ago while juggling her nursing career, she is now fully embracing her passion for baking.
“I’ve always wanted to bake for others, and now, with Laffos’s Cookies, I can finally do that on a larger scale,” Christeen said.
To complement her cookies, Christeen sought out a local coffee partner who shared her values and passion for quality. She found the perfect match in Dan Shaw from Primal Coffee, a Mackay-based coffee roaster and barista trainer.
“Dan’s passion for coffee and his commitment to the Mackay community align perfectly with my vision for Laffo's Cookies,” Christeen added.
Together, they aim to create a unique experience that combines Christeen’s signature cookie recipes with Dan’s expertly roasted coffee.
The business also plans to introduce custom cookie gift boxes, which can be purchased online and delivered the same day through services like Menulog.
“We want to build a brand that people trust and love,” Christeen explained.
“Our cookie boxes will be the perfect solution for anyone looking for a unique gift or a way to brighten someone’s day.”
Mark and Christine are thrilled to bring Laffos Cookies to Mackay and are excited about the future.
“This is more than just a business—it’s a celebration of friendship, passion, and community,” Mark said.
“We can’t wait to share our love for food and baking with everyone in Mackay.”
Laffos’s Cookies invites the community to join them for their grand opening TODAY (Friday 11 April) at Caneland Central. Follow their journey on social media for updates, special offers, and more.
L-R: Nicole Laffin, Mark Laffin, Christeen McKeever and Dan Shaw are all smiles ahead of Laffo’s Cookies' grand opening at Caneland Central – blending friendship, freshly baked cookies, and locally roasted coffee into one sweet new venture. Photos supplied
As the Federal Election in May approaches, the Greater Whitsunday region is setting the stage for a brighter future by unveiling its comprehensive election priorities, guided by the theme "Greater Possibilities."
Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) Chief Executive Officer Ms Kylie Porter said this strategic vision aims to drive economic growth, enhance community well-being, and ensure sustainable development across the region.
“The entire Greater Whitsunday region makes an oversized contribution to the Australian economy, with a total economic output of $75B annually,” said Ms Porter.
“Our region has three key asks of investing in the basics, driving economic productivity and support local projects to underpin our communities.”
Ms Porter said the Greater Whitsunday region is calling for a fairer funding model for local governments. Currently, councils receive just 0.5 per cent of total taxation revenue. By increasing this to 1 per cent, local governments can continue to provide essential services that make our communities liveable.
“Additionally, significant investment in critical road networks and digital infrastructure is essential to prevent economic losses and improve productivity.”
Ms Porter said the region is poised to boost economic productivity through several key projects.
“The Great Barrier Reef Arena Stage 2 will enhance local sporting and major events facilities, supporting inclusivity and driving tourism. This investment is particularly timely as Harrup Park is the cricket venue for the Olympic and Paralympic Games Queensland 2032.
“Investment in the Whitsunday Marine Discovery Centre will also capitalise on the tourism opportunity coming from Olympic sailing in the Whitsundays.”
The marine centre will also create educational and tourism opportunities related to the Great Barrier Reef, further stimulating the local economy Ms Porter said.
“Supporting local projects is crucial for the region's growth and sustainability.
“The Northern Beaches Road Network Improvements project will address congestion and improve productivity by getting residents out of cars and into workplaces more efficiently.”
Ms Porter said the Isaac Royalties Road Package aims to ensure safe roads for the Isaac region, supporting the coal industry and the broader economy.
“We are calling on all candidates to clearly articulate their commitment to funding priorities and driving greater possibilities cross the entire Greater Whitsunday region in the next term of government.”
Greater Whitsunday Alliance is the region’s peak, independent economic development body committed to making the Mackay, Isaac, Whitsunday region strong for generations.
"I’ve fought hard for our region, securing $7 billion for infrastructure and key projects.
"From major road upgrades like the Walkerston Bypass and Sarina Northern Access, to $11 million for local community groups, I’ve delivered real results. Recently, I committed $3 million to expand the Walkerston Tigers clubhouse and $200,000 to rebuild the shed lost to fire, supporting grassroots sport and our future stars.
"But there’s more to do. I want Capricornia to thrive with strong industries, like mining, agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing which drive local jobs and small business growth. I will always fight for better infrastructure and stronger regional services to keep our communities thriving.
"Under Labor, regional Australia has been neglected. They’ve ripped funding from our towns to prop up multi-billion-dollar inner-city projects, while the cost of living has soared. Rent is up 18 per cent, groceries are up 30 per cent and power over 30 per cent higher.
"Home ownership is slipping out of reach Australians. An LNP government will make home ownership achievable by cutting migration, banning foreign investors from buying existing homes and funding essential infrastructure for housing.
"Labor axed critical Bruce Highway funding, forcing me to fight to get $7.2 billion restored. Yet, they’ll only spend $432 million over three years. This has delayed vital road safety improvements.
"A Coalition Government will invest in regional health by bolstering the workforce through incentives to attract and retain doctors and nurses. We will also ensure more doctors become GPs in regional areas by providing the support they need to train and work locally. support local businesses, and Capricornia deserves a strong voice in Canberra.
"I’ve delivered before, and with an elected LNP Government, I’ll keep fighting to get our region, and Australia, back on track."
"I’m from Rockhampton and have lived in Regional Queensland my whole life.
"I studied at Central Queensland University and became politically active with the Greens after overcoming a life-threatening illness, which taught me the value of our universal health care system and the incredible work done by our local health care workers.
"I’m running for Capricornia because the major parties have failed to address the cost of living, housing and climate crisis, and we need a bold new approach.
"Too many people in our community are doing it tough and struggling to pay the bills. Our schools are underfunded and our hospitals are understaffed. Meanwhile, the major parties continue to give handouts and subsidies to big corporations, one in three of whom pay no tax.
"As a Greens candidate, I’m campaigning to make big corporations pay their fair share so we can fund things like dental and mental health into Medicare, free GP visits, and fully funded public schools and hospitals.
"We will cap rent increases, deliver cheaper mortgages for people, and make the price gouging at our supermarkets illegal. We will take strong action on climate change through a massive investment in publicly owned renewable projects, which will include a just transition for our workers in the coal and gas industry by creating better and safer jobs in clean energy.
"The Greens don’t take corporate donations, which means we will fight for the community, not corporations.
"A vote for the Greens in the Lower House and Senate at this election is a vote to keep Dutton out and get Labor to act on our cost of living, housing and climate crisis.”
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This publication attempted to contact the candidates from Family First, One Nation, and Labor however received no response prior to print deadline. __
“Having clocked up over 150,000km on the Bruce in my three years as the Federal Member for Dawson, I’m a passionate advocate for a better National Highway.
“I travel this highway every day, visiting and spending time with my constituents from Mackay to Townsville, and all the communities in between.
“I know the highway well, riding the potholes and the bumps. I know the risks travellers face, the delays they experience, and the frustrations they feel when the roads are cut.
“Not a day goes by without someone mentioning to me the poor conditions regional Australians face on this notorious stretch of road.
“Labor has neglected our highway, and in three years, it has only gotten worse. More needs to be done, and it cannot wait. I’ve been a fierce campaigner for the vital upgrades urgently needed for the Bruce Highway.
“My 'Back Our Bruce' campaign is something I'm incredibly proud to champion in Canberra, and it's a cause I will continue to fight for relentlessly.
“By securing another term on May 3rd, I can continue to drive action and fight for the necessary improvements. My Coalition colleagues support my voice for ‘Our Bruce Highway’.
“They know an improved Bruce is about improving safety, getting people moving, and that the Bruce is a key economic cog for not only North Queensland but Australia.
“A Coalition government will back our North Queensland road users and get to work on necessary upgrades. "Backing Our Bruce" means backing our farmers in getting produce to market, backing our miners getting to and from work, backing our Mums and Dads getting the kids to sport, and backing our truckies who ship our freight at all hours.
"With around a quarter of the Bruce Highway running through Dawson, getting real action is one of my most important priorities for the region.
"I want to see a better Bruce, a safer Bruce, a more reliable Bruce.
“Backing me is Backing Our Bruce!
"To join me in “Backing Our Bruce,” sign my petition and help get the wheels in motion:
www.andrewwillcox.com.au/back-our-bruce."
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