Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Photo source: Whitsunday Anglican School (Facebook) Whitsunday Anglican School’s Kindy to Year 2 students enjoyed a fun-filled Athletics Carnival, with young athletes taking part in running, jumping and throwing events while showing plenty of enthusiasm, determination and House spirit. Supported by Senior School volunteers, the day celebrated participation, encouragement and the strong sense of community across the school. See more photos here: www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/little-legs-big-spirit-at-whitsunday-anglican-schools-kindy-carnival
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Leading Mackay real estate business REMAX Select has announced the appointment of highly respected business professional Samantha Self as General Manager. The appointment is set to further strengthen the agency's high-performing team across the Mackay region, with Principal Nikita Kinnane describing Ms Self's arrival as an exciting step forward for the business. “We are heading in a really exciting direction with our business, and I cannot be more excited to have Samantha join our leadership team to build on that momentum,” Ms Kinnane said. Ms Kinnane said the recruitment process was focused on finding a leader whose values aligned with those of the business, it was Ms Self's shared commitment to those values and vision that made her the ideal candidate. "Samantha will play an important role in shaping the future REMAX Select, bringing exceptional experience in property, management and leadership to help drive growth and innovation, and this will flow into enhancing every aspect of our business. "Importantly, Samantha shares our core values and commitment to putting Mackay first, and we share the same drive to really make impactful change, bring big city ideas and execute them in our own country girl way.” It was the core values of respect, integrity, collaboration, excellence and trust that Ms Self aligned with, sharing her goal to continue to build on the trust and integrity the agency has established in Mackay, while supporting the continued growth and development of both the team and business. “I’m excited to take on the role of general manager and work alongside Nikita and the entire team at REMAX Select,” Ms Self said. “REMAX Select has a strong team with exceptional talent which is highly respected throughout the community and I’m excited to be part of its continued success.” Ms Self steps into the role after eight years as retail manager of the largest shopping centre in northern Australia. During that time, she was the key driver of building positive, collaborative relationships with retailers, creating an environment where retailers were genuine partners in success. Having led sales performance analysis and market insight initiatives, Ms Self said she looks forward to applying her knowledge and experience to support the continued success of the REMAX Select team. “I am dedicated to empowering our team members through training and development opportunities, ensuring they have the tools they need to succeed,” she said. “My goal is to continue to foster the team’s culture of professionalism, responsiveness and customer-first approach and I look forward to collaborating with our talented agents and staff to create a dynamic and successful environment here at REMAX Select.” REMAX Select is an award-winning real estate business, recently recognised as the 2025 REIQ Medium Agency of the Year and finalist at the 2026 REIA National Awards for Excellence. The office consistently ranks in the National Top 10 Offices in the REMAX Australia network, recognised as the #3 individual office for commissions and transactions at the REMAX Australia Annual Awards 2025 earlier this year, where they were also named a finalist for the network’s community service award and special achievement in marketing for an office award. REMAX Select is located at 133B Victoria Street, Mackay. Contact (07)4829 4612 or visit remax.com.au/select/ for an award winning real estate experience. Newly appointed General Manager, Samantha Self (Left) with REMAX Select Principal Nikita Kinnane (Right).
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In 2000, Peter and Denise Phillips laid the foundation for what would become one of Mackay’s most recognisable holistic, all in one property, insurance and financial services ecosystem. Starting as a Mortgage Choice franchise, Gardian was built on a commitment to helping people make confident financial decisions with local people in the know! Over the decades, that foundation has steadily evolved. Today, Gardian encompasses a wide range of services, including all manner of finance, general and business insurance, financial planning, real estate sales, property management, and commercial sales, management and leasing. What began as a single offering has grown into an integrated business model serving individuals, families, businesses, and community across the region. Now, the organisation enters its next chapter. After many years at the helm with her late husband Peter, Denise Phillips will step down from her role as Managing Director. Her leadership has been central to Gardian’s growth — not just in size, but in culture, reputation, and its connection to the local community. Taking over the role is Ben Phillips, Owner/Director and Head of Gardian Finance. Having been closely involved in all aspects of the business and its clients, he brings both continuity and a forward-looking perspective to the position. Leadership transitions often mark defining moments for organisations. In this case, the change represents both the continuation of a strong legacy and the opportunity to build on it. The evolution of Gardian — from a small franchise to a diversified advisory group — reflects the importance of adaptability, strategic growth, and staying aligned to core values to the community. For the Mackay business community, this transition highlights the strength of long-term vision and succession planning, particularly within locally grown enterprises. It also reinforces the impact that leadership grounded in community and relationships can have over time. As Gardian moves forward under new leadership, it does so with deep roots, a clear purpose, and a platform built for continued growth.
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I don’t know about you, but I find morning TV hosts incredibly annoying. I rarely get to see them, with their contrived laughter, over-the-top friendliness, stupid nicknames for each other, make-up and perfect hair cuts. But sometimes, if there has been some event that might interest me, or if I’m curious about what’s going on, I might flick on the TV and see what’s happening as I’m getting ready for work. I immediately regret it and start flicking channels to try to find someone bearable. It’s a challenge that usually lasts a couple of minutes before I turn the TV off and do something much more pleasant, like go to work. I did like Karl Stefanovic but he has been flicked, apparently because his employer didn’t like his podcast guests. There seemed something real about Karl but he was an island in a sea of fakery so there’s no point in me turning on Channel 9 anymore. There’s an Irish journalist/host on ABC TV, Catherine Murphy, who I also like. She’s funny and real and seems to want to stick to simply presenting a story in her slightly quirky style without imposing an agenda. But that’s about it for me. One thing the morning shows have an abundance of is “experts”. Whatever the drama that’s emerged, there’s an expert to explain it to you, pull it apart and tell you how concerned you should be. The expert needs to do it in about 17 seconds because everyone is going to get bored soon and we’ve got an ad break coming up. The more dramatic the event and the more it impacts the loyal viewers, the more vital it is that an expert is on hand. The current disaster of note it a neat combo: the economy/inflation/interest rates/housing downturn. This is the type of news drama you want when you’re planning the show because it affects the viewers, hits their hip pockets. But experts are everywhere in the media on this one, not just the morning shows. They’re out there giving their views on interest rates (some say they will go up, others say they will go down), the economy (some say it will be okay, others say we are headed for a recession), inflation (some say it will get worse and others say it will ease). Part of this blockbuster, of course, is house prices. Some experts say prices will drop in big cities like Sydney and Brisbane. Others say they will drop everywhere. Some say there will be a small, temporary drop but things will soon start going up again because there is a lack of housing supply across the nation. One group of experts that are worth paying attention to are the valuers from Herron Todd White, who put out their monthly property clock, which is a snapshot of how they see particular markets. The position on the clock face a particular city is located (we’re talking analogue here kids, not digital) tells you where it sits in the market. Twelve o’clock is top of the market, 3 o’clock is a falling market, 6 o’clock is the bottom of the market, 9 o’clock is a rising market. Things can change quickly and there a times a property can go from falling market to bottom of the market and up to rising market very quickly. HTW’s June clock would have been a challenge for them because tax changes and other events had happened but their longer-term impacts are unclear. They had Bundaberg and Toowoomba at the top of the market, Sydney at 2 o’clock and starting to decline, The Whitsundays, Gladstone and Sunshine Coast approaching the top of the market and Mackay, along with Rocky, Townsville and Cairns, in a rising market. Most agents in Mackay will tell you there has been a change but there is still activity, investors are still engaged and properties are selling. Most are being alert, not alarmed.
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The to-do list of a business owner never sleeps, it’s a daily juggle of customer demands, staff management, competitive pressure, and those inevitable fires that need putting out. People are so busy working in the business, they often neglect to allocate time to work on their business. Well-planned marketing often gets pushed aside, not for lack of importance, but because the day runs out before the list does. When it's left on the backburner, growth stalls and great opportunities are missed.
Jody Euler, owner of Mackay’s first full service and longest standing creative agency, redhotblue, has seen it all and knows exactly how to give businesses back what they need most: time.
Many business owners wear multiple hats. Whether it’s to stay in control, manage costs, or because they’re struggling to find the right team. Whatever the reason, it often leads to a scattered approach, long hours, and a to-do list that rivals Santa’s on Christmas Eve.
One of the most common pitfalls I see is a lack of focus and consistency in branding and marketing. Jumping from one idea to the next wastes time, dilutes the brand, and creates confusion in the marketplace.
Too often, businesses underestimate marketing, until the lack of brand presence hits hard. It usually happens at a critical point: a competitor enters the market, sales targets are missed, or market share begins to slip away.
In response, there’s a rush to act, usually with whatever marketing deal or trend is most readily available. The result is generic messaging, uninspiring creative, and a muddled brand. In the long run, this quick fix costs more time than it saves, damaging credibility, relevance, and customer connection.
One of the most valuable lessons in business is recognising your strengths and knowing when to bring in experts for the areas that aren’t in your wheelhouse. Whether it's finances, HR, marketing, or digital trends, surrounding yourself with the right professionals can be a game-changer. By stepping away from tasks that aren’t your strength and focusing your time where you can add real value, you create space for greater profitability.
Yes, in the beginning it will take time. And I can already hear you thinking, “Time? That’s the one thing I don’t have.” But if long-term success matters, can you really afford not to make the time?
After 30 years in the industry and helping countless businesses through uncertain times, one thing is clear: once a plan is in place, your brand messaging locked in, and your marketing aligned with your goals and budget, it becomes a streamlined, results-driven process. That early investment of time pays dividends.
If there’s one investment every business should make, it’s a marketing consultation. It’s often the first time a business owner gains real clarity around their brand and marketing from an external, expert perspective.
Working with a professional helps you save time because it eliminates the guesswork.
The real success happens when you move away from generic, off-the-shelf marketing and build a strategy designed specifically for your business.
A tailored approach not only saves time but delivers results.
Earlier this week, midwives across the Mackay and Whitsunday regions were recognised for their outstanding contributions to maternal and newborn care during International Day of the Midwife celebrations.
At Mackay Base Hospital, three midwives were presented with awards acknowledging excellence in care, leadership and emerging practice:
Emerging Midwife Award (Postgraduate): Amber Moyle, registered midwife, Women’s Health Unit, Mackay Base Hospital.
Exceptional Midwifery Care Provider Award (consumer-nominated): Danielle Sorbello, clinical nurse midwife, Women’s Health Unit, Mackay Base Hospital.
Outstanding Nursing and Midwifery Leadership Award: Jessie Twivey, nurse educator, Women’s Health Unit, Mackay Base Hospital.
At Proserpine Hospital, the Isabelle Morris Memorial Award was also presented in honour of the late midwife who served the region for more than 30 years. This year’s recipient was Kirsty Dolphin, a registered midwife recognised for her commitment to women’s health in the Whitsundays.
The awards highlighted the dedication, compassion and clinical skill shown by midwives working across the region’s public health services.
Award-winning team: Mackay Base Hospital midwives Jessie Twivey, Amber Moyle and Danielle Sorbello were recognised earlier this week for their outstanding contributions to maternity care as part of International Day of the Midwife celebrations. They are pictured beside the celebratory cake with MHHS Chief Executive Susan Gannon. Photos supplied: Mackay Hospital and Health Service
group photos
Amber Moyle
Jessie Twivey
Danielle Sorbello
A heart-warming act of kindness unfolded near the Beaconsfield petrol station last week, witnessed by a passing motorist returning home from North Mackay.
According to the eyewitness, traffic was flowing steadily when a four-wheel drive suddenly pulled over. Without hesitation, a man – described as of Indian descent – stepped out of his vehicle, despite a line of traffic beginning to bank up behind him. His purpose was simply to rescue an injured bird stranded in the middle of the road.
“To see this fourby pull up, an Indian fella getting out with a line of traffic banking up behind him to save an injured bird in the middle of the road,” the witness recounted.
“Hip hooray to this amazing caring person.
"It made my day.”
In a moment when most would choose convenience or continue driving, this individual’s compassion stood out, offering a quiet but powerful reminder that small actions can carry great meaning.
The bird, cradled gently in the man’s hands, was moved to safety its fate shifted by one person’s choice to stop and care.
It was a fleeting encounter, but one that left a lasting impression – proof that everyday heroes often wear no cape, just a conscience.
Wilmar Sugar and Renewables has confirmed the start dates for its 2025 North Queensland crushing season, with the first of its eight sugar mills set to fire up from Monday 3 June.
Operations will begin in the Burdekin and at Plane Creek Mill in Sarina on 3 June, followed by the Herbert region on 10 June. Proserpine Mill will be the last to come online, with a planned start date of 17 June.
Pre-season commissioning is already well under way, with steam trials scheduled to begin at Inkerman Mill in the Burdekin on 13 May.
In preparation for the season, RSU and locomotive driver training commenced earlier this week across Wilmar’s milling regions. From Tuesday 6 May, empty cane trains began running on the cane rail network during daylight hours.
Motorists are urged to be vigilant at cane railway crossings and to observe all signs and signals throughout the pre-season and crushing period.
No matter how many birthdays you’ve had, there’s something about your mum that still makes you feel five again. That reliable all-wise voice on the end of the line. The smell of her cooking that feels like safety itself.
At 42, I became a mum. Late, perhaps, by some standards, however I was just incredibly thankful for my little miracle to finally arrive. My own parents flew over from New Zealand to be here for the birth of my son. We had our first three-generation Mother’s Day together: me, my baby boy, and the woman who had given so much of herself to raise me. She stayed for three months, holding me up through the fog of newborn life. She was there when I stumbled through sleep deprivation, unsure of who I even was anymore. She never judged—just helped. Quietly. Gently. Lovingly.
A year later, cancer arrived. Colon cancer. And she came again to stay with my little family for three months. Without question. She stood by me through surgery and the start of chemotherapy, all while caring for my toddler like it was the most natural thing in the world. That’s what mums do—they show up. Again and again.
This year, though, I won’t get to spend Mother’s Day with her. She’s back in New Zealand, caring for my dad, who is battling lung cancer. And my wonderful mother-in-law is caring for my father-in-law, who’s also undergoing radiation for cancer.
These women are my strength, my blueprint. Their love runs deeper than any diagnosis, any hardship, any distance. A mother’s love doesn’t end—it just finds new ways to keep giving.
To every mum, whether you’re wiping noses, holding hands through heartbreak, or offering quiet strength in the background, Happy Mother’s Day for Sunday.
May your coffee be hot, your toddler’s tantrum be brief, and your partner elbow-deep in dishes. You’ve earned it.
Amanda
Mother's Day 2024 in Mackay, two weeks after receiving my cancer diagnosis
With strong winds and showers forecast for the weekend, council and stakeholders have made the difficult decision to postpone SPARK! Wood Street.
The SPARK! Wood Street event was set to “pop up” as a dynamic activation of the old cinema car park on Wood and Gordon streets from this Friday, May 9, to next Friday, May 16.
Unfortunately, the festivities were mostly centred around the Friday, Saturday and Sunday (May 9 to 11) and the Bureau of Meteorology has forecast a strong wind warning during that period.
The event is expected to be rescheduled for a weekend in June, however, residents are encouraged to follow the Mackay City and Waterfront Facebook page for new dates and updates.
Council apologises for any inconvenience and looks forward to reigniting SPARK! in a few weekends time.
CQUniversity is thrilled to celebrate the success of alumna Lauren Hamilton Neill, who has secured the co-lead role in the upcoming Australian feature film The Girl in the Shadows, directed by award-winning filmmaker Darren K Hawkins.
A graduate of CQUniversity’s Bachelor of Music Theatre program, Lauren’s career has taken flight both nationally and internationally, with her latest project set to debut at an advanced screening on July 12.
The Girl in the Shadows marks a major milestone in Lauren’s fast-rising career.
Hawkins described Lauren as “a powerhouse performer,” adding that her “preparation, professionalism, and emotional depth” set a benchmark on set.
“She is, without a doubt, one of this country’s most unheralded premier acting talents,” he said.
“Lauren brought intensity, adaptability, and a profound connection to her character – and it’s clear that her time at CQUniversity helped build that foundation.”
Lauren credits her time at CQUniversity’s Conservatorium of Music for equipping her with the skills and mindset needed to thrive in the industry.
“The access to industry professionals and the demanding yet supportive environment laid a foundation for every role I’ve taken on,” she shared.
Director of the Central Queensland Convervatorium of Music, based at CQUniversity, Professor Judith Brown expressed pride in Lauren’s accomplishments.
“Lauren is a shining example of what our graduates can achieve with passion and perseverance.
“Her journey from the Conservatorium to the big screen is inspiring, and we’re incredibly proud to have played a role in her artistic development.
“Her story speaks to the power of training that blends technical skill with real-world experience.
“She’s not only excelling in front of the camera, but now also stepping into screenwriting – showing just how versatile and driven she is,” Professor Brown added.
Lauren’s performance in the Canadian feature film Stage 5 also garnered acclaim, and she has now been cast as the lead in Hawkins’ next film Kennedy, which she is also co-writing – an extraordinary step for a first-time screenwriter.
“She has a gift for understanding character and story at a deep level,” Hawkins said.
“The world is about to discover a remarkable Australian talent.
“As these projects are released, I hope more people, especially women attending CQUniversity, look to Lauren and be inspired by her talent and her journey."
Mackay Regional Council Libraries want you to tell us what a great library service looks like and what’s on your library wish list.
Part yearly health check and part strategic planning tool, the annual Community Survey is Libraries’ way of giving the regional community a say in how their libraries operate.
The survey is live from today. Jump in and complete it online at www.connectingmackay.com.au/libraries-annual-survey or visit your local library to complete the survey and go into the draw to win one of five $100 WISH gift vouchers.
Mayor Greg Williamson said our libraries were constantly evolving hubs.
“Although traditional library services are still highly valued by our community, we no longer only read or borrow books from the library,” Mayor Williamson said.
“They are centres of knowledge, technology and social interaction – somewhere you can discover something you didn’t know was on offer,” he said.
“You will find things like robots, a sound booth and podcasting setup, sewing machines, a variety of musical instruments, gaming consoles and so much more.
“Community needs, hopes and expectations of public libraries are ever-changing, and it’s important that we hear from you so we can continue to improve and deliver the services you want and need.
“This survey is important because it helps influence our future priorities and initiatives – we want the good and the bad, because all feedback helps to shape this fantastic service.”
Questions in the survey cover topics like:
Do you feel connected to your community when visiting the library?
How do you Library? What library services do you use?
How happy are you with the libraries’ services and features?
The survey runs until Thursday, May 22.
Burdekin Shire Council is delighted by the strong interest shown following the release of land in Stage 1 of the Ayr Industrial Precinct.Nutrien Harcourt McCathies have received numerous enquiries since the release with negotiations underway for a number of lots.Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the Ayr Industrial Precinct presents an exciting opportunity for businesses looking to establish or expand their operations in North Queensland.“The strong response to the Stage 1 land release highlights the confidence businesses have in the future of the Burdekin,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.“Land within the Ayr Industrial Precinct is competitively priced, starting from $50 per square metre plus GST, with pricing varying depending on the size and location within the precinct.“Council has worked to ensure the Ayr Industrial Precinct is not only well-located and fully serviced, but also priced to attract a diverse range of businesses.“Whether you are looking for a smaller site or a larger parcel, there are flexible options available to suit a variety of business needs.“Council is committed to supporting economic growth and creating new opportunities for our community by delivering strategic projects like the Ayr Industrial Precinct, which lay the foundations for a stronger, more resilient local economy for current and future generations.”To learn more about the opportunities available within the Ayr Industrial Precinct, download a copy of the Land Sales Prospectus at www.burdekin.qld.gov.au. For all sales enquiries contact Nutrien Harcourt McCathies on 4783 1911 or for any other enquiries, contact Burdekin Shire Council on (07) 4783 9800.
To ensure your dog and others around them are safe, it is important to keep your pet under effective control.
Effective control means holding your dog by a leash that is no longer than 2 metres when you are in a public place such as parks, foreshores or residential areas. It is also essential that you are physically able to control your dog.
When you are at home, please ensure that your dog has adequate fencing and is not aggressive towards people or other animals through the fence, including livestock in rural areas.
For further information on responsible pet ownership please visit Council’s website.
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Thank you for trusting me to be your representative for another three years. As the reelected Member for Dawson, I will repay your faith by continuing to work hard and fight
for our region’s fair share.
Saturday night was bittersweet. I celebrated our local team’s increased vote with family
and supporters, while also mourning the missed opportunity for the Coalition to form
government.
Labor has made many promises in retaining government, and I intend to hold them to
account for our region. I’ll continue to fight for upgrades to the Bruce Highway and other
vital infrastructure, demand real action on the cost of living, pursue greater investment
in our local economies, and remind the government that regional Australians need
access to affordable GPs and medical services.
To me, one of the most important attributes a member of parliament should have, is the
ability to listen. Listening helps me represent all constituents in the best way possible.
My team and I are here for everyone, and I welcome any feedback that helps enhance
our region.
To my dedicated campaign team and volunteers — thank you. Your tireless efforts, long
hours, and commitment played a major role in my re-election.
To my small but mighty electoral office team, your hard work and positive community
engagement make my job so much easier — thank you.
Raylene, Jack, Shannon and Tom — you keep me grounded, humbled and grateful.
Family is everything. You make the challenges lighter, the successes sweeter, and life
better.
To everyone who voted for me — thank you. And to those who didn’t, thank you in
advance for the opportunity to earn your support. I’m proud to be on Team Dawson and
will continue working hard for all Dawson residents to build a stronger future.
Andrew Willcox re-elected for second term as Federal Member for Dawson. Photos supplied
This month we meet, Drew and Lara Kell-Colliver of Whitsundays Property Buyers – the region’s first and only exclusive buyers agency.
Established in May 2024, they offer three core services – a comprehensive buying service from search to settlement: an exclusive access to pre-market and off-market properties; negotiation only service for buyers who want expert guidance to secure the best price, terms, and inclusions; and auction representation providing a clear, confident strategy on auction day.
Whitsundays Property Buyers was established with a clear purpose – to put buyers first.
“Having experienced the challenges of buying from out of area ourselves, we saw just how valuable it would be to have a dedicated buyers service – one that offered the same support, strategy, and advocacy sellers receive,” said Lara.
Their first year of business been focused on raising awareness on their purpose and how it benefits those moving to the region, first home buyers, and time-poor investors. Educating the community has paid off as they are now proudly working with several returning clients.
Lara and Drew believe in giving back, with $500 from their service fee going to a local charity or regional not-for-profit of their client’s choice.
Their top tips to other business owners include:
Know your value and communicate it – Understand exactly who you help, what problems you solve, and why it matters. People choose businesses they trust, built through real value and meaningful relationships.
Marketing isn't optional, it's foundational – It's key to growth and credibility. People can’t work with you if they don’t know you exist.
Learn more about Whitsunday Property Buyers: whitsundayspropertybuyers.com.au
On April 28, 2025, Volunteer Marine Rescue (VMR) Whitsunday was called into action to assist a broken-down vessel just north of Hayman Island. A quiet afternoon of rest before scheduled meetings was suddenly interrupted by the activation. Ray, the 24/7 emergency phone holder, tasked the crew with the rescue operation, which turned out to be five nautical miles north of the shipping channel.
As Ray gathered a crew, the team made their way to Coral Sea Marina.
Upon arrival, the crew quickly assembled and were underway by 15:15. With the tide at an unusually low 0.2m, manoeuvring was challenging, but the crew made swift work of it. The wind was easterly at 11 knots, the skies clear, and few vessels were in sight. Once clear of the markers, they were traveling at 24 knots, heading north toward the stranded vessel, guided by the provided latitude and longitude.
By 16:45, the vessel was securely in tow. Although seas were a little lumpy, the crew adjusted their speed to ensure a steady and safe journey. As they headed toward Coral Sea Marina, the crew was treated to a stunning sunset, marking a peaceful end to the towing operation. Once near the marina, the assisted vessel was rafted alongside VMR1, and by 18:20, the vessel was safely delivered to the public jetty.
After refueling, the crew returned to their berth at N1 to complete paperwork, wash down, and debrief. By 19:00, everything was complete, and the operation was wrapped up smoothly.
The rescue highlighted the skill, coordination, and safety awareness of the volunteer crew. A big thank you goes to Geoff, Dick, Mahesha, Rodney, and Paul for their professionalism and dedication in making the operation look effortless.
Hi Everyone,
What are your thoughts on the new dinosaur-themed putt-putt course currently being proposed for Airlie Beach's main street?
Do you think the artists' impressions show a potential eyesore, or could this become the all-weather tourist attraction we’ve been asking for? Would a reef theme be a better fit or is it time to embrace a novel concept like a dinosaur attraction - is the reef best explored out on the water or perhaps in the council proposed Marine Discovery Centre?
From local chat forums to online media and live news reports, public interest has been both high and divided on the topic. By Friday, a petition to deny the development was launched, quickly garnering nearly 500 signatures within just seven days.
With all this public scrutiny, it seemed like some of the intent behind the proposal was getting lost in a wave of public outrage, with the operators unable to share their perspective.
This is where the role of responsible media comes in—ensuring that all sides of the story are heard.
When we started this newspaper almost five years ago, trust in printed media was at an all-time low. One-sided, sensationalised stories had become the norm, often stirring up drama rather than providing balanced information. As a result, people were reluctant to share their stories.
It has taken years of consistent, neutral reporting to rebuild that trust. We have always made it a point to provide a fair view of the facts, even on the most contentious issues.
This paper is a platform to share news with the community, and we will always endeavour to provide you with balanced, factual information to help you form your own opinion.
This week, the operators of ‘Jurassic Falls’ reached out for help to share their side of the story—one that has not been fully conveyed in the original proposal. We invite you to read their perspective as part of your decision-making process.
Ultimately, it’s up to each individual to review all the facts and decide what they believe is best.
We look forward to continuing to cover this story as it develops.
Rach
Quote of the Week: "It is never too late to be who you might have been" (George Elliot)
The Whitsunday Game Fish Club’s highly anticipated Queenfish and Trevally Rally is set to hit the water on Friday 16 and Saturday 17 May, with all current Game Fish Club members invited to take part in the action-packed weekend of sportfishing.
The event will be fished under club rules with an open line class, and anglers will be targeting five eligible species: Queenfish, Giant Trevally, Golden Trevally, Big Eye Trevally, and Gold Spot Trevally.
While most competitors are expected to favour surface lures such as poppers and stickbaits — popular for their explosive surface strikes — a special section will cater to those preferring to fish with bait.
A briefing and registration night will be held at 6pm on Friday, 16 May, at the Marine Club on Altmann Avenue, Cannonvale. Sam and the team from Tackle World Airlie Beach will be on hand to give a detailed talk covering the best lures, proven techniques, and local hotspots — including tips for fishing the productive waters as close as Shute Harbour.
Everyone is welcome at the Friday night session — whether you’re fishing the rally or not — and it’s completely free to attend.
Fishing kicks off any time after the briefing on Friday night and competitors must return to the Marine Club by 5pm Saturday for the presentation of prizes.
Nomination fees are $25 for adults and $10 for juniors under 16, with all event details to be finalised during the Friday evening briefing. It promises to be a fun, informative and exciting event for anglers of all skill levels.
Club Secretary Steve Obst about to release a nice Queenie.
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