The Mackay Regional Council has approved the development application for a new McDonald’s in Sarina, with Mayor Greg Williamson casting the deciding vote following a robust debate.

Speaking after the decision, Mayor Williamson said, “It was called to make a final decision on the development application for McDonald’s in Sarina.

“After a robust debate, I used my casting vote to actually approve the development application for McDonald’s in Sarina.”

The Mayor highlighted the economic benefits the new restaurant will bring to the community, particularly for local youth. “It's going to be a great thing for Sarina, particularly for the young people in Sarina. They're going to employ 120 people as casuals.”

Mayor Williamson also noted that McDonald’s has committed to working closely with the community to address concerns raised during the council meeting.

“They’ve also committed to working with the neighbours, and work with the council to ameliorate some of the concerns that were raised… about the neighbourhood impact of having McDonald’s on the main street. So, all in all, I think it is a pretty good outcome.”

The new development is expected to create significant employment opportunities while providing a long-term addition to Sarina’s main street. Council hopes the project will support local economic growth, offer jobs for young residents, and balance community needs with development benefits.

‍

Locals are invited to come together for a free community BBQ celebrating International Men’s Day as a chance to connect, enjoy a great lunch, and raise awareness about men’s health and wellbeing.

The event will be held on Wednesday, 19 November 2025, from 11am to 2pm at 160 Boundary Road, Ooralea, and promises to be a relaxed and welcoming afternoon for all ages.

Guests can enjoy a complimentary BBQ lunch, fun giveaways, and free blood pressure checks. It’s also a great opportunity for mates, colleagues, and families to come along, start conversations, and show support for the important men in their lives.

The event is proudly supported by Family Health Care Mackay, BeWorkFit Mackay, and Shed Happens, who have joined forces to highlight the importance of regular health check-ups and open conversations around physical and mental wellbeing.

Organisers hope the casual setting will encourage more men to take a moment for themselves, to chat, check in, and connect with local services that are here to help.
Everyone is welcome to attend, so grab your mates, head down to Ooralea, and be part of a positive community event that celebrates men, their health, and the power of looking out for one another.

Meet our pet of the week - Kobe. Kobe is an 11 month old American Staffordshire X, who is looking for his forever home.

Kobe loves to be around his people, loves to walk and run to burn off all his extra energy —and then cherishes curling up beside you at the end of the day.

Kobe is still a young pup who will need ongoing training, but lucky for his new family, he has mastered the basics already.

He lives up to his breed with excitement, but his big smile and warm heart truly make Kobe a great companion.

Kobe is desexed and up to date with all vaccinations, has also received flea tick treatment and worming, also microchipped.

He is looking for his forever family who will love him and his beautiful personality.

Available for adoption through Lucy's lucky tags and dog Rescue. For more information, please email: lltagsanddogrescue@gmail.com

‍

At Poetry In Print

The Poetry in Print curation team is proud to present a bold new initiative that brings together the rhythmic pulse of poetry and the tactile beauty of printmaking in a celebration of creative dialogue and community storytelling. This unique project pairs nine poets from Mackay Poetry Slam with eleven printmakers from Printbank Mackay, exploring the alchemy that occurs when word meets image.

The project began with a live warm-up session, where each poet presented two original works to an audience and their paired printmaker. From there, the printmakers were invited to respond visually to at least one poem by their assigned poet, with the
freedom to engage with others if inspired.

The result is a diverse and deeply personal collection of prints that reflect the emotional resonance, humour, and humanity embedded in the written word.

“This project is about more than just art,” says the curation team.

“It’s about connection — between disciplines, between artists, and between the community and the stories that shape us.”

Poetry in Print is an independently developed initiative, driven by the passion and collaboration of local artists. It reflects Mackay’s growing reputation as a hub for innovative, community-led arts practice.

The final works will be exhibited in a public showcase that invites viewers to experience the interplay between text and texture, voice and vision. Each piece is accompanied by the poem that inspired it, offering a layered encounter with the creative process and the power of collaboration.

Exhibition Details:

What: Poetry In Print Exhibition
When: Opening night: 5th of December 5-8pm. Then Open daily from 10-2pm 6th – 14th of December 2025
Where: 96 Victoria Street Mackay (Groove Moover Studio)

Some of the talented printmakers from the "Poetry in Print” project back in May

Poetry in Print unites Mackay poets and printmakers in a creative exhibition celebrating words, art, and community, showing December 5–14 at Groove Moover Studio. Photo source: Printback Mackay

‍

Protein, Creatine And The Cognitive Edge

By Michael James – Fitness Industry Professional, Facility Owner & Wellness Coach

Training is only half the story. The other half — the part that often makes or breaks your results — is nutrition. What you put into your body determines how well you recover, how much energy you have, and even how sharp your brain feels day to day. At Fitness Cartel Mackay, we’ve made this a priority by including a café stocked with protein shakes, supplements, and the right fuel to support both physical performance and mental clarity.

Two of the most important tools in this space are protein and creatine. While they’re often associated only with muscle building, the science shows their benefits extend far beyond bigger biceps or stronger lifts.
Protein – the foundation of recovery

Every time you train — whether lifting weights, attending a class, or going for a run — your muscles experience tiny tears. Protein is what rebuilds and repairs those fibres, making them stronger and more resilient. Without enough protein, your progress slows, soreness lingers, and your body simply doesn’t adapt the way you want it to.

But protein isn’t just about recovery. It helps regulate hormones, supports immune function, and keeps you feeling fuller for longer, making it a vital ally for fat loss and energy management. For anyone chasing tone, strength, or simply better health, prioritising protein is non-negotiable.

Creatine – more than just muscle

Creatine is one of the most researched and effective supplements in the world, and its benefits go well beyond the weight room. Yes, it helps muscles produce explosive power, making it invaluable for strength and performance. But recent studies have highlighted something even more exciting: creatine’s impact on the brain.

Supplementing with creatine has been linked to improved memory, faster processing, and greater mental resilience under stress. In other words, it doesn’t just help you train harder — it helps you think clearer. For busy professionals, students, or anyone who wants to stay sharp, creatine is proving to be one of the most valuable tools available.

Convenience meets science

At Fitness Cartel Mackay, our café will make it easy to put the science into practice. Post-workout shakes blended with quality protein, creatine supplementation options, and expert advice will all be on hand. That means you don’t have to guess, and you don’t have to compromise. Refuelling becomes simple, enjoyable, and effective.

Fuel your ambition

Family, community, ambition — our core values run through everything we do. By fuelling properly, you’re not just helping your body recover; you’re giving yourself the energy to show up for your family, perform at work, and chase your goals with confidence.

Because fitness isn’t just about the hours you spend in the gym. It’s about how you feel in every other hour of the day. And the right nutrition is the key to unlocking that.

‍

Bowen’s Youngest Residents Celebrated At Annual Baby Welcoming Ceremony

Under clear spring skies, Bowen families gathered at Hansen Park for a heartwarming celebration — the 2025 Baby Welcoming Ceremony. This cherished tradition, now more than 20 years strong, brought together 30 proud families to honour their newest arrivals, from tiny newborns to curious near-one-year-olds.

Mayor Ry Collins praised the “spectacular spring morning” and the incredible sense of community on display, commending the Bowen Lions Club for their dedication in keeping the event alive. With laughter, stories, and plenty of smiles, the day captured Bowen’s true spirit — a place where every new life is celebrated and every family belongs.

More Than 30 Families Attend Special Baby Welcoming Ceremony

Bowen families gathered at Hansen Park on a beautiful spring morning for the 2025 Baby Welcoming Ceremony, a much-loved community tradition that has been running for more than two decades.

The event saw 30 families come together to celebrate their newest additions — from babies just a few weeks old to others nearing their first birthday.

Mayor Ry Collins described the occasion as “a spectacular spring morning at Hansen Park for Bowen’s 2025 Baby Welcoming Ceremony,” adding that it was “an incredible turnout with 30 families coming together to celebrate their little ones — some just a few weeks old, others nearing their first birthday.”

He said it was heartwarming to hear the stories and journeys of so many new parents.

“Mel and I felt truly privileged to be part of this beautiful tradition that’s been running for over 20 years now — a testament to the care and dedication of the amazing ladies (and some hard working gents) from the Bowen Lions Club,” he said.

Mayor Collins also commended the Bowen Lions Club for their ongoing commitment to the event.

“Take a bow — you’ve created something special that continues to bring joy and lasting memories to so many young families in our community,” he said.

The ceremony once again highlighted Bowen’s strong sense of community and the joy that comes with celebrating the next generation.

Also in attendance on the day was Councillor Michelle Wright.

‍

Hi Everyone,

Many of you will know that my love for the environment inspired me to create Ruth2Reef, a column dedicated to showcasing ways we can protect it. That’s why, when I came to write this week’s article about the Ngaro Track on page four, I found myself at something of a crossroad.

The new trail is an incredible addition, a 32 km hike across awe-inspiring Whitsunday Island, all while promoting what it claims to be, which is 'ecotourism.' I love hiking and I am always keen to discover new places and test my limits, especially in a way that’s as environmentally conscious as possible. I genuinely believe this initiative gives both locals and visitors the chance to explore more of the natural wonders we’re so lucky to have.

At the same time, with my environmental columnist hat on, I completely understand the concerns of environmental members of our community. Protecting our national parks is essential, and we must make sure we don’t allow development to turn these pristine landscapes into a ‘concrete jungle,’ as has happened in many other parts of the world.

While I am not always sure who is right or wrong when there is a disagreement, I try to remain as neutral as I can in my journalism, giving all sides a voice. I recently attended a sustainable travel journalism masterclass with some of the world’s best, including National Geographic editors, and something one of them said really resonated with me: “No travel is ever entirely sustainable,” and “while it is important to bring different cultures together through travel, economically and environmentally there will always be negatives too, and we should remember to maximise the benefits alongside the negatives.” I hope that through my article, readers can see this perspective and how I have tried to incorporate all opinions on this new track and represent it fairly.

Enjoy delving in and reading about this new addition to the Whitsundays, and on the topic of who is right or wrong? Maybe the answer is: neither.

Ruth

I’ve also started using a new app that gives me a “word of the day,” so I thought I’d share today’s with you: latitudinarian - a person who is open minded and tolerant. Quite fitting I think!

‍

Last Wednesday, November 5th was another big day for MRQ Whitsunday who came to the aid of a stranded boatie at Little Black Reef.

The 5.5-metre cabin cruiser, with two people on board, had broken down early in the morning when the call came through to Bill, the team’s 24/7 communications officer. Without hesitation, the crew rallied, with skipper and volunteers heading to Coral Sea Marina to prepare the rescue vessel.

Nat was first on scene to begin prep work, while Rodney and the skipper departed the marina at 7.50am under calm, glassy conditions, ideal weather for a safe and steady recovery.

On arrival, the crew found the vessel anchored in the lagoon at the centre of Little Black Reef. With the tide high, Nat and Rod launched the tender, towed the broken-down boat to the rescue vessel, and began the long tow home at 10.25am.

After a smooth return journey, the cruiser was safely brought back to Coral Sea Marina and rafted to the boat ramp by early afternoon.

The rescue wrapped up around 2pm, marking another successful mission for the dedicated volunteers.

The rescues that MRQ Whitsunday carry out are a testament to the teamwork and community spirit behind every callout.

‍

MRQ Whitsunday volunteers Nat R. and Rodney S. during the rescue on November 5th. Photo sourced: Facebook

‍

Around 50 people attended the Remembrance Day Service in Cannonvale this Tuesday 11 November. The service opened with a welcome from the President of Airlie Beach RSL Club Dianne Trueman, followed by a short address and prayer led by Father Andy Wilson.

Father Wilson reflected on the anniversary of the end of World War I, honouring those who made the ultimate sacrifice, those wounded in battle, and those who continue to bear the emotional scars of war.

Attendees joined together in the Prayer of Remembrance, giving thanks for the courage and sacrifice of servicemen and women and dedicating themselves to the pursuit of justice, freedom, and peace.

Wreaths were laid to the sound of piper Mick Patullo before John Schweitzer recited The Ode to the Fallen. The service then paused for the Last Post, the lowering of the national flag, and a minute’s silence, followed by the Rouse and flag raising by Bryce Fraser.

Jenni Borellini and Airlie Norton led the New Zealand and Australian national anthems respectively, before Father Wilson offered a prayer for those who serve in the Australian Defence Force. The ceremony concluded with the Lord’s Prayer and a reading of In Flanders Fields by John Schweitzer.

We will remember them.

‍

Yet The New 32-Kilometre Hiking Trail Sparks Debate

By Ruth Puddefoot

Discover the real Whitsundays Island on a brand new long-distance hiking trail
Stretching 32 km along the southern end of Whitsunday Island, the brand-new Ngaro Track offers spectacular vistas, ever-changing scenery, and a connection between two iconic destinations: Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet. Visitors can explore the island’s remote interior and even camp overnight at bespoke campsites.

Offering both guided and self-guided tours, the government describes the track as providing a “range of first-class ecotourism experiences.” Hikers can climb the towering Whitsunday Craig, one of the island’s highest peaks, and meander through mangroves in the upper reaches of Hill Inlet. Along the way, they encounter the island’s rich plant and animal communities, as well as abundant marine life in the crystal-clear waters of the Whitsunday Sea. The track also traverses Ngaro Country, acknowledging the enduring connection of the Ngaro people to Land, Sea, and Sky as integral elements of their identity and culture.

The State Government, promoting a new era of ecotourism in Queensland, is anticipating the track’s official opening after the completion of construction. Officials claim that “the Ngaro Track will welcome low impact, guided commercial tours and self-sufficient walkers to experience the natural and cultural wonders of the Whitsundays like never before.”
Environment and Tourism Minister for Science and Innovation Minister Powell highlighted the track’s potential for tourism growth:

“Queensland is the home of the holiday, and opening up immersive experiences in some of Queensland’s most jaw-dropping destinations is what makes our state so memorable,” he said.

“Move over, Tasmania – Queensland is setting a new benchmark for ecotourism with our Destination 2045 plan.”

Member for Whitsundays Amanda Camm welcomed the addition to local tourism offerings:

“This is exactly what visitors and locals want to see in this beautiful part of the world,” she said.

“The ability to be immersed in nature, and be guided through such an important cultural destination,
will be unique for everyone who does the Ngaro Track.”

Mayor Ry Collins also praised the project:

“The Whitsundays have always been the heart of Queensland’s nature-based tourism, and projects like the Ngaro Track help strengthen that reputation while celebrating the cultural and environmental values that make this region so unique.

“This initiative is being delivered entirely by the Queensland Government, and we understand it has been carefully designed to balance access and protection while ensuring the natural beauty of Whitsunday Island remains front and centre.

“You only have to look at the famous Overland Track through the Cradle Mountain–Lake St Clair National Park in Tasmania to see that sustainable tourism experiences like this are vital for regional economies, local jobs, and growing respect for Country.

“The more people who get to experience our environment in the right way, the more they value its protection.”

Tourism operators have also expressed excitement. Iconic Whitsundays co-owner and former Tourism Whitsundays Board Member Nicole Graham said:

“The National Parks do a fantastic job.

“People want these walks all around the world. So why shouldn’t we have them?

“We're in the Whitsundays, and we've got these unique islands, and it's such a fantastic opportunity to have this walk and have it an overnight.

“I've done overnight hikes, and I think they're a fantastic way to really enjoy the ecotourism and build that ecotourism in our region.”

However, environmental activists have raised concerns. The Whitsundays Conservation Council, the region’s peak ecological body and volunteer group, says conservation—the cardinal principle of a national park—is being sidelined.

Council President Tony Fontes stated:

“The State environmental agenda appears to have been taken over by tourism and business interests.

“WCC and our members have consistently voiced only the strongest opposition to private, commercial exclusive operations on public lands and that includes National Parks.

“There has been little to no community consultation regarding this project. To date, there is little information and no details on many aspects that raise concerns in this proposal.

“What we do know is that the trail will be exclusive to one commercial operator (World Expeditions). They will set the price for all walkers and it will not be cheap. This track has been built by Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service with our taxpayer dollars. This is not ecotourism, it is eco-exploitation.”

Michael Buggy, World Expeditions (WEX) Director of Australasian Operating Companies Michael Buggy said WEX was delighted to play a role in bringing the Ngaro Track to the public.

“We can’t wait to welcome walkers on the Ngaro Track, Queensland’s newest multi-day hiking adventure and a truly special journey through one of Australia’s most iconic landscapes.”

With its combination of natural beauty, cultural significance, and adventure tourism, the Ngaro Track is poised to become a landmark attraction for the Whitsundays. But as the excitement builds, the debate over access, commercialisation, and conservation continues, highlighting the delicate balance between tourism development and environmental stewardship.

‍

The Ngaro Track - World Expeditions. Photo credit: Matt Horspool.

‍

Residents of the Whitsundays may have spotted a newer, cleaner, sleeker looking ambulance rolling through town during the last few weeks, as the Whitsunday Ambulance Station gains a brand new Ambulance.

Acting Officer in Charge of the station Erin Maree Saltmarsh said that the fellow officers have been loving it, and despite it being at the station for four weeks, this week was the first time she had time to properly take a look at it, due to constantly being used on jobs.

The Whitsunday Ambulance Station now have five ambulances that service the growing population in the region.

"We're trying to plan for the growth in population and the increase in our workload here with QAS (Queensland Ambulance Service) in the Whitsundays," said Erin.

"By getting new vehicles that we know we can rely on, helps us to be able to get to the patients and those within the community quicker, and it's guaranteed we're going to get there, because there's nothing worse than if you have a vehicle breakdown and we're delayed.

"Having good equipment and the staff to be able to deal with the growth in the population is really important."

The new Ambulance is a Mercedes Sprinter 419 VS30 Van and is equipped with new technology. It contains an MDT, which allows operators to be dispatched through a screen, without using radios. It also has a Satelite Push to Talk device and a satelite phone too.

Amanda Camm MP Member for Whitsunday said that this new ambulance represents more than just a need for newer technology in the region.

"This represents an investment that recognises the continued growth and the importance of renewal of infrastructure and assets that we need for our frontline health services," she said.

"We know across particularly our Cannonvale area, our community continues to grow, and we need to continue to invest to keep up with that growth and deliver good outcomes."

With a growing population Ms Camm MP also said the region needs to look to the future, and she will be advocating and going to the Health Minister with talks to see further investment into the Whitsunday Ambulance Station.

‍

The new ambulance at the Whitsunday Ambulance Station with staff and Amanda Camm MP. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

‍

The Bowen Mural at Front Beach and beside the Little Mango the Information Centre is complete.

Artist Glen Gillard said he has completed the 'book ends' of a mural piece which includes old drawings of buildings on Herbert Street in Bowen.

The latest artworks depict the School of Arts and the Town Hall both once prominent landmarks along Herbert Street.

Glen explained that The School of Arts was badly damaged in the 1958 cyclone and later demolished, while the Town Hall, built in 1890, was destroyed by fire in 1912.

It took Glen around six weeks to complete both pieces. Fans of Glen’s work will be pleased to know his trademark and much loved green tree frogs have returned, with around six hidden throughout the mural.

Gillard, who has painted around eight murals in Bowen, praised the town’s Mural Society which began in 1988.

Backed by the Bowen Mural Society, Glen conducted extensive research through local archives and the State Library to ensure each historic detail was accurate.

The Bowen Mural Society are also eager to hear from anybody that would be interested in joining the committee, to ensure that this Bowen tradition lives on.

‍

The completed mural in Bowen. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

‍

Whitsunday residents now have another way to fly directly from the region to Cairns — and the new connection is already proving a hit with travellers on both sides of the reef. A new direct flight between Cairns and Hamilton Island has officially taken off, reconnecting two of Queensland’s most iconic Great Barrier Reef destinations for the first time since the pandemic and opening the door for more Cairns visitors to explore the Whitsundays.

The inaugural East Air service departed Cairns Airport at 9am on Monday, touching down just over an hour later on Hamilton Island after a celebratory farewell. East Air Managing Director Alan Milne said the service had exceeded expectations, with strong forward bookings and near-full flights.

“The service is designed to better serve travellers, both domestic and international. We have created a seamless corridor between two Great Barrier Reef gateways, which means visitors don’t have to choose between one or the other,” Mr Milne said.

“It is particularly attractive for international tourists who may not often visit regional Queensland."

Mr Milne said additional Sunday flights would begin in February, catering to weekend travellers.

“Residents in Tropical North Queensland and the Whitsundays are excited to have another convenient holiday option. Sales are strong and building, and we’re thrilled with how quickly the flights are returning to their previous passenger loads,” he said.

Cairns Airport CEO Richard Barker added the new route would further boost regional tourism, while Hamilton Island CEO Nick Dowling said he was “thrilled to welcome back direct flights between Hamilton Island and Cairns.”

‍

The businesses operating from Cumberland House in Cannonvale have combined fronts and united in the spirit of Christmas and gift-giving, to support the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre's annual Toy Drive.

Cumberland House contains three local businesses, Whitsunday Law, Accountancy Plus and Queensland Sotheby's International Realty.

What started as a casual conversation between businesses has quickly turned into a full-scale festive effort, with the team setting up a giving tree in their foyer to collect gifts for children aged from newborn to 17 years.

The initiative came together in record time after a chat between Lynn from Sotheby’s and Kellee from Whitsunday Law.

Following the chat Cumberland House as a whole sparked the idea to take part in the Neighbourhood Centre’s annual Christmas Toy Drive.

“The email went around on Thursday last week, and by Monday we had the tree, the tags, and the decorations up. Everyone just jumped in, it really was a team effort," said Sheri Flynn from Whitsunday Law, and real advocate and drive for this project.

The tree, now proudly standing in the Cumberland House foyer, invites the community to get involved by donating unwrapped gifts. Tags on the tree are marked with age ranges, allowing donors to match presents to the appropriate group.

“If someone buys a gift for, say, a 10-year-old girl, they can simply grab a tag from the tree, attach it to their present, and place it on the donation table,” explained Sheri.

“And if we run out of tags, people can pop into any of our offices and we’ll print more.”

Donations can be dropped off at Cumberland House between 8.30am and 5pm, Monday to Friday, until November 27. After that, the gifts will be delivered to the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre in time for their Pop-Up Shop, held on December 11 and 12.

‍

Head to Cumberland House now to donate gifts for Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre's annual toy drive. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

‍

The Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre has launched its 2025 Community Toy Drive, celebrating nine years of spreading Christmas cheer through its Free Christmas Pop-Up Shop. The initiative ensures every local child has a gift under the tree, with 62 families and 230 children supported last year.

Businesses and community groups are invited to join by setting up a Giving Tree in their workplace or running staff-led collections. Donated new, unwrapped toys must be delivered to the Centre by Wednesday, December 10, to stock the Pop-Up Shop on December 11–12.

Families in the 4799, 4800, and 4802 postcodes can register via Facebook to receive tokens to exchange for gifts, helping restore dignity and choice.

The Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre also asks donors to remember teens when choosing presents.

For details or to register as a partner, contact the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre or visit their Facebook page.

‍