Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
OPINION PIECE from the office of Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox There is no question that immigration into Australia is out of control. The government’s numbers are too high, and standards are too low. A sustainable migration program must consider our capacity to provide housing, healthcare, infrastructure and the essential services everyone relies on, and Australians must come first. But Labor’s decision to target Working Holiday Makers Visa holders is not the answer. These people filling vital gaps in our workforce are not the cause of Australia’s housing crisis. In many cases, they are living in accommodation provided by the very businesses that employ them. The National Farmers’ Federation has made the point that Working Holiday Makers generally stay in hostels, caravan parks or purpose-built on-farm accommodation. Resorts usually have on-site staff quarters. They are not the source of Australia’s housing shortage. So why is Labor making it harder for them to come here, when these workers fill genuine jobs that regional Australia holds? Working Holiday Makers fill approximately one in seven farm jobs nationally and are particularly important during peak agricultural periods, which for Dawson, it is right now! Farmers rely on these workers to plant, pick, pack and harvest the produce that ends up on Australian supermarket shelves. Having run one of Australia’s largest tomato farms, at times Working Holiday Makers made up more than 50 per cent of my workforce. Without them, much of our crop simply would not have been picked in time and rotted in the paddock. Some may say, why not employ the Australians who don’t have a job and are on “the dole”? Can I say, this does not work. Most farmers will employ Aussies over travelling backpackers, but many either don’t want to do the work or don’t turn up after the first day. Who picks the fruit or veggies then? Farmers are already warning that visa delays are leaving them without workers. The NFF says approvals that once took days are now facing processing times of up to three months, and this time frame can be the difference between harvesting a crop or losing it. That should concern every Australian already feeling the pressure at the supermarket checkout. The same problem is playing out in tourism. Across Dawson, Working Holiday Makers are an important part of the workforce supporting tourism and hospitality, particularly in the Whitsundays. They help fill shifts, work in hotels and restaurants, support tour operators and keep businesses running through their busiest periods. They also contribute to the local economy. They spend money on food, fuel, attractions and tours, supporting the small businesses that depend on a strong visitor economy. That is why tourism and business leaders across North Queensland are raising the alarm. They understand what happens when a regional business cannot get enough staff: opening hours are reduced, and services are cut, creating a downward spiral. We do need to reduce migration to sustainable levels. We need stronger integrity measures, and we need to crack down on rorts. But responsible migration policy means understanding which parts of the system are creating pressure and which parts are helping Australia function. Working Holiday Makers are not the problem. They are part of the workforce solution for regional. Australia. People have had a gutful of watching their standard of living go backwards. Groceries, fuel, housing and everyday expenses are already putting enormous pressure on families. The last thing Australians need is another reckless policy that makes it harder to produce food, harder to run regional businesses and harder for tourism operators to find the workers they need.
Read the full storySomeone sold a house in Sydney last week for $9 million less than they bought it for four or five years ago. The sellers had bought the property in Sydney’s eastern suburbs for $29 million and sold it for $20 million in a sale forced by their bank. I imagine the sellers are a little disappointed by the government’s decisions on negative gearing and capital gains tax and feeling pretty hurt by the increased interest rates. Australia’s interest rates are on the rise and are now sitting at levels not seen since 2011. Increased cost of living is hurting people around the country and interest rates are playing into that. But the impact of interest rates is not felt evenly around the country. The far-higher property prices mean people in the major cities suffer much more than regional areas with the rates increase. That is certainly not to say people in Mackay are unaffected by the cost of living; it’s just that the impact of interest rates increase on a $400,000 mortgage is much less than the impact on a $1m mortgage. There are other Mackay-specific factors that are in play when discussing the current housing market. The big factor is the role of coal in our economy. Most of the coal extracted and exported from our region is coking coal, which is used to make steel. The price of coking coal is around $280 a tonne, which is about 50 per cent up. Good activity in the coal market translates to good news for the Mackay economy, as it is an economic engine that other cities and regions just don’t have. Good activity in Bowen Basin flows throughout the Mackay economy; Paget workshops, transport, suppliers and related businesses all benefit. But so do other, non-mining-related businesses as they benefit from the general confidence and spending that goes on. The strong mining activity also means mines need to keep their staff levels up and that means more people moving to Mackay. Of course, Mackay is much more than a coal mining town but if the coal sector is going well those other areas definitely benefit. It is a confidence boost for Mackay people looking to get into the housing market and those wanting to upgrade or downsize. It also means continuing strong demand from people wanting to rent a property and it will be interesting to see what sort of activity that creates from investors. Investors have walked away from the big-city markets because they can no longer use negative gearing on established properties that do not have a sufficient yield to be positively geared. Negative gearing has never been a big thing in Mackay because our prices are lower and rental returns continue to be strong so many investors have a positively geared property. Around the country everyone is nervous about the state of play and the probability of more interest rate rises. But strong coal prices and an economy that is performing well mean Mackay might just be presenting an opportunity for buyers and sellers that doesn’t exist in other parts. I remember when national confidence was flying high and Mackay prices were going up significantly that many buyers were saying “I wish we had bought a while ago when the market wasn’t so hot”. I’m not armed with a crystal ball so I’m not here to tell you what is going to happen but I suspect there is a very good buying window right now for those looking for an opportunity.
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A local Mackay and Sarina based model has created a dress out of newspapers, including Mackay Life, for her upcoming pageant, representing her region and hometown on the runway as she vies for Miss Diamond International in Brisbane. Zoe Place will be competing this weekend in the three-day event, beginning this Friday 2nd October and ending on Sunday 4th October. The young model spent around a month creating her eco-fashion outfit, using old newspapers as the main material and transforming them into a bodice, skirt and flowers. Red elements were also incorporated into the design to give the dress a bold and glamorous pageant feel. Zoe said, “The entire concept was really about taking something that would normally be thrown away and turning it into something beautiful and meaningful.” Her eco-fashion creation will form part of a busy weekend in Brisbane, with the Miss Diamond International event including photo shoots, interviews, an eco-fashion show and the final pageant. Zoe has been preparing for the event by practising her strut and walking, preparing for interviews and getting comfortable in the different outfits she will wear throughout the weekend. Alongside her love of modelling, pageantry has also provided Zoe with a platform to raise awareness about causes close to her heart, including mental health, while fundraising for Beyond Blue. “Pageantry has given me more of a platform to combine my love for modelling with something that is really important to me.” “When I first started, I was more nervous about putting myself out there and worried about what others would think about me – but I’ve changed a lot through my journey in pageantry.” “Pageantry has also taught me that it’s not about how you look on stage. It’s about the person you are when you step off it.” “Every woman has their own unique journey and that journey is something we should all be really proud of.” “To me, it represents confidence, empowerment, kindness, and using your voice to make a difference.” Zoe said she was looking forward to meeting the other contestants, making new connections and creating memories. “I’m definitely looking forward to meeting all the new contestants and making new connections and creating memories that I will carry with me for a lifetime.” While Zoe hopes to eventually move to the city, her sights are set even further afield, with a dream of one day walking in New York Fashion Week. Mackay and Sarina local Zoe Place has created an eco-fashion dress from recycled newspapers, including Mackay Life, ahead of her Miss Diamond International pageant in Brisbane. Photos supplied
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Trends, reels and the endless cycle of always wanting more has quietly bombarded the minds of countless social media users of all ages, but one former Mackay local has made it her mission to help others understand the effects of social media and find practical ways to break free from online addiction. Alexis Zahner is in Mackay over the next week to teach upcoming generations about social media and the effects it can have on the mind, particularly on identity, self-discovery, as well as the marketing strategies that get viewers hooked and influence their decisions. It is something Alexis knows first-hand can be a useful tool, but also a great disruption to authenticity and the world as we see and experience it. Alexis will hold a free meet and greet and book launch today, Friday 2nd October, at 5.30pm at the Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club, where she will give a talk and answer questions relating to her debut book, Real: Reconnecting to Yourself in a World of Likes and Lies. A former Mackay girl, Alexis spent the past 15 years working across business psychology, marketing and media, with her interest in social media influence beginning during her university studies at James Cook University in Townsville. Her own experience as a social media user, travel blogger and influencer eventually led her to question how much of her identity, decisions and values were being shaped by what she saw online. “The tipping point came for me about 3 years ago when I had this feeling that I couldn't separate influence from my own personal decision making,” she said. “I couldn't separate my own likes, dislikes, values, relationships from what I was being exposed to and being influenced by online.” “I found that I needed to take some time away from social media to recalibrate what was important to me and sort of reconnect and come back to myself.” Alexis said she understood the feeling of questioning who you are outside of social media. “I know what it feels like to live a life under the influence of social media and have that existential crisis of thinking to yourself, who am I? What do I like? What's the kind of life I want to live? and struggling to separate myself from influence.” Alexis is particularly passionate about reaching teenagers, who she says are in an important stage of identity development, and will share this message with Mackay high school students during her upcoming school talks. “Teenagers are really easily influenced by social media. So it's a really important age where we start educating them – not just on the mental health repercussions of things like social media and how it shortens their attention span, but how it actually influences who they become.” “If you're asking yourself these questions, it's not your fault. Social media is actually geared to create this impact on you.” Alexis encourages people of all ages to “start expanding beyond what you see on the platform.” “Dare to indulge in the things that you've always been curious about or things you used to love,” she said. “Don't be afraid to put the phone down to let yourself be curious and have fun.” What: Alexis Zahner's 'Real' Book launch When: 5.30pm Friday 2nd October 2026 Where: Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club Former Mackay local and author Alexis Zahner is returning home to share her experiences with social media and her debut book, Real. Photo supplied
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230 Shute Harbour Rd, Cannonvale QLD. Photo supplied: Quantum Wellness Whitsundays.
Contributed with thanks to QUANTUM Wellness
QUANTUM Wellness was born from the vision of two dedicated local Whitsunday practitioners who built their dream of a centre offering a new level of wellness in their region, using advanced, state-of the-art biohacking and recovery technology services coupled with personalised coach guidance.
WHAT MAKES OUR CENTRE UNIQUE? – first of its kind in the Whitsundays, it’s not a spa, not a gym, not a clinic – QUANTUM is an advanced performance, recovery and wellness centre using elite European technology, to provide luxury experiences and science-backed recovery systems that offer personalised one-on-one coaching and direction for your wellness journey.
WHAT IS BIOHACKING? – Do-it-yourself approaches to optimize health, performance, and longevity through lifestyle tweaks, biology, and technology. QUANTUM offers: 3D Body Scan, Cryotherapy Chamber, BodyRoll Studio, Infra-red + Collagen Red Light Therapy, Variable Vacuum Therapy, Functional Contrast Therapy, Local Cryo + LED Facial, DEPS Body Sculpt, and PEMF Longevity Lounge.
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Photos supplied
As part of National Tree Day, Whitsunday Regional Council sprang into action, planting around 350 native trees across the region to help make the Whitsundays a little greener.
The effort looks to give local areas more natural shade, better support local wildlife and add to the region’s natural beauty, with trees planted at Whitsunday Lakes, Darcy Munro Park in Collinsville, Bowen Cemetery, Proserpine Cemetery and selected road reserves.
“We’re lucky to live in one of the most beautiful parts of Australia, and we want our parks and public spaces to be places our community is proud of and enjoys spending time in,” said Mayor Ry Collins.
“Our outdoor teams do a fantastic job every day keeping our parks, gardens and public spaces looking their best, and National Tree Day is another great example of that work.”
The project also aims to make the region’s parks and public spaces more enjoyable, inviting and accessible.
“Our parks and open spaces are there to be used and enjoyed,” Mayor Collins said.
“We want to see kids getting outside and playing, families spending time together, people walking the dog, exercising or just finding a shady spot to relax.”
“The more inviting we can make these spaces, the more people will use them, and planting more trees and creating natural shade is a simple but really important part of that.”
Meet Tarryn
From Whitsunday Glow Co.
The face behind the glow, Tarryn Jack is a proud local Whitsundays spray tan artist with over 10 years experience in the beauty industry, providing mobile and in studio services to make customers feel their best.
“I truly love helping people feel confident, beautiful, and comfortable in their own skin,” Tarryn says.
“Every spray tan is carefully customised to suit your skin tone, your style, and the occasion - whether it's your wedding day, tropical holiday, special event, or simply because you deserve to feel amazing.”
Creating a relaxing, welcoming experience, Whitsunday Glow Co. is all about giving you the opportunity to take a little time for yourself, and leave with a natural, flawless glow you'll love.
What was meant to be a 42-night holiday in Bali has turned into a months-long fight for recovery and a way home for 72-year-old Cannonvale local John Lyle, after a sudden loss of mobility left him unable to walk.
John and his partner Kate arrived in Bali on April 10th for what was a normal holiday, continuing a tradition of travelling each year.
While visiting the Gili Islands in May, the holiday took a frightening turn after John suffered a few falls, including stepping down from a high footpath and having the step of a horse-drawn cart break beneath him.
Despite initially being able to continue walking, days later John began experiencing numbness in his legs, with his mobility rapidly deteriorating from needing support to walk, to using a walker and eventually losing the ability to walk altogether.
“Day by day, his mobility, he lost a little bit more,” said Kate Lemke, John’s partner.
“Then he woke up one morning and the mobility was gone.”
After seeking medical treatment, John was diagnosed with two nerve entrapments affecting his spine. He had to undergo surgery, beginning what has since become a lengthy road to recovery.
Following the surgery, John remained in hospital, but his condition left him completely reliant on others for his care.
His recovery was further complicated when he developed pneumonia and, with his immune system compromised, Kate was advised that a prolonged hospital stay carried further risks.
She eventually moved John into an accessible villa, hiring a pressure mattress, hoist and nursing support to manage his day-to-day needs.
John now undergoes regular physiotherapy and neurological treatment, both at the hospital and from the villa as they work to regain whatever movement may be possible.
The question is, why haven’t John and Kate flown home?
A major factor has been their travel insurance claim, which Kate said was rejected on the grounds that John’s spinal condition was pre-existing. The insurer pointed to a 2016 MRI that indicated a back issue, along with his history of chiropractic treatment, in making its decision.
Kate disputes the finding, arguing John remained active for years afterwards and was never advised that the results required further investigation.
“How can you say that that’s pre-existing?” Kate said.
“This man worked after that MRI, I had photos and videos of him at the gym.
“If we knew that he had some sort of back injury, we would have got follow-up, but we weren’t even recommended to follow up.”
The rejected claim has left the couple funding John’s treatment and care themselves, while returning to Australia would also come at a significant cost, with an air ambulance quoted at around $150,000.
A GoFundMe has been established to support John’s ongoing recovery and help the couple eventually return home to Australia.
Kate is also calling on anyone travelling from the Whitsundays or Mackay to Bali to help bring over a lightweight wheelchair for John, with dwindling funds and freight costs that she says could reach 200 per cent of the wheelchair’s value making it difficult to secure a more practical way to get him around.
There are few better times to be in the Whitsundays than August, when our waters come alive with some of the best sailing in Australia.
We’ve just enjoyed another fantastic Airlie Beach Race Week, bringing sailors, families and supporters from across Australia and beyond to our region. This week the attention shifted across the water for Hamilton Island Race Week, once again showcasing the Whitsundays as one of the world’s great sailing destinations.
These events are much more than a great spectacle on the water.
They bring thousands of visitors into our region who stay in our accommodation, eat in our restaurants and cafes, visit our shops, book tours and support local businesses. That flow-on spreads well beyond Airlie Beach and the islands, supporting jobs and our broader regional economy.
It’s also another reminder of why the Whitsundays is such a logical home for Olympic and Paralympic sailing in 2032.
The Queensland Government identified the Whitsundays as its preferred location for sailing more than a year ago and, while the formal field of play and infrastructure planning processes continue, Council certainly hasn’t been sitting back waiting for every box to be ticked before making our case.
Since then, that momentum has continued to build. I’ve signed a Host City Deed and been appointed to the Brisbane 2032 Host Mayors Advisory Group, while Council continues to work closely with government agencies and Games planners to advocate for the Whitsundays and the legacy investment our region deserves.
We are advocating strongly and confidently because successful advocacy starts well before the final decisions are made, and opportunities like this don’t come along very often.
For me, 2032 has never been simply about hosting several days of Olympic and Paralympic competition. The real prize is the legacy it can leave behind.
That means global exposure for the Whitsundays, but importantly it also means advocating for investment in infrastructure and facilities that our community will benefit from for decades.
We already know we can host world-class sailing events. Every August, events like Airlie Beach Race Week and Hamilton Island Race Week prove that.
Between now and 2032, our job is to keep building on that reputation and make sure the Whitsundays receives the lasting benefits that should come from being part of the biggest sporting event on the planet.
For now, congratulations to everyone involved in another successful Airlie Beach Race Week, and a warm Whitsundays welcome to everyone arriving for Hamilton Island Race Week.
It’s a pretty special time to call the Whitsundays home.
Reef Side Buyers Agent is built around one simple goal – delivering far more than a standard property search. By working exclusively for the buyer, the business ensures every recommendation, negotiation and decision is made with the client’s best interests at the centre.
Unlike traditional selling agents who represent the seller, Reef Side Buyers Agent provides independent advice and support throughout the entire purchasing process. Its complete Search to Settlement service combines strategic property sourcing, access to off-market opportunities, detailed market research, property inspections, due diligence, price negotiations, and settlement support into one seamless experience.
By managing every stage of the buying journey, Reef Side Buyers Agent helps clients save valuable time, reduce stress, and make confident decisions when navigating one of the biggest financial decisions they will make — securing the right property at the right price.
The business is seeing continued demand from interstate buyers relocating to the Whitsundays for lifestyle, employment, and investment opportunities. As coastal property markets remain competitive and housing supply remains limited, buyers are increasingly seeking expert guidance to identify value, understand local market conditions, and avoid costly mistakes.
While technology has made property research more accessible than ever, Reef Side Buyers Agent believes local expertise and trusted relationships remain critical. Having an experienced advocate on the buyer’s side provides valuable insight into market trends, property opportunities, inspections, negotiations, and due diligence.
Over the past 12 months, one of the key challenges facing the business has been navigating limited housing supply and strong competition for quality properties. In response, Reef Side Buyers Agent has continued to strengthen relationships with local selling agents, expand access to off-market opportunities and refine its research and negotiation strategies.
The business has also invested in digital education and communication, helping buyers better understand the value of independent representation and the benefits of having professional support throughout the property journey.
For business owners, Reef Side Buyers Agent believes success comes down to three key principles: building trust, communicating consistently, and focusing on long-term relationships rather than short-term wins.
Being part of the Chamber business community aligns strongly with these values, providing opportunities to build local connections, collaborate with other businesses and contribute to a stronger regional business community.
Whitsunday Criminal Investigation Branch detectives have charged a 43-year-old Cannonvale man following investigations into an alleged sexual assault at a Cannonvale medical practice on 11th July.
Police allege the man sexually assaulted a woman at the business during the course of his duties as a general practitioner.
Following investigations, detectives executed a search warrant at the business on 7th August. The 43-year-old man was subsequently arrested and charged with one count of rape and one count of sexual assault.
He is due to appear before Proserpine Magistrates Court on 24th August.
Mackay Whitsunday Detective Inspector Emma Novosel said police were urging anyone with further information, or who may have experienced interactions of a similar nature, to come forward.
“Police have zero tolerance for any person who commits criminal acts of this nature,” said Detective Inspector Novosel.
“These offences are a serious breach of trust, and police are committed to seeking justice for victim-survivors and hold perpetrators to account.
“We acknowledge the victim-survivor for her bravery in coming forward, and want to reassure any victim-survivors that you are not alone, and support is available.
“We encourage anyone who has information to contact police.”
Investigations remain ongoing and police are providing support to the woman.
Anyone with information can contact Policelink via the online suspicious activity form, available 24 hours a day, or report information anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Sexual assault can be reported by calling Triple Zero (000) in an emergency, contacting police by phone or in person at a police station, or through the Queensland Police Service's online sexual assault reporting form. Alternative Reporting Options are also available.
For confidential counselling and support, the State-wide Sexual Assault Helpline can be contacted on 1800 010 120, while 1800RESPECT provides 24-hour support.
Quote reference: QP2601404002.
Several community projects are progressing across the Whitsunday region, with new facilities opening and construction moving ahead from Collinsville to Cannonvale and Shute Harbour.
At Shute Harbour, upgrades to Snows Beach Park and Lion’s Lookout are set to get underway this month.
Snows Beach Park will receive a new shelter complete with picnic settings, an electric barbecue and lighting, replacing the existing shelter and tables.
Nearby at Lion’s Lookout, the existing fence along the top of the hill will be replaced with a new aluminium fence.
Works are expected to begin in mid-August and wrap up by the end of September, weather permitting. Sections of both areas will be temporarily fenced off while construction is underway.
Elsewhere in the region, residents and visitors can now make use of newly completed public amenities at Dingo Beach and Collinsville Cemetery, with both projects recently completed as part of Council’s ongoing investment in community facilities.
Meanwhile, one of the region’s biggest community projects is beginning to take shape at Galbraith Park in Cannonvale.
Construction is continuing on the new $30 million Cannonvale Community Hub, with crews spending the past month completing bored piers, preparing footings and progressing water, stormwater and other underground infrastructure.
The next stage will see the development begin to emerge above ground, with concrete footings, ground beams and column plinths to be poured and blockwork commencing.
Once completed, the hub will bring several important community services under one roof, including a modern library, Council customer service centre, meeting rooms and flexible community spaces connected with the surrounding Galbraith Park precinct.
The project is jointly funded, with the Australian Government contributing $15 million alongside funding from Whitsunday Regional Council.
With projects both large and small progressing across the region, the latest works aim to provide improved public spaces and facilities for Whitsunday communities now and into the future.
Meet Elliot, the three-month-old puppy who’s ready to steal your heart and probably a few socks as well.
This Sharpei x Staffy pup has plenty of classic puppy energy on show, but at just three months old, he’s still got plenty of growing and learning ahead of him.
Elliot is sweet, cuddly, playful and confident around people. He gets along well with other dogs and children, though at just three months old, he’s still figuring out his puppy manners so just keep an eye peeled.
He’s currently showing plenty of curiosity around cats and other livestock, with his young age giving him a good chance to learn how to live alongside other animals.
Elliot is microchipped, has received his first vaccination, while also being up to date on heartworm prevention, flea, tick and worming treatments.
Whether it’s a home with a yard or apartment living, Elliot is ready to find a family with plenty of time for play, cuddles and maybe the occasional pup cup every now and then.
If you think Elliot could be the perfect addition to your home, contact Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue by direct messaging your name, phone number and "Paisley" to begin the adoption process.
After 20 years learning the blinds and awnings ropes through his family's business, a North Queenslander spotted an opening in the Whitsundays and decided to fill it himself.
Launching his mobile business six months ago, Len Melville brought Queensland-made blinds and awnings to the area, using his locally honed eyes to help residents find the best fit for their homes.
“I’m born and bred in North Queensland, so I know the weather conditions well and I know what’s suited for here,” Len said.
“I’ve sold these particular products for the last 20 years and I know they’re good quality products.”
Len’s knowledge of the trade was built over two decades working in his family business in Townsville, where he learnt the industry from his former father-in-law, who had already spent 25 years managing a North Queensland blinds and awnings business.
“He trained me in everything from going out, measuring, quoting, running the factory, ordering, quality control, dealing with reps and administration,” Len said.
Len’s range covers plenty of options inside and outside the home, set to add flair, shade or a little extra comfort, from roller blinds, vertical drapes and panel glides to fabric and aluminium awnings, fixed louvres and polycarbonate hoods.
With summer rolling in, Len stressed the importance of thinking ahead, whether that means adding some extra shade or better preparing your home for storm season.
“I realise now that we’re coming into summer, so it’d be a good time for people to start to think of their, especially their external awnings, to keep out the sun and the heat,” Len said.
After two decades in the industry, Len’s drive to start something fresh comes from his love of meeting new people and using his knowledge to improve something they take plenty of pride in, their home.
“Every job’s a new experience. I love to meet people,” Len said.
“You meet some great people, you try and solve problems for them or make their home more usable and livable.”
Eco Barge. Photo supplied: Libby Edge.
By Zach Houtenville
Four community groups across the Whitsundays have received a funding boost of up to $10,000 each, as Alinta Energy announces the first recipients of its Mt Challenger Wind Farm Community Fund.
From protecting the Whitsundays’ marine environment and educating the next generation to getting locals active and improving sporting facilities, the grants will support projects from the Whitsunday Conservation Council, Eco Barge Clean Seas, Healthy Kids Project and Bowen Golf Club.
“They will help people explore and better understand the region’s natural environment, learn more about protecting our seas, get active together and enjoy improved community facilities,” said Alinta Energy’s Head of Power Development (East Coast), Amanda Weston.
“We’re pleased to be able to give these organisations a hand to turn their ideas into action.”
The funding will support a number of specific projects across the four groups, including the Whitsunday Conservation Council’s Heart of the Reef Discovery Trail, the Healthy Kids Project’s Sugar2Sea run/walk event, a new fridge for Bowen Golf Club and upgrades to Eco Barge Clean Seas’ Reef Room Community Education Facility.
“This is really beautiful to help us keep going with our mission of cleaning the islands, protecting turtles, and educating on how we best protect our Sunday marine life from the threat of marine debris,” Libby Edge, the founder of Eco Barge Clean Seas.
“It's good to see that they are giving back to the community, I do know the community is very concerned - so they should be.
“But look, if this funding is going to help us promote, support and educate on how we all care for the reef, that's wonderful support to us.”
Ms Weston said the range of applications received highlighted the work already being carried out by community groups across the region.
“Local organisations understand what matters to their communities because they are part of them,” Ms Weston said.
“We saw thoughtful, practical proposals from groups committed to making the Bowen and Proserpine region an even better place to live, work and visit.”
However, the grants come with some mixed reviews, as some community members continue to protest the company’s Wind Farm proposal, with the Whitsunday Wind Farm Action group labelling the donations ‘disingenuous’.
“I believe it is inappropriate for Alinta to offer community grants while the proposed Mt Challenger Wind Farm is still at the feasibility and engagement stage, according to Alinta Energy’s project website,” said Sandra Mitchell, a Whitsunday Wind Farm Action, who lives near the northern end of the project still being proposed.
“Our community should be able to assess the project on its merits and express its views without financial incentives being introduced before approval is granted.
“Alinta still needs to significantly improve its community engagement, many residents in Bowen are still unaware of the proposed project and its potential impacts.”
Applications for the next round of grants will open in early 2027, as part of the organisation’s continued efforts to build stronger connections with the local community.
“While we couldn’t support every application in this round, we appreciate the time, care and local knowledge that went into each one.”
Protesters asking for a rethink outside of Whitsundays Electorate office. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville.
By Zach Houtenville
Whitsunday residents have thrown their support behind calls to reconsider a controversial State Development Bill, amassing 350 signatures on an open letter to Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm, before gathering outside her Proserpine office to express concerns surrounding landholder rights, community consultation and environmental protections.
The Whitsunday Conservation Council (WCC), alongside Save Our Foreshore, organised the protest on Tuesday 18th August, ahead of the State Development and Public Works Organisation (Critical Minerals) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2026being debated in Parliament.
The groups formally presented Amanda Camm’s office with the letter outlining their concerns in an effort to have their voices heard before next week.
“If this bill passes, it'll be a very black day for Queensland in that it removes many environmental assessments,” said President of the Whitsundays Conservation Council Tony Fontes.
“Amanda is a very important person in our community as our member of parliament.
“She has the opportunity to vote on this bill very shortly, which is why we're here today, as we're hoping that she will vote no.”
The Bill was introduced to Queensland Parliament by Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie on June 2nd, aiming to speed up and simplify decisions around major development projects, particularly in the critical minerals sector.
It proposes changes to the State Development and Public Works Organisation Act 1971, including new and expanded powers for facilitating significant projects, changes to land use and infrastructure planning for resources and heavy industry, and measures designed to streamline existing approval processes.
It is those expanded powers and streamlined processes that have drawn concern from the WCC and Save Our Foreshore, who fear faster approvals could come at the expense of landholder rights, community consultation and environmental protections.
WCC President Tony Fontes said his concern extended beyond impacts on private land, alleging the changes could also have consequences for the Great Barrier Reef.
“It basically strips away many environmental protections, which will impact not just terrestrial environments, but the Great Barrier Reef itself,” Tony said.
Save Our Foreshore expressed fear the Bill would concentrate greater decision-making power with the State while reducing public consultation.
“The Government exists to represent the people, not override them,” said Save Our Foreshore President Suzette Pelt.
“These new laws would hand sweeping and more extraordinary powers along with unilateral unaccountable authority to the Coordinator General and single Ministers.”
Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm has acknowledged the concerns raised by the groups and wider community.
“I acknowledge and thank the Whitsunday Conservation Council for their continued advocacy and also many across the community who have raised concerns around The State Development and Public Works Organisation (Critical Minerals) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2026,” said Amanda Camm MP.
Ms Camm highlighted safeguards for landholders, including at least six months of negotiations before compulsory acquisition could be considered, with the powers limited to State strategic projects.
She said landholders would retain rights to be consulted, object and receive compensation, while any proposal would require Parliamentary scrutiny, and advised that the bill ‘does not remove environmental approval requirements.’
“As a former farmer, I know Landholders need to be assured there are safeguards in place,” Ms Camm said.
“While the committee has recommended the Bill be passed it will be debated in Parliament and I will raise the concerns of my community.”
Photo source: Ocean Crusaders.
Airlie Beach Race Week’s Lay Day wasn’t all about sailors kicking back on the foreshore, with a different kind of crew taking to the water for a clean-up of the Whitsunday coastline.
The mid-week break from one of Airlie Beach’s premier sailing events saw Ocean Crusaders lead a beach clean-up cruise, with Ocean Rafting once again lending one of its vessels to transport volunteers to the clean-up sites.
Dedicated to protecting the marine environment, Ocean Crusaders combine community and commercial clean-up events with education around the importance of keeping rubbish out of the ocean.
The crusade saw 27 volunteers hop on board, and over the course of their 5 hour journey the team collected an official weight of around 550 kilograms, mostly consisting of boat parts, hard plastics, far too many beverage containers and an unusual amount of ‘floater’ golf balls.
OP-ED by Federal Member For Dawson Andrew Willcox
Every Australian family sitting around the kitchen table knows the reality, our standard of living is under severe pressure. Since the Albanese Labor government took office, Australians have experienced some of the steepest declines in living standards in the developed world. With national debt fast approaching $1 trillion and structural budget deficits locked in for a decade, Labor is spending more and taxing more, while households are forced to get by with less.
The challenge facing our nation is not just identifying these economic headwinds; it is putting forward a clear, constructive alternative. That’s why I’m often asked, what a Coalition government would do differently to steer the country back on track. The answer lies in structural economic reform that rewards hard work, protects aspiration, and respects the money you earn.
At the heart of our plan is a landmark policy designed to end secret tax hikes, the Tax Back Guarantee.
Under the current system, when your wages rise to keep pace with inflation, you can easily be pushed into a higher tax bracket. This process, known as "bracket creep," allows the government to collect higher tax revenues every year without ever having to pass a law. It penalises workers for simply trying to keep up with the rising cost of groceries, rent, and power bills.
It equally penalises businesses, too. Employers feel a genuine responsibility to increase wages so their workers can afford to live, yet these rising expenses drive up business overheads at a time when everyone is struggling to swim against a tide of high inflation fuelled by the Albanese Labor Government.
The Coalition will fix this by permanently indexing income tax thresholds to inflation. Starting in the 2028-29 financial year, we will index the bottom two income tax thresholds, a measure that will protect approximately 85 per cent of Australian income earners.
By year three, that relief would climb to $1,200 a year: providing a substantial, ongoing boost to household budgets when families need it most. From the 2031-32 financial year, we will extend this indexation to the top two thresholds, ensuring that no Australian is penalised with higher taxes simply because of inflation.
This is a fair, simple, and honest reform. It forces the government to live within its means rather than relying on inflation to balance the budget.
True economic recovery also requires us to scrap this new suite of toxic taxes that punish success and stifle investment. The Albanese Labor Government's approach is a direct assault on aspiration. It imposes higher taxes on housing, savings, investments, and small businesses.
This includes a 30 per cent tax rate on discretionary trusts, which acts as an inheritance tax by stealth on the family structures everyday Australians use to pass assets to their children.
This is why a Coalition government will repeal this entire suite of toxic taxes. We will reverse changes to negative gearing that restrict housing supply, undo capital gains tax hikes that discourage investment, and protect small businesses from punitive tax structures.
Furthermore, we will abolish the Safeguard Mechanism, removing a regulatory burden that inflates building material costs and drives local manufacturing offshore.
It is a basic economic reality that when you tax something, you get less of it.
If you tax savings, housing, investment, and small business, you get less of all of them. The Coalition wants more aspiration, not less, which is why we will back the hard-working Australians who want to get ahead.
By cutting these penalties on success, we are offering a positive, practical plan to restore home ownership, lower national debt, and secure Australia's economic future.
Photo source: Shutterstock
The Queensland Mining Awards brought together businesses and organisations from across the state’s minerals and energy resources sector, recognising the work being undertaken across an industry that plays a significant role in regional Queensland.
Now in its 12th year, the awards provided an opportunity for companies of all sizes, from mining operations to contractors and suppliers, to showcase their achievements and gain recognition from industry peers.
The awards covered a broad range of areas across the sector, including productivity, innovation, safety, collaboration, environmental initiatives, and community and staff programs.
Winners were announced at a Gala Presentation Dinner held as part of the Queensland Mining & Engineering Exhibition in Mackay in July, bringing industry representatives together to celebrate achievements across Queensland’s resources sector.
For businesses operating in regional communities, the awards provided a platform to highlight projects, initiatives and expertise beyond their individual operations. The program also created opportunities for businesses to build connections with industry representatives and decision-makers.
As a signature event of the Queensland Mining & Engineering Exhibition, described by organisers as Australia’s largest regional mining exhibition, the awards provided access to an audience of more than 600 industry decision-makers.
Entries were assessed through peer judging by senior leaders within the mining industry, allowing projects and initiatives to be considered by people with an understanding of the operational environment in which they were delivered.
The Queensland Resources Council was the major event partner, further connecting the awards with Queensland’s broader resources sector.
Beyond the awards themselves, finalists and winners gained opportunities for industry exposure, networking and business connections. The program also provided year-round marketing opportunities and national media coverage, helping to highlight achievements within Queensland’s resources industry.
For the regions, the awards offered an opportunity to recognise the businesses, workers and organisations contributing to an industry that extends well beyond mine sites. From innovative projects and safety initiatives to environmental, community and staff programs, the categories reflected the range of work taking place across Queensland’s resources sector.
The Queensland Mining Awards ultimately provided a forum to acknowledge that contribution, while giving businesses an opportunity to share their achievements with peers and a wider industry audience.
Congratulations to all the winners and finalists!
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