Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Local tourism operators are expressing concern toward troubling times ahead, with the federal government’s new visa restrictions set to shrink the backpacker workforce that drives seasonal operations. The Federal Government’s proposed cuts to Working Holiday Visas have raised concerns across two of the Whitsundays’ biggest industries. Bowen farmers warned that fewer backpackers could leave crops unpicked, and now tourism leaders in Airlie Beach have added that the same cuts could leave local businesses scrambling to find workers that aren’t there. At Airlie Beach’s Heart of the Great Barrier Reef sign, Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth and Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins spoke about what the proposed changes could mean for a region that relies heavily on tourism. “We can't have Airlie Beach named Australia's top tourism town in the small category and then have the knees cut out from us by federal policy,” Tim said. The proposed changes form part of the Federal Government’s effort to reduce migration, a topic that has been of hot debate by all three parties that Mayor Ry Collins believes the working holiday visas should be separated from. “Obviously the federal government is really coming in with broad brushstrokes to try and address the publicly perceived issue around net overseas migration (NOM),” said Mayor Collins. “Some of the dialogue I heard last week in Canberra was actually taking that working holiday maker class completely out of the NOM calculation. “I think that's a fair and reasonable way that they can make the numbers look as good as they want but it won't affect the actual number of workers that are here to support our industries.” The new restrictions look to cut the second-year extension on Working Holiday Visas from 57,000 to 45,000 slots, and 3rd year extension from 31,000 to just 5,000. According to Tourism Whitsundays, the Whitsundays hosts about 3,500 backpacker workers at any given time of the year. “I think for regions like the Whitsunday’s unemployment rate is lower than the national average by 0.9%, so at a 3.5% unemployment rate, we just don't have the workforce there that can pick up these roles that the working holidaymaker delivers for our communities,” Tim said. According to figures released by Tourism Whitsundays, in the year ending March 2026, domestic visitors spent $959.1 million in the region and international visitors spent a further $271.8 million. This spending was made possible by the abundance of workers delivering those experiences. “[Working holidaymakers] do a terrific job already in delivering world-class experiences, particularly here in the Whitsundays,” said Mayor Collins. “We do see working holidaymakers really take up that mantle, particularly in areas like customer service roles, hospitality roles, housekeeping roles... “What we're asking for is that we can stay strong as an entire tourism industry.” Having just returned from Canberra, the pair said raising regional and statewide voices is crucial to persuading the Federal Government to reconsider how the proposed restrictions would apply. “And then at a federal level, obviously through our federal member Andrew Wilcox, but we've also engaged with the members of the Labor Party around that as well. “But unfortunately it's starting to feel like a number of issues that we're campaigning on…along with things like disaster recovery funding arrangements which was one we linked into last week.” Photo caption: Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins and CEO of Tourism Whitsundays, Tim Booth. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville
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In this world of AI and other technological advancements, you don’t want to be the person who wanders around the office like a big old clumsy Tyrannosaurus Rex bumping into all the youngsters and stepping on their laptops and other devices. It’s one of the challenges of our times; getting the balance right in business in a world that is increasingly controlled by AI, robotics and a rapidly changing IT environment. I remember, some years ago now, when older family members had refused to embrace computer technology and mobile phones etc. They were really left behind and felt excluded in a world that had moved ahead without them. I’ve got a 19-year-old son who doesn’t have to think about it. Current and evolving technology is part of his life and, like others in his age group, he is completely at ease with something that is just part of his make-up and comprehension of the world around him. The trap you can fall into is letting the kids do all the IT stuff for you. My son set up our old TV with all the streaming services etc, which was the easy option for me, but I find it’s important to get involved and do it yourself otherwise everything will move ahead and you won’t be able to do things for yourself. But I am still stuck in some of the old ways. If I am ordering a takeaway meal I still ring the restaurant and go and pick it up. The old T-Rex wanders into the Thai or Indian joint and picks up his plastic bag of goodies, pays, and drives home. There aren’t many of us left. Uber Eats baby. Everyone has embraced it. My wife and daughter were having dinner together in Brisbane recently and my daughter noticed that her stockings or tights had “run” or a ladder in them. My wife suggested she jump in the car and drive to a nearby supermarket and get another pair. But my daughter ordered a new pair to be delivered to the restaurant by Uber. They were there in a jiffy and the night continued without the pesky interruption of having to leave the restaurant to buy them. It’s a great example of the modern world making things easier and how many of us need to ensure we are adjusting and understanding how things can now be done. There is another side to the coin, however. People have told me that I should get AI to write my columns. They say I could give it some examples of columns I have written and give it an idea for a new column and tell it to knock out 600 words on my chosen topic in my style of writing. It’s something I would never do. Apart from the fact that it would somehow seem like I was cheating, it would also not be authentic. I feel that however boring or pedestrian my stories and comments are, at least they are mine. They have come from my noggin, my experiences. It is my take on the world, not something that has been cobbled together by artificial intelligence. It’s similar in the world of real estate and, I’m sure, business generally. You need to embrace the technology, use it when it creates a better service, a superior experience for buyers and a better result for sellers. But there is still a place for picking up the phone and calling buyers, following up from open homes, doing the hard work that needs to be done as an agent. In a world of AI, robotics and Uber Everything the human element, the person-to-person connection still needs to happen to deliver good service and create the best result for clients.
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Maisy is a beautiful little soul who seems to understand that the very best place in the world is right beside someone she loves. She is affectionate, gentle, social and wonderfully trusting. She loves curling up on a welcoming lap, snuggling into your arms and settling close enough to make you feel as though you have always belonged together. Maisy is generous with her purrs, her cuddles and her sweet little air biscuits. She even places her paw in your hand as if to say, “I choose you.” But this gorgeous girl is not only a champion snuggler. Maisy is playful, curious and full of kitten joy. She loves exploring her toys, chasing anything that moves and turning ordinary moments into entertainment. She will happily amuse herself, but everything is even more fun when her favourite person joins in. She has that perfect combination of affection and personality, soft and loving when it is time to cuddle, and playful and bright when it is time for fun. Maisy will bring warmth to your home, companionship to your days and a little paw to hold whenever you need it. If you are looking for a kitten who will play with you, curl up with you and love being part of your life, Maisy may be the girl you have been waiting for. Maisy has been desexed, microchipped, received her first vaccination, been wormed and is litter trained. She is ready to begin her beautiful new life as a much-loved indoor companion. To arrange a meet and greet with Maisy, please call Ros on 0403 814 318.
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Tarren McAuley, Web Director and Co-Owner I remember when those AI posters started popping up – the first one looked kinda different. By the end of the week, when I’d seen 30 of them, I was much less enamoured + actively scrolled past anything that had that telltale paint smear style font. It’s not that the quality had gotten any worse between me seeing that first one + when I was sick of them by the 30th. But it was no longer novel or original. I think AI is especially susceptible to this because as soon as someone discovers a winning formula, everyone else jumps on the bandwagon, but because everyone is getting similar outputs, it gets old – quick. I think brands can fall into a similar trap. Humans are always looking for inspiration + when seeking it out, where better to look than the other players in your field. If you’re a tech company, you’re going to look at Samsung, Apple + the like. But when that happens too much, you get a feedback loop of samey-ness. For me, this is best exemplified by airline logos. Look at Qantas + Virgin, probably the two biggest brands in Australia. Both use a red plane-like icon, w/ their logo in big letters next to it. Bit cherry picked but even the other big players’ logos are similar - Emirates uses mainly red + shakes it up by having a slightly more exotic font. Jetstar ditches the red for orange + has their icon at the end but it has similar visual markers. This isn’t unique to logos, like w/ the poster example earlier – it could be your social tiles, your website or even your company email sig. Whatever it is, if you wake up one day + notice that the other businesses around you are looking a bit too similar, that should be your sign to start looking at a rebrand to shake off the rust + re-establish your unique identity. You know, until the cycle repeats again!
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Still deciding whether to attend?
Here are five reasons why the Whitsunday Business Conference deserves a place in your diary.
1. Practical ideas Hear strategies and insights you can implement immediately.
2. Inspiring speakers Learn from business leaders and regional experts who understand today's challenges.
3. Valuable connections Meet fellow business owners, suppliers, and decision-makers from across the region.
4. Explore the Business Expo Discover products, services, and opportunities that could benefit your business.
5. Continue the experience Finish the day with the inaugural Chamber Games – a fun celebration of teamwork and community.
One day away from your business could change the next twelve months within it.
Join us on Thursday 27 August and invest in your business, your team and your future.
Tickets are on sale now.
All photos supplied by Julia Evans.
The best conferences don't just inspire – they equip you with ideas you can use the very next day.
That's the philosophy behind the 2026 Whitsunday Business Conference speaker line-up. Every presenter has been selected because they bring practical experience, proven expertise, and a genuine understanding of the challenges facing regional businesses today.
Leading the program is keynote speaker Ian Cohen from Cozalive, whose engaging presentation will challenge attendees to rethink the way they communicate, market, and build their brand. Through real-world examples, practical insights, and plenty of humour, Ian will explore how effective communication can strengthen reputation, increase visibility, and create tangible commercial opportunities.
Across the day, delegates can tailor their own Conference experience by choosing from a series of interactive concurrent sessions covering the issues shaping the future of business.
If you're looking to work smarter, Associate Professor Rachel Hay and PhD candidate Naomi Porter from James Cook University will demonstrate how practical systems, artificial intelligence, and work-integrated learning can reduce administration, improve productivity, and strengthen workforce capability without overwhelming your business.
For businesses wanting to secure larger opportunities, Damien Dederer from Abbot Point Operations and Bowen Rail Company and Mick Spencer from the Australian Agave Project will discuss how regional businesses can better connect with major industry, strengthen local supply chains, and capture more of the value created in our region.
People remain every business's greatest asset, and leadership specialist Michele Tocci will share practical strategies for creating psychologically safe workplaces where employees feel confident to contribute ideas, solve problems, and help businesses innovate.
Cash flow continues to challenge even profitable businesses. Gus Walsgott from the Small Business Financial Counselling Service North Queensland will unpack common financial pitfalls and provide practical tools to improve cash flow, identify warning signs early, and strengthen long-term financial sustainability.
Marketing also takes centre stage through a practical panel discussion featuring Tolita Dukes from 8 Seconds and Melissa Ardern from The Creek Whitsundays. Together, they'll explore what's working in today's marketplace, including building brand visibility, using AI effectively, creating efficient marketing systems, and turning your brand into a genuine competitive advantage.
Whether you're looking to grow your business, build a stronger team, improve cash flow, embrace AI, sharpen your marketing, or connect with major industry opportunities, you'll leave with practical strategies, new perspectives, and the confidence to put ideas into action.
Because great businesses aren't built by knowing more – they're built by applying what matters most.
Chamber President, Allan Milositc with Mayor Ry Collins. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie.
Running a business has never been more challenging. Rising costs, workforce shortages, artificial intelligence, changing customer expectations, and increasing regulation are reshaping the way we work—and standing still is no longer an option.
That's why the 2026 Whitsunday Business Conference has been designed to deliver one thing: practical value.
Hosted by the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry, this year's Conference will bring together business owners, government, educators, and entrepreneurs for a full day of ideas, connections, and opportunities that can be put into practice immediately.
Forget theory. This is a program built around regional success stories, practical solutions, and conversations that matter.
Attendees will hear from inspiring speakers and build their own Conference experience by choosing from interactive sessions on leadership, workforce, artificial intelligence, marketing, productivity, innovation, and business growth – ensuring every delegate walks away with practical insights relevant to their business.
Whitsundays Chamber President Allan Milostic said the Conference continues to evolve alongside the needs of local businesses.
"The business landscape is changing rapidly, and our role is to ensure local businesses have access to the ideas, people, and opportunities that help them stay competitive," Allan said.
"Whether you're looking to solve a challenge, discover a new opportunity, or simply reconnect with the wider business community, the Conference is one of the best investments you can make in yourself and your business."
Learning is only part of the experience. Throughout the day, delegates can connect with suppliers, exhibitors, government representatives, and fellow business owners before continuing conversations over the Conference Long Lunch.
No matter your industry or stage of business, you'll leave with fresh ideas, valuable contacts, and renewed confidence for the year ahead.
One day. Endless possibilities for your business.
If you're going to invest a day away from your business, it needs to be worth it.
That's exactly what the 2026 Whitsunday Business Conference has been designed to deliver.
No fluff. Just practical ideas, valuable connections, and fresh thinking to help you work smarter, grow stronger, and tackle the challenges facing business today.
Better still, it's a conference designed by Whitsunday business owners, for Whitsunday business owners.
7:30am | Coffee & Conversations
Arrive early to catch up over coffee and juice before the formal program begins. This is where the conversations start.
8:30am | Think Differently
Keynote speaker Ian Cohen will challenge the way you think about branding, communication, and reputation – sharing practical strategies that can create lasting commercial value for your business.
10:00am | Build Your Own Conference
No two businesses are the same, so your Conference experience shouldn't be either.
Choose the sessions most relevant to your business, covering topics such as:
You'll leave with ideas you can put into practice immediately—not six months from now.
12:50pm | Keep the Momentum Going
The learning doesn't stop when the presentations finish.
The Conference Long Lunch and Business Expo provide the opportunity to meet exhibitors, discover new products and services, explore procurement and funding opportunities, and continue conversations with fellow business owners.
Here's a more editorial version that highlights the value to delegates rather than reading like a list of exhibitors:
From finance and insurance to telecommunications, workforce development, education, media, procurement, and major project opportunities, you'll connect with organisations that can genuinely help move your business forward. Meet representatives from Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine, Brisbane 2032, Club Whitsunday, James Cook University, nbn Co., Option Insurance Brokers, StarFM, TAFE Queensland, Whitsunday Life, and Whitsunday Regional Council's Corporate Services, Procurement and Investment Attraction teams – all in one place, all ready to connect with local business.
The best business opportunities often begin with a conversation.
The Whitsunday Business Conference creates dozens of them in just one day.
Bring your team. Bring your questions. Leave with ideas, contacts, and opportunities that could shape your business for years to come.
The Whitsunday Business Conference is more than a one-day event – it's a community effort, made possible by businesses and organisations that are committed to supporting a stronger, more connected Whitsundays.
The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry sincerely thanks this year's Conference partners, exhibitors, and supporters for investing in an event that brings together local businesses to learn, connect, and grow.
This year's partners include Whitsunday Life, Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine, Club Whitsunday, PCYC Whitsunday, AWB First Aid First, Brisbane 2032, James Cook University, Mrs Bean Coffee Van, nbn Co., Option Insurance Brokers, Rilo Real Fruit Ice Cream & Smoothies, Smooth Sailing Finance Consulting, StarFM, TAFE Queensland, and Whitsunday Regional Council.
Their support helps the Chamber deliver an affordable, high-quality Conference featuring inspiring speakers, practical learning sessions, valuable networking opportunities, and an interactive Business Expo showcasing organisations that support regional business success.
There are still a limited number of exhibitor opportunities available.
If your business wants to showcase its products or services, generate new leads, and connect with more than 100 business owners and decision-makers, now is the time to secure your place.
To enquire about exhibiting at the Conference Long Lunch and Business Expo, contact the Chamber team today on admin@whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au
Students from Asaka Nishi High School in Japan spent 8 days in Proserpine with host families from Proserpine State High School. Photo credit: Whitsunday Life
Proserpine State High School recently welcomed students from Asaka Nishi High School in Japan for as part of a longstanding sister school program that has been in place since 1997.
The Japanese students have been staying with Whitsunday host families, and getting a taste of Aussie weather and wildlife; experiencing the Great Barrier Reef Festival, taking an Ocean Rafting Trip, and getting up close with native animals through Wildlife Whitsunday.
Head of Department for English & Languages Corinne Raiteri said that the exchange is an opportunity to learn language skills and foster cross-culture connection, also built through virtual connection during the school year.
“We have Japanese here as a language, and one of the one of the things that we do is we get the kids on Teams so that they can talk to each other.” Corinne explained.
“If they know each other personally, it's even more effective in terms of learning. Having having that interplay between them is fantastic, and it just builds relationships further.”
“It’s been so awesome to give them new experiences,” said Proserpine State High student Myka Kelly.
“She’s been teaching me some Japanese… it’s been super fun!”
Pupils Ruby Lou and Nahla Bullen said they’ve made great friends and learnt ‘heaps’ of Japanese through the program, bonding with the Japanese students over their shared interests.
4th Annual Crazy Hat Day turnout.
From fedoras to sombreros, students donned their most colourful and creative headwear last Thursday for a cause that continues to hold a special place in the Proserpine State High School community.
Now in its fourth year, Crazy Hat Day was established in 2023 in memory of former Year 10 student Cody Gibbs, who passed away from brain cancer the year before.
Wanting to do something special in memory of their friend, a group of Cody’s classmates approached the Student Council with the idea of holding a fundraiser, with former student Olivia Murphy helping bring the first Crazy Hat Day to life.
The students chose to support Hummingbird House after hearing from Cody’s friends who had spent precious time with him there during his final days.
Four Crazy Hat Days later, students have now raised more than $10,000 for Hummingbird House, including around $3,000 from this year’s event.
“I think it’s one of the things I’m most proud of that I’ve seen in my time here,” Student Council coordinator Scott Casey said.
“It was genuinely student-driven.
“The kids have wanted to keep it.”
This year, that responsibility was taken on by Year 12 Student Council Executive members Wiremu and Sam, who helped organise the day and encouraged their fellow students to get involved.
Although the pupils are a few years younger than Cody and didn’t know him when he was still in school, the pair said they understood how much his story meant to the school and wider community.
“We didn't have to go to school with him to know that his journey, and the journey that he took with Hummingbird House, was special,” Wiremu said.
Donations remain open for those wishing to support Hummingbird House: https://fundraise.wmq.org.au/fundraisers/ProssieHigh/2026-crazy-hat-day-iv
Pupils from schools across the Whitsundays recently travelled to CQUniversity Mackay for the Year 12 QATSIF (Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Foundation) Graduation on 11th August, celebrating the efforts, achievements and journeys of 2300 Year 12 QATSIF graduates.
It was a wonderful opportunity to come together and celebrate the incredible efforts, achievements and journeys of 2,300 deadly Year 12 QATSIF graduates from across Queensland, and to wish them all the very best as they embark on the next stage of their journeys.
“We are incredibly proud of all three of our Emerging Leaders for representing our College at this special event,” said a representative from St Catherine’s Catholic College.
“Congratulations, Reef, Andrew and Brianna!
“We are particularly proud of Brianna, who was selected as co-MC for the event. Brianna did an incredible job helping to lead the celebrations and represent our college with confidence and pride.
“Wishing all of the 2026 QATSIF graduates every success, happiness and deadly opportunities for the future!”
Bowen State High School also congratulated their QATSIF graduates, sharing:
“The ceremony was even more special as our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students were invited to perform their contemporary dance from our NAIDOC Celebrations. They did an amazing job!
“Kala Auda also had the honour of lighting the Torres Strait Islander candle on behalf of the students.
“A special thank you to Michael and his QATSIF team for your amazing leadership and support for our students. Thank you to everyone that made the ceremony a great success.
A shout out to our deadly students for your dancing and support for your peers.”
Congratulations to all graduates that took part – we look forward to writing about the incredible things you do in your futures!
Every community has people who simply get things done.
They're the ones setting up before everyone else arrives and packing up after everyone has gone home. They're coaching kids after work, running sausage sizzles on weekends, checking in on neighbours, planting trees, raising money for good causes or serving on committees because they genuinely care about where they live.
Most never ask for recognition. In fact, they'd probably tell you they're just doing what anyone else would do.
But I don't think we should ever take those people for granted.
That's why nominations for the 2027 Whitsunday Australia Day Awards are so important.
These awards are about recognising the quiet achievers and local champions who help make our region a better place to live. They remind us that strong communities are built by people who are prepared to roll up their sleeves and lend a hand.
Every year I have the privilege of reading the nomination stories, and they never fail to inspire. Some nominees have dedicated decades to local sporting clubs, while others have made an incredible difference through volunteering, community service, environmental projects, the arts or simply being there whenever someone needs support.
We also have some amazing young people in our region who are already making a positive impact, and these awards are a great opportunity to acknowledge their efforts as well.
There are categories recognising achievements in sport, arts and culture, environmental stewardship, community service and volunteering, along with awards for outstanding community groups and the prestigious Citizen of the Year and Young Citizen of the Year.
If you've ever thought, "They deserve some recognition," now is the time to act.
A nomination doesn't have to be perfect. It simply needs to tell the story of why that person or group has made a difference and why they deserve to be celebrated.
I know there are countless unsung heroes right across the Whitsundays whose contributions often happen behind the scenes.
Let's make sure they receive the recognition they've earned.
Nominations close at 4pm on Wednesday, 30 September 2026. I encourage everyone to think about someone who's made a difference in your community and put their name forward. It could mean far more to them than you realise.
Sharon Ashman.
Anxiety can affect the way we think, feel, and respond to everyday experiences. It can create a cycle of worry, physical tension, avoidance, and reduced confidence.
While psychotherapy remains one of the most effective treatments for anxiety, research increasingly highlights the value of combining psychological strategies with regular exercise to support recovery and long-term wellbeing. Over the coming weeks we will explore why combination of psychotherapies and exercise gets the best results
Psychotherapy, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), helps people understand the connection between thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. Through therapy, individuals learn to identify unhelpful thinking patterns, challenge anxious beliefs, develop coping strategies, and gradually face situations they may have been avoiding.
Exercise complements this process by supporting changes within the body and brain. Physical activity helps regulate stress hormones, improves mood-related chemicals such as serotonin and dopamine, and reduces physiological tension associated with anxiety.
Exercise can also help individuals become more comfortable with physical sensations linked to anxiety, such as an increased heart rate or faster breathing.
Together, psychotherapy and exercise create a powerful mind–body approach. Exercise does not need to involve intense workouts. Walking, swimming, yoga, gardening, cycling, or gentle strength training can all provide benefits. The goal is regular movement that feels achievable and sustainable.
For many people, recovery from anxiety is not about eliminating all anxious feelings, but learning that anxiety can be managed. Psychotherapy provides the tools, while exercise helps reinforce confidence, reduce stress, and reconnect people with their bodies.
“If you’d like more support in managing ADHD for yourself or your family, visit my website https://www.personaltransitions.com.au/ or give Cristie 0488667264 or me 0418708214.”
Queenslanders waiting for elective surgery are set to receive treatment sooner, with the State Government expanding its Surgery Connect program to help reduce wait times and restore people's mobility, independence and quality of life.
Backed by a $247 million investment in the 2026–27 State Budget, the program has already delivered more than 35,000 additional procedures across the state. The latest funding will also bring 11 new service providers on board, including in Mackay and Townsville, improving access to surgery for regional Queenslanders.
Member for Burdekin Dale Last said the addition of new service providers and bolstered funding was good news for anyone waiting on life changing surgery with thousands of additional procedures supported by the program.
“Procedures like cataract surgery, joint replacements and ear nose and throat surgeries significantly improve a patient’s quality of life,” Mr Last said.
“Research has proven that long delays waiting for these procedures means symptoms worsen, pain increases and there is an impact on the patient’s mental health.”
“This is why we are partnering with providers to ensure these patients can access these surgeries sooner.”
Mr Last said the Crisafulli Government's $1.8 billion investment in elective surgery was already delivering results, with the statewide elective surgery waiting list falling to 58,496 patients. He said the reduction followed years of rising demand, with the list reaching a high of 66,632 after increasing year on year over the previous decade.
“Since February 2025 more than 35,000 procedures have been delivered and in turn helped stabilise the Queensland elective surgery waitlist.”
“Besides the obvious benefits for patients, Surgery Connect reduces the pressure on our health staff who, through no fault of their own, have been forced to delay surgeries.”
The Whitsunday community continues to show its willingness to rally behind those in need, with the Whitsunday Escape raffle raising an incredible $45,600 to support Lucy Scarrott in her fight against cancer.
The Charter for a Cause raffle kicked off nearly two months ago, offering locals the chance to give back to four-year-old Lucy after she was diagnosed with medulloblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer that has required her family to relocate to Brisbane while she undergoes treatment.
Determined to lend a hand, Whitsunday Escape launched the fundraiser with the help of Geoff St Clair and Kim Mitchell, who generously donated a five-night charter aboard their brand-new Seawind 1370, Sidetracked.
The holiday, valued at around $11,000, was offered as the major prize, with 1,000 raffle tickets made available at $50 each and proceeds going towards Lucy and her family.
By the time the raffle closed on the 31st July, 912 tickets had been sold, bringing the final amount raised to $45,600.
“We were blown away by the community response, both locally and from the Whitsunday Escape Community,” said Jaclyn Watson, general manager of Whitsundays Escape.
“We are so grateful to the owner for donating the charter on his brand-new boat, and to the Proserpine Lions Club for supporting us to run this raffle and collect the money, as well as distribute it to the family.”
“It really has been a community effort and we are so humbled to be part of it.”
For Lucy and her family, that funding comes at a vital time. Lucy just finished 30 complete rounds of radiation therapy and is nearing the end of her first seven cycles of chemotherapy.
The family says she’s dealt with the treatment better than expected, though it has begun to start taking its toll.
Depending on where she is in each treatment cycle, her blood counts and whether she is battling any viruses or infections, Lucy has been swapping in and out of patient care at the Queensland Children’s Hospital.
For the family, the generosity from back home has allowed them to stay together, giving them the chance to devote their time to being by Lucy’s side.
“It means we can spend this time together as a family and focus on giving Lucy the support she needs,” the family said.
“It is a long hard road for Lucy, so being able to surround her with family every step of the way truly means the world.”
While the raffle has now wrapped up, those still wishing to donating to Lucy and her family can do so through their GoFundMe page:
Proserpine Mill processed close to 82,300 tonnes of cane for the week, which is the highest weekly throughput for the season to date. The season total is now just over 572,000 tonnes.
Average weekly CCS came in above budget, at 14.22 units. The highest weekly CCS sample for the week was 17.00 units, from a rake of KQ228 plant cane in the Kelsey Creek District.
Harvesting operators are again reminded to follow siding procedures when delivering or collecting bins.
These procedures are designed to safeguard the safety of all users and maintain the efficient operation of our sidings. Please check that all your operators have completed the mandatory siding induction.
Our cane trains work around the clock, seven days a week, so please continue to use your train brain and always take care around the cane rail network.
Seven people are facing 24 charges after police targeted a string of alleged break-ins, thefts and other offences across Bowen.
Bowen Criminal Investigation Branch Detectives, assisted by Whitsunday Tactical Crime Squad Officers, executed several search warrants as part of Operation Mackay Essence in late July.
Officers also conducted 43 street checks and 383 roadside breath and drug tests as part of the crackdown.
One of those arrested was a 22-year-old Bowen man accused of committing several offences across the area between 16th - 22nd July.
Police allege the man entered a Champion Street facility on 17th July and stole a vehicle, before attempting to enter a Don Street business the following day. On 21st July, he is suspected of entering a Linley Street hotel and stole tools, a firearm and ammunition, before a further alleged break-in at a Peter Delemothe Road business on 22nd July.
The 22-year-old faces multiple charges, including entering premises, willful damage, unlawful use of a motor vehicle and stealing a firearm or ammunition. He remains in custody and is due before Bowen Magistrates Court on 1st September.
A separate investigation saw a 20-year-old Bowen man charged over several alleged incidents between 16th and 21st June involving stolen fuel, a trailer and other property, as well as the alleged unlawful entry of a Linley Street premises.
He faces two counts of stealing, along with one count each of stealing a vehicle and entering a dwelling with intent and is due before Bowen Magistrates Court on 18th August.
After the crash. Photos supplied by Rogin Taylor
After 61 years in the cockpit, experienced Whitsunday pilot Rogin Taylor has walked away uninjured from another frightening incident after his aircraft collided with an airport utility vehicle on the runway at Whitsunday Coast Airport.
At 5pm on Saturday 8th August, Whitsunday Sports Aviators Club president and Proserpine Aero Club vice-president Rogin Taylor was bringing his Atec Zephyr into Whitsunday Coast Airport, where he planned to leave the aircraft ahead of a four-day flying safari around North Queensland with four mates.
After touching down on Runway 11, Rogin said he spotted an airport utility vehicle stationary about 100 metres ahead.
With the aircraft already committed to the landing, he veered right in an attempt to avoid a head-on collision, but the left wing struck the vehicle, snapping off and spinning the plane around completely.
“It was distressing, actually a little bit frightening,” said Rogin.
Despite the impact and damage to the aircraft, Rogin escaped the collision without injury, although he said damage to the cockpit controls made it difficult to climb out.
Rogin said he expected the vehicle to move clear of the runway before his aircraft reached it, believing the driver had seen him in time. He claimed the driver later told him he had been unable to see the approaching plane due to the setting sun.
The incident also disrupted operations at Whitsunday Coast Airport, with a departing Jetstar service delayed while the aircraft’s debris remained on the runway.
Whitsunday Regional Council acknowledged the incident in a statement following the collision.
“The safety of passengers, airport personnel and all airport users remains Council’s highest priority,” Council said.
“The incident has been reported to the relevant aviation authorities and is currently under investigation.”
“As the matter is under investigation, Council will not comment further on the circumstances of the incident at this time.”
This isn’t the first time the seasoned pilot has survived a frightening incident, having previously watched one of his aircraft burst into flames and, in 2022, survived a crash into the Proserpine River.
That crash left his aircraft completely submerged, with the pressure luckily freeing both Rogin and his passenger from the plane before they spent around 40 minutes swimming to shore through the most densely crocodile-populated river in Queensland.
Despite all this, Rogin is unwavering in his love for flying, and even has plans of getting back in the plane sooner than you’d believe.
“I just put it all behind me,” Rogin said.
“I also have another airplane which I'll probably fly later this week.”
Amanda Camm MP, Premier David Crisafulli, students from Proserpine state high school and St Catherines Catholic College cutting the ribbon and officially opening the new office. All photo credit: Zach Houtenville.
Amanda Camm MP has officially cut the ribbon unveiling the new Whitsunday Electorate office in Proserpine, drawing in all types of community members, alongside a surprise appearance from Premier David Crisafulli.
The new office marks a fresh chapter for the Whitsunday electorate, with Ms Camm welcoming and thanking guests through the doors to celebrate the opening alongside her staff, community representatives, students and volunteers.
The Premier was among those in attendance, making a surprise trip to Proserpine to help officially open the office, cut the ceremonial ribbon and chat with attendees, while sharing his optimism for the future of the community.
“There is a future, let me tell you there is a future, and you're living it and you're feeling it at the moment,” Mr Crisafulli said in a speech at the opening.
“[Amanda Camm] loves the community, she’s served it across two levels of government, she believes in you and she fights hard for you.”
Ms Camm used the gathering as an opportunity to recognise several standouts within the community who have gone above and beyond through their time and commitment.
Among those recognised was Lyn Burke, who received a special acknowledgement for her contribution to the community, alongside Val and Michael Kimpton for their efforts in delivering the recent Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival, and Shane from Fierce Signage in Mackay for his quick work installing the new signage in time for the grand opening.
She also recognised members of her electorate team, thanking them for the work they do behind the scenes to support her and the wider Whitsunday community.
“There are so many people here who contribute so much, but really go above and beyond with their time and their commitment,” Ms Camm said.
“In doing so, it really showcases our community as well.”
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