Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Fern with her daughter Zali, who she says is the reason she keeps fighting despite recent cancer re-diagnosis. Photo supplied A much-loved Whitsundays mother is once again facing an unthinkable battle after learning her cancer has returned, this time incurable. After nearly two years of remission, Fern Wilson is confronting a devastating diagnosis while continuing to care for her young daughter, Zali. Known for her warmth and resilience, she is now navigating the fight of her life with courage and determination. As she seeks new treatment pathways and holds tight to hope, the Cannonvale community is rallying behind her, organising a morning tea fundraiser to show support and help her continue this difficult journey ahead. Local Mum Refuses to Give Up After Cancer Comes Back A vibrant local single mum is at the centre of the community’s thoughts and prayers this week following news that her cancer has returned after almost two years in remission. Fern Wilson explains that she was first diagnosed with stage 3C ER/PR-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer in 2023, when a 13-centimetre tumour was discovered. At the time, she was given 12 months to live without treatment, so she underwent an intense treatment plan that included chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and a mastectomy. “It was one of the hardest periods of my life physically, emotionally, and mentally, but I kept fighting because my daughter gave me every reason to stay strong,” she shared. “Recovery was not just physical - it was emotional and spiritual as well. I had to learn how to reconnect with myself after so much loss and change. “My daughter Zali was my greatest strength and staying focused on being present for her helped me through the darkest days. “Support from close friends, family, and my community meant everything. I also focused on healing my nervous system, mindset, and finding peace where I could.” During this time, Fern travelled to Bali, where she began her journey with integrative natural health, working alongside traditional medicine. Returning to the Whitsundays after receiving news she was now cancer-free, Fern has spent the last two years embracing a healthy lifestyle, establishing herself in the local Cannonvale community, and enjoying time with her young daughter. Receiving news earlier this year that the cancer had returned shattered the idyllic life she had worked so hard to create. The tragic turn of events began when Fern started experiencing some bone pain from treatment, and further scans confirmed the worst. This time, however, the cancer is stage 4, metastatic and incurable, with a prognosis of 12 months left to live. “Hearing those words was devastating,” said Fern. “For a moment, everything went dark. The fear, the shock, and the uncertainty were overwhelming, and as a mother, your mind immediately goes to your child and their future.” Fern said her oncologist explained that surgery would not make a difference, and treatment options in Australia were no longer available, being mainly focused on management rather than healing. “I was also faced with difficult conversations around a scary 12 months prognosis, which completely changed everything for me as a mother,” she expressed. Feeling overwhelmed and in total despair, Fern made the brave decision to fly back to Bali, a place where she had found peace and healing during her last battle. Taking her daughter, Zali, with her, Fern has embarked on an integrative healing journey and, for the first time since the devastating news, feels hope. “I chose to return to Bali because I wanted access to integrative and supportive treatments that were not readily available to me in Australia,” she said. “Here, I am receiving therapies focused on supporting my immune system, improving quality of life, and helping my body as a whole. “This includes treatments such as high-dose intravenous Vitamin C, ozone therapy, nutrient IV therapies, and other supportive natural therapies. “Bali has also given me peace, healing, and the chance to be present with my daughter in a calmer environment while I continue fighting. “Cancer changes everything, but it also reminds you what truly matters—time, love, connection, and the people who stand beside you. “My greatest focus is my daughter and making sure she feels safe, loved, and supported no matter what happens.” A morning tea is being held in Fern’s honour, giving the community an opportunity to come together, raise money, and support this inspiring local woman in the battle of her life. Fern says she “does not have enough words to thank everyone” involved in bringing this morning together. “The kindness, generosity, and love from the Whitsundays’ community has been overwhelming. “To everyone donating prizes, attending the morning tea, reaching out, and supporting Zali and me—thank you from the bottom of my heart. “In times like this, community means everything, and knowing we are not alone gives me strength to keep going. “I also want to sincerely thank Zali’s father and his family for supporting me throughout my treatment journey. During some of the hardest moments, their support and care helped me keep going, and I will always be grateful for that. “I want people to know that even in the hardest moments, hope still exists. I am still fighting, and I am deeply grateful for every person helping us through this journey.” What: A Morning For Fern When: Sunday 17th May Time: 9am – 12pm Where: Belle Property Whitsundays
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MRQ Whitsunday Carries Out Calm Rescue On A Beautiful Sunday Afternoon On a beautiful Sunday afternoon reports came in that a hire boat 2nm north of Deloraine Island had suffered a mechanical problem. Although the engine was going, the propeller was not. This spurred MRQ Whitsunday to action. With pre-tasks completed, the team motored off towards Hook Passage, soaking in the scenery as ventured out into the sea. “We had vessel coordinates from a telephone, so we needed to convert them from the Degree Decimal format favoured by the telco giants to our more usual Degrees and Minutes,” shared MRQ Whitsunday. After emerging from Hook Passage, WS11 was directed to where the vessel was believed to be. “Lo and behold, there was a whit vessel on the horizon. This was going to be easy!” The team continued motoring and spotted the target 4nm away – “just where they said they would be.” The team approached the boat cautiously as there were beams on the waves. “I was about to request the crew to get ready with fenders and lines when, looking over the side, they were already set up. Great work team!” The crew set the towing hook and returned to Coral Sea Marina at a gentle 17 knots. The vessel was taken close to their berth. “Thanks again to the crew for making it easy.” The team were able to handle the situation with efficiency and professionalism that allowed them to enjoy the blissful afternoon weather as they conducted their task. Crew: Ray L, Nat R, Bob W Skipper: Bill H
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Everyone who has visited the Great Barrier Reef has a favourite fish. With more than 1,600 species weaving through its coral gardens, the Reef is a living kaleidoscope of colour and motion. But if the question shifts from “favourite” to “most important,” the answer becomes less about beauty and more about function. So which fish matter most to the Reef’s long-term health? While there is no single winner in such a complex ecosystem, one group stands out above the rest: herbivorous fish. These unassuming grazers are the quiet custodians of the Reef, performing a vital role that keeps coral ecosystems alive. On the Great Barrier Reef, there is a constant battle for space. Fast-growing algae are always ready to overtake the slower-growing corals. Without intervention, algae can quickly smother coral, blocking sunlight and preventing new coral larvae from settling. This is where herbivorous fish step in. By feeding on algae, they maintain the delicate balance between coral-dominated and algae-dominated habitats. Among the most important of these are parrotfish, surgeonfish and rabbitfish—species that act as the Reef’s lawnmowers. Parrotfish are perhaps the most well-known. Often called “reef cleaners,” they spend up to 90 per cent of their day grazing on algae that coats coral surfaces. In doing so, they prevent algae from overwhelming living corals and help create space for new coral growth. Their feeding also has another remarkable benefit: sand production. Using their powerful, beak-like teeth, parrotfish scrape algae from coral and rock, ingesting bits of coral skeleton in the process. After digesting the organic material, they excrete the remaining calcium carbonate as fine sand. A single parrotfish can produce up to 90 kilograms of sand each year—quite literally helping to build tropical beaches. Surgeonfish play an equally critical role. Acting as efficient grazers, they feed on turf algae and can make up a significant proportion of the Reef’s herbivore biomass. In some areas, they account for the majority of algae removal, helping prevent ecosystems from tipping into algal dominance. Rabbitfish, though less conspicuous, are just as important. They complement the work of other herbivores by consuming different types of algae, adding resilience to the system. This diversity of feeding behaviours ensures that no single type of algae gains the upper hand. Of course, the Great Barrier Reef is an intricate web of life, and no species exists in isolation. Every organism—from microscopic plankton to apex predators—plays a role in maintaining balance. But without herbivorous fish, that balance would quickly unravel. In many ways, these fish are the unsung heroes of the Reef—quietly working each day to keep one of the world’s greatest natural wonders alive. Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Conservation Council
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If you’ve been exploring the local property market lately, you may have come across a new and enthusiastic name: Nick Ianni. Recently stepping into the real estate industry as Sales Assistant to Rob Taylor at Taylor’s Property Specialists, Nick is already making an impression with his approachable style and genuine commitment to helping people. Nick brings with him a diverse background spanning sales, customer service, and hands-on rural work. Originally from Forbes in regional New South Wales, he grew up on the land, developing a strong work ethic, reliability, and a deep appreciation for community—qualities that now shape his approach to real estate. Now proudly calling the Whitsundays home, Nick says the move was an easy decision. “The lifestyle, the people, and the coastline—it just felt right straight away,” he shares. Settling into the region has only strengthened his passion for helping both locals and newcomers navigate the property market with confidence. Working closely with experienced agents Rob Taylor and Alex Swan, Nick is learning the ins and outs of the industry while contributing fresh energy to the team. His goal is simple: to make the buying or selling process smooth, enjoyable, and stress-free. “I want people to feel supported every step of the way,” Nick says. “Whether they’re ready to make a move or just exploring their options, I’m here to provide clear guidance and a friendly, down-to-earth experience.” With his strong values, enthusiasm, and dedication to personal service, Nick Ianni is a welcome addition to the Whitsundays real estate scene—and certainly one to watch as he builds his career in the region. For enquiries, Nick can be reached on 0472 675 428 or via email at nick@tpsre.com.au.
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Meet Poppet, a 6-year-old, pint-sized dynamo of a Jack Russell with a heart as big as her personality! Surrendered to Bowen and Collinsville Pet Rescue, this little lady is ready to steal your heart.
Poppet is a big fan of kids and is always up for a game or cuddle session. She's also got a curious streak when it comes to cats—she'll sit quietly and observe, trying to crack the mystery of their feline ways.
When it comes to road trips, Poppet is your co-pilot of choice! She absolutely loves perching herself in the centre console, ready for whatever adventure comes her way.
On walks, Poppet is a dream—she glides along on a lead like she’s walking on air. While she hasn’t been tested off-lead yet, we’re confident she’d rock that too with the right supervision.
Poppet would thrive in a home where someone is around often to give her the love and attention she craves. Could that be with you?
If you'd like to adopt Poppet contact Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc:
• Phone: 0459 757 455
• Facebook: Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue
• Email: bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com
Sex: Female
Breed: Jack Russell
Adoption Fee: $850
Kid friendly: Yes
Cat Friendly: Yes
Dog Friendly: Yes
Working Together for Growth: Strengthening the Whitsundays!
Progress happens when business, government, and community work together. Across all levels—local, state, and federal—we’re seeing a stronger commitment to collaboration, helping to advance major projects that will shape the future of the Whitsundays.
One exciting opportunity on the horizon is the push to bring Olympic sailing to the Whitsundays in 2032. Mayor Ry Collins has been actively advocating for our region to be considered as a host or co-host for sailing events, highlighting our world-class conditions, existing infrastructure, and global reputation as Australia’s premier sailing destination.
Hosting Olympic events here would deliver significant economic and tourism benefits, directly supporting local businesses and showcasing our region on an international stage.
Just as we’re working alongside government to drive large-scale projects, we’re also committed to supporting businesses at a local level. To ensure we’re addressing real-time challenges and opportunities, the Chamber will be activating a Proserpine Subcommittee and our strategic Chamber Advisory Group in the coming months. These groups will provide immediate feedback, shape advocacy efforts, and strengthen business connectivity.
Stay tuned for updates and outcomes from these meetings! If you’d like to get involved, we’d love to hear from you. Your voice matters in shaping the future of business in our region.
We’re on the hunt for creative designs for our new library bookmarks! Three lucky winners will have their designs professionally printed and shared in all four Whitsunday Regional Libraries!
PLUS, winners and two runners-up will receive $20 gift vouchers to the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, which can be used for cinema or live shows.
Judging categories are: Adult Design, Youth Design (12–18 years) and Junior Design (11 years and under).
Head to Your Say Whitsunday to download the template or pick up a hard copy from your local Library. Submit your design in person at your local Whitsunday Regional Library or email your them to info@whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au. Entries close 3pm, 15 May 2025.
NORTH Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) has held its first community reference group (CRG) meeting based in Bowen this week.
The inaugural CRG meeting reaffirms NQBP’s long-standing commitment to meaningful community consultation and engagement.
“NQBP is dedicated to fostering strong relationships between our ports and the local communities,” NQBP Chief Executive Officer Brendan Webb said.
“These meetings provide an invaluable forum for sharing updates on trade performance, key infrastructure projects, and environmental initiatives while allowing community representatives to voice their concerns and feedback,” Mr Webb said.
“We are committed to transparent communication and collaboration, ensuring that our projects take community expectations into consideration,” Mr Webb said.
“The CRGs serve as an active platform for building relationships, exchanging insights, and reinforcing our commitment to responsible port operations.”
“It was great to welcome our new members to the CRG.”
Hon Dale Last MP, Member for Burdekin said the consultation was vitally important for both the business community and residents in Bowen because NQBP is a major contributor to the town’s economy and liveability.
“The Bowen Jetty is important infrastructure as both an icon and a tourism attraction, so it is vital that the community was consulted with and had input into the future of that infrastructure.”
Topics of discussion during the meeting included an overview of NQBP’s economic impact, updates on the progress of major projects such as the Bowen Jetty, and information on NQBP’s sponsorships and donations program.
NQBP’s CRGs which are also held in Hay Point and Mackay have been a cornerstone of NQBP’s community engagement for more than two decades.
The CRGs include representatives from local residents, local government, local businesses, the port industry, traditional owner groups, and environmental groups.
For a list of the newly appointed CRG members and meeting documentation please visit www.nqbp.com.au.
The first meeting of NQBP’s Bowen and Abbot Point Community Reference Group at the Bowen Community Centre.
As cyclones are a current topic of discussion, we thought it might be useful to share a few notes about our experiences with them. When a cyclone system approaches our waters, the Harbour Master may close the ports to navigation. This means that vessels at sea within the affected area must seek shelter, and no new vessels should enter the waters. This is not the time to launch your tinnie for a family fishing trip.
Last year, with the approach of a cyclone, we were surprised to be activated by Queensland Police Service (QPS) and given an exemption to leave port in order to rescue a family stranded in their broken-down speedboat. Fortunately, the family was only a mile offshore, which meant it wasn’t as rough as it could have been further out. Still, the wind was ferocious.
The mother and children were crying, and the father was beginning to panic. It was far too rough to raft up to the boat, so we had to use a heaving line to get the tow line over to them. As the line was tossed, a gust of wind caught it and propelled it over the top of the boat. This actually worked in our favour, giving the father time to grab the line and attach the tow rope.
He requested to be taken to his mooring near the Sailing Club, from where he planned to use his tender to bring his family ashore. However, just as we were about to head to the mooring, his tender broke free. With the wind howling, an empty tender blew quickly across the water.
So, what to do? Having dealt with situations like this before, we circled back, passing the tender, turned around, and waited for it to blow back alongside us. Ray, was able to reach out with our long boat hook and snag the tender. He was nearly pulled overboard, but quick-thinking crew members grabbed him by the pants and pulled him back to safety. We secured the tender alongside and proceeded to the nearest mooring. Fortunately, with all the yachts having sought shelter, we had plenty of options for a safe mooring.
We were all relieved to head back to the safety of our berth at Coral Sea Marina.
If you’d like to help us in our mission, please consider becoming a volunteer by visiting: vmrwhitsundays.com.au/volunteer/ and find out how you can get involved.
Contributed with thanks by Shane Newell, VMRW President.
At Explore Property, they’re experts in property marketing and all things real estate, and passionate about promoting their business, as shown by their exciting giveaway! From March 1st to June 28th, anyone who books a sales or rental appraisal with Explore Property Whitsunday and likes and follows their Facebook page, could win a brand-new MG3 valued at $20,000, complete with 12 months of registration.
Even if selling your property isn’t on the cards, this giveaway is for everyone. Simply book a price update or request a rental proposal and you're in the running, no listing required! This is the perfect opportunity for anyone interested in staying up to date with their property’s value while having the chance to win a fantastic auto prize.
To enter, simply visit www.explorepropertywhitsunday.com.auand register your details, book an appraisal, and make sure to follow their Facebook page for the winning announcement. It's a simple and fun way to get a property update and score the chance to drive away in a brand-new automatic MG3!
The winner will be drawn randomly on June 29th, 2025, so don’t miss out! The car is here and waiting for its new owner, so act quickly. For full terms and conditions are available on the Explore Property website so, what are you waiting for? Explore your property and explore your chance to win today!
Bowen Tourism and Business (BTB) is running an Easter colouring-in competition for local students from Prep to Year 4. The students from Bowen State School, Merinda State School, Queens Beach State School and St Marys Catholic School have the opportunity to take part by colouring in a pic of Kenny the Mango Mascot.
The competition will be judged by Bowen Tourism and Business volunteers and the prizes will be special merchandise packs from the Bowen Visitor Information Centre including a Kenny plush toy, water game and an ice-cream. There will also be fun encouragement awards for those who put in great effort.
The competition closes well before Easter on the 24th of March, this is so the entries can be displayed at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre for all visitors to see, and there will be two prizes for every grade at each school. The competition is being organised by BTB Sales and Admin Consultant, Cindy Tonks, who came up with the idea.
“We are very much looking forward to seeing the student’s artwork and displaying them on our wall at the Visitor information Centre,” she said.
Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said "This was all about community engagement and getting kids involved and interested in tourism,”
“The response from the schools has been fantastic and we are also looking forward to a special presentation once the competition had been judged,” she said.
Bowen State School Head of Curriculum, Therese Smalley visited the centre last week to check out the prize packs and she said all the kids are very excited to be celebrating Easter in Bowen.
Bowen Tourism and Business Sales and Admin Consultant Cindy Tonks and Bowen State School Head of Curriculum Therese Smalley with the Easter colouring-in competition and the prize packs. Photo Provided: Leanne Abernethy
We've been experiencing very hot conditions and have been greatly appreciating the air conditioning in the clubhouse during our midway break.
On Wednesday, Henny Tattam, John Anderson, and Sandy Daffara defeated Henny Tattam, Bruce Uhe, and Barry Zillmann 24-12. Alen Sanderson, Philip Brown, and Mike Harrison triumphed over Michele (a visitor from Italy), Arthur Griffith, and Heather Brown, winning 20-18.
In Sunday's afternoon Social Bowls, Trevor Parsons and Heather Brown narrowly defeated Arthur Griffith and Dale Haack 21-20. Alen Sanderson, Bruce Uhe, and Mike Harrison defeated John Anderson, Philip Brown, and Sandy Daffara 27-16.
The green's drainage works are progressing very well. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to this effort.
Contributed with thanks by the Secretary of the Proserpine Bowls Club.
International Women's Day was celebrated in style at Jubilee Tavern over the weekend. Everyone got involved selling raffle tickets in the weeks leading up to the draw and placing eye-catching posters and signs to spread the word for Zonta’s campaign of ‘Say NO to Violence Against Women.’
“I just think they're doing a magnificent job. And also, by doing this event for us, they're actually getting the word out that it's not right to abuse women and children,” says Dianne Trueman, an Ex President of Zonta Whitsunday. Both Dianne and Marlene Reiffel, the Current Zonta President, attended the raffle to help announce the winners of the delicious draw prizes.
“We've been very excited and I think Jubilee Tavern has been fantastic. They’ve got all the signs up, the posters, and they've even got all those balloons on the stage,” said Marlene, “They've really embraced the whole International Women's Day and enjoyed sending that money to support Zonta.”
Maz Scott the Functions Manager and Bistro Supervisor, was going from table to table until the last moment before the raffle selling tickets. She said, “I’m so excited to support International Women's Day I've never had the opportunity to do so before. And so, it's pretty special that I get to be a part of it this year.”
Ryan the Venue Manager, was the raffle MC and said he was very proud of his staff.
“It’s been a great experience as it's really touched a lot of the staff here. They really resonated with it, so they really actioned it and really went for it. It was nice to be able to give them that opportunity and I really enjoyed tonight. It’s great to see a lot of people supporting worthy cause.”
The participants of the raffle managed to fundraise over $600, all donated to the Zonta Whitsundays. For three of the raffle winners, it was a serendipitous occasion. One table were in town for a holiday and just decided to eat at Jubilee Tavern that night, and collectively, they won the great Zonta prize box and bubbly champagne, along with the giant BBQ meat tray. The other in-house winner of the night had only just bought his raffle ticket 15 minutes before the event started, but his luck saw him take home the grand seafood platter.
Maz, the winner of the seafood platter, Marlene, Ryan and Dianne. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
Jubilee Tavern presents the $670 to Zonta. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
Laine Shaw and her daughter Amelia, winners of the meat tray. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
The shared footpath project on Renwick Rd is making significant progress, with completion expected by the end of the month—weather permitting. This much-needed upgrade will improve safety for students, families, and pedestrians, with several key developments underway.
A new fence is being installed along the footpath near Proserpine State School to ensure a secure environment for those using the path. With the school's drop-off car parks now reopened, the final phase of the project is set to focus on completing the remaining 80 meters of footpath that will extend to Stanbury St. The installation of raised priority pedestrian crossings on key intersections like Stanbury St, Keith Johns Dr, Fuljames St, and Carnation St will further enhance safety, allowing students and families to cross more safely.
While traffic management measures are in place to mitigate congestion, the community is encouraged to stay updated on the progress through the Your Say Whitsunday Online Engagement Portal. These efforts are supported by the State Government’s Cycle Network Local Government Grants Program.
As the project nears its conclusion, it’s clear that these improvements are vital for ensuring pedestrian safety and easing traffic flow in the area. With the promise of better infrastructure, the community is one step closer to a safer and more accessible Renwick Rd.
Last weekend the Greater Whitsunday Vets held an open day for their brand-new Proserpine clinic. It was a great, albeit hot, day with many visitors coming from all over to see the clinic and browse the stalls. There wasn’t a plain face in sight as all the children proudly showed off their new looks thanks to the free face-painting booth.
"Over 750 people attended our new clinics open day,” said Georgia Bowser, Practice Manager, recounting that the day was a great success. She wanted to give thanks to their sponsors and partners for providing support allowing the day to go off without a hitch: Provet, Lisa from Royal Canin, Ainsley from Hills, Jaime from Zoetis, and Jason from MSD.
There was much to see and do, from clinic tours to 32 market stalls to peruse. You could even register yourself and your pet with the clinic staff to enter into a raffle! All the stalls and prizes were local or animal related, so many took home a piece of Proserpine that day, whether that was a brand-new bridle for their horse or a fabulous Hawaiian shirt decorated with the regions map. You could even adopt a hand-crocheted chicken!
“More than 100 people took part in our clinic tours, and they also enjoyed petting our little piglet, baby guinea fowls, alpaca, and dogs. They were a huge hit with the visitors especially the children,” said Georgia, “Rilo, with her ice cream van, was kept busy all day thanks to the hot weather!"
The new clinic was happy to have received such support on their open day, from the bush to the beach, they’ll be here for you 24/7 for you animal emergency. Or book in an appointment for one of their many offered services!
The new Proserpine clinic is open Monday – Friday: 8:30 am - 5.00pm and their Bowen clinic is open Monday – Wednesday & Friday 8:30am – 5pm, and Thursday: 8:30am - 7pm. Please know that both clinics are closed on the weekend.
From small pets to horses to livestock, the Greater Whitsunday Vets Services are here for all you animal needs.
(Vet Liaison), and Charlotte (Vet Liaison) signing up new clients. Photo Credit Victoria Velton.
Front: Dr Jason Mansfield seated, Caitlin (Vet Liaison), Charlotte (Vet Liaison), Back: Melissa Mansfield (Administration), Charlee (Floor Nurse), Georgia Bowser (Operations Manager). Photo Credit: Victoria Velton
In Proserpine, Home Brewitt has quickly become a go-to destination for hobby brewers of all kinds, offering everything from ingredients to equipment for brewing your own beer, and mixing spirits. The store, which opened its doors a year and a half ago by husband-and-wife duo John and Caroline McGovern. It’s a labour of love driven by the passion of John, an avid home brewer, and his wife, who is equally enthusiastic about the experience.
Their diverse customer base, which stretches from Mackay to Bowen, and even the Isaac region, is a testament to how well the business has been received. Whether you're a first-time brewer or a seasoned pro, Home Brewitt has something for everyone. “People are always happy to come here because it's their hobby," Caroline says, "They love talking about their craft.”
The store offers a wide variety of ingredients for brewing, everything from beers and ginger beer to spirit flavouring, sarsaparilla, and hard lemonade mixes. The couple takes pride in providing not only the essentials but also the more unique, specialty ingredients you won't find in typical hobby brew shops. “We have everything from the raw ingredients all the way to the final equipment they can use to pour their own beers from their home taps,” she explains.
If you’re just starting out, they make it easy with starter kits. For just $100, you get everything you need to brew 23 litres of high-quality beer, including the raw ingredients and equipment. These starter kits allow home brewers to craft flavourful beers with minimal effort. And for those who are more adventurous in their brewing, Home Brewitt provides a variety of flavouring options to enhance your creations.
Whether it's adding a unique twist to whiskey or gin with special flavourings, or using wood chips to infuse rum with oaky-smoky, the possibilities are endless. "People like to make it to their own flavour, changing the profile to how they like it," says Caroline, noting that customers often turn their brews into thoughtful gifts.
The store also thrives on giving great personalised advice: “We try to provide all the advice we can and if we don’t have the answer, we try to find the answer, and we work together,” says Caroline. John’s experimentation with different beers is a big part of what makes the store’s selection unique. “He doesn’t stick to one recipe. He likes to experiment with different things, which is why I think we have some products that you don’t see very often in other hobby shops,” she adds.
For those with a brewing passion, Home Brewitt is more than just a store—it's a community where people can share knowledge, discover new flavours, and take pride in crafting their own drinks. It's a small business with a big heart, where every customer is treated like family, and the experience is as much about learning as it is about brewing.
Caroline behind the counter, with a home brew tap and some of their other products on display. Photo Credit: Victoria Velton
Caroline with all their beer flavour options. Photo Credit: Victoria Velton
The Whitsundays has long been a beloved destination for LGBTQ+ travellers, especially during the late 90s when Daydream Island was affectionately known as "Gay Dream Island", for travellers holidaying after Sydney’s Mardi Gras. Nathan Fleming, a pillar of the Whitsundays LGBTQ+ community for over 20 years, remembers those days fondly. "Back in the day, the late 90s, Daydream Island was a popular hot spot. After Sydney Mardi Gras, everyone would head up here and have a big party session in the Whitsundays," Nathan recalls.
But despite the excitement of that era, there was a long stretch of silence. Pride events were rare, and LGBTQ+ representation was all but absent. "There hasn't really been anything (Pride events). It's only this year they've actually sort of done something about Pride Week," Nathan explains. Pride Week 2025 saw a revival as for the first time in years, several local businesses embraced LGBTQ+ tourists with a series of events, from Sundowner’s Pride cruise to the Magnums drag shows, and the Airlie Beach Hotel’s Gaga vs. Pink tribute shows. This marked a hopeful turning point for the region.
Nathan, openly gay and well-respected within the Whitsunday community, reflects on his journey. "I was a drag queen representing the Whitsundays one year, and my drag name was Sandy Inlet," he laughs. His involvement in local events and initiatives helped bridge the gap, ensuring visibility for LGBTQ+ individuals. “People all know about me because I’m very open about it. I don’t hide anything.”
With his partner Benny and their two dogs, Jethro and Rufus, Nathan is proud to live and work in a place that is gradually becoming more inclusive. "The community are really accepting of it, and they're taking them in with open arms," he says. This growing acceptance has encouraged other local businesses to step up, hoping to make the Whitsundays a more welcoming destination for LGBTQ+ tourists. Nathan’s role in GALTA (Gay and Lesbian Tourism Australia) has further solidified the region’s commitment to inclusive tourism.
However, the journey has not been without its struggles, with Nathan reflecting on moments of exclusion. But his response? “You’ll respect the people in this group and everything that we have to say, we're a diverse group of people.” The resilience and spirit of the LGBTQ+ community are undeniable, and the local support has only strengthened over the years.
As the Whitsundays looks ahead, Nathan is optimistic. He hopes that Pride Week next year will see even more events, building on the success of 2025. “There’s a lot of support from local businesses, and it’s clear that the Whitsundays is becoming a place where LGBTQ+ travellers can feel welcome and celebrated,” he shares.
For now, Nathan and the community stand proud, waving the flag for progress. His legacy of openness, support, and inclusion continues to inspire. The Whitsundays, once a haven for LGBTQ+ travellers in the 90s, is experiencing a queer renaissance. With a commitment to growing acceptance and support from both locals and tourists alike, this beautiful corner of Australia is ready to welcome more LGBTQ+ with open arms into its Heart.
For more LGBTQ+ safe and welcoming tourist destinations, groups and travel advice, check out: visitgayaustralia.com.au
Nathan Fleming, representing the Whitsundays as Sandy Inlet at GAYTE in 2023. Photo Supplied: Nathan Fleming
LGBTQ+ tourists enjoying themselves in the Whitsundays. Photo Supplied: Nathan Fleming
Nathan Fleming in his before and after transformation to Sandy Inlet at GAYTE 2023. Photo Supplied: Nathan Fleming
Maree Franettovich has been providing career coaching over many years – guiding professionals with individualised support to find their purpose toward a fulfilling career. Whether it’s graduates looking to launch their careers, or professionals looking for career progression, Maree’s approach focuses on professional growth and personal wellbeing.
Feeling stuck in your career can be demotivating, and impacts other aspects of your life. You want to explore a change but are not sure where to start. If you choose to do nothing instead of taking action, then nothing will change. Whether you are considering a career uplift, switch or shift – that’s where Maree can assist.
“We’re here to help you take action and work through the steps to create your personal Career Action Plan.”
It helps to have independent support to explore your options and dream big! It’s about having someone ‘on your side’ and believe in you.
All too often women are self-sabotaging opportunities, often without realising. It can surface as procrastination, perfectionism, pressure paralysis, settling for second best, convincing ourselves it’s not the right time or the ‘Am I good enough?’
A Career Action Plan identifies your strengths, interests, opportunities and aspirations. By working through what you want to achieve, your Career Action Plan provides direction, motivation and clarity.
Maree’s extensive experience of working with women (and men) across a range of demographics and industries has assisted many progress their careers and navigate transitions with confidence. If you want to explore becoming ‘unstuck’ in your career, visit the CareerForce Australia website and get in touch.
careerforceaustralia.com.au
Cent sales are always billed as ‘mega’ but Sarina Arts and Craft Centre’s upcoming event will be exactly that.
Centre manager Jenny Costello and a core group of helpers are putting together an amazing collection of prizes for the sale, at the Sarina Sporting and Services Club on Saturday, March 8.
“We’ve had a marvelous response from business, organisations and people within the Sarina and wider Mackay area as we’ve been collecting for the sale,” Jenny said.
“We have lots of high-quality prizes, and our major prizes are terrific.
“As well as the prizes there will be multi-draws, raffles, money boards and a lucky door prize.”
Doors open at 10.30 for a noon start.
Bookings can be made (not essential) by phoning Jenny Costello on 0414735787.
WHAT: Sarina Arts and Craft Centre's Cent Sale
WHERE: Sarina Sporting and Services Club
WHEN: Saturday, March 8 at 10am
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