Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Photo source: Whitsunday Anglican School (Facebook) Whitsunday Anglican School’s Kindy to Year 2 students enjoyed a fun-filled Athletics Carnival, with young athletes taking part in running, jumping and throwing events while showing plenty of enthusiasm, determination and House spirit. Supported by Senior School volunteers, the day celebrated participation, encouragement and the strong sense of community across the school. See more photos here: www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/little-legs-big-spirit-at-whitsunday-anglican-schools-kindy-carnival
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Leading Mackay real estate business REMAX Select has announced the appointment of highly respected business professional Samantha Self as General Manager. The appointment is set to further strengthen the agency's high-performing team across the Mackay region, with Principal Nikita Kinnane describing Ms Self's arrival as an exciting step forward for the business. “We are heading in a really exciting direction with our business, and I cannot be more excited to have Samantha join our leadership team to build on that momentum,” Ms Kinnane said. Ms Kinnane said the recruitment process was focused on finding a leader whose values aligned with those of the business, it was Ms Self's shared commitment to those values and vision that made her the ideal candidate. "Samantha will play an important role in shaping the future REMAX Select, bringing exceptional experience in property, management and leadership to help drive growth and innovation, and this will flow into enhancing every aspect of our business. "Importantly, Samantha shares our core values and commitment to putting Mackay first, and we share the same drive to really make impactful change, bring big city ideas and execute them in our own country girl way.” It was the core values of respect, integrity, collaboration, excellence and trust that Ms Self aligned with, sharing her goal to continue to build on the trust and integrity the agency has established in Mackay, while supporting the continued growth and development of both the team and business. “I’m excited to take on the role of general manager and work alongside Nikita and the entire team at REMAX Select,” Ms Self said. “REMAX Select has a strong team with exceptional talent which is highly respected throughout the community and I’m excited to be part of its continued success.” Ms Self steps into the role after eight years as retail manager of the largest shopping centre in northern Australia. During that time, she was the key driver of building positive, collaborative relationships with retailers, creating an environment where retailers were genuine partners in success. Having led sales performance analysis and market insight initiatives, Ms Self said she looks forward to applying her knowledge and experience to support the continued success of the REMAX Select team. “I am dedicated to empowering our team members through training and development opportunities, ensuring they have the tools they need to succeed,” she said. “My goal is to continue to foster the team’s culture of professionalism, responsiveness and customer-first approach and I look forward to collaborating with our talented agents and staff to create a dynamic and successful environment here at REMAX Select.” REMAX Select is an award-winning real estate business, recently recognised as the 2025 REIQ Medium Agency of the Year and finalist at the 2026 REIA National Awards for Excellence. The office consistently ranks in the National Top 10 Offices in the REMAX Australia network, recognised as the #3 individual office for commissions and transactions at the REMAX Australia Annual Awards 2025 earlier this year, where they were also named a finalist for the network’s community service award and special achievement in marketing for an office award. REMAX Select is located at 133B Victoria Street, Mackay. Contact (07)4829 4612 or visit remax.com.au/select/ for an award winning real estate experience. Newly appointed General Manager, Samantha Self (Left) with REMAX Select Principal Nikita Kinnane (Right).
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In 2000, Peter and Denise Phillips laid the foundation for what would become one of Mackay’s most recognisable holistic, all in one property, insurance and financial services ecosystem. Starting as a Mortgage Choice franchise, Gardian was built on a commitment to helping people make confident financial decisions with local people in the know! Over the decades, that foundation has steadily evolved. Today, Gardian encompasses a wide range of services, including all manner of finance, general and business insurance, financial planning, real estate sales, property management, and commercial sales, management and leasing. What began as a single offering has grown into an integrated business model serving individuals, families, businesses, and community across the region. Now, the organisation enters its next chapter. After many years at the helm with her late husband Peter, Denise Phillips will step down from her role as Managing Director. Her leadership has been central to Gardian’s growth — not just in size, but in culture, reputation, and its connection to the local community. Taking over the role is Ben Phillips, Owner/Director and Head of Gardian Finance. Having been closely involved in all aspects of the business and its clients, he brings both continuity and a forward-looking perspective to the position. Leadership transitions often mark defining moments for organisations. In this case, the change represents both the continuation of a strong legacy and the opportunity to build on it. The evolution of Gardian — from a small franchise to a diversified advisory group — reflects the importance of adaptability, strategic growth, and staying aligned to core values to the community. For the Mackay business community, this transition highlights the strength of long-term vision and succession planning, particularly within locally grown enterprises. It also reinforces the impact that leadership grounded in community and relationships can have over time. As Gardian moves forward under new leadership, it does so with deep roots, a clear purpose, and a platform built for continued growth.
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I don’t know about you, but I find morning TV hosts incredibly annoying. I rarely get to see them, with their contrived laughter, over-the-top friendliness, stupid nicknames for each other, make-up and perfect hair cuts. But sometimes, if there has been some event that might interest me, or if I’m curious about what’s going on, I might flick on the TV and see what’s happening as I’m getting ready for work. I immediately regret it and start flicking channels to try to find someone bearable. It’s a challenge that usually lasts a couple of minutes before I turn the TV off and do something much more pleasant, like go to work. I did like Karl Stefanovic but he has been flicked, apparently because his employer didn’t like his podcast guests. There seemed something real about Karl but he was an island in a sea of fakery so there’s no point in me turning on Channel 9 anymore. There’s an Irish journalist/host on ABC TV, Catherine Murphy, who I also like. She’s funny and real and seems to want to stick to simply presenting a story in her slightly quirky style without imposing an agenda. But that’s about it for me. One thing the morning shows have an abundance of is “experts”. Whatever the drama that’s emerged, there’s an expert to explain it to you, pull it apart and tell you how concerned you should be. The expert needs to do it in about 17 seconds because everyone is going to get bored soon and we’ve got an ad break coming up. The more dramatic the event and the more it impacts the loyal viewers, the more vital it is that an expert is on hand. The current disaster of note it a neat combo: the economy/inflation/interest rates/housing downturn. This is the type of news drama you want when you’re planning the show because it affects the viewers, hits their hip pockets. But experts are everywhere in the media on this one, not just the morning shows. They’re out there giving their views on interest rates (some say they will go up, others say they will go down), the economy (some say it will be okay, others say we are headed for a recession), inflation (some say it will get worse and others say it will ease). Part of this blockbuster, of course, is house prices. Some experts say prices will drop in big cities like Sydney and Brisbane. Others say they will drop everywhere. Some say there will be a small, temporary drop but things will soon start going up again because there is a lack of housing supply across the nation. One group of experts that are worth paying attention to are the valuers from Herron Todd White, who put out their monthly property clock, which is a snapshot of how they see particular markets. The position on the clock face a particular city is located (we’re talking analogue here kids, not digital) tells you where it sits in the market. Twelve o’clock is top of the market, 3 o’clock is a falling market, 6 o’clock is the bottom of the market, 9 o’clock is a rising market. Things can change quickly and there a times a property can go from falling market to bottom of the market and up to rising market very quickly. HTW’s June clock would have been a challenge for them because tax changes and other events had happened but their longer-term impacts are unclear. They had Bundaberg and Toowoomba at the top of the market, Sydney at 2 o’clock and starting to decline, The Whitsundays, Gladstone and Sunshine Coast approaching the top of the market and Mackay, along with Rocky, Townsville and Cairns, in a rising market. Most agents in Mackay will tell you there has been a change but there is still activity, investors are still engaged and properties are selling. Most are being alert, not alarmed.
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Nestled along the pristine waterfront of the Coral Sea, Marina Shores Airlie beach offers guests an unparalleled fusion of luxury, style and striking views. My recent tour of this exquisite property, under the guidance of the knowledgeable Ross Martin. Demonstrated why Marina Shores raises the bar for luxury living in the Whitsundays. From its elegantly designed accomodations to it’s enviable amenities, Marina Shores is a for seekers of indulgence and serenity.
The tour commenced with a journey through the property’s diverse range of rooms, each painstakingly tailored to maximise comfort and capitalise on the stunning surroundings of the Whitsunday coast. On the ground floor, I viewed the one-bedrom apartments. These spacious units exude modern grace and elegance, with open-plan layouts and large windows that warmly invite natural light. Ascending to the second floor, Ross introduced the two and three bedroom apartments, Which offer Garden, Marina or Ocean views. Ideal for families or groups, these cosy abodes provide ample space and private decks perfectly suited for soaking in the beauty of the Whitsunday Islands.The highlight however, was the third-floor penthouses. Available in two, three or four-bedroom layouts, these lavishly luxurious suites boast both Marina and Ocean views, featuring expansive decks perfect for entertaining guests or quiet reflection. Designed by renowned Ken Down Architects, every room at Marina Shores features vogue interiors, state-of-the-art lightning, and a harmonious interplay of space, light and colour.
Beyond luxury accomodation, Marina Shores offers amenities which uplift the guest experience to even greater heights. Ross proudly showcased the large, heated pool, a standout feature that ensures year-round enjoyment for guests, especially on cool winter nights. The property’s viewing platform cosily tucked away in the back was a personal favourite. This vantage point presents a panoramic view of the surrounding woodland and marina, furnishing guests with a serene spot to relax and unwind. These excellent facilities combined with the fully self-contained, serviced apartments, serve to make Marina Shores a must stay destination which caters to both relaxation and sophistication.
Ross also shared insights into the broader portfolio of the at Hotel Group, which manages Marina Shores. The group oversees an impressive 1,010 properties across Australia, including eight in Airlie Beach, They also operate the Grand Mercure on the tropical gem of Magnetic Island, and a Mantra property in the quaint coastal retreat of Nelson Bay. This diverse collection underscores the group’s commitment to delivering exceptional hospitality in some of Australia’s most sought-after destinations.
Marina Shores is the jewel of Airlie Beach’s crown. Situated at Abel Point Marina and offering wonderous waterfront living with views spanning across the Whitsunday Islands. The property’s design prioritizes pure decadence, with spacious decks, luxurious finishes, and an ambiance of both exclusivity and inticement. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family holiday, or a lavish escape, Marina Shores delivers an experience as unforgettable as the Whitsundays themselves. For those planning a visit, this property promises not just a stay, but the experience of a lifetime.
Waterview Apartment in Marina Shores. Photo Supplied.
Apartment Room In Marina Shores. Photo Supplied.
Bedroom in Marina Shores. Photo Supplied.
By Ruth Puddefoot
Blink and you’ll miss them, but catch a glimpse and you might think you’ve discovered an alien lifeform. Nudibranchs are the ocean’s most flamboyant residents: tiny, slow-moving sea slugs adorned in neon colours, wild patterns and surreal shapes. Like living confetti, they drift across the seafloor. For divers in the know, spotting one is a very special moment.
These vibrant creatures come in an astonishing array of shapes, sizes and colours. Yet despite their dazzling appearance, nudibranchs can be surprisingly difficult to find, often camouflaging perfectly with their surroundings.
They inhabit a wide range of marine environments, from shallow rock pools and coral reefs to sandy seabeds and the dark depths more than 2,000 metres below the surface. As benthic animals, they spend their lives crawling along the ocean floor.
But nudibranchs are more than just a visual delight. As carnivores, they play a vital role in the marine food web, feeding on sea anemones, sponges, soft corals, tunicates and other invertebrates, while also serving as prey for other sea slugs, crabs, lobsters, turtles and even humans. Most of their time is spent grazing or hunting for food.
To eat, many rely on a specialised, toothed structure called a radula, used to scrape or tear food from surfaces. Some species go further, injecting prey with digestive enzymes before sucking out the liquefied tissues. Others have developed a remarkable partnership with symbiotic algae, harnessing sunlight to produce energy in a process similar to corals.
Beyond their ecological role, nudibranchs are gaining recognition as important indicator species. Their populations respond rapidly to changes in the environment, making them valuable barometers of ocean health. A sudden increase or decline in nudibranch numbers can signal broader environmental shifts, particularly those driven by climate change. As coral reefs are one of their preferred habitats and are among the most vulnerable ecosystems, the presence of nudibranchs can reveal much about their condition and resilience.
Fast fact: Nudi's were unknown until the 18th century
Hi everyone,
As promised, here is the extended edition of Ruth2Reef!
I’m excited to bring you three full pages of fascinating environmental news from around the Whitsundays.
In this week’s edition, we explore the geological history of the Whitsundays and how the region was formed, dive into the vibrant world of nudibranchs, and share some amazing reef and whale facts.
I spotted my first nudibranch a few weeks ago and it was absolutely beautiful. It was tiny, bright blue, and slowly making its way across a coral formation.
If you have an environmental story for me please send it to ruth@lifepublishinggroup.com, I would love to hear from you!
Ruth
"We can't just continue living as if there was no tomorrow, because there is a tomorrow." - Greta Thunberg.
Only one more week until the big dance – election day is next Saturday. Candidates will be making their final pitches. Chances are though, many voters have already made up their minds and are heading for an early vote. Early polling opened this week and people can cast their vote anytime from now until polls close on May 3rd.
At the 2022 election 32.2% of eligible voters chose to cast their vote before polling day with another 15.9% sending in postal votes. That is a whopping 48.1% of Australian voters had made up their minds early. Many political commentators expect to see a similar figure replicated this year. However, many suggest that while there is a large block of voters who have long known where their vote is headed, a large number are still undecided.
With so many voters this year still undecided, could we see a late surge in support for one of the two major parties or maybe like in 2022 will votes be parked with minor parties and independents?
The betting agents say a hung parliament is on the cards which will result in a drawn out declaration of who forms government. In 2010, the Labor government hung onto power via a minority government before a comprehensive victory by the Coalition in 2013. Could history repeat?
The fallout of the election will make for interesting watching as the outcome usually sees decisions on the futures of political careers made. Unless there is a definitive victory, behind closed doors the caucus of each political party will discuss, debate and unpack the election and decide if a new leader will be best to take them forward.
There is some speculation that Albanese already has one eye on his NSW Central Coast property and unless Labor win a majority this will be his last trip to the big dance. The school of thought is that if the Coalition claim victory his resignation from parliament will be weeks or months after the election, and if Labor secure victory but via a minority, he will pass the baton on half way through the term. Doing this would give time for a new voice to take over and if need be pivot central polices in the hope of avoiding a landslide outcome like that of 2013.
Both Albanese and Dutton are spruiking confidence that they can secure a majority government. They both say they have a plan for Australia’s future.
If Albanese is thinking this could be his last campaign, is he going to pull some last minute moves and throw a Hail Mary or can Dutton successfully sell the Coalition’s message for a majority? Either way, the outcome as to who will lead Australia for the next 3 years will be known soon, albeit if there is a hung parliament there may be a bit of a delay.
Bottom line – Leaders are not forever but the direction the country takes under their leadership can be long lasting.
The price tag for Labor’s failed ‘Voice’referendum hit more than half a billion dollars. At a
time when Australians are doing it tough, that money could have helped ease cost of
living pressures, putting food on the table, covering rent, or paying power bills.
Here in Dawson, I hear from families every week who are struggling just to get by. Cost of
living pressures are crushing our local communities, yet the Albanese Government chose
to pour hundreds of millions into a divisive referendum that failed to deliver any practical
outcome.
Nearly 61% of Australians said “No,” and in Dawson, more than 80% rejected Labor’s
‘Voice’ proposal. The message was clear: Australians want unity, not more bureaucracy.
On top of this failed and expensive referendum, Labor has made no real impact in
improving the lives of indigenous people living in remote communities.
I made my position clear from the start. Like many here in Dawson, I saw the Voice as the
wrong approach, out of touch with real community needs. The failed referendum
highlighted how disconnected Labor is from ordinary Australians.
The Coalition believes in one Australia, united under one flag, proud of our history, and
inclusive of both Indigenous and non-Indigenous cultures. As Prime Minister, Peter
Dutton has committed to representing all Australians with leadership grounded in
common sense and shared values, vowing to stand in front of just the Australian flag.
Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price, a proud Indigenous Australian with firsthand
experience of life in remote communities, will be a strong Minister for Indigenous Affairs
in a Coalition government, focused on real outcomes, not symbolism.
We’ll invest in better housing, health, education, and jobs where they’re needed most, delivering
practical change to close the gap.
A Coalition government will focus on practical solutions that bring Australians together
and not waste tax payer’s money on creating division and more bureaucracy. We
understand the strain on everyday Australians, from struggling families, to young people
finding their way into work and housing, and to pensioners on fixed incomes.
By cutting unnecessary government spending, reducing red tape, and supporting local businesses,
the Coalition will help ease cost of living pressures. We’ll invest in housing, job creation,
and make it easier for first-time homebuyers to enter the market.
Unlike Labor’s divisive agenda, the Coalition is committed to uniting the country and growing a stronger, more prosperous future for all Australians.
A Dutton/Littleproud Coalition Government will focus on what unites us. We will grow a
stronger, united future.
The Coalition is ready to lead — one people, one future, under one flag.
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP with Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price who could be a strong Minister for Indigenous Affairs in a Coalition government. Photo supplied
Proserpine has a rich military history dating back to the Boer War and since then generations of men and women from this community have answered the call. Some made the supreme sacrifice and are remembered on our cenotaph. Others suffered the horrors of being a prisoner of war, either dying in captivity or returning home as shadows of their former selves.
It would have been heart-wrenching for families to watch their sons head off to war, but imagine what it must have been like for those who saw more than one child enlist. Such was the case for several families in Proserpine in both world wars.
In World War Two, four of five Farrell brothers; sons of James Joseph Farrell and Mary Teresa (nee Brennan) volunteered to serve their country. Further adding to the anguish that must have been felt at this time, Mary Farrell, known to most as Tessie, was a widow having lost her husband in 1938. To add to her heartache, two of her boys died on active service.
In this feature, we pay tribute to the four brothers Farrell and we thank them for their service.
Lance Corporal Jack Thomas Farrell QX11230 (2/26th Battalion - F Force) POW Died on Active Service
Born December 3 1918, Jack (John) enlisted at Miowera on July 3 1940 along with several other Proserpine men and was deployed to Singapore in 1941. Captured when the Japanese over ran Malaya, he spent several years in various Japanese prison camps and worked on the construction of the infamous Thai-Burma Railway line.
Soon after the family received word of his safety, they learnt that his years of captivity had undermined his health and he was placed on the army’s dangerously ill list. On October 27 1945, Jack returned to Australia on the hospital ship “Manunda”. He was taken to Concorde Military Hospital but sadly died on October 29 only two days after arriving in his home country. His mother was enroute to Sydney by train to meet Jack but in Brisbane she received the sad news by telegram of his passing away.
Lance Corporal Jack Farrell is buried in the Sydney War Cemetery, Rockwood. He is remembered on the Proserpine Cenotaph and his name is located at Panel 53 in the commemorative area at the Australian War Memorial.
Joseph Farrell QX 24851 (2/7TH Battalion) KIA
Born June 22 1922, Joseph, whose real name was Patrick but known as Joe, was the youngest of Farrell brothers. He signed up on January 1 1942. Joe was killed in action. He died at Mubo on August 23 1943 during the Salamaua – Lae campaign in New Guinea with the 2/7th Battalion. He was reinterred on May 5 1946 in the Lae War Cemetery SB 12 and is remembered on the Proserpine Cenotaph.
James Joseph Farrell QX27969 (Z Special Unit)
Born August 8 1911, James, known as Jim, was married and the eldest, enlisting on February 2 1942. He was a member of Z Special Unit which was a training school set up outside Cairns. In February 1943, special operations were reorganised under Special Operations Australia (SOA); sometimes known as Special Reconnaissance Department. Z Unit, which came under the control of SOA, conducted 81 covert raids in WW2.
James was posted to Thursday Island Fortress with Torres Strait Force and to Morotai with Z Special Unit. He was discharged November 26 1945. James was an active returned soldier and would regularly act as MC at dances held to raise money after the war. He worked at Faust Bros. Hardware Store.
James Joseph Farrell passed away November 11 1962, aged 51, and is buried in the Proserpine Cemetery.
Sapper Eric John Farrell Q112034 (11 Field Company)
Eric, born March 12 1913, enlisted before his older brother on June 21 1941 and served for 203 days until he was discharged twelve months later, on June 26 1942, classified as an essential service person - those who worked on a farm, in a mine, or in a business that needed some of their men. When Japan entered the war, many men dropped their tools and enlisted, leaving the workforce very low and affecting the country’s ability to produce items necessary for both the military and civilians.
Eric Farrell worked as a labourer in the sugar industry on both farm and in the mill. He was called back to cut cane.
Eric John Farrell died May 18 1967, aged 54 and is buried in the Proserpine Cemetery.
Lest we Forget
Lance Corporal Jack Farrell
Eric John Farrell
Private Joseph (Joe) Farrell
Private James Joseph Farrell
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Everywhere I go in the Whitsundays, I hear the same concern: insurance is becoming unaffordable. Whether it's families, small business owners, or strata property holders — the cost of protecting what matters most has blown out.
And during a cost-of-living crisis, those costs hit even harder. Too many people are being forced to go without insurance or settle for inadequate cover.
This leaves our communities exposed and underprepared — especially in regions like ours, where extreme weather events are a known risk.
What’s most frustrating is that we’ve done the right thing. Across Queensland, councils have invested heavily in flood mitigation, resilience infrastructure, and natural hazard planning to reduce risk and better protect our communities.
Yet, despite these efforts, we’re still seeing insurance premiums skyrocket by 100%, 200% — even 500% in some areas. It’s unsustainable, it’s unfair, and it’s leaving too many Queenslanders behind.
That’s why councils across the state, including Whitsunday Regional Council, are calling on the Federal Government to take urgent action.
We want to see:
Greater transparency in how premiums are set, including proper recognition of local mitigation measures;
Increased affordability and availability of insurance — for homes, strata title holders, and businesses alike;
A holistic review of the Australian Cyclone Reinsurance Pool, including extended claims periods and broader eligibility for cyclone and flood-related damage.
We are doing our part to make our communities safer and more resilient, but we need a system that recognises and rewards those efforts, not penalises them.
It’s time for a fairer insurance framework that supports regional Queenslanders, protects livelihoods, and strengthens our ability to bounce back when disaster strikes.
By Ruth Puddefoot
As the Easter treats disappear, the foil starts piling up, it is important to remember that Aluminium foil is fully recyclable. To make sure it actually gets recycled and doesn’t get mistaken for paper, scrunch your wrappers together into a ball about the size of your fist.
If you somehow didn’t get through enough chocolate to make a fist-sized ball of foil (hard to believe, but it happens!), you can pop those smaller bits into an empty aluminium drink can. Once it’s full, pinch the top closed and drop it in your recycling bin... easy!
Who knows? That Easter wrapper could one day come back as a drink can, a toy, more foil, or even part of a plane!
The Queensland Tourism Industry Council, in partnership with Whitsunday Regional Council, invites you to join us for a special World Environment Day event on Thursday 5 June at 3:00pm.
Taking place at Shute Harbour Marine Terminal, this event is all about bringing sustainability into the spotlight and exploring how we can build a more environmentally-conscious tourism industry - right here in one of Queensland’s most iconic regions.
Whether you're just getting started on your sustainability journey or already leading the charge, this is a great opportunity to connect with others, share ideas and be part of the conversation shaping the future of tourism in Queensland.
There’ll be inspiring speakers, local insights, and a chance to reflect on how we can all play a part in protecting the natural places we rely on and love.
Everyone is welcome - come along, get inspired, and help us celebrate World Environment Day. Early bird tickets are now on sale at https://www.localtickets.com.au/
Contributed With thanks to Tourism Whitsundays
Pre-polling opened this week, marking a pivotal moment in the Federal Election race as candidates ramp up their campaigns, attending events, meeting voters, and making their case for the title.
Last week, the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry hosted a Meet the Federal Election Candidates Event, where attendees were eager to hear about the candidates' plans and promises. This will be followed by a formal debate in Mackay this Wednesday. The Australian Federal Election will be held on Saturday 3rd May.
Allan Milostic President of the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Amanda Nickson from the Family First Party, Michael Lockyer from the Trumpet of Patriots, current Federal Member for Dawson and LNP candidate Andrew Willcox, Labor candidate Neil Wallace, Greens candidate Paula Creen, Independent Queensland Senate candidate Jason Brown and facilitator Judy Porter. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
The Mayor’s Charity ball is a fundraising event with all proceeds supporting BMA CQ rescue, the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre and the Bowen Community Centre. The event is fully funded through tickets sales and sponsorships.
There are multiple sponsorship levels available, from becoming a Platinum sponsor to donating a prize for the auction or mystery reveal game. Sponsors are acknowledged during the Mayor’s Charity Ball promotional activities as well as at the event.
For more information on becoming a sponsor, email mayorscharityball@wrc.qld.gov.au or call 1300 972 753.
Residents across the Whitsunday region are invited to honour the sacrifices of our servicemen and women at a series of ANZAC Day services taking place on Friday, 25 April 2025.
From dawn services to community marches, come together to reflect, remember, and pay tribute to those that lost their lives.
Please note service times and road closures in your area, and allow extra time for travel and parking.
Airlie Beach
Main Service: 9:00am - meet at Broadwater Avenue carpark at 8am for march to Airlie Esplanade Cenotaph
Airlie Main Street will be closed from 6am - 10:30am
Bowen
Dawn Service: 5:50am - Herbert Street Cenotaph
Herbert Street closed between Gordon Street and Poole Street in both directions from 5:30am to 6:30am
Main Service: 9:30am - meet at RSL at 8:50am for march to the Cenotaph
Partial closure Williams Street to Bowen Cenotaph Herbert Street. Closure from 8:00am to 10:30am
Cannonvale
Dawn Service: 5:30am - Coral Esplanade Cenotaph
Collinsville
Dawn Service: 6:00am - Stanley Street Cenotaph
Main Service: 9:00am - meet at Foodworks at 8:45am for march to the Cenotaph
Full road closure of Stanley Street, beginning at Railway Road and ending at Birralee Street between 8:15am and 9:15am
Proserpine
Dawn Service: 4:30am - Ken McPherson Memorial Gardens Cenotaph
Main Service: 10:50am - meet at the RSL at 10:30am for march to the Cenotaph
Partial Road Closure 5:00am to approximately 12:00pm. Detours in place - Streets affected Marathon Street, Herbert Street, Mill Street and Hinschen Street
For further information, please contact your local RSL Branch.
By Ruth Puddefoot
The story of the Whitsundays begins more than 100 million years ago, when Australia was still part of the ancient supercontinent Gondwana. As the landmass slowly broke apart and drifted, volcanoes became active across what is now Queensland.
The Whitsundays have a fiery past that stretches back tens of millions of years. Around 110 million years ago, this region was part of a geologically active zone. For roughly 37 million years, volcanoes dominated the landscape with explosive eruptions that covered the area in ash and rock. Over time, these layers hardened into solid bedrock, which can still be seen today on islands like Whitsunday and Hook. These greenish-grey to brown rocks have been slowly sculpted by the ocean ever since.
In later periods, less violent volcanic activity pushed molten lava into cracks in the bedrock, creating vertical bands of darker rock called dykes. These are also visible on Hook Island.
Throughout this period, the Earth’s crust kept shifting. As tectonic plates moved and collided, they created mountain ranges across the globe, including parts of what would become the Great Dividing Range. In central Queensland, some of these ancient peaks eventually became the Whitsunday Islands.
These islands are known as continental islands because they were once part of mainland Australia. The Whitsundays are made from the rocky remains of an old mountain range.
Over millions of years, shifting climates caused sea levels to rise and fall with the ice ages. Each time the glaciers advanced or melted, the coastline moved. At one stage, it may have stretched up to 200 kilometres further east than it does today.
About 10,000 years ago, as the last ice age ended, melting glaciers caused sea levels to rise again. The Coral Sea flooded the coastal plains, leaving only the highest peaks and ridges above water, forming the rocky island chain we know today as the Whitsundays.
One of the most iconic features of the region is its vivid blue water. That signature aquamarine hue comes from fine sediment suspended in the sea, which scatters sunlight and creates the vibrant colour that visitors love.
Then there’s the dazzling white sand of Whitehaven Beach. Unlike most local beaches that have coarse sand made from broken coral and shell, Whitehaven’s sand is pure silica. Its origin remains a bit of a mystery, as the surrounding rock doesn’t contain much quartz.
Most scientists believe the sand was carried north along the Queensland coast by ocean currents millions of years ago. It settled at Whitehaven, caught between rocky headlands. Over time, freshwater filtered through the dunes, washing out impurities and leaving behind the fine, brilliant-white sand. When the sea rose again about 10,000 years ago, it reached the base of these ancient dunes, and Whitehaven Beach was born.
Whitsunday Island landscape. Photo credit: Ruth Puddefoot.
Barb Hill has been taking photos of landscapes and nature on her phone for as long as she can remember.
But no place has made her as emotional as The Barron Falls. The falls were on her bucket list for some time before she finally got to see them.
Barb visited after flooding hit the north and was overcome with emotion.
“Once I got there, I could see how it was raging in such beauty,” said Barb.
“I was overcome with emotion and awe. I stood there for ages, and probably, a good hour or so.”
When Barb isn’t taking photos, she is heavily involved in the community. She works as a Family Support Facilitator for DrugARM in Mackay through to the Whitsundays, including Bowen and Collinsville.
Beyond DrugARM, Barb is also a founding ambassador for Real Mates Talk, a men’s campaign that intends to prevent suicide attempts and deaths.
She also plays an active role in supporting the region’s homeless community.
Each week, Barb participates in outreach events, including barbecues and drop-in sessions, it’s a crucial support centre for those experiencing homelessness.
“It's about connecting and conversations. We are there every week,” said Barb.
“We're there, and people know that we are there at that time.”
In an exciting new venture Barb has created The Y Project, a youth-focused music initiative. Importantly, the project focuses on youth suicide prevention, providing a positive and supportive outlet for teens and young adults.
Barb’s enthusiasm is infectious, and it’s clear the combination of photography, community service, and music events fuels her passion for making a difference.
To enter the Tripping Magazine photo comp please send your photos to ruby@lifepublinggroup.com
Winner of March/April Tripping Photo Competition, Barb Hill's photograph of The Barron Falls
In the lead up to the Federal Election on Saturday May 3, Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry hosted a Meet the Federal Election Candidates Event, last Tuesday.
The event began with a statement from Queensland Senate candidate Jason Brown – Independent. Jason was given six minutes to answer the following questions.
A forum with the House of Representatives candidates followed, and it was facilitated by Judy Porter, of Shiift.
Paula Creen – Australian Greens
Michael Lockyer – Trumpet of Patriots
Amanda Nickson – Family First Party
Neil Wallace – Australian Labor Party
Andrew Willcox – Liberal National Party
In addition to presenting their business experience and vision for the region, candidates responded to questions on:
Chamber President Allan Milostic said Chamber was proud to facilitate the forum, and to give businesses in the region the opportunity to hear directly from those seeking to represent the Whitsundays at the federal level.
“As the united voice of business in our region, the Chamber is committed to ensuring that local priorities are understood, and that policy decisions are informed by the practical realities faced by those who live and work here,” he said.
“The event provided an opportunity for open, respectful discussion on the issues that matter to our members—economic growth, infrastructure, workforce, regulatory reform, and regional investment.
“We encouraged all candidates to speak directly to how their policies will support the long-term prosperity of our businesses and communities.
“We were delighted with the strong turn out and participation from the candidates.”
Amanda Nickson, Michael Lockyer, Andrew Willcox, Neil Wallace, Paula Creen and Jason Brown
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