Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
OPINION PIECE from the office of Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox There is no question that immigration into Australia is out of control. The government’s numbers are too high, and standards are too low. A sustainable migration program must consider our capacity to provide housing, healthcare, infrastructure and the essential services everyone relies on, and Australians must come first. But Labor’s decision to target Working Holiday Makers Visa holders is not the answer. These people filling vital gaps in our workforce are not the cause of Australia’s housing crisis. In many cases, they are living in accommodation provided by the very businesses that employ them. The National Farmers’ Federation has made the point that Working Holiday Makers generally stay in hostels, caravan parks or purpose-built on-farm accommodation. Resorts usually have on-site staff quarters. They are not the source of Australia’s housing shortage. So why is Labor making it harder for them to come here, when these workers fill genuine jobs that regional Australia holds? Working Holiday Makers fill approximately one in seven farm jobs nationally and are particularly important during peak agricultural periods, which for Dawson, it is right now! Farmers rely on these workers to plant, pick, pack and harvest the produce that ends up on Australian supermarket shelves. Having run one of Australia’s largest tomato farms, at times Working Holiday Makers made up more than 50 per cent of my workforce. Without them, much of our crop simply would not have been picked in time and rotted in the paddock. Some may say, why not employ the Australians who don’t have a job and are on “the dole”? Can I say, this does not work. Most farmers will employ Aussies over travelling backpackers, but many either don’t want to do the work or don’t turn up after the first day. Who picks the fruit or veggies then? Farmers are already warning that visa delays are leaving them without workers. The NFF says approvals that once took days are now facing processing times of up to three months, and this time frame can be the difference between harvesting a crop or losing it. That should concern every Australian already feeling the pressure at the supermarket checkout. The same problem is playing out in tourism. Across Dawson, Working Holiday Makers are an important part of the workforce supporting tourism and hospitality, particularly in the Whitsundays. They help fill shifts, work in hotels and restaurants, support tour operators and keep businesses running through their busiest periods. They also contribute to the local economy. They spend money on food, fuel, attractions and tours, supporting the small businesses that depend on a strong visitor economy. That is why tourism and business leaders across North Queensland are raising the alarm. They understand what happens when a regional business cannot get enough staff: opening hours are reduced, and services are cut, creating a downward spiral. We do need to reduce migration to sustainable levels. We need stronger integrity measures, and we need to crack down on rorts. But responsible migration policy means understanding which parts of the system are creating pressure and which parts are helping Australia function. Working Holiday Makers are not the problem. They are part of the workforce solution for regional. Australia. People have had a gutful of watching their standard of living go backwards. Groceries, fuel, housing and everyday expenses are already putting enormous pressure on families. The last thing Australians need is another reckless policy that makes it harder to produce food, harder to run regional businesses and harder for tourism operators to find the workers they need.
Read the full storySomeone sold a house in Sydney last week for $9 million less than they bought it for four or five years ago. The sellers had bought the property in Sydney’s eastern suburbs for $29 million and sold it for $20 million in a sale forced by their bank. I imagine the sellers are a little disappointed by the government’s decisions on negative gearing and capital gains tax and feeling pretty hurt by the increased interest rates. Australia’s interest rates are on the rise and are now sitting at levels not seen since 2011. Increased cost of living is hurting people around the country and interest rates are playing into that. But the impact of interest rates is not felt evenly around the country. The far-higher property prices mean people in the major cities suffer much more than regional areas with the rates increase. That is certainly not to say people in Mackay are unaffected by the cost of living; it’s just that the impact of interest rates increase on a $400,000 mortgage is much less than the impact on a $1m mortgage. There are other Mackay-specific factors that are in play when discussing the current housing market. The big factor is the role of coal in our economy. Most of the coal extracted and exported from our region is coking coal, which is used to make steel. The price of coking coal is around $280 a tonne, which is about 50 per cent up. Good activity in the coal market translates to good news for the Mackay economy, as it is an economic engine that other cities and regions just don’t have. Good activity in Bowen Basin flows throughout the Mackay economy; Paget workshops, transport, suppliers and related businesses all benefit. But so do other, non-mining-related businesses as they benefit from the general confidence and spending that goes on. The strong mining activity also means mines need to keep their staff levels up and that means more people moving to Mackay. Of course, Mackay is much more than a coal mining town but if the coal sector is going well those other areas definitely benefit. It is a confidence boost for Mackay people looking to get into the housing market and those wanting to upgrade or downsize. It also means continuing strong demand from people wanting to rent a property and it will be interesting to see what sort of activity that creates from investors. Investors have walked away from the big-city markets because they can no longer use negative gearing on established properties that do not have a sufficient yield to be positively geared. Negative gearing has never been a big thing in Mackay because our prices are lower and rental returns continue to be strong so many investors have a positively geared property. Around the country everyone is nervous about the state of play and the probability of more interest rate rises. But strong coal prices and an economy that is performing well mean Mackay might just be presenting an opportunity for buyers and sellers that doesn’t exist in other parts. I remember when national confidence was flying high and Mackay prices were going up significantly that many buyers were saying “I wish we had bought a while ago when the market wasn’t so hot”. I’m not armed with a crystal ball so I’m not here to tell you what is going to happen but I suspect there is a very good buying window right now for those looking for an opportunity.
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A local Mackay and Sarina based model has created a dress out of newspapers, including Mackay Life, for her upcoming pageant, representing her region and hometown on the runway as she vies for Miss Diamond International in Brisbane. Zoe Place will be competing this weekend in the three-day event, beginning this Friday 2nd October and ending on Sunday 4th October. The young model spent around a month creating her eco-fashion outfit, using old newspapers as the main material and transforming them into a bodice, skirt and flowers. Red elements were also incorporated into the design to give the dress a bold and glamorous pageant feel. Zoe said, “The entire concept was really about taking something that would normally be thrown away and turning it into something beautiful and meaningful.” Her eco-fashion creation will form part of a busy weekend in Brisbane, with the Miss Diamond International event including photo shoots, interviews, an eco-fashion show and the final pageant. Zoe has been preparing for the event by practising her strut and walking, preparing for interviews and getting comfortable in the different outfits she will wear throughout the weekend. Alongside her love of modelling, pageantry has also provided Zoe with a platform to raise awareness about causes close to her heart, including mental health, while fundraising for Beyond Blue. “Pageantry has given me more of a platform to combine my love for modelling with something that is really important to me.” “When I first started, I was more nervous about putting myself out there and worried about what others would think about me – but I’ve changed a lot through my journey in pageantry.” “Pageantry has also taught me that it’s not about how you look on stage. It’s about the person you are when you step off it.” “Every woman has their own unique journey and that journey is something we should all be really proud of.” “To me, it represents confidence, empowerment, kindness, and using your voice to make a difference.” Zoe said she was looking forward to meeting the other contestants, making new connections and creating memories. “I’m definitely looking forward to meeting all the new contestants and making new connections and creating memories that I will carry with me for a lifetime.” While Zoe hopes to eventually move to the city, her sights are set even further afield, with a dream of one day walking in New York Fashion Week. Mackay and Sarina local Zoe Place has created an eco-fashion dress from recycled newspapers, including Mackay Life, ahead of her Miss Diamond International pageant in Brisbane. Photos supplied
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Trends, reels and the endless cycle of always wanting more has quietly bombarded the minds of countless social media users of all ages, but one former Mackay local has made it her mission to help others understand the effects of social media and find practical ways to break free from online addiction. Alexis Zahner is in Mackay over the next week to teach upcoming generations about social media and the effects it can have on the mind, particularly on identity, self-discovery, as well as the marketing strategies that get viewers hooked and influence their decisions. It is something Alexis knows first-hand can be a useful tool, but also a great disruption to authenticity and the world as we see and experience it. Alexis will hold a free meet and greet and book launch today, Friday 2nd October, at 5.30pm at the Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club, where she will give a talk and answer questions relating to her debut book, Real: Reconnecting to Yourself in a World of Likes and Lies. A former Mackay girl, Alexis spent the past 15 years working across business psychology, marketing and media, with her interest in social media influence beginning during her university studies at James Cook University in Townsville. Her own experience as a social media user, travel blogger and influencer eventually led her to question how much of her identity, decisions and values were being shaped by what she saw online. “The tipping point came for me about 3 years ago when I had this feeling that I couldn't separate influence from my own personal decision making,” she said. “I couldn't separate my own likes, dislikes, values, relationships from what I was being exposed to and being influenced by online.” “I found that I needed to take some time away from social media to recalibrate what was important to me and sort of reconnect and come back to myself.” Alexis said she understood the feeling of questioning who you are outside of social media. “I know what it feels like to live a life under the influence of social media and have that existential crisis of thinking to yourself, who am I? What do I like? What's the kind of life I want to live? and struggling to separate myself from influence.” Alexis is particularly passionate about reaching teenagers, who she says are in an important stage of identity development, and will share this message with Mackay high school students during her upcoming school talks. “Teenagers are really easily influenced by social media. So it's a really important age where we start educating them – not just on the mental health repercussions of things like social media and how it shortens their attention span, but how it actually influences who they become.” “If you're asking yourself these questions, it's not your fault. Social media is actually geared to create this impact on you.” Alexis encourages people of all ages to “start expanding beyond what you see on the platform.” “Dare to indulge in the things that you've always been curious about or things you used to love,” she said. “Don't be afraid to put the phone down to let yourself be curious and have fun.” What: Alexis Zahner's 'Real' Book launch When: 5.30pm Friday 2nd October 2026 Where: Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club Former Mackay local and author Alexis Zahner is returning home to share her experiences with social media and her debut book, Real. Photo supplied
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Zephyr is a sweet and gentle boy who has already overcome so much. He was rescued from a remote pound in Kowanyama and made an incredible 1,279-kilometre journey to safety. Now in foster care, he is slowly gaining confidence and learning to enjoy the comforts of home life.
Zephyr has a lovely, submissive nature and gets along well with other dogs. He doesn’t need much in life – just a comfortable couch, a safe environment and a family willing to give him the love and patience he deserves.
Zephyr enjoys:
• Staying home and relaxing on the couch
• Lounging around all day
• The company of other dogs
• Being near his people, though he is also content to sleep while you are at work
Zephyr would thrive in a calm, kind household with people who are happy to take things slow and help him build trust, especially with men. He is recovering from heartworm treatment and will need gentle lead training once he is ready.
The adoption fee includes:
• Desexing
• Microchipping
• Vaccinations
• Flea, tick and worm treatment
• Proheart injection
If you'd like to adopt Zephyr contact Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc:
• Phone: 0459 757 455
• Facebook: Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue
• Email: bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com
Rehoming fee: $650
Breed: Kelpie X
Age: 3 years
Sex: Male
Other dogs: Yes
Fences: 6ft
Adopt Zephyr today! Photo sourced.
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Here in the Whitsundays, we’re lucky to live in a place that’s as popular with visitors as it is with locals. Tourism is a huge part of our economy—but so is our quality of life. And when the two intersect, it’s important we get the balance right.
That’s why Council is proposing a change to our Planning Scheme to help better manage where short-term accommodation (STA), like Airbnbs, can operate in Low Density Residential areas.
Right now, STAs are allowed in many zones across the region.
But in quieter, suburban-style neighbourhoods, there’s no clear framework to guide decisions. That makes it tough for both Council and the community when it comes to assessing applications.
We’re not looking to ban short-term accommodation—in fact, it brings in more than $174 million a year and plays a critical role during peak seasons and major events. But we also know some areas aren’t always the right fit for high visitor turnover.
So, we’re proposing a new, three-pronged approach:
A Planning Scheme amendment to map out areas where short-term accommodation may be supported, based on how land is already being used and community feedback.
A licensing system, including a complaints process and a ‘three strikes’ rule, to ensure good operators can continue and problem properties are held to account.
And longer-term housing planning—because this is also about making sure locals can find a place to live, not just visit.
This isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. We’ve drawn up precincts for potential STA use based on existing patterns, past approvals, and what we’ve heard from you.
Now, we want to hear more with another round of community consultation that kicked off on June 11 June and runs until Sunday 20 July.
We’ll be holding info stalls in Cannonvale, Bowen, Airlie Beach and Dingo Beach—so come along and have a yarn. You can also fill out an online survey or send us an email directly.
Visit Your Say Whitsunday to find out more and get involved. Because when it comes to balancing homes and holidays, your voice truly matters.
Cannonvale local and Endeavour Foundation’s Learning & Lifestyle Hub participant, Jenny, is stepping into a newly created, national role.
Selected as one of only five people with disability Australia-wide, Jenny will now participate in a new Client Advisory Group — a national initiative by Endeavour Foundation offering people with disability a chance to make valuable contributions towards the organisation’s future.
Endeavour Foundation is one of Australia’s largest disability service providers, supporting people with intellectual disability to live their best lives through home, work and community programs.
Approaching its 75th year, the organisation recently launched a new constitution, including the key innovation of the Client Advisory Group which meets bi-monthly and provides feedback on policies, programs, and services.
“Excitement, I want to do this for a long time. I am happy to give advice because some people don’t know. If you don’t get it out there, then people don’t know,” Jenny said.
Over the years, Jenny’s journey from a participant at the Learning & Lifestyle Hub to a national voice for disability rights, shows her growth as a leader and a leading advocate.
Not only has she fronted Endeavour Foundation’s recent Accessible Tourism videos with fellow Cannonvale participant, Charlie, but has actively sought advocacy role and shared her lived experience and story to help empower others.
“I like people to know that they are welcome to come, be happy and be helpful. People with a disability like help. It is true. That’s what you do. You can make friends,” Jenny said.
“With Endeavour I learn to get on with others and how to be helpful. Patience. Not many people learn to be patient. Communication, I learn how to talk to people and learn to be more independent,” concluded Jenny.
Endeavour Foundation Site Manager, Sabiné Mollone said, “Jenny brings great energy and perspective to the group. She’s been a reliable advocate for her local area and is growing in confidence with every meeting.
“Her contributions already include input on Endeavour’s independent living options, inclusive recruitment practices, and feedback on how to improve easy-read documents.
“The committee also discusses how technology and automation can better support people with disability in daily life,” added Sabiné.
To find out more about Endeavour Foundation’s support services and how they support people with disability, visit www.endeavour.com.au or contact 1800 112 112.
Jenny from the Endeavour Foundation Learning & Lifestyle hub in Cannonvale. Photos supplied
The Whitsunday Lions Club have recently made a $3000 donation to St Catherine's Christian College's Duke of Edinburgh International Award (DofE).
The schools DofE teacher Shantae Ryle runs the course with PCYC Sergeant (Sgt) Billy Li and they greatly appreciate the donation.
This is the first time the school has run the program and the support from Whitsunday Lions Club has funded the students to enrol in the course.
The Whitsunday Lions Club is always donating to schools and community groups across the region but they said the DofE is highly regarded and a great way to do outdoor activities while building skills.
“It’s nice to see people taking a step back and not being so focused on social media, there’s an awful lot of it today, and it’s nice to see them doing something out of their comfort zone,” they said.
“They don't realise it yet; how important it will be later on.
“Encouraging the kids to do this sort of thing is wonderful.”
In DofE campaign at St Catherine's Catholic College, Tuesday is fitness with Sgt Billy Li and he noted that fitness levels have already gone up. Wednesdays students are in the classroom, where they have already discovered their favourite activities.
The class noted that their favourite activities were getting to work together as a team and also improving on their public speaking skills.
Students from St Catherine's Catholic College with Sergeant Billy Li, Teacher Shantae Ryle, and Members of Whitsunday Lions Club Sue Gravelle, Betty Wilson, and Sue Cobham. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
Earlier this month, I had the pleasure of heading to Brisbane for the official launch of Destination 2045: Delivering Queensland’s Tourism Future, hosted by QTIC. It was a major moment for our industry, with over 500 passionate tourism leaders in the room and a clear message: the future of tourism in Queensland is bold, sustainable and full of opportunity.
The plan outlines how we’ll make the most of Queensland’s “green and gold runway” - capitalising on the momentum of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games to boost tourism before, during and long after the main event. It’s all about turning global attention into lasting benefits for our communities and natural environments.
With new investment in aviation, events, ecotourism and tourism infrastructure, Destination 2045 sets out a 20-year roadmap to position Queensland as a world leader in tourism and events. And for regions like ours, that means more chances to grow, innovate and showcase the best of what we offer - from the Reef to the rainforest and everything in between.
We then brought the conversation home on Wednesday the 4th, when the Hon. Andrew Powell, Minister for Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation joined us in Airlie Beach. It was fantastic to hear how this plan translates locally.
And we finished the week with QTIC’s World Environment Day event at Shute Harbour, joined by Craig Davidson from Tourism and Events Queensland and Tash Wheeler from QTIC - spotlighting our commitment to protecting the incredible natural beauty that makes The Whitsundays so special.
Contributed by Tim Booth, CEO, Tourism Whitsundays
Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth, Hon Andrew Powell, Chair of Tourism Whitsundays Julie Telford, and Elizabeth Hackett. Photo supplied
Friday 20th June
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Graham Rix(from 8pm)
KC's: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)
Saturday 21st June
Airlie Beach Hotel: Cold Chisel & Midnight Oil Tributes with Swanee (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: DJ Night (from 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: (Live Music & DJ Session 1pm – 6pm)
KC's: Retro Joe (from 8pm)
Sunday 22nd June
Airlie Beach Hotel: Cold Chisel & Midnight Oil Tributes with Swanee (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30 – 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Graham Rix (4pm - 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: Chill Acoustic Session (2pm – 6pm)
KC's: Nick di Gregorio (from 8pm)
Monday 23rd June
KC's: Scotty Wilson (from 8pm)
Tuesday 24th June
KC's: Josiah (from 8pm)
Wednesday 25th June
KC's: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm)
Thursday 26th June
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
KC's: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm)
June
20 Whitsundays 112th Annual Regional Show Day 1, Proserpine Showgrounds
21 Whitsundays 112th Annual Regional Show Day 2, Proserpine Showgrounds
22 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am
24 Sailability, Downstairs at the Whitsunday Sailing Club, Volunteers 8:00am-2:00pm & Sailors/Carers 9:00am-1:00pm, Bookings Required
24 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm
25 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp
27 Legends Night by Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network, Reef Gateway Hotel, 6pm - 9pm
29 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am
It’s been a pretty quiet week across the Whitsundays fishing scene, with patchy weather and cooler conditions keeping many anglers at bay. That said, those who have braved the conditions have been rewarded with some quality fish. Let’s hope next winter isn’t as cold as this one has been!
Dam
Thanks to poor conditions, the dam has seen limited traffic this week. Those who headed out managed to get a fish or two, but most catches were modest in size. We did have a couple of reports of nice barra though, which were landed by slow trolling along the edge of the weed beds.
Estuary
The standout this week has been the estuary fishing. Grunter have been around in both good numbers and size, with fresh bait proving to be the key to success. Creek mouths and deeper channels have been the most productive areas.
We’ve also had reports of decent mud crabs being caught. Dropping pots into deeper holes with fresh bait has yielded the best results.
Islands & Offshore
Offshore action has been sporadic but promising in patches. The charter boats have reported some quality coral trout and large nannygai coming over the side.
While bottom fishing has been steady, the real excitement has been on the surface. Mackerel and tuna are thick at the moment, and those chasing them on topwater lures have enjoyed some incredible air strike sessions – an absolute thrill for anyone keen on visual fishing.
The weekend is set to be a windy one, with wind easing during the week. Rug up and do your best to find somewhere protected!
Best of luck out there!
Contributed with thanks to Beth Hockley and Jason Fisher from Tackle World Airlie Beach
Whitsundays local, Nikki, ticking a Golden Trevally off her list. Photo supplied
The wait is over—just like a female’s gestation period—and the baby has arrived!
The roof is on, and now the final touches are underway: securing it for a category 5 cyclone, installing downpipes and a drain for excess water, finishing the fences, and before long our little club will be a wonderful sight in our paradise. It’s something the whole community can be proud of.
A big thank you to Amanda Camm for securing the extra funding for those finer finishing touches—it’s much appreciated by all members. Now we no longer have to cancel the schoolchildren if the weather is bad, and the beautiful people from the Endeavour Foundation can come every week, rain, hail or shine.
The revenue we’ve lost over the last seven months will be made up in no time. Free bowls lessons will now be a regular event on Monday and Thursday afternoons between 4 and 5pm, and soon there’ll be cover from the carpark right to the front entrance.
It’s perfect timing too, with the Australian Open currently on in Brisbane.
Anyone in the community is welcome to come down and give bowls a try—or to book their functions now with confidence.
We’re all so excited and can’t wait for the grand opening day!
Contibuted with thanks to Mark Mawson
The new roof at Airlie Beach Bowls Club. Photo supplied
In a heartfelt gesture Annie Norris recently donated her hair to Wigs4Kids after finding out that Reverend (Rev) Suzy Sitton, from her church, had been diagnosed with breast cancer for the second time earlier in the year.
Annie said she was inspired by Suzy.
“I have been so inspired by watching her strength, her recovery, her focus and still while conducting funerals and soldiering on really well,” she said.
"I can honestly say my inspiration has come from Susie, just watching this woman and what she's been through, oh my gosh. She really is a hero. She's a hero to me."
Annie had been thinking about cutting her hair and when she found out about Suzy she decided to go ahead, in an effort to show support for a woman she found so inspiring,
Rev Suzy Sitton said she appreciates Annie for donating, and is currently spending her time raising awareness for breast cancer, and is supporting Breast Cancer Research.
Rev Suzy hopes that she can become a success story for others and also noted that the Mobile Breast screening clinic is currently in the region. It is currently at Whitsunday Plaza in Cannonvale.
Annie Norris and Rev Suzy Sitton before the haircut
Jodi Lorraway, Annie Norris and Rev Suzy Sitton after the cut.
Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
Bowen State High School Student Olivia Boyce was one of 60 Year 10 students and 10 teachers selected to participate in the Department of Education’s 2025 STEM Girl Power Camp, which was held on 19 - 23 May in Brisbane.
Students travelled from all over Queensland to represent their school in Brisbane, where they participated in a variety of events, innovative science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) workshops and networking opportunities with experts from STEM fields.
Camp students met inspiring role models from diverse fields including, engineering, medicine, chemistry, quantum technologies and mathematical modelling. Students explored STEM pathways at an industry location of their choosing (either Cross River Rail, TechnologyOne, the Ecosciences Precinct or the Integrated Pathology Learning Centre) and discussed the importance of STEM communication at the Queensland Museum and Wheel of Brisbane. Students also participated in a variety of hands-on activities, including world-class biomedical research techniques at SPARQ-ed and led science activities with local primary school students.
The camp fostered students' understanding of STEM's significance in society while enhancing their leadership, critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and communication skills. As 2025 STEM Ambassadors, these students will now organise and deliver a STEM event during National Science Week in Term 3 (August 2025). This initiative aims to inspire others to pursue STEM subjects and careers.
Olivia enjoyed the experience immensively and said "It was one of the best experiences I have ever had throughout my schooling."
"This opportunity has provided me with the knowledge and skills to continue to peruse my interests in STEM throughout my senior studies at Bowen SHS.”
Principal Mr Harris was excited by the opportunities that are available for students at Bowen State High School.
“Our students are exposed to a range of opportunities in STEM, Arts and Sport," he said.
"I strongly encourage students to embrace opportunities that become available to them.”
The Whitsunday Game Fish Club’s new season kicks off on July 1, with an exciting program planned for all members.
First up is the Mackerel and Reef Fish Rally, taking place on July 19–20. (Reef fish have been added due to Queensland’s mackerel bag and boat limits.) A briefing and educational workshop will be held at 6pm on Thursday, July 17, at the Marine Club on Altmann Avenue, Cannonvale. Topics include rigging trolling baits, lure presentation, and angling techniques for Spanish mackerel and reef fish.
The workshop is a great opportunity—especially for juniors—to join the club, learn new skills, and get involved in the fun, family sport of light tackle game fishing.
Membership is $70 for adults and $35 for juniors, with half going to the Queensland Game Fishing Association, which advocates for anglers, helps protect fisheries, and manages the tag-and-release program.
The club’s competitions are designed around the wide variety of game fish available throughout the year in Whitsunday waters. The major three-day Light Tackle Tournament is set for October when sailfish, tuna, and juvenile black marlin are most active.
Game fishing clubs promote ethical and sporting angling, with a focus on juniors, workshops, and shared knowledge in a welcoming club environment.
Contributed with thanks to Ashley Moore
On Monday this week The Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC) announced the 2025 winners of the Top Tourism Town Awards, recognising the outstanding contributions of communities across the state in welcoming visitors year-round.
For the first time ever, Bowen won the Top Tourism Town Awards and Airlie Beach won the Small Tourism Town Awards for the fourth time in a row.
Winning these two awards is not only a testament to the natural wonders we have on our doorstep but also an acknowledgment of the friendly faces throughout our region.
Bowen has had a huge few weeks, on Queensland Day Bowen’s Big Mango was named ‘Best Big Thing’ in Queensland and Birds Fish Bar was named ‘Best Fish and Chips’, now for the first time they have won Top Tourism Town in Queensland.
Member for Burdekin Hon Dale Last MP said this is a testament to the whole community.
“This award is well deserved by Bowen’s tourism businesses and the community as a whole. Whether they are directly involved with tourism or not, Bowen residents are extremely vocal and parochial when it comes to their town, and I am sure those qualities contributed to Bowen securing the award,” he said.
“Take a bow Bowen, you deserve this and I am glad to see your efforts receiving the wide acclaim they deserve.”
Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business Leanne Abernethy said winning the award was a proud moment.
“This award capped off a fantastic couple of weeks,” she said.
“These awards are a testament to the dedication of our entire team of staff, volunteers and our supportive committee and I thank them all for their passion, their drive and their local knowledge.
“This award is also for the entire Bowen community and the entire Whitsundays region. We thank everyone for the support of what we do.”
Chair of Bowen Tourism and Business Jenn Honnery said this award proves that Bowen’s focus is on visitors and making sure they feel welcome and providing an amazing beachside experience.
Alongside Bowen, Airlie Beach was also in the national spotlight, after winning the Top Small Tourism Town for the fourth time in a row.
Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP said this award proves that Airlie Beach is a premier tourism destination.
Not only is Airlie Beach the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the Whitsunday Islands, it is also a dynamic town in its own right, with a vibrant local culture for both visitors and locals to enjoy. Congratulations to the residents, businesses and tourism operators of Airlie Beach who have collectively achieved this accolade.
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said both Bowen and Airlie Beach winning is a fantastic achievement for the whole region.
“We've won before, but it really reaffirms our position as Queensland's top area for regional tourism,” he said.
“From my perspective, it's not just about individuals. This is a whole of community effort.
“We know that these awards are voted on by visitors in the community and it’s a real reflection on the community itself.
“Our residents are warm and welcoming to visitors and the fantastic efforts by our businesses and tourism bodies make sure our region stands out.”
Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth also said it was great to see the region reaching these heights.
“It’s such an honour to see Airlie Beach take out the Small Tourism Town award for the fourth year in a row. It really shows the heart and hard work of our local tourism operators and community,” he said.
"And with Bowen claiming the title of Top Tourism Town, it’s a fantastic day for the entire Whitsunday region.
"A huge thank you to Whitsunday Regional Council for their ongoing support - these achievements wouldn’t be possible without them.”
Chair of Bowen Tourism and Business Jenn Honnery, Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth, and Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business Leanne Abernethy celebrating their win. Photo supplied
Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth, Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business Leanne Abernethy, Top Tour Guide Winner Joel McPherson, and Representing 1770 Top Tiny Tourism Town Winner Melissa Smith. Photo supplied
Hi Everyone,
Hope you're all looking forward to a short week and the fantastic Whitsunday Show - I know I am!
My past weekend was busy but so much fun. Saturday involved four-wheel driving through Cathu State Forest with friends. It's one of my top spots in the Whitsundays, and I always love discovering something new there!
Sunday, though, was profoundly fulfilling. I spent the day planting corals in the Great Barrier Reef as part of a restoration project with an amazing team of divers. You can read more about our experience in the special "Ruth2Reef" edition on pages 24-25.
I've had a lot of "pinch me" moments lately, and this past weekend was definitely one of them! Thinking back to two years ago, working in London and wondering if there was "more to life," I never would have believed I'd be doing this now.
Leaving London in 2023 felt daunting, but I'm incredibly grateful I stepped outside my comfort zone. It's led to unimaginable experiences and a career I'm deeply passionate about. I truly believe that sometimes the scariest path is the one worth taking. If you ever feel bored or stuck, consider it a sign to take that next step. You never know what amazing opportunities are waiting for you!
Enjoy reading & stepping out of your comfort zones!
Ruth
"Coming out of your comfort zone is tough in the beginning, chaotic in the middle, and awesome in the end...because in the end, it shows you a whole new world.” ― Manoj Arora, From the Rat Race to Financial Freedom
Superannuation is one of Australia's most important vehicles for building a comfortable retirement. Yet many of us only start paying attention to our super balances later in life. So why is super hitting the news and why am I raising it?
The Federal government is planning a super heist and wants to change the goal posts on retirement savings. They are proposing to double the tax rate from 15 per cent to 30 per cent on all super balances valued above $3 million. This is a very bad tax and a very bad economic policy. I am deadset opposed to the proposed tax in any form and I will tell you why.
Firstly, those with large balances will almost certainly look to divest assets to fall below the $3 million threshold. I would be gobsmacked if those with large balances were not already putting in place plans to move investment away should the tax come in. That means billions could leave the super system, reducing total funds under management. Less capital in super means lower investment returns for everyday Australians.
Secondly, this tax undermines confidence in super itself. Australians have been encouraged to put more into super to secure their retirement. But this change signals that the rules can change at any time, and not in a positive way. That uncertainty will discourage additional contributions and weaken the entire system.
Third, the proposal unfairly targets asset-rich but income-poor Australians, particularly farmers. Many family farms are held in self-managed super funds as part of intergenerational planning. These aren't "wealthy investors". Under Labor's plan, an on-paper increase in farmland value could trigger a huge tax bill, even though no cash is received.
My question to Anthony Albanese is, how do you expect our Aussie farmers who are already doing it tough, to pay a tax bill for a fictional profit? If more farmers sell their land off as a consequence, there will be less fresh Aussie produce on the shelves and higher prices at the checkout.
Lastly, the plan in its current form is that this new super tax will not be indexed and additionally, once legislated, future governments could reduce the threshold even further. This isn't just a tax on today's high-balance holders, it's a tax on middle-income Australians of the future.
If Labor is prepared to break the promise on super, what do they plan next? If this tax goes through, could it open the door for Labor to tax the family home?
A change to super affects everyone and the consequences go well beyond a handful of millionaires.
Andrew Willcox MP
Federal Member for Dawson
Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability
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