Kids Take Over TV Program Shows Mackay Through Young EyesMackay’s own backyard took centre stage this year, with ten enthusiastic young actors setting out to prove that adventure doesn’t have to come with a boarding pass.The group spent the month of July rediscovering the region’s family-friendly attractions, inviting the community to see familiar places in a new light.Experience Mackay Through Young EyesFrom the region’s art gallery and local libraries to live football, lush gardens and the Mackay Festival of Arts, the young presenters showcased the breadth of experiences available right across the Mackay region.Their experiences will launch to the public this week in the new season of Kids Take Over TV, which is a fun and inspiring online travel series where kids aged eight to 12 become the tour guides.This unique program showcases the best family-friendly destinations across Australia – through the eyes of young adventurers.Mayor Greg Williamson said the initiative was a wonderful reminder of the richness of Mackay’s community life.“Our young people have captured the spirit of Mackay beautifully – from our arts and culture to our sporting fields and green spaces,” Mayor Williamson said“It’s inspiring to see them enjoying these experiences and helping us to showcase them through a new lens,” he said.“It’s easy to be complacent when you live in a region for many years, but the beauty of having young people front and centre in this series is that their genuine excitement and joy is contagious.“It makes you really value what we have in our beautiful region and it also helps us to showcase our region to the rest of Australia in a fun, original way.”One of the young presenters, Archer Finch was blown away by the experience.“Being part of this series was like having a burst of excitement inside you!” Archer said.“I felt so important and it was so much fun,” he said.Mayor Williamson said the project was about more than just highlighting amazing regional experiences.“It gave these young stars the opportunity to build friendships outside of school, work together as a team and develop valuable skills in communication, presentation and performance,” he said.“It was a tremendous confidence boost for many of them, and I don’t doubt that we will see more of these young people on stage and screen in the years to come.”Kids Take Over TV episodes will feature Artspace Mackay, BB Print Stadium and the Mackay Cutters, The Mackay Region Botanic Gardens, DBCT Illuminate and Mackay Regional Council Libraries.Episodes will drop fortnightly on Mackay Regional Council’s Facebook page and Youtube during the school holidays and will feature young local presenters Harper Semple, Dustin Persson, Dexter Schembri, Millaa Ellis, Natalie Homewood, Isla Muir, Archer Finch, Jules Gaviglio, Ivy Gould, Madison Kennedy and Brayson Oldfield.Kids Take Over presenters from left, Natalie Homewood, Harper Semple, Ivy Gould, Isla Muir, Jules Gaviglio, Dustin Schembri, Archer Finch, Dexter Schembri and Brayson Oldfield, with Mayor Greg Williamson and videographer Matt Ferguson. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
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A simple act of kindness has prompted a heartfelt message of gratitude from a local family, after a frightening fall at the Sydney Street Market car park reminded them just how powerful community spirit can be. The incident occurred when a local woman fell in the car park, leaving her vulnerable and in pain. Within moments, members of the public stepped in to help, offering calm support and practical assistance while waiting for emergency services to arrive. Strangers stayed with the woman and her husband until the ambulance arrived, ensuring they were not alone during a stressful and uncertain time. Water was brought to help keep them comfortable, and blankets were placed beneath the woman to protect her from the heat of the road as she waited for medical care. Her daughter later shared a message of thanks, saying the situation could have been far worse without the quick thinking and compassion of those who stopped to help. “Thank you to the wonderful people who helped my mum today at Sydney street market car park when she fell,” she said. “Without such wonderful people like those who helped her and dad, stayed with them until ambulance arrived, got water for them and blankets to put under my mum so road didn't burn her, she would have been worse off.” The woman has since returned home. While she is sore and bruised, she is safe and recovering – a result her family credits in no small part to the kindness shown by complete strangers. In a moment of distress, their care and compassion reflected the very best of the local community.
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Hi lovely readers, This is our second last edition of the year, and what a wonderful year it’s been. Next up is our special Christmas edition which is always a joy to read, so be sure to grab your copy. Last Sunday Adam and I were meant to celebrate our 1st wedding anniversary… although we both completely forgot until the day after (LOL). Life has been pretty busy lately, so it somehow missed our radar… but hey, that’s life sometimes! This past week, I spent a little time in hospital. It’s nothing too major, so please don’t worry about me. Adam always finds a way to make me laugh, even in the toughest moments, so it wasn’t all doom and gloom… and that’s one of the many things I love about him. While I missed home for a few days, I was incredibly well looked after by the wonderful staff, nurses and doctors at Mackay Base Hospital. Their care and kindness, especially during this busy Christmas period made my stay a positive one, and for that I'm so grateful! My prayers also go out to the victims and families affected by the recent attacks in Bondi, Sydney. Nobody deserves such harm, and my heart goes out to all who are grieving. May the peace of God comfort them in this difficult time. Scripture of the week: "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." – Philippians 4:6-7 NKJV
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Suns Deal Drives Regional Growth Council has locked in a major win for the region, confirming the extension of its successful partnership with the Gold Coast SUNS Football Club (GCFC) through to 2028. The announcement follows news of a half-billion-dollar investment in the Mackay region by Certainty Wealth, which includes the proposed development of 1,100 residential lots. Certainty Wealth Managing Director Damien Gwynne said the company’s decision to invest in Mackay was directly influenced by council’s partnership with the Gold Coast SUNS, highlighting the role the collaboration has played in strengthening the region’s profile and appeal. “In 2024 we were brought up by the Gold Coast SUNS on a business delegation to explore Mackay as a potential investment opportunity,” Mr Gwynne said. “We will invest more than half a billion dollars in the region over the next seven years – retirement villages, childcare, commercial centres – and that’s all because of that one business delegation,” he said. Within 13 months of the delegation, Certainty Wealth are 25 per cent of the way through constructing stage one of the Riverbend estate at Mirani near Platypus Beach. They have also settled on land at Sarina, which will be a master-planned community with more than 1000 dwellings called The Crossing. Mr Gwynne said The Crossing would change the face of Sarina. “It will include residential lots, townhouses, retirement village, childcare centre, retail centres, plus a whole bunch of community infrastructure that will assist the existing residents of Sarina,” he said. Mayor Greg Williamson said the new agreement reinforced council’s commitment to delivering economic, social and sporting benefits for the Mackay region. “Since 2019, the partnership has positioned Mackay as a premier destination for elite women’s sport, with annual AFLW matches at the Great Barrier Reef Arena attracting thousands of spectators and showcasing the region on a national stage,” Mayor Williamson said. “AFL participation in Mackay has grown by 15 per cent during this period, with female participation increasing by 20 per cent, highlighting the positive impact of the collaboration on grassroots sport,” he said. The renewed three-year agreement will see council continue as Official Partner of the Gold Coast SUNS and Official Gold Coast SUNS AFLW Destination Partner. Key deliverables of the extended partnership include: • Hosting one AFLW match annually at the Great Barrier Reef Arena. • National brand exposure through apparel branding and signage at AFLW and AFL matches. • The creation of Discover Mackay Week, showcasing the region through SUNS platforms and match-day activations. • Economic development opportunities via corporate networking events and boardroom lunches with SUNS partners. • Community engagement through AFLW player appearances, academy camps and grassroots football programs. • Consumer promotions such as the “Live the Dream” initiative, giving Mackay girls the chance to experience life as an AFLW player. • Leadership development sessions run by GCFC executives and high-performance staff. Gold Coast SUNS Deputy CEO Simon Fitzgibbon welcomed the extension which will see the relationship between the organisations span beyond a decade. “We are thrilled to extend our partnership with Mackay Regional Council. The council has been an influential supporter of our club, in particular our AFLW program, for almost a decade,” Fitzgibbon said.
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Wilmar Sugar and Renewables’ Proserpine Mill crushed out early Saturday morning, bringing an end to a successful season.
It was the second of Wilmar’s eight sugar factories to finish the 2025 season.
Proserpine Mill Manager Operations Cory O’Shea said the last bin went through the tippler
at 6.30am Saturday (1 November).
“In total, we processed 1.48M tonnes of cane for the year to make about 205,000 tonnes of
raw sugar.
“The crop dropped off towards the back end of the season due to the warm, dry weather, but sugar content was above budget. We ended up with a provisional season CCS of 14.4 units.”
Mr O’Shea paid tribute to all Proserpine Mill employees, as well as growers and harvesting contractors, for their hard work in getting the crop off.
“I’m particularly proud of the job our people did this year – both in the factory and our cane supply team. It was a tremendous effort on all fronts,” he said.
“We had good factory performance, which contributed to the earlier finish. We also had a much better run of weather in 2025 than we’ve had in recent years, so we didn’t lose as much time to rain.
“An early finish puts us in a good position to finish the washdown and start our maintenance program before Christmas. This will take some pressure off, in terms of delivering our capital and maintenance program. It’ll also set the industry up for a better crop next year.”
Cory O'Shea and Jamie Bell celebrating the last bin for 2025 at the Proserpine Mill. Photo supplied
BRAVUS and the North Queensland Toyota Cowboys are ready to kick goals in 2026 under a new Platinum
Partnership that includes the company’s mining, rail, port and renewables businesses.
BRAVUS Head of Reputation Kate Campbell said the new sponsorship deal would take the powerhouse tieup between the mine, rail, port and renewables business and the North’s favourite sporting team to its 10-year anniversary in 2028.
"We are excited that our BRAVUS brand will feature on the Cowboys’ NRL jersey sleeve from next year so the 2000-plus employees from our local port, mine, rail and renewables businesses can share in the fun of being part of the Cowboys family,” Ms Campbell said.
"Our people work and live in Cowboys’ territory - the Isaac region, where our mine and solar farm are located, Townsville, Rockhampton, Mackay, where we have offices, and Bowen, where our rail and port business are located.
“Fans can expect to see big trains and ships alongside coal haul trucks and excavators in our 2026 advertising campaign, which will add a bit of extra fun to the season.”
Previously, only BRAVUS’ mining business Bravus Mining and Resources, held the Platinum Partnership, whereas now it rests with the parent company BRAVUS.
North Queensland Toyota Cowboys Chief Commercial Officer Dean Payne and players Jake Clifford and Jaxon Purdue joined Ms Campbell to celebrate the partnership renewal.
Clifford and Purdue modelled the Bravus brand on the sleeves of the North Queensland Toyota Cowboys NRL side’s 2026 home and away jerseys.
"The North Queensland Toyota Cowboys are proud to continue our partnership with Bravus. United by a
shared commitment to advancing regional Queensland and showcasing our region with pride, this
partnership has always been a natural fit,” Mr Payne said.
"We're excited for the next chapter of our partnership which will expand beyond Bravus Mining and
Resources to embrace the Heart of Cowboys territory, spanning Abbot Point Operations, Bowen Rail
Company and the North Queensland Export Terminal."
Clifford said he was excited to wear the BRAVUS brand again, albeit in a different way, in 2026.
"Pretty much since I made my NRL debut, Bravus have been supporting what we do on field and making it possible for us to live out our dreams of playing in the NRL," he said.
"Heaps of the players and fans have family who work at the mine or the port, so it's a part of what makes us proud to pull on the jersey each week and take the field to represent our region."
North Queensland Toyota Cowboys players Jaxon Purdue and Jake Clifford with Bravus Head of Reputation Kate Campbell. Photo supplied
Mentoring is more than just personal or professional development, it’s a strategic tool that can transform workplaces, strengthen company culture, and create long-term benefits for both individuals and organisations. By fostering collaboration, communication, and leadership, a structured mentoring program can improve an organisation’s Employee Value Proposition (EVP) and have a lasting impact on its success.
The 2025 Mackay Mentoring Network Program for Resource Industry Network (RIN) members is a prime example of this approach in action. The initiative supports current and aspiring managers and leaders from regional industries and local government, offering them the chance to connect, learn, and grow in a confidential and non-judgemental environment.
Through participation in a mutually beneficial developmental relationship, mentees can explore their career paths, refine their skills, and gain valuable insights from experienced professionals. The program also helps mentors expand their own leadership and communication skills, while contributing to the professional growth of others.
Benefits for Mentees and Mentors
For mentees, the program provides a supportive environment to discuss career concerns, receive feedback, and learn from real-world experience. It also helps them develop confidence, build professional networks, and gain clarity in career direction.
For mentors, it’s an opportunity to give back to the industry, share expertise, and gain new perspectives. The experience allows them to further enhance their leadership and mentoring abilities while expanding their professional connections.
While the program doesn’t guarantee job placement or promotion, it offers something far more valuable — genuine career growth, professional guidance, and the chance to be part of a supportive leadership network within the Mackay region.
Mentees and mentors will complete an application form to help organisers pair participants effectively, ensuring the best possible mentoring partnerships. Mentees will be asked about their goals and areas of interest, while mentors will outline the areas where they can offer guidance.
For mentees, participation costs $400 (ex GST), which includes access to all program events and the Art of Mentoring platform for ongoing resources and support. There is no cost for mentors.
To apply as a mentee, individuals must be members or employees of the Mackay Regional Council or Resource Industry Network. Mentors should have a passion for supporting others, a willingness to learn, and the ability to commit to the needs of their mentee throughout the program.
For more information, contact Tennille Allen, Organisational Development Officer (Culture), at organisational.development@mackay.qld.gov.au or phone 4961 9955. RIN members can also contact General Manager Dean Kirkwood at dean@rin.org.au.
With training, tailored activities, and networking opportunities included, the 2025 Mackay Mentoring Network Program promises to equip participants with the tools, insights, and relationships needed to lead with confidence — and to make a meaningful impact in their professional communities.
Photo source: Resource Industry Network
Three community groups in the Pioneer Valley will benefit from a $25,000 injection of funding through round 4 of the Capricornia Pumped Hydro Project’s pre-construction Community Benefit Fund.
The Mackay Regional SES Unit Support Group, Pioneer Valley Rail Trail Group, and Eungella Craft Group have received funding to support projects that improve local resilience, enhance community wellbeing, and promote the area’s natural assets.
Capricornia Pumped Hydro Project CEO John Carr said the fund was an important way of supporting the communities that will host the project.
“We’re proud to support initiatives that strengthen local capability and contribute to the long-term sustainability and vibrancy of the region,” Mr Carr said.
The Mackay Regional SES Unit Support Group will receive $1,500 to purchase a Starlink kit to improve emergency communications in remote areas where mobile coverage is limited.
“Reliable communication can make all the difference during a critical response,” said a spokesperson for the SES Support Group.
“This investment will help us respond faster and more effectively during emergencies, especially in hard-toreach areas.”
The Pioneer Valley Rail Trail Group has been awarded $21,300 to undertake drainage works along the Benholme section of the trail, and the Swamp Crossing vehicle crossover, a vital safety upgrade.
President Mike Browne said, “this grant will significantly enhance the trail in two key ways. Firstly, it will extend the period of the year that people can enjoy the trail without getting ‘bogged down’ in wet areas.
“It also takes us another step towards making the trail more accessible for everyone in our community, helping to support wellbeing by providing easier access to a healthy, outdoor activity.”
The Eungella Craft Group will receive $2,200 to host three community workshops focused on natural dyeing, felting, and earring-making. These will be led by expert practitioners and open to the wider community.
“These workshops are about more than just craft, they’re an opportunity to connect, learn something new, and share skills,” said a Eungella Craft Group representative.
The Pre-construction Community Benefit Fund provides funding to support initiatives that promote sustainability, reduce emissions, enhance local amenity, and build cultural awareness in the region.
Photo source: Queensland Hydro
The Greater Whitsunday region launched BioVision, an interactive tool highlighting its biomanufacturing strengths to investors, government, and industry.
Proudly supported by the Queensland Government, BioVision is the first tool of its kind in the sector, combining data and strategic insights to show how Greater Whitsunday is positioning itself as a biomanufacturing leader.
Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) Chief Executive Officer Ms Kylie Porter said BioVision is more than a map—it is a gateway to the future.
“It tells the story of a region that’s ready to lead, with the feedstock, infrastructure, workforce, and vision to become a globally significant biomanufacturing hub.
“We’re not waiting for opportunity to knock, with BioVision we are building the door.”
Ms Porter said Greater Whitsunday’s rich feedstock, strong infrastructure, and skilled workforce make it a prime location for biomanufacturing.
“The region’s proximity to fast-growing Asian markets and its favourable climate for year-round biomass production further strengthen its strategic advantage."
BioVision lets users explore the region’s biomanufacturing strengths through an interactive map, showcasing key locations, infrastructure, and industry capabilities.
Ms Porter said biomanufacturing is not a new concept for Greater Whitsunday. Since the release of Queensland’s Biofutures Roadmap in 2016, the region has worked with government, research institutions, and industry leaders to build momentum and capability.
“The region is already home to enabling infrastructure like the QUT Pioneer Biopilot, a national-scale facility supporting research and commercialisation in industrial biotechnology.
“With growing recognition of its potential to host large-scale biomanufacturing facilities, Greater Whitsunday is emerging as a key player in Australia’s bioeconomy.”
BioVision is now live and accessible to the public. Users can explore the tool at their own pace.
Visit BioVision today.
The OurSCAPE Art Exhibition, organised by Artists Connect Inc, opened on Friday, 24 November at Gallery 31, CQ University Mackay City Campus, celebrating the creativity and resilience of the Mackay, Isaac, and Whitsunday regions.
The exhibition is the culmination of the OurSCAPE Art Challenges, held across multiple regional locations including the Proserpine Rock Wallaby Festival, The Leap Hotel, St Lawrence Wetlands, and the Cape Hillsborough Masterclass. Each artist was given just four hours to complete their works, with 30 artists participating in the Challenges and 18 attending the Cape Hillsborough Masterclass retreat.
Mackay Regional Councillor Namarca Corowa praised the exhibition for reflecting the spirit of the community.
“The images captured throughout this exhibition…really capture the heart of our community. In that, they tell the story of our resilience, and what it took to build the region that we have today,” he said.
Cr Corowa highlighted how the works represent both Mackay’s history and its community values.
“Mackay recently being voted as number one for work-life balance, speaks to how our region values hard work, as well as that community spirit,” he said.
He also emphasised the importance of the region’s environment and heritage, noting the landscapes, beaches, and iconic Queenslander buildings.
“The mountains and the wildlife, speaks to how we’ve been able to have this community that’s so resourceful whilst maintaining the key elements of our environment, too,” he said.
Arts educator Glenda Hobdell praised the exhibition as a vibrant showcase that “brings people together.”
Now in its second year open to the public, the event encourages artists to step out of their comfort zones and create works within a limited timeframe.
“It’s about challenging our artists to step out of their comfort zone and to create something in a short time, but in a collegial environment as well,” Glenda said.
The exhibition welcomed both members and non-members aged 18 and over, with participants this year ranging from 18 up to 70.
Glenda encourages aspiring artists of all ages to “connect with those around you in the community… and believe you can do it – because you can. Everyone is born an artist.”
Glenda thanked the event’s strong community support and acknowledged the partnerships with organisations such as Artspace Mackay and Orange Sky.
Through Artists Connect Inc, Glenda continues to mentor emerging artists, run workshops, and strengthen the bond between artists and community, ensuring the region’s creative talent continues to flourish.
Glenda Hobdell and Cr Namarca Corowa celebrated the OurSCAPE Art Exhibition, showcasing the creativity, resilience, and community spirit of the Mackay, Isaac, and Whitsunday regions. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
The Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre (MECC) has been awarded Gold for Business Event Venue at the Mackay Isaac Tourism Awards 2025, recognising the venue’s excellence in hosting business events, conferences, and corporate gatherings.
As the largest convention facility between Cairns and Brisbane, the MECC boasts a 1,090-seat auditorium, two plenary halls, four meeting rooms, a 100-seat studio, breakout areas, and an in-house professional conference organiser office.
Over the past year, the centre welcomed more than 80,000 visitors and hosted over 100 business events, including major gatherings such as the Australian Regional Tourism (ART) Conference, Queensland Country Women’s Association Annual Conference, Queensland Mining Awards, Institute of Public Works Engineering Australia (NQ) Conference, Resource Industry Network Professional Development Conference, and the Australian Sugar Milling Safety Conference.
Key innovations contributed to MECC’s recognition, including the launch of the MECC Event Portal, streamlining event planning, document sharing, and communication for clients. The venue also upgraded its PA system across major spaces for clearer, more reliable sound and implemented a strategic team restructure to enhance client experience and operational efficiency.
Customer service remains a hallmark of the MECC, with a 95% client satisfaction rating. Initiatives such as the MECC “SHOWTIME” program celebrate staff excellence and embed service standards, while real-time QR code feedback provides instant visitor insights.
Sustainability and inclusivity are also priorities, with biodegradable catering and waste-sorting stations, energy-efficient LED lighting, and accessibility upgrades including Companion Card ticketing currently underway.
Executive Manager Andrew Bobeldyk said, “It’s been a big year, and this award is a credit to our entire team. Their hard work, passion, and commitment to excellence are what make the MECC such a standout venue for business events in Queensland.”
Celebrating innovation, service, and professionalism, the award underpins the MECC as a leading venue and a must-visit destination for high profile events.
Tucked away in one of Andergrove’s most tightly held pockets, 13/42 Wattle Street is where architectural flair meets everyday functionality. Every inch of this remarkable home has been designed with purpose – offering the perfect sanctuary for families, professionals, and entertainers alike.
Behind the understated façade lies a home that truly delivers on all fronts: five generous bedrooms, four bathrooms (three ensuited), and a selection of indoor and outdoor living zones that flow seamlessly for both privacy and togetherness.
The heart of the home – the kitchen – is a culinary masterpiece. Boasting three ovens, including a steamer, a gas cooktop, and a built-in Miele dishwasher, this space has been curated for those who value both beauty and performance. Overlooking the dining and living areas, it effortlessly connects to the undercover patio, creating a true entertainer’s dream.
Attention to detail is evident everywhere – from the VeriShades in the dining area that filter light perfectly, to the 20kW solar system that keeps energy bills in check without sacrificing comfort. The air-conditioned garage/workshop adds flexibility for hobbyists or those working from home, while rear lane access and space for a shed make it as practical as it is polished.
Set within a boutique, secure enclave, this home provides peace of mind and a strong sense of community, yet remains only minutes from schools, shopping, and the Mackay Marina.
Whether you’re a growing family seeking space, a couple wanting room to host, or simply someone who appreciates quality craftsmanship, 13/42 Wattle Street promises a lifestyle upgrade in every sense.
At a Glance:
Contact Area Specialist Shirlz Russell today to experience it for yourself.
Photos supplied
Get ready! The Airlie Beach Festival of Music is back this weekend, and it’s set to be bigger than ever!
With more than 60 acts lighting up bars, cafes, and iconic venues across town, Airlie Beach transforms into one giant stage. Catch headline performances from Jessica Mauboy, Pete Murray, The Screaming Jets, Diesel, The Black Sorrows, Choirboys and more under the big tent at the Whitsunday Sailing Club.
This award-winning festival is the event in paradise. Tickets are still available, make sure you don't miss it!
For the first time in a long time Jessica Mauboy returns to a festival stage, and crowds in Airlie Beach will be the lucky ones to witness it.
Best known for her powerhouse vocals and warm stage presence, Mauboy first captured national attention on Australian Idol and has since become one of the country’s most celebrated artists. But despite her fame, she says it’s performing live that brings her the most joy.
“Being able to play live is my ultimate favourite. So, it’s an absolute honour and opportunity to be able to do that in Airlie Beach. I'm looking forward to that,” she said.
Festival-goers can expect a setlist spanning her full career, from early hits and soundtrack favourites from The Sapphires, through to fresh material like her latest single While I Got Time, which recently featured on Home and Away.
Mauboy said the inspiration behind the track came from a deeply personal creative brief.
“The intentional production was very intimate and just little harmonies here and there, just to kind of hear the guitar play, the emotions of the lyrics and the voice, is what we wanted," she expressed.
“I've never been a part of a project like that in my life. So this was really unexpected, but such a really warm project and sincere experience I've never been a part of.”
While she’s excited to headline the Airlie Beach main stage, Mauboy is equally passionate about supporting emerging talent through initiatives like Passport to Airlie, which provides opportunities for up-and-coming musicians to perform at future festivals.
“Our local stages are so important, so we need to take care of them, we need to nurture them. As much as the big stages outside are amazing. You always remember the beginning of it, and I still remember my first stage,” she said.
“The one thing I would say is learn from that experience. Learn from the stages. Learn from the people who build the stages from the ground up, and who create the festivals and take care of them.”
Hi Everyone,
You may notice something a little different about this edition of the paper – we have rebranded!
After five years with the same masthead, the team thought it was time to freshen up our look, and I’m sure you’ll agree the new cover really does pop! Inspired by our lush green hinterland and the Great Barrier Reef – where all four of our regional newspapers are located – we opted for a vibrant blue-green gradient.
You’ll also notice our brand name ‘LiFE’ is now more prominent. This is because we want people up and down the coast to easily identify one of our publications.
Plus, LiFE really resonates with us as a team – not only do we love life, we’re all about promoting the local lifestyle and delivering positive community news to the regions.
For more than five years, we’ve been dedicated to bringing back the community’s free voice in print, and next year I’m looking forward to broadening our scope even more.
As you know, newspapers aren’t just printed anymore – they’re experienced in many ways: holding a hard copy in your hand, scrolling through stories on Facebook, liking photos on Instagram, and heading online to read, watch and listen to the news.
As we continue to evolve, our journalists will also be updating our website daily and uploading breaking news as it happens across the region.
News moves fast – and even though we live in a relaxed regional town, so do we!
Our newly refreshed branding marks the start of a new era for us – one we’re really looking forward to sharing with all of you.
Rach
Quote of the Week: "You cannot get through a single day without having an impact on the world around you. What you do makes a difference and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make" (Jane Goodall)
Not all heroes wear capes, some crawl through storm drains.
When residents in Jubilee Pocket noticed a young curlew trapped in a storm drain and unable to escape for two days, they raised the alarm. Concerned for the bird’s wellbeing, the community reached out for help and Fauna Rescue Whitsundays volunteer Trent didn’t hesitate to answer the call.
Braving the heat and tight conditions, Trent crawled around 100 metres underground to reach the frightened curlew. After a tense few moments, he emerged safely with the little bird in his hands, tired and hot but unharmed.
The rescue has since captured the hearts of locals, serving as a reminder of the incredible dedication shown by the region’s volunteer wildlife carers.
Fauna Rescue Whitsundays posted on Facebook about the ordeal and thanked him for rescuing the curlew.
"These are the moments that remind us just how dedicated our community of wildlife heroes truly is," they said on the post.
The young curlew was released back into the wild and was spotted with a friend shortly after, a happy ending made possible by a local hero and caring community.
On Wednesday morning at 2.35am paramedics were called to Island Drive in Cannonvale after a woman suffered a head injury following an e-scooter incident.
Queensland Ambulance Service reported that the woman was taken to Proserpine Hospital in a potentially life-threatening condition.
Two hours later in Bowen, a woman in her 50s was taken to hospital following an e-scooter incident on Whitsunday Street around 4.35am.
She was transported to Bowen Hospital in a stable condition, suffering from chest pain.
Bowen is set to undergo a major transformation with the development of the Bowen Foreshore Master Plan, a long-term strategy designed to revitalise the town’s waterfront and strengthen its identity as a vibrant regional hub.
Stretching more than a kilometre along the coast, from the south-west edge of Mitchell Street to the Eddie McCane Place parklands, and including the Bowen Boat Harbour, Santa Barbara Parade, and Bowen Jetty, the plan outlines a vision to create a connected, inclusive, and sustainable foreshore precinct that celebrates Bowen’s character and community spirit.
The master plan aims to unite local stakeholders, guide future development, and deliver projects that generate long-term economic, social, and environmental benefits. By providing a clear yet adaptable framework, it positions Bowen to attract investment, secure grant funding, and advocate for initiatives aligned with Council and community priorities.
Aligned with the Whitsunday 2030 Economic Development Strategy, the plan focuses on revitalising the waterfront, stimulating tourism, and unlocking new opportunities for local businesses. Enhancements will include improved access and connectivity, greener public spaces, and vibrant social and cultural areas that encourage people to live, visit, and invest in Bowen.
A key element of the plan, Precinct 1: Leisure at the Shore, envisions a lively foreshore blending leisure, culture, and nature. Anchored by the new Bowen Jetty and the proposed Bowen Catalina Experience Centre, the precinct will feature family-friendly activities, dining, retail, and cultural attractions. Streetscape upgrades along Santa Barbara Parade will create a low-speed, pedestrian-friendly boulevard linking the foreshore with the town centre, enhancing walkability and local business activity.
Resilience and sustainability are central to the design, with strategies to mitigate climate change impacts such as sea-level rise and storm surges. The plan includes shaded areas, native vegetation, and strengthened seawalls that provide both protection and recreational opportunities.
Ultimately, the Bowen Foreshore Master Plan represents a community-driven vision, one that connects residents, businesses, and visitors through shared pride in Bowen’s heritage and optimism for its future. By balancing growth, sustainability, and identity, the plan will help shape a vibrant waterfront destination for generations to come.
The Airlie Beach Masterplan sets a bold vision for the future (Photo Source: Whitsunday Regional Council)
Whitsunday Regional Council has voted unanimously to reopen the popular Proserpine RV Rest Stop, marking a major win for local tourism and small business in the heart of Proserpine.
Located behind St Catherine’s Church on Main Street, the free 48-hour stopover will welcome fully self-contained vehicles from April to October each year, coinciding with the region’s dry season. The decision is expected to inject between $860,000 and $1.7 million annually into the local economy, as travellers spend on goods, services, and attractions around town.
Mayor Ry Collins said the move highlights Council’s ongoing commitment to strengthening regional tourism and supporting local business growth.
“Reopening the Proserpine RV Rest Stop makes good sense for our region as it’s a small investment with a big return,” Mayor Collins said.
“This initiative reinforces Proserpine’s role as a welcoming gateway to the Whitsundays and delivers a real boost for local shops, cafes and service providers.
“It’s about getting travellers to stop, explore and spend time and money in our town centres.
“We have been working with staff since late last year to explore how we could reopen the site in a more economical way while still delivering strong outcomes for the community.
“It’s great to now see that work paying off and this project moving forward.”
Division 3 Councillor John Collins said the unanimous 7–0 decision reflected the strong community support behind reopening the site.
“I’ve advocated strongly for the return of the RV Rest Stop because the community has been very clear that it works for Proserpine,” Cr Collins said.
“This is a win for our local business community, our tourism operators and the many volunteers who have worked hard to make visitors feel welcome here.
“Council’s unanimous 7-0 decision shows we’re united in backing projects that make a difference for Division 3 and for the broader Whitsundays.”
Under the plan endorsed at this week’s Ordinary Council Meeting, the Rest Stop will reopen in April 2026 with minor upgrades, improved signage, and a seasonal operating model designed to minimise wet-season maintenance.
Council will now move forward with the Development Approval amendment and finalise lease and operational arrangements ahead of the official reopening.
The upgraded Proserpine RV Rest Stop will re-open in April next year. Photo supplied
A local woman has sparked an incredible wave of community generosity after launching a fundraiser to support a young girl from Charters Towers living with Rett syndrome.
When Airlie Beach local Abby Duffin shared a simple Facebook post seeking raffle prizes for a fundraiser, she never expected the overwhelming response that followed.
“I’m shocked myself with how much it took off,” Abby said.
“I just wanted to do something to help Haven and her family. I grew up with them, they are basically family.”
Two-year-old Haven was diagnosed with Rett syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that affects only girls and causes severe impairments in movement and communication. While children with Rett maintain full understanding, their bodies slowly lose the ability to function.
“Haven is two and a few months, but she still can't talk and she can't walk either,” said Abby.
“The more I can make, the better it is for her future.
“Her mum, Shannon, is trying to get her to go to there's a therapy place in Brisbane, and there's like three weeks stints of intensive therapy for her to try and get her walking, or as close to walking as much as they can.”
Abby’s fundraiser will be held at Lola’s Bar, with a $5 entry fee and all proceeds going directly to Haven’s family to assist with travel, medical, and therapy costs. The night will feature live music, karaoke, and raffles with prizes donated by both local and national businesses.
“The support has been insane,” Abby said. “Mirage Whitsundays donated a two-night stay in a three-bedroom villa with a private plunge pool, Big4 offered a weekend getaway for Haven’s family, and even Australia Zoo got involved.”
Abby now has 12 major raffle bundles, and each are worth around $500 or more.
Abby said she will continue accepting donations and prizes right up until the event.
“It’s just blown me away how generous people have been,” she said. “This community really does rally behind people when it matters.”
Anyone wishing to contribute a raffle prize or donation can contact Abby via abbyduffin19@hotmail.com.
The fundraiser will take place at Lola’s Bar, on 21st November from 7pm til late. Attendees encouraged to come dressed in their coolest retro outfits for an evening of fun, music, and meaningful support.
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