Television presenter Greg Grainger has been in Bowen and Collinsville filming for an episode of “Travel Oz”. The show is expected to be aired on Channel 7TWO at 8.30am on Saturday, May 17.

It will also be aired on international TV.

The crew were hosted by Bowen Tourism and Business with co-sponsors – Rose Bay Beach Caravan Park, the Collinsville Community Association, Meraki Whitsundays, and the North Queensland Cruising Yacht Club.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said Greg really enjoyed his time in the region and was very impressed with the beautiful beaches and the great hospitality he received.

“Programs like this would not be possible without our co-sponsors and we appreciate their support,” she said.

Greg is a Logie award winner and is known for travel and adventure documentaries and wildlife programs.

While in Bowen, he went snorkelling and sailing, visited the Summergarden Theatre, local farms, Birds Seafood and the Collinsville May Day celebration.

He stayed in a glamping tent at Rose Bay Beach Caravan Park and catering was provided by Meraki Whitsundays.

He really enjoyed his bushwalk to Mother Beddock and learning about the history of the region.

Of course, he also visited the Big Mango and enjoyed a delicious mango sorbet.

“Programs like this offer great exposure for Bowen and entire Whitsundays region and we are looking forward to seeing the end result,” Leanne said.

Contributed with thanks to Bowen Tourism & Business

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Travel Oz at the Big Mango
Travel Oz on a walk through Bowen

Photos supplied

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What a week at ATE25! Tourism Whitsundays was proud to represent our region on the global stage in Brisbane. Alongside 10 passionate operators, we formed Team Whitsundays, showcasing the very best of our destination to the world.

Across four busy days, we held 84 appointments with international buyers from over 30 countries. Each meeting was an opportunity to highlight the unique experiences and natural beauty that make The Whitsundays so special.

Beyond the tradeshow floor, the famil program gave us the chance to welcome international buyers and media to experience the region first-hand. From scenic flights to sailing adventures to island visits and beachfront dining, we offered a taste of everything The Whitsundays has to offer.

The strength of our region really shone through thanks to the amazing products and experiences from our Whitsundays operators. Their passion and professionalism made it clear why The Whitsundays is one of the most exciting destinations for international travellers.

Contributed with thanks to Tourism Whitsundays

Australian Tourism Exchange 2025 (ATE25) in Brisbane
Tourism Whitsundays at ATE25 in Brisbane

Photos supplied

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This past week I had the privilege of joining fellow Mayors Greg Williamson (Mackay) and Kelly Vea Vea (Isaac) in Brisbane, as part of a united Greater Whitsunday delegation led by GW3.

Over two days, we proudly showcased the strength and opportunity of our region to key state decision-makers – culminating in the Greater Possibilities Showcase at Queensland Parliament House, attended by more than 90 ministers, Director-Generals and invited guests.

The flavours of our region made the journey with us – from locally farmed prawns in Isaac and award-winning sauces from Sarina Sugar Shed, to a handcrafted agave spirit proudly distilled in the Whitsundays. Together with our local MPs Amanda Camm, Nigel Dalton and Glen Kelly, we shared why the Greater Whitsunday is one of the few regions globally capable of supporting multiple billion-dollar industries.

The Showcase also highlighted key opportunities requiring government support – including infrastructure investment at Abbot Point and Mackay SDAs, realignment of aquaculture and agriculture policy, improved digital connectivity across 15 regional projects, housing investment and the Road Royalty Package proposal to strengthen our freight routes.

In addition to the Showcase, I met with four Ministers and the Treasurer to advocate for the Whitsunday region. We discussed a range of priorities, including seeking funding for major projects and the essential infrastructure needed to support our growth. As the Whitsunday Region continues to experience rapid expansion, particularly with the highest rate of internal migration in Australia, it is imperative that we secure investment in infrastructure to keep pace with this growth.

A significant point of discussion was the responsibility of local councils to fund the considerable infrastructure required to support this development. The scale of investment needed is substantial, and without strong government collaboration, it’s challenging for local councils to bear the full financial burden. Ensuring state and federal support for this infrastructure will be critical to maintaining the region’s momentum and ensuring sustainable growth.

We discussed unlocking new housing stock, which is a critical need, and the possibility of adding another secondary school to meet the demands of a growing population. Another key topic was the collaboration on road network planning and the much-needed investment, especially in major and rural roads that are essential to supporting both residential and industrial growth across the region.

This visit wasn’t just about promoting our region – it was about securing the partnerships and support we need to unlock even greater possibilities.

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Social bowls enthusiasts made the most of mixed weather conditions last week, with several solid performances on the green and the long-anticipated return of Barefoot Bowls.

On Wednesday, ten players took part in social games, with Trevor Parsons and Philip Brown claiming a convincing 28–11 win over Alen Sanderson and Barry Zillmann. Meanwhile, the trio of Aurora, Bruce Uhe, and Heather Brown secured a 24–15 victory over Arthur Griffith, John Anderson, and Sandy Daffara.

Friday night saw the successful launch of the club’s first Barefoot Bowls evening for the year, following previous cancellations due to rain. The turnout was strong, and organisers extended their thanks to everyone who helped bring the night together.

Saturday’s social bowls doubled as a chance for selectors to assess players keen to represent the club in upcoming pennants competitions. While rain disrupted some of the games, it didn’t dampen the enthusiasm of those hoping to make the team.

Unfortunately, Sunday’s bowls had to be called off after a good dose of rain soaked Proserpine.

Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Bowls Club

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All five Sea Eagles AFL teams braved the wet and windy conditions for the home crowd on the weekend with some great results. Lots of supporters were out and about also making the most of having footy back at The Nest, enjoying the new rendition of the Sea Eagles Club song multiple times with wins throughout the day.

Sea Eagles Senior Men clashed with Mackay City Hawks using the wind to their advantage in the first quarter, able to hold that lead for the remainder of the game running out winners 57 - 32.

Sea Eagles Senior Women were victorious in the rematch with Moranbah, running hard in the second quarter to put goals on the board eventually taking the win 32 - 8.

Moranbah came out firing against Sea Eagles Under 17s and although Sea Eagles were able to improve on last week's performance and stay in reach, the final term saw Moranbah pull away to post a 37 point win.

Sea Eagles Under 15s were eager to take on Moranbah again after a close match last week, however Moranbah took off in the first quarter and Sea Eagles were unable to make it back with 23 - 49 the final score.

Under 13s Sea Eagles went out early in the ever changing conditions to beat Moranbah Bulldogs for the second week running, in what ended as a close match 20 - 16 after Bulldogs used the wind in the final term to make it interesting.

This coming week four teams head to Mackay with U13s and U15s headed Mackay Magpies and Senior Men and Women at Eastern Swans.

Saturday 10th May
8:00am U13 Sea Eagles vs Mackay Magpies (Magpies)
9:15am U15 Sea Eagles vs Mackay Magpies (Magpies)
1:50pm Senior Women vs Eastern Swans (Rogers Oval)
3:20pm Sea Eagles Senior Men vs Eastern Swans (Rogers Oval)

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Sea Eagles

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May

8 Proserpine Rock Wallaby Festival 8th – 11th | Exhibition Opening Night 6:30pm

9 Mamma Mia, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

10 Art in the Park, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 9:00am - varied class start times. Bookings required for class participation, $25pp. Exhibition free.

10 Car Boot Sale, Airlie Beach Bowls Club, 9:00am-3:00pm

11 Mother’s Day

11 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

11 Handmade & Homecrafted Markets, Ken McPherson Park / P.E.C

11 Mother’s Day Morning Tea, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 9:30am, $35pp, Bookings Required

12 Spellbound, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7:00pm

13 Sailability, Downstairs at the Whitsunday Sailing Club, Volunteers 8:00am-2:00pm & Sailors/Carers 9:00am-1:00pm, Bookings Required

13 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

14 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

14 The Whitsundays 2025 Whale Season Information Night, Whitsunday Sailing Club, 6.30pm

16 Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea, Club Whitsunday, 9:30am-11:00am, $25pp Bookings Required, Group Bookings Welcome.

17 Whitsunday Multicultural Festival, Bowen Soundshell Santa Barbara Parade, 10:00am-2:00pm

17 Whitsunday Brahmans Family Field Day, Les Stagg Oval in Proserpine, 3:00pm-7:00pm

18 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

18 Distinguished Gentleman's Ride, various location, 8:00am-11:00am, Registration Required to Participate

20 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

25 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

26 National Sorry Day

27 National Reconciliation Week, May 27th – June 3rd

27 Sailability, Downstairs at the Whitsunday Sailing Club, Volunteers 8:00am-2:00pm & Sailors/Carers 9:00am-1:00pm, Bookings Required

27 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

28 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

31 Whitsunday Cruisin’ Car Club SHOW & Shine, LOCATION, 8:00am-11:30am

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Friday 9th

• The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
• Grand View Hotel: Julias Dator (from 8pm)

Saturday 10th May

• The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Shania Twain Tribute (2pm – 5.30pm)
• The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
• Grand View Hotel: 80s to the MAX (from 8pm)
• Coral Sea Pavillion: (Live Music & DJ Session 1pm – 6pm)

Sunday 11th May (MOTHER’S DAY)

• The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Shania Twain Tribute (2pm – 5.30pm)
• The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
• Grand View Hotel: Julias Dator (4pm – 8pm)
• Coral Sea Pavillion: Chill Acoustic Session (2pm – 6pm)

Thursday 15th May

• The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Chris Booroff (6.30pm – 9.30pm)

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A significant fire broke out at a Hostel in Bowen last Wednesday morning 30th April, and sadly a fatality has been confirmed.

At approximately 3:30am a large-scale response was initiated by emergency services after police were alerted to a building fully engulfed in flames on Gordon Street, following reports from concerned locals.

Fire crews from the local station were swiftly deployed, with three teams arriving on scene around 3:40am. 

The fire, located near the intersection of Brisbane Street and Herbert Street, was confirmed as a structural fire. Emergency personnel initiated both external and internal firefighting operations in an effort to control the blaze.

By 4:45am, the fire had been largely extinguished, though crews remained on site to suppress any remaining hotspots and prevent the fire from spreading to adjacent buildings. 

Authorities confirmed that no other structures in the vicinity were impacted.

While initial reports indicated that all occupants were evacuated safely, at 8:04pm Wednesday 30 April, the Queensland Police Service announced that a fatality occurred.

Further searches of the property located a body and forensic examination is underway to identify the deceased.

Anyone who may have witnessed anything, or has dashcam or CCTV from the area, is urged to contact investigators.

Police investigations are still ongoing at the time of print. (Wednesday 7th May)

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Local author and writers’ mentor Richard Evans is set to captivate readers with his latest political thriller, 'Horrible People', the first in the Jack Hudson MP series. Drawing on his experience as a former federal politician and national industry leader, Evans brings a unique and authentic perspective to political storytelling.

Evans believes apathy towards politics often breeds scepticism and discontent. 'Horrible People' explores this idea through a compelling narrative filled with page-turning plots and memorable characters, offering a glimpse into the murky waters of political life.

The book launched in Mackay at the Dudley Denny City Library, coinciding with Evans’ creative writing course on federal election day — is a fitting blend of literature and civic engagement that reflects his approach to storytelling.

When asked if 'Horrible People' is a memoir, Evans grinned and said, "You may say that, but I could never confirm such a proposition." He added, "While the novel draws from my lived political experiences and the fascinating individuals I’ve encountered, it is a work of fiction designed to entertain and provoke thought."

Regarded as a master of the political thriller genre in Australia, Evans has penned nine novels that captivate and challenge readers. His work doesn't just thrill — it reflects on the political landscape with insight and wit.

'Horrible People' is now available. Ask for a copy at your local bookstore, library, or preferred online retailer.

Take a gripping journey into the dark arts of politics and discover how fiction can reflect the truth.

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'Horrible People' by Richard Evans is available now. Photo supplied

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Following a successful 2024 event, the Whitsundays Writers Festival is thrilled to announce its 2025 From the Heart Keynote speaker—Dr Anita Heiss. An award-winning author of 25 books, Dr Heiss is a proud Wiradyuri woman, Indigenous Literacy Foundation Ambassador, and Professor of Communications at the University of Queensland.

Her novels include Manhattan Dreaming, Tiddas, and Barbed Wire and Cherry Blossoms, with Bila Yarrudhanggalangdhuray winning the 2022 NSW Premier’s Literary Prize for Indigenous Writing.

Festival Chair Karen Jacobsen expressed excitement, saying, "It's rare for regional Queenslanders to have the opportunity to meet renowned national and international writers. This is an important event for the Whitsundays and a golden opportunity for readers and writers to visit the heart of the Great Barrier Reef at one of the most ideal times of year.”

Running from September 12–14, 2025, the festival will also feature the prestigious Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards, recognising outstanding unpublished manuscripts and short stories. Supported by the Roderick Centre for Australian Literature at James Cook University, the Best Unpublished Manuscript prize includes $2500.

Writers of all levels, across Australia, are encouraged to submit entries by July 14, 2025. Submission details and entry guidelines are available on the festival’s website.

“This event will bring together creative minds in the picturesque setting of the Whitsundays. What better place to immerse yourself in the brilliance of Australian literature?” remarked Karen. “I strongly advise securing your place at the festival and booking accommodation early to fully enjoy the wonders of the Whitsundays while indulging in the myriad of events the festival has to offer.”

Visit www.whitsundayswriters.com for more information, early bird tickets, and updates on speakers and events.

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Dr Anita Heiss will be a Keynote Speaker at this years Whitsunday Writers Festival. Photo supplied

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The countdown has begun! Gilmour Space Technologies is gearing up for its next big launch from Bowen, with a launch window set to open 'no earlier than' May 15.

The maiden flight of Eris will be the first Australian-designed and built rocked aiming for orbit.

Gilmour Space has received airspace management approval from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority - CASA.

Gilmour Space made history in March last year when its Bowen spaceport was granted the first orbital launch facility licence in Australia, and when it secured the country's first Australian Launch Permit for Eris TestFlight 1 in November.

Now, with airspace arrangements finalised and mandatory notice given to the Australian Space Agency, the company is preparing for liftoff.

Co-founder and CEO of Gilmour Space Adam Gilmour said this will be the first attempt of an Australian rocket to reach orbit from Australian soil.

With the ‘No Earlier Than’ date fast approaching he also highlighted some points of note before the launch.

• It’s important to understand that delays or 'scrubs' are a normal part of rocket launches, often caused by weather or technical issues, and can last from hours to weeks. "Safety is always the top priority. We'll only launch when we're ready, and when conditions are appropriate," he said.

• The first launch is always the toughest, reaching orbit is complex, and setbacks are common. Each moment of flight provides crucial data to improve future rocket performance.

• Launching Australian-made rockets from home soil boosts high-tech jobs, security, economic growth, and our technological independence.

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The family business behind a proposal for an Australian-first, immersive dinosaur experience and mini-golf course on the main street of Airlie Beach, has come forward to address a growing number of community concerns around the look and theme of the project.  

A representative for ‘Jurassic Falls Pty Ltd’, said contrary to some opinions expressed on local social media sites, this was not about bringing “tacky, fake fibreglass dinosaurs” to town.  

“Our Australian-themed dinosaurs are hyper-realistic animatronic models incorporating the latest in AI technology – the first of their kind in Australia,” the spokesperson said.  

“With their simulation of full-range, smooth, dynamic movement, they will look, feel and move like the real thing, offering ‘next level’ interaction with patrons and real ‘wow factor’,” they said.  

With much of the current community commentary based on images of the proposed entrance structure shared from the online Development Application, the proponent’s spokesperson was keen to correct any public perception that this was exactly what would be built.  

“Those images are simply an ‘architectural visualisation collage’ and not an accurate rendering of the finished product,” they explained.  

“The actual finish will be as hyper-realistic as the dinosaurs themselves, including high quality rock that’s indistinguishable from fresh rock carved from the ground, and a real waterfall feature, alluding to both place (the adjacent Airlie Creek) and purpose (the ‘Jurassic Falls’ venue name).

“Overall, our vision for the project is to maintain the pre-existing character of the site by preserving the native trees.

“In doing this we not only minimise the impact on the street façade but also ‘set the scene’, using elements of an existing ‘forest’ to create a ‘natural habitat’ for our dinosaurs, transporting visitors to a day gone by when these magnificent creatures roamed the earth – and yes, even in Airlie Beach!”

Addressing criticisms that dinosaurs were not an appropriate attraction for the town at the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, the proponent’s representative said Jurassic Falls’ intention was to add to the diversity of the region rather than compete with it.  

“There are already other reef-themed proposals for Airlie Beach, as well as plenty of on-water tours through which tourists can experience the actual Whitsundays’ marine life – so why would we compete with existing local businesses or government for this space?” they said.  

“In contrast, dinosaurs are one of the most highly engaging and mesmerising creatures to have walked the earth, piquing the interest of children in particular, world-wide.  

“What we are proposing would give local and visiting families a very different, non-weather-dependent activity, hopefully also resulting in increased length of visitor stays and exponential economic benefit to Airlie Beach.”

Noting that a petition has now been launched against the project, potentially denying the experience to both visiting and local kids, a spokesperson for Wynne Planning and Development Pty Ltd, the company which has lodged the application, said it was important people judged it based on facts.

“Statements have been made in the online petition and comments that are incorrect, including around building heights,” the Wynne Planning and Development representative said.  

“The proposed roof heights are 8.5-metres street-facing (with a 4-metre setback from the street boundary and minimalist stone entry at single storey height), and 8.9-metres to the rear (with a 5-metre setback to the mini-golf roof) – not 15 metres as originally stated in the petition and noting that the proposed roof was only incorporated to create an all-weather accessible facility.  

“Those who are opposing this application should be aware that there are a number of other fully compliant options available to the landowner of this site that would be far more disruptive and less aesthetically pleasing for the Main Street.  

“Under the Planning Scheme, the landowner has the right to remove the trees and erect an 8.5-metre-high building directly on the boundary, stepping back 3 metres to create a podium level and continuing to construct up to 14 metres.  

“This would not only comply with regulations but requires no public consultation, therefore the current proposal is actually one of the least intrusive options in terms of building bulk and removal of vegetation.”

Regarding the remaining issues cited such as registered construction values and resulting infrastructure payments, the Wynne Planning and Development representative said the application did not include any statements or calculations about construction costs.

“The public statements referring to the payment of $150,000 have been taken from the application form, which seeks a declaration on whether ‘Qleave’ has been paid,” they said.

“This payment is required for construction costs over $150,000 and is to be declared at the time of lodging applications for Operational or Building Works, not Material Change of Use.  

“The application has not sought to be exempt from paying the required infrastructure charges as calculated under the regulation and has therefore been assessed for compliancy on all counts.”

As for whether the attraction would be better off somewhere else, the Jurassic Falls spokesperson said while there might well be other locations around the Whitsundays where this type of experience would be welcomed “we don’t own those locations – we own this one”.  

“And for us, this is about the kids – we are a family-run business with the wellbeing of other families and the Whitsunday community at heart,” they said.  

Jurassic Falls is designed to be a fully engaging Australian dinosaur experience from the minute guests walk through the gate, where a 4.5-metre-high T-Rex leans down for a pat on the head.

High grass and plants provide glimpses of the 11 other dinosaurs ahead, leaving patrons curious about what’s around the next corner as they make their way along what at first appears to be a dirt path, but is in fact, a mini-golf course.  

Visitors can choose to play mini-golf or simply wander the course encountering dinosaurs like the 6-metre high, 16-metre long Australotitan, quietly ‘eating’ leaves from the canopy, swinging its head from tree to tree and lowering it close enough for people to touch.  

Incorporating an educational element, each dinosaur has its own digital display coupled with an interactive App, providing questions for the young palaeontologist to answer and a daily prize for the best listener.  

Once they’ve had their fill of dinosaurs, children can play in the Jurassic-age aquarium-themed games arcade at the rear, complete with the latest in virtual projector technology to create an immersive underwater simulation.  

Additional ‘after sunset’ experiences are also planned, including glow-in-the-dark dinosaurs, disco nights and other themed events.  

Members of the community who want Jurassic Falls to go ahead are invited to write to Whitsunday Regional Council, with whom the Development Application is lodged, and voice their approval.

“If those who support this stay silent, it’s a case of the ‘squeaky wheel’ winning by default,” the Jurassic Falls spokesperson said.

“We have 18 summers at best with our kids so let’s make at least one of those an experience to remember in Airlie Beach.”

Public submissions can be made to the assessment manager by emailing info@wrc.qld.gov.au or dropping a hard copy into a Council Customer Service Centre.  

Submissions close on May 14, 2025, and must include the application number 20241233 as well as the name, residential or business address and signature of the person making the submission.

Photo credits: iStock.com/Voren1 and iStock.com/Warpaintcobra

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OPINION PIECE

Australians are paying on average 32 per cent more for electricity than they were three years ago.

Every day, I listen to people in Dawson who tell me one of the biggest pains they feel is the price they now pay to keep the lights on and cool. When people turn on the aircon during a sweltering summer day, they know one flick of a switch is costing more than it should. Pensioners and those on lower incomes tell me they have to choose which appliances to do without.

Electricity pain in Dawson is real. The rising cost of electricity also impacts supply chains and storage of fresh produce.

Higher electricity prices mean we all pay more at the checkout. Power prices are skyrocketing, and with Labor’s green-only strategy, there’s no end in sight.

Labor’s electricity rebate, is not a fix. It’s not a plan. It’s not even a cheap Band-Aid.

Meanwhile, the Coalition has a positive plan to bring energy costs down long-term. Under a Dutton/Littleproud government, a balanced energy mix will deliver the long-term, sustained relief every Australian power user needs and deserves.

Peter Dutton recently announced in his budget reply speech a Coalition plan to open up more gas supply and get it to Aussie consumers fast, by the end of the year.

Long term, nuclear power plants built adjacent to existing coal-fired power stations, without the need for massive new transmission infrastructure, will deliver reliable base load power with zero emissions. The Coalition supports investment in renewables as part of the energy mix, too.

But a green-only strategy is not the solution, and new renewable projects should not come at the expense of valuable farmland or our pristine environments. Albanese and Climate Change Minister Chris Bowen tell us we all need to do our bit for the climate. But their green madness is costing the country, and it needs to stop.

Labor promised $275 lower electricity prices by 2025. Instead, in just three years, Australian households are paying over $1,000 more each year.

Labor isn’t making any promises on power prices this time because they know they have no answers. Worse still, they know their plan is taking Australia in the wrong direction, but they won’t admit it, forging ahead in the hope voters will accept their spin.

A Coalition government will put downward pressure on prices by opening up supply and delivering an energy mix suited to Australia’s needs.

We will take real action to drive power prices back down, so everyone can afford to keep the lights on and stay cool.

Andrew Willcox, Federal Member for Dawson

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The Northern Beaches community is being invited to have their say on the future of their region. With key topics like infrastructure, outdoor spaces, transport, and community events already sparking vibrant discussions, locals are making their voices heard.

Now, residents have the exciting opportunity to take it a step further and join focus groups to help shape the future of the Northern Beaches.

The Your Place, Your Plan – Northern Beaches Mackay Community Plan, is a partnership between the Northern Beaches Community Network and Greater Whitsunday Communities and so far, the response has been resounding with themes raised including:

• Community Connection & Events
• Parks, Nature, and Outdoor Spaces
• Transport Safety and Access
• Infrastructure
• Health Safety and Community Services
• Youth, Families & Inclusive Amenities
• Local Economy and Sustainability

GWC chief executive Carol Norris said the initiative was all about creating a shared vision for the future of the Northern Beaches.

“It’s so good to see residents having their say and letting us know what is important to them and their community,” Ms Norris said.

“No one knows their community as much as the people who live, work, play and raise families there, so that is exactly who we want to hear from.”

Northern Beaches Community Network founder, Rebecca Cooper said the plan gave the Northern Beaches – which spanned the areas of Shoal Point, to Bucasia, Eimeo, Blacks Beach, Sunset Bay, Rural View, Habana and Nindaroo – a chance to speak with one collective voice.

“It’s a way for the community to advocate for what’s needed and help ensure that future plans reflect the community’s voice,” Mrs Cooper said.

“Capturing the voices of the community, and making sure it's truly driven by their needs is how we ensure real, lasting impact across the region.

“To me, community is so powerful… it gives voice to what truly matters and drives meaningful change,” Ms Cooper added.

“It’s about putting the right things on the agenda, and implementing them now so we can all come together and shape the future we want.”

Ms Norris said during the past decade, the Northern Beaches region had experienced rapid growth and was now home to more than 20,000 residents; however, even with the new Northern Beaches Hub under development, despite this growth, services in the region remained limited.

“We’re excited to support a process that puts the vision for the future in the hands of the
community itself.

“Grassroots development like this is essential to building a strong, connected region.”

Anyone interested in contributing, participating, or staying informed can email admin@gwcommunities.org.au, or follow and engage with the Northern Beaches Community – My Community Facebook page.

“This is your place and your plan – and your voice matters,” Mrs Norris said.

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Northern Beaches residents are invited to join focus groups and help shape a community-led plan for the region’s future, with key themes including infrastructure, outdoor spaces, transport, and community connection. Photo source: Greater Whitsunday Communities

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At the peak of her life-threatening battle with a chronic auto immune disease, Andergrove woman Lisa Hodges lost the ability to walk and talk.

After becoming seriously ill in November 2023, she spent almost three months in hospital in intensive care and the infectious diseases ward battling autoimmune hepatitis and cirrhosis of the liver. Lisa then developed cryptococcal meningitis while on immunosuppressant drugs, a dangerous fungal infection of the tissue covering the brain and spinal cord.

While at the Townsville University Hospital, she endured 14 spinal taps on consecutive days to remove fluid from her brain.

“I lost a lot of my cognitive function and physical ability; I was so ill, I couldn’t do anything for myself,” Lisa said.

After five weeks in Townsville and another six weeks at Mackay Base Hospital, by February 2024 Lisa had recovered enough to transition to Community Health and Therapy Services (CHATS), located at Mackay Base Hospital, to start rehabilitation.

CHATS is a multidisciplinary team of allied health, medical and nursing professionals including physiotherapists, occupational therapists, social workers, speech pathologists, dietitians, psychologists and rehabilitation consultants and assistant staff.

Lisa started in the Transition Care Program (TCP) with CHATS upon discharge from hospital. One of her many goals was learning to walk again.

“I was at CHATS a minimum of twice a week to see the physio for an hour each
session,” Lisa said.

“I also saw the occupational therapists, a speech therapist, social worker, dieticians and had CHATS’ nursing support at home for assistance with showering and transport to and from the hospital.”

Lisa admits she was initially frustrated by her slow physical progress.

“I had open wounds that would not heal and I was confined to a wheelchair when I started at CHATS,” Lisa said.

“I eventually progressed from the wheelchair to a walker, then to a four-prong walking stick, then to a walking stick,” she said.

“This transition was over about six months until I could walk independently.”

Lisa said she was very grateful for the continual support, care and motivation of the CHATS team throughout her recuperation. Today, her liver condition is managed with regular medication and ongoing monitoring and she has even started driving short distances again.

She credits CHATS with helping her regain her dignity and independence after such a serious illness.

“I cannot speak highly enough for the support and the expertise of the staff at CHATS,” Lisa said.

“They have helped me through not only a very difficult physical journey, but supported me unconditionally with my emotional recovery.

“The amazing team has given me back my independence and confidence. I have lost considerable strength but can now get around independently again.

“Every person at CHATS has been amazing. From the administrative staff through to the hands-on practitioners, they have all been major contributor to where I am today.

“The environment creates a supportive ‘family’ that have helped me so much over the
past 18 months.”

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Andergrove woman Lisa Hodges credits Community Health and Therapy Services (CHATS), located at Mackay Base Hospital, with helping her regain her dignity and independence after serious illness. Photo credit: MHHS

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