John Compton was a pioneer of the Proserpine district - the very first Chairman of the Proserpine Shire Council (1910) and a mover and shaker in the separation of Proserpine from Wangaratta (Bowen Rural Shire).

Born in Herefordshire England March 14 1865, he migrated to Bowen in 1883. Though working in the Bowen district, in October 1884 he purchased 160 acres of land at Mt Julian (called “Fern Hill”).

In 1893, he married Sarah Gray and together they travelled to stations where John, a proficient carpenter, constructed stockyards and homes. In 1895, the Compton family settled on a 50 acre block on Glen Isla estate. At that time, plans were underway for progression in the sugar industry. In the early 1900s, John and his family moved to his farm “Fern Hill” described in his son Alex’s diaries, as being “two square miles and (extending) as far as Palm Creek on one side and Proserpine River on the other.” John Compton started clearing land in time for the first crushing at Proserpine Sugar Mill in 1897. It was wild country in those days.

John also purchased land in Proserpine’s Main Street (portion 193) and also owned a farm named “Auburn” in the area where Proserpine’s Hospital and Fresh Fields Shopping Centre now stand.

A story of many firsts …

In 1896, John Compton was one of the first shareholders in the Proserpine Central Sugar Mill and was one of the first suppliers of cane to the mill when it opened in 1897. In 1908, the “Port Denison Times” described him as one of the largest canegrowers in the district.

John Compton was one of the original members of the Proserpine Progress Association (1897) and an active member of the Hospital Committee in its early years.

As an early Proserpine representative on the Bowen - Proserpine Tramway Board, he made many visits on horseback to meetings in Bowen agitating for a separate shire for Proserpine. His dream became a reality when the first meeting of Proserpine Shire, newly separated from Wangaratta, was held on March 11, 1910 and he was elected its first Chairman. It was a fitting reward that he held this position when the Bowen – Proserpine Railway was opened later that year.  

The first church to open in Proserpine, the Presbyterian Church, was built on land donated by John Compton and the first show was held in that same year (1899) in his shed on his land on the corner of Main Street and Herbert Street. The community picnic held to celebrate King George V’s Coronation was also held on this spot in 1911.

In 1913, the first Council Chambers was established in a building in Main Street that was purchased from John Compton.

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The ensuing years of John’s life were characterised by a propensity to shift about. After building a house on his “Auburn” farm in town, he sold his Mt Julian farm (circa 1915). Just prior to this, he purchased 10 acres of farm land from G A Waite to add to the town property. Then in 1920, he sold “Auburn” moving further down to another farm, “Yelvertoft”, in the vicinity of what is known today as Glen Isla turn off.

In 1922, John sold this and moved the family to Warwick however a few months later they returned to Proserpine due to his ill health. Still owning a residence in Herbert Street, the family remained there until John’s pioneering spirit impelled him to take up 150 acres at Banana Pocket (now known as Lethebrook) where he once again built a new home and cleared land to grow cane.

After a life of hard work and service to the Proserpine district community, John Compton died on July 27 1932

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Story and photo courtesy Proserine Historical Society.

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Caption: John Compton - the very first Chairman of the Proserpine Shire Council (1910)

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Peter Hinschen

Cannon Valley

I'd like to see a freeze on rates, every year they seem to go up. A freeze on rates and I’d like know before the election what their intentions are in dragging that wind farm between here and Collinsville. I think someone should come forward and let us know whether they want to approve it. That’s my opinion.

Liz Pearson

Cannonvale

I think the first thing is obviously the roads and the main town of Airlie Beach it's just, Airlie Beach is abysmal, you know, for a tourist town, it just looks terrible. From cleaning up the footpaths to making it tidy, to uplift it and just to be listened to about those kind of things. And every year at Christmas we don’t get any decorations, things like that. It's a simple thing, you know, we're a great town. And yes, we need that uplift.

Alan Steffes

Bowen

I’ll give you a prime example, I’m looking at going to the counter, you know what the girl told me? I can’t help you otherwise I’ve got to help everyone else, so guess how many people had their hand up, just me. I want to be more talked to, don’t go palming me off saying ‘oh I can’t help you, or I’ve got to help everyone else’. And I’d like more things for kids but other than that they’re not too bad and well potholes, that’s just part of life.

Sheena

Cannonvale

I don't think they do enough for senior people. So, anything from the new council will be good.

They have senior classes in Bowen, why can't they have them here? I've asked the previous council or previous mayor. She wasn't able to help at all. That's my main concern. Otherwise, they're pretty good, I think.

Noel Wolsten

Brandy Creek

Well, I just want development to be less commercial. I don't want any high rise. I think we're already at saturation point with development in the foreshore anyway. I've been here for 50 years and it’s just not the same place. I know progress, it happens everywhere but it just goes beyond. I just want them to be gentle with the nature.

Wayne Bolitho

Cannon Valley

The interest of the local government has been the bloody high rise down the road and apparently its gonna happen anyway. A high rise that close, I don’t think that’s good policies. At Surfers Paradise, it’s all high rises but they don’t see it being an issue, and it’s all been approved, council approved it, council even went to court over it to try and get it approved, so yeah I don’t really like it. You know what I want as priorities? Roads and rubbish.

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In 20 years, the population on the Whitsunday Coast (Cannonvale/Airlie Beach area) has almost doubled while the infrastructure to support that growth has never happened.

What I bring to the table is an ability to fight for more than a fair share for Division 2.

I’m about getting things done in the area, not endlessly trying to find a reason to say no or put-up roadblocks to stop something that will help our region grow and prosper.

10 Reasons to Vote 1 Tony Price for Division 2

1:

Pro-Business: I have been in business in the Whitsundays for 45 years and totally support the business, tourism and development sector.

2:

The Big Picture: I am dedicated to ensuring vital infrastructure is established and planned for through council initiatives, state/federal support or private investment including improved road infrastructure, Aged Care facilities, planning for a State High School and Emergency Hospital near Cannonvale and sporting/recreation and leisure facilities.

3:

Action on housing and accommodation: We’re losing highly trained workers and their families. There are hundreds of lots approved but not developed in the Cannonvale corridor. A stumbling block is two major round-abouts. Let’s meet with the developers and Main Roads to find a solution and bring properties onto the market.

4:

Unparalleled Local Knowledge: I know the area from the Whitsunday Islands to the Coal fields so understand other divisional needs when it comes to negotiations to ensure the best result for Division 2.

5:

Proven Councillor Experience: I was the Division 2 Councillor for two terms, serving on several boards including Tourism Whitsunday and North Queensland Economic Development Board.

6:

Effective Communication and Negotiation: I know all four unopposed elected Councillors. I was able to get things done as a Councillor as I could work and reason with other councillors for the best possible outcomes for Division 2.

7:

Tenacious Advocate: I helped organise the ‘Save our Airport’ protest and secure funding for projects including Airlie Lagoon and PCYC I am willing to stand-up and make some noise for the Whitsunday Coast’s rights and future.

8:

Grounded in Common Sense: After 45 years in business, I can see the issues clearer and make decisions based on logic and a positive outlook.

9:

Family Values: I raised my four children in the Whitsundays and have 11 grandchildren (1-21 years) – I know what the community wants and expects from their local representative.

10:

Community focused: I started the Cannonvale Airlie Beach Junior Rugby League so kids on the Whitsunday Coast had an opportunity to train and play closer to home. Recently we donated $6,000.00 to junior sporting clubs in the area following a sports reunion.

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Authorised by Tony Price, 34 Faust Street Proserpine, QLD 4800

Tony Price presenting a cheque of $6,000 to junior sporting clubs in the Whitsunday area after a Reunion in Airlie Beach. Photo supplied

Sarah Watson From Lightning Comms

Star sign: Capricorn

Fav Colour: Green

Fav holiday destination: Fiji

Fav quote: Life’s too short to drink bad wine.

Describe your personality in three words: Focused, loyal, compassionate

Sarah Watson is the shining force behind Lightning Comms, a business she runs alongside her husband. She takes on a multitude of roles, including office manager, all-rounder and helping hand on site when needed. The businesses specialises in information and communications technology and security. And while it is quite a specialised field with technology constantly changing and products forever evolving, Sarah and her team consider themselves to be experts in the field and are dedicated to ensuring their work is consistently up to date.

The team work on residential, commercial, government and school projects and are certified cablers for two different data cable brands which allows the company to offer 25-year warranties on the cabling systems installed.

In light of International Women’s Day, Sarah is proud to be a woman in business as she role models for her children that “whatever goals they have or want in life, if they try hard and give it their all, they can achieve them.”

Although Sarah owns her own successful business, she touches on the influences around her, like her mother and mother-in-law who both have strong work ethics, giving 110 per cent into their work. Both these women have played a big part in Sarah’s devotion and dedication to her very own career journey.

With an ever-growing business, Sarah often finds it hard to balance home and work life but understands the importance of family time and is a pro at organising meal plans, groceries, home planners for activities, appointments and extracurricular activities throughout the week.

Sarah finds joy in spending quality time with her husband Sam and three children, Ruby, Xavier and Willow along with their beloved cat Eddie. She also loves relaxing with a good glass of wine.

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Jade Richardson from Tourism Whitsundays

Star sign: Cancer

Fav Colour: Light Blue

Fav holiday destination: Anywhere with a beach

Describe your personality in three words: Kind, passionate, enthusiastic

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given? from Robin Sharma: “A burning sense of passion is the most potent fuel for your dreams.”

Coming from a small coastal country town in South Australia called Yankalilla, Jade moved to the Whitsunday region seventeen years ago and says she is here to stay after falling in love with the area, claiming it to be a perfect place to raise kids, live a good life and stay connected to all of its natural beauty.

Combining her love for nature and all things Whitsundays, Jade is now the Membership and Marketing Coordinator at Tourism Whitsundays and is fully dedicated to establishing quality communication with members, both current and prospective. The organisation is deeply committed to showcasing the Whitsunday region as a tourism destination and works hand in hand with Tourism and Events Queensland and the Whitsunday Regional Council to lead the marketing efforts.

Jade reflects on the importance of International Women’s Day and what it means to her as she touches on her pride in being part of a predominantly female team. As a woman in business, surrounded by many other strong, intelligent, and goal-focused women, Jade is reminded daily of what can be achieved with an abundance of focus and inspiration in the workplace. Jade was left inspired by Naomi McKinnon’s leadership and focused work ethic, she learnt that regardless of how life changes we can rebuild incredible futures for ourselves and our children. Most of all Jade is inspired by the everyday leaders of her community.

When she’s not chasing her career dreams, Jade likes to take her kids to the beach for rock walks and enjoys outdoor activities.

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Wendy Bickhoff

Star sign: Virgo

Fav Colour: Blue

Fav holiday destination: Tasmania

Fav quote: When one door closes another one opens.

Wendy Bickhoff was born in Bowen with a heritage line dating back to 1863 when her family arrived on the first migrant ship in North Queensland from England.  She attended school through to grade 10 until she joined the workforce at a local IGA, and later worked in a Pharmacy which also included a banking agency.  After living in Mackay for a short while, she returned to Bowen to run a grazing operation for 16 years before buying Corals City 2 Country.

Wendy is one of the owners and is the lead manager at Corals City 2 Country, specialising in fitting shoes especially for people with feet problems. Wendy was born with turned feet and has endured problems with finding suitable shoes throughout her life, thus understanding those who struggle to find the right shoe when dealing with similar conditions.

In honour of International Women’s Day, Wendy addresses that women bring a different point of view to a business. Stemming from her mother’s dedication and ‘never say no attitude’ Wendy says her mother is her greatest role model and mentor, touching on the importance of having strong people in life to keep us going when life gets in the way.

Emphasising on the importance of family time, Wendy likes to cook, watch a good movie as well as spend quality time with her two children and a ‘very naughty’ Jack Russel who believes he is the most important family member.

Corals City 2 Country is a unique business that has something for everyone… from your hat to your hanky and even engraving. The store stocks well-known brands like Ariat, Wrangler and Thomas Cook to Orientique, Escape and Sass.

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Coral Sea Resort was transformed into a sea of purple and white on Sunday when around 120 people celebrated International Women’s Day with the Zonta Club of the Whitsundays.

The guests were greeted to a glass of sparkles on arrival and enjoyed a three-course meal that set the stage for a sensational afternoon.

At the event the young and talented Scarlet Foti was given recognition for her astonishing work.

At just 17 she has developed a self-guided book for neurodivergent children and has an active involvement in various community services, such as Occupational Therapy Whitsundays and she also teaches for the Music Evolution.

Scarlet was given a scholarship on the day and congratulated by all in attendance.

Dame Carol Kidu also attended the event and donated a handcrafted item from Papua New Guinea which was auctioned off during the afternoon.

Member for Whitsunday, Amanda Camm and Julie Hall, Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor were also in attendance.

The event was full of raffles and auctions, and it served as Zonta’s fundraiser for their many ongoing projects and scholarship.

The Zonta Club of the Whitsunday expresses its gratitude to all donations and sponsors that participated in making the weekend’s event so special and impactful.

Zonta is a group based in the Whitsundays with the mission to raise money for struggling women, whether that would be women in third world countries or local.

The Zonta Club of the Whitsundays hold monthly meetings every third Thursday and everyone is welcome to join.

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Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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Guests had a fantastic time at this years’ International Women’s Day High Tea hosted by The Zonta Club of Bowen on Sunday.

A crowd of 85 attended the event held at Wangaratta Bowls Club in Queens Beach.

Attendees reportedly had a whirl and said the food was amazing.

Numerous guest speakers attended the event, including Associate Professor Carmen Parter who spoke about her family life, work life and her strong belief of standing together united.

Suited to Success representative, Emma Galligan gave a presentation by dressing Zonta employee Nan, in three different outfits with varying accessories to create four different outfits for different scenarios.

Suited to Success provides free styling, clothing, and career support services for people in need throughout Queensland. 

Final guest speaker was Katrina Smith, she is studying Bachelor of Nursing through Central Qld University, while also working at Bowen Hospital and she won the 2024 Bursary Award on the day.

Other awards at the event were the Community Recognition Awards and this year more categories were added.

The Agent of Change award is given to a local lady or ladies who are recognised for their tireless work towards bettering the community.

This years’ winners were, Chris Storrie, Anne Steen, Jenn Honnery, Dee Jastremski, Shelley Tait and Kasie Lane.

Mover of Mountains award is given to the local lady or ladies who have achieved big things for the Bowen community with Christine Coventry and Julies Jurgens winning the award this year.

The Group Greatness is awarded to a local club or group that has proved themselves numerous times to be pillars of the community and this years’ winner was The Bowen Community Op-Shop Volunteer Ladies.

Susanne Gaffney; Sharyn Stoessel; Cheryl Throssell; Carmen Lynch; Heather Johnston; Christine Prosser.

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1: L to R: Chris Storrie; Anne Steen; Jenn Honnery; Dee Jastremski; Shelley Tait; & Kasie Lane with Zonta President Jacintha Nawia

2: Christine Coventry; Julies Jurgens with Zonta President Jacintha Nawia

3: L to R:  Susanne Gaffney; Sharyn Stoessel; Cheryl Throssell; Carmen Lynch; Heather Johnston; Christine Prosser, with Zonta President Jacintha Nawia

4: Associate Professor Carmen Parter  

5: Emma Galligan from Suited to Success

6: 2024 Bursary winner Katrina Smith

All images supplied

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With friendships made over the pool table, Anchor Bar tattoos seen around town and people recommending the ‘retreat from the main-street’ as you board a plane from Brisbane – it is easy to see how this iconic local venue has become both a meaningful and memorable place for many people over the years.

Opening its doors 10 years ago, Anchor Bar came to life when couple Josh Knutson and Leah McMillan saw an ad in the local newspaper and jumped at the opportunity to run their own place.  

The pair had met in Airlie Beach a few years earlier and had known each other from their homeland of New Zealand before this chance reconnection changed the trajectory of their lives.

Leah recalls that Josh had been working in construction and landscaping on the main-street revitalisation project when she called into town for two weeks to take a sailing course.

Having travelled the world for five years prior, when the couple met, Leah decided to stay and make a life here in Airlie Beach with Josh.

“You travel all around the world, but end up finding another Kiwi from your hometown!” she laughed.

When they first took over the venue it needed a little love as it had previously been a quiet bar that did not serve food and predominantly looked after resort clientele.

With a vision to create something different, but in-fitting with the casual coastal atmosphere of the town, Josh and Leah began to organically develop the offering.

Over the past decade Anchor Bar has evolved to become the popular place it is today.

“It’s our secret hideaway, the ‘retreat from the main street’ and it has its own unique identity, its own cult following,” shared Leah.

“We’ve seen people with Anchor Bar tattoos and had people come in who said they’d been told about us while boarding the plane from Brisbane.

“We are loved by locals but also travellers and holidaymakers who come through town.”

When asked the reason for their success, Leah said it is to do with consistency, especially when it comes to food.

“Putting consistently good food out has been our main goal,” she shared.

“We saw the potential to make this beautiful space into a family-friendly spot for everyone and I think over the years we have achieved that.”

With limited hospitality experience before they opened Anchor Bar, Josh and Leah say it was a whirlwind first few years when they managed the business before buying it in 2014 and then finally purchasing the freehold in 2017.

“It’s such a fun industry to be in and we love it!” Leah said.

“Usually, you pay to go out but we’re getting paid to be out and have fun!

“All this would not have been possible without our fantastic staff, our loyal locals and of course our amazing local suppliers – thank you all so much for making Anchor Bar what it is today.”

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It was three years ago that Rabia opened the doors to Palace Hair and Beauty in Proserpine, after trading in the same location for 15 years as AMAC Hair Design with a long-standing clientele.    

Prior to taking over the salon, Rabia had been running a variety of businesses for almost 20 years in several different countries, which provided a solid foundation in business fundamentals to bring to her new hometown of Prosperine, whilst learning and loving the “Prossy” way of doing things.  

As Rabia grew her customer base, she identified a gap in the market for a proper Barbershop, and after securing the shop next door, proceeded to open the Kingsmen Barbershop with a focus on traditional barbering techniques and modern trends.

The mission of the Palace Hair and Beauty & Kingsmen Barbershop is to provide exceptional hair and grooming services while fostering a sense of community and belonging for clients.

The team understand the importance of looking and feeling great and are dedicated to helping individuals achieve their desired style with personalised consultations and top-notch services.

Understanding the unique style and preferences of their clients is key, given a common challenge is discovering a preferred stylist has moved away or relocated to the mines. Rabia and her team address this challenge by ensuring the entire team are consistently trained in all customer preferences and styles, so if a team member relocates, the rest of the team can continue to take good care of that customer.  

As a business owner, Rabia suggests that it is imperative to look after your staff and customers, communicate effectively to promote good management, seek feedback from clients and staff, and share this feedback with the team to facilitate improvements.

Rabia says “Being a member of the Chamber has enabled me to receive support and advice to broaden my understanding of local market demands.The Chamber of Commerce truly shares their knowledge and leadership, as well as providing member education and engagement, which helps alleviate the day-to-day pressures of running of a small business.”

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Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

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Caption: The dedicated team at Kingsmen Barbershop. Photo supplied

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The Bowen tourism community are celebrating this week with news that one of their own was awarded Gold at the Grey Nomad Awards held over the weekend.

Queens Beach Tourist Village once again received the top gong in the Best Large Caravan Park Category.

This is the third consecutive year the park has received the award which means it has now been inducted into the Hall of Fame for these awards.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said it was fantastic news that the Queen’s Beach Tourist Village had won Gold in their category again in the Grey Nomads Awards.

“Peter and Jennie and the Team at Queen’s Beach run a fantastic park. They are also great ambassadors for Bowen and the greater Whitsundays region,” Ms Abernethy said.

In addition to this, two other local hot spots were finalists in the awards.

“We were also very pleased that the Big Mango was named a finalist in the Best Attraction category and that Bowen was also a national finalist in the category for the Best Grey Nomad Friendly Town,” she added.

“This was the first time we had nominated for these awards so to be named finalists in both categories was very pleasing.”

The Grey Nomad Awards shines a light on the best places for older travellers to stay and play around the country.

The Awards are judged by tourism leaders from across the country who offer valuable insights and detailed feedback to each entrant, ensuring nominees have practical tips to improve their tourism offering for the future benefit of their business, their community and visitors.

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Caption: Queens Beach Tourist Village once again received the top gong in the Best Large Caravan Park Category. Photo supplied

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Tourism representatives from across the region are heading to Darwin this weekend for the much-anticipated 2023 Australian Tourism Awards which is due to be held this evening.

Still on a high from winning the trifecta at the 2022 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards which were held in Sydney last year, there is a general atmosphere of excitement surrounding the event once again.

Rick Hamilton, CEO of Tourism Whitsundays, says he is thrilled to attend the event again this year.

“This event is the pinnacle of awards in our industry and The Whitsundays is well represented this year,” he shared.

“The businesses who are in the running tonight entered and won gold at the 38th Annual Queensland Tourism Awards in November 2023, along with the gold winners from the other states.

“Securing gold in 26 per cent of the state award categories, The Whitsundays claimed seven gold, two silver, five bronze, and one highly commended award, marking another significant achievement for the region.

“We’re all wishing the best of luck to Ocean Rafting, BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort, Pinnacles, Airlie Beach, Magnums Accommodation Airlie Beach and Whitsunday Coast Airport.”

Caption: Whitsunday representatives attending the 2022 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards in Sydney last year. Photo supplied

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With a reputation for amazing food that is simple yet cooked to perfection and packed with flavour, it is easy to how Anchor Bar is booked out almost every night.

From the beginning Josh and Leah knew their point of difference would be consistently good food that kept people coming back whether it be a few times a week or a few times a year.

“You know the chicken wings are going to be the same whether you come back every few months or once a year,” explained Leah.

“People love that, and we believe it’s a big draw card which keep the coming back.”

Another drawcard is the flexibility and diversity of food styles – whether you are having a romantic dinner for two, a lively group of friends, or even want to hire the venue out privately for a 100 people – Anchor Bar will do their best to accommodate.

Their popular food platters make it easy for people to share and enjoy a selection of almost every dish on the menu.

And for larger parties, Anchor Bar offer a buffet-style setting where guests can serve themselves and enjoy a social, comfortable atmosphere.

The Chef’s Special Board is also a popular choice, offering additional menu options that have been lovingly created and are a little different.

The Specials Board is where the in-house chefs are able to use their knowledge of cuisine to bring inspiration from seasons and local produce to the plate.

And of course, at the foundation of the menu is the incredible local meats and seafoods that are sourced from nearby quality suppliers.

“We love working with local suppliers and with Fishi and Master Butchers, we know the quality, and it’s a privilege to use their produce in our dishes.”

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As soon as you walk into Anchor Bar you are instantly struck by the most majestic sea views that open out before you like a picture-perfect postcard right before your eyes.

Renowned for being the ‘retreat from the street’, Anchor Bar is tucked away, a few minutes’ walk up the hill from the main street of Airlie Beach, at the Terraces Resort.

Prior to becoming Anchor Bar, the venue was known as Terraces and very much a part of the resort complex.

It was a proud moment for Josh and Leah when Anchor Bar became famous in its own right, known as the ‘secret gem’ with the stunning views that you ‘simply must visit while you’re in town’.

The view is made even more spectacular by the scenic swimming-pool that sits at the centre.

Guests who are dining at Anchor Bar are welcome to sign-in and will receive a fob key that allows them full use of the swimming-pool.

This means that a lunch-time catch-up can easily lead into an afternoon session by the pool and locals only need to walk up the hill to feel like they are having a holiday in their own town.

All seating at Anchor Bar is styled around the view and every table has stunning vistas out to the Coral Sea.

In the winter months guests can watch whales as they breach in the baby, often with their calves in tow.

Frequently, cruise ships can also been seen from this serene aspect atop the hill.

With a casual beach atmosphere and the feeling you are on a permanent holiday, Anchor Bar transports you to a time where your cares are distant memories and your pleasure receptors are on fire.

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Famous for hosting epic milestone birthday parties, but also adept at providing a beautiful backdrop for any occasion, Anchor Bar is the perfect location for almost any event.

With large share platters that can either be served to the table or displayed in a buffet style format, your guests will be excited about both the party and the food when you host at Anchor Bar.

Josh and Leah both love the fact that Anchor Bar has been a part of many key moments in people’s lives – from weddings to christenings, to staff parties and everything in between.

They have watched babies grow-up and they have witnessed moments of love and friendship which make their jobs feel even more special.

Entertain Me

Known as one of the must-see live music venues in town, Anchor Bar delivers some of the best live music from its scenic stage at the heart of the venue.

Weekends come alive with song, whether it be acoustic guitarists playing blissful tunes or Airlie Beach Festival of Music performances that attract the bigger crowds for the party atmosphere when the event takes place in November each year.

A big supporter of live music and of local musicians, Josh and Leah invest in keeping local entertainment alive and kicking while delivering authentic and enriching experiences for their patrons.

A Cocktail In Paradise

Sea, sun and a swimming-pool create a holiday atmosphere, but nothing completes the picture more than a tropical cocktail to add a bit of flair and pizzazz to the experience.

Anchor Bar specialises in fruity, tropical cocktails and the stunning original timber bar is adept at pumping them out with the quick and efficient bar staff working to create the drink of your dreams.

While there is no specific Happy Hour, Josh and Leah aim to keep the prices low all day long.

“We always have a $5 beer and a $12 cocktail on the board,” said Leah.

BEST COCKTAIL: The Spicy Margarita

On The Menu

From freshly shucked oysters to chicken wings, poolside burgers to share platters, the Anchor Bar kitchen celebrates all food, cooked well and packed with flavour.

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Why not spend some quality time with your girlfriends and help raise money for breast cancer awareness and research?

Sure to be a Saturday afternoon well spent, this Breast Cancer Fundraiser, hosted by Espresso and Bloom, with catering by Whisper Gin Bar and Restaurant, has an all star cast.

Tickets are only $75 and include canapes, a welcome glass of bubbles, auction paddle and a lucky door prize.

Don’t miss the exclusive spread of auction items, donated from businesses in the region, especially for the event. Some of these include businesses such as Coral Sea Resort, Cruise Whitsundays, The Belvedere, GLO Aesthetics, Whitsunday Green and Principle Movements, plus so much more!

And with Whisper Gin Bar offering to keep the party going with their courtesy bus straight to KC’s Bar and Grill’s front step, you can hit the town, knowing you’ve helped the Breast Cancer Foundation.

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WHAT: Espresso and Bloom Breast Cancer Fundraiser
WHERE: Whisper Gin Bar
WHEN: Saturday, March 23, from 2pm to 6pm
TICKETS: www.espressoandbloom.com.au

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I am so excited! “It’s Autumn”.

Autumn in the Whitsundays means temperatures drop into the high twenties instead of low thirties, the humidity drops, rainfall decreases (so ready for that!) and Veggie Gardens get started. What isn’t there to love about Autumn in the Whitsundays?

March is still a transition month, so not quite time to get planting every imaginable tropical kitchen garden food, that’s the April celebration. March is all about preparation in my vegetable garden.

Vegetables are hungry feeders, so your soil preparation is essential for good, strong, healthy growth throughout your entire growing season. With the best months to start planting out your vegetable garden in the Whitsundays being April and May, soil preparation starts now.

Right now. Today!

Adding aged compost and manure to your garden beds now will improve your veggie growing success tenfold. Dig it into your soil and then cover it with mulch (my go to is cut sugar cane mulch) to keep weeds at bay, regulate soil temperature and keep in moisture (yes I know, it’s hard to believe but before long that will be an issue).

You’ll want to leave this to sit for a good two to three weeks before you start planting.

COMPOST OPTIONS

In a perfect world you would make your own compost. However, in a time poor world this is not something everyone prioritises. Whitpro has numerous bagged compost options you can improve your soil with, it’s a very important part of your vegie growing process, so get started today and reap the rewards in the coming months.

MANURE OPTIONS

Poultry manure is my go-to, but you don’t want to burn your new seedlings, so be careful if you have your own chooks and you are transferring it into your garden. Make sure it has been aged and use this sparingly. Alternatively, if you don’t have chooks then Whitpro has bagged manure ready to go straight into your garden beds. Worm castings are another bagged option and being new to Whitpro supplies, it will be something I’ll be playing with this season.

TOP TIP

Just starting on your veggie growing adventure, want to involve the children or wanting to expand your veggie growing space?

How about investing in landscape rings, they are easy to put in place and then simply fill with soil, they are raised, they look good, and you can simply remove them once the growing season is done if you have other future plans for the space. Whitpro has different sizes available, I’ve added five to my growing space this year. Watch this space.

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