Sarina residents now have a safe and welcoming space to connect, learn new skills, make friends, and have fun, thanks to the recent opening of selectability's Mental Health Hub on Broad St. 
 
The hub is focused on improving mental wellbeing and promoting independent living, offering a wide range of tailored services, including one-on-one support and group activities to suit a variety of interests.
 
Metta Sands-Paton, the region's team leader, said programs at the hub were personalised to meet each individual's unique needs. 
 
"Our aim is to ensure that everyone feels heard, supported, and empowered to take control of their wellbeing," Metta said. 
 
“Being a local I have been able to use my experience, expertise and knowledge of Sarina to establish a service that supports the region’s needs. 
 
"Sarina is a close-knit community, and it’s wonderful to see locals accessing the support they have traditionally had to travel out of town for.”
 
With a focus on building self-confidence and independence, the hub provides an environment where locals can take part in a diverse range of activities, from creative classes to skill-building workshops and social gatherings.

Metta said group programs were a great way to overcome loneliness, make friends and stay connected to the community.
 
“The Clubhouse program offers something for everyone. Whether it’s art and craft sessions, life skills workshops, social activities, or games and a cuppa – we welcome everyone from all walks of life,” said Metta. 

“Our team provides support under the NDIS – and if you don’t have a plan, don’t worry – we also provide services government-funded wellbeing programs.”
 
If you are curious and would like to find out more, drop into 29 Broad St Sarina and chat to Metta and the team – or you can visit selectability.com.au/sarina.

‍

A mate of mine has got one of those modern cars that never shut up. It can’t keep secrets either.
He works in the city and when he jumps in the car around 11.30am on a weekday, it announces: “The Austral Hotel is three minutes away.”
A bit forward, in my view. The car thinks it knows him pretty well and feels it can predict where he is going and what he’s likely to be up to. My friend would like to hear a bit less talk and a bit more keeping your thoughts to yourself, thank you.
But in the world of artificial intelligence and digital everything there are all sorts of traps and challenges.
I walked past a busker outside a shopping centre the other day and couldn’t toss him a coin because I don’t carry cash these days.
The business model of a busker has to have changed now that people like me tap their phones to pay for everything. Do buskers now need an Eftpos device? It’s not really the same.
We all face challenges of the modern world. Technology helps us, so it is important that we understand it and make the best use of it that we can.
That is definitely the case in real estate, where we now use drones for photos and digital sites and social media for a large portion of the advertising.
But I feel there is a general push for “back to basics” service.
There have been a couple of elections this year that I feel were decided by the “back to basics” demands of voters. First the Queensland State election and then the US election.
Rather than focusing on fringe issues and agendas identified by the woke brigade, voters were more interested in cost of living, the economy, the rule of law and feeling safe. Bill Clinton summed it up years ago when he was running for president and said: “It’s the economy, stupid.”
When people went to vote this year they wanted candidates to show they were going to focus on them and the basic, important things that really affect their lives … not the peripheral stuff.
Those of us in business, and definitely in real estate, need to remember that among all the digital wizardry that is part of what we do, the basics still count.
Taking and returning phone calls, providing information that buyers and sellers need, being friendly and available no matter how busy and stressful our jobs can be.
The algorithms that help us target potential buyers for a property on social media are important and must be used. But they don’t replace the “back to basics” work that we need to do.
I recently advertised a property for sale in this magazine. It was slightly out of the Mackay suburban area so many potential buyers hadn’t gone on to the digital sites and searched under that particular suburb.
Those buyers saw the property in this magazine after flicking to the real estate section. It wasn’t in the suburbs they had been looking in on the digital sites. But they came across it in the magazine and it ticked the boxes in terms of size, features and still being close to town.
It was a great sale that relied on getting the basics right and making use of a bit of traditional advertising.
Speaking of tradition, I wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. This will be my final column for the year and I look forward to refreshing and being back on these pages next year.
Meanwhile I need to try to find a coin for the Christmas pudding … you definitely can’t do that with a digital scanner.

‍

School is winding down, workloads are becoming lighter, and people are making fools of themselves at the Christmas party.
Christmas time for me is always a question of where am I now?
Flying home from wherever life has us at the time, whether it's Canberra, Darwin or Mackay, I'm always flying home.
But, not this year. I’ll be driving down the beautiful coastline to Byron Bay, shout out to Mum and Dad for organising our family holiday.
It just goes to show, that even at 27, Mum and Dad are still sorting family getaways, so hang on for as long as you can kids.
Whether you're staying in the Mackay/Whitsunday region or heading away, be safe this Christmas, and enjoy the time with your friends, family, pets, or whoever you're spending the time with.
2025 will soon be here, and it's gonna be a fantastic year.
Star Mackay and the Whitsundays will be right there with ya.
‍

Jake

The team at Mackay and Whitsunday Life extends our warmest wishes to Mr Paul O'Connor as he embarks on his well-deserved retirement.
Throughout his remarkable career in radio, Mr O'Connor has been a mentor and leader to the energetic teams at STAR and 4MK, shaping the region's media landscape and supporting the growth of countless young professionals. His commitment to excellence and passion for the industry have left a lasting legacy.
While we’ll miss seeing you in action, we hope retirement brings you ample time to enjoy with your family. Congratulations, Mr O'Connor, on a stellar career, and thank you for your invaluable contributions to our community!
‍

Paul O’Connor and Mayor Greg Williamson. Photo credit: Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce

‍

Great things happen when women support women.

This was abundantly evident among the 125 Whitsunday women who stepped out in support of Women’s Legal Service Queensland (WLSQ) at The Garden Bar in Airlie Beach last Friday afternoon.

Together with a humbling array of local businesses providing services, donations and raffle prizes for the ‘Team Whitsundays Dancing CEOs’ event, this powerhouse collective raised a whopping $12,000-plus in just four short hours of fun, camaraderie and friendship.

WLSQ Ambassador and Team Whitsundays Mentor, Katelyn Aslett-Collins, said examples of generosity and kindness like this were among the reasons she was proud to have brought the organisation’s flagship fundraiser to the region, with high hopes of achieving outcomes specifically tailored to regional women.

“The work WLSQ does is about breaking the cycle of domestic violence in our communities and while we know this is a prevalent issue in regional and remote areas like ours, statistically fewer regional women are currently accessing their services,” Ms Aslett-Collins said.

“We need women here and in other remote areas of Queensland to know there is a statewide helpline where they can get free, legal advice, on a range of issues, including financial abuse, coercive control and child support matters – and ultimately for me, increasing access for regional women to WLSQ’s on-the-ground outreach services is also an end goal,” she said.

“In the meantime, the message is that if you yourself, or someone you know is in need of free, confidential, anonymous, wrap-around services and support, please pick up the phone and call the WLSQ Helpline on 1800 957 957.”

On behalf of her fellow Team Whitsundays Dancing CEOs, Kate Purdie (Coral Sea Marina), Julie Telford (SeaLink Whitsundays), Alice Harriott (Whitsunday Family Dental), and herself, Whitsunday Transit’s Candice Crossley extended a heartfelt “thank you” to the team at Whitsunday Escape and everyone who made Friday’s fundraiser a sellout success.

“It was thanks to the generosity of Mandy and Penny Coles and their team at The Garden Bar that so much of the ticket price could go directly to WLSQ, with additional support from Wilmar Sugar, Whitsunday Entertainment, Andrew Pattinson of Vampp Photography, Sophie Camm, and all the businesses who donated prizes for our raffles,” she said.

“We’re asking people to please follow our Team Whitsundays Dancing CEOs Facebook Page, which is where we’re sharing all our ‘Thank You’ tributes and also details of our upcoming events.”

Team Whitsundays is the first regional team to ever participate in the Dancing CEOs initiative, culminating in a dance contest at Brisbane City Hall on May 31, 2025.

To donate directly to their campaign, visit dancingceos.com.au.

‍

Team Whitsundays Dancing CEOs Julie Telford, Kate Purdie, Candice Crossley and Alice Harriott (centre) with Team PR Director Sharon Smallwood (left) and WLSQ Ambassador Katelyn Aslett-Collins (right). Photo credit: Andrew Pattinson / Vampp Photography

‍

The team at award-winning Airlie Beach boat and yacht hire service, Whitsunday Escape, is throwing support behind ‘Team Whitsundays Dancing CEOs’ fundraising initiatives by donating an epic charter experience to the cause.

General Manager, Jaclyn Watson, announced at the Cocktails for a Cause event that proceeds from the company’s annual charity raffle for a luxury five-night Whitsunday charter, will be donated to WLSQ through the Team Whitsundays Dancing CEOs campaign.

“This cause holds deep significance for our team, as domestic violence is an issue that casts a long shadow over all communities, affecting individuals, children, families and workplaces,” Ms Watson said.

“By purchasing a ticket to our raffle, you’re not only entering for a chance to win an unforgettable holiday, but you’re also helping to fund vital services that support and empower women and children across Queensland,” she said.

“Only 1000 tickets are available so this will sell out!”

Tickets cost $50 each, with the getaway aboard the stunning, brand-new Longreach 44 Power Catamaran, ‘Bella Luna’, valued at $13,750.

To purchase tickets, visit www.raffletix.com.au/whitsundayluxury2025.

The winner will be drawn and announced at the Team Whitsundays Dancing CEOs Charity Gala on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at the Shute Harbour Maritime Terminal.

‍

Katelyn Aslett-Collins, Julie Telford, Beth Sutherland, Jaclyn Watson, Kate Purdie, Alice Harriott and Candice Crossley launching the Whitsunday Escape luxury charter raffle for WLSQ. Photo by Andrew Pattinson, Vampp Photography

‍

Great things happen when women support women.

This was abundantly evident among the 125 Whitsunday women who stepped out in support of Women’s Legal Service Queensland (WLSQ) at The Garden Bar in Airlie Beach last Friday afternoon.

Together with a humbling array of local businesses providing services, donations and raffle prizes for the ‘Team Whitsundays Dancing CEOs’ event, this powerhouse collective raised a whopping $12,000-plus in just four short hours of fun, camaraderie and friendship.

WLSQ Ambassador and Team Whitsundays Mentor, Katelyn Aslett-Collins, said examples of generosity and kindness like this were among the reasons she was proud to have brought the organisation’s flagship fundraiser to the region, with high hopes of achieving outcomes specifically tailored to regional women.

“The work WLSQ does is about breaking the cycle of domestic violence in our communities and while we know this is a prevalent issue in regional and remote areas like ours, statistically fewer regional women are currently accessing their services,” Ms Aslett-Collins said.

“We need women here and in other remote areas of Queensland to know there is a statewide helpline where they can get free, legal advice, on a range of issues, including financial abuse, coercive control and child support matters – and ultimately for me, increasing access for regional women to WLSQ’s on-the-ground outreach services is also an end goal,” she said.

“In the meantime, the message is that if you yourself, or someone you know is in need of free, confidential, anonymous, wrap-around services and support, please pick up the phone and call the WLSQ Helpline on 1800 957 957.”

The team at award-winning Airlie Beach boat and yacht hire service, Whitsunday Escape, is backing this message, with General Manager, Jaclyn Watson, announcing at Friday’s event that proceeds from the company’s annual charity raffle for a luxury five-night Whitsunday charter, will be donated to WLSQ through the Team Whitsundays Dancing CEOs campaign.

“This cause holds deep significance for our team, as domestic violence is an issue that casts a long shadow over all communities, affecting individuals, children, families and workplaces,” Ms Watson said.

“By purchasing a ticket to our raffle, you’re not only entering for a chance to win an unforgettable holiday, but you’re also helping to fund vital services that support and empower women and children across Queensland,” she said.

“Only 1000 tickets are available so this will sell out!”

Tickets cost $50 each, with the getaway aboard the stunning, brand-new Longreach 44 Power Catamaran, ‘Bella Luna’, valued at $13,750.

To purchase tickets, visit www.raffletix.com.au/whitsundayluxury2025.

The winner will be drawn and announced at the Team Whitsundays Dancing CEOs Charity Gala on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at the Shute Harbour Maritime Terminal.  

On behalf of her fellow Team Whitsundays Dancing CEOs, Kate Purdie (Coral Sea Marina), Julie Telford (SeaLink Whitsundays), Alice Harriott (Whitsunday Family Dental), and herself, Whitsunday Transit’s Candice Crossley extended a heartfelt “thank you” to the team at Whitsunday Escape and everyone who made Friday’s fundraiser a sellout success.

“It was thanks to the generosity of Mandy and Penny Coles and their team at The Garden Bar that so much of the ticket price could go directly to WLSQ, with additional support from Wilmar Sugar, Whitsunday Entertainment, Andrew Pattinson of Vampp Photography, Sophie Camm, and all the businesses who donated prizes for our raffles,” she said.

“We’re asking people to please follow our Team Whitsundays Dancing CEOs Facebook Page, which is where we’re sharing all our ‘Thank You’ tributes and also details of our upcoming events.”

Team Whitsundays is the first regional team to ever participate in the Dancing CEOs initiative, culminating in a dance contest at Brisbane City Hall on May 31, 2025.

To donate directly to their campaign, visit https://www.dancingceos.com.au/kate-purdie-julie-telford-candice-crossley-dr-alice-harriott.

‍

125 Whitsunday Women stepped out for WLSQ at Christmas Cocktails for a Cause. Photo by Andrew Pattinson, Vampp Photography

‍

Hi Everyone,
It's crazy to think that this time six months ago I moved from Sydney to the Whitsundays to start my new life out here all on my own.
I remember how I felt at the time, and the day before I was leaving, worried about making new friends, sad about leaving the friends I had made in Sydney, and apprehensive about whether this regional area would be for me.
Despite the fear, deep down I was excited to see where this new path would lead.
Now, fast-forward six months from the nervous Ruth, who was unsure about the future, I have completely changed. Gained in confidence and grown as a person. I have made friends for life, developed skills in my journalism career, had experiences I never thought I would, alongside meeting so many inspiring people in the community.
My friends have played a huge role in making my experience in the Whitsundays so special. They've supported me through the highs and the lows and even accepted my love for watching endless shark documentaries (much to their dismay!).
I'm deeply grateful for them, and I know that if I had stayed in the place I was in Sydney, I would never have had the chance to meet such amazing people.
Here’s to many more months of growth, change, and new opportunities.
‍

Ruth
“When it feels scary to jump, that is exactly when you jump, otherwise you end up staying in the same place your whole life.” Abel Morales (A Most Violent Year 2014)

‍

One local resident who has been through serious trauma this year is a whole lot happier after receiving the news that Whitsunday Regional Council is organising her family to visit over Christmas.

Michelle Wardrope tragically lost her leg following a seemingly innocent fall on her driveway in April this year.

The mum of one received a gash to her leg when she slipped on her driveway and went to hospital where the wound was cleaned and stitched before she was sent home.

It was later that night that her leg began to throb, and excruciating pain ensued.

Her husband Ben raced her back to hospital, but her condition quickly deteriorated and she lapsed into a coma where she remained for 13 days.

Michelle had contracted a soil-borne bacterial infection from the run-off streaming down the hill directly above the property.

This caused the infection to spread rapidly up her leg and within 48 hours of the incident her leg had to be amputated.

For the past nine months Michelle has been adjusting to life with only one leg.

With limited government support, her husband has relinquished his business to be her full-time carer.

When Mayor Ry Collins discovered the family’s battle he pledged to help and collaborated with the Whitsunday Coast Airport team, Jetstar, Cruise Whitsundays and at Hotel Group to bring Michelle’s brother, sister-in-law and niece to the Whitsundays for a pre-Christmas reunion.  

“You inspire us all and we are so proud to have you here as part of our Whitsunday community,” said Mayor Collins.

‍

Michelle Wardrope is looking forward to seeing her brother and his family for Christmas. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

‍

Proserpine Youth Space marked an incredible 25 years of making a difference in the community with a spectacular celebration last Friday. The event was bursting with energy, featuring everything from trampoline fun and face painting to delicious sausage sizzles and cake.
Locals of all ages gathered to celebrate this milestone, reflecting on the Youth Space’s vital role in the community. Mayor Ry Collins highlighted how, beyond the fun, the space provides essential support for young people facing challenges like mental health struggles, domestic violence, and housing instability, offering them hope, resources, and a chance to thrive in a safe environment.

Celebrating in Superhero style: Councillor Clay Bauman, Cath McManus, Renee Buckley, Mayor Ry Collins, Christine Young (President), Bec Murton, Vanessa Hartle and Christopher Mason. Photo credit: Ruth Puddefoot

Proserpine Youth Space Celebrates 25 Years

‍

Proserpine Youth Space has been a cornerstone of the community, providing children with a safe and welcoming environment to relax, unwind, and connect.
Last week, Proserpine Youth Space celebrated an incredible 25 years of community impact with a fun-filled event.
The celebration featured sausage sizzles, delicious cake, trampolines, face painting, henna art, and much more, bringing together locals of all ages to mark this special milestone.
Mayor Ry Collins also attended the event and explained how important Youth Space is for the local community:
“The mission goes beyond fun and personal development.
“For many youths that are facing serious challenges in our community, such as mental health struggles, rising domestic violence rates, drug abuse and housing instability, the youth base provides critical support and guidance, connecting them with the resources that they need to thrive.”

‍

Councillor Clay Bauman, Cath McManus, Renee Buckley, Mayor Ry Collins, Christine Young (President), Bec Murton, Vanessa Hartle and Christopher Mason. Photo credit: Ruth Puddefoot

find more images at: https://www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/proserpine-youth-space-celebrates-in-superhero-style

A brand-new artisan distillery has opened in Airlie Beach to rave reviews, producing premium handcrafted gin and vodka with a distinctly Whitsundays twist.
74 Islands Distillery, nestled within the stunning Elementa Whitsundays venue in Airlie Beach, is distinguished by its unwavering commitment to exceptional quality and craftsmanship. What truly sets it apart is its dedication to the art of drinking well, elevating the experience with the use of reverse osmosis water and a showstopping copper still in the distillation process. These elements enhance the purity and flavour of every drop, ensuring that each sip is a moment to savour.
So luxurious are their spirits that some of the Whitsundays' most renowned establishments have selected them for their cocktails or keep them stocked behind the bar. Among these are Eastwoods, The Garden Bar, Sorrento, Mika, Whitsunday Sailing Club, Red Fish, and Northerlies, all of which showcase the distillery's premium offerings.
The distillery places a strong emphasis on sustainability, which has become one of its defining features. By harnessing the power of the Whitsundays sun to fuel both their solar panels and distillery operations, and using eco-friendly, recycled packaging, their commitment to preserving the beauty of the islands that inspired 74 Islands Distillery is at the heart of everything they do.
Anna Allbury, Creative Director at 74 Islands Distillery and Elementa Whitsundays, shared the inspiration behind the distillery’s ethos:
“The inspiration for 74 Islands Distillery and spirits is the natural beauty and purity of the seventy-four Whitsunday islands and the crystal-clear water that surrounds them.
“The islands themselves create a unique and unforgettable experience for all who head out to enjoy them, and we wanted to capture that spirit in our offerings, so we set out on a quest to develop the purest spirits possible with a connection to the flavours of our environment.
"At the moment we're using reverse osmosis water in our distillations, but our next run is going to incorporate Whitsundays rainwater, which excitingly after initial testing, we’ve discovered is incredibly pure.  We're also highlighting locally sourced botanicals in our infusions, for a unique taste of pure paradise.”
The distillery offers an exceptional range of stunning gins, from aromatic botanical blends and classic London Dry to their smooth, refined vodka, ensuring there's a flavour to satisfy every palate.
While 74 Islands Distillery have just launched their website for a seamless online shopping experience so that you can enjoy the gin in the comfort of your own home, you can also head down to their first ever exclusive cellar door sale on Thursday 12th and 19th December 3-7pm at Elementa Whitsundays, the home of 74 Islands Distillery, to grab a bottle (or two) just in time for the Christmas festivities to BeGIN.

What: 74 Islands Distillery Cellar Door Sale
When: Thursday 12th and 19th December 3-7pm
Where: Elementa Whitsundays, 24 Mount Whitsunday Drive, Airlie Beach
www.74islandsdistillery.com

‍

Road users are reminded to take care when navigating areas where road re-sealing is underway at various locations over the next four months.

The $7.8M road re-sealing project commenced this week at the Whitsunday Coast Airport Road and will continue to be rolled-put on specific roads across the region until March 2025.

Council urges motorists to take care, stay alert and be considerate to others:

“Please note, that as re-seals occur, line marking cannot be completed for approximately three weeks until bitumen or asphalt has properly cured. Please ensure you drive to conditions, particularly in wet weather,” said a Council issued statement.

“We will endeavour to minimise impacts on the community with works being completed in small sections, one lane remaining open at any one time and nightworks occurring on highly trafficked roads.

“Please exercise patience around road works and ensure the safety of our workers so they all make it home for Christmas.”

‍

Earlier this week a new Red Bench was unveiled by Mayor Ry Collins at Shingley Beach in Cannonvale, as part of the Red Rose Foundation LGAQ Walk Against Domestic Violence campaign.
It is one of four Red Benches that will be central places for reflection in the Whitsunday region.
Other locations are set to include Lions Park, Collinsville; Case Park in Bowen, and Ken McPherson Park, Proserpine.
Zonta Club of Whitsundays oversaw the installation of the Red Bench at Shingley Beach.
The local not-for-profit organisation donated the seating as part of the Red Bench Project, a program launched in 2019 by The Red Rose Foundation.
In his speech on the day Mayor Ry Collins reflected on the bench’s significance:
“These benches not only raise awareness but also serve as lasting reminders that we must continue to stand together to fight against domestic violence and support survivors. Together we can Change The Ending.”
“This initiative highlights our commitment to raising awareness and promoting action to end domestic and family violence.
“We are proud to contribute to this effort and to stand in solidarity with the Local Government Association of Queensland, which encourages councils to take part in activities such as the ‘walk against violence’.”
“Through unity, compassion and collective action, we can build a future where safety, respect and dignity are rights that belong to everyone.”

‍

The Zonta ladies with Mayor Ry Collins and Councillor Clay Bauman. Front row:  Nikki Firmin from DV Safe Phone, Dancing CEO Ambassador Katelyn Aslett-Collins, Dancing CEO Julie Telford and Councillor Jan Clifford at the bench’s unveiling.
‍

The Zonta ladies sitting on the brand new bench.

‍

A spate of vehicle crimes over the weekend has prompted some local residents to reach out on social media to warn others and raise awareness.

Technology has worked in the favour of one Mackay business owner who was able to track his stolen car to the Whitsundays and use the on-board GPS tracking device to help identify potential future locations where he suspects car thefts might occur.

“We have followed it from Mackay to the place where it is now located,” said the post which was published on Whitsundays Chat.

“The reason I have posted this is the people that have stolen it have been scoping out a lot of your homes. As you can see in a screen shot. The idle time means they are checking your homes out in this location.

“Yesterday morning our vehicle was stolen from Mackay and driven north to Strathdickie and burnt. This is a serious loss to our business. These vehicles are not easily replaced because we are waiting 6 to 12 months for new cars.

“I have also screen shot the speeds that they were driving. 152 in one place 120 through Proserpine 60 zone. I don’t have that in email but is on file.

“This is scary to be honest, we have more information that has been passed on to the Police.
Please lock up everyone and be safe.”

Two other vehicles crimes were published on social media over the weekend, one along Richardson Road in Sugarloaf and the second on Gregory Cannon Valley Road.

A third vehicle was reported stolen from Arundel Court in Cannonvale and believed to have also been burnt out.

If you have experienced a crime recently please report the incident to your local Police Station.

If you would like to raise awareness in the community and alert others please email ruth@lifepublishinggroup.com and we can share your experience in the newspaper.

‍

This work vehicle was stolen from Mackay and driven to Strathdickie where it was discovered burnt out. Photo supplied

A map of the area the car was tracked, the orange sections show where the vehicle paused and could have been staking out houses

‍

The completion of the Whitsunday Healthy Heart Project (WHHP) was celebrated at Mantra Club Croc, last week with dozens of local participating businesses in attendance to commend the success of the overall intiative.
The WHHP is a four-year program funded by the Great Barrier Reef Foundation and Whitsunday Regional Council as part of the Reef Islands Initiative Whitsundays Project, aiming to drive and facilitate greener, more sustainable business practices in the Whitsundays tourism sector, including the reduction of carbon emissions.
Between 2021-2024, around 50 participating tourism businesses have entered energy, fuel and waste data into an online carbon calculator which has quickly calculated a carbon footprint and listed decarbonisation and sustainability actions that businesses may implement.
A broad network of motivated tourism businesses has been identified and mobilised, and the collected emissions data has provided a deeper understanding of the Whitsunday tourism sector’s emissions data base.
Mayor Ry Collins said, “Well done to all involved, past and present, including project coordinator Lee Hawkins who has done a great job bringing the industry together on the initiative. Eco-tourism is an area of great future potential and it’s assuring to know we’re leading the way.”
A steering committee was established at the beginning of the project and included representatives from Reef Catchments, Whitsunday Charter Boats Industry Association, Whitsunday Conservation Council, Tourism Whitsundays, Ocean Rafting, BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort, Cruise Whitsundays and Whitsunday Regional Council.
The steering committee provided guidance and recommendations, offered advice on methods to improve the project’s engagement with the tourism sector, identified potential subject matter for project workshops and steered the development of decarbonisation activities and advocacy in the region.
Steering Committee member, Adrian Bram, commented, “The Whitsunday Charter Boat Industry joined the Healthy Heart Reef Partnership because it presented the opportunity for collaboration on ideas and actions that can contribute to reducing our carbon footprint.”
Additionally, the WHHP has introduced and aligned over 56% of participating businesses to the Business Chamber Queensland’s, ecoBiz program.
The ecoBiz program has provided additional support to businesses in sustainable operations and will ensure that the WHHP’s long-term legacy actions can continue.
“One of the most inspiring outcomes of Whitsunday Healthy Heart has been the creation of the network of businesses from across the tourism sector.
“More than 50 businesses, from across the region, have come together to work towards a shared goal: a healthier Reef.
“This incredible network reflects the commitment of our community to preserving the Reef, not just as a natural treasure but as an essential part of our lives and livelihoods. This collaboration is something Whitsunday Regional Council can be truly proud of,” commented Reef Catchment Chief Executive Officer, Katrina Dent.
The Great Barrier Reef Foundation’s Managing Director, Anna Marsden, said we’re already seeing the effects of climate change in many parts of our Reef and the time to act is now.
“We’re proud to be working towards a carbon neutral Reef industry in the Whitsundays as part of our Reef Islands Initiative, which is protecting the habitats of the thousands of species of marine life that call the Reef home,” Ms Marsden said.

‍

Steering Committee

‍

A huge thank you to everyone who attended the combined Tourism Whitsundays and Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce end-of-year networking event at the Airlie Beach Hotel. It was a great night with everyone enjoying the mixed company and relaxed format, and to support the silent auction with all proceeds going to Eco Barge Clean Seas.
The event reminded us that the silly season is upon us. Are you ready? No matter what business you’re in, now is the time to prepare for the next few months. Regular staff may be away – Is your staffing mix right? Do you have a plan for stock and deliveries? Are you prepared for extreme weather events, disaster, or disruption? Always worth a rethink and review.  
It is also a time of closing off the calendar year. A time to say thanks to your team, customers, and our local community for their support.
One way to support your local community is to shop local. Every dollar spent locally contributes to our local economy – to jobs and building a vital, sustainable community.
In 2025, the Chamber looks forward to continuing representing business community needs and ideas, evolving our membership services, and expanding our business education programs.
The Chamber has released its 2025 event dates which will include a Meet the Candidate event for the federal election, and our Whitsunday Business Conference on Thursday 28 August 2025.
The Chamber Board and Liaisons will be taking short break during the festive season from Monday 24 December to Sunday 6 January inclusive. The Chamber Board wishes all our members, supporters, and the broader Whitsunday business community a happy and safe festive season.

‍