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

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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.”

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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.”

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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.
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The Zonta ladies sitting on the brand new bench.

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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.

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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

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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.

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Steering Committee

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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.

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In the 2023/24 financial year, Whitsunday Regional Council hosted 28 events across the region, attracting approximately 8,127 attendees. These events brought the community together, providing opportunities for connection, entertainment and engagement throughout the Whitsundays. From cultural festivals and community celebrations to educational workshops and family-friendly activities, these events aim to enrich the community spirit and add vibrancy to life in the region.

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It was a privilege to be at Shingley Beach in Cannonvale on Tuesday to officially unveil one of four Red Benches in the Whitsunday region as part of the Red Rose Foundation – LGAQ Walk Against Domestic Violence campaign.
 
Council is installing four red benches across our region—in Airlie Beach, Cannonvale, Proserpine, and Collinsville—as a visible commitment to ending domestic violence. These benches will be placed at Lions Park, Collinsville; Case Park in Bowen, Shingley Beach, Cannonvale and Ken McPherson Park, Proserpine.
 
A massive shout out to Whitsunday Zonta for their dedication to supporting victims and survivors of domestic and family violence within our Whitsunday region.
 
Their tireless efforts have brought hope and courage to those in need, emphasising the vital role that community groups play in creating a safer and more compassionate environment.
 
Each Red Bench will include a plaque engraved with a powerful message: “Change the ending – Let’s Stop Domestic Violence,” accompanied by the logos of Council, Red Rose Foundation and Zonta Club of the Whitsundays.
 
These benches are a powerful symbol of hope, remembrance, and resilience and Tuesday’s unveiling brought people together to recognise an issue that affects every community, and these benches serve as a public reminder of lives tragically lost and our collective commitment to ending this devastating issue.
 
Tuesday’s unveiling of the Shingley Beach Red Bench aligned with the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, an international campaign that ran from November 25 to December 10.
 
This initiative underscored the community's commitment to raising awareness and fostering action with activities such as the ‘Walk Against Violence’.
 
The benches are intended to be more than a symbol, they represent a space for reflection and a reminder of the shared responsibility to create change. Through unity, compassion, and collective action we can build a future where safety, respect, and dignity are universal rights.
 
Congratulations Whitsunday Zonta, the Red Rose Foundation, and everyone who contributed to this initiative. Your efforts continue to inspire us all to work toward a brighter, safer future.

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Alita DeBrincat was recently celebrated as the Queensland Touch Administrator of the Year at the 2024 Queensland Touch Football Awards which was held in the Gold Coast on Monday 2 December.
Alita has held the position of President of the Whitsunday Touch Association for the past three years and was recognised as Touch Football Australia’s Volunteer of the Month in June for her continued commitment to the club.
“It takes every single member in our club to make it great, and we’re so lucky to have an awesome committee that’s passionate about what we do,” shared Alita.
“At Whitsunday Touch, it’s really simple – it’s about footy for fun, for everyone.”
Alita’s dedication and contributions to the Whitsunday Touch Association’s overall success within the community cannot be understated.
“Our goal is to make our carnival, the Whitsunday Cup, a must-do event for every touch football affiliate in Australia and we’re so lucky to have a great community here in the Whitsundays,” added Alita.
“It’s the perfect sport for kids, mum, dads, the whole family as it’s safe, non-contact, and there’s no training or travel required – even if you’ve never played before, we’ll show you the ropes – just come and give it a go!”
Alita has been part of the touch football community since she was fourteen years old, and she continues to draw inspiration from fellow Whitsunday Touch Association members to cultivate a welcoming environment.

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Alita DeBrincat was awarded Queensland Touch Administrator of the Year at the 2024 Queensland Touch Football Awards. Photo supplied

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As summer heats up in the Whitsunday region, so do your cars.
Leaving children or pets in the car, even for a quick errand, may seem harmless, but it can have serious, potentially life-threatening consequences.
Recently, Whitsunday community members have raised concerns on social media after spotting individuals leaving children or animals unattended in vehicles locally.
One Facebook post on the Whitsunday Chat group captured the growing frustration:
“Nothing is so urgent that you need to pay bills, buy food, or do chores to put your kids and pets at risk of heat exhaustion, dehydration, and even death.”
The Raising Children Network strongly advises against leaving a child in a car under any circumstances:
“Never leave your child unattended in the car, even for a moment. If you need to leave your car, always take your child with you.
Heat is the main risk for children left in vehicles.
Children can suffer from life-threatening heatstroke, rapid dehydration, suffocation, and even death.
Similarly, while it’s not yet illegal to leave dogs in cars, the risks are equally alarming. As temperatures inside vehicles rise, dogs can quickly become dehydrated, experience blood thickening, and suffer brain damage, organ failure, or even death.
Heatstroke can take hold in as little as six minutes, making it vital for pet owners to never leave animals in cars, even for short periods.
Leaving children or pets unattended in a car, regardless of the situation, is never worth the risk.

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This Christmas, Pets Domain Bowen is partnering with Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc. to bring some extra holiday cheer to rescue animals in need.
Pets Domain Bowen invites the community to visit the store and explore the stories and photos of the incredible rescue pets currently available for adoption.
To participate in the Secret Santa initiative, simply choose a name from the board. Then, purchase a toy, treat, or other special goodies for that furry friend! Gifts will be wrapped and placed under the tree for a festive delivery.
On December 14th, during their next Market Stall Day, the rescue cats and dogs will be in-store to receive their presents.
Every pet deserves a Christmas gift, but rescue animals especially deserve some extra love after all they’ve been through. If your chosen pet's name is drawn, don't worry it will be returned to the board for others to have a chance to spoil them too!
Let’s make this holiday season unforgettable for these amazing fur babies. Visit Pets Domain Bowen and help spread some Christmas joy!

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The Proserpine Museum’s journey began with a small but passionate group of local history enthusiasts who stored their growing collection of artifacts in private homes around Proserpine.
Over time, this collection found a permanent home in the museum’s original building, where it continues to be housed to this day. The museum officially opened its doors to the public in 2001, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Mayor Demartini, who unveiled a commemorative plaque. This event marked the beginning of an enduring cultural hub, offering the community a dedicated space to explore and celebrate the rich history of Proserpine and its surrounding areas.
The story of the museum’s creation dates back even further, to 1963, when a group of local residents gathered in the Proserpine Council chambers. With a shared interest in preserving the town’s history, they began researching and collecting historical photographs, writings, and objects of significance. This group’s dedication laid the foundation for what would eventually become the Proserpine Museum.
To this day, many of the original volunteers remain active in supporting the museum’s mission. Currently, between four and six volunteers work diligently five days a week, ensuring that the museum remains a vibrant resource for the local community.
These dedicated individuals help maintain the museum’s exhibits, curate new artifacts, and ensure the space remains welcoming to all who visit. Their tireless efforts ensure that the community has ongoing access to the local history that is so important to preserving the town’s cultural identity.
In addition to their work with artifacts, the volunteers have made significant contributions to the museum’s aesthetic. Several stunning murals, which now grace the walls of the museum, were created by these volunteers, adding a vibrant and unique visual element that enhances the visitor experience.
These murals, which depict scenes from Proserpine’s past, serve as both artistic expressions and historical representations, further deepening the connection between the museum and the community it serves.
The volunteers also meet regularly at the museum to discuss plans for future exhibitions, events, and projects. These meetings are an essential part of ensuring the museum continues to grow and evolve in line with the community’s needs and interests.
Looking ahead, the museum has exciting plans for expansion. There is a strong desire to increase the available space, allowing for the display of more artifacts and the inclusion of new collections that reflect the ever-expanding history of Proserpine.
The Proserpine Museum’s growth, driven by the dedication of its volunteers and the support of the local community, promises to make it an even more vital resource for those eager to explore the town’s fascinating history.
While Proserpine Museum runs effectively due to its volunteers, the museum is always looking for new members of the community to join the team and ensure its presence for years to come, if you are interested in joining the dedicated volunteers at the Proserpine Museum get in touch here: (07) 4945 3969

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The dedicated Proserpine Museum Volunteers

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The Bowen Tourism and Business staff and volunteers got into the festive spirit last week when they went to the Big Seafood Bash at Bird’s Fish Bar in Bowen.

It has been a big year for the team as they welcomed a record number of visitors in 2024.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said the 17 volunteers were an integral part of the organisation.

“They greet every visitor with a smile and are passionate, friendly, and knowledgeable,” she said.

“We are looking forward to a very busy couple of weeks as the Christmas and New Year period is always busy at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre next to the Big Mango.”

“We now offer a Driver Reviver Service which is expected to be popular between Christmas and New Year.”

The centre will be closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day but open every other day over the holidays.

If you are driving along the Bruce Highway, call in and say hello to the team – and grab a delicious mango sorbet while you are there.

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Bowen Tourism and Business staff – Kate Mackie, Trudy Starkey, Glenn Womal, Leanne Abernethy, Cindy Tonks and Melissa Beuzeville
 
Bowen Tourism and Business volunteers celebrating Christmas at Birds Fish Bar. Back: Janice Germain, Pam Skinner, Steve Fisher, Viv and Kev Clark. Front: Mark and Anne Steen, Colleen Skinner. Photos supplied

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Messi is a sweet, shy little girl who may take some time to warm up and feel comfortable in her new surroundings, but once she does, she becomes an incredibly affectionate companion. At 5 years old, she’s past the kitten stage, but still full of charm and personality.
She loves nothing more than cosying up for cuddles on the couch. Her tiny meows are her way of asking for attention, and she’ll often curl up beside you for a nap. Messi has a special way of showing her affection, whether it’s with a gentle headbutt or reaching out her paw to guide your hand to her head for a pat.
This little ball of sweetness will quickly have you wrapped around her adorable little toe beans!
To adopt the adorable Messi, please contact Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue via:
Mobile: 0459 757 455
Or send a message through their Facebook page.
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Sex: Female
Age: 5yrs
Adoption fee: $170

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From the beginning of the first settlement, Proserpine had the convenience of several hotels; houses of hospitality where weary travellers of the early 20th century could find refreshments and rest. One of these establishments is the recently reopened Palace Hotel which has seen many changes in its appearance and ownership in its 126 year history.  
In 1898, the prospects for the town were looking good. A new hotel, the Palace Hotel, was being built by Mr August Schumaker. It was the first two-storey building in Proserpine and began as an accommodation house. A billiard and publican's licence was granted to Schumaker in September 1898.
It appears that Mr. Schumaker had the hotel until 1902 when he sold to Mr and Mrs O'Toole, as it was in June of that year that visitors from Charters Towers spoke favourably of their stay “at O'Toole's Hotel”.
The Palace Hotel catered for travelling salesman. In 1902, “Port Denison Times” reported that several representatives from commercial firms had set up their samples at the Palace Hotel in Proserpine.
Advertisements for Harry Deicke's Palace Hotel began in 1903 when he took out the lease which he operated until he bought the hotel from Mrs Agnes O'Toole early in 1907. He immediately carried out additions to the building, followed by an extensive painting project and later rebuilt the hotel. (Mr H. F. Deicke was owner of the Palace until his death in 1951 when it was sold to a subsidiary of Michelmore’s Mackay).  
Well known pioneer, Mr A. J. Setter, was the next licensee (1908 – 1911), followed by Miss Keating who stated that her intentions were "to cater for the conveniences of residents and travellers - making a special feature of the wants of the inner man." She began with a feminine touch by installing French Lights to open the bedrooms up onto the balconies. She was still at the Palace in 1915, but there is a gap in our history until 1919 when it shows Mrs E. M. Jensen as lessee. ln April 1920, she disposed of the lease and goodwill to Mr Smythe of Rockhampton. By 1923, Annie Casey was lessee followed in 1928 by Mrs C. E. Henderson who purchased it possibly from Mr I. C. Edwards. Records from 1928 to 1937 are non-existent.
Mrs Olive Jones took over the lease in 1937. Affectionately known as ‘Mum’, she stayed on at the Palace for almost 27 years. She had a well-earned reputation for running one of the best and most popular hotels on the Queensland coast; a home away from home for travelling businessmen who used the rooms to display their wares to businesses. From at least the 1930s, optometrists and spectacle makers like Stacey & Stacey, visited regularly, bringing their services to town. As a closing gesture, ‘Mum’ Jones served free drinks on her last evening - New Year's Eve, 1963.
In 1964, the new lessee was Mr Kevin Bowden. In 1977, the hotel was bought by Mr Jim Bowman. Mrs Sylvia Newman (with George and Mavis Telford) had run the hotel from 1973 – 1977.
The Palace was purchased by Tom Faust of Fausts Pty Ltd in 1995. The dining area was modernised and other improvements undertaken before selling to Tony and Carmel Price, Carmel Faust and Richard Otene in 1997. In 2000, Mrs Faust sold her share. The remaining group added the TAB before selling to Paul McEnroe and Co in 2004.
Sold to Thomas and Audrey Dunne in 2006, the Palace was remodelled and renamed O’Duinns Irish Pub, operating as such until damaged during cyclone Debbie and sadly, removed from the local heritage register.  
Local businessman, Rick Shelley, purchased the iconic hotel in December 2022. After completing substantial renovations, the Palace Hotel was reopened in November 2024, to the delight of locals.
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Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum

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The Palace Hotel in 1898

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