Valentine’s day is approaching, which can be a reminder to romanticise the everyday, and recognise the beauty within your home. Try these simple steps to style your place this week, and boost those cozy, fuzzy feelings- just for you.

Start with lighting. Why not turn off those harsh overhead lights, and switch to softer alternatives? Lamps, candles or fairy lights can bring a relaxing mood to your space.

Next, buy yourself flowers- or simply head out into the garden, and bring the outdoors in. A bowl of fallen frangipani could be a sweet-smelling, delicate touch.

For decorating tips; think texture. This could be in the form of cushions and throws added to the couch, or a table cloth thrown over your table to bring a little whimsy to mealtimes. Check Op-shops for vintage and inexpensive pieces.
Now, for ambiance. Set a relaxing mood in the home with music, and turn off the TV now and then, to dial back and relax.
The simplest of all? Open the windows when you can. Make the most of that soft, Whitsunday ocean breeze, and let it refresh your mind, as well as your home.

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For those who don't know me, 'm Josey Comerford, Managing Director of Hugh Reilly Real Estate. I've been part of this business since 1988 and have spent over 37 years working across every aspect of real estate here in Mackay. Over that time, l've seen markets rise, settle and evolve - and one thing has always remained constant: property is deeply personal, and local knowledge truly matters.

As we move into February, the year is well and truly underway. The early momentum we often see in January tends to carry through, with buyers now more focused, organised and ready to act. Relocation decisions are being finalised, investors are watching the market closely, and many sellers are reassessing plans they've been considering for some time.

Looking back, 2025 was a strong year for property nationally and across Queensland, with solid price growth and steady demand - particularly in regional markets. Here in Mackay, we continue to see healthy enquiry levels, consistent sales activity and ongoing interest from both owner-occupiers and investors. That confidence has flowed into early 2026, creating positive conditions for well-presented and well-priced properties.

Of course, every property and every situation is different. What works for one owner may not suit another, and timing is always key. If you're curious about what the current market means for your home or investment — even if you're just thinking ahead — I'm always happy to have a conversation.

Sometimes, a simple chat is the best place to start.

Josey Comerford
Managing Director
Hugh Reilly Real Estate

Local experience.
Trusted advice.

Always happy to chat!

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Mackay’s vacancy rate is slightly above the tightest regional markets at 1.1%, while other centres such as Toowoomba (0.7%), Cairns (1.0%), Townsville (1.0%), Rockhampton (0.8%), and Bundaberg (1.0%) continue to face similarly constrained conditions.

Statewide, 33 of the 50 local government areas tracked by the REIQ recorded vacancy rates at or below 1.0%. Compared to the previous quarter, seven areas tightened further, 13 remained steady, and 30 saw slight easing. Despite a modest rise in vacant properties, supply is still far from meeting demand.

REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella said the tight conditions were unsurprising.

“We all need a roof over our heads whether we rent it or own it,” she said.

“However, Queensland’s rental population is higher than the national average at 36 per cent, highlighting the state’s heavy reliance on rental properties to house Queenslanders. These persistently low vacancy rates being experienced in many parts of the state show there is significant strain on our rental housing stock.”

Ms Mercorella said boosting home ownership is key to easing rental pressures.

“By helping more first home buyers transition from renting to owning a home, it lightens the load on the rental market by alleviating some of the demand-side pressure.”

Queensland’s construction pipeline also needs to keep pace with demand.

“To cater to Queensland’s portion of nationally agreed construction targets we need to be building around 49,000 new dwellings each year, but with 34,000 built over the 12 months to September last year, we’re falling behind,” Ms Mercorella said.

“Speeding up new housing supply is critical because the reality is there is a lot of catching up to do and there are still strong headwinds coming.

“With a huge pipeline of infrastructure projects and ongoing labour workforce shortages, we expect to see tradies and their families moving to Queensland – and many of them will be looking to rent.”

Southeast Queensland remains under pressure, with Greater Brisbane (1.0%), Brisbane LGA (1.2%), Ipswich (0.9%), Logan (0.9%), Moreton Bay (0.9%), and Redland (1.0%) all in tight territory, while the Sunshine Coast (0.7%) and Gold Coast (1.1%) continue to face high demand. Regional centres show similar strain, reflecting a statewide challenge for renters and policymakers alike.

The REIQ classifies rental markets as tight (0–2.5%), healthy (2.6–3.5%), or weak (3.6%+), with most of Queensland firmly in the tight category.

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Local sporting clubs across the Whitsundays received a boost on Tuesday with the delivery of new marquees, providing valuable support for events, competitions and community activities throughout the region.

The Whitsunday Sea Eagles AFL Club, Whitsunday Triathlon Club and Whitsunday Junior Rugby Union were thrilled to receive the new additions, which will help create welcoming spaces for athletes, volunteers and supporters alike.

Chairman of Club Whitsunday Justin Butler said he is extremely thankful to Amanda Camm MP for the donation of marquees and grants for local sport clubs.

“We'd like to thank Amanda for the not only the marquees, but for the Gambling Community Programme that our sports are always involved in and applying for, and winning and driving infrastructure for sport in a growing town,” he said.

“It’s a constant battle against the sun up here, it’s getting hotter and it has always been a constant battle.

“Between all the different sporting associations that use the Sportspark, we would have 30 marquees, and we need four to five new ones every single year. So, this is a great initiative.”

GAMES ON! Program Up And Running

Going into the 2026, the Whitsunday Sportspark and Club Whitsunday are ready for the busy season to start.

“It's all firing up. This is actually the first week where all of our winter codes are back on deck and training,” said Chairman of Club Whitsunday Justin Butler.

“It's back to the Sportspark being busy every night of the week, and it's only another month or so, and the weekend games start up.

“The Mackay sides will be coming up and our swords will be heading down there and that's a good thing for the town and the economy and the club and everything else.”

Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP said she encourages local sporting clubs across the Whitsundays to apply for a share of $30 million which is now available under Round 2 of the Queensland Government’s ‘Games On!’ program.

Ms Camm said the launch of Round 2 reinforces the State Government’s commitment to delivering a strong legacy from the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, with real benefits flowing to grassroots sport in regional communities like the Whitsundays.

“This is about making sure the Whitsundays sees real and lasting benefits from the Games,” Ms Camm said.

“Games On! funding will help local clubs upgrade facilities, improve accessibility, and support greater participation in sport right across our region.”

Ms Camm said local clubs were encouraged to come forward with shovel-ready projects.

“Our sporting clubs are at the heart of Whitsunday communities,” she said.

“This funding is an opportunity to strengthen facilities, support volunteers, and ensure locals of all ages can get involved in sport close to home.”

Sports clubs in the Whitsundays are happy with their new marquees. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

Whitsunday Junior Rugby Union happy with their program funding. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Hello everyone,

I write today with some sad news. This will be my last edition writing for Whitsunday Life as I venture back to Adelaide to dive into a new role and to be closer to family and friends.

The Whitsundays has been my home for almost two years, and I am deeply grateful for the experience. It’s a beautiful part of the world and there’s nowhere better I could have begun my professional career.

I would like to begin by thanking my incredible colleagues. Chelsea, Hannah, Jacob, Victoria and Sebastian have been not only outstanding journalists, but genuinely wonderful people to work alongside. A special thank you also to Ruth, who recently moved on but absolutely deserves recognition. It was a privilege to work with her, we challenged and encouraged one another to continually grow and improve. Thank you to the extended staff at Life Publishing Group, Trish, Trisha, Georgia, Lara, Taylor, Tania, Sherie, Jack and Marc. Thank you to Bec and Douth for building the business and finally a big thank you to Rachael for being my mentor and trusting me to develop my skills and produce this paper every week.

During my almost two years with the company, I have been up the coast to launch Hinchinbrook Life, embraced the Whitsunday community and told countless stories.

Finally thank you to the Whitsunday community and business community for their ongoing support. From community groups and volunteers to small businesses, industry leaders, sports groups and clubs, tourism operators, council and government your stories have shaped the pages of this paper and thank you for your support and generosity. Sharing your stories has been a privilege, and I am deeply grateful for the trust you placed in me during my time.

For now, it’s goodbye but I leave you in the capable hands of our new Whitsunday journalist Sebastian Conidi.

Thank you Whitsundays for the unforgettable experience.

Daniel

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Eco Barge extends its sincere thanks to Eastwoods Dining & Bar for their generous support of local volunteers who assisted with the coastline clean-up following ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji.
On Sunday, 25 January, Eastwoods Dining & Bar hosted Eco Barge volunteers and staff for a special thank-you dinner, recognising the considerable effort, time and commitment shown by volunteers in the aftermath of the cyclone. The evening provided a welcome opportunity for those involved to pause, reconnect and acknowledge the difference their work has made to the local environment.
Moved by the dedication shown throughout the clean-up effort, Eastwoods offered the Eco Barge community a shared dining experience as a genuine gesture of appreciation. Guests enjoyed a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, good food and thoughtful hospitality, creating a space for conversation and reflection.
Throughout the evening, volunteers shared stories from the clean-up, reflected on the challenges faced and celebrated what had been achieved together. The gathering highlighted the strong sense of community that emerges when local businesses and volunteers work side by side to care for the coastline.
Eco Barge sincerely thanks Eastwoods Dining & Bar for their generosity and support, and acknowledges every volunteer who contributed their time and energy to helping restore and protect the local coastline.

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Creative Connections Whitsundays (CCW) is proud to announce that the 2025 Proserpine Rock Wallaby Festival has been awarded ‘Best Community Event’ at the 2026 Whitsunday Regional Council Australia Day Awards.
The much-loved festival delighted the community with a vibrant four-day program celebrating creativity while raising awareness of the endangered Proserpine Rock Wallaby. More than 1,200 visitors attended, enjoying 90 artworks, a giant Rock Wallaby lantern, a Raku sculpture, and 20 hand-painted treasure hunt statues displayed throughout the town.
A highlight was the sold-out Mother’s Day Morning Tea, which featured a special visit from baby wallaby “Sissy,” with proceeds supporting Fauna Rescue.
CCW President Glenda Brown said the award recognised the power of community-led creativity.
“The Rock Wallaby Festival is a perfect example of how Creative Connections Whitsundays incubates new and original community arts initiatives. It’s incredibly rewarding to see an idea take root, engage the community, and be recognised for its impact.”
Another standout feature was the Proserpine Rock Wallaby Treasure Hunt, a vision brought to life by CCW Vice President Linda Forrester. She imagined families exploring the town with clue sheets in hand, discovering hidden wallabies and sharing laughs along the way.
Linda sculpted the first clay wallaby, Galea’s Concrete Products created the moulds, and local artists painted each piece. Today, the concrete wallabies can be found in shops, workplaces and even on awnings, becoming symbols of creativity, collaboration and Proserpine’s quirky charm.
The treasure hunt remains open to the public. Families can email prwf2025@gmail.com to receive clues, locate the painted wallabies around Proserpine and scan QR codes to learn about the artists.
Looking ahead, CCW will continue its focus on the new Proserpine Gallery and supporting local creatives through events and exhibitions. The future of the festival now rests with the newly incorporated Proserpine Rock Wallaby Festival Committee, led by last year’s Patron, Leigh Skead, who accepted the award on behalf of CCW.
For updates, visit the Proserpine Rock Wallaby Festival Facebook page.

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Residents, visitors and water users near the Whitsundays are being urged to exercise caution after high levels of potentially harmful blue-green algae were detected at Peter Faust Dam, prompting a Red Alert.

Routine monitoring confirmed the elevated algae levels on Friday, 30 January, with authorities warning the bloom may pose serious health risks to humans, pets, livestock and wildlife.

Peter Faust Dam, located inland from Proserpine and a key water source for the Whitsundays region, is a popular area for recreation and fishing, making the alert particularly significant for locals and tourists alike.

Blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, can produce toxins that may cause skin irritation, stomach illness, respiratory symptoms and other health effects if people or animals come into contact with contaminated water.

During the Red Alert period, authorities are advising the public to avoid all direct contact with the dam’s water, including swimming, boating and other recreational activities. Drinking untreated water from the dam is strongly discouraged, and people are urged to stay clear of visible surface scums, particularly in windy conditions when algae particles may become airborne.

Pet owners and landholders are also being warned to keep animals away from affected areas, while the consumption of mussels, redclaw and fish from the dam should be avoided. If fish are consumed, they should be thoroughly cleaned with clean water and have all internal organs removed before cooking.

Sunwater has confirmed the alert will remain in place until ongoing monitoring shows algae levels have reduced to safe limits. Signage has been updated at the storage, and regular testing will continue.

Anyone who believes they may have been affected by blue-green algae is encouraged to seek medical advice. For the latest updates, residents can visit Sunwater’s blue-green algae monitoring page.

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Residents are advised to monitor the situation via Sunwater’s blue-green algae monitoring page. Photo source: Sunwater

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Creative Connections Whitsunday (CCW) is transforming the former Visitor Information Centre into a vibrant gallery, workshop space, and creative hub for the entire Whitsunday region. It will be a welcoming home for artists, makers, and the wider community.

On Tuesday 3 February the Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins officially handed over the keys of the building to CCW in a big step for the Whitsunday art community.

Located on Main Street, Proserpine, the Community Gallery will activate a prominent building, strengthen the town’s cultural identity, and create a compelling reason to stop, stay, and connect.

Following the completion of make-safe works by Council, the key handover grants CCW formal access to the former Visitor Information Centre. This is the next step in transforming the building into a vibrant gallery, workshop space, and creative hub for the region.

CCW Vice President and Gallery Coordinator, Linda Forrester, said the handover marks the transition from planning to action.

“Receiving the keys is an exciting and symbolic moment for Creative Connections Whitsunday,” Linda said.

“It means we can now move forward and begin the real work of shaping this space into a welcoming, high-quality gallery and creative hub for the Whitsundays. While there is still fit out and fundraising ahead, this is a critical step forward.”

While the gallery is not yet ready for public opening, CCW is calling for sponsorship, in-kind trade support, and community involvement to help complete renovations and fit-out works.

“We are creating the only dedicated community art gallery in the Whitsunday region — a cultural home that reflects the creativity and spirit of our community.” Ms Forrester said. 

“This is a chance for local businesses, trades, and supporters to be part of something lasting. We’re inviting the community to help create a cultural home that reflects the creativity and spirit of the Whitsundays.”

CCW are extremely grateful to the Whitsunday Regional Council for making the building available for a gallery, and for their consistent, continued support.

“We’re also very appreciative of the make-safe works that have already been completed — they’ve genuinely changed the feel of the space and made it look so much neater and more welcoming,” said Julia Evans Strategic Advisor to the CCW committee.

“Although the gallery is located here in Proserpine, it’s important to say clearly that this is a gallery for the entire Whitsundays region. It will be the only community gallery in the Proserpine and Airlie Beach area, making it a significant cultural home for our region.

“Having a permanent space like this means we can build on that work, offer creative activities all year round, and more consistently showcase local stories, culture, and talent through the arts.”

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The Whitsunday Regional Council officially handed over the keys to the old Visitor Information Centre in Proserpine to Creative Connections Whitsunday on Tuesday. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Alinta Energy is continuing to listen closely to the Whitsunday community as the proposed Mt Challenger Wind Farm moves through its early feasibility phase.

We know there is strong interest – and concern – about what the project could mean for local homes, landscapes, wildlife and day-to-day life. We appreciate everyone who has taken the time to share their views. Your feedback is shaping the work we are doing now.

Where things are at

No decisions have been made about the project design or where specific infrastructure would go. Over the coming months, independent specialists will carry out detailed studies covering ecology, cultural heritage, noise, visual impact, traffic, safety and fire risk.

Both full reports and easy-to-read summaries will be released from mid-2026 so the community can see exactly what we have learned.

What we’ve heard
 
Residents have told us they want clear information and transparency, and have asked about potential impacts on homes, local amenity, wildlife and safety. All of these issues are being addressed in our upcoming studies.

Local benefits being explored
If the project proceeds, as well as supporting QLD’s energy supply and grid, it could bring meaningful investment into the region – including construction and operations jobs, local procurement, potential road and infrastructure upgrades, environmental enhancement programs and support for community initiatives.

We have started a process that could result in the development of a community benefit agreement that could support local clubs, facilities, restoration projects, training and apprenticeships. Any benefits would be grounded in local priorities and developed in consultation with Council, Traditional Owners and community groups.

Come and speak with us
We’ll be back at the Proserpine Community Centre on 18 and 19 February to outline feasibility work, answer questions from the community, and meet with neighbours, local businesses and organisations.

Updated session times will also be posted on the project website and promoted online.

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Whitsunday Regional Council has adopted the Galbraith Park Master Plan, providing a long-term vision for a greener, more connected parkland experience in the heart of Cannonvale.
The Master Plan was adopted at the same Council meeting as the Airlie Beach Precinct Master Plan, reinforcing Council’s commitment to coordinated planning across key community and visitor precincts.
Mayor Ry Collins said the Galbraith Park Master Plan focuses on creating a park that feels natural, welcoming and connected to the Whitsundays’ landscape and lifestyle.
“Galbraith Park is well placed to become a key everyday space for Cannonvale, supporting walking, gathering, play and connection as the area continues to grow,” Mayor Collins said.
“This Master Plan sets out how the park can evolve over time into a cooler, greener place that reflects our subtropical environment and strengthens the community’s connection to nature.”
The Master Plan also provides a broader planning framework for key community infrastructure within the park footprint, including the future Cannonvale Community Hub, ensuring development is integrated with surrounding green space and pathways.
The plan outlines a clear framework for future improvements, including intuitive wayfinding, expanded shaded areas and enhanced biodiversity. Planting will reflect subtropical rainforest and native Australian woodland landscapes, creating cooler microclimates and encouraging people to linger.
Mayor Collins said the Master Plan is a long-term guide, not a construction timetable.
“This plan sets a clear long-term direction for how Galbraith Park can grow and improve over time, as funding opportunities and partnerships come together,” he said.
The Galbraith Park Master Plan will now guide future planning, design and investment decisions for the site.
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Photo source: Whitsunday Regional Council

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When was the last time you checked in on your home loan?
At Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine, we’ve streamlined the process by offering our free Home Loan Health Check service to anyone, even if they don’t bank with us. Here’s what’s involved and how you can benefit.

What’s involved in a home loan health check?
The process starts with a review of your current interest rate, loan structure, home value, repayment options and remaining loan term. We’ll also ask you about your goals and aspirations and any short or long-term plans you have for your lifestyle. We'll then explore options available to you.  Every borrower has different needs, so a loan suitable for one person won't always suit another. 

Why do I need it?
Keeping the same home loan for a long time can mean missing out on more favourable loan options and interest rates. Plus, as your circumstances change, you may benefit from new features, repayments, or interest rates, better aligning your home loan to your life plans. You may even unlock equity in your home to finance a renovation, dream trip, or purchase another property. 

Get a lower interest rate
Lower loan-to-value ratios (LVR) can sometimes secure a lower interest rate. When a home loan has been in place for a while, the LVR may have improved due to increased property value and decreased outstanding loan balance.

Access more suitable features
Older home loan products may lack features suiting your current financial situation.  For example, an offset account can substantially reduce interest charges.

How often should you review your home loan?
Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine recommends checking your home loan annually.  Other signs it’s time for a review include:
   • Your interest rate is higher than advertised rates for new customers (or you don’t know your rate!).
   • You lack features like an offset account.
   • Your circumstances have changed (e.g., income changes or life goals).
   • Your fixed rate has ended (or is ending soon).
   • You were previously on a special offer ‘honeymoon’ rate that has reverted to a higher rate.
   • Your home value has increased.

Realise your goals sooner with a home loan health check
Neglecting to review your home loan regularly can mean missing out on big opportunities, like accessing equity in your property or making significant savings on your interest repayments. If you have goals, a free home loan health check with Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine could unlock opportunities and get you there faster.

Make a time to see the Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine Branch Manager Amanda and the team.
Located: Whitsunday Plaza Cannonvale
Call (07) 4948 3599
Email cannonvale&proserpinemailbox@bendigoadelaide.com.au

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After 18 years as a professional makeup artist, Lauriely Taylor believes most women do not need more products. They need clearer education. Makeup, she says, should feel achievable and confidence-building, not overwhelming.

“Many women tell me they feel stuck in the same routine or unsure what actually suits them, especially as their skin and style change over time,” Lauriely said. “That’s what inspired me to move beyond traditional makeup services and focus more on education.”

Over the years, Lauriely has taught thousands of women through one-on-one lessons, wedding mornings, group workshops and corporate events. She says the biggest transformations always come from understanding the reason behind techniques, allowing confidence to follow naturally.

To make that education more accessible, Lauriely recently launched an online makeup course designed for everyday women seeking practical, repeatable skills. The course focuses on modern, natural makeup that enhances rather than hides and can be completed at any pace. Lessons can be rewatched as needed, making it ideal for busy women wanting guidance without pressure or trends.

In addition to the course, Lauriely Taylor Makeup also offers Signature Corporate and Retreat Makeup Workshops, which have grown rapidly in popularity. Designed for small businesses, corporate teams and retreat hosts, the sessions provide practical techniques participants can use day to day, from creating a polished work look to refreshing makeup for the evening. The workshops also encourage connection and team engagement, making them a valuable addition to corporate or retreat experiences. The online course continues to evolve, with regular updates provided to clients at no extra cost.

“Whether I’m teaching online or in person, my goal is the same, to help women feel confident and capable through real-world makeup education,” Lauriely said. “Makeup does not need to be complicated. It just needs to make sense for real life.”

Lauriely will host two small-group workshops in February on Wednesday, 18 February from 11am to 1pm and Saturday, 21 February from 3pm to 5pm, with refreshments, champagne and luxury prizes included.

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The heart of Airlie Beach, Coral Sea Marina has evolved into one of Australia’s premier boating and lifestyle destinations – a thriving hub that connects locals, visitors, and the world’s marine community with the magic of the Whitsundays.
 
The marina offers a comprehensive range of services, including long- and short-term berthing, superyacht facilities, on-shore tenancies for retail, dining, and tourism operators, and essential amenities such as fuel, gas, ice, and parking. But beyond the facilities, Coral Sea Marina stands out for something less tangible – a commitment to quality, service, and community.
 
The current owner purchased the marina in 2013 when it was in receivership and in a state of disrepair. From the outset, the vision was ambitious: to transform the site into a world-class destination marina that reflects the natural beauty and prestige of the Whitsundays and the Great Barrier Reef. More than a decade later, that vision is clearly realised. Coral Sea Marina has become a benchmark for excellence, recognised for its service standards, sustainability practices, and contribution to the region’s tourism and marine industries.
 
Since COVID-19, the demand for marina berthing across Queensland has surged, with boat ownership reaching new highs. While the initial boom has steadied, the market remains strong, particularly for long-term berthing driven by new residents relocating to the region, and for seasonal berthing during the winter months.  
 
According to the marina team, the key to their ongoing success lies in offering much more than a place to berth a boat. “Our guests aren’t just docking; they’re becoming part of a community,” General Manager Kate Purdie said. “From our friendly team and premium shoreside facilities to events and social activities, we aim to create experiences that build loyalty and connection.”
  
As proud members of the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Coral Sea Marina recognises the importance of collaboration and advocacy in strengthening the regional economy. “The Chamber has gone from strength to strength,” Kate said. “It’s encouraging to be part of an organisation focused on strategy, cooperation, and positive change for the Whitsundays.”  

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce & Industry.
 

Coral Sea Marina CEO Kate Preston

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You may be eligible for a rates concession on your Whitsunday Regional Council rates. If you own and live in your property as your principal place of residence, and it is used for single residential purposes, you could qualify for a lower general rate category.

Applications for the concession must be made by the discount date listed on your upcoming rates notice. In addition, eligible pensioners may now also apply for a pensioner remission on their rates for the second half of the 2025/2026 year.

Pensioners who are already in receipt of the concession and whose situation has not altered need not reapply.  For more information, head to Council’s website.

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