Hi Everyone,

School holidays have been an absolute joy in our household! We’ve had both Grandmothers staying, and between them, they’ve orchestrated a series of fun-filled, action-packed days for the three children. The Grandmothers are not only kind and thoughtful carers to our boisterous kids—they’re also excellent role models, each with a strong moral compass.

The children have spent the week working on a play they’ve written and directed themselves, ready to perform on Friday night. There’s been limited screen time and plenty of outdoor adventures, which has done wonders.

Earlier this week, they were racing along the pathway on their scooters towards the Cannonvale Skatepark when they spotted what appeared to be a homeless man. Within seconds, all three were busily discussing what he might need and how they could help. With the Grandmothers in tow, they headed to the nearby dollar store and bought a pillow, a blanket and, from the bakery, a sausage roll.

Nervously, they approached the man to offer their gifts. Fortunately, he beamed a smile of encouragement, and they were soon chatting comfortably—with the Grandmothers close by, of course. He shared his story about travelling on a quest in honour of his recently deceased stepfather. The children were captivated, and the ‘homeless’ man graciously accepted their offerings.

That evening, each child animatedly retold the story—proud and alive with the experience, which had clearly taught them something deeply personal.

For me, it was a reminder that reduced screen time and real-life encounters are powerful tools for growing the soul.

Our region is postcard-perfect, no doubt—but it’s the unexpected moments of kindness, curiosity, and connection that truly make a holiday unforgettable. These are the stories our children will carry with them long after the sun sets on another beautiful Whitsunday winter's day.

Rach

Quote of the Week: "Children are not a distraction from more important work. They are the most important work" (C.S. Lewis)

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The Proserpine Hospital maternity team recently received a significant boost thanks to the generosity of a local business, the Palace Hotel in Proserpine.

Last month, the hotel presented the hospital with a substantial donation of $1,834, the impressive sum raised during a special Mother’s Day fundraiser held in May. This heartwarming initiative underscores the strong community spirit in the Whitsundays region.

Acting maternity unit manager Nickey Pilgrim expressed immense gratitude for the contribution. "The midwives and the hospital as a whole are so thankful for this support," she stated.

Pilgrim also highlighted the crucial role played by numerous local businesses that generously donated prizes, significantly contributing to the fundraiser's success. These collaborative efforts exemplify the community's commitment to bolstering local healthcare services. The funds raised are earmarked to enhance the hospital’s maternity services, directly benefiting mothers and newborns in the Whitsundays region by providing essential resources and ongoing care.

Ash, an employee of the Palace Hotel and a key organiser of the fundraiser, had the pleasure of presenting the cheque to the appreciative hospital team. Midwives Nickey Pilgrim, Aleesha Tindall, and Shania Lade were present to graciously accept the donation, their smiles reflecting the profound impact of such community-driven initiatives.

The Proserpine Hospital maternity team extends their heartfelt thanks to the Palace Hotel and all the businesses and individuals who contributed to this highly successful fundraiser, demonstrating once again how local support strengthens vital healthcare services.

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Accepting the presentation from Palace Hotel employee Ash (second from left) are midwives, from left, Nickey Pilgrim, Aleesha Tindall and Shania Lade. Photo supplied

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From July 6 -13 the Whitsunday community has come together to honour NAIDOC Week. During this time, the profound history, rich cultures, and incredible achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples has been recognised.

The week began at the Airlie Beach Markets where Yooribaya Cultural Experiences performed a  Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony, captivating Cultural Dance Performances, and Yooribaya Film Screenings. Interactive workshops also offered hands-on experiences in weaving, artifact creation, sand art, rock painting, and ochre painting.

On Monday morning, Girudala proudly lead a Street Parade and flag raising in Bowen. Deputy Mayor Michelle Wright officially opened NAIDOC Week by acknowledging the traditional owners of the land.

“It’s a privilege to join you today as we mark NAIDOC Week 2025—a time to celebrate the rich history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples,” she said.

“This year’s theme, ‘The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy’, shines a light on the incredible contributions of young First Nations people, and the importance of supporting their growth, leadership, and empowerment.

“It’s also a chance for all of us to reflect on the legacy passed down through generations…….and how we can work together to build a stronger, more positive future.”

On Wednesday AimBig Employment put on a NAIDOC Community barbecue in Proserpine to promote discussion and celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture through connection, creativity and community spirit. There was face painting for children, and an opportunity to contribute to a collaborative community artwork. A display of traditional arts and crafts also featured, showcasing the rich cultural heritage.

This Weekend celebrations continue in Airlie Beach and Bowen.

At the Bowen Foreshore from 10:00am to 2:00pm on Saturday 12 July, Juru culture will be celebrated with traditional ceremonies, energetic dance performances, community speeches, and the presentation of NAIDOC community awards. Live entertainment and a variety of activities for all ages will ensure a memorable day for everyone.

Walking in the Footsteps of Ancestors a NAIDOC Nature Walk will take place at Brandy Creek, as part of the Great Whitsunday Walk on Sunday 13 at 12pm.

Led by Traditional Owners, this free, registration-required event will provide fascinating insights into bush tucker, traditional land management practices, and the profound spiritual connection of First Nations peoples to their land.

UPCOMING
NAIDOC Family Fun Day
Bowen Foreshore
Saturday 12 July | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

NAIDOC Nature Walk
Brandy Creek, Great Whitsunday Walk
Sunday 13 July 2025 | 12:00 PM

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Robert Congoo and Nathaniel Congoo at the Airlie Beach Markets informing people about their culture and NAIDOC Week. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

Street Parade in Bowen about to begin. Photo supplied

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The Sky Way To The Whitsundays

In a major boost for the region, the Queensland Government has committed $5 million in its first Budget to help bring the exciting Whitsunday Skyway project to life. Featuring a cableway, summit station, and downhill mountain biking park near Conway National Park, this world-class experience promises breathtaking views and thrilling new ways to explore the Whitsundays. It’s a game-changer for tourism, jobs, and the local economy. With strong backing from Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm and industry leaders, the Skyway is set to take the region’s adventure offering to the next level.

Big news for adventure tourism in the Whitsundays!

The Government has handed down its first Budget and will be delivering $5 million towards the Whitsunday Skyway project.

This is a bold new project featuring a cableway, summit station and downhill mountain biking park, on and adjacent to Conway National Park.

Member for Whitsunday, Amanda Camm, said this world-class experience will boost tourism, create local jobs, and give visitors a brand-new way to explore our incredible natural landscape.

The Whitsunday region relies heavily on tourism and Whitsunday Skyway would offer a new, unique attraction, providing panoramic views of the islands, reef and coastline.

“Construction, maintenance and operation of the Skyway will create jobs across several sectors. Construction phase jobs would in turn give way to jobs for long-term operational staff in the tourism, hospitality and maintenance field,” Ms Camm said.

CEO of Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC) Natassia Wheeler and Elizabeth Hackett from Whitsunday Skyway were both in attendance at Parliament last week when the budget allocation was announced.

Elizabeth Hackett, Executive Chair of Australian Adventure Tourism Group Limited (AATG), said the new LNP Government, lead by David Crisafulli, has delivered on its promises.

AATG, the proponent for the Whitsunday Skyway project, has accomplished more in eight months under this new Government, than in eight years under the former Labor government.

This progress has resulted in AATG entering a partnership with a world class tourism infrastructure company who will deliver a nature-based tourism offering that will offer significant public benefit.

“I applaud Amanda Camm for her passion and commitment to our region. Amanda has tirelessly supported AATG and the entire tourism industry and works collaboratively with her colleagues to ensure that the Whitsundays are clearly front of mind,” Ms Hackett said.

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CEO of Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC) Natassia Wheeler, Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP, and Elizabeth Hackett from Whitsunday Skyway. Photo supplied

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The Whitsunday Skyway will offer unparalleled views of the islands. Estimated to cost up to $100M, the construction phase could support 500 local jobs and the destination will ultimately generate $25M in economic impact per year. Photo: Illustration only. whitsundayskyway.com

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522,000 and Climbing!

Whitsunday Coast Airport has officially set a new annual passenger record, welcoming over 522,000 passengers over the past 12 months and surpassing its previous record of 507,000 set last year.

This milestone cements Whitsunday Coast Airport’s status as one of Australia’s fastest-growing regional airports and highlights the strong appeal of the Whitsundays as a premier destination for both domestic and international travellers.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the airport’s continued growth is a testament to Council’s long-term vision and investment in the region.

“Whitsunday Coast Airport is a fully self-funded, Council-owned asset that operates without any ratepayer subsidies,” Mayor Collins said.

“It not only covers its own costs but also delivers strong financial returns that are reinvested into local services and infrastructure to support future growth, while providing a dividend back to Council.

“Every dollar of profit strengthens essential services and supports projects that make our region an even better place to live, work, and visit.

“This record-breaking year is a win for our local economy, our tourism industry, and our community as a whole.”

Whitsunday Coast Airport continues to attract major airline partners and new services, positioning the region as a key gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the Whitsunday islands.

Mayor Collins thanked airport staff, airline partners, and the wider community for contributing to the record-breaking achievement.

“Our airport team has done an incredible job delivering safe, efficient, and welcoming services to passengers, and we’re excited to keep building on this momentum,” he said.

Council’s Director of Commercial Businesses, Craig Turner, said a combination of increased flight
frequencies and new route opportunities had driven the airport’s record-breaking performance.

“While the team will take a moment to celebrate this milestone, our priority remains delivering a
seamless, top-quality experience for every passenger — from check-in to touchdown,” he said.

“Our growth trajectory has been strong and steady, rising from 280,000 passengers in 2021 to
507,000 last financial year — and now surpassing 522,000.

“A thriving airport is crucial not only for tourism but also for our local economy, job creation, and regional connectivity.

“Whitsunday Coast Airport is more than a tourism gateway; it’s an essential hub for business travel and freight, keeping our region connected and competitive.”

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The last 12 months has seen a record amount of visitors. Photo supplied

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The Whitsunday community is set to benefit after the newly instated State Government budget outlines how funding will provide vital repairs to the Bowen Courthouse.

The new budget has delivered a $12.5 million boost to restore the Bowen Courthouse, addressing the major structural issues to the historic building while ensuring justice services continue to be delivered in the Whitsunday region.

The project will focus on long-overdue restorations of one of Queensland’s oldest courthouses, the new restoration will be ridding the building of termites and mould.

The roof, gutters, downpipes, and storm water systems will also be replaced to ensure the courthouse can better manage future weather conditions.

Attorney-General, Minister for Justice and Minister for Integrity Deb Frecklington said the Bowen Courthouse was last refurbished almost two decades ago, and upgrades would preserve the building’s original character.

“The multi-million-dollar refurbishment will ensure the Bowen Courthouse can continue to serve the community for years to come,” the Attorney-General said.

“Conditions inside the courthouse are horrendous – there is rising damp, rust, mould and structural shifting inside the courthouse, as well as rotting floors ridden with termites.

“Modern and maintained court facilities are critical for victims navigating the justice system, as well as the safety of our courthouse staff and judiciary.”

Member for Burdekin Dale Last said the Bowen Courthouse illustrates the importance of Bowen during Queensland’s early history.

“This investment will breathe new life into an historic and beautiful building that will serve the Bowen community for many years to come," Mr Last said.

“Not only will these works improve safety, comfort and accessibility for people accessing essential justice services, but they will also restore and protect a building that holds so much history and prominence for the Bowen community.”

Tenders for the construction stage will be called in the coming months, with work expected to commence early next year.

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Bowen Courthouse restoration is expected to begin early next year. Photo sourced: online

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Concerns have been raised about unsafe behaviour and damage to public infrastructure at Jubilee Park in Proserpine, after a group of teenage BMX riders were allegedly seen riding dangerously through the children’s playground on Sunday morning.

According to multiple witnesses, four boys on BMX bikes rode directly through the playground area while young children and toddlers were present.

A concerned community member took to Facebook to report that the boys were riding through the playground where young children and toddlers were playing.

They also said the boys constructed makeshift BMX jumps near the flying fox, causing visible damage to the surrounding area.

One mother asked the group to stop and said she was met with a mixed response, two of the boys reportedly complied, but others joined later and she described their behaviour
as ‘pack mentality’ becoming verbally aggressive and continuing their ride through the play area, despite being asked to stop.

Witnesses reported vulgar language and intimidating behaviour, including offensive remarks directed at a breastfeeding mother.

Ultimately, the community member on Facebook wanted to be clear - young people being active, outdoors and socialising away from screens is good but they feel it is important that they also behave respectfully and comply by playground safety rules.

“I’m sharing this in the hope that it reaches the parents of these boys because if they were my sons I would want to know how they were acting in public especially towards mothers and children,” they shared.

“If your kids ride here please talk to them. This is a space for families and it deserves respect.”

They also expressed frustration over repeated damage to playgrounds in the area, with two swings recently broken at the nearby Proserpine park. The latest incident has renewed calls for increased respect for shared community spaces.

There are currently no formal restrictions on bike use within Jubilee Park, but families say greater awareness is needed to ensure the safety of young children and the preservation of public facilities.

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The community member posted this image on Facebook, along with their concerns. Photo sourced: Facebook

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Tourism Whitsundays has launched the STARS Program, a fresh way to shine a light on the people, places and stories that make The Whitsundays so special.

The program invites local tourism operators and businesses to share their latest news, achievements and updates. Whether it’s a new tour, a recent renovation, standout reviews, or efforts to protect the environment, every story helps promote our region far and wide.

This information will be used to showcase the Whitsundays across regional, state and national platforms, including Tourism and Events Queensland, Tourism Australia, media outlets, trade partners, and Tourism Whitsundays own marketing channels. The more we know, the more we can celebrate everything that makes our region shine.

STARS stands for:

Something new: new offerings, updates, or exciting projects
Transformation and training: business improvements or staff development
Advertising and articles: promotions, campaigns or media coverage
Recognition and results: awards, milestones, or glowing feedback
Sustainability: steps taken to protect and care for our environment

By gathering and sharing these stories, Tourism Whitsundays can highlight the passion and hard work happening across the region, while keeping The Whitsundays front of mind for visitors and partners alike.

It’s all about telling our story and showing the world what makes our region one of Australia’s most loved destinations.

Find out more by contacting us: marketing@tourismwhitsundays.com.au

Contributed with thanks to Tourism Whitsundays

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Record Visitor Numbers At Bowen’s Big Mango

The Bowen Visitor Information Centre, next to the Big Mango, has welcomed a record 56,360 visitors in the past financial year — a 9% increase on the previous year. That’s an average of 1083 people each week, with July and June the busiest months.

Bowen Tourism and Business Manager Leanne Abernethy said day trippers, especially from Airlie Beach, made up 40% of visitors.

“That percentage has been steadily increasing,” she said.

“We have also noticed more people from South Australia since the introduction of direct flights from Proserpine to Adelaide.”

International visitors made up 16% of the total.

Whitsundays Deputy Mayor Michelle Wright congratulated the team, saying, “The consistently strong visitor numbers, including 400 people through the door on the final day of the financial year alone, are a clear sign that the drive tourism marketing strategy is delivering real results.”

Chair of Bowen Tourism and Business Jenn Honnery added, “Welcoming a record number of visitors is a testament to the hard work, warm hospitality, and local knowledge of the staff and volunteers.”

The strong numbers cap off a successful 12 months for the organisation, which also won Gold for Visitor Services at the Whitsunday Tourism Awards and Bronze at the Queensland Awards.

The busy time in Bowen hasn’t eased yet. In the first week of July, the team at the Big Mango welcomed an average of 350 people every day.

RECORD NUMBERS
*Total visitors in financial year - 56,360
*International 15.8%
*Queensland – 58.6%
*Other Australian visitors – 25.6%

Contributed with thanks to Leanne Abernethy

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Bowen Tourism and Business team members, Leanne Abernethy, Cindy Tonks and Glenn Womal with a family from Brisbane this week. Photo supplied

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Staying prepared — together

One of the most important responsibilities I hold as Mayor is chairing our Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG).

While it might not always make front-page news, this work is critical to the safety and resilience of our Whitsunday region’s communities.

This month, our LDMG met once again as part of our ongoing commitment to disaster preparedness. The group isn’t just made up of Council staff and brings together a diverse and dedicated team including our emergency services, SES volunteers, Queensland Police, Queensland Fire and Emergency Services, power and water utilities, port and road infrastructure providers, and community support organisations like the Red Cross.

We meet monthly, even outside of disaster season, because being prepared is not something we do only when the skies start to darken. It’s about ongoing collaboration, planning, and learning from past events so we can respond quickly and effectively when needed.

Whether it’s a cyclone, flood, bushfire, or another unexpected event, our shared goal is to ensure our community is as ready as possible. This means having clear communication plans, up-to-date evacuation strategies, and strong support networks in place  long before an emergency strikes.

Our region is no stranger to natural disasters, and we know how vital it is to build local resilience. From ensuring critical infrastructure can withstand severe weather to supporting vulnerable residents, the LDMG works year-round to make sure no one is left behind.

I want to extend a big thank you to all the members of the LDMG for their ongoing commitment and tireless efforts behind the scenes. Their dedication means that when the unexpected happens, we are ready to stand together as a community and look after one another.

As always, I encourage everyone to have their own household emergency plan in place. You can find resources in the comprehensive Emergency Action Guide on Council’s website to help you prepare, and I urge you to take a moment to review this document.

Stay safe and look out for each other — because in the Whitsundays, we know that together, we’re stronger.

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The 2025–26 Whitsunday Regional Council Budget includes some good news, with funding directed to local infrastructure and community assets. But many in our business community will be feeling the impact of the 21% rise in commercial and industrial rates, along with a 5% increase in utility charges.

The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry has raised concerns, and Council will soon share with us how this additional revenue will be used to support real outcomes for business growth.

At the state level, the Queensland Budget includes several positive initiatives, such as new housing and construction measures and continued investment in tourism and renewable energy—sectors with strong relevance to our region. Congratulations also to the Whitsundays Skyway project that received a $5 million contribution.

However, in the state budget there is ongoing uncertainty around the delivery of key infrastructure commitments, and the withdrawal of exploration funding may impact confidence in the resources and services sectors.

The Chamber will keep advocating strongly for decisions that are fair, transparent, and focused on helping our region grow. We’re here to ensure that business is part of the conversation—and part of the solution.

With a busy few months of regional sport, sailing, and community festivals ahead, we’re looking forward to uniting the region’s businesses at the 2025 Whitsunday Business Conference, taking place on Thursday 28 August at TAFE Queensland’s Cannonvale campus.

This annual event is a chance to come together, share experiences — the highs, the hurdles, and everything in between — and celebrate the spirit of doing business in the Whitsundays.

Attendees can expect a practical, engaging program featuring real-world insights from local business leaders and regional industry experts. See you there!

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Local NDIS Community Comes Together for BBQ Event

A warm, sunny start with the unmistakable aroma of a good old Aussie barbecue set the scene perfectly as local NDIS providers rocked up to host a cracking community event. The whole shindig was all about inclusion, connection, and support. It was a fair dinkum chance for participants, their families, and support workers to kick back, leave their usual routines behind, and soak up a relaxed, social vibe.

“The BBQ was a success. Approximately 60 people turned up, from NDIS Participants to their family to Support Workers from both Providers to the local police, a great time was had by all,” said Tracie Cockburn, Group Co-ordinator and Senior Support Worker.

The BBQ marked a promising beginning to what organisers hope will become a regular series of social events, designed to enhance community engagement and participant wellbeing.

“The community BBQ was a fantastic first step in the collaboration of local NDIS providers to host community social events. This can be a game changer for participants especially those working toward goals like social inclusion, confidence building, and community engagement,” Tracie said.

By working together, service providers can deliver more dynamic and inclusive experiences for their clients.

“When providers join forces they bring together diverse skills and expose participants to a range of personalities from both participants and support workers.”

These events also offer a safe space for developing social confidence and forging new connections.

“Collaborative events attract a wider range of participants which helps foster inclusive social interactions. For people with disabilities who may struggle with unfamiliar settings or peer engagement these events offer a safe and structured way to meet others, build friendships and practice social etiquette.”

Participants also benefit from continuity of care, with aligned approaches between providers.

“When providers collaborate, they can align their approaches and share insights. This helps participants feel secure and understood.”

Importantly, collaboration helps overcome logistical challenges and reduce the risk of isolation.

“Without these joint efforts some participants may miss out on community events altogether due to limited capacity or lack of tailored support.”

For further details, Grow & Evolve Owner/Manager Angela Coventry is available to speak more about the event.

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Whitsunday Coast Airport has officially joined the Containers for Change program, launching a new sustainability initiative expected to generate around $80,000 annually through container refunds.

All departments within Council’s Commercial Businesses Directorate will participate in the program, which will support both the environment and local communities.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the initiative was a double win.

“This is about turning everyday recycling into real support for our local groups,” Mayor Collins said.

“Every eligible bottle or can collected at the airport helps keep valuable materials out of landfill and there is a strong opportunity to channel these funds into grassroots organisations in Airlie Beach, Proserpine, Bowen, and Collinsville.”

How the funds are allocated will be determined by Council, with options including support for regional non-profits and sporting clubs. A Bowen-based contractor will manage the initiative, keeping benefits local.

“Having a Bowen-based contractor manage this program means local jobs and local expertise are driving the impact,” Mayor Collins said.

“It’s another example of how we’re backing local businesses and creating practical environmental outcomes at the same time.”

Craig Turner, Director of Commercial Businesses, said the airport was proud to lead by example.

“We’re in a unique position to show visitors and locals that small actions, like recycling a drink bottle, can make a big difference,” Mr Turner said.

He added the program complements other sustainability efforts at the airport, such as Virgin Australia’s sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) trial in partnership with Viva Energy.

“Our team is proud to be part of projects that not only support the environment but also have the potential to deliver tangible benefits to local clubs and organisations,” he said.

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The Grazing Industry

Many people today may not be aware that before Proserpine became the centre of a major sugar-producing area, it was encircled by large cattle stations. There had, in fact, been substantial cattle runs in the area dating back to the very early 1860s.

These early cattle stations included Bromby Park, now Goorganga (once owned by Bodes and Cottons); Bloomsbury (MacCartneys); Proserpine Station and Amelia Vale (Emmersons); Cattle Vale (The James McDonald family); Collingvale (James Collins) and Myrtlebrook (The Bradleys).

In the 1920s, some of these stations were cut up into smaller sections for cane farms but others survived to the present day and still contribute to the local economy.

The McDonalds of Cattle Vale Station

For over three generations, Cattle Vale was home to the McDonald family. Donald McDonald arrived from Scotland in 1827 as a free settler under a three-year contract to the Van Dieman Land Co. He shipped the first live cattle from England and a draft of sheep from Spain. Donald took up land in South Australia and later Forsayth in Queensland. In 1864, while looking for a suitable grazing area, he was fatally injured at Einasleigh River.

Donald and wife, Elizabeth Archibald, had 8 children including 3 sons - Donald Jnr, James and William. Eldest son, Donald Jnr, remained single and settled in North Queensland. William married Amelia Jochheim at Glencoe Station (in Wangaratta Shire, now Bowen) in 1877. They settled on Woodlands Station and had a family of six daughters. The second son, James, married Mary Hughes and they had two sons, Donald Archibald (Archie) and Bert. They lived on Glencoe before taking up Cattle Vale, including the Mountain Home selection in 1897/98.

When James died, this property was left to the eldest of his two sons, Donald (Archie). Archie married and raised three children on Cattle Vale - Vera (O’Donoghue), Doreen (Shelley) and Jim. James’s other son, Bert, who did not marry, owned the neighbouring property, Hecate. After selling Hecate, he retired to Kelsey Creek.

Archie Mc Donald took part in the social and economic life of the district, invested in property and was a member of Kennedy Stockholders Association. In the article, “Proserpine & District Pioneers”, from the special edition of the “Proserpine Guardian” (1947), W B Morgan stated that there was ‘a small cottage and orchard owned by McDonald occupying the land between Webbers Café and the Prince of Wales Hotel Corner in 1897’. Later, McDonald House was erected where Filby’s Toyota is situated today.

Recollections from Archie’s son, Jim, indicate that his family also owned land that included the hotel (Metropole), the picture theatre, skating rink and mini golf in Chapman Street. The picture theatre referred to was the Tivoli and this was also where the skating rink and mini golf were located. This land is where Porters Hardware and Plumbing is now located. The McDonalds also owned the first 240 volt power generator in 1912/13 to power their picture theatre.

On March 8 1919, “Proserpine Guardian” reported that at a special meeting of the Returned Soldiers’ Association, Mr D A McDonald generously offered to donate a piece of the land adjoining the skating rink in Chapman Street on which to build a ‘rest home’ (that being a rest room for the benefit of returned soldiers).

A J (Jim) McDonald took over Cattle Vale after the death of his father, Archie, but, in 1944, he sold it to Mr Fred Watts Snr and his wife, Marjorie Lyons, as he felt the west was more suitable for expansion and cattle grazing. Jim, Marjorie, and their young family moved to Cloncurry where they purchased Brightlands Station in 1946, laying the foundation for the family’s present extensive pastoral operations, MDH Pty Ltd.

In spite of remoteness, low rainfall and challenges of wild cattle, unfenced paddocks and cattle duffing, Jim and his sons, Bob and Don, increased their holdings and formed the McDonald Holdings Pastoral Company. With nearly two centuries of history in the pastoral industry and now 7th generation of beef producers, MDH

Pty Ltd is one of Australia’s largest beef cattle operations running 150,000 head of cattle on 14 Queensland properties covering 3.36 million hectares. The McDonald family still live and work on the founding property, Brightlands, as well as nearby Devoncourt.

So, what of Cattle Vale Station today?

Cattle Vale Station has had quite a few owners since the McDonalds sold to Mr Fred Watts in 1944. In August 1965, it was sold by then owners Messrs A & B D Collins to a Merinda cattleman, Mr G D Smith. Mr Jim Farr and family purchased the property in 1988 and sold it in 2005 to Mr Ken Stevens who still owns Cattle Vale Station today.

Blazing the Trail.

While sugar has replaced cattle at the heart of Proserpine’s primary production, the area owes much to these early cattlemen who blazed the trail. It was their search for grazing land that opened up North Queensland. The McDonald men must be recognised as part of the backbone of the pastoral industry of Queensland but so too those wonderful women who supported them through their endeavours and dreams.

Stay tuned for more stories of pioneers of the cattle industry in future editions.

Story and photos courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum.

The original cattlevale station homestead. Photo supplied.
Jim McDonald. Photo supplied.

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Meet Dax, a tiny fighter with a huge heart. Dumped near railway tracks at just seven weeks old, this little kitten has already overcome more than most. Now safe in foster care, Dax is slowly learning that not all humans are bad, and that love and kindness do exist.

Dax isn’t ready for adoption just yet, but Bowen and Collinsville Pet Rescue are now taking expressions of interest from kind-hearted families who’d love to welcome him into their home when the time comes.

His adoption fee is $170, which includes microchipping, vaccinations, flea, tick and worm treatments, and desexing when he’s old enough.

If you’d like to be part of Dax’s happy ending, email: bowencollinsville@gmail.com with your contact number and email address.

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