Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Picture this: The golden crunch of a freshly opened bag of chips, salt crystals glittering like tiny diamonds on your tongue. Or the molten stretch of cheese on a late-night pizza, the caramelised edges of a fast-food burger, the cold, creamy slide of ice cream against warm chocolate sauce. In that moment the world shrinks to pure sensation. Crunch, salt, fat, sugar. Each mouthful feels like comfort, celebration, reward. For a few fleeting seconds, everything seems right. Then the swallow. What follows is not true nourishment. Refined sugar, salt and industrial fats rapidly stimulate the brain’s reward centres, releasing dopamine and locking in the desire for more. At the same time the body registers an inflammatory and metabolic challenge. Blood sugar spikes, insulin surges, and protective responses begin. The gut lining becomes irritated, and the body increases mucus production as a barrier. This excess mucus can thicken in the airways, making breathing heavier, or coat the small intestine, slowing nutrient absorption. Managing the inflammation draws heavily on reserves of zinc, magnesium, calcium and antioxidants. When these foods dominate, those reserves steadily decline. The disrupted gut environment also alters the microbiome. Beneficial bacteria diminish while less helpful organisms gain ground. In this sticky terrain, opportunistic organisms including certain parasites can easily take hold, adding further burden. Over time the regular consumption rewires reward pathways until craving becomes compulsive. Digestive rhythm slows, constipation becomes common, aches and brain fog appear. The gut, the body’s engine room, struggles under constant overload and every system feels the strain. Years later the consequences often arrive as chronic disease. Rarely is the pattern of ultra-processed “food-like” substances examined as a root cause. The fleeting pleasure has long been forgotten; only the cost remains. If any of this feels familiar, please know you are not alone and you are not to blame. Modern food environments make these choices almost effortless, and the resulting fatigue and discomfort can leave people feeling stuck. Breaking free is possible, and you do not have to walk the path by yourself. At Healthy Life Essentials we understand how heavy this can feel. We walk beside each person who chooses to heal, offering personalised guidance and steady support. Together we restore depleted nutrient stores, clear excess mucus, repair digestive function and quietly rebuild vitality. Step by step, clarity returns, energy lifts, and the body remembers what true nourishment feels like. Another encouraging truth: you don’t have to go without. We are smart about “treats” making them nutrient-packed and genuinely tasty rather than toxic and destructive. No fleeting rush of “food-like” junk is worth the erosion of your health. The real cost is the quality and length of your life. How would you feel having the health you desire? Healthy Life Essentials is here to guide you back to better health. Brad Baker: Healthy Life Essentials
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During Queensland Mental Health Week, recognised between 3rd -11th October, Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) took the opportunity to recognise the staff who support the mental health and wellbeing of people across the region. The health service acknowledged the diverse team of professionals working across its services, including mental health clinicians, nurses, allied health staff, peer workers and support teams. A representative from Mackay Hospital and Health Service said staff brought compassion, expertise and commitment to their roles, supporting people and families through some of life’s most challenging moments. “Their hard work helps individuals and families feel heard, supported and connected, while strengthening the wellbeing of our wider community.” The representative said even simple interactions, such as a conversation, a listening ear or a moment of connection, could make a meaningful difference to someone experiencing mental health challenges. The health service also recognised that mental health care involved a broad range of staff and roles, with contributions made across different workplaces and services. The acknowledgement served as a thank you to all Mackay HHS staff members who play a part in providing mental health care and supporting the wellbeing of the local community. Mackay Hospital and Health Service has recognised its dedicated mental health workforce, thanking staff across the region for their compassion and ongoing support of individuals and families. Photo source: Mackay Hospital and Health Service
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Mackay State High School students kicked off Mental Health Week by sharing messages of positivity and hope through a creative ‘Chalk the Pavement’ activity. Students were encouraged to use their creativity to write uplifting messages for others who may be doing it tough, helping spread awareness and promote positive mental health across the school community. The school also welcomed a special visitor from Run For MI Life, with the event’s Minion mascot stopping by to promote this weekend’s fun run at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens. Held annually in honour of Mathew Ivory, who the community lost to suicide in 2012, the event was established by founder Jo Shanks and her family to raise awareness and funds for suicide prevention and mental health initiatives across the region. Participants can register to run or walk 3km, 5km or 10km, either individually or as part of a team, with dogs also welcome. Mackay State High School staff have already entered a team. A wellbeing fair will follow the run, giving community members the opportunity to connect with local support services. The event welcomes runners, walkers, volunteers and community members keen to show their support for mental health and suicide prevention in the Mackay region. The run will be held on Sunday 18th October at Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens. Mackay State High School marked Mental Health Week with a ‘Chalk the Pavement’ activity promoting positivity and welcomed Run For MI Life’s Minion mascot to promote this Sunday’s mental health and suicide prevention fun run at the Botanic Gardens. Photo source: Mackay SHS
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OPINION PIECE By Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox For regional areas like here in Dawson, where driving is not optional but essential, higher fuel prices bite hard. Even short bursts of higher prices can have a major impact on already stretched budgets. Families hitting the road over the September school holidays would be acutely aware of the cost to fuel up. Many may have ditched their holiday plans at the last minute or chosen to spend less at their destination to compensate. But it’s not just the cost of filling up the car that is hurting. Supply chains are being smashed, meaning the flow on effects are also felt in other areas, like the checkout. If farmers and truckies are paying more for diesel, the consumer ultimately pays more. The other unfortunate part of higher fuel prices is that inflation is also impacted. Which means interest rates don’t come down. They only go up and stay up. There is, of course, a lever the government could pull right now. Re-introducing a cut to the fuel excise would provide much needed relief. However, when asked last week if the government would re-introduce an excise tax cut, Treasurer Jim Chalmers said, ‘It is not something we are discussing – not something we are considering.’ This is something myself and my colleagues will continue to push for. Our newly announced policy, The Fuel Price Shield, would see the fuel excise automatically halved when Brent Crude Oil rises above $100 per barrel over a two-week period, like it is now. The policy is aimed at ensuring that major oil price shocks do not disproportionately affect Australian families and businesses. Whether you are growing produce, transporting goods, or simply filling up the tank, this policy would mean the relief is immediate. No debating or deliberating. Just automatic implementation.A halving of the fuel excise equates to a reduction of 27 cents per litre or around $15 off a tank for the average family car. For household budgets already stretched to the max under this government’s cost of living crisis, that cut would make all the difference. Also included in the Fuel Price Shield, the 32 cent a litre heavy vehicle road user charge would be set to zero, which would lessen the flow-on costs of transportation. Because overall, high fuel prices mean more than just what is paid at the bowser. It means more at the checkout, more at your favourite café, and more on the mortgage. When the war in the Middle East kicked off earlier this year, Labor dragged their feet in taking action on skyrocketing fuel prices and addressing supply chain issues; remember their major response was to advertise, for us all to inflate our tyres and carry lighter loads. They eventually buckled to pressure and implemented the fuel excise cut, which came off mid-year. Well, fuel prices are back up to similar levels and could yet go higher. Let’s hope the government will see sense or buckle to pressure and provide the relief so desperately needed. The government can and should pull that excise tax lever now. They can’t control far away wars. But they have the power to lower the price at the pump.
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Mackay and the Whitsundays have seen a steady demand for new homes, with building costs stabilising and approvals rising over the past year. However, the latest figures show a slight dip of 2.8 per cent in the last quarter, highlighting the ongoing challenges in meeting housing supply needs.
The figures from Australian Bureau of Statistics reveal all regions except the Gold Coast enjoyed a boost in the number of approvals of new houses and units in the 12 months to January, rising by 6.3 per cent across Queensland.
The cost to build also stabilised, helping to release some of the pent-up demand for detached houses, and increasing approvals statewide by 12.7 per cent over the year. Unfortunately, this was not the case for units, where approvals continued to struggle, down -6.9 per cent.
However, the three-month breakdown from November to January disappointingly confirms a return to a downward trend. Greater Brisbane (-14.9 per cent) and Wide Bay Burnett (-11.5 per cent) clocked double-figure negatives, along with Gold Coast (-8.3 per cent), North Queensland (-7.5), and Far North Queensland (-6.4 per cent), Mackay & Whitsunday (-2.8 per cent) and Downs & Western (-2.4 per cent). Central Queensland was the only exception, with a +3.9 per cent hike.
Master Builders Queensland CEO Paul Bidwell said the state government had made significant strides forward in slashing red tape, but those efforts were yet to translate into bricks and mortar.
“We applauded the Building Reg Reno announcement in February, with steps including a freeze on the unworkable Project Trust Accounts system, and more recently, the scrapping of unnecessary financial reporting for around 50,000 small businesses. But this is only part of the story and change won’t happen overnight.
“We now have the freshly reinstated Queensland Productivity Commission, which will spotlight our industry, and home in on the challenges hampering the delivery of low-rise housing, and large unit developments.
“From scrapping the already-frozen Best Practice Industry Conditions and Project Trust Accounts, to addressing barriers to more workers joining our industry as newcomers or from interstate; and making the Queensland Building and Construction Commission operate as a more balanced and robust regulator, these are issues we have long advocated on.
“In the 12 months to January, 35,727 new builds were approved across the state – well shy of the government housing target we’ve been set of 50,000 each year.
“The numbers don’t stack up, but these measures will help shift the dial on housing supply, while keeping safety and build quality at the top of the list.”
Mackay Regional Council has announced Muller Park in Ooralea will be getting new “tower fun” playground equipment, which was chosen by residents.
The announcement comes after the original play equipment was removed late last year due to its age and poor condition.
Mayor Greg Williamson said Muller Park was a popular park that residents valued.
“Families told us loud and clear that Muller Park was a vital community space – whether that’s to ride the miniature trains, hold birthday parties and picnics, or just as a play space after school or on weekends,” Mayor Williamson said.
Extensive consultation to determine the park’s future use was undertaken with the community, including an on-site engagement session at Muller Park and an online survey.
About 114 individuals had their say on the park’s future and more than 60 per cent of those had young children.
Mayor Williamson said the community was given six options to choose from, which included tower fun, adventure climb, dig site, swing park, ninja warrior course, and jump and bounce park.
“Out of all the options, 58 per cent of residents voted for tower fun,” he said.
“Tower fun caters for a wide age range, from babies to teens of about 14, and offers many types of play that allow kids to be active and imaginative.
“The idea is that little ones will be able to explore the shaded lower-level areas, while the older kids can climb to the top.
“Online feedback also suggested the need for additional fencing around the playground.
“As a result, the new playground will be fully fenced and feature softfall underfoot.”
The detailed playground design is expected to be completed by the start of next year, with construction forecast to commence in the first half of 2026.
Visit connectingmackay.com.au to keep up to date on the project.
About 114 individuals had their say on the park’s future and more than 60 per cent of those had young children. Photo and image supplied by Mackay Regional Council
Visitors to the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens are being urged to take extra caution following a report of a possible crocodile sighting in the lagoons over the weekend. While there has been no visual confirmation yet, the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI) has installed signage and will conduct investigations this week.
As a precaution, authorities recommend that visitors and their pets remain at least five metres from the water’s edge. The public is also encouraged to report any confirmed sightings to DETSI by calling 1300 130 372.
This report comes as crocodile activity in Mackay continues to make headlines. So far this year, there have been nine recorded crocodile sightings in the region. Just last month, DETSI confirmed a sighting in the freshwater above Dumbleton Weir. Wildlife officers have since baited a trap in an effort to remove the animal.
DETSI urges residents to report all crocodile sightings, whether they are a cause for concern or not, as tracking movements and behaviour helps authorities manage the presence of these reptiles. The only exception is when crocodiles are legally held in captivity, such as in farms or zoos.
For those who frequent Mackay’s waterways, staying “Crocwise” is essential. Avoiding swimming in known crocodile habitats, keeping a safe distance from the water, and remaining alert are all key steps to staying safe.
While this latest report remains unconfirmed, it serves as a timely reminder that Mackay is crocodile country. If you spot a crocodile, report it via the QWildlife app, the DETSI website, or by calling 1300 130 372.
Photo credit: Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens
The Zonta Club of Bowen hosted a successful fundraiser on Thursday the 20th of March at Bowen's quaint and iconic Summergarden Theatre. One of the longest continually operating theatres in Queensland, our local cinema has been the cornerstone of the community’s entertainment scene since its opening in 1948 and is now owned and operated by the town's very own Ben DeLuca since 1962.
The fundraiser featured a special screening of the heartwarming Australian film “What About Sal?” , written and directed by renowned actor and filmmaker John Jarrat. The film presents the touching and inspiring story of Sal, a man with Down Syndrome who embarks on a quest to find his unnamed father after learning of his mothers illness
This memorable evening included more than just a movie, guests enjoyed a delightful supper and complimentary champagne creating an enjoyable social atmosphere. Guests were also encouraged to wear mismatched or colourful socks as a playful act of support in order to raise awareness for Down Syndrome
The night was a testament to the strong relationship between the Zonta Club of Bowen and Summergarden Theatre owner Ben De Luca.
“We work with many charities in Bowen and we love the Zonta Club, they are a good mob, very organised. We host them regularly, even multiple times a year” said Mr De Luca.
Funds collected from this unforgettable evening directly support the Zonta Club of Bowen’s unwavering commitment and continued efforts in empowering and improving the lives of girls and women both locally and globally.
The club expressed their gratitude to Mr De Luca and attendees of the event, emphasising the importance of such events in bringing communities together and promoting awareness within them. Residents interested in supporting future Zonta Club Bowen initiatives or future events at Bowen Summergarden Theatres can follow them on their respective social media accounts.
Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, has announced that if he is re-elected in May this year, $250,000 will be committed towards upgrades to the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre, ensuring it can continue delivering vital services in a safe, modern, and accessible space.
“The Bowen Neighbourhood Centre provides essential support to people facing difficult circumstances, offering essential services that enhance dignity, wellbeing, and quality of life for people across the region,” Mr Willcox said.
“From providing assistance with housing and legal matters to supporting those affected by domestic violence, the centre is a critical lifeline for many in need. Every day, the dedicated staff and volunteers make an enormous difference in the lives of people across the community.” Mr Wilcox said that's he's dedicated "to strengthening regional communities, supporting local services, and ensuring that every Australian has access to the help they need when they need it most.”
John Finlay, Treasurer of the Bowen Community Centre said, “This is a fantastic announcement for the Bowen community." He sees this promise as a great opportunity to realise their vision for the future of the building itself, and the services they could help provide to the Bowen community.
“Once the building refurbishments are complete, this will open the door to allowing other community groups to use the upgraded facilities," commented John. “We are seeing a lot more domestic violence cases, which is really concerning. Cost of living is also a big issue, and we are seeing people of all ages and backgrounds needing help for the very first time. But we have an incredible team of highly trained staff who stand ready to provide crucial support services."
Once the centre is open John says that they “plan to also offer the spaces to corporate organisations for training and the good thing about that is any funds that come in will be put back into the Bowen Community Centre." The Neighbourhood Centre will to continue to operate as normal until then, so if you require any of their helpful services do not hesitate to drop by 34/38 Gregory St, Bowen QLD or give them a call at: 07 4786 2111.
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Wilcox and Councillor John Finlay, Treasurer of the Bowen Community Centre with the dedicated staff of the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre. Photon supplied
Friday night was a shining moment for BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort, as the team proudly
claimed Gold in the Caravan & Holiday Parks category at the national Qantas Australian Tourism Awards in Adelaide.
This remarkable win marks the third consecutive year that BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort has taken home Gold in this category, officially securing its place in the prestigious Australian Tourism Awards Hall of Fame.
With 185 entries over 26 categories, BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort was one of six out of 24 Queensland tourism operators who won gold at the national awards, with eight outstanding
operators from across Australia vying for the top spot in the Caravan and Holiday Parks category.
Owner Greg McKinnon, who attended the gala event with some of his team, expressed immense pride over the national recognition.
“Winning three years in a row and being inducted into the Hall of Fame is far beyond what we’d
imagined, particularly when we are competing against the best Holiday Parks in the country. The
competition in our category was outstanding, so we are extremely honoured to accept this gold
award, while also entering the Hall of Fame on an Australian level.
“This national win again highlights our dedication to setting industry benchmarks, consistently
delivering top-tier facilities, exceptional customer service and unforgettable family holidays. We’ll
continue striving for excellence, while incorporating some exciting new developments in the near future which our guests will love and which will only enhance their overall experience,” said Greg.
Cementing its place as one of Australia’s most celebrated holiday destinations, the national Hall of Fame status follows the resort’s recent induction into the state and local Hall of Fame after winning gold for three consecutive years in the same category at the Queensland and Whitsunday Tourism Awards, reflecting BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort’s unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and outstanding guest experiences.
CEO, Phil Casey, who also attended the national awards ceremony, praised the dedication of the resort’s team and the unwavering support of guests.
“We’re fortunate to have so many fun-loving guests who choose to stay with us, many returning
year after year, so needless to say we extend a huge thank you to our guests who continue to
share their holidays with us. This award is also a reflection of our incredible team’s hard work, both front and back of house, to create unforgettable holiday memories,” said Phil.
As one of Australia’s most loved holiday parks, BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort is a testament to exceptional experiences, recently celebrating 31 years of ownership by the McKinnon family and offering extensive facilities for families, caravanners and groups to enjoy a Whitsunday holiday like no other.
Guests can enjoy over 15 onsite activities, including the huge mega waterslide park, lagoon-style pool, mini golf, jumping pillows, outdoor cinema, Kid’s Club, and year-round activities program. The resort provides easy access to the Great Barrier Reef, Whitehaven Beach, the Whitsunday Islands, and a host of unforgettable Australian holiday experiences.
The BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort team take home gold for the third consecutive year at the Australian Tourism Awards. Photo supplied
The Whitsundays’ original and most awarded tour operator, Ocean Rafting, is stoked to take the podium and be recognised amongst Australia’s best tourism operators.
Since 1984, the Australian tourism Awards have long been the nation’s premier recognition of excellence in the tourism industry. Ocean Rafting joined the nation’s best in the beautiful Adelaide and is beyond thrilled to be taking home a Bronze in the “Major Tour & Transport Operator”category in the 2024 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards.
Peter and Jan Claxton, the proud owners of Ocean Rafting for 28 years, along with Nathan their Sales & Marketing Captain of 13 years, were overjoyed to represent the family-owned business at the awards ceremony in Adelaide. Their heartfelt gratitude went to their passionate team, dedicated family members, and loyal guests, whose support has been pivotal to their ongoing success.
Peter shared, “A huge thank you to all our team, both past and present, who share our passion for tourism and showcasing nature's wonders. We are proud to continue stepping onto the podium and winning awards like this for all those who have made Ocean Rafting what it is today”.
“Additionally, I would like to thank all our guests who have enjoyed a day out, whether that be on the water or in the air, in the last 28 years of operations”, said Pete
Jan added, “These awards are for our team, as much as they’re for us, so cheers to us, and cheers to the team”.
Three generations of family and almost three decades as one of the Whitsundays’ most loved on-water experiences, Ocean Rafting’s mission is still to treat every day as if it was the one and only day their guests will experience Ocean Rafting and the Whitsundays’; and this has attributed to the company’s long-term success and thriving growth over the years.
The team would also like to thank Australian Tourism Awards for facilitating these awards and their continued support for our industry. Additionally, we would like to raise our glasses to all the fellow operators and local businesses for their much-deserved recognition and awards.
Beyond their remarkable history of providing unforgettable on-water experiences, Ocean Rafting is equally committed to the environmental sector by participating in the Tourism Reef Protection Initiative and starting our very own initiative, “Tins 4 Fins,” to fund beach cleans and additional research, ensuring we protect this beautiful part of the world.
Ocean Rafting’s reputation speaks for itself and is recognised with a perfect score as Best of Queensland Experience under the national quality tourism framework along with a Quality Tourism accreditation. Additionally, Ocean Rafting is the recipient of a TripAdvisor Travellers Choice Award for being in the top 10% of attractions worldwide every year since 2012 and a TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best award winner in the Top 1% of Tourism Businesses around the world and Top 10 Experiences in Australia.
Ocean Rafting Peter and Jan Claxton with Sales & Marketing Captain Nathan Fleming at the Australian Tourism Awards which were held in Adelaide last weekend. Photo supplied
Last week, the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry launched its Advisory Group, bringing together regional business leaders to drive strategic discussions and strengthen the united voice of the Whitsunday business community.
“The Advisory Group will serve as a strategic think tank, reinforcing the Chamber’s position as the ‘go-to’ source of regional business expertise for all levels of government,” said Chamber President Allan Milostic.
In its inaugural meeting, the Advisory Group reinforced the need to tackle pressing business challenges, including red tape reduction, road quality and safety, and workforce availability and productivity.
Looking ahead, the group encouraged the Chamber to explore future-focused initiatives such as championing tradies, supporting young entrepreneurs, establishing special interest groups to advise on specific issues and precincts, and strengthening the region’s support of a university hub and research centres.
Queensland Small Business Month event
Registrations are now open for the Chamber’s Queensland Small Business Month event to be held 7:30am-9:00am Thursday 13 May in Airlie Beach.
Guest speakers include Dominique Lamb, Queensland Small Business Commissioner and Mayor Ry Collins. They will explore the following with the region’s business community, including ways we can increase collaboration to drive positive change:
Election Promise Report Card – Progress updates on road improvements, red tape reduction, and small business priorities.
Lessons from TC Alfred – Exploring the impact of recent weather events and strategies for future resilience.
L-R Andrew and Jaide Paranomos (McDonalds), Judy Porter (Shiift), Julia Wheway (TAFE Queensland), Bernadette Porter (Proserpine State High School), Mark Henry (Bendigo Community Bank), Adrian Bram (WCBIA) and Allan Milostic
Last week, I was on the road championing our incredible region on a national stage.
It was an honour to Chair my first Queensland Regional Tourism Network (QRTN) meeting on Monday, where we discussed how we can work together to strengthen tourism across the state. I’m looking forward to the year ahead and what we can achieve as a collective.
Next stop: the RTO Forum, which brought together tourism marketing organisations from across the country. We had insightful presentations from Tourism Australia on emerging travel trends, discussion panels on data and social media, and guest speakers covering everything from AI to innovative ways to gather new tourism insights. These conversations shape how we market our region and ensure we stay ahead of the curve.
From there, Laura and I travelled to Adelaide with Marianne from Whitsundays Regional Council to visit six Phil Hoffmann Travel stores, South Australia’s leading travel agency brand. As a business, we had the opportunity to train approximately 40 travel agents on The Whitsundays, providing key updates on attractions and experiences. With the direct Jetstar flight from Adelaide to Whitsunday Coast Airport, we’re working hard to make sure South Australians have The Whitsundays at the top of their travel list.
Finally, I was lucky enough to attend the 2024 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards on Friday night, where The Whitsundays absolutely shone! A massive congratulations again to BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort, Pinnacles Airlie Beach, and Ocean Rafting for taking home gold, silver, and bronze. These achievements help keep The Whitsundays on the map and reinforce why our region is such a special place to visit.
Contributed by Tim Booth, CEO, Tourism Whitsundays
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As Mayor of the Whitsundays, I hear firsthand from residents about the challenges they face every day. One of the most pressing concerns I continue to hear, time and time again, is the shortage of doctors in our region.
Right now, too many people in our community are struggling to get a timely appointment with a GP. Families, seniors, and workers are waiting weeks, sometimes even months, for basic medical care.
This is simply not good enough. Our residents deserve access to quality healthcare, no matter where they live.
With the federal election on the horizon, I am calling on all sides of politics to commit to better GP funding and real solutions to bring more doctors to regional communities like ours.
The Whitsundays is a growing region. More people are choosing to call our beautiful part of the world home, and we are experiencing record-breaking tourism numbers. But our healthcare system is not keeping pace.
I’ve spoken to local GP clinics, and the reality is clear—they are at capacity. Some have closed their books to new patients. Others simply don’t have enough doctors to meet the demand. This puts enormous pressure on our hospital system, forcing people to seek emergency care for issues that should be treated in a GP clinic.
Regional communities like ours should not have to compete with big cities to attract doctors. We need better funding models and incentives to encourage more medical professionals to live and work in places like the Whitsundays.
I am advocating for stronger federal government investment in regional healthcare, including a commitment to medical workforce planning, ensuring that regional Australia is not left behind when it comes to doctor shortages.
The Whitsundays is a world-class destination and a fantastic place to live. But access to quality healthcare is not a luxury—it’s a basic right.
As Mayor, I will continue to push for these critical changes in the lead-up to the election. I encourage our community to make their voices heard by asking your local candidates where they stand on regional healthcare, and demand action.
If you're looking for a peaceful escape, Whitsunday Gold Coffee is the perfect place. The plantation is famous for its locally grown coffee, and there’s nothing like sipping a cup made from beans grown right there on the property. Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast or just looking to relax, it’s a wonderful experience.
I thoroughly enjoyed chatting with the owner, Nikki, who is currently in the process of upgrading their aviary with new mesh and creating a serene nursery with a seated area. The charm of the plantation is undeniable. I can’t wait to see the finished space, it’s sure to become a fantastic spot for birdwatching and taking in the surrounding beauty.
For families, there’s an indoor play area and beautifully decorated kids' party rooms, making it a great place to bring the little ones.
I was also lucky enough to try one of Chef-Gus's incredible signature dishes; a mango and calamari salad. It was light, colourful, and packed with flavour, with tender calamari and fresh local mango.
Whitsunday Gold Coffee Plantation is a true treasure for Proserpine, offering a peaceful sanctuary to enjoy great coffee, delicious food, and nature. Whether you're stopping by for a coffee or a quiet day out, it's definitely worth the visit.
Contributed by Jade Yvonne, Business Development Executive, Tourism Whitsundays
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Hi Everyone,
Thank you to everyone sharing stories for the paper. This week, we’re featuring some exciting whale research.
Whales hold a special place in my heart. Last year’s whale season gave me so many incredible moments, but one that stands out is hearing whale songs while scuba diving.
Happy reading!
Ruth
“Acknowledging the good that you already have in your life is the foundation for all abundance.” ― Eckhart Tolle, A New Earth
Everyone in the community is invited to come on down to Coral Sea Marina at 7.30am this Sunday for the inaugural Whitsunday Epic Walk for DV. Bring your walking shoes, dress in your active wear, grab your kids and your dogs, and get your mind and your body moving for a good cause.
Organisers are encouraging participants to walk and talk as a group, creating a steady flow of conversation to start connecting about the important topic of domestic and family violence in our communities.
THIS SUNDAY, 7.30am, CORAL SEA MARINA GARDENS
EVERYONE WELCOME!
Over the past six months four local businesswomen-turned Dancing CEOs – Kate Purdie (Coral Sea Marina), Julie Telford (SeaLink Whitsundays), Candice Crossley (Whitsunday Transit) and Alice Harriott (Whitsunday Family Dental) – along with their team mentor, Katelyn Aslett-Collins (Taste Whitsundays) – have been building a movement to raise funds and awareness for Women’s Legal Service Queensland (WLSQ), an organisation that helps women and children escape domestic violence and reclaim their lives.
It was two former Dancing CEOs – Brendan Smith (Network Ten) and Brendon Mann (Epic Hair Designs) – who founded the Epic Walk for DV.
“The entire meaning behind this is gathering as a community,” Brendan Smith explained.
“We always say ‘it takes a village’ to either solve a problem or to raise awareness, and the Epic Walk for DV is about starting that conversation around domestic and family violence, getting rid of the stigma that’s attached to it – and of course raising as much money for WLSQ as we can,” he said.
Coral Sea Marina CEO, Kate Purdie, stressed the walk was epic in name rather than nature, and therefore open to all of the community regardless of fitness levels or age.
“This scenic walk along the Bicentennial Boardwalk will be two laps from the marina gardens to VMR and back; it’s a community event and we invite you to bring your friends, your workmates and your family along,” she said.
“The important thing is that rain or shine, we get as many people together as possible to unite in a visible show of support for women and children impacted by domestic violence.”
Participants are asked to sign up for the walk at www.epicwalkfordv.com.au - either as individuals or with friends, family, or colleagues as fundraising teams.
Kids and fur-kids all walk free, however the registration fee of $24 per adult covers a purple ‘Epic Walk’ T-shirt and a sausage sizzle cooked up by the Airlie Beach Rotary Club, with food supplied by Woolworths Cannonvale.
Walkers can muster in the marina gardens from 6.30am, with hot coffee available thanks to Chasing Te Ra. A pre-walk warm-up by Maggie Spark (Spark Life) will get everyone in the groove, while the kids (and big kids) receive their free bubble sticks courtesy of Big W.
The Whitsundays shone brightly at the Australian Tourism Awards which were held in Adelaide last weekend, with three local businesses receiving national accolades.
Raising the profile of the Whitsundays on a national stage, these local businesses are leading the way for local tourism and shining a spotlight on our region.
The illustrious awards ceremony at the Adelaide Convention Centre in South Australia celebrated four decades of tourism excellence while showcasing the industry's finest.
Tim Booth, CEO of Tourism Whitsundays says it was an incredible night for The Whitsundays:
"Winning Gold, Silver, and Bronze across different categories shows just how amazing our tourism offerings are. I couldn't be prouder of our operators and seeing BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort winning gold was definitely a highlight.
“These awards aren't just trophies on a shelf, they represent the heart and soul that our tourism businesses pour into creating unforgettable memories for visitors. It's this dedication that keeps people coming back to The Whitsundays time and again."
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins congratulated BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort, Pinnacles, and Ocean Rafting for doing the region proud.
"Tourism is the beating heart of The Whitsundays economy, and these national awards highlight the strength and resilience of our industry.
“Being recognised on such a prestigious platform showcases the outstanding work being done by our local businesses and sends a clear message – The Whitsundays is not just a beautiful place to visit, it’s a leader in Australian tourism."
This remarkable achievement across all three medal tiers reinforces The Whitsundays status as a premier tourism destination and highlights the exceptional experiences awaiting visitors to this stunning part of Queensland.
By Ruth Puddefoot
Sustainable Aviation Fuel has officially landed at Whitsunday Coast Airport. Mayor Ry Collins says it is “the perfect fit” for a region shaped by the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef and driven by a passion for protecting it.
Made from renewable resources like waste oils and crop residues, SAF cuts carbon emissions without compromising performance. This marks a major step towards cleaner, greener air travel in the Whitsundays.
Mayor Collins praised Virgin Australia and Viva Energy for their leadership in the aviation industry and for recognising the Whitsundays as an ideal location to showcase the benefits of SAF.
“It makes absolute sense that Virgin Australia would choose Whitsunday Coast Airport as the launch site for its first ongoing SAF-powered services,” Mayor Collins said.
“We are located in one of the most pristine and ecologically significant regions in the world, and as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, we have a responsibility to embrace innovative solutions that reduce our environmental footprint.
“The Whitsundays region has long been a leader in biodiversity initiatives, with strong community-driven efforts to protect its reefs, marine life, and natural landscapes.
"The adoption of SAF at Whitsunday Coast Airport is a significant step forward in the broader sustainability journey.
“Virgin Australia and Viva Energy should be commended for their commitment to driving positive change in aviation."
Whitsunday Coast Airport CEO Craig Turner emphasised the importance of maintaining a balance between economic growth and environmental responsibility.
“500,000 plus passengers transit through our airport each year, and with tourism as the backbone of our economy, we need to do everything possible to protect the very natural wonders that draw people here in the first place,” he said.
“The introduction of Sustainable Aviation Fuel is an important milestone in reducing aviation-related carbon emissions, and Whitsunday Coast Airport is proud to be at the forefront of this transition in Australia.”
Mr Turner credited the strong partnerships between Whitsunday Coast Airport, Virgin Australia, and Viva Energy as the driving force behind securing this national first for the region.
“This partnership between Virgin Australia, Viva Energy, and Whitsunday Coast Airport is a testament to the close relationships we have with our airline partners and stakeholders,” he said.
Virgin Australia has entered an agreement with Viva Energy to obtain Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) for its services departing from Whitsunday Coast Airport, marking a significant milestone as the first major Australian airline to use SAF on an ongoing basis at a commercial airport in the country.
Viva Energy’s General Manager for Aviation, Nick Adams, said the initiative would help establish the supply chains needed for SAF to become more widely available across regional Australia.
“It is clear that SAF is going to play a bigger role for commercial airlines in this country as they move towards a more sustainable future,” Mr Adams said.
“Through this collaboration – and drawing on the strengths of Viva Energy’s national distribution network and experience with high-quality fuels and aviation operations – we will be working with Virgin Australia to establish the supply chains that will be critical to the future of the aviation industry.”
Left to right: Amy Humphries WCA Acting Operations Manager, Shaun Cawood Manager Aviation, Tourism, Marine, Craig Turner Director Commercial Business, Daniel Dott (Virgin), David Mann (VIVA), Greg Atkin (VIVA), Robert Cavicchiolo (VIVA), Michael Nixon WCA. Photo supplied
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