What began as a simple conversation with two homeless men in a park sparked the creation of a regular Thursday lunch gathering at the Lagoon.
Barb Hill, an organiser with Drug Arm Mackay, approached the men and asked how she could assist them. Their response was straightforward, they needed food. This led Barb to develop the idea of providing regular meals, which has since expanded to weekly gatherings in both Airlie Beach and Bowen.
While the meet-ups are a great way for individuals to have food and socialise, they also offer a support network, where people can be connected with essential services.
Barb expressed that everyone is welcome:
“Homelessness looks different to different people.
“It doesn't just mean someone sleeping in the garden, it can be in their cars, or other places.
“What we do is bring that connection and non-judgment.”
Alongside organising social gatherings, Barb also has nonperishable food items, sleeping bags, sleeping mats, clothes and personal hygiene products, that she brings along for anyone who may need it.
“We operate on donation for the outreach, It's not funded at all.
“The Neighbourhood Centre also helps out much as they can.”
Alongside a fantastic Christmas spread, there was even a special appearance from Santa, who brought along a fruit platter for the event.
“It's planting the seed of kindness and compassion, and in turn, helps them in the long term,” Barb explained.

‍

Santa delivering the fruit platter
The wonderful volunteers
Everyone enjoying their Christmas lunch
The delicious Christmas spread

‍

The Proserpine Mill has officially concluded its 2024 crushing season due to wet field conditions and an inadequate cane supply, according to Wilmar Sugar Proserpine Cane Supply Manager Peter Luke.
The mill ceased processing operations last Thursday, 12th of December, following widespread rain that significantly hindered harvesting efforts. A storm on Monday night compounded the situation, delivering 40mm to 120mm of rain across the region and further delaying any chance of field recovery.
Discussions with harvesting sector representatives and growers confirmed that cane supply was unlikely to improve enough to justify continued operations and after consulting grower representatives earlier this week, the decision was made to officially shut down the mill for the season.
Despite the challenges, the Proserpine Mill managed to process approximately 1.67 million tonnes of cane, achieving 97 per cent of the total forecast crop for the year with Peter thanking growers and harvesting contractors for their dedication and hard work throughout the season.
“I’d like to thank all growers and harvesting contractors for their efforts throughout the 2024 season and extend our best wishes for a safe and relaxing Christmas with family and friends,” shared Pete.
Looking ahead, the mill will now focus on preparing for the 2025 season, with hopes for better weather and harvesting conditions in the year ahead.

‍

The Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassador Program is dedicated to ensuring that every passenger has a warm and welcoming experience in the Whitsundays. From offering helpful tips on local activities to assisting with the coordination of cruise ship markets, each ambassador plays a unique and vital role in creating a memorable visit for all guests.
Last Wednesday, the ambassadors gathered to celebrate Christmas and reflect on a successful year for tourism in the region.
Lyn Blanche Woodham, Leader of the Whitsunday Cruise Ship Ambassador Program, expressed her appreciation for the volunteers' hard work and commitment over the past year:
"I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all our Cruise Ambassadors for their dedication and time. I hope everyone enjoys a well-deserved break over Christmas."
According to the 2023-24 economic impact report on cruising in Australia by Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) and the Australian Cruise Association (ACA), Airlie Beach has emerged as a key contributor to the state's overall performance. The region saw an impressive 144,959 passenger days, generating direct expenditure of $57.39 million, underscoring its growing importance as a cruise destination.

‍

The Cruise Ambassadors celebrating christmas in Style

‍

This week, the Proserpine Community Centre had the honor of welcoming a very special VIP guest all the way from the North Pole—none other than Santa Claus himself! But this wasn't just any ordinary visit. Santa made a grand and unforgettable entrance, arriving in style on a stunning Harley Davidson motorcycle, much to the excitement and delight of the gathered crowd.
Accompanied by his acrobatically talented elf, who added a touch of flair and fun to the festivities, Santa spent the afternoon spreading joy and holiday cheer. He handed out an abundance of treats and goodies, and posed for countless family photos in front of a beautifully decorated Christmas tree.
But Santa's visit wasn’t just about spreading festive cheer in Proserpine. Santa had an important mission to accomplish, one that spanned the entire Whitsundays. His task? To make sure he visited every child in the region and spread some Christmas magic. According to the Proserpine Community Centre, Mr. Claus' mission was a resounding success!
With his mission complete, Santa Claus will now be heading back to the North Pole to finalize his preparations ahead of next Wednesday’s big day. The elves are no doubt busy wrapping up the final touches at the North Pole, as Santa gets ready for his annual global journey to deliver presents and holiday cheer to children all around the world.

Santa on his Harley at the Proserpine Community Centre.

‍

As I wrap up my second month at Tourism Whitsundays, I’m really settling in and enjoying the chance to connect with our amazing Whitsundays community. It’s been a fantastic journey so far, and as we approach the end of the year, I wanted to share an update on tourism in our region.
This week, we received the National and International Visitor Survey update for the year ending September 2024, and the results are promising. Domestic tourism continues to grow, with visitor spend hitting $1.4 billion—up 12% from last year. We also saw a 2% increase in domestic visitors, reaching 742,000. The average visitor stayed longer too, with total nights rising 6% to 3.3 million, and average spend per person climbing by nearly 10% to $1,927.
On the international front, recovery is strong and in line with Queensland and Australia but still has a little way to go. Visitor numbers have hit 188,000, which is 85% of pre-pandemic levels and holiday visitor nights are up to 1.1 million, a recovery of 80%. Visitors from the UK and USA have seen significant growth, with numbers from the UK increasing by 30% and USA visitors increasing by 18%.
It’s clear that The Whitsundays continues to shine, and I’m excited to see what 2025 holds. Wishing everyone in The Whitsundays a Merry Christmas and a safe, relaxing holiday season!

Contributed by Tim Booth, CEO, Tourism Whitsundays

Tim Booth, CEO, Tourism Whitsundays.

‍

Recently, Jade visited Azure Sea Resort to speak with managers Stuart and Nicole Morris. Located in Airlie Beach, this resort offers stunning 180-degree views over the Coral Sea towards Hayman Island. Azure Sea Resort features 30 exquisitely appointed, fully equipped apartments accessible via lift. Guests can relax in tropical gardens or enjoy a spectacular infinity-edge waterfall swimming pool that flows into a second pool. Conveniently, the resort is only an 8-minute walk from the beach and shopping areas.
Stuart and Nicole were honoured as the 'Resident Managers of the Year' for 2024 at the ARAMA Awards. This prestigious recognition reflects their outstanding management of a premier Australian holiday destination. Since taking over the resort in December 2022, they completed a refurbishment of the 255,000-litre pools and spa in just six weeks—well ahead of the initially estimated three months.
While managing the renovations and coordinating with three Body Corporates, they also launched a successful marketing campaign that significantly improved investor returns. Since their arrival, the letting pool has increased by 25%. This award highlights the importance of delivering excellent service in property management and exemplifies how dedicated efforts can enhance the overall experience for both owners and guests at the resort.

Contributed by Jade Yvonne, Business Development Executive,  Tourism Whitsundays
Caption: Azure Sea Resort

‍

Having recently taken over the iconic Kevla Espresso Bar in Bowen, new owner Brad Williams is enthusiastic about the café’s future. With years of experience in hospitality, Brad has long dreamed of running his own business, a vision he has now brought to life after transitioning from the coal mines to the café industry.
Kevla Espresso Bar offers a delightful selection of coffees, mouthwatering paninis, and a variety of healthy options, all served in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Tucked away on Murroona Street, just behind the chiropractor's office and nestled within the gym, this hidden gem is the perfect spot to relax and recharge.
Brad shared that the decision to take over Kevla Espresso Bar was driven by his passion for the hospitality sector and his desire to create a welcoming space for the community.
When asked what sets Kevla Espresso Bar apart from other local eateries, Brad highlighted the café’s exceptional coffee.
“One of our main selling points is our coffee,” he said. “We source our beans from Kai Coffee on the Sunshine Coast, which allows us to serve a smooth, rich cup every time.”
Along with the exceptional coffees, the outstanding service and the dedication of manager Abbie Paul truly elevate the entire experience at Kevla Espresso Bar:
“Abbie is a young local from Bowen, and she runs the place so well!” Brad added.
The business is deeply involved in the community, organizing events such as toy runs and lolly drops in collaboration with local firefighters and paramedics. In addition, they host suicide prevention initiatives and, just this week, invited families to a Christmas cookie and craft workshop.
Looking ahead, Brad envisions taking Kevla Espresso Bar to new heights by diversifying its offerings and creating a dynamic space for both the local community and corporate clients.
One of his key goals is to position the Espresso Bar as a prime venue for corporate events, providing a relaxed yet professional atmosphere for meetings, workshops, and team-building sessions.
Additionally, Brad is excited to expand the café's menu to include convenient picnic and takeaway options, allowing customers to enjoy Kevla Espresso Bar’s delicious food and drinks wherever they go.
The cafe's outdoor space is also something Brad is eager to maximize. With plans to host live music on Sundays. To make the space even more family-friendly, Brad is exploring the idea of adding an outdoor play area for children, ensuring that families can enjoy a leisurely meal while their little ones have fun in a safe and engaging environment.
If you are in Bowen head on over and say hi and enjoy the delicious offerings of Kevla Espresso Bar.

‍

Head over to Kevla Espresso Bar to try one of their locally loved coffees.
A hidden gem in Bowen.

‍

The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry (WCCI) is committed to supporting initiatives by the Whitsunday Regional Council that aim to strengthen our community, economy, and long-term liveability.

Recently, the Chamber invited its members to participate in the Council's consultation process for the proposed Corporate Plan 2025-2030. This Plan will serve as the Council's primary strategic document, guiding all future strategies, actions, and decisions for the region. The consultation sought feedback on key elements such as the proposed vision, mission, values, and focus areas related to the economy, community, environment, governance, and infrastructure.

The Chamber's submission to the consultation consolidates the views and insights of its members, reflecting the business community's perspective.

“Across Australia, communities are increasingly looking to local Councils for strong leadership, bold visions, and decisive actions. The Whitsundays is no different,” said Allan Milostic, President of the WCCI.

“The Chamber expects the Corporate Plan to incorporate community feedback, clearly outline priorities, set achievable timelines, and include transparent reporting on progress and accountability.”

Key Insights from the Chamber's Submission:
   • Community Connectivity: Uniting the region’s diverse districts—each with its own history, needs, and future possibilities—requires strong leadership and a clear, shared vision.
   • Secure Funding and Deliver: Prioritise efforts to secure state and federal funding for critical infrastructure, including roads, major projects, health, education, and land-based tourism.
   • Future-Proofing Infrastructure: A focus on long-term sustainability is needed to upgrade essential infrastructure such as roads, water, utilities, and waste management systems.
   • Transparency in Decision-Making and Procurement: The Chamber calls for greater openness around Council decisions and procurement processes to ensure investment in regional businesses and local economic growth.
“Effective public consultation can play a key role in shaping the Council's plans by reflecting the community's priorities and encouraging innovative ideas. The Chamber looks forward to participating in more meaningful engagement processes that actively address community concerns and incorporate local ideas into Council decisions,” said Chamber President, Allan Milostic.

The Chamber’s submission to the Council’s consultation is available on their website.

‍

The Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry Committee. L-R: Emily Harvey (Filby’s Motors), Secretary Megan Taylor (Kapow Interactive), President Allan Milostic (LiveLife Pharmacy Airlie Beach), Anthony Nobilia (Airlie Beach Executive Services),  Asher Telford (Whitsunday Charter Boat Industry Association and SeaLink), Treasurer Fiona Erquiaga (Smooth Sailing Finance Consulting). Absent: Jannah Baker (Scallywag Fabrication) 

‍

Whitsunday Regional Council Customer Service Centres and Libraries will close for the Christmas/New Year period at 4:45pm on Friday, 20 December, and will re-open at 8:15am on Monday, 6 January 2025.

For emergencies during this time, residents can contact our after-hours team on 1300 972 753.
Please note, our aquatic and waste facilities will also have adjusted operating hours. For full details, visit our website.

Wishing everyone a safe and joyful holiday season!

‍

As we head into the Christmas-New Year holiday season, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on my first nine months serving as Mayor since being elected in April.
 
To date it has been a journey filled with many challenges, some achievements, and plenty of invaluable lessons.
 
Stepping into the position of Mayor has been both an honour and a great responsibility. It has been a year of listening, learning, and laying the foundation for an exciting future.
 
From day one, my focus has been on hearing the concerns of our community and the numerous key stakeholder groups to understand the issues that impact of region.
 
From upgrading our key infrastructure to enhancing community services and attracting investment that will create more jobs for locals, every step forward has been possible because of your support and collaboration.
 
Our Whitsundays is more than just a place we live; it’s a vibrant and dynamic community with endless potential. As we look to the year ahead, there are exciting projects and initiatives on the horizon—opportunities that should create growth, prosperity, and greater connection for all.
 
As we celebrate this festive season, let us take the time to appreciate the spirit of togetherness that defines the Whitsundays. Let’s support our local businesses, embrace the beauty of our region, and share kindness with our neighbours.
 
From my family to yours, I wish you a joyful and safe Christmas filled with love, laughter, and gratitude. Here’s to a bright and prosperous 2025 ahead.

‍

Misogyny doesn’t always involve men. Boom – drop the mike! Misogyny is defined as a dislike of, contempt for, or prejudice against women.
 
It involves anything from unsolicited comments, favouring men at the expense of women, aggressive or intimidating behaviour, gender pay gap, ignoring or speaking over women, stealing (or rejecting) ideas from women, and limiting opportunities based on gender.
 
However, misogyny has wider reaching ramifications than the effect on the female employee. When women are excluded from upper management roles - and in some cases, industries and entire workplaces - it has a knock-on effect on customers, clients and stakeholders, as well as investors, suppliers and vendors. Male-dominated workplaces can appear less innovative and reluctant to, or incapable of, adapting. This can impact capacity to attract a greater range of good workers – especially Gen Z & Millennials. Then you’re stuck with an aging workforce about to retire taking all your IP and operational knowledge with them!
 
None of us want to admit our workplace may have traces of misogyny but let’s be real - it’s Australia - the home of sarcasm, sexist colloquialisms, and ‘take a spoonful of cement and harden up!’ banter. We’re proud of ‘keeping it real’ and the fact that “everyone can take a joke”. So what can we do about it? Call it out, don’t validate comments by laughing, be clear on workplace boundaries, report, create safe spaces.
 
Create better workplaces, be better employers.

‍

The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Aspirations Program (ATSIAP) is an initiative for high-achieving secondary Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students in Queensland state schools.
Bowen State High School’s Junior team consisting of Year 7 students Havana Power, Billie Grice, Sefton Power and Year 8 student Eli Prior travelled to Brisbane from the 25th to 28th November to take part in the state finals at the University of Queensland.
After two days of competition which included formal presentations, cultural knowledge trivia, improvisation drama activities and persuasive speaking they were successful in taking out 3rd place out of 21 schools.  
As part of the program, the students were also required to propose a project to the school administration team.
The students chose a sustainability project in the form of introducing a composting program in the school. The project would involve numerous staff and students to compost food waste from the tuckshop, Hospitality classes and Agriculture classes.
The program builds upon students' critical and creative thinking skills by providing opportunities to investigate solutions for real-world challenges. ATSIAP aims to raise students' expectations of themselves as learners and enhance post-school aspirations to include tertiary pathways.
Principal Mr Robert Harris was very proud of the students. “Havana, Billie, Sefton and Eli have worked really hard together and they should be very proud of how they have represented themselves and our school community.  
ATSIAP is a fun, yet challenging, program which allows student to enhance critical and creative thinking skills. It also encourages student to focus on their school attendance, academic engagement and to foster their tertiary aspirations.
A special thank you to Ms Pauline Neill, Mrs Raylene Van Veen and Mr Greg Prior for supporting the team throughout the challenge. I look forward to our student representing our school in the 2025 ASTIAP challenge.

Bowen State High School Highlights For December:

   • 100% QCE/QCIA attainment for our Year 12 students. 9 years in a row!

   • Junior ATSIAP team place 3rd out of 21 schools at the state finals.

   • Year 7 and 8 students graduate from Reading and Numeracy program.

   • Sixteen Year 6 students awarded a 2025 Scholarship.

   • Bowen High becomes a B Kinder school to spread kindness in 2025.

   • Year 10-12 students recognised at the Annual Senior Industry Awards.

   • 85% of Year 7-9 students achieve an A-C across all core subjects in Semester 2.

‍

Junior ATSIAP team Eli, Sefton, Havana and Billie, with staff Greg Prior and Raylene Van Veen who placed 3rd at the state finals.

Students proud of their achievements

A great month for Bowen State High School

The team at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre have been very busy this week with the Queensland school holidays now underway.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said there was a significant increase in visitor numbers as soon as the school holidays started.

“We had been averaging about 115 visitors per day for December, but we had 155 people come to the centre on Monday alone and that was at the start of the holidays,” shared Leanne.

“The rest of the week has continued to be busy - most of the visitors have been from Queensland and we have also noticed a lot of locals calling in to grab a copy of the 2025 Bowen calendar.”

The 13-month calendars are on sale at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre for just $20 each and feature the talented photography of both local photographer Jack Collins and renowned photographer Mark Fitz.

“This is the third year that we have produced the calendar, and it is always very popular,” added Leanne.

“The calendar for 2025 features beaches, the lighthouse, mango trees and other landmarks.”

The centre is open seven days a week – 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday and then 10am-3pm on the weekends and will be closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day

Contributed with thanks to Leanne Abernethy.

Bowen Tourism and Business team members Cindy Tonks and Glenn Womal with the 2025 Bowen calendar

Eris TestFlight1, the highly anticipated inaugural launch of Australia's first sovereign-made rocket, has officially received its launch permit approval and is now slated for liftoff from Gilmour Spaceport in Bowen.
While the precise launch date is still to be confirmed, the mission is expected to take place in mid-January, marking a historic milestone for the Australian space industry and Bowen.
This launch will not only be the first orbital attempt of an Australian-made rocket, but it also represents the first orbital launch from Australian soil in over half a century.
Developed and manufactured by Gilmour Space, Eris is the country's first rocket designed and built to carry satellites into space, a significant step in establishing Australia’s capabilities in the global space sector.
Eris TestFlight1 will be the maiden flight of the Eris Block 1 rocket, which utilises Gilmour Space’s proprietary hybrid rocket technology, a groundbreaking innovation that combines the simplicity of liquid propellant with the power of solid fuel.
For the local Whitsunday community, the Eris TestFlight1 launch is an exhilarating development that is sure to put Bowen firmly on the map as a key destination in space exploration history.
Bowen’s spaceport is Australia’s first licensed commercial orbital launch facility and offers access to Low Earth Orbits (LEO) with inclinations ranging from 20 to 65 degrees. This unique capability makes it an ideal site for launching various satellite missions.
The Gilmour Spaceport, located within the Abbot Point State Development Area, is a private facility that operates under the guidance of Gilmour Space.
The spaceport has received the support and blessing of the Juru traditional owners of the Bowen region, who have warmly welcomed the opportunity to ‘bridge Country to Sky.’
As Australia looks to cement its place in the global space economy, Bowen's role in this mission stands as a symbol of innovation, collaboration, and a new era for the nation's space exploration efforts.
With projects like Eris TestFlight1, Bowen is not only contributing to cutting-edge aerospace technology but also positioning itself at the forefront of a rapidly evolving industry.

‍

Eris TestFlight1 gets ready to launch

‍

Roger a beautiful Huntaway cross Shepherd, is looking to find the rest of his pack.
Roger is heartworm positive but his treatment is fully covered by Bowen and Collinsville Rescue.
Due to this, he needs a calm space to recover and a loving family to call his own.
Although he's smaller than a Kelpie, he's just as smart and clever as one, he is also extremely active so needs to go to a home where he can get lots of stimulation. Therefore, he would be perfect for a hobby farm or an exercise-loving family.
Roger loves relaxing with his people and is good with other dogs if introduced slowly!
‍

Rehoming fee: $400
Age: 2 years
Sex: Male
Breed: Huntaway X Shepherd
Other dogs: Yes but slow introduction

‍