Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, is calling on young people aged 25 and under across the region to step up, speak out, and have their voices delivered directly onto the floor of Federal Parliament. The local MP has officially signed up for the 2026 Raise Our Voice in Parliament campaign, a national initiative designed to amplify the ideas, ambitions, and unique perspectives of regional youth directly to the nation's decision-makers. This year, the campaign invites young people to submit a 90-second speech answering a critical question for the country: "What is one big issue shaping your future, and what is one meaningful action you want Parliament to take?" The winning speech from the electorate will be proudly read aloud by Mr Willcox in Canberra during Youth Voice in Parliament Week, running from 12 to 15 October 2026. “Last year, I had the immense privilege of standing up in the chamber to deliver an incredibly powerful speech by Wiremu Tairaki, a student from Proserpine State High School,” Mr Willcox said. “Wiremu spoke passionately about the distinct challenges facing country students: waking before sunrise, navigating flooded roads in the wet season, and missing out on face-to-face classes like physics and languages due to regional teacher shortages. He noted that while regional kids have the determination to defy limitations, gratitude for where we live shouldn't equate to limitation. The Raise Our Voice campaign has an exceptional track record of building civic pride and engagement; ninety-two per cent of previous participants state that taking part made them far more likely to engage with politics in the future. “Whether you are passionate about boosting local trade apprenticeships, improving youth mental health support, tackling regional housing costs, or creating more local job opportunities so you don't have to move away to the city, this is your golden opportunity to help shape Australia’s path forward,” Mr Willcox said. “I am honoured to amplify the voices of Dawson's future leaders, and I cannot wait to read what this year's cohort brings to the table.” Submissions for the 2026 campaign close on 7 August 2026. For more information, entry guidelines, and to submit a speech, visit https://raiseourvoiceaustralia.com
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By Cr Anne Baker As we celebrate NAIDOC Week, I would like to begin by acknowledging the Yuwi People, the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we live, work and gather. I pay my respects to Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples with us today. NAIDOC Week is an opportunity for all of us to come together in the spirit of respect, learning and celebration. It is a time to recognise the rich histories, cultures and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and to acknowledge the enduring connection to Country that has existed for tens of thousands of years. Here in the Mackay region, we are fortunate to live in a community where culture is shared through art, music, dance, storytelling and community events. These celebrations strengthen our understanding of one another and remind us that our diversity is one of our greatest strengths. This year’s NAIDOC Week theme, “50 Years of Deadly” marks a landmark half-century of the NAIDOC movement. It honours the resilience, cultural brilliance and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, celebrating the Elders, activists and communities who have carried the movement forward. I encourage everyone to take the opportunity to attend a local event, visit an exhibition, support our First Nations artists and learn more about the rich cultural heritage that is such an important part of our region. A heartfelt thank you to the organisers, volunteers, community leaders, artists and performers who have worked so hard to make this year’s NAIDOC Week celebrations possible. Your dedication creates opportunities for our community to come together in a spirit of unity and respect. NAIDOC Week is a reminder that when we listen to one another, celebrate our shared community and embrace opportunities to learn, we build stronger relationships and a more inclusive future for everyone. I wish everyone a safe, enjoyable and meaningful NAIDOC Week.
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Last Thursday night, July 2, Mackay Pet Rescue Inc. (MPRI) celebrated a milestone few could have imagined when a small group of passionate animal lovers first came together with a shared vision. Around 70 volunteers, foster carers, veterinarians, sponsors, supporters and friends gathered to mark the rescue's fifth anniversary, celebrating five years of rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming thousands of animals across the Mackay region. Opening the evening, MPRI President Janet Ambrose reflected on the organisation's beginnings, acknowledging the founding committee members whose commitment laid the foundations for what has become one of the region's dedicated volunteer-run animal rescues. Since its establishment, MPRI has provided care for thousands of abandoned, injured and neglected animals, including dumped kittens, stray cats, injured dogs, orphaned newborns and complex medical cases that may otherwise have had little chance of survival. The celebration also highlighted the financial reality behind every rescue. Treasurer Renae Gordon revealed the organisation has spent more than $713,000 caring for animals and operating the rescue over the past five years. Adoption fees generated approximately $426,000, leaving a funding gap of almost $287,000, made possible through fundraising, grants, sponsorships, local businesses, community organisations and generous public support. Guests were able to reflect on the rescue's journey through more than 60 photographs displayed throughout the room, showcasing memorable rescues, remarkable recoveries and the volunteers whose dedication has helped change thousands of lives. Veterinarian Dr David Lemmon entertained the audience with stories from his long career before speaking about exciting advances in the treatment of Chronic Kidney Disease in older cats, offering hope for improved quality of life and longer life expectancy for affected animals. One of the evening's highlights came during an open microphone session, where volunteers and supporters shared personal rescue stories and reflected on what MPRI has meant to them. Young supporter Alexander drew warm applause after describing his recent fundraiser, where almost 500 cupcakes were baked and sold at Whitsunday Anglican School with help from his family and friends from Uncle Bing's, raising valuable funds for rescue animals. Volunteers Nathan Ko, Makayla Holmes and Sam Vogrinec also shared their experiences, highlighting the rewarding nature of volunteering and the growing involvement of younger generations in animal welfare. A particularly moving tribute came from Kim Oliver, who attended despite recently undergoing surgery. She spoke of Dr Lemmon's compassion and generosity throughout his veterinary career, recalling the care he provided to countless animals, including helping save the life of a young horse. While the evening celebrated the achievements of the past five years, organisers said the rescue's mission is far from over. MPRI continues to work towards its long-term goal of establishing a dedicated shelter and sanctuary where abandoned, neglected and injured animals can receive the care they need while waiting for permanent homes. In a statement following the celebration, a representative from Mackay Pet Rescue Inc. thanked the volunteers, foster carers, veterinarians, sponsors, donors and supporters who have helped shape the organisation over the past five years. “Every rescue, every surgery, every bag of food and every second chance has been made possible by unpaid volunteers and a community that believes these animals are worth saving,” the statement read. “Because of you, thousands of animals have been given a second chance. Here's to the next five years of rescue, hope and compassion.” Mackay Pet Rescue Inc. celebrated its fifth anniversary, marking five years of volunteer-driven animal rescue while recognising the community support that has helped give thousands of abandoned and injured animals a second chance. Photos source: Mackay Pet Rescue Inc. (Facebook)
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Mackay Regional Council has confirmed there will be no changes to the Gordon White Library as part of its 2026–2027 Budget, following months of community discussion surrounding the facility’s future. The decision comes after strong feedback from local residents, with many community members voicing their desire to see the Gordon White Library remain open and continue providing services to the area. Council has acknowledged the community’s concerns and confirmed that library services will continue while further planning takes place. Council has allocated nearly $1 million in the 2026–2027 Budget to establish the new Northern Beaches Community Hub and its anchor tenant library, while maintaining existing services at Gordon White Library. As part of the next steps, a full review of council’s library services will be undertaken in the coming months. The review will examine future operating models, with a report expected to be presented to council in September or October. Mayor Greg Williamson said these models would explore options for how council could reduce impacts on future budgets. “Without any major staff increases, we will have to find efficiencies across our various library and other services,” he said. Mayor Williamson said council had heard residents’ concerns about a plan to repurpose the Gordon White Library as a community centre, with a limited library service. “We’ve had about 1200 feedback form responses and about 1500 signatures from locals on a petition, and those responses are mostly telling us that Gordon White is a valued meeting place for residents to socialise and support the early development of their children,” he said. “We have listened and reviewed all the feedback and we will prioritise the services residents value most in both the Gordon White Library and the Northern Beaches. “There will be no cut in library services in 2026-2027. Instead, there is additional funding of $950,000 in the budget to increase these services.” Council CEO Gerard Carlyon said council was working on strategies to manage significant cost pressures caused by rising depreciation, which had increased by $5.92M this year to $107.89M. “As council brings new assets online and continues to manage aging assets, depreciation costs continue to increase,” he said. “With that in mind, we have a Building Utilisation Project which is under way to review ways we can better use all of our existing staff accommodation buildings.” Mr Carlyon said council was still considering the sale of the freehold Northern Beaches Community Hall site once the Northern Beaches Community Hub was open. “We will also be looking at our office accommodation, with a plan to reduce council’s office buildings in the future to help drive down operating, maintenance and depreciation costs,” he said. Image for illustrative purposes only. Image source: Mackay Regional Council
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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.
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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.
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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
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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
Approaching their busiest time of the year, Whitsunday Mowers are more than ready to provide the region with a celebrated selection of high-quality equipment to cater to any, and every customer’s needs.
Wayne Drabsch of Whitsunday Mowers has been busily preparing a range of new products and lines over the past few weeks including Walker and Altoz mowers, whilst maintaining the business’ reputation as the largest Stihl dealership in the area.
With in-store demonstrations having been held periodically over the past six weeks, Wayne, and the rest of his team at Whitsunday Mowers are more than equipped with the knowledge and experience necessary to navigate the ins and out of each of their new machines.
“We’ve had the Walkers for about six weeks now,” shared Wayne.
“They’re a ride on mower mainly designed around catching grass and they’re a very compact machine, and they’re the ultimate for clean cutting - we’ve run a few demos with them to get our heads around the machine itself - that’s a big thing, and they’ve proven to be very popular with people looking at ride-ons,” Wayne added.
In order to ensure each customer’s needs are fulfilled in a timely manner, Whitsunday Mowers have extended their workshop hours throughout this busy period to run the rush ahead of the Christmas and New Year break, right up until Christmas Eve.
Looking ahead, Wayne and his team have exciting plans for the new year, with Friday marking a wonderful business milestone.
“We plan to keep growing the way we have been since we bought the business, and on the 20th of December we would have had the business for six years, and in that time, we have more than doubled the business from what it was when we bought it,” Wayne shared.
With their doors closed between the 24th of December until Monday the 6th of January, Whitsunday Mowers wishes their valued customers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Reef Cool are excited to introduce our dedicated team who are here to support you with all your air conditioning and commercial refrigeration needs. As a locally operated business, they pride themselves on being an integral part of this community.
Will Cameron – Branch Manager
Will relocated to the area from country NSW, bringing with him a wealth of Industry experience. Will’s leadership and commitment to excellence make him the perfect fit to lead the team. Will has settled into life in the Whitsunday region, quickly becoming a familiar face around town.
Seth – Technician
Seth is a born and bred local who completed his apprenticeship with Reef Cool. A skilled Tradesman, he is passionate about building strong relationships within the community and is eager to help meet the needs of both residential and commercial clients.
Jack – Technician
Jack has spent the last few years working from Hamilton Island and has recently moved to the mainland and is also living locally. Jack is an exceptional Tradesman who delivers top-notch service with expertise and care for every job.
Owen – Apprentice
Owen is Reef Cool’s enthusiastic new apprentice who has recently left school and is ready to excel in his chosen career.
Chris and Renae – Business Owners
As proud regionally based business owners, Chris and Renae are deeply committed to supporting local communities.
For over 20 years they have provided exceptional service and high-quality solutions for their regional clients. Being a family-owned business means that they understand and value every customer and are always ready to go above and beyond to meet their needs.
Reef Cool continue to be your local Daikin Specialist Dealer. Whether it is a new installation, regular maintenance, or repairs, they have you covered with the reliability and efficiency Daikin is known for.
In addition to their air conditioning expertise, Reef Cool also offer commercial refrigeration, scheduled preventative maintenance services, and comprehensive after-hours breakdown services. This ensures that their clients have the support they need to keep their cooling assets running smoothly.
Thank you for supporting your local team at Reef Cool!
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