Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Local tourism operators are expressing concern toward troubling times ahead, with the federal government’s new visa restrictions set to shrink the backpacker workforce that drives seasonal operations. The Federal Government’s proposed cuts to Working Holiday Visas have raised concerns across two of the Whitsundays’ biggest industries. Bowen farmers warned that fewer backpackers could leave crops unpicked, and now tourism leaders in Airlie Beach have added that the same cuts could leave local businesses scrambling to find workers that aren’t there. At Airlie Beach’s Heart of the Great Barrier Reef sign, Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth and Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins spoke about what the proposed changes could mean for a region that relies heavily on tourism. “We can't have Airlie Beach named Australia's top tourism town in the small category and then have the knees cut out from us by federal policy,” Tim said. The proposed changes form part of the Federal Government’s effort to reduce migration, a topic that has been of hot debate by all three parties that Mayor Ry Collins believes the working holiday visas should be separated from. “Obviously the federal government is really coming in with broad brushstrokes to try and address the publicly perceived issue around net overseas migration (NOM),” said Mayor Collins. “Some of the dialogue I heard last week in Canberra was actually taking that working holiday maker class completely out of the NOM calculation. “I think that's a fair and reasonable way that they can make the numbers look as good as they want but it won't affect the actual number of workers that are here to support our industries.” The new restrictions look to cut the second-year extension on Working Holiday Visas from 57,000 to 45,000 slots, and 3rd year extension from 31,000 to just 5,000. According to Tourism Whitsundays, the Whitsundays hosts about 3,500 backpacker workers at any given time of the year. “I think for regions like the Whitsunday’s unemployment rate is lower than the national average by 0.9%, so at a 3.5% unemployment rate, we just don't have the workforce there that can pick up these roles that the working holidaymaker delivers for our communities,” Tim said. According to figures released by Tourism Whitsundays, in the year ending March 2026, domestic visitors spent $959.1 million in the region and international visitors spent a further $271.8 million. This spending was made possible by the abundance of workers delivering those experiences. “[Working holidaymakers] do a terrific job already in delivering world-class experiences, particularly here in the Whitsundays,” said Mayor Collins. “We do see working holidaymakers really take up that mantle, particularly in areas like customer service roles, hospitality roles, housekeeping roles... “What we're asking for is that we can stay strong as an entire tourism industry.” Having just returned from Canberra, the pair said raising regional and statewide voices is crucial to persuading the Federal Government to reconsider how the proposed restrictions would apply. “And then at a federal level, obviously through our federal member Andrew Wilcox, but we've also engaged with the members of the Labor Party around that as well. “But unfortunately it's starting to feel like a number of issues that we're campaigning on…along with things like disaster recovery funding arrangements which was one we linked into last week.” Photo caption: Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins and CEO of Tourism Whitsundays, Tim Booth. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville
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In this world of AI and other technological advancements, you don’t want to be the person who wanders around the office like a big old clumsy Tyrannosaurus Rex bumping into all the youngsters and stepping on their laptops and other devices. It’s one of the challenges of our times; getting the balance right in business in a world that is increasingly controlled by AI, robotics and a rapidly changing IT environment. I remember, some years ago now, when older family members had refused to embrace computer technology and mobile phones etc. They were really left behind and felt excluded in a world that had moved ahead without them. I’ve got a 19-year-old son who doesn’t have to think about it. Current and evolving technology is part of his life and, like others in his age group, he is completely at ease with something that is just part of his make-up and comprehension of the world around him. The trap you can fall into is letting the kids do all the IT stuff for you. My son set up our old TV with all the streaming services etc, which was the easy option for me, but I find it’s important to get involved and do it yourself otherwise everything will move ahead and you won’t be able to do things for yourself. But I am still stuck in some of the old ways. If I am ordering a takeaway meal I still ring the restaurant and go and pick it up. The old T-Rex wanders into the Thai or Indian joint and picks up his plastic bag of goodies, pays, and drives home. There aren’t many of us left. Uber Eats baby. Everyone has embraced it. My wife and daughter were having dinner together in Brisbane recently and my daughter noticed that her stockings or tights had “run” or a ladder in them. My wife suggested she jump in the car and drive to a nearby supermarket and get another pair. But my daughter ordered a new pair to be delivered to the restaurant by Uber. They were there in a jiffy and the night continued without the pesky interruption of having to leave the restaurant to buy them. It’s a great example of the modern world making things easier and how many of us need to ensure we are adjusting and understanding how things can now be done. There is another side to the coin, however. People have told me that I should get AI to write my columns. They say I could give it some examples of columns I have written and give it an idea for a new column and tell it to knock out 600 words on my chosen topic in my style of writing. It’s something I would never do. Apart from the fact that it would somehow seem like I was cheating, it would also not be authentic. I feel that however boring or pedestrian my stories and comments are, at least they are mine. They have come from my noggin, my experiences. It is my take on the world, not something that has been cobbled together by artificial intelligence. It’s similar in the world of real estate and, I’m sure, business generally. You need to embrace the technology, use it when it creates a better service, a superior experience for buyers and a better result for sellers. But there is still a place for picking up the phone and calling buyers, following up from open homes, doing the hard work that needs to be done as an agent. In a world of AI, robotics and Uber Everything the human element, the person-to-person connection still needs to happen to deliver good service and create the best result for clients.
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Maisy is a beautiful little soul who seems to understand that the very best place in the world is right beside someone she loves. She is affectionate, gentle, social and wonderfully trusting. She loves curling up on a welcoming lap, snuggling into your arms and settling close enough to make you feel as though you have always belonged together. Maisy is generous with her purrs, her cuddles and her sweet little air biscuits. She even places her paw in your hand as if to say, “I choose you.” But this gorgeous girl is not only a champion snuggler. Maisy is playful, curious and full of kitten joy. She loves exploring her toys, chasing anything that moves and turning ordinary moments into entertainment. She will happily amuse herself, but everything is even more fun when her favourite person joins in. She has that perfect combination of affection and personality, soft and loving when it is time to cuddle, and playful and bright when it is time for fun. Maisy will bring warmth to your home, companionship to your days and a little paw to hold whenever you need it. If you are looking for a kitten who will play with you, curl up with you and love being part of your life, Maisy may be the girl you have been waiting for. Maisy has been desexed, microchipped, received her first vaccination, been wormed and is litter trained. She is ready to begin her beautiful new life as a much-loved indoor companion. To arrange a meet and greet with Maisy, please call Ros on 0403 814 318.
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Tarren McAuley, Web Director and Co-Owner I remember when those AI posters started popping up – the first one looked kinda different. By the end of the week, when I’d seen 30 of them, I was much less enamoured + actively scrolled past anything that had that telltale paint smear style font. It’s not that the quality had gotten any worse between me seeing that first one + when I was sick of them by the 30th. But it was no longer novel or original. I think AI is especially susceptible to this because as soon as someone discovers a winning formula, everyone else jumps on the bandwagon, but because everyone is getting similar outputs, it gets old – quick. I think brands can fall into a similar trap. Humans are always looking for inspiration + when seeking it out, where better to look than the other players in your field. If you’re a tech company, you’re going to look at Samsung, Apple + the like. But when that happens too much, you get a feedback loop of samey-ness. For me, this is best exemplified by airline logos. Look at Qantas + Virgin, probably the two biggest brands in Australia. Both use a red plane-like icon, w/ their logo in big letters next to it. Bit cherry picked but even the other big players’ logos are similar - Emirates uses mainly red + shakes it up by having a slightly more exotic font. Jetstar ditches the red for orange + has their icon at the end but it has similar visual markers. This isn’t unique to logos, like w/ the poster example earlier – it could be your social tiles, your website or even your company email sig. Whatever it is, if you wake up one day + notice that the other businesses around you are looking a bit too similar, that should be your sign to start looking at a rebrand to shake off the rust + re-establish your unique identity. You know, until the cycle repeats again!
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Men's Grief Support Group facilitators Joshua Hart, Rod Francisco and Nick Bennett are encouraging local men to seek support as the peer-led group prepares to resume in September. Photo source: Shutterstock
By Chelsea Ravizza
When three Mackay men launched the region's first dedicated Men's Grief Support Group earlier this year, they knew building trust would take time. Founded in February by Rod Francisco, Joshua Hart and Nick Bennett, the peer-led initiative was created to provide a safe, confidential space where men could talk openly about grief and loss without judgement.
Several months on, Mr Francisco said the response from the community has confirmed the need for such a space, even if many men remain hesitant to take the first step.
"The response has been notable, but men are appearing to be reluctant to engage, which is not surprising," he said.
"We have been contacted by men themselves, partners, families but there is a reluctance or apprehension on attending."
Rather than seeing the hesitation as a setback, Mr Francisco said it reflects the challenges many men face when it comes to grief and asking for support.
"There's a mix of issues and one of the worst is that men get told they don't grieve like women," he said.
"Grief is not a gender thing as we all grieve in different ways, and we all have different types of loss so it is about breaking down those barriers and creating a space where men can just chill and express themselves anyway they want. Sometimes just knowing you are not alone in this is all someone might need."
While the group itself has only recently begun meeting, Mr Francisco said conversations outside the sessions have reinforced why the initiative matters.
"The moment when someone says 'this is needed' in a softer voice followed by silence. Then you know you are touching in the right places for the support this group can provide."
He believes attitudes towards men discussing grief and vulnerability are beginning to shift, particularly in regional communities where expectations around masculinity can often discourage emotional openness.
"There is a perception of immutable stoic strength in men in the regions when a lot of them, in my experience, just want an opportunity to be vulnerable and to be able to express themselves."
Facilitating the group has also been a personal journey for Mr Francisco, who said one of the biggest lessons has been gaining a deeper understanding of his own grief.
With sessions set to resume in September, he hopes men who may be struggling silently will consider reaching out before deciding whether to attend.
"Drop us a note when we post the session details," he said.
"We can always have a chat beforehand so there is no need to go in cold."
The Men's Grief Support Group is a free, peer-led initiative facilitated by volunteers and offers a confidential space for men to share, listen or simply be around others who understand the experience of loss. To find out more, contact Mr Francisco via emailing rod_francisco@hotmail.com.
Keynote Speaker Delivers Powerful Message At DBI Literary Dinner
Few people have the ability to silence a room full of hundreds of people. It takes skill, but more importantly, it takes a story. All eyes and attention were on Jelena Dokic last Friday night at the DBI Literary Dinner hosted at the MECC, as she did exactly that.
As she spoke of a little girl who fell in love with tennis after her father handed her a racket at just six years old, to how she quickly rose to fame as one of Australia's top tennis players, she also shared the heartbreaking reality that beyond the courts, she endured years of extreme physical and emotional abuse at the hands of her father.
Ms Dokic addressed guests as the keynote speaker at the Whitsunday Voices Literary Dinner, sharing how she once felt powerless but has since turned her past into purpose. Through sharing her story and writing books, she now encourages not only the next generation, but anyone with a story, to find their voice and help end domestic and family violence.
“My biggest highlight and achievement was finding my voice through sharing my story,” she said.
“It literally saved my life.
“I would not be here today if I didn't find my voice and share my story.”
Today, Ms Dokic said she uses that voice “to call out injustice, to advocate for change,” describing her journey as one from “victim to survivor, but most importantly, now a thriver.”
Earlier that day, Ms Dokic was one of 17 authors who inspired students through author talks, workshops and presentations as part of the 2026 Whitsunday Voices Youth Literature Festival at Whitsunday Anglican School.
Now in its 22nd year, the festival welcomed more than 7,000 students, teachers and supporters from more than 80 schools across Central Queensland, cementing its place as one of the country's leading youth literacy events.
Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson said Whitsunday Voices had become “one of Australia's icon literacy events” and highlighted the importance of reading and storytelling in an increasingly digital world.
“Literature and literacy is all about experiences... it's about a range of emotions, and what humans can actually experience,” he said.
“AI can put words together, they can't give the lived experience.”
Mayor Williamson said the event continued to thrive because of its lasting impact on young people, and noted that it was, “exceptionally important to get kids involved in reading and literature at any stage in their life.”
Isaac Regional Council Mayor Kelly Vea Vea said the festival ensured students from rural and remote communities had the same opportunities as those in larger centres.
“Everyone's got a story to tell,” she said.
“Their story is important.”
She said events like Whitsunday Voices “really do break down the barriers” by creating access to literature and empowering students to contribute their own stories.
One student travelled six hours from his remote rural hometown to attend the Literature Festival, an opportunity that would otherwise be unavailable as he completes his education through online learning. Despite the distance, he enjoys the lifestyle of his hometown and values the chance to connect with fellow students and teachers through initiatives such as The Winchester Foundation.
The foundation provides funding and support for rural students, helping bridge the gap between location and opportunity by enabling them to participate in experiences such as the Whitsunday Voices Youth Literature Festival.
Festival Manager Liz Russell said bringing the festival together was a year-long effort supported by a dedicated team and the Whitsunday Anglican School community.
“It's a big job that takes us about a year to put together,” she said.
Ms Russell said students were leaving the festival with experiences they could only gain through Whitsunday Voices, with authors, illustrators and presenters inspiring creativity across every age group.
“What they're taking away back to their classrooms... is something that they can only get here.”
A record crowd of 500 guests attended the DBI Literary Dinner, where Ms Russell described the turnout as another “major milestone” for the much-loved festival.
Photo supplied
Fresh opportunities are now available for community groups, businesses and creatives with bold ideas to bring Mackay's City Centre or Waterfront to life, as council opens applications for its Make Your Place Mackay Waterfront Grant Program.
Grants of up to $7,500 are available to help deliver community-focused projects and activations that transform public spaces.
The program supports projects and activities that connect the local community and create vibrant, welcoming places where people want to gather, visit and spend time.
Mayor Greg Williamson said the placemaking grants were designed to help turn creative ideas into projects that enhance the city's public spaces and strengthen community connections.
“We know some of the best community initiatives start with a simple idea,” Mayor Williamson said.
“The Make Your Place grants give local organisations, businesses and community members the opportunity to bring those ideas to life and create experiences that make our City Centre and Waterfront even more vibrant and welcoming,” he said
Under the program, grants of up to $7500 are available for larger community-led projects, while microgrants of up to $1500 are available for smaller pop-up activities and activations.
Previous initiatives have included community events, live entertainment, creative activations and other projects that add vibrancy to the precinct.
In addition to the Make Your Place grants, council is also offering two complementary funding programs:
Together, the three grants support local businesses, organisations and community members to create vibrant, safe and welcoming places while enhancing Mackay’s City Centre and Waterfront precinct.
Applications for all grants are now open and close at 11.59pm on August 28th.
Application forms, guidelines and eligibility information are available at mackaywaterfront.com.au.
Applicants are encouraged to discuss their project with the Mackay City and Waterfront team prior to submitting an application.
To help applicants prepare competitive submissions, the Mackay City and Waterfront team will host a day of community briefing sessions.
Date: Thursday 30th July
Venue: Aligned Corporate Residences – Level 1 Conference Room, Macalister Street, Mackay.
Session times: 7.30am, 8am, 12.30pm and 2.30pm.
The team will also be available throughout the day from 7.30am to 4.30pm to answer questions and provide guidance.
Nigel visiting The Mackay City Rollers who received $10’000 from The Gambling Community Benefit Fund
As July wraps up and we head into August, I can’t quite believe we’re already in the last month of winter.
The past month has been a busy one, from Parliament sittings and community events to school visits and my latest mobile office at Caneland. Every conversation helps keep me connected with what matters most to our community.
July also saw Mackay welcome two Ministers and both the Premier and Deputy Premier, with a strong focus on delivering local projects and backing our region's future.
One announcement that generated plenty of discussion is the planned upgrade to the Golf Links Road and Bucasia Road intersection. After extensive community consultation, the upgrade will include intelligent traffic signals with AI technology, additionalturning lanes and an additional left-turn lane on Golf Links Road, designed to reduce congestion and improve traffic flow through one of Mackay's busiest intersections.
Alongside Glen Kelly MP, I was also pleased to help bring the Parliamentary Primary Industries Committee to Mackay. It was an important opportunity for local producers and industry representatives to have their voices heard without travelling to Brisbane, ensuring the committee could hear directly about the opportunities and challenges facing our region.
Public submissions on the proposed Circuit Breaker program have now closed. The feedback received will help inform the next stage of the proposal, which aims to introduce a court-ordered youth rehabilitation program in a rural setting, helping turn young lives around while improving community safety. Alongside this, we’ve strengthened youth justice laws, including the new "Breach Bail, Go to Jail" legislation.
One of my election commitments is also nearing completion, with the new shed for the Mackay Comedy Players now receiving its finishing touches. I'm looking forward to seeing the group make full use of the new facility.
It has also been great to get out and visit some of the latest recipients of the Gambling Community Benefit Fund. Every organisation has a different story, and it's always rewarding to see how these grants are being put to good use—whether it's new equipment, upgraded facilities or helping local volunteers continue the fantastic work they do in our community.
Social media has been keeping me on my toes lately too. I threw the decision over to Facebook on whether I should wear a kilt to the Scottish Bluewater Fling... and the people spoke! Before I knew it, I was kilted up and joining in the fun. Safe to say it was one of the highlights of the month.
Looking ahead, National Pyjama Day is on Friday 1 August and I'll be hosting a Pyjama Day fundraiser at the Memorial Swimming Centre. Pull on your favourite PJs, enjoy a pie and a bowl of soup, and help raise funds for The Pyjama Foundation, supporting children in foster care through learning and mentoring.
Schools across Mackay will also be taking part in National Schools Tree Day, and I'll be joining local students to plant a tree and help leave a positive mark on our environment.
Another milestone on the calendar is Victoria Park State School's Centenary Celebration. Reaching 100 years is an incredible achievement, and I look forward to celebrating the school's rich history alongside students, staff, families and the wider community.
As always, thank you to everyone who has stopped for a chat over the past month. Whether it's at a community event, school visit or mobile office, I appreciate hearing your ideas and concerns and look forward to catching up with many more of you over the coming weeks.
Left to Right – Operations Manager, CASA Mackay Kim Bishop; Board Chair, CASA Mackay Robert Ryan; Deputy Mayor, Mackay Regional Council Karen May; and General Manager, CASA Mackay Will Stafford. Photo Credit: Hannah McNamara.
A growing demand for housing and homelessness support has prompted CASA Mackay to take a significant step forward, moving into new premises designed to strengthen its ability to support the community.
Deputy Mayor Karen May was among many supporters and community representatives in attendance as CASA Mackay celebrated the milestone, which follows significant growth for the organisation, including an expanded service offering, increased staffing, a move to larger premises and the launch of a refreshed brand.
Founded in 1983, CASA Mackay has grown into a Tier 3 Community Housing Provider, delivering a broad range of housing and support services.
General Manager William Stafford said the new premises marked an important step forward following significant work behind the scenes.
"Expanding our services and growing our team has better equipped us to provide the right assistance, at the right time, for the people who rely on us.
“We’ve done a lot of work in the last 2.5 years behind the scenes, strengthening service delivery, expanding staff numbers, and investing in our services,” he said.
“We came to the point where there was a real disparity between the professionalism and the number of our staff, the seriousness of our mission, and the space that we were working out of. So, it was time for a move.”
The new premises is said to be double the size of CASA Mackay’s previous location, including dedicated reception and intake areas, a conference room and centralised storage for furniture and goods distributed to people in need.
“We wanted a space where services could come together. We want to be a hub for planning and building, and collaborating in the Mackay community around housing,” Mr Stafford said.
The location is expected to improve the organisation’s efficiency when distributing support and goods to people establishing a tenancy or experiencing cost-of-living pressures.
“Having a centralised storage area really helps with asset management and improving efficiency for our clients,” he said.
The larger premises also provides room for CASA Mackay to grow, with the organisation open to co-locating with smaller services that may not have their own space.
“We take very seriously the mission of growing to meet the growing challenge of homelessness.”
Mr Stafford said CASA Mackay continued to see the effects of low vacancy rates, cost-of-living pressures and issues including health, mental health, substance abuse, family breakdown and domestic violence.
Board Chair Robert Ryan said the organisation’s focus remained on building a strong and sustainable future.
“As a Board, our responsibility is to ensure CASA remains strong and sustainable so we can continue supporting our community as its needs evolve,” Mr Ryan said.
“We're proud of what our team has achieved, and we'll continue making decisions that ensure CASA can support the community for many years to come.”
Anyone seeking support, or wanting to learn more about CASA Mackay's services, can visit the team at their new office at 1/38 Wellington Street or contact the team on 4951 4299.
Amanda with local changemakers Antoinette and Rebecca
Contributed by the office of Amanda Camm MP, Member for Whitsunday
The strength of the Northern Beaches community comes from the people who quietly give their time to help others.
Across the community, volunteers are creating opportunities for people to connect, stay active and feel part of their community.
They are the people setting up marquees before an event, cooking at the community barbecue, coaching junior sport, checking on neighbours, organising playgroups and creating activities for residents of all ages.
Local organisations including the Mackay Northern Beaches Lions Club, Rotary, Neighbourhood Watch and the Northern Beaches Community Network all play an important part in bringing people together.
The same community spirit can be seen through our sporting clubs, Seaview parkrun, local playgroups, seniors’ activities and groups such as the Bucasia Beach Quilters.
Much of this work happens quietly and without recognition, but its impact is felt throughout the community.
As the Northern Beaches continues to grow, these local connections become even more important. A strong community is not measured only by the infrastructure it has, but by the way its people look out for one another and work together.
I want to thank every volunteer who gives their time, shares their skills or simply puts up their hand when help is needed.
Whether you contribute every week or assist with one community event each year, your efforts make the Northern Beaches a more welcoming and connected place to live.
Our volunteers truly are the local legends of the Northern Beaches-and our community is stronger because of them.
Amanda Camm MP, Member for Whitsunday, is encouraging Northern Beaches residents to attend the next community meeting on Tuesday 28th July, from 5.30pm to 7pm at Club Northern Beaches. The meeting will provide an opportunity to connect with others, discuss local priorities and share ideas for the growing community.
Photo source: Broken Ballerina Inc
A generous community partnership has helped provide a fresh start for a Mackay woman rebuilding her life after escaping domestic and family violence.
Broken Ballerina Inc (BBI), a local not-for-profit organisation supporting victim survivors of domestic and family violence, recently celebrated a special milestone after handing over the keys to a fully refurbished vehicle to a courageous survivor.
The car was donated through the efforts of Car Resurrection Ministry, with volunteers dedicating their time to restoring the vehicle and preparing it for its new owner. The generous donation also included one month’s insurance and six months’ registration, helping remove another barrier for a woman beginning the next chapter of her life.
BBI thanked Hippie and Eric from Car Resurrection Ministry, along with the volunteers involved in the refurbishment, and acknowledged the support of Church of Christ, who chose BBI as the recipient of this meaningful initiative.
For BBI founder Jules Thompson and supporters, the moment carried a personal significance, recognising the impact practical support can have during difficult times.
“To be able to gift a car to a victim/survivor, was a very special moment indeed, as I was a single mum, without a car, once upon a time.”
The organisations hope the initiative will continue to grow, with more vehicles planned to support victim survivors and women in need.
Car Resurrection Ministry is currently seeking assistance to secure a car hoist to continue their valuable work.
Orange Sky Mackay has officially unveiled its upgraded service space, offering a safe place to access free laundry services and connection. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Orange Sky homelessness support has celebrated the completion of major upgrades to its Mackay service, supported by $40,000 in grants from Mackay Regional Council and the Mackay Community Fund, at an official grand opening held on Wednesday22nd July
Part of the funding was secured by Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP for the facility and its awning, providing a sheltered space where people can stay protected from the rain and sun.
The upgrades included a new patio, giving users a clean, safe and sheltered space to sit, connect and chat while accessing Orange Sky’s free laundry service.
Orange Sky has supported the Mackay community for nine years, with volunteers completing 13,561 washes and providing 24,632 hours of connection and non-judgemental conversation since the service launched.
“It just takes a lot of their anxiety away that they know that they can come and get their washing done in a friendly and safe environment,” Mr Willcox said.
“They leave here and feel really good about themselves, and that makes me feel good. This is why I support initiatives like this, and do what I do.”
Orange Sky Co-Founder Nicholas Marchesi said demand for the service had grown over the past year.
“To now have an amazing location alongside the Girl Guides, where people can sit down, put their washing on under shelter, is really a massive step forward in us delivering our service,” he said.
For service user Brendan, the service provides practical support during a difficult period.
“Washing your clothes at a laundromat is expensive, and the fact that this exists really eases that section of my life. The people here are great,” he said.
The Bowen Delta Rural Fire Brigade are banding together to repair vandalism to their station following an incident of theft that is thought to have occurred in the early hours of Friday 17th July. As well as damage to the property, a self-funded ATV was stolen destroyed, later discovered abandoned near Bowen River.
Nick Ianni. Photo sourced: Taylor’s Property Specialists.
Growing up on a cattle station in country New South Wales taught Nick Ianni the value of hard work. Now based in the Whitsundays, he is applying that same mindset to his role with Taylors Property Specialists.
Working as both a sales agent and personal assistant to principal Rob Taylor, Nick divides his time between helping clients navigate the buying and selling process, managing contracts and paperwork, and continuing to build his own client base.
“We genuinely take the time to help our clients as much as possible, supporting them from their first enquiry right through to settlement,” Nick said.
“We also try to go beyond that by maintaining the relationship well after the sale has been completed.”
Nick’s interest in real estate began soon after leaving school. He completed his New South Wales real estate qualifications in 2020 before spending time working on his family’s cattle station in regional New South Wales.
He relocated to the Whitsundays in 2025 to join the Taylors team, bringing with him a strong country work ethic and quickly embracing the local property market.
While every home is different, Nick believes it is the lifestyle that truly sets Whitsunday properties apart.
“Every property here has its own unique characteristics and features, but they all offer some part of the Whitsunday lifestyle,” he said.
“Whether you have sweeping sea views or you’re only a few minutes from town but surrounded by nature and privacy, that variety is what makes property in the Whitsundays so special.”
Rob Harris Principal, Aunty Jo Nicol, Mary-Ellen Kusu, Dastan Kusu, Jack Tanna, Kala Auda and Abbie Paul. Photo supplied
Bowen State High School wrapped up its NAIDOC Week celebrations with a day of culture, community and connection, bringing students and their families together to mark the 50 years of deadly.
The day began with an official ceremony featuring a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony led by Uncle Jimmy Gaston, followed by a contemporary cultural dance performed by students.
A flag-raising ceremony and speeches from Havana Power and Kala Auda were followed by Principal Robert Harris' address, where he reflected on this year's theme, 50 years of deadly.
The school then recognised students whose achievements embodied the spirit of this year's NAIDOC Week celebrations. Principal Robert Harris presented the Aunty Cecelia Upkett Academic Achievement Awards to Dastan Kusu and Mary-Ellen Kusu.
Then newly appointed Police Liaison Officer Abbie Paul delivered a heartfelt speech about her father, Darryl Paul, before presenting the citizenship awards named in his honour to Jack Tanna and Kala Auda.
The school carried the celebration into the rest of the day, with students taking part in a range of cultural activities.
They tried coconut palm weaving and scratch art, learnt about influential Indigenous Australians, played traditional Indigenous games and joined dance workshops. Students and staff also shared Torres Strait Islander food and NAIDOC cake to round out the day's festivities.
By Glenda Brown, President Creative Connections Whitsunday
When you buy a piece of local art, you're taking home much more than something beautiful. You're supporting a local artist, celebrating creativity, and helping build a vibrant arts community that benefits everyone.
Across the Whitsundays, artists capture the landscapes, wildlife, people and stories that make our region unique. Through painting, ceramics, sculpture, photography, textiles, glass and other mediums, they create works that reflect a genuine sense of place -- something no mass-produced souvenir can replicate.
At any one time, around 30 artists exhibit their work at the Creative Connections Whitsundays Community Gallery (Proserpine) and Creative Space at the Bendigo Community Bank (Cannonvale).
Each artwork represents countless hours of creativity, skill and dedication. For artists, every sale is not only financial support but also recognition that their work has connected with someone and found a new home.
Supporting local artists also has a wider impact on our community. Since the Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibitions in 2024 and 2025, and the opening of the Community Gallery, more than $20,000 has been paid directly to local artists. That'smoney flowing back into our community, helping artists keep creating.
With more than one million visitors travelling to the Whitsundays each year, original local artwork provides an authentic connection to the region. Whether it's a painting inspired by the reef, a handcrafted ceramic piece, or a striking photograph, each work carries a story and a lasting memory of this special place.
Community galleries, exhibitions, markets, and retailers make these connections possible. They provide opportunities for artists to share their work, for visitors and locals to discover new talent, and for creativity to become part of everyday community life.
Whether you're purchasing your first artwork, adding to a collection, or simply visiting an exhibition, supporting local artists is an investment in the creative future of our region—one that enriches our community for years to come.
Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibition
When:
Where: Whitsunday Sailing Club, Airlie Beach
Discover 85 outstanding artworks by 66 artists, each exploring the theme, Beyond Beauty. Now in its third year, the exhibition has become one of the cultural highlights of the Festival. Creative Connections Whitsundays gratefully acknowledges the Whitsunday Sailing Club for hosting the exhibition and thanks our generous sponsors for helping make this annual celebration of regional arts possible.
Community Gallery
Where: 192 Main Street, Proserpine
When: Monday to Friday: 9.00am – 4.00pm and Saturday: 9.00am – 1.00pm
The gallery is not a permanent collection. Each month, exhibiting artists refresh their displays and new artists join the gallery. Every visit offers something different to discover. Thanks to the Whitsunday Regional Council for helping facilitate the Community Art Gallery.
Community Creative Space
Where: Bendigo Community Bank branch, Whitsunday Plaza, Cannonvale
When: Monday to Friday, 9:30am–4:00pm (closed 1pm–2pm for lunch)
Some artworks tell a story through paint. Others tell a story through the people who create them.
One of the finalists in this year's Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibition is TARTS Tree, a remarkable collaborative textile artwork created by the Textile Arts (TARTS) group from Hideaway Bay.
More than 20 artists contributed to the piece, each bringing their own creativity, skills and personality to the finished work.
The TARTS have been meeting for more than 15 years, bringing together Whitsunday locals and seasonal residents who share a passion for textile art. Their tree is a celebration of both nature and community.
The artwork began as a simple sketch of a stylised tree before being transferred onto stabilised wool. From there, every member played a part. Leaves, birds and insects were individually wet felted, embroidered, and stitched by hand. The sky and bushland were dry felted into the background, while the tree trunk and branches were carefully constructed using donated wool from Proserpine Chat and Patch. Even the hanging system became a community effort, with a local hairdresser creating the macramé hanger and a local woodworker crafting the timber end caps.
The Brush Turkeys, lovingly shaped by hand, add another distinctly Australian touch.
TARTS Tree is a reminder that creativity has the power to connect people. It represents countless hours of shared conversation, laughter, learning and craftsmanship, resulting in an artwork that is far greater than the sum of its parts.
See TARTS Tree and more than 80 finalist artworks at the Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibition.
Celebrating local creativity, connection, and community
Whitsundays Writers Festival
Richard Evans
Festival Director and President
hello@whitsundayswriters.com
Tickets are selling fast for the 2026 Whitsundays Writers Festival, 13 September! Secure your spot now at whitsundayswriters.com/2026-programme-speakers
Creative Connections Whitsunday
Glenda Brown
President
info@creativeconnectionwhitsunday.com
Creative Connections Whitsundays supports and celebrates the region's arts community by creating opportunities for artists to connect, exhibit, learn, and thrive through partnerships, cultural events, and creative programs.
Get in touch!
If you would like to submit a poem, creative writing piece, profile suggestion, event information, or share your creative story, please contact hello@whitsundayswriters.com
Young Arab cross Gibbs is ready to find the loving forever home he deserves. Photo sourced: Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue.
For a young dog like Gibbs, the future is full of possibilities. All this 12-month-old Arab cross needs is someone willing to give him a chance at a happy home.
Friendly by nature and eager to make you like him, Gibbs is still discovering the world. Like many young dogs, he's finding his way, figuring it out as he goes. The most valuable thing for him is a loving home with patience, guidance and a consistent routine will help him grow into a confident and loyal companion.
Quiet and humble at first, Gibbs doesn't take long to come out of his shell. Once playtime begins, his fun-loving personality shines through, and his photogenic face is sure to win over anyone lucky enough to meet him.
Desexed, vaccinated and up to date with his veterinary care, Gibbs is ready to start the next chapter of his life.
If you think Gibbs could be the perfect addition to your family, contact Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue by direct messaging your name, phone number and "Gibbs" to begin the adoption process.
Project Leaders Dr Lindsay Simpson and Dr Rachael Smith. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville.
The Whitsunday Conservation Council recently gave the community its first look at an ambitious new digital trail designed to help visitors discover the hidden stories of the Whitsundays, at a Green Drinks evening event.
The evening brought community members together for a presentation on the Heart of the Reef Discovery Trail, with project leaders Dr Lindsay Simpson and Dr Rachael Smith outlining how the interactive experience will connect people with the region's natural and cultural landscapes.
“It was so good to get it out there and we know we've been working on it behind the scenes for so long,” Dr Simpson said.
“To get all the feedback that we did tonight was excellent.”
Designed as a self-guided digital experience, the Heart of the Reef Discovery Trail will give tourists and locals alike the chance to look deeper into the scenery, revealing the stories that make the area so special.
Through QR codes placed at locations across the region, users will be able to access interactive content exploring local ecosystems, wildlife, history and conservation efforts before continuing their journey.
Organisers hope the trail will give visitors another reason to explore the region.
"It will encourage longer stays, helping people discover more things we've got to do in town," Dr Simpson said.
Dr Smith said the trail was also about helping people better understand the environment around them and why it matters.
"I think education is such an important part of conserving anything," she said.
"By connecting those environments with people, particularly the things they value, we can help them realise those things are actually connected to these ecosystems."
Dale Last at last year’s Don River Dash. Photo supplied: Mikayla Colquhoun.
Bowen’s Don River Dash has received a $20,000 boost through the Government’s Homegrown Destination Event Fund, helping strengthen the off-road motorsport event’s reputation as a major tourism drawcard.
Member for Burdekin Dale Last has welcomed the funding for the event which had cemented itself on the national motorsport calendar.
“There is no other event in Queensland like the Don River Dash, bringing together more than 5000 visitors to the Bowen region for an exhilarating off-road endurance race along the riverbed of the Don River,” Mr Last said.
“The Don River Dash is more than a race - it’s a celebration of community, adrenaline, and
Queensland’s rugged beauty. And it’s an event that the Crisafulli Government is proud to support and one that I am proud to support as the local member.”
“It’s events like this that drive our regional tourism and bring real, tangible results for Bowen including a $3.8 million injection into the local economy.”
Mr Last said supporting homegrown events like the Don River Dash was part of the Government's 2045 plan towards making Bowen a long-term tourism destination.
“Queensland is fast becoming the events capital of Australia, and we’re investing in more
homegrown events to keep that momentum going,” Mr Last said.
“With something for everyone, events like the Don River Dash will once again be a standout
experience for locals and visitors alike.
“We said we would deliver through Destination 2045 — and that’s exactly what we’re doing.”
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