The cruise season is in full swing and for the 2024/25 season, Shute Harbour will host 25 cruise ship visits, a significant increase from the 19 visits we welcomed in the 2023/24 season.

This year’s total combined guest capacity for vessels visiting Shute Harbour will be an impressive 66,834 passengers and when you add in the numbers of dedicated crew members then it is over 100,000.

Port of Airlie are also thriving and between the two ports the total number cruise ships visits for the Whitsundays is expected to exceed 100.

It also exciting that not only are we welcoming back Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Lines to Shute Harbour and the Whitsundays expanding our cruise line reach to new and prestigious cruise lines, including Silverseas, Viking, and Norwegian. This diversification underscores Shute Harbour’s growing status as a premier destination within the cruise tourism circuit and reflects the allure of our beautiful region.

The broader economic context for cruise tourism in Australia is more promising than ever. The latest economic impact assessment reveals that cruise tourism generated a record A$8.43 billion for the national economy during the 2023-24 financial year. This represents an impressive 49.7% increase from the previous year and is the highest level of economic output ever recorded for the industry.

These numbers are not just figures; they reflect real opportunities and growth for the Whitsundays. The cruise industry’s contribution to Australia’s economy supports over 26,000 full-time equivalent jobs and has provided A$2.83 billion in wages to Australian workers—an increase of 55.8% from the previous year. These statistics highlight the tangible benefits that cruise tourism brings, not just nationally but locally to regions like ours.

However, we must also recognise the challenges that come with these opportunities. The value of cruise tourism to our local economy is undeniable, but sustaining this growth is essential.

The deployment of cruise ships to our region is at risk while Australia remains one of the most expensive destinations for cruise lines. It is vital that we work together—government, industry stakeholders, and local communities—to maintain our competitive edge and ensure that the Whitsundays continues to be a sought-after destination.

Recently I was honoured to attend a special birthday for the 20th Anniversary of the Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors - Airlie Beach in an event held at Shute Harbour Marine Terminal.

It was a great turnout as volunteers from 2004-2024 have provided over 1 million cruise visitors with their warmth and friendly guidance came together to reconnect, celebrate their achievements, and share memories.

Hats off to the leadership and coordination of Ambassadors Keith, Brian and Lyn who spoke and have led the charge of our ambassadors’ service over the years as well as Dea from Tourism Whitsundays for coordinating the current program.

Thank you to every volunteer, past and present, for your tireless dedication. You are true ambassadors of the Whitsundays, ensuring that every visitor leaves with a story to tell and a reason to return. Here’s to continued success and many more years of extraordinary service.

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If you think you’ve explored all that The Whitsundays has to offer, think again! Just a short drive from Airlie Beach, there are hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re looking for adventure or a relaxing day out, here are some fantastic day trips around the region.

Proserpine

A quick drive from Airlie Beach, Proserpine has plenty of treasures worth exploring. Don’t miss the Whitsunday Crocodile Safari, where you can jump on a tractor-drawn wagon for an unforgettable tour to see crocodiles in their natural habitat—a must for nature lovers. For a peaceful escape, head to Lake Proserpine, just 30 minutes away. It’s an ideal spot for camping, fishing, or simply enjoying a picnic while soaking in the stunning views.

Bowen

Just 45 minutes north, Bowen is home to some of the region’s best-kept secrets. Horseshoe Bay is a quiet beach with a vibrant underwater world, perfect for a snorkelling adventure. Afterwards, treat yourself to fresh, local seafood at Bird’s Fish Bar. And no trip to Bowen is complete without a visit to the Big Mango—don’t forget to try their famous mango sorbet!

Collinsville

For a dose of local history, head out to Collinsville. The No. 1 Mine Site offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s mining past. Then, stop by the historic Bowen River Hotel, a charming pub that’s been serving since 1861.

These short drives are the perfect way for locals to rediscover the hidden gems on our doorstep—whether you’re after an adventure or a relaxing day out.

‍Contributed by Tourism Whitsundays

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A few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of visiting Parc Exclusif, the newest addition to the Whitsundays' accommodation offerings. Perched on a hill with panoramic 360-degree views of Airlie Beach and the surrounding Whitsunday Islands, this property is a hidden gem. Recently renovated by the Galloway family, Parc Exclusif now offers a unique setting for short stays, events, and weddings, combining tranquillity with breathtaking scenery.

On Saturday, November 30th, the property will host a launch event where guests can explore the space and experience its charm firsthand. The evening will feature catering by Coastal Food Design, premium drinks, and the chance to mingle while enjoying the stunning sunset views.

The event is a wonderful opportunity to see the property in person, learn more about its offerings, and connect with others in the community—all while supporting a great cause. Proceeds from ticket sales will benefit CQ Rescue.

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, November 30th

• Time: 4pm - 7pm

• Location: Parc Exclusif, Airlie Beach

• Ticket Price: $199 per person

• Charity: Proceeds will support CQ Rescue

• Tickets: Limited availability – secure yours through Airlie Events.

It’s a chance to experience something special in the Whitsundays—don’t miss it!

Contributed by Jade Yvonne, Business Development Executive, Tourism Whitsundays

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Ten-year-old Reef Little, has been making waves on the ‘Fishing the Whitsundays’ Facebook page, where he has impressed with his marine life and sea creature inspired artwork.

Reef began drawing at the age of eight, and while he has always been a naturally creative individual, his artistic skills have reached new heights, particularly since he enrolled in Bridget Peel-Fine Art classes at the encouragement of his mother, Nadine Little.

90% of Reef’s fantastic drawings are inspired by marine life or sea creatures, due to his love for fishing and the ocean.

As he has always enjoyed fishing, he has been on the fishing page from a young age posting pictures of his recent catches.

His recent posts, however, have transitioned from fish pictures to promoting his art on there, where he sells framed copies and prints of his original art work.

While Reef is mainly selling prints of his work, he will also do custom pieces if asked, with businesses, including fishing charters even asking to have his drawings on their shirts.

Since he was eight years old Nadine has put Reef’s drawings on the fishing page and over the past two years his work has become increasingly popular with locals, there is 20,000 people on this specific Facebook page and Nadine explains how increasingly supportive the members on there are, with one guy from Sydney even buying three of reef’s drawings.

“He has now got a name for himself from posting his artwork on that page,” Nadine exclaimed.

The profits from the paintings go directly to Reef for pocket money, and Nadine is excited about the possibility of launching a clothing line featuring Reef's artwork in the near future:

“We’re likely to start with a market stall, and then expand to sell his prints alongside the shirts,” she says.

In addition to the clothing line, Nadine is planning to launch an Instagram page to showcase Reef's talent and reach a broader audience, helping to introduce his art to more people.

Besides being an upcoming artist and going to school, Reef is a very kind boy who loves fishing and the outdoors, and going to his art classes twice a week:

“He’s not a sit inside and be stuck on the iPad kid, he just constantly wants to go out fishing on the boat,” Nadine stated.

Reef has a dedicated wall in his home where he displays his framed artwork, and he is determined to fill it as he continues to create.

Although his art has garnered significant support from the local community, Reef remains incredibly modest. He humbly believes he’s "not that good" and would never claim to be better than anyone else.

Reef’s artistic journey took a notable step forward when he entered his first competition at the Reef Gateway Hotel during the Great Barrier Reef Festival, where he earned second place for his striking striped marlin drawing.

If you’re interested in acquiring one of Reef’s unique paintings, you can reach out to Nadine Little via Facebook.

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Reef with one of his framed prints

Reef drawing up a storm

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In last week’s edition, we honoured two of the three Debney brothers who served their country in World War Two - Corporal Harry Stanley Debney QX2390 and Private Douglas Ross Debney QX 2389, both in the 2/15th Battalion 9th Division. In this edition, we salute George Frederick Leonard Debney, Warrant Officer Class QX4606 of the Royal Australian Engineers.

The first of the Debney brothers to enlist, George was the eldest son, born 16/01/1910. He enlisted in the early days of the war on 03/11/1939 and was posted to 2/1st Field Workshop.

Initially serving in Tobruk, the workshop unit was divided into small sections and scattered about the waddies so that if one section was blown up the unit could still function. This was preferable to having the unit in one area and a target for the German planes to immobilise the much-needed equipment and skilled tradesmen to repair tanks, vehicles and guns. They had no planes and the German planes would dive out of the sun making them very hard to see. Tobruk was known for the daily bombing of the harbour, the Australian infantry grit, the British “bush” artillery and the tank workshops where holes were patched, blood was hosed out and the tank returned to service. George was instrumental in this tank work, no doubt due to his time served training in England on British tanks.

Not long after Tobruk, George suffered from meningitis and was isolated in a British hospital. George was paralysed down the right side and was told that he would never walk again - but he defied these predictions thanks to his fighting spirit and a Polish masseuse who did a marvellous job getting his strength and mobility back again. Such was George’s skill, when the infection had passed, a fellow soldier would visit and sit at his bedside taking notes on repairing and maintenance of the Rolls Royce Merlin tank engines.

When George returned to his unit, forces were under General Montgomery for the big push west against General Rommel and the AIF convoy drove west to El Alamein. The men of 2/1st Workshop were responsible for keeping the vehicles moving. The three brothers – George, Harry and Douglas – were together again.

By this time, the Japanese were in the war so eventually the 9th Division was brought back to Australia. The war in the Pacific was different from fighting in the desert and the 2/1st Field Workshop was divided up into smaller units with George being transferred to the 2/118 Australian Brigade Workshop. George served in Milne Bay, Port Moresby and Finschhaffen. He was involved with the 9th Division landings at Scarlett Beach in New Guinea; in the 2nd wave.

The 9th division returned to Queensland’s tableland area and were regrouping for the landing in Borneo and many older troops were downgraded medically. George was one of these. He was discharged on 18/11/1944.

Upon his return to Australia, he married Dulcie Jean Olsen and they had four children. George had returned with malaria, and this troubled him for many years after the war. Jungle warfare and the climate in New Guinea were detrimental to his health, especially the muscles which had been damaged by the paralysis with meningitis.

George Debney died in Nambour on 20/07/1963. As was the case with many World War Two veterans, he died young.

Postcript: On 17/04/1942, the father of George, Douglas and Harry, Lieutenant Douglas Debney Q224671 enlisted in the Volunteer Defence Corps (VDC) as a way of “doing his bit” at home.

Lest we Forget

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On November 11th we remembered those who lost their lives in wars.

Remembrance Day services took place in many places in the region, including Cannonvale, Bowen and Proserpine.

At the Cannonvale Remembrance Day service almost 50 were in attendance including Mayor Ry Collins, Councillor Clay Bauman, and Councillor Jan Clifford.

Treasurer of Airlie Beach – Whitsunday Sub Branch John Schweitzer spoke on half of the president.

“Today was originally attempted to mark the ending of World War One, the war to end all wars,” he said.

“However, our history has shown World War One was not the war to end all wars.

“Today, we remember not only those during World War One, but all the servicemen and servicewomen we lost and were injured during all wars.

“When you remember those no longer with us don't remember them as older veterans with a bunch of medals, remember them as young soldiers, airmen and sailors full of life with a smile on their face.

“We also ask you to spare a thought to all families left at home while their loved ones are serving in some country on the other side of the world.”

Social Pics
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Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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There are four new faces on the Bowen Tourism and Business (BTB) committee. Erika Schmid, Bernie Mackie, Jilly Paddon and Amanda Brockbank joined the committee at last week’s Annual General Meeting held at the Big Mango. The other committee members are Jenn Honnery, Chloe Bauer, Michelle O’Regan and Natalie Lydom.

Jenn Honnery will remain as chair of the organisation.

In her report, Jenn thanked the staff and the volunteers for their dedication, hard work and passion and she thanked the outgoing committee members.

She said BTB was in a very strong financial position and that the team had welcomed a record number of visitors in the past financial year.

More than 56,000 visitors were welcomed at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre on the Bruce Highway and the information booth at Bowen’s Front Beach – representing more than 150 people every day.

“The revenue we raise through selling merchandise at the Visitor Information Centre, membership, and the funding from Whitsunday Regional Council is invested directly back into the community through our ongoing marketing efforts,” she said.

“In June 2024, we sponsored a full 30-minute episode of Queensland Weekender, taking viewers on a journey through Bowen and Collinsville.

“We are proud to continue to promote Bowen as a holiday destination through television, radio, print and digital channel.”

More than 60 people attended the AGM and this was followed by a night of networking with music provided by Kim-Maree.

The new committee also met after the AGM and elected the executive for 2024/25.

Deputy Mayor Councillor Michelle Wright is pictured with the Bowen Tourism and Business committee for 2024/25 - Jenn Honnery (Chair), Erika Schmid, Bernie Mackie, Jilly Paddon, Leanne Abernethy (Manager and secretary), Chloe Bauer (Treasurer), Natalie Lydom (Deputy Chair), Michelle O'Regan and Amanda Brockbank. Photo supplied

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Long-awaited works have finally begun at Hamilton Plains, located between Proserpine and Strathdickie Road.

Shute Harbour Road is the only major route connecting the Bruce Highway and Proserpine to the Whitsunday townships of Cannonvale, Airlie Beach, Jubilee Pocket, and the port of Shute Harbour. This key road runs through Hamilton Plains, a flood-prone, low-lying area that frequently experiences closures following heavy rainfall.

The project aims to enhance the flood resilience of this section of road by raising its level and increasing the capacity of culverts. These improvements will help floodwaters drain more quickly and efficiently, reducing the likelihood of road closures during wet weather.

The project was secured through funding championed by Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox during his time as Mayor in 2019. However, until now, no work had been done, leaving residents of Cannonvale and Airlie Beach, for the most part, cut off whenever heavy rainfall impacted the area.

“The funding for this project, which I secured as Mayor from the Coalition federal government in 2019, has been sat on for too long by the State Labor government,” Mr Willcox stated in a Facebook post.

“Advice from Queensland Transport and Main Roads is pre construction was set to take place from 28th October to late December 2024, weather permitting,” he added.

Amanda Camm, MP also remains dedicated to ensuring the successful delivery of this project, after having advocatedfor it since 2019. She has emphasised its importance for the community's safety, especially with the wet and disaster season fast approaching:

“Once this project has been completed it will provide minimal disruption during wet season especially for school goers and commuters who travel for work between the towns preventing the roads being cut off.

“Just prior to the election it was announced that the Government advised they will start the flood immunity upgrade.”

As Amanda has only just been sworn in, she will be requesting a briefing on the project as to how it is progressing and to receive more details from the Department including a time frame on the project.

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Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox

Amanda Camm, MP

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Beautiful, affectionate and smoochy Tigger loves attention and cuddles. This bundle of joy came into the care of Bowen and Collinsville Pet Rescue after sadly being abandoned.

Whilst Tigger can be a little shy at first, once he is comfortable with you, he is the most loving boy and will want lots of your affection.

Tigger is great with children and is toilet trained, he also has been desexed, microchipped and vaccinated, so is ready to go to his loving home.

Do you think Tigger would be a great addition to your family? Email: bcpri_adoptions@outlook.com with your contact number and email address.

Sex: Male

Age: 12months

Breed: Ragdoll

Adoption fee: $170

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Can you give Tigger a loving home?

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For this year’s Breast and Prostate Cancer Awareness Day the Proserpine Golf Club have seen the wonderful community we have here in the Whitsundays come together and get behind the cause.

Event organiser Noelene Spurway said the community have come through with supporting the event, with many amazing raffle prizes.

“The community has been amazing,” she said.

“Filbys have donated a Cowboys jersey that is signed, I’m going to get it framed so it can be auctioned off, I’ve also had a Broncos jersey donated as well.

“Lots of people have promised me prizes and donations to the raffle, it's been really good.

“Our community rocks!”

The Proserpine Golf Club has held a Breast Cancer Awareness Day in the past but this is the first time the club has combined it with prostate cancer awareness too.

Noelene expresses that most people have been touched by either of these diseases and it’s important to make people aware of them.

One in six men and one in seven women are diagnosed with the diseases and Noelene also understands the importance of getting an early diagnosis.

“In the earlier stages, there is a much better chance of getting that full recovery as opposed to the late diagnosis. So early detection is best,” said Noelene.

With so much community support the Breast and Prostate Cancer Awareness Day is bound to be a great day out.

Best of all, you do not have to be a club member to join in on the fun, everyone is welcome.

What: Breast and Prostate Cancer Awareness Day

Where: Proserpine Golf Club

When: Sunday 24 November, 10am

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As the waters around the Whitsunday region begin to warm up, it's crucial for locals to be more aware of the upcoming cyclone season, which officially runs from November 1st to April 30th.

Preparing for cyclone season goes beyond simply knowing the dates—it requires careful planning and proactive measures to ensure safety and minimise damage.

Below includes some vital information on how to start getting prepared for cyclone season:

Before Cyclone Season:

1. Council: Verify your home meets cyclone standards with your local council or building authority.

2. Secure: Check the stability of walls, roof, and eaves.

3. Trim: Prune trees and branches near your home (with council approval).

4. Clear Property: Remove loose items that could become hazards in high winds.

5. Storm Surge/Tide: Know the nearest safe high ground and access route in case of flooding.

6. Emergency Kit: Prepare a kit with essentials.

7. Emergency Contacts: Display a list of important phone numbers.

8. Neighbours: Check on neighbors, especially newcomers, to ensure they’re prepared.

When a Cyclone Watch Is Issued:

1. Secure: Secure loose items around your property.

2. Fuel: Fill your vehicle's fuel tank and top up water containers, including those in your emergency kit.

3. Review: Review your emergency plan with everyone in the household, including shelter locations and evacuation steps.

4. Stay updated: Listen to local radio or TV for warnings and info.

5. Check on neighbours: Ensure your neighbours are prepared too

When a Cyclone Warning is Issued

1. Children: If requested by local authorities, collect children from school or childcare centre and go home.

2. Shelter Vehicles: Park vehicles under solid shelter

3. Furniture: Put wooden or plastic outdoor furniture in your pool or inside with other loose items.

4. Secure Windows: Close shutters or board-up or heavily tape all windows. Draw curtains and lock doors.

5. Pack an evacuation kit

6. Remain indoors: and stay tuned to your local radio/TV for further information.

When Hit by Cyclone:

1. Electricals: Disconnect all electrical appliances.

2. Shelter: Stay inside and shelter clear of windows and in the strongest part of the building.

3. Protect: If needed, protect yourself with mattresses, rugs or blankets under a

strong table or bench or hold onto a solid fixture, e.g. a water pipe.

After the Cyclone:

1. Stay Indoors: Wait for official confirmation before going outside.

2. Check for Hazards: Look for gas leaks and avoid using wet electrical appliances.

3. Stay Informed: Listen to local radio or emergency broadcasts for updates.

4. Evacuation Precautions: Only return when it's safe, using recommended routes and taking your time.

5. Be Cautious: Watch for downed power lines, damaged buildings, and never enter floodwaters.

6. Help, Don’t Sightsee: Avoid unnecessary travel; check on neighbors and offer help.

7. Limit Communication: Keep phone lines open for emergencies.

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With cyclone season fast approaching, now is the time to start your garden preparations. Norina Jane from WhitPro gave us her top tips for protecting your garden, and yourself during cyclone season.

The first tip Norina gives is to clear all vegetation at least 1 metre from all buildings. Vegetation close to your house can cause damage to the building in the midst of a cyclone as it brushes against, or worst still, smacks against walls continuously. Also worth noting, is that vegetation against a building is a direct highway for termites, something we all need to be aware of in the Whitsundays.

Norina also explains how it is important to clean out your roof gutters this time of year. Gutters that are blocked by leaf matter and other debris can have dire consequences during cyclonic weather, with excessive water being held in your gutters and back flowing into your home. Water will find “the path of least resistance”, so make sure all gutters are free of debris.

Alongside roof gutters, cleaning out drains and water ways of any obstacles that will affect water flow is also important. This includes buildup of debris such as fallen tree branches, silt, mud and any rubbish piles lying around your garden that you have been meaning to get to. Address these now before the wet season is in full swing.  Make sure that water will follow via its intended path.

Whilst assessing your garden, look up.  Evaluate trees by checking for signs of dead branches, sections of trees that are diseased or have been damaged by pests. One of the biggest causes of home damage during cyclones is fallen trees or branches that damage roofs. This often leads to water entering the home, causing internal damage that can be costly to repair and distressing to deal with during a severe weather event.

Lastly, clean your palms by seeding, removing dead fronds and, of course, coconuts. Coconuts can become dangerous projectiles in a cyclone.

It's always important to plan ahead. Make a plan as to how you will manage outdoor furniture, trampolines and any other lose objects around your yard if there is notification of an impending cyclone.

https://www.whitpro.com.au/

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At the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry Annual General Meeting (AGM) the new board for 2024 – 2025 was announced.

Introducing the Board: President Allan Milostic (LiveLife Pharmacy Airlie Beach), Vice President Vacant, Secretary Megan Taylor (Kapow Interactive), Treasurer Fiona Erquiaga (Smooth Sailing Finance Consulting), Jannah Baker (Scallywag Fabrication), Emily Harvey (Filby’s Motors), Anthony Nobilia (Airlie Beach Executive Services) and Asher Telford (Whitsunday Charter Boat Industry Association and SeaLink).

The Board is supported by the Chamber Liaison Dr Julia Evans and Policy Advisor Richard Evans. Together, they bring over 30 years’ experience in executive leadership, strategy, advocacy, member education and engagement, and operations in state and national peak industry associations.

During the AGM president Allan Milostic reported on activity and future plans for the Chamber’s strategic pillars of advocacy, membership, and business education having spent the last year bedding down new Chamber operations and communications.

“Our advocacy activity this year included opportunities for local and state government candidates to meet and address business community concerns, being appointed to the Council’s newly formed Economic Development Advisory Group, establishing regular knowledge exchange briefings across all levels, as well as joining conversations with Chambers of Commerce from Brisbane and northern Australian,” said President Allan Milostic.

“Looking ahead, in the new year, we will be convening a Chamber Advisory Group – a strategic think tank that will shape a range a Chamber initiatives such as the federal election, regional economic development, workforce availability and productivity, and our Whitsunday Business Conference. Additionally, a special Proserpine Committee will be formed to address specific issues and ideas.

“We’ve seen our membership base increase to 180 spanning all industry sectors. Together with Tourism Whitsundays, we launched the new and historic joint membership offer and have expanded the range of exclusive services and opportunities available to members.

“In the new year, we expect to see increased growth and membership engagement as we strive towards our goal of 300 members by December 2025.”

Following the AGM, a lively and informative conversation took place with two 2024 Whitsunday Business Award winners — Hall of Fame appointee and Most Outstanding Whitsundays Service Provider Judy Porter of Shiift, and Most Outstanding Whitsundays Retailer, Patrick Atkins from Airlie Beach Crew Clothing Co.

1 Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce Board Members Emily Harvey, Megan Taylor, Allan Milostic, Anthony Nobilia, Asher Telford and Fiona Erquiaga (absent Jannah Baker).

3 Courtney Quinn-McCabe, Jude Tyzack, and Joana Mendes

5 Sue Birch, Mark Henry, and Leanne Abernethy

7 Chamber Liaison Dr Julia Evans, Judy Porter of Shiift, and Patrick Atkins from Airlie Beach Crew Clothing Co.

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

At the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry Annual General Meeting (AGM) the new board for 2024 – 2025 was announced.

Introducing the Board: President Allan Milostic (LiveLife Pharmacy Airlie Beach), Vice President Vacant, Secretary Megan Taylor (Kapow Interactive), Treasurer Fiona Erquiaga (Smooth Sailing Finance Consulting), Jannah Baker (Scallywag Fabrication), Emily Harvey (Filby’s Motors), Anthony Nobilia (Airlie Beach Executive Services) and Asher Telford (Whitsunday Charter Boat Industry Association and SeaLink).

The Board is supported by the Chamber Liaison Dr Julia Evans and Policy Advisor Richard Evans. Together, they bring over 30 years’ experience in executive leadership, strategy, advocacy, member education and engagement, and operations in state and national peak industry associations.

During the AGM president Allan Milostic reported on activity and future plans for the Chamber’s strategic pillars of advocacy, membership, and business education having spent the last year bedding down new Chamber operations and communications.

“Our advocacy activity this year included opportunities for local and state government candidates to meet and address business community concerns, being appointed to the Council’s newly formed Economic Development Advisory Group, establishing regular knowledge exchange briefings across all levels, as well as joining conversations with Chambers of Commerce from Brisbane and northern Australian,” said President Allan Milostic.

“Looking ahead, in the new year, we will be convening a Chamber Advisory Group – a strategic think tank that will shape a range a Chamber initiatives such as the federal election, regional economic development, workforce availability and productivity, and our Whitsunday Business Conference. Additionally, a special Proserpine Committee will be formed to address specific issues and ideas.

“We’ve seen our membership base increase to 180 spanning all industry sectors. Together with Tourism Whitsundays, we launched the new and historic joint membership offer and have expanded the range of exclusive services and opportunities available to members.

“In the new year, we expect to see increased growth and membership engagement as we strive towards our goal of 300 members by December 2025.”

Following the AGM, a lively and informative conversation took place with two 2024 Whitsunday Business Award winners — Hall of Fame appointee and Most Outstanding Whitsundays Service Provider Judy Porter of Shiift, and Most Outstanding Whitsundays Retailer, Patrick Atkins from Airlie Beach Crew Clothing Co.

Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce Board Members Emily Harvey, Megan Taylor, Allan Milostic, Anthony Nobilia, Asher Telford and Fiona Erquiaga (absent Jannah Baker).

Courtney Quinn-McCabe, Jude Tyzack, and Joana Mendes

Sue Birch, Mark Henry, and Leanne Abernethy

Chamber Liaison Dr Julia Evans, Judy Porter of Shiift, and Patrick Atkins from Airlie Beach Crew Clothing Co.

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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The Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors celebrated their 20th year last Thursday.

A huge congratulations to all volunteers for reaching such a monumental milestone.

Coordinator Lyn Blanche said herself and fellow Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors, past and present, are extremely proud of this accomplishment.

The event was held at the stunning Shute Harbour Marine Terminal and all volunteers, current serving and old were joined by representatives from Tourism and Events Queensland, Councillor Jan Clifford, Councillor Clay Bauman, CEO of the Whitsunday Regional Council Warren Bunker and Mayor Ry Collins.

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Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors, Tourism Whitsunday Visitor Services Manager Dea Huvonen, and Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins

Manager Aviation, Tourism and Marine Shaun Cawood, Councillor Clay Bauman, TEQ Marina Neidig, Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth, CEO of the Whitsunday Regional Council Warren Bunker, Mayor Ry Collins, TEQ Kim McConnie, Director of Commercial Business Craig Turner, and TEQ Josh Green

Councillor Jan Clifford and Whitsunday Regional Council Manager Aviation, Tourism and Marine Shaun Cawood

Zak Kelly, Emma Murray, and Ross Courtenay

Geoff Smith, Celia Smith, and Robert Woodham

Allan Milostic and Linda Richardson

Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors Coordinator Lyn Blanche, and Tourism Whitsunday Visitor Services Manager Dea Huvonen

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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The Pioneer-Burdekin Pumped Hydro Energy Storage Project, once a key part of Queensland’s energy future, has officially been scrapped by the newly-elected LNP Government. After releasing a detailed report into the project’s feasibility, Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie confirmed it was neither financially viable nor environmentally sustainable, citing an overwhelming $36 billion cost. For many local residents, the decision brought a sense of relief after years of uncertainty, with concerns about transparency and community consultation now coming to light. As Mr Bleijie put it, “Queenslanders were kept in the dark.” The LNP now looks to shift its focus to smaller, more feasible energy solutions for the state.

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton, Queensland Premier David Crisafulli and Glen Kelly spoke to locals in Eungella last weekend to confirm the Pioneer-Burdekin Pumped Hydro scheme would not proceed. Photo supplied

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LNP Confirms Pioneer-Burdekin Pumped Hydro Project Axed

The newly-elected State Government has officially confirmed that the Pioneer-Burdekin Pumped Hydro Energy Storage Project will not proceed, following the release of the project’s Detailed Analytical Report.
The report highlighted that the proposed project was deemed not financially viable and not environmentally appropriate, with significant concerns raised about the lack of community consultation. Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie said that the analysis revealed that the estimated cost of the project would have imposed a staggering $15,653 burden on each Queensland household, contributing to the total projected cost of approximately $36 billion—an amount that he said the previous government had not disclosed during its campaign.
Mr Bleijie addressed these concerns at a press conference held in Mackay on Tuesday November 5, and said, “Steven Miles during the election campaign refused to release the costings of the Pioneer-Burdekin Pumped Hydro scheme, and now we reveal that it was a $36 billion project.
“Not only that, the government’s own report says it was not commercially viable. It didn't stack up and recommended it not proceed.
“The Labor government had a lot of questions to answer. How is it that the Liberal National Party government within 48 hours of forming government was able to ascertain that the project was not commercially viable and cost $36 billion?”
Newly elected Member for Mackay, Nigel Dalton echoed Mr Bleijie's sentiments in Mackay, reflecting on the emotional response from the community following the announcement.
“It was a relief to hear the news,” he shared.
"Just a few days ago, I was with Premier David Crisafulli up in Eungella, witnessing incredibly emotional scenes as residents of Netherdale, Eungella, and Finch Hatton learned that the pumped hydro project would not go ahead. For many, it was a moment of relief, and they finally felt as though their voices had been heard and their concerns valued once again.
“There were emotions which I had rarely seen when there’s an announcement from a politician.
“This is actual politics in our regions.”
The LNP said that the report also indicated that the project could not be built in time to meet Queensland’s emissions targets, highlighting a need for a shift in focus.
“We want to explore smaller pumped hydro projects that can be delivered without burdening the taxpayer,” Mr Bleijie remarked.
“It’s crucial that we look for viable solutions that work for our communities and our environment.”
As the LNP government moves forward, it aims to resettle communities impacted by the project’s halt and support local businesses.
“We want to resettle those communities,” Mr Bleijie said.
“We want businesses that are struggling to thrive again and people back in their communities to support those local businesses.”
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‍Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie and Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton held a press conference in Mackay on Tuesday to confirm the Pioneer-Burdekin Pumped Hydro Energy Storage Project would not proceed. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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