Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Students with a creative flair are being encouraged to step forward and submit their artwork for the chance to see it projected onto the façade of Australian Parliament House. The opportunity is open to creative students in Years 5 and 6 across Dawson, with selected artworks set to feature as part of Canberra’s Enlighten Festival 2027, which will run from February 26th to March 8th and celebrate light, art and creativity. As part of celebrations marking 100 years of Parliament in Canberra, artworks from every Australian state and territory will be projected onto the Australian Parliament House façade. Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP said the opportunity would allow young artists to showcase what makes the Dawson region special. “Our part of Queensland is pretty hard to beat when it comes to inspiration,” Mr Willcox said. “We have the Great Barrier Reef, cane fields, beaches, rainforest, rivers, farmers, fishing, wildlife and some of the most unique communities in the country. “There is plenty there to put on the big screen, and in this case, the screen is Parliament House itself.” From the natural beauty of the Great Barrier Reef and cane fields to local wildlife and communities, students are being encouraged to draw inspiration from the places, people, animals, plants and landscapes that make their part of Australia unique. Mr Willcox said he would love to see Dawson represented among the artworks selected for the national display. “I would love to see a slice of Dawson among them,” Mr Willcox added. “Imagine walking around Canberra at night and seeing Parliament House illuminated with artwork created by a student from Dawson. “That would be something to be proud of.” The program also provides students with an opportunity to engage with civics and learn more about the home of Australia’s democracy. Mr Willcox is encouraging schools, teachers and parents across Dawson to support creative Year 5 and 6 students to take part. Submissions close Thursday, October 29th. A student toolkit containing tips and templates, along with a fact sheet for parents, is available through the Parliament House website at aph.gov.au/StudentArtwork. Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP is calling on creative Year 5 and 6 students across the region to submit their artwork for the chance to feature on Australian Parliament House during Enlighten Festival 2027. Photo supplied
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Mackay’s CBD and St Patrick’s Church on River Street were filled with officers in blue last Tuesday 29th September, as Queensland Police Service officers gathered alongside local representatives and members of the public to honour the lives of those who never came home from their shift. A march through the Mackay CBD was followed by a memorial service at St Patrick’s Church for National Police Remembrance Day. Officers and staff from across Mackay joined members of the community to honour those who lost their lives in the line of duty and reflect on their courage, dedication and sacrifice. Mayor Greg Williamson spoke about the community’s appreciation for police and the important role officers play across the region. He highlighted how police are often the first people the community turns to when there is a safety concern, while also recognising officers as members of local families and communities. “The people of Mackay call them when there's community safety at risk. And so, today, there's a chance for us, as a community, to join with the police force and say, We, as a community, really appreciate what you do.” “To the people who put their hand up to be in the police force, thank you. Thank you for what you are doing for us as a community, and for Queensland in general.” “Quite often, we take the police for granted, but that's who we call first, when there's a community risk apparent.” Mackay Whitsunday District Officer Superintendent Dean Cavanagh spoke about the officers who made the ultimate sacrifice and the lasting impact their deaths have had on families, friends, colleagues and the wider community. He also reflected on the strong attendance at the memorial and the respect shown towards those being remembered. “Today we come together as one voice to remember those officers who made the ultimate sacrifice.” “We gather not only to remember their courage, but also to acknowledge the profound impact their loss has had on families, friends, colleagues, and this community.” “It’s a privilege to see such a strong attendance here today, and it always demonstrates the enduring respect held for those that we remember.” “Please remember that today’s an opportunity to recognise the values of service, sacrifice and a reminder that behind every badge is a person.” “With honour they served.” On Tuesday 29th September, Mackay police officers, local representatives and community members gathered for National Police Remembrance Day. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
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A one-year-old girl has tragically died following a fatal traffic crash in Dysart on Sunday, 27th September. Emergency services were called to Golden Mile Road at about 9.05am after a single vehicle left the road and rolled. The one-year-old girl was declared deceased at the scene. A five-month-old boy also sustained serious injuries in the crash. The driver, a 22-year-old Moranbah woman, sustained minor injuries. Police are appealing for anyone who may have information, including dashcam or CCTV footage, to come forward. The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash. There were no further updates at the time of print.
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A thoughtful act of kindness is helping bring a little extra warmth to premature babies and their families at Mackay Base Hospital. My Hospital Foundation recently expressed their gratitude to the team Mackay Youth Justice Services, for a delivery of hand-knit premature baby beanies. The cosy hats were knit by a young person in connection to the service as part of their community hours, with help from Indigenous Service Support Officer Jackie T. “These beautiful handmade gifts have been donated to babies at Mackay Base Hospital and will bring comfort to families during a very special time,” a spokesperson said. “Acts of kindness like this make a real difference in our community. Thank you for your generosity and support.” The beanies are a reminder that even small gestures can make a big impact, with the young person's time and effort helping to support local families when they need it most.
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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.”
Dale Last has praised the local community’s advocacy to preserve the Bowen Jetty. Photo supplied: Mikayla Colquhoun.
Progress has been made on plans to replace one of the region’s most recognisable landmarks, Bowen Jetty, with Member for Burdekin Dale Last welcoming the acknowledgement of its economic and historical significance.
Mr Last said the Bowen community’s advocacy to preserve the Bowen Jetty was commendable, with the project now due to take its next steps.
“Across the years the Bowen Jetty has provided recreational access for residents and visitors while supporting operations associated with the nearby Port of Abbot Point, however ongoing deterioration has meant the iconic infrastructure has reached its end of service life,” Mr Last said.
“The broad ranging economic benefits for the Bowen region cannot be understated, from supporting the tourism economy to the maintenance and maritime small businesses who rely on its ability to support towage operations.”
“I have been proud to stand with the Bowen community and advocate for a wharf they can be proud of and know it continues to support their economy each and every day.”
Mr Last said the positive steps in the redevelopment of the Bowen Jetty went hand in hand with
progress on the Bowen Boat Harbour Master Plan and capped off a more-than-decade-long fight to better shape the future of Bowen’s foreshore.
“The Master Plan is the missing piece when it comes to the Bowen foreshore precinct. It is absolutely essential that the redevelopment of the jetty and upgrades of the foreshore tie into any redevelopment at the harbour, and vice versa, so we end up with the best result possible,” Mr Last said.
“This is an opportunity to transform the entire foreshore area into an oasis for locals and tourists alike less than 1km from the Bowen CBD. It’s about realising Bowen’s potential when it comes to economic development and job creation.”
Gregory Reinke launched his dentistry career at Kylie's Family Dental in Bowen. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville.
One Bowen local’s journey from university graduate to practicing dentist has led them home, back to the community that first inspired a career in oral health.
Back in January, Gregory Reinke started his first official practice work at Kylie's Family Dental, working within a team he knew he wanted to be a part of.
"I find that the work that is done here is both reliable and honest,” Dr Reinke said.
“I had done work experience at this clinic multiple times, had shadowed Kylie and seen the type of work she does.
“It's exactly the work I would like to do."
Dr Reinke grew up in Bowen, and from Year 8 he knew he wanted to become a dentist.
This ambition never wavered, leading him to study a Bachelor of Dental Surgery at James Cook University.
Dr Reinke completed his work clinical placements in Townsville and Proserpine before returning to Bowen, where he looks to continue honing his craft, while delivering excellent oral care.
“Since it's so early in my career, I still think there's still plenty for me to learn,” Dr Reinke said.
“In the last six months, I feel like I'm a different clinician, which has a lot to do with the support from Dr. Kylie.”
When it comes to oral health, Gregory recommends rinsing your mouth after consuming sugary or acidic food and drinks.
“I know every dentist is going to tell you to brush and floss, you can also rinse your mouth after you've had anything sugary or acidic,” Dr Reinke said.
“It can make a huge difference.”
One of the things I love most about living in the Whitsundays is the way our community always comes together when it matters most.
Whether it's lending a hand after a storm, supporting a local sporting club, volunteering at community events or digging deep for a worthy cause, generosity is simply part of who we are. It's what makes our region such a special place to call home.
This Saturday night, that community spirit will once again be on full display at the Mayor's Charity Ball at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre.
While the evening promises to be a fantastic celebration filled with great food, entertainment and plenty of fun, the real purpose is much bigger than a night out. It's about supporting a service that none of us ever hope to need, but one we are incredibly grateful is there when lives are on the line.
BMA CQ Rescue provides a vital lifeline across the Whitsundays and surrounding regions. Whether responding to serious road crashes, workplace incidents, medical emergencies, rescues at sea or emergencies on our islands, their highly skilled crews are there when every second counts.
Living in a region as diverse and expansive as ours, we understand just how important that rapid response capability is. Quite simply, lives are saved because of the work they do.
The Mayor's Charity Ball is our community's opportunity to give something back.
Every ticket purchased, every auction bid, every raffle ticket and every donation helps ensure CQ Rescue can continue delivering this lifesaving service to the people of our region.
I want to sincerely thank our sponsors, volunteers, organising committee and everyone attending on Saturday night. Events like this simply wouldn't happen without your generosity and commitment to our community.
Whether you're joining us at the Ball or simply supporting the cause from afar, thank you.
The Whitsundays has always been a community that looks after its own. I'm confident this year's Mayor's Charity Ball will once again showcase that incredible spirit and make a real difference for a service that is there for all of us, whenever we need it most.
Allan Milostic. Photo supplied: Julia Evans.
We’ve officially kicked off event season, and there’s a fantastic few months ahead for the Whitsundays.
From the recent Between the Tides Music Festival, through to the Airlie Beach Marathon Festival, Triathlon Festival, Great Barrier Reef Festival, Airlie Beach Race Week and Hamilton Island Race Week, our region is once again showcasing everything that makes the Whitsundays such an incredible place to live, work and visit.
And the excitement continues, with Whitsunday Trail Fest, Whitsundays Writers Festival, and Airlie Beach Festival of Music bringing even more visitors, energy, and activity to our region in the coming months.
It’s important to remember these events are not just happening at ‘the Beach’, one part of the Whitsundays – the benefits flow throughout our entire region. They bring visitors through our towns, support local businesses, create community pride, and provide valuable exposure that helps put the Whitsundays on the map.
The impact of these events is often much bigger than what we see on the day. Behind every successful event is a huge effort from organisers, volunteers, sponsors, and local businesses who invest their time, money, and resources to make them happen.
On behalf of the Chamber, thank you to everyone involved. Your commitment creates experiences that benefit our whole community.
Our local businesses play a huge role in making these events possible through sponsorships, partnerships, and financial support. This investment helps create opportunities for everyone and contributes to the long-term strength of our regional economy.
As a community, we can show our support by backing the businesses that support us – make a purchase, leave a review, share their stories online, or recommend them to family and friends.
Together, our events and our businesses continue to make the Whitsundays a vibrant, connected, and thriving place to live and visit.
Dr Hany Mohamed. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville.
After spending almost 20 years caring for patients in Egypt and Kuwait, Dr Hany Mohamed has brought his experience to the Whitsundays, where taking the time to listen is at the heart of his practice.
Coral Coast Doctors has quickly established itself as a trusted provider of affordable healthcare in the Whitsundays, being a fully bulk-billed practice, even off lower rate cost in order to prioritise patients getting the care they need.
“We try to listen to the patient very carefully, give everyone his time,” said Coral Coast Doctors General Practionier, Dr Hany Mohamed.
"If someone doesn’t have Medicare, we always try to work with them to make healthcare as affordable as possible.
“I hope that the cost will not be an issue for anybody here in our community.”
Since joining Coral Coast Doctors, Dr Hany has become a valued member of the team, spending his first three months in Bowen before relocating to the Cannonvale clinic. Before moving to Australia, Dr Hany worked for almost two decades in both general practice and emergency medicine across Egypt and Kuwait.
Known for his calm and compassionate manner, Dr Hany believes that understanding the whole person—not just their symptoms—is essential to delivering high-quality healthcare.
“Patients don’t always realise that some symptoms can be linked to other underlying health issues,” Dr Hany said.
“My role is to understand the bigger picture and identify what may be contributing to their concerns.”
David Roberston. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville.
The Whitsundays community had the opportunity to hear from Bendigo Bank's Chief Economist, with locals gathering to gain a better understanding of the economy and the financial issues affecting households and businesses.
Leading the discussion was Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Chief Economist David Robertson, whose engaging and easy to understand approach has made him one of Australia's most recognised economic commentators.
“I'm pleased that people are taking such an interest,” David said.
“I can see why, as it's more relevant than ever.”
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The event hosted by Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine brought together community members from all walks of life to share food and refreshments before settling in for a presentation on our current economy, covering interest rates, employment trends, property values, the Australian dollar, the global economy and the growing influence of artificial intelligence.
“I am optimistic,” David said when referring to the future of the economy.
“I think technological advancements over the decades have always been positive for any economy.”
Following the presentation, attendees had the opportunity to ask questions, discuss local concerns and hear David's perspective on the issues shaping the nation's economic outlook.
Audience questions covered everything from the housing market to the rapid rise of artificial intelligence, with many keen to understand how the technology could shape the future for younger generations.
“It was great to have a Chief Economist in the Whitsundays to give an update on the local, national and global economy, and be able to ask questions directly,” said Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy.
“As there have been varying views in mainstream media about the changes to negative gearing and Capital Gains Tax, the conflict in the Middle East and rising interest rates, David’s presentation painted a clear picture, presented in a way that was easy to understand.”
Mr Robertson said technological change had historically been a positive force for the economy, despite the challenges that come with rapid innovation.
"I think technological advancements over the decades have always been positive for any economy, it's innovation that keeps improving standards of living," Mr Robertson said.
"It's a case of how we leverage the technology, benefit from it, not be left behind and not be adversely impacted by it.
“We need to keep on the right side of it and for young Australians, I'm sure that's what most are trying to do.”
On the weekend of the 25th & 26th July our award-winning not-for-profit Airlie Beach Triathlon celebrates its 26th year, becoming one of Queensland's longest running multi-sport events.
At the start of 2023 the event was heading in the same direction as the Bowen and Yeppoon Triathlon events... dead in the water!
I volunteered to become the Whitsunday Triathlon Club President and Race Director alongside a team of club members and the journey began to reinvigorate the event.
A detailed professional plan was prepared to ensure the sustainability of the event; something missing in the past.
From day one it was imperative the triathlon source a suitable naming partner. If it was not for the generous financial and intellectual support from Paul Darrouzet and Coral Sea Marina Resort the event would have collapsed. 22 years of deep triathlon history would be gone in a flash and local juniors would lose meaningful opportunities.
Now, the number of amazing local corporate sponsors exceeds 50.
In 2024, the Whitsunday Triathlon Club was granted a prestigious award from Queensland Triathlon for "Club Initiative of the Year".
In 2025 the Airlie Beach Triathlon claimed runner-up status in Australia as judged by AusTriathlon for "an event with under 500 participants".
In January 2026 for the first time in 25 years, Tourism and Events Queensland made a substantial investment into our event, acknowleging its ability to generate local economic activity in our region, attract additional external visitation and drive social and community outcomes whilst enhancing the profile of the Whitsundays.
In February the sponsorship agreement was reached. This was music to our ears and a wonderful acknowledgement of all our hard work!
In May 2026 our event also received unprecedented sponsorship from Whitsunday Regional Council. These wonderful contributions have assured its long-term survival.
A key driver of all of this success has been our best-in-the-world Event Management Team. Their talent, commitment, skillset, expertise and passion are just remarkable!
We look forward to seeing you at this year's event.
Saturday will kick off with a carnival atmosphere as our Junior Triathlon begins at 2pm, catering for 5 to 8-year-olds, 9 to 11s and 12 to 15s, all within the safe and secure precinct of the Lagoon and the closed Broadwater Avenue (up to the Coral Sea Resort). A spectacle to watch, with two junior bikes to be won. Kids are encouraged to have a go, and EVERYONE IS A WINNER!
Next, we hold the Open Water Swim. A fun event for all levels, we’re even incorporating an "Anything Goes" category for the flounders and would-be's!
On Sunday we hold the main event with three triathlon distances - an Enticer, Sprint and Standard/Olympic distance.
If you prefer just one sport discipline, get a team together. It’s a great pathway into this amazing endurance sport.
My triathlon journey started in late 2017. Up until then I was only a casual runner and I needed more inspiration - this one sport was not enough of a challenge for me and I was not confident enough to run ultra events at my age. I needed more stimulation. Triathlon fitted the bill and now it is in my DNA.
Don't miss your opportunity to become a triathlete or be a member of a triathlon team on the weekend of the 25th & 26th July.
All race entry information can be found at airliebeachtriathlon.com.au
Jake Flaherty, Steve Obst and Justin Butler.
In recent years, many Australians—particularly those approaching or already in retirement—have been asking the same question: How do I protect my super and pension against market downturns?
It’s understandable. Since the COVID shock, we’ve seen ongoing uncertainty driven by rising interest rates, stubborn inflation, and global instability. While the reasons may differ from one cycle to the next, the impact on investor confidence is often the same.
A common reaction during volatile periods is to move to cash at the first sign of trouble. On the surface, it seems sensible—avoid losses and wait for markets to recover. The reality, however, is far less straightforward.
Market falls often happen quickly, and recoveries can be just as rapid. Some of the strongest gains occur in the early stages of a rebound, when sentiment is still negative. The challenge is that consistently timing when to get out—and more importantly, when to get back in—is incredibly difficult.
Even professional fund managers regularly get this wrong. There are also costs involved in switching investments. While not always obvious, transaction costs and spreads can reduce returns over time, particularly if decisions are made under pressure.
For younger investors still building their super, market downturns can actually work in their favour. Regular contributions continue, allowing them to buy investments at lower prices.
Retirees, however, face a different challenge. Drawing a regular pension means selling assets to fund income. If markets are down, this can lock in losses at exactly the wrong time.
This is why having a strategy in place is so important.
One approach we’ve used successfully over many years is to quarantine a portion of a retiree’s portfolio into cash and more conservative investments. This creates a buffer, allowing pension payments to continue without needing to sell growth assets during downturns.
Market volatility is a fact of investing—but with the right plan, it doesn’t have to derail your retirement.
If you’d like an obligation free review of your financial situation, call us for an appointment at our office in Carlo Drive, Cannonvale today.
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