Sugar Research Australia (SRA) has taken a major step forward in sugarcane research with the installation of a new DNA extraction robot at IRIS Laboratories, a move expected to significantly speed up the development of superior cane varieties.

The advanced equipment will dramatically increase the number of DNA extractions that can be completed each year for genotyping — the process used to identify specific sugarcane traits — allowing researchers to analyse far more plants in a much shorter timeframe.

The robot operates using a multi-channel pipette system, processing eight tubes with 96 wells simultaneously. Sugarcane leaves are macerated and centrifuged by the machine, streamlining what has traditionally been a highly labour-intensive task.

Variety Development Manager Dr Garry Rosewarne said the investment formed part of SRA’s expanding use of genomics within its breeding program and represented a major boost in efficiency.

“Done manually, somebody in the laboratory must grind up leaf tissues by hand using liquid nitrogen and then centrifuge the contents to separate them to extract and sequence the DNA. The total number of plants that can be analysed is around 1,000 in a fortnight,” Garry said.

“However, with a DNA extraction robot that figure can be increased to 10,000 completed in two to three weeks while the technicians can be employed in more strategic tasks.”

The genotypic data collected will be added to SRA’s growing database, which already includes information from 8,000 clones, encompassing all parent plants in the crossing plot at Meringa and FAT clones from the past decade.

“This ‘training population’ has been grown in the field to establish the strength of the traits in the field compared with the data we have collected in the laboratory,” Garry said.

“The result is the development of ‘prediction equations’ for each sugarcane trait which can then be used for analysing new seed that has just been crossed at Meringa.”

Key traits currently being prioritised include tonnes of cane per hectare, CCS, fibre content, and resistance to smut and Pachymetra. Looking ahead, the same technology could be used to identify additional traits such as disease resistance, plant height, tiller number and maturity.

As Garry put it, “The future just got closer!”

Local growers are encouraged to share which sugarcane traits matter most on their farms and what they would like to see developed next by writing in and having their say.

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Sugarcane leaf samples, like these, are used for DNA testing to help identify and develop stronger, higher-yielding cane varieties. Photo credit: Bowonpat Sakaew

Dr Jenny Sun, Genomics Scientist in Variety Development at SRA’s IRIS Laboratories will work with the new robot. Photo source: SRA

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The Journey Begins At Fitness Cartel Mackay

By Michael James – Fitness Industry Professional, Facility Owner & Wellness Coach

Every fitness journey begins with a goal. For some, it’s rebuilding strength after an injury. For others, it’s improving energy, gaining confidence, or finding a healthier routine. At Fitness Cartel Mackay, our vision has always been to create an environment where every member — no matter their background or starting point — has the opportunity to pursue those goals in a supportive, world-class setting.

More than equipment

Yes, our facility is packed with high-end equipment and cutting-edge spaces. But what makes Fitness Cartel Mackay truly stand out isn’t just what’s inside the walls — it’s the culture we’re building around it. From the outset, we set out to create a place where ambition could thrive, where families would feel welcome, and where the community could connect through health and fitness.

A place for everyone

Walking into a new gym can sometimes feel intimidating, which is why this facility has been carefully designed with inclusivity in mind. With multiple training zones, group fitness studios, a Reformer Pilates studio, and our Comfort Zone, every member can find a space that feels right for them.

It doesn’t matter whether your goal is to lift heavier, move with greater freedom, tone and strengthen, or simply improve your overall wellbeing — the environment has been created to support progress at every level.

Recovery as part of the journey

Training hard is only half the story. Recovery, rejuvenation, and mental reset are equally important. Our Wellness Centre has been purpose-built for exactly that. Featuring a large, 30-person traditional hot-rock sauna and three contrast therapy pools with a combined capacity of over 70 people, along with compression systems and red-light therapy, it offers one of the most comprehensive recovery experiences available anywhere in the country. Whether your focus is performance, wellness, or balance, recovery has a central place here.

Looking ahead

The opening of Fitness Cartel Mackay marks the beginning of a new chapter for health, fitness, and community in our region. What excites me most is not just the facility itself, but the opportunities it creates for people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities to come together in pursuit of their own version of greatness.

For me personally, after decades in the industry and visiting some of the best clubs across the globe, seeing a facility of this calibre come to Mackay is incredibly rewarding. But the real reward will come as our community embraces this space, makes it their own, and uses it as a platform to grow stronger — physically, mentally, and socially.

Because at Fitness Cartel Mackay, the journey is only just beginning. And greatness is waiting for everyone who chooses to step inside.

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By Cr Ash-Lee Johnson

Recovery is never just about rebuilding what was damaged, it is about learning and becoming stronger together. Each disaster event reminds us that our community is built on how we respond when times are tough and how we support one another.

As Chair of the Human and Social Recovery Sub Group, I see firsthand that the impact is not only structural, but also emotional and social. In times of uncertainty, communities need connection and practical support. This is where our community truly shows its strength.

I want to sincerely thank the many residents who stepped up to help neighbours, check in on friends, share resources and offer a hand where it was needed during Tropical Cyclone Koji. That willingness to look after one another speaks to the strength of our community and is something we should never take for granted.

I also want to acknowledge everyone who played a role in the response and recovery. The people working on the ground, coordinating behind the scenes, and supporting people in ways both visible and unseen. Thank you for your commitment and professionalism, your effort underpins our region’s ability to recover and move forward.

Natural disasters place a multidimensional burden on local councils, who operate at the frontline of recovery. The impacts are felt right across council operations. Budgets are stretched by repair costs and unplanned expenditure, essential services are disrupted and communities require ongoing support as recovery unfolds.

One of the most immediate challenges councils face is damage to local infrastructure. Roads, stormwater networks, community facilities and emergency access are often affected, limiting mobility and slowing recovery for residents and businesses alike. The Queensland Reconstruction Authority’s 2024-2025 Annual Report highlights the scale of this challenge, with 73 of Queensland’s 77 local government areas activated under the Disaster Relief Funding Arrangements and reconstruction costs exceeding $2.2 billion.

With disasters becoming more frequent and severe, we need to look past the urgent response and work on building resilience that lasts. This requires investing in sound planning, strong partnerships and holding a clear understanding of risk. Just as importantly, it means recognising that resilient infrastructure and resilient communities go hand in hand.

We will always be learning. And with each challenge, we have the opportunity to do better together.

Let’s Chat – Council Connect

Residents can catch up with councillors in person at upcoming Let’s Chat - Council Connect sessions held across the region.  The next sessions will be held at Eungella and Finch Hatton on Tuesday, February 3.

Details on upcoming sessions can be found on the Connecting Mackay website.

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The spirit of community was on full display as the Mackay region gathered for a memorable night of pride, gratitude and celebration at the 2026 Mackay Regional Council Australia Day Awards.

With more than 186 nominations submitted, the awards recognised 98 outstanding individuals and community groups whose dedication, passion and service continue to shape the region.

Mayor Greg Williamson said, “Choosing a winner in each category was a real challenge,” this year.

“The volume of outstanding nominations truly reflects the incredible community we are fortunate to be part of.

“These awards wouldn’t exist without your efforts, so thank you for helping us shine a spotlight on our local heroes.”

The 2026 Australia Day Award recipients are as follows:

• Citizen of the Year: Col Benson
• Young Citizen Award: Amelia Bishop
• Lori Burgess Community Volunteer Award: Edie Weiss
• Senior Sports Award: Daniel Mayfeld
• Young Sports Award: Ayla Moon
• Community Group Award: Mackay parkrun
• Arts and Culture Award: Nicole Thomson
• Environmental Achievement Award: Dr Alison Pighills
• Access and Inclusion Achievement Award: Krystal Demaid

Ayla Moon and Nicole Thomson were absent on the night of the awards

Congratulations to all winners and nominees recognised for their outstanding contributions to the Mackay community!

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Find the pics here!: https://tinyurl.com/2bg69tdf

Hi Whitsundays!

I’m not sure if I’ve ever formally introduced myself to you all before, but hi, I’m Chelsea.

I’ve been working behind the scenes of Whitsunday Life for around a year now, however, I’ve been writing for Burdekin Life for over two years. Although I’ve been working alongside the talented Life Publishing team for what feels like forever, this month saw me enter the office for the VERY FIRST TIME!

I grew up in Ayr, yet for the past couple of years, I’ve been writing the stories of North Queensland from Brisbane, the United States, Africa and all over Europe!

I spent the entirety of last year travelling and exploring the world; skydiving over the island of O’ahu, sandboarding down the dunes of the Sahara Desert and making millions of memories and friends across the globe. I hope one day soon you all find yourself in a position to pack a suitcase and book a one-way ticket because as cliché as it sounds, it’ll be one of the best experiences of your life!

In just a week, I’ll set off on my next adventure, but for now, I’ve very much enjoyed indulging in the serenity of the Whitsundays and staying with my grandparents at our family’s holiday house in Adelaide Point.

Send me an email at Chelsea@LifePublishingGroup.Com and say g’day. I’d love to continue sharing your stories and meeting you all!

Until next time, have a great read, and a great week!
Chelsea.

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In light of recent weather events, including Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji, residents have been looking out for one another, citing local damage across the region and posting warnings on private community pages to ensure the safety of others.

A helpful local recently shared a heads-up for anyone travelling between Collinsville and Bowen. They spotted a large water-filled pothole near the railway crossing by Terry’s Creek and warned others to take care.

The post reminded drivers that the pothole is easily avoidable if you spot it in time and watch for oncoming traffic. Simple advice like this can make a huge difference, especially during the wet season when road hazards pop up quickly.

It’s a great example of locals looking out for locals — sharing tips, keeping each other safe, and helping everyone get home without incident. If you see something on the road that could be dangerous, don’t keep it to yourself — let your neighbours know and report the incident to Whitsunday Regional Council's Customer Service Centre by calling 1300 972 753.

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Residents have been looking out for one another following local damage from Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji. Photo source: Shutterstock

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A Whitsunday Anglican School student has been hailed for his bravery after helping rescue two people from the ocean during the severe weather brought by Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji.

Byron Goodin, a Year 12 boarding student, was in the car with his parents near Cannonvale Beach when they stopped to assist a local man whose boat was stuck in nearby mangroves. Soon after, they were alerted that people were stranded in the rough surf.

“At that point, I just ran down to the beach to see what I could do,” Byron recalled.

Alongside three other bystanders, Byron entered the water in treacherous conditions, including heavy rain, debris, and strong winds. The group located two people about 20 to 30 metres from shore and helped bring them safely back to land.

“Their boat had capsized and split in two. They were really fatigued and shaken up,” Byron said.

“You could only see them when they came up on the waves, but once we reached them, the water was shallow enough to help them get back safely.”

Despite having no formal rescue training, Byron credits instinct, community support, and a strong sense of responsibility.

“If someone’s in danger and you’re able to help, I feel like you just have to, it’s the Australian way,” he said.

Byron’s parents said they were proud of his actions, though he remains characteristically modest.

“I think it’s just something you grow up with,” Byron explained. “It comes from family, my school and the wider community. Helping others is just part of who we are.”

Whitsunday Anglican School Principal Andrew Wheaton praised Byron for demonstrating courage and compassion.

“Byron demonstrated true courage, compassion and determined judgment in what was a very difficult situation,” Mr Wheaton said.

“We are incredibly proud of the way he and others responded, putting the safety of others first. True service in action, and we applaud their bravery.”

As he prepares to begin his final year of schooling, Byron hopes the focus remains on community and looking out for one another.

“Anyone would have done the same thing,” he said.

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Byron Goodin assists with water rescue. Photo credit: Mike Duff
Whitsunday Anglican School's Byron Goodin. Photo source: Whitsunday Anglican School

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Dr Julia Evans admits she was “gobsmacked” when she learned she had been nominated for Citizen of the Year. The nomination came as a complete surprise to Julia, who prefers to work quietly behind the scenes rather than seek recognition for her efforts.

“It was not the intention,” she said.

“You don’t set out to get the accolades. I think if you do set out to get recognition, then the outcomes  may look different.”

Julia and her husband Richard relocated to the region in early 2022, arriving without established networks but with a clear intention to become active members of the community.

Being part of the community was something extremely important to them both.

Julia had spent much of her career consulting with organisations across Australia. She also runs 852 Press, a publishing services company established during the pandemic to help everyday Australians navigate the self-publishing process.

Soon after arriving in the region, Julia joined the local Chamber of Commerce, initially wanting to join as a member before seeing the liaison role advertising. She joined at a pivotal time with the Whitsundays Chamber and Proserpine Chamber combining.

From there, her involvement expanded organically, she recalls that people in regional areas wear multiple hats and are always giving back where they can, to benefit the community.

Over the past three years, Julia has been involved in a wide range of voluntary initiatives, including supporting the fundraising campaign to rebuild the Proserpine Whitsunday Uniting Church, helping revive the region’s Writers Festival in 2024, serving on the board of Bendigo Community Bank, and acting as a strategic advisor to Creative Connections Whitsundays.

She describes her contributions as a “package of work” rather than a list of individual achievements, much of it focused on connecting people, facilitating conversations and making business connect.

Underlying Julia’s approach is a strong personal philosophy centred on service, integrity and shared responsibility.

“If you’ve got skills and you’ve got the willingness and ability, you have an obligation to give back,” she said.

But she believes contribution comes with responsibility and trust first.

By training, Julia is a philosopher, with a doctorate focused on small business education in Australia, research that has informed government submissions and attracted attention from national regulators. While the title occasionally earns her the affectionate nickname ‘Dr J’, she is quick to downplay it.

Despite the honour of the nomination,  Julia admits being in the spotlight feels uncomfortable.

She loves the behind-the-scenes work. For example, she  has heavily involved in the Whitsundays Business Conference and the Whitsunday  Business Award collaboration with Council and Bowen Chamber of Commerce. Bringing things to life from master plans and run sheets is where she gets the most joy and reward.

Rather than focusing on her own recognition, Julia says she is looking forward to learning more about the other nominees, their  contributions being made across the community and hearing their story.

“Our community is only as strong as what we all put into it,” she said.

“It’s not one person’s or one organisation’s responsibility. We all have a role to play.

“Communities thrive when people share their skills, act with care, and keep trying to do better for each other and for the future.”

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Julia Evans. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Funding is in place from both state and federal governments to help people recover from damage and flooding brought on by ex-tropical cyclone Koji and extreme weather.

$26.6 Milllion in Federal Government Funding
The Albanese and Crisafulli Governments have today committed a further $26.6 million towards long-term recovery in flood devastated parts of north, north-west and central Queensland.

This funding will target recovery for primary producers, small businesses, flood clean-up, and mental health support.

Measures include an $11.32 million Primary Producer Support Package for impacted farmers, $9.98 million Disaster Recovery Grants for small businesses and a $4.26 million Mental Health Program to fund psychosocial health and wellbeing intiatives for flood affected communities and vulnerable Queenslanders.

Flood Hardship Payments
The Whitsunday Council can access DRFA support for their response and recovery activities with disaster loans of up to $250,000 available for impacted small businesses across Burdekin, Mackay and Whitsunday.

Sport and Racing Club Recovery
The Crisafulli Government is delivering financial assistance for eligible Queensland sport and racing organisations impacted by recent significant weather events. Grants of up to $5000 are accessible through the Crisafulli Government’s Disaster Recovery Program. Funding is available now, with the Crisafulli Government’s Sport and Recreation Disaster Recovery Program (SRDRP) open for the next three months to help organisations affected by ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji and the North Queensland Monsoon Trough. This funding seeks to rebuild vital sporting facilities that were adversely impacted across the region.

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Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins and Premier David Crisafulli visited disaster affected areas last week. Photo source: Whitsunday Regional Council

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By Sebastian Conidi

Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc have been hard at work cleaning the seas and foreshores in the aftermath of Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji. The not-for-profit organisation have put in extra hours to minimise the damage of ocean debris on natural habitats and wildlife.

"Our main initiative is tackling marine debris - so when an event like this happens it does a lot of damage to boats and things wash up onshore," said programs co-ordinator Kelly Cronin.

"That will end up having an impact on marine life if we don't tackle it on land. We really hold the community together to try and help out as much as we can."

The team of volunteers have been cleaning up across the sea and on land in the weeks following the extreme weather event. More than 150 volunteers worked alongside the Eco Barge crew during the operation, aiding with smaller debris and hazardous fragments to protect marine life and coastal environments during this critical recovery period.

Despite the efforts, the impact on local marine life won't be seen immediately.

"Our goal is to try and remove that thread as much as possible so that when tides and winds change it doesn't all float back out into the islands and reef. It will impact water quality which does then negatively impact marine life."

The initiative has been met with great community support.

"A lot people have been joining the community and cleaning up as much as they can, which is great. It definitely makes our life a bit easier."

Eco Barge have cleaned at sites across Cannonvale and Airlie Beach thanks to the support of volunteers. The team managed to remove more than 9 tonnes of debris in just five days - a commendable effort. Volunteering is always open for long term cleaning initiatives and can be done through the sign up page on their website.

"It's been amazing seeing all the help. Many hands make really light work. The Whitsunday Regional Council have been really supportive as well," said Kelly.

Land based cleanups with a tip truck were funded entirely through ongoing public donations, ensuring a swift response to the unplanned event.

"After a cyclone, time matters," said Libby Edge, Founder & CEO of Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc.

"The debris was sitting right on our foreshores. If it wasn't removed quickly, it would have ended up in our bays and around our islands, impacting marine life and places our community care about."

Eco Barge have been dedicated to keeping seas clean for 16 years, removing more than 70 tonnes of debris from post-storm and cyclone events along the Airlie to Cannonvale coastlines.

"This was an urgnet response, not a planned event", Libby said.

"The ability to mobilise so quickly comes from long term-community support and strong local partnerships."

Volunteers were generously thanked with meals and ice-cream from Gelatissimo and Zambrero.

It is great to see the work being done to ensure the protection of Whitsunday's beautiful marine environments.

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The team cleaning at Cannonvale Beach.

Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi

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By Sebastian Conidi

At just 21, Airlie Beach local Hugo Van Blarcom has achieved impressive feats in the world of sailing, although he did not discover his passion as early as expected. After losing his father at 16, Hugo was encouraged by his mum to start working on boats, helping him find a sense of purpose. While working on sailing boats in Airlie Beach, Hugo fell in love with the racing side of the sport, first competing in Airlie Beach Race Week.

“It’s one of those things I fell in love with straight away,” Hugo said.

Having completed a series of local races, Hugo turned his attention to offshore racing. In recent years, he has competed in the Brisbane to Gladstone, Sydney to Southport, and Southport to Mackay races, earning awards and trophies along the way.

Hugo then decided to take the plunge, committing more time to racing by competing in Airlie Beach Race Week, Hamilton Island Race Week, and Magnetic Island Race Week, completing two and a half months of consecutive sailing. After moving to Sydney in September, Hugo sailed up to four times a week, taking advantage of the many offshore opportunities the city offered. He eventually decided to participate in the iconic Sydney to Hobart race.

“It was just an incredible experience. It was an honour to be able to do it on such a great boat.”

Hugo had the privilege of racing on the legendary Bacardi, an iconic yacht that has competed in countless races over the past few decades.

“For me, the first 36 hours were quite shocking. At the end of the day, however, it is another yacht race. When you love something so much and you really commit to it, you will go through anything to get it done and reach the finish line.”

Hugo credits the Whitsunday community with playing an important role in fostering his passion for sailing.

“Everyone I have ever sailed with has always been a big supporter. Back in Airlie Beach, I sailed on the Treasure8, run by Rob Davis. Rob has always been a huge influence in my sailing life. He was friends with my dad and has been a bit of a father figure to me. Every time we go sailing, it is just so much fun. He is the king of dad jokes.”

Support for Hugo’s career extends throughout the broader community.

“I had support from everyone at the club, from commodores and presidents to members and punters.”

That support reaches beyond sailing, with Hugo reflecting on how the Whitsundays’ community spirit helps keep people motivated.

“It’s a nice feeling when everyone bands together. It’s something you don’t get much in other places. When you need people, or people need you, you’re there for them, no questions asked. Everyone puts aside their differences and comes together as one.”

Like many sailors, Hugo feels a deep connection to the water, which continues to drive his passion.

“There’s definitely some sort of connection to the water. As soon as I go offshore, I put my phone away and embrace the whole experience.”

With so many achievements already under his belt, it is clear Hugo is primed for a successful sailing career. The Whitsunday community will be watching his journey with great enthusiasm.

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Photo supplied

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Record Numbers Signal Global Rise

With the Whitsunday Coast Airport recording the highest monthly passenger numbers in its history - such figures demonstrate the region is moving beyond it's reputation as a seasonal gateway, rather, transforming into an international hub.

Official airline figures for December confirmed that 53,915 passengers travelled through the airport, marking a 13% increase year-on-year with a third consecutive month exceeding 50,000 passengers. The results demonstrate that such activity is not a one off spike, but part of a growing and sustained trend.

Although activity was once seasonal - driven by holiday peaks and post-pandemic recovery - such movement now signifies high volume demand, demonstrating the Whitsunday regions development into a more globally competitive space.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins emphasised the importance of momentum as opposed to figures of a single record month.

"One record month is exciting. Three in a row signal something much bigger," said Ry.

"It shows the Whitsundays is no longer just a peaked-season destination, but a place people are choosing consistently from across Australia and internationally."

Mayor Collins clarified the significance of sustained growth and how it aligned with the regions rising profile for international-standard tourism, events and marine activity - where reliable access and capacity are critical.

It is clear this growth in activity signals a great boost for the Whitsunday's region, as the council seeks to bolster industry, strengthening the economy and promoting interest for the future.

"The momentum will become increasingly important as the Whitsundays continues to position itself for future international sailing oppurtuinities in the lead-up to Brisbane 2032."

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Photo Source: Whitsunday Regional Council

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Staying active in the Whitsundays just got a whole lot more fun, thanks to local mobile fitness business 4 Fitness, which is bringing flexible workouts to both land and water.

Operating locally for the past two years, 4 Fitness is led by owner and personal trainer Ellie Palmero, who has built a loyal following by taking fitness out of the gym and into the community. From living rooms and backyards to resort pools and the Proserpine Pool, Ellie’s approach is all about accessibility, variety, and enjoying movement.

One of the standout offerings is the popular aqua fitness program, welcoming both locals and visitors looking to stay active while soaking up the Whitsundays lifestyle. Held at Whitsunday Resorts and the Proserpine Pool, Ellie runs three aqua fitness sessions each week, along with a crowd-favourite deep-water running class all available for just $10 per session, with no bookings required.

If you’ve never tried aqua fitness, it’s an effective workout. Using specialised aquatic dumbbells, noodles, and aqua belts, for clients to enjoy a full-body session that builds strength and fitness while being kind to the joints.

“The water gives you great resistance without the impact,” Ellie said.

“You can take it easy or really push yourself everyone works at their own pace, and all fitness levels are welcome.”

The deep-water running sessions are making a splash of their own, using aqua belts in the deep end of the pool to fire up core muscles and deliver a challenging workout that goes well beyond simple running motions.

No two classes are ever the same, with varied playlists and rotating focuses on legs, arms, core, cardio, and stretching keeping things fresh rain or shine.

For those who prefer one on one support, 4 Fitness also offers mobile personal training, meeting clients at home or in their preferred location. Programs are fully tailored, whether the goal is strength, weight loss, general fitness, or living a better lifestyle.

“For people who don’t feel confident walking into a gym, this is a great alternative,” Ellie said.

“It’s about helping people move more, feel better, and enjoy a healthier lifestyle.”

With strong local support and a growing mix of residents and travellers joining in, 4 Elements Fitness is continuing to build momentum proving that fitness in the Whitsundays can be flexible, welcoming, and a whole lot of fun.

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Happy New Year! Our Whitsundays office has delivered an exceptional result for a highly specialised team of just three agents.

In 2025 we achieved multiple record-breaking sales, setting new benchmarks across the region. From much-loved family homes to the Whitsundays’ most significant estates, our results reflect a consistent, strategic approach, regardless of price point.

We don’t define luxury by a price, it is defined by experience, presentation, global reach and execution. Exceptional care, insight and professionalism are applied to every property we represent.

As a locally based team who live and invest in the Whitsundays, we are proud to see continued momentum building into 2026, with further growth on the horizon.

Queensland Sotheby’s Whitsundays remains the agency of choice in the region, whether selling a family home or an iconic coastal estate.

We wish everyone a prosperous 2026.

Thinking of selling? Let’s talk.

Wayne Singleton 0416 024 168
Lynn Milsom 0415 039 060
Joe Bishop 0415 070 114

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