Left to right: Mayor Ry Collins, BCE Chairman Paul Mclaughin, Bowen State High School Principal Robert Harris, David Mardell of Murray Bay Project, Mick Spencer from Agave Farm Blue Sky Drinks and Will Weaver, GM of Sunwater Projects.  Photo sourced: Facebook

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Emerging developments, future industries and the changing face of education took centre stage as business and community leaders gathered for the latest Bowen Collinsville Enterprise (BCE) Business Breakfast at the North Queensland Cruising Yacht Club on July 3rd.  

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Hosted by BCE Chairman Paul McLaughlin, the breakfast welcomed a diverse mix of business owners, community leaders and representatives from local government, education and industry.

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The regular networking event provided attendees with updates on major projects, emerging industries and initiatives helping shape the future of the region.

Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins opened the morning with an overview of Council's 2026-27 Budget, outlining key investments and the significant capital works planned across Bowen and the wider region.

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Bowen State High School Principal Robert Harris then explored one of the most talked-about topics in modern education, artificial intelligence.  

His presentation examined both the opportunities and challenges AI presents in the classroom, while outlining how schools can better prepare their students to coincide with modern technology.  

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Attendees also heard from David Mardell, who provided an update on the proposed Murray Bay development, with plans for the exclusive resort project highlighting the potential for further tourism investment along the region's coastline.

Agriculture and manufacturing were spotlighted by Mick Spencer, who discussed the rapid progress of the Australian Agave Project since acquiring the farm last year. Guests received an insight into the industry's growth, as well as the upcoming launch of SollosSpirits and its future cellar door.

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Rounding out the presentations, Sunwater Projects General Manager Will Weaver delivered a regional water infrastructure update, including progress on the Bowen Pipeline and the projects helping secure long-term water supply for North Queensland communities.

With infrastructure, education, tourism and agriculture all featured on the agenda, the breakfast highlighted both the diversity of the region's economy and the collaborative approach driving its ideal growth.

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Every five years, Australians are asked to take part in something that might seem simple on the surface — the national Census.

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But for regional communities like the Whitsundays, the Census is actually one of the most important tools we have to help shape our future.

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On Tuesday 11 August 2026, households across the country will complete the Census, helping build a picture of who lives where, how communities are growing and what services and infrastructure are needed into the future.

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For the Whitsundays, getting an accurate count matters.

We are one of the fastest-growing regional areas in Queensland. We continue to see strong population growth, increasing tourism pressures, housing demand and growing expectations around roads, community infrastructure, healthcare, sporting facilities and emergency services.

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Recently at our State of the Region event, we challenged ourselves and our community to “Think Big” about the future of the Whitsundays.

That includes major long-term planning around infrastructure, liveability, economic growth and our vision to become the Home of Olympic Sailing for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

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But strong advocacy starts with strong data.

The Census helps governments understand the true scale of growth and demand in regional communities like ours, and it plays a major role in future funding and infrastructure decisions.

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Importantly, it also strengthens Council’s ability to advocate for projects and investment that will support our region for decades to come.

Whether it’s planning for future roads, community hubs, parks, libraries, sporting facilities, housing or disaster resilience, reliable data matters.

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If regional communities are undercounted, there is a real risk they can also be underplanned for.

The Census is also important for local businesses, community groups and service providers who rely on accurate population information to plan for future investment and services.

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This isn’t just about statistics.

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It’s about making sure the Whitsundays is properly recognised for the community we are today — and the community we are becoming.

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I’d encourage every household across the Whitsundays to take part on Census night and help ensure our region’s voice is heard clearly.

Because every person counted helps strengthen the future of our region.

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Rising Star winner Shontelle Buchanan of Bowen Rail Company. Photo supplied: Julia Evans

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One year on from the inaugural Whitsunday Business Awards, winners say the recognition has delivered far more than a trophy—providing confidence, credibility and an opportunity to celebrate the people behind their success.

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Established to recognise excellence across the Whitsundays, the Awards celebrate businesses and individuals demonstrating leadership, innovation, sustainability, customer service and community impact.

As applications for the 2026 Awards draw to a close, last year's winners are encouraging others to put themselves forward.

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Business Leader of the Year, Kellee Fogg of Whitsunday Law, said the award recognised the collective effort of her entire team.

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"Winning this award was an incredibly proud moment for, not just me, but the entire team as it reflects their efforts as well as mine... It reinforces the importance of leading with integrity, supporting others to succeed, and continually striving to make a positive impact on our team, our clients and our community."

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Rising Star winner Shontelle Buchanan of Bowen Rail Company said the award recognised her dedication as an apprentice and provided new opportunities for professional growth.

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"It was incredibly rewarding to have my efforts acknowledged, and the experience has given me greater confidence in my career... I would encourage businesses to nominate their trainees and apprentices, as it's a fantastic way to recognise their commitment and achievements."

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Community Champion winner Bowen Tourism and Business was recognised for its outstanding contribution to the region through tourism promotion, volunteer engagement and community initiatives.

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Manager Leanne Abernethy said, "To receive an award that recognised the meaningful difference we make through community contribution and initiatives was a very proud moment for the entire team... We have so many great organisations and businesses in the Whitsundays region that deserve to be recognised."

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Applications for the 2026 Whitsunday Business Awards close at 11:59pm on Friday 17 July. With categories spanning business excellence, leadership, customer service, community impact and innovation, the Awards continue to celebrate the businesses and individuals helping shape the future of the Whitsundays: www.whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au/business-awards/

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As last year's winners demonstrate, entering is about more than winning – it's an opportunity to reflect on achievements, celebrate your team and showcase the passion and impact behind your business.

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Bowen visitor centre team with their Certificate of Accreditation. Photo Supplied: Leanne Abernethy.  

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The team at Bowen Tourism and Business are celebrating after welcoming a record number of visitors in the past financial year.

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A total of 65,638 people visited the Bowen Visitor Information Centre next to the Big Mango in the 12 months to June 30, 2026.

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A further 4078 people visited the information booth at Bowen’s Front Beach – taking the total number of visitors to 69,716.

This represents an increase of more than 16% on the year prior.

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Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy, said the team was very proud of these numbers, particularly given the uncertain economic climate in recent months with raising interest rates and fuel prices and the overseas conflict putting pressure on fuel supply.

“In recent years, we have continued to welcome more visitors each year, but a 16% increase is beyond anyone’s expectations,” Leanne said.

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“To welcome an average of more than 1340 people a week is a significant increase on just five years ago when we were welcoming just over 40,000 people per year.

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“We have also seen an increase in the number of international visitors coming to Bowen.

“They now make up more than 17% of our total visitors.”

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Chair of Bowen Tourism and Business, Jenn Honnery, said the most significant highlight of these numbers was the number of people taking the detour into Bowen, not just calling in between Townsville and Mackay.

“The team welcomed more than 25,000 people on day trips in the past financial year – mainly from Airlie Beach,” Jenn said.  

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“Of the total number of visitors, more than 17,000 were staying for at least one night in Bowen.

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“The total number of visitors has continued to increase in recent years, and the most pleasing statistic is the percentage of people now going into Bowen for a day or more – and that benefits every Bowen business.

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“The information centre is conveniently located on the highway but is 5km from Bowen.

“The team do a great job encouraging that Bowen visit and that has resulted in about 62% of all our visitors spending money in the town.

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“The number of people making a day trip to Bowen when on holidays in Airlie Beach is on the up and that economic dispersal of visitor spend is important to the regional economy.”  

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AT A GLANCE

Total visitors at info centre and info booth - 69,716

Weekly average – 1340 people

Total international visitors – 17%

Total visitors spending a day or more in Bowen – 62%

Increase in visitors from last year – 16%

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The community hub’s projected appearance. Photo sourced: Whitsunday Regional Council

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Progress continues at Cannonvale Community Hub, with early works now complete and the project moving confidently into its next stage.

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Over recent months, crews have completed site establishment, construction fencing, earthworks and the building pad, laying the foundations for the community hub to begin taking shape.

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Throughout July, the work focuses on installing bored piers and pad footings, stormwater infrastructure, electrical conduits and new sewer and water connections.

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Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the project represented one of the region's most significant community investments and was an important step towards delivering modern facilities for the Whitsundays' growing population.

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"It's exciting to see this project continuing to take shape and moving from site preparation into the next phase of construction," Mayor Collins said.

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"The Cannonvale Community Hub will become the heart of our growing community, bringing together a modern library, customer service centre, meeting rooms and flexible community spaces in one welcoming location."

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Mayor Collins envisions the Hub as a place where all residents can connect, helping provide a good learning setting and access to important Council and community services for decades to come.

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"This is about investing in the future of Cannonvale and the Whitsundays,” Mayor Collins said.  

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“As our region continues to grow, it's important we deliver the community infrastructure needed to support that growth and create places where people can come together."

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The new Cannonvale Community Hub is a $30 million project proudly supported by a $15 million Australian Government Growing Regions Program grant, alongside significant funding from Whitsunday Regional Council.

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As work continues through July, crews will carry out some construction near Beames Crescent, including underboring beneath the road. Nearby residents can expect periods of increased construction activity and traffic while these works are completed.  

To help keep the project moving, construction traffic will continue to use Shute Harbour Road and the Garden Shack entrance. Works are typically carried out between 6.30am and 6.30pm, Monday to Saturday.

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Mayor Collins thanked nearby residents and park users for their patience while construction progresses.

"We appreciate the understanding shown by our neighbours and the community while these important works are underway,” Mayor Collins said.

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“There will be some temporary inconvenience, but the end result will be a fantastic community asset that future generations will enjoy."

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Residents can keep up to date with construction progress and project information by visiting Council's Cannonvale Community Hub project page.

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Damages done to Airlie Beach foreshore grass. Photo sourced: Whitsunday Regional Council  

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Just days before thousands of people descended on Airlie Beach for Between the Tides, Whitsunday Regional Council's Parks and Gardens team was forced to face the damages caused by E-scooters performing skids across the Airlie Foreshore.

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The damage comes after the team spent the previous two weeks preparing the popular precinct for the Queensland Music Trails event, refreshing garden beds, laying mulch and carefully maintaining the turf to ensure the area was ready to welcome locals and visitors.

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Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said it was incredibly disappointing to see one of the region's most valued public spaces damaged, particularly after the effort invested by Council staff.

"To see that hard work damaged in a matter of minutes was heartbreaking for the people who take so much pride in maintaining these community spaces,” Mayor Collins said.

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Council's Parks and Gardens team spent the following two days repairing the damaged turf so the foreshore would once again be ready ahead of the weekend's festivities.

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Mayor Collins said every hour spent repairing avoidable damage came at the expense of other maintenance work across the Whitsundays.

"Our parks and public spaces belong to everyone, and they deserve to be treated with respect," he said.

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"Every hour our crews spent repairing this unnecessary damage was time they could have been improving other parks and open spaces across the Whitsundays."

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The incident has sparked some criticism online, with people commenting things like “Easy, ban the bloody scooter…Scourge of the planet,”, as well as others asking for potential places for them to ride to avoid this.

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The debate comes as Queensland's new e-mobility laws came into effect this month, introducing stricter rules for e-scooter and e-bike riders to instill more road-safe responsibility.  

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Among the changes are a 12km/h speed limit on footpaths, increased fines for offences including careless riding, and new licensing requirements that will begin rolling out from August 31. The reforms follow a statewide review into e-mobility safety earlier this year.  

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Council is asking anyone who witnessed the incident or has information that could help identify those responsible to contact either Whitsunday Regional Council or Queensland Police.

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The Queensland community and State government efforts to protect the Great Barrier Reef have not gone unnoticed, with UNESCO announcing this week that it has decided not to list the World Heritage site as "in danger".  

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The recognition follows the State Government's record-breaking $330.5 million Budget commitment to reef protection in the 2026-27 budget, with the funding set to support water quality improvements, practical conservation projects and long-term management of the World Heritage-listed ecosystem.  

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Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the draft decision recognised the efforts of Queenslanders working to protect the Reef for future generations.

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"Queenslanders care deeply about the Reef and we welcome the draft decision because it recognises the progress being made to conserve it," Minister Powell said.

"Our focus remains on practical action and delivering outcomes that protect the Reef and support the regional communities and jobs that depend on it.

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However, a local conservation group has been left unsatisfied by the decision, claiming it to be a missed opportunity to acknowledge the real issues the reef faces.  

“These threats have not disappeared simply because the Reef has avoided an "in danger" listing,” said Whitsundays Conservation Council President Tony Fontes.  

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“An "in danger" listing is not a sanction or a mark of failure, it is an internationally recognised conservation mechanism designed to focus global attention on World Heritage sites facing serious and ongoing threats.”

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UNESCO's draft decision is expected to be considered for formal adoption by the World Heritage Committee later this July.  

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Dash Cam footage of motorist. Photo sourced: Queensland Police.  

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A ride along the Bruce ended with a hefty fine, a six-month licence suspension and a stark warning from police after a motorcyclist was allegedly clocked travelling at 205km/h near Bowen.  

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The Mackay highway patrol were doing their routine patrols outside of Bowen this past Saturday, when at 12:40 pm, a motorist flew by them going 105 kilometres over the speed limit.  

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The 23 year-old New South Wales man was intercepted and charged with a traffic infringement notice for speeding over 40kms, while also receiving a $1,986 fine, eight demerit points and a 6 month suspension of his license.  

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Mackay Highway Patrol Officer in Charge Senior Sergeant Shane Edwards said the speed detected was one of the most alarming readings officers can encounter.  

“Speeds like this leave virtually no opportunity to react if something goes wrong, dramatically increasing the likelihood of a fatal outcome,” said Senior Sergeant Shane Edwards.

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“Driving at such excessive speeds dramatically reduces a driver’s ability to react to unexpected situations and significantly increases the severity of a crash.

“We know the devastating impact road trauma has on families and communities therefore every offence detected is an opportunity to prevent a tragedy from occurring on our roads.”

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With 157 lives lost in Queensland this year as of July 5th and 11 being from the Mackay Whitsundays District, Senior Sergeant Edwards says motorists need to be vigilant in abiding by safety laws.

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MP Jarrod Bleijie with the Wind Farm Action Group. Photo sourced: Whitsundays Wind Farm Action Group (WWFA)

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The proposed Mt Challenger Wind Farm has taken another step into the spotlight, with Queensland's Deputy Premier visiting the site last week, as debate over the project continues to grow across the Whitsundays.  

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Queensland Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie met with local landholders and members of the Whitsundays Wind Farm Action Group (WWFA) to hear their concerns about the proposed development.

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“The Crisafulli Government is for all of Queensland and we promised to listen,’ Premier Bleijie said.

“Thank you for having me on your back deck, with the most spectacular views of your cane farm and the mountains.”

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The proposed Mt Challenger Wind Farm, located between Proserpine and Bowen, would feature up to 30 turbines, capable of powering 240 megawatts or thousands of homes through renewable energy.  

While the residents haven’t expressed issues with renewable energy, the location of it has frustrated many farmers that call this area home, largely forming the need for the current Whitsundays Wind Farm Action Group.  

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“They're proposing to put those turbines 300 metres from my boundary fence, where I'm trying to build a house in the future,” said nearby farmer Damien Friederichs.  

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“I think people need to understand that we're not against the renewable side of it, it's just the location is wrong.”  

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“When I found out they were putting this turbine right at my back door, where I'm trying to build a house that I've been setting up for 15 years, I got on board with these guys to make sure that this does not happen.”

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On top of impeding Damien's land and future property concerns, such as subdividing for his daughter, he fears the project could affect the aerial spraying on his cane farm, increase fire risk, raise insurance costs and leave neighbouring landholders carrying the impacts despite not hosting the turbines.  

"I just cannot believe that the host thought that it was acceptable,” Damien said.  

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For the WWFA, the Premier’s visit was a positive sight they’d been waiting for.  

“Well, it was a pleasure to have him turn up because it means that we're reaching the right people,” Damien said.  

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“Being from a farming background himself, he could very well resonate with how we were feeling and the problems that we have.”  

Alinta Energy, the developer behind the proposed wind farm, say they are continuing to gather evidence and community feedback as part of the planning process.  

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"It’s still early days for the Mt Challenger Wind Farm,” said a spokesperson for Alinta Energy.  

“We’re continuing to work through a range of environmental, technical and social assessments so we can provide clear, evidence‑based information to the whole community.  

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"We understand some community members have concerns about the development of wind farms in the area, and we are listening carefully to their feedback.”

Alinta Energy said, if approved, the project could deliver construction and operational jobs, local procurement opportunities, road and infrastructure upgrades and environmental improvement programs, while also supporting Queensland's renewable energy network.

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The company will also host community information sessions at the Proserpine Tennis Club on Wednesday, July 29, from 4pm to 7pm, and the Flagstaff Hill Convention Centre in Bowen on Thursday, July 30, from 10am to 2pm, where residents can speak with members of the project team and ask questions about the proposal.

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Cassius McLeod at Dingo Beach, the coastal community he proudly calls home. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville

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Dingo Beach Local Cassius McLeod has been named a finalist in the 2026 Queensland Training Awards' North Queensland Regional Final, with his dedication, compassion and commitment earning recognition among the region's best.

Celebrating 65 years in 2026, the Queensland Training Awards recognise the apprentices, trainees, students, teachers, trainers, employers and organisations shaping the future of Queensland's workforce across 10 award categories.

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A trainee nursing assistant at Bowen Hospital completing a Certificate III in Health Services Assistance, Cassius is one of this year's finalists for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year award. The category recognises First Nations students who demonstrate excellence in vocational education while inspiring others through their achievements.

“It's a proud moment for myself and for my family leading into the awards,” Cassius said.  

“It really does reflect the support I've been given and how hard I've worked towards my goals and aspirations.”

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A year 12 at Proserpine State High School with a Certificate III in Health Services Assistance, Cassius spends his days gaining hands-on experience as a trainee nursing assistant at Bowen Hospital. The year-long placement will see him graduate as an Assistant in Nursing while also providing a direct pathway into university nursing studies.

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With an Aboriginal father and a Māori mother, Cassius hopes his journey will encourage other First Nations students to pursue opportunities, proving that where you grow up doesn't have to define where you can go. As a Dingo Beach local, he understands the value these opportunities can provide to young people in regional communities.  

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"Being a First Nations person in such a rural, remote area like Bowen or the Whitsundays, it's really good to get opportunities like this because it is very hard as it is being out here," he said.

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Healthcare wasn’t Cassius’s initial dream but while unsure about what he would want to do after school, he decided to give it a go, later receiving his Certificate III Health Services Assistance  

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"I didn't like anything to do with health at first, didn't like blood,” Cassius said.

“I just gave this a shot, and it was actually pretty interesting."

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Working as a trainee nursing assistant at Bowen Hospital, Cassius helps patients with everyday tasks, including showering, eating, toileting and mobility. He also assists nurses in caring for elderly and palliative patients wherever an extra pair of hands is needed.

"It really does help me because I think you can take it anywhere with you," he said.

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"Especially knowing how to handle elderly patients without risking more injuries to them, just having hands-on skills is really helpful."

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He also credits the nurses, doctors and allied health staff at Bowen Hospital for helping him grow throughout the placement.

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"They really do help me, and they've helped me so far in my journey."

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The winners will be crowned at the 2026 Queensland Training Awards for North Queensland Regional Final in Townsville on Friday 31st July.  

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VMR team helping stranded tinny near Gloucester Island. Photo sourced: Marine Rescue Whitsundays  

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A routine afternoon quickly turned into a rescue mission for the Volunteer Marine Rescue (VMR) Whitsunday crew, who travelled to Gloucester Island to assist two people stranded aboard a broken-down tinny in shallow waters.  

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With Bowen’s rescue crew already responding to another task, the call was redirected to the VMR Whitsundays team, whose crew of skipper Bill, senior crew Mike, communications officer Ray and crew member Mark departed from Coral Sea Marina shortly before 3 pm.  

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After navigating Gloucester Passage on a falling tide, the crew arrived to find the disabled vessel exactly where expected but faced the reality that it was sitting in just one metre of water, too shallow for their rescue vessel to safely approach.

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Fortunately, another fishing boat nearby stepped in to tow the stranded tinny into deeper water, allowing the Marine Rescue crew to safely transfer the two occupants aboard and begin the return journey.

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The vessel then headed for Dingo Beach boat ramp, where the team used their tender to guide the disabled vessel through the shallow approach as low tide set in.

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With the tinny safely ashore, the crew returned to Coral Sea Marina, wrapping up another volunteer mission that highlighted the teamwork, skill and dedication of those who answer the call when someone who needs help on the water.

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The foundations for more than 3,000 future homes are now being laid, with construction officially underway on the $52 million Build Whitsundays program.  

The first stage will deliver almost five kilometres of new water mains through Proserpine, removing long-standing infrastructure constraints and strengthening the region's water network.  

While the pipes will remain hidden beneath the ground, they will help unlock future residential growth across Proserpine, Cannonvale, Airlie Beach and Bowen South, creating the essential infrastructure needed to support one of Queensland's fastest-growing regional communities.  

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Build Whitsundays Program Moving from Promise to Progress

A major housing milestone has been reached in the Whitsundays, with construction officially beginning on the $52 million Build Whitsundays program, unlocking the infrastructure needed to deliver more than 3,000 future homes.

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Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie joined Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins to mark the milestone, with early works now underway on the first stage of the program.

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Mayor Ry Collins said the project demonstrated what could be achieved when governments worked together to turn funding commitments into construction on the ground.

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"Today isn't about another announcement—it's about delivery," Mayor Collins said.

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"Less than a year ago this funding was announced. Council has since appointed Killard's as the principal contractor, works have commenced, and today we're standing on a live construction site. People want to see action, and that's exactly what they're getting."

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The first project is delivering more than 4.8 kilometres of new water mains in Proserpine, removing a major infrastructure constraint that has prevented further residential development.

Mayor Collins said while the new infrastructure would largely remain out of sight beneath the ground, its impact would be felt across the region for decades to come.

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"Housing doesn't happen without infrastructure. Most people will never see the pipes being installed beneath our streets, but they'll certainly see the outcome—more homes for local families, more opportunities for workers to live locally and a stronger future for one of Queensland's fastest-growing regional communities."

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Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie said the Residential Activation Fund was delivering practical outcomes for growing regional communities.

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"The Crisafulli Government is investing in the roads, water, sewerage and drainage infrastructure needed to unlock new housing and support growing communities," Mr Bleijie said.

"These projects are proof that our Residential Activation Fund is delivering real outcomes on the ground and helping bring more homes to market sooner."

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Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm said the investment would help ensure the region could continue to grow while maintaining the lifestyle that attracts people to the Whitsundays.

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"The Whitsundays is one of Queensland's fastest-growing regional areas, and this investment means more local families and workers will have access to the housing they need without sacrificing the lifestyle that makes our region so special," Ms Camm said.

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The Build Whitsundays program includes major water and sewer infrastructure upgrades across Proserpine, Cannonvale and Bowen South and is expected to be completed by October 2027, providing the essential foundations for thousands of new homes across the region.

There are new things to consider when buying real estate in Australia.

Up until last month, people buying real estate in Sydney really only considered the capital growth they were expecting to create within just a few years of making their purchase.

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Paying $1.2 million for an inner-city two-bedroom apartment didn’t matter so much if it was going to be worth $1.5 million two years later.

It didn’t really matter that the crap rental returns you got for that price didn’t go anywhere near covering the mortgage because the old negative gearing benefit meant you could claim the losses on your tax.

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Things have changed. Negative gearing has gone and prices are dropping in Sydney … so that $1.2 million apartment doesn’t look so enticing any more, even though it’s now $1.1 million.

Other cities have also been hit hard. Melbourne is now one of the cheapest cities in Australia to buy real estate. Although there are special Victorian reasons that come into play in that state.

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Victorians were bullied during COVID in a way that impacted small businesses in a disastrous way. The state’s debt is exorbitant, and no one seems to know how it gets paid back. Tobacco shops keep getting blown up by some underworld gang thing that the Government can’t control. They have metal boxes where people can hand in their machetes and that doesn’t appear to instil peace of mind in anyone.  

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Terrible Governments end up having an impact and it definitely has had one on property prices in Victoria.  

A quick scan of on-line property sites shows you that you can pick up a decent two-bedroom unit in an inner-city suburbs like St Kilda and Collingwood in the $400,000s. I saw a three-bedder in St Kilda advertised in the $500,000s.

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While those prices might seem like great value, there are reasons the market is so low. People don’t trust the state Government and its management of the economy and the obvious concern would be that even though the prices might be low, there is no guarantee of capital growth.

Capital growth has offered a warm embrace for investors in Australian real estate over many years. There has been an expectation that prices will go up. Obviously they will go up again but the questions is: Where will they go up, when and by how much?

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Unfortunately I don’t have the answer to that but I do find that when things get a bit blurry and uncertain, it’s good to stick to what you know … which, for me, is Mackay.

We have several advantages over many other markets. Our median price for houses, in the $600,000s, is a lot lower than bigger cities so more affordable for local people who, by the way, still need somewhere to live.

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And, with the end of negative gearing and the banning of borrowing for property out of self-managed super funds, lower prices and strong rental returns should become a key factor in real estate investment.

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Yes, investors want capital growth but I feel the focus will probably shift more to rental yield and the monthly return on investment.

Mackay’s rental returns are good and the purchase prices relatively low compared to other markets so there seems to me a good chance that our market will continue to be buoyed by those wanting to take advantage of that.

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Meanwhile the Mackay economy seems to be going well, driven by that crucial resource that is dug out of the ground and exported to countries that make steel.

I got strong offers on three properties this week so there is a feeling that while there has certainly been a change driven by national political factors, our market is moving through it, adjusting to the new information and still bubbling along.

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The only thing I would say is that if any of you bump into David Crisafulli tell him to dump those high-level coal royalties.  

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Queensland’s top real estate professionals and agencies are being called to step into the spotlight, with nominations now open for the Real Estate Institute of Queensland’s (REIQ) 2026 Awards for Excellence.

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REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella said the awards remained the state’s highest professional recognition in real estate and continued to adapt alongside the profession itself.

“The REIQ Awards for Excellence are the pinnacle of professional recognition in Queensland real estate, and each year we ensure the program remains contemporary, inclusive and reflective of the full scope of our profession,” Ms Mercorella said.

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“This year, we’re delighted to add a new Multi-Office Network of the Year category, recognising real estate agencies that operate as a unified multi-office network.

“It’s a category our members asked for, and it’s a great example of how the awards continue to evolve alongside the structure and sophistication of Queensland real estate businesses.”

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Ms Mercorella said there was even more incentive for members to nominate this year, with a pathway from the outset to national recognition in eligible categories through the Real Estate Institute of Australia’s (REIA) National Awards for Excellence (NAFE).

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The REIQ Awards for Excellence span individual and agency categories, with some split into regional and SEQ areas, across residential and commercial sales, property management, buyer’s agency, auctioneering, business broking, multimedia, innovation and community contribution.

Ms Mercorella said real estate professionals throughout Queensland could now start preparing and polishing their award nominations with the clock now ticking down.

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It’s time to shine! Nominations close on Sunday 12^th July 2026, with the winners announced at a spectacular awards gala on Saturday 31^st October 2026 at The Star Brisbane.

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Nominate now via awards.reiq.com

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Bianca O'Brien works with Blacks Real Estate as a Commercial Property Manager. Makayla Groves works as a Commercial Property Manager with Blacks Real Estate. Photo supplied

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Makayla Groves and Bianca O'Brien are part of the commercial property team at Blacks Real Estate, supporting landlords, tenants and business owners across the Mackay region.

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Working as Commercial Property Managers, Makayla and Bianca assist with the day-to-day management of commercial properties, helping clients navigate leasing and property management requirements across retail, office and industrial spaces.

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Based at the agency’s Wood Street office, the pair work closely with business clients throughout the region as part of Blacks Real Estate’s commercial division.

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Makayla Groves can be contacted on 07 4963 2522, while Bianca O’Brien can be contacted on 07 4963 2525.

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