Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
OPINION PIECE from the office of Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox There is no question that immigration into Australia is out of control. The government’s numbers are too high, and standards are too low. A sustainable migration program must consider our capacity to provide housing, healthcare, infrastructure and the essential services everyone relies on, and Australians must come first. But Labor’s decision to target Working Holiday Makers Visa holders is not the answer. These people filling vital gaps in our workforce are not the cause of Australia’s housing crisis. In many cases, they are living in accommodation provided by the very businesses that employ them. The National Farmers’ Federation has made the point that Working Holiday Makers generally stay in hostels, caravan parks or purpose-built on-farm accommodation. Resorts usually have on-site staff quarters. They are not the source of Australia’s housing shortage. So why is Labor making it harder for them to come here, when these workers fill genuine jobs that regional Australia holds? Working Holiday Makers fill approximately one in seven farm jobs nationally and are particularly important during peak agricultural periods, which for Dawson, it is right now! Farmers rely on these workers to plant, pick, pack and harvest the produce that ends up on Australian supermarket shelves. Having run one of Australia’s largest tomato farms, at times Working Holiday Makers made up more than 50 per cent of my workforce. Without them, much of our crop simply would not have been picked in time and rotted in the paddock. Some may say, why not employ the Australians who don’t have a job and are on “the dole”? Can I say, this does not work. Most farmers will employ Aussies over travelling backpackers, but many either don’t want to do the work or don’t turn up after the first day. Who picks the fruit or veggies then? Farmers are already warning that visa delays are leaving them without workers. The NFF says approvals that once took days are now facing processing times of up to three months, and this time frame can be the difference between harvesting a crop or losing it. That should concern every Australian already feeling the pressure at the supermarket checkout. The same problem is playing out in tourism. Across Dawson, Working Holiday Makers are an important part of the workforce supporting tourism and hospitality, particularly in the Whitsundays. They help fill shifts, work in hotels and restaurants, support tour operators and keep businesses running through their busiest periods. They also contribute to the local economy. They spend money on food, fuel, attractions and tours, supporting the small businesses that depend on a strong visitor economy. That is why tourism and business leaders across North Queensland are raising the alarm. They understand what happens when a regional business cannot get enough staff: opening hours are reduced, and services are cut, creating a downward spiral. We do need to reduce migration to sustainable levels. We need stronger integrity measures, and we need to crack down on rorts. But responsible migration policy means understanding which parts of the system are creating pressure and which parts are helping Australia function. Working Holiday Makers are not the problem. They are part of the workforce solution for regional. Australia. People have had a gutful of watching their standard of living go backwards. Groceries, fuel, housing and everyday expenses are already putting enormous pressure on families. The last thing Australians need is another reckless policy that makes it harder to produce food, harder to run regional businesses and harder for tourism operators to find the workers they need.
Read the full storySomeone sold a house in Sydney last week for $9 million less than they bought it for four or five years ago. The sellers had bought the property in Sydney’s eastern suburbs for $29 million and sold it for $20 million in a sale forced by their bank. I imagine the sellers are a little disappointed by the government’s decisions on negative gearing and capital gains tax and feeling pretty hurt by the increased interest rates. Australia’s interest rates are on the rise and are now sitting at levels not seen since 2011. Increased cost of living is hurting people around the country and interest rates are playing into that. But the impact of interest rates is not felt evenly around the country. The far-higher property prices mean people in the major cities suffer much more than regional areas with the rates increase. That is certainly not to say people in Mackay are unaffected by the cost of living; it’s just that the impact of interest rates increase on a $400,000 mortgage is much less than the impact on a $1m mortgage. There are other Mackay-specific factors that are in play when discussing the current housing market. The big factor is the role of coal in our economy. Most of the coal extracted and exported from our region is coking coal, which is used to make steel. The price of coking coal is around $280 a tonne, which is about 50 per cent up. Good activity in the coal market translates to good news for the Mackay economy, as it is an economic engine that other cities and regions just don’t have. Good activity in Bowen Basin flows throughout the Mackay economy; Paget workshops, transport, suppliers and related businesses all benefit. But so do other, non-mining-related businesses as they benefit from the general confidence and spending that goes on. The strong mining activity also means mines need to keep their staff levels up and that means more people moving to Mackay. Of course, Mackay is much more than a coal mining town but if the coal sector is going well those other areas definitely benefit. It is a confidence boost for Mackay people looking to get into the housing market and those wanting to upgrade or downsize. It also means continuing strong demand from people wanting to rent a property and it will be interesting to see what sort of activity that creates from investors. Investors have walked away from the big-city markets because they can no longer use negative gearing on established properties that do not have a sufficient yield to be positively geared. Negative gearing has never been a big thing in Mackay because our prices are lower and rental returns continue to be strong so many investors have a positively geared property. Around the country everyone is nervous about the state of play and the probability of more interest rate rises. But strong coal prices and an economy that is performing well mean Mackay might just be presenting an opportunity for buyers and sellers that doesn’t exist in other parts. I remember when national confidence was flying high and Mackay prices were going up significantly that many buyers were saying “I wish we had bought a while ago when the market wasn’t so hot”. I’m not armed with a crystal ball so I’m not here to tell you what is going to happen but I suspect there is a very good buying window right now for those looking for an opportunity.
Read the full story
A local Mackay and Sarina based model has created a dress out of newspapers, including Mackay Life, for her upcoming pageant, representing her region and hometown on the runway as she vies for Miss Diamond International in Brisbane. Zoe Place will be competing this weekend in the three-day event, beginning this Friday 2nd October and ending on Sunday 4th October. The young model spent around a month creating her eco-fashion outfit, using old newspapers as the main material and transforming them into a bodice, skirt and flowers. Red elements were also incorporated into the design to give the dress a bold and glamorous pageant feel. Zoe said, “The entire concept was really about taking something that would normally be thrown away and turning it into something beautiful and meaningful.” Her eco-fashion creation will form part of a busy weekend in Brisbane, with the Miss Diamond International event including photo shoots, interviews, an eco-fashion show and the final pageant. Zoe has been preparing for the event by practising her strut and walking, preparing for interviews and getting comfortable in the different outfits she will wear throughout the weekend. Alongside her love of modelling, pageantry has also provided Zoe with a platform to raise awareness about causes close to her heart, including mental health, while fundraising for Beyond Blue. “Pageantry has given me more of a platform to combine my love for modelling with something that is really important to me.” “When I first started, I was more nervous about putting myself out there and worried about what others would think about me – but I’ve changed a lot through my journey in pageantry.” “Pageantry has also taught me that it’s not about how you look on stage. It’s about the person you are when you step off it.” “Every woman has their own unique journey and that journey is something we should all be really proud of.” “To me, it represents confidence, empowerment, kindness, and using your voice to make a difference.” Zoe said she was looking forward to meeting the other contestants, making new connections and creating memories. “I’m definitely looking forward to meeting all the new contestants and making new connections and creating memories that I will carry with me for a lifetime.” While Zoe hopes to eventually move to the city, her sights are set even further afield, with a dream of one day walking in New York Fashion Week. Mackay and Sarina local Zoe Place has created an eco-fashion dress from recycled newspapers, including Mackay Life, ahead of her Miss Diamond International pageant in Brisbane. Photos supplied
Read the full story
Trends, reels and the endless cycle of always wanting more has quietly bombarded the minds of countless social media users of all ages, but one former Mackay local has made it her mission to help others understand the effects of social media and find practical ways to break free from online addiction. Alexis Zahner is in Mackay over the next week to teach upcoming generations about social media and the effects it can have on the mind, particularly on identity, self-discovery, as well as the marketing strategies that get viewers hooked and influence their decisions. It is something Alexis knows first-hand can be a useful tool, but also a great disruption to authenticity and the world as we see and experience it. Alexis will hold a free meet and greet and book launch today, Friday 2nd October, at 5.30pm at the Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club, where she will give a talk and answer questions relating to her debut book, Real: Reconnecting to Yourself in a World of Likes and Lies. A former Mackay girl, Alexis spent the past 15 years working across business psychology, marketing and media, with her interest in social media influence beginning during her university studies at James Cook University in Townsville. Her own experience as a social media user, travel blogger and influencer eventually led her to question how much of her identity, decisions and values were being shaped by what she saw online. “The tipping point came for me about 3 years ago when I had this feeling that I couldn't separate influence from my own personal decision making,” she said. “I couldn't separate my own likes, dislikes, values, relationships from what I was being exposed to and being influenced by online.” “I found that I needed to take some time away from social media to recalibrate what was important to me and sort of reconnect and come back to myself.” Alexis said she understood the feeling of questioning who you are outside of social media. “I know what it feels like to live a life under the influence of social media and have that existential crisis of thinking to yourself, who am I? What do I like? What's the kind of life I want to live? and struggling to separate myself from influence.” Alexis is particularly passionate about reaching teenagers, who she says are in an important stage of identity development, and will share this message with Mackay high school students during her upcoming school talks. “Teenagers are really easily influenced by social media. So it's a really important age where we start educating them – not just on the mental health repercussions of things like social media and how it shortens their attention span, but how it actually influences who they become.” “If you're asking yourself these questions, it's not your fault. Social media is actually geared to create this impact on you.” Alexis encourages people of all ages to “start expanding beyond what you see on the platform.” “Dare to indulge in the things that you've always been curious about or things you used to love,” she said. “Don't be afraid to put the phone down to let yourself be curious and have fun.” What: Alexis Zahner's 'Real' Book launch When: 5.30pm Friday 2nd October 2026 Where: Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club Former Mackay local and author Alexis Zahner is returning home to share her experiences with social media and her debut book, Real. Photo supplied
Read the full story
Nigel visiting The Mackay City Rollers who received $10’000 from The Gambling Community Benefit Fund
As July wraps up and we head into August, I can’t quite believe we’re already in the last month of winter.
The past month has been a busy one, from Parliament sittings and community events to school visits and my latest mobile office at Caneland. Every conversation helps keep me connected with what matters most to our community.
July also saw Mackay welcome two Ministers and both the Premier and Deputy Premier, with a strong focus on delivering local projects and backing our region's future.
One announcement that generated plenty of discussion is the planned upgrade to the Golf Links Road and Bucasia Road intersection. After extensive community consultation, the upgrade will include intelligent traffic signals with AI technology, additionalturning lanes and an additional left-turn lane on Golf Links Road, designed to reduce congestion and improve traffic flow through one of Mackay's busiest intersections.
Alongside Glen Kelly MP, I was also pleased to help bring the Parliamentary Primary Industries Committee to Mackay. It was an important opportunity for local producers and industry representatives to have their voices heard without travelling to Brisbane, ensuring the committee could hear directly about the opportunities and challenges facing our region.
Public submissions on the proposed Circuit Breaker program have now closed. The feedback received will help inform the next stage of the proposal, which aims to introduce a court-ordered youth rehabilitation program in a rural setting, helping turn young lives around while improving community safety. Alongside this, we’ve strengthened youth justice laws, including the new "Breach Bail, Go to Jail" legislation.
One of my election commitments is also nearing completion, with the new shed for the Mackay Comedy Players now receiving its finishing touches. I'm looking forward to seeing the group make full use of the new facility.
It has also been great to get out and visit some of the latest recipients of the Gambling Community Benefit Fund. Every organisation has a different story, and it's always rewarding to see how these grants are being put to good use—whether it's new equipment, upgraded facilities or helping local volunteers continue the fantastic work they do in our community.
Social media has been keeping me on my toes lately too. I threw the decision over to Facebook on whether I should wear a kilt to the Scottish Bluewater Fling... and the people spoke! Before I knew it, I was kilted up and joining in the fun. Safe to say it was one of the highlights of the month.
Looking ahead, National Pyjama Day is on Friday 1 August and I'll be hosting a Pyjama Day fundraiser at the Memorial Swimming Centre. Pull on your favourite PJs, enjoy a pie and a bowl of soup, and help raise funds for The Pyjama Foundation, supporting children in foster care through learning and mentoring.
Schools across Mackay will also be taking part in National Schools Tree Day, and I'll be joining local students to plant a tree and help leave a positive mark on our environment.
Another milestone on the calendar is Victoria Park State School's Centenary Celebration. Reaching 100 years is an incredible achievement, and I look forward to celebrating the school's rich history alongside students, staff, families and the wider community.
As always, thank you to everyone who has stopped for a chat over the past month. Whether it's at a community event, school visit or mobile office, I appreciate hearing your ideas and concerns and look forward to catching up with many more of you over the coming weeks.
Left to Right – Operations Manager, CASA Mackay Kim Bishop; Board Chair, CASA Mackay Robert Ryan; Deputy Mayor, Mackay Regional Council Karen May; and General Manager, CASA Mackay Will Stafford. Photo Credit: Hannah McNamara.
A growing demand for housing and homelessness support has prompted CASA Mackay to take a significant step forward, moving into new premises designed to strengthen its ability to support the community.
Deputy Mayor Karen May was among many supporters and community representatives in attendance as CASA Mackay celebrated the milestone, which follows significant growth for the organisation, including an expanded service offering, increased staffing, a move to larger premises and the launch of a refreshed brand.
Founded in 1983, CASA Mackay has grown into a Tier 3 Community Housing Provider, delivering a broad range of housing and support services.
General Manager William Stafford said the new premises marked an important step forward following significant work behind the scenes.
"Expanding our services and growing our team has better equipped us to provide the right assistance, at the right time, for the people who rely on us.
“We’ve done a lot of work in the last 2.5 years behind the scenes, strengthening service delivery, expanding staff numbers, and investing in our services,” he said.
“We came to the point where there was a real disparity between the professionalism and the number of our staff, the seriousness of our mission, and the space that we were working out of. So, it was time for a move.”
The new premises is said to be double the size of CASA Mackay’s previous location, including dedicated reception and intake areas, a conference room and centralised storage for furniture and goods distributed to people in need.
“We wanted a space where services could come together. We want to be a hub for planning and building, and collaborating in the Mackay community around housing,” Mr Stafford said.
The location is expected to improve the organisation’s efficiency when distributing support and goods to people establishing a tenancy or experiencing cost-of-living pressures.
“Having a centralised storage area really helps with asset management and improving efficiency for our clients,” he said.
The larger premises also provides room for CASA Mackay to grow, with the organisation open to co-locating with smaller services that may not have their own space.
“We take very seriously the mission of growing to meet the growing challenge of homelessness.”
Mr Stafford said CASA Mackay continued to see the effects of low vacancy rates, cost-of-living pressures and issues including health, mental health, substance abuse, family breakdown and domestic violence.
Board Chair Robert Ryan said the organisation’s focus remained on building a strong and sustainable future.
“As a Board, our responsibility is to ensure CASA remains strong and sustainable so we can continue supporting our community as its needs evolve,” Mr Ryan said.
“We're proud of what our team has achieved, and we'll continue making decisions that ensure CASA can support the community for many years to come.”
Anyone seeking support, or wanting to learn more about CASA Mackay's services, can visit the team at their new office at 1/38 Wellington Street or contact the team on 4951 4299.
Amanda with local changemakers Antoinette and Rebecca
Contributed by the office of Amanda Camm MP, Member for Whitsunday
The strength of the Northern Beaches community comes from the people who quietly give their time to help others.
Across the community, volunteers are creating opportunities for people to connect, stay active and feel part of their community.
They are the people setting up marquees before an event, cooking at the community barbecue, coaching junior sport, checking on neighbours, organising playgroups and creating activities for residents of all ages.
Local organisations including the Mackay Northern Beaches Lions Club, Rotary, Neighbourhood Watch and the Northern Beaches Community Network all play an important part in bringing people together.
The same community spirit can be seen through our sporting clubs, Seaview parkrun, local playgroups, seniors’ activities and groups such as the Bucasia Beach Quilters.
Much of this work happens quietly and without recognition, but its impact is felt throughout the community.
As the Northern Beaches continues to grow, these local connections become even more important. A strong community is not measured only by the infrastructure it has, but by the way its people look out for one another and work together.
I want to thank every volunteer who gives their time, shares their skills or simply puts up their hand when help is needed.
Whether you contribute every week or assist with one community event each year, your efforts make the Northern Beaches a more welcoming and connected place to live.
Our volunteers truly are the local legends of the Northern Beaches-and our community is stronger because of them.
Amanda Camm MP, Member for Whitsunday, is encouraging Northern Beaches residents to attend the next community meeting on Tuesday 28th July, from 5.30pm to 7pm at Club Northern Beaches. The meeting will provide an opportunity to connect with others, discuss local priorities and share ideas for the growing community.
Photo source: Broken Ballerina Inc
A generous community partnership has helped provide a fresh start for a Mackay woman rebuilding her life after escaping domestic and family violence.
Broken Ballerina Inc (BBI), a local not-for-profit organisation supporting victim survivors of domestic and family violence, recently celebrated a special milestone after handing over the keys to a fully refurbished vehicle to a courageous survivor.
The car was donated through the efforts of Car Resurrection Ministry, with volunteers dedicating their time to restoring the vehicle and preparing it for its new owner. The generous donation also included one month’s insurance and six months’ registration, helping remove another barrier for a woman beginning the next chapter of her life.
BBI thanked Hippie and Eric from Car Resurrection Ministry, along with the volunteers involved in the refurbishment, and acknowledged the support of Church of Christ, who chose BBI as the recipient of this meaningful initiative.
For BBI founder Jules Thompson and supporters, the moment carried a personal significance, recognising the impact practical support can have during difficult times.
“To be able to gift a car to a victim/survivor, was a very special moment indeed, as I was a single mum, without a car, once upon a time.”
The organisations hope the initiative will continue to grow, with more vehicles planned to support victim survivors and women in need.
Car Resurrection Ministry is currently seeking assistance to secure a car hoist to continue their valuable work.
Orange Sky Mackay has officially unveiled its upgraded service space, offering a safe place to access free laundry services and connection. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Orange Sky homelessness support has celebrated the completion of major upgrades to its Mackay service, supported by $40,000 in grants from Mackay Regional Council and the Mackay Community Fund, at an official grand opening held on Wednesday22nd July
Part of the funding was secured by Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP for the facility and its awning, providing a sheltered space where people can stay protected from the rain and sun.
The upgrades included a new patio, giving users a clean, safe and sheltered space to sit, connect and chat while accessing Orange Sky’s free laundry service.
Orange Sky has supported the Mackay community for nine years, with volunteers completing 13,561 washes and providing 24,632 hours of connection and non-judgemental conversation since the service launched.
“It just takes a lot of their anxiety away that they know that they can come and get their washing done in a friendly and safe environment,” Mr Willcox said.
“They leave here and feel really good about themselves, and that makes me feel good. This is why I support initiatives like this, and do what I do.”
Orange Sky Co-Founder Nicholas Marchesi said demand for the service had grown over the past year.
“To now have an amazing location alongside the Girl Guides, where people can sit down, put their washing on under shelter, is really a massive step forward in us delivering our service,” he said.
For service user Brendan, the service provides practical support during a difficult period.
“Washing your clothes at a laundromat is expensive, and the fact that this exists really eases that section of my life. The people here are great,” he said.
The Bowen Delta Rural Fire Brigade are banding together to repair vandalism to their station following an incident of theft that is thought to have occurred in the early hours of Friday 17th July. As well as damage to the property, a self-funded ATV was stolen destroyed, later discovered abandoned near Bowen River.
Nick Ianni. Photo sourced: Taylor’s Property Specialists.
Growing up on a cattle station in country New South Wales taught Nick Ianni the value of hard work. Now based in the Whitsundays, he is applying that same mindset to his role with Taylors Property Specialists.
Working as both a sales agent and personal assistant to principal Rob Taylor, Nick divides his time between helping clients navigate the buying and selling process, managing contracts and paperwork, and continuing to build his own client base.
“We genuinely take the time to help our clients as much as possible, supporting them from their first enquiry right through to settlement,” Nick said.
“We also try to go beyond that by maintaining the relationship well after the sale has been completed.”
Nick’s interest in real estate began soon after leaving school. He completed his New South Wales real estate qualifications in 2020 before spending time working on his family’s cattle station in regional New South Wales.
He relocated to the Whitsundays in 2025 to join the Taylors team, bringing with him a strong country work ethic and quickly embracing the local property market.
While every home is different, Nick believes it is the lifestyle that truly sets Whitsunday properties apart.
“Every property here has its own unique characteristics and features, but they all offer some part of the Whitsunday lifestyle,” he said.
“Whether you have sweeping sea views or you’re only a few minutes from town but surrounded by nature and privacy, that variety is what makes property in the Whitsundays so special.”
Rob Harris Principal, Aunty Jo Nicol, Mary-Ellen Kusu, Dastan Kusu, Jack Tanna, Kala Auda and Abbie Paul. Photo supplied
Bowen State High School wrapped up its NAIDOC Week celebrations with a day of culture, community and connection, bringing students and their families together to mark the 50 years of deadly.
The day began with an official ceremony featuring a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony led by Uncle Jimmy Gaston, followed by a contemporary cultural dance performed by students.
A flag-raising ceremony and speeches from Havana Power and Kala Auda were followed by Principal Robert Harris' address, where he reflected on this year's theme, 50 years of deadly.
The school then recognised students whose achievements embodied the spirit of this year's NAIDOC Week celebrations. Principal Robert Harris presented the Aunty Cecelia Upkett Academic Achievement Awards to Dastan Kusu and Mary-Ellen Kusu.
Then newly appointed Police Liaison Officer Abbie Paul delivered a heartfelt speech about her father, Darryl Paul, before presenting the citizenship awards named in his honour to Jack Tanna and Kala Auda.
The school carried the celebration into the rest of the day, with students taking part in a range of cultural activities.
They tried coconut palm weaving and scratch art, learnt about influential Indigenous Australians, played traditional Indigenous games and joined dance workshops. Students and staff also shared Torres Strait Islander food and NAIDOC cake to round out the day's festivities.
By Glenda Brown, President Creative Connections Whitsunday
When you buy a piece of local art, you're taking home much more than something beautiful. You're supporting a local artist, celebrating creativity, and helping build a vibrant arts community that benefits everyone.
Across the Whitsundays, artists capture the landscapes, wildlife, people and stories that make our region unique. Through painting, ceramics, sculpture, photography, textiles, glass and other mediums, they create works that reflect a genuine sense of place -- something no mass-produced souvenir can replicate.
At any one time, around 30 artists exhibit their work at the Creative Connections Whitsundays Community Gallery (Proserpine) and Creative Space at the Bendigo Community Bank (Cannonvale).
Each artwork represents countless hours of creativity, skill and dedication. For artists, every sale is not only financial support but also recognition that their work has connected with someone and found a new home.
Supporting local artists also has a wider impact on our community. Since the Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibitions in 2024 and 2025, and the opening of the Community Gallery, more than $20,000 has been paid directly to local artists. That'smoney flowing back into our community, helping artists keep creating.
With more than one million visitors travelling to the Whitsundays each year, original local artwork provides an authentic connection to the region. Whether it's a painting inspired by the reef, a handcrafted ceramic piece, or a striking photograph, each work carries a story and a lasting memory of this special place.
Community galleries, exhibitions, markets, and retailers make these connections possible. They provide opportunities for artists to share their work, for visitors and locals to discover new talent, and for creativity to become part of everyday community life.
Whether you're purchasing your first artwork, adding to a collection, or simply visiting an exhibition, supporting local artists is an investment in the creative future of our region—one that enriches our community for years to come.
Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibition
When:
Where: Whitsunday Sailing Club, Airlie Beach
Discover 85 outstanding artworks by 66 artists, each exploring the theme, Beyond Beauty. Now in its third year, the exhibition has become one of the cultural highlights of the Festival. Creative Connections Whitsundays gratefully acknowledges the Whitsunday Sailing Club for hosting the exhibition and thanks our generous sponsors for helping make this annual celebration of regional arts possible.
Community Gallery
Where: 192 Main Street, Proserpine
When: Monday to Friday: 9.00am – 4.00pm and Saturday: 9.00am – 1.00pm
The gallery is not a permanent collection. Each month, exhibiting artists refresh their displays and new artists join the gallery. Every visit offers something different to discover. Thanks to the Whitsunday Regional Council for helping facilitate the Community Art Gallery.
Community Creative Space
Where: Bendigo Community Bank branch, Whitsunday Plaza, Cannonvale
When: Monday to Friday, 9:30am–4:00pm (closed 1pm–2pm for lunch)
Some artworks tell a story through paint. Others tell a story through the people who create them.
One of the finalists in this year's Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibition is TARTS Tree, a remarkable collaborative textile artwork created by the Textile Arts (TARTS) group from Hideaway Bay.
More than 20 artists contributed to the piece, each bringing their own creativity, skills and personality to the finished work.
The TARTS have been meeting for more than 15 years, bringing together Whitsunday locals and seasonal residents who share a passion for textile art. Their tree is a celebration of both nature and community.
The artwork began as a simple sketch of a stylised tree before being transferred onto stabilised wool. From there, every member played a part. Leaves, birds and insects were individually wet felted, embroidered, and stitched by hand. The sky and bushland were dry felted into the background, while the tree trunk and branches were carefully constructed using donated wool from Proserpine Chat and Patch. Even the hanging system became a community effort, with a local hairdresser creating the macramé hanger and a local woodworker crafting the timber end caps.
The Brush Turkeys, lovingly shaped by hand, add another distinctly Australian touch.
TARTS Tree is a reminder that creativity has the power to connect people. It represents countless hours of shared conversation, laughter, learning and craftsmanship, resulting in an artwork that is far greater than the sum of its parts.
See TARTS Tree and more than 80 finalist artworks at the Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibition.
Celebrating local creativity, connection, and community
Whitsundays Writers Festival
Richard Evans
Festival Director and President
hello@whitsundayswriters.com
Tickets are selling fast for the 2026 Whitsundays Writers Festival, 13 September! Secure your spot now at whitsundayswriters.com/2026-programme-speakers
Creative Connections Whitsunday
Glenda Brown
President
info@creativeconnectionwhitsunday.com
Creative Connections Whitsundays supports and celebrates the region's arts community by creating opportunities for artists to connect, exhibit, learn, and thrive through partnerships, cultural events, and creative programs.
Get in touch!
If you would like to submit a poem, creative writing piece, profile suggestion, event information, or share your creative story, please contact hello@whitsundayswriters.com
Young Arab cross Gibbs is ready to find the loving forever home he deserves. Photo sourced: Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue.
For a young dog like Gibbs, the future is full of possibilities. All this 12-month-old Arab cross needs is someone willing to give him a chance at a happy home.
Friendly by nature and eager to make you like him, Gibbs is still discovering the world. Like many young dogs, he's finding his way, figuring it out as he goes. The most valuable thing for him is a loving home with patience, guidance and a consistent routine will help him grow into a confident and loyal companion.
Quiet and humble at first, Gibbs doesn't take long to come out of his shell. Once playtime begins, his fun-loving personality shines through, and his photogenic face is sure to win over anyone lucky enough to meet him.
Desexed, vaccinated and up to date with his veterinary care, Gibbs is ready to start the next chapter of his life.
If you think Gibbs could be the perfect addition to your family, contact Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue by direct messaging your name, phone number and "Gibbs" to begin the adoption process.
Project Leaders Dr Lindsay Simpson and Dr Rachael Smith. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville.
The Whitsunday Conservation Council recently gave the community its first look at an ambitious new digital trail designed to help visitors discover the hidden stories of the Whitsundays, at a Green Drinks evening event.
The evening brought community members together for a presentation on the Heart of the Reef Discovery Trail, with project leaders Dr Lindsay Simpson and Dr Rachael Smith outlining how the interactive experience will connect people with the region's natural and cultural landscapes.
“It was so good to get it out there and we know we've been working on it behind the scenes for so long,” Dr Simpson said.
“To get all the feedback that we did tonight was excellent.”
Designed as a self-guided digital experience, the Heart of the Reef Discovery Trail will give tourists and locals alike the chance to look deeper into the scenery, revealing the stories that make the area so special.
Through QR codes placed at locations across the region, users will be able to access interactive content exploring local ecosystems, wildlife, history and conservation efforts before continuing their journey.
Organisers hope the trail will give visitors another reason to explore the region.
"It will encourage longer stays, helping people discover more things we've got to do in town," Dr Simpson said.
Dr Smith said the trail was also about helping people better understand the environment around them and why it matters.
"I think education is such an important part of conserving anything," she said.
"By connecting those environments with people, particularly the things they value, we can help them realise those things are actually connected to these ecosystems."
Dale Last at last year’s Don River Dash. Photo supplied: Mikayla Colquhoun.
Bowen’s Don River Dash has received a $20,000 boost through the Government’s Homegrown Destination Event Fund, helping strengthen the off-road motorsport event’s reputation as a major tourism drawcard.
Member for Burdekin Dale Last has welcomed the funding for the event which had cemented itself on the national motorsport calendar.
“There is no other event in Queensland like the Don River Dash, bringing together more than 5000 visitors to the Bowen region for an exhilarating off-road endurance race along the riverbed of the Don River,” Mr Last said.
“The Don River Dash is more than a race - it’s a celebration of community, adrenaline, and
Queensland’s rugged beauty. And it’s an event that the Crisafulli Government is proud to support and one that I am proud to support as the local member.”
“It’s events like this that drive our regional tourism and bring real, tangible results for Bowen including a $3.8 million injection into the local economy.”
Mr Last said supporting homegrown events like the Don River Dash was part of the Government's 2045 plan towards making Bowen a long-term tourism destination.
“Queensland is fast becoming the events capital of Australia, and we’re investing in more
homegrown events to keep that momentum going,” Mr Last said.
“With something for everyone, events like the Don River Dash will once again be a standout
experience for locals and visitors alike.
“We said we would deliver through Destination 2045 — and that’s exactly what we’re doing.”
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.
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2026 Mackay and Whitsunday Life Pty Ltd.
