Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Like most young people, I lived in a rental property for some years before buying my first home. I had left home in Canberra and was living in Melbourne, initially in shared rental properties. It was a bit weird but there would be ads in the paper saying a room was available for a “guy/girl” and applications were invited. If you had a pulse and some form of income you got a room pretty quickly. Initially I was in various flats … we didn’t call them “apartments” or “units” in those days and the flats I lived in were cheap, unadorned, small and cold. At one stage I was one of three young blokes in a two-bedroom flat in Clifton Hill. It was a ridiculous set-up made worse by the fact that one of them was an angry lunatic who wanted to fight people. I got out of there as quickly as possible. Soon after I vacated the flat and left the lunatic to his own devices, Clifton Hill was the scene of the tragic Hoddle St Massacre in which a gunman killed seven people. I assumed it was my former flat mate but it turned out there were two lunatics in Clifton Hill. There were other flats … Brunswick and St Kilda and a terrace house in Coburg. If you enjoy a cold climate you should try living in an old two-storey terrace house in Coburg with a malfunctioning fire place on a winter’s night. Later in my 20s I bought my own unit and my property journey became far more civilized and warmer. But the point is that I needed those rental properties. They were part of the journey when I needed cheap accommodation while at uni and starting off in a career at the lower end of the pay scale. The current Federal Government needs to remember that for there to be rental properties there needs to be investors who bought them and who make them available for tenants. There is no doubt that the increasing housing prices had become ridiculous in cities like Sydney and prices have been increasing in recent years in regional Queensland as well. It’s a demand and supply thing … lots of people and not enough houses. Extremely high levels of immigration will do that. But the government, rather than looking at immigration numbers, has decided to bash the life out of investment opportunities for “mum and dad investors”. Negative gearing is gone, capital gains tax is up and, the latest one, people are now banned from borrowing money to buy an investment property through their self-managed superannuation. People who had a little bit of money tucked away used to be able to take out a loan and buy an investment property to help set them up in their retirement years. My wife and I bought a few several years ago and I thought at the time that it was a great opportunity for the average Joe, rather than the high end of town, which doesn’t need to buy through their super. Anyway, that’s gone and the government, in lock-step with the Greens, has pretty much stomped on any aspirational ideas ordinary people might have because there is now no incentive to try and create financial opportunities for mum and dad and the family unit. That’s great for the Greens and the socialist left who find beauty in the bland but not so good for people willing to work hard, make investments and try to get ahead while at the same time ensuring they are not a burden on the taxpayer in their later years. It’s also not so good for young people like me all those years ago needing a rental property. I don’t know who is going to buy an investment property so I don’t know how young students and people starting out are going to find a rental. And the lack of rentals will push rent prices up. Job done!
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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. 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. 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. Makayla Groves can be contacted on 07 4963 2522, while Bianca O’Brien can be contacted on 07 4963 2525. CAPTION: Bianca O'Brien works with Blacks Real Estate as a Commercial Property Manager. Photo supplied Makayla Groves works as a Commercial Property Manager with Blacks Real Estate. Photo supplied
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Nestled in the heart of Andergrove, MacKillop Catholic Primary School may be small in size, but it continues to make a big impact on the lives of its students and families. Catering for approximately 160 students from Prep to Year 6, MacKillop offers a close-knit, welcoming environment where every child is known, valued and supported. Guided by its mission to “work together, participate and have a go,” the school community fosters a strong culture of collaboration, inclusion and enthusiasm for learning. At the core of the school’s identity is its Catholic faith, reflected in the values of Faith and Service inspired by St Mary of the Cross MacKillop. Notably, the school shares a special connection to its patron saint, having been established in 1995, the same year she was beatified. This legacy continues to shape the school’s commitment to compassion, resilience and community spirit. MacKillop provides a well-rounded education through a comprehensive curriculum that includes weekly specialist lessons in Physical Education, The Arts and STEM. Students are also encouraged to extend their talents beyond the classroom, with opportunities to participate in a wide range of extra-curricular activities such as Eisteddfod, sporting events, Opti-Minds, Readers Cup and the Mackay Primary School Mathematics Challenge. Supporting every child’s learning journey is a key priority. The school offers both learning support and extension programs, ensuring that students of all abilities are challenged and nurtured. Wellbeing is equally important, with a dedicated counsellor available two days a week to support student mental health and emotional development. A strong sense of community is evident in the school’s daily life. Parental involvement is highly valued, creating a genuine partnership between home and school that enhances student outcomes. Initiatives such as buddy classes, where older students mentor younger peers, help foster friendships, leadership skills and a sense of belonging across year levels. Faith is lived and celebrated at MacKillop through regular worship, including fortnightly Class Masses and Liturgies. Meanwhile, whole-school initiatives like the “Manner of the Week” encourage positive behaviour, respect and shared values, recognised during weekly assemblies. Innovation also plays an important role in modern learning at MacKillop. Classrooms are equipped with technology including Chromebooks, iPads, interactive projectors and robotics tools like Bee-Bots, ensuring students are prepared for the digital world. Staff at MacKillop are committed to nurturing the whole child. Many are trained in Berry Street’s trauma-informed practices, implementing strategies such as Welcome and Closing Circles, brain breaks, and personalised learning plans to help students feel safe, regulated and ready to learn each day. Beyond school hours, MacKillop continues to support families through its Outside School Hours Care program, offering engaging before and after school care, as well as vacation care tailored to children’s interests. From classroom showcases to parish connections, MacKillop Catholic Primary School continues to demonstrate that a strong community, grounded in faith and care, can create a truly enriching educational experience. In Andergrove, MacKillop isn’t just a school, it’s a community where every child is encouraged to grow, belong and thrive.
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In an era where parents are increasingly seeking more than academic outcomes alone, St Francis Xavier Catholic Primary School in West Mackay stands out as a place where education is both deeply personal and community focused. For families weighing their options, the school offers a compelling blend of strong values, supportive relationships, and well-rounded learning opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom. At its heart, St Francis Xavier is grounded in Catholic identity. This is not simply about religious instruction, but about fostering a culture of respect, compassion, and shared responsibility. Students are encouraged to develop a sense of purpose and moral awareness, learning to care for others and contribute positively to their community. For many families, this values-based approach provides reassurance that their children are being shaped not only academically but also ethically. Equally important is the school’s emphasis on belonging. Parents often describe primary school settings like St Francis Xavier as having a “family feel,” and this is where the school excels. Students are known by name, their strengths recognised, and their needs understood. Teachers and staff work closely with families, fostering open communication and genuine partnership. In a regional city like Mackay, this sense of connection is particularly valued; it reflects the broader community spirit while giving children confidence and security in their daily learning environment. Academically, the school offers a structured, yet engaging curriculum designed to meet the needs of diverse learners. While maintaining high expectations, St Francis Xavier recognises that children learn in different ways and at different paces. Programs are tailored to support both extension and intervention, ensuring that each student can grow. Literacy and numeracy remain foundational priorities, but the focus extends to critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills that are increasingly essential in a changing world. Beyond academics, the school offers a wide range of co-curricular activities that enrich student life. Opportunities in sport, arts, music, and cultural activities allow children to discover their interests and build confidence. Participation in these pursuits helps develop teamwork, resilience, and leadership; qualities that are difficult to measure in tests but invaluable in life. Another notable strength is the integration of wellbeing into everyday school life. Recognising that learning cannot thrive without emotional support, St Francis Xavier places emphasis on student wellbeing programs. This includes fostering positive relationships, teaching social skills, and providing guidance support when needed. For families, knowing that their child’s mental and emotional health is prioritised is as important as academic success. Technology and contemporary learning practices also form part of the offering. Like many modern schools, St Francis Xavier incorporates digital tools to enhance learning while maintaining a balanced approach. The aim is not simply to use technology, but to teach students how to use it responsibly and effectively; a critical skill in today’s digital landscape. Accessibility and community engagement further strengthen the school’s appeal. As part of Catholic education in Queensland, it remains committed to welcoming families from a range of backgrounds. School events, liturgies, and community activities provide regular opportunities for parents to be involved, reinforcing the partnership between home and school. Ultimately, what St Francis Xavier Catholic Primary School offers families is more than a place of education it offers a community. It is a place where children are supported academically, nurtured spiritually, and encouraged socially. For parents in West Mackay seeking a balanced, values-driven education with a strong sense of belonging, St Francis Xavier presents itself as a thoughtful and dependable choice. In a competitive educational landscape, that combination of care, consistency, and community may well be its greatest strength.
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Often when we have been in a career or organisation for some time, or even as we reach a time of year, maintaining motivation can be a challenge.
The follow on from a loss of motivation may see us nudging more of a negative mindset than a positive one, which can result in a negative spiral, which pervades all aspects of our lives.
It takes a purposeful shift in mindset and here are some practical actions to assist with putting the WOW back into our WHY.
1. Reflect on what was your original motivation for career, job or journey
Take time to reflect on what were the drivers for your original decision. Are these still relevant? What’s changed? A personal career audit can assist to reconnect with your purpose – are small tweaks required or a major shift?
2. Give yourself permission to rest and refresh
Does your schedule allow some regular downtime to rest and refresh? Do you plan a longer break at least once a year to disconnect and reset and recharge? Regardless of how much we love what we do, we all need a recharge. A change of scenery or routine can spark new energy.
3. Are you doing too much and feeling overwhelmed?
Review your commitments – personal and work. Are you draining your energy with an ‘overfull’ schedule? Be ruthless – what can you choose not to do at all or not as often, or is there another way to achieve the same result.
4. Take care of your health and well-being
You know the drill - regular exercise, proper nutrition and sleep are significant to how we feel and improve focus and motivation.
5. Practice gratitude
When thing are not going to plan, it’s easy to fall into a negative mindset spiral. Reflect on the things you’re grateful for. Shifting your mindset to focus on positive aspects of life can help reignite your appreciation for your work, relationships, and goals. Seek professional assistance if you need.
6. Tap into your Cheer Squad
Surround yourself with positivity. Be selective about who you engage with and limit your exposure to negativity. Being around motivated individuals can reignite your own motivation and reinspire to achieve your goals.
7. Visualise success
Spend time visualising ‘your best you’ and the success of your why to inject that motivation to persist. To complement, a vision board with images and/or words that represent your goals helps stay focussed.
Working with someone else can assist with putting the WOW back into your WHY - this is where we can help. Contact me at powerup@careerforceaustralia.com.au or 0409 894 131 to learn more.
Australian Church Women will celebrate World Community Day at 10 am on Friday 25th October, at Northside Uniting Church, Bedford Road Andergrove. We will also collect the ‘least coin donations’ that members have collected each time they pray for peace, justice and hope during the previous year.
The Fellowship of the Least Coin is a global prayer movement that supports and advocates for peace, and justice and hopes to promote the physical, mental and spiritual health and well-being of women and girls throughout the world. The money is used to support various programs and projects that raise awareness of women’s issues and to empower and encourage girls and women to succeed. It enables them to learn more about their human rights and the importance of human dignity, enabling them to become financially independent and enhance their ability to achieve their dreams and aspirations in a difficult and often violent environment.
The theme of the Service on 25th October is “Young Women and Older Women Working Together”, and centred on the message in Acts 2:17;
“…I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh, and your sons and daughters shall prophesy, and your young people shall see visions, and your old people shall dream dreams.”
I hope you will be able to join us as we get together to pray for a better world.
Anne Jennings
Secretary/Treasurer
Mackay Unit Australian Church Women
Historically high work participation, lots of job vacancies, seriously strong population growth, rental and sales prices up by 10 per cent in the past financial year putting median house prices in Mackay up above the $500,000 mark.
That was the message from Knight Frank Managing Director Craig Stack at a recent Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA) function in Mackay.
The facts and figures were a confirmation of the “feeling” that we have all had about how this city and region are on the move.
We all know that demand and supply are the key drivers of economic activities and the combination of population growth, strong business activity and increasing rents have all had a role in housing activity in Mackay.
Mr Stack’s figures showed that 112,400 people are currently employed in the Mackay region, significantly up from 65,900 in June 2001. Our unemployment rate is 2.8 per cent, virtually non-existent.
The figures showed that the median house price moved to $500,000 in the 2023-2024 financial year. However, Mr Stack said that figure had already climbed to $530,000 from June to August this year.
So, while there was a 10 per cent increase in the median price in the 2023-2024 financial year, there was a further 6 per cent increase from June to August.
And, while the population has increased dramatically over the past 20 years, the number of weekly sales has dropped. While it was 63 properties a week in 2003, it was 46 in 2012, 56 in 2022 and 50 in the financial year 2023-2024.
As for average days on market, Mr Stack’s figures showed Mackay’s sat at 11 days in the last financial year, compared to 22 days in Brisbane and 32 in the Gold Coast.
The average rent on a two-bedroom unit was about $260 a week in June 2019 but that has increased to $450 a week this year. A four-bedroom house rented out on average for $400 a week in June 2019 and in June this year that figure had increased to $650 a week.
As for rental vacancies, they were at 3.6 per cent in June 2019. It is now at 0.6 per cent.
And Mr Stack indicated that the research shows continuing growth in rents of 5 per cent and 7 per cent until early next year at the earliest.
He is also predicting a median sales price growth of 5 per cent to 8 per cent to June next year, so whether it is rents or sales, prices look like they are still going up.
Mr Stack said Mackay has the capacity to provide 2000-3000 detached houses at the moment, which he points out is simply not enough to meet the market demand.
Mr Stack, like the rest of us, cannot predict the future and there are certainly issues such as an economic slow-down in China, a drop in the price of iron ore and coking coal and other geo-political issues on the horizon that means nothing is certain.
But I do know that investors from southern markets are injecting themselves in a big way in the Mackay market and they are having a significant role in pushing the prices up.
Those investors see strong rental returns on what they feel are affordably priced properties and they want a piece of the action.
I am not here to tell people what to do or to predict what is going to happen from here but it would be a shame to see local people miss out on the current buying opportunities only to see prices go even higher in the years ahead.
You can still buy a two-bedroom unit for under $300,000. Maybe it will stay like that for a long time … maybe not.
Glitz, glamour and goodwill came together for a heart-warming cause last Saturday, as Broken Ballerina Inc. hosted its annual 2024 Be Bold, Be Brave, Be Beautiful Charity Ball at the Mackay Turf Club.
Guests arrived in the early evening, gathering in the picturesque garden area before being welcomed into the grand ballroom at 6pm. Attendees were greeted with complimentary drinks and the sight of a glamorous pink carpet leading them into a beautifully decorated space.
The ballroom itself was a vibrant display of bright pink, black and white to represent the colours of the organisation, creating an atmosphere both elegant and full of life.
A delicious alternate drop of entrees and mains were served, and later guests indulged in Jules’ famous homemade cupcakes for dessert.
The event was graced by several notable figures from the region, including Cr Alison Jones, Labor candidate for Mackay Belinda Hassan, Member for Mackay Julianne Gilbert MP, LNP candidate for Mackay Nigel Dalton and former Whitsunday Mayor Julie Hall.
As the night unfolded, excitement filled the air, particularly during a live performance by Raise Your Glass: Australian P!nk vs Gaga Tribute. The energetic performance had everyone on their feet, dancing and singing along to iconic hits like P!nk’s U + Ur Hand and Lady Gaga’s Telephone. The vibrant energy in the room was contagious, with the dance floor full of smiles all around.
From gardening packages to luxury salon and beauty treatments, The 2024 Broken Ballerina Charity Ball had incredible raffle prizes, worth a total value of over $7,000.
The best was saved until last, with a lively auction that had guests diving deep into their pockets and purses in support of domestic violence victims in the region.
Among the most sought-after auction items were a bright pink acoustic guitar signed by local musician Bella Mackenzie, framed posters of P!nk and Lady Gaga with a microphone and signed letters of authenticity…and the most admired of all… a pair of signed boxing gloves from former Australian professional boxer Jeff Fenech. The highest bidder also secured a once-in-a-lifetime experience - a personal dinner with Fenech at his home, complete with a tour of his legendary man cave.
Throughout the night, there was no shortage of fun, laughter and heartfelt moments, but beyond the glamour and entertainment, the true purpose of the evening was to raise funds for Broken Ballerina Inc. and the vital work that Founders Jules and Pete Thompson do for domestic violence survivors in the region.
Broken Ballerina Inc. is a non-for-profit charitable organisation that relies on community donations and business sponsors to continue their mission of helping victims flee domestic violence. Despite receiving no government funding, its approach is like no other in the region, delivering a heart-to-heart service where they are able to offer not just support on a personal level, but also provide essential items such as self-care necessities, food, car repair services and even accommodation, depending on the client’s needs.
Local QPS domestic and family violence representative, Tamara Cook said, “Broken Ballerina provides invaluable services and resources to those escaping domestic violence.
“Their ability to continue this support relies on contributions from business and donations from their community.
“Thank you to those who have already provided donations and continue to do so.”
Kim Tower, Marketing Manager of Broken Ballerina Inc. and the event's MC on the night, praised the team's dedication, calling their passion and hard work truly commendable.
“What Jules and Pete do is amazing…but no one sees what goes on behind the scenes… whether it be food, fuel, groceries, getting their car serviced, even flights to get these people in need out of town, that’s what Broken Ballerina does, and they do it instantly.
“The passion that these guys have and the work and effort that these guys put into everything they do is truly commendable.”
Should you wish to donate, sponsor through your business, or are in need of services, please visit www.brokenballerina-inc.com.au
Glamour meets goodwill at the 2024 Be Bold, Be Brave, Be Beautiful Charity Ball hosted by Broken Ballerina Inc. at the Mackay Turf Club. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Mackay Airport acknowledges the planned industrial action by Trident security screening officers and the United Workers Union on Friday 27 September.
Richard Barker, CEO of Mackay Airport, stated, “We are aware of ongoing negotiations between the security screening provider and union representatives, however, have not been party to these discussions.
“Trident Services Security are responsible for reaching agreement with the union on the outstanding matters and we are hopeful the parties will reach an outcome without disrupting the travelling public.
“Mackay Airport remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of the travelling public and acknowledge the important role security screening personnel play in keeping our airport safe.
“We encourage travellers to stay informed through our official social media channels and website for any updates related to this action.
“We anticipate there may be delays passing through airport screening between 6am-10am on Friday 27 September and ask passengers to allow additional time for processing during this time.”
Photo source: Mackay Airport
Ever started making an Asian dish and thought... how do I get that authentic flavour? Asian Products on the Go has you covered, stocking everything you could need to make your dish taste like it has come straight from Asia.
Having been in their current store at the Whitsunday Shopping Centre for 10 years, owners Ken and Myrna, started out selling in markets and are proud of their shop, which they opened back in 2014. They love their location as people often stop by to check out their unique selection of items before heading to Coles.
Asian Products on the Go sells food, beauty, cooking utensils, woks and chopsticks. However, one product that stands out from the rest is their fermented bean paste called NATTO which gets snapped-up quickly… it’s very good for digestive health.
In addition to offering a fantastic selection of Asian products, the store also provides money transfer services for those looking to send funds abroad, distinguishing them from other stores in the area.
According to Myrna, when people head into the store, they normally pick up the delicious “noodles and rice”, thanks to the store's wide selection of brands that aren’t typically found in larger supermarkets. Another store favourite is the renowned MSG, which delivers irresistible flavour to any dish, reminiscent of takeaways or restaurant dishes.
Being one of the only Asian supermarkets in the Whitsundays, you can be sure to find anything you need to create an Asian based meal, with chefs in the area often popping in to stock up their kitchens.
Asian Products on the Go, always have customers at the forefront and owner Myrna adds that:
“If you are looking for a specific product and it's not in the store, we will try our best to get it for you.”
Whether you are wanting to make Adobo, Chow Mein, or Pad Thai, Asian Products on the Go have you covered, with their wide variety of spices, sauces, meats and more you have everything you need to make any Asian dish!
Top pick:
Grab their Adobo sauce it’s delicious!
Providing Whitsunday residents with the popular Hawaiian/Japanese dish Poke, the owner Erina Miyake loves bringing this healthy, delicious and super quick lunch and dinner option to our region.
Erina opened Lokahi Poke Bar two years ago and loves seeing her regular customers who cannot get enough of the tasty bowls which are packed with fresh local produce and flavour.
Poke Bowl is a dish that originated from Hawaii, and it was inspired by the large population of Japanese residents on the island. Erina makes her Poke Bowls with fresh ingredients, making it healthier and more delicious.
While Lokahi Poke Bar creates Poke Bowls, Erina ensures all customers will enjoy the fresh, healthy feed. With customisation options you can create your own poke masterpiece. You can choose from delicious protein options such as sashimi tuna, salmon, teriyaki chicken and more. Erina noted that teriyaki salmon and karaage chicken are becoming immensely popular. There is also a tofu option for vegetarians looking to get that protein hit.
Lokahi Poke Bar has recently launched a new menu which includes the amazingly well-priced Cup-Bap (Rice-Cup). At just $9.90 customers that want a smaller bowl, or want less vegetables can get the same tasty meat but for a lesser price. The Cup-Bap has seven options including a vegetarian option made with japchae, an addictive chewy potato noodle that has customers always wanting more. Erina describes the Cup-Bap as an easy grab and go cup that is cooked fresh, fast and affordable.
Both Cup-Bap and Poke Bowls are cooked fresh in store and are aimed to reach your tastebuds within 5-10 minutes, making it an ideal lunch break spot. Erina loves the shop’s location at the Whitsunday Shopping Centre, she loves the community feel between all the shop-owners and also that the Whitsunday Shopping Centre is more accessible to the locals.
Lokahi Poke Bar is open Monday – Friday 10am – 3pm and 5pm – 8pm. Saturdays 10am – 2.30pm and 5pm – 8pm.
Must Try!
Grab a Cup-Bap on the go – new to the menu, this item is fresh, delicious and affordable!
Uniting their passion for property and gardening, Whitsundays Property Services has expanded, opening a new store at the Whitsunday Shopping Centre that caters to the region’s plant lovers.
The idea began when owners of Whitsunday Property Services, Rhys and Karly realised they had too many plants at home and wanted to share them with fellow enthusiasts. This planted the seed of an idea to launch a side-business and Fay’s Garden grew into the flourishing wonderland of greenery customers enjoy today.
Fay’s Garden is an indoor plant store, named after Rhys’s grandmother, Fay, who inspired Rhys and created the love he has for plants today.
Fay’s Garden differs from other plant shops as they offer a unique level of service to all their customers.
“I think what makes us different is that everything is already done for you,” said Karly.
“We mix the soil to suit the plant, we offer repotting after 12 months, and have 1 on 1 contact with customers after they leave.”
Karly and Rhys maintain contact with you once you have left the shop, they email a plant specific care sheet to customers which includes all types of information, such as fertiliser information, ideal temperature information, pet safety, light and positioning information and watering needs.
Expanding on the store’s distinctive charm, each plant has been given a name. The couple say this has been proven to make people more likely to look after them properly. Karly and Rhys say the named plants have a calling to some people, with some customers letting the name choose their next plant.
Indoor plants don’t just look cute and provide a home with bright colours, they are also effective at clearing the air. They draw in carbon dioxide and other pollutants and break them down. Having them in an indoor space can also reduce stress, increase productivity and boost moods.
Top Tip!
What’s the name of your new plant? Head into Fay’s Garden to find out!
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Recently opened Reef Beats is set to make its musical mark in Airlie Beach. Bringing a unique vibe to the Whitsunday Shopping Centre, owner Steve Payne says he is excited to be back.
After leaving Perth in 2001, Steve moved to Airlie Beach and set up a record shop, after stumbling across the place on a tour up the east coast of Australia back when he was a youngster. Steve retold his time in Airlie Beach over 16 years and emphasised how the town was “Rockin’ 24/7.” Due to Cyclone Debbie, however, Steve was devastatingly forced to shut his beloved record store and decided to head to South Australia.
Steve returned to Airlie Beach in July this year and with him came the idea for Reef Beats, a record store with a huge range of over 5000 vinyl records, CDs, DVDs, T-shirts, guitars, drums accessories, strings and collectables. At his opening, Steve emphasised that it was great to see all his old friends, and the word had got around that he was back in town.
Reef Beats has a deep catalogue of mainly retro items, although he added that he does not neglect the newer music like Taylor Swift when stocking his store. His best sellers are old-school vinyl’s which make around 40% of the turnover. You can also get your hands on some custom orders at Reef Beats, and Steve is always open to hear any requests you may have.
Steve mentioned that his time at Whitsunday Plaza has been fantastic, especially in terms of relaxation. He values the area's great vibe and praised the excellent management. He also highlighted the beautiful location and appreciated the added benefit of easy parking.
Steve encourages all to come in and take a look at his diverse range of stock and enjoy the vibe of a retro music store whilst being greeted with a smile. He ensures that you will “walk out with a smile and feeling great.”
Back in the day, Steve would compete with bigger stores who were stocking vinyls, now he is a unique force in the Whitsundays, but has maintained the same charm.
Top Picks:
Looking for a rare vinyl? Steve’s speciality is custom orders for his clients.
Boomerang Bags and Craft Shop is a beloved community hub dedicated to uniting people through creativity. The shop offers a wide array of craft supplies and is adorned with charming homemade creations, from handcrafted seat covers to delightful crochet turtles. Each corner of the store reflects the spirit of local artisans, making it a vibrant space where creativity and community come together.
Founder Tina Everett, decided to start up the group after sadly losing her mum. The group started as an outlet for Tina to go out and meet new members of the community after feeling lonesome in the transient town of Airlie Beach. What started as a small group, soon transpired into a shop after the Whitsunday Shopping centre kindly offered one of their spaces to Tina for no rent.
Tina explained how the shop has been amazing for her:
“I've come out of my shell, and I've made a whole lot of great friends.”
According to Tina, people can often find coming to the shop intimidating to start with but end up loving the experience as “craft gives people their own little bubble.”
The shop is open Thursdays and Fridays for adult craft groups and Tina encourages anyone who loves craft to come along. Most of the craft supplies in the shop are community donations and anything that can't be used in the shop gets donated to schools, daycare centres and nursing homes.
“Bring your craft, if you haven't got craft supplies, we have many supplies here.”
“It's just gold coin donation which helps pay for tea, coffee and biscuits.”
Alongside her adult craft days, Tina also provides help to the boomerang bags initiative, which creates reusable fabric bags out of donated materials. The ladies at the Women’s prison in Townsville are provided with the fabric which they turn into bags for Tina to share around the community. This is a great program providing these ladies with so much more than just sewing skills.
If you are a keen crafter looking to make new friends, head into Boomerang Bags and Craft Shop Thursday or Friday at 9am-2pm.
Lumos Café is named upon the Harry Potter spell to summon light. And that is the purpose of Lumos Café - Owner Sarah Chen wants to bring a lightness to people who come in, and she wants them to leave with a big smile on their face.
To set this café apart from others, Lumos Café has a strong focus on customer service, and you’ll feel that from your first breath inside. “We care,” is how Sarah describes Lumos Café. With customers being 80-90% local, staff love remembering the order of returning customers, making them feel at home and often creating friendships.
Lumos Café has brought customer service to the next level by introducing table service. They also welcome take-away customers with the same love, and remember their orders, likes and dislikes, creating a cherished family-feel in the Cannonvale café.
“We create a vibe for people, when you come in you are not a customer to us. You are a family. So, if you come in today and you disappear for a week. When you come in the next time we will ask, how are you? Are you okay?” expressed Sarah.
It’s not just customers that feel like a family at Lumos Café.
By seeing herself as a worker first and boss second, Sarah has managed to create a family feel between her co-workers too. Staff talk to Sarah more openly which in turn develops that relationship to the next level.
Lumos Café is Sarah’s first business but having worked in the industry for more than a decade, she understands how to inspire staff and she believes that by being themselves, they can do their best work.
At the Whitsunday Shopping Centre Sarah feels a warm support from each loyal customer and from the surrounding businesses. She shared that when they can, they buy each other’s goods, support each other, and share information.
Top Tip!
What’s your favourite order? Become a regular at Lumos and the friendly team will often remember it for you!
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Meet Waylon
Co-Manager And Butcher At MBW On The Barbie
After eight years at Master Butchers Whitsunday and MBW On The Barbie, Waylon has certainly found his groove, carving out not just meat but also a satisfying career and lifestyle.
When he made the switch from a large supermarket's meat department, he was ready for a real challenge, and Master Butchers Whitsunday delivered—helping him improve his skills as a third-year apprentice and eventually complete his trade in 2017.
“They taught me how to properly bone beef, pigs, lambs, and process bacon, hams—all that stuff. There's a big difference in what you learn here,” said Waylon.
His passion for the craft goes beyond the basics. For Waylon, there’s something rewarding about preparing a whole animal into chops, roasts, or steaks.
“It’s really satisfying when someone wants a specific size roast or steak, and I cut it bang on.”
While the satisfaction of mastering his trade is a big part of the job, Waylon finds just as much joy in the interactions he has with his customers.
“I love this small community, it's nice and quiet, which makes it a great place to raise a family,” Waylon said.
“Plus, it's the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Where else would you want to live?”
But Waylon’s talents don’t stop at butchering. Since picking up the alto saxophone in grade five, music has been a major part of his life. Today, he plays in two local bands—the Whitsunday Big Band and Proserpine Citizens Band—where he gets to experiment with different genres and just enjoy making music.
When he’s not behind the butcher's block or playing his sax, you’ll likely find Waylon camping with his wife and two-year-old daughter, soaking up the serenity of the Whitsundays.
Describe your personality in three words
Reliable, funny, kind
Meet Tracie
Sales Assistant With On The Barbie
Tracie’s career switch came in the most unexpected way— quite literally with opportunity knocking.
After leaving her role at a discount retailer, it didn’t take long for her to find herself back in the workforce, thanks to a serendipitous visit from Karen, one of the owners of all four MBW businesses.
On her first day of unemployment, Karen appeared on Tracie’s doorstep, offering her a job on the spot. It was an opportunity that took Tracie by surprise but it felt like a perfect fit.
Her love for creating relationships with people in the community kept her passionate about customer service, so the transition to MBW On The Barbie allowed her to continue doing what she loves while picking up a few new skills.
“I’m learning how to make different delicacies,” Tracie shared.
“I’d never made a chicken Kiev before working here.”
The hands-on training has been a highlight for her, especially with Nicky by her side.
“Nicky shows me how to improve. She's an awesome trainer,” said Tracie.
Beyond the skills, it’s the camaraderie that Tracie enjoys most.
“They laugh at all my dad jokes,” she said with a grin.
One of her go-to jokes is, “What do pirates say on their 80th birthday? AYE Mmm-atey!”
Originally from Bondi, Tracie came to the Whitsundays nearly 30 years ago after falling in love with the area while on holiday.
“It reminded me of Bondi when they looked after their locals,” Tracie said with a laugh.
“They don't look after locals anymore in Bondi, it’s all yuppie now.”
But in the Whitsundays, Tracie found a place that still holds onto that tight-knit community feel.
“The community here is awesome; everyone steps up to help each other. It’s brilliant,” she said.
Describe your personality in three words:
Upbeat, reliable and hardworking
Meet Nicky
Co-Manager At MBW On The Barbie
MBW On The Barbie has been serving up top-quality cuts and mouth-watering meals for a decade now, and at the heart of it all is Nicky, who has been with the business since day one.
Originally working in supermarkets and a bakery, Nicky felt the need for a change. Knowing the owners before joining, she saw an opportunity to carve out a new path in the butchery business. That decision led her to become an essential part of the MBW team.
Nicky spends most of her time behind the front counter, but her role stretches beyond customer service.
“I do pretty much everything except cut meat,” Nicky shared.
“I make all the products, I serve on the counter, and I also slice ham and bacon.”
Having been with MBW On The Barbie from the beginning, Nicky has had a front-row seat to the company’s growth. She’s seen it expand from one bustling store to four, saying it’s great to see the business thriving across the region.
When she’s not busy at MBW On The Barbie, Nicky is hard at work on another passion—renovating her home.
“They call me Bobette the Builder,” Nicky laughed.
“I renovate my home and build stuff at home. I’m a bit of an arty-farty type person.
“I have plants and enjoy making the house look nice.”
Her home, complete with a pool and a cozy spot for beers, is her haven. It’s where she spends time with her “crazy black Great Dane” named Jonesy, whom she affectionately refers to as her child now that her four children are grown and spreading their wings on their own adventures.
Describe your personality in three words
Hardworking, reliable, kind
Meet Lockie
Apprentice Butcher With MBW On The Barbie
From a young age, Lockie knew his calling.
Following in the footsteps of his uncle, he set his sights on becoming a butcher. Now, at just two-and-a-half years into his apprenticeship with MBW On The Barbie, Lockie is proving that his passion runs as deep as his skillset.
Lockie’s natural talent and keen interest in the craft have allowed him to thrive in his apprenticeship. He’s particularly proud of the progress he’s made, saying that his training at MBW On The Barbie pushed him ahead of schedule, picking up second-year skills during his first year on the job.
For Lockie, there’s nothing quite as satisfying as breaking down an animal and preparing it into different cuts that leave customers excited to take home a perfectly prepped steak or roast.
“The best part is seeing their faces when they get a good steak,” he shared.
His favourite task? Making sausages. While it might seem simple to the untrained eye, the art of crafting the perfect snag requires precision, speed, and a lot of practice.
“I’m getting pretty quick with them now,” Lockie said with a smile.
“I like making the thick ones, those take a bit more focus. They’re easy to overfill, and if you add just a bit too much pressure, they can burst, and they are a pain to clean when they explode all over the wall.”
Whether it’s mastering the art of sausage-making or breaking down a cut to perfection, he’s a butcher who takes pride in every step of the process.
Outside the shop, Lockie unwinds with his mates, spending his weekends fishing, pigging, or simply chilling out.
Describe your personality in three words
Easy-going, quick-learner, honest
What began as a service to the community and a desire to ensure a local shopping centre still had a butcher shop, has become a labour of love for a humble team of passionate staff members who have transformed a closing Butchery into a thriving business over the past 10 years.
One of the longest running businesses at Whitsunday Shopping Centre, MBW On The Barbie, is the brainchild of entrepreneurial meat-specialists, Karen Rix and Don Cameron. Ten years ago, when the couple heard the lease was not to be renewed by the existing tenant butcher and decided to step-in to ensure the continuation of this valuable service.
“We thought – every shopping centre deserves a local butcher!” expressed Karen.
“And the community welcomed us with open arms, everyone was excited to see that we’d continue at the convenient location, and we have had fantastic support ever since.”
Led by the demand for growth, Karen and Don were humbled by the support which encouraged them to expand from the Master Butchers Whitsundays store, which had been operating on Stewart Drive in Cannonvale for five years at the time, to the new premise at Whitsunday Shopping Centre. Determined to differentiate the new store from its big brother, the pair decided to specialise in quality barbeque products while also offering the same meat staples available at the other location.
Inspired by the outdoors lifestyle of the Whitsundays, the ‘On The Barbie’ branding was an instant success, with customers loving the delicious range of barbeque meats and helpful advice from the knowledgeable staff.
“We trained all the staff on adapting oven cooking times to suit hooded barbeques and found that people loved being able to cook their favourite meals outside, they simply needed to know how to do it!”
With a pre-existing reputation for quality meat products from the Stewart Drive Store, replicated seamlessly at On The Barbie, the new store quickly gained popularity and its convenient location made it popular, especially with locals living within walking distance.
Graduating from little sister to team-mate and business equal, MBW On The Barbie has risen in the ranks, rising to become a significant game-player in the local retail sector. This status was reinforced when MBW On The Barbie entered into the Australian Meat Industry Council Awards and came home with a gold award for the Best Sausage in QLD for their classic beef sausage.
Proud to be supplying delicious, high-quality meat for the Whitsunday community, MBW On The Barbie constantly innovates to ensure customers have the best flavours whether they are cooking up a storm in the kitchen or sizzling steaks outdoors on the barbie.
One of the ways they keep ahead of the pack is by offering a range of complementary products such as their marinades and rubs. These tasty additions ensure that nobody gets tired of the same old tastes, in fact they can keep trying different combinations.
In addition, Master Butchers has taken this one step further by opening a ‘Chef’s Kitchen’ at their Stewart Drive location. This new innovation supplies MBW On The Barbie with delicious accompaniments to complete the barbeque experience. Crunchy salads made with the freshest local products are put together by a talented chef who loves pairing the best recipes with the most succulent meats.
For those looking for a breakfast barbeque, MBW On The Barbie also supply their own bacon and local eggs.
Standing strong through the tests of times, MBW On The Barbie has weathered several storms including the shopping centre fire of 2016 and Cyclone Debbie in 2017. On both occasions, their priority was serving the local community and helping those that needed it most. It is this community spirit that has seen them become the highly-embraced, much-loved local business it is today.
As MBW On The Barbie celebrates its 10 year milestone, Karen hopes other local businesses will feel inspired by their resilience and witness first-hand how a small business can succeed in supplying quality produce to the local community.
Must Try Item
The Bonnie & Clyde – moisture infused pork rack which is stuffed with caramelised onion and Gouda cheese with a pistachio crust. Close the hood on the barbeque on a medium heat and it will be ready in about 35 minutes.
The 2024 state elections are heating up with the formal announcement of all candidates who are in for the running. After four years of a Labour-run state led by Premier Steven Miles, the political landscape is wide open as the election approaches on October 26, 2024.
All eight regional candidates are preparing their election campaigns in the lead up to the big day. Each candidate is working hard to connect with North Queenslanders, hoping to secure their votes and represent the region’s interests.
This election cycle features a mix of old and new faces, adding a dynamic element to the 2024 race.
Missing: Peter Atchison from the Family First Party candidate for Whitsunday and Amanda Nickson from the Family First Party candidate for Burdekin. No images could be found at this time.
With the looming state elections, it's important to identify your voting district and familiarise yourself with the local candidates running for office.
In the Whitsundays region, voters can choose from four candidates: Amanda Camm MP (LNP), Bauke Hovinga (Labor), Julie Hall (One Nation), and Peter Atchison (FFP). If you reside in Airlie Beach, Cannonvale, or Proserpine, these are the individuals on your ballot.
For the Burdekin region, the candidates are Dale Last (LNP), Anne Baker (Labor), Andrew Elborne (One Nation), and Amanda Nickson (FFP). Residents of Bowen and Collinsville will have the opportunity to vote for these candidates.
Whitsunday Candidates
Amanda Camm (LNP)
Amanda Camm, current Member for Whitsundays, is well-known in the region. She has spent the last four years in opposition after claiming her first term in October 2020. Before entering Queensland Parliament, Amanda served as a Councillor and Deputy Mayor of Mackay.
A long-term Whitsundays resident, she is running for election with a clear focus on driving positive community change, improving the economy, and connecting community members.
During her term, Amanda claims she has contributed to the region’s growth and prosperity through her diverse experience in government, economic and social development, tourism, mining services, and primary production.
Bauke Hovinga (Labor)
Bauke Hovinga, a doctor in Mackay is up for election for the Labor party. Bauke understands first hand the importance of access to healthcare. Hearing of the Miles Labor Governments ambitious plan to deliver healthcare to the local community, made him hold his hand up high as a Labor candidate.
Bauke loves living in the Whitsunday region and believes maintaining community connections is vital to see the community thrive. He also advocates for upholding cost of living relief alongside encouraging social and affordable housing.
Julie Hall (One Nation)
Former Mayor of the Whitsunday Regional Council and a candidate against Amanda Camm in the last state election, Julie Hall is committed to ensuring that Whitsunday residents have a strong voice in the governmental decisions impacting their lives and community.
Julie is passionate about protecting the natural environment and Great Barrier Reef but advocates for a balanced and realistic approach. Julie also stresses the need to address local issues, including, roads, housing, youth crime, and state government cost shifting to local government, which pressures ratepayers.
Burdekin Candidates
Dale Last
Born and raised in regional Queensland and with a background in the sugar and cattle industries, Dale Last has a big love for regional areas.
After over 30 years as a Police Officer, Dale was elected to the Townsville City Council in 2008 where he also served as Deputy Mayor.
He is now the current Member for Burdekin.
Dale is focused on delivering for the Burdekin electorate and regional Queensland, he claims his first-hand experience in law enforcement and emergency management will help him tackle community issues.
Anne Baker
Having called Burdekin home for 38 years, Anne Baker is a dedicated community champion with a deep understanding of the area and its residents' needs.
With 17 years of passionate service in local government—12 of which she spent as Mayor for the Isaac region—Anne is eager to once again advocate for local working families, businesses, agriculture, mining, construction, and regional communities.
Anne is also family focused in her ideologies, having her own family and knowing the challenges and rewards of raising a family in regional Queensland.
Andrew Elborne
Andrew Elborne, was born in Brisbane and raised in a Catholic home and attended a Catholic school until grade 10 when he left to pursue a trade as an electrician.
Andrew has worked on various significant projects, including Parliament House in Canberra, Ergon and Energex supply authority work, and at the Tarong Power Station.
Andrew states that he is determined to bring real-world experience and simple, transparent solutions to the table, aiming to simplify legislation and make it more accessible. He is committed to improving infrastructure, supporting trades, and enhancing community services in Burdekin.
Hi Everyone,
Have you ever shared a moment with others and felt an almost palpable energy radiate?
I experienced this feeling twice this week, on two very different occasions.
The first was when I was at my Saturday morning Body Combat class; we were about two-thirds of the way through and I was doing my two-hundredth knee kick when the moment struck me.
The music was punchy, the stamina was waning and all of a sudden, I felt this almost euphoric energy wash over, one that I felt sure was shared with all the other panting people in the room.
An invigorated enlightenment.
The second time I experienced this was when I attended a Sunday morning service at the local Baptist Church with my mum who is visiting from the UK for three months.
Despite living what I consider ‘a life of Christian values’, I have to confess I only go to church when it is to accompany my lovely mum.
My favourite part is always at the beginning when the little church band belts out the hymns.
Listening to the angelic voice of the singer, watching the congregation begin to sway to the rhythmic sounds - in that moment I felt the whole room connect.
I watched as hands rose to ‘praise the Lord’ and the energy of the room lifted up in shared appreciation.
Both occasions, despite being very different, showed a similar experience, a collective energy that makes us all feel more alive.
I think this connection is the lifeblood of being human and it’s small communities like ours where we get to feel it most.
Where and when have you felt this in your own life?
Was it when you were playing a game of footy, dancing at a festival or perhaps watching a beautiful sunset with strangers on a beach?
Rach
Quote of the Week: “The older I get, the less I know” (Swami Chetanananda)
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