By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

It is certainly a very busy time of year, not only in the paddock, but also in the boardroom and governance of not only Mackay Canegrowers, but for numerous other clubs and organizations.  I am of course talking about Annual General Meeting season.

On the 20 November, Mackay Canegrowers held its AGM at the Mackay Turf Club.  We were fortunate enough to have a satisfying attendance of around 100 members and industry stakeholders.  This number of members attending compared to our full membership of just under 700 farming businesses was probably hamstrung somewhat by the fact that the harvest was still ongoing, and members were unable to attend due to being still in the paddock.

The members that were present had the opportunity to witness presentations from our two guest speakers, that being Joseph Marano, who is the Senior Vice Chair of the Queensland Canegrowers Organisation (QCGO) and the other being Mick Bartlett, Chief Executive Officer of Sugar Research Australia (SRA).

Joseph Marano is a multi-generational canegrower and harvesting contractor himself, hailing from Innisfail in north Queensland. He presented a detailed report on what QCGO is currently working on, as well as what it does and offers its members which include handling international trade for the sugar industry, water and electricity policy, environmental policy, industry and farm-based compliance and numerous other industry issues and concerns.  He very much focused on the value of Canegrowers as a grassroots collective, both at a local and state level.

Mick Bartlett has worked all over the world in numerous agricultural industries and for just over 12 months now, has been the CEO of Sugar Research Australia.  SRA is the major research organization of the Australian sugar industry and is co-funded by growers, millers and Government.  Mick gave a detailed overview of the current position of SRA and in numerous capacities, that being financial, research and logistical scenarios which are playing out.  I think it is fair to say that the buzzword on all the grower’s lips at the present time is cane variety development, and Mick gave a report on this very topic, including new approaches using genomic selection for sought-after traits.  He fielded numerous questions and comments on all facets of operations of the sugar industry’s premier research organisation. The frank “warts and all” approach Mick took was appreciated.

Parking the official part of the meeting to one side, the AGM gave members the opportunity to voice their views on numerous topics at the heart of their cane farming operations.  As well as this, the AGM is a valuable social and networking opportunity for growers to discuss new techniques and technology, as well as farming in general and of course…the weather!

It was great to see large numbers of members taking the opportunity to mix, well after the completion of the formal proceedings.  Members are the foundation of Mackay Canegrowers and when large numbers assembly together, it is a show of strength and unity for the organisation.  I would like to personally thank all those who attended and the input which was given in the meeting.  It was a positive afternoon.

End Of Crush: The harvest is now very much down to the pointy end and Wilmar Plane Creek Mill in Sarina crushed out for the 2025 harvest last week.  Mackay Sugar’s three factories - Farleigh, Marian and Racecourse - will have another week or so before they complete the 2025 season in mid-December.

All the best!

‍

Joseph Borg, Chairman of CANEGROWERS Mackay addresses attendees during the MCL AGM. Photo credit: Kirili Lamb.

‍

Greater Whitsunday To Transform Post-Mining Land Use

The Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3), in partnership with the Resources Centre of Excellence (RCOE) and Isaac Regional Council, has today launched the Reimagine Rehab prospectus — a bold blueprint unlocking the Bowen Basin’s potential to drive the next multi-billion-dollar economic opportunity.

The prospectus reframes mine rehabilitation not as an end-of-life obligation, but as a springboard for new industries, long-term jobs, and regional transformation.

Reimagine Rehab outlines the significant investment potential emerging from post-mining land use (PMLU), forecasting an $8 billion industry by 2030. The Bowen Basin with its world-class mining expertise, existing infrastructure, and innovation ecosystem, is uniquely positioned to lead this new chapter.

The Prospectus identifies where commercial value can be generated now; how industry and government can collaborate; and which pathways offer the greatest economic, environmental, and social return.

The Prospectus builds on the Greater Whitsunday METS Sector Revenue Diversification Strategy, which identified PMLU as one of seven high-value emerging sectors aligned to the region’s capability.

Three opportunity streams were identified within the prospectus:
• Minerals reprocessing – unlocking untapped value within tailings, mine waste, and legacy assets.
• Agriculture and aquaculture – transforming post-mining land and water into new food, fibre and protein industries.
• Mine water reuse – converting mine-affected water from a liability into a resource for community, industry and emerging sectors.

Together, these opportunities represent a once-in-a-generation chance to create new industry precincts, regenerate landscapes, and support long-term prosperity across the region.

Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) Chief Executive Officer Ms Kylie Porter said the prospectus highlights the scale of the opportunity now on the table.

“Reimagine Rehab is about more than restoring land, it’s about unlocking the Bowen Basin’s next high-value industries. With the right collaboration, investment and policy settings, this region can lead Australia in transforming mining landscapes into engines of economic growth and community prosperity.

Ms Porter said the Bowen Basin has powered Queensland and global markets for decades.

“As the region faces its largest ever wave of mining industry transformation, proactive planning is now essential.

“This transformation presents a narrow window to build new industries, attract private investment and secure long-term regional resilience,” she said.

Resources Centre of Excellence (RCOE) Chief Executive Officer Mr Steven Boxall said the prospectus demonstrates how the region’s existing capability can be channelled into new commercial ventures.

“Our region already has the skills, the experience and the infrastructure. This prospectus shows the clear, investable projects that can turn post-mining land into new jobs and new industries.

It’s a call to action for industry and government to work together and seize this opportunity while it’s right in front of us.”

Transforming post-mining landscapes at scale will require deep collaboration between Traditional Owners, community, industry, research institutions and government. The Isaac Resources Excellence Precinct is highlighted as a catalyst site for innovation and pilot projects that can drive commercial uptake across the Basin. Isaac Regional Council (IRC) Mayor Kelly Vea Vea said the opportunity goes beyond industry diversification.

“The skills, innovation and know-how across Isaac have shaped Queensland’s economy for generations and will continue to guide what comes next.

“The Isaac Resources Excellence Precinct will take that strength and turn it into practical outcomes. It will give industry, researchers and community a place to test ideas, show what works and create opportunities that keep jobs in our region and keep Queensland growing,” Mayor Vea Vea said.

The Greater Whitsunday region has been actively shaping the national conversation on PMLU through involvement in the CRC TiME Bowen Basin Hub, EnviroMETS Lighthouse Projects, and the Mackay Isaac Whitsunday Regional Water Strategy. Reimagine Rehab brings these efforts together into a cohesive, region-wide strategy for unlocking commercial impact.

This coordinated roadmap clarifies where the greatest opportunities lie, how industry and government can collaborate effectively, and what investments will unlock the most sustainable, job-creating outcomes.

‍

It’s that time of year again – the calendar’s already jammed + yet everyone’s trying to squeeze six weeks of work into three. Gotta love the silly season!!

But before we all start easing into the break, it’s worth giving your marketing an EOY joosh up. A few updates now can help you finish strong + set yourself up for a smoother start in January.

1. Make your closure dates crystal clear
   If you’re taking time off, let people know – everywhere. Update your website banner, Google profile, your social media bios + even your email sig. Nothing kills post-holiday vibes faster than coming back to a pile of peeps cranky they couldn’t get you.
2. Add a festive touch
   A subtle Christmas design on your socials, an updated cover photo or even a “Merry Christmas from our crew” email signature helps your brand feel current + connected. Keep it brand aligned – can be simple, or you can do something a little more punchy/comical, if that’s your style.
3. Share your celebrations
   If you’re hosting an EOY party or doing team or client gifts, snap a few candid photos for socials. People love seeing the faces behind the brand. It’s an easy way to show personality + remind followers that your business is made up of real humans who work hard all year too.
4. Review the year that was
   Post a wrap-up or highlight reel – milestones, favourite projects, client wins, community contributions – it’s time to repurpose the best of your feel-food stuff from the year. It’s a great way to thank clients + reflect on how far you’ve come.
5. Set yourself up for 2026
   Take some time this month to jot down what worked, what didn’t + what you want to focus on next year. Your January self will thank you! If you’ve got a marketing strategy, update it. If you don’t, start small – a few clear goals, target audiences + key activities is enough to get you going in the New Year.

Because the best time to plan for next year’s success? It’s right before you switch off for this one. Yes, that comes from a planning addict but trust me – you will thank yourself next year!

‍

Rebel Nation celebrating the year that was 2025!

‍

Thoughtful Gifting Made Easy

This Christmas, make corporate gifting simple, streamlined, and meaningful with Cherish Hampers & Gifts – Mackay’s dedicated hamper business trusted by local organisations for professional and stress-free gifting.

Whether you’re thanking clients, recognising staff, or organising a bulk order across multiple teams, we take the pressure off with a smooth Click. Quote. Pay. Deliver. process. With over three years of experience supporting Mackay businesses, we’re known for quality, attention to detail, and making deadlines easy.

Every hamper is thoughtfully created using products from Australian small businesses, supporting makers across Mackay and beyond. You can also include your own branded merchandise free of charge, creating gifts that feel personal, intentional, and aligned with your organisation.

From corporate Christmas hampers to settlement gifts, onboarding packs, event bundles, and tailored custom builds, we help you deliver something memorable and meaningful to every recipient.

And while corporate gifting is our specialty, we also offer a full range of all-occasion hampers for personal gifting – birthdays, new mums, thank-you gifts, or just because – making Cherish Hampers & Gifts your complete gifting solution.

Choose from pamper sets, gourmet selections, scented candles, gifts for the lads, or fully customised hampers designed to suit any budget or brief. With Mackay delivery, click-and-collect, and Australia-wide postage available, gifting has never been easier.

This year, give gifts that feel thoughtful, polished, and full of local goodness.

www.cherishhampersgifts.com.au

‍

At Blossoms Flower Boutique

Blossoms Flower Boutique shines brightly during the Christmas season, offering a warm and welcoming shopping experience shaped by the people who work there.

Owner and Manager Frances Deguara said it's all about, “The staff."

“We are a small team of very friendly people who have a passion for great customer service.”

Shoppers can relax into the festive spirit with a unique touch, because “You can ‘sip and shop.’

“Shopping is always made even better with a coffee or iced drink to sip while you shop.”

The boutique’s charm lies in its beautifully curated products.

“We not only specialise in bespoke floral arrangements, but also in a stunning and unique range of gifts and gourmet treats,” says Frances.

And this boutique, goes far beyond stocking beautiful items.

“We are passionate about finding and supporting other small businesses and locals. When you support us, you are supporting lots of other local small businesses too.”

Coming into Christmas, several items are standing out as favourites, such as Fresh Greenery Wreaths, Poppy’s Chocolate Christmas range, or Blossoms’ mini gift bags for end of year/secret santa gifts.

The boutique also has festive specials ready for easy gifting, including their popular Christmas ‘Grinch Arrangement’ as well as custom flowers and hampers.

Supporting local is a must for the Blossoms team.

“We are very passionate about supporting local businesses and have a number of local gift ranges, fresh plants and flowers all from locals in our district.”

Shoppers should also keep an eye out for staff favourites.

“The new Ecoya fragranced candle in the new ‘Fresh Pine’ scent. Smells like fresh Christmas trees, and the beautiful, cuddly locally made crocheted toys.”

For now, Blossoms can be found in their temporary location.

“We are currently in a temporary store while renovations are completed so we can be found opposite our regular shop, still in the Coles Complex at Northern Beaches Central.”

‍

Small Gifts, Big Heart, And A Little Hometown Magic

Looking for stocking fillers that feel thoughtful, fun, and a little more meaningful than the usual last-minute grab? Some of the best small surprises of the season are waiting just around the corner, crafted and curated by the local businesses who pour heart and soul into everything they do.

These petite presents don’t just brighten Christmas morning — they help support the makers, artisans, and small retailers who keep our community vibrant all year round.

For corporate colleagues, valued clients, or anyone who deserves a polished little treat, Cherish Hampers & Gifts offers festive bundles, luxe goodies, and beautifully presented items that tuck perfectly into any stocking.

For the kids (and nostalgic grown-ups), Let the Children Play Toyshop is a wonderland of imagination. Their shelves are lined with unique, one-of-a-kind toys, handcrafted puzzles, and creative treasures you simply won’t find anywhere else.

And if you’re after something sentimental or sweet for someone close to your heart, Blossoms Flower Boutique has charming floral accents, artisan fudge, curated gifts, and delicate keepsakes that make for the perfect heartfelt surprise.

This Christmas, let your stocking stuffers tell a richer story — one of local love, thoughtful giving, and supporting the small businesses that make our community feel like home.

‍

There’s a quiet kind of magic that comes alive when a community chooses to shop local. It’s not loud or flashy, but it’s powerful, felt in the hum of neighbourhood streets, the warmth of familiar shopfronts, and the genuine connections formed across counters and market stalls. Shopping local isn’t just a transaction; it’s an investment in the people who shape the heartbeat of a town.

Every small business tells a story. Behind each display shelf is a family, a dream, a late-night brainstorming session, or a passion that’s been years in the making. When you buy from a local store, you’re not supporting a distant corporation, you’re championing the creators, growers, and entrepreneurs who bring authenticity and personality to the community. Your purchase helps keep doors open, lights on, apprentices employed, and ideas thriving.

Local businesses also give back in ways that big retailers simply can’t. They sponsor sporting teams, donate to school raffles, contribute to charity drives, and build relationships with customers who become friends. When you shop local, your dollar does a full lap of the neighbourhood, strengthening the local economy, reducing environmental impact, and sustaining the unique character of the place you call home.

Beyond the economic benefits, shopping locally simply feels good. You’re met with personalised service, thoughtful recommendations, and products that have been crafted, curated, or sourced with care. It’s shopping with heart, and it turns even the simplest purchase into something meaningful.

So next time you’re ticking off your gift list, restocking the pantry, or treating yourself, consider exploring the stores just around the corner. Because when you support local, you’re not just buying, you’re uplifting the entire community, one meaningful choice at a time.

‍

Up until a couple of years ago real estate agents like me used to talk lovingly about the prices, activity and general positivity in our lives during “the peak” of the market back around 2008 through to 2012.

If a couple of real estate agents got talking it would be like an old married couple reflecting on the good old days. We didn’t hold hands but we used to nod knowingly as we reminisced about those days, when the market was strong, buyers were keen and prices were buoyant.

The change happened somewhere around late 2012 or early 2013, due to a few factors mostly relating to the coal sector. It’s ancient history now so there’s not  much point in going into it but the bad times and falling prices lasted until about 2018 when the market plateaued.

The market was pretty flat for the next few years but at least it wasn’t dropping.

The last four or five years have been strong, particularly the last few. In the 2024-2025 financial year, Mackay had the strongest growth of any market in the country with a property price increase of just under 20 per cent.

A lot of people lost their jobs and suffered financially during the down-turn and many were forced to sell when the market had fallen. It was sad and had a tragic impact on many people.

Those who were able to ride it out, and others who were in a position to buy at that time are in a good position now and you can only hope that those who suffered the brunt of the chaos have been able to rebuild and get going again.

That’s the thing about real estate; the vagaries of a market can have an enormous impact on what happens in people’s lives … whether it’s positive or negative.

Of course, we all know now that the market is strong and Mackay home owners have benefited enormously from the strong market.

But what about the people who are now frozen out, the people who are unable to break into the market? People on minimum wages, single parents, those who are just scraping by are  feeling frustrated and stressed. That’s not just in Mackay, it’s all over the country, but the change has been quick and dramatic in this town.

The combination of high immigration numbers and a lack of housing construction has created an under-supply of housing throughout the country and the result has been higher property prices and a lack of available rental properties.

There was a recent report in the Courier Mail newspaper showing that this state’s rental market is the most unaffordable in the country. It reported that the average regional household spends 32 per cent of their income on rent.

As a real estate agent, I don’t determine the strength of the market. My job is to get the best possible price for my client, the seller of the property, no matter whether the market is strong or weak.

I make no apologies for pushing to get the best price I can for my clients because that is what they are trusting and paying me to do.

But, as you move around Mackay and see the extent of the homelessness and see how difficult it is to pay exorbitant rents, you know there are two sides to a real estate boom.

We all want a strong real estate market so that those who work and save and are in a position to buy are able to benefit from their effort, particularly in retirement.

But we also want people to be able to afford rent, have a place to live and enjoy the benefits of a beautiful place like Mackay without excessive financial stress.

This is my final column for the year and, with these thoughts in mind, I wish readers a Merry Christmas and look forward to returning with my column if they let me get away with it again next year.

‍

By Cr Peter Sheedy

November has been a productive month for Councillors and our dedicated workforce as we continue delivering outcomes that matter for our community.

Supporting retirement village residents

Council recently addressed concerns around waste and recycling charges for retirement villages. Historically, cottages within villages were treated under the same category as residential ratepayers. However, advice on compliance with the Competitive Neutrality Principle – a key requirement in Local Government law since 2012 – recommended a shift to a commercial category.

While this change aimed to ensure legal compliance, we acknowledge the impact on residents and the complexity of legislation surrounding retirement villages. At our November meeting, council acted decisively:

Rebating $400 of the increased charge for 2025/26.

Committing to further work with retirement villages to ensure fair and equitable treatment for all residents.

We’ve also extended an apology for the way this issue unfolded and reaffirmed our commitment to collaborative solutions.

Planning for emerging technologies

Council considered a Development Application for a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in a rural zone. While we support renewable energy initiatives, we listened carefully to community concerns – particularly following the Bouldercombe fire incident in Rockhampton.

Rather than simply approving or rejecting the application, council adopted a balanced approach:

Requesting the Queensland Minister for Planning to call in the application for determination.

Committing to review our Planning Scheme in 2026 to ensure appropriate locations for new technologies.

This proactive stance reflects our focus on community safety, environmental responsibility and future-ready planning, and importantly takes into account the views of many residents who live near the proposed facility who are opposed to it.

New Airport Commercial Precinct – celebrating progress

A milestone was reached at the Mackay Airport with the unveiling of six new street names in the Commercial Precinct. The ceremony, led by Airport CEO Richard Barker, included a Welcome to Country and recognition of Traditional Owners, with two streets named in Yuwi language meaning “sky” and “wind.”

This development strengthens Mackay’s position as a regional hub and highlights our commitment to cultural respect and sustainable growth. It also reminds us of the importance of maintaining effective drainage systems to protect our community during the wet season.

Season’s greetings

As we approach the season of peace and goodwill, Councillors extend warm wishes for a time of reflection, renewal and reconnection with family and friends. Here’s to a prosperous and united 2026 for Mackay.

‍

At Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network’s Monthly What’s Up Mate Breakfast

A crowd of more than 70 people stood in solidarity for the “best free breakfast in the Whitsundays” last Friday, as the smell of sizzling bacon, eggs, tomatoes and mushrooms wafted enticingly into the early morning air.

They were, however, standing in solidarity for more than a delicious breaky, it was an opportunity to gather together, reconnect and ask a simple but powerful question – What’s Up Mate?

What’s Up Mate?

What started as a small and intimate monthly breakfast gathering has gained momentum and has now flourished in numbers growing from attendees of around 20 to a whopping 70 people consistently over the last few months.

Held in the open carpark area outside the two host businesses – Shirtfront Solutions and Enzed – the venue is both central and casual, making it easy for people to come along.

“We wanted to make it quick and easy so there is less excuse if you can’t come!” joked Matt Stokes President of Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN).

“We’ve seen steady growth over the last three or four months and we’ve become known for having the best free breakfast in town!”

Matt added that, in addition to being an event where people can connect, it has also become a place for people to seek help.

“For me, by having these meetings, I’ve had half a dozen people that have come to me because they needed a bit of help. I was able to point them in the right direction, and a lot of it is just talking.”

Each ‘What’s Up Mate Breakfast’ includes a five minute impactful speech by a local invited speaker. Previously they have had talks about self-discipline, alcohol and trauma, and finding purpose in retirement.

On Friday they welcomed Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins who spoke candidly about his own experience with stress and shared advice on how to combat mental health issues.

“For myself, it hasn't been a clean run to where I am today. I've had to battle things like a previous marriage breakdown and that was a really tough time for me getting through that, as well as the loss of my father a number of years ago," he said.

“I just implore you to at least take some time to consider how you're feeling, how your energy is, your state of mind, and try and factor in some time each week to actually make sure you're looking after yourself.”

With suicide rates peaking over the Christmas period WSPN say now is the time to stay connected more than ever.

“Make sure you are not alone for Christmas Day,” shared Matt.

“There is a whole lot of people in the same situation and the longer you leave it without reaching out the harder it gets.

“We also compare our lives to what we see on social media so make sure you stay connected to family and friends, especially at this time a year."

If you would like to talk to someone about your own mental wellbeing reach out to Matt and the team at WSPN, or call LifeLine on 13 11 14.

You can view the photo gallery from last Friday’s What’s Up Mate Breakfast on page 29.

‍

A vibrant handcrafted artwork created through a blend of creativity, therapy and community spirit has found a new home at Cannonvale State School, thanks to the Whitsunday Leisure Activity Centre’s Connecting Community Through Art program.

“The artwork was lovingly created by participants of the Whitsunday Leisure Activity Centre's art therapy program, supporting NDIS participants and seniors,” a spokesperson for the Centre said.

The Centre recently donated a hand-painted vase filled with vividly coloured felted flowers, crafted collaboratively during its regular art therapy sessions. The project brought NDIS participants and local seniors together, working side by side under the guidance of Art Therapy Facilitator Jeudi Croker.

Each flower was carefully hand-felted, shaped and arranged by participants, while the vase was painted in soft, calming tones to complement the piece. T

he final artwork reflects not only the individuality of each contributor, but also the unity that emerged throughout the creative process. The finished piece symbolises hope, healing and the strength of community connection through creativity.

Representatives from Cannonvale State School said the donation was intended to bring joy and a sense of reconnection to the school community. They hope the colourful artwork will serve as a meaningful and uplifting addition to the school environment.

‍

Hello everyone

I hope you're all doing well.

We've almost made it to the end of the year and I hope you've all had a blast!

Just last week, our sister publication Hinchinbrook celebrated its first birthday—a milestone that’s especially close to my heart because I was part of the team that launched the publication last November, living in the region as their on-the-ground journalist for four months.

It was an incredible honour to be trusted with the launch, and I’m ecstatic that it’s thriving after its first year. I want to say a big thanks to Sherie for being such a wonderful companion and Sales Manager during my time there, and to Victoria for carrying on the brilliant writing that makes the paper so special.

In other celebratory news, I’m flying down to Adelaide next Wednesday for my sister’s wedding. She and her fiancé actually got engaged during their trip to the Whitsundays last year, and I’m really looking forward to being there. Family from all over the world are coming for the wedding next Saturday, and it’s sure to be a fantastic celebration.

After the wedding, I’ll be working from Adelaide, writing this paper remotely, and I’ll return after the New Year. So, it’s goodbye for now but I’ll still be around for a few more days.

Daniel

‍

Bowen Fire Brigade Faces Fiery Summer Day

Summer in the Whitsundays always seems to bring its share of extreme weather. While the Bowen Delta Rural Fire Brigade hoped the recent rain might finally signal the end of fire season, in their words, "Mother Nature had other ideas."

The brigade taking to facebook detailed that the 2nd of December was "probably [the]  busiest day of the year so far," with their first call coming in at 1:20pm for a small grass fire burning close to a home and two beautiful horses, fortunately, the brigades Attack Unit was able to get the fire under control pretty quickly.

Just when they thought they were in the clear, their Water Tanker responded to another job at Whitsunday Paradise, where a fire had jumped the highway and was threatening structures. Bowen Delta Rural Fire Brigade's attack unit, ATV and Support Vehicle also responded to the incident working tirelessly throughout the night to keep it under control.

Then, whilst crews were still working at that incident, another fire ignited at Longford Creek. Crews claimed this was the largest of the day, with multiple resources responding from Cannonvale, Proserpine, and even Mackay. Several structures were under threat and they recieved vital support from above with a helicopter called in to water bomb.

Unfortunately, the Fire Brigade believe that these fires have been "deliberately lit," though no formal statement has been made.

If you ever see anything suspicious, call 000 immediately. Community vigilance plays a huge part in keeping everyone safe.

Bowen Delta Rural Fire Brigade, thanked Brent, Jaiden, Mitch, Mick, and Ashleigh for their "hard work, dedication, and commitment to protecting our community."

‍

On November 22, community members gathered in Bowen to honour two World War I veterans whose previously unmarked graves were formally recognised with new headstones during a short ceremony.

Secretary of Bowen RSL Sub-Branch Marty Tanzer led the ceremony and said he didn't know why the graves were unmarked but that was irrelevant, what was important was what the RSL would do about it.

"This issue was first brought to our attention by a guy in Brisbane who is conducting research on the WW1 AIF 26th Battalion," he said.

"We then sought and received support from Lyn Burke who has done a lot of work identifying veterans from the Whitsunday area who lie in unmarked graves."

He added that the two that have recently been given thier headstones are laid beside three others Archibald Cheffins, Thomas Garside Barker and Charles Rainbird Rodgers.

The Bowen RSL applied to the Office of Australian War Graves for official commemoration for all five veterans and was successful in obtaining official commemoration for Archibald Cheffins, Thomas Garside Barker and Charles Rainbird Rodgers. The other two were found to be ineligible.

However with grant funding from the Whitsunday Regional Council the plaques were underway.

Now with their plaques finally in place, the stories of Private Edward Edwards and Lance Corporal Edward Henry Hammond can be properly honoured.

Private Edward Edwards, born in 1883, was a miner before enlisting in 1915. Serving with the 42nd Battalion, he fought at Messines, Broodseinde, Passchendaele, the German Spring Offensive, Hamel, Amiens and the St Quentin Canal, surviving gas attacks twice. He returned to Australia in 1919 and died in Bowen in 1938. He was 55.

Lance Corporal Edward Henry Hammond enlisted at 18 with his father’s consent and served in major battles including Messines, Passchendaele and the Spring Offensive. He later served in northern Australia during WWII. Hammond died in Bowen in 1977 at age 79.

Finally now, Private Edward Edwards and Lance Corporal Edward Henry Hammond have a fitting memorial to these brave soldiers who served their country.

‍

Regional Historian Lyn Burke lays a wreath. Photo supplied

‍

The Whitsunday Regional Council has welcomed new national data confirming \ the Whitsunday Coast Airport (WCA) is the fastest-growing airport in Australia, recording an outstanding 15.1% year-on-year passenger increase for August 2025.

The official Bureau of Infrastructure and Transport Research Economics (BITRE) results place WCA at the top of the country for annualised growth, well ahead of major metropolitan and regional airports including Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney and the Sunshine Coast.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the national recognition reflects the strength of the Whitsunday brand and the dedication of the airport team.

“To be recognised as Australia’s number one airport for passenger growth shows that our region is in demand and it proves our airport is the gateway powering tourism and economic growth across the Whitsundays.

“Whitsunday Coast Airport is one of Council’s greatest success stories, and this result is a testament to the hardworking team who deliver an exceptional passenger experience every single day.

“Every new passenger through Whitsunday Coast Airport means more local jobs, stronger tourism, and greater opportunities for our businesses and communities.

“This momentum strengthens our case for more government investment, new airline partnerships, and the future expansion needed to keep pace with our region’s growth.”

Director of Commercial Businesses Craig Turner congratulated the WCA team and highlighted the combined effort behind the result.

“Achieving 15.1% growth and placing us number one in Australia is an incredible accomplishment and a direct reflection of the professionalism, dedication and pride our staff bring to the airport,” Mr Turner said.

Mr Turner said the airport’s performance is a significant win for the wider Whitsunday region.

“This momentum is the product of teamwork, targeted route growth, strong airline partnerships and a united effort with our tourism and business community. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved and excited for what’s ahead.”

Mr Turner also said that big things are coming in 2026 with new destinations to be announced in the new year.

Whitsunday Coast Airport continues to outperform national averages, outpacing growth figures from major centres including Perth (3.3%), Brisbane (5.3%), Adelaide (5.6%) and Sydney (4.0%).

The next closest regional performer was the Sunshine Coast at 13.5%.

‍

Director of Commercial Businesses Craig Turner. Photo credit: R Jean Photography

‍