By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

It is only a week until the Federal election, and there hasn’t been a great deal of discussion on agriculture this election.

Obviously the issues that challenge regional and rural communities are important, and shared by agriculture: the issues like access to childcare, quality national roads and digital connectivity that have been discussed are important.

Farmers are small businesspeople who happen to farm, and family farms are critical elements in regional economies. It is important that the Federal Government maintains support for small businesses.

It was disappointing to see the small business instant asset write-off drop back to $1000 from the $20K threshold at the last budget. The $20K threshold ends with EOFY in June. It is these schemes that enable small businesses like farms to increase their spending in other businesses across the region. If anything, it would be positive to see the threshold sitting much higher. Cotton Australia has pushed for $150,000, and that would certainly assist growers to upgrade machinery to develop not only productivity but also sustainability practices.

Similarly, we need iron-clad guarantees that the fuel tax credits scheme will be maintained, supporting growers to manage farm input costs in an increasingly volatile world economy.

Digital connectivity and particularly mobile coverage are very important to farming businesses, enabling the use of ag tech. A great deal of monitoring equipment relied on the old 3G network. That has moved on, farmers have had to invest in gear upgrades, but service has not moved with that reinvestment. Technology has come a long way in recent years, and will have an increasing role in farming to mitigate reduced labour supply and in precision agriculture.

Mobile coverage can be very patchy in rural areas, and that can be a safety issue, in case of injury when out in the paddocks. Doing business from the tractor is difficult to say the least.

Both digital networks and roads are supply chain infrastructure. It is critical that we have serviceable road and digital networks so that industry logistics can work efficiently.

We support the National Farmers Federation's call for the next Federal Government to commit to the recommendations from the 2024 Regional Telecommunications Independent Review Committee and provide $20 million annually for the highly successful On Farm Connectivity Program.

Regional communities have struggled with affordable housing, and Mackay’s sugar industry feels the pointy end of that every harvest. This region grapples with dramatically inflated housing costs, and there is a need for programs that will support farm worker accommodation projects and indeed, low-cost housing for the community which supports our industry, in general. Our capacity to capture a harvest labour force that moves around the country and with the different crops’ harvest season is limited by the extremely low rental availability and capacity to deliver accommodation.

There is a need for more funding for national biosecurity: pest and weed eradication programs for issues like feral pigs, and the threat of pests that could cross international borders from nearby northern neighbours. Sugar Research Australia is doing work in nearby countries to learn how we could manage an incursion by species that threaten sugarcane. So, above all, there is a strong need for increased federal funding into sugarcane research and development if we are to take the sugarcane sector forward and meet its potential, its productivity and sustainability goals.

There is a need for increased federal funding towards tertiary education areas like ag science and biology disciplines, so that we can continue to be world leaders in sugar research. Organisations like Sugar Research Australia are funded through grower and miller levies, and co-funded by the Queensland Government. But compared to other R&D organisations, sugar R&D investment from State and Federal Government is just a drop in the ocean compared to what the industry has the potential to offer.

Investing in growing the sugarcane industry is investment in Australia’s renewable future.

A salute to farming soldiers

This edition also marks ANZAC Day. CANEGROWERS Mackay pays tribute to the service of armed forces veterans and those currently serving. We especially acknowledge those from farming families and communities.

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Marketing isn’t something you’re either “good at” or not. It’s a skill – and like any skill, it can be learned, practiced + improved. If you’re running a small business or juggling a volunteer role in a community group, chances are you’re already doing some form of marketing (look at you go!). Whether it’s posting on socials, updating a website, talking to people about what you do – it all counts, it’s all marketing.

So where do you start?

When it comes to doing your own marketing, you can still be strategic (and therefore, less time wasted!). Here’s a simple approach we recommend to get you heading in the right direction:

Pick a clear goal > What do you want your marketing to do? More sales? More sign-ups? More sizable audience? Focus on one thing to begin with – and go after that, then hit the next goal on your list.

Know who you’re trying to reach > What matters to them? Where do they spend time? What would make them stop + take notice? Easy place to start – ask someone you know who is in your target market (hell, ask a whole bunch – if you can!).

Choose two > You don’t need to be everywhere. Start with 1–2 platforms to focus on to start – say Facebook + email – and get those happening consistently before you tackle the next ones.

Feel the rhythm > You don’t need to post to socials every day or send an email every week. A simple fortnightly or weekly pattern can be enough to stay visible + build connection. Before you start telling me that won’t work – how about you actually just try it, and then we can talk 😉

Try, tweak, try again > Have a go + see what works – you’ll never find out what does (and doesn’t) work otherwise. That’s how you get better – a adjust as you go + learn along the way, just like the rest of us (for reals!!).

Bottom line

You don’t need special skills or a big team to get started. A bit of focus + a willingness to give it a go can take you a long arse way – I promise. If you want to hear more from us, head to our website + sign up for Wild Oats – all kinds of hot tips coming at you every Friday >> www.rebelnation.com.au.

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What are Donald Trump’s tariffs of 145 per cent on Chinese exports going to mean for house prices in Mackay? And why would there be a connection?

To answer the second question first, many of China’s exports to the US and the rest of the world are products that contain steel. To make steel you need iron ore, the stuff that is dug up in Western Australia’s Pilbara region, and coking or metallurgical coal, the stuff that is dug up in our Bowen Basin.

If China’s exports to the US were dramatically reduced because of on-going huge tariffs, there would potentially be a drop in demand for steel and that would mean a drop in demand for steel-making coal.

We know that a thriving mining industry, in which there is a strong international demand for our coal, is an important driver for the Mackay economy and, therefore, a factor in our real estate sector.

Now to answer the first question I posed, I am going to need everyone to hold hands and peer deeply into the crystal ball in front of us. It’s a bit blurry, hey? Can’t quite make things out. Mmm, very unclear.

Oh, stop whinging … it’s a free magazine, not a paid subscription to The Fortune Teller’s Guide to Real Estate Certainty. Phhh!

Despite the negativity, I’ll plough on. While the crystal ball doesn’t tell us much, there are a few things to consider when contemplating the question.

It wasn’t that long ago when China placed a very public ban on coal from Australia. Now people in the industry will tell you that some Aussie coal managed to find its way into China through third countries during that period but it is also true that the industry managed to find alternative destinations for our coal exports.

So we showed that we are not entirely dependent on China, which is a good thing.

There were some huge fluctuations in stock markets when Trump announced the tariffs so it was interesting to note how, in Mackay, my open homes that weekend were incredibly busy with locals and southern investors making strong offers on properties.

I felt that those investors thought Mackay real estate, with its reasonable prices and high rents, was a stable sanctuary in a world of fluctuating stock market fortunes. There was also talk of interest rate cuts, which people like to hear.

Of course, if the Chinese tariffs are prolonged, they will have an impact on the international economy and that will not be good for real estate anywhere.

Whether or not that happens is a matter of opinion; it depends on whether you think Trump is an unpredictable, lunatic dictator with no regard for anyone but himself and his cronies or a disruptor who wants to reset the international trade dynamic and create fewer tariffs across the board, a reduced US debt and a re-ignited world economy.

Whatever your thoughts on that, we can only hope that he knows prolonged tariffs will hurt the international economy, including the US, so he will want to reach deals with trading partners as soon as possible and allow the world to get back to business.

The international economy seems to love a kick-start driven by renewed certainty.

The Herron Todd White Property Clock provides a snapshot of Australia’s real estate markets and places a particular city at 12 o’clock if it’s at the peak, 3 if it’s declining, 6 if it’s at the bottom or 9 if it’s rising.

The latest property clock puts Mackay firmly at 9 o’clock, a rising market. Others, notably Sydney and Melbourne, are in the “starting to decline” or “declining” zone of the clock.

The feeling about the Mackay market is one of confidence, with strong activity and buyer numbers that reflect our position on the property clock.

Meanwhile, the real clock is ticking on Trump and his tariffs.

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With Phoenix Counselling Services

Phoenix Counselling Services, like the mythical phoenix reborn from the flame, stands as a symbol of renewal, resilience, and hope. With compassion at its core and clarity as its guide, this transformative practice offers a path through pain…a place where wounds are gently tended, burdens are lifted, and individuals emerge empowered, ready to embrace life’s next chapter with strength and purpose.

So, Who’s The Heart Behind The Practice?

Meet Robyn Geiger – a compassionate, faith-driven woman whose heart beats for others and whose spirit is rooted in the transformative power of personal growth.

While Robyn is recognised for her wisdom today, her path to this point has been marked by its own challenges and life lessons.

Her journey is rich with lived experience, each chapter deepening her empathy and broadening her insight.

As a proud mother of four sons and a devoted grandmother (known as ‘Pinky’) to eleven beautiful grandchildren, Robyn has navigated the chaos of raising children, balancing family life, and confronting life’s emotional highs and lows.

“Because of my age and life experience, I’m able to bring empathy and understanding to what my clients are going through,” Robyn shares.

“I’ve walked many of those paths myself, and that’s why I’m so passionate about helping others now.”

What You Can Expect:

• 1:1 & couples counselling

• Grief & loss support

• Career & personal development guidance

• Family, child, & teen counselling

• EAP (Employee Assistance Program) services

• Vision boards & goal-setting

• Zoom or in-person consultations

• Team wellness assessments

• Student counselling

• Personal development seminars

A Holistic Approach to Healing

At Phoenix Counselling, you’re not just talking, you're actively co-creating the next chapter of your life. Robyn offers a wide range of services, from family and teen counselling to Christian counselling and workplace support…because she believes, “Every problem has a solution.

“Sometimes you just need to talk to someone and unpack the ‘cause and effect’ to find it.”

From grief and loss to personal development, Robyn’s sessions are filled with strategies, exercises, and the grace of compassionate conversation. Whether it's a wellness assessment, a vision board session, or a deep dive into your emotional world, Robyn brings wisdom and empathy to every conversation.

Supporting Parents and Teens

Highlighting the critical importance of supporting young adolescents, Robyn empathises with both parents and teens, noting that, “Parents have a lot of questions and a lot of challenges around raising children and teenagers today.

“These kids are our future, so we need to support them in every way we can.”

Robyn’s story weaves together joy and hardship – a lived journey that makes her not only a counsellor, but a genuine companion on the road to healing.

Having navigated the highs and lows of raising a family, Robyn understands the emotional rollercoaster that comes with it. Whether you’re a parent struggling to connect with your teen, or a teen wrestling with the pressures of growing up, Robyn has walked those paths herself. She’s ready to walk beside you, offering support, understanding, and guidance every step of the way.

Recognition and Community Support

It’s no surprise that through Phoenix Counselling Services, Robyn was recently recognised among the top three counselling practices in the region – a reflection of her ambitious commitment to guiding others as they heal, grow, and thrive.

“Moments of recognition like that really give you encouragement to keep going, and I’m very grateful to receive that honour,” she said.

Beyond one-on-one sessions, Robyn brings her support to the community, offering workshops and seminars that equip people with the tools to live their best lives. Whether it’s vision boards or grief support, Robyn’s sessions are filled with practical advice and creative exercises that help you move forward.

Embracing Creativity in Healing

If there’s one thing Robyn is known for, it’s her creativity – and her ability to embrace any challenge. When she's not guiding others, you’ll find her writing murder mystery romance novels, taking peaceful walks along the beach, or even crafting and singing her own songs.

“Creativity has a way of taking you to unexpected places,” she says.

Whether its interpreting children’s drawings or helping clients express emotions they may not yet have words for, Robyn uses art, creativity, and imagination to guide clients toward deeper self-awareness. Through this process, she helps them see the world – and themselves – in fresh, profound ways.

Healing Through Faith, Family, and Heart

At the heart of Robyn’s work lies a faith that shapes everything she does. As an active member of the Mackay Family Church of the Nazarene and a devoted pastor, her belief in transformation is one of the key foundations that guide her practice.

“My faith, my family, and helping others heal are what keep me driven,” Robyn says with gratitude.

“These pillars shape my life and my practice.”

A Call to Rise

If you’re facing challenges – whether its stress, grief, family struggles, or personal growth, Robyn encourages you to take the first step.

Phoenix Counselling Services is a place where healing begins, where understanding and support meet you, and where every session moves you closer to the life you’re meant to live.

Reach out today – because your next chapter is waiting.

How do you recharge after a long day?

“I like to have a cup of coffee, listen to music, or walk along the sand at the beach.”

What’s something you always have on your desk?

“A coffee, my phone, and my bible.”

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A transformative new workshop series in Mackay is helping local women take control of their financial future—one property at a time.

Launched by respected real estate professionals Shirlz Russell and Robyn Agius of Area Specialist Mackay, the Women’s Wealth Creation Workshop Series is more than a seminar—it’s a movement. Designed to inspire and empower women to build long-term financial security, the workshops will guide attendees through the mindset, knowledge, and strategies needed to create wealth through real estate.

The first session, Mindset & Money – Becoming Finance Ready, will take place on Thursday 8th May, with all proceeds proudly donated to local charity Broken Ballerina Inc.

“This is about giving women the tools to build their own empire—financially, mentally, and practically,” said Ms Russell.

“We want to show women that regardless of their circumstances, they can take charge and create a secure future for themselves and their families.”

With sessions running fortnightly through to June, the series covers essential topics including how to start or grow a property portfolio, the most common pitfalls to avoid, and practical strategies to become finance-ready. Each attendee will also receive free access to the Women & Wealth: Property Investment Starter Kit—a comprehensive guide designed to support the first steps on the journey to financial independence.

Women of all ages and backgrounds are encouraged to attend, whether they’re just starting out, rebuilding after life’s curveballs, or planning for retirement.

And the series comes with a major incentive—attendees who complete at least three workshops and submit a savings plan will go into the draw to win the Ultimate Kickstart to Your Wealth Journey, a prize bundle valued at over $7,000. The winner will be announced live at the Zonta International Women’s Day event in 2026.

The bundle includes $5,000 towards a house deposit, plus a host of extras from waived bank and legal fees to moving, cleaning, and air-conditioning services.

Places are limited, and demand is high for what promises to be a powerful and potentially life-changing experience.

Tickets and full details are available at shirlzrussell.au or robyna.areaspecialist.com.au.

Because financial freedom isn’t just a dream—it’s a plan.

What: Women's Wealth Creation Workshop Series

Where: 57 Wood Street, Mackay

When: Thursdays – 8 May, 22 May, 5 June, 19 June

Time: 6:00pm to 8:00pm

Tickets: Limited seats available. Book now via bit.ly/WealthWorkshop1

Hosted by: Shirlz Russell & Robyn Agius, Area Specialist Mackay

Proceeds to: Broken Ballerina Inc.

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As temperatures cool across Queensland’s subtropical regions, including Mackay, many pool owners are preparing to swap daily dips for doona days — but that doesn’t mean your pool should be forgotten. A little bit of maintenance over winter will go a long way to saving time, money, and effort when swimming season returns.

With the wet season now easing, rainfall and humidity will drop, which typically means less organic debris and algae growth. This makes it the perfect time to reduce your pool pump’s run time — around 2 to 4 hours a day is usually enough in cooler months — but don’t switch it off entirely. Stagnant water quickly becomes a breeding ground for mosquitoes and bacteria.

Check your chlorine levels regularly and adjust your chemical dosing to suit the lower water temperature. Using a pool cover will also help retain chlorine, keep leaves and debris out, and reduce water evaporation.

Brushing the pool walls and floor every few weeks, emptying skimmer baskets, and cleaning the filter are simple habits that help keep water crystal clear. If your pool is prone to staining, a metal sequestrant treatment may help avoid discolouration while the pool sits idle.

And don’t forget — winter is the perfect time to service your pool equipment. Booking a check-up now means you’ll beat the summer rush and ensure everything’s running smoothly before it’s time to dive back in.

With just a little care, your pool will stay in top shape and be ready to go as soon as the warmer weather returns, but, for now, enjoy this last month or so of refreshing dips.

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Refurbishment works at Glenfields Park, located on Wheeler Drive in Glenella, will begin on Tuesday, April 22, weather permitting.

The park will be closed for about six weeks while the refurbishment is completed.

Works will include new concrete edging around the playground, fresh sand, a new seat, earthworks, improved drainage and new turf.

Council appreciates the community’s patience during this time.

To find an alternative playground during these works, visit knowyourburb.com.au.

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In the heart of the Whitsundays, Green Energy Technologies (GET), a company owned and operated by locals for locals, boldly blazes the trail towards North Queensland's renewable future.

Established in 2010 by director Kon Flaherty and James Webb, GET has experienced explosive growth from a small team of five to over 90 dedicated staff, witnessing a tremendous 30 per cent growth rate each year across offices in the Whitsundays, Mackay and Townsville. GET is Queensland's number one solar installer, delivering expertly tailored solar and battery solutions to homes and businesses across the region for over 15 years.

For Whitsundays locals, GET’s unwavering commitment to community-driven service guarantees that sustainable energy is affordable and accessible for decades to come. All of which is made possible through the steadfast effort of GET’s expert staff.

One such expert is Senior Renewable Energy Specialist, Ian Eman, who joined GET in 2019.

Ian brings a wealth of knowledge and experience from his background as an electrical engineer and his time at United Energy in Victoria. Transitioning to GET after a stint in real estate, Ian now fuses his technical proficiency with his strong customer relationship skills in order to deliver client-focused solar and battery solutions to Whitsunday locals.

“Our goal is simple; our entire focus is the client's electricity bill and how to reduce it to zero.

“That’s what sets us apart, we are not a product-focused solar company, our focus is on our clients,” explains Ian.

GET achieves this goal through premium solar systems and an innovative monitoring application that tracks savings, identifies battery needs and ensures long-term performance.

The systems are built to endure, with warranties and guarantees for a minimum of 10 years. Installation takes just 4-6 weeks, and every GET system brings with it a lifetime service guarantee covering repairs, maintenance, and diagnostics.

For Ian and the GET team, affordability is a key priority; therefore, to dispel the myth that switching to solar costs $10,000 to $40,000 upfront, Ian draws attention to Government rebates and zero-interest green loans, which make the switch to solar seamless, requiring no upfront costs.

"Clients save money immediately with their repayments being less than or equal to what they pay for remaining on the grid,” Ian added.

It is important to note that the environmental impact is profound. A 6.6 kW system offsets carbon equivalent to replanting 300 trees annually, while a 13kW system doubles that to 600 trees.

This aligns with GET’s mission to transition Australia to renewables with “a reliable, high-performance solar solution, backed by our savings guarantee.”

GET understands the Whitsundays’ unique needs and empowers residents to embrace clean energy to contribute to a greener future for Queensland.

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Senior Renewable Energy Specialist, Ian Eman, joined Green Energy Technologies in 2019

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That is a tough question. The Reef is many things to many people and there are many ways to value the Reef.

But it is more than just another coral reef.

The Great Barrier Reef is in Australia’s cultural DNA. It is integral to the identity of Australia’s Traditional Owners. What’s more, its status as one the seven natural wonders of the world makes it an international asset. In many ways, it hardly seems necessary to quantify its value. The value of the Great Barrier Reef is priceless and we know that there is no replacement.

But just for fun, let’s do our best to identify its value and we will start by looking at some hard, cold cash figures on the Reef…the economic value of the Reef.

A few years ago, Deloitte Access Economics did some economic modelling on the Reef. This is what they found:

·         The Great Barrier Reef has an economic, social and icon asset value of $56 billion.

·         It supports 64,000 jobs

·         It contributes $6.4 billion annually to the Australian economy.

Wow, those are some impressive figures.

Let’s now look at the cultural and social value of the Reef.

·         Indigenous Significance: the Reef is a significant cultural site for Indigenous communities, with connections dating back over 60,000 years.

·         Recreational and Tourism: the Reef offers diverse recreational opportunities for visitors, including diving, snorkeling, sailing, and wildlife viewing.

·         International Recognition: the Reef is a globally recognized icon, attracting millions of visitors and contributing to Australia's international brand.

Let’s finish off by looking at its ecological and biodiversity value, no doubt the most important of all values. Without a healthy Reef, all other values suffer.

·         World Heritage Site: the Reef is a World Heritage site, recognized for its exceptional natural value.

·         Biodiversity Hotspot: the Reef is home to a vast array of marine life, including over 1,650 fish species, 1400 types of coral, over 3000 species of molluscs (shell), six of the world’s seven species of sea turtles, 133 species of sharks and rays…need I go on.

·         Ecosystem Services: the Reef provides crucial ecosystem services including; provide the spawning and nursery grounds that economically important fish populations need to thrive, help to protect coastal communities from storm surges and erosion from waves, both of which are likely to increase in the face of sea-level rise, coral reefs are also the Earth’s “medicine cabinet” as many medicines have been derived from coral reef organisms.

At the end of the day, I am sure that there is one thing we can all agree on; the value of the Great Barrier Reef is priceless and we know that there is no replacement.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Conservation Council.

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The Great Barrier Reef. Photo supplied.

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We have been recording whale songs and social noises in the Whitsundays for the last two whale seasons.  Last week I wrote about why we are recording them and about the songs.

The way we record them is using a hydrophone, which is an underwater microphone, connected to an amplifier and a recording device.

We can record humpback whales 5 to 10 kilometers away, so we don’t have to see whales, to record them.   A whale song lasts around 30 minutes and then it is repeated over and over.  The fittest whales sing the longest, so it is thought it is a way to attract a female to mate, so she will choose the one with the best genes.

We try to record for at least 30 minutes in an attempt to capture the entire song.  Because it is constantly repeated, it doesn’t matter what section we start recording it.

Often when I start the recording there are no whales in sight.   I have the engine off with the motor tilted out of the water, hold the hydrophone cable away from the hull, and try to be in a sheltered spot to avoid water splashing against the hull of the boat. Calm days are best for recording to avoid interference.   The hydrophone is extremely sensitive and picks up boat engine noises from over 10 kilometers away, as well as wind, waves, anchor chains and mooring creaking.

Even though I can only hear whales when I start recording, usually by the time I have finished multiple pods of whales have passed me, usually single mother and calf pairs.  I have had many more close encounters with whales, when I have been stationary with the motor cut to record, than when cruising around in the boat.

Humpback songs generally range from 30Hz to 15Hz.  We use a Zoom recorder and capture in WAV format.  The WAV format audio files can be analysed visually using special software to view the audio files as a spectrogram.  We upload our recordings to the University of Queensland Cetacean Ecology Group’s research data management system, where Professor Michael Noad is the director of the Centre of Marine science and Genevieve Willians is PhD Candidate.

The image below is the spectrogram of a whale song, so we can view the audio of a song.  The songs consist of a series of themes repeated in a particular order, then repeated from the start.  Within the themes are individual units joint together to form phrases.

This year we also plan to work with Dr Olaf Meynecke from Griffith University’s Whales and Climate program who is also researching acoustic whale sounds.  The traditional methods have only captured whale sounds during daylight hours.  Dr Olaf has started deploying longer term hydrophones which capture sound 24/7.  Initially the focus will be when, where and what time of day or night whales are making noises or not making noises. Monitoring the sounds and songs of humpbacks is a helpful indicator of ecosystem health.  It can help scientists understand migration activity, patterns, mating calls and competitive behavior.

For more information and to listen to a whale song please go to the Whales of the Whitsundays Facebook page.

Contributed with thanks to Whales of the Whitsundays.

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Image credit: Spectrogram of a humpback whale song, Danielle Cholewiak, NOAA/NMFS.
Basic hydrophone recording kit, consisting of a hydrophone, amplifier and zoom recorder

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Schools across the region wrapped up the term in festive style with vibrant Easter Bonnet Parades, bringing a joyful splash of colour and creativity to classrooms and playgrounds.

Students proudly paraded their handmade bonnets, each one a unique expression of imagination and artistic flair. From bold colours to whimsical designs, the bonnets reflected the excitement of Easter and the spirit of celebration that marks the end of term.

The parades have become a cherished tradition in many schools, offering students a fun and creative outlet while bringing the school community together to celebrate the season.

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Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Christian College, Cannonvale State School and Bowen State School

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The Bowen Health Connection event united local community members and health service providers for a day devoted to health and wellbeing across the entire spectrum of life, from babies to the elderly.

Brought to life through the hard work and dedication of Stephanie Cora, executive officer of the Bowen Community Centre, and Josephenie Ferguson, community liaison officer with the Together Strong, Connected Care program.

“The intention of the event was to not just focus on women's health but health in general for people of all age groups, whether you're a parent with a new-born or a senior seeking support," said Ms Cora.

The overarching purpose of Bowen Health Connection was to make local health services more visible and approachable, giving residents the opportunity to access programs which support their health and ultimately improve their quality of life.

Booths and displays were erected for a range of health services, with providers on deck to answer questions and supply attendees with resources.

“Our goal was to give locals a clearer picture of the health services available to them here in the community,” said Ms Ferguson.

The event was made possible through the generous funding from Give Queensland and Q call, whose support allowed the organisers to breathe life into the idea. Both Ms Cora and Ms Ferguson expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the funding and the strong community turnout.

By shifting the focus on inclusion, awareness and access, The Bowen Health Connection succeeded in ensuring essential health information was delivered to the individuals most in need.

“We hope this becomes a regular event,” said Ms Ferguson. “Because healthy communities start with connection.”

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Stephanie Cox and Bowen Health Connection Organisers. Photo Supplied
Josephine Ferguson and Stephanie Cox
Paige Cox and Raeni Ashton of Selectability
Antoinette du Toit and Carol Norris, Senior Coordinator and CEO of Greater Whitsunday Communities
Josephine Ferguson Together Strong Connected Care
Anna Cubis, Linette Leville, Isla Caskie, Penny King of NWRH
Joanne Mulcahy of TRACC
Kaylee Ahern of Headspace and Megan Waite of Madec
Amanda Hunter of Wellways
Tiarna Ezzy of Footprints Community
Ariko Idagi of Girudala Family Support
Michelle Bates and Alicia Gubb of Frail Age Service
Stella Life Care, Stella Community

Photo Credit: Munir Kilic

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Will Donald Trump’s presidency lead to a stock market crash and how will that affect your retirement plans?

We’ve all watched on as Donald Trump has taken a wrecking ball to the established world order over the last few months.  This has led to what is officially called ‘a correction’, where share markets have fallen by over 10%.  Will this turn into a ‘crash’ where markets fall over 20% from their highs?  The real answer is no one knows.  Trump’s policies are so aggressive that no one has any precedence or prior experience of them to accurately gauge their impact on investment markets.  Trump has openly announced that there may be more economic pain to investment markets as he reshapes how countries defend themselves and trade with the US.

We’ve fielded several calls from people who’ve recently retired or are close to retiring, concerned that their Super or Pension fund balance has dropped since the start of the year.  This is the first ‘correction’ on world investment markets for several years and it naturally makes people worried about their financial security.  No one retires and wants to have to go back to work for 5 years to rebuild their super balance.

Establishing a solid financial plan for retirement means getting your head around a few different concepts.  One is having at least a basic understanding of how investing works.  Another is accepting that there will be investment corrections and crashes and having a proven plan in place to protect against them.  Once you have these, you can sleep better at night.

At Eclipse our style has always been to explain things to people over a couple of free interviews before we decide whether to proceed to formal written advice.  This provides time to identify where you’re at, how much you have got in the pot, how old you are and what sort of income and lifestyle you’re chasing in retirement.  We then look at where your money is invested now and explain how investment markets work in simple terms on a whiteboard.  If protecting against market crashes is important to you (and it always is!) we will then explain how we protect retirees against crashes.  We’ll also look at how things like Age Pension work and explain the pros and cons of the different types of super pensions and what suits your situation.

All this is done over a coffee in one or two free interviews and should give you plenty of food for thought.  Once we understand the scope of work required, we will clearly quote any fees to proceed with formal written advice so you can make an educated decision.

For a free consultation with local people who understand the complexities of these or any other financial matter, contact Eclipse Financial Planning at Cannonvale on 49467359 today or visit www.eclipsefp.com.au

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Nestled along the pristine waterfront of the Coral Sea, Marina Shores Airlie beach offers guests an unparalleled fusion of luxury, style and striking views. My recent tour of this exquisite property, under the guidance of the knowledgeable Ross Martin. Demonstrated why Marina Shores raises the bar for luxury living in the Whitsundays. From its elegantly designed accomodations to it’s enviable amenities, Marina Shores is a for seekers of indulgence and serenity.

The tour commenced with a journey through the property’s diverse range of rooms, each painstakingly tailored to maximise comfort and capitalise on the stunning surroundings of the Whitsunday coast. On the ground floor, I viewed the one-bedrom apartments. These spacious units exude modern grace and elegance, with open-plan layouts and large windows that warmly invite natural light. Ascending to the second floor, Ross introduced the two and three bedroom apartments, Which offer Garden, Marina or Ocean views. Ideal for families or groups, these cosy abodes provide ample space and private decks perfectly suited for soaking in the beauty of the Whitsunday Islands.The highlight however, was the third-floor penthouses. Available in two, three or four-bedroom layouts, these lavishly luxurious suites boast both Marina and Ocean views, featuring expansive decks perfect for entertaining guests or quiet reflection. Designed by renowned Ken Down Architects, every room at Marina Shores features vogue interiors, state-of-the-art lightning, and a harmonious interplay of space, light and colour.

Beyond luxury accomodation, Marina Shores offers amenities which uplift the guest experience to even greater heights. Ross proudly showcased the large, heated pool, a standout feature that ensures year-round enjoyment for guests, especially on cool winter nights. The property’s viewing platform cosily tucked away in the back was a personal favourite. This vantage point presents a panoramic view of the surrounding woodland and marina, furnishing guests with a serene spot to relax and unwind. These excellent facilities combined with the fully self-contained, serviced apartments, serve to make Marina Shores a must stay destination which caters to both relaxation and sophistication.

Ross also shared insights into the broader portfolio of the at Hotel Group, which manages Marina Shores. The group oversees an impressive 1,010 properties across Australia, including eight in Airlie Beach, They also operate the Grand Mercure on the tropical gem of Magnetic Island, and a Mantra property in the quaint coastal retreat of Nelson Bay. This diverse collection underscores the group’s commitment to delivering exceptional hospitality in some of Australia’s most sought-after destinations.

Marina Shores is the jewel of Airlie Beach’s crown. Situated at Abel Point Marina and offering wonderous waterfront living with views  spanning across the Whitsunday Islands. The property’s design prioritizes pure decadence, with spacious decks, luxurious finishes, and an ambiance of both exclusivity and inticement. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family holiday, or a lavish escape, Marina Shores delivers an experience as unforgettable as the Whitsundays themselves. For those planning a visit, this property promises not just a stay, but the experience of a lifetime.

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Waterview Apartment in Marina Shores. Photo Supplied.
Apartment Room In Marina Shores. Photo Supplied.
Bedroom in Marina Shores. Photo Supplied.

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Blink and you’ll miss them, but catch a glimpse and you might think you’ve discovered an alien lifeform. Nudibranchs are the ocean’s most flamboyant residents: tiny, slow-moving sea slugs adorned in neon colours, wild patterns and surreal shapes. Like living confetti, they drift across the seafloor. For divers in the know, spotting one is a very special moment.

These vibrant creatures come in an astonishing array of shapes, sizes and colours. Yet despite their dazzling appearance, nudibranchs can be surprisingly difficult to find, often camouflaging perfectly with their surroundings.

They inhabit a wide range of marine environments, from shallow rock pools and coral reefs to sandy seabeds and the dark depths more than 2,000 metres below the surface. As benthic animals, they spend their lives crawling along the ocean floor.

But nudibranchs are more than just a visual delight. As carnivores, they play a vital role in the marine food web, feeding on sea anemones, sponges, soft corals, tunicates and other invertebrates, while also serving as prey for other sea slugs, crabs, lobsters, turtles and even humans. Most of their time is spent grazing or hunting for food.

To eat, many rely on a specialised, toothed structure called a radula, used to scrape or tear food from surfaces. Some species go further, injecting prey with digestive enzymes before sucking out the liquefied tissues. Others have developed a remarkable partnership with symbiotic algae, harnessing sunlight to produce energy in a process similar to corals.

Beyond their ecological role, nudibranchs are gaining recognition as important indicator species. Their populations respond rapidly to changes in the environment, making them valuable barometers of ocean health. A sudden increase or decline in nudibranch numbers can signal broader environmental shifts, particularly those driven by climate change. As coral reefs — one of their preferred habitats — are among the most vulnerable ecosystems, the presence of nudibranchs can reveal much about their condition and resilience.

Fast fact: NUDI'S WERE UNKNOWN UNTIL THE 18TH CENTURY

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