This week I was in Brisbane flying the flag for the Whitsundays at the Delivering 2032 Queensland Infrastructure Summit, a gathering of government, industry and local leaders focused on one thing: turning the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games into a legacy that lasts generations.

For us here in the Whitsundays, these conversations are more than just capital city talk. I am passionate about ensuring regional Queensland, and especially the Whitsundays, is not left on the sidelines but right at the heart of funding and planning discussions.

We are proud to be the Home of Olympic Sailing for 2032, and I want to again thank the Crisafulli Government for its vision and support in confirming that the world’s best sailors will compete right here in our own backyard. That decision is a once in a lifetime opportunity to showcase the Whitsundays on the global stage.

But the real opportunity lies beyond race week, in the long-term investment and legacy infrastructure that will help our region grow stronger and more connected. Now is the time to secure the roads, ports, housing and community facilities that will serve locals long after the Games are over.

At the Summit, I joined Mayors, Ministers and industry leaders to discuss the projects that will define Queensland’s future: smarter transport links, resilient regional roads, sustainable water and energy systems, and the new digital tools helping deliver them faster and more efficiently. These are the building blocks of thriving, future ready communities like ours.

The Whitsundays already has the natural stage, with 74 islands, world class waters and a welcoming spirit, but to seize the 2032 moment we need the right supporting cast: upgraded precincts, affordable housing, better regional connectivity, and pathways that give our young people the skills and opportunities to be part of this growth.

What I value most about forums like this is that they put regional voices in the room. They remind decision makers that a lasting Olympic legacy must reach far beyond Brisbane, into places like Bowen, Airlie Beach, Proserpine and Collinsville, where investment can truly transform lives for generations.

The Games will come and go in a fortnight, but the legacy we build can last for decades. My focus is making sure the Whitsundays is ready, not just to host the world, but to thrive long after the sails come down.

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Specialist in Fundraising Operations

This month, we feature Whitsundays Chamber member Sue Birch, a business consultant specialising in fundraising operations, who relocated from Brisbane to Airlie Beach in April 2024.

Since founding Sue Birch Consulting in 2020, Sue has helped not-for-profit organisations transform their operational capability by enhancing people, processes, technology, and data management.

With over 15 years in the not-for-profit sector, Sue recognised a gap in the market. “Many consulting firms focus on fundraising strategy or isolated aspects like technology, but I saw that organisations were falling short of their fundraising potential due to weak processes, underused technology, and poor-quality data,” Sue explains. By specialising in operational transformation, she provides comprehensive support not found elsewhere — from best-practice advice to coaching, mentoring, and hands-on implementation.

Industry trends are rapidly evolving, particularly around data quality, cyber security, and AI. Organisations are increasingly aware that strong data management underpins effective fundraising and safe technology use. “AI is becoming an exciting tool for fundraising, but its effectiveness depends entirely on high-quality data,” Sue says. To stay ahead, she attended a global data management conference in the USA in 2025, gaining fresh insights into these trends.

Looking to the future, Sue is considering expanding her services beyond not-for-profits into government and private sectors where values align. “My skills are highly transferable and could benefit a broader range of organisations,” she notes.

Sue’s advice for other business owners:

Live your life with intent and purpose.
Ensure your work aligns with your values.
Be selective about whose advice you follow.

As a Chamber member, Sue values staying connected with the region’s business community. “It’s a great way to know what’s happening locally and get involved where I can add value.

Learn more about Sue Birch Consulting: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sue-birch/

Sue Birch. Photo supplied.

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In a challenging landscape for the live music industry, the Airlie Beach Festival of Music is defying trends by introducing new, innovative ticket and accommodation options designed to ensure the festival's continued success and accessibility. As other events face cancellations, the festival is excited to announce the introduction of dedicated camping packages and flexible 2-day tickets for its upcoming event.

The new strategies are already delivering tangible success: the festival has recorded a huge 40% increase in ticket sales so far in 2025. Together with the epic lineup, made possible by the Revive Live Program funding, bringing Jessica Mouboy and Pete Murray to the Main Stage.

Festival Founder and Director, Gavin ‘Butto’ Butlin, stated, "We are constantly looking for ways to enhance the festival experience and provide more value to our attendees. While many festivals are struggling, we believe our focus on innovation, affordability, and the unique beauty of our location sets us apart. The new camping and 2-day ticket packages are a direct response to what our audience is asking for - more flexibility and more ways to make this incredible music holiday happen."

The new offerings are set to attract a wider demographic of music lovers, from budget-conscious to road-trippers. The Camping and Festival Tickets Package offers a seamless, all-in-one solution for attendees with who are chasing a true festival experience, providing a secure and convenient base at the Whitsunday Sports Park.

Additionally, the festival has introduced two new 2-day tickets, designed for attendees who can’t make the full event. The Friday & Saturday 2-day ticket includes access to the Thursday Welcome Party, while the Saturday & Sunday 2-day ticket includes entry to the Monday Afterparty. These options provide the best of the festival experience at an accessible price point.

The truly unique element of the festival is the town wide music takeover, enthused Butto.

"By offering these new packages, we’re inviting more people to discover our secret: this isn’t just a festival, it’s the ultimate music holiday. We’re confident these innovations will help us not only survive but thrive in the current climate and continue to be a leading event for music lovers everywhere," Butto said.

Tickets and packages are now available online at the official Airlie Beach Festival of Music website.

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The iconic Big Mango at Bowen is a favourite among travellers.

The 10-metre-high replica of the “Kensington Pride” mango was built in 2002 at a cost of $90,000.

Located on the Bruce Highway just 5km south of Bowen, the Big Mango was named the “Best Big Thing” in Queensland in 2025 as part of the Premier’s Awards on Queensland Day – and that was decided purely by public vote.

Bowen is the Australian birthplace The Kensington Pride variety of mango which was introduced from India in the late 1800s.

The Big Mango is located right next to the award-winning Bowen Visitor Information Centre which attracted more than 56,000 visitors in the past financial year.

In 2025, the Big Mango was featured on a special $1 coin launched in September by the Royal Australian Mint and Australia Post.

It is also featured on the board of the Whitsundays edition of Monopoly and will be featured on the “Big Things of Oz” Monopoly which will be released later this year.

The Big Mango is a must-stop selfie spot for anyone driving in Queensland.

Many travellers, including international visitors, love to stop at all the big things in Queensland at other states of Australia and the Big Mango is certainly a favourite.

For anyone planning a trip, don’t forget to check out the large range of mango products and other Bowen merchandise at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre right next door.

Mango with big mango. Photo supplied.

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By Ruth Puddefoot

Visitors and locals in the Whitsundays are reminded to stay alert when encountering marine turtles, and to know the proper steps to help if a turtle appears sick, injured, or stranded. Acting quickly and correctly can make a life-or-death difference for these vulnerable animals.

If you come across a turtle in distress, call the Marine Animal Stranding Hotline on 1300 130 372. This line connects directly to wildlife authorities and the Whitsunday Turtle Rescue Centre, who can assess the turtle’s condition and dispatch help if needed. Reporting a sick, injured, or stranded marine animal immediately is essential.

Follow the instructions given by rescue staff carefully. They may ask you to monitor the turtle from a safe distance, assist with basic first aid, or help stabilise it while waiting for trained rescuers. If instructed, keep the turtle shaded, cover it with a wet towel if it’s hot, or a dry towel if cool or windy, and avoid pouring water into its nostrils or mouth. Minimise handling to prevent further stress, and never attempt to move or transport the turtle unless explicitly directed by experts.

It’s important to distinguish between a turtle that is basking and one that is in trouble. Basking turtles float calmly at the surface to rest, warm up, digest food, or absorb oxygen. Normal signs include smooth, controlled breathing, even flotation, alert eyes, and calm behaviour.

Turtles in distress may float on one side or backwards, be unable to control buoyancy, appear lethargic, or show obvious injuries such as bleeding, entanglement, or shell damage. Washed-up turtles or those with sunken eyes, excessive barnacles, or discoloured shells also need immediate attention.

Quick action is vital. Even turtles with minor visible injuries may be suffering internal trauma, infections, or shock. Keep noise and disturbance low, secure pets and bystanders, and avoid feeding or handling the turtle unnecessarily.

If in doubt, always call 1300 130 372. Observing quietly, taking photos or short videos, and noting breathing or movement can help rescuers assess the situation remotely. By following these steps, Whitsundays residents and visitors can protect these iconic marine animals and help ensure their survival for generations to come.
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These days there is much publicity surrounding the arrival of cruise ships to the Whitsundays but the forerunners of these modern marvels began visiting our waters nine decades ago.

As early as Saturday, June 2 1934, the lure of the Whitsundays was acknowledged in a “Courier Mail” article, “Touring Queensland”. “This winter everything possible is being done to entertain visitors, and opportunities will be given tourists of viewing the beauties of Whitsunday. … The steamship services from Brisbane commenced yesterday, when the passenger steamer “Wandana” left for the North with thirty-one passengers, and today the steamer “Canberra” will inaugurate the service from Melbourne. The “Katoomba” is leaving Sydney today for a special cruise to Cairns via the Whitsunday Passage on the Barrier Reef, calling at Scawfell, West Molle, Long, Hayman and Lindeman Islands.”

Cruise ship arrivals in the 1930s were also noted in the 2002 publication, “Long ago, I dreamt of an island”. The author, Boyd Anderson, reported, “The first group of guests (on Daydream Island) arrived on cruise ships like the “Canberra”, “Ormiston”, “Manoora” and “Kanimbla” which used to anchor off-shore. There was no wharf or jetty in those days. Crews rowed guests closer to shore by longboats and then they were ferried aboard the yacht, “Day Dream”. Since there was no jetty, passengers simply walked the gangplank from boat to beach.” To reach Daydream by steamer, the cost of a first-class ticket return to Sydney was 18 pounds 10 shillings (about $37). The second class return fare was 12 pounds 17 shillings and 6 pence.

Fast forward to the 1950s and the increasing popularity of the Whitsunday islands was further evidenced by the arrival of several groups of American tourists to the area, albeit by DC4 from Cairns. On February 7, 1958, the “Proserpine Guardian” reported that a “party of thirty American tourists from “SS Lurline” paid a whirlwind visit to Hayman Island … sixteen members of the party went to the Outer Barrier Reef.”

In a subsequent article on March 7 1958, the “Guardian” published a brief story about a party of forty American tourists on the Pacific-Far East cruise who arrived in Proserpine by Convair. The group “spent early Monday and Tuesday on Hayman Island and were taken to view the coral and the aboriginal caves on Hook Island. They left on Wednesday to rejoin the Norwegian ship, “Kungsholm”.

In the 1970s, the Whitsundays moved strongly towards tourism, encouraging people from all over the world to visit the area and cruise ships began anchoring at Cid Harbour for that very purpose. One of several local boats, “Torres Herald” (the others being “Trinity” and the ex-Sydney to Hobart yacht, “Solo”) ferried passengers from the ships to shore excursions. They faced many challenges endeavouring to keep steady alongside a very small pontoon beside the ship’s gangway at the water line. P&O’s “Arcadia” and “Fairstar” visited the area a couple of times each year - and it was not unusual to collect passengers along the way. On December 27, 1974, “Proserpine Guardian” noted that the “Fairstar”, carrying 1234 passengers, was on its third trip to the Whitsunday Passage.

Excursions were offered to the cruise ship passengers, among them, trips to Nara Inlet to view the aboriginal art; to Dent Island to admire the coral and the black coral jewellery and other displays owned by Leen and Bill Wallace; and to deserted islands with the option of fishing or just relaxing. There were usually thirty - forty tourists on board each boat, and lunch was provided.

From humble beginnings, the Whitsundays is now experiencing a burgeoning cruise ship industry.

Story courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum

Photo courtesy of “Australia’s Great Barrier Reef: Daydream Island” by David Keenan (published by Glenmede Pty Ltd 1995.)

Guests arriving at Daydream Island aboard SS Katoomba Circa 1935. Photo supplied.

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Hello!

Welcome to this week’s Ruth2Reef! In this edition, we dive into fascinating stories on crocodile eyes, what to do if you spot an injured turtle, and the incredible lives of Spanish mackerels and seahorses.

Last week, I had the wonderful opportunity to help release one of Eco Barge’s rescued turtles, which was an unforgettable experience. I’ve also been exploring wildlife photography in my spare time, so keep an eye out for some of my own photos featured in this edition.

I hope you enjoy reading and discovering more about the amazing marine life around us.

Happy reading,
Ruth

"We don't own the planet Earth, we belong to it. And we must share it with our wildlife" - Steve Irwin.

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The Spanish Mackerel (Scomberomorus commerson) is not only a very popular fish but it is a very important fish.

Spanish mackerel are a higher order predator and play a significant ecological role on the Great Barrier Reef. They are also of high economic and social value to the fishing businesses and recreational fishers that catch them. And, finally, the Spanish Mackerel has become a very controversial fish.

Spanish mackerel are a long, narrow fish and grow to a maximum length of over 2.4 meters and a weight of around 70 kg, though they are commonly caught between 55-125 cm and weighing 2-15 kg.

Spanish Mackerel are known for their impressive swimming speed. They are among the fastest fish in the ocean and can reach speeds of up to 80 km per hour when they are in pursuit of prey or evading predators.

They generally live around 11 years but have been known to live as long as 20 years.

The controversy surrounding the Spanish Mackerel is all about the management of the Spanish Mackerel fisheries.

A comprehensive stock assessment done in 2020, 2021, showed that the biomass on the east coast of Queensland was down to about 17 per cent. That showed that the fishery was depleted, and action needed to be taken to rebuild the stocks.

In July 2023, the Queensland government implemented significant reductions to commercial and recreational catch limits. This move was designed to allow the Spanish Mackerel population to build to sustainable levels.

However, in August 2025, the Queensland government announced results from a new stock assessment, suggesting Spanish mackerel populations had doubled since 2021. Based on this new data, the government has proposed increasing commercial catch limits by over 50% and doubling the limit for recreational fishers.

Many conservationists and fisheries biologist fear that such a move would be premature. They feel the state government should wait until it saw stronger evidence of stock recovery for changes to be made to catch limits.

It is important to note that we are talking about a fishery working within the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area. But the Reef is under unprecedented pressure from global warming. Additionally, water pollution and unsustainable fishing practices also take a toll on the Reef.

To give our Reef a fighting chance, we need to do all that we can to tackle the local pressures of unsustainable fishing practices and water pollution, to increase the resilience of the Great Barrier Reef. To increase that resilience, we need healthy fish populations. Fisheries management within a world heritage area should be held to the highest possible standards, and that includes ensuring that fish stocks are not overfished.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Conservation Council.

Spanish Mackerel. Photo supplied.

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Meals on Wheels Proserpine is calling for community support, with an urgent need for volunteers to help deliver and cook meals and help those in need.

At the organisation’s Annual General Meeting held in late September the ongoing shortage of volunteers was highlighted as a major concern.

Meals on Wheels Proserpine is currently seeking kitchen volunteers, delivery drivers, and people interested in helping to organise fundraising initiatives.

The service provides nutritious meals and social connection for people across the community, including seniors and those with limited mobility.

Meals on Wheels is a volunteer based kitchen that provide delivered affordable, nutritious meals to seniors, people with disabilities, and others who are unable to cook for themselves.

Each delivery is made by volunteers who not only bring a meal but also provide a friendly check-in and social connection. Funded through a combination of government support and client contributions, the program helps people maintain their independence and continue living comfortably in their own homes.

Anyone able to assist in any capacity is encouraged to contact Helen on 4945 1733.

Can you volunteer time to Meals On Wheels Proserpine? Contact Helen on 4945 1733. Photo sourced: Facebook

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The Queensland Fire Department (QFD) have imposed a local fire ban for residents in the Whitsunday Local Government Areas. The fire ban was placed from 12:01am on Wednesday 8 October.

The current conditions are perfect for bushfires to ignite and spread quickly.

Under a local fire ban all open fires are prohibited and all Permits to Light Fire which have been issued in the designated areas have been suspended for the duration of the ban.

Power tools may be used during a local fire ban however QFD encourages people to use these with extreme care and ensure adequate equipment is available to extinguish any fire which may start. This may include having a person available to watch out for any ignitions that occur.

The ban is expected to remain in place until 11:59pm on Tuesday 21 October.

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The 2025 Ramped Up Whitsundays hosted by The Rumble was an extraordinary success.

The two-day skateboarding competition brought a real excitement to the region, with the sport not having regular events.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said last year’s inaugural Ramped Up event brought a real buzz to the Whitsundays and attracted competitors, families and spectators from across Queensland and interstate.

“It delivered strong economic benefits for our local businesses and tourism operators, especially in Cannonvale and Bowen. The 2024 event injected an estimated $783,000 into the regional economy, which is an incredible return for a grassroots sporting event," he said.

“Sport has always been something that brings people together and opens doors, especially for our young people. Whether it is out on the water, on the field or at the skatepark, it helps build confidence and a real sense of community.

“Council is proud to get behind events like Ramped Up through our Major Festivals and Events Sponsorship Program.

“They showcase our great facilities, but more importantly they inspire the next generation of athletes and active families right here in the Whitsundays.”

Before the weekend Mayor Ry Collins also said they expected this years' event to build on the success of last years.

“We’re expecting this year’s event to build on that success, with more than 140 competitors, around 1,200 visiting spectators and over 4,400 visitor nights projected across the region. That is a huge boost for local accommodation, small business and tourism operators.”

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A local seniors singing group known for its laughter, music, and community spirit is preparing to take the stage later this month for a special concert celebrating friendship, fun, and the power of song.

The Mommas and Poppas, a group of mostly senior musicians and singers who have been performing together for about five years, will hold their next concert at the Proserpine Uniting Church on Thursday 23rd of October at 10am.

The event, titled Chansons d’Amour Concert, is open to the public and promises a lively morning of entertainment, morning tea, and lunch.

The concert is also being held in honour of a milestone birthday for Church Reverand Suzy Sitton, who wanted the occasion to bring joy to members of the community who don’t often have the chance to get out and socialise.

“She requested that we try and have people from the community come who don't often get out in, or go out during the day,” explained group member Ross.

“Suzy's idea, originally, was to have a concert that will get people out during the day, and give them some activity and a bit of fun and food.”

The Mommas and Poppas formed shortly after Cyclone Debbie, thanks to the efforts of Colleen Burns, who recognised a need for cultural and social connection among local seniors. Since then, the group has met weekly at Colleen’s home in Proserpine, performing at community events such as the Proserpine Uniting Church Flower Show, St Catherine’s Fete, and Grandparents Day at the library.

Ross explained that the Mommas and Poppas group are mostly a social group that love the socialising the group brings.

The group has become known for its festive performances, often dressing up for St Patrick’s Day and Christmas events, and featuring everything from guitars and harmonicas to percussion and drums.

The October 23 concert runs from 10am to 12pm, with entry by donation. Guests can enjoy morning tea, lunch, raffles, and a chance to sing along with the Mommas and Poppas as they share their music with the wider community.

“It should be a great day,” Ross said. “A bit of fun, some good food, and plenty of music, that’s what it’s all about.”

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This year Queensland Mental Health Week starts from 4-12 October and is the perfect time to come together and raise awareness about mental health and wellbeing.

One in five Australians aged 16-85 (22%) are estimated to have experienced a mental disorder in the last 12 months, while more than two in five (43%) have experienced one in their lifetime.

The theme of the year - ‘connect for mental health’ - invites us all to reflect on the importance of connections – with ourselves, others, our community, and nature, and how it can positively impact mental health.

selectability is proud to be a vital part in enhancing the mental wellbeing of regional Queenslanders.

With a strong focus on tailored support, the team are committed to fostering community connections by providing accessible support through a wide range of services, programs, and initiatives.

Jenelle Maher, selectability Bowen regional coordinator, said programs like the Clubhouse offer a safe and welcoming environment for individuals to build new skills, share experiences, and work towards improved mental wellbeing.

“Whether it’s getting involved in self-reflection activities, engaging with others through games and puzzles, or connecting with the community and nature by fishing at the Jetty or BBQs at the beach,” said Jenelle.

“These activities are designed to foster connection and support but also reduce loneliness.”

For anyone over 18 seeking support to improve their mental wellbeing, there are a range of NDIS packages available, and funding options for those not on the scheme. To find out more contact the team on 07 4864 3000.

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The Whitsunday Game Fish Club is holding a How To, Hands On night on all things fishing this Friday, October 10, from 6pm at the Marine Club on Altmann Avenue, Cannonvale — and everyone’s welcome.

This will be an evening where you can learn a host of new skills or brush up on old ones under the guidance of experienced club members.

Activities will include making wind-on leaders, twisting wire traces, bait rigging, lure presentation, tying strong knots, tackle selection, setting up your rods and reels, and various other skills to help make your next fishing trip more successful.

You can bring your own rods, reels, tackle, and bait, and take them home ready to go — or use some of the gear provided on the night.
Club members will be on hand to share their knowledge and experience with fishos of all ages. Whether you’re new to the sport or a seasoned angler, there’ll be something for everyone.

Bring the whole family along — sausages will be sizzling, and the bar will be open from 6pm for an enjoyable evening of learning and good company.

WHAT: Hands On Night
WHERE: The Marine Club on Altmann ave. Cannonvale
WHEN: Friday 10th October at 6pm

The future of fishing. Photos supplied

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The Bowen Visitor Information Centre next to the iconic Big Mango has smashed previous records, welcoming an incredible 24,730 visitors in the first three months of this financial year.

July was the biggest month yet, with 9462 people stopping in — up from 7002 the same time last year.

August followed with 7057 visitors (up from 5907), while September soared to 8211 visitors, compared to 6646 last year.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy, said the results exceeded all expectations.

“School holidays, the grey nomad season and events like the Don River Dash always make this our busiest time of year,” she said.

“But this year, the numbers were boosted even further by the Gilmour Space Technologies rocket launch, the return of the Bowen Fishing Classic, and the media attention from recent awards.”

The excitement peaked in late September when the Big Mango souvenir coins went on sale.

Two days prior to the sale of the coins at the centre, the team of staff and volunteers welcomed 529 people in one day – breaking the previous daily record of 512 in June 2023.

When the coin did go on sale, locals and visitors lined up at the centre from 7.30am for a 9am opening, and 500 coins sold out in just 43 minutes.

On that day, a total of 539 people visited the centre, including more than 120 locals.

“We then broke another daily record a few days later with 545 visitors on September 29," added Leanne.

“Even without the coin launch, our numbers were already trending well ahead of last year.

“It’s wonderful to see so many people discovering Bowen — and we’re proud to be inspiring them to explore more of the Whitsundays region."

Of the total visitors in the quarter, 13.9% were international, up from around 12% last year.

Contributed with thanks to Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy.

QUICK FACTS
Total visitors (July–Sept 2025): 24,730
Previous year (same period): 19,555
Biggest day: September 29 – 545 visitors
Biggest month: July – 9462 visitors
International visitors: 13.9%

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Volunteer Steve Fisher, better known as “Fish”, with visitors from the UK at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre. Photo supplied