During the school term, 170,000 children across Queensland are fed breakfast through school-based breakfast programs, but with school holidays upon us, the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre has created a program to support families in need when school is out.

The Brekky Pack program provides a package of breakfast foods to help families across the region. The centre sought sponsorship to fund the packs that include: a choice of cereal, vegemite or honey, bread, milk, butter, Milo, pancake mix and juice. There were 20 families selected to receive the packs, with collection on Thursday and Friday 3rd and 4th April, ahead of the two-week school holidays.

Whitsunday Transit and Smooth Sailing Financial Consulting each sponsored 10 packs and the program aims to distribute packs at the beginning of each holiday break.

“We know that families are relying on school-based breakfast programs because of the cost of groceries, and our concern was that children won’t have that over the holidays," Rebecca Woods Executive Officer.

The Centre also provides $15 pantry packs that would retail at around $70 and other low and no-cost food options from our My Community Pantry program, these pantry packs are not means tested and are available to any who are struggling to fill their pantries. “The pantry was accessed 362 times in March and 347 in February, for bread, meat, fruit and veg," Ms Woods said

“The Centre is advocating to set up a Food Bank in the near future,” she said, as this would help support these programs and the people they help. So, if you need support, or would like to be involved with sponsoring the program, reach out to the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre on: 4946 7850 or visit them at: 14-20 Hazelwood Crescent, Cannonvale.

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Rebecca Woods, Executive Officer with a pack on display. Photo supplied: Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre

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In today’s busy world, one-on-one time with the people you love can be a rarity, and I’ll admit, I’m often guilty of not making enough time for it with my own family.

Last Sunday, however, I made a point to carve out a two-hour window for just my son and me. We often have ‘family time’ with other members of our family, but when I thought about it, I realised we haven’t had much time just the two of us lately.

We took a trip into Airlie Beach, grabbed some sushi, and then had ice cream — enjoying both while we sat on a towel on the sandy slope of the lagoon, looking at the water and the turquoise ocean beyond.

We tested the water and were delighted by the temperature, so we stripped down to our swimmers and raced in. We swam a little, then played ‘catch’ for almost an hour. It was absolute heaven. We chatted the whole time, and I really felt like I got to know my son again. Afterwards, he told me that he loved me and asked if we could do it again soon. Of course, I said yes.

If you get the chance to have some one-on-one time with a loved one over this Easter holiday, I strongly recommend it - taking the time to connect with those who matter most can offer a refreshing perspective on what really matters.

Similarly, as the Federal Election approaches, it’s important to make informed decisions about what truly matters for our region and we’ll be covering the election thoroughly while striving to remain fair and impartial.

Next Tuesday, we’ll be live-streaming the members-only ‘Meet the Candidates’ event hosted by the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce & Industry. If you’re not yet a Chamber member, now is a great time to sign up and attend an event that promises to be highly engaging.

When deciding who to vote for this election, ask yourself: Who would you want a one-on-one with? Which candidate would listen to your needs and the needs of our region the most?

Rach

Quote of the week: "You will never look back on life and say 'I spent too much time with my kids'"

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With Shell Wardrope

Local hero Michelle Shell Wardrope, whose determination and resilience have inspired the community, has successfully completed her 50-squats-per-day challenge throughout March, all while adjusting to life with only one leg after a life-changing incident last year.

In March 2023, Shell tragically lost her leg after a soil-borne bacterial infection entered her bloodstream following a fall. Despite the trauma, she channeled her energy into a mission to raise funds for the Royal Flying Doctors, the service that helped bring her home after her initial recovery.

To support her cause, Shell invited the community to join her at a special on March 30th, at the Airlie Beach Foreshore. The afternoon was filled with heartwarming moments as people gathered to cheer her on, including a special challenge to participate in her penultimate set of 50 squats.

Shell would like to make sure a big thank you goes out to everyone who made the event possible. The Mayor of Whitsunday Ry Collins joined Shell for the event, showing his support for her inspiring journey.

Mr Whipsunday kept everyone cool with free ice creams, while the local Bendigo Bank generously donated chairs and tables for the BBQ. Beagles Pizzas also provided delicious pizza for attendees, ensuring no one went hungry.

Although Shell’s journey has been difficult, she’s shown incredible strength and positivity, raising over $1,000 for the Royal Flying Doctors. The event was a beautiful display of community spirit and support, and Shell was overwhelmed by the love and encouragement from all who attended.

“I’m getting way more out of it than I ever thought I would,” Shell said. "This community has really uplifted me, and I’m so grateful for every person who has supported my journey."

The challenge may be over, but Shell’s message of resilience and the importance of helping others will continue to inspire the Whitsundays for years to come.

With the funds from the 50-squat challenge going to the Royal Flying Doctors, Shell is also currently running a personal GoFundMe page for anyone who would like to donate to help her get a new car so she can become more mobile.

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Shell Wardrope and her family with Mayor Ry Collins who attended the recent community event

Shell and her husband next to the Airlie Beach sign, moments after she completed the last set of 50-squats per day for the month of March. Photos supplied

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Collinsville is set to shine even brighter, with Federal Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry, announced this week a $250,000 commitment to deliver the next stage of the town’s beautification project if an LNP Government is elected in May.

This fresh injection of funding will deliver Stage 2 of the revitalisation, focusing on landscaping both entrances to Collinsville and enhancing the area leading to the cemetery, ensuring the first and last impressions of the town reflect the heart and pride of the local community.

Michelle Landry said the project would build on the solid foundation already laid by the LNP Government through the $741,750 delivered in 2022 under the highly successful Building Better Regions Fund for Stage 1 of the Collinsville CBD upgrades.

“I’ve fought hard to deliver real infrastructure for Collinsville. This has included a brand new QCWA hall, to the Stage 1 town centre upgrade and $1.2 million for the waterpark,” Ms Landry said.

“This additional $250,000 commitment is about finishing what we started. Collinsville is a hardworking, proud community and it deserves to look just as good as it feels to live in.

“Under the former LNP Government, we backed regional towns like Collinsville with funding that made a real difference. If elected, the LNP will get back to delivering for our regions, not forgetting them like Labor has.

“The new commitment is a clear sign the LNP is delivering for regional Queensland and the people of Collinsville.”

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Federal Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry and Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins in Collinsville where Ms Landry made a $250,000 commitment to deliver the next stage of the town’s beautification project if an LNP Government is elected in May. Photo supplied

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In May this year, Proserpine Golf Club will celebrate 100 years of chasing that little white ball. Today, the club boasts over 300 members who tee off on what is now regarded as a championship standard golf course. But 100 years ago, it was a vastly different scenario.
How it all began …

The Proserpine Golf Club was born when a group of golf lovers met at Phaff’s Paddock (the current site of Whitsunday Gold Coffee Plantation) to swing a club. Men such as local dentist of the time, W E (Bill) Hood, Claude Kieran, Matt Ingram, Fred Barnes and Arthur Toohey are some of the names of early golfers recorded in past notes from these early days. Soon, many other local citizens and their wives joined and a club was formed with Council Chairman, Bob Shepherd as patron.

A small golf course with no recognised fairways was drawn up. However, the paddock had to be shared with several football clubs. The local Ramblers, All Blacks and other footballers played on this field and the place became overcrowded however it served the purpose until the committee decided to lease the showgrounds.

But conditions at the showgrounds were poor. The only shade available was provided by the spreading branches of trees and water had to be taken there in a bottle. A shelter was desperately required and so too were funds. Mr C E Mazlin spearheaded a working party which gathered black mangrove timber and built a rustic shelter – such ingenuity.

Eventually, a small clubhouse was erected a short distance from the present entrance to the grounds and opened in 1932. From there, players hit the ball down the fairway towards the horse paddock. After that, it was across the show ring where the fence rails were often a hazard, then towards the cattle yards and then Pig Creek and by the time the course had been completed, players had done a full circuit of the showgrounds.

The Golf Club provided more than just a sporting opportunity. It was also a wonderful social occasion. The women would make afternoon tea and the men brought a dozen bottles of beer. Soon competitions were held with Bowen, Mackay and Collinsville.
Moving along …

After World War 2, moves were made towards securing the club’s own land but finances and suitable land were stalling points until 1948 when it was decided to renegotiate with Mr Gordon Edwards for the land now owned by the club. Mr Tom Foxlee also agreed to sell the club 10 acres bringing the total area for the course to 42 acres.

Thanks to volunteers with tractors, ploughs and graders, the hard work of clearing and burning gums, ti-trees and other scrub, especially on weekends, was accomplished. Next there was a course to be planned. This was drafted out by Frank Wilson, Joe Carter, Alan Spence, John McLellan and Lyall Jones. And then a “new” clubhouse was necessary as the one at the showgrounds had served its purpose. Mr W Greenwood’s old home, said to have been built around the 1890s, was purchased and its removal and reconstruction were supervised by Mr Dick Oakhill.

About 350 people attended the official opening in May 1952 which was performed by Mr Lloyd Roberts, Member for Whitsunday. When Club Patron, Mr Charlie Faust, drove off the first ball from No 1 Tee to the accompaniment of loud applause, the men and associates did a crocodile dance with Arthur Neill on the bagpipes. The band rendered lively music and celebrations continued well into midnight.
Fast Forward to 2025 …

From an impromptu rest under a tree, with a hasty swig from a water bottle, members can now revive their flagging spirits with a cool drink and a comfortable rest in a spacious, air-conditioned clubhouse after playing on the rolling greens of what is now (since 1971) an 18 hole course.

Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum

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Receives Support From Willcox

Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, announced this week that an elected Dutton Liberal National Government will provide $20,000 to support the Proserpine Youth Space.

“The Proserpine community is growing in population and therefore growing in the number of youths that require support,” Mr Willcox said.

“Youth Space is a non-government organisation offering the support and guidance for 8 to 21 year olds. It provides our young people with a safe and comfortable environment to socialise and interact with their friends, as well as with staff and volunteers.

“With the increase in crime and decrease in social development amongst youths, programs that create resilience and provide guidance, are imperative.

“Youth Space does exactly that, by creating a foundation to reduce anti-social behaviour and help set our youth on the right path for their future and the betterment of the community.

“The LNP knows how important it is to fund grass roots programs within small communities, which is why I’m proud to commit funding to this vital program if a Dutton-led Liberal National Government is elected.”

Renee Buckley from the Proserpine Youth Space Coordinator said, “We receive referrals from Queensland Police of young youths who are going off the track in life, and we try to support them the best way we can with our Anger and Anxiety Youth Program.

“This funding commitment will mean we will be able to continue to run this program with martial arts, fitness, and art therapy with the aim to help teenagers develop resilience and channel any anger into other positive activities.”

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Willcox pledges $20,000 to support the Proserpine Youth Space if LNP Government elected. Photo supplied

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Willcox Drives Funding For The Bruce

I was excited when Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, announced in January that the Labor government would fund $7.2 billion towards the Bruce Highway. However, the celebrations for Dawson were short lived, when it was discovered not a cent had been allocated for the region until at least 2028.

Senate estimates revealed that of the announced funding only $432 million had been costed over the next three years and that money is not making it to Dawson.

This figure is lower again than the $488 million Labor removed from the 2024 budget, set aside by the previous Coalition government. In January the Coalition without hesitation matched the $7.2 billion announced, and it now appears only a change of government will deliver any of these funds for North Queensland in the near future.

Under Labor this important corridor that stretches right through Dawson has gone backwards. Labor’s flashy billion dollar announcements are worthless. The money is not allocated, certainly not for North Queensland, and under Labor our region won’t have access to these funds until at least 2028.

Coalition governments have a record of providing the funds and delivering on necessary improvements to the Bruce Highway.

The last time the Federal Coalition were in government, funded and executed projects in Dawson included; the Mackay Ring Road, flood mitigation works, safety improvements with more overtaking lanes and widened sections right along the Bruce. Labor stopped the momentum of these projects, a trend I am passionate about reversing.

If elected, a Dutton/Littleproud government will fully restore the 80:20 funding split for the Bruce Highway. Meaning the federal government takes a greater funding responsibility, picking up 80% of the tab, while the State Government is left to pick up a more manageable 20%.

In 2023, the Albanese government downgraded the Federal contribution to 50%. When the federal government share is less, it puts a higher burden on the State Government to finance projects, which in turn means there is less money flowing to projects the State Government are trying to achieve.

Labor’s promises are just sexy sound bites to win votes. The Bruce, especially in regional Queensland, is just not a priority for Labor.

North Queensland needs a government to get on with the job. Road users of Dawson need the money delivered now, not just flashed around as a maybe, sometime, never.

If the Coalition wins the upcoming federal election on May 3rd, a Coalition government will also be aided by having a strong ally in the recently elected Crisafulli LNP State Government.

Together, with a LNP State Government that also values a better Bruce Highway, North Queenslanders will see a new era of positive cross government collaboration with the right and fair funding model to back our Bruce.

To join me in ‘Backing Our Bruce” sign my petition to get the wheels in motion. www.andrewwillcox.com.au/back-our-bruce

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Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox says funding is vital to fix the Bruce Highway. Photo supplied

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Funding Available For Residents

Whitsunday Regional Council has secured State Government Funding to support residents impacted by flying-fox roosts.

Residents impacted by flying-fox roosts in Collinsville can now access resident assistance grants for lifestyle mitigations to provide practical solutions that help offset impacts of flying-fox roost noise, odour and property damage.

Council secured a $46,000 State Government grant and is also contributing $20,000 to assist residents directly impacted by flying-fox roosts in urban areas.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the initiative responds to community concerns and ensures support for those most impacted.

“This funding allows residents to implement lifestyle mitigations that make a real difference,” Mayor Collins said.

“Eligible residents can claim up to 75% of costs, up to $3,000, to offset the challenges posed by flying fox roosts.”

Council has trialled intervention measures since 2021 with mixed success. While high-intensity methods have had limited results, this funding offers an alternative approach without restricting future options.

During the Flying-fox Policy and Plan consultation undertaken in July 2024, a subsidy was suggested by the community as one of the management options that could help affected residents.

Councillor Michelle Wright reaffirmed Council’s commitment to ongoing support for affected residents.

“This funding is just one of several tools available, and Council remains open to future interventions where appropriate,” Cr Wright said.

“We recognise the challenges faced by impacted residents and will continue to explore solutions that balance conservation with community wellbeing.”

Residents with flying-foxes on their property will be prioritised, however, residents within 100 metres of a roost can apply, with case-by-case assessments available for others significantly impacted.

Fact sheets and application forms are available via Council’s Online Engagement Portal, Your Say Whitsunday, or at a Customer Service Centre.

Funding is open until February 2026 or until fully allocated. For more information and to apply, visit yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au or contact Council’s Customer Service team on 1300 972 753.

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Residents that live within 100 metres of a flying fox roost can now access up to $3000 funding to help mitigate impacts. Photo: stock image, illustration only

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As the Proserpine Golf Club prepares to celebrate its Centenary on the first weekend of May, the excitement among members and locals is palpable. Whilst the club's genesis dates back to 1925, this landmark occasion is just as much about honouring its strong and thriving present as it is about reflecting on its rich and vibrant past.

With a steadily growing membership of between 350 and 380 individuals, the club is a predominant hub for sport, social connection, and personal growth in the Proserpine community. Whether you are a seasoned veteran of the golf course or a starry-eyed novice, learning how to hold and swing your first golf club, the club prides itself on its welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.

As Golf Professional Roger Vandenberg explains, “The handicap system means anyone can play and be competitive, regardless of their ability.” The recent increase in the maximum handicap for women from 36 to 54 is one of many steps the club has taken to make the sport more inclusive and accessible.

Today, Proserpine Golf Club proudly possesses an 18-hole championship course, complete with beautifully picturesque surroundings of crystalline creeks, rolling cane fields and majestic gum trees.

Due to its modernised irrigation system, the course remains in excellent condition even through dry spells. The club also boasts a practice fairway, putting green, practice nets, and a cutting edge TrackMan training facility where golfers of all levels can fine-tune their swing by utilising state of the art professional grade technology.

Roger, who has had the pleasure of serving as the club's professional for almost a decade, offers everything from individual private lessons to group clinics, including groups for ladies and juniors. He also provides club fitting and equipment repair services. Roger is supported by his associate and aspiring professional golfer, Nathan. Their presence at Proserpine Golf Club has contributed significantly to its growth and sharp improvement in competition standards.

Off the golf course, the on-site Clubhouse provides an energetic social venue, hosting everything from birthdays to weddings, wakes and post-round catch-ups. Recent renovations, including new furniture and abundant parking spaces, have made the golf club even more inviting.

As the centenary edges ever closer, the club takes time to highlight the efforts of its many volunteers, sponsors and long-serving families whose stalwart dedication has helped shape its success. Their work has laid the foundation for what promises to be a memorable centennial celebration and exciting future.

From its friendly atmosphere to its first-class facilities, Proserpine Golf Club stands as a shining beacon of what a community-driven sporting club can become and after a century, the only direction is upwards.

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Roger Vandenberg Head Professional, Photo Credit: Munir Kilic

Roger Vandenberg Head Professional and Nathan Sothmann PGA Associate, Photo Credit: Munir Kilic

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Done N Dusted Country, located conveniently on Proserpine’s Main Street, has swiftly become a beloved shopping destination since opening for business in October 2023. Owned and operated by Amber Duggan, a Proserpine local since 2005 and a mother of three, this charming country store provides local residents with a convenient, community focused retail experience.

Done N Dusted Country offers a diverse range of country clothing, footwear and accessories, catering specifically to the tastes and needs of Proserpine's residents and for surrounding communities throughout the Whitsundays and beyond.

Amber's commitment to the provision of local shopping emphasises her love for strengthening the local economy and supporting Proserpine's close-knit community. Customers seeking specific brands or unique country styles can handily place special orders directly with the store, adding a personalised touch to their country shopping experience. Done N Dusted Country shares the same building with Hunting and Shooting Supplies Whitsunday, owned and operated by Amber’s husband, Martin Duggan who is an equally passionate champion of the local community.

“There’s not really any country oriented shops in this town, so we wanted to do something unique with this store to service the needs of the locals and surrounding regions” said Mr Duggan.

Beyond retail, Amber and Martin’s authentic enthusiasm for uplifting their community is exemplified in their support of young local rodeo riders. Done N Dusted Country actively provides sponsorship opportunities to these young cowboys, offering them free clothing and discounted items from various brands. The couple enjoy helping them compete in rodeos and promoting rural tourism in the process and displaying the best of Proserpine's talent and country charm. This approach has made the store an integral element of the community, enriching the Proserpine experience for residents and visitors alike.

Done N Dusted Country is more than just a store, it's a celebration of rural life, community spirit and local pride. Whether you are visiting from out of town or you are a Proserpine local, make sure you stop by Done N Dusted Country on your next trip to Main Street and experience firsthand what Amber and Martin Duggan have to offer.

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With Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce President Allan Milostic

What's your number one election priority?

Recently the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry acknowledged the federal government’s pre-election budget. Whilst the investment in infrastructure, cost of living, and tax relief is welcome, the budget ultimately signals a future of debt and deficit and falls short in delivering targeted support for small businesses.

The budget aims to ‘shape a more affordable Australia’ but what does that look like, what are the knock-on effects for our region’s economy?

The Whitsunday business community looks forward to raising these questions, and more, at our Meet the Federal Election Candidates event, scheduled for 6pm Tuesday 15 April (for non-Chamber members, Mackay and Whitsunday Life will live stream aspects of the event via their Facebook page).

We have asked the Whitsunday business community to share their number one priority for this year’s federal election. The major issues include:

· Improve Whitsunday road infrastructure and the Bruce Highway.

· Business insurance accessibility and affordability for North Queensland.

· Critical public transportation issues which are impacting people's ability to gain employment in our region.

· How to ensure a vibrant rural sector so region’s businesses are also vibrant.

· Government spending and waste.

· More financial support for events and festivals that economically contribute to the region.

· Freedom of speech.

· Continuing the flow of visitors to the region during flooding events and wet season.

· Support for regional not-for-profits, such as the Proserpine Agriculture and Industry Association who utilize the Proserpine Showgrounds for annual shows.

Specifically, the Chamber is keen to hear from all the candidates what their economic vision for the Whitsundays entails, and the community initiatives they will support, and if they are willing and able to advocate local issues contrary to their party’s policy position.

We look forward to sharing highlights from our event to help everyone make their vote count!

WHAT: Meet the Federal Election Candidates (Members only event)
WHEN: 6pm Tuesday 15 April
WHERE: Club Croc

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You’ve likely seen Tourism Whitsundays around town or mentioned in the news - but what exactly do we do, and how can local tourism operators benefit?

We’re a not-for-profit marketing organisation dedicated to promoting our beautiful region, supporting tourism product development, and delivering visitor services. Our core focus is to increase visitation, extend the length of stay, and encourage dispersal across Airlie Beach, Bowen, Collinsville, Proserpine, and the Islands - ultimately driving more visitor spend into the region.

Funded by Tourism and Events Queensland and Whitsunday Regional Council, we deliver strategic marketing campaigns that showcase the Whitsundays to the world. From managing destination social media and securing media features to working with influencers and travel agents, everything we do is about putting the region front and centre in people’s travel plans.

Tourism operators and businesses can invest in a membership with us, gaining opportunities to be featured in marketing activity, attend trade events, and access valuable tools, including industry insights, training, and networking. Eligible members also receive discounted membership with the Queensland Tourism Industry Council, Queensland’s peak industry body.

Whether you’re a long-time operator or new to the tourism space, we’d love for you to learn more about how Tourism Whitsundays can support you and help grow your business.

To find out more about membership or how we can work together, get in touch with the team today at membership@tourismwhitsundays.com.au

Contributed by Tourism Whitsundays

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I’m excited that the Whitsundays will be hosting the Queensland Tourism Industry Council’s 2025 World Environment Day event right here at Council’s beautiful Shute Harbour Marine Terminal.

With the breathtaking Whitsundays as our backdrop, the Heart of the Great Barrier Reef and future home of Olympic sailing for the Brisbane 2032 Games there’s no better place to talk about the future of sustainable tourism and environmental leadership.

On June 5, we’ll welcome tourism leaders, eco-innovators, and decision-makers from across Queensland to explore how we can continue to grow our industry while protecting the natural environment that makes our region so special.

This event is not only a celebration of progress, it’s an important moment to reflect on the role local governments play in protecting the places we call home.

Reef councils, including Whitsunday Regional Council, are the single largest contributor to Great Barrier Reef conservation investing more than $228 million each year in direct environmental activities.

That’s an extraordinary commitment at the local level but it’s one we take seriously. Queensland is the most biologically diverse state in Australia, and it’s our job to protect the iconic species and landscapes we’re so lucky to live alongside.

Through initiatives like Council’s Healthy Heart Project, we’ve helped tourism operators better understand their carbon footprints and act on sustainability.

We’ve also celebrated the launch of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) at Whitsunday Coast Airport, a major milestone, and a perfect example of innovation in action.

But we want to do more. Reef councils are ready to consolidate and accelerate the progress we’ve made, with the right support.

That’s why we’re calling on state and federal governments to continue backing locally-led environmental solutions, and to recognise the critical role councils play in protecting our natural assets, not just for today, but for generations to come.

World Environment Day is a chance to come together, share what’s working, and plan for what’s next. I’m excited for the conversations ahead and even more excited about what we can achieve, together, right here in the Whitsundays.

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Eco Barge’s Circular Economy Art Project Unveiled At Whitsunday Coast Airport

Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc. is proud to announce the unveiling of the Waves of Change community art project at the Whitsunday Coast Airport. This stunning artwork, crafted from a small portion of the 252,331 bottle top lids collected during marine debris clean-ups in 2024, is a powerful symbol of the urgent need to transition from a take-make-waste model to a sustainable circular economy.

The Waves of Change project was made possible, in part, with grant funding from the Queensland Circular Economy (Industry-Research) Program, an initiative of the Queensland Government, delivered by the Resources Centre of Excellence. Eco Barge was selected as one of six successful applicants, demonstrating our commitment to industry-led innovation that drives environmental sustainability.

In 2024 alone, Eco Barge volunteers collected and removed 6,705 kilograms of marine debris from the Whitsunday Islands. With support from Endeavour Group and the dedication of Eco Barge’s volunteers, who spent their Saturdays creating the piece, the recovered plastic bottle tops were transformed into a powerful artwork. The project was part of the weekly Art Wave sessions run by Eco Barge volunteer Ruth Puddefoot, and aims to highlight the impact of plastic pollution on our marine environment.

To celebrate this community-driven initiative, a special competition is underway at the Whitsunday Coast Airport! Visitors are invited to guess the total number of bottle top lids used in the Waves of Change artwork, with the lucky winner receiving an unforgettable family trip to the Great Barrier Reef, generously sponsored by Cruise Whitsundays.

“This project is a powerful reminder that every single person plays a role in protecting our oceans. If we dispose of litter responsibly on land, we prevent it from becoming marine debris that threatens our beautiful islands and marine life here in the Whitsundays,” said Libby Edge, Founder of Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc.

Whitsunday Coast Airport Director Craig Turner said “Waves of Change” is more than just a beautiful installation – it’s a visual statement about our community’s commitment to sustainability.

“We're proud to host this powerful piece at the airport, where it will inspire both locals and visitors the moment they arrive in the Whitsundays.

“This collaboration with Eco Barge highlights the impact we can make when passionate people, local organisations, and industry work together.

“The airport is the gateway to the Whitsundays, and we’re honoured to help share the message of circular economy and marine protection with the world.

Eco Barge would like to thank their volunteers, Endeavour Group, Whitsunday Council and Cruise Whitsundays for their invaluable support in bringing Waves of Change to life.

For more information on Eco Barge’s ongoing marine conservation efforts or to enter the Waves for Change contest, visit www.ecobargecleanseas.org.au/circularity

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Endeavour Group who sorted the bottle top lids into colours with Founder of Eco Barge Libby Edge and Volunteer Kelly Cronin.

Founder of Eco Barge, Libby Edge, Ruth Puddefoot and Kelly Cronin.

Airport Staff, Endeavour Group, Eco Barge Volunteers and Founder of Eco Barge Libby Edge.

Ruth Puddefoot who coordinated the Saturday art project.

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At the recent Futurist State of the Region event hosted by the Whitsundays Regional Council, key leaders and forward-thinking businesses gathered to discuss the exciting future of the region. The event’s presentation featured speeches by Mayor Ry Collins, Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP, and an amazing guest keynote speaker, Anders Sörman-Nilsson, a global futurist and innovation strategist.

Mayor Collins’ speech reflected the past and future of the Whitsundays; highlighted the region’s rapid growth, particularly in Airlie Beach and Cannonvale, which is now one of the fastest-growing areas in regional Queensland. With the largest population increase, along with booming tourism, the region is on a clear path to prosperity.

Mayor Collins distinctly pointed out that 1 in 4 workers employed in the tourism sector demonstrated the region’s appeal to both national and international travellers. The Whitsundays infrastructure is being developed to meet this growing demand especially in short-term accommodation, a housing sector that has boomed post-Cyclone Debbie. Mayor Collins also emphasised that the council and region is extremely excited as a whole with the recent announcement about the hosting opportunity of the upcoming 2032 Olympic Games.

Amanda Camm was the next to speak and focused on tangible improvements for Queenslanders, including a local committee to address the much-needed upgrades to the Bruce Highway and making sure the upgrades go where they are needed most. Amanda also championed grassroots funding for young athletes and emphasised the region’s commitment to ecotourism, educational growth, and housing development to keep pace with the current tourism expansion and demands.

The morning wrapped up with guest keynote speaker Anders Sörman-Nilsson, who provided a thought-provoking look at the future of business, urging local companies to embrace emerging technologies like AI and robotics. He painted an intriguing picture where mundane tasks are automated, freeing human minds to pursue more creative and fulfilling endeavours. Ander’s insights were a reminder that science fiction is rapidly becoming science fact, and the future of work will be shaped by how we adapt to these innovations. Especially directing his points to small businesses who need to think smarter and embrace the opportunities rising technologies can afford them.

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Photo credit: Victoria Velton.

Anders Sörman-Nilsson and Mayor Ry Collins

Mayor Ry Collins, Amanda Camm MP and Craig Turner

Anders Sörman-Nilsson delivering his speech

Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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