Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
With 26 years of experience and a results-driven reputation, Stacey Arlott has firmly established herself as one of Queensland’s most accomplished real estate professionals. She is widely recognised, receiving great industry acclaim, but prides herself most on the trust she has garnered from the community she serves in Mackay. In 2021 Stacey reached a huge milestone in her career, being declared the number one agent in Australia by Real Estate Business’s dealmaker ranking - the first in Mackay to receive such an accolade. The win occurred during a volatile time for the market, with COVID-19 challenges failing to knock Stacey off-course. What sets Stacey apart is not only her consistent sales performance, but also her disciplined work ethic and ability to foster long-term client relationships. Her career is marked by a series of accolades, including the REMAX Lifetime Achievement Award (2024) and induction into the REMAX Hall of Fame (2020). From 2022 to 2025, she has consistently ranked among the Top 10 agents in Queensland and Top 20 nationally - an indication of her ongoing push for excellence in a dynamic and demanding market. Beyond industry recognition, Stacy’s success is strongly validated by client feedback. She has earned multiple “Agent of the Year” titles through RateMyAgent, including four consecutive wins for East Mackay (2021–2024) and the broader Mackay region in 2023. These consistently high ratings across major platforms reflect a reputation built on transparency, communication, and results. Having previously owned and operated her own agency and served as REIQ Zone Chairperson, Stacey does more than transactional sales. She brings a comprehensive understanding of the real estate landscape, from regulatory frameworks to market strategy; a depth of knowledge that allows her to guide clients with confidence through every stage of the buying and selling process. Known for her approachable style, Stacey’s secret to success is communication. She prioritises keeping clients informed to ensure they feel supported throughout their property journey. Her business is driven by referrals and repeat clients, a testament to the trust she builds and the outcomes she delivers. remax.com.au/select/stacey-arlott CAPTION: Stacey Arlott, Property Consultant at RE/MAX Select Mackay. Photo source: RE/MAX Select Mackay
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I was among the Mackay real estate agents who received calls from buyers agents from southern capitals last week saying they had investors who were more interested than ever in securing a property in this town. That is not to say that investors around the country are not spooked and considering their options after the Federal Budget announcement that negative gearing would no longer be available for new investments other than brand new builds. There will be plenty who will be watching the impact of the removal of negative gearing and it remains to be seen what happens with property prices both in Mackay and in the nation generally. Someone told me the other day that they didn’t understand exactly what negative gearing is, which is fair enough because not everyone lives in my world of property prices, rental yields, capital gains and tax benefits. So for those who are unsure, the basic meaning of negative gearing is that an investor can claim the losses they make on a property on their personal tax. So if an investor has a property that gives them a rental return after costs of $600 a week but their mortgage is $800 a week, they are able to claim the $200 a week loss as a reduction from their personal tax payments. A lot of people are suggesting that the removal of negative gearing will have the biggest impact in Sydney because the cost of housing is high and rentals do not typically cover the mortgage if someone had a 20 per cent deposit on the property they had bought. The rent on a $2m Sydney property does not go anywhere near covering the mortgage so being able to claim the loss as a reduction on your PAYE tax is the only way most investors can do it. Investors who had an investment property prior to this month’s Federal Budget will be able to continue to negatively gear their property but anyone who buys after Budget night will not be able to unless they are building a new home. The impact in Sydney was immediate, with an auction clearance rate of under 50 per cent last weekend. Sydney is an auction town so the results send a clear message that investors there are spooked and possibly no longer see the value in buying an investment property at current prices and with current rental returns. The impact on prices in Sydney, and around the country, will be the big real estate story this year. As I said in my column last week, there is a theory – completely untested and not to be taken as gospel until the facts emerge – that the removal of negative gearing will not have a huge impact in Mackay because house prices are lower than in southern capitals and rental yields are much better. Investors with a decent deposit on a property don’t need negative gearing because rental returns cover the mortgage; so their properties are actually positively geared. Will this make Mackay an attractive place for southern investors looking for an investment that doesn’t run at a loss? We’ll have to wait and see. It is interesting to note what has happened to real estate prices in New Zealand in the years since the government there made changes to negative gearing; prices have dropped by 30 per cent (adjusted to inflation) since their peak about five years ago. Other factors play into that: there has been a reduction in immigration and Kiwis prefer to live in Australia than in New Zealand (only joking!) but there is no doubt that the removal of negative gearing has had an impact. With fewer investment properties coming onto Australian markets, we can expect to see fewer rental properties which, in a world of demand and supply, could push rental prices up. And young people looking for an investment will not be able to claim the negative gearing that older Australians could access. It’s a nuanced world.
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@Pilates 24/7 Mackay is a boutique reformer Pilates studio built around flexibility, recovery and real life. As Mackay’s first 24/7 Pilates studio, members can train any time, with no timetables. The studio runs on a hybrid model combining on demand classes with in studio support during staffed hours. Using noise cancelling headphones, members follow sessions from a platform offering more than 500 classes, choosing their own pace, level and style. Programs cater to all levels, including pregnancy and post-natal, with a focus on strength, mobility and safe progression. Memberships include reformer Pilates, infrared sauna and red-light therapy, creating a complete wellness experience in one space. New clients can get started with our '10 days for $45' intro offer, with memberships starting from only $39 per week. With premium reformers and full flexibility, @Pilates 24/7 Mackay makes consistency simple. You lead. Our platform follows. Only @pilates
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Dr Maddilyn Brown is the passionate Owner and Founder of The Nurture Haus, where she specialises as an Advanced Paediatric Chiropractor dedicated to supporting women, babies and children through every stage of life. A proud Mackay local, Maddilyn completed both school and university in the region before spending several years living and working in Brisbane, Dysart and Emerald, eventually making her way home after seven years away. Her journey into chiropractic began following a gymnastics injury as a teenager, sparking a passion that would shape her entire career. Since then, Maddilyn has devoted herself to extensive postgraduate study in paediatrics, pregnancy, postpartum care and women’s health, completing a postgraduate diplomat in 2025 while continuing further study in women’s health. Since 2023, she has worked exclusively with women and children. Outside of work, Maddilyn describes herself as “animated, nerdy and unflappable”. When she’s not studying or caring for patients, she enjoys weightlifting, walking her beloved American Staffy x French Mastiff, Askari, and spending time with her partner Josh after recently ending two years of long distance. An ex-gymnast with an adventurous streak, Maddilyn also once flew planes before relocating to Central Queensland and enjoys aerial silks in her spare time. Her happiest life moment? Witnessing the Northern Lights in Alaska — a lifelong bucket-list dream she says was the most remarkable thing she has ever seen. CAPTION: Dr Maddilyn Brown has dedicated her career to paediatric and women’s health chiropractic care, supporting Mackay families through The Nurture Haus. Photo supplied
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In 2017, Cyclone Debbie struck Airlie Beach. In the eye of the storm, Trevor Rees made his way down to the marina to check on the Whitsunday Escape fleet before the wind started roaring again.
There was no phone reception, no radios that could call for back-up. But, as he began checking for damage and securing any untied boats, Trevor was quickly joined by five staff members.
It was a moment that showed Trevor his team had his back, without him even having to ask.
When he looked back at the carpark, the only cars at the marina belonged to Whitsunday Escape employees.
That memory gives him goosebumps to this day.
It’s testimony to the spirit that holds Whitsunday Escape’s tight-knit team together. It’s what makes them a family. The way they turn up for one another, and genuinely care.
The crew are united by their passion for the Whitsundays, and it’s this love that drives the business.
Service starts with the reservations team; the friendly voices on the phone and the warm smiles at check-in. With a wealth of local area knowledge, the team make planning easy, matching visitors with their perfect bareboat holiday.
The dock team are next on hand, assisting guests from the start to finish of their time on the boat, giving them all the insider information needed to make them confident and ready to sail.
The detailing team are the silent heroes – the ones customers rarely get to meet. They work diligently behind the scenes and have a genuine love for making each boat sparkle.
Senior management steers the ship, providing daily customer and staff support.
It’s a well-oiled machine, built on support, respect, and a drive to create meaningful lasting memories, that will continue to thrive in this next stage of the business under the confident leadership of General Manager Jaclyn Watson.
1- The close-knit team at Whitsunday Escape. Photo supplied
Growing up in Cape Town, South Africa, Trevor Rees never dreamt that one day he would co-own one of one of the most globally successful bareboat charter businesses, thousands of miles away, in Australia's Airlie Beach.
Escaping the harsh realities of a country divided by apartheid, Trevor's family initially set sail for the Caribbean where his journey into the realm of charter boats and brokering began.
Inspired by legendary maritime adventurers like Sir Francis Chichester, it was also around this time that Trevor's personal plan to sail the seven seas was hatched.
In 1985, together with his new wife, Katie, and aboard their newly acquired 36-ft ketch, a voyage into the South Pacific commenced.
Having discovered that Katie was pregnant along the way, the couple never made it to a safe harbour to give birth.
Baby Justin Rees was delivered at sea, somewhere between French Polynesia and American Samoa, five weeks prematurely, at 3am, in near-storm conditions while the wind was blowing 35 knots.
"I cut the umbilical cord with a pair of scissors and when it was all over, I recorded the latitude and longitude and we all just fell asleep," Trevor said.
"Technically one of us should have been on watch but I figured what were the chances of being run over by a cargo ship and having a baby at sea all on the same night!"
Waking up the next morning as a family of three was the dawn of a new era, culminating in the completion of a two-and-a-half-year voyage to Australia, birth of a second son, and start of a new life in the nautical hub of Airlie Beach.
In this gateway to the iconic Whitsunday Islands, a fledgling charter industry was starting to bloom, within which Trevor's skills were perfectly placed.
From humble beginnings at the bareboat business, Whitsunday Escape, Trevor went on to become a managing director, steering this proverbial ship to regional, state and national acclaim, across a tenure lasting over 25 years.
Known for being a staunch environmental defender, Trevor also used his knowledge and growing influence to push for legislative reform in the fields of eco-tourism, reef protection and climate change.
In addition to playing pivotal roles on a number of tourism advisory and conservation committees, he was one of the key figures behind a successful campaign to ban capital dredging on the Great Barrier Reef.
While still actively championing causes close to his heart, the time has now come for Trevor to step back from his beloved business and hit the high seas once again, this time aboard his aptly named catamaran, Escape Artist.
Although there are no aspirations to finish a global circumnavigation back to South Africa, Trevor, his second wife Julie and their little dog Scrat plan to cruise to Tasmania, while still maintaining a foothold in the Whitsundays, where Trevor emphatically says: “we’ll be back”.
To hear more of Trevor’s incredible story, visit the Whitsunday People Podcast on YouTube or Spotify.
1 – Trevor Rees, Managing Director of Whitsunday Escape, sailing into retirement. Photo supplied
Fond farewell for Whitsunday Escape Director Trevor Rees at Qantas Australian Tourism Awards
When Trevor Rees first took the helm at a small, rental boat business in Airlie Beach, little did he know he’d be walking into retirement some 25 years later, having transformed ‘Whitsunday Escape’ into one of Australia’s premier unique accommodation providers.
Making it to the finals in this category at the 2025 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards in Fremantle on Saturday night, Mr Rees was understandably emotional.
“Standing on this platform at the end of my working life, I feel incredibly honoured to have helped introduce an entire generation of travellers to the magic of a truly extraordinary accommodation and boating experience, blending transport, immersion in nature, escapism, maritime lifestyle and the amenities of home, in a destination as globally iconic as The Whitsundays,” he said.
Originally offering houseboat and monohull yacht hire, it was under Mr Rees’ captaincy that Whitsunday Escape evolved into a multi-award-winning, modern fleet of 38 luxury catamarans – both sail and power – comprising the largest ‘bareboat’ operation in the Southern Hemisphere.
Far from being bare, each vessel is fully equipped for total comfort on the water, the term ‘bareboat’ referring simply to the self-skippered aspect.
Whitsunday Escape General Manager, Jaclyn Watson, said it was the company’s extensive briefing and support systems that gave charterers the chance to explore the World-Heritage-Listed Whitsunday Islands and Great Barrier Reef Marine Park at their own pace, without the need for a captain or crew.
“Whether an experienced sailor or simply a boating enthusiast, we ensure all our guests are fully prepared before heading out, knowing that every challenge brings increased confidence, and every sunset feels earned,” she said.
“It’s a unique blend of adventure, self-reliance, natural beauty and pure freedom, where your vessel becomes both your home and transport, where no two days are the same, and where unlike traditional tours or cruises, you’re in control yet fully supported and far from alone.”
Mr Rees said notwithstanding his team’s dedication, operational excellence and belief in an outstanding product, competition for the title of Australia’s best unique accommodation provider was always tough, and he commended all of the winners and finalists from Saturday’s awards.
“Over the past 25 years it has been a privilege to represent Whitsunday Escape, the marine tourism industry, and The Whitsundays, at many local, state and national awards, where I have always been in exceptional company,” he said.
“However, these accolades never belong to just one person, and it really does take a village.
“Special mention must go to my fellow directors, our boat investors, our loyal customers – many of whom return year after year – our wonderful suppliers and our incredible staff, who are the backbone of Whitsunday Escape, the embodiment of our long-term vision and the sheer hard work behind our high standards and innovation.
“Being a nationally recognised industry leader also comes with responsibility for promoting our region, and as I now pass the baton to our GM, Jaclyn, it is Whitsunday Escape’s ongoing mission to help position The Whitsundays as Australia’s leading sailing destination to the 2032 Olympics and beyond.”
Mr Rees will now sail into the sunset with his wife Julie on their own boat ‘Escape Artist’, with Ms Watson to take the reins from the new financial year.
For more information visit www.whitsundayescape.com.
1- Cody & Jaclyn Watson, Rhys Bradford, Dan & Loraine Tannock, Julie Sladek & Trevor Rees. Photo supplied
On Monday 9th March, the Proserpine Library hosted its first writer’s circle with the aim of bringing enthusiastic writers and book lovers together to discuss and collaborate on ideas in special creative workshops.
The first session centred around narrative and the construction of plot. Future sessions will delve into character and worldbuilding, researching for stories and refining drafts. The Proserpine Library is hosting three more sessions on each Monday of the consecutive week. To book, you can call 4945 0275.
The sessions are run by Jayde Gardner. With a Bachelor of Multimedia Journalism, Jayde has spent the last decade working in media and communications for local and state government and now brings her wealth of knowledge and expertise to creative writing.
Having recently returned to the Whitsundays after spending twelve years in Townsville – Jayde is looking to encourage more people to write and foster storytelling as an important skill.
The Writer’s Circle is a fantastic opportunity to bring together like minded individuals and allow creativity to flourish. By expressing interest in these types of community initiatives, the region can continue to foster enthusiasm for the creative arts.
Perhaps there’s a story you desperately want to tell, a song you think you can write, or an artwork you know you can create.
Photo credit:
The new Writer’s Circle at the Proserpine Library is bringing local creatives together to share ideas and develop storytelling skills. Sebastian Conidi
St Paul’s Anglican Church, Proserpine, will be holding it’s incredibly popular annual Giant Cent Sale at Proserpine Show Pavillion on Saturday 14th March. Doors will open at 11am for a 12.30pm start.
Entry requires a gold coin donation that foes towards the lucky door prize, raffles and delicious Devonshire tea. There is a chance to win a variety of exciting surprises. With the support of generous donations from the public and local businesses – there will be prizes for every taste, both young and old. These include groceries, toys, garden supplies, cosmetics and gift vouchers to merely name a few.
The money raised will also go towards the maintenance of Proserpine Anglican Church – a Proserpine Landmark!!
The event has seen great success in the past as people have gathered for a day of family fun. It is a community event, and it needs your support so get on down.
WHAT: Giant Cent Sale
WHERE: St Paul’s Anglican Church, Proserpine
WHEN: Saturday 14th March, doors open at 11am for 12.30pm start
CAPTION: Residents are encouraged to attend a Giant Cent Sale at St Paul’s Anglican Church this Saturday. Photo supplied
When little hands prepare to grow,
And off to Prep they're set to go,
A journey shaped by truth and grace—
At Whitsunday Christian College, a special place.
With caring hearts and gentle pace,
Each child is welcomed into place.
They learn through play, explore with glee,
Becoming all they’re meant to be.
Miss Elmarie, who leads with light,
Has shared their steps with pure delight.
“For 26 years I’ve watched them rise—
To read, to write—it's no surprise!”
Each Thursday in Term Two, don’t delay,
Join ‘Get Ready for Prep’ play.
From 9 to 10:30, skills shine through—
With play-based fun in all we do.
In Term Four, they start to explore,
With transition mornings and so much more.
They meet their teachers, make new friends—
So come Day One, the joy begins.
At our college we aim to grow
Young hearts who learn and truly know
They’re shaped by God, with purpose grand—
To face the world with faith in hand.
Book your tour, come take a peek—
Call 4948 5100 this week!
Or email us to find your way:
mail@whitsunday.qld.edu.au today.
Come along Saturday, March 28,
For a Prep Tour and Info Session—save the date!
See our spaces, meet the crew
Discover if WCC Prep’s right for you!
Save the Date boxes
Prep 2027 Information Tour – 28 March, 9am
Get Ready for Prep – Thursdays commencing 30 April
The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry has announced key leadership appointments as the organisation enters a new phase of growth and delivery for the region’s business community.
Dr Julia Evans has been appointed Executive Officer, responsible for leading Chamber operations and supporting the delivery of its strategic priorities.
Cait Fleming has stepped into the role of Portfolio Manager, overseeing Weddings Whitsundays and the Cruise Ship Markets, with additional initiatives currently in development.
The Chamber also continues to receive specialist government and business advocacy advice from former Federal Member of Parliament Richard Evans.
Chamber President Allan Milostic said the appointments reflect the Chamber’s strong momentum and expanding role across the region.
“The Chamber is firmly on a growth trajectory,” Mr Milostic said. “Our Board has endorsed a Strategic Plan featuring 42 priority actions to be delivered by the end of 2026, focused on strengthening advocacy, expanding member services, delivering impactful education and events, improving communications, and enhancing operational capability.”
“These appointments ensure we have the leadership and operational capacity needed to deliver meaningful outcomes for our members and the wider business community.”
Express Your Interest
As part of this growth, the Chamber is now inviting Expressions of Interest from contractors to assist with the delivery of its expanding programs, events, and member engagement initiatives.
This flexible opportunity is suited to a highly organised and proactive individual who enjoys working across multiple projects, managing communications, digital platforms, and stakeholder relationships.
Working alongside the Chamber’s operations team, the successful contractor will support the activities of the organisation while contributing to key areas including membership engagement, communications, events, and major initiatives. The work spans operations, digital coordination, communications, and stakeholder engagement, making it well suited to someone who values variety, autonomy, and meaningful involvement in the local business community.
The engagement is proposed from April to 31 December 2026, for up to 15 hours per week with flexible scheduling.
Through this opportunity, the successful contractor will be supporting an organisation representing more than 260 businesses across the Whitsundays, contributing to advocacy, events, and programs that strengthen the region’s business community.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who enjoys working across a variety of projects and being part of an organisation that is actively shaping the future of the Whitsundays business community,” Mr Milostic said.
Expressions of Interest are now open via the Chamber website and close 11:59pm Sunday 29 March 2026: https://www.whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au/2026eoi/
Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Coexistence Queensland reminds residents, landholders and businesses across the Whitsunday region to attend their free community energy and resources forum at Proserpine Entertainment Centre on 20 March.
The Queensland Community Energy Forum will bring together community members, energy and resource developers, agriculture representatives and government for a day of presentations, question-and-answer sessions and information booths.
It’s a chance to ask questions, access clear information and engage directly with industry and government about current and future development.
Katie-Anne Mulder, Chief Executive Officer, Queensland Renewable Energy Council, said the forum supports early, open and transparent engagement between industry and community.
“The forum is about two-way communication. Energy developers will be on the ground to listen and learn from the community, while also sharing clear information about what’s happening now and what may be proposed in the future,” Ms Mulder said.
“This gives communities have the chance to ask questions and share what matters to them.
“Early and honest engagement helps shape projects that reflect local priorities and deliver stronger outcomes for the region.”
Janette Hewson, Chief Executive Officer, Queensland Resources Council, said the resources sector had a long-standing connection to the Whitsundays region.
“Whitsundays families and businesses have supported our industry for generations,” Ms Hewson said.
“Communities always want to be informed and know what developments mean for their land, their livelihoods and their future.
“Forums like this are important in shaping how development happens, in unlocking new resource opportunities and seeing more investment going back into regional communities.”
The Proserpine event follows strong community participation across five forums held in the Western Downs, Isaac, Maranoa, Flinders and Callide Dawson regions since 2024.
The Queensland Community Energy Forum is a partnership between Coexistence Queensland, the Queensland Renewable Energy Council, Queensland Resources Council, Queensland Government, and Whitsunday Regional Council.
1 - Warwick Squire, CEO, Coexistence Queensland, Stephanie McKechnie, Energy Engagement and Education Advisor, Queensland Farmers’ Federation, Cr Neville Ferrier, Mayor, Banana Shire Council, Katie-Anne Mulder, CEO, Queensland Renewable Energy Council, and Cr Shane McCarthy, General President, AgForce Queensland. Photo supplied
By Michael and Val Kimpton
For far too long our residents have been asked to travel to Mackay or Townsville to make these lifesaving contributions. It is time we advocate and make sure the Whitsunday region gets a fair go! Excessive travel distances and time away from work can become very inconvenient and presents a significant barrier for many locals who wish to donate. We want to roll up our sleeves and donate, however that becomes difficult when we are forced to choose between losing a day of travelling with our already busy timetables and family commitments.
Time is precious, and that rings true even more so in isolated regional areas. It is hard to juggle work, school, sport, family and life in general with this kind of travel requirement. From personal experience, we have donated twice in ten years in the Whitsundays, whereas we would donate regularly every three months when living in Melbourne. The decision to donate can feel as though it’s been taken from us. We should feel encouraged not discouraged.
The population of the Whitsunday Regional Council is rapidly growing, now in excess of 40,000 people, which doesn’t include functional population numbers. The demographic experts have advised that in 10 years there will be a 30% increase – a rate faster than the Queensland average.
All these statistics point to a very valid reason to reintroduce a visiting blood bank in our region. At the very least we should introduce a trial run. Even a roaming bus between Mackay and Townsville – as is already done with Breast screenings in the area – would be a good start.
With the demand for blood supply at a 12-year high, this matter is of the upmost importance. Blood donations save lives. Most recipients are cancer patients, trauma victims and patients in emergency surgery. Blood has a use by date; it cannot be stockpiled. Australian Red Cross Life Bloods are always calling for more donations. One single donation can save up to 3 lives.
It’s time to open the discussion for an initiative that can make a huge difference. Signatures on our petition is all we need to get the blood flowing and move this process into a reality.
The day led locals to express appreciation for the women in their life, and also sparked conversations surrounding vital women’s issues.
This week saw many expressing appreciation for the women making a difference in the world.
“This International Women’s Day, Whitsunday Regional Council is recognising the women across our organisation who are helping deliver important projects and services for our community,” said Whitsunday Regional Council.
“From planning and procurement, on-site project delivery and engineering, to communications, customer service, library services, environmental management, finance, and IT support - to name just a few - their work is shaping the future of the Whitsundays and supporting the region’s growth.
“Today we acknowledge the professionalism, expertise and leadership these women bring to Council and to the communities we serve.”
The day also rose awareness about issues disproportionately affecting women, and invited fundraising and support.
1, 2- The remarkable women celebrated by Whitsunday Regional Council. Photos supplied
Blurb: Heavy rain was unable to stop the Zonta Club of Whitsundays from putting on their fantastic 26th Annual International Women’s Day fundraiser luncheon. Despite the tough weather, the event took place against the backdrop of beautiful views of the Shute Harbour Marine Luncheon. It was a fantastic occasion filled with laughs, fun and community spirit.
Captions
Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi
Onlookers at Airlie Beach’s Whitsunday Sailing Club witnessed a spectacular save on Sunday when a catamaran broke free from its mooring and was pushed by rough seas straight toward the rocks, saved at the last second by the quick thinking boatie on board.
Commercial skipper Tony Ritter was watching from the Sailing Club with other parents as their children’s junior sailing session had been moved indoors.
The group was discussing the catamaran which had been slowly drifting towards the shore and was now approximately 400m from it’s original mooring, but didn’t realise anyone was on board.
The vessel’s owners were indeed away, but Whitsunday Sailing Club regular Andy had offered to check out a broken tender, so was on board at the time of the squall.
The wind swelled to 38 knots and rain began to pour, as the boat suddenly broke free.
Tony describes how Andy jumped into action, getting an engine started at the last second, steering the catamaran away from the rocks.
With just one engine kicking in, the boat swung around to settle on the pontoon where Andy could regain control, instead of hitting the concrete boat ramp. It was a gutsy move, that may well have saved the boat from wreck.
“People online are always quick to criticise. They say ‘why was it out there’, but there’s always a story,” Tony said.
“It happened so fast. Andy had 30 seconds to a minute to get the engine started and make a decision, with adrenaline pumping.
“He’s a generous, humble, quiet man, always around the yacht club, who would do anything to help anyone. He calmly stepped off the yacht afterward, like getting out of a supercar that had just rolled.”
Andy has now moved the boat to safe waters. Tony captured a video of the incident which can be viewed on his Facebook page.
facebook.com/tonezone88
CAPTION: 1- The unmoored boat, heading for the rocks as seen from the Whitsunday Sailing Club.
A critical offshore medical emergency in the Whitsundays on the afternoon of 5 March, prompted a swift and highly coordinated response from an aeromedical rescue crew, highlighting the vital role of emergency services in some of Queensland’s most remote locations.
The incident unfolded when a man aboard a cruise ship became critically unwell while the vessel was at sea and unable to access a nearby port. With time of the essence, a rescue helicopter was tasked to the scene to deliver urgent medical care.
Upon arrival, the helicopter crew conducted multiple winch operations to deploy a paramedic, doctor and aircrewman onto the deck of the ship. Once on board, the medical team immediately began stabilising the patient while the aircraft remained overhead.
To maximise the helicopter’s available flight time before refuelling became necessary, the cruise ship was manoeuvred closer toward Mackay as treatment continued on deck. This coordination allowed the rescue crew to remain airborne long enough for the patient to be prepared for evacuation.
Once stabilised, the patient was carefully winched from the vessel into the helicopter and flown to Mackay Base Hospital, where he was handed over for further critical care.
The operation showcased the extraordinary teamwork required for complex offshore rescues, with pilots, aircrew and medical staff working seamlessly together under challenging conditions.
Missions such as these demonstrate how emergency crews bring lifesaving care to people in need, no matter how far from shore they may be.
BMA CQ Rescue have been referred to as a community funded lifeline in the sky. Based in Mackay, the rescue helicopter service operates 24/7, 365 days a year, reaching the vast and remote corners of Central and North Queensland. The highly trained crew responds when every second counts, providing critical aeromedical care to urgent search and rescue missions. Whether it’s a serious accident, a medical emergency or a search and rescue operation, the team is dedicated to keep the region safe.
As a non-for-profit charity organisation, BMA CQ Rescue are reliant on donations, and therefore every little contribution helps. The group do vital work that saves lives and provides urgent care in extreme situations.
Captions
Crews from BMA CQ Rescue performed a winch rescue from a cruise ship in the Whitsundays during a critical offshore medical evacuation on 5 March. Photo source: Facebook
International Women’s Day celebrations across the Whitsundays have highlighted the strength, leadership and community spirit of women in our region - and now new opportunities are opening to help local women take the next step in their careers.
Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm said the celebrations were a wonderful reminder of the important role women play in shaping communities across the region.
In Proserpine, the Lions Club and local volunteer Lyn Burke organised an International Women’s Day luncheon which quickly sold out, with more than 140 tickets snapped up by locals eager to celebrate the occasion together. While heavy rain unfortunately forced the event to be postponed on the day, organisers are already working on a new date so the celebration can still go ahead.
Meanwhile at Shute Harbour Marine Terminal, the Zonta Club of the Whitsundays hosted a successful International Women’s Day event recognising two local women for their contributions to the community.
Ms Camm said the events reflected the strong community spirit across the Whitsundays.
“It is fantastic to see people coming together to celebrate and support the women who make such a difference in our community,” Ms Camm said.
At the same time, Ms Camm said there was exciting news for women looking to grow their careers, with Round 2 of the Women’s Career Grants opening on 23 March.
The program provides one-off grants of up to $5,000 to help women overcome financial barriers when returning to work or taking the next step in their careers.
The funding can assist with costs such as workwear, childcare, training, recertification, tools or technology.
More than 1,000 Queensland women were supported in the first round of the program.
Expressions of interest are now open ahead of applications opening later this month at womenscareergrants.com.au.
Ms Camm encouraged local women to take advantage of the opportunity.
“This program is about supporting women to step back into the workforce, build their careers and create greater financial security for themselves and their families,” she said.
Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Electorate Office.
Captions
Lyn Burke and Lions – International Women’s Day
Photo supplied
The Whitsundays was proudly represented by some of its finest tourism operators at the 2026 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards, held in Perth last Friday night.
Four local businesses were named finalists at the national awards after first taking out honours at the state level last year. Pinnacles Airlie Beach was a finalist in the Self-Contained Accommodation category, Iconic Whitsunday Adventures was a finalist in Tour & Transport Operators, Shute Harbour Marine Terminal was a finalist in the Tourism Retail, Hire & Services category and Whitsunday Escape was recognised in the Unique Accommodation category.
While none of the local operators took home a national award on the night, reaching the national stage after winning at the state level remains a significant achievement.
The Australian Tourism Awards bring together the country’s leading tourism operators, celebrating excellence, innovation and outstanding visitor experiences across the industry.
This year the awards featured 26 categories, ranging from Major Tourist Attractions, Festivals & Events, Ecotourism and Cultural Tourism to Accommodation and Food Tourism, with a total of 179 finalists nationally.
“These finalists demonstrate the quality, creativity and dedication that make the Whitsundays a world-class tourism destination,” said Tim Booth, Chief Executive Officer of Tourism Whitsundays.
“Their achievements highlight the diversity and innovation in our region and set a high benchmark for the industry nationally.”
Local Tourism Operators Shine On National Stage
“Congratulations to all the winners and those nominated at the Australian Tourism Awards held in Perth last night,” said Pinnacles Airlie Beach in a Facebook post over the weekend.
“It was a great night celebrating industry, and we are so proud of our team and being able to represent Queensland.”
Owners of Iconic Whitsunday Adventures, Nicole and Jeremy Graham, said it was an incredible honour to represent Queensland on the national stage alongside some of the country’s most respected tourism operators.
“Being recognised as a finalist at the Australian Tourism Awards is something we are incredibly proud of,” said Nicole Graham.
“To represent not only the Whitsundays but also Queensland at a national level was a very special moment for our business and our team.”
The event was made even more meaningful for the family as their children, Georgie and Bracken, were able to attend the awards with them.
“Our children have grown up alongside the business and have seen firsthand what it takes to run a tourism operation in a seven-day-a-week industry,” Nicole said.
“Taking them with us to the national awards was incredibly special. They’ve been part of the journey, and it felt right that they could share that moment with us.”
Nicole said the recognition was a reflection of the passion and dedication of their entire crew.
“Our team are the people creating unforgettable experiences for our guests every single day. To be recognised at both the state and national level is something that belongs to all of them.”
The Qantas Australian Tourism Awards recognise operators who deliver unforgettable visitor experiences, drive innovation and contribute to the growth and sustainability of their destinations.
The Whitsundays’ representation across four categories underscores the region’s strength as a leading tourism destination.
“The commitment of these businesses to creating memorable and unique experiences is what makes The Whitsundays so special for visitors from across Australia and the world,” Mr Booth added.
Captions:
1: The Graham family from Iconic Whitsunday Adventures. Photo supplied
2: The team from Pinnacles, Airlie Beach. Photo supplied
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