Anyone who wants reassurance about Mackay real estate need only look at the state of play in our local business community.

There are several crucial things you need to be across if you want to run a successful business in Mackay, or anywhere else for that matter.

Identifying a service or product that is in demand is an important start. Got the skills to provide that service or product? Yep. Well that’s a big tick.

A site to base your operations? Done! Another tick.

Now it’s just a matter of having the right staff. Um, well … we do have problems there.

Getting staff is a major issue for Mackay businesses and many are forced to look outside the usual solutions, such as putting an ad on Seek, to solve the problem.

I bumped into a successful Mackay businessman the other day who is bringing a group of skilled workers from Latin America to Mackay to provide the manpower (now there’s a word you probably can’t use any more but “people power” has a completely different meaning and “person power” sounds ridiculous) that he needs for his expanding business.

There are plenty of other businesses in the mining, mechanical, restaurant and service industries that are looking overseas to find skilled staff.

And this is where real estate comes into it. If our market were overflowing with empty investment properties, our migrant workers would be waltzing into whatever affordable, quality accommodation they wanted.

But it’s not as simple as that. It’s great to bring staff in to meet demand but they have to live somewhere and that’s where local businesses are getting creative.

Quite a few businesses are now buying property to accommodate their workers. Several have bought motels or other properties to accommodate staff coming from overseas and down south.

There is certainly a need for a separate conversation about the “housing crisis” that is an issue here and elsewhere in Australia and it is something governments need to address.

However, the point of this column is that the issues facing businesses do provide reassurance for people buying and owning real estate in this town.

Firstly, most businesses seem to be flat out and struggling to meet demand. So the economy is going well, which means business owners are making a buck and local people have jobs. That’s good for the real estate market.

Secondly, what does it tell us about the real estate market if rental accommodation is so tight that business people are buying property to accommodate staff? It comes back to economics … supply and demand.  

There is a pretty good reason to be confident about buying into a market when supply is tight and demand is strong, particularly when there appears to be no sign on the horizon of that changing any time soon. But that’s just my opinion.

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Opinion Piece

On July 26, council adopted the Mackay Region Recreational Vehicle Strategy, and I am unapologetic in how exciting this was for me personally.

In 2016, I and other councillors started advocating for this strategy based on feedback from people in our community who travel throughout Australia in their own RVs. We received clear messages that people who own RVs want different camping options in the locations they travel to, and that we, as a region, needed to ensure that travellers didn’t keep bypassing us on their way to other destinations.

In October 2022, Council engaged Otium Planning Group to assist in the preparation of the Mackay Region RV Strategy. Some of the objectives of the strategy were to have actions that would attract a greater share of the RV market, provide economic benefit to the region and to have an action plan that clarifies council’s role. There was significant desktop research conducted as well as consultation sessions so all relevant stakeholders could be heard before releasing the draft strategy document for public consultation.

The caravan and camping market was already growing before Covid-19 and since 2019 has been expanding rapidly with high demand for caravans and RVs. Caravans are getting longer and are increasingly self-contained. Some key statistics from the strategy is that total registrations of RVs in 2022 was 772,598, that Queensland continues to have the most RV registrations and the 30-to-54-year market makes up 47 per cent of all trips, followed by the 55+ market with 29 per cent.  

Mackay

Part of the message from council in the strategy is that it represents council’s vision to transform the Mackay region into a chosen destination for RV adventurers, with the goal to facilitate an array of RV stay options and strategic promotion of our key destinations, all aimed at capturing an even larger portion of the RV market.

With the first stage of the mountain bike park already underway, I believe the strategy will be an important step in the success of this unique adventure tourism offering and I can’t wait to welcome many more travellers and RVs to our region.  

Cr Fran Mann

Mackay Regional Council

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Local Yachties Ready To Win

A sail full of strong ambition and a hull lot of healthy competition is at the heart Airlie Beach Race Week (ABRW) where old rivals come together to test their mettle.

Throughout the week, marina berths have filled with white yachts and laughter as crews are reunited and anticipation builds for another exciting event.

One of these crews is from Treasure Vlll, a 36-foot yacht which has competed in ABRW for the past 16 years, eight of which with current owner and skipper, Rob Davis.

Comprising largely of old friends, the crew are a spirited and jovial bunch who have managed to achieve second and third place over the years, but are of course hoping for a first place medal this year.

“We’ve got the best crew this year and really hoping for a win,” said Davis.

“Airlie Beach Race Week is the pinnacle of sailing for us each year and we are excited to get out there and compete.”

Treasure Vlll is made by the prestigious Reichel/Pugh design company, which is famous for its fast designs, and was made in Dubai by the English boat makers, Seaquest Yachts.

Davis has been sailing for over 30 years and bought the vessel in 2015 when his wife finally permitted him to spend the money on his dream boat.

Since then, he hasn’t looked back, competing regularly in the Magnetic Island Race Week, Hamilton Island Race Week, and regattas in Bowen.

Gathering comrades for this week’s competition, the crew are made up of locals and a couple of new recruits.

Sue Neales was part of an all-women team that won their division in the Magnetic Island Race week last year and she will be on the Treasure Vlll’s crew along with “secret weapon”, Japanese recruit Yusuke Takahashi, who has flown over specifically for the event.

Treasure Vlll is competing in the Performance Handicap Cruising Division this week so if you are out there too, make sure you say hello.

“We love Race Week, it’s like a big catch up for us all!” said Davis.

“It’s a big family – but of course we are friends on shore and enemies on the water!”

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The crew of Treasure Vlll are welcomed by Whitsunday Sailing Club Manager, Robin Ross. Photo credit: Rachael Smith.

Robin Ross greets owner of Treasure Vlll, Rob Davis, with a welcoming handshake. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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Community spirit is high at this time of year!

With the Great Barrier Reef Festival last week and Airlie Beach Race Week setting sail today, I feel like we are sandwiched between two of the most exciting events of the year and the whole town is the tastiest filling, buzzing with life!

Symbolising our quintessential seaside lifestyle, both festivals offer a unique take on what makes us ‘us’ here in the Whitsundays.

Airlie Beach Race Week lives true to the local saying – “a drinking town with a sailing problem” - with the nightlife just as good as the on-water fun.

I can’t wait to head down to the Festival Village myself this weekend to enjoy the contagious camaraderie of the event.

While Race week celebrates sailing, the Great Barrier Reef Festival showcases local culture in a different way – it’s a festival where the arts, the environment and families all come together to celebrate our wonderful way of life.

Last Friday, for the first time in my life, instead of watching the Lantern Parade weave past as a spectator, I actually took part in the event.

I loved the buzz of excitement as we all found our lanterns and the night revealed their special glow, the start of the procession as twinkling lights framed the horizon and the smiles on faces from those who cheered as we slowly strolled by.

It was a truly special experience.

After a busy week at the newspaper, I found the Parade a great reminder to slow down, enjoy the moment and absorb the good times.

Moving at a snail’s pace, my partner and I were able to take it all in and appreciate our special little family unit.

We watched the three children hold their lanterns, say hi to friends and enjoy being part of the performance.

A huge congratulations to the organisers for putting on another spectacular event.

Rach

Quote of the Week: “I hope that while so many people are out there smelling the flowers, someone is taking the time to plant some” (Herbert Rappaport)

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Fate looked destined to scupper plans for Mrs Norman’s 92nd-birthday cake in Collinsville last week when her family were unable to order a slab cake from nearby Bowen.

Unfortunately, one of the ovens was not working at the bakery and cakes were off the menu.

A friend of the family, Cheryl Hankinson, stepped in to help and asked at the local Collinsville Bakery but was told that they’d had a power outage overnight and without being able to get any baked goods ready, they’d decided to shut that day.

It was looking like Mrs Norman would not have a birthday cake this year.

Fortunately, Collinsville is a small town where most people know each other well, so it wasn’t long before Cheryl had spoken with owners of the bakery, Michelle and Tony Dawson, and they’d agreed to take on the job as a special request.

“It was marvellous!” said Cheryl.

“I told them we needed it by Tuesday, and they whipped it up overnight – it was such a relief because we were all so worried we wouldn’t be able to get one in time for her birthday.

“We were very pleased – there are so many small businesses in Collinsville that do a great job and they deserve credit!”

Mrs Norman’s 92nd birthday took place at the Bowen Hotel last Tuesday evening and over 30 friends and family enjoyed the beautifully made slab cake together.

“She was very excited and when she saw the cake, she had tears in her eyes!” said Cheryl.

If you know of a good deed, however big or small, please feel free to call 0417 267 373 or email rachael@mackayandwhitsundaylife.com

Short-term accommodation applications are once again on the chopping block, but this time Councillors are voicing concerns that rate payers are forking out the costs for frequent court appeals, making each refusal a pointless cost.

At Wednesday’s Ordinary Council Meeting, Whitsunday Regional Council decided to refuse yet another Short-Term Accommodation application for a dual occupancy home in Wambiri Street, Cannonvale.

The property is deemed low density residential zoning under the Planning Scheme and the decision to refuse this application, despite other similar properties being approved in the past, is due to Council waiting for a new local law to be created.

This local law aims to regulate the amount of short-term accommodation permitted in the area, following exponential growth in the sector which, many believe, has reduced the availability of local rental properties.

While they are waiting for the details of the new local law to be confirmed, many Councillors have decided to vote to refuse any more short term accommodation applications in residential suburbs outside of the Airlie Beach centre.

“Nine per cent of residences are short term accommodation in the 4802 postcode,” said Councillor Clay Bauman.

“I appreciate people coming here for holidays, but I cannot support this particular application.”

At Wednesday’s Council meeting, much of the discussion revolved around a review that was completed by the Honourable Dr Steven Miles, Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning.

In the review, the State Government found that most Short Term Accommodation is located along the coastal areas of Queensland.

“It is no surprise that the review revealed short-term rentals are most prevalent in high tourism coastal areas like Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, Noosa, Douglas, Whitsunday, Cairns, Moreton Bay, and Townsville,” Deputy Premier Steven Miles said.

According to Councillor Bauman, 4.6 percent of all of Queensland Short Term Accommodation properties are within the Whitsunday region, while only having 0.7 per cent of Queensland population.

“Individuals staying in Short Term Accommodation do not care where they park, or how much noise they make, or whether or not they are upsetting residents,” said Mr Bauman.

“They are a demographic looking for a good time, in a circumstance where they are not staying for a long time.”

Councillor Jan Clifford said she will continue to vote against Short Term Accommodation in residential suburbs.

“The Airlie bowl is a different situation; it’s where you expect people to have a good time,” she said.

“Two years ago, I asked for a local law, and I know it’s sitting on some bureaucrats desk.”

At the moment, there are four appeals in court, to revisit the Councils refusal of Short-Term Accommodation applications.

“In my professional view, there is a reduced limited likelihood of success,” said Director Neil McGaffin, when asked about the chances of winning these court cases.

“How can we keep sustaining the costs of these court cases, when we’ve got to stay within what the directors recommend,” said Councillor John Collins.

“We need to look at the big picture, not personal opinion.”

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Vinnies Airlie Beach has re-opened and is boasting it’s upgraded and beautifully renovated shopfront.

Having been closed to the public for over six weeks, after having a flooding event earlier this year which fast tracked the much needed renovations, the Vinnies shopfront underwent extensive renovations and upgrades, with fantastic new paint, displays, wall art, and cash register area.

The official re-opening saw all hands-on deck, with two volunteers each manning the four tills, volunteers greeting and handing out baskets at the door, others restocking shelves and racks with more clothing and household goods, and volunteers preparing the free sausage sizzle in the carpark.

Still with the bargain pricing, Vinnies Airlie Beach has distinct areas for men’s, women’s, and children’s clothing, extensive home goods, including Manchester, home décor and furnishings, and a wide range of books, movies, and board games.

During the length of the renovation, Vinnies had relocated to a small shopfront in the Whitsunday Shopping Centre, with only a small selection of clothing and home goods, leaving the community excited for the re-opening.

It is clear that the community missed this gem of a charity shop, with visitors being steady throughout its first week back to regular operation.

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With many volunteers on the floor and behind the tills, the reception of the grand re-opening of Vinnies Airlie Beach was well received

A free sausage sizzle welcomed patrons to the re-opening celebrations. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge

Two-Vehicle Crash

One patient with a neck injury and one patient with an arm injury were transported in a stable condition, to Proserpine Hospital following a two-vehicle crash on Kingfisher Terrace, in Jubilee Pocket at 2.28am Saturday, August 5.

Random Breath Testing

On August 2, at 1.25am, police intercepted a 22-year-old Jubilee Pocket woman on Shute Harbour Road, with a 0.145 per cent alcohol reading. Her licence was suspended, and she will appear in court.

On August 3 at 11pm, police pulled over a 37-year-old Strathdickie man on Stewart Drive in Cannonvale, who recorded a positive RBT result. His licence was suspended, and he will appear in court.

Possession

A 28-year-old Mackay man was arrested for contravening his police banning notice on August 4 at 7.40am, after police received notice of him acting suspiciously near the Whitsunday Police Station.

After a police search, it is alleged he was carrying one gram of leafy material, believed to be cannabis, a water pipe, and a large kitchen knife. He will appear before the courts for possession of dangerous drugs, possessing a drug utensil, possessing a knife in a public place, and contravening a police banning notice.

Altercation

Police attended an altercation on August 1 at 10.25pm, when the security of a licensed premise asked a group of six to eight people to leave the venue.

The group were escorted to the front of the premise where an altercation broke out.

Security staff were punched by persons in the group, and one security staff member was bitten on the arm by a female of the group.

Following the altercation, police were able to locate a man who matched a description of one of the group members, provided by the security staff.

The man and his wife’s details were recorded, and the investigation is ongoing.

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The Queensland Country Women’s Association Proserpine has hit its biggest milestone, celebrating 100 years of dedicated service and commitment to Proserpine and the wider Whitsundays community.

The Proserpine branch began with a meeting between five local ladies, held in the Grand Theatre.

Its main goal was to alleviate isolation and loneliness felt by women and children who lived in the area, which was predominately farming properties.

From there, a request was sent for a Country Women’s Association representative to travel to Proserpine and share the aims and objectives of the group further.

Mrs Fairfax and Miss Nevell travelled to Proserpine in July 1923, and spoke with a large group of ladies, about 51 in total, thus forming the Proserpine branch.

In 1935, the QCWA Proserpine built their own hall, in Faust Street, which still services the group for meetings and functions.

The branch’s official Centenary celebrations will take place on August 19, with any and all past members or members of other clubs, and members of the wider community.

The luncheon will include a light lunch, a fantastic tea pot display, a lucky door prize, raffle, and an exploration of the club’s history.

Contact the branch for further information or to RSVP on proserpineqcwq@gmail.com.

WHAT: QCWA Proserpine Branch 100 Years Celebrations

WHERE: CQWA Hall, 4 Faust Street, Proserpine

WHEN: Saturday August 19, 10am to 1pm

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By Paul Gellatly

'Blowin' Bowen' has lived up to its reputation by curtailing the construction of a 300 metre temporary floating jetty by US forces presently in the town as part of the Talisman Sabre exercise.

The US vessels, MV Bob Hope and MV Fisher, were waiting offshore of Bowen on August 3 for a break in blustery conditions at sea to allow the laying of a 300-metre floating jetty to connect supply vehicles with Kings Beach, the site of the logistics supply exercise.

That exercise, however, was put in doubt last weekend when it became clear that the conditions looked set to continue indefinitely, and equipment failures dogged the exercise.

On Tuesday, Australian Defence Force Lt-Col Bernie Kronen said he still hoped the exercise could be attempted, but he said the window of opportunity was closing fast.

Last Thursday (August 3) US Joint Task Force 7 held a community briefing session at the Flagstaff Hill Cafe Conference Centre as part of the Talisman Sabre 2023 exercise.

The non-technical briefing was to help foster common understanding of the floating pier rollout, which was to be a crowning feature of the US task force's presence in Bowen

"These are the largest exercises we have ever done in Australia," Lt-Col Bernie Kronen said.

"We want to make this thing as big as we can.

"We want to impress the allies, we also want to show any potential adversaries what we are capable of."

Lt-Col Kronen said the size of Talisman Sabre would only continue to grow in future iterations, from the initial Australia-US exercise about 15 years ago, to today's exercise that drew in 13 participating nations.

He said the exercises were important ways of ensuring that different equipment and weaponry from the participating nations could be integrated.

JTF-7 staff laid out an operations table with information panels at the Flagstaff Hill Cafe and were on hand to take questions from the audience of around 60.

The audience heard how Bowen was chosen from around 14 sites in Queensland for what would informally become known as 'Operation Big Mango', which they said was one of the largest over-the-shore exercises ever attempted by the US.

However, they emphasised that they placed a heavy emphasis on minimal environmental disturbance and inconvenience to Bowen residents.

They jokingly mentioned three results of their presence: first, the town had run out of fishing line; second, all the Coca-Cola supplies were sold out; and third, locals were asking when they could have their beach back.

JTF-7 Commander Col. Samuel Miller said the Bowen visit had been greatly enjoyed by US troops, many of whom had been on their first posting overseas.

He also said he had warmed to Bowen's cafes and eateries where he had found good coffee and food, with one even piping out his favourite Country and Western music to make him feel right at home.

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Weather blow: Lt-Col Bernie Kronen undertakes his part of the community briefing while US ships lie idle awaiting better conditions.

Feeling at home: JTF-7 Commander Col. Samuel Miller addresses the audience inside the Flagstaff Hill Cafe Conference Centre.

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Government Backflips On Commitment For Marine Insurance Scheme

By Bronte Hodge

The Whitsunday marine industry has been left astounded, following the release of the government backed Cyclone Reinsurance Pool that completely excludes Marine Insurance, putting local small water-based businesses at an unfair disadvantage.

Once endorsed by the former Government, the current Labour Government has decided not to include Marine Insurance in the newly released Cyclone Reinsurance Pool, which was set to be a relief for the marine industry and operators.

Marine operators have seen unprecedented increases in marine insurance costs, with some cases increasing by more than 10 per cent a year, and more than $20 million in excess cover.

The Cyclone Reinsurance Pool is a scheme backed by a $10 million guarantee from the Government, which allows insurance companies to mitigate their cyclone and cyclone-related risk and therefor lower costs for insurance policies.

Previously, it was anticipated that the Insurance Pool would cover all policies, but it has now come to light that it only covers household, strata, and small business property, up to $5 million, insurance policies, negating marine completely.

Following this announcement, Coral Sea Marina has partnered with the Australian Consumer Insurance Lobby and wider maritime industry in Northern Australia to urge for federal assistance and intervention.

Joscelyn O’Keefe, Head of Marketing and Business Development for Coral Sea Marina, said the insurance crisis is impacting all marinas in Northern Australia.

“Premiums continue to rise exponentially, and the burden of extreme cyclone excesses needs to be factored into the business’s operational costs,” she said.

“It means the same for our marina, that it does for all impacted marinas; with the continued rise in insurance costs for marinas in this part of Australia, the impact for the consumer is increased berthing fees, making berthing in marinas in Northern Australia untenable for some boat owners.”

The Whitsundays region, much like many other coastal and tourism reliant areas, has seen continued spikes in marine insurance expenses which will have a flow on effect into wider regional economic spend and development.

This will also impact marine tourism operators as well, with the burden of operating their on-water tourism businesses continuing to grow as insurance premiums rise exponentially each year with overinflated excesses imposed on cyclone-related claims.

Nicole Graham has been in the marine tourism industry for 17 years, with her business, Iconic Whitsunday Adventures having three vessels in operation.

“With insurance policies, we have to pass those costs on to our customers,” Mrs Graham explains.

“And for us to keep passing those costs on to the customers, we are going to become unsustainable, and we're going to be known as ‘that's expensive to go there. Don't go there, go to Bali, it's cheaper’, where there's less regulation, there's less safety, less safety risk management plans in place and things like that.”

2017 Cyclone Debbie caused catastrophic damage to Mrs Graham’s business, with one of their vessels, Lady Enid, being out of action for seven months for repairs, and the insurance was not willing to help.

“We lost business for seven months,” she said.

“It seems unfair that big developers get this insurance relief and small marine businesses like ours do not.”

Coral Sea Marina is one of the biggest marinas in the Whitsundays and a hub for marine tourism operators.

“Marine tourism in the Whitsundays injects billions of dollars into the economy and supports thousands of jobs,” explains Ms O’Keefe.

“The marine tourism operators who take our tourists out to the Great Barrier Reef use the marina as their base.

“If berthing fees continue to rise, to offset the rising costs of insurance, marine tourism businesses are also impacted.”

Many in the tourism industry believe that their exclusion from the Cyclone Reinsurance Pool is a “kick in the guts” for marine operators.

“How can [the government] justify not including us when we employ so many people?

“And like I said, it's not just about employment, it’s about supporting all small businesses,” said Mrs Graham.

Thankfully, the maritime industry of Northern Australia has a two-pronged plan to fight against what they believe is an unfair exclusion.

Initially, they will be asking the Federal Government to reconsider the decision to omit Marine Insurance in the Cyclone Reinsurance Pool.

If by 2025 the Federal Government has not reviewed the Pool, Coral Sea Marina will lobby the Government for subsidised premiums for marina owners to be considered as an interim measure.

Mrs Graham believes this action could still be years away, but the detrimental effects are occurring immediately to the industry.

“Just knowing that the government had our back, it would show they’re supporting us,” she said.

“A lot of us are small businesses and we can’t just keep increasing our prices.”

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Nicole Graham operates a marine tourism business, and being left out of the Cyclone Reinsurance Pool is a “kick in the guts”. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge

Easing the self-build stressors of supply-chain issues and extended lead-times, Airlie Summit’s house and land packages are proving popular with discerning buyers who want a no-fuss experience where they can work with one trusted local company to get their dream home built efficiently and on-time.

Alder Developments have designed these packages to eradicate any post-pandemic challenges for buyers and general manager, Greg Tupicoff, says they are entering the market at the right time.

“Never before has Australia seen such high demand for home building coinciding with material sourcing and labour shortages – all lingering effects of the pandemic,” Mr Tupicoff said.

“Add to this the reports of industry instability, and it is understandable that prospective buyers may be nervous about committing to a new build and deciding on a builder to work with.

“By working closely with reputable construction professionals, homeowners can mitigate many of these challenges.

“We can’t resolve the overall pressure on the industry but we can put our customers in touch with the right people so they can make an informed decision.”  

Airlie Summit is one of Airlie Beach’s last remaining sub-divisions and this 24-hectare parcel of land has development approval for the creation of 89 new residential and apartment lots all offering magnificent scenic views over the Coral Sea and Whitsunday Islands.

One of the house and land packages offered by IntegraBuild and Alder Developments features four bedrooms, two bathrooms and double garage on a 1704sqm block of land from $1,500,000.

G.J. Gardener Homes has also released a number of house and land packages with spacious four-bedroom designs selling from $1,692,500.

If you are dreaming of building your own home, contact Steve Marks at Explore Property Whitsundays to see how Airlie Summit could be the right choice for you.

Airlie Summit offers magnificent scenic views over the Coral Sea and Whitsunday Islands.

House and land packages start from $1,500,000. Photo supplied

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A region first has just driven into its Bowen showroom, with the entire range of MG Motors available for test drive and showings right here in the Whitsundays.

Formerly Bowen Mazda, Whitsunday Auto Group is proud to have all 24 model variants of MG Motors available on their showroom floor, with another 30 MG motors in the yard ready for immediate purchase.

Known in the region for their impeccable attention to detail and thorough care of clients, the family owned and operated Whitsunday Auto Group is excited to welcome this new phase in the business, overseeing the roll- out of MG Motors into the region, and tapping into an untapped market for budget yet luxurious vehicles that service every driver.

“We knew the brand would fit into our fleet,” explains Gray Brenchley, Principal for Whitsunday Auto Group.

“With the good price point and seven-year warranty, MG Motors compliments the area.”

Having rolled out the range at the beginning of the month, Gary and his team has been inundated with excited shoppers.

In fact, three vehicles have just been delivered to some of the first buyers from the business, an incredibly fast timeline for a new vehicle.

The entire range is available on the Whitsunday Auto Group showroom floor, including all eight models, each with three variants, with the brand new all electric hatchback arriving at the end of the month.

This extensive range ensures customers are making the best choice for themselves with all the information ready at their fingertips.

However, there have been three standout favourites for the Whitsunday Auto Group, with customers leaving extremely happy with their purchase.

“That would be the MG3 Hatchback, the MG5 Sedan, and the MG ZST,” said Gary.

At a remarkable price point, each vehicle boasts capable performance.

The MG ZST is for the SUV lover, with sleek panoramic sunroof, pilot driver suite and 360-degree camera.

This all-purpose vehicle is great for families and the causal driver, with plenty of space to spread out.

On the other hand, the MG5 is a premium vehicle for sports sedans.

With elegant airflow lines carved into the outer body, 1.5 litre natural aspirated 4-cylinder engine, and driver-centric tilted head unit, the driver is welcomed into a driving experience like no other.

The most cost effective of the three bestsellers is the MG3 Hatchback.

With sophiscated and luxurious features, the MG3 is known as Australia’s best selling light hatchback, with Tartan fabric trim seating, and rear parking sensors and camera.

“We have good stock,” said Gary.

“And where we don’t have stock, we can source from either another dealership, or Brisbane, Sydney, or Melbourne head offices.”

And from here, if unable to find a vehicle ready immediately, it is only less than a short three month wait for completely new stock to be constructed.

Whitsunday Auto Group is not stopping with just Mazda and MG Motors on the fleet, currently they are looking at other brands to join their showroom offering.

“We intend to expand as we move forward,” said Gary.

“We are always actively looking for more brands that complement our current fleet.”

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The team at Whitsunday Auto Group are keen to get you on the road

The entire range of MG Motors is now available for Whitsunday residents to test drive at the Whitsunday Auto Group. Photo supplied

The Jubilee Tavern bistro was a sea of purple and green on Saturday as over 200 past players of the Whitsunday Rugby League teams came together to mark 50 years since the 1973 team won the prestigious Foley Cup.

Representatives from the 1969 to 1994 teams all came together, many travelling from all over the country and some as far afield as New Zealand.

In previous years, before the Broncos and Cowboys formed, the North Queensland Rugby League competition was one of the most powerful in the country.

Tony Price, Rugby League player and Proserpine local, who also produces and publishes League Queensland Magazine, said that it was incredible to bring a trophy of this calibre back to the Whitsundays.

The Whitsunday League unfortunately folded in 1994 and Proserpine teams now play in the Mackay league, with Bowen heading north to Townsville.

The dissolution of local sport has been disappointing to Tony, but he says it is events like this that keep his spirits up and remind him about the good old days.

“It’s been 10 years since the last event and this one was special because of the 50 years,” he said.

“Everyone knew everyone at this year’s event and it was great!

Amongst the attendees, there were several star players from former years.

These included Mick McLean from Bowen, Eddie Muller from Proserpine, and Adrian Brunker from Collinsville, who all played for Queensland.

In addition, Lee Hannigan who was Captain of the 1973 winning Whitsundays Foley Shield Team and also played for Australia in 1967 came along.

Lee still holds a club record of five trys in one game for his home club of Manly.

To commemorate the reunion, Tony Price compiled a League Queensland Special Edition, proceeds of which were donated to local schools.

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Players and Representatives from Whitsundays first and only Foley Shield Champion team of 1973

The Reunion Team L-R Mike Brunker, John Martin, Tony Price, and Kathleen Maher

Over 200 people attended he reunion on Saturday. Photos supplied

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It has been a whirlwind of a time for Sandra Argo and Mark Jordan, owners of Airlie Beach Craft Distillery, more affectionally known as ABC Distillery, now hitting the five-year anniversary with a dual win at the Australian Distilled Spirit Awards.

Stemming from a small seed of an idea, the brother and sister team have overcome tumultuous times, garnering a reputable name in many local households.

Sandra specialises in bottling, accounts, and marketing, while Mark is the distiller, waking up at odd hours to check on the stills and ensuring everything is going right.

“I like to think I have the best end of the deal!” Sandra said.

Growing from one copper still to now six, ABC Distillery operations has grown more than expected.

The pair are celebrating their five-year business anniversary this year with their Whiskey Barrel Aged Rum.

Aging since 2019, this still is a favourite of Marks, and has hints of oak, Tokay, and caramel.

“It reminds me of a Christmas cake, with raisins,” described Sandra.

Using the Solera Method of aging, which has Mark removing an amount of the aged rum and refilling the barrel with newer rum, the rum has a consistent and fresh flavour.

Mark and Sandra have been rewarded for this rum, receiving a silver medal at the recent national awards.

Going up against big brands and independent distillers across Australia, the magnitude of this accomplishment rings true.

Fan favourite Tropical Gin also received accolades, with a bronze medal at the awards, after previously receiving a silver and bronze in 2021.

“The time has swum by so quickly,” explains Sandra.

“We have our regulars who pick up a bottle at every market. It has been great!”

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Mark and Sandra of ABC Distillery have marked five years of success with wins at industry awards. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge