Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Mackay Business Awarded $19,807 To Strengthen Security A Mackay business is among dozens across Queensland to receive State Government funding for security upgrades aimed at deterring crime and improving safety for staff and customers. Beyond Psyence Pty Ltd has been awarded $19,807 through Round 2 of the Secure Communities Partnership Program, with the funding to be used for access control and entry management measures. The business was one of 62 small and family businesses across the state to receive funding in the latest round of the program, which supports the installation of crime prevention infrastructure such as CCTV, secure fencing, bollards, alarm systems and lighting upgrades. Minister for Small and Family Business Steve Minnikin said the funding would help businesses take practical steps to improve security. “This program empowers local small businesses to take proactive steps to protect their livelihoods, employees, and customers, while contributing to safer communities across Queensland,” Mr Minnikin said. “I’m proud that two-thirds of funding in this release has been awarded to small businesses based in regional Queensland, ensuring support reaches every corner of our state.” The Secure Communities Partnership Program provides grants of between $5,000 and $20,000 to eligible small and family businesses that have been directly impacted by crime in the past five years, or operate in areas affected by crime. Applicants are required to contribute at least 50 per cent of the total project cost and can use the funding for a range of security measures including surveillance systems, access control upgrades, perimeter security and alarm systems. The latest funding round follows Round 1 of the program, which delivered $9.6 million for 42 projects in partnership with local councils. Queensland businesses with fewer than 20 employees and an annual turnover of $10 million or less remain eligible to apply for funding, with applications open until the 30th of June or until available funding is exhausted. Further information about the Secure Communities Partnership Program is available through www.business.qld.gov.au.
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Isaac Looks To The Future With Proposed $500 Million Fund Isaac Regional Council is proposing the creation of a long-term Future Fund designed to help safeguard essential services and financial stability for future generations as the region prepares for life beyond mining. The proposed Isaac Future Fund would gradually build a financial reserve using a portion of the region's current mining-related prosperity, with the aim of offsetting future revenue losses when mining activity eventually declines. Currently, almost 70 per cent of the council's rates income comes from the mining sector, creating what council describes as a significant future challenge when mines are decommissioned and mining leases are recategorised. To establish the fund, council is proposing to reduce the early payment rates discount for mining leases, workforce accommodation and renewable energy projects from 10 per cent to five per cent this year, before removing the remaining five per cent next year. All other ratepayer categories would continue to receive the full 10 per cent early payment discount. The change is expected to contribute approximately $3.2 million to the fund in its first year. Isaac Regional Council Mayor Kelly Vea Vea said the initiative was focused on protecting future communities from substantial rate increases needed to maintain services once mining revenue begins to decline. “The Future Fund is a long-term strategy intended to grow our own funds over the decades and used to replace mining sector income to maintain services to communities when mining eventually declines,” Mayor Vea Vea said. “We cannot rely on future governments to subsidise services and infrastructure when funding to local councils has already been reducing over time. Our Council knows that we need to generate our own revenue source to protect future generations from the long-term financial impact that is inevitable when we are so financially reliant on mining.” Council said the fund would not be financed by general ratepayers and would be protected from being spent for decades while it continues to grow. Once the fund reaches approximately $50 million, and subject to the necessary approvals, council intends to invest the money through the Queensland Investment Corporation to generate additional returns, with earnings reinvested back into the fund. The long-term target is to grow the Future Fund to around $500 million while preserving the principal for future generations. Mayor Vea Vea said the proposal reflected responsible long-term planning for the region. “Smart regions plan ahead and responsible leadership means thinking long term and beyond the next election or budget cycle. There are many hoops to jump through and a lot of work to do in order to get the Future Fund to where it needs to be. We have to start now.” Council has spent the past 12 months developing the proposal in consultation with the Queensland Treasury Corporation and pointed to similar investment funds established by other regional councils, including Western Downs. The Future Fund would remain subject to council governance, auditing and reporting requirements, with any future investment arrangements required to comply with Queensland local government legislation and council policies. CAPTION: Isaac Regional Council is proposing a new Future Fund designed to help protect community services and financial sustainability for future generations as the region prepares for the long-term impacts of a changing mining industry. Photo supplied
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I always appreciate a robust discussion in our community, and I welcome the feedback regarding my recent opinion piece, ‘Why We Must Restore Biological Reality to Our Laws’. It is clear that the issues surrounding the Sex Discrimination Act are deeply emotive, and I respect the passion shown by your anonymous correspondent. However, I feel it is necessary to clear up some significant misunderstandings. My original article was focused on a matter of legislative principle: the need for our laws to reflect biological reality to ensure certainty, safety, and privacy in spaces reserved for women and girls. My article did not mention transgender individuals, I believe it is unhelpful to misrepresent my position in such a way, the added inflammatory rhetoric attributed to me was not part of my statement. I also want to address the concerns raised regarding domestic violence. We are in total agreement that domestic violence is an absolute scourge on our society, and it is a topic I have spoken about many times in my capacity as your federal representative. However, suggesting that my call for biological clarity in law somehow enables violence is a complete distortion of my intent and misses the mark entirely. We can be a community that is compassionate and supportive of everyone, while still maintainingthe clear, common-sense laws that protect the rights of women and girls, these two goals are not mutually exclusive. My goal is to return that clarity to our statute books so that the law serves everyone equitably. Advocating for clear, sex-based protections is not an attack on the humanity or rights of others, it is a necessary step to ensure that the foundational legal boundaries, which many women rely on for their sense of security, are not quietly eroded. I welcome a robust debate, but I prefer it to be based on what I have actually said, rather than on motives or ideologies that have been attributed to me. I remain committed to finding common sense solutions that ensure fairness and safety for all in our community.
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A practical community support initiative will take place in Mackay this month, with Mackay Pet Rescue Inc preparing to assist men experiencing hardship alongside their pets at the Neighbourhood Hub during Men’s Week. The event will be held on June 10th from 9am to 12 noon and will provide essential supplies and services aimed at keeping men and their pets together during times of vulnerability. For many attending, pets are not simply companions but a source of stability during difficult circumstances. The initiative is designed to reduce pressure on both individuals and rescue services by offering direct, immediate assistance. The Men’s Week initiative will provide a range of support items including pet food, tents, sleeping bags, dog sleeping bags, hygiene packs and flea and worm treatments. A veterinarian will also be on site to provide additional medical care. The program has been supported through a grant from the Mackay Community Foundation, enabling the rescue to expand its outreach during the colder months. President of Mackay Pet Rescue Inc Janet Ambrose said the focus is on ensuring people are supported before situations reach crisis point. “We’re making sure they don’t fall through the cracks, and they are seen, because they’re just as important, and we want to help their pets as much as we can.” “If we can help someone that’s vulnerable, so that they don’t have to give up their pet, then that’s a win, not just for them, but for us as well.” Ms Ambrose said the work carried out by the organisation is grounded in compassion and community responsibility. “Many of the owners we assist are facing illness, ageing, are homeless or experience a sudden life change. Pets are extremely important to people, and often provide essential emotional support during uncertain times.” “We’re here to help, because this is what humanity is all about.” “A lot of people think we’re just helping animals, but we’re really helping their owners too.” Between now and June 10th residents are encouraged to support the initiative by donating pet food through collection bins located across Mackay. Donation points include Northern Beaches Vet Hospital, Petbarn Greenfields, Petstock Paget and Bucasia Road, Pets Domain Rural View, Woolworths stores at Mount Pleasant, Oak Street, Ooralea and Rural View, Coles at Parkside Plaza and Sarina, Sydney Street Markets, and Goodes Butchers Sarina. What? Mackay Pet Rescue Men’s Hardship Drive Where? The Neighbourhood Hub When? June 10th 9am-12pm Mackay Pet Rescue Inc will support men experiencing hardship and their pets, providing essential supplies, veterinary care, and community donations to help keep them together during times of vulnerability. Photo supplied
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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
In the pouring rain last week, veteran visitor and honourary local to the Whitsundays Jan Smith was searching for her son-in-law in a drenched carpark at a nearby shopping centre.
Spotting a white Ute that looked exactly like his, she swung open the door and jumped straight into the vehicle, ready to be driven home in the dry comfort of what she thought was his car.
When she turned to look at her son-in-law, however, she instead found a young man in his twenties beaming at her with a wide, friendly grin.
“I think I might have gotten in the wrong car!” she said, laughing at the mistake.
“That’s ok,” he replied. “Are you alright? Can I help you find the right car?”
Jan politely declined and jumped back out into the now lighter rain to continue her search for the correct vehicle.
A few minutes later she noticed the same young man approaching her.
“Are you sure you’re ok?” he asked, once again offering to help in any way he could.
Fortunately, at that exact moment Jan spotted her son-in-law heading towards them. He had been waiting a little further along since the agreed pickup time and had seen her.
Jan said goodbye to her good Samaritan, but the moment stayed with her long after.
Not only did it give her a funny story to share with friends and family about accidentally jumping into a stranger’s car, it also a reminder of the kindness that is everywhere in our community.
“To think he would get out of his vehicle again to check on me, what a lovely young man,” she said.
Our Mackay journalist said to me this week that perhaps we should mention the conflict in Iran and how it is beginning to cause concern locally.
I think she’s absolutely right.
Sometimes living here in the Whitsundays can feel like we exist in a small, beautiful bubble, a tropical microcosm somewhat removed from the chaos and tragedies unfolding around the world. But even here, thousands of kilometres away, we are starting to feel the ripple effects of events happening in the Middle East.
Fuel prices have sky-rocketed, groceries seem to be getting more expensive by the week, and there’s a general sense of uncertainty in the air. Conversations that once centred on weekend plans or the weather are now touching on global tensions, oil prices and what it might all mean for Australia.
For many of us, this is probably the first major global event since COVID that has made us collectively sit up and pay attention again. It’s understandable that people feel a little uneasy, wondering how something so far away could affect our businesses, our jobs and our daily lives.
At the same time, it is worth remembering that while we may be feeling the pressure economically, others around the world are facing circumstances far more confronting. For people living in regions directly affected by conflict, the uncertainty is not about petrol prices or grocery bills, but about safety, stability and survival.
That perspective doesn’t make the pressures we are feeling here any less real. Challenges are always relative to where we stand. But it does remind us how fortunate we are to live in a place where, despite global tensions, we can still wake up to the beauty of the Whitsundays, go about our daily lives and feel safe within our community.
Perhaps in times like these, the best thing we can do locally is look out for one another, support our businesses and remember that even when the world feels unsettled, our community remains one of our greatest strengths.
Rach
Quote of the Week: “You may kill me with your hatefulness. But still, like air, I’ll rise” (Maya Angelou)
Whitsunday local Jure Portelli has made history as the first ever Australian to be selected for the incredibly prestigious Honda Racing School Suzuka Formula Class. At just 17 years old, she is also the only female driver to be selected for the 2026 intake.
This incredible opportunity only seeks out the top racing talent and has launched careers of Indy 500 and Formula 1 drivers. Jure managed to beat fierce competition, securing her place in the advanced course against only a few dozen of the most talented up and coming drivers in the world.
This wonderful achievement is making the region incredibly proud as we eagerly anticipate the next stages of her undoubtedly fruitful career.
Local Talent Makes History
Jure Portelli Becomes First Australian at Honda Racing School Suzuka
North Queensland is celebrating a remarkable achievement in the world of motorsport. Seventeen-year-old Jure Portelli has made history as the first Australian ever selected for the prestigious Honda Racing School Suzuka Formula Class. Even more inspiring, she is the only female driver in this year’s intake.
The Honda Racing School in Japan is known worldwide for nurturing some of the best young racing talent. Led by Indy 500 winner Takuma Sato, the program has helped launch careers like that of Formula 1 driver Yuki Tsunoda. For Jure, this opportunity follows a tough competition against 30 drivers from across the globe, which included two days of intensive testing. Only 10 made it to the next stage, and after further trials, Jure secured her place in the advanced course.
This achievement reflects not just Jure’s skill, but her dedication and versatility. She has honed her driving across many disciplines—from endurance racing and rally to training with the Ferrari Driver Academy. Her journey began in local karting, and in just five years she has reached the world stage.
To take this next big step, Jure will be relocating to Japan to complete her training. This comes with considerable costs for travel, living, and coaching. As a grassroots racer supported primarily by her father, who also serves as her mechanic, Jure is now calling on the local community for sponsorship and donations to help make this dream a reality.
Her story is one of passion, family support, and sheer determination. It’s a proud moment for North Queensland and a wonderful example of what young people from our region can achieve with the right support.
Let’s rally behind Jure Portelli as she races toward an exciting future, representing our community on the international stage.
Captions
Photo supplied
Queenslanders are being reminded that simple home maintenance can play a key role in protecting properties during severe weather events.
Advice from Get Ready Queensland encourages residents to keep their homes well maintained throughout the year to improve resilience during cyclones, storms and flooding.
Basic maintenance tasks such as checking roof conditions, clearing gutters and trimming overhanging tree branches can help reduce the risk of damage when extreme weather strikes. Ensuring gutters and downpipes are free from leaves and debris allows water to drain properly and prevents overflow during heavy rainfall.
Residents are also encouraged to repair any loose fittings, rusted areas or damaged timber around their homes to strengthen structures before storm season arrives.
Insurance is another important step in preparing for disasters. Queensland is the most disaster-affected state in Australia, with communities regularly experiencing events such as cyclones, floods and bushfires. Authorities recommend reviewing home and contents insurance policies to ensure adequate coverage.
Preparing ahead of severe weather warnings can also make a significant difference. Homeowners are advised to secure outdoor furniture, toys and other loose items that could become dangerous in high winds. Vehicles should be parked in sheltered areas away from trees, waterways and powerlines.
Sandbags may also help reduce flood impacts if placed correctly around entry points such as doors and garages. Residents should also identify the safest room inside their home to shelter in during a storm, ideally away from large windows.
Checking on neighbours, particularly elderly residents, and ensuring pets and livestock are moved to safe areas are also important steps during extreme weather.
By staying prepared and maintaining homes regularly, Queenslanders can reduce risks and better protect their families and property when severe weather occurs.
CAPTION: Clearing your gutters is a simple, yet effective way to prepare your home ahead of severe weather. Photo source: Shutterstock
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