Community News

Program Highlights: Starting the day right

Program Highlights: Starting the day right

The 2025 Whitsunday Business Conference opens with Mayor Ry Collins officially launching the event and announcing Whitsunday Regional Council’s commitment as a Small Business Friendly Council – an initiative of the Queensland Small Business Commissioner that brings people together to enhance the operating environment to help small and family businesses thrive. A key morning feature is the Working Better Together: From Vision to Impact panel, bringing together regional leaders to discuss how col

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Program Highlight: Boost Your Business with Storytelling, Service, and Smart Marketing

Program Highlight: Boost Your Business with Storytelling, Service, and Smart Marketing

At the Conference, learn how to grow your business through powerful storytelling, exceptional customer service, and effective local marketing. Rachael Smith, Editor in Chief of Mackay and Whitsunday Life, will share how personal storytelling and authentic branding build trust and deepen community connections in regional areas. Rick Brown brings decades of experience in building a $20 million business and delivering outstanding customer service, will reveal twelve key rules that create loyalty,

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TAFE Queensland: Serving Up Talent at the Whitsunday Business Conference

TAFE Queensland: Serving Up Talent at the Whitsunday Business Conference

TAFE Whitsunday is a big part of this year’s Business Conference, serving up a tasty two-course meal, and morning and afternoon treats, prepared and served by their awesome hospitality and cookery students. Attendees will enjoy the food in Palmers, their student-run training restaurant, where students get real hands-on experience. This is a great way to see local talent in action and shows how TAFE is helping students get job-ready in hospitality and tourism, two of the Whitsundays’ biggest ind

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Conference Success Powered by Local Support

Conference Success Powered by Local Support

The Whitsundays Chamber extends its thanks to the major sponsors behind the 2025 Whitsunday Business Conference, recognising their vital role in bringing the sold-out event to life. This year’s conference would not be possible without the generous contributions of: • Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine is a locally owned branch offering full banking services and investing back into the Whitsunday community. • My Pathway connects people and businesses through employment, training

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Key Solutions Group

FIRST WHALES OF THE SEASON HAVE BEEN SIGHTED IN THE WHITSUNDAYS WHALE PROTECTION AREA

June 19, 2025

The first humpback whales of the season were sighted on Friday, breaching between Penitecost Island and Suprise Rock, just south of Whitsunday and Hamilton Islands

It’s exciting and we are privileged to have them visit our waters to court, mate, give birth and rear their calves.  This is why the Whitsundays are a Whale Heritage Area.

The whales have to rely on their energy reserves until they return to their feeding ground in the Antarctic. Mothers will already loose a third of their body weight producing milk, feeding and protecting their calf.  If they loose too much weight by not resting enough, both the health of the mother and calf can be compromised.
It’s important to their continued survival that their ‘nurseries’ are free from any harassment.

Everyone using the waters of the Marine Park, have a responsibility to help protect whales and dolphins and to keep safe distances from them.

Interactions are on the whales terms and it’s possible to have amazing experiences still following the regulations.

Anywhere in the GREAT BARRIER REEF MARINE PARK
🐋Prohibited vessels (i.e. jetskis, parasails, hovercraft, hydrofoils, wing-in-ground effect craft and motorised diving aids such as underwater scooters) must not approach closer than ‘300 metres’ to a whale or dolphin.
🐋No vessels can approach within 300 metres of a calf.
🐋Whales and dolphins must not be approached within 30 degrees in front or behind.

When in the WHITSUNDAY WHALE PROTECTION AREA there are some additional rules in relation to whales.

The boundary of the WHALE PROTECTION AREA is the dashed line, which has been highlighted in yellow on the zoning map, or the darker blue area on the other map.

🐋A vessel must not approach closer than ‘300 metres’ to a whale.
🐋Negligible wake within ‘500 metres’ to a whale.
🐋A helicopter must not approach below 2000 feet or within 1000 metres of a whale.

If you are unsure of the Whale Protection Area boundary, please pick up a zoning map from a Marina office.

If you see anyone doing the wrong thing please take photos of the vessel and registration, and report all Marine Park regulation offences to 1800 380 048
or via the Reef Authority website by completing an incident report form:
https://www2.gbrmpa.gov.au/help/report-an-incident

To find out more about special whale events and information on whales in the Whitsundays, join the WHALES OF THE WHITSUNDAYS Facebook page; or go to https://www.whitsundaymarine.org/projects

Contributed by Kellie Leonard, Master Reef Guide/Whales of the Whitsundays

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The Fascinating Mating Strategies of Reef Fish

June 12, 2025

Reef fish exhibit a wide array of mating strategies, from harems to life-long couples to gender switching to pregnant males. Let’s look some of the more unusual strategies.

The parrotfish is often seen in large schools of rather bland coloured fish accompanied by one or two brightly coloured fish. The brightly coloured fish are the males, but they were not always males.

Most parrotfish are born females but depending on environmental and social pressures may transition to male. This is known as protogyny. This transition is often accompanied by a dramatic change in coloration.

This is not random. Protogyny is common in the fish world and provides some significant advantages when it comes to survival. The more females, the more eggs. The eggs are broadcast over the bottom substrate and are then fertilized by the single male. Very efficient.

If the male dies, one of the many females will transition to male and life goes on.

The very popular clownfish is a different story. Clownfish start life as a male (the Movie Finding Nemo was not entirely accurate). For those that have seen clownfish on the Reef, living within their anemone, you probably noticed one large and very dominant clownfish and a few smaller clownfish.

The large clownfish is the female and the smaller clownfish are males. All clownfish are born male. However, at some point, a male clownfish will transition to female. This is known as protandry. The transition is accompanied by an increase in size and dominance.

The strategy here is, in small groups of fish, it is beneficial for the female to be the largest to lay more eggs, resulting in greater reproductive success. Regarding the smaller males, one of the males will be slightly larger than the others. This is the dominant male and will breed.

At some point, the female will die and the largest male will transition to female and take over the group.

Probably one of the most unique mating strategy is that of the seahorse (yes, a seahorse is a fish). The males get pregnant! A female seahorse deposits her eggs inside the male’s egg pouch. The male delivers live young, and they’re basically miniature versions of adults.

Most seahorse species are monogamous, often forming lasting bonds with their mates. Every day, male and female seahorses perform elaborate courtship displays that involve circling each other, changing colour, and even holding tails. That’s decidedly civilized for a fish.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Conservation Council.

Parrot Fish
Seahorse
Clownfish

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Dive In And Reeflect

June 19, 2025

Hi everyone!

The first whales of the season have been spotted, which means whale season is officially underway. If you capture any great photos, be sure to send them to ruth@lifepublishinggroup.com for a chance to have them featured in the paper.

This week, I’m hoping to watch Oceans, the new documentary by Sir David Attenborough. I’ve long admired his work and he’s been a major influence on my own career. I recently read in his book (which I highly recommend) that he actually started out as a producer at the BBC and was never intended to be a presenter at all! What I love most about his storytelling is the way he tackles complex and confronting topics with clarity and compassion, never making it feel like an attack but rather an invitation to care, which is what I always aimed to do with Ruth2Reef.

Anyway, happy reading (& watching if you are a David Attenborough fan!).

Ruth

Fast Fact: The ocean covers more than 70% of the Earth's surface.

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Editor's Note 13 June

June 12, 2025

Hi Everyone,

On Sunday evening, I attended the Combined Church Service at Whitsunday Christian College, and it was incredible to witness a variety of faiths coming together to worship and enjoy fellowship.

So often, different religions can seem fractured or opposed, when in reality, we are all worshipping one God. Even those who do not follow the Christian Bible often live by similar values and morals. This shared experience of life could unite us, but sadly, that is not always the case.

Fortunately, here in the Whitsundays, we have many thriving church communities that provide strong support networks for numerous residents.

This was evident during the service on Sunday evening when nearly 200 people gathered to celebrate Pentecost.

For many years, I have lived by Christian values, though I only attend regular services when my mum visits for six months of the year. During that time, I love connecting with the friendly faces at the churches we attend each Sunday.

For me, attending a church service is about giving thanks for my life, expressing gratitude, and carving out a moment to be still. Each week, I learn something new, and often the sermon’s message resonates with a challenge I’m facing. This gives me the chance to reflect, understand, process, and forgive.

To those who think church is only for the deeply religious folk in our community — those who pray every day — don’t worry! You can still walk through the door without your head bursting into flames!

Everyone is welcome. You would be too! Why not find your local Church and give it a try one week?

Whether you are religious or not, practicing or not, spiritual connection is something we can all enjoy daily by pausing and taking time to look within.

— Rach

Quote of the Week: “Be still, and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10)

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Did you know?

June 12, 2025

If you can’t make it to the Mayor’s Charity ball this year, you can still show your support by purchasing online fundraising tickets for a chance to win an amazing Island Escape for two!

Valued at over $2000, the prize includes two nights’ accommodation on Daydream Island, a guided snorkel tour, a private dinner experience, a pamper spa package and an Ocean rafting adventure!

Entries are just $25, and every ticket is a donation to BMA CQ Rescue, the Bowen Community Centre and the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre.

Better still, enter the competition and attend the ball – limited tickets are still available!

For more information, head to proserpineentertainmentcentre.com.au

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A Minute With The Mayor Ry Collins

June 19, 2025

One of the best parts of this job is seeing firsthand how passionate our Whitsunday community is about the places we love—and Dingo Beach is no exception.

When the swimming enclosure at Dingo Beach was damaged during Cyclone Kirrily in early 2024, it sparked a wave of concern from residents and visitors alike.

For many, this enclosure isn’t just a safety feature—it’s part of the local way of life. Families swim there, visitors cool off there and it is part of what makes Dingo Beach such a special place.

That’s why Councillors made a deliberate decision to pause and listen before acting.

We asked the community what they wanted—and they told us, loud and clear. More than 600 submissions were received as part of the consultation process, and the overwhelming response was simple: bring it back.

I’m proud to say that Council has made that happen. At our May monthly meeting we’ve endorsed the permanent refurbishment of the existing enclosure, with 22 structural posts to be replaced.

This approach not only honours the community’s clear preference but also delivers a practical and cost-effective outcome.

This isn’t just about infrastructure—it’s about listening, acting, and backing our coastal lifestyle. I truly believe this is a long-term investment in community wellbeing, safety, and the unique identity of Dingo Beach.

It’s also a great example of Council working in partnership with our community to deliver what matters most to locals and build a better Whitsundays.

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Powering Up Regional Business: 2025 Whitsunday Regional Conference program announced

June 12, 2025

The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry has today released the full program for the 2025 Whitsunday Business Conference — a flagship event designed to inspire, inform, and connect the region’s business leaders, operators, and entrepreneurs.

Held as a full-day conference in Cannonvale, the program showcases an impressive lineup of keynote speakers, industry panels, practical sessions, and networking opportunities tailored to the needs of the Whitsunday business community.

Mayor Ry Collins will officially open the event, including a major announcement confirming Whitsunday Regional Council’s formal commitment as a Small Business Friendly Council, reinforcing the region’s dedication to creating a more supportive environment for local enterprise.

Leading the day’s discussions is acclaimed business coach Judy Porter from Shiift, delivering the keynote address Get Out of Your Own Way — a call to action for business owners and leaders to step into their potential and drive purposeful growth.

A feature panel discussion, Working Better Together – From Vision to Impact, will bring together regional leaders to explore how collaboration is delivering real outcomes in infrastructure, housing, investment, and community development. Panellists include Elizabeth Hackett (Whitsunday Skyway), Terry Archer (Whitsunday Sailing Club), Justin Butler (Club Whitsunday), and Carol Norris (Greater Whitsunday Communities).

A networking segment will follow — Get Connected: Who’s Here to Help Your Business? — that will provide businesses with direct access to regional agencies and programs offering growth and support solutions.

Throughout the day, attendees will participate in four streams of concurrent sessions covering essential topics:

Round One

Thriving Leadership with Judy Porter/Shiift
Business & Community: Partnering for Positive Impact case studies with Rebecca Woods/Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, Annika and Ian Thomson/Ocean Crusaders, and Coutrney Quinn-McCrabe/Tassal and Libby Edge/Eco Barge.
From Solo to Scalable: Building a business that works with you, with Corrina Lindby/The Answer is Yes and Kate Tullett/Th3rd Dimension Media
Round Two

Ask An Expert: Money Matters for Modern Business with Gus Walsgott/Rural Financial Counselling Service, Kim Jamieson/APW, Justin Butler/Eclipse Financial Planning, Luke Sheppard/Bendigo Bank Business, Doug O’Connor/Option Insurance Brokers, and Fiona Erquiaga/Smooth Sailing Finance Consulting
International Recruitment & Migration: Driving Business and Regional Growth with Alana Hopkins, Workforce Abundance
Unlocking Motivation: Leading with Purpose and Impact with Brian Ward/BRIAN8
The Power of Storytelling: Using Personal Branding to Grow Your Business with Rachael Smith/Mackay and Whitsunday Life
Round Three

Ask An Expert: Local Marketing That Works with Melanie Laas/EMME Influence, Courtney Casey/Southern Cross Austereo, and Trish Jandt/Mackay and Whitsunday Life
Tendering: Top Ten Tips with Ros Weche/Queensland Department of State Development and Infrastructure
The Dying Art of Customer Service: 12 Rules for Success with Rick Brown
Ask An Expert: Smarter People Management for Small Business with Mark Lipkin/Airlie Group
Round Four

Leveraging AI and VR for Business Innovation and Social Impact with Simon Lowe/People Tech Revolution and Rachel Cliffe/Telstra Regional Australia
Future Skills, Regional Career Pipeline with Georgia Lavers/Greater Whitsunday Regional Jobs Committee
Ask An Expert: Finding Support Before You Need It with Cassandra Walsh/My Pathway
A networking segment titled Get Connected: Who’s Here to Help Your Business? will provide businesses with direct access to regional agencies and programs offering growth and support solutions.

The conference will close with an energising plenary, Power Up: What’s Next for Your Business?, a motivational finale focused on next steps and sustaining business momentum.

The 2025 Whitsunday Business Conference promises to be an unmissable event for anyone seeking practical knowledge, strategic insight, and meaningful business connections.

Conference Details

What: The 2025 Whitsunday Business Conference

When: 9am-5pm Thursday 28 August 2025

Where: TAFE Queensland Whitsunday campus, Cannonvale

Registration: Tickets can be shared within your team, allowing you attend what you can. Tickets include morning and afternoon tea, and lunch. Early bird registrations close 30 June, starting from $79: https://www.whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au/whitsundays-business-conference/

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A Marriage Made in Heaven

June 12, 2025

Whitsundays Weddings Kicks Off New Era with Successful Meet & Greet

The Whitsundays' stunning azure waters and lush landscapes have long set the scene for dream weddings. Now, Weddings Whitsundays, a go-to resource for planning and promoting the region's weddings , has officially merged with the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce & Industry. This ‘marriage made in heaven’ creates a unified platform , promising unparalleled benefits directly to local wedding businesses.

This exciting transition was celebrated last Thursday at the first Meet & Greet under the new structure, gathering 30 enthusiastic attendees. A key highlight was the announcement of the 2025/26 membership fee dropping to just $299 per business , granting full access to the Chamber's facilities and benefits. Access to the Chamber's diverse resources is truly one of the most beneficial parts of this new structure.

As the Weddings Whitsundays Liaison, I manage day-to-day activities and am your main contact. I confirmed plans for an Advisory Committee (with 8 nominations received), set to guide our strategy from July. A comprehensive marketing plan will follow , including enhanced exposure options. We're also exploring a new website design and actively reactivating our social channels, encouraging members to share their content. This is more than a membership; it's an investment in a collaborative future, and I'm thrilled to have you on board.

Contributed with thanks to Cait Fleming Whitsunday Weddings Liaison.

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The Boathouse Apartments

June 12, 2025

Effortless Luxury in the Heart of Airlie Beach

For those seeking the perfect balance between coastal luxury and convenience, The Boathouse Apartments stands out as Airlie Beach’s premier holiday address. Located right on the waterfront at the exclusive Port of Airlie Marina, this boutique collection of spacious two- and three-bedroom apartments delivers an unforgettable Whitsundays experience—tailored for families, friends, and couples who appreciate space, comfort and style.

Just a flat five-minute walk to the town centre, lagoon, dining precinct and ferry terminal, The Boathouse makes it effortless to explore everything Airlie Beach has to offer—from boutique shopping and café culture to island day trips and reef adventures. Yet, the property’s peaceful location on the marina’s edge means guests can retreat from the buzz whenever they choose.

Designed for relaxed living, each apartment offers open-plan spaces, full kitchens, and generous balconies with sweeping views of the Coral Sea or marina—ideal for morning coffees and sunset drinks alike. Whether you're travelling as a couple, a group of friends, or a multigenerational family, you'll find room to connect and unwind.

On-site, guests enjoy access to a large swimming pool, heated spa, full-size tennis court (the only one in town), and shaded BBQ pavilions—all surrounded by lush tropical gardens that echo the laid-back vibe of the Whitsundays.

The Boathouse Apartments has built a reputation for personalised service and consistently ranks as one of Queensland’s most-loved stays. By booking direct, guests enjoy not only the best rates but also the benefit of tailored local recommendations from a team that genuinely cares.

For a stay defined by coastal ease, stylish comfort, and proximity to everything that makes the Whitsundays iconic, The Boathouse Apartments is the smart choice. Whether you’re planning a short getaway or a long escape, this is where unforgettable memories are made.

Introducing Cala 14 – by Paradise Private Collection

Backed by the trusted team behind The Boathouse Apartments, Paradise Private Collection has launched with the exclusive management of Cala 14—a luxury three-bedroom holiday residence at The Cove, Airlie Beach. This beautifully appointed home offers guests a more private and spacious alternative, perfect for families, friends or couples seeking elevated comfort in a prestigious setting.

For those who love the quality and service of The Boathouse but want the added seclusion of a private residence, Cala 14 by Paradise Private Collection delivers the best of both worlds.

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Eco Barge Needs You

June 12, 2025

Join the Crew Caring for Our Coast

Have you recently made the move to paradise and are looking for a meaningful way to give back to the community while protecting the local marine environment?

Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc. is calling on the Whitsunday community, including new arrivals, long-time locals and especially retirees with time and skills to offer, to join its growing team of dedicated volunteers. The organisation is currently seeking Core Crew Project Liaisons to help lead and support the delivery of key environmental programs at Eco HQ.

Each project requires a committed liaison officer who will be trained and supported in their role to coordinate volunteer activities and ensure each program runs smoothly and effectively.

Founder Libby Edge shared:

“I’m honestly feeling a bit overwhelmed—in the best possible way—with everything we’re achieving. From debris removal to recycling and creating circular economy solutions, Eco Barge is thriving. But we need your help to keep up with the demand and to stay productive and impactful.”

Eco Barge is proudly volunteer powered. With limited funding for staff, the organisation depends on community involvement to deliver its programs. With an influx of new residents to Airlie Beach and surrounds, Eco Barge believes there is a wealth of experience, time and heart ready to be channelled into something that makes a difference.

Long-time volunteer Shelagh Ford said contributing to Eco Barge has been one of the most rewarding experiences of her life.

“I moved here for the beauty and to be closer to my family, but it was through Eco Barge that I truly connected with the heart of this place. Every cleanup, every recycled item—it all feels like I’m giving back to something that gives us so much. And the friendships I’ve made along the way have been an unexpected gift.”

Volunteer opportunities include:

🐢Island clean-up trips

🐢Count and sort days

🐢Marine debris recycling shed operations

🐢Jewellery and art creation

🐢Native plant and habitat work with the Green Team

🐢Carpentry

Eco Barge simply asks for a regular commitment on days that suit each volunteer. In return, participants become part of a local initiative that’s making a tangible, lasting difference to the marine life and environment of the Whitsundays.

Come on board. Be part of the solution. Help protect paradise.

To express interest or learn more, visit www.ecobargecleanseas.org.au, or email Libby Edge directly at libby@ecobarge.org.au with details of the project you’d like to help lead.

Those interested in joining as a regular volunteer can also register via the website.

Eco Barge Volunteers at a turtle release early this year.

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More Than Just A Bar

June 12, 2025

Airlie Beach’s Newest Bar Opens

A fresh new face has joined the Airlie Beach hospitality scene, and it’s already winning hearts with its local charm, creative flair, and laid-back vibe.

Located at the quieter end of town, the newly opened venue has become an hit with locals and visitors alike thanks to its welcoming atmosphere, thoughtful details, and entertainment that’s unlike anything else in the area.

Owners Tommy and Dylan Gallagher and Blake Gee said they were looking for a new business venture, and from their shared love of golf and the desire to create something new for Airlie Beach, Mulligans was born.

Drawing inspiration from Japan, and the various activities available at similar venues, they combined an indoor golf simulator, pool tables and dart boards to create the laid back but fun environment.

Mulligans has been open for four weeks and the response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive.

“We’ve had locals literally shaking our hands saying thank you, not just for the entertainment, but for the small touches like deodorant and tampons in the bathrooms,” Tommy said.

“It’s things like that that show we’ve put thought into creating a place people feel comfortable in.”

With a strong local team the venue is proud to be fully locally owned and operated.

For June the venue has introduced a weekly event like the Monday night long drive competition, with a new TaylorMade Qi10 driver up for grabs), and with the everchanging and adapting food menu, Mulligans is constantly evolving.

Open seven days a week from 10am to 10pm, the venue aims for a more relaxed, daytime-friendly atmosphere rather than a late-night party spot.

“We want people to know that it's a nice place to come and drink, it has a nice atmosphere, chill environment, no loud volume and it's not rowdy.”

Did You Know?
At Mulligans they have received praise from Irish travellers, saying the best Guiness outside of Ireland is from Mulligans Airlie Beach.

Marlee Lawley, Blake Gee, Tommy and Dylan Gallagher. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Hope, Home And A Fresh Start

June 13, 2025

Beneath the postcard-perfect skies of our tropical region lies a confronting truth: many locals still have no place to call home. In the Whitsunday region, Whitsunday Housing Company Ltd (WHCL) is working to rewrite that narrative, by providing vital housing support and championing long-term solutions to ensure every individual has a safe, secure place to live.

Established in 2007, WHCL is a registered charity and not-for-profit community housing provider. The organisation delivers long-term, crisis, and transitional accommodation to people in need.

“Our goal is to advocate for, lobby and support the housing needs of the Whitsunday region,” says Chief Operating Officer Joanne Moynihan.

Since joining WHCL in 2014, Ms Moynihan has led the organisation alongside a dedicated volunteer board, striving to support those most affected by housing insecurity.

WHCL helps people on low incomes or experiencing hardship access affordable, stable, and appropriate housing. As the region’s Specialist Homelessness Service provider, the organisation also offers emergency accommodation, assistance for tenants in rental arrears, and support to secure long-term housing.

“In the past 12 months alone, we have supported over 400 individuals and families experiencing or at risk of homelessness in Cannonvale, Proserpine, Bowen and Collinsville,” Ms Moynihan says.

Ms Moynihan highlights the importance of community housing in regional areas like the Whitsundays, where rental prices and housing shortages are increasing pressure on vulnerable residents.

“Community housing plays a critical role in regional areas like the Whitsundays, where rising rental costs and a shortage of affordable housing options have led to increasing demand for homelessness support,” she explains.

“It supports people to rebuild their lives, maintain employment, keep children in school and stay connected to their communities.”

A key current initiative is the Tiny Homes Project, which addresses the rising homelessness among single women over 55 – Australia’s fastest-growing demographic in need. Thanks to the advocacy of Cr Jan Clifford, council donated land for the project's first site.

Fundraising efforts led by Sandy Clark, along with contributions from local businesses, volunteers, and Whitsunday Company Housing have raised over $730,000. Despite various setbacks, construction on the project will continue, but donations are still urgently needed due to rising costs.

“As a not-for-profit charity, we rely heavily on the generosity of the community,” says Moynihan.

“Having the community respond to calls for donations to support large and small endeavours is always gratefully appreciated.”

To learn more about WHCL or contribute, visit https://whcl.com.au or email admin@whcl.com.au

Your support could change a life, and give someone a place to call home. We’re not just building tiny homes, we’re building a community.

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Swanee Joins Tribute Titans For Two Epic Nights At Airlie Beach Hotel

June 12, 2025

Joining the Cold Chisel and Midnight Oil Tribute at the Airlie Beach Hotel is none other than John Swan Swanee.

Swanee is Jimmy Barnes’ older brother but is also a well-known performer in his own right. He has hits like ‘If I Were a Carpenter’ and ‘Lady What’s Your Name?’ but what led him to creating these hit songs.

Born in Glasgow, Scotland, in 1952, John Archibold Dixon Swan migrated to Australia with his family at the age of nine, settling in the working-class suburb of Elizabeth in Adelaide. His path to music began early, with a drum kit in hand and a hunger to express himself through rhythm and sound. By the age of 14, he was already playing in professional bands. At 17, he enlisted in the Australian Army but the call of music was too strong to ignore.

In the 1970s, Swanee became a fixture in Adelaide’s thriving music scene. He joined several bands, including the legendary Fraternity, where he took over lead vocals after his younger brother, Jimmy Barnes, moved on to form Cold Chisel. Swanee's powerful voice and dynamic stage presence set him apart, and by the late '70s, he launched a solo career that would take him to national fame.

His breakthrough came in 1981 with a soulful cover of  ‘If I Were a Carpenter’ climbed to No. 5 on the national charts and the success of that single led to the 1982 album ‘This Time It’s Different’, featuring enduring hits such as ‘Temporary Heartache’ and ‘Lady What’s Your Name’. Swanee’s voice is gritty, passionate, and unmistakably authentic and it resonated with Australian audiences, making him a household name.

But Swanee's story didn’t stop at rock stardom. In 1987, he joined the all-star band The Party Boys, stepping in as lead singer after the departure of Rose Tattoo’s Angry Anderson. The band were looking for a new singer and they had to have “the best Rock ‘n’ Roll voice in the country”.

Throughout his career, Swanee has released multiple albums, performed on stages big and small, and remained an enduring figure in the Australian music scene. Yet his greatest achievements may lie in the work he does away from the spotlight.

In 2015, Swanee was named South Australia’s Senior Australian of the Year, in recognition of his dedication to social causes. Two years later, in 2017 he was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for services to music and charity.  He later joined forces with war veteran Rob Pickersgill to create the Warrior Music Project, a program that uses music to support the wellbeing of military veterans, police officers, and first responders.

He has used his profile to support the Salvation Army, particularly focusing on homelessness and rehabilitation. He co-founded the Autism Music Fund, combining his passion for music with a commitment to improving lives, and is an advocate for ovarian cancer awareness.

Today, Swanee continues to tour, record, and give back, and now he is coming to the Airlie Beach Hotel.

Swanee will be joining Gold Chisel and The Australian Midnight Oil Show in what will be an amazing show.

The Australian Midnight Oil Show deliver all the classics including ‘Power and the Passion’, ‘US Forces’, ‘Dreamworld’, ‘King of the Mountain’, ‘Forgotten Years’, ‘Beds are Burning’, ‘Blue Sky Mine’ and more.

Swanee will be performing his own hits and also jumping on stage with Gold Chisel to belt out a couple Cold Chisel hits.

The Gold Chisel and The Midnight Oil Show have been to the Airlie Beach Hotel before and they always provide an epic show, this show will be especially amazing due to Swanee’s special performance.

WHAT: Gold Chisel & The Australian Midnight Oil Show ft. Swanee
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Saturday 21st June & Sunday 22nd June (2pm – 5.30pm)

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Two Years of Trusted Car Care

June 12, 2025

Precision Auto Marks Milestone

Celebrating their second successful year as a growing business who listens to their customer needs, Precision Auto Service is a family run business servicing the local population with care and efficiency.

The mechanics at your local Precision Auto workshop can provide assistance with a wide range of automotive needs. They service and repair vehicles in  Cannonvale, Airlie Beach and surrounding areas. From general repairs to engine diagnostics and replacement, Precision auto is the one-stop shop for all car maintenance services. The highly skilled team of Airlie Beach mechanics are qualified to carry out all types of vehicle repairs, including brake servicing, clutch replacement, timing belt replacement, tune up, general servicing, and more.

Precision Auto also offer safety certificates in Cannonvale/Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays. Precision mechanics are experienced at identifying any car issues your car may be having. The team of mechanics use the latest diagnostic tools and modern servicing equipment to identify problems and undertake repairs on your vehicle.

In Airlie Beach, Electric Bike and Scooter Repairs are incorporated and are done within the workshop offering all repairs and maintenance of E-Scooter and E-Bikes.

If its on the road with a motor they can fix it.

Precision Auto offer a variety of other services including:

  • General car servicing
  • Logbook car servicing
  • Car repairs Safety / roadworthy certificates
  • Brakes
  • Steering
  • Suspension
  • Clutches
  • Diagnostics
  • Exhausts
  • Air condition service & repair
  • Auto Electrical Repairs & Installations
  • Euro and Prestige Vehicle specialists
  • E- Bike and E-Scooter repairs

Manager of Precision Auto Matt Battams. Photo supplied

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Virus Protection Tips

June 12, 2025

With the developing technology of Ai, viruses and scams are getting smarter and anyone can fall victim, especially if you're not used to navigating the web.

First, the best way to avoid viruses is to use a trusted antivirus software and keep it up to date. Most programs run quietly in the background and automatically scan for threats.

Be cautious of emails or pop-up messages asking you to click links or share personal information. If something seems off, it probably is.

Avoid downloading unknown programs, and keep your computer’s system updates current.

If you’re ever unsure or think your computer might already have a virus, it’s worth getting it checked professionally. Dateline Computers can remove viruses, install protection, and help you stay secure.

Keep your laptop or PC virus free by visiting Dateline Computers. Stock image

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