The wreckage at Rose Bay is to be cleared by an out-of-town contractor this week after months of local volunteer action.

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The announcement of a government-funded removal of boat debris strewn across the Whitsundays by Ex-tropical Cyclone Koji caused controversy last week, with locals calling for transparency as to why local towing companies were not consulted by Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) to take away the vessels.  

When out-of-town corporation Clayton’s Towing announced they had been engaged to remove the vessel 7 Wonders from where it had been decaying on Bowen’s Rose Bay, locals sparked into conversation, asking the question: Why was a local business not called upon to take care of the refuse?  

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Darren Foster from Whitsunday Moorings & Marine Construction explained his frustration.  

“During the last cyclones, the locals got a lot of work.” He said.  

“Debbie, Louie, you know, all the big ones, the locals worked together. We got the job done. And it's just very unusual that, for whatever reason, there was no consultation with any of the local providers at all.”

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“Generally, there's two ways that tenders go out. One, they go out for public tender, and it's just listed on a public tender site. When the tenders go out, we put in a price, and depending on whether or not we're competitive, we get it. In this case though, it appears that itwent out to a very closed group of tenders.

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“There are local companies perfectly capable of undertaking the lifting and removal of those wrecks. After an event like [Ex-tropical Cyclone Koji], we all suffer financially because of the loss of tourists in the area. And when there's less tourists in the area, our clients have got less money to pay us, so we suffer as well.  

“MDive, the company that have secured a lot of the work, are a Gladstone based company, who are looking to establish themselves here in the Whitsunday. We don’t hold any problem with that. However, a fair playing field would be a nice place to start.”

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David suggested this wasn’t the first time local companies had lost out on work within the region.  

“I personally assisted local senior parks rangers to develop the terms of reference to allow the Great Barrier Reef Marine Parks Authority to release the maintenance of the Whitsundays Public Moorings to private companies for tender. 

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“Not once in 16 years has a local company won that tender. Despite the fact that the local tender was cheaper and had very high experience in moorings repairs and maintenance.”

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David Edge from David Edge Marine Contracting added to the conversation, calling on the government to explain the salvage decision.  

“Overlooking local operators has happened in the past with MSQ, [for example] a vessel lodged in the mud at Cannonvale a few years ago, where MSQ gave the job to a Townsville company to salvage at a cost of $1.7 million with no tender issues, which we were more than qualified to perform,” he alleged.

“Before the state became involved, we quoted the vessel’s owner $90,000 to float the vessel.”

At the time of print we are waiting for a comment from MSQ.

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Abandoned and left to rust. Residents say this vehicle is just one example of ongoing dumping issues at Adelaide Point Boat Ramp. Photo credit: Kari Ravizza

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A growing pattern of holiday dumping has left residents at their wits’ end after yet another abandoned vehicle was left at Adelaide Point Boat Ramp, just south of Bowen town centre.

Over the long Easter weekend, residents woke to find that instead of chocolate eggs, someone had dumped an abandoned, rusted fibreglass boat at the ramp, stripped of parts and filled with old, worn-out tyres.

"I was very disappointed to discover somebody had dumped a boat and old tyres at the creek landing during the night - this is vandalism,” expressed Adelaide Terrace resident, Lyndy McCathie.

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An eyesore to say the least, the vessel joins another abandoned vehicle dumped over the Christmas and New Year holiday period, which, despite being reported to authorities, remains at the boat ramp.

Jamie Volker, who has lived on Adelaide Terrace for several years, said he’s frustrated by the ongoing issue and believes installing an additional skip bin could help curb the amount of rubbish being left along the road, noting that some people travel from Bowen and Airlie Beach to dump waste instead of taking it to the tip.

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“Very little action has been taken and we’re frustrated and annoyed,” said Mr Volker.

“I’ve personally cleaned up rubbish that has been dumped at the end of Adelaide Point Road as well as the boat ramp several times and all this illegal dumping makes our little community look bad.”

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Concerns have also been raised regarding the potential environmental impact, with dumping materials such as tyres and fiberglass posing risks to local waterways and marine life.  

Whitsunday Regional Council confirmed they’re aware of the abandoned vehicle, and Council’s Local Laws Officers conducted two official inspections on both Friday, 10 April and Monday 13 April. A request has since been made for a towing contractor to remove the vehicle to Whitsunday Regional Council’s impound yard.

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“Once a vehicle or vessel is deemed abandoned, Council coordinates removal to the impound facility where it remains until they are either reclaimed by the owner or disposed of in accordance with Council’s Abandoned Vehicle Auction process,” said a Whitsunday Regional Council spokesperson.

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“At this stage, aside from the vehicle, there is no evidence of unlawful dumping occurring in the area. Council encourages the community to report any suspected illegal dumping as soon as possible so action can be taken promptly.”

Residents are urging those responsible to be held accountable and are calling for stronger action to prevent further dumping at the popular local spot.

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Image from Pexels

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The Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) has given approval for another set of traffic lights in Cannonvale, 500 metres from where the last set was installed on Shute Harbour Road near Whitsunday Plaza. Councillor Clay Bauman took to Facebook this week, reigniting the traffic light vs roundabout debate.  

“We all know traffic volumes have increased as our region continues to grow. The question now is whether the solutions being delivered are the right ones for long term safety, flow and liveability.”

A Council spokesperson stated that ultimately this is a TMR decision although the topic will come before Council for debate and a vote in the coming weeks.

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A simple act of kindness has highlighted the quiet generosity that exists within the local community, after a Jubilee Pocket woman was helped home by a stranger when she needed it most.

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Jacqueline Brooks found herself stranded at the Friendly Grocer in Jubilee Pocket with a flat phone and no way to organise transport. It was then that a kind-hearted woman stepped in, offering her a lift home without hesitation.

Despite the stressful situation, Jacqueline said the woman’s willingness to help ensured she made it home safely.

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“I haven’t been able to retrieve her contact information. If you are this beautiful woman, I would just like to say thank you so much,” she said.

The thoughtful gesture has left a lasting impression, serving as a reminder of the strength of community spirit in the region.  

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Though the woman remains anonymous, her actions speak volumes, offering help not for recognition, but simply out of kindness.

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Mayor Williamson, Carmel Baretta, and Leo Baretta.

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Hundreds of community members gathered in Mackay’s city centre on Saturday for the official unveiling of three life-sized bronze statues honouring Maltese pioneers who helped shape the region’s history.

The statues of Emmanuel Camilleri, Sam Bezzina and John Vassallo now stand proudly on the corner of Wood and Victoria streets – a location long known locally as “Maltese Corner”, where migrant businessmen would regularly gather to talk, support one another and build their futures in Mackay.

The project, delivered by the Maltese Corner Fundraising Group Inc, recreates a historic photograph capturing the men meeting at the site, symbolising the spirit of collaboration that helped generations of migrants establish themselves in the region.

On Friday, 17^th April, a day prior to the official unveiling, Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson said the statues recognise the enduring contribution of Maltese migrants to the region’s identity and economy.

“Tomorrow we are unveiling three magnificent statues here on the corner of Victoria and Wood Streets,” he said ahead of the event.

“This particular corner was where the Maltese guys sat around, just like a little piazza in Malta. They sat here waiting for the banks to open – probably waiting for the pub to open as well – while their wives went shopping and they did their business.”

Mayor Williamson said the tribute reflected Mackay’s long-standing connection with Maltese settlement.

“Mackay is recognised as the heart of Maltese settlement in Australia,” he said.

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“The Maltese have done a fantastic job in our community for decades and decades, and this is a tribute to those who helped build our sugar industry and our region.”

The project has been largely community-funded, with the Maltese Association raising more than $250,000 towards the statues, supported by about $45,000 in council grants.

For Carmel Baretta, president of the Maltese Corner Fundraising Group, the unveiling marks a rather emotional sentiment.

“In 2001, a friend and I published a book on the Maltese pioneers of Mackay,” Ms Baretta said.

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“While we were working on that book, I was aware of Maltese Corner and asked a photographer to quietly capture a photograph of the men meeting here because they gathered regularly.”

That image later became the inspiration for the statues.

Ms Baretta said the corner held significant historical meaning for the community.

“The greatest significance is that these people helped others become established,” she said.

“And it wasn’t only Maltese helping Maltese,” Ms Baretta said.

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“Some Italians were involved, some returned soldiers were helped, and some local people from Mackay as well.”

The initiative also honours the legacy of the Mosta Building Society, established in 1966 as a result of the cooperative financial support that began on the corner.

The statues themselves were created by local sculptor Kay Payton, chosen after extensive research into bronze works across North Queensland.

“We decided Kay Payton was the ideal person, primarily because she was local and because she is so gifted,” Ms Baretta said.

“She was just absolutely fantastic to work with.”

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With the statues now permanently installed, organisers hope the site will encourage residents and visitors alike to pause, reflect and learn more about the community stories that helped build Mackay.

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With ANZAC Day approaching, locals gathered at Proserpine Cemetery on Saturday 18^th April to pay tribute to the nearly 400 service men and women laid to rest there; a local tradition organised by Lyn Burke which is now in its eleventh year.  

The event saw flags placed beside the graves of veterans, including Boer War veterans, Gallipoli survivors, Rats of Tobruk, Prisoners of War, Commandos & many more.

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Aquarium Coral Photo supplied

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Flying under the radar is a little-known fishery that operates within one of the world’s most iconic ecosystems: coral harvesting. 

Many Australians would be surprised to learn that the Great Barrier Reef supports the country’s largest coral fishery. Each year, up to 190 tonnes of coral are removed from the Reef, much of it destined for the domestic and international aquarium trade. Among these are some of the Reef’s most unique and visually striking species—highly prized, yet ecologically vital. 

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The Great Barrier Reef is often celebrated for its beauty and biodiversity, but it is also an ecosystem under immense stress. Climate change has driven increasingly frequent and severe mass bleaching events, while cyclones and flooding have compounded the damage. Together, these disturbances have contributed to some of the most significant declines in coral cover ever recorded. 

Against this backdrop, the harvesting of live coral raises difficult questions. Many of the same species targeted by the Queensland Coral Fishery are those already vulnerable to bleaching and mortality. Removing healthy corals from the ecosystem can reduce the Reef’s natural capacity to recover from disturbances, potentially undermining broader conservation and restoration efforts. 

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This creates an apparent contradiction. Governments have invested heavily in protecting and restoring the Reef, funding initiatives aimed at improving water quality, supporting coral regrowth, and enhancing resilience. Yet, at the same time, a regulated industry continues to extract coral from the wild. 

To be clear, the fishery does not operate without oversight. Strict quotas, spatial zoning, and licensing conditions are in place to manage harvesting. Exceeding quotas or collecting coral from protected “green zones” can result in significant penalties. 

Enforcement, however, remains an ongoing challenge. In 2016, the first prosecution for illegal coral harvesting since the 2003 rezoning plan occurred in Gladstone, where divers were caught collecting coral in a no-take zone. Since then, there have been more than 20 prosecutions linked to illegal coral collection within the marine park, many involving commercial operators. 

Such incidents raise concerns about the industry’s “social licence”—the level of public trust and acceptance it holds. Increasingly, reef tourism operators, scientists, and environmental groups are calling for tighter restrictions, with some advocating for a complete ban on wild coral harvesting. 

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Despite this, the fishery continues. In 2024, it received federal approval to operate for another three years. Authorities have indicated that a revised ecological risk assessment and updated harvest strategy will be completed by 2026, potentially shaping the industry’s future.

That future may lie beyond the Reef itself. Aquaculture—growing coral in controlled tank environments—has long been promoted as a sustainable alternative. It offers the potential to supply the aquarium trade without removing corals from the wild, easing pressure on an already stressed ecosystem.

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As the Great Barrier Reef faces an uncertain future, so does coral harvesting. For many, the answer is clear: the Reef’s corals are far more valuable alive, thriving in their natural habitat, than they are as commodities.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Conservation Council

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Whales of the Whitsundays team celebrating when the Whitsundays was formally recognised as a Whale Heritage Site. Photo supplied

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There are a lot of things that make the Whitsundays special. Beautiful islands, the great barrier reef, a wonderful community. But in addition to all of that – this region has special ecological features that the rest of the country can look upon with envy. Every year, the Whitsundays serves as a breeding ground and cohabitation spot for one of planet earths most magnificent creatures: the whale.  

A few years ago, a huge effort was put forward by the Whitsunday Conservation Council and Whale of the Whitsundays to make the area a Whale Heritage Area – resulting in a resounding success.  

This was particularly special because the Whitsundays was the first whale heritage site located in a UNESCO world heritage area and now features a special whale protection area zone.

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“It’s a major birthing zone for humpbacks. A lot of locals don’t realise how many humpbacks visit the area, let alone how significant the East coast population is,” said Kellie Leonard, Master Reef Guide and Whale of the Whitsundays member.  

Every year humpback whales migrate from the Antarctic to the warm water of the Great Barrier Reef – this is due to take place in just a few weeks.  

In 2009, researchers discovered that whales gave birth right here in the Whitsundays. The Whitsundays is proven to be a perfect location for breeding thanks to deep troughs close to shallow reef, where whales can give birth and then move their calves to shallow water.  In shallow water there is less chance of predator attack from below and the mother can support the calf near the surface so it can breathe. 

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The establishment of thriving breeding ground is incredible for a species that were almost wiped out decades ago due to mass illegal whale culling.  

“They recovered amazingly from the whaling in the 60s. Their comeback is quite a remarkable story,” shared Ms Leonard.

Another fascinating and beautiful aspect of whales and whale research, is whale’s songs.  

The local organisations in collaboration with Queensland University has carried out significant research into one of nature’s most interesting phenomena.

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“We have been recoding humpback whale songs in the Whitsundays during the past two whale seasons. The songs are submitted to the University of Queensland, specifically the Centre for Marine Science,” added Ms Leonard.

With the help of the director – Professor Michael Noad and PhD student Genevieve Williams, the research has provided incredible findings.

“The songs of these whales are one of the most complex acoustic displays of any animal known. Social sounds are made by all whales; however only male humpback whales sing songs.”

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The songs even have a structure.  

“There are seven individual populations of humpback whales in the southern hemisphere. The Australian East Coast humpback whales are a single population. Amazingly, all males in one population sing the same song.”

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Humpbacks can be located based on the content of their song. They listen to each other’s song and incorporate each other’s evolutions as part of their social learning.

Songs are recorded through a hydrophone – an underwater microphone connected to an amplifier and recording device. Humpback whales can be recorded from 5 to 10 kilometres away.

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Kellie has personally recorded whale song off the coast of Hamilton Island and posted it to Facebook.

“Often, I’m in the water with a hydrophone. I can’t see them, but I know they’re there.”

Whale research and sighting may seem reserved for experts, however, Whale of the Whitsundays are actively urging the broader community to get involved.  

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“There is an app called Eye of the Reef. All you need to do is upload photos and videos of sightings you have.”

Whale of the Whitsundays will be hosting an information night on the 19^th May at the Whitsunday Sailing Club at 6.30pm.  

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WHAT: Whitsunday Whale Heritage Area Information Night

WHEN: 19^th May, 6.30pm

WHERE: Whitsunday Sailing Club

Troy Liesch is a Property Specialist with the Taylors Team, bringing many years of experience in the sale of rural and residential property across Central Queensland and the Whitsundays region.

With a strong background in both lifestyle and acreage markets, Troy offers a grounded, practical approach to real estate, supported by extensive local knowledge and a deep understanding of what drives successful property outcomes in regional Queensland. His experience allows him to confidently guide clients through every stage of the selling process, from appraisal through to settlement.

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Now part of the Taylors Team, Troy continues to build on his reputation for professionalism, reliability, and commitment to achieving the best possible results for his clients.

Outside of real estate, Troy is firmly rooted in the Whitsundays community, where he lives with his wife and their three children. Family life plays a central role for him, and he enjoys spending his time supporting his children’s sporting activities, attending dance events, and socialising with friends and neighbours throughout the region.

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For enquiries or property advice, Troy can be contacted on 0428 646 599 or via email at troy@tpsre.com.au.

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Dan has been involved in the property industry all his working life.

His early years were spent in the Lands Department (now the Department of Natural Resources) carrying out rental assessment valuations for Crown Land in various centres of Queensland including Rockhampton, Hughenden, Emerald, Longreach, Winton, Cloncurry and Mackay.

During that time, he became a Registered Rural and Urban Valuer and was promoted to the position of Assistant Land Commissioner prior to his resignation from the Government Department.

In 1984, Dan took over the management of the Valuation Department of Blacks Real Estate before setting up his own private valuation business in 2003, which operated successfully until mid 2013.

Dan and wife Kerry have lived in Mackay for over thirty years and have a son Dylan and daughter Kara.

Outside of work, Dan has an interest in most sports, particularly Rugby. He is a Life Member of Brothers Rugby Club and spent twelve years coaching the senior boys rugby team at North Mackay State High, winning several premierships.

With a wealth of experience in the property market, Dan returned to Blacks Real Estate as a Sales Consultant in August 2013.

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‍ Last Friday’s Barrier Reef Night Markets brought great energy to the Mackay City Heart, with locals enjoying a vibrant evening of handmade, unique stalls while supporting community causes. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Cadence Rooney, Belinda Rooney, Andrew Rooney and Abigail Rooney

Ella Barr, Elle Jung and Kaylah Dowson

Brock, Aliara, Tayla, Jesse, Anna-Lisa and Nigel

Veleisha, Valerie and Brianna

Paul Te Tau and Bryony Te Tau

Simon

Justin, Natalie, Paul and Chrissy

Brittany, Mikayla and Louella

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Nestled in the lush foothills of the Pioneer Valley, Finch Falls Retreat spans 13 acres of open space and native rainforest, offering a tranquil escape where families can reconnect with nature at their own pace. Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, the retreat is a sanctuary for walking, riding, or simply unwinding amidst the serene environment. Throughout the grounds, inviting seating areas provide the perfect spot to pause, relax, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

The retreat’s two-bedroom Eco Lodges are thoughtfully designed with families in mind, comfortably accommodating two adults and up to four children. Each lodge features a fully equipped kitchenette and private ensuite, ensuring every stay is convenient and relaxing. Strategically spaced throughout the retreat, each lodge includes its own private deck and undercover BBQ area, which is ideal for enjoying a morning coffee or a family dinner immersed in nature.

Beyond luxury accommodation, Finch Falls Retreat is also a haven for native wildlife. The grounds have undergone a large-scale restoration, with hundreds of native trees and plants introduced to rejuvenate the landscape. As guests wander through the retreat, they may spot an abundance of local wildlife in their natural habitat, making nature an integral part of every stay rather than just a backdrop.

Young explorers are well catered for, with play equipment thoughtfully placed throughout the retreat. Children can enjoy a mud kitchen, cubby house, and playground, while the gently flowing creek offers a safe, shallow space for splashing and exploration most of the year. For those seeking further adventures, Finch Hatton township is just minutes away, offering a playground, pump track, and access to larger natural swimming holes – so why not make it a memorable family day out!

Dining at Finch Falls Retreat is effortless and flexible. Each lodge’s kitchenette includes an induction cooktop, microwave, fridge, and Nespresso coffee machine, making it simple to prepare a relaxed breakfast, picnic-style lunch, or cosy dinner while surrounded by nature.

Finch Falls Retreat is ideally located at 564 Gorge Road, Finch Hatton, Queensland, just 8 kilometres from the town centre and 3 kilometres from the picturesque Finch Hatton Gorge. Accessible via sealed roads, the drive to the retreat takes guests through scenic farmland, rainforest, and mountain landscapes, setting the tone for a restorative stay in the heart of the Pioneer Valley.

Every element of Finch Falls Retreat, from the private Eco Lodges to the carefully restored grounds, wildlife habitats, and family-friendly amenities, has been designed to provide a whole-family experience.

Here, luxury and nature coexist, creating a serene and immersive escape where families can explore, unwind, and make lasting memories together.

finchfallsretreat.com.au

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The Whitsundays Writers Festival has been scheduled for Sunday 13 September 2026 with a one-day celebration of local authors, regional stories, and the readers who bring them to life.

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Whitsunday Marine Club, Airlie Beach, the festival promises an engaging, thought-provoking, and community-focused experience for all ages; well worth travelling for.

Festival-goers can look forward to two intimate panel discussions, exploring the journey from inspiration to publication, and the creative sparks that drive storytelling. Hear from talented local authors as they share insights, experiences, and advice for aspiring writers. The day will also feature author readings, the presentation of the Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards, and Stories by the Sea — a lively book buy-and-swap event celebrating local voices and community participation.

Stay tuned for full program details and ticket releases, and don’t miss your chance to be part of the region’s premier literary celebration.

Calling Local Authors – Expression of Interest Now Open!

Are you a published author living in the Mackay region? We’d love to hear from you!

For the 2026 Whitsundays Writers Festival, we’re inviting local authors to express interest in joining two engaging panel conversations.

Local authors can also confirm a dedicated space to sell books directly to festival attendees.

EOI deadline: 11:59pm, Saturday 28 February 2026
Complete the online form: 2026 Expression of Interest – Whitsundays Writers

Start writing! 2026 Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards

We’re excited to announce the 2026 Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards, celebrating the next generation of Australian storytelling. This year’s awards include:

Best Short Story – Adult & Under 18 divisions
First prize: $1,000 | Runner-up: $500Up to 3,000 words of unpublished creative fiction

Poetry PrizeFirst prize: $1,000 | Runner-up: $500Up to 50 lines of unpublished poetry
Judged on originality, creativity, and expressiveness

Entries open 16 March to 30 June 2026 with a $20 entry fee.

These awards are a vital investment in Australian literary culture, giving local and national writers the chance to have their work recognised and celebrated. Don’t miss the opportunity to join a community that champions creativity, imagination, and the power of storytelling.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsundays Writers Festival.

What: Whitsundays Writers Festival

When:  Sunday 13th September 2026, 10:30am-4:30pm
Where: Whitsunday Marine Club, 7 Altmann Ave, Airlie Beach

1- The festival is calling for writers across the region to get in touch. Photo supplied

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Meet Bella.

Bella is an 8-year-old Cattle Dog Cross with the biggest heart of gold.

This sweet girl has so much love to give and is looking for a home where she can truly shine. Bella adores cuddles and will happily curl up beside you for hours—she’s the perfect companion for quiet nights and cozy mornings.

One of her cutest quirks? She loves to hide her treats instead of eating them right away—saving them like little treasures for later.

Bella is recently desexed, and fully vaccinated. She’s full of love and affection and ready to find her forever home.

Bella would thrive best in a home where she can be the center of attention. Bella prefers not to share her humans with other dogs, so she’s ideally suited to an older couple or a family without other pets. She just wants all the love for herself—and she’ll give it back tenfold.

If you're looking for a loyal, affectionate companion who will adore you endlessly, Bella might just be your perfect match.

Message Lucy’s Lucky Tags and Dog Rescue on Facebook to arrange a meet and greet.

1- Bella is looking for her person – is it you? Photo source:  Lucy’s Lucky Tags and Dog Rescue

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Seven students from Sarina State High School have been recognised for their musical talent after representing their school at the State Honours Ensemble Program in Rockhampton over the weekend.

Dallas Kuhl, Sarah Bradford, Lily Kuhl, Isabella Bradford, Ebony Hetherington, Lauren McFadzen and Millie Thomsett were selected to take part in the prestigious program alongside some of Central Queensland’s best middle school–aged instrumental music students.

The three-day program brought together talented young musicians from across the region for an intensive schedule of rehearsals and workshops. Over the course of the program, students completed 15 hours of practice under the guidance of some of Queensland’s leading conductors.

The experience culminated in a final concert, showcasing the students’ dedication and musical development following the intensive rehearsal period.

The opportunity provided the Sarina students with valuable experience performing in a large ensemble while collaborating with other young musicians from across Central Queensland.

Photo source: Sarina State High School

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