Bowen’s iconic Big Mango is featured on the most recent edition of Monopoly, and it is proving very popular.

“The Big Things of Australia” edition of the iconic board game was launched in November.

More than 130 copies have already been sold at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre since the launch.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said there were hundreds of different editions of the board game, and the “Big Things of Australia” was the most recent one.

“We decided to sponsor this edition as we wanted the Big Mango to be featured and it is very prominent,” she said.

The game includes a custom-made Big Mango token.

“A lot of local people bought copies as soon as it was launched as it was such a great Christmas present,” said Leanne.

“We thought sales may have slowed down after Christmas, but this game is still proving very popular among visitors and locals.”

The Visitor Information Centre also has copies of the Whitsundays edition of the game for sale.
The Whitsundays edition is travel-size (much smaller) but the Big Things edition is the standard size game.

Monopoly has been around since the early 20th century and is played worldwide in various forms. It is a game all members of the family can enjoy.

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Bowen Tourism and Business volunteer Steve “Fish” Fisher showing the board game to some visitors last week.

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Families often hope a new year will bring more connection, less conflict, and smoother communication. While every family is different, research consistently shows that everyday communication habits significantly affect relationships, mental health, and adolescent behaviour.

Why communication routines matter
From a Family Systems perspective, families operate like interconnected emotional units. When one person is stressed or disconnected, it influences everyone. Healthy families balance this disruption with patience and understanding and shared expectations.

Start with small, consistent routines.
Deep family change doesn’t require big interventions. The most effective strategies are simple and regular.

Try these quick routines:
1. Ten-Minute Daily Check-In

Each family member shares:
• one thing that went well
• one challenge
• one small win or goal for tomorrow

This strengthens emotional literacy and normalises communication.

2. Co-create family expectations
Rules work best when teens help create them.
Involve them in:
• household responsibilities
• boundaries around devices, sleep, and screen time
• Shared ownership increases adherence.

Scripts that support healthy communication
Use simple, non-threatening openers:
1. “Help me understand…”
2. “What do you need right now?”
3. “I’m listening, tell me more.”
4. “Let’s figure this out together.”

Connection over correction
While rules and boundaries are essential, connection is the foundation. A child or teen who feels emotionally safe is more open to guidance, feedback, and compromise.

Need help with connection, visit my website https://www.personaltransitions.com.au/ or give me a call 0418708214. NDIS FRIENDLY

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Passionate Queenslanders aged 16-25 are invited to apply to the Queensland Youth Parliament, where 93 young people will represent their communities in Parliament House and work to develop and debate their ideas.  

The six-month program provides a platform for Queenslanders aged 16-25 to amplify their voices, whilst helping them build leadership skills, contribute to meaningful policy discussions and create connections. 

“We received a record 471 nominations last year, which shows the passion of our next generation to have their say on the issues that matter to them." Minister for Youth, Sam O’Connor, said. 

According to Queensland Youth Parliament Coordinator Grace Campbell; “This is a unique opportunity for young people right across the state to represent their communities and experience how parliament operates firsthand, including presenting and debating their Youth Bills in Queensland’s Parliament House.” 

Former Youth Parliament Member Charlotte Squire encouraged any young person who has identified a specific issue within their community to apply for QYP. 

“Queensland Youth Parliament provides the tools, skills, and support to help address issues that matter to youth and their communities," Ms Squire said. 

Applications are available online, and as a printable form. QYP offers direct support to young people who may need assistance in completing their applications.  

Nominations will close on 22 February 2026. 

Applications can be submitted at www.ymcaqyp.org.au.  

Photo source: Facebook

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Celebrating two years of service to Proserpine:
Mackey Permanent Building Society celebrated two years of service in Proserpine. Birthday festivities lasted for a week: giveaways for children and drinks and cake for the other customers. The staff members who were sharing the joy were Wendy Edwards, Paula Taylor, Bernadette Day and Christine Hinschen.
High School Observations:
The year started with an increased population, as, 85% of Year Tens returned to school and enrolled in Year Eleven. Congratulations to Tim Jorgensen and Karryn Crothall, seniors from 1985, who attained a TE score of 970. Michael Braby and Bobby Steel did very well with 965 and Catherine Pini 930.
An exchange student arrives from Sweden:
Sweden exchange student Carl Frederick Elgh,17, will live in Proserpine Shire for a year attending High School and living with Muriel and Con Jansen. He is fascinated by sharks and our wildlife.
Special air posting for Samantha French:
Samantha, 19, was commissioned to a special post in Air Traffic Control at the Melbourne RAAF base. Her father was very proud. He had been a sergeant ion the RAF in England. Some of her classmates Sharon Hedgelong and Tracey Muller have also joined the Air Force and two lads joined the army.
Entertainment:
Dave and Joy Seawright celebrated the first birthday of the Reef Gateway Hotel on Saturday night. Rodeshow, the showband proved to be versatile and funny. Talent ranged from serious musicianship to slapstick comedy. Their rendition of ‘Stairway to Heaven’ received the most applause.                                   A large birthday cake was cut by Dave and Joy and trays of hot and cold savouries were served.
First Woman to lead Tennis Association:
Another chapter was written in the fifty-two-year history of the Proserpine Tennis Assn when Mrs Irene Ferraris was elected as its first female president.
Indoor Cricket launched last week:
Indoor Cricket, a sport popular Australia wide, began officially in Proserpine last week. Hundreds of players who formed forty teams (eight in each) and many spectators visited the new cricket court in Anzac Road. Court Manager, Mr Dan Dray said that for a small court fee the players can enjoy an invigorating sport, in any weather conditions. All equipment is supplied.
School of Dance is in again:
The Dee Jay’s School of Dance commenced classes in the Cultural Hall this week. The Principal Miss Denise Jarrott ARAD said the children seemed very keen to get back to class after a long break.
Road Report:
The Council’s Consulting Engineers, Ullman & Nolan, have been requested to submit a detailed report on the state of all secondary roads within the Shire and to evaluate the adequacy in respect to existing and projected traffic flows. Estimated cost of this report $5 558.
Plains become a Traffic Hazard:
Monday morning saw many commuters who work in Proserpine, drive in from the coast in trucks or four-wheel drives to cope with the conditions on Hamilton Plains. RACQ spokesman said he only had to help a couple of people who stalled their cars, but it was the worst traffic hazard he had seen.

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By Michele Shea 

This week’s photo of the week winner Michele Shea for her photo of wild horses on a backroad near Cairns.

These photographs are contributed by the Whitsundays Amateur Photographers Group

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The Great Barrier Reef — the jewel in the crown of coral reefs worldwide — is facing an uncertain future.
Most Australians are now aware that the greatest threat to the Reef is climate change. Rising ocean temperatures are driving mass coral bleaching events, while ocean acidification weakens the very skeletons corals rely on to grow. Combating climate change requires a coordinated global response, and while action is underway, it is happening far too slowly. Time, unfortunately, is not on the Reef’s side.
Yet all is not lost. While the Reef cannot be saved by local action alone, there is much Australia can do right now to buy the Reef time. The key lies in building reef resilience — strengthening the Reef’s ability to withstand disturbances and recover from them when they occur.
What Is Reef Resilience?
Reef resilience refers to a coral reef’s capacity to resist damage and bounce back after stress events such as bleaching, storms, or disease outbreaks. A healthy, resilient reef is far more likely to survive climate impacts than one already weakened by pollution, overfishing, or poor water quality.
The good news is that building reef resilience does not require international agreement or global consensus. It can be — and already is being — done at home. Two major strategies are being pursued together: reducing local pressures on the Reef, and actively restoring and adapting reef ecosystems.
Reducing Local Impacts on the Reef
Local stressors have long undermined the health of the Great Barrier Reef, making it more vulnerable to climate change.
One of the most damaging is poor water quality. Runoff from the land carries excess nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus, along with pesticides and fine sediments, into coastal waters. These pollutants largely originate from agriculture, land clearing, and coastal development. Once in the ocean, they promote harmful algal blooms and reduce the amount of light reaching corals, stifling growth and increasing disease risk.
Australia’s recently released Nature Laws have the potential to significantly reduce this decades-old problem — but only if they are properly enforced and adequately funded.
Another major threat comes from crown-of-thorns starfish (COTS). These coral-eating predators can devastate reefs, consuming vast areas of coral in a matter of weeks. Outbreaks have plagued the Reef for decades, and research suggests that poor water quality may play a role in triggering population explosions.
Today, trained dive teams are actively controlling outbreaks by injecting starfish with substances such as vinegar or cattle bile — both reef-safe but lethal to the starfish. While labour-intensive, this approach has proven effective in protecting high-value reefs from severe damage.
Fishing practices also play a critical role in reef health. Overfishing, destructive gear use, and illegal fishing can severely disrupt reef ecosystems. The removal of key herbivorous fish allows algae to overgrow and smother corals, while practices such as bottom trawling physically damage reef structures.
On the Great Barrier Reef, fishing is managed through a combination of spatial zoning, quotas, gear restrictions, and enforcement by Australian and Queensland authorities. Measures include limits on commercial access, total allowable catches, size and bag limits, and seasonal closures — all designed to maintain ecological balance and long-term sustainability.
Restoration and Adaptation: Science in Action
Alongside reducing local impacts, scientists are now working to actively restore and adapt the Reef to a warming world.
Reef restoration and adaptation is a suite of large-scale, science-driven initiatives aimed at helping corals survive climate change. The goal is to develop tools that increase coral heat tolerance, accelerate recovery after bleaching, and enhance long-term adaptation to rising temperatures.
Some of the key approaches include:
·         Coral propagation and aquaculture: Growing large numbers of heat-tolerant corals in laboratories and nurseries before transplanting them onto damaged reefs.
·         Heat tolerance acceleration: Studying coral genetics and using beneficial microbes, or “probiotics”, to enhance natural resilience to warmer waters.
·         Assisted recovery: Using robotic and semi-automated systems to distribute coral larvae and stabilise loose reef rubble, improving survival rates after disturbances.
It may sound like science fiction, but these projects are already underway — right now, on the Great Barrier Reef.

The Role of Climate Action
Despite these local and national efforts, climate change remains the Reef’s greatest existential threat. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions is essential to limiting global warming to 1.5°C — a threshold widely regarded as critical for the long-term survival of coral reefs worldwide.
Local action alone cannot save the Reef. But every step taken to reduce pollution, manage fisheries, control outbreaks, and restore damaged reefs strengthens resilience and increases the chances of survival.
Building reef resilience is not about replacing climate action — it is about buying time. And for the Great Barrier Reef, time may be the most valuable resource we have.

Contributed with thanks to Tony Fontes.

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The Whitsunday Regional Council Australia Day Awards celebrated citizens in our region that weer recognised as community achievers.

All winners and nominees should be proud of their efforts, without them and their generosity the Whitsunday community could not thrive as it does.

Mayor Ry Collins said the awards highlight the people and groups whose contributions help shape strong, connected communities across the Whitsundays.

“Today we’re recognising the individuals and organisations who go above and beyond for others,” Mayor Collins said.

“Our award recipients and nominees are community achievers from dedicated volunteers and emerging leaders to those who quietly support others behind the scenes, and these awards celebrate more than individual achievements; they recognise the values of generosity, resilience and community spirit that define the Whitsundays.

“Taking time on Australia Day to acknowledge these contributions reminds us why our region is such a great place to live.”

Local Legends Celebrate Win In Australia Day Awards

The Australia Day Awards held at Bowen PCYC earlier this week was a huge success, with over 200 people in attendance to celebrate the nominees and award winners.

The winners of the Whitsunday Regional Council Australia Day Awards are:

Citizen of the Year Award – Peter Goodman

Young Citizen of the Year – Allegra Bradley

Mayoral Awards – Cooper Wilde, Gregory Buckler, Whitsunday Running Club and Wurra Yumba Kangaroo House

Spirit of the Whitsundays Award – “Weary” Brian Dunlop

Community Event of the Year – Proserpine Rock Wallaby Festival

Volunteer of the Year Award – Bowen Community Centre

Community Champion Award – Justin Butler

Australia Day Achievement Award for Outstanding Members of the Queensland SES – Greg Yuskan

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins warmly thanked everyone who submitted nominations for the event, noting the day was a wonderful celebration of community, connection and the people who quietly and selflessly make a difference within the region.

"I really want to thank everybody that submitted nominations to celebrate the amazing people right across our region and I think you all agree we have an immense number of worthy nominees here today," he said.

"To our Australia Day, nominees and recipients, I want to say how genuinely impressed I am by each and every one of you. The depth of service, commitment and care represented here today is truly extraordinary - you give your time, you give your energy, you give your passion and your skills, not for recognition, but because you believe in our community. You believe the people in it."

Mayor Collins highlighted those who had been dedicating their time for years, thanking them for their continued commitment to bettering the community.

"Some of you have been doing this work for decades others are only making impact in newer days," he said.

"All of you are leading by example, mentoring young people, support those doing it tough, strengthening our local organisations and institutions, and helping shape the Whitsundays into a community we are so proud of today."

Citizen of the Year Peter Goodman said he was over the moon and that the win came as a surprise.

Peter has devoted a lifetime to serving the Bowen community with dedication, humility and generosity. He has been a long standing member of the Lions Club, holding every office, including Zone Chairman , and contributed countless hours to community invitations.

Peter has given many years of dedicated volunteer service through Meals on Wheels, the Proserpine Historical Museum and numerous church fundraisers. Known for his quiet generosity, he has also personally supported community events by collecting local produce at his own expense, making him a valued and unsung local contributor.

Young Citizen of the Year Allegra Bradley said her award completes her aims and goals for last year, with it being the cherry on top of a fantastic academic year.

Allegra is a dedicated volunteer and leader, contributing to community events including the Great Barrier Reef Festival, school musicals, Anzac Day services and charity fundraising. She combines creativity, service and strong academic achievement in the performing arts, making her a worthy Young Citizen of the Year recipient.

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Australia Day Awards Ceremony Winners. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

Whitsunday Citizen of the Year Winner Peter Goodman with Councillor John Finlay, Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP, Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP, and Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

Whitsunday Young Citizen of the Year Allegra Bradley with Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP and Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins. Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi

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Hi Everyone,

It’s good to be back.

I’ve loved the school holidays; seeing my son and husband every day, enjoying quality family time with my stepdaughters, surf lessons in 1770, turtle nesting at Bargara Waters, and sweet, sun-soaked Sunny Coast days.

But after all the adventure, it’s always comforting to return to routine.

After all, there are only so many daily ice creams, luxuriously lazy mornings, afternoon cocktails, and high energy kid moments a person can enjoy before tipping just a little too far into indulgence and away from purpose and action.

So this Tuesday, like many other families across the region, I dusted off the school lunchbox, made my first pack-lunch of the year, tucked it into a brand new, brightly coloured school bag, took the obligatory first day photo, and waved goodbye as my son scootered off down the road.

I have to say, I love the start of a fresh new year, far more than the anxious anticipation that comes before it. Once it arrives, shiny and full of possibility, I feel excited, renewed, and ready to begin again.

With the internal promise that I will slow down a little this year, of course. A promise that will likely last a week!

I would like to use my first Editor’s Note of the year to congratulate all the winners and nominees of the Australia Day Awards across the country, and especially those right here in the Whitsundays. To be nominated is to know you have made a positive difference in someone’s life, often many lives. And, if that is not the pinnacle of success, then what is?

As we celebrate this incredible country, I am deeply grateful to call Australia home. It has been especially heartwarming to see close friends make it official this year by becoming citizens. A huge congratulations on finally becoming legit!

Rach

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The Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN) put community spirit front and centre on Australia Day, hosting a free barbecue in Bowen to support locals attending the town’s Citizenship Ceremony and Australia Day Awards.

Held on 26 January between 10am and 12pm, the barbecue offered a welcoming space for residents waiting between events, with WSPN volunteers on site from 9am to 1pm. The initiative formed part of the network’s ongoing efforts to establish a stronger presence in Bowen and ensure vital mental health support reaches communities across the region.

The barbecue was more than just a meal — it was an opportunity for connection, conversation and visibility, reinforcing WSPN’s message that no one has to face life’s challenges alone. Volunteers spent the morning engaging with community members, sharing information and helping lay the foundations for future local support initiatives.

Having worked throughout the Whitsundays for many years, WSPN is now expanding its reach to better serve Bowen and surrounding areas. The community-led network focuses on suicide prevention through education, training, awareness and collaboration, working closely with local organisations and service providers.

The Australia Day barbecue was made possible through strong volunteer and community support, highlighting the power of small, practical acts in strengthening community wellbeing.

Residents interested in supporting the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network can find out more information by contacting info@wspn.org.au.

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Bowen WSPN Members Megan Mattingley and Keira Prosser. Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi

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Council has adopted the Airlie Beach Precinct Master Plan, establishing a long-term roadmap for
Airlie Beach that balances tourism, community use and economic growth as part of a coordinated,
region-wide planning approach.

The Master Plan was adopted at Wednesday 28th January Council Meeting, the same meeting as the Galbraith Park Master Plan, reinforcing Council’s commitment to coordinated, place-based planning across the region’s key community and visitor precincts.

The Airlie Beach Precinct Master Plan provides a strategic roadmap for how Airlie Beach can
evolve over time by enhancing the foreshore, improving connections, supporting events and tourism, and unlocking future investment opportunities while protecting the character that has made Airlie Beach the economic and social heart of the Whitsundays.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said Airlie Beach plays a central role in the
region’s economy and identity, making thoughtful long-term planning essential.

“Airlie Beach is a key gateway for visitors and one of Queensland’s most recognised coastal
destinations,” Mayor Collins said.

“This Master Plan is about making sure Airlie Beach continues to thrive in a way that supports
locals, businesses and the broader region, both now and into the future.”

The plan outlines a staged approach to renewal and enhancement across key precincts, including
the foreshore, lagoon, parklands, Main Street connections and Waterson Way.

Proposed initiatives include improved public spaces, family-friendly recreation, stronger pedestrian and cycle connectivity, event-ready parklands and opportunities to unlock future private investment that complements the public realm.

Mayor Collins said it was important for the community to understand the Master Plan is a strategic framework, not a construction schedule.

“This is a roadmap for the future. Not everything in this plan will happen quickly, and not everything will be delivered at once,” he said.

“The value of a Master Plan is that it gives Council, investors and the community a shovel ready
direction so when opportunities, funding or partnerships arise, we’re ready to act.”

The Airlie Beach Precinct Master Plan will now guide future planning, investment attraction and
project prioritisation across Council and partner agencies.

Mayor Collins said the plan also strengthens Airlie Beach’s role as a leading events and tourism
destination.

“Airlie Beach already punches well above its weight when it comes to tourism, events and global
recognition,” he said.

“This plan helps future-proof that success and positions the Whitsundays strongly as the home of
Olympic sailing in the lead-up to 2032 and beyond.”

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Whitsunday Regional Council's Draft Masterplan. Image sourced: WRC website

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On Monday 26th January the Whitsundays welcomed 45 new citizens in the Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony held at Bowen PCYC.

The 45 new citizens, were from 12 different countries including Philappines, El Salvador, United Kingdom, Ukraine, Germany, New Zealand, Scotland, South Africa, Thailand, Wales, Cambodia and Netherlands.

The ceremony was in good attendance with family, friends and important figures in attendance. Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP, Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP, Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins, Deputy Mayor Michelle Wright, Councillor Jan Clifford, Councillor Clay Bauman, Councillor John Collins, Councillor John Finlay and Juru Elder Trevor Prior.

Mayor Collins, said it was a pleasure to congratulate each citizen on this milestone in their lives.

"This is not just a legal step, but a heartfelt commitment to the values and freedoms that define our country," he said.

"Australian citizenship is about embracing the responsibilities that come with it—following our laws, participating in our democratic processes through voting and standing ready to protect our country if needed. But it’s also about the incredible rights you gain—the freedom to celebrate your culture, express your beliefs and contribute to a society that values the rich diversity of all its people."

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Photo credit: Stories in Light

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Police Appeal Following Cannonvale Traffic Crash
Queensland Police Service (QPS) authorities are appealing for information after a traffic crash in Cannonvale on Friday, 23rd January.

Investigations revealed that around 11.15pm a dark-coloured vehicle, believed to be a late-model Ford Everest, was travelling at speed on Island Drive when it struck a 40-year-old Cannonvale man riding an e-scooter. The man was transported to Proserpine Hospital and then airlifted by helicopter to Mackay Hospital with significant, potentially life-threatening leg and head injuries.

The driver failed to stop or render assistance and had left the scene before police arrived.
Police are urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident, or who has dashcam or CCTV footage from the area, to come forward. Officers are particularly keen to hear from anyone in the vicinity of Island Drive before or after the crash.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Policelink online at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or report anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersqld.com.au and quote the reference number QP2600151091.

Police Shift Focus to School Zones After Major Road Safety Operations
QPS have wrapped up two major road safety operations, with enforcement efforts now shifting toward school zone compliance as students return to classrooms across the state.

Operation X-Ray Surety and Operation X-Ray Mistletoe concluded this month, delivering significant enforcement outcomes as part of the Queensland Police Service’s ongoing efforts to reduce road trauma.

Operation X-Ray Surety was launched on 3 November 2025 in response to the increasing use of e-mobility devices, including e-bikes and e-scooters, and rising rates of unsafe and non-compliant riding. Over the 12-week operation, police issued more than 2,700 infringements statewide, the majority for failing to wear helmets, as well as offences for riding on prohibited roads and speeding. A further 142 non-compliant devices were removed from roads.

Road Policing and Regional Support Command Assistant Commissioner Adam Guild said the operation focused on prevention, particularly among young riders.

“Over the 12 weeks Operation X-Ray Surety ran, our officers worked tirelessly to reduce risk and prevent serious injury,” he said, noting that education in schools and communities formed a key part of the operation.

Operation X-Ray Mistletoe began on 13 December 2025 as the annual holiday road safety campaign, targeting behaviours linked to fatal crashes such as speeding and drink and drug driving. During the operation, police detected more than 32,100 traffic offences, including 16,000 speeding offences, and conducted more than 177,500 roadside breath tests and 7,200 drug tests.

Chief Superintendent Mark Wheeler said speeding, impairment, distraction, fatigue and failing to wear seatbelts remain the leading contributors to deadly crashes.

With the holiday operation now complete, police will maintain a strong presence on Queensland roads, with particular attention on school zones.

“Safer roads start with you,” Chief Superintendent Wheeler said. “Every decision you make behind the wheel matters.”

Water Safety a Priority Over The Long Weekend
Queensland authorities ramped up water safety messaging ahead of the recent long weekend, as one of the busiest and highest-risk periods on the state’s waterways unfolded.

With coastal and inland waterways experiencing heavy traffic, Queensland Water Police joined forces with Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) and Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) to help ensure a safe and enjoyable break for boaties, swimmers and beachgoers.

Water Police Sunshine Coast Officer in Charge Sergeant Kyle Bates said officers were out in force throughout the long weekend, focusing on safe and responsible behaviour on the water.

“With increased traffic on both coastal and inland waterways, the choices people make on the water matter more than ever – not just for themselves, but for everyone around them,” Sergeant Bates said.

He also reiterated the dangers of mixing alcohol or drugs with boating, noting authorities have a zero-tolerance policy for anyone putting themselves and others at risk.

“Alcohol and drugs will slow down your reaction time and decision-making, increasing the risk of serious injury or fatal incidents,” he said.

MRQ Chief Officer Tony Wulff said more than 1,000 volunteers were on standby across the state during the long weekend.

MSQ General Manager Kell Dillon said while most boaties were doing the right thing, the long weekend highlighted the need for extra caution.

“Slow down, wear your lifejacket, and make it home safely to your family and friends,” he said.

Authorities reminded Queenslanders that water safety was a shared responsibility, with planning, preparation and smart decision-making key to a safe long weekend on the water.

Jack’s Law Delivering Results Six Months On
Since Jack’s Law became permanent six months ago, Mackay and the Whitsundays region has seen 4,194 people scanned and 10 weapons seized by police, as part of statewide efforts to prevent knife crime.

The expanded law allows officers to use hand-held metal detectors in all public places, increasing their ability to detect weapons and intervene early.

Minister for Police and Emergency Services Dan Purdie said the results show the law is making Queensland safer.

“Every weapon seized is a potential life saved, and that’s how we honour Jack Beasley’s legacy,” he said.

Commissioner of Police Steve Gollschewski also commended frontline officers for their work in leveraging the powers to better prevent, detect, and disrupt crime across the region.

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QPS are appealing for information following a Cannonvale traffic crash. Photo source: QPS
Operation X-Ray Surety and Operation X-Ray Mistletoe will concluded this month. Photo source: QPS

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By Sebastian Conidi

On Wednesday 21st January, more than 70 protestors gathered by the Proserpine Community Centre to campaign against a proposed wind farm by Alinta Energy.

The event was organised by Whitsunday Wind Farm Action Group, who took to Facebook stating: "This is our moment to stand together. We need your presence this afternoon to show the strength of community opposition to Mt Challenger Wind Farm. Every person there matters. Every face counts."

The Mt Challenger Wind Farm is a proposed wind turbine development by Alinta Energy in the Whitsundays region of North Queensland. The proposal involves two separate project locations at Mt Challenger and Crystal Brook/Kelsey Creek with plans for up to 30 industrial wind turbines, each reaching approximately 240 metres in height. Several of the proposed turbine locations are close to existing rural homes and properties, with some situated within 1.5 kilometres of residences and less than 9 kilometres from Proserpine.

There have been ongoing community concerns about the impact on wildlife, safety and liveability. According to the Whitsunday Wind Farm Action Group website, there is still scepticism over the accuracy of the information that is being provided.

Communication action developed after Alinta Energy held a public consultation at the Proserpine Tennis Club on 16th October, 2025. Since then, the group launched a page on social media and have held several protests.

Federal MP Andrew Wilcox has since raised community concerns with the Federal Parliament. In a statement made on 5th December, 2025, Wilcox provided official comments on the matter.

"There is nothing safe, fair or responsible about placing this project in the middle of a rural community. The location is wrong, the risks are real. The majority of the community is united and I will not allow these families to be steamrolled," said Mr Wilcox.

In the same month, State MP Amanda Camm also spoke in Queensland Parliament, reiterating public concerns and stressing the need for proper community engagement.

As of January 2026, a community petition against the wind farm has surpassed 5000 petitions.

According to Alinta Energy's page, they are currently at the 'feasibility and engagement' stage of development, which includes site investigations, raising awareness of the project and seeking feedback from the community.

With Alinta Energy's return to the site this January, it is likely that discussions and campaigning will continue for the foreseeable future.

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A protest was held outside Proserpine Community Centre on 21st January

Photo Source: Whitsunday Wind Farm Action Group

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Extreme weather events affecting the Whitsundays and Mackay regions contributed to a costly year across Queensland, with new figures showing insured losses from extreme weather reached almost $3.5 billion nationally in 2025.

According to data released by the Insurance Council of Australia, North Queensland flooding early last year was one of five major events declared significant or catastrophic, with impacts felt across coastal and regional communities, including parts of the Mackay and Whitsundays.

The North Queensland floods, which occurred between late January and mid-February 2025, generated more than 11,700 insurance claims and an estimated $304 million in insured losses. Heavy rainfall, river flooding and widespread inundation caused damage to homes, businesses and infrastructure, disrupting transport and agriculture across the region.

Later in the year, severe storm activity across Queensland also had flow-on effects for Central and North Queensland communities. While the most destructive hailstorms were concentrated further south, insurers noted that statewide weather systems placed ongoing pressure on claims services and recovery resources.

The data highlights the growing unpredictability of extreme weather. By comparison, insured losses totalled $581 million in 2024 and $2.35 billion in 2023, underscoring how dramatically annual costs can vary.

To support recovery, insurers coordinated community consultation sessions and deployed Insurance Hubs following major events. Insurers have warned that final costs from 2025 events may continue to rise as late claims are lodged.

The trend has continued into 2026, with monsoonal conditions already affecting parts of North Queensland. Insurers say they are prioritising claims and maintaining an on-the-ground presence in affected communities.

For regions like Mackay and the Whitsundays, the figures are a stark reminder of the increasing financial and environmental toll of extreme weather—and the importance of preparedness as communities face another wet season ahead.

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Mackay Whitsunday Taxis has proudly delivered safe, reliable, and professional transport services across the Mackay and Whitsunday regions for more than 40 years. The business provides a comprehensive range of services including general taxi transport, corporate and account work, school and medical transfers, airport transfers, and accessible transport under the Transport and Main Roads Taxi Subsidy Scheme. Its long-standing focus has been to ensure the community has access to dependable, locally operated transport around the clock.

As customer expectations and technology continue to evolve, the transport industry has undergone significant change. Mackay Whitsunday Taxis has responded by integrating digital booking and payment systems through the 13cabs app, enabling passengers to easily book, track, and pay for trips. Demand for airport and tourism-related transport has also grown steadily in the Whitsundays, leading to the introduction of fixed fares on key routes, enhanced vehicle tracking, and driver refresher programs that reinforce safety and service standards.

A key point of difference for the business is its strong local presence. The company is managed and operated by people who understand the region and its unique transport needs, allowing them to provide a personalised, community-focused service.

Over the past year, the business has navigated challenges including driver recruitment, rising operational costs, and the need to adapt to new technologies. These challenges have been addressed through improved driver support, structured onboarding and training, and stronger communication across the organisation. Additional investment in marketing and community engagement has also helped raise awareness of services and career opportunities.

Their advice to other business owners is to:

1. Invest in your people. Your team represents your brand every day. Training, support, and recognition go a long way.
2. Embrace change. Technology and customer expectations evolve quickly. Adaptation keeps your business relevant and competitive.
3. Stay community focused. Building trust and visibility in your local area is the foundation for long-term success.

Mackay Whitsunday Taxis continues to value its membership with the Whitsundays Chamber, recognising the importance of collaboration, connection, and shared commitment to strengthening local business and supporting regional growth. They are also a member of the Chamber’s Ground Transport Operators Sub-Committee.
Learn more: https://www.mackaytaxi.com.au/

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Mackay Whitsunday Taxi are safe, reliable, and professional. Photo supplied

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