Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank has announced a record breaking year of community investment at its AGM, with over $1 million injected directly into supporting more than 100 local projects and initiatives during the 2024/25 financial year.

This milestone brings this profit for purpose organisation’s total community investment to more than $5 million since opening its doors in 2005, reaffirming its long standing commitment to creating an enduring impact in the Sarina and district community.

Strong financial results also delivered a fully franked dividend of 15 cents per share to local shareholders.

“A record community investment and the partnerships we’ve built across the community this year are something we are extremely proud of,” said Community Bank Sarina Board Chair, Karen May.

“By choosing to bank locally, our customers enable us to reinvest profits into projects and initiatives that strengthen and sustain our community,” Mrs May said.

The $1 million of support for the community was delivered through Community Bank Sarina’s Community Engagement Program, which builds the capacity of local organisations, strengthens partnerships and supports initiatives that deliver direct social and economic benefit.

A key focus of this year’s program was supporting legacy projects with long-term benefits, designed to build resilience and create lasting community impact.

“Our goal is to deliver mutual benefits, supporting local organisations to grow and thrive while ensuring Community Bank Sarina remains strong and sustainable for years to come. Our ethos assures customers that we’re here for you and here to stay,” Mrs May said.

It was a record year for the community grants program, with $706,686 invested to directly support 15 organisations responding to local community need with significant legacy projects.

As a step towards addressing the region’s need for housing, the program included a $330,000 community grant to Wongabeena Sarina Aged Housing to construct four new units, increasing affordable housing options for low-income seniors in Sarina.

The project is scheduled for completion in 2026. Wongabeena President Kari Morphy said this investment from Community Bank Sarina has been transformative, laying the groundwork for a project that will improve quality of life for seniors in Sarina for years to come.

“These new units will give more local seniors the chance to stay in the community they love, close to family, friends and the support networks that make Sarina home,” Mrs Morphy said.

Other projects supported this financial year by Community Bank Sarina’s Community Engagement Program included essential health service upgrades, community infrastructure, technology upgrades and swim programs for local students, and more.

This year’s AGM also saw the re-election of Directors Karen May, Rainee Shepperson and Ann Fordyce, rejoining current Director Maree Franettovich, and acknowledged the retirement of Director Nicholas McDougall, recognising his contribution to the Board.

To learn more about Community Bank Sarina’s results and community support during the 2024/25 financial year, view the annual report at https://bit.ly/4oTeUqH.

‍

Recipients of Community Bank Sarina’s Community Engagement Program across FY24/25 celebrating together at the recent AGM. Photos supplied

‍

Sarina Woman Marks 100 Years With Wisdom

Celebrating A Century
Joy Robinson Turns 100

It’s not every day a community gathers to celebrate a 100th birthday, but Sarina’s own Joy Robinson reached the milestone in style, surrounded by four generations of family, friends, and bridge club members last Wednesday.

“Aren’t I lucky,” Joy said with a smile.

“I’m thrilled and it’s a real privilege to be here.”

With a smile as striking as her bridge play, Joy says her secret to longevity is simply, to just be happy.

“Just try to be happy and active… have regular meals…and be happy and be active,” she says.

Joy’s dedication to staying active extends to the bridge table, where she continues to compete and win.

Receiving a letter from the King was a highlight of the day, along with the many other cards filled with kind words from her peers.

“It’s very thrilling to receive a letter from the King,” she said, smiling at the congratulatory note from King Charles III, a recognition of her remarkable milestone.

Despite her century of life, Joy’s competitive spirit hasn’t waned, and her love for the game remains as strong as ever.

Mayor Greg Williamson was among the many well-wishers, praising Joy’s incredible energy and contribution to the community.

“It’s a fantastic pleasure to be here today… absolutely incredible. It’s wonderful to see you still playing bridge after 40 years,” he said.

He also highlighted her wider role in Sarina, acknowledging her involvement in local business and community initiatives over decades. On behalf of Mackay, he extended heartfelt birthday congratulations, saying, “Happy birthday and congratulations on behalf of the community of Mackay.”

The event was a true family affair, with relatives, bridge partners, and friends gathering to honour Joy’s life and achievements. Among the highlights was the ceremonial cake-cutting, where Joy’s grandson helped her blow out the candles. Guests enjoyed a warm, celebratory atmosphere as they shared memories, laughter, and stories of Joy’s competitive, yet impressive bridge play.

Joy reflected on the people who have shaped her life, from loving parents and a devoted husband to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She also shared memories of her community involvement, from early work as a banker to running a family business, and her longstanding membership in the local bridge club, which she described as “a wonderful club” that has kept her mind active and engaged.

Even at 100, Joy remains an inspiration, proving that age is no barrier to staying active, engaged, and happy. Her message to younger generations is to live fully, stay active, and embrace life with joy.

From the bridge table to community contributions, Joy Robinson’s century-long journey is a celebration of resilience, happiness, and a life well-lived.

‍

Sarina resident Joy Robinson celebrated her 100th birthday surrounded by family, friends, and bridge club members at Mackay Contract Bridge Club. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

‍

By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

As the crushing season draws out and moves into its sixth month, it is pleasing to see that we are finally getting onto the downhill run, with both millers issuing their end-of-crush notices.

Plane Creek expect to finish harvesting 26 November and Mackay Sugar announcing completion around 12 December, with any continuation dependent on sufficient cane supply.

This follows a reduction of crop estimates in both districts, being 1.35Mt in Plane Creek and 4.85Mt for Mackay Sugar area. I would say, however, that these still appear to be a little on the high side and whether this materialises in a season shortening is yet to be seen.

Another critical factor in this equation is that the onset of the storm season has begun in late October and is appearing to continue, potentially even ramping up in the lead-up to our annual wet season.  Both of these factors, in addition to factory performance, will at the end of the day dictate the final end date of the 2025 crushing season.

I believe it is fair to say that the sooner the end date materialises, the better for all parties involved, on the proviso that growers are given the opportunity to harvest all cane that they want to harvest.  This will hopefully allow a much-needed reset in our local industry, giving the crop more time to grow and millers more time to do the necessary repairs and get their factories where they need to be for the commencement of the 2026 harvest.

It must be said that growers and harvesting contractors cannot sustain these extended season lengths for what would be considered average crop totals.

It appears that with the rainfall which has followed the prolonged dry spell, is beginning to have an effect on CCS and weight in the crop. Both of these appear to have an expected but concerning a downward trend.

It has been a long season, and over the past few months, has seen several unfortunate accidents occur: some involving members of the public and industry vehicles, as well as inter-industry parties.  This is a concerning trend which must be rectified as we all know that everyone deserves to be able to come home safely and soundly to their loved ones at the end of the day.  I would like to wish those involved in these incidents all the best and hope that they make as successful recovery as is possible from their injuries, both physically and mentally.

I would ask members of the Industry and the wider public to please have patience over the next month or so until the end of the harvest season, and let’s work together to make the end-of-crush a safe and hopefully more timely ending then what we have seen over the past five years.

Stay safe everybody.

‍

The crush is in its final stages, giving the following crop a good chance to grow for 2026.  Photo credit: Kirili Lamb.

‍

Cultivating Tomorrow’s Opportunities

Tickets are now on sale for ABARES Outlook 2026, the Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences’ (ABARES) flagship annual conference, set to take place on the 3rd and 4th of March 2026 at Hotel Realm, Canberra, and online.

With the theme Reset. Rethink. Regrow: Cultivating Tomorrow’s Opportunities, the conference will explore the key forces shaping the future of Australian agriculture, fisheries, and forestry.

ABARES Executive Director Dr Jared Greenville said Outlook 2026 will be a valuable forum for discussion, innovation, and collaboration.

“We will host sessions to discuss commodity outlooks, competition in agriculture, land and sea use change, climate and sustainability, data, innovation and productivity, and food security,” Dr Greenville said.

“These discussions are important given the competing demands on farming and the challenging global trading environment.”

This year’s conference will feature 10 sessions, offering a mix of expert panels, presentations, and fireside chats. A key highlight will be a friendly debate on the focus for growing Australian agriculture — a new addition to the program that promises lively discussion and diverse perspectives.

Delegates can attend in person or virtually, with all sessions broadcast live and online discussions facilitated by Andrew Whitelaw and Matt Dalgleish of Episode 3.

Former BBC host, Nuffield Scholar, and agriculture advocate Claire Taylor will emcee the event, guiding attendees through the two-day program.

“We’re also excited to have the Council of Rural RDCs sponsor the Welcome Sundowners networking function at the end of day one,” Dr Greenville added.

In addition to keynote sessions, the conference will provide the latest commodity data, forecasts, and industry analysis, while also offering networking opportunities to help participants connect, collaborate, and contribute to a more sustainable and competitive agricultural future.

Early bird tickets are available until the 5th of December 2025, with both in-person and digital options.

For full program details, speaker announcements, and sponsorship opportunities, visit www.agriculture.gov.au/event/abares-outlook or contact abaresevents@aff.gov.au

‍

Early bird tickets are on sale now for 2026's ABARES Outlook (Photo Supplied)

‍

Local aged care provider Glenella Care is preparing to join Respect, one of Australia’s largest regional aged care organisations, in a move that honours Glenella’s legacy and invests in the future of care in Mackay.

It is anticipated that from 1 December 2025, Glenella Care will officially become part of the Respect community. A dedicated transition team will support the change, with a focus on continuity of care for residents and preserving employment for current staff.

Respect, a not-for-profit organisation, will grow to 40 aged care homes across five states following the transition. The organisation is known for its person-centred care, reinvestment in local communities, and strong support for staff wellbeing.

Jason Binder, CEO and Managing Director of Respect, said Respect is proud to welcome Glenella Care into its community of homes to build on the legacy it has established in Mackay.

“Glenella Care has been providing care to the Mackay community for over three
decades,” Mr Binder said.

“It was founded by a local family who believed older people should be able to age with dignity, surrounded by the people and places they know and love. That belief is at the heart of everything we do at Respect.”

Glenella began as a 62-bed nursing home and has grown into a 108-bed service offering residential and respite care. Owner Renata Litton said Respect was chosen for its reputation and alignment with Glenella’s values.

After almost 35 years, the family is ready to hand over the reins, confident the home’s legacy will continue.

To learn more about Respect, visit respect.com.au

‍

Photo source: Respect Aged Care

‍

Let me have a little rant for a moment: these days, it feels like everyone is a marketer. Boost one Facebook post, watch a few YouTube tutorials, finish a quick online course and suddenly people think they’re experts. No strategy. No accountability. Just confidence and Canva.

But real marketing is far more than pressing buttons. It’s understanding human behaviour, reading data, building funnels, testing creative, managing budgets, and turning insights into decisions that actually grow a business, not just create noise.

So how do you choose the right marketer to work with?

Start with strategy. A real marketer asks questions before offering solutions: Who is your audience? What are your goals? What does your customer journey look like? They see the full picture, not just the quick fix.

Next, look for clarity. If they can’t explain their process in simple, human terms, they probably don’t understand it well themselves. Transparency is a green flag; buzzwords are not.

And of course, results matter. Look for proven outcomes: conversions, lead quality, cost per acquisition, revenue growth. Pretty graphics alone don’t build businesses.

This is exactly how I operate at Glow Sphere Marketing. With more than 15 years of international marketing experience, I’ve worked across industries, countries, and platforms, helping businesses grow with strategy-first, data-led, human-focused marketing. I believe in systems, clarity, and solutions tailored to each business.

The right marketer doesn’t just make things look good. They make things work. And they walk beside you as a true partner in your growth.

‍

At The Mackay Woodturners Club Expo

This Christmas, why not find gifts that are truly one-of-a-kind? The Mackay Woodturners Club, tucked away at Snow Wright Ct, Andergrove, is opening its doors for a weekend of creativity, craftsmanship, and festive cheer.

This weekend, on 22nd and 23rd November, from 9am–3pm, visitors can explore the impressive skills of local artisans working in woodturning, scroll sawing, intarsia, wood burning (pyrography), and carving, with free entry!

Woodturning is far more than a hobby, it’s an art form that requires patience, precision, and a keen eye for detail. For the club’s members, it’s also a therapeutic and mindful practice, providing a creative escape and a chance to connect with a passionate community.

This year’s Expo will showcase a range of handmade gifts, from toys to homewares, each piece telling a story of dedication and skill. In a world of mass-produced goods, these handcrafted treasures offer quality, longevity, and the chance to support local talent.

Come along, browse the incredible creations, and grab Christmas gifts that will be treasured for years to come.

Event Details:

What: Mackay Woodturners Christmas Expo
When: Saturday 22 & Sunday 23 November, 9am–3pm
Where: Snow Wright Ct, Andergrove.
Free entry.

‍

Photo source: Mackay Woodturners Club

‍

Meet Maple

Breed: Border Collie X
Age: Young Adult
Personality: Playful, Energetic, Affectionate
Vet work: Microchipped, vaccinated and desexed

About Maple:

Maple is an affectionate girl who loves nothing more than cuddling up on the couch with her favorite people. She’s loyal, loving, and will be your biggest fan!
Her ideal home is active and consistent, with plenty of walks, playtime, and enrichment. She’s a bright dog who loves using her nose in fun scent games and would thrive with someone familiar with herding breeds.

If you’re looking for a devoted companion who’s full of energy, heart, and affection, she’s ready to join your loving home!

Contact Lucys Lucky Tags and Dog Rescue Inc on Facebook, or email
LLTagsandDogRescue@gmail.com for more information,

Donations can be made via the following account details:
BSB: 064-722
ACC: 1069 7243

Photos supplied

‍

Readers with even a basic knowledge of ancient history will know that the Flintstones were a modern stone-age family from the town of Bedrock and that they were a page right out of history. When you were with the Flintstones, you’d have a yabba dabba doo time, a dabba doo time, you’d have a gay old time.

A lot has changed since then. These days, if Fred Flintstone and his best mate Barney Rubble were to have a “gay old time” it would mean something completely different and dramatically change the story line of the show.

But some things have not changed. The Flintstones was a 1960s animated sitcom that told the stories of the titular family, the Flintstones, and their neighbours the Rubbles. The show depicted the characters taking part in “modern” activities in a stone-age setting.

One of the things that Fred and Barney enjoyed was ten-pin bowling. Now although archaeologists have found bowling-like pins and balls from ancient Egypt around 5000 years ago, ten-pin bowling did not emerge until the mid-1800s in the United States.

It was very popular at the time the show was being produced and Fred and Barney enjoyed the entertaining diversion.

It’s interesting that in a world that has changed so much, ten-pin bowling is still popular.

A friend of mine, Anna, owns the Mackay Leisure Centre and a big part of that business is the ten-pin bowling alleys.

As far as the bowlers are concerned, ten-pin bowling has not really changed … there are those smooth bowling balls of various weights with three holes for fingers and a thumb. There are those 10 pins, which look pretty much the same as they did in the 1960s.

Of course, like everything else in life, technology has introduced efficiencies.

When the Flintstones went bowling, monkeys sitting on a bracket would pick up the knocked-over pins with their tales. In the real world, after a player did their first bowl a device would pick up the pins that were still standing, sweep away the fallen ones, and put the untouched pins back in the same place.

These days at the Mackay Leisure Centre they have string machines that remove the fallen pins and replace the untouched ones exactly where they were, ready for the second bowl. Apart from having strings attached to the pins, computer technology has made scoring and the  bowling operation more efficient.

But if ten-pin bowling is pretty much the same activity it always has been, how about selling real estate?

Marketing a property used to involve simply putting up a for sale sign and placing an ad in the local paper. Thanks to magazines like this one, you can still put ads in a paper but your marketing needs to have digital reach these days to ensure you capture all the potential buyers for a property.

Those buyers might be in Mackay but they might be at work on a mine site or an investor living in Melbourne … digital technology allows them to see the listings, receive text or email links to a property’s marketing and make inquiries by text, email, What’sApp or mobile phone call.

We have digital data bases to ensure we can maintain contact with potential buyers. In a world obsessed with acronyms, we have a CRM system that automatically generates emails with new listings attached that go to potential buyers.

The photographer’s photos are processed by someone in the Philippines and arrive in my in-box in a drop-box link the next day. Videos are now an important part of marketing a property, some done professionally and others done on mobile phones. We use DocuSign to electronically sign contracts.

So, much has changed. There are new, faster and more efficient ways to reach buyers and create competition for a property. But, like ten-pin bowling, the fundamentals are the same.

You still have to talk to people, create trust and negotiate the best possible deal for the sellers. And when the deal is done … Yabba dabba doo!

‍

David Fisher - Gardian

‍

Queensland Tourism Awards Shone Bright For Local Operators

The Whitsundays shone at the 40th annual Queensland Tourism Awards in Brisbane, taking home an impressive mix of gold, silver, bronze and Hall of Fame honours. The event celebrated four decades of recognising Queensland’s standout tourism operators, with the Whitsundays once again proving why it remains one of the state’s favourite destinations.

Local winners included Whitsunday Escape, Shute Harbour Marine Terminal, Pinnacles Resort, Iconic Whitsunday Adventures, Whitsunday Coast Airport, InterContinental Hayman Island and Bowen Tourism & Business Volunteers. Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth and Mayor Ry Collins praised the region’s dedication, passion and world-class experiences that continue to raise the bar statewide.

The Whitsundays Celebrates Multiple Wins At The 2025 Queensland Tourism Awards

The Whitsundays has once again proven why it’s one of Queensland’s favourite  tourism regions, bringing home an impressive haul of awards at the 40th annual Queensland Tourism Awards held last Friday night in Brisbane.

The celebrations took place at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, where the industry came together to mark 40 years of recognising the people, places and experiences that make Queensland tourism so special. The Queensland Tourism Awards are considered the peak of industry recognition, shining a spotlight on operators who go above and beyond for visitors across the state.

This year, The Whitsundays proudly collected a standout mix of gold, silver, bronze and Hall of Fame honours, a fantastic achievement that showcases the strength, passion, and quality of tourism experiences right across our region.

Whitsundays 2025 Queensland Tourism Awards Results

GOLD
Whitsunday Escape – Unique Accommodation
Shute Harbour Marine Terminal – Tourism Retail, Hire & Services
Pinnacles Resort – Self-Contained Accommodation (Hall of Fame)
Iconic Whitsunday Adventures – Tour & Transport Operators

SILVER
Whitsunday Coast Airport – Tourism Retail, Hire & Services
Iconic Whitsunday Adventures – Adventure Tourism

BRONZE
InterContinental Hayman Great Barrier Reef– 5 Star Luxury Accommodation
Bowen Tourism & Business Volunteers – Outstanding Contribution by a Volunteer or Volunteer Group

Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth said the results are a great reminder of the strength and passion that drives the region’s tourism industry.

“These awards really shine a light on the dedication and hard work happening across The Whitsundays every day. From our accommodation providers and aviation partners to our adventure operators and incredible volunteers, our region continues to punch well above its weight," he said.

“It’s this commitment to creating unforgettable experiences that makes The Whitsundays such a standout across Australia. We’re incredibly proud of all our winners and finalists, what a fantastic achievement for our whole community.”

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the Whitsundays has once again shown why we’re the heart of Queensland tourism.

“These results are a credit to our region’s  operators, volunteers and businesses who work tirelessly to deliver world-class experiences," said Mayor Ry Collins.

“It’s also fantastic to see two of Council’s own facilities , Whitsunday Coast Airport and the Shute Harbour Marine Terminal, recognised with silver and gold. Our region keeps lifting the bar, and we couldn’t be prouder.”

‍

Whitsunday tourism operators returned triumphant, bringing home eight awards for the region including four gold. Photo supplied

The team from Bowen Tourism & Business
Whitsunday Escape celebrated on the night
Iconic Whitsundays brought home gold
Shute Harbour Marine Terminal and Whitsunday Coast Airport were thrilled to win
Put next to the other ESCAPE
Pinnacles Resort shone bright on the night

Photo supplied

‍

Hi Everyone,

The past couple of months have been an absolute whirlwind! It feels like every weekend has been filled with events and I am officially running out of different dresses to wear!

This weekend is no exception, with the inaugural Whitsunday Business Awards taking place on Friday night. You can read our 13-page Nominees Feature from page 19 in this edition, and we will announce the winners in a special feature next week.

I would like to say a massive thank you to the people who have brought Business Awards to our region.

The fact that the event has already sold out to its capacity of 200, and that nominations were strong, shows just how much these awards were needed and how well they have been received.

We are really looking forward to attending this Friday and being among so many local businesses who are proud of their achievements. It will be wonderful to come together and celebrate.

Speaking of celebrating, I would also like to give a huge shout out to the local businesses who brought home a Queensland Tourism Award over the weekend. It was wonderful to see so many Whitsunday operators recognised for their hard work. You can check out page five in this week’s edition, and we will have an extended feature for you next week.

Finally, the last shout out for the week goes to another big event, this time one in our own home, my husband’s birthday. All year round he puts everyone else first, racing the kids to after school activities, holding my handbag at countless work events, and always working quietly behind the scenes to make sure his family is cared for and loved.

This weekend I am looking forward to making it all about him for once. Happy birthday darling.

Rach

Quote of the Week: “The day you plant the seed is not the day you eat the fruit” Unknown

‍

Proserpine State High School has partnered with Whitsunday Regional Council, the Rotary Club of Airlie Beach and its school Parents and Citizen’s Association to deliver a Defensive Driving Course for their Year 11 and 12 students.

The valuable practical and theoretical knowledge delivered to students focuses on hazard perception, vehicle handling, and safe decision-making under pressure, skills that are considered essential for reducing risks on the road.

Adding a meaningful local connection, the course was facilitated by Declan Coull, a former Proserpine State High School graduate who has since established himself in the field of driver education as Director of Advanced Defensive Driving Australia.

Principal Don McDermid of Proserpine State High School said working in partnership with stakeholders and Declan served as a reminder of the strong community ties that continue to support local youth beyond graduation.

“It’s great to re-connect with Declan and see the values we pride ourselves on instilling at school continue to make a meaningful impact and change within our community,” he said.

“This initiative demonstrates the positive outcomes that can be achieved when community organisations work together towards a common goal to support our youth.”

Mr Coull commented on how positive his interactions with the students had been.

“They have been very respectful, with high value placed on the partnership between schools and the greater community,” he said.

Rotary Club of Airlie Beach President Jan Clifford OAM said the club members were very proud to be partnering with the initiative.

“It’s so important to support the safety of our young people,” she said.

Principal McDermid expressed his appreciation to all partners involved in facilitating and making the course affordable for students and reaffirmed the school’s dedication to fostering strong community connections that assists in catering for students’ needs outside the school gates.

‍

PSHS Principal Don McDermid with Year 11 and 12 students along with Whitsunday Regional Council and Rotary Club of Airlie Beach representative Jan Clifford OAM and Advanced Defensive Driving Australia Director Declan Coull. Photo supplied

‍

Proserpine State High School proudly celebrated its 63rd Annual Awards Ceremony on Tuesday night, recognising outstanding student achievement across academia, sport, cultural and leadership categories.

The prestigious event is a highlight on the school calendar, bringing together students, families, staff, and community members to honour the hard work, dedication, and success of its young people.
The ceremony showcased the school’s commitment to nurturing excellence and personal growth, with awards presented to students who have demonstrated exceptional effort, talent, and contribution throughout the year.

Principal Don McDermid congratulated all award recipients and commended the collective achievements of the student body.

“Our Annual Awards Ceremony is a wonderful tradition that celebrates the excellence and character of our students. It’s also a reflection of the supportive community that stands behind them — parents, staff, and community members who make our school such a special place,” he said.

As the school marks more than six decades of celebrating excellence, the 63rd Annual Awards Ceremony stands as a proud reminder of its enduring values — achievement, integrity, and community spirit.

‍

Pictured at the Proserpine State High School 63rd Annual Awards Night in the back row is Principal Don McDermid with students Mia Vloedmans, Bella Knight, Allegra Bradley, Savannah Lamont, Sarah Hart, and Mayor Ry Collins. Front are students Hayden Turnbull, Zachary Gould and Fyn Gunn.

School Principal Don McDermid is pictured with Year 12 student Tavis McDonald who received the QATSIF Young Indigenous Leader Award.

Year 12 student Thalia Foster was a worthy recipient of the Australian Defence Force Future Innovators Award.

Year 11 student Sam Fogg received the Year 11 James Cook University Shield.

Year 10 student Millieson Groom was named Sportsperson of the Year and awarded the Year 10 ADF Future Innovators Award.

Year 12 student Ivy Thompson received the 2025 Cultural Award and is pictured with the school P&C Association President Natalie Stuchbree.

Year 7 student Saskia Hoey was the recipient of the 21st Century Learner Award.

Rotary Club of Proserpine President Chris Harvey pictured with the Junior Secondary Leadership Teamwork recipient Hayden Turnbull.

Year 10 students Daphne Wood and Max Pomeroy were named the St Vincent de Paul Scholarship recipients.

Year 10 student Josephine Watson was the recipient of the Year 10 ADF Long Tan Youth Leadership Teamwork Award.

Year 9 student Sarah Hart received the Junior Secondary All Rounder Award along with the Junior Instrumental Music Award.

Photos supplied

‍

Whitsunday Regional Council is seeking more nominations for the 2026 Australia Day Awards, with the closing date now extended to Thursday, 28th November.

The Awards celebrate the outstanding achievements and contributions of individuals and organisations across the region. Mayor Ry Collins is encouraging everyone to take a moment to nominate someone special.

“We all know someone whether they’re a high achiever or a quiet contributor who deserves recognition for making our community stronger, inclusive and more connected,” Mayor Collins said.

“Taking a few minutes to nominate them is a great way to shine a spotlight on their hard work and dedication. These awards are an opportunity to celebrate the people and groups who make the Whitsunday Region such an exceptional place to live.”

The Awards recognise excellence across a range of categories:

• Citizen of the Year Award – Honouring individuals aged 27 years or older as of 26 January 2026 who have made significant contributions to the Whitsunday Region or provided outstanding service to the community.

• Young Citizen of the Year – Celebrating young people aged 16–26 as of 26 January 2026 who have positively impacted the community.

• Community Event of the Year – A standout event that has made a meaningful local impact.

• Spirit of the Whitsundays Award – Recognising generosity, pride and contributions that strengthen community connection.

• Corporate Community Contribution of the Year – Honouring business-led initiatives or support that benefit our region.

• Community Champion Award – Mayoral Award – Selected by the Mayor to acknowledge exceptional voluntary contributions in arts, culture, sport or service.

• Volunteer of the Year Award – Celebrating volunteers of all ages who have significantly contributed to the Whitsunday Region. This award is presented in honour of Wally Hinschen.

How to Nominate:

• Complete the online nomination form via Your Say Whitsunday.

• Download a PDF nomination form from the Your Say Whitsunday website.

• Collect and submit a hard copy from any Council Customer Service Centre at Collinsville, Bowen, Proserpine or Cannonvale.

Nominations close 5pm, Thursday 28th November, so don’t miss your chance to recognise the unsung heroes of our region.

Further information on the Australia Day Award celebrations will be provided at a later date.

‍

The 2025 Whitsunday Citizen of the Year was Matt Stokes President of Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network. Photo sourced: Whitsunday Life Newspaper

‍

Last Friday a major milestone for the Bowen community was announced with the official opening of the Yaringa Frontline Accommodation Units, a purpose-built housing complex designed to support frontline health, education and aged care professionals.

The first of its kind in Queensland, Yaringa consists of four two-bedroom units centrally located in Bowen, providing secure and affordable housing for up to eight essential workers. Each unit includes a shared laundry, kitchen, dining and living space, as well as a garage and parking bay.

The $3.2 million project was funded by the Queensland Government, whose investment has directly addressed one of Bowen’s most pressing challenges, the shortage of workforce housing.

Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, Manufacturing, and for Regional and Rural Development Dale Last MP said that "Like most of Queensland, Bowen has paid the price for Labor’s failure to boost housing. That failure resulted in housing not being available for the health and education professionals that our community needs."

“The Bowen Community Council has done a great job in identifying an opportunity that will not only boost services in Bowen but will also help to reduce the pressure on Bowen’s rental market.

“The opening of Yaringa is a great illustration of the Crisafulli LNP Government’s commitment to work cooperatively with community groups to create better communities across Queensland.”

Chairperson of the Bowen Community Council Inc. Chris Coventry said this project is more than just bricks and mortar.

"It’s about restoring access to essential services for Bowen residents and giving our frontline workers a place to call home," he said.

“These four units will provide essential accommodation for our frontline professionals – our nurses, allied health workers and teachers who play a vital role in the wellbeing and future of our town.

“By housing these dedicated professionals locally, we not only support their critical work but also free up accommodation for other community members. Most importantly, we’re helping to ensure that our elderly residents no longer have to travel long distances for essential care.”

Meeting a critical need
Bowen has long struggled to attract and retain professional staff due to rental vacancy rates below 0.5 per cent and limited housing stock. This shortage has impacted the delivery of essential services, including healthcare, schooling and aged care.

Yaringa responds to this need by:
• Providing dedicated accommodation for medical and allied health staff, improving continuity of care and reducing wait times.
• Supporting local schools by housing teachers who previously commuted long distances, enabling better access to before- and after-school programs.

Community impact
The Yaringa units are already making a difference:
• Queensland Health has secured housing for four staff, stabilising local medical services.
• Queens Beach State School has increased its capacity to recruit and retain teachers.
• Murroona Gardens has regained two aged care rooms for immediate use.

“This project is a testament to what can be achieved when government, community and service providers work together to solve real-world challenges,” said President of the Bowen Community Centre Christine Coventry.

“We’re grateful to the Queensland Government for its support, which is already improving access to key services," she added.

“Our vision is to continue expanding accommodation options to attract and retain professionals in Bowen because when they thrive, our entire community thrives.”

‍