Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Mackay Business Awarded $19,807 To Strengthen Security A Mackay business is among dozens across Queensland to receive State Government funding for security upgrades aimed at deterring crime and improving safety for staff and customers. Beyond Psyence Pty Ltd has been awarded $19,807 through Round 2 of the Secure Communities Partnership Program, with the funding to be used for access control and entry management measures. The business was one of 62 small and family businesses across the state to receive funding in the latest round of the program, which supports the installation of crime prevention infrastructure such as CCTV, secure fencing, bollards, alarm systems and lighting upgrades. Minister for Small and Family Business Steve Minnikin said the funding would help businesses take practical steps to improve security. “This program empowers local small businesses to take proactive steps to protect their livelihoods, employees, and customers, while contributing to safer communities across Queensland,” Mr Minnikin said. “I’m proud that two-thirds of funding in this release has been awarded to small businesses based in regional Queensland, ensuring support reaches every corner of our state.” The Secure Communities Partnership Program provides grants of between $5,000 and $20,000 to eligible small and family businesses that have been directly impacted by crime in the past five years, or operate in areas affected by crime. Applicants are required to contribute at least 50 per cent of the total project cost and can use the funding for a range of security measures including surveillance systems, access control upgrades, perimeter security and alarm systems. The latest funding round follows Round 1 of the program, which delivered $9.6 million for 42 projects in partnership with local councils. Queensland businesses with fewer than 20 employees and an annual turnover of $10 million or less remain eligible to apply for funding, with applications open until the 30th of June or until available funding is exhausted. Further information about the Secure Communities Partnership Program is available through www.business.qld.gov.au.
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Isaac Looks To The Future With Proposed $500 Million Fund Isaac Regional Council is proposing the creation of a long-term Future Fund designed to help safeguard essential services and financial stability for future generations as the region prepares for life beyond mining. The proposed Isaac Future Fund would gradually build a financial reserve using a portion of the region's current mining-related prosperity, with the aim of offsetting future revenue losses when mining activity eventually declines. Currently, almost 70 per cent of the council's rates income comes from the mining sector, creating what council describes as a significant future challenge when mines are decommissioned and mining leases are recategorised. To establish the fund, council is proposing to reduce the early payment rates discount for mining leases, workforce accommodation and renewable energy projects from 10 per cent to five per cent this year, before removing the remaining five per cent next year. All other ratepayer categories would continue to receive the full 10 per cent early payment discount. The change is expected to contribute approximately $3.2 million to the fund in its first year. Isaac Regional Council Mayor Kelly Vea Vea said the initiative was focused on protecting future communities from substantial rate increases needed to maintain services once mining revenue begins to decline. “The Future Fund is a long-term strategy intended to grow our own funds over the decades and used to replace mining sector income to maintain services to communities when mining eventually declines,” Mayor Vea Vea said. “We cannot rely on future governments to subsidise services and infrastructure when funding to local councils has already been reducing over time. Our Council knows that we need to generate our own revenue source to protect future generations from the long-term financial impact that is inevitable when we are so financially reliant on mining.” Council said the fund would not be financed by general ratepayers and would be protected from being spent for decades while it continues to grow. Once the fund reaches approximately $50 million, and subject to the necessary approvals, council intends to invest the money through the Queensland Investment Corporation to generate additional returns, with earnings reinvested back into the fund. The long-term target is to grow the Future Fund to around $500 million while preserving the principal for future generations. Mayor Vea Vea said the proposal reflected responsible long-term planning for the region. “Smart regions plan ahead and responsible leadership means thinking long term and beyond the next election or budget cycle. There are many hoops to jump through and a lot of work to do in order to get the Future Fund to where it needs to be. We have to start now.” Council has spent the past 12 months developing the proposal in consultation with the Queensland Treasury Corporation and pointed to similar investment funds established by other regional councils, including Western Downs. The Future Fund would remain subject to council governance, auditing and reporting requirements, with any future investment arrangements required to comply with Queensland local government legislation and council policies. CAPTION: Isaac Regional Council is proposing a new Future Fund designed to help protect community services and financial sustainability for future generations as the region prepares for the long-term impacts of a changing mining industry. Photo supplied
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I always appreciate a robust discussion in our community, and I welcome the feedback regarding my recent opinion piece, ‘Why We Must Restore Biological Reality to Our Laws’. It is clear that the issues surrounding the Sex Discrimination Act are deeply emotive, and I respect the passion shown by your anonymous correspondent. However, I feel it is necessary to clear up some significant misunderstandings. My original article was focused on a matter of legislative principle: the need for our laws to reflect biological reality to ensure certainty, safety, and privacy in spaces reserved for women and girls. My article did not mention transgender individuals, I believe it is unhelpful to misrepresent my position in such a way, the added inflammatory rhetoric attributed to me was not part of my statement. I also want to address the concerns raised regarding domestic violence. We are in total agreement that domestic violence is an absolute scourge on our society, and it is a topic I have spoken about many times in my capacity as your federal representative. However, suggesting that my call for biological clarity in law somehow enables violence is a complete distortion of my intent and misses the mark entirely. We can be a community that is compassionate and supportive of everyone, while still maintainingthe clear, common-sense laws that protect the rights of women and girls, these two goals are not mutually exclusive. My goal is to return that clarity to our statute books so that the law serves everyone equitably. Advocating for clear, sex-based protections is not an attack on the humanity or rights of others, it is a necessary step to ensure that the foundational legal boundaries, which many women rely on for their sense of security, are not quietly eroded. I welcome a robust debate, but I prefer it to be based on what I have actually said, rather than on motives or ideologies that have been attributed to me. I remain committed to finding common sense solutions that ensure fairness and safety for all in our community.
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A practical community support initiative will take place in Mackay this month, with Mackay Pet Rescue Inc preparing to assist men experiencing hardship alongside their pets at the Neighbourhood Hub during Men’s Week. The event will be held on June 10th from 9am to 12 noon and will provide essential supplies and services aimed at keeping men and their pets together during times of vulnerability. For many attending, pets are not simply companions but a source of stability during difficult circumstances. The initiative is designed to reduce pressure on both individuals and rescue services by offering direct, immediate assistance. The Men’s Week initiative will provide a range of support items including pet food, tents, sleeping bags, dog sleeping bags, hygiene packs and flea and worm treatments. A veterinarian will also be on site to provide additional medical care. The program has been supported through a grant from the Mackay Community Foundation, enabling the rescue to expand its outreach during the colder months. President of Mackay Pet Rescue Inc Janet Ambrose said the focus is on ensuring people are supported before situations reach crisis point. “We’re making sure they don’t fall through the cracks, and they are seen, because they’re just as important, and we want to help their pets as much as we can.” “If we can help someone that’s vulnerable, so that they don’t have to give up their pet, then that’s a win, not just for them, but for us as well.” Ms Ambrose said the work carried out by the organisation is grounded in compassion and community responsibility. “Many of the owners we assist are facing illness, ageing, are homeless or experience a sudden life change. Pets are extremely important to people, and often provide essential emotional support during uncertain times.” “We’re here to help, because this is what humanity is all about.” “A lot of people think we’re just helping animals, but we’re really helping their owners too.” Between now and June 10th residents are encouraged to support the initiative by donating pet food through collection bins located across Mackay. Donation points include Northern Beaches Vet Hospital, Petbarn Greenfields, Petstock Paget and Bucasia Road, Pets Domain Rural View, Woolworths stores at Mount Pleasant, Oak Street, Ooralea and Rural View, Coles at Parkside Plaza and Sarina, Sydney Street Markets, and Goodes Butchers Sarina. What? Mackay Pet Rescue Men’s Hardship Drive Where? The Neighbourhood Hub When? June 10th 9am-12pm Mackay Pet Rescue Inc will support men experiencing hardship and their pets, providing essential supplies, veterinary care, and community donations to help keep them together during times of vulnerability. Photo supplied
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Are we’re back with the creative corner. This week I finished the memoir ‘Just Kids’ by Patti Smith, a musician mainly known for her hit ‘Because the Night’. The book focuses on her move to New York as an aspiring artist in the late 60’s and chronicles her complicated yet deep relationship with photographer Robert Mapplethorpe.
What really inspired me about the book, was how many creative things Patti Smith did. Although she’s mainly known for her music, Smith wrote poetry, screenplays and plays – created art and even acted in avant-garde theatre. In a modern world that is incredibly fast-paced and busy – it can be easy to get boxed into one creative identity. Are you a musician? A painter? A writer?
What Patti Smith shows is that creativity transcends an identity or label. It is not a vocation or job title – it is a state of being. We can create many different types of things and they all inform each other. Creativity is not one path you choose or just a way of making money, it is a muscle that must be exercised and it can be exercised in many different ways.
This week I would encourage you to reflect on your creativity. If you’re known by one creative label, how about trying another? If you’re mainly a musician – why not try writing a screenplay? If you’re mainly an artist – why not try some poetry? You may find ways of expression you weren’t previously aware of.
This week’s winner is Alissa Tomlinson who submitted this photo titled ‘Engagement at Hydeaway Bay’, for the theme ‘New Beginnings.’
Next week’s theme will be “Fun”. Send your submissions to Whitsundays Amateur Photographers Group on Facebook.
These photographs are contributed by the Whitsundays Amateur Photographers Group
Madalene Gray was an astute businesswoman and tourism stalwart who was awarded Australia Day Citizen of the Year in 1992 in acknowledgement of her support of sporting clubs and organisations in the community.
But Madalene was much more than this. She was the matriarch of a happy family of nine children, eighteen grandchildren and fifteen great grandchildren as well as “Mum” to many others. Madalene was known for her hospitality, with her Telford Street home always welcoming guests and serving plenty of good food.
Before marrying Edward Gray in Brisbane in 1935, she worked as a clerk for the Gray family in their Brisbane operation manufacturing louvres. Madalene confessed to crying all the way on their journey to live in Proserpine but quickly settled into life in the country town and immersed herself into community life.
Initially, she and Eddie lived in Main Street behind the family’s furniture shop which was where Cherrie Baby is now located and they raised a family of nine children, including twins.
In 1936, Madalene and Eddie commenced their very successful sawmilling business. With a family of six children by this time, Madalene managed the office. Renowned for her knowledge of timber and her ability to run the timber yard, she could tell at a glance if an order was incomplete.
Keen for a change, in 1956, Madalene opened a dress salon called Jo Anne’s. She and her daughter Edna owned the shop when it was on Main Street, where Shoe Biz now stands.
In 1958, the Grays sold the sawmilling business and entered the tourism industry purchasing an ex-navy vessel, “Fairmile”, which they converted into a 32-berth tourist launch named “Esmeralda”. They became pioneers in overnight cruising in the Whitsundays, staying at sea five days every week. Madalene was hostess, barmaid, maitre’d, nurse and cleaner – with a family of nine children by this time. She was also “Mum” to the crew on the boat as well. When Shute Harbour was opened in 1961, the official luncheon was held on the “Esmeralda”. In 1963, the Grays sold “Esmeralda” and repurchased the sawmill.
Despite leading a very busy working life and family life, Madalene still found time to involve herself in the community. She was Life Member and Patron of Whitsunday Sailing Club. The Whitsunday Sailing Club believes that Madalene and Eddie Gray's generosity and active participation were essential to its development and success. They particularly supported junior sabot sailing and helped to establish the Learn to Sail school. As a measure of the regard within which they were held, in 1992, “Sabot Week” was dedicated to the Gray family.
She was also Life Member of the Proserpine Show Society and Patron of the Uniting Church Flower Show as well as being actively involved in all aspects of the Uniting Church. Madalene also supported many other community and sporting organisations and made costumes for the local theatre group.
Madalene Gray passed away on April 19, 1998, having lived a rich and full life, dedicating herself to both her family and her community.
Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum
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Madalene Gray
Tourism Whitsundays has entered a new chapter with the appointment of Katelyn Aslett as Chair, marking an important leadership transition for the region’s peak tourism body. Professionally known as Katelyn Aslett, Mrs Collins steps into the role with a breadth of experience that spans export development, aviation, strategic marketing, philanthropy and frontline regional tourism operations.
Currently the owner-operator of hospitality, bar and retail outlets at Whitsunday Coast Airport, Kate is directly involved in shaping visitor experiences at the region’s primary gateway. Her day-to-day engagement with travellers provides practical insight into the expectations of today’s domestic and international markets, as well as the opportunities and pressures facing local operators.
Kate said she was honoured to accept the position, describing the Whitsundays as one of Australia’s most iconic destinations and acknowledging the responsibility that comes with helping guide its future. She has committed to working collaboratively with operators, stakeholders and government to strengthen and grow the visitor economy in a way that is sustainable, strategic and inclusive.
Her career reflects a consistent focus on innovation and commercial leadership. As an independent fashion designer, manufacturer and retailer, she achieved national recognition for export excellence and secured an Australian Export Development Grant to support international market expansion. She represented Australian enterprise at major global trade and promotional events, including G’Day USA and international fashion weeks in Milan and Singapore. These experiences laid the foundation for a strong understanding of global markets and brand positioning.
Kate later served as Business Development and Marketing Manager for Adagold Aviation, a leading private jet operator involved in luxury tourism travel and government contract aviation. In that role, she worked extensively across Europe, the United States and South East Asia, building strategic commercial partnerships and navigating high level government relationships. The position required a careful balance of commercial acumen and diplomatic engagement, skills that will be valuable in destination advocacy and regional planning.
The Chair role carries significant responsibility. It involves strategic marketing oversight, government engagement, industry representation and long term planning to ensure the Whitsundays remain competitive in a rapidly evolving tourism landscape. Kate has signalled that unity, transparency and measurable outcomes will be central to her approach.
She has also acknowledged the broader footprint of tourism across the region. While visitor activity is concentrated in Airlie Beach and the islands, the economic benefits extend to Bowen, Collinsville and Proserpine. Tourism supports local businesses, families and jobs well beyond the coastline, reinforcing its status as the region’s economic engine. Ensuring every community connected to the visitor economy feels included and supported will be a priority.
Kate succeeds outgoing Chair Julie Telford, who has led the board since 2020. During a period defined by COVID-19 disruption and recovery, Julie provided steady leadership and helped strengthen partnerships across the industry. Chief Executive Officer Tim Booth paid tribute to her strategic insight and commitment, thanking her for guiding the organisation through challenging times and positioning the region for continued growth.
With her appointment taking effect immediately, Kate steps into the role at a time of opportunity and responsibility for one of Australia’s most celebrated destinations.
Easter in Australia is more than just chocolate eggs and long weekends—it’s an opportunity to gather family and friends around the table and celebrate with memorable meals. From the sunny southern states to tropical Queensland, the holiday inspires a variety of seasonal dishes that reflect both tradition and local flavours.
No Easter table is complete without a show-stopping roast. Australians often opt for a juicy leg of lamb, seasoned with rosemary, garlic, and a hint of lemon, paired with roasted vegetables and golden potatoes. For those seeking lighter fare, fresh seafood, such as prawns and barramundi, offers a refreshing alternative, especially in warmer coastal regions.
Sweet treats also play a starring role. Hot cross buns, a symbol of Easter tradition, are enjoyed across the country, whether plain, spiced, or studded with chocolate chips. Modern twists include versions with tangy orange glaze or caramelised pecans. For dessert, pavlova adorned with fresh berries and passionfruit brings a distinctly Australian flair, combining crisp meringue with creamy topping and tropical fruits.
For families, DIY chocolate nests and carrot cakes remain popular, doubling as a fun activity and a delicious finale. Local ingredients—from macadamias to native wattleseed—add unique flavours that make Easter meals truly special.
Easter is a time to indulge, share, and experiment in the kitchen. These recipes are not just about sustenance—they are a celebration of community, seasonality, and Australian culinary creativity. Whether you stick to tradition or innovate with modern flavours, there’s no better time to make your Easter table unforgettable.
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Photo source: Shutterstock
Whitsunday Law is proud to be a Platinum Sponsor of this year’s Proserpine Show Ball, and even prouder to support an event that brings our local community together in true country style.
With this year’s theme “Pretty in the Paddock”, we’re looking forward to a night of boots, ball gowns, great company and celebrating everything that makes our region special.
And yes we've already got our tickets... the entire Whitsunday Law team will be there!
So if you see us frocked up (or attempting to be), please come and say hello. We love supporting local events, and we love catching up with familiar faces even more.
At Whitsunday Law, community matters. Whether we’re assisting with property, Wills and estates, business matters or life’s unexpected curveballs, we’re proud to stand alongside the people and organisations that make the Whitsundays what it is.
We can’t wait to celebrate with you.
See you at the Ball.
Whitsunday Law
Practical. Trusted. Local.
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Photo source: Facebook
The Garden Bar sits right on the edge of Coral Sea Marina, where island views, sea breezes and relaxed coastal elegance shape the way guests dine, drink and unwind.
At the heart of the experience is our team - warm, welcoming and passionate about bringing a little “island ease” to every plate. In the kitchen our trio of dedicated chefs from around the globe each bring their own heritage, techniques and love of fresh, honest cooking. Their diverse backgrounds bring depth, colour and creativity to every menu evolution.
This upcoming season, we’re excited to showcase a refreshed menu featuring both new favourites and elevated classics. Expect Tempura Vegetables with a crisp, delicate finish; a silky Deconstructed Cheesecake that’s light yet indulgent; a rotating Fish of the Daypaired with seasonal produce; and vibrant salad and vegetarian options crafted for warm Whitsunday days.
The venue itself offers a choice of beautiful spaces - each with its own charm. Our lush garden area is a favourite for long, relaxed lunches under the cassia tree; the undercover deck is ideal for warm afternoons and soft-lit evenings; and everywhere you sit, you’re surrounded by marina and island views that shift beautifully with every sunset.
Guests can also enjoy live acoustic music every Sunday from 1:30pm, creating the perfect soundtrack for an easy afternoon by the water. For celebrations, we offer a dedicated functions menu, including handcrafted function cocktails and specialty grazing platters designed to elevate any event.
Whether you’re joining us for a casual afternoon bite, sunset cocktails or a special celebration, you’ll find an inviting, effortless coastal atmosphere that keeps both locals and visitors returning.
Marigold, affectionately known as Mari, is an 11-year-old gentle soul who is ready to spend her golden years in comfort, safety and love.
Mari is shy when first meeting new people and can be sensitive to loud noises. However, once she feels safe, her calm and affectionate nature begins to shine. Mari is happiest in a low stress environment.
A domestic medium hair with a soft presence, Mari has low to medium energy. She is independent yet affectionate, litter trained and suited to an indoor only lifestyle.
Her ideal home would be a quiet, low traffic household. She would do well with a single person, a couple, or a calm family without young children.
Marigold has been desexed, microchipped and vaccinated. She has no known ongoing medical issues. Her adoption fee is $100.
Mari deserves warmth, comfort and a home where her gentle spirit will be cherished. Those interested in learning more or applying to adopt Marigold are encouraged to contact Bowen and Collinsville Pet Rescue. Sharing her story may help this sweet senior girl find the quiet home she so richly deserves.
Contact bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com.
Tonya Dunne, owner and personal trainer at A FIT LIFE by Tonya, has spent the last decade transforming lives through fitness. Her journey began as a full-time mother of two, where exercise became her anchor amidst the chaos of motherhood, promoting both physical and mental well-being.
After six years as a client of the fitness classes she now offers, Tonya was inspired to become a personal trainer. In 2016, she gained her certification and took over a business started by a close friend. Her mission was simple: to provide others with the same life-changing fitness opportunities she had experienced.
Over the past ten years, A FIT LIFE by Tonya has flourished, with loyal clients returning year after year. Tonya’s greatest joy is seeing her clients—especially the women—grow stronger, more confident, and prioritize their health. With expertise in personal training, weight management, and menopause coaching, Tonya offers a comprehensive approach to fitness that helps clients achieve their physical, emotional, and mental goals.
Tonya's approach is built on honesty, reliability, and a commitment to empowering others. She has created a supportive, educational environment with smaller class sizes, fostering a sense of community. Clients feel safe knowing they have a coach who genuinely cares about their success.
Looking ahead, Tonya plans to continue growing her business while staying true to the values that have made it successful. She is committed to furthering her education and helping clients through all stages of their fitness journeys. “I plan on staying right where I am,” Tonya says, “continuing to support women (and men) through all stages of their fitness lives.”
Her advice to aspiring businesswomen: “Believe in yourself, your talents are unique. Compare only with yourself to do better each day.” Tonya’s story proves that consistency, persistence, and self-belief can lead to success.
When she’s not working, Tonya enjoys hiking, boating with her family, and camping with friends. Annual trips to Perth to visit family provide a much-needed recharge.
With ten years of experience and a clear vision for the future, Tonya continues to inspire those around her, proving that with dedication and a positive mindset, anything is possible.
This International Women’s Day, Tassal is proud to shine a light on the women helping shape the future of aquaculture across our business Australia-wide. One of them is Holly, a dedicated Hatchery and Prawn Health Technician at our Proserpine Prawn Farm in the stunning Whitsundays.
The farm is home to premium tiger prawn production, with a strong focus on sustainable farming, local employment and community partnerships across the region. Holly Dubois said Tassal has become the perfect place to build a hands-on career in an industry she loves.
Holly started as a casual Hatchery Technician, but her enthusiasm and capability meant she became full-time very quickly. Today, she splits her year between the farm and the hatchery. During Summer and Autumn, she works outdoors as part of the Prawn Health team, monitoring prawns, stocking ponds and supporting harvest preparations. In Winter and Spring, she moves into the hatchery, helping to breed and grow the next generation of prawns. Her work includes feeding post larvae, managing water quality, treating tanks and producing algae cultures.
Holly says Tassal appealed to her because it offered a safe workplace, opportunities to develop her skills and a supportive team culture.
“The people make the biggest difference,” she said.
“And being only 30 minutes from Airlie Beach is a bonus.”
The Proserpine farm plays an important role in the region, not only producing high-quality prawns but also supporting local schools, sporting groups, conservation efforts and community events. Holly said she is proud to be part of that impact both in her work and in the community she calls home.
This International Women’s Day, Tassal celebrates Holly and all the women driving innovation, growth and sustainability in aquaculture across the Whitsundays and beyond.
CAPTION: This International Women’s Day, Tassal is proud to shine a light on Holly, a Hatchery and Prawn Health Technician at our Proserpine Prawn Farm. Photo supplied
What if success wasn’t about doing more — but about living better?
For Mental Health Clinician and Founder of Personal Transitions, Sharon Ashman, her professional motto says it all: “Turn life into living.” It’s a simple phrase, but it carries depth especially for women balancing ambition, family, responsibility, and self-care.
With proud Irish heritage and a grounded outlook, Sharon believes lasting success begins with inner strength. Passion matters. So does integrity. But just as important are patience and steady determination. “We are our business,” she says, particularly in health and wellbeing. If we are exhausted, disconnected, or running on empty, it shows — not only in our work, but in our homes.
Sharon’s journey is a reminder that careers don’t need to follow a straight line to be meaningful. Her first professional highlight was working as a chef with Hilton International in Europe, a role that demanded discipline, teamwork, and resilience. From there, she moved into teaching, natural medicine, and eventually completed a Master’s in Mental Health Nursing. Each chapter added another layer of understanding about people, pressure, and perseverance.
Today, her work with children, adolescents, and families, particularly in ADHD and Autism, centres on building emotional regulation and self-belief. When a young person learns to manage overwhelming feelings, or an adult rediscovers confidence, that is success. Those quiet victories matter more than numbers on a balance sheet.
Inspired by Viktor Frankl and his book Man's Search for Meaning, Sharon believes purpose mixed with passion is what carries us through hard seasons. She also embraces the Japanese philosophy of Ikigai, suggesting the meeting point between what you love, what you’re good at, what the world needs, and what can sustain you. When those elements come together, work no longer feels like survival.
For every woman reading this: your path may twist and turn. There may be pauses, pivots, and brave new beginnings. But if you stay connected to your values and care for your inner world, you won’t just build a career.
You’ll turn life into living.
personaltransitions.com.au
Lisa Dunn has mastered the art of balancing business and family.
Alongside her husband Sean, Lisa plays an integral role across three local businesses: Irrigear Whitsundays, Dunnrite Plumbing Services, and The Organised Life Whitsundays. Add two young children into the mix, and life is rarely quiet!
The Dunns’ business journey began with Dunnrite Plumbing Services, launched in 2020. Sean drove the business strategy, while Lisa’s focus naturally centred on people, relationships, and culture.
“When people feel valued, supported and cared for, everything else follows,” Lisa says.
In 2022, Lisa co-founded The Organised Life Whitsundays with her close friend Alia, inspired by her own experience of how overwhelming modern life can feel. The goal was simple — to help others regain a sense of calm and control in their homes and schedules.
Taking over Irrigear Whitsundays in 2025 marked the next bold step for the Dunns. Lisa refers to this as a career highlight, expressing her gratitude to the experienced and capable team who took the transition in their stride.
“Honestly, they make my job easier,” Lisa laughs, “some days they make me look far more organised than I actually am.”
Lisa’s resilience and adaptability was shaped long before she entered the business world. Born in Zimbabwe, she later lived in the UK before eventually settling in Australia to be close to family here. The presence of old friends drew Lisa to the Whitsundays, but the laidback lifestyle, strong community and family feel, caused her to stay.
Now, sharing her home with Sean’s sister and her children, two dogs, a cat, a guinea pig named Cinnamon, and a few fish, the house is basically organised chaos.
“It’s busy both at home and in business,” Lisa explains, “fuelled by lots and lots of coffee — but it’s also full of love and laughter.”
“At the end of the day, I’m just doing my best to juggle motherhood, business, and life, and I’m incredibly grateful to be surrounded by people who make that possible.”
1- Lisa Dunn, matriarch at the helm of three family businesses. Photo credit: R Jean Photography
The Whitsundays has long been a sought-after place to tie the knot – but this year, we’re inviting couples to fall head over heels all over again.
Weddings Whitsundays – powered by the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry – is delighted to unveil the first-ever Whitsundays Wedding Trail, taking place on Sunday 14 June 2026.
It promises to be a match made in paradise.
We’re saying goodbye to the traditional, one-room bridal expo and hello to something far more swoon-worthy.
The Wedding Trail will be an immersive, region-wide event designed to showcase the Whitsundays in all its glory. Instead of walking through a crowded function room, engaged couples will embark on a curated journey through eight of the region's breathtaking venues.
Each venue will be styled to perfection and transformed into a “mini-expo,” featuring a hand-picked selection of the region’s most talented suppliers — from florists and stylists to celebrants, caterers, photographers, entertainers and more.
Couples won’t just collect business cards; they’ll experience each space as it could look on their own big day, meet vendors face-to-face, and start building connections that feel like the real deal.
Calling All Suppliers: EOIs Now Open!
If you’re in the wedding business, this is your moment to shine before the bouquet is thrown.
The Wedding Trail offers an unparalleled opportunity to showcase your services to highly motivated couples, supported by a targeted marketing campaign reaching Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria.
Expressions of Interest are now officially open.
Whether you are a videographer, hair and makeup artist, or entertainer, we want to see your talent on the trail. Member and non-member pricing tiers are available.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this landmark event.
Email Weddings Whitsundays on hello@weddingswhitsundays.com for more information and help us showcase why there is no better place to say "I do" than the Whitsundays.
Contributed with thanks to the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce & Industry
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Mr and Mrs Patton
Photo supplied
The team at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre have been busy this week, gaining their accreditation status for another year.
Accredited Visitor Information Centres need to meet a high standard in service, local knowledge and visitor support.
All accredited centres have a yellow and blue “I” meaning the accredited centres are recognisable for travellers.
As part of the accreditation process, the team must provide evidence of local knowledge and documentation relating to such things as policies and processes, insurance and opening hours.
All accredited Visitor Information Centres must open for a minimum of 42 hours per week, including opening on weekends.
Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said the team of staff and volunteers were very proud to provide excellent customer service to more than 50,000 visitors per year.
“We are proud to operate an accredited centre, showing our commitment to excellent visitor services and industry-leading standards.”
The on-site audit this week was carried out by The Tourism Group’s Business Development Manager, Jeremy Miller.
“It was a pleasure to visit the Bowen VIC,” he said.
“It is a stand-out centre, beautifully presented, meeting the highest of standards and with a great team of staff and volunteers.”
There are about 100 accredited centres in Queensland.
Bowen is currently the only accredited Visitor Information Centre in the Whitsundays.
Contributed with thanks to Bowen Tourism and Business
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Bowen Tourism and Business team members, Glenn Womal, Leanne Abernethy and Cindy Tonks with Business Development Manager for the Tourism Group, Jeremy Miller.
The Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network hosted their first BBQ brekky of 2026 on Friday 27th February in Cannonvale. Many gathered to show their support for a cause that is incredibly important to the region. There were great chats and laughter as many enjoyed the sausages, hashbrowns, bacon and other breakfast foods supplied thanks to Food From the Heart Airlie Beach and Master Butchers Whitsunday & MBW On the Barbie. The network were grateful to have the event sponsored by Pacific Coast Scaffold.
Ash Telford from Red Cat Adventures and SeaLink Whitsundays was the guest speaker and spoke of his own struggles with mental health, encouraging people to be vulnerable and support each other when times get tough. He stated that it was of the upmost importance to reach out and provide safe spaces for people so that they can get the help they need.
Mental health continues to be an ongoing problem across the region. The Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network remain dedicated to helping as many people as possible, providing community spaces so that everyone is aware of the support that is available.
These events are crucial to show support to many who struggle in the region and proves that they do not have to go through it alone. A great thanks to the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention for hosting the event – they have a great deal of events planned for 2026 and will continue to support those in need. It is a reminder that you do not have to go through hard times alone. There is a wealth of community support and people to reach out to.
Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi
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