The spirit of community was on full display as the Mackay region gathered for a memorable night of pride, gratitude and celebration at the 2026 Mackay Regional Council Australia Day Awards.

With more than 186 nominations submitted, the awards recognised 98 outstanding individuals and community groups whose dedication, passion and service continue to shape the region.

Mayor Greg Williamson said, “Choosing a winner in each category was a real challenge,” this year.

“The volume of outstanding nominations truly reflects the incredible community we are fortunate to be part of.

“These awards wouldn’t exist without your efforts, so thank you for helping us shine a spotlight on our local heroes.”

The 2026 Australia Day Award recipients are as follows:

• Citizen of the Year: Col Benson
• Young Citizen Award: Amelia Bishop
• Lori Burgess Community Volunteer Award: Edie Weiss
• Senior Sports Award: Daniel Mayfeld
• Young Sports Award: Ayla Moon
• Community Group Award: Mackay parkrun
• Arts and Culture Award: Nicole Thomson
• Environmental Achievement Award: Dr Alison Pighills
• Access and Inclusion Achievement Award: Krystal Demaid

Ayla Moon and Nicole Thomson were absent on the night of the awards

Congratulations to all winners and nominees recognised for their outstanding contributions to the Mackay community!

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Find the pics here!: https://tinyurl.com/2bg69tdf

Hi Whitsundays!

I’m not sure if I’ve ever formally introduced myself to you all before, but hi, I’m Chelsea.

I’ve been working behind the scenes of Whitsunday Life for around a year now, however, I’ve been writing for Burdekin Life for over two years. Although I’ve been working alongside the talented Life Publishing team for what feels like forever, this month saw me enter the office for the VERY FIRST TIME!

I grew up in Ayr, yet for the past couple of years, I’ve been writing the stories of North Queensland from Brisbane, the United States, Africa and all over Europe!

I spent the entirety of last year travelling and exploring the world; skydiving over the island of O’ahu, sandboarding down the dunes of the Sahara Desert and making millions of memories and friends across the globe. I hope one day soon you all find yourself in a position to pack a suitcase and book a one-way ticket because as cliché as it sounds, it’ll be one of the best experiences of your life!

In just a week, I’ll set off on my next adventure, but for now, I’ve very much enjoyed indulging in the serenity of the Whitsundays and staying with my grandparents at our family’s holiday house in Adelaide Point.

Send me an email at Chelsea@LifePublishingGroup.Com and say g’day. I’d love to continue sharing your stories and meeting you all!

Until next time, have a great read, and a great week!
Chelsea.

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In light of recent weather events, including Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji, residents have been looking out for one another, citing local damage across the region and posting warnings on private community pages to ensure the safety of others.

A helpful local recently shared a heads-up for anyone travelling between Collinsville and Bowen. They spotted a large water-filled pothole near the railway crossing by Terry’s Creek and warned others to take care.

The post reminded drivers that the pothole is easily avoidable if you spot it in time and watch for oncoming traffic. Simple advice like this can make a huge difference, especially during the wet season when road hazards pop up quickly.

It’s a great example of locals looking out for locals — sharing tips, keeping each other safe, and helping everyone get home without incident. If you see something on the road that could be dangerous, don’t keep it to yourself — let your neighbours know and report the incident to Whitsunday Regional Council's Customer Service Centre by calling 1300 972 753.

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Residents have been looking out for one another following local damage from Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji. Photo source: Shutterstock

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A Whitsunday Anglican School student has been hailed for his bravery after helping rescue two people from the ocean during the severe weather brought by Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji.

Byron Goodin, a Year 12 boarding student, was in the car with his parents near Cannonvale Beach when they stopped to assist a local man whose boat was stuck in nearby mangroves. Soon after, they were alerted that people were stranded in the rough surf.

“At that point, I just ran down to the beach to see what I could do,” Byron recalled.

Alongside three other bystanders, Byron entered the water in treacherous conditions, including heavy rain, debris, and strong winds. The group located two people about 20 to 30 metres from shore and helped bring them safely back to land.

“Their boat had capsized and split in two. They were really fatigued and shaken up,” Byron said.

“You could only see them when they came up on the waves, but once we reached them, the water was shallow enough to help them get back safely.”

Despite having no formal rescue training, Byron credits instinct, community support, and a strong sense of responsibility.

“If someone’s in danger and you’re able to help, I feel like you just have to, it’s the Australian way,” he said.

Byron’s parents said they were proud of his actions, though he remains characteristically modest.

“I think it’s just something you grow up with,” Byron explained. “It comes from family, my school and the wider community. Helping others is just part of who we are.”

Whitsunday Anglican School Principal Andrew Wheaton praised Byron for demonstrating courage and compassion.

“Byron demonstrated true courage, compassion and determined judgment in what was a very difficult situation,” Mr Wheaton said.

“We are incredibly proud of the way he and others responded, putting the safety of others first. True service in action, and we applaud their bravery.”

As he prepares to begin his final year of schooling, Byron hopes the focus remains on community and looking out for one another.

“Anyone would have done the same thing,” he said.

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Byron Goodin assists with water rescue. Photo credit: Mike Duff
Whitsunday Anglican School's Byron Goodin. Photo source: Whitsunday Anglican School

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Dr Julia Evans admits she was “gobsmacked” when she learned she had been nominated for Citizen of the Year. The nomination came as a complete surprise to Julia, who prefers to work quietly behind the scenes rather than seek recognition for her efforts.

“It was not the intention,” she said.

“You don’t set out to get the accolades. I think if you do set out to get recognition, then the outcomes  may look different.”

Julia and her husband Richard relocated to the region in early 2022, arriving without established networks but with a clear intention to become active members of the community.

Being part of the community was something extremely important to them both.

Julia had spent much of her career consulting with organisations across Australia. She also runs 852 Press, a publishing services company established during the pandemic to help everyday Australians navigate the self-publishing process.

Soon after arriving in the region, Julia joined the local Chamber of Commerce, initially wanting to join as a member before seeing the liaison role advertising. She joined at a pivotal time with the Whitsundays Chamber and Proserpine Chamber combining.

From there, her involvement expanded organically, she recalls that people in regional areas wear multiple hats and are always giving back where they can, to benefit the community.

Over the past three years, Julia has been involved in a wide range of voluntary initiatives, including supporting the fundraising campaign to rebuild the Proserpine Whitsunday Uniting Church, helping revive the region’s Writers Festival in 2024, serving on the board of Bendigo Community Bank, and acting as a strategic advisor to Creative Connections Whitsundays.

She describes her contributions as a “package of work” rather than a list of individual achievements, much of it focused on connecting people, facilitating conversations and making business connect.

Underlying Julia’s approach is a strong personal philosophy centred on service, integrity and shared responsibility.

“If you’ve got skills and you’ve got the willingness and ability, you have an obligation to give back,” she said.

But she believes contribution comes with responsibility and trust first.

By training, Julia is a philosopher, with a doctorate focused on small business education in Australia, research that has informed government submissions and attracted attention from national regulators. While the title occasionally earns her the affectionate nickname ‘Dr J’, she is quick to downplay it.

Despite the honour of the nomination,  Julia admits being in the spotlight feels uncomfortable.

She loves the behind-the-scenes work. For example, she  has heavily involved in the Whitsundays Business Conference and the Whitsunday  Business Award collaboration with Council and Bowen Chamber of Commerce. Bringing things to life from master plans and run sheets is where she gets the most joy and reward.

Rather than focusing on her own recognition, Julia says she is looking forward to learning more about the other nominees, their  contributions being made across the community and hearing their story.

“Our community is only as strong as what we all put into it,” she said.

“It’s not one person’s or one organisation’s responsibility. We all have a role to play.

“Communities thrive when people share their skills, act with care, and keep trying to do better for each other and for the future.”

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Julia Evans. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Funding is in place from both state and federal governments to help people recover from damage and flooding brought on by ex-tropical cyclone Koji and extreme weather.

$26.6 Milllion in Federal Government Funding
The Albanese and Crisafulli Governments have today committed a further $26.6 million towards long-term recovery in flood devastated parts of north, north-west and central Queensland.

This funding will target recovery for primary producers, small businesses, flood clean-up, and mental health support.

Measures include an $11.32 million Primary Producer Support Package for impacted farmers, $9.98 million Disaster Recovery Grants for small businesses and a $4.26 million Mental Health Program to fund psychosocial health and wellbeing intiatives for flood affected communities and vulnerable Queenslanders.

Flood Hardship Payments
The Whitsunday Council can access DRFA support for their response and recovery activities with disaster loans of up to $250,000 available for impacted small businesses across Burdekin, Mackay and Whitsunday.

Sport and Racing Club Recovery
The Crisafulli Government is delivering financial assistance for eligible Queensland sport and racing organisations impacted by recent significant weather events. Grants of up to $5000 are accessible through the Crisafulli Government’s Disaster Recovery Program. Funding is available now, with the Crisafulli Government’s Sport and Recreation Disaster Recovery Program (SRDRP) open for the next three months to help organisations affected by ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji and the North Queensland Monsoon Trough. This funding seeks to rebuild vital sporting facilities that were adversely impacted across the region.

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Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins and Premier David Crisafulli visited disaster affected areas last week. Photo source: Whitsunday Regional Council

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By Sebastian Conidi

Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc have been hard at work cleaning the seas and foreshores in the aftermath of Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji. The not-for-profit organisation have put in extra hours to minimise the damage of ocean debris on natural habitats and wildlife.

"Our main initiative is tackling marine debris - so when an event like this happens it does a lot of damage to boats and things wash up onshore," said programs co-ordinator Kelly Cronin.

"That will end up having an impact on marine life if we don't tackle it on land. We really hold the community together to try and help out as much as we can."

The team of volunteers have been cleaning up across the sea and on land in the weeks following the extreme weather event. More than 150 volunteers worked alongside the Eco Barge crew during the operation, aiding with smaller debris and hazardous fragments to protect marine life and coastal environments during this critical recovery period.

Despite the efforts, the impact on local marine life won't be seen immediately.

"Our goal is to try and remove that thread as much as possible so that when tides and winds change it doesn't all float back out into the islands and reef. It will impact water quality which does then negatively impact marine life."

The initiative has been met with great community support.

"A lot people have been joining the community and cleaning up as much as they can, which is great. It definitely makes our life a bit easier."

Eco Barge have cleaned at sites across Cannonvale and Airlie Beach thanks to the support of volunteers. The team managed to remove more than 9 tonnes of debris in just five days - a commendable effort. Volunteering is always open for long term cleaning initiatives and can be done through the sign up page on their website.

"It's been amazing seeing all the help. Many hands make really light work. The Whitsunday Regional Council have been really supportive as well," said Kelly.

Land based cleanups with a tip truck were funded entirely through ongoing public donations, ensuring a swift response to the unplanned event.

"After a cyclone, time matters," said Libby Edge, Founder & CEO of Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc.

"The debris was sitting right on our foreshores. If it wasn't removed quickly, it would have ended up in our bays and around our islands, impacting marine life and places our community care about."

Eco Barge have been dedicated to keeping seas clean for 16 years, removing more than 70 tonnes of debris from post-storm and cyclone events along the Airlie to Cannonvale coastlines.

"This was an urgnet response, not a planned event", Libby said.

"The ability to mobilise so quickly comes from long term-community support and strong local partnerships."

Volunteers were generously thanked with meals and ice-cream from Gelatissimo and Zambrero.

It is great to see the work being done to ensure the protection of Whitsunday's beautiful marine environments.

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The team cleaning at Cannonvale Beach.

Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi

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By Sebastian Conidi

At just 21, Airlie Beach local Hugo Van Blarcom has achieved impressive feats in the world of sailing, although he did not discover his passion as early as expected. After losing his father at 16, Hugo was encouraged by his mum to start working on boats, helping him find a sense of purpose. While working on sailing boats in Airlie Beach, Hugo fell in love with the racing side of the sport, first competing in Airlie Beach Race Week.

“It’s one of those things I fell in love with straight away,” Hugo said.

Having completed a series of local races, Hugo turned his attention to offshore racing. In recent years, he has competed in the Brisbane to Gladstone, Sydney to Southport, and Southport to Mackay races, earning awards and trophies along the way.

Hugo then decided to take the plunge, committing more time to racing by competing in Airlie Beach Race Week, Hamilton Island Race Week, and Magnetic Island Race Week, completing two and a half months of consecutive sailing. After moving to Sydney in September, Hugo sailed up to four times a week, taking advantage of the many offshore opportunities the city offered. He eventually decided to participate in the iconic Sydney to Hobart race.

“It was just an incredible experience. It was an honour to be able to do it on such a great boat.”

Hugo had the privilege of racing on the legendary Bacardi, an iconic yacht that has competed in countless races over the past few decades.

“For me, the first 36 hours were quite shocking. At the end of the day, however, it is another yacht race. When you love something so much and you really commit to it, you will go through anything to get it done and reach the finish line.”

Hugo credits the Whitsunday community with playing an important role in fostering his passion for sailing.

“Everyone I have ever sailed with has always been a big supporter. Back in Airlie Beach, I sailed on the Treasure8, run by Rob Davis. Rob has always been a huge influence in my sailing life. He was friends with my dad and has been a bit of a father figure to me. Every time we go sailing, it is just so much fun. He is the king of dad jokes.”

Support for Hugo’s career extends throughout the broader community.

“I had support from everyone at the club, from commodores and presidents to members and punters.”

That support reaches beyond sailing, with Hugo reflecting on how the Whitsundays’ community spirit helps keep people motivated.

“It’s a nice feeling when everyone bands together. It’s something you don’t get much in other places. When you need people, or people need you, you’re there for them, no questions asked. Everyone puts aside their differences and comes together as one.”

Like many sailors, Hugo feels a deep connection to the water, which continues to drive his passion.

“There’s definitely some sort of connection to the water. As soon as I go offshore, I put my phone away and embrace the whole experience.”

With so many achievements already under his belt, it is clear Hugo is primed for a successful sailing career. The Whitsunday community will be watching his journey with great enthusiasm.

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Photo supplied

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Record Numbers Signal Global Rise

With the Whitsunday Coast Airport recording the highest monthly passenger numbers in its history - such figures demonstrate the region is moving beyond it's reputation as a seasonal gateway, rather, transforming into an international hub.

Official airline figures for December confirmed that 53,915 passengers travelled through the airport, marking a 13% increase year-on-year with a third consecutive month exceeding 50,000 passengers. The results demonstrate that such activity is not a one off spike, but part of a growing and sustained trend.

Although activity was once seasonal - driven by holiday peaks and post-pandemic recovery - such movement now signifies high volume demand, demonstrating the Whitsunday regions development into a more globally competitive space.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins emphasised the importance of momentum as opposed to figures of a single record month.

"One record month is exciting. Three in a row signal something much bigger," said Ry.

"It shows the Whitsundays is no longer just a peaked-season destination, but a place people are choosing consistently from across Australia and internationally."

Mayor Collins clarified the significance of sustained growth and how it aligned with the regions rising profile for international-standard tourism, events and marine activity - where reliable access and capacity are critical.

It is clear this growth in activity signals a great boost for the Whitsunday's region, as the council seeks to bolster industry, strengthening the economy and promoting interest for the future.

"The momentum will become increasingly important as the Whitsundays continues to position itself for future international sailing oppurtuinities in the lead-up to Brisbane 2032."

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Photo Source: Whitsunday Regional Council

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Staying active in the Whitsundays just got a whole lot more fun, thanks to local mobile fitness business 4 Fitness, which is bringing flexible workouts to both land and water.

Operating locally for the past two years, 4 Fitness is led by owner and personal trainer Ellie Palmero, who has built a loyal following by taking fitness out of the gym and into the community. From living rooms and backyards to resort pools and the Proserpine Pool, Ellie’s approach is all about accessibility, variety, and enjoying movement.

One of the standout offerings is the popular aqua fitness program, welcoming both locals and visitors looking to stay active while soaking up the Whitsundays lifestyle. Held at Whitsunday Resorts and the Proserpine Pool, Ellie runs three aqua fitness sessions each week, along with a crowd-favourite deep-water running class all available for just $10 per session, with no bookings required.

If you’ve never tried aqua fitness, it’s an effective workout. Using specialised aquatic dumbbells, noodles, and aqua belts, for clients to enjoy a full-body session that builds strength and fitness while being kind to the joints.

“The water gives you great resistance without the impact,” Ellie said.

“You can take it easy or really push yourself everyone works at their own pace, and all fitness levels are welcome.”

The deep-water running sessions are making a splash of their own, using aqua belts in the deep end of the pool to fire up core muscles and deliver a challenging workout that goes well beyond simple running motions.

No two classes are ever the same, with varied playlists and rotating focuses on legs, arms, core, cardio, and stretching keeping things fresh rain or shine.

For those who prefer one on one support, 4 Fitness also offers mobile personal training, meeting clients at home or in their preferred location. Programs are fully tailored, whether the goal is strength, weight loss, general fitness, or living a better lifestyle.

“For people who don’t feel confident walking into a gym, this is a great alternative,” Ellie said.

“It’s about helping people move more, feel better, and enjoy a healthier lifestyle.”

With strong local support and a growing mix of residents and travellers joining in, 4 Elements Fitness is continuing to build momentum proving that fitness in the Whitsundays can be flexible, welcoming, and a whole lot of fun.

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Happy New Year! Our Whitsundays office has delivered an exceptional result for a highly specialised team of just three agents.

In 2025 we achieved multiple record-breaking sales, setting new benchmarks across the region. From much-loved family homes to the Whitsundays’ most significant estates, our results reflect a consistent, strategic approach, regardless of price point.

We don’t define luxury by a price, it is defined by experience, presentation, global reach and execution. Exceptional care, insight and professionalism are applied to every property we represent.

As a locally based team who live and invest in the Whitsundays, we are proud to see continued momentum building into 2026, with further growth on the horizon.

Queensland Sotheby’s Whitsundays remains the agency of choice in the region, whether selling a family home or an iconic coastal estate.

We wish everyone a prosperous 2026.

Thinking of selling? Let’s talk.

Wayne Singleton 0416 024 168
Lynn Milsom 0415 039 060
Joe Bishop 0415 070 114

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Going to court? You don’t have to go alone.

Facing court can be daunting, but you don’t have to figure it out by yourself. We’ll help you understand the process, what to expect, and what you can do to get the best outcome.

From minor offences to more serious matters, we offer clear advice and experienced advocacy.

Whitsunday Law – Support, not speeches. (Unless we’re giving one for you.)

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The Festive Season has been and gone, with its familiar rhythm.  That frenzy of activity as we try to get work and family organized in the lead up, and then the beautiful relax as we kick back for a well-deserved break with family and friends.

With most having at least a week off and starting to slow down over Xmas, our thoughts often reflect on the last 12 months as we come to the big reset that is New Year’s Eve.  It’s a good time to look backwards and reflect but also to look forwards and plan, when our mind has had Xmas to wind down from the daily grind and we can think clearly.

The trick with those New Years resolutions is to actually follow them through.  We go back to work and progressively get wound back up and all those resolutions get steamrolled by ‘life’.  The key is to do something small and quick before it’s too late.

They say a journey of a thousand miles starts with one step.  The smaller that first step the better.  If you want to get fitter, call the Personal Trainer or gym and book that first trial session.  If you want to play sport, drop down to that first training session.  Just starting creates momentum as you meet people, and that connection helps build on your internal commitment to coming back.

If you want to change something financially, book that first meeting with your financial planner, accountant, or mortgage broker.  If you plan on doing some research prior to the meeting, book the appointment first.  Once you’ve made that first appointment you’re committed.  You will still have time before that appointment to read through their website and do your research.

Plan your retirement, review your protection strategy on your super pension, minimize your tax, reduce your loan interest, get a better super fund, get fitter, build your social network.  We all know we should do these sorts of things.

One of the many things events like cyclones teach us, is not to take what we have for granted.  You never know when it would be taken away or severely affected by factors out of your control.

Make 2026 the year you make that move.

If you’d like an obligation free review of your financial situation, call us for an appointment today.

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After years of building a successful career on the Gold Coast, local real estate agent Kath Barker has returned to the Whitsundays with a fresh perspective on the industry choosing to go out on her own and offer something a little different, Compass Realty Whitsundays.

Having first lived in the region in the late 1980s and early 90s, Kath has strong ties to the area.

“My dad lived here for many years, and when my husband suggested moving back, at first I thought he was crazy. But once we made the move, it just felt right.”

With a background in both construction and real estate, she has combined her knowledge of property with her desire to provide a more personalised service. Instead of handling dozens of listings at once, she has deliberately positioned herself as a boutique, independent agent.

“I only take on a small number of listings at any one time,” she explained.

“Clients of mine get a really good, personalised service.

“I'm there. I answer the phone. I go and meet with them. I'm the one who does the open homes. I'm the one who answers all their inquiries, and I am the direct link between them and their buyer.”

Kath has sold lots of properties over the years, and understands that it is a stressful and emotional process.

Her career in real estate began on the Gold Coast, where she worked for LJ Hooker, one of the region’s largest agencies. The fast-paced environment gave her valuable experience but also left her burnt out. “At one point I had 20 listings and hundreds of inquiries coming in every day, it was full on,” she said.

In the 18 months since launching her independent business, Kath has steadily grown her Compass Realty Whitsundays clientele through word of mouth and networking. From helping local families to selling property remotely for interstate clients she’s never even met in person, she has proven that a smaller, more personalised approach can thrive in a competitive market.

“I’m not trying to compete with the big agencies—they have their place in the market she said.

Compass Realty Whitsundays approach is more direct, but allows Kath to care for and better understand her clients or potential buyers.

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Kath Barker from Compass Realty Whitsundays.
Photo credit: R Jean Photography

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