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Local tourism operators are expressing concern toward troubling times ahead, with the federal government’s new visa restrictions set to shrink the backpacker workforce that drives seasonal operations. The Federal Government’s proposed cuts to Working Holiday Visas have raised concerns across two of the Whitsundays’ biggest industries. Bowen farmers warned that fewer backpackers could leave crops unpicked, and now tourism leaders in Airlie Beach have added that the same cuts could leave local businesses scrambling to find workers that aren’t there. At Airlie Beach’s Heart of the Great Barrier Reef sign, Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth and Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins spoke about what the proposed changes could mean for a region that relies heavily on tourism. “We can't have Airlie Beach named Australia's top tourism town in the small category and then have the knees cut out from us by federal policy,” Tim said. The proposed changes form part of the Federal Government’s effort to reduce migration, a topic that has been of hot debate by all three parties that Mayor Ry Collins believes the working holiday visas should be separated from. “Obviously the federal government is really coming in with broad brushstrokes to try and address the publicly perceived issue around net overseas migration (NOM),” said Mayor Collins. “Some of the dialogue I heard last week in Canberra was actually taking that working holiday maker class completely out of the NOM calculation. “I think that's a fair and reasonable way that they can make the numbers look as good as they want but it won't affect the actual number of workers that are here to support our industries.” The new restrictions look to cut the second-year extension on Working Holiday Visas from 57,000 to 45,000 slots, and 3rd year extension from 31,000 to just 5,000. According to Tourism Whitsundays, the Whitsundays hosts about 3,500 backpacker workers at any given time of the year. “I think for regions like the Whitsunday’s unemployment rate is lower than the national average by 0.9%, so at a 3.5% unemployment rate, we just don't have the workforce there that can pick up these roles that the working holidaymaker delivers for our communities,” Tim said. According to figures released by Tourism Whitsundays, in the year ending March 2026, domestic visitors spent $959.1 million in the region and international visitors spent a further $271.8 million. This spending was made possible by the abundance of workers delivering those experiences. “[Working holidaymakers] do a terrific job already in delivering world-class experiences, particularly here in the Whitsundays,” said Mayor Collins. “We do see working holidaymakers really take up that mantle, particularly in areas like customer service roles, hospitality roles, housekeeping roles... “What we're asking for is that we can stay strong as an entire tourism industry.” Having just returned from Canberra, the pair said raising regional and statewide voices is crucial to persuading the Federal Government to reconsider how the proposed restrictions would apply. “And then at a federal level, obviously through our federal member Andrew Wilcox, but we've also engaged with the members of the Labor Party around that as well. “But unfortunately it's starting to feel like a number of issues that we're campaigning on…along with things like disaster recovery funding arrangements which was one we linked into last week.” Photo caption: Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins and CEO of Tourism Whitsundays, Tim Booth. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville
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In this world of AI and other technological advancements, you don’t want to be the person who wanders around the office like a big old clumsy Tyrannosaurus Rex bumping into all the youngsters and stepping on their laptops and other devices. It’s one of the challenges of our times; getting the balance right in business in a world that is increasingly controlled by AI, robotics and a rapidly changing IT environment. I remember, some years ago now, when older family members had refused to embrace computer technology and mobile phones etc. They were really left behind and felt excluded in a world that had moved ahead without them. I’ve got a 19-year-old son who doesn’t have to think about it. Current and evolving technology is part of his life and, like others in his age group, he is completely at ease with something that is just part of his make-up and comprehension of the world around him. The trap you can fall into is letting the kids do all the IT stuff for you. My son set up our old TV with all the streaming services etc, which was the easy option for me, but I find it’s important to get involved and do it yourself otherwise everything will move ahead and you won’t be able to do things for yourself. But I am still stuck in some of the old ways. If I am ordering a takeaway meal I still ring the restaurant and go and pick it up. The old T-Rex wanders into the Thai or Indian joint and picks up his plastic bag of goodies, pays, and drives home. There aren’t many of us left. Uber Eats baby. Everyone has embraced it. My wife and daughter were having dinner together in Brisbane recently and my daughter noticed that her stockings or tights had “run” or a ladder in them. My wife suggested she jump in the car and drive to a nearby supermarket and get another pair. But my daughter ordered a new pair to be delivered to the restaurant by Uber. They were there in a jiffy and the night continued without the pesky interruption of having to leave the restaurant to buy them. It’s a great example of the modern world making things easier and how many of us need to ensure we are adjusting and understanding how things can now be done. There is another side to the coin, however. People have told me that I should get AI to write my columns. They say I could give it some examples of columns I have written and give it an idea for a new column and tell it to knock out 600 words on my chosen topic in my style of writing. It’s something I would never do. Apart from the fact that it would somehow seem like I was cheating, it would also not be authentic. I feel that however boring or pedestrian my stories and comments are, at least they are mine. They have come from my noggin, my experiences. It is my take on the world, not something that has been cobbled together by artificial intelligence. It’s similar in the world of real estate and, I’m sure, business generally. You need to embrace the technology, use it when it creates a better service, a superior experience for buyers and a better result for sellers. But there is still a place for picking up the phone and calling buyers, following up from open homes, doing the hard work that needs to be done as an agent. In a world of AI, robotics and Uber Everything the human element, the person-to-person connection still needs to happen to deliver good service and create the best result for clients.
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Maisy is a beautiful little soul who seems to understand that the very best place in the world is right beside someone she loves. She is affectionate, gentle, social and wonderfully trusting. She loves curling up on a welcoming lap, snuggling into your arms and settling close enough to make you feel as though you have always belonged together. Maisy is generous with her purrs, her cuddles and her sweet little air biscuits. She even places her paw in your hand as if to say, “I choose you.” But this gorgeous girl is not only a champion snuggler. Maisy is playful, curious and full of kitten joy. She loves exploring her toys, chasing anything that moves and turning ordinary moments into entertainment. She will happily amuse herself, but everything is even more fun when her favourite person joins in. She has that perfect combination of affection and personality, soft and loving when it is time to cuddle, and playful and bright when it is time for fun. Maisy will bring warmth to your home, companionship to your days and a little paw to hold whenever you need it. If you are looking for a kitten who will play with you, curl up with you and love being part of your life, Maisy may be the girl you have been waiting for. Maisy has been desexed, microchipped, received her first vaccination, been wormed and is litter trained. She is ready to begin her beautiful new life as a much-loved indoor companion. To arrange a meet and greet with Maisy, please call Ros on 0403 814 318.
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Tarren McAuley, Web Director and Co-Owner I remember when those AI posters started popping up – the first one looked kinda different. By the end of the week, when I’d seen 30 of them, I was much less enamoured + actively scrolled past anything that had that telltale paint smear style font. It’s not that the quality had gotten any worse between me seeing that first one + when I was sick of them by the 30th. But it was no longer novel or original. I think AI is especially susceptible to this because as soon as someone discovers a winning formula, everyone else jumps on the bandwagon, but because everyone is getting similar outputs, it gets old – quick. I think brands can fall into a similar trap. Humans are always looking for inspiration + when seeking it out, where better to look than the other players in your field. If you’re a tech company, you’re going to look at Samsung, Apple + the like. But when that happens too much, you get a feedback loop of samey-ness. For me, this is best exemplified by airline logos. Look at Qantas + Virgin, probably the two biggest brands in Australia. Both use a red plane-like icon, w/ their logo in big letters next to it. Bit cherry picked but even the other big players’ logos are similar - Emirates uses mainly red + shakes it up by having a slightly more exotic font. Jetstar ditches the red for orange + has their icon at the end but it has similar visual markers. This isn’t unique to logos, like w/ the poster example earlier – it could be your social tiles, your website or even your company email sig. Whatever it is, if you wake up one day + notice that the other businesses around you are looking a bit too similar, that should be your sign to start looking at a rebrand to shake off the rust + re-establish your unique identity. You know, until the cycle repeats again!
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Community wellbeing, accessibility and cultural connection will be strengthened across the region through Mackay Community Foundation’s 2026 Grants Program, with more than $247,000 awarded to 16 local non-profit organisations.
Funded projects include community gardens, emergency relief initiatives, cultural spaces, youth programs and community infrastructure aimed at improving inclusion, accessibility and community participation.
Mackay Community Foundation Chair Melissa Green announced that this year’s recipients reflected a growing focus on projects that create long-term value for the wider community.
“Many of these organisations are thinking beyond their immediate organisations and looking at how their projects can create broader opportunities for community use,” Ms Green said.
“Many of these grants' recipients are thinking beyond the needs of their immediate organisations and strategising how the benefits of their projects can extend beyond their own clients’ needs and into the broader community.”
Among the 2026 grant recipients is Crossroad Arts, with Mackay Community Foundation contributing $35,000 towards the delivery of a 15-metre diameter dome designed for local large productions and community events.
Crossroad Arts Artistic Director Autumn Skuthorpe said the vision behind the dome was “centred on creating more inclusive and accessible experiences for the community”.
“Through this project, we’re creating something that not only supports diverse artists and audiences, but something the wider community can experience,” Ms Skuthorpe said.
“Our long-term vision is to provide a versatile community asset that can support future touring opportunities across Central-North Queensland, and activate public spaces, which will contribute to Mackay’s growing art cultural identity.”
Community members interested in supporting future local initiatives can visit the foundation at www.mackaycommunityfoundation.com.
Businesses interested in learning more about the ‘Mackay, Give Where You Live’ employee giving program are encouraged to contact the Mackay Community Foundation at admin@mackayfoundation.com.au.
CASA Mackay — $21,818 — New mobile outreach vehicle to strengthen the ability to offer housing services.
Clontarf Foundation — $9,375 — Driver training opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young men.
CQUniversity — $5,000 — Provide financial assistance to students experiencing unexpected hardship.
Crossroad Arts — $35,000 — 15M diameter dome for large-scale productions.
Kidney Support Network — $35,637 — Replacement vehicle for patient transport service.
Mackay Pet Rescue Inc — $13,370 — Assist in preventing avoidable pet surrenders.
Mackay Surf Life Saving Club — $15,000 — Replacement of the Surf Club’s roof.
Mackay Youth Service — $5,200 — Furnishing and resources of essential office IT and equipment.
Mind Australia Limited — $18,730 — Creation of the Yarning Circle and cultural garden.
My Hospital Foundation — $10,000 — Advanced imaging machine for breast cancer surgery.
Project Pink — $8,045 — Purchase essential training equipment for youth boxing program.
RSL Cares — $12,000 — Cyber safety program for seniors.
Safe Sleep Mackay — $11,568 — Support the completion of the battery fit-out of Sleepbus 3.
The Held Project — $9,773 — Wellbeing bags for mothers experiencing isolation.
The Neighbourhood Hub — $22,230 — Staff training for evidence based parenting programs.
The Salvation Army — $15,000 — Create a safe, welcoming healing garden for women and children.
More than $247,000 has been awarded to 16 local non-profit organisations through the Mackay Community Foundation’s 2026 Grants Program to support projects that strengthen wellbeing, accessibility, inclusion and community connection across the region. Photos supplied
A mum has shared gratitude for a local family who stepped up to support her son after a minor accident. Photo source: Shutterstock
A grateful local took to Facebook this week to thank kind strangers who stepped in to provide support to her son in a stressful situation.
The young man was parked up with his friend when another group of youths hit his car, and unfortunately drove away.
Exercising extraordinary grace, the mother expressed that she was not writing to shame the perpetrators, as fear may have been the reason for their quick escape.
Instead, she highlighted the kindness shown by a family who approached her son and his friends to check they were ok.
“You didn’t know them personally, yet you chose to stop, check on them, comfort them, and even take the licence plate details of what happened outside,” the mum shared.
“To the parents of that family — you raised beautiful souls. Your kindness reflects the values you taught at home, and it shows.
“Thank you for reminding us that there are still genuine people in this world who care for others without expecting anything in return.
“May life return your kindness tenfold. May you and your family always be surrounded with love, protection, and blessings. From one grateful parent to another, thank you immensely for being our son’s guardian angels that evening. Please stay safe always.”
The words remind us that when a young person is rattled by the realities of the world, we’re lucky to have parents and neighbours nearby that will step in and help – whether it’s their own kid, or a total stranger.
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The Mackay community recently came together to draw attention to World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD), a global event observed on 15th June.
Prior to the day itself, a Stir A Cuppa event was held at Harrup Park, encouraging open conversations about the safety, dignity and wellbeing of older Australians.
The event, supported and sponsored by Daly Bay via their Community Grants Program in partnership with Relationships Australia and Mackay Regional Council, provided a relaxed and welcoming setting where attendees shared a cup of tea or coffee while learning about the realities of elder abuse and how individuals and communities can play a role in preventing it.
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Elder abuse can take many forms, including financial exploitation, emotional or psychological harm, physical abuse, neglect or social isolation.
Often underreported, elder abuse remains a significant issue affecting the health, independence and quality of life of older people across Australia.
Events like Stir A Cuppa are designed to break the silence and empower communities with the knowledge to recognise warning signs and take action.
Together, these organisations are committed to supporting initiatives that promote the wellbeing and safety of older people in the Mackay region.
For more information on World Elder Abuse Awareness Day head to elderabuseawarenessday.org.au/
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Kirsty will take part in ‘the big shave’ next Saturday 27th June 2026, with her luscious locks to be transformed into wigs and donated to multiple children who have experienced hair loss. Photos supplied
Next Saturday, Mackay woman Kirsty Miron will say goodbye to 95 centimetres of hair, but what she is giving is far greater than her luscious Rapunzel locks.
In a moving tribute to her late neighbour and friend, Bridgeen Doherty, Kirsty will take part in the Big Shave, transforming years of growth into hope for children experiencing hair loss while raising vital funds for families affected by cancer through the Trudy Crowley Foundation.
Their friendship began as neighbours and grew through cups of tea, shared stories and caring for Bridgeen’s beloved cat, Maeve, during her battle with ovarian cancer.
Even after Bridgeen’s passing in February 2025, her strength, humour and advocacy for women’s health continue to inspire those who knew her.
Soon, one woman’s hair will become confidence for a child, while a community’s generosity has the power to change lives. With a fundraising goal of $10,000, donations remain open until the Big Shave next Saturday June 27th.
A Mackay woman with real life Rapunzel hair has selflessly decided to take on 'the big shave' next Saturday, June 27th, volunteering to cut off her 95cm long locks in honour of her late neighbour, Bridgeen Doherty.
Kirsty Miron lived next door to Bridgeen and would often care for her beloved cat, Maeve, while Bridgeen was in hospital during her relentless battle with ovarian cancer.
Many locals remember Bridgeen for her tireless advocacy and resilient spirit, encouraging women to ‘KNOW YOUR BODY, KNOW YOUR NORMAL,’ a message that continues to echo throughout the community and has helped save lives through its urgency and awareness.
Bridgeen sadly lost her battle with ovarian cancer on February 20th 2025.
Kirsty said donating her hair was one way she could give back after being so deeply impacted by her neighbour's friendship and strength.
“A couple of years ago I decided I'd like to do something with my hair. I didn't know what that thing was going to be.
“Then we moved here [to Mackay], Bridgeen was our neighbour, and we got really close with her, and she asked if we would be interested in taking her cat Maeve once she passed.”
Kirsty's strawberry blonde locks will be donated to children, with the remarkable length of her hair expected to help create multiple wigs.
“It brings me joy that this hair is going to bring someone else joy.”
Kirsty fondly remembers Bridgeen for her adventurous stories, humour and kind heart.
“We would have tea together and she would tell us about the crazy stuff she used to get up to as a young person in Ireland, and how she came to Australia.
“And through those stories, we realised, ‘this lady has had such a big, fantastic life’.”
“Yes, we were seeing her towards the end of her life, but it was such a privilege to know her at that time too.”
While shaving her head will be a major change, Kirsty said she has been preparing for the moment for years and is proud to support others who have experienced hair loss. Her husband will also shave his head in solidarity.
"Shaving one's head as a woman is a big thing,” Kirsty said.
“I've had time to prepare myself… and I've been ready for this change for such a long time.”
And as for Maeve, she has become a cherished member of the family.
“Maeve is now one of our children. She's a very good cat and gets along great with our other pets.”
The fundraiser currently has a goal of $10,000, with donations open until Saturday 27th June. Every donation will help support local people and families impacted by cancer through the Trudy Crowley Foundation, with all donations over $2 tax deductible.
Locals and businesses wishing to support the cause can donate through the Trudy Crowley Foundation fundraiser, titled Kirsty Miron's Big Shave for Ovarian Cancer: In Honour of Bridgeen.
The third annual Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN) Legends’ Night proved to be another spectacular success over the weekend, raising an impressive $55K for this worthwhile local charity.
Held at 360 On The Hill, Flag Staff Hill event space in Bowen, a total of 130 guests attended this sold-out event.
Designed to be more than just a fundraiser, the event saw local ‘home grown heroes’ take to the stage to share their story.
First, local Iron Man and motivational speaker Michael Kimpton inspired the crowd with his story of how a motorbike accident changed his life and led him on a different path, one where he discovered a new version of himself.
“We can recover physically but we also need to cope with our mental resilience to ensure our wellbeing,” he shared.
Former army medic, McQuility ‘Coco’ Qurikewith also took to the stage sharing his story of how 16 out of 18 in his platoon were tragically killed in an explosion.
He nearly died three times in the days afterwards and is still getting operations 13 years later to deal with the physical side effects.
He told the story of how he disappeared into a dark place mentally following the incident, but managed to overcome and now uses his story to help others.
President of WSPN Matt Stokes said he was both moved and humbled by the evening which was full of emotion and meaning, but also a lot of fun.
“It was amazing, we couldn’t have asked for it to have gone any better,” he said.
“Every little detail was faultless and a big thank you to Jen Lowcock for everything she did to make the night so perfect.
“We have a super generous community with a lot of people donating their services, from the buses to the décor – we would like to say a big thank you to all our sponsors.”
“The stories of our home-grown legends who spoke on the night really touched the crowd, everyone could relate to it, it was so powerful!”
Event Coordinator Jen Lowcock said she was thrilled with how the evening unfolded and acknowledged 360 On The Hill for orchestrating such a fine evening.
“It’s such a beautiful location and the service was impeccable, the food was amazing and everything ran on-time and smoothly,” she shared.
“We couldn’t have asked for it to be any better!”
The evening was highlighted with the bluesy tones of live music act Zed Charles who had the crowd dancing until midnight.
All proceeds of the evening are ploughed straight back into WSPN initiatives which include free counselling services for families affected by suicide, free breathing classes and many other services across the community.
A young traveller helped a woman experiencing a medical episode at a local shopping centre. Stock image, illustration only
A simple act of kindness at Whitsunday Plaza has touched the hearts of hundreds of locals, showing that compassion can make all the difference.
After experiencing a medical episode while shopping, a local woman found herself in need of immediate assistance. Fortunately, help was close at hand, in the form of a kind traveller who jumped to her aid.
After the incident, the lady took to social media, thanking the young man and describing him as a “good soul” for the care and concern he showed during a difficult moment.
According to the woman, the stranger quickly found her a chair to sit on and purchased a drink for her while she waited for assistance from staff at LiveLife Pharmacy.
She also expressed her gratitude to pharmacy team members Jenna, Kim and Mel for the support and care they provided.
The post struck a chord with the community, attracting almost 200 likes, praising the young man’s actions and celebrating the kindness shown by both him and the pharmacy staff.
The woman said she hopes the young man, believed to be from either the United States or Canada, sees her message and understands just how much his help meant.
In a world often dominated by negative headlines, the story is a reminder that small acts of kindness from strangers can leave a lasting impact.
A cheeky young pup with a big heart is looking for a family to call his own after a rough start to life.
Five-month-old Staffy cross Robb was found wandering the streets of Home Hill and, despite efforts to locate his owners, was never claimed. Thankfully, he was taken in by Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue, which has been caring for him while he recovers and waits for his forever home.
Described as sweet, playful and full of personality, Robb has already overcome more than most puppies his age. Recently, he underwent surgery to repair a herniated belly button as well as operations on both ears after suffering from haematomas.
Now fully on the road to recovery, Robb is ready to leave shelter life behind and begin the next chapter with a loving family.
The young pup's carers say he has plenty of affection to give and would thrive in a home where he can continue to grow, play and enjoy the care every dog deserves.
Robb's adoption fee is $400, and anyone interested in giving him a forever home is encouraged to contact BCPRI on Facebook.
After everything he has been through, Robb is hoping his perfect match is just around the corner.
Opinion Piece By Richard Evans, President Whitsundays Writers Festival
We have no shortage of brilliant creative people in the Whitsundays. What we’re short on is the framework to support them.
Writing groups meet in spare rooms. Festival groups fundraise year-to-year with no certainty there’ll be a next year. These aren’t fringe concerns – they’re the heartbeat of a social community worth living in.
It’s time to modernise. Time to take our creative life seriously, for the benefit of everyone.
What we're asking for isn't complicated.
We need a clear, accessible arts and culture policy that recognises the full creative ecosystem - from writing, visual arts, filmmaking and performance, to heritage, festivals, museums, libraries, and community arts.
Yes, funding matters. But so does affordable spaces to create and perform, support for local organisations and their fantastic volunteers, opportunities for artists to develop their craft, pathways for young people, cultural tourism initiatives, public art, and the preservation of our region's stories and heritage.
Most importantly, we need a shared vision that brings these elements together under a single, fair, and transparent framework. Not patchwork grants. Not one-off decisions. Not the luck of the draw. A genuine commitment to arts and culture that is written down, applied consistently, measured against clear outcomes, and reviewed openly with the community it serves.
Other regional councils have done it and reaped the benefits of what follows. Artists stay, tourists come, and the stories of a place get told properly, not left to fade.
Here in the Whitsundays, we have extraordinary natural raw material. Writers who capture this landscape like no-one else. Performers who fill every seat they’re given. Visual artists whose work deserves a proper platform — just as the new Community Gallery in Proserpine is beginning to show us what’s possible.
Our cultural community deserve better than crossed fingers and collection tins.
An accessible arts policy means a first-time author gets the same fair shot as an established local group. A teenager wanting to learn film editing has somewhere to go. The door is open, not just ajar.
The economic case is real. Local creative precincts and activities lift a community and cultural tourism draw visitors in ways that are hard to put in a spreadsheet, but very easy to feel when they’re gone.
But the deeper case is simpler. A community that creates together knows itself. It has memory, identity, and the confidence to imagine its own future. Culture provides a social asset for all of us.
That’s worth a policy. That’s worth a seat at the table.
The creative community is ready for the conversation. We invite community leaders, businesses, philanthropists, stakeholders and government to help shape a shared vision for arts and culture in the Whitsundays.
Richard can be contacted via hello@whitsundayswriters.com
Welcome to Create. Connect. Whitsundays., the weekly feature now proudly presented through a collaboration between the Whitsundays Writers Festival and Creative Connections Whitsunday.
This feature continues the wonderful work established by former journalist Seb, whose commitment to highlighting local creativity helped shine a spotlight on the people, stories and organisations that enrich the cultural life of our region. We are delighted to continue that legacy and provide a dedicated space for creativity in the pages of our local newspaper.
Each week, Create. Connect. Whitsundays will feature thought-provoking articles, local creative profiles, poetry, writing opportunities, and information about exhibitions, galleries, markets, and cultural events happening across the Whitsundays.
The Whitsundays is home to an extraordinary community of writers, artists, musicians, makers, performers, volunteers, and creative thinkers, all contributing to the unique character of our region.
Whitsundays Writers Festival President Richard Evans said creativity plays an important role in building community connections.
"Stories help us understand who we are and where we belong. Through this feature, we hope to showcase the remarkable creative talent that exists across our region and encourage more people to engage with the arts, whether as creators, participants or audiences."
Creative Connections Whitsunday President Glenda Brown said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to supporting a thriving creative community.
"Arts and culture are woven into everyday life. Creativity brings people together, supports wellbeing, sparks new ideas, and helps build stronger, more connected communities. Creative Corner will celebrate the people who make the Whitsundays such a vibrant place to live."
Whether you're a creator, a supporter, or simply curious, we invite you to join us each week as we celebrate the creative spirit of the Whitsundays.
We also welcome contributions from across the community. If you would like to submit a poem, creative writing piece, profile suggestion, event information, or share your creative story, please contact hello@whitsundayswriters.com
The White Cross
The success of the Cool Waters Methodist Youth Camp at Emu Park led to plans for another camp further north. Noel McClintock, who ran a watch and jewellery shop in Proserpine, learned of a large block of land at Mandalay with no road access. He contacted Rev Ivan Alcorn, head of the Methodist Youth Department, and arranged its purchase from Mr Janson of Airlie Beach.
The site was originally a very small coconut plantation that had been established by the Waterson family. The only access to Mandalay in those days was by sea and a trip was organised by the local Methodists. With the help of Rev Ivan Alcorn from Brisbane, they inspected the site of what was to become the new Methodist Youth Camp.
The site’s tropical jungle, palm-lined beach and small shack among the trees above the avenue of hoop pines were strikingly beautiful. The first caretaker, Bessie Stowe, lived there and rowed across to Airlie Beach before the road was built.
Much work was needed to establish the camp. Ro Jackson used a two-cylinder John Deere crawler to cut a road into the block, and Robbie Vonhoff graded it. The track was cleared through jungle, swamp, hills, springs, rocks and boulders from what later became Shute Harbour Road, at that time ending at Jubilee Pocket.
The outdoor chapel and cross were built within the avenue of hoop pines looking across the bay to Airlie Beach. Sleeper logs were set up and angled to the centre aisle and a pulpit was constructed out of stones from the original jetty on the foreshore.
Keith Heaton and another teacher took a year off from teaching and built the first dormitories and facilities. The minister of the time, Barry Dangerfield, negotiated a good price for some bricks from Pindi Pindi, mainly reject clay bricks with very minor imperfections. However, Rev. Alcorn was told they could have as many bricks as could be shifted in a fortnight, free of charge. And so, the Jacksons closed their sawmill for the two weeks to undertake the task. Spearheaded by Mick Grevell, John Jepsen, Watt Jackson and Allen Cumming, the job was completed with the help of church volunteers.
Cool Palms Methodist Camp opened on November 1, 1969, with Howard and Daisy Walsh as the first caretakers of the camp. Bruce Muller recalls that they slept on camp stretchers in army tents at the first camp that he attended and that it was a great adventure.
Other churches used the camp and its facilities. In the late 1960s, the Adventist Church held meetings there and used the dormitories for campouts. Occasionally, a funeral service was conducted there.
As was the case with many enterprises of the day, the facility was always short of money. There was much fund-raising by the local Methodist congregation and so many people who gave so much of their time to make this dream become a reality. Sadly, it was eventually sold off, and the dedication, hard work and self- sacrifice of so many locals was cast aside to history. Some of the money was spent on a small number of blocks at Cannon Valley which included a parsonage, and the rest went to Brisbane.
It is uncertain when the Cool Palms Methodist building was pulled down. Sadly, all that remains today of this popular camp is the big white cross and a few of the pews situated amidst big shade trees and facing out over the water.
Story and photo sourced from Bruce Rath Muller’s recollections (PHMS Magazine December 2020) and PHMS archives.
Look for an active teat like this to identify whether any joeys survive the deceased macropod.
Fauna Rescue is reminding locals to check the pouch anytime a macropod (a kangaroo or a wallaby) is found deceased.
The risk of hitting wildlife is a sad reality of driving across the region, so should residents find themselves in the situation, they’re encouraged to, if safe to do so, perform a pouch check - and potentially save a life.
When checking a pouch, gently open and inspect the area. Look for a joey – even a tiny, furless one. Feel for movement or warmth. And finally, importantly: check for an active teat.
An active teat is when the mother’s teat is elongated so it can be attached inside the joey’s mouth. In young joeys, the teat actually swells to anchor them in place while they feed.
“If you see an active teat but no joey, it’s very likely the joey is big enough to come out of pouch and has retreated from their injured/deceased mum.” Fauna Rescue explained.
“Usually they hide in nearby grass or bushes, but don't typically go too far.”
In this situation, the organisation advise to call a wildlife rescuer immediately and leave the deceased mum where she is in case the joey returns to her smell.
If you're able to do so, take a clear photo of the teat to send to the Fauna Rescue group on Facebook. This helps rescuers assess the situation quickly and give the best advice.
“Call a wildlife rescue immediately if you find a deceased macropod,” Fauna Rescue said — even if you’re unsure.
Save the Fauna Rescue hotline number in your phone: 4947 3389
Kala Auda has been praised for her exceptional care and maturity as she undertakes her Certificate III in Health Services at Bowen Hospital.
Bowen State High School are celebrating First Nations student Kala Auda, a Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Foundation (QATSIF) scholarship holder and Rugby 7s player excelling in her healthcare journey.
Currently completing her Certificate III in Health Services through a school-based traineeship at the Bowen Hospital, Kala finishing Grade 12 and already shining.
The school nurse Caz Cole has reported to be absolutely thrilled with the outstanding progress she is making, and a community member has even reached out to praise Kala’s work.
“My father was in care for about ten days and [Kala] was an amazing support to him, I was surprised to find out she was on placement through school.” Christine Chambers shared.
“She showed such maturity and grace sitting with and caring for an old man who was extremely scared and lost. So a big thank you from my whole family and I wish you well in all your future endeavours.”
For Kala, the experience has been rewarding and is leading her toward for a bright future.
“The Certificate III in nursing has encouraged me to do something out of my comfort zone and I have learnt a lot. The people I have met during this certificate has been great and they made me realise I must cherish the life and appreciate everything I have,” she said.
Bowen State Principal Mr Harris added:
“Kala’s is one example of how many students at Bowen State High School have focused on their career aspirations and worked hard to make it happen.
“Kala’s achievements have not been without challenges, and I am proud of her courage and persistence to work through those challenges to be where she is today. She is a wonderful role model for other First Nations students.”
School fetes, chocolate drives and raffle books are the typical norm when it comes to fundraising, but Collinsville State High School has been doing things a little differently for more than a decade.
When the school’s Parents and Citizens Association floated the idea of a Collinsville Bacon Busters fundraiser, it's fair to say it was met with a fair degree of scepticism. And yet, twelve years later the event has become one of the region's most anticipated events, drawing visitors from far and wide and raising thousands of dollars for the school and local causes along the way.
On Saturday 22 August, Collinsville will celebrate not one milestone, but two. The Collinsville State High School P&C Association will host the 11th Collinsville Bacon Busters, while Collinsville State High School celebrates 40 years of secondary education at its Walker Street address.
Chances are, if you've lived in Collinsville over the past forty years, Collinsville State High School has been part of your story in some way. Whether you attended the school yourself, had children or grandchildren graduate, worked there or supported it from the sidelines, the school has helped shape generations of Collinsville families. For former students, Bacon Busters weekend offers the perfect reason to come home.
Collinsville is one of those towns that never really leaves you. No matter where life takes you, there is always a connection that draws people back — family, friendships, memories and a strong sense of belonging.
This August, former students, staff and families are invited to return and celebrate 40 years of Collinsville State High School. Reconnect with old classmates, share stories from your school days and see how the school continues to provide opportunities for the next generation of Collinsville students.
Throughout the day, Collinsville State High School will host school tours and historical displays featuring photographs, newsletters, uniforms, trophies and memorabilia from across the past forty years. Whether you're searching for a familiar face in an old photograph, reliving sporting triumphs or simply reflecting on how much has changed, there will be plenty of opportunities to celebrate the school's rich history.
While the school celebrates its past, Bacon Busters will provide plenty of reasons to celebrate the present.
Visitors can enjoy dog events, the Ironman competition, bikekhana, touch football, carnival rides, market stalls, food vendors, camping facilities and a licensed bar. Crowd favourites including the Mullet Competition and Best Piggin' Rig Competition will also return.
As the sun goes down, the celebrations will continue with live music until midnight. Ron and Deb from Mackay, together with local favourites Luella and Shayne, will provide the soundtrack to a fantastic day of community celebration.
At their heart, both Collinsville Bacon Busters and Collinsville State High School's 40th anniversary are about people. They are about the students, staff, parents, volunteers, sponsors and community members who have helped shape our school and our town over the past four decades.
So if Collinsville has ever been part of your story, make plans to return on Saturday 22nd August.
Come back to catch up with old friends. Come back to celebrate 40 years of Collinsville State High School. Come back to see how the school and community continue to thrive.
Then join us for the Boars, Bands and Bikes, live music until midnight and a community celebration that has become one of the highlights of the year.
Because if there's one thing most people know about Collinsville, it's that no matter where life takes you, it's a town you always return to.
Today’s Future Voices column is sharing a perceptive, thoughtful piece penned at St. Catherine’s by Year 12 student Finlay Farrell. The essay, written for Lions’ Youth of the Year Competition, explores Finlay’s family’s connection to tourism, community and conservation in Fiji.
Imagine yourself lying in a hammock on an Island in Fiji. Soft breeze brushing against your face, the hope and excitement to get in the endless ocean growing fonder as you see fish darting across the shallows. Hear the Fijians singing “Bula Malaya”, a traditional welcoming song to the guests lucky enough to join you on this remote haven.
This is not just an image of paradise. It’s the heart of a story. A story that today, I have the privilege of sharing with you.
This story is a trifecta of three aspects: business, community, and conservation. Like the reef itself, where every creature has its role to play, this is a mutualistic relationship that defines not only survival, but a potential for a thriving future for all.
This story isn’t just about a business or a place. It's a story about what's possible when people, purpose, and planet come together.
Fijians fish for two reasons. The first is for food to feed their families. It's a crucial source of protein. This fishing is sustainable. The second is to sell the fish. Fijians,
like us, need money to pay for the necessities of life, such as school books, toothpaste, or phone credit. This fishing has no limit and is not sustainable. When no
limit or protection is set on the amount of fishing, immense damage is inevitable.
Many Fijians may be unaware of the damage this can cause, meaning they will continue to do so without second thought. Part of solving this issue is done through education, which the business supports. An alternate revenue source must also be created. This is where tourism can be the answer.
The Barefoot Collection business operates on land owned by the community. It offers an alternative source of revenue for the community as part of anagreement for lending the land. The business has committed to hiring as many people from the community to give them individual income. This allows Fijian’s to work closer to their village, meaning spending more time at home with family, rather than having to travel to a distant mainland. A percentage of the income that the business creates is shared with the community. Now that multiple members of society have income sources, it takes immediate pressure off the reef.
A thriving ecosystem benefits both business and the community. Potential guests are more likely to visit an Island with a healthy reef. Their stay is enhanced by discovering and learning about the beautiful ecosystem beneath the surface, increasing the chance of a return visit or a recommendation. Guests are also more likely to spend their hard-earned money on an experience with a unique and jaw-dropping reef. This then creates more income for both the resort and the community. In the agreement with the community, a marine protected area, or in the Fijian language, a Tabu area, has been created. This is crucial for healthy reefs. It creates the opportunity for fish to grow and make babies that will grow up on other reefs, where some can be harvested. We know that having some protected areas will boost fishing in other areas. Tabu areas have long-term benefits for the reef, but they can also create immediate economic benefits for the community. Long-term benefits have no use to a parent needing to feed their child tomorrow.
The community learning more about the benefits of correctly managing resources and the business learning how to manage the income appropriately, both are crucial to the trifecta's success. Building trust takes time. The business and community have both individual wants and common needs. Having trust in the other and an open relationship, as well as understanding that neither partner will get everything right, is difficult but crucial in this relationship.
The environment is the only leg on this tripod that has no say and is dependent on the collaboration of the others. For now, it is thriving. Do you want to help? Whilst lying on a hammock? preferably cocktail in hand? I strongly recommend you seek out holiday destinations where tours and resort operators conduct their business in an environmentally and community-friendly, sustainable manner.
Ashlin with her parents, Stephen and Angela Styles. Photo supplied
By Chelsea Ravizza
When Ashlin Styles was named the 2026 Youth Member for Whitsundays, she saw the appointment as more than a personal achievement – it was a reminder that young people from regional communities can make a meaningful difference, regardless of their background or circumstances.
“Being named the 2026 Youth Member for Whitsundays is a significant milestone for me as this role represents far more than an individual achievement; it reflects the opportunities that are possible for young people from all backgrounds,” Ashlin said.
“As a young female of Māori descent from a regional community, this position shows me that background, identity and personal challenges do not limit what someone can achieve. I hope my appointment encourages other young people to believe in their potential, take on opportunities and recognise that their voice and experiences matter.”
Raised in the Whitsundays, Ashlin has always been encouraged to contribute to her community, and she credits much of her drive and determination to her father, who immigrated from Ireland to build a new life in Australia for his family.
“My inspiration for youth leadership comes largely from my father,” she recalled.
“His resilience, leadership and dedication to supporting our family continue to inspire me to become a leader within my own community. Alongside this, my family's unwavering support has always encouraged me to give back, take on opportunities and work towards a positive impact.”
Ashlin’s sense of identity has also been shaped by her involvement with the Kotahitanga Kapa Haka Whitsundays group, which helped her strengthen her connection to her Māori heritage.
“Being part of a community built on family, culture and connection has taught me to truly embrace and appreciate my culture,” she said.
“At times, living outside of New Zealand has left me feeling disconnected from parts of my identity. However, this group has shown me that culture is not defined by location; it lives within people, traditions and community.”
Throughout the experience, Ashlin believes she has been able to develop a stronger understanding of her own identity, and now she hopes to use her role as Youth Member to advocate for greater opportunities and support for young people living in regional areas.
“Regional communities will always face unique challenges, but they also hold strong opportunities for growth and connection,” she said.
“One issue I feel particularly passionate about is improving access to resources and opportunities for young people living in smaller communities.”
Having travelled long distances for school and seen peers miss out on sporting and extracurricular opportunities due to transport, funding and support barriers, Ashlin understands the challenges many regional families face.
“As Youth Member for the Whitsundays, I hope to advocate for greater accessibility, stronger community support and more opportunities that allow young people in regional areas to thrive and feel connected within their communities,” she said.
Beyond advocating for regional youth, Ashlin has already been working alongside other young leaders through the Justice, Police and Corrective Services, Child Safety and Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence Committee. Together, they have developed a Youth Bill aimed at improving support and reintegration pathways for people leaving custody.
“The goal of this initiative is to reduce reoffending by improving access to pre-release planning, post-release support and accountability measures that help individuals successfully reintegrate into the community,” she explained.
As she begins her term as Youth Member for Whitsundays, Ashlin hopes to be both a strong advocate and a positive role model, encouraging others to step forward, embrace opportunities and recognise the value of their own voices.
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