Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, has confirmed that after more than 12 years of lobbying, the Bowen Boat Harbour Master Plan is finally moving forward.

The Master Plan was an election commitment during the October 2024 election, and with funding recently allocated by the Crisafulli Government, the focus turned to timing.
Mr Last said that, following a commitment from the Minister for Transport and Main Roads, work would begin soon.

“Less than two years ago, the former government put the Master Plan project on hold for at least five years,” Mr Last said. “After lobbying the Minister directly, we have secured another win with work on the Master Plan to get underway this year.”

“The Master Plan is the missing piece when it comes to the Bowen foreshore precinct. It is absolutely essential that the redevelopment of the jetty and upgrades of the foreshore tie into any redevelopment at the harbour, and vice versa, so we end up with the best result possible.

“A mismatched series of developments along the foreshore would be a disaster for Bowen from both a tourism point of view and for locals. Getting it right the first time not only improves value for money for taxpayers, it means we get the facilities we need much quicker.

“This is an opportunity to transform the entire foreshore area into an oasis for locals and tourists alike, less than one kilometre from the Bowen CBD. It’s about realising Bowen’s potential when it comes to economic development and job creation.

“The reality is that the Master Plan should have been completed years ago. Whenever they have been asked to, the Bowen community has engaged fully in the planning process but, despite that, nothing has been delivered.”

Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Brent Mickelberg, said the Crisafulli Government was committed to listening to the community and unlocking Bowen’s potential.

“With sailing events on Bowen’s doorstep during the 2032 Olympics, we have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to promote Bowen as a tourism destination and a place to invest,” Mr Mickelberg said.

“I thank the local member’s advocacy on behalf of his community, and I look forward to seeing the planning and engagement process progressing this year. One of the key parts of any development is community engagement, because that ensures opportunities to share ideas or raise concerns to ensure the foreshore precinct brings benefits to the entire town.

“While the previous Labor government was happy to leave Bowen in a holding pattern, we recognise the impact that the Harbour Master Plan will have on Bowen’s growth and economy.”

Contributed with thanks to Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP

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Australians love big things and nine in 10 people are said to embrace the oversized landmarks as a part of their great Aussie road trip.

For 72% of Aussies, visiting one is more than just a detour, it adds purpose to their trip.

Following overwhelming demand for the first collection, Australia Post has released its latest $1 coin collection in partnership with the Royal Australian Mint, celebrating Australia’s iconic roadside attractions.

The ‘Aussie Big Things 2’ collection features 10 of Australia’s favourite Big Things
including The Big Strawberry, The Big Merino, The Big Prawn, and Bowen’s own The Big Mango.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said everyone was very excited to have the Big Mango featured on a $1 coin.

“Everyone loves the Big Mango, and we feel honoured that it has been chosen as part of this new coin collection.

“Aussie Big Things capture some quirky and wonderful aspects of Australia, and more and more people are making sure they include all the Big Things on their road trips.

“The coins are available at Australia Post outlets, including the Bowen Post Office, but we will also be selling them soon at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre.

“Our release date will be October 7 when we will have a limited amount for sale but there will be no pre-orders.”

The Big Mango represents the Kensington Pride variety of Mango as Bowen is the birthplace of that variety.

The Big Mango was named the Best Big Thing in our state at the Queensland Day awards in May.

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Retreat For Locals And Visitors Alike

On the shoreline of Bowen’s Rose Bay, a boutique caravan park has been winning over visitors with its relaxed coastal charm and a surprising healthy twist.

Tony Dente and Bernie Mackie opened the Rose Bay Beach Caravan Park just over 18 months ago, creating a welcoming escape with only 24 sites. Their goal was to provide a smaller, quieter alternative where guests could enjoy a friendly community atmosphere in a stunning beachside setting.

“It’s a small, boutique park – more like a little community than a big, overwhelming caravan park,” Bernie said.

“People love that it’s peaceful, pet-friendly and set in such a beautiful part of Bowen.”

Along with access to hiking trails and an off-lead dog beach right across the road, the park offers guests everything they need without leaving Rose Bay. That includes the Caravan Park's newest venture – Earth Bar Café. A café and health food store that has become a hit with both locals and travellers.

Serving gluten-free treats, smoothie bowls, frozen acai, and even classic scooped ice cream, Earth Bar combines seaside relaxation with modern food choices.

Bernie expects that people became more health focussed after COVID, and she saw this as a chance to fill a gap in the market in Bowen.

“Our visitors from down south, are normally from Victoria and South Australia, and they’re used to the city vibe where they have health food options at their doorstep,” explained Bernie.

“There was an opportunity to come offer that to people, and the community has been amazing with the health food, saying there's nothing like this in Bowen.”

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Earthbar Cafe at Rose Bay Beach Caravan Park. Photo sourced: Facebook

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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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Separation and divorce can be emotional and complicated. Property, parenting, support - it’s a lot. That’s why we focus on clear, calm advice that helps you understand your rights and your options. No pressure. No scare tactics. Just practical legal support.

We’ll help you find a path forward that protects your interests (and hopefully keeps things civil).

Whitsunday Law – Practical support through life’s messier moments.

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Kimberley Jamieson

Kimberley Jamieson, a Proserpine local, joined the team at Accountancy Plus in May 2008. Since then, Kim has completed a business degree majoring in accounting, has married and now has two beautiful daughters who keep her extremely busy. Kim is a senior Manager and Partner of the firm. She specialises in business advisory and management, cash flow projections, tax planning, and benchmarking. In her spare time, Kim enjoys spending time with her family.

Karen Miller

Karen Miller completed a Bachelor of Commerce from Griffith University in 1990. She has since gained a Certified Practising Accountant (CPA) qualification and is a senior Accountant for Accountancy Plus Whitsunday (APW). Karen has worked in public practice for many years, and had a lifestyle change in 2012 when she moved with her husband from the Gold Coast to the Whitsundays.

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With over $1.5 billion in property sales and more than 40 years of combined experience across Hamilton Island and the Whitsundays, the Sotheby’s team—Wayne, Lynn, and Joe—offer an unmatched level of local knowledge, professionalism, and proven results.

Backed by the global prestige of Sotheby’s International Realty, we provide full-service coverage from both Hamilton Island and the mainland—ensuring no enquiry is missed and every opportunity is maximised.

We live and invest locally, and we’re committed to securing the best outcomes for our community.
Thinking of selling? Let’s talk.

Call us today to book your no-obligation appraisal. Wayne – 0416 024 168, Lynn – 0415 039 060, Joe – 0415 070 114

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In July, Eastwoods Dining transformed into a haven for food and wine lovers, with their highly anticipated event, a Wine Dinner.

Held on Thursday 24 July the event promised a curated experience—pairing thoughtfully crafted dishes with exceptional wines for an unforgettable evening.

At a time when quick dining is commonplace, Eastwoods Dinning Wine Dinners offer something different, an evening to slow down, connect, and truly savour.

Executive Chef and Owner Jack Mason had crafted a nine-course menu that celebrated the best of the season. Each dish was thoughtfully paired with a wine designed to enhance flavours and enrich the dining journey.

July’s feature was South Australia’s Emmalene, the story of two Adelaide Hills families: the Bartsch family, who grow the fruit, and the Bulman family, who bring the wine to life. Their philosophy is simple yet powerful: grow fruit that reflects the land, and make wine that reflects the fruit.

“Events like these not only highlight delicious dishes & fine wine, it is also the opportunity for us to showcase our hospitality by creating memorable & meaningful dining experiences we love to share,” said Executive Chef and Owner Jack Mason.

Eastwoods Dining are set to continue the popular Wine Dinners in the future, but seats will be limited and once announced, booking early is recommended.

Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or simply curious, these evenings are about enjoying food and wine as they were meant to be experienced - together.

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The Emmalene Wine Dinner was an unforgettable evening. Photos supplied

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Ruia, a striking two to three-year-old Bull Arab cross, is looking for a second chance at life and a family to call her own. With her gentle nature and happy personality, this young dog has quickly won the hearts of everyone who meets her.

Believed to have a touch of Boxer in her mix, Ruia is described as affectionate, easy-going, and great with other dogs. She loves nothing more than spending time with people, sharing tummy rubs, and soaking up attention. Despite a difficult start, her loving spirit remains strong, and she’s ready to blossom in a safe and caring home.

Ruia’s Best Qualities:
• Friendly & affectionate
• Loves tummy rubs and human company
• Good with other dogs
• Happy, easy-going personality
• Will blossom with love and security

Ruia’s adoption package includes desexing, microchipping, vaccinations, and full flea, tick, and worm treatments. Her adoption fee is $650.

If you think Ruia could be the perfect addition to your family, message Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc on Facebook with your name and contact number to learn more or to arrange a meet-and-greet.

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Hello everyone,

I hope you're having a great week and are ready to dive into some wonderful stories from our incredible Great Barrier Reef.

I'm always keen to hear what you've been up to. Whether it's a small environmental project you're kicking off or a large-scale organisation making waves, I'd love to hear from you. Please feel free to email me at ruth@lifepublishinggroup.com.

Happy reading!

Ruth

"To leave the world better than you found it, sometimes you have to pick up other people’s trash.” —Bill Nye

Fun Fact: Potato cod is a giant fish that can weigh up to 100 kg and grow up to 2 meters long

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The Great Barrier Reef is undoubtedly the jewel in the crown of coral reefs worldwide. But like all coral reefs today, it faces a very uncertain future, primarily because of the impacts of climate change.

This has been highlighted in the recently released Federal Government’s National Climate Risk Assessment report. The report noted that the world is moving too slowly to reduce carbon emissions, the main driver of climate change. Currently, we are on track to reach a 2.7 degree increase in temperature by 2100, far above the 1.5 degree increase which is needed to keep coral reefs alive.

The impacts of climate change on the Reef have become very clear over the past two decades. Best known would be coral bleaching which is caused by marine heatwaves. The Reef has suffered through 5 mass bleaching events over the past 8 years.

The Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) reported the most recent bleaching event (2024) was responsible for the largest ever loss of coral across the Reef. Compared to the 2024 levels, coral cover in the northern region dropped by a quarter (from 39.8% to 30%), the central region by 13.9% (from 33.2% to 28.6%), and the southern region by almost one-third (from 38.9% to 26.9%).

Another serious, but more subtle impact of climate change is ocean acidification. The ocean absorbs carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. The more carbon dioxide we pump into the atmosphere, the more the ocean absorbs. This causes the ocean to become more acidic.

Many marine animals, including corals, build their skeletons from calcium carbonate. A more acidic environment slows down the building of skeletons as well as weakens the skeleton. This makes animals more prone to damage by severe weather events like cyclones.

Speaking of cyclones, climate change will not necessarily increase the number of cyclones each year, but will likely increase the intensity of cyclones; more category 4’s and 5’s which will lead to more reef destruction.

Another well-known impact of climate change is sea level rise. This is not good news for our low-lying seaside communities. But sea level rise will also impact our intertidal environment, mangrove forests and seagrass meadows, which are very important nursery grounds for many fish species. Mangrove forests also help stabilise and protect our coastline from storm damage.

The future of our Great Barrier Reef does look bleak. But the Reef’s destiny is not written in stone. At least not yet. To give the Reef a fighting chance, we must rapidly reduce our carbon emissions.

Our Federal Government has just released their new carbon reduction target of 62-70% by 2035 (compared to 2005 levels). This is an improvement from the previous target of 43%, but considered timid and will not save the Reef. We need to continue pushing for more.

Most scientists agree that nett zero by 2035 is the only way to give the Reef a fighting chance to survive.

The Great Barrier Reef is worth fighting for.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Conservation Council.

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Photo supplied.

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Did you know that excessive artificial lighting at night is affecting Australia's native wildlife?

Many nocturnal animals rely on natural darkness for vital behaviours such as foraging, hunting and migrating. These species have evolved over thousands of years to live and thrive in the dark. However, increasing levels of light pollution are disrupting their natural patterns, making it harder for them to survive and affecting the balance of entire ecosystems.

From bright city streets to over-lit backyards, artificial light can confuse navigation, alter feeding habits and even interfere with reproduction in animals that depend on the night.

The good news is that there are simple actions you can take at home to help reduce light pollution. According to Queensland Government, the best ways to take action are:

• Only light areas that genuinely need it, and consider whether the light serves a clear purpose
• Use non-reflective, dark-coloured surfaces near outdoor lighting to limit glare and light spread
• Avoid white or cool-toned lights. Choose amber-coloured bulbs that emit minimal blue light, which is less disruptive to wildlife

By being more thoughtful about how we use light at night, we can help protect our environment. These small changes not only preserve the natural beauty of the night sky but also support the survival of countless native species.

Protecting the night is a step toward protecting the natural world. Let’s keep the night dark for those who need it most.

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By Amanda Wright

In a major step forward in the fight against homelessness, the first sod has been turned on a new $5.2 million St Vincent de Paul Society Community Support Centre in Mackay.

The project will bring housing and wraparound services under one roof for some of the region’s most vulnerable people. Six new social housing units — including one accessible ground-floor apartment — will sit alongside a purpose-built centre featuring welfare, youth and housing offices, interview rooms, and a discreet family waiting area.

Building Hope
Vinnies Project Combines Housing And Support Services

Ground has broken on a new Community Support Centre and six social housing units in Mackay, the latest milestone in St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland’s 500 Homes initiative.

At the sod-turning last week, key spokespeople travelled to Mackay to mark the occasion: Joe Duskovic (Acting CEO, St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland), Sharon Shearsmith (CEO, Vinnies Housing), Peter Dougherty (President, Rockhampton Diocesan Central Council), and Patricia McMahon (Queensland State President).

St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland Acting CEO Joe Duskovic said the redevelopment would transform support for those in need.

“This transformative project will deliver a vibrant new space for the community, providing a better experience for people accessing a range of support services, along with providing a much needed modern office space for workers in our housing, homelessness, youth and other programs.”

He added that the design reflects the Society’s integrated approach.

“The integrated housing and support design will provide that holistic wraparound support for the people living here as well as supporting the community.”

The six homes will include two one-bedroom units, three two-bedroom units, and a wheelchair-accessible ground-floor unit.

Sharon Shearsmith, CEO of Vinnies Housing, said the project would help ease housing pressure in the region.
“Quite often our housing is full or we have low vacancies, so to be able to create a new project that's bringing new stock into the market to help people in need is tremendously exciting.”

Queensland State President Patricia McMahon said the centre’s doors will be open to all.

“The idea is that everyone can get support, because these days there are so many struggling and the homelessness is horrendous.”

Peter Dougherty highlighted the project’s community-led planning.

“We’re very grateful for the input from locals along the way,” he said, noting the design had been revised multiple times to fit local need.

“This kind of integrated service and accommodation model is the first of its kind in Queensland and is set to be completed by the end of 2026.”

The centre will also include a community pantry, youth program office, Home Assist Secure program, meeting rooms with dual exits for safety, an outdoor terrace with BBQ facilities, and vehicle accommodation for a community bus service.

Funded through $5.2 million from the Queensland Government’s Resources Community Infrastructure Fund — alongside St Vincent de Paul Society’s own contribution — the development will address housing insecurity in a region where property prices have risen 19 per cent in the past year.

Mr Duskovic said the project was only possible through strong partnerships.

“We saw the opportunity to include six homes for people experiencing housing insecurity, as part of the redevelopment. These six homes will help us in our mission to provide more than 500 new homes across the state.

"Combining housing with wrap-around support and services is a practical and effective approach to helping people find a sustainable pathway out of homelessness and housing insecurity.”

“We are enormously grateful for the generosity of our wider community,” he added.

The Mackay development follows new builds in Nerang and Toowoomba, with more projects set to break ground across Queensland in coming months.

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L–R: Joe Duskovic (Acting CEO, St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland), Peter Dougherty (President, Rockhampton Diocesan Central Council), Patricia McMahon (Queensland State President, St Vincent de Paul Society), Sharon Shearsmith (CEO, Vinnies Housing), and Dennis Innes (Chair, Vinnies Housing and Vice President, St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland) at the sod-turning ceremony for Mackay’s new Community Support Centre. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland Acting CEO Joe Duskovic addresses guests at the sod-turning ceremony in Mackay. Photo supplied

Work is now underway on Mackay’s new Community Support Centre and six social housing units, due for completion in late 2026

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It’s a strange thing to write your own full stop. After five years, countless deadlines, and more alliteration than even I care to admit, this is my last edition of Mackay Life. A paper born out of Covid uncertainty, built on a promise to connect, uplift, and inform — and somehow, against all odds, we made it something pretty special.

What a ride it’s been. We had an advert go globally viral, scooped “Best Free Newspaper in Queensland,” collected a shiny Gold Wonkley, and even launched two more regional papers on invitation from their communities. I've covered NRL games, interviewed Strassman one-on-one, taken selfies with the Prime Minister  and I was humbled to become a Patron of the Trudy Crowley Foundation. And through it all, you, our readers, have been right there with me.

You’ve seen my personal chapters unfold too: building a house mid-Covid, navigating IVF, finally celebrating the birth of my son, then facing a cancer diagnosis just after his first birthday. I typed stories during chemo, rang the all-clear bell in time for Christmas, and now I find myself here, typing the hardest words of all: goodbye.

Of course, none of this would’ve happened without a cast of incredible characters. To Bec Douthwaite, our fearless publisher — thank you for taking a chance on a Kiwi freelancer you’d never met, until you saw me fly off a banana boat near Daydream Island. That chaotic splash turned into the start of something extraordinary, and the ride since has been every bit as exhilarating. Thank you for trusting me, for handing me opportunities I never imagined, and for the adventure of a lifetime.

To Rach, my editorial twin flame, we’ve launched papers side by side, navigated storms, and cheered each other on through every deadline crunch. Your grit, warmth and wit have been the anchor and the sail. I know you’ll keep steering these publications to even greater heights.

To my Mackay team, Jess and Hannah — Mackay's heart beats stronger because of your dedication and care. Jess, your commitment to our advertising clients made every edition stronger. Hannah, your compassion and sharp eye for people’s stories have already left their mark. You’re both colleagues, friends, and confidantes, and I’ll miss our banter as much as our bylines.

To my wider team — from Hinchinbrook to Mackay — you’re more than colleagues, you’re family.

I'm proud to see Hannah step up into a senior editorial role to fill my shoes. Reading what she, Rach, and Bec wrote in a farewell to me on page 7 moved me to tears, the kind of tears that remind you how lucky you are to have been part of something so meaningful.

My words won’t be in print anymore, but will soon echo in Parliament, working alongside our Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox. I’ll swap newsroom banter for national debate — and maybe even slip in some more alliteration.

So, this is it. My last headline, my last deadline. It’s never too late to re-write your own story, thank you for reading mine.

Here’s to the next chapter.

Amanda

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From my little family to yours, farewell. Photo credit: Michelle Munro

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A convoy of humble Postie bikes hit the open road for a good cause, as the annual Postie Bike Safari returned for its 13th year of fundraising and friendship – all in support of regional families facing childhood cancer.

Departing from Mackay on Saturday, 30 August 2025, 26 riders and 6 support vehicles travelled more than 2,000 kilometres across outback North Queensland over the course of a week.

Childhood Cancer Support is a Queensland-based charity that provides free accommodation, transport and care to families navigating the heartbreak of a childhood cancer diagnosis.

The event began in 2013 when organiser Greg Becke and his workmates first gathered friends to ride Postie bikes for charity.

“What started with 13 bikes and a simple idea has since grown into a passionate annual ride involving dozens of riders and raising more than $825,000 for charity,” Greg said.

“In the past four years alone, the Safari has raised $524,000 for Childhood Cancer Support.”

This year, the riders were welcomed by small towns and rural communities along the way.

“There’s just something special about the simplicity of a Postie bike and the big heart of the people who ride them,” said Greg.

“We pay for our own fuel, food and accommodation, and give up a week of work – but the generosity we receive along the way makes it all worthwhile.”

“It’s very emotional to meet the families affected by childhood cancer along the ride,” said Greg.

“One night at the Bowen River Hotel, a family who’d stayed at Childhood Cancer Support came to thank us – they showed us photos of their child’s treatment journey.” He explains, “It’s times like this we realise what the funds actually do. It’s what keeps us riding.”

The Safari wrapped up with a celebration dinner at Ocean International in Mackay, bringing together riders, families and supporters for an auction night.

The Postie Bike Safari 2025 raised $101, 760 for Childhood Cancer Support.

To donate, visit fundraise.ccs.org.au/event/postie-bike-safari-25

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The 13th Postie Bike Safari raised $101,760 for Childhood Cancer Support, with riders travelling over 2,000 kilometres across outback North Queensland. Photos supplied

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