Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
The photo of the week winner is Elise Dunckis for the theme ‘Off the Beaten Track’. Elise’s photo is of a night under the stars which, was taken in Morgan, South Australia. Next week’s theme is ‘Vintage’. Budding Photographers can enter by joining the Whitsunday’s Amateur Photographers group on Facebook. Contributed by Whitsunday Amateur Photographers
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Residents of the Greater Whitsunday Region are no stranger to the burden of box jellyfish. They have no brain; they pose a deadly threat and have been nearly impossible to detect in the water – at least until now. Growing up in Bowen, Dr Scott Morrissey’s passion for marine life was fostered by the town’s beautiful beaches and the opportunities they provided for underwater exploration. “I spent as much time as I possibly could underwater. I wanted to learn as much as I could about what I was seeing,” Scott said. With a robust education courtesy of Bowen State High School, Scott was able to foster his passion for marine life. Hig “Chemistry is okay but it’s like cooking to me. Physics was too much math. Biology was what I really enjoyed. It’s about building an understanding of how everything works together and why things are happening in the environment. It’s great learning biology because you can go outside and apply what you’ve learnt immediately. It definitely resonated with me.” Scott’s classic North Queensland grievances towards the threat of box jellyfish influenced a unique study path that eventually led him to producing groundbreaking research. “Box jellyfish are a huge pain in the backside, especially in summertime when you want to snorkel. The more I looked into jellyfish, the more I realised we actually know very little about them considering the threat they pose. So thought it would be a pretty cool place to start asking questions.” Following his undergrad studies at James Cook University in Townsville, Scott pursued further studies through a PhD leading to monumental research breakthroughs in the realm of jellyfish. “Jellyfish are basically invisible in the water. We know very little about what causes them to appear, when they’re going to appear and how many of them will be there. I wanted to try and create a new way to be able to detect them.” Scott applied general characteristics of biology to investigate the phenomena further. “When animals move through an environment, they leave behind their DNA in the form of things like skin, snot or blood. It’s like how forensic scientists scan for DNA at a crime scene. Our method is quite similar. We take two litres of water and filter it down, leaving us with a soup of DNA that’s been left behind by all animals in the area. We search through that and look to see if there is any jellyfish DNA and we use that as a means of detection.” This research will aid in risk management and monitoring safety around beaches. “The more we understand about them and what they’re doing – the better equipped we are to assess and manage risk. With normal species there is so much information related to population figures and movement that we don’t have with jellyfish. If we’re able to fill in that gap of knowledge, then we will have a complete understanding so that we can actually forecast likelihood of jellyfish in the area with greater accuracy.” The research is will also have broader application on both national and international levels. “We’ve been working with another group in Western Australia. They also have really nasty Irukandji jellyfish that love to sting tourists. We’ve been able to apply the technology to that species and it’s starting to be picked up internationally. There’s work being done in Thailand. The hope is we can continue the research and start looking at things such as are box jellyfish moving South.” Scott shows no signs of slowing down as he continues to consolidate his work. “I would love to be able to conduct our lab work on site to reduce delays. If we can test the water straight away, then we can get an answer on site in three hours as opposed to the three to four days it would take in a lab. I would love to get the process down to an hour or even 45 minutes. It would be great to even develop some sort of user-friendly tool that anyone could use.” Scott expressed gratitude to the support he’d received for his work. “I need to say thanks to Lions Australia, they fund 99% if this research.” The Bowen and greater Whitsunday community look upon Dr Morrissey with pride and keenly anticipate the amazing work he will no doubt continue to do. Captions Scott AKA Dr Morrissey – hard at work. Photo supplied
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ANZAC Day is one of the most important days on our calendar as a time for us, as a community, to pause, reflect and come together. Across the Whitsundays, services will be held in towns and communities from Bowen to Proserpine, Airlie Beach to Collinsville, and in our smaller rural areas. These gatherings are a chance for all of us to stand side by side and honour those who have served our nation and those who never returned. As Mayor, I have the privilege of representing our community at these services, but ANZAC Day belongs to everyone. It belongs to the families who have carried the legacy of service through generations. It belongs to the veterans who continue to serve our community in different ways. And it belongs to every resident who takes a moment to remember the sacrifices that have shaped the freedoms we enjoy today. Here in the Whitsundays, service and sacrifice are not distant concepts, they are part of our local story. From Gallipoli to the Western Front, from the Pacific to more recent conflicts, generations of Australians have answered the call to serve including men and women from right here in our region. This year, we also recognise the theme “Women in Service” acknowledging the vital role women have played, and continue to play, in defending our nation and supporting our communities. Among them are people like Commander Natasha Burney, who has ties to the Whitsunday community and served in Afghanistan — a reminder that the ANZAC spirit lives on in people from communities just like ours. Their stories remind us that the ANZAC spirit is not something distant, it is part of who we are as a community. ANZAC Day is also about connection. Standing shoulder to shoulder at a dawn service. Watching the march. Sharing a quiet moment with family, friends and neighbours. These traditions matter. They ensure that the service and sacrifice of past and present servicemen and women is never forgotten and that future generations understand the cost of the freedoms we often take for granted. Bring your family. Bring your children. Help pass on the meaning of this day to the next generation. Because remembrance is not just about looking back, it’s about ensuring those stories and values continue into the future. This ANZAC Day, let’s stand together as a community, united in respect and gratitude. Lest we forget.
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Last week, the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry represented the region’s business community at a roundtable with the Queensland Minister for Small and Family Business, Steve Minnikin, alongside the Queensland Small Business Commissioner, Queensland Cross-Border Commissioner, peak state and national industry bodies, and regional Chambers of Commerce. The roundtable provided an important opportunity for knowledge exchange, bringing forward real-world examples and discussing targeted, practical interventions to address both the short- and long-term impacts of the current fuel situation. The Chamber’s focus was clear: ensuring a strong regional perspective was part of the conversation. Being at the table means more than representation, it’s about shaping outcomes. By engaging directly with decision-makers, the Chamber ensures local priorities are heard, understood, and acted upon for the benefit of the entire Whitsundays community. Chamber President Allan Milostic said it was critical the region remains at the forefront of discussions. “These conversations are where real advocacy begins. Being part of these discussions ensures the concerns of our region are not only heard but can be elevated at both state and federal levels where decisions are made,” he said. Data from Business Chamber Queensland highlights the scale of the issue, with 95% of Queensland businesses reporting impacts, and more than 70% experiencing major or severe challenges. Allan said the situation is rapidly escalating for regional communities. “We are hearing from businesses experiencing supply chain challenges more significant than those during COVID lockdowns. Flights into the region are being reduced, impacting both tourism and freight. At the same time, consumer confidence is being reported lower than during COVID, affecting discretionary spending and travel commitments, with a noticeable shift toward online purchasing,” he said. “The high cost of living and high cost of doing business existed before the fuel crisis, they are now being amplified.” Locally, the impacts are being felt across all sectors, with flow-on effects for businesses, workers, and the broader community. The Chamber is encouraging practical, community-led responses: Shop local first to keep the regional economy viable. Take a measured approach to fuel purchasing to avoid unnecessary strain on supply. Maintain critical services such as public and school bus networks. Support young people, trainees, and apprentices to access transport to work. For businesses to seek professional financial advice and be cautious of predatory lending or quick loan offers. The Chamber is also reinforcing key advocacy priorities, including: Fuel security — addressing both pricing and supply, including sovereign capability and international supply chains, to ensure certainty for agriculture, tourism, health, and transport sectors. Access to reliable, real-time information — including clear, centralised public reporting to support informed decision-making at a regional level. Have Your Say To strengthen its advocacy, the Chamber is calling on regional businesses to share their experiences. Businesses are invited to complete a short survey to help inform ongoing advocacy efforts and ensure the real impacts of the fuel crisis are clearly communicated to all levels of government. Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry
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Tina Briskey From Taylors Property
For Tina Briskey, real estate is more than a profession: it’s a way of sharing a place she has long called home.
After arriving in the Whitsundays in 1991, following extensive travels across Australia and throughout her home state of Queensland, Tina quickly formed a deep connection to the region. What began as a move became a lifelong commitment, with the Whitsundays evolving from a destination into a cherished home.
Before transitioning into real estate, Tina spent 17 years working on Hamilton Island, gaining valuable experience and building strong ties within the community. Her move into the property sector was driven by a genuine desire to help others discover the same lifestyle she had come to love.
As a Property Specialist with Taylors Property Specialists, Tina brings a values-driven approach to her work. Loyalty, integrity, and honesty are at the core of everything she does, shaping a professional style that is both transparent and deeply client-focused. In an industry where trust is essential, Tina’s commitment to ethical practice and clear communication has become a defining feature of her service.
Tina is passionate about helping clients not only buy and sell property, but also find their own piece of paradise in the Whitsundays. Her knowledge of the local area, combined with her authentic enthusiasm for the region’s lifestyle, allows her to guide clients with confidence and care.
With a strong connection to the community and a heartfelt belief in what the Whitsundays has to offer, Tina Briskey continues to help others turn their property dreams into reality.
Lisa relocated to the stunning Whitsundays in 2023, drawn by the promise of a more relaxed lifestyle and the opportunity to immerse herself in everything the region has to offer.
With an extensive background as a paralegal and conveyancer in New South Wales, Lisa has a deep understanding of the legal and transactional aspects of property. Her passion for real estate, combined with her commitment to building genuine relationships, inspired her to transition into the industry full-time.
Grateful for the warm welcome she and her family received, Lisa is passionate about sharing her knowledge, enthusiasm, and local insight to help others achieve their property goals. She takes pride in guiding clients through the process of buying or selling their most significant assets, ensuring a seamless and rewarding experience.
Approachable, professional, and always willing to go the extra mile, Lisa looks forward to assisting you with your real estate journey in the Whitsundays.
Sarah Dean from Belle Property Whitsunday
Sarah Dean brings a wealth of experience and a track record of success to her role as a Sales Consultant at Belle Property Whitsundays, where she leads Team Sarah Dean.
Before moving into real estate, Sarah worked in the investment sector, helping clients maximise their superannuation through high-performing boutique funds. She also founded and ran a successful marketing business that generated qualified leads for investment property sales companies nationwide, enhancing client acquisition strategies and sales growth.
Sarah’s focus is on building strong, long-term relationships with her clients through trust, clear communication, and expert advice. She is passionate about staying ahead of market trends, deeply understanding local property values, and providing her clients with a distinct competitive edge.
Recognised for her excellence, Sarah has received multiple Sales Awards and has consistently ranked among the top agents on realestate.com.au in the Whitsundays for both performance and 5-star reviews. She is also a proud recipient of the Price Expert Badge from Rate My Agent, a reflection of her accurate market insight and pricing expertise.
What sets Sarah apart is her genuine, client-first approach and her ability to achieve record-breaking sales prices. Her strong negotiation skills and tailored selling strategies ensure optimal outcomes for every client, whether buying or selling.
Now at Belle Property, Sarah thrives in an environment that values collaboration, innovation, and high standards of service. Team Sarah Dean is committed to providing a boutique experience backed by the strength of the Belle Property brand, delivering premium results with a personalised touch.
Outside of real estate, Sarah is an active member of the Whitsundays community. She enjoys quality time with her son, outdoor adventures, sporting events, and charity initiatives. Whether camping, boating, or exploring the beautiful Whitsundays region, Sarah embraces life with energy and passion—values she brings to every client interaction.
Stop the presses - one of the most loved dogs in the world is coming to Australia!
Spot the dog is taking to the stage in a show designed to be enjoyed by the whole family, and adored by little ones, for whom it might be their first ever theatre experience.
The upbeat show sees Eric Hill's beloved puppy come to life on stage in a show that's fun for all, with puppetry, songs, and puzzles for children from 18 months and up – promising to be enjoyed by ‘big kids’ too.
Spot and his friends will be setting off on a new adventure to visit Spot's Dad on the farm and meet the farm animals. But when they arrive, all the animals are lost! And so the quest begins: Can Spot and his friends find them all? They might need a little help from their new friends in the audience...
This sweet show is an amazing opportunity to introduce little ones to the arts, letting them step into a storybook world where their favourite animals have jumped off the page and stand before them. Who knows – it may inspire some future performers to take to the stage one day, too.
Tickets are available now on the Proserpine Entertainment Centre website.
WHAT: Spot – Live On Stage
WHERE: Proserpine Entertainment Centre
WHEN: Friday 1st May, 12-12.50pm, 2-2.50pm
The Proserpine Nursing Home opened 40 years ago this month, filling an important gap in aged care facilities within our community. Since the time of its opening, the nursing home has expanded from 30 to 103 beds today.
In March 2004, Mrs Zena Price, Past Patroness of the Proserpine Historical Museum, penned the following article on the history of the Proserpine Nursing Home.
It has been said that in every field of human life things have gone ahead because people of vision have had a dream and a hope of something that may be possible. To live comfortably in the world, we must have dreams and Margaret Rose Rigby’s dream was to have a nursing home in Proserpine - a place where invalids and the elderly could enjoy the comforts of being cared for in an environment they knew, amongst relatives and friends.
Margaret was not a native of this district. Her husband, Jordan, became Manager of the Proserpine Sugar Mill in 1978. Soon after their arrival, in conversation with friends and from her own observations, she learned that some of our elderly were being cared for in the local hospital or in out-of-town nursing homes. She first called a public meeting in 1980 to discuss the viability of a nursing home a committee was formed with Mr Ray Botto as president.
The first estimate of $800,000 seemed impossible but the generosity of the Eddie Dray family in donating 1.6 hectares of land for a home removed a considerable financial burden from the committee. Proserpine Co-operative Sugar Mill each gave $50,000 with the State and Federal Governments providing substantial donations.
The committee left no stone unturned in its efforts to make the home a going concern. They ran goose clubs, manned the gate at the rodeo, harvested bean crops, made curry and rice for the Harvest Festival; the ladies had bridal afternoons, the Rotary and Lions Service Clubs were most generous. By April 1986, Margaret received the keys to the home. No vacancies!!
In 1990, another marathon effort, and ten units known as “Hazelwood Hostel” were connected to the southern end of the Nursing Home. “Hazelwood” honours the memory of James Nicol, an original cane supplier to the Mill in 1897, who called his farm “Hazelwood”. The Nursing Home is built on part of that farm which was sold in 1948, to the Dray family.
In 2000, the very comfortable “Whitsunday” wing was made possible by the transfer of $350,000 from the Aged Care Association at Airlie Beach and Jubilee Pocket.
In 2003, a fourth wing named “Windermere” was opened. The name “Windermere” is familiar to this district. It was the name given to land purchased at Cannon Valley near Brandy Creek by Mr HW Holmes when he arrived in 1894 and is still in the Holmes family. The Windermere School, one of the district’s country schools, was built on land donated by Mr Holmes and operated for the children in that area from 1922 till its closure in 1942.
No doubt, Margaret Rigby’s dream came to fruition because of the untiring efforts of many good local residents, service clubs, good management, caring staff and government help.
Story sourced from Proserpine Historical Museum archives (PHMS Magazine Issue 54 March 2004). Photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum.
Captions
L-R Jean Hinschen; Margaret Perkins; Gwyn Johns; Margaret Rigby - Four hard workers seen preparing the grounds before the opening.
Photo supplied.
Steve Fraser is the winner of Photo of the Week this week, sharing this photo of Airlie Main Street for the “Street Life” theme.
Next week’s theme is “Angles”. Budding photographers are welcomed to submit their photos via the Whitsunday Amateur Photographers Facebook Group.
1 - Photos contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Amateur Photographers group.
Bella is the kind of dog who reminds you just how powerful love and resilience can be.
Connection is everything to Bella. She thrives in environments where she can be part of the family and included in daily life. For this reason, she would be best suited to a home where people are around most of the time, as being left alone all day would not meet her emotional needs.
Bella is a medium-sized dog with a medium energy level—equally happy to enjoy playtime and then settle in for cuddles. She is wonderful with children, currently being assessed with other dogs, and her compatibility with cats is still unknown.
Her ideal home would include secure fencing, a family-oriented environment, and, most importantly, a lifelong commitment from people ready to give her the stability she deserves.
Bella comes microchipped, has had all necessary veterinary work completed, and has made a full recovery from a previous illness. She is now healthy and ready to begin her next chapter.
Her adoption fee is $400.
Bella has already proven her strength. Now, she just needs someone to choose her—and to choose her for good.
If you believe you could offer Bella the loving home she’s been waiting for, please reach out with your name, phone number, and expression of interest.
If you are interested, please contact Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc.
Captions
Photo source: Facebook
The volunteer-led Bowen Community Op Shop is once again showing how powerful grassroots generosity can be, welcoming an impressive flow of donations from the community, and using every dollar earned to directly invest back into the Bowen and Collinsville region.
Thanks to the overwhelming generosity shown by locals, the Op Shop is currently offering clothing without tags for $1 and baby clothing for 50 cents, making essential items accessible to families doing it tough.
Not only is the shop a useful resource, all income raised is being channelled straight back into community programs. Funds have supported chair‑based exercise classes, tech classes, health forums, dancing programs, the Bowen Soup Kitchen, the Food Bank, festivals and more than 90 community organisations across the region.
The Op Shop has also helped sponsor two Bowen State High School students to attend university, demonstrating its long‑term commitment to local youth.
The Bowen Community Centre, which oversees the Op Shop, was recently approved as a registered Social Enterprise Trader, formalising its long‑standing practice of returning more than half of its profits to community benefit.
The Bowen Community Council, which is the governing body over Bowen Community Centre, has also provided free space to the Bowen Art Society, ensuring local artists have a place to create and collaborate.
Open from 8.30am to 2.30pm on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, the shop relies entirely on community donations and has become a supportive hub for local residents.
If you want to be a part of it, come in and say hello at 34 – 40 Gregory Street Bowen.
Contributed with thanks to Stephanie Cora. Photo supplied.
Locals across the Mackay Whitsundays are being encouraged to celebrate the people, places and experiences that make their region special, with nominations now open for the 2026 QLD Day Awards and voting underway for the All the Best campaign.
Part of the annual QLD Day celebrations on 6 June, the initiatives shine a spotlight on community heroes, local businesses and iconic destinations that reflect the spirit of Queensland.
From volunteers and grassroots contributors to standout events and favourite local spots, the awards recognise those who help shape and strengthen communities across the state.
Premier David Crisafulli said the campaign was about showcasing everything Queenslanders love about where they live.
“From your local pizzeria to your favourite beach, we want Queenslanders to share what they love most about our amazing State,” he said.
“We’re also calling on all Queenslanders to help us recognise our amazing community members and organisations by nominating them as part of this year’s competition.”
Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the region had no shortage of worthy nominees.
“We live in the best place in the world, and there is so much to be proud of and celebrate this Queensland Day,” he said.
Member for Whitsundays Amanda Camm echoed the sentiment, highlighting the region’s diversity.
“From our incredible islands, agriculture and local businesses to the hardworking volunteers and community champions who give so much back, Queensland Day is a chance to celebrate everything that makes our region so special," she said.
Voting is now open, with winners to be announced on 3 June.
CAPTION: Sun, sea and sand at Bowen’s Grays Bay; just one of the many North Queensland gems locals are being encouraged to celebrate this QLD Day. Photo source: Visit Queensland
Bakers Co. Whitsunday started its life as a Brumby’s franchise run by couple Vicky Liu and Andy Tao. After running the store successfully for seven years, the pair decided to go independent, forming Bakers Co. Whitsunday – however the great feeds and tastes that made their business special remain.
Located in the Whitsunday Shopping Centre in Cannonvale, the business has seen immense success over the years.
Bakers Co. Whitsunday boasts a host of delicious treats such as their custard tarts, vanilla slices, jam donuts for those with a particularly sweet tooth – and pies, sausage rolls and coffees for a delicious all rounded breakfast.
Both Vicky and Andy are incredibly grateful for the long-term support they have received from the community over the years.
Despite the rebranding, Bakers Co. Whitsunday show no signs of slowing down as they continue to garner support and spread the joy across the region.
A former Bowen State High School student is making waves in the scientific world, developing a revolutionary way to track one of the ocean's most invisible threats.
Dr Scott Morrissey, a member of the Bowen State High School Class of 2013, recently achieved his PhD at James Cook University. His research uses "environmental DNA" (eDNA)—tiny genetic traces left in the water—to detect the presence of deadly Australian box jellyfish (Chironex fleckeri).
For Principal Rob Harris, Scott’s success comes as no surprise. Mr Harris, who taught Scott in Year 11 and 12 Biology, remembers a student with a clear drive.
"Scott was an incredibly focused student who always had a keen interest in biology," Mr Harris shared.
"It has been wonderful to follow his journey over the past 12 years. His (Scott’s) parents always keep me updated on what he is studying and where he is in the world."
In his thesis acknowledgements, Dr Morrissey concluded - “Finally, I would like to thank my family – Mum, Dad, Dylan, Joshua, and of course my sidekick Percy. Your unwavering support and encouragement have kept me grounded and driven. Thank you for believing in me and for supporting me every step of the way.”
After graduating from Bowen, Scott completed a Bachelor of Science with Honours, a path that allowed him to travel the world while pursuing his passion for marine life. His doctoral research finally solved a long-standing mystery: where box jellyfish come from.
By testing just two litres of seawater, Scott’s method can detect the jellyfish during their ‘polyp’ stage—the stationary phase before they become mobile stingers. His findings revealed that these jellyfish are ‘homebodies’ that stay within specific bays rather than drifting along the coast, a discovery that will vastly improve how local beaches manage stinger risk.
For the Bowen State High School community, Scott’s journey represents a core mission.
"This connection with the community is what Bowen SHS is all about," Mr Harris added.
"Strengthening relationships and embracing opportunities to ensure students realise their full potential and are prepared for all things."
With his PhD now complete, Dr Morrissey’s work stands as a testament to how a passion sparked in a local classroom can lead to world-first discoveries that protect swimmers across the coastline.
Dr Morrissey’s paper can be accessed via: https://researchonline.jcu.edu.au/89811/2/JCU_89811_Morrissey_2024_thesis.pdf
Contributed with thanks to Robert Harris.
Captions
Scott Morrissey attended Bowen State High School and recently completed his PHD. Photo supplied
Last week, ‘Backpacking Poms’ Joe Taylor and Isaac Hirsch passed through Airlie Beach on their epic mission to raise funds for Talk2MeBro, a charity dedicated to improving men’s mental health through connection, conversation, and education.
The two young Brits started their journey in Newcastle and will be cycling 17,000km around the Australian Coastline, sharing their adventure online and raising awareness and money for their cause – one close to both of their hearts.
“We’ve seen how many men are taught to “tough it out,” to bottle things up, and to keep moving no matter how heavy life becomes,” the pair shared.
“We’ve seen friends, family members, and people we admire fight unseen battles — and tragically, some have been lost far too soon.”
“We don’t want men to feel like they have to fight alone anymore.
“This ride is our way of proving that vulnerability is strength, not weakness. That speaking up takes courage. That connection can save lives.”
Isaac said that the duo received outstanding support in our region.
“Our stop in the Whitsundays was incredible. We got a free day trip with Ocean Rafting - Nathan helped us out - and our captain Brent was amazing.” He said.
“A lovely lady named Clare let us stay at her place for a couple of days, we made some great friends, and the locals supplied us with food throughout our stay. The support and kindness made the Whitsundays an unforgettable part of our ride!”
Joe and Isaac are forthcoming about their own struggles with mental health, and how meaningful the challenge is to them.
“For most of our lives, neither of us have truly felt fulfilled,” they stated.
“Deep down, we’ve always known we were meant for something bigger than ourselves — a challenge that would push us physically, mentally, and emotionally to our absolute limits.
“That’s why we’ve decided to take on one of the toughest adventures we can imagine.”
Follow along and donate to the cause on the pair’s socials: @the.bikepackingpoms
1- Isaac Hirsch (left) and Joe Taylor (right) were seen off a Talk2MeBro representative in Newcastle on March 1st. Photo source: LinkedIn
Over the last few weeks there have been national headlines reporting on mass cancellations of regional flights across Australia. Despite difficulties with the fuel crisis, Whitsunday Coast Airport is showing consistent and stable reports and there should be no cause for alarm at this current point in time.
Whitsunday Regional Council Director Commercial Businesses Craig Turner said while there has been some national reporting around fuel impacts and flight cancellations, the Whitsundays continues to perform strongly overall.
“Like many regional areas, we’ve seen some minor adjustments to flight schedules, however forward bookings remain very strong, and airlines continue to show confidence in the Whitsundays market”, said Mr Turner.
“In fact, Whitsunday Coast Airport is performing exceptionally well, with passenger growth of 6.2 per cent which is the strongest result among tourism-focused regional airports and well above the national average, reinforcing the Whitsundays’ position as one of Australia’s most in-demand destinations.”
“We’ve just come through a very strong Easter period, with high passenger numbers and solid demand, which highlights the ongoing strength of the Whitsundays as a tourism destination.”
“Overall, the region remains in a very positive position, with demand continuing to track strongly despite some of the broader national challenges.”
Hello everyone,
I am incredibly excited to be doing the editor’s note this week. I’ve now been in the Whitsundays for three months and I am so grateful to be part of such a welcoming community.
I was privileged to visit my home in Melbourne over the Easter weekend to see friends and family. It got me thinking about what home actually means to a person.
For a time, I had been listening to the song 500 Miles by Peter, Paul and Mary.
I’m actually a lot further than 500 miles. Moreso roughly 1478 miles. ‘Lord I’m 1, lord I’m 2, lord I’m 3, lord I’m 4, lord I’m 1478 miles from my home’ - doesn’t work as well lyrically, for obvious reasons.
I think home is more of a feeling than a place. It’s not merely a house or a room. We find home in many things – in the people we love and trust, in the sounds and noises that seem painfully familiar, in the views and sightings that become commonplace in our subconscious.
The place you grew up in is like a beautiful scar. No matter where you travel, who you meet or what new places you decide to call home – that place you are ultimately from always lingers. Even if that too changes, there is a feeling that always remains.
Having completed university in Melbourne, I spent my entire life there, up until now. This is my first time living out of home independently and it’s been a huge adjustment but I am pleased to being making that adjustment in a wonderful environment surrounded by amazing people.
So, what to you is home? Is it the Whitsundays? Is it your partner or your friend? Is it a song, or book or novel you love desperately? Home can manifest in a variety of ways.
In the words of one of my favourite writers James Baldwin: “Perhaps home is not a place but simply an irrevocable condition.”
Founded in January 2026, Whitsunday Migration Services provides professional, ethical, and personalised Australian immigration assistance for individuals and families navigating the migration process.
The business specialises in visa and citizenship advice, helping clients understand the pathways available and identify the options best suited to their circumstances. Services include full visa application preparation and lodgement, as well as managing communication with the Department of Home Affairs on behalf of clients. To protect sensitive personal information, the business also provides an ISO 27001-certified secure online client portal, allowing documents to be uploaded, messages exchanged, and case updates tracked in a safe and confidential environment.
The motivation behind the business is deeply personal. Having experienced the migration journey firsthand, the founder understands that migration is far more than paperwork. It is a major life decision often filled with emotional and practical challenges. Whitsunday Migration Services was created to ensure clients feel supported, informed, and confident throughout the process. Built on empathy, professionalism, and expertise, the service aims to guide people through Australia’s complex and constantly evolving migration laws with clarity and care.
The migration industry itself is also changing. Increasingly, people are turning to online tools and artificial intelligence for immigration information.
While these tools can provide general guidance, they cannot replace the expertise of a registered migration professional. Migration laws change frequently, and incorrect or outdated advice can lead to serious consequences, including visa refusals or legal complications. As a result, educating clients about the importance of trusted professional guidance is a key part of the business’s role.
Whitsunday Migration Services also offers multilingual support in English, Cantonese, and Mandarin, ensuring clear communication and a culturally inclusive experience for clients from diverse backgrounds.
As a member of the Chamber of Commerce, the business values connecting with other local organisations, supporting the regional business community, and contributing to a welcoming environment for people building new lives in the Whitsundays.
Learn more about Whitsunday Migration Services: https://whitsundaymigrationservices.com.au/
Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry
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