By Christian Kruse

Running a business in the Whitsundays today comes with a major challenge: finding the right people.

At Pacific Centre, much of our work focuses on supporting local businesses that want to access international talent but feel overwhelmed by Australia’s complex migration system.

My background is in hospitality, where I worked as a hotel manager and learned firsthand how important good staff are to the success of any business. During my time in Australia, I also experienced the migration system personally and saw how confusing it can be without the right guidance.

Those experiences shaped the way I approach my role today as Business Manager at Pacific Centre.

Hospitality teaches you how to listen, understand people quickly and solve problems under pressure.

Pacific Centre Director Karolina Ferenc explains the focus of the business:

"It is our privilege to work with some of the biggest and best businesses in the Whitsunday region. To strengthen those relationships even further, we appointed Christian to focus on building closer connections with the local business community."

Regional Australia continues to face labour shortages, and industries such as hospitality, tourism and services often rely on international students, backpackers and overseas professionals to fill critical roles.

However, businesses that want to sponsor workers quickly discover that the process can be complex, highly regulated and time-consuming.

Our role is to help guide them through that system.

Migration is an area where the smallest details can make a significant difference, which is why our team works closely together. My role is often the first point of contact with businesses, while our migration specialist and director Piotr brings extensive legal expertise and experience navigating Australia’s migration framework.

One of the things that makes this work particularly meaningful is the impact it has on both sides.

A business gains the staff it needs to grow, and a worker gains the opportunity to build a life in Australia.

At Pacific Centre, we believe migration works best when it strengthens local communities — and that starts with supporting the businesses that drive those communities forward.

If you want to know more about us, you are more than welcome to go to our website www.visatoaustralia.net.au

Captions

Christian helps people navigate Australia’s complex migration system, supporting people looking for work whilst providing businesses with stronger employment opportunities.

Photo sourced

‍

When you bank with Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine, you’re doing more than managing your money – you’re helping build a stronger Whitsundays.

Community Banks offer the best of both worlds: the products, technology and security of a major bank, combined with the personalised service and local investment of a community-owned model.

The difference is simple – profits don’t leave town. Instead, they’re reinvested into local schools, sporting clubs, events, and community initiatives, creating a cycle of support that benefits everyone.

Established in June 2012, the Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine branch was made possible by local shareholders who raised $800,000 to bring a bank to the region. That effort began in 2009, when a passionate group of locals rallied community support through public meetings, newsletters, and grassroots campaigning.

“Our success is based on our profit-with-purpose model, which sees a percentage of profits invested back into the community,” said Chairman Mark Henry. “Our customers and the Whitsundays community are the real winners.”

Over the past eight years, the branch has invested more than $250,000 into local schools, social programs, sporting groups, arts and cultural events, and conservation initiatives.

Locals will also recognise the Community Bank’s popular BBQ trailer, which is regularly seen at community and sporting events across the region. Fully equipped with cooking facilities, marquees and a PA system, the trailer is available for community groups to use as part of the bank’s ongoing support.

Led by Branch Manager Amanda Anderson, the Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine team offers a full suite of personal, business and wealth banking services, delivered face-to-face by people who understand local needs. Customers can access everything from home loans and everyday accounts to agribusiness lending, equipment finance and financial advice.

The branch also supports local businesses through dedicated expertise, with Senior Business Relationship Manager Luke Sheppard regularly visiting the region to work directly with business owners.

Sponsorship applications are now open for local not-for-profit organisations, with funding and Community Trailer bookings available. Applications are competitive, so groups are encouraged to apply early.

For more information, visit the branch at Whitsunday Plaza Cannonvale or contact secretary@whitsundaycel.com.au.

Your town. Your bank.

Located: Whitsunday Plaza Cannonvale
Call: (07) 4948 3599
Email: cannonvale&proserpinemailbox@bendigoadelaide.com.au

‍

The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry is pleased to announce that the 2026 Whitsunday Business Conference will be held on Thursday 27 August, across Club Whitsunday and PCYC Whitsunday in Airlie Beach.

Following the success of last year’s sold-out event, the Conference will once again bring together business leaders, industry experts, government representatives, and professional service providers for a day of practical insights, fresh ideas, and meaningful conversations about the future of business in the region.

Call for Speakers Now Open

The Chamber’s Conference Committee is currently designing a dynamic and engaging program featuring keynote presentations, interactive workshops, and thought-provoking panel discussions.

Expressions of Interest are now open for speakers and workshop facilitators who can deliver practical, relevant sessions that help businesses navigate challenges, seize new opportunities, and work smarter.

The Committee is particularly interested in presentations that showcase real-world examples of innovation, including the use of technology and artificial intelligence to improve efficiency, enhance decision-making, and drive business growth.

Whitsundays Chamber President Allan Milostic said the Conference continues to grow as a key platform for the region’s business community.

“The Whitsunday Business Conference has quickly become a flagship event for our region, bringing together businesses to share ideas, build connections, and focus on practical outcomes. We’re excited to build on this momentum in 2026 and continue supporting our business community to grow and thrive.”

Conference Committee Chair and Chamber Vice President Jannah Baker said the locally driven approach remains central to the program’s success.

“We’re proud to design a program that reflects the real needs of local businesses. By opening expressions of interest for speakers, we’re inviting our community to be part of shaping the conversation – ensuring sessions are relevant, practical, and grounded in real-world experience.”

Submitting an Expression of Interest is quick and easy, requiring only a short response to a series of key questions.

Those interested in contributing to the 2026 Conference are encouraged to apply and be part of shaping this important annual event for the Whitsunday business community.

Conference Themes

Do you have a presentation or workshop idea that aligns with one of the themes below?

• The Future Workforce – Hiring, keeping, and motivating great people.
  The Numbers That Matter – Pricing, profit, and cashflow in the real world.
• Your Brand in Action – Digital marketing, social media, and standing out online.
• Future-Ready Business – Systems, tools, automation, and AI.
• When Things Go Wrong – Respond, recover, and build stronger for what’s next.

Other Ways to Get Involved

Not up for presenting? There are still plenty of ways to be part of the conference.

Businesses can provide a special conference offer or contribute a prize or giveaway.

A detailed sponsorship prospectus will be released soon, highlighting additional opportunities to partner and be part of the 2026 Conference.

Express Your Interest Now!

Please complete the Expression of Interest form below by  5:00pm Friday 17 April 2026: https://www.whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au/2026-whitsunday-business-conference-eoi/

Conference Details

What: The 2026 Whitsunday Business Conference
When: Thursday 27 August 2026
Where: Club Whitsunday and PCYC Whitsunday, Airlie Beach
Registrations open in May.

Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry

‍

On Friday 27^th March, the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network hosted its monthly barbeque in Cannonvale, bringing people together to raise awareness of a vital issue. President Matt Stokes hosted the event, signifying the importance of transparency and communicating with others when we feel down.

The morning featured two guest speakers, Jai and Sophie from Dynamic Chiropractors. They spoke of the difficulties of work-place injuries, highlighting how chronic pain can contribute to isolation and dark thoughts – demonstrating the necessity to communicate with others in times of great need.

These breakfasts are part of a crucial ongoing initiative which seeks to bring community awareness and ensures that no one has to suffer alone.

What: Next WSPN BBQ
Where: ShirtFront Solutions, Macarthur Drive, Cannonvale
When: Friday 24th April, 6:30am

Captions

1 – All are welcomed to attend the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network monthly barbeques on the last Friday of every month.  
2 – The event focused on the importance of transparency and communicating with others when we feel down.

3- Guest speakers, Jai and Sophie from Dynamic Chiropractors spoke highlighted how chronic pain can contribute to isolation. Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi

Whitsunday Prosocial Support Services have been supporting tourism within our region by providing care and support for Airlie Beach holidayers with additional needs.

“Our commitment to providing accessible tourism in the Whitsundays continues to flourish as our latest guest from interstate joined us for their holidays.” They shared.

“You may have seen our recent collaboration with Whitsunday Tourism where our amazing participants and team showed off to Australia and the world how easy it is to have a holiday in Airlie Beach with the right support team in place.

“We are excited to say we have facilitated many independent travellers and families visiting the Whitsunday Islands, Whitehaven Beach and Great Barrier Reef as well as providing quality daily living and respite supports at hotels across the region.”

The latest visitors, siblings Master and Miss, enjoyed two wonderful days at the lagoon with their WPSS Support team, Mile, Zak, Millie and Carly.

“This was a return visit for the family and their third time being supported by our team during their holidays. We were thrilled to have the family join us again.” Whitsunday Prosocial shared.

Through this ongoing work, the team at Whitsunday Prosocial Support Services are not only supporting individual visitors but also strengthening Airlie Beach’s reputation as a welcoming and accessible destination for all.

1,2 - Recent interstate visitors Airlie Beach, Master and his family, were supported by Whitsunday Prosocial Support with informed, professional care. Photo source: Facebook

‍

The Bowen community have shown their gratitude to the local men’s shed for their incredible generosity and craftmanship. They recently donated a portable puzzle board and puzzle drawer to selectability – the local mental health service provider.

The donation is already making a huge difference, allowing participants to transport puzzles without destroying them. With the portable puzzle drawer, the puzzles can be moved to different events and activities within the hub, maintain progress and preventing puzzle pieces from getting lost.

It is wonderful to see community support for those in need – donations like these may seem small, but ultimately, they can make a world of difference to someone.

Captions

Photo source: Facebook

‍

A family in Bowen have been left saddened by the removal of flowers from a loved one’s grave in Bowen cemetery and are calling out for any information as to the culprit. The grave of Gregory Ronald Edward Roisster, who passed away at just 3 years old in 1964, featured artificial blue flowers in a vase to honour his memory. The flowers and vase were taken and replaced with yellow ones. This is reportedly the second time the flowers have been tampered with.

On March 28, older sibling Donna Rossiter took to Facebook to condemn the person who had committed the act.

“If you could please leave his grave alone and let this little boy rest in peace our family will be pleased.”

Community members took to the comments to show their support. Many criticised the act for its indecency and cruelty, whilst others put forward theories as to how the flowers could have been mistakenly or purposefully switched.

If you know anything – don’t hesitate to get in contact with the relevant authorities.

Captions

The blue flowers and vase were taken and replaced with yellow flowers.

Photo source: Facebook

St Patrick’s College Reef Guardian volunteers took part in a Clean Up Australia event at North Wall Beach this week, helping remove rubbish and protect the coastline. Students and staff dedicated their time to making a positive impact on the local environment.

A representative from St Patrick's College Year 7-12 Mackay said, “Thank you to the students and staff who gave their time to make a difference.”

Photo source: St Patrick's College Year 7-12 Mackay

‍

FEDERAL Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, has welcomed the Government’s decision to halve the fuel excise for three months; a move he describes as a hard-won victory for the Australian people and a direct result of the Coalition’s relentless pursuit of a "fair go" for motorists.

The announcement, which will see 26 cents per litre wiped from the price of petrol and diesel, follows intense pressure from the Liberal and National parties. Mr Willcox said this outcome proves what can be achieved when a strong Opposition holds a detached Government to account.

"We have heard you loud and clear.

“My office has been flooded with emails, my Facebook page has been filled with your comments, and I have seen the stress on the faces of families at the bowser across Dawson," Mr Willcox said.

Mr Willcox said that for too long, the Labor Government ignored the reality of the bruising bowser, telling families to buy sixty-thousand-dollar electric cars while they were struggling to afford the drive to work.

“Today, the Coalition has turned the tide; trading the Prime Minister's lectures for actual action at the pump,” he said.

Mr Willcox noted that while the excise cut provides much-needed breathing space, the battle is not over. He emphasised that the current crisis is a dual challenge of both price and supply, and the Coalition remains focused on long-term energy security for the regions.

The Member for Dawson also issued a stern warning to fuel retailers and oil companies regarding the implementation of the tax cut.

"We remember what happened during the COVID-era excise reduction; the relief was not always fully passed on to the consumer. We cannot allow that to happen again. The task now is to ensure this 26-cent saving is felt immediately at the pumps.

“Labor must ensure the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) is watching these companies like a hawk. There is no excuse for these savings to be pocketed by big corporations instead of reaching the pockets of our farmers, our small businesses, and our families."

The three-month excise reduction is expected to provide significant relief to the transport and agricultural sectors in North Queensland, where the tyranny of distance makes fuel a non-negotiable cost of living.

"This is a win for common sense,” Mr Willcox said.

“We have forced a shift from ideology back to reality, and the Coalition will continue to fight to ensure that every cent of this tax cut reaches the people who actually keep this country moving."

Contributed with thanks to the office of Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP

Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox welcomes the 26-cent fuel excise cut, a direct result of strong Coalition pressure. Photo supplied

‍

Mackay is mourning the loss of a young life after tragedy struck Glenella on the evening of 24th March. Eighteen-year-old Bucasia woman Mia Ryan passed away following a serious traffic crash at the intersection of Glenella Richmond Road and Holts Road, leaving family, friends, and her local dance community heartbroken.

Mia, the driver of a Nissan Micra, was initially transported to Mackay Base Hospital in critical condition but sadly passed away the following day. The driver of the other vehicle, a 53-year-old Andergrove woman in a Nissan Navara, was treated for minor injuries. Police and the Forensic Crash Unit are investigating the circumstances and have urged anyone who witnessed the crash or has footage to come forward.

Mia was a cherished member of the Centre Stage Dance Company. The studio shared heartfelt memories of her, saying, “Mia will always be a much-loved member of our Centre Stage family. She was always happy and always ready for fun but was also so caring and admired by so many of the dancers that she worked with as an assistant teacher on Tuesdays and Thursdays.”

Having graduated from Centre Stage in 2025 after 15 years of dancing, Mia had been keen to return to the studio on some Thursdays this year.

“Mia will be missed more than words can express by her Senior team, the dancers she assisted and by her teachers. Mia loved the studio and we loved her,” the dance school commented.

Mackay Life extends our deepest condolences to all affected by the loss of this beautiful young soul.

Photo source: Centre Stage Dance Company

‍

Donations raised at Life Publishing Group’s sold-out Enchanted Garden fundraiser in October 2025 are currently being distributed, with a total of $56,000 shared among seven charities doing vital work across North Queensland.

This week, a cheque for $8,000 was presented to Jacquie Camilleri, founding director at the Trudy Crowley Foundation.

The Trudy Crowley Foundation is a Mackay-based charity providing vital support to individuals and families affected by cancer, with a strong focus on ovarian cancer awareness.

Established in 2018 in memory of local woman Trudy Crowley, the organisation is dedicated to ensuring no one faces cancer alone. Through its community centre, the foundation offers free services including access to specialist cancer nurses, counselling, support groups, and practical resources such as a wig library.

By delivering holistic care and raising awareness, the foundation continues to play a significant role in supporting the health and wellbeing of the Mackay and Whitsundays community.

Jacquie explained that the foundation is currently planning a new facility, and that this donation would go toward that effort.

“We are trying to save desperately for our palliative care unit, and we have quite a lot of money in the bank,” she explained.

“We're trying to buy some land, so then we can go to the governments, federal and state, and try and get grants from them to actually help build the building. We have now just got our project board in place.”

The palliative care unit will be built with care, run on the foundation’s principal that no patient suffering with cancer, or person in their life, should feel alone.

“Trudy's dream has now become our vision, and our vision is going to become a reality,” Jacquie said.  

“It'll be an eight bedroom facility with one room designated for children.

“That's a hard thing to talk about, but it's a reality of life; we would love to get what they used to call a cold cot. They're now called cuddle cots, for the little ones that pass, so the parents can spend time with them... We're going to have a chapel, and we'd like to build a doctor's house so we can actually have the doctor on site.”

These big plans are on track to become a reality; thanks in part to those who donated to support this impactful organisation, on track to change end-of-life care in our region.

‍

After heavy analysis, Net World Sports has named Mackay’s Marina Run the third best half-marathon in Australia for elite runners.

The outfit analysed 75 of the country’s most prominent races based on how technical, environmental, and logistical features align with different runner experience levels, with Mackay Marina Run cinching bronze behind second place winner, Tasmania’s Point to Pinnacle and number one The McGrath Launceston Running Festival, also in Tasmania.

“It successfully delivers a balance of performance and atmosphere, combining competitive pacing opportunities with strong crowd energy that helps runners push through the later stages of the race.” Net World Sports reports.

“The event scores below average for course difficulty (17.8/100). The total elevation gain is 155 metres; there are 15 sharp turns and 15 straight sections that exceed 400 metres.

“Race day conditions are also moderate. There are mild average temperatures (19.6°C) and good air quality (AQI 25), meaning runners can push their pace without overheating- even though humidity sits high at 73%.

“Participant feedback is very positive, driven by a sentiment polarity of 0.9, a scenery score of 10/10, a crowd support score of 9/10, and an expert suitability rating of 8/10. Together, these contribute to a Sentiment and Review Score of 92.2/100.”

Contributed with thanks to Net World Sports

1- Popular Mackay half-marathon ranked 3^rd in Australia. Photo supplied.

‍

Mackay local author Khloe Ann explores the balance of darkness and light beyond the human eye, weaving fantasy with spirituality, culture, and authentic Aussie roots in her debut novel, Proskynima.

The fiction tale intertwines the mystery of Greek mythology with a foundation of Christian values, as characters navigate physical life while confronting deeper spiritual elements of light and darkness. At the centre of the story is Athena, a young woman faced with choices that test both faith and identity.

Khloe Ann is a quiet achiever, humble in her ways yet wonderfully creative, and that sincerity carries through the pages of her debut novel.

Remarkably, the journey into writing only began recently.

“I only started writing last year,” she said.

What followed surprised even her.

“Before I knew it, there was 70,000 words on a manuscript, and I was like, wow, where’d that come from?”

Khloe explained that the characters seemed to develop naturally as the story unfolded. Drawing inspiration from her faith, she said the story reflects the balance between good and evil that many people experience in their own lives.

“There was no inspiration really other than just my own Christian walk,” she said.

To build the world within the novel, Khloe undertook extensive research, particularly into the rich history of Greek mythology.

“I did a lot of research and I fell in love with the town and the city I wrote about,” she said.

After just one year of stepping into the writing world, Khloe has already attracted interest within the industry, with publishers expressing enthusiasm about her work and future manuscripts.

A former healthcare worker at Mackay Hospital, she now balances writing with family and community life, embracing the unexpected path storytelling has opened. An active member of Australian writing groups, including the Queensland Women’s Writing and Queensland Writing Centre, her short stories and charitable entries, such as The Last Plastic Fork, have gained international attention.

Despite the growing momentum, Khloe remains humble and grounded.

“I’m so thankful for the support of the readers, and my family and friends.”

She hopes the story will resonate with a wide range of readers, particularly those interested in faith-based themes blended with imaginative storytelling.

And for readers who enjoy the first edition, she is already working on a sequel.

“I’m hoping to have a manuscript by the end of the year,” she said. “It will become a series… so stay tuned!”

Her advice to other aspiring writers is simply to, “Just start writing – put the words on page first – then edit.”

“I’m not aiming to be big. I’m not aiming to be great. I just want to write, and I want to connect with people – that’s why I started this journey.”

She hopes to connect with audiences at her meet-and-greet / book signing event in Airlie Beach on April 11, from 10am to 2pm, at the Beach Book Boutique. Fans and new readers alike are invited to meet Khloe, ask questions, and pick up a signed copy of Proskynima.

For more information or to purchase a copy, visit www.khloeann.com.au or follow @writtenbykhloeann. The Last Plastic Fork is also available at www.habitatpress.com.

‍

Council has launched Amplify Mackay, a new initiative designed to strengthen the impact of events across the region.

The initiative aims to connect events, businesses and the wider community in creative and collaborative ways.

Economic Development and Growth Strategic Advisory Committee (EDGSAC) Co-chair Cr Nathenea MacRae said events played a vital role in driving economic activity and creating vibrancy across Mackay.

“When events come to Mackay, they don’t just fill a calendar – they fill our accommodation, our cafes, our restaurants and our local businesses,” Cr MacRae said.

“They create energy, connection and opportunity right across our community,” she said.

“Amplify Mackay is about growing and marketing those flow-on opportunities.

“Businesses can jump on Mackay Events, click the Amplify Mackay link and then submit an offer.

“Offers can be things like themed menus, eyecatching displays, limitedtime specials or exclusive experiences that tie in with one of the up-coming event periods.

“Your activation will then be listed on the Amplify Mackay page on the Mackay Events website, boosting your visibility and further adding to the buzz around Mackay’s big drawcard events.”

Cr MacRae said the themed event periods created opportunities for local businesses to get involved in new and creative ways while tapping into the larger promotion around drawcard events coming to the region.

“Amplify Mackay is about more than just events,” she said.

“It’s about collaboration. It’s about creating a vibrant, connected community where businesses, organisers and residents all have the opportunity to be involved and benefit.

“During the May event period, for example, Mackay will come alive with major sporting and music events, attracting more than 12,500 people to the region, including 6500 visitors from outside the area.

“Now’s the time for businesses to start brainstorming how they can capitalise on huge drawcard events like Legends on the Lawn and the NQ Games.”

EDGSAC Co-chair Cr Belinda Hassan said council had already seen strong success through the Mackay Events Calendar (Mackayevents.com.au), which had become a central platform for locals and visitors to discover what was happening across the region.

“Building on that success, we’ve now taken the next step with the launch of two new initiatives designed to further support our events sector and local economy,” Cr Hassan said.

“The first is Amplify Mackay, and the second is the Event Organiser Marketing Toolkit, a practical resource developed to help event organisers and businesses better promote their events and reach wider audiences," she said.

“The toolkit provides practical resources, branding assets, marketing guidance and readytouse materials to help grow and promote successful events.”

Now is the time for local businesses and the community to explore how they could best use the resources and offerings available on the Mackay Events website to capitalise on Mackay’s booming event economy.

For more information about Amplify Mackay, the Event Organiser Marketing Toolkit or upcoming events and initiatives, visit mackayevents.com.au

‍

49 year-old Matthew Brand was sadly located deceased on Wednesday 25th March following a three-day search across Finch Hatton and Pioneer Valley bushland.

Matthew was reported missing from Finch Hatton on Saturday 21 March, and appeals were made to the community for any information.

The search was begun soon after disappearance, with the Police and family reporting concerns for Matthew’s welfare, stating “his disappearance is out of character and [he] suffers from a medical condition which may cause confusion.”

Searches were being conducted across rough terrain in the Pioneer Valley when Matthew’s body was discovered by an SES volunteer, before midday on the Saturday.

An ex-army veteran, Matthew served in Afghanistan and Timor. His family have described him as “Loyal and funny… A man full of life, ready to tackle any adventure.”

Information surrounding the cause of death has not been revealed.

Following the search, family member Shona Brand, shared: “Thank you to all of those involved in his search. We appreciate everything you have done in giving us answers even though they weren’t the ones we were had hoped for. Your work is truly amazing and Matthew would be grateful.”

The community will be sending condolences to Matthew’s loved ones.

1 – Army Veteran Matthew Brand was sadly found deceased following a three-day search.

‍