Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
The list of things I know nothing or very little about is seemingly endless. You could start with the world of science and focus on the periodic table, move through chemistry, physics and biology and you would discover an astounding level of ignorance on my part. If you happened to be day dreaming about the interaction between energy and matter and found yourself in the mood for a casual chat about quantum physics, well I am afraid I am going to let you down … I have very little to offer. It’s similar with mathematics; if you find yourself sitting at the pub hoping to strike up a conversation with someone about algebraic equations and the infrastructure of calculus then you’d better hope it’s not me sitting at the next table. I could go on … engineering and mechanical principles, for example, but it’s starting to become humiliating and I think you get the idea. The point is that in the world of befuddled ignorance in which I stumble around seemingly aimlessly, the one thing I’m pretty good at is the English language. You’ve got to have a grasp of something and I’m not too bad at words. So, it’s not often someone drops in a word that I don’t know, have never heard before. I’ve got a mate who grew up in the tough streets of South Mackay but who now lives in a very leafy, affluent part of Mount Pleasant. You’d call it a blue chip address. He’s a good bloke and every now and then I am with him when he happens to venture south of the river and graces a suburban pub or club. It’s like the prodigal son returning to his roots. All these people who haven’t seen him in decades can’t believe he’s turned up at Souths Suburban Bowls Club, or wherever it is, and they are wrapped to see him. “Mate, how have ya been?” They say. My mate might not love the fact that his old school friend is wearing a fishing shirt in the bistro but he’s always very happy to catch up. Anyway, I was chatting to my Mt Pleasant mate recently and the conversation turned to urban development in Mackay. As we discussed new and planned residential developments in Mackay he made reference to “conurbation”. It was a conversation stopper. I found myself having to ask him what the word meant. He explained that conurbation refers to a phenomenon where cities or large towns end up merging into one larger entity because of population growth and physical expansion. He was making the point that while it might not meet the strict definition, the concept of conurbation was taking place in Mackay as various centres merged and “in-filled” the city rather than creating a continuing expansion of the footprint. Rural View and Richmond, for example, are creating a connection with Bucasia and the northern part of Mt Pleasant. Ooralea is expanding south and is creating a connection with Bakers Creek. One day, future generations might see the southern suburbs of Mackay merge with Sarina. That would be true conurbation as two cities merge. Since I have only recently discovered the word, I am no expert on conurbation but it strikes me that connecting residential centres within an established footprint makes financial and geographical sense. It must be easier and cheaper to connect infrastructure within established centres rather than simply expanding the footprint willy nilly and paying the cost that would go along with providing the new services that would be needed. One of the big challenges in Mackay is providing the housing, infrastructure and services that are needed as the population grows. A growing population is created by a strong economy and a quality lifestyle so while we would hope that the growth continues, this needs to be accompanied by road systems, infrastructure and services that meet increased demands. People travelling in from the Northern Beaches every day would probably say that those demands are not being met. That’s despite my Mt Pleasant mate’s theory of conurbation.
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Roy Brunke has joined Blacks Real Estate as a Sales Consultant, bringing decades of experience in commercial print and marketing to the Mackay property industry. Roy recently commenced his new role with the agency and is set to assist clients across the region with the sale of residential and commercial properties. His background in print and marketing is expected to provide valuable insight for vendors looking to effectively present and promote their properties in a competitive market. Blacks Real Estate said Roy’s extensive experience working with businesses and clients throughout his career would be an asset to the team and future clients alike. Operating from offices in Mackay and Dysart, Blacks Real Estate services residential, commercial, rural and industrial clients across the wider region. CAPTION: Roy Brunke has joined Blacks Real Estate as a Sales Consultant. Photo Source: Blacks Real Estate
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Mannie was named after the mangroves he was dumped in at Dolphin Heads. He survived there over many weeks sleeping on a sewerage manhole cover and hiding in the thick mangroves during the day. He was traumatized, scared and so wary of people it took dedicated volunteers well over a month to gain his confidence enough to coax him into care. Mannie is a gentle, affectionate boy who loves being around people and furry friends. He has a very sweet nature forming strong bonds with those he trusts. He can be a little unsure in new situations but is growing in confidence every day. He still needs to build his confidence further through positive experiences. Call 0494723928 or email LLTAGSandDogRescue@gmail.com to arrange a meet and greet with beautiful Mannie. Photo supplied
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St John’s Catholic Primary School, Walkerston recently welcomed families and community members to a vibrant celebration of childhood, learning and community spirit during its annual Under 8’s Day festivities held on Friday, 12 June 2026. The special event brought together Prep to Year 2 students, parents, carers, siblings and members of the parish community to recognise the important role that play-based learning, family engagement and strong community connections play in the early years of education. Throughout the morning, students immersed themselves in a variety of fun and engaging activities designed to spark creativity, imagination and movement. Children enjoyed face painting, arts and crafts, playdough activities, sports games and a popular jumping castle, creating an atmosphere filled with laughter and excitement. A highlight of the celebration was the involvement of local community organisations, which provided interactive experiences and learning opportunities for students. Representatives from Walkerston Fire Department, Walkerston Police, Core Defined Pilates, Play All Day, Walkerston Cricket Club, Country United Football Club and Active Squirtz joined the festivities, giving children the chance to connect with local services and sporting groups in a fun and meaningful way. St John’s Catholic Primary School, which has proudly served the Walkerston community since 1924, places strong value on nurturing young learners through authentic partnerships between school, family and community. The Under 8’s Day celebrations reflected this commitment, showcasing the strength of these relationships and the positive impact they have on students’ development and wellbeing. The morning concluded with a community sausage sizzle, providing families and guests with an opportunity to gather, connect and celebrate the success of the day together. St John’s Catholic Primary School extends its sincere thanks to the many community organisations, volunteers and event sponsors whose generosity and support helped make the celebration possible. The 2026 Under 8’s Day festivities were a resounding success, highlighting the importance of learning through play while celebrating childhood, family engagement and the strong sense of community that makes St John’s such a special place to learn and grow.
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After proving hugely popular last year, the Airlie Beach Ferris Wheel is coming back in 2026 to light up the same location on the Foreshore from May through to November.
The return is prompted by strong community support, following last years trial, with over 80% of locals and visitors surveyed expressing support for the fixture. Feedback said the wheel boosted the atmosphere and Foreshore experience, whilst attracting buzz that supported local businesses and activity.
Standing 35 metres tall, the wheel will once again offer sweeping 360° views of The Whitsundays, from the sparkling Coral Sea to the bustle of the foreshore and some stunning sunsets.
Last year over 40,000 people hopped on board and, according to Tourism Whitsundays, the Wheel even played host to a bit of romance, with at least 17 proposals happening high above the sea.
With fully wheelchair-accessible gondolas, the wheel will be open to all.
Whitsunday Regional Council shared the good news and highlighted that the project will have other hidden benefits:
“As part of its use of public land, a share of profits generated by the wheel will be re-invested back in the Foreshore, helping fund ongoing improvements for the community,” a representative shared.
“This is all part of building a vibrant, welcoming Foreshore that locals are proud of and visitors keep coming back to.”
1 - Airlie Beach Ferris Wheel will return to the foreshore for May-November 2026. Photo credit: Mackay and Whitsunday Life
A community petition is gaining attention, with more than 5000 signatures so far, after eighteen-year-old Bucasia woman Mia Ryan sadly passed away following a traffic crash last month at the intersection of Glenella Richmond Road and Holts Road. Now, locals are urging authorities to consider installing a roundabout to improve safety, with widespread community backing.
Launched by Mackay resident Andrew Collins, the petition seeks to improve safety at the intersection. It states: “This petition is not based on any specific incident findings, but on a shared community concern and a desire to prevent future harm.”
It also highlights that the intersection has become known for “confusion” and “potential danger” for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. Supporters say the current layout is difficult to navigate and can lead to misunderstandings between motorists.
According to the petition, the alignment of the roads creates an unusual driving movement for motorists, and states that drivers travelling straight along Glenella Richmond Road are often required to indicate right and then immediately left to continue forward, which can cause uncertainty for other road users. Residents online have also vocalised that some drivers even cross Holts Road without indicating, contributing to hesitation and misinterpretation at the junction.
Advocates for the proposal argue that roundabouts are a proven road safety measure. The petition references evidence indicating that converting traditional intersections to roundabouts can reduce serious injury crashes by up to 75 per cent by lowering conflict points and improving traffic flow.
Traffic growth is another concern raised by supporters and locals. The petition states that Glenella Richmond Road is increasingly used by motorists seeking to avoid congestion along Mackay Bucasia Road during peak periods and by drivers travelling between the Northern Beaches and the Mackay Ring Road.
While acknowledging that infrastructure upgrades require planning and funding, the petition argues the long-term benefits could improve both safety and traffic efficiency for the growing region.
Community members are now being encouraged to consider the proposal and add their support if they believe changes are needed.
In the wake of this tragedy, residents and local leaders are calling for action, with questions still lingering about whether a roundabout should be installed at the Glenella Richmond Road and Holts Road intersection, and what it will take to ultimately make the crossing safer for everyone.
Please place in circle Headshot - of girl -
The heartbreaking loss of 18-year-old Bucasia woman Mia Ryan in a crash at the Glenella Richmond Road and Holts Road intersection has prompted a community petition calling for improved safety. Photo source: Centre Stage Dance Company
Photo source: Google Maps
Mackay local Tracey Morgan is sharing her story to raise awareness about chronic kidney disease and help others understand that treatment options can allow people to continue living a full and independent life.
Born and raised in Mackay, Tracey says the region has always felt like home, with strong family, friend and community ties.
Her health journey began after routine blood tests revealed abnormalities. Further testing and monitoring eventually led to a life changing diagnosis.
“In February 2024 I was told I have stage five chronic kidney disease,” Tracey said.
“Part of that was through hypertension and genetics because my dad had the same thing as well.”
Tracey watched her father manage treatment at home through peritoneal dialysis, which allowed him to continue working while remaining present for family life.
“Seeing my dad do dialysis at home and still work full time definitely influenced me,” she said.
Tracey had originally planned to manage her kidney disease with home dialysis, preparing through surgeries, training with specialist nurses and learning how to monitor her treatment from home. However, after complications with the catheter used for peritoneal dialysis, she is currently receiving haemodialysis at hospital while completing further testing to join the active kidney transplant list.
While home dialysis remains an option she hopes others will learn more about, Tracey currently attends hospital twice a week for treatment. Despite the challenges, she continues to work full time as a support worker.
“We had a lot of training with the PD nurses and they come out to your house… they make sure you know what you’re doing before you start,” she said.
“At the moment I do dialysis twice a week at the hospital while getting ready to go on the active transplant list.”
With around one in ten Australians living with kidney disease and rates expected to rise significantly in coming years, Tracey hopes sharing her story will encourage greater understanding of the condition and the treatment options available.
“Dialysis should work around your life, not have your life dictated by dialysis,” she said.
She also wants people to understand that kidney disease can affect anyone.
“Chronic kidney disease doesn’t discriminate. People come from all ages, shapes, sizes and walks of life,” she said.
Tracey says awareness and education are key, particularly when it comes to home dialysis options that may help people maintain independence and continue working or spending time with family.
“People assume you lose weight because you’re sick, but people waiting for transplants have to work really hard to be in the best condition possible,” she said.
By speaking openly about her journey, Tracey hopes more people will feel confident asking questions and learning about the support and treatment options available.
“We don’t want pity from people. We just want people to ask questions and understand that it is possible to receive dialysis treatment at home, on your own terms.”
Photo caption: Mackay local Tracey Morgan is raising awareness about chronic kidney disease by sharing her journey with stage five kidney disease while continuing to work and preparing for a transplant, hoping to help others understand their treatment options and maintain independence. Photos supplied
Local member Nigel Dalton has completed his final laps for the annual Laps for Life campaign, using the challenge to raise awareness about youth suicide prevention and the importance of mental health support. Over the month of March, Mr Dalton swam around 20 kilometres and raised nearly $1,000 for ReachOut Australia, helping fund resources aimed at supporting young Australians experiencing mental health struggles. As the community heads into Queensland Youth Week from April 6–12, the campaign highlights the need for open conversations and stronger support networks for young people in Mackay. Local services, including MADEC Australia, continue to play a vital role in connecting young people with help and encouraging them to seek support before reaching crisis point.
Diving Into Action
For Youth Mental Health
Each stroke in the pool is carrying much more than water for Nigel Dalton. With every lap completed during the Laps for Life challenge in March, the Mackay MP is helping create a ripple effect of awareness around youth suicide and mental health, turning kilometres in the pool into meaningful support for young Australians who may be struggling.
Mr Dalton swum 22.95 kilometres, the equivalent of 918 laps, and almost reached his fundraising goal of $1000.
“For the last month I’ve been doing Laps for Life, which is basically swimming a certain distance in the pool and reminding myself that youth suicide is an issue in Queensland and in Mackay, and we need to raise awareness,” he said.
Funds raised through the challenge will support ReachOut Australia.
“The money that I raise will go towards the foundation ReachOut, which helps people reach out and get the information they need about mental health and suicide.”
Mr Dalton said suicide remains a significant issue in Australia.
“It’s awful that we have twice as many people dying in Australia through suicide than we do on the roads.”
Drawing on his background in policing, he said the issue has long been close to his heart.
“It was very much part of my policing career, working in the youth suicide space, and I wanted to make sure I carried that on while being an MP.”
He said exercise can also play a positive role in mental wellbeing.
“Sometimes I get in the pool even when I don’t feel like training because it removes anxiety and stress. It’s also a great way to decompress.”
Mr Dalton said the challenge is also about encouraging young people to seek help.
“Moving into Youth Week in April, it’s important to remind young people that they can seek help.”
Chief Executive Officer of MADEC, Jasmine Lowry, said the organisation was proud to support the initiative.
“As a youth service provider in the region, we’re really passionate about youth mental health and making sure people have access to the services they need,” she said.
Ms Lowry said demand for youth support services remains high.
“We’re seeing a lot of young people reach out in crisis and struggling to access the mental health supports that they need.”
She emphasised that mental health challenges can affect anyone.
“Mental health affects everyone. It doesn’t matter about your background or social standing.”
Ms Lowry also encouraged young people and families to seek support when needed.
“It’s really important to reach out and just have the conversation.”
Nigel Dalton is raising awareness for youth mental health through the Laps for Life challenge, while Jasmine Lowry says supporting young people and ensuring access to mental health services remains a key priority for MADEC. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
The waters off the Whitsundays came alive over Easter as top local sailors hit the waves for the thrilling Sail Airlie 2026 regatta.
Hosted by the Whitsunday Sailing Club, the four-day event (April 3–6) brought together competitors of all ages and skill levels for fast-paced racing and community fun.
From high-speed catamarans and classic ‘off the beach’ dinghies to windsurfers and the ever-popular Green Fleet, the regatta showcased the region’s best and brightest on the water and delivered plenty of action for spectators along the shore.
Sail Airlie Features Whitsunday’s Best And Brightest
Over the Easter period, some of the Whitsundays’ finest sailors came together for the ‘Sail Airlie 2026’ regatta. The event welcomed all classes of ‘Off the Beach’ dinghies and catamarans, including windsurfers and a dedicated ‘Green Fleet’ for emerging sailors. Between 3 and 6 April, competitors of all ages and backgrounds took to the water for a series of thrilling races, organised by the Whitsunday Sailing Club at their scenic local venue.
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Photo credit: Stallion Studios Photography
The Whitsunday Game Fish Club (WGFC), together with its junior arm “Reefies,” is set to host its popular Sweeties & Squires Ladies and Kids Fun Fishing Weekend — a celebration of family, fishing, and fun on the water.
Festivities begin on Thursday, April 9, with registration and briefing from 4 pm at the club. The afternoon opens with an important presentation from Maritime Safety Queensland, followed by a weekend overview, registration, pizza, and family activities.
Fishing will take place at anglers’ leisure from Saturday morning (April 11) through to lines out at 2 pm on Sunday, April 12. The final weigh-in will be held at 3 pm Sunday, with fish either weighed or measured. Photos of released catches are encouraged and will count toward results. All Queensland size and bag limits apply, and fishing is restricted to rod and reel only.
Sunday afternoon will feature presentations and a wide range of prizes awarded on merit — not just size or quantity — ensuring everyone has a chance to win. Highlights include a mystery prize, lucky door prize, raffles, fun activities, great food, and a prize for the best-dressed team.
The event is free for WGFC members, with memberships available at the briefing. WGFC and Reefies are also official Play On providers, offering sports vouchers for juniors aged 5–17, covering membership and event entry through to July 2027.
What: Sweeties & Squires Ladies and Kids Fun Fishing Weekend
When: April 9th–12th (briefing April 9th from 4pm; fishing April 11th–12th)
Where: Whitsunday Game Fish Club, Altmann Avenue, Cannonvale
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Photo source: Facebook
Gentle, sensitive, and incredibly loyal — Maisie is a beautiful girl who just needs the right home to help her continue building confidence.
• Age: Approx. 2–3 years
• Breed: Dalmatian x
• Sex: Female
• Size: Approx. 25kg
• Energy Level: Medium
Good With:
Personality:
Ideal Home:
Health:
Adoption Fee: $400
To apply, please message us Bowen Collinsville Pet Resuce Inc.
Immediately prior to 1930, Long Island was held by Mrs Frances Altmann under a special lease but following her death in 1930, the island was subdivided into three sections and offered for sale. The central section (240 acres) was bought by William Lewis Grant who eventually sold it in 1935 to Mr Timothy Croft.
The following is an extract from “The Queensland Annual” (November 6 1934)
On the western boundary of glorious Whitsunday Passage is a dot on the map which close at hand becomes an island five miles long running almost due north and south, separated from the coast by a stretch of water about a mile wide for the most part and as calm as broad river – Long Island and its Sound. Early in October 1931, a steamer called at the island, and from it disembarked W.L. Grant and the folk he had chosen to help him. A motor launch, a flattie, building materials, tools and provisions were unloaded also, and the steamer went on her way.
Grant often smiles now when he looks back on the seriousness with which he tackled the problems of those few first weeks. He had got himself a long lease of a rich scrub area on Clear View Bay, and now faced the job of building an island home. In those first few months, he lived some of the chapters of the Swiss Family Robinson. They chopped a clearing in the scrub; built a temporary shack; planted paw paws, tomatoes and vegetables and they started to grow prolifically. Grant decided that was one department that would run itself.
But he was no vegetarian, and days of more hand blistering and muscle wearying toil followed in the scrub, as young saplings were cut and hauled to the beach. They were to be part of the fish-trap and had to be sturdy to carry the heavy gauge wire netting. “It’s a lot of work and expense,” Mr. Grant says, “but a trap is a good investment, for we have had plenty of fish of great variety, and we always keep a stack of smoked fish which is our standby when spring tides prevent our getting fish.”
Days slid into weeks, weeks into months. Each day had its problems, each its discoveries, each its triumphs. The man whose life had been lived at the grueling pace set by modern business slowed his gait.
The pocket handkerchief of a clearing expanded to a green tablecloth upon which stood all manner of trees and scrubs and vines – bananas, custard apples, figs, mulberries, jackfruit, pomegranates, avocados, Queensland nuts, lychee nuts and citrus; sweet and English potatoes and a dozen other vegetables, maize and kaffir corn. Another clearing was made, and netted, a thatched shelter was built, and one day from opened crates two score Leghorns and Orrington emerged.
In the beginning, all effort had to be concentrated on food and shelter, but once assured, attention was turned to flowers. The story of the orchard was repeated and Clear View Bay became Clear View Gardens. Roses, hardy annuals, ferns, coleus, hibiscus, frangipani, aralia, asparagus, poincianas, crotons, regia, bougainvillea and scores of others flourished side by side.
In time, the island home began to pay its way as cultivated acres yielded ever increasing surpluses which the coast would buy. The idealist in W.L. Grant was strong enough to sever the bonds of humdrum life – the businessman in him organised his own romance. Some of that camping party on Nor-West Island had shaken their heads in doubt, but Grant knew that it could be done – and he did it!
Story sourced from “The Queensland Annual” (November 6 1934) and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum Society.
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Sophia Cross of Shute Harbour Marina Sales is bringing energy, expertise and a genuine passion for the region to the Whitsundays property market. Originally from Perth, Sophia and her family relocated from New Zealand, where they managed a large-scale sheep and beef farm, to embrace the tropical lifestyle and opportunities of the Whitsundays. Alongside her two energetic young boys, she has quickly immersed herself in the local community.
Before entering real estate, Sophia built a strong professional foundation in civil and structural drafting and electrical estimating. Her experience spans a range of projects in Perth, from smaller developments through to major landmarks such as Fiona Stanley Hospital and Perth Arena. This technical background has given her a keen eye for detail and a solid understanding of construction and development.
In early 2020, Sophia made the move into real estate and hasn’t looked back. Combining her engineering knowledge with her growing industry experience, she has found her niche in project sales, playing a key role in the Shute Harbour Marina Resort development. The position has proven to be a natural fit, allowing her to guide clients with confidence and insight.
Sophia is passionate about contributing to the continued growth and revitalisation of the Whitsundays. She is committed to delivering the high level of service the Taylors name is known for, while helping both locals and newcomers find their place in this vibrant coastal community.
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Photo sourced
In case you missed it, there are currently a number of incredibly exciting writing competitions seeking enthusiastic writers across the region. The Whitsunday Writers Festival is hosting competitions in both poetry and prose with cash prizes up for grabs. Here is the list of competitions you should know about.
Flash Fiction Competition
The flash fiction competition tests writing in highly controlled circumstances. Writers are encouraged to craft an original story of no more than 250 words with the prompt: Something unexpected washed ashore on Whitehaven Beach.
The competition is open and will close at 11:59pm April 3rd. Entries must be submitted online via the Whitsundays Writers Festival website. The winning writer will receive a $100 cash prize along with a free day pass to the 2026 Whitsundays Writers Festival.
Stanza Bonanza
Writers are encouraged to submit to an original poem of up to 20 lines, inspired by the prompt: A Whitsundays postcard from 100 years ago, or 100 years from now.
The poet will receive a $100 cash prize along with a free day pass to the 2026 Whitsundays Writers Festival.
This competition closes at 11:59pm, April 3rd. Entries must be submitted online via the festival website.
Short Story Competition
This competition is being run as part of the Whitsunday Literary Heart Awards. It contains both an open age and Under 18 Division for original fiction of up to 3,000 words. The first prize is $1000 and the runner up will receive $500.
Submissions close Friday 17 July 2026 and $20 entry applies. See the website for more details.
The winners will be announced at the Writers Festival on 13 September at the Whitsunday Marine Club in Airlie Beach.
Poetry Prize
This competition is also run as part of the Whitsunday Literary Heart Awards. This competition is open to all for poems of any form, topic and length. The first prize is $1000 and the runner up will receive $500.
The winners will be announced at the Writers Festival in September.
For all competitions, the organisers have made it clear that the submission must be the writer’s own work. There will be AI usage checks in place to ensure integrity across all submissions.
Festival Director and author of nine novels Richard Evans, says the competition is designed not only to discover new voices, but to also celebrate the enduring role of storytelling in shaping community and culture.
“Stories connect us. They challenge us, entertain us, and help us understand the world around us. The Heart Awards are about encouraging writers of all ages to put their imagination on the page and share it with an audience”, he said.
The festival organisers have presented some wonderful opportunities to showcase the best writing talent across the region. Don’t be shy – you could be the next literary hero of the Whitsundays.
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Photo source: Shutterstock
Ingredients:
Cinnamon Sugar Syrup:
Instructions:
Spice up your Easter weekend with this warm, lightly sweet, and refreshing cocktail perfect for poolside evenings! The cinnamon sugar syrup adds a comforting, baked-goods taste reminiscent of hot cross buns – with no baking required.
The Whitsunday Sailing Club was thrilled to host this year’s Simon & George Industry Dinner event - an invitation-only industry gathering held just once a year, bringing together chefs, restaurateurs, and hospitality managers from across the region.
While the event naturally brings industry professionals together, it’s also a chance to showcase what a venue can truly deliver - from food and service through to the overall guest experience, while sparking fresh ideas and inspiration across the hospitality community.
Set across the Club’s terrace and balcony, the evening made full use of the venue’s best assets. Guests were welcomed with Mumm Champagne and Aperol Spritz as canapés circulated, before flowing into a relaxed shared dining experience overlooking the water. It was a great example of how a coastal venue can offer something elevated without losing that easy-going, Whitsundays feel.
Chef Rick and his team delivered a menu that reflected exactly that - refined yet approachable, with a strong focus on quality, mostly local produce, and confident execution. Highlights included fresh oysters and standout seafood elements like Hiromasa kingfish, cold-smoked octopus and cuttlefish, alongside generous shared mains such as Cape Grim eye fillet and hibachi-grilled reef fish, all rounded out with clean, well-balanced desserts. The approach was simple: let great ingredients and attention to detail do the work.
For the Whitsunday Sailing Club, hosting the event was both a privilege and an exciting opportunity to showcase the direction the venue is heading. It also gave the team a chance to step into a more premium, experience-led style of dining ahead of the launch of their monthly Supper Club starting in May - an exclusive, ticketed event that will build on the ideas presented during the evening.
The best part for locals is that elements of the menu and overall approach are already starting to make their way into the Club’s offering—bringing a more refined dining experience while keeping the favourites everyone knows and loves.
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Photos supplied
On May 19th Whales of the Whitsundays and Whitsunday Marine Conservation will be hosting its Whale Heritage Area Information night, an event that spreads awareness about the whale population in the region.
The protected waters of the Whitsundays have been recognised as critically important mating and birthing ground for the Eastern Australian Humpback Whale. Thanks to the advocacy of the Whales of the Whitsundays program the Whitsunday Region has become a Whale Heritage Listed Area with whales due to arrive within weeks.
The Whitsundays is only the second site to be designated in Australia and first to be designated inside the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. It is also the only site in the world to be in a UNESCO World Heritage Area.
The event will feature special guest speakers from the Great Barrier Reef Marine Authority, who will cover topics such as interesting humpback whale facts, how citizen whale sightings help contribute to science and updates on Whitsundays Whale Protection Area special regulations.
The event will convey what a great privilege it is to live in an area where we are able to sight some of the world’s most magnificent and beautiful creatures.
The event is open to all locals, tourism crew and recreational boaties.
Go to the link to register: https://forms.office.com/r/w5M5p9M4xD .
WHAT: Whales of the Whitsundays – Whale Heritage Information Night
WHEN: 19th May, 6.30pm
WHERE: Whitsunday Sailing Club
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An elderly couple received a surprise gift at the newly opened Aldi in Cannonvale this week, when an anonymous do-gooder left $100 at the register to pay for their groceries.
“My mum rang me crying saying what a difference it made for them this week,” their daughter Claire reported.
“They would like to say thank you and, if you are reading this, how much it meant to both them and myself.”
The community responded with similar appreciation for the secret donor.
“How very wonderful that humanity is alive & well,” Kerry wrote.
“Thank you beautiful humans in our wonderful community.”
Jenni added: “99% of people are genuine, kind and compassionate. Sharing kindness should be natural, but is hard these days. Well done to that kind person. I hope it comes back to you in kind, ten fold.”
Locals’ gratitude went out to those in our community who do good, spread joy, and bring smiles, without expecting anything in return.
A local couple have expressed immense joy and gratitude after winning Set for Life. The lottery winnings mean the couple will receive $20,000 per month for 20 years. They held a mere single division one ticket in draw 3885 and now will be taking home $4.8 million in monthly payments.
Although the couple nearly missed the call, they were ecstatic when they heard the good news.
“Are you kidding me? I’m going to cry”, the wife said.
The couple plan to use their money to support their family, travel and call it a day for work.
It’s a remarkable win that will undoubtedly transform their lives in meaningful ways.
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Photo source: Facebook
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